Page 51 of Tempted

“Go ahead and be frank, Clare. What’s on your mind?”

She licks her lips and stares down at her fingers, on her lap. “I believe that I owe you an apology.”

My neck cranes, but I take a seat, saying nothing.

“It’s really Rush that I owe an apology to, but I’m just too ashamed.”

I wait, saying nothing, terrified to break the spell.

“I lied, Malcolm. I lied about my relationship with Rush, and I lied about being pregnant.”

I think my stomach just fell out of place. As I live and breathe...

“It was all a hoax to try and get back at you and him for all...everything. I behaved like a child, and my da doesn’t know any of it. I don’t know how I thought I was going to get away with the pregnancy lie, but I figured that once I could scheme this company, and scheme you and Rush, that I wouldn’t have to lie anymore, that I could just say that I miscarried.”

I dare not look over at Dougall. From the corner of my eye, I can see that his arms are folded across his chest, but his expression is still unreadable. He’s either incredibly pissed off that she’s letting me off the hook, or he’s dancing in his boots, because we’re going to win. Win what, I don’t know, butcertainly a much better deal than what we faired to get just moments ago.

I decide to stop playing dumb. She knows that I know. And I have one question. “Rush said that he saw the pregnancy test.” I leave it at that. She knows what I’m alluding to.

“I used a fine tip marker.” She admits remorsefully.

Holy fuck. This chick is twisted. Way more than she was when I was with her. Inside, I’m dancing a jig of fucking glee. I figure looking at Dougall is safe, now that she’s laid all her cards out on the table.

Dougall is looking down at her, down his nose. “I have half a mind to tell your da, young lady.”

Her gaze goes to his. I swear to God she looks like she’s getting misty-eyed. “Oh, please don’t, Dougall. I promise you that I’m finished with the lies. There’s...too much at stake.”

“Why the sudden change of heart? Are you an overnight believer in karma?” I ask, feeling brave.

“Oh, someone very close to me warned me to change my ways.” She says, almost as a threat for us to do the same, like Judgment Day is forthcoming.

Dougall has heard enough. It’s almost like he can’t stand to listen any longer. He rises and addresses Clare. “Would you excuse us for a moment?”

“Aye, my da should be here any moment. Would you mind if I use the ladies’ room?”

“Certainly, lass. It’s just down the hall to your right.”

We both watch Clare rise and as soon as she’s out of earshot, Dougall rounds on me. “What did you do!” It’s more of an accusation than a question.

“Nothing, uncle. I swear.”

He begins to pace, walking with his fingers interlaced behind his back. “It’s like the lass has taken leave of her senses.”

Inside, I’m kissing Steph, all over her face, like I’m so happy, I’d do anything for her. I’ve never seen Dougall like this. He’s beside himself. This is a complete left turn for him.

“Aye. But at least now we don’t have to lose sleep over anything.”

“You’ve got her eating out of your fucking hands, lad.” He says, almost scathing, like he’d be happier if I was sweating. I could break out into song right now.

“And her da’s on the way, uncle. The ball is in our court.”

“Aye. I suppose you’re right.”

Oh my God! Can I get that in writing??? Inside my head these words are coming out as shrieks. God, I love Steph. I love her. What a woman! I can’t believe she pulled it off!

I’m feeling so brave. “If they sign, can I get Farley off my roster? Have I earned it yet?”

He sidesteps my question, coming completely from left field. “Just who was behind all this, hm? I know that she didn’t just pull this apology and confession out of her ass. Did you grow a brain and do something about this lass, Malcolm?”

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