I’ve done many dangerous things in the last few weeks of my life, but having Cristian in my room was one of the riskiest.
Especially since I keep thinking back to that night when I should be focused on meeting with Maksim to finalize wedding details.
He’d insisted I meet at his house, but for once, Alessandro grew balls and said the meeting would be in public and that he’d be there. Not that it would stop Maksim from doing anything.
After all, he ambushed me in a residential area and hunted me through a park.
I was happily surprised I didn’t have to beg to have Cristian be my bodyguard.
Alessandro said Cristian is walking a thin line, but anyone who’s willing to risk their life disrespecting a Don in defense of me is willing to do whatever it takes to keep me safe.
So today, I’m in a private room in the back of a fancy restaurant to meet with Maksim. Cristian is near the door, his presence both comfort and torture.
We haven’t seen each other since the night he snuck up to my room. But his promise echoes in my mind.
I'm going to find a way out of this for you.
I want to believe him, but time is running out.
I adjust my conservative blouse, a lesson learned from an earlier meeting.
Maybe if I look frumpy and boring, Maksim will lose interest.
I don’t think it’s working as when we entered, Maksim looked me over with his predatory smile and said, "My beautiful bride.” He even complemented my appropriate clothing but then whispered how he’ll enjoy my other dresses once we’re alone. It was all I could do not to gag.
Of course, Alessandro didn’t notice. Or if he did, he ignored it.
The meeting slogs on, frustration growing.
This wasn't supposed to be my life.
And the worst part?
I brought this on myself when I agreed to the arrangement.
Now I must see it through, unless Cristian's promise holds more weight than my brother's vows to Maksim.
Alessandro and Maksim debate security arrangements for the reception while I stare at my hands folded in my lap.
I occasionally nod when someone addresses me directly, but mostly, I let my mind wander elsewhere.
"What do you think, Valentina?" Maksim's voice interrupts my thoughts.
I blink, having missed the question entirely. "I'm sorry?"
"The honeymoon." His smile doesn't reach his eyes. "I suggested St. Petersburg. My mother would love to meet you."
The thought of being alone with him halfway across the world makes my stomach clench. "Whatever you think is best."
"Such a submissive bride." He reaches for my hand. "Not at all the fiery woman I first met. I hope you haven't lost your spirit."
I withdraw my hand, folding it back with the other. "I'm simply being practical."
Behind me, I sense Cristian tensing.
The subtle shift in his stance is something I've become attuned to.
Like animals sensing a predator.
