Page 9 of Where We Belong

“Why the fuck do you care, Benedict?” Cory snaps, icy anger lacing her tone. “We’re not family or friends. Stay out of my personal life.”

“We used to be friends,” I say softly.

“No. We used to hang out because you’re Heath’s best friend, but nothing else.”

Her words pierce through me like a thousand sharp needles. “Cory…” I trail off, unsure of what else to say.

So many unspoken thoughts swirl through me. I wish I could love you as you deserve. I wish I could be the man you need. I wish we could get past this pain between us.

“I’ll contact you when I’m home,” Cory states coolly. “If I don’t want to rebuild, I’ll sell and move on.”

Her words freeze my entire body. What can I say to make her work with me? I don’t have that right.

And actually, all I want to ask is for her to love me. I want her heart, her company, just her. If I can’t have any of those, I’d settle for just the gift of her company.

But the words stick in my throat, and she ends the call before I find my voice again. I’m left with nothing but regrets and doubts hanging heavy on my weary heart.

Chapter Four

Cory: I’ll buy you out.

Ben: Excuse me?

Cory: I thought about this whole thing and decided that it’s best if I buy your part of the old inn. I’m sure I can convince someone to help me with it if I decide to continue the project. Maybe Atzi can do it.

Ben: May I remind you that Atzi has three children, a chocolate factory, and Heath that occupy all her time.

Cory: Don’t forget her chocolate sculptures.

Ben: So you agree, she won’t have time for it.

Cory: There has to be someone else.

Ben: Me?

Cory: You’re a doctor, busy with your child and your own life.

Ben: I wouldn’t be asking to do this with you if I didn’t have time.

Cory: What’s your role in all this?

Ben: Currently, it’s Desperate Partner trying to keep the ball rolling.

Cory: I’m serious, Benedict.

Ben: Well, this project has several stages. The first is to rebuild, and I want full input on that one. Then, you’ll design the brand, and we’ll hire the employees together. After that, I’ll be as silent or verbal as you want me to be.

Cory: Selling it to me might be the best option.

Ben: And there you go trying to take the dream away from me.

Cory: What dream?

Ben: To own a hotel.

Cory: Since when did you have that dream?

Ben: When you told me everything that can be done with the inn. That’s why we bought it and then demolished part of it.

---