Page 6 of Double Take

He drops his hand to his side, leaving a chill in his wake. His gaze darts to the computer, and he frowns. “Linda Hardee isn’t the best attorney in town. Ethan Thomas is.”

My mouth drops open. Ethan Thomas? The toupee guy? “How’s that possible?”

He chuckles and leans against the edge of my desk. The red and white lights of the tree flash, making the skin on his forearm glow. “Don’t let that bad toupee fool you. He’s the best. I’ve lived here my entire life, and he’s been the top attorney in the area since he graduated from law school. Being color blind has nothing to do with his skills at the front of the courtroom. And the judges love him. He’s a big football fan and a golfer.”

“Well, thank you for the heads up. I’d already dismissed him based on appearances.” My face heats with humiliation. “Which is embarrassing. I strive to be a better person than that.”

“Don’t beat yourself up over it.” He angles one leg toward me while propping himself up with the other. “It’s understandable.” He crosses his arms over his chest. “We all have preconceived notions about people and professionals, and sometimes we’re wrong. Besides….” He winks. “Ethan likes being perceived as the underdog. So….” He meets my gaze and doesn’t let go. “What do you need an attorney for?”

“I’m in the process of getting a divorce and need an attorney.” The second the words are out of my mouth, I feel lighter. This is it. I’m finally taking control of my life. Now, to get an attorney and get the ball rolling. I wrinkle my nose. “My funds are limited. Do you think he’d take payment plans?”

“I’m sorry that you’re going through a divorce.” He shoves off the desk and drops his arms to his sides. “Actually, I’m not sorry. You don’t seem heartbroken about it, so I retract my apology to use in a better situation.” His eyes dance with humor. I like this guy. He’s charming and funny, but he still seems like the kind of man who’d go toe-to-toe with someone who disrespected him or someone he cares about.

“Thank you. I’m ready to get this over with.”

“How long have you been married?”

“Five years.” When his eyes widen, I smile. “We got married when I was 17.”

“I see. That’s young.”

“Yes, it–” The phone rings, saving me from having to spill more of my humiliating story. Sixteen-year-old girls aren’t supposed to get pregnant the month before their 17th birthday and end up married to a guy who had no intention of doing anything more than screwing me. “Dickerson Construction, how may I help you?”

“Rylee, it’s Katrina. I’m sorry I called you on your work phone. I wasn’t thinking. I see their billboards all over town, so it was the first one that came to mind.” My babysitter’s voice sounds frantic as she keeps speaking without taking a breath. “My mom was taken to the ER, and I can’t watch Sunny anymore today. I need to go check on her, and they won’t let visitors under 12 into the hospital. Besides, I’m worried about my mom, so my nervous energy would only upset her. Can you come and pick her up?”

What about tomorrow? The question weighs heavy on my mind but now’s not the time to ask. It’s not her fault I don’t know anyone in town.

“Of course. I’ll be there as soon as I can.” I set the phone down and smile weakly at Oliver. “I need to go and take care of something. Can you tell Axel I’ll….”

I’ll what? Come back tomorrow? What if she can’t watch her tomorrow? Do I leave my four-year-old daughter with another stranger? It took her several days to warm up to Katrina. So what? I never come back. Bring her with me?

I hang up and shove my chair backward, catching a hint of his woodsy cologne. If I had to guess, it’s sandalwood infused with citrus. “Tell Axel I’ll be back tomorrow.”

“Okay.” Oliver grasps my shoulder again. “Tell us if you need anything. We’d be happy to help.”

Lord. I yank my purse over my shoulder. I wish they could. I’d love a fairytale ending where Mario disappeared from our lives, gladly giving up custody of Sunny, and we’d live happily ever after–together. All four of us–Axel, Oliver, Sunny, and me.

What is wrong with you? Is sleep deprivation causing delusions? I harden my features as I walk past my desk. “Thank you. I appreciate the offer.”

Axel’s door swings open. “What’s going on? Where’re you going? Is everything okay?” The panicked expression on his face sends a chill along my spine.

“She says she’s okay. She received a phone call and needs to go.”

“Do you need anything?” Axel mimics Oliver’s expression from a few moments ago.

“Thank you. I appreciate your support. You’re great bosses.” I clutch my chest. These guys are dreamy. No wonder I can’t stop fantasizing about them. “I’ve never met anyone like the two of you.”

What I wouldn’t give to make them both mine. Don’t. I swallow hard and speed walk to the door. Brothers don’t share girls. Get your head out of your behind.

Oliver braces his arm in front of me, stopping me from opening the door. “We’re serious. If you need help, let us know.”

“Um….” I lick my lips. “Okay, I will.”

“Now, that’s a good girl.” Oliver winks and drops his hand to his side, giving me access to leave.

“Oliver….” Axel growls from behind me, causing the hairs on my forearms to stand as a shiver rocks my spine. “Let it go.”

“Yes, sir.” Oliver chuckles.

---