Page 133 of Our Chaotic Love Affair

“I know. That’s what I told you.”

“You trusted your gut. Made the hard call. That took courage.” He paused. “I’m sorry I didn’t see it that way initially.”

This might have been the first time my father had apologized to me in my entire adult life.

“Thank you,” I said carefully.

“I’d like you to come back. To the company. But on your terms this time.”

“I appreciate that. But I’m still taking the sabbatical.”

His expression flickered. “Oh?”

“Family is incredibly important to me,” I said. “You know that. But I’ve lost sight of everything else that matters by prioritizing the business over all else. I need to find balance. Figure out who I am outside of being a Bancroft.”

Dad’s gaze drifted to the dance floor. To Cleo, spinning with Melody, both of them laughing.

“This is about her,” he said. Not a question.

“This is about me,” I corrected. “But yes, she’s part of it.”

He was quiet for a moment, swaying gently with Tiana. “She’s not what I expected for you.”

“I know.”

“But I can see why you’re enamored with her.” He looked at her again. “I see the way you look at her. The way you’ve changed since Rome. You’re lighter. More yourself.”

“Yeah,” I said. “I am.”

“Then take your time. Figure it out.” He looked at me. “I think I understand, son. Take all the time you need.”

He put his free hand on my shoulder. I felt something shift between us. Things weren’t fixed but maybe they were on the mend.

“Thank you,” I said.

“Go dance with your girl. I’ll watch this one.”

I hesitated. “Actually,” I said, “I’m right where I want to be. For now.”

Dad’s smile widened. “Good answer.”

We stood there together, watching the party. Tiana slept peacefully. I felt like maybe I was figuring out the meaning of life. A reason to get out of bed every morning that didn’t involve making money.

Kent came over a few minutes later to collect his daughter. “Thanks for babysitting.”

“Anytime.”

“Really?” Sylvie appeared beside her husband. “Because we could use a night out sometime.”

“Don’t push it,” I said, but I was smiling.

CHAPTER 42

CLEO

Iwas floating. Not because of the champagne. I’d only had two glasses, maybe three. Not because of the wedding, though watching Melody marry Austin had been everything I’d hoped it would be. Not because of the perfect beach setting or the music or the food or any of it.

Because of Cash.