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Not in the proud, beat-your-chest kind of way.

Like I’d done something that mattered kind of good.

There was no sign of Tabitha as I started the engine and eased down the drive. Not that it mattered. She knew I’d been there, and I wasn’t giving up on her, not yet.

But the ball was in her court. It was her turn to make a play. I just hoped she would take the chance. That’s all either of us needed.

12

TABITHA

Iwas up in my apartment, making myself a bowl of soup, when my front door opened, and Nikolai walked in. I could tell by his expression that something was bothering him, but I had no idea what it could be. He was still in his dress pants and button-down, so I knew he’d just left Sergei’s office.

I assumed it had something to do with one of his brothers until Nikolai sat down at the counter and asked, “Is it true?”

“Is what true?”

His jaw tightened. “Are you seeing him?”

I felt my chest go tight.

Not from shame or guilt but from the way he was looking at me. It made me feel like he thought I’d done something wrong. I was used to judgment. I’d had it all my life, but not from Nikolai. He was the one person who loved me unconditionally, and he certainly never judged me or my choices—until today.

“I’m not seeing him. I went on a date with him.”

“And he was here today?”

“He was.”

“Have you lost your mind?”

“Nikolai.”

“I’m serious, mother,” he fussed. “You have no idea who this guy is.”

“As a matter of fact, I do.”

“Clearly, you don’t!” Nikolai’s temper was starting to get the best of him when he growled, “He’s dangerous. More dangerous than anyone we’ve ever dealt with.”

“And yet, you went to him to ask for help.”

“We went to him because everyone in this fucking city is scared of him!”

“That’s not the only reason, and you know it.”

“It doesn’t matter. You’re not getting involved with him.”

“That’s not up for you to decide. The choice is mine and mine alone.”

“So, you’re planning to see him again?”

A cold ache settled in my chest as I crossed my arms and answered, “No, as a matter of fact, I’m not.”

“But I thought…” He sucked in an angry breath. “What the fuck did he do?”

“Stop.” I held up my hand and shook my head. “He didn’t do anything. He was just like I thought he would be. He was a perfect gentleman. This is about me.”

“What are you talking about?”