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“Both. I have more money than you could spend in five lifetimes. Purchase whatever you want, darling.”
She taps it against the counter and flips it around. “A month ago, I’d have said this would fix everything. I realize that’s not true.”
“Over the years, many people have said they’d be happy if they had my money. It doesn’t solve the problems here.” I pat my heart.
She sighs. “I’m learning that.”
“What can I do to help?” I ask, smoothing my hand over the page and placing the ball of my pen where I left off.
“Help me repair a broken heart.” She finishes the rest of her coffee.
“Ahh, onlytimecan do that.” I meet her gaze. “But I’m working on it. Trying to convince someone they’re worthy first.”
“Well.Good luck,” she tells me with a smile.
It’s the anti-love coming out to play, the self-doubt her past relationships have created.
“Thanks. I’ll fucking need it.”
25
LEXI
As the plane touches down on the private runway, I feel sick.
“Are you okay?” Easton asks, interlocking his fingers with mine and kissing my knuckles.
“I’m nervous. It’s not something I experience often.”
“It’s home though. Your stomping grounds.”
“It is. But I left for a reason, and I had something to prove. Now, I’m back to flaunt my man?” I shake my head. “It seemsridiculous.”
“You’re not flaunting anything. I’m meeting your family before I propose. I’ll ask your mother and brothers for permission and get to know those closest to you.”
I search his face. “Do you have a death wish?”
“Some would say I do. But also, it’s Southern tradition, isn’t it?” He chuckles.
“Yes. Of course.”
“I want to give you a fullten out of fiveexperience, considering you’re providing that for me.”
I shake my head, but I’m smiling. I think about my dad, how he’d have adored Easton and his love for vintage cars. Dad probably would’ve threatened him to treat his little girl right.Not that Easton even needs the warning. He’s been the perfect gentleman—other than him getting me fired, but I’ve forgiven him for that.
“I just want people to like you. What if this makes things worse?”
“They’llloveme. Believe it or not, I can be charming. Together, we’re unstoppable, babe.” He laughs. “Oh, I almost forgot to mention that Weston has set up a private meeting with Mayor Martinez at the end of the week.”
“Why?” My mouth falls open.
“I’ve decided to make a generous donation to Valentine for you, my darling. We’re discussing where the funds will be assigned. I’d love for you to help with the decision-making, unless you’d prefer not to be involved.”
I blink at him in disbelief. “Easton, that’s amazing, but you don’t have to do that.”
“I know. However, it’s being done anonymously, so no unwanted attention is brought to us or you.”
“Right.” I chuckle. “They’ll know it was you after we visit.”