Page 76 of The Dark Side

Katia narrowed her eyes. "That is clearly none of your business. And just so we're clear, eavesdropping could get you killed." She pulled Helina up even as the little girl protested and yanked her to the door.

Chapter twenty-eight

Glance

Theridehomewasunpleasant. No amount of apologizing got Katia in a good mood, and it became a point to Jolie that shutting up was better for both of them.

But it did leave Jolie with questions.

Why were Gil and Katia arguing?

What's their relationship?

And did that touch seem more of an apologetic movement as opposed to an aggressive one?

Gil was family. He was like a brother to Adrik, but 'like' a brother wasn't one. He didn't live in the house, and he was clearly a soldier. Maybe he got more privileges than others?

When they got home, Katia didn't leave the limo. She dropped Jolie off and then left with her daughter. It was a relief. Jolie didn't like when people were upset with her. Chances are she'd start baking brownies, cookies, cakes, and strudels just to get back on Katia's good side.

Gil's car had been behind them. He stepped out of the car, watching Katia's limo drive off. Then he turned to Jolie. She attempted to give a supportive smile, but he shook his head and slipped back into the car, driving after her. As her escort, he had no other choice.

With enough drama today to exhaust her, Jolie headed to her bedroom, but a woman was coming down as she was going up.

This person was amazingly immaculate; from her nails to her hair to the inch-thick of makeup, there was not a strand of her that wasn't planned. Behind her, Adrik walked, and though it was clear the woman had Botox and other cosmetic surgeries, something in her face exposed her.

Adrik's mother.

Jolie leaned against the wall even though there was ample space for them to walk down while she went up. But the thick feeling of intimidation and how Adrik ignored her earlier broke her confidence.

Jolie could feel the woman's ice-blue eyes on her. Not wanting to expose her lack of a backbone, Jolie lifted her head and smiled sweetly, "Hello."

In Russian, the woman looked over her shoulder, speaking to her son,"Who is this?"

Adrik replied in English, "Mama, this is Helina's tutor, Jolie Bell. Miss Bell, this is my mother, Tatianna."

Jolie straightened her back, sparking to life like a cat getting attention. "Hi." Jolie put out her hand. It's a pleasure to meet you."

In Russian, Tatianna replied,"An American?"She gently rested her hand in the girl's, but it was brief, and she took it right back, her fingers rubbing together to wipe off any germs.

Feeling his mother's disapproval, Adrik whispered, "She saved Helina, Mama, at the shootout."

The tension disappeared, and instantly, Tatianna grinned so lovingly. "Oh, my girl!" she squealed in English, rushing to take Jolie into her arms. "You are a prize. Thank you so much for what you did for my family. You are forever my hero. Are you being well taken care of? All your needs must be met. Adrik?"

Adrik answered, "Esfir is in charge of her care."

"Esfir, that beady-eyed old woman. She's still alive? If Esfir gives you any trouble, you come to me. Understood?"

Jolie grinned, red-faced, "Yes, ma’am."

"Ma'am! Wonderful manners. I hope you are teaching my stubborn little cookie such manners. Where is Helina? I must see my granddaughter."

Adrik clenched his teeth and revealed, "Katia took her to her parents."

A sneer was unnatural on Tatianna's artificial lips. "Of course. Tell her to return as soon as possible. I've been without my sweet nugget for too long. It was wonderful to meet you, and I hope you will join us tomorrow for my dinner."

"Yes, ma'am, I'll be there."

"Oh, love you!" Tatianna touched Jolie's cheek before continuing down the stairs.