Page 60 of Just Breathe

“It’s not that.” She made a noise of disapproval, stopping me from continuing. “Ok fine, maybe it’s a little of that, but Madie, it’s only been nine months.”

She stayed quiet on the line, making my anxiety worse. This was going too fast. I was an idiot to think anything about the guys in that way.

“Stop it. I can hear your mind racing with all these negative things. I paused because I’m trying to figure out a way for you to realize you can’t live your life for other people. You need to live it for you and only you.” I didn’t want to believe her, but her voice was just full of truth. “Fuck everyone else and live for you, babe. You fucking deserve happiness, and no one has a right to judge you for that.”

Madie was so loving and accepting. She brought tears to my eyes, and I fucking loved her more than just a sister-in-law. I loved her like a sister.

“I love you,” I said, my voice cracking with emotion.

“I know, because what would you do without me?” She laughed, playing down her emotions, too. “I love you too.”

“Alright I’m about to pull up to pick up Callum. I’ll see you soon,” I made a kissing sound.

“Have a pleasant flight. I hope it’s comfy.” She made a kissing sound too and hung up.

I hope it’s comfy. That was weird, but it wouldn’t surprise me if she was talking about Callum. I pulled up to their house, shutting off the car walking to their door. I knocked, suddenly feeling really nervous about bringing Callum home with me. I know Madie just told me to tell everyone to go fuck themselves, but I don’t think she remembers who my family is.

“Good morning, beautiful.” Nathan opened the door in nothing but a pair of jeans.

“Good morning.” I smiled at him, keeping my eyes on his face, so I wouldn’t start blushing. It’s like he knew he was teasing me, and I was about to fail miserably. Tango saved me by rushing up to me and licking my hand to say hello. “Good morning, Tango. How are you doing, buddy?” I leaned down to pet him.

“Such a kiss ass.” Nathan rolled his eyes at Tango.

I laughed, getting up and walking into the house. “Don’t be jealous of the dog.” I pushed his shoulder playfully, trying to think of anything but his hands grabbing my ass and me shamelessly grinding against him.

“Oh Jane, you have no idea.” He kissed my cheek close to my mouth and sauntered off, showing me his great ass. I rolled my eyes and followed him. “Callum is almost ready. I had to make sure he looked presentable and go through his luggage. I think he would have just packed some jeans, and that’s it.”

I grinned because that’s exactly what I thought Callum would pack. We walked into the kitchen, the smell of coffee in the air. Aiden was leaning against the counter dressed for work, sipping on a cup of coffee, looking at some papers. Aiden was very sexy in his work attire. Come to think of it, I don’t think a paper bag could make him look bad.

“I’m gonna go get the princess,” Nathan said, leaving Aiden and me.

He looked at me with those green eyes, and I instantly felt at ease. “Morning.” He smiled as he took another sip.

“Morning. How’s it going?” I sat down at the island.

“Great, I’m looking over that bid you helped us with, and it’s amazing. We will definitely be busy with them, and I like that you also left it open-ended with the possibility of more work in the future.” He sat his coffee down and leaned over the counter towards me. “Thanks for this and everything else you’ve done for us. I just might have to hire you.”

“I like helping and designing things. It is so awesome. I love it more than I thought I would.” I blushed at his praise.

“Good, I might just need your help in the future.” He gave me a lopsided grin, making my heart flutter.

The sound of footsteps broke our stare, making me blush again. Jeez, what was up with my hormones? I turned around to see Callum come out of the hallway in jeans, boots, a tee with a blazer over it. Sweet baby Jesus, he looked damn good. His shirt had just the right amount of tightness across his chest, jeans that fit him well, and that jacket just made it even better.

“Morning,” I squeaked out like a dumbass.

Callum studied me for a second. “Morning.” His deep voice gave me goosebumps and, of course, made me blush. What was in the air this morning?

“Got everything you need?” I asked, not knowing what else to say. I felt like I was going on a date, but that date was all weekend long.

“I think so.” He looked down at his bag like he was mentally going through a list.

“He’s got everything.” Nathan came up behind Callum, squeezing one of his shoulders. “You guys are going to be late if you don’t leave.”

I looked at my watch and realize we had to go. “I was going to pick up breakfast, but if we get there on time, we should be able to pick something up at the airport.”

“That’s fine.” He nodded at me, taking his things and we all walked out the door. It was a beautiful summer morning. I knew I was going to miss it because it was hot as hell in Texas.

I unlocked the car, opening the trunk so Callum could put his things in. I turned around to see Aiden and Nathan looking at us, almost parent like, and I chuckled.

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