Page 11 of Once Upon a Royal Billionaire

“So does this mean we can attend the Princes Gala again?”

Rhett frowned. “You were never barred from the gala.”

Carlson rose both eyebrows in Emily’s direction.

“Oh.”

“Yeah, Emily wouldn’t let us go.”

Emily stepped away. “So, why don’t you guys have any girls with you? I’m almost drowning in testosterone. ”

Brooks, one of the most eligible men in the world and their friend, scooted over and waved. “You’re enough woman for all of us. Come on, let’s catch up.”

She couldn’t help it, her eyes went to Rhett. He was watching, but she forced herself to act casual. She needed to get all these guys on board with Mountain Blue. And Brooks didn’t just have dark, thick hair and striking blue eyes, he also had a sharp intellect and owned more businesses than any of them. She sat next to him, and he smiled his signature grin. “So how’s the incredibly talented Emily?” He seeped sincerity. Even though it might sound a bit over the top, he was the kind of guy who meant what he said, and because of that, his compliments always warmed down to her toes.

“Heh. Not sure howshe’sdoing, but I’m doing well.”

“Did I hear Lily is ten now?”

Touched that he even knew her daughter’s name, she bumped him with her shoulder. “Yes, and currently being spoiled by my father.”

“I’m glad you could come, Em. Things are…better when you’re around.” His gaze flashed to Rhett.

“I’m here on business too.”

His eyebrows rose in interest.

“Yes, I have an investment opportunity. I’m giving the Prince Society first dibs.”

Brooks leaned forward. “I’m interested and might be the most solvent of anyone right now. I could jump in tomorrow.”

Emily forced herself not to jump all over that opportunity. “You’re in. I’m calling a meeting in the next few days to tell everyone about it. I’ll save you second pick.”

“Uh, second?” His eyebrow rose.

She glanced at Rhett, who was still watching.

“Ah, say no more.” He leaned away.

“No, it’s not like that.”

“Like what? You two are simmering with tension—the good kind.”

Her face heated, and it spread to her toes. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Then how come we’re getting Rhett’s death stare?”

“I’m not looking over there again.”

“Well, you know the look. And I’m getting it.”

She laughed because she didn’t know what else to do. “Well, whatever that is has nothing to do with me.”

His gaze turned speculative. “More than one of us here would love to talk more with you. Explore things.” He rested his arm behind her back. “But we’ve all felt like you’re untouchable.”

She swallowed, unsure where she wanted this to go with Brooks, or any of the others.

“You don’t have to answer now. Just think about it. Is the awesome Em available?” He searched her face, his eyes full of his signature sincerity. “I’d like to be the first to know about that, too.”

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