Or it was something like that. I found her words of wisdom to be completely wise. I missed her when she left, but her true passion had been to travel, and the moment an opportunity arose, she left. Not that I held it against her. I didn’t. I remember how happy she was.
Cutting into the slice of tofu that had lovely grill marks and a slight smokey flavor was so delicious, along with all the vegetables dressed in a gorgeous seasoning. I was in Heaven. It was so good.
I didn’t pay much attention to the conversation at the table happening between Ivan, Slavik, and Andrei. My husband didn’t look happy. I’m not sure if I’ve ever seen him happy. He’d never smiled in my presence. He sipped at his wine looking rather concentrated.
Finishing off the food, I pressed the napkin to my lips.
Aurora declared she needed to use the ladies’ room, and it was the perfect opportunity for us to get away from the men.
I wanted to get away from them. In the car, the way Andrei had touched me had sent a flame shooting right through my body in a way I’d never experienced before. Was I attracted to my husband? I don’t know. There was a lot I didn’t know. Just like he didn’t know a whole lot about me.
Getting to my feet, I followed Aurora into the bathroom. The moment the door was closed, she crouched down and looked beneath each toilet stall.
“We’re alone.” She spun toward me. “How are you?”
“I’m fine.”
“Are you?” Aurora asked, searching my gaze.
I nod my head. “Yes, I’m perfectly fine.”
“Thank God. I’ve been so worried about you since the wedding. You’ve not gone on your honeymoon?”
“No.” There was no mention of us going away together, and to be honest, why would we? “Our marriage isn’t a love match, Aurora. I don’t think we’ll be going on a honeymoon.”
Aurora frowned. “You know you can call me anytime.” She pulled out a piece of paper from her purse. “I’ll be happy to talk to you.”
“Thank you.”
“You know, you’re nothing like your sister.”
I couldn’t help but laugh. “That’s not exactly hard for me to do.”
She giggled.
“We better go back to the table,” Aurora said. “I just wanted to make sure you were okay.”
“I’m fine.” At the wedding, Aurora had been a lifeline, but now I’m not so sure. I don’t know why I suddenly feel this way, but a sense of dread is washing over me. “I do need to use the bathroom. I’ll join you in a minute.”
“You’re sure?”
“Yeah, I’m sure.” I force a smile to my lips, hoping she doesn’t see the fear in my eyes.
She wraps her arms around me, holding me close for a couple of seconds. “I’m so pleased we’re able to see each other again.”
I wished I believed her. Paranoia was a horrible thing.
Aurora left me in the bathroom. I don’t need to use the toilet, but I do need a few minutes away from the table. It was just too much. In and out, I take several deep breaths. There’s nothing I can’t handle.
Dinner with Bratva men-piece of cake. Plans with Aurora-easy-peasy. The moment I allow myself to think of what my life has become-a fucking nightmare.
“You’re taking too long.”
Jerking up, I see Andrei has entered the bathroom. It’s easier for me to want to shout at him and tell him what a horrible husband he’s being when he’s not in the room. He looks too scary right now.
“I just needed a minute.”
“What’s that?” he asked, pointing to the slip of paper Aurora gave me.
“It’s her phone number.”
“She’s worried I’m hurting you?”
“No, not like that. She’s just worried because I … the wedding and stuff.” I’m rambling.
Since the car, I’m not sure I want to be alone with him. I’m not used to my body reacting that way. He took a step toward me. On instinct, I stepped back. I didn’t mean to do it, but I felt I needed distance from this man.
It didn’t stop Andrei, he kept coming until he’d trapped me between the wall and his body.
I should feel fear, but I don’t.
This man is used to getting what he wants. I’m not what he wants. Bethany is. Would he kill me to get to my sister?
“You know, if you want something, all you have to do is ask,” he said.
“There’s nothing I want.”
He smirked as if he knew a secret I didn’t.
“You’re enjoying life in the penthouse suite,” he said.
“It’s … fine.” I was bored and he knew it. I’m not sure how he knew, but the way he looked at me, there was an understanding in his eyes. As if he knew he was doing it on purpose and that alone was enough to piss me off. “What would I need to ask for?”
“That’s up to you to tell me.”
The tips of his fingers traced across the skin of my cheek. “So smooth.” This was my chance. I wore this revealing dress, which I happened to like, but that was beside the point. I did what he wanted me to do. I didn’t want to spend another day sitting around that stupid penthouse suite.
“What if I wanted to go out?” I asked.
“To shop?”
Shopping was boring. “Perhaps.” It was a start at least.