Page 134 of The Rebel Billionaire

“We should be thanking you. You’ve done everything you’ve been asked to do. When I first found out who we were covering, I did wonder.”

I sigh, the corners of my lips tilting. I can only imagine. The infamous Rebel Frazer!

“My reputation preceded me?”

He turns and smiles, his eyes twinkling. “Don’t worry about it. You’re not what we were expecting, far from it.”

“I shall take that as a compliment,” I say.

His grin widens. “You should.”

We pull into the parking lot, and I grab my bag. “Thanks,” I say.

“I’m Dan, my flatmate is Mitch.”

“Pleased to meet you, Dan. It’s great finally meeting one of the neighbours,” I say as the old lady I often see in the elevator walks past, giving us both a friendly nod.

“You too.”

We walk towards our apartments and open our respective doors.

“Have a great evening,” I say. “Thanks again.”

“You too, Brooke.”

That’s how it starts. As promised, one, or the other is there every evening when class ends. For the first time in months, I find myself relaxing, not only because I feel anonymous but also because the class is small and the students are dedicated. Most of them are older. They’re there to learn, not to gossip.

But it’s more than that. The design work and briefs come thick and fast, and at last, I’m doing something for me… the real me. I’ve been forced into a situation where I must follow the rules, stay hidden, cut ties with my old friends, and refrain from making new ones. I’ve been ordered to keep a low profile and ensure I don’t do anything that might draw attention to myself. But since starting my classes, despite the extra-long hours at work, I leave every lesson energised.

With the team opposite on board, this feels harmless and controlled. It gives me something other than St Clair and daydreams about my tall, dark, and sexy boss, and a kiss that’s left me wanting more than I should.

CHAPTER 38

ALEX

Brooke seems tired but galvanised, if that makes any sense, and I wonder if she’s met someone. The thought twists something inside me.

She’s clearly put our Christmas indiscretion behind her, and after my talk with the guys, I’m trying to do the same.

Which should be possible.

Although I trust Brooke, with fashion week fast approaching, this is her first rodeo. I can’t allow any errors, which means I’m like Santa Claus, making a list and checking it twice. So far, so good. She’s proven herself once again to be resourceful and adaptable. Every task I’ve set has been done efficiently and effectively, so I thought I’d back off, but I can’t.

I exit the elevator and hear laughter.

“I can’t believe it. They’re adorable, so tiny and perfectly formed.”

“Of course they are,” a male voice says. “They’re mine.”

Brooke chuckles.

“Give Leah, Callum, and the twins a big kiss from me.” She smiles down at the screen she’s holding.

“Wub ooh, ant Haps,” a small boy says, followed by what sounds like kissing noises.

“I love you too, Callum. You make sure you help Mummy and Daddy with your sisters.” Her voice catches slightly, her eyes glistening in the dimmed light.

“He is,” a woman’s voice comes through the phone this time.