I rake a hand through my hair, frustration simmering just beneath the surface.
— Heather has always had a talent for turning the smallest piece of information into a weapon.
— Remind me why you dated her again? Jane asks, a wry smile tugging at her lips—one that warms me more than it should.
— On paper, she was perfect, I admit.
— The perfect little McGregor wife, Jane adds with a grimace.
— Exactly, I agree. The problem is, what looks perfect on paper and what works in reality are two very different things. A lesson I’ve been learning lately.
I hold her gaze a beat longer, something unspoken passing between us. Maybe an acknowledgment that whatever this is between us has shifted into something more.
— So what do we do now? Jane asks. I don’t believe this surprise visit is a coincidence.
— It’s not, I confirm. I know Heather—she always has a very specific goal.
— To discredit me?
— Most likely. Or worse—to expose the truth about our marriage in front of my family. She’s always had a knack for turning situations to her advantage.
Jane crosses her arms, a new determination lighting her eyes.
— Then we don’t give her that chance. Not her, not anyone. We become the perfect couple. United. Unshakable.
— You mean we put on an Oscar-worthy performance?
— Exactly, I say. Heather is looking for cracks in our façade. Let’s not give her any.
A mischievous smile curves Jane’s lips.
— Oh, I love this plan. A live improv session, just for Lady Perfect. I can be very convincing when I want to be.
— I’m aware, I reply with a small smile.
A silence settles between us.
— Callum, we need to talk about what’s been happening these past few days. Between us, I mean.
My heartbeat quickens.
— You’re right, I admit. We’ll talk tonight.
She nods.
— Good, I say. Now then, is my wife ready to give the performance of your life?
Jane draws in a dramatic breath, straightening as if she’s stepping onto a stage.
— Absolutely, my husband. Get ready to be hopelessly in love with me for the next few hours.
Or maybe for the rest of my life?
I shake my head, trying to push the thought away.
CHAPTER 26
CALLUM
