Page 224 of The First Time

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"Done."

"What?"

"We'll offer your sister a scholarship. A hundred percent of her tuition anywhere."

What? I… I must be hearing things. "You…"

"I can make it official right now."

"No, that's okay…" A hundred percent of her tuition. Covered. "What if I say no?"

"You won't." His hand brushes mine. It sends heat racing through my body. "Is there anything else?"

No. That's all I want. It's all I've wanted— Lizzy taken care of.

But I can't admit that. Not when I can get more.

"I… I want to go to college too."

Blake nods. "You'll sign a prenup. When we divorce, you'll get a million dollars, less what's left on your mortgage."

"A million dollars?" I… Uh…

"Kat. You okay?"

No. This… this is absurd. I stare back at Blake. "A million dollars?"

He nods.

"But… why?"

"I told you. I need someone and I want you."

But… uh…

I take a deep breath and exhale slowly.

Blake is worth a lot. A million dollars is nothing to him. Not compared to the price tag of a regular divorce.

This is what makes sense for him.

It's logical.

It's actually reasonable.

His fingers brush my wrist. "You can stay at your place for now, but I'll need you to move in soon."

"No. I'm staying with my sister."

"Fine. You'll stay with her until we marry."

I nod. I'd rather stay with Lizzy forever, but it wouldn't look right.

"I'll pay your expenses. Starting tonight."

"That isn't necessary."

"Kat. You're my girlfriend now. We're madly in love. Do you really think I'd force my girlfriend to fend for herself?"

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