Page 78 of Claimed By Desire

Natalya

Isleep better than I have in a long time that night. When I wake up, he’s there by my side, and he’s looking at me like she’s been watching me for a while. I smile at him and a strange feeling rushes over me.

There’s something about him watching me—about him looking at me and reallyseeingme—that’s insanely intoxicating.

It’s not just the cameras. It’s what he told me last night about wanting me for years but never letting himself take that step.

I understand why he held back. Alex defines himself by the Bratva. Everything he is as a man is wrapped up in his loyalty to my father.

Sleeping with me, crossing that line, that would’ve ruined him.

But now, we’re too far gone, and it’s like he’s finally revealing himself to me.

He’s deeply, deeply obsessed, and I really like it.

“How long have you been staring at me like that?” I ask him as I stretch.

“Too long,” he admits. “I should get up.”

“You don’t have to. You can stay, if you want.” I smile a little and casually pull my shirt off.

His gaze sharpens. “What are you doing?”

“I was warm. I’m just getting more comfortable.”

I try to smother my smile as he licks his lips. God, yes, that’s the stare I like. He’s looking at me like he can’t control himself.

Like he couldn’t look away, even if his Pakhan commanded him.

I like that I have power over him, but mostly I like that he wantsme.

Unfortunately, before anything can progress, my morning sickness catches up with me again and I spend an hour hugging the toilet.

He tries to help but there’s not much he can do besides leave me some crackers and water. I suffer through the nausea and eventually it passes. I drink, eat a little bit, and take a long, hot shower.

By the time I’m done, he’s standing in our room. Sweat covers his brow and he seems slightly out of breath, but he’s still wearing the same sweats and t-shirt from earlier.

“Did you go for a run?” I ask, getting dressed. He watches my every move.

“I have a surprise for you.”

“Really?” I face him, eyebrows arching. “Does it involve sex by the pool? Because I just got done puking and I’m honestly feeling about as sexy as a rusty nail.”

“No, baby, it isn’t sex by the pool. But I think you’ll like it almost as much.”

That’s got me interested. I finish putting on clothes and follow him back out into the living room. He faces me and gestures behind him, and at first, I’m not sure what he’s talking about.

Then I see it.

“You didn’t,” I say, taking a step forward.

“It wasn’t easy getting in here, but you’d be surprised what money can accomplish.”

I walk slowly over to the upright piano, the same piano from Patricia’s shop. I run my fingers along the edges and lower myself down onto the bench.

Tears threaten to spill down my cheeks.

I’ve missed thisso much.

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