Page 123

Chapter Forty-Nine

–Me: I’m going to marry the woman of my dreams.

–Czarina: What does that mean, exactly?

–Me: It means I’m marrying Max.

–Czarina: She doesn’t fit into our world.

–Me: Why? Because she doesn’t reduce me to a monetary calculation like the women you chose?

–Czarina: Don’t be crude.

–Me: The woman you like most—Selena—dumped me fourteen years ago because she felt embarrassed to be associated with Mom and Dad, even indirectly. She only came back because she wants my money, but if she finds someone richer, she won’t hesitate to leave. Because it was never about being with me, just having what benefits her.

–Me: Max isn’t like her. She wants to be with ME. She doesn’t care about anything else. Besides, she’s carrying my child.

–Czarina: How could you have been so careless? You’re going to beget a child with just anybody?

–Me: At least the kid won’t be inbred. If you want to come anywhere near the baby, much less hold it, you better start treating Max with respect.

–Czarina: I’m your family!

–Me: As of this moment, so is Max. And her happiness matters the most. I hope you understand.

Chapter Fifty

Max

Two weekends later, a charcoal grill is delivered. Rhys looks at it taking up space in the backyard, then nods with satisfaction.

“It’s the size of a pickup truck,” I say. “Are you inviting everyone from the firm?”

He shudders. “Perish the thought. It’s just for two of us and, of course, my brothers. Barbecue parties are more fun with more people. And I’ve got to show Liam I’m capable of cooking.”

“What did he do?”

“He always acts like I’m going to kill myself if I try to cook something.” Rhys presses his lips together.

I shake my head, trying not to laugh. To be honest, I can’t imagine Rhys cooking either, but I don’t want to hurt his feelings. “Well,thatwasn’t nice of him.” I manage a censorious tone.

“Right? I might just give him the bad burger if I mess one up.” Rhys starts the grill.

I watch him for a moment. I’m still unsure what’s gotten into him, but whatever. Worst case, he whips up something inedible and we’ll have to eat out.

Within half an hour, the brothers start to arrive. A vague concern crosses Gideon’s face as he studies the grill. “We’ve never had a gathering that involved food here,” he says.

“Silas brought the coleslaw and sides, so maybe it’ll almost be like one of his parties,” Liam says, pasting on a smile that’s more pained than happy.

“This grill is the star,” Rhys says.

Gideon still stares at the patties dubiously. “Can’t decide if I should be nervous or—”

Xavier slaps his shoulder. “You have life insurance. You’ll be fine.”

“Children, behave,” Rhys says. “I have studied under a master.”

“Really?” Roarke couldn’t sound more skeptical.