Break Me: A Dark Russian Mafia Romance (Dmitriyev Bratva Book 4) by Piper Stone

Author:Piper Stone [Stone, Piper]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Stormy Night Publications
Published: 2025-11-21T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER 18

Alexsey

As I stood in the doorway of Emily’s room, I marveled at how entirely different Halle was with her daughter. At least in reference to her feisty personality when dealing with me. She was so calm, collected, and loving that her actions and the tone of her voice reminded me of so many times spent with my mother.

At least my childhood had been mostly typical of a big loving family. Of course, I’d never had to endure spending even a day living in Moscow, having been born and raised in the United States. That didn’t mean the heritage or legacy of my father and uncle hadn’t been honored. I’d been required to learn to read and write Russian at an early age.

While I rarely spoke the language, understanding the words my father had spouted off had been necessary since he refused to set aside the old ways. He’d been a tough man, enough so I’d hated him until I’d reached my twenties.

But at least I’d grown up with and still had him around for advice. Even though I might not like to hear what he had to say.

Halle had the burden of being both Emily’s mother and father. The breadwinner. The provider. The security blanket. Who did she have to take care of her? Yes, at least she had her sister, but that was different.

Maybe I was a bit old-fashioned in the sense I believed women should be protected and cherished. That was something I valued from the love shared between my parents.

“It’s time to go to sleep, baby girl,” Halle said as she closed the book she’d been reading and lovingly brushed her fingertips across her daughter’s face.

“Can’t Mr. Boyfriend read me a story too, Mommy?” Emily’s voice was hopeful.

I stifled a laugh, doing my best to remain in the shadows. The little girl had decided calling me her mother’s boyfriend was easier than using Alex, which is what I’d introduced myself as.

“Nice try, little snort. But no. You need your rest. You had a big night.”

A big night of making perhaps the best pizza I’d had in my life and watching a movie that had delighted Emily. Her squeals when watching Dumbo would remain with me for a long time.

Emily huffed in the exaggerated way she’d done several times. “Okay. Maybe tomorrow?”

Another hopeful question.

“We’ll see. Now, dream about princes and big white horses.”

“Dogs. Can I dream about a dog?”

I adored hearing Halle laughing, letting go when I sensed she remained tense all the time. “Of course you can.”

“I want Santa to bring me a puppy. That’s all I want for Christmas.”

“We’re a long way away from Christmas, my child.” Halle stood, tucking in the covers around her daughter and placing the book in the bookshelf.

“I know.” Emily rolled over, snatching a cute purple teddy bear.

Halle hadn’t realized I’d been watching their interaction, her look when she turned around one of surprise. I immediately felt as if I’d invaded their privacy.

Until Halle smiled and slowly headed to the door, placing her index finger against her lips before turning out the main light.

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