Page 203 of Champagne Nights

“Acting what way, Kirsten?” I spoke through gritted teeth as I slightly leaned across the table. I stopped myself and took in a deep breath. “I’m sorry. I just have a lot going on at work. I don’t mean to take it out on you.”

“I know you don’t, baby. I’m sorry for pushing you.” She reached over and placed her hand on top of mine. “I love you, Henry.”

Hearing her say those words sent ice through my veins. I picked up my scotch and threw it down the back of my throat.

After we finished eating, Christian dropped Kirsten off at her apartment.

“I wish you’d come up,” she whined as she ran her hand across my chest. “You don’t have to spend the night.”

“You know I can’t.”

“Then I guess I’ll have to take care of myself.”

Normally, if a woman said that to me, I’d be incredibly turned on, but in this case, I wasn’t.

“Did you forget I’m going away with my mom this weekend?”

“No. I haven’t forgotten. We have a couple more days until you leave. Now I have to go.” I kissed her forehead.

I climbed into the back of the limo and let out a sigh. The only woman I could think about tonight was Ellie. In my mind, I kept replaying our encounter at the grocery store—how hersmile could light up a thousand rooms, her eyes that told stories, and how beautiful she was when she signed.

As soon as Christian dropped me off at home, I changed out of my clothes and into a pair of pajama bottoms. After pouring myself a scotch, I climbed into bed and picked up my phone from the nightstand. Bringing up Ellie’s number, I sent her a message.

“Are you up?”

“Yes.”She sent the smiling emoji.

“What are you doing?”

“Reading a book.”

“Sounds relaxing. Which book are you reading?”

“The Alchemist. Have you heard of it?”

“I have, and I’ve read it. It’s good.”

“I’m halfway through, and I really like it.”

“I’m happy to hear that. I’ll let you get back to reading. I’m looking forward to having lunch with you tomorrow.”

“Me too.”She sent the smiling emoji.

“Goodnight, Ellie.”

“Goodnight, Henry.”

I set my phone down on the charger, finished off my scotch, and turned off the light.

The next morning,I was sitting in my office when my father walked in.

“Hey, Dad.” I looked up from my computer.

“Hello, son. I want you to take a look at this company and report back to me.” He handed me a file folder.

“Sure thing.”

“How are the wedding plans coming along?” he asked as he took a seat across from me.

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