Page 161 of Billion Dollar Mistake

“I don’t like being called cute, remember?”

As if I could forget our first video call. It feels like it was only a moment ago and not that we’ve been together, coming up on nine months now.

“But you look so cuddly in your green pom-pom sweater.”

“Cuddly?” He groans.

“Where’s your mask?” I ask, knowing he has a green one, but I haven’t seen it on him.

“It looks stupid with this ugly sweater.”

“So? Take a pic. I need to see it.”

He huffs, but I know he’s doing it. A smile lifts as I hear him rustling.

I get another text notification.

I open the picture and a whine leaves my throat. He’s hot.

“Now that’s what I want to hear.”

He’s giving me fuck-me vibes with his camera stare. Even though his mask hides half of his face, it adds to the sexiness.

“Maybe keep the mask,” I admit.

“Oh, you want me to wear this mask while I fuck you, Star?”

Hearing him say those words is better than the image running through my mind.

I really wish we were together tonight because it wouldn’t be a dream; no, it would be a reality.

“Yes,” I breathe.

“Done. Well, I gotta catch my flight. Have a good night. I’ll call you tomorrow. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

I hang up and I get a text straight away.

Jeremy: I miss you.

Nova: Don’t be so needy. Go to the party and have fun.

Jeremy: Fine.

I put my phone down and head for a shower. I need to get ready.

Later that night, I board the familiar yacht. This time, I’m not worried and I won’t be meeting anyone. Jeremy isn’t here but my colleagues are.

I see Dalton waving at me, and Poppy is standing beside him.

The wind whips around my ankles that are exposed. My long black high cut sleeveless dress stops at the middle of my calf. I pull my cream shawl tighter. I wish I had brought a thicker one now. I didn’t expect it to be so cold tonight.

Poppy has her arms crossed and she’s hunched over a little. She's in a 3/4 length sleeve navy dress so I’m not the only one cold. Dalton is in a white shirt and navy shorts.

No jacket to give Poppy who looks to be struggling more than me. I hug Dalton and Poppy.

“I can’t believe it’s so cold tonight.”

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