“Thanks, Mom.” I walk toward Leo who looks like he’s about to faint. “I’m afraid we have to keep this up.” Passing him my phone, he slowly takes it and frowns slightly. “Read the email. Please,” I whisper.
From:[email protected]
Subject: Congratulations
Dear Ria,
I hope you don’t mind me reaching out but I would like to congratulate you and your new husband.
My brother Jude sent me a photograph of him and his new wife last night at The Little White Chapel. They eloped as he couldn’t wait to make her his wife. Apparently he was hooked from the start, and honestly I’m happy she keeps him in his place. But I was shocked to see you in the background looking every bit the blushing bride. You looked remarkably happy and in love with your new husband. I was unaware that you were involved with anyone, but I’m so very happy that you have found your happily ever after.
Sending you and your new husband all the happiness and good fortune.
Looking forward to our meeting this week; maybe you could bring your new husband along. I’d love to congratulate you both in person.
Kind regards,
Cole West
CEO West Wing Hotels
“Oh, shit,” Leo mumbles.
“Yep, oh, shit.” Taking the phone back from Leo, I turn to Hunter, passing him the phone. His eyes widen as he reads the email. And then he wordlessly hands me my phone, blinking rapidly. “So we have to keep this up at least until I win this portfolio. I can’t and won’t lose to Ezra fucking St. Claire because I fucked up.”
“You sure about this?” Hunter asks softly.
“Yes. If you agree to it?” I plead with Leo.
“If you think it will help you win this portfolio then I guess.” He half smiles.
“But what happens when you win the portfolio and then you get divorced? If you have the portfolio, he is going to be a big part of your working life.” Hunter’s brow creases as he crosses his arms over his chest.
“We will keep up the marriage until the portfolio is won and then we will stage an amicable breakup,” I reply, looking up at Leo, watching his throat work as he swallows roughly. “You sure you’re okay with this?”
“Of course,” he says almost too brightly. “You know I’ll do anything for this family.”
“Anyone going to clue us in as to why these two have to stay married?” Deacon chirps up from behind.
“You pass me that last bacon sandwich, Grumpy, and I’ll fill you in.” Grace winks and Deacon shakes his head at her, but I catch the slight tug on his lips.
I emailed Cole back thanking him for the well wishes and letting him know that I will bring Leo along to our meeting.
We are extremely happy and in love.
It was an impulsive decision but we couldn’t wait. We looked at each other and we both just knew.
Well, that’s what I’ve told Cole.
I can’t exactly tell him that I was ridiculously drunk and can’t remember marrying my brother’s best friend, who by the looks he is giving me across the room is regretting sitting next to me on that bench last night. I’ve ruined his playboy lifestyle in spectacular fashion, and now he is attached to me with the figurative ball and chain until I secure this deal.
I thought I was figuring out my life after the shambles of my relationship with Ezra, but apparently I’m still able to mess up even in my thirties.
Fuck my life.
“How’s the head?” Jade sits down opposite me and passes me a fresh bottle of water.
