Page 21 of Imperfect Desires

I swallow hard, my throat burning. “It’s Lev.”

Yelena’s expression sharpens instantly. “What about Lev?”

I drop my gaze to the floor. My hands clench and unclench at my sides. “I… I think I have feelings for him.”

The words feel too big now that they’re out. Too dangerous.

Yelena’s hand tightens on my shoulder. “And?”

My jaw clenches. I can still feel the heat of Lev’s mouth against mine, the strength of his hands as they curled around my waist before he shoved me away.

“He doesn’t feel the same way.” My voice sounds flat and defeated.

Yelena’s gaze hardens. “Did he say that?”

“Not in these exact words.”

The silence between us stretches painfully. I don’t say more. I don’t tell her about the kiss—or how Lev’s hand slid against my hip. The way his breath hitched before he pulled away like he’d been burned.

Yelena’s jaw tightens. “Did he lead you on?”

I shake my head quickly. “No. It’s not like that.”

Yelena’s mouth presses into a thin line, and her arms fold across her chest, indicating she is waiting for me to carry on.

I hesitate. “Because I’m Viktor’s sister.”

Yelena’s eyes darken. She already understands.

“If he touched you—”

“He didn’t,” I interrupt quickly. “Says I’m too young, even if I wasn’t Viktor’s sister.”

Yelena’s lips curl slightly. “That’s the problem, isn’t it?”

My breath shudders.

Yelena’s hand slides down my arm and closes around my wrist. “Don’t let his rejection bother you. Lev’s the fool for not seeing what a beautiful soul you are.”

I laugh weakly. “I wish that made me feel better.”

Yelena’s gaze softens, and I see pity in her eyes. “This is dangerous, Alina. Even if he does feel something for you, you know he can’t act on it.”

“I know,” I say quietly.

“Because it would cost him his life. Papa will have him tortured and executed.”

My chest tightens painfully. “I know,” I whisper.

Yelena brushes her thumb over my wrist. “Maybe it’s for the best.”

I nod, even though it feels like my heart is splitting down the middle.

“Maybe…” I swallow hard. “Maybe our time here will cure me of this infatuation.”

Yelena’s lips twitch slightly. “Infatuation?”

“What else could it be?” My voice is steady, but my heart clenches painfully.

---