Page 222 of Forbidden Billionaires: Vol. 1
My dad didn't seem at all consoled by James' speech. "And what now? You just quit your job. You're divorced. You probably have alimony to pay. And you're dating a college student. What kind of future could you possibly have? You're just going to drag her down with you."
James eyebrows lowered slightly. "I'm starting a tech company."
"A tech company?" my dad laughed. "And where are you going to get the startup money for such a venture? I was wrong about you. You're not an adult. You're just as immature as any college student."
"Dad!" My father was a nice person. I had never heard him make snap judgments about anyone in my life. What was he doing?
"He's probably here to ask us for money," my dad huffed.
More anger was brewing behind James' eyes. "I have the necessary funds to start the company," he said calmly.
The house phone started ringing. When no one answered, it automatically switched onto the voicemail recorder.
"Hi, I'm trying to reach Penny Taylor or the parents of Penny Taylor. This is Ellen Fitzgerald with..."
I immediately stood up.Shit!Why now?
James grabbed my arm. "Penny, don't. It could be the media."
"It's not." Before I could walk over to the phone, my dad picked it up.
Crap!
"Hello, Ellen. This is Penny's father speaking."
"Who is it?" James whispered to me.
"She works for the First State scholarship committee." There was only one reason for her to be calling. I was going to lose my scholarship. My dad was already upset. This was going to make it so much worse.
"Allegations?" my father said. "There are no allegations..." he went silent and looked over at James and me. "The Delaware Post? I don't even know what you're referring to."
Silence.
"Penny has successfully maintained the 3.5 average."
Silence.
"I don't see how this is a behavioral issue. Her professor clearly..."
Silence.
"Ellen, I really don't see why..."
Silence
"How dare you insult my daughter?!"
Silence.
"You'll be hearing from my lawyer." My dad slammed down the phone. His face was visibly red.
"Peter?" my mom said. "Peter, take a deep breath."
"Get out of my house!" my dad yelled at James.
James quickly stood up. "Mr. Taylor, I don't know what you just heard on the phone, but..."
"There's an article in the Delaware Post about this mess? Why didn't you two start with that?!"
