Page 339 of Billionaire Temptations

“You’ve been banned from the building.”

“Of course I have.” I smiled. “This is really important.”

He took hold of my arm, looked around, and walked me over to the corner.

“Your father isn’t here. He and Mr. Bondi are at a golf outing and won’t be coming back. Your best bet is to catch him at home.”

“That’s right. It is that time of year for the annual golf outing. Thanks, Roland.”

“I just want you to know you did the right thing. I don’t like that Mr. Bondi.”

“I don’t either.” I smirked. “Come on, Wes. It looks like we’re paying a visit to my childhood home.” I sighed.

The car drove up the long, winding driveway and pulled up in front of the Young Mansion.

“How do you know when your father is going to be home?” Wes asked.

“He’ll be here in a couple of hours. He and Matthew will walk through the door, laughing like they always do, and then they’ll go into the living room for a drink until Clarissa tells them dinner is ready.”

“And what about your stepmother?”

“Nina is most likely at the spa, like always when there’s a golf outing.”

We walked up the paved steps that led to the front door. I placed my hand on the handle and took a deep, cleansing breath. I opened the door, and we entered the large marbled space with the oversized Persian rug Nina had bought when they were on vacation in Peru. I always hated that rug.

“Oh my gosh! Anna.” Clarissa smiled as she emerged from the kitchen, holding out her arms.

“Hi, Clarissa. It’s good to see you.”

“Oh my. I’ve missed you.” She placed her hands on each side of my face.

“Clarissa, this is Wes Carter. Wes, this is Clarissa. She’s been with us since I was a child.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Carter.”

“And you as well, Clarissa.”

“Anna, does your father know you’re here?” she asked with a concerned voice.

“No, and I don’t want him to. I want to see the look on his face when he sees me. Where’s the step-monster?”

“Mrs. Young is at the spa. She’ll be joining your father and Mr. Bondi for dinner.”

“Told you.” I smiled at Wes.

“Anna,” she took hold of my hand, “your father is very angry.”

“I know he is, and he’s about to get a whole lot angrier.”

“Oh, dear lord.” She made the sign of the cross. “Can I get the two of you anything?”

“No. We’ll just help ourselves to the bar.”

“Very well. If you need anything, just ask.”

I led Wes into the living room and walked over to the bar.

“Neat martini?” I asked him. “We’re going to need it.”

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