Prologue

 

People with good intentions make promises.

People with good character keep them.

—Unknown

​

He stands in the doorway to his daughter’s room, watching as she meticulously places her toys—Barbie dolls, blocks, and her Disney princess tea set—into their designated places in the toy box. She handles them with such care and consideration, as if they are precious treasures instead of mere playthings. As he observes her, memories flood his mind; she is the spitting image of her mother. From the curve of her dark, almond-shaped eyes to the curls in her brown hair, and even down to the way she scrunches up her nose when she laughs—so much of her is a mirror image of the woman who orchestrated the most significant moment of his life.

​

Lost in thought, the sound of her voice pulls him back to reality.

​

“Ready for bed?” he asks, stepping into the room.

​

She looks up at him with those same familiar eyes and nods, then climbs into bed alongside Fuzzy—her trusty stuffed teddy bear.

​

“I'm tired,” she says with a small yawn, snuggling deeper under the covers.

​

“Too tired for a bedtime story?”

​

“Uh-uh. See,” she says, blinking her heavy eyelids, doing her best to convince him.

​

“All right then. Let’s see ...” He scans the little bookshelf beside her bed, searching for something new and exciting to read. “We have Cinderella, of course ... Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs ... Sleeping Beauty ...”

​

“I want a new one.”

​

“A new one, huh?” He ponders before a lightbulb goes off in his head. “I think I have just the story.”

​

She beams a smile at him. “Does it have a princess?”

​

“Yes.”

​

“And a handsome prince?”

​

“Of course,” he answers in an over-dramatic voice as he runs a hand through his hair. “What kind of story would it be without a handsome prince?”

​

“What about monsters?” she asks in her scariest voice.

​

Monsters? He pauses, unsure if she’s ready to hear the full extent of this story. “Not in this one,” he says, deciding to save the unabridged version for another night.

​

Satisfied, the girl pulls the covers up around her chin, clutches Fuzzy tightly, and waits for the story to unfold …

​

Part I

​

​

Chapter 1

2017

 

Harper Emery's designer heels clicked against the marble floor as she strode purposefully through the atrium of her East Side high-rise. The thirty-year-old fashion executive wore a flawless navy-blue pinstripe suit that hugged her curves, accentuated by a dazzling smile, and chestnut hair that cascaded in perfect waves down her back. With each step she exuded confidence and poise, as if she was ready to take on the world.

​

“Morning, Ms. Emery!” the doorman called out, tipping his hat to her as she breezed past him.

​

“Good morning, David.” Her voice was smooth and velvety. 

​

As she exited the building, Harper was greeted by the sounds of honking car horns and the chatter of New York’s busy streets. For a moment, she paused to take it all in, feeling invigorated by the crispness of the spring air and the energy of the city around her. At seven-thirty sharp, Harper’s assistant, Kim Galloway, pulled up and opened the door of her SUV. “Good morning,” she said, greeting Harper with a smile.

​

“Good morning to you, too.” Harper slid into the back seat and glanced at her iPhone. “You’re on time again. Congratulations, I think you’ve finally mastered the midtown traffic. So what's on the agenda today?” 

​

“You have a meeting with Madeline from Vogue at nine, followed by a call with the design team at Elle at ten, and lunch with Bella from Gucci at eleven thirty.” 

​

“Excellent. How’s the afternoon looking?” 

​

“Jam-packed, as usual. But don’t worry—you should be finished in plenty of time to see Dr. Andrews. I had to pull a few strings, but I got you on his calendar at six, just as you requested. Oh, and one other thing,” Kim added as she merged into traffic, “Sidney called. She wants you to meet her for dinner at Gramercy Tavern at seven thirty.”

​

Harper stopped scrolling through her phone and looked up in surprise. “Sidney? I didn’t know she was in town.” She checked her unread texts and missed calls, but there was nothing from Sidney. “Did she happen to tell you what this is about?”

​

Kim shook her head, focusing on the cars in front of her. “Only that it was of the utmost importance—her words, not mine.”

​

In all the years Harper and Sidney had been friends—twenty-two to be exact—only twice had Sidney used the words utmost importance. Once, when she had been accepted into the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School, and more recently when she announced her engagement to Jason. Which meant that whatever she wanted to talk about was monumental. Huge. Life-changing.

​

On the bustling corner of 7th Avenue and 38th Street, Kim brought the car to a smooth stop. Harper gracefully exited from the backseat and disappeared into the towering skyscraper, its shimmering glass mirroring the busy city. In the lobby, she stepped into the elevator and rode it up to her office on one of the top floors. After saying good morning to the receptionist, she settled into her plush leather chair and opened her laptop. But before she could even open her first email, her phone began buzzing with an incoming call.

​

“It’s me,” said Kim in a panic. “There’s been a change of plans. Madeline just messaged me and said she needs to reschedule for next week. But,” she went on, “I just got off the phone with your old pal, Eleanor Le Roux. She wants to see you right away.”

​

Harper's heart stuttered. “Eleanor? Did she say what she wanted?”

​

“Only that it was urgent.”

​

“Oh.” Harper took a deep breath to calm herself. “Thanks for letting me know. Where are you now?”

“I'm turning around. I’ll meet you out front in two minutes.”

​

***

​

Harper's skin prickled with apprehension as she stepped into Chanel’s sleek Manhattan headquarters. She had spent five years as a designer under the notorious Eleanor Le Roux before starting her own company, so she was familiar with every inch of the building. However, their split had been anything but amicable. Some even called it cataclysmic. The fashion industry thrived on drama, but this was a fiery spectacle that few could forget. Despite the hurtful words, betrayal, and reckless accusations, this place still felt like home to Harper. 

​

“Hello, Harper.” Eleanor's presence was impossible to miss as she made her way across the lobby, dressed impeccably in a designer suit and high heels. The same ruthless aura that matched her cutthroat reputation seemed to radiate from her. She reached Harper with confident strides and greeted her with a strong handshake and a guarded smile. “It's great to see you again. How have you been?”

​

Harper scrutinized every detail of Eleanor’s demeanor, searching for any signs of treachery in her steely blue eyes. “I’ve been well, thank you,” she replied cautiously. “And yourself?”

​

“You know me ... busy as always.” The wistful smile faded from Eleanor’s lips as she ushered Harper toward the elevator. “You’re probably wondering why I asked you to meet me here.” 

​

“The thought did cross my mind,” Harper admitted, recalling the last time they were face to face; it hadn’t ended well.

​

“I suppose I could have called but felt like this conversation needed to be in person. I hope you don’t mind.” 

 

That depends. “Not at all.”

​

When they reached the 44th floor, Eleanor escorted Harper into the board room, the same one where they had first met all those years ago, and where they had waged war against one another at the end. The room was largely unchanged, still dominated by the imposing mahogany conference table, surrounded by high-backed chairs. On the walls hung photos of the latest Chanel collections and fragrances.

​

“I’d almost forgotten how incredible this view is,” said Harper, taking in the stunning sight of Central Park below and the majestic buildings surrounding it.

​

“Yes, it’s something, isn’t it?” Eleanor took a seat at the head of the table and offered Harper the seat adjacent to her. “I apologize for the last-minute summons,” said Eleanor, watching Harper with an appraising eye as she settled into the chair. “But I had a cancellation this morning, and I thought, what the hell, why not see if you were available.”

“It must be fate,” Harper remarked with a smile. “I too had a cancellation.”

“Oh?” 

“Apparently, there was a mix-up with Madeline Marceau's schedule, so she moved our meeting to next week.”

Eleanor let out a soft chuckle and said, “That sounds like Madeline, all right. But perhaps you're right; maybe this was meant to be.” She paused and stared at Harper. “I’m sorry, it’s just ... It seems like only yesterday that you were here, working for me. And now look at you, a star in your own right. It's amazing how quickly life can change, isn't it?”

​

“Yes, it is,” Harper answered cautiously, knowing Eleanor was aware of her recent personal and financial struggles. “I'm sorry, was there something specific you wanted to talk to me about?” 

​

“Yes,” Eleanor replied, her tone shifting from lighthearted to serious. “When we last spoke, I said some things that I’m not particularly proud of. I'll admit, I handled your departure poorly, and for that, I’m truly sorry. The truth is, you’re the most talented designer I know, and on top of that, you’re a genuinely good person. That’s why it hurt me so much when you told me you were leaving to start your own company. That, and I saw you as my protégé, someone who would take over for me when I decided to ride off into the sunset.”

​

Harper was speechless. She had never heard Eleanor apologize for anything, ever. 

​

“Your departure felt like ... like a betrayal,” Eleanor finally confessed.

​

Betrayal? Harper knew the feeling of being stabbed in the back all too well. 

​

“But I see now how selfish that was,” Eleanor added.

​

Harper felt a pang of guilt at Eleanor’s confession. “I'm sorry too,” she replied, feeling the resentment she’d been holding onto instantly melt away. “You took a chance on me when no one else would, and that’s something I’ve never forgotten.”

​

Eleanor glanced at Harper, her blue eyes softening beneath the lines of age. “I suppose we both could have handled things better,” she conceded. “But what matters now is reconciling and moving forward. Don’t you agree?”

​

Harper nodded, knowing this was a significant moment. “Yes. I couldn’t agree more.”

​

Eleanor let out a sigh of relief as a small smile made its way onto her face. “Wonderful. Now that we've got that settled, I want to talk about a potential collaboration between us. You’re aware that Chanel has always been known for its elegance, sophistication, and timeless beauty. However, we want to expand our target audience to include a younger, trendier crowd. That's where you come in.”

​

Intrigued, Harper leaned forward. “What do you have in mind?”

​

“I'd like us to work together on a limited-edition collection. I want your fresh perspective on fashion to merge with the classic Chanel style. The best of both worlds, if you will. With your attention to detail and unique vision, I believe we can attract a new generation of fashion-lovers while still staying true to our brand.”

​

Harper's mind raced. “Wow! I don't know what to say.”

​

“I hope you'll say yes,” said Eleanor as she reclined back in her chair.

​

“Yes! I'd be thrilled to work with you again.” Harper took out her phone and glanced at the calendar. “Is there a specific timeline you had in mind? Fall? Winter?”

​

“Fall. Which means time is of the essence. I know it's short notice, but with the combined efforts of our teams, I'm confident we can make it happen. But we need to get started right away. And just to clarify, this will require your full dedication and presence over the next few months, so I hope you weren't planning any time off.”

​

“No,” Harper responded, having already cleared her schedule to focus on her fledgling business. “You know my work is my life.”

​

Eleanor nodded approvingly. “Excellent,” she said as her lips curled into a smile. “In that case, I'll have my legal team draft up a contract right away.”

​

Before Harper left, Eleanor walked her to the door and added, “I also want you to know how truly sorry I am for what Grant did to you. It was a terrible betrayal, and I can only imagine how much it must have hurt you personally and professionally.”

​

Harper nodded in understanding. “Thank you. And thanks also for the flowers and card you sent. They meant a lot to me.”

​

“It’s the least I could do. Besides, we women have to stick together, right?”

​

“I suppose you’re right,” said Harper, offering her a thin smile. “Well, thanks again, and I look forward to hearing from you.”

​

On her way out, Harper stopped by her old friend Georgina Wright’s office. They had both joined Chanel at the same time, determined to make their mark in the fashion world. But unlike Harper, Georgina had found her calling on the financial side of things, rising through the ranks to become vice president of finance, controlling the purse strings of the global empire. 

​

She found Georgina hunched over her desk, reviewing what appeared to be profit and loss statements.

“Georgie,” Harper said softly, not wanting to startle her. “How are you?”

​

The young woman looked up from behind her trendy glasses. “Harper Emery! It's so good to see you,” she exclaimed, pulling her old friend in for a hug. “How have you been?” 

​

“Good, Georgie. You?”

​

She shrugged her shoulders while Harper sat down across from her. “You know me, same old, same old. So what brings you by?”

​

“I’m here on business, actually. Eleanor invited me.”

​

Georgina raised an eyebrow. “Really?”

​

“I was as shocked as you,” said Harper. “But our conversation was surprisingly pleasant. In fact, she wanted to discuss a partnership for the fall clothing line.”

​

Georgina leaned back in her chair, her initial shock replaced with a thoughtful expression. “A partnership? That doesn’t sound like Eleanor. Maybe the Iron Lady is mellowing in her old age. Although, now that I think of it, she always did have a soft spot for you.”

​

Harper laughed. “Hardly. Regardless, it couldn’t come at a better time for me or my company. After the money Grant stole from me, I really need this.”

​

Georgina nodded knowingly. “Well, it couldn’t happen to a better person.”

​

“Thanks, Georgie.” Harper stood to leave. “I know you’re busy, so I won’t take up any more of your time ... just wanted to drop by and say hello.”

​

“I’m glad you did. It’s been far too long. And the next time you’re this way, let me know and we’ll do lunch.”

​

“Yes, I’d like that.” 

​

As Harper moved toward the door, Georgina called after her. “Harper, wait. Just be careful with Eleanor, all right? I’m not saying her intentions are anything less than pure, but with her, there’s usually an ulterior motive.”

​

***

​

Harper took a deep breath as she settled into the backseat of Kim's car, still trying to process her conversation with Eleanor. 

​

“So, what did she want?” Kim asked anxiously.

​

“She wants to work together,” Harper replied, still in disbelief. “She needs our help to generate fresh ideas for her brand.”

​

“What!? Eleanor La Roux asking for help? From you? That’s ... that’s ... incredible! And unbelievable. Wait, you don’t think this is some kind of cruel joke, do you? A way for her to get back at you for leaving?”

​

Harper leaned back, considering the possibility. It was true—Eleanor had a reputation for being ruthless, but to kick Harper when she was down would be low, even for her. “I don’t know,” she said. “Eleanor seemed ... genuine.”

​

“Let’s hope so,” said Kim. “Because if it’s true, this could really turn things around for you.”

​

Harper nodded as a smile tugged at the corners of her lips. “I know. This is a game-changer, and not just for me. For all of us.”

​

“Wait until the team hears about this. They’re going to freak!”

​

“Actually ...” Harper raised a hand. “You can't breathe a word of this to anyone until I see the contract. Not even Marco. I don’t want everyone running around like chickens with their heads cut off before I know what we’re getting ourselves into. And if I know Eleanor,” she said, tilting her head and looking up at the towering building as they drove away, “there’s always a catch.”

​

***

​

Harper's hands shook slightly as she held the delicate porcelain teacup to her lips, the fragrant jasmine tea doing little to calm her nerves. Dr. Allen Andrews—an expert in dealing with broken hearts—had a reputation for direct yet gentle consultations. He was known to slice through the veils of denial and self-pity with surgical precision, exposing the raw wounds beneath.

​

To make his patients feel more at ease, he filled his office with comfortable armchairs and shelves of leather-bound books. It was calm, an oasis of sorts, and a stark contrast to the chaos inside her head.

“Harper,” Dr. Andrews said gently, snapping her back to reality. “The last time we spoke, you mentioned that your breakup with Grant has been quite difficult for you. Can you tell me more about that?”

​

Harper inhaled sharply, steadying herself as she recounted the painful experience. “It wasn't just the end of our relationship,” she said, twisting the teacup on her knee. “It felt more like the end of the world. I had invested so much time and energy into us, only to find out he was someone else entirely.”

​

Dr. Andrews nodded thoughtfully, his pen hovering over the notepad in his lap. “It's natural to feel betrayed and hurt when someone we love turns out to be different than who we thought they were. But remember, this is not a reflection on you or your worthiness of love.”

​

Tears clouded Harper’s vision. Her lip quivered. “I know that,” she said, blinking the tears away. “But it's still hard to accept. Despite my professional successes, I’ve been somewhat unlucky when it comes to love. I just thought that this time was different, that I'd finally found my someone.” She hung her head, embarrassed by her vulnerability. 

​

“What about your financial difficulties? Have you been able to navigate through those as well?” Dr. Andrews asked, shifting the topic subtly.

​

Harper’s gaze drifted to the window, where rain was beginning to patter against the glass. “Yes,” she murmured. “I mean, it hasn’t been easy, but I believe the worst is behind me.” She drew a breath and exhaled. “I’ll likely never see a penny of the money Grant took from me, but at least I still have my company. I’m just glad Sidney was there to lend a helping hand. Otherwise ...”

​

Dr. Andrews seemed to sense her discomfort and offered an encouraging smile. “You’re fortunate enough to have such an understanding and supportive friend, Harper. But don’t forget, it’s you who had the courage to ask for help and take control of the situation. That’s commendable.”

​

Harper offered a small smile in return. “I don’t feel courageous. I feel like I’m running on a treadmill, and at any moment now, I’m going to trip and fall flat on my face.” She paused, the knot in her stomach tightening. “But more than that, I feel ... broken.”

​

“Sometimes, courage doesn’t feel like a heroic act or a grand gesture. It feels like getting up in the morning when you’d rather stay in bed. It feels like taking one step after another, even when you’re not sure where the road, or the treadmill, is leading,” Dr. Andrews said. “And that brokenness you feel? Don’t worry. It too will heal. But you have to be patient and be willing to open your heart to love again.”

​

The room fell into a comfortable silence. The only sound came from the ticking of the clock on Dr. Andrews’ desk and the persisting throbbing of rain against the window.

​

Harper looked at him, her eyes welling up again. “I want to believe you, but I just keep circling back to the thought that maybe I'm not meant for love—that I'm somehow unlovable?”

​

“No.” Dr. Andrews shook his head slowly. “No one is unlovable, you included. You deserve the same happiness as everyone else, and it's crucial for you to understand that your past relationships, however unsuccessful they’ve been, do not define your future potential for love.”

​

Harper sniffed and wiped away a tear that had escaped before taking another sip of her tea. Then, forcing a small smile, she said, “Thank you, Dr. Andrews. You don’t know how much I needed to hear that.”

​

“Of course,” he replied with a gentle smile of his own. “Was there anything else you wanted to discuss?”

​

Harper hesitated, biting her bottom lip. “There is something else … someone else … It’s about Cameron.”

​

“The man you used to love before Grant?”

​

“Yes. I had thought I was over him, but recently … he’s been on my mind a lot.”

​

Dr. Andrews leaned back in his chair, studying Harper keenly. “Have you been in contact with Cameron? Or seen him lately?”

​

Harper shook her head. “No. I haven’t seen him in a long time. But these thoughts … these feelings … they just rushed back all of a sudden, and I don’t know why.”

​

Dr. Andrews folded his hands across his chest, looking thoughtful. “Dreams? Memories? What triggers these thoughts?”

​

“I’m not sure … Just little things, like the smell of toasted marshmallows or the sound of waves crashing.”

​

Dr. Andrews nodded, pulling gently at his lower lip in thought. “Sometimes when we face difficulties in our current relationships, our minds may drift to past ones where we felt loved or comfortable. It's a form of escapism.”

​

Harper looked up at him then. “But what if it’s more than that? What if I never truly moved on from him?”

​

Dr. Andrews steepled his fingers together. “Harper, the human heart is complex,” he began slowly. “And it's very possible that you may still be holding onto a piece of Cameron. But remember, just because you’re experiencing these feelings doesn’t mean you should act on them. Especially without clear understanding or perspective,” he added. “Rushing into decisions often leads to more harm than good.”

​

Harper nodded slightly. “I understand that, but if these feelings for Cameron never go away? What if I’m meant to be with him?”

​

Dr. Andrews leaned in, his expression serious. “Harper,” he said gently, “It is important to understand that the intensity of emotions can often trick us into thinking that they hold some greater truth or destiny. While it's crucial to acknowledge what you're feeling, it's equally important not to let those feelings drive impulsive decisions. If you truly believe there's a chance for something meaningful with Cameron, it warrants further introspection before any action.”

​

***

​

An hour and a half later, Harper stepped through the door of Gramercy Tavern. The scent of fresh herbs and garlic wafted to her nose, and as she took a deep breath, her stomach rumbled with anticipation.

Harper found Sidney sitting at a table in the back, wearing a chocolate brown cardigan that matched her eyes. 

​

“Harper,” said Sidney, standing and pulling her into a hug. “It’s so nice to see you.”

​

“It’s good to see you too, Sid,” Harper said as they parted.

​

“I was starting to think you weren't going to make it. It’s not like you to be late.”

​

“Sorry.” Harper shrugged out of her coat and settled into her seat. “I got here as soon as I could. Traffic is a­ nightmare.”

​

“Tell me about it. The drive into the city seemed to take forever.”

​

“So,” Harper began, taking note of Sidney’s appearance, “it looks like you finally decided to take my advice and go with a new hairstyle.”

​

Sidney laughed, running her fingers through her short, honey-colored waves. “Yes, I needed a change. And you know what? I think you were right. It suits me better.”

​

When the waitress appeared, Harper ordered wine and a brussels sprout salad while Sidney chose a chilled tomato soup. 

​

As they waited for their food to arrive, Harper filled Sidney in on her recent meeting with Eleanor. “She actually apologized for the way she treated me when I left. Can you believe it?” Harper shook her head in amazement.

​

“That's ... great!” Sidney replied. “Maybe things are finally turning around for you.”

​

“I hope so.” Harper sighed, her smile fading to a frown. “If only my love life would follow suit.”

​

“Speaking of that, the last time we spoke, you mentioned Dr. Andrews. Have you been to see him yet?”

​

“Yes,” Harper answered brightly. “As a matter of fact, I just came from his office. That's the reason I was almost late—our session ran long.”

​

“What did he say?”

​

“The usual—stay strong ... keep your head up ... don't lose hope ...” After a sip of wine, she added, “But he also said that the love of my life is waiting for me out there somewhere and that when I least expected it, things will fall into place for me.”

​

“He's absolutely right, you know. I've been saying the same thing for years. Maybe in the future, you should save yourself the hassle and expense and come to me instead. I’ll even give you the best friend discount,” she added with a playful wink.

​

Harper rolled her eyes. “I'll keep that in mind.” 

​

When the appetizers arrived, they devoured them before the conversation turned to Grant. 

​

“So you haven't heard from him?” Sidney asked as she dabbed the corners of her mouth with the napkin.

​

The question was unsettling. “No, and I don't expect to either. He's probably in Mexico or Greece, searching for his next unsuspecting victim. I just can't believe I allowed myself to be taken by a con man.”

​

“Don't be too hard on yourself. Grant had everyone fooled, me included. At least he's gone now, and you won't ever have to worry about him again.”

​

“I’ll drink to that.” Harper finished her wine and asked the waitress for another. “You know, I'm not asking for the world, Sid, just for someone to love me for who I am, not who I am in the fashion world.”

​

Sidney shifted her gaze to the side and whispered, “I do know of one man.”

​

“No.” Harper shook her head again and wagged a finger at Sidney. “Don't even go there. Cameron and I are just ... friends, I think. Besides, last I heard he was still on the other side of the world, saving the day. And anyway, we hardly talk anymore. I mean, we haven't spoken since ...” She paused, counting the months in her head. “Well, not in a long time.”

​

When the main course arrived, they ate while discussing Sidney’s flourishing real estate empire. 

“Business is booming,” she said in between bites of duck meatloaf. “Last quarter was my most profitable, which means I’m on track to retire by the time I’m forty.”

​

“That's great,” said Harper, and beamed a genuine smile at her. “You’ve always wanted to retire young and travel the world. And don’t worry, as soon as my company is back on its feet, I’ll repay you every penny ... with interest.” 

​

“Take your time,” she replied with a gentle wave of her hand. “I’m just happy to have been able to help, especially after all the times you’ve saved my ass over the years.”

​

Harper laughed as she recalled the drunken calls in the middle of the night, the emotional breakdowns after failed relationships, and the time she’d bailed Sidney out of jail for public indecency. Yes, over the years, Harper had played many roles: friend, therapist, rescuer. But their bond was not forged in these moments of desperation alone. Rather, it was the steady undercurrent of shared laughter, secrets, and dreams that truly held them together. Their friendship was a tapestry woven with threads of shared experiences and dyed in the colors of trust and intimacy. And this latest act of Sidney’s generosity was yet another strand added to their rich history.

​

Sidney gave a lopsided grin and raised her glass. “Here’s to us. To a friendship that may bend but never breaks, no matter what life throws at us.”

​

“To us,” said Harper, and clinked glasses. She took a sip of wine, then speared an asparagus shoot with the end of her fork and held it in front of her. “So, how’s Jason?” she asked, changing the subject. “Last time we talked, you said he was working on a new book.”

​

“Jason is great,” Sidney replied. “His book’s almost finished, and he thinks this is the one that will take him to the next level. Honestly, I’ve never seen him happier.”

​

“Really? That’s pretty exciting.” Harper paused, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “And what about you, Sid? Are you happy ... with Jason, I mean?”

​

“Absolutely. Why wouldn’t I be?”

​

Harper shrugged, setting the fork down on her plate. “It’s just ... Are you sure he’s the one? I mean, don’t get me wrong, I adore him and think he’s the perfect guy for you, but—”

​

“But what?”

​

“Well, after everything that happened with Steven, I just want to make sure you’ve put those issues behind you and that you’re ready for a committed relationship.”

​

Sidney glanced down at her half-empty wine glass, swirling the dark liquid around slowly. "I appreciate your concern, Harper," she said carefully. "But like I’ve told you, that’s all behind me now. Besides, Steven was as much to blame as me. But with Jason, it’s different. I’m different, and I don’t ever want to go back to being that person again.”

​

“Good,” said Harper. Hearing the sincerity in Sidney’s voice gave Harper hope that this time would be different. But as life had taught her, change was not easy. Pushing aside her doubts, she took a bite of asparagus, chewed, and swallowed before adding, “Because I want you to be happy, Sid. I truly do.” 

​

“I know,” Sidney replied, reaching for Harper’s hand. “And that means everything to me.”

​

“So,” Harper began, trying to lighten the mood, “have you and Jason set a date for the wedding or are you still mulling it over?”​