Page 20 of The Broken Keys

“I’m sure they’re perfect.”

He takes a moment of silence. “Thanks.”

“For what?”

“For always believing in me.”

“You’re talented, Callum. There’s no denying that.” I turn back to my desk. “I’m going to need to let you go. I’m swamped and extremely unfocused.”

“Sure thing, but if you need anything, just call.”

“I will.”

“Let me know when I can bring that pie.”

“I said I’d text you later.”

“Promise.”

“Yes.”

We finally hang up, and I’m left clutching my phone, heart hammering because he’s not demanding. He’s just offering to be there for me. And that gentle patience is exactly what’s going to be my undoing.

The house is too quiet after Quinn leaves. I scroll through my phone until my thumb hovers over Callum’s last text. Before I can talk myself out of it, I type.

Me:Still want to come by?

His reply lands in seconds.

Callum:Send the address and I’ll be on my way. What kind of pie?

Me:I’ll drop a link to my house after this. How about ice cream instead?

Callum:Cookie dough still your favorite?

Me:You know it.

Callum:See you soon, beautiful.

A shiver runs through me. I set my phone down, stroll through the rooms one more time, smoothing throws that don’t need smoothing, rearranging candles on the quartz island like they matter. By the time the gate buzzes, my pulse is racing.

I shake out my hands as I wait for him behind the closed front door. It’s silly to feel like this is my first date with him, but I do. I peek out the peephole.

He strides up wearing a T-shirt, black jeans, and that careless grin, and suddenly the mansion doesn’t feel so empty. I open the door before he knocks.

“Welcome.” I show him inside.

“Pacific Palisades suits you.” His gaze sweeps the vaulted entry. “Feels more…you.”

“More me?” I arch a brow. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

“Nothing, just a feeling I got walking up.” His smile softens as he steps closer. “Show me around?”

We start in the great room, where glass doors fold back onto a deck that seems to float over the Pacific.

He lingers, fingers brushing the edge of a chair. “Your pops did good. Looks like he didn’t spare on the details.”

“His team is amazing. I’m so glad his designers took on the project and didn’t make me too involved.”