by Risk, Mona
“Cecilya, you are all I have left to love and to hold in this world. But…” He struggled with his emotions.
“But what?”
“I have nothing to offer, my love. No job, no money, no future.”
Cecile jolted her head up, a dazzling smile gleaming on her face. “I want you. Just you.”
He gazed at her. She was so beautiful, naked in his arms, pleading for his love. Could they still be happy together? He sucked in a deep breath. For her, he would start again. Wherever she wanted. With Cecilya at his side, he could see a new future, beautiful moments.
His lips clung to hers in a passionate kiss and his tongue plundered the recess of her mouth.
Cecile relaxed against him. He hadn’t spoken the words she wanted to hear but it didn’t matter anymore. She knew he still loved her.
His stomach grumbled. She laughed. “Your big body needs sustenance. Come let’s eat. I’ve cooked and baked.”
“I smelled it from the elevator.” He stood, tugging at her hand. His eyes narrowed. “Don’t think you can seduce me with a frilly nightgown and a good meal. We still have to talk.”
She glanced at him. He was smiling. She threw her arms around his neck and raised her head to kiss him. But he pulled back and cupped her chin, challenging her. “I have already asked you to marry me. Twice. I won’t do it again.”
“You’re right. It’s my turn to propose.” She kneeled on the bed beside him. As his gaze trailed over her breasts, she draped the sheet around her shoulders to shield herself from his scorching heat. She took his hand and pressed it against her cheek. “Major General Sergei Fedorin, my hero, my love, would you like to come with me tomorrow to the American Embassy? Would you marry me and file an entry visa application for the U.S.?”
He closed his eyes, squeezing her against him. “I will marry you, Cecilya. And I will file the application. But leaving Belarus will be hard. I made a pledge and I didn’t keep it.”
She didn’t doubt he’d forgiven her. But he’d never be able to forget. His unfulfilled promise to Sofya would make her staunch officer sway between the present and the past, between happiness and remorse. And deep in his heart he’d probably hold her responsible. She wanted a clean break from the past and had already taken the right step.
“Sergei, there’s something I have to tell you. Before coming here, I had a private talk with Rob.”
He jolted back and released her. “You ask me to marry you. Then you confess you met privately with your ex-fiancé?” He crossed his arms on his chest, frowning.
“Hold it, darling. Don’t go jumping on your big horse. Rob is crazy about Tania and wants to marry her. He said, at least Tania doesn’t compete with him. She doesn’t question his every word. Apparently I used to do that,” she added with a chuckle.
Sergei scowled. “And what has this to do with us?”
“John doesn’t want me to resign. And for the first time in his life, Rob has acknowledged he needs my expertise. But I won’t stay with EAL unless you agree.”
“You do what you want, Cecile.” She felt his withdrawal and sighed.
“Wait. There’s more. Rob and I called the EAL president in Boston. We told him about the past days’ events. The boss asked us if you’d be interested in a position as a liaison officer with EAL. I highly recommended you. Rob supported my recommendation.”
Sergei raised incredulous brows. “Are you serious? Your boss wants to hire me?”
She nodded. “After all, you know the local government and various agencies better than anyone. Your joining the EAL team would greatly facilitate our job here.”
He grabbed her shoulders and almost shook her. “You mean we would stay in Minsk? We would work together on the environmental cleanup of Belarus?”
She laughed, an incredible happiness flooding her heart. “Yes, Sergei, yes. You’ll keep your promise to Sofya and you’ll still serve your country…from the other side of the fence.”
“Call your boss, Cecilya. Call him right away. Tell him I accept.” Pulling her into his arms, he crushed her in a fierce hug. “I love you, my darling. Lublum yavas,” he whispered, before his lips captured her mouth in a breath-stealing kiss.
Epilogue
A large crowd of officers and friends gathered at the Minsk International Airport to say goodbye and wish a safe trip to Mr. and Mrs. Sergei Fedorin. Cecile pointed to the mechanical escalator. It was still there and still broken.
Sergei held her hand. “Don’t go near it alone, my love. We don’t need a roller coaster ride.”
It was just a year ago when the young American Program Manager had arrived in Minsk and turned his life upside down with her lovely smile and independent mind.
He had no regrets.
Two days after his resignation, the entire American delegation insisted on accompanying him and Cecile, and Rob and Tania to the US Embassy. The ambassador performed two weddings back to back and approved two visa applications.
Sergei still couldn’t believe the number of high-ranking personalities who showed up at the Cathedral and the reception organized by the Second Lady to celebrate the happy occasion. The press acclaimed Mr. and Mrs. Fedorin, the very close friends of the Vice-President, with gorgeous pictures and flattering captions.
With a slap on the back, Nicolai pulled him out of his reminiscences. “You completed your mission and Cecile has closed her contract. We will continue the long-term monitoring and cleanup of Belarus. But remember, you have friends here. Yelena and I will look after your flat until you come back to visit.”
Cecile wiped her eyes and sniffled. “Nicolai, we will never forget you. I promise we will be back next year.”
Nicolai hugged both of them. Sergei led his wife toward the aircraft.
As the plane climbed, Sergei gazed through the window at the country where he’d lived all his life.
The tip of his fingers touched his forehead in a military salute and a lump clogged his throat as he murmured, “Dasvidania, Belarus. Goodbye.”
THE END
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If you enjoyed To Love A Hero, you might also enjoy these other books by Mona Risk.
Christmas Babies
Holiday Babies, Book 1
More than 102 five-star reviews. Praise for Christmas Babies...
“Mona Risk once again delivers an emotional story of great depth that touches the heart.”~ Debbie A.
“Love the book. I read it in one night and couldn’t put it down. The author is very good. I want to read more of her books.”~ L. Holloway
“This was a good book I would read again in the future.”~Danielle Whitney
“Very heartfelt and funny. Colorful and sad, but a great book to read.”~ Chrisy Miller
“I enjoyed it immensely and definitely keeping it to reread it.”~Christina Strawn
A heartwarming holiday story, set in South Florida.
Christmas is such a joyful Season. Except for the serious Dr. Madelyn Ramsay who has no time for fun. An unexpected health problem jolts her into the realization that there’s more to life than just work—more, like dating the charming but secretive Dr. Nick Preston and caring for the newborn twins nobody wants. Or more, like enjoying her Christmas gifts before it’s too late.
Read a sample or buy Christmas Babies on Amazon.com: http://tinyurl.com/burgd9j
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Valentine Babies
Holiday B
abies, Book 2
More than 53 five-star reviews. Praise for Valentine Babies...
“This is a sweet love story. It flows really well and is well written. It will take you on an adventure; heart ache, tragedy, falling in love, overcoming fears, and a happy ending.”~ Ravin
“Valentine babies was a great read that was sweet and satisfying romantic read that leaves you feeling all warm and fuzzy”~ Lori A Tyler
“I am a hopeless romantic. Not many books make me happy but this one really did.”~A. Martinez
“Quick reading story. Had me hooked from the beginning.”~ Beth Henry
Fearless reporter, Roxanne Ramsay, doesn’t think twice before traveling for important assignments, even in a war zone—until her last trip leads her to a life-altering mistake.
At his best friends’ wedding, Dr. Greg Hayes, who has a serious phobia of planes, can’t take his eyes off the lovely maid of honor. But why is Roxanne blinking away tears? Getting involved with the strong-headed and too generous reporter involves more complications than the bright doctor has ever faced in the OR. Yet what wouldn’t he do to save the love of his life and her baby?
Read a sample or buy Valentine Babies on Amazon.com at: http://tinyurl.com/avb2kbu
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Mother’s Day Babies
Holiday Babies, Book 3
More than 16 five-star reviews. Praise for Mother’s Day Babies...
“As a mother and a daughter, I appreciate this wonderful story.”~ Glenda
“A really lovely story of romance between a mature couple that will tug at your heart strings.” ~Loves Reading
“Thank you for a wonderful read, I was so sad when it was over!” ~Anna
Widowed for seven years, Barbara Ramsay lives and breathes for her five grownup daughters and their babies. She's also used to chatting over the phone with her good friend, Lou. But why has he invited her to come to Paris with his TV Network crew?
Powerful News Director, Lou Roland is certainly not marriage material, yet he has suddenly decided he wants Barbara in his arms. Not an easy task when his pretty confidante from Kentucky proves so difficult to date--unless he follows her rules. Can the over-fifty confirmed bachelor and the widow loyal to her husband's memory find true love and share a future?
Read a sample or buy Mother’s Day Babies on Amazon.com at:
http://tinyurl.com/cz3v5a8
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Babies in the Bargain
Babies in the Bargain, voted BEST ROMANCE NOVEL at Preditors & Editors Readers Poll 2009.
Babies in the Bargain won 2010 BEST CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE NOVEL at Readers Favorite and Readers Favorite and winner of a Gold Medal.
Praise for Babies in the Bargain...
“Babies in the Bargain is one novel that pulls you into the story and holds you captive to the last page.”~ Romance Junkies
“Babies in the Bargain was just amazing! It started out very dramatic and got my attention from the first paragraph.”~ The Long And The Short Reviews
“The story is one that will leave the reader believing in the power of true love.”~ Sally Pink Reviews.
With only one year left to complete her medical training, Dr. Holly Collier vows not to let anyone mess up her schedule. Especially not Dr. Marc Suarez. The heartthrob of the hospital who used to collect sports' trophies and nurses' kisses broke her heart seven years ago.
When a tragic accident transforms the carefree playboy into a dedicated, but novice father to his nephew, Holly gives in to her maternal instincts and turns her structured life upside down for the orphaned preemie. But can she learn to trust Marc again and believe in true love?
Read a sample or buy Babies in the Bargain on Amazon.com at: http://tinyurl.com/6mcd6e3
* * * *
No More Lies
2011 EPPIE Award Finalist.
2010 Best Contemporary Romance at Readers Favorite and winner of a Gold Medal.
Praise for No More Lies...
“Such a charming story. Keeping the reader entertained with the twists and turns in the plot.” ~Got Romance!
“Full of emotion, suspense, intrigue, good intentions and determination.” ~The Long And The Short Reviews
“A wonderfully written book about true love and the rarity of second chances.” ~Happily Ever After
A lie that brings a smile... or the truth that draws tears?
Dr. Olivia Crane lives a quiet life. No one questions why she doesn't socialize or where she spends every weekend. When the visiting physician from France strolls into her office, with open arms and a confident smile, her perfect control is about to crumble.
Good God, he can't be Dr. Luc George, the man she loved ten years ago? Should she return his scorching kisses, or should she lock her door before he digs into her many secrets?
Secret daughter, secret friend, secret enemy. Had Luc really known his sweet Olivia back then? He wants her back, but he wants the truth, too. Now, Olivia has to face her past before she can grab her second chance.
Read a sample or buy No More Lies on Amazon.com at: http://tinyurl.com/79r88wp
* * * *
Right Name, Wrong Man
Praise for Right Name, Wrong Man...
“Unforgettable! Pulled me in within the first chapter and kept me hooked.”~ Seniorcitizen
“This contemporary romance has it all: a strong likeable heroine who has overcome problems that will resonate with many readers, a to-die-for hero, the perfect alpha male, and a fantastic setting in the beautiful French countryside.”~Loves Romance
“This is a must read. If you like it then I also recommend "Babies in the Bargain" and "No More Lies". They are truly art in words.” ~ Cheryl Hayes Gassen
What's a girl to do when she whispers another man's name in her fiancé's arms?
When forbidden dreams about the sexy French Dr. Yves Malroux assail her at every turn, Mary-Beth puts her wedding plans on hold. The man would probably not even remember the plump nerd she was three years ago, before she lost her illusions faster than her pounds. Regardless, to be able to marry her fiancé without any reservations, Mary-Beth needs to confront her past, and flies to France for a summer training program in surgery with Yves.
But Yves never forgets an organ he removed from a patient or a woman he dated. And he never forgot the pretty student of Harvard Medical School who has turned into a stunning beauty, and now seems in need of coaching about spicing her serious life with some fun and passion.
While too many questions still swirled in her mind, her jealous fiancé summons her back home. Will Mary-Beth let her heart decide who's her right man? Will Yves break his no-strings-attached rule to offer love and commitment?
Read a sample or buy Right Name, Wrong Man on Amazon.com http://tinyurl.com/85o4wg7
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Neighbors and More (High Rise Series)
Praise for Neighbors and More...
“Mona Risk was able to keep you guessing until the very end of the book, a page turner for sure, as to who the perpetrators of the various crimes were. ”~ Cheryl Hayes Gassen
“With a cast of interesting secondary characters and a beautifully described setting, this is a compelling romantic suspense. ” ~Loves Romance
“A great take-you-away read for a summer weekend!” ~Michele Drier
Neighbors and More is a romantic suspense, and the first book of the High Rise Series.
High Rises are like large families where members face love, hate, meddling, and gossiping. When the neighbor who was harassing her is found dead in the Jacuzzi, Alexa is a prime suspect. Can she count on her dear neighbors, including the delectable Italian, Dante, for help? With too many skeletons in their own closets, would they save or incriminate her?
Read a sample or buy Neighbors and More on Amazon.com at: http://tinyurl.com/96bjqcm
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Her Greek Romance
Praise for Her Greek Romance...
“It's like a Mini Vacation! Mona Risk Creates a 'New Subgenre': The `Highly
Romantic' Romance!” Vincent Mooney
“Her Greek Romance is a wonderful romantic escape with a beautiful romantic setting. I highly recommend it.”~ Sally Pink Reviews
A sexy and humorous Contemporary Romance
— Romeo and Juliette Greek style
— Love letters from the past and a crumbling pink villa.
—A Greek God--well, no, an ordinary man who only looks like one--and a lovely and brilliant American attorney.
—All set in Mykonos Island.
In court, Ashley is in for a nasty surprise about her handsome Greek god and Stefano is about to lose the only woman who's ever touched his heart. Will Stefano be able to convince Ashley he's not the enemy anymore?
Read a sample or buy Her Greek Romance on Amazon.com at: http://tinyurl.com/7xwp8eo
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A Word about the author...
In a past life, Mona Risk was a chemist who mixed solutions, dipped her gloved fingers in dirty waste, and ran complicated equipment in order to declare your drinking water safe for consumption. When her Ph.D. and work in chemistry landed her international contracts to refurbish laboratories, she traveled to more than sixty countries on business or vacation. To relax from her hectic schedule, she avidly read romance novels and mentally plotted her own books.
Eventually she left a scientific career to share with her readers the many stories brewing in her head. M. Risk likes to set her novels in the fascinating places she visited, from exotic Belarus, and historical France, to the beaches of Greece, the monuments of Egypt and the mysterious Islands of Seychelles.
Her books have garnered: Top Picks; Outstanding Read; Sweetheart of the Week; Best Book of the Week at various reviewers, and received two mentions in Publisher’s Weekly, and have won several awards, from Best Contemporary Romance of the Year at READERS FAVORITE with two Gold Medals Winners, to EPPIE award finalist and Best Romance Novel of the Year at Preditors & Editors Readers Poll.
Mona Risk continues to write and read while traveling and discovering unchartered territories and fresh inspiration for new stories and different settings.