Begin Again - Jennifer Probst Page 0,7
owned a successful finance business and set up a foundation to give to various not-for-profits. She wondered if he’d ever been awkward when he was young, or unsure of his future. Or followed a girl around with his heart in his eyes, not caring if he got hurt because she was worth it.
Stop thinking about Owen.
Chloe reached for her wine glass and took a sip. It was an expensive, hearty red that blended with her eggplant dish, bringing out layers of blackberry and currant flavors. It had taken her a while to begin liking wine, but now she appreciated a good pour, finding it a solid subject to make a connection with strangers. It had served her well at many parties, able to smoothly transition into talking about her charity once a proper bond had formed.
Drew gave her an easy smile, his hand reaching across to tangle with hers. “I’m glad you were able to come out tonight,” he said. “I always termed myself a workaholic until I met you.”
She laughed and returned the pressure of his hand. His grip was solid, his hand practically dwarfing hers as if swallowing it whole. She reminded herself it was a feeling of safety rather than control. “Sorry, we got a new case to work on. Hoarding and abuse. The owner escaped prosecution so we’re deep into the civil suit. Have to make sure those animals stay safe, and they don’t find a new place and start over again.”
His face turned sympathetic. “That’s awful. I sped up your application for Advocates for Animals so hopefully a decision can be made sooner on the amount we can give.”
Unease curled in her stomach. “Drew, I don’t want to use our relationship for any unfair advantage. I told you that—I want a fair and equal shot at being one of your foundation picks.”
He grinned, flashing shiny white teeth. “Don’t worry, everything is above board. Now let’s switch to more pleasant subjects. I think you need a break from all the drama in your world. How’s your father?”
She shifted in her seat and tamped down the irritation at how easily he was able to disconnect from issues that were passionate for her. Still, he was a finance guy, and one who dedicated his money to many different causes. She couldn’t expect him to share all of her views on animal rescue. “Good. He’s been embroiled in words with the President again, but he knows how to smooth things over when needed. Alyssa helps balance him.”
“That’s what a good woman does. I consider my mother the reason for my success. She always supported me, knew how to push, and taught me the value of ethics in today’s world.”
“That’s so nice,” she murmured, liking the way he spoke of his mom. “What about your dad?”
He wrinkled his nose. “Not so much. They’re divorced, but I take good care of her. Give her anything she needs. It’s another reason I connected with you right away. Your close relationship with your dad showed me you have a real sense of family values. I need that in my life.”
A strange foreboding trickled through her. Odd, it was a high compliment, but she felt as if she was being interviewed for being his prospective wife. She forced a laugh. “Well, I’m grateful we’re good now, but we had some rocky times in the past. After losing my mom, it took me a while to find my way. I felt lost for a while, and he was so deep into his run for mayor, we fought a lot.”
“But you realized your mistake and healed the rift. That’s what families do. Forgive. Support each other without question. Isn’t that what you want in your life, Chloe? A partner to share it all?”
She blinked, startled by the intensity in his blue-gray eyes. Drew’s were like a misty storm. Owen’s reminded her of a calm sky that stretched for miles, a safe place to drift, to dream, to be completely herself.
God, what was wrong with her?
“Sure. Down the road, I guess.” She forced a smile. “I still have a lot I want to do before I make any long-term commitment.”
He cocked his head, tapping his finger against his wine glass. “Of course. But I’ve always believed with the right person, you can achieve anything without sacrifice.” He laughed, his eyes crinkling slightly at the corners. “Sorry, didn’t mean to get so serious so quick. I’m known to be a bit intense at times.”
She relaxed. “I can relate.”
“Good.