Page 21 of The Rebel Billionaire

Out of habit, my hand goes to the pendant around my neck. I drop it instantly, its weight and feel are wrong. The familiar comfort missing, locked away in Sophia’s safe.

“The plan for this afternoon,” she says, as if sensing my need to change the subject. “When we get to the office, we’ll stop on the twentieth floor and visit Sandro. Let him know we’re in the building. After we’ve seen him, we’ll visit Human Resources, where you can hand over your documentation. They’ll be able to place you in one of the departments. Give you something to do instead of sitting around your apartment all day,” she says.

I force a smile. “Thank you, that sounds great. Is there anything I should know in advance?”

Sophia looks over at me. “Remember everything we’ve discussed. Sandro is direct and highly driven. He takes his position as CEO very seriously.”

“He sounds like…”

Sophia shoots me a look, and I stop mid-sentence.

My siblings. Elijah, Caleb, Gabriel and Kat. They’re all driven individuals.

“He also values honesty. Do not let me down.”

Shit, she’s lying to her son on my behalf.

“I won’t,” I say, praying I don’t slip up.

Maybe if I just keep my head down and my mouth shut, we can all get through this unscathed.

Benjamin pulls into the parking garage under one of the many skyscrapers. The building is quite something, and St Clair headquarters occupies ten secure floors.

“We moved to these offices seven years ago,” Sophia tells me as we exit the elevator and enter reception.

“Mrs Bianchi. It’s lovely to see you,” the receptionist says, getting to her feet.

“Afternoon, Lucia,” she returns, stepping up to the desk. “This is Brooke Feldmann. Can you sign her in? We’re going up to visit my son, and then for an interview with HR.”

“Of course, Mrs Bianchi.” She returns to her seat and taps on her keyboard. “Look into the camera, please,” she says to me, tapping the tiny device on the desk in front of her.

My gaze shoots to Sophia, who nods.

On your own head be it.

The woman behind the desk looks over and smiles. I hold my breath, my heart hammering in my chest, waiting for a hint of recognition. When none comes, I tilt my lips, allowing a small smile. This is the first time I’ve been in an open, busy space since the story of the sex tape hit the press.

I wipe my palms on my trousers before taking the lanyard she’s pushed across the desk and sliding it over my head.

“Thank you,” I say.

“Enjoy your visit and good luck with the interview,” she says with a smile. “You both have a good day.”

Sophia turns, and we head back towards the large bank of elevators. I follow her inside, and we wait for the doors to close.

“Breathe,” she says, her eyes steely.

I’m beginning to wonder if I should offer to leave.

Before I get a chance, the doors open, and we step out.

“This way,” Sophia says, marching forward.

I drop my head, letting my hair cover the sides of my face.

Sophia stops and turns. “For goodness’ sake, head up. Walk with confidence. You look like you’ve got something to hide.”

Easy for you to say, I have… me!