Page 174 of Savage Hearts
And if Mal is so protective that he’d keep me at arm’s length for my own safety, I can imagine exactly what a nutcase he’d be if he discovered I’m pregnant.
He’d probably move to another planet. He’d set up shop on Mercury and run the Russian Bratva from there.
I don’t sleep at all that night. By the next morning, I’ve decided I just need to put one foot in front of the other and deal with the most obvious thing first.
I have to tell my sister that I’m pregnant with the child of theassassin who swore vengeance on the man she loves for the murder of his brother.
Jesus on a cracker. How does that conversation start?
As it turns out, it doesn’t, because Sloane has her own important news to share.
She knocks on my door, poking her head in when I don’t answer.
“You awake?”
From under the covers, I exhale a leaden breath. “Bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Come on in.”
The mattress dips with her weight. The covers slide down over my face because she’s pulling at them.
“Good morning, Little Miss Sunshine.”
“Ew. Don’t smile like that. People will think you’re a cult leader.”
“Don’t be crabby. I need to tell you something, and I want you to be happy about it.”
“Wait, let me guess.” I inspect her disturbing megawatt smile. “There’s a huge sale at Bergdorf’s.”
Instead of answering, she lifts her left hand. On her ring finger sparkles a piece of ice that could double as a children’s skating rink.
I gasp, sitting up on my elbows. “It’s a ring!”
“It is!”
“You finally said yes!”
“I did!”
“You’re officially engaged!”
“I know! Isn’t it amazing?”
My voice choked and my eyes watering, I nod enthusiastically.
“Oh, shit,” she says, her eyes wide. “I’m such an idiot.”
“No, you’re not. I’m so h-happy for you!” Then I start to cry, because it’s my new default setting.
I’m blaming it on the hormones.
She grabs me and hugs me so hard, it leaves me breathless.“God, my timing. I’ve always had terrible timing! You can punch me in the face if it will make you feel better.”
I consider it for a moment but toss the idea aside. I can’t be throwing swings at my kid’s auntie. Between all the warring mafia factions, we’ll have enough family strife.
“No, I’m glad you told me.” I pull away, wiping my eyes. “I’m very, very happy for you guys. Did you set a date yet?”
“The day after tomorrow.”
That makes me blink in surprise. “Oh. Wow. Carpe diem.”
