Page 52 of Working Out West

He winced. “I have something else to confess.”

Oh.

“What?” I asked softly.

He took a breath and released my hand. I missed the contact instantly, which wasn’t good, as in the end, I’d have to push him away.

He leaned back once more and glanced to the door. “I had a man watching you.”

My stomach dropped. “Why?”

He met my gaze. “That is for another time. But know it was in your best interest.”

“Adrik, you can tell me now.”

“Nyet, your food and drink will be here soon, and you are not ready.”

Not ready?

I didn’t understand.

“I will be staying in this house,” he announced instead, which threw me from any other thoughts.

“Why?”

He smirked. “Because.”

“Because? That’s all you’re going to say?”

“For now.” He stood, bending, and I closed my eyes when I felt his lips press into my temple. “Rest, moya lyubov’.”

“What doesthatmean?”

He pulled back a little. “Moya lyubov’?”

“Yes.”

His hand slid over my hair. “One day, I will tell you. But you need rest to heal. If you need me, I will not be far.” He straightened and started for the door.

“Adrik?” I called.

“Da?”

“Thank you… for saving me.”

“I will always save you, West. From anything.”

I felt he meant more by that, but I couldn’t work out what. He opened the door, and I heard Lucas’s squeak. “Hello… um, you’re leaving?”

“Is there a room I can take as my own?”

“Yes, of course. One right next door to here.”

“Thank you.”

“You’re welcome.” Lucas moved into the room, and I listened to the door close once more as Lucas stopped at my side. He set a tray on the bedside table. “I brought soup and a straw, so you won’t have to move much to drink it.” He sat on the chair. “How did that go?”

“Confusingly.”

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