Page 92 of Grumpy Boss of the Year

“It’s my dad,” she says. “Can we pause for a second? I need to take this.”

I stare at her for a couple of seconds and nod.

Fuck! What does he want now?

Chapter Twenty-One

Elisabetta

My father always has the worst timing, but I knew I had to take it, especially seeing as I was out of the country.

“Hey, Dad. What’s going on?” I say as I answer the phone, still staring at Liam, who looks slightly somber. I’m still confused as hell. I don’t understand what’s going on.

Lucinda is his assistant? Then why did he need a new one? Why did he say they all quit? Something isn’t adding up.

“Darling, I’m so glad that you answered. I have some news.”

“Yeah? What’s the news?”

“Are you sitting?”

“No, I’m not sitting. I’m standing because I’m on a business trip with my boss and…”

“You mean with that Liam Gallagher?” my father says.

“Yeah, we’re in Trinidad and Tobago. He’s trying to buy some hotels or something in the Caribbean. I’m not really sure, but what is it, Dad?”

“I have good news for you.”

“Okay, what’s the good news?” I give Liam a hopeful smile. Maybe everything’s off. Maybe my dad’s found the money.

“I have found a fiancé for you.”

“What? What do you mean?”

“There’s a man that I’ve been able to come to an agreement with, and let’s just say, he wants to marry you, and I am setting up the wedding as we speak.”

My face goes white, and all the blood leaves my body.

“Dad, who is this? I just don’t understand. I…”

“All will be revealed in due time. Unfortunately, I cannot say more at this time. Just know that this is for your benefit.”

“How is this for my benefit, Dad? It’s you who’s broke, not me. I don’t even…” I pause. I don’t want to shout at my father, and I notice that the people in the airport are staring at me.

Liam touches my shoulder, and I look up at him with sad eyes. He’s so gorgeous and so understanding, yet he doesn’t know what it’s like to be in this situation. To have to want to protect your family and do what’s right for them when it means losing your whole self.

“Darling, trust me when I say if I had any other options, I would take them, but…”

“It’s fine, Dad. I understand. You’ve been there for me my entire life, you know. I know it was hard for you as a single dad, and I just want to thank you for everything you’ve done for me.”

I can hear Liam gasping, and I frown. He looks pissed off, and I don’t know why.

“I know, darling. It’s been hard for both of us, but we’ll get by; we always do.”

“Dad, we’re about to speak to immigration. Can I call you back? They’re giving me a dirty look.”

“Of course, darling. Just make sure the next time you call me, you’re by yourself, okay?”

---