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“Then who is this fabulous guy, although you seem about as excited as getting ready to have your tonsils removed.”

“That would be more exciting. Certainly more rewarding.”

“Then you need to tell me what is really going on.” Zoe leaned forward. I’d told no one about my family. Granted, I hadn’t changed my name so there was always a chance people had an inkling who my father was, but no one had dared confront me with any questions over the years.

“All I can say is that it’s a family obligation. It’s good for business.”

“Business. Right. So, we’re talking an arranged marriage?” She laughed, acting as if the entire thing was a big joke.

If only it was.

“Oh, my God,” she breathed. “That’s what this is. Is that even allowed by law?”

I suddenly felt extremely uncomfortable. Since I’d insisted on returning to work and my home, I’d had my suspicions I was being watched. The term ‘protected’ would be used, but it felt like an infringement of my rights.

Of course I knew right now would be the perfect opportunity to expand on the weakness Alejandro had mentioned, but just ending my life and starting another one wasn’t acceptable.

“It is if there’s a contract involved.”

“That you signed?”

“I didn’t need to.”

“Oh, Jesus. Who is your father?”

I laughed. Lately, almost every sound I made was bitter. The moment I’d seen my little boy throwing his arms around Alejandro’s neck, I’d vowed to kill the man. I was a doctor. I’d taken a vow to protect life and all I could think about was killing him.

Yet all I’d been dreaming about when I’d managed to fall asleep was fucking him. That was simply crazy.

I’d been able to taste him, including the blood I’d drawn, for almost a full day after we’d kissed in front of everyone at the party. Lately, his face had crowded too many of my waking hours.

I couldn’t stand the fact I’d almost enjoyed the spanking.

“He’s dangerous. That’s all I can tell you.” The admittance was easy to do. He was treachery in a well-tailored suit.

“So why not say no?”

“That’s not allowed. I know it’s very tough to understand, but my parents were born in Sicily. They believe in the old Italian ways.”

“It’s funny. You really don’t seem Italian at all,” Zoe said. “Is this guy at least cute?”

“Yes, he’s cute, but we aren’t compatible.”

“When is the wedding? Am I invited?”

I had to squeeze her hand. “I’d love to have you there, but I just can’t. I wish I could explain why, but it’s better if you didn’t know.”

“I don’t like what I’m hearing. It’s just not like you.”

The coffee normally made me feel refreshed. Not today. I wasn’t certain any liquid other than maybe consuming an entire bottle of wine could do that. Doing so wasn’t on the horizon. I still had details to plan regarding the clinic. “I know, but I don’t have any choices. For the time being, I’ve managed to secure another doctor to fill in. He’s a good guy, his reputation top notch, but you’re in charge. Okay? I need you to keep everything going. I’ll be available by phone every day except for my… wedding day.”

Muttering the words was difficult.

“When is that?”

I glanced at my watch. “In two days.” My God. How was I going to get through the atrocity?

And what about the wedding night?