Page 82 of The Billionaire's Destiny

“Yes, it is,” she beamed as she touched it. “His marketing team created these for the exhibits. They’re already sold out.”

“Wow, that’s great. I want one.”

She smiled. “I’ll see about putting one aside when they restock.”

“Where’s my big brother?”

“He’s here. I put in the call for him so he could stay on schedule.”

I could see his wheelchair behind her, and she moved to the side. Jacob was there; he’d colored his skull cut purple. “Nice hair.”

He grinned and signed, “It’s part of my new image.”

“It’s actually a nice color,” Grandmother said and placed her hand on the back of his chair.

My jaw dropped open. “Have we been invaded by alien body snatchers?”

She smirked. “Hardly. Jacob’s testing his image as an artist personality. You needed to marry well. There’s a big difference.”

Jacob signed. “You can’t argue with that, little sis,” he added with a playful grin. But behind his eyes, there was a trace of brotherly worry.

I plastered on a smile. “You can, and things are fine here, too. Glad to see you’re good.”

“Thank you,” Jacob signed. “You really all right, Lina?”

I yawned. “I am.”

He frowned.

I waved my hands dismissively.

Grandmother took a seat next to him. “So, tell us what you’re doing.”

“I’m working on my illustrations, and Rocco’s working at Marini Corporate.”

She smiled. “That’s good. I’ve heard some very positive news on that front.”

“You have?”

“Yes. Marini Shipping stocks are still up. It’s a win with Rocco at the helm.”

Marini Corporate released a press statement after our meeting stating that Rocco would continue working there, and in the last few weeks, the stocks remained strong.

It was also good to hear Grandmother admire Rocco. We were still waiting for the board’s decision. Rocco was sure it meant an even split, and they had to wait for someone to switch sides. They didn’t seem to be in a hurry since they were still making money, which didn’t look good for Rocco moving on without losing something. I couldn’t believe they would treat Rocco so horribly after all he’d done, but a chance to take power brought out the worst in people.

“So, catch me up.” I signed. “What’s going on?”

Jacob signed. “Most of my work is on tour. I’ve sold numerous pieces, and I can’t keep up with so many requests.”

“That’s why I’ve hired a manager and publicist to help Jacob,” Grandmother spoke and signed. “He also has an accountant, lawyers, everything. But he also needs to rest more, or he’ll have to cancel.” Her voice rose with authority, and I was sure Jacob would be offended by being treated like a kid. But he grinned and signed to her, “You’re my O.G. manager, Grandmother. There’s no one better.”

“Oh, Jacob,” she laughed and leaned over and pecked his cheek.

My hand touched my heart, beating so hard in my chest I was sure it would explode. Never had I ever thought they’d share a friendship. Then again, Jacob never complained when she fussed over his room, his clothes, and his physical therapy during our visits over the years. While I thought she was ignoring him, I could now see that Jacob saw it as her own way of showing she cared. “That’s great, Jacob. I’m so proud of your success, and keep it going.”

“Thank you,” Jacob signed. “Now, tell us, what’s up with you?”

“Working on a billion things, but I’m loving it. Let me show you.” I picked up the camera and showed them the studio, with half-painted canvases, stacks of open sketchbooks, and open books marked with sticky notes for references.