Page 25 of A Billionaire's Secret

“But I don’t want to. I don’t have your drive. I’m so done with all this. I hate myself for always quitting, but I can’t endure one more day in this situation.” She elaborated.

“What situation? Everything is OK, Diana. You don’t have to race if you don’t want to. Take some time off and ride for fun.” I pleaded.

“Ugh, nothing is OK! Nothing!” Diana yelled out and stuffed the last items in her duffle bag. “You don’t know what I’ve done—” she spewed through tears and walked toward the door.

I stood frozen. My suspicions about the Kentucky Stakes resurfaced with Diana’s last words, and I felt a suffocating invisible hand tighten around my throat. But then again, that could have meant anything. I elected not to draw conclusions yet.

I quickly packed my stuff and hurried outside to search for my family. On the way to the car, I saw Christian, his arm around Diana’s shoulders, walking slowly in silence. He turned his head toward me, and I could see the pain in his eyes.

I wished this victory felt better. But all I could think about was the turmoil in Christian’s life.

***

“Hey, beautiful,” Christian’s deep voice vibrated through the phone. “Congratulations!”

“Thank you,” I answered flatly. “How is Diana? She was very distraught.”

“She’ll get over it,” he said. “She decided she’s done with this sport. It was a matter of time.”

“So, what now?” I held my breath in anticipation of his answer.

“She’s decided to return to Nashville,” he confirmed my fears. “I’ll take her tomorrow.”

“And what about you?” I swallowed.

“I’m not going anywhere if that’s what you’re asking.” He joked.

“Yes, that’s what I’m asking,” I confessed, exhaling a sigh of relief. “I’m so sorry about Diana.”

“Why would you be sorry? You deserved that win more than anyone else.” He sounded confused.

“I don’t know, I feel like we just started getting along.” I elaborated. “I feel for her and what she’s going through.”

“She told me about you,” Christian’s voice softened. “How you were a big help to her and how she admires you.”

Tears pooled in my eyes, and I remained silent, trying to conceal my shaky voice.

“Listen,” I decided to change the subject. “I know what you did.”

“What did I do,” he asked with urgency.

“You paid my debts off,” I explained. “And while I appreciate it, I don’t accept it.”

“Oh, that?” He exhaled. “Please don’t mention it. I’ve forgotten all about it.”

“Absolutely not!” I insisted. “My ego is bruised, and I can’t function like that. I will pay you back every penny.”

“Well, if your ego is bruised. We can’t have that,” he smiled. “But I can think of other ways to soothe the pain.”

“I’m sure you can,” I smiled.

“Clear your schedule for next week, please,” Christian ordered nonchalantly.

“Why?” I asked, confused.

“It’s a surprise.” He declared. “I’ll take Diana back home, and I’ll call you as soon as I’m back, deal?”

“Deal.” I agreed, and we hung up.

---