Page 118 of The Blackmail of Denise Randall

I’m outside holding a board in place while someone is above me drilling it into the frame. I feel eyes on me. I turn my head to see, but the sun is in my eyes, so I can’t make out many details of the person approaching, but I already know who it is. I’m not surprised to find Keaton back at Randall Construction. He’s been itching to get back to work, especially now that I’m here. He’s been in physical therapy with Trent. One phone call to my brother, and I’d know if Keaton was actually cleared to be working again. But knowing Keaton, it wouldn’t matter. If he wants to be here, he will be.

“I never thought I’d see the day that you’d be doing hard labor, Princess.”

I cock my head, “What’s the matter? Afraid you’ve been replaced? They hired someone that can do the job better.”

“I know I’m going to sure enjoy the view around here more.” Keaton smirks.

“Sloan!” My dad barks. “That’s still my little girl.”

“Sorry, Sir.” Keaton at least has the decency to look sheepish.

After our shift, we sit next to each other, and it reminds me of our time together after my graduation. That seems like ages ago.

“Do you think I’ll ever forgive myself for how I used to be?”

Keaton turns to me and thinks for a moment. Then he stands and guides me through the empty house.

“This house is going to go through a lot of changes. Walls being put up, then knocked down, then painted, then, maybe down the road, painted a different color, and then decorated who knows how many times. People are the same Denise. We’re going to go through some phases we don’t like. But with a good foundation, we can eventually get to where we want to be. Just like this house. It’s going to take time, hard work, and a little living in it—before it becomes a home. The houses that have gone through the most have character.”

“I guess I’m working on building my character.”

“I know you’re home for me.”

“You’re home for me, too.”

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