Chapter 82

Ethan's earlier restraint and consideration seemed to give Josephine an unexpected sense of security. Coupled with the weight of her frustrations seeking release, she found herself blurting out an invitation before she had time to think it through. Gripping the steering wheel tightly, Ethan hesitated. "I—" Before he could finish, Josephine cut him off. "I was joking." Regret surged through her almost immediately. She had just finalized her divorce, and now she was inviting a single man—a dangerously attractive one—for a late-night drink. She couldn't shake the feeling that her decision was utterly reckless. Josephine bit her lip in frustration, chastising herself silently. Ethan relaxed slightly when he noticed her flushed cheeks. He smiled and said, "I know you were joking. No need to feel awkward." By the time they returned to the hotel in Crestwood, it was nearly 1:00 am. Josephine offered him an apologetic look. "Sorry to keep you out so late. You should head home and rest.