Page 107 of The Rebel Billionaire

A keeper of secrets and memories you hold dear,

I have a spine, but no bones.

Not to be shared unless you choose

With a key kept next to your heart.

Avril’s face lights up.

“A journal?”

Brooke smiles, and my gaze settles on my niece as she tears open the wrapping, her expression one of pure delight. She holds the beautiful journal close to her chest.

“It’s gorgeous. And it has a lock.”

I quirk an eyebrow.

“No teenager wants their thoughts scrutinised,” Brooke says.

“Thank you, Brooke,” Avril says. “I shall start writing in it tonight.”

We move around the table, every gift is incredibly well thought out. Then it’s my turn.

I pick up my gift. Whatever it is, is hidden inside a box.

I’m born hot, not cold

Often forgotten while emergencies unfold.

Problem now solved.

Avril giggles.

I shake the present.

“A mug?” I say, thinking the box is the size of an average coffee cup.

“I was tempted, but you have so many,” Brooke admits. “Your ‘CEO’ and ‘Bossman’ mugs take up half the kitchen cupboard.”

“It’s not my fault everyone wants to buy the CEO a mug.”

Enzo rolls his eyes.

“You can’t talk. You’ve got the same in London,” Gabbi says.

Enzo runs St Clair’s London-based jewellery division.

“Born hot, not cold?”

“You’re close, think outside the box.”

“Come on, Uncle Alex.”

“Something to do with my coffee?” I ask, holding the box to my ear and gently shaking it.

“Yes.”

Brooke grins, clearly loving this, and I can see why. Her family tradition has been so well received that I suspect our family may adopt it. Even Mother looks entertained.