Page 133 of Frozen Flames

“You have until Monday at least to think about it. Claire, you can’t professionally be there for the man you love.”

“Yes, but it’s also the worst time to leave him alone.”

“He’s not alone. He has his family.”

“What if I leave and I never see him again?”

She shakes her head. “If he gets better and doesn’t reach out or want to be with you, you can’t force it.” I’m about to object when she signals that she’s not done by laying her hand over mine. “You deserve someone who’s in love with you and only you.”

I know she’s referring to Gemma.

It’s not hard with the overlapping timelines of the relationships to expect that Harvey still loves and cares for Gemma.

We got together too soon.

If only I would’ve stayed away romantically. Then maybe I could’ve continued working for him until he got better. Henrik and his family might hate me too—leaving Harvey high and dry after everything he’s been through this week.

Once we’re all done eating, I help my mom with the dishes and lie on the couch afterward while she heads upstairs to read. That’s when I get a text from Harvey.

Harvey:Thanks for last night. I slept so well.

Claire:It’s no problem, Harv. I hope your appointment went well.

Harvey:It was okay.

I can’t help myself. I call him. I wanted to all day, but I knew he would be with his family, and I didn’t want to interfere.

“Claire,” he whispers.

“How are you feeling today?”

“I’m better,” he tells me. “I’m in bed now. My parents are hanging out with Henrik, watching a movie.”

“You must be pretty tired.”

“I am. I’m seriously drained.”

“I’m sure you are. It might take you a while to recover.”

“Yeah,” he says before he continues. “Last night was amazing. I mean it…thank you for staying with me.”

“It sure was.” I look up at the ceiling. “I had to leave early.”

“I know. I get it.” We’re both silent for a while. “Will you be back to work on Monday?”

I clear my throat. “I have to think about it, but, Harvey, I don’t think so.”

He chuckles. “I hate it, but I’ll keep hurting you until I fix my shit.”

“If you ever need anything—”

“I won’t be alone, Claire. My family won’t let me be.”

“Okay” is all I say.

“I’m going to miss you so much.”

“Harvey, me too.”

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