“A b-bomb went off at the construction site for the new club.”
My hand flew to cover my mouth. “Oh my God. Was anyone hurt?”
“Thankfully all the workers had left for t-the evening, but we’re not sure about anyone else close b-by.”
“I’m so sorry.”
Nodding, he said, “I have to go.”
“Of course you do.”
“You’re welcome to stay here as long as you want.”
Shaking my head, I replied, “I’ll just call an Uber to go home.”
“No. One of my men will escort you.”
“Am I in danger?” I questioned shakily.
Maksim gave me a tight smile. “I’m just being overly cautious.”
From his expression, I knew he wasn’t being completely honest. “Iamin danger.”
“You are safe with me and my men.”
Although I wanted to believe him, I couldn’t shake my unease. “Okay, I’ll just have them take me home.”
Maksim shook his head. “Come to my house. I want you t-to be there when I get home.”
“Are you sure?”
His eyes conveyed more than he wanted to say. “Absolutely.”
Trying to lighten the mood, I replied, “You better be glad I have an automatic feeder for Voxie.”
With a smile, Maksim said, “You can always go b-by your place and get her. The allergy shots have had more time to t-take effect now, so I’m good.”
“That’s very tempting. Especially considering she’s bougie at heart and loves your place.”
Maksim’s amused gaze grew serious as he glanced over my shoulder. When I turned around, Dima was motioning him to hurry up. With a resigned sigh, he said, “I’ll see you later.”
“Be safe.”
“I will.”
After bestowing a brief kiss on my lips, he hurried off to join Dima. Timur, who I’d met earlier in the evening, appeared at my side. “Are you ready, Dr. Whitfield?”
Patting his arm, I replied, “There’s no need to be so formal. It’s just Sarah.”
“Mr. Korolov instructed me on how to address you.”
With a roll of my eyes, I replied, “Of course he did.”
I made quick work saying goodbye to Mila as well as Kira. All the other Korolov brothers had left along with some of the Kavanaughs. I imagined they were the Irish family that Maksim had mentioned having a stake in the club.
As we walked to the SUV, Timur said, “Mr. Korolov texted we might be stopping by your apartment.”
“That’s correct. I need to pick up some clothes and my cat.”
