Chapter 1
Vadim
There were too many people in the church and it was difficult to keep my eyes on all of them. My men were posted inside and outside. That should have been enough, but it wasn’t. Iskra stood within my eye line. She smiled.
Just as the bride entered the church, I remembered how I’d dismissed Iskra on our wedding day. In all my ego and arrogance I had forgotten that the strongest piece on a chessboard was the queen.
The one piece you had to protect at all costs.
Our eyes met again.
She knew.
She always had.
That brilliant, devious mind of hers had guided me in ensuring longevity for the Bratva and our family.
Ruslan was still my advisor. But she was my confidante.
The one person I could bare my soul to.
I placed the crown on my brother’s head. I listened to the priest’s words. Then the vows.
Seven years ago I chose a photograph that led me to Iskra.
Fate had been beyond kind to me.
I was surrounded by friends, family and love.
Something brushed against my leg.
Runa.
My catalyst.
I lifted her up, kissing her cheek while she watched her dyadya place the ring on his bride’s finger.
This was my world and I wouldn’t change a single thing.
The End.