Page 71 of Cruel Honor

“Well, I need it more.” He sits back in his seat. “Was that all?”

I look at Juno, who’s been sitting next to me, quiet this entire time.She didn’t come to my defense once. I sigh and nod. “Yes. That was all.”

Juno and I leave the station. “I still think you should have pressed charges against Dimitri.”

“No,” I snap, harsher than I intended. “Now, the police have the information they need. I’m heading to the library.”

“We came in the same car.”

“I’ll walk.” It might not be safe, but I know Dimitri has a guard watching me. Even with Dimitri not in my life anymore, he’s still present.

I’m not sure how to feel about that.

The library is exactly the same as it was before my entire life changed. Of course, it would be. It’s an unmovable building.

But seeing it look the same makes me feel steadfast and secure. I’m safe as long as I have the library and my books.

“Evie?” Sally asks, slowly walking toward me. She’s constantly wearing flowy, floor-length skirts and bangles on her wrists, giving her a boho, hippie vibe, and the sight of her fills me with warmth.

“I’m back.”

“Where have you been? We’ve been worried. I considered filing a missing person’s report, but I spoke to your stepmom, and she said you were alive.”

“I … had a family emergency, but it’s been taken care of. I know I should’ve called you. But it all happened so fast. I hope I’m not fired. I’d love to still work here.”

“Of course, you’re not fired. You’re one of the best employees this library has ever had. I’m just glad you’re safe.” She pulls me into a long hug, and I know right at this moment that Dimitri letting me go was for the best.

DIMITRI

Letting Evie go was the stupidest thing I’ve ever done.

Because now I miss her, and it’s only been a fucking day.

Needing a distraction, I go to Nikolai’s favorite bar and find him in his private booth. There’s nothing better than pissing Nik off.

“I’m sad,” I say, sliding in across from him.

His glass is halfway to his lips. “And you think I care because …”

“Because we’re business partners, Nik. It’s what we do. We can talk about our feelings.”

He snorts and takes a drink. “No. We don’t talk about our feelings. In fact, I’d much prefer for you to not talk about your feelings with me.”

“You’re no fun.”

“I get that a lot.”

“You’re not at all a little bit curious why I’m sad?” I raise my hand for the bartender to get me a drink.

“No.”

“Ouch, Nik.” The bartender brings me a scotch, and I nod my thanks. “The reason I’m sad is because I lost my girl.”

“Your girl? I heard you got married.”

“Yes. I did.”

“Is she dead?” Nik actually sounds concerned. He’s a married man himself, so when it comes to woman, I know he cares more than he lets on.

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