Page 115 of Ripped Veil (Ripped Bratva)

It’s the closest she’s come to a full-on outburst. This time, I’m the one who’s fascinated. I have to bite back my grin.

When I say nothing, she says, “Well? Are you going to answer me?”

“I didn’t hear a question in there.”

“Fine. Why did you invite me here?”

“Because yesterday, things got out of hand.”

She tenses. “Yesterday…”

“But,” I continue, “it’s nothing that can’t be solved with a simple, honest conversation.”

She flinches subtly at the word “honest.” My intrigue only grows.

William reappears with a flourish before she can figure out how to reply. “Two menus for the master and the young lady. Can I interest either of you in some wine? We have a wonderful selection this evening.”

“No wine tonight,” I answer without ever taking my eyes off Elyssa. “But some champagne would be lovely.”

William bows, then walks away. Elyssa watches him go in disbelief. “You come here often?” she asks when we’re alone again.

I shrug. “Not as often as I’d like.”

“What does that mean?”

“It means I’m busy.”

“Busy doing what?”

“Busy running an empire.” I jut my chin at her menu. “They have an extensive selection. You should start deciding now.”

She shakes her head. “Places like this… I wouldn’t know what to order.”

Something about her voice catches my attention. It’s not just inexperience or intimidation, although both of those things are definitely present. It’s a kind of untouched purity I’ve never seen in my entire life.

I lean forward and prop my elbows up on the table. “Where are you from,krasotka?”

“I’m from Washington. A little town outside of—”

“Fignya.” My word slices through her rehearsed jumble.

She blinks in confusion. “What?”

“Bullshit. Lies. Tell me the truth, Elyssa. I won’t settle for anything less.”

I watch as the knot in her throat rides up and down with a nervous swallow. She has her hands clasped tightly in front of her, as if to stop them from shaking.

Then, to my surprise, she closes her eyes and shudders. When she opens them again, she’s got a stony look. Like she exposed herself for a moment, but she’s now retreated back to safety behind her castle walls.

“I’d like you to order for both of us, please,” she says quietly. “If you don’t mind.”

I study her expression for a long moment. So many mysteries here. I want to crack them all open with my bare hands.

In due time,I tell myself.It’ll come.

William reappears a moment later with a bottle of Dom Perignon Rose Gold.

“The seafood prix fixe, William,” I request as he uncorks the bottle and fills our glasses. “All five courses.”

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