“She and Gia are as thick as thieves. Scarlett has announced that she may never move out of Saxon’s gorgeous house, that Saxon is mighty fine, and if we have a hot guy for her, she’s ready and willing.” Vander’s voice was dry and amused.

Easton’s lips twitched. “Okay.”

“How’s Harlow holding up?”

Easton squeezed on the phone harder with his fingers. “On the surface she’s acting fine, but she’s stressed and scared.”

“You’ll get her through this.”

“If she ever truly lets me in. She thinks that when this is over, I’ll be done with her.”

Vander was silent for a moment. “Well, she has no evidence to make her believe otherwise. You’ve dated, but you’ve never kept a woman long.”

“Because none of them were her.”

“She know that?”

“I moved her into my place, I’m helping her every way I can, I introduced her to Dad and Ma—”

“Easton, I think it takes more than that. You have to tell her what she means to you.”

“How the hell did you get good at giving relationship advice?”

“I’m a private investigator. I watch, I gather intel…all so I can avoid this particular trap.”

Easton laughed. “The tougher they are, the harder they crash and burn.”

Vander grunted. “Not me.”

Easton hoped his brother met someone who cracked through that tough shell of his. Someone who gave him hell, because Vander thrived on a challenge, but who gave him peace, as well. If anyone had seen and done too much, it was Vander.

“Thanks, Vander. Let me know as soon as you find Carlson.”

“Will do, bro.”

Easton glanced out the window and saw the sun was setting. It was time to go home. He realized he’d usually stay at least another hour, but he was excited to go home with Harlow.

He grabbed his jacket and strode out of his office.

She was sitting at her desk, looking so fucking beautiful.

“Let’s go home.”

She spun. “Keep your voice down. People might think you mean together.”

He looked at the ceiling. “I do mean together.” He did understand her concerns, even if he didn’t like them. But he wasn’t hiding how he felt for her for long. “Fine. Can I give you a ride home, Harlow?”

“Sure.” She packed her gear and grabbed her handbag.

In the elevator, she stood with two feet between them.

The doors closed.

“Vander has a lead on your father.”

She released a breath. “That’s good.”

Easton wanted to reach for her but curled his fingers into his palms. “Let’s get home. You need a glass of wine, and I’m going to make risotto.”

She turned toward him. “You’re angry with me. About not wanting people to know that we’re…that I’m…”

“Living with me? Sleeping with me? Having sex with me?” Mine.

She nodded.