Total pages in book: 83
Estimated words: 79097 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 395(@200wpm)___ 316(@250wpm)___ 264(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 79097 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 395(@200wpm)___ 316(@250wpm)___ 264(@300wpm)
“You think we’re the only ones here?”
I shake my head. “I fucking hope so.”
“No one to cook for you? To make your bed? I can shoot a gun, Lev, but domestic duties…”
“My mother raised me to be a man, not a boy,” I tell her with a smile. “Yeah, I can handle this shit.”
Isabella shrugs a slender shoulder and smiles. “We don’t need staff, do we? There’s a certain appeal in being alone on an island.”
But when we enter the villa, it does appear we’re alone. This place is a masterpiece of modern architecture, somehow perfectly fitting with the natural beauty of the island. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer panoramic views of the ocean, and the interior is furnished with elegant but simple decor.
“My mother would cluck her tongue at all the white and beige, you know,” she says with a smile. “Though I like the ocean inspiration with the accents.” Outside furniture of white wicker features shell decor and pale blues and greens. The clean, simple lines give the place an elegant, pristine look.
All I care about is that it’s well-furnished and isolated, perfect for keeping her close and safe.
As we step inside, I watch her take in our surroundings. Her eyes widen slightly, and I can tell she’s impressed, even if she doesn’t want to show it. A place like this must contrast with what she’s familiar with at home.
I take out my phone, not surprised to find I have four bars and Wi-Fi. My brother would never send me to a place where he couldn’t reach me the second he wanted to. I shoot him a text.
Mikhail: What the fuck happened???
We took down an enemy helicopter. I’ll get her to tell me who they were later but obviously, we know it was the cartel behind it.
Shit. Glad you made it safely.
All good at home?
We’re fine. Couple of dumbasses tried to stir shit here but Viktor handled it. Mom never even knew
Perfect. Any staff here?
No. I thought you two would be better off and enjoy it more if you were totally alone. I had specific instructions left when the staff vacated to make sure you have a relaxing stay. Nothing to worry about. You’ll find everything you need at the front desk. You two fucking earned it.
Thank you.
Stay in touch
I turn to Isabella. “We’re the only ones here. Mikhail says there are instructions for us up front.”
She grins. “Alone, on a gorgeous island, hidden from our enemies and stranded with my hot, dominant husband who has a vow to consummate our marriage and knock me up?” She taps her chin. “Hmm. Let me think about this.” She pretends to think for a minute before she pumps her fists and hoots. “Woot!”
I watch as she runs to the front desk, where normally, staff might check us in. She picks up a white sheet of paper. “Oooh, look here, Lev. This is what Mikhail was talking about.” She reads in her beautiful voice.
Welcome to Kuznetsov Island Villa. We have made the following accommodations for you.
You will find the kitchen well stocked with high-quality ingredients as well as a handful of gourmet meals that can easily be prepared or reheated, a variety of snacks and beverages, fine wines, champagnes, and spirits.
There is also an espresso machine and a fully stocked coffee bar.
Linens, towels, and anything else you might need are in the hall closet, and your bedroom has been prepared.
We have left a few personal touches throughout the villa to enhance your stay. You’ll find a selection of books and movies, as well as luxury spa accoutrements on site. Please use the hot tub and pool with caution but as often as you wish.
Should you find you wish to explore the island, we have detailed guides and equipment in the shed outside for snorkeling, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and hiking. Outdoors, you will also find a secluded beach picnic area, a hammock for two, and a gazebo beside the outdoor bar.
We have a state-of-the-art workout area as well as a recovery room. You’ll see everything listed on the map.
Everything has been automated—lighting, climate control, and security systems, but should any need arise, please dial the number provided for immediate assistance or security we’ve established on a nearby island.
Congratulations, and enjoy your stay.
Isabella grins. “Did we die in that helicopter and land in heaven?” For a moment, I stare at her, hardly believing this woman is my wife and I’ve got her all to myself for the week.
“Find out what you can,” Mikhail instructed. “Anything and everything she’ll tell you.”
I smile at her, hoping it doesn’t look like I’m baring my teeth. I guess I don’t smile very often.
“I’m not the kind of guy who goes to heaven when I die,” I say, shaking my head. I can’t help but smirk at her.
She takes a step toward me, her eyes smoldering. “Good,” she says in a low drawl. “Sinners have more fun, and I’ll enjoy the company.”