When the final buzzer sounds, we head to the car. When we are settled inside, Callum’s hand finds mine in the backseat, and he doesn’t let go.
Inside the penthouse, I don’t know what to expect. They are all so tense, and I want to put the whole incident behind me.
Callum stops when we all reach the living room and faces me. “I don’t want you alone tonight.”
He’s still feeling protective.
“We’re home. I’m safe.”
“I know you are.” His eyes lock on mine. “But I still don’t want you alone.”
Evan steps closer. “Neither do I.”
They’re offering comfort. Presence. Nothing more. But I don’t want comfort. I want to forget the feel of that man’s hand on my wrist. I want to replace it with something I choose. Something I control.
I want them. “Then stay with me.”
Callum nods. “That was my plan, Red.”
But they are not comprehending what I am implying. “Both of you. In my bed.”
Evan goes still. “Are you sure that’s what you want right now?”
“Yes.”
Callum hasn’t moved. “After what just happened?”
“Especially after what just happened.” I close the distance between us. “I didn’t choose that. I’m choosing this.”
He searches my face, making sure I mean it.
I reach for his hand. “I’m sure.”
Evan hasn’t taken his eyes off me. “What about Silas?”
I turn. Silas stands near the hallway, arms crossed.
“I want you there, too.”
He shakes his head. “No.”
Evan turns his attention to Silas. “You heard her. She’s choosing this. She’s choosing you.”
“I’m done lecturing them.” He points at Callum and Evan. “They’re adults. They can make their own decisions.”
“And you don’t want me?” I immediately regret my words, knowing I am setting myself up for rejection.
“I didn’t say that.” His face doesn’t change. “But I’m not the one who’s going to fuck this up. I’m not risking Ben. I’m not risking the company when this blows up in our faces.”
When this blows up.
Notif. When.
He really doesn’t believe there is a chance for our fake relationship to become something more.
Silas heads toward his office. “Have fun.”
He’s gone before I can respond. I stand there, staring at the empty hallway.
