“We’re not even technically dating.”
“But Mata’s coming tonight so she can talk to her,” Solvi says. “Like she’s yourgirlfriend.”
I blink at Solvi. “She’s not my girlfriend.”
She gives me a look. The kind only a preteen can muster—the blend of skepticism and preemptive disappointment that saysyou’re lying to yourself and wasting my time.
“She’s notnotyour girlfriend,” she says.
I start to respond, but I don’t get the chance—because at that exact moment, the door chimes.
Whatever is going to happen tonight…it’s going to happen soon.
Shahar has arrived.
Lyn is on her way.
My family is already changing.
CHAPTER 26
LYN
What…whatin the everloving hell have I gotten myself into?
What do you wear to dinner with your Nyeri’i boss/situationship/…boyfriend? and his daughter and his baby-mama. Is that even a thing? I guess it is a thing, because I’m nowinthe thing and I’m supposed to be at dinner in an hour and?—
I squeeze my eyes shut.
And I still don’t know if I even like him or if it’s the translator. If it’s him…or if it’s the orgasms. The orgasms, which are exceptionally good, but maybe not even because of him at all.
I pull out my comm and dial Thalara, pacing back and forth and looking down at the various outfits I’ve picked out. They’re spread out on the bed, waiting: a very professional button-up and slacks, or a purple dress I’ve literally never worn, or a cute orange romper that feels more like a date night fit but—maybe would work if this is a date?
What am I doing?
Why am I doing this?
Am I really about to wreck my whole fucking career for some arguably very good turquoise cock?
“What…what did you just ask me?”
My eyes go wide. “Shit—hi, Tay.”
“Did you just ask if you’re about to—and I’m paraphrasing here—ruin your life for some good turquoise…um…”
“I didn’t realize I said it out loud,” I mutter. “I’m sorry. It’s just—I need help.”
I can hear the concern in her voice; I must sound worse than the situation actually is. “Are you okay?”
“Debatable,” I say, scraping my hand down my face. “I can’t figure out what to wear to meet Kaelion’s family.”
“You’re—” she pauses, stuttering. “You’re meeting his family? Weren’t you…yesterday you weren’t even sure?—”
“I’m aware of what was happening yesterday, but this is happening today,” I sigh. “He wants to do everything above board. Telling my committee, his daughter, hisex…God, this is a huge mistake, isn’t it?”
Thalara is quiet on the other end of the line for way too long.
“Thalara?” I venture.
