Chapter 37

Marissa bit her lip, then said, "Hey, aren't you supposed to be leaving for that business trip? It's late."

Julian knocked, then entered. "Mr. Vanderbt, it's time to go."

Dominick checked his watch. After a final reassuring glance at Linda, he left, Julian close behind. Before exiting, Julian exchanged a brief, knowing look with Marissa, a subtle nod, then followed Dominick.

Marissa watched them disappear around the corner. Returning to the room, she found Linda anxiously sitting up. "Dear, what's going on? You faked being sick to get Dominick here. Why?"

Marissa slumped into a chair, drained a glass of water, and confessed, "Dominick's ex-wife is back."

Linda's eyes widened. "Paisley? That stunning woman?"

"She hasn't contacted him," Marissa explained, "but his behavior around her is unsettling. Julian saw Dominick go into Paisley's house hours ago and hasn't left." She'd used her mother's illness as an excuse to get Dominick away.

Linda sighed. "Sweetie, maybe you should let it go. He clearly sees you as family, nothing more." She wished Marissa could have Dominick, but… "Sometimes, forcing things doesn't work."

Marissa shook her head stubbornly. "No, Mom, I can't give him up!" She didn't care about the outcome, only that she had him. And Paisley worried her.

Grayson remained at Paisley's. Paisley called Emery, instructing her not to visit for a few days. While Grayson wasn't Dominick, Emery's prejudice against him could cause problems. Paisley just wanted a peaceful few days. Once Dominick returned, Grayson would be sent home.

Paisley glanced at the clock. Dinner time. "Kids, I'm cooking. No fighting!" she called from the kitchen.

To her relief, the children were occupied. Grayson rolled his eyes at Serena, but she ignored him, engrossed in her toys.

Bored, Grayson spotted the attic stairs. By the time Serena looked up, he was halfway there. "Where's he going?" she wondered. "To Mom's space?" Frowning, she followed.