Chapter 19 - The Woman Who Wouldn’t ReturnNathaniel asked Clare to move back to New York.
Once.
She said no.
He never asked again.
Instead, Nathaniel rented a modest house outside Newport.
Clare discovered this when she drove past him unloading groceries.
She stopped.
“You live here?”
“Temporarily.”
“You bought a house?”
“Rented.”
“Why?”
Nathaniel shrugged.
“Rochester has competent management. Most of my work can be done remotely.”
Clare stared.
“You moved because of me.”
“I moved because I like Rhode Island.”
“You hate sailing.”
“I’m developing character.”
She laughed.
But later she became serious.
“I’m not returning to the old life.”
“I know.”
“No Park Avenue.”
“Fine.”
“No galas every weekend.”
“God, yes.”
“No private drivers following me.”
“Agreed.”
“No controlling my schedule.”
“Clare.”
“I mean it.”
Nathaniel stepped closer.
“I don't want the old life either.”
She searched his face.
“What do you want?”
“You.”
Her expression tightened.
He corrected himself.
“No.”
Nathaniel shook his head.
“I want a life where you can choose me without disappearing inside it.”
Clare stared.
That answer mattered.
More than roses.
May you like
More than diamonds.
More than every apology.
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