Chapter 13

I wonder where Nicky could have gone. He was pissed when he saw Alexei calling. Storming off and leaving me here; alone. I suddenly feel cold, realizing I miss his heat. I shouldn't have picked up the phone. I should have just ignored it. Frantically trying to get changed and go after him. Nicky honestly didn't want me to give Alexei my number. What does he think would happen? I rush out of the changing rooms.

A sigh of relief escapes my mouth when I find him just outside the room. He is sitting on the couch with his hands intertwined in front of him. I start to worry again when he doesn't look at me. He just stands up and walks towards the front doors. I carefully follow behind him.

He still helps me into the car. Now I'm not so sure if he does it out of kindness or if he just considers it his job. I have no idea on how to approach him. I've always been a little cautious of men. I'm afraid if you provoke them enough, they might hurt you. Which is why I've always done what I was told.

Why do I keep testing his limits? Regretting my prior decision, I cautiously place my hand on Nicky's thigh while he drives. He might have not expected me to do that because his whole body tenses; I flinch in response. He takes a deep breath.

"Why is Alexei calling you?"

"I don't know, I didn't pick up."

He pulls the car over. We are still in the city; a block or two over from where we had gone shopping. Nicky shifts his body so he can face me.

"No, I mean why does he have your number? Why did you give it to him?"

"He asked me again when he was over earlier. He said just in case I ever need him to help again." I choked with tears forming in my eyes.

"You don't need Alexei's help. I'm always here for you. It's my job to take care of you." He fumes, hitting the top of the steering wheel with his palm.

There is silence between the two of us when he sighs, "Do you like funny guys? Am I too serious for you?" This time he is facing out the window avoiding my gaze.

I'm stunned; he was actually jealous. It's a cute revelation so I giggle a little. His brows ruffle in my direction.

"I guess Alexei is funny, but he is more of a friend. I haven't had a friend in a long time, that's why I gave him my number."

"You don't have any friends?" Concern in his eyes.

"Right now? not really; not since I was a child. Before we married, I wasn't really allowed to go anywhere or see anyone. I've mostly spent my days alone or with my father. Sometimes he would hire guards or people to care for me, but they weren't allowed to speak to me."

"That's probably why I've never met you before."

"Yes, I especially wasn't allowed around my father's business."

"Does that make me your first?" A little glimmer in his eyes as he teases.

"You're my husband, not my friend." I say tilting my head.

His face forms a frown, "We can still be friends."

I look into his eyes, "You want to be my friend?"

"Yes of course, I really enjoy our time together. I hope you do as well."

My face feels a little hot when I respond, "I do" meanwhile tears form in my eyes. This time it's all from happiness. I haven't experienced any of these things in a long time.