“I’m sure you are exceptionally talented, Miss Burton, but?—”
“Halliday.”
His eyes soften at my correction. “Halliday… but that doesn’t change the fact that I’m not looking for love.”
I glance at our connected hands, and Sterling’s eyes follow mine before he gives my palm a gentle squeeze and finally lets go.
“I’ve hired her for a month. She’s got an apartment to stay in. You can’t say no, Dad. Please.”
He looks at Sinclair, then Monty. His brows pull together and heaviness seeps from him.
“You’ll be wasting your time,” he murmurs softly, turning to me. “I’m not looking for love. You could be helping someone who is.”
“Friendship, then?” Sinclair pleads. “She’s come all this way. You’ll at least try, won’t you? For me?”
His anguish wraps around my heart as it clouds his features. He’s got his walls up like a shield. It’s been almost two years since he lost his wife and son.
Maybe this is all too soon for him.
His attention flicks to Sullivan, and a look passes between them before he turns back to Sinclair.
“For you, Sweetheart?”
“Please.” She stands rooted to the spot; eyes wide and hands clasped together in a prayer sign.
Sterling sighs. “One month. But don’t be disappointed if?—”
Sinclair vibrates on the spot with a squeal. “Thank you!”
The same burst of energy hits me in the chest as Sterling turns to me. I force it deep down, slamming a lid over it and locking it up. My body must be out of whack from the flight and time difference. I’m feeling energy that’s similar to what I feel the first time I bring a client and their match together. But this is different. It’s making my head light and my heart race in a way that’s completely alien.
I actually feel a little nauseous.
It must be a strong sign of what’s coming. Sterling’s got an incredible connection to make with someone. I can sense it, feel it, taste it. I just need to find them.
“You’re here for a month?” he asks, his voice making the tips of my fingers tingle.
I take a deep breath, composing myself as my excitement builds. “Three weeks should be more than enough.” I smile confidently.
With an energy this strong, something big is imminent.
Maybe I won’t even need three.
“I’ve never not delivered for a client before. If you give me your trust, I’ll give you my everything,” I add.
Something flashes in his eyes, and he runs his hand over his jaw. He studies me for a beat, making my stomach flutter.
Say yes.
His pupils dilate as he looks into my eyes.
I hold my breath, waiting for him to let go. To give this a chance.
A charming smile settles on his face, and he holds out a hand, inviting us all to take a seat in the living area.
“Why don’t we all have a drink? And you can tell me how this will work.”
4
