Spring Awakening (Seasons in Montana - Spring #4)
Chapter 1
Ivan
“How are you liking Montana? I hear the winters are like Russia.”
“Moscow, yes. Siberia, no.” I smiled as I heard my cousin laugh. Since marrying, Konstantin Baranov has laughed more than ever before. Being the Bratva Pakhan was never easy, but his little Italian wife brought joy into his life.
“Then, can I hope Aunt Sonya is happier than she was here?”
“Much. The residents of Wintervale have welcomed her warmly, and the weather is perfect for her.”
“What about you?”
“You know me, as long as Mama is happy, that’s all I need. I’m still available if you need me. There is a private airport nearby with a charter service. The paper trail is all under Mama’s maiden name, Roloff.”
“A new safe house is a great bonus. If things get ugly with the Cartels again, we may need to send the women to you.”
“Of course. We would make sure they are well cared for and protected. Mama and I have talked about this. It is why we’ve purchased such a large property. It’s back away from the road with lots of extra space for family. We’re also installing a safe room to cover the ‘just in case’.” I knew my cousin and pakhan would appreciate everything we are doing. We’re family, and family takes care of each other.
To add a bit of levity to our conversation, I added, “Besides, the view is beautiful… both of the nature and female kind.”
I could hear the smirk in his voice as he commented, “So there’s hope that you may find a wife yet.”
“There is always hope, Mother,” I laughed.
“Ouch. And on that note, my wife is calling. We’ll talk soon.”
I chuckled as we hung up, and I picked up my coffee, taking a drink as I looked out the window towards the one house close to us. Multiple females lived there, and by the research I’d done, they were sisters. I occasionally saw a man with the youngest sister, her fiancé, Mama learned through the latest gossip, and passed on.
As I continued to drink my coffee, I noticed a beautiful woman leaving the house. As she glanced towards my house, I took her in. She seemed more mature than the other sisters, so my gut told me she was the oldest, Dina Johnson. Even from this distance, I could see the heavy load of responsibility sitting on her shoulders.
My thoughts took me by surprise. I found myself wanting to help her with that load. I hadn’t even spoken to her, and already I was more than interested. Maybe Wintervale would bring me the love I was destined for.