Page 32 of Dark Desires
Mario chuckles. “Don’t sell yourself short. Tough is what keeps this family together.”
I nod, taking another sip of tea. “Thanks, Mario. Really.”
He gives me a small nod and heads back to his post, leaving me alone with my thoughts again. I stare out the window, feeling just a little more grounded.
In that moment, I make a vow. I’ll be there for Stephania, for Dad, for this family.
I’ll be the strength they need, no matter what.
CHAPTER 10
ISABELLA
The next morning…
I’m parked in this uncomfortable hospital chair, blinking away the sleep, and honestly, feeling like I’ve been hit by a truck.
Stephania’s still out cold, her face way too peaceful for all the bruises she’s sporting. Just when I think it’s safe to relax, the door swings open. I look up, expecting a nurse.
But no. It’s Alexei.
And he’s holding a vase of roses.
"Roses, huh? Didn’t peg you for the romantic type."
He doesn’t even glance at me as he steps over to Stephania. "She deserves them.” He sets the flowers down on the table, messing with them a bit until they look a little livelier.
Alexei doesn’t say another word, instead sitting down in the other chair next to Steph’s bed. As soon as he’s seated, he locks his eyes on her.
“And good morning to you, too,” I say.
He flicks his eyes up and me. “Sarcasm’s not a charming trait,Devotchka.”
“And neither is false sincerity.”
That gets his attention. “What are you implying?”
"Oh, you’re suddenly Mr. Doting Fiancé now?" I raise an eyebrow.
"Maybe I am. It’s my job now, isn’t it?"
“Job. Sure. I mean, you are just playing a role, right?"
“Listen—Stephania is my fiancé. Just because this arrangement is more about convenience than anything else, doesn’t mean I don’t give a damn about her well-being.” He leans in a little, eyes flashing. “But then again, maybe this role of mine isn’t the issue here.”
“Yeah? What’s the issue then?”
“I think you know.”
"Oh, please." I roll my eyes.
I glance at Stephania, who’s still fast asleep, thankfully missing the awkward, heated scene playing out right next to her. "Look, why are you really here?"
"Already told you. Here to see my fiancé."
I scoff. "Nice try, Alexei. But we both know it’s not that simple."
He levels his gaze at me, voice dropping. "You think I owe you an explanation?"
