Page 104 of Beautiful Deception

Of course, I can’t tell him that I know.

“Where were you?” I demand.

“Business,” he responds curtly. “Are you all right? You seem upset.”

“I am upset, Viktor. I missed you today. We just got married and you’re already off on business. How is that fair?”

“I know. I’m sorry. But my work is important. You knew this when you married me.”

“What happened? At work today?”

He hesitates before he gives me a peck on the cheek. “Nothing. Just the usual.”

I know he’s lying. But I’m not one to judge since I’m still lying to him about who I really am.

“I needed you today,” I whisper.

“Why?”

I nod towards my stained dress. “Natasha happened.”

Viktor’s entire demeanor changes. “That bitch. What did she do to you?”

“She threw hot coffee on me. I went to a café and she was there. It hurt me, Viktor.”

“You didn’t want me to kill her, remember?”

“Because I don’t believe killing is the answer. All I needed was you today and you weren’t here.”

“I’m here now.” He cups my face. “I’m here now, sweetheart.”

“We just got married yesterday. Be honest with me. What did you do today?”

“Why do you think I’m lying?”

I sigh. “I know you well enough to know that you’re a prideful man. Those… men came to our wedding yesterday. Did something happen today?”

He pulls away from me and the space instantly makes me cold. “Something did. But you don’t need to know about it. It’s not for your ears.”

“I’m your wife. Shouldn’t I know?”

“It’s because you’re my wife that I’m trying to protect you.”

“Just tell me. I want to know.”

“Fine! I went after Erik and Dante. I tried to kill them and it didn’t end well.”

I gasp. I didn’t think he’d actually tell me. “Viktor…”

“I didn’t want you to know because… because I didn’t want you to be ashamed of me. I know you don’t believe in killing as the answer.”

“I just want…you. I was so scared because of what Natasha did to me that I just wanted you.”

“You have me.” He wraps his arms around my waist and picks me up. “You have me, Inessa.”

Our lips collide in a passionate kiss. We walk past Mrs. Green, who knows to get out of the way, and go to Viktor’s bedroom. Well, our bedroom now.

“I just want you to make me feel safe,” I whisper against his lips.

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