Page 23 of Don't Fall for the Billionaire
“Her mother is ill, so she moved back to England to take care of her.”
“Was she nice? Was she pretty? How old was she?” I wanted to know every detail about her.
“She was—how do I put this? She was nice enough, I guess. Eloise wasn't that fond of her, so they got into it a lot. Ashton always took Maura's side when it came to Eloise. She was forty-five and reasonably attractive.”
“I can tell you're trying to be nice, Dominic. But I need the real tea on that woman.”
“Fine, Charlotte. She wasn't attractive at all. She could be insulting when she wanted to be, and I never trusted her.”
“Why?” My brows furrowed.
“She treated Eloise like a task instead of a child. She was stern, and Eloise was defiant. She knew exactly how to push that woman's buttons.”
“And Ashton was okay with how she treated Eloise?”
“He never really said much. But then again, he wasn't around. Mr. Cross likes his social life.”
“I bet he does.” I rolled my eyes.
“Please, don't mention any of this to Ashton,” he said. “He goes off the rails if he knows people are talking about his personal life.”
“You have my word, Dominic.” I smiled.
Chapter Ten
Ashton
After my meeting, I met Charlie for lunch at il Buco.
“Good afternoon, Mr. Cross. Your friend is already here. Follow me.” The cute hostess smiled.
She led me outside to their patio and over to the table where Charlie sat.
“It's about time.” He glanced at his watch.
“I'm ten minutes late.” I removed my suitcoat and hung it over the back of the chair.
“How did the meeting with Price go?” he asked.
“It went well. He's selling us the property.”
“Excellent.” He grinned. “I took the liberty of ordering you a scotch. It should be here any minute.”
“Thanks.” I opened the menu.
The server walked over and set our drinks down.
“Are you ready to order?” she asked.
“I'll have the Pomodoro,” I said, shutting my menu.
“I'll have the same.” Charlie smiled.
“Excellent. It should be up shortly.” She walked away.
“So, how's it going with the new hot nanny?” A smirk crossed Charlie's lips. “Did you fuck her yet?”
“Come on, Charlie.” I sighed. “No, I didn't, and I won't. Eloise really seems to like Charlotte.”
