Zelda is recovering so well at our home in Tortola. I bought the villa for us to live in, and I’ve already spoken to Rowan about a diplomatic position in the West Indies. He’s working on it, and I’m focused on tracking down that fucking prime minister of Twatrington.
I’m not joking when I say I want him dead, but I’ve stopped mentioning his name in front of my fiancée, as it seems to set her back in her recovery. I’m much happier watching her nesting in our new home with the help of her friends Ximena and Selena.
Ximena is understandably having the biggest adjustment period. For now she’s most comforted staying inside, close to her daughter. She likes doing familiar, household tasks, and we let her do whatever pleases her as she gradually gains more confidence.
Her daughter is just the opposite. Every new thing, every new experience is another step forward for Selena. She’s a smart and very sweet girl, and I’ve engaged a tutor to work with her. I owe them both more than I can ever repay for taking care of my Zee.
Logan is in my study when I get downstairs, and by the expression on his face, I can tell he’s got news about our mission. “He’s openly returned to Totrington.” Anger radiates off my large friend as he speaks. “Hampton is giving him asylum, and they’ve refused extradition to Monagasco, despite his indisputable connection to the assassination attempt, Ava’s shooting, and Zelda’s kidnapping.”
“It’s as good as a declaration of war,” I agree, walking to my desk and waking my computer.
“Your brother is furious,” he continues. “Freddie was able to connect Blix and the ransom note to Paxton in less than twenty-four hours.”
“What does Reggie say about all of this?” My brother and I are slowly coming around to the idea of accepting my uncle’s advice.
Our mother had a hand in our acceptance, pointing out that next to her, Reginald does have the most political experience of us all.
“Your uncle thinks we should wait.” Logan’s frown deepens. “It’s his most infuriating idea to date.”
I nod, looking at the latest email from Ro. “I agree with you. I want Paxton’s head on a platter today—yesterday, if possible. Why does Reggie think we should wait?”
“He says the prime minister will show his hand. He said if we wait, Paxton will grow impatient and make another power grab, and we can move then and avoid the appearance of aggression.”
“After this last ordeal, I’m not comfortable with him walking around free.”
“I couldn’t agree with you more, sir.”
He walks to the French doors and looks toward the pool. I step up behind him and see Zelda placing a fluffy striped towel on a lounge chair. Her hair is twisted on top of her head in one of those cute buns, and her stomach is just starting to round with our baby. She’s adorable.
“We don’t need Freddie to connect Wade to his crimes.” My stomach tightens as I watch her. “She knows everything he’s done. She’s seen it first-hand.”
“He will not threaten her.” Logan’s voice is thick, and if I weren’t so sure of my lady, his overt interest would concern me. As it is…
“I w
ill kill Wade Paxton with my bare hands.” Taking my phone off the desk, I slip it in my pocket before exiting through the French doors. “Zelda has survived enough.”
Leaving him in the office, I make my way down the stone steps to where my girl is lying back on a chair, a magazine in her hand.
“Hello, beautiful,” I say, pausing to kiss her soft lips. She’s wearing huge sunglasses, which she pulls down her nose to give me a look. “If you keep looking at me that way, I’ll have to carry you inside and fuck you.”
“Hmm…” Her cheeks flush a pretty pink. “Is that supposed to make me stop?”
Pulling up the lounger beside her, I can’t miss the name of the magazine she’s holding. “Casino Player?” I say with a laugh.
She pulls the cover closed and glances at it. “I know! I’ve never seen this before. I couldn’t resist.”
“Already growing bored with your life of leisure?”
“I’ve only been here two days!” Her eyebrows rise. “Still… it’s good to have options.”
“You have zero options. You’re never leaving me again.” Moving to sit beside her, I drape an arm around her shoulders. “How does that sound?”
Her eyes drop, and she studies her nails. “I miss Ava.”
I turn so I can face her. Reaching out, I touch her chin. “Let’s go to Monagasco.”
“It’s just…” Worried blue eyes meet mine. “It’s so close.”