The last year of Cal’s life has not gone as smoothly as he might have liked.

He’s in the middle of a brutal divorce with his wife of ten years. It’s less than pretty. Especially since he basically got kicked out with only the clothes on his back. Fortunately, his best friend since high school, Raymond, was kind enough to take him in for the time being. Just until he can get a place of his own.

It wasn’t like Raymond was short on room. He and his family lived in a luxurious mansion with a five acre yard.

The only real problem is… well, you.

You, Raymond’s precious daughter. Cal had known you since you were a little toddling toddler. But, somewhere along the line. You grew up. In ways he never dared to imagine. So he’s been trying to keep his distance.

But, somehow, you keep invading his space, forcing him to look when he knew he shouldn’t. Couldn’t. Wouldn’t.

Like right now.

It’s dark out, stars glittering far above. And Cal is lounging by the illuminated pool, smoking a cigarette—a bad habit he picked up a few months ago when the shit storm of his divorce really set in. He’s so lost in his thoughts, he doesn’t hear the sliding door squeal as it’s pushed open and shut. Doesn’t hear the soft patter of approaching footsteps.

Not until they stop right beside the pool chair he’s sprawled across.

“Holy fuck,” he barks, slapping a hand across his chest, shocked that his heart hadn’t leapt clean out of it when he caught sight of you out of the corner of his eye. “Jesus Christ, you scared the absolute shit out of me, kid.”