"Do you really think this is a good idea?" I asked, my voice coming out more hesitant than I intended.

Caleb had just strolled back into the living room, his easy smile charming as he carried two glasses of wine.

This whole night.. this whole event.. felt much too normal, way too natural for what was meant to be merely an arrangement.

“You’re overthinking it,” Caleb remarked, handing me the glass. His fingertips brushed mine, and even that brief touch sent a flood of warmth through me.

I was overthinking it, wasn’t I? But how could I not?

“Relax. It’s just us,” he added with a smirk, dropping onto the...