Page 108 of The Rebel Billionaire

“Something to warm my coffee?”

“Close enough,” she says, her bright eyes meeting mine.

Unable to help myself, I grin as I tear open the wrapping paper and stare down at the box inside. A smart mug warmer.

“You sit your coffee on it, and it keeps it warm,” Brooke says, although her expression is less certain now that I’ve opened it.

“It’s fantastic. I shall look forward to trying it in the new year. I’m over drinking cold coffee. This can be my New Year’s resolution.”

She shoots me a shy smile.

“Your turn,” Gabbi says.

She’s rearranged the seating plan to ensure she’s sitting next to Brooke.

Brooke’s cheeks darken.

“Read it out,” Avril says.

I have no key, hinges or lid

A little sparkle, a little shine,

but not to be hid

I come in a pair but have no legs.

Brooke picks up the tiny box, her eyes darting to Gabbi.

“You didn’t,” she whispers.

“You said you liked them.” Gabbi grins.

My sister loves giving gifts. Another thing she and Brooke have in common.

“What, what is it?” Avril says, clearly enjoying this part of Christmas.

“Earrings?” she asks, and Gabbi grins.

Brooke tears open the wrapping, her eyes popping wide as she takes in the gift my sister has given her. Diamond earrings.

“This is too much,” Brooke says.

“No, it’s not. They’re St Clair. You said you liked mine, so what better gift than your own set? I had Enzo bring them over.”

Gabbi pulls back her hair, revealing a pair of earrings identical to the set Brooke now has in her hands.

Brooke’s eyes glisten. “Thank you, I shall treasure them.”

Mother claps her hands, breaking the moment. “Elaine is ready to serve.”

Christmas dinner is a jovial affair, with Brooke bringing an easy sense of warmth to the table, and when Mother glances over, I can almost read her mind.

“I told you so.”

I want to roll my eyes but don’t, because for the first time in years, Mother and Father have also kept their snipes to a minimum. Brooke’s sense of humour and positive outlook on life are infectious.

After dessert, Elaine brings in the tea and coffee.