My Love Until the Last Goodbye (Mary and Maximus) novel Chapter 1053

“Wow. I wasn’t expecting that,” James admitted honestly. “During the day, that guy seemed really into you… That’s why I didn’t approach you.”

“That man just wants me to stay the hell away from him!” Mary scoffed. Then, a thought crossed her mind. “Hey, wait… Are you from around here?”

“No, I’m just on vacation. Why?”

“Oh… Never mind. I just thought you might be a local,” she said, a little disappointed.

“Do you need something?”

“Should I be honest?” Mary hesitated.

Right now, she didn’t know anyone. This guy seemed kind and straightforward—maybe he knew of a cheap place where she could stay.

He didn’t seem like the rich type, which actually made her trust him more.

“Go ahead,” James said.

“I don’t have a place to stay, and I’m looking for something affordable. I don’t have much money left. Honestly, I’m thinking about going back to Valentia tomorrow,” Mary admitted, feeling defeated.

The place was beautiful. She had loved swimming in the crystal-clear waters. But she simply couldn’t afford to stay.

“Don’t worry! I know a place! If you’d like, you can stay at my house.”

“What?” Mary asked, surprised.

“Yeah. I’m here on vacation with some friends—guys and girls. We’re staying at my parents’ house, so my home is your home. It’s big, and there’s plenty of space for you to stay.

"If you’re unsure, you can ask around—the house is decent, and there are other girls there, too. By the way, how old are you?”

“Twenty.”

“Huh… I’m twenty-three. How did you end up married to an older guy?” James asked, curious.

“Well… It’s a long story. But basically, I guess I was just stupid.”

“He doesn’t love me. He never will. That much is clear. But here I am—married. And, well… I don’t think it’s going great, do you?”

“There’s always divorce! You wouldn’t be the first or the last to get divorced, especially at your age. Plus, you’re such a beautiful girl… That man doesn’t know how to appreciate your youth and beauty. Think about it!” James said, and his words stuck in Mary’s mind.

But she had married for love. She did want her marriage to work. She still believed that one day, Maximus would finally see her, that he would leave Alexia and choose her instead.

-

“We’re here!” James said. “This is my house—well, my parents’ house. Come on in. If you want, you can stay here tonight. Tomorrow, you’ll have more time to figure out what to do.

You can stay as long as you need. I’ll be heading back to the U.S. next weekend, but in the meantime, you’re welcome to stay.”

“Thank you,” was all Mary could say.

She wasn’t entirely comfortable with the situation, but it was better than sleeping on the street.

Inside, the house was warm and welcoming. It wasn’t luxurious, but it had a cozy charm to it.

Then again, Santorini was charming no matter where you were—beautiful yet nostalgic all at once.