“I understand complicated families. In fact, my own complicated family d-dynamic is why I need your help.”
Sarah slowly turned back to face me. Although I had every reason in the world to be cagey and withholding, I decided to tell her everything. Well, the sanitized version that didn’t involve me being a Bratva heir.
I began in childhood before ending with what had occurred in the last week. To her credit, she hung onto every word of mine. Often her gaze dipped to my lips or throat as I spoke. I know she was probably assessing me as she listened.
When I finished, I exhaled a ragged breath. “Now that all my cards are on t-the t-table, I will g-give you the option to stay or g-go.”
Sarah jerked back in shock. “Wait, what did you just say?”
“I’m g-giving you a choice.”
“Don’t play with me.”
“I’m not.”
A mirthless laugh bubbled from her lips. “After going through all the subterfuge of having the Beast kidnap me, you’re just going to let me go?”
“No, I’m giving you a choice.”
Her dark eyes narrowed. “You’re a real bastard, aren’t you?”
My brows creased in confusion. “I don’t understand.”
“I know you’re aware of my parents’ financial situation.”
“That is true.”
“Then it would appear that your benevolence is bullshit since you know I need the money for my father’s care.”
Rising from the couch, I went over to the desk. After pulling out the envelope bulging with cash, I walked back over to her. I placed it gently into her lap. “While it isn’t the full amount I plan to offer you to treat me, it is enough to see your father in a top facility for the next two years.”
Blinking at me in bewilderment, Sarah asked, “What are you going to offer me?”
“A million dollars.”
A squeak of alarm escaped her lips. “You…that’s…no,” she muttered incoherently.
“I can assure you that’s my offer.”
“Why? I mean, I know I’m good at my job, but there are hundreds of better doctors or speech therapists who could treat you.”
“It isn’t just about your qualifications. It’s about who you are as a person.”
“Your associate, um, I mean, your brother said you’d read my journals.”
“T-That is true. I also read t-the reviews of your p-practice.”
“Seriously?”
“I’m very t-thorough.”
“Apparently so.” She ran her fingers over the envelope. “For you to pay me one million dollars, all I have to do is treat you.”
“T-That’s correct.”
“I don’t have to…” Her gaze snapped from the envelope to mine. Gesturing with her hand, she said, “You know.”
“Are you asking if I expect you t-to fuck me?”
