Page 103 of The Billionaire's Teacher

“We could come to you.” The General’s no-nonsense voice made it sound like a done deal. “I’ll look for tickets this afternoon.”

“I’ll send the plane. Let me know when you want to leave and I’ll make arrangements.” That was definitely easier. Mom and The General never asked—unlike Dad—so it was nice to be able to do something. And them coming here definitely was easier than trying to leave the shop again right now. “You can stay at my place. You know I have the whole basement suite. You’ll have privacy for downtime.”

“All right. I’ve always enjoyed your home, but I didn’t want to presume. We’ll chat and get back to you with dates. How long are you in town, Sunshine honey?”

I winced. Mom loved to call people dear and honey. I wasn’t sure if Sunshine was going to be okay with it. It could come across as patronizing, but Mom never meant it that way.

“I haven’t decided yet. I have flexibility in my schedule. So I’ll be sure to stay long enough to spend a few days with the two of you.” She twisted her fingers in her lap.

“Text me dates, Mom. We need to go. Love you.”

“Love you too, honey. I’m so excited! Thanks for calling to let us know. Bye now.”

The call ended and I looked over. “Do I need to apologize?”

“No.” She smiled and shook her head. “I forgot to mention I’m not great with parents.”

I laughed. “You did fine. Let’s go get you a ring.”

Sunshine leaned over and pressed her lips to mine. I cupped her cheek in my hands and dove in. It was several minutes before we got around to hitting the road.

I don’t think either of us minded.

26

SUNSHINE

“It’s good to have you home.” Zee eyed me from behind the desk. “Although, is this still home?”

I smiled slightly. “It’ll always sort of be home.”

“You know what I mean.”

“I do. And no. I told you.”

Zee made a “come here” gesture with her fingers. “Let me see that ring.”

“I think you’ll approve.” I laughed as I crossed the space between us and held out my left hand to show off the wide band of inset stones. There were some diamonds, Wes had won there, but there were also sapphires. The blue and white sparkle made me grin every time I saw it.

“He has good taste.” Zee squeezed my hand. “I’m happy for you. And proud of you. And a little sad for me.”

“I’ll see you, Zee. He owns an island.” I rolled my eyes. I still couldn’t wrap my head around the idea of being married to someone who owned a whole island. Or a business, for that matter. I’d been content to work for other people. Luca had always wanted us to go out on our own, and I would have with him. Now, I guessed I was doing that with Wes.

Zee nodded. “You’ll be busy. Living up in the States, flying down to dive.”

“I’ll make a point of visiting.” I drew an X over my heart. “You can come up, too. You know that right?”

“No thank you. I like it right here. Maybe you can talk me into your island, when you get the guest houses with indoor plumbing set up.”

I chuckled. “Got it. Creature comforts only. Thank you, Zee. For everything. I’m not sure I would have been brave enough to give him a shot without you.”

“Girl, I know you wouldn’t. How hard did I have to kick you to get you to call him? And then you emailed instead? Pfft.” She shook her head. “You nearly ruined it. Good thing for you he has a smart head on his shoulders.”

“Yes. He does.” I leaned forward and kissed her cheek. “You approve?”

“He makes you happy. So of course I do.” Zee patted my hand. “Now you get your ugly boat out of my slip and go back to your cottage. What will you do with it?”

I sighed. “Not sure yet. Maybe rent it. I don’t think I can sell it. Not yet.”

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