Page 77 of Cocky Choices: Zoe Cocker

A sarcastic laugh breaks from him. “Few people think like you do.”

“I don’t agree with that.”

“It’s true.”

After staring at Caleb for a second, I shrug, “It doesn’t matter what other people are doing or not doing. Wehaveto do what’s right, because it’s right. And maybe, by doing that, we inspire them by example.”

A grin of incredulity and admiration spreads on Caleb’s face. “You really are amazing.”

I frown, “I don’t think common human decency is amazing.”

He leans forward, earnest eyes locked with mine. “Thank you. I mean it, Zoe. Thank you. I’m going to do everything I can to make you very happy.”

Stephanie sets our salad and bruschetta down, their rich aroma successfully distracting me from emotional and mental turmoil. Before I know it, my fork is in my hand, piled high, and it dawns on me, did I even have lunch? Breakfast?

As he and I eat, I force myself to engage in small talk, asking about what business he wants to start. Caleb dives in, talking passionately about his ideas, and for a moment, business-owner to business-starter, I feel a connection. Something human, real and tangible. But in the back of my mind, Tom’s kiss haunts me. I am trying to hide it from myself that, while this meal is good, I would have preferred a Holy Guacamole burger at The Vortex. With a different man’s smile before me. A lopsided one that lights up not only the room but also me from the inside.

Instead…

I just feel…

Dark.

THIRTY-FIVE

Zoe

The Four Seasons event space is a spectacle of grandeur with silk curtains and tablecloths, an orchestra playing classical music, and five hundred suits and gowns highlighted by opulent chandeliers.

A podium and stage were installed on the far wall earlier this afternoons. We saw the electricians checking its cables as Amelia, Perry, and I placed floral arrangements on all the appropriate tables.

Tom didn’t show up at Florist Shop today. Amelia and Perry wanted to know why I didn’t call him to ask why he wasn’t there.

I know why.

Lexi told me, when she called me late last night checking to see how dinner went, that she’d told Tom I had made my choice. Of course he would avoid me now. And what could I do about it? Tell Caleb,I’m sorry but you can’t have your freedom from your father after all?

So it was just the three of us setting up and while they didn’t try to make me feel worse about my situation, Amelia and Perry couldn’t hide that their smiles were forced professionalism.

I left them to close up Florist Shop, and I went home to bury my face in Ralphie’s soft fur for some comfort. With noenthusiasm, I showered and dressed for the party. I don’t even remember driving here. Did I park in a red zone again? Who cares.

Come on!

Be strong.

I can do this.

Hold my head high.

Be a perfect future daughter-in-law.

The perfect future wife.

To a man who might fall in love.

But could I, with him?

Could I give my heart?

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