Taken By Nikolai

“Take him,” I instruct. “I want answers.” I have a lot of questions and by the wide eyes and pale face I have a feeling he’ll be forthcoming. Of course that won’t help him. He’s going to die either way.

Stefan and Konstantin take the fucker that’s left standing; he’ll be the one to lead us to Adele. My gaze fills with a red haze as I stare at the woman that means the most to me. The woman that I love.

My breath catches at my thought. Do I? Fuck yes. I love her.

“Nik,“ Ilya says low as I step up to Lena’s battered body. “I’ll call the doctor, have him meet us at the house.”

“We’re taking her to the hospital.” My tone filled with authority. He knows better than to argue with me. I want the best care for her no matter what my men think. Going to the hospital raises questions, but my only worry is for Lena.

“Let’s go then,” he says and that’s why he’s my closest friend, my right hand. He’s got my back constantly.

I’m careful as I walk down the stairs so as not to jostle her. She’s unconscious, her head lulling against my arm. This is the fucking second time that I’ve seen her like this and it’s two times too many. Ilya is already in the car by the time I get outside. I’m careful putting her into the vehicle, I climb in beside her and hold on.

For the first time in over thirty years, I say a prayer.

I pray for her to be okay.

Never did I think I’d find a woman that would make me put her above all else. But the moment I saw Lena, I knew she was the one.

I can’t lose her.

It’s not a fucking option.