Page 17 of Cruel Russian Pakhan
“You’re safe now,” he murmured, kissing the top of my head.
Having his arms around me was one thing, but his words and the kiss combined almost undid me.
I clung to his shirt and squeezed my eyes shut.
Don’t cry. Don’t cry.
The more he whispered comforting words to me, the more my trembling eased. It was like his voice had become a harp, each note soothing the panicked beast inside me until it curled up and slept.
Not only did he calm me, but I felt safe in his arms.
I felt safe in the arms of my kidnapper.
Why did I feel this way?
I didn't have the answer, nor did I want to dwell on the question at that moment. So, I let myself lean into him, soaking in everything that he was offering. The only people who had ever held me like this were my adoptive parents. I hadn't realized how much I missed it until now.
When we finally arrived at Lev’s, Rocco climbed out. I thought Lev would get out, too, but he just sat there holding me.
After a few minutes, he loosened his hold. I bit down to keep the whimper from escaping.
“Stay there. I’m coming around,” he said gently, stepping out without waiting for a reply.
I stayed still as Lev opened the door and extended his hand. I took it, and as I stepped out, pain shot up my leg when I applied pressure on my left foot.
I winced. Damn. I’d forgotten about that.
Without a word, Lev scooped me into his arms.
I shrieked. “Lev!”
“Wrap your arms around me,” he ordered gruffly.
I obeyed, tucking my head into the curve of his neck, once again enjoying the feel of his body against mine more than I should.
He carried me like I was a bundle of feathers, not a woman pushing one hundred and eighty pounds. He didn’t stop until we were inside my room. He didn’t even break a sweat. Not a single strained inhale or grunt.
I wasn’t sure if I should be worried…or impressed.
He placed me gently on the sofa, and reluctantly, I removed my arms from around his neck. He stepped back, and I instantly missed the warmth that his body provided.
What on earth was wrong with me? Of all the men to be attracted to, I had to fall for the one who ripped my dreams away, kidnapped me, and forced me to marry him?
Before I could plunge any further down that ridiculous train of thought, his gaze morphed from concerned to disappointed in a fraction of a second. Then he said something I never expected.
“That was a setup, wasn’t it?”
What the hell?
The tenderness that radiated from him just a few seconds ago vanished like it had never existed, replaced by suspicion.
As illogical as it sounded, I was pissed. We had just shared a tender moment, and he made me feel safe. Something I hadn't felt in like…forever! Just to switch it up like this? Was his tenderness even real, or just manipulation to get me back into his house without a fight?
My jaw clenched, tone icy. “What are you talking about?”
Since he wanted to act like the past few minutes didn't happen, then I would, too.
“Don’t play dumb.” Shadows swirled in his eyes. “I don't think it was a coincidence that your family contacted me the same night you escaped. They knew I'd come check on you and realize you were missing. They knew I'd follow. That's why you headed in that direction. You lured me right into their damn ambush!” His voice rose at the end.
