I swat her arse as I pop the lid on the boot with my fob. “As if I’d ever say no. You have me wrapped around your little finger, and you know it.”
47
ASTRID
“This place is amazing.” I twirl around in the center of Callan’s main living space, soaking it all in. The small hallway opens into a large space with a well-appointed kitchen tucked into the corner. The rest of the space is a living room and dining area with a wide floor-to-ceiling window at the back, allowing lots of light in and offering a perfect view of the park outside with the Thames and the Riverside Arena in the distance. Callan pointed them out a few seconds ago.
“I’m glad you like it,” he says, dragging my zipper down and helping me out of my jacket.
“Does it get the official interior designer seal of approval?” Dara teases, taking my jacket from his brother.
“It does. I like the clean lines with key pieces of furniture and minimalist styling. The design is clever, and they have maximized the use of this space.” My eyes skim over the room. An expensive cream leather sectional occupies prime real estate in the living area, perfectly positioned to view the large wall-mounted TV. The rustic oak coffee table matches the eight-seater dining table at the other side of the space. It’s facing the window on one side and a narrow hallway on the other.I’m guessing that’s where the bedrooms and bathrooms are. “Though I think a little injection of color would make it more homey. A different rug. Some new wall hangings. A few throws and cushions would really lift the design.”
Callan’s arms encircle my waist, and he grins at me. “You can make whatever changes you like once you move in.”
“You’ve decided to stay here?” The club provided this apartment for the first three months, and they’re giving Callan an accommodation allowance every month from next month. He had looked at a few other places, but he was also talking to the management company here about staying on.
“Yeah, they gave me a sweet deal and a one-year rental agreement. It makes sense to stay here so I’m not uprooted again.”
“I thought you’d want a bigger place,” Gwen says, leaning against the window.
“This is plenty big for my needs.” Callan twirls a strand of my hair.
“But you have the money to splash out on a penthouse. Don’t you want that?” She arches a brow, eyeing him like he’s acting crazy.
“I want to be smart with my money. Spend it wisely. Invest some.”
“I think that’s a good plan,” I agree.
“I think that’s smart too.” Gwen pushes off the window. “But you should treat yourself. You’ve worked really hard to get here, and you should enjoy it.”
“I fully intend to, and I have splurged on a new car. I don’t need anything else.”
A muscle works in Callan’s jaw, and I can tell Gwen is already getting on his nerves. This does not bode well for the week. “Can you show us to the bedrooms? I want to freshen up before weeat.” I lace my fingers in his. We haven’t stopped touching, and I can tell he’s missed me as much as I’ve missed him.
“Don’t take too long, or the food’ll go cold,” Dara calls out as Callan swipes up my case and my bag. “I’ll set the table.”
Gwen drags her mammoth case along the hardwood floors as Callan leads us down the hallway. The guest bedroom Gwen is staying in is plush and comfortable. She’ll be sharing the main bathroom with Dara for the time he’s here.
“Alone at last,” Callan says, slamming the door behind us when we step into the master bedroom. His lips are upon mine in an instant, and we cling to one another as we kiss. Callan is an incredible kisser, and I have missed kissing him.
“No fucking, lovebirds!” Gwen calls out, thumping the door with her fist. “Eat first.”
Callan’s brow rests against mine as we break our lip-lock. His eyes are closed, and I can tell he’s counting to ten in his head.
“I know she’s a lot at times, but she’s excited to be here.” I cup his cheek, relishing the familiar feel of his stubble against my palm. “Thank you for letting her come. It means a lot to me.”
“I’m not unsympathetic to what she’s been through, but she’syourfriend, not mine. I don’t mind her being here this time, but it can’t become a regular thing.”
“It won’t be.” I peck his lips. “I promise.”
“So, this is what it’s like to be rich, famous, and privileged,” Gwen says, settling into a comfortable leather chair beside me in the corporate box with a glass of champagne in hand. Before I could say a word, she informed me she’s not turning down free bubbly, and one or two glasses won’t hurt. I really hope she behaves and doesn’t do anything to embarrass Callan.
“I’ve been here a few times, and I still can’t get used to it,” Dara says, arriving with his plate laden down with food. “All my mates are begging me for tickets.”
“I thought it’d be bigger.”
“Is that your new mantra?” I tease.
