Page 210 of Bride By Coronation

"Can't wait for your wedding," I add, winking.

His face hardens again.

I spin toward Kirill. "Ready?"

His gaze darts between Valentina and Brax, then he looks at me quizzically, like he can't believe this is happening.

I repeat, "I'm tired. I want to go home." I tilt my head and offer a tiny smile.

With a sigh, he hugs Valentina and shakes Brax's hand. "We'll discuss this in more detail back in Chicago."

"What's to discuss?" Valentina frets.

"Nothing," I assure her, then squeeze Kirill's hand.

He glances at me.

"Correct?" I ask.

Something passes in his expression.

"Kirill?" Valentina asks in a low voice.

I wink at him.

He takes a deep breath, then points at them. "The Omni will insist on proof your love is real, and you must marry on the next full moon. If there is any doubt, you know the consequences."

My insides quiver.

Brax clenches his jaw.

Valentina affirms, "Yes. We understand. There won't be any issues. We'll prove how in love we are, won't we?" She glances at Brax.

He stays quiet.

Kirill peers closer at Brax. "And what about you? Will there be any issues? The last thing I want is Valentina dead, so tell me now before this goes any further."

Valentina glances at me with anxiety.

I interject, "Nah. He'll make sure it goes smoothly. Won't you, Brax?" My lips twitch.

His gaze slides to me.

I arch my eyebrows.

"I'm waiting for an answer," Kirill warns.

He lifts his head and smacks his palm against Valentina's ass.

She jumps with a gasp.

He grins at her. "No issues. Can't wait to be tied to this little minx for eternity."

"See. All good," I chirp, then pull on Kirill's arm. "Let's go home."

He studies them for another moment, and then his lips curve. "Then I guess congratulations are in order." He kisses the top of my head. "Let's go home."

I flick my fingers in a wave, smirking. "Bye-bye, lovebirds. Can't wait to have a double date with our soon-to-be-married besties."

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