DAISY

“I hate you, Bud White. I fucking hate you,” I hissed under my breath.

I had fallen asleep while waiting for Cory when a loud thump woke me up. Cautiously, I slipped out of bed and grabbed the baseball bat by the closet. Creeping to the door, I mustered all the imposing strength my voice would allow.

“Who’s there?”

The response was a muffled groan. Peeking out, I saw a body crumbled face down in the middle of the floor. Cory!

“Cory, baby, what happened?” Dropping my weapon, I ran and knelt beside him. My heart stopped at what I saw. He was covered in blood; running down his face, soaking his shirt and clotting in his stubble-short hair. The back of his head had a huge lump and there was a long gash bleeding heavily.

“Who did this to you?” He just moaned in response. “Gotta call 9-1-1,” I said frantically and leapt to grab the phone.

He rolled over. “No … no,” he croaked. “Forget 9-1-1, doll. Call Biebe.” He sat up slowly, groaning with every move his muscles made. “Gotta talk to Biebe.”

“Look, you need to be checked out.” I argued. “You might need stitches or maybe have a concussion.”

“I’m okay, baby, honestly. But right now, I gotta talk to Biebe. It’s important.” 

Yeah, important. That’s what his granddad said, too … and that I had to let him finish this out. But, fuck it all, old Grandad never mentioned Cory could get hurt in the process. This was nuts. But then again, I’ve seen Cory like this before … doggedly following a puzzle until all the pieces fit. He can be a determined SOB when he wants to be. Nothing could stop him then and I’m damned sure nothing would stop him now. Not even this. So, I resigned myself and did as he asked. I called Biebe.

 “Yeah.” He answered after the first ring, his voice groggy.

“John, it’s Daisy. Sorry for calling so late but someone’s tried to smash Cory’s skull in. He’s here, but he won’t let me call an ambulance. He wants to talk to you.”

“Okay … okay. I’ll be right down.” I could hear him shuffling out of bed. “Oh, and call Claudia. If he needs stitches, she can handle it.”

He hung up and I woke Claudia, who said she’d be right over. Meanwhile, I wet a washcloth and tried to wipe some of the blood from Cory’s face and out of his hair. He was sitting up on the floor, leaning against the couch, his eyes closed. My hands were trembling as I ran the wet cloth over his face. He was so pale, his breathing shallow. I sucked in my breath just looking at him. “Who did this?” I whispered. “What have you gotten yourself into?”

He opened those baby blues and looked at me. “Don’ know, Dais. Got hit from behind. But I do know I’m on to somethin’ big.”

Moments later I stood back as Claudia rushed in and went to work examining his head, looking into his eyes, checking his motor skills. “Good, good. Looks good, Cory,” she said. “The cut is not that deep, so you won’t need stitches. But,” she sat back on her heels, “you do need rest, though.” She began bandaging his head just as John arrived.

JOHN

“Whas’up?” Riley moaned as I slid out of bed.

“Nothing, baby, go back to sleep.”

“It can’t be nothing at two-thirty in the morning … it can’t be,” she rolled to sit up but I tucked her back in.

“It’s nothing. Sleep. I’ll be back in a few minutes.”

Jogging down the stairs to Cory’s rooms I really started to worry. Not just about the kid, about my wife too. Already she was in superwoman mode, moving at the speed of light and getting everything on her ten page list of things-to-do finished before she’d drop. If she wants another baby, someone has to make sure she’s not too worn out to fuckin’ carry it. That someone has to be me. Damn, I’m thinking we’ve all gotten ourselves in too deep.

The door was opened and Cory was sitting on the sofa as Claudia packed up her things to leave.

“He okay?”

“Slight concussion for sure, he’ll need to rest, but other than that, his thick skull has saved him,” she grinned and left.

“Daisy, why don’t you go get some sleep,” I suggested, my eyes glued to Cory’s which were speaking volumes. Shit was hitting the fan faster than we expected.

“No,” she said, digging in her heels and sitting at his side. “No way. I want to know what’s going on.”

Great, just what I needed. Then the door opened again. Ben Wade stood in wrinkled sweats and sporting a dangerous, concerned expression. He pushed back his hair. “What happened?” he hissed, eyeing the wounded kid then me.

“How’d you know something happened?” I marveled. Wade’s room is two stories down and in the other damn tower.

“Call it an outlaw’s intuition.”

“That anything like women’s intuition?” Cory grinned.

Ben walked to the window and surveyed out then went to the door and turned the lock. “Not quite as strong.”

“Don’t make me laugh,” the kid chuckled, “hurts too fuckin’ much.”

“Who did this to you, kid?” Ben asked then all our eyes slid to Daisy.

“I’m not leaving this sofa so don’t even think about it. I want to know what’s going on.”

Ben softened, crouched at her knee. “Alright, I can see that … and I understand you wanting to hear it all, but darlin’,” his head tilted and eyes dipped deep into hers. “You look tired, like you need to rest. I promise you, Miss Daisy, we ain’t gonna keep no secrets, you’ll know everything. I’d just rather see you gettin’ some rest right now, sweetheart. And I’ll be sendin’ Cory in soon too. Now, off with you.”

Damn! I gotta try that on Riles. This fucker’s a master! Daisy actually stood, nodded and left for the bedroom like she was hypnotized or something!

WADE

“How’d you do that?” Biebe asked and pointed to the closed bedroom door.

I just shrugged. “I lied.”

Cory shook his aching head and groaned. “You told her we’d tell her everything, Ben.”

“Yeah, I did. We’ll tell her everything we want her to know. Ain’t no good her knowin’ too much, ya hear me, kid?”

“Right.”

“Okay.” I sat and shot a glare at them both. “Spill.”

Cory started, telling what he knew then Biebe chimed in with what he intended. Took everything inside me not to go and kill me a few assholes in town, but that wasn’t gonna work. Not these days and not here. I thought a few minutes. So those fuckers thought they could use me? Time to show ‘em what Ben Wade’s all about. I turned to Biebe.

“When you plannin’ to go register for your campaignin’?”

“I figured next week was soon enough,” he sighed.

“No. You go do it first thing tomorrow. Then you make nice with the retiring mayor, be Mr. Shiny Shoes and stay close to him. Make it look real good, like you wanna keep things like they been.”

I turned to Cory. “You keep doin’ what you’re doin’. Keep saying it’s background for your story. But … watch your sorry ass, will ya? No more of this shit. That was plain stupid, kid. Always keep your back to the wall and watch everything.” The kid nodded, rubbed his temples. “Now get yourself some sleep.” I stood.

“What’re you gonna do, Ben?” came Cory’s voice sounding more like a man twice his age than the kid who just got his ass kicked.

“I’m gonna play dumb. Let those fuckers think they’re playin’ with some town idiot. I’ll let them do and say what they want.”

“Steer clear of Frank Water and Mickey Slade,” Biebe warned and I tilted my head, watched him. He was just tryin’ to protect me but there weren’t no need for that.

“Got no intention of steerin’ clear of them. I want them talkin’ to me and tellin’ me all kinds of things. I’m gonna let them think they can buy me. We get through this and I win, I’ll have what I need to put ‘em six feet under … not literally,” I added with a grin but I could see them wondering.

John cleared his throat. “Maybe we need some help with this.”

“No. And no one says anything. Kid, you make sure your woman don’t know enough that can bury us all if she talks down in the pub.”

John shook his head and I glared.

“I said … no one but us three. We can control this if we keep it quiet and clean.”

Biebe stood nose to nose with me and I was surprised, didn’t think he had it in him. “Wade, we’re treading on dangerous quicksand here. I want Richie in on this. He can make sure everything we learn and everything we do stays legal … or we can all go down. Water and Slade don’t fuck around.”

“Neither do I,” I hissed. He still didn’t back down. “Fine. You talk to Roberts but I don’t want the bastard in my face.”

John’s hand shot out. “Deal.”

I shook then stepped over to the sofa and shook Cory’s hand. We were all on the same page and I got me a new crew. This one was just gonna do things a little different than before.

But for now, it’s time to get some sleep. And I gotta get back to Tracy before she notices I left. Ain’t like I can make all women do what I want. Lots to deal with in the morning, no need for women trouble.

KIM

My hand hurts.

Okay, I know I have a temper and I’ve been trying to keep it in check. I think I’ve done pretty well, but then out of the blue I found myself losing control. I didn’t see it coming and am embarrassed that it happened, and really thought that I could keep Emily from finding out about it. But how was I to know that Kevin Boyer would be popping in to our office to say hello less than an hour later?

I’d somehow managed to make it into my cubicle without Emily noticing the blood on my knuckles. She didn’t ask why I’d left the office so quickly, nor did she ask what I had been up to when I returned fifteen minutes later, but I know that she sensed something was wrong. I was relieved when she didn’t press for explanations and was thankful to have the blessed silence so I could work on coming up with a plausible excuse (okay, lie) about why my hand was all messed up. I mean, she would notice eventually, and would undoubtedly ask what had happened. I didn’t fancy the idea of telling her a lie, but I certainly didn’t want her to know the truth, either.

I wasted my time by worrying. Not ten minutes after I’d come back to the office there was a knock on the door and the sound of a man’s voice.

“Hey, anybody home?”

Emily’s voice rang out sweet and clear. “Hi, may I help you?”

“Hi, you must be Emily? I’m Kevin Boyer.”

I ducked down further in my chair.

Shit. As quietly as I could I peeked up over the cubicle partition to get a better look. The guy was easily six-two or more, and Emily was looking at him with this dreamy expression on her face. I slunk back down into my chair and covered my eyes with my good hand. I was so busted.

“Oh my. You’re Kevin?” The admiration in Emmie’s voice was unmistakable. I heard her get up from her desk and I could just imagine her expression. The guy looked like he could grace the front cover of Construction Studs Monthly.

“I am, and you must be Emily. It’s nice to finally meet you.” I imagined his great bear of a hand reaching out to shake Emmie’s in greeting and I slunk down yet even lower.

“Hey, I wanted to have a word with Kim … he around?”

“Why yes, as a matter of fact, he is. Hey Kim, come out and meet Kevin Boyer.”

Damn. Okay, maybe I could fake my way through the introduction. Maybe he hadn’t been informed of what had occurred and I could just act like nothing had happened.

I got up from my chair and went out to greet him, holding out my injured hand and praying that he didn’t have a vice-like grip. “Pleased to meet ya, mate.”

To my embarrassment, he ignored my gesture. I tried to play it off, but I know I looked like a bloody idiot. Emmie picked up on the tension right away and she actually stepped between us!

“How can we help you, Kevin?” She crossed her arms across her chest and her body language seemed to be daring him to challenge her. Bloody hell … I had no idea my girl was such a little spitfire, and even though I was ashamed that she felt the need to protect me, I appreciated her loyalty. It was downright sexy.

Kevin’s eyes shifted between me and Emmie and I think he realized what was up between us, because his face lit up with a knowing smile. “Kim, I was all ready to come down here and raise a little hell with you over what you did to Adam Caruthers, my lead man, but I think I understand a little better now what’s going on.”

His whole body relaxed as he leaned his back against the wall and regarded the two of us. Emmie gave me a confused look, but didn’t say a word.

“I wanted to apologize about my guys coming up here and disturbing Emily and the other employees.” He shot a stern look my way then his face softened as he addressed Emmie. “I’ve instructed my guys that if they need anything up here to call you first.”

He reached into his front shirt pocket and handed Emmie a cell phone. “It’s one of those walkie-talkie things. We always order these for the men whenever we’re on a job and I’m hoping this will help prevent any further … altercations.”

Emmie glanced at me then looked up at Kevin. “Altercations?”

Kevin glanced over at me and grinned apologetically. “Ah. I thought she knew. Hey, sorry Kim; I can’t say that I don’t blame you for decking Caruthers. I’d probably have the same reaction if some burly construction guy was making moves on my wife but he’s one of my best men and I’d like to keep the work place brawling down to a minimum. I’ve already spoken with him and he knows he was out of line by coming up here, but the guys are gonna need to have some interaction with the office on a regular basis so the walkie talkies seem like the best solution. Do you think we can work with this as a compromise?”

Emmie gave me a funny look and I couldn’t bring myself to meet her eyes. I looked at Kevin instead. “Uh, yeah, I think this’ll work. Um, sorry about what happened …”

Kevin grinned and waved his hand as if swatting at a fly. Only, I felt like the bloody damn fly. “Hey, it’s already forgotten. Caruthers knows he was in the wrong and told me to tell you that if he runs into you at one of the pubs in town, the drinks are on him. I say we just move forward and concentrate on completing the construction. Sound like a plan?”

I nodded, not knowing what else I could possibly say. Emmie glanced over at me again and I could tell that I was in for it.

“Great. Hey, listen. It was nice meeting both of you.” He pulled away from the wall and started to head out when he stopped and turned back towards Emmie. “The construction foreman is Walt Henry and his number’s programmed into the phone. My number’s in there too if you need me, but Walt’s the main guy you’ll be dealing with if you need anything.”

We both watched him leave and I was about to make my way back to my cubicle, hoping that I could avoid the third degree, but no such luck. She turned around and glared at me.

“Did you really get into a fight with that guy? Why would you do something like that? He didn’t mean any harm, he was just being nice.”

I held up my hands. “Baby, the whole thing’s been blown way out of proportion …”

That’s when Emmie noticed my hand. “You DID get into a fight! Look at your hand! I can’t believe that you’d do something so … so… mean.”

I tried to calm her down but she was having none of it. “It was nothing … I swear.”

“Nothing? Look at your hand!” She grabbed my wrist and I flinched in pain. Damn, but she has a strong little grip.

“Your knuckles are bloody and swollen.” She threw down my wrist in disgust. “I can’t believe you, Kim Barrett. Acting like some big …OAF.”

Oaf? She actually called me an oaf! Okay, I guess I deserved it, but an oaf?

“Hey, where are you going?”

She grabbed her purse and started for the door.

“I need to take a walk. If I stay here in this room one more minute I’m gonna end up saying things that I’d rather not say. I’ll be back when I’ve calmed down and don’t you dare try to call me on my cell phone.”

She snapped up her sweater off the peg by the door and stomped out down the hall, leaving me standing there feeling like a complete arse. I guess I deserved it.

I went back to my desk and dialed up the gift shop to order a dozen roses. “Um, do you have any without thorns?”

EMILY

That big … BULLY!

JESSIE

I felt a little guilty, leaving Lachlan with the mess of boxes that still needed to be unpacked back at the house, but with our wedding only three weeks away; I needed a really terrific pair of shoes to go with my dress.

“Do you want me to pick up anything while I’m in town?” I called out as I reached for my car keys sitting on the kitchen counter. “Toilet paper? Ice cream? Beer?” 

Lachlan came up behind me and gave my rump playful slap. “We’re fine on the dunny paper, but could you pick up some of that really good coffee, you know, the Kona blend?”

I grimaced. “You’re actually asking me to step inside a coffee shop? Do you know how hard it’s been for me to keep away from the stuff? The smell alone almost gives me the DTs.”

“Hold your breath and breathe through your mouth.”

“What?” I turned to face him and he gave me one of his killer smiles.

“Oh come on. Can’t you do just this one little favor for your future husband?” He started making a whimpering puppy dog sound; he knows that always gets to me.

“You big goof. You’re lucky you’re so handsome and irresistible.” I wrapped my arms around his waist and gave him a hug.

“The big one pound bag, not the wimpy little half pounder.” He kissed my nose and let me go. “I’ll try to have most of this stuff put away by the time you come back.”

He turned and went back to what he was doing, surrounded by boxes of kitchen stuff, knick knacks, and almost tripping over one of his old barbells. “Bloody hell!”

I grinned and headed out to the car. We’re just a couple of blocks from the main part of town, but I didn’t know if I’d find anything besides shoes during my outing and I didn’t want to carry a load of bags back to the house. I found a parking space near the city administration building and as I got out of the car and started up the sidewalk I saw someone familiar coming towards me; John Biebe.

“Hey John.” I smiled as we drew closer, noting that he looked a little preoccupied.

“Well hello, Jess.” His handsome face lit up with a grin. “Out and about, I see.”

 I’d been meaning to talk to him and now seemed like as good a time as any. “Yeah, I need to buy the perfect pair of shoes for my wedding dress.”

“The big day’s sneaking up on us, isn’t it?”

“It sure is. And my running into you right now saves me a trip up the hill later. Um, I’ve been wanting to ask you a favor … I mean, don’t feel obligated or anything. If you’d rather not, I understand.”

He cocked his head as he considered what it was I was trying to say. “Why don’t you just go ahead and ask me first before jumping to conclusions, ay?” 

I was afraid that maybe I was keeping him from something important, but as if sensing my nervousness, his expression softened.

“I don’t bite, you know.”

I felt a little silly and almost changed my mind, but the look in his eyes told me that he really wanted to hear what it was that I had to ask. I took a deep breath. “Well, Lach’s asked Jeff Mitchell to be his best man, and we thought it might be fun to ask Pullo if he’d allow Valerie to be our flower girl and all, but I really have no one to walk me down the aisle and give me away. See, my father died a few years back and I don’t really have any close male relatives that I can ask to take his place … um, well, I wanted to ask if you’d maybe consider …?”

Realizing what it was I was asking, he squared his shoulders and his eyes lit up like beacons. “Jessie, I’d be honored.”

“Really?”

“Really.”

“Oh wow. Thank you!” I threw my arms around his neck and kissed his cheek. “You just made my day.”

He seemed a little embarrassed by my show of affection, but he really didn’t seem to mind all that much, judging by his grin.

We exchanged a few more pleasantries and then each went our separate ways. Emily had told me about this great little designer shoe store in town called Twinkle Toes, and I was anxious to check it out. I saw the sign as I headed around the corner, but I also noticed something else; John Nash.

I was surprised to see him downtown. He was looking a little out of sorts, sitting all by himself on one of the wrought iron benches that dot the various storefronts. Thinking that he might need some help I went over.

“Fancy meeting you here.”

He glanced up at me, and I wasn’t sure if he remembered who I was. I was about to introduce myself but he smiled and stood up as I came closer. “Why hello, Jessie Dalton. What a pleasure to see you again.”

I motioned for him to sit back down and sat beside him. “Are you waiting for someone?”

“No, not today. I was just enjoying the lovely Vermont summer weather.”

I felt a sudden sense of protectiveness towards him. Lachlan had told me that he tended to be a little odd, but to me he just seemed slightly befuddled. And kind of cute. I suddenly had an idea.

“Hey, I could use a gentleman’s opinion on something. See that little shop over there?” I pointed across the street towards the Twinkle Toes sign.

“You mean the sign with that silly cat wearing pink high heeled shoes?”

“Yup, that’s the one. I’m going over there to pick out a pair of shoes to match my wedding dress and I could use some help.”

He actually blushed. “Oh I assure you that I know nothing about women’s fashions.”

I wasn’t about to let him off the hook that easily. “Maybe not, but you know what you like. Aw, come on, be a sport. I’ll treat you to lunch afterwards.”

He seemed to consider my offer. “I assume that your young man was unavailable for the task?”

“Well, I want the dress and the shoes to be a surprise. Come on, it’ll be fun.”

He gave me a look that suggested he thought otherwise, but I could tell that he was trying to be a good sport. “Oh, very well.”

We rose, he held out his arm to me and we crossed the street. As we entered the store, he held back a moment, as if assessing the space around him. The front window held an incredible display of the most beautiful shoes that I had ever seen. Satin bejeweled stilettos, rhinestone encrusted combat boots, pink marabou trimmed mules, silver gladiator sandals, thigh high kidskin boots … I felt as if I had died and gone to heaven. I stepped inside and was surrounded by even more incredible shoes displayed on the walls and along the center of the store on large racks. 

“May I help you?”

A stunning redhead stepped out from behind the front counter, dressed in a fabulous black catsuit and wearing a wicked pair of gold cowboy boots. Catching one look at her, John forgot whatever it was that was holding him up outside and rushed over beside me.

I held out my hand. “Hi, my name’s Jessie; I’m getting married in three weeks and I need a really great pair of shoes.”

She took my hand in hers and smiled. Poor John was mesmerized. “Welcome to my store, Jessie and I’m flattered that you’re here. My name is Ekaterina Von Katzen. And is this the lucky groom-to-be?”

She spoke with what sounded like a German accent, pronouncing her words with a sexy, growly purr. She focused her gaze on John and I swear he actually blushed.

“Um, no, this is a friend of the family, John Nash. He’s just helping me pick out my shoes.”

“Oh, you’re interested in women’s footwear, John Nash?” I give the gal credit, she was as sexy as all get out and poor John, well, he just stood there grinning.

Ekaterina turned her attention back to me. “What color is your wedding dress?”

“Pale peach. Very simple in design, so I wanted a pair of shoes that were really knock-out gorgeous.”

“I think I have just the thing.” She glanced at my feet. “Size 8 ½?”

I nodded. Damn, she was good.

“Both of you, please, have a seat. I’ll be right back.”

She went through the doorway that led to the back of the store while I glanced around at the incredible variety of footwear. “My God, this is a foot fetishist’s wet dream.”

A few moments later she rejoined us, carrying several boxes in her arms. John went over to help her.

“Oh, you are such a gentleman, Herr Nash. I’ll bet your wife is very thankful.”

John was still blushing. “I’m not married, Miss Von Katzen.”

Well, you can probably guess the rest. I tried on several pairs of custom designed shoes, settling on a lovely pair of beige satin mules with beaded butterflies across the front. I won’t say what I paid, but I knew they were worth it. I had the feeling that John and Ekaterina wanted to get better acquainted. But as I finished paying and was about to leave, I turned towards John and gave him a nod. “Are we still on for lunch?”

He leaned over and whispered into my ear. “Would you be horribly offended if I had lunch with Miss Von Katzen instead? She’s invited me upstairs for a taste of her homemade apple strudel.”

I grinned. “Knock yourself out. Will you be able to get back to the inn okay?”

Ekaterina took it upon herself to provide the answer. “I’ll make sure that our mutual friend gets home safely.”

Realizing that I was being politely dismissed, I wished them both happy snacking and left them to their own devices. John grinned as I waved goodbye, mouthing the words, thank you. I caught myself laughing as I made my way back to the car, deciding to skip lunch in town and head back and fix it at home instead. Perhaps Lachlan would be in the mood for Campbell’s soup and a roast beef sandwich?

“Hey, I’m back!” I called out as I walked in through the kitchen door. I sat the bag containing my shoes down on the counter and looked around. Lachlan had done what he promised and had cleared away most of the boxes, but he was nowhere to be found.

“Babe?”

No answer. I heard something that sounded like a box being pushed across the floor in the other room but when I went over to investigate, there was no one there.

“Lach?”

The house was dead silent, save for the humming of the ancient refrigerator in the kitchen. Funny, I could have sworn that I heard someone moving things around ... I stood still and listened.

Nothing.

When I felt a hand come down on my shoulder I let out a scream.

“Hey, it’s only me!” It was Lachlan.

“Oh my God, you scared the hell out of me!” I meant it. I didn’t even hear him coming up behind me.

“You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“Why didn’t you answer me when I called for you?”

He shrugged his shoulders. “I was outside breaking down all those boxes. I didn’t hear a thing. Hey, did you get my coffee?”

The coffee! I pressed my hand to my forehead. “I forgot.”

“You forgot?”

Uh oh. He didn’t look happy with me at all. “Yeah babe, I’m really sorry. I ran into John Biebe in town and I asked him if he’d give me away at our wedding. Then I ran into John Nash of all people, and he helped me buy my shoes and then …”

“Nash helped you pick out shoes? Wait a minute … what am I missing?”  He made the time out sign and I couldn’t help but laugh at his expression; it was a cross between confusion and maybe a hint of, dare I say it, jealousy?

“You’re not missing anything. I found him sitting on a park bench and asked him if he’d help me pick out my shoes. He seemed a little uncomfortable, but he sure hit it off with the gal who owned the shoe store. When I left them, she was about to close up shop and take him upstairs for some apple strudel.”

Lachlan shook his head. “I don’t want to know any more. Who knew Nash had a foot fetish?”

“I think he has an even bigger thing for sexy German redheads. You should have seen it – like a bee to honey.”

“Well, I’m happy for Nash. Maybe a bit of strudel will do him good. But I can’t believe that you forgot my coffee.”

Men. Sometimes they can be such babies.

NATALIE 

“Can I offer you some coffee?”

Kevin had stopped by to fill me in on the house. I’d just put the girls down for their nap, and it was my quiet time. Kevin sat at the table, spread out pictures of the house and opened up the laptop.

“Here’s some video I shot yesterday. This is the approach …” He went through everything, showing the landscaping, the deck, the view. It was magnificent! And inside was just as gorgeous. I was so happy.

“It’s wonderful, Kevin. Just beautiful.”

He glowed. “Yes, I’m rather proud of it. Now, we’re finishing up some last touches and it will be ready for you just as planned, right on schedule.”

“That’s great, and …” But, I never got to ask my question. The phone interrupted me. Irritated, I checked the caller id, and grinned. “It’s Jack, Kevin. Gotta take this.”

“Sweetheart,” I heard his delicious rumble in my ear.

“Jack, you won’t believe this. Kevin’s here and has pictures of the house. It’s gorgeous, Jack. Just beautiful.” I was so excited, the words kept tumbling out of my mouth.

“I’m mightily glad, my dear. Mightily glad.”

I gushed on. “And, it’s on schedule. We can move in just as we planned.”

“Well, that is good news.”

“And, well … how is the sail going, Jack? I’d heard there was a hurricane. Has it caused any problems?”

“No, no. Well, yes. We have decided to change course. Avoid the weather.”

“That makes sense. Does it mean you’ll be home early?” My hopes were soaring. Jack home early! I missed him so much.

“Um, no. No. Actually, my dear, it will be a longer cruise. We will be at sea two more weeks.”

My hopes sank. “Two more weeks? But, Jack, we were supposed to move when you got home. You won’t be here for the move? You’re leaving this to do on my own?” My voice grew shrill.

“Well, I was thinking …” His voice was calm, soothing. I wasn’t buying it.

My disappointment rapidly turned to anger. “No. No. You can’t do that Jack. You promised to be here, to help with the move.”

“But, my little love, we can delay our move.”

“No, we can’t Jack. We’ve been here too long already. Riley and John need the space.”

“It will only be a delay of two weeks. I’m sure they’ll understand,” he reasoned. “I have a responsibility to my crew, to the students. I must consider their needs.”

“Their needs? What about our needs? Mine and the girls? We have needs too, Jack. We need you here.” My eyes welled with hurt, disappointment, anger. “Does everyone else come before us, Jack? Don’t we matter to you?”

He sighed. “Yes, Natalie. You do matter, but I must carry out my duty. And right now, my duty is to my ship and her crew. You must try to understand that.”

“Well, I don’t understand,” I spat stubbornly. “I’ll never understand. So, you just go back to your ship and do whatever you want to do. Don’t even think about us. It doesn’t matter what we want, anyway.”

“But, Natalie …”

“No, no, Jack.” I stopped, closed my eyes and took a breath. I had to stop this before I really lost it. “Kevin’s here and I can’t talk anymore. I’ve got to go.”

“But, my love …”

“Can’t talk anymore. Got to go. Goodbye, Jack.”

I heard his quiet voice as I hung up the phone. “Goodbye, m’dear.”

I took another few breaths before I turned to Kevin. He sat quietly at the table, obviously hearing everything but politely ignoring the conversation.

“Uh, sorry ‘bout that.”

He looked up and shrugged. “No worries, not a problem.”

“Can we talk about this later? Maybe tomorrow?”

He nodded. “Sure, sure. Just let me gather this up and we’ll meet tomorrow. Here at the same time?”

“Sure. That’s fine.”

I followed him to the door and quietly closed it behind him. I felt like slamming it, throwing things, smashing plates, breaking windows. But instead, I just crumbled into a heap and cried.

KIM

I’d been given the silent treatment all afternoon and the drive back to Emmie’s place wasn’t any chattier. The roses I’d ordered and placed on her desk with a letter of apology had both found their way into the trash the moment she came back from her walk. I gave up trying to have a conversation with her and wasn’t surprised when she told me that she wanted to spend the night at her own apartment. Alone. Problem was, I had driven her to work that morning and she needed a ride home.

Okay, I knew that I’d blown it. While I didn’t really understand why Emmie had her knickers in such a bunch over this whole thing, I wasn’t about to get into a blue over it. Does anyone really understand women?

When I pulled up outside her apartment, she didn’t say a word as she got out of the car. No goodbye, not even a go to hell. I watched as she walked up the stairs and opened her front door. She didn’t even glance back at me before going inside. Suddenly deciding that I’d had enough, I got out of the car and followed after her. Maybe what we really needed was a good old fashioned fight after all.

EMILY

I heard him come up the stairs and for some reason I didn’t lock the door behind me. Fine. If he wanted to fight after he knew full well that I didn’t, then who was I to keep him from looking like a jerk?

The big oaf. I hate it when men go around treating their girlfriends like their own personal property. That poor Adam Caruthers was just being sweet and Kim went after him like a …crazed caveman! Gave the poor guy a black eye and everything! Can you imagine? I had no idea that Kim was so … jealous.

I heard the front door open but I ignored him when he came inside.

“Emmie, we really need to talk about this.”

Oh no, we didn’t. “I have nothing to say to you, Kim Barrett … except that you have a lot of nerve, busting in here like some big, menacing thug.”

He stopped dead in his tracks. “Baby, your front door was open … it wasn’t like I kicked it in to get to you.” He seemed to consider my words because his expression changed from abject apology to complete puzzlement. “So now along with being an oaf, I’m also a thug, huh? Gee, I sure am some big terrible monster, aren’t I?”

I looked at him and shook my head. I could have fired back with some well chosen words, but I just turned and headed into my bedroom instead, leaving him standing there with his mouth open in surprise.

“Hey, don’t walk away from me!” I was about to close the bedroom door in his face but he pushed it open and came at me. “I’ve just about had enough of this nonsense! So okay, I’m a jerk. You already knew this before we even started dating. I’m sorry that I don’t like the idea of another man slobbering all over you in my presence, but no man likes to stand by and watch his girl get the once over by another man. He was practically undressing you with his eyes, Emmie.”

I sat down on the edge of my bed and glowered up at him. “He was not. He was just being polite and you have an over active imagination.”

“He was checking you out in front of me, and if he didn’t know then that you were unavailable, at least he does now.”

“You gave him a black eye!”

“Yeah, and I fucked up my hand, so we’re even.”

I don’t know what happened, but the sight of him all aggravated and out of sorts got to me. His hair was all sticking up from running his hands through it in frustration all day and he suddenly reminded me of a big wounded bear ... dressed in an Armani suit with a swollen right paw. Because of me.

“Does your hand really hurt that bad?”

He shook his head. “I’ll live.”

I reached for him. “Can I see it?”

He let me take his hand in mine and I took a better look at his swollen knuckles. “You’re lucky you didn’t break your hand. Would an ice pack help?”

“I’m fine. Really.”

I gently placed a kiss on each one of his knuckles and when I looked up at him, he had a funny expression on his face.

“Were you really jealous?”

He pouted. “No.”

“Are you sure?”

“What do you think? Isn’t that what this whole stupid thing is about? So now you know; I’m a jealous bastard, okay? So sue me.” He tried to pull his hand away but I held it tight. “Hey, that hurts.”

“Come here, you big jerk.” I pulled again and he sat down beside me. “Is there anything I can do to make you feel better?”

He gave a heavy sigh and looked like he was about to say something, then he just shook his head and started to laugh. “You’re gonna be the death of me; do you know that, Emily Carreras?”

I pushed him down on the bed and reached for the zipper at his waistband. “I know just what you need to make it feel all better.”

KIM

Hey, I may be a jealous oaf, but I’m no fool. Fade to black, mates.

KEVIN

Okay, I’ve been away a while. Totally forgotten what life is like in Vermont … connected with the Inn and everything that goes with that. I finally managed an escape around four and came home. Home sweet home. LizBeth and I had been in Maine for months and I almost forgot what it was like to drop onto my own damn sofa, kick off my boots and let out a groan. I looked at the mantle clock. She’d been home any minute. Did I feel like taking a shower? Fuck no. Maybe later. After a beer.

It wasn’t just the physical exhaustion of the day; it was all the shit I dealt with. Working on one project at a time is far more conducive to rational thought, but crossing the border from Maine to Vermont turned me into some kind of commodity. Why, oh fucking why can’t I learn to say no?

First thing in the morning, I pop in at the Inn to see John … what do I get? Queen Biebe in all her hyper glory. Don’t get me wrong, I love the woman, just can’t stand dealing with her, that’s all. John was off to town for some reason (escaping his crazy wife maybe?) and she had a list a mile long to discuss. Granted, she went easy on me, after all, the real work hadn’t really started yet so she had nothing to point at. I gotta get this addition finished as smoothly as possible or I just may have to have a talk with John. I hate asking that dude to get his wife off my back.

Then I figure, best to get my nose into the actual work so I headed out to talk with my foreman … what do I find? My head cement man sporting a black eye for ogling a pretty office girl. Took more than a few words to get Caruthers back in line, he was this close to walking off the site. Guess he thought Kim Barrett was some kinda pussy or something. Kinda funny, actually. But all in all, it’s my responsibility to keep the peace. Not like I could tell Barrett to keep his little girlfriend on a leash, she’s obviously Vermont grown and too friendly for her own good. I think things should smooth over well enough though.

Next came a talk with Natalie about the Aubrey estate up north. Damn, for a few moments that was going so well … then Jack goes and pulls the sailor card on her. I’m just glad I didn’t get the brunt of her disappointment and anger. Oh well, there’s always tomorrow for her to take it out on me.

Of course there is one bright spot, well actually two. Curry bought that Fuller mansion, the one I tried to get more than once. At least I’ll get to work on her, she’s one gorgeous Victorian, that’s for sure … but God knows, I’m handling way too many projects at once. Shouldn’t have agreed to help Curry, but this one is a labor of love.

Then, the other exciting prospect. Like building Hando and Collin’s garage, I took on something way out of my area of expertise. I kinda like that sometimes; stretches my limits and makes me feel a little more rounded … for a simple builder, ya know. I’m handling the construction of Titus Pullo’s winery. I’ll be working with experts from all over the world for this one and I’ve got a plan for a winery gift shop and tasting facility I hope he’s interested in. I did hear he’s taken on a partner, hope this won’t end up being a kink in the works. My schedule’s tight enough without messing with things and arranging negotiations.

In two weeks I head back to Maine to oversee the final details on the Aubrey house, after that, back here to push the Inn addition home and start on the winery. In between all that I’ll be poking around at Curry’s place.

LizBeth and I will spend about two weeks apart and that’s too much. We got real comfortable with being together so much in Maine. Fuck, with the schedule I’m committed to, I hope I get to see her at least a few times before next summer. And no, I’m not exaggerating.
 
LACHLAN

I wasn’t really all that put out about the coffee and I felt pretty guilty when Jessie stomped out of the house to head back into town to get it for me. When she came back afterwards she was still a bit sore, but I managed to sweeten her mood when I showed her the old cradle I found up in the attic earlier that morning. I was surprised that the Widow Fuller had left it behind and called her right away to ask if she wanted me to have it sent over. The old girl told me that she really had no use for it and suggested that we might go ahead and use it ourselves.

“I’ll clean it up and we can keep it beside the bed once the baby comes.” I rather liked the idea of having something so old fashioned, and Jessie agreed.

“It’s beautiful.” As she ran her hands over the carved hearts along the headboard her face lit up with a soft sort of glow that made my heart flutter. “Did you find anything else up there?”

“Just some old trunks full of papers and what looks like a couple of old brass beds that we might be able to salvage. We’ll probably find more old stuff as we go along, but the attic was pretty clean.” I ran my hand down along the curve of her back and I felt her shiver.

“I really am sorry about the coffee.” She looked up at me and her brown eyes pulled me in, as always.

“And I’m sorry I over reacted.” I leaned down and kissed her, smiling when I felt her hands slipping up beneath my tee shirt. Another near disaster averted.

Later that evening, I lay in bed unable to sleep. Jessie was curled up at my side having drifted off the moment her head hit the pillow and I was trying not to wake her by tossing and turning. My mind was flying with all the ideas and plans I had for this big old house. Now that Kevin was back in town it wouldn’t be long before we started the renovations and I was anxious to get started.

Sometime around two AM I finally started to drift off. A moment later I felt Jessie nudging my shoulder.

“Babe, did you hear that?”

“Hear what?” I asked, rolling over.

“I just heard someone walking up the stairs.”

My eyes shot open and I sat up, listening. I heard nothing.

Jessie was insistent. “I know what I heard. It was footsteps climbing up the stairs!”

I had personally locked all the doors myself before going to bed, but I got up to investigate, just in case. “Stay here.”

She got up to follow after me and even though I as reasonably certain that it was all her imagination, I didn’t want to take any chances. “I mean it. I’ll be right back.”

Stepping out into the hallway I flipped on the light and went through each of the downstairs rooms, turning on all the lights as I made my rounds. I then headed upstairs… I found nothing. When I came back to the bedroom, Jessie was sitting at the end of the bed, her eyes wide and frightened.

“Sweetheart, you just heard the house settling. Old homes do that. They make all kinds of funny noises as the wood expands and contracts along with the changes in the weather.”

I sat down beside her and pulled her close. She was actually shaking.

“Are you sure?”

“Of course I’m sure. You’re used to modern buildings made from steel and fiberglass.”

We settled back into bed and Jessie snuggled in tight beside me. “I could have sworn I heard footsteps.”