The Movie Star and the Spy (The Secret Billionaires #5)

Chapter 19

CHAPTER 19

C heyenne plucked a soft red petal. She rubbed it between her fingers before letting it drift to the ground. “I love him.”

She plucked another, held it for just a moment. “I still love him.”

She gathered another velvety petal… without hesitation, it joined the others. “Continuing to love him.”

Another petal, and this time, “I love him, damn it.”

Cheyenne tossed the entire flower on the ground. “I love him. I love him. I love him. This is ridiculous. I’m so far gone, I can’t even say the word not.”

A throat cleared, and she lifted her head. The man stood across the small park clearing, with a sad smile and a fathomless gaze. “Aren’t some of those supposed to be I love him not? ”

Cheyenne blushed. She hadn’t meant to share something so personal with him. Not even if he was technically her father. He’d asked if they could meet, and she had agreed. Only this time they were outside, under a sun that didn’t seem nearly as bright, amidst flowers that somehow seemed duller. Even the air tasted stale and lifeless.

Charles edged forward. “It’s all right, sweetheart. You were both gone a long time ago. The sparks are pretty obvious.”

“I never denied the chemistry,” Cheyenne admitted. “And if that’s all there were, I’d be over it by now. But it’s more than attraction. It’s… it’s…”

“Love.”

Love. One simple word, four little letters, and yet such meaning. But it was true, and she couldn’t deny it any longer. For some reason she had the strangest urge to confide in the man who’d forged her fears. “I thought I could just forget it. Forget him . Only two months have gone by, two months without contact, and I feel no different. Even my job seems dull and boring, which is ironic since that’s the excuse I gave him for leaving.”

Charles’s expression was kind. “Are you sure that’s why you gave him up?”

“Yes… no.” Cheyenne averted her gaze. “Work had nothing to do with it. How could I be with a man like that? A man whose job involves kissing other women, pretending to make love to them? How could I ever feel secure?”

Charles sighed. “Because he isn’t me. Because my leaving doesn’t mean he will. I did this to you, and I’m trying my best to undo it. You and your mother scared the hell out of me, and I ruined my life because of it. I lost the only people who truly mattered. Please don’t make the same mistake I did.”

She wrapped her arms around herself. “It’s not the same.”

“Close enough.” He placed a hand on her shoulder, and this time she welcomed it. “Don’t sabotage your life for fear. Has Julian given you any reason to believe he’d be unfaithful?”

Their relationship replayed in a hundred memories, from their first meeting through every interaction to their fateful final conversation. Through it all, he hadn’t engaged with other women. Even though the tabloids had shown him on the arms of many starlets, none had ever suggested he cheated. Since their breakup, even those pictures had disappeared. “No,” she admitted. Then because she just couldn’t help it, she asked, “Is he seeing anyone?”

Charles smiled. “Anyone besides you? No. In fact, he can’t stop talking about you. It’s a bit strange since he knows our true relationship. Have you been agonizing over that every day?”

Yes. Time hadn’t weakened her feelings – instead they’d grown stronger, clearer. She just loved him so much.

By Charles’ sympathetic expression, it was obvious. “You’re the bravest person I know. You take on criminals without a thought. Yet when your heart is at risk, you run the other way.”

“I didn’t run.” Except that’s exactly what she did. “Okay, maybe I did, just a little. But what can I do now? Send him a fan letter?”

“Actually, I was thinking more of living happily ever after.” Charles’ gaze was soft. “No agent or publicist necessary.”

Could it really be so simple? Could she go back, admit she’d made a mistake and start anew?

“Please think about it. I’m going to see him today. Do you want me to tell him anything?” He lifted an eyebrow. “Or better yet, do you want to come?”

So. Very. Much. But she couldn’t, at least not yet. She needed more time, just a little, to make the right decision. “No, thank you.”

“I understand.” Despite the negative response, Charles voice was light, and he seemed happier than she’d ever seen him. “I hope I helped, if even a little.”

“You actually did.” For once, the anger seemed less. The fear smaller. The hope greater. Just as her relationship with Julian was being redefined, so was the one with her father. “I was thinking about maybe giving you that chance.”

Eyes identical to hers widened. “Really?”

Cheyenne nodded, but the expected anxiety was absent. No anguish or even apprehension, but instead peace. “Maybe we could try for that cup of coffee again.”

He was silent for a moment, and he closed his eyes. When he opened them, he beamed pure sunshine. “That sounds perfect.” Then he took a slightly unsteady breath, walked up and gave her something she’d been dreaming of her entire life.

A hug from her daddy.

That evening, Cheyenne hopscotched between euphoria for her second chance with her father and anguish for the one she was denying Julian. She spent two hours at the gym sparring out her frustration, resulting in more frustration and a lot of sore muscles. A day (and many hours of exercise) later, her resolve faltered. The next day she found herself watching every one of Julian’s flicks… twice.

The next day, she was done for.

She just couldn’t give up the relationship of her dreams, at least not without trying. Julian claimed to be in love with her, and even if she hadn’t admitted it to him – and barely to herself – she was in love with him. So she fortified herself and explained the situation to her boss. They agreed she’d have to leave her current position, but he promised a space for her within the department. Now she just had to decide how to tell Julian.

Only a few days later…

It started with a knock at the door at four a.m . Cheyenne stumbled out of bed, and half/slept, half/staggered to the front entrance. She peered through the peephole, blinking once and then twice and then a dozen times. What was Julian’s agent doing here? She swiftly opened the door. “Frank, come in. Is everything okay with Julian?”

He held up a hand. “Julian’s fine. I’m here to deliver something.”

He was visiting before dawn to bring a present? He followed her to the living room and handed her a small, wrapped box covered in gleaming silver paper and a glittery bow. She tore the paper and opened the box. “An invitation?” She read the description and gasped.

It was an invitation to the biggest awards show of the year, the program watched by millions of people. She shifted the paper in her hands, and a small note slipped out. She grasped it before it could fall to the floor.

Please join me, but only if you’re ready to tell the world.

It ended there, but no explanation was necessary. She had a choice, a decision that would redefine her life. Was she ready to admit her love, to show the world that Julian Starcroft belonged to her, and she to him? Or would she ignore it and spend the rest of her life without the man she loved?

She didn’t debate for even a second.

“Does that wistful smile mean you accept?”

Cheyenne inhaled courage, exhaled anticipation. Only one word remained. “Yes.”

Elation turned to pure joy. Julian hadn’t given up on them, and he hadn’t moved on. He’d been biding his time, granting her time to make her own decision. Now she was ready. She reread the invitation and halted. “Wait – this is today? In California?”

“That’s right.” He tapped his watch. “Which means we have to hurry. Your flight leaves in two hours.”

“My flight? Two hours? We’ll never make it. I have to pack and–”

“Don’t worry about that.” He stopped her. “Everything has been taken care of. As long as we make it to the airport, you’ll be fine. All you need is to dress and grab your purse. Can you do that?”

Could she? “Absolutely.”

The next few hours passed in a whirlwind of high-speed travel. They made it to the airport with minutes to spare and waited in the first-class lounge before boarding a nonstop flight to Los Angeles. Cheyenne had never flown first class before, and the wide, plush seats and gourmet meal of Belgian waffles with fresh whipped cream and strawberries were divine. The double serving of chocolate raspberry ganache cake tasted even better.

The flight arrived early, and Frank led her to a waiting limo. She hoped to see Julian right away so they could talk, but instead a woman dressed in sparkles and sequins approached with double air kisses. Louise Beauchene, one of the premier stylists in the country, was introduced as her personal stylist for the day as Frank waved farewell. “I’d love to stay, but I have a busy afternoon. I’ll leave you two to it.”

Of course, he was busy. He’d flown across the country to retrieve her on the day of the awards. Julian had gone to a lot of trouble to make this happen. What other surprises did he have in store for her?

She ducked into a luxurious car decked with plush seats, swanky furnishings and a minibar stocked with expensive liquors. They coasted down a crowded thoroughfare flanked by palm trees and mega mansions, while up above fluffy white clouds drifted lazily across the sky, carried on a cool breeze that swirled through the open windows. Finally, they pulled into the Raffles L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, a luxurious hotel known for catering to the rich and famous. Cheyenne (somewhat) managed not to stare like a gawking tourist as the stylist checked them in and led her to a spacious suite with gilded accents and a balcony.

“How is this going to work?” Cheyenne tore her gaze away from the stunning view outside the window. “Are we going to the mall? I might not be a star, but I don’t think they’ll let me wear jeans to the awards.”

Louise turned pale, as if she’d suggested going buck naked. “Of course not, but we’re staying right here. The mall is coming to us.” Before Cheyenne could ask for an explanation, a light knock sounded from the door. The stylist answered, then returned with a large white box. “This is for you.”

Cheyenne placed the box on the table and removed the heavy lid. A gasp was the only possible response, as she lifted a creamy silk dress covered in Swarovski crystals. The floor length creation was an ethereal creation fit for a princess – or a movie star. A sparkling sweetheart neckline gave way to wispy off-the-shoulder sleeves, and then a shimmering skirt with hand embroidered embellishments. Tiny seed pearls glazed the crystals, like foam on a diamond sea. With every movement, light casted fiery rainbows along the magnificent work of fashion artistry.

Though she’d always been a tomboy, even she couldn’t resist the beautiful creation. With Lousie’s assistance, she discarded her casual outfit and slipped the gown over her head. Minutes later, she stared at the reflection that couldn’t possibly be her.

If the dress had been lovely in the box, it was nothing less than stunning on her. It molded to her curves, showing off her fit figure and shapely curves. Faceted crystals sparkled like tiny stars, amidst shimmering pearls and tiny glass beads reflecting the glittering light. The skirt glistened with each movement, falling in soft waves all around her.

The stylist clapped her hands in glee. “It’s perfect.”

“I’m more than perfect – it’s amazing.” Cheyenne couldn’t look away from the iridescent reflection. “Thank you so much.”

“I would love to take credit, but I didn’t choose it,” Louise admitted. “Julian picked it out himself. He knew your exact measurements.” She smiled as Cheyenne blushed. “You probably don’t want to take it off, but I’m afraid you have to, at least for a little while. The team is here.”

There was more? “The team?”

What Julian had done, she discovered in the next few hours, was order a virtual army of professionals to gift her the spa day of a lifetime. First, an hour-long massage that turned her muscles to jelly, then a facial. Her nails were next, polished to a gleaming French manicure with crystal accents to match the dress. The hairstylist followed, world famous apparently, and created a half-updo with shiny ringlets that made her look like a princess. Next, the makeup artist turned her skin flawless, her eyes bright and her lips sparkly. Hours later, she finally slipped back into the stunning dress and its matching crystal-encrusted heels.

“You look fabulous.” Louise fussed over her after everyone had left. “The stars will wonder who this beauty is.”

It was like living in a dream. “Thank you. You did an amazing job.”

“There’s one last thing in the hallway. Why don’t you take a look while I order dinner?”

What more could possibly remain? A flying carpet? As the stylist dialed on her phone, Cheyenne crossed the corridor and approached a flat black velvet box. “What did you do, Julian?” she whispered. With a deep breath, she lifted the top.

Diamonds, emeralds and rubies, so many of them, gleaming and perfect and flawless, lay nestled against a midnight velvet background. They etched vines and flowers in a beautiful filigree necklace, a stunning representation of the nature Julian loved so much. The gems were clear and vibrant, sparkling as if lit by an inner light. A matching bracelet and earrings set accompanied them.

“Oh my.”

Cheyenne started at the voice from the doorway.

“I apologize.” The stylist grinned. “I didn’t mean to intrude. Julian wanted to know how you reacted when you saw them.”

“They’re amazing.” Beyond so, truly. She gave a curt shake of her head. “But just for tonight, right? He must’ve borrowed them like actresses do for awards shows and–”

“He bought them,” Louise broke in. “They’re yours.”

What? She traced the flawless sparkling surfaces. She couldn’t accept, of course, but perhaps she could wear them just this once. With Louise’s help, she donned the stunning suite. Then… she was ready.

The rest of the afternoon melted away. The food the stylist ordered was delicious and savory – lasagna, a fresh wedge salad and crusty bread covered in thick slices of garlic. Finally, the limousine came and whisked them away, just like that magic carpet. When they reached the theater, Louise turned to her. “This is where we’ll separate.”

“You’re not coming?” Cheyenne frowned. After the stylist’s hard work, she should see Julian’s reaction.

“I’ll be there, but if I show up with you, everyone will notice. The reporters know you’re Julian’s ex-assistant, and they’ll wonder what you’re doing here. Of course, they’ll know soon enough, but we thought you’d rather wait for the reveal.” Louise gave a secretive smile. “Someone will take you to your seat. You’ll be sitting next to Julian, but he’s one of the presenters, so he’ll be backstage until after his performance.”

Cheyenne opened her mouth to ask more questions, but the limo came to a sudden stop. Louise gave her a quick hug. “I’ll see you soon!”

Cheyenne would’ve preferred a year or two more to prepare, but an usher opened the door, and just like that, time was up. With no choice, she climbed out of the limo, stepping into a sea of gloriously dressed actors and flashing light bulbs. Nervous energy slowed her steps, subsiding marginally when the crowd focused on the celebrities emerging from the other limos.

“Ms. Kirk?” An impeccably dressed usher greeted her. She nodded, and he gave a literal bow. “I’ll take you to your seat.”

Cheyenne followed him, thankfully bypassing the red carpet. Yet as they entered the lower level, travelling closer and closer to the stage, her apprehension grew. Then, he gestured to the front row.

“You’ve got to be kidding.”

He smiled… and gestured to the same seat.

“Okay then. But when the president of the academy says I stole his place, I’m telling on you.”

The usher wouldn’t do something as undignified as chuckle, but his eyes sparkled. He gave a short bow before leaving, and Cheyenne sank down on the plush seat. Now people did notice her, whispering behind hands encrusted with massive diamond rings, exchanging hundreds of curious looks and taking (not so) subtle cell phone pics. They must wonder whose guest she was. Soon the whole world would know her identity.

The minutes passed quickly, and the hall filled up. She’d never been starstruck type, but it was a little surreal. She was grateful when they finally announced the show’s commencement and the lights dimmed.

A popular comedian from late night television was hosting this year, and he performed a hilarious opening monologue, complete with song and dance. Several speakers followed, celebrities in dazzling dresses and dapper tuxedos handing out the famous golden statues. There were a few tributes and videos, then a commercial.

After the break, the host returned. “The next speaker needs no introduction, at least not to his millions of fans. Please welcome the star of the upcoming movie, Spy Heat , Julian Starcroft.”

Apprehension stole Cheyenne’s breath. Months had passed since she’d seen him, but it seemed seconds as the handsome movie star strode onto the stage. The crowd cheered and clapped and hooted, but their calls faded as an unspoken connection sparked, despite the distance. They smiled at the exact same moment, eliciting a dizzying juxtaposition of warmth, chills and pure love . Every doubt disappeared in a minute, every uncertainty vanquished. She had made the right choice.

“Thank you for the warm welcome, ladies and gentlemen.” Julian’s voice boomed, as he stood completely at ease in front of the vast audience. “I’m thrilled to be here. In a minute, you’ll find out why.” He winked, sending off a new round of applause.

A funny feeling fluttered in her stomach.

“When the Academy approached me to do a presentation, they were looking for a segment on love in the movies. I explained I was an action star, but they didn’t believe me.” He paused to laughter. “But then something happened, and suddenly I found myself with the perfect material. But in this case, it wasn’t about fictional love, but true love.”

A murmur sounded through the crowd, and Cheyenne’s heart leapt into a gallop. He couldn’t possibly be talking about…

“It struck like lightning, like they always talk about in the movies, only this wasn’t in any script. It began with a woman, an amazing, strong, beautiful woman, who turned out to be more than I ever imagined. I may play a hero in the movies, but she’s the real thing.” He gazed right at her. “I simply had to get close to her. So I asked – okay, fine, convinced – her to spend time with me.”

Everyone smiled, including Cheyenne.

“As I got to know the true woman, something unexpected happened. Something I’d never experienced before. Love–” He paused to applause so thunderous, he couldn’t be heard even with the microphone. He stood tall and heroic, beaming like a man whose greatest dreams had come true. Finally, when the applause showed no sign of abating, he gestured to continue. “I used to believe true love only happened in the movies, but it happened to me. I met the perfect woman, a woman who is kind and giving, sweet and strong, noble and compassionate. A woman who is willing to sacrifice herself for others, who is honorable, fierce and so very intelligent. I couldn’t imagine my life without her.”

Now he spoke directly to her, as if they were the only two people in the entire world. “I don’t care what your name is. I don’t care who you are or what you do. All I care about is you. I want to be with you today, tomorrow and forever. This time, I’m not asking for a date – I’m asking for a lifetime.”

He descended the stage and strode to her. Then…

He bent down on one knee.

The world grew blurry as he held out a small velvet box to reveal a stunning ruby and diamond ring, the perfect match to her set.

She gasped.

The crowd gasped.

The world gasped.

“Cheyenne Kirk, will you make me the happiest man in the world? Will you marry me?”

She didn’t notice the crowds. She didn’t notice the cameras. She only saw her love, the man of her heart giving his own. She would take it, keep it safe, hold it next to hers as they journeyed life together. “Yes,” she whispered. “Yes, yes, yes!”

His smile shared the truth of his love as he slipped the ring on her finger, where it fit with perfection. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her like he’d never let her go. He never would.

“I love you so much,” she whispered. “And I don’t care who knows it. I love this man,” she called for the world to hear.

“Forever?” he asked.

“Forever,” she said.

And the world applauded.