Page 83 of My Big, Fat, Accidental Billionaire Husband

“Tatiana has an exceptional eye for numbers,” Dom interjects, his voice warm with something that sounds remarkably like pride. “Her insights on the financial projections for Serenity Shores have been invaluable. Her business administration background gives her a unique perspective on balancing sustainability with profitability. Something I’ve come to rely on.”

Wait, what? Is that what he really thinks of my contributions?

Or is it just part of the act?

The latter, most likely.

Mr. Chung’s eyebrows lift slightly. “Is that so? I wasn’t aware you were so involved in the project, Mrs. Rossi.”

Oh good lord, he’s testing both of us now.

“It’s been a natural evolution,” I say, finding my footing. “Dom’s vision for environmentally responsible luxury resonated with me from our first conversations about it. The challenge is making sure the sustainability elements don’t compromise the resort’s financial viability.”

Dom squeezes my waist gently, a silent signal of approval.

“And what about our concerns from Monday?” Mr. Chung asks, his eyes sharp on Dom. “The... familial issues?”

Familial issues? What the hell happened at that lunch?

Dom’s body tenses, but his voice remains steady. “Being addressed as we speak. Nothing that will impact the project timeline or viability.”

“I see,” Mr. Chung says, his attention swinging back to me. “And what of your own future, Mrs. Rossi? A career woman like yourself, suddenly thrust into the role of billionaire’s wife... how do you see your place in five years? Still working for Christopher while supporting your husband’s projects? Or perhaps starting a family?”

Another test. Or more likely, a trap. I can practically feel Camilla’s eyes boring into my back from across the room.

Something shifts inside me. Maybe it’s the two glasses of champagne, or maybe it’s the way Dom’s thumb is now tracing small circles against my back, but suddenly I’m tired of performing. So instead, I let a version of the truth slip through.

“Honestly, Mr. Chung,” I say, meeting his gaze directly, “I never expected to find myself here. My plans didn’t include marrying anyone, let alone someone like Dom.”

I feel Dom stiffen beside me, but I continue.

“But life has a funny way of surprising you. What I’ve discovered is that the right partnership doesn’t diminish your individual ambitions. It expands your possibilities.”

I glance up at Dom, surprised by the emotion behind my own words.

“So as for five years from now? I see myself still proving my worth on my own terms. Still balancing spreadsheets and sustainability metrics. Still challenging this man when he needs it.” I smile, genuine warmth creeping in despite my best efforts. “And probably still arguing about whether his architectural designs are financially feasible, even if they are breathtaking. All while juggling a family.”

Something flickers in Dom’s eyes. Surprise, perhaps. Or recognition. Maybe even... longing.

“She keeps me honest,” he says softly, his gaze lingering on mine a beat too long before turning back to Mr. Chung. “Always has. Even from the beginning.”

Mr. Chung studies us both, something shifting in his expression. “Interesting,” he murmurs. “Very interesting.”

His wife speaks for the first time. “You know, honesty in a partnership is everything. Even when it’s uncomfortable.”

Is she... giving us relationship advice? Or is this some weird investor code language?

“I couldn’t agree more,” Dom replies, and for a moment, I swear I feel his grip on me tighten. Not possessively, but almost... protectively.

“Well,” Mr. Chung says after a moment, “I believe we’ve taken enough of your time at what should be a celebratory evening. We look forward to finalizing our discussion next week, Dominic.”

They drift away, leaving us standing in a strange bubble of tension and something else I can’t quite name.

“What happened at that lunch?” I whisper, turning to face Dom.

His expression clouds. “Later. Not here.”

“Dom—”

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