“I’m Mr. Milov’s private security,” he says coldly. “I was sent to collect you.”
I frown and go back inside to grab my purse before I follow him to the car. He opens the back seat, and I climb in. He climbs into the passenger seat beside the driver, and we begin our journey. They’re driving toward downtown Vegas.
“Where are we going?” I ask, leaning forward slightly.
“Mr. Milov thought you would be hungry and booked a reservation downtown for lunch,” the guard says.
“So, what’s your name?” I ask curiously. “What should I call you.”
“The boss will tell you if you should address me or not.” I’m trying to place his accent. Definitely Eastern European.
They’re clearly very confidential about their boss. Kervyn seems even more mysterious now than before.
We pull up outside a popular restaurant, and I glance around. “Where do I go?”
“Here. To Rouge Room,” the guard says. “He’ll be waiting. Just ask the hostess for Mr. Milov’s private table.”
I nod. Weird.
I get out and walk toward the front. The hostess looks at me, stares at my hair for a moment, and then purses her lips. “I’m sorry, ma’am, you must be lost.”
“Not at all,” Kervyn says from next to her. “This is my guest. Penny, this is Gwen. She’s a hostess at this fine establishment.”
I look at her, trying not to feel a little smug. “Nice to meet you, Gwen.”
“Apologies, Mr. Milov. I wasn’t expecting your guest…”
“It’s okay, Gwen. I won’t fire you this time.” He motions to me. “But I won’t need you to escort me back to my private table. Do keep the tables around me clear, please.”
She nods, and I walk with his guidance to an area near the back. I know this place usually is pumping, which makes me wonder what he does so that he can keep a whole section clear just for us to have lunch.
“Penny. Don’t take to heart the small-mindedness of people. I see your beauty. It shines.” I blush slightly as he pulls out a seat for me and helps me into it.
He sits opposite me and smiles broadly. “The news you’ve given me is the best news I’ve had in a long time.”
I raise an eyebrow. “The best?”
“It’s surprising, I know, for both of us.” He waves away the waitress, who offers him a bottle of wine. “Sparkling water for both of us, please. Penny, you must understand that while this is not expected, it should be rejoiced. You are carrying my child. What could be more wonderful.”
I feel as though a weight is lifting from my shoulders. He may be mysterious, but he is adorable.
A guard walks in to wait nearby, and Mr. Milov—Kervyn—frowns. “Hold on.” He motions for the guard to approach. The guard leans in to whisper in his ear. It’s Russian! That’s what his accent is! I wait patiently as the waitress brings our sparkling water.
He’s rather bossy. I don’t know if I like that or if I don’t.
Asher would tell me to stand my ground.
The guard leaves, and he looks at me. “My apologies. My business isn’t one that involves very patient clients. Now, to the future.” He raises his sparkling water, and I raise mine.
“What is in the future in terms of co-parenting our child?” I ask quietly.
“Well, we still have some time since you’re only five weeks. I’ll cover all the costs, of course, including the DNA test at the check up to ensure paternal rights. I’ll personally select the movers to get you moved in. We can have the wedding after the birth and then enjoy a honeymoon once the baby is older. I don’t expect you to work, but you are welcome to if it is something you want to continue to do. However, I assure you I can provide for you.”
I’m frozen for a moment.
Move?
Wedding?
Honeymoon?
DNA Test?
“I’m not really a traditional sort of person who thinks you marry the person who got you pregnant. If you know what I mean.”
He holds up a hand as another guard comes in. They speak English and they’re definitely local to Vegas. I hear them mutter something about a warehouse, guards, and workers. Kervyn nods, and the guard leaves.
“Sorry, Kervyn. What is it you do?” I ask suddenly.
“Well, I do many things, Penny. My main job is to run my family business, or should I say several businesses. We own several nightclubs, protection services, resorts, and warehouses, among other things.”
I sip my water as he continues. “But just to be clear. I’m from a powerful family, and once you marry me, you will be powerful within it as my Queen.” He smiles, inclining his head. “You may not be traditional, Penny, but I always get what I set my eyes on. You are carrying my heir. We will marry, and you may even come to like my lifestyle.”
I swallow. The waitress returns to take our order, but I shake my head. “Well.” My logical mind has officially kicked in, thank God. “Well, I need to get packing then. There is no point in delaying this. I will contact you to let you know when to come and get me. I also want to let everyone know where I’m going.”
I move to stand, and he stands as well. “Penny. It’s best you don’t tell anyone for now, or at least don’t mention my name. Unfortunately, due to business, I’m not well-liked in all circles.”
“I understand,” I say, meeting his brown-eyed gaze. “Thank you for arranging this, and I’ll see you soon.”
