Page 38 of The Billionaire's Heart

“It’s one of the perks.”

“I see.”

I can’t tell if she’s disappointed in that, so I change the subject. “Mrs. Wilcox has set up a calendar for you listing all the social engagements that we’ll need to attend. IT will be here first thing in the morning to get you all set up with your new phone and new laptop.”

“New laptop and phone?”

“Can’t run a business without a laptop, right? And you can’t be answering your phone with all the paparazzi calling.”

She nods in realization. “Got it. Make sure to bill Magical Moments for the equipment and labor, okay?”

Huh? She wants to pay me? That’s new. “Um, it’s fine. Consider it a gift.” I dismiss her idea of billing her. “Also, my personal shopper will be by afterwards to get you all set up with a wardrobe for all the events and gatherings.”

“New clothes.” She sighs. “How many engagements are we scheduled for?”

“A lot. I’m rarely home. Actually, this is the longest stretch of time I’ve been home in years.”

“What? We’ve not even been here for twenty-four hours!”

“I know. My life is demanding. Oh, that reminds me, later this week I need to go to the Bahamas regarding a ratherenormous deal I’m working on. You’re more than welcome to come with me, if you’d like.”

“Bahamas? Like the country?”

I laugh, “Yes, like the country. It’s only an hour by plane, four if we took a ferry, but we’ll be flying.”

“Don’t laugh at me. Until I met you, the farthest I’ve gone is from Knoxville to Florida and now to Washington, D.C.” She’s defensive. “Anyway, I can’t go.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t have a passport. Can’t leave the country without one; last I checked.” Her sass is showing through, and I love that she puts me through my paces. Most people I meet just want to agree with everything I say.

“We can get you a passport before we leave.”

She doesn’t answer, but looks curiously at me. “What’s the deal about?”

“I’m buying some islands to set up a resort and better living conditions for the staff that will work there.”

“You’re buyingislands? As in more than one?”

I’m confused, “Yes, islands. Why are you looking at me like that? Stop it.”

“People just don’t go out and buy an island, never mind more than one. It just sounds so strange to me, that’s all.”

I shrug my shoulders. “Not to me.”

“I suppose it wouldn’t.” She takes a deep breath. “Okay, is that all? The NDA, clothes, electronics, islands, parties, and the passport? Anything else?”

Shaking my head, “No, I think that’s it. Ready for dinner? I think Paula cooked us up some Thai. Do you like Thai food?”

Mia holds up her hand in a stop sign motion. “Wait. You’re not the only one with terms on your list.” She opens up her notebook. “Have a seat, Mr. Gallo. Now, we negotiate.”

I have to hide the smile that tries to breakthrough.

This is my favorite part.

Chapter 19

Mia