Page 20 of Bad Boy Billionaire and the Single Mom

Lily leans in closer, her curiosity evident as she listens intently. Her presence emboldens me to delve deeper into my memories, to share the essence of Sarah.

“She was infectious with joy, you know?” I continue, my voice filled with nostalgia. “She brought out the best in me.”

“It sounds like you two really got on,” she replies. “It’s great that she could make you happy even if the situation was hard.”

“She was always like that. She saw the best in life. She was so positive about everything.”

A mixture of admiration and longing fills the air as I recount Sarah’s qualities. I feel a twinge of sadness, but also gratitude for the time we shared. Lily’s encouraging nod prompts me to reflect further, my words carrying the weight of emotions locked away within me. As I speak, Lily listens attentively, embracing my past without judgment or jealousy. Her genuine curiosity and sensitivity create a safe space where I can freely reminisce about the woman who once held my heart.

“She had a heart full of compassion,” I say. “She cared deeply for others, always finding ways to help and support those around her. She was fiercely independent and had this unwavering determination to chase her dreams,” I continued, my voice growing softer. “Kind of like you, Lily.”

Lily looks at me with a smile and I can see that she appreciates my words.

Her voice breaks the silence, her eyes shimmering with empathy. “Tell me more, Blake,” she says softly, her words urging me to open up, to share more of my memories.

And so, I oblige, pouring out stories of Sarah’s love for art, her vibrant spirit, and the adventures we embarked on together. I describe the way her eyes sparkled with excitement, the warmth of her embrace, and the way she made me feel alive. Telling Lily about Sarah is liberating, as if I’m unburdening a part of myself that I’ve held onto for too long. With each word spoken, a sense of closure and gratitude settles within me, allowing me to fully embrace the present and the potential of what lies ahead.

“You and Ethan must miss her so much,” Lily says sympathetically, glancing toward my son.

He and Emma are drawing all over the floor with giant chalks. Ethan is lying down as Emma traces his outline with bright red. Once she’s finished, he jumps up to look at her handwork and laughs. It’s amazing how those two manage to get on without Ethan uttering a single word.

“Every day,” I admit. “I wish we could talk about it, but Ethan’s not said a single thing since it’s happened.”

“He will,” she tells me hopefully. She watches him with an adoring gaze. “I have a feeling that he will get through this. He’s a strong little boy. I have faith.”

“He is, isn’t he?” I agree. I’m probably biased about it. But he’s been through so much and I feel like Lily is right. Ethan is strong, just like Sarah was. He reminds me of her every day.

In Lily’s presence, I find solace and acceptance. She understands that sharing these memories doesn’t diminish the connection we have now. It only deepens our understanding of each other and the journeys we’ve taken to arrive at this moment.

And as I recount the tales of Sarah, a sense of peace washes over me. Lily’s presence brings comfort, reminding me that although the past holds its place in my heart, it’s the present and future that hold the promise of love and happiness.

Chapter 13

Lily

Iwakeupgroggyand disoriented, a heavy weight settling over my body. The sound of my alarm clock echoes through the room, but I can’t summon the energy to reach out and silence it. Something feels off, a strange unease that lingers in the air. As I attempt to sit up, a wave of nausea washes over me, forcing me back onto the pillows.

Oh, God. I feel like I’m going to puke.

I take a few minutes to compose myself.

I can hear Emma playing in her room, already awake despite it being early still. Thank God for the baby gate or she would be bouncing on my bed right about now. I sometimes feel bad for still having it up since she’s not a baby anymore, but at times like this, I’m thankful.

Reluctantly, I grab my phone and find the number I’ve got saved for Tiffany. Out of all the girls at work, she’s the most understanding and has tried to make an effort to be polite to me. My heart is pounding with a mix of guilt and apprehension. As the call connects, I clear my throat, trying to sound as professional as possible despite the fatigue that weighs me down.

“Hi, this is Lily,” I say, my voice wavering slightly. “I’m feeling unwell today and won’t be able to come into work. I apologize for the short notice.”

I’ve only been there for little over a month, and I still haven’t had the chance to build a strong rapport with my workers yet. I don’t want to let them down, especially when they are still warming up to me. But I haven’t got a choice. I feel awful. I hope they don’t take it too badly.

There’s a brief pause on the other end of the line. I’m not sure what to expect.

“Oh, Lily, I’m sorry to hear that,” Tiffany says. “We’ll manage without you today. Just take care of yourself and get some rest. Is there anything you needed to tell us for today?”

I feel bad but I take a deep breath, reminding myself that taking care of my health is essential. I can’t pour from an empty cup.

“No, there’s nothing in the diary,” I recall. “But if you guys need anything then please don’t hesitate to call me, okay? My phone’s on loud.”

“Sure thing, Lily. I’ll let the girls know.”

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