Page 33 of How to Train Your Billionaire

Ryder:

Haha, you caught me! Iamtraining for the “World’s Coolest Human” competition. It’s a tough field, but I’m in the running formost likely to have a dog who’s cuter than me.

As for the dog ... yeah, she’s definitely the one in charge. I’m basically just her personal chauffeur. But hey, I get a good workout in, so it’s a win-win.

How about you? Any hidden talents, or are you just here to judge people’s snack choices and laugh at bad puns?

Okay so we’re off to a promising start. Why is Tessa always warning me away from dating apps? This is actually kinda fun.

I recall a conversation we once had. She all but scolded me.

“Sweetie. I’ve spent so much time on that site, they made me a mod.”

“Oh good, then give me all your best tips,” I demanded.

“The differences in our dating pool are vast. Women are flagged for having included too much personally identifying info—like them in a uniform in front of the restaurant where they work. Guys are being flagged for ahem ... other pics.”

“Like?” I prompted.

“I’ve seen things, baby girl, let’s leave it at that.”

“Tell me. Quit being weird.”

She did tell me, and I’ve never been the same. Ick! But so far, Ryder hasn’t assaulted me with any photos of his genitalia, so that’s a plus.See?I can do the whole dating thing. Look at me, functioning like a normal human.

I roll up my sleeves and get to work coming up with a witty reply.

Frankie:

Well, you and your tiny, four-legged boss are truly redefiningtransportation efficiency. Next up: surfing while carrying groceries?

As for hidden talents ... I have aneliteability to trip over absolutely nothing, I can recite the entire menu of my favorite taco truck from memory, and I once won a staring contest with a cat. (He blinked first. It was a proud moment.)

Now, tell me the truth—does your dog approve of your dating choices? Because I feel like she hasveryhigh standards.

I almost want to brag about my ability to come up with witty Wi-Fi names, but Hayes didn’t seem impressed, so I opt to leave that out.

Ryder:

Oh, Sunny would love you, I’m sure. She likes everyone. Taco truck, huh? That’s impressive. If you’re up for it, there’s a killer beach bar that has a great happy hour. Live music and everything. You up for? Tomorrow maybe?

And just like that, I have a date tomorrow.

Chapter Fourteen

Out of Sight, Not Out of Mind

Hayes

I barely look up from my laptop as Charles greets Francesca the following morning. “Someone’s in a good mood today,” he says, folding his copy ofThe Wall Street Journalto watch her as she moves around the kitchen, humming.

She’s standing by the espresso machine, grinning as she adds sugar to her coffee. “What? Am I not allowed to be cheerful?”

“I didn’t say that. It’s just noticeable for someone who’s self-professed ‘not a morning person,’” Charles says, shooting me a look like he expects me to chime in. I don’t. Instead, I click aggressively at my keyboard, though I have no idea what I’m even typing anymore. Something about her energy is irritating today. Too bright. Too ... distracting.

“Fine, if you must know, I have a date tonight.” She turns, her face practically glowing with excitement. “His name’s Ryder. And he’s a surf instructor.”

My jaw tightens. Ryder. Even the name annoys me. I can already picture the guy—sun-bleached hair, that lazy, easygoing confidence, the kind of guy who calls everyone “dude” and never wears shoes.