The Renegade Billionaire

“Nonsense. Except to worry everyone, the teen did no harm.”

“Not everyone is as forgiving as you.”

As Andrea had already come to find out, Stavros was no ordinary man.

“I’ve brought you two together to get your opinion about continuing the tours to the quarry. Another incident like this one might not turn out so well next time.” He eyed Stavros. “Would you prefer we cancel future tours? It’s up to you.”

“I’m afraid it won’t be up to me any longer,” Stavros stated. “I’ve resigned from the Konstantinos Marble Corporation. I suggest you phone the company immediately and ask for Dimitri.”

Sakis’s eyes rounded. “You resigned?”

“That’s right. Life is full of surprises and difficulties. Hopefully the new CEO won’t stop these tours because of one troubled teenager.”

Sakis looked genuinely upset. “We’re very sorry to hear this, aren’t we, Andrea?”

“Yes,” she said, aware of Stavros’s gaze. “To see the resources of the earth up close gives you a new reverence for the whole plan of creation. Mounds and mounds of marble here from the beginning of time for men to use.”

“I believe you’re wasted in this office,” Sakis said. “You should be a publicist out selling Greece to the world.”

“You’re full of it,” she teased, but was pleased by the rare compliment, especially in front of Stavros.

He extinguished the last of his cigarette. “All right. I’ll make the call. In light of this information, thank you for coming in person, Kyrie Konstantinos. Nothing would have been possible without your generosity.” Stavros was a generous man. Andrea had firsthand knowledge. “We’re honored that you would allow our tours to come on your property.”

“It has been my pleasure.”

Sakis stood and shook his hand. “The arrangement worked well for everyone.”

“Perhaps it will still work. Good luck.”

But Stavros’s father hadn’t approved, not according to his mother. With Andrea’s heart racing now that this meeting was over, she got to her feet. It was imperative she get away from Stavros. “Have a good weekend, Sakis.”

“You too. See you on Monday.”

“I’ll be here.”

She left the office first, hoping to lose Stavros by going down in the elevator. But when she found she had to wait for it, she opted for the stairs.

Stavros caught up to her at the landing, not the least winded. “Where’s the fire, despinis?”

Andrea darted him a glance. “I have a bus to catch.” She knew she was behaving like an idiot, but she was afraid of her feelings for him.

“You don’t own a car?”

“I don’t need one in town. When Dad comes home, I use his.” She kept going until she came out into the foyer.

“I’ll drive you home.”

“I appreciate the offer, but it isn’t necessary.”

“I’m afraid it’s of vital importance to me.”

Something in his tone made her realize he wasn’t toying with her. She stopped walking and looked at him. “That sounded serious.”

“At last I’ve gotten through to you. Do you have plans for this evening?”

Andrea could lie, but was resigned that he would see through it. “No.”

“You do now. The limo is waiting out in front. I’ll run you home so you can change into something comfortable and pack an overnight bag. Bring a bathing suit. I want to spend the weekend with you. Surely that couldn’t come as a surprise—or am I wrong and you have no interest in me?”