Page 111 of Sinful Promise

I slip out of his arms and step into my heels. Irina showed me how to walk in them on the yacht. She also helped me with my makeup. And with Francesca’s fashionista’s eye, I’m more than pleased with how I look tonight.

“What do you think about giving us a go?” Roman asks.

“A go at what, exactly?” I’m no longer afraid to ask for what I want.

“Us.”

“Well, that would depend on a few things.”

“Like what?” he asks cautiously.

“Do you think I’m beautiful?” I turn to face him.

“Of course, how could I not?” His eyes hold my gaze as I slip the diamond earrings onto my lobes.

“Do you like to travel?”

“It’s the best. We’ve survived a road trip and being aboard a yacht for a week.”

“Did you mean it when you said you love me?” I ask.

“Unequivocally, yes.”

“Then I don’t know why we’re standing here discussing this. Let’s go to Italy. I hear they have Fra Divola. I also hear that Positano is incredible. We can get there by sea, right?”

“Music to my ears.” He beams, and his lips are so close to mine, I want to bite them. He slips his hand into his pocket and pulls out another box. “Then this is for you, Dasha.”

He holds the box and lifts the lid. I try to peer inside, but he snaps it shut, making me squeal in surprise.

I squint at him. He’s teasing me.

He grins and opens the box. A huge emerald ring is inside, surrounded by small diamonds set in gold.

“Will you marry me, Dasha? You’ll make me the happiest man alive.”

Considering how many we left dead in the living room, I want to enjoy life with the man I love.

“Oh, Roman,” I exclaim. “Yes.”

He slides the ring on my finger.

“I told you, I’m a man of my word.” He waits for my eyes to meet his. “I will love you until the day I die.”

“I love you, Roman Volkov.” I smile, remembering his promise to replace the ring that contained a tracker with an emerald.

So far, he’s kept all his promises.

39

DASHA

The Casino in Monte Carlo is not just one casino but many. The enormous compound sits facing the sea, and the glitz and glamour make it worthy of the buzz it generates. Expensive sports cars and limos are seen for miles, Lamborghinis and McLarens waiting for staff to park them. Attendants dressed in the hotel colors of red and gold rush to and fro to service everyone as quickly as possible.

I fidget with my earring. My clutch purse rests in my lap.

“Stop, you’re perfect.” Roman gently takes my hand from the dangling jewels. “This should be fun.”

I take a deep breath. “I think I’m still processing tonight’s events.”

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