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.
