Page 93 of Billionaire Bachelor
Ryan nods.“Exactly. We’ll be the crystal ball in his back pocket. Breakout predictions, trade optimization, weekly picks…if it boosts his bragging rights, we’re going to have his buy-in.”
I lean back in my chair, already picturing the UI in my mind.“Loop Development and Data Analytics into this. I want a demo that highlights how our models can optimize fantasy strategy based on league-specific formats. If they have any questions, have them come to me directly.”
“Will do.” Ryan nods.“Think you’ll be able to resist flexing your own fantasy stats in the process?”
“Fuck my stats.” I grin.“I’d give up my entire roster, including all my keepers, if we can close this deal.”
He laughs. “Damn. You really want this to go through huh? I’ve been trying to steal your QB for years.”
I sober. “Itneedsto go through, Ry. It’s our game-changer.”
“I know, man.” He swallows. “Regardless of what’s going on between us outside of this building, I’m damn good at my job. I’ve been here since day one, dude. I’m just as emotionally invested in this company’s growth as you are. I’ve got your back.”
“I know you do, and I appreciate it.”
Neither one of us says anything for an awkward thirty seconds.
Ryan sheepishly grabs the back of his neck, shifting in his seat. “For what it’s worth…it’s not because I don’t think you’re good enough for Rosa. I may have said some shit the other day out of anger, but I didn’t mean it. You’re the best man I know behind my dad, Logan. But she’smy little sister, man, and even though I’m pissed at you for lying—and I probably will be for a while—you’remy bro.”
I sit back, watching him carefully as he continues.
“Maybe it’s selfish on my part, but if things don’t work out between you and Rosa, no matter who’s to blame, I can’t bear the thought of there being a rift between the two of you. Having to worry about you guys being in the same place at the same time.” He drags a hand down his face. “And god forbid, if you hurt her after what she just went through with Julian, I don’t think I could forgive you for that. I’m just trying to protect what we all have with each other.”
I take a moment to let that settle and hold his gaze.
“I meant every word when I said she’sitfor me, Ry. I know that’s a tough pill to swallow, but Rosie is…it feels like I’ve been waiting a lifetime for the opportunity to love her like she deserves. Now that I finally have it, I won’t take that for granted. I’ll do whatever it takes to keep her safe. To preventanyonefrom hurting her. When you’re feeling less punchy and ready to actually listen to our reasons behind it, let me know. Maybe we can grab a beer across the street or something.” I lift a shoulder. “Believe it or not, we didn’tenjoykeeping it from you guys.”
Ryan studies me for a second longer, then nods. He stands and pauses at the door. “See you later.”
I exhale, the tightness in my chest feeling marginally looser.
“See ya,” I murmur as the door clicks shut behind him. Well, I wouldn’t exactly call that a truce, but itwasprogress.
And for now, it’ll have to do.
29
LOGAN
After a long,grueling day, all I want to do is kick back with Rosie. But she had to work late too, so now I’m just waiting. The good news is that with everything out in the open now, she’s heading over here as soon as she wraps up at the office.
I glance around my apartment, trying to see it the way Rosie will, and I’m starting to second-guess my invitation. Maybe I should’ve picked up some throw pillows. Or a candle. Anything to make the place feel less like a hotel and more like a home. I’ve never minded it before. It’s modern and gets the job done. But now I’m worried she won’t be comfortable here. The last thing I want is for my place to remind her of the one she shared with Julian.
Sure, the condo’s functional. It has plenty of space, and everything’s been professionally decorated in fifty shades of greige. But Rosie’s loft is packed with character. It may be cramped, but it’s also colorful and charming and always smells like the tropics or freshly baked cookies. Mine feels cavernous by comparison and smells like purified air mixed with hundred-dollar bills.
At least I’ve got one redeeming quality: the rooftop terrace. It’s a shared space between the two penthouse units, with sprawling cityviews, a lap pool, and an oversized hot tub. On the other end, there’s a large seating area and a gas fire pit. The roof is a great space to throw a party—something Ryan and I have definitely taken advantage of—but it’s just as good when you want a quiet place to chill with someone special. Rosie’s been up there before, but never as my date.
Tonight, I’m changing that.
I take the private stairwell up to the top and do one final sweep, making sure everything’s set. Prosecco is chilling, the fire pit’s ready to go, and the lighting is just soft enough to set the mood.
My phone buzzes with a text from Rosie.
Rosie: Just parked.
I smile as I type my reply.
Me: See you in a few.
