Page 122 of Porcelain Lies

The thought of another confrontation with Aleksei’s sister makes me shudder. But sitting here alone is starting to drive me crazy. There are only so many laps I can swim, so many approved pregnancy books I can read.

My fingers itch to explore, to solve this puzzle. Dad always said I had a scientist’s mind — never satisfied until I understood how things worked.

I pace the length of my suite, restless energy building. The mysteries of this house taunt me.

What’s behind that hidden door?

Boredom and curiosity are a dangerous combination.

The more I pace, the more my mind fixates on whoever needs that medical equipment. Someone in this house requires serious care — mobility assistance, physical therapy, probably regular medication. Are they getting everything they need? Is anyone checking their progress or providing emotional support?

“You know Dad would want you to help,” I whisper to myself, remembering his dedication to his patients.

“It’s not your business,”Boyana warns.“Aleksei clearly wants this person kept private.”

But I can’t shake the feeling that I could make a difference. At minimum, I could provide some human connection beyond just clinical care.

“They must be so lonely,” I murmur, thinking of the isolation in this massive house. Even with nurses and staff, being hidden away like this… it has to be crushing.

I press my hand against my stomach, maternal instincts surging. What if it was my child who needed care? Wouldn’t I want someone to reach out, to offer help and understanding?

“Okay,” I say firmly, squaring my shoulders. “Time to do some exploring.”

“You’re going to get caught,”Boyana protests.

“Hey! You’re the one who called me a coward when I left the package at the entrance,” I mutter under my breath, moving toward my door with renewed purpose. “Sometimes doing the right thing means taking risks.”

I retrace my steps to where I spotted Aleksei disappearing through that hidden panel. I hold my breath as I examine thewall, looking for any sign of the mechanism. The wood paneling appears seamless at first glance.

“Come on, there has to be a way…” I run my fingers along the edges, pressing experimentally.

A slight give under my left hand makes me pause. I press harder and feel a soft click. The panel swings inward silently, revealing a narrow staircase leading upward.

Holy shit!

Cool air drifts down from above, carrying a faint antiseptic smell that reminds me of hospitals. The stairs are carpeted in deep burgundy, muffling any footsteps. Modern LED strips illuminate each step, casting a soft glow that feels almost welcoming.

I grip the polished handrail, its smooth wood warm under my palm. The craftsmanship is impeccable — no creaking treads or loose carpeting to give away someone’s approach.

“You’re going to be in so much shit!”Boyana warns.

“Shut up,” I whisper back, taking my first step upward.

A sound from behind me has the air seizing in my lungs. I spin to face the source, then take a step back as I take in the towering shape looming over me. I look up and up into a face that’s carved from granite, eyes as cold as steel.

“Don’t,” says Aleksei, a muscle flickering over the hard line of his jaw.

Shit, shit, shit!

I take another step back but stop short as I bump up against the wall.

“You are so totally busted,”says Boyana.

Chapter Thirty-Six

Aleksei

She stares up at me like a deer in the headlights, eyes wide and unblinking.

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