Forced to Cooperate Read online

  The light breeze was welcoming, the full moon shimmering against a backdrop of lights, all highlighting the nation’s capital. For so many the city was a place of reverence, a location where democracy had been formed, the basics of human rights forged from the evils of war.

  In my native country, battles were fought every day, men and women vying to maintain their existence amongst the harshest of conditions. I’d been lucky, my family afforded a great honor. Now it had been threatened by the same bastards who’d allowed our freedom.

  And Peter was a part of the dark realm.

  “Some say wishing on a star will make all your dreams come true,” Willow mused as she pointed up toward the sky.

  “I have no wishes that anyone will ever fulfill.”

  “You don’t have a single dream, a hope that keeps you going?” she pressed.

  My skin prickled at the thought. “There is no room for dreaming in my profession. That can only make you weak, allowing your enemies the possibility of taking away everything that matters.”

  “You sound like a broken man, Aleksei. What destroyed your faith in humanity?”

  I exhaled, my grip on the glass white-knuckled. “I never had any faith. I always knew the grim reaper would snake out his claws one day, destroying the precious and tentative hold on life.”

  “How very sad. I fear for your soul but only you can make a change in your life. No one else.”

  Her words were true enough, but the circumstances around doing so were impossible. I lifted my glass in a toast to the eventuality of what would occur. Fighting the Solntsevskayas would take everything I had. I doubted I would be comfortable with our losses even if we won. “You speak of truths.”

  Willow kept her position, but her body relaxed. “The truth is also important to me. I remember very little about my parents, but one thing my father used to say was that truth would set you free. I’ve been chained my entire life, required to fulfill duties that I had no choice in.”

  I fingered the paperwork that I’d had in my jacket since prior to leaving for the evening. What Maksim had discovered could rock her world. “There are some things you need to know.”

  She took a sip of her wine before moving the glass from hand to hand. “I accept the fact my brother is involved in criminal activity. I also realize that you’re hiding certain details, no doubt in order to protect me. I learned a long time ago that Peter was not the most honorable man, but it was my choice to ignore all the signs. That guilt is entirely on my shoulders. The fact innocent people likely died because of the drugs he brought into the country sickens me more every day. I can’t fathom the tragedy, the horrors that so many families are going through. I am sickened at heart, disgusted with myself. There is nothing you can say that will change that fact. Nothing.”

  I removed my hand from my jacket pocket and took calculated steps closer. “You had no way of knowing the full effect. Peter was a master at hiding his illegal business practices.”

  She sighed and darted a glance in my direction. “I knew. I fell into his trap. I am as much to blame as the man who pretends to care about me. My own brother.”

  There was nothing to solve by shattering the rest of her world, at least not tonight. She would need to learn the full truth prior to the meeting, but while I’d always fashioned myself to be a heartless man, this I refused to do. I crowded her space, taking the glass from her hand. “I’m so sorry that your life has been turned upside down.”

  “Are you really? I’m just a thing to you.”

  Swallowing, I thought about my response instead of simply retorting. “What I said before was all true. You are very important to me, Willow. I didn’t plan on caring about you. I certainly didn’t want to carry the same burden of guilt that you seem to have. I’m a cold and merciless man, one capable of doing horrible things, but when I’m around you, nothing else matters.”

  She wrinkled her nose, closing her eyes briefly. “I want so much to believe you. Every little girl wants to find a hero in her life, but I’m through with being a fool. When tomorrow is finished, I hope you will honor your deal and simply let me go. I’m not strong enough to handle anything else.”

  “Lovely lady, you’re much stronger than you realize.” Using just my index finger, I tipped her head, forcing her to look into my eyes. There was so much sorrow built between us, two lives that had never been allowed to be free. I lowered my head, wanting desperately to have her in my arms.

  When she pushed her hand against my chest, her body stiffening, a cold chill wafted down my spine. We were irrevocably broken.

  “Will you honor the deal?” she asked.

  I wanted to refuse, every instinct and desire brimming the surface. Instead, I took a step away, breaking the last connection I knew we’d have. “Yes, I will.”

  She nodded several times, took another glance toward the sky then smiled. “Thank you.”

  I watched as she walked back into the suite, moving quickly toward the bedroom and closing the door. The dull ache in my heart was deserved. I remained on the balcony, leaning over the railing and studying the night sky. I’d always been a dreamer, a young boy longing to become an astronaut. I’d spent countless hours with one of the few presents that I prized, a telescope. I knew every constellation, every story behind the various beautiful stars. I’d even mentioned to my father my aspirations only to be laughed at.

  The next day, the telescope had been removed from my room. I’d found it in the trash two days later, smashed beyond recognition.

  Sighing, I shifted the glass from hand to hand, wondering what my life would be like had I been able to follow my dreams instead of being forced to honor nightmares. Still today, a small amount of hope remained in my system, but not for anything having to do with my life.

  I’d accepted my fate long ago, making peace with the outcome. What I refused to tolerate was having the few people I cared about dragged into hell.

  Including Willow.

  The thought was perhaps far too revealing, yet another weakness. So be it.

  I headed into the suite, locking the door behind me. While I honestly didn’t believe Peter would take a chance at a high-profile kill, I wasn’t going to allow for the opportunity. I glared at the couch before easing down. I’d slept on cement floors on several occasions, but tonight, even the plushness of the cushions seemed cold. Using the remote, I turned off the remaining lights, enjoying the glow of the city lights as well as the bright moon.

  Dreams. I almost laughed at the thought. They were more like fantasies that could never come true. I had sold my soul to the devil and still, he wanted more. I had no more to give.

  After finishing off my drink and sliding the glass on the table, I jerked off my coat and tie, unbuttoning and rolling up my sleeves. The Glock was placed on the corner of the table, within easy reach. I never slept soundly. No one would be able to get into the suite without my knowledge.

  My body was stiff, tension shifting through every cell and muscle as I attempted to lie down. There was far too much adrenaline for me to even consider falling asleep; however, I’d learned the importance of rest. After a few seconds, I forced myself to close my eyes, exhaustion taking over.

  “Did you forget our dinner date?” she asked, giving me a pointed look.

  I walked into my office, my cock immediately twitching. She sat on the edge of my desk, her delicate arms swept out to the sides, the flowered dress whimsical in design. So perfect for the woman I adored. “How could I ever forget anything that has to do with you, my love?” I inched closer, finally revealing what I had behind my back.

  “Mmmm... You know what they say about a man plying a girl with her favorite flowers?” she purred, her eyes lighting up.

  “No, what do they say?” I teased.

  “That the man is guilty for something.”

  “Hmmm...” I twirled the sterling silver roses back and forth, giving them a harsh look. “Would you like me to take them back? I certainly will.” I took backwards step
s, trying not to smile.

  She rushed forward, yanking them out of my hand, her laughter filling the expansive space. “Don’t you dare!”

  My eyes snapped open, but not from the beautiful memory. My hand was immediately around the gun as I jerked to a standing position. Whoever had broken in certainly had balls.

  “I suggest you stop right where you are.” I was prepared to take the shot.

  “Or you’re going to shoot me?” Willow asked in a small voice, a hint of fear in the tone.

  I managed to turn on a light, my heart beating rapidly. The vision in front of me couldn’t be real. Willow. She stood in an exquisite silk gown, the emerald color accentuating every dazzling feature on her beautiful face, the material hugging every curve in a soft and vulnerable manner. She was barefooted, her long hair spilling out over her shoulders.

  “I could have killed you,” I barked, immediately placing the gun on the table.

  “But you didn’t.” She crept closer. There were so many questions in her eyes as well as something I never thought I’d see, the kind of desire that was interwoven with deep feelings.

  Her presence was startling, my body’s reaction instantaneous. I wanted her. Desperately. But I turned away, realizing she’d made her decision before. “Is there something wrong? Do you need something?”

  I heard the slight rustle as she walked closer.

  “Yes and yes,” she whispered.

  Swallowing, I lifted my head, eyeing her outstretched arm. “What?”

  “You.”

  Only once in my life had I allowed my guard to fall completely, to toss away the killer, the dangerous man. I knew our odds at even remaining alive. This wasn’t a sound decision by any means.

  But there was no turning back.

  I grasped her hand, yanking her against my chest, tangling my fingers in her hair. “Do you have any idea what you do to me? Do you know how much I hunger for you?”

  “Just as much as I long for your touch, your powerful kisses. You touch me like no other man has before. I can’t stop thinking about you, dreaming about being in your arms. I need you, Aleksei. I understand all the ramifications. I realize that this is a terrible idea, but I don’t give a damn. I. Need. You.”

  I placed my finger across her lips, shaking my head. “If we do this, there’s no going back. You could die.”

  “Then protect me.”

  Everything seemed to come to a head; all the anger and sadness from the past, all the worry about any kind of a future. Right here and now meant everything. Cupping both sides of her face, I pulled her onto her tiptoes as I lowered my head. “You are precious. You also belong to me. Any man who ever tries to lay a hand on you will die. I give you my oath.” I captured her mouth, keeping my lips pressed against her, the moment sweet and loving. Something I wasn’t used to in any manner. I was the asshole, the bastard who destroyed lives. Not tonight. Tonight, I would become her hero.

  She wrapped her arms around my neck, toying with my hair as she slipped her tongue past my lips, moaning into the kiss. Every beautiful move of her body was seductive, drawing me further into her web.

  I craved her.

  I wanted every inch of her.

  I had to own her.

  My mind was sent into another place, forgetting all about my duties or the danger presented to us as the kiss became a manic moment of raw passion. I dug my fingers into her skin, taking back control, my tongue dominating hers. Then I crushed her body against mine, longing to feel the heat of her body, her rapidly beating heart.

  Even as mine expanded for the first time in years.

  I’d never felt this way, embroiled in such utter bliss, my blood pulsing as the fire ignited once again. I wrapped my arms around her, one arm cradling her bottom as I lifted her off her feet.

  She threw her legs around me as the intimacy continued, our actions becoming more frantic, both crazed with desire.

  I swung her around in a full circle, the taste of her luscious. I could never get enough. Even the scent of her exotic perfume became intoxicating, infusing every cell. I carried her into the bedroom, somehow cognizant that she’d lit several candles in preparation. The warm glow was almost as inviting as the woman herself.

  Almost.

  I eased her onto her feet, breaking the connection only long enough to drag the shirt over my shoulders, tossing the unwanted material to the floor. As I advanced again, my cock ached to be inside of her, my tongue longing to taste her sweet juice. I found it difficult to breathe or even keep my control as I brushed the tip of my index finger across her forehead.

  Willow studied me, her lips curving in a smile as I traced the delicate bones in her face, her chest rising and falling with every touch.

  “You can be so gentle,” she whispered, her eyes closing when I rolled my finger along her jawline, moving ever so slowly toward her pursed lips.

  “You bring out the best in me.” My voice was husky, dripping with increased lust, the savage buried deep inside already brimming the surface. I knew I couldn’t hold back for long, but I craved to explore every inch of her, taking my time to ride the building desire.

  “Mmm... I’ll keep that in mind.” Her body swayed forward and backward, the shimmer in her gown illuminated by every move.

  I drew a circle around her lips before moving to her chin and down the long line of her neck. She had the most perfect features: strong bones and luscious skin that danced in every light, no matter how harsh. I slipped my finger under the slender strap, easing the material down her arm.

  She shuddered, soft mews escaping her lips. “You make me feel so beautiful.”

  “That’s because you are.” I moved to her other shoulder, sliding the strap down, dragging my finger along the length of her arm. I held my breath seeing the goosebumps that popped along every inch of her skin, another highlight of the incredible beauty. As gravity began to take the gown to the floor, a light flush crept along her jaw, blooming along the base of her cheeks.

  Another moan slipped past her lips as she shimmied her hips until the material fell to the floor. All I wanted to do was devour her, taking every hole as mine, making certain she knew that I was now her owner.

  Forever.

  There would be no compromise.

  There would be no discussion.

  She merely belonged to me.

  As she stepped out of the gown, she quivered visibly, her eyelids fluttering open and closed. I continued my exploration, brushing the tip of my finger down the side of her breast, sliding underneath and moving to the other. With the lightest touch, I encircled her nipple, holding my breath as her already hardened bud began to swell even more.

  She took several deep breaths, reaching out to drag her fingers over my chest. My reaction was just as enigmatic, every cell on fire, my body erupting with electricity, my breathing shallow. She had the ability to consume me with her provocative and tantalizing nature, her bravado that had kept her alive during all these years.

  A subtle yet powerful chuckle slid up from her throat, her eyes mere slits as she used both hands to tempt me, running her fingers across my skin. How could a single woman have this kind of effect on me? How could she force my defenses to fall in such a short period of time?

  The truth didn’t need to be found. What we shared was far too special to question.

  Willow cocked her head, a wry smile crossing her face as she caressed my abdomen, her fingers dancing over my muscles. I could tell her mind was reeling, contemplating the possibilities. When her hands fell to my belt, I growled, delighting her.

  “You’re not in control, my sweet cherie.”

  “Willow. My name is Willow,” she countered. “And I don’t want to be in control.”

  I took calculated steps around her, my fingers never leaving her skin, the tips moving over her shoulder and rolling down her spine. “I’m glad to hear that or I’d have to give you a much needed spanking.” I could still see the slight blush from my earlier spanking, although the redness
had quickly faded.

  My mouth watered at the thought of her wearing my marks, stripes that would remind her who was her master. But that was for another time. I drank in her scent, the fragrance filling my nostrils, making my cock ache and my balls tighten. Exhaling, I allowed my fingers to fall between the cleft of her ass to just underneath her rounded bottom. A perfect hourglass shape. Exquisitely long legs. Crimson painted toenails.

  I was crazed with longing, the beast clawing to be freed. When I moved back to face her, I noticed her dreamy expression, a slight pout crested on her lips. I took a step away, kicking off my shoes and wasting no time removing the rest of my clothing.

  All the while she watched me, perhaps taking pride in her own level of ownership. No other woman would ever touch me again. I’d never desired a wife and a mistress. That wasn’t the kind of man I wanted to be. No matter the perks, the untold requirements of being a member of the Bratva, all I needed was the incredible woman standing in front of me.

  The growl erupting from my lips came from the darkest part of my very soul, the sound like a battle cry. I lifted her into the air, holding her aloft as her long hair dangled over my face. “What do you want, my sweet Willow?”

  “Everything.”

  Every muscle was tense, the rush of blood hampering my breathing. I eased her onto the bed, crawling over her as I lowered my head. “Then everything you will have.” Taking my time, I lowered my head until our lips barely touched. “But you will obey me.”

  “Why, yes, sir.” Her subtle laugh was another method of seduction, a hint at her bratty behavior.

  A tease.

  A vixen.

  All mine.

  I pressed kisses along her chin and neck, rolling my lips down between her luscious breasts, fire burning in my belly. Soon, I wouldn’t be able to hold back the firestorm. I dragged the edge of my teeth to her right nipple, swirling my tongue around in lazy circles.

  She arched her back, her fingers curling in my hair.

  “No touching,” I commanded, giving her a heated look.

  “No fair. Sir.” But she obeyed, lifting her arms over her head, her body remaining in a deep arc as I sucked on her nipple. “So good.”