Back in his arms again

Somewhere deep inside, Jordin DuGrandpre has always been waiting for Ethan Holbrooke to come back to Charleston. He moved away as a teen, breaking all contact—and her young heart. Back then, she had no idea how difficult his family life was. Now she wants to heal the hurt behind his successful, sexy exterior, but Ethan is an expert at keeping people out. Even the one woman he truly wants.

Jordin’s the only part of Ethan’s old life that he hasn’t rejected. He left and made a fortune on his own terms, yet still feels that he doesn’t deserve her. Hiding his emotions from the gorgeous attorney is impossible once desire gives way to molten kisses. But he’ll have to face his past to make room for the healing passion she offers, and the love they’ve both been yearning for...

Without warning, Ethan pulled her closer to him.

He took her mouth as if it was his to do with what he pleased, making it his own in a way that had Jordin’s hands rising of their own volition, her fingers curling into his shirt. Her moan slid free of her mouth and into Ethan’s.

The kiss was explosive, consuming and intense.

All Jordin could think about was the heat of Ethan’s body against her own.

Ethan released her slowly, leaving Jordin breathless, hungry for more of his kisses and drowning in desire.

He drew a slow breath.

She gazed into his chocolate-brown eyes.

“You are irresistible,” he murmured, as though having reached some internal understanding with himself. Ethan lowered his head down to hers, and pressed a single kiss on her lips.

Their gazes locked. Jordin and Ethan glimpsed the attraction mirrored in the other’s eyes.

Ethan kissed her again, lingering, savoring every moment.

Jordin’s emotions whirled. Blood pounded in her brain, her heart leaped and her knees trembled.

“I have always been drawn to you, sweetheart,” Ethan whispered. “From the moment I laid eyes on you.”

Dear Reader,

Only for You is the second book in the DuGrandpres of Charleston series. Jordin DuGrandpre is thrilled that Ethan Holbrooke is back in Charleston. She intends to seize this opportunity for the two of them to reconnect. However, Jordin finds that she has to knock down the wall around Ethan’s heart.

I was inspired to write this story during a visit to Charleston, South Carolina. While there, I overheard a snippet of a conversation about a young woman who was perplexed by the actions of a friend who recently returned home. There is a saying that “home is where the heart is,” and for Ethan, this is true.

Best,

Jacquelin

Only for You

Jacquelin Thomas

www.millsandboon.co.uk

JACQUELIN THOMAS is an award-winning, bestselling author with more than fifty-five books in print. When not writing, she is busy catching up on her reading, attending sporting events and spoiling her grandchildren. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

Bernard, you are my best friend and the love of my life. My heart is always with you.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

Dear Reader

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Extract

Copyright

Chapter 1

Jordin DuGrandpre stared out her office window, immersed in sights and sounds of the downtown business district. In 1960, her grandfather Marcelle founded the first African American–owned law firm in Charleston, South Carolina. DuGrandpre Law Offices was in its new location, four floors above bustling Broad Street. Marcelle’s esteemed legacy had continued with twin sons Etienne and Jacques DuGrandpre and their children.

Etienne’s daughter Jordin loved this city of her birth and could never imagine living anywhere else. She adored everything about Charleston—the waterfront park, the food...everything.

“I guess you heard the news about Boot Camp Gym.”

Turning away from her office view of downtown, Jordin faced her twin sister. “Jadin, I didn’t hear you come in,” she stated.

“I noticed.” She gestured toward the window. “This view is absolutely stunning.”

Jordin gave a slight nod of agreement. “I did hear about the new gym. I actually went by there a few days ago. I’m really happy for Ethan.” She felt a warm glow flow through her.

Jadin sat down in one of the visitor chairs. “I am too,” she murmured. “It’s good to see how things worked out for him.”

“Ethan had a lot going on back then—more than any of us knew.” Jordin and Ethan Holbrooke had been friends since they were in middle school. She still remembered the day he left as if it had been yesterday, although eleven years had passed. She had been sixteen at the time and heartbroken over losing her best friend.

“Are you still infatuated with him?” Jadin inquired, leaning forward in her seat, looking at Jordin as if she were trying to figure out what she was thinking. “You don’t have to say anything because I’m sure I already know the answer to that question.”

“I will always care about Ethan.”

A grin spread across her sister’s face. “I knew it. You still have feelings for him.”

Jordin stared into golden-brown eyes that mirrored her own. “Drop it, Jadin. I haven’t seen Ethan in a long time. Besides, I’m sure he’s forgotten all about me. Especially since he never once tried to contact me after he left.” She swallowed the hurt she felt behind Ethan’s actions. He had promised to keep in touch no matter what.

“But you haven’t forgotten about him though.” Jadin’s voice pulled Jordin away from her thoughts.

She did not confirm or deny her sister’s statement.

“Have you heard if he’s moving back here or just opening the gym?” Jadin inquired.

“I haven’t,” she responded, “but I’m hoping that he will come back to Charleston to stay. I’ve missed him.”

“This man is not the same boy and teenager you remember, Jordin. Besides, he may be married with a family. I don’t want you getting hurt.”

She detected a hint of censure in her sister’s tone. “He’s not married,” Jordin announced. “It was mentioned in another article I came across.”

“But it doesn’t mean that he’s exactly free and single either,” Jadin countered.

“I know...” she responded with a soft sigh. “It’s not like I’m planning a wedding or setting my hopes and dreams on Ethan. I just want to reconnect with him. There’s nothing wrong with that.”

“Not as long as your expectations are realistic.”

A tall, slender woman dressed in a pair of navy blue pants and a crisp powder-blue blouse appeared in the doorway.

“Mom, what are you doing here on a Monday?” Jordin asked. The only time Eleanor usually came by the office was for a weekly lunch date with her husband on Wednesdays.

“Your father wanted to see me,” she responded. “He just informed me that another DuGrandpre is joining the firm.”

Jordin noted her mother did not seem thrilled by the news. “Is it Andre? He’s been talking about leaving New Orleans for a while now.” Eleanor did not care much for her nephew’s choice in the criminals he often represented. In truth, Jordin felt the same way about her cousin.

Eleanor shook her head no. “It’s not Andre.”

“Then who is it?” Jadin inquired.

“Your brother.” Eleanor’s tone was coolly disapproving.

“Austin is coming to Charleston,” Jordin uttered in surprise. “I wonder how his mother feels about his decision to work with Dad.” Her father was married briefly to a woman named Irene and Austin was born out of that union.

When Etienne DuGrandpre married Jordin’s mother, Irene left Charleston vowing that Etienne would never see his son again. Although she could not manipulate the court system in her favor, Irene was successful in alienating her son from his father by making him believe that Etienne loved his twin daughters more. By the time he was sixteen, Austin wanted little to do with his father.

“How does Dad feel about this?” Jordin questioned.

“He’s ecstatic, of course. This is something he’s always wanted.”

“Mom, how do you feel about this?” Jadin wanted to know.

“I’m not sure,” Eleanor responded candidly. “I just find it interesting that a man who has had nothing to do with his father for years suddenly wants to work in the family law firm. I’m suspicious of his motives.”

“I have to admit I’m feeling the same way,” Jordin confessed. “I was surprised when I heard that Austin decided to study law and now this...” She gave a slight shrug. “I don’t know. Maybe he really wants to connect with the father he barely knew.”

Eleanor sat down in the empty chair next to Jadin. “Your father tried to be there for Austin but was rejected at every turn. His mother turned him against his own father. It still angers me to think of it.” She retained her affability, but there was a distinct hardening of her eyes.

“Austin’s a grown man,” Jadin stated. “Maybe he’s ready to repair his relationship with Dad. He may not have any ulterior motives.”

“All we can do is wait and see how this goes,” Eleanor stated. “I just don’t want your father to be disappointed.”

Jordin nodded in agreement as she checked her watch. “I have to go. I need to head over to the courthouse to meet with my client. I’ll give you a call later, Mom.” She began placing documents into her tote.

“I think I’ll go with you,” Jadin said. “I haven’t seen you in action in a while. Besides, I want to see how this case goes.”

“I believe in our justice system, so I’m sure my client will win. We have a lot of strong evidence to support his claims.”

“I’ll go get my purse.”

Jordin grabbed her tote, and then said, “Meet me at the car. I am going to walk down with Mom.”

Jadin rose to her feet. “I’ll be right behind you.”

Eleanor looped her arm through Jordin’s. “I hope you are not spending all of your free time alone.”

“I’m not, Mom. I’m not dating anyone, but I still manage to get out with friends and have a good time.”

“I know that you want to have a husband and family at some point—it won’t happen unless you meet someone.”

Jordin smiled. “I don’t just want to meet any man, Mom. I want the right one.” As far as she was concerned, there was only one man perfect for her. The problem was that she hadn’t heard from him in years.

* * *

Ethan Holbrooke’s head was throbbing when he woke, and he felt nauseated. After the feeling passed, he shook the foggy feeling in his head and swallowed to rid the cottony taste from his mouth as he sat up in bed.

Charleston. The very place he’d vowed never to return to eleven years ago. So what had prompted him to open his newest gym in a city that evoked bad memories?

Jordin DuGrandpre.

Eleven years away from her and Jordin was as fresh in his mind as she had been when he was taken away from Charleston. They had been sixteen years old at the time. He recalled that she had tears in her eyes as they said their goodbyes. Ethan promised to keep in touch, but did not keep his word. It was too painful, and at the time, he doubted he would ever see Jordin again.

Ethan had intentionally avoided all contact with her because he did not relish seeing the pity in her eyes, or hearing it in her voice. After all, he was not a victim. He survived his mother’s abandonment, his father’s rejection and the rigorous training at the military academy. When he graduated college, Ethan sold weight loss products from the trunk of his car by posting handmade flyers all over Richmond, Virginia. In the first month, he made five thousand dollars and three years later, he was a millionaire. Now, Ethan owned a chain of fifteen gyms around the country.

He shook away his thoughts and hustled to take a shower. He had an appointment to meet with a news reporter to discuss his latest gym and its programs.

An hour later, Ethan stalked through the entrance with his jaw clenched. His scowl wasn’t aimed at anyone or anything particular. Ethan hated giving interviews, but considered it crucial to his business.

The woman was already there when he arrived.

Running her fingers through her blond curls, she awarded him a huge smile as he approached her. “Thank you for meeting me, Mr. Holbrooke. I’m Helen Jovanovich.”

“Just call me Ethan.”

“Okay, Ethan. I really appreciate you taking time out of your busy schedule to talk to me.”

He unlocked the double doors and escorted her inside.

“Wow,” she murmured. “This is unlike any other gym I’ve seen before.”

“This is something I hear all of the time,” Ethan responded. “This is what makes Holbrooke Boot Camp Gyms different from any other. Our programs are designed for people who are really serious about exercise. The training is rigorous.”

“In what way?” Helen asked as she scribbled words in a notebook.

“We have a total body circuit training that can burn eight hundred to twelve hundred calories a session using various pieces of equipment. This program is never the same routine.” Ethan paused a moment before continuing. “This is our Suspension Trainer. It’s a highly versatile piece of equipment that uses a person’s own body weight to build functional strength and improve flexibility, balance and core stability all at once.”

“So the programs here are definitely not for those who dabble in exercise.”

“They are for people who are serious about fitness,” Ethan emphasized. “Our martial arts and circuit training class is designed to train a person like a fighter. We have several professional athletes who train regularly with us in the off-season.”

Helen touched one of the one-hundred-pound heavy bags. “I can certainly see why. What do you call this?”

“These are our ground and pound bags. They are six feet tall and weigh a hundred pounds or more.”

“So all of your programs are designed to push you to your limits?”

“Yes,” Ethan stated. “Customers come to Boot Camp Gym because they want to learn advanced weight training techniques.”

“I see that you offer a kickboxing class.”

He nodded. “My kickboxing program is a high-intensity training technique using multiple tools on the heavy bag.”

Ethan released a sigh of relief when the interview came to an end. He left the reporter in the care of his new gym manager, but he wasn’t ready to return to his hotel suite. He had been away from Charleston for a long time. It was time to get reacquainted with the city.

An hour later, Ethan lost himself in the rhythmic sounds of the churning wheels of his bike as he rounded the first bend of a ten-mile ride. He enjoyed the feel of the cool air on his face as he rode, pushing himself hard to help take the edge off his mood, but so far it hadn’t helped.

* * *

Jordin hummed softly as she strolled into the lobby of the building where she worked. She was joined a few minutes later by an associate. “Good morning, Keith.”

“Morning,” the man uttered in response with his jaw clenched.

She knew that his scowl wasn’t aimed at anyone or anything in particular, but she did not try to initiate him in conversation. Jordin moved out of his way as he stabbed the elevator control panel. Keith was a brilliant lawyer and charismatic in the courtroom. Outside of this, he was not necessarily a people person.

The elevator doors slid open minutes later to reveal the reception desk and waiting area of the DuGrandpre Law Offices. Keith’s nod to the receptionist was curt but polite as he moved past her toward his office.

Jordin smiled. “Good morning, Charlotte.”

The woman smiled in return. “It’s always nice to see your sunny smile, especially after a cloud blows through.”

She knew Charlotte was referring to Keith and chuckled softly. “Be nice...”

Jordin stopped in front of her father’s secretary. “Is my dad in yet?” She asked as her fingers drummed distractedly on the desk.

“He should be here within the hour.”

“Okay, thanks.”

Humming softly, Jordin made her way to her office, shutting the door behind her.

Ethan was opening a gym in Charleston. It was a great opportunity to try to reconnect with him, she considered. Then she could find out why he hadn’t kept his promise to stay in contact.

She sighed softly.

Jordin missed her best friend and longed to see him again, but it was best not to get her hopes up. The pain in her heart was like an old wound that ached on a rainy day.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the ringing of her telephone.

It was her father’s secretary.

“Your father has arrived and he would like to see you.”

“I’ll be right there, Charlotte.”

Jordin left her office and walked the short distance to the large corner suite. “Good morning, Dad.”

Etienne smiled warmly. “I heard you were fantastic in court yesterday.”

She sat down in one of the visitor chairs. “I believed that my client was the best choice to raise his son and the judge agreed in light of the evidence.” Jordin paused a moment before adding, “I felt bad for the mother though, but she still has a lot to do before she can handle parenting.”

“How is the boy?”

Jordin smiled. “He’s happy. His mother will have supervised visitation every other weekend once she completes rehab.”

Her father nodded in approval. “That child’s happiness and safety is what is most important.”

She agreed.

A slender woman strolled into Etienne’s office without knocking.

“Good morning, Aunt Rochelle,” Jordin greeted.

A flash of annoyance crossed her father’s face. She knew that he only tolerated Rochelle out of respect for his brother. His sister-in-law was a great attorney, but otherwise a selfish and inconsiderate person.

“Hello, dear,” Rochelle responded. “You were on my mind last night, Jordin. I’m really surprised that you haven’t gotten married already. You’re pretty enough and I know how much you love children—”

Jordin quickly rose to her feet, and cut her off by saying, “I don’t want to hold you up so I’ll leave so you can talk with Dad.”

“Hon, can you drop these off with Ryker?” Rochelle asked, holding a thick folder.

“Sure.” Jordin cast a look of sympathy at her father before exiting his office. Her aunt had a good heart but she was snobbish, opinionated and very protective of her children. When Ryker and Garland first got married, her interference almost ruined their relationship.

Jordin walked briskly down the hall to where Ryker’s office was located. “These are from your mother.”

“Hey, did you know that Ethan is back in town, cousin?” he inquired when Jordin set the folder containing legal documents on his desk.

She felt a warm glow flow through her body and responded, “No, I didn’t know he was here. Have you see him?”

He shook his head no. “Garland and I ran into Chandler Morris last night while having dinner. He told us that Ethan was moving back permanently.”

“That’s great news about Ethan,” she murmured. “I’d really like to see him.”

Ryker didn’t blink when he looked at Jordin and broke the news. “Then you’ll be thrilled to know that he’s moving his corporate offices here, as well. His office is in the building on the corner.”

Jordin’s heart sang with delight. “Now that I know where his office is located, maybe I’ll drop by with a gift to welcome him back to Charleston, and then I’ll fuss him out for not keeping his promise to me.”

Ryker gave her a knowing smile. “Why am I not surprised?”

She folded her arms across her chest. “I’m going to forgive him because he has always been my best friend. I can’t wait to see Ethan again.”

“I understand. I’d like to see him as well.”

“We can go there together,” Jordin suggested.

Ryker shook his head no. “I’m sure you’d like to have some time alone to get reacquainted with Ethan.”

Her smile broadened in approval.

“Oh, before I forget, the girls want to spend some time with you this weekend,” he announced. “What’s your schedule like?”

“I don’t have anything special planned. Why don’t I come get them Friday after work and keep them until Sunday? You and Garland can have some couple time.”

“You don’t have to do that.”

Jordin met her cousin’s gaze. “I want to do this. I love spending time with Kai and Amya.”

“Maybe you can explain to them that while they have the same birthday, they are not twins. They know that you and Jadin are twins as well as my dad and your dad.”

She laughed. “They are just trying to figure all this out.”

“Garland and I tried to explain that they are not twins because they have different mothers.”

“Ryker, they are only four years old. Amya never knew her biological mother—all she knows is that Garland is her mom. She is also the only mother Kai has known. When they are older, they will understand that they were switched at birth and how it worked out in the end.”

“Happily-ever-after,” Ryker murmured.

Jordin broke into a smile. “I love seeing you so happy.”

“I love Garland more and more each day. She is a wonderful wife and mother.”

“You complement each other.”

“I’ve always felt that way about you and Ethan,” Ryker told her. “Remember how you two used to finish each other’s sentences?”

Jordin chuckled. “Yeah, we did do that.”

“When you see him, don’t forget to give him my regards.”

“I won’t. Thanks for the heads-up on Ethan,” Jordin said as she headed toward the door.

Although she was happy to hear that her best friend had returned, troubling thoughts assailed her. Ethan’s back and he didn’t even try to contact me. Eleven years have gone by and no word from him. Why didn’t he keep his promise?

* * *

Jordin had such a warm, loving spirit and she was always smiling. Ethan loved her sense of humor and the sense of freedom she seemed to have in her life. Not only was she beautiful but she was intelligent as well. There had always been an undeniable magnetism between them, which probably explained why he was sitting in a parked vehicle across the street from the law firm, watching as she and Jadin walked to the bistro located on the corner.

Coward.

Ethan had missed her greatly but was unsure of the best way to approach her, especially after he hadn’t bothered to stay in contact with her over the years. He knew that in deciding to move back to Charleston, they would run into each other eventually.

But as strong as his attraction was to Jordin, Ethan knew that he could never act on those feelings. A relationship other than friendship between them could never work because they were from two very different worlds. But also because love was not a part of his plans for the future. He was focused on his company and didn’t have the time or the inclination to deviate from the driving force that had been guiding him since college.

Ethan pulled up the collar of his jacket and turned the key in the ignition. He drove to his hotel. The home he purchased would not be ready for another two weeks.

He sat down in the living area of his suite and picked up the television remote. Jordin was still at the forefront of his mind. He considered calling her at the office, but decided to wait until he found the right words to say to her.

Ethan tried watching TV, but when he couldn’t find anything to his liking; he gave up and reached for a magazine on health and exercise trends.

He was interrupted an hour later when his friend Chandler called.

“How did your interview go?”

“Okay,” Ethan responded. “It’s just not something I enjoy doing. I’m thinking of hiring someone to handle publicity.”

“Have you talked to Ryker or Jordin?”

“Not yet,” he answered. “I’ve been so busy with the gym...”

“You might as well know that I told Ryker you were in town.”

“That means that Jordin knows as well,” Ethan uttered. “She was going to find out eventually, I guess.”

“Her knowing is not such a bad thing, is it?”

“No.”

“Have you visited any of the old haunts?”

“I did a ride-by on my bike a couple of times,” Ethan confessed, “but that’s about it. I didn’t go by my old neighborhood though.”

“Are you worried that you’ll run into your mom? My aunt said that she saw her at the market last Saturday.”

Ethan swallowed his surprise. He’d had no idea that Lydia was back in Charleston. “She’s the least of my worries.”

“I’m sure she’s heard by now that you were moving back.”

He chose his words carefully. “It doesn’t matter to me. She’s not a part of my life anymore.” Ethan changed the subject by asking, “What time are we meeting for dinner tomorrow night?”

Their conversation ended ten minutes later after setting a time to meet.

He got up and made his way to the master bathroom where he showered and put on a pair of sweats.

Jordin.

He found himself wanting to open up to her about everything, but to feel her pity was much more than Ethan could bear. He had no idea how much she’d heard about that awful period of his life, but staying away from Jordin would not be easy, especially when his new office was a block away from the DuGrandpre firm.

Chapter 2

I have no business being here, Jordin thought as she strolled through the doors of the 4200 Broad Street building where Ethan’s new offices were located. She’d debated most of the morning whether to show up at his place of business. Although Jordin had not heard from him, she decided to take the initiative.

She’d chosen a black-and-white color-blocked dress with a pair of red shoes and red accessories for work today. I always get compliments whenever I wear this outfit. Jordin imagined her look would also garner Ethan’s attention.

A sense of pride flowed through her as her eyes traveled around the lobby area with a two-story atrium filled with large vases of flowers and a stunning collection of abstract artwork. Ethan had chosen a great location for his home office.

She followed the sign to the elevators and took one to the top floor.

The elevator doors slid open.

She walked down the short hallway to the penthouse suite.

Jordin entered with determination through the double doors that led to the reception desk and waiting area of Ethan’s company.

She smiled at the receptionist, but caught sight of the man she longed to see. “Ethan?”

Their gazes locked across the room. Jordin noted the brief reaction of shock and pleasure in his chocolate-brown eyes before it faded into a businesslike stare.

Ethan excused himself from the person he was talking to and quickly walked toward her.

Smiling, Jordin met him halfway.

He looked so good. She gave him a quick and not-so-subtle once-over. Ethan was no longer the scrawny boy she remembered. He had grown taller and was built solid like a military tank. She doubted there was an ounce of fat anywhere on his body. He was all muscle. However, his movements were fluid and agile.

The words, “Hey, stranger, what are you doing here?” popped out of his mouth almost immediately.

“I’ve been here all along,” she replied smoothly. “It’s you who disappeared without a word. Then you come back into town and I don’t even get a phone call.” Jordin tried to maintain her cordial tone.

She heard his sharp intake of breath.

“You’re right,” Ethan said after a moment. “Things were crazy for me back then and I didn’t want to involve you in that madness. As for now, I had every intention of reconnecting with you, but as you can probably understand, it’s been a busy time for me.”

Jordin broke into a smile. “I’m glad you decided to come home. I have missed you so much.”

The tenderness in Ethan’s expression amazed her. “I missed you too.”

Her only emotion was relief.

Jordin glanced around. She could feel the heat of the receptionist’s gaze on them.

“How about a tour of your new office?” she suggested in a low voice.

“I have to warn you that there’s still a lot of work left to be done,” Ethan told her as he escorted her down the hall. “I guess we’ll start with my office.”

“Did your employees relocate here with you?”

“Most of them did,” he responded. “I was quite surprised because I hadn’t expected so many to want to leave Virginia.”

As soon as Jordin walked into his office, she said, “I don’t know what you were talking about, Ethan. This place is amazing.”

She loved the contemporary look. Ethan had combined leather and fabric furnishings for a unique, yet professional representation of his company. The camouflage chairs looked to be custom designed.

“The furnishings are from my old office,” Ethan explained. “I think it’s time for something new.”

“I think it fits your Boot Camp Gym branding.”

Jordin swallowed past the dryness in her throat, her hungry gaze taking him in. He wore a suit, black with faint pinstripes running through the expensive fabric; a crisp, pale gray shirt and a perfectly knotted burgundy tie. Ethan’s eyes were a rich, dark brown and his caramel-tinted face had chiseled features with a strong jaw. Everything about the man sizzled with sensuality.

Once inside with the doors closed, he said, “I’m sorry about that, Jordin. I want you to know that I regret not staying in contact with you.”

His intense gaze made her breath go ragged. “So why didn’t you call or write me?”

“At the time, I thought it was best.”

She embraced him, surprising them both. “It was a long time ago.”

“A lifetime ago,” Ethan responded as he held her close. “From the looks of it, you were too busy to miss me. I hear you’re a force to be reckoned with in the courtroom.”

Stepping away from him, Jordin broke into a smile. “I don’t know about that, but I do fight tooth and nail for my clients.”

He gestured for her to sit down in the green leather chair near the window. “It’s what you always wanted.”

Ethan sat down in the other one.

“It’s in my blood,” Jordin responded as she settled against the chair cushion. “You’re the one who’s doing big things around here. I’ve read all about your success. Ethan, I’m so proud of you.”

“I found something I was passionate about and things just kind of took off from there.”

“I’m going to have to check out your gym.”

His eyes slid casually over her body. “The programs are rigorous.”

“What are you trying to say, Ethan?” Jordin asked with a grin. “You don’t think I can handle your boot camp program?”

“It’s intense. Do you believe you’re up to the challenge?” he questioned.

Jordin met his gaze. “Definitely.”

“The gym will be open in a couple of weeks,” Ethan announced. “I guess we’ll find out what you’re made of then.”

She laughed.

“How is your family?” he inquired.

“They’re great,” Jordin responded. “How about your mother? Have you two been in contact since you’ve been back?”

Ethan’s smile disappeared as he walked over to his mahogany desk and stared down at his reflection in the uncluttered surface. “She’s the last person I expect or want to hear from,” he stated in a curt tone.

Jordin was stunned by the look of loathing on his face. It was clear that he held a lot of resentment against the woman who had abandoned him. She swallowed hard before saying, “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“Don’t be,” he uttered. “I’m not.”

She stared, wordlessly. Jordin could not believe he was talking about his mother like that. At one time, the two shared a very close relationship.

“I know it sounds harsh, but I see no point in pretending.”

Jordin wanted to ask what happened after he left Charleston, but had a feeling this was not the right time. They would have the chance to have that conversation in time.

Finally, she said, “I’m just happy you decided to come back home, Ethan.”

“It was not my original intent,” he confessed. “But now that I’m here...seeing you again...it’s all good.”

“Deep down, I always believed that you would return,” Jordin stated.

As their eyes met, she felt a cold shock run through her.

“To be honest, I vowed never to return to this place.”

“This is just more evidence that I’m always right,” she responded, wanting to lighten the mood.

Ethan chuckled. “That statement proves just how wrong you are.”

“You have always been a sore loser.”

They both laughed.

Jordin glanced down at her watch. “Ethan, I need to get to court, but I wanted to come by and see you.”

“I’m glad that you did. It’s good to see you.”

Ethan walked her out of the building and to her car. He handed her a business card. “Text me your phone number.”

“Definitely,” she responded with a smile. “I’m thrilled you’re back.”

Jordin stared with longing at him before getting in and turning the key in the ignition.

Ethan’s really back. Jordin had to see him for herself before she actually believed it. His return was an answer to her prayers.

Upon her arrival at the courthouse minutes later, Jordin parked her car, and then texted her cell and home numbers to Ethan. She anticipated hearing from him within a few days. The prolonged anticipation was almost unbearable.

Ethan’s obvious resentment of his mother was still at the forefront of Jordin’s mind. She shared a close relationship with her family, although she understood that his situation, like many others was a different experience. It was one of the reasons she chose to specialize in family law. She also volunteered at a women’s shelter twice a week and offered pro bono services to families who could not afford legal fees. She worked to keep as many families together as possible.

Her heart ached over Ethan’s pain. Jordin could not fully comprehend how a mother could just abandon her child like that. When they were younger, Ethan once told her that he suspected his mother’s boyfriend, Rob, was a drug dealer. Like Ethan, Jordin did not care for him and had no idea why Lydia was so in love with someone like Rob. He was controlling, possessive and verbally abusive to both Lydia and Ethan.

Jordin often wondered if Lydia was still with Rob, and if their life together was worth the price of abandoning her own child. It was obvious that Ethan was still angry with her for leaving him.

I would probably be just as angry if I were in his shoes, she thought. Despite his feelings, Ethan had decided to return home, and for that, Jordin was ecstatic.

* * *

The scent of Jordin was beyond description. The connection was still alive and sizzling between them. It had not been shattered by time apart.

He needed to get a grip, Ethan scolded silently, but it was hard to do because the floral perfume Jordin wore still lingered in the air, although she had already left his office.

She was no longer the gangly teenage girl he remembered; she had grown into a beautiful woman. Her walk still had a sunny cheerfulness. Ethan had always loved how Jordin’s features became animated whenever she discussed a subject she was passionate about. She had become more stylish and glamorous in her choice of clothing—a huge difference from the teenage girl with an obsession for Bedazzled denim jeans and T-shirts.

“You just missed your mother’s call,” the receptionist announced when he returned to his office.

“If she calls me back, just take a message,” he stated without emotion.

Lydia Holbrooke was the main reason Ethan briefly considered not relocating to Charleston, but he put aside his personal feelings in favor of a smart business decision. Besides, at the time, Ethan had no idea where she was. Resentment over her abandonment still filled his heart.

Ethan leaned back in his chair and let out a frustrated growl. Lydia being back in Charleston was indifferent to him. One thing for sure, he was not about to let her sabotage everything he had worked for in his life.

He was the result of his mother’s affair with a man who was engaged to another woman.

Despite Lydia’s pregnancy, his father’s fiancée decided to go through with the wedding, although she made it clear that she wanted nothing to do with Ethan. He and his mother were close until she met Rob Calloway. Rob was possessive and jealous. He didn’t want Lydia to spend time with her own child.

His mother always warned him of the dangers of drugs and alcohol, which Ethan considered hypocritical on her part because the man she was so in love with sold drugs for a living. In the end, she and Rob were arrested in Maryland for transporting drugs across state lines. His mother went to prison while he had to move to North Carolina to live with the father he barely knew.

His stepmother made it obvious that she was not happy with him being in her home. She did not want him around his siblings. His father apologized before sending him away to attend a military academy in Virginia.

He spent most of his holidays with the families of school friends, vowing never to return where he was clearly not welcomed. Ethan swallowed hard, forcing down the bitterness that threatened to spill out.

He leaned back in his chair to think. Ethan remained that way for a few moments, and then sat up. Instead of thinking of the past, his time would be better spent focusing on the future of his company.

* * *

Jordin hummed as she prepared a simple dinner of meat loaf and mashed potatoes. She checked her phone several times, hoping that Ethan had tried to contact her.

After she finished eating, Jordin cleaned up the kitchen before settling down for the evening. She felt a wave of disappointment that she had not heard from Ethan. It was clear that he wasn’t as eager to talk to her as she had imagined he would be. Jordin sighed, clasped her hands together and stared at them.

He had seemed happy enough to see her, however.

Jordin considered calling Ethan, but she had already made the initial contact—the ball was now in Ethan’s court.

She had always believed that Ethan had feelings toward her, although those emotions never bloomed into anything more than friendship. He hadn’t changed all that much outside of the huge chip on his shoulder. Jordin had done her best to put Ethan out of her mind over the years, but he held a permanent spot in her heart.

Her sister’s suggestion that he was possibly involved with someone came back to haunt her. Jordin could not imagine their friendship coming to an end because of his relationship with another woman. The idea of Ethan in love with anyone but her filled her with jealousy. Jordin had always believed he would come back to Charleston—back to her.

Chapter 3

Jordin glanced over at the desk calendar in her office, sighing in frustration. Five days had passed and still not a word from Ethan. She continued to put off calling him. Despite her frustration, Jordin was determined to wait for him to make contact. In the meantime, she kept herself busy.

She and Jadin had made plans to spend the day shopping. Her sister was expected to arrive at any moment.

The doorbell sounded, putting an end to her musings.

Jordin opened her door fully expecting to see her sister. She gasped in surprise. “Austin...” She had no idea that her brother was already in Charleston, but seeing him at her door thrilled Jordin beyond words.

“Hey, little sister.”

“When did you get into town?”

“Thursday night,” he responded. “Can you pretend to be a little happy to see me?”

“Oh, I’m glad that you’re here,” Jordin replied. “I was just surprised to find you at the door. I was expecting Jadin and I thought you were her. C’mon inside.” She stepped aside to allow her brother entrance into her home.

“Good, I want to talk to you both.”

She studied his expression for a moment before asking, “Is everything okay, Austin?”

He nodded. “Yeah.”

The room enveloped in uneasy silence.

“I heard Ryker got married again,” Austin stated, breaking the quiet.

“He did,” Jordin confirmed, “and they have two beautiful daughters and another baby on the way. They recently found out that this one is a boy.”

“I’m happy for him.”

Another pregnant pause.

“Austin, I’m ecstatic to hear that you are joining us at the firm.” Jordin broke into a smile. “You have to know that it’s a dream come true for Dad.”

He did not respond.

“How is your mother?” she asked.

“She’s great.”

“How does she feel about your coming here and working with Dad?”

“She’s not thrilled about it,” Austin admitted candidly, “but it was my decision to make.”

“It’s really going to be nice having you around,” Jordin stated.

The doorbell sounded.

“This has to be Jadin,” she announced. She walked briskly across the hardwood floor and opened the door.

Her sister entered the house. “Are you ready to go?”

Jadin’s eyes strayed over to where her brother was sitting. “Austin, I had no idea you were here. When did you arrive in town?”

“I’ve been here since Thursday evening.”

“You’ve been in town for a day and a half and we are just now hearing from you. Why is that?” Jadin questioned.

“I spent yesterday looking for a place to live. I’d like to get settled as soon as I can before I start work.”

“Austin, what’s the real reason you came to Charleston?” Jadin wanted to know. “I know that it wasn’t just because you wanted to be close to Dad.”

“Actually, it has everything to do with him,” he responded. “I want to get to know Etienne DuGrandpre for myself. I need to see if he’s anything like my mother said.”

Jadin smiled at him. “I think that’s a smart decision.”

Jordin wasn’t so sure that she believed Austin. She clung to the idea that there was another reason for his coming to Charleston. One that he obviously wasn’t willing to share with his sisters.

“Well, I’ll head out since you two already have plans.”

“You’re welcome to join us,” Jordin stated, “but I have to warn you—we love to shop.”

He smiled. “Maybe next time.”

Jordin and Jadin each gave him a hug before walking out with him.

“Well, big brother is in town,” Jadin murmured as she settled into her sister’s car.

Jordin nodded. “Yeah, but I don’t think this is just about Dad.”

“So what do you think the real reason could be?”

“I have no idea,” Jordin responded. “My instincts are telling me that he also came to Charleston for another purpose.”

“Well, we will find out what his motives are in time.” Changing the subject, Jadin said, “Ryker told me that you went to see Ethan. How did that go?”

“Fine,” she answered. “I was so happy to see him. Sis, he is so handsome.”

“He’s always been nice looking.”

Jordin agreed.

Fifteen minutes later, they strolled through the doors of a downtown fashion boutique.

“I know that you really care about Ethan, but maybe you should keep some distance between the two of you,” Jadin suggested as she switched her purse from one shoulder to the other.

“It’s not like he came looking for you when he returned to Charleston.”

Her words stung, but Jordin kept her expression blank. “No, he did not contact me, but Ethan’s still my friend and I’m not going to abandon him. He’s been through a lot.”

“You can’t save him.”

She turned and met her sister’s gaze straight on. “I’m just trying to reconnect with my friend. That’s all.”

“I don’t think even you believe that,” her sister responded.

“Seriously,” Jordin uttered. “This is about friendship.”

Changing the subject, she asked, “What do you think of this dress?”

Jadin smiled and nodded in approval. “I love it.”

“So do I,” Jordin responded. She was glad to put an end to discussing Ethan. She and Jadin would never agree when it came to him.

After forty minutes in the store, they were finally satisfied with their selections. Jordin led the way to the cash register.

“I spent more than I’d planned, but I found some great buys,” she said, pulling out her credit card.

“There were some great items on sale,” Jadin agreed.

Purchases in hand, they headed to the exit door a few minutes later.

Jordin heard a familiar voice shortly after they stepped outside. She looked over her shoulder, then stopped in her tracks.

“Hello, ladies...”

“Hello, Ethan,” she and Jadin replied in unison.

He chuckled at their response. “Still doing the twin thing, I see.”

Jordin laughed. “Since we’re identical, I don’t think that’s ever going to change.”

Ethan’s smile warmed her.

“I didn’t expect to run into you,” Jordin stated.

“It’s Saturday and the day is beautiful,” he responded. “I thought I’d enjoy some of it.”

Jadin gave a slight nod. “It’s a really nice day.”

Ethan met Jordin’s gaze and said, “I’d planned to call you, but this was a really hectic week for me. I had to fly out to Arizona for business, and then Memphis for a conference.”

“I understand,” she murmured. Deep down, Jordin felt a measure of relief upon hearing the reasons why Ethan had not called. She was beginning to wonder if he was avoiding her.

“Do you have any plans for this evening?” he inquired.

“I’m having a girls’ night at my place.”

He laughed. “I definitely don’t want to interfere with that.”

Jordin chuckled. “No, you don’t.”

“How about I give you a call tomorrow night?”

She broke into a smile. “I look forward to talking to you then.” Ethan glanced over at Jadin and added, “It’s good seeing you again.”

“Same here,” she responded.

Ethan gave Jordin a quick hug, and then hugged her sister before leaving them to enjoy their shopping.

“You were right,” Jadin stated. “Ethan is very handsome and so muscular.”

“I told you...”

“He seems a little distant though.”

“Really?” Jordin asked. “I don’t think so.”

“Be careful, sis.”

“I don’t know why you and Dad dislike Ethan so much. He’s never done anything to anyone in our family.”

“I can’t speak for our father, but I personally have nothing against the man,” Jadin stated. “I just know that your feelings run pretty deep where he is concerned and I don’t want to see you get hurt.”

“That’s just it, Jadin. I don’t have anything to worry about where Ethan is concerned. He is a good person.”

“I don’t doubt that. I’m just not sure he cares for you as much as you care for him.”

Jordin eyed her sister. “I know what I’m doing.”

“I hope so,” Jadin replied. “I really hope so.”

Her sister never took the time to really get to know him when they were younger. She decided to change the subject by saying, “I’m picking up Amya and Kai this evening.”

“Oooh. I haven’t seen them in a couple of weeks.”

“Why don’t you come by tonight?” Jordin suggested. “We can make it a real girls’ night.”

“Michael will be back today. We’re going to have dinner together. If it’s not too late afterward, I’ll try to swing by to see them.”

Jadin and Michael had dated in law school. While she did not care for the man personally, Jordin was careful not to interfere in her sister’s relationship. She only wished her sister would give her the same respect.

* * *

Ethan pulled up to a stoplight and waited patiently for the light to change. He felt guilty. He should’ve called Jordin by now, but he kept putting it off. He hated avoiding her, but for now, Ethan felt it was for the best.

He felt the tiny hairs on the back of his neck stand up.

Ethan glanced out the window, his eyes landing on a pretty woman sitting in the car next to him. She smiled at him and gave a little wave.

He returned her smile out of politeness.

The light changed and Ethan was on his way. He harbored no regret at not getting her name and number. He had no time for romantic relationships.

Ethan pulled into a parking space fifteen minutes later. He got out of the car, grabbed a stack of documents and headed to the entrance of his new gym.

The manager was in his office when Ethan walked inside.

“Hey, Walter,” he greeted. “I wanted to touch base with you about the grand opening. Here are copies of the new ads coming out this week.”

Walter scanned through the pages. “Nice...”

“Are the showers fully installed?” Ethan questioned.

“All of the bathrooms and showers are all ready to go. The childcare center is almost complete. The painters should be here later today.”

“Looks like everything is right on schedule.”

Walter nodded. “The uniforms are due to arrive tomorrow.”

“What about the member T-shirts? When are they supposed to come in?”

“By the end of the week. I spoke to Allen and he can send us some if we need them sooner.”

Allen was the gym manager in Virginia. Ethan met him when he was a trainer at another company. Allen was the first employee Ethan hired to work at his first gym. He became a manager three years later.

Ethan left the gym two hours later to meet Chandler at a restaurant for dinner.

“I can’t believe I let you talk me into moving back to Charleston,” he stated after they were seated in a booth with a view of the waterfront. “You know when I left this town—I vowed never to return.”

He and Chandler had been best friends since kindergarten. Ethan had corresponded with him a few times over the years, but they had talked more frequently in the past six months.

“This is about business,” Chandler responded. “You have to admit that your new facility is the talk of the town right now.”

“I could have continued running my company from Virginia.”

“It was time for you to come home, Ethan. You and I both know it. You have a lot of unfinished business here.”

“We’ll see.”

Chandler laid down his menu. “Is your house going to be ready on time?”

Ethan nodded.

“What do you think of the office space?” Chandler asked. “The moment I saw the property listed, I felt like it was perfect for you.”

Ethan chuckled. “You know me well. The building is perfect. I did find it interesting that my office is so close to the DuGrandpre location.”

Chandler did not respond, but also did not bother to hide his amusement. “Have you spoken with Jordin yet?”

“As a matter of fact, she came to see me at my office last week,” Ethan said. “You didn’t have anything to do with that little meeting, did you? How did Jordin know where my office was located in the first place?”

Shrugging, Chandler responded, “I haven’t spoken to Jordin in months.”

“How about Ryker?”

Chandler grinned. “Well, I did run into him and his wife one evening.”

“And you told Ryker I was back, right? I knew that Jordin and I would eventually run into one another but I didn’t think it would be so soon. I wasn’t prepared.”

“Sounds like fate intervened.”

Ethan shook his head no. “Not in the way you’re thinking, Chandler. I can’t deny that it was good to see her, but things are different between us now.”

“In what way?”

“In every way that matters,” Ethan stated. “Truth is that she’s always been out of my league. I was just too stupid to realize it back then. No matter how much money I have, I will never be good enough for Etienne DuGrandpre’s daughter. Her father tolerated our friendship, but I got the feeling that he did not want our relationship going further than that.”

“That may have been true back then, Ethan,” Chandler responded. “Jordin’s old enough to make her own decisions. I don’t think you should give up on her so easily. I know how much you care for her.”

Ethan shrugged in nonchalance. “Her father never cared much for me though. Anyway, I’ve got too much baggage, Chandler.”

“I don’t think she’d allow her parents to pick her husband. Jordin’s much too independent for that.”

“I don’t know...” Ethan uttered. He scanned his menu, trying to decide on what he wanted to eat.

His mind traveled back to Jordin. One of the qualities that attracted Ethan to Jordin was her genuine smile, which seemed prominently on display at all times. Her once shoulder-length hair was in a short bob. She wore no makeup outside of lipstick. Still, he found her incredibly sexy.

* * *

“How was your weekend with the girls?” Jadin inquired on Monday morning. “I couldn’t come by because Michael and I had a serious conversation about our relationship.”

“We had such a great time,” Jordin responded as she prepared a cup of hot tea. “Kai and Amya missed you though.”

Jadin poured coffee into a black mug. “I’ll have to see if I can set up a movie date with them or something.”

“I’m sure they would love it.”

Jordin picked up a plate containing fresh fruit and a bagel. “The more time I spend with those little girls, the more I want to have children of my own. I can’t wait to be a mother.”

“You’d definitely be good at it,” her sister responded.

She studied her sister’s face. There was a hint of sadness behind Jadin’s eyes. “Are you okay?”

“I’m fine.”

“I know you, sis,” Jordin stated. “You mentioned that you and Michael talked—is everything good between you two?”

“He’s been offered a job with a large law firm in Beverly Hills.”

She met her sister’s gaze. “Is he going to take it?”

Jadin nodded. “He wants me to go with him.”

“What did you say?” Jordin couldn’t imagine her sister being thousands of miles away from her, but she would never try to stand in the way of Jadin’s happiness.

“I told him that I couldn’t. I could never do that to Dad. He’s always drilled the importance of the DuGrandpre legacy.”

“Dad also wants you to be happy, Jadin. I’m sure he would understand.”

“I’m not moving to California,” she stated. “Michael understands my reasons why and while he isn’t fond of the choice I made—he understands why I can’t go.”

“Yet you seem somewhat sad.”

“I love Michael and I’m really going to miss him.”

“Well, at least you can visit him.”

She shook her head sadly. “I told him that I thought it was best to just be friends. I don’t want Michael to feel obligated in trying to maintain a long-distance relationship.”

“You just said that you love Michael,” Jordin stated. “Why would you break up with him?” Deep down, she was thrilled because she suspected he was nothing more than a ladies’ man. Jadin wanted to get married, but he always used the excuse that he wasn’t ready.

“It’s for the best, sis.”

“For you or him?”

Jadin met her sister’s gaze. “For both of us. We are DuGrandpres, Jordin. Our grandfather started this company from the ground up here in Charleston. I am proud of our duty to make sure his legacy is carried on. You remember how upset Granddad and Uncle Jacques got when Aubrie decided to become a chef?”

“Her father eventually accepted her decision,” Jordin pointed out. “Granddad is still not happy about it though.”

“Deep down, Uncle Jacques is not completely okay with it either.”

She had to agree. It really hurt her uncle when his only daughter chose not to follow in her family’s footsteps. Jordin glimpsed the longing in her sister’s eyes. She knew that as much as Jadin wanted to be with Michael, she would never choose him over her family.

Despite her mixed feelings where Michael was concerned, Jordin did not necessarily agree with Jadin’s unwavering loyalty to the family. It was time for her sister to selfishly consider her future with the man she loved. “Think of your own happiness for once.”

“I always thought that you didn’t care much for Michael,” Jadin stated, “yet you are telling me to follow him to California.”

“I don’t believe he’s the man for you,” Jordin explained. “However, it is not my right to stand in the way of your happily-ever-after.”

Jadin met her gaze. “I suppose you would like for me to do the same where you’re concerned. Right?”

“What are you talking about?”

“Ethan.”

“This isn’t about me or Ethan, Jadin. We are talking about you and Michael.”

“So if Ethan wanted you to leave the firm—would you?”

“I would consider his request,” Jordin confessed.

“You would put a man before the good of our company...our family legacy?” Jadin questioned. A look of disbelief crossed her face.

“Our legacy is woven into the fabric of this beautiful city, sis. I am a DuGrandpre by blood and nothing will ever change this,” Jordin stated. “However, I also deserve to be with someone who loves me. I want to create a legacy with my husband for our children. I would think that you’d have the same desires.”

“The DuGrandpre name is a burden we have to bear, Jordin. We can’t take it lightly.”

“You sound like Granddad,” she uttered in response.

“Granddad told us how he was threatened by a group of racists when he started the law firm. The original office was burned to the ground, but our grandfather didn’t give up. Our company was founded on his blood, sweat and tears, Jordin.”

“I know all of this, sis. I wouldn’t do anything to tarnish our history, but I have the right to live my life on my own terms—we all have that right, Jadin.”

“I’m afraid we are never going to agree on this subject,” she responded with a sigh.

“Jadin, I don’t disagree with you. I just believe that I can have a life of my own without bringing dishonor to my family. Aubrie has a very successful restaurant—this is an extension of the DuGrandpre legacy and there’s nothing wrong with it. Our legacy reaches far beyond the law firm.”

Her sister remained silent.

“I know you are beyond loyal, Jadin, and it’s a wonderful quality. I am also loyal to this family and our company, but I am not going to give up on marriage and a family,” Jordin stated. “No one requires this of us.”

“I disagree.”

“Well, I intend on living my life on my own terms, Jadin, and I suggest you do the same. If you don’t...you may one day regret it.”

Chapter 4

“Jordin, what are you doing here?” Ethan asked, surprised that she had come to the office to see him a second time.

She lifted her chin, ran her fingers through her hair as she walked toward him—she was electrifying. Her hair, her eyes, and the way her hips swayed invitingly when she walked, screamed sexy.

The soft tap of her heels against the marble floor sounded a steady rhythm, even over the noise of the employees scurrying around in the office. She did not stop until she was right in front of him. “I came to see you, silly.”

“Let’s talk in my office,” he said.

The two walked in silence down the hallway.

Inside his office, Jordin’s eyes traveled around the room. He had added more furnishings since the first time she visited. “Very nice...”

“It still needs a decorator’s touch.”

Her perfume reached for him, flavoring the air he breathed. Ethan looked down into her eyes, saw the sparkle and knew he was in deep trouble.

“Why don’t you give my mother a call?” Jordin suggested. “I’m sure she’d welcome the opportunity to enter a bid to land the contract.”

“She doesn’t have to bid—I’ll give her a call to see if she can schedule me in.”

“I’m sure you’ll be pleased with her work.”

“I don’t doubt that,” he responded.

“I hope I’m not keeping you from anything,” Jordin stated as she made herself comfortable in one of the visitor chairs.

“I always have time for my friends.” He had a mild, interested tone.

“Really?” she asked. “I figured you must have been really busy since I haven’t heard from you. We are still friends, right?”

“I deserve that.”

“Yes you certainly do,” Jordin responded. “I mean...not one phone call or text to just say a quick hello.”

“I accept full responsibility for my actions. I have been busy too.”

She sat with her arms folded across her chest.

“How can I make this up to you?”

“Why don’t you come by my house for dinner this evening? I actually learned how to cook, although it was only out of necessity.”

Ethan laughed. “Tell the truth...are the meals you prepare edible?”

“Yes, they are. I’m a really good cook. I learned from Aubrie.”

“How is she doing?” he asked. “Chandler was crazy about her, but she would never give him a second look, probably because he was Ryker’s friend.”

Jordin nodded in agreement. “She never wanted to be involved with any of her brother’s friends. Aubrie has her own restaurant now.”

“That’s great. I can’t believe there’s actually a DuGrandpre who did not go into law.”

Jordin chuckled. “Both my grandfather and uncle went into shock when she told them she wanted to be a chef.”

They were quiet for a few minutes.

“I really thought I would’ve heard from you,” she blurted. “Since I haven’t, I decided to come here so you can tell me why?”

“I know that I haven’t been a very good friend.”

“That’s not at all what I’m saying, Ethan.”

“It is what it is,” he responded. “I didn’t stay in contact with you as promised and now that I’m back...nothing has changed. I know this is what you’re thinking.”

“The thought crossed my mind once or twice.”

“Let me make it up to you, Jordin. I ordered lunch for the staff,” Ethan announced. “Do you have time to have to eat something? I want to continue our conversation about your so-called cooking skills. I have to confess that I’m not buying it. As I recall, you couldn’t even make a decent mud pie when we were younger.”

She laughed. “Yes, I can stay for lunch. As for the mud pie, I didn’t like getting my hands dirty. Really, I can cook.”

“I’ll be the judge of that tonight.”

Jordin broke into a huge grin. “So you’re accepting my invitation, then?”

Ethan nodded. “We have a lot to talk about and I’d rather not do it here at the office.”

“I understand,” she murmured.

Ethan leaned back in the black leather desk chair, watching her.

Jordin’s cell phone began to ring. She gave him an apologetic smile, and then said, “I need to take this call.”

“Do you need some privacy? You can use the office across the hall.”

“Thank you.” She rose to her feet fluidly and headed to the door, saying, “I’ll be right back.”

She returned ten minutes later. “Sorry about that. I’m afraid I’m going to have to take a rain check on lunch, but I look forward to seeing you tonight. I’ll text you my address.”

“I’ll make sure to bring my cast-iron stomach.”

Jordin broke into a grin. “You are going to regret those words, Ethan Holbrooke.”

He laughed as he escorted her out to the lobby area.

When he returned to his office, Ethan’s eyes landed on the clock. He found himself looking forward to the evening. Spending time with Jordin filled him with an unexpected excitement.

The thought occurred to him that he never once considered turning down her invitation. He no longer wanted to keep his distance, an invisible string pulling him toward her. He longed to be in Jordin’s presence, to hear her joyous laughter and her teasing.

* * *

“I’m cooking dinner for Ethan tonight,” Jordin announced as she strolled into her sister’s office later that afternoon.

Jadin’s eyebrows rose in surprise. “Really? When did this happen?”

“A little more than an hour ago,” she responded. “I went over to his office and invited him.”

Her sister sighed in frustration. “Why are you doing this to yourself? You gave Ethan your number which he never bothered to use, Jordin. I find that very telling.”

“I didn’t call him either.”

“I know how badly you want to reconnect with him, but maybe you should sit back and wait for him to make a move.”

“Jadin, I’m not going to play games,” Jordin stated. “I care about Ethan and I miss our friendship—it’s not about who makes the first move. I still consider him my best friend and I intend to make sure he knows it.”

Her sister shrugged in nonchalance. “I don’t know why I bother trying to discuss this with you. It’s not like you ever listen to me.”

“Sis, I hear what you’re saying,” Jordin responded. “But it doesn’t change my feelings. I will always care for Ethan.” She sighed softly. “Why can’t you just be supportive?”

“Because it’s not like you really know this man. I would feel differently if you two had been in touch all of these years.”

“Jadin, the truth is that you never thought he was good enough for me—even when we were younger. I know that Dad felt the same way.” Shaking her head, Jordin uttered, “I don’t care what you all think where Ethan is concerned. I am not going to give up on him.”

* * *

Ethan steered his SUV out of the parking lot and onto the street, per the vocal instructions of his GPS. He was not familiar with the area where she lived. He was mildly surprised that she did not live in the same Sullivan’s Island neighborhood where her parents and Ryker lived.

He arrived at her condominium located in the Village at Wild Dunes almost thirty minutes later.

The Isle of Palms area drew thousands of tourists annually. Jordin loved the beach, so he was not surprised she would choose a waterfront residence.

Ethan parked his car, climbed out and walked up to the front door with a bouquet of yellow roses for Jordin.

When Ethan entered the residence, the delicious scent of freshly sautéed garlic and herbs assaulted him.

His eyes landed on Jordin, who was wearing a clingy black dress that landed right above her knees and a pair of sexy high-heeled sandals. “You look beautiful,” Ethan murmured.

“Thank you,” she responded with a smile. “Now that we’ve got that out of the way, I’m going to change really quickly into a pair of comfortable jeans and shoes. I hope you don’t mind.”

Ethan burst into laughter. “There’s the girl I remember.”

“I would keep this on, but my shoes are killing me.”

“You can just take your shoes off,” he suggested.

“Naaah... I wanted to impress you. Now I just want to be comfortable.”

“I was greatly impressed,” Ethan confirmed.

“Good. Now I can get comfortable.” She tossed him the TV remote. “Find something interesting to watch.”

Ethan’s gaze traveled his surroundings. The mustard-colored walls and deep-purple-colored drapes provided a richly colorful backdrop while soft music floated throughout the house. Jordin had wonderful views of palm trees, lush landscaping and the beach.

She chose contemporary furnishings to decorate the spacious floor plan. The dining area was large enough for a table of six and overflowed into the great room. He liked the purple-and-gold theme accented with sage-green accessories.

“Did your mother decorate this place?” Ethan asked her when she returned to the living room.

Jordin shook her head. “No, I insisted on doing it on my own. She did make some suggestions, however.”

“You have a nice home.”

“Thanks. Have you found someplace to live?”

He nodded. “Yes, I’ll be moving in a couple of weeks. Remember the house we used to dream of living in on Orange Street?”

She met his gaze. “No way... You bought it?”

He nodded. “I did.”

“I loved that house,” Jordin murmured. “I used to imagine us sitting out on the terrace drinking lemonade and talking about everything under the sun. I love the double piazzas.”

“You have to see the inside of the house,” Ethan said. “Multiple French doors, high ceilings and hardwood floors throughout.”

“How many bedrooms do you have?” she asked. “I’m sure it has to be four or five.”

“Actually, I have six bedrooms and five baths. There is also a two-story guest cottage in the back with two bedrooms.”

“I told you there was another place in the back, remember?”

Ethan smiled. “You were right.”

“I hope you’ll give me a tour of the house. I’ve wanted to see inside for so many years... I can’t believe you bought our place.” Jordin gave a short laugh. “I guess it’s just your place now.”

“When I found that it was for sale—I felt like it was a sign that I should buy it.”

“I’m so glad you did, Ethan.” Jordin said with a smile.

Their gazes met and held.

“Okay, so why don’t we address the elephant in the room?”

He chuckled. “Same Jordin. You won’t give up until you have all of the answers.”

“That’s because you’ve always done a pretty good job of keeping secrets. I just thought that we had gotten way beyond that.”

“I wasn’t trying to keep secrets from you, Jordin. I just didn’t want you knowing just how terrible things were for me at home.”

“Ethan, that’s what I don’t get,” she murmured. “Why not? We were best friends. I used to tell you everything.”

“You are a DuGrandpre. I didn’t think you could understand what I was dealing with.”

“My family isn’t perfect, Ethan.”

“They were as near perfect as I could imagine.” Ethan paused a few seconds before continuing. “I’m sure you heard rumors about my mother.”

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