Page 37 of “Not” Engaged to the Grumpy Billionaire

Becky’s eyes narrow as she finally acknowledges my presence, her gaze sweeping over me with disdain.

"This isn’t about her. It’s about Max."

I feel my pulse quicken at the mention of Max. It’s not lost on me that Max isn’t here today, staying back with Sue because he wasn’t feeling well this morning. I wonder if Becky’s aware of that, or if she is just using his name as a way to get to Nate.

Nate’s jaw clenches, and I can see the anger simmering just beneath the surface.

"We can talk about Max somewhere else. This isn’t the place."

Becky’s eyes flash with annoyance.

"Have you been dating Liz while we were still married?" she accuses, her voice low but sharp.

Nate’s eyes darken, and his grip on my hand tightens.

"I respected our marriage, Becky. You didn’t! I never cheated on you. Remember, that was you?"

Becky scoffs, her gaze still fixed on me.

"Well, isn’t that convenient for you? Now you’ve got your little... consolation prize." Her words are laced with venom, and I can feel the sting of her insult, even though I know it is only meant to provoke Nate.

Before I can react, Nate steps forward, placing himself between me and Becky. His voice drops to a dangerous, quiet tone.

"Don’t ever talk about Liz like that. Ever."

The intensity in his voice surprises me. I feel a strange mix of emotions—gratitude, surprise, and something else I can’t quite place.

Becky’s lips curl into a sneer.

"This isn’t over," she hisses, her eyes blazing with anger. Sweeping her arm toward me, "She won’t come between our family."

Nate’s expression hardens, his voice cold.

"We stopped being family a long time ago, Becky. I have moved on. You should too."

Becky’s face twists with rage, but she doesn’t respond. Instead, she turns on her heel and storms off, her departure leaving a heavy silence between us.

I exhale, trying to process everything that just happened. Nate’s hand finally loosens its grip on mine, but he doesn’t let go completely.

"You okay?" he asks, his voice softer now, the anger from moments ago fading.

I nod, though I’m not sure I’m okay. My mind is racing, trying to make sense of the whirlwind of emotions that has swept through me.

"Yeah. I’m fine," I manage to say, though my heart is still pounding.

Nate’s hand is still warm in mine, and I can’t help but wonder what this all really means—for both of us.

***

It’s Monday and we’ve finished work. I’m more than ready to head home and relax when Nate’s voice stops me at the door.

"Liz," he calls, his tone casual, but there is something else there—something that makes me turn around.

"I was thinking..." He clears his throat, glancing at the floor before meeting my eyes again.

"I want to take you out to dinner tonight."

I blink, surprised.

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