Billionaire's Pleasure-Chapter 97: Confession

Eliza’s POV

As she peeked into my room, Mom smiled and asked, "You going down for dinner, sweetheart?"

"I’d rather not," I responded, flipping to the next page in my book. There are some leftovers that I’ll pick up later. It’s my choice whether or not to do that or just leave and get anything.

My mom took a seat on the bed next to me. "Eliza, I’m sorry to hear that. Your father may be stubborn, but he’s also hurting. His best friend, Willie, was supposed to be your little sister. The events between the two of you are still weighing heavily on his mind."

Then I said, "What? Nevertheless, we both know that W would never, ever take advantage of my situation. Your first encounter with him must have been some time ago. No, I don’t think that’s what you’re saying."

"He’s not, I’m sure of it. In addition, I’m aware that you’ve been in love with him since you were a baby. She went on to say that it was a complete surprise to everyone."

"You never expect your daughter to be married to a man your own age, but it’s possible. Especially those who have watched her grow up. I’m not saying this because it’s right or bad; I’m just presenting the fact that sometimes it takes time to adjust to the reality of life. And, as you know, your father can be a bit of a wimp when it comes to dealing with life’s little surprises especially if they have a sentimental slant to them."

"Everything is under my control. It was familiar to me. However, this does not excuse dad’s response."

I said under my breath, "Possibly. So that I am unable to see Willie? after I’ve expressed my feelings for him several times? I think that’s an absolutely ridiculous decision."

"Eliza, your father isn’t perfect, but he is open to admitting when he goes wrong. Give him a chance to make amends. You may be startled by his behavior."

I snorted, I’m not holding my breath. Everything from old canines to new tricks.

As a family, they were invited to sit down for supper and talk about it.

She offered me a little smile as she rubbed my back. As she rose to leave, she gave me one last look before turning around and walking out the door. I couldn’t place the glint in her eyes. When I looked into her eyes, I realized she was pleading with me. As she was caught in the middle of the conflict, she was forced to watch as her own family fell apart around her. She didn’t deserve it, and I could tell she was upset about it all. Only walking down the stairs and eating my dinner while my mum and I chatted about something else was acceptable. If I wanted to, I could join her for dinner.

"That’s fine with me," I said. "I’ll be there as soon as possible."

After a brief grin, my mother strode down the steps before me, and I immediately followed after. It was only then that I saw that there were four sets of chairs instead of the usual three for us.

"Is anyone else around?" My brows arched as I inquired of my mother.

My dad walked into the dining room and said, "I’m here. Yes, that is correct."

My mouth literally hit the floor when I turned to see Willie, who was standing next to my father. My first instinct was to run up to him, kiss him on the lips, and embrace him. That urge resisted my efforts. I was well aware that doing so would likely exacerbate the tensions already present in this room, which had grown increasingly tense since that fateful day. I didn’t want to disturb the fragile equilibrium that seemed to be in place. My mother’s words encouraged me to keep my cool and keep the peace, so I did just that. I figured everything was possible if my father was willing to extend an invitation to Willie for another visit. He softly said, "Eliza," with a smile. "I’d want to use this opportunity to wish you a pleasant stay."

My heart began to race. "The same goes for you, Willie."

"Please tell my daughter something Willie, since I think it’s important."After clearing his throat, my father said.

Inquisitive glances were exchanged with Willie before I turned my sight to my father’s. A slew of scary scenarios was flashing through my mind at the same time I had no idea what was about to happen. When I felt my heart pumping, my hands started to sweat. No matter what happened, I didn’t want it to be what it turned out to be.

"What the heck is that?" I had feared the worst.

For some reason, I became convinced that my father had somehow gotten through to him and persuaded him to discontinue our relationship in order to maintain their friendship. Because my thoughts were racing and my heart was pounding, I put my hand on the wall to stabilize myself. When Willie started speaking, I was relieved that I had thought to brace myself against something.

"Certainly." His voice trembled as he approached me and he said, "I’m here. I need to speak with your daughter. As he spoke, he clasped my hand tightly in his. Eliza, you may be surprised to hear this, but I love you."

Even though I was clinging to the wall, my knees gave out and I almost fell to my death.

"I love you," he whispered, and we both burst into a shaky smile as he continued. "Eliza, you have my utmost admiration. Finally, I’ve made my point. And just stating it lifts my spirits tremendously."

I said, "I – I love you too," despite the fact that I was afraid I was going to pass out from the stress of it all.

I was able to reciprocate Willie’s affections for me right there in my family’s dining room. My parents were around at the time? Does this feel real? The question remains: Was this some sort of sinister prank? Do we live in a different universe? What on earth was going on?

I swiveled around to face my mother, who was beaming a big grin and wiping away tears from her eyes. I felt her hard grip on my father’s hand as she squeezed it tightly. I was surprised by how well my father seemed to be managing this scenario despite the fact that he was still grimacing. However, he was able to avoid punching Julian.

Turning aside, Willie knelt in front of me on the ground. Some extra time was needed for my brain to process and comprehend what I was seeing. My realization wasn’t complete until I saw Willie holding the ring from the box.

Tears welled up in my eyes as I stared across at my father in disbelief.

Willie wanted to know, so I said yes, "Will you do me the pleasure of being my wife, Eliza?" he asked, grasping my hand in his. After asking your father’s approval earlier, he has granted our request."

"Seriously? Yes! Yes!" When the big rock was placed on my finger, my thoughts and body went from joy to shock in a split second. My response was, "Of course." When we kissed when he was standing, I still felt like I was going to faint.

"When? How?" I couldn’t even construct a coherent thought when I asked the inquiry.

"Earlier this evening, I received a phone call from your father asking to talk with me. Then, when we finally got together today. " In order to better focus his attention on me, Willie shoved my hair out of my eyes. "We’ve come to an arrangement, Eliza. After we came to an arrangement, he now understands. He sees the truth of our situation. What we are dealing with here isn’t just some old man preying on a helpless young lady."

"Daddy?" My query got a little out of hand. Is this correct?

He finally cracked a smile as he said, "It is." Honestly, I only want the best for you, sweetheart! As an added bonus, Julian is a really cool dude. He was one of the most admirable individuals I’ve ever met. If you two are in love, I’m all for them being together. It will simply take a little time for me to get used to it and feel comfortable with it. However, I’ll get there in the end. Honey, I need your patience."

I couldn’t believe what I was hearing. Even though he didn’t strictly forbid us from having a romantic relationship, my father was okay with us getting married. Even in my wildest fantasies, I could never have envisioned something like that happening to me.

Mom said, "Are you happy?" to which I replied, "Yes."

With tears streaming down my cheeks, I replied, "Yes, absolutely." I’m getting married to the love of my life! How could I not be happy?