Welllllll….. I was not planning on taking this much of a break, but life kind of gave me an ultimatum that turned into the biggest hurdle of my life. To the point that I want to leave my country and go somewhere that will appreciate my capability and inclusion. I've lost so many family members in the invasion of Ukraine. Was actually there for a funeral for a General, my Great Uncle. Who gave his all to defend his country from the invasion of a tyranny.
But that's the world we live in I guess.
Either way. I hope this chapter helps fill the void I left after November of 2024.
aaaaaa
Kate stood in the main entrance to their parking lot and had Anton and Aleksei wiring her up and tucking panic buttons within reach. It was all a bit daunting, and she felt the gulp slide down her throat when they attached a gun into her holster. She immediately missed having Darko's gun on her.
"First code word?" Anton did up the buttons on her coat and placed his hands on her shoulders. His eyes spoke of attention and to be serious in this moment.
"Hot. Or should I say it Горячий (Goryachiy)?" Kate recited their danger word and knew she had butchered the Russian. But she was going to give it her best effort to learn key phrases.
"English or Russian that's the code word to knock down doors and find you." Anton searched her eyes to see if she got the true meaning or not. This was highly important today. Kate would be out with people they suspected as traitors. An idea he wasn't completely comfortable with. He had begged Georgi to let him stay with her, but was told there was a bigger plan in action.
"Where are your panic buttons that can be removed to have on hand when you get a massage?" Aleksei finished hooking up the earpiece to Mallorie and patted her button on her chest. He turned his eyes away from his boss' family to see if Kate remembered or not.
"The tab under the collar of my jacket is removeable and I will be able to keep it on me at all times. As well as my hair tie." Kate stroked over her braid and nodded when Sergei, Ivo, and Vasil walked up, "Now what does a girl have to do to get a day out with you two?!" She faked smiled the best she could but couldn't hide the tremor and fear from her voice. She was internally terrified. She had been told Ivo and Vasil would be her line of defense while at the salon.
Her eyes locked on to Vasil's and felt the warmth leave her body in a rush.
"I don't think we have properly met Высочество (Vysochestvo). My name is Vasil, and my partner today is Ivo. We will handle the inside and outside skies for threats while you and Mrs. Bellic enjoy yourselves for a well-deserved day of pampering." Vasil lifted his fist to his chest and fought the grimace from forming on his face. He was still extremely hurt and probably not up to the task of protecting their highest assets.
"Greetings! And my apologies for not visiting you sooner in the hospital wing." Kate swallowed thickly and extended her hand to him to see if he would shake it or not. What she wasn't prepared for was for him to gently grasp her hand and kiss her knuckles then bring them up to his forehead.
"I was well out of it."
"But you gave your all to protecting this Bratva. I would like to thank you for your hard-earned achievement." Kate pulled their connected hands toward her lips and kissed his knuckles silently, "You have saved us. Thank you."
"Oi! Enough with the dramatics. How about we head out and get you two ladies pampered and treated well for the dance tomorrow night." Ivo gruffly answered as he checked his long rifle. He was not happy about being outside in the freezing cold watching a building they technically owned. It felt like over kill to have such lengths taken while being in an already protected asset.
"A man after my heart! Yes, please I am over do for some pampering." Mallorie adjusted her coat and heard some chatter in Russian in her ear from her earpiece. There was a weird way the man who was holding Kate's hand looked. He looked to be biting the inside of his cheek or something.
"But not before I see my beautiful wife and growing child!" Roman rounded the corner and went straight to Mallorie to envelop her in a romantic display of affection, "Stay safe and enjoy yourself. Not every day you get a full expense paid trip to a Russian Bath house."
At Kate's revolution Aleksei went to cover, "It's not what you think. Yes, there are bath houses in Hove. But this place is for high end clients. Private rooms, specialized people to tend to you. You even get lunch about hallway through it all. There is nothing to worry over." Aleksei dropped a kiss to her knuckles and nodded at Anton to do final inspections.
"How are my two most important ladies doing this fine morning?!" Niko lowered down the steps and kissed Kate's cheek before repeating the process for Mallorie. He would ensure he saw them off safe and strike a spear of fear down Vasil and Ivo's back.
"Good morning Высочество (Vysochestvo)!" Georgi greeted happily and kissed her knuckles before lifting them to his forehead. He slipped a piece of paper into her pocket without her knowing it and moved on to Mallorie to greet her in the same fashion.
"It's such a shame you won't be getting your nails done with us." Mal pouted as she accepted his greeting. Her eyes silently pleaded with him to join them. She would feel slightly better if he was around them. She was picking up on the distress from Kate and the looks Niko was sending his men.
"You have nothing to fear. You and highness will be well protected." Georgi quickly spoke in Spanish to Mallorie and kissed her cheek before turning his attention to Kate and everyone else in the space. It wasn't well known that he knew some Spanish. He had been attached to the Spanish Lords for a short time when Kenny was interested in their operations.
Mallorie was shocked at how well he pronounced the words and with how confidently he spoke, she felt some of her fear dissipate.
"Ah my lovely ladies I have much to teach Niko before tomorrow night. People's names, faces, alliances, the works. You know boring office stuff." He smiled for Kate, trying to curb the fear he saw, and turned to face his boss, "If you wish I can get settled in your apartment. It is where your final fitting will be, and we can start building our network from there."
"Sounds good. I will meet you shortly." Niko acknowledged Georgi with a tilt of his head. He would get him going on setting up who all he needed to know and not know at this party. He watched as his second ascended the stairs and off toward his apartment, "Roman go with him. I want you and Bernie there when I have my final fitting."
Roman nodded excitedly and kissed his wife one more time before dashing up the stairs to go find the room Bernie had been asleep in. He'd grab his friend then head over to the upscale apartment Niko was currently using. He was in for a real treat. He'd have to sneak some photos to show Mallorie tonight.
"Kate, can I have a word in private?" Niko held his hand out to her and felt relief when she simply took his hand effortlessly. He guided her away from the waiting party and cupped her makeup covered cheeks, "If anything crosses the line or you feel in danger, scream out in Serbian what you call me. Моја љубав (Moja ljubav, my love). Do you understand?" He set her with a stern tone and hardened his eyes. This was important. He changed her dial to channel four and nodded his head. He and Darko would hear her distress and come running.
"I understand husband." Kate felt the mood darken and she sharpened her eyes. That would be her ultimate safe word and one to use sparingly.
"Now do have some fun. I want this day to be your day." Niko kissed her forehead and released her when Mallorie approached.
"Enough of this sappiness. Let's get going!" She looped her arm around Kate's and turned toward the waiting exit and where Anton, Aleksei, Ivo, and Vasil stood watching and waiting. She had given Niko her once over. Something was off between the two lovebirds, and she was bound to figure it out before they got to their first spa treatment.
Things just seemed… Off.
Niko watched as the two females entered into the cold with a team flanking them and felt his heart lurch. This was new to him. They would be about with his men without him. He knew he could protect Kate best. But he would trust Georgi's thought process and follow along with the plan. It did feel bittersweet knowing Darko would be out patrolling.
"They will be safe Pakhan." Sergei nodded his head and headed off toward breakfast to finish eating his meal. He had exchanged a quick glance with Ivo and sharply nodded once to let him know he would be ready to come charging as backup. They had discussed privately about watching the others backs. Their other captains had been acting suspicious and weird about this outing.
"I sure hope so." Niko grumbled and took off for the stairs to see what all he needed to learn before this massive party.
aaaaaa
Kate bounced on her feet as the excitement built. A whole day at the spa. Just what kind of luck did she stumble into? The limitations were boundless, and she grabbed Mallorie's hand in anticipation. They shared a happy giggle causing all the other men around them to smile.
"Is it truly whatever we wish?" Kate beamed at Vasil who had a slight limp to his steps.
"Высочество (Vysochestvo) this is your region to operate in. They are here to serve." Vasil gestured to the shop owners they passed, all of them opening their doors and putting out carts of their goods. Flower shops drew back their gates, fresh bakeries let out their heavenly scents, and used electronic storemen went to hawk their goods before noticing who was walking their way.
"Good morning highness! Beautiful day to be out and about!"
"Good day! Fragrant flowers?"
"Greetings! Fresh donuts?! My treat!"
"Yes, yes, yes, carry on. She has some place to be." Ivo ushered them back toward their store fronts to give Kate the most room to walk.
"So how does all this work?" Kate mused, eyes lingering on a giant arrangement of violets in a storefront. She came to a stop when the men around her slowed to a halt, noticing her attention was captured by something. A small girl ran out of the flower shop with a couple of white roses in her grasp. A middle-aged man urgently tried to grab the child and prevent her from rushing the head of the Bratva.
Vasil instantly stepped into the child's path and blocked her rapid approach to Kate.
"It is alright Vasil." Kate gingerly placed her hand to his shoulder and moved around him to lower to be eye level with the girl.
"I picked these for you from my garden when mum told me about you being sick." The high-pitched rushed Russian caused a smile to break out on Kate's face. It fit the brilliant, beaming look the girl had as she extended the roses out for her to take.
"She wants you to have the roses as a get-well gift." Anton walked forward and squatted down to be next to Kate and the child, "What is your name little one? Высочество (Vysochestvo) would like to thank you properly."
"M-my name i-is Katarina. Here Высочество (Vysochestvo)!" The girl's excitement never dimmed seeing the armed men and she waited for the beautiful woman before her to take the simple roses.
"Thank you, Katarina. Is that your father?" Kate accepted the flowers and looked up to the terrified looking man hovering in the doorway to the flower shop.
"I am ma'am. We heard the news… Marta is a friend of my wife's. My daughter wanted to send a basket to the compound. Forgive the improper approach. It will not happen again. I swear it." The man shook from head to toe and bowed his head removing the wool cap in respect.
"A child's caring nature should be encouraged. But I understand the need to not bum rush someone. Especially when surrounded by weapons." Kate laughed at her own joke and let Anton help her stand upright, "You have a beautiful shop sir. I thank you for your kindness. On my way home may I stop in to see what all you have?" Kate let her eyes roam over the intricate flower arrangement in the front windows and longed to simply run her fingers over the soft petals.
"Of course! You do not need to ask Высочество (Vysochestvo)." He lifted from his bowed position and urgently waved for his daughter to return to his side. He was literally using every ounce of strength to stay upright and from shaking in Kate's presence. They were never allowed to even breathe in Mrs. Petrovic's direction.
"Again, thank you. To you and your daughter. Have a nice day." Kate took one of the roses and handed it to Mallorie, loving the motherly glow her friend gave off. Mal was near tears and had the sappiest of gestures plastered to her face. Without missing a beat, they both took a whiff of the roses and sighed in pleasure at the freshness.
"To you as well. Happy early Valentine's Day. Gentlemen." The man pulled his daughter inside and went to watch them from the shop's windows, narrowly avoiding a heart attack.
"That was sweet. But I believe you asked a question before the cutest interruption ever." Mallorie tucked her arm back through Kate's and began walking when one of the men headed off toward a nice-looking building.
"Oh! Yes! So how does all this work?" Kate patted Anton's shoulder as he passed by her to take up the lead with Aleksei. She wanted to show her thanks for stepping in and allowing her the chance to interact with the child. Vasil resumed his position next to her and nodded in understanding when she lifted her eyebrow at him. She knew he was just doing his job and she appreciated him for it, but when it came to children, she didn't believe them to be a threat.
'But with how things have been lately… I wouldn't put it past people to use children as soldiers… Niko was basically a child soldier growing up…'
"What works?" Anton reached for the glamours ornate double doors to a white marble doorframe. The three-story palace gleamed against the morning light and looked to stand out against the grayish wash of the surrounding buildings. It looked like it had been pressure washed of all grime and screamed of high class and pride. Kate's smile bloomed at how well taken care of the place looked. Nothing like the bath houses she had been imagining.
"I'm just sure it is something I don't want to know… But I'm curious to know how all these businesses work for the Bratva. Or I guess why. A question for another time perhaps." Kate sighed and watched as Ivo and Vasil took off in different directions to secure the area. She was curious as to why the shop owners even answered to Kenny. Like what was the point to begin with? Did that flower shop suffer because they were being forced to work with Kenny's organization? Or was it protected? Received benefits? Her head spun with all the questions she had never bothered to think on before.
"Probably for the best. Channel seven go live. I'll be on comms should you need me." Aleksei grabbed her hand to kiss her knuckles then headed back toward the compound, checking alley ways and windows from higher up. He had other tasks to get done before he would feel safe going into tomorrow night. And he was dreading the morning meeting with Niko...
"I'll get you two settled, then I will be at the compound with Aleksei working on security for tomorrow night. I uh. Also need to stop and pick up the wife's Valentine's Day gift." Anton blushed some when Mal gave him an adorable aww.
"After you my dear ladies." He pulled the doors open and let them enter ahead of him only to instantly smile with the loud boisterous laughter coming from Igor, Kenny's cousin.
"You bring me the epitome of beauty and expect me to make them more beautiful? You flatter this old man! And challenge him with the impossible!" Igor rounded the marble counter and pulled Anton into a huge bear hug before turning his attention to Kate and Mallorie, "My word. You did say she would be injured. Igor shall do his best. The works, yes? Mineral episome salt soak bath, exfoliation, and or waxing, hair treatments and trims, mani pedis, gold flake treatments. Need that soft new skin to glow."
"And don't forget massages. My body has been put through the ringer with this growing one." Mal added nodding along to everything the excited man listed off. She was checking that list off as soon as the words left the jolly sounding man. She was going to ensure her, and Kate, got every single bit of over-the-top pampering one could get in an establishment like this. She had never had the funds to blow on a spa day, and she was going to make the most of it.
"Yes, of course. If you two will follow Jessica, she will get you to your private changing rooms to get into your robe so we can begin the transformation of a lifetime!" Igor ushered them down a side hall where a pretty young lady waited for them in an all-black uniform.
"Remember Kate." Anton called after them. She lifted her fingers to her collar of her jacket as she hurriedly followed Jessica to a locked door. Their sheer excitement was easy to read.
"What has happened to Высочество (Vysochestvo)?! Her neck and chest look bruised!" Igor exclaimed whirling around to stare with rounded eyes at one of Kenny's men. One of the few he actually got along with. There was a shared history here between blood and Bratva.
"I've assigned Vasil to be with them, but I need you to keep a special eye out for Kate. She may not be as comfortable as she seems with all the touching." Anton grew somber and watched as they dashed into the room down the hall. Animated yelps and screams piercing the air.
"Ah. Igor will start slow, and give them loads of privacy. Welcome Vasil! Should I put you down for some of their treatments?" Igor headed the warning and beamed at another one of Kenny's men who entered his salon. It wasn't everyday they had the Mrs. come by let alone the new head of the Petrovic household. He was thrilled as he was nervous. Kate's word and review would make or break his humble upscale salon. He was getting tired of the over entitled women who graced his salon.
"That's a no. I'm here to make sure nothing goes wrong. I'm her second for the day." Vasil adjusted his rifle and pointed down the hall where the locker rooms were located.
"Er. Yeah. They just went into our president's suite to get undressed for their bath." Igor answered his silent question and watched as he slowly moved down to stand outside the door at attention.
"He is not her second. He is to be watched as well. Catch my drift?" Anton crossed his arms and moved toward the front entrance. He spoke in hushed, clipped Russian hoping to get the point across. He couldn't risk saying more than that since the comms were wide open and he didn't want to tip off Vasil they were watching him.
"One in the sky, one inside, one on panic button, and another out back?" Igor walked behind his counter and made sure he selected the correct spa packages for them and in a good order. He would need to feed them at some point. He was also moving other patrons around to further rooms to ensure no one got the slip between rooms. Hall patrols would double as well.
"More than that. But yes. I am entrusting you with them Igor. Clock set?" Anton lifted his watch and waited for Igor to mirror his move.
"Check. See you before dinner."
aaaaaa
"A small hem here and I could conceal a knife into the arm of the jacket." A younger tailor stood at attention next to Niko's right shoulder, "With a swing of your arm down it could sever the threads and slip out to the waiting hand." To demonstrate he jerked his lower arm out to the side and had a knife slide out and get gripped swiftly and nimbly from the concealed pocket. "A one time go. So, remember the weight needed to send it free."
"Is something this necessary needed for the masquerade ball?" Niko was genuinely impressed with the action and kind of really wanted to have something like that built into his suit. He made eye contact with Florian and couldn't help his own matching smirk from firming. He had to look away before he laughed and gave a slight nod when the tailor asked silently.
Oh, this was more enjoyable than he thought.
"I have trainer sleeves you can use in the padded gym room to practice extending the blade like so. They are made of weighted plastic and not sharp." The tailor marked down the addition and went ahead and added the thicker padding for the vest chest and back. Nothing to make it look puffy, but could help pad a bullet proof vest if needed.
"I'd like to look at those." Niko chuckled at Roman's snort and a 'Of course I'd like to see the murder knives for a dance.' Remark under his cousin's breath. Bernie hid his smirk behind his hand and acted like he was stifling a yawn. Both of them were highly amused seeing Niko getting outfitted for this high-end event.
"Right. A standard finish in black silk matching the color swatch from Высочество (Vysochestvo) dress. But the refinement sir. I need to measure it on you." The gentleman bowed at the waist and looked to Georgi to help lead their new Pakhan on. It was not his place to mention the Petrovic coat of arms. Only someone of a higher-ranking status could remove the lock and show their colors.
"Niko this is important. Kenny wears the finest silk sash, gold leaf wrapped rope, and shoulder fringe. It sounds frilly. But trust me. This has been the sign of our strength and power for decades now. It is Pakhan's mark." Georgi lifted up from his spot on the couch, placed the pictures and documents down on the coffee table, and moved over to a locked box near where Niko stood. He unlocked a long metal case and lifted the lid to show off the vibrant red crossbody sash. Finer blue and white trim edged the royal red silk. Diamonds rested in the gold trim fringe that bordered the lower ledge. The right shoulder held a wide board where intricate thread formed the coat of arms. It rested on top of his shoulder and down his arm for all to see.
Georgi slowly slipped it around Niko's form and began to place it where it would rest all night tomorrow night. He went slow. Careful to not snag his fingernails in the silk. He had the honor of adorning this to Kenny before the yearly party last year and desperately tried to remember the correct placements and resting spots.
Silence the likes never felt before sucked the room dry.
Niko watched as high-class, high-ranking, titled trim, and gold rope was being added to the most tailored suit he had ever had in his life. He doubted his wedding suit would be able to outdo who stood before him in the mirror. He looked like a royal prince from some far-off country. He blinked several times.
The door opened to the apartment and in stumbled Aleksei and Anton, but at the sight before them, they dropped to a knee. Both struggling to do so without reinjuring themselves. If they had doubts about Niko taking over, they no longer did now. The red sash had only ever graced Kenny, and Lenny once. But that had been a dare to get a rise out of Kenny.
Now it graced the powerful man before them.
"My dear boy it suits you!" Bernie whispered in an awe filled tone. The Niko before him was not the Niko he had greeted some twenty minutes ago. This was the top tier of their military unit. It looked nothing of their dress uniforms, but something more refined and sophisticated. It was smart, sharp, and downright sexy in the most lethal of ways.
"I look…"
"… Like our leader."
Georgi smoothed over Niko's shoulders and let the tailor redo the sash to fit snugly around his torso, but would allow for dance movement and fighting, heaven forbid. Anton used the nearby counter to stand up and helped Aleksei get up off the ground. They couldn't stop the open stares that were glued to how well it all looked on Niko.
"My God cousin. You look like a king set for his own ball." Roman's curiosity got the best of him, and he started to prod through the open tissue paper on the coffee table. Something dark and thin caught his attention and he pulled free a simple black eye covering mask, "NB?!"
"Masks are not required to be on at all times, but it is responsible to bring one and have it at the ready should he be asked to adorn it." The tailor redid the button on the sash and stood back to see his handiwork. Impressed and ready to add the final stiches, he moved to the side to make his notes and await instruction.
"You sure you don't want to trade places? I do love a party." Bernie sang slightly causing Roman to chuckle. There was a twinge of envy getting to see his comrade all done up. And while he had long since recovered from his crush on Niko, he couldn't help but feel a small form of attraction show back up.
"You definitely don't look like your normal self. But it looks good on you." Roman wanted to crack a few jokes but could see the hesitation in his cousin's eyes, "How about I take a photo to show Mal? If it passes her inspection, then you know Kate will swoon." He had been trying to sneak a photo here and there, but his cousin was too aware of his surroundings to get a good one.
"You worry Kate won't like it? Trust me. You have nothing to worry about." Georgi huffed as he went back to the locked boxes, "You don't even have all of it on yet."
"There is more?!" Bernie basically lit the entire room up with his mischievous smile, "Pray tell. I am a fan of the fringe."
"Ha, ha. No. He wears the ring currently. But there is a pocket watch gifted to Kenny from Kate's late father, a gold rope bracelet gifted to Kenny by Jon Gravelli, and a lapel pin purchased by Kenny when he was still considered small time. It was his first major purchase and a show of how far he has come. All of this is symbolic of a time and place where agreements, arrangements, and power came to be. It is your decision to wear it all or not." Georgi pulled on some white gloves and produced the items from their foam slots. He didn't think Niko would turn it all down, but there was a small chance he could do that very thing.
"I am not here to make major changes. The only people I will be going after are Bulgarin's replacement, the Albanian's, and Mary Valvona. Unless there is an agreement that needs my attention further?" Niko let Georgi place the objects on him and took a long look at the pocket watch. 'McReary' was etched into the back face of the watch and had Niko pausing. Would Kate be okay seeing him wear it?
"Are we sure Bulgarin's replacement will be in attendance?" Anton lowered down onto the couch and picked up his stack of papers laying on the coffee table. He would glance over the current arrangements and see if things needed to be shaken up. They all had some info from Kenny to work off of. They had started planning this party out before Antonia needed to make her hasty leave.
Aleksei joined the living room and sat down on the armchair, his eyes never leaving Niko's form. It was just so surreal to see him dressed up and in their finery. It made his head spin for a second and he had to snap to it to keep the spiral from forming. He collected his papers from the coffee table and did his best to quit staring. They had a job to do, and he would not fail in keeping his boss safe. He double tapped his earpiece to alert Ivo and Vasil and to have them repeat it back. It instantly greeted him and settled some of his nerves.
Leaving Kate in their protection was one of the hardest things he's had to do under Niko's rule. It left him feeling cagey. On edge. He wanted to shake Georgi into reason. Someone trustworthy should be watching over them.
"If they are wanting to establish power and reconfirm their territory, they would show tomorrow night. And after the attack on them, I have a feeling they will be demanding to talk to the one responsible." Georgi backed away and gave Niko some space to check himself out in the mirror the tailor had set up. His eyes shot to the door when the handle jiggled before turning to open.
"Forgive the tardiness." Anatoly walked in with Sergei. They both had taken an extended breakfast to try and wake up properly. He was especially dragging this morning not knowing how Georgi was doing after last night's events. All thoughts ceased when his eyes landed on Niko and the bright red sash, "Pakhan! My word."
"The colors suit you!" Sergei exclaimed as he walked past a stunned Anatoly to occupy a chair at his boss' feet. If he was in uniform, wearing the crest vividly, they were to not be at his height. He checked his fellow captains and could pick up some strain in their features. 'Maybe the meeting isn't going so well…'
"Thank you. And please join us. I fear there is much to discuss." Niko jerked his head to the side to indicate Anatoly to shut the open door and join them in the living room, which was filling up quickly. He counted off his captains and sighed knowing the only people missing now were Ivo and Vasil. It would also give him a chance to feel them out about loyalty and their feelings about him taking over.
"I may not be as in the loop as the others, but I will do my best to keep up." Anatoly moved into the kitchen, "But first, I think we all should have a drink. It is noon somewhere." It didn't take much to feel the tension in the room and he figured a little liquid courage might smooth over some of the edges forming.
"Cheers to that!" Roman exclaimed excitedly. He had snapped a clear photo of Niko as he was studying the pocket watch. He hastily sent it in a message to his wife to see what her thoughts were. He highly doubted there was going to be negative feedback, but he wanted to ensure Kate had everything of her dreams tomorrow night. And after the hell she had been put through, she deserved it all and then some.
'Kate… I can't wait to see the way you look at my cousin!'
aaaaaa
"God I will never tire of a steaming hot bath!" Mallorie sighed loudly and sunk down to her chin in the salt infused water. It instantly zapped the tension and aches away that had formed along her spine. Her center of balance kept shifting as the baby grew and it was causing all sorts of pain to show up randomly.
"You can say that again…" Kate fought the roll of her stomach. The panic from last night wanted to surface in her again and she took another deep breath. Just what was she going to have to do to keep the panic at bay? Vasil stood outside the door. Ivo was somewhere keeping watch. Her panic button was resting on the lip of the tub. Her earpiece was within reach. Everything was done to ensure her safety. So why did she feel like bolting from the building and hiding away inside the apartment back at the compound?
"God I will-"
"Rhetorical."
"I know. Everything okay?" Mal knew there was something up with her friend. There was a stress to her body that refused to leave. Sure, the guns, panic buttons, earpieces- all that was intense, but surely that wasn't what had her friend in a near physical knot. Even the roses the small girl had given them should have helped work some of that rigidness out of Kate. Right?
"Niko killed Derrick. Shot him like it was nothing…" Kate felt her throat constrict. It was still new to say aloud, and it was like hearing it all over again. Panic wanted to consume her. It was near the tipping point. The room darkened more than it already was. The water felt cold suddenly.
She was back to the breaking point. The nonexistent level of security had started the slide into her madness. And then to have Niko's words slap her across the face again broke her. He had said it so vividly. Boldly. The disbelief was waging war inside her. How could he have done something so vile to her and then fall so far in love with her? Tears burned her eyesight and obscured the Russian folk-art painted on the ceiling.
"Holy shit! That mother fucker! How?!" Mallorie nearly screamed she was so mad! How could he have done such a thing?! And then to dote all over her friend like he did?! Oh, this was not happening. She sat bolt upright and slapped a hand to her mouth to stop the sudden urge to throw up and the other went to her baby bump to soothe the hard kick she felt.
"I don't know the full story. Guess I should probably ask if I want to truly know what went down, but he told me last night. To my face. He's really torn up about it too. I've never seen him so sad before." Kate tilted her head back to lay it on the edge of the tub. The light yoga styled music filled her ears and tried to work on the lump in her chest. But the downward drag had already started.
"Everything alright in there?" Vasil knocked once and spoke loudly through the door. He had heard someone yell and he grew alarmed.
"We are okay Vasil. Thank you." Kate called, wishing she didn't sound like she was seconds away from crying.
"He better be torn up over it! Katie! Are you okay? Honestly?" Mal was getting worried the longer it took for her friend to answer her. She could see the struggle her friend was going through. The tough act that was crumbling before her eyes. Her heart broke for her and for Niko. There had to be a reasonable explanation as to why he had killed the love of his life's brother. Even if they weren't as close as they are now, there had to have been something there to keep Niko coming back to Kate.
She knew most of their love story. Kate had been like an open book with her, and it painted Niko in a new light for her. But now? This built-up romantic man she had imagined was a cold-blooded killer and had used his skills against the one person he swore to love and protect.
"I'm not really sure. I just know that I love him so much and it's hard to accept that Niko killed Derrick. Actually pulled the trigger. And what's even more mind numbing is the fact that Francis was his other target. Or could have been. My brothers were sitting next to one another when it happened. I feel so stupid…" Kate felt the tears come of their own fruition to coat her cheeks in the familiar sensation.
"Don't feel that way. We will figure this out. Are you wanting to stay with Niko?" That was the burning question of the hour now. Would her friend want to stay with the one responsible for killing her brother? Was that even a possibility now? She had seen them interact just moments ago like nothing had happened. So clearly something had changed or not changed between her friends.
"Yes. That's what's tearing me apart. I just love the idiot so much, but what he did? How do I simply forgive him and move on?" Kate sniffled loudly and wiped the tears away, "My heart is broken right in two."
"I'm so sorry Kate. Is there anything I can do?" Mal wanted to give her friend a large hug but would wait till they were out of the bath and in their robes before initiating touch. She could see the mild clench of her friend's muscles and knew she was winding herself up.
"Just being here with me today is helping. I'm not sure how well I'm going to handle today. I've been looking forward to this moment- to be able to just relax and get pampered, but with this looming over me it's hard to just let go, you know?" Kate shifted in the tub to be able to look across to her friend. Hoping she would understand her feelings and be able to help her decipher it all.
"Well, if there is one thing we can do, is talk. Walk through your feelings. We have the day to think things through and determine if his sin outweighs your love or not. I just see the way you two look at each other and know your love is deep and real. So not all hope is lost." Mallorie adjusted some on the tiled seat to start the long conversation ahead of them.
Vasil slumped down to the floor absolutely shocked. He had kept his ear glued to the door after the shout and felt the floor come out from under him. He knew of Niko's sin but had zero idea he had been so bold as to tell Kate. That would be a secret he would never let slip if he could help it. So to hear how broken Kate sounded through the door had him questioning just about everything he knew about them.
His phone vibrated in his pocket, and he pulled it out to see a new message blinking. As he clicked it open and saw the sender, he felt himself want to throw up.
aaaaaa
"So, will this person just show up and reveal himself? Or will we have to search the crowd and play match game till we see someone not on our usual list." Aleksei poured everyone another shot and got ready to take his own. Pictures of their enemies and alliances were spread over the surface of the coffee table. It was unnerving to see Niko still dressed up in all their refinement, but it was just another major reminder that their boss was no longer Kenny…
"If they are wanting to establish routes and trade, then yes." Anton reached for the tall shot glass and paused in taking it, "But knowing Niko is alive and at the top may pose a problem."
"They do kind of hate your guts." Sergei offered before downing the burning liquid, "And if they know you are our leader, that puts Kate in even more danger." His fingers gently lowered the glass down to the coffee table and picked up their threat assessment papers. It was starting to dawn on everyone that the new leadership of the Bulgarin Mafia would hold a huge mistrust and hatred of Niko. Especially once it became known that they were behind the attack on the mansion.
"Kate has her own level of danger since the Angels of Death have approached her and the Mrs. has also shown her dislike. We also have no way of knowing how our current allies will act around her at the party. Will they show indifference or favoritism?" Georgi took his shot quickly and glanced around at his fellow captains. Most people within Kenny's organization merely tolerated Mrs. Petrovic. Kenny made it a hilarious point to force them all to dance with her at least once at this party every year. Anyone who refused appeared to be lacking in respect.
Which was not tolerated by Kenny.
"I have a feeling Roy or Gordon will approach her first to ask for a dance. Strong ties and display of unity." Aleksei leaned back in his chair and looked over to Niko to gage his reaction. He had the sinking feeling that Gordon would cross the line if given the chance to. And get away with it for the most part since Gerry was no longer a threat and he held the title of Mob Boss.
"I think there is also a strong possibility of Bulgarin leadership seeking Kate out first before going to Niko. He could put her into a false sense of security and companionship. Tug on her heartstrings without revealing himself to her. Possibly get her to see him as a nonthreat and to get Niko to think along the same lines." Anton threaded his fingers together to keep them from balling into fists. It would be a gutsy and ballsy move on their part to target and single out Kate first.
"We've seen our enemies single her out before…" Niko sighed heavily. She had been removed from his side effortlessly in the hospital and nearly taken out. He was hoping this party would be something enjoyable for her. Instead, it was starting to appear the opposite. People were bound to flock to her to get on her good side and hold sway over his own decisions. To use her against him.
"Georgi help me get out of this. I don't want to damage it before having to wear it tomorrow night." Niko stood and motioned for Georgi to help him. He placed his glass down and stood to unhook the sash and get it all back into the lock box.
"We are also forgetting that the entire LCPD and IAA higher ups will be in attendance. I can't imagine Francis letting her out of his sight. We also have four of the five families on our side watching over her. The Irish Mob. The Yardies. The North Holland Hustlers. We may have a ton of unknowns and enemies in attendance, but we also have a strong level of backing." Georgi saw the anguish come and go briefly on Niko's face with his words. While he had his own reservations about people swarming Kate, he also believed that people would know better than to just approach a powerful man's woman. 'But…'
"How do we know we still have their full weight behind us? We've been attacked numerous times. Had Kenny kidnapped and nearly tortured to death. Had the finger pointed at us for a time for Natalya's assault on the city… We haven't exactly shown to be the unstoppable force we once were." Sergei picked up the vodka bottle and poured a large shot. He was out of line and knew it. But with the front on assault on the compound and the ambush out west- They weren't looking so hot.
"I make them. I've done work for just about every mafia in this city. Law enforcement. Everyone. I had Kenny, the most powerful of the underground network, trying to sway me to his cause. People will recognize my resume. I tore the city apart looking for Roman and Kate. If they even think they can get out of agreements with me being in Kenny's place, they will have another thing coming." Niko locked eyes with Bernie trying to see if his words held weight or not. He had done a lot in his time in Liberty City. Rose the ranks. Took down entire affiliations. He had a trail of respect and fear in his wake.
Georgi removed the sash and tenderly laid it back down into the lockbox with the lapel pin, pocket watch, and bracelet. He watched as Niko removed the suit coat and started to change clothes into more comfortable and a battle-ready outfit. It was more in tune with what they normally saw Niko wearing. He sat back down in the spot he had been previously sitting in and downed his shot glass. It was going to be one long evening seeing Niko and Kate all dressed up.
"Let's not forget your run-in with the Pavano's under Jimmy P's leadership. You did some serious damage to them while under the umbrella of that loser. No offense. You stopped their hit against Jimmy. And then wiped out a crew at another meeting." Anatoly lifted his eyes from the information on the paper he was reading and studied Niko. It had been interesting to learn of this new information long after the fact.
"Also some of those thugs killed during the mission after the failed hit against Jimmy were Irish Mobsters…" Sergei sighed as he read the limited information they had obtained from stolen police reports and insider information.
"I did not know that…" Niko felt the strain double down on him instantly. Had he accidentally killed more men that knew Kate and Packie? Damaged their ranks even more? How far had he gotten involved that he quit identifying people before opening fire?
"I've had few interactions with the second most powerful family in the Commission. Roy's is the highest ranked one of course. But the Pavano's rank second. Mary is in her sixties. I think. Wasn't her sixtieth birthday just last year?" Aleksei paused in thumbing through their paperwork to look to Anton and Georgi. They would know more than him.
"Yes. It was a grand ordeal down in Little Italy. Kenny was there for about an hour. Avia called and we left shortly after." Georgi raked his hands through his curled hair and scrubbed over his face furiously. He was having to dig deep to remember everything, "I want to say her birthday was right after the failed attempt to kill Jimmy…"
"So Arthur Zapulla is who exactly to her?" Niko hummed at this new insight and shifted his focus to Anton. He had seemed to know more during the ambush and confrontation than anyone else.
"He is a forty-year-old lover and considered the consigliere of the Pavano family. It is assumed he helped Mary kill her husband to assume power. Nothing has been confirmed, but it is highly suspected." Anton rubbed at his chest with fantom pain of being stomped on by the man. He would be beyond elated to put a round through Arthur's skull.
"I think it is safe to say he is on my hit list. He is to be terminated no matter what for the attempt on Kenny's life, my own, and my captain's life. I will handle any fallout from that act." Niko lifted his shot glass and took it down swiftly. He held no love for the vile man who had tortured Kenny and attempted to kill Anton. Hell he would be hunting the man down himself right now if it wasn't for other pressing matters.
"Understood. But the Pavano's aren't the main focus of tomorrow night I'm afraid." Georgi huffed and studied the image of Alexi before him.
"It's not just about you cousin. These people are looking at Kenny's organization now and wondering if they are as strong and powerful as they were before all this happened." Roman was beyond fascinated with the conversation and was humbled to be included in on it. He had made to leave once they all started discussing the inner workings of the criminal world, but Niko had waved him back down into his seat.
"Roman has a point. Sort of. But you also make a very valid point. You are in charge now. Not Kenny. You have to establish yourself as Pakhan. Our alliances are not looking to me or the captains. They are looking to you." Georgi tilted his head some and took a deep breath, "Tomorrow night starts your timeline as being head of the Petrovic Bratva. It is extremely important we get you to interact and been seen with key members of friendlies. To shun those we deem under us. How you act, talk, and present yourself is a direct reflection of us and our organization."
"We can guide you as best we can. But ultimately it is up to you… and Kate… to represent what it means to be aligned with the Petrovic name." Anton brought his clasped hands up to his chin and rested it on them. He really hated the idea of Kate being thrusted into this role. She was too innocent and hurting to be forced to make impactful decisions. Ones she may not even be aware she is making.
"I… Do I even have full support from everyone to even lead us?" Niko plopped back down in his chair and unsurely trailed his fingers over the gold fringe of the Petrovic sash in the open lockbox. In the back of his mind, he always worried that Kenny's men would remain just that- Kenny's. That they weren't truly loyal to him. Yes, they had backed him when under attack. Yes, they doted on Kate as if she was one of their own. But there was a possible mutiny. One that could unravel at any moment. And the party would be the perfect place to have it blow up in their faces. It would destroy the Petrovic Bratva completely. Leave them without alliances or insurance.
All movement stopped in the room. Georgi's mouth dropped open in disbelief. Anton looked horrified. Aleksei grew pale.
"Wh-what?!" Georgi managed to squeak out. Was he really questioning their loyalty? After everything?!
"I know Boris and Ziad were defectors and clearly against you… But we are all not like that. We've stood by your side. Protected you with our lives… To even- to even ask that? I… I can't even form the words right now." Anton shakily stood up and started to pace the room. He had nearly died for the man who had been fitted for all of Kenny's refinement. Went into full blown panic mode to revive Kate and get her safe during the ambush.
"Look I'm sorry but I have to ask! Boris is still out there. Could be planning to overthrow me and out our secrets to our enemies. He knows everything about the inner workings-"
"Oh my God." Georgi stood abruptly and the color drained from his face.
"The salon!"
aaaaaa
"Boris? Shouldn't you be on patrol?" Igor looked up from the book he was reading when the front door opened and one of Kenny's captains walked in, armed, and looked extremely serious.
"Small problem. Where is Vasil? He has not checked in with the team." Boris darted his eyes around the small intimate lobby and adjusted his hold on the rifle. He felt his face muscles twitch with the lie and tried to see down the hall to spot anyone he knew who could blow his cover.
"Anton warned me about him! Shit! I have him stationed outside the manicure and pedicure suite. I can-"
"Don't bother." Boris jerked his silenced pistol from the back of his pants and shot Igor twice- once in the chest and once in the stomach. He rushed forward to catch the slumping over form and lowered him to the ground as quietly as he could. Silently he tucked the pistol away and pulled the keyboard down to him below the line of the desk, typing out the code for the security camera access. He was working against the clock and knew it. He would only get a few moments before someone came to check the front for perimeter check.
aaaaaa
Darko spotted Ivo on the rooftop across from the salon. He could tell from the distance that Ivo was getting agitated and upset about something. The rifle kept drifting back and forth at unknown targets. But from his viewpoint there was nothing amiss with the front of the building. He frowned at the odd behavior, lifting his own binoculars to study the front of the salon from the building he had decided to use for his own observation point.
The front door opened a hair and a face looked out as if checking for enemies. It was as if they were scouting out for people rather than trying to hide. A hand emerged and signaled four, two, and four. This only grew Darko's apprehension. He did not know the Petrovic warning codes. But he did know Bulgarin's.
"Four… Two… Four…" He hummed as his mind searched through the things he had picked up and learned. He lowered the binoculars and lifted his sniper to see if he could see the face better. As he went to line up the scope, movement on the rooftop Ivo rested on caught his attention. Ivo lifted up a spare two-way radio and removed his earpiece.
"Just what are you up to?" Darko whispered to no one in particular. He watched as Ivo dropped the radio, shoved his earpiece back in and rapidly stood up. He flung the sniper to his back and jerked his shorter rifle into ready position and took off for the rooftop door.
"Something's not right!" Darko snapped his sights back to the front door and watched as the person pulled up a face covering and disappeared into the building. His stomach dropped immediately. "Damnit Kate! Always in trouble it seems!"
aaaaaa
Vasil spotted a figure stalking toward him, gun in a relaxed position, but face covered with a black bandana. He immediately snapped his rifle to attention and got ready to fire. He was unaware of any added security in Igor's establishment and knew none of his fellow men would enter without giving the safe warning.
"That's far enough! Don't come any closer!" Vasil called out, turning to be in the perfect firing position. He did a quick look to the locked door behind him, and prayed Kate hadn't heard him. He snapped his eyes back to the approaching figure and targeted his gun to a kill shot, "I said stop moving!"
"Brother! I haven't much time!" Boris jerked the face covering down enough to identify himself before once more masking his face.
"You had best get the fuck away from here before I shoot! You traitorous bastard!" Vasil lowered his weapon and looked to the closed door Kate and Mallorie were getting treated in. They had moved from one side of the building to the other and it had given him a chance to collect himself. He tapped the side of his head above his earpiece silently asking Boris if he had cut communication.
"Still sore about the beating?!" Boris smirked under his facemask and tilted his head to the side to study the man before him.
"You have exactly five seconds to get the fuck down before I blow your brains out- you- you!"
"Aw. Is someone still a little butt hurt over their role?!" Boris went to laugh but thought better of it. There was a slight darkness to Vasil's face, and it gave him pause… Maybe things weren't how they needed to be- "I am glad to see you are not dead… Have they any idea?" Boris dropped his voice as to not have it carry and reached his hand out to clasp Vasil's, slashing his other hand over his throat to show he had not cut all communication.
"Not a damn clue as far as I know. He cheated on the bitch. That's what I've gathered from Alek. He might be swayed in the end. Would be a good chess piece." Vasil rested his ear to the door and listened to Kate and Mallorie laugh at something that was said. He didn't think they would be paying attention to the hallway, too engrossed in their conversations and nail color to care about much else.
"The money and IAA chick offering would be a good start. She did her part well. Played the dumbass like a fiddle. So are we going forward with the plan? We could kill the pregnant one and have a decent go with the redhead before having to leave. I hear she begs and screams real nice. I sent Ivo the distress signal to a made-up enemy four blocks away." Boris let his rifle dangle in front of him and crossed his arms, watching as his friend studied the room for noises.
"I'm not videotaping that shit. You and the boss can do that all you want when I'm not around." Vasil looked disgusted and glared at Boris. He didn't like Niko any more than the rest of them, but he drew the line at going after his family like that.
"Do I need to remind you which side you're on?!" Boris' voice rose with his anger and snapped his mouth shut when Vasil jerked from the door in surprise.
"Vasil you okay out there?" Kate called through the door.
'You stupid mother fucker!' Vasil mouthed at Boris, "Yes. All clear. Just checking in with Ivo."
"Alright. You don't have to stand out there the entire time you know. You can come in and sit down. I know you've got to be hurting." Kate sounded legitimately worried about his health, and it twisted his gut. He closed his eyes harshly and dropped his forehead to the solid oak door.
"I am fine. Thank you for the offer." Vasil's soul lashed out at him, and he sent a death stare at Boris. Why was her fate to be tortured so horrifically? She hadn't really done anything to anyone. Had shown him loyalty, kindness, and care. How Boris hated her so much was beyond him. But plans were in motion.
"Pakhan is alerted to your presence! You have five seconds to show yourself before the entire Bratva comes crashing down on you!" A deep voice in Russian yelled out from the front of the spa.
Vasil and Boris exchanged worried glances. They did not recognize the voice that called out to them, "Get out of here now. I'll have the plan in motion for you. Go!" Vasil hissed at Boris and lifted his rifle and took off toward the front of the spa, "State the code word or I fire!"
Boris placed his hand to the door handle to the room his target was in and swore in his mind.
"Don't you fucking dare open that door. I will be forced to kill you now!" Vasil skidded to a stop to spin around and aim at Boris. He was at a huge crossroads. While he knew what was expected of him, part of his soul screamed at him to protect Kate and his boss' family. He wasn't comfortable with the plan anymore. He was so conflicted and torn that he felt like screaming!
"Fuck off! You know the rules and plan. What's it to you if I kill a chick and fuck another?!" Boris sneered down the hall and went to lift his weapon.
"Because if you do this now then we won't win, and you know it!" Vasil took a few steps in Boris' direction, "Get going, or so help me God, I will let whoever is in the lobby catch you and play opossum!"
"I'm off safety and entering the hall!" The rough voice screamed out down the narrow hall.
"Fine. Brother. Another time. Be ready. Or I will kill you the next chance I get…" Boris wouldn't be able to kill them all and get out with his life. Their plans would just have to be postponed for the time being. Silently he took off for the back exit and disabled the alarm to make a quiet exit.
aaaaaa
OMG I was not expecting this chapter to take the role it did, but I was in-between insomnia and sickness and it showed up within a 4-hour period. Now I gotta plan out the rest accordingly.
Anyway! Hope y'all enjoyed this and I plan on getting the next installment out as soon as I can. Dealing with stomach flu, and reemergence of Covid symptoms again. But my down time with the kids and me helps me get into the story mode again. My son is absolutely in love with Niko. He thinks he was treated wrong. He's five. And has sympathy for our loveable loaf. So if a kid can see redemption, then there is some to be had.
Again, the world is in turmoil, but hopefully there is some relief in my work… One Love Y'all. This lonely Texan loves y'all and prays for everyone to have a happy and safe life.