“ it makes all the difference, believe it or not. i could never understand it — what happened between us. ” the words came with no malice, it came as quiet resignation. the years of toying with those last few weeks showing now. vulnerability coming out in a moment in front of the only person who ever understood his mind that intimately. “ i wanted you, ” more simplicity in a relationship that was anything but. “ yeah, i have career goals and aspirations but it was never about money or power for me. i don’t think it always was for you either. but pippa, why do you think i stayed in new york? i could have left and gone to los angeles and been fine career wise. probably better off, truthfully. i didn’t stay because of what your family could offer me. in fact, i’m an idiot for staying in a company where i have no future. i could have been ceo or a house husband for all i cared — as long as i was yours. ” a pause — eyes moved from wall that had captured his attention to her. “ what do you want, pippa? not your family, not your family obligations, not whatever you think i want – what do you want? ”