Page 177 of Reign

“An emergency is more convincing with witnesses.”

Understanding moves across her face.

She places her hand in mine and I lead her out of the nursery.

Her fingers remain wrapped around mine until we reach the stairs. Then she releases me and smooths both palms over her dress as the voices below become clearer.

Tension creeps back into her shoulders, dulled now by the promise of escape.

I settle my hand at the small of her back.

She leans into it for half a second before straightening.

Enough.

We find everyone in the sitting room beside the dining room. Vasilisa is curled into the corner of the sofa while Santo stands near the fireplace. Angelo and Adriana are speaking quietly by the bar.

Every face turns toward us.

Angelo looks at Elena first. “Where did you go?”

“Upstairs.”

A useless answer delivered with impressive confidence.

Adriana studies Elena’s face, then mine.

My phone rings.

Right on time.

I answer as I guide Elena farther into the room.

“Rafael.”

Whatever he says is irrelevant.

I listen long enough to be convincing and let my expression settle into something appropriately grim.

“Keep it contained until I arrive.”

Elena glances at me.

I end the call.

Santo’s attention sharpens. “Problem?”

“One that requires me.”

I look at Elena. “We’re leaving.”

Angelo straightens. “Elena can stay. I’ll have one of my men take her back to the hotel.”

Her body tightens beneath my hand.

She draws a breath.

“Generous,” I say. “Unnecessary.”