Chapter 6: Shadows, Sacrifice, and a Confession

His humility made the governor even happier, so he decided to hold a private dinner for top officials. Spouses weren’t invited, so I was left out.

I didn’t mind—after a month of hard work, I was happy to have a night off. I ordered takeout and settled in with a good book.

I stayed home, told April to bring me some comfort food. I just wanted to eat and get some sleep.

April brought me a tray of mac and cheese, the kind that sticks to your ribs and warms you from the inside out. I curled up on the couch, savoring every bite.

Good news: Owen got praised by the governor.

I smiled, proud of everything we’d accomplished. It felt good to be part of something bigger than myself.

Bad news: after all my hard work, I got nothing.

I sighed, realizing that sometimes, the people behind the scenes don’t get the recognition they deserve. Still, I wouldn’t trade the experience for anything.

Owen really is something. Even April noticed I’d lost weight, but I didn’t get any recognition.

She fussed over me, bringing extra snacks and insisting I take better care of myself. I rolled my eyes, but secretly appreciated her concern.

I was basically the assistant whose boss took all the credit. Story of my life.

April brought in some mac and cheese and saw my sour mood. “Miss, why the long face? Did you and the senator fight?”

Her voice was gentle, and I felt a wave of gratitude for her friendship.

Usually, I’d make up an excuse, but today she was right and I didn’t feel like lying.

I shook my head, forcing a smile. “Just tired, that’s all.”

“It’s nothing. I’m just tired. You can go.”

She hesitated, then nodded, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

If my goal was to not bother Owen and not annoy him… I should have succeeded by now.

Lately, I’d felt his attitude toward me change.

He was less distant, more open. I caught him smiling at me when he thought I wasn’t looking.

From his coldness at the wedding, to taking me to help with disaster relief, to listening to my ideas, I was sure he respected me now.

I felt a sense of pride, knowing I’d earned his trust. It was more than I’d ever expected.

My own view of him was changing, too.

I saw him as more than just a politician—he was a leader, a partner, and maybe, just maybe, something more.

On the trip, he protected me and listened to my suggestions. I admired his compassion and his ideals, and I was grateful he gave my amateur ideas a chance.

I replayed our conversations in my head, savoring every moment. I realized I was falling for him, and it scared me.

Owen, true to his name, had the heart of a leader and the spirit of a dreamer. How could you not admire him?

I smiled, remembering the way he’d stood up for the people, even when it wasn’t easy.

And I’ll admit, his looks had gotten under my skin. He stood tall and graceful—how could I not be moved?

I blushed, remembering the way his eyes crinkled when he smiled. I tried to shake off the feeling, but it lingered.

Turns out my own throwaway line about women’s feelings being mysterious had become my own problem. Go figure.

I never thought I’d fall for him. Now that I had, I was even more anxious about the future.

I hugged a pillow to my chest, wondering what would happen next. I wanted to believe in happy endings, but I knew better than to trust fairy tales.

Given his character, he probably needs a partner in his work. Not a romantic wife.

I wondered if I could be both—if I could find a way to support him without losing myself.

And since he’s a senator, there will always be other women around—maybe even a scandal or two.

The thought made my stomach churn, but I tried to push it aside. I reminded myself that trust was the foundation of any relationship.

If I didn’t care, it wouldn’t matter. But now that I did… the thought of him being with someone else hurt.

That’s why I was so conflicted. I wanted to win him over, but I didn’t expect to be won over myself.

I smiled ruefully, realizing I’d become the heroine of my own story, whether I liked it or not.

“Miss, the senator’s back!” April burst in, breathless.

Her eyes were wide. I could tell something was up.

I scolded her, “So what if he’s back? Why are you so worked up?”

I tried to sound annoyed, but my heart was racing. I wondered if he’d come to see me, or if it was just a coincidence.

But she grabbed my arm. “He didn’t go to his office—he came here!”

Her excitement was contagious, and I felt a flutter of hope in my chest.

My heart skipped. Something was up.

I stood up, smoothing my hair, trying to look casual. April grinned, giving me a thumbs-up as she slipped out of the room.

The dinner had just ended. If he came here, it couldn’t be to give me an award. What did he want?

I tried to calm my nerves, reminding myself that I was stronger than I thought.

Before I could think, Mason helped Owen into the room.

Owen looked tired, but there was a softness in his eyes that I hadn’t seen before.

Owen looked tipsy, slumping into a chair as soon as he sat down. Not his usual self.

He loosened his tie, running a hand through his hair. I could smell the faint trace of whiskey on his breath.

Mason said, “Mrs. Whitman, the senator had a few too many toasts tonight. Please take care of him.”

His voice was gentle, and I nodded, grateful for the chance to be alone with Owen.

I sighed. Some things have a way of finding you.

I rolled my eyes, but inside, I was a bundle of nerves.

I told April to make some black coffee and get a towel, planning to help him clean up.

She disappeared down the hall, her footsteps quick and light. I turned back to Owen, unsure of what to say.

Taking care of him was easy, but tonight I’d have to share a bed with him again.

I tried to act nonchalant, but my hands trembled as I poured the coffee.

Usually, Owen was all business. This was the first time I’d seen him relaxed, cheeks flushed from the wine.

He looked younger, almost boyish. I felt a wave of affection, stronger than I’d expected.

While waiting for the coffee, I sat beside him and studied his face.

His eyes were closed, lashes dark against his skin. I resisted the urge to reach out and touch his cheek.

He’d lost weight over the past month, his jaw more defined. I hadn’t noticed before—seeing him every day, you miss the changes.

I felt sorry for him, and a wave of tenderness washed over me.

I reached out, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. He stirred, but didn’t open his eyes.

Ugh, I’m hopeless.

I smiled, realizing I was hopelessly smitten.

As I watched, Owen opened his eyes. He looked at me and asked, “What are you doing?”

His voice was sleepy, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes.

I was about to pull my hand away, but he was faster.

He caught my hand, holding it gently. I felt my heart skip a beat.

He pulled me close.

The sudden intimacy made me dizzy. I could feel his breath on my cheek, warm and comforting.

The sudden contact made me nervous, my heart pounding.

I tried to steady my breathing, but it was no use. I was completely at his mercy.

Seeing my hand trapped, I just moved closer and whispered, “Owen, are you asleep?”

My voice was barely audible, but he didn’t answer. I wondered if he was pretending.

I asked a few times, but he didn’t answer, so I relaxed and got bolder. I leaned over and gave him a quick peck on the cheek.

My lips brushed his skin, and I felt a jolt of electricity. I pulled back, embarrassed by my own boldness.

“Owen, that’s my sign of affection.”

I whispered the words, hoping he wouldn’t laugh at me.

“Is that all?” Owen suddenly opened his eyes, startling me.

His gaze was intense, and I felt my cheeks flush.

Embarrassed, I snapped, “You weren’t drunk at all, were you?”

I tried to sound annoyed, but my voice was shaky.

“Who said I was drunk? I just had a lot to drink and felt dizzy.” He sat up and stretched. I quickly pulled my arm back.

His movements were smooth, unhurried. I watched, trying to read his expression.

Awkward, I looked away as he asked, “Did you just say that’s your sign of affection?”

I bit my lip, unsure of how to answer.

“Uh…”

Before I could answer, Owen leaned in.

His eyes were soft, and I felt my resolve crumble.

“I don’t think that’s enough.” His voice was rough.

The words sent a shiver down my spine. I held my breath, waiting to see what he’d do next.

Before I could react, he cupped the back of my head…

His touch was gentle, but insistent. I closed my eyes. Surrendered to the moment.

My mind went blank, and I was so nervous I barely breathed.

Time seemed to stand still. I felt his lips on mine, soft and warm. I melted into the kiss, forgetting everything else.

Finally, before I ran out of air, he let go and gently patted my head. “Harper, next time you confess, make it more sincere.”

His words were teasing, but there was a tenderness in his voice that made my heart flutter.

He drank the coffee, then went to bed. Just like that.

I watched him go, my heart pounding. I lay awake for hours, replaying the kiss in my mind.

But I was left wide awake, heart pounding. I didn’t fall asleep until dawn.

The sun was rising by the time I finally drifted off, a smile on my lips.

Owen, as usual, went to work early. I went to visit the governor’s wife with dark circles under my eyes.

She noticed immediately, raising an eyebrow but saying nothing. I tried to hide my exhaustion, but it was no use.

She was different today. After our greetings, she didn’t dismiss me—she had me sit.

After sipping her tea, she said, “The senator did great work up north. I hear you helped, too.”

Her praise was measured, but I could tell she meant it. I smiled, grateful for the recognition.

I replied, “He was the real leader. I just tagged along.”

I tried to sound humble, but inside, I was proud of everything we’d accomplished.

She nodded. “I hear you and the senator haven’t… well, started a family yet. That must be tough.”

Her words caught me off guard. I struggled to find the right response.

Not sure what she was getting at, I replied, “I’m grateful he works so hard for the state.”

I hoped my answer was diplomatic enough to avoid further questions.

“You’re a sensible girl. The senator’s home is still quiet—no children yet. Around here, family is everything. I’m planning a dinner next month to introduce him to some suitable women. What do you think?”

Her words were a thinly veiled threat, and I felt my stomach drop.

She was clearly testing me.

I kept my expression neutral. Refused to let her see how much her words stung.

I replied, “Of course. I’ll help however I can.”

I forced a smile, determined not to let her get the best of me.

“Good girl. It’s not easy.” She sighed and let me go.

Her words lingered in the air, but I refused to let them get to me.

That was the blow I needed to snap out of my daydreams.

I straightened my shoulders, determined to move forward no matter what.

On the way home, April tried to comfort me, “Miss, slow down. Don’t be upset.”

Her voice was gentle, but I could tell she was worried.

I was annoyed. “Who says I’m upset? April, do you have any good novels? Bring me one.”

I tried to sound casual, but my voice shook. I needed something—anything—to distract me from the pain.

This is the path I chose; I have to deal with the consequences. If someone leaves me, let them go; if they trouble my heart, I’ll just move on.

I repeated the words to myself, determined to believe them.

I can let go. I’ll treat it as a breakup and move forward.

I hugged the novel to my chest. Promised myself I’d be okay, no matter what happened.

When Owen came home, I was reading a paperback April found for me.

He paused in the doorway, watching me for a moment before sitting down beside me.

Before I could say anything, he sat down next to me. “I just talked to the governor’s wife. She mentioned something to you?”

His voice was casual, but I could sense the tension beneath the surface.

I replied, “Oh, she asked me to help pick out a new partner for you.”

I tried to sound nonchalant, but my heart was pounding.

He looked anxious. “What did you say?”

His eyes searched mine, and I felt a surge of hope.

I forced a smile. “It’s my job to help. Don’t worry, I’ll do my best.”

I tried to sound breezy, but my voice shook. I wondered if he could see through me.

Owen frowned, looking annoyed. “Why did you agree without talking to me?”

His tone was sharp, and I felt a pang of guilt.

“It’s my duty. How could I refuse?” I laughed. “Let me ask you—do you even like me?”

I held my breath, waiting for his answer.

He was silent, so I continued, “Since you don’t, what right do I have to refuse? Besides, starting a family is important. As your wife, I should help fill your life with good people.”

I tried to sound practical, but my heart ached with every word.

After my speech, Owen didn’t get mad but smiled slyly. “Harper, whenever you try to trick me, you get extra wordy.”

His words caught me off guard, and I felt my cheeks flush.

I was caught off guard. “No, I don’t.”

I tried to sound indignant, but he just laughed.

He didn’t argue, just mused, “You’re right. Starting a family is our duty. But since we haven’t, that’s on me. I should follow your example and try harder to add to the family.”

His words were teasing, but there was a seriousness in his eyes that made my heart race.

I was flustered, face burning. He pressed on, “Any advice for me?”

I could only stammer, “I… I don’t have any!”

I looked away, embarrassed by my own feelings.

Damn Owen, flirting when he doesn’t even like me. I hated that I couldn’t stay mad at his face.

I tried to glare at him, but he just smiled, making it impossible to hold a grudge.

I turned away. He grew serious. “I remember you said, ‘A man’s feelings can be explained, but a woman’s can’t.’ You were wrong. A man’s feelings can’t be explained either.”

His words were soft, but they hit me like a punch to the gut. I looked up, searching his face for the truth.

My heart pounded.

I felt a surge of hope, daring to believe that maybe—just maybe—he felt the same way.

Seeing me silent, Owen added, “Harper, you’re smart. You must know—I like you.”

His voice was gentle, but there was no mistaking the sincerity in his eyes. My heart soared.

His gentle, firm words soothed all my anxiety.

I felt a wave of relief, as if a weight had been lifted from my shoulders.

If I didn’t get it now, I’d be hopeless.

I laughed, tears prickling at the corners of my eyes. I reached for his hand, squeezing it tight.

I smiled. “I said on our wedding day that I liked you, too.”

My voice was soft, but I meant every word.

He poked my forehead. “If you mean those fake speeches, do you think I believe you?”

His touch was playful, and I grinned, swatting his hand away.

“Hmph, believe it or not.” So he always knew I was faking it. No wonder he never responded to my long speeches.

I rolled my eyes, but inside, I was giddy with happiness.

Seeing him lean in again, I remembered last night’s kiss and quickly covered his mouth. “Owen! Don’t—”

He looked surprised, then burst out laughing. “I just confessed, and you kill the mood.”

His laughter was infectious, and I couldn’t help but join in. It felt good to let go, to be myself around him.

It was the first time I’d seen him laugh like that, his eyes crinkling, not serious at all, and very attractive.

I memorized the moment, knowing I’d treasure it forever.

He stood and straightened his suit. “I have to get back to work. Let’s have dinner together tonight.”

His words were casual, but I could hear the promise in his voice.

When April heard, she was so happy she went to plan the menu.

She bustled around the kitchen, humming to herself as she prepared a feast fit for a king.

But I felt like a nervous wreck.

I paced the living room, wondering what to wear, what to say, how to act. My nerves were shot, but I couldn’t help but smile.

Before, it was always work dinners or family events. This was our first real dinner together.

I wanted everything to be perfect, but I knew better than to expect a fairy tale.

Is this what being lovesick feels like? I was starting to understand the original Harper.

I laughed at myself, realizing I’d become the heroine of my own story.

But he stood me up. Just like that.

Mason came to say Owen was called away by the governor and couldn’t make dinner. I shouldn’t wait up.

His words were apologetic, but I could tell he felt bad for me. I forced a smile, thanking him for letting me know.

Our senator is married to his job. Fine, there’s always tomorrow.

I tried to sound upbeat, but inside, I was crushed.

April was the most disappointed—she’d made enough food for a Thanksgiving feast. Poor girl.

She fussed over the leftovers, insisting I eat something. I picked at my food, barely tasting it.

Looking at the table, I laughed and cried. “April, are you trying to feed us for a week?”

She shrugged, her eyes shining with sympathy. I knew she meant well.

April just sighed, “Miss, it was your first dinner together! Why didn’t he come?”

Her words were gentle, but I could hear the frustration in her voice.

I didn’t explain, just kept my favorite dishes and told her to share the rest with the staff.

I watched as she packed up the leftovers, grateful for her kindness.

The moon was high and the night was cold. Slowly, my nerves settled.

Owen hadn’t come home, probably working late again.

I tried not to take it personally. I knew his work mattered, but I couldn’t help but wish he was here with me.

Fine. Whatever.

We’d built a real partnership during the disaster relief. Suddenly, it was turning into something more, and I didn’t know how to act.

I hugged my knees to my chest, wondering if I was brave enough to take the next step.