Page 272 of Billionaire Temptations

“No. I’m sitting in a coffeehouse in Brooklyn.”

“Which one?”

I looked up at the menu on the wall.

“Blue Bottle Coffee.”

“I’m on my way. Do not leave there.”

I picked up the white coffee cup and held it between my hands as I sipped it and stared out onto the wet streets of Brooklyn. The rain didn’t seem to want to let up. As I reflected on my thoughts, the door to the coffeehouse opened, and Jackson stepped inside, closing his umbrella. Walking over to the table, he stood there and looked at me as he tilted his head to the side.

“Were you out playing in the rain?” he asked.

I couldn’t help but let a small smile cross my lips.

“Something like that.”

He sat across from me, and the waitress flew over immediately.

“You look like you could use a fresh hot cup of coffee.” She smiled.

“That sounds good. Just black.”

“Coming right up.” She winked as she walked away.

Jackson reached over and grabbed hold of my hand resting on the table.

“Give me the run down.”

I inhaled a deep breath as I stared at him.

“Gregory is definitely my father. My mother lied to me not only about him but about my grandfather. In fact, she lied to me about everything. She couldn’t stick around and wait for Gregory because of her own fears.”

“And Crystal knew this the whole time?”

“Yeah.” I nodded my head. “But my mother made her promise that she would never speak of it.”

“I’m sorry, Emily,” he spoke as his thumb stroked my hand.

“Me too. I went to her grave and pretty much told her off.”

“Do you feel better now?”

“A little.” I lightly smiled.

The corners of his mouth curved upward. I was happy he was here. In fact, I was always happy with him in my life, and it felt good. We talked for a while longer, and then we climbed into his limo, and he drove me home.

“I wish I could stay, but I have a meeting tonight,” he spoke.

“I’m fine, Jackson. Evelyn and Katie are coming over later.”

He leaned over and kissed my lips.

“I’ll call to check up on you after my meeting.”

“Okay.” I smiled.

I was exhausted, so I changed into my sweatpants and a tank top and lay on top of the bed for a nap before my friends came over.

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