Page 61 of Sergei

“Absolutely.”

We both grew quiet, and it wasn’t long before Lina’s breath grew shallow. I thought she’d fallen asleep until she whispered, “I never thought I’d find this kind of peace.”

“Me either.”

“You think it’ll stay this way?”

“I don’t know, but I’m going to try everything in my power to make sure that it does.”

I meant it. I would do whatever I could, but it wouldn’t be easy. Our pasts hung over us both. At any point, someone could recognize her, and everything would go to hell. Or the bratva could twist my arm and force me to agree to a partnership that went against everything I’d fought for.

The cards were stacked against us, but for her, I would do whatever I could to put the odds in our favor—even if it meant putting everything on the line. She deserved a good life, and I wanted to be the one who gave it to her.

She grew quiet once again, and it wasn’t long before she drifted off. Her breaths were low and soft, and she was curled up next to me like she belonged there. I liked the feeling and wanted to savor it for a bit. I stared up at the ceiling and just listened to the rhythm of her sleep, and it wasn’t long before my own exhaustion got the best of me.

The next morning, I woke with a new sense of resolve. Lina was still sleeping soundly when I got out of bed and eased the covers back so I could check her foot. It was bruised, but I was pleased to see that the swelling was gone. Not perfect, but better.

I was lowering the blanket back down when Lina grumbled, “Do you have a foot fetish I should know about?”

“Just checking the status of the toe.”

“It’s much better.”

“Good,” I smirked. “That means we can get you out today.”

“Out where?”

“Get up and dressed.” I grabbed some clean slacks from the closet. “And then, you’ll find out.”

“Ugh.” Her groan followed me across the room. “I don’t like surprises.”

“Well, that’s too bad for you, because I do,” I snickered. “Now, get up and let’s do this.”

“You can be a real pain.”

“Oh, you have no idea, but give it time.” I gave her a wink. “You’ll see soon enough.”

20

LINA

Iwas perfectly content in Sergei’s bed.

I could’ve laid there tangled in his arms all day, but after hearing what Viktor had said, it seemed he was set on getting me out of the apartment. So, I did the only thing I could. I dragged myself out of his bed, wrapped a blanket around me, and shuffled toward the door, sighing like I was being put out.

He gave me a mischievous smile as he teased, “You know I’ve seen everything you’re trying to hide under that blanket.”

I didn’t respond.

I simply hiked up the blanket even higher, making him chuckle as I skirted past him. After a quick shower, I changed into a pair of jeans and a white sweater. I did my hair and makeup, and once I’d put on my tall boots, I grabbed my coat and darted out of the room.

When I made it to the living room, I found Sergei standing at the door with his keys in his hand. “You ready?”

“You know, I never realized how chipper you were in the mornings.”

“I never realized how grumpy you were in the mornings.” He cocked his brow. “And slow.”

“Hey. I’m trying,” I pouted. “I haven’t even had coffee yet.”