Page 34 of Inked in Devotion

Her eyes opened. Her naturally sleepy eyes were so calming.

“Close your eyes, princess.”

“Why?”

“Because I want to kiss them.”

“Any harder holding that glass and it will shatter.” Maksim’s amused tone broke through my memory.

“I can’t do this,” I said.

“What can’t you do?”

“Watch her marry another man.” I slid off the barstool and stood.

“What the fuck are you doing?”

My movement had the desired effect. Chloe was staring at me; her mouth gaped.

Daniel noticed.

Their entire table became aware and twisted in my direction.

De Lucci scowled. As for Chloe’s date, his brows were drawn together in a hint of confusion. I didn’t know what his sister’s expression was. My gaze was focused on Chloe.

“Where’s the restroom?” I asked.

“What are you…”

“Where?!” I boomed, losing patience and drawing attention to me and Maks. More than a few guests glowered at us with judgmental expressions.

“Christ. The hallway on the right,” Maks muttered. “What the hell are you doing?”

I didn’t answer him and started walking in that direction, my eyes on Chloe as I gestured for her to follow me.

Maksim caught my elbow. “You better not cause a scene. Quorum has zero tolerance for violence. They don’t care who we are.”

Chloe and her companions leaned closer to have a discussion.

“I’ll try not to get us banned.” I shook off his hold and continued walking.

I didn’t expect Chloe to be meeting me alone. Daniel was behind her and was staring daggers at me. I guessed he was updated on our history.

“Chloe,” I drawled. “Mr. Wu…are you her bodyguard?”

His jaw hardened.

“Do you really think I’m going to hurt the mother of my child?” I challenged.

“I’m making sure you don’t mess with her head,” he said.

“Your sources are wrong.” I stepped closer to them. “I don’t waste time with mind games. That’s Kirill’s expertise.”

“Are you saying you go straight for the kill?” he derided. “And you question why I don’t trust Chloe alone with you?”

Bloodlust surged through me, and it was a struggle not to let it bleed into my expression. The last thing I wanted was for Chloe to see that side of me.

“What are you doing here, Kolya?” Chloe pressed a hand against my chest, and that was when I noticed I’d taken a threatening step forward.