Chapter 4

But I hadseen Lincoln’s face when he saw the callas, and I knew he wanted them. Besides, the worst that could happen was he hated them, I had to rearrange everything onsite, and refund the cost of the callas. With his brother’s conviction, I was almost sure that Lincoln wouldn’t make me do that. I nodded again, this time with conviction. Monroe’s huge grin showed through, splitting his face and crinkling his eyes. I couldn’t help but smile back.

“Hang on a sec.” I didn’t wait for a response, and all but jogged out of the room and to the fridge. I had to reach into the back, and I knew the callas I found there were past their prime—a little wilted and wrinkly—but they’d at least give Monroe a good idea of what they’d look like in the arrangements.

He was snapping pictures with his phone when I returned. I stood still and let him finish, then watched his strong fingers as he tapped at the screen. For just a moment, I imagined those fingers on my body and…