Page 39 of Vengeful Embers

“Konstantin,” Gavriil finishes grimly.

“Why would he take it?”

“Because that is what he does,” Gavriil tells me. “He is only loyal to two people. Ruslan and himself.” He gives me a reassuring smile. “Don’t worry, I’ll sort it out when we’re home.”

Gavriil takes his seat, and I leave him to get on with some work

My phone is in my hand before I realize I’ve moved. I want to contact Konstantin. I want to get the sonogram back, but I also want to ask him the real reason he’s so interested in the puzzle box. I toy with the idea of getting Gavriil's phone and seeing if he has the number, but he seems pretty busy on it.

I do know someone who can help me, though.

I start texting:Sam, can you get me a number for Konstantin Romanov?

Sam: Hey, kiddo.Please tell me you’re not serious, or it's not Konstantin Romanov who works for Irina’s brother.

Me:He took something of mine and I want it back.

Five minutes later, the number pops up.

I stare at the screen, then start typing to Konstantin:You have my sonogram. I want it back.

Konstantin:Hello, Miss Craft. If you want it, come get it. Alone.

Me:I’m on a plane back to Vegas.

Konstantin:That was a short trip.

Me:Send it to me.

Konstantin:Call me when you land.

Me:How do I know you won’t give it to your boss?

Konstantin:You don’t. But I won’t.

Me:Why do I feel like you want something in return?

Konstantin:Call me when you’re free of your watchdog. Safe flight.

When I get home, it’s just after seven.

I make tea, curl up on the couch, and dial.

“Hello, Tara,” Konstantin answers smoothly. “Did you have a good flight?”

“No. Because of you,” I say. “I was all anxious, wondering if you were going to stick to your word and not give Ruslan Dragunov that photo.”

“Being anxious is not good for the baby,” he says. “And I told you I wouldn’t give it to him or mention it.”

“I want my sonogram back.”

“Let’s make a trade,” Konstantin suggests.

“What do you want?”

“Tell me about the puzzle box,” Konstantin says.

“Tell me what you know about it first,” I counter.

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