Page 34 of The Billionaire Benefactor

Jenny hoped Charles wasn’t watching from inside. Not that they touched, but he could probably read enough in Roman’s face. But Charles was in the kitchen, putting away her groceries. He looked up and smiled as though nothing had happened.

Jenny twisted off the ring and set it on the counter. “Charles, I appreciate the sentiment, I can’t wear this. I don’t want to wear any ring right now.”

“It’s not an engagement ring,” Charles said, eyes furrowed.

“Then what is it? What are you doing with all these gifts and coming by all the time?”

“I’m just being kind,” he said, clearly irritated. “Trying to help.”

“Is that all?” She challenged him with a glance, crossing her arms over her chest.

“Is that all Roman Bennett is doing?”

She knew her expression gave her away, but she didn’t back down. “We’re not talking about him. We’re talking about you.”

“But answer the question—why does he keep showing up here? What’s going on with you two?”

Jenny huffed. “He was just trying to help.”

“That’s what I’m doing. Why is it different?”

“He’s not putting a ring on my finger. That’s just beyond the scope of helping me. It’s too much.”

Charles went back to putting away groceries, but she could read the tension in the line of his shoulders. “What’s the thing he said he’d take care of when he left? That sounded big. If you’re letting him help you, why can’t I?”

“You can help,” she said finally. “Just no more gifts like this. Okay?”

“For now,” Charles said.

“No, Charles—I’m not interested in something with you.”

“Who said I was interested?” He gave a harsh laugh. “I was just being nice, Jenny. You’re reading too much into things. I’ve got to get back to work.”

He didn’t even look at her before he left. Jenny felt a sting of guilt. Jenny pressed her hands to her still-warm cheeks. Had she misread his intent? Was she misreading Roman too?

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