Page 59 of Sinful Scars

“So, how’s Elle?”

I stiffen at her question.

“How do you know about Elle?”

“My brother-in-law, Mikhail, mentioned about her having a stalker.”

I should have known Lucia would find out and go blabbing to her husband. It’s another reason I need to be more careful around Elle.

If they were to learn of what happened between us the other night, I would be dead within hours. And then who would be around to make sure Elle is safe?

“So?” I pinch the bridge of my nose with my thumb and forefinger. “It could be anyone.”

“A stalker with scarred hands.”

“What are you implying, Nina?”

“I wasn’t sure if it was you or not, but from the way you’re reacting, I’m guessing it is you.”

“Our father was behind her kidnapping. I’ve simply been making sure that she’s safe.”

“As long as that’s all it is.”

“I really should go.”

“There’s something else I wanted to ask you.”

I squeeze my eyes shut. “Go ahead.”

“Alexei and his brothers think that their parents are dead because…” She takes a deep breath, and I brace myself for what she’s about to ask me. “Because of you. Is that true, Lev?”

Her voice is thick with tears, and I grind my teeth as I try to think of how to answer without hurting her more than I already have.

“Honestly? It’s possible.”

“What does that mean?”

“All I know is that I blacked out that night. It wasn’t until years later that Igor informed me of what happened, of what I’d done.”

“Oh…”

“I don’t know what to think anymore. But one thing I do know is that no harm will come to Elle. I promise you that.”

“Are you still having the blackouts?”

My mind fills with the memory of waking up on the side of the interstate, and I cringe.

“I’m taking care of it.”

My hour is almost up, and I need to get back to Elle before she wakes up.

So much for getting some sleep.

“Lev—”

“It’s best you don’t contact me again.”

17

---