Page 223 of Share with Me

“Iamserious. I think that Ivan is a keeper. And I can’t believe you beat me again.”

“What you taught me, Dad.”

“We should play chess more often. Remember we used to play when you were little?”

“In this very room.” Brinley looked around. The family room hadn’t changed a bit, except for the furniture that Mom cycled out every year or so. Outside, April was bright and lovely and warming up. Pretty soon it would be time to go swimming. “Time, isn’t it, Dad? Always time.”

Dad pushed back from the chessboard. “I’m beginning to like this Ivan.”

“Why? He’s stubborn.”

“He’s self-made.”

“Who in the world would turn down a chance to share nine billion dollars?” Brinley knew the answer before the entire question left her mouth. Ivan. Ivan would if only because he wanted to play his violin. Someone else could worry about the finances.

“And a half, Brin. Stocks went up yesterday.”

Brinley threw up her arms. “See what I mean?”

“He’s going to have to learn it the hard way. Did you show him the warehouse?”

“Not yet. If I did, then this prenup might make sense.”

“Would it?”

Brinley shrugged. “He wants to show me that he can hold his own.”

“Take care of it, Brinley Brin.”

“I will, Dad. I’m not signing it.”

“Nine billion dollars say you should, Brin.”

“It’s a marriage, not a business.”

“It could be his dignity we’re talking about.”

“He’s been working on a budget. I’ve told him we’re not setting a wedding date until he gets his finances in order.”

“Brin.”

“What, Dad?”

“What does that say about your love for him if you hold your wedding day hostage?”

Brinley paused. “I don’t want our marriage to start off with unpaid debts from day one. What will we teach our children?”

“Even if he sets up a budget, he still needs to follow through.”

“Right. His friend Matt is helping him.”

“Good friends are hard to find.”

“What does Pastor Gonzalez say about this budget prerequisite?”

“He was amused, but thought it’s a very practical idea.”

“I do too, Brin. If this plan of yours ends up getting the wedding day moved, your mom would be thrilled to death. In fact, you know she’d like nothing better than for you to postpone your wedding until after Zoe’s baby is born. She can only handle one thing at a time, you know.”

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