“Why do you think that?”
“Because I have a hard time asking for help. I have a hard time telling someone that I need something, and I think you like to help people.”
“I do.” India chuckled. “I have been told recently that I am a fixer.”
“I don’t need a fixer, India,” she said quietly.
“I know. I didn’t mean to suggest that you do. It’s just my first impulse to help when I can, and today, I felt like it was my fault.”
“It’s not, though. They are Colter’s actions.”
“I know. But he’s my brother, and it’s my stupid parking garage.”
“Did you really stop them from trying to buyChapter & Versebefore you even met me?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
“A few reasons. Most of them are business or PR-related, so it wasn’t as romantic as you might think it is.”
“Most of them?”
“Yes,” India told her. “I love New Orleans, too, Maisie. I love it for its history and culture, and I don’t want to see it disappear any more than you do.”
“I just needed to think today.”
“I know. I get it now.”
“But I should’ve invited you to dinner with us,” Maisie added.
“And I could’ve invited you to meet Stephania.”
“Maybe,” Maisie said.
“Maise, are we still…”
“Yes, if you–”
“Yes,” India interjected. “Yeah. I still want–”
“Then, yes.” Maisie laughed. “We’re still… whatever we were.”
“Can we identify that a little more?” India asked with a chuckle. “I… can I come over there, or you come over here. I want to see you.”
“I can come over there.”
“Pack a bag. Let’s just talk and fall asleep. I really want to hold you, Maisie.”
“I’d really, really love that,” Maisie replied, knowing just how true that statement was now.
CHAPTER 30
India opened her door and saw Maisie standing there, holding out a bottle of wine and a six-pack of beer.
“I thought we could compromise.”
India laughed and took the wine and beer from Maisie, who looked about as tired as India felt.
