Page 32 of Chasing Forever

“If you’d rather not talk about your work, that’s fine. I was just making conversation.”

She suddenly realized how ridiculous she was being. “I had a long-term relationship, and yes, it provided some inspiration for my books. But I also get inspiration from other sources.”

Chase nodded like he knew it all along. “Had, as in past tense?”

Why is he so curious about this? “Yes. We broke up a few months ago.”

“Did you kill him off? In your book, I mean.”

“No, but I thought about it.”

He chuckled.

“Anyway, I don’t write murder mysteries, so I couldn’t kill him off.”

He looked like he was about to ask another question, but then the waitress came over with their bill.

Callie reached for her purse, but Chase was quicker, and he handed the waitress his credit card.

“I should pay since you’re driving,” she said even though she appreciated the gesture.

“I would have made the drive anyway.”

“But you wouldn’t have bought two breakfasts.”

“If you ever give up writing, you could be a lawyer. You sure argue like one.”

She laughed. “I’ll buy lunch.”

“Fine,” he said and followed her out of the restaurant.

For a while, they drove in silence, and Callie looked out the window at the passing scenery. Kauai was a vision in greens and blues, and it was raw in its beauty. It had an untamed ruggedness compared to other tropical places she’d been to, and she loved that about it. She also liked the absence of busy cities. Instead, there was a smattering of charming small towns that blended in with the natural surroundings.

For long stretches of the drive, there was virtually nothing but dense green growth crowding the highway, and they only passed a few cars. It struck her that she’d put her trust in this man who was a virtual stranger. She was thousands of miles from home, and nobody knew exactly where she was or who she was with. If she were a mystery author, this would be the setup for the perfect crime.

She studied his profile as he drove, thinking he wouldn’t notice. If only she could take out her notebook, then she’d be able to fill in a few more details about his appearance and demeanor. But that would be too obvious. Instead, she’d have to take mental notes and write them down later.

Chase looked over and caught her staring. “Hi,” he said with a grin.

“Sorry. I was just thinking.”

“About your book?”

She nodded.

“Come up with anything good?”

“I have some ideas.”

“If you want to run them by me, I’d be happy to listen.”

She eyed him curiously, wondering why he seemed so interested in her writing. “Thanks, but they’re just random thoughts at this point.”

“Well, if there’s any way I can help, just let me know. I’m right next door.”

The way he looked at her when he said it made her squirm. Suddenly it didn’t sound like he was talking about her book anymore…

Chapter 16