Page 61 of The Councilor

The funny thing was that I could almost read a few of the women’s minds. Maybe they’d been jealous when I’d been assigned to such a sexy Russian. From what I knew of the other partner, Roman Whitfield, the man was a shark but not nearly as good looking. I was trying not to draw any attention to myself. I certainly didn’t want anyone to ask questions at this point because I had no idea what I was supposed or allowed to say.

I buried myself in gathering the last of the documents for court, which was in session in barely over an hour. Judges didn’t like tardiness, usually making it difficult for all parties involved.

I’d seen a portion of a news bulletin when I’d walked in, reporters already camping out on the steps of the courthouse. I’d forgotten the defendant was a US congressman.

The city did thrive on whatever rabid dog case was presented to them. A huge, juicy bone had been tossed in their direction. We had to be on our game.

I was trying to absorb everything I’d learned about the unexpected witness, which was why I didn’t notice I had a colleague standing in front of my desk until she cleared her throat. As I slowly lifted my head, it became apparent the woman had been used as a scapegoat to find out the scoop.

“Raphaella. You’ve been busy.” Her voice was cooing, trying to entice me into her web. That wasn’t going to work. I was no fool.

Jasmine had been nice to a point, but it was apparent inside this firm jealousy was abundant. “I’m working on an important case. I put my all into my assignment.”

“That’s not what I mean.” I sensed at least a few of the other girls were ready to either laugh or launch into me. God. You’d think I stole their man from them.

“Then what do you mean? We leave for court in ten minutes and I still have a few things to do.”

She had her arms folded in an obviously defensive stance. What the fuck had I ever done to any of these people, stolen the most eligible bachelor?

“Rumor has it you’re engaged to Mr. Semenov. Is that true?”

Of course her tone was accusatory but that’s not what bothered me as much as that the information that had already leaked. How? In my mind, there was only one way. My father. He wanted me as uncomfortable as possible.

“I’m curious,” I said, throwing attitude back at her. “Where did you hear something like that?”

“Oh, I have my sources.” She stared at me as if she was going to cry then burst into laughter. “You really don’t know what’s being said. Do you?”

“I have no clue what you’re talking about.”

She pulled out her phone, grumbling under her breath. The way she was tapping her phone indicated she was angry as hell. Fine. Whatever.

“Here. Take a look. This is one of several articles and headlines floating out there.” She thrust the phone out at me, keeping a firm hold as I lowered my gaze. The headline was mortifying but not completely because of the topic.

Is the World’s Most Eligible Bachelor Off the Market?

That alone was damning enough but it was the photograph someone had managed to take when we were inside the icecream store than sent shivers down my spine. We’d been followed, watched, and likely photographed in several locations.

“This means nothing,” I said, pushing her hand away. “We were working. You know how reporters can be.” I was cringing inside even while I tried to laugh as if she was being silly. But I needed to tell my boss what was being said before we walked out in public. I could only imagine the accusations.

“You’re a mafia princess. The goddamn daughter of one of the most merciless men in the city. At least according to the article. Is that true?”

Now I was starting to seethe.

“So what if I am? I live my own life. I have my own set of friends and a job I enjoy, which I intend on keeping, so I suggest you run along.” I even whisked my hand in front of her like motioning her away.

She stood right where she was before leaning over, planting her hands on the surface of my desk. “Be very careful, princess. You are being watched. Monitored. So is your ruthless boyfriend. You’ll never know when to expect it, but a venomous snake is hiding in the dark, wet grass just waiting to unfurl and strike.”

“What?” Her threat wasn’t anything I would have expected but I sensed it was very real. Who was she? Or a more appropriate question was who was she attached to? “Don’t threaten me, Jasmine. You won’t like what happens if that behavior continues.”

“Oh, I’m scared. One last warning. You don’t want to be around when Mr. Semenov takes a leap off a cliff. I assure you that he’ll suck you down with him.”

With that, she turned on her heel and walked away.

What in the hell was she insinuating?

CHAPTER 18

Aleksander

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