I said finally.
“Of course. Take all the time you need. But Elizabeth, whether you agree to any of this or not, I meant what I said about wanting to see you again. That part is real. No manipulation involved.”
We exchanged phone numbers before parting. Julian kissed me goodbye, another gentle kiss that made my heart race. Then I was driving back to Denver with my thoughts in turmoil. The next week passed in a blur of work and confusion. Julian texted me daily, casual messages about his day that gradually built into longer conversations. We talked about everything and nothing. Books we’d read, places we wanted to travel, childhood memories that shaped us. He never pushed about his proposition, never brought up Victoria or revenge or any of it. He just talked to me like I was someone worth knowing. On Friday, he called.
“I have a business dinner next Thursday in Denver. A potential client I’m trying to woo. Would you want to join me? Fair warning, it might be boring corporate talk, but I’d love your company.”
“Are you sure? I don’t know anything about renewable-energy consulting.”
“That’s exactly why I want you there. You’ll keep me honest. Keep the conversation from disappearing completely into jargon. Plus, the restaurant is supposed to have an incredible pastry chef. I thought you might enjoy critiquing their desserts.”
I laughed despite myself.
“You’re bribing me with professional reconnaissance.”
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“Is it working?”
“Yes. What’s the dress code?”
Thursday arrived faster than I expected. I left work early to prepare, changing into a black dress that was elegant without being flashy. Julian picked me up at seven, looking devastatingly handsome in a dark suit. The restaurant was upscale, the kind of place where the menu doesn’t list prices and the wine list requires a sommelier to navigate. Julian’s client was already there, a middle-aged woman named Patricia, whom I recognized from Victoria’s wedding. She had been at our table, one of Gregory’s colleagues from Bennett Health Solutions. Her eyes widened with recognition when she saw me.
“Elizabeth, what a lovely surprise. I didn’t realize you and Julian were still together.”
“Still together and going strong,”
Julian said smoothly, his hand warm on my back.
“Elizabeth has been patient with my crazy work schedule.”
We sat, and I tried to fade into the background as Julian and Patricia discussed the sustainability project, but Patricia kept pulling me into the conversation, asking about my work, expressing genuine interest in the bakery where I worked.
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