Page 67 of My Forbidden Billionaire
I take the bracelet and admire the intricate design of the purple and pink beads, as well as the white butterflies that seem to flutter around it.
“You made this? It’s beautiful,” I say, feeling touched by her gesture. “Thank you so much!”
She smiles and nods. “I know it’s not much, but I wanted to show you that I appreciate everything you do for us. And for me.”
I feel a lump form in my throat.
This is why I became a teacher, to make a difference and be there for my students.
“You have no idea how much this means to me, Clem. Thank you.”
She nods before grabbing her bag and heading for the door. “I should get going. My dad’s waiting for me outside.”
“Of course. Have a good evening.”
As she walks out, I feel a sense of warmth wash over me. Clem is so special, and I consider myself lucky to be in her life.
I only wish I could be more than just her literature instructor…
Although … after my encounter today with Ms. Abadie, I’m not so sure I’ll even be a literature instructor much longer.
My heart sinks at the thought of Ms. Abadie scheming against me.
If that woman gives you any more grief, just send her to me.
Jacob’s words from last night echo in my mind.
And suddenly, I realize what I need to do.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Jacob
Jo: Can I call you?
Without hesitation, I touch the screen of my phone and call her. “I’m glad you asked, but you know that you don’t have to. You can call me whenever you want, no matter what,” I say instead of “ hello.”
“Thank you,” she replies sweetly.
“Are you okay, Jo? Clem told me what happened at school today.”
“Not really…” she says. “Jacob, I—I really need to talk to you. Is there any chance we can meet somewhere … discreetly?”
My heart leaps into my throat as I hear the desperation in her voice. “Of course. Whatever you need, I’m here for you. I’ve got a place in mind. I’ll text the directions.”
“Okay great. I’ll see you there in an hour?”
“Absolutely,” I reply before ending the call.
Even though the Blue Bird is a private restaurant, it’s more crowded than I hoped it would be tonight. The waiter shows me to a small, cozy nook at the back of the restaurant, which—he assures me—is prepared especially for my meeting with Josephine, as per my instructions.
I take a seat and anxiously wait for her arrival.
I try to fidget with my phone but all I can do is aimlessly scroll. My hands feel a little clammy as I attempt to figure out what to do and how to behave when she arrives.
And then, all of a sudden, there she is. Walking through the restaurant toward me, she looks like a vision. In just a few steps, Josephine reaches the table and I help her take off her coat. Her bare shoulders glow like molten gold in the hazy light of the chandelier and all I can think of is how much I want to kiss them. Instead, I stand there, awestruck, admiring just how beautiful she is. Wrapped in a black, silk dress, all lace and straps, she is unbelievable. Her high heels click seductively on the marble floors and I am simply stunned.
“Hey, you…”