Chapter 108
Selena was head over heels for Everett, to the point where she hardly ever noticed other guys. But Callum was different-his charm and good looks were enough to make her do a double-take.
It was only natural for people to admire beauty, and Selena was no exception.
Before Lily had even gotten close, she was already buzzing with excitement. Worried that her enthusiasm might overwhelm Callum, Selena suggested Lily and Grace hang back while she went to chat with him first. Grace quickly held onto Lily, saying, "Go on ahead. I'll keep an eye on this one. She won't bolt anywhere!"
Lily pouted. "I wasn't going to run."
Selena tousled her hair and handed her a cup of juice before making her way to Callum. "Sorry to keep you waiting, Dr. Campbell." Callum's dark eyes suddenly caught sight of Selena. She was holding a cup of juice, her smile brighter than the sun above them. "Brought you some juice. You've been hard at work."
He seemed caught off guard, a whirlwind of emotions flickering through his eyes, leaving him momentarily stunned.
Selena waved a hand in front of his face. "Dr. Campbell? Did I surprise you?"
Callum snapped back to the present, a gentle smile spreading across his lips. "Not at all."
When Selena handed over the juice, he took it without hesitation, popped in the straw, and took a sip. "It's great, thank you." Relieved, Selena said, "I was worried you might not like juice. A lot of guys find it too sweet."
Like Everett, the pickiest one of all.
She remembered a time when a new juice blend was all the rage. She saw a long line at the mall and figured it had to be good.
She spent ages in line to buy two cups, planning to share with Everett. But when she excitedly gave it to him, he looked disgusted and wouldn't even try a sip, impatiently spilling it instead.
"I can't speak for others, but I quite like it."
Callum's gentle voice brought
Selena back to the moment,
warming her heart. It didn't matter. whether he was being sincere or just polite. It was a much nicer response than Everett's dismissive attitude. At least he didn't crush her feelings.
Remembering her mission, Selena said, "Actually, I came to ask for a favor." Callum nodded, "Sure, what is it?"
She gestured to her grandma and the young girl on a nearby bench, feeling a bit awkward but pressing on, "That's my neighbor's sister
l.ne
She'd love your autograph and, if it's
not too much trouble, a photo with you."
Before she could finish, Callum said, "Of course."
QUMS
Selena was pleasantly surprised. He was so easygoing, practically the dream guy.
"Thank you."
Selena waved Lily over, who dashed over at lightning speed, staring wide-eyed at Callum. "Callum, you're so cute!"
Callum gave a soft smile. "And you're very lovely, Lily."
To Selena's surprise, the usually bold Lily blushed, turning shy. Dr. Campbell's charm was undeniable!
Selena took charge as the photographer, pulling out her phone to find the perfect angle. "Say cheese!"
After snapping a picture and getting an autograph, Lily beamed with satisfaction. Just as Selena was about to leave, Callum spoke up, "Selena, would you like to walk around the park with me?"
Surprised, Selena nodded. "Sure, I know this place like the back of my hand. I'll be your guide."
She asked Lily to take Grace home since she'd been out for a while and might be tired. Then, she and Callum began their stroll along the lakeside.
After a bit, he paused, gazing out over the water, and said softly, "Selena, do you know why I signed up to volunteer here?"