Page 51 of Perfect Order

“You’re talking outright deception,” I declare flatly.

“I’m saying your instincts were spot-on. And right now, I need them. Kane, Keene knows, Colby doesn’t. Sam knows, Cal is locked out.” He rounds out the list of partners. As the implications of his words penetrate, Caleb continues. “If it makes you feel better, tell her you’re responding because Becks is too busy falling in love.”

“There’s a small fault in your plan,” I inform him.

“There is?” He’s surprised.

“Becks is already in love.” I hang up on the sound of Caleb’s laughter, thinking about everything he just shared and what it means for my charge.

And for the woman I exchanged barely a few words with the other night that has to be hurting.

Ignoring Caleb’s edict, I pull out my own cell that’s cloned to Beckett’s. Before I can stop myself, I use my sat phone and type in the number and save it under “Lee.” Then I send her a brief message.Yesterday must have completely sucked. The firsts always do.

I shove my phone in my pocket and wait, knowing she’s likely running the number through Caleb, Keene, or possibly Sam. About thirty minutes later, I get a message back.You know, Kane, stalking’s really not a way to move ahead in your line of work.

My lips twitch.Am I going to be spanked by my boss?

I know they’re all married, but really? Is that such a punishment?she wonders.

I bark out a laugh.You’ve met them?

Some, yes. And stop trying to distract me. Why are you texting me?

It’s easy to bring up a picture of the woman I knew as Kylie Miles in my mind. There’s no doubt she’s incredibly beautiful, but in a short conversation with her and one with my boss, I’ve learned Leanne Miles has the heart and courage of a warrior.I could tell you it’s because my boss wants me to friend you as well as make sure Beckett’s protected while you’re on your quest.

She sends me an emoji with a scrunched-up face in return before typing,Is that what you plan on doing, Kane? Because right now I’m doing okay.

No you’re not.I hit Send. Then, I keep typing.I refuse to lie to you, Lee. I think you could use a friend.

There’s no response. Then,And why should I trust you? Because you’re telling me I should?

Smart lady.No, because your instincts have led you this far. I’ve been ordered to curtail your visibility to Beckett.

There’s no response.

I provoke her into doing so.Would your sister want you to live with her ghost?

HOW DARE YOU? You have no idea what it was like between us. If you don’t want me speaking with Beckett, that’s fine but you don’t get to question my actions. You don’t know me.

I type out a message.I know the pain that lives inside you, Lee.But when I hit Send, it comes back Undelivered.

And I stare down at the message in disbelief. “The little minx blocked me.” Then a smile breaks across my face. “Good for her.”

A few days after New Year’s, I receive a stilted message from Lee.If Beckett hasn’t received a call yet from Carys, he’s going to. I’d appreciate if you’d pass that along.

Uh-oh. I pull my principal’s cell out but don’t see any missed calls. I flick the ringer on and quickly respond back while I have the opportunity.Anything I should know?

I’m certain you’ll find out. Have a lovely day.

How are you?

Fine. Goodbye, Kane.

Wait. Please let’s talk, Lee.

Stop. Just stop.

Stop what?I stop moving to where I hear Beckett talking with the mother of his child on the lanai to hand over his phone. The dots move furiously.