Page 187 of Bride By Coronation

My chest tightens and my heart pounds.

Valentina puts her hand on my bicep. "Kirill, let's go sit down. Please."

"Just tell me where my wife is," I say in desperation.

Compassion fills her expression. "She doesn't want to see you right now. I think it's best if you stay away."

"I'm not staying away from my wife," I insist.

"If you calm down, I'll tell you where she's at," Brax offers.

Valentina's head snaps toward him. "She doesn't want to see him."

"Where is she?" I demand.

"She's at Dante's place. Don't worry. Sean's there. She's fine. She needs time. I've known her forever. Give her some space," he suggests.

"Chicago or New York?" I question.

"New York. Sean took her. Don't worry, she's safe," Brax reiterates.

"She's not safe," I bark. "Someone wants her dead. Or did you two forget about that?"

Valentina pins me with a withering look. She puts her hand on her hip and points to the couch. "Kirill, sit your ass down."

I scowl.

She hisses, "I said to sit."

My insides shake harder.

"Kirill," she says in a softer tone.

I meet her eyes. "I need my wife. Home. Safe. With me."

She sighs and nods. "I know. Please sit."

Feeling defeated, I finally cave and plop down on the chair.

They sit on the sofa. Valentina looks at Brax uncomfortably, and he gives her the same expression.

Panic hits me. "What aren't you two telling me?"

Brax shakes his head. "We're coming up empty, man."

"What do you mean you're coming up empty? There's a Zenith Mandate. There is surveillance on everyone. It's not possible to have nothing!"

He groans. "Kirill, you're going to have a heart attack if you don't calm the fuck down."

"Watch your mouth," I warn.

Valentina orders, "Just sit there and be quiet, Brax." She shakes her head at him.

"Don't start with me," he growls.

"Cut the shit! You two were assigned to gather intel on whoever is threatening my wife's life," I remind them.

Brax opens his mouth, and Valentina puts her hand over it.

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