Page 74 of The Twisted Beats

I blew through the advance I received, paying all our bills. It’s the only reason I let my ma go on this last photoshoot away from home.

She’s not stable enough to be working away on location, but there wasn’t another choice. We need the huge paycheck to cover the next few months. Even with my uncle living on our property, we’re too close to losing everything.

That’s why I’ve gotta make my career successful. Once I do, my ma can stop worrying about everything and get healthy again.

I allow my concerns to fade and focus on Lily. She’s great to be around. She soothes me.

We get off the rollercoaster and I gesture to a cotton candy stand. “Want some?”

“Yes! I haven’t had cotton candy in years.”

I furrow my brows. “Are you sure you know how to have fun?”

She playfully slaps my chest. “Stop it.”

“You know I’m just joking.”

“I know you are.” She steps up to the guy and picks out a bag of pink candy.

I get us a couple of drinks and lead us to a place to sit. She eats her treat while I relax for a minute.

“Are you having a good time, Lily?”

“So much, Callum. I never knew what I was missing out on.” She stares lovingly across the table at me. “Honestly, I don’t think it’s the park, though.”

“Then what is it?”

“It’s spending the day with you. I could be anywhere with you and be feeling this way.”

“What way is that?”

Her cheeks turn red and she tucks a lock of her platinum wig behind her ear. “Really, really happy.”

“Me too.” I gaze at her as intense passion bubbles up in my throat. “Lily?”

“Yes, Callum.”

My breathing speeds up. “I think I’m falling for you.”

She grins wide. “I know I’m falling for you.”

I get up, sit beside her, and seal our proclamation with a deep kiss. Who cares who sees? I want the world to know I’m in love with her.

She’s the only thing in my life that doesn’t cause me any distress. She pulls away and looks into my eyes.

Her expression grows into one of concern. “Callum, what’s going on?”

I pick at the VIP wristband the guide snapped on me. “Nothing.”

“Don’t lie to me.” She gestures to my jacket pocket. “You might be smiling and running around with me, but you keep checking your phone and rubbing your neck like you’re waiting for bad news.”

My stomach turns. “Lily?—”

“No. There’s something not right with you. Tell me what it is.”

I shake my head and release a deep sigh. “I’m just worried about my ma.”

“What’s wrong with your mom?”