Page 74 of Choosing Us

As his wife would say … crap on a cracker.

Two hours later, I’m pulling my Jeep into a parking spot a block down from the local coffee shop.

It’s strange—I’m not used to being anxious when it comes to speaking with Walker. He is my direct supervising agent, and we’ve also been friends for a long time.

But I guess the time was up when he watched me get into Ryan’s SUV yesterday.

He’s calling the meeting, but it’s probably overdue. It’s time to rip the Band-Aid off about me dating his brother-in-law. But I’ve never been the type of person that got into trouble in school, or even at home. Other than perpetually disappointing my parents for not caring more about their social lives.

But I care about what Walker thinks of me—a lot. And I think it’s in part because I know he genuinely cares about me as well. I never want to disappoint him or let him down.

I don’t think Ryan and me dating are either of those things, but the potential is there.

And also, probably why I’ve been an absolute coward about this conversation. If he hadn’t pushed it, how long could I have held out?

We’ll never know, because he’s making me face it head-on. It’s good for me to be pushed out of my comfort zone, but I’m not ready to admit that yet.

My stomach is still too nervous.

I’m early, but I’m sure Walker will be, too. Pulling open the doors to Java Jive, the comforting aroma of their signature brew fills the air. It’s a mix of rich roasted beans, a touch of cinnamon, and possibly a hint of vanilla undertones.

It’s basically a hug for your senses.

I inhale deeply as I wait my turn, letting the aroma engulf and center me. My face breaks out in a big smile when I see who is at the counter waiting to take my order.

Cameron Walsh, or Cami, as everyone calls her, has definitely thrown a curveball in the Callahan family, but I find myself incredibly empathetic for the journey she’s been forced to take. Even confronting the Callahans with the truth was somewhat forced on her, however well-intentioned Liam and Jack’s confrontation was a few months ago.

The dark auburn-haired beauty is still rocking deep purple streaks in her long wavy hair, which is currently pulled back in a loose braid over her shoulder. Her vivid green eyes are undeniably the same shade as her sister Vivian’s, and I’m a little surprised no one made that connection prior to the big reveal.

“Hi, Cami! Good to see you again. How’s it going?” My voice sounds overly cheerful, and I cringe slightly, but I think it’s just nerves related to my upcoming conversation with Walker.

“Hey, Harlow, it’s good! Busy day, but we close in about an hour, so just a heads-up if you were looking to hang out longer.”

I wave away the concern. “No, that’s fine. I’m just meeting Walker for a quick chat. We will be out of your hair in plenty of time.”

She nods, brushing her hands off on her apron before pulling up the tablet to enter my order. “Cool. What can I get for you?”

“Can I get a medium iced vanilla almond latte and a cinnamon roll if you have any left?”

Cami smiles. “You’re in luck. Our last batch for the day is in the oven, so I can run it out to you in about five minutes?”

“Oh, even better!”

“Make that two, please, Cami. And a large black coffee with cream.” Walker startles me as he adds to my order and then beats me to pay with his phone.

“Coming right up!” Cami laughs as she turns to start our drinks. “Go find a seat. I’ll run everything out in a minute!”

“Thanks, Cami. Come on, Harlow. It’s not that bad. I won’t bite.” Walker nods toward the tables by the front windows, and we make our way to our seats.

I exhale slightly louder than I intend to as I sit down across from Walker, then sheepishly look away as he raises his eyebrows at me.

“So … you wanted to talk?” I ask without meeting his eyes.

“I did.” His short reply is intentional. He is going to make me spell this out.

“Is it … is it about me dating one of your brothers-in-law?”

The corner of his mouth tips upward ever so slightly. “It is.”