Page 27 of Til Death Do Us Part (Kornilov Bratva Duet 2)

“I guess I also called to gauge your interest in coming to a dinner I’m hosting in a few days,” he says. “For the Irish.”

“Like, a party?”

He hums an assent. “Fedor has allied with the Italians and taken some of my men, so I need to do what I can to strengthen the alliances we already have. I’ve rented out a restaurant and have everything set up. You would just need to go and stand by my side … my beautiful wife.”

There is real tenderness in his voice, and it makes me feel lightheaded. I think that might have been the point.

“You called to gauge my interest or to tell me I need to be there? Because it sounds like this isn’t something I can skip.”

He hesitates and then sighs. “I need you there.”

“So, you’re telling me where I need to be.”

“I’m asking you to … to want to be there with me,” he says, sounding more exhausted than I’ve ever heard. “I know you don’t like these kinds of events. After the loyalty ceremony, I wanted to give you space from those people and that environment, but this is important. The Irish can offer support that will change the outcome of this fight. Plus, it will be delicious food, gowns and suits, and live music. I’ll try my best to make it bearable for you.”

The fact that he cared about my discomfort and sought to separate me from it is heartwarming, but that isn’t the only thing filling my chest. To my surprise, excitement is bubbling up. I want to go.

After our lunch at the diner, I realized I like pretending to be Viktor’s wife. Out in public, in front of other people, even though it is a lie, it is an easy lie. I can let myself lean into him and gaze at the handsome lines of his face and body. At home, I have to distance myself. I have to think constantly about what my next move will be after this war is over and how attached Theo is growing to Viktor. When we are out together, however, I can just be with him. I like that feeling.

“I’ll need a new dress,” I say, biting my lip to keep from openly grinning.

“Done,” Viktor says quickly.

“But I’ll do my own hair.”

He chuckles. “Again, done. Whatever you need, Molly. Tell me, and I’ll make it happen.”

When we hang up, the smile is still teasing the edges of my mouth, and when I turn off the bedside lamp, I finally let it spread across my face. For now, Theo and I are warm and safe, and I have a date planned with my husband. It almost feels perfect.

---