Chapter 14
Chapter Fourteen
Emmersyn: I heard you’re coming back to the East Coast next week.
Caleb: I heard that you and my sister went to a party, which is a little strange since we were texting that night while you were on the rooftop or was it the balcony of your grandparents’ penthouse. Either way, we were stargazing, but you also were partying . . . How did you manage?
Emmersyn: I’m that amazing, obviously.
Caleb: Obviously. Have I convinced you that moving to San Diego is a better option yet? We have great colleges too—and I’m here.
Emmersyn: Nope. My grandmother is in New York. You . . . You’re fun, but what would I do while you’re busy working? You can’t keep up with me, Cal. I’m a pretty busy person.
Caleb: Is she back in NYC? I thought she was on her grief vacation until further notice.
Emmersyn: She cut it short since I’m causing a lot of problems.
Caleb: Like heading to Boston to party with my sister.
Emmersyn: Sure, let’s go with that.
Caleb: Is your grandmother really back?
Emmersyn: Yep. She got wind that I’m planning to defer this year and wants to talk some sense into me.
Caleb: So you’re making a mistake according to her, huh? You can always just do the heist thing we discussed . . . Well, you never told me what you need to do, but go for it.
Emmersyn: Yeah, which is why your timing is perfect.
Caleb: My timing?
Emmersyn: You’ll be here next week.
Caleb: In Boston.
Emmersyn: It’s all the same. Marry me.
Caleb: Excuse me?
Emmersyn: I need you to marry me.
Caleb: Okay . . . just like that, let’s get married.
Emmersyn: Yes. It will solve a lot of problems and will help your family.
Caleb: How is that helping my family?
Emmersyn: I’ll pay you.
Caleb: You want to pay me to get married.
Emmersyn: Yes, please, just say I do. You don’t have to do much, just sign a paper and pretend for a few years that we’re together.
Caleb: And when do I get this payment? How does this benefit you . . . I’m fucking confused, Em. Help me understand before I think you’re certifiable.
Emmersyn: You’ll get the money probably a week after we sign, most likely before. Marriage is a way for me to access my trust fund. That should pay for my tuition and your father’s medical bills. Maybe even the mortgages.
Caleb: If I agree, my parents would be able to sell the house and move to North Carolina.
Emmersyn: See, it’s a win-win situation.
Caleb: Can I think about it?
Emmersyn: Yes, but please help me. I swear I’ll make it worth your while.