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Part 2The Laziest Billionaire

About 2,898 characters · Part 2 of the three Parts printed here.

Aiden’s brow furrowed, as if he could see right through Naomi’s little scheme. "Claire just got here. Why would she stay in a guest room? She's family, not a guest."

"I get it, Aiden. In this family, I'm the only one who's an outsider…" Naomi’s voice broke, and she started to cry.

I saw Aiden roll his eyes. I wanted to do the same, but it felt like too much work.

"I'll sleep anywhere," I said, breaking the tension. "As long as it has a window for ventilation."

Aiden let out a breath of relief, seemingly glad that the 'real heiress' wasn't going to be difficult. "Then pick any room you like, except for Mom and Dad's. I'll personally see to your permanent room tomorrow."

Naomi looked crestfallen. "But Aiden, I can arrange the room for my sister…"

Aiden completely ignored her, speaking only to me. "I have a meeting at the office this afternoon. If you need anything, we can talk when I get back tonight."

"Okay," I mumbled, melting back into the sofa cushions.

He shook his head, a hint of amusement and resignation in his eyes at my profound laziness. Then he was gone, clearly a man with important responsibilities.

The moment he left, Naomi's demeanor changed. "Sister," she said, her smile returning, "let me show you to a wonderful room. I'm sure you'll love it."

"Fine."

I reluctantly pushed myself to my feet. Honestly, if they'd let me just strip down and pass out on the living room floor, I would have stayed right there. Moving was such a chore. I knew this girl was up to something, but I was too tired to care.

Sure enough, she led me to a room on the second floor.

It was immaculate. A faint, sterile scent of lavender hung in the air, and every object was arranged with obsessive precision. It was clearly the room of someone with a serious case of OCD. And from my limited observations, the prime candidate for that in this house was Aiden.

My suspicion was confirmed when I saw a framed photo of him on the desk.

I shot a weary glance at Naomi. Seriously? Did this girl really think I was that stupid?

But she feigned ignorance, smiling brightly. "If you like it here, Sister, you can get some rest."

"Fine." I nodded.

I knew she was setting a trap, but the thought of searching for another room was physically painful. All I wanted was a shower and to lie down until I fused with the mattress.

Naomi couldn't hide a triumphant little smirk as she scurried out, as if afraid I'd change my mind.

I took my shower and collapsed onto the bed.

Sometime after dark, I was jolted awake by the sound of a soft cough. Aiden was standing by the bed, dressed in a sharp, tailored black suit. His face was a cold mask, an unspoken demand for an explanation hanging in the air.

Naomi was right beside him, her voice a soft, poisonous whisper. "Aiden, I tried to stop her. I told her you were a neat freak and couldn't stand anyone in your space, but Sister just wouldn't listen. She insisted on this room."