"Do you even have to ask? I'm all for it, with both hands and feet!" She excitedly grabbed Leilani's hand. "Leilani, if you became my cousin-in-law, I'd wake up laughing from my dreams!"
Leilani was amused by her, but before her smile could fully bloom, a long, powerful hand suddenly clamped onto her wrist from behind.
"Why not ask me that question directly?"
A deep voice resonated by her ear, carrying a familiar, cold scent.
The moment her wrist was grabbed, Leilani tensed instinctively. Her fingers twitched, almost executing a reverse takedown.
But a split second later, she realized something was different. She looked up sharply, meeting a pair of eyes as deep as ink. She froze.
So, Callahan had been standing behind her the whole time. Under the moonlight, his silhouette was deep and sharp. His eyes watched her heavily, an undercurrent swirling within them.
When did he get back? Leilani felt a pang of annoyance. Did he hear everything she just said to Judie?
Leilani's situational awareness wasn't usually this low. If she hadn't been talking to Judie, she wouldn't have failed to hear his movement.
Judie stood by, eyes wide, glancing back and forth between them.
Callahan's gaze swept over her indifferently.
Years of growing up with Callahan kicked in. Judie instantly took the hint and retreated two steps. Then she made a very theatrical exit.
"Oh right... I suddenly remembered my mom is looking for me! You guys talk!"
No kidding. Why would she stay here? It was obvious the two of them had things to discuss. Judie had no desire to be a third wheel.
Before leaving, Judie winked at Leilani and bolted.
Who drags someone to a secluded spot the moment they meet?
If she didn't know Callahan wasn't the type to do anything sleazy, Leilani would have taught anyone else a harsh lesson.
Callahan's eyes were dark, his voice low and raspy. "Leilani, isn't it time we had a good talk?"
His gaze was too scorching. Leilani's heart kept racing. Yet she had to feign calm. She didn't want to show any turmoil in front of him. Besides, Callahan's question was vague; she didn't understand.
"Talk about your identity." He stepped closer, his breath hot. "Talk about your deception toward me."
Leilani's heart jumped. She forced a cold smile. "How did I deceive you?"
Was this about not clearly stating she was Dr. Cheney, the one treating his grandfather? Did that count as deception?

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