Page 133 of Break Me

I gave him a dirty look as he stood, sizing him up with my heated gaze.

When I’d asked what he’d been up to that morning, he’d simply said putting out a fire. That was funny since when he’d walked in the door, I’d gathered a slight hint of smoke.

He’d promised me he wouldn’t hurt Liam and I believed him. As of eight-thirty this morning, I’d had access to the trust fund he’dset up for Emily. At least my brother-in-law hadn’t lied about that.

Now my little girl had a tidy nest egg.

“Intermission is almost over. You won’t be able to talk with her,” I reminded him.

Alexsey buttoned his jacket, rolling his eyes as dramatically as Emily always did. “You forget I can make anything happen when I want.”

“Ha. You just think you can.”

The grin on his face meant he was up to something. I knew him far too well.

Yet as he walked away, I couldn’t take my eyes off him. He was far too handsome for his own good.

I bit my lip as Emily fidgeted in her seat, eager for the concert to continue.

“I’m glad you’re going to be a part of the family,” Bristol said.

“I’m not family. Just… Someone who might tame him.”

“I heard he asked you to marry him.” Her eyes were open wide.

“No, he stated it in a room full of men, some of whom likely wanted to kill him for various reasons.”

Mikhail laughed. “I did mention to my brother it wasn’t very romantic.”

“Well,” I said. “You might be surprised.”

“Now, you must tell us,” Bristol said, laughing just as the lights began to dim.

“We’ll see.” I squeezed Emily, hoping he’d be back soon.

Of course, the man was late, missing the first two songs. When he missed a third, I had to admit I was getting aggravated. He’d promised me no business tonight.

Lainey walked to the edge of the stage and I thought Emily was going to have a heart attack.

“How is everyone tonight?” Lainey screamed out, waving her arm.

Both Emily and Nina were squealing so loudly I was shocked anyone could hear themselves think.

Lainey walked closer to where we were sitting, waving to both little girls.

“I’m so glad you’re here and you two look adorable,” Lainey commented.

It was a good thing Alexsey had insisted we buy a couple of tee shirts. I had a feeling Emily would sleep in hers for a week.

And I would need hearing protectors if she screamed like that one more time.

“I am so happy to be in Las Vegas. I’m also thrilled to have a guest artist with me tonight. One night only and one song only, written with someone very special in mind. I am so honored that he’s allowed me to perform with him on this stage and who knows. He also might allow me to record it as well for my upcoming album. If we encourage him.”

“What?” I knew I said out loud as I leaned forward.

“This special guest will be accompanying me on the piano and vocally this evening,” Lainey added.

I turned to look at Sasha first who shrugged, then to Bristol and Mikhail. The powerful Pakhan tried his best not to have any emotion on his face.