Page 39 of Billion Dollar Revenge

“Is there anything you’d like to tell me? Obviously, this conversation is strictly confidential.”

Her eyebrows knit together. “No. But is there something you want me to be aware of?”

I lower the paper to my desk to give myself a moment to collect my thoughts. “I just wanted to affirm that you can always bring any issues within the office to me.”

Relief floods her face, and she smiles kindly at me. “Thank you, Mr. Lincoln. It’s nice to work for someone who cares about their staff.”

I nod. Some would say I care too much. But I’d rather be on the floor and hands-on, than a pencil pusher. “Here, take this and publish it on the allocated date.”

Standing promptly, she takes the paper from my hands and turns to leave.

When I’m alone, I spin back to face my computer so I can continue working, but I can’t concentrate. My mind is back on Chelsea.

Why would Bobby cheat on her?

I come up empty before I’m shaking my head at myself. I can’t believe I went to a Pilates class of hers.

It’s because I remember after my breakup, things were rough. I spent days wondering when and how it all went wrong. I threw myself into work, trying to drown out the pain. My family was my lifeline during that time. I remember Jeremy being the first to come over; he didn’t say much, just sat with me, sharing a drink in silence. His way of letting me know he was there for me, no questions asked.

Next was my brother Harvey. He’d drag me out of bed on the weekends to run with him. I was never in the mood, but he wouldn’t leave my house unless I did it. I must admit the fresh air and exertion did help me sleep better.

Oliver was there with my parents and Gram; they were the practical thinkers, sharing their optimism and offering emotional support. They helped me pack and move houses. I could have stayed and paid her off, but I wanted to escape the memories we shared in that place. They would talk to me about which items needed to be divided, and Gram made sure I was eating properly.

All of them reassured me I could get through it and didn’t allow me to drown in self-pity. They pulled me through the darkest of days. Now, I’m doing the same for Chelsea, as well as Nova and Summer. I know her family isn’t able to help her.

I grab my phone that’s sitting on my desk and see an alert for a new message. She replied to a text I sent her earlier. I’m fighting this attraction I feel for her because I don’t want a relationship, but fuck, I can’t stay away.

Me:You’re right. I’m in so much pain today. I can barely move.

Chelsea:I warned you. Take a magnesium bath, go for a walk and stretch.

Me:I don’t like baths.

Chelsea:Buy the magnesium tablets or the topical spray.

I don’t get a chance to reply before I get another text.

Chelsea:Or you could come in for another class. (Smiley face emoji)

Me:You’re kidding, right. How would another class help?

The damn thought makes my muscles quiver.

Chelsea:It helps your muscles recover quicker.

Me:I’d rather stick pins in my eyes.

Chelsea:You’re so dramatic.

Me:You’re crazy for thinking that’s a form of exercise. It’s more like a form of torture.

Chelsea:Alright, if you change your mind before Friday, let me know.

A knock sounds at my office door, so I lower the phone to my desk. “Come in.”

The door swings open and reveals my brother Oliver.

“Hey. Big E.”

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