Page 31 of Sinful Lies

“Some of our father’s old Russian properties were given over to him.”

Danil frowns. “A pay off?”

“There’s no official record, so it’s only speculative. But it’s likely. There’s no other logical reason why our father would have gotten rid of those properties.”

I glance at Alexei. “And you think it kept Igor quiet for a while, but not any longer?”

He nods, his face grave. “It’s why I couldn’t hold off telling you. We should prepare ourselves on the off chance that Igor decides our family hasn’t paid enough for the crimes of our father.”

I pray that Alexei is wrong, otherwise this situation with Massimo and his daughter will be the least of our worries.

Alexei might trust Frederik, but I need to know for myself.

I make a mental note to give my own PI, Rurik, a call on my way back to the city. Until I’m handed concrete proof, I won’t let the memory of my father be tainted by some ridiculous accusation.

After all, everyone is innocent until proven guilty.

8

ZARA

“I feel like a giant marshmallow.”I can barely stand to look at myself in the mirror.

I’m pale, and my eyes are red from lack of sleep. I’m about as far from a blushing bride as you can get.

“I think you look like a princess.” Emily sighs, clutching her hands to her chest as she gazes at me.

I look down at the big puffy tulle skirt and lace bodice and feel as if the air is being sucked out of my lungs.

Alexei pulled some strings and managed to get me a last-minute appointment at one of the most luxurious bridal boutiques in the city. It seems you can get in anywhere for the right price.

We’ve been taken to the VIP room at the back of the store where my own personal stylist, Clara, has set up a rack with potential dress options as well as boxes of shoes and countless veils.

It’s the epitome of luxury, with bottomless champagne and plates of mini macarons to enjoy while we browse the countless couture dresses.

My stomach churns as I think about how much money this wedding is going to cost, and it’s not even real.

The sight of all the wedding dresses on racks and the pictures of the blushing brides in the catalogs has me fighting the urge to vomit.

This wasn’t how it was supposed to be. I’m not meant to stare down at my engagement ring and feel such guilt. I’m meant to feel overjoyed at the thought of walking down the aisle and sayingI doto the man I love.

But sometimes, life throws you curveballs in the shape of Giovanni Saccone, and you do what you have to in order to survive in a man's world.

The wedding is only a week away, and there’s so much to do. Emily and Bianca are working overtime to help plan and organize everything.

I wish we could take our time, but Giovanni is becoming unbearable, and I’m starting to crack.

I’ve barely slept since he took over as my boss. The nightmares are following me everywhere, and I’m a nervous wreck, constantly looking over my shoulder.

The ring on my finger only made him laugh—as if he could see right through my façade.

I’m starting to worry that even when I am legally a Koslov, it won’t stop him, and the fake marriage will have all been for nothing.

“Are you not enjoying yourself?” Bianca steps up beside me to look in the mirror.

She takes a sip of her champagne as she looks over the dress.

It’s stunning, with a plunging neckline and lace sleeves.

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