She didn’t believe him. “You know I...” she tried once more to speak but he held up his hand again.
“Mrs. Ryan, hear me out. In all honesty I can’t deny that access to Richie’s share of your new wealth offers interesting possibilities, but my life is comfortable enough as it is. Money is always attractive, but I don’t really need any more of yours. In short, Mrs. Ryan, marry Richie or don’t marry him. I simply do not care. Whatever you decide should and must be based on your desires, yours alone. Do you understand?”
She waited a moment, then looked up. “Thank you for your honesty, Mr. Stein.” She took a deep breath. “You make this easier for me. I can’t marry Richie. I simply cannot do it.” She spoke so softly he could hardly hear her. She looked down at the floor.
He heaved himself ou
