Terms and Conditions (Dreamland Billionaires, #2)

by Lauren Asher

“I’m sure there’s a certain charm about living next to active crime scenes, but you’ll get over it.”

“But that doesn’t mean you should give up your dream because you think my brothers’ are more important.”

“It’s not the right time.” “There’s never a right time to make a hard choice.”

Who would want to with a family like yours?” “If hell were a theme park, they would have lifetime passes.” My comment earns me a wheezy laugh.

“How did you survive growing up with so many social climbers?” “Easy. If you stop being social, there is no ladder for them to climb in the first place.”

“As to be expected for an introvert who hates social gatherings, small talk, and people in general.” “Then why do it in the first place?” “Because it’s expected.” Her braids shift as she tilts her head. “It must be exhausting putting on an image for the public.” “You have no idea.”

I was excited that she finally met someone who could treat her right. Someone who could prove that love can heal the soul as much as it can destroy it.

My actions say more about me and less about him. I put my needs aside because I thought it would make me happy to help others. And while it feels great to see everyone else achieve their dreams, it leaves me with a gaping hole in my chest. Nothing will change unless you do. Maybe Cal was right. If I keep making excuses for myself, I will never find the right time to take the next big step in my life.

Opportunities aren’t a matter of luck, but rather hard work and sacrifices.

“Marriage is like going on a road trip with the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, except you have no map or fancy GPS system to help you out. You might not always agree on what music to play or which direction you should go. I can guarantee there will be moments you want to rip your hair out—or each other’s. Just like there will be times that test you, where you think that maybe things would be easier if you hitch a ride with someone else. The point is, life is going to throw a lot of things at you. Stuff like flat tires, dead ends, and mechanical issues. But you can either make the most of the journey with one another or cry about never getting to your destination. No one can make the right decision but you.”