Page 117 of Billion Dollar Revenge

“What is it, then? He was happy before.”

“I was too.”

Her gaze drops to the gardenias. “He’s never brought a woman flowers.”

His family is well aware he’s not been with another woman since his ex.

“We want different things for our future,” I admit.

“He’s fallen for you, dear.”

Hearing those words makes my heart crack. It’s supposed to make me feel better, but it doesn’t. “I’ve fallen for him too. But I want what my parents have. Since I was little, I dreamed of that fairy tale love.”

“You know his past.”

“I do.”

“Then things will work out the way they’re meant to.”

I give her a small smile as hope flares in my chest. “I hope you’re right.”

I miss him.

“I can see why he likes you.”

I wait for her to explain because I don’t.

“We're so different.”

“Exactly. You’re fun. Yet caring. He needs your energy to bring him back to life.”

“What was he like growing up?” I ask curiously.

“My boy was caring and cautious.” Eliza stands beside Iris, joining our conversation.

“He’s still the same,” I say with a smile.

“With you, he’s the old Evan, but the last few years, he’s been withdrawn.” His mom’s eyes wash over with sadness.

Iris’s mouth flattens. “His ex wasn’t very kind.”

Iris is so polite. I’m sure those aren’t the words everyone else would use for her, but I love and respect Iris’s opinion.

“Excuse me,” Summer interrupts. “Chelse. Do you want to do the speech now?”

Checking the time on my watch, I see Summer came right on time.

“Oh yes, thanks. Sorry, ladies.”

“Go.” Eliza waves her hand, encouraging me.

I head off toward the DJ and explain I’ll do a quick speech. I put the flowers down and stand at the front of the room.

With the mic in my hand, I suddenly take a mental picture of the full room. All the support for me to succeed. It gives me the push to tap the mic.

Everyone’s chatter silences.

“Hi. Thanks, everyone, for coming today. I was just looking at you all and thinking how lucky I am to have all your support. I hope you're all having a good time. There’s plenty of food and drinks. And now is the time to let your hair down and dance.”

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