Chapter 9: A Decent Proposal
"After I left, I gave control of Bass Industries over to Lily. At first, when I did it, I thought maybe I'd find you and we'd run off together somewhere. But - of course - I didn't find you. I didn't know what to do at first. Eventually, Lily took pity on me and pretty much forced me to take a position in the finance division. It was interesting to really see how we make decisions about investments. Weighing risks is more complicated than I had ever imagined. It's been interesting, I report directly to the CFO; he's a brilliant guy. He absolutely hates that I never went to college though. I think he if he could get rid of me, he would, if only to demonstrate that you shouldn't be able to ride on the coat tails of family connections. I've been considering taking some time off and going to school. I know I told you once that a college degree was merely an accessory..." Chuck's lips twitched.
"I remember. You know I hated you a little for that." Blair finished off her scotch with an awkward gulp.
"I know. I hate admitting it, but I think I was wrong. I didn't have a particular school in mind."
"Grimwood is a college town. The school is tiny, but..."
Chuck nodded, a grin spreading onto his face. "I couldn't help but consider it when I realized you were here. They offer a degree in finance."
"We could start dating again," Blair murmured.
"I don't think so."
"What? You just said you were still in love with me." Blair countered. She bit her lip and considered how she must look to him in her off the rack clothes, and department store make up. "I realize I've changed, but seriously why would you come all the way here just to rebuff me."
Chuck laughed. "I think we should get married."
"You can't be serious. It's been almost two years since we've seen each other. And what about Jack? He still doesn't want us together."
"We get married in secret. He'll never know."
"Don't you think we should slow it down a bit?"
"No."
"How many drinks have you had tonight?"
"Hmmm." Chuck considered. "Six or seven."
Blair closed her eyed. "How about we revisit this conversation when you're sober?"
"Sobriety is overrated."
"I agree. But, I won't give you answer until we've both really considered this proposition."
Chuck grabbed Blair's wrist. "I've thought this through."
"No formal proposal - no ring," Blair reminded him.
"Of course that is a problem. But, I'm afraid you're just a dream, and if I don't ask now I'll wake up and you'll be gone. You're always gone when I wake up."
"Not this time. Let's get out of here." She grabbed his hands and pulled him to his feet. "Where are you staying?"
"Mmm. I have a room in a hotel a few blocks away. You would be shocked at the thread count of the sheets. The place should be condemned."
Blair laughed. "Let's go to your room. I'm exhausted."
"That's very forward."
"You just proposed!"
"Oh yes. Very true."
Blair nestled her head against Chuck's shoulder as they disappeared into the night and the twines of fate detangled a little bit.