Page 9 of Billionaire's Desire
“Finn? What is it?” I ask.
“The potential investors we’ve been trying to impress, they own a yacht and they want us to join them on a trip,” Finn explains. “It’ll be a great opportunity for us to network and make a good impression.”
I considered his proposal for a moment. “I don’t know, Finn. I’m not much of a yacht person,” I responded.
“Neither am I, Max, but consider it for a moment.”
“I don’t like large water bodies, you know that. Plus, how long would this trip even be?”
“One month?”
I almost jumped out of my seat. “I can’t be off shore for a whole month, Finn.”
He nods understandingly. “I understand your concerns, Max, but this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Trust me, this will pay off in the long run. And, who knows, maybe you’ll even have a little fun in the process.”
I take a moment to think it over. Finn makes a valid argument, and there could be potential benefits to this trip.
“Okay, let’s do it,” I finally say. “But we need to make sure that we stay focused on the business aspect of the trip, and not just let it become a frivolous vacation.”
Finn nods in agreement. “Absolutely, Max. I know we can make this work for us. There is just one more thing.”
“Go on!” I urged him.
“Pen’s anniversary is coming up. There is no way I will not be here for it.”
I swallow a painful gulp.
Next week, Thursday, would mark the day he proposed to her, and he always brings her flowers on that day. There is no way I could ask him to break tradition.
“Then we can stay, and we can figure something else out.”
“No, Max, you can still go.”
“I can’t let you do that alone Finn.”
His eyes shone with genuine gratitude when he looked at me. “I will be fine, Max. I promise.”
So, I ended up reluctantly agreeing to the trip, alone.
I had to find a way to call Mia and tell her that I was not going to be able to make the trip to the island after all. I dreaded that conversation.
I dialed my girlfriend’s number and waited for her to answer. When she did, I could hear the excitement in her voice. “Max! I’ve been counting down the days until you arrive. What’s the plan for your trip?”
I take a deep breath before speaking. “Hey, Babe. I have some bad news. I won’t be able to make it after all.”
There was a pause on the other end. “What do you mean you won’t be able to make it? Is everything okay?”
“Yes, everything is fine. Something came up at work and I won’t be able to get away,” I explained.
She sounds disappointed. “Max, I was really looking forward to seeing you. We haven’t seen each other in so long.”
I feel guilty cancelling our plans yet again, but it was not like I had an option out of it. “I know, and I’m sorry. I was looking forward to it too. But this work trip can’t be ignored. I promise, I will make it up to you soon.”
“I understand,” she says, but I can still hear the disappointment in her voice.
“I’m really sorry, Babe. I will take some time off work after this trip.” I say, trying to reassure her.
“It’s okay.”
