Page 157 of Vicious Reign

“I really hope not.”

She smiles and I kiss her again, deeper this time, tasting wine and chocolate cake.

When we break apart, she says, “I’ve been thinking about what Hope said at dinner. About kids.”

My heart kicks up. “Yeah?”

“Not right now. We’re still building our life, but someday soon…” She trails off, and I see the hope in her eyes.

“Hell, yes. I’d really like to put a baby in you,moya zhena,” I vow, cupping her face in my hands. “Many babies, to be clear. At least five.”

“Whoa, slow down there, babe.” She laughs. “Can we start with one, maybe two, see how we take to the whole parenting thing?”

“I know you’re going to be an amazing mother. Just like you’re amazing at everything. You’ve changed my life, solnyshko, for the better. Every day I think about how fucking lucky I am.” I bury my face in the crook of her neck, breathing her in.

A year ago, I was a man going through the motions of a brutal life I didn’t really want. Now I have purpose. Partnership. Love that is bone-deep.

She laughs. “You’re getting soft, Pakhan.”

“Only for you, baby. Only for you.”

I look down at the woman who walked into my club with a fake name and a dangerous mission and somehow became my whole world.

And I wouldn’t have it any other way.