Total pages in book: 23
Estimated words: 21882 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 109(@200wpm)___ 88(@250wpm)___ 73(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 21882 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 109(@200wpm)___ 88(@250wpm)___ 73(@300wpm)
“I’m sorry you had to catch us in flagrante like you mentioned, Mrs. Mitchell,” Cameron says courteously. “But we weren’t expecting any visitors this late at night. Or should I say, this early in the morning? It’s five a.m. right now.”
I turn slowly to look at my mom while reaching for my bag.
“Yes, Mom. What are you doing here? It’s so early, and when I left the apartment, you were sound asleep.”
My mother has the grace to look ashamed.
“I woke up after a little while, and you weren’t there, Maddy. I figured you’d gone to bed and I know the casino is open 24/7, so I decided to come by.”
I stare at her, Cameron’s big bulk at my side.
“But to do what? Were you going to gamble? Grab a drink? It’s a little early for alcohol, isn’t it?”
My mom shakes her head, biting her lip while looking nervous.
“No, I was coming by Mr. Savage’s office to ask for another chance at being a showgirl,” she admits in a low tone. Tears spring to her eyes. “Mr. Savage, my daughter and I don’t need much. I just need some job so that Maddy can go to college, but it doesn’t have to be a high-paying. I know Le Palms was very kind and generous to offer me that position in Laundry –”
My lover cuts my mom off with a chop in the air of his hand.
“That’s not necessary, Mrs. Mitchell. Madeline and I were just talking, and we’d like to send you to a local community college for some re-training courses. Your daughter mentioned that you might enjoy taking computer classes, or perhaps some accounting. She stated that you’re a natural learner, and that you just need the right opportunity.”
My mom stares, flabbergasted, at Cameron.
“I’m sorry? Job re-training?”
My lover nods.
“It’s very common these days, and you’ve been a loyal employee of Le Palms for ten years now. We want to help you get on your feet, and part of that is directed skills growth as well as some career counseling as needed. Maddy mentioned that you’re very interested in learning, and maybe taking this time to transition and gain skills could be very beneficial.”
I stare at the handsome man. He is well-spoken, that’s for sure. Not only that, but he’s sexy because he’s clearly incredibly intelligent, as well as gracious. He doesn’t have to be nice to my mom, but instead, he’s rolling out the red carpet.
“Well, I’m not sure what to think,” my mother says, picking herself up from the ground and smoothing down her coat. “I’ve had my eye on a few courses at Palm Springs Community College for years now, but I never thought I’d get the chance.”
“This is your chance,” I say with a teary smile. “Mom, take the opportunity. Cameron was just saying that he’s going to pay for the credits, and also that he’d provide a generous stipend while you’re in school. Isn’t that right, Cameron? It’s what you do for all loyal employees.”
He shoots me a look but then smiles graciously.
“Of course. Le Palms will be happy to accommodate you Mrs. Mitchell. For as long as you like.”
That takes me by surprise. I thought Grace was only going to have six weeks to figure out a new direction for her career, but maybe he’s having second thoughts. Maybe the gorgeous CEO wants to do right, and he’s going to provide support for a little while longer.
“Well, I’m not sure what to say,” Grace says hesitantly. “Thank you?”
My lover merely bows his dark head.
“You’re very welcome. It’s the least I can do. But one more thing.”
“Yes?” my mom asks, reaching for her purse.
Cameron looks at both of us thoughtfully.
“Seeing that the cat’s been let out of the bag, I wanted to let you know that your daughter and I are an item now, and have been for a while. As a result, I’d like Maddy to move in with me. She mentioned that she enjoys living with you, but I’d like to provide her with a little more. Here, at Le Palms, she’ll have access to the catered food, nutritious meals, as well as a quiet place to study in the hotel library. We also have personal trainers, and of course, the full suite of spa services. I’d like your daughter to move in with me, Mrs. Mitchell. With your permission of course.”
I turn to look at Cameron, my mouth hanging open slightly. Is he serious? I guess so, seeing that determined expression on his face. It makes sense, in a way. I hadn’t thought through the details of our deal, but I figured I’d go to school, go home, and then come over late at night for fun and games in bed. Then I’d sneak back to my house at the break of day.
This makes that all unnecessary, however. If I move into Le Palms, then I’ll be at Cameron’s disposal 24/7, ready for long days and nights of hot loving. Is that what he wants? My heart pounds in anticipation because even though it’s only a temporary thing, I can’t wait. It will be exciting to be with the extraordinary billionaire, and to be touched by him at any time.