Tempting the Billionaire and His Heir

129

Alexa walked into Nolan’s room with a heavy heart. She had seen him in such a weak state before, but each time she saw him, it felt like the first time. His eyes were sunken and lifeless, and his skin was pale and fragile. She felt a wave of sadness wash over her as she realized how much he had been through in such a short time. “How are you feeling today, Nolan?” she asked, her voice soft and gentle.

Nolan froze in his place, not sure how to respond. He knew that Alexa had been working tirelessly to help him, but he didn’t want her to put herself on the line to avenge Anthony. “You don’t have to do this, Alexa,” he said, his voice barely above a whisper.

Alexa looked into Nolan’s eyes and told him sincerely, “I know I don’t have to do this, Nolan. But I want to. Anthony was like a brother to me, and I can’t just sit back and watch as his killers get away with it. I will do whatever it takes to put them down.” Her words were firm and resolute, and Nolan could see the determination in her eyes.

Nolan kept quiet for a moment, his heart heavy with emotion. He didn’t want Alexa to put herself in harm’s way, but he also knew that she was right. Anthony’s killers had to be brought to justice. Without saying a word, he pulled Alexa closer to him, holding her tight in a warm embrace. She rested her head on his shoulder, feeling the beat of his heart against her chest.

They stood there for a few moments, lost in their own thoughts, until Nolan finally spoke up. “Thank you, Alexa,” he said softly. “Thank you for everything you’ve done for me. I don’t know where I’d be without you.”

Alexa looked up at him, a small smile on her face. “You don’t have to thank me, Nolan. I’m just doing what I can to help you. We’re in this together, remember?” She placed a gentle kiss on his cheek, feeling a warmth spread through her body.

TWO MONTHS LATER.Property of Nô)(velDr(a)ma.Org.

Two months later, Nolan has finally completed his major and passed his licensure exam, officially becoming a professional architect. Alexa wanted to celebrate this momentous occasion, so she threw a party for Nolan at BCI, inviting his bandmates and employees. A banner was put up in the hall that read, “Now build an empire, Rockstar!” The banner was decorated with colorful stars and a sketch of a guitar.

As the party was in full swing, Nolan and Alexa finally found a moment alone by the hall. Nolan looked up at the banner and asked, “What’s this all about?” Alexa smiled at him and replied, “It’s about you, Nolan. You’ve accomplished so much and we’re all so proud of you. You’re a rockstar in your own right.” Nolan chuckled, “I’m not sure I would go that far.”

Alexa looked at him intently and said, “I would. Remember when I told you that you could live to work under your father’s shadows while shining bright like a star? This banner represents that. You can live your life as an architect while still pursuing your passion for music.” Nolan smiled, feeling grateful for Alexa’s encouragement.

They continued to talk about the possibilities and potential of his future endeavors while still practicing architecture. Nolan listened intently to her words and felt inspired by her unwavering support.

As the night went on, Nolan mingled with his guests and enjoyed the festivities. He played some music with his bandmates, and everyone sang along to their favorite tunes. Alexa made sure that he was having a good time, constantly checking in on him and offering him drinks and food.

Eventually, the party began to wind down, and the guests began to say their goodbyes.

Alexa and Nolan found themselves alone in the hallway after the party had started to die down. Nolan had been on cloud nine all night, celebrating his graduation and the success of his band, but he couldn’t help but feel a little apprehensive about the future.

Alexa could sense his hesitation and asked, “What’s on your mind, Nolan?”

Nolan took a deep breath and replied, “I just can’t believe it’s all over. I mean, I worked so hard to get my degree and become an architect, but now that it’s happened, I’m not sure what comes next.”

Alexa placed a comforting hand on Nolan’s shoulder and said, “You know what I think, Nolan? I think you can have it all. You can be a successful architect and a rockstar at the same time. You don’t have to choose.”

Nolan looked at her, surprised. “But how?” he asked.

“Remember the day I told you that you can live to work under your father’s shadows while also shining bright like a star?” Alexa asked.

Nolan nodded.

“Well, I still believe that, Nolan. You can live your life in the professional world while still pursuing your passion for music. You just have to find a way to balance the two.”

Nolan smiled at her. “Thanks, Alexa. You always know how to make me feel better.”

As they walked down the hallway, Alexa led Nolan to his father’s penthouse office. Nolan had never been there before, but he had heard a lot about it. It was said to be the place where his father had made some of his biggest decisions, and where he had created some of his most successful designs.

When they entered the room, Nolan was awestruck. It was even more impressive than he had imagined. But what caught his eye was the platinum and black bass guitar that was placed at the center of the office. It was like it was calling out to him.

Alexa noticed where Nolan was looking and said, “That guitar belonged to your father. He loved to play in his free time. He would have wanted you to have it.”

Nolan walked up to the guitar and gently picked it up. He ran his fingers over the strings, feeling the smoothness of the metal against his skin.