THE LITTLE PRINCESS AND HER DADA
"I am sorry," Lilith said to Giselle.
The little girl sat in front of her mother with a pout on her face. She looked at Lilith for a moment before deciding that she had had enough of her mama's apologies.
Giselle turned around and began crawling away.
Straight toward Nikolai.
The moment he saw his daughter crawling in his direction, Nikolai chuckled and bent down to lift her into his arms.
"Dada!" Giselle exclaimed happily.
Lilith gasped.
"Meanie!" she accused her daughter.
Giselle giggled at her mama, clearly pleased with herself.
Nikolai laughed as he settled the little girl against his chest.
"Look at you, sweetheart. You have already chosen your side," he teased.
Giselle blabbered happily, her tiny hands moving as she looked at her father.
Nikolai kissed her forehead.
"Turning twenty-one, baby. We have a big surprise for Mama," he whispered into Giselle's ears.
The little girl immediately clapped her hands.
Nikolai smiled.
"Shhhh! It's a secret."
Giselle giggled even louder.
He gently kissed her forehead again, then settled her comfortably in his arms.
The little girl rested against him, perfectly content with her position.
Lilith watched them with narrowed eyes.
Her husband and daughter were already conspiring against her, and her twenty-first birthday had not even arrived yet.
"Unbelievable," she muttered.
Nikolai only smiled.
After all, his Bambi was turning twenty-one, and he intended to make the occasion unforgettable.
GLORIA'S OFFICE — FLOWERS FROM THE PAST
Gloria was working in her office when the manager hurried inside.
"Boss is here," the manager announced. "He arrived last night. He looks even more terrifying in person."
Gloria raised her head.
"Already?"
"Yes, ma'am."
The manager left after delivering the message.
Gloria gathered her documents and entered her small private office.
However, the moment she stepped inside, she stopped.
A beautiful bouquet of flowers rested on her desk.
She approached it slowly.
The flowers were her favorites.
There was a small note attached to the bouquet, and the name written on it was the nickname only one person used for her.
Kiwi.
Gloria's fingers trembled as she picked up the flowers.
Nobody called her Kiwi.
Nobody except him.
She stared at the bouquet, her heart suddenly beating faster.
"V…?" she whispered.
For a moment, she could not move.
She brought the flowers closer, recognizing the familiar arrangement and the thought behind the gesture.
After all this time, he still remembered.
He remembered her favorite flowers.
He remembered the nickname he had given her.
And somehow, that simple bouquet had managed to bring back memories she had spent years trying to bury.
Gloria lowered her eyes to the flowers.
She did not know whether to smile or cry.
But one thing was certain.
The past had returned.
And it was waiting for her.
LILITH'S RESTAURANT — THE MAN IN THE WHITE SUIT
At Lilith's restaurant, the afternoon was busy.
Lilith was serving a group of elderly women who had come to enjoy their meal.
She smiled politely as she placed their dishes on the table, making sure everything was arranged properly.
"Please let me know if you need anything else," she said warmly.
The women thanked her.
Lilith returned to the kitchen to prepare for her next task.
Meanwhile, a man entered the restaurant.
He was dressed in a white suit.
He walked inside with the confidence of someone who believed the world belonged to him.
He selected a table and sat down.
It was the same man who had taken Lilith's photograph at the supermarket.
After discovering that she worked at the restaurant, he had begun following her movements.
He had gathered information about her employment and decided to visit the establishment himself.
His name was Don Maelvorn.
Half Russian and half American, he had a reputation for being persistent, dangerous, and accustomed to getting what he wanted.
He watched the restaurant staff moving around.
Then his gaze settled on Lilith.
He smiled.
He had finally found her.
THE UNDERWORLD'S CONTRACTS
Amelia approached Lilith in the kitchen, carrying a tray.
"Boss," she said quietly.
Lilith looked up.
"What is it?"
Amelia placed the tray down.
"The underworld is looking for you. They want deals and meetings. Some are offering contracts to kill your husband, while others are looking for ways to get to you."
Lilith continued arranging the items on the counter.
"Hm…"
Her expression remained calm.
She had expected such developments.
Her position, her husband's influence, and the power surrounding their family made them targets for people who wanted to gain something from their downfall.
"Some of them are attempting to approach us through business arrangements," Amelia continued. "Others are trying to establish connections with people close to you."
Lilith finally turned toward her.
"No rush, Boss," Amelia added.
Lilith nodded.
"Come. Let's go, Lily said."
She picked up the tray, and they stepped out together.
DON MAELVORN MEETS LILITH
Lilith approached the man's table.
"Here is your coffee, sir," she said politely.
The man looked up at her.
"Why, thank you, Princess."
Lilith froze.
She recognized his voice.
Her gaze moved to his face.
"You?"
Don Maelvorn smiled.
"Hello, Princess."
"Stop calling me that," Lilith said coldly.
"Why not? You're so precious that I can't help it."
Lilith placed the tray down.
"I suggest you enjoy your coffee and leave."
Don leaned back in his chair.
"You're quite direct."
"And you're quite irritating."
He laughed.
Lilith turned to walk away.
However, before she could take another step, Don grabbed her hand.
"Oi! Let go!" she snapped.
He held on.
"You're tiny. Of course, it—"
He never finished his sentence.
Lilith moved with startling speed.
She seized his hair and slammed his head against the table.
Before he could recover, she grabbed a fork and stabbed his finger.
"AHHH!" Don screamed.
Several people turned toward them.
"Boss!" Madison exclaimed.
Lilith stood over him, her expression turning frighteningly cold.
"I SAID I AM MARRIED! DON'T YOU GET IT?!" she shouted.
Her eyes began glowing.
Madison stared at her.
"Boss?" Selena whispered.
Lilith slowly turned toward the others.
Her eyes had become a dark, glowing red.
The atmosphere in the restaurant changed.
For a moment, nobody dared to move.
"Oh, no," Zorina whispered.
Nora immediately moved behind Lilith and restrained her while Catalina helped pin her down.
The people watching were horrified.
Lilith struggled against them, her body shaking with rage.
"Boss, please calm down!" Amelia pleaded.
But Lilith's eyes remained red.
The energy surrounding her felt different.
Stronger.
Darker.
As though something buried deep within her had finally begun to surface.
The office door closed.
Amelia immediately reached for her phone and called Nikolai.
She knew he had to come.
Whatever was happening to Lilith, it was no longer something they could handle alone.
THE QUEEN'S AWAKENING
Ten minutes later, Nikolai arrived with Nistarini.
The moment Nistarini entered the room and saw Lilith, she stopped.
Lilith's eyes were glowing red.
Nistarini gasped.
Then her own eyes began to glow.
She stared at Lilith, sensing the immense energy radiating from her.
"Her energy is getting stronger," Nistarini whispered.
Nikolai immediately approached his wife.
He knelt in front of her.
"Bambi?" he whispered.
Lilith's body trembled with rage.
Her eyes remained fixed on him.
Nikolai gently removed the cloth covering her mouth.
Lilith growled.
Then she bit his hand.
The others gasped.
Nikolai barely reacted.
He looked at her with so much love that even those watching could hardly understand how he remained so calm.
"Mrs. Lilith?" he called again.
Lilith continued breathing heavily.
Nikolai stayed close, refusing to leave her alone in the moment.
"Bambi, look at me, baby."
He spoke gently, keeping his voice low.
"Easy. You're safe."
Lilith's breathing gradually began to change.
She inhaled deeply.
Then she exhaled.
Again.
And again.
Slowly, the redness in her eyes began to fade.
Nistarini stepped closer and carefully examined her.
"She is awakening," she announced.
"Huh?" Genevra asked, confused.
Nistarini looked at the others.
"Her powers. What she is bound to is awakening inside her."
The room fell silent.
"The Queen has awakened. Her dark energy is taking over, revealing who she truly is," Nistarini explained.
Nikolai gently wiped Lilith's face.
She stared at him, breathing more calmly now.
"That's it, baby. Easy now," he whispered.
He kissed her forehead and pulled her closer.
Lilith remained in his arms, slowly recovering from the rage that had overtaken her.
Nikolai held her securely.
He did not care that she had bitten him.
He did not care about the people staring.
His only concern was his wife.
Whatever had awakened inside Lilith, he would face it beside her.
And if the world had begun to fear the woman she was becoming, then the world would have to learn something very important.
Lilith was not alone.
She had Nikolai.
And he would never abandon her.
FIVE DAYS AFTER THE INCIDENT
Five days had passed since the incident at the restaurant.
Nikolai was in his meeting room, reviewing several files.
Giselle was asleep against him.
He held her carefully, occasionally looking down at her little face.
Damian approached.
"Boss, may I take her?" he asked quietly.
Nikolai looked at his sleeping daughter.
After a moment, he nodded.
Damian carefully lifted Giselle from his arms, supporting her head and back.
He began patting her gently as he carried her away.
Nikolai returned to his documents.
Darya entered shortly afterward.
"Boss," she greeted, handing him a paper.
Nikolai accepted it and began reading.
The meeting continued, and work resumed.
Yet the incident involving Lilith remained somewhere in the back of his mind.
He had seen the power in her eyes.
He had felt the rage trembling through her body.
And he could not forget Nistarini's words.
The Queen had awakened.
BERLINA'S GREAT ESCAPE
Meanwhile, on the second floor, Berlina had just woken up from her nap.
Nolan's office was quiet.
Her miniature crib stood beside his desk, but the little girl had other plans.
She began crawling around the office.
Then she crawled toward the door.
And before anyone realized what she was doing, Berlina had escaped into the hallway.
Warren entered the floor a short while later.
"Ber?" he called.
He looked around.
There was no answer.
He checked the office.
Then he looked toward the hallway.
"Oh, shit!" he exclaimed.
A little white baby was crawling around the entire floor, giggling happily.
Warren finally spotted her.
"Berlina!"
She turned toward him.
The moment she saw him, she giggled and continued crawling.
Warren hurried toward her.
But Berlina had already reached the elevator.
She crawled inside.
"No, no, no, no, no!" Warren shouted.
He rushed forward.
Unfortunately, the elevator doors closed before he could reach them.
Warren stopped.
He stared at the closed doors.
Then he looked upward.
"I'm cooked," he muttered.
He immediately ran upstairs, desperate to find Nolan before the situation became even more complicated.
NOLAN FINDS HIS LITTLE ESCAPE ARTIST
The meetings had finally ended.
Nolan walked toward the elevator.
The doors opened.
He stepped inside.
Then he stopped.
Berlina was sitting there.
The little girl looked up at him.
Nolan stared at her.
"Boom Boom Baby?"
Berlina's face lit up.
She became excited the moment she saw him.
Nolan immediately picked her up.
"How did you get up here?" he asked.
Berlina responded by grabbing his hair.
Nolan winced.
"Boss!" Warren exclaimed as he hurried into the elevator.
Nolan turned toward him.
Berlina giggled again.
Nolan looked back at the little girl.
"D… D… D… Dada!" Berlina suddenly said.
Nolan froze.
He looked at her.
She tapped his face with her tiny hand.
"Boss?" Warren called cautiously.
Berlina opened her mouth again.
"Dada! Dada! Dada! Dada!"
Nolan's lips twitched.
For a moment, he looked as though he had forgotten how to respond.
Warren's eyes widened.
The little girl had just called Nolan Dada.
Nolan cleared his throat.
"All right, Boom Boom Baby. That's enough," he said, attempting to sound composed.
Berlina immediately hugged him.
Nolan looked down at her.
Then he gently hugged her back.
Warren watched the scene, struggling not to smile.
The mighty Nolan had been defeated by a baby who had escaped her crib, taken an elevator alone, and then called him Dada.
And Berlina appeared extremely pleased with herself.
BRANDON AND NINO — A DECISION ABOUT LOVE
Elsewhere, Brandon opened his bedroom door.
He found Nino sitting beside the window.
She turned toward him.
"Hey, love," he greeted.
Nino looked at him.
"Papa called," she said.
Brandon approached her and lifted her onto his lap.
"Tell me."
Nino slowly began unbuttoning his suit jacket.
Brandon watched her carefully.
"He told me he's coming tonight, and he wants me to meet his friend's son."
She paused.
"I told him I don't want to because I…"
Her voice faded.
Brandon gently rubbed her back.
"Because you what?" he asked.
Nino lowered her eyes.
"Because I want to marry you," she whispered.
Brandon went still.
"You told him?" he asked.
Nino nodded.
"He was angry, but I told him I wouldn't come home until he made a decision instead of letting other people decide my fate."
Brandon looked at her for a long moment.
He understood how difficult that conversation must have been.
Nino had finally spoken up for herself.
She had refused to allow someone else to decide whom she should marry.
Brandon wrapped his arms around her waist.
Nino settled against him, her legs resting around his waist as her hands moved gently across his chest.
"Nio," Brandon whispered, "I want to make you my bride."
Nino looked up at him.
Their eyes met.
Then they kissed.
Brandon pulled her closer, and she held on to him.
He eventually stood up with her still in his arms.
They continued kissing until he gently drew back.
"Tell me what you want," he whispered.
Nino shyly lowered her gaze.
Brandon lifted her chin.
"Tell me, Princess."
She swallowed.
"Make love to me, Brandy," she whispered.
Brandon studied her face.
"Sweet love?" he asked softly.
Nino nodded.
He kissed her forehead.
"How about you get ready, my love?"
She smiled and let go of his hand before entering the bathroom.
Brandon watched her disappear behind the door.
A gentle smile spread across his face.
Then he turned around and returned to his work.
A NIGHT PREPARED FOR TWO
Ten minutes later, Brandon was lighting candles.
The room was dark, illuminated by the soft glow of the candles.
The bed was decorated with roses.
The sheets were a deep, rich red.
He adjusted the final candle and stepped back to admire the arrangement.
Then the bathroom door opened.
Brandon turned.
And when he saw Nino, his heart melted.
She wore an ethereal pale pink babydoll nightgown.
The top featured intricate floral lace embroidery over the cups, with delicate ruffled mesh trim and tiny satin bows on the straps.
Thin adjustable straps rested over her shoulders.
Additional decorative lace detailing framed the area above the bust, giving the garment an elegant, delicate appearance.
The skirt was made of sheer, airy tulle that fell into a full, ruffled hem.
She had accessorized the outfit with a matching lace choker.
Her hair was tied into a neat bun.
The bedroom door was locked.
Brandon extended his hand toward her.
Nino accepted it.
Soft piano music played in the background.
He drew her closer, and they began to dance slowly.
Their eyes remained fixed on each other.
Neither spoke.
They simply moved together, allowing the music to fill the silence.
After a while, Nino stepped backward.
Brandon followed.
They continued until the back of her knees touched the edge of the bed.
She sat down gently.
The bed's canopy sheets descended, covering the entire bed and creating a private space around them.
Their voices blended with the soft piano music.
For the first time in years, they were together without the weight of separation standing between them.
They had endured distance.
They had endured uncertainty.
Now, they had the chance to choose one another again.
And that night belonged to them alone.
Brandy? Nino said as he kissed her feets licked her toes making her cheeks burning red as he took her underwear out let me make you feel good first she said as she sat his pants came down as he place his thumb inside her mouth Suck He ordered her tongue swirling as he moan.
Fuck, keep going like that baby he ordered as Nino sucking his cock Mhmm Shit! He moan breathy All in princess he encouraged she rubbed his balls while sucking him she felt proud of her self God am cumming! Brandon moaned as Nino tongue wrapped around his cock as she did a blow and handjob Combo his hot seeds spilled inside her mouth while a few drop ok her breast.
Are you sure about this? He asked Nino touch his his chest worried? She whispered your gonna be pain Princess Brandon said while rubbing her breasts gently it will be worth it she said as she laid down and spread her legs Oh fucking shit Brandon moan all yours Daddy brandy she said seductively He took his cock and slowly without breaking the eye contact She bit her lips stopping herself from screaming Shhhhh he whispered while placing his thumb inside her mouth.
Ouch....Ohhhhh Nino moaning she Brandon cock slamming her tight core wrap around his Huge cock slamming her while her bare breasts bouncing Fuck you feel so so good Princess he praise B…B….Brandy! Nino moan his name like a prayer F..Faster she pleased her whimpers became more louder like music to his ears he gladly picked up the speed Mhmm Ahhhhhh!! She moaned while gripping the sheets as he gave the final slam inside her tight core Ohhhh fuck Brandon moaned as he rolled his hips more slowly inside her.
THE FLOUR DISASTER
"Oh, my goodness! Luna!"
Lilith stood in the kitchen, staring at the disaster before her.
Lunessa was covered in flour.
Her sisters were playing with it, scattering it across the kitchen floor.
Flour covered the counters.
It covered the floor.
It had even found its way onto the little girls' clothes and hair.
Nikolai was away at work, attending to his mafia responsibilities.
Lilith took out her phone and snapped a picture of the chaos.
She sent it to him immediately.
Meanwhile, Hereena giggled as she scattered even more flour.
"No, no, no, no!" Lilith exclaimed.
She looked around the kitchen in disbelief.
Then she spotted a huge laundry basket.
She picked it up and began placing the little girls inside, one after another, making sure each child was handled safely.
Once she had gathered them all, she started cleaning them.
The girls continued giggling, completely delighted with their adventure.
Lilith shook her head.
"What am I going to do with all of you?"
Just then, Nistarini entered with the girls and the men, who were rolling several bags into the mansion.
She stopped at the kitchen entrance.
"What the hell happened here?" Shonil demanded.
Lilith pointed toward the kitchen.
"Luna spilled the flour everywhere!"
Debasmita looked at the children sitting in the laundry basket.
She smiled.
"Y'all are troubling your mummy, huh?"
Nyxara clapped her hands.
The girls seemed proud of their little adventure.
Nistarini and the others immediately began helping Lilith wash them.
Lilith cleaned her hands and looked toward the arriving group.
"We got something for you, but we couldn't give it to you when we came," Nistarini explained.
Lilith glanced at the many bags.
"I honestly have a lot of things. I really don't need more," she replied.
She continued giving the children their food.
The group began moving the luxurious boxes inside.
Azenari and Rhea crawled toward their mother.
"Mama!" Rhea called.
Lilith immediately picked her up.
She lifted Azenari too, holding both girls close.
Afterward, she changed their diapers while the others arranged the boxes.
The mansion was becoming crowded with gifts, luggage, children, and family members.
But Lilith did not mind.
This was her home.
And the people filling it were part of the life she had built.
THE APEX MONSTROSITY — A MESSAGE FROM BAMBI
SNAP!
The Apex Monstrosity's hands were bleeding.
The Dominant Dragon stood nearby, watching him.
"Boss, calm down," he warned.
But the man was boiling with anger.
He gripped his knife and turned toward Don Maelvorn.
Without hesitation, he stabbed the Don's tongue.
The men around them looked away.
Don cried out in pain.
The Apex Monstrosity's expression remained terrifyingly calm.
His phone suddenly chimed.
He glanced at the screen.
"Check it," he ordered.
The message was from Bambi.
He opened it.
Lilith had sent him a picture of the little troublemakers.
The message read:
Look at what your little troublemakers did to the whole kitchen.
He stared at the photograph.
His daughters were sitting inside a laundry basket, covered in flour.
For a moment, he said nothing.
Then he chuckled.
The tension in his expression eased slightly.
He looked at the picture again.
His babies.
His beautiful, mischievous little girls.
Meanwhile, Don continued trembling.
The Apex Monstrosity returned his attention to the man and finished the punishment he had begun, cutting out the Don's tongue.
His assistant approached to help him wash his hands.
Blood flowed away as the assistant carefully cleaned them.
The Apex Monstrosity remained silent.
Once his hands were clean, he took out his phone again.
He looked at Lilith's photograph.
Then he made it his wallpaper.
The Dominant Dragon watched him.
"Got the gold, Boss," the Poison Apex reported.
The men prepared to leave.
They mounted their bikes and drove off.
Even in the middle of the underworld's brutality, a photograph of his family could still change the Apex Monstrosity's expression.
His Bambi had sent him a picture.
And that was enough to make him smile.
THE VENOMOUS BEAST — A LIBRARY BUILT FOR KIWI
Meanwhile, the Venomous Beast sat inside his hidden penthouse.
He was in the library he had built for his Kiwi.
The room was carefully maintained.
Every shelf was clean.
Every surface had been polished.
He had made sure that everything remained exactly as he wanted it.
The library was not merely a room filled with books.
It was a gift.
A space created for the woman whose memory had followed him for years.
His assistant entered.
"Boss, the company is ready. We have informed everyone about the movement."
The Venomous Beast looked toward him.
"We got the deal from the ND company because of her," the assistant continued. "She gave an excellent proposal and presentation. All the documents were clear."
He paused before delivering the next piece of information.
"We now have ₽4 trillion."
The Venomous Beast smiled.
He looked up at Kiwi's picture in the library.
For a moment, his attention remained fixed on her face.
"Is the gift ready for Mrs. ND?" he asked.
"Yes, Boss."
"And the bags are packed too," the assistant added.
"Good," the Venomous Beast replied.
He took out a cigarette, lit it, and slowly exhaled.
Smoke drifted through the room.
He looked toward the picture again.
Kiwi.
After everything that had happened, he was finally moving closer to her world.
He had secured the business deal.
He had arranged the gifts.
He had prepared for his return.
Now, he wanted to see her.
And this time, he intended to be ready for whatever happened when they met again.
JULY 9 — THE BIRTHDAY PLANS
The school semester was scheduled to begin on July 18.
It was July 9, and Nikolai had already begun preparing a list of things for his tiny wife's twenty-first birthday.
He sat at his desk, writing down ideas and making arrangements.
Rhea sat nearby, watching him.
The little girl cooed.
Nikolai looked up.
"Yes, Princess?"
Rhea placed both hands on the floor and lifted her body.
Nikolai stopped writing.
His eyes widened.
She was trying to stand.
"Damian!" he called immediately.
Damian hurried over.
"Boss?"
"Record this."
Damian took out his phone and began recording.
Rhea's little body remained upright.
She wobbled.
Her tiny legs trembled as she tried to maintain her balance.
Nikolai crouched in front of her.
"Good job, baby! Now come to Dada."
Rhea stared at him.
Then she slowly moved one foot forward.
Her little legs were unsteady.
She wobbled again.
Nikolai held his breath.
Rhea took another step.
Then another.
She was walking.
Her first steps.
The little girl moved toward her father, determined to reach him.
Nikolai's expression softened completely.
"Come on, Princess. You can do it!"
Rhea reached for him.
He immediately scooped her into his arms.
"There we go! Great job, my angel!"
He clapped enthusiastically.
"Yayyy!"
Rhea clapped too.
She stood happily in his arms, giggling as her father showered her with kisses.
Damian continued recording.
Nikolai looked at his daughter with pride.
He had witnessed another milestone.
Another first.
And he wanted to remember every second of it.
FOUR HOURS LATER — MAMA IS HOME
Four hours later, Lilith returned home carrying shopping bags.
"I'm home, Nikki!" she called.
She stepped inside, expecting to find her husband working or spending time with the girls.
Then she saw Rhea standing.
Nikolai was preparing her bottle.
He looked toward Lilith.
"Look, Mama's home!" he told Rhea.
The moment the little girl saw her mother, her face brightened.
"M… M… Mama!"
She began waddling toward Lilith.
Lilith froze.
Her shopping bags nearly slipped from her hands.
"Oh, my baby is walking!" she exclaimed.
Rhea continued moving forward with her tiny, unsteady steps.
Finally, she reached Lilith and hugged her leg.
Lilith immediately bent down and lifted her.
"Awwww! Hello, my sweet, sweet Nani!"
Rhea giggled and clapped her hands.
"I love you so very, very much, baby," Lilith whispered.
She kissed both of Rhea's cheeks.
Rhea giggled louder and hugged her mother.
"Baby cakes," Lilith murmured, holding her closer.
The little girl nestled against her mama.
Lilith looked at Nikolai.
He smiled proudly.
Their daughter had taken her first steps.
And she had chosen to walk toward her mother the moment she returned home.
Lilith kissed Rhea again.
For a moment, she forgot about her shopping bags, her work, and everything else waiting for her.
All that mattered was the little girl in her arms.
GLORIA AND HER BROTHERS — THE VENOMOUS BEAST'S BUSINESS DEAL
Gloria arrived home to find her brothers discussing something serious.
She looked from one face to another.
"What's wrong?" she asked.
Zale turned toward her.
"Well, we have a partnership and a deal with your company. The CEO is in Russia, and he's looking for a place to stay."
Gloria listened carefully.
"In order to build a strong relationship with him, he's coming here. He also knows your friend."
Gloria's eyebrows rose.
"Really?"
"Yeah," Rodion answered.
Zale continued explaining.
"We arranged a room for him. I heard he burned two hundred companies to the ground."
Gloria stared at him.
"He is called the Venomous Beast. He's extremely dangerous too."
She remained silent.
Zale's expression became more serious.
"If this partnership goes well, the family company will become extremely successful. But if we make a mistake, we could go completely bankrupt and lose everything."
Gloria felt a little frightened.
The Venomous Beast was not an ordinary businessman.
His reputation preceded him.
The thought of meeting someone with such influence made her nervous.
"Don't worry. We'll sort it out and handle everything," Jerome reassured her.
Gloria looked at her brothers.
They were trying to calm her down, but the situation was clearly more complicated than a normal business arrangement.
She looked away, thinking about the flowers waiting in her office.
The nickname on the note.
The person who had sent them.
And the man who was coming to Russia.
Kiwi.
The Venomous Beast.
A business deal.
A reunion she had never expected.
Everything seemed to be coming together at once.
FOUR DAYS LATER — THE GROUP PROJECT
Four days later, Lilith's project group was preparing for their presentation.
The students had decided to visit one another's houses to work on the project in greater detail.
That day, they were at Diana's house.
Diana's mother, Ms. Bella, brought them drinks.
"Here you go, everyone," she said kindly.
The students thanked her.
Diana had lost her father when she was five years old.
Since then, her mother had often left her alone at home, depositing money into her account but rarely being present for her emotionally.
Now, Ms. Bella was trying to make up for the years she had missed.
She wanted to spend more time with her daughter.
She wanted to be there for her.
But repairing a relationship required more than providing money.
It required presence.
It required patience.
And it required learning to understand the person Diana had become.
Meanwhile, Lilith's phone rang.
She picked it up.
"Yeah?" she answered.
Nikolai spoke from the other end.
"Hmmm. Are you ready for that, Nikki?" Lilith asked.
He replied.
She listened carefully before answering.
"All right. But don't cry after I warn you."
Nikolai said something else.
Lilith smiled.
"I love you too."
The call ended.
She placed her phone down and returned to the project.
The group was working on the eighth part of their presentation.
"So, guys, we're heading to the eighth part, and that is pre-crisis management during deals," Brown explained.
Lilith began writing notes as Brown continued.
The group discussed the topic, shared ideas, and reviewed their material.
They were determined to finish the project properly.
After another ten minutes, Diana looked toward Lilith.
"Lilith, your place next."
Lilith nodded.
She typed something on her phone.
"Hm-hm-hm," she murmured before standing up and walking outside.
Nikolai's car pulled up.
Lilith approached him.
They kissed.
"How was it?" he asked.
"Great. My place next week," she replied.
Nikolai smiled at his baby girl.
He had been looking forward to seeing her.
And with her birthday approaching, he was already preparing something special.
JULY 15 — MIDNIGHT GIGGLES
July 15 arrived.
By midnight, giggles filled the hallway.
The babies were crawling around.
Rhea was walking, while Mila held her hand and helped her move.
The little girls made their way toward their parents' bedroom.
Nikolai opened the door.
The moment the girls saw Lilith, they climbed onto the bed.
"Mama! Mama! Mama! Mama!" Hereena babbled excitedly.
Rhea reached up and tapped Lilith's face.
Lilith opened her eyes.
"Yeah, yeah. Hungry, my berries?" she asked sleepily.
The clock chimed.
It was midnight.
The date had changed.
July 16.
Lilith's twenty-first birthday had arrived.
JULY 16 — HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BAMBI
"Happy birthday, Bambi," Nikolai whispered.
Lilith blinked sleepily.
Before she could respond, Mila joined in.
"Happy birthday, Mama!"
Another little voice followed.
"Happy birthday, pretty Mama!"
Lilith smiled.
She pushed herself up against her pillows.
Then she looked around.
All eight girls were there.
Each one was part of the little surprise waiting for her.
They were holding a birthday cake.
Mila stood proudly in front of them.
"Make a biggggg wish!" she announced.
Lilith closed her eyes.
For a moment, she forgot about the cake and the people waiting for her to blow out the candles.
She thought about her family.
She thought about her husband.
She thought about the children who had changed her life in ways she could never have imagined.
And she thought about the responsibilities that awaited her.
Silently, she made her wish.
I wish for my babies to grow up healthy.
I wish for my husband and me to stay together forever.
And I pray that Allah blesses me with the strength to rule, to protect my people, and to become the strongest person I am meant to be.
She opened her eyes and blew out the candles.
Everyone cheered.
Nikolai smiled at her.
Lilith took a piece of cake and fed him first.
Then she fed Mila.
The babies eagerly reached for the cake.
Soon, each little girl had icing on her nose.
Lilith laughed.
Nikolai took a piece of cake and fed his wife.
She happily wiggled her body, smiling at him.
Nikolai blushed.
"Bambi," he murmured.
She giggled.
The room filled with laughter.
For a little while, the Queen of Nocturne was simply a twenty-one-year-old woman celebrating her birthday with the people she loved.
THE NOCTURNE MATRIARCH'S BIRTHDAY GREETING
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BOSS!"
The loud greeting came from the doorway.
Nistarini walked into the room.
She smiled at Lilith.
"Shubho Jonmodin, Beneva!"
Lilith looked up at her.
"Thank you, guys," she said warmly.
She was holding Mila in her arms while the others gathered around her.
Nistarini approached and congratulated her again.
The birthday celebration continued.
But Nikolai had already begun preparing something much bigger.
While Lilith enjoyed her time with the girls, he was arranging a special surprise.
The others helped by distracting their mother and keeping her occupied.
Nikolai wanted his Bambi to remember her twenty-first birthday for the rest of her life.
And he intended to make certain that she did.
THE OBSIDIAN CIRCLE RETURNS
Meanwhile, several cars were moving along the road toward Lilith's estate.
The vehicles approached the gate.
Once they arrived, the guards allowed them inside.
The cars drove through the estate and eventually parked outside the mansion.
Gloria was carrying Lunessa.
The little girl wore a beautiful outfit, and Gloria looked down at her with affection.
"Look at you! Aren't you the prettiest girl? The most beautiful girl!" Gloria exclaimed.
She lifted Lunessa into the air.
The little girl giggled happily.
Gloria laughed and caught her securely before kissing her cheek.
She was enjoying every moment with the baby.
The cars parked, and the group began getting out.
They entered Lilith's mansion together.
Gloria continued holding Lunessa, who was delighted by all the attention.
"Very pretty!" Gloria exclaimed again, making the little girl giggle even louder.
The Venomous Beast walked behind the others.
His eyes landed on Gloria.
She was also carrying Hereena.
For a moment, he simply watched her holding the two little girls.
Gloria looked down at them.
"Oh, I'm sorry, Princess. You're also very beautiful, aren't you?" she said affectionately.
She kissed the babies' cheeks.
The Venomous Beast's heart ached.
For two years, he had longed to see her smile again.
Two years of distance.
Two years of memories.
Two years of wondering whether he would ever stand in the same room with her again.
And now, she was right in front of him.
But she did not know he was watching her.
Or perhaps she knew and simply chose not to acknowledge him.
Either way, he remained silent.
LILITH MEETS THE OBSIDIAN CIRCLE AGAIN
Footsteps sounded on the staircase.
Lilith came downstairs.
She looked toward the group standing in her mansion.
"Oh, hi! Who are you all looking for?" she asked.
Gloria turned toward her.
Then she smiled.
"Happy birthday, Lily!"
The others immediately joined in.
"Happy birthday!"
Lilith stared at them.
For a moment, she did not seem to understand what she was seeing.
Then she looked more closely.
Her eyes widened.
"YOU GUYS ARE BACK?!" she exclaimed.
The group burst into laughter.
It was the Obsidian Circle.
Her people.
Her friends.
The ones she had missed so much.
They hurried toward her.
"Happy birthday!" they repeated.
Lilith's face lit up.
She opened her arms and embraced them.
"We missed you sooooo much!" they exclaimed.
Lilith hugged them tightly.
She had not expected this reunion.
Not today.
Not on her birthday.
But seeing them standing there filled her with happiness.
The Obsidian Circle had returned.
And for a moment, nothing else mattered.
THE VENOMOUS BEAST AND HIS KIWI
While everyone surrounded Lilith, the Venomous Beast slowly lifted his gaze.
He finally saw her.
There she was.
Lilith.
Beautiful.
Confident.
Surrounded by people who loved her.
His eyes moved over her face, taking in every detail.
For a moment, he could not look away.
Then he noticed Gloria.
She was still holding both girls.
His heart tightened.
"V…?" Gloria whispered.
The Venomous Beast looked up.
Their eyes met.
For a brief moment, the room seemed to grow quieter around them.
Gloria stared at him.
He looked at her from head to toe before turning his gaze away.
He did not say a word.
Gloria did not approach him.
She did not spare him another glance.
Instead, she turned and walked away with the girls in her arms.
The Venomous Beast watched her leave.
His expression remained unreadable.
He had returned to her world.
He had come to Russia.
He had secured the business deal.
He had prepared the gifts.
He had built a library for her.
He had remembered her favorite flowers.
But none of those things could guarantee that she would welcome him back into her life.
Gloria had seen him.
She knew he was there.
And she had chosen to walk away.
For a man who could command companies, frighten the underworld, and destroy anyone who threatened his interests, there was one thing he could not force.
He could not force Kiwi to look at him.
He could not force her to forgive him.
And he could not force her to love him again.
The Venomous Beast stood quietly as the Obsidian Circle celebrated Lilith's birthday.
He had returned after two years.
But the woman he had come to see was already walking away from him.