“I’m so sorry about the party. I was afraid to tell you. I didn’t plan it. I needed a place for my friend’s party when I failed to confirm my reservation at Le Pavillon and they gave the booking to another group. Then you called and asked me to go to your apartment to bring up the misdelivered books and I just stayed. I didn’t think you would find out. I know that sounds bad. I love my job. I love that you’ve given me the opportunity take on Lacey’s assistant editor position so early in my career. I want to be an assistant editor. I know I’ve got more to prove. I just hope I haven’t screwed up my chance to do that here at St. Clair Press.”

JoAnna leans back in her chair, her gaze unreadable. It reminds me of Barrett’s. I have to hold in a hiccup.

“You’re right. You have much more to prove here,” she says pursing her lips. “So don’t let this happen again.”

I slowly let out the breath that my lungs were holding onto.

“Definitely not.” I shake my head.

“Good.” She nods, and I stand.

I’m about to exit her office when she calls out.

“And Chloe? I know it’s between the two of you, but don’t give up on him. I know he loves you. He just needs time to figure out what’s important.”

I nod, biting my lip so I don’t cry. I want that to be true, but Barrett told me from the beginning that his business is the most important thing. I should have known that when it came down to it, he would make this choice. But it doesn’t make it hurt any less.

* * *

On my lunch break I call the Goldendoodle Foster Program to check on what to do about Baxter. I can’t keep him at my apartment and while I think Barrett was starting to tolerate him, I doubt he wants to keep him permanently.

The receptionist informs me that Jillian is not available, but she’s happy to look into Baxter’s file for information.

“It shows here that he’s been adopted.”

“When? To whom?” I ask.

“I’m not allowed to disclose that information.”

“It’s been one day,” I say, shocked that in my absence Barrett would get rid of Baxter that quickly.

“But here at the Goldendoodle Foster Program we’re always happy when our animals find their forever home.”

She’s right. I should be happy that Baxter has been adopted. For obvious reasons, I couldn’t keep him, but it breaks my heart that I didn’t get to say goodbye.

“Okay. Thanks.”

“You have a wonderful day now,” she says cheerily. The moment I end the call, I burst into tears.