The Billionaire's Dangerous Redemption (by Claire Winters) novel Chapter 38

38 The Last Resort

I breathed a sigh of relief as I left the Sinclair estate. The meeting had been successful despite my embarrassing entrance Mrs. Sinclair’s approval of my designs was a professional victory, but my awkward encounter with Sebastian left me confused

The car drove smoothly away from the mansion as I replayed our interaction in my mind. Why did his presence affect me so strongly? Those intense eyes, that subtle smile. I shook my head. I couldn’t afford distractions, not with the auction looming

over me

The restaurant on Fifth Avenue, please.” I instructed the driver, checking the time on my phone. My grandmother and Vera would be waiting.

Thirty minutes later. I stepped into “The Garden,” an upscale restaurant with lush greenery and soft lighting. Spotting my grandmother and Vera at our usual corner table, I hurried over.

“There she is!” Grandmother’s face lit up. She looked elegant as always, her silver hair styled perfectly. “How was your meeting, dear?”

Hleaned down to kiss her cheek. “It went well. Mrs. Sinclair loved the designs.”

“Of course she did. Vera raised her glass of wine. “You’re the best designer in the city?

“Always my biggest cheerleader.” I smiled gratefully at my aunt as I took my seat.

The waiter appeared instantly with a menu. After ordering, I focused on my grandmother, whose bright eyes studied me with concern.

“You took tired, Hazel,” she said, reaching across to touch my hand. “Are you working too hard again?”

The fine Grandma, I assured her. Just busy with preparations for the auction

Her eyebrows furrowed Do you have enough for the bid? I know how much that building means to you

The question made my stomach twist forced a confident smile. “Actually, sold my

villa to Alistait

You what? Vera nearly choked on her drink

“It was just sitting there” Hied smoothly “I wasn’t using it, and Alistair offered a good Eprice I have enough for the auction now

My grandmother looked relieved. “Oh, that’s wonderful news! I was so worried.

The guilt of lying to her stabbed at my heart, but I couldn’t bear her worrying. Our

food arrived, momentarily distracting from the conversation.

“So Vera said between bites, “tell us about meeting the famous Sebastian Sinclair.

I rolled my eyes, hoping to appear nonchalant. “There’s nothing to tell. He’s just a

client.

“A very handsome client, according to the society pages.” Vera’s eyes twinkled

mischievously

“Vera!” My grandmother scolded gently. “Leave the girl alone.”

appreciated my grandmother’s intervention. The last thing I wanted was to discuss my confusing feelings about Sebastian Sinclair.

Lunch continued pleasantly, with my grandmother sharing gossip from her bridge club

and Vera discussing her restaurant’s expansion plans. For a brief moment, I forgot

about my financial troubles.

After saying goodbye to my grandmother, who had a doctor’s appointment, Vera and 1 walked to the nearby park.

Okay, spill at Vera demanded once we were alone. “You didn’t sell your villa. What’s really going on?”

sighed heavily, sinking onto a park bench. “I’m still 70 million short for the auction. Vera. I dont know what to do:

“Why didn’t you tell your grandmother the truth?”

“And worry her sick? No way? I shook my head firmly. “She’s already concerned about my health after everything with Alistair and by:

a The Le Pe

Vera sal beside me, her face serious. “How much do you have now?”

“About 30 million. I stared at my hands. “Tvc emptied my savings accounts and

Diquidated some investments

“What about your fashion line profits?”

“All tied up in production costs for the next season.” I rubbed my temples. “The auction is less than a week away!

Vera was quiet for a moment, then pulled out her phone. After a few taps, she looked

up at me. Tm transferring 20 million to your account right now.”

“Vera, no!” I protested. “That’s your savings.”

“And what am I saving for? Some rainy day?” She shook her head stubbornly. “This is

important to you, so it’s important to me. Besides, you can pay me back when your

business booms.”

Tears pricked at my eyes. “I don’t deserve you.”

“Of course you do.” She finished the transfer. “There. Now you’re 50 million short.”

Thugged her tightly. “Thank you. I mean it.”

“What about your other friends? Maybe some of them could pitch in?”

I nodded slowly. “I’ve already asked some. Most can only spare a few million each, but

it might help.”

By the time evening fell. I had called everyone I knew who might be able to help. Despite their generosity. I had only managed to secure another 20 million in promises.

Sitting alone in my apartment later that night, I stared at the numbers on my laptop screen. Fifty million raised, fifty million still needed, and the auction just days away.

Ineeded that building. It was perfect for my design studio and the attached boutique- the cornerstone of my independent brand. Without it. I’d be stuck in rented spaces forever, never truly building my empire

My phone pinged with a text from Vera: “Any fuck?

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