Page 28 of King of Shadows

“We already have him leaning our way,” Lev continues. “He just needs to feel like he’s making the right choice.”

“He will.”

“And if he sees you at his charity gala with your new wife, even better. Chloe is coming right?”

“Of course she is. This will be our first outing together as husband and wife. Our first public appearance.”

“Perfect. Olov is a proud man. He’ll love the idea that you’re using his charity gala to introduce your wife.”

“And the bastard is all about family. Seeing you there with Chloe, showing her off as your wife, is going to warm his heart even more.”

“Then we’ll give him something to be happy about.”

We spend the next hour going over other business, the latest shipment, the clubs, a problem with one of the restaurants, and a few other matters that need my attention.

Eventually, Lev gets to his feet. “I’ll see you tonight.”

He reaches the door before turning around. “And try not to smile too much. You’re ruining your reputation.”

“Get the fuck out.”

He laughs as he leaves. The door closes behind him, and silence settles over the office again. I try to get some work done, but after a while, I can’t resist checking my watch. It’s been a few hours since I last saw my wife, and that’s a few hours too long.

So, I shut down my computer, grab my jacket, and head for the door. Two weeks. That’s how long Chloe has been my wife, and they have been the best two weeks of my life.

Every morning, I’m blessed with the sight of waking up to her in my arms, I could lie there for hours just watching her sleep. There is something fucking incredible about waking up beside the woman I love and knowing she is mine.

And at the end of every day, I look forward to coming home to her. We have dinner together, argue playfully over what to watch, and end up watching whatever show she wants. Then she stretches her legs across my lap, silently expecting me to rub her feet. And I always oblige, those quiet moments with her are my favorite.

We’ve spent most of the last two weeks at home, enjoying our newly married life. We haven’t attended any events together yet, but that hasn’t stopped word from spreading. Everyone knows Kazimir Sokolov is married now.

Some of the families who had been hoping I would choose one of their daughters aren’t particularly pleased about it. But there’s nothing they can do. And now, everyone is curious about my wife. Tonight will give them their first real look at her.

I would have preferred to introduce Chloe on my own terms, at a party I hosted myself. But Lev was right about Olov. The man is proud, and he loves anything that makes him feel important. Using his charity gala to introduce Chloe as my wife will make him feel like he’s part of the occasion.

***

By the time we arrive at the gala, the red carpet is already crowded. Paparazzi line both sides of the entrance, cameras flashing as we step out of the car. Reporters call my name from every direction, trying to get my attention.

“Mr. Sokolov! What made you finally settle down?”

“How long have you been together?”

I ignore every question. I have eyes only for the woman beside me. Chloe looks fucking radiant. Her blush-colored dress is strapless, hugging her body in all the right places. Her hair is swept into an elegant updo, exposing her neck and shoulders.

I place a hand at the small of her back as we pose for the cameras. Flash after flash goes off, Chloe smiles beside me, composed. After a few pictures, I guide her inside, the moment we’re through the doors, I feel the tension in her body.

“Relax,” I murmur near her ear.

“Easy for you to say. I’m the one who’s going to be under scrutiny.” She looks up at me, worry flickering in her eyes. “What if I don’t meet their expectations? What if—”

“Hey,” I cut in gently. “Everyone in this room wants to be on your good side. They’ll be seeking your favor before the night is over.”

She looks at me. “That is not helping.”

I smile and kiss her temple. “You’re a queen in this room, baby. Don’t carry yourself any less.”

She exhales. “I’ll try to remember that.”