Sophia
What’s wrong with me? Why did I say that to him? The rational part of my brain flies out the window when it comes to him. I’ve been told I have no filter, but that was so out of line. Red lingerie? I smack my forehead a few times. Stupid, stupid, stupid.
Why does he need me, though? Did Andrei get hurt again? Did he? A sudden pang that feels like panic over the thought of him getting hurt stabs me in the gut. Why do I care? He sounded fine over the phone. Maxim’s still demanding as ever. Why does he need me to sign an NDA? I get that what he does is illegal and needs me to be kept quiet, but I'm getting the slightest hint that there's more to that NDA.
Maybe he likes sex so rough and kinky that he needs a doctor to clean up any wounds he may give. He does look like the type to like it rough. I’m willing to bet he’s good in bed, or he carries himself as he would be. He sure carries himself like he does. The way he wrapped his hands around my throat got me all hot and bothered. I want him to do that again, slam me against the wall and take me right there.
“Sophia?” I jump, wondering if my inappropriate thoughts managed to make him appear, but no, it's my assistant. Why does that disappoint me? I clear my throat a few times before answering.
“Uh, yes, what is it, Maria?”
“Are you okay?”
“Yes, I’m good. Just a little stressed. Did you need something?”
“Oh yes, I finished cleaning and restocking the rooms. Would you like me to do anything else?”
“Thank you, Maria. No, that will be all. The last patient canceled.” I look at the time, and it’s 4:05 pm. They’ll be getting here soon, and I don't want Maria to be part of this mess. “You can go home a little early today; I’m going to finish up some charting, then go home myself. I have a”—I let out a little groan—“date tonight.” But it’s hard to muster up a smile, and she catches that.
“Why don’t you sound more excited about it?”
“It's a blind date my sister set up. I’m only doing it to get her off my back because I stood him up the other day. I know it’s not a good reason to go on a date with him, but if I don’t, Jenny will never leave me alone.”
“Your sister is a handful. I don't blame you. But you shouldn't have to do something you don't want to do.”
“If only it were that easy. How's the baby?”
“She's great! It's been a bit of a learning curve for Samantha and me. But Lexy is an angel; she sleeps through the night. We’re truly blessed to have adopted such an amazing little girl.”
“You need to show me some new pictures.”
“I will. I’m going to grab my stuff and head out. Are you sure you don't need anything else?”
“Yes, I'm sure. Thank you.” She heads to the back, grabs her bag, and leaves. I go to the bathroom to freshen up. It's been a busy day, and I probably look like a zombie. I grab my brush, and that's when I realize my hands are shaking. Whether out of nerves or fear, I have no idea.
Ever since that man came barging into my life, I can’t stop thinking about him. I’m usually more well-collected, but all I want to do when he’s around is stare at him like a love-sick puppy. I never thought I would be such a masochist. How can I be attracted to a man who treats me like he owns me? As if I'm someone to be owned. No, I won’t put up with that. He’s going to be hearing what I have to say about that. The bell to the door chimes, letting me know the charmer and the sour puss are here. I groan. “Hurray for me,” I say sarcastically.
“Doc, your favorite people have arrived.” I hear them from inside the bathroom.
That is definitely Andrei. I don't think Maxim has a funny bone in his body. I need to give myself a pep talk to get through this day. After the dramatics, I leave the bathroom and head to the front to meet my doom.
My gaze automatically finds Maxim when I get there, and my heart skips a beat. Stupid organ.
I can't help but look him up and down. He’s leaning on the wall by the corner with his muscular arms crossing his taut chest. He’s not in a suit for once; he actually looks almost normal in tight dark blue jeans and a white t-shirt. A hint of a tattoo peeks from under his sleeve. He’s built like a god. If I can see the outline of his muscles over his shirt, it makes me wonder how he would look naked. No, stop staring, but why? Just because I dislike him doesn't make me blind. My eyes go back up to his face, and our gazes lock. He smirks, and I know I've been caught. I stand my ground because I did nothing wrong. It’s not a crime to look.
“So you know how to follow instructions? Color me impressed.”
“Are you guys going to tell me why you came by, or will I have to play ‘twenty questions’ until I get an answer?”
Maxim pushes off the wall and walks toward me. That's when I notice he’s carrying a folder.
“I assume that's the NDA you need me to sign? Don’t think I will sign this and not read it.”
He gets very close to my face, and I step back. “Hello, krasavitsa. Nice to see you again.” I see a glint of mischief in his eyes.
“Uh, why are you being so nice?”
He leans close to my ear and says in a husky tone, “Why are you not on the floor waiting for me, kotyonok? I was looking forward to seeing the red lingerie.”