"In entertainment news, outside of the Brazilian steakhouse on Bridgeway Avenue early today, billionaire Shane Landes and his girlfriend were in a confrontation with another woman. The other woman in the video is his ex, Amy Williams. She apologized for the cause of their breakup and an incident where she poured water on his current girlfriend, Bliss Sanders.

Ms. Sanders was willing to forgive Ms. Williams, but Mr. Landes was not. From what he said, it appears that he thinks his girlfriend is foolish for accepting the young ladies' apology. And he seems to believe she only apologized because the paparazzi were present. Hopefully, this incident will not cause a breakup between him and Ms. Sanders. Landon Hayes is reporting to you live from the scene. Back to you, Steve."

**************

Shane's POV

"Shane, do you know how this makes Bliss and Amy look?!! You think Bliss is stupid for accepting the apology, and you think Amy's apology was fake!! I am good friends with Amy's mom. She said that Amy had moved on, she was dating someone else, and she had nothing to do with the paparazzi being there. As Amy said, she was getting a present for her father. They are having an anniversary party for her parents. You owe Bliss and Amy an apology. Amy was being sincere, Shane!!" My mum says to me while screaming on the phone.

"That is going to be kind of hard because Bliss is not talking to me. Ugh, why me? I deleted and threw away everything regarding Amy almost two years ago."

"Well, you need to figure it out because you created this situation yourself. And you better not try to buy your way out of this situation either. Now when people especially see Bliss, they will start calling her stupid or foolish. You don't have to be friendly with Amy. Just accept her apology and move on as she did. Now, I can get Amy's number from her mother. Just like you embarrassed them in public, you need to apologize to them in public. And, do it soon."

"Okay, okay, I will do it soon. Talk to you later, mum."

I am such an idiot. I'll have to call the media for a press conference to apologize. If Bliss did not see the news yet, I'm sure Andrea and Jessica probably have called Bliss about it.

************

Narrator's POV

After the call with his mum, Shane went to check on Bliss. He knocked on her door, but she did not answer. He knew it would be difficult, but he had to keep trying.

It was like this for the next week and a half. Bliss came out of her room to get something to eat and take care of the kittens. She did not say one word to Shane.

Shane even got a call from grandma Landes in London. She chewed him out for what he did. Shane's grandma did tell him that Bliss is a very beautiful woman, and she can't wait to meet her. So, Shane said they are going to visit in June.

Mason had to travel with Bliss on several occasions because a few people did try to approach her to harass her.

Bliss's first day back to work will be on Monday, so Shane called Amy to be outside his building, and he will apologize to both her and Bliss.

***********

Monday, February 25th, 2019

Bliss' POV

Shane has tried to talk to me since the incident happened, but I have not said anything to him. I am so mad at him. One thing the media has wrong is this will not cause me to break up with him. Shane means the world to me.

I am glad I can go back to the office today, and I have a doctor's appointment this week about my ankle. By the time I went downstairs, I had sawed Mason in the kitchen.

"Good morning, Mase." I grabbed a cup to make some coffee and just ate some cereal for now. I'll get something else at the office. "When did you come in?"

"Shane asked me to come over this morning. He left early for work. I'll be following you today to work. He's really sorry, Bliss. He realizes his mistake and hopes you talk to him again soon. His grandma Landes wants to meet you too. She heard about what he did and chewed him out."

"Well, he deserved it. I will talk to him when I am ready. That hurt, Mase. And you saw how several people tried to instigate a disagreement with me."

"Bliss, those people are disgusting. That is one of the reasons I love being a bodyguard. I get to protect people from all types of situations. I have done work for some celebrities and non-celebrities. But, now it is more special because you are my family, Bliss."

I walked over to Mason and hugged him. "Thank you, Mase. That means a lot to me. You are my family too. 2nd, I am so glad you are my bodyguard. I'll get my things and meet you by the door."

After washing my breakfast dishes, I walked to my closet to grab my coat and bags. Then, I locked up the house. We then made our way to work.

**************

When Mason and I pulled into the parking lot, we saw a group from the media. "What is Shane trying to do now?"

I parked in my space. Mason parked next to me, on my left. I stepped out of my Infiniti and grabbed my things from the passenger side. Some of the media started swarming over to me, so Mason came and cleared some space for me to walk near the podium where Shane and Amy were standing.

I finally spoke to Shane. "I'm cold. Can we make this quick?"

Shane's POV

"Ladies and gentlemen, I will not keep you long because of the cold weather. But I need to apologize to these ladies. Amy, I was going by past experiences, which is why I assumed that your apology was not sincere and that you had called the paparazzi. I am sorry about what I said two weeks ago. You asked for forgiveness, so I forgive you. I hope you forgive me."

"I want to put this behind all three of us, Shane. So, yes, I forgive you."

Then, I turned to face Bliss and got on my knees. "Darling, I know you are not stupid. I am the stupid one. I created this situation and put your life in danger. Mason told me about those people that were harassing you. I could never forgive myself if anything happened to you. I'm really sorry for making you look bad when I am the wrong one."

"Shane, I know you are cold, so can you please stand up?"

Who am I to deny my beautiful girlfriend?

"I forgive you. That was the longest two weeks ever. You mean the world to me, and I missed your kisses. So, kiss me now."

Right in front of the media and whoever else saw this, I lifted Bliss in my arms, and she wrapped her legs are my waist and arms around my neck, just like the last press conference. Then, our mouths melded together in a passionate kiss.

We heard several throats clearing, so we stopped and straightened our clothes. Then, Bliss spoke to the media.

"When my sisters told me about the news report, I watched it and several other reports speculating that I would break up with Shane because of this. So, anyone who had hoped for a breakup, those who are now upset and disappointed, too bad. I am not breaking up with Shane now or in the future. I love him, and he loves me. End of discussion."

"This a message to anyone watching this press conference or hearing it. If I hear that anyone is harassing my woman, you will be dealt with by me. That is a promise. Thank you for your time, and that will conclude this press conference."

Bliss' POV

The media dispersed and made their way out of the parking lot. It was just me, Mason, Amy, and Shane left standing in front of the building.

"Thanks for clearing a path for me, Mase. I am going inside because I am freezing. Amy, maybe one day we can become friends. What happened is in the past. We all need to move forward from this." I reached into my bag to give her one of my cards. "My cell phone number is listed on the card. I will be pretty busy through April, so how about we plan a lunch or dinner in May and try to get to know each other?"

"Sure. I would like that a lot. Thank you. You have a beautiful heart, and you are a beautiful person. Shane, Bliss is a keeper. Don't ever hurt her anymore." I hugged Amy, and then she left.

"You guys can stand out here all you want, but I am going to Starbucks and get to work." As I walked inside the building, I said good morning to Karla and went to my office. Shane followed me while Mase left. We rode up on the elevator together.

"I want you to see how a new investor's meeting goes. That one will be held here in the main conference room. Also, your first meeting will be in the main conference room. A few of your meetings are on the West Coast. If you want me to go with you for the first few, I will go ahead and plan those days."

"Yes, I would love for you to come, especially since it will be my first time." We finally reached our floor and stepped off the elevator. "Hi, Carly. It is so good to see you and finally be back in the office."

"It is good to see you too, Bliss. No more ankle injuries, understand Shane?" Carly and I snickered. Shane sighed.

"I am never going to hear the end of that." Then, we both went to our offices.

*************

Throughout the rest of the week, I got quite a bit accomplished. I was able to process payroll on time. Shane also gave me the work folders of the companies for the investor's meetings that I will be attending, etc.

I also went to the doctor's office to have my ankle checked. The doctor told me that I no longer needed the walking boot and to take it easy for the next month while wearing shoes.

I went to my first new investor's meeting with Shane on Friday in the main conference room. Shane introduced me to the team that came. It was an interesting learning experience. The company presented its proposal to Shane for an investment. I observed how attentive Shane was to what the company was showing and the questions he asked. Looking over the financials for this company, I believe Shane will go for it. He thanked them for their time and said he would give them an answer sometime next week.

****************

Bliss's first meeting

Shane sat in my office with me, giving me a pep talk.

"Listen, you won't have to say much for the most part. But if you feel the need to question anything, feel free to do it. I trust you, Darling. Plus, Wyatt and Mercedes will be there with you. You got this."

"Okay. Thanks for the pep talk because I needed it."

I had the company's folder, a notepad, and a pen to carry to the meeting. From what I have read so far of the company Grant's Men's Warehouse, their financials are excellent. So, Shane will more than likely continue investing with them.

Mercedes entered my office. "Bliss, the company is set up in the main conference room. I also set the buffet up just in case they need anything to drink or eat. And don't be nervous, girl. You got this."

"Thanks, Mercedes."

I stood up and smoothed my suit, then grabbed my things. Shane walked with me to the conference room. "Good luck." He winked, kissed me, and went to his office. Then, I entered the room.

Shane's POV

When I went to my office and turned on the monitor, I looked up to see, "Nolan Grant?!" What the heck?! They usually send someone older, which I am guessing was his father.

He ought to be glad I am not petty because I could dangle this over his head. He would not be that stupid to try anything funny. Bliss was a little nervous walking into the room when she saw Nolan, but she kept it professional and held her own.

Bliss' POV

I scanned the room to see everyone's faces and saw, "Nolan Grant?!" I have to remember this is a place of business, so my personal dislike of him had to be pushed aside. I grabbed myself a bottle of water. Once I sat down, everyone did the same.

"Good morning, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Ms. Bliss Sanders. I will now take over the investor's meetings for Grant's Men's Warehouse and will report to Mr. Landes with your presentation. If you need anything to drink or eat - water, tea or juice, pastries, please help yourself to the buffet. Please proceed with the presentation."

Nolan's POV

"Why me?" That was all I could think about at the moment. And look at her curves in that suit. "Focus, Nolan. Focus."

I knew she was dating him but didn't know she worked for him too. I have to keep this professional.

"Good morning, Ms. Sanders. Ms. Williams, please start the slide presentation."

Throughout the presentation, I chose my words carefully because one slip-up would end our investment. Shane's company is one of the best investment companies in the United States, and companies worldwide are starting to notice. Shane is a highly powerful man, so anyone better stay on his good side.

"Throughout the past three months, the company has overall excellent sales figures. January was a little slow initially but picked up the rest of the month. We hope to expand and open several locations in Miami and Orlando, which will open more potential for the company to grow. With Mr. Landes' continued support, we can proceed with those openings."

I noticed her facial expressions as I spoke. She truly is a beautiful woman and very attentive to what I was saying. No wonder men find her attractive. After 30 more minutes of presenting, I concluded my portion of the meeting.

"And that will conclude the presentation and update for this quarter."

Bliss' POV

"Mr. Grant, your presentation was excellent. While reviewing the company's profile and financials over the past few weeks, I was very impressed by how profitable Grant's Men's Warehouse is. I will pass my notes and comments to Mr. Landes, and he will get back to you with his decision next week. The meeting is adjourned. Thank you for coming." I shook everyone's hands, including Nolan. Then, I grabbed my things and left the room.

Now I can let out the sigh of relief that I held in. While walking back to my office, Mercedes said, "Bliss, you handled that like a pro. Good job there, girly. See you later at dinner to celebrate your first meeting."

"Thanks, Mercedes."

"SURPRISE!" Everyone was in my office - Shane, Adrian, Brently, Carly, Julian, Andrea, Jessica, and Mason. I walked over to my desk and sat down in my chair.

"Layla, you guys came too?" Layla, Braelyn, Ryan, and Austin came as well.

Braelyn came over and gave me a great, big hug. "Of course, we had to come and support you. You did great. I could tell you were nervous at first seeing Nolan, but you were able to keep your personal disdain for him outside. High-five, girly."

Layla and I traded high-fives, then hugged each other.

"Thank you all so much for coming. I really appreciate it." Two of my favorite guys then came over a hugged me.

"Good job there, Bliss. Nolan had no choice but to be on his best behavior. If he didn't, Shane and I were ready to pounce on him."

"Thanks, Ryan." We may have different parents, but I missed our times together and I am glad he is back in my life. Ryan always knows what to say to make me smile. And what he just said made me smile.

"Good job, sis. So, that is the infamous Nolan that is after you? I got my eyes on him now."

"Thanks, bro." I kissed my brothers on their cheeks.

"You did good, Darling."

"Thanks, Shane." Of course, I had to hug my boo. "Observing you at your meetings is what helped me a lot."

We heard the elevator ding, so Carly left to see who it was.

"Here are my notes and comments from the meeting. I need a glass of water, please?"

Julian grabbed a cup and went to the fridge for some water. Then, he brought it over to me.

When Carly came back into the office, she was hot! "Bliss and Shane, you are not going to believe this. Look at this mess!!"

I opened the envelope to see a court summons. "Alexander Mahoney is suing me for breaking his hand last year at that business conference and for humiliation at that press conference?!! The court date is May 17th, 2019!!"

Everybody in my office was livid!!! But not as livid as Shane. "Braelyn, sweetie, come here so I can cover your ears."

Shane's POV

I screamed out every curse word that was in the dictionary. "I AM GOING TO BREAK ALEXANDER IN HALF!!!"

"Shane, you are not going to break him in half. You have some of the best lawyers in the country to win this case for Bliss. Let them take care of Alexander. Seeing a grown man pull stunts like this is deplorable because he can't have something go his way. Don't let your emotions get the best of you."

My father is right.

"He is right, Shane. Alexander already tried to discredit me with his little stunt at the airport, sending the media with his false claims, remember? I have nothing to hide. He is only making himself look further ridiculous. I will not let Alexander or anyone else try to bully me."

Bliss whispered the next part in my ear, "Who would I get to make out with?" Then she kissed my cheek.

I calmed down and blushed after that. "You're right, Darling. I will have my lawyers get to work on this tomorrow. And they will want to get your side of the events. The court date is at the beginning of May, so we have time. Tonight, we are going to celebrate your meeting. And next week is 'Wedding week' for Layla and Ryan. Let's focus on that."

"Before we go, can I countersue? He sexually assaulted me. I am nobody's sex object. Every time I have been around him, I have felt uncomfortable."

"Absolutely. I will call my lawyers right now. Also, we will need to get footage from the hotel. We are going to make sure that Alexander NEVER bothers you again."

*************

Thank you all for reading chapter 25.

1. Bliss' work outfit is courtesy of PNG Tree - ©pngtree.com

2. Bliss' meeting outfit is courtesy of PNG Tree - ©pngtree.com / Yulia Toporovska

3. Office conference room is courtesy of Can Stock Photos - © Can Stock Photo / tovovan