I also know if anything were to happen to me, Aiden would look after the two people I care about most.
When I step through the door, I find Olivia standing by the floor to ceiling glass windows. She’s gazing out at the scenic view of the City of Angels that assisted my decision to get this apartment. In her elegant navy blue cocktail dress, she looks as graceful as Mom used to when she’d get dressed up for a fundraiser or when she went to see my father.
Olivia turns to face me as I enter, and I feel like an asshole when I note the worry on her face. I know I put it there.
I don’t like seeing her worried. She’s had that specific look since I revealed the big secret that Robert was the person who betrayed me and caused us all that pain.
We’ve always had something to worry about, but the worry she’s sporting now is different. It mingles with fear. Nobody knows me better than she does. She might not be aware of what I get up to when I’m working, but she knows my rebellious personality. She knows I’ll go after Robert, and if that kills me, it’s a small price to pay.
“Sis, making late-night house calls?” I ask in a lighthearted tone.
She smiles, but it doesn’t quite reach her eyes. She tucks a strand of her hair behind her ear and brings her hands together.
“I won’t stay long.”
“I’m amazed that man of yours allowed you to come all the way out here by yourself.” I sound like I’m joking. I’m not, though. Aiden always has a guard with her. Even when she comes to visit me. Normally if it’s late like now, he’d come himself. I’m surprised there isn’t anyone else inside here with her.
“Maksim is just down the corridor,” she explains, and instantly I feel reassured she is more than safe. Maksim is just as good as having the Pakhan himself here. The next best is me.
“I see you have a guest,” she states with a twinkle in her eyes.
She’s talking about Summer, but she won’t know why she’s here.
“I do have a guest.”
“She’s pretty.”
“Yeah.”
“Will I hear wedding bells ringing for you, brother?”
I have to laugh. The closest I’ll get to a wedding is hers. “No. So what brings you here?”
“Nice subtle change of subject.” She grins, and I smile. “Aiden got called away on business. I wanted to talk to you, so I came here to wait.”
I move closer and search her face. After that talk with Aiden I expected her to see me at some point, but it looks like she has something important she wants to tell me.
“Is it something I have to worry about?”
“No. It’s nothing to worry about. It’s good news, actually.”
“Good news?” That’s something I rarely hear. I can’t tell when last I had anything of the sort.
“Yes, very good news.”
“Well, tell me what it is now,” I prod.
“I’m pregnant,” she replies, and I’m surprised by the happiness I feel.
I never thought about how I’d react when this day came. I’m genuinely happy for her.
“Oh my God, that’s wonderful news.” I pull her in for a hug and cup her face. “This is perfect news.”
It’s something both she and Aiden deserve.
This news and their upcoming wedding is part of her happily ever after. That’s something I want her to have more than anything. It will make up for the shitty childhood we had, and the times I wasn’t here for her.
“Thank you. I’m glad you’re happy.”