Page 16 of Sinful Lies

If it means not having to marry Lucia Conti, then it’s worth it.

The next step is announcing our engagement to our families.

I meet Zara after work on Monday for a drink at the Russian Tea Rooms to discuss a plan.

Alexei has been blowing my phone up all day, demanding to talk through this arrangement with Massimo Conti, but I’ve silenced all of his calls.

His name flashing on my phone is a reminder that I’m running out of time. I only hope that Zara hasn’t changed her mind in the two days since we made our deal.

If she backs out, I don’t have a plan B.

I order us both a drink, and I’m almost finished with my vodka by the time Zara arrives. I’ve chosen a private booth toward the back of the restaurant, away from any prying ears.

“Have you been waiting long?”

She looks stunning in a dark green dress to match her eyes, her long, blonde hair in loose waves around her shoulders. Her cheeks are flushed, and she’s breathing heavily as if she’s run here.

I clear my throat and offer her an easy smile.

“Not long at all.”

She slides into the booth opposite, setting her purse down on the table.

I slide the vodka martini toward her.

“Figured you might need one.”

“You have no idea…” She lifts the frosted glass to her lips, taking a long sip.

“How bad was it today?”

Zara shrugs before taking another sip. She’sdownplaying this situation with Giovanni. It’s written all over her face.

“Let’s not talk about work.”

I ball my hands into fists beneath the table to stop myself reaching for her.

Zara places her hands on the table in front of her. “We need to discuss how we’re going to announce this.”

“We could just go down to city hall and get it over with.”

Zara’s eyes widen, and I realize that might be a little too quick for her liking.

“Or not.”

“I don’t think your brothers would be too pleased to learn you got married without even telling them.”

“Alexei, yes. Danil and Mikhail? They’d be more annoyed that they didn’t get a chance to throw me a bachelor party.”

“Do you want a bachelor party?”

“My life is one big bachelor party,” I joke.

“You’re a pig.” She scoffs.

“Just being honest,pcholka.”

“What is that you keep calling me?” She frowns.

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