Page 82 of Boss of Attraction

Sam’s jaw dropped, and her eyes went wide. “That’s ridiculous! You’ve never mentioned his money. Ever.”

I nodded. “I know, but since I’m driving his Escalade and I’m younger, they assumed I’m a gold digger. Plus, he got me this for Christmas.” I pulled back my sleeve to reveal the watch on my wrist.

Sam gasped. “He got you a Rolex? Isn’t that like ten thousand dollars?”

“How do you know how much it costs?” I questioned.

“Ballpark, but damn.” She inspected it closely.

“You didn’t ask him to buy you this watch, did you?” Mom asked.

I shook my head. “Of course not, but it’s one more reason for them to think I just want his money.”

Mom sat on my other side and wrapped her arms around me, pulling me into a comforting hug. “Don’t listen to them. You know what’s in your heart.”

The accusations still stung because how would Sean and I ever be okay if his kids didn’t approve?

“They just don’t understand,” I murmured.

“It sounds to me like they want his money and are afraid you’re going to take it instead,” Sam stated.

“It would be theirs to take,” I said. “But no matter what, I’m not sure they’ll ever trust me, and what if Sean believes them?”

Mom patted my knee. “If you’re meant to be together, then you two will overcome this.”

“And if we’re not?”

“Then he isn’t the one.” Mom glanced at the beautifully wrapped presents under the tree, a warm smile tugging at her lips. “But how about something that will cheer you up? Are you ready to open presents?”

“Yeah, sure.” I forced a smile as I watched Mom stand and move toward the tree in the corner of the living room. She’d made the trip to see me for Christmas, so the least I could do would be to make her holiday a good one.

And that was what happened. We opened presents, ate the delicious food she prepared, and fired up another Christmas movie.

Later that evening, as I was getting out of the shower, my phone dinged with a text:

Sorry about today. I hope you’re doing okay. I’m not sure what to make of everything and I just need some time. Hope you understand

I stared at the text, not sure what to make of it. Was it a breakup text or did he still want to see me while he figured things out?

My hands slightly shook as I texted back:

Time away from me?

It’s not exactly what I want but I need to consider my children and their feelings

Yeah but what they said isn’t true. I don’t want your money

I know that

Do you?

After I hit send, I wanted to take it back. I knew it was coming off like I was snapping at him, but I couldn’t help it. The entire situation still stung.

I do

But with everything, like I said, I just need some time to think

Good thing we aren’t in the office for a week then