Page 123 of The Billionaire Is Back

“You can’t mean that.” Even with everything going on, it is strangely satisfying turning Lynch’s face of stone to one of surprise.

“Let’s say that I do. I would still be the major shareholder. But let’s say that I want to put you in charge as CEO instead. Say that were true—would you accept the position and lead our merged companies?”

“Let’s say that I would. I would want to know what game you’re playing before I agree to anything. I won’t be anyone’s puppet.”

“There’s no game. It would be your job to manage the company, not mine.” It feels strange to admit this to Lynch, but I need him to know I’m serious. “I love Claire. I want to be with her. This is the only thing that’s standing in the way of that.”

Lynch nods and places his hands on the desk, considering.

“If you agree, I will sign this contract to merge the companies and then step down as CEO. I have no doubt you will be approved as my replacement right away. Particularly because I will be the largest shareholder. Please, Lynch.”

He looks up, giving me a lopsided grin. “Even when you’re begging it’s disgustingly charming.”

I match his grin with the original, the vintage, some would say the Pappy Van Winkle of disarming billionaire grins. “We all have our burdens to bear.”

“And I guess now mine is figuring out how to lead a company twice as large as Relicteros was.”

I feel the weight on my chest lifting. “Where is Miss Lovejoy? I didn’t see her by your side at the last meeting either.”

Lynch’s scowl returns. “What is this—Sex and the City? Do you want a CEO or a bestie? That’s none of your business.”

“Fair enough. One more thing, though. I have a demand to go along with my…surprise.” I smile as I picture Claire’s smile.

Soon, baby. Soon.

“What is it?”

“Alice Strout. She’s an outstanding executive assistant. I don’t think she’ll want to go with me where I’m going, so I need you to offer her a place here if she wants it.”

“Done.”

I sign the document.

And now it’s time to leave my empire.

I rise and walk toward him, and he does the same.

We tug at the cuffs of our shirt sleeves, button up our suit jackets at the same time, as if this was all choreographed.

I’m the first to extend my hand. “I have complete faith inyou. You’ll figure it out.”

“I will. I have complete faith in myself too. It’s about time you got on board.” There is no irony in his delivery.

I laugh as we shake hands. “Can you handle things from here? I have to go.”

Lynch nods. “I’ve got it. They’ll have a lot of questions. It’ll be a little messy. But I’ll make sure this train keeps moving.”

“Thank you,” I say. And I mean it. It does feel good to have Lynch on my side for once.

“You’re welcome. Now get out of my building.”

I give him a curt nod, and he slaps a big manicured hand on my shoulder.

I leave the room and find everyone waiting anxiously. “Ladies and gentlemen, please go back inside. Mr. Lynch has an announcement to make.” I gently place a hand on Alice’s arm before she can make her way back inside.

She scans my face like she’s trying to speed-read an email. “What the hell happened in there?” she whispers.

I explain as quickly as I can about my change of heart, expecting Alice to tell me that I’m crazy, to take some time to cool off before making any rash decisions. Instead, she turns the table on this conversation and surprises the hell out of me.

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