Page 106 of Heritage of Fire

I nod, eyes moving to Luka, who tucks both hands in his pants pockets.

“Because we have the element of surprise, I think we should give our men the best advantage we can by keeping the power on. If we cut it, any front entrance security will be alerted earlier than we want them to.”

I nod once more, enjoying the ease in which I can speak with Matteo versus his boss.

We continue to talk about the raid until the sun climbs in the sky and hangs directly over the city. With Matteo and I as leads of each organization’s team, I’m anticipating a strong strike, though I can’t help it when my thoughts pivot to Luna being left alone if something happens to me.

When Matteo leaves, Luka sinks back in his chair, a glass of vodka pressed to his head. His eyes harden on me. “Want a drink?”

“Nyet, I’m good. I want to have a clear mind going home tonight and into tomorrow’s prep.”

Luka nods and swivels around to face the large windows looking out over the city’s expanse. He lets out a long sigh, one I didn’t realize Luka was capable of letting loose. The weight of this strike is clearly weighing on him.

“I wish I could go with you, Nikolai.”

His words float out between us, and I know that, in this moment, the last thing he needs is teasing or a sarcastic quip. So, instead, all I say is, “I know, Pakhan.”

He rotates back around and lifts his chin to offer me a smile before tossing back the rest of his drink. “Kate’s nervous for you,” he says, grabbing his phone and then standing. “I’m sure Luna is as well.”

I shrug, smirking at Luka. Deep down, my stomach churns. I haven’t told Luna about the raid yet—and I’m not sure I will.

Suddenly uncomfortable, I stand, ready to head home so I can be back early tomorrow with our men to prepare. “I’ll see you in the morning,” I say, scooting to the door.

“Get some sleep, Nik.” Luka gives me a pointed look and I roll my eyes.

My grin disappears as soon as I’ve closed the door behind me. I doubt I’ll be getting any rest tonight.

I pull into the warehouse driveway exhausted and pissed off. Meeting Frank inside, we have a brief discussion concerning his duty to Luna tomorrow. Then I head up the stairs—but stop midway.

The smell of spices invades my nose, and my mouth waters. I jog up the stairs and open the door to see Luna dancing aroundthe kitchen. She’s floating between the stove and the island, hair pulled back into a ponytail, with small wisps falling around her face.

Her demeanor has been up and down these past few weeks since her capture. Between the nightmares and worrying over her missing sister, it’s rare to see her enjoying herself.

Watching her in this place, with me, is heart wrenchingly wonderful. How could there have ever been a time when I didn’t want her?

“Oh, hey!” Luna steps back from the salad she’s putting together and wipes her hands on her light-washed jeans.

“Hey.” I smile. “Whatcha doing?” I advance to her, the need to wrap her ponytail around my hand demanding.

“Don’t panic, but I’m making dinner.” She gives me a wide grin when I finally get to her. I tilt her chin up with my thumb and index finger. Her lips part, and I take the opportunity to meet her mouth with mine. The slow graze of her lips sends shivers down my spine. Angling her mouth just right, I tangle my hand in her hair. She sways into my kiss, and warmth squeezes my chest.

She’s perfect.

I pull away, smiling at her. Her eyes are wide and slightly glazed, and her face is still tilted like she doesn’t want the kiss to be over.

“What are you attempting to cook?” I ask, moving around her to lift the top off a stock pot on the stove.

“Spaghetti and meatballs. I’m starting small.”

Luna places her hands on her hips, a look of determination flashing in her eyes before she goes to the oven to check on the meatballs. The deliciousness wafts through the kitchen, and I groan at the idea of a home cooked meal.

“It smells great. Let me change, and I can help you.” I jog out of the kitchen and run to throw on some sweatpants and a t-shirt.

A small black bag sits on the bed, and it captures my attention. The name, written in white script on the outside, is unfamiliar to me, and while I know I shouldn’t snoop, curiosity gets the better of me.

Pulling aside pink tissue paper, I’m met with aqua-blue lace. I pause, bringing my fist to my mouth. I should stop, but I can’t. I yank out the lingerie and hold it up between my hands. Silk and lace slip through my fingers and onto the bed. I dive, snatching the nightwear back to admire it.

Throwing the lingerie dress over my shoulder, I make my way back to the kitchen and sit at the island. Watching Luna toss meatballs into a pan with sauce, I wait for her to notice me.

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