Total pages in book: 64
Estimated words: 60497 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 302(@200wpm)___ 242(@250wpm)___ 202(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 60497 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 302(@200wpm)___ 242(@250wpm)___ 202(@300wpm)
“For what?” He looks genuinely perplexed.
I rise to my feet and walk around the desk, stopping in front of him. “For being here. You have your own business to run and my problems are just that. Mine. Yet you’re at my office and asking how you can help.”
He slides a hand along my cheek, cupping my face in his hand. “When are you going to get it? I care about you. And that means I want to see you succeed. So what can I do?”
“Well, I need to figure out how to replace the tapestries with something that is capable of being produced in a short period of time.” I’m grateful to put my mind to work because thinking of anything else, such as who is trying to sabotage me, will put me on edge.
He runs a hand over his face. “You need large, blown-up pictures of the players.”
I nod. “I need… banners!” The idea flies from my mouth before it’s fully formed in my brain.
He nods slowly. “That could work.”
“I mean, they won’t be as impressive as the tapestries, but I know they’ll arrive on time.” Am I as passionate about them as I was about my first concept? No. But I’m in no position to complain. I just need to focus on getting the job done well.
“You know,” Lucas says, glancing up at the recessed lighting above us. “If you wanted to keep a spotlight shining on each, like you’d originally planned, you still can.”
“Basic, yet brilliant! We make quite a team.”
“We do.” He grins at me and I’m drawn into his green-eyed gaze.
Rising to my feet, I act on impulse and wrap my arms around his neck. “Lucas Carras, I appreciate you.”
“Same goes, Ms. Dare.” Our lips meet, and the kiss isn’t hot and rushed, it’s more intense and real. There’s feeling beneath the physical act and butterflies take flight inside my belly.
I try reminding myself that we’re in a temporary arrangement that can’t go any further, but nothing about being around him, working with him, or even kissing him seems short term. He feels like a guy I can rely on. Like my guy.
Just as his tongue slides over my lips, I hear the tap of high heels and a chuckle. I step back from Lucas and glance toward the office entrance.
“Hello!” Kaylee places the four-cup coffee holder on her desk and waves. “No need to stop on my account.” Grinning, she pulls first one coffee, then another from the holders. “Wish I’d known you were here, Lucas. I’d have gotten you one.” She sits down at her desk and busies herself with who knows what.
He chuckles. “I think I’ll let you ladies get back to work.” He leans in close. “I’ll pick you up for the gala on Saturday night. And I’ll text you the time, friend.” He stands tall and grins, then strides past Kaylee’s desk. “Bye, Kaylee.”
She treats him to another finger wave. “Bye, Lucas.”
I shake my head and walk back around to my desk chair and sit down.
“What was he doing here?” she asks me.
I blink and realize I don’t know. I’d just been having a mini meltdown, looked up, and there he was. “He was… in the neighborhood,” I tell her.
Across from me, Kaylee grins and busies herself with work on her desk.
My phone rings.
I see it’s Jack and groan but swipe to take the call and put the cell to my ear. “Hi, Jack. What’s up? Aren’t you in Nashville?” I ask.
“And that means I can’t call and say hi to my sister?” he asks.
I roll my eyes, knowing in Jack-speak that probably means checking up on me. “Of course not. How are you?” I open my laptop and make some notes regarding the banners and places I think can get me the items in time.
“I’m good. Scoping out places, meeting new people,” he says.
“Anyone special?” I can’t help but ask. My brother is more of a relationship type of guy, but he’s never found the one, so my asking isn’t about ribbing him, it’s a serious question. I want him to be happy. If he hasn’t found anyone here, maybe there’s someone at one of the places he visits.
“I don’t have time for romance. I’m here to work,” he says in a gruff voice.
“That’s not the Jack I know and love. Promise me you’ll keep an eye open?”
“Sure. How are things going there? Is Lucas taking good care of you?” he asks.
If only he knows just how good. Uncomfortable with the thought, I shift in my seat. “Lucas has been great. I’ve had some unfortunate snags with the orders for the anniversary party and he’s been a rock.”
“I know he had his issues growing up, but he’s a great guy and solid partner. I’m glad he’s being a good friend for you too.” I hear Jack’s name being called. “Rainey, I have to run. I’ll see you when I get home. Good luck with everything.”