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“Boyfriend?”

“Ana…” he grumbles. “No, no one. I’m too busy for that shit.”

“But you made time for me,” I say softly, then move closer.

His eyes reflect the flames as he stares up at me. “Yes, I did.” He finally relents.

That brings out my best smile.

I bend over and wrap my arms around his neck so my lips are near his cheek. “You’re already on one knee. How badly do you want to see me in that dress?”

He tilts his nose up to rub it along the length of my neck, breathing me in deeply with the slow stroke. “You’re putting it on in the morning. First light.” The wood in his grip creaks with how fiercely he squeezes it.

Nervous energy courses through me. “Tomorrow?” I squeak.

I let go and step back. I didn’t think he’d do it.

He nods and pushes the stove shut, then slides up onto the couch. “After that, you’re mine, iskorka.”

I can feel his eyes on me the whole way back to my room.

What did I do?

And why am I excited?

CHAPTER 17

MIKHAIL

She wants to play a game?I always win.

I own a casino for fuck’s sake. That’s not by chance. I showed up in Vegas with only my family and what little money I smuggled from my father when we fled.

Everything else, I built from the ground up.

If she thinks I won’t take what I want, she’s sorely mistaken.

But taking her hand would be quite the devastation to Ivan.

Screw him.

“You have got to be joking.” Enzo breaks into laughter on the other end. “You want to marry her? This morning?”

“Make it happen.” I can’t think about anything else but her. I might get tired of her later, but Ineedher like I’ve never wanted anyone before.

The drive within me to break her is worth the vows.

“Are you drunk? Did she drug you?” Enzo takes on a serious tone. “Put me on video.”

“What the hell? No, she didn’t.” It takes me twice, but I click the camera on.

“Hold it up to your eyes, let me see them.” His own get so close to the lens all I can see are his dark lashes.

“Jesus Christ, Enzo. I’m fine.” I glower at him.

He smirks as he gets into view. “I thought that would be the only explanation. I can’t wait to tell Frankie this shit.”

“Leave him out of this. That’s the last thing I need.” I’ve had a good working relationship with Frankie Falcone for years.

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