Page 119 of Billion Dollar Mistake

“Let me message him and find out.”

I unlock my screen and quickly type out a message to Jeremy.

Nova: Hi! Where are you?

Jeremy: I’m sorry I am caught up at work. I’ll be there soon.

Nova: How long is soon? My dad needs his medication and then he goes to bed.

Jeremy: I’m so sorry. Half an hour maybe?

I inhale a deep breath and close my eyes tightly. His absence tonight is disappointing. It shows me he may not value my family as much as I did his, which is unacceptable considering the importance my family holds for me, and he’s well aware of that.

My heart pounds so hard in my chest as I type the words.

Nova: Don’t worry about it then.

I stare at it for a second before I put my phone on silent and tuck it away.

“He said he’s still working. Let’s eat.”

“Of course,” Mom says, raising her brows. “But are you okay?”

“I’m fine.”

I don’t want her to worry about me. I’m ready to enjoy a nice meal with my family.

Five minutes later, Mom starts serving our plates.

I get up from the sofa and help put the plates on the table. The chicken, potatoes, and vegetables look delicious. I’m really hungry now.

“Dinner is ready,” I call out.

My father gets out of his chair and leaves the TV on. He walks over to his dining chair and takes a seat.

Mom puts bread in the middle of the table and then takes her seat. We all take some and begin eating when the door rings.

My eyes widen. Is it him?

Mom pushes her chair out.

I hold out my hand. “I got it.”

Mom brings her chair back in when Dad nods. I stand and go to the door.

I take a deep breath and open the door. A sudden coldness hits my core. He’s standing there in a black suit with a downturned mouth, holding two massive bunches of red roses. The black compliments his smoldering eyes and dark hair.

“Hi, Star.”

“What are those?” I murmur.

“One is for you, and one is for your mom. I’m really sorry I’m so late.”

That gets my brain working.

“You should come in and apologize to them too.”

I step back, one hand on the door handle and the other hanging slack by my side. He steps into the house, coming to stand in the entrance and the familiar buzz from being around him hits me.

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