Page 73 of Finding Redemption

I grit my teeth. “I do not think I deserve anything, including you.” Her face blanches. My pulse continues to race. “I’ve tried my best to make you understand.”

“Oh, I must’ve missed that while I was watching you leave with Candy after kissing me. You don’t get to do that, not with me.” Her words cut like a knife. I’m gutted, and she knows it’s by her hand.

“You’re right. I don’t deserve you.” I take the file in hand, grabbing my bag. “I’ll be in touch with revisions. I apologize for coming unannounced.”

I leave without hesitation. Clearly, I’m not wanted.

16

Ithrow a book at the door as it shuts behind him. “Asshole!” What the fuck happened? A knock at the door startles me. “Yes?”

Katie peeks in. “Are you all right?”

I wave her through. “Please shut the door behind you.”

She does as I ask, slipping into the seat in front of me. “That was intense.”

I place my face in my hands, resting my elbows on the desk. “I still have no clue what went wrong.”

“He likes you. You like him too.”

My head springs up, my mouth hanging open. “It isn’t enough. He’s a time bomb, and I’m the detonator.”

“How can you both come together to close this deal?” She brings up a good question.

“I’m not sure we can. What’s more, it’s not us. Honestly, Walker and DII continue to make top offers, but The Historical Society will not accept.” I throw my hands in the air.

“You’ll figure it out.” She stands. “And I’m thinking if he kissed you and walked away, you might want to ask why.”

“Did everyone hear?”

She grimaces. “Not everyone, but Doris bolted out the door to follow him.”

“Figures.” I wrinkle my nose.

“I think she’s outta luck.” She grins.

“Why’s that?”

“That man is sprung, girl.” She laughs before walking out.

“Sprung, huh? Doubt that.” So why am I grinning like a fool?

Work flies by the next day, which is good considering my stomach has a million knots in it with the thought of seeing Walker this evening. I sneak in early, praying to avoid him. I know he must still be angry after everything we said to each other yesterday.

I settle in, doing routine paperwork when a knock on the door startles me. “Yes?” Walker sticks his head in the door, and I begin sweating.

“Can I come in?” His eyes flicker around the room.

“Sure.”

“You’re not going to throw something at me, are you?”

I bite my lip on a snicker. I hold my hands up. “I make no promises.”

He steps in, closing the door behind him. “I come with a peace offering.” He smiles, laying a toy hammer on the desk.

My eyes bounce from it to him. “What the hell is that?”