Page 72 of The Enemy Protector
It’s over before I can process what’s happening.
When I open my eyes, he’s already pulling away. His expression is unreadable. That same stoic look that seems to be a permanent thing.
“Congratulations,” the priest says, though he sounds like he couldn’t care less.
Kirill shakes Sergei’s hand. Nelson looks like he wants to congratulate me but isn’t sure if he’s allowed.
And just like that, it’s done.
I’m Sofia Sokolov.
The name feels foreign. Wrong. Like I’m wearing someone else’s skin.
The priest leaves quickly, probably eager to forget this strange, cold ceremony.
“Give us a moment,” Sergei says to Nelson and Kirill.
They disappear into the foyer.
And then we’re alone.
Husband and wife.
I look down at the ring on my finger. A shackle.
“Are you okay?” Sergei asks.
The question surprises me. I expected him to launch into logistics. Security protocols. Rules for our new arrangement.
I don’t expect him to ask if I’m okay.
“I’m fine,” I say automatically.
“You’re not.”
I look up at him. “What do you want me to say? That I’m thrilled to be married to a man I don’t know? That this is everything I dreamed of?”
“I want you to be honest.”
“Fine. I feel like I’ve been backed into a corner with no way out.” I cross my arms. “Honest enough for you?”
He’s quiet for a moment. Then he nods slowly. “Yes.”
“Your turn,” I say. “How do you feel about this?”
“I don’t.”
I stare at him, waiting for more. Waiting for something that resembles an actual human emotion.
He doesn’t give me one.
“We’re going to the restaurant for our reception,” he says instead, shifting seamlessly into business mode. “Some of the heads of the other families will be there. We need to make sure we’re seen together.”
“How romantic,” I mutter.
He ignores the sarcasm. “From this point on, you don’t leave without me or one of my men. Not to the corner store. Not to class. Nowhere. A guard will be with you around the clock.”
“I know that,” I snap. “I’m not an idiot. That’s the whole point of this arrangement, remember? Your protection.”
