BACK TO THE START
by MAMBFF
Disclaimer: The rights to "Vampire Academy" belong to Richelle Mead.
Author's Note: There is some discussion about contracts and how to nullify them. I've no idea if it's actually a legal thing but let's just say it is for fanfiction's sake!
My Facebook Page ( MAMB Fan Fiction) has pictures in an album [Back to The Start] of Lissa and Rose's dresses.
Chapter 5: "Magical"
~VA BTTS VA~
"What are we doing here, again?" I asked Lissa, as she dragged me through the mall.
"Tonight, is their celebration, slash, going away party, so WE are getting new dresses to look hot!" She relayed. "Plus, it's a bit of an open mic night with Karaoke and other bands giving them a send-off." She added. "I really think you should sing something." She urged, pulling me into a store and browsing through the racks at breakneck speed.
"I haven't done that in a while." I commented. The singing that is. I loved the idea of looking super sexy tonight but it was also bittersweet. After tonight, they would be leaving in four days.
"I've noticed, you know." She hinted, her eyes meeting mine.
"Noticed what?" I pressed, as she hung another dress over her arm for the change rooms.
"You've been writing again. In your lyrical poetry journal thing."
Lately, there have been a tumultuous amount of emotions coursing through me and when I was younger, the best way to get those thoughts out was to write. My parents were not very present growing up. Always busy with work. Even now they were on a world-wide vacation. They hadn't been home in over five months. So, it's reasonable that I found an outlet for that frustration when I was younger. My 'lyrical journal'.
It wasn't exactly a journal per se; it was more like little poetry blurbs. A line here, a line there. But for the past two weeks, they've been more rampant and I had what felt like pages of song lyrics. I left said 'journal' at our apartment, not ready to share that with Dimitri. Only because I didn't want to have to talk about my parents and how they'd squashed a part of me. But when I was home, I'd write furiously to get those thoughts out.
"OH Rose! That is so your dress!" She announced, pointing behind me.
"What would I even sing tonight, I mean we don't know what their music catalog is even like." I whined, turning to see the dress she was pointing to. "OH shit! That is so my dress!" I agreed, marching over to the mannequin and fumbling through the hangers on the rack beside where the female form stood. They had my size! Smiling, I plucked it from the rack.
"You have to try that on now!" Lissa urged. "And sing something cute, but sweet." She added, returning to my original question. "Something that is meaningful not just sexy, you know?" She advised.
"Yeah, like what!" I pouted, as Lissa went into the changeroom next to mine with an armful of dresses.
"You'll think of something." She supported. "I think I've found mine, first dress too. I'm ready to show it off, are you?" She called a few moments later, as I heard her door open.
"I think so. I must say this dress makes my boobs looks awesome." I smiled at my reflection before stepping out. "Dimitri is really going to like this." I giggled.
"Rose, that looks amazing." Lissa complimented, signalling for me to spin. "Damn. Dimitri isn't going to be able to stop touching you that." She giggled.
"It has a built-in bust support." I smiled, knowing I'd found my dress.
It was the quintessential 'little black dress'. Hugged my body in all the right places and had thin spaghetti straps and a bit of ruching along the bodice. It was short and ended a few inches below my ass, and was practically backless, except for the thin straps that crossed, reaching ¾ of the way down my back.
"You'll wear those four-inch chunky heels?" Lissa enquired. I nodded.
"OH Liss, that is so gorgeous." I relayed, finally taking in her appearance.
Lissa was not fond of wearing many form-fitting dresses, but she wanted to look more enticing tonight. This blue, A-line dress had some sequins scattered over it and a straight line across her bust. Liss could be self-conscious at times. She had a very adequate bust, but with mine being on the larger side, she didn't like to show it off much. There was a small flap of fabric that draped over her chest, enhancing it and three straps. Spaghetti ones over her shoulders and a third, thin halter style one.
"I've never seen you in something so fit to your body, it looks fantastic!" I complimented. It really did look amazing on her.
"It's not too fancy?" She queried. "I feel like I'm going to some formal cocktail party." She laughed.
"No, I mean you could wear it to such a function but no, it's not too much." I admired.
Changing back into our regular clothes, we checked out and left the mall. Dimitri and the guys were busy finalizing tour plans. They'd even managed to find a company that would supply them with a bus rental.
It wasn't super large like big name bands would use, but it had four bunks for the guys to sleep in that were a lot wider than expected and could fit two if needed, in one. They were pleased it had sufficient storage for their instruments.
The bus contained a fridge, and small kitchenette as well as a bathroom and a satisfactory shower. Although we laughed ourselves silly when doing a tour of it as Dimitri would have to either kneel or sit on his ass to use it. Being as tall as he was, there was no way he'd fit.
There was a table that could turn down into a bed for extra space, and enough seating for all four of them. They'd even hired a driver to make things easier.
"What shoes will you wear?" I posed, as we headed back to Lissa's car.
"Probably those nude pumps. I'd love to wear strappy ones but it's too cold for that." She stated, as we lay our garment bags along the backseat of her car.
When we got back to our apartment, we hung our dresses. "Lunch?" Lissa probed,
"Definitely." I agreed. "The café?" I asked.
Settling into a table, Sydney was in the midst of the lunch rush but we let her know not to worry, we weren't in a hurry. She smiled thankfully as she tried to meet the demands of the other patrons.
"So, Christian said you and Dimitri did a video call with his family?"
"We did, a few days ago." I confirmed. "I was so nervous." I admitted.
"Why?"
"Meeting the family who are thousands of miles away, and me not speaking Russian, it was nerve wracking!" I confessed.
Setting the scene, I shared what had transpired during the call.
"Roza, you ready?" Dimitri asked, as I finished cleaning up from our breakfast mess.
It was 10:30AM for us, meaning it was 7:30PM where Dimitri's family was.
"I'll start in Russian, then switch to English when I introduce you." He explained as we got comfortable on the couch. "Do you want to be in frame when we start?" He queried, his hand on my thigh, rubbing soothingly.
"Ummm…" I started, unsure. "What do you want?" I asked nervously, fidgeting with the edge of my shirt sleeves.
"Don't be nervous, they'll love you." He smiled reassuringly, cupping my cheek. "Just like I do." He added, leaning over to kiss me. "Well, maybe not the same way, I love you, but." He grinned, leaning in and kissing my neck.
I smiled, my hand brushing through his hair. "Okay, in frame, I guess." I agreed as he tugged me closer and held my hand firmly in his.
Looking to his laptop as it sat on the coffee table, he clicked a few things and then the ringing echoed, signalling that he was calling. The smile on his face was beatific as the call connected and his family all started talking at once.
"Dimka!" They chorused together. I couldn't stop the giggle that bubbled up out of me at their excitement.
He tried to calm them but their attention seemed to turn to me. Rapid talk ensued in Russian and I just tried to smile politely, my gaze moving to him and the huge smile on his face. Hearing him speak Russian was such a turn on and I was unconsciously rubbing my thighs together to quell the ache between my legs. I was brought back to attention when I heard him say 'Roza'.
"Mama, Babushka, this is my Roza." He introduced.
"Hi." I smiled shyly with a small wave.
His mother said something in Russian before he reminded her that I don't speak the language.
"I'm sorry! You are beautiful, Roza." His mother smiled.
"Thank you."
"This is my Mama, Olena." He started, "My oldest sister, Karolina." He continued as she waved. "My second oldest sister Sonya, and my younger sister, Viktoria." He finished, as they all gave polite smiles. "And lastly my Babushka, Yeva." He smiled.
The older woman seemed to be appraising me and it made me anxious. My worst fear was them thinking I wasn't good enough for their son and brother.
"Nice to meet you all." I relayed. Dimitri leaned over and kissed my temple, moving his arm around my shoulders comfortingly.
He informed them of the bands tour and how it came about. Trying to downplay Tasha's role, but I wouldn't let him and said as much, telling them more than he probably wanted me to.
"That woman is vile!" Yeva interjected. I noticed she didn't say much but when she did, everyone listened.
"What are you talking about, babushka?" Dimitri asked, anger evident in his tone.
"I don't think she's referring to me, Comrade." I tried to calm, clinging to his bicep as he'd leaned forward.
"Natasha Ozera!" She hollered.
I noticed his mother and sisters seemed to look away at that point and it was a little bit weird.
"Can someone please explain what is going on?" Dimitri asked in frustration.
"Tasha was here in Baia, at the house." Olena began regretfully.
It was clear they hadn't told him on his last call about her visit. We listened as his family talked. Apparently, she showed up at their door, claiming to be close to Dimitri. It was obvious to me now, where she'd picked up the nickname she'd used at 'The Academy' the night we met. 'Dimka' is what his family called him.
"Why the fuck was that whore inserting herself with your family?" I interrupted, unable to shut up any longer. Then I literally facepalmed at my outburst and feared I'd insulted them in some way with my comments.
A loud cackle echoed over the call and I blushed in embarrassment.
"I like you! You don't bullshit." Yeva smiled. "You're good for him." She complimented.
Dimitri laughed at his grandmother's reaction before leaning over and kissing my reddened cheek.
"Thank you, Yeva." I smiled.
"You call me babushka!" She intoned sternly.
"Thank you, babushka." I replied in acquiescence. "But that still doesn't explain what she was doing at your home." I added.
Olena explained that she showed up on their doorstep just over a month and half ago claiming to be friends with Dimitri and insinuating (there was that fucking word again), that they were 'involved'. Dimitri and I had met just over a month ago and Tasha wasn't in town then.
"Mama, I've never touched that woman and I never want to." He relayed, firmly.
"I assumed as much." She nodded. "Besides, you would have mentioned her if there was something more." She added, eying him wearily.
"You've known her for years now because of Christian, yes?" Karolina interjected.
"Yes Karo, and I've been clear with her since we met that I'm not interested." He confirmed. Olena seemed more reassured at that and clearly Tasha had 'insinuated' quite a bit if Olena looked as uneasy as she did.
"She is," Sonya paused. "увлеченный." Sonya interjected. She'd said something in Russian and I didn't know what. "I don't know the English for that." She added, looking to Dimitri.
"Infatuated." He murmured to me and I nodded in understanding.
"What did you do when she showed up?" I asked.
"We set her up in the downstairs spare room." Olena explained. "Although, she tried to claim that Dimka wouldn't mind sharing his room with her." Olena added with crossness and a roll of her eyes.
"She didn't go through his stuff, did she?" I posed, feeling a little possessive.
"No, I lock the door. That little harlot was trouble. Still is!" Yeva called.
"What do you mean she still is, babushka?" Dimitri pressed.
"She calls, goes on and on like we're so close." Viktoria interjected.
"She's calling you? Like on a regular basis?" I pressed.
Viktoria nodded her head. "I usually answer but this last time, she told us."
"Told you what, Vika?" Dimitri urged.
"About your tour. She acted like it's been something you've been planning together." Karolina interjected.
"That skanky little bitch!" I called in irritation.
I heard the light laughter around me, and blushed again at my word vomit.
"Don't answer if she calls again." Dimitri advised. "Screen the calls and let them record on the machine." He added.
Everyone nodded in agreement. "What are you going to do while Dimka's on tour, Roza?" Sonya questioned.
"I have work, so I'll keep busy." I tried to smile through it but I hated this crap ass tour.
"Some think this will part you. But you will be stronger." Yeva interjected.
"What does that mean, babushka?" Viktoria asked with annoyance.
Dimitri thanked them for protecting his privacy from Tasha and apologized for her invading their home. Olena felt bad that she'd let Tasha stay for the night, but she'd arrived at 10:30PM and it was difficult to say 'no'. Plus, Olena was clearly way too nice to be rude to her.
"I love my Roza." He declared. "There is no one else." He added. "But with this tour, there is the possibility that images with fans or Tasha trying to imply something with a photo will be out there on social media." He offered in explanation. "Please trust that anything implied is unlikely. I would never do that to, Roza." He stated definitively.
"I love you, Comrade." I smiled, kissing his cheek.
"I love you, too." He returned, kissing my temple.
When we turned our attention back to his family, they were looking at us with knowing smiles.
"I might not be able to check in as often, but I'll try to keep our monthly calls." He supplied.
"If you don't have time, that's okay. You call your Roza instead." Olena instructed as the rest of them nodded in agreement, almost looking like a group of bobble heads.
"If anything, I'll text you or email." He finished.
They wished him well and asked me to keep in contact as well, ordering Dimitri to give them my cell phone number and email address so they could keep in touch.
Lissa looked at me in shock. "Tasha just showed up at his family's house like that?" She asked in horror. ", told them about the tour too? I can't believe her."
"It also explains where she picked up her little 'nickname' for him. They all call him 'Dimka'." I relayed as Sydney approached us, finally.
We placed our lunch orders, but I had to get going sooner rather than later. My shift at the gym started in forty-five minutes.
"I'll meet you in the green room with your dress, and help you get ready." She relayed, dropping me off at the gym thirty-five minutes later.
"Thanks, Liss." I called as she drove off.
The gym was crazy busy today. But that seemed pretty normal for a Saturday.
"Guardian Hathaway." Alberta greeted.
"Hi, Guardian Petrov." I smiled in reply after finishing a walk round the floor, checking in on members.
"Can you come to my office for a moment?" She asked. I followed willingly and she closed the door after me, gesturing for me to take a seat.
"Is something wrong?" I posed.
"No, I just wanted to update you on the Zeklos situation." She relayed.
Last week, the Sunday following the attack, I'd given my statement to the police and they seemed mollified that my recollection of events paired up with the video evidence. One thing I was not aware of was the video also had audio. Jesse was facing some harsh charges and would likely be doing some time. His father, on the other hand, had tried to pay Alberta to hush it up. Instead of taking his offer she reported him as well. I wasn't sure what kind of charges could actually be brought against him but it seems Alberta felt strongly about it.
"So, I've made a report to the same officers who took your statement. I doubt any charges will be brought to Zeklos Sr., but I wanted it on record." She concluded adding that she shared information in her statement about the other members who had gone on record to report Jesse for his behaviour at the gym.
That I could definitely understand. She wanted that paper trail of evidence.
"There is something else." She began and I sat quietly, allowing her to continue.
Alberta shared that this past Thursday, Dimitri's last shift before the tour started, she'd asked to speak to him because he'd appeared so morose during his shift. I was there for my shift as well and had to agree, he looked solemn but there wasn't much that could be done when at work.
He'd confessed his frustration over Tasha and how the tour came about and then the contract details and how she was basically stealing from them.
"They just want her contract to run out so they can be done with her." I offered.
"Be that as it may, there may be a way for it to end sooner." Alberta shared.
"How so?" I pressed.
Alberta detailed that as a gym owner, she was invested in a few different contracts with companies for things like the equipment used, down to the stuff they peddle, like water bottles and protein powders, as well as merchandise like clothing. The gym did have a small gift shop with these items but it wasn't overly large. Her point was, they did not have to keep to the agreement if one of the clauses in the contract was breached, particularly the one about a crime.
These contracts had similar stipulations to what might be expected between Dimitri, the band and Tasha. The simple basics that a majority of contracts would have by default. Meaning every contract would have these prerequisites.
"Let's just say if Ms. Ozera finds herself arrested for some sort of crime, that could very likely nullify the contract." She finished.
"I don't understand how that nullifies it." I confessed.
"Tell Dimitri to check the fine print in the classification section regarding her role." Alberta stated. She pulled a copy of a contract out from her drawer to show me the example.
"Are you saying if Tasha commits a crime, she's out?" I asked for clarification.
"Yes and no. She doesn't necessarily have had to have committed a crime, but being arrested and held without bail, yes." She clarified. "Being held without bail would constitute the likely hood of charges being brought and that is the breach." She added. "If there is a chance, she is guilty, the other party, in this case the band, could nullify the contract on the grounds of not wanting to be associated with a criminal. I know that doesn't sound technical but that's the basics of it." She reiterated.
"Shit." My mind was racing wondering if Dimitri would press charges for sexual harassment. But I wasn't sure that would mean she'd be held without bail. I seriously doubted it. She also stalked his family half way across the world. But then that's a jurisdiction problem.
"Have him read over their original contract and point that out."
"I will. Thank you." I finished.
"Rose, there is one other thing that he might not know about contracts, but again this is something that you'd have to look at to see if this clause is in it." She continued.
Alberta laid out that if the contract was expiring and they had no plans to renew. They may be allowed to allocate the duties to a possible replacement. Tasha would have no say in this. But Alberta was adamant that not all contracts include this clause but it was more than possible. It would be in the same classification section for roles.
For the rest of my shift, I was feeling a lot happier at possibly having a way to get Tasha ousted. Something occurred to me and was brewing in my mind. I would keep it to myself until later but this might be an answer no one realized they needed, or had right in front of them.
The news was promising because if the contract with Tasha as their manager was nullified, Alberta explained that any extenuating contracts, like the tour contract, would exclude her from earning any profits from it. Meaning the guys would get 100% of their tour proceeds at that point.
By 8:30PM I was ready to be done with this shift so I could head to their party. I was helping a newer member learn how to work the treadmill. It could look complicated upon a first glance but once you got the hang of it, it was like second nature.
She smiled gratefully. "Oh, thank you." She smiled. "I feel so silly sometimes having to ask, but once you know it's obvious." She laughed.
"You're welcome." I smiled as I turned towards the front of the gym.
Smiling wide, I saw my Russian Sex God swaggering in and took a moment to appreciate the view. His jeans sat low on his hips and the dark charcoal grey of his preferred Henley peaked out from his dark brown leather duster.
"Damn." I heard behind me, and turned to see treadmill girl looking at him appreciatively as she stumbled.
I smirked, heading over. Dimitri paused in his steps when he saw me approaching. "Hi, beautiful." He smiled; those dimples I loved so much on full display.
"Hi, handsome." I grinned as he pulled me into his arms, leaning down to kiss me sweetly.
"How are things at the bar?" I asked, moving to grab my water bottle from the front counter.
"Ivan's gone all out. We have a table just to the side of the dance floor." He explained. "A couple of the weekday bands are set to perform a couple songs and then there's the karaoke." He finished.
I nodded. I hadn't told him that Lissa was going to be signing me up for the karaoke. "Lissa is going to help me get ready in the green room, so I'll meet you at the table?"
"Hmmmmhmmm…" He confirmed, nuzzling my neck, his hands on my hips.
"I'm trying to work." I giggled, but really not trying at all to pull away from him. I mean who would want to.
Hans joined us a moment later from the back office and smiled, shaking his head. "Go on, get out of here!" He called with a smile, waving me off.
"Thank you!" I called, noticing that it was just past 8:30PM. "I'll come in a half hour earlier on Tuesday." I relayed as I headed into the employee locker room to get my belongings.
Dimitri was chatting with Hans when I came back out front. "Ready?" He asked, reaching out a hand.
Slipping mine into his, we left the gym. The car was cold, so Dimitri blasted the heat. We sat idling while the car warmed up and I decided now was a good time to share the intel Alberta had shared with me about nullifying the contracts. He would need to look over the contract to confirm the section she mentioned but that wasn't a problem as he apparently kept a copy of it in the safe in Ivan's office.
"What could she possibly be arrested for?" He wondered, finally putting the car into gear and heading off.
"That's the hard part." I replied.
He seemed to be mulling it over. "She could be arrested for public intoxication."
"I doubt it, and I don't think anything will happen before you have to leave." I relayed. "But she likes to think she has dibs on you, so if she became belligerent or violent on tour…" I trailed off.
"I hear you. I'll mention it to the guys but will check over the contract first." He confirmed, parking in front of his apartment building.
It was just starting to rain, so we jogged the block up to the bar and into the back entrance. I was shaking the rain off me as Dimitri held the green room door open for me.
"Thank you." I smiled, leaning up to kiss the underside of his jaw as I passed. I wasn't tall enough to reach his cheek.
"You're early!" Lissa called excitedly. "You go, her look is to be a surprise." She ordered, looking at Dimitri sternly.
"Yes, ma'am." He replied, moving to kiss me first.
"Go get the contract and look it over." I suggested. He nodded, and kissed me one more time with Christian trailing after him asking what I was talking about.
We locked the side door to the green room after they left so Tasha couldn't waltz in. Immediately, I pulled Lissa into my confidence.
I rushed out everything Alberta had shared as she started the shower in the bathroom telling me to wash up. Lissa stood at the door frame, her back to me as I washed, still talking and telling her everything I'd learned.
"That could work." She nodded. "It's the arrest and held without bail part that is the problem." She mentioned, seemingly talking to herself.
"Liss," I called, trying to get her attention as I wrapped a towel around myself.
"I have an idea." I started, relaying the second part to her about allocating the duties. "You're clearly not happy working for Tatiana, right?" I pressed. That's when a light bulb seemed to go off.
"I'll fucking quit and be their 'acting manager'. She squealed. "No contract needed from me, I will be on a probationary period for the whole of the tour, and if they're satisfied with my work, we can negotiate something." She smiled with glee. "Rose, you're brilliant!" She gushed as I turned around again as I pulled on my little black dress.
"And you said 'fucking'." I teased with a smile.
"Fucking right I did!" She said with a laugh. "We need to tell them about this now!" She urged. "Wait, is that why you suggested he go look at the contract now?" She added.
"Yes, he'll explain to the guys now and when we join them, after Dimitri feels me up because, I mean look at me." I giggled. "I'll share the secondary part and the allocation duties." I finalized.
Lissa attended my hair. Thinking ahead, she had packed a hair dryer and proceeded to help tame my curls. It was long and wavy as it cascaded down my back.
"Liss?" I called, to get her attention. We couldn't really talk with the hair dryer going.
"Hmmmm?" She replied, putting the finishing touches on my hair.
"Email your notice in right now to that counsel woman, tonight." I pushed. "Then it leaves you free and clear." I added. "If they know you've already quit, they're more likely to agree." I reasoned.
"I don't want to guilt them into it." She replied.
"Of course not, that's not what I mean! Only mention that you've already quit if they ask about that job." I clarified.
Lissa smiled, nodding in agreement. "I need to go see Ivan. He probably has a copy but we need to be sure it has that clause you said Alberta mentioned before I put in my notice."
"Right, you go do that, I'll finish up here."
Lissa was barely gone fifteen minutes when she returned with a photocopy of the page in question. "Ivan is so excited at the idea, but he promised not to say anything until we do." She regaled, handing over the copy.
"You do know this means you can go on tour with them, with Christian." I pointed out.
"Only if they accept." She stated. "I don't want to get too excited in case they say no." She added.
"I can't see them not agreeing, but let's not mention this in front of Skanksha…" I added.
"Why not? Maybe she'll get violent, and then get arrested." She snickered.
"Oh, mi God, you're so devious tonight! Have you been drinking already?" I teased as she deemed me ready to go after helping me apply some mascara and my favourite lip gloss.
After slipping on my chunky, four-inch heels, Lissa and I left the green room through the door that led towards the stage. We wanted to keep the main green room door locked so Tasha couldn't creep in there again.
Lissa accessed the stage first, as they'd already seen her all dressed up. She waited for a moment.
"What are you doing?" I asked.
"Waiting until they're looking this way." She replied. "Okay." She added, stepping out of the way and down the stairs.
I watched as Dimitri's eyes traversed my body and I felt myself shiver under his gaze as his jaw dropped. He jumped up from the table, immediately walking over. I hadn't even stepped to the stairs when he'd reached up, gripping my waist, gently lifting me down from the stage.
"Fuck, Roza." He murmured, his arms wrapping around me. "You look so damn beautiful, sexy, amazing." He ranted, bending and nuzzling my neck. I giggled, wrapping my arms around his shoulders as he moved his head, his lips grazing the tops of my breasts and his hands moving over the exposed skin on my back.
"Thanks, Comrade." I smiled. "Kiss me." I smirked as he did just that before leading me over to the table.
"DAMN! Nice, Little Hottie!" I heard from the left. I recognized him as the bouncer.
"Adrian, stop referring to my girlfriend as 'little hottie', please." Dimitri interjected, shaking his head.
"Why, it's the truth!" He replied, his eyes raking over my body and settling on my chest.
Dimitri wrapped his arm around me protectively, his forearm, essentially covering my cleavage. "Because it makes her uncomfortable. You just don't realize that." He finalized, seating himself in a chair and pulling me to sit sideways on his lap.
I noticed out of the corner of my eye that Adrian walked off. Adrian was nice enough but he did stare at me a lot. Dimitri was right, it made me uncomfortable. But I only wanted to dress sexy for my Comrade.
"I don't want to take my hands off you." He murmured against my neck.
We were in our own little bubble for a few moments and the table was eerily quiet.
"So," I started, looking around at the guys, before turning back to Dimitri with a questioning look on my face.
"I told them." He nodded.
"Rose," Eddie started. "Maybe you can piss her off and she'll hit you, then you can press charges." He stated jokingly.
"Not likely." I laughed. "Just keep an eye on her for anything illicit." I relayed. "I mean for all we know she uses illegal drugs." I offered.
"Rose has some other information, but wanted to wait to share until you were all together." Lissa relayed from her seat next to Christian. I could tell she was excited at the prospect of touring with them.
Taking a deep breath, I once again went over what Alberta had shared about allocating the duties when a contract was expiring with one person. Then recommending that someone take an active place on their tour in a probationary role. Just as Lissa had suggested to me in the green room.
"This would mean they'd have to be on tour with us, right?" Mason interjected.
I nodded. "Yes."
"Wait, wait, this is only worth discussing if that clause is in our contract." Christian spoke.
Reaching between my boobs, I pulled out the folded copy. "It is!" I grinned.
"Fucking hell." Dimitri muttered a small smile on his lips as he leaned in and kissed my neck. His grip on my waist tightened a little as the rest of the guys laughed.
"I went and spoke to Ivan. He had a copy. So, I printed off that section. You do indeed have that clause in your contract with Tasha." Lissa relayed confidently. "You can allocate anyone you want in a manager role and she can't do anything about it." Lissa stated with a smile.
"And you have someone in mind?" Christian posed, looking doubtful.
"I do. I know them well, so do you." I smiled. "I know they would do a great job because they honestly would have your best interests in mind. In fact, they already have your best interests in mind as they found this copy." I added, dropping the hint. "She's already helped you with your social media accounts, too." I finalized, dropping another clue and looking at Lissa.
"Me!" She smiled, holding her hands up in a 'surprise', gesture.
"You know her well; her job is literally to do PR work. She can do this for you and there won't be any bullshit." I interjected.
You couldn't miss the smile on Christian's face at the idea. Dimitri was pleased as well, and said as much. "Well done, Roza." He murmured, pressing his lips to my neck.
"Wait, what about your job with that Tatiana woman?" Eddie queried.
"I quit. I put in my notice already. I hate it there." She relayed.
"Give us a moment to talk it over." Mason asked. I moved to stand from Dimitri's lap and I was barely at the end of the table when they chorused behind me.
"We agree!" They smiled gleefully.
"Really?" Lissa asked as Christian stood pulling her into his arms. I laughed loudly. Their moment to talk it over was hilariously, barely fifteen seconds.
I sat back down but beside Dimitri this time. "I want food now." I informed.
Everyone was talking amongst themselves after Mia came by to take our food order. Dimitri couldn't stop running one hand over my back, his fingers ghosting over my exposed skin.
"You like this dress?" I teased, turning my chair to be closer to him.
"Fuck, yes." He growled, leaning over to kiss me. When he pulled back, he pressed his forehead to mine. "I want to ask something." He confessed.
"Of course, what?" I smiled as he cupped my cheek in one hand, his eyes gazing into mine.
"When we're away, I know I'm going to miss you like crazy." He started. "And I know you will too, love. I just…" He trailed off.
"I have keys, Dimitri. You know I'll be staying at your place; I'll even check your mail for you." I teased. "Of course, I will be at mine and Lissa's too but I guarantee I'll be at your place more."
Dimitri grinned. "I love you, Roza. But that's not what I was going to ask." He laughed. "That is a given." He paused. "I wanted to know if you'd check in with my Mama? Email you know?" He asked shyly. "Maybe video call her?"
"Hey, of course I will." I asserted, standing from my chair and climbing back into his lap.
After dinner, we sat back getting ready for the first band to take the stage. They were a cute all girl rock group that liked to cover Gwen Stefani songs from her time with 'No Doubt'. They performed 'Sunday Morning' and were pretty decent but had had too much to drink and fumbled at bits. Thankfully they only had one song to play.
Two other bands took the stage. One playing the cover of the Eurythmics, 'Sweet Dreams (Are made of this)', but the Marilyn Manson version. Another likened themselves to Bon Jovi and covered their hit, 'It's My Life'.
Ivan was acting as the MC tonight and started up the karaoke portion of the night after the last band. A group of three girls were called to the stage and tried, bless their hearts, to perform TLC's 'Red Light Special'. Their desperation in trying to act sultry was embarrassing to watch. They made it clear that they were fans of 'Stakes of Fire' by showing more cleavage than me and blowing kisses to the guys. Trust me when I say I was showing quite a bit of cleavage.
Eddie and Mason loved it but both Christian and Dimitri blushed. "That was so embarrassing to watch." Dimitri vocalized, his arm around my chair as he played with my curls.
The girls approached after their performance, asking a couple photos. They guys did their thing and before any of them could try to invite themselves to sit, Dimitri pulled me back into his lap and turned to talk to Mason. He wasn't rude but simply being clear. His actions were basically saying, 'thanks, but no'.
I noticed Ivan looking my way covertly. "Next up, we're going to slow it down for you guys, so any couples looking for a little love, head to the dance floor!" He called as a few people meandered over.
"This next young lady has a special place in the heart of our lead singer, Dimitri Belikov!" He called. Dimitri's head snapped up to Ivan, paying closer attention. "Please welcome to the stage, Rose Hathaway!" He hollered, clapping wildly.
Lissa started hooting and hollering while the guys looked shocked.
"Surprise!" I replied, leaning over to kiss Dimitri's cheek before heading up.
"Thanks Ivan." I smiled as he stepped to the side after passing me the microphone.
Turning to the audience, I settled my gaze on Dimitri. "I'm going to need someone up here to serenade to." I announced.
"Me! Me!" I heard as someone charged and jumped up on stage.
"Fuck off Adrian!" I shouted. The entire place erupted in laughter and I shook my head, smiling down at our table. "Guess I said that a little too loud into the mic." I blushed. "Dimitri…" I purred into the microphone. "Get that sexy ass up here, Comrade." I crooned.
He smiled, widely as he sauntered over, pulling up the sleeves of his Henley. He jumped up onto the stage as Ivan set a stool down next to me. I signalled for him to sit.
"Sorry if you won't like this." I started, addressing the audience. "But too fucking bad, it's karaoke not American Idol." I relayed, turning my gaze back to Dimitri as the opening chords of the song started. He smiled sweetly after a small chuckle at my words, and I took a breath. I was so nervous for some reason.
Reaching out, he held my hand as I began.
One look at you, my whole life falls in line
I prayed for you before I called you mine
Dimitri's gaze was intense and the smile was gone from his lips. Realizing this wasn't some seduction song like the TLC girls. His eyes held a look of tenderness and adoration I couldn't describe.
Oh, I can't believe it's true sometimes
Oh, I can't believe it's true
I get to love you
It's the best thing that I'll ever do
I continued, my eyes not leaving his. He turned on the stool so the audience would see his profile before pulling me to stand between his legs. I realized I could also see the audience a bit rather than them focusing on my ass.
I get to love you
It's a promise I'm makin' to you
Whatever may come, your heart, I will choose
Forever I'm yours, forever I do
I get to love you, I get to love you
Dimitri wrapped his arms around my waist, our foreheads almost touching. They would have if not for the microphone.
The way you love, it changes who I am
I am undone, and I thank God once again
Dimitri smiled at that lyric, and bent closer, kissing my cheek.
Oh, I can't believe it's true sometimes
Oh, I can't believe it's true
I pulled his head to my chest and he nuzzled his face into my neck as I turned slightly to the audience.
I get to love you
It's the best thing that I'll ever do
I get to love you
It's a promise I'm makin' to you
Whatever may come, your heart, I will choose
He raised his head and I saw his eyes glistening.
Forever I'm yours, forever I do
I get to love you, I get to love you
I get to love you, I get to love you
Raising my other hand, I cupped his cheek.
And they say love is a journey
I promise that I'll never leave
When it's too heavy to carry
Remember this moment with me
I get to love you
I get to love you
I get to love you
I get to love you
Before I could finish the last line completely, his mouth was on mine. "Roza," He mumbled against my lips. "I'm so fucking in love with you." He declared, kissing me once more as I felt Ivan slip the microphone from my hand.
"I'm so fucking in love with you too." I cried, wrapping my arms around his shoulders.
"That was so…" He struggled to find the words. "Magical." He decided, hugging me close.
We took a few minutes to gather ourselves as Ivan got the crowd going. They clapped and applauded enthusiastically as he praised my little performance. I gave a little curtsey while Dimitri jumped down before turning to lift me down as well.
"You sing!?" Mason called in amazement when we returned to the table.
"Not well." I tried to say but was interrupted by everyone talking over one another.
"You have a beautiful voice."
"You need to sing more!"
"Rose, you have to do a song with us!"
I went to sit in my chair, but Dimitri pulled me into his lap.
"Roza." He murmured. "You have no idea how much that meant to me." He relayed. I could see his eyes shining with unshed tears. "I really fucking hate that I have to leave you." He admitted. But it was something we already knew he hated. I did too.
"I know, Comrade. We'll be fine though, you know why?" I asked.
"Why?" He smiled, albeit a little solemnly.
"Because," I started. "I get to love you." I replied cheekily, quoting the lyrics.
"And I get to love you." He grinned in return, pressing his lips to mine eagerly.
A few others took the stage and a bit of a sing-a-long was happening when some of their fans approached, asking for photos and autographs. Dimitri was reluctant to leave me but I assured him it was fine.
I side eyed some of the girls as they got handsy but thankfully, Lissa stepped in and asked them to respect their space. Watching her in a 'manager' role was kind of exciting. They were getting a taste of what she could and would do for them on tour. Something as simple as asking the girls to be more respectful of their personal space went a long way.
Just before midnight I was cradled in Dimitri's arms as I sat on his lap once more. Since my performance he hasn't wanted to let me go and I was cherishing every minute of it. I loved being in his arms and while it was rather public, their impeding departure made these moments few and far between. Physical contact seemed to ease that slight ache.
Tasha made an appearance, unfortunately, and you couldn't help but stare at her; not in a good way. I thought my dress was a boobie dress and short, but surprise, surprise, Slutasha managed to find a lower cut and shorter dress. The bigger issue was the fact that it didn't look like she was wearing underwear. I mean I wasn't either, but come on. Things were covered for me.
Thankfully, she sat on one of the open seats away from Dimitri and I, when a few patrons approached.
"Hi," One of the girls said meekly. "Would you sing something else?" She asked. "We know you guys are going on tour but your song earlier was so beautiful and sweet and there is this other song that would be so amazing." They gushed.
"She can't sing." Tasha interjected. I rolled my eyes and I felt Dimitri's grip tighten around me.
"OH! You mean me!?" I replied in surprise ignoring Tasha's comment. She and her friend nodded enthusiastically. "You have something in mind?" I posed and they nodded again.
I could feel Dimitri lean in and kiss my neck. "You should." He murmured supportively.
"I'll be back." I said, slipping from Dimitri's lap. He stood as well and mentioned he was going to the rest room.
Clearly that was the only way to avoid Tasha if I wasn't with him. I followed the girls as they approached Ivan near the DJ booth.
"Hey girls, you're up in a few." He smiled.
"Actually, we'd like to give our spot to Rose." They shared. "And we have a different song for her." They added.
"I don't know what I'm singing, but they asked." I smiled.
Leaning over, the ringleader whispered in my ear if I knew the song and I nodded. They giggled excitedly and shared with Ivan before moving off to the side so they could watch. Ivan let the DJ know before turning to me.
"Where'd D go?" He questioned noticing he wasn't at our table.
"Washroom. Twat waffle showed up and he didn't want to get cornered."
He laughed at my nickname for Tasha before his face turned serious. "Your plan is going to work you know. She'll do something crazy because Lissa will take charge. Tasha won't expect anything to come of her actions."
"Yeah, but sadly not before they leave for the tour."
"No, likely not." He agreed. "There he is." Ivan said, waiving an arm at Dimitri. He sauntered over and slipped his arm around my waist.
"Let's get up there." Ivan directed. Dimitri lifted me up onto the stage as Ivan took the side stairs. I watched as Dimitri moved to the side and leaned against the wall; arms crossed.
"How's everybody doing!?" He hollered as the audience went crazy. "There has been a request, that our lovely Rose sing another song." He added and if it were possible, they went even a little more nuts.
I was honestly surprised by this, I hated the sound of my voice, but apparently, they really enjoyed it.
"Give it up for Rose!" Ivan clapped, moving back to the DJ booth after setting the microphone in the stand, centre stage.
I stepped up and placed my hands over the microphone as the opening chords started.
Saturday, empty room, filled with people
It don't mean a thing
You and I, holding hands
Nobody knows, nobody understands
I don't care for sunlight
That only means it's over
I'm in no mood for that
Stay tonight
Don't come morning, don't come light
They may be lies, say, say that we'll be alright
If we stay tonight
My hands are shaking
This is a complicated love with me
Keep your eyes closed, I've seen it baby
I've seen where this goes
Stay tonight
Don't come morning, don't come light
They may be lies, but say that we'll be alright
If we stay tonight
Gonna feel it baby
Oh I don't wanna cry
I know we'll get to tomorrow and say goodbye
That's what I'm asking for
Tonight
Stay tonight
Don't come morning, don't come light
They may be lies but say that we'll be alright
Say that we're gonna be alright
Say that we're gonna be alright
Tonight
I was so into the song that I barely looked up. But when the final note played out, I swear you could hear a pin drop. It was so quiet as I stepped back and I felt like crying at the silence. I knew it wouldn't be that good.
Then, a thunderous roar echoed around me and I started laughing like a loon. Dimitri climbed the stairs and brushed away the few tears I had let escape.
"You have no idea how amazing you are." He complimented. "No idea." He murmured, pulling me into his arms again and peppering my face with kisses, making me giggle.
"Thank you." I smiled into his neck before he set me back on my feet. I could see Tasha glaring at us but turned away to ignore her. She wasn't going to ruin this for me.
A couple hours later, it was half past 2AM and the bar was closing at 3AM. Dimitri and I gathered our things from the green room and made a point of ignoring Trampsha. Surprisingly, she didn't attempt anything with Dimitri, then again, she thought she was going to get him alone when on tour. If she only knew.
When Lissa and I packed our things for tonight, we neglected to think of coats. Well, I did at least. Dimitri placed his duster over my shoulders but it was so long it just barely brushed the ground. If it weren't for my heels, I'd probably be dragging it.
Secluded in his apartment, I slipped the duster off and he hung it next to the door.
The air was thick with sexual tension as Dimitri moved closer while I slowly stepped towards him. Wanting nothing more than for him to finally peel this dress off and have his way with me.
"I want…" He growled, slipping his arms around my waist and pressing his face into my neck, kissing and sucking ravenously.
"What do you want, Comrade?" I purred, running my hands through his hair as I tilted my head back to give him more access.
"I want to make love to you tonight." He murmured. "Slow…" He added, lifting me into his arms. I wrapped my legs around his hips as he walked us down the hall to his bedroom.
Our eyes were locked on one another's intensely as he gently set me down near the bed. Dimitri's hands trailed down my back and I shivered as his fingertips gently grazed the bare skin that was exposed.
Suddenly, he tugged on the straps and pulled them off my shoulders as he peeled the dress down. He pressed his face between my breasts, kissing me tenderly before taking first one, then the other nipple between his lips, sucking lightly.
He needed to push a little harder to get the tight material of the dress over my hips and I heard him curse in Russian when it was finally clear to him that not only was I not wearing a bra but no panties either.
"Fuck, Roza." He growled as be crouched down in front of me. "You were naked under that little dress the whole night?" He groaned.
Looking up, our eyes met before he leaned in and pressed his lips to my thigh, just above my knee. Dimitri ran his hands along the backs of my legs and down again before gently slipping off each of my shoes. I dug my toes into the carpet of his floor as his lips continued to trail over my inner thigh.
Needing to brace myself, I rested one my hands on his shoulder, the other in his hair, guiding him. Afraid I would collapse, the grip on his shoulder tightened, as his hands continued higher. He rested them on the back of my thighs, his fingers teasing me as he ghosted them over my sex from behind. His face nudged against my thigh and I opened my legs to his mouth.
"Dimitri," I pleaded. "Kiss me…" I panted.
The next thing I knew, his mouth was on my pussy, licking between my folds. When he finally took my clit between his lips, flicking his tongue over my sensitive nub he pressed two fingers into me and I could feel my legs about to buckle.
Sensing my inability to keep myself standing, he laid me back on the bed. Not once did his lips move away from my pussy as I thrust against his eager fingers.
"Come for me, Roza." He purred as his quickened the thrust of his fingers.
My legs tightened around his shoulders as he continued to lap at my clit as I shook from the orgasm. He licked up every bit of my release before slowly kissing and crawling up my body.
"You have way too many clothes on, Comrade." I pointed out.
Reaching behind him, he pulled his Henley over his shoulders and tossed it. I unbuckled his belt and fumbled with the button and zipper on his jeans as he kicked off his shoes. Climbing away from me reluctantly, he shed the rest of his clothes, tugged off his socks and even removed his watch.
Pulling back the covers, he lifted me into the bed and climbed in, tugging the cover over us, behind him. Shifting my legs so they wrapped around his hips, I felt him settle between my spread legs.
"I love you." He murmured, staring at me with such tenderness.
There was something in his gaze. Like he was trying to remember every moment and burn it into his mind.
"I love you too." I smiled, running my hands up his arms and over his shoulders.
When my hands found purchase in his hair, I tugged him down and finally our lips brushed ever so softly. I could feel how hard he was against my thigh and reached down to stroke him. Dimitri wasn't kidding when he said he wanted to make love tonight. Everything about the way he touched me was seductive, slow and loving.
Our lips were caught in a dance as our tongues languidly stroked the others slowly. We pulled apart from the kiss when we needed to take a breath. He rested his forehead against my temple, his eyes piercing into mine. Reaching out, he fumbled with the bedside table before bringing his arm back with a condom in hand.
Cupping his face, I pressed my lips to his once more and took the foil packet from his hand. He braced himself on his elbows so as not to crush me, while I slipped it over his cock, tightening my grip at his base and stroking a few times.
"Roza," He panted.
"Make love to me, Comrade." I implored, running my hands through his hair as he nuzzled his face into my neck.
Moments later, I felt him start to slide his cock between my folds and he was going so slow. When he was finally completely sheathed inside of me, he lifted my legs a bit higher around his hips before bringing my hands above my head and clasping our hands together. He smiled down at me and started to gently rock his hips.
His thrusts were slow but long and hard and our chests were pressed so firmly against one another's there wasn't an inch of our bodies that wasn't touching the others. The sensitivity of my aroused nipples felt every movement as his body slid against mine as I met his hips, thrust for thrust. Every now and then he would release one of my hands to hitch my leg just a little higher over his hip, causing him to hit just that right spot.
I could feel an orgasm approaching and I knew he could tell. His hips moved faster bringing me to another release, before he slowed right down again. Kissing me slowly and tenderly as he continued to move inside me, prolonging his own pleasure.
Dimitri made me come one more time before he finally started moving harder and faster, seeking his own release. Releasing my other hand, he pinched and plucked at my nipples before sucking each into his mouth and laving at the hardened peaks. Gripping my hands in his again, he bent his head sucked at the aroused flesh of my breast, leaving his mark once more.
"Dimitri," I cried, feeling the familiar sensation in my belly. I was going to come again.
There was something about the way he moved that was different. It really was making love and not like our typical fucking and various positions. He simply wanted to revel in this moment for as long as possible. Our bodies were slick with a sheen of sweat but it felt so good.
"Roza, Roza." He chanted. "I'm coming." He growled. "One more time for me, love." He urged, releasing one my hands and pressing his lips to mine for a short sweet kiss.
Lowering his arm, he licked his thumb before tenderly pressing it against my clit, bringing another wave of pleasure as I felt my walls constricting around his cock. His body stilled a moment later and he grunted into my neck, spilling his own release.
Slipping my other hand from his, I wrapped my arms around his shoulders and pulled him against me.
"Thank you," I smiled as he rolled us, so he wouldn't crush me. "That was so fucking perfect." I giggled.
His gaze was soft and he was completely sated as he slipped himself out of me. Grabbing a tissue from the bedside table, he dealt with the mess of the condom before tucking me into his side. Resting my head on his shoulder, I started tracing lazy circles over the muscles in his abdomen.
The room was quiet as we just lay there appreciating the silence and the time to be alone and away from the drama.
"Roza," He spoke, slipping his hand into mine that was lazily running over his abs. "How come you didn't tell me you could sing like that?" He asked. I turned to look up at him and saw a slightly crestfallen look on his face.
"I just." I paused. "Comrade, I've never liked my voice." I replied. Though that wasn't the real reason and I wondered if I should just tell him the truth.
That's when I realized that I could. He would support me no matter what, he's proven that. So, I summarized what had really kept me from saying anything.
"Actually, that's not completely true." I started. "When I was younger and had mentioned to my parents about wanting to major in music in college, they were so against it. Said I had no talent." I revealed holding back an unexpected sob I didn't expect would be there. "I sort of let them dictate things back then and pushed the music stuff to the side." I paused to gauge his reaction.
Reaching over, he brushed his thumb across my cheek, taking with a few tears. "You wanted to sing?" He asked.
"Yes." I confirmed. "And write."
"You know, you can do that now." He suggested, running his other hand through my hair as I snuggled closer to his chest.
"Thanks to you, Comrade, the inspiration to try writing again is back." I confessed. But I wasn't sure if I wanted to share my lyrical journal, as Lissa liked to refer to it.
"Do you write often?" He questioned as the hand that was clasping mine on his abdomen, moved to lift my leg over his hip. He turned slightly so he could run his hand over my hip, down over my backside and down to my knee; hooking my leg over him.
"Sort of." I started. "I kind of have this journal. Lissa likes to call it my lyrical journal but it's just like poetry bits and pieces." I confessed. "But I don't show it to anyone. Not even Lissa." I shared.
"You don't have to share it, love." He assuaged, leaning over and kissing my forehead.
"So," I began. "Tonight, was different." I smiled. "Two hours, Dimitri?" I giggled as he chuckled beside me. The sun was literally just making an appearance when I realized that he had been making love to me for hours, not wanting it to end.
"There's just a few things I want to do with you before I have to leave." He shared. "That was one of them." He smirked, but there was a hint of sadness behind his eyes.
"What else do you want to do with me?" I teased.
"Well, I'd like for us to go on an actual fucking date!" He smiled and I giggled at the realization that we really had not had a formal date yet.
"I think we can manage that. Anything else?" I pressed. "We have three days left, don't we?" I asked sadly.
He nodded. "I want to make you breakfast in bed. Something my Mama made me all the time." He smiled.
"What?"
"It's something called blini. It's like a pancake but better." He teased.
"We should cook them together. You can teach me." I suggested brushing some fallen hair off his forehead.
"I like that idea." He agreed, tugging the blankets around his more securely. "We should get some sleep, baby. I have a bunch of crap I have to take care of tomorrow." He relayed.
"So, no blini tomorrow? Or I guess, later today." I pressed.
"No, we'll do blini later." He confirmed, leaning down to kiss me. "I'll do my errands after that."
"What do you have to do?" I questioned.
"Checking the bus rental stuff out and Christian wanted to go over the final set list with the guys. We need to lock it down." He relayed. I nodded my head feeling a yawn coming on.
"I need to do laundry." I yawned again. "Groceries with Lissa." I added.
"Sleep, worry about it later." He comforted.
I hadn't quite fallen asleep yet when something came to mind that Dimitri had to do before he left too.
"Dimitri?" I asked quietly.
"Hmmmm…" He mumbled.
"There is one more thing you have to do before you guys leave." I stated.
"What's that?" He questioned, running a hand along my hip.
"Show me how to work your fucking shower!?" He chuckled loudly.
"I will, my Roza."
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Songs: "I Get to Love You" by Ruelle | "Stay" by Sara Bareilles