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The drive through Chicago takes us to a towering glass-and-steel building that dominates the skyline. The moment we step into the marble lobby, several staff members straighten. They already know who I am, even though I’ve never met any of them.

“Mrs. Sokolov,” the receptionist greets warmly.

I’m escorted up to the top floors. When we reach the heavy double doors of Roman’s office, I knock once and walk in without waiting.

Roman is behind his desk. A blonde woman in a tight pencil skirt is leaning over his shoulder, looking at something on his laptop. Her neckline is plunging, and her chest is practically brushing against his arm.

They aren't doing anything out of line, but seeing her standing that close to him immediately makes me uncomfortable.

Roman’s head snaps up. Shock flashes across his face the second he sees me.

He straightens and dismisses the woman with a curt word. She straightens slowly, her eyes sliding over me in a quick, assessing once-over before she walks out without saying a single word to me. The silent sizing-up leaves a sour taste in my mouth.

I turn back to Roman. “Who was that?”

“The daughter of one of my business partners,” he answers evenly. “Our families have a partnership.”

Before I can dig further, he adds, “I wasn’t expecting you.”

“I noticed.” I step closer.

However, I don't plan on discussing other women with him. I'm here for something else.

“When I woke up this morning, you were already gone,” I say.

“I had an early meeting. I didn’t want to wake you.”

I nod slowly, then hold up the invitation I brought with me. “I saw this.”

A faint smile tugs at his lips. “You came all the way here just to ask if we’re going to a gala tonight?”

“No.” I shake my head. “I was actually hoping you’d come shopping with me. We could pick out what we’re going to wear together.”

He leans back in his chair. “I don’t need to shop. I have more than enough suits. If you need something new, go ahead.”

“I don’t want to go alone.”

His brow lifts slightly.

“I want you to come with me.”I try to flash an innocent smile, hoping to make him give in.“I want you to help me choose my dress.”

Something shifts in his eyes at that.

“Fine,” he says immediately. “We’ll go shopping.”

Now it's my turn to be surprised. I didn't expect him to agree so readily. Roman Sokolov actually agreed to go shopping with me?

Before I can even react, Roman picks up the phone and tells his secretary to clear his schedule for the rest of the afternoon.

Then he stands, buttons his jacket, and looks at me.

“Let’s go.”

Chapter 13

Roman

I’ve never gone shopping with a woman before. But Aurora isn’t just any woman. She’s my wife. My woman.