The Billionaires's Temptation (Book 1)

21. Cooking up trust

Logan

Today, like every other day, had been an overwhelming experience for me. Being a businessman in a competitive industry is no easy task. I had just finished a meeting with a client and was planning to take a brief moment of rest before my next appointment. A knock interrupted my thoughts, followed by Abigail, making her way towards my desk.

I took a deep breath. "Abigail, could we take a short break? Please bring me a cup of coffee."

"Of course, Sir," she replied and promptly left the office. I loosened my tie and leaned back, letting my head rest. My mind wandered to Olivia. I wondered what she was up to at the moment. I never anticipated that our lives would become entwined like this, but in some ways, I was relieved that it hadn't tarnished my reputation. At least, not yet.

"Young man," Brian waltzed into my office, his legs carrying him with a sense of purpose.

"You always know how to appear unannounced," I said, setting down the pen that seemed to have found its way into my hand on the table.

"You should be accustomed to my 'unannounced appearances' by now," he retorted, settling into the visitor's seat.

I reached for the telephone. "Abigail, make it two, please."

"So, how are you, young man?" Brian inquired, a hint of teasing evident in his voice. Brian always had one or two things to tease me about.

"Just say what's on your mind," I urged, my eyes fixed on him.

He glanced around nervously. "Do I have something on my mind? Yes, maybe I do."

I shot him a glare. "Anyone who knows Brian Ronald would testify to that. So, how has work been lately? You haven't been giving me updates."

Brian leaned forward, a serious expression on his face. "Work has been going well. But let's get straight to why I'm here. You're right, I do have something on my mind. How is Olivia?"

Ah, Olivia.

"I suppose she's doing fine," I replied, attempting to distract myself by organizing the papers on my desk.

"You suppose? What does that mean exactly?"

"It means exactly what it implies. She's still finding her place within the family."

The door swung open, and Abigail entered with two cups of coffee. "Thank you, Abigail," I said appreciatively, but I couldn't help but notice the playful wink Brian gave her.

"Are you hitting on my secretary?" I asked, raising an eyebrow.

Brian chuckled. "No, just expressing my gratitude. Now, let's get back to our discussion." He took a sip from his coffee, and I followed suit.

"I don't know, Brian. Olivia seems nice. From the brief time we've spent together these past two days, she strikes me as someone who would be committed."

"And you want to be committed?" I hesitated, unsure of how to answer.

Before I could respond, my mobile phone rang, cutting off our conversation. I glanced at the screen and then turned it over to Brian. "It's Olivia," I informed him.

An amused smile played on Brian's lips. "Husband duty calls," he teased.

I pressed the accept button and held the phone to my ear. "Hello," I started.

"Logan, are you still at work?" Olivia's voice held a touch of eagerness.

"Yes, why?" I asked, curious as to what she had in mind.

There was a rustling sound from the other end before she spoke. "I was wondering if you could get me something."

"And what might that be?" I inquired, my curiosity piqued.