I expect a sharp nod, snark remark or smirk.
Instead—
He hugs me.
A full-body, chest-to-chest, iron-armed hug that locks my shoulders in place.
“What the—Vaska!”
“You’re doing good,” he murmurs, patting my back once.Hard.“Keep her happy.”
He steps away like it’s nothing.
I stand there, stunned.
We’ve sparred.
Threatened.
Gotten into actual blows.
But never.
Neverhugged.
Across the room, Nico is absolutely failing not to laugh.
My phone buzzes in my pocket breaking me from my shock.
Enzo
No answer at door. Neighbor says he hasn’t seen her all day. Car still in lot. Door locked. Window slightly open. Orders?
My jaw clenches. I glance at Vasilisa, still glowing with happiness as she accepts congratulations.
Enter. Quiet. Report back immediately.
I pocket my phone and move back to my wife’s side, sliding an arm around her waist. She leans into me instantly, like she was waiting for my touch.
“They’re happy for us,” she whispers, her eyes shining.
“Of course they are,” I murmur, pressing a kiss to her temple. “They love you and you’ve given them something to celebrate.”
“We’vegiven them something,” she corrects.
I’m about to respond when my phone buzzes again. I check it discreetly.
Enzo
Signs of struggle. Blood on carpet. Not much. Place looks ransacked. Broken mirror. No sign of her. Closet emptied. Phone left behind. Cracked screen.
Fuck.
Chapter 12
Meet Me in the Garden
The last of the guests slip out into the cold night, breaths fogging in the air as they wave their goodbyes. Luna squeezes me so tightly I feel her earrings brush my cheek.
