“As much as I want to stay, I can’t.”
I pout my lower lip out, and he moves fast, sucking it into his mouth. He nibbles for a second before dropping it. “Don’t tempt me, firefly.”
“But it’s so fun.” I bat my lashes seductively at him.
“I know, but I’m having some issues on the work front.” He pulls back and meets my gaze.
Tiny lines have formed on his face.
Something is bothering him, and my mind goes straight to Roman.
“What’s going on? Is there something about my brother that you’re not telling me?”
Gideon lets out a sigh, his hand lifting to tug on his now-tousled hair.
“I think you should stay in your old room today and practice.”
“Is that an order?” I say, instantly on edge.
He shakes his head. “More of a very pointed request.”
I want to argue, but I can tell it’s not a good day for that.
“Some unsavory characters will be coming to the house for a big meeting. I tried to move it elsewhere, but I needed the security and all my men. You need to lie low and stay out of sight.”
My heart starts pounding inside my chest as fear creeps in, like a flock of birds descending from the sky. My mind races with questions.
What’s about to happen?
Am I in danger?Is he?
Will whoever’s looking for me find me?
His hand reaches out, pulling me into his arms and engulfing me in warmth. “I promise you’re safe.” When I don’t speak, he pulls back, his fingers meeting my jaw and tilting my face up. “I always keep my word. You know that, right?” I nod. “As long as you stay out of sight, you’ll be fine. I just need you to listen. Can you do that?”
“I can.”
He offers a tight smile. One that does not reach his eyes. “That’s my good girl.”
And just like Gideon always does, with one word, one praise, all my fears are evaporated, replaced by only something he can give me—peace.
41
SASHA
Two days.
That’s how long Gideon has sequestered me in this room.
“Am I ever going to get out of here?” I glare at my only companion.
The blue light mocks me.
Someone’s watching.
Hopefully Gideon.
“I feel like a caged bird.”