Page 48 of Fake Engaged to the Enemy

“They were going up to the city to grab some things for Katherina.”

Catherine nods, a thoughtful look on her face. “How much more work you got tonight?”

“I’m done.”

She grins. “Excellent! Let me go get on some fresh clothes, then we can sit outside a bit and talk. We’ve got a fully clouded sky and there’s a lovely breeze.”

“Sure,” I agree.

As she skips upstairs, I tidy up my things and then hurry to my truck. The overcast sky combined with a light breeze does make it nice out.

Using the truck to shield me from the house, I change out of my dirty work clothes to the fresh set I keep in the truck. Then I quickly wash my hands, arms, and face.

Catherine comes out of the house and settles on the front porch swing.

I head back up to join her, my heart skipping a beat.

She’s changed into casual jeans and a loose T-shirt. And she looks even more beautiful.

These feelings of mine… should I share them, or is it better to suffer in silence?

If anything, she’ll be upset if I admit the truth.

She didn’t come to Sandburrow just for me to complicate her life. Her life is already complicated enough.

“Donny released the photographs he took of us.” Catherine passes her phone to me.

The image is us kissing.Catherine Hart Tell-Allwas splashed over the image.

“What’s the feedback so far?” I ask cautiously.

“Mixed. But luckily it seems that most people are asking who is dating Crimson now that it’s clear I’m not,” she answers. She tucks her phone away.

I study her profile. “You know who it is, don’t you?”

“Yes.” Catherine pushes her toes against the smooth wood of the porch. A slightly regretful look crosses her face, but it’s gone shortly. “There’s a reason why hisparamourlooks so much like me.”

“Why?” I force back possibilities, not wanting to assume anything.

She bites her lip. “My mother.”

June? June is dating Crimson?

“Yeah, I had that same reaction.” She points at my face. “Stunned disbelief mixed with disgust. I caught them making out. So naturally, I quit.”

“Naturally?” I repeated.

Catherine nods, her expression hardening. “I spent far too much of my life begging for my mother’s attention. When she finally gave it to me, it was by dating my boss. Things would be far too complicated. Besides, if things ever go sour between her and Crimson…”

“I suppose it is natural not to want to be involved in that,” I agree.

“On the brighter side, another company finally got back to me about my resume,” she adds, brightening again. “I’ve got an interview set. Lead director of a social media account. I can’t tell you who I would be working with, though.”

“Of course,” I say, nodding.

I hope that my expression is excited. Because she’s sharing good news, and I should be excited.

If she notices anything, she must chalk it up to still being stunned over June and Crimson.

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