Alice's POVHer eyebrows wrinkled slightly, apprehension obvious in her countenance. "Do you want to speak about it? Sometimes it helps to get things off your chest."I took a big breath, gathered my thoughts. "Well, you see... I just found out that I'm pregnant."The words lingered in the air, and I watched as Emily's eyes widened in astonishment. She instantly recovered her composure, a pleasant grin adorning her lips."Wow, Alice, that's wonderful news! Congratulations!" she shouted, real excitement obvious in her voice.Relief rushed over me as her expression was one of real gladness. I had half anticipated censure or skepticism, but Emily's answer was both sincere and helpful."Thank you," I said, a feeling of appreciation flooding my voice. "It's simply that... I haven't gotten the opportunity to inform Liam yet. I wanted to wait till I went back home."Understanding flared in Emily's eyes. "I can understand it must be stressful, wanting to share such significant news with the p
Alice's POVThe long journey back to America had taken its toll on me. Fatigue weighed heavily on my eyelids, making each step feel like a monumental effort. As I stepped off the plane and into the bustling airport, the familiar sights and sounds of home greeted me, but they seemed distant and hazy, as if viewed through a foggy lens.Liam, ever the attentive and caring husband, noticed my weariness immediately. His concerned gaze met mine, his eyes filled with a mixture of love and understanding. Without a word, he gently took my hand and guided me through the airport, navigating the crowd with ease.I leaned on him for support, my body craving the comfort of his touch. The weight of the past few weeks seemed to be lifted as his presence enveloped me, providing solace and strength. Despite the exhaustion, a small smile graced my lips as I marveled at the depth of his love and the unspoken connection we shared.We reached our home, the familiar surroundings offering a sense of tranquil
Alice's POVAs I curled up on the sofa, still feeling the leftover affects of my previous attack of nausea, Liam knelt down alongside me, worry etched on his lovely face. His eyes met mine with a combination of fear and affection, quietly asking whether I was okay.I forced a modest grin, hoping to soothe him. "I'm okay, Liam," I answered gently, my voice conveying a tinge of exhaustion. "Just a momentary discomfort, nothing to worry about."He reached out and softly stroked a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch sending a reassuring warmth through me. "Are you sure, love? I hate to see you like this. Is there anything I can do?"I leaned towards his touch, admiring the genuine worry in his gaze. "Thank you, Liam. Your presence alone is enough to make me feel better. But if you don't mind, maybe we could watch a movie together? It could help me relax and take my mind off problems."A glimmer of relief crossed his face as he nodded. "Of course, love. Whatever you need. Let's find s
Alice's POVThe morning light crept through the drapes, giving a lovely glow into our bedroom. As I gently rose from the depths of slumber, I found myself caught in a wave of fatigue.My limbs feel heavy, and my eyes battle to remain open. It seemed as if the weight of burgeoning life inside me had permeated into every fiber of my body.Blinking away the remains of sleep, I gazed at Liam, who lay next me, still sweetly buried in slumber. His steady breathing offered a calm soundtrack to my tired head.But when I switched my sight towards my swelling tummy, the reality of the pregnancy struck me once more.With a long sigh, I dragged myself out of bed, my body moving slowly and excruciatingly. The lethargy crept deep inside my bones, making even the simplest activities seem like a massive effort.As I stood, I caressed my tummy lovingly, marveling at the life taking form inside me. It was a magnificent sensation, one that filled me with both astonishment and tiredness.I stumbled towar
Alice's POV Wrapped in a lovely, flowing robe, I came into the room, my feet light and my heart full. Liam perched on the edge of the bed, engaged in a book, his rugged features softened by the warm light of a bedside lamp. As my sight rested on him, a flood of emotion coursed through my veins, and I couldn't help but adore the guy who held my heart."Liam," I said quietly, my voice a mere whisper in the silent room.He glanced up, his eyes catching mine, and a grin pulled at his lips. The love and affection that exuded from his stare surrounded me, making my pulse quiver."Hey, love," he said, his voice overflowing with affection. "Feeling better after your bath?"I nodded, a warm grin touching my lips. "Much better, thank you."Taking a few steps closer, I froze in front of him, struck by a flood of vulnerability and the desire to communicate my views. Liam laid his book aside, giving me his entire attention, his eyes filled with worry."I want to talk to you about something," I st
Liam's POV I walked into the living room, finding Alice sitting on the couch, absently flipping through a magazine. Her appetite had been off during the dinner we had with my parents, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of concern for her. "Hey, love," I greeted her, sinking down beside her. "You didn't eat much earlier. Are you hungry now? Can I get you anything?" Alice looked up at me, a playful glimmer in her eyes. "Well, now that you mention it, I could really go for some pizza. That weird combination of pickles, pineapple, and chocolate sauce." I couldn't help but raise an eyebrow, a bemused smile playing at my lips. "Pickles, pineapple, and chocolate sauce? Are you sure about that? Sounds like quite the unique craving." She leaned closer, her eyes widening with an innocent charm. "Oh, Liam, you know how these pregnancy cravings work. The baby wants what the infant wants." I laughed, unable to resist her puppy-eyed glance. "Alright, alright. I'll fetch you your odd pizza. Bu
Liam's POVMy heart raced with a mix of relief and anticipation as I dialed Simone's number. He and Silver had been relieved of their duties as personal guards, but their skills and loyalty were unmatched. If anyone could help me in this dire situation, it was them.Simone picked up on the second ring, his voice filled with concern. "Liam? What's wrong? Is everything okay?"I took a deep breath, steadying myself before responding. "Alice has been taken, Simone. The house was raided, and she's missing. I need your help."Silence hung in the air for a moment, and I could almost feel Simone's mind racing, processing the information. "We're on our way," he finally replied, his voice determined. "Silver and I will catch the first flight to America. Just tell us where to meet you."Relief washed over me like a soothing balm. Simone and Silver were not just capable individuals; they were a force to be reckoned with. And now that they were together, their dedication to each other and their sk
Liam's POVAs we left Lucas's refuge, a burning flared inside us. We were resolved to follow the trail and fight the Black Serpents head-on to rescue Alice. The trip back to the safehouse was filled with suspense, the sound of our pounding hearts reverberating in the quiet of the vehicle.Once we arrived, Simone and Silver quickly started to work, calling their large network of spies and supporters to acquire any new information on Natalia Ivanova and the Black Serpents. It was a race against time, every minute seeming like an eternity as we awaited any crumb of crucial information.Hours extended into days as we methodically put together the jigsaw. Finally, we had a breakthrough—a place where Natalia Ivanova was supposed to be meeting with high-ranking members of the Black Serpents. It was a decrepit warehouse on the outskirts of the city, far from prying eyes.With a strategy in place, we suited up, our guns loaded and our resolve strong. Simone and Silver's skill in tactical opera
Alice's POVI sat outside on the patio, enjoying the cool breeze that rustled through the trees. The sun painted the sky in hues of orange and pink as it began its descent, casting a warm glow over our home. I sighed contentedly, cherishing this moment of tranquility amid the chaos of our Mafia life.But then, a sudden sensation washed over me, and I felt a gush of warmth. Confusion gripped me momentarily until the realization dawned upon me. My water had broken. I was going into labor."Melissa! Melissa!" I called out to one of my guards, trying to keep my voice steady despite the urgency I felt. "Please, get Liam! Tell him it's time!"Melissa, ever alert and quick to respond, dashed off to fetch my husband. Panic and excitement mingled within me as I tried to collect myself. My heart pounded in my chest, and my thoughts were a whirlwind of emotions.Within moments, I heard hurried footsteps approaching, and Liam appeared, his face etched with concern. He gathered me in his arms, his
I sat in the boardroom, my back pressed against the plush chair, as boredom settled in like an unwelcome guest. The air was heavy with formality and the monotonous drone of business jargon. How I longed for something to break the monotony, a spark of excitement to ignite the dreary atmosphere.As I observed the suited executives, their faces etched with seriousness, I couldn't help but smirk to myself. They saw me as nothing more than Liam's wife, innocent and uninterested in the matters at hand. Little did they know, I had other plans for this mundane gathering.The rumors had reached my ears, whispers of Santino's involvement in shady dealings. A man so smug and self-assured, thinking he could get away with anything. Oh, how I relished the opportunity to expose his true nature, to challenge him and watch his facade crumble.Santino, sitting across the table from me, was the epitome of arrogance. His eyes glinted with a smug confidence, unaware of the storm that was about to rain dow
Three months had passed since our eventful time in Italy, and now I found myself in America, following Liam's urging to be closer to home as I approached the final stages of my pregnancy. The idea of leaving Russia had been bittersweet, but I couldn't deny that Liam's concern for my well-being was genuine.The transition to America had been smoother than expected, and Liam made sure I was comfortable every step of the way. The luxurious mansion he had prepared for us felt like a safe haven, a sanctuary where I could relax and prepare for the arrival of our child.Liam was right; I had always been a workaholic, dedicated to the responsibilities that came with being part of the Mafia family. But now, with motherhood on the horizon, my priorities had shifted. I was eager to embrace this new chapter of my life, and Liam's presence by my side only added to my sense of security and happiness.Our days were filled with laughter, shared moments, and gentle touches. Liam seemed to have an inna
As we decided to extend our stay in Italy for a couple more days, a sense of relaxation and adventure filled the air. I called Alek, informing him of recent events and assuring him that we were safe. With that weight lifted off our shoulders, we were free to immerse ourselves in the enchanting atmosphere of Italy.One of the places we explored was the breathtaking city of Florence. The city's rich history and artistic treasures beckoned us, and we found ourselves strolling hand in hand through the narrow cobblestone streets. The iconic Duomo Cathedral rose majestically before us, its intricate details and vibrant colors leaving us in awe. We stood in line, patiently waiting to enter the Uffizi Gallery, where masterpieces by renowned artists awaited our eager gaze.As we meandered through the gallery, each room revealing new artistic wonders, Liam's deep appreciation for art was evident. He studied the brushstrokes, the play of light and shadow, with genuine fascination. We engaged in
As the Mafia committee members entered the warehouse, their presence alone commanded authority. Their expressions were stern, their eyes piercing, and their voices resonated with a mixture of intimidation and determination. The Italian Don, bound and surrounded, stood before them, his defiant demeanor faltering in the face of their collective power.I watched with a mix of anticipation and apprehension as the committee began their interrogation, their questions cutting through the air like a sharpened blade. Each inquiry was calculated, designed to dismantle the Don's defenses and extract the truth.One committee member stepped forward, his voice laced with an underlying threat. "Don, your actions have endangered the delicate balance we uphold. You will find no solace in your lies. It is in your best interest to cooperate fully."The Don, visibly shaken by the committee's presence, began to realize the dire consequences of his actions. His bravado waned, and the weight of his guilt pr
My heart dashed with a blend of expectation and worry as Liam masterfully explored the roads, directing our vehicle towards the inn. We needed to regroup and get ready for what lay ahead because the evening's events had taken an unexpected turn.The familiar surroundings provided a brief respite from the earlier chaos as we entered the hotel lobby. The hotel staff quickly attended to our needs because they were aware of the urgency of our movements, as Liam's dominant presence demanded attention.We hurried to our room, the snap of our strides reverberating through the hall. The entryway opened up, uncovering the quiet sanctuary that looked for us. I looked around the room, taking in the exquisite stylistic layout and the unpretentious traces of extravagance that enhanced each corner. In the midst of the chaos all around us, the atmosphere provided a brief respite.We quickly ditched our formal wear in favor of more practical and concealed attire out of a sense of urgency. Our transfo
Alice's POV As the function came to a nearby and the praise bit by bit died down, Liam and I rose from our seats, prepared to leave from the energetic climate of the feast. However, just as we were beginning to move toward the exit, the Italian Don suddenly appeared in front of us, his expression displaying a mix of urgency and sincerity."Please, Mr. and Mrs. Salvador ," the Wear entreated, his voice conveying a dash of earnestness. " I would be honored if you could attend a private gathering with my family and me. There are significant issues I might want to examine with both of you."I traded a confounded look with Liam, vulnerability blurring our considerations. Given the boundaries that separate our organizations, the Don's decision to extend such an invitation was unusual. In any case, interest provoked inside me, blending with a feeling of mindfulness.Liam's hold fixed on my hand, his eyes fixed on the Italian Wear. " What kind of things are you talking about? And why is this
Alice's POV As the banquet got under way, the grand hall was a sight to behold. Gem light fixtures swung from the roof, projecting a warm and charming shine across the room. The air was loaded up with the agreeable tunes of a live ensemble, their music drifting through the space, adding to the mood of the night.Visitors wearing their best clothing blended nimbly, their chuckling and chat resounding in the air. The ringing of glasses and the clacking of flatware made its very own ensemble. Everyone was eagerly awaiting the arrival of the highly regarded Mafia Dons of the American and Russian Mafias.Men from various tables began to approach us as Liam and I settled into our seats, their eyes shining with admiration. However, they had a variety of motives, ranging from genuine appreciation to unwelcome advances. It was a fragile harmony among sweet talk and inconvenience.These men, captivated by my presence, made their way to our table one by one. They couldn't avoid giving me praise
Alice's POV As Liam and I showed up at the stupendous scene of the meal, the expectation in the air was tangible. We joined the line, quietly holding up to enter. There was a lot of excitement and a little bit of mystery in the air. The exquisite design of the scene made a lofty setting, projecting a majestic air over the occasion.I couldn't help but notice the lingering gazes from nearby men and women as we stood in line. Their eyes followed over me with a combination of interest and reverence, their demeanors bound with a bit of want. It was a demonstration of the charm of the event and the striking clothing that embellished me.Feeling the heaviness of those waiting gazes, I looked for comfort in Liam's presence. I was drawn closer to him as his arm encircled me in safety. His touch filled in as a safeguard against the meddlesome eyes, giving a feeling of solace and security in the midst of the ocean of outsiders.With each step in the right direction in the line, I could feel th