Page 60 of Tainted Empire

“Anything,” I say, my voice steady.

“Be cautious,” he says solemnly. “Trust is a rare commodity in our world. And remember, not everyone will be pleased to see Mikhail’s... partner stepping into his shoes, even temporarily.”

I swallow hard, the reality of his words sinking in. “I understand. But I won’t let fear dictate my actions. I’ll be cautious, but I won’t back down.”

He stands up, preparing to leave. “Rest now, Gabriette. You’ll need all your strength for the days ahead. We’ll be in touch.”

As he leaves, I’m left alone with my thoughts. The path ahead is filled with uncertainty, but I’m determined to walk it. For Mikhail, for us. I’m more than just a partner; I’m a Baranova. I’ll do whatever it takes to protect our family and our interests.

And I’ll prove to everyone, including myself, that I’m more than capable of holding my own in this treacherous world.

Chapter 31

Gabriette

A short while after Kazimir leaves, the doctor enters my room, his face betraying the weariness of someone who’s seen too much. He’s holding a clipboard, and his white coat seems to emphasize the seriousness of our situation.

“Mrs. Baranova, good to see you awake” he begins. “My name is Dr. Simeon and I have your prognosis. You’ve sustained some bruises and a mild concussion, but you should make a full recovery with rest.”

I nod, my thoughts immediately shifting. “And Mikhail? How is he doing?”

Dr. Simeon hesitates, a sign that the news isn’t all positive. “It’s touch and go right now. The inflammation has come down, which is good, but... it’s a waiting game at this point.”

My heart clenches at his words. “What are the chances of his recovery?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

“It’s too soon to say,” he replies carefully. “We’re doing everything we can, but these next few days are critical.”

We talk a bit more about the medical details, but my mind is only partially there. Before he leaves, I assert, “Mikhail is to be moved to a private ward.”

His mouth falls open. “Mrs. Baranova, I’m not sure if we can—”

“I’m not asking, doctor. I’m demanding it,” I say, sitting up. “No matter what it costs, I want him to be in a ward by himself.”

He looks slightly taken aback by my firm tone but then nods in agreement. “Alright, Mrs. Baranova. I’ll make the arrangements.”

After he leaves, I turn to Alexei, who’s been quietly standing guard by the door. “Take me to Mikhail,” I say, my voice barely above a whisper.

Alexei helps me to Mikhail’s room, and the sight that greets me is heart-wrenching.

Mikhail, the man everyone fears and respects, lies there looking so vulnerable, so broken. His usual strength and command are replaced by the quiet beeping of machines. Tears well up in my eyes, but I push them back. This is not the time for tears; it’s the time for action.

“Call Ivan,” I tell Alexei, my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me.

Ivan is Mikhail’s Brigadier, his second in command and he’ll probably protest my taking over, but he needs to know who is in charge and that will not be him. They may be used to a man leading them, but they’re not the ones bearing the Baranov name.

Ivan arrives within minutes, his expression grave. “Mrs. Baranova,” he greets me.

“I’ll be taking over from here until Mikhail is back on his feet,” I tell him, meeting his gaze. “Mikhail’s safety is my top priority. I want men stationed outside his hospital room now, and especially once he’s moved to the private ward.”

Ivan nods, understanding the seriousness of my words and I’m actually quite surprised at how calm he is. “Understood. What about visitors or doctors who need to come in?”

“No one is to be trusted. Everyone who wants to come in is to be vetted, especially when I’m not here. No one is allowed in without my say-so,” I state, my tone leaving no room for argument.

Ivan looks at me, a new respect in his eyes. “As you wish, Mrs. Baranova. We’ll make sure he’s protected.”

As Ivan leaves to make the arrangements, I sit by Mikhail’s bedside, taking his hand in mine. The powerful, fearless man who has always been my rock now lies here because of me, because of us.

I lean in close, whispering, “I’ll take care of everything, Mischa. Just come back to me.”