Page 41 of BillionHeir
“Yeah, I think I probably was, now that I look back on it. I was fortunate to have them to look up to. If I end up with even half of what they had, I will consider myself lucky.”
“Aw, come on. You haven’t done all that bad for yourself, have you?”
“They had the one thing that has eluded me all these years.”
“What is that?”
“True love.”
* * *
Later that afternoon, Chloe left the house to do a little sightseeing and shopping. She was reluctant to go, but I insisted. She has barely had a moment to herself since I convinced her tocome here with me. I am well aware that I am not the easiest person to deal with, and everyone deserves a break from work now and then.
My recent conversations with Ethan and Chloe have really made me think. I now know exactly what I want and who I want it from.
I want to change the relationship that Chloe and I have.
Drastically.
Now that I have some time to talk without her overhearing, I call Ethan back.
“I have got a meeting in twenty minutes with Benton. What can I do for you?” he asks after we exchange greetings.
“I need some help.”
I can hear some papers shuffling in the background. I am sure I caught him reviewing the file on the company we are trying to acquire. I can almost hear the gears turning in his head as he mentally shifts his focus.
“What do you need?”
“I want to set something up here. An expensive dinner, flowers, candles, the works. Can you manage that?”
Ethan is quiet for a few seconds before he answers. “Of course. That won’t be a problem at all. Who is the lucky lady?”
“Chloe.”
“Your nurse?” he asks, his tone careful.
“What other Chloe is there, Ethan?”
“Right,” he says, taking a deep breath before regrouping. “So, you probably don’t want her help in setting all of this up then?”
“That would be correct. I will keep her busy. If you can make the magic happen without us, that would be perfect.”
“That won’t be a problem. Consider it done.”
I have no doubt that Ethan will prepare one hell of an evening for us. I would do it myself if I had two arms and the time. But this way, Chloe will have no idea what is coming.
“Thanks. Chloe is going to need something . . .niceto wear as well.”
“Understood. But Max?” Ethan says hesitantly.
“Yes?”
“Are you sure this is a good idea? Taking your nurse on a date, I mean. I am sorry if I am being too forward, but I have to ask.”
I can tell that it has taken Ethan a great deal of courage to ask me that question. It is true that I don’t have many people in my life who are willing to question my decisions. I don’t usually have to explain myself to anyone, but in this case, I will indulge the man.
“When you know, you know.” That is all the explanation I can give him because that is all I can really say about it myself. “I can’t put my finger on it just yet, but there is something different about this one, Ethan.”
