Page 49 of His Cruel Billionaire Scorecard

“Roman, it’s been quite a while since I saw you grace these halls,” Marabella greeted him, her tone a mix of fondness and authority. “And who is this young lady you’ve brought with you?”

Roman smiled proudly, his arm wrapped around Olivia’s waist. “Marabella, meet Olivia. She’s my girlfriend,” he introduced, warmth in his voice.

Marabella’s eyes widened with surprise, but she quickly recovered, her lips forming a small smile. “Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you, Olivia,” she said, extending a hand in greeting. “I’ve known this troublemaker since he was knee-high, so I hope you’re prepared for his antics.”

Olivia laughed, shaking Marabella’s hand warmly. “It’s lovely to meet you too, Marabella. And don’t worry, I can handle him,” she replied playfully, earning a chuckle from Marabella.

Roman looked at Marabella with a glimmer of nostalgia in his eyes. “Marabella practically raised me,” he explained to Olivia. “She’s been with our family for years. She’s practically family herself.”

Marabella nodded, her expression softening as she looked at Roman. “I’ve watched this young man grow up, seen him through his best and worst days,” she admitted. “He may not always show it, but he’s a good soul.”

“Oh, you.”

Marabella waved off his gratitude, her strict demeanor softening for a moment. “No need for thanks, Roman. You know I’ll always look out for you, this way, the family’s seated already,” she replied.

***

They entered the dining room, which was adorned with elegant chandeliers and exquisite artwork, where his father, mother, and sister sat.

“Olivia, this is my father, Richard,” Roman introduced, gesturing toward a tall, stern-looking man with a neatly trimmed mustache. His stern gaze seemed to hold a certain level of authority, and Olivia couldn’t help but feel a pang of apprehension. Roman clutched her hand tighter.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Richard,” Olivia greeted, extending her hand with a soft smile.

His demeanor softened slightly as he shook her hand. “Likewise, Olivia. Roman has spoken highly of you.”

Roman then turned to his mother, who was all smiles. Her expression was soft and cheerful as she pulled Olivia in for a hug, surprising her.

“Please let her go, don’t scare off Olivia. Olivia, this is my mother Sloane. As you can see, she’s a hugger.” Roman introduced, beaming in a way Olivia had never seen before.

“It’s wonderful to finally meet you, Olivia,” Sloane said, embracing Olivia yet again in a gentle hug, making her feel instantly welcome.

“Okay, now you,” as Roman protested, she pulled him in for a hug, ignoring his discomfort.

“And here’s the castle imp, Lily.”

This was the Lily she heard about and was exactly as Olivia imagined her.

Roman’s younger sister had a contagious enthusiasm; Lily had an undeniable tomboyish charm.

“Hey, Olivia!” Lily exclaimed, her voice bubbling with excitement. “I’ve heard so much about you. Roman can’t stop talking about you. I’ll show you around whenever you want. You’re the only girl he’s brought around in a long time, you know?”

Olivia’s nerves began to dissipate as she found herself drawn to Lily’s infectious energy.

“Maybe we can talk about marriage.”

“Mom.” Roman scolded, and Lily laughed.

“What? Can’t blame a mother for dreaming.

Olivia found her voice to introduce herself, but Roman suddenly interjected, gripping her hand tightly. “Everyone, I have an important announcement to make,” he declared. Olivia’s heart skipped a beat, not expecting this sudden turn of events. She thought they were going to ease into dinner first, at least.

“I want to make it clear that Olivia is not just a date to me,” Roman continued, his eyes locked with Olivia’s. “She is my girlfriend. One I’m serious about. Who knows? I may propose to her and make her my wife.”

Gasps of surprise and excitement filled the room, except for Richard, Roman’s father, whose stoic expression remained unchanged.

Olivia’s mind raced, and she shut her gaping mouth, trying to process the weight of Roman’s words and the sudden intensity of the situation.

Sloane couldn’t contain her joy, clasping her hands together. “Oh, that’s wonderful news! Congratulations, both of you!” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight.

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