Page 29 of Shattered Cradle (Makarova Bratva Duet)

“Big man?”

“He’s organized dinner for all of us,” he says. “Tonight.”

I’m not careful enough just then—I let a flash of emotion pass over my face. Rob catches it, because of course he does, and frowns.

“Give him a chance, Liv,” he scolds. “He’s a good man. You’ll see for yourself tonight.”

I suppress a sigh and nod. “Looking forward to it.”

Rob grabs a glass of fresh orange juice. He downs it in a few gulps and then stomps for the door.

“Are you sure you can’t stay and eat?” I call after him.

“Positive.”

I dart out of my chair and follow him out of the suite door. “What’s the rush, though? You’re not on the case anymore, right?”

“I still have a job, Liv.”

Realization dawns quickly. He still has access to the FBI’s resources.

“If anyone finds out you’re still working this case,” I say, “especially with Hargrove… won’t you get in trouble?”

He grimaces. “By the time they find out, we’ll have enough proof to put this son of a bitch away for life, and nothing else will matter.”

My stomach flips. I don’t think it’s the morning sickness.

“What’s her name?” I ask suddenly.

“Sorry?”

“Hargrove’s goddaughter,” I ask. “What’s her name?”

“Don is really concerned with her privacy. She’s been through enough already.”

“So you don’t know?”

He scowls. “The only name I’m concerned about is the one she gave us.”

I want to scream inside. Maybe I’m not the only one seeing what I want to see.

Rob is about to turn towards the elevators when he stops short. “I meant to ask, how are you feeling?”

“A little bit like I’ve entered the Twilight Zone, if I’m being honest.”

“I meant physically.” He tilts his chin at my stomach.

“Oh. I’m feeling good,” I tell him. “Strong.”

He nods, but I’m not sure that’s the answer he was looking for. “I’ll see you tonight.”

“Right. Tonight.”

He steps into an elevator. I duck back inside to join Mia and Mom. They’re tucking into breakfast with enthusiasm, but I can’t seem to muster up an appetite.

“What would you like, darling?” Mom asks. “We have everything. Eggs, bacon, bread, cereal.”

“I’m feeling a little queasy, actually.”

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