Bound by Love (Russian Connection 2)

How would Stefan ever be capable of caring for another when he was haunted by the ghosts of those he had lost?

He stepped forward, his brow furrowed. “We were discussing our future, not some mythical wife.”

“There is no future to discuss, Stefan.” She tilted her chin. “It is impossible.”

His gaze raked over her slender body, deliberately reminding her of the hours he had devoted to pleasuring her. “Obviously it is not,” he gritted. “Why will you not accept that this passion that burns between us is far from sated?”

“Because I need more.”

“More of what?”

“More than you can offer.”

Anger flared in his eyes at her sharp words and he reached out to grasp her arm. Leonida, however, swiftly stepped to the side, avoiding his hand.

Then, with her chin held high, she marched across the terrace and back into the brightly lit palace.

She had no power to ease the demons that plagued him.

Until Stefan could accept his loss and learn to trust his emotions to another, he would be forever alone.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FIVE

STEFAN WATCHED LEONIDA disappear from the terrace, his hands clenched at his side.

He could easily have halted her retreat. Just a few swift steps and he could have her tossed over his shoulder and headed into the privacy of the orchard. He had no doubt once he had her alone he could prove she was just as eager for his touch as she had been earlier in the day.

Instead he remained frozen in place, his anger a tangible force that swirled through his body.

At least, he told himself it was anger. Otherwise he would have to admit that the searing emotion was…anguish.

Because I need more than you can offer.

His jaw clenched as her low, cutting words continued to echo through his mind.

What the devil was wrong with the woman?

There was no man who could offer a woman more than he could.

He possessed an enviable position among society, excessive wealth he was delighted to squander on his lovers, a rather handsome countenance and a steady temperament.

Most certainly his previous mistresses had never complained. Hell, they had used every feminine trick available to keep his interest.

Obviously Leonida envisioned some paragon of male perfection that no gentleman could hope to achieve.

Damn the aggravating wench.

Standing alone in the dark, Stefan sucked in deep breaths as he attempted to calm his churning emotions. Leonida alone could create such havoc. Usually without even trying.

So why did he not simply leave?

Stefan shook his head. The question had plagued him since leaving Meadowland, and he was still no closer to an answer. Perhaps he never would be.

“Huntley.”

Lost in his dark thoughts, Stefan jerked in surprise as the voice sounded from below the railing.

With a frown he moved to the edge of the terrace, peering over to discover Boris standing in the shadows.