Chapter 60

Blake waited, hands in pockets until the car drove away before walking slowly back into the house. It was Thursday night, and he was at his parents’ house for dinner.

His father gave him a disapproving look when he walked back into the house. “So quick?”

“I was expecting you and Kelly to have some deep conversation alone.”

“Dad, mom,” Blake had called out and sat down facing his parents, who sat together on the double seater couch. “I would appreciate it if you don't interfere in who I go out with or eventually marry.” He looked into his parents’ faces, one after the other, with an expression that conveyed how serious he was. “I did it once and I don't want to do it again.”

“But we thought it was the best for you,” his mom retorted. “No one knew it would end the way it did.”

“You asked me to marry Stacy,” he moved to the edge of the couch. “Because of the family business, not because you considered she was good for me.” He choked down a lump of frustration in his throat. “I will not