Page 49 of Fall into Savagery

Leo was … dead.

My body trembled, and I could feel another sob clawing its way up my throat.

“It’s okay, princess. I got you, I got you.” Then I felt Nikolay shift before he spoke again. “We should head out.” I didn’t know if he was talking to Damien or Mikhail.

But they must have responded because the next thing I knew, Nikolay carried me up in his arms, and we were walking out of there.

He stopped when he was halfway out. “We won’t forget this,” Nikolay said. “The Bratva owes you.”

“Good. We’ll be in contact. Just … take care of her for me,” Francisco said softly. I knew he was close by, but I didn’t think I could just pull away from Nikolay to look at him. I wanted to shut the world out, even if it was just for a little while longer.

Just a little while longer.

Nikolay didn’t respond as he walked out of there. He brought me to his car and climbed in, placing me in the back before he hopped in the middle.

Moments later, Damien came in, followed by Mikhail.

Damien sat with me in the back, wrapping his arms tightly around my body and pulling me close. I tried to stop him.

“You’re hurt,” I said, in the way of explanation, pushing away.

He shushed me and brought me back into his arms.

I rested my head on his chest and closed my eyes, relaxing against him as tears fell, hitting his skin. Someone placed a blanket over us.

It was hot outside, but I felt bone cold on the inside. I was grateful for the blanket.

It didn’t take long for Kirill to climb in the car and start it.

And then, we were off.

On our way home. With everyone.

Finally.

14

CATALINA

We came backto the penthouse late at night.

I didn’t know what time it was and didn’t care because I had Damien right by my side.

The elevator ride was long, and all I could do was look at our reflection on the elevator doors.

Both Nikolay and Mikhail looked tired and triumphed, while Damien just looked tired, though his eyes remained focused on me.

As for me, I didn’t know how I looked.

I was so happy and relieved, my knees were weak from the emotions.

The only thing holding me up right now was the words both Mikhail and Nikolay had said to me before.

I needed to be strong.

I couldn’t break down.

Not yet.

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