The Billionaire's Offer

Chapter 14

Emma

Monday morning arrives quickly, announcing the start of another week. I'm still processing the fact Asher and I slept together, but I must confess, it was mind-blowing. We couldn't keep our hands from each other and I've never felt so cherished.

My heart is brimming with joy, and a constant smile graces my lips, refusing to let go. I have no idea what we're doing or how we're doing it. I just know we're getting married, and we spent a perfect night together.

As I get ready for work, I can't help but glance at my phone, a silly grin dancing on my face when I see a text from Asher.

ASHER: I'm booking a weekend getaway for us as soon as these meetings are over.

ME: For us, huh?

ASHER: Are you really turning down a weekend in Vegas?

ME: Vegas? Aren't you trying to upgrade your image?

ASHER: What's wrong with having some fun with your fiancé?

ME: Right! But for now, we have to be responsible adults and get to work.

ASHER: You're no fun, Em.

ME: I remember you having lots of fun with me last Friday.

ASHER: Touché! Let's have a repeat later today. I want to show you something.

ME: Does that line ever work for you?

ASHER: Ouch! I'll pick you up after work. Does 6 pm work for you?

ME: Yeah, text me when you arrive.

ASHER: See you later, gorgeous. Have a great day!

ME: You too! Good luck with your meeting.

Later today, the board will decide whether to grant Asher a trial period. He spent the weekend locked in meetings, preparing himself, although our frequent texting suggests his focus might have wavered.

Deep down, I know it was his way of showing he'd rather be with me than be working, and it filled my heart with a calm, warm feeling.

However, thoughts of my father approaching me at the gala last Friday still linger in the back of my mind. It's been a long time since we've actually talked, and something tells me he may try to exploit my marriage with Asher to his advantage. A part of me wants to muster the courage to confront him directly, but the frightened little girl within me still holds me back paralyzed in fear.

As I pull up to the rented office that Max arranged for us while our shelter is being rebuilt, I take a deep breath and push aside these concerns. I have a long day ahead, and it begins with announcing my engagement to everyone.

I'm wearing Asher's ring to work for the first time, apart from the gala, and it feels like a ton of bricks on my finger. His team dropped an official press release last Friday, announcing our upcoming wedding in a month. And what did I do? I went straight home and ignored the string of messages on my phone.

But now I'll have to face a gathering of nearly twenty people, all eager to hear about the latest developments in my life.

Melisa Pearson, our case manager and my closest friend, intercepts me before I can reach the office.

"Are you kidding me?" She holds my hand, her eyes widening when she spots my ring.

"I know." I close my eyes, cheeks flushing. "I promise I'll explain everything over lunch."

"Oh, you'd better." Mel raises her eyebrows. "You were fortunate that I spent the weekend at my parents' place, three hours away, or I would've knocked on your door the moment I saw the pictures."