Page 8 of The Broken Keys

I shake my head at myself. I’m sure Callum told him during their workout today. And I don’t blame him for sharing that with Bren. If I had seen Quinn today, I would’ve told her.

“Livianna, are you there?”

“Yes.”

“Oh, okay.” My dad pauses. “Can I ask you a personal question?”

“Sure.”

“Are you ready to jump back into something with Cash? I’m only asking because you had a tough time when you two broke up, and I don’t want to see you get hurt again.”

“Dad, I’m not back with Callum. We’re just talking and healing some of our old wounds.”

“Brendan said you spent the night. That doesn’t sound like?—”

“Dad, nothing happened. He lives in Laurel Canyon, and I didn’t want to drive all the way back to Malibu.”

“I know where he lives, Livianna. I sold him the house.”

Of course he did. And Bren and I definitely need to set some boundaries now that we’re both back in California.

“Look, Livianna. I’ve always liked Cash. He’s a good kid underneath all that impulsivity. If he’s maturing, then I don’t have a problem with you exploring your relationship with him.”

“Oh my God, Dad. Why are you saying this? I just told you?—”

“Sorry. It’s just… He reminds me of myself when I was younger. I have a soft spot for him, but you’re my priority. Say the word and I’ll get him to step off.”

“Oh, Jesus. I can’t do this right now.” I massage my temple with my fingertips. “Dad, I’ve got a headache, and I want to take a nap. Let’s talk about this another time.”

“You’re right, darling. You’re under a lot of pressure. Just know I have your back.”

“Thank you. I love you, and I’m hanging up now.”

“I love you, too. Have a good afternoon.”

“You too.” I click off as soon as I finish my sentence.

Back at the Malibu home, I lay the envelope full of legal papers down on the kitchen table where we used to have coffee every morning. Where Jaxon used to read me passages about fate, destiny, meditation, and other interests we had while I sketched.

I was planning a future that apparently only existed in my imagination. All of it is reduced to something that resembles a business deal gone bad.

It’s a knife to my throat. I want to erase the last day, but my phone buzzes with a text.

Callum:How are you feeling about tonight? Made reservations at Nobu, but I can cancel if you’re not up for it.

I stare at his message, then at the documents. He’s offering to celebrate the biggest victory of my career. And Jax is halfway around the world, absent except for generic motivational quotes that feel like he’s talking to a mentee.

Another message comes in.

Callum:If being out in public is too much, you can always come over here again, or I can go to you. No pressure. Just wanted you to know I’d love to see you.

My stomach spins, and I can’t deny that it feels good to have someone want to spend time with me. That’s all it takes to make up my mind.

Me:I’d enjoy celebrating with you. Nobu is perfect. It’s near where I’m staying.

Callum:I’ll pick you up at 7:00 sharp.

Shit!I don’t want Callum to come to Jax’s… Wait.