Begin Again: A Stay Novella Read online

  Until it had gone bad.

  Her instincts screamed for her to run when the song ended before he could utter words she wasn’t ready to hear. Owen had followed her lead and drove her home in relative silence. But his gaze haunted her in her dreams, along with the kiss she still couldn’t forget.

  Tonight, she had her big date with Drew. Chloe wanted to give him the chance he deserved. It wasn’t fair for her not to explore their relationship, especially since she’d worked so hard to put Owen in the past. But a part of her also recognized tonight was a test. She wasn’t a game player. If she wasn’t experiencing the seeds for growth in their relationship, Chloe would end it. It wasn’t fair to lead either Drew or Owen to play them off one another.

  She sensed Owen knew she’d be seeing Drew tonight and decided to back off. God knows, she appreciated the space. Lately, her emotions spun so hard, she only wanted clarity.

  Chloe spent the late afternoon at site visits, her favorite part of the job. She checked on her fosters and abused animals settled into local shelters. By the time she’d finished up, she was running late, so she quickly showered and changed, deciding to dress a bit more sophisticated tonight for the Wall Street crowd. Her dress was a silky navy blue that spilled to the floor and left her back bare. She paired it with the sapphire necklace and drop earrings her father had given her last Christmas, slid her feet into platform silver heels, and was thankfully ready when Drew buzzed in.

  Casting one last longing look at her slippers and TV, she got ready to dazzle for the evening. He waited outside with his driver, and his gaze lit with appreciation as she walked toward him. “You look beautiful,” he said with a smile, flashing a devastating set of dimples. “I’m going to be the luckiest guy in the room.”

  Chloe smiled back. “Thank you. And I’d say…ditto.” He cut a handsome figure in his custom suit, the material emphasizing his trim build and muscles. The expensive Italian shoes were leather. She wondered if they were vegan, then pushed the thought from her mind. Sometimes it was better not to know. Drew liked the finer things in life, which sometimes meant products she refused to purchase in protection of the animals. But now wasn’t the time for such a serious dialogue.

  He laughed and guided her into the car, where champagne was already chilling. “A pre-cocktail to celebrate.”

  “Did you close a new deal?”

  He poured and handed her a delicate crystal flute. “No, but I get to spend the evening with you so that’s a good reason. Did you like the flowers?”

  She shifted in her seat. “Yes, I texted you. They’re stunning.”

  “Roses remind me of you. There’s a classic mystery to them I always enjoyed, and of course, timeless elegance.”

  She gave him points for the description, even if he’d never thought to just ask what flowers she enjoyed. She was used to dealing with alpha men, though, especially in the world her father walked in, so Chloe had no problem holding her own. “How was your week?”

  He filled her in on some complex deals she found interesting, and they talked about the economy and predictions with ease. Then Drew paused, resting a palm on her knee, squeezing gently. “I haven’t dated many women who were able to discuss finance in depth. It’s refreshing.”

  “I took a lot of economics courses. My father always said history and the economy is something we need to learn from due to concrete patterns that play out.”

  “Brains and beauty. I’m going to have to step up my game so I don’t lose you.”

  She frowned at the odd statement. “What do you mean?”

  Drew hesitated. “I saw a photo from last night’s event. Is he someone I need to worry about?”

  She jerked slightly. Dammit, of course it was in the press. They usually ignored her responses to hard questions, and focused on their speculation of whether her escorts were professional or personal. Drew had been mentioned a lot these past weeks as her current love interest. “Owen’s working with me on the Spagarelli case,” she said, wondering how much truth to give him. “Vivian got sick and asked him to accompany me.”

  He let out a breath, his face relaxed. “Got it. I didn’t mean to push; I know we never spoke of dating exclusively. I just wanted to know if I had competition.”

  She opened her mouth to explain a bit more about their shared past, but they’d suddenly arrived. Drew spoke to the driver, and she was whisked inside to a private room.

  The elegant French restaurant was known for its cutting-edge menu, elegant décor, and exorbitant prices. Personally, she preferred her food presented in larger portions, but she was already impressed with the long banquet table decorated with snowy white china, sparkling crystal, and low bowls of cream-colored flowers floating in water. The floor to ceiling windows overlooked the gardens, where couples were already mingling, strolling with drinks in hand.

  Drew took her hand. His grip was warm and firm. “I can’t wait to show you off,” he said with a sexy wink, leading her to the terrace.

  Once again, she wondered why it seemed she was always referenced as an object to brag about. Of course, he probably meant it as a compliment, but her looks were the thing she cared the least about, even as someone in the public eye. Her most cherished moments were spent in jeans and T-shirt with dirty sneakers, covered in dog hair. Drew definitely preferred the spotlight of well-attended functions and loved to share stories of who he met when he was out, along with the most popular new venues in the city.

  Not that there was anything wrong with being social. It was a good thing.

  She put her smile to full-power and spent the next hour sipping wine and getting to know the roughly dozen of his staff. They were all men, which surprised her. Drew seemed to respect women, and she’d expected more females in high-powered positions. The more time she spent chatting, the more she realized how different the men’s companions were.

  Chloe was used to cliques in high society, so when she’d found her tribe with animal rescue, it was as if she could finally relax into being herself. But the women’s judging gazes on her dress, her shoes, her bag, and the pointless questions about where she lived and what it was like to be the governor’s daughter left her cold. No one held a job, and they seemed to be most concerned with how they looked to one another, and especially to their husbands or lovers. They spoke of tennis and golf, places to lunch, names of popular stylists and home designers, and skimmed the surface of any true conversation.

  By the time they sat down to dinner, Drew seemed to be holding court. They laughed at his jokes, complimented him on the last deal he’d closed, and basically kissed his ass. Chloe felt as if she was stuck at a political dinner except occasionally her father would shoot her a suffering, sorry look and make her laugh. They’d agreed there had always been too many large egos in politics. Her dad taught her real power was not in leading but by serving because that was where the real work was done. It was obvious at this table Drew was king and enjoyed ruling his team.

  “Chloe, I find it amazing you’re such a crusader. It’s so refreshing,” Emma gushed to her right, platinum blonde hair pulled high on top of her head in a model-like pony. The style emphasized the smooth skin, wrinkle-free, pulled tight over her face. “I had to quit so many of my charities once Brett got promoted. There was so much to do all the time, and of course, now we’re trying to get pregnant so I’ll be super busy.”

  Chloe tilted her head. “Well, it’s my actual job I get paid for,” she said, trying not to roll her eyes. “I’m not volunteering at a charity, but thank God for all our volunteers or we’d never be able to do the work needed.”

  Drew grinned from the head of the table, shooting Chloe a look of adoration. “My girlfriend wants to save the world, one animal at a time. She’s going to do big things for the Foundation one day.”

  Chloe tried not to wince at the term. They’d never discussed dating exclusively and she didn’t feel comfortable with being called his girlfriend. But she couldn’t call him out here. “That’s right, you give a lot
to those rescue places, don’t you?” Brett asked. “I had a dog when I was growing up. German shepherd. One of the smartest breeds—she was my best friend.”

  The crowd sighed and made little sounds of approval. “Advocates for Animals does much more than rescue. We’re currently in a civil action suit trying to shut down a hoarding situation. We get involved in closing down puppy mills, pit bull fighting rings, and dozens of other causes that need attention.”

  Drew nodded. “Chloe takes her work seriously. Can you imagine what type of mother she’ll make?”

  “Drew, I’ve never seen you like this. You’re positively adorable,” Sarah drawled from across the table. Her husband, Adam, was Drew’s right hand, and they were obviously a power couple. The whole time Chloe was speaking with them, she was regaled with tales of expensive vacations that took place on safari expeditions and sleek yachts.

  Adam laughed. “You got it bad, buddy. Nice to see a woman who may finally tame you. It’s time for you to join our club—we’ve been needing new members.”

  Horror slowly trickled over her as Chloe witnessed herself being talked about like she wasn’t here. Had Adam literally hinted at marriage? And had Drew actually mentioned she’d be a good mother, like he was parading her out for opinions? She waited for Drew’s answer, hoping he’d save the situation, but instead, he shot her a wink. “I’ve gotten to this point by going after what I want without fear. Love should be looked at the same, don’t you think?”

  The group enthusiastically agreed, citing Drew’s bravery for putting himself out there, and that Chloe was a lucky woman. No one bothered to ask her about their relationship. Hell, it seemed she was just supposed to shut her mouth, look pretty, and agree.

  Chloe glanced at her watch, wondering when she could go home.

  Coffee and dessert followed, but she noticed it was a light sorbet with no calories, and most of the women groaned and mentioned their designer dresses or not-yet-pregnant bellies for the reason most were left behind.

  She ate and relished every last bite.

  Finally, they finished up and walked out. Drew held her hand and she let him. Chloe air kissed all six of the women who promised to ping her online about getting together, and she never broke her stride or her smile. They’d just reached the sidewalk where Drew’s car waited when the lightbulbs flashed in her face.

  “Chloe—are you dating two different men?”

  “Chloe—was this evening for another fundraiser or personal?”

  “Drew—what’s it like dating the most famous bachelorette in the city?”

  She grit her teeth and suffocated the scream that wanted to rip from her mouth. How had they known she was here? This was not a good time to be bombarded, especially when Drew held her hand, even when she tried to gently tug away from his grip. Before she could say a word, Drew turned toward the group of paparazzi and gave a charming grin.

  “This was a private dinner I hosted for my team at D&D Finance Investments. Chloe was kind enough to accompany me. As for how it feels to date one of the most beautiful, accomplished women in New York?” He beamed down at her. “It’s pretty damn awesome.”

  Laughter rose up. More questions attacked her from all ends, along with the cameras. She tried to ease toward the open door of the car, pulling him with her, and the rest seemed to happen in slow motion.

  Drew stepped in, bent over, and kissed her.

  Bulbs exploded.

  The kiss was short, leaving her staring at him in shock. He turned and gave his sexy wink to the reporters. “If you’ll excuse us, it’s time for us to have some needed privacy,” Drew announced. “Come on, sweetheart.”

  She slid into her seat and the door closed. He must’ve said something else, because there was a few more flashes, then Drew climbed into the other side, motioning for his driver to go.

  He shot her a warm glance, obviously not understanding the reason for her icy silence. “Well, that was fun. Everyone adored you, just like I knew they would. Did you have a good time?”

  Endless responses swirled in her brain, but she wondered if they’d been on different pages this whole time. Drew wasn’t what she’d thought. He wasn’t a bad man, and she bet many women would love to be pampered and adored by him.

  He just wasn’t the man for her.

  “Drew, why did you kiss me in front of those reporters?” she asked.

  His brow marred in obvious confusion. “I wanted to show them I was serious about you. That we’re a couple.”

  Her temples suddenly throbbed and a bone weariness overcame her. “I’m sorry, I think we may have misunderstood each other. I’ve had a wonderful time with you, but I don’t feel like we’re right for each other.”

  He blinked. “You can’t be serious, Chloe. Each of our dates have gotten better. We make an incredible team—we have the same interests, and I’m crazy about you. We have chemistry, and you’ve seemed happy with me this past month. Did something happen?”

  “No.” She sighed. Yes, Owen had forced her to question her feelings for Drew, but she knew in her gut she would have figured that out on her own. Owen coming back had only expedited the process. “I don’t love you.”

  “Not yet, but we were getting there. Why would you want to run away before giving us a chance?”

  She gazed at him with sadness. God, had he really fallen for her? Or was he more disappointed in a missed opportunity to find a woman who fit his ideals? She hated the idea of hurting him, but it couldn’t go on anymore. Not when she knew the result. “I did give it a chance,” she said quietly. “My heart just isn’t for you. I think it’s best to stop seeing each other. I really hope you can understand and respect my decision. I never wanted to hurt you, Drew.”

  His gaze narrowed slightly. “Is it that guy you were with last night? The one you said was only business?”

  “Owen and I used to date years back, but it’s not the reason I’m breaking this off with you.”

  He seemed to process her words like an analytical spreadsheet. “I see. Did Owen say he wants you back?”

  Shit.

  Chloe owed him the truth, even though it was uncomfortable. “Yes. But I don’t know what will happen with us. There’s a lot of history I’m not sure I can get past. I’m being honest, Owen has nothing to do with my decision. But I do know it’s best we end it here. I hope we can be friends.”

  She held her breath and hoped he didn’t push.

  Drew shook his head and gave a halfhearted laugh. “Friends, huh? The biggest rejection of all, other than ‘it’s me, not you.’”

  She winced. “I didn’t want to hurt you.”

  The car pulled up to her apartment building. He let out a breath, then nodded. “I know. But listen, I think you’re confused right now with this guy coming back. He’s an asshole, Chloe. I would’ve never left or hurt you if you were mine.”

  Her heart ached. Drew was right, but she knew after speaking with Owen it was more complicated than black and white. She’d always believed it would be easy to walk away if she saw Owen again, but only after two short weeks, real feelings were involved. She needed more time to make a decision if Owen and she still had a future, but either way, she knew Drew was not meant for her.

  Drew touched her arm. “Take some time and space. I’ll be here if you change your mind.”

  Chloe climbed out of the car. With every step farther, she confirmed she’d made the right decision. No matter how hard her head wanted it to work out with Drew, her soul sensed they weren’t meant to be. She was okay with that.

  Her father?

  Maybe not so much. Especially after he learned she might need to explore a second chance with Owen. But Alyssa would help soothe his protective instincts, and Chloe knew how to take care of herself.

  She got to her place, changed into her pj’s, and finally had a dreamless, sleep-filled night.

  Chapter Nine

  The moment Owen saw the roses, he knew it was going to be a bad day.

  He’d been hopefu
l to hear from Chloe over the weekend, but she’d remained silent. After their evening together, he felt they’d made progress. When he looked into her eyes, he knew in his gut she still had strong feelings. The connection between them hadn’t been severed—only bent. He’d spent the weekend tying up loose ends on the case and reaching out to some old friends to grab a beer and catch up. The rest of the time he thought about Chloe and his next move.

  Until he arrived Monday morning to the flowers. And the card.

  This time, there was no envelope. Just a fancy notecard with one line written in elegant scrawl.

  Can’t Stop Thinking About Our Night Together.

  The punch in his gut was brutal. She’d seen him this weekend. Even worse, they could have spent the night together. The idea of the woman he loved being in another man’s arms made him nauseous. Frustration warred with a deep-set panic at the idea of losing her all over again. He’d googled everything about Drew Dinkle. He looked like fucking Captain America, which sucked, but even worse? He was rich, self-made, and owned a foundation that helped the animals. He was everything Chloe was meant for—all the things Owen had wanted to become when he was a nineteen-year-old kid, dreaming of spending his life with his first love.

  And he wondered again, was he enough?

  Vivian came into the office, interrupting his thoughts. “Morning, Owen. What’s the update on our case?”

  He forced a smile and re-focused. “We were assigned our court date six weeks from now. We’ll be ready. I have to head to the courthouse today. How do you feel?”

  “Much better, thanks. I received a few phone calls from the Sidewalk Angels event. You did a great job. Regina was really appreciative of your help.”

  “I’m glad. I’m reaching out to a few of my contacts who are versed on puppy mills. I told Regina to blow it up in the press.”

  Vivian gave a shark-like smile. “Excellent advice. You’re doing great—I wish I could steal you for Advocates for Animals full-time. You and Chloe make a deadly team.”