Page 32 of Broken Boundaries

“Why not?”

“Well, besides the fact that it would be weird, he’s also my boss. Plus, do you really think he would want to hook up with a twenty-four-year-old with no life goals?”

“I think he would be very interested in hooking up with a hot twenty-four-year-old who is living only a few feet away from him right now.”

I laugh. “You’re insane.”

“Not the first time I’ve heard that. But for real, I think you should consider it. Make a move. Let him know you’re interested.”

“I’m not interested!”

“There is not a woman in Blue Haven that isn’t interested in Brooks Calloway.”

“Well, I’m not interested in sleeping with my ex-boyfriend’s dad. That feels illegal or something.”

She shakes her head. “Nah, not illegal. It’s called an upgrade rebound.”

“I can’t do that.” I can’t rebound with Zach’s dad… can I? No. No way. That’d be too weird. “And I’m not ready for that.”

She sighs. “Fine. Just remember that you’re always allowed to change your mind.”

“I know.”

She helps me unload the groceries. It’s not much, but it’s enough that I probably won’t have to go back to the store for a few weeks.

“Oh, good,” she says, pulling two items out of a bag. “You got the essentials: Wine and ice cream. It’s gonna be a good night!”

I was planning on spending the night by myself wallowing in self-pity, but it actually sounds a thousand times better to do it with my new friend.

CHAPTER 12

Brooks

“Hey, how’s Aspen?” Harper floats into my office and takes a seat across from me. It’s been two days since Aspen moved into the cabin next to mine, and honestly, I haven’t seen much of her. She’s been at work, but she’s mostly kept to herself.

“She seems alright.” I’ve been trying to give her space. I imagine it’s a little uncomfortable for her that she’s still tied to her ex-boyfriend’s dad. “Why? Have you heard something?”

“No. Just wanted to check on her. She seemed ok yesterday, but I was wondering if you’ve heard any breakup songs blasting from the cabin or anything.”

I chuckle. “Not that I’ve noticed.”

“That’s good. Have you checked on Zach?”

“Actually, he’s texted me every day since Aspen moved out. I don’t think he knows that she’s staying here, though. He’s just asked me if I’ve seen her and if she’s alright. I think he plans on getting her back.”

Harper winces. “Is that a good idea?”

“Probably not, but I’ve interfered enough. I’m not going to stop him from doing what he feels like he needs to do. Honestly, I’m just glad he’s talking to me at this point, even if it is just checking on someone else.”

“It’s so annoying that Lacey turned him against you,” she says. We’ve talked about this so many times. It frustrates the hell out of all of us, but I can’t change the past. The damage is done.

“Well, I was a shitty boyfriend, I guess.”

“You were sixteen! It’s ridiculous that she’s still holding a grudge, twenty years later. She’s moved on. Just because you didn’t want to be with her doesn’t mean you’re a shitty dad.”

I put my hands up in defense. “You don’t need to tell me.”

“I know, sorry. It always just makes me so mad.”