This Billionaire's Wife: This Billionaire, #23

By Rachel Foster

Kurt and Lucy were high school sweethearts who were married right out of high school. Their love seemed perfect, but Lucy couldn't deal with the amount of time that Kurt spent traveling and working. One evening after returning from a business trip, he comes home to an empty house and a note telling him she's leaving him and their marriage is over. She stays in their hometown with all their friends and family while he quickly leaves for the city. Now it's 6 years later and Kurt is desperate to make the divorce official before a big business deal goes through so that he doesn't have to share any of it with her. Now she's back in town to sign the papers, but instead he ends up falling for her all over again. Will he push for her signature to have more money or will he give love a second chance? 

• Language: English
• Publisher: 3rd Publishing
• Release date: Mar 7, 2023
• ISBN: 9798215695777

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This Billionaire's Wife

Rachel Foster

Copyright © 2018 by Rachel Foster

All rights reserved.

No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without written permission from the author, except for the use of brief quotations in a book review.

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

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Epilogue

1

K

urt

The city of Nashville was in full swing beyond my office window. I sidled up to the pane and pressed my forehead to it, blinking lazily at the traffic passing on the street below Smartway Industries. I had spent more time in this office than any other place in the city. In fact, I favored it above all else, save for that wonderful Cuban bakery a few blocks away.

Most of my best work had been created in this very space. I turned to observe it, noticing the fern plants in the corner of the room closest to the window appearing somewhat limp and haggard. I went to the sink, filled a cup with water, and poured it into the pot of the fern plant. As I stroked the leaves, I considered the McGregor deal that was coming up.

Lucy is not getting a penny of that damn deal, I reflected with conviction. And I'll make sure that she never sees another dime.

I stood up and wandered back to my desk to shuffle around a few pages. I tucked the pages into a folder, slipped it into my accordion organizer, and placed the organizer into my satchel. I searched the bottom left drawer for a few more files I would need on my trip. Within minutes, I was nearly ready to leave.

Sir?

I glanced up to find my secretary, Jane, standing with a look of confusion all over her face. She was a tall woman, poised, with wiry glasses that slid down the bridge of her long nose. Her thin eyebrows arched high into her forehead as if to ask what the heck I was doing.

Don't be alarmed, Jane, I assured her. I'm not leaving.

Then what are you doing?

I slid my satchel over my shoulder and adjusted the strap. Taking a little trip.

Where to?

There's no way to lie to you, is there?

She laughed suddenly, the symphonic sound floating through the room like a well-synchronized orchestra. Her golden bracelets jingled against her left wrist as she raised her hand to her heart. She appeared to be pledging, but in reality, she was likely trying to steady herself.

I smiled warmly. I'll be back as soon as I handle some personal business.

I respect that, sir.

Truthfully, Jane, Franz and I are supposed to be closing on that McGregor deal in a couple of weeks and... I paused while observing the office window once more. My wife still hasn't signed our divorce papers. I want her to do that before the deal happens.

Your...wife? She blinked blankly at me for a few moments before she sighed out, "You have a wife?"

I know. Shocker, eh?

She chuckled nervously. I didn't take you for the married type, sir.

I hope that's not due to any inappropriate behavior.

Not at all, Mr. Morgan. I mean to say that I haven't seen you wear a ring.

I laughed and then nodded. Well, we've been separated for a while. I haven't mentioned her because it hasn't been important until now.

I understand, Mr. Morgan.

Will you water my fern while I'm gone? She'll probably get better treatment from you than me. I tend to be forgetful.

She smiled. Of course, sir. I'll be happy to mind your plant while you're gone. Would you like me to look into some fake plants for the future?

Actually, that's not a bad idea.

I'll take care of it right away.

I nodded while lifting my briefcase. I appreciate you, Jane.

Is there anything else I can do for you while you're gone?

Yes, one more thing, I said as I drew close to her. Don't mention this to anyone, okay? I don't want people knowing my personal business.

Of course, sir.

I'm hoping that personally delivering the papers to her will encourage her to sign them. This whole...separation has been going on far longer than I prefer.

She nodded. Your secret is safe with me.

Thank you, Jane. Go ahead and buy yourself something this weekend. Put it on my card. Consider it a bonus for your silence.

Thank you, sir.

I smiled as I swept past her and headed down the hall.

Good luck! she called after me. Safe travels!

I could hear the anxiety in her voice because I felt it rattling the inside of my chest. I was going to need all the luck in the world just to approach Lucy. I had no idea how she would react to seeing me, let alone seeing the divorce papers in person. Although I had my lawyer send her copy after copy, she seemed to ignore them, once even mailing them back as if the address were wrong.

But I knew her better than that. She was stalling.

And to what end? I considered as I took the elevator down to the ground floor. It's not like it benefits either of us to drag this out. It only makes it that much more painful.

I took a deep breath as the doors parted to allow me entry to the ground floor. I bid the guard good evening and walked confidently out the door, wandering down the sidewalk to the company parking lot. I dumped my bags in the backseat of my Lexus and hopped into the driver's seat, turning the key in the ignition immediately.

I didn't bother with the seat belt. I wasn't going particularly far. My lawyer's office was just up the road from Smartway, and I would be there within minutes. Any cops who might dare pull me over would simply wave me away with a warning. It was one of the perks of being one of the most affluent men in Nashville—hell, maybe even in the entire state of Tennessee.

I pulled up to Burgess, Dutch & Weaver Law Offices and parked in the first available space. I sighed as I reached into the backseat for my briefcase. I wanted to make this as quick as possible. I had to catch my flight later on. As I swept up to the polished double doors, I caught my reflection in the glass. I smoothed my hair back and walked inside, wandering past the secretary who gave me a nod of greeting.

I knocked on the door frame of Wesley's office. He perked up at his desk and then smiled, waving me inside.

Good afternoon, Kurt, he said. How are you?

I'm as good as I can ever be.

He nodded. I can imagine.

So, why did you ask?

Isn't it polite to ask?

I chuckled and nodded playfully. Sure.

I figured you could use a laugh, but it doesn't seem to be working. Is this about Lucy?

Why else would I have you draw up a new packet of divorce papers?

He hummed thoughtfully as he plucked the freshly printed pages from the printer on his desk. He tapped them against his desk, sighed, and then handed them over to me with a pen.

How do you think you'll convince her? he asked. I mean, it's been six years.

"Well, I could start with the fact that she's the one who left."

Wesley nodded. That's always a good place to start.

How would you do it?

Honestly? I'm not sure. I've never been in that situation.

I snorted with amusement as I looked over the legalese. No typos. You're the best, Wesley.

Only the best for my best paying client.

I need this done ASAP. If she doesn't sign, what else can I do?

He nodded his head side to side as he looked above my head, focusing on the painting hanging up behind me.

He shrugged. We'll have to take it to court. If she doesn't sign and files an uncontested response, the court may proceed.

So, it could still happen?

It could, but not as quickly as you would want.

I sighed as my shoulders slumped forward. I slipped to the last page and looked at the two separate lines where our names were printed underneath. I slid the pen over the line above my printed name with a flourish. My signature looked like a work of art. And it should. I had spent years developing my signature for business deals. It was elegant, unique, and legible unlike most of my co-workers.

I slid the papers back for Wesley to notarize.

I can't wait that long, I admitted. I only have a couple of weeks.

Maybe appearing in person could help.

I nodded. That's why I'm going down there.

To Miami? Huh, you ought to get a tan.

Are you saying I'm pale, Wesley?

He laughed. I'm saying it could do you some good to get some sun. You're looking a little tired.

Ugh, that means I'm looking old.

Oh, I wouldn't dare agree with that, Kurt. Hit the beach. Have a few drinks. Meet a pretty woman. It can be healing for the soul.

I hummed thoughtfully. You know, that's not a bad idea.

I commend you for being single for so long, but I think it's high time you jumped back on the dating train.

Are you telling me as my lawyer or as my friend?

He chuckled. Both. It's both.

I'll see what I can manage.

Manage it fast. Quite frankly, I think you're too tightly wound.

I laughed and shook my head while accepting the divorce papers. I popped open my briefcase and placed them carefully inside, making sure they were sandwiched between two books so they wouldn't get bent or wrinkled.

I appreciate your help today, Wesley, I said. I'm catching a flight tonight. I'll let you know how things go.

I look forward to it.

I nodded as I stood up with my briefcase and extended my hand. Take care.

You, too.

I retreated back to the parking lot with my briefcase tucked under my arm, guarding it as if it held precious cargo. And indeed, it did. The papers inside were the key to my freedom. I couldn't wait for this divorce to officially be behind me. I imagined I would sleep better, and perhaps I would work better, too.

Soon, it would be over, and I could finally move on with my life.

If she'll let me, I reflected while driving off. God help her, she better let me move on.

2

L

ucy

I sighed as I swept a wet rag over the counter. The window across from me boasted cursive black letters that read, Universal Garden Cafe. As the sun illuminated the letters, they brightened, blinding my vision briefly as I moved to the left side of the counter. The register sat to my left with the display case to my right, showing off the fresh batch of baked goods that were on sale.

Friday was our busiest day. A few regulars wandered into the cafe and I helped them with their orders, turning to Steve to shout out what needed to be made. Within minutes, we had covered our three regular clients in record time, and I went to lean against the counter next to him.

You alright there, Lucy? he asked while wiping down the counter. We haven't even gotten busy yet.

But we will.

I wonder if that cute couple will come back in.

I chuckled while turning to the front door. Maybe. They've had every one of their dates in here for the past three consecutive Fridays.

It's cute, you know? I hope I find a girl like that someday.

With colorful hair and piercings?

He laughed. Sure, why not? I mean, as long as she's a good woman and has a good head on her shoulders, I don't see why her outward image would matter much.

Well, that makes you quite different from most people.

I just think there's more important things than appearance.

I nodded with a grin. I couldn't agree more.

What about you? Do you ever think about what you want?

I shrugged. I don't do much thinking of that these days. I'm more focused on this cafe.

We're doing pretty well. If you hired a couple more people, you could take more time for yourself.

I'm sure my mother would want me to do that.

He smiled sympathetically. She was a great woman and even greater boss. She would be proud of your success, Lucy.

Thanks, Steve.

And I think she would want you to take more time for yourself. You deserve to go on a few dates.

I shrugged while retaining my grin. I'm just trying to live out her legacy and support everybody in our town.

Miami is thriving beautifully with the tourist attractions.

Yeah, and we're on the map.

He nodded. So, I think you're doing just fine, Lucy.

I appreciate the vote of confidence.

Is this all you want to do? For the rest of your life?

I huffed with amusement as I went to make myself a cup of coffee. I thought about the question for a while, wondering what else I could possibly want to do with my life. There wasn't much. I was rather content with the cafe.

I don't know, I admitted. I've been working here since high school. Ever since Mom had me help her, I've been addicted to the cafe.

That makes sense.

I love serving our regulars. And we get to see amazing things like that couple. It's like witnessing true love unfold right before our eyes.

He sighed as he joined me, grabbing his own cup of coffee. Yeah, it's nice.

And I like making specials throughout the week. It helps me flex my creative muscle.

Speaking of, it looks like Tom is waltzing in.

I rolled my eyes. Oh...Tom.

You think he'll ask for your number again?

Very likely.

He chuckled. And you'll say no again, right?

Of course, I will.

Want me to handle him?

I smiled at Steve. Actually, that would be nice. I need to go prep for lunch.

You got it, boss.

I patted his shoulder and sidled into the kitchen, enjoying the silence that bristled all around me. Though I could still hear the ding of the register and the clink of glasses on the other side of the serving window, the silence of the kitchen put me at ease. It reminded me of what I was doing, how I was serving my mother's memory.

I blinked back tears.

Come on, Lucy. It's been two years, I thought. You can't keep crying every time you talk about your mother.

But it was a useless pep talk. By the time I had finished preparing the sandwich specials, I was in the corner of the kitchen with my hand over my mouth, silencing the sobs that were shaking my chest. I took a deep breath through my nose, dropped my hand, and reached for the tissues I kept nearby.

After composing myself, I left the kitchen and went to the bathroom to wash my face. My nose was red, and my eyes were puffy from crying. I didn't want my customers to see me like this. I made sure my face wasn't swollen anymore before returning to the front counter.

Steve gave me a concerned grin. You sure you're alright?

Allergies, I lied. It's like clockwork this time of year. How did Tom do?

Not a peep about you.

That's what I like to hear.

He laughed. Want me to make you something before we get slammed?

Sure, that would be great.

He nodded and went to the kitchen. Within an hour, we got hit with our lunch rush. We busted through it as we always did, handling every customer with the same care and attention as the last. The atmosphere was bright and happy, reminding me exactly why I kept the shop since my mother had passed.

When the rush was over, I sent Steve to clean the dishes and handled cleaning up the front of the store. I glanced at the clock. We had a few more hours until we closed. Since I opened so early, I liked closing early. It gave Steve time to get his homework done and gave me time to wind down in the evenings.

Closing time came quicker than most days. We finished another rush and started cleaning up, cleaning the tables, and putting up the chairs so the floor could be mopped. A tap came from the window. I glanced up to see my two best friends, Nick and Katherine, waving for me to open the door.

I squealed and ran to the door to let them in.

I embraced Katherine first. What a surprise!

Is it too late to grab a shake? she asked. I'm craving one pretty hard.

Nah, it's never too late for you guys.

Nick smiled and hugged me. Good to see you, Lucy. How's business?

Business is great.

I gestured to an empty table behind us. As if reading my mind, Steve set the chairs on the ground and stood nearby as we sat down.

A sandwich and milkshake for each of us, I told him. Thank you, Steve. I'll give you some overtime.

Don't even sweat it, boss. I'm happy to help.

When he retreated to the kitchen, I turned to my friends. How's everything?

Katherine shrugged. Same as usual. I'm doing family photography and this old man is still doing his music gigs.

Yeah?

Nick blushed and smiled sheepishly. It's no big deal. I've just been performing at the local bar three nights a week.

Wow, that's amazing, Nick.

"I don't know about amazing, but it's starting to pay a few bills."

"I'm very glad to hear that. You have to do something with that music major of yours."

He grinned. Doing lessons has been a huge portion of my paycheck. I mean, it's not glamorous, but it's humble work.

And I've been able to do some of his album art, Katherine added. Did he tell you he's coming out with a solo acoustic album?

I gasped, "Shut up!"

Yeah, it's a thing, he admitted. But it's not that big of a deal.

"It's a huge deal, she corrected. And it's amazing. Isn't that great, Lucy? Our boy is gaining a little bit of fame."

It's incredible.

Steve returned with our order and clapped me on the shoulder. Anything else, boss?

Can you make sure the kitchen is clean?

You got it.

He sidled away, swinging a dish towel in his right hand as he whistled. I smiled after him.

What a good kid, Katherine commented. I'm glad you have him, but have you hired anyone else?

Nah, I don't need to.

She eyed me suspiciously. Lucy.

Kat, I'm doing just fine. Besides, this is about catching up, not about my job. I'm so glad you guys still pop in after all these years.

We wouldn't miss your success for the world.

Any excuse for a good shake, Nick commented with glee after a hefty sip. God, I swear, you must put some kind of drug in these things. They're addictive.

I laughed. It's just my special recipe.

Well, what is it? Is it a great family secret?

Actually, it is.

Katherine elbowed him. Hey, you can't go around asking people about their family secrets. It ain't right, man.

I was just curious.

I giggled. I'll have to agree with Kat here. I can't really tell you or else you might sell it to some big wig corporation.

"Oh, I would never."

She snorted. I wouldn't put it past him.

The three of us fell into laughter, fading as we began eating away at our sandwiches. After I had finished mine, I set my plate aside and smiled at my friends.

Thanks for coming by, I said. You know you're welcome anytime.

I wish we could see you more than here in your cafe, honey.

I shrugged. That's life.

If you had more help, you could take some time off.

I could.

She smiled warmly. So, why not try that? You've been toiling over this place for the past two years. You need a vacation.

Eh, I'll be fine, I lied with a wave of my hand. I enjoy it. It'll be okay.

Well, if you ever need some folks, I know some guys that are looking for a decent job, Nick offered. They're hard workers. It could be good for you.

I'll remember that.

They both smiled at me. Although they weren't saying so, I could tell that they were concerned. They always gave me this half-smile whenever they were worried about my well-being. And I knew I was doing fine. Other than mourning over my mother, my business has been excellent. I couldn't have asked for a better life.

Sometimes, I wonder, I considered carefully while reaching for my shake. What could I do if I did have some time off?

There's a festival next weekend, I said, trying to blink away my thoughts. Would you guys like to go?

Oh, I'd adore that, Katherine replied. We should totally take pictures while we're there!

I smiled. You can bring your camera!

Don't encourage her, Nick teased. She's been nonstop with that thing.

I laughed. Hey, it's good for the soul to have a passion, right?

She nodded. I agree with that. Fully.

He rolled his eyes. Alright, I guess that's fine.

It could make for some great album art.

You might be right about that.

She sat up straighter in her chair. And it's good for business! People will see me photographing you and I have those new business cards all ready to go.

I smiled. That's a great idea. You've always been the brains, Kat.

I do my best.

Well, you're doing great. I'm proud of you.

She smiled warmly and blinked away the tears welling in her eyes. I'm proud of you, too. I know it's been hard since... She trailed off and bit her lower lip, shrugging lightly. Well, I know it's been hard lately. You're doing wonderfully.

I'm proud of you, too, Nick added. If it wasn't already obvious.

Aw, you guys...

I fanned myself while retaining my smile. I was lucky to have such supportive friends. After another thirty minutes of catching up, they stood up to bid their farewells. I hugged them before they left. Steve was hanging out behind the counter with his phone in his right hand and his apron in his left hand.

I smiled at him. Did you clock out yet?

Nope, was waiting for you, boss.

Alright, go ahead. I'll be right behind you.

He laughed. You promise you're not staying late?

I offered another smile while rounding the counter, punching my code into the computer to clock out. I promise.

3

K

urt

Miami was as warm as it ever had been. As I pulled into the modest driveway of my parent's house, I stared at the coral pink brick home with two windows offering a view of the living room. The house was one floor. It wasn't fancy, it didn't have a bustling floral lawn, and the stone steps leading up to the front door were aged by hurricanes.

I sighed as I turned off the car.

This is certainly a shock from my penthouse in the city, I reflected as I stepped out of my rental. But it