Page 55 of Tainted Empire

Mikhail

Tonight’s the night of the dinner with Vladimir, and fuck, I can’t shake this feeling of dread. It’s one thing to walk into a viper’s nest myself, but it’s a whole other game when I’m bringing Gabriette along.

I know she’s tough, capable, but the thought of her in that environment tightens a knot in my gut.

As I adjust my tie in the mirror, Gabriette comes up behind me, sliding her arms around my waist. “Nervous, Mischa?” she asks, her voice soft but firm.

I meet her eyes in the mirror, a mix of worry and determination in mine. “Just... it’s a fucking snake pit, baby. I know you can handle yourself, but these people, they’re the worst of the worst.”

She smiles, a hint of steel behind her eyes. “We’ll be fine, Mikhail. I don’t trust these people, but let’s see what Vladimir wanted. Perhaps it can be of use to us.”

I nod, taking a deep breath. “Yeah, I get that, but it doesn’t mean I have to fucking like it,” I growl.

We leave for dinner, and the tension doesn’t ease until we pull up to Vladimir’s place. It’s lavish, intimidating, and as we step inside, I’m on high alert. The first shock comes immediately – another Pakhan is here, his presence signaling this is more than just a casual dinner.

Fucking Anatoly Ivanov; Pakhan of St Petersburg. What is this fucker doing here?

Then I see Kaius Tulvan and his wife, Emilia. Fucking hell, tonight just got a whole lot more interesting.

Kaius, with his long dark curls and imposing build, is a figure I recognize instantly. But it’s Emilia who really catches my attention. Petite, blonde, with a reputation that precedes her – she was once Italian mafia, an enforcer as ruthless as they come, now part of the Romanian mafia, Brigazi. And even more importantly, she’s Lee’s aunt.

Emilia’s back is turned to us, but I can see the angel wings tattoo peeking out from her dress – each feather a kill. It’s a chilling reminder of her past and how she’s never missed a target.

The moment we make eye contact, there’s a jolt of surprise from both of them. I grip Gabriette’s hand a little tighter as we approach the group. “Stay close,” I whisper to her.

Quickly, I lean towards Gabriette, whispering urgently, “That’s Kaius Tulvan and his wife, Emilia. She’s Lee’s aunt; a former Italian mafia enforcer, now with the Romanian mafia. This is... unexpected.”

Before we can process the situation further, Kaius and Emilia approach us, their expressions a mix of confusion and suspicion.

“Baranov,” Kaius greets me with a nod, his voice low. “Didn’t expect to see you here. What’s this about?”

I take a deep breath, trying to maintain composure. I meet his gaze squarely. “Wish I knew, Tulvan. We were invited by Vladimir, didn’t expect this to be a gathering of... let’s say, such distinguished guests. This is turning into some kind of fucked-up gathering.”

Gabriette stands by my side, her eyes taking in every detail, every nuance in the room.

Emilia’s lips curl into a wry smile, but there’s tension in her eyes. “Seems like we’ve been thrown into a blender to see what mix comes out. Not exactly my idea of a fun evening. ”

Gabriette stands beside me, her composure unwavering. “We’re all in the dark, it seems. But we’ll be watching closely.”

Kaius’s eyes darted around the room, assessing. “Something’s off. Vladimir isn’t one for casual dinners without purpose.”

I nod in agreement. “Exactly my thoughts. We need to be cautious, keep our eyes open. Whatever this is, it’s not just a friendly dinner.”

Well, it’s good to know I’m not the only one thinking this.

Emilia’s gaze flickers to Gabriette, then back to me. “You brought her into this den of vipers, Mikhail? Brave or foolish, I can’t decide.”

Gabriette doesn’t miss a beat. Before I can defend her, she steps slightly forward, her posture confident, her voice steady and assertive.

“Being here was a mutual decision,” Gabriette says, meeting Emilia’s gaze squarely. “I’m not just an accessory in Mikhail’s life. I’m his partner, in every sense. This world, as dangerous as it is, is as much mine as it is his now.”

Emilia’s eyebrows rise slightly, a flicker of respect showing in her eyes. “Well, well. You’ve got fire, I’ll give you that. Most women in your place would cower. It’s refreshing to see someone who doesn’t.”

Gabriette’s response is calm but firm. “I’ve learned that in this world, showing fear is the same as showing weakness. I refuse to be seen as weak.”

Kaius, who had been observing the exchange quietly, let out a low chuckle. “She’s got guts, Mikhail. Looks like you’ve found yourself more than just a pretty face.”

I can’t help but feel a surge of pride. “She’s proven that time and again. Gabriette’s a vital part of my life and my decisions. Underestimating her would be a mistake.”