Page 20 of Stuck with the Billionaire Celebrity

“I’m not hovering,” he says, his voice low. “I just don’t like people in my space. Especially people who don’t know how to respect it.”

I let out a frustrated laugh. “Right. Well, sorry for invading your precious sanctuary. I’ll get out of your way so you can brood in peace.”

He doesn’t respond, just glares at me, his eyes burning with irritation. The tension between us is thick enough to cut with a knife. I know I’m pushing his buttons but I can’t help it. He makes it so damn easy.

As I start toward a bench, his phone buzzes in his pocket. He glances at the screen, his frown deepening.

“Devon and Sarah are here,” he says, sliding his phone back into his pocket. “They’ve brought your things. You should go meet them.”

“Fine,” I mutter, grabbing my water bottle and heading for the door.

But just as I reach it, I pause, glancing back at him. “For the record, I don’t want to be here any more than you want me here.

But Devon said it’s temporary, so maybe we can both try to coexist… without biting each other’s heads off.”

Theo’s expression remains unreadable, but he gives a slight nod. “Doubtful.”

Jerk.

I make my way to the front of the house, where Devon and Sarah are waiting just outside the door, a few suitcases at theirfeet. As soon as I step outside, Sarah rushes over to me, pulling me into a hug.

“Thank God,” she says, squeezing me tightly. “I’ve been so worried about you.”

“I’m fine,” I reply, though my voice sounds more tired than reassuring.

Devon steps forward, a concerned look on his face. “How are things with Theo?”

I roll my eyes, leaning against the doorframe.

“About as well as you’d expect. He hates having me here.

I swear, every time I do anything, he acts like I’ve committed some mortal sin.”

Sarah gives me a sympathetic look, but Devon just sighs.

“You have to understand, Grace. Theo’s… particular about his space.

Especially after the stuff with Alexia. He doesn’t let people in easily.”

“Yeah, I got that,” I mutter.

“But it’s exhausting walking on eggshells around him. I can’t even make coffee without him getting annoyed.”

“Just try to play nice,” Devon chuckles.

“It’s only temporary. I’m working on getting everything sorted out, but until then, you need to stay here.

Theo’s house is the safest place for you right now.”

I cross my arms and groan. “I know. It’s just… hard. I like having my own space and peace, too.”

“I get it,” Devon says, resting a hand on my shoulder. “But trust me, it’s better than the alternative. You don’t want to be out there on your own with your stalker still lurking around.”

I nod, knowing he’s right but still feeling the frustration gnawing at me. “I’ll try.”

“That’s all I’m asking,” Devon replies with a small smile. “Just keep your head down, and I’ll take care of the rest.”

Sarah gives me another hug. “Take advantage of this, Theo doesn’t letanyoneinto his world, so this is a big deal. He really is a great guy, you’ll see that.”

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