Chapter 11 Though Steven had worked for Zachary for years , his mysterious role as private chef kept him out of James's social circle . He greeted Sarah and Scarlett warmly before brushing past the others . " It's getting cold out here . Let me give you ladies a ride home . " Scarlett brightened immediately . Any chance to spite James and Charlotte was worth taking . " That's so sweet of you ! " she gushed . Sarah couldn't help but smile , knowing that easy - going Steven wouldn't have offered without Zachary's instructions . As she followed Scarlett into the car , her gaze lingered on the shadowy building , remembering Zachary's request . " Professor Wells tells me you're quite accomplished in psychology , " he had said . " I have a patient I'd like you to help with . " She'd refused immediately . Maybe if she hadn't married James , she would have become a successful therapist . But now , treating patients felt beyond her reach .. " I'm sorry , but I can't help . You should find someone more qualified . " 1 In the sunset light , he'd looked even more graceful , his smile unfazed by her rejection . " Take your time to consider it , " was all he'd said . After Sarah left in Steven's car , James's expression hardened , thrown by how different she seemed . The atmosphere in his car was tense until Charlotte leaned against him , her subtle perfume softening his mood . " James , my parents are coming tomorrow to discuss the wedding . Will you be free ? " Charlotte's beautiful face held such hope . James felt oddly empty . He'd spent three years waiting for Charlotte to become his wife . Now that the moment was here , he felt … nothing . 1 " James ? " Her gentle voice pulled him back . He took her hand . " Of course . I'll clear my schedule for your parents this week . " " They'll stay through the wedding . Could they use one of the empty houses at the mansion ? " " Of course . " The Garnetts were wealthy , though not quite at the Chancer's level . Since Charlotte had gone abroad , they'd sold their properties here . It wouldn't do to have his future in - laws staying in hotels . James called his assistant to arrange everything , never once considering Sarah's opinion . The next day , Sarah visited Professor Wells about Zachary's request . " When Zachary asked for recommendations , you were my 1/2 Chapter ' first choice , " he said warmly . " You had more potential than any of my students . Don't let these three years define your future . " Sarah's voice was rough when she finally spoke . " Professor , I haven't practiced in three years . Taking on a patient now would be irresponsible . " Transitioning from housewife back to her career would take time and courage . The professor didn't push . " Here's an idea - Adams University just lost their counselor . I've recommended you . You could try that , and since Zachary's sister studies there , you could observe her situation . " Sarah felt warmth spread through her chest . The professor had thought of everything . She couldn't refuse . T " Alright , I'll try . " Given his reputation , the university accepted his recommendation without hesitation . The new job meant moving closer to campus . Sarah's current apartment was too far , but she owned a house near the mansion complex . Perfect . T However , when she arrived , she found Charlotte's family having tea with her former mother - in - law in the garden . Mrs. Chancer clasped Charlotte's hands , beaming . " She's exactly what this family needs . Charlotte's worth a thousand Sarahs . When she marries James , we'll treasure her like gold . " " Charlotte's blessed to join your family , " Mrs. Garnett replied . " If not for those unfortunate misunderstandings years ago , she and James would never have been apart . We wouldn't have had this whole … situation . " Sarah watched the scene , her face blank but her eyes turning to ice .