“You don’t strike me as a woman who likes boring things.”
“And you strike me as a man who likes bland things. Vanilla cake is perfect for you.”
“Trust me, Kira, the last thing I am is vanilla.”
I frown. What does he mean by that?
Enzo’s gaze intensifies on me. “Do you not understand?”
Shoot. He knows something I don’t. Instead of looking confused, I flash him a bright smile. “Of course I do.”
“I’m not sure you do. For a moment there you seemed… innocent. How innocent are you, Kira? For a girl who goes to clubs and drinks, I doubt you’re innocent at all.”
The last thing I’m going to do is tell him I’m a virgin. That’s something he’ll hold over my head.
“Let’s just eat cake,” I say, before stuffing a large bite of the chocolate one in my mouth.
Enzo’s eyes dip down to my lips. “You know, we don’t have to hate each other. We could have fun instead.”
“Fun how? I’m not sure I’ll like your idea of fun.”
“I could show you so many things you’ve never experienced.”
I try to keep the blush from my face but it’s so hard. “Like what?” It’s a dangerous question to ask.
“I’ll be better than any other man you’ve been with before.”
“How many men do you think I’ve been with? I told you I wasn’t a slut. I’m the daughter of a Bratva man. That should tell you everything.”
“Maybe. But I can’t quite figure you out. You’re either more innocent than I’m giving you credit for or you’re keeping secrets from me.”
“No secrets,” I say as my heart pounds out of my chest.
Enzo leans into my ear. “I’m sure I’ll figure them all out in time.”
“Never.”
“Challenge accepted.” He swipes his finger against my lip, making me flinch. “You had a piece of chocolate on your face.”
My only reply is to take another bite.
Chapter Five
Kira
My wedding day.
After weeks of planning, it’s finally here. And all I can feel is absolute dread in the pit of my stomach as I stand before the mirror in the hotel suite in my wedding dress. Our guests are arriving at the hotel now. Enzo and I are going to be married in the outdoor garden in just an hour.
I have to stop myself from throwing up. My entire life is going to change. No more safety. No more spoiled existence. I doubt Enzo is going to treat me like a princess the way my father has. No. Enzo is going to push me and I’m worried what I might do.
My father and Maksim arrive. Without a word, I throw my arms around my brother and he holds on tight.
“I’m always here for you, Kira,” he says into my ear. “I never wanted this for you. Trust that I would never have married you off to Enzo if it were up to me.”
“I know. I don’t blame you for this. Nikolai is in charge of the Bratva. It was his decision.” I pull back and offer my brother a smile. “I know you’ll keep me safe.”
“If Enzo ever tries to hurt you, I will hurt him. I promise.”