Page 51 of Hostage of the Russian

“I do. You’re brilliant and capable, and you deserve to have a career that challenges you and makes you happy.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “I just want to be close enough to watch you succeed.”

“And to drag me into conference rooms for inappropriate kissing?”

“That’s just a bonus.”

She laughed, the sound echoing in the small room. “You’re terrible.”

“You like it.”

“I do.” She straightened his tie, smoothing the silk beneath her fingers. “I really do.”

“So you’ll take the job? Assuming you actually get it through legitimate channels?”

“I’ll consider it.”

“Just consider it?”

“I’ll take it,” she admitted. “But only if you promise to behave yourself during business hours.”

“Define ‘behave myself.’“

“No kissing in conference rooms. No inappropriate comments about my professional attire. No looking at me like you want to bend me over your desk.”

“That’s a lot of restrictions.”

“Those are the terms.”

“Fine.” He stepped back, straightening his own suit jacket. “I accept your terms.”

“Just like that?”

“Just like that.” His smile was pure mischief. “Of course, I should mention that lunch breaks aren’t technically business hours.”

“Kostya.”

“And neither are after-work drinks.”

“You’re impossible.”

“You married me anyway.”

“That wasn’t exactly my choice.”

“No,” he said, his voice growing softer. “But staying married to me is. And I’m very glad you’re choosing to stay.”

The tenderness in his words made her heart flutter. “So am I.”

“Good.” He opened the door and gestured for her to precede him. “Now, let’s get you back to Janet so she can schedule your real interview. I have a feeling you’re going to impress the hell out of them.”

“And if I don’t?”

“Then they’re idiots, and I’ll find you something better.” He pressed a quick kiss to her temple. “But you will. You’re going to be amazing.”

As they walked back toward his office, Azriel found herself smiling. For the first time since this whole mess had started, she felt like she had something to look forward to. A real job, a chance to use her education, the possibility of building a life that was truly her own.

And maybe, just maybe, a husband who actually wanted to see her succeed.

It was more than she’d ever dared hope for.