Page 65 of Hearts Don't Lie
“Hm. I told Arlo everything. He’s gone through the contract and has scheduled a time for us to talk with the owners. It’s ironclad. Contracts can only be terminated for three reasons. When they expire. If both parties, that would be me and the owners, mutually agree. Or for just cause. Since I just re-signed, expiration is off the table. We believe the best option is pursuing mutual agreement cloaked in the just cause since I’ve been absent and at this time refuse to return to my club. That would set up a series of steps to terminate my contract.”
“Hardin, what you’re talking about is beyond my comprehension. Would you be okay financially?”
“It’s all negotiable, but yes, I’m more than fine even if I incur the penalties being levied and have to forfeit the contract salary. I don’t live wild and beyond my means, despite what the tabloids report. I want to discuss them, my finances, with you.”
“I—”
“You more or less brought them up when Stowe and I went to Intrepid before fly-fishing.”
“Yes, but—”
“Hear me out, okay? Let’s focus on Stowe and then go from there.” He gave her a long look and raised his brows.
Mac pursed her lips, wholly uncomfortable, then nodded. Money was just something she simply didn’t discuss with anyone, other than Intrepid’s with Cori.
“I’d like to set up a trust for Stowe and any other kids we have.”
Any other kids we have.
“Mac?”
“Yes?”
“You seemed to drift off. We can talk later. I know you’ve got to be tired. I tasked Arlo with getting something drafted through my attorneys. Since he’s here, I might as well have him work. All this has been churning in my mind. Taking care of Stowe. And you.”
“You’re serious.”
“Babe, I’m not letting go of you or our son. Our future is us. Hopefully an expanded version of us.”
Mac’s body shook as she wept.
“Honey?”
“I… I… I don’t know what to say.”
“Maybe yes? Will you have me, Mac? I love you and I love our son. I can’t imagine going forward without you. Will you spend the rest of your life with me?”
