My brain stutters.
“I’d love to meet for lunch or dinner next week,” he continues. “There’s something here, and if I am being honest... that isn't the only reason.”
He pauses like he’s about to say something else, but he doesn’t get the chance.
Caleb appears at the edge of the dance floor, holding my clutch in one hand.
His expression has shifted from composed to… intent.
“Lucy,” he says quietly. “Your phone has been going off.”
The world narrows instantly. Only two numbers can break through my do-not-disturb settings.
Mom.
Em.
My hands shake as I step toward him and reach for my clutch.
“Thank you,” I whisper. "Excuse me, I need to take this."
I don’t wait for the song to end. I step away from Graham, away from the floor, away from everything.
I call Emily.
She answers on the second ring.
“Lu,” she says, voice shaking. “It’s Mom. She’s in the hospital.”
My body goes still, like my soul just stepped out of it.
“What happened?” I ask, and my voice doesn’t sound like mine.
“She collapsed,” Em says quickly. “I left her in the kitchen for a few minutes to shower, and when I came out, she was on the floor, and I couldn't wake her up.”
“I’m coming,” I say, already moving. “I’m coming right now.”
I turn and almost collide with Caleb.
Graham is behind him.
They both followed.
I don’t have the energy to ask why.
“My moms in the hospital,” I say, breathless. “I have to go.”
Caleb’s gaze sharpens. “I’ll get Julian.”
The thought of waiting for Julian, of tracking him down while he’s with his parents, with his other women, with anyone who isn't me...
Something bitter rises in my throat.
“No,” I say quickly. Too quickly. “Don’t. He seems… busy.”
Caleb pauses, like he hears what I’m not saying.
Graham steps in, calm and firm. “You won’t get a taxi out front,” he says. “Not with this event. My driver can have the car ready in two minutes.”
