Lodged (Kinsmen Billionaires #2)

9. Chapter 9

Chapter 9

Gio Bianchi

I ’ve turned in my dissertation to my adviser, and as soon as I leave his office, a sense of relief washes over me. I’ve been sleeping only a couple of hours a day to meet my deadline. It’s amazing how productive I can be when I’m under stress. Like clockwork, when I make it to Main Street, my phone pings with a text.

Vicente : You alive?

Vicente is one of my brother-in-laws, technically Luca’s, but close enough. He lives in London, and from time to time we check up on each other. Being the oldest siblings, I think we share a bond none of us share with our siblings.

Gio : Hi. Yes! Dissertation submitted. I can finally breathe.

Vicente : Excellent! Let’s celebrate.

I chuckle at his text—he’s the epitome of the uber rich bachelor. Fierce in the boardroom and a playboy in his personal life.

Gio : What do you have in mind? My time is limited.

Vicente : Of course it is. Come to London for the weekend—it’ll be fun.

“Who are you texting?” a voice says next to me, and I jump.

“Fuck, Penny. You scared the living daylights out of me.” My hand goes to my chest as I try to calm my racing heart.

“I’m sorry. How did it go?” she asks as we start walking down the street, looking for a place to grab lunch.

“Good. Now I wait to see if Dr. Smith approves it, then I can move forward with my dissertation defense.”

“Congrats! So who were you texting?” she asks, trying to look at my phone, but the screen has gone black.

“Nosy much?” I ask, a smirk on my face.

“Oh, come on. Is it the cute redhead?” Penny asks with a knowing smile. I make a frustrated sound at the mention of Ruin. I can’t get her out of my head, and the guilt of being attracted to a student is eating at me.

“No, it isn’t her—it’s Vicente.” I glance at Penny and catch her raising an eyebrow in question.

“One of my brother’s brother-in-law.”

“What a mouthful.” She chuckles.

“Anyway, he’s asking me to go to London for the weekend. But I don’t know,” I share with her as I open the door to the Lebanese restaurant that we love coming to.

“Let’s go.”

“Let’s go where?” I ask, confused.

“To London, of course. Isn’t he the one who lives in London? I need a weekend in a big city.” I feel my eyes widen.

“Why do you look surprised? You know how much I love to travel,” she says with a shrug.

We pay for our food, and I get a wooden sign with a number so the waiter can bring our order to our table.

“I just didn’t know you wanted to go to London, that’s all.” I take a sip of my raspberry tea and glance around the restaurant. I tell myself I’m not looking for anything in particular, but I know I’m looking out for someone. I didn’t see her this morning at the library and as strange as it is, I miss seeing her. I miss her red, wavy hair, her light green eyes, and her gorgeous smile.

“Earth to Gio.” Penny waves her hand in front of me.

“Yeah, you’re right. We need a weekend somewhere else.” I take my phone out of my pocket and quickly fire a text to Vicente, letting him know I’ll be in London this weekend.

“Fuck yes!” Penny shouts at the exact moment the restaurant falls dead silent. She tucks her head in, and I stifle a laugh, hoping not to attract even more attention.

The flight to London is uneventful. Penny drinks way more champagne than I think her body can handle, but by the time we land, she’s fresh as a daisy.

There’s a Rolls Royce waiting for us on the tarmac, my last name visible on a whiteboard. When I approach the gentleman holding the sign, he does a double take, clearly not sure if I’m the person he’s waiting for. I’m not unfamiliar with this kind of reaction. Most people think that billionaires dress in expensive suits or luxury brand loungewear. But I’m not your typical billionaire—I favor Converse over Christian Louboutin shoes and comfortable shirts, jeans, and pants over Brioni suits.

I offer the gentleman a kind smile, and he shakes out of his stupor. “Mr. Bianchi, what a pleasure. This way, please.” I let Penny get in the car before me, and once we’re inside, I release a deep breath.

“I hope Vicente doesn’t have anything too crazy planned for this weekend.”

Penny elbows me playfully, and I wince at the attack.

“What was that for?” I ask, rubbing my side.

“You’re no fun. We didn’t cross the pond just to do the same things we do at home. I hope Vicente goes all out to show us around.” I roll my eyes at her, but I know she’s right. I came to loosen up a bit. I needed it after being a hermit while finishing writing my dissertation.

When we get to Vicente’s place, someone takes our bags inside while I help Penny out of the car. Vicente is waiting for us at the entrance.

“Gio, what a pleasure. I told myself I wouldn’t believe you were coming until I actually saw you with my own two eyes, standing in front of me.” I extend my hand in greeting, but Vicente pulls me closer for a hug. Hmm, the few times I’ve met him he has been aloof and proper. This is a new side of him.

“Oh, I see you didn’t come alone.” He shoots a flirty smirk to Penny who bats her lashes in return. Oh God, if these two hook up, I don’t want to be in the way.

“Yes, this is Penny, my best friend.” I motion to her, but Vicente already has her hand in his and is bowing to kiss it. I snort, and Penny glares at me, while Vicente is fully focused on her.

“So, Vicente, where are you taking us tonight?” Penny asks, always straight to the point.

“I was thinking you could freshen up, then we could have dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in the city. After that, we’ll see where the night takes us.” I internally groan. Why did I think things could be different this time around? As nice as he is, Vic is a playboy through and through.

“Oh, I like the sound of that. I’ll see you boys in a little bit.” Penny disappears to the second floor of Vicente’s mansion, glancing back to blow us a kiss before disappearing.

“Why didn’t you tell me you were bringing company this weekend?” Vicente tells me once Penny is out of sight.

“I wasn’t planning on it. She saw me texting you and decided she wanted to tag along.” I shrug as I follow him into his studio. Vicente’s place is everything you’d think a billionaire’s house should be: opulent, grand, and lavish, with marble floors, intricate ceilings, and furniture in dark, rich colors.

“You look like you need a drink. What’s going on?” Vic asks, and I smile at him. He’s always been quick to assess—sharp.

“I’m going to confide in you, but please don’t laugh.” Vicente raises his eyebrows as he hands me a glass of scotch. We clink glasses, and I take a fortifying sip.

“I think I like one of my students,” I say in a low voice, embarrassed by my admission.

“You like men, then? I don’t see the big deal,” Vicente says matter-of-factly, and I can’t help but grin at my friend.

“No, no. I don’t like men. But I agree, there’s nothing wrong with that.” I hurry to assure him. “My student is female, and I’m not supposed to fraternize with my students. It’s just wrong.” I give him a pointed look, hoping he’ll understand the undertone of my confession.

“Oh shit, and the student is Penny? Oh, fuck. I’m so sorry, Gio. I should have put two and two together, you bringing her here and all. I promise I’ll back off.” Vic places his glass on the desk he’s leaning against.

“No, boludo . Penny is truly my best friend. That’s all.”

“Then what’s the bloody deal?”

A Chilean using British slang has me howling. “Bloody? Who are you? I thought you were going to say, ? y qué tanta huevá? like any normal Chilean would.”

This makes him laugh, and he almost spits out the drink he just sipped. I enjoy seeing my friend loosen up a bit since he’s usually in CEO mode. Being the next in line to become the head of the Godoy Group, he handles millions of dollars in deals every day, so it’s always high stakes.

“You, more than anyone, would understand. We’re not just living in countries that aren’t where we were born—we’re also speaking a whole different language 24/7.” I nod and smile at him, fully understanding what he’s saying.

“Anyway, I don’t know how to get her out of my head.” Vic has a blank expression on his face, and I sit there, waiting for him to say something—anything. But we’re just staring at each other like two complete idiots.

“It’s against the university’s code of conduct to fraternize with a student. I’m in a position of power since I need to grade her progress. It’s not fair to her,” I explain again, and Vicente’s expression doesn’t change. I release a frustrated breath.

“And what’s the problem? You’re a fucking billionaire. I’m sure you can fix any issues that might come up due to you having the hots for a student.” My frustration is slowly turning into anger. I’m sure many people operate under those thoughts, but I’m not one of them.

“No, man. I would never do that.” I shake my head as I take another sip of the scotch, suddenly thinking I need a refill to continue this conversation.

“Gio, I get it. You’re a good man. But you just said you’ve never felt this way before. You have to act on it.” I relax at his words. I know he means well, but the thought of breaking the rules gives me goose bumps.

“Fine, let's think things through. What would be the worst case scenario?” His face immediately transforms into CEO mode.

“I could get fired, not to mention that if they remove my visa and deport me, I'll never be able to finish my PhD.” Vicente’s face hardens, his jaw clenching as he thinks.

“Well, we would never let that happen. I’m sure my team would find a way around it. And also, what do you mean you’re still on a student visa? You need to apply for citizenship immediately.” He’s not wrong. I know that’s something I’ve delayed long enough, but now that I’m about to be done with school, I need to ensure that I can stay permanently in the United States. “But let’s say that the other alternative is to hold off your arousing feelings until she’s no longer your student. Do you think you can manage to wait,” he pauses, thinking how long that would be.

“Until December,” I fill him in.

“Oh, so three more months. I mean, you’ve waited what, twenty-nine years? I’m sure you can wait three more months,” Vicente declares like he has solved it all, and I sigh. The truth is, I don’t know if I can.

“You’re right. I’m just being dense. I can definitely wait.” With a triumphant smile, Vicente finishes his drink just as there’s a knock on the door.

“I’m ready,” Penny sings-songs, opening the door wide. She does a little twirl, showing us her little black dress.

“Don’t you look charming,” Vicente tells her with a smile. Penny curtsies and giggles. I don’t want any part of…whatever this is between them.

“You kids have fun. I’m going to rest,” I tell them as I approach Penny to give her a kiss on her cheek. “You look gorgeous. Remember to be safe.”

She gives me an appreciative smile. “Always.”

I pat Vicente on the back before I head toward the second floor. It’s not my first time visiting him, so I already have a bedroom assigned to me. All I want is a hot shower and a good night's sleep. I can’t wait to explore the museums tomorrow.

I’m toweling myself off as I come out of the ensuite, the tiredness from the trip finally sinking in. I see my phone lighting up, and I frown, confused. No one ever calls me or texts me. Except my siblings—I hope they’re safe. My frown deepens when I notice a text from an unknown number.

Unknown : Hi, Gio, this is Ruin.

“No way,” I say as I let my towel fall to the ground and lay down on the bed. Looking at the message, it was sent not too long ago. Passing my hand over my face, I weigh my options. If I reply, I know there’s no way back. I’ll be consumed by talking to her on a more personal level, but if I don’t get back to her, she might think I’m not interested and won’t talk to me ever again. It takes a lot of courage to text your teacher.

Gio : Hi, Ruin. How did you get my number?

Her response doesn’t take long.

Ruin : Oh, it was on the lab syllabus. I hope it is okay to contact you.

Gio : That’s right. I forgot I had added it there.

I feel so dumb right now, asking stupid questions. She must regret contacting me. I take a look at my naked body, and I feel even worse. Who texts someone while naked? “Ugh,” I groan at myself.

Ruin : Anyway, I’m going to cut to the chase. I was wondering if you’d like to go to the State Fair with me?

Wow. How do I reply to that? It’s like someone was overhearing my conversation with Vic and decided to send over the ultimate temptation. I wasn’t sure if she saw me the same way I see her. I’ve tried to be as professional as possible while in the lab, and we have only spoken a couple of times outside of it. I guess this is the push I needed to pursue something with her?

“Pursue?” I whisper to myself. It’s not like I’m going to marry her before the semester ends. She’s just asking about going to the State Fair.

Calm your horses, Gio.

Ruin : I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have asked. I’ll check to see if it’s not too late to cancel this lab. Again, I’m so sorry, Gio.

Fuck, I guess I didn’t reply fast enough, and now she thinks I’m not into her. She must be mortified.

Gio : No, no. Wait. Please. I’m just trying to gather my thoughts.

I inhale deeply and slowly release it. I feel my dick hardening, my face getting warmer. My hands are shaking. A cold sweat runs down my neck onto my chest. What the fuck is going on?

I read her text over and over. Holy shit, I’m dumbfounded by her boldness. I’m definitely her fan. But fuck if I’m not scared shitless. The consequences of going out with her right now could be devastating for the both of us.

Closing my eyes, I raise a silent prayer to Abuelo Bianchi, I know he’d know what to do. I need his wisdom to guide me somehow.

Gio : I’d be lying if I said I don’t want to go to the fair with you, but we are in a tricky position at the moment. I don’t want you ever to feel pressured by me—being your lab instructor and all. The school has clear rules in regards to fraternization between teachers and students.

I inhale a deep breath before continuing to type. I hope she took the hint—I’m giving her an easy out if she’s had second thoughts. I don’t want her to get in trouble because of me.

Gio : As it is our luck, I’m currently out of town. But I believe the State Fair will still be going on next weekend. If we both just so happen to be at the same place, at the same time, I guess we couldn’t be blamed for doing something forbidden since it would be a coincidental encounter.

“What the hell are you doing?” I ask myself after I press send. Starting to feel too self-conscious about my nudity, I get up from bed and put on the first thing I find in my carry on—a pair of black sweatpants.

The phone screen illuminates with Ruin’s message. I quickly grab it and read.

Ruin : I guess it’d be purely coincidental if we end up at the Ferris wheel on Saturday at five in the afternoon.

Gio : I guess so.

Ruin : Good night, Gio.

Gio : Sweet dreams, Ruin.

Ruin doesn’t text back, so I guess our “non-date” is set. I pray to everything holy that there are no students around to catch us riding the Ferris wheel, and especially that following my gut doesn’t turn out to be a monumental mistake.

As expected, Penny and Vicente didn’t return until early this morning. I’m sure Penny will be sleeping the entire day, but I’m ready to go out and be a tourist for the day. Vicente will probably frown at me for not taking one of his drivers, but no one knows me here. I just want to enjoy the day without the fuss of someone following my every move.

My first stop is the Tower of London, a majestic castle nestled in central London. I snag a quick pic, and without thinking much about it, I send it to Ruin. Her reply doesn’t take long.

Ruin : Unless I’m hallucinating, that doesn’t look like any place in the US.

I chuckle at her response but love that she got back to me so quickly.

Gio : You’re not hallucinating. I’m in London.

Ruin : Oh, wow. How long are you staying?

Gio : I’m heading back home tonight. I just came to see a friend.

Ruin : Oh, fun! What else are you planning to visit today?

Gio : Not sure. I want to walk around and find something good to eat. Maybe a football stadium.

Ruin : You mean soccer?

Gio : lol, yes.

Ruin : That’s what I thought. Are you a fan of a particular team in London?

Gio : Not really, but I’m a football fan in general.

Ruin : Oh, gotcha. If I ever visit London, I’d love to go to the Sky Garden.

Gio : Hmmm, I’ve never been. I’ll have to check it out.

Ruin : Yes! And send pics from there. *smile emoji*

Gio : Will do. *salute emoji*

I spent the rest of the day walking after visiting the Sky Garden, where I took an insane amount of pictures. The first one I sent to Ruin was from the view in the restaurant, which was glorious. Her reply made me laugh until tears spilled from my eyes.

Ruin : Love the view, but I kinda wanted to see a certain hot teacher in the frame also *blush emoji*

After that, I sent her every single picture with me in it, and she loved them all. I can’t wait to go to the fair next weekend with her. I got her a few souvenirs from London—I hope she likes them. As I visited each place, I couldn’t help but think about how much I want to experience them with her—someday soon.

Before I know it, I’m heading back to Vicente’s to grab my things and head home. His disapproval is evident as soon as I walk in the door and announce my plans.

“Are you seriously leaving now?” Vicente asks, not hiding his disappointment.

“Yeah, I have to be back at school tomorrow,” I say, even though I don’t teach until Wednesday, so technically, I could stay a couple more days.

“But we didn’t go out. We didn’t even have dinner together. Nothing.” Guilt and embarrassment hit me, and I can’t meet his gaze.

“I’m sorry, Vic. Next time I’ll come with more time to spare. This was a lightning trip. And I did warn you I wasn’t in the mood to party…”

“No joke,” he says with a humorless chuckle.

“Are you ready to go, Pen?” I ask my friend as she shakes her head, and I frown.

“Actually, I decided to stay a couple more days, and Vicente was gracious enough to offer me to stay here at his place.” I study her as I search for any indication that she’s staying to spend time with Vicente, but I don’t see anything out of the ordinary.

“Are you sure?” I ask.

They both answer in unison, “Yes.”

The perfect timing makes me chuckle.

“Okay, I’ll send the jet back for you when you’re ready to head home,” I tell Penny, and she nods with a grateful smile.

“Nonsense, I’ll have my jet take her home whenever she’s ready,” Vicente says, leaving no room for argument.

“Thanks, man. I owe you,” I say as I give him a bro hug.

“Yes, you do. Now, go and become a doctor so we can finally take you out of that damn school.”

We all laugh, and after I hug Penny and double check that she’s okay staying, I go back to the airport. On the entire flight to Raleigh, I find myself daydreaming about a certain redhead who, in such a short time, has become a very important person in my life.