Chapter 30
Ivan's expression melted into something close to pity. He wrapped an arm around her and held her close. For once she accepted his comfort without putting up a struggle. She tucked her head beneath his chin and wrapped her arms around his waist. She felt a slight jolt of surprise go through him at her acquiescence, the first time since they'd met. Then he tightened his grip on her and gave her all the warm strength she could hope for. When they surfaced from the hug, he led her back into the room and sat her down on the bed.
"Answer as best you can, as truthfully as you can," he said gruffly, his voice softer now.
She nodded.
"When did you meet your adoptive father?"
She thought about it. There was no reason to withhold the information. "When I was thirteen."
He nodded and winced a little before smoothing his expression back to its usual granite. "Shortly after your family was killed then," he said. "You met him in Mumbai?"