Page 48 of The Billionaire’s Secret

“They’ll be fine,” Andrei assured Paulo.

Reluctantly, Paulo led his friend to his office. Once the door closed, Paulo headed for the bar while Andrei wandered around the room. "What are you drinking?"

"Whatever you're having."

Paulo poured two glasses of scotch as Andrei examined the bookshelves and framed photographs. His attention eventually landed on the desk. He stopped, narrowed his eyes, and stepped closer.

"What is this?"

Paulo looked up and immediately regretted it. Andrei was holding the chain of paper clips. A very long chain of paper clips.

The other man lifted the chain carefully, studying it with growing interest before glancing toward the closed office door. Then he looked back at the paper clips. Then at the door again.

By the time Paulo crossed the room with the drinks, he knew exactly what conclusion his friend was reaching.

Paulo, not wanting to explain what he’d done and why he was being punished, just grumbled, “Don't ask."

Andrei blinked, still holding the chain aloft.

Paulo shoved a glass into his hand. "Seriously. Don't."

The warning came out far grumpier than intended.

Andrei's mouth twitched. "I wasn't going to."

"You were."

Andrei chuckled as he followed Paulo to the chairs. "I absolutely was."

Paulo pointed toward the seating area. "Sit down."

For several minutes they discussed shipping routes, customs inspections in Rotterdam, and a handful of business issues that required attention. Eventually Paulo set his glass aside.

"Now tell me why you're actually here."

The amusement vanished from Andrei's face.

Paulo noticed immediately.