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I pause in the doorway and exhale.

“I don’t want repaying.” When she goes to open her mouth, I hold up a hand. “I didn’t do it to be repaid. I did it because I knew you needed clothes and a phone.” I stop, wanting to change the subject, not get into an argument. “I’m sorry about what I said last night. I shouldn’t have saidanything. I don’t want you to feel awkward while you’re living here.”

I watch the colour spread over her cheekbones and decide to change the subject.

“The fire department came by today. It looks like the fire was caused by an electrical fault. As the developer buying the building, I should have inspected it more thoroughly, especially when we found out businesses were still operating in it. Purchasing a few clothes is nothing.”

April crosses her arms over her chest and stares at me. “I know that’s not true,” she tells me quietly. “My tenancy doesn’t end until this week which means you don’t officially own the building yet. I also have copies of all the safety certificates, gas and electrics. None of this is your fault, Cal. This is all on my landlord.” She pauses, holding my gaze. “Thank you for the clothes and the phone. If I’m honest, I wasn’t sure how I was going to manage, so for me, that is notnothing. I just want you to know that.”

I stare at her for a second, before inclining my head. “I’ll go and get changed,” I say, when she doesn’t say anything else. The last thing I want is for April to feel indebted. Damn Samuel, why didn’t he just take the money I offered him for her.

I excuse myself before she can say anything else. April is correct, I purchased the property with vacant possession. The landlord is responsible, especially as completion hasn’t taken place yet. But April won’t see a penny from the landlord and as a company we won’t be pulling out of the sale despite the fire, although the details are now with the solicitors.

I change into jeans and a jumper and return to the kitchen. April has placed all the food on the table.

“This is a small thank you for all you’ve done over the past twenty-four hours and what you’re saying you’re goingto do for the community. You’re not what I thought, Caleb Frazer. When I’m wrong, I admit I’m wrong.”

“Thank you,” I say, my heart racing at her words. I turn my attention to the food and take a seat. “This looks amazing.”

April smiles, and my heart stops this time.

“Tuck in,” she says.

And we do.

CHAPTER 29

APRIL

It’s been several days since Caleb arranged for the personal shopper and I first cooked dinner for us.

On Friday, I accompany him to the office and meet the team. With the dance studio in ruins, there’s little or nothing I can add. What is more concerning is there’s now nowhere for the kids to go, while they rebuild, but that’s not Frazer Development's problem. I just pray they don’t get caught up in the very things I worked so hard to keep them away from.

By Friday night the tightness in my chest has all but disappeared and I’m finally feeling human again. The need to exercise overwhelming.

I head to Caleb’s private gym, Chloe having delivered all my new clothes and a selection of beautiful sportswear.

I step onto the running machine and hit start, only for nothing to happen. Lights flash on the wall.

I follow the cable. Nope all plugged in. My confusion grows. I step onto the cross-trainer. The same. Nothing. I stand and stare at the equipment, perplexed.

“April?”

I hear Caleb call my name.

“Here,” I say, coming out into the corridor and stepping into view.

His eyes skim my body, taking in my gym clothes, and my nipples harden under his scrutiny. I hate the impact this man’s presence has on my body. Thank goodness for padded bra tops. Thinking I was alone, I’m in a sports bra and leggings.

“There you are.” His voice sounds slightly husky.

Maybe I’m not the only one affected.

Why does that thought set butterflies off in my stomach?

“Here I am,” I say, putting my hands on my hips. As a dancer, I know I look good in leggings.

“What were you doing?” he asks.