chapter 17

Asher's mind was in a whirlwind of emotions and thoughts, a chaotic mess he hadn't anticipated sharing with a complete stranger. Maria, however, proved to be an incredibly approachable conversationalist. As he excused himself from the balcony earlier that evening, he had fully intended to exit the fundraising event, chalk it up as a night, and retreat to the comforts of solitude. Yet, an inexplicable force, a magnetic pull, drew him back. Parked in his car for a solid hour, he wrestled with his decision until the irresistible allure of the woman with his sister convinced him to reenter the venue.

Once he retook his seat, his sister, perceptive as ever, whispered, "I thought you left." He chose silence as his response, instead opting to inquire, "Where is Maria?" Confusion initially clouded his sister's countenance, but soon, recognition kindled a spark of understanding in her eyes. She gestured with a thumb toward the balcony and explained, "She's out there. I have to keep