Page 29 of Billionaire Boss's Bold Proposal

“Bella, do you have a moment?” I asked.

She entered the room. Curiosity was evident in her eyes. “Sure, Roger. What’s on your mind?”

I knew she wanted me to discuss Mandy with her. That’s why she seemed eager to know what I wanted to discuss. She’ll be surprised.

“I’ve been thinking about something lately. We’re lucky to have incredible people like Stefan in our lives.” I said casually, watching for any reaction.

Bella nodded, a hint of admiration in her expression. “Yeah, he’s terrific. I don’t know what we’d do without him. He’s always been there for us.”

I frowned. My sister looked whipped. She wasn’t always around, but I could tell she was smitten with Stefan. Could it be that they’ve been keeping tabs on each other?

How’s he always been there for you? The question was at the tip of my tongue to ask, but I restrained myself and stayed on course.

I smiled, trying to keep my tone casual. “That’s true. And you and Stefan seem to have such a great connection. I’ve noticed how well you get along. You effortlessly laugh when you’re together. It’s like you have this natural bond.”

Bella’s cheeks flushed slightly, but she remained composed. “Well, I guess we have a good friendship. Stefan’s someone I can rely on. He’s nice whenever I’m around, unlike you.”

Leaning back, I tried to make my words seem like simple observations. “I’m not mean to you, Bella, just a bit strict. Stefan gives you more free rein because he likes you.”

Bella furrowed her brows. “What do you mean?”

I shrugged. “I’m just saying people as close as you and Stefan sometimes discover a deeper connection between them. It’s almost as if they’re meant to be more than friends.”

Bella’s gaze lingered on me, a mix of surprise and intrigue in her eyes. “Do you think... Do you think that could be the case with us?”

I let out a small chuckle, trying to ease any pressure. “I can’t say for sure, Bella. I’ve noticed how happy you are when you’re around him. He lights up when you’re near. It’s something worth considering, don’t you think?”

Lost in thought, she sighed. “I never really thought about it that way. Our friendship is important, but maybe there’s potential for something more.”

I nodded, glad that my subtle suggestion had struck a chord with Bella. “Exactly. Take your time, Bella. Explore your feelings; it could be wonderful if something more develops naturally.”

Bella’s eyes softened as she met my gaze. “Thanks, Roger. I appreciate your perspective. I’ll think about it.”

I smiled, knowing that I’d nudged Bella in the right direction. “Of course, Bella. You’re my sister, and I want you to be happy. I’ll support you no matter what you decide.”

As she stood up, she suddenly stared at me suspiciously. “Why are you being so nice to me?” Bella asked.

Ugh! She had to bring it up?

I shrugged, “I’m always nice to you, Bella. You don’t seem to notice.”

Bella’s eyes glinted with mischief as she stared at me. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips. “Does this have anything to do with the fact that you don’t want me to know Mandy was here? You probably pissed her off again. She’s the one who wrote that on your mirror.”

I heaved a sigh of relief. I was glad she was talking about Mandy and not that Stefan had asked me to be his wingman. “That’s none of your business, Bella.”

She squealed, jumping in excitement. “I knew it! You like her.”

I frowned. “Don’t speculate.”

“Why are you both stubborn? You won’t admit you like her. She won’t accept her feelings for you either,” Bella mused.

My ears perked up at the mention of Mandy’s feelings for me. “Do you think she likes me?”

Bella smirked—a wicked grin on her lips. “I don’t know. It’s not my business, isn’t that what you said?”

Frustrated, I admitted. “Fine, Bella, you’ve made your point. I like her but don’t know what that means for us. I’m not sure that I can be in a serious relationship.”

“What makes you think she wants something serious?” Bella asked.

---