Beauty and the Billionaire

“Usually I’d say no to a handout, but when it comes to my grams, I’ll put my pride aside.”

“It’s not a handout, Fawn. I’ve been meaning to give you your credit cards and such.” She starts to talk, but I keep going. “We’re married, and I think part of that deal is you get to live very comfy. Spend the money. Think of this as a job.” As much as I hated to say the last part, I too will put my pride away for Fawn. I don’t want her worrying about money or her grandmother.

“Okay. Thank you for everything you’ve done already.”

“Anything for you.” I slip my hand into hers. This is the first time that she makes the effort first by tangling her fingers with mine instead of trying to push me away. It’s another step forward, and I won't stop until I’m home.

8

FAWN

“Yours is so pretty,” Ace says, looking over at my small canvas. One of the first things I got with my new credit card were a few things for Ace. I wanted to be able to fill our days with activities. At least until he starts kindergarten. I’d drawn roses. I’ve become a little obsessed with the rose garden here.

“Yours is cute.” I think he was trying to draw the kittens. They both checked out in good health. It looks as though we now have two boy kittens permanently.

“I’m going to give it to Ro. It’s Mickey and Minnie Mouse.”

“I see that.” I’ll have to give Roman a heads up about the picture. I drop my brush into the water.

“Are you going to give yours to him too?” He stares up at me with those big eyes. He looks so much like Roman. It makes me wonder what a little girl with his genes would look like.

“I suppose.”

“I’d love to have it,” Roman says, striding into the library where I have us set up at one of the giant tables. “I always know where to find you. If you’re not in the library, you’re in the rose garden.”

“Keeping track of me?”

“Always.” I still when he leans down and drops a kiss on the top of my head. “I’ll have them framed for my office.”

Roman is turning out so differently than I thought he would be. Sometimes he can be a little cold and short with the things he says, but ninety-nine percent of the time he’s sweet. At least that’s how it’s been for the last week. Every morning and night he still kisses me, but nothing more. It leaves my body on edge, wanting more.

All of this is really messing with my head. Everything he did for Grams without batting an eye has softened me towards him. The way he comforted me meant so much to me. We’ve fallen into a rhythm now. We even read Ace a book together the other night. It all feels so real. I can’t find a reason not to like him. I even noticed that he started making an effort to not work so much.

Except for today. He didn't come to lunch. I’d be lying to myself if I didn't admit I was disappointed. And I may have gotten a bit angry too. I shouldn’t have. It was silly. He’s wearing me down. In fact, if it weren't for the whole blackmail thing, I would probably have dated him if only he would have asked.

That’s a lie. I was too busy working nonstop. I was always trying to make ends meet. My father always makes it harder for me. He hasn't called to check on me once. I’m really seeing his true colors. So many things I overlooked over the years are now smacking me dead in my face. There is no denying what type of man he is after this arrangement.

If anything, Roman has made my life a hell of a lot easier. I miss a few of the kids at the daycare, but I don’t miss the diner or working at the dry cleaners. I haven't slept this well in years. Or eaten so much.

“I think it’s time for your lesson,” Roman reminds Ace.

“I’ve got this. You can go.” He leans over and kisses me on the cheek, warming my heart before he takes off. I know I’ve already fallen for Ace.

“Can I show you something?” Roman asks as he helps me clean up.

“Sure.” My stomach flutters when he steps close, raising his hand. I start to close my eyes, but he swipes my cheek.

“Paint.”

“Right.” I flush.

“Also this.” He kisses me. He groans into my mouth. The sound always turns me on. I feel sexy when he does it. His hard cock presses into my stomach as my whole body starts to fill with heat. When we break apart, I’m breathless and a little dazed. So much so I don’t protest when he takes my hand.