Page 35 of Roman Petrov

“Has it?” I pull her closer, letting my palm hug her hip as we walk. “Would you like to meet her?”

Her fingers dig into me. “No! I’d be too embarrassed!” Crimson covers her throat, tempting me to chase it with my tongue.

“Don’t be silly. She would be the lucky one for meeting you, lastochka.” Tugging her with me, we find our spot on an elevated platform in the back of the restaurant.

Everyone can see us silhouetted against the Vegas skyline.

But, they seem dim and dull in comparison to my beautiful wife. She’s becoming the shining light to me, the beacon drawing me through each day with the hopes of catching a glimpse of her through the darkness.

She bites her lip and gives me a small smile before I pull her chair and beckon her to sit.

“Thank you, Roman.” Her dark eyes watch me take the seat before her, and don’t leave mine as I lean across the narrow table.

“I’m the one who should be thanking you for offering me another chance to spend some time with you.” I don’t want to add the words ‘before we part’ because they seem so final.

Looking down, she fusses with her napkin until the waiter approaches to take our order.

When she does glance at me again, her brows are furrowed and the corner of her mouth drops into a small frown. “Did you bring the papers?”

I can’t tell if that’s hope or resignation in her sigh when I nod.

“Excuse me?” A high voice approaches us.

Just in time.

“Are you Nadia Sanders?” Elizabeth Devonson steps closer, her smile is broad and genuine appearing.

She must be quite happy with the funds I offered.

Nadia’s cheeks flush with bright red. “I-I am.”

Elizabeth brushes her bushy green hair back with an embellished wave. “I was just telling my friend, I couldn’t believe it was you! I saw your show in L.A. this past fall and have been absolutely dying to meet you!” Bracelets jangle on her wrists as she clasps Nadia’s hand enthusiastically.

“You were there?” Nadia stares up with wide eyes as she chews on her bottom lip.

“I would never forget the sequins on that wrap!” she squeals and claps her palms. “When I saw Roman walk in, I was wondering who would be lucky enough to be on his arm. Imagine my wondrous surprise when I saw who it was! I swear you’re the only one in the world talented enough to be with him.”

Elizabeth steps back and tugs a quiet dark haired man closer. “This is my husband, Reggie. We should all get together for dinner one of these days!”

A frown furrows her sleek brows. “Wait, are you two a thing?” She flicks her long painted nail between us.

This is my chance.

I lean forward and take Nadia’s hand in mine. “She’s my wife.”

Watching Nadia, I catch the glimmer of a shy smile as the blush works her way up her neck.

“Marvelous! Cause for celebration! Roman, you never put out an announcement? Did I miss the party?” She playfully smacks my shoulder.

“We eloped,” Nadia says quietly before biting her lip.

“Oh, that’s so romantic!” Elizabeth clasps her fingers to her chest, her bracelets slide down nearly to her elbows. “Roman lent me some of his models last year for a show. We absolutely have to collab, girl. Call me, and we can set up a show the likes of which Vegas can only dream of!” Her puffy dress swirls around her before she pulls her silent husband with her down the steps of the dias.

Well, that went better than expected.

Nadia watches her leave, her large eyes practically unblinking until Elizabeth disappears.

“I can’t believe you know her. She’s so, so amazing.” Her sigh slumps her onto her chair.

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