Hollywood Heir (Westerly Billionaire #4)(27)

“No,” he said out of habit, then realized he didn’t have to be that person anymore, either. This was Rachelle, the family member who had found him at his lowest point. Part of his recovery was staying honest with himself and with those who loved him. Hiding from them, withdrawing into himself, had led him to a dark place he never wanted to return to. He’d like to pretend that part of his life had never happened, but he needed it as a reminder not to repeat it. “Yes. I’ve been living like a man with his back to the wall. I couldn’t walk away from my career because it supports too many people. I felt trapped.”

“But now?”

“Now I see I have options. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing. With a little juggling, there just might be room for what I want as well.”

“That is so great, Eric. You have no idea how good it is to hear you like this.”

Eric threw the doors to the patio open and took a deep breath. The air was fresher. Every color in the garden was brighter. “And I met someone.”

“Really?”

“She’s amazing. Bold, sweet, quirky. Just thinking about her makes me smile.”

“Eric, I’m so happy for you.”

“Things are a little rocky right now, but they’re about to get a hell of a lot better. I understand how she and I could work now. It’s doesn’t have to be full disclosure versus lies. There’s always a third option.” Standing in the bright morning sunshine, Eric felt young and alive. Invincible. “I’m creating my own third option.”

“Eric, what are you talking about?”

“Water Bear Man will do appearances again. So will Eric Westerly.” He left off Wayne Easton. Secret identities were best kept—well, secret.

“Should I worry that you’re talking about yourself in the third person?”

“Maybe.” Eric chuckled. “Does Vandorra have another cause that would benefit from some publicity?”

“Well, the children’s hospital would love to have you back. Finn asks about you constantly. His heart transplant went well, and he’s home, but it has been a tough road for him.”

“What about Tinsley?” Eric asked, remembering the little girl with huge blue eyes and big dreams of visiting Disney. “Did she—did she go?”

“Not yet, but the doctors say soon.”

Eric blinked back a tear at the memory of that little girl. He credited that visit to the children’s hospital as the catalyst for realizing he needed to make changes in his life. He hadn’t realized until then how truly low he’d sunk. Had he not met the kids and done some serious self-reflection afterward, he probably would have refused to go to the clinic. He might already be dead. He owed those children, as well as Rachelle and her husband, more than he could ever repay. “I know you have it covered, but tell me when you know the date she’ll be going home. I have friends who can add even more magic to the trip. Also, send me a date that works for another visit and I’ll be there—in costume.”

“Oh, they would love that, Eric. The children adore you. Magnus will be pleased as well. He was worried because you weren’t returning his calls lately.”

“I needed time to figure a few things out, but tell him I’ll ring him this week.”

“He’d like that.” Rachelle cleared her throat. “I hate to even ask, but have you seen Grandmother?”

One of his staff hovered near the door with a tray. Eric waved for the woman to set it down on the table beside him. After she did so, Eric said, “Hang on, Rachelle. What’s your name?”

In a quiet voice the woman said, “Mia Taylor.”

“Thank you, Mia.”

“Is there anything else you’d like?” she asked.

Eric looked the tray over then smiled at her. “No, it all looks perfect.”

She withdrew.

Eric sat, placed the phone on speaker, and set it down on the table. He poured himself a cup of coffee. “Rachelle, what did you think of my staff? They seem pretty awesome.”

She laughed softly. “They were wonderful.”

“I should give them all a raise.”

“Do you know how much you presently pay them?”

“No. Good point. I’ll start there. Reggie manages all that. I’ll ask him.”

“How is Reggie?” The affection in Rachelle’s voice rang sincere.

“Same as ever. I don’t know what I’d do without him.”

“He’s a good friend.”

“Yes, he is. How is married life?”

“I love it. Although I’ll probably never get used to being called Princess. I still look around for one every time I hear it.”

“Do you ever miss your old life?”

“I thought I would, because it’s a very public lifestyle, but there’s a town here where we can go to simply be ourselves. Magnus was raised there, and I’m glad our children will have the same opportunity. He has friends there, and now so do I. Don’t get me wrong, having a title and the responsibilities that come with it is an honor I welcome, but it’s nice to be able to step outside of it now and then to just—breathe.”

“Exactly. We all need that.” She understood. He was tempted to share about his sanctuary. He trusted her, but the risk was too great. Later, when his life was running smoothly, he’d tell her.