Page 32 of A Baby For Her Billionaire BFF

“Just checking in on my favorite corporate power couple. How are things with you and Mr. High-Rise?” Her words carry the playful tease we’ve perfected over countless coffee dates.

“Actually, pretty amazing,” I confess, feeling a warmth that has nothing to do with the coffee in my hands. “Oliver’s been… incredible. We’re finding our rhythm, you know? Despite the insane hours.”

“Sounds serious, Nora. You guys taking over the business world together yet?” Lynn’s laugh is a bright sound, and I join in.

“Something like that.” I pause by the elevator, hitting the call button. “We’re both swamped, but we make time. Dinner dates between meetings, late-night strategy sessions. It’s kind of perfect in its own chaotic way.”

“Wow, listen to you! So, this could be the real deal, huh?”

The elevator dings, and I step inside, leaning against the cool metal wall. “Yeah, I think it might be,” I say quietly, a truth I hadn’t fully admitted even to myself until now.

“About time, girl. You deserve this.”

“Thanks, Lynnie.” My heart feels full, buoyed by her support and the unexpected turn my life has taken. “I’ll catch you later, okay? Duty calls.”

“Go conquer the courtroom, warrior. Talk soon!”

I tuck my phone away as the elevator doors close, sealing me inside. A reflection stares back at me from the polished surface — a woman in love, a lawyer with a purpose, standing at the precipice of something wonderful. Oliver and I have climbed mountains separately, but now, it seems we’re charting new territory side by side. And I can’t wait to see the view from the top — with him.

CHAPTER 17

OLIVER

Idrum my fingers on the metal table, the sound drowned out by the clang of utensils and the chatter of the lunch crowd. Ben’s got his typical laid-back grin as he digs into his Caesar salad, oblivious to the bombshell I’m about to drop.

“Man, you wouldn’t believe the project they’re launching,” he says between bites, mustard dressing at the corner of his mouth. “It’s this massive, mixed-use development?—”

“Speaking of massive developments…” I cut in, the words tumbling out before I lose my nerve, “I’ve been seeing someone.”

Ben pauses mid-chew, eyebrows shooting up. “Oh yeah?” He swallows, leaning back in his chair with an interest that seems more professional than personal. “New investor? Someone I know?”

Of course he would think I’m talking about an investor. My romantic entanglements have been few, far between, and short.

“Not exactly.” My heart does a weird skip. “I mean I’ve been dating someone. It’s Nora.”

His fork drops with a clatter. “Nora? As in, Nora from college Nora? The Nora who works with us?”

“Yep, that Nora.” I grin, the sound of her name sending a thrill through me. I pick at my sandwich, suddenly not so hungry.

“Oliver, man, that’s huge!” He laughs, shaking his head. “About time you got your act together with her.”

“Tell me about it.” My smile feels permanent.

The moment hangs between us, comfortable and familiar. Ben has seen me through failed ventures and fleeting romances, always the constant in a sea of change. And now, as everything starts falling into place, his approval means the world.

“Your turn, then,” I say, nudging him with my foot under the table. “When are you gonna find a girl, settle down?”

He holds up a hand, chuckling. “Whoa there, chief. Slow down. The bachelor life suits me just fine.”

“Come on, you don’t want to end up a lonely old man surrounded by models and yachts.” I tease him, trying to imagine Ben tied down. It’s like picturing a wild bird in a cage — unthinkable.

“Lonely? Please.” Ben scoffs, tossing his napkin onto his empty plate. “I’m enjoying the freedom. No complications, no commitments.”

“All right, Casanova,” I concede with a laugh, knowing better than to push.

Ben moves to his own rhythm, always has. But I can’t shake the feeling that one day, he’ll meet someone who’ll make him want to dance to a different beat. Just like with what happened to me.

“Ready to get back?” Ben stands and stretches. “Those contracts won’t sign themselves.”

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