Page 236 of Evil Hearts

“Tell me more about your childhood,” she said. “What was it like growing up in Russia?”

“Ah, Russia,” he mused, a nostalgic glint in his expression. “It was a land of perspicacious polarity—harsh winters and warm summers, opulent ballrooms and humble villages. My family was noble, but our lives were far from easy. We faced many challenges, yet we found joy in simple pleasures—music, literature, and the beauty of nature.”

“That sounds wonderful. I’ve always dreamed of visiting such places, experiencing different cultures and histories.”

“One day, I can show you. There is much beauty to be found in the world, and I would love to share it with you.” He smiled. “Tell me about your childhood and upbringing. Did you grow up in Redgold Village?”

She shook her head, a wistful smile playing at the corners of her lips. “Yes, I was born and raised in Redgold Village. But it’s a gilded cage, a world of suffocating expectations and shallow pursuits. and I constantly longed for something more, something real and meaningful. To break free from the confines of my privileged life and discover who I truly am. Even dreaming of the escapades that awaited me beyond the village borders. Society and my parents expect me to follow a certain path—to marry well and uphold the family name. Yet my heart yearns for a different kind of life, one filled with passion and purpose...if that makes sense.”

Dimitri leaned closer, his expression coquettish and intimate. “I know that feeling all too well. And who are you, Amelia Lancaster? Beneath the layers of silk and lace, the polished veneer of a society darling, what does your heart truly desire?”

Her breath caught in her throat. “I...I want to be seen, to be understood for who I am, not just for my family name or the expectations placed upon me. I want to experience the world, to find love and adventure on my own terms. I believe that true happiness lies in following one’s heart, no matter the obstacles or consequences.”

“Then let me be the one to show you,” he said, his fingertips grazing the delicate skin of her wrist. “Let me be your guide. Thus, what does your heart tell you now, Amelia?”

Amelia’s pulse galloped, her skin tingling where he touched her. “It tells me that I’m exactly where I’m meant to be, here with you.”

“Good,” Dimitri said, his voice a fierce whisper in the moonlit garden. “Then let us explore each other further, lyubimaya. Tell me about your childhood in Redgold Village.”

“Redgold is charming,” Amelia said, her gaze reflecting the twinkle of distant stars. “It’s a place where everyone knows everyone else’s business. I grew up with five older siblings, always competing for attention but also fiercely protective of one another. My parents...well, they were more concerned with maintaining appearances than nurturing dreams.”

“Quite the lively household. In Russia, my family was smaller but no less complicated. The winters were harsh, and we found amiability in our traditions—feasts, music, and stories passed down through generations.”

“That sounds lovely. I’ve always been fascinated by different cultures. What kind of traditions did you have?”

“Ah, many,” he said, his accent thickening as he delved into memories. “One of my favorites was the winter solstice festival. We would light candles to ward off the darkness and feast until dawn. There was dancing, laughter, and a sense of unity that I’ve not felt in many years.”

“That sounds magical,” Amelia said, her hand instinctively reaching for his. “In Redgold Village, we have the Harvest Festival. It’s simpler but filled with joy—hayrides, apple cider, and everyone coming together to celebrate the season’s bounty.”

Dimitri’s thumb caressed the back of her hand. “It seems we both come from places where community is cherished. Yet here we are, finding a friendship in the most unlikely of places.”

“Isn’t it strange?” Amelia smiled tenderly, her expression soft. “Two people from such different worlds, yet there’s a kinship between us.”

“It was inevitable. Fated some might say. Some relationships transcend time and place, lyubimaya.”

They walked in silence for a moment, the perfume of night-blooming flowers enveloping them. They approached the gates at the edge of the garden, and Dimitri stopped and turned to face her.

“Amelia, would you like to come inside? To my bedroom?”

Her body froze, a flow of excitement and trepidation flooding her senses. She could feel the heat radiating from his body, the promise of passion in his heated stare. Her head was crowded with images of what could be, the feel of his hands on her skin, the taste of his lips on hers.

“I want to,” she admitted. “But it’s too soon.”

“Understandable. No pressure.” Dimitri stepped closer. “When you are ready, you know where to find me,” he whispered, his lips brushing her temple in a tender kiss.

Once they parted ways at the gate, Amelia’s heart was aching with a longing she had never known before. She wanted more—more of him, more of this newfound connection, more of everything that Dimitri represented.

Chapter Four

Amelia adjusted thesilk of her dress as she stepped into the opulent dining room of Shadowfield Manor. Crystal chandeliers shone on a long mahogany table adorned with silver candelabras and delicate porcelain plates. Heavy velvet drapes framed tall, gothic windows, lending an air of mystery to the space.

“Please, have a seat. I’m so pleased you agreed to join me for dinner.” He pulled out a chair for her, his touch lingering on her shoulder just a moment longer than necessary.

“I was delighted by your invitation,” Amelia replied, and then she sat down and took in the sumptuous feast before her. The aroma of roasted lamb, seasoned with rosemary and garlic, mingled with the mouthwatering whiff of red wine. Her stomach growled in anticipation.

“How did you manage all this?” She smiled, lifting her glass of wine to her lips and taking a sip. The liquid was bold and complex, coating her tongue with notes of dark berries and a hint of oak.

“Henry helped me cook,” Dimitri said, settling across from her. His stare never left hers. “One learns to appreciate the finer things when one has...loads of extra time.”

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