The Billionaire's Dangerous Redemption (by Claire Winters) novel Chapter 158

158 An Unexpected Appointment

Hazel’s POV 1

“Sebastian Sinclair speaking.”

His deep voice caught me off guard. I’d been so prepared to leave a voicemail that I stumbled over my words.

“Hello? Sebastian, it’s Hazel. Hazel Shaw.”

Why had I added my last name? Of course he knew who I was. I cringed at my awkwardness.

“Hazel,” he said, his tone warming instantly. “This is a pleasant surprise.”

I fidgeted with a pencil on my desk, suddenly nervous. “I hope I’m not interrupting anything important.”

“Not at all. I was just reviewing some contracts.” There was a rustling of papers on his end. “Is everything alright?”

“Yes, everything’s fine.” I took a deep breath. “I’m calling about the debt I owe you.”

“The debt?” He sounded genuinely confused.

“The ten million you gave me to deal with my father’s bankruptcy.” I straightened my back, strengthening my resolve. “I can repay a large portion of it now.”

There was a pause on the other end of the line. “I see. I wasn’t expecting this call so

soon.”

“I sold my shares in Shaw Industries,” I explained, pride creeping into my voice. “I received seventy million for them.”

“Seventy million?” Sebastian sounded impressed. “That’s quite a negotiation. Tanya Turner must have been desperate.”

I smiled, remembering Tanya’s face as she’d written the check. “Desperation makes people do all sorts of things.”

“Indeed it does.” His chuckle was warm and rich. “But Hazel, there’s no rush to repay

158 An Unexpected Appointment

1. As I mentioned before, I’m in no hurry for the money.”

“I know, but I don’t like owing people.” I tapped my pencil on the desk. “Especially such a large sum.”

“I understand principles, believe me.” His voice softened. “Very well. I’ll send you my banking details later today.”

Relief washed over me. “Thank you. I appreciate it.”

An awkward silence fell between us. I wondered if I should end the call or try to extend our conversation. Before I could decide, Sebastian spoke again.

“How are the designs coming along? The ones for my wardrobe.”

My heart leapt at the change in topic. “They’re going well. I’ve completed most of the sketches and started on the actual pieces.”

“Excellent. I’m looking forward to seeing them.”

“They should be ready in a couple of weeks,” I said, enthusiasm overtaking my earlier nervousness. “I’ve used that deep navy fabric you liked for the formal suit. It

complements your coloring perfectly.”

“Speaking of the clothes,” Sebastian said, his voice taking on a thoughtful tone. “I have a school anniversary coming up next month. I was hoping to wear something you designed.”

My heart skipped a beat. “Really? You want to wear my designs to an event?”

“Of course. Why else would I commission them?” There was amusement in his voice. “Unless you think I’m collecting them just to fill my closet.”

I laughed, my earlier tension dissolving. “No, I just… it’s an honor. Your school must be

quite prestigious.”

“It’s the twentieth anniversary of our graduation. Nothing too formal, but I want to make an impression.” There was a smile in his voice. “And wearing an original Hazel Shaw design will certainly do that.”

Warmth spread through my chest at his words. “I’ll make sure it’s perfect.”

“I have no doubt.” He paused. “In that case, I should probably come in for a fitting

soon.”

“A fitting? Yes, of course.” I glanced at my calendar. “I can schedule you in next week if

that works?”

“Actually, tomorrow would be better.” His tone was casual but firm. “I have meetings near your area in the afternoon. I could come directly to your studio afterward.”

Tomorrow? My heart raced at the thought of seeing him so soon. I glanced around my office, mentally cataloging what needed to be done before he arrived.

“Tomorrow works,” I said, trying to match his casual tone. “Around four?”

“Perfect. Text me your studio address and I’ll be there.”

“I will.” I hesitated, suddenly aware of how much I was looking forward to seeing him.

“And Sebastian?”

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