One last attempt!

The next few days are a total disaster. The children spend most of the time away from home because of the miserable mood. Maxwell hardly comes out of his office and Fran locks herself in her room all day, packing her stuff. She avoids everyone as best as she can.

One night, three days before Fran would leave, it was show time. The plan, Maxwell Niles and the kids had conducted, should be put into action. The children spend the night at their friends houses.

Maxwell, dressed in his best suit, steps into the dining room. Niles prepared a beautiful romantic dinner for two. He's just about to carry in the meal.

"Splendid Niles! Everything is perfect!"

"Thank you Sir! Then I would say the mission can begin! Good luck Sir!"

He goes into the kitchen and tells Fran over the intercom that dinner is ready. As he leaves the house, he sends a prayer to heaven all would turn out fine.

Maxwell waits impatiently with his heart pounding. That's when he hears her high heels. Fran steps into the room and looks dumbfounded at the table.

"Good evening Fran! We're alone tonight and I thought we'd have a nice dinner!"

Fran stares at him aghast.

"Do you think that's appropriate Mr. Sheffield?"

"Why not?! Come on and let us eat first. Niles has outdone himself again. We can talk later."

"I demand an explanation! Now!" Maxwell gets increasingly uncomfortable. The evening doesn't go as hoped.

"Fran, I don't want to let you go without one last attempt to make you understand how much you mean to me. You are the woman who showed me that life is beautiful, who made me laugh again, who connected me with my children. I know I played with your feelings and hesitated for a long time." He steps up to her and put his arms around her shoulders.

"Fran I love you!"

He looks deep into her eyes and there he sees the sparkle again. He sees her love in her eyes...

But then she breaks away from his embrace and suddenly there appears that coldness in her eyes again.

"You're thinking it's all pretty easy. A nice meal, a few touching words and bang I sinkt into your arms. But not with me! I have changed! I love Gideon and I'm not going to let you ruin my life!" Maxwell freezes. Who was this woman?

"I don't believe a word you say Fran! I've known you for five years. Your feelings can't change abruptly in a matter of days." He storms toward her, lifting her chin up with one hand, forcing her to look at him.

"Look at me Fran! Look me in the eyes and tell me straight into my face that you don't love me!" Fran hesitates. She seems to be fighting an inner battle. Then she glances up at him.

"I don't love you Mr. Sheffield!"

Tears shine in his eyes. He can't take his eyes off her. Refuse to believe it was true. Finally, he let go of her and screams out all his anger and despair.

"All right! Then go to your Mr. Right! I hope he can afford you the life you deserve."

Maxwell is almost out of the room, he turns once more toward her and mumbles softly.

"Never forget Fran! The kids and I will always love you!"

Then he marches away and a short time later Fran hears a door slam shut. She collapses on the floor crying. For a long time she sits there, letting her tears run. On her way to her room, she stops outside Maxwell's bedroom and leans against the door.

"Please you have to understand! I only want what's best for you!"