Page 99 of Billion Dollar Mistake

I move closer to Grams’ railing on her back patio and lean against it. “I’d say good. Most people get the boring side of me, the business one.”

“I am lucky. I know you better than most.”

I stare out into Grams’ backyard. It’s green with a small patch of grass. Beautiful flowers and trees and a veggie patch down the back.

“Better than anyone.”

“I am sure I don’t know you as well as your friends do.”

“To a certain point.”

“You go deep with me,” she says with a lighter tone. It’s almost as if I can hear the smile in her voice.

A deep chuckle leaves my chest. “Very deep. Now this time, you started it.”

She laughs. “What are you doing right now?”

“I’m standing outside on the porch in my grams’ backyard.”

“Did you go straight from work?”

I sigh. “Yeah, I have a flight tonight so I wanted to stop by.”

“That's right, you’re leaving me for two days.”

“I know. I won’t see you until Friday night. Speaking of, it's actually the reason I’m calling.”

“So you're not calling because you missed me?” she teases.

“Oh, definitely that. Hearing your voice makes it harder. It makes me want to get in my car and see you.”

“Do it.” She breathes in a soft beg.

I groan, loving how she begs so easily. “I can’t.”

“Yeah, I know…”

It’s quiet for a moment before I remember I haven't asked her yet.

“Friday night, Grams is hosting the family for dinner.”

“What for?”

I really don’t want to say it. Birthdays aren’t my thing. I don’t celebrate them. I prefer to buy gifts rather than receive them.

“My birthday,” I murmur.

“Your birthday!” She squeals.

“Calm down.” I chuckle.

My grams and her will definitely get along. They both love birthdays.

“How old are you turning?”

“Old.”

“Haha, smarty pants. Answer please.” The begging tone makes it impossible not to spill.

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