Page 190 of Ruins
Chapter 37
Santo
I’vemadeamessof everything.
Her face when she said I only tolerated her, it gutted me. The shock in her eyes when I told her I loved her, it will haunt me.
I can do this. I can push Scythe away, keep that part of my life separate from this side of my life. I can bask in her light and keep her far from the shadows of my darkness.
I can do this.
In the guest room I change into my dark jeans and pull on a light gray t-shirt, the soft fabric feels cool against my skin. I reach for my brown leather jacket in the closet, the familiar weight of it settling comfortably on my shoulders. I lace up my sturdy boots, ready to take Vasilisa for a ride.
I wait for her in the kitchen where Mrs. Keen gives me a weary glance.
“Is everything alright?” she asks concerned.
“Yes, I was wrong, just as you suggested,” I admit. “I’m going to take her for a ride.”
Mrs. Keen’s eyes crinkle with a soft smile. “That is an excellent idea.”
“I need a favor.”
“Anything.”
“Have the staff move my belongings back into the master bedroom and then everyone has to leave.”
Her head rears back, her eyes blink many times before she utters, “Leave?”
“Yes, I need time with my wife.Alone.”
Mrs. Keen bursts into a wide smile, “We’ll be gone before you return.”
Before I can say anything more Vasilisa walks in wearing fitted jeans that hugs her form just right, paired with ankle boots that add a hint of height just how she likes it. Her lightweight knit top drapes elegantly over her, with a soft texture that catches the light. Over her arm, she carries a leather jacket and once again I’m breathless at her beauty.
Her eyes soften when they meet mine. “You look handsome,” she mutters unsurely.
“Thank you, you look breathtaking as always,” I compliment taking her hand and pressing a kiss to her knuckles enjoying the blush that creeps on to her cheeks.
She tugs at her hand, but I hold it instead, lacing her fingers with mine, she narrows her eyes playfully, “So, what’s the plan for today that required pants?”
“We’re going for a ride,” I grin and escort her in to the pantry—to the elevator. I pull out my phone and set up access.
“Give me your finger,” I say, lifting our intertwined hands.
I guide her hand to the biometric scanner disguised as a simple silver call button, placing her finger on it. It beeps twice and I reluctantly release her hand.
“Now you can use the elevator whenever you like. Just press your finger on the button and choose a floor,” I explain stepping inside with her.
Her eyes widen in surprise. “How far does it go?”
“To the roof,” I reply with a smirk, pushing the basement button to start our descend.
“So...”
“Basement, kitchen, bedroom, library and roof,” I explain with a chuckle.
“I walk up and down stairs every day for nothing,” she playfully bumps me with her shoulder.
