Page 84 of Just for Tonight

There is silence and I know I’ve said too much.

“Holy shit. You’re a romantic,” Mackenzie says finally, her amazement clear.

“I don’t have to wear a T-shirt declaring as much, do I?”

“No, but I’d never guess. You’re so prickly and pragmatic…”

“And I know that when you expect the very best, you’re highly likely to be disappointed. The chances of finding the kind of partnership that inspires me are just about non-existent. The chances of finding it and making it work over the long term are non-existent. Better to be self-reliant, than to be disappointed over and over and over again.”

Better to disappoint yourself than the one you love.

“But what if the perfect match slips through your fingers because of your strategy?”

“What if I never meet the perfect match? It wouldn’t be a surprise. Statistically, if you consider how many of us are crowded onto this planet, finding your soul mate has to be like looking for a needle in a haystack. Some of us aren’t going to succeed. Probably a lot of us will miss out on that brass ring, statistically speaking.”

“You’ll never find your soul mate if you stop looking.”

I exhale. “True. I’ll reconsider my strategy. Thanks.” She’s quiet again and I know she needs a nudge. “I find it hard to believe that you’re calling me out of the blue to learn more about my romantic expectations.”

“I had to talk to someone, someone who would understand. I thought of you.”

“I don’t understand.”

“I went to BC because my mom wanted to fix me up.”

I remember that. “And everyone is on board with her choice but you have doubts.”

“Yes.” I can hear her relief. “And I don’t know what to do.”

“Why? Isn’t it obvious? Isn’t he your Mr. Darcy? Rich, handsome and in need of a wife?”

“He might be Darcy but I’m not sure he should be mine.”

I refuse to explore my satisfaction in this confession. “Not measuring up?”

“That’s just it, he does. On paper, it looks like a perfect fit. That’s why I thought of your comment about, um, Chelsea.”

“You’ve got to listen to your instincts, Mackenzie.”

“But it’s easier for men. You can start a family whenever you want.” Her tone hardens. “As I have been reminded, my biological clock is ticking.”

I am surprised. “He did not say that.”

“He did.”

“Then he’s too stupid for you, Mackenzie. Or too socially inept.”

She laughs but her amusement fades too quickly. “He assumes we’re going to run his family’s vineyard in the Okanagan. Rhodes Vineyards isn’t even a consideration. He says their organization is bigger and more successful and can benefit from both our expertise.”

“But your heart is in your Opa’s endeavor.”

She breathes out slowly. “Yes. I have such plans.”

“The ice wine.”

“And more.”

I settle into my favourite chair. “Tell me.”