Page 31 of The Royally Broke Billionaire
Piper shook her head, confused by his reasoning. “And you’re not?”
“I’m okay,” he admitted, before adding, “But I don’t have billions of dollars to backup my good looks.”
“Ah, so there it is… You think I’m a gold-digger.” She narrowed her eyes at him, furious that she always seemed have to defend herself to him.
“No,” he shook his head vehemently. “You proved you’re not money hungry by not asking the monarchs for a dime. That was highly impressive. Most people would have taken advantage of the situation, but you didn’t.”
He sounded proud of her, so she didn’t point out that the idea of using Liam for money sickened her. The thought of doing that had never even crossed her mind, until everyone started assuming that was why she was at the palace. Since he seemed to be waiting for a response, she said quietly, “I could never do that.”
“I know, and that’s one of the many things that makes you so wonderful.”
Even though she longed to hear more about what Finn believed made her wonderful, he slipped back into the reasons why he thought she should want to be with Cole. “Even though money obviously isn’t your top concern, you have to admit that it would be nice to not ever have to worry about your financial future. Cole has more money than he could spend in ten lifetimes.”
“I suppose,” Piper shrugged her shoulders before adding, “But I’m a simple lady with modest taste. Besides, Liam is the next in line to be the king of Isle de Monsail, so I don’t think our finances will ever again be a major concern.”
“True,” Finn nodded to acknowledge that. “And I’ve noticed that Cole can be a bit of a pompous jerk, although I have to believe there’s more to him than that. Are you going to tell me that you don’t have any feelings for him?”
Piper swallowed audibly, knowing without a doubt that she was at a vital, proverbial fork in the road.
30
Piper knew she was taking too long to answer Finn’s question about her romantic feelings for Cole, but she wanted to be confident in her words before she spoke. She could sense that this conversation was of monumental importance, and she didn’t want to say the wrong thing or give Finn the wrong impression. There was no denying that Cole had some endearing qualities, but so did Finn.
Evidently growing impatient, Finn said, “Your silence speaks volumes.”
As he began to gently move to stand with Liam in his arms, she finally found her voice. “Wait.”
When Finn eased back into the chair, she forced herself to look directly into his soft, warm chocolate eyes. “You’re right… Cole does seem perfect.”
As Finn nodded briskly and moved once more to rise, she stopped him by quickly adding, “On paper.”
Those two words evidently piqued Finn’s interest because he froze in his movement to leave. Taking advantage of having his undivided attention, she went on. Ticking off great things about Cole, she said, “He’s gorgeous. He’s obviously a brilliant businessman. I’m fairly certain he has a tender side. Plus, he’s made it clear that he likes me and is open to a relationship.”
When she paused, Finn’s eyes looked sad, but he made an effort to smile. “Very well, then. I wish the two of you the best.”
Frustrated by the exasperating man, Piper switched to her other hand as she counted points. “You, on the other hand, are handsome and charming, but you can’t seem to decide if you’re interested in me, or if you can’t stand to look at me. It’s very frustrating.”
“I would imagine so,” Finn weighed in before awaiting her final verdict.
“Although my mind tells me that Cole is the logical choice, my heart just won’t accept that.” She smiled in his direction in what she hoped was a flirtatious manner. Flirting had never been her area of expertise.
His eyes sparkling with hope, Finn said, “Our silly old hearts just aren’t willing to listen to reason, are they?”
She shook her head before teasing him. “Mine sure seems determined to explore the potential for a relationship with you.”
Feeling bold, she stood up from her chair and closed the gap between them. Looking down at them, she realized how wonderful it was to see big, strong arms cradling her tiny son.
With Liam sleeping peacefully, Finn reached one arm out to take her hand within his. He gently placed her palm over his chest. “That’s how my heart feels about the idea of having a romance with you.”
She grinned as she realized his heart was trying to beat its way out of his chest almost as hard as hers was. Beyond thrilled, but needing to make sure, she asked, “No more accusing me of doing anything against the royals, right?”
“That’s right, and I’m sorry for ever having doubted you.” His warm gaze was earnest.
Nodding her acceptance of his apology, she said, “Your steadfast loyalty is what makes you an impeccable royal steward, and I bet it will make you a fantastic boyfriend, too.”
“Boyfriend? I like the sound of that.” He grinned up at her before reluctantly letting her hand go. After standing, Finn gently lowered Liam into his crib. The baby gave a stuttered sigh, but never opened his eyes.
Knowing that it was best to call it an evening at this marvelous juncture, Piper stood and walked over to her front door. When Finn joined her, she said, “We both need to get some sleep if we’re going to be at our best tomorrow, so we can save King Sebastian’s crown, get your job back, and figure out who started all of this.”
