Page 221 of Champagne Nights

“I didn’t give them the chance to clarify. I stormed upstairs, threw a few things in a bag, and headed here. I will not let them dictate who I can and cannot date. And if they think they’re going to threaten me with the company, I don’t care. I’drather work somewhere else than have them control my life. No offense, big brother.”

“Well, you won’t have to worry about them harassing you anymore because their focus will be on me now.” I brought the glass of scotch up to my lips.

“Why? What did you do?”

“I broke up with Kirsten tonight.” I finished off my drink.

“What? Oh my God. Why?” Her eyes widened.

I took a seat on the couch, and Addison sat down next to me.

“Because I’m not in love with her, and I’ve been miserable.” I glanced over at her.

“Good reason.” She patted my shoulder. “Do the parents know yet?”

“I haven’t told them. I’m waiting for my phone to ring because I’m sure Kirsten wasted no time either calling them or running to their house. She was really devastated.”

“I’m sure she was, but I can’t say I feel sorry for her.”

“Why?” I asked Addison.

“Because I never liked her. You know that. I always thought she was an entitled phony bitch.”

I let out a chuckle.

“Is there someone else, Henry?”

I rubbed my face with my hands and let out a sigh.

“Yes and no.”

“What do you mean?” Her face took on a confused look.

“I did meet someone and she’s an amazing woman, but I haven’t slept with her.”

“Who is she?”

I looked over at her as a small smile crossed my lips.

“Her name is Ellie Scott. She’s a website designer and an artist. I don’t know, Addison.” I got up from the couch and paced around the room. “She’s such a beautiful woman inside and out. My life feels right when I’m with her. I knew I wasn’t happy withKirsten, but I didn’t really realize how completely miserable I was until I met Ellie.”

“Wow, Henry. I’ve never seen you like this before. I’d love to meet her.”

“You will. There’s something else you should know about her.”

“What?”

“She’s deaf.”

“Oh wow. Really? And the two of you can communicate okay?”

“Yes.” I smiled. “You know I know sign language. She can read lips really well, and she can speak.”

“I’m happy for you. I really am. But Mom and Dad are going to be pissed as hell?”

“I don’t care anymore. They’ll either accept it or they won’t.”

“You already know the answer. You know how they are. Especially with her being?—”

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