Page 139 of Desperate People

I didn’t answer with anything but the truth.

“No, ma’am. I think you’re a good mother. Lucy wouldn’t be who she is if you weren’t.”

She sniffed like I’d amused her.

“You’re diplomatic. I’ll give you that. But you don’t know what it’s like, watching someone that beautiful walk through a world that’s constantly trying to claim her.”

“She’s more than just a face, Mrs. Volkov.”

“Of course she is. But people don’t see that. They see Marat’s genes. They see a goddess and think they’re entitled to her. But beauty like that? It’s not just attention—it’s obsession, it’s danger, it’s heavy—so damn heavy. It was mine to protect for a long time,” she said, then touched my hand. “But it’s your job now, Balor. You married her. You get the honor of protecting her. And not just her body. Protect her heart. Make her believe that face of hers is a gift, not a curse.”

“I just want to keep her safe.”

“And you want to keep her yours.”

She smiled wisely, not unkindly.

“Listen to me, son. She is yours. She chose you. So when it gets heavy, and it will, trust me, it will. And when standing in her light feels like standing too close to the sun—just remember, you asked for this. She needs you to be strong. Don’t walk away. The burn’s worth it. Just don’t give up on her.”

“Never,” I told her. “I will never walk away from Lucy. I love her.”

“I know you do, and that’s why it’s me telling you this and not my husband standing here, looking for a good place to stick a knife.”

My mother-in-law smiled at me, but I had the distinct feeling it wasn’t a joke.

“You’re a good man, Balor. Now go to your wife.”

And I did. I practically tripped over myself getting to her after that little speech last night.

Destiny Volkov was one smart woman. And she was right.

Touching Lucy? Being near her? Loving her?

It was like religion.

Like worshipping the sun.

And standing here now, watching the way people crane for a glimpse of her, the way strangers buzz around like flies just waiting to be near what’s mine, I understand what Destiny meant.

This woman—my woman—draws the world to her like gravity.

And I’d rather drown the world than let it take her from me.

“Security’s tight, but in position. I have confirmation from Sigma International, the rest are on their way,” Onyx says, appearing at my side like a shadow.

I nod, eyes locked on the white tent.

“I want eyes on her at all times.”

“She’s safe,” he assures me.

I don’t answer.

Because I won’t feel safe until she’s back in my arms. Away from this spotlight.

Away from all the fucking parasites.

But for now, I’ll stand in the fire with her.

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