Page 95 of Bargaining

It’s a long story. You can go back to the house.

It’s fine. I’m back home with Paul.

My heart sank. Good that I wasn’t making things difficult for Tiff with her accommodation, but I’d hoped she was done with Paul.

We can sell the house. It has to be the right people.

She replied.Why the change of heart?

Because it’s not worth it. I’m over billionaire dick.

I walked to the fountain and threw a coin over my shoulder. Rome had my heart. I’d be back here again one day. Alone.

I dragged my case through the lobby to the exit. It was about to cost me a fortune to fly home, but I’d take the hit. Better that than spend any more time with Cole.

“Charlotte?”

Reuben strolled across the lobby. He flashed a broad smile and rocked back on his Air Jordans. “Sorry about all that awkward business last night with my dad.” He took off his neon-orange baseball cap and fanned his face with it. “He can be like that.”

“Don’t you get tired of him?”

His smile dimmed a little. “Sometimes. He’s not always that bad.” He scanned the lobby. “Are you checking out? Where’s Cole?”

“I don’t know, and I don’t care.”

He frowned. “You’re leaving alone?”

“Yes. Excuse me. I don’t want the taxi to leave.”

He propped his cap back on his head and offered an amiable smile. “Do you want a lift?”

“It’s fine. I booked a car to the airport.”

“No. I meant a lift back to England. I’m just about to fly home. The jet is waiting.”

Absolutely no way did I want an awkward trip on a private jet with the fake father-in-law from hell. “No. Thanks. I’ll make my own way.”

“Dad’s not coming, if that’s what you were worried about. He’s staying on. It’s just me. Come on. Avoid all those awful queues at check-in.”

“You don’t mind?”

“Of course not, Sis.” He beamed. “We’re family.”

He tried to take my case, but I gripped the handle. “I’ve got it. Thanks.”

In the cool, air-conditioned interior of Reuben’s limo, I sent Cole a text.

I want a divorce.

Then, with a sigh, I sent a follow-up message because I couldn’t help myself.Don’t forget to pack your laptop charger. It’s on the bedside table.

Chapter 43

Cole

“Checked out? You’re sure?”

The man behind the reception desk, wearing a suit and tie in the blistering heat of Rome, clicked his mouse over the screen again. “Yes. Just over two hours ago.”