Page 122 of Scarlet Secrets

“That’s good to know,” he mutters. “Personally, I think you and Demyan are made for each other.”

I start to turn away.

“For what it’s worth, Erin, he wasn’t pleased.”

“About getting himself a backup fiancée?” I ask, snapping back to look at him. “Oh, good, then that’s settled.”

He keeps his face straight. “He was very cut up about it.” Then he hesitates. “He admitted he’s in love with you.”

I laugh bitterly. “Like that even matters anymore. I’m not that naïve. I’m guessing this Sergio is another crime lord or something?”

When he doesn’t answer, I go on.

“So I can’t see his impending nuptials are going to becalled off. I mean, there’s a wedding planner! So where does that leave me? His secret mistress?”

“Erin—”

“Excuse me,” someone says and I swing my gaze to the door where a young doctor stands. Maybe I should seduce her and show Demyan what it feels like. Even better, upstage him with a woman.

Dragging in a breath, I try to get myself under control. Thing is, if I don’t make light, I’ll fall to absolute pieces.

The doctor’s gaze shifts from me to Ilya. “You’re not Mr. Yegorov.”

“Anything you have to say, you can say.”

“I’d like to speak to Ms. Banks in private.”

Ilya crosses his arms. “As I said?—”

“Ilya, please,” I say. When he doesn’t move, exasperation hits me. “The door’s the only way in or out. It’s not like I can escape.”

“It’s not about you escaping, Erin. It’s about keeping you safe. I’m staying.”

“No. You’re going.” I look at him. “Please.”

His eyes narrow as he gets up. “You look very young to be a doctor.”

“I’m old enough. Here.” She shows him her photo ID. “Ms. Banks will be in safe hands. You have my word.”

“Ilya,” I say. “Go guard the room from the outside.”

There’s a moment where I think he’ll just sit back down and stay, but he doesn’t.

“Fine. I’ll be right outside. My phone’s buzzing, anyway.” He goes up to the doctor and leans in. “Right. Out. Side.” He pauses. “You have five minutes.”

Finally, he goes and the doctor checks me over. “Have you had any other symptoms? Besides the fainting?”

I stare at her as she finishes taking my temperature, and then she takes my blood pressure.

“Symptoms?”

The doctor looks at me and blushes. “I’m sorry. I thought you knew and were just worried.”

“About what?”

“Congratulations. You’re pregnant. The father, Mr. Yegorov, was extremely concerned. The way he was acting it was like you were giving birth, not in your first trimester.”

I’m glad I’m lying down because… Holy shit.

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