Total pages in book: 58
Estimated words: 56256 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 281(@200wpm)___ 225(@250wpm)___ 188(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 56256 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 281(@200wpm)___ 225(@250wpm)___ 188(@300wpm)
“I need to get back to the office and make sure everything is in order so we can leave early.” He forces a grin before walking toward the door. He turns his head and says, “Thanks, Griff.”
“Hey, no thanks needed.”
He leaves the kitchen, and my mind wanders to what this dinner could be about. Is it a casual invitation, or is there something more behind it? The Atwood’s aren’t the type to hold formal interventions, but the timing and the unusual midweek gathering make me uneasy.
I push all the thoughts buzzing through my head aside and get to work preparing everything for my crew. They are perfectly capable of handling a night without me, so I’m not worried. Still, I want to ensure everything runs smoothly in my absence. I meticulously go through the prep list, double-checking every detail. From the ingredients for the weekend party to the tasks for each team member, I leave nothing to chance.
It also helps keep my mind occupied as time goes by. The rhythmic chopping of vegetables, the precise measuring of spices, and the organization of the kitchen are all distractions from the uncertainty of the evening ahead. As I work, my thoughts drift back to Anya, her smile, and the way she lights up a room. I wonder how she feels about seeing me tonight. Has she been avoiding me as deliberately as I’ve been avoiding her?
I set up the stations, ensuring everyone knows their responsibilities. My team is a well-oiled machine, each member skilled and reliable. I trust them implicitly, which makes it easier to step away, knowing they’ll handle any challenge that comes their way.
“All right, guys,” I call out as I gather my things. “I’m heading out for the evening. You’ve got everything you need, and I’m just a phone call away if anything comes up.”
They nod and smile, giving me reassuring thumbs-ups and quick waves. Their confidence boosts my own, and I feel a bit more at ease as I leave the kitchen.
Callum walks into the kitchen just as I’m unbuttoning my chef’s coat.
“Ready?” I ask him.
“Yeah,” he says, glancing at his phone.
He hops into his car, and I climb into my truck, my stomach in knots the entire time. I'm hoping it’s nothing serious, but preparing myself for the worst. I’ll need to be the rock for all the Atwoods; it’s the least I can do after everything they’ve done for me.
When we park in front of the Atwood family home, I stare at the big white house. It’s always been a beacon of light in my dark life, and tonight is no different. Its welcoming presence calms me a bit, but I can’t shake the anxiety gnawing at my insides.
We get out and meet on the brick walkway that leads to the front door. “It’s gonna be all right, Cal,” I say, slapping his back, trying to sound confident.
“Yeah,” he mutters, but his voice lacks conviction.
The front door opens before we even reach it, and Carol stands there with a huge smile on her face. “I’m so glad you could both make it,” she says warmly.
Callum doesn’t say anything, just wraps her in a tight hug. I need to look away so my emotions don’t get the better of me. Seeing their bond always tugs at my heartstrings, reminding me of what I missed out on growing up.
“Callum, what’s wrong, son?” Carol asks, her smile fading into a look of concern as she holds him.
I step inside behind them and see the worry on her face. “We’re here now, Mom. Just tell us,” Callum says, his voice steady but with an edge of urgency.
Her brows furrow as she looks between us, confusion evident. “Tell you what?”
“Carol, we’re here for you,” I add, my voice gentle yet firm, trying to convey that we’re ready for whatever news she has.
She looks puzzled for a moment, then laughs softly. “Oh, boys, there’s nothing wrong. You two are always so thoughtful. I invited you to dinner because Tripp is out and your father and I are going out for a fancy dinner, and I didn’t want Anya eating alone.”
Callum steps back, crossing his muscular arms over his chest. “You’re kidding, right? You didn’t actually pull us away from work because you want us to babysit?”
She hits him lightly with the kitchen towel she’s holding as she smiles. “Your sister doesn’t need to be babysat, silly boy. She needs company. She’s been a little down.” Her soft eyes slide to mine, and I feel myself stiffen. “I think she just needs a friend.”
My heart cracks in my chest, knowing I’m the reason she’s feeling this way. The guilt weighs heavily on me, each glance from Carol a reminder of the turmoil I’ve caused.
“Mom, what the hell? There’s nothing wrong with you? You aren’t dying? No one is dying?” Callum yells, his voice echoing through the hallway.