Anna leapt to her feet just as Callum arrived at the table. As she ran her hands down her hips to straighten her blouse, she noted his dusty cowboy boots, jeans, chambray shirt, and favorite canvas jacket—odd that he would show up in his riding attire. She angled her head to receive his kiss on her cheek.

“Sorry I’m late. Miscommunication,” he muttered.

She glanced at his face, expecting him to be angry. And he was. His jaw was clenched and she could see the tiny vein pulsing at his temple. His eyes were dark and menacing, but they weren’t looking at her. His rage was focused on Jackson, who seemed to find the whole situation humorous.

“No worries, brother. I was just keeping Anna entertained while she waited for you,” Jackson said, leaning back in his chair to look up at Callum. He raised his glass in a mock toast and took a sip of champagne.

“Callum…”Anna placed a hand on his chest. Even she didn’t know what was going on between her and Jackson, so how could she explain it to her fiancé.

The ringing of her cell phone offered a reprieve and she gave a silent prayer of thanks. She turned away from the two glowering men to take the call.

Cold dread washed down her body as her mother spoke, and she collapsed into her chair. This couldn’t be happening. Finally, her mother finished. “Okay. I’ll be right there,” she murmured numbly.

She grasped for her purse and stumbled as she tried to stand. Callum caught her and kept his arm around her shoulders to steady her. “What’s wrong?”

“A fire.” Even as she said the words she couldn’t believe it. A fire in her lab at the ranch. “I’ve got to get home.”

“I’ll take you.” Callum took her purse from her.

“My car’s faster.” Jackson was on his feet.

“I think you need to pay your bill.” Callum nodded his head in the direction of Sophia, who was scurrying towards their table. He turned and almost carried Anna out of the restaurant.