Chapter 27
Katerina
I didn’t know peace like this was possible.
I feel free.
And alive.
Nik’s been training me. I’m finally a threat. If anyone ever tries to hurt me again, I can not only stop them but can make them hurt. It’s a euphoric feeling being strong.
I can shoot a gun. I can shoot a crossbow. I can fight hand-to-hand. I can fight with a knife. I can throw knives. I even know the basics of sword fighting.
I’ve been strength and endurance training as well. I run five to ten miles most days. On my rest days, I swim. Now, I’m comfortable with every piece of equipment in the gym. I’ve gained enough muscle to feel powerful.
But it’s not just that. It’s not just my own achievements.
It’s him.
Dominic.
He gives me my space but doesn’t at the same time.
I don’t see him for hours while I’m training, but we have breakfast and dinner together every day. And we spend the evenings together.
He doesn’t let us just sit in silence. He makes conversation. He commands my attention. He riles me up just to mess with me. And damn it, it’s a little hot.
I hear him in the shower. I know he’s loud on purpose, but I can’t seem to leave the bedroom when he’s in there. I’ve been tempted more than once to sneak in again, to finish what we started, but I’ve reasoned with myself every time.
I want my husband.
I want him so badly.
But I can’t give in.
Giving in to him would feel like losing to him. I swore this marriage would be in name only, but now it feels like this marriage is real in every way except in its celibacy.
I didn’t choose to marry him. I didn’t choose him. And now I’m disappointed in myself for wanting him.
But he’s so hot. Even when he’s brooding or instigating a fight.
It’s infuriating.
He’s infuriating.
And I hate that I love it.