Share

Chapter 82

Author: Theresa Oliver
last update Last Updated: 2022-04-11 19:30:15
"Would you like a drink?" Grayson asked. He and Xavier were alone in the parlor at the castle. Their father was out, and Quinn was at a photoshoot.

"It's only twelve-thirty in the afternoon!" Xavier chuckled. "Besides, I thought you'd given up drinking." He crossed the room, picked up a glass from the bar, and turned it upright.

"In the immortal words of Jimmy Buffet, it's five o'clock somewhere." Grayson laughed. "I slowed down, but I never said I stopped." Grayson sighed, pouring them both a Scotch on the rocks. "But this is the first drink I've had since Ari left."

"Well, she didn't exactly leave...." Xavier corrected.

Grayson sighed. "No, not like that. Since she went to visit her family." He handed Xavier a drink and they both sat in opposite brown leather club chairs. Xavier clinked his glass with Grayson's.

Xavier took a drink and then looked at his brother. "So, anything new in the investigation?"

"Why do you ask?"

Xavier shrugged. "I saw that you were holding Sam. Is he a su
Locked Chapter
Continue to read this book on the APP

Related chapters

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 83

    Ari and Vickie ordered pizza again that night. She thought that hearing Grayson's voice would cheer her up, but the only thing it did was make her more depressed. She and Vickie were sitting on the sofa, eating pizza off paper plates, as if nothing had changed and they were still in college. When she was with Vickie, Ari could always be herself... no matter what."I'm telling you, you need to go with me tonight!" Vickie begged. "It's New Year's Eve and I'm not leaving you here alone!" Vickie was literally jumping on the couch now."Ugg!" Ari moaned. "Stop it! You're going to make me dump my pizza! And a big pizza stain would look real lovely on this beige sofa."Vickie shrugged. "Couldn't hurt it. It's probably scotch guarded anyway."Ari rolled her eyes."I'm telling you, girl! This party will be rockin'! And if you miss it, you'll regret it forever." Vickie watched her and then gave her the puppy-dog pout, complete with the huge eyes and turned down bottom lip."Oh, no you don't!" Ar

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 84

    "But it's not what it looked like!" Ari yelled at Grayson."Obviously," Grayson threw over his shoulder as he pulled her through the crowd. "Vickie—""Can take care of herself," he growled. Ari had never seen him like this before, not listening to reason, as he pulled her roughly through the crowd.When they were a safe distance away, Grayson pulled her toward a waiting limousine. A driver she didn't recognize opened the door and Grayson shoved her in."Do not ever push me like that again!" Ari yelled, her voice sounding louder than she had intended inside the limo."How much have you had to drink?" Grayson growled, his eyes ice as he stared at her. Ari scoffed. "Just a few glasses of wine at the hotel before we came." Ari sighed. "Look, Grayson! I don't know what you think you saw back there, but it's not what it looked like! I didn't even want to come tonight!" Despite her best efforts to keep the tears at bay, they welled up behind her eyes. Hot, angry tears. "Who was that man y

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 85

    Although she was tempted not to, Ari ordered room service but made a mental note to pay with it out of her own money and not the credit card Grayson gave her. After she hung up, she sat on the sofa, wondering how one little misunderstanding could lead to such a disaster. And she couldn't even blame Vickie. After all, she could have said no and stuck to it. Ari was determined that the next time, she wouldn't put herself in such a position.But then again, why was Grayson with her if he couldn't trust her? She had told him the truth, after all. And what if it had been worse? What would Grayson had said then?When room service came, Ari paid the man at the door, not letting him come into the room. She also paid for it out of her own money, determined not to charge more than necessary to his credit card. Not in the mood for a full breakfast, she took a plate, filled it with fruit, sat back on the sofa, and nibbled a grape.Vickie still hadn't come back yet, so she had obviously found him.

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 86

    Ari walked into the hospital with Grayson and Vickie a little while later. Within minutes, they were on Henley's floor. "Oh! Thank goodness you're here!" the nurse said, already ushering her into a room. "We'll prep you first and then we'll wheel you into the operating room.""Operating room?" Ari asked, her eyebrows pulling together in concern.The nurse nodded. "Yes, but don't worry. It's a procedure that must take place in the operating room." She shrugged. "It only takes a few hours. Then you'll need to take it easy for the rest of the day, but it'll take a full week to fully recover." The kind woman patted her hand. "But don't worry. We'll keep an eye on you, and if there are no complications, you can go home this afternoon.""Thank you." Ari said."Hey...." Grayson slid his hand down her arm. Then pulled her to him and kissed her forehead. "I'll be here when you come out."A part of her wanted to say something smart, but she needed him too much. "I'm glad you're here." Then she

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 87

    "It feels good to be back," Ari said as they headed into the Plaza Hotel a little while later. Ari nearly fell asleep in the limo, and Vickie had been exceptionally quiet on the way. Ari knew she was going to have to talk with her to tell her that she didn't blame her at all."I'll go back home tonight... since Grayson's here," Vickie announced when they entered the elevator.Grayson gave her a look of disbelief. "You don't have to. I'll keep the other room for another night. Or you can stay with us. There is another room in the suite, after all."Vickie smirked. "Thanks, but three's a crowd.""Stay," Ari asked. "And if you don't want to stay with us, then stay in Grayson's room."Vickie looked at her, obviously trying to keep a straight face as Grayson chuckled. "That didn't sound quite right, did it?" Ari asked, cringing."Nope!" Vickie said. "But that's why I love you.""Vickie, I don't want to bring anything up, but I just want to say this. Last night wasn't your fault," Ari said.

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 88

    Ari woke the next morning, feeling like a truck had just run her over. It wasn't that her muscles ached, it was that she felt more tired than anything else. Even though it might be just when you give blood and not when donating stem cells, she still felt that drinking orange juice was the key to feeling better and replenishing her electrolytes."How do you feel?" Grayson asked, rolling over onto his side, sexy as ever with his bare, muscled chest."Tired." Ari placed her arm over her head, onto the pillow. "Other than that, I feel pretty good. I guess I'd better go take a shower and get ready to go to the hospital."Grayson stroked a strand of hair away from her face. "Why don't you stay at the hotel today with me? We can go back to sleep for a while, and take our time getting up."Ari shook her head. "No, I want to go down and check on Henley." She sat up, feeling famished.Grayson sat up, too, and rubbed her back. "Hungry?"Ari nodded. "Yes, I have a sudden craving for orange juice a

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 89

    As they ate, Grayson hoped that one day Ari could forgive him. But he wasn't the only one who had lost someone. Her own father had left her mother, her sister, and her alone. Secretly, he wondered why. But then again, was there ever a good reason to leave your family behind? Grayson knew there wasn't."Ari, why don't you go back to bed and I'll be in soon." Grayson wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her to him. "Let me take care of you today." He knew he had a lot to make up for, and he wanted to start now. "I know it's going to take a lot to gain your trust again, but let me try. Let me make it up to you. Please, give me a chance."Ari nodded, giving him a small smile. "We can lay down for a bit, but I really want to go to the hospital to check on Henley.""Well, why don't you call to see how she's doing while you're in the shower?" Grayson suggested. "If she's doing well, then let's stay here. But if she needs you, we'll go in."Ari thought for a moment and then nodded. "Okay

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11
  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 90

    They headed through the doors of the hospital a bit later and, true to his word, Grayson had taken her to a fast food restaurant and got takeout, which they ate in the limo on the way. Now, they took the elevator up to Henley's floor and stepped out a moment later. Grayson made a mental note to speak with the hospital administrator while they were there. He needed to get back to Estrea, but he didn't want to leave without Ari... not this time."Ari, I'm so glad you're here," her mother said, pulling her in for a quick hug.Ari gave her mother a weak smile. "Sorry we didn't come earlier, but I was too tired and couldn't get out of bed."Her mother placed a hand on the side of her cheek, looking into her eyes. "How do you feel now?""Much better. Thanks." Ari sighed. "Grayson called and spoke with the nurse before we came, and she said that Henley's been vomiting."Celeste nodded. "Yes, but that's to be expected."A crease formed between Ari's eyes. "Do you think the transplant took?""I

    Last Updated : 2022-04-11

Latest chapter

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 147

    Grayson was proud of his father's efforts to unite Estrea once again. It was clear that the old ways were no longer working. It was time for a fresh start. And King Maxwell of Estrea was determined to do just that.The election was held the next month, as King Maxwell promised, and the Royal Council was selected. But through it all, the feeling in Estrea had been one of new hope. In the news, King Maxwell was praised for his bold initiative to bring the realm into the Twenty-First Century.A few weeks later, the first meeting of the Royal Council was held on April 1. The board voted to continue holding the meetings twice a month, on the first and third Mondays, to keep the council abreast of the happenings of Estrea. The king then promised to make the proceedings and decisions made by the council known to the public in the interest of full disclosure. There was also a procedure set in place for grievances, ensuring that everyone's concerns would be heard. "So, what about the name Maso

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 146

    The next day, Grayson was working in his office at the castle when Xavier walked in. Without a word, he crossed the room to the television and flipped it on. Then he stood back and folded his arms across his chest."And in the news today," Ella J. Scott said to the camera. "The body of Prince Marcus Pierce was found in an old abandoned warehouse, along with the bodies of other men. One of the men has been identified as Piers Wingfield, former head of security for the Crown. King Maxwell Pierce and members of the Royal Family have made no comment as to the cause of death. In other news—"Xavier sighed, folding his arms across his chest. "I don't think you have to worry about paying Piers now.""Let's speak with Father," Grayson said, already headed toward the door.Xavier followed. "What should we tell him?"Grayson sighed, turning around to face him with his hand on their father's door. "The truth."Xavier looked at him for a moment, and then nodded his agreement.Grayson knocked on th

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 145

    A week later when Ari was feeling better, she finally had that meeting with the hospital administrator about Henley's House. This time, Henley, her mother, and Vickie attended. Grayson had wanted to go, too, but Ari had to persuade him to let her go without him. After all, she couldn't live in fear for the rest of her life."This is a wonderful idea. I appreciate you bringing it to us," said the hospital administrator, Dr. Sienna Gallagher. "We look forward to hearing more about it. And please be sure to tell His Majesty King Maxwell Pierce and His Highness Grayson Pierce how much we appreciate it. Cancer patients, and their families, will be very appreciative."After speaking with Dr. Gallagher, and at Henley's insistence, Ari had decided to expand Henley's House to include all cancer patients treated at Estrea Medical Hospital, not just leukemia patients.Ari held out her hand. "The pleasure is ours. Thank you for offering us the land on which to build. I'll speak with my husband and

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 144

    Ari had fallen asleep on the way home, despite her best efforts to stay awake. But the lack of sleep and the continuous motion of Grayson stroking her hair, made sleep inevitable. But now that she was with Grayson again, the world could fall apart, and she wouldn't care. Her stomach hurt a bit, waking her."Are you alright?" Grayson asked, his voice filled with concern.Ari nodded. "My stomach's hurting just a bit, but I'm fine. I just need to rest.""And eat," Xavier added, looking at her in the rearview mirror. Ari laughed. "Well, that's a given." She thought for a moment, wanting to word it correctly. "Xavier, Grayson, thank you both for coming to my rescue.""It's my pleasure, my lady," Xavier teased."You know I would move heaven and earth to get to you," Grayson replied, his voice low and husky.Xavier nodded. "And he is not exaggerating."Ari laughed. "Well, I truly appreciate it." Then she thought of something. "I had to do something that I'm not proud of." She bit her lower

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 143

    Ari ran through the forest as quickly as she could, headed toward who knew where. She remembered that there was a road that lead back to the village, and she had to find it. She couldn't follow the beach; she'd ever get home.Home.A small word that held so much power. As she ran, all she could think of was Grayson and going home, their home together, at the castle. Then she fell, stumbling over a root protruding from the ground, but caught herself with her hands. But she got up and started running again. After a bit, she looked behind her to see if anyone was following... and ran straight into something. When she looked up... it was Piers."No!" she screamed at the top of her lungs, her knees buckling under her. But to her surprise, he caught her in his strong arms."Quiet!" Piers said, holding a finger to his lips."Hold it right there." When she looked up and saw Grayson holding a gun, her heart leapt with relief and joy."Grayson!"Piers quickly pulled her in front of him. "I want

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 142

    Grayson rode with Xavier into the night toward the shore. Although the chances of finding her in the dead of night was slim and none, he knew he had to try. And from the moment Xavier had heard, he was along for the ride. Without question. "Thank you for this," Grayson said, looking over at him.One corner of his lips curled into a smile. "You don't have to thank me. You would do the same for me, if the tables were turned.""Without question."Xavier shrugged. "But then again, I'd do it for Ari, anyway."Grayson chuckled. "Of course, you would," he teased. "I'm glad that you two get along so well.""What can I say? She's a nice girl...." Then he grinned. "and I'm a nice guy."Grayson laughed. "Yes, you are... but I didn't say that.""Of course not." Xavier looked over at him and smiled. "So, have you seen anything suspicious?"Grayson shook his head. "No. Nothing that could be used as a fortress or a hideout.""The shore is farther away than I thought." Xavier sighed."Which is why I

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 141

    Ari looked around the warehouse, taking everything in. Maybe she would find a clue as to where she was. She kept hearing the crashing of waves, as if she were near the ocean, which meant that she was a few hours away from the castle. Either way, it would be a long walk back.One thing was certain: she couldn't just run back down the road to the castle, even if she did manage to escape. But then again, if she could just get out, then she could easily find her way back to the castle. Surely, someone would know the way and could give her a ride. Although she had no idea what time it was or how much time had lapsed, she knew she had much less than twenty-four hours now and, although there were no windows, she knew it had to be dark—or close to it—making it the perfect time to escape. But she was also getting hungry and she knew she had to eat soon. Also, when she came out of the restroom earlier, Piers had put another zip tie around her wrists again. So, she had to escape when the Zip tie

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 140

    Grayson called Xavier, knowing he couldn't just sit there and wait. At that moment, he would give anything to have Ari back."Yeah," Xavier answered on the first ring. "Find anything?" Grayson asked, pacing the floor in his office. "Yeah, I think you'd better get down here." From the sound of it, Xavier was pacing, too.Grayson sighed, fearing the worst. "I'll be right there." He clicked off and was ready to walk out when the door slowly opened. "Where's Ari?" Celeste asked, slowly walking in, obviously having overheard something. "Do you know where she is?"Grayson sighed, biting his lower lip. "Please, sit down." He knew he had to go, but her mother deserved to know the truth before he left.Celeste said nothing but slowly walked into the room and folded her arms across her chest. "Where is she?"Grayson looked directly into her eyes, pain ripping through his whole body, as if someone had physically shoved their hand into his chest and ripped his heart out."Ari's been kidnapped."

  • Bought by the Billionaire Prince   Chapter 139

    Ari looked around the warehouse and all eyes were on her. Marcus gritted his teeth as he walked purposefully toward her and slapped her across the face. "How dare you say that about me?" He raised his hand again, but Piers caught it.Piers shook his head. "You gave your word that she will not be harmed for twenty-four hours."Marcus glared at him for a moment, and then ripped his hand out of his grasp. Then he turned his attention to Ari. "Kill me, will you?"Ari raised her head and glared at him, staring daggers into his eyes looking through her hair covering one eye. "Mark my words. You will never get away with this. You should have taken the deal that King Maxwell offered you. It's as good as you're going to get." She shrugged. "It's more than I would have given you.""Why you—" Marcus made a move toward her again, but Piers stood in his way and shook his head in warning."Not while I'm here," Piers replied. Quicker than Ari would have thought possible, Marcus whipped out a gun an

DMCA.com Protection Status