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“I know it’s hard for someone outside our world to understand, but for Luka, and for me, it’s normal. This is in our blood.”
I glance up at the man, bound close to Luka, they could be brothers. He knows him; I see it in the way he speaks to Luka. He is the only Bratva member Luka allows to address him by his first name. Their casual banter paints the picture of friendship and loyalty—a crack in the hard exterior of Luka Morozov.
Nik’s words reel around in my head, and I try to see how growing up this way would impact a child, a teenager, and finally an adult. But I don’t. I cannot see, despite my own harsh realities of childhood. I’m not sure it even compares.
“You’re right. I don’t understand,” I say to Nik.
“He wanted to find you, you know. After that night.”
I freeze, fixed on what Nik will say next.
“He had me put together a small file on the woman from the gas station. He thought you were involved at some level, but watching him those first couple of months after the incident, I knew you plagued him too. Luka Morozov is the best pakhan the Bratva has seen in a long time. He has been through things no one should, even among our people.”
I nod, but Nik shakes his head at me.
“I don’t tell you this for you. I don’t want him questioning his decisions or abilities because you see him as a monster.”
I’m stunned.
I don’t know how to be in this world. The fact my apartment blew up and I’m standing in a hospital room with a man who was also injured in an incident—all these events highly illegal, mind you. And yet, I still can’t come to terms with Luka as a monster.
What is wrong with me?
“I don’t see him that way, and I doubt he would let me have any influence on him.”
Nik’s eyebrows rise, but before he can say anything else, Luka strides back into the room. He looks my way, and I drop my gaze to the ground.
“What were you two talking about?” A sliver of vulnerability weaves through his words, as if he only now realizes I was left alone in the room with Nik.
“Kate was just telling me how much she wants me.” Nik grins.
I choke out a snorted laugh, but Luka smirks at Nik.
“Get better, will you? We have work to do. Oh, and leave the nurses alone. I can’t afford to keep paying for a private wing when you’re trying to sleep with them all.”
* * *
I slide backinto Luka’s car, and a shiver slithers up my spine. My clothes are still damp from the rain, and Nik’s words haunt me. Unease churns in my gut when Luka slides in and fires up the car. I don’t have an apartment to return to.
“If you wouldn’t mind giving me a ride to my mom’s,” I let the thought hang, letting it air out between us.
Luka’s world isn’t for me; I’m sure he has realized this, but deep down, I want to know what he is thinking. Does he want me to stay?
“Are you cold? You’re trembling.” He ignores my words, adjusting the heat on my side of the car, his hand skimming my knee sending a sizzle through my blood.
“It’s from the rain. I’m fine.” I offer a half smile, and he backs out of the parking spot before pinning his eyes on me.
“You enjoy espressos, right?”
* * *
Fifteen minutes later,Luka pulls to the curb of a small coffee shop I’ve never been to. This means it’s expensive, but a small chalkboard sign outside the shop shows it is more rustic than posh. Wiping my hands on my front, I glimpse at him to find he’s already staring at me. A beat passes between us. Nik’s words regarding all Luka experienced spike my curiosity, and I want to ask too many questions. I want to be someone he can trust—a friend. I mentally snort at the last part—friend?
When we walk through the door, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee beans invades my nose. The smell of coffee is almost better than the actual beverage—almost. This shop is nestled right among the bustling city, but the decor offers a true mix of modern with rustic charm. Exposed brick and wooden accents are filled with local artwork, and soft lights focus on the talent.
In the center of the shop, a sleek and polished espresso bar stands out, and baristas are crafting more art than mere coffee.
Luka’s hand brushes over the back of my neck, and he leans down to my ear.
