Page 149 of Crave

It takes most of my energy, but I pull one of Alexei’s downy white comforters from his bed out onto the day sofa near the glass door overlooking the veranda.

I can watch the flamingos from here.

Do they have enough food?

They should. I think I checked this morning.

Or, last night?

My head is fuzzy. I’m just so tired. I think I’ll take a little nap and then make sure they’re okay.

Curling the pillow closer, I struggle to smell Alexei on it anymore.

Is that how long a memory lingers? Only a month?

I let my tears stain the satin. Might as well let the pain replace him.

It’s the only thing that can.

CHAPTER 74

ALEXEI

My foot landson Misha’s face again. “I told you,I’m in charge now,” I yell into his ear.

Ben pins his feet to keep him from kicking out.

“You smuggle shit in, and don’t give me a cut, very bad things happen.” I grind my heel into his cheek before I pull away.

“I’m sorry, Alexei. It won’t happen again,” Misha whines from beneath me.

Sven had suggested taking over with a heavy hand.

I had no idea how far I’d have to push to maintain control.

A murmur ripples through the onlookers as I let Misha stand.

Wait, they aren’t looking my way.

“What’s going on?” I ask Sven.

He shrugs his broad shoulders then stands on his toes to see over the heads of the rest of the prisoners.

“He’s back,” Sven grunts, waving at us to follow him.

As I follow him, I try to jump to see over his massive back.

On one jump, I get a glimpse of gray hair and a hunched figure.

There was a part of me worried it was the big bastard whose eyes I gouged out.

I heard he got sent away.

“Boss, it’s good to see you again.” Ben moves to the side, opening a path for the Butcher to wobble to the row of benches.

“Alexei,” the old man steps closer. “I’m glad to see you’re still alive.” A small smile plays over his silver whiskered lips. “I’ve heard you’re keeping everyone in line?”

“Yep. Was a little touch and go at first, but I managed.” I shrug. The blackened eye I got on the second day is nearly healed.

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