He also didn’t know her. He thought she was ridiculous. Trouble. That she should be humored and indulged to turn her office into a dollhouse and dress up her friends, but that she couldn’t play in the big leagues and be involved in big decisions. To Rohan, Kamila was just a flighty flirt who spent more energy on her dog’s fame than anything else.

She’d called him her best friend. She’d thought no one knew her like he did. But all she was to him was parties, signature drinks, matching outfits for her dog, and casual sex. Not a person to take seriously.

Kamila felt a prickle behind her eyes. She shut them quickly, not wanting Dad to see her upset. He was happy. That was what mattered. She could put on her mask.

Why did this feel like she was losing so much more than a job?

When she opened her eyes, Rohan was looking at her. Looking through her. He appeared apologetic, at least. But if he were really sorry, then he wouldn’t have kept this from her in the first place. Letting Dad effectively shut down Emerald from under her, and hiding it from her, meant he didn’t care about her as much as she cared about him.

But she already knew that, didn’t she? She knew, without a doubt, that she had kissed him both times. He didn’t feel anything more than friendship. He’d even said so at the dog park that night.

And how did she feel? Kamila was finally willing…able…to admit the truth to herself. She’d been pushing down this knowledge for weeks. She’d fallen in love with Rohan.

Completely and hopelessly in love.

She exhaled—and took a bite of pasta. She had no idea how she would do it, but she needed to get through this meal.

Chapter 22

Chapter 22

Kamila managed to get through the rest of dinner while listening to Dad go on about his new place in Florida and how excited he was to never see snow, all while she averted Rohan’s eyes. Barely. But thankfully her text tone rang as she was swallowing the last heavy bite. Asha again.

Asha: I really don’t want to alarm you, but I need to speak to you before someone else tells you. Can you come over?

She texted back right away.

Kamila: Is everyone okay? Nicole? Lizzy?

After this terrible night, the last thing she needed was more bad news.

Asha: Yes, yes. We’re all fine. It’s just…Can you come over?

From the sound of it, Asha’s news wasn’t good, but honestly, she was glad for the save to get out of there.

Kamila: I’ll come over soon—I need to talk to you, too.