Goddammit.
“It’s not that simple,” Maksim gritted. “Unlike your animosity toward the Kings because of what Ivan did to Irina?—”
“Don’t bring Irina into it—” Ivan warned.
“But that’s just it. I’m more objective. That’s why you groomed me to be CEO. I have no personal stake in this except to grow the Zahkarov coffers.”
I had little to do with the running of the company. My concern was that the money I brought in would get multiplied in value, and Maksim was excellent in this. King Industries being a player in almost every business was hard to avoid. “Just tell me what our exposure is.”
“King Industries will be using our trade routes in Europe, including the consortium I’d established with other key players. It’ll strengthen our global reach. But we’re facing pushback from the conservative members of his board. Not because of us, but there are growing grumblings about the unmarried state of the brothers. They’re not exactly a picture of stability, and that’s making investors nervous.”
I narrowed my eyes at Ivan and Maksim. “You better not suggest Aralina.”
“That wasn’t on me,” Maksim said. “I won’t deny that Jeremiah King approached me about it, but I didn’t trust that fucker. Theodore King might be a broody bastard, but I like his less flashy style. All I’m saying is I’m glad you didn’t kill them. Getting rid of both King brothers would invite too much scrutiny.”
“What are you suggesting?” Ivan asked.
“We keep our heads down. The next few days are critical,” Maksim said. “It’s too soon to make a move. Our company had already invested heavily to prepare for this deal, so we’ll take a hit if we cut and run.”
“Fine.” I rose from the couch and tossed back my whiskey. “I’m leaving. Lucy needs her rest.”
I left the men in the study and went in search of my wife. The living room was empty. I turned around and ran into Irina.
“Where’s Lucy?”
“She’s in Aralina’s room. They’re both exhausted.”
I nodded briefly. “I’ll make sure she stays in bed the whole day tomorrow.”
Irina touched my arm and smiled. “I’m so happy you and Lucy are doing better. Thank you for bringing her into this family. Even Ivan is fond of her.”
I snorted a laugh. “She’s not too fond of Ivan at the moment.”
“Because he lied about the trust documents?”
“Yes.”
“Ivan was trying to buy time. Besides, Lucy’s married to you. I’m sure she understands the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
Surprisingly, I didn’t bristle at the comparison to my father. When I reached Aralina’s room and opened it, my sister was awake, sitting up in bed, reading a book.
Lucy was fast asleep.
“This looks familiar.”
Aralina lowered the book and signed, “She’s tired.”
“Can I have my wife back?”
She laughed silently and got off the bed.
“You’re so much trouble,” I deadpanned as she padded over to me.
“I love you, brother.” She gestured before giving me a hug.
I rested my chin on top of her head. “Love you, too.”
She stilled before pulling back, eyes wide and signing wildly, “You never say it back!”
