“Who?”

Sydney blinked up at her father. “What?”

“Who are you dating?”

Her gaze slid to the stranger, and she thought maybe white knights did ride to the rescue. It was worth a shot. What could happen? Even if this backfired, maybe her dad would get the message that she was serious about convincing him to back off.

“Him.” She angled her head. “I’m going out with him.”

Before her father could turn and look, she was on her way over to the man. Stopping in front of him, she looked up and said in a low voice, “I will forever be in your debt if you go with me on what’s about to happen. It’s a family thing.” She put a fair amount of pleading into her tone and her expression. “I’m begging you. And I’ll make it up to you. I swear.”

The Bachelors of Blackwater Lake: They won’t be single for long!

A Decent Proposal

Teresa Southwick

www.millsandboon.co.uk

TERESA SOUTHWICK lives with her husband in Las Vegas, the city that reinvents itself every day. An avid fan of romance novels, she is delighted to be living out her dream of writing for Mills & Boon.

To my nephew, C.J. Boyle.

Your courage and determination inspire me every day.

There’s no question that you have a hero’s heart.

Contents

Cover

Introduction

Title Page

About the Author

Dedication

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

Extract

Copyright

Chapter One

Sydney McKnight knew there was no way a white knight would ride in on his stalwart steed and save her, but a girl could hope.

Needing a good save is what happens when first thing in the morning your father, who was also your boss, hits you with the “are you seeing anyone?” question. It was a sure bet this conversation wasn’t headed anywhere she wanted to go.

Standing outside the office of McKnight Automotive, she glanced around for an escape, but short of making a run for it, there was no way out. Time to get the attention off herself and back where it belonged. On her father, who she and her brothers just found out had been seeing someone in secret. For months. And now Tom McKnight was looking to find out if his daughter would be in a committed relationship anytime soon so that he could take the next step in his own.

“Dad, you didn’t have to sneak around and date. The boys are fine with it.”

“It wasn’t Alex and Ben that concerned me, Syd. It’s you.” He met her gaze and there was no looking away or mistaking his meaning. “I will always have a special place in my heart for your mother.”

Complications from childbirth had caused her mother’s death. Syd knew she wasn’t to blame for it but that didn’t stop a small stab of guilt. “For years everyone has been telling you to get on with your life, Dad. Now we know you did, a while ago. With Mayor Goodson. It’s about darn time and I’m completely fine with it. Fly. Be free. Be happy.”

Her father’s expression tightened into a mask of stubborn resolve. “How can I be happy until I know your personal life is in order?”

That was code for having a man. What her father didn’t get was that first you had to want a man messing up your personal life and Syd didn’t. This wasn’t the first time they’d had this conversation, but she was going to do her best to make it the last.

“Dad—” She stopped and took a deep breath, tapping into her well of patience, which at this point was hitting rock-bottom. “I know you want to protect me, make sure I’m okay. And it’s really sweet, but I’m a big girl now.”

“I know you are, honey, but I can’t help worrying about you. Sue me. I want you to be settled, safe and happy.” He ran his fingers through his thick silver hair. “Maybe it’s about me being emotionally unavailable to you after your mom died.”

Emotionally unavailable? “You’ve been watching TV talk shows again, haven’t you?” she teased.

“Maybe.” His grin was fleeting.

“There’s nothing to make up for, Dad. I understand. Losing your wife was a shock. You’re a terrific father. The best. You did a great job. Alex, Ben and I turned out pretty awesome.”

“You’ll get no argument from me about that.” His blue eyes twinkled with paternal pride. “The thing is, honey, your brothers are both married and have started their families.”

And she was still very single, which translated to all alone. He didn’t say it, but the implication hung in the silence between them.

Over her father’s shoulder, Sydney saw an expensive, low-slung sports car growl to a crawl on Main Street in order to make the turn into McKnight Automotive. The beautiful, red, high-performance vehicle said something about the person driving it. For one thing, whoever it was didn’t mind being noticed. A machine like that was an attention magnet. Her fingers itched to get a look at what was under the hood—of the car.

Focus, Sydney, she thought. “Alex and Ben were lucky to find their wives, Dad. You wouldn’t want me to marry in haste then find out it was a mistake, would you?”

The sports car pulled into the driveway then roared past them and stopped under the covering that connected the business office and service bays of the garage. A dark tint on the windows prevented her from seeing who was behind the wheel, but she realized anticipation was swelling inside her to get a look at this person.

“Of course I don’t want you to rush into marriage,” her father said. “But I know how it feels to be alone. At least if I knew you were dating someone...”

“I date.” Sort of.

“Anyone steady?”

If steady dating was the formula for a lasting relationship, she’d be married now. She’d had a boyfriend for years and the whole thing had blown up in her face. “Dad, don’t worry about me. Just move on with your life. You deserve to be happy and I won’t stand in your way.”

“So, you’re not dating,” he said.

“Sure I am.”

The sports-car driver got out and her heart actually skipped a beat, which had never happened to her before. The driver was a man. Aviator sunglasses hid his eyes, adding to his mystique, but she could see enough to know he wasn’t a troll. He was thirtysomething and had dark hair. An expensive suit perfectly fit his tall frame, broad shoulders and narrow hips.

“Who?”

She blinked up at her father. “What?”

“Who are you dating?”

Her gaze slid to the stranger and she thought maybe white knights did ride to the rescue. It was worth a shot. What could happen? Even if this backfired, maybe her dad would get the message that she was serious about convincing him to back off.

“Him.” She angled her head. “I’m going out with him.”

Before her father could turn and look, she was on her way over to the man. Stopping in front of him she looked up and said in a low voice, “I will forever be in your debt if you go with me on what’s about to happen. It’s a family thing.” She put a fair amount of pleading into her tone and her expression. “I’m begging you. And I’ll make it up to you. I swear.”

One corner of his mouth rose but with the sunglasses she couldn’t see his expression. Her father joined them and there wasn’t time for the stranger to respond.

“Sydney Marie McKnight, what in the world is going on? You’ve got some explaining to do.”

“This is my dad, Tom McKnight.” She slid her hand into the man’s large palm and smiled up at him. “Dad, this is... This is the man I’ve been going out with.” Dear God, she didn’t know his name! She was holding his hand and didn’t feel a wedding ring, so that was something.

The man she’d “been going out with” pushed the sunglasses to the top of his head. Amusement sparkled in his eyes. They were blue—a shade just on the other side of piercing and guaranteed to make a woman weak in the knees.

“Nice to meet you, sir.” He held out his right hand. “Burke Holden.”

Okay, then. The sports-car-driving, expensive-suit-wearing stranger didn’t plan to rat her out just yet.

Her father shook the man’s hand, but suspicion was written all over his face. “So you’re going out with my daughter.”

“That’s what she tells me.”

Very smooth, she thought. Quick, too. Fate would no doubt charge an exorbitant fee for putting a man with exactly the right skill set directly in her path. But that was a problem for another time.

“I haven’t seen you around Blackwater Lake.” Tom folded his arms over his chest.

“My company owns that property up on the mountain.” It wasn’t a direct response, just the insinuation that he’d been spending a lot of time here.

“Where the new resort is going to be.”

“Yes, sir.”

Syd liked the feel of her hand in the stranger’s since the contact made it much easier to play this part. “You know better than anyone, Dad, that Mayor Goodson has worked hard to promote expansion in Blackwater Lake. She’s determined to do it in a responsible, balanced way—not duplicating established businesses but attract new ones. And that will create the need for more services, jobs, build the tax base in a slow, steady, stable way. More people move to town and their cars need maintenance and repair.”

“Part of the resort deal includes building a small regional airport,” Burke explained. “There’s no point in expanding anything without giving folks transportation choices to get here more easily.”

“Makes sense.” Tom nodded. “So you’re not looking to put Blackwater Lake Lodge out of business? Because my daughter-in-law owns it.”

Her family did actually, but Syd decided to keep that thought to herself. Camille Halliday McKnight had married her doctor brother, Ben. In the beginning, she’d had her doubts about the heiress but Cam was the sweetest, most down-to-earth filthy rich person Syd had ever met. And her brother was happy, which was the most important thing.

“No, sir. My company is interested in building condominiums with retail space below. A mixed-use development. The project is big enough to bring in revenue to existing local businesses. Workers will need lodging and food. It’s a win for everyone.”

“Maybe.” Eyes narrowed, Tom looked down at her but directed the next question to Burke. “How long have you known my daughter?”

Oh, boy. Time to jump in and help. “Dad, have you ever met someone and right from the beginning you felt as if you’d known them your whole life?”

“No. And in case you’re wondering, I noticed you didn’t answer the question.”

“Look, Dad—” The sound of the office phone ringing interrupted.

“I’ll get it. But we’re not finished with this, Sydney.” Her father gave her a dad look then headed inside to answer the call.

When they were alone, Syd blew out a long breath. “Thanks for going along, Mr. Holden—”

“Burke, please. After all, we’re going out. I’m the guy you met and felt as if you’d known all your life.” His voice was teasing, his smile incredibly attractive. “So, do you want to tell me what that was all about?”

“Not really, but I owe you an explanation.” She gathered her thoughts. “Here goes. Twenty-five words or less. You’re obviously a busy man.”

“Yes, but this is the most intriguing thing that’s ever happened to me.”

“I doubt that, but okay. If you say so.” A man who looked like him probably had intriguing encounters with women every day. “My dad has been a widower for a long time, actually since the day I was born.”

“Your mother died in childbirth?” He looked shocked.

“Yes. And for years everyone has been telling him to get a life, but he wouldn’t. Recently my older brother dropped by the house unexpectedly and found Dad in a compromising situation with the mayor. I can’t say more or the idea of him with a woman—doing stuff in bed—will be burned in my brain and require years of therapy. Long story short, for close to a year they’ve been secretly dating.”

“Way to go, Tom.” There was an admiring expression on Burke’s face when he glanced at the office doorway.

She laughed, then grew serious. “He’s found love again.”

“Good for him. But what does that have to do with you?”

“He wants to ask the mayor to marry him but won’t get on with it because of me. Both of my brothers have gone all white-picket-fence and settled down. Marriage, babies, the whole deal. Dad wants the same for me. Or at least to know I’m dating and moving somewhere in the vicinity of settling down.”

“I see.”

“You probably think I’m crazy, and who could blame you? You just had the bad luck to arrive as I was being grilled like raw hamburger. I’d just told him a big fat lie about going out with someone. He wanted to know who and there you were. I’m terribly sorry to have dragged you into the madcap McKnight family like this. But I really do appreciate what you did.”

“Like I said, very intriguing.” He slid his hands into his pockets. “What are you going to do now?”

“Nothing. He’s met you. That gives him a visual and he’ll propose to Loretta and they’ll get married.”

“Won’t you need a date for the wedding?”

“You’ll be conveniently out of town.” She smiled at him. “After all, you’re a very busy man. And at just the right time I’ll share the news that you and I have broken up.”

“Hmm.” The corner of his mouth quirked up. “Will I have dumped you?”

She laughed. “Not after you were so understanding. The least I can do is take the blame. Or it will just be one of those things that didn’t work out. No one’s fault.”

“But I’ll be heartbroken,” he protested.

“Something tells me you’ll find someone to make it better.”

“I’ve heard of speed dating,” he said, shaking his head, “but this is the fastest relationship I’ve ever had.”

“Aren’t you glad you were in the right place at the right time?” Wow, he really was smooth. Looks, charm and wit made him a triple threat. The single ladies of Blackwater Lake would be forming a line, but Syd wouldn’t be in it. She wasn’t interested in complicating her life. “And that reminds me—what brings you to McKnight Automotive?”

“Oil change.”

“Okay. It’s on the house.” When he opened his mouth to protest, she said, “I insist. I told you I’d make it worth your while.”

“All right. Thanks.”

“You helped me out of a jam so it’s the least I can do. Want to wait for it? We have a comfortable lounge with coffee, soft drinks and snacks.”

“No, someone is picking me up.” At that moment, a big, black SUV pulled into the driveway and parked behind the sports car. “As a matter of fact, there’s my ride.”

“Give me a number where I can reach you when it’s ready,” she said.

Burke pulled a business card out of his wallet and handed it over. “Thanks, Sydney Marie McKnight.”

“No—thank you.”

Burke smiled, then walked to the passenger side of the car and got in. The vehicle drove out of the lot and she watched until the taillights disappeared down the street.

Tom came out of the office. “Someone needs a tow out on Lakeview Drive. I’ll take care of it.”

“Okay.”

“Burke seems like a nice young man.”

“He is.” It wasn’t every guy who would get sucked into a scenario like that and just go with it. Points to the handsome stranger.

“I want the four of us to go out to dinner.”

“Four?” Her stomach dropped.

“Loretta and me. You and Burke.”

“I don’t know, Dad. He’s...busy,” she said lamely.

“Everyone is but he’s managed to find the time to date you.” Her father’s voice had an edge of suspicion. “And everyone has to eat. So we’ll double-date. Unless you’re lying to your old man.”

It was hard not to flinch. There probably wasn’t a place in hell low enough for her. Still, she was doing the wrong thing for the right reason and that had to count for something.

“Really, Dad. You raised me better than that.” This bad was all on her.

She cared about her father’s happiness. He’d spent so many years being sad and alone and he wasn’t getting any younger. He deserved happiness and she wouldn’t be the one who stood in his way. If she had to scheme to make sure it happened, by God she would.

The guy had seemed really easygoing and she was giving him a free oil change. What could it hurt to ask?

“I’ll check with Burke and see what I can set up.”

* * *

“I’ll call again tomorrow, son.” Burke held the cell phone to his ear, not sure why he was prolonging this.

“Okay.” His child’s familiar, formal tone was the polar opposite of enthusiastic.

“If you need anything, you know how to get in touch.”

“Yeah.” There was a long silence, then Liam said, “I have homework.”

“Right.” He probably wasn’t the only father on the planet whose kid would rather do homework than talk to him, but it sure felt that way. “I love you. ’Bye, son.”

“’Bye.”

Feeling guilty and inadequate, Burke hit the end-call button on his cell phone. He never knew what to say to his son and heard in the kid’s voice how much he was let down whenever they talked. Not calling would save them both the ordeal of an awkward conversation, but unlike his own father he wouldn’t take the easy way out. So he would be in touch every day while he was away from home.

His ex-wife was no better. During divorce negotiations she’d put up zero fight when he wanted physical custody. Now she lived in Paris and he had the best housekeeper in Chicago. Most of the time that made it okay for him not to be there. At least that’s what he told himself. Today he didn’t quite buy it. Meeting Sydney McKnight and her father, Tom, might account for that.

He found himself envying their obviously close relationship. She had gone above and beyond to convince her dad to move on with his life. That was loyalty, a happy by-product of a father who’d been a positive influence on his daughter. Burke couldn’t help wondering if twenty years from now Liam would go to that much trouble for him.

Normally he didn’t feel lonely on a business trip but today was different. In a lot of ways. He was sitting on a stool in the Blackwater Lake Lodge bar. There were a couple of businessmen, two women who’d stopped in for a drink after work and several couples having a predinner cocktail. He was nursing a beer while he waited for Sydney to personally deliver his car.

She’d contacted him and offered; now he found himself looking forward to seeing her again. Stereotyping probably described his attitude, but he’d never expected to see a woman so beautiful, sexy and smart working in a garage.

And speaking of beautiful women, there was one who’d just come around the corner from the lobby and waved when she saw him. Her last name was McKnight, too, but Camille was married to Sydney’s brother, Ben. Burke considered her a friend and she knew about his bad-relationship karma. That’s probably why she’d never told him about her husband’s sister.

She stopped beside him and they hugged. “Hi.”

“Hello, Mrs. McKnight. Marriage looks good on you.” In spite of his dark mood it was impossible not to smile in the presence of a woman glowing the way this one was. “You’re positively radiant.”

“Thank you, kind sir.” She put her hand on his arm. “Love does that to a person. You should try it sometime.”

“Been there, done that. It didn’t work out.”

She wrinkled her nose. “That wasn’t love. Brenda was selfish and self-absorbed. Probably still is.”

“Almost certainly,” he agreed.

The Holden and Halliday families had been friends for years and partners in various business ventures, including a small stake in the project he was here to work on.

“How’s Liam?” she asked. “He’s how old now?”

“Eight. Getting big.”

“You must miss him when you have to be away on business,” Cam said.

Burke nodded ruefully. “It’s not easy.”

“The time goes by so quickly.” She sighed. “My little girl is growing so fast.”

“That’s right. You’re a mom now.” He grinned. “Motherhood agrees with you. How old is...” He didn’t know the child’s name and shrugged apologetically.

“Amanda—Ben and I call her Mandy. She’s fifteen months. You have to meet her while you’re here.”

“I’d like that—”

A flash of red coming around the corner caught his eye and he did a double take. The blazer belonged to Sydney McKnight and she wore it over a white silk blouse tucked into jeans that fit her like a second skin. High heels made her legs look a lot longer than he knew they were. She was pretty in her work clothes and stunning in the sophisticated outfit.

Camille followed his gaze. “Ah, my sister-in-law. Wow, she really cleans up well. But then she always dresses like a fashion model when she’s not at the garage. She looks fabulous.”

Burke had noticed. Earlier her hair had been pulled into a sassy ponytail but now it fell like dark silk past her shoulders. Layers framed her small face and highlighted her big, brown eyes. She could be in Car and Driver magazine or grace the cover of Glamour or Cosmopolitan.

Sydney saw the two of them and looked surprised for a moment before heading in their direction. She stopped in front of them.

“Cam, it’s nice to see you.” She leaned in for a quick hug. Then she looked at him. “So, you’ve met my sister-in-law?”

“Actually we’ve known each other for years,” he explained. “As a matter of fact, the Hallidays have invested in my resort.”

Sydney blinked. “You own the development company?”

“With my cousin, yes.” Her surprised expression was genuine. “Why?”

“You just said your company owned the land.”

“We do,” he said.

“I just thought you were on the payroll, not the guy who signed the paychecks for everyone.” Syd glanced at Cam, who nodded a confirmation. “Be sure to share with my father that you know this guy. He had your back today.”

“Oh?” Cam said.

“That’s right,” Burke agreed. “I brought my car into the garage for an oil change and he gave me the third degree about the new project followed by a subtle warning that it better not put the lodge out of business.”

“I’ll be sure and tell Tom not to worry. He’s so thoughtful. I’m so happy he finally found someone, and the mayor is a good woman.” Cam looked first at Burke, then her gaze rested on Sydney. “Is this a coincidence you two meeting here?”

Sydney dangled a ring of keys on the end of her finger. “Like Burke said, he brought his car in for an oil change and I’m delivering it now.”

“And I appreciate the service.”

“Happy to oblige.”

“So everyone is happy.” Cam grinned at both of them then released a regretful sigh as she checked the watch on her wrist. “I’d love to stay and chat but I really need to get home to Ben and the baby.”

“Give them both a hug for me,” Sydney said.

“I will.” She looked at Burke. “We’ll put a date on the calendar soon for dinner so you can meet my husband and Mandy.”

“I look forward to it,” he said.

Cam smiled, then turned and walked out of the bar, leaving him alone with Sydney. Their gazes locked and he felt something squeeze tight inside him. He wasn’t sure what it meant but knew she’d completed her errand and would leave if he didn’t come up with a reason for her to stay. And he really wanted her to stay.

“Can I buy you a drink?” he asked. “It’s the least I can do. What with you going out of your way to bring my car back here to the lodge.”

“I’d like that.” She gracefully slid onto the bar stool beside his. Without hesitation she said, “Chardonnay, please.”

Burke signaled the bartender and asked her to open the best white she had. He toyed with the empty beer bottle in front of him. “I can’t decide if this delivery system of yours is good customer service or you just wanted to drive my car.”

“Both. And for the record it’s a really nice car,” she said, grinning. Then the amusement faded and she couldn’t quite meet his gaze, which was different from the uniquely direct woman he’d met this morning.

“You look very chic.”

She glanced down. “Thanks. Are you surprised?”

“Because you make your living working on cars?” He thought for a moment and decided to be completely honest. “You’re a beautiful woman, Sydney. I was surprised from the very first moment I saw you this morning.”

“What a lovely thing to say. And I appreciate it.” Her smile was a little shy, but also...nervous? “Because there’s something I’d like to ask. A really big favor—”

“Your drinks.” The twentysomething blonde waitress put down a small, square napkin, a wineglass and another beer in front of him. She picked up the empty bottle and said, “Let me know if you need anything else.”

“Will do. Thanks,” Burke said. He held up his beer. “To new friends.”

Sydney touched her glass to his bottle. “Friends.”

She was definitely nervous about something. Then her words sank in. Favor. Something to ask. “What’s up?”

“This is harder than I thought.”

“Just spit it out,” he advised. “That’s usually best.”

She took a long drink of Chardonnay, then set the glass down and looked him straight in the eye. “Nothing ventured...”

“Now I’m really curious.” His impression of her from their first meeting was of a confident, forthright woman so this hesitation struck him as out of character. “The worst that can happen is I’ll say no.”

“Actually that’s not the worst. And saying yes would not be the smartest answer.”

“Come on, Syd.” Shortening her name came easily and naturally, but he didn’t have time to wonder why that was. “Just tell me what’s on your mind.”

“Okay.” She took a deep breath. “I really need you to go out with me on a date.”

Chapter Two

“You probably think I’m a gold-digging stalker.”

“Why would I?” Burke was more curious and intrigued than anything else.

“Today at the garage you said your company owns the property on the hill that’s going to be developed. As in the way people say my company is doing a hostile takeover but I just work for them and do what I’m told. As in a highly placed executive or something. It didn’t cross my mind that you owned the company. I had no idea you were in the same league with Camille’s family. The one where billionaires come to play.”

“Surprise.”

Sitting on the bar stool, she angled her body toward him. “And I hit on you!”

“It happens.”

“I just bet it does.” There was humor in her dark eyes.

Usually getting hit on turned him off. Sydney McKnight had the opposite effect. Color him shocked by this unexpected reaction to a small-town girl.

“Seriously, Burke, I wasn’t hitting on you. Not exactly. Not you...you. Any single man who was in the right age group and happened to drive up at that moment would have done just as well.”

“Way to let the air out of my ego balloon.” He took a sip of his beer.

“I’m not being mean. Just honest.”

“I like that about you, the honesty part.” And so many other things. Like the graceful arch of her dark eyebrows. The way her full lips curved up as if she found something secretly amusing. And the intelligence sparkling in her eyes.

“The thing is, Burke—and I don’t mean this in an offensive way—but what you think of me isn’t my biggest problem.”

He rested his elbow on the edge of the bar and half turned toward her. “That would imply that you might be in a bit of a predicament.”

“That would be accurate.”

“I see.”

When he moved his leg, her knee bumped his thigh and it felt oddly intimate for a bar setting. More people had wandered in for drinks but it seemed as if he and Sydney were alone. He found himself wishing they were.

“Did I hurt your feelings, when I insinuated that your opinion of me isn’t important? That certainly wasn’t my intention.”

“Not at all. Do I look like my feelings are hurt?”

She sipped her white wine and studied him. “I don’t know you well enough to make that determination. There was just an odd expression on your face.”

Hmm, she was very perceptive. He’d have to watch himself around her. “I assure you my feelings are just fine. So tell me about your problem.”

“Well it’s like this. My father is a little skeptical about our relationship.”

Burke laughed. “Can you blame him? It does feel suspiciously like a scenario from a TV sitcom.”

“I don’t know what came over me.” She sighed and shook her head. “You have no reason to believe this but I swear I’ve never done anything like that in my life. Accosting a strange man and pulling him into my situation.”

“Accost is sort of a strong word.”

She grinned. “I mean this in the nicest possible way, but you’re very good at going with the flow. Lying without really telling an untruth.”

“Thank you, I think.”

“Seriously, it was very generous of you not to rat me out on the spot.”

“I’m a generous guy.”

“Why didn’t you, by the way? Tell my dad I was crazy, I mean.”

That was a very good question and one he didn’t really have an answer for. “Chalk it up to curiosity about what you were up to.”

She nodded, then looked down and toyed with her cocktail napkin. “The thing is...” Her gaze lifted, meeting his. “Dad wants proof that we’re actually dating.”

“You mean like photographs with a time and date stamp? Movie-ticket stubs? Eyewitness accounts?”

“If only.” She sighed. “He wants to go out to dinner. A double date. You and me. Dad and Loretta—Mayor Goodson.” She held up a hand to stop any protest and went on quickly. “Just think about it. I swear this isn’t a scheme to snag a wealthy husband, but I can see where you might think that.”

Normally that’s exactly what he would think, followed quickly by the thought that it was a wasted effort. He would never get married again. Once was enough, and he’d learned he wasn’t a very good husband. The best thing to come out of the relationship was his son, but he wasn’t a very good father, either.

“I appreciate you hearing me out, Burke.” She finished the wine in her glass. “I love my father very much and would do anything to see that he’s happy.”

“He’s lucky to have a daughter like you.”

Frustration tightened her delicate features. “If he was really lucky, he’d have a daughter who was settled and he wouldn’t have to worry about her. I think I’m a big disappointment to him.”

“I sincerely doubt that. And take it from me—settling down with the wrong person is a bigger problem than being alone.”

“Sounds like the voice of experience talking.” She studied him for a moment, then said, “But you don’t have to tell me about it. That’s personal, and on a need-to-know basis. I don’t need to know.”

“There’s not much to tell and if you really wanted the information it would be easy to do an online search.” He tapped his fingers on the bar. “Most people go into marriage believing it’s the right thing and I’m no exception. It wasn’t right. Things didn’t work and we got a divorce. Completely amicable and civilized. Including dealing with the custody of our son.”

“You have a child.” It wasn’t a question.

“Yes.” His fingers tightened on his beer bottle.

When he didn’t say more, she nodded. “You know, I have this ridiculous urge to say I’m sorry. But it sounds like you’re okay with everything.”

“I am.” Except for the fact that his son would always carry the scar of coming from a broken home and a mother who showed no interest in him.

“Anyway, think it over. My cell number is on the card I gave you.” She picked up her small purse from the bar and slid the strap onto her shoulder. “Give me a call and let me know if you’re in for round two of this covert operation.”

“You’re leaving?”

“Yes. I’ve taken up enough of your time.”

No, she hadn’t taken up nearly enough, he thought. “But you dropped off my car. How are you going to get home?”

“I’ll call Dad. Thanks for listening, Burke.” She slid to the edge of the bar chair, getting ready to go.

“Wait.” He put his hand over hers to stop her. “I have a question.”

“Okay. Shoot.” Her gaze lowered to where he was touching her, but she didn’t pull away.

“I can’t help thinking that every unattached guy in town would want to go out with you. Wouldn’t you be better off with one of them?”

“I had one of them.” Her eyes darkened for a moment before she smiled, an expression with just the barest hint of bitterness. “It didn’t work out. Ancient history.” She slid off the stool. “The fact is, you’re the guy who had the bad luck to pull into McKnight Auto Repair at just that moment. I shot my mouth off and you went along with it. Now you’re either in or you’re not.”

“And what if I’m not?”

“My father will not propose to the woman he loves and live happily ever after. If you’re okay with ruining his life...” A teasing smile turned up the corners of her full mouth. “No guilt.”

“Right. Guilt doesn’t motivate me.” Unless Liam was the one using it. “But count me in.”

“Really?” A bright smile lit up her whole face. “You’re sure?”

“Yes. I would love to have dinner with your father and the mayor. And you, of course.”

“Oh, Burke. I could kiss you.”

“Feel free,” he said generously.

“Right. You don’t really mean that.”

Yes, he really did. “I’m happy to help.”

“I don’t know why you’re willing to go along with this but I’m grateful. Seriously, thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

Oddly enough it had been an easy decision. The simple answer was that he’d agreed because she asked and he wanted to see her again. Granted, he could have asked her out, but he’d already have had a black mark against him because of turning down her request. Now she owed him.

She leaned against the bar, a thoughtful look on her face. “I’ve never done anything like this before, but I know my father. He’ll ask questions. In fact he already did. We’re going to need a cover story. How we met. How long we’ve been dating. That sort of thing.”

“It makes sense to be prepared.”

“So we should get together soon and discuss it.”

“What about right now?” he suggested.

Her eyes widened. “You don’t waste time, do you?”

“No time like the present. Have you already had dinner?”

She shook her head. “Why?”

“Do you have a date?” If not, there was a very real possibility that she’d changed into the red blazer, skinny jeans and heels just for him. Probably wanted to look her best while making her case. Still, he really hoped she wasn’t meeting another guy.

She gave him an ironic look. “Seriously? If I was going out with someone, I wouldn’t have asked you to participate in this crazy scheme.”

“Crazy? I don’t know, it’s a decent proposal.” He shrugged. “So you’re free. Have dinner with me. What about the restaurant here at the lodge? It’s pretty good.”

“The best in town.” But she shook her head. “Too intimate.”

So she didn’t want to be alone with him. “Oh?”

“Something more public. People should see us together.” She snapped her fingers. “The Grizzly Bear Diner would be perfect.”

“I know the place. Both charming. And romantic.”

“You’re either being a smart-ass or a snob.”

“Heaven forbid.”

“You haven’t been there yet?” she asked.

“No, I have.”

He signaled the bartender and when she handed the bill to him, he took care of it. Then he settled his hand at the small of her back and said, “Let the adventure begin.”

* * *

Sydney sat in the passenger seat beside Burke as he expertly drove the expensive sports car from Blackwater Lake Lodge to the Grizzly Bear Diner on Main Street. She wasn’t sure what she itched to get her hands on more—the steering wheel of the hot car, again, or the man holding it. She’d said she would have hit on any single man who happened to drive into McKnight’s Automotive just then, but, wow, she couldn’t imagine anyone more perfect.

She would be lying if she said him having money wasn’t cool. But after talking in the bar, she was much more intrigued by his wit and sense of humor. There was a glint in his blue eyes that could be about mischief or something more sizzling and she didn’t particularly care which.

“Here we are.” He pulled the car to a stop right in front of the diner.

“That’s unusual.”

“What?”

She met his gaze. “Getting a spot out front. I guess since this is a weeknight and school just started up after the summer, it must be a slow night.”

“Are you disappointed?”

“Not really,” she said. “But more people would help spread the word to my dad that we’re an item.”

He exited the driver’s side and came around to open her door. Offering his hand to help her out, he said, “It doesn’t look very crowded but we’ll work with what we’ve got. Maximize resources.”

“Okay.”

When he locked the car and took her hand in his she was instantly stricken with a bad case of the tingles—from head to toe. Every nerve was on high alert and threatening to light up all her feminine hormones.

The buzz died when they walked inside and Syd recognized the new hostess, who just happened to be an old friend. Well, former friend. More of a frenemy. Violet Walker—actually it was Stewart now. The woman looked up from behind the wooden stand with the sign that said Please Wait To Be Seated. The automatic “welcome to the diner” smile froze on her face.

Still holding Syd’s hand, Burke must have felt a reaction because he asked, “Something wrong?”

Other than the fact that she’d come face-to-face for the first time in years with her former bestie who’d stolen and married the man Syd had expected would propose to her?

“No,” she answered in a tight voice. “Everything’s just peachy.”

They walked closer to the other woman and Syd said, “Hello, Violet.”

“Sydney. Hi.” The familiar blue eyes were filled with guilt.

“I didn’t know you—and Charlie—were back.”

“Surprise.”

Syd was pretty much at her tolerance limit for surprises tonight. That didn’t stop her from noticing that Violet’s thick brunette hair was shorter, cut in an edgy bob that was very flattering.

“You look great, Syd.”

“So do you.”

That was no automatic response. Violet was curvier and it looked good on her. She’d always been too thin. If anything she was even prettier now than when she’d begged forgiveness for falling in love with Sydney’s boyfriend.

Violet looked at the man still holding Syd’s hand. “Nice to see you again, Mr. Holden.”

“It’s Burke, remember?” His tone hinted that he’d said it more than once. But he’d said he knew the place, which probably meant he’d been here a few times.

“Right. You’ve been in here enough to know everyone’s name.” The other woman’s smile was strained. “Two for dinner?”

“Yes. A booth in the back if you have it.”

“Right this way.”

There weren’t many people in the place, but all of them were long-time residents of Blackwater Lake who knew what had happened between the former best friends. As they walked clear to the back of the diner, Syd felt all of them looking, wondering, and decided a slow night had been a blessing in disguise. Not that news of her and Burke wouldn’t spread, but it was easier to see Violet again in front of a smaller crowd.

Violet stopped at an empty booth. “How’s this?”

“Perfect,” Burke responded.

“Enjoy your dinner.” The words were professional and matched the smile on her face.

When she was gone and they were seated across the table from each other, Burke asked, “So, want to tell me what that was all about?”

“Not really, no.”

He opened his mouth to ask more, but the diner owner walked over. Michelle Crawford, a brunette whose hair was streaked with silver, was somewhere in her fifties. Her brown eyes were filled with concern.

“Hi, Syd. Burke, it’s good to see you again.” She settled a look on Syd. “You didn’t know Violet and Charlie moved back, did you? And this is the first time you’ve seen her since...” She lowered her voice. “You know. I could tell by the expression on your face.”

Any hope that no one had noticed her reaction went right out the window. “No,” she said, “I didn’t know they were back.”

“Oh, honey—” Michelle touched her shoulder. “Your dad should have warned you.”

“He knows?” The words were automatic, but obviously he did. “Probably a heads-up slipped his mind. But it’s fine, Michelle. Been a long time. Don’t give it another thought.”

“All right, honey. Glad you’re okay.” She smiled, then pointed to the menus stacked behind the napkin holder. “I’ll let you look over the choices and be back in a few minutes to take your orders.”

When she was gone, Burke’s eyebrows drew together. “Whether you want to or not, it’s probably best that you bring me up to speed on your ancient history.”

“Are you going to tell me about yours?” He was divorced and had a son. She was curious about that.

“As it pertains to our agreement, yes. Like you said—need-to-know basis. But Blackwater Lake is your turf. And what happened to you is probably something you would tell a boyfriend.”

Before Syd could respond, an older couple walked over to the table. Tillie Newman and her husband, Pete, were friends of her father and brought their Ford F-150 truck in for an oil change every six months, like clockwork.

“Hi, you two.” Syd looked at them, trying to figure out how to deflect what she knew was coming. “Mr. and Mrs. Newman, have you met Burke Holden? His company is building the resort we’ve heard so much about.” She glanced at him. “Burke, this is Tillie and Pete Newman.”

“Nice to meet you.” He stood and shook hands with them.

“Same here. Welcome to Blackwater Lake.” Tillie’s brown eyes brimmed with sympathy when she looked at Syd. “Sorry to interrupt, but we saw you and Violet. You could just cut the awkwardness with a knife. I just had to make sure you’re all right, sweetheart.”

“I am. That’s all water under the bridge. Or over the dam. Whatever the saying is. No need to be concerned about me.”

Tillie looked relieved. “I’m glad. We always liked Violet and Charlie. Real nice to see them move back where they both grew up. It had to be hard, what happened between you.”

It had been incredibly hard at the time, Syd recalled. “Time heals all.”

“There’s my girl.” Tillie smiled and said, “We’ll leave you two alone now. Come along, Pete.”

“Take care, Syd. Truck’s due for that oil change soon,” the older man said.

“See you then.” She lifted her hand in farewell and watched their backs for as long as she could. When procrastinating was no longer possible, she met Burke’s curious gaze. “So you’re probably jumping to all kinds of conclusions.”

“It doesn’t take a world-class detective to connect the dots.”

Syd nodded. “The Charlie they mentioned is a guy I dated in high school and college. I thought he was moving toward a marriage proposal. It turned out that he was—just not to me.”

“Violet?” he ventured.

“Yes. She was my best friend since first grade.”

“That must have been tough.” He reached over and covered her hand with his own. “He’s the one you mentioned. The one who didn’t work out.”

“Yup.” She glanced away for a moment. “This is the first time I’ve seen her since all that went down.”

“And?”

She knew he was asking how she was feeling about it all. “I was shocked to see her since my father failed to share the news of her return. But...”

“What?” he asked.

“I was so hurt and angry back then.” She shrugged. “It’s all gone. It really is okay that they’re back. Their parents are here and I’m sure happy to have them close by again.”

“So you’re sure you don’t want to postpone our planning session for another time and place yet to be determined?”

“I’m sure,” she said adamantly. “And even if I wasn’t, no way I would leave. McKnights are made of sterner stuff than that.”

“Okay, then.” He grabbed the menus and handed her one. “What do you recommend?”

“You tell me. Seems you’ve been here enough that you’re on a first-name basis with people.”

“It’s a small town.” His look was ironic. “And there aren’t many dining choices. I’ve been here a little over a month and have made the rounds. More than once.”

“Is this where you pitch the new resort as a solution to our cuisine choice issues?”

“No. This is where I remind you that even if I’d only been here once, I’d stick out like a fly in milk. I’m...memorable.”

“True.” It was hard to believe she hadn’t met him before today. Not only because he was right about it being a small town. But she also felt as if they’d known each other much longer. She grinned. “As far as this menu—I like the She Bear burger.”

He looked down and read the description and raised an eyebrow. “Jalapeño? Mushrooms, bacon and Swiss cheese?”

“I hear disapproval in your tone. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it.”

He was studying the choices and a sort of tender look came over him. “Liam—my son—would like this place.”

“You’re looking at the Baby Bear combo.” When he nodded she said, “You miss him, don’t you?”

“Yeah.” There was an expression in his eyes that said he didn’t want to elaborate. “I think I’ll have the Papa Bear combo.”

When they closed their menus it was a sign to Michelle and she was back to take their orders. “I’ll have these out in a few minutes.”

After the diner owner was gone, Burke rested his forearms on the edge of the table and met her gaze. “So what questions do you think your father will ask?”

“For starters he’ll want to know where and how we met. Just so you know, he won’t go for an online dating service.”

“Oh?”

Syd settled the paper napkin over her knees then straightened the knife, fork and spoon that had been wrapped up inside it. “He’s an old-fashioned guy and doesn’t believe ‘the machines,’ as he calls them, should be a part of meeting your soul mate.”

“Okay. So it has to be a plausible face-to-face encounter.” He linked his fingers. “Where do you hang out that our paths could have crossed?”

“Bar None, the bar where locals go. Potter’s Ice Cream Parlor and The Harvest Café. Here at the diner. But word would have gotten out if we even talked for five minutes under the watchful eye of Michelle Crawford.”

She looked around the diner, with its pictures of grizzly bears on the walls. At the front of the place there was a counter lined with swivel stools. The back half had scattered tables in the center of the room and booths lining the perimeter.

“Okay. Any ideas?” he asked.

“There’s a multiscreen movie theater at the mall about forty-five minutes away.”

“I’ve been there,” he said.

“Do you like movies?”

“Yes. Besides that it’s something a person can do alone and not get pity stares.”

“Oh?”

He nodded. “I’ve noticed that when you eat by yourself people give you weird looks.”

She realized that he was lonely and it took considerable effort to keep pity out of the look she gave him. It was her sense that he wouldn’t appreciate the sentiment.

“So, Mr. Gazillionaire Real-Estate Developer, is the crown too tight? Are the jewels too heavy?”

One corner of his mouth curved up. “I’m not sure what that means.”

“Just that you have buckets of money, expensive clothes, a car that most people drool over and you’re concerned about the way people look at you?”

He shifted on the seat. “When you put it like that...the correct response would be no.”

“That’s what I thought.” The glint was back in his eyes and she much preferred that. “So we could have met at the movies.”

“Is that plausible for you?”

“I go alone all the time. It’s relaxing after a marathon shopping spree. For the record no one pities a solo shopper.”

“Good to know.” He nodded. “I’m guessing we’ll need to explore explanations for why no one has seen us around town together.”

“That one is easy.” She leaned forward. “People in this town talk and we just wanted to keep it quiet. Just for us.”

“Very romantic,” he commented. “That works.”

“Sure does. It’s the explanation I got from my dad about why he kept his romance with Mayor Goodson under wraps. A lot longer than what you and I are talking about.” She was still irked about his secrecy. This small charade with Burke might be a little bit about payback. And her comment that she was made of sterner stuff wasn’t just hot air. She could have handled the news about his new relationship. “I’m too old for him to give me the ‘do as I say, not as I do’ line.”

They discussed things and tossed questions back and forth until he held up his hands in surrender. “I feel as if I should be taking notes.”

“You’re right.” She nodded. “Kiss rule.”

“Excuse me?” One eyebrow rose questioningly. The look in his blue eyes turned a little sharper, a little sexier and a lot interested.

“K-I-S-S. Keep it simple, stupid.”

“Ah.” His gaze never left hers and the intensity level escalated.

“You were thinking something else?”

“Yes. And before you judge, remember this is logical.”

“Enlighten me,” she said drily.

“We may be forced into kissing. After all this—you and me as a couple—needs to be convincing.”

Their burgers were delivered, breaking the sensuous spell. But all through dinner she had a hard time not staring at his mouth and wondering what his lips would feel like against her own. Was he a good kisser? She would put money on it.

Sydney found she was looking forward to “dating” Burke Holden and was intrigued at the prospect of kissing him.

Chapter Three

Two days after his strategy session with Sydney at the diner, Burke was sitting in the five-star restaurant at Blackwater Lake Lodge nursing a Scotch while waiting for her to join him with her father and the mayor. He was watching when Tom McKnight and Mayor Loretta Goodson walked in with a stunning, dark-haired woman wearing a little black dress. He recognized Sydney, but...holy shoot, it felt as if all the blood drained from his head and proceeded to points south of his belt. Fortunately muscle memory and manners took over so he was able to not embarrass himself and politely stand up as the trio approached.

Burke held out his hand to the older man and said, “It’s good to see you again, sir.”

“Likewise.” Tom McKnight looked at the older woman beside him. “I think you already know Loretta?”

“We’ve had a number of meetings about the resort.” Burke shook her hand. “Madam Mayor, it’s always a pleasure.”

“I couldn’t agree more, Burke.” Loretta Goodson was a very attractive brunette and probably looked a whole lot younger than she actually was. All those meetings had proved that she was a tough negotiator who cared deeply about her town.

Syd smiled up at him. “Hi.”

“Hi, yourself.” He slid his arm loosely around her waist and bent to kiss her cheek. It wasn’t the way he really wanted to kiss her for the first time, but appropriate for the situation. “Why don’t we all sit.”

“Good idea,” Syd agreed.

The Fireside Restaurant service was impeccable and tonight was no exception. When the newcomers were seated, their waiter appeared to take drink orders, then promised to give them time before bringing over dinner menus.

“So, where did you two meet?” Tom didn’t waste any time and had come right to the point.

Since the man was looking directly at him Burke fielded the question. “I’m something of a movie buff and when you’re alone in a new town it’s an entertaining place to kill a couple of hours.”

“Syd likes movies, too.” Fortunately her dad jumped to the implied conclusion. “But how is it you managed to keep secret the fact that you’re seeing my daughter?”

“Come on, Dad,” Syd admonished. “Isn’t that a little like the pot calling the kettle black?”

“She has a point, Tom.” Loretta’s voice was quiet but firm. “We’ve been seeing each other for months. I know some of that was about protecting your children, but part of it was about keeping it just for us.”

Burke looked at Syd who had an “I told you so” expression in her eyes. She’d definitely called that one.

The waiter brought their drinks, then came back with menus when Burke gave him the signal. It was quiet at the table as everyone scrutinized the choices. He’d eaten here enough in the last few weeks to know what he wanted and would much rather have looked Sydney over. Tonight she’d pulled her hair off her face and back into a messy side bun, leaving her neck bare.

The urge to taste her skin just below her ear was very powerful and if the two of them were alone at a quiet table in the shadows, that’s exactly what he would have done. The strong attraction he felt certainly helped to pull off the pretense of having an interest in her because it really wasn’t a pretense.

He was interested.

When everyone was ready the waiter took their orders. As it happened, he and Sydney chose almost the same things. Fireside chopped salad, although she asked for it without blue cheese crumbles. Filet mignon, medium rare. Baked potato with sour cream, butter and chives on the side.

Syd gave him a look that was half saucy, half surprised. “You have good taste.”

Tom’s expression was still just this side of skeptical. “He hasn’t brought you here before?”

“If he had, you would have known about it,” his daughter reminded him. “Camille owns the place and is normally the soul of discretion when it comes to lodge guests. But family is a different matter entirely. She couldn’t keep something like that from you.”

“It’s a good quality in a daughter-in-law.” Tom leveled his gaze at Burke as if to say he’d better have equally good qualities.

“Toast.” Loretta raised her glass of white wine. “To new beginnings and happy endings.”

They all touched glasses then took a sip of their respective drinks. When he glanced at Syd, he noticed a guilty look on her face and questioned whether or not he would have recognized the expression if he wasn’t in on this scheme of hers. It made him wonder about her growing up and who better to ask than her father.

“What was Sydney like when she was a little girl?”

The older man looked fondly at his daughter. “Stubborn. Determined to get her way. She didn’t like dolls the way other little girls did, but that could be from having two older brothers.” He grinned. “Of course, she had me wrapped around her little finger.”

“You did a wonderful job raising her,” Burke said and sincerely meant it.

“She raised herself.”

Loretta shook her head and put her hand on his arm. “You don’t give yourself nearly enough credit, Tom. I know how difficult that time was for you, suddenly losing your wife. Then you were thrown into the deep end of the pool with two young boys and an infant daughter to bring up by yourself, while running your own business. The McKnight kids didn’t get to be successful adults without your guidance and being a steady role model for them.”

“You’re making me blush.” He took Loretta’s hand in his own and smiled tenderly at her.

“I could go on torturing you,” she teased. “I know how you hate to have anyone singing your praises.”

Burke watched the older couple banter and laugh, comfortable with each other and clearly in love. From what Syd had said and Loretta had just corroborated, he knew Tom McKnight had had a rough go of it and had been alone for a long time. Burke realized how much his daughter loved him. She wanted him to be happy and was going above and beyond so that he would take the next step in his relationship.

A small deception. Wrong thing; right reason. Theirs was a close and loving relationship forged by his being there day after day. It made Burke feel even more guilty than usual about the long stretches of time he spent away from his own son.

Dinner was really pleasant and surprisingly interrogation-free, right up until the dessert menus arrived.

Syd looked hers over. “I’d love some coffee and just a few bites of something sweet.”

“Order it and just eat what you want,” Burke suggested.

“That’s so wasteful,” she protested. “And, unlike my leftover steak, dessert can be pretty unappetizing the next day.”

“We could split something.”

“I’m not sure we could agree and I don’t want you to compromise for me.”

“I’d be happy to compromise for you,” he said. “But what if we do agree?”

“Okay. Tell me what your favorite is.” She tilted her head to the side, making her neck look longer and even more tempting.

Quite possibly a nibble right at the juncture of her neck and shoulder could be his favorite, but that wasn’t what she’d meant. So he answered honestly. “The mile-high chocolate cake. I’ve been all over the world and it’s the best I’ve ever tasted. Anywhere.”

“What do you know?” She smiled as if he’d given her the moon. “That just happens to be my all-time favorite, too.”

“Then the deal is sealed.”

When the waiter returned they ordered coffee all-around, one piece of cake and four forks. It was definitely enough for the whole table to share.

“Speaking of deals...are you two getting serious?” Tom glanced at Burke, then at Sydney.

“Dad!” She looked mortified. “Inappropriate.”

“Not for a father,” he insisted.

“Are you asking me what my intentions are?” Burke questioned.

“Sounds old-fashioned when you put it like that, but I guess that is what I’m asking.”

This potential line of inquiry hadn’t come up in their planning session. He looked at Sydney, wondering if she wanted to tackle that one, but she still looked shocked and speechless.

“Well, sir, for now we’re taking things slow. Just getting to know each other. We both agree that’s the best idea. Then we’ll see what happens.”

Tom mulled it over, then nodded. “Seems wise to do that.”

Burke had to conclude that they’d passed the first hurdle. He’d done his best to answer everything honestly and still keep his word to Syd. But he realized that he liked her a lot and that was another topic they hadn’t talked about. What if he actually wanted to date her?

In fact, tonight was their first official date and he was seriously considering taking things to the next level.

* * *

Sydney watched Burke charge the dinner-for-four to his room at the lodge and she was incredibly appreciative of the gesture. He and her father had done the masculine tug-of-war over the check that men always do, but Burke, as they said, was younger and faster. Although thanks had been expressed, she made a mental note to thank him again for his generosity the next time she saw him. And offer to split the bill with him.

The four of them stood and walked toward the restaurant exit, her father and Loretta in the lead. Burke leaned over and whispered close to her ear, “How do you think we did?”

It was difficult to form a reply, what with her unexpected breathlessness at his nearness. But she managed to recover. “We did pretty well,” she admitted. “Loretta jumping in for backup was unexpected, but certainly strengthened the narrative we were promoting.”

“Good. Apparently I played my part adequately, then.”

“Adequate sets a very low bar for what you did. Your act was perfect.”

Before she could say more, the couple in front of them stopped and waited. They were standing by the rustic stone fireplace in the lodge lobby with the registration desk nearby. Leather sofa and chairs formed a comfortable conversation area.

Tom extended his hand. “Burke, thanks again for dinner. I look forward to getting to know you better.”

“Same here, sir.” He looked at the mayor. “I believe we have a meeting this week.”

She nodded. “We need to discuss local concerns about the resort.”

“I’ll be there to answer any and all questions.” He didn’t look the least bit concerned and his superior confidence was incredibly attractive.

“Are you ready to go, Syd?” her dad asked.

“You’re leaving?” Burke put his hand at the small of her back.

“I rode into town with Dad and Loretta. So...” She shrugged.

“Stay for a nightcap.” His eyes had just the right amount of intensity for a smitten man who didn’t want to say good-night yet. “I’ll drive you home.”

She wanted to protest that this wasn’t part of the plan, but that would blow their cover for sure. “You must be tired after a long day. I don’t want you to go out of your way.”

“If I can spend more time with you, driving you home is not going out of my way.” Now a definite challenge joined the intensity in his eyes.

Syd wasn’t sure what game he was playing and was wary of jumping in with her “come and get me” high heels. She’d picked this particular dress on purpose, knowing it was a little dangerous. The point had been to prove that she’d been dressing for a man’s approval. This was an inconvenient time to realize it had done the job maybe a bit too well. When push came to shove she really had no choice.

She gave him her most brilliant smile and said, “I would love to stay. You don’t mind, do you, Dad?”

“Of course not. As long as you make it to work on time in the morning.”

She kissed his cheek while her own was flushed with the implication that she’d spend the night with Burke. “I won’t be late tonight.”

“But don’t wait up,” Burke said. “When Syd and I start talking, we lose track of time.”

“Take good care of my girl.” Her dad had that protective expression on his face.

“I will, sir. Good night.”

When the older couple was gone, Burke took her hand and tucked it into the bend of his elbow before turning toward the lodge bar, where she’d first met him to propose this unlikely collaboration. Somehow the situation had slipped from her control and having a drink could further fuzzy her faculties on top of what her attraction to him did. Instinct was telling her she should stay sharp.

She looked up at Burke. “What about a walk instead?”

“In those shoes?” He took one step back and the corners of his mouth curved into a smile as he leisurely studied the four-inch pumps and her legs, all the way to where the hem of the dress stopped above her knees.

She shivered at the male approval clearly etched on his face. “I’m tough. Have you ever heard that Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did, only backwards and in heels?”

“I have actually. But I’m not quite sure what your point is since we’re not dancing.”

Says who? she thought.

“I’m not quite sure I had one,” she admitted. “But as you probably know, there’s a lighted walking path on the lodge grounds with benches here and there. If my feet can’t take it, we can stop.”

“A walk sounds good. It’s a beautiful evening.”

Burke put his fingers over hers, trapping her hand on his arm as they walked out the rear exit. To anyone observing them, they were a couple. Body language to support the story.

The evening air was cool, but not cold. As they strolled slowly down the cement path she noticed the moon peeking through the pine trees scattered over the grassy area.

“Did you know there was a full moon tonight?” she asked.

“No.” He looked up. “But now that you mention it, this one is more beautiful than it is in Chicago.”

“It occurs to me that the stage is perfectly set for romance. It’s just a darn shame this is all going to waste on us.”

“How do you mean?”

“We’re just playing at it.”

“That’s the rumor,” he answered mysteriously.

“And speaking of starting rumors...” She’d intended to express her gratitude for dinner the next time she saw him but hadn’t realized she’d be alone with him quite so soon. But now was as good a time as any. “I just wanted to tell you how much I appreciate what you’re doing for my dad. I didn’t expect you to buy dinner tonight and I appreciate that so much. If you’d like I can reimburse you—”

“Of course not. Why would you think that?”

“I didn’t mean to offend you. And I don’t want to take advantage of you. You’re doing me a favor so I feel as if I should take the financial responsibility.”

“No.” He shook his head. “For so many reasons. But I sincerely meant what I said about it being my pleasure. I like your father. And he’s a lucky man. Loretta is a wonderful woman. So I’m happy to give their happy ending a nudge.”

How sweet was that?

She leaned into him just a little. “And I mean it when I say how appreciative I am for your participation.” She thought about his moves from the moment he stared at her when she walked in, the kiss on the cheek, meaningful glances through dinner. Meeting his gaze, she said, “You’re very good at this. The pretending, I mean. Should I be worried?”

“I’m getting whiplash. You went from appreciative to worried in a nanosecond.”

“Don’t get me wrong. I’m thankful for your talent but it makes me think you have practice.”

“No.” He laughed. “Just chalk it up to negotiating skills put to another purpose. I pay attention to details. I’m results-oriented and logistics are my strong suit.”

“Well, you’re playing your part to the hilt. That’s really unexpected.”

“Call me an overachiever.” He stopped suddenly and looked down at her, something dark and exciting drifting into his eyes. “But consider this—did it ever occur to you that I’m not playing?”

She wasn’t able to completely absorb the meaning of his words before he lowered his mouth to hers. The touch was soft and sweet. Seeking and seductive. His hand moved over her back, fingers brushing the bare skin. Shivers slid up and down her spine and her nerve endings started to dance. Heat balled in her belly when he put his arm around her waist and settled her more firmly against him.

It wasn’t supposed to happen, but she kissed him back. She couldn’t stop herself, didn’t want to. Had she unknowingly given off vibes? Somehow let him know how attractive she found him? Whatever the reason, she was enjoying the heck out of this.

When he pulled back and looked at her, she could hear and see that his breathing was unsteady. She would have taken a great deal of satisfaction from that fact except hers was ragged, too. That wasn’t good.

They stared at each other for several moments and she knew she had to say something. Keep it light, she thought. “That was a nice touch. Like I said, acting is your strong suit. But I’m surprised that you kissed me.”

“The fact that you’re a beautiful woman doesn’t explain my motivation?”

Oh, how she wanted to be flattered, but it wasn’t wise to go there. “It would, except that you’ve been seen with some of the world’s most beautiful women.”

“But none of them can keep the engine in my car purring like a kitten. And I don’t mean that as a double entendre. You are a rare, unusual and special woman.”

“Thank you.” With every fiber of her being she wanted to believe that. “But remember we have to keep our eye on the ball. There are lofty goals at stake.”

“It’s never far from my mind.”

“Good. Then you understand when I say that you can’t be kissing me for no reason.”

“Maybe I had one.” He indicated the light just beside them that made their every move visible to the people milling around the lodge patio not far away. A member of the staff was straightening the outdoor furniture.

“So we could be seen. It’s what a man dating a woman would do.”

How silly was she to be even the tiniest bit disappointed to learn that he didn’t mean it? Later she would give herself a stern talking-to about how ridiculous her reaction was.

“Yes. And speaking of dating, we have to plan our next move. Your father’s remark about looking forward to getting to know me better was his way of letting us know he’s watching.”

“I got that, too.”

And she got something else from tonight. A warning that her control regarding Burke Holden was nothing but an illusion. He was a strong man, a powerful man accustomed to getting his own way. She’d dated guys and broken up with them and never looked back, but she had a sneaking suspicion that this could be different.

That didn’t make her happy, but unfortunately she was stuck.

Chapter Four

On his way to the county buildings on the other side of Blackwater Lake, Burke drove past McKnight Auto and glanced over. Several cars were lined up waiting for service orders to be written up, but there was no sign of Sydney. He hadn’t realized how much he’d hoped for a glimpse of her until he didn’t get one. If she hadn’t approached him with her unorthodox proposal, would he have asked her out?

On his part the attraction had been instantaneous so there was a better-than-even chance he would have. But after dinner with her father and the mayor the other night, it was crystal clear that if he’d followed his usual pattern of avoiding a woman he would have missed something...exciting? Special? Life-changing?

Maybe all of the above. But whatever happened, this thing could never be permanent. When it came to his personal life, permanent and forever weren’t part of the vocabulary.

He turned left onto Mountain Street and drove a couple of blocks. The city and county government offices were on the right. He knew where the mayor’s office was, having been there several times, and the construction-permits office was somewhere under the same roof.

He parked in the rear lot and walked through the heavy glass doors into the lobby. There was a directory on the wall and Burke saw that the building inspector’s office number was located on the second floor. There was an elevator, but he found the stairs and headed up. Too many hours behind a desk could add weight to his midsection. He worked out daily at the lodge fitness center but never missed an opportunity to move more.

When he was home, Liam frequently asked him to play ball, any kind. Baseball, football, soccer. Too often Burke had to say no because of work commitments. He wished he could delegate a lot of details and be home more, but he’d tried that a few times and there was no one he trusted enough. Things got missed, delays resulted and when that happened it cost the company millions. Burke was building an already successful business with his cousin Sloan and someday it would be Liam’s. He felt an obligation to leave it more profitable than he’d found it.

Burke located the office and went inside. There was a waiting area with a couch, chairs and a coffee table. A high desk was situated on the left and he walked over. A blonde woman somewhere in her late thirties or early forties was standing there.

“Hi. I’m Burke Holden.”

“Sally Gardiner,” she said, introducing herself. “I’ve heard about you.”

“Really?” He in no way meant to flirt, but what was a guy supposed to say to that? Just be friendly. “I hope it was positive.”

“You’re the fella who’s building that new resort up on the mountain. You’ve got a flashy red sports car. And you had dinner with Sydney McKnight and her dad and the mayor at the Fireside the other night.”

“News travels fast. And it’s all true,” he said.

“Generally stories being passed around town are factual and details aren’t made up or exaggerated.” She grinned. “Folks here in Blackwater Lake take pride in the integrity of our rumor mill.”

“Good to know,” he said.

“If anything, whoever’s doing the telling plays down personal opinion. But you’re even more handsome than I heard.”

“Thank you. I’d hate to disappoint.”

“So,” she said, “are you and Sydney an item?”

In a way, he thought, but not how she meant. “Well...”

“Sorry. I’m nosy. But the thing is, folks are going to ask me. It’ll be all over town that you were in here today.” She shrugged.

“An item?” Burke thought for a moment. “Not unless you define an item as a man and woman who are getting to know each other.”

“Hmm.” It seemed as if she was the tiniest bit disappointed in the answer. “Okay, then. What is it I can do for you today, Mr. Holden?”

“Burke, please. You’ll probably be seeing a lot of me around here.” He smiled pleasantly, but there was no response from the clerk. “I’m here to look into building permits for the resort.”

“You’ll need to speak with the building department supervisor.”

“That would be great. Is he free?”

“I’ll check for you. Have a seat.”

“Thanks.”

Burke did as asked but had hoped to be shown in without having to wait. There was a lot to do back at the office and he had a scheduled call with his cousin soon. After ten minutes he began to look at his watch. Probably he should have called ahead to make an appointment. He didn’t want to be perceived as presumptuous. That little detail would spread like a wind-driven wildfire and not make his work life in this small town easier.

Just when he was wondering whether or not to leave a message that he would call and schedule a time, Sally walked back behind the counter.

“Sorry I took so long, Burke. Had to update John on some things. He’ll see you now.”

Burke had seen John Donnelly, Building Supervisor, stenciled on the door to this office. “Thank you.”

“Follow me. Through there.” She pointed to the door separating the waiting area from the back offices.

Sally led him down the hall to the last office, which was probably the biggest. The door was open and she poked her head in. “John, this is the fella I was telling you about.”

“Thanks, Sally.” The man was in his late fifties, with gray hair and brown eyes. He was a little over six feet tall because they were eye-to-eye when he stood and held out his hand. “John Donnelly. Nice to meet you, Mr. Holden.”

“Burke.”

“Okay.” He indicated the two chairs in front of a desk where construction plans were unrolled for further scrutiny. In the corners of the room, similar rolls were standing up in stacks, probably blueprints waiting for approval. “Have a seat, Burke.”

“Thanks.”

“What can I do for you?”

“I wanted to introduce myself. As you probably know, I’m in charge of building the resort up on the mountain. It’s my job to facilitate construction, cross the t’s and dot the i’s. In my experience, the process of doing that is much smoother after I get to know who I’ll be working with.”

John, cool and assessing, leaned back in his desk chair. “I can see that.”

“It would also be helpful to know what paperwork the county requires. Every one is a little different.”

“Sure.” The other man nodded.

“I’ve researched codes and zoning restrictions for Blackwater Lake but wanted to find out from the guy in charge if I have the latest information.”

“I can help you with that.”

“It would speed things along to know how many copies of the building plans and site plans you require. How much detail we need to add. Make sure you don’t have to ask for more documentation.” Burke looked at the man, who was nodding his agreement.

“That would sure help us out at this end,” he admitted.

“Mayor Goodson assured me that the length of time required and the permit application process is shorter and less intense than a city like Chicago, Los Angeles or New York. Simply because here there’s not the large volume of requests.”

“True enough. But we keep busy.”

“I have no doubt. The thing is, delays can be costly and time-consuming.” Stuff that needlessly kept him away from home. And Liam. “I’d like to avoid that if possible.”

“I can sure understand that.” John leaned forward and rested his elbows on the desk. “And here’s where I’m coming from, Burke. It’s come to my attention that you’re seeing Sydney McKnight.”

“We’ve met,” Burke said cautiously. The man’s pleasant tone didn’t change, but there was something uncompromising in his dark eyes. “Sir, I don’t mean to be critical here. And I’m aware that things are different in a small town. But I’m a little confused about how that information is relevant to my getting construction and electrical permits issued in a timely fashion.”

John pointed to a picture on his desk, one of several and nearly obscured by the unrolled paperwork. It was a photo of this man with his arm affectionately thrown across Syd’s shoulders. Both were smiling. “Sydney is my niece.”

Burke did his best not to show surprise. If the last name had been the same, he’d have been better prepared. This guy must be her deceased mother’s brother. “I see.”

“Maybe you do. Maybe not. It’s not clear from what I hear whether or not you’re dating my niece, but you should know that I’ve been extraprotective of her since the day she was born. So I’d prefer that she’s a happy camper. That girl and my brother-in-law have been through a lot. I’d sure hate to see anyone do anything to hurt her.” He hesitated a moment, letting the words sink in. “And whatever the mayor told you about a short waiting period for plan approval could be a little off. If you get my drift.”

Burke definitely got it. The drift was clear. Don’t do Sydney wrong or the permits could be delayed, costing him time and money.

He stood and met the other man’s gaze. “I assure you that Sydney is safe with me.”

“Sure hope so, son.”

Burke shook the man’s hand, left the office, nodded to Sally behind the desk, then walked into the hall and back down the stairs the way he’d come. This was an aspect of small-town life that he hadn’t taken into account. Since his philosophy was not to get deeply involved with a woman, it hadn’t occurred to him there was a potential conflict of interest if he did.

Still, he was pretty sure he’d told Syd’s uncle the truth about her being safe with him. She wasn’t looking to get serious and had volunteered to handle the details about them breaking up. Considering that, she should be able to pull off convincing everyone that she wasn’t hurt by their relationship.

But any ideas Burke had of taking things to the next level with her would be best ignored. Personal risks weren’t his style and factoring in the business complications made taking any chances too costly.

Still, he was committed to helping convince Syd’s father they were a couple. That would make her happy and now he had business reasons for keeping her that way.

* * *

After rotating the tires, Syd looked at the underside of the 2012 Chevrolet sport utility vehicle up on the hydraulic lift. Always a good idea to make sure the frame was solid. The customer had said the ride wasn’t as smooth as it could be. Part of the reason could be that Blackwater Lake was surrounded by rural area. Critters large and small crossed the roads whenever they felt the need and mostly at inconvenient times.

She didn’t like thinking about that, but stuff turned up and finding it here at the shop was in her job description, so she looked and fortunately didn’t see anything wrong. She would change the oil, then check the fuel injection system.

There were footsteps on the cement floor behind her. A man’s footsteps in dress shoes, not boots or sneakers. Burke Holden.

Could be someone else, but she had a feeling it wasn’t. Just thinking his name made her heart beat a little faster. She took a deep breath then turned to face him. “Hi.”

“Hi, yourself.”

“I’m guessing you didn’t see the sign.”

One corner of his mouth quirked up. “You mean the one about customers not being allowed in the service area?”

“That would be the one.”

“It’s a liability issue and I don’t plan on having an accident, let alone filing a lawsuit against your business.”

“Good to know.”

He moved closer and pulled her into his arms, then lowered his mouth to hers. The sudden and unexpected intimacy sucked the air from her lungs and started her pulse racing. His lips were soft, so soft, and she felt herself sinking into the kiss in spite of the warning her brain was trying to send that she shouldn’t respond.

He cupped the side of her face in his palm and brushed his thumb over her cheek, caressing, mesmerizing, tempting. The sound of a tricked-out truck roaring by on the street brought her to her senses, reminding her where she was.

She pulled back, hoping he wouldn’t see that his kiss had affected her, made her tremble from head to toe. Brushing her dirty hands over her equally dirty work shirt and pants, she said, “I’m greasy. It’s going to get all over those expensive clothes you’re wearing.”

He glanced down at his slacks and sports shirt and shrugged. “A devoted boyfriend doesn’t care about things like that.”

Speaking in the third person was a dead giveaway that he wasn’t talking about himself. And for some reason that kiss had felt a lot like a giant “take that,” as if he was trying to make a point to someone. “Why did you kiss me?”

“Your father’s watching.”

“How do you know?”

“I stopped in the office. He told me where to find you and warned me about customers in the service bay.”

Syd peeked past him and saw that it was true. Tom McKnight was looking at them through the window of his office. It was so tempting to wave, but she held back. Make it look real and natural, she reminded herself. The man’s future happiness was at stake.

She looked up at Burke. “I have to say again that you’re very good at role-playing.”

“It’s a gift.” His face had faux humility all over it.

“I didn’t expect to see you here.” But she was happy he’d stopped by, a thought that was something to rationalize later.

“I just met your uncle.”

“Oh?”

He nodded. “I went to the county building services office about permits for the resort. Turns out he handles that sort of thing.”

In the brief time she’d known Burke Holden, Syd had grown accustomed to his easygoing manner. It was missing in action at the moment.

“And?” she asked.

“Several things, actually.” He smiled but there was no amusement in his eyes. “Sally Gardiner wanted to know if we’re an item.”

So the rumor mill was already grinding out information. It was good when a plan came together. “Don’t keep me in suspense. What did you tell her?”

“That you and I are in the process of getting acquainted. She would have to make the determination about whether or not we’re item-worthy.”

“Good answer.”

“Thank you.”

“What else happened?” she asked. He’d said there were several things.

“Your uncle John warned me that if I hurt you the process for obtaining building permits would be significantly longer than I’d been led to believe.”

“Did he actually say that in so many words?”

“Not exactly. It was more of a general implication.”

So he had more skin in the game now. That’s why he’d kissed her as if there was something at stake. “I’m sorry, Burke—”

“It would have been helpful if I’d known you were related to the man in charge of signing off on building permits.”

She heard the annoyance in his voice and chalked it up to him not liking surprises. Couldn’t blame the man for that. They weren’t her favorite thing, either.

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