Page 176 of My Big, Fat, Accidental Billionaire Husband

Hope blossoms across his face, transforming his features. “My place?”

I shake my head. “Neutral territory. I’ll text you the address.”

“Tatiana,” he says as I turn to leave. “Thank you. For this chance.”

I pause, looking back at him... this beautiful, damaged man who broke my heart and is now trying to piece it back together.

“Don’t make me regret it,” I tell him, then walk away before I can change my mind.

Eight hours later,I’m pacing my apartment, second-guessing everything from my decision to see Dom again to my choice of outfit.

Black dress? Too formal. Jeans? Too casual. Hazmat suit to protect myself from emotional contamination? Sadly not in my closet.

I finally settle on dark jeans and a silky cream blouse that makes me feel both confident and comfortable. I’ve texted Dom the address of a small, upscale restaurant near Central Park. It’s public enough to feel safe, private enough for an honest conversation.

Just as I’m applying a final touch of lipstick, my phone buzzes with a text from Sabrina:Good luck tonight. Don’t do anything I wouldn’t do. Actually, scratch that. My judgment is questionable at best. Love you xo

I smile despite my nerves.I’ll try not to get temp-married again. At least not tonight.

The restaurant is quiet when I arrive, just as I’d hoped. I’ve requested a corner table, and Dom is already there, standing when he sees me approach. He’s wearing a charcoal suit with a crisp white shirt, open at the collar. Casual for him, which means he’s only slightly more dressed up than the average CEO.

I haven’t seen any sign of his security detail tonight. But that probably means they’re making an effort to blend into the background more than usual.

“You look beautiful,” he says simply.

“Thanks.” I slide into my seat, trying to ignore the flutter in my stomach. “You look pretty hot yourself. “

The waiter brings menus and takes our drink orders. Pinot noir for me, scotch for Dom.

And then we’re alone again, the candlelight casting soft shadows between us.

“I reviewed your proposal,” I tell him after a moment. “It’s... impressive. And generous.”

“It’s fair,” he corrects. “You’ve earned it. Your insight on the supplier issue alone saved millions.”

“Yes, but—” I take a breath. “I don’t want you to think I’m accepting you back because of this business opportunity.”

“That’s not why I offered it.” He leans forward, his gaze intense. “The offer stands regardless of what happens between us personally. I need you to believe that.”

Our drinks arrive, saving me from having to respond immediately. I take a generous sip of wine, letting the rich flavor coat my tongue.

“I believe you,” I finally say. “But here’s the thing, Dom. I’m not just worried about what happened with Nico. I’m worried about your pattern. You push me away, you pull me close. You’re hot, then you’re cold. How do I know you won’t panic and shut down the next time things get too real?”

He considers this, swirling his scotch thoughtfully. “Fair question. I can’t promise I won’t ever have moments of fear or doubt. But I can promise that I’m starting therapy. I can also promise that I’m learning to talk about those feelings instead of acting on them impulsively. And I can promise that I’ll never, ever use you as a pawn again.”

“You’re starting therapy?” I can’t hide my surprise.

“That’s the plan.” He nods. “I’m trying to get Nico to join me for joint sessions as well.”

Something warm unfurls in my chest. That’s more commitment to change than my ex ever showed.

Maybe he really does mean it this time.

“I appreciate your honesty,” I tell him. “And the effort you’re making.”

“I’m trying, Tatiana.” His voice drops, intimate despite our public setting. “I’ve never tried this hard at anything that wasn’t business-related.”

We order dinner. Sea bass for me, steak for him. The conversation shifts to lighter territory. He tells me about the dirty Italian songs he sung with Nico after their fight. I share stories from my week back at work, including Christopher’s unexpectedly profound relationship advice.

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