Page 16 of Billionaire Romantic
“It’s a sinking ship. I’m offering you a lifeline.”
Actually, that’s not a lifeline at all. It’s a one-way ticket to rock bottom. And I’m not prepared to give in that easily. “You must see some of Ashton Holdings’ potential too, Mr. Maddox, if you’re prepared to purchase it, holes and all.”
There’s a pause, and when he continues I get the feeling he admires my fighting spirit. He may not realize I’m fighting because I’m about to be destitute. Or maybe he does. “I’ll have to talk to my CFO. He’s been very firm about the fifteen million dollar offer. But he may be—if we’re lucky—negotiable. How about you come in on Monday morning and we can discuss it.”
Just the thought makes my heart feel like it’s about to pump its way out of my chest. Two or possibly all three pit bulls versus little old me. But surely they expected a little bit of back and forth. They’ve come in with a low offer and no doubt they’re expecting me to counter it. It’s not like they can’taffordto put a measly five million more into the pot. The Maddox brothers are famously worth multiple billions each. “That would be fine,” I say stiffly. “But please be aware that yours isn’t the only offer on the table.”
“Ah, so Abundance already offered.”
He knows about that?“Yes.” I can only hope he doesn’t know they only offered ten million. An offer I wouldn’t even consider.
“I’m afraid I’m tied up all day today or I’d move the meeting forward. Ms. Ashton, are you able to confirm that you’ll hold off on accepting Abundance’s offer until after you’ve met with myself and my CFO on Monday?”
Is this a trick?If I say yes, will I be admitting Abundance made a much lower offer? Anyway, the damage might already be done but I have no choice but to forge ahead. “Yes, I can do that. I’m still in discussions with Abundance’s CEO,” I bluff.
I can’t tell if I can hear amusement in his voice or if I’m imagining it. “Great. I’m confident we can come up with a number you’re happy with, Ms. Ashton.Ifwe can talk my CFO into it, that is.Iwas prepared to offer more, but he won’t budge. He’s stubborn as all hell. You and I have our work cut out for us.” Is this some kind of scare tactic? At this point I’m dreading meeting with his evil CFO. “How’s ten o’clock on Monday?”
“That’s fine.”
“Do you need the address?”
“No. I know where you are.” Everyone knows where they are. They’re the most sought-after company to work for in New York City and are written up at least once a week with glowing testimonials about how great it is to be a part of their young, hip, talented team.
“Perfect. See you then, Ms. Ashton. Enjoy your weekend.”
The line goes dead before I can even say, “You too.”Jerk.
8
After another gruelingday at work, by the time I get home it’s after six.
I open the door of my apartment and find a bottle of champagne on ice sitting on the kitchen island. As soon as Grace hears the door slam closed, she bounds out of her room. She’s wearing a pink dress that hugs every curve, light make-up and her hair hangs long and wavy over her shoulders.
“Wow,” I say. “You scrub up really well, roomie. You look gorgeous.”
“Getting ready for my hot date. Ethan’s taking me out to dinner at Via Carota.”
“Oh, I’ve heard such good things about that place.”
“Me too.”
“What’s the champagne for?” I shrug off my coat. “Are we celebrating that you’re about to get wined, dined and laid again?”
“Yes. But we’re also celebrating because so are you.” She pops the champagne and pours two glasses, handing me one.
I take a sip. “Are you going to tell me what you’re talking about or do I have to guess?”
She brings up something on her phone and hands it to me. “A ninety-eight point two percent match, girlfriend. I’ve never heard of one being that high before.”
“Match?” It’s starting to dawn on me.
“Feast your eyes on Noah Steel.”
“NoahSteel?” I laugh. “You’re joking.”
“It’s probably not his real name, just like Lucky Irish isn’t your real name. But who cares?Lookat him.”
Still laughing, I glance at the photo on the screen.
