“It’s not your fault. I didn’t tell Ava the truth, and I was reckless in how I ended it.”
How could I marry someone I didn’t love? The Montages weren’t known for their kindness or understanding. I wanted Ava as far away from me—fromthem—as possible.
In my fantasy world, I thought I could get Ava back after things settled. What a fool I was. Why would she want me back after I’d dumped her over text? She didn’t want to talk to me and left all my belongings in the box outside of her apartment. Rhea had called me to pick it up. Ava didn’t even want any of her belongings that she kept at my place.
“Can you reconcile with Ava?”
“Maybe.”I hope so.
The reply surprised me. If he had asked me this a month ago, the answer would’ve been a hard no. But now, I felt hope floating around me.
When my dad asked for this meeting, I wasn’t sure what it was about. But now I knew he was seeking forgiveness.
“You made some bad investments, and you were sick and weren’t seeing things properly,” I said. “But now you’re better.”
He nodded. “I’m sorry for the pressure I placed on you. The company was failing, and we lost a lot of money. I thought the engagement to the Montage family would help.” He placed a hand on his chest. “I want you to be happy, Austin. Don’t sacrifice your happiness for the family anymore.”
Ava’s face appeared in my vision.
“If I hadn’t been so stubborn, things would’ve been easier on you.” He glanced up at the ceiling. “Our ancestorsare always watching over us. They guided you to a supportive friend to help in times of need.” He was referring to Remington Starke, who had invested in me during that difficult time.
I’d met him years ago, and we’d become friends. His financial support helped Tanner Properties from sinking into the black hole. Before I met him, I’d bought an abandoned building close to the thriving business section of Natick. Lack of finances had slowed down my condominium project until Remington. Remi’s architect friend, Grayson Wu, helped escalate the exterior and interior design efficiently. It didn’t take me long to pay Remi back.
“Your condo project saved our family.” My dad grinned. “Why didn’t you tell me and your mom about it?”
“It wasn’t complete yet, and I didn’t want to jinx it, you know?”
“I do.” He smiled. “Unlike me, you’re thorough and patient.”
He rose and walked over to my chair, placing a hand on my shoulder. “Can you forgive me, son?” His eyes gleamed with tears.
I didn’t know I needed his apology until it landed in my chest, melting the iceberg that sat at the pit of my stomach.
“Yes.” I got up and offered him a hug.
A heavy weight lifted off me, making me feel hopeful. After a quick chat with my mom, my parents headed out to the art museum.
I grabbed my coat and walked out to my car.
“Austin!” Sierra’s voice sliced through the air.
I turned to see her rushing up to me with her high-heeled boots. “Where are you going? I have tickets toA MidsummerNight’s Dreamat the Hanover tomorrow night. I want you to come with me.”
It wasn’t a question, but a demand.
“I’m busy.”
“Doing what?” she retorted.
“I’m seeing someone,remember?” I said, reminding her that if any harm were done to me, my family, or my girlfriends after the broken engagement I would release video evidence of her hiring someone to eliminate the daughter of Senator Lawson from New York.
Remi introduced me to some of his friends who could access private information quickly and discreetly. I had to protect myself from the Montages, and now I had plenty of protection.
“So?” She smirked and ran a hand down my arm. “You can still accompany me as a friend.”
“She won’t like that.”
“Why are you hooked on her? Why can’t you give us a chance?”
