Page 79 of The Billionaire’s Fake Fiancée
"No," I shake my head. "I need to face this. I was never one to run and hide."
"You are one of the most courageous persons I know." His voice is serious enough to focus my attention, take my mind off the video. "You were determined to make it on your own steam. And look at you." He gestures to the space around us, "You've arrived."
Yeah. I gesture to the video. "When you have a sex video on YouTube, you really have arrived."
He chuckles at that, and a reluctant smile tugs at my lips.
"At least I haven't lost my sense of humor."
"You're strong. You'd have to be to come this far." Leaning close Eric takes my hand in his.
I don't pull away. It feels wrong to do so. Not when he's been so understanding and patient.
His eyes shine with kindness, and hope. Warm, brown eyes. Nothing like the silver-green ones that rob me of breath.
"Eric." My reluctance gets through to him.
"So, no? I don't stand a chance, do I?"
Both of us look at the ring I'm still wearing.
Jace's ring.
Yeah, I can't bring myself to take it off.
I flush, can't trust myself to speak. If only I could love Eric, things would be so simple. Instead, I've lost my heart to a man with whom I don't have a future. One I'd left stranded in the worst way possible.
"I'm sorry."
Placing his hands on my shoulders, he kisses my forehead. "Don't be," he says. "Friends?"
I nod, hug him back.
He steps away from the desk, "Go now. Or you'll be late."
Picking up my bag once more, I walk to the door.
"I'll email YouTube and get the video removed." His voice follows me.
"Thanks, Eric."
His thoughtfulness only makes me feel worse. Why can't I fall in love with Eric? He'll be safe, secure.
Boring.
I can never resist bad boys. And Jace is as macho as they come. Besides, the chemistry with Jace ... I'll never have that with anyone else. Tears prick my eyes and I blink them away.
Turning, I leave, slamming the door behind me. Reaching the parking garage, I slide into the driver's seat. But I'm unable to start the car.
I'm not ready yet to face the world, not like this. Banging my fists on the steering wheel, I finally give vent to my anger.
40
Jace
* * *
Jace looks up from the last row of the conference room in the less fashionable part of Silicon Valley. The space is packed with hopefuls eager to make their pitch. A chance to get funding for their dream project is why so many are locked in this basement room that smells of coffee and take-out pizza. While a Frenchman in a sharp suit speaks from the makeshift platform.
