"I was thinking," Leo continues, "maybe we could go into town today. Look at wedding venues.”
"I have work to do. My father needs help with the books."
"Work can wait. We should spend time together. Get to know each other better." His hand slides higher.
I grab his wrist. "Stop it, Leo."
"Why not? We're engaged."
"Because it's inappropriate."
"Inappropriate?" He laughs and whispers in my ear. "Baby, you’re getting married to me while being pregnant with another man’s child. What do you know about inappropriate?"
I shove his hand off. Stand. "Excuse me. I need to—I need air."
I leave my toast untouched and walk out before anyone can stop me.
The hallway's empty. I lean against the wall, breathe.
God, I can’t believe this is going to be my life now.
Tears threaten to spill, but I bite my lips hard. I won’t allow myself to break down. Not now. Not when I have a baby that needs her mother strong and healthy.
I look up, and I’m not totally surprised to see Axel standing by the door, just watching me. I see the anger and frustration in his eyes, but there’s nothing to be done about it.
He takes a step closer, but I turn and run away.
Dinner that night is worse.
The dining room's packed, and everyone is here: Dad's underbosses, their wives, Sergei and Alexei at the far end. I'm seated between Dad and Leo, with Axel directly across from me.
Leo's hand finds my thigh the second we sit down.
I don't bother pushing it off anymore. What's the point?
"Aurora," one of the wives, Maria, leans forward. "How is wedding planning going? Have you chosen a dress?"
I shake my head and focus on my food. "Not yet."
"You should definitely go to Valentina's downtown. She does beautiful work."
I nod once. "I'll keep that in mind, thank you."
Leo squeezes my thigh and smiles. "Whatever my bride wants."
Your bride wants to stab you with a fork.
I take a sip of water. Wishing it were vodka.
Across the table, Axel's jaw is tight. He hasn't touched his food, just been pushing it around his plate while Viktor tries to make conversation.
Our eyes meet.
Help me,I think.
His hand clenches around his fork.
"Aurora's going to be a beautiful bride," Leo continues, loud enough for the whole table. "Even with the extra weight."