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Not thinking, I rest my arm on the back of her chair. My fingers gently caress her shoulder, the touch increasing the attraction I feel for her tenfold.
“A little water never killed anyone,” I murmur.
A light blush forms on her cheeks, and I take it as a win when she doesn’t look uncomfortable or try to pull away from me.
Misha and Aurora get up and walk to the middle of the dance floor. When the opening notes to A Thousand Years by Christina Perri start to play, I move my arm from behind Tiana and take hold of her hand. Her fingers feel so fucking delicate in my hand, it makes a wave of protectiveness crash through my chest.
I wait until the first chorus starts, then rise to my feet. Alek leads Abbie to the dance floor, and I smile when I think of the weird friendship that’s formed between them. A while back, I thought there was a possibility they’d try to kill each other.
Reaching the dance floor, I pull Tiana into my arms, and I’m not surprised at all when she fits perfectly against my chest.
I smile down at the nervous expression on her beautiful face, and holding her tighter, so I have control over her body, I take the first step.
As I lead her across the floor, and she doesn’t stumble over her feet, a smile starts to spread on her face until it looks like the sun just rose in her eyes.
I’m so lost in the girl in my arms that I don’t notice the song ending and the next beginning.
Tiana’s eyes lock with mine, and for a moment, there’s no nervousness to be seen on her face.
So this is what she looks like when she’s happy.
As the song ends, I slow my steps until we’re standing still. “See, you can dance.”
She lets out a chuckle. “No, you’re just good at leading.”
Someone clears their throat behind me, and when I look over my shoulder, I see Viktor.
“May I cut in?” he asks.
Reluctantly I let go of Tiana and step back. “Of course, sir.”
Viktor might not be my boss, but he’s best friends with Luca, so I have to obey him. Luca also married Mariya Koslov, who’s like a sister to Viktor. The ties between the bratva and the mafia run deep, and none of the soldiers would dare do anything to risk it.
I hate the fear tightening Tiana’s features, but knowing Viktor won’t hurt her, I force myself to walk away.
I head for the bar and order a tumbler of whiskey. While sipping on the drink, I watch as Tiana stumbles over her feet.
Christ, she looks uncomfortable.
“You look good together,” Misha suddenly says.
The corner of my mouth lifts. “Let’s hope Luca and Viktor feel the same way. If we don’t get our bosses' approvals, there’s nothing we can do short of me kidnapping your sister.”
Misha lets out a chuckle. “I’m sure they’ll give their blessings. It will solidify the ties between the bratva and the mafia.”
“How do you think Tiana will handle the news of the arranged marriage with me?”
Misha’s eyes meet mine. “It will take her time to adjust, but I think she’ll be happy with my choice of husband for her.”
I hope he’s right.
Misha’s expression grows serious as he leans closer so our conversation will be private. “Just take it slow with Tiana. Once she’s comfortable with you, your patience will be rewarded.”
Wanting to set Misha at ease, I reply, “It’s a reward just looking at her, brother. Tiana will be safe with me.”
“I know.” A grin tugs at the corner of his mouth. “That’s why I chose you.” His eyes settle on his sister, and emotion washes over his features. “All she’s ever wanted was a home to call her own. She never felt like she fit in anywhere, and our time in the orphanage left her scarred.” His eyes swing back to meet mine. “I just want my sister to be happy.”
Lifting my arm, I squeeze Misha’s shoulder. “I’ll do everything in my power to make that happen.”
The song ends, and the second Viktor lets go of Tiana, she makes a beeline for us. Her face is ghostly pale, as if she’s a second away from passing out.
I glance at the bartender. “A glass of rosé, please.”
She’s visibly trembling when she comes to stand between us. “Your boss is going to give me an anxiety attack,” she complains to Misha.
“Relax. Viktor won’t hurt you. The Vetrovs don’t prey on women,” Misha assures her.
“He still terrifies me.”
When the bartender sets the glass of wine down, I take hold of it and hand it to Tiana. “It will calm your nerves.”
“Thank you,” she breathes before taking a couple of sips.
“I’m heading back to Aurora,” Misha announces.
Wanting to make Tiana feel safe, I rub my hand up and down her back. “Do you want to take a walk?”
