✈︎

EMILIANO

The moment I stepped into my house, the bone-chilling Russian air was replaced by the comforting warmth of the fireplace. The scent of my wife's mouthwatering meal greeted me, letting me know I was in for a very nice dinner, and perhaps an even better dessert later.

The soft laughter of my two children and my wife reached my ears, the sound so soul-wrenchingly beautiful that I had to place a hand on my heart to make sure the organ didn't beat out of my chest. Ten years, and still, this once-undead organ thrived to life whenever I heard the joyful sounds of my family. My home.

I don't necessarily believe in past lives, but if I had one before this, I must have been a saint. Then again, no amount of virtuous deeds could've prepared me for this. This solidarity. And just to spend another life with Rosabelle Nikolayeva, I would gladly become a good man.

I looked up to find my wife hurrying down the stairs, her eyes locked onto mine, a dazzling smile lighting up her face. As soon as she was close enough, I captured her lips with mine, savoring her taste on my tongue, while my arms worked their way around her body, holding her tightly.

She gasped but pulled me closer, recognizing the necessity of this moment. With two little devils running wild in the house, quality time with my wife had become more and more scarce day by day. And I didn't mind stealing a moment just for us, at least, until. . .

"Papa!"

Of course.

Rosabelle immediately pulled away from my embrace, and despite my displeased grunt, I let her. She's always been as shy as a wallflower when it comes to kissing her husband in front of the kids.

Leviathan and Sergei bounded down the stairs two at a time, probably competing to see who could reach me first. "Careful, malyshi," my wife said, stepping aside to make room for them. The moment they reached me, I scooped both of them up in my arms, their dissatisfied groans making me laugh. Rosabelle chuckled too as Sergei tried to push Levi out of my grip, with Levi doing the same a moment later.

"Eto nespravedlivo, papa!" Sergei whined as I kissed both their foreheads before letting them down. "So, little ones, did you listen to your mama today?"

Their eyes widened as they exchanged glances, and from the corner of my eye, I saw my wife smiling that beautiful smile of hers. I pulled her closer beside me, eager to feel her warmth as Levi replied, "We were good. But Sergei tried drawing hearts with mama's red lipstick. Of course, I stopped him."

His proud posture earned him a slap from his little brother. "Hey! You were the one who stole it!"

"Oh God, you kids really ruined my lipstick?" my wife exclaimed, though there was an amused glint in her eyes.

"No, mamma, non è successo niente con il tuo rossetto," Levi said, turning his glare from Sergei to his mom.

Pride swelled in my chest hearing the Italian rolling off his tongue so smoothly, as if the language were second nature to him. While Sergei was more physically agile than Levi, despite being smaller in frame, Levi was the intellectually gifted one. And I don't care if it makes me a boasting father, my son was a lot quicker-witted than most kids his age.

His blonde locks caught the glimmer of the chandelier, and his blue eyes dilated when Rosabelle ruffled his hair. Levi had completely took after his mother in looks, while Sergei had inherited my hair and his mother's eyes. It was a good thing, actually. We already had enough emerald-green eyes in our family. My brother had five kids, and not a single one inherited their mother's genes, which Genevieve found amusing. She loved that her children looked like Aleksandr, but he still longed for a child who'd resemble his dear wife.

"You've gotten good with your lessons, Levi. How's that?" Rosabelle asked, feigning surprise. Levi's smile grew. "Practice makes it better." Then her gaze shifted to Sergei. "And what about you, little dove?"

The little dove had his eyes fixed elsewhere, pretending he hadn't heard his mom, which was how Rosabelle knew he wasn't practicing at all. Her eyes widened as she prepared to scold him, but Levi interrupted by changing the subject. "When do we leave, Papa?"

I nearly smirked at his attempt to save his little brother.

Smart boy.

I wouldn't tell a soul, I loved Sergei very much, though I loved Levi a bit more. Not because he seems inclined to follow in my footsteps, but because he resembles his mother so much. While Sergei, our little dove, who'd inherited much of my behavior, was more dedicated to protecting his mom at all costs. And deep down, I knew he was his mama's favorite because he reminded her of me.

"Right after dinner, son." I replied.

"Where are we going?" Sergei inquired, confusion etched on his face.

I smiled and glanced at my wife, who looked just as puzzled. My breath caught in my throat, and all thoughts ceased for a second as our eyes met. Still, after all these years, I was more mesmerized than ever when I looked at the woman. "I think I have the same question, Emi," she said.

I shot her a wink and then turned to Levi. "It's a little secret, right, son?"

"Yes!"

✈︎

The trip to Switzerland had been a brilliant plan. One I made with my elder son to surprise both my wife and younger son.

Our anniversary and Sergei's birthday fell on the same day.

It all happened on our fourth anniversary. After marrying Rosabelle, she completed her college degree and finally started her career as an elementary school teacher. Levi came along the way, and then she settled into life as a housewife because she hadn't just wanted her child growing up in a daycare.

Our lives were going well, but I soon realized my pretty Bella wasn't cut out to be just a housewife. Sure, she looked irresistible with the way our life was going, with us making breakfast and dinner together, but she wasn't one to be tied down. She was adventurous. She loved to fly.

So on our fourth anniversary, I bought her a private jet, and she, my beautiful wife, made me her first home-cooked meal. She'd learned to cook just for me. If I had been a man of lesser stamina, I'd have died of happiness that day.

The next gift I gave her was a trip to Switzerland. We stayed there longer than on any of our other world tours over the years. On our next anniversary, Sergei blessed our home.

Since then, I was content. Not that I never wanted more kids, especially a girl. Seeing my brother show off his four daughters, to say I envied him would be an understatement. But we traveled a lot, so thinking it might exhaust my wife, we opted for birth control.

Though I wouldn't deny the chance of having more children in the future. We had plenty of time ahead, after all.

"What are you planning, love?" My wife's voice drew me back to the present as she wrapped her arms around my torso, leaning her head against my chest and looking up at me with those delicate eyes.

I smiled. "Give the old man some credit, will you, darlin'? I have a surprise for my family, so trying to pry it out of me is unfair."

She rolled her eyes, feigning irritation at my 'old man' remark. But we both knew Rosabelle loved my slightly graying hairs as much as she loved my heart.

"All pretentious old in your forties, and you still haven't lost that nice way of making me see stars every night."

"Damn right, belle, and I don't plan on stopping anytime soon."

"Oh, don't I know it?" With that, she straddled my lap, fitting her frame right against my groin as my arousal stirred to life.

Our kids were asleep in the bedroom at the corner of the jet, and after playing for four hours straight, I doubted they'd wake up soon to interrupt our happy hour.

So with one pull on my nape, my lips were back on my wife's, and she let me forget about the world for the rest of our flight.

✈︎

ROSABELLE

The jet landed at Zürich Airport at dawn, the sun peeking through a reddish-blue sky. The air was slightly humid, though comfortable. Both Levi and Sergei were wide awake. But their eyes were heavy with sleep.

I'd make sure to feed them something before letting them crash again once we reached the resort. The lounge tour for them could wait until later. But given their enthusiasm and the hundred questions they were bombarding my husband with, I doubted they'd sleep at all.

It was in their nature to fall in love with travelling. Just like me.

Levi had his hand tucked into Emi's fingers while Sergei walked by my side. My husband's arm was wrapped around my waist, and he shot me a reassuring smile.

As soon as the SUV came into view, the kids ran ahead and climbed inside. We followed right after, with our driver trailing behind.

Our original destination was Geneva, which I found out much later after a lot of persuasion, and then earning two orgasms from my dear husband. The hours passed with the kids quarreling and then drifting off to sleep again.

"Tired?" Emi pressed a soft kiss to my forehead as I leaned against his shoulder.

"Pretty much, but I wouldn't greet slumber before we reach home and take a small tour around."

"Small tour, huh?" he chuckled, pulling me closer. "We're settling closer to the Allondon River. The bungalow we've rented is right across from it, with a forest behind our resort. You'll get every bit of solitude, darlin'."

That's right, after resuming my job as an elementary school teacher few years back then, I hadn't had a lot of quiet moments anywhere, especially with two spontaneous kids running around and keeping the mansion lively.

Yes, we've taken a lot of trips, but it was all for the thrill of it. Maybe this is the first time we'll get to spend some time in monotony.

"Make sure you don't get a single call unless there's a mafia war happening in Russia, husband."

He smirked, "I'll make sure my brother takes care of it as well, belle. No disturbance, even in a world war, alright?"

I couldn't help but laugh at his response but nodded anyway.

I settled back, closing my eyes and letting my head rest on Emi's shoulder for a little while until we reached Geneva.

✈︎

The laughter and screams of the children grew louder as we made our way into the bungalow, their happiness dancing in the air.

Nestled in the heart of Geneva, Switzerland, the bungalow is a hidden gem perched right across the serene Allondon River. Geneva, known for its stunning landscapes and tranquil atmosphere, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cosmopolitan charm. The Allondon River, with its crystal-clear waters, meanders through the lush countryside, reflecting the vibrant greens of the surrounding vegetation. The gentle murmur of the river creates a soothing backdrop, perfect for a peaceful retreat.

As we approach the bungalow, the first thing we notice is the dense forest that envelopes the area, offering a secluded and private sanctuary. The air is crisp and fresh, filled with the earthy scent of pine and the sweet fragrance of wildflowers. The forest, with its towering trees and dense undergrowth, provides a natural barrier, ensuring that the only sounds we'll hear are the rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds.

The bungalow itself is a masterpiece of opulence and comfort. Built with a blend of traditional Swiss architecture and modern luxury, it boasts large windows that offer breathtaking views of the river and the forest. The exterior is crafted from natural stone and wood, blending seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Inside, the bungalow is adorned with elegant furnishings, plush fabrics, and warm lighting that creates an inviting and cozy ambiance.

Each room is spacious and filled with natural light, designed to maximize the stunning views outside. The living area features a grand fireplace, perfect for warming up on a little chilly evenings, while the bedrooms offer soft, luxurious bedding that ensures a restful night's sleep. The kitchen is fully equipped with state-of-the-art appliances, making it easy to prepare meals that can be enjoyed on the large terrace overlooking the river.

Whether one's seeking solitude or simply a place to unwind, this bungalow in Geneva offers the perfect escape, combining the beauty of nature with the comforts of home.

After a long tour, we finally had our breakfast in the morning. After enduring the chilly hours in Russia, the weather here was incredibly refreshing. I took a deep breath, inhaling the crisp air that smelled of dew, trees, and fresh wood.

God, it was so nice here.

I could stay here forever. But I knew it wasn't home. Home was somewhere else. Yet, anywhere I stay with the man I vowed to love would be considered home, no?

Levi and Sergei played with their dad for a long time before the temporary housekeeper arrived to take the kids inside for a bath. I noticed Emi hurrying toward me and sent him a smile. I missed lying on the grass, basking under the sun.

Instead of taking his place beside me, my husband hovered above, blocking the sun from my view as he looked down at me with an intensity that made my heart flutter. "The nose pin looks cute on you, darlin'," he complimented easily.

Despite his casual tone, I couldn't help but blush up to my hairline. He chuckled at my reaction. "It hurt like hell getting the piercing, but the beauty of the nose pin made it all worth it," I confessed.

"Agreed." He bopped my nose playfully, his crooked smile appearing as the wind gently tousled my hair.

A comfortable silence fell between us, neither of us willing to break it. We simply gazed at each other, finding home in the other's eyes.

That was it. He was my it. Ten years ago, no one could have told me that one trip to Russia would lead to me spending a decade with a man I loved more than life itself. And no one could have told me I'd cherish every single second of those years, and the many more that are yet to come.

A strand of hair fell across my eyes, but before I could lift a finger, Emi gently brushed it away his own, his expression filled with pure, glorious love. "I love you," I whispered, pressing a kiss to the side of his jaw.

His skin flushed slightly, but he returned the gesture, kissing me across the cheek, earning a small smile from me. Then he said,

"You shine so bright, you'd beat a thousand suns, darlin'."

And I loved him forever.

_____