“I know,” she said quietly. “But right now, it’s what I have to work with.”
Leo placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. “If you ever need to talk or need anything, you know your brother is here.”
Amara smiled faintly, appreciating his support. “I know big brother.”
A week later, in Sochi, Russia:
Leo arrived in his private jet. As he descended the steps, he saw Emery running towards him, her face lighting up with joy.
“Ei, detka!” she exclaimed ‘Hey Babe’ in Russian, her voice full of excitement.
Leo caught her in a tight embrace, lifting her off the ground and twirling her around before setting her down and kissing her passionately. “Baby, I missed you so much,” he murmured against her lips.
Emery smiled, her eyes shining. “Let’s go, mom and dad are waiting for you at home.”
Leo looked at her with a playful glint in his eye. “How about you, did you wait for me?”
“Of course I did,” Emery replied, her voice soft but sincere.
Leo nodded, taking her hand as they walked towards their car. Emery settled into the driver’s seat, and Leo took his place beside her in the passenger seat. As they began the drive towards the Ivanov mansion, Emery’s excitement was palpable.
“I am so happy, Leo,” she said, her voice bubbling with enthusiasm. “Next week we will be Mr. and Mrs. Moretti.”
Leo laughed, squeezing her hand. “Of course, my future wife.”
Emery glanced at him, a mischievous smile on her face. “I have a surprise for you today.”
Leo’s curiosity was piqued. “What’s it?”
She shook her head, her smile widening. “I said, it’s a surprise.”
Leo chuckled, his anticipation growing. “I am already looking forward to it.”
When they arrived at the grand Ivanov mansion, both Emery’s mother, Tatiana Ivanov, and her father, Vladimir Ivanov, were waiting at the entrance. Their faces lit up as they saw Leo, their future son-in-law.
“Leo, welcome!” Tatiana greeted warmly, stepping forward to embrace him. “We’ve been looking forward to your visit.”
“Thank you, Aunty,” Leo replied, returning the embrace. “It’s always a pleasure to be here.”
Vladimir stepped forward, extending a hand. “Leo, it’s good to see you again.”
Leo shook his hand firmly. “Thank you, Uncle. It’s good to be back.”
Tatiana beamed, her eyes flicking between Leo and Emery. “Come inside, you must be hungry after your flight.”
Leo nodded. “A little, yes. Thank you.”
As they walked inside, Tatiana led them to the dining room where a lavish spread awaited them. They sat down, and the typical in-laws conversation began, filled with both warmth and subtle hints of the expectations that came with being part of family.
“So, Leo,” Tatiana began, her tone polite but inquisitive. “How are things back in Las Vegas?”
Leo paused, taking a moment to compose his thoughts before responding. “Busy, as always,” he replied. “The city never sleeps, and neither do we. Amara is currently training to handle the business.”
Tatiana’s eyes softened at the mention of Amara. “Your sister is intelligent and a good girl,” she said warmly.
Leo nodded, a hint of pride in his expression. “She is. Amara has been handling things very well. She’s sharp, and she’s quickly learning the ropes. I have no doubt that she’ll be a great asset to the business.”
Vladimir, who had been listening quietly, spoke up. “It’s good to see the younger generation stepping up. Family businesses thrive when everyone is involved and committed.”
“Absolutely,” Leo agreed. “Amara’s dedication has been impressive. She’s taken on a lot of responsibility and is handling it with grace.”
Tatiana smiled, clearly pleased. “You must be very proud of her.”
“I am,” Leo said sincerely. “We’ve always been close, and seeing her grow into her role has been rewarding.”
Emery, who had been sitting quietly beside Leo, squeezed his hand. “Your family is lucky to have such strong bonds. It’s not something you see every day.”
“Thanks, Emery,” Leo said, looking at her with affection. “Family means everything to us. It’s the foundation of everything we do.”
Tatiana nodded in agreement. “That’s the way it should be. A strong family is the backbone of any successful venture.”
Leo felt a sense of warmth at the support and understanding from Emery’s parents. It was reassuring to know that they valued the same principles he did.
Vladimir’s expression turned serious. “Some of my party’s ministers will be coming to your wedding,” he said, his tone indicating the importance of the matter.
Leo nodded, understanding the weight of the situation. “Don’t worry, I will focus on security. No media will enter the venue.”
Vladimir’s eyes narrowed slightly, scrutinizing Leo’s resolve. “Good,” he said after a moment. “So, you’re ready to join politics?”
Leo’s gaze was steady and determined. “I am,” he replied without hesitation.
Vladimir seemed satisfied with Leo’s response, but there was an unmistakable weight in his next words. “You understand what this means, don’t you? Politics is not just about power; it’s about responsibility, about managing not just your interests but those of the people.”
Leo nodded again, his expression resolute. “I understand. I’m ready to take on that responsibility.”
Tatiana, who had been listening quietly, placed a gentle hand on Leo’s arm. “We believe in you, Leo. We know you’ll make us proud.”
Emery squeezed his hand, her eyes filled with support and love. “You’ll be great, Leo. I know you will.”
Vladimir nodded approvingly before turning serious. “You know, we don’t have any problem with your background, but people… they can be nosy. They will dig, and they will judge.”
Leo met Vladimir’s gaze steadily. “Don’t worry. They won’t be able to find anything. We’ve made sure of that.”
Tatiana interjected, her tone softer but no less concerned. “We trust you, Leo, but this is a delicate matter. Our family’s reputation is at stake, as well as yours.”
“I understand,” Leo assured them. “We’ve taken every precaution. My past won’t be an issue.”
Vladimir leaned back, his expression thoughtful. “Good. We can’t afford any scandals, especially not now with the elections coming up.”
Leo nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. “I’ll make sure everything goes smoothly.”