Chapter 29

"You and Louisa…" Paul couldn't even speak. His brain seemed to have stalled.

"Yes. It's nothing formal yet, but yes, I'm interested in her. And I won't give up. I know you want her too."

"If you want her, why did you ask me to join you tonight?" It didn't make sense to him.

"Because it would make her happy, Russell. And I'm willing to do anything to make her happy. Absolutely everything." He looked at Paul and Paul held his gaze.

"I want her happy, too. But I think you should know something: I'm not the only one you should be worried about. There is another rival."

Michael frowned.

"Who?" His voice came out cold.

"Benjamin Dankworth. In fact, he's the one she really likes. But he gave her a heartbreak, and now she's here. Louisa ended up coming here because Benjamin wasn't man enough to stand up for himself or for her. But I know she wants him. You and I can compete with each other, but Benjamin, if he decides to get back in the competiton, we don't stand a chance."