“And they had sex. One night. In the morning, he was gone. Anna didn’t even know his name. She tried asking the hotel staff, but no one would tell her anything.”
“This is a fascinating story, but I don’t see how it concerns me.”
“Because that man was you.”
The words land in the space between us.
Lina continues quickly. “Six weeks later, Anna found out she was pregnant. With twins. She tried to find you. Went back to the hotel, asked questions, followed leads. When she finally learned your name and who you are, what you do, she panicked. She knew if she told you, you’d take control. Force her into your world. So she kept the twins a secret.”
“You’re claiming I’m the father of Anna’s children based on a story about a hotel bar five years ago.”
“It’s not just a story. It’s the truth. Anna recognized you the moment she walked into that wedding. She knew you were the twins’ father and said nothing. She’s been lying to you since the beginning.”
I walk to the window. Look out over the city spread below. “Why are you telling me this?”
“Because you deserve to know. You’re their father.”
“That doesn’t answer my question. What do you want?”
Silence. Then, “I thought you might appreciate the information.”
“Appreciate it enough to pay you for it.”
“I didn’t say that?—”
“You didn’t have to.” I turn to face her. “You came here expecting compensation. How much?”
Her face flushes. “That’s not why I came.”
“Everyone wants something. Money. Favor. Revenge. Which is it?”
“I came because it’s the right thing to do. You’re their father. You should know.”
“Or you’re jealous. Anna married into wealth while you’re still scraping by. This is revenge dressed as righteousness.”
“That’s not?—”
“Look at your clothes. Your shoes. The purse you’re clutching like it costs three months’ salary. You came here because you want what Anna has. This is about money, not morality.”
She stands. “Fine. Yes, I could use money. Is that a crime? I’m telling you the truth. The least you could do is compensate me for the information.”
“I don’t pay for unverified stories.”
“It’s not a story! Look at them! Really look at Alexei. He has your eyes, your face. The resemblance is there if you’re not blind.”
“I’ve barely seen the children. Anna prevents contact.”
“Because she knows! She’s known from the beginning that they’re yours!”
“If that’s true, I’ll discover it without your help.”
“Mr. Volkov, please?—”
“You wasted your time coming here. If you’re lying, you get nothing. If you’re telling the truth, I’ll find out on my own. Either way, you leave empty-handed.”
“You’re making a mistake.”
I walk to the door and open it. “That’s my concern, not yours. And if I find out you’ve discussed this with anyone else, there will be consequences. Are we clear?”
