Page 53 of The Hermit

My tongue darts out to wet my lips, and my mind races until I finally manage to think of something to ask. “Why did you only demand fifty percent of my father’s business?”

“I was in a good mood, but after he slapped you yesterday, that changed. I’m now taking everything.”

My eyes widen. “Because he slapped me?”

Dominik just nods.

He saved my life. Twice.

He insisted on marrying me instead of Ciara.

He shot Dad for slapping me.

He gave me my own bedroom instead of forcing me to share his bed.

He’s assured me, again and again, that he won’t hurt me.

He’s patient with me.

My heart begins to beat faster, and caution trickles into my voice as I ask, “Do you like me?”

Without hesitation, he answers, “Yes.” The corner of his mouth lifts. “But that’s not what you’re really asking.”

No, it’s not.

Nerves spin in my stomach as I whisper, “Are you attracted to me?”

The expression on his face softens even more before he says, “Yes. I’m very attracted to you, Grace. You’re a beautiful woman with one hell of a temper who isn’t scared to fight for the ones she loves.” His smile turns affectionate, making my heart hammer against my ribs. “I had no interest in any kind of romantic relationship until I watched you protect your sister with a fierceness that earned my respect.”

My palms feel sweaty, and my breaths are coming too fast as I stare at Dominik.

Slowly, he shakes his head. “Don’t be scared, Grace. My attraction to you isn’t something you need to fear.”

When he steps closer to me, my entire body flinches, and I have to force myself not to backpeddle.

His movements are slow, as if he’s approaching a wild animal or baby deer. With my eyes locked on his, I struggle to control my breathing as he lifts his arm, wrapping his fingers around the back of my neck.

I’m trembling like a leaf in a shitstorm, and it’s becoming near impossible to keep still.

“You’re safe,milácik,” he whispers.

Gently, he presses my face to his chest before his other arm wraps around me. It takes a few panicked seconds before I realize he’s hugging me.

His hand begins to rub up and down my back, and it’s so soothing my eyes drift shut.

I suck in a deep breath, smelling his cologne that mixes with his natural scent. Just like the night when he saved me from the Russians, I feel safe.

Whispering, I ask, “What did you call me?”

His voice rumbles above my head. “The Slovak equivalent to sweetheart.”

Liking the term of endearment, the corner of my mouth slightly curves up before the smile fades away.

With my hands fisted by my sides, my voice is hoarse as I ask, “Can I really trust you, or is this just a ploy to get me to let my guard down?”

Dominik pulls slightly away from me, and when he takes hold of my chin and tips my head back, my heart’s a thundering mess in my chest.

“You won’t believe anything I say, and that’s okay. Let me show you I can be trusted.”

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