Page 49 of My Billionaire Casino Boss

The next few days are a whirlwind of activity. Lily is a force of nature, organizing and arranging, turning my sterile bachelor pad into something that feels like a home. I watch her as she moves around the house, her brow furrowed in concentration as she decides where to put her books, her clothes, and the little knick-knacks that she’s collected over the years.

I’ve owned this house for years, but it’s never felt like this before. It’s always been just a place to sleep, to eat, to change clothes. But now, with Lily here, it feels warm. It feels lived in. It feels like home.

I watch as she carefully arranges a set of framed photos on the mantle. Photos of her family, of her friends, of us. She steps back, studying her work, then turns to me with a smile.

“What do you think?” she asks, gesturing to the photos.

I walk over to her, wrapping my arms around her waist from behind. “I think it’s perfect,” I say, pressing a kiss to her temple.

She leans back against me, her hands coming up to rest on my arms. “It’s starting to feel like home,” she says softly.

I tighten my hold on her, resting my chin on her shoulder. “It is home, Lily,” I say. “For as long as you want it to be. Forever, if you want.”

I stand there, holding her in my arms, and I see that this is all I’ve ever wanted. A home, a life, with Lily. I’m determined to do whatever it takes to make sure I don’t lose it.

We invite Eric over for dinner—I’ve been practicing my cooking skills, and I’m eager to show off. Lily helps me in the kitchen, her laughter filling the house as I fumble with the recipe.

When Eric arrives, he looks around the house, taking in the changes. “You’ve been busy,” he comments, his gaze landing on Lily. “You managed to domesticate this caveman already?”

She shrugs with a sheepish grin. “He’s a very gracious host.”

We sit down to eat, and the conversation flows easily. We talk about work, about friends, about everything and nothing. Lily is starting her design job at the casino tomorrow, and I know she’s nervous. There’s an unspoken question hanging in the air, a question that Eric finally voices as we’re clearing the dishes.

“So, are you staying here, Lil?” he asks, his gaze flicking between Lily and me. “Like long-term?”

Lily hesitates, her gaze meeting mine. I try to keep my expression neutral, not wanting to pressure her but hope surges in my chest.

“I…I’m not sure,” she says finally. “I mean, I like it here. And it’s convenient for work. But…”

“But?” Eric prompts, raising an eyebrow.

“But I don’t want to rush into anything,” she finishes, her gaze steady on mine.

I nod, understanding. “Take all the time you need,” I say, reaching out to squeeze her hand. “There’s no rush to decide.”

She smiles at me, a soft, genuine smile that makes my heart skip a beat. “I’m thinking about it. I’m seriously thinking about it.”

twenty-eight

A Risk Worth Taking - Lily

BeforeIknowit,I’ve settled into a comfortable routine with Thomas. Waking up in his arms makes me almost delirious with joy. His house has become a sanctuary, a place I find myself thinking of ashomemore often than not.

I meet my mother for lunch at our favorite café. As we sip our coffees and share a slice of pie, I tell her about everything that’s happened. I tell her about the job, about Thomas’s apology, about the way he’s been trying to make things right.

She listens quietly, her eyes filled with understanding. When I finish, she reaches across the table, taking my hand in hers. “I had a feeling your story with Thomas wasn’t over,” she says, her voice soft. “You two have a connection, Lily. It’s been clear from the start.”

I blush, looking down at our joined hands. “I didn’t want to admit it,” I confess. “I was scared, Mom. Scared of getting hurt again.”

She squeezes my hand, offering me a comforting smile. “Love is always a risk, sweetheart. But it’s a risk worth taking.”

I nod, taking a deep breath. “I think I’m ready to take that risk,” I say, my voice barely above a whisper. “I’m happy, Mom. With Thomas, with my job, with my life here in Tahoe. I think…I think I’m going to stay.”

Her smile widens, her eyes sparkling with joy. “I’m so glad, Lily,” she says, her voice choked with emotion. “I’m so glad you’re happy.”

And it’s true. I am happy.

The morning of my first day back at the casino is a terrifying mix of eagerness and nerves. I stand in front of the mirror, smoothing down my new blouse. I take deep breaths to calm my racing heart. I’m not the same person I was a few weeks ago. I’m stronger now, more resilient, and I’m ready to face whatever comes my way.

---