"Yes."
"Connor's party is in ten days."
"I'm aware."
"We should probably try to be professional until then."
I can't help but laugh."We've been trying that approach for weeks.How's it working so far?"
She props herself up on one elbow to look at me, her expression serious despite her tousled hair and swollen lips."What happens after the acquisition?When you go back to Scotland?"
The question hits harder than expected.
I haven't allowed myself to consider what comes after—too focused on the immediate challenges of MacTavish and the viral campaign.
"I don't know," I admit."I hadn't thought that far ahead."
“I—Of course.This is just..."
"Karina."I cup her face gently."That wasn't dismissal.It was honesty.I genuinely haven't considered what comes next because I've been too preoccupied with the present.With you."
"Oh."Her expression softens.
"But we will figure it out," I promise."After Connor's party.After the acquisition.We'll figure out what this is."
She settles back against my chest, silent for so long I think she might have fallen asleep.
Then, so quietly I almost miss it, she whispers:
"I think I might be falling for you."
The words send a jolt through me—equal parts terror and exhilaration.
Before I can respond, her breathing deepens, exhaustion finally claiming her.
I lie awake much longer, her confession echoing in my mind.
The irony doesn't escape me—that after years of carefully controlled isolation, I've allowed myself to become entangled with my brother's ex, of all people.
The very woman he betrayed, now in my arms.
What does that say about me?About my supposed loyalty to family?
The questions circle without resolution as Seattle's lights blink beyond the window.
Eventually, I give up on answers and simply hold her closer, allowing myself this temporary respite from the complications that await us in the morning.
Because one truth is becoming increasingly difficult to deny…
Whatever is happening between us matters more than I'm prepared to admit—even to myself.
22
SKIRTING AROUND THE TRUTH
KARINA
Ten days after my confession on Callum's yacht, a perfect Seattle August afternoon spreads outside my bedroom window.
