A Nice Girl's Guide to a Billionaire's Heart : A Christmas Love Triangle

By A.R. Lain

Veronica wasn't ready for an office romance, but sometimes fate is hard to avoid… especially when you work for two handsome billionaires!

Veronica has only been working at her firm for a few months but she's already been tagged as the nice, boring girl of the office.

When her two bosses make her presence to the office Christmas party mandatory, Veronica find herself caught into a steamy love triangle.

Which of the two men will melt her heart?

• Language: English
• Publisher: A.R. Lain
• Release date: Dec 8, 2021
• ISBN: 9798201502034

A.R. Lain

<h1>About the Author</h1> <p>     A.R. Lain writes about witty heroines going through the trials of becoming adult, losing their innocence, and learning about themselves on the way.     Handsome strangers cloaked in mystery make the journey more difficult… but also infinitely more rewarding! </p> <p>     A self-proclaimed thrill seeker, A.R. Lain left her corporate job years ago on a quest for happiness and adventures. She believes in the unmistakable     chemistry of love and in chasing this elusive dragon. She wants to share her appetite for self-discovery by writing thrilling stories of romance and     passion. </p>

Book preview

A Nice Girl's Guide To A Billionaire's Heart

A Christmas Love Triangle

By

A.R. Lain

A Nice Girl's Guide To A Billionaire's Heart

A Christmas Love Triangle

Copyright 2021 A.R. Lain

This book is licensed for your personal enjoyment only.

This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental.

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

A year later...

To My Wonderful Readers

More books by A.R. Lain

About the Author

Chapter 1

I hope everyone is ready for tonight’s Christmas ball, Carl Wynter said over the crowd’s chatter. Mid-thirties, white smile, square jaw and a body still testifying his past glory as the rowing team captain of his alma mater, the handsome CEO of the Wynter & Snow Industries was the epitome of success.

Her writing pad held as a shield before her, Veronica tried to make her way among the crowd gathered into the large lunch room of the office for the announcement. Pardon me, she whispered timidly. Please... pardon me.

The place had been decorated for the occasion, and between the four gigantic Christmas trees gracing every corner of the room and the plethora of carefully chosen religion neutral decorations that had been plastered on every single blank square inch of the walls, it was hard not to feel crushed by the holiday spirit.

Veronica progressed slowly into the sea of suits. Everyone was focused on Carl, and no one paid attention to the young assistant trying to reach her boss. Had they known she was carrying everyone’s bonus, they might have been more inclined to clear a path for her.

You all earned it, Carl continued to address the crowd in this bold but warm voice of his. We had a tremendous quarter, once again, and it’s because of your hard work. His bright smile swept over the crowd, and people started to applaud.

Veronica stood on the tip of her toes to get a better view of the small stage that had been erected for this annual tradition. Standing at Carl’s side was Blake Snow, the stern and serious half of the company. The two men had merged their empires years ago, and had carved themselves a cozy little spot at the top of New York’s list of most eligible bachelors.

Whatever the rumors were saying, it was clear to Veronica that there was something wrong with them. Two men like that couldn't possibly remain single for so long without a dark secret lurking somewhere...

Yet she had been working as Carl’s personal assistant for three months already, and she still didn’t have any more hindsight to offer about the two men than what everyone could read in Page Six.

Tonight’s ball is for you! Carl’s voice boomed in the lunch room over the applauses and the cheerful whistles. It’s our way to show you how much we appreciate your dedication.

Right, thought Veronica. Because nothing says ‘thank you’ like a ridiculously extravagant party. The firm had a reputation when it came to the office Christmas ball. She had heard that the two mens had once rented a cruise ship and that the whole office had sailed the Hudson River for two days before being brought back to their homes and families in limousines.

Only rich people would think that an appropriate reward for a year of honest work.

Veronica finally reached the stage and waved at her boss discreetly. Three months as the man’s assistant and she still blushed like a schoolgirl in his presence.

That sinful mouth, those piercing blue eyes...

Veronica lowered her head quickly, her cheeks betraying her thoughts in red so bright it could have put Rudolph to shame.

But before we leave to get ready for tonight’s celebrations, there’s something I know you all have been waiting for. Carl aimed his ravaging smiled at Veronica. Miss Weiss, please, join me on the stage.

Veronica shot a nervous glance all around. I... err... Her heart was pounding, and the crimson of her cheeks was starting to spread to the rest of her body.

Please, Carl, said a young red-head that had been standing next to Veronica. Don’t embarrass the poor girl! she said with a false hint of reproach.

Beth had been Blake’s assistant for over two years now, but it was common knowledge that she thought she was working for the wrong man. Beth turned to Veronica. Her lips were painted in a magnetic shade of red that commanded attention and bestowed a strange kind of weight to her words. The only thing in the room competing with it was the depth of her cleavage. Let me, she said with a wink as she took the envelopes from Veronica’s hands.

Veronica stood there helplessly while Beth climbed the stage to join Carl and Blake, her hips rolling hypnotically at the crowd.

Thank you, Beth, Carl said with a radiant smile.

Veronica felt Blake’s eyes on her, and her cheeks burst once again. It had been like that pretty much from the beginning with Beth. It’s my pleasure, Carl, the woman said with a beguiling smile.

The way she talked with such familiarity as if she owned the place. ‘It’s my pleasure, Carl...’  Veronica swallowed her bitterness and tried to push her frustration away. She had promised herself she wouldn’t fall prey to Beth’s game.

She didn’t want to become that kind of girl. Besides, it was a day for celebration, not petty competition.

As the newest hire, Veronica didn’t qualify for a bonus this year. Thank god, she thought to herself as she watched the procession of employees being called on the stage one by one to receive their envelope.

Besides, Carl had been more than generous to her. A sweet box of pears from Harry and David and an even sweeter raise was all Veronica had wished for. That, and escaping the public display that was currently dragging on...

It truly was a day for celebration.

Carl was charming as always, exchanging a few words with everyone as if he knew them all personally. Blake, on the other hand, remained slightly withdrawn in the shadow, his handshake barely accompanied by a sharp nod.

Those two couldn’t have been any more different from each other’s, but it seemed to work for them: Carl acted as the personable face of the company —attending galas and ribbon ceremonies— while Blake served as the bringer of bad news —holding the press conferences when something was about to hit the fan.

***

The ceremony morphed into a reception, and the crowd started to scatter a bit.

Veronica looked around for a familiar face, but the truth was she hadn’t really made any friends yet. Being the boss’s direct assistant had its drawback.

First, there was the hours —long and leaving little place for a social life. Second, people didn’t trust you. They imagined everything they might say or do in your presence would end up in a report.

And they weren’t entirely wrong when it came down to Beth. She was milking every ounce of power that came with the position to her advantage.

Veronica was hanging around the buffet, sipping a glass of sparkling apple cider and waiting for lunch to end when she heard a familiar voice calling her name.

Miss Weiss! Carl said. Please join us.

His entourage was composed of Blake and Beth, as always, as well as a little crowd of bootlickers that had gathered around, hanging on his every word.

We were talking about tonight’s party. I hope you’re ready, we prepared quite a night...

You should know your assistant better, Carl, Beth snickered, grabbing his left arm as if they were an item. Ronnie’s not the party type...

Veronica felt the sparkling cider rising and tickling her nose unpleasantly. Only her father ever called her Ronnie. It felt offensive coming from anyone else but him.

Is that right? Carl frowned, his deep stare still locked on Veronica.

No! Veronica protested. She didn’t plan to go, but it had nothing to do with whether or not she was a ‘party girl.'

This type of party just wasn’t really her style.

Or any other type of party, for that matter.

Veronica drooped her head down and bit her lower lip. Damn, she thought. Am I in a rut? At 25?

It’s a date, then, Carl said, a hint of amusement easily discernible through his formal countenance. She couldn’t look at him without blushing, but Veronica could guess the roguish grin curving his sensual mouth. Or I will start to think Miss Sollers is right about you...

Veronica mustered just enough strength to look right back at him. Of course, she said, slight tremors in her voice. I wouldn’t miss it.

Beth gave her a dubious glare, but she tried her best to hide it behind a fake smile. I don’t think I recall seeing your address on any of the limo itineraries... Are you sure you answered the RSVP email I sent everyone two weeks ago?

Veronica opened her mouth, figuring it might be the escape she needed, but Carl answered before she could.

Come on now Beth, it’s a ball, not a dinner at Masa. I’m sure we can add Miss Weiss to the guest list and find a car to pick her up.

Beth pursed her lips in a disdainful manner. Of course. She turned towards Veronica and winked at her. I’m sure the limo company won’t mind sending an extra car to your house. You live on the island, right?

Veronica shook her head. Red Hook.

She wasn’t sure if it was her imagination, but Veronica thought she had heard a collective sigh of pity from everyone around.

I’m sure I can arrange something, Beth said. She looked genuinely sorry, and Veronica found it even more grating than her usual fake manners. I mean, it’s office party season and limo services are swamped, but...

I can take public transports, Veronica said, figuring it was the best way to put an end to this embarrassing conversation. Why was everyone still hanging on their words as if it was of any interest?

Please, Carl said. This is a Wynter & Snow party we’re talking about. He shot Veronica an enigmatic smile. Miss Weiss, a car will be in front of your house at 9 pm sharp tonight.

He turned towards the crowd and clapped his hands together. Everyone, he said as silence fell on the room. I think it’s safe to say no critical business will be conducted this afternoon. I’ve seen the bottles of egg nog that have been passed around... he swiped the crowd with a falsely severe look. That stuff is strong enough you can smell it from a distance. He chuckled. So please, enjoy the afternoon. Go back home. And get ready for tonight.

Whispers of surprise traveled the lunch room, and everyone turned to Blake looking for confirmation. This one gave his best friend a stern look but finally lifted his cup. Merry Christmas.

Cheers exploded in the lunch room, and people started to rush towards the exit. Beth pressed herself against Carl to avoid being crushed by the hasty crowd. Her heaving breasts brushed his chest, practically threatening to spill out of her dress, but Carl simply helped her straighten herself.

Miss Sollers, Miss Weiss, he said with a nod of departure. I will see you tonight.

Beth gave him her most openly enticing smile. Sure will.

Blake nodded at them and followed Carl out.

Veronica cheered internally at how little Carl seemed to be swayed by Beth’s disgustingly obvious attempts at seduction.

You’ll see, Veronica thought to herself. You’re not the only one who can pull off the red lips and the slutty dress...

She didn’t know why it suddenly felt so important to prove Beth wrong, but she was animated by a fire she hadn’t known in quite a while.

Chapter 2

Ricky, I think I’m in trouble! Veronica said as she closed the heavy door of her apartment and let herself sink to the floor.

What is it, hun? Rick said, taking a peak from over his computer desk and the half circles of his glasses. Someone finally figured out that there’s a babe hiding under those sad garbs of yours and you need to file for harassment?

Rick and Veronica had met in kindergarten. Rick had offered her a very fine illustrated recollection of the adventures of Amelia Earhart in exchange for one of Veronica’s Barbies. They had been the best of friends since that deal had gone down for the benefit of both parties.

Now twenty years later, it had only seemed normal to move in together as both their careers brought them to New York —him as a freelance sartorial writer and photographer and her... as the overqualified personal assistant of a wealthy businessman.

Don’t be ridiculous, Veronica sighed.

What is it then? Rick said as he got up to join her. What kind of trouble can a nice girl like you really be in?

I... I... Veronica started, feeling the panic snowballing in her throat.

Rick put a gentle hand on her arm. Calm down, he said softly. It can’t be that bad...

Really? How is this for bad: I have this party in a few hours, and I have nothing to wear, and I really don’t want to go— she took a little breath in —and that bitch Beth will eat me alive if I can’t give a convincing performance as a ‘party girl’ and everyone in the office will be watching. She took a longer breath. And I think I might be falling for my boss...

Oh my, Rick said, taken aback. "You are in trouble. He took his glasses off and placed one tip on his lips as he studied Veronica. Tell me, which boss are you talking about? The pretty boss or the brooding boss?"

Veronica’s shoulders fell a couple of inches. What does it change? It’s not as if I had a chance with either of them.

"Trust