THE BILLIONAIRE'S GIRLFRIEND

THIRTY EIGHT

"I'll go with my heart," Malora announced to Mika three days later over brunch. They were seated at the front window of Kreme's a place that sold ice-cream and tooth-decaying treats.

The last three days have been spent dogging the press, as well as popping into the police station on demand. It was grueling and harrowing. Mika resolved to stay with her until they got the all clear to take Lorena's body for burial. It shouldn't be long now, though.

Since the weather was a bit sunny today, Malora opted to dress in a well-pressed charocaol pant suit and green silk blouse. She'd had the common sense to take a coat, though, because one couldn't predict the London weather. Mika, on the other hand, was dressed in a knee-length floral dress, chunky boots and thick Jean jacket.

Mika was watching her now with what Malora could only describe as relief. "Finally."

Malora nodded, although she did not smile. It had taken a lot of consideration and tears. In the privacy of the hotel bathroom, she'd let herself mourn for her sister, nephew and parents. Then, finally, she'd cried for herself. Mika was right, as always. For once, she was going to do something for herself; even if it was against her sister's wish. Rena was probably turning in her grave for this decision Malora was about to make. It was just as well.

But Malora needed answers from Titan. She was done running and letting other people bully her into what they wished for. She was done being a pushover. She would lay it all bare before and refuse to take 'no' for an answer. If he did not like it, he could deal with it.

Doubt casted a shadow over her mind. "Am I dishonouring Lorena by doing this?"

Mika pursed her lips, spoon paused half-way to her mouth. "Are you seriously going back to this now?"

"But—"

"But nothing." She dropped her spoon into her half-empty cup, reached over the table to grab Malora's hand. "If it's what you want, then I say go for it. Life is all about risk. If you keep living to please other people, you'll be hurt. So, instead of asking yourself 'what ifs' start telling yourself I'll do it, instead."

Malora nodded and squeezed her friend's hand."Thank you." There was so much packed behind those two words that was unspoken, but Mika got it and so in turn squeezed Malora's hand, too.

"You're welcome, strong woman."

Malora laughed at that. Her first laugh since Lorena died. "I'll take that as a compliment."

"I intended it as one."

Malora pushed away her untouched treats and pushed to her feet, reaching for her purse and coat and the same time. "I better go now before I lose my courage."

"Very well." Mika nodded. "Call the hotel if anything comes up."

"I will." Malora left the ice-cream parlor before her courage deserted her and hurried to get a cab.

On the way to the office, Malora practiced her speech and entrance. She was going to shake Titan Pitts' world today and she was going to have fun doing it. She gave herself a pep talk to hold back her tears. There was no need for the water works when she had alot to be said. Maybe tears wasn't a sign of weakness, but it sure did get in the way of important things to be said.

The cab came to a stop in front of the familiar steel and glass building, and Malora hurried into the building. The beautiful and polished receptionist—a male, this time—sat up straighter when he saw her. A plastic smile curled his thin lips and both brows rose in a move meant to communicate  pleasure but showed surprise instead. At least he wasn't disgusted.