Page 259

Mercer stops beneath the exterior light. He isn't carrying anything.

He checks his phone, then looks back at the building.

Before he moves, he slowly scans the street.

I stay still.

His gaze passes over my position. Keeps moving.

After several seconds, he walks toward his car.

Whatever he expected to find in that building tonight, he didn't find it.

I wait for him to leave.

Then look at my phone again.

Chaos: Also, I still want to know about Hot Lips.

I shake my head.

Me: Go to bed.

Her answer comes immediately.

Chaos: Bossy.

I start the truck.

Me: Bed.

Three dots.

Chaos: See? This is why I called you Daddy.

I nearly choke on my own spit.

Me: Goodnight, Chaos.

Chaos: Goodnight, Roman.

I stare at the heart. Something tightens in my chest.

I lock the phone and set it down.

Mercer is gone.

None of what I learned tonight has anything to do with Callie.

And I'm going to make damn sure it stays that way.

36

CALLIE

I didn’t have the chance to do my reconnaissance of Roman’s house.

Technically, it’s his fault.