The silk sheets feel soft against my skin, but the comfort is a lie. I woke up alone, the cool air where Vladimir’s body was a silent reminder of his absence. I’m starting to hate how he just disappears without a word. My hand instinctively goes to my stomach, a quiet promise to the twins that I’ll keep them safe, even if I’m not sure I can keep myself safe. I've been here for three days, and every day is a test. I am a fish out of water, in a world of sharks, and the most terrifying shark of them all is the man I'm falling for.
After breakfast, I find my way to the garden, needing the sun on my skin and the scent of flowers to remind me of home. I find Irina, Vladimir's mother, sitting on a bench, a book in her hands. She smiles, a gentle, sad expression that makes her look so much older
