Page 75 of Lost Prince

I don’t respond.

"I should probably lay off the gossip, but I can't help it. They're our very own reality show."

His bemusement lessens my unease. "I suppose they do make an impression."

Peter nods, still smiling. "Indeed, they do. But I shouldn’t be gossiping when I’m supposed to be finding a new assistant. Let's get back to your qualifications, shall we?"

“Of course.”

“So, you need a change of pace and this job could be that for you.”

Doubt resurfaces. Yes, the job could be a change, but what skills do I have to be an assistant to a businessman? It’s nothing like being a sous chef or kitchen aide. I need to be upfront with him on why this job interests me. Getting it out in the open now could save us both time.

I clear my throat. “My life circumstances have changed. I'm… I'm pregnant."

The words hang in the air between us, and I watch Peter’s expression carefully. His eyebrows rise in surprise, but I can't quite read his reaction.

"I see," he says slowly. "And how far along are you?"

"Not long. Six weeks or so.” That’s a guess, as I haven’t been to the doctor yet. "I know it's not ideal timing for starting a new job, but I want to be upfront about it. I'm committed to working hard and proving myself valuable to your company, but I’d need a short maternity leave.”

Peter leans back in his chair as he considers my words. I hold my breath, waiting for his response.

"I appreciate your honesty, Diana," he says finally. "Many women would have tried to hide their pregnancy, at least until after securing the job. Your candidness speaks volumes about your character."

I feel a glimmer of hope at his words, but I'm still unsure where this leaves me in terms of the job opportunity.

"Thank you. I’m a hard worker. Adaptable. I’m calm in a storm.”

Peter nods, a reassuring smile on his face. "I have no doubt you are. Your work ethic is clear from your resume and our interactions at the diner. As for maternity leave, we can certainly work that out. Our company prides itself on being family-friendly. Perhaps we can even negotiate some teleworking."

My chest fills with hope and excitement. This job will be perfect for me and my new life. “That would be wonderful.”

He reaches out and puts his hand over mine. “You and the baby will be well taken care of.” His gaze shifts to something behind me. The light dims in his eyes. There's a flicker of… recognition? Surprise? I'm not sure, but it makes me uneasy.

I turn to follow Peter’s gaze. Lazaro. His imposing figure stands just a few feet away. For a fleeting moment, joy surges through me at the sight of him. Has he come for me? Did he choose me over Ava, after all?

But as quickly as that hope rises, it's crushed by the fury I see burning across his face. His eyes, usually so warm when theylook at me, are now cold and hard. I've never seen him direct such anger toward me before. It sends a chill down my spine.

"You," Lazaro growls at me, his voice low and dangerous. "I should have known."

Confusion washes over me. "Lazaro, what?—”

He cuts me off, taking a menacing step forward. "Save it. I know what you are now. A spy for this motherfucker."

I recoil, shaking my head in disbelief. "What? No. I’m on a job?—”

"Don't lie to me!" he roars, causing nearby patrons to turn and stare. "It all makes sense now. How you always seemed to be there, always knew what to say. You were planted to keep an eye on me, on my family, weren't you?"

I struggle to comprehend his words. How could he think this of me after everything we've shared?

Fear begins to creep in as I watch Lazaro's hands clench into fists at his sides. I know what those hands are capable of when he loses control. What is he going to do?

28

LAZARO

It's been a week since my talk with Lana. Life is still hard, but things are better between me and my family. Elio hasn't told Rinella my plans not to marry Ava. I suspect he hopes that if I can't find Diana and convince her to be with me, I'll give in and marry Ava.