Chapter 36

Heather stood on the balcony, watching as Jason sped away in his car. He was driving way too fast, as if putting distance between himself and the disdain he surely felt for her—a woman too pragmatic and too calculating for his liking.

Had he been about to take something out of his pocket just before leaving?

Heather wondered for a moment—could it have been a ring?

But it was too late for that. She had asked him twice already, even playfully, if he'd marry her.

Each time, he had failed to give her an answer. And honestly, even if he had said yes, she wasn't sure she would have agreed.

There were too many things to consider, too many calculations to make. The shortcut was right in front of her—why waste the energy and courage to take the long, winding road?

Missing this chance was almost inevitable.

Love wasn't a necessity, and between her and Jason, there was too much suspicion, too much hurt. Neither of them had the nerve to give themselves over fully anymore.

They coul