Page 12 of Code Name: Atticus

“Such as?”

“You know, kissing in public, extended physical contact, appearing genuinely passionate about each other.”

The implications of that statement sent heat racing through my system.

“We should probably practice that too,” I suggested. “So it looks authentic when it matters.”

Before she could respond, I moved one hand to the side of her face and leaned forward close enough that our lips almost connected. Then I waited. Her hands came up to frame my face, and I dove in. The kiss was different than this morning’s. More purposeful, less exploratory.

When we broke apart, we were both breathing harder.

“That should work,” I managed, winking.

BRENNA

While I was the one who’d instigated this fake-marriage undercover op, I felt as though the roles had reversed. Atticus was taking charge of that aspect, and frankly, I loved it. Pretend or not, his kiss felt real to me.

“I’m, um, thinking of taking a walk before dinner,” I said, shifting away from him.

“Sounds good. I’ll go along.” He looked in the direction of the windows. “It’s a beautiful day.”

I hadn’t anticipated company. In fact, I was hoping to have some time away from him so I could drum it into my own head that this “relationship” was make-believe. “Actually, instead of a walk, I think I’ll go for a run.”

“Even better.”

I sighed, louder than I’d intended to.

“Brenna,” he said, reaching for my arm. “You don’t have to be afraid of me.”

“I’m not,” I answered too quickly. “And you should get used to calling me Bronwyn.”

His hand lingered. “I’ve always loved that name. In fact, I’ve considered it for a daughter.”

A daughter? Considered names? I moved out of his reach. “Are you playing with me right now?”

His eyes scrunched. “Not at all.”

“You’ve actually thought about having kids?”

Atticus stood when I did. “It’s not so unusual, especially with everyone around me getting married and starting families.”

I felt my heart already breaking in two as I envisioned future gatherings where my brother would invite Atticus and his wife over for the holidays. Or he and Luke would take joint family vacations.

Always inviting me, of course. The lonely spinster sister.

“I run alone.” I practically sprinted over to the floating staircase, taking it two steps at a time, then slowing down when I almost missed one. When I reached the top, I picked up my pace, racing into the closet to change into my workout wear. In a minute flat, I was ready to leave. I even had my shoelaces tied. I was also out of breath. Not a good thing, considering my plan was to beat my personal record for a 5k. Maybe I’d go a full ten.

When I came out of the closet, Atticus was sitting on the edge of the bed.

“What’s going on?” he asked.

“Nervous energy to work off,” I responded without looking at him.

“Try again.” He stood and approached me.

Given my only options were to retreat into the closet or attempt scooting around him, I didn’t move.

“I need to make some calls,” I muttered.