Secret Remorse Sneak Peak
Chapter One
I rush through the door of The Capital Grille, “Can I help you?” The perky hostess asks.
“Yes, I’m meeting my friend, Lena Love,” I answer hoping she’s not here yet.
The hostess smiles sweetly and says, “This way, please.”
Following the hostess into a private room, I see the raven-haired, porcelain skin Lena studying the menu. Her bodyguard, Billy is sitting one table back and to the left watching her. Plopping into the seat across from Lena I say, “I’m sorry I’m late. Traffic was a bitch.”
“Don’t worry,” she says rubbing her ever-growing baby bump. “Billy and I arrived a couple of minutes ago.”
“Good. How are you feeling? You look amazing,” I ramble. Lena’s husband, Patrick, my cousin is the leader of the most powerful mafia family, and her father is the President of the United States. Surrounded by so much power, Lena is the kindest person you will ever meet.
“I think the morning sickness is finally gone. Thank you for saying so, I’m feeling like poo.”
“Nonsense you have the cutest baby bump.”
“Thank you. How are you? How is work?” Lena asked taking a sip of her water.
“Things are good. Manus is starting on Sunday’s game; the whole family is flying to Florida to watch him play.”
“Wow that is awesome, what position does he play again?”
“Tight end.”
“I’ll tell Patrick, and we’ll watch the game.”
“Manus will be thrilled.”
The server appers at our table introducing herself as Tiffany. I order a salad and water, Lena a cheeseburger with everything including the kitchen sink. Pointing to Billy, Tiffany asks, “Would your other guest like anything?”
Tuning to Billy Lena asks, “Billy what would you like to eat?”
“Nothing, thank you,” he answers in a deep voice.
“Billy, what do you want to eat?” Lena asks again in a stern mom voice.
“Club sandwich please,” Billy says in a defeated voice.
I bit my lip trying to stifle a giggle. Every time we go to lunch Billy tries to maintain distance and be professional, but Lena won’t have it. If he hasn’t eaten, she makes him order something. Turning back to Tiffany Lena answers, “He’ll have the club sandwich with fries and a coke. Thank you.”
Tiffany leaves to input our order returning quickly with my water and Billy’s coke. As she leaves us again, Lena says, “I have to be honest. I asked you here for something more than lunch with a friend.”
“Oh?”
“Um, I’m not sure how to say this and I kind of feel weird doing this, but Patrick asked me too. He can be very persuasive when he wants something,” Lena says biting her bottom lip and blushes.
“Ookay, what is it?” I ask leery of what she will say.
“Patrick has someone he would like you to meet. He seems to think you two would make a good couple.”
“Who?” I ask swallowing hard. I knew The Family set up couples and marriages; my parents resulted from one of their matches. I never thought they would come to me.
“His name is Maks Volkov. I haven’t met him yet, but Patrick and Dad told me he is a nice guy. He works in a museum in Philadelphia as a curator. His father is Gennadi Volkov, Vory Pakhan.”
Russian. “Okay, does my dad know?”
“Yes, Patrick talked to him a couple of days ago. Your father has not met him officially, but he knows, and he’s okay with you meeting Maks,” Lena explains.
Dad would know Lena wouldn’t be here if he didn’t. While we may not be a traditional mafia family, we follow tradition, and they need a father’s permission before requesting an arranged marriage. “I guess I can meet him. It’s not like I have to marry the guy,” I joke.
“Nope, if he’s a dud you can kick him to the curb,” Lena says laughing.
“Good, because if it goes badly, I’m blaming you and Patrick,” I joke.
“Blame Patrick, I’m just the messenger,” Lena laughs.
“Deal.”
Tiffany returns with our meals as Lena’s phone beeps with an incoming text. Looking down at the screen she shakes her head and smiles. “Patrick?” I ask.
“Yes,” Lena drawls. “He’s texting to check up on me. I swear he has gotten more overprotective since we found out I’m pregnant. He and Dad want to add a second bodyguard to my detail; I know they have more guards following me than Billy.”
“They both have powerful enemies and want to keep you and the little bean safe.”
“I know, but it is driving me crazy. And it’s kind of creepy having someone watching every move I make. No offense Billy.”
“None taken,” Billy answers with his mouth full of the club sandwich.
“I can’t imagine. You went from the front desk manager with no family to the daughter of the President of the United States and the wife of the most powerful man in the world.”
Lena laughs, “Yeah it’s been a crazy year and a half.”
“And in three months things will get crazier,” I point out.
“Speaking of three more months are you having a boy or a girl?” I’ve been dying to know if I should buy dolls or cars.
Lena smiles a huge vibrate smile and rubs her belly, “We are having a little boy.”
“Oh my god, that is amazing. I bet Patrick is over the moon.”
“He and Dad are already planning for little league, football, and soccer when he gets older.”
“Are you happy?” I ask.
“I’m scared. What if I’m not a good mother? My mom was great, but she kept a lot of secrets. I don’t want to be like that with my children,” Lena says brushing tears away.
Taking her hands in mine, “Lena you will be a great mom. You are one of the most loving and caring people I’ve ever met. If you have questions ask Brianna or my mom; between the two of them they’ve raised ten kids.”
“Thank you, Shauna. You are a great friend and one of the few I have in the city. I scare everyone else.”
I giggle nervously, “I won’t lie when we first met I was a little scared. When I think of how much power your husband and father have, I’m still a little intimated by you.”
“Don’t worry I only use my powers for good,” Lena giggles.
“Tell me more about Maks.”
***
After Lena and I say our goodbyes I fight D.C. traffic to work, Kinsmen communication, the world’s leading Communication Company. We are involved in everything from cell phones to news outlets and T.V. shows. Our CEO Kagen Scott, my uncle; hired me after I graduated college as an app developer. Four years later I’m the lead app developer for the cellphone and Kins T.V. (similar to Amazon’s Fire T.V.) department. On the surface, our apps are above board, but if you know where to look you find their true purpose. They are used for data dredging and other underground activities for The Family.
I’m working on our newest game when Kagen knocks on my open, “How was lunch?” Kagen asks sitting in the chair across from my desk.
“It was interesting,” I reply looking up from my laptop.
“She told you about the setup?” Kegan asks.
“You knew too?”
“Your father told me and asked me to check on you.”
“Then why didn’t he tell me himself if he was worried about my reaction,” I retort. Did everyone, but me knew about my meeting?
“Patrick thought it would go better if Lena asked you. I guess it didn’t go as he had hoped.”
“Kegan, we are not in the eighteen hundreds anymore. It is my life. Why wasn’t I invited to this meeting to discuss meeting a potential husband?”
“This is the way it has always been. The leader approaches the father or head of the women’s family about marriage.”
“Whatever, I’m meeting him Friday night at Lena and Patrick’s.”
“Good. Now, how’s the new game coming?”
Gnome Treasure is our new game. On the outside, it is another waste of time while your oil gets changed phone gaming app. But in reality, it allows The Families illegal counterparts to communicate with each other or send messages to The Family’s legal business. “I’m working on the internal communication feature now.”
“I’ll let you get back to it. Don’t work too late tonight,” Kegan asks from the doorway.
“I’ll try, but Patrick wants this app up and running as soon as possible.”
“Okay, but there is more to life than work.”
Looking up from my screen I smile at my uncle, “Thanks Kegan.”
“No problem sweetheart,” he says before leaving me to my work.
Chapter Two
Before leaving work on Friday, I step into the ladies’ room to touch up my makeup. “Big date?” my assistant, Sarah asks.
“Blind date,” I reply applying lipstick.
Sarah wrinkles her nose, “Good luck.”
“Thanks,” I deadpan running my hands down the front of my black cocktail dress and leaving the Kinsman building.
***
The massive Iron Gate of the Love Estes push open, and I remind myself this is a meeting, nothing is set in stone. Parking my Mazda in front of Patrick and Lena’s real-life fairy tale mansion equipped with a river rocks exterior and climbing vines. I take a deep breath before exiting the car.
Lena greets me before I reach the door, “I’m happy you’re here. Your date is running a couple of minutes late but should be here soon.”
“Good, gives me a few minutes to calm my nerves,” I say hugging her.
“Come in, Patrick will fix you a drink for your nerves. Liam and Hui are here too,” Lena says closing the door and leading me into the sitting room.
“Hi baby cousin,” Patrick says hugging me tightly. “Can I get you a drink?”
“I’m not the baby anymore, Patrick. And I’ll take a whiskey, please.”
Patrick moves to the bar cart pouring two fingers of amber liquid into a crystal tumbler. Handing me the glass Patrick says, “You will always be my baby cousin.”
“What about Manus, he’s younger than I am?”
“He’s my baby cousin too, you can have more than one baby cousin,” Patrick says with a smirk.
“Whatever,” I say having no real comeback.
“Baby cousin you made it,” I hear from behind me.
Rolling my eyes, I see Liam holding Hui’s hand, “Hey, I didn’t know you guys would be here. Where’s my bubby?”
Liam hugs me tight, “He’s with Mom getting pumped full of sugar and spoiled.”
Liam moves and Hui hugs me her baby bump making it challenging to hug her tight, “You look great, how much longer do you have?” I ask.
“Two more months and I can’t wait. This kid keeps kicking me in the ribs. Father is convinced he will be a footballer.”
“What does Jian think about becoming a becoming a big brother?”
“He is ecstatic about his baby brother and cousin,” Hui says with a giggle. I roll my eyes at Hui’s use of the baby cousin reference, a nickname that has stuck with me and Manus because we are the youngest cousins on our father’s side.
A middle-aged woman with short brown hair wearing a black power suite enters the room. “Sir, Mr. Volkov is here.”
“Thank you, Irene.”
Patrick leaves coming back a few minutes later with a man whom looks like he belongs in a GQ magazine. With chin length dirty blond, stormy gray eyes, and a muscular body wrapped in a white button-down shirt, charcoal tweed jacket, and dark blue jeans. “Shauna, this is Maks Volkov. Maks this is Shauna Daly,” Patrick says introducing us.
“It is nice to meet you, Shauna,” Maks says with a thick Russian accent.
“It’s nice to meet you, Maks.”
“Can I get you a drink, Maks,” Patrick calls from the bar cart Lena tucked into his side.
“A brandy, please,” Mask answers.
“Maks, this is my brother Liam and his wife Hui,” Patrick says introducing the rest of the party.
I feel awkward, and out of place as Liam and Hui are quietly discussing something in Chinese on the couch while Patrick is gently stroking Lena’s cheek, whispering something in her ear. “So,” I say to Maks trying to break the awkward silence. “Are you from D.C?”
“No, I am in town for work. I live in Philadelphia.”
“What kind of work do you do?” I ask curiously.
“I am a museum curator for the Philadelphia Natural history museum,” Maks tells me.
“No offense but that seems like an odd job for the son of a Pakhan.”
Maks smirks, “We have learned to adapt, like your Family.”
“Okay,” I drawl. Something in his tone is telling me he will not elaborate. “What brings you to D.C?”
“I am acquiring ancient Greek artifacts from a private collector,” Maks explains, “What do you do?”
“I’m the lead app developer for Kinsman communication.”
“What is that?” Maks asks.
“I approve and help develop the applications on your phone and for Kins T.V.”
“You play on the computer all day?” Turning to Patrick Maks says, “Why did you set this up? She is a geek, this will never work,” Mak’s barks turning to leave the room.
“Excuse Me?” I demand.
“Maks,” Patrick barks back. “Your father asked for you to marry into our Family. He trusted my judgment to hand pick someone to stand by your side as Pakhan. Shauna is someone who will not only stand by your side but is your equal in every way. If you leave now, you can explain to your father why the Vory will not be joining The Family,” Patrick growls stepping into Maks’ personal space forcing him to take a step back. Liam rises from the couch coming to his brother’s side.
Lena comes to my side hugging my shoulders silently apologizing for their guest’s behavior. I grind my back teeth trying to keep my thoughts to myself while Patrick gives Maks a dressing down. Maks make a groaning sound low in his chest; he is not used to being told off by anyone.
“Now apologize to Shauna,” Patrick demands.
Relenting quickly Maks turns his attention back toward me, “I apologize for my rudeness, please forgive me, Shauna.”
I nod my answer; if I try to answer, I will tell Maks precisely what I think of him and embarrass Patrick and Lena. Thankfully Irene enters the room announcing dinner is ready.
Lena pulls me into the dining room taking the seat to my right; Hui follows taking the place on my left, offering their silent support. The men file in one-at-a-time Patrick and Liam sitting across from their wives, while Maks sits across from me. He offers me a sheepish smile, but I choose the high road and ignore him. How could Patrick imagine this asshole and I would ever get along let alone get married?
Dinner is tense; Lena and Hui try to make small talk, but I focus on eating and leaving as quickly as possible without choking. Maks seems to do the same answering questions addressed to him. After the plates from the dessert are cleared, I politely refuse a drink and leave. No one, not even Patrick Love has the power to make me stay and endure such rude, calluses behavior. Calling me a geek because of my job, he’s a museum curator doesn’t that make him a nerd, but I was kind enough not to point that out.
Driving into the city, I call my father, “What the hell were you thinking?” I ask when he answers the phone.
“I’m guessing your meeting didn’t go well,” Dad replies in his deep voice.
“That would be an understatement. After five minutes of talking, he declared me a geek and couldn’t be with me because of it.”
“What?” My father roars into the phone.
“Don’t worry. Patrick gave him what for and made him apologize. But next time he asks if he can marry me off tell him thanks but no thanks. I’d rather live with a house full of cats than be treated like that again.”
“You’re allergic to cats, Shauna,” Mom says in the background.
“Exactly. I’m willing to die from anaphylactic shock then deal with an asshole like that again.”
“Where are you?” My father asks.
“Driving home.”
“Are you sure you should drive? You’re upset.”
“I’m fine. I needed to vent.”
“Okay baby girl, drive home safe, and I’ll see you tomorrow. Text me when you get home,” Dad demands.
“I will. Love you.”
“Love you too,” I say ending the call.
***
Saturday morning I’m sitting in the kitchen finishing my coffee, waiting for Mom and Dad to pick me up on their way to the airport. The whole family is meeting in Florida to watch Manus play for the Pensacola Hurricanes. At a quarter to seven, there is a knock on my door; rinsing my coffee cup I pick up my weekend bag, and join Dad on the front stoop locking the door. Hugging me tight, Dad takes my bag from me and asks, “How are you doing baby girl?”
“I’m okay,” I say feeling a little defeated. Secretly I was hoping my meeting with Maks would have gone better; I want what my parents have, a committed, loving relationship.
Dad hugs me again tighter this time, “It will be okay baby girl. Your mister right is out there somewhere.”
“Thanks, Dad,” I whispered kissing him on the cheek. No matter how old I am my dad knows how to make me feel better.
“Okay, now let’s catch our flight to see Manus,” Dad says walking me to the car where Mom and twin older brothers, Brenn and Carson are waiting for us. The twins are identical; the easiest way to tell them apart, if you don’t know them, is Brenn has a small scar above his left eye from fighting with Connor Jr. or CJ, our oldest brother.
“Who do we need to kill?” Brenn and Carson say together studying my face.
Smiling, I wrap my arms around their waists and hug my two favorite brothers. “Thank you.”
“You only have to say his name, we will take care of the rest,” Carson says opening the door and sliding into Dad’s Discovery Land Rover, Brenn following.
Mom rolls down her window, “Oh honey, a weekend in the sun is what you need.”
“Thanks, Mom,” I tell her sliding into the third row behind my brothers.
***
“Why didn’t I know we had a plane?” I say to Kagen as we board.
“We don’t, I do,” Kagen answers with a smirk.
“But the side of the plane says, Kinsman.”
“A tax write-off.”
“FYI, when you send me to those dull conferences I’m not flying commercial anymore,” I tell Kagen before moving behind him to hug my Aunt Regina.
“Give him hell,” Regina says loud enough for Kagen to hear. Regina and Kegan’s relationship differs from most of the arranged marriages in The Family. Kegan married Regina as our way into the Italian mafia; while they didn’t need our help, we needed theirs. Kegan was asked to marry Regina, a descendant of three of the five families.
Kagen laughs snaking his arm around Regina’s waist, “Like you don’t give me enough,” he says kissing her.
“Gross get a room,” their twins, Tito and Sofia say.
“Hey, Tito. Hi Sofia,” I said hugging them.
“How is our favorite cousin?” Tito and Sofia ask.
“Hey what about us?” Brenn and Carson ask.
“Sorry Shauna and Manus have always been our partners in crime,” Tito says.
“If everyone could please take their seats we’ll be taxiing soon,” The captain requests before disappearing into the cockpit. Brenn, Carson, Tito, Sofia, and I spend the two-and-a-half hour catching up.
***
We meet my older siblings and their families along with Kagen and Regna’s eldest daughter at the resort in Pensacola.
“Manus will be here after practice. Let’s get checked into our rooms and settled before he gets here,” Dad instructs everyone.
Riding the elevator to the third floor, we each go to our separate rooms. After checking the bed to make sure it’s clean and bug-free I shower quickly.
Turning the water off and wrapping a towel around me there is a knock on the door, “Shauna open up,” Manus yells.
Slipping into a bathrobe, I wrench open the door, “Manus,” I yell jumping into his arms.
Manus hugs me tight before setting me on my feet, “Why are you wet and where the hell are your clothes?” My brother asks.
“I was finishing in the shower when you knocked.”
“Get dressed, and you can tell me everything then we’ll round up the rest of the crazies,” Manus says pushing me into the bathroom.
Closing the door, I pull on a pale yellow sundress and pull my hair into a high ponytail then jump onto the bed next to Manus. “I miss you so much. Tell me everything, Dad said Patrick is trying to marry you off.”
“Yeah, I don’t think that is happening,” I say rolling my eyes. “But work is great; I’m developing a new app with a built-in communication for The Family. Patrick and Lena say hello and they’ll be watching on Sunday.”
“Cool. Tell them I say hi back. Is that it? Nothing else is going on at home?”
“No, everything is the same. I don’t see CJ often, Caitlann is busy at Kindred Corp and the kids, Brenn and Carson are the same, in fact, Mom is threating to have Patrick marry them off.”
“I want to be there when she tells them they have to grow up or get married. Then I want to meet the girls willing to put up with their asses,” Manus laughs.
“Enough about me and home what is going on with you?”
“Right now, everything is practice, watching game tapes and workouts. During the season, I don’t have time for anything but work,” Manus says with a huge smile.
“You really love it, don’t you?”
“I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” Standing Manus takes my hands and pulls me off the bed. “Get your shoes on, and we’ll join the rest of the crazies.”
After a loud dinner with the whole family in the resort restaurant Manus, Brenn, Carson, Tito, Sofia and I sneak out to enjoy the Pensacola nightlife. Three Boilermakers, four shots of tequila, and two bars later Carson has tossed me over his shoulder and carried me into my hotel room.
***
“How the hell are you upright?” Tito asks as I sit down to breakfast the next morning.
“Because I’m awesome like that,” I say with a laugh.
“You just think you are. I’ve seen the pictures from last night you were a mess baby sister,” CJ says pulling on my ponytail.
“There are pictures,” I shout glaring daggers at Brenn and Carson.
“Oh, my god you should see your face,” Caitlann joins in the laughter.
“What is today, piss off Shauna day?” I ask the table.
“Okay let’s stop picking on Shauna, she’s had a rough week,” Mom says calling the table to order. “Listen up everyone, I know we are all excited to see Manus play today. But, the stadium is not as exciting for kids, so I have booked them a guided tour of LEGOLAND.”
All five kids go crazy jumping around and screaming at the top of their lungs. Brenn and Carson look pissed. “What do you mean they get to go to LEGOLAND? We begged you to take us to LEGOLAND for years, and they get to go?” Brenn asks pointing at our nieces and nephews.
“Really,” Dad deadpans. “You two were nineteen and could have gone on your own. Now everyone eats your breakfast so we can get this day started.”
***
After tailgating for a few hours, we take our seats at the fifty-yard line and watch the Hurricanes pummel the California Miners. After the game, Mom, Dad, Regan, and Kagen return to the hotel while the rest of us celebrate the win with the team.
We are sitting in the VIP room of a local bar the Hurricane players frequently visit. Sofia is on my right, Tito is on her right, and Manus is on my left. We are laughing and reliving old times; some of the other players are listening to our stories and laughing with us. “Manus you will never live this down,” one player says with a laugh.
“Don’t even try it, Larry,” Manus says.
“Are you two sweethearts single,” a large man asks with an eager look on his face.
“No way in hell are you are dating my sister or my cousin,” Manus yells back.
“Oh come on,” the man fires back.
“No fucking way, David. You’re a man whore.” Manus stands to look down at us, “Let’s go.”
Manus and Tito drag Sofia and me out of the bar, the rest of our siblings following and back to the resort. I hug Manus tight, “You’ll be home in a few weeks, right? For the fundraiser?”
“I will,” Manus says before giving me one last hug and leaves.
Chapter Three
A weekend with my family was exactly what I needed after my crappy week. On the flight home, Aunt Regina told me about Kagen and her first date. Let’s just say I’m, surprised they were ever married let alone have been together for thirty-five years. Shaking my head at what Kagen said to Regina I pull my laptop from its bag and get started on my day.
I’m ultra-focused working on the communication feature of Gnome Treasure as Sarah’s voice croons from the intercom, “You have a visitor, Shauna.”
Confused I ask, “Was I expecting a visitor?”
“No, he doesn’t have an appointment, but he told security it was personal.”
“Did he give a name?”
“Maks”
“My god, what does he want now? Send him up; thank you.”
Five minutes later Sarah is escorting Maks into my office, “Thank you for seeing me, Shauna.”
“You have some nerve showing your face here today. What do you want?”
“I was hoping you would let me take you to lunch.”
“And why would you do that? You made your feeling pretty clear Friday night,” I say standing from my chair and crossing my arms over my chest.
“I want to apologize properly, please have lunch with me. Let me show you I’m not as big of an asshole as I appeared Friday night,” Maks pleads.
“I would have to disagree with Mr. Volkov. You are a huge asshole who has no manners. What gives you the right to call me a geek; you are a history nerd. Please give me one good reason. I should spend more time with you?”
“Because I regret my actions Friday night and I want to show you I can be better, that I am better. Please let me take you to lunch and show you I am a good man.”
“This is your last and final chance; if you blow this, I don’t want to see your face again, you got it?” I ask pulling my messenger bag from its drawer and rounding my desk to the door.
“I understand,” Maks answers following me out of the office.
***
The server leaves us after dropping off our drinks and taking our lunch order. Leaning forward Maks takes my hands and brings them to his lips kissing each one of my knuckles. “Thank you for giving me another chance.”
“Don’t mess it up,” I volley back. “Tell me about yourself.”
“What do you want to know?”
“Everything.”
“Everything? That is a lot to fit into a lunch hour,” Maks states with a laugh as the server brings our lunches. “Well, I was born in Khimki, a small city northwest of Moscow. When I was ten, my father moved us to Philadelphia. The Pakhan who ran Philadelphia was dying and had no living children. They killed the man he trained to take his place while negotiating with the Armenians. The Pakhan called the Vory elders to send someone, and they chose my father to take his place.”
“Wow, that must have been difficult for you and your family.”
“Philadelphia has a large Russian population who helped us with the transition.”
“Any brothers or sisters?” I ask in between bites of my salad.
“Three younger sisters, Nika is twenty-seven, Rozalina is twenty-four and Lada is twenty.”
“What do they do?”
“Do?” Maks asks confused again by my question.
“They don’t have jobs?”
“We are traditional once a woman is married. Her job is to care for the house and children. Nika and Rozalina attend ladies’ meetings and host fundraiser for local charities. Lada is going to school for computer engineering at Pen State.”
“Wow, smart girl. I have to ask is that what you want from me, to stay home and care for the house and kids.” If so, this won’t work.
“Can we discuss this at a later date? We are still getting to know each other, but being a Pahkan’s wife is a demanding job.”
“Okay.”
“Okay?”
“My father is a Rear Admiral in the Navy, the parties and meetings he has to host keeps my mom busy. If being a Pahkan’s wife is anything like that, I understand.”
The server returns to clear our plates and drop off the check. Mask pulls his wallet from an inside jacket pocket and says, “Unfortunately I have to return to Philadelphia tonight, but I’ll be back in two weeks. Can I call while I’m gone?”
“I guess,” I say biting my lip and handing him my phone. Maks punches in his number then texts himself, he has my number.
Maks walks me back to my office then kisses me on the cheek, “Thank you for lunch, Maks.”
“You are welcome, Shauna. I’ll call you later.”
***
Shortly after arriving home my doorbell rings, not expecting anyone I guess Mom is in the city and popped by unannounced. I’ve asked her a million times to call her before coming over, but she does what she wants. Answering the door, I find a florist delivery man with a massive bouquet of pink carnations, pink roses, and lily of the valley in a pastel purple vase. The man hands me the vase, “I don’t know what your man did, but he must be really sorry.”
“Why do you say that?” I ask plucking a five-dollar bill from my pocket.
He shakes his head at my tip, “It’s been taken care of Miss. These flowers mean I’m sorry, and he paid a pretty penny to have them rushed to you tonight.”
“Thanks,” I say closing the door and removing the card from its holder.
Shauna, thank you for giving me a second chance you won’t regret it.-Maks-
Setting the vase of flowers on the table, I hunt down my phone. Finding it on the kitchen counter, I find Maks' number and type a quick text.
Me: Maks thank you for the flowers they are beautiful.
Maks: You are welcome. What are you doing tonight?
I debated on whether to make up something more exciting than what I’m doing but go with the truth.
Me: Staying in and making dinner. You?
Maks: Dropping off the acquisition off at the museum then I’m spending the rest of the night in working.
Me: We are an exciting bunch. Lol.
Maks: We are. What are you doing tomorrow?
Me: Work, you?
Maks: Work then dinner with my family.
Me: Sounds like fun. I’ll talk to you tomorrow. Good night.
Sighing with contentment I hold the phone to my chest, maybe things with Maks will be the forever kind of love Mom and Dad have.
Setting the phone on the table, I shake my head, “What the hell Shauna Daly? You’ve known this man for less than one day, and you’re thinking about love?” Now I should be committed wanting true love with a man I don’t know and talking to myself. Turning on music I move to the kitchen to make dinner.
***
The next morning, I dive into work; Patrick and Kegan want the gnome treasure game working before Labor Day weekend, six weeks away. The Python programming prompt appears on my screen, and I compose if-then statements for the communication feature. I’m three hours into my script when Sarah knocks on my door coming in with a large vase of lavender roses. “Who are those from?” I ask.
Sarah hands me the card, “Open it and find out.”
Opening it, I find another note from Maks.
Shauna, I saw these and thought of you. I miss you and your sharp tongue. See you in two weeks.-Maks-
Snapping a picture of the vase and send it to Maks.
Me: Thanks for the flowers again ;)
Maks writes back within seconds.
Maks: You are welcome.
I count the number of long stem roses in the vase.
Me: Why are there thirteen flowers rather than twelve?
Maks: Even numbers are bad luck in Russian culture.
Me: Okay. Why do you keep sending me flowers?
Maks: Because I like you, thought you would have figured that out, smart girl.
Me: I figured.
Maks: Then why did you ask?
Me: Because it’s weird. You come into my office Monday apologize then leave town with I’ll see you later. Then you send me flowers.
Maks: It is not weird; it is what men do when they are sorry and want to show a woman they are interested in her.
Me: No, no it’s not. I don’t know any men that do that.
Maks: I do : )
Me: Then you are one in a million.
Maks: Thanks.
Me: Whatever, I have to get back to work.
Maks: Me too. TTYL.
It takes another three hours to finish the if-then statements because I keep looking up from the screen to look at my flowers. After the statements are done, I test the game. Entering the secret garden, the game skips then freezes. “You will be the death of me,” I growl at my computer.
“You know it will not talk back, right?” I jump and look up and see Mom standing in the doorway.
“Mom, what are you doing here?”
“I was shopping for a dress for a state dinner this week I haven’t seen you in a few days and wanted to take you to dinner. Who are these from?” Mom asks as she smells the roses on my desk.
“Sure dinner would be nice. The flowers are from Maks.”
“The man from Friday night?”
“Yeah, he came by Monday to apologize for his behavior.”
“Wow, and he sent flowers?”
“This is actually the second vase of flowers he sent. He sent a large vase of flowers to my house last night.”
“Marry him,” Mom blurts. “Do you know how rare it is for a man to send flowers not once but twice?”
“I do. I told Maks too.”
“Maybe there is hope,” Mom says as we walk into the waiting elevator.
***
“Hi pchelka,” Maks greets me when I answer my phone.
“Hi Maks,” I say smiling.
“How was your day?”
“Ugh, frustrating. I spent all day writing if-then statements in Python. Then I went to test the program it seized up; it took me and two programs to read the code to find the sequence was out of order. Tomorrow I must change the program sequencing. How was your day?”
“Exciting, we received an exhibit on loan from China of the Xia Dynasty, the oldest dynasty in China. I wish you were here to see it.”
“I wish I was there too. When are you coming back to D.C?”
“Umm, I’ll be there late next week.”
“That sucks.”
“It does. So, what are you wearing?”
“Maks,” I admonish him with a giggle.
“What you sounded sad, and now you don’t. But seriously what are you wearing?”
“Jeans and a T-shirt; I just got home from work. What are you wearing?”
“Basketball shorts, I ran and showered before calling you,” Maks answers. “I’ll let you go so you can eat. I’ll talk to you tomorrow.”
“Bye,” I say ending the call.
I spend the rest of the night picturing Maks sitting on the couch in nothing but basketball shorts fresh from a shower. I shake my head, time for a shower before dinner.
***
Two days later Dad calls, “Hi baby girl I need to ask a big favor.”
“Anything Dad.”
“Will you come with me to a state dinner? Your mother is sick and can’t make it.”
“Tonight?”
“Yes, at seven.”
I look down at my watch it’s already four, “Um if I leave now, I should be ready in time.”
“Thank you baby girl; I’ll pick you up at six. Love you.”
“Love you too,” I reply ending the call. “Sarah,” I call out.
“Yes?”
“I need to leave. Is there anything on my calendar?”
“No, you’re free.”
“Thank you, Sarah. If anyone comes looking for me have them call me on my cell.”
“Will do.”
I leave the office hailing a cab to get home as fast as possible. Bolting through the front door, I shower quickly then pull my hair into a simple up do, add a light dusting of makeup before stepping into a plum column gown. Rummaging through my closet, I find a black clutch and black closed toe pumps giving me enough height, so the dress doesn’t drag on the ground. I clasp the buckle of the left shoe as Dad rings the doorbell. Racing downstairs I toss my ID, keys, and phone into my clutch then join Dad outside on the front porch.
“You look great baby girl,” Dad says hugging me.
“Thank you, you look good too.”
“Let’s go, or we’ll be late.”
Sliding into the back of the town car next to Dad I ask, “What is this dinner for?”
“The Russian President is here for a visit; this dinner is for him and his wife.”
After waiting in a hell of a long line of cars, Dad enters the State dining room with me on his arm. A man in an Air Force dress blue uniform shows us to our table where some of the other high ranking military members are sitting. Dad greets everyone by name and introduces me, then explains Mom is home sick and I was kind enough to fill in at the last minute.
Taking my seat I scan the room to see if I know anyone. I spot Maks seated at a table with a young blond girl in her late teens, older women, and a man who has to be his father.
Chapter Four
Why didn’t Maks tell me he’s back in town and why is he here? Does his father know the Russian President or did Samuel invite him? Hopefully, I can ask him after dinner. Scanning the room, I see Lena and Patrick sitting at the head table with Samuel and who I guess is the Russian President and his wife.
After everyone has taken their seats the doors are closed and Samuel stands taking the podium. “Good evening everyone. It is my great honor and privilege to welcome President Popov and his wife Yana. Our two countries have a long, tense history of being on opposite sides of the issues. This dinner is not only to welcome President Popov and his wife but also to celebrate our countries coming together, despite our past. Now please help me, welcome President and Mrs. Popov.” Everyone in the dining room claps as the two men shake hands.
President Popov takes the podium in a heavy Russian accent address the room, “Thank you for the warm welcome Mr. President. My wife Yana and I are pleased to be here cultivating such an important friendship between our two countries. We too are hoping to learn from the past and move forward with a stronger alliance.” Everyone claps again as the two Presidents shake hands.
“Please enjoy your dinner,” Samuel says before taking his seat.
I make small talk with the Generals and Admirals at our table as dinner is being severed.
“Shauna, your father was telling me you work at Kinsman Communication.” The man in an Air Force uniform says.
“Yes, sir,” I reply. “I’m the lead app developer.”
“What do you do?” A man in an Army uniform asks with a smile.
“I help make and approve the games on your phone and Kins T.V.”
“You’re the one responsible for my son playing on his phone rather than doing his homework,” an older lady asks.
“Yes, ma’am guilty as charged,” I say with a laugh.
After they have cleared the dessert dishes the orchestra begins playing, Dad leads me to the dance floor for a father-daughter dance. We share two songs before he kisses my cheek and tells me he has to work the room. I tell him to enjoy while I say hi to Lena and Patrick.
“Hi, Shauna. I didn’t know you would be here tonight.” Lena greets me as I approach their table.
“I was a last-minute replacement; Mom is sick with a nasty cold.”
“That’s a shame, I know she loves coming to these dinners.”
“She does. Anyway, how are you feeling? You look amazing.”
“See, I told you,” Patrick says. “I told her the same thing before we left the house, but she won’t believe me.”
“You are my husband; you have to tell me I’m pretty,” Lena says kissing Patrick on the cheek.
Mrs. Popov laughs, “I remember feeling the same way when I was pregnant. Don’t worry those feeling don’t last long and it is more than worth it.”
“Thank you,” Lena says with a glowing smile. “Sorry we are rude, Mrs. Popov this is my best friend, Shauna Daly. Shauna this is Mrs. Popov.”
“Oh, please call me Yana. Shauna Daly? You are dating my nephew?”
“Your nephew?” I ask confused.
“Maks Volkov, he is my nephew. His mother is my sister.” Yana explains.
“Oh yes, we started seeing each other recently,” I explain looking at Patrick and Lena for answers.
“He is a good boy, but sometimes he doesn’t think before he speaks,” Yana says with a laugh.
“I’ve noticed,” I say with a laugh.
Yana turns to her husband and says something in hushed Russian. President Popov turns to me, “It is nice to meet you, Shauna. I trust we will meet again.”
“Tetya Yana,” a deep voice says from beside me as a strong arm circles my waist. “I see you met my girlfriend,” Maks says.
Yana stands rounding the table hugging Maks and kissing his cheeks cooing to him in Russian. President Popov moves to embrace his nephew saying something to his in Russian as they look at me.
Maks makes our excuses and pulls me to an empty corner, “What are you doing here?” Maks hisses.
I shake my head pissed, “I told you my father is a Rear Admiral. He was invited; my mother is sick and couldn’t make it tonight. What the hell are you doing here? I thought you wouldn’t be back for a couple of weeks? Is everything you say a lie?” Turning I try to stomp off but Maks catches my arm and slams his lips down on mine forcing my lips apart with his tongue. I pull back and slap him, “What the hell are you doing?”
“Kissing my girlfriend,” Maks states slowly.
“Not until you answer my questions.”
Maks keeps my hand in his playing with my fingers. “Sorry I did not call you. I was not sure I would make tonight’s dinner until we board the plane. My father wanted the whole family here to support my aunt and uncle. I never met to lie to you. I was going to call you first thing tomorrow.”
“I’m telling you right now Maks Volkov; I dislike liars. If you can’t be honest with me, then this ends now.”
“I am not a liar and would never purposely lie to you.”
I study his face but see no sign he’s telling what I want to hear, “Okay.”
“Now can I kiss my girlfriend?” Maks asks with a dazzling smile.
“Now you ma-.” Maks presses his lips to mine before I finish talking sliding his tongue along the seam of my lips. Breaking the kiss Maks pants, “I would like you to meet my family.”
“Then you can meet my dad,” I reply taking Maks' hand and following him across the dining room to his table.
As we get closer to his table, my palms sweat, and my heart feels like it will beat out of my chest. “Do not worry they will love you,” Maks says kissing me on the temple.
Maks stops at the table, “Mom, Dad this is my girlfriend, Shauna. Shauna these are my parents, Gennadi and Alla Volkov. These are my sisters and their husbands, Nika her husband Stas Petrov, Rozalina her fiancée Ioann Orlov, and my baby sister Lada.”
“It is nice to meet you all.”
“Oh it is very nice to meet the woman who has Maks tied in knots,” Stas says his Russian accent thicker than Maks. I blush at his statement and look up at Maks.
“Stop embarrassing Shauna,” Maks breaks in.
“Please sit,” Gennadi says.
Sitting Alla says, “Shauna tell us about yourself,” her voice is soft but stern. I can tell she is trying to size me up, making sure I’m good enough for her baby boy.
I chew on my lower lip then word vomit the first thing that comes to mind, “My father is a Rear Admiral at the Pentagon, my mother is sick, and I’m his date. I have three older brothers, one older sister, and a younger brother. I am the lead app developer at Kinsman Communication.” I look around the table Maks parents are still studying me, his sisters and their other half’s looks bored, but Lada seems star stuck.
“Finally found a smart woman with a job,” Nika says with a laugh.
Maks shots something back in Russian. Alla gives them both a mom look staying something in Russian making them both stop and look apologetic.
“Let us visit your father,” Maks says helping me from my seat.
Making our way to the Admiral’s table, I get nervous again. “Pchelka do not worry, it will be okay,” Maks says giving my hand a light squeeze.
“Excuse me,” I say as Dad is laughing at a general’s joke. They turn to see me and Dad’s jaw ticks when he sees Maks. “Dad, this is Maks, my boyfriend.”
Dad stands from the table, “You’re the one who made my little girl cry?”
“Dad,” I admonish him.
“Yes, sir,” Maks answers.
“Don’t ever let it happen again or else,” Dad says extending his hand and shaking Maks' hand.
Maks takes Dad hand and nods, “I want to make your daughter happy. Our first meeting was a poor representation of myself; it will not happen again.”
“Good,” Dad replies and gestures for us to sit.
***
“You are chipper,” Mom says the following Saturday at our weekly afternoon lunch at Fig & Olive in City Center.
“I see it too, you’re glowing,” my sister Caitlann says.
I sigh knowing they will not let this go, “Maks,” I say knowing this will drive them crazy.
“Who’s Maks?” Caitlann asks.
“Dad said he was quite the charmer at the State Dinner,” Mom says.
“He was, I really like him,” I say blushing.
“I’m happy for you baby girl,” Mom says rubbing my arm.
“When do we get to meet this Maks?” Caitlann asks.
“I don’t know we only started dating.”
“Friday the whole family will finally be together for the annual gala, bring him with you,” Mom demands.
“I’ll ask him tonight,” I reply biting into my F&O burger.
***
“Kate Spade’s first,” Caitlann says. “You need a dress for your date tonight.”
“I don’t need new dresses I have plenty,” I tell her and Mom.
“Honey, when was the last time you bought a new one? Lena’s wedding?” Mom asks.
“No. I wore one I already had.”
“Exactly; you need to update your wardrobe, sweetie.”
“Fine, two dresses.”
Caitlann and Mom drag me into Kate Spade. Pulling dresses off the rack at an alarming rate; they hold them up trying to find the perfect dress for my date tonight. “This is stupid. None of these will look good on me, let’s go home,” I say turning to leave.
“No, you don’t,” Caitlann says grabbing my arm. “Stay, we will find you the perfect dress for tonight.”
“This isn’t me,” I say gesturing at the surrounding clothes. “I’m jeans and t-shirt girl, not dresses and ruffles.”
“Sometimes you have to step outside your comfort zone to find things you like,” Mom tells me.
Caitlann holds up a black minidress with red poppies, “This is the dress.”
“It looks like they made it for a twelve year and it is too short,” I say pointing at the dress she’s holding. “My hoo-ha will hang out.”
“This will look perfect on you and your vag is not going to hangout. It will show the perfect amount of leg driving your Maks crazy,” Caitlann says pushing me into the dressing room.
Striping off my jeans and sweater I pull the dress on and slide my hands over the skirt. Glancing in the mirror I’m shocked how it showcases my curves.
“Come show us,” Mom says.
Opening the dressing room door Mom and Caitlann coo and fuss over me. “This dress was made for you,” Mom whispers in my ear as she kisses my cheek.
“Maks will not know what hit him. Do you want me to help with your hair and makeup?” Caitlann asks.
“Yes, please. I’m nervous; this will be our first real date.”
“There is no need to be nervous, he will love you. Now go change so we can find dresses for Friday night,” Mom says hugging me.
After changing and paying for the dress, we walk down the block to Bloomingdale’s. Mom and Caitlann quickly find dresses for the gala. I flip through the rack not seeing a single dress I like. Mom holds up one resembling a plaid sack; I shake my head. Caitlann flips through the dresses and holds up a mermaid gown. The top is solid black with bobbed sleeves while the skirt is decorated with large pink and red flowers. I nod, “It’s perfect.”
***
“Okay sweetie go shower then I’ll help do your hair and makeup,” Caitlann says taking a seat on the couch and turning the TV on.
Skipping upstairs to my bedroom, stripping quickly and step into the shower letting the hot spray wash away my fears and anxiety. Turning off the water and towel drying my skin the anxiety rears its ugly head again. Taking a deep breath and pulling my robe on I yell for Caitlann, “I’m done!”
Walking into my bedroom, she points to the chair at the vanity table, “Have a seat.” Opening a drawer Caitlann finds a round brush and pulls it through my wet locks. Looking at me in the mirror she says, “Don’t worry he will love you,” then turns on the hairdryer. Satisfied with my hair Caitlann turns me in the chair picking up a makeup brush and telling me to close my eyes. “Is this necessary? I mean he’s already seen me without all this,” I say pointing to my face.
“Yes, now stop talking.”
“But I want him to like me not all this.”
“I know you’ve had much luck with men. This is not to make him like you; this is to attempt to show him you are serious about getting to know him.”
“What if I do all this and he still doesn’t want me?”
“Then it’s his loss, and we’ll let the boys kick his ass,” Caitlann says making me giggle. “Now close your eyes and let me finish your makeup before he gets here.”
“I can’t wear this,” I say pointing to the mini dress.
“Why not? You look amazing in it.”
“I can’t wear a bra, and my boobs are too big.”
“Don’t worry I have the tape,” Caitlann says pulling a roll of tape from her purse.
“Tape?”
“It’s double sided tape to tape your girls into place. Trust me; I do it all the time. And these,” Caitlann says putting small flower stickers placing them on my nipples, “are pasties. They keep your nipples from showing through your dress.”
Caitlann helps me into my dress being mindful of my hair and makeup. Leaving me to zip my knee-high black boots the doorbell rings, “I got it,” Caitlann yells.
“Great,” I mutter to myself hurrying to join them. Rushing downstairs I overhear Caitlann telling Maks, “If you treat my sister less than the princess she is I will hunt you down and let our brothers beat you.”
“Yes Ma’am,” Maks answers.
I join them in the entryway, and Maks' eyes grow wide with surprise, and a Cheshire smile spreads across his face. Reaching his side, he pulls me close kissing me on the cheek, “You look amazing,” he whispers handing me thirteen red long stem roses.
“Thank you, these are beautiful,” I say placing them in an empty vase on the entryway table.
“Okay, you crazy kids have fun,” Caitlann says joining her husband, Chase who is standing at the curb leaning against his Jag.
“Sorry about her. She is crazy protective of me and my younger brother,” I explain.
Maks chuckles, “It is okay I am the same way with my sisters. Are you ready for dinner?”
“I need my purse,” I say walking into the living room and picking it up from the table. Rejoining Maks in the entryway I say, “I’m ready.”
As Maks helps me into his Aston Martin Vanquish, I ask, “Where are we going?”
“I made our reservations at Zaytinya,” He answers shutting the door.
“Fancy,” I joke.
“Only the best for you,” Maks answers kissing my hand before sliding the car in gear and racing across the city.
Once we are seated at our table Maks turns his stormy gray eyes on me, “It’s your turn, Shauna, tell me everything about you.”
“My dad is in the Navy, so we moved around a few times. I was born in Guam; then we moved to Hawaii, Greece, Japan, and Italy. My dad was promoted to Rear Admiral, they stationed him in D.C. when I was fifteen. My parents have been married for Thirty-seven years. I have four brothers, three older, one younger and my older sister, Caitlann. My oldest brother Connor Jr or CJ is thirty-five, in the navy, married with two boys. The twins Brenn and Carson are thirty, and currently bartenders at a bar downtown and refuse to grow up. Manus is twenty-six and plays professional football for the Florida Hurricanes. Caitlann is thirty-two works for Patrick at Kindred Corporation in their marketing department; she is married with two girls and a boy.”
The server returns with our wine, “Are you ready to order?”
“Do you mind if I order for us?” Maks asks.
“Please,” I am assuming he knows what is good here.
After ordering for us, Maks asks, “You told me about your family, but what about you?”
“I’m twenty-eight; I have a Master’s degree in Computer Science from Georgetown. Kegan, my uncle, and CEO of Kinsman Communication hired me right of college as a programmer. I did programming for a couple of years then moved to app development. After a few years as a developer, they promoted me to the lead app developer.”
“You must be good for him to hire you for such an important job,” Maks states.
“I’m sure it was more because he’s my uncle,” I say blushing and taking a sip of my wine.
“I doubt that.”
“Well, thank you for saying so. A museum curator, how did that happen?” I ask curiously.
“I love history and traveling and being a curator allows me to do both. It also allows for certain items to be moved with few questions.”
“Aww, now it makes sense why you are a curator. Do you like it?” I ask as the server arrives with Siberian sturgeon black caviar with blinis.
Spooning caviar onto a blini and handing it to me; Maks says, “I do. Have you ever had caviar before?”
“I had it once at a party, it wasn’t great,” I say taking the blinis from him.
“It must have been the cheap stuff,” Maks says taking a bite of his own blinis.
“I have to ask, how do you see this working? I live and work in D.C., and you live and work in Philadelphia.” I need to know the facts before I let my heart get involved.
“In a perfect world, you would come to Philadelphia with me. I am in D.C. for the next couple of weeks, let us see how things go,” Maks says taking my hand and squeezing it.
“Okay,” I say biting my lip. “My parents are hosting a black-tie gala on Friday, and my mom would like me to invite you.”
“I would love to go,” Maks answer with a huge smile.
“I have to warn you my whole crazy family will be there and will interrogate you.”
Maks laughs, “Don’t worry I can take it.”
After dinner, which was perfect, Maks drives me home then gives me a heart-stopping kiss goodnight leaving me breathless on my doorstep.
Chapter Five
Friday morning starts with someone banging on my door. I fold my pillow over my ears to muffle the noise; after working fifteen-hour days, I deserved to sleep in on an off day. “Shauna get your butt down here we have a gala to get ready for,” Caitlann yells.
Why the hell did I give her a key? I ask myself before rolling on my back and taking a deep breath. “Sweetie are you up? We have an appointment at the spa,” Mom says tapping at my door.
Sighing I answer, “Yeah, start the coffee and I’ll be down in a minute.” Rolling out of bed and stepping into the shower letting the hot water wash over me, giving me the strength to spend the day with my mother and sister. Turning off the water and toweling off quickly I toss on a pair of jeans and a baby pink tank top.
I slowly walk downstairs to meet Mom and Caitlann in the kitchen. Caitlann hands me a travel mug of coffee looping her arm around mine and pulls me to the door, “Come on the spa will not wait for us.”
“Fine,” I grumble following her to the door.
“Don’t sound so excited, Shauna,” Caitlann chastises me.
“Sorry, I’ve been working fifteen-hour days and was planning on sleeping in today.”
“I’m a mom I work twenty-four hours a day and haven’t slept past seven in years. So, suck it up.”
“Do you see any kids running around here?”
“Soon I hope,” Mom says.
“Mom,” I whine. “Why don’t you bug the twins, they’re older than me, and they still haven’t settled down yet.”
“Oh, don’t worry if they don’t grow up soon. I will tell Patrick to marry them off.”
Caitlann and I laugh knowing that won’t go well.
***
The spa is bright with white walls and pastel blues and purples ascents while soft classical music plays in the background. “Good morning Mrs. Daly,” Kathy the day spa manager greets us. “Here for a girl’s spa day?”
“Yes, Connor and I are hosting our yearly gala tonight. The girls and I are here for some pampering,” Mom answers.
“Would you like the full treatment package?”
“Yes, please,” Mom says with a broad smile.
“Right this way ladies, I have you starting with massages,” Kathy says leading us to the changing rooms to change.
Mom, Caitlann and I undress and pull on one spa’s fluffy baby blue robes and matching slippers. Exiting the changing room, we find Kathy waiting to escort us to our massage room.
Sixty minutes later Kathy lightly knocks on the door, joining Mom and Caitlann in the hall I laugh at the look on Caitlann’s face, “That good, huh?”
“Shut up, you have the same look,” she shoots back.
“Derek is my future husband.”
“Oh, and what’s Maks going to say about that?”
“If Maks has hands like Derek, he’ll be back to being number one.”
“Derek’s wife may have something to say,” Kathy says under her breath.
“He’s married? He said nothing when I proposed.”
“He is, and they’re expecting their first child in three weeks,” Kathy says as we follow her into the facial room. “If you will have a seat, the technicians will be in shortly.”
As soon as we take our seats three technicians descend on the room and ask what type of facials, we would like this morning. Caitlann and I pamper ourselves with a gold facial. It helps to rejuvenate the skin, remove toxins and make your skin glow. Mom requests a collagen facial saying she is showing her age more and wants to look young for Dad. Caitlann and I shake our heads at her; Riana Daly is fifty-five and has had six children, none of which shows.
After our faces are glowing and feeling brand new, we move on to reflexology manicures and pedicures. Once our hands and feet have been massaged, paraffined and nails polished we return to the changing room for a shower then it’s off to hair and makeup.
***
“Krasotka,” Maks says handing me three white roses.
“Krasotka?” I ask taking the roses from him.
“It means gorgeous. You are stunning.”
“Thank you,” I replied blushing. “You’re not looking too bad yourself; in fact, I think you should wear a tux more often.”
Maks chuckles, “Are you ready to go?”
“Lead the way,” I answer picking my clutch up from the entryway table.
Maks leads me to a waiting town car, the driver opens the rear door for us. I slide in, and Maks closes the door then rounds the car taking his seat next to me.
“What did you do today?” Maks asks as the driver pulls into traffic.
“I spent the day with my mom and sister at the spa getting ready for tonight.”
“You look amazing. I mean you look good every time I have seen you but you look very nice tonight,” Maks says kissing my cheek.
“Thank you. What did you do today?”
“Worked. One of my museums biggest donors is assisting in the acquisition of a privately owned artwork by Vincent Van Gogh.”
“I love Van Gogh’s work.”
“Maybe one day we can visit his museum in Amsterdam,” Maks states.
“That would be awesome. I miss Europe,” I state as the driver pulled through the gate at my parent’s estate.
“This is where your parents live?” Maks asks as we pull through the gate and enter the estate.
“Yes, they needed a place large enough for all eight of us plus be able to host parties and foreign dignitaries.”
“This has more than enough room,” Maks says looking around.
The driver stops the car at the front door; coming around, the driver opens my door. Meeting Maks at the back of the car we walk hand in hand up the few steps to the front door. Greeted by Frank, the house manager he escorts us to the family room, “Are you sure about this, last chance to change your mind,” I joke.
“Don’t worry pchelka I can take anything they have,” Maks answers placing a soft sweet kiss on my lips.
Reaching the family room, we find my whole family including Samuel, Lena, Patrick, Patrick’s parents, and brothers and sister. Maks and I step through the doorway, and everyone goes quiet and stares at us. “Hi everyone this is Maks. Maks this is everyone.”
“Hi everyone,” Maks says with a little wave.
Mom and Dad are the first to approach. Mom is wearing an empire waist black gown while Dad is wearing his dress uniform. “Maks these are my parents, Connor and Riana Daly. Mom and Dad this is Maks Volkov.”
Maks shakes my parent’s hands, “It is nice to see you again Mr. Daly. Mrs. Daly, it is nice to meet you. Shauna speaks highly of you.”
“I’m glad you could make it,” Dad says shaking Maks hand.
Mom hugs Maks asking, “What do you do?” as Kegan and Regan come to join us.
“I’m a museum curator at the Philadelphia Natural history museum.”
“What brings you to Washington D.C.?” Kegan asks.
“Maks, this is my uncle Kegan and my aunt Regan,” I break in before Maks can answer.
“I’m here on vacation and spending time with Shauna,” Maks answers not intimated by my uncle or father.
“Are you planning on moving to D.C.?” Mom asks.
Maks sucks his lips into his mouth choosing his words carefully. Looking down at me, “We are seeing where things go before we make any life-changing decisions.”
“Smooth,” Kegan says with a chuckle.
“Let me introduce Maks to everyone else before the party starts,” I tell my parents, Kegan, and Regan.
“Hello,” I say hugging Lena and Patrick.
“I’m glad to see you came to your senses,” Patrick says shaking Maks hand.
“Yes, I realized my mistake and begged Shauna to forgive me,” Maks replies.
“Good, Shauna is one of the kindest people you will ever meet,” Lena says rubbing her baby bump. “Sorry, this little guy is kicking like crazy tonight.”
“May I?” I ask wanting to feel the baby kick.
“Of course,” Lena says taking my hand and placing it on the spot where the baby is kicking.
Samuel joins us placing his hand on Lena’s belly, “He’s running out of room in here.” Leaning down he says, “Don’t worry buddy you’ll be here soon.”
“I keep telling him the same thing,” Patrick says kissing his wife on the cheek.
“We’ll see you around I need to introduce Maks to the rest of the family,” I say.
We start with Caitlann; Maks already met her it will be an excellent warm up to introduce him to Chase. “We meet again,” Caitlann says as we approach.
“We do,” Maks replies kissing her cheek.
“Maks, this is Chase, Caitlann’s husband,” I say as Chase pulls me into his side kissing the top of my head. At almost seven feet, Chase is intimidating to some people, but he has always been a big softy with me.
“This is the new guy,” Chase says looking down at Maks. “I will warn you now; Shauna is my favorite sister, treat her right.”
I lightly hit him in the stomach, “I’m your only sister.”
Chase laughs and rolls his eye, “Yeah that makes you my favorite.”
“Whatever,” I say with a headshake. “Let me introduce you to my brothers,” I tell Maks.
“It was nice to see you again,” Caitlann tells Maks.
“You too. It was nice to meet you, Chase,” Maks says as I lead him to Brenn and Carson.
Brenn and Carson are talking animatedly to their dates. As we approach they stop talking and watch us. Taking a deep breath I say, “Hi guys this is my boyfriend Maks. Maks these are my brothers Brenn and Carson.”
They look him up and down before Brenn says, “We don’t like you.”
“You made our sister cry,” Carson finishes.
“I understand, and I would feel the same if it was one of my sisters. I promised I will treat Shauna like the princess she is,” Maks tell them.
“You better,” Brenn and Carson say together returning to their dates.
“Sorry about them,” I say to Maks as we walk across the room to CJ and his wife, Gwen who are talking to Manus and his longtime girlfriend Misty.
“It is okay pchelka. I treat my sister’s boyfriends the same, please don’t worry,” Maks tells me.
Gwen and Misty stop talking as we approach and I’m prepared for the worst as I say, “Hi guys this is my boyfriend Maks. Maks this is CJ and his wife Gwen and Manus and his girlfriend Misty.”
Manus steps forward and shakes hands with Maks, “Just make my sister happy.”
“That is my plan,” Maks answers with a smile.
“Good, as long as you stick to your plan we won’t have any problems,” CJ says placing a hand on Maks shoulder.
Misty and Gwen come to my side as we watch the guys talk, “You did really good Shauna. He’s hot,” Gwen says.
“Not as hot as Manus but yeah he’s hot,” Misty says.
“Misty, we’ve talked about this please do not refer to my brother as hot. It’s gross,” I scold her.
“Whatever,” Misty says with a laugh.
“I need everyone to listen up,” Mom says.
Maks moves back to my side pulling me in tight to his side as we listen to Mom. “The guests will arrive soon. If everyone can make their way to the backyard and line up for the receiving line; dates can take their seats at the two head tables.”
Following Mom and Dad into the backyard where two large tents are set, I kiss Maks before he offers Misty his arm and escorts her to the head tables. While anyone whose last name is Daly or has married into the Daly family is lining up to greet our guests.
***
Two hours later I’ve shaken hands with every wealthy person in the tri-state area. But now the tents are full, and I take my seat next to Maks as Dad takes the stage with Samuel. “Good evening everyone,” Dad starts. “I would like to thank each one of you for attending tonight to support our veterans. The money we raise here tonight will help fund programs for prosthetics, mental health counseling, and welcome home programs. Now if you will please give a warm welcome to President Samuel Walsh.”
Samuel takes the microphone from Dad, “Thank you, Connor. I want to thank everyone for coming and opening your checkbooks to support our veterans. Without their sacrifice, we would not have the freedoms we enjoy today. The Welcome Home foundation is a way for us to show our appreciation for their sacrifice but also to thank their families. Thank you again and enjoy your evening,” Samuel ends his speech and everyone claps as the band plays while Dad and Samuel join us at the head tables.
“Is everyone here a member of The Family?” Maks asks as the servers enter the tents placing salads on the tables.
“No, there are a few members, but most are wealthy people willing to pay the price per plate to meet the President.”
“Is it safe?”
“It is. Secret service is here, and Dad hired extra security to work the gala on top of the background checks everyone had to submit to.”
After a surprisingly edible dinner the band plays my parent’s favorite song, When A Man Loves A Woman by Percy Sledge, Mom and Dad take the dance floor for the first dance. “Mom and Dad share the first dance before inviting everyone to join in,” I explain to Maks. “Later there is a father-daughter dance.”
“Do I get to dance with you?” Maks asks taking my hand in his.
“You better,” I say pressing a chaste kiss to his lips.
“You two are sickeningly sweet,” Carson says.
“Oh, shut up Carson. Your poor date must feel neglected; you have barely talked to her all night.”
“Don’t worry about it,” Carson says with a cocky look on his face.
“Never mind,” I say rolling my eyes.
“How can you tell him and Brenn apart?” Maks whispers.
I get asked this a lot. Most people can’t tell the twins apart; Mom has gotten them confused once or twice. “I grew up with them and know their mannerisms. Until you’ve been around them long enough to learn their differences the best way to tell is Brenn has a small scar under his left eye.”
“At this time, Admiral and Mrs. Daly would like to ask you to join them on the dance floor,” the singer cuts in.
Maks stands and helps me stand leading me onto the dance floor. For such a large man Maks is light on his feet and graceful. As he spins me I giggle and ask, “Where did you learn to dance?”
“My mom taught me.”
“She must have been a great teacher.”
“She is. She home-schooled all four of us,” Maks tells me.
“What? Your mother home-schooled you and your three sisters?”
“She did.”
“If your sisters are anything like you she had her hands full.”
“Luckily for my mother, my sisters are far better behaved than I am,” Maks says with a chuckle.
When the song ends, Dad joins us asking if he can cut in. Maks releases me. As we dance the singer croons Frank Sinatra’s Fly Me To The Moon Dad says, “I don’t trust him.”
“We’re seeing where things go. I haven’t declared my undying love to him.”
“I know but be careful; he’s hiding something. Samuel doesn’t trust him or his father.”
“Then why is he allowing this?”
“We need the support the Russians can offer us. In the political realm, they are influential.”
“A keep your friends close and enemies closer kind of situation?”
“Exactly.”
“Don’t worry Dad I promise to be careful.”
The song ends and Dad kisses my forehead before passing me to Patrick. Patrick spends the song telling me the same things Dad did; he doesn’t trust Maks. I tell Patrick not to worry we’re going through the motions and getting to know each other.
“Good, because CJ will kill me if you get hurt,” Patrick says then looks over my shoulder. “What the fuck? Please excuse me,” Patrick says releasing me and marching across the room where Maks is dancing with Lena.
I follow Patrick knowing how protective he is of his wife and unborn child. “Do we have a problem here?” Patrick growls at Maks
“No, sir. I was keeping Lena company while you and Shauna danced.” Maks wraps his arm around my waist, and I melt into his side. “I meant no harm.”
Patrick nods, “No harm done.”
“Maks, why don’t I show you around the house,” I say breaking the tension.
***
As Maks walks me to the front door of my townhome, I ask, “Would you like to come in?”
With a smile he nods, “I would love to.”
Stepping into the entryway, “Would you like something to drink?”
“No pchelka,” Maks says pulling me tight to his chest and crushing his lips to mine. His hands roam my body as his tongue slides between my lips. Our tongues tangling together like old lovers. “Bedroom?” Maks asks panting.
I nod, taking Maks’s hand and lead him upstairs to my bedroom. As soon as we cross the threshold, Maks stops me, pulls the zipper of my dress down and lets it fall to my feet. His hands roam to my back unhooking my bra and letting it drop. Pressing his lips to the sensitive spot behind my ear, “You are so beautiful pchelka.” Kissing his way down my neck Maks hands move down my ribs to my panties. Hooking his fingers around the waistband, he pulls them over my hips placing kisses on my body as he goes.
Spinning around, I push Maks tux jacket off his shoulders and onto the floor with my discarded clothes. Quickly untucking his shirt, I unbutton it and push it open and press open mouth kisses to his muscular pecs. Stars, symbols and Russian words decorate his pecks, abs, and biceps.
Maks scoops me into his arms, “Enough teasing,” he says placing me on the bed. Pushing his shirt off Maks undoes his belt and pants pushing them to the floor. Crawling up my spread legs Maks places kisses to the inside of my thigs. “You ready for me pchelka?”
“Yes,” I moan.
“Thank God,” Maks moans as he slides into me.