Mafia King’s Bride

24. Dmitri

TWENTY-FOUR

DMITRI

I sense Viktor Petrov’s arrival before Jakob announces him. His presence carries weight, a formidable energy I’ve rarely encountered. I’ve been anticipating this meeting, curious to see what kind of man Ana’s brother is.

“Let him in,” I command, my voice cool and controlled.

Viktor enters, his stride purposeful and confident. He carries himself with the assurance of a man who’s seen the world and faced its challenges. I find myself reassessing my initial assumptions. This is no mere boy playing at being a protector.

“You’re Dmitri Orlov,” he states, his voice firm and unwavering.

I nod, gesturing to a chair. “And you’re my wife’s brother. Please, sit.”

He takes the seat, his posture relaxed yet alert. Our eyes lock, and I’m met with a gaze as steely and determined as my own. Interesting. Most men falter under my scrutiny, but Viktor holds firm.

I break the silence. “I’m certain you didn’t come here for a social call. “It’s about Ana, yes?”

Viktor nods, his words measured and direct as he expresses his concerns. He speaks of family, loyalty, and protection with a conviction that’s almost admirable. I listen, grudgingly impressed by his composure and clarity of thought.

“You care for her deeply,” I observe, my tone neutral. “That’s commendable. But you should know, Ana is not just a Petrov anymore. She’s an Orlov now, my wife.”

Viktor’s eyes narrow. “And that’s supposed to reassure me? Your reputation precedes you, Orlov. I need to know she’s safe and happy.”

I lean forward, matching his intensity. “Then perhaps you should see for yourself. Ana invited you to stay with us, did she not?”

A flicker of surprise crosses his face, quickly replaced by determination. “Yes, she did. And I think I’ll take her up on that offer.”

I nod, a small smile playing at my lips. “Good. You’re welcome in our home. See how Ana lives now, judge for yourself.”

As Viktor leaves, I find myself reassessing the situation. He’s not the naive idealist I expected, but a worthy adversary—or potential ally. Either way, his presence adds an intriguing element to the game.

I watch Ana greet her brother with unbridled joy, a rare display of emotion in this house. Viktor’s presence brings a light to her eyes I’ve rarely seen. It’s intriguing.

“Her half-brother?” Yelena asks, her tone laced with curiosity.

“Yes,” I confirm, my eyes never leaving the pair.

Yelena’s gaze sharpens. “And you’re okay with this?”

I turn to her, my expression carefully neutral. “He’s Ana’s family. Why wouldn’t I be?”

She scoffs, seeing right through me as always. “You’re playing host because of Ana, but we both know you’re keeping your guard up.”

I allow a small smirk. “Nothing escapes you, does it?”

“Not when it comes to you, brother,” she says, her eyes twinkling with mischief.

As Ana introduces Viktor to Yelena, I observe their interaction closely. He carries himself with confidence, but there’s a wariness in his eyes when they meet mine. Good. He’s not a fool.

Yelena, ever the social butterfly, swoops in to introduce herself. I watch with amusement as Viktor falls under her spell, just like countless men before him. This could be entertaining.

When Yelena insists on a family dinner, I see Viktor’s resolve crumble. Poor man doesn’t stand a chance against her charm.

Later, in my bedroom, Ana asks, “What do you think about Viktor and Yelena? They seemed to like each other. Would that bother you?”

I pull her close, silencing her with a deep kiss. She melts against me, and for a moment, I forget about everything else.

“If my sister is happy, I wouldn’t interfere,” I murmur against her lips. “But if he hurts her, there will be consequences.”

Ana nods, understanding the weight of my words. I’m about to show her just how much I’ve missed her when my phone rings. Irritation flares, but I know better than to ignore it.

The news from Jakob hits me like a punch to the gut. Our shipment, our containers—all up in flames. Rage burns through me, hot and deadly.

I turn to Ana, my voice cold and controlled. “I have to go. Don’t wait up.”

As I stalk out of the room, my mind is already racing with possibilities. Someone has dared to cross me, to challenge my authority. They’ve made a grave mistake.

Whoever is behind this will learn why I am feared. And they will pay dearly for their transgression. In blood, if necessary.

The game has changed, and I intend to remind everyone why I always come out on top.