Page 13 of Burning for the Billionaire 7

Chapter 7

Grace

After my hesitant knockon Dad’s library door, I hear the murmured, “Come in.”

Taking a deep breath, I enter. I’ve decided to make things right with Dad, as Rowan suggested. There’s a twinge of hurt in my heart when I think about him.

I felt awful earlier, hearing his frustration and knowing I added to it. He doesn’t have to tell meeverything,but when I see him looking so troubled, I can’t help but ask.

I should have kept my mouth shut.

Sighing, I put my relationship issue aside to deal with the family ones. “Hi, Dad.”

He plucks his reading glasses off his nose and puts his book down. “Hi, Grace.”

“Reading about medical stuff?” I ask with a smile.

He chuckles. “As always.”

“I’m sorry to bother you.”

“You’re no bother. Have a seat.” He gestures to the recliner beside his desk.

Sitting, I tuck my legs under me and look around at the shelves lined with books, the many awards he’s achieved adorning the walls. As kids, Isabelle and I avoided Dad’s inner sanctum, not wanting to interrupt whatever he did in here.

Mom always gave specific instructions to stay away, and we assumed it was at his request. Now, I just think Mom was being an ass, and Dad wouldn’t have minded us coming around. The woman has major issues.

“Why aren’t you with the others?”

“Well, for one, I’m over Isabelle yelling at everyone, and I wanted to talk with you.” Twisting my hands in my lap, I struggle with how to begin. I’m not used to having heart-to-hearts with my stringent father.

“What do you want to discuss?”

“The distance between us has been getting to me.”

Dad sits back in his chair and blows out a long breath.

“I know you don’t like to talk about the emotional stuff, but I live far away now and you’re getting older. I don’t want to have any regrets in case I leave here and, God forbid, never get to see you again.”

His gaze moves over my face, but he says nothing.

“Look, Dad, I won’t apologize for choosing to go to school for something you hate the idea of. I made my choice and I’m happy. I’m just sorry you resent me for it.”

“Grace, I don’t resent you.” He pinches the bridge of his nose. “I was being foolish, thinking I could get you to see reason with tough love.”

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