Page 72 of Seduction (Wicked Vows)

“Are you alright?”

No, I’m not alright. I’m in love with a man who’s forbidden for me, and I have no idea if he feels the same way. How will I navigate this without both of us being destroyed?

“I’m fine,” I tell her. I don’t ever remember lying to my mother before.

I hang up the call and immediately place a second. My father answers after five rings.

“Vera! What a pleasant surprise. I didn’t expect your call.” Of course he didn’t expect my call. I have never, ever called my father. I hear the sounds of clinking glasses, music, and laughter behind him. He’s partying, as usual.

“Father, we have to talk before tomorrow’s event.”

I feel Markov’s eyes on me. I’m not sure at what point he woke up.

“Ah, good, your mother’s told you I requested your presence then.”

“She did. I’ll be there. Can we talk, though?”

“Of course, Vera. Anything for my daughter,” he says too loudly, likely making sure that whoever he’s with hears him.

Gag me.

“I want you to know that you don’t have to hide. . . whoever it is that you’re seeing.” It pains me to say it, but I press on. “I’ve been thinking about it. I know that officially, you and Mom are still married, and I. . . while I’m thankful that you’ve respected me enough to keep her distanced from me, it’s alright if she’s with you tomorrow.”

My father doesn’t speak for a moment. “This is a big step, Vera. I’m honestly taken a bit aback by your selflessness.”

Well, that hurts, but he’s done worse. Also, it isn’t selfless.

“It’s just that. . . I want you to know that I know sometimes situations aren’t perfect. Sometimes, people fall in love with someone they shouldn’t, and it’s important to give each other grace. Don’t you agree?”

My cheeks are too hot, my heartbeat too fast when I say it in a rush of words. My father, however, is quick to agree.

“Yes, of course. Very wise of you, Vera. Very wise indeed. Thank you for that. She won’t be attending tomorrow because she has a prior engagement, but thank you for this.”

I nod. “I understand.”

“Now, I must get back to my friends here, but I look forward to seeing you.”

We disconnect the call. I plug my phone in and place it back on the desk before I look up at Markov. He stares at me in the darkness. Immobile.

“Don’t be angry with me,” I begin. “I—I needed to take a preemptive step.”

We don’t speak for a few long moments.

“That was very brave of you,” he finally says. “Very brave. Thank you, Vera. You inspire me.”

I cross the room to him and crawl under the sheets. He lifts the blanket and welcomes me closer. I snuggle up to his chest and allow myself this guilty pleasure. Being safe and secure in the arms of the man I love yet can never have.

I want to protect him. I want to protect us.

“Is my aunt coming?” he asks. It surprises me because I didn’t expect he’d want to see her.

“No, unfortunately, she won’t be able to attend.”

I don’t know if I imagine it, but he seems to relax a little.

“Ah. Now that you’ve gotten that behind you, get some sleep, baby girl.” He helps me roll over and gives me a firm smack to the ass.

I close my eyes and relish this moment, and finally, I fall asleep. I dream of dark forests, hidden places, and long tunnels that never, ever end.

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