Page 52 of Dark Seduction

"Just one suitcase," I reply, feeling a strange relief at the mundane question.

“Whatever else is still at your place, I'll have it sent over tomorrow. I don’t want you going back there at all."

The tone of his voice doesn't leave room for argument, not that I would challenge him on it, especially not now.

Then, Lev surprises me again. He leans in and kisses me deeply, his arms pulling me close. The intensity of his kiss sends a rush through me. For a breathless moment, I wonder if he's going to take me right here, right now, and I realize, with a jolt of surprise, that I would let him.

But he doesn't. Instead, he pulls back slightly, his eyes locked on mine, heavy with unspoken words. "We're leaving for my place now," he says.

With those words, I know my old life is gone forever. A new chapter is beginning, one entwined irrevocably with Lev's, filled with danger and passion. As I stand there, held close by him, the reality of my situation settles in.

I'm stepping into a world far removed from anything I've known, protected and claimed by a man who is both a sanctuary and a danger.

Chapter 23

Dalia

As the first rays of morning light filter through the curtains, I stir awake, feeling groggy and worn-out from last night. When we arrived to Lev’s place exhaustion had overwhelmed me the instant I crossed the threshold—probably the combined effects of the evening's adrenaline rush and my pregnancy.

I find myself in the familiar surroundings of the guest room where I've stayed before. Glancing around, I notice a note placed on the table beside the bed.

Dalia,

I'm out investigating the attempts on your life.

Your belongings have been shipped over and are waiting in the living room. I've asked that you not leave the building for your own safety. I understand this might feel confining, but it's necessary under the circumstances.

If you need anything to eat or drink, we have a chef at the restaurant in the lobby. Feel free to order whatever you like and it will be brought up to you.

Your comfort and safety are my top priorities right now.

Take care,

Lev

I set the note down and roll out of bed, still feeling the drudge of sleep and pause to take in the spectacular view from the window.

Slipping into some comfy pants, I leave the bedroom and wander through Lev's sprawling penthouse. I get to the living room, all of my things already there as mentioned. My boxes and belongings take up such a tiny part of this vast space and I can't help but chuckle at the sight.

I head to the kitchen to make some decaf. As the rich aroma fills the air, I decide to treat myself to breakfast from the restaurant Lev mentioned. I grab the phone and call the chef, curious about the special.

"Good morning. What's on the menu today?" I ask.

"Today’s special is a smoked salmon with eggs Benedict and a side of herb-roasted potatoes," the chef replies, his voice cheerful.

"That sounds amazing, I'll have that, thank you."

Order placed, I sip my coffee, feeling a bit more fortified to tackle the day. I glance over at the boxes waiting to be unpacked and the furniture that needs arranging.

It's a new beginning here in this large and luxurious space, and I'm ready to put my stamp on it.

I dive into the task of unpacking, slowly transforming the space into something that feels like it could be mine. Not long after, the food arrives, and I take a break to enjoy the delicious meal.

As the morning fades into afternoon, I manage to make a significant dent in the unpacking. Just as I’m breaking down the last empty box, I hear the door open.

Lev steps through, dressed down in a white henley with black buttons that subtly accentuate his toned upper body, paired with gray jeans. He looks effortlessly handsome, and seeing him like this, in such a casual, domestic setting, adds a new layer of intimacy to our relationship.

He greets me with a warm smile. "Making yourself comfortable?" he asks, his eyes scanning the progress I've made.