Page 89 of Dissolving Prejudice

I’d almost managed to forget we were building a house.

Moving toward the plans that were spread over our dining table, I studied them. They had already begun building, and if I wasn’t mistaken, now they were laying down the foundation and beginning framing.

“It’s coming along really well. They even started installing electrics and all,” Jordan mentioned, and I hummed because it wasn’t like I actually cared, as I’d already lost interest in that place. But since he was so enthusiastic about this project, who was I to ruin his excitement?

“Dylan said he can’t wait to see the house.”

This last comment caught my attention, and I turned to look at him. “You showed Dylan the plans?”

Rubbing the back of his head, he nodded. “Actually, before we came here, we stopped at the site, and I showed him around.”

The hell?

“He said you have good taste.”

Aww. I like compliments.

“He’s right.” I put my empty glass in the sink. “Anyway, I’m going to take a shower, so—”

“He also said that I probably owe you an apology for the way I talked to you.”

Apprehension kicked in, and I turned to face Jordan with my brows furrowed. “What are you talking about?”

Jordan moved to stand in front of me and placed his hands on my hips. “I’m talking about the way I treated you during our vacation… I was in the wrong, and I’m sorry.”

Fuck. Now you bring it up?

“You talked to Dylan about it?” I tried changing the subject.

“Well, I felt like shit over it, and he helped me understand.” Offering me a kind smile that pissed me off, and only because I didn’t deserve it, Jordan then pulled me into a tight hug. “I’m really sorry, babe, for being such an asshole.”

Feeling suffocated, I patted his back, hoping he’d be done soon. “It’s really okay. I don’t even think about it.” Yeah, ’cause I’m too busy thinking about Camilo.

“You know I love you more than anything, right?”

I do, and that’s a problem.

“Like, I’ll do anything for you. I mean it, Shay-Lee. You’re my everything, and I know I sound like a fool, but I’m just happy you’re mine.” He squeezed me tighter.

A lump of guilt formed in my throat, and I struggled to swallow it before I pulled back. Forcing a smile, I placed my hand on his strong jaw. “Stop with all this nonsense ’cause I’m not worth it. In fact, you have nothing to apologize for.” I looked between us and took a deep breath because maybe now was the time to confess. But once I glanced up and was met with his ocean-blue eyes, I was suddenly struck with rage. Pure anger, and for what? I had no idea what just took over me, but my body nearly vibrated with wrath.

“Babe?” he asked, snapping me back and making me realize I was staring at him without saying a word.

I gave him a half-hearted smile. “Sorry, I just remembered I’ve forgotten my laptop at my office.”

His brows pulled into a frown. “Can’t you pick it up tomorrow?”

Getting out of his hug, I was already reaching for my bag, which I’d left on the counter. “No. I’ve still got some work to do.”

“Want me to come with you?” he offered, and I was quick to say no.

“I think Vito’s still in the office, so it will probably take me time, and I know you have an early class tomorrow, so…”

Jordan pressed his lips together before he nodded. “Okay, just stay safe.” He kissed me goodbye and walked back to the couch.

I was already at the door when he spoke again.

“We’re still going to visit my mom next week for her birthday, right?” he asked out of nowhere.