Page 26 of Theirs to Tempt: The Marriage Claim

“Sophie, this whole thing is messed up.”

Before I can reply, the outer door opens, and Elena goes to greet my first client of the day.

After taking another sip of the much-needed caffeine, I shake Mr. Hargrove’s hand.

Within a minute, I find my rhythm, and I’m able to focus enough that he doesn’t seem to notice anything is wrong.

We end up running a little long, and I’m relieved when I barely have a break between clients.

Then unfortunately my one after that cancels.

Elena pops her head into my office to say she’s going to lunch and to ask if I want anything.

Even though food is the last thing on my mind, I ask her to bring me a sandwich.

Then, alone in the office, an unexpected break in my schedule and total silence, a fresh wave of nerves surges through me. Unable to help myself, I grab my phone.

There’s no call or message from my dad.

Frustrated, I pace the length of my office, not even stopping to look out at the view of downtown.

I’m caught up in my own drama.

How is it possible that I’ve been building my life while Lucian and Caleb have been moving pieces around as if it’s a chess board and I’m their helpless pawn.

I stop and blow out a breath.

I’m no one’s pawn.

Striding to my desk, I snatch up my phone and call my dad.

Shocked, I blink when he actually answers. Instead of exchanging pleasantries, I tell him about last night’s call from the clinic.

“Oh, Sophie…” His voice catches. “I’m so sorry.”

My heart races, and I exhale so that I don’t scream.

I hate myself for even having this thought… “What about selling the house?”

It might not cover everything, but at least it would be a start while we figure things out.

He hesitates so long that I know what he’s going to say before I hear the words. “I already mortgaged it.”

“You…?” I squeeze my eyes shut.

“I’m sorry that I have to ask you⁠—”

“Ask me?” Hysteria bubbles in my voice. “Ask me? You’re giving me no choice.”

“If there was any other way to save your mom…” He chokes on a sob.

My strong, competent, loving father cries for the first time in my life. “Please, Sophie.”

Shaking, unable to make any promises, I have to end the call.

And then I cry, tears burning, then streaming down my cheeks.

How can I be totally responsible for saving my mom?