Page 151 of The Rebel Billionaire

“No Brooke?” Mother says as we arrive at my office.

“She’ll be around somewhere,” I say dismissively. “She’s not chained to her desk.”

“Of course not. It’s just that I wanted to say hello, check that she hasn’t had any more migraines.”

“She’s not said anything,” I say.

“Well, that’s good.”

I’m sure there’s more to her interest than simply checking on Brooke.

We step into my office, and Brooke’s scent hits me instantly.

What?

“I’m going to go,” Mother says, air-kissing my cheeks. “Say goodbye to Brooke and tell her I’m sorry I missed her.”

I frown, my mind wandering.

“Sandro?”

I run a hand down my face. “Sorry, not enough coffee this morning, and it’s been a long week.”

“Get some rest. These next few weeks are a marathon, not a sprint. You’ll be doing this all over again in a few days.”

“Don’t remind me.” I groan.

“You’re a natural,” she says.

I’m not so sure. I love the fashion world, the designs, the fabrics. It’s easy to be passionate about something you care deeply about.

“I’d better go. I’ll see you at the airport.”

“Enjoy your weekend,” I say, walking her to the door and seeing her out. I don’t miss the look she shoots at Brooke’s desk as she passes. I close the door behind her and head to my private bathroom.

I tap on the bathroom door.

“You can come out now,” I say quietly, not sure why she’s hiding in there, but it’s where the smell of her perfume is strongest.

There’s a click as the lock disengages.

I should be annoyed, angry, even. My PA is in my private space. Why?

I’m not sure what to expect, but it certainly isn’t what I’m faced with.

“Alex, I’m sorry I…”

Her eyes refuse to meet mine, but there’s no mistaking the fact she’s been crying, and not just a little bit.

“Brooke?” I say, gently taking her forearm and guiding her to the couch in the corner of the room.

She sits, swiping at her cheeks.

I grab an unopened bottle of water from my desk, crack the seal, and hand it to her.

“Drink.”

She takes it and raises it to her lips. It’s impossible to miss the tremor in her hand.