Page 114 of Doubts & Fears

“And what about your parents? Where are they?”

“Dead, ma’am.” The knot grew in my stomach. I refused to meet her eyes, as I didn’t want to see the concern or the pity waiting there.

“Oh, dear. I’m sorry, I didn’t know,” she rushed on. Pity, perfect. I plastered the appropriate look on my face.Well, I guess the guys hadn’t told her anything about me at all.The revelation hurt.

“It happened a long time ago.”

“What about your grandfather? Where does he live?”

I sighed, closing my eyes. “He is dead as well.”

“Oh my, I’m really not doing a very good job of making you feel welcome, am I?” she said, clearly embarrassed.

“You’re being very gracious. I’m honestly feeling rather lightheaded. Would you happen to have a spare room I might lie down in?” I needed to get away from these people.

Sitting there feeling like a complete fool, the pressure built. Sophia rose from her chair, a warm smile fixed on her face. “Of course, follow me.”

She guided me away from the women and into the hallway. The soft carpet beneath my feet muffled the voices until we couldn’t hear them at all. She waved me into a different sitting room.

“Thank you. I’m afraid I’m not good company this evening. I worked out a bit too hard today.”

“Yes, Ivan mentioned that. You take as much time as you need. I’ll insist my sons not bother you. Our footman will be around, and if you feel like joining us, you may. Rest up.” She patted my hand. I didn’t need a psychic to see she was happy with this outcome.

I closed the door behind her and took a deep breath, trying to collect myself. After a few minutes, I felt foolish. As stupid as it was, I wanted their parents to like me.

Several minutes later, I rethought my decision to hide. It was time to be the fucking grown-ass adult I’d sworn to Ivan I was earlier and suck it up. I refused to let Jenna, Alisha, or even Allison win.

I could be charming, I could be,I hyped myself up.

Embracing the surge of confidence, I marched back toward the drawing room. As I approached, a symphony of male voices reached my ears, one of them bearing an uncanny resemblance to Alek’s deep timbre. I froze, noticing an unmistakable anger echoing in his words.

“Damn it, Alek, you need to put a stop to this. I have no idea what the hell has gotten into the three of you with this girl, but you have to tell her. This isn’t a fucking game.”

“Father, we’re all aware of the danger that exists, and we’re taking precautions,” Alek retorted.

What was he talking about? What danger? Had they found out who the package was from? Marcel and I were still discussing parts of my childhood and Pasha. I hadn’t decided about how much I’d share or if I would ever be able to. Mr. King’s next words snapped me back to the present.

“Are you, now? Then why the hell was she straddling your brother and practically fucking him this afternoon? Your mother was beside herself. She thinks that she and Ivan are having an affair right under your nose.”

“Father, Kinsley and I are not in a relationship. She’s just a girl in need of help, is all. Given how we were raised and what we’ve learned from you, we’re trying to help. That’s it,” Alek said.

His next words were like a slap in the face, and they broke me.

“She is nobody special to any of us. Now, if you don’t mind, I haven’t spoken to Alisha all week. I’m assuming Mother invited her for me. I know how much she likes her,” Alek said.

The tears I had tried to hold back filled my eyes. I quickly backed away, dipping into an empty room to hide. After hearing them walk by, I stepped cautiously out into the hall. The footman came around a corner, and I rushed over. “Excuse me, where might I find Marcus?”

“He usually waits in the front room, miss.” He pointed. I hurried over and found him watching TV. He stood when he saw me, frowning.

“Ms. Taylor?”

“Could…I mean, would you take me home? I shouldn’t be here. I don’t belong,” I said as the tears spilled.

“Of course. Let me tell Alek, and we can go.”

“No,” I yelled. “Please don’t, just take me home. It’s not that far. I’ll text him in the car.”

“I can’t do that. You know that, right? Even if I wanted to, he would have my ass.”

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