Page 86 of The Bratva Enforcer and His Virgin Bride

I run my fingers along a worn spine before sliding the book into place.

“Miss Sofia?”

I look up.

Maria, one of the housekeepers, stands in the doorway.

She smiles politely.

“Yes?”

“Mr. Rusnak asked me to let you know he’s waiting for you on the balcony.”

I blink.

For a moment, I’m convinced I’ve misheard her.

“Lukyan?”

“Yes.”

That’s all she says, as though that explains anything.

It doesn’t.

Over the past few weeks, Lukyan has become an expert at maintaining distance. Not avoiding me exactly. Just… keeping himself carefully out of reach.

We see each other at meals sometimes. Occasionally in passing. A few brief conversations. Nothing more.

Part of me had begun to think he preferred it that way.

The realization leaves me oddly disappointed.

Which is ridiculous.

I should appreciate the peace.

Instead, I find myself wondering why he’s suddenly looking for me.

“What does he want?”

Maria laughs softly. “I wouldn’t know, ma’am.”

Fair enough.

I thank her and stand.

The moment she leaves, I smooth down my sweater and immediately feel foolish for doing it.

Why am I nervous?

It’s Lukyan. Not an exam. Not a job interview. Not anything remotely reasonable to be nervous about.

And yet my stomach feels strangely unsettled as I leave the library.

The balcony sits off the far side of the house, overlooking the gardens below. By the time I reach the glass doors, I can already see him.

He’s standing with his back to me. One hand resting on the railing. Dark clothes. Broad shoulders. The familiar silhouette instantly recognizable.