Page 38 of Baby Maker

Chapter Eight

Keegan

“There’s a Dr. Hogue here to see you.” Alice’s voice sounds through the intercom.

“Send him in.” I’m not surprised that Simon is here. In fact, I figured he would have dropped in a while ago. Either way, game face on.

Simon strolls in, and I gesture to a chair. No point in delaying the inevitable. “Come to give me the talk?”

“I’m trying to figure out what the hell is happening with you two.”

I clear my throat, downing half my water bottle. “What did Calli tell you?”

“Obviously not enough. Hence, why I’m here. What are you planning?”

“I’m not planning anything, except that she’s attending a wedding with me.”

“As your girlfriend.”

Okay, I wasn’t expecting Calliope to be that forthright with her friend. “It’s an arrangement. Nothing more.”

“Are you sure about that?” His icy blue eyes hold my gaze, daring me to lie about my intentions.

I bristle at his accusatory tone but talk myself down from snapping back a reply. Simon is Calliope’s best friend. Her only family on these shores. Add in my rather dubious reputation, and the man has a right to be concerned.

This leaves me with two choices: I can continue down my path of evasion, or I can spill my guts. Neither one is likely going to be pretty.

“Actually, I’m not sure of anything anymore.”

Simon’s eyes widen at my blunt admission. “Care to elaborate?”

“I have nothing but the best of intentions regarding your friend. I care about Calliope. More than I should. Way more than I should.”

Simon shifts in his seat, but some of the tension falls from his face. “I’m glad to hear that. I wasn’t sure if she was your newest conquest. I must admit that I damn near had it out with you at that medical function. I saw you two together on the patio.”

Fuck my life.

“But I talked myself down. Calliope has a right to see and sleep with whoever she chooses. She’s a grown woman. But her heart was smashed to bits, and I was left to collect the pieces.”

“You want to ensure I don’t smash it all over again. Am I close?”

“Damn straight. I need to know we’re on the same page, and you’re not going to screw with my friend. She’s vulnerable, no matter what line of crap she tells you. She’s not nearly as strong as you think.”

How can Simon and I see such different versions of the same woman? “That’s where you’re wrong. She’s remarkably resilient. Calliope went through the true definition of hell on earth. But she didn’t quit, even when quitting seemed the optimal choice. Now, she’s pushing forward, forging a new life for herself. I respect the hell out of that woman. Trust me, I’ll kill anyone who hurts her. You have my word.”

My statements hit their target, and Simon stands, extending his hand. “Thank you. I appreciate your candor. Take care of her on Long Island. I’m glad she’s getting back to her old self again. I think you play a big part in that, whether she admits it or not.”

He leaves my office, but his last statement hangs in the air. I’m not sure what this weekend holds for the two of us, but I guarantee one thing. If she brought that lacy lingerie, there’s not a chance in hell I’m not making use of it.

* * *

I glance over at Calliope,her hands knotted in her lap. She’s been tense as a board since we started the drive, and I worry she’s having second thoughts about the entire weekend. Maybe Simon had a pep talk with her, too.

Squeezing her hand, I offer a smile. “Relax. They’re going to love you.”

Calli releases a huffed sigh, her face breaking into a smile. Finally. “It’s so silly because this isn’t real, but I worry they won’t approve of me. Proof positive that I need to get out more.”

“Nothing like a family wedding to test the waters. If it helps, there will be tons of free alcohol.”

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