Chương 21: Tonight, I leave.

(IVANNA)

I spend the rest of the day away from the castle.

Instead, I spend the hours with Vincent, learning all there is to know about grapes and wine. I asked him about the borders of the estate, but he told me that they weren't walkable. That I would need a car to reach them. Apparently, Sakharov owns a massive amount of land. Damn him.

I tell myself that I kept outside to find a way to escape, but deep down, I know it is a lie. After my encounter with the older Sakharov in the ballroom, I was left shaken. Aroused. He was so angry at me, yet unbelievably hot as he cornered me. The way his large body caged me in as he tried to intimidate me.

Except, his touch was so gentle. His gaze burned into mine with such intensity that I could have sworn it flicked something in me, making me ache and soak my panties wet. There was a moment it almost felt like the attraction was mutual.

Wasn't it?