The Property Brokers: A Billionaire Romance

by Sandi Lynn

  “How did it go?” Mitch asked.

  “I got the building.”

  “That’s great, Myles. Where do you want me to take you?”

  “To the office.”

  I pulled out my phone and called Grant.

  “Hey, Dad.”

  “Are you at the office?”

  “Bella and I are headed there now.”

  “When I get in, I need to talk to you.”

  “Okay. I need to talk to you too.”

  “Go up to my office and wait for me. I’ll be there soon.”

  When I arrived at the building, I went straight to my office and found Grant sitting behind my desk talking on his cell phone.

  “Thanks, Linda. I’ll have my office draw up the paperwork so you can get it to over to your buyer. I’ll be in touch.” He ended the call and stood up from my chair.

  “What did you want to talk about?” Grant asked as he took the seat across from my desk.

  “You first, son.”

  “Bella and I talked last night, and I’ve decided I’m going to help Cassandra.”

  “And how do you plan on doing that?” I leaned back in my chair and placed my hands behind my head.

  “I’m going to become an investor in her company and help her find a new place.”

  “I see.”

  “I didn’t want to do it behind your back. That’s why I’m telling you first before I have a talk with her.”

  “I appreciate that, son. But it’s already been taken care of.”

  “What do you mean?” His brows furrowed.

  “I bought the building, so Cassandra and her bakery can stay.”

  “What? Wait a minute. Tatum Sterling owns that building. How the hell did you get him to agree to sell it to you after your history with him? The man hates you.”

  “In exchange for his building, I’m signing the West 37th building over to him.”

  His jaw dropped as a look of shock swept over him.

  “But your hotel plans—”

  “This was more important. Another building will come up, eventually.”

  “You did that? You really did that?”

  “Yes, son. I did.”

  “So that means—”

  “Yes, Grant. Cassandra Peters is very important to me. I don’t know if she’ll forgive me though for what I’ve done and said to her.”

  “Say it, Dad. I want to hear you say it.”

  “Grant—”

  “I’m serious. Say it.”

  “Fine. I’m in love with that woman. Are you happy now?”

  “Yes.” A wide grin crossed his lips. “When are you going to tell her?”

  “After the contracts are signed and the titles are transferred.”

  “I’m so proud of you, Dad.”

  “Yeah. Yeah. Get out of here and go sell some real estate.” I gave him a smirk.

  Bella

  I was sitting at my desk with Cody when Grant walked into the office.

  “You are never going to believe—” we both said at the same time.

  “You first.” Grant smiled as he walked over to me.

  “Cassandra just called, and the new building owner told her there was a change of plans and she can stay right where she is!”

  “I know. That’s what I was just about to tell you. My father bought the building.”

  “You’re kidding. Grant, that’s wonderful!”

  “Yeah, and you’re never going to believe how he obtained it.”

  “How?”

  “The man who owned the building used to be a good friend of my dad’s. Several years ago, they had a falling out over a piece of property. My dad kind of stole it out from under him. Anyway, they haven’t spoken since, and Tatum Sterling hated my father. In order to get the building, my father agreed to hand over the West 37th building.”

  “The one he just purchased for his hotel?”

  “Yeah.”

  “Wow. That had to be hard for him. But that must mean—” Her lips gave way to a bright smile.

  “It does. He admitted it to me. Apparently, you must have knocked some sense into that thick head of his with your little rant yesterday.”

  She stood up from her chair and wrapped her arms around my neck.

  “I think we both did.” Her lips pressed against mine.

  Chapter 40

  Myles

  I stopped by the florist and picked up a dozen red roses for Cassandra. My heart was beating out of my chest and my nerves were at their peak, for I wasn’t sure how she was going to react. Mitch pulled up to the curb across the street and I watched and waited for the last customer to leave the bakery. Climbing out of the car, I ran across the street and stepped inside before she had a chance to lock the door.

  “I’m sorry, but we’re—” She turned around and stopped when she saw me standing there.

  “Closed? I know.” I turned and locked the door.

  “What are you doing here, Myles?”

  “I brought these for you, Cassandra.”

  “Why?” Her tone was cold.

  “Because I want to apologize to you, and I miss you.” I walked over and handed her the roses.

  She took them from me and brought them up to her nose.

  “They’re beautiful. Thank you. But I can’t accept them.”

  “Stop it.” I smirked. “Yes, you can, and you will. Plus, I’m not leaving until I’ve said what I came to say.”

  “I really don’t want to hear what you have to say.”

  “Well, I’m going to say it anyway. I’m sorry, Cassandra. I’m sorry for hurting you the way I did. I was scared.”

  “Scared of what? Me?” She pointed to herself.

  “No. Scared of us and what was happening. You know how I feel about relationships. But with you and the time we spent together, my views started to change, and that frightened me. It rattled me to my core if you want the truth.”

  “Fine. I’m sorry I scared you off. Now, do us both a favor and leave.”

  “For the love of God, woman. Will you please let me finish saying what I have to say?”

  “Well make it quick. I want to go home. It’s been a long day.”

  “First, I need you to sign some paperwork.” I set the envelope I held in my hand down.

  “What paperwork? What are you talking about, Myles?”

  “Open the envelope.”

  “For God sakes,” she huffed as she picked it up and took out the paperwork. “This looks like a lease.”

  “It is. It’s your new lease for the bakery.”

  “I don’t understand. It says The Roman Group is the landlord.” She looked up at me.

  “That’s right. I’m your new landlord, and I need you to sign that so I can file it. When I found out you were being evicted, I contacted the new owner and bought the building. I wasn’t about to let you lose this place and give up your dream.”

  “Myles,” she spoke in a mere whisper. “I don’t know what—”

  “You don’t need to say anything, Cassandra. I wish you would have called me when you found out.”

  “You know why I couldn’t. Why does it say the amount for the rent is zero?”

  “Because I own the building, and I can charge whatever I want.” I gave her a smirk.

  “Myles, you don’t have to do this.”

  I walked over behind the counter and placed my hands on her shoulders.

  “I know I don’t. I want to. The money doesn’t matter to me, Cassandra. The only thing that matters is you. I was such an asshole and I’m sorry.” I inhaled a deep breath. “I am in love with you, and I will do anything to make you happy. You bring out the best in me, woman.”

  “Oh, Myles.” She wrapped her arms around my neck. “I’m in love with you too, you big dummy.”

  “So, you forgive me?”

  “Yes. I forgive you.” Her lips met mine. “How can I not?”

  “You have no idea how happy that makes me. Now, let me help you close this place up for th
e night so I can take you home and we can celebrate properly.”

  “Good idea. I can’t wait to get you in my bed.” She smiled.

  Four Months Later

  Bella

  “I want to show you something,” Grant said as he held my hand and led me upstairs.

  “Mhm. I can’t wait.”

  “You’re dirty, Miss Marcus.” He turned and smiled at me.

  “I learned from the best.”

  We stepped into the bedroom, and he opened his closet door.

  “You’re so kinky wanting to do it in your closet,” I said.

  “Bella, get your mind off sex. Look.”

  “You cleaned your closet?” I arched my brow at him.

  “Yes. I cleaned it for you. See all the empty space? That’s where you’re going to put your things. Follow me.” He led me into the bathroom. “You can have all these drawers.”

  “Mr. Grant Roman, are you asking me to move in with you?” I smiled as I wrapped my arms around his neck.

  “I am. I know we practically live together as it is, but wouldn’t you love to live here full time. I know your lease is up.”

  “You do realize Duchess is coming with me, right?”

  “Yes. I know.” He sighed. “I had a little chat with her the other night while you were in the shower, and she told me that she’d love to live here.”

  “She did?”

  “Yep. She said she couldn’t wait to leave her white fur all over this place.”

  I let out a laugh.

  “That’s a big sacrifice you’re making,” I said.

  “That’s because I love you, and I would sacrifice anything for you. You are that important to me, Miss Marcus.”

  “I would sacrifice anything for you too, Grant. I love you so much, and I would love to move in with you.”

  “You need to promise me something,” he said.

  “Anything.”

  “No more cats.”

  “Deal. No more cats.” Our lips met.

  “Is sex still on your mind?” He smirked.

  “It always is when I’m with you.” I grinned.

  “Good. Same goes for me.” I lifted her up and set her on the bathroom counter as my mouth smashed into hers.

  Myles

  “That was a wonderful dinner, Cassandra. Thank you.” I kissed her lips.

  “You’re welcome. I’m happy you enjoyed it.”

  “I like having you here and, in my kitchen,” I said as my hands gripped her hips.

  “Is the kitchen the only place you like having me?” A smirk crossed her lips.

  “Well. I like having you on the couch, on the floor in front of the fireplace, and up against that wall over there. But mostly, I like it when you’re snuggled against me in my bed.”

  “You’re so romantic, Mr. Roman.” She brushed her lips against mine.

  “Move in with me, Cassandra.”

  “What?” She looked at me in shock.

  “Move in here with me. I know we never talked about living together, but it’s all I think about.”

  “You’re serious. Aren’t you?”

  “Dead serious, and I want you fully moved in this weekend. That’s if you want to move in with me.”

  “Myles, of course I do. But I’m in the middle of a lease.”

  “Have you forgotten who owns your building?” I asked as my brow raised.

  “That’s right.” She grinned. Yes. I will move in with you.” Her lips pressed against mine. “Now, what were you saying about the floor in front of the fireplace?”

  I swooped her up in my arms and carried her to the living room.

  Grant

  I took the elevator up to my dad’s office, and when the doors opened, he was standing there.

  “Hey, are you on your way out?” I asked.

  “No. I was just coming down to see you.”

  “Oh. Well, here I am.” I grinned as I hooked my arm around him, and we went back to his office. “What were you coming to see me about?”

  “I asked Cassandra to move in with me last night, and she said yes. She will be moving in this weekend.”

  “No way. I asked Bella to move in with me last night and she’s moving in this weekend also.”

  “Wow, son. That’s great.” He gave me a hug.

  “Who would have thought, right?” I smiled as I patted his back.

  “That’s for damn sure.”

  Chapter 41

  Six Months Later

  Grant

  I stood at the altar next to my best friend, Lamar. It was hard to believe his wedding day was already here. He and Ami wasted no time in planning a wedding since their engagement three months ago.

  “Are you nervous? You look nervous,” I said as I glanced over at him.

  “A little. Does it show that bad? Can everyone else tell?”

  “Nah. Just relax, bro. You’re doing good.”

  The music started to play, and the ceremony was about to begin. I stood there and watched as my beautiful girlfriend walked down the aisle and took her place across from me as Ami’s matron of honor. I couldn’t keep my eyes off her. She was that damn gorgeous. I glanced over at Lamar when Ami started to walk down. I could see the tears in his eyes, which made mine tear up. After the minister said a few beautiful words, it was time for their vows. Taking the ring out of my pocket, I handed it to Lamar. I wouldn’t say I wasn’t choked up as they recited their vows to each other.

  The ceremony ended and the four of us went and took pictures in Central Park. After, we headed to the reception at the Sofitel Hotel where we celebrated the newly wedded couple.

  “I can’t believe it, bro. I finally married the girl of my dreams.” Lamar smiled.

  “That you did, my brother.” I patted his back.

  It was time for Ami and Lamar’s first dance as husband and wife. As I stood next to Bella, her phone dinged, and when she looked at it, she had a big smile on her face.

  “Why on earth do you have your phone out right now?” I asked.

  “Shush. I’m working on a deal.” She typed away on her phone.

  “I don’t think this is the time or place, babe.”

  “When you’re trying to sell a $70 million dollar penthouse, it’s always the right time and place, Grant.”

  My god, she was worse than I was.

  As soon as their dance was over, Ami and Lamar stood on the dance floor while the DJ made an announcement.

  “The lovely newlyweds have requested that the following people join them on the dance floor. So come on over: Grant Roman, Bella Marcus, Myles Roman and Cassandra Peters.

  “Us?” Bella asked as she looked over at me.

  “Yes, love. Us. Now put your phone away and join me for a dance.”

  “I have nowhere to put it and my purse is across the room. I’ll just hold it while we dance.” She scrunched her nose up at me. The four of us joined Ami and Lamar on the dance floor and the song You Want To Make A Memory started to play.

  “Did you do this?” She smiled at me.

  “Who me? No.” I grinned.

  “Liar. I love you, Grant.”

  “I love you too, babe.”

  As soon as the song ended, I looked over at my dad and gave him a nod.

  “Can I please ask everyone for a moment of silence,” the DJ spoke.

  As soon as the room went silent, I looked at Bella.

  “Bella.” I took hold of her hand. “I am so in love with you, and I thank God every single day for bringing you back into my life. The day I saw you by the pool in Hawaii when we were just sixteen years old, you had already stolen my heart. And then when I saw you again fourteen years later in the foyer of my open house, you stole it even more.”

  “Grant,” she looked around, “what’s going on?”

  “I can’t imagine living the rest of my life without you in it. You are the very air I breath and you’re the reason my heart beats.”

  I looked over at my dad and he took hold of Cassandra’s hand
.

  “Cassandra, I have never met a woman like you before. The moment I stepped through the door of your bakery, you captivated me with your extraordinary beauty. You are a beautiful woman with a beautiful soul and I’m so in love with you. You have given me hope, faith, and so much love. Every day spent with you is a day of sunshine, and I can’t imagine my life without you.”

  We both reached into our pockets, pulled out the rings and got down on one knee in front of the women we loved so much.

  “Bella, will you marry me?”

  “Cassandra, will you marry me?”

  Suddenly, in the dead silence that was in the room, Bella’s phone dinged.

  “YES!”

  “Is that a yes to my question or the deal you just made?” I arched my brow at her.

  “Oh my God. Yes, Grant. Yes, I will marry you!”

  “Yes, Myles. I will definitely marry you!” Cassandra shrieked.

  Everyone in the room stood up and clapped for us. Bella threw her arms around me, and I picked her up and swung her around.

  “How much?” I asked.

  “$69.5” She grinned.

  “Congratulations, future Mrs. Grant Roman.”

  “Thank you, my wonderful husband to be.” Our lips met.

  I set her down as she and Cassandra hugged each other, and my dad and I hugged each other.

  “We pulled it off, son.”

  “I know, Dad. We did good.”

  “What was that all about with Bella?”

  “She just closed a deal for $69.5 million on the Park Place Penthouse.”

  “Damn.” He grinned. “Just now? Here at the wedding?”

  “Yep.”

  “I am proud to be able to call that woman my daughter-in-law.” He patted my back.

  Chapter 42

  Bella

  Six months later, Grant and I were married along with Myles and Cassandra on the golden sands of Wailea beach in Maui. It was the perfect double wedding ceremony under a beautiful arch made up of sweet smelling plumeria flowers with our closest friends.

  “Congratulations, Mrs. Roman.” Cassandra hugged me.

  “Congratulations to you too, Mrs. Roman.” I grinned.