Chapter 44

Contains spoilers

Overview

Sarah Morgan hosts Alejandro for a private dinner at her home while her daughter is away. Their conversation about his new "waste management" job turns flirtatious, and Alejandro hints he accepted the work because her foundation’s program depends on him. The evening culminates in a passionate kiss, signaling a deepening relationship and possible entanglement between Sarah and Alejandro.

Summary

Sarah Morgan prepares an elegant dinner for Alejandro at her home, noting he sits in the place once reserved for her estranged husband Bob. Alejandro brings wildflowers and wine, and Sarah remarks on his effort and appearance. She almost canceled, but decided she needed a distraction.

During dinner, Alejandro eats slowly and asks about Sarah’s daughter, learning Summer is staying at a friend’s house, making them alone. Sarah senses Alejandro’s interest but is uncertain of her own intentions. She steers the conversation toward his job search.

Alejandro says he found temporary work in "waste management" that pays well, though he seems embarrassed. Sarah reassures him there is nothing wrong with the job. They share quiet, charged moments as they eat.

Alejandro admits he almost did not take the job because he was unsure it was right for him. When Sarah refills his wine, he says that, in a way, she changed his mind.

He explains that Sarah’s foundation program does not work unless he does, and claims he is the only one who can do it. Sarah teases him about his confidence, and their banter escalates the attraction.

Alejandro touches Sarah’s face and hair and pulls her into a kiss, which Sarah reciprocates, suggesting both had anticipated this moment since the dinner began.

Who Appears

  • Sarah Morgan
    attorney and narrator; hosts Alejandro for dinner, discusses her foundation, and initiates a romantic escalation.
  • Alejandro
    Sarah’s romantic interest; claims a new temporary job in "waste management," says Sarah influenced his decision because her foundation depends on him, and kisses her.
  • Summer Morgan
    Sarah’s daughter; referenced as staying at a friend’s house and absent from the scene.
  • Bob Morgan
    Sarah’s estranged husband; referenced as the prior occupant of the dining table seat.
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