Page 59 of Emerald Malice

“I’m your insurance policy, you mean.”

She smiles cryptically. “I’d say you’re rather more than that. You’re my brother-in-law. Maybe one day, we can even be friends.”

There’s no trace of flirtation there. It’s more strategic than anything else. An alliance.

“And if I refuse to protect you?”

Her smile remains unchanged. “Then I’ll do what I want regardless. But I’ll do it loud and proud, out in the open for the world to see. I’ll make a cuckold of your brother and I’ll enjoy doing it. Either way, I win.”

“It seems I’ve underestimated you, Mila.”

“People frequently do.”

“Very well.” I nod in permission. “You have my support.”

Her cheeks burn. “Thank you.”

“Don’t thank me yet,” I warn. “Even favors amongst family have a price.”

She leans back against the armchair. “What do you need from me?”

“Information.” My head swivels in the direction of the pool house. Its sloping roof can be seen over the grass of the lawn. “I have a guest at the moment. I need you to befriend her, make sure she has company.”

Mila rises to her feet and walks towards the window. “And report back to you?”

“Precisely.”

She smiles, and again, I’m struck by the depth in her I never bothered to notice before. I can’t say I hate it. It’s nice to know there are other cunning people in the world—especially when they’re willing to play along.

“I’ll be in touch.”

21

NATALIA

“Do it, Natalia!” I scold myself. “Just freaking do it!”

I’ve spent all day trying to drum up the courage to rip the bandage off and tell Aunt Annie about my pregnancy.

She raised you after your parents died. She took you in and loved you like you were her own. You owe her the truth. Don’t be such a wuss!

I’ve known for a week now; I’ve been living in Andrey’s pool house for almost as long. Enough is enough.

I need to tell my aunt.

I dial Aunt Annie’s number and spend the next five seconds hoping—like the coward I am—that she won’t pick up.

“Nic-Nat!” she greets. “I was wondering when you’d call.”

“Sorry, Aunt Annie. I’ve been busy.”

“I was worried you took me too seriously the last time. I wasn’t complaining about all your calls, you know.”

“I know, I know,” I assure her. “This is on me. I really have been busy.”

“Well, then, that’s a good enough reason to ignore your batty old aunt,” she chuckles. “I want you to live your life, my darling girl. If you’re busy, that’s good news.”

I find a shady spot under one of my favorite red sycamores and slide down the trunk to the soft ground. “So, um—” Just do it! “—how are you?”

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