Page 64 of Imperfect Desires

“It’s okay.”

“It’s not,” he repeats. His mouth twists. “I’ve been an ass.”

I laugh softly despite the tears sliding down my cheeks. “Yeah, you have.”

Viktor’s mouth curves faintly. Then the smile fades.

His expression remains unchanged. His dark eyes scan me, noting the dampness on my cheeks and the tremor in my hands. A muscle in his jaw tenses. “You’ve been this sick for two weeks?”

“I can handle it,” I say quietly.

His gaze sharpens. “Clearly.”

I drop my eyes to the floor. “It’s my punishment, right?” I whisper.

Viktor’s brows draw together.

“For getting pregnant. For embarrassing you. For ruining everything.” My breath shudders.

Viktor steps closer. His large hands cup my face, lifting my chin until my eyes meet his. His expression is unreadable—but his gaze is soft. Too soft.

“You think this is punishment?” he asks quietly.

My throat tightens. “Isn’t it?”

His hands slide down to my shoulders. He pulls me against his chest, his arms wrapping tightly around me.

I stiffen.

And then I melt.

The tension in my chest cracks open as I press my face against his shoulder. His warmth seeps into me, grounding me.

“I’m sorry,” he says quietly.

My breath falters.

“I didn’t realize…” His voice trails off. He pulls back slightly, his gaze dark with something I don’t quite understand. “I’ve been so focused on Lev… On my own anger.” His hands tighten on my shoulders. “I didn’t see what you were going through.”

Tears burn behind my eyes.

“I didn’t mean to bring shame on you,” I whisper. “I didn’t mean for this to happen.”

Viktor’s thumb brushes a tear from my cheek.

“I’ve been a bitch of a big brother,” he says simply.

A watery laugh escapes me.

“I let the pain of Lev’s betrayal cloud my judgment,” he admits. “But this… This is not your fault.”

I shake my head. “I’m willing to leave. If it will make things easier for you”

“No.” His voice sharpens. “You’re not leaving.”

My breath catches.

“You’re my sister. My blood. No one will dare breathe a word.” His gaze darkens. “And if Lev thinks he can walk away from this—”

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