A Billionaire Takes Her Daughter to Blind Date—Then Sees a Single Dad and Does the Unbelievable.
The Unforgivable Blind Date
Victoria Ashford stood in the elegant restaurant lobby, her 5-year-old daughter Sophia clutching her hand. At 34, Victoria had built Ashford Enterprises into a luxury fashion empire worth billions, but tonight she felt like a nervous teenager.
Her assistant had convinced her to try one last blind date. His name is James. He’s a contractor who runs his own business. My cousin knows him and says he’s genuine.
Looking at the upscale venue, Victoria second-guessed everything. Her babysitter had cancelled and Sophia had begged to come along.
“Please Mommy, I promise I’ll be good.”
Victoria had relented, figuring she’d cancel the date anyway once she arrived. But as she turned to leave, she saw him.
A man in a simple gray t-shirt and jeans sat at a table near the window, completely out of place among the suited diners. He had dark hair, a strong build, and an easy smile as he talked to the little girl across from him.
She was maybe 6 years old, wearing a bright pink dress. The hostess approached Victoria.
“Miss Ashford, your table is ready. Mr. Bennett is waiting.”
Victoria’s eyes widened. That’s my date with the little girl.
“It appears both parties had childcare issues tonight.”
The hostess smiled.
“Shall I seat you?”
Victoria looked down at Sophia, who was already staring at the little girl with interest.
“Okay. Yes.”
As they approached the table, James stood. Up close, he was even more handsome—rugged and genuine, with kind eyes that showed surprise and relief.
“You brought your daughter too,” he said, smiling. “I’m James. This is my daughter Lily.”
“Victoria, this is Sophia.”
Victoria felt herself relaxing.
“I was about to leave. I thought bringing a child to a blind date was unforgivable.”
“So did I. Glad we’re both unforgivable together.”
James pulled out chairs for them.
“Lily’s mother passed away 3 years ago. It’s been just the two of us. My babysitter cancelled last minute. I’m so sorry.”
Victoria sat down, helping Sophia into her chair.
“I’m divorced. Sophia’s father wasn’t interested in being a parent. He hasn’t seen her in 2 years.”
The girls were already bonding, whispering about their stuffed animals. Sophia had brought a unicorn; Lily had a teddy bear in her backpack.
