Page 71 of The Bratva's Nanny

I chuckled, but it lacked humor. “We both know I’m the lucky one.”

I saw the sadness in her eyes. She scooted closer, her arms opening up to me, and I felt a warmth spread through my chest. It was a feeling I hadn’t experienced in a long time, a feeling I thought I’d never feel again.

I let her embrace me, her arms wrapping around me like a gentle breeze on a summer day. She held me tight, her head on my chest, and I felt a heartbeat pounding.

Whether it was hers or mine, I wasn’t sure.

I wrapped my arms around her, holding her close, feeling the warmth of her body against mine. Her rays pierced through the darkness, illuminating a part of me that had long been dormant.

My Little Sun.

All mine.

Chapter Twenty – Maria

I pushed open the door to the small café, my eyes scanning the cozy interior with a mix of anxiety and caution. The bell jingled above my head, and a few nosy customers glanced toward the door to stare.

Thankfully, the café was not my regular one, keeping my identity incognito.

I looked around. I guessed that’s what nerves did to someone—giving me a sudden push to take note of every detail until I’d finally actualized my agenda for showing up.

The décor was simple yet charming, with cream-colored walls and dark wood accents. The tables and chairs were sturdy and comfortable, with a hint of worn elegance. A few framed prints adorned the walls, depicting quaint landscapes and vintage coffee grinders. The overall atmosphere was warm and welcoming, a perfect refuge for a quick cup of coffee or a pause from the day’s hectic pace.

When I thought deeper, I pictured what coming here with Roman would look like. He’d sure stand out above the crowd of mere mortals. Though he could do with reloads of caffeine.

As I sat on one of the fancy velvet chairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee was rich and inviting.

The scent of warm buns wafted from the nearby counter, enticing me with its sweet, buttery fragrance. I could have easily walked up to the counter to place an order, but my reason for coming here was not to chill or have tasty croissants.

I had asked Vasili to stop here on my way to pick up Polina from school, a spontaneous decision that had raised his bushy eyebrow.

From the inception of my employment, I was never one to indulge in frivolous breaks. From Polly’s school, back home, and then, the cycle repeated again. Solid exceptions were made for a quick trip to the grocery store or something else concerning Polly.

Vasili’s questioning gaze had made me feel like I was hiding something.

Which, of course, I was.

But I couldn’t tell him or Roman. It would defeat the entire purpose.

My gaze drifted outside as I waited. The sun cast a warm glow over the bustling street, people rushing back and forth. I checked my watch for what felt like the hundredth time, my nerves beginning to fray. Where was he?

Just as I was starting to think I'd been stood up, the door swung open, and he strode in, a cautious glare and a lopsided grin spreading across his tattoed face. My heart skipped a beat as he spotted me and made his way over, his long strides eating up the distance.

“Finn,” I said, trying to sound nonchalant despite the nervous energy humming through my veins.

I knew I was taking a risk meeting Finn here, but I had to play it cool. I had to outsmart him, and this was the only way. My mind raced with scenarios, my heart pounding in my chest. What if Vasili spotted him outside and recognized him?

What if Roman was already on his way here right now?

I didn't want to show him any weakness, any sign that I was onto him.

“Maria, lovely to see you,” he said, dropping into the seat opposite me. His eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled, but I knew it was all an act. A snake was always a snake. “Although, I can’t for the life of me figure out why you sent me that text, needing to see me.”

The café’s bustle faded into the background as I gathered my thoughts, thinking of ways to pretend to trust him, just a little.

I sighed, my eyes locked on his curious gaze. “I'm in a tight spot, Finn,” I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. “I'm trapped, and I need your help to get out.”

Finn's eyebrows shot up, his interest piqued. He leaned forward, elbows on the table and eyes fixed intently on mine. "What do you mean, trapped?" he asked, his voice low and smooth, encouraging me to open up.