The Billionaire's Offer

Chapter 29

Asher

The morning sun filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room as I watch Emma sleep peacefully beside me.

God, how drastically my life has changed in such a short span of time. Taking the helm of my family's business and navigating the intricate world of corporate negotiations— it's a far cry from the carefree days of taking photos around the globe.

And yet, as I look at Emma's serene expression, I realize that perhaps this newfound stability isn't so bad after all.

I spent the night making love to the woman I love and it couldn't have been more perfect. Feeling her warmth against me was a reminder of the deep connection we share. For the first time in a long time, I had my Emma back and I couldn't get enough of her.

As soon as we got home yesterday, she wanted to talk, delve into the depths of our relationship, and confront the demons that lurk in the shadows.

We didn't, though.

As much as I've been craving her honesty and openness, yesterday's celebration at the shelter was meant to be a joyous occasion, a testament to Emma's resilience and strength. Bringing up painful memories would only taint the joy of the moment.

As she stirs beside me, I lean down to press a tender kiss to her forehead, her sleepy murmur pulling me from my thoughts. "Em..." I whisper softly, brushing a lock of hair from her face.

"Hmmm..." she murmurs, her arms instinctively wrapping around me.

I smile, savoring the warmth of her embrace. "I have an early meeting," I explain, reluctant to leave the cocoon of our bed.

"But it's Saturday morning," she protests, her voice heavy with sleep.

I nod, guilt gnawing at me. "I know, but this merger with that Japanese company is in its final stages. I can't afford to miss it."

Her disappointment is palpable, and I hate myself for being the cause of it. "When will you be home?" she asks, her eyes searching mine.

I sigh, the weight of my obligations pressing down on me. "I'll probably spend the whole day at the office," I admit, offering her an apologetic smile.

Her expression softens, and she reaches out to cup my cheek. "It's okay," she says, her voice tinged with resignation.

"Hey..." I cup her cheek. "I want to be one hundred percent here for our talk, okay? Let me get these meetings out of the way, and then it's just us, I promise."

She bites her lower lips nervously, and I can see some shadows clouding her mind. "I'm scared you'll hate me after we talk," she admits, her voice barely above a whisper.

I silence her with a kiss, pouring all the love and reassurance I can muster into the gesture. "Get one thing through your head, Em," I say firmly, my forehead resting against hers. "I could never, ever hate you."

Tears shimmer in her eyes as she pulls me into a tight embrace, and my heart swells with love for this woman who means everything to me. "I love you," she whispers,

"I love you too," I murmur against her neck.

Reluctantly, I peel myself away from her embrace, steeling myself for the day ahead.

"I'll cook us some dinner," she offers, a faint smile playing on her lips. "Text me when you're leaving the office."

"Sounds like a plan." I nod, pressing a final kiss to her forehead before forcing myself to get out of bed.

*****

The clinking of glasses and the murmurs of a business conversation surround me as I sit in the plush armchair of the hotel restaurant I've been in for the last few hours.