Lara:Uh-huh... any reason why you want us to take our time? *wiggles eyebrows*
Keller:No, I just want you to have a nice time out.
Lara:Right, so this has nothing to do with the moans we heard last night?
Keller:No idea what you’re talking about.
Lara:Keller, we’re not stupid. How long has it been going on?
Keller:That was the second night.
Lara:Do you realize how risky this is?
Keller:Yes, but I can’t stay away. I can’t avoid her anymore, Lara. She makes me feel whole.
Lara:As long as you know what you’re doing. There are consequences. Who knows if King Theo will approve, and then what if she decides to walk away?
Keller:She won’t.
Lara:Brimar thinks differently.
Keller:Brimar doesn’t know her the way I do.
Lara:He’s worried about you.
Keller:I can tell, but trust me when I say, she’s not going anywhere. And neither am I.
Lara:Are you falling for her?
Keller:Yes.
Lara:Wow, that’s unexpected. You know I like her a lot, and I genuinely think she’d be a great match for you. She balances you out. But I’m not sure she’s ready for what’s to come. I don’t want you getting hurt.
Keller:I appreciate that, Lara, but I think you and I both know, I tried staying away. I fucking did, but the connection is too strong, and the need is far too electric. This is so much bigger than thinking she’s beautiful. I know her on a basic level, and she sees me to my core.
Lara:Okay, just be safe. We care about you.
Keller:I know, but don’t worry about me. Take care of yourselves. And, hey, I got a text from Henrik earlier. They think they found the leak.
Lara:Really? Who?
Keller:Someone within the executive staff. They’re going to speak of some false stories and see which one is outed. They’ll know soon.
Lara:Thank goodness. If we can clear that out by the time we get there, that would benefit Lilly’s welcoming.
Keller:Agreed. Okay, have fun. I’ll see you tonight.
“Who are you texting?” Lilly asks from the couch, where she’s still carving the first side of her fish. “You have this weird, pinched look on your face.”
“Lara,” I answer. “They’ll be returning later than planned.”
“Oh.” Lilly holds up her fish and shows it to me. “What do you think?”
Fuck, she’s so beautiful. That smile on her face, the pride beaming in her steely eyes, she’s breathtaking. And that fish... it’s actually halfway decent.
“I think you’re going to be better than me soon.”
“You sure know how to flatter a woman.” She sets the piece of wood and knife down and shakes out her hands. “I need a break.”
