Dumped My Cheating Ex. Now I'm Sleeping Next to a Billionaire CEO novel Chapter 1032

James held her hand as they reached the bottom of the staircase and started up. “I guess it’s because I’m in business now. I’ve even got Janus Sphere Technologies under my name,” he said. “They want me to come back, help train the next generation, and sort out some issues with new equipment. It’s kind of like bringing me in as a technical advisor and field guide at the same time.”

That finally made sense to Emmy. Her eyebrows shot up. “I thought active officers weren’t allowed to run businesses. You’re basically a CEO now, and they still want you back? The military must really not want to lose you.”

There was pride in her voice, not even trying to hide it. This was her man. Whether it was business or the battlefield, he was always at the top.

James grinned at her. “I grew up in the service. Never got in trouble, not even once. My chest is heavy with medals. After all these years, they trust me. So, sometimes, they make exceptions.”

He paused, stopping on the stairs. Turning, he glanced through the window at the guards patrolling outside. His eyes cooled, growing sharp.

“But trust is one thing. Rules are still rules. The guys stationed around the house, they say I can order them around, but they’re really here to keep an eye on me.”

Emmy followed his gaze. Outside, the sentries stood so straight they looked carved from stone. The night breeze played with the shadows, but nothing could shake the strict, almost overwhelming order out there. The military wanted to use a sharp blade, but they worried about getting cut.

She looked back at James, standing tall and straight beside her, steady as a mountain pine. Even with someone watching him, he still had that air—like nothing could hold him down.

“They’re probably scared,” Emmy said quietly. “Scared you’re too sharp, scared they can’t control you.”

James looked back at her, and when he saw the warmth in her eyes, all the tension in his face melted away. “Let them worry. As long as they don’t mess with our lives, they can do whatever they want. Come on, let’s head up.”

The wood stairs creaked under their feet, steep but sturdy. The whole building had this old-school vibe, solid and classic. James’s legs were long enough to take the steps two at a time, but he slowed down for her.

“This place is old. I’ve barely changed a thing. I know you’re not a fan of stairs. Maybe I should have an elevator put in.”

Emmy grabbed the rail and shook her head. “Don’t bother. I’m in good shape. The stairs are good for me. And anyway, an elevator would ruin the vibe. It’d be a shame.”

Emmy looked around. The room was huge, done up in the same vintage European style as the rest of the place, all cold lines and dark wood. Maybe because James hardly ever stayed here, the space felt empty and a little cold.

A moment later, James came out of the closet, frowning, holding a single oversized white dress shirt. He ran a hand over his face, looking frustrated. “Sorry. I completely forgot to have your stuff brought over.”

Emmy glanced into the closet. It was mostly empty, just a couple of black suits and a perfectly pressed uniform.

He handed her the shirt, apologetic. “You’ll have to make do tonight. I’ll have your clothes sent over in the morning.”

Emmy took the shirt with a shrug. “That’s fine.”

She didn’t make a fuss, just smiled, took the shirt, and slipped into the bathroom.