Page 130 of Ruthless Reign

“We agreed to say Anatoly died in a tragic accident on vacation. We've paid off the authorities, and that's the story his family will hear." He grimaces. "I hate hiding that he was an abusive monster, but revealing the truth would bring unwanted attention to you and Sofiya. I can't risk that.”

“I just want to forget he ever existed.” I shudder. “By the way, Sofiya asked about the annulment. I'm sure she's anxious to get it over and done with.”

Roman drags a hand over his neck. “Nikolai is busy taking the reins of his bratva and securing St. Petersburg. But in the next few weeks, he'll be in Moscow to meet with Maxim and work out an arrangement between our organizations. We can deal with the annulment then.”

“Good idea.” I open my arms.

Roman steps into my embrace, wrapping himself around me, knowing exactly what I need. “When do I get to make you my wife?” he growls huskily against my neck.

“I’m yours forever, no matter what. But I have been thinking…”

His eyebrows raise.

“I don't want a big wedding. I just want close family and friends, and I was hoping we can have it at the cabin—a way to remember your mother.”

He pulls away and looks at me, his eyes shining with emotion. “If we wait until summer, we can have it under the giant oak tree that she and I planted. It was her favorite.”

I grin, my heart swelling. “I’d love that. I can't wait to share forever with you, Roman Vasiliev.”

“Fuck, baby.” He cups my head, his gaze intense. “I don't know how I got so lucky, but I've never been happier. No one else makes me feel like you do.” His words take my breath away. “You complete me. You’ve turned my world around and made me a better man for it. This life isn’t worth living unless you’re by my side.”

Damn. Tears fall unchecked. I never imagined that I’d find a love like this—a love that is deep, real, and all-consuming.

“It’s the same for me,” I whisper as he brushes away my tears. “There’s nothing else I want more than to be yours until the end of time.”

Roman is my sanctuary, my protector—my everything.

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