Page 79 of Reclaimed By My Ex’s Bratva Brother

"Listen to me," I said. "I'm not going anywhere."

Her grip on my shirt slowly relaxed.

"Okay," she finally said.

I took her upstairs to the guest room. At the stairs, she grabbed my hand. She walked slowly. I slowed to match her.

She noticed. The corners of her mouth lifted.

"You still wait for me." Something light entered her tone.

"I promised I wouldn't leave." I gently held her wrist to keep her from falling.

"You always keep your promises." She said.

Those words made my hand tighten unconsciously. I'd promised my father I'd protect the family, keep the empire he'd built, and never let anyone see weakness. Those promises pushed me to where I was now. They'd also taught me to calculate the cost before making a promise.

When Briony asked what we were to each other, I couldn't answer.

Because I knew once I said it out loud, it would become another promise. And I didn't know yet what I was willing to pay for it.

At the room, Brinny sat on the edge of the bed, still holding my hand.

"Father's arranged a yacht party." She said.

"When?"

"This weekend. He wants you there."

"Fine."

Such a small thing. I didn't want to refuse her.

"Bring your assistant too." She said it like she'd just thought of it.

Something inside my chest plucked tight.

"Why?" I was surprised.

"She works for you. She should see how things are done." Brinny smiled gently, as if she hadn't been the one demanding to know if I loved Briony in my office that day.

Before I could respond, she dropped her eyes, looking guilty.

"Consider it my apology to her," she continued.

When she mentioned apology, her thumb curled slightly against her skirt. I knew letting go of her pride wasn't easy. Admitting jealousy had already cost her enough dignity.

But I wanted to say yes for a different reason.

A image flashed through my head, unbidden. Briony standing on a yacht, blonde hair blown back by the sea breeze. Swimsuit fabric clinging to her curves, full breasts barely contained, thick thighs pressed together.

She'd lift her chin like she was deliberately provoking me, letting sunlight move across that young, soft body. She'd blush under my stare but wouldn't hide. She'd just ask in that bold voice of hers if I'd seen enough.

Heat rushed toward my groin. My throat moved.

"Yes. I'll bring her."

"Then it's settled." Brinny looked at me for two seconds, then shifted further onto the bed. "Stay with me."