“So I’m learning.I made inquiries about a music teacher, and I’m afraid there is no one suitable in town, but what would you say to learning via the internet?I spoke to my grandmother, and she has a friend in London who will teach you.From what grandmother told me, you’d learn similar things to what your university course would cover.You’d have an hour’s class three days a week and time to practice.If you wish to learn how to play the mandolin, I can arrange a teacher.”
“You’ve organized that for me today?”
“It was the least I could do.Unfortunately, given the danger, I’ll need you to stay around the house.You can go out, but I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to wait until bodyguards are available to escort you.I trust Ivan and Gregor with my life; they’ll look after you with the same care I would.”
“So I’m going to be a prisoner here?”
He sighed, and it was an unhappy sound.“It will only be for a short time.That’s the last of the gravel.Your palms should heal now.”He stood and extended one hand.“Rita will have our drinks and snacks ready.Are you hungry?”
“Yes,” Edwina said.
Mikhail took her face in his hands.His eyes glowed with an otherworldly glow, mesmerizing her.Her heart began a fast tattoo, banging against the wall of her chest.Her leopard stretched beneath her skin, and she leaned closer.An instant later, their lips met in a kiss that grabbed the breath from her.He teased her mouth, licked her lips, and stoked her pleasure.He cupped the back of her head, tangling his fingers in her hair.The lazy stroke of his tongue entranced her as he increased the assault on her mouth.
When he pulled back, her knees trembled, and she craved more.More of his mouth, his hands.More of his body pressing against hers as it had during their lovemaking on the plane.
“We’d better go before Rita comes looking for us.”He clasped her hand and led her from the en suite.“You’re welcome to redecorate if the rooms aren’t to your taste.”
“No, I like your house from what I’ve seen.I might add a few things, but I won’t change much,” Edwina said.“Is there a room I can use for my music?”
“Yes, there is a small reception room off the lounge.It overlooks the gardens and has good lighting.My mother’s grand piano is in that room.”
“Really?”Excitement filled her.A grand piano.“Is the piano in tune?”
“I had it tuned three months ago.”
“Do you play?”
“Not me,” Mikhail said.“I can appreciate music, but my talent in that area is sadly lacking.”
“I’ll be able to use it for my studies and to work with my friend.”Pleasure at the idea of immersing herself in her music took some of the sting out of her day.
“Thank you,” Mikhail said.
Puzzled, she studied him.“Why are you thanking me?”
“I’ve turned your entire life upside down, and you’re making the best of what you have.Few women would behave with the dignity you have.”
Rita arrived with a trolley of drinks, and Edwina’s stomach rumbled at the savory scent of a meaty snack.
Mikhail chuckled, and she relaxed, not minding the humor at her expense.
“Let me feed you.You should’ve said you were hungry.”
“I was too busy getting shot at.”She watched Mikhail’s expression turn dark and felt no guilt.“I dislike secrets.”
“I’m older than you,” Mikhail replied.“My life has traveled a very different path to yours.It will take us time to get used to each other.”
Not very encouraging.Edwina sat in the chair Mikhail indicated, noting the seating area was away from windows and doors.“Will I continue to be a target?”
“Once more people learn of our marriage, I expect the danger will increase.My grandfather is unhappy with my decision to marry you.My link to a woman from outside the Bratva means his friends will see this as a further sign of our family’s dishonor to the traditional ways.”
“I know nothing about Russian gangs.Are they as bad as they’re portrayed?”
“In many cases, worse.”
Another thought occurred.“Aren’t you in danger too?Your business and your employees?”
“Yes.”
