Page 130 of Claim

Drago’s blue eyes widen. “Lara? She seems very capable. I haven’t heard from Alexei?—”

“No, my littlest, Galena.” I nod towards Zoya who approaches us.

Drago’s leg falls, flattening his shoe against the floor with a thump. “Tatiana! I didn’t—” His head tilts. “My apologies, I mistook you for someone else.”

Interesting.

Drago’s easy smile covers his mistake as he takes her palm and brings the back of her fingers to his mouth. “A pleasure.”

“Thank you. Are you here to help me get my daughter back?” Zoya sits close enough to me that her knee brushes my thigh.

Drago squints at me before smiling. “I’ll do my best. Ivan is a formidable foe, but I assure you, I’ll do everything I can to help.”

Every time my father’s name is mentioned, the hidden scar on my face itches.

“I’ll owe you for this one.” I know he can’t see it, but my jaw clenches.

Going into debt, in our line of work, is never something I like to do.

Drago grins and leans closer. “I like the sound of that.”

“This calls for a drink.” I raise my arm to the waiter. “Bring us a round.” I circle the table with my finger in the air.

When the glasses appear, I hold mine up to Drago. “Here’s to new friends.” I swallow the burning liquor.

Standing, I notice Zoya’s drink sits untouched. “Not thirsty?” I herd her towards the exit.

“Not really in the mood for alcohol.” She dabs her eyes. “I miss my daughter so much.”

“Don’t worry, we’ll get her back.” The drive to the safehouse is short.

Which is good, because the effect of the bourbon is hitting me stronger than I expected.

I guess married life is making me a bit of a lightweight.

“Wait here.” Zoya points towards the couch. “I just have a few things to get from Galena’s room, and then we can go.”

Fuck, this seat is comfortable. I sink into the thick cushions.

My eyes are so heavy, I’ll just close them for a moment.

CHAPTER 57

ANASTASIA

The house isempty and quiet, except for Hades snoring on the floor nearby. His presence is comforting, especially now that I know he could take care of any threat that might come near me.

I’m lost without Miki and I am petrified. Something doesn’t sit right with me. My gut is screaming that something is wrong.

Zoya tried so many ways to get between me and Miki. Did the pregnancy tip her over the edge?

I can see in her eyes, she isn’t stable.

The more my thoughts spiral, the more I debate phoning Lara. She might understand.

It startles me from my tea when my phone rings.

“Ana, this is Enzo. There’s something odd about the feed from Zoya’s house. Do you feel up to a field trip? I won’t be able to make it that way for a few hours.”

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