Total pages in book: 97
Estimated words: 92133 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 461(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 307(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 92133 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 461(@200wpm)___ 369(@250wpm)___ 307(@300wpm)
What kind of man does that? He doesn’t want me. His touch isn’t filled with passion for me. I’m a duty.
Wrapping my arms around my body, I step toward the grass. Aurora and Slavik’s home is so big, anyone could get lost. Removing my sneakers, I take a step onto the cold, wet ground.
There had been a storm last night. I’d lain awake in Andrei’s arms, listening to the ferocious sound. As a child I’d always hated storms, and that hadn’t changed as I aged. I always feared that the wind would be so strong it would tear the roof right off whatever place I was at. I’d lie awake for hours, listening, terrified of what could happen. Oftentimes I’d fall asleep, and the next morning I’d see the devastation.
It was like Mother Nature was too afraid to befall the Volkov Bratva’s wrath, as there was no damage to his property. Even the trees didn’t dare shed any branches.
“Hello, Adelaide.”
I’ve already stepped into the wet grass when I look up to see Ivan approaching. His gaze seems entertained when he sees me standing on the cold wet ground. I’m freezing, but I’d rather feel the chill than the icy knowledge my husband doesn’t want me. It was easier to live with him when he ignored me. I’d rather be invisible than go through this.
I thought I could handle it, but seeing Aurora and Slavik hurt more than ever. Bethany’s constant taunts and pictures were eating away at me.
“Mr. Volkov,” I said, bowing my head and showing respect.
Ivan clapped his hands together. “Adelaide, you are forever a delight.”
I doubted that.
“Did you conclude your business?” I asked. Andrei never talked to me about what he and the others did. I wasn’t expected to know, and for the most part, I kept my nose out.
Understanding his business wasn’t part of my job description, at least that’s what I’m always told. My job is to have babies. To shut up. To not make waves.
In that moment, I think about my parents. Not once did they make an effort to see me. When I’m alone, I’ll turn the television on and go check out their channel, but other than seeing all the boring shows every single day, nothing has changed for them. I sometimes checked them on the Internet as well. Random pictures would appear—my mother shopping, my parents out together or with Bethany. No news about the daughter they were happy to give up for that pleasure.
“In a sense.” Ivan stared at me. “Are you okay?”
“Yes, I’m fine.”
It was a perfect and easy mantra to keep saying. No one wanted the truth. They were happy with careful lies.
“You’re lying.”
I tilt my head back and look up at the sky. It’s dull. Not a single speck of brightness to be had, which was how I felt. Rubbing my hands up and down my arms, I know I need to escape this.
“I’m tired,” I said, making my excuses.
“You know you can talk to him, don’t you?” Ivan asked.
I glance at Ivan who is still staring. I wonder at times what is going on in his head. He’s always plotting. Always keeping one step ahead of the game.
Talking to Andrei was out of the question. It has always been out of the question. He has his own life.
“I’ll see you at dinner,” I said.
Ivan doesn’t stop me from leaving. I pass so many guards as I make my way to Andrei’s and my sleeping quarters. He’s not here and I’m glad about that.
Sitting down on the edge of the bed, I rest my palms flat on my knees and take a deep breath, then another, and then another. I’m still taking them, trying to calm my nerves, when my cell phone beeps. Pulling it out of my pocket, I’m almost hesitant to look. The last thing I want to see is another picture from Bethany. I promised myself I wouldn’t let anything she said bother me, but how could I be so foolish to think I would get over it? This is my sister we’re talking about. She takes great pleasure in hurting me.
It’s not from Bethany.
Nathan has texted me. I’ve not seen him in quite some time, and I miss my friend with his easy smile and heartwarming words.
Nathan: I need to see you.
Andrei asked me not to have any contact with him. So I haven’t. Leo didn’t approve of me seeing Nathan. I don’t have feelings for my friend. I’m not attracted to him in any way.
Nathan: I have to tell you something. I know what is going on, Adelaide. I can help you.
I doubt very much he can help me. Can he stop me from feeling this way? Can he stop my sister from hurting me?
Adelaide: I can’t talk right now. I’m away with friends. I’ll let you know when I’m back.