Page 83 of Stalk Me

“Because your grandfather wants to marry you off to cement an alliance. And I don’t share.” I press my forehead to hers.

“I’ve made it clear that’s not happening,” Sofia says, her eyes blazing with that familiar fire I love. “Mario can suggest alliances all he wants, but I choose who I end up with. Even if that person happens to be Russian.”

I tighten my grip on her, searching her face for any hint of deception. “Your grandfather is not a man who takes no for an answer,malishka. The Castellanos have maintained power through strategic marriages for generations.”

“Then he’ll have to adapt.” She lifts her chin, defiant even in my hold. “I’m not some pawn to be traded. He’s learning that quickly.”

“And when he pushes?” I press closer, my body caging hers against the wall. “When he brings suitable Italian candidates to your door?”

“Then I’ll remind him that his granddaughter has inherited more than just his eyes.” A small smirk plays on her lips. “I can be quite persuasive when needed.”

That flash of backbone in her voice awakens the predator in me. This is my Sofia—the perfect blend of grace and power. But doubt still gnaws at me.

“Are you going to kiss me or just stare?” Sofia’s challenge catches me off guard. That fire in her eyes, the slight tilt of her chin—she’s grown bolder in our time apart.

I crush my mouth to hers, drinking in her gasp of surprise. She tastes like expensive wine and defiance. My fingers thread through her hair.

“Daddy’s missed you,malishka,” I growl against her skin. The shiver that runs through her body ignites my blood.

Her hands slide under my jacket. “Show me how much.”

I press her harder against the wall, grinding my hips into hers as I claim her mouth again. Her legs wrap around my waist, and I support her weight easily with one hand while the other works at the zipper of her dress.

“You’ve gotten bold,” I murmur, biting her lower lip. “I like it.”

“Brother,” Alexi’s voice crackles in my earpiece, amusement clear in his tone. “Just a reminder that we have eyes on the situation. Though I’m sure Erik would appreciate some... tactical insights.”

I growl in frustration, but Sofia’s already noticed my slight hesitation. “What’s wrong?”

“My brothers and team are watching,” I explain, resting my forehead against hers. “And my brother is being particularly annoying about it.”

She laughs, the sound both wicked and delighted. “Then let’s give them a show worth watching.”

“Fuck,” I growl, even as my cock hardens at her words. “While that’s hot as hell,malishka, I’m not sharing you with anyone. Not even my brothers.”

I tap my earpiece. “Going dark. Do not disturb unless the building’s on fire.”

“But Nik—” Alexi’s protest cuts off as I disable the comms.

Sofia’s eyes dance with mischief as I stalk to the windows. I yank the heavy curtains closed and flash my middle finger through the gap before they shut completely. Let them stew.

When I turn back, Sofia’s pressed against the wall, chest heaving, lips parted. Mine. All mine.

“Now, where were we?” I close the distance in two strides, caging her with my arms. “Ah, yes. You were being very, very naughty.”

Her breath catches as I descend on her, claiming her mouth with bruising force. She tastes like wine and defiance, and I can’t get enough. My hands slide down her sides, gripping her hips to pull her against me.

“Nikolai,” she gasps as I trail bites down her neck.

A growl from my chest rumbles against her delicate skin. “Say it again.”

“Nikolai.” Her voice hitches as my teeth close over that sweet spot below her ear. She shudders, her fingers curling against my shoulders. “I’ve missed this. Missed you.”

My blood roars in my veins, and my grip on her tightens. “Say you’re mine,malishka.”

“Yours,” she breathes, and I feel the word against my skin like a promise.

The need to claim her, to brand her as mine, consumes me. I lift her easily, my hands under her thighs, and she wraps her legs around my waist. Her dress rides up, revealing those long, artistic fingers digging into my back. Her hot breath fans over my ear, her soft breasts pressed against my chest. I carry her to the bed, lowering her onto the silk sheets.

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