44. Cassius

44

CASSIUS

I can’t believe I’m working after being shot just a few weeks ago. The pain in my side throbs, reminding me of the close call. But I try to focus on the task at hand, blowing up balloons for the twins’ birthday party.

“Stop whining, Cassius,” Isabella scolds me with a playful smirk. “The doctor said you’re fine—remember?”

“Easy for you to say,” I grumble, tying off another balloon and tossing it onto the growing pile. “You weren’t the one who took a bullet.”

“True,” she concedes, flicking a strand of her dark hair behind her ear. “But you’re stronger than that, right? Besides, the party won’t set itself up.”

“Fine, fine.” I roll my eyes but can’t help feeling a swell of gratitude for Isabella’s relentless teasing. It keeps my mind off the ever-present danger lurking in the shadows. And for today, I want to focus on creating a perfect day for the twins.

“See?” Isabella beams as I blow up another balloon, her blue eyes twinkling with mischief. “That’s more like it. Now, keep going—we’ve got a lot more to do.”

As I continue to inflate balloons, the ache in my side fades into the background, replaced by thoughts of family and love. Today is about them, and I’ll push through any discomfort to make sure it’s a day they’ll never forget.

A waft of sweet vanilla fills the air as Annalise steps into the room, cradling the meticulously decorated cake in her slender arms. The sight of her brings a smile to my face, and I can’t help but admire the way she’s managed to put everything together with such grace and precision. From the perfectly arranged tables to the color-coordinated decorations, every detail has been accounted for—all for our beloved twins.

“Look at this masterpiece,” Annalise beams, setting the cake down on the table with a triumphant flourish. “I swear, if I didn’t know any better, I’d think it was professionally done.”

“Wow,” I breathe, chuckling at her enthusiasm. “You’ve really outdone yourself, Lily. It looks amazing.”

“Thank you,” she replies, her emerald eyes sparkling with pride. “I just want everything to be perfect for them.”

As we share a warm smile, I catch a glimpse of Gina, one half of the twin duo, skipping over to me with excitement dancing in her eyes. She gazes up at me with an innocent curiosity that tugs at my heartstrings.

“Uncle Cassius,” she pipes up, her voice as sweet as the cake Annalise just brought in. “Can I play with a balloon?”

“Of course, princess,” I reply, bending down to pick up one of the inflated balloons from the pile. As I hand it to her, I can’t resist teasing her a little. “But only if you promise not to let it go and send it flying across the room.”

Gina giggles, clutching the balloon tightly in her small hands. “I promise!”

“Good girl.” I ruffle her hair affectionately, watching as she prances away, the balloon bobbing along behind her.

My gaze shifts back to Annalise, who’s now arranging plates and utensils with the same meticulous care she’s applied to every other aspect of the party. Her determination to make this day special for our girls is both endearing and admirable, and I can’t help but feel a swell of affection for her.

“Need any help?” I ask, moving to stand beside her.

“Only if you promise not to break anything,” she teases, gracing me with a playful smile that sends warmth spreading through my chest.

“Deal.”

The room buzzes with the anticipation of the party, but I can sense the mounting stress in Annalise as she oversees every detail. Her emerald eyes dart from one party decoration to another, ensuring everything is picture-perfect for our little girls. Despite the playful banter we shared earlier, I know how seriously she takes this responsibility.

“Annalise,” I say gently, resting a hand on her shoulder. “Everything looks amazing. The twins will love it.”

She smiles tightly, worry still etched in her delicate features. “I just want it to be perfect for them. They deserve the best.”

“Of course they do,” I agree, my heart swelling with pride for the woman who’s become such an integral part of our lives. “But remember, they’re still young. What matters most is that they feel loved and cherished.”

Damian, overhearing our conversation, chimes in with his usual blunt honesty. “Besides, they’re too young to remember any of this anyway.”

I shoot him a glare, but Annalise simply nods, taking a deep breath as she considers his words. “Maybe you’re right,” she says quietly. “But I also think there’s something important about creating these memories for ourselves—to remind us of the good times when things get tough.”

“Exactly,” I concur, squeezing her shoulder reassuringly. “And no matter what, we’ll always have each other.”

“Thanks, Cassius,” she murmurs, leaning into my touch for a brief moment before resuming her diligent efforts to make the party unforgettable. Together, we continue setting up, our movements synchronized in harmony as we share this labor of love for our family.

As I watch her work tirelessly, her face flushed with determination, I can’t help but marvel at her strength and resilience. This woman—this fierce, loving mother—has endured so much, yet she still manages to face each day with unyielding grace. My thoughts darken with the knowledge that danger still looms over our lives, but for now, we’re safe, and I’m determined to protect this moment of happiness for as long as I can.

“Alright, everyone,” Annalise announces, her voice filled with authority as she surveys the room one last time. “It’s almost time for the guests to arrive. Let’s make sure everything is perfect.”

As we put the finishing touches on the party, I send a silent vow into the air—a promise to do whatever it takes to keep our family safe and ensure that we have many more moments like these to share.

A hush falls over the room as Damian’s words hang in the air, sharp and cold like shards of ice. I watch Isabella’s face contort with anger, the fierce protectiveness she feels for her family evident in every line of her body.

“Damian,” she snaps, “don’t you dare ruin this moment for them. They deserve a perfect day.”

His gaze locks onto hers, the tension between them palpable. For a moment, I fear they might erupt into an argument right here, but then Damian’s expression softens ever so slightly. He sighs, running a hand through his jet-black hair.

“Alright, Bella,” he concedes, the nickname rolling off his tongue with a begrudging affection. “I didn’t mean to spoil their celebration.”

“Good,” Isabella replies curtly, her eyes still flashing with protective fire. “Now, if you don’t mind, we have a party to prepare.”

Damian studies her for a moment longer before nodding. “Fine. But I have work to do too.” His voice is laced with authority, reminding us all of the responsibilities that are constantly pressing down on him. “Just remember,” he adds, his piercing blue eyes flicking to meet mine, “we can’t let our guard down. Not even for a day.”

“Of course,” I murmur, my heart tightening at the reminder of the dangers lurking just beyond the walls of our safe haven. “We’ll be careful.”

“Good luck with the party,” he tells us, offering a brief nod before turning on his heel and striding from the room. As the door shuts behind him, I can’t help but feel a pang of envy—Damian has always been able to carry the weight of our world on his shoulders, his strength unwavering even in the darkest of times.

But today isn’t about darkness or danger. It’s about family, love, and the precious moments we’re able to steal away from our complicated lives. I turn my attention back to Isabella, who has already resumed her efforts to create a magical day for the twins.

“Alright,” I say, determination and love fueling my every movement. “Let’s give them a party they’ll never forget.”

As we work together in harmony, I can’t help but feel grateful for the family we’ve forged amidst chaos and violence. And as we prepare to celebrate the innocence and joy of two young lives, I know that we’ll do whatever it takes to protect this fragile happiness—no matter what the future may hold.

I laugh, my voice echoing in the spacious room as Annalise teasingly scolds me for not being present for the actual party. “You better be here for all of it, Cassius. No work allowed today.”

“Wouldn’t dream of missing it,” I assure her, a playful grin spreading across my face. The banter between us flows effortlessly, a dance we’ve perfected over time.

As I continue to blow up balloons, I can’t help but steal glances at Annalise while she fusses over the cake. Her wavy brown hair falls around her shoulders like a cascade of silk, and her emerald-green eyes flash with determination. She’s always been a force of nature, but there’s something different about her now—softer, yet somehow fiercer than ever.

My gaze drifts down to her growing stomach, and my heart skips a beat. The possibility that the unborn child could be biologically mine sends a shiver of uncertainty through me, mingling with anticipation. A part of me longs for it to be true, for the chance to raise a child in this unconventional family we’ve built.

But deep down, I know it doesn’t matter whose blood runs through the baby’s veins. We’re family, bound by love and loyalty rather than genetics. And that bond is stronger than any biological connection could ever be.

“Earth to Cassius!” Annalise calls out, snapping me from my reverie.

“Sorry, just got lost in thought,” I confess, offering her a sheepish smile. The truth is, I can’t stop thinking about this life we’re creating together, the future laid out before us like an unwritten story.

“Let’s focus on making the twins’ day magical, alright?” she suggests, her eyes shining with determination as she places the final touches on their spectacular cake.

“Of course,” I agree, my heart swelling with love and pride. The twins, Gina and Franny, are the embodiment of everything that is pure and innocent in our world—a reminder of what we’re fighting for.

“Alright, I think we’re ready,” Annalise announces, stepping back to admire her handiwork. And it truly is a sight to behold—the room transformed into a fairy tale kingdom, filled with laughter and light.

As guests begin to arrive and the party kicks off, I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment. We’ve created something beautiful amidst the darkness, a sanctuary where love and hope can flourish. And as I watch Annalise, radiant and strong, I know that we’ll face whatever the future holds together—as a family.

A sudden warmth envelops the room, and I can’t help but attribute it to Annalise’s presence. Her laughter fills the air like music, captivating everyone around her—including me. As I watch her from across the room, I feel an irresistible pull drawing me toward her.

“Hey,” I say softly, wrapping my arms around her waist from behind as she fusses with the cake. My fingers gently brush over her growing stomach, and I lean down to press a tender kiss on her cheek. “You did an amazing job planning this party.”

“Thanks, but remember, the goal is not to make your brothers jealous,” Annalise teases, laughing playfully as she glances back at me. Her emerald eyes sparkle with mischief, and I can’t help but smile in response.

“Jealous? Of us?” I feign innocence, my grip tightening protectively around her. “Never.”

“Keep telling yourself that, Cas,” she retorts, turning to face me with a grin. “But don’t be surprised when they start trying to upstage you.”

“Let them try,” I challenge, smirking confidently. “No one can compete with what we have.”

Annalise’s laughter rings through the room once more, lighting up the space as if someone flipped a switch. The lighthearted banter between us feels like a balm for my soul, a reminder of the connection we share despite the chaos that surrounds us.

“Alright, Mr. Confident, go mingle with our guests while I finish up here,” she instructs, giving me a playful shove. “Make sure they know who’s boss.”

“Of course,” I agree, reluctantly releasing her from my embrace. As I turn to walk away, I catch sight of my brothers watching us from the corner of their eyes, thinly veiled envy etched on their faces.

Remember, it’s not a competition , I remind myself, smirking inwardly. But as I make my way through the crowd, greeting old friends and new acquaintances alike, I can’t help but feel a sense of triumph.

For all the darkness that permeates our world, moments like these—filled with laughter, love, and hope—make every struggle worth it. And as I glance back at Annalise, radiant and strong amid the sea of guests, I know that we’ll face whatever comes our way together—as a family.

The sound of laughter and the smell of freshly baked cake fill the air, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Though our world is often filled with darkness, today is a rare moment of light—a celebration of life and family.

“Hey, lovebirds!” Isabella calls out, her voice cutting through our playful banter. “Our first guests have arrived. Time to put on your host faces.”

I nod, giving Annalise one last lingering look before I pull away. The anticipation of welcoming our friends and loved ones is palpable, but my focus remains on making sure everything goes smoothly for the twins’ party.

“Alright, let’s get these tiaras on our little princesses,” I announce, picking up the delicate crowns adorned with sparkling jewels. Their beauty is undeniable, yet they pale in comparison to the radiance that shines from within my nieces.

Gently, I place a tiara atop Gina’s head, watching as her eyes widen with awe. “There you go, princess,” I say softly, my heart swelling with pride. As I turn to Franny, she eagerly leans forward, her blue eyes shining like precious gems.

“Me too, Uncle Cassius?” she asks, her voice full of excitement and wonder.

“Of course,” I reply, gently placing the tiara on her head and adjusting it slightly so that it sits perfectly. “You’re both Volkov princesses, and today everyone will see just how special you are.”

Franny beams at me, her smile lighting up the room as she twirls around to show off her new accessory. It’s moments like these that remind me of what truly matters—the love and happiness we share as a family, even amidst the shadows that surround us.

As our guests begin to pour in, I take a deep breath, preparing myself for the whirlwind of the festivities. With every handshake, hug, and congratulatory remark, I’m reminded of the support and loyalty that exists within our circle. The stress and anxiety that once plagued me dissipate, replaced by a newfound determination to make this day unforgettable for my nieces.

As I glance over at Annalise, watching her graceful movements as she flits from one guest to another, I can’t help but feel a surge of gratitude for the love we share. Despite the uncertainty that lies ahead, I know that we’ll face whatever comes our way—as long as we have each other.

The sound of excited giggles fills the air as the twins, Franny and Gina, twirl around in their matching princess dresses. I can’t help but feel a sense of pride swelling within me, seeing the joy this celebration brings to them.

“Alright, my little Volkov princesses,” I say, smiling at them. “Today is your special day, and all the other little girls will notice just how royal you both are.”

“Really?” Gina asks, her eyes wide and shimmering with anticipation.

“Absolutely,” I assure her, kneeling down to their level. “You two are the most important people here today, and everyone’s here to celebrate you.”

Franny claps her hands together, clearly delighted by the idea. “We’re gonna have so much fun!” she exclaims, bouncing on her toes.

“Of course you will,” I say, ruffling her hair affectionately. The thrill of the party and the happiness radiating from the twins make it easy to forget the dark shadows that lurk just outside our circle. Today, we focus on the light and love that binds our family together.

“Promise you’ll dance with us later, Uncle Cassius?” Gina asks, her voice full of hope.

“Wouldn’t miss it for the world,” I promise, the warmth of their laughter spreading through me like wildfire. We’re determined to give these precious girls a day they’ll never forget.

“Come on, let’s go greet our guests,” I suggest, taking each of their small hands in mine. As we step into the bustling room, filled with friends and family, I know that no matter what challenges the future holds, we’ll face them head-on—together.