Page 129 of Claim

Hades turns his nose, but remains focused on Mikhail, wandering closer to me and lowers his head.

I give him a scratch behind one of his clipped ears.

What is my husband doing?

“This is an important lesson. Hades is trained to attack on a single command. I’ve been anticipating Ivan, but now I want to know that you’re protected.” He takes my arms, and puts me behind him.

“Watch me closely.” His hand raises and he points towards the stuffed toy. “Hades, mayday, mayday, mayday!”

Hades leaps forward, growling, and pounces on the fuzzy animal.

Within seconds, nothing remains but tufts of stuffing and fabric.

“Abort!” Mikhail grunts as he claps, then turns to me. “Did you see what I did?”

Hades drops on his butt, panting, with chunks of white fuzz still clinging to his dark muzzle.

That poor little hippo didn’t stand a chance.

“Remember, it’s three times before he’ll attack whatever you’re pointing to. He’ll die to protect you, just as I would. Buthe won’t stop until the target looks like that.” He gestures at the spreading mess. “So use him wisely.”

“Maybe I’ll make him do that to your luggage so you stay?” I grumble, letting myself lean against Mikhail’s broad chest.

His chuckle vibrates against my ear. “I’ll be back soon. I’ll feel better knowing you’re here, with him.” He kisses the top of my head.

“Meanwhile, you’re going to be thousands of miles away, withher.” The thought makes me want to scream.

“Stop. I can only handle one crazy woman in my life. Once we get back with Galena, I’m sending them to New York. Frankie already agreed he’d keep an eye on her for me.” Mikhail flicks his wrist to look at his Rolex.

“I’m sorry, iskorka. I have to go.” His warm hands cup my cheeks and he crashes his lips against mine. “I love you both,” he whispers before picking up his bag and walking out the door.

Hades tilts his massive head, and meanders to his water bowl.

He’s pure terror in action, wrapped in a loveable goofy grin when he lolls his tongue.

I’m glad he’s on my side.

CHAPTER 56

MIKHAIL

“I don’t knowif we can trust Drago. Something was off last time. My father knew I was here.” I signal the waiter to bring me another shot.

“There aren't a lot of choices available who have been vetted.” Enzo sighs. “Otherwise, your best bet is to get in and out like you did last time. I just don’t think Ivan will make things easy on you a second time.”

I watch Zoya leaning over the bar to chat with the bartender. Her lips are so close to his ear, I can’t see what she’s saying.

“She’s pushing us to go to the safe house one last time. I guess there’s a few things she wants to pick up that might help Galena once she’s back. We’ll be at the new one within a few hours.” I glance at the door again.

Drago should be here soon.

This is one of the biggest night clubs in the area. Hopefully, it’s public enough that there shouldn’t be any troubles.

He’s impossible to miss when he walks in. He’s nearly as big as I am, maybe bigger, stalking across the room as if he owns the place.

“Welcome back, Mikhail. I’ve heard much has changed since the last time I saw you.” He holds out his hand to shake before he sits. “Congrats on the new wife, and kid on the way. A regular family man now?” He winks, crossing his ankle over his knee to reveal his tattoos extend all the way to his feet.

“You’re well informed, friend.” It makes me nervous how he knows. “Perhaps your eye for detail can help. I need to get back into Ivan’s compound to rescue my sister.”

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