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“Like I said last night, you probably needed to let loose. But maybe next time stop at two or three drinks if you’re a sloppy drunk.” He winked.

I looked around, having no idea where my phone was. “What time is it?”

“Noon.”

A flash of panic hit. “Calder is coming home today.”

Rafe had no response to that announcement.

I ran a hand through my hair. “I’m sorry for putting you in a position where you had to look after me. You have enough to worry about with your aunt.”

“It was no problem, Talia.”

The air felt oddly thick.

“Did I…say anything last night that, you know, might have been inappropriate?”

“Inappropriate?” He shook his head. “No.” He hesitated. “But…”

“But what?”

“Sometimes, you know, alcohol brings out the truth.”

“Okay.” My heart pounded. “What do you mean?”

“Nothing,” he said curtly before walking over to the coffee machine. He grabbed a mug and poured a cup. “Milk and sugar?” he called.

“Yes…” I swallowed.

“Here you go.”

“Thanks.” I took a sip, feeling the caffeine immediately.

But there wasn’t enough coffee in the world for the question Rafe hit me with a minute later.

“Are you happy?”

“Happy?” I cleared my throat. “What do you mean?”

“Okay, let me be more specific. Are you happy with Calder?”

Oh God. What had I said that would lead him to ask that? I was too afraid to inquire. Or maybe I hadn’t said anything. As the seconds passed, I remained silent.

“Why are you asking me that?” I finally said.

Rafe took a step back and shook his head. “I shouldn’t have.” He walked toward the door.

I followed. “Where are you going?”

He whipped around. “You seem good now, so I’m gonna check on my aunt.”

The door shut behind him, and I stood there in a daze.

What the hell just happened?

CHAPTER 11

If I didn’t stop pacing, I was going to wear a path into the carpet.