I Slapped My Fiancé—Then Married His Billionaire Nemesis novel Chapter 249

Chapter 249 Mira: Something’s off

You seem distracted,‘ Fabrizio said. ‘Is something wrong?‘

What? Huh? Oh, nothing.‘ I shook my head.

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‘Either that, or Rue des Barres has lost its charm. We just walked past the Fontaine Stravinsky, and you barely glanced at it.‘

I looked around.

It really was beautiful.

Paris and romance were practically synonyms, and in early spring, the city was absurdly pretty.

The chestnut trees lining the street were just starting to leaf, spilling soft green over the cream–coloured façades.

Bright awnings flapped above bakery doors, café tables spilt onto the pavements, and the breeze smelled of

flowers and warm bread.

I pictured walking here with Ashton, hand in hand.

The thought made me smile–then frown.

I knew he was jealous of Fabrizio.

The look on his face this morning when he dropped me off said so.

But he had no reason to be.

I was engaged to him. I didn’t break promises. Not unless someone gave me a damn good reason–like Rhys had, when he slapped me. It was only once, sure. But once is all it takes.

“There it is again,‘ Fabrizio’s voice snapped me back. “That look. I don’t mean to pry, but if there’s anything I can do, just say the word. You’re important to the company. I know I’ve piled a lot on you lately, but I don’t want you feeling like you’re stranded in a foreign city with no support.‘

I’m not alone. Ashton’s here.‘ The words came out on topilot.

Right Forgot about that.‘

Up ahead, Louis–François and Peter Carl were locked in full–body debate, arms flailing like they were conducting an invisible orchestra. I half expected somene to get smacked in the face.

The breeze shifted, bringing the scent of lilac and fresh guettes.

Paris was gorgeous. My job was picking up speed, I was working with great people, and I was engaged to the

best man I knew.

So why did it feel like something was about to go sideways?

“Thanks for your concern. I’m fine, really.‘ I smiled at Fabrizio.

He gave me one back, then nodded towards some nearby tables. ‘Let’s sit. Café L’Oiseau Bleu, just there. We’ll get some lunch and go over your sketches. This afternoon, I’ll take you to Square des Peupliers. You

Chapter 249 Mira Something’s off

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were after the perfect pearl tone, weren’t you? There’s a Haussmann building with the exact creamy–white you need,‘

That pulled me back into work mode. ‘Actually, I’ve changed my mind about the necklace.‘

‘Oh?‘

I’m leaning towards South Sea pearls. I know they’re expensive, but the size–10mm at least–is just awesome, and that colour…‘ I let out a little sigh, already picturing it.

When I moved into his house, Ashton had filled my new wardrobe with designer clothes, shoes, and basically every jeweller’s wet dream.

Including a South Sea Pearl necklace. I’d actually slept hugging it. For several nights. With zero shame.

Fabrizio nodded. He got it. “That golden hue is one–of–a–kind.‘

‘Right? It’s better than actual gold. And the lustre… God, it’s like velvet.‘

‘I know a few pearl farms in Broome. Sourcing them wouldn’t be hard. But the cost…‘ He hesitated. ‘You know the budget’s tight right now.‘

I sighed. ‘Yeah. Maybe we stick with Akoyas. Can’t go wrong with the classics.‘

‘Your fiancé’s an investor, isn’t he?‘

‘I think so?‘ I said, a bit vague. With all Ashton’s businesses, it was hard to keep track.

Although… he’d bought Nyx Collective for me. Did that count?

‘Any chance he’d be interested in Valmont & Cie?‘ Fabrizio’s tone was light, casual.

I’d have to ask. Are you hoping he’ll invest?‘

‘At this point, I’d welcome a divine miracle or a solid injection of capital. The bankers are basically living on my doorstep. I’d like to get home without tripping over one.‘

I blinked. ‘I didn’t realise it was that bad.‘

Everyone knew Valmont had cash flow issues, but I assumed it was manageable. This was a well- established house. They must have assets, property… things they could leverage

“We’re not going under tomorrow, if that’s what you’re worried about,‘ Fabrizio said with a shrug

Louis–François and Peter Carl had disappeared inside the café. I caught sight of Peter craning over the ice cream counter like a kid on a sugar hunt

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