Clara was still lying in my arms when I woke up. I gently lifted her head and got up. I kissed her forehead before going to the bathroom. Once I was done, I returned to the room. Clara was awake, smiling at me.
“Good morning, sunshine,” I said, coming out of the bathroom. “We need to head home.”
Clara nodded at me and then slid out of bed. She went to the bathroom and came out, ready to leave.
Pulling up to the mansion, I saw Avgust's car in the driveway. I knew they were going to have mouthfuls to say. I would manage the situation before it exploded. Getting out, I moved around and opened Clara’s door.
“You’ve got company?” She asked.
“Looks like it, but don’t worry,” I replied, leading her to the door.
Entering the mansion, I saw them standing there waiting for us. I briskly walked up to them and spoke in a low tone. “Before anyone explodes, just listen to what I have to say.”
They nodded and stepped back. I was surprised none of them tried to interrupt me.
Printessa,” I said calmly as I turned to Clara. “You head upstairs, I’ll be there shortly.”
For a moment, she just stood there looking at me. “Go on,” I said, nodding at her. She turned and went up the stairs. I made sure she was out of sight before replying.
“This wasn’t planned,” I said. “I was keeping an eye on the situation with Kolya when I saw she was about to get kidnapped.” I felt sure a white lie wouldn’t hurt them. “I only took her to keep her safe. I don’t know why they wanted her, but until we know what’s going on, I’ll keep her safe,” I added.
Avgust sighed. He nodded and spoke over his shoulder as he walked away. “Well, we are leaving, please don’t mess this up!”
“I have everything under control,” I huffed. Most of the day, Clara spent time in the room. She came down for lunch and supper. The rest of the time, she was on her laptop or her phone. After saving her from the real kidnappers, I felt sure she wouldn’t reach out to her family. She knew she was safe with me.
“Clara, did you want something for dessert, or maybe want to go out?” I asked.
“No, thanks, I’m fine,” she replied.
Smiling, I started towards the office. Then, I turned and spoke before leaving the room. “Okay, I’ll be in my office if you need me.”
“No problem,” she added as I left.
I caught up on most of my work before I realized the time. Heading back to the room, I found Clara sleeping.
She looked so peaceful as I climbed back into bed. I moved slowly, not wanting to disturb her. Turning to my side, I closed my eyes, a wide grin on my lips. Sleep came quickly like a soothing friend in the night.
As I opened my eyes, I found her still asleep next to me. I couldn’t stop looking at her. She was so amazing. I watched her breathing for a moment, entranced. Clara stirred. Her eyes flickered then opened.
“Good morning, Printessa,” I said, lightly stroking the side of her arm. “How are you feeling? Did you sleep well?”
Clara smiled as she spoke. “Yes, thank you, and you?”
“I did. Let's go home, don’t you think?” I asked as I climbed out of bed.
“I suppose,” she mumbled behind me.
I used the bathroom first, and once I was done, it was Clara’s turn. “Ready?” I asked as she came out. She nodded, and I led her back to my car. She looked calm, and it was nice seeing her this way.
Clara stared out the window as we headed home. I wondered what was going through her mind, but didn’t ask. I didn’t want to disturb her. I preferred watching her beautiful elegance.
Pulling up to the mansion, I spotted Avgust’s car. They were waiting for us to return. This wasn’t an issue for me as I knew what had to be done. Stopping in my usual place, I assisted Clara out and headed for the front door.
Before I could even touch the handle, the door swung open. There stood Avgust as large as life. “Hi, you’re here early,” I said, pushing past him with Clara on my arm.
“Yes, we have to talk, brother,” he huffed. “Things aren’t as they should be. We know something is going on!”
I saw my other brother also waiting for me. Timofey was the only one not present. Lukyan stood with his arms folded across his chest. It appeared he was angry for some reason.
