Seduce Me Forever (Seduce Me #4) Read Free Page B

initial shock of what they told me, it certainly gave me even more to think about. The difference, I stated, was that my dad was, at his core, a one woman kind of guy. Yes, he made a terrible decision during a time of emotional upheaval in their relationship. It didn't excuse his actions, but it was out of character.
    Brandon, on the other hand, had made a practice of being with many women. His was a relapse to what he knew best. It was very much in character for him. Then my mother said something that gave me pause.
    “Perhaps, then, he needs more time to learn how to be with one woman. Assuming that he wants to do that. And, that it is with the right woman,” she said.
    It gave me pause and pissed me off a little.
    “So, are you suggesting that I should let him have a piece of Ass on the side until he gets it all out of his system?” 
    “No. What I am saying is that maybe one relapse does not predict a trend. Ashley, dear, you are a smart and together young woman. You need to look at the entire situation. Think with your head and follow your heart,” replied my mom.
    “And what do you think of Jeremy Wagner?” I asked my parents.
    They both told me how much they liked Jeremy. The Wagners were a wonderful family. They were happy when I dated him in high school. I didn't share that I had sex with Jeremy recently. But I did tell them that I was seeing him, as friends, while I was in L.A.
    “Well, my advice remains the same, dear,” said my mom. “Professionally, I don't think you can make a wrong decision. You have a fabulous career already. Adele would be more money, but, my goodness, you are already doing so well. I think you need to decide where your heart is. Ultimately, that is where you will find happiness.”
    The conversation was much deeper than I had expected, but it helped. My parents gave me a lot to think about. They confirmed that I needed to look at my situation from all angles. Ultimately, however, what did I want for myself?
    They ended our phone call with some very good news. My dad would be starting as a Math teacher of record on Monday. That meant he would be earning a salary and benefits while he completed his teacher certification program. After he was laid off he had a hard time finding anyone who would hire a middle manager in his 50s.
    He had a degree in Mathematics and there was a shortage of math teachers in Texas. He started a teacher certification program and had been interviewing with local school districts. I was thrilled. 
    My dad was great at explaining math. My sister and I never would have made it through our math classes without his help. He'd be a great teacher.
    “I won't be making what I did before, but the salary and benefits are certainly enough for us. We are going to be just fine,” said my dad.
    Then he choked up as he thanked me for my financial help. They were able to keep the house, their insurance, and send my younger sister off to college.
    I told them that I could continue to help, if need be. My parents told me that wouldn't be necessary. I decided that I would send them on a nice vacation. They couldn't turn that down. Not if it was already paid for.
    When I got off the phone with my parents I called Chelsea. She was excited to learn about my job offer. Even if it meant that I might move to Los Angeles.
    She could see the point my parents were making, but I think that Chelsea liked the idea of my exploring something with Jeremy. But, in the end, she wanted me to be happy. She'd support me no matter what my decision was.
    I finished my call with Chelsea and got dressed for dinner with Jeremy. I put on a nice pair of jeans and a casual blouse. We agreed that it would be casual and light. I had been refreshed by my swim. Maybe a fun evening with Jeremy was just what I needed.

Chapter Six
     
    Jeremy picked me up and we went for dinner at a small Italian restaurant near my hotel. He was wearing dark jeans and a polo shirt. He smelled of a pleasant cologne. I was