A relationship in need of renovation

Bess Fitzgerald is thrilled to be overseeing the expansion of her family’s B and B. Working with Daniel Forester, not so much. After one wild night, they agreed to stay out of each other’s lives. The attraction still sizzles between them now, but Daniel’s need to be in control and Bess’s impulsive nature continually drive them apart.

Keeping their relationship professional is harder than Bess anticipated. And it’s not long before they give in to temptation. Suddenly it’s clear Daniel needs her in a way she never thought possible. This may be the year Bess finally gets her Christmas wish!

“So, this isn’t a one-night stand?”

“I don’t know what it is.” Daniel dropped her hand and paced over to the stereo, pushing buttons to play a less intense song. “I’m having trouble keeping my hands off you while we work.”

“I know what you mean.” Her fingers tapped her skirt.

He nodded. “I don’t want to mess up our working together.”

“Okay.” Bess waved her hands between them. “We’ll ignore these sparks.”

He moved across the room and grabbed her hands again. “Let’s take a chance.”

He was so close. The scent of sandalwood, lemon and wine filled her head. “What do you mean?”

He took another step and pulled her back into his arms. “We should check out the...possibilities. This is like the rooms we stripped down to the studs. Right now, everything is possible.” Daniel cupped her face with his hands. “Are we on the same page?”

She could barely get words through the lump in her throat. “Okay.”

“Good.” He kissed her slowly.

Dear Reader,

Welcome back to Fitzgerald House Bed and Breakfast and beautiful, quirky Savannah. The Fitzgerald sisters are busy turning Carleton House into a B and B. Bess, a landscape architect, is taking point. She expected to work with Samuel Forester on the restoration, but instead must work with Daniel, his son. (And they have history!) Samuel is sick with MDS, a blood and bone marrow cancer.

In my former career, I worked at a pharmaceutical company that developed a drug to slow and stop the growth of cancer cells in MDS patients. At the drug launch, a former trial participant brought the audience to tears and I’ve never forgotten him. Before receiving the trial drug, he could not walk up stairs, much less play with his grandchildren or work his farm. The drug gave him back his life.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for MDS.

My mother died of bone marrow cancer. The bruising and fatigue were relentless as cancer slowly overtook her body. We were lucky. After diagnosis, my family enjoyed our mother for another eleven years, but I still miss her.

A Savannah Christmas Wish is foremost about family and love. And I love to hear from readers. You can contact me through my website: www.nandixon.com.

Happy reading,

Nan Dixon

A Savannah Christmas Wish

Nan Dixon

www.millsandboon.co.uk

NAN DIXON spent her formative years as an actress, singer, dancer and competitive golfer. But the need to eat had her studying accounting in college. Unfortunately, being a successful financial executive didn’t feed her passion to perform. When the pharmaceutical company she worked for was purchased, Nan got the chance of a lifetime—the opportunity to pursue a writing career. She’s a five-time Golden Heart Award finalist, lives in the Midwest, and is active in her local RWA chapter and on the board of a dance company. She has five children, three sons-in-law, one grandchild, a husband and one neurotic cat.

To Mom and Dad—always.

To my father-in-law. Your goal to make two people smile a day is inspiring. You are missed.

To my family, the big, loud, wonderful group of you—thank you with all my heart.

Acknowledgments

Special thanks go out to my writing community. First, my critique partners—Ann Hinnenkamp, Neroli Lacey, Leanne Farella and Kathryn Kohorst. Thank you for making me a better writer. Second, my Golden Heart sisters the Unsinkables, Starcatchers, Lucky13s and Dreamweavers. No one could ask for better support. I’m toasting you with prosecco! Next my RWA chapters: MFW, Golden Network and WisRWA. In all my careers, I have not met a more wonderful and sharing group of people. Thank you.

And finally, this book is for my sisters—

Mo, Sue and Trish.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Acknowledgments

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

CHAPTER NINETEEN

CHAPTER TWENTY

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

EPILOGUE

Extract

Copyright

CHAPTER ONE

I do not understand how anyone can live without one small place of enchantment to turn to.

Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings

“WAIT!” DANIEL RUSHED through the carriage house, his work boots thumping on the wood floor.

Quint climbed out of the trench. “What?”

Pointing at the two-by-fours in the channel, Daniel asked, “Who set the forms?”

“Me.” Quint pushed back his cap. “Why?”

“The footings should be on the opposite side.” Daniel unrolled the blueprints and anchored them with chunks of wood. He hated screwing up.

Taking a slug of water, Quint cursed. He joined Daniel at the makeshift table. “Sorry.”

“Let’s get this corrected.”

He worked side by side with Quint and another crew member, trenching out the correct footings to support the carriage house’s new second floor.

Pop would insist the crew fix their own mistakes, but to get the job done, Daniel preferred staying in control.

He would finish the carriage-house project ahead of schedule, because it was foreplay compared to Forester Construction’s bid on the main house. Restoring Carleton House would be the biggest and sweetest project Pop had ever tackled.

Daniel swiped at the sweat trickling into his eyes and stripped off his T-shirt. It was a typical Savannah August morning. A sauna might be cooler. Even with the carriage doors open, no breeze stirred.

While the crew compacted the dirt and laid rebar, he grabbed his own water jug. Opening his phone, Daniel checked today’s task list. He needed to order the lumber for this renovation, and help Pop and Mom finalize the Carleton House bid.

Coppery fire flashed in the sunlight right outside the doors. In walked Bess Fitzgerald.

He tensed, rubbing his nose. Bess was the one person who ten years ago had taken a hammer to his self-control and destroyed it.

“Look at this.” Bess’s golden-red hair lit up the already sunny carriage house. “Taking out the hayloft opened up the space.”

“I think you should live here, too,” said Bess’s sister Abby. “There’s plenty of room.”

“I love my apartment.” Bess grinned. “Hey, Quint.”

“How’s it going?” Quint called out.

“I’m staying busy.” Bess’s laugh was sweet and high. “That’s always good.”

Bess ignored Daniel. Nothing new there. Bending, she snapped open a folding table.

Daniel tried not to, but his gaze darted to her gaping tank top. The shadow between her breasts called to him like the satin finish on a freshly varnished floor.

“Daniel, when can I work on the gardens?” Bess still didn’t look him in the eye.

When would he and Bess get over this—stiffness? After ten years they should have forgotten what had happened. One night among thousands. Why couldn’t Bess forgive or at least forget?

“Give me a couple of weeks,” Daniel said.

Abby set a tray of sandwiches and bars on the table. “I brought food.”

Bess hefted a large thermos. The table rattled as she set it down. “And lemonade.”

When Forester Construction crews worked for the Fitzgeralds, there were delicious fringe benefits.

The crew headed to the table, but Daniel shook his head. “It’s not even ten thirty.” To the Fitzgeralds, he said, “Thanks.”

Bess crossed her arms and finally looked at him. Her changeable hazel eyes were bright green today. “I need a better answer than a couple of weeks. There are things I want to get done before it gets cold.”

He knew the carriage-house construction schedule but didn’t want Bess painting him into a corner. “Once the footings and floors are in, I’ll give you the exact date.”

“Come on.” Her coppery eyebrows drew together. “You have everything scheduled to the minute.”

Daniel rested his hand on his phone. “Things happen.”

Her eyes narrowed. “Don’t they, though.”

The concrete mixer churned, the noise too much to talk around in this enclosed space. He mouthed, “I’ll let you know.”

Smiling, Abby waved and walked away. Bess frowned. Didn’t that describe his relationship with the two oldest Fitzgerald sisters: Abby so friendly and Bess ready to take a bite out of his hide.

Once he was sure the crew was back on track, Daniel headed out. In his truck, he sampled the thick ham-and-cheese sandwich Abby had made. No wonder his dad liked working with the Fitzgeralds.

He wound his way through Savannah’s historic district, slowing for tourists and pedestrians. Even in the heat, the sidewalks and cafés were packed. As he crossed Broad Street, the foot traffic eased. By the time he’d driven into his parents’ neighborhood, the only thing moving was the Spanish moss waving in the oaks.

Daniel grabbed the bid file and headed up the walkway. He frowned. The grass needed cutting. His pop didn’t usually let stuff like that go.

Walking into the air-conditioned house, he sniffed. The scent of lemons wafted from the kitchen. “Something smells good.”

His mother moved into the hallway, drying her hands. Her bright blond hair curved around her chin. “It’s lemon meringue pie.”

“I could handle pie.” He rubbed his belly. “Pop here yet?”

Lines formed between his mother’s eyebrows. “Your father’s upstairs resting.”

“On a workday?”

She twisted the towel in her hands. “I think he overdid it in the heat.”

Daniel tapped the file against his leg. Pop was...energetic. Tireless. Smart. They’d celebrated his fifty-fifth birthday last month, and Pop had kept them up until morning. Then he’d swung a hammer with the crew the next day.

“Are you ready to talk about the Carleton House bid?” his mother asked.

He held up the file. “Got it right here.”

She poured sweet tea and they sat at the heavy wood kitchen table.

“With Fitzgerald House complete, your father can’t wait to start on Carleton House.” His mother leaned closer. “Abby needs to stop feeding him.”

“Like that will happen.” He took a swig of his drink. “Abby brought sandwiches to the carriage house today.” And Bess brought the lemonade and her attitude.

Pop came down the back stairs, rubbing his neck. “Who’s stealing my pie?”

“Mom hasn’t offered me a piece.” Daniel pushed the file over to him. “I finished reviewing the Carleton House bid. That’s a lot of money.”

“I know.” Pop nodded. “That’s why I wanted your eyes on it.”

Mom was on her feet. “Do you want something to drink?”

“Tea’s fine.” Pop gave Mom a hug. “Thanks.”

Mom cut the pie and poured another glass. Then she grabbed her laptop and Pop opened the folder.

“It looked like you missed the wrought-iron bids. I added them in.” Daniel took a bite of pie. The sharp lemon had his mouth watering. “You make the best pie.”

“Aren’t you sweet?” Mom smiled. “Did you send me a new bid file?”

“This morning before I headed out.”

Pop mumbled and pulled out the subcontractors’ bids. He grabbed a pen and ticked off amounts. “Gol darn it, I missed the wrought iron.”

“I double-checked all the other sub bids.” Daniel had triple-checked everything. Mistakes weren’t acceptable. “It looks good now.”

He finished his pie, pushing his plate away.

“We’ve got another problem,” his mother said. “Carleton House will deplete our cash.”

Daniel frowned.

“I’ve run forecasts on our current projects.” Mom flipped around her laptop. “Once we add in Carleton House, our credit line won’t cover our operating expenses.”

They looked at the graph. Pop ran his hands through his white hair, making it stand up. “I hadn’t thought of that.”

Mom raised an eyebrow. “I’m not just a pretty face.”

“Don’t I know it?” Pop kissed her on the forehead. “You’re the best risk I ever took.”

“I took the risk, falling in love with an upstart contractor.” She linked her hands with her husband’s.

Equal doses of happiness and envy shot through Daniel. His parents were a team.

“We have time to get a bigger line in place,” Mom said.

Pop tipped his head. “The bank pushed back last year when we renewed the credit line.”

“What about the State Street apartments?” Daniel tapped his finger against the table. “Real estate markets are coming back. We could turn the apartments into condos.”

They kicked around ideas while his mother ran numbers. “If we sell three units by November, this will work.”

Three months. Daniel nodded. That sounded plausible.

“I’m glad we hadn’t decided on the rent increases.” Mom shut her laptop. “I’ll look up the renewal dates and contact the tenants.”

She looked at Daniel. “Bess.”

Daniel cringed. Bess had just told her sister how much she loved her apartment.

“Why don’t you warn her?” Pop suggested.

Heat filled his face. There were plenty of reasons he didn’t want to talk to Bess, but none he could tell his parents. He checked the schedule on his phone. Unfortunately, there wasn’t anything critical that would prevent him from breaking the news. “Sure. I’ll talk to her.”

Daniel rubbed the bump on his nose, compliments of Bess. How she would take the news was anyone’s guess.

* * *

DAMN DANIEL. BESS anchored the final lotus plant in the pond with more oomph than necessary. Water and mud splashed her face. He knew exactly when she’d be able to get into the gardens.

Sugar wouldn’t sweeten Daniel’s in control, I’ll tell you when I’m ready disposition.

Something nudged her hand. She flicked her fingers and a flash of orange and yellow darted away.

“How does it look?” Bess asked her assistant.

“Fantastic,” Molly said. “This is the best pond we’ve ever put together.”

Bess slogged her way out of the middle, her feet squishing inside her waders. Halfway up the hill, she pulled them off and tipped out the water. “So much for staying dry.”

“Now I know what you’d look like as a brunette.” Molly laughed. “Gorgeous.”

“Right.” Bess pulled on her ponytail. Mud caked her hair. “How did I get so dirty?”

Bess grabbed her water and glugged down a quart. She didn’t know if she was hot from the weather or from dealing with Daniel Forester. Or maybe it was seeing Daniel with his shirt off. She rubbed her temples. His body deserved to be sculpted. Better yet, frozen and put on display—then he couldn’t open his mouth and irritate her.

“I could use a short downpour to wash off the mud,” Molly said.

“We’ll have to make do.” Bess opened the hose nozzle, pointed it at her legs, and mud streamed off. “I hope this pond wins Suzie the neighborhood landscaping wars.”

Suzie and her neighbor kept trying to outdo each other. At least the war helped business.

“If the wars stop, we won’t have much work.” Molly picked at dried mud on her hands and held them under the hose. “We need the business. There’s nothing on next week’s schedule.”

“It is almost Labor Day.”

The work on King’s Gardens had slowed. Bess had transplanting and propagation work scheduled next week, but there weren’t any consults or installations on the calendar. The owner’s son, fresh out of college, had some consults, but not her.

“It’s slower than it’s ever been,” Molly said.

“I wish Cade would take the advertising suggestions I’ve made.” Bess knew she could run a landscaping business better than her boss.

Molly sat up. “You know what I wish?”

Bess raised her eyebrows. “Peace in the Middle East?”

“No.” Molly gave Bess’s shoulder a shove, leaving a wet handprint. “I want to marry rich like your sister and have a house like Suzie Essex.”

Bess looked at the sprawling estate home. Becoming attached to things like houses or people didn’t pay off. “Not me.”

“I forgot.” Molly wrapped her black hair back into a ponytail. “Your family’s place is better than this.”

“It’s not a home anymore.” Her family’s mansion sat in the center of Savannah’s historic district. Daddy’s scheming and dreaming had put them so far in debt, Mamma had to turn their home into a B and B or lose the house that had been in the family for generations.

Bess had what she wanted: her orchids, a job she loved and an awesome apartment walking distance from Fitzgerald House. As long as she stayed away from Daniel, life was perfect.

“It looks fabulous.” Suzie came down the hill. Her shorts and shirt were blinding white. She handed Bess and Molly dripping bottles. “Here you go, ladies.”

Bess took the lemonade. “Thanks.”

“Now that the plants and koi are in, are there additional instructions for the pond?” Suzie asked.

Bess walked her through the care, then handed her the notes she’d printed out for Suzie’s gardening service. “Give this to Leon. He’ll know what to do.”

“Wonderful.” Suzie pointed to her neighbor’s backyard. “What do you think Minnie will do now?”

“Not sure.” Bess hadn’t designed Minnie’s landscaping. “Since you’ve added the pond, I’ve got another idea.”

Bess pulled out her phone and scrolled to pictures of decorative gas fires. The ones she showed Suzie had lines of fire in front of rock waterfalls. “What do you think of adding a fire wall?”

“Ooh. I like.” Suzie tapped her French-tipped nail against the screen. “Where would you put it?”

Bess moved to the back of the terraced yard. “The waterfall would look great here.”

“I’ll think about it.” Suzie handed Bess the check for the pond’s last installment and an envelope. “I appreciate all your work.”

Bess and Molly loaded the truck. As she drove back to King’s Gardens, Bess asked, “What’s in the envelope?”

There was a rip and a gasp. “Two hundred dollars. Cash!”

“I know what I’ll buy with my share of our tip.” Bess smiled. “I’ve been eyeing some Pakchong blue orchids that are the perfect color for my mamma’s wedding.”

Mamma’s wedding was next weekend. Bess needed to finalize the flower arrangements and decorating soon. She rubbed her hand in her hair, and mud flakes dropped in her lap. Yuck.

“I’ve got my eye on a pair of shoes.” Molly tucked her tip into her pocket. “You need a love life, my friend.”

Love life? Between her job and Fitzgerald House, love wasn’t high on her priority list. “I don’t need the hassle.” Or the eventual loss.

Bess parked the truck and waved to Molly. She smiled as she dropped the check off with her boss.

“Thanks.” Cade set the check in the middle of his paper-piled desk. “Do you have a minute?”

“Sure.” There wasn’t room for two people in his office, so Bess leaned against the doorway. She scratched at the dried mud on her elbow.

Cade stared at the desk. “I...I have to let you go.”

Every muscle in her body froze. “What?” she choked out.

“I can’t afford to have two landscape designers on staff.”

“You’re...you’re firing me?” Her voice squeaked.

Cade sighed. “I guess I’m laying you off.”

“Jimmy just graduated.” She’d helped the kid get his feet on the ground. “Your son’s not ready to take on all the landscaping.”

Cade’s lips flattened into straight lines. “This is the way it has to be.”

“I can drum up more business. If you advertise, we’d attract more customers.” The words shot out of her mouth like BBs from a pellet gun.

He shook his head. Cade was brilliant with retail plants and flowers but hated marketing. “Between two years of droughts and the cold, wet spring, I can’t afford you.”

She couldn’t lose her job. “What about our arrangement on my flower-design business?” she whispered.

“I hope you’ll keep getting your flowers through me.” Cade pulled on his white hair. “You can still use the workroom and coolers.”

She paced in the hallway, fighting back the urge to tell Cade to shove it. Being impulsive had gotten her into too much trouble in her life.

“Do you—” her voice cracked “—want me to clean out my stuff?”

“I can give you two weeks.” Cade pushed out of his chair. It groaned as he stood. “How would that be?”

Two weeks. “I guess.”

This job had been perfect for her. She’d been able to juggle her hours at the B and B with her hours at King’s Gardens. Cade had also let her run her wedding-flower business from his shop. How would she find another boss so flexible?

Two more weeks of a job she loved. Her pulse pounded in her ears. “Let me help with the marketing.”

He let out a big exhale. “I’m sorry.”

This always happened to her. If she loved something, it was wrenched from her hands. She knew better than to fall for people or things.

How many examples did she need? She’d lost Papa first. Then her just-remodeled bedroom was the first room used for the B and B. And of course there’d been Daniel. At seventeen she’d loved him as only a teenager could. She gulped. He’d rejected her. Following that disaster had been her ex-boyfriend and their business. Now this job.

Driving home, she chewed her thumbnail. She’d been fired. Fired. On autopilot, she parked behind her building and grabbed the mail on the way to her third-floor apartment.

Tossing envelopes and catalogs on the table, she stripped. Her clothes hit the overflowing pile in her closet. After a quick shower, she threw on shorts and a tank top.

What would she do now? She ripped a hand through her wet hair. With slumped shoulders, she filled her sprayer and moved around the apartment, spritzing her orchids.

The dendrobium orchids were opening. Maybe she’d work the snow-white flowers into a table arrangement for Mamma’s wedding. If her Black Caesar cattleya would bloom, she’d add the ruffled rich fuchsia blossoms to her mother’s wedding flowers.

Grabbing the mail, she flopped onto the chaise on her tiny balcony and stared at the ripening tomatoes. She could eat one or two for dinner. But she didn’t move.

Voices and laughter carried from the street. How could people be happy?

The doorbell buzzed. Bess forced herself to the door and peered through the peephole.

Daniel? She pressed a hand to her stomach. She hated that her tummy flopped every time she saw him.

She opened the door. “Collecting rent in person?”

He shook his head. “Got a minute?”

She nodded, not opening the door any farther.

He rolled his eyes.

Back when she was a stupid teenager, his deep brown eyes had filled her dreams. She used to scribble his name all over her notebook and practiced writing Bess Forester.

“Will you let me in?” Irritation filled his voice.

She huffed out a sigh, opening the door. He walked by and she caught a whiff of his sandalwood scent. Her stomach clenched. He’d worn the same cologne ten years ago.

“Want something to drink?” She tugged on her tank top, wishing she wasn’t wearing her oldest and rattiest clothes. “I might have a couple of beers.”

Daniel rubbed his head, as if he had to think about this.

“If we have a beer together, I’m not going to rip off your clothes.” That had taken her a lot more beers ten years ago.

He frowned, as though he could hear her thoughts. “I guess a beer would be okay.”

She pointed to her balcony. “Grab a chair.”

“I don’t know how you live in this jungle.” Daniel waved a hand at her lush flowers and plants. “Are you sure they won’t attack?”

“They might.” And if there was justice in the world, they’d attack him. Unfortunately, ten years too late. “If I were you, I wouldn’t sit too close.”

He raised a blond eyebrow but headed outside.

On the way to the kitchen, she swept up the newspaper spread over the coffee table and shoved it into the recycling bin. The place wasn’t filthy. She rubbed her neck. It was sloppy, just like her outfit.

Who cared? This was Daniel. The only time he’d been attracted to her was when he’d been drunk.

Since that night ten years ago, she’d never seen him drunk. Never seen him lose control. Who could live that way?

She popped the caps off two beers and took a deep swallow of liquid courage.

Why was he here? For ten years they’d made avoiding each other an art form. As close as their families were, if she knew Daniel was going to be around, she kept her distance. Up until that night ten years ago, she’d followed him around as if she were a drooling puppy. Her face flamed. Her crush had been painful. When he’d worked with his father at Fitzgerald House, she’d used any excuse to hang around him.

He’d just thought she was a kid.

The bottles clanked as she headed to her balcony.

His long legs filled her lounge chair.

He took the beer. “Southbound. My favorite.”

Of course it was his favorite. Now she’d have to find another brand.

“Cheers.” He raised his bottle.

She didn’t clink her bottle with his. Taking a gulp, she smacked the bottle down on the glass table sitting between their chairs. “What do you want?”

“Jesus, Bessie, can’t we be civil?” Daniel pushed sun-bleached hair off his forehead.

She remembered how silky those strands of hair felt between her fingers. “When I look at you, I don’t feel particularly civilized.”

One golden eyebrow arched up.

“So is this visit about my rent?” She took another gulp and choked. “What kind of increase will I be looking at in October?”

Bess hoped not much. Without her King’s Gardens income, she’d have to economize. No more new orchids.

Daniel picked at the bottle label with his thumbnail. “I’m not here about rent.”

“So there’s no increase this year?” What a relief.

He closed his eyes and shook his head. “We couldn’t figure out another way to do this.”

She frowned. “Do what?”

“Finance the Carleton House work.” He leaned forward. “We’re turning these apartments into condominiums.”

“Condos?” She dropped her feet to the floor.

“The market’s hot. Ask your future brother-in-law.”

She didn’t need to ask Abby’s fiancé, Gray, about the market. She knew real estate prices were going back up.

“I’m sorry.” Daniel swung his legs over the side of the chair, brushing hers. “We’re not renewing your lease. I...my parents wanted me to warn you.”

“This is my home.” She waved a hand, almost clipping his jaw. “I’ve lived here for four years. I helped your dad paint every apartment.”

“I know.” He held up his hands. “We need the cash.”

“Get Gray to put up more money.” She threw both hands in the air, knocking his arm.

His lips formed a straight line. “We can’t.”

“Yes, you can.” She couldn’t deal with this on top of losing her job. And to have Daniel come here and...and announce she was losing her home was wrong.

“This is my place.” Her sanctuary. “The light in the apartment is perfect for my orchids. Where will I find fifteen-foot ceilings?”

“Slow down.”

“No!” This day had gone from bad to heading for the Dumpster. Her fingers clenched into tight balls of fury.

He stood. “I’m sorry.”

She jumped up, not willing to have him tower over her. “Let me stay.”

“We can’t.”

“How about a...a contract for deed.” She could pay them over time.

“We can’t. This is for Carleton House. For your family.” Pity filled Daniel’s eyes. “We need you out by September thirtieth.”

“The thirtieth?” she squeaked.

He stared at her fists. The idiot backed up, holding his hand in front of his face.

“Oh, good Lord, I won’t break your nose.” She threw her hands in the air.

“Are you sure?” Daniel took another step back and stumbled over the lounge chair. “You’ve broken it before.”

“I was seventeen.” And he’d just told her that sleeping with her had been the biggest mistake of his life. “It wasn’t on purpose.”

“I’ve never been sure it was an accident.”

She glared at him. “We’re not talking about that night. Ever.”

CHAPTER TWO

I love to smell flowers in the dark... You get hold of their soul then.

Lucy Maud Montgomery

BESS ALMOST TRIPPED on the uneven sidewalk.

It had been four days since Daniel, the villain, had said he was kicking her out of her home. Okay—not fair. They were selling her apartment. An hour ago he’d called and said he had the asking price. They were meeting at Becca’s Coffee Shop.

Didn’t Daniel remember what had happened here? Ten years ago, this had been Dora’s Café. Bess had run into Daniel here and he’d looked so sad, she’d been determined to cheer him up. Even though he’d been in college, she’d invited him to a party on Tybee.

He’d been hers for exactly six hours. Six wonderful hours until midnight. Then, after losing her virginity, the magic had disappeared. Daniel had been appalled that they’d had sex. He’d left her broken and rejected.

His words echoed in her head. I can’t believe I lost control. This should never have happened. It won’t happen again.

Even after his rejection, the next weekend she’d driven to Georgia Tech, hoping to convince him that they could be together.

Daniel had humiliated her. He’d accused her of getting him drunk. She was the reason he’d been out of control. Because of her pushing, they’d slept together. When he was around her, he lost sight of right from wrong.

That four-hour drive back to Savannah had been the worst time of her life.

Bess shook her head, shook away the past. Was Daniel really so cruel that he wouldn’t recognize where the worst night of her life had started?

The door jangled as she entered. After buying a cup of tea, she found an open table.

Daniel walked in wearing a Braves ball cap, and T-shirt and jeans that outlined the muscles he’d developed since the last time she’d touched him. It wasn’t fair that he was the hottest man in the coffee shop.

He nodded and headed to the counter.

Anger bubbled up inside her like a boiling kettle. She shoved it away. All she wanted was the price of her apartment. Then she’d leave.

After getting a glass of something cold, he headed to her table. “Hey, Bess.”

“How much are you asking for my apartment?” Her mouth almost puckered from the bitter words.

“I’m fine.” Daniel glared. “Thanks for asking.”

“Neither of us can stand to be in the same room for more than five minutes.” She flipped her braid down her back. “Especially not here.”

“What are you talking about?” He truly looked puzzled.

“You’ve forgotten?” Typical.

“Forgotten what?”

“This used to be Dora’s.” She pressed her lips together. “The night I invited you to the party.”

His mouth dropped open. “I forgot. I would never...”

She let out a shaky sigh. A least Daniel hadn’t picked the spot on purpose.

She waved a hand. “What’s the asking price?”

He pulled out a flyer and slid it across the table.

She skipped through the pictures and legalese, searching for the third-floor unit price. Her heart nearly stopped. “Two hundred and fifty thousand?”

He nodded. “We kept it low based on the comps in the area.”

Low? Her hand shook. The amount sounded insurmountable. “Can I keep this?”

“Sure. It’s the mock-up.” He reached for her fist but jerked his hand away as if she were poison oak.

Her teeth ground together. “You think I can’t qualify for a mortgage.”

“I guess...” He blinked. “You and your sisters have so much cash tied up in Fitzgerald House.”

“I make a good living.” But she didn’t. Acid burned in her gut. Her job was finished in a week and a half.

“I can ask around for available apartments,” he offered.

“No, thanks.” Now that she knew the asking price, she’d contact mortgage companies.

“You could move in with Abby,” Daniel suggested, taking a sip of his tea.

Bess wanted her own space. “I’ll figure it out.”

Daniel flashed his endearing crooked smile.

Her heart beat faster. Didn’t her darn body understand that one smile from Daniel could never erase the scars from his rejections?

“Can I keep renting after September thirtieth?” Until she figured out a way to buy her apartment.

Daniel set his glass down and drew circles in the condensation. He nodded before he answered. “Sure. But you need to move your plants so we can show the place.”

“Move my plants?” An ache grew in her chest. “But I babysit a lot of those orchids.”

“What?” Daniel’s brow furrowed.

“People hire me to care for their orchids.” She leaned forward. “When they flower, I send them back.”

“I...” He pushed back his ball cap. “I’ve never heard of anything like that.”

“It’s better than throwing away a valuable plant.” She straightened her shoulders. She hated people tossing perfectly good orchids. “It’s easy money.”

He grinned again. This one probably had panties dropping throughout the café.

Not hers. Never again.

“That’s—clever.”

“Thanks.” Warmth from his compliment swelled in her chest. She was pitiful. He was taking away her home and a stupid compliment made her insides wiggle like jelly.

“They’re beautiful, but it looks like a jungle.” He wagged his finger. “They have to go.”

“Okay.” She rubbed between her eyes. “Maybe they’ll fit in the B and B’s sunroom.”

“You’d have to keep the apartment picked up,” he warned.

“Sure.”

“I’ll help you move your stuff.”

Wasn’t that the story of her messed-up relationship with Daniel—first he broke her heart. Then he offered to help.

“Can I wait until after Mamma’s wedding?”

She didn’t want anyone to know about her troubles.

“I can help you move stuff on Sunday.”

Rush me, much? “In the afternoon. Late afternoon. There’s a family brunch on Sunday.”

“That works.”

She sighed. Now she needed to meet with her sisters and confess she’d lost her job and her home.

* * *

“THE ARBOR LOOKS SPECTACULAR.” Dolley stood under Bess’s ladder. “You, not so much. Get dressed. Now.” Her sister already wore her yellow chiffon halter dress.

Bess tugged the tulle until it draped down the side of the arbor. Climbing down, she took a few steps back. Then glanced over at her sister. “You look fantastic.”

Dolley twirled and the skirt flared out. “You will, too, once you’re dressed.”

“Is Mamma ready?” Bess looked at her watch. Lord, she needed to check the ballroom.

“She’s getting her hair done.” Dolley waved her off. “Go.”

Bess took the Fitzgerald carriage-house steps two at a time. She tore off her shorts and T-shirt and hopped in the shower. After scrubbing, she washed her hair and shaved, slowing down so she didn’t nick her ankles.

With a towel wrapped around her hair, she slapped Abby’s lemon verbena lotion on her legs and arms. Then she blew her hair dry. She grabbed a handful of her strawberry-blonde curls. What do I do with this mop?

Instead of making a decision, she dashed on makeup. Then she pulled on a strapless bra and underwear, wishing she’d picked a dress with straps.

“Are you ready?” Dolley called out from the living room.

“Everything but my hair.”

Her sister leaned against the bathroom doorway. “You might want to put on clothes, too.”

“My shorts?” Bess joked.

“No.” Her sister moved behind her. “Let’s put your hair up.”

“Or I could leave it down.”

Dolley grabbed a brush and binder, and tugged it through Bess’s hair. “No, up. You have a nice neck and you’re almost tan.”

“You mean my freckles are blending together.” It was the best they could hope for in a family of redheads.

Dolley pinned and hummed, spraying Bess’s hair with more hair spray than she’d used in a year. Then she pulled out sections of hair and curled them.

“Is Abby ready?” Bess craned her neck to see what Dolley was doing.

“Stop moving, and yes. She’s in the kitchen, but she’s dressed.”

“I have to check how Molly’s doing in the ballroom.” Bess tapped the counter. “Are you done?”

“Almost. Jeez.” Dolley wrapped another strand of hair around the curling iron.

“I don’t have to look great. It’s Mamma’s day.”

“It won’t hurt you to dress up. There might be good-looking men at the wedding.”

Daniel would be attending. Bess swallowed. Maybe the dress would make him see what he’d tossed aside. It would be nice to have him regret what had happened between them.

Dolley stepped away and handed her a mirror. “I’m awesome.”

Bess blinked. Her hair was all gentle swirls and soft curls around her face. “It’s...amazing.”

“I’m a genius. Hang on.” Dolley pushed her back onto the vanity chair. She rummaged in Bess’s makeup bag. “Don’t you own eyeliner?”

“No.”

Dolley pulled open Abby’s perfectly organized makeup drawer. “Close your eyes.”

“Eyeliner makes me look like a raccoon.” But Bess closed her eyes.

“Sit still.” Dolley worked on her eyes, adding more eye shadow along with the liner. “There.”

Bess blinked, worried she would cry and muss Dolley’s work. “I look...” Like someone else. Her eyes were bigger, greener. “I bow to your superior hair and makeup skills.”

“You should.” Dolley hit her hair with another spritz of hair spray. “Get dressed.”

Bess pulled on a chiffon dress similar to the ones her sisters wore. Abby and Dolley had convinced her to wear the strapless design. Slipping on sparkly heels, she tugged on the short skirt. “Well?”

Dolley whistled. “You’re hot. Let’s go help Mamma.”

They headed to the Mamie Eisenhower room in the main house. Bess knocked.

Abby, wearing the same yellow dress but with straps, opened the door. “Finally. Come see how pretty Mamma looks.”

Mamma’s golden-red hair gleamed and her blue eyes sparkled. The worry from years of struggling with Fitzgerald House no longer marred her beautiful face. Her tea-length ivory dress with a full skirt made her look so young.

Bess pinned a spray of white dendrobium orchids on the side of Mamma’s hair. “You’re gorgeous.”

“I feel foolish.” Mamma twisted her hands until Bess caught one and held it. “We should have gone to the courthouse and skipped the folderol.”

“Absolutely not,” Dolley protested. “Martin better be good to you, or he’ll answer to us.”

“He’s very good to me.” Her mother blushed. “But at my age, I shouldn’t be planning such a wingding.”

“Nonsense, you have daughters in the business.” Bess kissed her cheek. “I need to check the ballroom.”

“Wait.” Abby popped the cork on a champagne bottle. “We’re celebrating before everything gets crazy.”

Bess held glasses while Abby poured. Dolley moved around the room, taking pictures of the bride.

“Is that a new camera?” Abby tried to hand Dolley a glass.

“I bought it on eBay for a steal.” She flashed the hefty camera at them.

Bess waved a hand around the group. “Set it up so we can all be in the picture.”

Dolley did, then joined the family.

“To you, Mamma.” Bess raised her glass. “Be happy.”

Mamma’s eyes filled with tears. She held up her glass. “To my girls. May you all find the happiness I’ve found.”

They touched their glasses and chimes rang out. “The Fitzgeralds.” The flash went off as they laughed.

The champagne fizzed on Bess’s tongue. “Ooh, this is nice.”

“It should be.” Abby grinned. “Gray bought a couple of special bottles.”

Bess tipped the bottle to read the label. “Dom Pérignon?” She took another sip and let it slide down. She could drink this all day. “I love it.”

“First Gray sends his family’s plane to pick us up and now this.” Mamma held up her champagne. “Private jets and drinking stars. This is the life.”

They laughed and drank until there was a knock. Marion, the B and B’s head of housekeeping, stepped in. Her dress was a shimmery copper and set off her beautiful brown skin.

“You look stunning.” Mamma hurried over and gave Marion a hug.

“There’s a glass for you, too.” Abby filled a final glass.

“We’ll have to hurry, Judge Geneva’s here.” But Marion tipped her glass to Mamma. “I’m happy for you.”

Mamma beamed. “Thank you.”

“Now we need your daughters to get married.” Marion sipped. “There should be babies here.”

Marion and Mamma linked arms and looked over at them.

Abby raised her hand. The diamond on her finger twinkled. “I’m getting there.”

Bess and Dolley looked at each other and shook their heads.

“I’m too busy to date.” Bess shrugged.

Dolley laughed. “I’m having too much fun.”

“You should never be too busy for love.” Mamma’s eyes filled. “It’s worth the risk.”

Bess wasn’t interested in taking risks, at least not for love.

“No tearing up.” Abby took Mamma’s hands. “We’ll all cry.”

They finished their champagne and hustled Mamma to the library. Bess handed small spider-mum-and-orchid bouquets to her sisters and a larger one to Mamma.

“I should check the ballroom.” Bess headed to the door.

Another knock. Gray stuck his head in and whistled. “You all look beautiful.” He came over and took Mamma’s hands. “You are a stunning bride.”

Mamma blushed.

“Are you ready?” he asked.

Mamma straightened her shoulders. “Yes.”

Gray opened the library doors to the courtyard.

White chairs fanned out from the arbor where Bess had intertwined bright yellow spider mums with more dendrobium orchids. The gardens edging the patio danced with late-summer color. White daisies nodded to black-eyed Susans. Bright zinnias and marigolds added sparks of color against lush green foliage and her small palm trees. The trio of August Beauty gardenias lived up to their name. Petunias in yellows, reds and pinks, along with vines of sweet peas and kidney weed, cascaded from tall bronze pots.

The judge, Martin and his sons took their places. The guests quieted. The fountain splashed in the background while a harpist played “Ode to Joy” accompanied by twittering birds.

Dolley glided down the white satin aisle first.

Bess kissed her mother’s cheek. “I love you, Mamma.”

“I love you, too.”

Bess moved down the aisle next, smiling. Daniel’s parents, Samuel and Debbie Forester, sat next to each other. Nathan, Daniel’s twin brother, waved. Daniel nodded. No smile. What a surprise.

Resentment surged through her like a pulsing sprinkler. Not today. Today was Mamma’s day. She took her place next to Dolley and waited for Abby to come down the aisle.

Finally, Mamma stepped out of the library. Everyone stood. Bess’s eyes filled.

Mamma glowed as she walked toward Martin. He held out his hands for her, love lighting his face. Underneath the arbor, Mamma and Martin vowed to love one another. A butterfly landed on top of the trellis as they kissed.

Bess’s tears broke free.

Abby handed her a tissue.

To the intimate group of witnesses, the judge said, “I’m pleased to introduce Mr. and Mrs. Martin and Mamie Robbins.”

The guests surged to their feet, applauding.

“Mamma’s no longer a Fitzgerald.” Bess caught Abby’s and Dolley’s hands. Having her mother change her name seemed so final.

She and her sisters moved down the aisle behind the couple and hugged and kissed them.

Photos were taken. Congratulations called out. Bess headed to the stairs.

Mamma called, “Bess?”

“Do you need something, Mamma?”

“My daughters.”

“I was—” Bess pointed to the ballroom “—checking on Molly.”

“I’m sure everything is beautiful.” Mamma handed her a glass of champagne. “You’re done working for the day.”

Bess grimaced but took the glass. Mamma didn’t know how prophetic her words were.

More friends arrived, filling the courtyard with happy conversation. Servers passed through the expanding crowd, circulating Abby’s appetizers and glasses of champagne.

“Everything is beautiful.” Deb Forester gave Bess a warm hug. “Your gardens are stunning.”

“Thank you.”

Daniel raised his glass. “Nice dress.”

“Thanks.” Bess wanted to yank up the top after Daniel’s comment. In a crowd this large, she should have been able to avoid him.

“Let’s see what Bess has done with the ballroom.” Martin and Mamma led the guests up the exterior terrace stairs.

“Wait.” Bess used this as an excuse to escape Daniel. She had to check the room before she let Mamma walk in.

Bess sneaked in the door. Her hand pressed against her chest. She and Molly had created magic.

The fragrance of flowering citrus trees saturated the air. Twinkling fairy lights covered the branches and sheer toile bows draped from each corner of the room. Pale yellow linens with matching napkins covered the tables. Marion’s crew had made the chandeliers sparkle, and they threw off rainbows as the sunlight faded. On the tables, candles surrounded tall vases of yellow spider mums, yellow roses and glowing white orchids.

Molly was packing up a box. “Have fun tonight!”

“Thank you.” Bess took a deep breath and threw open the French doors.

Her mother walked into the room and turned in a circle, her mouth open.

Oh, shoot. Her mother hated it. “I’m sorry. I should have asked you what you wanted.”

“It’s...it’s...” Mamma hugged her tight. “Oh, Bess, it’s incredible.”

Bess hugged her back, relaxing into the embrace. It was amazing how good it felt to get a compliment from her mother.

A server came by with a tray of filled flutes. “Congratulations.”

Her mother and Martin greeted guests as they came through the receiving line.

Everything was going well until she sat down for dinner. The place card said she was sitting next to Daniel. She started to rearrange the cards, but she wasn’t quick enough.

A woodsy scent warned her Daniel stood next to her. He plucked the card from her fingers. “Are you moving me?”

Daniel’s broad shoulders filled out his dark gray suit perfectly. His golden hair curled at the collar of his crisp white shirt. Shouldn’t he look like a devil? Maybe have a big twirling mustache?

“Wouldn’t you rather sit by your brother?” Her face heated up. “You don’t see him very often.”

“No.” The word was curt.

“But he’s your twin.” She looked around to see where Nathan was sitting.

Daniel placed a hand on her shoulder. “I’d rather sit here.”

She blinked. “What if I make you do something—” she wiggled her hands “—crazy?”

“We can survive sitting together for an hour.” His tone was as dry as a houseplant no one had watered for a month. “I might even manage being around you for an entire evening.”

“Fine.” The only people who needed to be happy tonight were Mamma and Martin.

Daniel took his seat and a swig from his tumbler. “Right.”

She finished her champagne. It might be the only way to get through the night.

Daniel mumbled.

She couldn’t hear over the clinking of silverware and hum of the crowd. “What?”

He leaned closer. “The room looks...pretty.”

Hours of work and he called it pretty. “Thanks.”

“So do you.” This time his gaze dropped to her cleavage but jerked back up to her face. “You look—different.”

“Dolley did a makeover.”

He leaned over and sniffed her neck. “You smell different, too.”

Bess swallowed. He knew her scent? “Abby’s lotion.”

Daniel eyebrows slid together. “Ah.”

A server handed her another glass of champagne and she took a big gulp, not taking her eyes off Daniel. What was his game now? He stared at her as if he’d never seen her before.

“Your mom looks happy.” Daniel nodded toward the couple’s table.

“She is.” Bess grinned. She should slow down on the champagne, but it was Mamma’s wedding.

They talked through dinner. Daniel had the whole table laughing. As they worked their way through salads and entrées, she relaxed. It was as if she and Daniel were kids again, free to talk and laugh together. She stared at Daniel’s lips. His mouth was so damn sexy.

She grabbed another glass of champagne. Maybe he wasn’t such a jerk after all.

* * *

DANIEL WATCHED BESS whirl around the dance floor. Her cheeks were flushed a gorgeous peach color. She was knock-me-over beautiful. Always had been. And she’d always been too young for him. She made him do and feel things he shouldn’t. He needed to stay away from her.

But her smile—even when alcohol induced—was mesmerizing. It made him want to trace her lips and count the freckles dusting her nose.

Thoughts like that didn’t lead to good things. Around her, he forgot what was important. Even when she’d just been a kid and he was helping Pop at Fitzgerald House, he’d gotten in trouble for spending too much time with Bess. She’d had a crush on him, and it had been...nice. They’d get talking—and he’d forget his work.

Bess had once talked him into climbing the live oak over at Carleton House. They’d been high enough in the tree to see into the square. When Pop had found them up in the top branches, he’d nearly burst a gasket. Pop had lectured him all the way home for letting Bess climb so high. And then he hadn’t been allowed to watch TV for a month. Nathan had loved that.

She’d stared at his mouth earlier, and the temperature in the ballroom had jumped ten degrees. She was a distraction he didn’t need. Ever.

He stopped at the bar. Joints popped as he twisted his neck. “Jameson, please.”

Gray, Abby’s fiancé, joined him. “I got through the Carleton House bid. Looks great.”

“Good.” He and Pop had gone through it one more time before sending it off. “The carriage-house work is picking up.”

“I walked through the place before the girls corralled me into setting up for the wedding.” Gray tipped his tumbler at Daniel. “I can’t wait for the walls to go up.”

“Next week.”

The three sisters rushed over, laughing. Their reddish-gold hair lit the room better than the chandeliers.

“No talking business.” Abby tugged Gray toward the dance floor. “Bess, grab Daniel and make him dance.”

Daniel shook his head. Dancing with Bess would be like grabbing hold of a live wire. Stupid.

“Go on.” Dolley gave him a push. “You haven’t danced. There aren’t many eligible guys around.”

“You can’t keep up with me.” Bess wiggled her hips. “You’re too old.”

“Old?” He knocked back the rest of his whiskey and shook his head as the liquor burned a path to his stomach. He caught her hand. “Let’s see your moves, kid.”

Bess shimmied to the music as they joined other couples on the dance floor. She was willowy and gorgeous. And when she moved, her dress tightened against her breasts. Breasts that reminded him of one insane night.

The music shifted to a jazzy slow wail. He wasn’t about to hold Bess in his arms. He turned to leave the floor.

“Come on.” She caught his hand. Her hazel eyes sparkled with gold in the ballroom’s dim light. “You boasted you could be around me for an entire evening.”

He should run. Instead he stepped close and her hands slid around his neck. Like a jigsaw puzzle, her curves fit his angles.

He sucked in the heady scents of lemon, flowers and earth. This was a mistake, but he couldn’t pull away.

They were too close for a friendly dance. Close enough for him to feel her nipples, hard and firm under her dress. His leg slipped between hers.

She looked at him through half-closed eyes. “I hate you, you know.”

He exhaled. “I know.”

He didn’t want her to hate him. They’d just—made a mess of things ten years ago. Hell, he’d been in college. She’d only been seventeen.

The memory had his arousal easing off.

Ten years ago, he’d been grieving. Bess had caught him at Dora’s and invited him to a party, and they’d both gotten drunk.

After their disastrous night, he’d limited himself to two drinks in an evening.

The music ended and he cupped an arm under her elbow and led her off the floor.

“Dancing with me didn’t kill you, did it?” she teased.

Almost. “No.”

She reached for another full flute.

“Maybe you should slow down,” he suggested.

Her eyes shot green fire at him and she drained half the glass. “It’s my mother’s wedding.”

“Bess.”

She waved wildly and smacked his shoulder. “There’s Nathan.”

“He’s been here all night.” Daniel had kept his distance from his twin. Life was easier with Nathan in Atlanta.

“Hey, baby brother.” Nathan slung his arm over Bess’s shoulder.

Bess laughed. “You’re twins.”

“But I—” Nathan sketched a drunken bow “—am five minutes older. And a better dancer.”

Nathan shoved his drink at Daniel and pulled Bess onto the dance floor.

Bess and Nathan bumped, wiggled and twirled. Daniel hated watching them together.

He sipped the whiskey Nathan had handed him. Maybe drinking would make the night end.

* * *

BESS WAS PRETTY close to drunk. Yup. Her lips were tingly and she couldn’t stop smiling. Maybe Daniel was right. Maybe she should stop. She carefully set the champagne flute down. For once, she didn’t have to clean the ballroom. She spun, her hands in the air.

“Whoa there, little girl.” Samuel Forester caught her arm. “You’re making me dizzy.”

“My mamma got married.”

“I know.” Samuel chuckled. “I saw them.”

She let him lead her near the door.

“Daniel,” Samuel called.

Bess pouted. After dancing, Daniel had ignored her. Whenever Nathan danced with her, Daniel glared at them. She swore he’d looked hurt when she’d told him she hated him.

Naw. That would imply he had a heart.

“What do you need, Pop?” Daniel said.

“Are you heading back to your apartment?” Samuel said.

Daniel didn’t live in an apartment. His dad knew that. Bess stared at Daniel’s deep blue-and-purple tie. She liked the colors. And it looked perfect with his gray suit.

“Bess?” Daniel said loudly. “Are you staying here?”

“We’re all full up. Wedding guests are tucked in every room.”

The Forester men whispered.

“Can you drive?” Samuel asked her.

“Oh, no. I’m walking home.” She shook her head. “Nope, nope. Not safe to drive.”

“We know,” Daniel said. “And no, I’m not driving, either. I’ll walk her back and catch a cab home.”

Samuel gave her a hug. “Take aspirin before you head to bed tonight.”

As Samuel walked away, she saluted. “Aye, aye, sir.”

“Where are your shoes?” Daniel asked.

She looked at her feet and wiggled her glittery toes. “I don’t know.”

Daniel propped her against the wall. Other than the servers and cleaners, they were the last two people in the room.

“These yours?” Daniel held her pretty high heels.

She grinned. He was so darn handsome. Why did she hate him? “Those are mine. They sparkle.”

“Just like you.” He handed them to her.

She hooked her fingers into the straps. “I sparkle?”

“Yes.” He pointed to her shoes. “You need to wear them.”

She wrinkled her nose. “My feet hurt.”

He tugged her to the elevator. “Before we head out to the street, you need to put them on.”

She scowled. “Okay.”

He stopped at the kitchen door and knelt at her feet. “Shoes.”

“My prince,” she giggled. She put her hand on top of Daniel’s head and slipped her feet into her shoes. “Ouch.”

“Toughen up, Fitzgerald.” He guided her outside into her gardens.

She inhaled deeply. “I love the smell.”

“It smells like you,” he said.

Twirling again, she tipped her head back. “I love my gardens.”

She was dizzy by the time he took her arm. “Time to get you to bed.”

“Oh, promises, promises.”

The arm he’d slipped around her waist tightened. “Come on.”

Why couldn’t he be nice like this all the time?

Her heels clacked on the sidewalk. “It’s quiet.”

“It’s almost one thirty.”

She leaned into his chest and inhaled. She’d know his woody scent in the dark. “I didn’t think Savannah slept.”

His laugh rumbled under her cheek. “I think that’s New York.”

She hummed “New York, New York” as they walked another block. They cut through Columbia Square. She stumbled on the uneven pavement, pain zinging through her toes.

His fingers tightened around her waist.

She had to get these shoes off—now. She bent down.

He pulled her up. “You can’t walk barefoot.”

She stamped her foot. “Ow, ow, ow.”

She kicked the heels off and hopped to the fountain, stepping over the edge.

“What are you doing?” He glared, pointing at her shoes.

“Cooling my feet.” She kicked in the water and pointed at him. “Mamma said if we frowned, our faces would freeze like that.”

“Right.” He reached for her. “Out of there.”

She grabbed his hand with both of hers, but slipped backward.

Daniel stumbled forward under her weight. His shin smacked the fountain’s brick edge.

She let go of him and grabbed the ledge.

His body kept moving. He did a shuffle step a dancer would be proud to have in their repertoire, boogying too close to the fountain wall.

He was going to face-plant into the fountain.

She reached for him.

He rolled, his feet splashing into the water. Slumping on the fountain’s edge, he stared at his shoes.

“Oh, gracious.” Her hand covered her mouth.

Daniel cursed.

“I...I didn’t mean to pull you in with your shoes on.” She giggled.

“Damn it, Bess.” He stood, his lips set in a solid grim line.

“Daniel.” She backed up but didn’t move fast enough.

The world spun, and he threw her over his shoulder.

Her breath whooshed out. “Hey!”

“You’re going home.” He crouched and swept up her shoes.

“Put me down.” She wiggled and squirmed. When he didn’t stop walking, she pounded his back.

“Cut it out.”

Her stomach gurgled. “I don’t want to be sick.”

He swore again, but stopped. Sliding her body over his shoulder, he cradled her against his chest. “When will you think before you act?”

“When you learn to lighten up.” There wasn’t any heat behind her words.

He stared down at her. “I’m an adult.”

She smiled. “The water felt wonderful.”

He sighed. His shoes made squishing sounds as he carried her.

“I’m sorry you got wet.”

He grunted.

She looked at his chin. It was such a nice chin. And his lips were full and firm. He probably kissed even better than he had ten years ago. She touched his dimple. “I’m sorry.”

“What are you doing, Fitzgerald?” His voice was deeper than normal.

“Apologizing.” She sighed.

He lifted her higher and his hand pressed against her breast. “Sorry.”

“S’okay.” She kicked her feet. Had a guy ever carried her anywhere? She burrowed in closer. “Am I too heavy?”

He grunted again.

She leaned her head back to look at the Spanish moss in the trees. “I think Savannah wouldn’t be Savannah without the moss. And the flowers.”

“Savannah wouldn’t be Savannah without the architecture.”

“Spoken like a man who builds things.”

He juggled her body and opened the door. As he climbed the stairs, his breath came out in pants. He set her down in front of her door. “You had to pick the third floor.”

She waited for him to open the door. And waited.

“Key?” he asked.

She blinked. “My keys are at Abby’s.”

Daniel banged his head against the door.

“Don’t.” She grabbed his shoulders. She’d touched him more tonight than she had in the last ten years.

“Wait.” He dug his keys out of his pocket.

“You label your keys.” She stared at his key ring. Who did that? “With a label maker.”

“Be glad. This way I don’t have to search.”

He unlocked her door and pushed it open.

“My hero.” She fluttered her eyelashes. Since he’d carried her like Rhett Butler, she could give him a little Scarlett.

“Yeah, yeah. Get in there.” He pulled her inside and the door clicked behind her.

“No, really.” She took his hands, serious now. “Thank you for seeing me home.”

There was something hypnotic about his brown eyes. It was the gold flecks she only saw when she stood so close they shared the same air.

He slid his hands up to her shoulders. “Not a problem.”

She couldn’t rip her gaze away. When he stared at her mouth, her tongue touched her upper lip. A shiver raced through her body.

“Daniel?”

He stepped closer—or she did. The gold in his eyes darkened and disappeared.

She stood on her aching toes and kissed him.

CHAPTER THREE

After women, flowers are the most lovely thing God has given the world.

Christian Dior

DANIEL KISSED BESS BACK. She tasted of champagne and cake. He wanted to get closer—much, much closer.

He spun and backed her against the door. She hopped up and wrapped her long slim legs around his waist.

“Yes.” She fused their mouths together.

Her lemony perfume enticed him to do things he shouldn’t. Kissing Bess was irresponsible, but he couldn’t stop. Pins clinked on the floor as he freed her hair. He buried his fingers in her coppery curls and meshed their mouths together, sucking at her sweet tongue. Her firm breasts were magnets for his hands and mouth, but her bra thwarted him.

“Pull me away from the door,” she begged.

He did.

Bess unsnapped her bra and flung it aside. She rolled her hips against his. “Oh, that feels good.”

His erection ignored the voice in his head shouting stop. He anchored her against the door with his hips and one hand.

“Touch me.” She grabbed his free hand and placed it on her breast.

They were spinning out of control. He had Bess up against a door. Bess. He hadn’t had so much to drink that he couldn’t recognize a bad idea when it hit him like a two-by-four. She hated him.

Instead of stopping, he lifted her higher, sucking a tight nipple into his mouth. It tasted tangy just like her.

“Yes.” She arched back and her head thunked against the wood.

Supporting her with a forearm, he freed his hand and pinched her other nipple. The skirt of her dress rolled up to her waist. He shifted and their groins rubbed together.

Her fingers dived into his hair, holding him in place. Sweet, tortured sounds rumbled in her chest.

He switched from one breast to the other. There were reasons he stayed away from Bess, good reasons, but he couldn’t remember a single one. He wanted to take her right here in the doorway.

Bess ran her teeth along his ear. “You’re overdressed.”

Heat streamed through him. He let her body slide partway down his. “We can fix that.” His voice sounded as if he’d swallowed gravel.

Her fingers worked on his tie. She tugged and it went flying. She pushed off his jacket as he juggled her body and worked his shirt buttons free.

His fingers ran up her thigh, brushing against a tiny slip of silk. His erection surged. He could push the silk aside and be in her in a slick second, but he was missing something. “Condom.”

Her head jerked up. “Bedroom.”

They stumbled down the hallway, his hands cradling her butt, her legs wrapped around his hips.

Clothes covered the bed. He dropped her in the middle and followed her down. His only goal was getting inside her hot body.

“Unzip me.” She rolled to her side. “Please.”

Daniel found the tab and dragged it down, kissing every inch of the lemony skin he uncovered. By the time he’d tugged the zip free, Bess squirmed under his lips.

He backed away. She wiggled out of the dress and the slip of yellow between her legs.

The last time they’d been together, he’d been drunk. Not drunk enough to keep him from performing—poorly—but enough to forget most of the details. No way would he forget tonight.

She hopped on the bed. “Get your clothes off. You’re behind.”

She pushed his shirt off his chest, imprisoning his arms.

“I can’t get my pants off like this,” he complained.

“Let me.” She tugged on his belt buckle, flipped the fly button open and ran the zipper over his straining erection. Her fingers reached in, wrapping around him like a vise.

His groan echoed in the dark room. He needed to take control or this would be over too soon. There was a rip and his shirt loosened enough to get one hand out.

He kissed her, rolling her underneath him. He was in charge now.

“Hey.”

He pushed off his wet pants and underwear, everything tangling on his soggy shoes. He scrambled off the bed, sliding to the floor in a tangled heap. “Find a condom,” he called up, separating his pants from his wet shoes.

A drawer screeched. Foil crinkled.

He vaulted back onto the bed, snatched the condom from her fingers and sheathed himself.

She cradled him between her legs.

Their lips came together in a deep, penetrating kiss. His hands wrapped around her hips, tugging her up. She guided him inside and he slid home.

Sparks flashed behind his closed eyelids. His breath bellowed. He heard her small moans. Their bodies fit together like a dovetail joint. Perfect.

“You feel...amazing.” Too amazing. He couldn’t slow down, sliding faster and faster in and out of her incredible body. Panic built as his control slipped. Each thrust drove him to the edge of madness.

“Ooh.” Bess tilted her hips, wrapping a leg around him. “I’m so close.”

He slid deeper, unable to stop. Before he lost his last shred of control, he had to give her a release. Gritting his teeth, he reached between them and touched her.

She drove against him, her green eyes locked on his. Her fingers clawed his back and she came apart.

Her scream took him over the edge. He closed his eyes, slamming home once more, and the bed bounced against the wall. His arms shook as her body squeezed around him.

He collapsed. Their chests rose and fell together in air-sucking gasps.

It had never been like this. Only one other time had he been so out of control...and so satisfied. It had been with Bess. That time, he hadn’t waited for her orgasm.

He rolled off her, embarrassed by the memory.

“Oh, my.” She curled into his side. “That was worth waiting ten years.”

Shit.

He covered his eyes with his arm, gathering the strength to take care of the condom. Rolling out of bed, he staggered to the bathroom.

Bloodshot eyes stared at him from the mirror. He never drank more than two drinks. He’d had, what—three whiskeys, wine with dinner and an unknown quantity of champagne?

This was what happened when he was around Bess. He acted stupid—lost control.

He moved back into the bedroom and gathered his clothes.

She opened her eyes, looking rumpled and gorgeous. “It’s late. Don’t go.”

He sat on the end of the bed. Numb.

She patted the mattress. “Stay with me.”

This was all wrong. He should go. But his body refused. “Sure.”

After folding his clothes, he set them on an armchair. Sliding into bed, he lay down. His muscles were as tight as a running sail.

She rolled and pillowed her head on his chest.

He shouldn’t be here.

“Good night,” she whispered.

He wrapped an arm around her, and she snuggled deeper. He’d straighten out this mess—tomorrow.

* * *

BESS GRABBED HER HEAD. Pain hammered behind her eyes. Samuel had warned her to take aspirin last night, hadn’t he? The night was a blur. She rolled and the sheet slid across her naked body. Naked?

Her leg brushed a hairy leg. No.

Blond hair sparkled in the dappled sunlight. Daniel. Her heart pounded a little harder. Stubble covered his jaw, a darker shade of blond than his hair. Luckily, he was still asleep.

She closed her eyes. Not again.

The night flooded back to her. Walking with Daniel. The fountain. Daniel carrying her home. All those glorious muscles. No key. Daniel. Sex. Hot, mind-blowing sex. Life-changing sex. Why did this all have to be with Daniel?

She held her aching head. Lord, she wasn’t seventeen and foolish anymore. Last night was the worst thing she could have done.

She’d slept with the man who’d tossed her aside as if she were a dying plant. Her breath came out in ragged gasps. Ten years ago, she’d pleaded with him to give her a chance. He’d said he could never be with someone like her. Could never stand worrying about what she would do next.

Yet last night, she’d begged him to touch her. Begged him to stay.

Stupid. Stupid. Stupid.

She wiggled away from him, trying to escape.

A heavy hand dropped on her hip and pulled her flush with his aroused body. “G’morning.”

She shoved his arm away.

He blinked and shifted. So did the covers. “Oh, shit.”

She grabbed the sheet, tucking it under her arms.

Daniel flopped onto his back. “This shouldn’t have happened.”

His words were like a thorn, catching her by surprise. She slithered to a sitting position. “Good morning to you.”

The air crackled with enough tension to set off a lightning storm.

He shook his head. “We shouldn’t have slept together.”

“But we did.” She couldn’t remember anyone turning her on as much as Daniel had. Why did it have to be him? Forbidden fruit, much?

Daniel levered his toned body up and braced his back against her headboard. His fingers dug into his hair. “We were drunk.”

The thorn burrowed deeper. She hadn’t expected an undying vow of love—not from Daniel. But he could at least acknowledge the sparks between them.

“So...” She couldn’t stand the silence. “We hooked up at a wedding.” She tried to keep it airy. Tried to push away the hurt. “Big deal. We responded to...” She waved her hand between them.

“I don’t hook up with people I’ve known all my life.” His eyelids shuttered his brown eyes. His cold, emotionless voice lashed out at her. “I never hook up.”

“You think I do?” she choked out.

“No.” He reached out to her.

She slapped his hand away, holding on to her anger to keep back the tears. “At least this time I wasn’t a virgin.”

“Did you have to bring that up?” He closed his eyes and let out a massive sigh. “You make me crazy. You’re always out of control.”

“Out of control?” She threw up a hand and then had to grab the slipping sheet. “I’m not out of control.”

He held up his hand. The scar between his thumb and forefinger stood out, a white stripe on his tan skin.

“That wasn’t my fault.” She chewed her lip.

“How can you say that?” He leaned forward. “You took old windowpanes to make some sort of greenhouse. You were what? Thirteen?”

“Twelve.” She winced. “And it was working just fine until you got involved.”

“Pop and your mother were worried the glass would fall and slice your head off.” He threw up the scarred hand and slapped it against the bed. “They made me take it apart, and I was the one who got hurt.”

“Everything was fine.” Or would have been if Daniel had just left her homemade greenhouse alone.

He rolled his eyes. “How about when you followed me and my date to Forsythe Park?”

She swallowed. “I was taking a walk.”

“You were spying.”

“I was fourteen.” She raised her eyebrows. “And you shouldn’t have had your hand on her boob.”

“You should have stayed away from me. But you just couldn’t help butting in. You lied and said my mother was looking for me.” He inhaled. “Chaos surrounds you. You can’t control your impulses.”

“Control my impulses?” She was controlling them right now. He didn’t know how much she wanted to punch him in the nose.

“I grew up in chaos.” He grabbed his pants and jerked them on. “Every time I turned around, Nathan was creating trouble or weaseling out of trouble. I can’t live like that.”

“Control. That’s you to a T.” She knelt on the mattress facing him, the sheet wrapped around her body. “At least you had some control last night. This time I had an orgasm.”

He ripped a hand through his hair. “Do you even remember yanking me into a fountain?”

“And wet shoes forced you to have sex with me?” She waved a hand over the neutral zone between their bodies. She should keep her mouth shut, but this was humiliating. “Having sex was my fault?”

“Not this time.” He pulled on his shirt, letting the words sink in.

“Sure. I seduced you when we were young, but you hardly pushed me away then, or last night.”

“I was drunk.”

“Do you realize how stupid you sound?” She’d changed, but Daniel couldn’t or didn’t want to see that.

“It’s never happening again. We’ll...just stay away from each other.”

“Fine with me.” She tucked the sheet even higher around her chest. “I wouldn’t sleep with you if we were the last two people on an island. I wouldn’t sleep with you if you begged me next time.”

“Great.”

The thorn wedged itself in her chest, piercing her heart. “Get out.”

* * *

AFTER THE WEDDING BRUNCH, everyone waved Mamma and Martin off in front of Fitzgerald House.

Moving into the entryway, Bess asked her sisters, “Do you have fifteen minutes?”

“Sure,” Dolley said.

“What’s up?” Abby asked as they headed to the kitchen’s sitting area with a fresh pot of tea.

Stalling, Bess added milk to her mug before pouring her tea. She hated this. “Daniel’s turning my apartment into a condo.”

As she said the bastard’s name, her face heated.

Dolley rocked back in the love seat, her mug paused next to her lips. “Really?”

“I’ve checked with a couple of mortgage companies, but I don’t qualify for a large enough loan.” Bess took a deep breath. “Cade laid me off last week.” Her words rattled out.

“What?” Dolley came out of her chair.

“Cade let me go. His son has his degree now. He’s not very good, but there isn’t enough business for two landscape architects.”

“Cade’s an idiot,” Dolley said.

Abby put her hand on Bess’s arm. “What can we do?”

“I’ll find another job.” She hoped. “This gives me the time to concentrate on Carleton House.”

“Perfect.” Abby’s green eyes held too much sympathy.

Bess didn’t want anyone feeling sorry for her.

“It’s wrong.” Dolley frowned. “You lose both your job and your apartment. How can Daniel do that to you?”

“It’s not Daniel’s fault.” Bess hated defending a man who’d humiliated her—twice. Well, three times now, if she counted the two times ten years ago. God, she was a fool.

Men always broke her heart. Why had she thought her job would be different? She rubbed her temple, relieved her headache had eased. “Forester Construction needs the money to cover Carleton House’s operating expenses.”

Abby touched her hand. “For us.”

Dolley tugged on her red curls. “That sucks.”

“I can’t blame them,” Bess said.

Abby pulled her hand away from her mouth. Bess hadn’t noticed she’d been chewing her nails.

“When do you have to move?” Dolley asked.

“Daniel’s letting me stay until they have a purchase agreement on my place, but only if I move my plants. Gray’s lending me his truck so I can move them into the sunroom and parlors.” She didn’t want or need Daniel’s help.

“I’ll help,” Dolley said.

“Thanks.” Her fingers sank into the arm of her chair. “I love my apartment.”

“Once Gray and I move into the Carleton carriage house, you’ll move into the Fitzgerald carriage house,” Abby said.

“Maybe.” Tears stung her eyes. She hated the idea of moving home.

“What about a job?” Dolley asked.

“I’ve updated my résumé and sent it out.” She rolled her shoulders, trying to ease the ache there. Fall was not the time to be looking for a job in her industry.

“You’re an artist.” Abby’s face was fierce. “Anyone would be lucky to have you work for them.”

“Thanks.” Bess eyes misted over. “Until I get another job, I’ll push hard on the Carleton House gardens.”

“Perfect.” Abby rubbed Bess’s arm. “There’s so much work. I’ve worried how you would get everything done.”

Dolley tipped her head. “We’ll increase your draw.”

“Why?” Bess frowned. “We’re an equal partnership. I shouldn’t be treated differently.”

“Dolley’s right.” Abby raised her hands. “We aren’t equal. I’ve always had a different draw because I’m full-time. You’ll be working full time.”

“I guess that could work.” But it felt like a handout to Bess.

“I have an idea.” Abby snapped her fingers. “You can be the liaison between Samuel, Gray and us on Carleton House.”

“That’s a great idea.” Dolley leaned forward. “When you get another job, we’ll work something else out.”

Bess tapped her lip. Being involved with the construction side would be fun. “I’d love to work with Samuel.”

“Excellent.” Abby’s strawberry-blonde ponytail bounced as she nodded. “You’ll make Carleton House shine.”

“Thank you.” She swallowed. Her sisters were the best. “I had one other idea.”

“What?” Abby asked.

“There’s a foundation for Carleton House’s greenhouse on the property. Instead of tearing it out, I think we should rebuild it.”

Dolley frowned. “Will it be expensive?”

“I’ll get the costs.” Bess sat forward. “I could grow more of the B and B’s flowers and reduce our decorating budget. I’d make orchids the B and B’s signature flower.”

Dolley frowned.

Abby tugged on her ear. Not a good sign. “I like the idea, but we need to get Carleton House finished so we can open the rooms.”

“I think we should give it a try.” Bess looked over at Dolley, hoping for support.

“Gather the costs,” Dolley said. “But we shouldn’t add more to our plans than we’ve already committed.”

Bess tried not to sigh. A greenhouse was a great idea. But she didn’t want to fight with her sisters.

She would gather the information and hope the numbers proved her point. Losing her home and job and being stupid enough to sleep with Daniel Forester was enough humiliation for now.

* * *

TUESDAY MORNING, BESS walked into Fitzgerald House’s kitchen, eager to sit in on the first Carleton House renovation meeting. She’d always envied Abby spending so much time with Samuel.

When Bess was eight, Mamma had started turning their home into a B and B. Samuel had always been around. It had taken almost twenty years to finish all the rooms, and in that time he’d become a fixture in the house and the families had become close friends. The sisters thought of him as their surrogate dad, especially since he always called them his girls.

Of course, she’d followed Daniel around for the first nine years and then ignored him for the next ten.

Samuel sat at the head of the table, looking at blueprints. Abby and Gray were next to each other, their shoulders touching. Filling out the table were Daniel and Nathan.

“Am I late?” she asked.

“We were early.” Samuel waved her over.

“Bess, you look gorgeous.” Nathan stood and gave her a hug.

“You’re still home?” she asked.

Nathan squeezed her shoulders. “For a few more days.”

Daniel called, “We’re working here.”

“Let the girl go,” Samuel added.

Bess hurried over, miffed that they’d started without her. She sat across from Daniel and stared at the blueprints. Better than looking the jerk in the face. “What did I miss?”

“We’re walking through the architect’s plans,” Abby said.

“Bess will represent the sisters, Samuel.” Gray patted her hand.

Samuel nodded. “Good choice.”

Heat moved across Bess’s face.

Daniel frowned. “Abby, you’re on-site.”

“I’ll be on-site.” Bess avoided his piercing brown gaze.

“I don’t understand.” Daniel slid back in his chair and crossed his arms. Muscles she’d hung on to three nights ago bulged under his T-shirt.

“I’m working full-time on Carleton House,” Bess said.

“But you work at King’s Gardens.”

Why couldn’t Daniel let it alone? “Not anymore.”

Daniel’s mouth dropped open. Fly catcher, Mamma would say.

“Great.” Samuel flipped to the blueprint of the basement. “Let’s get to it.”

They walked through each floor. Bess took notes of things she wanted to change. She would discuss them with Abby and Dolley—later.

“Any reason I can’t work on the gardens?” she asked as they looked at the exterior prints.

Samuel rubbed his neck. “Give me the quick and dirty of what you’re planning.”

“I’ll take down this wall.” She pointed at the exterior layout. “And reuse the flagstone for walkways and patios.”

“Will you need our help with the wall?” Daniel asked.

She glanced at him and looked away. “Maybe.”

“Okay.” Daniel made a note.

Gray also made a note.

Jeez, everyone needed to be included on work-plan issues. Something to remember.

“I’m building raised beds. I’ll add more hedges. Interesting shrubs here and here. I’m thinking about a fire pit, or maybe a fireplace. Or pizza oven.” Bess sketched on her pad. “I haven’t decided what to do around the carriage house or the front of the house.”

Abby’s hand shot up. “I vote for a pizza oven.”

Gray pulled her hand down and laced their fingers together. “Will you need help with any of those options?”

“If we go with a fireplace, I might need a strong back or two. Otherwise I’ve built the others.”

“I still vote for the pizza oven.” Abby tapped her finger on the plan.

“Add it in,” Gray said.

Daniel nodded.

“Do these plans work?” Samuel asked.

Abby opened her mouth to answer, but Bess interrupted. She was in charge. “I’d like a day to look at them in depth and discuss with my sisters.”

Daniel frowned.

She raised her eyebrows.

“We’re hoping to have the first-and second-floor rooms available by early February,” Abby said.

“In anticipation of Saint Patrick’s Day?” Daniel asked.

“No.” Abby and Gray grinned at each other.

“Wedding guests,” Abby added.

Bess smiled and sighed. “You picked a date.”

“The second weekend of February.” Gray swept a finger along Abby’s cheekbone. Her sister’s eyes sparkled.

Bess’s chest tightened. What would it be like to want to spend the rest of her life with someone?

It wouldn’t happen to her. If she loved something, she lost it.

“The ballroom wasn’t booked. Mamma’s on board.” Abby’s grin lit up the room. “We’re getting married.”

Nathan slapped Gray on the back. “You’re a lucky man.”

Gray nodded. “The luckiest.”

“I’m happy for you.” Samuel took Abby’s hand. “We’ll complete everything by the end of January.”

Daniel’s jaw muscles flexed. He made notes on his tablet-size phone without commenting.

“One other thing.” Samuel pushed back a shock of white hair.

Bess frowned. Samuel looked pale under his tan.

“Daniel will be taking lead on this project,” Samuel said.

Daniel’s mouth hung open. “But—”

No! “I wanted to work with you, Samuel.” Bess’s stomach twisted. Daniel couldn’t be in charge of this project.

“Daniel’s the best person to handle large projects like these.” Samuel nodded to his son. “It doesn’t mean I won’t be around.”

“Bess, let me know when you’re ready to finalize the blueprints. Soon.” Daniel scowled.

She wanted to scream. Instead, she affected a businesslike tone. “Absolutely.”

Chairs scraped against the tile as everyone said goodbye.

Three days ago she’d slept with him. After he’d humiliated her, she’d thrown him out of her apartment. Panic had her breath backing up in her chest. How would they work together?

CHAPTER FOUR

The Earth laughs in flowers.

Ralph Waldo Emerson

WHAT THE HELL just happened? Daniel followed his father and Nathan out of Fitzgerald House. Pop had never talked about him taking point on the restoration. The announcement had floored him. He’d tried not to show his shock in front of their clients, even if they were friends. And a woman he’d slept with—twice.

This sucked. He and Bess had to work together. Didn’t the sisters know how reckless Bess was? He could spout example after example. How could they trust her with such a massive project?

He’d have to be extravigilant to keep everything on track. But first he had to find out why Pop had dropped this project on him.

“Why am I managing Carleton House?” Daniel spit out. “What’s going on?”

“I’m wondering the same thing.” Nathan crossed his arms.

Pop leaned against his truck. “Doc’s trying to figure out why I’m so tired.”

“You’re sick?” Nathan’s voice squeaked as if he was going through puberty.

“Your mom made me go in. Doc Kramer drew a couple of gallons of blood and is running tests.” He ran his fingers through his hair. “Daniel, you’re great at managing big projects. Better than me.”

Nathan shot Daniel a cutting glance. His brother hated when he received any praise from Mom and Pop.

“I don’t mind managing the project.” Other than the fact he’d have to work with Bess. “It’s learning about it in the meeting.”

“Sorry. I came straight from the doctor’s office. Your mom made me promise to take things easy until we know what’s up.”

“What does Doc Kramer think is wrong?” Daniel asked.

“Nothing yet. Just acting like a bunch of vampires.” Pop clicked his door open. “You keep my girls happy.”

“I will.” Although keeping Bess happy would require jumping in the Wilmington with an anchor chained to his foot.

Nathan left with their father.

Daniel slumped against his truck. Pop was just tired. They’d been busy and Pop had made a big push to get Fitzgerald House done before Mamie’s wedding.

Daniel scrubbed his hand over his face. He had work to do. Then he’d design a system to manage the projects filling his plate.

Pulling out his phone, he checked the day’s tasks. He ran his finger through Meet at Fitzgerald House, striking through the text. Done. He skipped ahead two days and added Contact Bess re: Final Drawings CH.

Time to work on the carriage house. Later he would swing by a couple of projects and check in with the job leads.

With the blueprints and his tool belt in hand, he headed to the gate between Fitzgerald and Carleton Houses. As he entered the carriage house, the calming scent of fresh-cut wood greeted him. A saw screeched as Quint trimmed a stud.

The renovation was coming together. He let out a breath. This was his area of expertise, repurposing old buildings to be useful again.

Quint pushed his safety glasses to the top of his head and shut off the saw. “Meeting done?”

“Yup.”

“When do we start on the main house?”

Daniel moved with Quint, nailing the stud into the framing. “Hopefully, next week.” If Bess got back to him with her changes.

He strapped on his tool belt and began framing in the stairs to the second floor, tricky because Gray and Abby had chosen a curved central stairway. If he’d designed the staircase, everything would have been clean right angles, but he wasn’t the client.

He worked until his phone buzzed. Time to check on the Tybee crew. He stood by his car, unstrapping his tool belt.

The gate between the two properties jangled. The sisters came through, their fiery heads tucked together. Abby elbowed Dolley. Bess tipped back her head and laughed, a clear, sweet sound.

Seeing Bess made his mouth water. He could still taste her kisses—champagne and cake. Her breasts bounced as she walked toward him, and his fingers flexed. He’d had his hands and mouth all over her silky skin.

These thoughts had to stop. They had to work together.

His tool belt clanged as he tossed it in the truck bed.

Bess’s head popped up. Her grin withered on her face.

“Been touring Carleton House?” he asked, hands on his hips.

“Yes.” Bess stopped in the parking area. Abby and Dolley waved and headed into the kitchen. “I’ll get the changes back to you tomorrow.”

He opened his door. “What time?”

“Oh. Um.”

He pulled out his phone. “Ten suit you?”

“Sure.”

“I’ll meet you at the house.”

“Good.”

A couple of B and B guests wandered into the courtyard. By the fountain, the man pulled the woman into an intense kiss. Daniel turned his back on the pair.

Bess cleared her throat. Her cheeks were flushed. “Did you...know your father wanted you to manage Carleton House?”

“Why?” He moved to a table shaded by a palm.

“Your expression. It went...well, let’s say they could have chiseled your face on Mount Rushmore.”

“That obvious, huh?”

She sat. “So you didn’t know.”

What should he tell her? “Apparently, Pop hasn’t been feeling well.”

“Oh, no.” She touched his arm. “What’s wrong?”

He wished he knew. “He’s tired.”

“He’ll be fine.” She chewed on her bottom lip.

Heat shot through his groin. He’d nibbled on that lip. “Yeah.”

She stared at her hand on his arm and snatched it away. “Can we do this?”

He rested his fists on the table. “Work together?”

She raised an eyebrow.

“We’ve got the same goal,” he said.

She nodded, her ponytail bouncing. “Opening Carleton House by the beginning of February.”

“I’ll make it happen. I don’t want Pop worrying.” He took a deep breath. “I need you to—behave. I don’t have time for any of your shenanigans.”

Her head snapped up. “Behave? Shenanigans?”

“You know what I mean.” He waved a hand at her.

“I don’t.” Flashing green eyes glared at him.

“The stupid pranks you pull.”

“I’m not a teen. I’m a professional.” She straightened. “I outgrew pranks years ago.”

He didn’t believe her. “Then how did we end up in bed together?”

Her eyes went wide. “You think that was my fault?”

He shrugged. “If you hadn’t hopped into the fountain, I wouldn’t have carried you home.” And been turned on by all her curves and hair and legs.

“You are delusional.” She started to leave and stopped. Her chest moved up and down in a big sigh. “Let me know if there is anything my sisters and I can do to help your dad.”

“Keeping on top of the Carleton House timelines would be a good start.”

“I’ll do my part.” She grabbed her blueprints and bag. “You do yours and maybe we’ll get through this.”

She headed to Fitzgerald House. Her body was long, muscled and gorgeous. He ripped his gaze away and headed to his truck. Ogling Bess wouldn’t get his work done. Admiring Bess’s strong body wasn’t the problem. It was the out-of-control feelings that went along with her craziness.

A childhood spent waiting for Nathan’s next catastrophe had taught him to stay away from situations he couldn’t control. Bess was one of those situations.

He rubbed his hand on his neck. Only for Pop and Forester Construction would he work the next five months with Bess.

* * *

BESS WHIPPED HER hair into a ponytail, grabbed another binder and wrapped the mass into a bun. She was ten minutes early for her meeting with Daniel. The ass. Thinking she would pull pranks. She wasn’t a lovesick teen anymore. She wasn’t trying to get his attention—at all.

The Carleton House kitchen door slammed. Bess straightened. She could do this. She could work with Daniel. All it would take was a lobotomy. Or maybe Daniel could get a personality transplant.

“Hey.” Daniel nodded. His brown eyes did a hit-and-run with hers.

Right. Hard to believe they’d ever gotten naked with each other.

Bess got down to business. “How do you want me to walk through our changes?”

Daniel blinked. “Show me what you want.”

She led the way to the dining room. “We’d like a pass-through between the butler’s pantry and the dining room.”

Daniel knocked on the wall and checked out the room from the pantry. He came back. “Okay.”

He made notes on his copy of blueprints.

“Here are the notes I worked up.” Bess held out a copy.

“This will help.” He moved closer.

She caught a whiff of his woodsy aftershave. Like Pavlov’s dog, her body flashed with unwelcome heat. Thrusting the paper at him, she hurried to the library.

His footsteps echoed behind hers.

At the exterior wall that looked out on the backyard, she waved her hands at a tall window. “We’d like double French doors here.”

Daniel moved around the room. He shook his head. “That’s a lot of structure work. Why not change this window—” he pointed “—and this into single doors? We’d make the doors as tall as the current windows, and the lines from outside will match.”

She frowned. “Double doors would be elegant.” And it would bring the garden into the room.

“But you’ll change the lines from the outside. You want the height of the windows and doors to stay the same and keep the room’s symmetry inside and out.”

She chewed on her thumbnail. “Could each window be changed into a door?”

He examined all four windows.

“For balance I’d suggest two doors.” He pointed. “One on each side of the room.”

Bess pulled out another set of sketches and set them on a library shelf.

He leaned close. His breath made the hair escaping her bun dance on her neck. “Did someone else do architectural sketches?”

“These are my garden plans.” She’d sketched the combined Fitzgerald and Carleton House courtyards. “You’d recommend the doors be here—” she drew a circle “—and here?”

He took her pencil, his golden head dipping next to hers. “Is this to scale?”

She nodded, clenching her fingers to keep from brushing the silky hair that slipped across his forehead.

He measured the windows and drew in the doors on her layout. His shoulder bumped hers, and another flash of heat zipped through her. “There.”

“Good.” She rolled up her work, planning to escape.

“Can I get copies of those?” he asked.

“Why?” The gardens were her concern.

“I like a complete picture of everything happening on my projects.”

“So you have total control?” she asked. “You really do have a control hang-up, don’t you?”

“I anticipate problems.” A lethal smile broke across his face. “And that requires absolute control.”

“I’ll send you copies, but these are preliminary sketches.” Sometimes the land didn’t conform to her drawings. She pointed at him. “I have absolute control of the patios and gardens.

“Sure.” He laughed. “Anything else in this room?”

She checked her list, avoiding his eyes. “All doors need card readers.”

“That’s the plan.”

“We can head upstairs.”

They moved to the main staircase. Bess stared at his butt. The work of art was right in front of her as they climbed. The two times she’d seen him naked, she hadn’t truly appreciated it. She regretted that almost as much as sleeping with him.

At the top of the stairs, she pointed to the first bedroom. “We’d like to open this bedroom to adjoin with the old music room.”

He flipped between the pages. “You’ve got a furnace run between these rooms.”

“Is it in right now?”

“If the plans are right, it’s already there.”

“Can you work around it?” She chewed on her thumb.

He tapped at her hand.

Her eyes flared open. “What?”

“You were gnawing on your thumb.” His words rasped out. His eyes locked on her mouth.

“Bad habit.” She tucked her hand into her back pocket.

He turned, but not before she caught the flicker of heat in his gaze.

“Is there a way to put a connecting door in?” she asked, trying to stay on task.

He assessed the plans. “I wouldn’t recommend it.”

She frowned. “We’ve got a couple more adjoining-room requests.”

Daniel determined only one was possible. Then they looked at the tub and shower placement changes Bess and her sisters wanted.

In the master bedroom, she asked, “Can you create a larger balcony here?”

He opened the door. They peered out at the rickety wood floor.

“When we tear off the old balcony, we’ll assess whether there’s enough support to expand.”

“Good.” She brought her thumb near her mouth.

He shook his head.

“You’re as bad as my sisters.” She frowned. “We want French doors and balconies on all the courtyard bedrooms.”

Daniel smiled again. “This project will keep our staff and subs busy. I’ll check with the architect and engineer.”

Would it cost more money? “Thanks.”

On the stairs, Daniel set his hand under her elbow. “I don’t trust the railing.”

She didn’t know what was more dangerous to her health, a loose railing or Daniel. If he kept touching her, she might burst into flames and burn the place down.

“So how’s the job search?” he asked as they headed down the next flight of stairs.

She shrugged. “Nothing yet.”

“Did you do something impulsive like quit?” he blurted out.

“I loved that job!” Why couldn’t he see that she’d changed?

He raised one eyebrow. “Then what happened?”

“I was laid off.” Her face grew warm. “Mid-August. Not the optimum time to be searching for a job in my field.”

He shook his head. “I’m sorry, kid.”

“Kid?” She wanted to poke him, but he held her elbow.

“If you need to delay your rent payment, let me know,” he said.

“I’m fine.” Now her face was on fire. She hated Daniel’s sympathy. “I need to work on a wedding consult.”

“I thought you didn’t have a job?”

“I have a supply agreement with Cade.”

“You’re kidding.”

“No.”

“He fired you.”

“Laid me off. And I worked for him for almost five years,” Bess said.

“He betrayed any loyalty you owed him.”

She headed to the door. “Don’t you lay off crew members?”

“Not if I can help it.”

“But you do,” she pressed.

“Yeah.”

“And do they feel betrayed?”

Daniel ran his fingers through his cap of golden hair. “That’s different.”

“I’m not burning any bridges with Cade.” She tipped her head at him. “Are we done?”

He nodded.

She stepped outside, finally able to take a breath without catching a whiff of Daniel’s aftershave.

Two days down of working with Daniel. Only five months more. It had to get easier.

* * *

“OVER HERE,” DANIEL CALLED.

Gray moved from the entrance of Kevin Barry’s pub. “How’s it going?”

“Good.” Daniel didn’t plan to tell Gray about his father’s health or his problem with working side by side with Bess.

For the walk-through, she’d worn her normal working uniform of hiking shorts and a tank top. His body didn’t know what was good for him. All he could think about was how good she looked naked. When she’d put her thumb to her mouth, he’d gotten hard. He couldn’t tell Gray about that.

He wished Gray would take an active role in Carleton House and keep Bess out of it. They’d worked well together on Gray’s condos here in Savannah.

A server swung by and they ordered beers.

“Here’s the condo build-out estimate.” Daniel handed Gray a folder. Forester Construction handled all the build-outs on the condos Gray owned in Savannah. Daniel walked him through the numbers.

“That was fast.” Gray tipped his beer at the estimate. “I’ll let the couple know, but this is in their price range. They’re hoping to be in by the end of October.”

Daniel made a note on his phone. He’d have to rework the crew schedules. “The only challenge will be getting the Brazilian cherry flooring they want. I’ll make some calls.”

“Let’s lock this down before I head back to Boston.”

“How’s your renovation progressing in Boston?” Daniel grinned. “As smooth as your Savannah rehab?”

“I wish you could work on that project.” Gray shuddered. “I trust you.”

It was nice to hear. While working together, he and Gray had become friends. “I’m a Georgia boy. Plus, we’ve got enough going on with Carleton House.” And whatever was happening with Pop.

Gray bounced his project issues off Daniel. It was great to talk with someone as an equal. Talking to Bess had been—difficult. She had a vision, but it didn’t allow for structural limitations.

When Gray stopped asking his opinion on his Boston problems, Daniel asked, “How do you want Carleton House to work?”

Gray frowned. “What do you mean?”

“Bess doesn’t have your knowledge, but she’s spending your money. I’m hoping you’ll stay active in the project.”

Life would be simpler working with Gray. Unlike Bess, Gray would never pull some prank. And Daniel wouldn’t fantasize about kissing him. He rolled his shoulders.

“I’ll be too tied up in Boston.” Gray raised an eyebrow. “Are there problems?”

“Let me show you the changes Bess requested.” Daniel unrolled the blueprints and walked through Bess’s list. “I suggested they use single French doors in the library, but the doors will still be custom.”

“Good idea,” Gray said.

“And they want balconies on all the courtyard rooms.”

“That works.” Gray tipped back his beer. “Want another?”

“Sure.” Daniel had work to finish tonight, but he needed to know how to keep Gray in the loop.

Gray flagged the server and they ordered beers and food.

“I like the idea of adding more balconies.” Gray pored over the exterior prints. “You’re sticking with the black wrought iron, right?”

“That’s what Bess wants. And Pop would have my head if we didn’t.”

“What’s with your dad?” Gray asked. “Everyone assumed he would run this project.”

“Something’s...off.” He didn’t want to tell his friend he was as shocked as everyone else. “Mom made him go to the doctor. I assume they’ll figure out what’s wrong and he’ll be back on the job soon.”

“Good.” Gray nodded. “So back to Carleton House. This will be the Fitzgeralds’ B and B. Bess is in charge. I’ll be in Boston on a pretty set schedule. Let me know whenever the changes total two percent.”

Two percent. Daniel did the math. “We might be there with the balconies. The wrought-iron bids will be high.”

“Let me know what the total cost will be. After these changes—go with the two percent.” Gray raised his eyebrows. “Are you worried about working with Bess?”

Not that he would tell Gray. “You know construction.”

“And she’s a landscape architect. There has to be crossover.”

“I don’t need help with the drainage and what bushes to plant where.”

Gray tipped his head and didn’t say anything. The server dropped off their food. While Daniel dug into his grilled shrimp, Gray stared at him as if he’d stepped in something.

“Yeah, yeah, Bess is good with flowers,” Daniel admitted.

“She’s smart, too. And hardworking. And the sisters know what works for a B and B. They all lived through the Fitzgerald House restoration.” Gray aimed a finger at him. “Don’t be dissing my future sister-in-law.”

Daniel swallowed. “I won’t.”

“Bess has authority to sign change orders for Carleton House.”

“Good to know.” Daniel wanted to scream that this was not a good idea. She was an accident waiting to happen.

But that wasn’t the real problem. Bess was basically his boss.

He needed to stop thinking about her naked.

CHAPTER FIVE

Don’t let the tall weeds cast a shadow on the beautiful flowers in your garden.

Steve Maraboli

“BOUQUETS ARE DONE.” Bess flexed her fingers before wheeling her cart back into the King’s Gardens’ coolers.

“I’ve got one more table arrangement.” Molly leaned close. “Are you uncomfortable working here?”

“Cade and I have a good agreement.” Bess was uncomfortable, but she’d survive. “Plus, he lets me use his delivery van.”

“He should. Done,” Molly said, stretching out her back. “Do you have time for lunch?”

“Sure.” Then she was heading over to Carleton House to pin Daniel down on when she could start in the gardens.

After cleaning up, they met at Lenny’s Diner and grabbed their usual booth.

Molly asked, “Any job prospects?”

Bess was tired of answering this question. She drew pictures in the sweat on her glass. “A nursery up in Beaumont called. They like my résumé but don’t have any openings.”

“That sucks.” Molly grimaced. “Plus, I don’t want you to move. I love working with you.” She sighed. “My hours are way down, and working with Cade’s son—not good. He needs seasoning.”

Bess laughed. “You make him sound like a slab of steak. He’s not that bad.”

Molly rolled her eyes. “He’s not you.”

“Thanks.” Bess patted her friend’s hand. “I don’t want to move, either. Plus, I’m responsible for Carleton House.”

“How’s that going?”

“We’re finalizing the architectural designs.” Bess wiggled. “I can’t wait to tear down the flagstone wall. You’ll work with me, right?”

“Absolutely.” Molly nodded. “What are you planning in the courtyard?”

Bess talked and sketched on her place mat until their salads arrived.

“I love your ideas.” Molly took a bite. “Let me know when you’re ready to work.”

“I’m toying right now. Once the wall is down, I’ll have a better sense of the space.”

“Any offers on your apartment?” Molly asked.

“No, thank goodness.”

Molly pointed with her fork. “If you need a place to stay, you can crash at my apartment.”

“You only have one bedroom.” Bess tried to keep the shock from her voice.

“We’d figure something out.”

“Thanks for the offer.” It would be as bad as living with Abby and Gray. “I hope my apartment takes forever to sell.”

After they finished eating, Bess headed to Fitzgerald House. Daniel’s silver truck was parked next to the Carleton carriage house. Good. She could pin him down on when she could get into the gardens.

The carriage-house doors hung open. A power saw filled the entrance. As she headed through the doorway, the changes amazed her.

The skeleton of a curving stairway rose from the center of the space. Pillars and walls defined the rooms. She explored, finding a bathroom and guest bedroom. She’d helped Abby and Gray as they’d worked on the layout, but it was different seeing it in real life.

Footsteps echoed on the floor above. Boots slapped on the stairs. Whoever it was moved fast. A nail gun’s rhythmic beat continued above her head.

Long legs came into view first. She knew those lean, muscled thighs and the hips that emerged. She’d held on to those hips as tight as the tool belt strapped there.

She gritted her teeth. Sure, he made her heart beat triple time. He also kissed like a dream and melted her insides, but he didn’t really see her. He thought she was still irresponsible.

His boots hit the main level. “Bess.”

“I saw your truck.” She crossed her arms, lining up her arguments. “I’m wondering when I can get the wall down. I want a date.”

He rubbed his neck. “You can start next week.”

“Oh.” She let her hands drop. “Okay. Good.”

He snickered. “You thought I’d put you off.”

“I...” Yes.

“You keep forgetting, we have the same goals.” He closed the distance between them. The smell of freshly cut wood drilled into her core.

She took a step back, hating her body’s reaction to him. “Anything new on the Carleton House changes we requested?”

“I’m waiting on one more answer.” He checked his phone. “The engineer promised to call today.”

“Well, good.” She backed toward the door, needing to escape his intoxicating scent. “Let me know what you hear.”

“Will do.” He frowned at her. “Are you working in the Fitzgerald House gardens this afternoon?”

“No. The ballroom.” She escaped out the door. “Text me.”

She jogged to the Fitzgerald carriage house, where she stored her decorating supplies. Might as well vent her sexual frustration on work. She grabbed a cart and dug out the box of pale green tulle and bows. Carefully, she added glittery white tree branches to the pile along with boxes of fairy lights.

This bride wanted her large double white arbor. She started to move the arbor, but the wood gave a groan. “Shoot.”

She called Nigel, a B and B employee. “Any chance you could help move an arbor?”

“Can you wait forty-five minutes? I’m picking up guests at the airport.”

“Oh. I’ll find someone else.” There were strong men working at the carriage house, but she didn’t want to ask Daniel.

She’d start with this load. The cart rattled as she pushed it across the flagstones. She went in through the service door, wedged the cart into the elevator and headed to the ballroom on the top floor. The last wedding held here had been Mamma’s.

Daniel had looked hot that night. Heat rushed over her face. Who was she kidding? Daniel always looked hot. Ten years ago he’d broken her teenage heart. This latest rejection had only bruised her ego.

Bess needed to stop thinking about him. He didn’t respect who she’d become. She needed to be stronger and smarter than this...this lust bubbling inside her.

Back in the carriage house, she wiggled and shifted, finally loading the arbor on the cart. Hanging on to a leg, she pulled the cart around the curving garden paths. The wood groaned whenever the cart wobbled.

She bit her lip. Maybe this wasn’t a good idea.

“What are you doing?” Daniel’s deep voice boomed across the courtyard.

Her shoulders stiffened. “Moving an arbor.”

His boots were heavy and quick on the garden path stones. “Where to?”

“The ballroom.”

Daniel laughed. He actually laughed.

She jerked the cart back into motion, hoping to run over his toes.

“Wait.” He grabbed the cart’s back handle. “You’ll never fit through the door.”

“I know.” She’d planned to get Abby or maybe housekeeping staff to help.

Grabbing the center of the arbor, he stood it up, setting it across the path.

She winced. “Watch out for my roses.”

He raised an eyebrow. Pushing straight up with his arms, he carried the arbor, barely keeping it from scraping the ground. His muscles bulged. “Get the doors.”

She tore her gaze away his fascinating arms. “We have to take it up the outside stairs.”

“I should have guessed,” he mumbled.

She slipped under the arbor, brushing against Daniel’s body. Inhaling, she caught his addictive scent. “This way.”

“Did my dad make this?” he grunted.

“He sure did.” She patted the wood. “Said it would last.”

“I can tell. It weighs a ton.” Daniel sidestepped up the large stone steps. “I need your help.”

She slithered by his hard, fantastic-smelling body one more time. Was he doing this to taunt her?

He tipped the frame on its side.

She steadied the leg and lifted. Working together, they inched up the stone steps.

“The third floor?” Daniel set the arbor on its side on the second-floor landing. “Who usually helps you move this?”

“I’ve only used it in the courtyard.”

He took a deep breath. “Ready?”

“Ready.” She hefted the heavy leg. She had tears in her eyes by the time they reached the landing.

“Break,” he called, laying the arbor down.

She shook out her aching arms.

“Are you okay?” he asked.

“Never better,” she gasped.

He grabbed the wood. “Okay, last flight.”

She got under the leg and let the edge rest on her shoulder. The wood ate into her skin, but it took more weight off Daniel.

“Finally,” he called from the landing. He stood the arbor up, raised his arms and rested them against the frame. “Where do you want it?”

Lifting the arbor, he followed her into the ballroom.

“Right here.” The bride wanted the feel of an outdoor wedding without worrying about her makeup melting in the heat.

He set it down.

She pushed and pulled until it was in the perfect spot. “Thanks for your help.”

“No problem.” He touched her shoulder and his finger came away bloody. “What happened?”

“Ow.” The wood had sliced a line in her skin. “The arbor.”

“This needs to be cleaned,” he said.

His fingers moving on her skin had her stomach doing cartwheels.

He pulled her to the women’s bathroom. Grabbing paper towels, he soaked them in hot water and hand soap. “This might sting.” His tone was serious.

She jerked. “I can clean this myself.”

“I’ve got it.” He brushed down her tank top and bra strap.

“Hey!”

“Oh, stop.” He gently cleaned the cut. His hair brushed her cheek as he inspected the wound. “I’ve seen you naked.”

“It won’t happen again,” she mumbled.

“Hmm.”

Darn it. It was different seeing Daniel worried about something other than his work.

“Do you have Band-Aids?” His fingers stroked her shoulder.

She shivered from his touch. “I don’t think so.”

Carefully folding a paper towel, he used her bra strap to anchor the makeshift bandage. “That ought to hold.”

“Thanks.” Her voice shook.

“How does it feel?” He cupped her shoulders.

Feel? She only felt his hands. Her stupid heart pounded and it wasn’t from hauling the arbor up the stairs. “I’m fine.”

His gaze darkened.

She held her breath. She wanted him to step closer. He might kiss and reject, but the need to feel his lips on hers was almost painful.

“Bess.” He stared at her mouth.

The door banged open.

Daniel shook his head, as if he’d awakened from a dream.

Cheryl, a B and B employee, pushed a cleaning cart into the bathroom. “Oh!”

“Hi, Cheryl.” Bess wadded up the bloody paper towels and tossed them in the garbage with shaking hands. “Daniel was cleaning my cut.”

“I’ll come back.” Cheryl pointed out the door.

“No.” Bess’s face had to be bright red. She risked looking at Daniel.

He stared at the floor. “We’re done.”

She and Daniel filed out of the bathroom together.

“Thank you,” she murmured as they walked into the ballroom.

“No problem.” He almost ran to the French doors, but stopped, shaking his head. “The engineer called. We’ve figured out how to add the balconies.”

“Fantastic.”

He stared anywhere but at her face. “So I’ll...I’ll let you know when the architect gets the blueprints back.”

“Great.”

“’Bye.” He hurried away, his boots clattering down the stairs. He sure was hell-bent on getting away from her.

* * *

DANIEL POUNDED THE steering wheel. He’d stroked Bess’s soft skin. Her earthy, flowery scent had wrapped around him, almost luring him to kiss her.

He was smarter than this. She wasn’t good for him. Hell, he’d planned to check on the work over at the Landing on Skidaway Island, but he’d forgotten because of Bess. This was what happened when he was around her. He forgot his priorities.

At least he hadn’t forgotten Mom’s invite to dinner. They could eat and have a pleasant evening. Maybe Pop had good news from his doctor.

Parking in front of his parents’ house, he released a deep breath. If Pop was better, everything could go back to normal. His dad could manage Carleton House—and Bess.

Daniel wouldn’t have to worry about not kissing her anymore.

As he locked his truck, Nathan’s truck pulled in behind him. Shoot. More aggravation.

“Hey, little bro.” Nathan bounded up the steps ahead of him.

Daniel’s shoulders tensed, and his fingers curled into fists. “What are you doing here?”

Nathan opened the door. “Mom wanted me here for dinner.”

Daniel paused in the hallway. Why make Nathan drive from Atlanta?

“Dinner’s ready,” their mother called from the kitchen.

Pop dozed in his recliner.

Nathan grabbed a beer from the fridge. He wiggled the bottle at Daniel. “Want one?”

“No.”

“Sit. Sit.” Debbie put a serving dish on a trivet on the table. “Samuel, dinner,” she called.

The recliner snapped upright with a thud. Pop came to the table. Was he dragging more? Were the purple bruises under his eyes darker than last week?

Daniel took his place at the scarred wooden table. Mom had pulled out the brightly colored place mats she’d bought on a Bahamas cruise. Her “happy” place mats, she called them. Cold fingers gripped the base of his spine.

“Sit,” she called in a too-cheerful voice. “Abby gave me her chicken piccata and mushrooms recipe.”

Setting out the platter, she waved. “Dig in.”

Mom’s tone reminded him of when Nathan had cut classes or been suspended in high school—she always lighten up the tense dinner conversation with chatter.

The food circled the table. Daniel’s stomach twisted. When he only took a small piece of chicken, Mom frowned.

“Is Abby feeding you, too?” she asked.

“Pop’s not around.” He forced a grin on his face. “Someone has to eat what she bakes.”

“Humph.” But she stared at Pop with sorrow-filled eyes.

“Thanks for coming.” Pop patted Nathan’s shoulder. “I know it’s a drive.”

“I didn’t come for you, old man.” Nathan held up his fork. “I came for Mom’s cooking.”

Pop laughed. Mom bit her lip. And as usual, Nathan was oblivious.

Daniel nudged his brother’s boot under the table.

Nathan glared at him.

He couldn’t pretend nothing was wrong. “What did the doctor say?” Daniel’s voice was as harsh as a ripsaw.

“We’ll eat first.” Mom’s eyes narrowed.

“I can’t.” Daniel’s silverware clattered on the table. “I can’t make small talk and joke around if something’s wrong.”

“You can’t do that when nothing’s wrong, either,” Nathan muttered.

“Enough. It’s not doom and gloom.” Pop set his fork down. “Doc Kramer has taken a boatload of blood and other...items I will not mention at your mother’s dinner table. I’m definitely anemic.”

“Anemia’s curable, right?” Daniel asked.

Pop shrugged. “Apparently mine’s severe. They’re still trying to figure me out.”

“I told the nursing staff they’d never figure him out.” Mom’s smile didn’t reach her eyes.

“So why are we here?” Daniel waved his hand around the table, but what he meant was, Why is Nathan home? His twin had screwed up all his life. He’d even messed up working for the family business. It was why he worked in Atlanta now. Nathan had lost his place at the proverbial table.

“I...I can’t get everything done.” Pop ran his hand through his hair. “I need help.”

Daniel’s stomach churned. “I’ll do whatever you need.”

“We know. You always do.” Mom patted his hand. “But we have too much going on to put it all on your shoulders.”

Daniel stared at Pop, but his dad was staring at Nathan.

No.

“Can you come home?” Pop grasped Nathan’s hand. “I know there were...problems before. But I need you here.”

Problems? “You’re kidding.” Daniel spit out.

Pop shook his head. “No.”

“Nathan slept with a client’s wife. He showed up to work drunk.” Daniel pushed his chair away from the table, the scrape as sharp as nails on a chalkboard. “We don’t need Nathan.”

“I’ve changed.” Nathan stood, too. “I won’t make the same mistakes.”

“What new ones will you make?” Daniel snapped back.

They both planted their fists on the table, leaning over the cooling food.

“Sit!” Their mother ordered.

Daniel glared at Nathan, but sat for his mother.

“Your father and I have discussed this.” She pointed at Nathan. “You’ve proven yourself in Atlanta. Can you come home and manage some of the projects? Be a leader and an example to the crews?”

“Absolutely.” Nathan’s glare was like knives ripping through Daniel’s chest. “My boss relies on me, even though I’m not the chosen one.”

“At least I never stepped out of line,” Daniel shot back. “The cops never came to the door because of me.”

“Why would they? You were perfect.” Nathan turned to their father. “I’ll give notice in Atlanta and come home as soon as I can. You can count on me.”

“Count on you for what? To drive our business into the ground?” Daniel’s voice was shrill.

“I’m not twenty anymore.” The china and silverware clanked as Nathan pushed his plate away. “Can’t you give me a chance?”

“You had a million chances and never changed.”

“Stop,” Pop barked.

The fridge compressor kicked on.

Pop sank back into his chair, exhaustion and disappointment creasing his face.

“I’m sorry.” Daniel wasn’t sorry for expressing his displeasure, but he was sorry he’d worn out his father.

Pop waved a hand.

“It’s your company.” Daniel pushed away from the table. “You do what you want.”