Page 89 of Turmoil's Target

I can’t take that chance.

“On second thought, it’s probably better if they come here,” I say in a low voice. “Considering the situation with your mom... We shouldn’t be seen out and about too much, in case word gets back to her that you’re playing both sides. Best not to raise suspicions.”

Seraphina’s face clouds, but she nods. “You’re right, of course. Having them here would be lovely.” She gives a slightly strained smile.

“Hey.” I tip her chin up. “I promise I’ll wine and dine you properly soon, baby. Get out of Nevada, take you out on the town, treat you like the queen you are.”

“I’ll hold you to that,” she murmurs, her smile warming.

Rising on her toes, she brushes a feather-light kiss across my jaw.

My fingers flex on her hip.

With great reluctance, I tear myself away to tap out a response to my mother:

Why don’t you and the girls come to the clubhouse instead? Maybe in an hour or two? We’ll have food and drinks here. Seraphina is dying to meet you.

After hitting send, I shoot Seraphina a grin. “Hope you’re ready for the Morozov tornado, babe. My family is...a lot.”

Seraphina just laughs. “Don’t worry, I think I can handle them.”

“That may be true, but you’ve never met a force of nature like my little sisters before...”

My phone pings with a response from my mother almost immediately.

Wonderful idea! The girls and I will be there in an hour. Can’t wait to meet this Seraphina of yours! Shoot me the address.

I chuckle and show Seraphina the message. “Told you. Hurricane Morozov incoming.”

“Well then, I best batten down the hatches and prepare.” Seraphina quips, eyes sparkling with mirth.

She taps a finger against her crimson lips. “Hmm, what to make for dinner... I could whip up some traditional English fare for your family. Give them a little taste of my heritage.”

“You don’t have to go to any trouble,krasivaya,” I say, tucking an errant strand of golden hair behind her ear. “I’m sure they’ll love whatever you make.”

Seraphina swats my hand away playfully. “Nonsense. I want to make a good impression. It’s not every day I meet my boyfriend’s family.”

Boyfriend.

The word sends a thrill through me, even as a pang of guilt chases on its heels.

“Well, far be it from me to stand in the way of a woman on a mission,” I say, holding up my hands in mock surrender. “Need any help in the kitchen?”

Seraphina tosses me a cheeky wink. “I think I can manage. Though I may put you to work setting the table later.”

With that, she turns and saunters toward the kitchen, hips swaying enticingly.

I watch her go, a dopey smile on my face.

How did I get so lucky?

But I know luck has nothing to do with it.

Seraphina is a once-in-a-lifetime woman.

Strong, brilliant, passionate.

She’s a bright flame, and I’m just a moth drawn to her fire, ready to be consumed.

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