Too bad that the thought of leaving held no appeal.
He’d dropped that little bomb in the aftermath of those three tiny words she’d shared with him. Any man would be lucky to be loved by a woman like Becky. Callum knew that without a doubt.
Unfortunately, he also believed that eventually—whether he meant to or not—he’d hurt her. His short-lived marriage had taught him that he simply didn’t have the capacity for love a man needed to keep a woman happy. He was a man who needed independence. He’d already given everything he could and had nothing left.
Becky might want to believe he was worthy of her, but Callum knew better. He rolled his shoulders as he stared at his computer monitor, trying to shrug off some of the tension that had rooted there like one of the ranch’s decades-old oak trees.
Whenever he wasn’t on-site, he was, like today, at his desk in the Fortune Brothers Construction office near The Shoppes. There were so many aspects of the business to manage, especially now that the triplets had jumped headfirst into designing the restaurant. Ashley, Megan and Nicole were planning to visit Rambling Rose at the end of the month, and Callum wanted to make their trip a productive one. The breadth of projects they’d taken on in this town were the most expansive of his career.
He’d also never felt so connected to a place as he did to this small town. His father had worried about them moving to Texas and the possible influence of the extended Fortune family. The kidnapping that had occurred at last year’s wedding of Callum’s uncle Gerald had shaken David, making him wary of deepening his branch’s ties to the rest of the Fortunes. Callum hadn’t given it much thought. Before now, the locations he’d chosen for his projects had been based solely on the historic value and financial prospects.
Rambling Rose was proving to be different, and not just because of Becky. Maybe it was the history the Fortune family played in the town. It still gave Callum goose bumps to think about the pediatric center, their first major project, being built on the site of the Fortune’s Foundling Hospital. Linus also had a link to that piece of history, given that his mother had purposely left him at the site of the former Fortune orphanage.
If he didn’t know better, he’d swear he could feel the spirit of this community trickling into him, changing who he was at a cellular level. It was a ridiculous thought, of course, brought on by the lack of sleep and missing Becky.
A million times since that drive home from Austin, he’d wanted to call her. He hated how they’d left things, what she must think of him. He hated that he couldn’t be the man she wanted.
“Is this an okay time for a break?”
A smile broke over his face as his stepmom walked into the office. For the first time since Becky drove away in her red Corvette, he took a full breath. Marci wore beige slacks and a cashmere sweater, not a hair out of place as she grinned at him.
“This is the best surprise I could imagine,” he told her, standing and walking around the desk to wrap her in a tight hug.
Marci smelled like lilacs and vanilla, two scents he’d always associate with home. “Stephanie said she didn’t need help,” his stepmom explained, placing a quick kiss on his cheek. “But that baby is such a cute little guy. I couldn’t resist an opportunity to love on him.”
“We’re all so proud of her. Everyone is still holding out hope that Linus’s mother returns, but there’s no better place for him than with Stephanie.”
Marci’s smile turned wistful. “You were such troupers when the triplets were born. I know you took on the lion’s share of the responsibility for them when I needed help.”
“It wasn’t a big deal.” He didn’t like discussing that time with anyone in his family because the lingering resentment he harbored made him feel like a jerk. He loved the triplets and the rest of his family. It had been his choice to step up when Marci needed help. No one had forced him. He’d simply done what he had to for his family.
“All that responsibility took a toll on you,” she said softly.
There was no point bothering to deny it. Not with his perceptive stepmom. “Would you like to see some of the projects we’re working on?” he asked instead. “We can start right here at The Shoppes.”
She studied him for a moment, clearly understanding a distraction when one was shoved at her. “I’d love that.”
Callum breathed a sigh of relief as he led her from the office. “Have you seen Steven and Dillon?”
“Not yet. I flew into Houston last night and drove over to Rambling Rose this morning. I called Stephanie on my way into town and met her at the pediatric center so that I could visit Linus at day care. Then I came here.”
“Steven had a meeting about the hotel, but then he was due back here so we could go over some paint samples with the designer. Dillon is probably at the spa or the vet clinic.”
“It feels like you’re so busy,” Marci said, and he heard the pride in her voice. “I can’t believe how much you’ve taken on in such a short time.”
“I like to be busy.” Callum laughed softly. “But we both know Fortune Brothers Construction wouldn’t be half as successful without Steven and Dillon in the mix. The three of us together bring the magic.”
“You’ve always had a soft spot for your brothers and sisters.” Marci reached across the console and patted his arm. “I can’t help but worry about what that’s cost you.”
They walked from the modular office toward the entrance of The Shoppes at Rambling Rose. The building had housed an old five-and-dime, but they’d taken it nearly down to the studs to rebuild it into an upscale set of shops that ultimately would include fashion, jewelry and a designer home accessory store. Their neighbors in Rambling Rose Estates seemed especially excited about this upcoming addition to the community, although Dillon still worried locals weren’t totally on board with the plan.
He didn’t give much credence to that. Every one of his projects had received a bit of pushback in the initial stages. He believed beyond a doubt they were improving this town for everyone, and Callum hoped that as the longtime residents began to patronize the new businesses they’d realize the changes benefited everyone.
“I have a great life that’s even better because of how close we all are. Although it’s going to be interesting when the triplets arrive. I’m not sure Rambling Rose has ever seen anything like the three of them on a mission.”
“If anyone can help ease the transition for the girls, it’s you.” Marci stopped and shook her head. “I’m sorry, Callum. That’s the problem. We all assume you’ll help with whatever someone in the family needs.”
“I will,” he answered without hesitation.
“But you shouldn’t have to,” she told him gently. “It’s past time we allow you to put your life first. The family you create for yourself with your own—”
“No.” He held up a hand. “I tried going down that path and failed. I’m not going to have a family of my own. My independence means too much to me.”
“You and Doralee weren’t a good match. That doesn’t mean you have to give up on love completely. What about that nurse and her adorable twins from the ribbon-cutting ceremony? Stephanie told me you’ve been spending a lot of time with her.”
“Stephanie shares too much,” he said and started walking toward the building again. He waved to a few guys on the crew as Marci caught up to him.
“Don’t get snippy. Your sister wouldn’t have to keep me apprised of what’s going on in your life if you’d tell me yourself.”
“Becky and I are over,” he said simply. “She doesn’t want to waste time on a guy who’s a bad bet for the future.”
“You are not a bad bet,” his stepmom insisted, sounding affronted that he’d dare utter those words.
“I love you,” he said, giving her shoulder a quick squeeze. “But I’m not ready to talk about it.”
“I’m here when you are,” she answered.
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Steven caught sight of them at that moment and strode over with a wide grin, catching Marci in a big bear hug.
The pain in Callum’s chest eased slightly as he spent the rest of the workday with his brothers and stepmom. After a quick tour of the progress on The Shoppes, they caught up with Dillon at the planned spa location. Like the devoted mother she was, Marci oohed and aahed at all the improvements they were making in town.
They took her to lunch at the Mexican restaurant where he’d eaten with Becky and the girls, and then they headed toward the old feed and grain building that would be the triplets’ restaurant.
“The three of them have been able to talk about little else since you put the wheels in motion on this project,” Marci confided as she spun in a slow circle to take in the space. “It’s really exciting.”
“We’re staging a Texas takeover,” Dillon said with a laugh.
Marci arched a brow. “You’re a few decades behind the curve on that. Fortunes have been making their mark in Texas forever, it seems.”
“But this place is ours,” Steven clarified. “I know the Fortunes have longstanding ties here as well, and maybe that’s why Rambling Rose feels like home.”
Callum’s chest ached at his brother’s words. A significant part of why the town felt like home to him was Becky. Even though not speaking to her over the past few days had been horrible, he could still feel their connection. She might hate him at the moment, but just knowing she was nearby gave him some comfort.
Of course, it also motivated him to ensure the current slate of projects stayed on schedule so there’d be nothing to prevent him from moving on. Surely some other man would swoop in and capture Becky’s heart. Though it might actually kill Callum to see her with someone else.
“You look so sad,” Marci told him quietly as Dillon and Steve launched into a discussion about how many treatment rooms they’d need.
“I wish Dad wanted to spend more time in Texas,” he told his stepmom when her perceptive gaze landed on him. Let Marci think his inner turmoil centered on that and not Becky.
“He worries about all of you and wants you to be safe.”
“We are.”
“I know.” She offered a gentle smile. “He’ll come around. He was so proud of you at the opening of the pediatric center, and he’s excited to see the vet clinic, especially since Stephanie will be working there.” Marci checked her watch. “Which reminds me, she’s picking up Linus in a few minutes and I promised I’d be at the ranch when they arrived.”
“We can head back to the office to get your car.”
They said goodbye to Dillon and Steven, both of whom would be joining them for a big family dinner at the house later. If Becky hadn’t ended things, she and her girls would have been invited, too. He knew Marci would have been thrilled to have three babies to love on.
He didn’t mention it, but he missed Becky more than he could say. How many times would he have to remind himself the breakup was for the best before he believed it?
* * *
Becky drove out to the ranch the following afternoon, her stomach fluttering with nerves.
To her surprise, the surly young man who’d given her so much trouble when she’d approached the gate the last time waved her through with a smile on this occasion.
She should feel vindicated, but it had been difficult to muster any kind of happiness ever since she’d said goodbye to Callum.
Stephanie had texted and asked her to visit baby Linus. Callum’s sister hadn’t directly referenced the breakup, but she’d made a point in the text of telling Becky that Callum wouldn’t be home.
Maybe Becky should have said no. Cutting off ties with anyone named Fortune was probably best. But she wanted to see the baby and considered Stephanie a friend. She hadn’t just lost a boyfriend when she ended things with Callum. The Fortunes had made her feel so welcome, and she’d soaked up their generosity and friendship like she was a sponge left out in the rain.
“Cawl,” Luna shouted as they pulled up to the house. How had she remembered?
Sasha popped the binky out of her mouth. “Cawl.”
Blinking away tears, Becky unbuckled her seat belt and turned to face her daughters. “Callum’s not here right now, but we’re going to see baby Linus and Miss Stephanie.”
“Gog,” Sasha whispered.
“Yes.” Becky smiled at her sweet girl. “I’m sure we’ll get to see the animals, too.”
She got the girls out of the minivan and carried them toward the front door. Before she could knock, it opened to reveal Marci Fortune, Callum’s elegant stepmother.
“Hi,” Becky breathed, her hold on the twins tightening.
“Hello, Becky.” Marci gave her a disarmingly friendly smile. “It’s nice to see you again. Please come in. May I hold one of your sweet girls?”
“Sure.”
As soon as Marci held out her hands, Luna reached for her. Sasha rested her head on Becky’s shoulder, watching her sister as she sucked on her beloved binky.
“Stephanie didn’t mention you were visiting,” Becky said, then blushed at the thought that Marci must know about her breakup with Callum. He’d told her that Marci was protective of her children, even as adults, and wondered what the older woman thought.
Probably that Becky was the biggest idiot alive to reject her handsome, wealthy, charming stepson.
“My daughter appreciates all the help you’ve given her with the baby,” Marci said as she led Becky through the house toward the wing that Stephanie occupied. “She tells me you’ve been invaluable sharing your expertise and offering support.”
“It’s a wonderful thing she’s doing with Linus,” Becky answered honestly. “Obviously she had a great role model because her maternal instincts are spot-on.” She cleared her throat, then added, “I’m still holding out hope that Laurel returns to claim her baby. We talked a bit that first day she came to the pediatric center. Who knows how much she remembers of the things she told me, but it was clear she had a lot of love to give. I don’t know what happened to push her to the point of relinquishing Linus.”
“Becoming a mother isn’t always as easy as people want you to believe,” Marci said with a sigh. “I struggled with my health, both physical and mental, after the triplets. Even before when we were trying for more children.” Her eyes gleamed with unshed tears. “I’m sure Callum shared with you how much responsibility he took on during that time.”
“I know he loves you and his sisters very much.”
“That’s kind of you to say, but it took a toll on him. I didn’t realize how large of one until recently. He cares about you, Becky. You and your girls.” She bounced Luna gently in her arms.
Becky nodded. “But he’s planning to leave Rambling Rose. My life is here, and I can’t have someone become close to the girls who isn’t going to be a part of their lives long-term. It’s not fair to them.”
“I understand.” Marci reached out to stroke a finger across Sasha’s cheek. “They’re precious. My hope would be that he changes his mind and you give him another chance.”
Becky closed her eyes as she considered that possibility. Would she give him another chance? She almost laughed at the absurdity of the question. Callum could have a thousand chances if that’s what it took.
“Mom.” Stephanie appeared in the doorway, the baby wrapped in a blue blanket and cradled in her arms. “Stop hogging Becky. I want her to see Linus before he falls asleep again.”
“I think he’s gotten bigger already,” Becky exclaimed as she walked to her friend, and Stephanie beamed in response. “Hey, buddy.”
Her girls babbled at little Linus and they all headed for the sitting room Stephanie had set up with a play mat, bounce seat and motorized swing.
They visited while her girls played with the baby’s toys, largely entertained by Marci. Stephanie had a list o
f questions about the infant’s care and specific milestones that Becky was happy to answer.
Neither Stephanie nor her mom brought up Callum again, which was both a relief and a disappointment. She wasn’t sure she could handle talking about him, but wanted so badly to ask how he was doing.
Was he as miserable as she?
After almost an hour of wakefulness, Linus fell asleep in Stephanie’s arms. She transferred him to her mother and walked Becky and the twins to the front door.
“Thanks for coming over,” she said. “I hope it wasn’t too weird with how things stand between you and Callum.”
“Actually, it wasn’t,” Becky said, surprised to find the statement to be true. She buckled Sasha and Luna into their car seats and then turned to Stephanie. “Even though things ended with your brother, I hope we can still be friends.”
“Me, too,” Stephanie said. “You might be the first real friend I’ve made in Rambling Rose. At least the only one who doesn’t think I’m crazy for becoming a foster parent.”
“They must not realize how big of a heart you have.”
Stephanie leaned forward and gave Becky a hug. “Thank you,” she whispered, then added, “I’m sorry my brother’s a big dummy.”
A laugh popped out of Becky’s mouth. “He’s a good man,” she corrected. “He just needs to realize it.”
After another squeeze, Stephanie released her and Becky climbed into the minivan and headed home. The sun had started to set across the western sky, leaving trails of pink and orange in its wake. A glance in the rearview mirror showed that her girls were staring out at the beauty of the sky, and their wide-eyed wonder made Becky smile.
She didn’t know if it was possible that she and Callum might get another chance, but the conversation with his sister had given her a bit of hope.
Hope that turned to dust in her throat as she approached the entrance gatehouse. A large silver truck, which she immediately recognized as Callum’s, pulled through the gate.
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