Dangerous Husbands, Broken Wives [18+]

ONE: NEW ADVENTURE

"Loyalty is everything in this business, Ana," Ivan growled, his voice low and dangerous. "And if you're not loyal, you know what happens."

Anastasia's eyes widened as she heard the threat in his words. She knew all too well the consequences of betraying Ivan and his criminal organization. "I've been loyal, Ivan," she pleaded, her heart pounding in her chest. "I swear it."

Ivan's expression remained hard as he advanced towards her, his hand reaching out to grip her arm with bruising force. "Don't lie to me, Ana," he snarled, his breath hot against her face. "You know what will happen if I find out you're hiding something from me."

[ANASTASIA]

I wake up to the blaring sound of my alarm, a sudden jolt that sends my heart racing. The stillness of my small, dimly lit bedroom is shattered by the noise, and I can't help but feel a surge of anxiety coursing through my veins. My eyes dart around the room, scanning the shadows for any signs of danger. Even after five long years of hiding, I still can't shake the constant fear that my cruel husband will somehow find us.

I take a deep breath and try to calm myself, but the memories flood back, vivid and painful. I can almost feel his cold, cruel eyes on me, his rough hands on my body. If he finds us again, I know he will stop at nothing to destroy me, to break me down until there is nothing left.

That is why I am always on the move, never staying in one place for more than three months at a time. It is also why I have to homeschool my kids, keeping them close and safe from the outside world.

With cautious steps, I tiptoe into the room where my children are fast asleep. The wooden floorboards creak slightly as I move closer to their beds, and I hold my breath, not wanting to wake them up.

Ivan Jr. is almost seven years old now, and his long limbs are sprawled out over the bed. Tatiana, my little girl, is tucked in close to her brother, her tiny hand clutching his shirt. I can't help but smile at the sight of them, so peaceful and innocent.

As I watch them sleep, a rush of emotions wash over me.

Ivan Jr. and Tatiana are my everything, my reason for living. They have never once complained about the constant moving and the uncertainty that comes with our life on the run. They are content with whatever little we have, and that makes me feel both grateful and guilty.

Tatiana is always a bundle of energy, even in her sleep. I can almost feel her little body twitching with excitement. Ivan Jr., on the other hand, is the picture of serenity, his face relaxed and peaceful. He always has a book in his hand, even when he sleeps, and he often tells Tatiana to do the same. They are the perfect balance to each other, and I feel a surge of pride and love for them both.

The soft glow of the bedside lamp casts a warm, golden hue on their faces, highlighting their innocent features. The room is filled with the quiet hum of the fan, the only sound breaking the stillness of the night.