Page 60 of How to Train Your Billionaire

“You lost a tooth,” I say, smiling back at her.

She shows off the blank spot where her front tooth used to be, her tongue poking into the space. “Yup. Got four dollars for it too.”

“What else is new?”

“Nothing really. When are you coming back?”

I explain to her about the trip so far, basically stalling for time, because I’m not sure, honestly. “Someone’s gotta keep an eye on the old man,” I settle on.

“Nuh-uh, my mom told me he hired some lady to go with him.”

I chuckle. “Francesca is more than justsome lady.”

Maddie’s mouth slowly curls up in a smile. “What, is she yourgirl ... friend?” she draws out the word.

“Not hardly. People my age don’t have girlfriends.”

“Exactly. People your age have wives ... and when are you going to get one of those?”

“Hmm, let me think ...” I tap my chin. “Never.”

Maddie laughs.

“I gotta go, kid. Be good, okay?”

“I’m always good,” she says, smiling.

She is too. Maddie’s a great kid. Even if my dad messed up royally, having Maddie in my life has been a nice consolation prize. I’m not sure my mother would agree with that statement, but it is what it is.

After my phone call, I head back out to find Charles and Francesca. They’re where I left them in the main salon, but it appears they’ve changed into pajamas.

Frankie has a huge bowl of popcorn in her lap, and both she and Charles are engaged in some type of self-care ritual, complete with lavender-colored eye masks.

I catch sight of Charles and do a double take, realizing he’s also wearing fuzzy pink socks, Frankie’s no doubt.

“That’s a new look for you,” I say.

Frankie shushes me. “His feet were cold.”

“And the ...” I gesture to her face.

“For your information, these are gel eye masks. They increase hydration and reduce puffiness and undereye circles.”

“Of course they do.” I nod, trying not to smile.

“We’re just about to start a movie. Join us,” my uncle says, touching one finger to his undereye mask.

I made plans already ... apparently last night I promised Jack and Sebastian we’d go to the casino tonight.

“I have extra eye masks. But you need to put on pajama pants if you’re joining us.”

“I don’t own pajama pants.”

“Then what do you sleep in?” She looks genuinely perplexed.

I cock an eyebrow. “Do you really want me to answer that?”

She holds up both hands. “Nope. Never mind.”