Chapter 13

Chapter 13

Abby

Maks’s words echo in my head, and I can’t shake off the fear of what might happen to my babies and sister’s family if I don’t do as he says. Anger and terror boil within me, but I tamp down on them, trying to focus on what needs to be done.

With trembling fingers, I dial Maggie’s number. I take a deep breath, forcing myself to sound calm and collected when she picks up.

“Abby? What’s wrong?” Maggie’s voice is laced with concern, and I hate that I have to involve her in this mess.

“Listen, Maggie, I need you to do something for me. Don’t ask any questions, just trust me, okay?” I plead, my voice shaking slightly.

“Okay, what’s going on?” she asks, her tone shifting to seriousness.

“Bring my kids to this address,” I say, glancing at Maks, who nods his approval, and then I recite the address of the safehouse. “Please, Maggie, no police. I’ll explain everything when you get here.”

“Abby, are you in trouble? What’s happening?” Her voice is frantic now, and I wish I could reassure her.

“I’ll explain when you get here,” I repeat, instead of giving her an answer. “Bring your kids too, bring enough clothes and nappies and whatever you think you’ll need for… for a week-long holiday. Think of it like a holiday.”

“Abby, you’re scaring me,” she practically whispers, and I bite my lip.

“I promise everything will be okay. Just… Hurry.”

“Okay,” she says hesitantly. “We’ll be there as soon as we can. Stay safe.”

“Thank you.” I end the call and look at Maks, my eyes filled with unspoken rage. “You better keep your end of the bargain,” I warn him.

Later, as her silver Mercedes pulls up to the curb, the knot in my stomach tightens. Maggie steps out first in jeans and a pair of sneakers—good for running, I note with approval—and she surveys the scene, clearly worried and nervous. Two large men follow closely behind her, their eyes scanning the area for any sign of danger. Behind them are three nannies, our six babies—my quadruplets and Maggie’s twins—nestled safely in their arms.

“Abby, thank God you’re okay,” Maggie calls when she sees me come out to her, her voice trembling with anxiety. She knows how much is riding on this moment.

Maksim steps cautiously towards the group and looks from person to person, his eyes locking onto each precious bundle in turn. Everyone is completely silent as we all watch him, waiting for his reaction. As the nannies approach him, Maks hesitates for just a moment before extending his arms to receive the babies.

“Let me hold them,” he commands softly, his voice devoid of its usual harsh edge. “Just one at a time, though.”

The sight of Maks holding the tiny infants is almost surreal. He gently cradles them, one after another. His large hands supporting their small, fragile heads while his fingers barely graze their soft skin. It’s as if he’s afraid that any sudden movement might break them.

“Hello, little ones,” Maks whispers with a tenderness that makes my heart melt. He leans down to press a kiss to each baby’s forehead. “I’m your papa.”

I can’t help but feel a flicker of surprise and tenderness at the sight before me. The man who commands fear and respect from countless mobsters all over the city is now completely captivated by four tiny, helpless beings. As he gazes down at them, his icy exterior seems to melt away, revealing a vulnerability I never thought possible.