Page 1 of My Forbidden Billionaire

Chapter One

Josephine

Three Months Ago

“Josephine, I think we should see other people.”

“Um, excuse me?” I blink at Tom—unsure if I’m hearing him correctly.

Surely, I misunderstood.

Tonight is our six-year dating anniversary. We’re at a romantic steakhouse that Tom declared—long ago—is our favorite. The walls are adorned with a warm brown that matches the leather seats and the wooden floors. The lighting is dim, creating a cozy ambiance that’s perfect for a couple’s night out.

But now, it feels like a trap.

I look across the table at the two glasses of sparkling wine and the entrée of surf and turf he ordered for us to share—very thoughtful for someone who was planning on breaking my heart over dinner.

Tom looks down at his lap, his fingers fidgeting with the hem of his shirt, before clearing his throat and looking up to meet my gaze. “I just think we’ve been together for a really long time, and maybe it’s time for us to see other people. You know, explore what else is out there.”

I sit in silence, trying to process what he just said.

I’ve spent the last six years of my life with Tom and now he’s just casually suggesting we see other people?

The thought of starting over makes my stomach churn.

“Tom, please tell me you’re joking,” I say, my voice shaking.

“Why would I be joking, Josephine?” As he speaks, Tom’s eyes flit around the restaurant, avoiding my gaze. His palms are clammy and I can see him wringing them together under the table.

It’s as if he’s already made up his mind and is just waiting for the inevitable fallout.

I shake my head, tears starting to prick at the corners of my eyes. “I can’t believe this is happening. You’re breaking up with me on our anniversary? After six years together?”

This is not at all how I saw tonight going…

I mean sure, things between Tom and me haven’t been perfect, but I thought we were in it for the long haul. Not to mention, my parents have been chomping at the bit for us to get married and have kids. My mom already has my wedding dress picked out. She’s going to be so disappointed.

“I know, it’s not ideal. But my heart just isn’t in it anymore.” He shrugs.

“What did I do wrong?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

“It’s not you, Josephine, it’s me. I just feel like there’s something missing in our relationship.”

“How long have you been feeling this way?” I choke back tears, trying not to let them spill over.

Tom looks at me, his face blank. “To be honest, I’ve been feeling this way for a while now. I just couldn’t bring myself to say it,” he says, shrugging again, nonchalantly.

I stare at him, completely lost for words. My heart is racing, and I feel like I’m about to be sick.

Just then his phone starts to ring, shattering the awkward silence that was beginning to envelop our anniversary dinner. I see the name Stacy on the screen.

I watch as Tom quickly looks down at his phone and then back up at me. He hesitates for a moment before finally answering the call.

“Hey, Stacy,” Tom says, his voice suddenly cheerful. “What’s up?”

I can hear the sound of Stacy’s voice on the other end, but I can’t make out what she’s saying.

I watch as Tom’s face lights up with a smile, and I feel a sudden surge of anger.