Page 140 of After Hours

Dillon yawned. “I miss you too, babe. Day 1 here is good, just tiring.”

“That’s great to hear. I’ve been keeping up with the tabloids.” I really have. He did a radio interview this morning, and I listened to it while getting ready. Who knew that it’d be interesting to hear him talk about finances for an hour straight? “There’s something I want to tell you,” he said, his voice a bit tense. “Camilla’s here.”

The line fell silent. But then again, I should’ve known. Europe is her territory after all.

I sighed. “Thanks for telling me, but that’s her problem. As long as she keeps her paws to herself, then we won’t have a problem.”

Dillon agreed, “Figured, I just wanted to tell you. Any plans for today?”

“I’m currently at the office, but I’m gonna be doing some plans for the house, get lunch, and hang out with Mara after work. We’re going shopping.”

“My Amex is in my office. Top drawer.”

Oh. His Amex. That black card that holds more money than I can even imagine. His Centurion Black Card.

“Oh, but I don’t wa—”

He shushed me. “Just use it.”

“I don’t want to spend all your money.”

He laughed. Heavily. “Baby, you won’t even begin to scratch the surface. Plus, that’s just one of them.”

I gulped. I must have the best luck in the world to land a billionaire. “One of them?”

“The other four are with me. Anyway, I’m due to be outside in three minutes. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

We ended the conversation, and I went into his office to get the card. It was beautiful, and I felt like this was a crime. How does he have his Amex just lying around?

Slipping it into my pocket and shaking that thought, I started my productive day. A few weeks back I showed him a PowerPoint on what I think would be vital changes to the house, and he approved. So now, I’m going to be sitting with the architects to do the blueprint. It all seemed so easy, but I wanted it to be perfect. After all, we’re gonna be living there someday.

I began by reviewing blueprints and sketches for an upcoming project. The house design was unique, featuring a blend of modern and traditional elements, and it required precise attention to detail. I made sure to include everything he told me to plus there’s no budget, so I can get as crazy as I’d like. But everything will be meaningful, and I can’t wait for it to be done.

As the hours passed, I discussed design elements with the project team. We debated color schemes, materials, and the best ways to optimize. It was a busy day, but I loved every moment of it. This was my passion, and I really appreciated the fact that he gave me the chance to explore it.

By noon, I had finalized the plans for the new house and sent them off to the contractor. Feeling a sense of accomplishment, I decided it was time for a lunch break and headed to the sandwich shop nearby. I was still in shock that he bought it.

The place hadn’t changed much since my last visit, and the warm, familiar atmosphere made me feel right at home.

“Azzaria,” the security at the door called out, “we haven’t seen you in a minute. How are you?”

I smiled. “I’ve been okay, but I’m back.”

He smiled at me and wished me a good day. I was familiar with everyone here, and they all knew me by name and order. It felt refreshing.

The only thing that changed, however, was the menu. What the fuck is a “precious” meal? Whoever he has managing this needs to be let go immediately.

“What’s in the ‘Precious Meal’?”

The attendant’s smile brightened. “It’s a chicken and turkey club sandwich with freshly baked Italian herb bread, drizzled with our sweet and spicy sauce, and a variety of veggies. It also comes with an iced coffee and an extra cookie.”

“That sounds amazing. Who came up with that name?” I asked with curiosity. That was exactly my order.

“Not sure,” The attendant chuckled, “but we heard it’s was named by the new boss. He did it for his girl.”

“Wow.”

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