Page 123 of My Big, Fat, Fake Billionaire Wedding

My stomach tightens. How does he know about that?

“Business is always complex at Gideon’s level,” I respond, deliberately casual. “But he thrives on challenges.”

“Indeed. And what about you, Mrs. King? Do you thrive on challenges? Or perhaps... arrangements?”

The word hits like a slap. I resist the urge to look around for Gideon, instead meeting Blackwell’s gaze directly.

“I’m sorry, I don’t follow.”

“No?” His smile widens, shark-like. “A talented art student suddenly marries one of New York’s wealthiest men, just as he needs to secure a complicated trust arrangement. Quite the whirlwind romance.”

I take another sip of champagne, using the moment to gather my thoughts. “Love often takes us by surprise, Mr. Blackwell. Though I wouldn’t expect someone like you to understand that.”

His eyebrows rise slightly. “Someone like me?”

“Someone who views people as assets or liabilities. Nothing more.” I’m surprised by my own boldness, but continue. “Tell me, how are the old Hartman warehouses working out for you?”

Now it’s his turn to look startled. Score one for the art student. “You know about that deal?”

I shrug. “Creative hubs are a passion of mine. I did suggest a similar approach for Riverside, after all.” I pause, letting curiosity edge into my voice. “Though I’m curious why you’d invest in a concept someone else pioneered. Lacking original ideas?”

His eyes narrow. “Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, Mrs. King. Besides, location is everything in real estate. The Hartman warehouses are positioned perfectly for what’s coming to that neighborhood.”

Bingo.“And what exactly is coming to that neighborhood?”

“Let’s just say the area will see significant appreciation once certain development plans are announced.” He leans closer, lowering his voice. “Plans your husband might have secured himself, had he been paying attention to business rather than playing house.”

I feel my cheeks burning but maintain eye contact. “Funny, I was about to say the same about your understanding of the creative community. Those warehouses require a specific approach to attract the right tenants. Something tells me you’ve missed several key elements in your rush to copy Gideon’s project.”

Uncertainty flickers across his face before he can mask it. “Confident for someone so new to this world.”

“I know art. I know artists. And I know they won’t be attracted to sterile corporate environments masquerading as creative spaces.” I take another sip of champagne. “But please, continue. I’d love to hear more about these development plans.”

Blackwell studies me for a long moment. “You’re not what I expected, Mrs. King.”

“I get that a lot,” I reply, just as I spot Gideon making his way toward us through the crowd. His expression darkens as he recognizes who I’m talking to.

Blackwell follows my gaze. “Your husband appears concerned. Afraid I might reveal something uncomfortable?”

“More likely he’s wondering why you’re wasting my time with transparent intimidation tactics.” I smile sweetly. “But don’t worry, I found our conversation quite informative.”

Gideon reaches us, his hand immediately finding the small of my back in a possessive gesture. “Blackwell,” he says, his voice glacial.

“King. Just getting acquainted with your charming wife.” Blackwell’s gaze flicks between us. “She’s quite the advocate for your projects.”

“Of course she is,” Gideon replies, his eyes never leaving Blackwell’s face. “She designed half of Riverside’s concept.”

The genuine pride in his voice catches me off guard.

Blackwell’s smile tightens. “Talented and beautiful. You’re a fortunate man.” He nods to me. “Mrs. King, a pleasure. I look forward to seeing more of your... contributions to the industry.”

As he walks away, I release the breath I didn’t realize I was holding.

“You okay?” Gideon asks quietly, his eyes scanning my face with concern that feels anything but transactional.

“Fine. Just need some air.” The room suddenly feels stifling.

Outside on the terrace, the cool evening air helps calm my racing heart. Gideon stands beside me, our shoulders almost touching.

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