So this was what truly mattered to Ivan.

His concern for her had nothing to do with old feelings; he was only worried because The Silverstein Group was about to partner with them.

In Ivan's eyes, she was still, after all, Mrs. Harcourt. If she didn't know how to play

her part, and Jarrod took offense, it could cause quite a ripple.

Elodie looked at him quietly. "Is that all you wanted to say to me?"

"No," Ivan stubbed out his cigarette and met her eyes. "Queenie doesn't know about our past. I'd appreciate it if you got along with her."

Was that a warning to keep her mouth shut?

Elodie almost laughed.

Everything that had happened today left her feeling raw, an ache rising in her chest.

"Brother," she said with a calm, almost distant tone, "if she's ever curious about how you came to be my brother, maybe I'll chat with her. But is there really anything else left between us?"

Ivan's brow furrowed.

knowing smile played at his lips. "You really have grown up, Elodie. There was a time when

him was no secret to

tuck those feelings away, and he admired her

a pointed reminder, "Men fooling around outside is nothing unusual. Queenie doesn't know you're his wife, and it's best

what Jarrod wants?"

to leave, offering no

her skin. Elodie

swore he'd never let any man mistreat her, never let anyone hurt her-now he just stood by as she sunk deeper, telling her not to make things difficult for his girlfriend and

Jarrod and the others were chatting as

pure chance. From this encounter, he'd learned that Sylvie and Queenie were close-they'd only had dinner together

at your side. Any plans to tie the knot?" Ivan asked

supposed to be siblings, watched him carefully,

Elodie's marriage, but he didn't care. Instead, he offered his best wishes to Sylvie and Jarrod, as if he was already certain

all, no one understood men better

set down his teacup, his tone cool and

"My dad's

paused, Elodie's face flashing across his mind. He hesitated before replying, "With your blessing, Mr. Silverstein, I promise

was

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