Chapter 18 - Pippa
The black dress taunts me from where it lies, draped across my bed. A sleek and form-fitting shift dress—worlds away from my usual flowing skirts and soft cardigans. I fiddle anxiously with the zipper at the back, imagining how constricting the fabric will feel as it clings to my curves.
A knock at the door startles me from my worrying. Before I can respond, Anoushka breezes into the room, her signature smirk dancing on her lips.
"Well, don't you look like a frightened little mouse staring down that big, bad dress?"
I roll my eyes dramatically. "Oh hush, you. I'll have you know this mouse has faced scarier things than a silly cocktail party."
"Mm-hmm, I'm sure." Her grin widens as she snatches the dress from the bed. "Now quit your whining and let me help you into this thing."
Gently, she guides me into the dress, smoothing it over my hips and securing the zipper. I suck in a breath as I catch my reflection in the mirror. The inky fabric drapes softly over my body, accentuating the most important curves. Despite my reservations, I feel beautiful.
I turn and pull Anoushka into a fierce hug. "Thank you," I whisper into her hair. "For always knowing exactly what I need."
She returns the embrace, giving me an affectionate squeeze. "You can call me anytime for help. That's what sisters are for."
“But truly, Anoushka. I can’t believe you managed to pick out something so exquisite,” I say, looking at my reflection in the mirror.
“Hush, sit now.” Anoushka leads me to a chair. She applies some bare, dewy make-up, which makes my skin glow.
“God!” Anoushka moans, dabbing some red lipstick on my lips. “I would kill to be nineteen again.”
“Would you?” I ask skeptically.
“If I had your skin? Hell yeah! You’re gorgeous, the epitome of youth, my dear.”
She then proceeds to tie my hair in a chignon, leaving some loose strands of hair to frame my face.
“Wow,” I gasp out loud when she steps away, unable to imagine that this reflection staring back at me is mine.
Anoushka pulls back and regards me with a thoughtful look. "You know, I think I have just the thing to complete this look."
She hurries over to the dresser and retrieves a black velvet box. Nestled inside is a stunning diamond necklace that glitters even in the low light.
"Oh my, I couldn't possibly-" I start to protest, but she quiets me with a wave of her hand.
"Nonsense. Every proper lady needs her diamonds. I picked it out especially for you from my personal collection.”
With care, Anoushka fastens the necklace around my neck. The cool metal and stones rest delicately on my décolletage. I brush my fingers over the gems, marveling at their extravagance.
"There," Anoushka proclaims. "Now you're ready to slay that party and make all the men weak in the knees."
I blush furiously at the thought. There's only one man I care to impress tonight.
After profusely thanking Anoushka again, I make my way downstairs to the waiting car. Anoushka tells me she’ll join shortly. Lev’s been calling, impatiently asking where I am. Butterflies swirl violently in my stomach during the drive over. I take deep breaths, trying to calm my nerves.
Too soon, we pull up to the grand hotel hosting the event. I step out on shaky legs, clutching my purse like a lifeline. As I enter the glittering ballroom, I immediately spot Lev across the crowded space. Our eyes lock and the breath hitches in my throat. He looks devastatingly handsome in his tuxedo, hair pulled back to reveal the sharp lines of his jaw.
Tonight will certainly be interesting.
Lev wastes no time making his way over to me, his intense gaze never leaving mine. I feel pinned in place, unable to look away or even breathe properly.
"Miss Anderson," he says smoothly as he stops in front of me. "You look ravishing this evening."
Miss Anderson? I frown and then notice the dozens of people milling around, each waiting to get a word in with a Zolotov brother.
His eyes trail appreciatively over my body, making me hyper aware of the necklace resting above my cleavage. I resist the urge to fidget nervously under his scrutiny.
"T-thank you, Mr. Zolotov," I manage to stammer out. "You look very handsome yourself."
A corner of his mouth quirks up in a half-smile.
Something fluttered in my chest at the sight of that smile. If only I could kiss him now. But I know such thoughts are foolish, especially here in public.
Before he can say anything further, we're interrupted by the approach of an older gentleman. Lev's entire demeanor shifts seamlessly into cool professionalism as he greets the man.
I stand awkwardly off to the side, unsure what to do. This is Lev's world, not mine. I'm merely a guest. For now, I'll have to be content playing the role of adoring outsider.
But later… later we'll have a chance to be alone. And I can't wait to see what that brings.
I try to blend into the background as Lev converses with the older gentleman, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention. These fancy events make me nervous, though I'd never admit that out loud. I'm a simple college girl, not meant for glitzy parties and schmoozing.
Out of the corner of my eye, I notice a small group of men watching me curiously. They have a family resemblance to Lev, with the same inky dark hair and piercing eyes. Lev notices me looking and discretely murmurs, "My cousins. Ivan, Mikhail, and Sergei. Ivan is the most powerful Bratva Boss in America."
I give a tiny nod, feeling my cheeks heat. I’m guessing they don’t know about Lev and me, and I pray it remains that way.
“I—I’m going to go get a drink,” I tell Lev and walk away alone. I simply don’t want the extra attention from the powerful mob.
As I walk away, I feel like I have eyes blazing into me. I turn around and see Lev, watching me every step of the way. I blush and look straight ahead, only to stop at the bar and order myself a lemonade.
I take a steadying breath and turn back to the party. Across the room, Lev is watching me, an unreadable expression on his face. I offer a small smile.
"There you are, Pippa," comes a familiar voice. I turn to see Boris approaching.
"Mr. Zolotov," I say politely.
He waves a hand. "Please, call me Boris. I wanted to see if you're enjoying yourself tonight."
"Oh, it's wonderful," I reply brightly. "I don't usually attend events like this."
Boris nods. "An intern's salary doesn't allow for much frivolity, I imagine."
I laugh softly. "Too true. But I'm happy with my role. It's a great learning experience." I go on to confidently explain some of my daily tasks, wanting to showcase my competence.
Boris listens attentively, seemingly impressed. "You have a good head on your shoulders, Pippa. I'm glad to have you in the office."
"Thank you, Sir—Boris," I correct myself, beaming.
As Boris moves on, I feel a swell of pride in holding my own. Maybe I do belong in this glamorous world after all.
I turn back to the bar to adjust my necklace when I feel a soft jab on my waist. I turn with a gasp to find Lev standing there, looking down at me.
“What are you drinking?” he winks in my direction.
“Lemonade,” I tell him.
“How about some wine?”
“I’m 19, Lev,” I remind him.
He leans closer, whispering in my ear, his breath hot on it. “Hasn’t stopped you before.”
Memories rush back of us drunk, making love in the living room. “Well,” I hiss back, trying to ignore the thrill passing down my spine. “That was in close quarters. Here, it’s illegal.”
“Whatever you say,” he shrugs, and leans against the bar.
Just then, one of the men detaches from the group of Lev’s cousins and saunters over. He's movie-star handsome, with a roguish grin. "You must be the lovely Pippa. I'm Ivan, Lev's favorite cousin."
"Oh, uh, nice to meet you," I stammer out, flustered.
Beside me, Lev straightens his spine, standing straight now.
"No need to be shy," he says kindly. "I just wanted to properly welcome you to our… company . Lev's told us so much about you."
At this, I shoot a surprised glance at Lev, who looks a touch uncomfortable. “Ivan…” he warns.
Ivan chuckles in a restrained but warm manner. "All good things, I promise." He leans in conspiratorially. "I think you'll liven up those stuffy family reunions of ours."
Now, it's my turn to blush brightly. What exactly has Lev said about me to his family? I feel off-balance, unsure how to navigate this new dynamic. But Ivan seems nice enough. And I'm curious to learn more about Lev's world.
"Well, I appreciate the welcome," I say, regaining some composure. Ivan smiles. "So Pippa, about that family reunion…" he says mischievously.
I raise an eyebrow. "Yes?"
"I already told Lev to bring you as his date,” he tells me matter-of-factly.
“Wait, what?” Lev sputters, but Ivan ignores him and walks away without waiting for an answer from me, as though it’s a given I’ll be there.
My eyes widen in surprise and I feel my cheeks reddening yet again. Just what is Lev thinking, telling his family about me? I don't know whether to feel flattered or embarrassed. Yet, at the same time, I can't help but feel curious about what adventures await with Lev and his outrageous cousins.