Page 3 of Born a Billionaire

TWO

When Adelia arrived at the airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the sight of Skylar’s smiling face caused her throat to tighten up. Even more so when Skylar opened her arms and greeted her with a hug, squeezing her harder and longer than usual.

“I like the look.” Skylar motioned to the short brunette wig and sunglasses Adelia donned in the hope of not being recognized.

Adelia’s eyes shifted around the small airport. “Yeah, but we should probably go soon before someone figures out it’s me.”

“I brought the sedan instead of my convertible so we’d be less conspicuous.”

“Good thinking.”

When they were safely inside the car, Adelia removed her sunglasses and leaned back against the headrest. “I appreciate this more than I can say.”

“Hey, I know you’d do the same for me in a heartbeat.”

“Are you sure I won’t be in your way?” Adelia asked.

“Of course not. But I thought you might like to stay at the cottage anyway. It’s empty right now so you’d have the place to yourself, and it’s out of the way so nobody would bother you.”

“That sounds perfect.”

“Great. I already had it all stocked up for you this morning.”

“You’re always so organized.”

“I can’t do much to help with what you’re going through, but I can do this.”

Adelia smiled, unsure of what she’d ever done to deserve such a kind and loyal friend.

“Are you sure this whole thing isn’t just some kind of publicity stunt for your mom’s movie?” Skylar asked.

“That’s not really her style. Besides, Violet pretty much confirmed it.”

“I’m so sorry, Adelia.”

“Thanks.”

“Is this going to affect any of your projects?” Skylar asked.

“I’m not filming anything right now, but there is some press for the rom-com I shot earlier this year. Not sure what I’ll do about that.”

“Can you back out?”

“I couldn’t do that. They’re counting on me to help promote the film.”

Skylar nodded in understanding. “Maybe this will all blow over quickly.”

“This is my parents we’re talking about. They have fans all over the world.”

Skylar turned the car onto the road that led to the Schultz’s cottage on Lake Michigan. Adelia smiled as it came into view. The cedar siding had always reminded her of her family’s beach house in Nantucket. She loved it there, and she had a feeling she was going to enjoy her time here in Michigan. Maybe it would even get her mind off of everything going on with her parents.

“Are you sure you want me to leave you alone?” Skylar asked once they brought Adelia’s things inside. “I can take the day off.”

“I’ll be fine. Go to work.” She gave her a nudge toward the door. “Then go kiss that handsome fiancé of yours.”

“If you’re sure,” Skylar said with a wink.

“I’m sure.”

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