Chapter 9 - THE WOMAN WHO REFUSED TO BE BOUGHT
Bianca Ferraro invited Haven to lunch.
Haven almost refused.
Then she consulted Nadia.
They agreed that if Haven chose to attend, it should be in a public place with an interpreter available and no expectation of confidentiality.
Haven accepted.
Bianca arrived wearing cream silk and a diamond necklace.
She smiled as though nothing had happened.
“Miss Hart.”
Haven nodded.
An interpreter sat beside them.
Bianca folded her hands.
“I believe we've had a misunderstanding.”
Haven watched the interpretation.
Then signed:
You invited me to your home under false pretenses and encouraged people to laugh at my disability. What part was misunderstood?
Bianca's smile tightened.
“I was trying to introduce you to Philippe.”
By calling me simple?
Bianca looked away.
Haven continued:
You didn't know me. You didn't ask what I wanted. You treated me like a prop.
Bianca sighed.
“I've already offered compensation.”
Haven shook her head.
An apology isn't compensation. And compensation isn't an apology.
Bianca's expression hardened.
“You're very proud for someone in your position.”
Haven smiled sadly.
My position?
Bianca gestured vaguely.
“Your circumstances.”
Haven leaned forward.
I work hard. I pay my bills. I take care of people I love. I don't humiliate strangers for entertainment. I'm comfortable with my position.
Bianca stared.
For the first time, she seemed to realize Haven could not be intimidated by expensive clothing or inherited wealth.
Then Bianca said something unexpected.
“Philippe is dangerous.”
Haven's expression changed.
Bianca continued.
“You think he's kind because he signed a few pretty sentences?”
Haven watched the interpreter carefully.
I know Philippe has done things he regrets.
Bianca smiled.
“Then you know what kind of man he is.”
Haven shook her head.
I know what kind of choices he's making now.
Bianca's smile vanished.
Haven stood.
I came because I wanted to give you the chance to apologize honestly. You chose not to.
She picked up her handbag.
Goodbye, Mrs. Ferraro.
Bianca watched her leave.
May you like
For the first time in decades, she had encountered someone she could neither frighten nor purchase.
And she hated Haven Hart for it.
