Page 28 of Arranged Mafia Marriage

He turns to me, chest heaving. “Are you alright?” His voice is rough with exertion.

I nod, unable to speak. My throat burns where the wire cut into my skin, and I’m shaking uncontrollably.

He approaches me slowly, as if afraid I’ll bolt. “It’s okay,” he says softly. “You’re safe now. I’ve got you.”

His words break the dam, and I collapse against him, sobbing. He wraps his arms around me, holding me tightly as I cry.

“I thought I was going to die,” I choke out between sobs.

Kiril gently strokes my back. “I won’t let that happen. I promise.”

As my sobs subside, I become acutely aware of his solid presence. His heart beats steadily under my ear, and his arms feel like a fortress around me. For the first time since this whole ordeal began, I truly believe I’m safe. I pull back slightly, looking up at Kiril. He seems shaken while still somewhat enraged. “How did you know?” I ask.

“I was coming to surprise you with a couples’ massage. When I heard the commotion, I knew something was wrong.”

Gratitude washes over me. “You saved my life.”

He gently cups my face, brushing away a stray tear with his thumb. “I will always protect you.”

The intensity in his features takes my breath away. This is more than just a business arrangement or a duty. I see genuine care and something deeper that I’m not ready to name.

“We need to get you out of here,” says Kiril, glancing at the unconscious hitman. “My men will take care of this mess.”

I nod, suddenly exhausted. Kiril keeps an arm around me as he guides me through the spa, shielding me from curious onlookers. In the parking lot, he helps me into a waiting car.

As we drive away, I press my head against the cool window, processing what just happened. “It was one of Damiano’s men, wasn’t it?” I ask quietly.

Kiril’s jaw clenches. “Most likely. He’s getting desperate.”

“What are we going to do?”

Kiril squeezes my hand. “We’re going to keep you safe, and we’re going to end this threat permanently.”

I look at our intertwined hands, then back at him. The determination in his face should frighten me, but instead, it makes me feel secure. I trust this man completely, not just with my life, but with my heart. It’s a little frightening and a lot heady. “Okay,” I say softly. “I trust you.”

He brings my hand to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss to my knuckles. “Thank you, darling. I won’t let you down.”

As we drive through the city, I close my eyes, allowing myself to relax in his presence. The day’s events have left me shaken, but they’ve also shown me the depth of my husband’s commitment. The car speeds through the city streets, the world outside a blur of lights and shadows. My heart still races from the attack, adrenaline coursing through my veins. His presence beside me is both comforting and electrifying.

I turn to face him, taking in his strong profile. “Thank you. You saved my life back there.”

His gaze is intense. “I’m glad I was there.”

The air between us crackles with tension. Without thinking, I sway closer and press my lips to his. Kiril responds immediately, pulling me closer. His kiss is fierce and demanding, igniting a fire deep within me.

I climb onto his lap, straddling him as our kisses grow more urgent. His hands roam over my body, exploring every curve and dip. I grind against him, feeling his cock harden beneath me.

He breaks our kiss, his breathing ragged.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, breathless.

“Nothing,” he says, his voice husky. “I just need to feel you.”

I nod, understanding. I need to feel him too. I look over my shoulder to ensure the privacy screen is up, shielding us from Viktor before I start tugging at his suit jacket.

He helps me remove it, and I toss it to the floor. My fingers move to the buttons of his shirt, undoing them with trembling fingers. I can’t believe I’m doing this, but I need to feel his skin against mine. I push the shirt off his shoulders, revealing a muscular chest and arms. For a second, I place my hand over his heart, feeling it thump steadily under my hand.

When I was in the throes of dying, not sure I’d escape that wire, I didn’t have time to think about anything. Now that I’m free and have a second chance, I want to embrace everything. I want to live. I want to experience all the things I’ve missed out on. And right now, I want to experience Kiril again.

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