The Book of Rook

Chapter 36

PHOENIX

Ilya escorts me to his car and opens the door as I throw myself in, forcing the tears not to fall. How can he think I'd cheat on him? I'm giving him the divorce he would ask for eventually. This was just an arrangement. Hell, we weren't even supposed to get married.

The car ride and elevator ride are quiet. Ilya just stands by my side. I guess he's letting me fume. I knew Rook was jealous, but I didn't think he would think I would disrespect him and our vows. Even though our vows were taken in a drunken state, they still mean something to me. I play with my wedding ring on my finger to calm my anxiety.

I open the front door and throw my purse across the room and let out a huff. Then I take off my shoes and I'm about to throw them also before Ilya grabs them out of my hands.

"You'll break a window and glass will be everywhere. Then you will cut your feet and bleed all over the house while I carry you to the counter to clean your cuts."

I roll my eyes. "Aren't you being a little dramatic?"

He shakes his head. "In my line of work, you have to be prepared for all outcomes and that looks like the most logical outcome."

He's not wrong.

"Stay here while I make a sweep of the place," he orders as he disappears up the stairs.

I grab my purse from across the room and huff while I wait for Ilya to come back. He gives me a thumbs up. "Would you like to talk about it?"

Yes, I would but where to start? "My husband is an ass." Well look, I did know how to start.

He chuckles and places a stray hair behind my ear. "He's jealous."

"There's no reason to be," I say softly as I look into his green eyes. His fingers go from behind my ear to cup my face.

"Is there? Are you sure?" he says in a low, deep voice making me shiver.

I swallow loudly and I shake my head. Feeling a pull between us.

"Phoenix, you are a beautiful woman and I'm not blind."

Oh shit. I think he might kiss me. What do I do? What do I want to do? Crap, where was this guy over a year ago? I can't do this. I love Rook.

"Ilya," I say softly. His thumb rubs across my lower lip.

"I don't blame Rook one bit. I do find you very attractive, but I do respect the sanctity of marriage. Knowing this isn't a real marriage gives me hope."

I shake my head, tearing my gaze from his hypnotic eyes. "It didn't start off as a real marriage, but I fell in love with Rook. I love him." Again I'm saying it out loud to someone other than Rook. What is wrong with me?

I see disappointment in his eyes as he drops his hand from my face. "I understand."

"Don't get me wrong. You are extremely attractive and if we were different people, maybe things would have turned out differently."

He puts his hands in his pockets. "No need to explain. I hope we can still be friends."

I smile at him. "I still need a bodyguard until Brad is found."

He nods his head. "The place is clear so I'll take off," he points his thumb at the door. "Just make sure to lock the door and set the alarm when I go."

I walk with him to the door. "Ilya, I'm sorry."

He sends me a sad smile. "Don't be красивый."