Page 31 of My Forbidden Billionaire

“Who’s gonna know? If you’re worried about it, just delete the emails,” Larisa says with a shrug.

“I … can’t. It’s the school’s emailing system, I don’t have that kind of access—to delete stuff, add stuff, create events, you know. That’s just for … whoever runs the email accounts—HR people, the Headmaster, I don’t know.”

“That’s so stupid. Why would they do something like that? That’s an invasion of privacy!” Emmy says.

“Not really … we work with children. I suppose that—if something bad happens—the person who does it can’t delete what they did.”

“Okay, so you can’t delete the email. So what? Who even pays attention to this stuff?”

“I suppose you’re right. I’m just a little paranoid, that’s all. Ms. Abadie has been watching me like a hawk—”

Knock. Knock.

I jump at the sound. “Did you guys order food for delivery?”

“No,” they say in unison.

I get up, hesitant to answer the door. I wasn’t expecting anyone, and it’s already dark outside.

I peek through the peephole and get a glimpse of one of the wildest, most astounding things I’ve ever seen.

I open the door wide, remaining rooted to the spot.

Along the hallway—from my front door to all the way down the stairs—is a row of men, dressed identically in black and red suits. If I didn’t know any better, I might think they’re from some organization like the CIA—or that I fell asleep on the couch and now I am dreaming.

“Miss Josephine Andrews?”

“Yes…” I say in a shaky voice.

“You have a special delivery from your secret admirer.” Each of the men is holding a single yellow orchid, which they proceed to hand me, one by one, forming a stunning bouquet, which spreads an intoxicating aroma around me.

I watch in astonishment as a second row of men, this time dressed in black and green suits, emerges from behind the first one, carrying large boxes of … something.

Have I hit my head or followed the white rabbit like Alice? Am I in Wonderland?

As if in a dream, all the men bow to me in unison, making my cheeks burn so hot that I’m actually a little dizzy. I thank each of them while I remain rooted to my spot, not knowing what else to say or express besides gratitude. My neighbor, from across the floor, is also now in the hallway—watching the proceedings with curiosity.

“Did you win the lottery?” she asks.

“Kind of…” I grin, thinking about my secret admirer.

“And you bought flowers with the money? You silly girl…”

She shakes her head and goes back into her apartment, slamming the door. I think about leaving some yellow orchids outside her apartment tomorrow morning.

Finally, the procession is over and the last man disappears down the stairs. When I close the door to my apartment, both my friends are staring at me with their mouths hanging open.

“What the heck was that?” Larisa exclaims.

“A special delivery from a secret admirer...” I reply, still in shock.

“What’s in the boxes?” Emmy muses.

“I don’t know, but let’s find out!” I reply, dying to know what’s in the boxes.

I pull one onto my lap and tear it open. It’s a gorgeous, black velvet box, wrapped in silk ribbons. The smell coming from inside makes my mouth water and I recognize it instantly. When I lift the velvet lid, a cloud of powdered sugar rises and envelops my face like a halo.

“Turkish Delight!” I squeal.

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