Page 113 of The Rebel Billionaire

“Gabriella, this is Aubrey. Aubrey, this is my sister Gabriella.”

I notice he doesn’t introduce her as Gabbi, and warmth blooms inside my chest.

“Pleased to meet you.”

“This is Brooke Feldmann,” he says.

“Ah, Brooke. Why do I know that name?”

I hold out my hand. “We’ve spoken on the telephone several times.”

“Ah, you’re the PA.” Her tone makes it clear that I’m meant to take it as a slur. “You’re the one who never puts me through,” she adds.

Alex turns to her. “Yes, because she’s good at her job.”

Ouch.

His jaw flexes. He’s mad. Is it because Aubrey’s here, or is there more afoot?

“Always working.” She tuts, trying to cover up his verbal slap.

She reminds me of so many of the men and women I grew up around, all carrying the same air of entitlement Mum slapped out of us from a very young age.

“Brooke, if you’d like a ride back into the city, I’ll be leaving in five minutes.”

“Great,” I say to his retreating back.

“I’ll be back. I just need to powder my nose.” Aubrey turns and heads in the opposite direction.

“Methinks there’s a shit tonne of trouble in paradise,” Gabbi hisses under her breath, but there’s also an element of glee. I’m getting the impression she’s unimpressed with her brother’s choice of lady friend.

I remain silent, not wanting to fuel the fire or make assumptions.

Gabbi grips my arm. “Sorry, it’s just that she’s one of those. I can see it as plain as the nose on your face.”

“One of them?”

“Someone who sees Alex as a means to an end. Models, actresses, wannabe designers. Since Loretta left, there has been a constant stream. He’s usually better at spotting them, but Aubrey…”

“Maybe he genuinely likes her?” I say.

She raises an eyebrow. “Does his behaviour tonight tell you they’re a match made in heaven?”

I incline my head but decide I’m better off staying quiet. It’s not my place to make a judgement on Alex’s love life.

“I better say goodbye to your parents and Enzo,” I say, giving her forearm a squeeze.

“I’ll come with you. I may retire for the night. Not sure I can stand much more of this social posturing.”

We approach Sophia and Edoardo, who are holding court in the centre of the room.

“Ah, Brooke, how are you enjoying yourself?” Edoardo asks.

“It’s been a wonderful party, thank you,” I say with a smile as Gabbi whispers “Liar,” in my ear.

“Brooke is our son’s incredibly efficient PA,” he continues.

“Delightful,” one of the women says.