He shakes his head. “No. It was Claire Abernathy, who is now Claire Murphy.”
My eyes widen. “His mother is also Cleo’s mother?”
“Exactly. They are half-siblings.”
“Do you think he knows this?”
“I would bet my life on it. I think that’s why he took the job. I don’t think he’s there to harm her. I think he’s there to protect her. Now that I know, I can look back at their past interactions and see it. He’s caring toward her. You worried if it was because he wanted more with her, but it’s familial not romantic.”
Now that I know it, I can see it, he’s right. Callum cares about her, but he never strayed from appropriate behavior.
“Fuck, he’s her brother then. I guess that means we have to trust him.”
“My thoughts too. I think he would die for her.”
“That makes him our ally. I think I should make a call.”
He nods, taking his leave.
Once the door closes, I pull up the phone, dialing his number.
“Hello, Haruaki,” Callum answers.
“I think we have some things to discuss.”
“Of course. Cleo is ready for her date with you.”
“She’s always ready for me, but that’s not what I mean.”
“What do you mean, then?”
“I know who you really are Callum. Does Cleo know you’re her brother?”
Callum curses. “How did you find that out?”
“I have people. Tell me. Does she know?”
“No. Not yet. I haven’t told her. I don’t want to stress her out anymore. I know she cares for me as a friend right now but imagine if she knew I was her brother. Her concern would grow tenfold. I got shit going on here that’s dangerous. I don’t want her to worry any more than necessary.”
My respect for him grows. “Fine. I won’t tell her for now, but she deserves to know.”
“I’ll tell her when this is all done.”
“I’m holding you to that. I need a couple days, but then we can plan that date.”
“Call me when you’re ready,” he says, hanging up the phone.
Tossing my phone onto my desk, I run a hand down my face.
I have a bad feeling a lot of shit is about to go down. I just hope my princess isn’t caught in the crossfire.
Today has been boringas hell. I asked Callum to set up my next date with Kai, but he was busy today.
I was tempted to message or call him, but I didn’t want to come off as clingy.
Why is this so hard?
He’s had his mouth and hands on me.
