Page 58 of Don't Fall for the Billionaire
“I’m here to pick up the homework for Eloise Cross. She’s ill today.”
“Oh yes. You called earlier. I’ll run down to her classroom and get it. Give me a few minutes.”
I stood there awkwardly while the silence between Kitty and me filled the office. Looking at the counter, I noticed a flyer, so I picked it up. It was for a talent show in a month, open to students and anyone who wanted to participate with them. The winner of the talent show would receive a cash prize of $1,000 and a trophy.
“My daughter wins that talent show every year for her piano playing,” Kitty said. “Just like I win the bake off every year for my cheesecake.”
Not this year, bitch.
“Wow. It seems like you have a very talented family.” I smiled.
“Actually, I do.” Her brow arched. “Has your employer spoken to you?”
“He speaks to me every day.”
“I had a conversation with him, and he was supposed to talk to you about how you spoke to me. I know it’s hard for some people to admit when they’re in the wrong.”
I forced a smile. The kind that showed just enough teeth to count as polite. After all, we were in the school’s office and the principal was sitting on the other side of the door.
“You’re right. It is hard to admit when I’m wrong. Luckily for me, that doesn’t happen very often.”
“Well, it takes a big person to apologize. Especially when their temper gets the better of them.” A smirk crossed her lips.
“Oh, absolutely. And I do want to apologize, Kitty. I shouldn’t have raised my voice and said the things I said. It was unprofessional,” I paused momentarily. “But not everyone can juggle appearances the way you do.” I smiled.
Before Kitty could speak, the office door opened, and the secretary handed me a folder.
“We hope Eloise feels better soon.”
“Thank you.” I smiled and turned to Kitty. “Again, I’m sorry for how I spoke. I’ll try to remember to choose my words more carefully next time.” I walked to the door, placed my hand on the handle, and turned. “Though, of course, sometimes the truth doesn’t need softening.”
I opened the door and walked out with a wide grin on my face.
“I’m sohappy you could make lunch.” Melissa hugged me before I slid into the booth.
“Me too. I miss you, cousin.”
“I miss you too. There’s something I need to tell you.”
“Okay. What is it?”
“Adam and I put an offer in on a house in Long Island, and the owners accepted.”
“Oh my gosh, that’s wonderful. I’m so happy for you.”
Wait. I had to pause for a moment. If she were moving to Long Island, what about my room?
“Thanks. I knew you would be. And don’t worry. There’s an extra room for you if you need it.”
Phew.
“I appreciate it.” I picked up the wine glass the waitress set down.
After we placed our food order, Melissa reached across the table and grabbed my hand.
“How are things really going with Ashton? You’re falling for him, aren’t you?”
“No,” my voice was shaky. “He’s my boss. That would be insane.”
