Page 42

My smile has a life of its own. It’s not what I planned, but after years of planning and strategizing every decision, I’m happy to go with the flow. Especially when the flow feels so good.Andhas an expiration date.

His kitchen is the last major space that we’ll need contractors for. The rest is just decorating, and he’s let me help him with all of it. He’s supposed to be on a leave of absence from work, but his time is almost up.

Despite the marvels of modern technology, he can’t run his business from here. Time zone differences, poor connections, and all the other issues that come with trying to work remotely have been hampers on his productivity.

No, when it’s done, he’ll put the house on the market and go back home.

I have this fantasy that he’ll come back from time to time. But the prospect of him staying and finding out who I am and what I’ve done is unthinkable. His leaving is the best ending I can hope for.

“Oh, speaking of,Architectural Digesthas been in touch about the house.”

“About what? They want to buy it?”

He casts me a sidelong glance. “No, babe, they want to photograph it.”

“How do they know about the house?”

“They’ve been following my renovation account. Apparently this house has a history as interesting as its appearance. They want to write a feature on it and me.”

“Wow, how great.”

“There’ll be a photoshoot, and I’d love for you to join us.”

“Uh, me? Why?”

“Are you kidding? You’ve decorated the entire house. I only had the bones of it together when we met.”

“I don’t want to be in a magazine. Especially not one highlighting where I live. The house isn’t behind a gate, anyone can walk up to it. I work in criminal law. It could be dangerous.” My voice grows more vehement with every sentence.

He holds his hands up. “I hadn’t even thought of that. Forgetthatidea. I’ll just give you credit.”

I shake my head. “No. I don’t want to be mentioned by name. The public eye isn’t for me.”

“Understood. You don’t need to say another word. Thank you for being so up front about it. I’m glad you know you can be with me.”

I sag with relief and smile at him. “I’m so glad you understand. So thankyou, Break.”

He scoffs. “What does that mean?”

“It was what my dad used to call anything that was exceptional. I don’t know why, but it stuck and I use it, too.”

His expression is dubious, but he smiles. “Exceptional, huh? I guess I can deal with that.”

“It’s a great nickname.”

He cuts me a sidelong look. “You’rereallygoing to call me that?”

“Yes.Forever.” I rub my hands together in wicked glee.

He smirks. “Then I’m going call you Beat.”

“What does that mean?”

“That you’re the only music I want to dance to.”

“Break and Beat.” I test the names out.

“I think they’re perfect together,” he says.