Page 53 of Love Unscripted
Camille raised a brow. “Is that so?”
“Yes.”
“Legitimate, I hope.”
“Camille, what are you suggesting?”
“Well, you’ve been involved in Ponzi schemes in the past, Papa.”
“No, those were legitimate ventures that didn’t work out. There are risks in any business. I know you’re still angry about the tax issue, but I stand by my position. I believe the government unfairly taxes its citizens.”
“That’s ludicrous. Whether you agree with taxes or not doesn’t change the fact that they’re legally required. I can’t believe you’re still defending this.”
“You can’t deny I made some good investments for you.”
“What was the point when I had to liquidate most of them to pay fines and penalties? Let’s not discuss this. Why did you want to see me?”
“How’s my wife? I haven’t heard from her in a while.” He still referred to Rita as his wife, which, technically, she was even though they had been separated for the last four years.
“She’s well.”
“Is she seeing anyone?”
“Not that I’m aware of. Are you?”
“Me? Oh no. So, how’s the new movie going?” he asked.
“Quite well.”
There was a pause.
“Simon Halden called me yesterday,” Carlo said.
“Simon calledyou? Why?”
“He said that he wanted my support in trying to get you back in his life. I told him I wasn’t sure how much influence I still had with you.” He paused, waiting. When she didn’t respond, he continued. “He said he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get you back. Full creative control. More money.”
“He already told me that.”
“There’s one thing thatisnew.” Carlo cleared his throat. “He asked me for your hand in marriage. Said that his divorce is now final.”
Tears welled unexpectedly. “That’s too little, too late. I hope he didn’t leave his wife for me. I don’t want him. He’s a terrible person. And I can’t believe you’re endorsing him—what is he paying you?”
Her father looked wounded. “That’s unkind. He begged me for help, and I believe he truly cares for you. I’m sure that a man like him can get any woman he wants.”
“I assume the show’s ratings dropped after I left. That’s why he’s pursuing me. Simon doesn’t love me. He never did. Lust isn’t the same thing as love.”
“Well, I delivered the message. That’s all. I’m done now.”
“Good.”
“So, Camille—about the business venture. I wanted to offer you an opportunity to get in on it.”
“No, Papa.”
“You haven’t heard me out.”
This was the boundary. And it hurt.
