Plus-Size Bratva Bride (Vadim Bratva #9)

Chapter 1 - Pippa

I entered the casino and, like every time, was immediately taken in by the sounds, sights, and colors. A buzz of laughter wafted in from the right, a whoop from the craps table. Women bustled around in glittering clothes, kissing chips for the men they had accompanied. They were all clearly dressed for the night, but outside this well-lit, alive cavern, the sun had already risen.

I couldn’t blame them for not knowing.

In here, there was no sense of time. Most people didn’t say this openly, but the reason there weren’t any clocks on the walls was to ensure that once a person entered, they lost track of time. Once they did that, the money rolled right in for the casino.

The music played soft and repetitive, giving the illusion that it was still the same song. The drinks had always been free for the high-rollers and cheap for the rest. Once you entered, the world outside faded away.

That place was meant to be a sanctuary, an escape. For some addicted, it became a nightmare. But for me, it had always remained a safe haven. It was the only place where I truly belonged.

The opulent space buzzed with activity--the chiming of slot machines, the excited chatter of patrons, the clinking of glasses. But it was more than just another day at work for me.

I made my way through the main floor, nodding and smiling at the staff I passed. They were more than just colleagues; after six years here, they were my extended family.

"Morning, Pippa!" called out Jack, one of the dealers. "Looking sharp as always."

I grinned and waved. "Thanks, Jack. Catch you later for our weekly poker game?"

"You know it! Prepared to lose again?" He winked.

"In your dreams," I shot back with a laugh. Our banter was a comforting routine.

My smile remained as I continued on. This was my domain. Here, I wasn't just plus-sized Pippa who could have been so pretty if she only lost some weight—my aunt’s words, not mine. Here, I was Ms. Burrows, the assistant manager who commanded respect. I kept this place running like a well-oiled machine.

Sure, I still had moments of doubt when I caught my reflection and wished I could shed a few pounds, my relatives' constant taunts coming back to bite me when I least expected it. But I never let it diminish my confidence or work ethic. I was made to feel valuable here, in every way that truly mattered. This place healed me in ways I never thought possible.

With a determined squaring of my shoulders, I headed for my office, ready to tackle the day.

As I approached the entrance, I spotted Mariana leaving the office, her elegant figure wrapped in a tailored coat. Her face lit up when she saw me, and she greeted me with a warm smile and a kiss on each cheek.

"Pippa, Darling! I'm so glad I caught you before leaving," she said. "I left some homemade cookies in your office. I know how much you love them."

My heart swelled with affection. "Thank you, Mariana. You know I can never resist your baking."

She laughed a melodic sound that always made me feel at ease. "Well, it's the least I can do for our hardest worker. You're like a sister to us, Pippa. Never forget that."

As she bid me farewell and walked away, I felt a lump forming in my throat. The Vadims' kindness never ceased to amaze me, especially considering my past.

My thoughts drifted back to my childhood after my parents had passed away. My aunt and uncle had taken me in, but they had never made me feel loved or wanted. They treated me like a burden, constantly reminding me of how much I owed them for their "generosity."

I could still hear my aunt's harsh voice echoing in my mind. "You're lucky we took you in, Pippa. No one else would want a chubby, orphaned brat like you."

Those words had stung, leaving invisible scars that I carried with me my whole life. I had grown up feeling neglected and unworthy, always striving to prove my value through hard work and dedication.

But with the Vadims, everything was different. They appreciated me for who I was, never making me feel like I had to earn their love or respect. They treated me like family, and I was fiercely loyal to them in return. Vlad was the stern but fair boss, trusting me with major responsibilities. And Mariana, his wife, showed me the familial affection I'd missed for so long.

I blinked back the tears that threatened to fall, not wanting to ruin my carefully applied makeup. I pushed open the door and entered my office, the scent of Mariana's cookies filling the air.

***

I savored the taste of Mariana's homemade cookie, the sweet vanilla and chocolate chips melting on my tongue. As I settled into my chair, I couldn't help but dream about my future. I had been saving every penny I could, determined to buy my own home someday. Vlad and Mariana knew of my dream, and every year, the Christmas bonus they gave me was more than generous.

A knock at the door interrupted my thoughts. "Come in," I called out, straightening my pencil skirt and adjusting my blouse.

Vlad entered, his usual confident smile replaced by a more serious expression. "Pippa, do you have a moment? There's something important I need to discuss with you."

"Of course, Vlad. Is everything alright?" I asked, concern etched on my face.

He sat down across from me, clasping his hands together. "I've been thinking about the future of the casino, and I've decided it's time for me to step back and focus on some new ventures."

My heart skipped a beat. For a brief moment, I felt nervous, almost afraid.

While the casino worked under legal licenses, I was aware of Vlad’s other illegal dealings. I had initially joined this company completely unaware, but over the years, there were signs and paper trails that showed up. For a while, I pretended not to know, but after Vlad got married to Mariana, she became involved, and with the keen eye she had, she figured out I knew more than I let on. They both sat me down and told me all they could about being the Bratva. I was free to leave, they said, if the situation made me uncomfortable. But there never was any reason.

However, trouble sometimes arrived at our door, and Vlad handled it quietly. As his direct under-command, I worried about what would happen if such a situation arose again. How would I have handled it?

My voice betrayed my fear. "I’m prepared to do what it takes, Vlad,” I said quietly. “But…what does that mean for us? For the casino?"

Vlad leaned forward, his eyes locking with mine. "Pippa, you've been an invaluable asset to this company. I have no doubt that you can handle the challenges ahead. I want you to take on more responsibility, to be my eyes and ears when I'm not around."

I nodded, a mix of excitement and nervousness coursing through me. "I'm honored, Vlad. I won't let you down. I'm ready to prove myself."

He smiled, the warmth returning to his eyes. "I know you won't, Pippa. You've always been a hard worker, and I have complete faith in your abilities.”

I nodded, overwhelmed by his faith in me. My eyes wandered to the picture on my desk of us on my birthday last year—Vlad, Mariana, and their daughter. For them, I would work harder than ever to ensure the success of the casino, and to make Vlad and Mariana proud.

Thinking the conversation was done with, I reached for some papers subconsciously to get started on work when Vlad cleared his throat.

"Pippa, there's one more thing I need to discuss with you," he said.

I raised an eyebrow, curious. "Of course, Vlad. What is it?"

He took a deep breath as if steeling himself for my reaction. “There will be some changes, and I know you'll handle them with grace and professionalism. However, I've decided to bring in someone I trust to oversee the casino operations in my absence. This whole operation would require a little more than your capable hands, given our other dealings.”

A mix of emotions washed over me—surprise, curiosity, and a hint of apprehension. I had always been Vlad's right-hand woman, and the thought of someone else stepping into that role was unsettling. But I was also touched that Vlad cared to ensure I wasn’t thrown into the deep end. And besides, I trusted Vlad's judgment and knew he would never bring in someone who couldn't handle the job.

"I see," I said, keeping my voice calm and even. "And who might this person be?"

“A trusted man who does odd jobs for our family. He’s good. And he’s waiting in my office as we speak. I’d like to make introductions straight away.”

"Of course, Vlad," I said, standing up immediately. "I appreciate your trust in me."

He patted my shoulder affectionately as I joined his side. "You've earned it, Pippa. I couldn't ask for a better person to have by my side during this transition."

With that, we left my office and headed to his.

***

Vlad swung the door open, motioning at me to enter first. I strode in and saw a man sitting on a chair. Rather, I saw the broadest shoulders I’d ever seen.

Vlad shut the door behind me, and the man turned in his seat. The first thing I noticed was his piercing gaze. His eyes glued right onto me, all blue-grey and dazzling. For a brief second, my breath hitched in my throat as I took in the sight of him. Tall, his one arm placed casually across the backrest of the chair. His dark brown hair was styled to perfection, not a single strand out of place, and his beard, cut close to the skin, was shaped to accentuate every sharp angle in that strong jawline.

He looked like he was straight out of a magazine cover or something.

“Abrahim,” Vlad said from behind. His voice jerked me into the present because I swear I’d forgotten he was even in the room.

Abrahim gave a single nod of acknowledgment, his eyes never straying away from my face, and I felt the heat creep down my neck. I blinked, forcing myself to look to my side, to where Vlad stood.

Vlad led me toward the chair beside Abrahim and took his seat across the table. It took everything in me to not look toward the handsome stranger sitting beside me. But, my eyes flickered to his arm. His shirt was rolled up to his elbows, and through that tattooed skin, I could see every strong vein. It was clear he worked out hard.

“I thought it would be wise for you both to meet each other,” Vlad explained, leaning forward. I looked at my boss, not trusting myself to stare at Abrahim. “Pippa Burrows has worked with us for a long time now, and I think it would be good for you to be in contact with her while you run this place. She knows it like the back of her hand. Pippa, Abrahim Ustinov is an excellent resource to have around here.”

From the corner of my eye, I saw his scrutinizing gaze lingering on me, his lips quirking up in a half-smirk that made my pulse quicken. "Pleasure to meet you, Pippa." His voice was low and smooth, sending shivers down my spine. I managed to look at him and push out a polite smile, trying to push down the unexpected flutter in my stomach.

"Likewise," I replied, trying to keep my tone professional despite the intense heat that seemed to radiate from him. It was as if his mere presence demanded attention and commanded the space around him.

What he said next stumped me. “I’m sure Ms. Burrows is very good at her job, but I don’t think I’ll be needing much assistance around here, will I Vlad? I know this place inside out.” He gave Vlad a grin.

I jerked my head toward him, eyes widening. Had he truly just said that? This man oozed arrogance.

Vlad cleared his throat, sensing the brewing storm in the room. “Now, Now, Abe. Things have changed since you were here last. There’s always a question or two that could pop up and Pippa here is the right person to help you with that. I trust you will both find a way to work together smoothly—and together, you can take this casino to new heights."

I swallowed hard, my anger still simmering beneath the surface. But I knew Vlad was right. As much as I hated to admit it, Abrahim and I would have to find a way to work together if we wanted to succeed.

"Of course, Vlad," I said, forcing a smile. "I'm sure Mr. Ustinov and I will find a way to… cooperate."

But even as the words left my mouth, I couldn't shake the feeling that this man was going to be a thorn in my side.

Abrahim smirked, his eyes glinting with something that looked almost like amusement. "I look forward to it, Miss Burrows."

I plastered on a smile, determined not to let my annoyance show while Vlad still sat across us.

As Vlad and Abrahim continued to discuss the details of the transition, I found myself studying the newcomer, trying to get a read on him. But the whole time, I found myself distracted by the thought that those good looks were a waste on a man this arrogant.

I shook myself mentally, pushing aside the unwelcome attraction. I had worked too hard to let myself be distracted by a pretty face and a cocky attitude. I was here to do a job, and I would do it well, no matter who I had to work with.

As the meeting drew to a close, Vlad stood up and shook Abrahim's hand. "I'll leave you two to get acquainted. Pippa, please show Abe around the casino and bring him up to speed on our operations."

I nodded, my stomach twisting at the thought of spending more time alone with this infuriating man. "Of course, Vlad. I'll make sure he's well-informed."

Abrahim's lips quirked into a smirk as he turned to face me. "Lead the way, Miss Burrows. I'm sure you'll be an excellent guide."

Abrahim's gaze swept across me, as though he was sizing me up, assessing if I was as capable as Vlad led him to believe I was. A smirk played at the corners of his lips, and I had the sudden urge to wipe it off his face.

As we stepped out of Vlad's office, I could feel the tension crackling between us like electricity. I tried to focus on the task at hand, pointing out the various features of the casino and explaining our day-to-day operations. But every time I glanced at Abrahim, I found him watching me with that same intense gaze, his eyes roaming over my curves in a way that made my skin prickle with heat.

"Impressive," he murmured, but there was a hint of something else in his voice, something that sounded almost like mockery. "And what do you think of the Vadims' other business ventures?"

I paused, my heart skipping a beat. "I'm not sure what you mean, Mr. Ustinov. My role is strictly in the legal side of things."

He chuckled, a deep, rich sound that sent shivers down my spine. "Of course, of course. How silly of me to assume otherwise. And please, call me Abe.”

I bristled at his tone of familiarity after he tried to put me down, my temper flaring. “For now, I could manage Abrahim,” I retorted.

“How mighty kind of you,” he drawled, a bite to his tone. I ignored him and pointed ahead. “Come,” I said. “We’ve got a lot of ground to cover.”

By now, I’d realized it was best to keep things professional.