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“Yes?”

“I have something for you.”

Michail’s voice reverberates through the door. Things would be so much easier if he had a high-pitched voice or a nasally twang.

I cinch the belt on my robe tighter before I answer the door. It would also help, I think irritably, if the man wasn’t so handsome. His black tuxedo is molded to his powerful frame.Yet he wears it with such arrogance, such masculine confidence, it’s not hard to picture him ripping it off the first chance he gets.

My eyes travel down to his white shirt and the row of buttons. I can easily picture grabbing the fabric and pulling it apart, scattering buttons as I slide my hands up over his muscular chest—

I cut the thought off before I go too far. Next time I go to my doctor I need to ask her if this is normal, this heightened level of lust and the accompanying vivid imagery.

“Nice suit.”

Michail’s lips quirk. “Thanks. Nice robe.”

“The latest in maternity bridal fashion.”

His quiet, husky chuckle flows across my frayed nerves, warm and soothing.

He holds up a small black box. “I have something for you.”

I stare at the box as my heart starts to pound. He flips the lid open. I can’t help the sharp inhale as I gaze down at one of the most exquisite rings I’ve ever seen. Delicate threads of silver twist and twine over each other, like branches from some magical forest. Tiny diamonds glimmer in the spaces between. In the middle sits a stunning emerald cut in a circle.

He pulls the ring out and pockets the box before holding out his hand. I swallow hard as I place my left hand in his. Sensation shoots up my arm from where his fingertips rest on my skin. He slides the ring onto my finger.

I blink back against the sudden heaviness behind my eyes. It’s nothing more than window dressing, a prop for an elaborate play we’re putting on. My mind repeats this over and over again, but my heart doesn’t get the memo. I can’t help but be touched that he not only thought of something like this, but that he selected something so beautiful and unique.

I hold my hand up. “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

“Anthony told me it was the most expensive piece he had in.”

My joy dims. “Anthony?”

“He owns a jewelry store on Madison Avenue. He sent it over this morning.”

All traces of happiness evaporate. He didn’t pick it out. He just shelled out thousands of dollars, if not more, for the priciest ring in the store.

Don’t let it bother you.

“It’s beautiful. Thank you.” My quick smile probably appears wooden. “I need to finish getting ready.”

His eyes narrow, his gaze searching my face. “Everything all right?”

“I’m not going to turn into a runaway bride, if that’s what you’re worried about.”

I meant the words as a joke, but his jaw tightens beneath his freshly trimmed beard. “I know you’ll keep your word, Alessandra. I was simply asking if you were all right.”

The ring grows heavy on my finger. Our time together in Santorini was natural, effortless. We talked for nearly two hours before he asked me to dance. As soon as I placed my hand in his, I knew where the night would lead. He made me feel beautiful, cherished, intelligent.

Now, we might as well be speaking different languages.

“It was meant as a joke, Michail. I’m fine. Just tired.” I don’t even bother with a fake smile this time as I start to close the door. “I’ll see you on the terrace.”

One hand comes up, his palm thumping against the door. Irritation kicks in as I glare up at him.

“Yes?”

Before he can say anything, his phone rings. He pulls it out and glances at the screen. His tension vanishes as his lips curve up into a slight smile and he hits Answer.