The Billionaire's Sudden Bride novel Chapter 21

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The Billionaire’s Sudden Bride

Chapter 21: When I Was in College, You Were Just a Little Girl

Summer’s Pov

I didn’t say that? My free felt like it was on fire

He leaned back, clearly enjoying

i stirred my tea with probably more force than necessar

refusing

meet his amused gasa. 16. Bark in haciming quita

x

“I’m simply seeking clarity on Miss Taylor pinion His voice care a warmth I wasn’t used to hearing Homesty is a virtue, after

carrier

The familiar buzz of campus life wrapped around us like a warm blaket students hurried portable. I couldn’t help stealing glances at Brandon between bites of my tands He carried himant with that natural elegance that probably came from a lifeta et private schools and privilege.

I bet the last time he ate anything this cheap was… well, was he ever a formal student? The image of a teenage Brandon in this same restaurant almost made me laugh. Though Ammwing him, he probably had his men private chef even hack then

“What?“His dark eyes caught mine, making my pulse skip. Great, he caught me staring–

“Nothing!” I said quickly too quickly. My cheeks felt warm as I scrambled for an n explanation. “It’s just… I mean, this isn’t The kind of place someone like you usually… I trailed off, not sure how to finish that thought without sounding ridiculous. Sompune like you – why did phrase it like that? As if Brandon Stark needs reminding that he’s different from normal people.

The corner of his mouth lifted in that dangerous half–smile. “Someone like

Heat crept up my neck. “You know what I mean. Wall Street titans don’t usually grab cheese steaks at student hangosts.”

“And yet.” his voice carried just a hint of amusement, “here I am.”

I glanced at my watch, anxiety suddenly spiking as I imagined the upcoming rush of students. The last thing Brandon Starit needs to be surrounded by starstruck college kids with smartphones. His presence already drew enough attention – Id noticed at least three girls at nearby tables sneaking photos. “It’s getting late – the students will be out of class soon! We should probably… God, I cound like I’m trying to get rid of him. Am I trying to get rid of him?

The familiar chime of a phone cut through my rambling. Saved by the bell – Miterally, Brandon pulled out his phone with that effortless grace that seemed to accompany his every movement.

“Sir.” James’s efficient voice carried dearly across the table, “Miss Taylor

has been prepared.”

you headed after this, Miss Taylor?”

“We’re at Columbia,” Brandon’s response was brief, his eyes finding mine. “Where are

“Home,” I fiddled with my napkin, avoiding his intense gaze. “You don’t need to trouble yourself, Mr. Stark. James can just deliver it

later.”

“That won’t be necessary.” The finality in his tone brooked no argument.

When he stood to pay, I scrambled to my feet. “Mr. Stark, I agreed to treat you! supposed to be my thank you

Those dark eyes studied me with an intensity at made i

I know it’s not a fancy restaurant, but this meal was

my skin prickle. “Letting a lady pay? That’s not how I do things.

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Chapter 21: When I Was in College, You Were Just a Little Girl

“But-“My protest died as he furved past me with that predatory grade, heading for the counter with the kind of confidenc probably got him everything he wanted in life.

He does this every time, I thought, watching him handle the payment with efficient authority. Somehow manage to get his way without making it feel like a power play..

The setting sum painted golden streaks across the campus grounds as we stepped outside. Brandon paused, his dark eyes taking in the familiar architecture. “Would you like to walk for a bit? I wonder how the campus looks like none”

I hesitated, surprised by the suggestion. But something in his expresion a rare softness that seemed at odds with his usual intensity–made me nod. “Sure.”

My heels clicked against the familiar pathways as we walked, each step bringing back memories of rushed morning classes and late night study sessions. The evening air carried the scent of autumn, crisp and full of possibility.

“Mr. Stark,” I ventured, curiosity finally overcoming caution, you don’t seem that much older than me, but I know pretty much all of Grandpa’s students. How come I’ve never seen you before? Which yer were you?”

He paused for a moment, something unreadable flickering across his face. “When I was in college, you were probably still a littl

girl.

“That’s impossible!” I couldn’t help laughing. “I’m 25, and you can’t be that much older than me!

The way he looked at me then–like he was enjoying some private joke – made my pulse skip. “You can ask Professor Thompson you don’t believe me. I only spent two years here. Entered at 15, which would have made you… what, seven or eight?”

The words hit me like a physical shock. “How is that possible? You must have been some kind of genius!”