He lost her once. Is this their second chance?

Transforming a vision for Belle Cove Resorts into reality is a breakout move that could take Dakota Carson’s image specialist company to the next level. But it means teaming up with the man who broke her heart. Soon enough, Dakota’s overwhelming desire for the gorgeous entrepreneur reawakens. But giving in to passion could cost her way too much.

Years ago, Logan Montague walked away from everything, including the woman he loved. Now CEO of his family’s international resort chain, he won’t risk losing Dakota another time. With his matchmaking aunt’s blessing, he and Dakota are united in business—and pleasure. And so Logan embarks on his scheme of seduction, sweeping Dakota away to an exotic Jamaican hideaway. With both their professional and personal futures on the line, can they learn to trust and love each other…again?

“What am I going to do with you?”

He held her face between his hands and gently kissed her. “I have some ideas.”

Logan kissed Dakota on her neck, letting his hands roam over her body. He moved around to stand behind her. His fingers poised over her dress zipper. “May I?”

She leaned into his touch. “Please do.”

Expecting to feel a little nervous, Dakota was not prepared for the rush of longing that infused her when he undid her dress. His hand slid inside the garment to touch her back and caress her skin with soft, circular strokes. After a few moments, he used both hands to ease her dress off her shoulders before kissing her right shoulder blade.

Dakota turned around and then wrapped her arms around his neck. She kissed him again before lowering her hands to his shirt and unbuttoning it. “My turn,” she said, easing the material away from his body.

Unable to help herself, her fingers fluttered across his chest. The muscles underneath were hard and firm. Next, her fingers moved to the buckle on his pants. Soon they were standing together in their underwear. Emboldened, Dakota reached around and unhooked her bra. She was completely nude before he had uttered a word.

“You’re the sexiest best friend I’ve ever had.”

She lay back on the bed, motioning for him to follow. “I feel the same way.”

Logan lay down beside her. He traced the lines of her body with his hands as though committing every curve to memory. When he was done with his exploration, he rested the palm of his hand on her heart.

LISA WATSON

is a native of Washington, D.C., and writes multicultural novels. Having her debut novel nominated for Best Contemporary Fiction inspired Lisa to continue creating engaging story lines and strong characters with universal appeal and a keen sense of humor. Lisa also loves traveling, so weaving beautiful destinations into the pages of her novels as lush backdrops or as the heritage of her characters is not uncommon.

Lisa’s first series for Harlequin Kimani Romance, The Match Broker series, introduced readers to matchmaking guru Norma Jean Anderson, aka The Love Broker. Her goal is to have her son, Adrian, and everyone in his immediate circle of friends happily married—period.

Lisa works at a technology consulting firm and is the copublicist for the RT Book Reviews annual RT Booklovers Conventions.

Married for eighteen years, with two teenagers and a Maltipoo, Brinkley, Lisa lives outside Raleigh, N.C., and is avidly working on her next series. Visit her website: www.lisawatson.com.

Love by Design
Lisa Watson

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Dear Reader,

Can a first love be rekindled after years of silence? That’s what Dakota Carson has to decide when Logan Montague returns with a business proposition she can’t refuse. It’s an emotional time for Dakota—Logan was her best childhood friend and the only man she’s ever loved. When he left, she was devastated. His return wreaks havoc, and despite Dakota’s protestations of indifference, it’s an adjustment.

Logan’s never stopped loving Dakota. While familial obligations caused him to leave, it’s not the whole story.

I hope you enjoy this Mills & Boon Kimani Romance story. It’s my favorite in the series, and I know you’ll enjoy these characters as much as I do!

Be inspired…

Lisa

For Dalen… Your guidance is invaluable.

Thanks to Lisa Lanier. Your keen eye is so invaluable to me. You are a wonderful beta reader, and I’m so grateful for your flashes of inspiration!

To Pat Simmons, my literary partner-in-crime and a great storyteller. You excel at keeping me on deadline—and word count!

To Renee Bernard, the newest link in my armor and an amazing author. Thank you so much for all your sage advice and support. The stars definitely aligned the day we met! I’ll be eternally grateful that I took a “detour”!

My thanks to fellow author Michelle Lindo-Rice for making sure my characters’ Patois was irie!

To my FB Divas, Anita Tann, Jackie Roberts and LaVerne Aslam! You ladies are always excited and supportive, and I thank you!

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

Introduction

About the Author

Title Page

Dear Reader

Dedication

Prologue

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

Epilogue

Copyright

Prologue

“I’m going to lose her.”

Logan Montague sat on the bench in Grant Park. His world had just been blown apart, and the shards that were once his hopes and dreams scattered to the four winds. He was leaving Chicago…immediately. The timing of his parents’ decree could not have been worse. He stared down at the grass beneath his feet, but all he saw was time running out. What he wanted least in the world, working in the family business, was going to be his entire future.

He sensed the urgency in his parents, and he wished he could just ignore it and go his own way, but he could not, nor would he shirk his responsibilities to his family. He just wished things had turned out differently.

One disaster at Montague International had his family scrambling to do damage control. His father was insistent that the news of one of their directors suspected of sabotage and trying to jump ship to the competition had to remain out of the public eye at all cost. They could tell no one about it for fear of scandal and plummeting stock prices. It was bad enough having to leave, but not being able to tell Dakota Carson the truth of the situation was unacceptable.

A light of potential that had once burned bright within his heart was just extinguished. As much as it would kill him to do so, he would not tell his best friend the truth about why he was leaving. He had been in love with her for a while, but had yet to make his feelings known. He always assumed he would have time. It had just run out.

“Hey.”

Logan looked up to see her smiling down at him.

“Hey.”

Dakota sat next to him on the park bench. “Sorry I’m late. You can’t believe the amount of time it took me to finish up the chores Granny set out for me. It’s like she knew I was in a rush to come see you and found a million reasons why I had to stay.” She laughed. “But I finished, and here I am.”

Logan nodded.

“So, what did you want to do this afternoon? A movie? A walk through the park? What about a trip to Navy Pier, or a boat ride?”

“I can’t,” he replied. “I won’t be able to stay as long as I’d hoped.”

“Oh, well, that’s okay,” Dakota replied, wrapping her arm around his. “I’m glad to see you, no matter what.”

Logan closed his eyes and sighed. “Koty, there’s something I have to tell you.”

She glanced up at him. “Okay. Shoot.”

“I have to go away…to New York…for the summer. I’m…I leave in a few days.”

She sat up and faced him. “What? New York? Well, that’s not too far away. We can still see each other, right?”

He glanced away. “My father wants me to learn the family business. That’s going to take up most of my time.”

She laughed. “You’re kidding, right?”

Logan shook his head. “No, Koty. I have an internship at Montague. It’s an opportunity I can’t pass up. It’ll help me when I start working there after college.”

“But…I thought you didn’t want to work for the family business? You always said it wasn’t for you.”

“I know…but things change.”

“That’s a pretty big change, Logan. I don’t understand why you’re just now telling me. You’re practically gone tomorrow, and you spring this on me now?”

“I’m sorry. I just found out about it myself. It’s all arranged.”

The hurt in Dakota’s eyes caused Logan’s heart to tighten.

“Well, this sucks.”

“I’m sorry I couldn’t tell you sooner.”

Tears fell in earnest now. “It’s not your fault. You didn’t know, right?” She hugged him tightly. “I’m going to miss you, Logan—more than you know.”

He breathed in her scent. She was the most important person in his life. The turmoil he felt at saying goodbye was almost more than he could bear. No, this was wrong. He had to level with her. She deserved the truth, no matter what he promised.

“Dakota, there’s something you need to know. I—”

His cell phone chirped. Logan glanced down at the screen. It was a text message from his mother.

“I’m sorry, Koty, but I have to go.”

“Oh.” She stood up, her expression crestfallen.

“I’ll call you later.” He tried to muster a smile, but failed miserably. “Let me see you home.”

“No, I want to walk for a while. I just… I can’t believe you’re leaving so soon, Logan.”

He pushed the hair out of her eyes. “Me, either. There’s so much I wanted us to do.”

“Me, too.” She turned to face him. “It’s our last summer before college. I thought we’d have more time.”

“Hey.” He reached out and took her hand. “Don’t cry, Koty.”

“I can’t help it, Logan. I feel like my heart’s going to break.”

“You think it’s any different for me?” he said raggedly.

She hugged him tightly, and kissed him on the cheek. “I’ll miss you.”

“Koty…forget waiting. There’s something I want to tell you.”

She smiled. “I know what it is.”

Logan sighed with relief. “You do?”

“Yes, and I love you, too, Logan. You’re the only best friend I’ve ever had.”

She threw herself into his arms. He felt utter disappointment. She loved him. Like a friend. He felt like he had been punched in the gut. His confession about his true feelings halted before it could be voiced. “Me, too. I’m sorry, but I’ve got to head home.”

“I’m glad you told me in person, and that I could see you one last time, Logan.”

He hugged her. “Me, too. Goodbye, Koty. I’ll call you when I get there, okay?”

“You’d better,” she replied tearfully.

He held out his hand, and she took it. They walked back to his car in silence.

They embraced a final time. Logan kissed the top of her head. When he looked into her eyes, he was suddenly lost. Whatever hold he was caught up in, it was more than he could shake. Before he knew it, he lowered his head and kissed Dakota on her lips. He felt her stiffen, but she did not pull away and slap him. That was a good sign.

The kiss lengthened in duration, and after a few moments, Logan reluctantly stepped back. Dakota’s hand flew to her mouth. Her eyes mirrored her shock.

“Dakota, I… You mean the world to me. I don’t want to lose you.”

“You won’t,” she said softly. “Promise me you’ll keep in touch.”

“I promise, Dakota. Don’t worry, I’ll be home before you know it.”

“You’d better,” she choked out.

He glanced at her a final time before sliding behind the wheel and driving off. Logan did not look back. There was no way he could bear the devastated look on her face. Besides, his expression mirrored it perfectly.

Logan gripped the steering wheel until his knuckles were white. The sheer weight of family responsibility rested on his shoulders. He would bear it. He had no choice. The entire ride home, he willed his heart not to break under the pressure of his unrequited love for Dakota.

Dream’s over, Montague. She’s gone, and you’ve blown it.

Chapter 1

Ten years later…

That old letch should’ve been grateful that all I dropped over his bald head was a tureen of minestrone. It should have been a brick!

Dakota Carson was still steaming about the previous evening’s turn of events. If someone would have told her that her perfect day would end with her pouring a bowl of hot soup on a business colleague and threatening him with bodily harm, she would have thought them insane. But it occurred nonetheless.

Roger Thompson had leveraged their business dinner into a ploy to get her into bed. Dakota accepted the dinner meeting because he had something that she wanted—his connection to Amadeus Rothschild, a new designer who specialized in sheets that were elegant and pleasurable to the touch. The fact that he only used a design once made them unique. Since he was the elusive owner of a company called Sheet Music in New England, Dakota had no doubt that he would soon be a household name. The problem was that he only sold his sheets through Roger.

When her client’s wife, Nancy Janson, had seen a set on display at Thompson’s Textiles, she flipped. She wanted them for her St. Charles, Illinois, bed-and-breakfast, and nothing else would do. Since Roger was local, and Dakota had a good relationship with him, they discussed it over dinner. He promised to supply them for her project, but soon it became evident why an evening appointment was better suited for their discussion. The moment his intentions were clear, she turned him down flat. When Roger refused to take no for an answer, Dakota left money to cover her portion of the bill and bid him good-night. When she walked past him, Roger’s arm ensnared her like a vise grip. His mistake.

“Release me,” she had demanded.

“Wait, Dakota. Don’t leave yet. We can come to an arrangement that will benefit both of us. I have what you want, and you have something I want.” Roger had tried to reel her in.

“I don’t think so,” she had countered smoothly. “In fact, you either remove your hand from my arm right now, or I’ll rip that toupee off your head, and then stomp on it like a Flamenco dancer.”

He’d complied immediately, but continued to proposition her. That did it. Dakota’s answer to his vile suggestions was to pour soup on his head. Roger’s toupee cascaded off his dome, along with the soup. She’d chuckled. It had been a sight to see.

“We’re done, Roger. Step through my office door again, and you’ll regret it.”

Her alarm blared into the silence. Stunned at the offending noise that ricocheted off the walls, Dakota almost bolted from her bed. The memory of Roger and his tumbling hairpiece was pushed aside. She had bigger problems.

Last night had caused a hiccup in her plans. Roger’s store was a good source of upscale home goods, and he had lots of connections. Now she needed a plan B, and her colleague was now regaled to the Trouser Snake category of people that Dakota had severed all ties with. She knew he would never give up Rothschild’s contact information. She was desperate to make her client happy, but was not about to play games, or to sleep her way into opportunities. She took her career very seriously, and if somebody didn’t like it, that was their misfortune. That went for the few men she had dated, too.

When Dakota turned on her cell phone, her voice mail icon, email and text message notifications all dinged, buzzed and chirped respectively. Three were from Norma Jean Anderson.

“Now I know you can’t possibly be so busy that you can’t return my phone calls,” Norma Jean said in one message. “It’s obvious that you’re avoiding m—”

Delete. Dakota felt no shame.

“Dakota Carson, I know your grandmother didn’t raise you to—”

Delete. Again.

“Girl, if you don’t call me, I’m coming to see you.”

She pondered that one, then pressed delete.

Norma Jean and her husband, Heathcliffe, lived a few doors down from her grandparents’ house in Chicago. Since the age of thirteen, Dakota considered Norma Jean the neighborhood mom. The woman knew everyone’s name, brought homemade meals when people were sick and wouldn’t hesitate to give a neighbor whatever she had. Norma Jean had become her rock when she desperately needed someone in her corner, and for that Dakota owed her a lifetime of gratitude. Norma Jean Anderson was an amazing humanitarian. But a horrible matchmaker.

Dakota loved Norma Jean, affectionately called Ms. Jeannie, to death, and would do anything for her, but the woman was driving her insane. She was more focused on Dakota’s love life than Dakota was, and had been for years. Personal relationships did not work out for Dakota. An occasional date was one thing, but she wasn’t getting serious—with anyone. She learned the hard way long ago that men came and went, but work was constant. She had governed her life by that simple observation, and she wasn’t about to change now.

* * *

Logan and his cousin, Adrian Anderson, sat in his aunt’s kitchen eating the most delicious cinnamon roll he had ever tasted. He took a sip of coffee. “Aunt Jeannie,” he said slowly. “I appreciate everything you do for me, but I’m not going out with your bowling mate’s sister’s niece—no matter how many times you ask. Adrian already warned me about her, and as much as I love you, I’m not taking the bait.”

Indignant, Norma Jean let out a frustrated breath and pinned her son, Adrian, with a withering look. “This is all your fault.”

“Oh, no, you don’t,” Adrian replied between bites of his breakfast. “You are the one who doesn’t know when to leave well enough alone. I told you two weeks ago that Logan wasn’t interested in being set up. Apparently, you turned down your hearing aid.”

“I don’t wear a hearing aid,” she snapped.

“Well, then you played deaf, because you didn’t listen. He’s been back in town three days, Mom. Let him get acclimated first before you whip out the little black book—or your love-broker encyclopedia.”

“Watch it,” she replied. Getting up from the table, she started clearing away the dishes. She tried to grab Logan’s, but he batted her hand away. “Well, this is a pickle. It’s already been arranged.”

Logan regarded her with determined purpose. “Then unarrange it. Aunt Jeannie, I haven’t even unpacked all my boxes yet, so I definitely don’t have time to date. There’s no way I’m wasting two hours of my evening trying to make small talk with a woman I’ve never met, and that I’m not remotely attracted to.”

“How do you—” Norma Jean stopped and cut her eyes over to Adrian. “You showed him her picture?”

A wide grin shot across his face. “Yep.”

“Adrian,” she chided. “Logan deserves happiness, too. Milán is an incredible woman, and an even better daughter-in-law. She’ll make a wonderful mother, too. That is, whenever you get around to—”

“We’re not having this conversation again,” Adrian interrupted.

“We wouldn’t have to if you’d made good on the promise of giving me grandbabies.”

“Mom, it’s been two years, not ten. Cut us some slack. We’re practicing as much as we can.”

Logan burst out laughing, and patted his cousin on the back.

Norma Jean rolled her eyes. “Do I look amused?”

“Aunt Jeannie, it may not seem like it, but I’m perfectly capable of finding my own dates.”

“You don’t say? Is that why you’re still single?”

“I haven’t found the right girl yet,” he countered.

“Hmph. Seems to me you had the possibility of the right girl, but you let her go.”

His expression darkened. Like he needed a reminder of his ruined relationship with Dakota, or the tense circumstances surrounding why he had left in the first place. Finishing the last of his meal, Logan stood up and put his plate in the dishwasher. “As much as I love these family get-togethers, and reminiscing about subjects I’d prefer not to talk about, I really have to get going. I’m leaving for Jamaica tomorrow.”

Norma Jean frowned. “How long will you be gone?”

“Just a few days.”

“Have you seen Dakota yet?”

“No. At some point I plan to, but I’m not sure how well that’ll go.”

“Tread lightly,” Norma Jean cautioned. “Time has a way of changing folks. Life happens, Logan. She’s not the same girl you left behind years ago.”

He looked at her. “What does that mean?”

Norma Jean shrugged her shoulders. “I’m just saying…things change…people change.”

“Look, I know you mean well, but as far as renewing my friendship with Dakota…I don’t even know if that’s possible. The last few times I’ve been back haven’t gone so well.”

“What did you expect? You haven’t exactly leveled with her, Logan.”

“Aunt Jeannie, I know your heart’s in the right place, but can you just let it go? Right now the water is still, and I’d like to keep it that way.” He kissed Norma Jean’s cheek. “Thanks for breakfast. It was…interesting.”

Norma Jean handed him a plastic container with more cinnamon rolls. “Anytime, sweetie.” She returned the kiss and tapped him on the chest with her index finger. “We’re not done talking yet. Remember what I said, and there’s always time to right a wrong, Logan. You and Dakota were the best of friends and I—”

Logan headed out of the kitchen. “You’re beating a dead horse that ain’t coming alive.”

Adrian kissed his mother and then fell into step beside his cousin. “At least you didn’t get fixed up with one.”

“I heard that,” his mother called out from behind them.

Logan and Adrian continued to laugh and compare notes as they walked out.

Retrieving his car keys from his pocket, Logan glanced at him. “Well, that was brutal. Remind me again how I got on her radar? I’ve only been back three days.”

“Quit complaining. That was two days longer than my friends and I wagered on. I lost fifty bucks on you. Though I may still have a chance. The second bet is that you’ll be off the market by Christmas. Which, by the way, is just three months away.”

“Save your money. I have no intention of being caught up in Aunt Jeannie’s machinations.”

Adrian aimed the remote at his vehicle. “Yeah, that’s what we all said.”

Logan got in and started his car. He glanced at his phone. The ringer was turned down. He had missed several calls, one of them from his mother. There was no way Aunt Jeannie could have called her that fast. Turning the engine off, he decided to get it over with.

“Hey, Mom,” he said when she picked up. “How are you?”

“I’m fine, honey,” Beverly Montague replied with excitement. “How’s Chicago? Are you settling in okay?”

“Yep. The condo is fine. I’m still unpacking, but I should be done by the weekend.”

“I’m glad.”

“How are things going without Dad? Are you lonely?”

“No, indeed,” she said quickly. “Don’t get me wrong. I love and miss my husband, but your father and Heathcliffe are having a ball fishing. I get daily…sometimes more often…reports on what they’re up to.” She laughed. “It’s great to hear them sounding like a bunch of young guys out on a weekend pass.”

Logan chuckled. “Considering it’s Dad we’re talking about, that’s shocking. He’s not exactly the sit-back-and-relax type of guy.”

“You’d be surprised. Ever since you took over at Belle Cove, he’s only had to focus on running Montague International. He’s got a solid executive team in place, so he’s been learning to slow down. Personally, I think retirement is the best thing for him, but I know he’ll never let go one hundred percent. Still, your taking over the resorts has been a tremendous help, honey. I know it wasn’t easy, but you have exceeded our expectations. You’ve fit in wonderfully, and made solid contributions to the company since you started. I’m so proud of you, Logan. We both are.”

He felt a surge of gratification. “Thanks, Mom. That means a lot to me. So what are you doing while they’re gone?” he said, changing the subject. “Something tells me you’re not at home crocheting.”

“Heavens, no,” Beverly said quickly. “The ladies and I have been having a fun time with our charity projects…and a few excursions.”

The way she said it tipped Logan off that his mother was indeed making good use of his father’s being away. He was not worried, though—his parents loved each other and had for over thirty-five years. As for his aunt and uncle, they were the most solid couple he knew, next to his parents.

“Do I even want to know the details?” he joked.

“Uh, no. That way, if your dad asks you for the particulars, you can answer him honestly.”

Logan let out a robust laugh. “Gotcha.”

“Enough about me. What’s this I hear about you blowing off a date your aunt set up for you?”

The smile slid right off his face. Apparently, Aunt Jeannie had made the rounds. His mother had heard about the potential date and promptly sided with her sister-in-law. Normally, his uncle Heathcliffe would temper his aunt’s plotting, but since he and his father were silver-salmon fishing in Alaska, he was on his own.

“Mom, now isn’t the best time to worry about my love life. I’m in the middle of some transitional things at Belle Cove, and that has to be my primary focus.”

In addition to the corporation, the Montagues owned three resorts in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, Sanibel Island, Florida, and St. Simon’s Island, Georgia. When he took over as CEO of the resorts months before, Logan’s focus was to increase their bottom line, and to position the business for the future to ensure that Belle Resorts stayed competitive. Eventually, Logan realized that to accomplish the goals he had set for himself and the company, he would need to take a different approach. He would need to go outside the confines of the company to get the expertise needed in order to successfully effect a change.

“Are you listening to me?”

“Huh?” Logan realized he’d missed something his mother had said. “I’m sorry, Mom, what did you say?”

“I said, I know you’re finding your way at Montague, but try not to lose sight of the things in life that really matter, honey. Work is constant, and God willing, will always be there. Your personal life can pass you by in the blink of an eye if you’re not careful.”

“Well, that’s an about-face. I seem to recall years ago you both saying that there was nothing more important than business, and it was my personal life that had to take a backseat.”

“Logan, that’s the way it had to be at that time. I know you still blame us for what happened with Dakota, and I’m truly sorry for that. I just assumed that you’d be able to fix everything when you came home.”

“That’s not how it worked out, is it?” Logan said bitterly.

“No. No, it’s not. And your father and I are saddened by it, but at that time, Logan, it was extremely important for you to learn the family business. That was the priority then, but it doesn’t have to be now. You’ll find happiness, sweetheart. I know it. Which is why you should give Jeannie a chance to—”

“Not happening, Mom. Now isn’t the time for me to be navigating Aunt Jeannie’s blind-date circuit. I’ve still got a lot of work to do.”

“Okay, but you need to find a balance between the two,” she warned. “Oh, Jeannie also mentioned you’d hired Dakota to give the place a facelift. How’s she doing? I heard her new company is doing well, and that she’s sure to be a big help revitalizing Belle Cove. I can’t wait to see the finished product. I really miss her. It’s a shame you two weren’t able to reconnect over the years, but maybe now you’ll be able to catch up.”

“I haven’t hired her yet. I’m planning to discuss it with her soon. Hey, I’ve got to run, but I’ll call you later. I love you.”

“Love you, too, Logan. And don’t think I don’t know a redirect when I see one,” she said sweetly.

He hung up the phone and leaned back in his seat. Logan was not good at admitting that he needed help of any kind, but there was more at stake here than just his pride. That was battered and bruised enough, thanks to the choices he had made over the years. Still, coming back to Chicago after such a long absence was bittersweet. It was great being in close proximity to his family again, but that wasn’t the main reason he decided to come back.

One thing prompted his relocation, and he could no longer ignore the all-consuming influence it held over him: rectifying the mistake he had made years ago—losing Dakota Carson. He loved her. Still. He had tried considerably over the years to get over her, and to move on, but all his relationships had failed miserably. To him, it felt as though he were constantly trying to shove a square peg into a round hole. It just was not going to happen. He needed to rework his destiny and win her back. When he left, they were on the cusp of something, and he was convinced that they needed to explore the possibilities. Logan was confident that in time, he could achieve his heart’s desire, and he did not need his aunt’s help to do it.

Chapter 2

“You sound like a hot mess,” Susan said.

“Thanks,” Dakota replied. “I didn’t sleep very well. What’s up?”

“Mrs. Anderson called—again,” her best friend and office manager, Susan Summers, replied. “She wants you to call back ASAP.”

“It’s eight in the morning.”

“She said it was important.”

“I’ll bet she did,” Dakota groused. “I’ll call her shortly.”

“Okay, but she said she had some information for you that was pretty important.”

“I’m not really in the mood to speak with anyone right now.”

“Why?”

She sighed. “It’s a long, bizarre story about designer sheets, soup and toupees. I’ll fill you in on the way to work.”

“I can’t wait to hear the details.”

Dakota hung up and went back to her laptop. She checked her schedule. There was only one meeting for the day. That’s hardly going to get you into the black ink.

Her business had been open less than six months. She had several clients, but her customers did not need her on a regular basis. One Eighty Renovations specialized in taking businesses that suffered from outdated decor, branding and staffing woes and turning them back into a hot commodity. Dakota took a holistic approach to re-energize her client’s consumer appeal, from the CEO’s attire, to the office chairs and the plates on the table at a luncheon meeting. When it came to improving the corporate image, nothing was off-limits.

Right now you need to improve your image…your financial image.

Since college, Dakota realized the value of self-reliance. She did not need anyone guiding her path. Not relying on others meant never being disappointed. Failure would be at her own hands, and that was not an option. A wave of melancholia swept over her. She closed her eyes and allowed herself to get swept back to a time when life was simple…easier. Her mother’s warm smile, the sage advice of her father and the one man she thought she would have in her life forever. Logan. With a heavy heart, Dakota forced herself back to the present.

She shut her laptop. Why was his aunt trying to reach her, and what was so dire? Probably another sermon on how I need to settle down and find Mr. Right.

“Well, that’s never gonna happen because there’s no such thing as Mr. Right.” If anything, it was more like Mr. Right Now.

* * *

Two hours later, she stepped into the elevator at work. The small office space she rented on South LaSalle Street in Chicago’s Loop district was the perfect place to grow a business, and near all the major transit lines. It had an art-deco feel with tall, white semigloss walls and tray ceilings. The bright decor contrasted nicely with the rich, cherry wood trim and the dark gray and burgundy textured carpet. There was a conference room, two large offices, a kitchen and reception area. The bathroom was just outside her suite. She loved the compact space. It was elegant, and the accessories and artwork she had chosen complemented the leather furniture. When she opened the glass door to her suite and walked in, a sense of pride practically overwhelmed her. One Eighty Renovations was her life’s blood she had built from whole cloth. She vowed it would flourish.

Susan was in the process of taking a bite out of her bagel when Dakota walked in.

“Well, if it isn’t the sex toy.”

Dakota snorted. “Don’t even get me started. Thanks to the Casanova of Home Goods, I need another path to Amadeus Rothschild—and fast.”

“Let me get this straight—you get propositioned by one of your suppliers, and all you’re worried about are the designer linens?”

“Yes. I’ve got a problem to solve, and I’m going to solve it. Dig up whatever you can on Mr. Rothschild and his company, Sheet Music. Someone we know besides Roger has to have his phone number. Call in some favors, make some promises…do whatever it takes to find him.”

“Sure thing. What about Mr. Thompson?”

“Forget him. I’m not some conquest, or here to appease his ego. I’ve dealt with the situation. Time to focus on landing a new client.”

“Sounds great. Got any ideas?”

“A few. Follow me.”

Susan got up and headed into Dakota’s office. She took a seat in the chair across from Dakota’s desk with her computer tablet in hand. “I’m all ears. Impress me.”

“She’s been doing that to me for years.” A man’s voice sounded behind them.

Both women looked up in unison. Dakota’s eyes flew to the doorway. The color drained off her face. She stood up shakily and braced her desk.

“Dakota, are you okay?” Susan whispered.

“Logan.”

“Hello, Koty.”

“Koty?” Susan’s eyebrow rose. “I thought you hated that nickname?”

Dakota glanced at Logan. Despite the shock at seeing him, she schooled her features. When she spoke, her voice was firm. “No, just the person who used to use it.”

Logan crossed the room at an unhurried pace. “Is that how you greet a long-lost friend?”

“You were hardly lost,” she clarified. “You left, if I recall.”

“Well, that part may be true.”

“May be?” Dakota retorted. “You destroyed our friendship, Logan. You left abruptly—and you didn’t look back.” She left out the part about when she needed him most.

Susan glanced between the two of them. “Uh, I think I’ll let you two catch up.”

She stood up and bolted from the room.

The lofty reply got under Dakota’s skin in record time and spurred her to action. She was across the room in seconds.

“What are you doing here?”

Logan sat down on the couch. “Are you going to stand here hissing at me like an angry kitten, or are you going to welcome a good friend home?”

“There’s that word again,” she replied. “I haven’t seen you in how many years, Logan? I’d hardly call us friends—good or otherwise.”

“We were inseparable once.”

“Yes, we were…and then you ruined it.”

He nodded. “Fair enough, but it’s not like I’ve changed much, Koty.”

“Nope, still the selfish jackass you’ve always been,” she quipped. “And it’s Dakota. Nobody calls me Koty…not anymore.”

“How about we call a cease-fire, and you ask me why I’m here?”

“How about you explain why you stayed away in the first place? Better yet, why you didn’t level with me if your feelings had changed, and why you’re sitting here like I’m supposed to run into your arms and give you a big welcome-home hug. I can tell you right now, that ain’t happening.”

“Can you please sit down and let me explain?”

With an exasperated sigh, Dakota took a seat across from him. “I’m sitting. Now why are you here? I thought Chicago was the last place you wanted to be?”

He winced at the not-so-subtle reminder of words spoken long ago that she had overheard. “For a long time it was…but things change.”

Her expression was guarded. “I know that better than anyone.”

He sighed. “I did come back, often, if I recall.”

“Yes, you did, but nothing was ever the same. Tell me I’m wrong. Each time I saw you things were…awkward between us.”

“I don’t expect you to understand, but I stayed away to make a name for myself.”

“Last time I checked, you were a Montague. How many names do you need?”

“You know what I mean. I left at my father’s insistence to learn the family business, but I also went in search of life on my own terms…without all the baggage—and the money. It was important to me.”

“Obviously more important than our friendship.”

His expression turned remorseful. “You know that wasn’t the case.”

“Do I?” She stared at him. “What was I supposed to think, Logan? You spouted some gibberish about going off to work at Montague…something you said you’d never do.”

“It was at my parents’ insistence, Dakota. I didn’t exactly have a choice in the matter. I never wanted to leave Chicago—or you.”

“But you kissed me…we kissed, Logan. You literally ask me to wait for you, and then you leave and go to New York, but that’s not the best part. Then you go to California to attend Stanford instead of Georgetown University like we planned. You didn’t tell me about your decision until it was too late to stop you. Which I’m sure you bargained for.”

Logan glanced up. “Dakota, nothing during those years turned out the way I’d hoped. It was wrong of me to ask you to put your life on hold for me, but…I thought we had something developing between us that we should explore.”

“So did I, but then things changed.”

“I know. I’m sorry, Dakota.”

When she remained quiet, he continued. “So you did end up going to Georgetown?”

“That was the plan,” she said pointedly. “I kept my end of our promise. And to add insult to injury, you didn’t keep in contact.”

The bitter censure in her words was not lost on Logan.

“So what about you?”

She looked confused. “What about me?”

“You didn’t bother to visit. You knew where I was, and you didn’t come. Not once.”

“Are you kidding, I—”

Dakota clamped her mouth shut. She was about to confess that she had come to visit, but stopped before she could humiliate herself by telling him the truth. She would never admit that she did go to see him, but that when she reached his dorm room and a friend let her in, she discovered Logan in bed with another woman. That’s when her heart had shattered into a heap at her feet, and she realized that she had loved Logan—and lost him. She swore he would never know the extent of her pain, or heartbreak. That one kiss they shared before he left was their first…and last.

“You what?”

“Nothing,” she said quickly. “You’re right. I’m the bad guy here.”

“I never said that.”

“I didn’t come see you when I could have. Truth is, I found myself very unmotivated to travel across the country to see a man who didn’t want to be in the same city with me.”

It bothered her, being so affected by their busted-up friendship. It should have been water under the bridge—too many things had occurred since he left. He was absent when she needed him most. To see him now after so many years of silence was like a well-placed chisel chipping away at a wall of ice.

“It wasn’t that, Dakota. I…wanted to see you. I never stopped wanting to see you.”

“Yeah? Well, your actions spoke way louder than words, Logan.”

He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his legs. “Koty, I know that I hurt you…terribly, and that I can never fix what I…threw away. And I get that you don’t want to see me, but I’m here to make things right between us.”

“How do you propose to do that, Logan?” she scoffed. “A time machine?”

“I’d use it if I had one. Since I don’t, I need you to hear me out. I’ve got an idea that could be advantageous—to both of us.”

Dakota crossed her arms in front of her. If she was going to be fed a line, she wanted to be good and comfortable. “Fine, Logan, let’s hear it.”

“I want to hire you to renovate my resorts.”

“Your resorts? I thought your parents were still at the helm.”

He shook his head. “They stepped down a few months ago and put me in charge. Dad still runs Montague, but I’m the new CEO of Belle Resorts.”

“Great for you, but why do you want me?”

“You’re the only one I’ve ever wanted.”

Her eyebrow arched upward. “You could’ve fooled me.”

“For this job,” he explained. “Your caliber of expertise is just what Belle Cove needs to introduce her to a whole new demographic. She has to change with the times, Dakota. Right now we’re viewed as too elitist, and unapproachable. If we’re to prosper, we need more overall appeal. While still remaining luxurious, of course.”

She shook her head. “I can’t believe you want me to work for you.”

“I do, but more important, given our history…can you work for me?”

Dakota pondered all the ramifications to herself and her business. It was a no-brainer. Business trumped heart, every time. Dakota’s gaze connected with his. “Yes.”

Relief suffused his face. Logan stood up. “I’m glad to hear that. I thought you’d throw me out on my ear.”

“I considered it.”

Logan headed to the door, and Dakota followed.

“I just want you to know that I believe that eventually, we can get past our differences.”

Dakota looked skeptical. “Only time will tell.”

* * *

Later that evening, Logan was at his condo going over his discussion with Dakota. Their initial meeting after years of silence had not gone exactly to plan. Somehow, he thought that time would have mellowed both of them, but he was wrong. Dead wrong. Surprisingly, Dakota was still angry at him. It was true that he had severed all ties unexpectedly and completely, but Logan was not without remorse. He wanted so much more, and leaving her had damn near killed him, but he always held out hope that they could reconnect.

Though they were best friends, Logan had developed feelings for her early on. When she had begun dating, and found her first boyfriend, Logan was upset at his hesitation at declaring those feelings. His jealously had directly resulted in his betraying that friendship—and her.

There were hundreds of times he wanted to confess his part in the breakup with her first boyfriend, Michael, a few months before Logan left, but something always stopped him. His heart had overruled his head and better judgment. It gave him hope that Dakota could return his feelings. It was a small chance, but he had allowed the seed to grow inside his heart. He reasoned that she would be free, and then he would confess his love to her in hopes that they could have a relationship.

In his mind, she would turn to him and reciprocate his love, but that plan went wrong. Horribly and irrevocably wrong. He had not anticipated that Michael would alert Dakota to his part in their breakup. When she found out, there were no words to describe her anger. He also had not factored in his parents stepping in with their family crisis and ruining his perfectly thought-out plan.

Suddenly, it was all too much. His family’s expectations for his future, and Dakota’s discovery of his role in her unhappiness.

The argument that resulted between them had been bitter. He deserved every angry and hurt-laced word she had hurled at him. When they reconciled, he decided to come clean and tell her the truth about his motivation behind his actions, but then he was forced to leave town. His biggest regret was that he had not been brave enough to level with Dakota, and that she had been collateral damage in his father’s quest for bringing him into the family business, and his jealous tampering with her love life. Logan had vowed to tell her the truth, and now was his chance to come clean. About everything.

Time had a way of fostering introspection, and sitting there earlier staring at Dakota’s rigid, angry, gorgeous face was making him ponder his ability to remain quiet. And sane. It was like a glimpse back in time. In many ways she was the eighteen-year-old girl he had left, but she was different, too. She had matured, and grown into her beauty. She was taller, shapelier, and her skin was still flawless, except for the dark circles under her eyes that she had attempted to hide with concealer. Though these eyes were bright with challenge, Logan could still see the underlying pain in them when she looked at him.

Because of you.

A knot of regret blossomed in Logan’s stomach. He assumed that only he would carry the loss of their relationship, and that she would forget him and immerse herself in other friends and school. Logan wagered that only his heart would be sacrificed.

You were wrong.

That realization hit Logan squarely in his gut. He wasn’t blind. Dakota had done more than suffer at his desertion. There was a sadness about her that he had not anticipated. She was still troubled. She deserved much better than that—than him. But God help him, he refused to give up the minuscule hope that he could make amends. The one kiss they shared still resided in his memories and taunted him with the realization of lost dreams. Whatever it took, Logan would earn her forgiveness, and eventually her heart. It was a herculean task, but the prize was a lifetime of happiness spent with the only woman in the world whom he had ever loved.

Chapter 3

Whoever wrote be careful what you ask for, you may get it, obviously knew what the heck they were talking about.

“I vow to do anything to keep my business afloat, and bam! In walks Logan Montague.” Dakota laughed at the irony, but it came out as more of a high-pitched squeak. What kind of sick joke is that?

“Daydreaming again?”

Dakota was leaning so far back in her chair that it almost capsized. She had to put forth a lot of effort to right herself.

“I did knock,” Susan said. “And I called your name.”

“I’m starting to think that I need a bell over my door,” Dakota said, panting from exertion.

Susan sat down, took a sip of coffee from her mug and got comfortable. “So how did it go yesterday? Did you catch up with your friend?”

“Not exactly.”

“I didn’t press you yesterday because I could see you were overwhelmed, but…I can’t believe you didn’t tell me about Logan. I’m your best friend. Don’t you think I should’ve known about something this important to you?”

“What was I supposed to say?”

“How about the truth?”

With a long sigh, Dakota fiddled with a paper clip. “We were the best of friends, he moved away to go learn the family business, which he said he’d never do, and then he stayed away to make a name for himself outside of his wealthy parents’ shadow, and now he’s back.”

“And?”

Dakota shrugged. “And I’m fine.”

A skeptical expression flittered across Susan’s face. “Your body language says otherwise.”

“Look, I know you’re concerned about me, but you don’t have to be. I can take care of myself,” Dakota assured her friend. “I have been for quite some time.”

“I know you have,” Susan said softly. “You’ve endured more than anyone should, and I don’t doubt your voracity when it comes to watching your own back. But it’s obvious there’s more to this story than you’re telling. I saw it in your eyes the moment he walked in.”

“Saw what?”

“It wasn’t just surprise at seeing a long-lost friend. There was more—and it had nothing to do with friendship.”

She sat forward. “Suzy, I love you…you know that, but I don’t want to talk about it. Besides, I’ve got important news. Our new client is Belle Resorts.”

“Wow. Their resorts are so beautiful. It’s a fitting name.”

“It is. Logan’s mom visited the area while on vacation and—”

Susan’s mouth dropped open. “Wait a minute…are you telling me that your friend’s family owns them?”

“Yes. It’s a family business, and Logan is the new CEO.”

“Seriously? I know about the one in Jamaica, but how many are there?”

Dakota studied her desk. “Not many.”

“Dakota,” Susan pressed.

“There’s only…three.”

Susan choked on her coffee. “Three? Are you kidding? We don’t have the manpower to—”

“I know, but we’ll start with the one in Jamaica first, and if that goes well, One Eighty will tackle the rest, one at a time.” Dakota leaned across her desk. “This is a great opportunity,” she said excitedly.

“I know, but are you sure you can handle it?”

“Of course we can.”

“Not we,” Susan corrected. “You.”

“Yes. We’ve been talking about expanding, right?”

“I’m not completely sold on this idea. It’s obvious that you and Mr. CEO have a few…issues to work out.”

“Yes, we do, but we can tackle those later. Logan assured me that he had no problems taking direction from me, and I made it clear that if we do this, I want complete autonomy. No exceptions.”

“And he agreed to that.”

“Yes. I gave him a contract, and Logan will have it couriered over when it’s ready.”

“If you think you can handle it, I’m in one hundred percent.”

Dakota jumped up and went to hug her friend. “Thanks, and don’t worry. I’ve got this. Everything will run as smooth as kookoon silk, trust me.”

She returned the hug. “I know it will. Speaking of which—” She handed Dakota a piece of paper.

“What’s this?”

“The most recent message that Norma Jean Anderson has left today. You’d better stop stalling and call Ms. Jeannie back before she comes looking for you.”

“Too late,” Norma Jean said from the doorway.

“This is getting to be a habit,” Susan joked before greeting the older woman and leaving.

Norma Jean got straight to the point. “I know you’ve gotten my messages.”

“Ms. Jeannie, I promise that I’m not avoiding you. I just got an unexpected new client, and I’m trying to work a few things out.”

“Well, there’s a development that I think you should know about,” Norma Jean began.

“No need. Logan stopped by to see me yesterday.”

“He did?” she said, astonished. “Good. I know you two don’t have the best history, but I hope you were able to clear the air.”

“Not really, but I can handle it,” Dakota assured her.

“I know things don’t always go according to plan, honey,” Norma Jean said. “There’s no denying that he messed up really bad, but I know he’s here to make things right between you. You were so close once. I’m hoping that you and my nephew can get that back.”

“I don’t know about that.”

“Have you told him what happened years ago?”

A frown creased Dakota’s forehead. “No. Did you?”

“It’s not my place. It’s your life, and if you choose not to tell him what happened after he left, I won’t be the one enlightening him. I guess you’ll fill Logan in in your own good time.”

“I…I’m not sure, Ms. Jeannie. I’ve been mad at him for so long, I honestly don’t know if things will ever be right between us, but we’ve called a temporary cease-fire for now. I won’t lie, a part of me wants to leave well enough alone, and never see him again, but he’s making me a business offer that I would be foolish to turn down. Besides, I don’t have time for a bruised heart.”

Norma Jean shook her head with displeasure. “It’s more than bruised, Dakota. You experienced a devastating event in your life. It’s completely understandable how it would alter how you view things, but you defer your personal life too much if you ask me. You need to get your house in order.”

* * *

Dakota was still mulling over Norma Jean’s words on the drive home. Norma Jean was a wonderful woman, but when she got a notion in her head, nothing was going to deter her from her goal. As far as Dakota was concerned, she had given love a shot, and got kicked in the teeth. She was happy, and then everything got stripped away. Dakota accepted that sometimes as much as you want something, there’s no guarantee that it’s meant to be.

It was late by the time she left work, so she stopped at one of her favorite Mediterranean restaurants to pick up dinner. Dakota lived less than twenty miles from Chicago in the suburban village of Glenview. When she got home, she took a quick shower and changed into loungewear. She ate dinner while searching Belle Resort’s company website. Jotting down notes on a pad as she went, Dakota focused on first impressions and action items that she would organize later.

She clicked another link and discovered a travel magazine article on Logan’s taking over the resorts. It was a good article, but the writer pondered whether Logan had enough experience working in the hospitality industry and if it would ultimately hurt the family’s resort chain. Apparently, bookings had dropped when the transition was announced, but had slowly edged their way back. She stared at Logan’s picture. He was wearing a navy blue suit with a bold red-striped silk tie. There was a slight tan to his golden-brown skin, and he had a smile that made him appear confident and capable. He also looked as though he held a secret.

He also looked incredibly good.

Dakota stared at her laptop screen. There was no denying that Logan was good-looking. He had classic features, and at six-foot-two, he was well-built and muscular. Inheriting his mother’s sable-brown eyes, he also had her knack for winning people over. When he smiled, his whole face lit up, which only served to make him much more irresistible. What bothered Dakota is why her conscience had just reminded her of that fact.

There were no disillusions at having to work with Logan. It would be a huge test of her patience and fortitude because she still wanted to wring his neck sometimes, but violent thoughts notwithstanding, Dakota was excited to be working on a new project, especially one with the potential for add-on work later.

Her phone rang, interrupting her musings.

“Hey, Koty.”

She frowned. “Having second thoughts?”

“About you?” He chuckled. “Never. I believe you’re the perfect woman for the job,” Logan assured her.

She relaxed. “Why?”

“Your company has received a great deal of accolades in the short time you’ve been in business. You know your stuff, and your vision to date has never been wrong.”

Unable to help herself, she felt her chest swell with pride. “How do you know?”

“I read and asked around.”

That did not surprise her, and yet it did.

“I didn’t need validation that you’re good, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

A smile crept up her face. “I was thinking no such thing.”

“Liar. I’ve got decisive plans for Belle Cove. I need you to transform my vision into something tangible…that will seduce our guests. What I need to know is can you do that, Koty?”

Could she do that? Heck yeah, she could.

“I’m confident that I can give you exactly what your company needs.”

“Great, then how about we meet tomorrow to discuss it further?”

Dakota agreed, and then hung up. She went back to her spot at the table and resumed her work on finding everything she could get her hands on pertaining to Belle Resorts…and Logan.

* * *

It was still dark outside when Dakota arrived early to work the next morning. She had gotten hardly any sleep, but that was of little consequence. The preliminary ideas rolling around in her head were now down on paper. She felt good about them, but would need to garner input from Logan. She would also need to schedule an on-site inspection as soon as possible so that she could spend some time evaluating their business practices and operations from the ground up. That was when Dakota really got in and rolled up her sleeves. Her presence unnerved people at times, but it was imperative to her job.

Logan had arrived at nine, and stayed over two hours while he presented his briefing to Dakota. When he was done, she had a better understanding of where he wanted to lead the company.

“So, how soon can you make yourself available to go down and check things out?”

“Immediately,” she replied.

“Great. How about Friday?”

Dakota nodded. “That’s fine.”

“How long do you think you’ll need for your evaluation?”

“Normally it takes a few days to conduct interviews, do an inspection and tour the facility on my own. I’d like to interact with the guests, as well. You know, ask some questions and get their impressions. From there I’ll put together a design briefing on the proposed changes.”

They finalized arrangements before Logan stood up to leave.

“I’ll have my travel agent contact you immediately.”

“That’ll be fine.”

“Great. I’ll see you Friday. I’m looking forward to your visit.”

“Me, too.”

No sooner had Logan left than Susan came into Dakota’s office.

“That went well.”

“It sure did,” Dakota said with a smile.

“I stand corrected. Apparently, you will be able to handle working with Logan.”

“Told you. By the way, I’ll be going to Jamaica on Friday.”

Susan sighed. “Warm breezes, breathtaking views, sun and pristine sand. Oh, I wish I were going. It’s about time I had another island fling.”

“Another?” Dakota laughed. “You mean the first one, don’t you?”

Susan leaned back in her chair. “A girl can dream, can’t she? Jamaica is a wonderful place to kindle a romance.” Her gaze rested on Dakota. “Or rekindle one.”

Dakota blushed. “I wouldn’t know. Logan and I only kissed once. We never had a romance, so there’s no fire to stoke.”

Her friend’s gaze missed nothing. “But you wanted one.”

* * *

Adrian dug his hand into the bowl of Hunter Mix. He chewed softly and then washed it down with a swig of his beer. “So, how’s your Win Dakota Back plan going?”

Logan put his feet up on his coffee table and regarded his cousin. “It’s a bit early for status updates, isn’t it?”

Adrian shrugged. “Maybe. Maybe not. Things could be progressing at an alarming pace for all I know.”

“Nope, but then I knew that going in. I’m not putting time limits on anything. Dakota and I have a lot of ground to cover.”

“Don’t I know it,” Adrian said with a wry smile. “You should’ve seen how long it took Milán and me to declare a truce, but when we did…”

Logan held up a hand. “Spare me the details.”

“It’s not what you think. We were friends quite a while before anything turned serious.”

“Yeah, well, Dakota and I aren’t even that. She is amicable toward me, but that’s strictly for work purposes.”

“Are you sure?”

“Of course I am. She’s only tolerating being in the same room with me because of the resort. Trust me, I’m under no illusions on that score.”

“I’m no stranger to work being the only tie that binds, believe me. I’m not going to lie, you do have your work cut out for you, but she’ll come around.”

Logan grabbed a handful of nuts. “Hope springs eternal.”

“Speaking of eternal, has my mother been pressing you to wade out into the dating pool?”

“Constantly, but I remain immune.”

Adrian shook his head. “I love my mother dearly, but sometimes her idea of boundaries is comical.”

“I’m seeing that, but don’t worry about me. I’ll be in Jamaica with Dakota for the next few days, so I’ll be off the radar.”

“Logan, you could be in the Antarctic, and you’d still be on Norma Jean’s radar.”

He laughed at that. “True.” He was silent for a few moments but then had to ask, “So, has Dakota been dating anyone?”

“Not that I know of. Why else would my mother be trying so hard to fix her up?”

That bit of news did not sit well with Logan. Up until that point, he had assumed that the only love life Norma Jean was interested in was his. “Has she been successful?”

“About as successful as she’s been getting you to go on a date.”

Dakota being romantically involved with another man was not on the list of things he enjoyed thinking about. A few times over the years, he had returned to find her in a relationship. Logan had been cordial, but it bothered him. Considering that he was the one who bolted, he knew it was hypocritical to be troubled by it, but his heart did not always agree with his head—especially where she was concerned.

Adrian waved his hand in front of his cousin’s face a few times. “Dude, how long are you going to sit here daydreaming about her?”

“What? Sorry, didn’t hear you,” Logan replied, but what he wanted to say was, as long as it takes.

Chapter 4

What am I going to do about Logan?

By Thursday, Dakota was exhausted for two reasons. The first was that she had worked late every night on her St. Charles project. There was still no luck finding the sought-after Rothschild sheets, and so far Susan’s sources yielded no results. She had tried to steer Nancy’s tastes in another direction, but her client wasn’t having it.

“Darling, did you hear? Bootsie Ellerby has a set of Rothschilds!”

This was not what Dakota wanted to hear. “Really?”

“Yes! It’s true! I saw them for myself. My manicurist knows her manicurist, and she told me that Bootsie actually went to Rothschild’s home and refused to leave until he agreed to sell her a set. Can you believe it?” Nancy exclaimed. “Apparently, he’s loaded. Comes from old, old money. Why he’s designing sheets is anyone’s guess. Maybe it’s some type of hobby. I don’t care what it is, I just want those sheets. Bootsie’s set was gorgeous. Much nicer than the one I saw at Roger’s store. I hope you weren’t planning on getting them from him. I think you’d do better going to the source, don’t you?

“Wouldn’t you know, Bootsie had the gall to refuse to give me his address? She just wants to lord them over me, but we’ll show her, won’t we, Dakota? I’m sure with your contacts, you’ve got him on speed dial.”

I wish. Relieved that Nancy had come up for air, she wrote down what information she could gather from her client’s monologue so that Susan could pursue the lead. Dakota reasoned that Bootsie loved to talk as much as Nancy did, and if that was the case, it was time to get a manicure.

After seeing her client to the door, Dakota left a note for Susan to stop in when she returned from lunch. Needing a break from sheets and Bootsie Ellerby, she focused on Belle Cove—and Logan.

It was not her intention to pique her friend’s interest to know more about the past, but as far as Dakota was concerned, their history was ancient.

Still, things had progressed better than she expected. Their last meeting had gone very well. Pictures were great, but Dakota was looking forward to seeing the resort firsthand. She had received a call from his travel agent with instructions for their trip. A car was coming to pick her up and take her to the airport. From there, she would fly to Ocho Rios on the Montagues’ company jet. Dakota could not contain the thrill she felt. It would be her first time on a private plane, and she looked forward to the experience.

Dakota’s doorbell chimed. Susan. Her friend had agreed to help her pack for her trip. When she opened the door, she greeted her bag-laden office manager with a smile.

“You’re late. I’m just about finished with the packing.”

“Sorry, but now we have more time to socialize.”

Dakota shook her head, but stood aside to let Susan enter. “What’s all this?”

“I’m sorry I’m late, but I figured with all the packing and worrying you’d be doing, you wouldn’t have time to make yourself dinner, so I brought it with me.”

She followed Susan to the kitchen and helped her unload the cartons of Chinese food.

“I’m not worrying.”

“Uh-huh.” Susan moved around Dakota’s kitchen with ease. She retrieved two wineglasses and a corkscrew out of the cabinet while Dakota set the table.

“Thanks for this,” she said after Susan poured the wine.

“You’re welcome.”

“So, are you ready to begin this project?”

Dakota was thoughtful while she chewed. “As ready as I’ll ever be. Who knew after all these years that I’d see Logan again, much less have him for a client.”

“I’ll admit, the timing is…interesting,” Susan replied.

Dakota let out an unladylike snort. “Don’t read too much into it. I wrote him off once before…and after this is over, I’ll do it again.”

“You think it’ll be that easy this time?”

“Sure, why not?”

“Why not? Dakota, it’s obvious that the two of you have unfinished business. I’ll hand it to you, up until this point, you’ve done a very good job of acting like he doesn’t exist. The fact that I didn’t know about him, or how deep the history runs between you two, is proof enough.”

There was a light hint of censure in Susan’s voice that Dakota did not miss.

“I know. I’m sorry, Suzy. I just… It was hard enough living through that time in my life without having to relay what happened to anyone else.”

“What did happen, Dakota?”

She sighed and sat back in her chair, absentmindedly swirling the wine in her glass. “It all started with an argument. From the moment I began spending summers at my grandparents’ house, the neighborhood kids made fun of me for being the outsider. I was getting teased badly by a group of girls one day, when Logan Montague walked past and heard them. He stood up for me. He was my champion that day. Eventually, we became inseparable, and I spent every summer in Chicago. My parents thought it was better for me to branch out and get to know more kids, but I didn’t want to. We played together, spent long hours reading our favorite books, talking about the future, or being knee-deep in some adventure. Logan was my best friend for five years. One day he betrayed me by ruining my relationship with Michael. Not to mention leaving, and breaking my heart—after we kissed, of course.”

Susan sat back and crossed her legs to get comfortable. “Whoa, wait. Who’s Michael?”

“He was my first boyfriend. Logan didn’t like him from the start, and always razzed me about him. He never missed an opportunity to point out how Michael was lacking in some way. I was livid at his interference in my love life, but I was torn because he was my best friend. In the end, I thought him very high-handed to assume Michael wasn’t right for me.”

“Well, did you talk to him about it?”

“Constantly, but it always ended in arguments, so I ignored his remarks about Michael. I thought I was in love. And pow, just like that, it was over. He broke up with me. I was devastated. Later…I found out the extent of Logan’s dislike for him.”

“How?”

“Michael admitted that he’d been talked into breaking it off with me—by Logan.”

Susan gasped. “No way!”

Dakota nodded. “He’d scored courtside seats for a Bulls game, but that didn’t stop him from telling me all about Logan’s machinations to bust us up. I’m sure Logan didn’t factor that into the deal. Sadly, that incident made me realize that in order for Logan’s attempts to be successful, it meant Michael wasn’t as committed to me as he’d claimed. Years later, I considered myself lucky that it ended.”

“Lucky why?”

“By seeing how the love of my life turned out. Michael is as big a jerk now as when we were teenagers. Why I didn’t see it then is beyond me. Regardless of how angry I was at Logan, I have to admit that his butting in where he didn’t belong saved me a lot of heartache later.”

Too bad he didn’t stay around to find that out. At first, she missed Logan so bad, Dakota thought she would never recover. It was during that time she realized that her attachment ran deeper than mere friendship.

“Hello?”

Dakota snapped out of her reverie. “Sorry. You know, it took me a while to get over it, but after retracing the events in my head, I convinced myself that Logan acted out of jealousy. I suspected that deep down, he loved me.”

“And did you feel the same?”

She nodded. “Especially after that kiss. It felt like we had shared such a connection when it happened. That hope prompted me to go see him at college. He’d written me several times, but I didn’t respond. Months passed before I realized I had to tell him how I felt, but that idea blew up in my face.”

“Why?”

“Long story short, I went to see him and he was…he was with another woman. With her,” Dakota stressed.

“Oh,” Susan said sympathetically. She reached across the table and squeezed her friend’s hand. “I’m so sorry, Dakota. I know what a rough time that was for you. I can’t imagine having to face everything alone, and then to decide and declare your love just to have it—”

“Blow up in my face?”

“Not work out,” Susan finished. “I know it must’ve been hard.”

“You have no idea. Anyway, I returned home disillusioned, embarrassed and just plain numb. And that’s the end of the story. I was stupid to think that Logan felt that way about me. I’d lashed out at him after learning the truth about Michael, and it was the worst argument we’d ever had. I told him to stay out of my personal life. We made up weeks later, and then out of the blue, he left. Each time he returned, it was tense between us. In retrospect, how can I fault him now for doing exactly what I’d asked?”

“Still, you should’ve told him about your visit and how you felt—among other things.”

“What good would that’ve done? It wouldn’t have changed anything I was struggling with at the time. No, it was better he didn’t know I was there.”

“But you’d have had the support you needed. A shoulder to cry on. You were heartbroken, Dakota. I’m convinced having Logan by your side would’ve helped you cope. Now there’s a huge what if cloud hanging over the two of you.”

“Oh, no, it’s not.” Dakota got up and began clearing the table. “There’s nothing hanging between us, Suzy. Me and relationships don’t work out. It’s been a painful lesson, but one I’ve learned in spades.”

“I disagree. I think you two should’ve cleared the air years ago. If for no other reason, it would ease the tension between you now.”

“There’s no tension.”

Susan tilted her head to the side. “Were you not in the same room I was?”

Dakota placed the remainder of the Chinese food in the refrigerator while Susan wiped off the table.

“Look, there’s nothing between us but a very lucrative contract, and I plan on upholding my end of it.”

“If you say so.” Susan walked over and hugged Dakota. “I’d better head home now.” She grabbed her purse. “Have a safe trip, and call me the moment you land, and be sure to take plenty of pictures.”

Dakota returned the hug. “I will.”

She walked Susan to the door and watched as she got into her car and drove off.

Back in her bedroom, Dakota went over their conversation. She meant what she said. She had tried to mend her heart and find love again, but after a string of bad relationships, Dakota had decided that enough was enough. She would never give another person the power to devastate her again, and so far that plan was working.

Having to recount the details to Susan had been harder than she expected. It had left her a bit apprehensive about being in such close proximity with Logan again. Susan was right; they did have unfinished business that would need to be addressed at some point. How long could she put it off? They had never had a conversation about what went wrong between them. Each time Dakota got up her nerve, Logan was not around, or he had a girlfriend. The timing had never seemed right.

You need to relax. Being organized and having things “just so” usually did the trick, so she double-checked her luggage and travel documents. When that did not work, Dakota got into bed and turned on the nature-sounds app on her cell phone. The soothing sounds of babbling brooks, wind blowing through the trees and birds chirping always made her feel better. Taking deep breaths, Dakota closed her eyes and sank against her pillows. Tomorrow she would be meeting Logan in Jamaica, and her job would really begin. It would not bode well if she arrived at her assignment a bundle of nerves with bags under her eyes.

“Come on, girl, you’ve got this,” she whispered. “Logan Montague is just another client, and you have a job to do.”

By the next morning, Dakota was singing a different tune.

“Oh, no, I can’t do this,” she muttered to herself, but it was too late. She was already stuck, and being on a plane moments before it took off was too late to get cold feet. The little exercise she did last night to ensure that she could handle herself had gone south really quick. She was up for hours trying to convince herself that she could treat Logan like an ordinary client. By the time she drifted into an exhausted slumber, she was certain that everything would go off without a hitch.

The driver arrived to escort her to the airport, and now she was on board awaiting takeoff on a very impressive Gulfstream jet. She was very sleepy, but from the outside, she looked flawless. She was used to working with clients, traveling and long hours. Dakota always carried makeup and other provisions so that she looked pulled together.

She ran her fingers over the diamond Mickey Mouse pendant she was wearing beneath her blouse, rubbing it as though it were a good-luck charm. She scanned the inside of the plane. It was all about comfort. The plane’s interior was a rich buff color with black accents throughout the cabin. Her club chair was plush leather with a table separating the chair across from her. There were two divans with small pillows flanking either side of the plane. A glass partition separated another area that had recliner chairs and television monitors. She saw a door beyond and wondered if it was a bedroom.

“Good morning, Miss Carson. My name is Angela, and I’ll be attending you this morning. Would you care for something from the galley while we’re waiting to take off?”

“Yes, some tea if you have it.”

“Of course. Is there a specific kind you’d prefer?” Angela recited her choices.

“I’ll take the breakfast blend, with cream, no sugar. Thank you.”

“My pleasure, Miss Carson.”

She wished she had a book or something she could read to occupy her time and calm her nerves. Maybe she could read an ebook from the Kindle app on her cell phone while they waited to take off. Dakota was scrolling through her selections when she heard Angela’s voice again.

“Good morning, Mr. Montague.”

“How are you, Angela?”

Dakota almost dropped her cell phone. What was he doing here?

“We’re right on schedule, sir. Captain Tanner will be out shortly. Can I get you anything?”

“No, thanks.”

Logan walked past Dakota’s seat and sat down across from her. Dakota did her best not to look surprised when she gazed at him with what she hoped was a welcoming smile.

“Good morning, Dakota.”

“How are you, Logan?”

“Well, thanks.” He got settled, and then said, “Surprised to see me, aren’t you?”

“A little. I thought you were at the resort.”

Logan handed his briefcase to Angela and then fastened his seat belt. “I decided to wait so that we could travel together. Gives us a chance to talk before you get dropped into the thick of things.”

She could not argue with his logic. She shifted in her leather seat. “Sounds good.”

Dakota shut her cell phone off and placed it in her purse while Captain Tanner spoke to Logan about the flight plan and arrival time. He introduced himself on the way back to the cockpit, and assured Dakota that she was in good hands.

As she served Dakota her tea, Angela leaned in to whisper, “He says that every time.”

“It’s true every time,” Captain Tanner called over his shoulder.

Angela blushed at being overheard. Dakota wondered if that was the real reason her cheeks turned pink. She could have sworn there was a lingering look between the two flight crew members. Dakota was surprised to look up and find Logan staring at her.

“I’m sorry,” she said quickly. “Did you ask me something? I was lost in thought.”

“No, you’re fine.”

When he made no move to elaborate, Dakota turned her attention to her cup of tea. She inhaled the strong aroma and cautiously sipped the hot liquid. Eventually, she began to feel more alert. She was almost done when the captain announced that takeoff was in a few minutes. Dakota busied herself with adjusting her seat belt while Angela carted away her cup and trash. Moments later, they were taxiing down the runway and were airborne.

She enjoyed the thrill of taking off. The sudden jolt of speed, the way she felt right before it left the earth. Landing was the same. When they had reached their cruising altitude, Angela came out to ask if either would like any refreshments.

“I’m good, thanks,” Dakota said.

“I’ll have a Pellegrino, Ange.”

Dakota glanced over at him after Angela left. “So, what do your parents think about all the changes you’d like to make?”

Logan shrugged. “They’re interested, but willing to let me run things as I see fit. I guess they’re just happy I’m back in the fold.”

“What have you been doing with yourself…besides taking over your family’s business?”

He tilted his head to the side. “Are you really interested or just trying to make small talk?”

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