Page 218 of The Rebel Billionaire

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“Hey, how are you feeling?”

She smiles as she makes her way downstairs.

“Better, although it feels as if my stomach has been punched multiple times,” she says, her hand resting just below her ribcage.

“And the wedding?”

“It was beautiful. The bride looked stunning. I’m glad I could be a part of it, even from a distance.”

Her eyes glisten, and I know how much it hurts that she was unable to attend.

Getting up, I move towards her, and she steps into my arms without a second thought.

“Thank you,” she mutters against my shoulder.

“No thanks necessary. I’m just glad I was here to help.”

“I don’t mean just about that. For giving me space today.”

I clasp her chin between my thumb and forefinger, making her look up.

“When you are ready to tell everyone about me, then you can. I agree a wedding is probably not the best place.”

“Thank you for understanding.”

I lean in and drop a kiss on her forehead.

“Do you want some dinner?”

“Despite the heat, I fancy some porridge.”

I smile.

“Your wish is my command.”

I take her hand and lead her into the kitchen. I sit her down at the island before opening the cupboard.

“I can do it,” she says.

I raise an eyebrow. “No offence, beautiful…”

She holds up a hand and gives me a lopsided grin. “Fine, I’ll admit defeat,” she says. “I appreciate it.”

I grab the oats and milk and set about making porridge on the cooktop.

“Any news?” she asks, watching me stir the mixture as it heats.

I’ve been on conference calls all day.

I shake my head. “We’ve decided Elise is heading off to Milan and then Paris solo, for the menswear fashion weeks.”

“You’re no longer going?”

“I’m needed here. With everything that’s going on.”

The frustration is starting to get to me as we’re still no closer to tracking down the bastard responsible, and I spent half the night awake wondering who on our team is selling us out.