Page 121 of Beloved
“He tried,” she whispered. “But his life is his own. I don’t blame him. Just remember that when you discover the truth.”
“What I may end up doing today will be one of the hardest things I’ve ever done in my life.” Admitting it wasn’t a weakness. It was allowing through the sadness of knowing how easily trust and loyalty could be abandoned.
“Because family is important.”
With my hand firmly wrapped around hers, I pulled her hand to my mouth, kissing each knuckle. “More than I understood. Which is why you’re never leaving me.”
Thankfully, her laugh was able to fill me with joy. “Well, I might be able to tolerate you for a few years if… If I’m allowed to live my life.”
“I think that might be arranged.”
“Then you’re not getting away from me,” she purred.
I eased hair from her face then pulled her into my lap. She placed her arms on my shoulders, wrinkling her adorable nose. “You are a godsend, Rafaela. Naughty. But a godsend.”
“Tell me that in twenty years. If our marriage lasts that long.”
Laughing, I slipped my hand around the back of her head. “It will.”
“How do you know?”
“Because I’m never allowing you out of my sight.” This time as I captured her mouth, there was even more sweetness, a joy of tasting her that felt free of the chains of before.
I loved the beautiful woman, but the past had to be put to rest before I could feel true and absolute freedom.
That meant it was almost time to play my last hand.
One that could have a chance of crushing what was left of my soul.
As soon as the kiss was broken, she nipped my bottom lip.
Smiling, I brushed my hand across her cheek, worried that I’d hurt her. I could tell by the sparkle in her eye she was enjoying the hell out of herself.
Maybe there was something to having a partner.
Especially one as beautiful as my future wife.
CHAPTER 27
Kazimir
As soon as we’d landed, Kirill whisked her toward the two waiting SUVs. Now that I was on Russian soil, I’d need to act quickly to have her secured before the news of my arrival rolled through the city like wildfire.
I stood near the plane, taking several deep breaths. The late May weather was much warmer than when I’d left three years before. While I had mixed feelings about returning, I’d need to shove aside all emotions until the game was played to a conclusion. And in truth, it wouldn’t take long.
Business had to go on.
But there was something very personal that had to be done.
As I pulled out my phone, I scanned the area. Kirill had commanded Grigor to gather a few loyal men to be brought into the loop. They knew their lives depended on keeping the secret of my return from the dead. I felt certain I could trust them, including with keeping her safe.
Before I had a chance to make a call, the phone rang and I smiled seeing the number on the screen. Things were beginning to fall into place.
“Madame Dubois.”
“Kazimir. As you asked, I have news. An interesting visit from some men. After a few cocktails, they were happy to discuss news about an upcoming wedding that would bring about a powerhouse alliance.”
“A wedding. Yes, I’m aware.”
