“It’s more than the money,” Maisy said. “I’m not the right woman for Chase. We—”
“I disagree,” Simon said, cutting her off. “If I were to handpick a wife for my son, it would be you. He knew you were the one soon after you met. I understand, because it was that way when I met his mother.
“You have Chase’s heart, and that isn’t going to change. I married twice after Michelle left, but it was a lost cause. She was the only woman I ever truly loved.”
Maisy listened intently, unsure what to think. She’d assumed she was doing them both a favor by stepping aside so Chase could meet a woman better suited to his wealth and prestige. Now she was confused and uncertain.
“Whatever differences you feel are keeping you apart can be resolved if you feel half as strongly for Chase as he does for you.”
Maisy swallowed hard and found her mother studying her intently. “You love him. If you’re doing this for the family, then, dear heart, you’re cheating yourself. Did you hear what Simon had to say? Chase never lied to you. He’s done nothing but show you his love.”
“What about you and Grams…”
Her mother stopped her. “Don’t you realize your grandmother and I want nothing more than for you to be happy? If Grams were here, she’d tell you that herself. Besides, she’s got anew man in her life, and Lloyd is going to do everything within his power to keep her close to his side.”
“What about my classes? I…”
Simon was the one to answer. “Lots of excellent colleges in Chicago, so that’s a weak excuse.”
A tingling sensation came over Maisy. She was torn. Her heart was pounding hard and strong enough to sound in her ears.
“Does Chase know you’re here?” Maisy asked.
Simon snickered. “Hardly.”
“Maisy.” Her mother rested her arm on Maisy’s hand. “The decision is yours. If you love Chase, and I believe you do, then go to him and settle this. Simon claims he’s miserable, but, sweet girl, so are you. The two of you belong together.”
“I’m flying back to Chicago. Why don’t you join me?”
She nodded vigorously. “I…my job.”
“Go,” her mother insisted. “You don’t work for the next two days, if the schedule you posted on the refrigerator is right.”
Maisy couldn’t sit still. “I’ll pack an overnight bag and be right back.” She flew out of the kitchen and took the stairs two at a time.
—
The flight into Chicago sped by, with Simon entertaining Maisy with stories of Chase as a boy. The distraction helped ease her nervousness. She’d been so quick to judge Chase, so certain he’d been lying. He claimed he needed her; what she hadn’t fully appreciated was how much she needed him. Her life felt empty without Chase. She’d insisted on a clean break, thinking that it would be less painful…that in time she’d be able to move on. She knew now that would have been impossible. Chase wouldalways be in her heart. Always there to remind her of what she’d once had.
When they landed, a car and driver awaited their arrival.
“Where are we going?” she asked, wanting to see Chase as soon as possible. Waiting until morning seemed intolerable.
“Chase’s condo.”
“But it’s late, and he might not appreciate the interruption.”
“True, but he won’t be upset with me when he sees I brought you.” Simon appeared to be enjoying himself.
When they reached Chase’s building, the doorman greeted Simon.
“Is my son in for the evening?” he asked.
“Yes, Mr. Furst.” Before she followed Chase’s father, the doorman gave her a huge smile and winked. Maisy smiled back.
“Wonderful.” Simon led Maisy to the elevator bank, and they ascended to the top floor.
Simon rang the doorbell, and it seemed a horribly long time before Chase answered. He froze when he saw Maisy with his father.
