Spirits buoyed, I’d investigated my suite, getting ready for tonight. After taking a bath in a tub larger than most family pools, I’d gamely explored all the clothes, shoes, handbags, and cosmetics.
Though the lingerie on the plane hadn’t been over-the-top sexy, the selection in my new wardrobe ran the gamut. I’d gone for daring—thigh-highs, a black silk thong, and matching demi-cup bra—just in case Sevastyan apologized for being a dick and admitted taboo was just his speed (a girl can dream!).
For the banquet, I’d decided to err on the side of dressy, selecting a formfitting wrap dress in royal-blue silk. The color made my eyes look more aqua than green.
I’d pulled my hair up, the better to show off my pounded-gold choker and chandelier earrings. Though I wasn’t a makeup buff, I’d even opted for mascara and lip gloss.
At the door, I smoothed my dress, then opened up. “Filip?”
“I thought I’d escort you to the feast.” He was dressed in the latest style, drainpipe pants and a slim-fit jacket. With his tie a little loose, his look said: Ivy Leaguer who started the party early. “You look ravishing, Cuz.” He took my hand and kissed it.
If Sevastyan had done the same, I would’ve jumped like the man had live wires attached to his skin. But with Filip there was none of that spark. “Thanks, Filip.”
Out in the hall, he offered his arm. “Were you disappointed to see me at the door?”
“What? No,” I lied.
“I’m afraid our grim friend Sevastyan declined to come get you.”
“Did he, then?” Burn.
It made sense, though. The man wished he’d never met me; why wouldn’t he avoid me? How quick he’d been to tell me, “There is no us.”
Filip frowned down at me. “I’ve never seen him so put off by a pretty girl before. But all things considered, I suppose we shouldn’t blame him.”
“All things considered? What do you mean?” My black heels sank into the plush rug as we made our way down the hallway to the staircase.
“He was the boss’s main heir before you came along.”
I shrugged noncommittally, though I knew this wasn’t the cause of Sevastyan’s chilliness. Manalyzing again, Nat?
The truth was that I didn’t know anything about him.
Filip continued, “Now Kovalev has taken such a shine to you, he called for his lawyers today to change his will. As of an hour ago, you’re officially a billion-heiress.”
“How do you know that?” We reached the stairs, descending.
He grinned. “I have ways, Cuz.”
Why the rush to change his will? “I never asked for that. I don’t want any of Kovalev’s money.” Just thinking about having to deal with that kind of wealth, and the accompanying responsibility, made my necklace feel tight around my throat.
I liked the simple life; people with that kind of money didn’t lead simple lives. “And I have no intention of horning in on Sevastyan’s inheritance.”
“Natalie, I never meant to imply that.” He looked mortified, as if I’d pantsed him. “I’m so sorry if I offended.”
“Oh, Filip, I’m just being overly sensitive.” I confided to him, “The money actually freaks me out.”
“That’s a good problem to have, no? Don’t fret, you’ll get everything worked out with Kovalev. He’s a considerate man, a big softy at heart. He’ll do whatever it takes to make you comfortable here.”
“I’m sure you’re right.” Wanting to change the subject, I said, “You and Sevastyan don’t seem to get along.”
Filip gave me a you-have-no-idea expression. “He’s like a vicious guard dog around Uncle Kov, not surprising since the man plucked Sevastyan off the streets.”
That was where Kovalev had found him? The idea of Sevastyan living on the streets as a boy broke my heart. No wonder I couldn’t get a sense of him. Sevastyan was a blend of street and privilege.
“He doesn’t like anyone near Kovalev but himself.” With a charming quirk of his brow, Filip said, “I’d probably admire the trait more if he didn’t use it against me.” When we reached the main floor, Filip steered me down an airy foyer.
“And why doesn’t Sevastyan like you?”
“He resents my education. He never had formal schooling, you know. He hates any reminder of that. Chip on his shoulder the size of Siberia.”
What must Sevastyan think about my advanced degree? Had he felt even a twinge of guilt when he’d unenrolled me?
“Just be careful around him, Cuz.”
The same advice Sevastyan had given me about Filip. “Why?”
He gazed away. “The man’s got some . . . serious issues.”
“Tell me.”
In a lower voice, Filip said, “He’s been to prison and seems proud of it. He’s got these two dome tattoos on his arm, which is mafiya code for doing two stints. One of those times was in a bloody Siberian prison camp. It does things to a man.”
I was speechless. I’d seen those markings on his arm and had had no idea what they signified.
Yet knowing more about Sevastyan’s checkered past didn’t diminish my attraction for him. In fact, Filip’s revelation had just given Sevastyan layers, making me want to peel them away one by one. Once I returned to my suite tonight, I’d fire up that Mac and learn more about the tattoos. Hell, about this entire new world.