Crave (Beneath The Secrets #3)

73. Lara

CHAPTER 73

LARA

A month?

I swear the only reason I’m alive is to keep these birds healthy. Mikhail told me to take as much time as I need, and I am.

When was the last time I went to work? Two weeks ago?

I can’t remember.

It’s harder to pay attention without Alexei here.

He would keep me on task. Always with which show he wanted us to watch, or which concert to go to.

Now, there’s nothing.

A blank schedule, and an empty bed.

With a hollow heart.

He was the only one for me. He accepted me for all my faults.

There won’t be another.

It takes most of my energy, but I pull one of Alexei’s downy white comforters from his bed out onto the day sofa near the glass door overlooking the veranda.

I can watch the flamingos from here.

Do they have enough food?

They should. I think I checked this morning.

Or, last night?

My head is fuzzy. I’m just so tired. I think I’ll take a little nap and then make sure they’re okay.

Curling the pillow closer, I struggle to smell Alexei on it anymore.

Is that how long a memory lingers? Only a month?

I let my tears stain the satin. Might as well let the pain replace him.

It’s the only thing that can.