Page 56 of Betrayal and Vows

Lev and I grew up together before his family moved to St. Petersburg. He's one of the few people who knew me before I became this polished version of myself.

"How long are you in Moscow?" I ask.

"Just for the wedding festivities. My father insisted I come pay my respects." His expression grows more serious. "Are you happy, Lena?"

The question catches me off guard. “Of course!” I blurt out.

I can’t risk anyone thinking otherwise.

He reaches up and brushes away a strand of hair that has fallen from the elaborate updo the hairstylist did for me. “Are you sure?” His voice is low as he looks into my eyes.

I hear a sound and actually look down to see if a dog has snuck into the garden.

It’s a low, dangerous growl.

Anton is standing behind me. Jaw stone. Eyes murderous.

Lev glances over my shoulder and looks confused.

“Security,” I answer.

“He looks like he wants to tackle me.”

I laugh awkwardly. “He’s… thorough.”

Anton doesn’t say a word.

Just stares at Lev like he’s already buried him in six different ways in six different places.

Lev nods but looks nervous.

“It’s good to see you, Lena. I’m glad you’re happy.”

He drifts away to talk to someone else. I’m pulled into another conversation but notice Lev keeps looking my way.

Ten minutes later, Lev disappears.

Gone.

I only notice when I remember something funny from our childhood and want to ask him if he remembers.

My eyes scan the crowd but don’t see him.

I spot Anton near the hedge wall, arms folded, watching the crowd like a wolf at a petting zoo.

I sidle up beside him, keeping an appropriate distance.

“Where’s Lev?”

He doesn’t even blink. “Left.”

“Just like that?”

“He wasn’t on the guest list.”

“That’s a lie.”

“I didn’t like him.”