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Chapter Twenty Four
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2022-06-02 15:31:54Related chapters
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Twenty Five
His laughter echoed through the kitchen. The chill settled around her as he walked away. Maya held her breath as he started up the stairs, but the dogs were still quiet.She raced into the living room, put on the baseball game, pumped up the volume, and went into the back room to check on the canines.The afghan was torn to shreds. She pried it out of the black lab’s teeth and stuck it in the bottom desk drawer. The paper was already dirty, so she cleaned up, spread freshnewsprint down, and laid some down over the couch and chair for extra insurance. She refilled the water bowls and figured they’d all have to go out again in another hour before bedtime.She shut the door, sped into the kitchen, and finished dinner while shouting loud comments to her players.Alex came down for his dinner and quickly went back upstairs.Exhausted from her trickery, she vowed from now on to be honest with the shelter. She managed to sneak the dogs out in small groups for the rest of the evening.When t
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Twenty Six
He glared. “I know what the damn dog wants, I’m not an idiot. Contrary to what you must think of me, that is. You used your favor to keep me locked upstairs so I wouldn’t find out about this.” He took in her guilty expression. “You’re a good liar, Maya. I guess I never knew how good.”She stopped cowering, and pulled herself to full height in her bare feet. “I had to lie! I’m living with an animal hater who’d rather see innocentpuppies in the gas chamber than mess up his house!”Alex gritted his teeth and swore. “Don’t try to turn this around on me, woman. You never even asked, just snuck a bunch of dogs in my spareroom. Did you see what they did to my house? And where’s my orange afghan?”She threw back her head and made a frustrated wail. “I should have known you care more about your stupid possessions than a life! You’re justlike the guy from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang remember he used to lock away all the children so the city would be neat and clean and organized? Heaven forbid ev
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Twenty Seven
Alex turned and headed toward the door, disarmed the alarm, and let his hand pause on the knob.“You okay?”She shuddered but managed to speak. “Yes.”He opened the door to a uniformed cop whose anticipation for trouble changed to suspicion. Alex’s drugged eyes and obvious arousal must have seemed suspicious, because the cop peeked down the hall to the robed woman and crowd of dogs about her feet. He holstered the weapon. “Sir, you reported a break-in.”Alex wondered if this moment was about to challenge his most embarrassing. He pushed a hand through his mussed hair and grabbed forhis usual, logical sequence of thought. “Right. I’m sorry, officer, there’s been a mistake. Please come in.”He knew if he didn’t let him in it would look suspicious. The cop took the scene in with a glance and seemed to note the woman appeared willing and the dogs weren’t trying to protect her from a maniac. He tipped his head.“Ma’am.”She swallowed hard. “Officer. Sorry about this.” As if she knew Alex
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Twenty Eight
Alex struggled for composure at his wife’s speech. The itch between his shoulder blades warned him she hid a lot more than she let on. He knew this moment could turn on a quarter and not a dime if he took one step away from his logically plotted course.He pushed the nagging thought away and looked at her. As the days passed, he realized she became more beautiful to him. Light shimmered from her eyes, and smile, and her very heart. Their dialogues pushed opendoors he thought had been locked, but the result was a strange flow of emotion he didn’t feel comfortable with and never would. She was a woman who needed a secure relationship. Hell, she was a woman who deserved it. He could only give her sex and friendship. Not love.He’d made his decision years ago. The cost was too great.So, Alex watched the fragile thread snap between them again with a mixture of emotions and too much damn regret.He forced a nod and a slight smile. “Apology and explanation accepted.No more analyzing.”She
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Twenty Nine
“Alex.” Her eyes burned but her tone was chilly. “It’s good to see you.”He nodded. “What’s going on?”“I need some advice. I got a contract offer for Lace Cosmetics.”“That’s a huge account, Diana. Congratulations. What’s the problem?”She leaned in. The expensive scent of Chanel drifted in the air. “It’s a two-year deal but I’d need to relocate to California.” Emerald eyes widened with the perfect amount of innocence and desire. “This is my home. And I hate Baywatch mentality. I’ve always been a die-hard New Yorker. Like you.”A warning bell clanged somewhere in his brain. “You need to decide this for yourself. It’s over between us. I’m married.”“We had something real. I think you got spooked and jumped at the first female you could control.”He shook his head with a twinge of sadness. “I’m sorry, that’s not true. I have to go.”“Wait!” One moment she stood a few inches away, the next she was squished against his chest with her arms looped around his neck and her hips seriously gri
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Thirty
Guilt gnawed at her stomach. The lies added up to an impressive pile.First to her parents. Then to Alex. How was she supposed to explain the lack of expansion when Alex had already handed over the check? And her parents thought she was now rolling in dough. They’d be questioning Alex about when he’d begin the architectural work for BookCrazy. After all, why wouldn’t her husband help his own wife with her business?The elaborate tower of cards swayed and threatened to topple.She drove home amidst the edges of gloom and pulled in next to Alex ’s car. She hoped he had made dinner, then realized she couldn’t haveanything but a salad because she cheated on her diet at lunch with a delicious, greasy cheeseburger deluxe and large fries. Her mood turned blacker.When she walked in, the house practically expanded with the scent of garlic and herbs and tomatoes. Maya threw her purse on the couch, kicked off her shoes, and hiked up her skirt to rip off her pantyhose before entering the kitch
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Thirty One
Her heart beat so fast the blood roared in her head. This was bad. Very, very bad. “Umm, Alex, I don’t expect you to help me with the cafe. Youhave enough on your plate with the waterfront project and the board hounding your every step. Besides, I already sort of hired someone.”“Who?”Shit.She waved her hand in the air in a dismissive gesture. “Forgot his name.A customer recommended him. He’s, um, drawing up the plans and we’ll start soon. I may wait until spring.”He frowned. “No reason to wait. I don’t trust this guy already. Give me his number and I’ll talk to him.”“No.”“Why not?”“Because I don’t want you involved.” The words seemed to punch him like a surprise right hook. He winced, then quickly recovered. The miseryof her lies festered, but she reminded herself to stick to business, even though she knew in some strange way she hurt him.His face reflected disinterest. “Fine. If that’s what you prefer.”Her voice gentled. “I’d just like to stick to business in our relation
Last Updated : 2022-06-02BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Thirty Two
She continued creating the perfect sundae and let him dangle in discomfort. “She was upset because I rejected her.”“Why’d you push her away, Alex?”He looked distinctly uncomfortable. “Because we made some promises. Even if we’re not sleeping together, we agreed I wouldn’t cheat.”“Very logical. I’m surprised you were able to think so clearly after such a kiss. With me, I understand. But Diana seems to inspire a morepassionate response.”His mouth dropped open. She swished the whipped cream and drizzled a few cherries on top, then stood back to admire her creation.“You think I react more passionately to Diana?”She lifted one shoulder. “It was obvious the night I met her you two tore up the sheets together. We don’t have that problem. The only times you’ve ever kissed me was when you were pissed off or bored.”“Bored?” He rubbed his face with his hands and tore his fingers through his hair. A humorless laugh escaped his lips. “I don’t believe this. You have no idea how I was feelin
Last Updated : 2022-06-02
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BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Nine
I wrapped a towel around Gracie and tucked her against my chest. She grizzled and grasped against my skin, her legs bending and stretching. She was anxious to get going. At six months old, from the second she openedher eyes, until they finally, begrudgingly, shut for the night, she was on the go. There was a lot of bum wiggling these days I had many videos on my phone from Maya, and I had witnessed it many times, but she hadn’t yet started crawling, although I expected it any day.I had taken her in the shower with me. She loved showers and I didn’t want to leave her alone too long. She laughed the whole time, and though I couldn’t say I was as clean as I normally would be, I would pass for the day.I carefully patted her hair dry after I fastened her diaper. The sounds of Maya being ill made me hurry back to our room. Last night, she hadsuddenly wanted Japanese food. She disliked sushi but loved tempura.When she called and asked me to bring home dinner, I was only too happy to pic
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Eight
I settled into the chair on the deck with a relieved groan. Gracie was asleep, I was clean, and Maya was resting. I had tried repeatedly to get Gracie to say “Dada” again so Maya could hear it, but she chose to remain silent.“Honestly, Maya. She said it.”She patted my cheek. “I believe you.”I knew without a doubt, she was lying. But Gracie had said it while she was reaching for me. Or it may have been duh, but I was certain it was Dada.The house was quiet, the sun beginning to set, and I was enjoying a hard-earned beer and sandwich. The water in the pool shimmered in the evening light, and I decided I’d have a dip once I finished eating.I had spoken to Michael, and he told me the contract had been signed. I laughed at his description of me striding back into the boardroom with Gracie strapped to my chest, and a bottle in my hand, determined to finishmy presentation. “Not a sight I ever thought I’d see when it came to you, Alex. I almost fell off my chair.”I had to agree with hi
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Seven
Alex. Fuck, it had been so long since we were like this. Together, naked, and ready for each other. I hadn’t wanted to push her and tried to be patient, even though patience wasn’t my strongest trait. The fact she came to me was a huge turn on, and seeing her need, I planned to meet and exceed her desire. She was softer, curvier than before she got pregnant, and I loved how she felt under my hands.Her low hiss when I buried my face between her legs made me smile against her slick skin. She was so ready for me. I was so fucking ready.Everything about her was as new as it was familiar: her sounds, her taste, the way she moved against my mouth. I teased and licked, groaning at her reactions, making a mental note to keep the beard. Olivia teased me mercilessly at work, but it was worth this effect on my wife. She came hard and fast, her cries low and needy. I sat up with a grin, and settled betweenher legs. The blunt head of my cock nudged at her entrance, the heat beckoning and welco
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty six
Maya. I woke up, hearing soft whispers. I rolled over, guessing correctly that Alex had once again gotten out of bed and was in the nursery. His side of the bed was vacant, and the monitor lit up as he spoke to our daughter while feeding her. I loved hearing him chat to her. Richard never minced words not even with me. He was a straight shooter and spoke his mind. He showed me a gentler side when we fell in love, but his personality never changed much. He was still demanding and blunt. He had learned, however, to rein in the harsher side of his character, and knew how to deal with people now.At least most of the time.But with Gracie he was different.With her, he was soft. That was the only way to describe it. He changed completely with her. She brought forth the tender, loving man in him. He hurried home at night, anxious to be with us. He reached for her as soon as he came in the door, ready to forget businessman Alex, and assume the role of Daddy. He laughed and made funny faces
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Five
Hearing that word made me blink. Then i blinked again. Daddy. A title I never thought would belong to me. A swell of sentiment made my throat thick. I reached out and grasped Maya’s hand, needing her touch.“I’ll be the best daddy I can be.”“I know you will be. You’re already the best husband.”Leaning down, I captured her mouth with mine, feeling a thousand emotions. Ones only Maya, and now Gracie, could make me feel. Feelings Ididn’t know existed happiness and elation so poignant it made my chest ache. Contentment and peace that permeated my life simply from their presence. I had found a group of people I considered my family now, but Maya and Gracie belonged to me. They were my world, and I knew I was theirs. “Thank you, my Maya. For my daughter. For you.”She cupped my cheek. “Are you all right, Alex?”I swallowed, turning my head, kissing her palm. I knew if I told her, she would understand. She always understood me. “It’s just all . . .”“Overwhelming? Scary?”“Yes.”“We’ll ha
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Four
Things progressed to the point it was time to move to the delivery room. I had walked with her until she couldn’t walk anymore, fed her ice chips, rubbed her back and shoulders, and reassured her even as worry ate its way into my stomach. I blinked away tears when I saw the amount of pain she was experiencing. I let her hold my hand, not caring that she might break it with her death grip, as the contractions became stronger and closer together.She did change her mind about the epidural, and although I was grateful it took away the pain, I lost it when I saw the size of the needle they used. I had wanted to be involved, and they showed me how to hold Maya’s shoulders to help with the procedure. I stepped forward to do so, caught sight of the needle, and froze. They had to push me out of the way, and thesame nurse who had been at the front desk, stood in my place, all the while chuckling about “men and pain.” I had a feeling I would never live it down.I would also never live down lea
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Three
Her gaze went to Maya. “You can walk if you want to in fact, I recommend it. There’re ice chips and water here. Are you certain no epidural?”Maya shook her head. She was adamant on that subject, no matter how I pleaded with her to change her mind.Dr. Suzanne smiled at Maya and patted her hand. “You can change your mind, if you want, but we can’t leave it too long. There is a point we can’t go back.”“I know. I want to do this without drugs.”“Okay, you two. Settle in. I’ll be back shortly.”She left, and I bent over and kissed my wife, meeting her worried gaze steadily. “I’m here, sweetheart. You’re going to be fine. I won’t leave you for a minute. And later, we’re going to meet our child.”“It’s so overwhelming,” she admitted in a shaky voice. “I’m scared.”I was relieved she said the words aloud. I pressed another kiss on her head.“What do you need?”“You to hold me.”“You never have to ask.”She shifted to the side, and I sat beside her, wrapping my arms around her body, spreadi
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty Two
Turning into the large entrance of the hospital, I slammed on the brakes so hard my car shuddered. My tires squealed and left black marks on the pavement. Flinging open the door, I lunged out of the seat, not even bothering to shut the door behind me. I was lucky I remembered to take the keys.A security guard stopped me before I made it to the sliding doors of the hospital, holding up his hand.“Sir, you can’t leave your car there. The parking lot is across the street.. ”I interrupted him, shaking my head. I tossed my keys in his direction.“Look, kid, I trust you. Park my car and bring me the keys.”“I can’t do that!”Reaching into my pocket, I grabbed a wad of cash. I had no idea how much it was, but to this kid standing in front of me, blocking my way,masking his youth by pretending to be forceful, I was certain it was a fortune. I shoved the money into his hand, smirking as his eyes widened at the sight of the cash.“Sure you can. Think of it as a reward for a job well done. Pa
BILLIONAIRE'S BRIDE Chapter Sixty One
“You’re blushing.”“I’m sorry.” I offered a sheepish smile. “Not sure how to say I read an article about you without sounding awkward.”He laughed. “I’m flattNick watched her safely enter her loft and waited for the light to click on.The low purr of the BMW was the only sound to break the silence.His annoyance at her blunt admission bothered him. Why did he care ifshe wanted the money? It was a perfect motivation to get them both throughthe next year with no damages. He needed to keep his distance. Her parentscaused a dangerous longing to bubble up from deep inside. He quicklysquashed the emotion, but the idea that he still retained some sick ray ofhope for a normal family pissed him off.Maybe it was the way she looked tonight. She’d pinned her hair up, andstubborn black curls stabbed through the bobby pins to lay across her cheekand down her neck. Her skin looked warm to the touch, slightly flushedwith pleasure from being around her family. She smiled so easily, her lipsf
