CHAPTER 25

Isla’s POV

“Perhaps it’s those assumptions that keep us at a distance when, in reality, we might have more in common than we think.”

I met his gaze, feeling a strange familiarity as if this wasn’t Mr. Shaw, the untouchable billionaire, but someone else entirely. The thought tugged at me, the hovering suspicion I’d tried to ignore resurfacing.

As we continued the drive, I noticed that Mr. Shaw seemed unusually attentive, going out of his way to make sure I was comfortable. When the car pulled up in front of a charming, upscale restaurant, my eyebrows shot up in surprise. I knew this place was nearly impossible to book on short notice, yet here we were.

“Uh, why are we stopping here?” I asked, glancing up at the restaurant's soft, inviting lights.

“Well, you must be hungry,” he said casually. “I certainly am.”

“But…” My voice trailed off, and I felt like there was no point arguing with him. Besides, I was very curious about him. I need to know if it’s really possible that he’s…

Befor