326565656mmhol3322652 by onechangeatthetime

ALSO BY MELANIE MORELAND/M MORELAND

Insta-Spark Collection written by M Moreland It Started with a Kiss Christmas Sugar An Instant Connection An Unexpected Gift Harvest of Love The Contract Series The Contract (The Contract #1) The Baby Clause (The Contract #2) The Amendment (The Contract #3) Vested Interest Series BAM - The Beginning (Prequel) Bentley (Vested Interest #1) Aiden (Vested Interest #2) Maddox (Vested Interest #3) Reid (Vested Interest #4) Van (Vested Interest #5) Halton (Vested Interest #6) Sandy (Vested Interest #7) Vested Interest/ABC Crossover A Merry Vested Wedding ABC Corp Series My Saving Grace (Vested Interest: ABC Corp #1)

Finding Ronan’s Heart (Vested Interest: ABC Corp #2) Loved By Liam (Vested Interest: ABC Corp #3) Age of Ava (Vested Interest: ABC Corp #4) Men of Hidden Justice The Boss Second-In-Command Mission Cove The Summer of Us Standalones Into the Storm Beneath the Scars Over the Fence My Image of You (Republishing Soon) Changing Roles Happily Ever After Collection Revved to the Maxx Heart Strings

Dear Reader, Thank you for selecting Harvest of Love to read. Be sure to sign up for my newsletter for up to date information on new releases, exclusive content and sales. You can ﬁnd the form here: https://bit.ly/MMorelandNewsletter Before you sign up, add melanie@melaniemoreland.com to your contacts to make sure the email comes right to your inbox! Always fun - never spam! My books are available in paperback and audiobook! You can see all my books available and upcoming preorders at my website. The Perfect Recipe For LOVE xoxo, Melanie

Edited by Lisa Hollett of Silently Correcting Your Grammar Cover design by Karen Hulseman, Feed Your Dreams Designs Cover Photography by Regina Wamba Cover content is for illustrative purposes only and any person depicted on the cover is a model. All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner. This book is a work of fiction. The characters, events, and places portrayed in this book are products of the author's imagination and are either fictitious or are used fictitiously. Any similarity to real persons, living or dead, is purely coincidental and not intended by the author. The author acknowledges the trademarked status and trademark owners of various products referenced in this work of fiction, which have been used without permission. The publication/use of these trademarks is not authorized, associated with, or sponsored by the trademark owners.

DEDICATION

For Matthew Your strength. My need. Part of our story, told with a twist. Love you forever.

CONTENTS

Chapter 1 Chapter 2 Chapter 3 Chapter 4 Chapter 5 Chapter 6 Chapter 7 Chapter 8 Chapter 9 Chapter 10 Chapter 11 Chapter 12 Chapter 13 Chapter 14 Chapter 15 Chapter 16 Chapter 17 Chapter 18 Chapter 19 Chapter 20 Chapter 21 Epilogue Afterword Next in the Insta-Spark Collection Acknowledgments About M Moreland

CHAPTER ONE

DANI

woke in the night, sitting upright, my breathing loud in the dark. I wiped a hand across my forehead, my skin damp and clammy. Reaching for the glass of water beside my bed, I knocked it over, cursing as it hit the ﬂoor, the needed liquid soaking into the rug instead of my throat. Grateful the glass hadn’t broken, I picked it up. I padded to the kitchen and poured another glass from the jug in the refrigerator, the chilled liquid soothing my parched throat. I rested the cold glass against my forehead, feeling my strumming heart begin to slow down. I sighed at what was becoming a nightly routine. Waking with a start, feeling panicked, but unable to ﬁgure out why. The sensation of something unsettled ate at me, yet I couldn’t pinpoint it. I poured some more water, grabbed a towel to soak up the dampness beside my bed, and headed to my room. I left the light on as I lay back, contemplating the ceiling. It was barely after three—far too early to go into the o ce, even though I knew I had enough work to keep me busy if I did. I also knew there was a good chance I wouldn’t fall asleep again. With a sigh, I closed my eyes and tried to relax. When that failed, I picked up a book, but I was unable to concentrate on

the words. Finally as dawn was breaking, my exhaustion pulled me under, and my eyelids shut of their own accord. I drifted and allowed sleep to claim me.

Midday, I blew out a long breath of frustration, the air lifting my hair o my forehead. I seemed to be going around in circles. The fractured sleep from the previous few nights had left me feeling o -kilter and tired. No amount of co ee seemed to jolt me out of the fog that had settled in my brain. I shook my head to try to clear it, the lights overhead humming as I reached across my desk and grabbed another ﬁle folder. As I skimmed the pages, I found the document I was looking for, reading it over to make sure I had remembered the data correctly. The words swam in front of my eyes, and I blinked to clear them, frowning when the action failed to work. Startled, I realized the room around me seemed to be vibrating. Lifting my hand to my neck, I was surprised to feel the skin damp. Leaning forward, I pressed the intercom button. “Yes, Ms. Rawlins?” “Lynn, can you get maintenance in here? I think my thermostat is broken and the air conditioning has stopped working. The heat is killing me.” “Right away.” “A cold water would be great as well.” I leaned back, taking in a deep breath, smiling in gratitude as Lynn appeared, handing me a glass of water. She was a couple of years younger than me, with light-brown hair and

dark eyes. She was smart and e well.

cient, and we got along

“Is the rest of the building hot as well?” She shook her head, frowning. “Your o It’s actually quite cool in here.”

ce doesn’t feel hot.

“Really?” I took a deep swallow, sighing in relief as the icy liquid hit my throat. I laughed lightly. “I must have had my first hot flash.” Lynn grinned and left, shutting the door behind her. I cleared my throat, picking up the file again, trying to concentrate. A few moments later, it was back. The room became hot, oppressive; the words in front of my eyes danced and moved, and a strange pressure built in my chest. My hands started shaking. I dropped the file folder, leaning back in my chair. My body began trembling, and like a slow tidal wave, I was engulfed in a feeling of panic so great, I could barely breathe. My lungs struggled for enough oxygen, sweat covering my skin, congealing around my hairline and neck, and my teeth began to chatter. I couldn’t move, speak, or reach out for help. Then, as quickly as it came on, I felt the sensation loosen and ease from my body. My tightened muscles relaxed, my breathing slowed, and finally, my body sagged in sheer relief.

With still-shaking hands, I reached for the water, sipping slowly. When I was able to, I stood and went into my private bathroom. The mirror reflected my image back—my normally pale skin ashen, my dark blue eyes wide and frightened, my blond hair damp against my forehead. Leaning forward, I splashed cool water on my skin, patting myself dry, and stared at my reflection. I looked exhausted. I sat back at my desk, wondering if I was coming down with something. My gaze drifted to the files that covered my desk. I couldn’t a ord to be sick right now—we were in the midst of another takeover, and I needed to get everything in order. I reached for the file again, only to feel the prickle of unease begin at the back of my neck. The walls around me felt as if they were closing in. My breathing picked up. Without even thinking, I stood, grabbing my purse, one thought on a constant loop in my head. I needed to get out of there. Rushing by Lynn’s desk, I called over my shoulder. “Cancel my meetings. I’ll be out the rest of the day.” Her shocked face as the elevator doors shut normally would have amused me, but right now, it only added to the swell of panic I felt building again. Reaching my car, I yanked open the door and slipped in, shutting my eyes and leaning my head back against the headrest. The underground garage was dim and deserted—all the owners of the empty vehicles busy in the building above me.

I inhaled deep, calming lungfuls of air, feeling myself relax. Once I was composed and steady, I started the car and pulled out of the spot. When I exited the dark garage and felt the warm sun ﬁll the interior of the car, I sighed in relief. I turned up the music, the thumping sounds of Shinedown echoing in the small space. I glanced left and right, and with no destination in mind, turned to the left, and started to drive.

Steel and concrete gave way to green. Cement roads and red lights turned into long, winding lanes of open spaces. Brake lights disappeared, and soon it was as if it was only me on the deserted roads. Late-summer sun bounced o the windshield, and I turned o the air conditioning and opened the windows to let the air—the cooler, fresh air of the country—inside. I inhaled deeply, feeling as if I could breathe for the first time in hours without restriction. I drove aimlessly for a while, finally pulling over to the side of the road and looking around. Miles of farmland stretched around me. The horizon was dotted with barns and houses. Fields and pastures were all I could see. I had no idea where I was, and for the first time, I wished I had bought a newer car with a nav system. I dug into my purse, cursing when I discovered I must have left my phone on my desk in my panicked flight to get out of the o ce, so I couldn’t use Google Maps the way I normally did. I hu ed out a sigh and pulled back onto the road. I would have to find a store or gas station and ask for directions. I drove a little longer, feeling relieved when I saw a long, low log building come up on the right side. I pulled in, happy to

see what looked like a small store with a restaurant attached. The sign, gently swaying in the late afternoon breeze, simply read “The Harvest Table.” A deep-rust–colored pickup truck was parked to one side, and there was one other car closer to the doors. Otherwise, the place looked deserted. The door opened and a woman came out, followed by a tall man who was carrying a box of produce. He was smiling and talking as he loaded the box into her trunk. He was dressed in jeans and a faded T-shirt that stretched across his broad shoulders, emphasizing his biceps. He wore a rust-colored apron that matched the color of the parked truck. It tied around his torso, and the same name as the sign was emblazoned across his chest. As he stood talking, he ran his hand through his hair, the goldenbrown color bright in the sun. It was short on the sides but longer on the top, spiked upward, adding even more inches to his height. He was lean, with long legs, towering over the woman he was talking to. His biceps ﬂexed and moved as he used his hands to demonstrate something, making them both laugh. He opened the driver’s side door, waiting until the woman slid in, then bent down and brushed a kiss across the woman’s cheek. He shut the door and stepped back, standing there until she pulled away, sending her o with a wave. He walked back to the store, pausing before he went in, looking in my direction. “Come on in,” he called. “We don’t bite.” Then he grinned— a wide, toothy smile that was devastatingly wicked. “Unless you want.” He disappeared inside. I sat staring for a minute, then grabbed my purse. I was hungry and hoping the restaurant

was open, or at the very least, maybe I could pick up some fruit to snack on. I entered the building, the wooden door closing slowly behind me. The store was cooler, the light subdued to protect the contents. Rows of beautiful produce met my gaze, the colors of the vegetables intense in the di used light. All around me were the scents of fresh vegetables and fruit. Bright red peppers stacked beside green zucchini and yellow beans were a feast for the eyes as well as the nose. I picked up a basket and wandered around, picking up vegetables and fruit and admiring the entire store. I paused at a set of double doors at the end of the store, glancing through the glass at the restaurant on the other side. Small, intimate, and homey—it held about twenty tables, all covered in ginghamchecked cloths. Wide windows and vivid prints on the exposed logs made it a lovely space. I didn’t see anyone inside, so I assumed they weren’t open. I turned back, stiﬂing a gasp when I realized the man I had seen outside was now standing a couple of feet away from me. Up close, he was…indescribable. Deep, soulful green eyes that glittered in the light were set under heavy eyebrows. Standing this near to him, I could see the ﬂecks of gold and brown around his pupils. His jaw was chiseled and hard, covered with a smattering of afternoon scru . A wide, beautiful smile completed the package. The only thing that saved him from being too perfect was the slight bump to his nose, but somehow the small imperfection only added to his attractiveness. He towered over me, at least a foot taller, his shoulders wider close up, his arms thick. He had extraordinarily long legs, encased in tight jeans. He was, without a doubt, the most handsome man I had ever seen. He was holding a basket of garlic, the pungent scent drifting in the air.

Then he spoke. His voice was like rich honey, deep and smooth. “Welcome to The Harvest Table. Finding everything you want?” “Um…” He tilted his head to the side, studying me. “Can I help you find something?” I swallowed and cleared my throat. “No, I think I’m good?” He grinned, his eyes crinkling at the corners in amusement. I realized my answer had come out more like a question, and I felt my face flush. I turned to the pile of peppers I’d been looking at, blindly picking one up. “Fresh this morning,” he o ered as he started arranging the garlic on a display beside me. “Oh.” “Picked them myself.” “Ah. They look…lovely.” “All organic. Everything we sell here is. All grown without pesticides and with the highest standards. You won’t find better-tasting produce anywhere.” I glanced at him, seeing the serious look on his face. He wasn’t bragging or selling me a line. He was simply stating a fact. I placed a couple of peppers in my basket and moved over to the cucumbers. I reached out for one when he spoke again. “Your hand is shaking.”

I froze and looked down. He was correct—my hand was trembling. He moved closer. “Are you all right?” “I probably should have had some lunch.” “Lunch? It’s past three. You haven’t eaten lunch yet?” “Oh, um…I forgot.” On cue, my stomach rumbled. Blushing again, I shook my head. “I didn’t have breakfast either.” I glanced at my watch. “I didn’t realize how late it was.” “I can get you something.” “What?” He stepped closer. “Come to the restaurant. I’ll get you something to eat.” “Is it open?” He shook his head. “Doesn’t matter.” He held out his hand. “Come with me.” I hesitated, then let him take my hand. His long ﬁngers closed around my palm, and I felt an instant warmth at his touch. He took the basket from me and pulled me gently down the aisle. “You can ﬁnish shopping after.” I allowed him to guide me through the double doors and lead me to a table in the corner. I looked around, feeling uneasy. “Are you sure you won’t get into trouble with your boss?” A crooked grin curled up his full lips. “No, I’m good.” “I don’t want to take you away from your work.”

“Honest, it’s ﬁne.” He pushed me into a chair. “Sit here. I’ll be right back. Don’t go anywhere, okay?” Where was I going to go? I didn’t even know where I was. “I won’t.” “Okay.” He turned to go and then came back, holding out his hand again. “I’m Noah, by the way.” “Danica Rawlins. Um…Dani.” He squeezed my hand. “It’s a pleasure, Dani. Stay here. I’m going to feed you.” I followed his retreating form. “I’m going to feed you.” Why did those simple words seem so personal and intense? And why did I like the sound of them so much?

CHAPTER TWO

DANI

oah returned a few minutes later with a basket of bread and a large glass of iced tea ﬁlled with slices of fruit. The bread looked delicious, and on the side was a dish of creamy-looking butter. “The bread is made here, and so is the honey butter.” “They have bees here?” I asked. “In the back pasture. We sell the honey in the store as well. Try it. I’ll be right back.” He paused. “You’re not allergic to anything are you? Nuts? Cheese?” “No.” “Great.” He disappeared, and I buttered a slice of the pillowy soft bread and bit into it. The delicate honey ﬂavor of the butter was incredible. Before I realized it, I had eaten two slices. Noah returned and set a plate on the table, pulling out the chair next to me and sitting down, a plate in front of him as

well. “I wasn’t sure what you liked, but this is on the menu tonight.” My plate was a work of art. A beautiful roasted beet salad was spread out on leafy greens, the golden, red, and purple beets glistening under a light balsamic dressing. Dotted with goat cheese and candied pecans, it was almost too pretty to eat. Almost. Noah pushed my plate toward me. “Tuck in,” he urged gently. Taking a bite, I shut my eyes as the ﬂavors burst on my tongue. “This is wonderful. Your chef is talented.” The tips of his ears turned red, and he grinned and shrugged, his mouth too full to answer. He swallowed and took a drink of his iced tea. I was fascinated watching his strong neck muscles work as he swallowed. He picked up a piece of the bread, buttering it liberally and tearing o a large chunk, chewing and swallowing before speaking. “So, Dani Rawlins, what brought you out into the middle of nowhere on a Wednesday afternoon?” “Oh, I, ah, I needed a break from the o

ce.”

“And you thought you’d visit The Harvest Table?” I shook my head, trying hard not to look as embarrassed as I felt. “I got lost. I sort of stumbled on to this place.” He smiled, his eyes warm. “We get a lot of those. Often though, they’re thrilled to have discovered the store.”

“It’s lovely,” I agreed. “I think I need to add some honey butter to my basket.” He pushed away his empty plate. “What do you do for a living? It must be fascinating if it makes you forget to eat.” “Consuming, more like it,” I murmured without thinking. He frowned. “Oh?” I sighed, patting my lips with my napkin. “I’m a VP at SB Corp. One of their many areas is business acquisitions. I do the number crunching.” His eyebrows shot up. “You’re pretty young to be a VP.” “Twenty-eight. The youngest one there.” “I’m impressed.” “It’s a job,” I replied, beginning to feel warm. I took a sip of the cold tea, hoping to stop the rising heat. “What sort of number crunching do you do?” “When there’s a business they want to buy, I ﬁnd proﬁt or loss. Recommend what to keep or restructure. Depending on the size of the business, what to sell.” I cleared my throat, setting down my fork, my appetite suddenly gone. “Huge responsibility.” “I’m not the only one. I mean, I’m part of a team, but lately, I’ve been especially, ah, busy.” In fact, it felt as if management had been giving me all the larger projects. My workload increased weekly. So did the number of hours I spent behind my desk. They compensated me with bonuses, but since all I ever did was work, the money sat in my account, unused.

“A much-needed afternoon o , then,” he observed. “Do you like your job?” Much-needed, but I knew I would pay for it tomorrow. Simply thinking of the o ce and returning, I felt my neck begin to prickle, and I had to shut my eyes and take in a deep breath. The air felt heavy, and I struggled to get oxygen in. The feel of Noah’s hand wrapping around the back of my neck startled me, and my eyes flew open. He was crouched beside me, looking concerned. “It’s okay, Dani. You don’t have to answer. I didn’t mean to upset you.” I sucked in some more air as his fingers pressed into the tense muscles of my shoulder. “Relax, Dani. You’re okay,” he crooned, his voice soft and compelling. He lifted my hand, pressing it to his chest, covering it with his long fingers. “Everything is fine. You’re safe and okay. Breathe with me. Slow and easy. Just breathe.” I matched my breathing to his—relaxed, deep inhales of air. The feel of his hand holding mine and his closeness helped ease my tension. His scent, heady sunshine, and fresh air swirled around me, and I sucked it in greedily, finding it warm and compelling. Calming. A couple minutes later, I opened my eyes, feeling more composed and embarrassed. “Sorry,” I whispered, unable to meet his gaze. “I’m sort of having a bad day.” I stared at our hands pressed together on his chest. My skin looked shockingly pale against the sun-kissed tan of his. I

tried to recall the last time I had sat out in the sun and couldn’t remember. “It’s ﬁne. We all have them.” Gently extracting his hand, he sat back down. Oddly, I missed his touch right away. He bent forward, resting his elbows on his thighs, studying me. His voice was concerned. “Did something happen?” “I’m in the middle of a deal—a big one—lots of pressure. I wasn’t feeling very well, and I had to get out of the o ce.” “From what I just saw, it was more than you not feeling well, Dani. You had a panic attack.” I nodded, knowing he was probably right. It made sense. I was healthy, otherwise. I would have to look up more on panic attacks. “So, you left the o

ce, and you took a drive?”

“Yes.” He smiled. “And got lost.” “Yes. I’m very bad with directions, and I left my phone at my desk.” “Dani?” I lifted my gaze. Noah was smiling at me, his expression gentle. “I’m glad you found your way here.” “Me too.” He pushed my plate back toward me. “Finish your lunch. Please.” I nodded and picked up my fork, thinking I’d probably do anything he asked as long as he smiled at me that way.

“So, you stock the shelves and look after customers?” He smirked a little. “I pick the vegetables, too.” “Right. Sorry.” He laughed and waved his hand. “I wear a lot of hats.” “You like it here?” “I love it.” “Have you been here long?” “The restaurant opened about a year ago. The produce store has been open for about two years.” He seemed so intelligent and capable. Capable of more than selling vegetables. “Is this your career?” He tilted his head, regarding me in silence. “There’s way more to life than money, Dani.” I ﬂushed. “I know that. I just mean…” “I know what you mean. Appearances aren’t everything.” “I don’t understand.” He lifted his glass, draining it, his eyes never leaving mine. The side door opened, and a tall man with the biggest arms I’d ever seen walked in, carrying a large basket. “Hey, Noah. I got more stu for tonight’s service. And the beans should be ready for Friday.” Noah stood, wiping his mouth. “Great, Gabe.”

Gabe grinned. “Late lunch?” Noah nodded. “Gabe, this is Dani. Dani—this is my brother.” “Hey, Dani. Nice to meet you.” “Hello.” “She hadn’t eaten. I thought I’d try out tonight’s special on her.” Noah took the basket and carried it into the kitchen. “Did you like it?” Gabe asked. “It’s wonderful. I told Noah to compliment the chef.” Gabe’s smile was wide, his eyes dancing. They were darker than Noah’s bright-green color. So was his hair. He was older by a few years, I judged. “I’m sure he appreciated it.” I smiled back, unsure what that meant. Gabe raised his hand. “Nice to meet you. I’m o , Noah!” he called. Noah reappeared. “See you later.” I wiped my mouth and stood. “I should get going.” “Already?” “I need to finish shopping, and then I’d better head back.” I hesitated. “Could you tell me how to get back to Toronto?” His eyes twinkled in the dim light. “I’ll write it down for you. As long as you get the first few turns right, you’ll be fine. Lots of signs after that.” “Okay, great.” I followed him back into the store and picked up my basket, feeling better. My head was clearer, and I no longer felt

shaky. I must have been hungrier than I thought. I ignored the little voice in my head that whispered Noah’s presence had a lot to do with me feeling better. I didn’t know the man—how could he possibly have anything to do with it? I added some more items, including some of the goat cheese and honey butter from the cooler. I carried the basket to the cash register, where Noah was waiting for me. I’d felt his eyes watching me the whole time I shopped. More than once, I glanced up and our gazes met, the smallest smile curling his lips as he saw me inhaling the scent of the fresh cilantro and gently squeezing the apples for the ﬁrmest ones. He rang up my purchases, packing them into a box. “Can you add my lunch to the same bill?” “Lunch was on me, Dani.” “You can’t do that!” “I can, and it’s done.” I grasped his hand. “Noah, I don’t want you to get into any trouble. Please let me pay for my lunch.” Once again, I was treated to that devastatingly wicked grin. “I promise you, Dani. I won’t get into any trouble.” He handed me my receipt. “I’ll carry this to your car.” He lifted the box, drawing my eyes to his biceps. They were muscular and ﬁrm-looking—not as large as his brother’s but toned and cut. I couldn’t help the thought I preferred them from popping into my head. I wondered how it would feel if he wrapped them around me. I had to drop my gaze. He came behind me, smiling as I held the door open. His hair once again caught the sun, glints of blond and red woven

into the sandy brown, especially at the ends. He obviously spent a great deal of time outdoors. As he settled my box into the trunk, I wondered if I, too, would get a kiss on my cheek. I shook my head at the thought. He handed me a card with The Harvest Table logo on it. “I wrote my phone number and the directions on the back.” He tapped the words. “If you read them backward, you could find your way back here.” He paused. “If you wanted to.” I glanced at the written instructions gratefully. I was only about forty-five minutes out of town, but I had driven much farther earlier. With the various turns o the highway, it would be hard to find this place without GPS. The thought that I would like to find my way back flitted through my head. He stepped forward, close enough I could feel the heat coming from his body, smell his unique, calming scent. “I’d like it if you did.” I blinked up at him. “Thank you, Noah. For lunch…for being kind. Everything.” He bent down and grazed his lips across my cheek, stopping close to my ear. His warm breath drifted over my skin. “The pleasure, Dani, was all mine.” “So you kiss all your customers?” I had to ask. He grinned. “Mrs. Pellier is one of my mom’s best friends. I have to kiss her. Kissing you was all for me, Dani.” He straightened up and reached around me, pulling open my door. “Drive safely.” I managed to climb into the car without falling on my face. That was a far di erent kiss than the other woman got—it

was far more intimate than the quick peck I’d witnessed earlier. I liked it. He tapped on the window, crouching down beside me. “There’s a lot more to life than business and money, Dani. Remember that.” He swept his arm toward the building we had just left. “Ask me one day.” Then he walked away. I felt the warmth of his lips all the way back to the city.

CHAPTER THREE

DANI

he o ce was deserted Saturday morning as I worked away at my desk. With the deadline looming, and my unexpected afternoon o , I had to work today to catch up— although working on the weekend was hardly new. I had worked late Thursday and Friday nights as well. I ran a hand over my head, peering at the numbers to make sure I had everything in order. I reached over and picked up the apple sitting on my desk, rolling it in my hand. It was my last one. I had basically eaten everything I had bought at The Harvest Table—I had a constant craving for the honey butter and goat cheese that I had picked up as well as the apples and vegetables. I bit into the ﬂesh, enjoying the crisp texture of the sweet fruit. The aroma wafted up to my nose, and I inhaled the fragrance deeply. The memory of Noah’s warm scent drifted through my head, and I could see his handsome face, his warm smile, and hear his deep, rich voice. I thought of how gentle he had been with me—the way he held my hand to his chest to help me calm down. I’d had a couple more attacks since returning to the o ce, although they had been milder. I looked up panic attacks on the web and had to admit my symptoms were very similar in many cases, although I wasn’t sure why they were

happening. I’d been involved in other deals since joining the firm, been under pressure many times. Maybe it was the new title of VP that was adding another layer to the mix. I didn’t know, but I hoped they would stop. Maybe I would take a week o once this project was complete. I only had to make it through another couple of weeks. I finished my apple and turned back to the files. The next time I looked up, I realized it was well past one. I saved the file I’d been working on and stood up to stretch my shoulders and legs. One set of numbers simply wasn’t working. I didn’t know if I had the wrong information or if my logic was flawed, but something was wrong, and I had to find it. This report was due on Monday, and my boss didn’t allow tardiness. It hit me like a freight train. Panic swelled, my chest becoming tight with anxiety. My legs started to shake, and ripples of fear ran down my spine. Clutching the edge of the desk, I gasped for air as the room around me pulsated. I stumbled back into my chair, shutting my eyes and trying desperately to calm myself. Unbidden, Noah’s voice filled my head. “Breathe with me, Dani.” I could feel his hand around mine and the warmth of his chest under my fingers. Slowly, I fought against the panic, and my breathing slowed. I slumped down as the tension eased and I was able to breathe normally again. When I opened my eyes, the first thing I saw was my phone. Reaching over, I grabbed it and slipped the card Noah had given me out of the case where I had tucked it. “Read it backward, and you can find your way here again,” he had told me. I knew right then, I needed to see him.

With shaking hands, I took my purse and phone and, once again, escaped my o ce.

I pulled up in front of The Harvest Table, after getting lost again—even with Noah’s directions. I was terrible with maps and ﬁnding places. The parking lot was far busier than the last time I was here. There were people and sta members bustling around. I parked near the edge of the lot and wondered if this was a good idea. Maybe Noah would be too busy. He probably didn’t need some strange woman he’d been nice to once showing up and disrupting his day again. He might get in trouble with the owners if I pulled him away from work. The door opened, and I saw his brother Gabe come out, carrying two large boxes. He carried them to the car close to me and placed them in the trunk as he chatted with the customer. I hesitated, wondering if I should ask Gabe if Noah was busy. Then a thought occurred to me—maybe he wasn’t even working today. My hands tightened on my steering wheel as another wave of panic tore through me. I needed him to be here. Why it was so important, I had no idea, but I needed it—I needed him. I opened my eyes and drew in a deep breath. I would go in and see if he was there. My door opened and, startled, I snapped up my head, meeting Noah’s warm, concerned gaze. He reached out his hand, and without a thought, I placed mine in it and let him pull me from the car. “Hi,” he murmured. “Gabe told me you were out here.”

“Hi,” I whispered back, calm spreading through me, leeching out the tension in my shoulders. “You found your way back.” I nodded, unable to speak. He reached up, tucking a loose piece of hair behind my ear. He pulled gently at the long strand, wrapping it around his ﬁnger and rubbing it with his thumb. “I was hoping you would.” The moment felt intimate and private. It seemed as if the entire world had disappeared around us. “I needed to see you,” I confessed. He stepped closer. “Are you okay, Dani?” The words slipped out before I could stop them. “I am now.” “What do you need?” he asked. “Tell me.” I didn’t know how to tell him what I needed. I didn’t know what I needed. Why I had this burning urge to see him—be close to him. I had never experienced anything like it before today. I blurted out the ﬁrst thing that came to mind. “I’m out of apples.” He snickered. “I can help with that.” “And cheese.” “You came to the right place.” Bravely, I inched closer, inhaling his warm scent. “I wanted to see you. I was…I was hoping you’d be here.” “I’m always here.” He looked down at our clasped hands. “You’re shaking again.” He frowned. “Did you have another

attack?” “A few,” I whispered. I didn’t want to tell him how the one today frightened me. Since I’d been alone, the feeling of not being able to breathe had been terrifying. “Did you eat today?” “I ate an apple.” “Then I’m glad you’re here. I was about to have lunch. You’re going to join me. And not a word about me getting into trouble. I’m on a break.” He grinned—his wonderful, wicked smile. “Then we’ll get you some more apples.” “And cheese.” He smirked. “And cheese.” He wrapped his arm around me, tucking me into his side. I ﬁt under his arm like I was meant to be there. My entire body relaxed under his touch, and I laid my head against his shoulder. He nuzzled my hair, his lips ghosting over my forehead. “Come on, my girl. I need to look after you.” His girl. I liked how that sounded. I relaxed even more.

He led me around the back, escorting me to a table on a large deck. I sat down in the chair he indicated, and he shook his ﬁnger at me, telling me not to go anywhere again. I had to smile at his silliness. A few other tables were taken across

the deck from me. They were relaxing with co ee, conversing quietly. The view of the open ﬁelds was breathtaking. The light breeze on my face felt so good, and I reached up, pulling my hair out of the ponytail and letting it fall down past my shoulders. The air lifted it, the strands swirling in the breeze. It was so peaceful here. Noah sat down, sliding a large, pink-colored drink in front of me. The glass was icy with condensation, and pieces of strawberries and lemons ﬂoated with mint in the glass. He smiled, leaned over, and tucked my hair behind my ear, his hand lingering on my lobe, caressing it gently. “Good,” he breathed. “You’re not as pale as when you arrived.” I smiled at his observation and picked up my glass. “Delicious.” “Strawberry lemonade. One of Gabe’s specialties. He made the iced tea you had last time as well.” “Do any other members of your family work here?” He grinned. “We’re a close group.” He stood. “I’ll go get lunch.” I sipped my lemonade, enjoying the view. Noah came back carrying two plates. He stopped at a couple of tables, chatting with people, his smile wide and his laughter ringing out in the air. He sat back down, sliding my plate in front of me. “I hope you eat chicken.”

I nodded, looking at the huge sandwich in front of me. “I don’t think I can eat that much chicken.” “Eat what you can.” “Today’s special?” “One of them.” I bit down and groaned softly at the ﬂavors. The focaccia bread was light, the taste of the rich olive oil and rosemary bursting in my mouth. The chicken was sliced thin and piled high, with a creamy goat cheese spread and sliced tomatoes so fresh, the juice ran down my chin. Noah chuckled, leaning forward and brushing his thumb under my mouth. He winked as he slipped it into his mouth, licking it clean. “So sweet,” he murmured, his eyes darkening. I looked down at my plate, feeling a pleasant warmth rush through my body at his actions. Was he talking about the tomatoes? “No.” His voice was low. “Not the tomatoes.” I looked up, startled, not realizing I’d said that out loud. “You’re the sweet one, Dani.” He pushed my plate closer. “Eat.” I picked up my sandwich, not sure how he expected me to eat after that. But since he asked me to, I did. We didn’t talk much as we ate. Noah had a healthy appetite. He polished o his sandwich, half of mine, and then wandered back to the kitchen, returning with a bowl of fruit

he set between us. He didn’t let me eat from it, though, instead picking up pieces and holding them to my lips, his wicked grin wide. “Open up.” His fingers lingered on my lips after every morsel. I had to struggle not to nibble on the end of his finger. I did run my tongue over the callused tip once and watched as his eyes fluttered shut. Something about this man made me feel bold. He made me want something—I just wasn’t sure what. Noah pulled the last strawberry from the dish and held it against my mouth. “Bite, Dani.” I bit down, the sweet-tart taste rich. With a quirk of his eyebrow, he leaned back and popped the rest of the berry into his mouth, chewing slowly. “Delicious.” The way he said it, I knew he wasn’t referring to the fruit this time. A young woman appeared at his elbow, smiling at him. She was small, with long dark hair caught up in a ponytail. “I want to do some spicy beans again with dinner service, Noah. They were a huge hit last night.” “So, you’re telling me you need some picked.” “If you’re finished lazing around.” I stood, worried. “I’m sorry—I didn’t mean to keep Noah from working. He was being kind and keeping me company. I’ll leave now. Please…” The woman looked at me, then grinned widely. The grin was strangely familiar, as were her green eyes. She laid a hand on my arm. “I was teasing him, Dani. It’s rare we can get our

Noah to take a break.” She pushed me back down into my chair. “I’m Callie, Noah’s sister. It’s so nice to meet you.” I blinked at her. His sister? How did she know my name? “Hello,” I murmured. She patted my arm and slapped Noah’s shoulder. “She’s cute. Get me my beans. Oh, and some small potatoes.” I watched her walk away. Noah smiled at my confusion. “Relax, Dani. She was just teasing. I told you we were a close group.” He paused. “She’s right, I rarely take a break, but I enjoyed having lunch with you.” I felt disappointment ﬂow through me. “You have to go.” “You could come with me.” He regarded my outﬁt with a frown. “Although I’m not sure you’re dressed for bean picking.” I looked down at my dress slacks and blouse. I didn’t want to leave him yet. “I have some workout clothes in my trunk.” His smile was bright. He stood, holding out his hand. “Great.”

CHAPTER FOUR

DANI

oah showed me the washroom, and I quickly changed into some sweats and a shirt I had and slipped on my sneakers. I left my hair down since Noah seemed to like it that way. He nodded in approval, then surprised me by leading me to an electric golf cart, explaining they used those to get around the farm quicker, plus the fact that it was better for the environment. The farm seemed endless, various crops growing everywhere, greenhouses and corrals in the distance. He drove down a few dirt roads, the turns confusing me, then pulled over to the side. “Here we are.” Climbing out of the golf cart, he pointed to a long row. “Those are the beans she wants.” He handed me a basket. “You sure you want to do this? You could just sit and relax.” “No, I want to help,” I insisted. I felt a thrill of happiness run through me as he took my hand, and we walked over to the beans. He patiently showed me which ones to pick and how to do it, and I knelt in the warm dirt, picking my way through the bushy, staked-up plants. Noah was on the other side, and on occasion, our ﬁngers would brush up against each other, making me smile. If I lifted my head from my task, our eyes would meet, my heartbeat picking up at the intense way he was looking at me.

When he said we had enough, we made our way over to the potatoes. “We don’t need many,” he told me. “You sit there, and I’ll get them.” He used his hands, his long ﬁngers sinking into the dirt as he pulled them out, handing them to me. I brushed o the extra dirt, adding them to the second basket. I raised my face to the sun, enjoying the warmth. It was so quiet, the sounds around us of the breeze and buzzing of insects the only things I could really hear. “It’s so peaceful here.” “It is. It’s good for the soul.” I watched him for a moment. “You only pull enough for one meal?” He nodded. “Usually for the day—but on occasion, we add things as the day goes along. Everything is fresh every day. The menu is decided on by what is ready and we want to use.” “All the food is from here?” He nodded. “We grow all the vegetables and some fruit. We raise the chickens, cows, pigs, and goats, so we have the eggs and milk as well. We have a second farm close to Niagara. We get most of our fruit from there, and we have a small winery as well.” “Family-run?” He sat back and wiped his forehead, leaving a small streak of dirt on his skin. “Yes.” “All family?”

He smiled. “Yes.” “Noah?” His smile grew wider. “Yes, Dani?” “You’re not a stock boy, are you?” He shook his head. “No. I’m—I’m a little more than that.” “Will you tell me?” He pulled some more potatoes and handed them to me. I brushed o the dirt as he grabbed a ﬂask of water and sat beside me on the rich soil, drinking deeply. He o ered me the container, and I took a sip, liking the fact that his lips had just been on the same spot. “My family runs the farm. My dad’s been a farmer all his life. Besides running my dad, my mom bakes all the bread and helps at the restaurant.” “Running your dad?” I chuckled. “Trust me, all us Edwards men need direction. He would be lost without her.” “I see.” He continued. “My sister, Callie, does most of the cooking and overseeing. Her husband John handles all the livestock with my brother Gabe.” “Who also makes the beverages.” He nodded, taking another drink. “Gabe loves mixing up drinks—both regular and alcoholic. Wait until you taste some of his cocktails.” I blinked at him, wondering if it was a given that I would.

He kept talking. “Gabe’s wife, Ella, makes the cheeses we use, and she and my mom do all the preserves, pickles, and jams we sell at the store.” “Wow—it is a family a air.” “It is. Our cousins run the fruit farm and winery. We sell our produce through them as well as here, and we sell their fruit. Our wine comes from them. Anything we can’t produce, we get through other certified organic farms—not that there is much. We’re pretty self-su cient.” “Farm-to-table.” “Yes.” “And what do you do, Noah?” He grinned. “I pick vegetables and help out pretty ladies in distress.” I shook my head. He sighed. “I do a lot of things, Dani. I work in the store, the restaurant, the fields…like I said before, I wear many hats.” He turned to me, his eyes serious. “You thought I was just a stock boy.” “You sort of let me think that.” He smiled. “It was rather endearing, to be honest. The way you kept getting worried about me being in trouble.” He lifted his hand, wrapping a long strand of my hair around his finger and tugging it. “I kinda liked that.” His voice lowered and he shifted closer. “I liked the fact that you came back, even if you thought I was just a stock boy.” “I couldn’t stay away, Noah. I think—” I swallowed, my voice sounding husky even to my ears “—I think you’re too

special to be ‘just’ anything.” He slipped his hand around my neck, his long fingers warm on my skin. “Dani,” he whispered. He ducked his head, his breath blowing over my face. He was so close, his hair was a brilliant kaleidoscope of color around his face, dancing in the breeze. He hesitated, then pressed closer, and my eyes drifted shut as I felt the heat of him against me. His lips touched mine. Brushed gently, teasing me with his tenderness. Once. Twice. Then again. I whimpered, burying my hand into his soft hair, tugging him nearer. His grip tightened, his other hand reaching over, grabbing my hip and pulling me o the ground and onto his lap, his mouth becoming insistent. He wrapped his arm around my waist, pulling me tight to his chest as his tongue slid along mine—commanding, possessive, exploring. He plunged his hand into my hair, fisting it tightly as he kissed me dizzy. His mouth was addictive. He tasted of strawberries and mint. I could feel the strength in his arms as he held me, but his hands were gentle, never too much or too tight. His touch made me crazy. I couldn’t get close enough to him. I gripped the short hair at his nape, ran my hands along the breadth of his back, feeling the muscles flex and bunch under my touch. His taste was addictive, his embrace comforting and strong. I never wanted it to end. Seconds later, I was underneath him, sinking into the hot earth. His chest pressed against me, the weight heavy and welcome. His kisses were relentless—hot and powerful. He reached down, hitching my leg around his waist, his growing erection hard against my hip. He moved, settling between

my legs, pressing against my center. I tightened my legs, moaning his name. I was overloaded with sensation. His mouth, his touch, his taste were all I could feel, all I wanted to feel. I was on fire with need for him. He slipped his hand under my shirt, spreading his fingers wide on my bare skin. I groaned as he ran his mouth down my neck, his tongue swirling on my hot skin, and his teeth nipping gently. His voice was a low hum in my ear. “Fuck, Dani, I want you.” “Noah…” I whimpered. An amused voice made us both jump. “Jesus, Noah. Are you kissing her or trying to plant her in the field? I know she’s small, but I don’t think she’d make a good seedling.” Noah stilled, his head dropping heavily onto my shoulder. “Fuck me,” he muttered. “I was hoping to,” I breathed. He started to chuckle. Then he laughed and lifted his head, his eyes filled with amusement. Tenderly, he nuzzled my forehead. He glanced over his shoulder, pushing his erection back into my heat. “John, you have great timing.” “Callie wants her beans and wanted me to remind you that she needs you tonight. We’re expecting a full house.” “We have radios.” “Which work best if they’re turned on and not lying in the dirt by your feet.”

Noah sighed into my neck. “Good point. I’ll be there soon.” John bent down and grabbed the baskets. “I’m going to assume your seedling is Dani. She’s cute, Noah, but she’s not going to sprout—no matter how hard you push her into the dirt.” He winked at me. “Nice to meet you.” “You too,” I murmured, embarrassed. I could hear his laughter all the way to the road. The sound of a golf cart faded, taking John’s amused laughter with it. “You need to put a bell on your family members. They keep appearing.” “I didn’t hear the golf cart,” Noah whispered. “Sorry.” “I didn’t either,” I admitted. “I was rather distracted.” He brushed my hair back o distracted?”

my face. “Oh yeah? Good

I rolled my eyes. “Yes, Mr. Kissexpert. Very good.” “Kissexpert?” “You do it very well.” “I think it has a lot to do with who I’m kissing.” He brushed his mouth over mine. “I want to kiss you some more.” “You have to go.” “I can take ﬁve more minutes. Not that ﬁve minutes will satisfy me.” “Ten?” “I like that better.” “Then stop talking and start kissing.”

His lips were on mine instantly. Hard, possessive, and wanting. He molded his body back to mine, driving all thought from my head but him. I never wanted to let him go. And with the way he was clutching me, I was pretty sure he felt the same way.

CHAPTER FIVE

DANI

he static of the radio and Callie’s impatient voice broke the stillness of the moment. We had made it as far as the golf cart, but Noah had me pressed against the back, his mouth working mine again, his hands buried in my hair. “Noah. We have a problem.” He drew back, his impatient sigh making me smile. He rolled his eyes as he grabbed the radio. “Right now, my only problem is her,” he grumbled before he spoke into the radio. I covered my mouth as I giggled. “What, Callie? I’m on my way.” “Mrs. Prudhomme called. She isn’t bringing any dessert for tonight.” Noah frowned. “Why?” he snapped into the mouthpiece. “She said she was done. E ective immediately.” “She said she’d give us until the end of the season.” “Well, she changed her mind. Something about your attitude.”

He snorted. “Great.” He ran a hand through his hair in vexation, making the strands stick even higher up. “Fruit and cream for dessert, then.” “Okay. I’ll get Ella to bring extra cream.” “Okay.” He shoved the radio back into his belt clip, muttering under his breath. “Why do you use a radio?” “Cell reception is bad out in the fields—too many dead spots. This way, we can get hold of each other any time.” That made sense. I lost my cell signal a lot on the country roads as well. I grinned up at him. “Your, ah, attitude?” He shook his head, not at all ashamed or worried. “We’re certified organic, Dani. She was using products other than ours in the desserts she was making to cut corners. Bags of apples she’d get on sale at the grocery store. Mass-produced, not certified organic. I can’t serve that to customers. She broke the contract and, by doing so, could threaten our status.” “How did you find out?” “I noticed she hadn’t come in for apples or peaches. I checked, and she’d delivered the same number of desserts. I wondered if she’d bought the fruit elsewhere, so I decided to go see her. I brought her the usual order. When I walked into her kitchen, I saw the bags of apples and peaches. She argued they were local and just fine.” He shrugged. “I guess I was rather fervent as I explained why they were not ‘just fine.’”

“Ah.” I could only imagine his impassioned speech. If he was half as good at reprimand speeches as he was about kissing, it would have been very heated. “In the end, she agreed to use the right products and ﬁnish o the season. It’s only a few more weeks.” He shook his head. “I guess I went a little to town on my speech.” “What did she make?” “Pies, crisps…simple things.” “Nobody bakes here?” “No. That’s the one thing we’re missing. None of us bake— Ella and Mom both tried, but it’s not their thing. Believe me, they’ve tried. My mom’s pie crust is like cement. She even burns cookies. They follow the recipes, but nothing is ever more than passable—certainly not good enough for the restaurant. It’s a mystery as to why.” I shrugged. “I love to bake, but I can’t make bread—it never comes out right. And my meals are pretty simple. I’m not great in the kitchen unless it involves ﬂour and sugar.” He chuckled. “Well, there you go. Anyway, Callie and I don’t have time between the restaurant and the store. It was the one area I hired out to a local woman.” “I could help,” I blurted out. “What?” “I make a great apple-cranberry crisp. And a wicked peachbourbon cobbler.” “You do?”

“Like I said, I love to bake. It’s how I relax.” I often took things into the o ce, and they disappeared fast. The tension left his shoulders, and his expression softened. “You’d do that for me?” “Yes.” He glanced at his watch. “Could you get them ready to go in the oven in about ninety minutes? Is that enough time? Do you know the recipes?” “Yes. They’re both simple as long as you have what I need.” “What all do you need?” I listed o

the ingredients, Noah nodding the entire time.

“Are you sure?” he asked quietly. “You want to do this?” I nodded. “I-I’m good at it, Noah. Honest, I am.” “I believe you.” He grabbed the radio and called Callie, explaining what he needed. “Have Gabe bring it to the house. Dani can mix what she needs up there, and we’ll come get it and bake it when she’s done.” He turned back to me and smiled. He leaned down and kissed me, his mouth warm against mine. “Thank you.” “I’m glad I could help.” “I’ll take you to my place. Callie will get the sta peeling the apples to save you time. You can clean up and start cooking.” “Clean up?” He ran a hand through his hair, his stare intense. “Your hair is full of dirt, Dani, and I’m pretty sure I messed up your

shirt too. I guess I was trying to plant you earlier—make myself a little crop of Danis so I’d never run out.” He winked. “I thought maybe you’d like a shower. I can loan you a fresh shirt.” My cheeks grew hot at the thought of him pressing me into the earth—the way his body felt on mine. How our mouths moved together. “Okay.”

Noah steered the golf cart up a short driveway and parked in front of a log cabin, set in an expansive clearing. Two stories high with a wide, open porch, it looked as though it belonged there. Noah led me inside, smiling as he gave me a quick tour. The front was all open, with an eat-in kitchen on one side and a large living area on the other, a huge fireplace flanking one wall. Down the hall were two bedrooms and a shared bath. He tugged me upstairs, indicating the doors on the left. “Two more bedrooms.” Then he led me to a set of double doors on the right. He looked shy as he opened them. “This is, ah, my room.” My eyes widened as I took it in. A huge bed made of driftwood and branches dominated the room. Exposed logs and deep colors made it warm and welcoming. There was another fireplace and a large chair o to one side, a table tucked beside it, piled high with books. Double doors led to a balcony that overlooked the lush farmland. I could see other roofs in the distance, and Noah pointed out the houses belonging to his parents and siblings. “Close enough to visit, but far enough away for privacy,” he explained. “Mine is farther away than the rest of them. I like my space.” “It’s amazing.”

“I think so.” Stepping back inside, Noah indicated the far wall. “The bathroom and closet are there. Help yourself, and I’ll go make sure Gabe has brought everything you need.” I slipped out of my clothes, brushing o my pants. I could re-wear those, but Noah was right. My shirt was a mess, and my hair could probably sustain a few plants with the amount of earth ground into it. I hopped into his luxurious shower and quickly washed o the dirt, admiring the enclosed space. The walls were all rock, smooth and glistening, and the floor a flat gray tile under my feet. It was large, with two shower heads, and the water felt great on my shoulders and neck. I used his shampoo, grinning as I stepped out of the shower. I smelled like him now. I dried o and quickly pulled my hair back into a ponytail so it would stay out of my face while I baked. His shirts were exactly where he told me, and I pulled out a navy T-shirt, slipping it on. It was loose and hung low, but it was clean. I padded downstairs to find Noah unloading the last of the items on the counter. I checked and assured him I had everything I needed. He smiled, chucking me under the chin playfully. “I like you in my shirt.” I laughed. “It’s a bit long, but it’s clean.” He winked. “That happens when you’re short.” I rolled my eyes, accepting the apron he handed me. It was the same as the one he’d been wearing the first day I met him, and he grinned widely when I finished tying it up. He kissed me warmly and told me he’d be back soon, or if he was busy, he’d send Gabe or Ella.

I nodded, already reaching for the peeled apples when his arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me against his chest. “I love seeing you in my kitchen, Dani.” He kissed the side of my neck. “And with my apron on.” He traced a line up to my ear with his tongue. “I’d like to see you with just the apron on one day.” I shivered, and he laughed low in his throat, his chest rumbling against my back. He dropped another kiss on my cheek and walked backward all the way to the door, his gaze never leaving me. “I want to see that soon.” He grinned. “Very soon.” Then he was gone.

A tall, leggy redheaded woman walked in the door a little over an hour later. With her hair hanging down her back and tight jeans on, she was stunning. But her smile was wide and friendly, and she held out her hand. “You must be Sprout…I mean, Dani. I’m Ella, Gabe’s wife.” Sprout? I shook her hand, and she chuckled. “John loves to tell stories. It’s rare we ever have something to tease Noah about these days.” She shrugged. “Sorry.” I had to laugh. “I somehow don’t think you are.” “Not really.” Then she inhaled deeply. “Something smells wonderful.”

“I put the crumble in to start cooking since it takes the longest. The cobbler can go in as soon as it gets to the restaurant. The caramel sauce is almost done.” “Great. I’ll take them over—I told Callie to make sure the oven was on so they can finish cooking there.” “Okay. I’ll clean up and…” I trailed o . “Could you give me directions how to walk back to my car? I know Noah is busy, so I don’t want to disturb him.” She looked at me as if I were crazy. “Dani, I’m to bring you to the restaurant when you’re ready, and you can join us after for supper. The five of us always eat together once service is over for the week. Noah would love to have you join us. We all would.” She smiled, her voice kind. “It’ll be nice for him to have someone there.” I didn’t want to sit here for the next few hours. “Can I help serve dessert? I like to make it a certain way. If, um…that’s okay.” She tilted her head to the side, studying me in silence for a moment. Then she nodded. “That would be great. More than great.” She slipped her arm around my shoulders and gave me a brief hug. “I think you’re going to fit in well around here. I know Noah thinks so as well.” I turned back to the caramel sauce, her words making me smile.

CHAPTER SIX

DANI

lla insisted on helping me clean up while the crisp kept cooking. She was chatty and friendly. She told me about her two children, both in their teens. “They adore Noah. He’s their favorite uncle.” She winked. “But don’t tell John. He thinks it’s him.” I chuckled. “Okay.” “Callie has one son. He’s eight.” Her smile made her eyes crinkle. “We call him mini-John. He worships his dad.” “Where are they?” I asked. “With Mom and Pops. Saturday night is usually movie fest night for them. Popcorn and pizza prevail.” “That’s wonderful. Do they like being on the farm?” “They love it. They all help out. I’m sure you’ll meet them all soon enough.” I wasn’t sure how to reply to that statement. Between us, we had the kitchen tidy in no time and left for the restaurant. I was already looking forward to seeing Noah again.

When we arrived, he came outside the back door with Gabe. They picked up the large pans to take them inside, the huge oven mitts they wore with funny faces on them making me smile. I followed them inside, marveling at the bustling kitchen and the fragrant aromas. Noah grinned and dropped a fast kiss on my cheek, murmuring his thanks, then returned to his busy station. He obviously did more than simply help out here. I had the feeling he played down a lot of the things he handled. I finished the cobbler batter and poured the cooked peaches that smelled heavenly with the bourbon-brown sugar mixture, over the top. I added a dusting of cinnamon to finish it o . The large convection oven was hot and ready, and I slid in the heavy pans, shutting the door. “The apple crisp only needs about twenty more minutes. The cobbler about forty.” Callie kissed my cheek. “That’s perfect. You’re a lifesaver. Ella says you want to help serve it?” I nodded. “I like to make it pretty, if that’s okay.” She clapped her hands. “Perfect. You can set up over there.” She pointed to the only empty spot in the kitchen. A large mixer and other items were waiting for me. “The whipping cream is in the fridge for you, and we got you some more cranberries Noah said you needed.” “That’s great. I’ll get busy.” “Awesome.” She squeezed my arm. “We appreciate this more than you know.” I grabbed the cream and began. The mixer made short work of the whipped cream, and I filled a piping bag and put it in the fridge to stay cold, along with the rest of the cream. The

cranberries bubbled and burst in the hot pan, forming a thick syrup. I tasted the sauce, adding a little more butter and ice wine, finally satisfied. The caramel sauce stayed warm over the pot of warm water, and I added a touch of cream to make it smooth and delicious. Every time I glanced up, I met Noah’s hypnotic eyes. His gaze was filled with so much warmth, I felt it across the room. I loved watching him and Callie cook—both of them seamless, working as a team. It was amazing to observe them command the kitchen. Checking the crisp, I was pleased to see it was ready, and I slid it onto the heavy butcher block to let it cool a little. The cobbler wasn’t too far behind. Callie came over a short while later. “I need two apple crisps.” “Okay.” Carefully, I drizzled the plates with both the caramel and cranberry sauces, crisscrossing them, then cut slices of the crisp, nestling them on the pattern. I added some more caramel on the top and crowned it with the whipped cream. I sprinkled the diced cranberries over the plate and smiled. “Those look amazing, Dani,” Noah murmured in my ear. “Very artful.” I turned with a smile and handed him a small plate. “The first piece never comes out right. Want to try?” He pouted. “Don’t I get sauce?” I laughed and drizzled some of both sauces on top and added the whipped cream. I waited while Noah lifted the spoon and slid a mouthful between his lips. His eyes closed as he chewed and swallowed, and he let out a long exhale of air. His eyes opened, glittering under the light.

Ignoring the bustle around us, he leaned forward, cupping my face and kissing me. “That was the second most delicious thing I’ve tasted today.” “What was the ﬁrst?” He pressed his lips to my ear. “You.”

Dessert was pronounced a success. Callie was thrilled; Noah kept making comments about how talented his girl was and ﬁst-pumping the air every time one of the servers came back and passed on a customer’s compliments. I rolled my eyes at Callie, although I was secretly pleased by his enthusiasm. “Does he do this a lot?” She shook her head and smiled. “He’s never brought anyone here, Dani—and I’ve never seen him act like this with anyone. Ever.” I had to smile in agreement; I had never acted like this with someone either. But there was something about Noah—I couldn’t stop myself. Tonight was a lot of work, but also a lot of fun, and I was glad I could do something to help him. I enjoyed the bustle of the kitchen and watching the siblings and their partners work together. When Noah told Callie to cut o dessert service so there was enough of the sweet treats left for our dinner, everyone laughed—especially when he pouted and muttered he was serious. Callie shooed me out to the deck with a glass of wine and told me I’d done enough. There were a couple of people left ﬁnishing their meals, but otherwise, the dinner service was over. Ella was setting a table in the corner of the deck, and I

wandered over to see if I could help. She told me my contribution was already ﬁnished, so I leaned against the rail and took in the peaceful view. I drew in a deep breath, letting it out slowly. It was so di erent here, so removed from my everyday life. Quiet, peaceful, and calm. The air was rich with the scent of the earth and crops that surrounded us. There was no sound of tra c, car horns, or people talking on their cell phones, hurrying to be somewhere. Always hurrying, always busy, always rushed—just like my own life. With a start, I realized I hadn’t thought of the o ce or my workload once since I had gotten here earlier. Usually, it was on my mind constantly. I liked it here. Strong arms wrapped around my waist, drawing me against a hard chest. Noah dropped his chin into my neck. “Thank you for tonight. You have no idea what you did. You…amaze me, Dani.” “I like to bake.” “You just made dinner service one of the best we’ve had all season. The customers all raved over your desserts. I wanted to bring you out to take a bow, but Callie told me to leave you alone.” “I’m glad I could help. I don’t need to take a bow.” He spun me in his arms, pulling me close. “How about my own personal thank you?” “That, I’d like.” He cupped my face, staring at me intently then lowering his mouth to mine, breathing my name. His kiss was di erent from earlier. It was slow, deep, and ﬁlled with an emotion I couldn’t identify. His tongue explored my mouth gently, his

taste overwhelming me. He moaned low in his throat, sliding his hands around my neck, his thumbs stroking my skin in small circles. I gripped his shoulders, surrendering myself to him totally. It was intense, deep, and sweetly passionate. Unexpected tears sprang to my eyes at the feelings he stirred in me. When he drew back, pulling my head against his chest, I could hear his heart thundering under my ear, and he nuzzled my hair, holding me close. “What you do to me, Dani.” “I don’t…” I trailed o . “You do,” he stated ﬁrmly. “You just do.” Gabe’s voice boomed out. “Hey! If you can tear yourselves away from each other, dinner is ready!” Stepping back, he reached for my hand. “Come on, my girl. Let me feed you again.” I tilted my head to the side. “What?” “You keep calling me your girl.” He ran his thumb under my damp eyes. “I would have thought, after today, that was a given. You are. At least, I want you to be—if you want to be.” “I’d like that.” “Then it’s settled.” He smiled. “Mine.”

I slid into the chair beside Noah, my stomach grumbling at the sight and aroma of the delicious food. Noah poured wine

for everyone, topping up my glass. He lifted his glass high. “To another successful week of service.” I lifted my glass to toast them, when Callie spoke. “To the most successful dessert course we’ve ever had.” I blushed at her words and the murmured assents from everyone. Noah winked at me, his grin wide. He lifted a platter, holding it for me. “Help yourself.” Dinner was incredible. The roast was studded with garlic and herbs and melted in my mouth. The spicy beans that I helped pick were crisp and fresh, and the potatoes tossed with dill, refreshing. Every bite was spectacular. The red wine sauce was so delicious I wanted to eat it with a spoon. I settled for mopping it up with chunks of the soft rosemary-infused bread from the basket. The wine ﬂowed freely, and I was sure I’d never laughed so hard in my life. Gabe was a born entertainer and loved to tell stories. He and Noah joked around, trading “remember when” antics about growing up. “The ﬁrst time Noah helped out in the garden, he decided if one seed and a little water were good, a bunch of seeds and a lot of water were better,” Gabe informed me with a sly smile. “It took days to dry out that section of the garden. The herbs needed thinning constantly.” “You were supposed to be watching over me,” Noah responded. “I think you were busy in the pen with Sally.” “Sally?” I asked.

“His pet pig.” He winked. “She disappeared one day, never to be seen again.” I bit my lip to stop myself from laughing. “She was cute and liked me.” Gabe looked at me, serious. “She ran away and joined the circus. Mom told me.” The entire table laughed. “We had the best-tasting bacon all summer,” Noah said dryly. “Gabe refused to eat it. Dad warned him not to make friends with the pigs.” I nodded, trying not to laugh at his expression. “Right.” I glanced at Noah, who leaned close to my ear. “Sally actually went to another farm by accident. One of the sta made a mistake. But we liked to tease him. He boycotted bacon for an entire year.” “Just bacon?” I asked quietly. “What about other pork products?” “He wasn’t that bright as a kid,” Noah deadpanned. “He only associated bacon with pigs. Mom started eliminating the word pork when she would tell us what was for dinner. Chops or ribs, she’d say.” I gave up and laughed. I learned that Callie and John were high school sweethearts. Gabe and Ella met in university. Gabe was the oldest, Callie born two years after him. Noah was four years her junior. They were obviously a tight-knit group and were all very fond of one another. I also discovered, thanks to the scene John stumbled on, I had now earned the nickname Sprout with all of them. Even

Noah snickered over that. I heard some stories of their children. Tori and Ray were Gabe and Ella’s two. Trevor was Callie and John’s son. Noah was a proud uncle, his a ection for them obvious. “My parents are pushovers for them.” He said with a chuckle, making Gabe and Callie laugh in agreement. “They get away with stu we never could at their age.” Then he grinned. “But they are pretty damn awesome kids.” All bets were o when the dessert came out. Noah practically growled at his family, making sure he got the biggest slice of both desserts and covering them both in caramel sauce and whipped cream. Given the amount of dinner he had consumed, I was shocked he still could find room for dessert, but he polished o both slices with a cup of co ee and eyed up the last piece in the pan until Callie finally pushed the tray toward him and he cleaned it out. Callie grinned at me. “Sweet tooth,” she mouthed. I filed away that information for later. They got up to clear the table, refusing my help and insisting Noah stay to keep me company. Noah set down his bowl, resting his arm across the back of my chair. I shivered as his fingers stroked my neck. His voice was a low hum in the quiet evening. “I haven’t enjoyed a dinner that much since…well, I can’t remember when.” “It was delicious.” “It was, but I wasn’t talking about the food. I enjoyed having you beside me. My family liked you—you fit in well.”

I smiled at his praise. “I enjoyed being here. And I liked them too.” “Just them?” he teased. “Oh, ah, no,” I admitted. “I sorta prefer you, if I’m being honest.” He grinned. “I like honesty.” He leaned close, his breath warm on my skin. “You’ve been drinking.” “So have you.” “I only had one glass, and I just have to drive the golf cart down the lane.” He nudged my hair out of the way with his nose, dropping his mouth to my ear. “And you’re coming home with me.” My breath caught. “Noah…” “You can’t drive. I can’t let you.” “Okay.” “You’ll come home with me?” “Yes.” His voice became husky. “Will you sleep in my bed?” “With you?” I squeaked. His mouth quirked. “Well, I can ask Callie to bunk with you if you prefer, but I was hoping with me.” I bit my lip. He slipped his ﬁngers under my chin. “Just to sleep, Dani. Let me hold you. That’s all I want.” “Oh.”

“You sound disappointed.” The wine made me brave. His touch on my skin made me braver. “I like it when you kiss me.” His eyes darkened. “That, baby, I can promise you is gonna happen. Every chance I get.” He stood, holding out his hand. “Come home with me.” I put my hand in his and let him lead me.

CHAPTER SEVEN

NOAH

pulled Dani to her feet, anxious to take her home and have her alone. I wanted to talk to her, discover more about her. Kiss her and not worry about being interrupted. We walked through the kitchen. It was immaculate, the last of the cleanup now done. We said good night to everyone, and the girls hugged Dani, telling her they hoped to see her again soon. She seemed surprised by their welcome and acceptance, but also pleased. I was thrilled how well she ﬁt in with our little group. Gabe grinned at us, slapped me on the shoulder, and pushed something into my hand. “Stay safe, kids.” I looked down, my gaze narrowing as I held up four condoms. I rolled my eyes, planning on throwing them back at him, but Dani plucked them from my hand and smirked at him. “Four, Gabe? I’m sure Noah has far more stamina than that —at least, I hope so. You could have sprung for the whole box.” His expression was priceless. It wasn’t often you could render my brother speechless, but Dani did just that. Ella

slapped his ass, John and Callie laughed, and I pulled Dani out of the restaurant before he had a chance to recover and do something else to embarrass me. I kissed her hard before she got in the golf cart, trying to apologize for Gabe’s behavior. She tucked the condoms into my pocket, patting it with a smile. “It’s fine—that’s what brothers do. But we won’t need those.” “No?” I asked, disappointed but not surprised. It was a little fast, although that didn’t stop me from wanting her. “I’m covered,” she whispered. “It’s been over a year for me, and I’m on birth control.” I leaned my forehead against hers. “It’s been a long time for me, Dani. A long time. I’m clean.” “Then let’s save the condoms and use them to throw water balloons at Gabe when he least expects it.” I laughed. She was amazing. I kissed her again. “When you’re ready.” She smiled. “Take me home, Noah.” I was more than happy to oblige. When we arrived at the house, I studied her. “Tired?” “A little.” “How about a drink on the deck, then we’ll go to bed?” “That sounds lovely.” I poured us each a brandy and carried them out to the deck. Dani was curled up on the love seat by the fire pit. I handed her the brandies and, in five minutes, had a fire going. Sitting beside her, I took my brandy and hummed in

contentment. We were quiet for a few moments, watching the flames catch and spread, the orange and yellow flickering in the dark. The snap and crack of the wood was the only sound in the darkness surrounding us. “So peaceful,” she whispered. I squeezed her knee. “It is. I love it here.” “You use the fire pit a lot?” “Yeah, I do. It’s great to sit and unwind at the end of the week or some nights if I can’t sleep. I light the fire and look at the stars.” She glanced up, studying the sky. “Wow, they’re so bright here.” “No lights or smog to detract from the view,” I replied. She sighed, the sound soft and sad. “You okay?” I asked. “I’m fine. It feels odd, to be honest. Being here.” “Odd?” I repeated. “Quite often, I work from home on a Saturday night. Me, a bottle of wine, and my laptop. I wouldn’t have dreamed that I’d be sitting under the stars with a sexy stock boy slash chef who also happens to be a kissexpert.” She grinned. “Unexpected.” Setting down my brandy, I slid closer, lifting her legs onto my lap. I draped my arm over the back of the frame and wrapped my hand around her thigh. “Good unexpected?” I asked. “Or bad?”

She cupped my cheek, her fingers restless on my skin. “Good,” she breathed out. “So good.” I captured her mouth with mine, dragging her onto my lap. I groaned at the feel of her pressed against me. Her tongue slid along mine, the heat and taste of her mouth addictive. Brandy, peaches, and Dani. I slanted my mouth, kissing her deeper. Harder. She was right there with me, her soft whimpers ramping me up. She clutched my shoulder, fisting my shirt. I slid my hand under the shirt she’d borrowed, feeling the silkiness of her back. Our lips molded together seamlessly as we learned each other. I broke away, burying my face into her neck. I kissed the soft skin, teasing it with my tongue. My desire for her once again took hold, and I nuzzled behind her ear. She gasped quietly, tilting her head to give me better access. I sucked her lobe into my mouth, nibbling at the tender flesh. Then, unexpectedly, she yawned. Not a small, easily covered-up yawn. A long, loud yawn that made her shiver in my arms. Laughing, I pulled back. “Apparently my game is way o .” “I’m so sorry.” I stroked her cheek. “Don’t be. You had a long week, and then you came here and baked for us.” I smiled. “For me. You’re exhausted.” I stood, placing her on her feet. “I’m not upset. Let’s go to bed.” I put the lid on the fire, making sure it was safe, then we went inside. Upstairs, I gave her a fresh shirt and an unopened toothbrush from the drawer.

“Prepared, are you?” she asked, teasing, but I saw the spark of worry in her lovely eyes. I chuckled. “I’m hard on toothbrushes. I go through one every couple of weeks.” I opened the drawer to show her. “I keep a large supply.” I kissed her. “I’m not a player, Dani. Like I said, it’s been a long time.” I frowned. “In fact, aside from my family, I’ve never had a woman here. You’re the ﬁrst.” I rubbed my nose along hers a ectionately. “Get ready. I’ll be waiting.” I pulled down the blanket, wondering if she would need more than the light covering. It was all I used in the summer. The house was cool thanks to the air conditioner, but not cool enough to need a duvet in the heat. When she appeared, looking unsure but so sweet, I lifted the cover. “In.” She slipped in, and I pulled up the cotton. “Do you need a heavier cover?” “Um, are you sleeping here?” “It is my bed. I planned to.” “Then I’m good.” “Be right back.” I rushed through getting ready, coming out of the bathroom and stopping. Dani was curled up, hugging the pillow, and asleep. I smiled, feeling pleased she felt safe enough with me to relax and fall asleep, yet disappointed because I wasn’t ready for the night to end. I slid in beside her, turning o the light. I left the one on in the bathroom in case she woke up disoriented. I reached over

and stroked her hair, pleased when she turned and burrowed herself into my side, ﬂinging her arm over my torso and hooking her leg with mine. The feel of her tight against me brought me a sense of completion I hadn’t realized was missing. Pressing a light kiss to her hair, I shut my eyes and let sleep take me.

I woke up slowly, opening my eyes and blinking in the early morning light. Dani was still curled up beside me, sound asleep, although she had moved away in the night. She had one hand tucked under her cheek as she slumbered. Her blond hair had come loose and was spread out on the pillow behind her, and her other hand rested on my arm, the paleness of her skin a vivid contrast to my sun-darkened hue. Even with sun block, I tanned easily—I had a feeling she was never out of the o ce during the day to get any sun. I studied her in the morning light. I had no idea why I felt this instant pull to her. But the moment I’d ﬁrst seen her sitting in her car, looking uncertain, I had wanted to reach out to her. It took all I had in me to walk back into the store and wait to see if she would follow, and then not to interject my company on her instantly when she ﬁnally came inside. I stayed close, hoping to strike up a conversation. When she lifted her gaze to mine, the pull turned into a vortex. Her eyes were a mass of emotion. She looked tired, wary, and sad, her body language fraught with tension. I wanted to erase all those negative feelings and make her smile. Ease her stress. I had always been protective of the women in my life. My mother, sister, Ella, even my female cousins—I felt a certain responsibility toward each of them. But nothing like the

protective feeling that had swept over me when I saw Dani. The need to take care of her kicked into high gear when I saw her shaking hand and she had quietly admitted she hadn’t eaten. That was a need I could meet. When the mention of her o ce caused a panic attack, my heart ached for her. It was a terrifying emotional roller coaster I was far too familiar with. I had hated seeing her leave that day. And when Gabe had come in yesterday and told me she was out in the parking lot sitting in her car, I couldn’t get to her fast enough, worried she’d had another panic attack, and at the same time grateful she was here and I could be the one to help her if she required it. The fact that she came back even though she thought I was only a stock boy pleased me greatly as well. I was hoping she had come back because she felt the same draw I did, and what I did for a living didn’t matter. The strength of the emotion she caused in me was something I couldn’t explain. The closeness I felt to her was shocking—it was as if she slipped into a void in my life and filled it completely—a void I hadn’t even known existed. The physical attraction was like its own entity. Desire for her exploded the second our lips touched. Her passionate response lit a flame that only grew the longer I spent in her company. When she stepped up, o ering to help with dessert, and blew us all out of the water—not only with her skills, but the way she fit in with my family—I knew I was in deep. Beside me, she stirred. Her hand tightened on my arm, her eyes fluttered open, and she smiled. The color was unique—a dark blue that was unexpected with her pale coloring. They mesmerized me.

“Hi.” “Hey, Sprout.” She wrinkled her nose, giggling. I had to kiss her little button nose, she looked so adorable. “I like waking up with you in my bed.” “It’s a nice bed.” “Just the bed is nice?” I murmured, my voice husky and low. She grinned, her eyes dancing. “These pillows are pretty nice.” I ran a ﬁnger over her collarbone, letting it drift lower, ghosting over the swells of her breasts. “Yours are pretty nice as well.” She blushed, slapping my hand away, and curled back up, hugging her nice pillow. “You’re incorrigible.” I snickered at her and turned serious. “I can’t thank you enough for last night, Dani. You were amazing.” “I enjoyed it. I love to bake.” “Do you like to cook too?” She shrugged. “I manage, but I don’t enjoy it the way I enjoy baking.” She smiled at me. “You cook very well.” “I love cooking—it’s like a creative outlet for me. But I can’t bake.” I pulled her hand toward me, kissing the palm. “See, we’re a perfect team. I cook, you bake.” “Yeah. Perfect.” “I guess you have to stay so you can bake for me all the time.”

“I have a job, Noah. I can’t just stay here and bake.” “I could make you.” “Oh, really?” She laughed. “Is that supposed to scare me? What are you going to do?” “I could kidnap you and hold you hostage in my basement. I’ll keep you as my apple crisp hostage.” She propped herself up on her elbows, her eyes dancing with mischief. “You have a basement? I didn’t see one.” I leaned up on my elbow and smirked at her. “That’s your concern? If I have a basement? Shouldn’t you be more concerned about the kidnapping comment? Or the hostage one?” “Well, it’s a big flaw in your plan if you don’t have one. Where would you keep me?” “I could chain you up in the kitchen. Probably a better idea. Easier access for the apple crisp making.” “Seems like a lot of work for dessert.” I shifted closer, letting my hand trail down her back, following the delicate ridges of her spine. I paused, then ran my fingers down her hip and cupped her rounded butt cheek. “I’m thinking you have other…assets I would covet aside from your baking skills, Ms. Rawlins.” She blinked at me. Turning her head, she looked at my hand resting on her ass, then looked back at me. I grinned at her, knowing how much she loved it when I did. She started to giggle. Light-filled, silly giggles that made my lips twitch to join her.

“You find your ass a laughing matter, Dani?” I flexed my fingers. “I find it rather…stimulating myself.” She bit her lip, trying to hold in her amusement. She failed miserably and started to laugh. Loud, happy peals rang out, and she dropped her face into her pillow, her shoulders shaking with mirth. I started to laugh with her. She really had no idea how appealing she was, especially lying beside me, her hair a mess, wearing my T-shirt, and looking all soft and sexy. But I loved the fact that I’d made her laugh—I got to hold her ass, so it was a double bonus. It was a great ass. I bent my head, nipping her earlobe sharply. “Do I need to help you stop laughing?” She lifted her head mid-laugh and looked at me—a direct challenge. “Maybe.” “Oh, Ms. Rawlins. You’re so on.” In one move, I grasped her hip and flipped her onto her back, pressing her body into the mattress. I rose over her, hovering close, supporting my weight on my arms. Settling between her legs, I had to stifle a groan at the way she looked underneath me. The movement caused the T-shirt she was wearing to ride up, showing me the tiny pink underwear she was wearing—the flirty little bows on the sides begging for my fingers to untie them. The shirt caught under her weight and pulled tight to her body, the material strained across her chest, her hardened nipples beckoning. Keeping my gaze locked with hers, I lowered my face to her breast, rubbing a hard nub with my chin. “I’m not the only one stimulated, I see.”

She let out a soft, shaky sigh. “As lovely as your assets were from the back, Dani, they are even more so now.” I pressed my mouth against the taut shirt, drawing her sti nipple between my teeth and pulling gently. She arched o the mattress, wrapping her legs around me and drawing me deeper into her warmth. I groaned, thrusting forward, the sensation too good to stop. “Baby, God I want you …” “You could have had me yesterday,” she whimpered. “I wanted you so much.” “Yeah?” I panted, moving against her. “I wanted to fuck you into the hot dirt so hard, you would have felt me for days.” “I would have let you.” “Fuck,” I groaned. “What else, baby?” Her eyes opened, glowing bright in the morning light. “Noah, if John hadn’t interrupted us, I would have…” She paused, biting her lip. “Would have what? Tell me,” I demanded. “I would have taken you in my mouth—all of you—and made you come. Right there on my knees in that dirt, Noah. I wanted to taste you so much, I was aching for it.” My body froze. Her words settled across my brain like the fog that rolls in just before a summer storm. Thick, swirling—obliterating everything in its path so all you see, feel, and taste is the damp air.

She was the damp air. The image of her, kneeling in the dirt, her hair a wild cloud of white and gold dancing in the breeze, and her mouth wrapped around my cock, took hold. Lust, dormant for so long, burned hot and fast, roaring to life, snaking up my spine and pushing all thoughts of too soon, take it slow, right out of my head. I wanted her, and I wanted her right now. My voice pleaded. “Dani.” “Please.” I attacked. The material of my T-shirt she wore tore easily under my fisted hands. Her breasts sprang free, and I feasted on them greedily, sucking and nipping at the sti peaks. Those flirty bows disintegrated with one tug of my fists, the pale pink satin giving way to expose a deeper shade of pink that glistened, the bare flesh so soft, begging for my touch. Dani tugged and pulled until my sleep pants slipped away and we were melded together skin to skin, exploring and touching. Our lips brushed, teeth nipped, and our hands stroked and caressed. We were in constant motion, needing to touch and discover each other everywhere. Rolling, stretching, bending—our bodies twisting and pliable, the sounds of our passionate coupling filling the room as we discovered each other. She moaned when I sucked her fingers into my mouth, swirling my tongue around them, gasped when I nibbled on the tiniest baby toe I’d ever seen and cried out as I traced my tongue up her thigh, finding her wet center and tasting her. She whimpered and bucked under my mouth, her musky flavor flooding my senses. I groaned

and fisted her hair as she took me in her mouth, the pleasure greater than I even imagined. Her name echoed o the walls like a mantra as I drowned in the sensation. “Dani,” I gasped. “Baby, I want inside you.” She pulled away, a grin curling her lips. “Today’s your lucky day, Noah. I want the same thing.” She tugged me down to her on the bed, and I slid between her legs, groaning at the sensation of being this close. And finally, I was inside her, the warmth and clasp of her overwhelming. My head fell to her shoulder as I stilled, wanting only to feel her. Absorb how she trembled in my arms, her breath hot on my skin as she whimpered my name and met my thrusts, the friction between us sizzling and alive. Wrapped around me, she became my fog. I was lost in the mist, feeling only her, wanting only her. Her nails dug into my back, her body tightening, the lowest, sexiest groan escaping her mouth as she climaxed. The feel of her muscles fluttering and clamping down on my cock drove me over the edge, and I buried myself as deep as I could, roaring her name and emptying myself into her. Dani wrapped her arms around me, holding me tight to her. “I should move,” I murmured against the damp skin of her neck, kissing the flesh softly. “No, I like you right here.” Lifting my head, I met her gaze. Her content, sleepy eyes blinked at me, a shy smile on her face. Brushing my lips over hers, I kissed her slowly, thoroughly, and gently, the frantic need sated. I wanted her to know the depth of what I was

feeling. For her to know this was more. More than either of us had realized. It was fast, it was hard, and it was real. I eased onto my side, bringing her with me and nuzzling her hair. “Dani?” “Hmmm?” “I don’t do casual relationships.” She lifted her head, her glance wary. “Okay?” “What just happened? What’s going to happen again and again? It makes you mine. Utterly and completely mine.” Her expression softened, the sweetest smile lighting up her face. “Yours.” “You okay with that?” “Yeah, I am. I’m more than okay with that.” “Good. I wanted to be clear.” She tucked her head under my chin, tenderly kissing my chest. “Noah?” “Yeah, Sprout?” “If you insist on kidnapping me, I won’t put up much of a ﬁght.” I pulled her closer. “I’ll remember that.”

CHAPTER EIGHT

DANI

hen I woke up again, I rolled over to ﬁnd the bed empty. I could smell a delicious aroma in the house, so I got out of Noah’s comfortable bed, grimacing slightly as muscles I hadn’t used in a long time made their presence known. He got his wish. I could feel him—everywhere. As I padded to the bathroom, a smile broke out on my face. On the vanity was a fresh T-shirt, a pair of his boxers, and a large towel. I hopped into his shower for the second time in less than a day, the hot water feeling great on my sti muscles. I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror, the image startling me. I looked relaxed and cheerful. The stress I always carried felt lighter, almost gone. The shadows in my eyes had disappeared. I looked younger. Happier. I hadn’t planned on Noah. I’d never expected to meet anyone and have such a fast connection with them. I certainly hadn’t expected to see him again after last week. Or to spend the evening with him and his family, baking dessert for his restaurant. I should have known there was way more to him than a stock boy.

I certainly never expected to sleep with him so quickly. But with Noah, it felt right. We meshed together so well. He brought out feelings and sensations in me I had never experienced before. One touch from him and I was on ﬁre. I shook my head as I stepped out of the shower. I probably should be regretting what happened between us, but I wasn’t. All I felt was the desire to see him again. To be close to him. Once clean and dressed in his clothes, I went downstairs. Noah was standing by the large window, sipping from a mug of co ee. He was bare-chested, a pair of sleep pants hanging low on his hips, and he looked rumpled and sexy. The sun streamed in the glass, highlighting his wild hair. He glanced up as I paused on the stairs, his gaze warm and his smile surprisingly bashful. He held out his hand, pulling me close and nuzzling my head. “Good morning…again.” “Hi,” I whispered. “I like seeing you in my clothes, Dani.” He pressed his lips harder. “Although seeing you out of them earlier was pretty awesome as well.” I blushed at his husky voice. “You okay?” I nodded against his chest. “I’m good.” He slipped his ﬁngers under my chin, lifting my head and studying my face. “Do you regret it?” “No!” “Why are you so quiet?”

I sighed, not sure how to explain what I was feeling. Lifting his mug, he pressed it to my lips, nodding in encouragement for me to take a sip. “Tell me.” “I’m not… I don’t usually… In fact, I never…” I hu ed at my stumbling words. “I don’t make a habit of sleeping with someone I barely know.” I laughed, feeling self-conscious. “I rarely sleep with someone I know well, either. I just don’t —” He laid a ﬁnger against my lips, silencing me. “I don’t either, Dani. There’s something between us—something I can’t explain. Can you feel it?” “Yes.” “So, we’re each other’s exception to the rule.” His smile was wide and wonderful. “I’m good with that.” “Me too.” “Then stop overthinking this. We are…what we are.” “Which is?” His mouth replaced his mug, the air we shared warm and pulsating on my lips. “We’re us. We’re together,” he whispered, then kissed me. “We’ll ﬁgure it out as we go, okay?” “Okay.” “I made us breakfast.” “Feeding me again?” “That’s part of my new job.”

I nuzzled his scru , biting the skin gently. “What else does it entail?” “Making sure you’re okay, kissing you as much as possible, and making love to you again every chance I get.” “Lots of responsibilities.” “I’m good at wearing many hats.” “I’m getting that idea.” Noah laughed, kissing the end of my nose. “Come on, Sprout. Breakfast awaits.”

Noah made the best stu ed French toast I’d ever eaten. It tasted even better due to how I ate it. We sat on the wide steps of his back deck, me on the step below sitting sideways, nestled against his strong thigh, his other leg balancing the plate that was piled high. We shared the food, him feeding me on occasion and pressing the mug to my mouth for sips of co ee as we ate, not speaking, just enjoying the sounds of nature all around us. He had brought a blanket, draping it around his shoulders and wrapping it and me against him. I never wanted to leave that warm cocoon of his arms. The very best part was when he would steal his ﬁngers under my chin, tilting my face up to his, and drop syrupy-sweet kisses onto my mouth, dipping his tongue in and kissing me until we were both breathless. He tasted even better than the French toast. “What do you usually do on Sundays?” I asked. “Relax, read, laundry. See my parents. It’s the one day I take o during the busy summer season.”

“The restaurant is open six days a week?” “No, we’re closed Sundays and Mondays. So is the store. But we make sure it’s stocked and ready for Tuesday. We do up the donation boxes. We keep the produce fresh, and the overstock is sent to food banks to use.” “That’s awesome.” “Nutritious food can really help a person. You need that energy. Knowing our produce helps feed someone is something I’m very proud of.” He took a bite of French toast, chewing slowly, and swallowed. “It’s frightening how much produce is wasted because it’s not perfect-looking or because the outside leaves are wilted. Soups, salads, casseroles still taste great made with vegetables that might have been tossed otherwise. And it’s important to give back.” I stared up at him in wonder. “You are pretty amazing,” I murmured. He smiled and kissed me. “Back at you, Sprout.” I laughed at the new nickname, but I had to admit I liked it. I’d never had a nickname until now. Together, we did the few dishes, working e ciently in his bright, spacious kitchen. We sat down on the sofa, sipping fresh mugs of hot co ee. I tried not to be too disappointed I wasn’t sharing his mug anymore. He smirked at me because he knew exactly what I was thinking. “What time do you have to head back?” he asked quietly. “Soon,” I replied, the regret in my voice plain, even to me. “The next while is going to be crazy, so I need to take care of things—laundry, shopping, picking up my dry cleaning— things like that.” I inhaled a deep lungful of air, trying to

ignore the immediate stirrings of tension I could feel. “I have to try to figure out why my numbers aren’t working.” Noah nodded, picking up my hand and playing with my fingers. “Have you asked your IT department?” “What?” “Maybe something is wrong with the program you’re trying to use.” “I’ve used it before.” “Glitches happen.” He shrugged. “It’s worth asking the question.” “Yeah, I guess it is. I’ll send them an email today, so they can check it first thing tomorrow. Thanks for the suggestion.” He smirked. “I haven’t always worked on the farm, Dani.” “I’d like to hear about that, one day.” He nodded. “One day.” He drained his mug, setting it down on the table. “Can I help?” “With?” He slid closer so he was tight to my side. He ran his fingers over my cheek, smiling, his eyes gentle. “Help take some of the load o . I can send you home with lots of groceries. I have a ton of frozen, easy-to-heat meals in my freezer—I make them from things in the restaurant and my mom keeps me supplied as well, so I don’t have to cook on my days o . You can take some of those, plus whatever you want from the store.” “You don’t have to do that.”

“But I want to. At least I’ll know you’re eating well. I’ll make sure you have lots of apples and cheese, too.” “And honey butter?” He grinned. “I’ll throw in some of my mom’s apple butter too. And her jam. She makes the best strawberry jam you’ve ever tasted.” “I’d like that.” “Can I see you? I know you’ll be busy, but I don’t think I can wait until your deal closes next week to see you again.” He brushed his mouth over mine. “Not now, not after yesterday and this morning—especially this morning.” “I don’t know what my hours will be, when I can get here…” I whimpered as his lips danced over my skin, and he tugged teasingly on my bottom lip. “I’ll come to you. But say you want that too.” “I do.” “Send me your addresses—work and home—and I’ll figure it out.” He paused, his fingers still on my neck. “Dani…” He had suddenly become very serious, his eyes intense as he stared at me. “What?” I whispered. “I need you to promise me something.” “Okay?” “I want you to see someone about your panic attacks.” “I’m fine. They’ll go away.”

“They might. But they might not. Panic attacks are your body’s way of telling you it can’t handle the stress you’re putting on it.” “The stress will be gone soon.” “What about the deal after this one? Or the one after that?” “It’s never happened before, Noah. I’m a little stretched right now. Really, I’m ﬁne.” “So ﬁne, you tensed the very second I mentioned work.” “You just reminded me of my problem, that’s all.” He stood, raking his hands through his hair. “I disagree, but I’m not going to argue with you. Until you’re ready, you won’t listen. All I ask is you promise me you’ll think about it.” “I will.” He held out his hand, pulling me to my feet. He wrapped his arms around me, holding me tight. “If you need me, call me. I’m not letting you leave without my number. I’ll get to you as fast as I can.” “Okay.” He pressed a heavy kiss to my head. “Okay. Let’s go get you loaded up.”

I had barely made it through my door when my phone buzzed. Noah: I shouldn’t have let you leave. I miss you.

I smiled at his words, running my ﬁngers over my stillswollen lips. His goodbye had been thorough. So thorough, I thought he might throw me down and have me on the trunk lid. A car driving by honking had brought us both to our senses, and he ﬁnally let me slide into the driver’s seat. He had hunched down, kissing me again—this time slow and sweet. Then he stood, his voice thick. “Remember—you need me, I’m here.” I replied to his text, still smiling. Me: I miss you too. Just arrived and unpacking the massive amount of food you sent me home with. Noah: Make sure you eat. You need to be strong. Me: I will. His next text made my breath catch in my throat. Noah: I can still taste you. My bed smells like you. My head fell to my chest. I could feel his passion through the phone. Me: Stop. You’re killing me. Noah: What a way to go, though. Right, Sprout? Me: Leaving the phone to unpack now. Noah: I’ll be in touch—soon. Me: Okay. I put away the boxes of food Noah had sent, threw in some laundry, ran out and grabbed my dry cleaning, then returned home. There was nothing I needed at the store, thanks to Noah’s generosity—he’d even sent cream and eggs. I made some co ee and opened my laptop, working away, making

sure my data was correct, and then emailed Wayne in the IT department, asking him to check the program when it still didn’t work. Noah was right—it didn’t hurt to ask. Then I got busy checking the rest of the data. With a sigh, I sat up and rolled my shoulders, feeling the tight muscles protest from the awkward position. I glanced at the clock, surprised to see it was after six. The afternoon had ﬂown by. Beside me, my phone buzzed. Noah: My mom makes great pot roast. I chuckled at the random text. Me: Having dinner, are you? Noah: No—we always have a late lunch. I ate a couple of hours ago. I saved you some. I shook my head at his thoughtfulness. I wasn’t used to that. Me: Freeze it for me. Noah: She made bread today. I snagged you some of that too. That was missing from your care package today. I had to laugh at his statement. “Care package.” The man sent me enough food, jam, and honey butter to last a month and he called it a care package. Me: Noah, you’re spoiling me. Noah: I like spoiling you. Did you eat dinner? I grimaced, knowing he wouldn’t like the fact that I hadn’t even thought about dinner yet. I ﬁbbed a little in my reply.

Me: I was about to. Noah: I highly recommend pot roast. Me: It’s a little far away right now. Noah: I told you—I’d come to you. I gasped, my fingers flying over the keys. Me: Where are you? Noah: Outside your door. It’s lonely and noisy out here. Can I come in? I wasn’t sure my feet touched the floor as I raced to the door, yanking it open. Noah stood there, a knapsack over his shoulder and another Harvest Table box held in his arms. He looked nervous. “Too much?” Reaching out, I fisted his shirt in my hand and pulled him inside. Seconds later, the box was on the table, his knapsack hit the floor, and he wrapped his arms around me so tightly I could hardly breathe. We both groaned as our mouths met, melding together. It was a kiss of welcome, relief, and need. It was messy, sloppy, and perfect as we greeted each other, the sweet surprise at seeing him rushing through me. “What are you doing, you crazy man?” “I finished the late lunch with my family, and I went home, planning on my usual quiet Sunday of relaxing and reading. But all I could think about was you. So, I got in my truck and drove in.” “Where did you park?”

“I met a woman when I was looking for a spot—she said she was your neighbor. Angie, I think?” I nodded. “She said her husband was away until Tuesday and I could park in her spot—right beside you.” I lifted my eyebrow at him. “And the knapsack?” He grinned, looking impish. “I have a note from my mom saying I could spend the night if you wanted.” I burst out laughing. “I can stay until Tuesday morning.” “That’s two nights.” “I brought pot roast.” “You sure know how to sell a girl.” “I thought maybe we could test out that stamina theory you had.” “After the pot roast?” He waggled his eyebrows. “Deﬁnitely. You’re gonna need the fuel.”

CHAPTER NINE

DANI

t was well past two when I woke up. I rolled onto my side, turning my head and smiling at Noah in the dim light coming from the hall. He was watching me, his hand resting on my hip. “You’re not asleep?” He smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. “I’m not used to the noise anymore.” “You used to live here?” “A long time ago.” I sensed he didn’t want to talk about it. “Can I do something to help you sleep?” He ran his hand down my side, taking the blanket with him. He edged closer, his large hand spread across my back, teasing my skin, giving me shivers. “What do you have in mind, Ms. Rawlins?” “Whatever you want.” He hitched my leg over his thigh, his erection pressing against me, hard and unyielding. He ghosted his ﬁngers over

my breast, circling my nipple with his thumb. “So…so many possibilities.” I arched into his touch, groaning as his cock slid against me. After eating what I was sure was the best pot roast I’d ever tasted, he’d fucked me on my couch, and then again after we came to bed—early—because he insisted that I looked “tired.” I should be exhausted, but I wanted him again. Desperately. And from the way his cock pressed into me, he felt the same way. “I want you slow, Dani. I want to watch you come for me.” He wrapped his hand around my neck, pulling my face close to his, his voice low with desire. “I want to hear you whimper my name. Feel you clutch my cock and shatter all around me.” I groaned, aching for him to ﬁll me again. He covered my mouth, kissing me. His tongue slid along mine, delving, exploring, possessing. I had never been kissed the way Noah kissed me. I felt his emotion, his passion, in every glide of his tongue, nip of his teeth, and the low grunts and growls deep in his chest. He cupped my head, his large hands never rough, but ﬁrm and warm. He directed me without words, and I followed, happy to go wherever he wanted me as long as it was with him. He pressed forward, slipping inside and moving leisurely, his thrusts slow, deep, and even. He buried his face into my neck, swirling his tongue, his breath hot on my skin. He nibbled on my ear, pulling the lobe between his teeth and whispering praises in the dim light. “You feel so good, Dani.” “Inside you is like heaven.”

“Being with you is my favorite thing ever. I never want it to end.” He caressed and stroked with his long fingers moving over my clit in gentle passes, making my breath hitch and every nerve in my body tingle and spark. We moved in perfect synchronization—as if we’d been doing this for years, not a couple of days. Like a banked, low fire, our passion built, finally erupting—his grip becoming tighter, his fingers moving faster, his thrusts more powerful. “Now, baby… Come for me now,” he pleaded, pressing his fingers down. I shattered, my entire body locking down, crying out his name as he pulled me closer, groaning into my neck. “So good, Dani,” he praised. “You feel so fucking good.” He pushed deeper forward, holding me close, and emptied himself inside me, shuddering and moaning my name. Gently he separated us, only to pull me back into his arms, wrapping me close. “I love having you beside me,” he whispered. I hummed in agreement, smiling as his entire frame relaxed, his body becoming heavy with sleep. I guess I had helped.

Noah came to the o ce with me Monday morning, insisting he wanted to pick up a few things and explore the city a little. “I have a friend I texted. He’s going to meet me in town for co ee. I’ll wander for a bit and meet up with him.”

“An old friend?” He grimaced, then a smile replaced the odd look on his face. “A good one. We drifted apart, but we’re closer again. Daniel’s a veterinarian and a busy guy, but he insisted we meet since I’m so close.” “That’s great.” I stopped at the o

ce. “This is me.”

He glanced up at the tall structure. I was sure I saw a shudder run through his frame and another frown mar his face. “Looks familiar,” he muttered. Before I could ask, he pulled me into his arms. “I hope today is okay for you. Call me if you need me.” “I’ll be fine,” I assured him, forcing down the anxiety that had been building the closer we got to the o ce. I didn’t want him to worry. He met my eyes. “I’m here.” I smiled. “I know.” Upstairs, I went into my o ce, sitting at my desk. It felt strange to be here, which made no sense. I spent more time behind this desk than anywhere. I shook my head, opening my laptop and getting to work. Lynn arrived, bringing in a cup of co ee and a stack of mail and files. She greeted me with her usual cheerfulness. “Morning, boss. How was your weekend? I hope you didn’t spend all of it here,” she inquired as she puttered around, fixing already perfect cushions and tapping a plant pot on the window ledge over a fraction of an inch. “No. Actually, I, ah, spent Saturday and Sunday with a friend.”

She stopped in her incessant tidying of my o you say?”

ce. “What did

I chuckled. I knew I had shocked her. I was certain I had never mentioned spending time with a friend until now. “I spent some time with a friend,” I repeated. Her eyes narrowed. “Anyone I know?” “No.” “Does this friend have a name?” I couldn’t help teasing her. “Yes. I don’t think his parents would forget a thing like that. It would be weird just calling him ‘it’ all his life.” She laughed and put her hands on her hips. “Okay, ﬁrst you don’t work all weekend, then you suddenly have a friend. Who are you, and where is my boss?” Then she crossed her arms. “Name. Now.” I chuckled. “Noah.” “And Noah is?” “Not here,” I said mildly, shocked at how much I wished he were. “But my work is.” She took the hint. “You better spill more later.” She walked out as Wayne appeared at my door. “Dani, there was a glitch. Try your numbers again.” I heaved a small sigh of relief, grateful to Noah for his suggestion. In my tired, panicked state of mind, I hadn’t thought of calling IT. “Thanks, Wayne.”

“Anything else, let me know.” “I will.” I took a sip of co ee, trying not to compare it to the rich brew that Noah made, then got to work. My numbers worked exactly the way they should have all along, and the stress of the possible miscalculations on my part dissolved. The team came to my o ce, and we worked on the ﬁnal preparations needed for the presentation on Friday. I was amazingly calm, with no panicked feeling or terrible sense of foreboding I had been experiencing. I was grateful it seemed to have passed. Maybe the little break I had taken on the weekend had helped reset my head. Whatever it was, I was grateful. Noah texted me a few times. He sent a couple of pictures of his travels in the city. Noah: When the hell did these buildings go up? This used to be a parking lot—didn’t it? Noah: I think there are about 1 million more cars on the road than there used to be. Good God, the tra c. Even the sidewalks are congested. Once he got back to my place, there was one of him in the kitchen surrounded by pans. Noah: Making dinner. You’ll be here, right? I responded with a thumbs-up and the word yes. Not long afterward, another picture appeared, and I almost choked on the water I was sipping. It was him, in my bed, naked except for the sheet draped artistically over his hips.

Noah: Or we could have dessert first. Me. I’m the dessert. ;) Me: OMG I am at work. Noah: Sort of my point. Look what’s waiting. Hurry home. There were no other texts from him, but I left the o ce earlier than usual, anxious to get home. I texted him when I was on the way to let him know I’d be there soon. When I arrived, my place was filled with the aroma of dinner preparation. Surprised Noah hadn’t greeted me at the door, I followed the trail of rose petals down the hall to the bathroom, pushing open the door. A bunch more roses filled my one and only vase, their fragrance heavenly in the steamy room. Candles were scattered all around, and bubbles spilled over the edge of the tub. Noah himself filled the tub, one leg hanging over the side as he smirked at me, beckoning with one long finger to come closer. He pulled my head down, kissing me passionately. “How was your day, dear?” he murmured against my lips, his eyes dancing with mischief. I slid my hand along his wet arm. “Not as good as my night is going to be.” He flexed his shoulders, lowering his leg into the water and patting his chest. “You want to join me, Sprout?” “I could be persuaded.” “Get in here. Now.” That was all it took to get me into the tub with him. But it took six towels to dry o

the bathroom ﬂoor.

His dinner was delicious, and I patted my lips with my napkin when I ﬁnished eating. “That was the best risotto I

have ever eaten.” After we’d dried o from our bath and cleaned the floor, I had watched him make the risotto. He was a natural in the kitchen, chopping, stirring, tasting. He had me stir the risotto for the last few moments as he pan-fried some large shrimp in garlic, wine, and tomatoes, then filled the dishes with the rice and seafood on top before garnishing them. He was an artist, the plates so lovely I didn’t want to ruin their perfection, except the meal was too good to resist. Noah grinned. “At your service, my lady.” “Did you bring all this with you?” “Some, but I stopped at the market and got a few things after co ee with Daniel.” “How was he?” He smiled. “Great. He’s really good. We thought maybe we could get together soon and have dinner. He has a new girlfriend he is crazy about.” Noah winked. “Another thing we have in common.” I laughed at his words. “I’d like that.” “You were okay today?” he asked after he finished his dinner. “Calm, I mean?” I nodded. “Everything was great. No panic, nothing. I was just having a bad couple of days.” He frowned but didn’t argue. He stood and kissed my head. “How about a walk?” “Sure.”

We wandered around the neighborhood, the area vastly di erent from the space that surrounded his home. Noah was noticeably tenser than he was when we were in his world, and he admitted he found the noise and bustle unsettling. “I’d forgotten how many people there are around all the time. Everywhere I went today, there were hundreds of other people trying to get to the same place.” “Did you live here long?” “Four years.” “Where?” “Right downtown. I had a condo—I used to walk everywhere. The only time I drove was to go home and see my family, so I would rent a car on those rare occasions.” “You didn’t see them a lot?” “No.” That surprised me, given how close they seemed. “Why?” I asked quietly. He led me over to a bench, and we sat down. He didn’t say anything for a moment, leaning his elbows on his thighs, lost in thought. “I was living a di erent life from my family. One I thought I wanted—that was right for me. I immersed myself in it. And when I went home, I felt out of place there, so I stopped going back very much.” “You liked it better here?”

He leaned back, draping his arm along the back of the bench and pulled me closer. “For a while, I thought so.” “Something changed?” “I did.” He rested his chin on my head, silent and reflective. “For a long time, I was stuck, Dani. Lost.” “What do you mean?” “I was busy pursuing a life here, except I came to realize it wasn’t what I wanted. I didn’t belong here, and I didn’t think I belonged in the world my family lived in. It took me a while to figure it out.” “To figure what out?” He hu ed out a sigh. “To figure out I was wrong. To know what really made me happy.” “But you did figure it out.” “Thanks to the love of my family and their patience, yes. And some good advice I finally listened to.” “What kind of good advice?” Abruptly, he stood and held out his hand. “The kind you only listen to when you’re ready to really hear what the person is saying.” He tugged me to my feet. “Let’s go back. At least your townhouse is quieter.” Tuesday morning, I woke beside Noah. I was curled up against him, my head on his chest. He was awake, staring at the ceiling, his fingers absently stroking my arm. I tilted up my head, and he smiled down at me. “Hey, Sprout.” “Hi. You’re awake early.”

“Habit. By this time, I’m usually in the ﬁeld picking something or doing some sort of chore.” “What time are you heading back?” I asked, forcing myself to keep my voice light. It frightened me how much I was going to miss him. “Well, funny you should ask. I talked with Callie and Gabe, and they’re going to cover today. So unless you have any objection, I’m going to stay one more day with you. I’ll leave early tomorrow and be there when the day usually starts.” He paused. “If you want.” Relief made me giddy. I smiled widely. “Does this mean you’ll cook me dinner again?” “I could be persuaded.” I ran my hand down his torso, wrapping my hand around his already erect cock. “I can be persuasive,” I murmured, stroking along his shaft. “Very persuasive.” He groaned. “Then you have me for another day.” He rolled on top of me, settling between my legs, his mouth hovering over mine. “And I think we should celebrate.” “Yes,” I agreed. “Big-time.”

Noah came with me to work again. He was quieter today, looking around as if seeing things for the ﬁrst time. He frowned on the subway, staying close as the car became so packed we were pressed together like sardines. Outside on the street, he took in some long breaths, muttering something that sounded like “not helping.” Even at this

early hour, the city was bustling, and I knew it would only get worse as the day went along. “How about we go out for dinner tonight?” I asked. “I was going to cook for you.” I shook my head, squeezing his hand. “I don’t want you to cook again. We can go out and relax.” He pursed his lips. “Is Dalgetti’s still around?” “Yes, it is. One of my favorites.” “Okay. Want me to meet you back here?” he asked as we reached my building. “You want to come up?” I asked. He dropped a kiss to my mouth. “I will later. You go be brilliant, and I’ll come back about six?” “I’ll leave early. What are you going to do?” “Oh, I have plans. I’ll stay busy and out of trouble.” He grinned. “I’m honored you’re going to leave early,” he teased. “What time? Five forty-ﬁve?” “I feel badly you’re taking the day o and I’m still going to work,” I admitted. “How about four?” He lifted his eyebrows. “Wow, I’m a bad inﬂuence.” He bent and kissed me, his mouth lingering. “I’ll be here at four. Have a good day.” I watched him walk away, lifting his hand in a jaunty wave before he disappeared around the corner. I stood on the sidewalk for a long time after he was gone. The longing to go with him was strong. To hurry after him and tell him I would spend the day with him instead of the o ce so tempting. His

company was far preferable to what waited for me upstairs. Numbers, questions, and the bottom line. I headed into the building, already feeling tired.

CHAPTER TEN

DANI

y intercom went o , and I hit the button, my eyes glued to my screen. “Hey, Lynn.”

“You have a visitor.” Her voice became mu ed as if she were covering the phone. “A very handsome visitor.” “I’ll be right out.” I finished the sentence I was writing and saved the file. I ran my hand over the skirt of my dress and opened my o ce door. Noah was leaning on the edge of Lynn’s desk, smiling at something she said. He had his arms crossed, his biceps bulging. He wore a dress shirt, the material stretched tight across his shoulders and arms. The light caught his hair, and his engaging smile was wide. His eyes softened as he looked at me, pushing o the desk and crossing to my side. “Hey, Sprout. Am I interrupting? I can wait,” he murmured, brushing a kiss across my cheek. I caught Lynn’s eye. She waved her hand in front of her face, rolling her eyes. “Wow,” she mouthed silently, making me grin. “I can be ready in five. Come in.”

He followed me in, glancing around as I shut down my laptop and got my purse. “Nice o

ce,” he mused. “Very professional.”

I looked around with a shrug. “It’s ﬁne.” “It’s not you.” “Me?” He waved his hand. “There’s nothing of you here. No pictures, no bric-a-brac, nothing that says ‘Dani,’” he explained. “Lynn has pictures on her desk, a candy dish, even a funny little stu ed thing.” He was right. I had never thought of it until he mentioned it. I decided to make light of his observation. “Never occurred to me, I suppose. Maybe I’ll add a picture of you. Lynn can stare at it and drool.” He pursed his lips, ignoring my teasing. “Interesting,” he muttered. “And again, so familiar.” I didn’t know what he meant by that remark, but he let it drop. “You ready for dinner? I’m starving.” He held out his hand, and I took it, tamping down the guilt I felt leaving the o ce this early. I rarely left before seven. “Ready.”

I took a sip of my wine and settled into the comfortable booth. Noah swirled his glass, smiling as he looked at me.

“I love you in blue.” I glanced down at the dress I was wearing. It was one of my favorites, with a full skirt that made me want to twirl when I wore it. The scooped neckline and modest sleeves meant it was acceptable for the o ce, yet I enjoyed wearing it. “Thank you.” “You look a little tired. Bad day?” he asked mildly. “Busy. I wanted to make sure I was prepared for every case scenario.” “What is the process?” “Friday, I present everything to my direct boss and his team. Our findings, recommendations, et cetera. He goes through it and makes his own recommendations.” “Are they often di erent?” “No,” I said proudly. “That’s why I made VP.” “And then?” “The owners are given the complete report. We meet, answer questions, and they decide what routes to take. The price they want to o er, the direction they plan to go, that sort of thing.” “Are you done then?” “With that, yes. My background is in finance, so I have a lot of other duties I handle. Lately, though, the firm has been buying a lot of businesses, especially in the IT and telecommunications area, so I’ve been doing a lot of that work.” “Will you take a break when this is over?”

“I plan to.” He leaned back, resting his arm along the top of the bench. “Good.” “You leave early in the morning?” I asked, trying to keep my voice light. “Yes.” He paused, taking a sip of his wine. “Can I see you this weekend, Dani?” “I’d like that.” He reached across and took my hand. “Me too.”

Wednesday morning, Noah left around four. I was half asleep as he kissed me goodbye, murmuring that he would see me soon and we would talk later. He’d kept me up a lot in the night making love, and I was asleep before he’d shut the door behind himself. A few hours later, I woke up alone, already missing Noah’s presence beside me. The past two days had been free from any sort of strange anxiety, and I was grateful the sudden onset of panic attacks seemed to have stopped. Not once did I have to stop to have a meltdown in the privacy of my o ce. If I felt myself getting tense, I would inhale long, deep breaths and think of him. His texts and funny pictures kept coming all day, and they helped keep me calm and focused. I was sure I was past the terrible episodes. I sat up, remembering how he’d made me promise to eat well and call him if I needed him at all. I knew he was

worried, not as certain as I was that the episodes had passed. I slid from my bed and went to get ready for work. My townhouse felt empty without Noah there, with no sounds of him in the kitchen, no smell of co ee brewing. I knew he had packed a lunch for me, but it wouldn’t be the same today without him beside me on the subway, his hand wrapped around mine. I shook my head to clear it. I needed to stay on track and focus. During the day, I felt myself getting tense more often, but that was normal when I was coming to the end of the long process of putting together everything for an acquisition. I breathed through the anxiety, worked late, and when I got home, called Noah. The cadence of his voice washed over me, relaxing me, and we chatted for over an hour. “I was picking beans for the store this morning, Sprout. It wasn’t as much fun as when you were with me. Gabe isn’t very a ectionate.” I laughed at his drollness. “I had a customer come in and ask if we were going to sell the apple crisp they’d had on Saturday in the store.” “Oh?” I asked. “I told them it was exclusive.” “I see.” “I’m hoping we might serve it again…” His voice trailed o question. “I think we might be able to arrange that.” “Excellent,” he breathed. “I promise great rewards.”

That made me smile. I fell asleep right away but woke up several times in the night. Thursday, I was short-tempered, my anxiety constant. I snapped at Lynn a few times, and even though I apologized right away, I felt bad for being so short with her. Noah called, but his voice didn’t soothe me as much as it usually did, and I kept his call brief. He texted me Thursday night after service to see if I was still awake. I stared at the screen for a moment, then set aside my phone and returned to my laptop. I would rather he think I was asleep than know I was still working. After another restless night, I woke up Friday morning already stressed, putting it down to the fact that we had our final meeting today and I would be in the spotlight. A small voice in my head kept telling me the longer I was away from Noah, the more stressed I seemed to become. Which was silly —I barely knew him. How could he have such an e ect on me? I had to admit, just knowing he was here, waiting for me, had somehow helped me. And when I was with him, his mere presence calmed me. But he wasn’t here now, and he couldn’t stay with me all the time. I was a grown woman, and I could handle this on my own. I was anxious, but it was normal. Everything, I told myself, was fine. Until the middle of the meeting when I was asked a simple question, and I reached for the file to get the answer and realized I had picked up the wrong folder. Panic, hot and terrifying, wrapped around my chest, squeezing. My legs began shaking, my hand gripping the file so tight, the edge cut into my skin, blood welling around the cut.

My brain knew I had the other file—somewhere right here on my desk—it knew I’d done the work and that the answer was only a few inches away. In fact, I knew the answer, but my brain couldn’t seem to communicate that to the rest of my body and I was struck dumb. The only thing that saved me was the fact that Lynn saw the blood, jumped up, pushing a Kleenex into my hand, and rattled o the number since she knew the file almost as well as I did. Her movement jolted me, and I sucked in some much-needed air and lifted my water to my lips, drinking deeply, buying myself a moment to calm, knowing how close I was to losing it in front of these people. My boss, Carl, was in a rare mood, disagreeing with some of my suggestions. He wanted a second draft with his ideas added to the plan. “Make those changes, and we’ll go through it on Monday morning. Then we can present to management.” It happened on occasion, but his changes meant some more long hours at my desk. I had the feeling he wouldn’t like the result but knew not to argue with him. I noted his thoughts and nodded. “I’ll get it done,” I said, noticing how hard my hand trembled. I set down the pen and slid my hands onto my lap under the desk, fisting them tightly. Neither he nor anyone else seemed to notice anything amiss, and after they all filed out of the room, I laid my head down on my desk, almost panting in relief. A bottle of water appeared in front of me, and I swallowed it in grateful gulps. “I think you need a break,” Lynn stated quietly. “Once this is done.”

“Dani, I’ve worked for you since you came to the company four years ago. You’ve never taken a break. You work all the time.” She paused, crossing her arms, tapping her fingers in agitation. “Do you know how much vacation time you’ve accrued? I won’t even mention your unused sick time and paid holidays.” “I’m going to take some time o .” “Good. I don’t know what you did on the weekend, but you were like the old Dani on Monday—even Tuesday, you were fine. But since then…” “What?” “I don’t know how to describe it. You look…unwell. Did you break up with Noah?” “What? No,” I insisted. “He lives out of town, so I can only see him on occasion.” “Hmm.” “What does ‘hmm’ mean?” I snapped. “You seemed better when he was around. Maybe he had something to do with it.” I held up my hand. I wasn’t going to share my personal life with her. “Enough. I’m fine.” She regarded me for a moment. “Will you make it until next week?” I pushed back my hair, feeling annoyed. I was used to handling things on my own. It was bad enough Noah fussed over me because of this embarrassing glitch. I didn’t need my assistant doing the same thing. I simply needed to toughen up. “I’m fine, Lynn. I didn’t sleep much last night. I

never do before one of these meetings. I’ll catch up tonight and be back to normal on Monday.” “I’m worried—” I interrupted her. “I said I’m ﬁne. Drop it.” “Fine. But I’m watching you,” she hu ed and left my o shutting the door with more force than necessary.

ce,

I paced around my o ce, feeling upset and embarrassed. My stomach twisted, and I had to concentrate on my breathing as I felt my pulse begin to race. I hurried to the bathroom, splashing cold water on my face and running it over my wrists as I inhaled long, deep breaths. I examined my face in the mirror, noting the circles under my eyes and the paleness of my skin. I looked older than my years and weary. I shook my head. I should be able to handle this. I’d handled stress and pressure my whole career. I’d been on my own since I was eighteen and could look after myself, so why were things suddenly so di erent? Why was this happening? My phone rang, and I slipped it out of my pocket. “Hello.” “Hey, Sprout.” I felt the swell of relief simply hearing his voice. I closed my eyes, sat down and exhaled. “Noah.” “You okay?” “I’m ﬁne.” “I called last night. It went to voice mail,” he sighed. “You didn’t call back this morning. I was worried.”

“I went to bed early and had the ringer o ,” I ﬁbbed. “I was crazy busy getting ready for the meeting today. I didn’t have time.” “Oh.” The one word clearly stated he didn’t believe me. He waited for me to speak, then when I didn’t, kept talking. “How did the meeting go?” “Okay,” I said, omitting the panic and the exhaustion I was still feeling. “A few adjustments needed.” “Oh.” He paused. “So, what now?” I laughed, the sound brittle to my own ears. “I work and get them done.” He was silent for a moment. “You worked every day this week. Every night after I left. Can’t you give yourself a break?” I rubbed my face. “Maybe. I don’t know.” “I was hoping to see you tonight…or tomorrow.” I massaged my temple, a headache slowly brewing behind my eyes. “Not tonight. I’ve got to tackle this and get it done. He wants it for Monday.” “Maybe tomorrow, then?” His voice dropped. “I miss you.” I hesitated. “I don’t know.” “Dani, are you sure you’re okay? Your voice sounds strange.” “I’m ﬁne, Noah. I’m busy, that’s all.” “I’m aware of that fact,” he soothed. “You really have to work all weekend?”

I sighed, pushing down the desire to tell him how much I missed him as well and that I’d work all night so I could come spend the afternoon with him again. I didn’t know if I could make that promise. “I might have to.” “So, no apple crisp this weekend. Our customers will be disappointed.” I was on my feet, irrational anger coursing through my veins. “Really, Noah? That’s why you called? You’re worried about the fact that your restaurant won’t have dessert? Like I don’t have enough on my plate to worry about without feeling I’m letting you down as well?” “Dani—” I cut him o . “I’m stretched tight here. I can’t drop everything and come and make apple crisp for you!” “I know that. I was only teasing. Obviously, it was bad timing on my end. I don’t want to cause you any more stress,” he replied in a calm voice. “You’re not letting me down.” “I feel like it.” I heard his long sigh. When he spoke, his voice was gentle. “Did you…did you have another attack today, baby?” “Why?” I snapped. “Because the only reason I’m angry is because I must have? Not because you keep pushing me all the time?” “I don’t.” “Yes, you do.” “Dani, I didn’t call you to argue with you.”

“No, you called to see if I’d bake for you.” “I called to see if you were okay. Obviously, you’re having a bad day, and I’ve only made it worse. I don’t care if you ever make apple crisp for the restaurant again. I care that you’re killing yourself with the stress you’re trying to deal with,” he stated, anger evident in his voice now. “Well, not all of us can play in the mud. Some of us have no choice but to work for a living.” “Stop it. We aren’t doing this,” he hissed. “Now all you want is a ﬁght. You want a reason to be mad, and I won’t give it to you.” “Too late.” “I’m coming in, and we’re going to talk.” “Don’t bother.” “Dani—” I hung up.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

DANI

sat at my table, playing with the handle of my mug, my barely touched co ee having gone cold. I stared unseeing out the window, my chest feeling heavy, my body aching. I was tired. So very tired. After hanging up on Noah, I’d channeled all my anger and shut o my feelings, throwing myself into work. When I looked up again, it was past ten and I was the only one left in the o ce. I shut down my computer, hoping I had done everything Carl had instructed. I would double-check my work and send everything to him on Sunday. He could review it on Monday, and the ﬁnal proposal would be presented to upper management. It was almost over. Then I came home to a dark, empty house, riddled with guilt for hanging up on Noah and unsure if I should call him. I considered taking the coward’s way out and texting him an apology, but that seemed wrong. He deserved better. My head ached, and I rubbed my temples, staring out into the darkness. I was such a bitch to Noah on the phone. He was right—I was upset and scared, and I took it out on him. I wanted to tell him how much I needed him, beg him to come in and be with

me, knowing how his presence helped to keep me calm. I should have told him that I would work this evening and come out in the morning and bake apple crisp because I enjoyed doing it and I wanted to do it for him. I needed him so much, it frightened me. I hadn’t needed anyone in so long, and it happened so fast. I felt so much for him in such a short time, and I didn’t know how to handle it —so I pushed him away. My phone buzzed, and I looked at the screen. A picture waited for me—a box sitting on my doorstep, the logo familiar. The words “Please open the door and get me” were on my screen. I hesitated, and it buzzed again. Please. I made my way to the door and pulled it open, looking down at the container and the logo on the top. Harvest Table. Noah. I looked around, but I couldn’t see him. He must have dropped it o and left. Feeling disappointed, I lifted the box and went back inside, my legs suddenly shaky. I slid down, my back to the door, staring at the box. My phone buzzed again. I made it for you. It’s your favorite. My hand trembled as I lifted the lid.

Nestled in the box, the vibrant colors exploding against the brown cardboard, was the roasted beet salad—the one he’d made for me the first day. He even taped a fork to the lid. My stomach grumbled in anticipation, reminding me I hadn’t eaten since my bagel early this morning. Please. Eat. I blinked away the moisture in my eyes and lifted the fork, looking at the work of art in the box. I knew it would be amazing—the taste would be tart and sweet, creamy, and crunchy. It would be perfect. Made for me by someone who cared—who cared so much he made this for me, drove all this way late in the evening, risking rejection and more of my ill-placed anger, but came anyway. My tears spilled over, and a loud sob escaped my mouth. Noah’s strained voice came through the door. “Don’t cry, Dani. Please.” Pushing the box o my lap, I scrambled to my feet, flinging open the door. Noah stood there, his hands in his pockets, staring at me. He looked tired, worried, and distraught. He spoke first. “I’m sorry I upset you. I do push too hard sometimes.” I shook my head furiously. “No, I’m sorry. I overreacted, and I said things…I shouldn’t have. Please forgive me,” I sobbed. “I’m so sorry.” I was in his arms in a second, pulled tight to his chest. Wrapping my arms around his neck, I held him as he lifted me up, carrying me inside, and shut the door with his foot, murmuring apologies the whole time. He ran his hands up

and down my back in soothing strokes. “Shh, Dani. It’s okay.” “It’s not,” I hiccupped. “I’m not like this. I don’t get mad at people and be mean. I don’t pick ﬁghts. I don’t let stress get to me and make me weak.” I brushed the tears from my face roughly. “You must think I’m some sort of pathetic joke.” He sti ened and drew back, cupping my face. “That’s what you think? That you’re pathetic? You think that’s how I see you?” I sni ed, not even able to look him in the eye. “I don’t know.” “Hey. Look at me.” Slowly, I raised my gaze to his. “You aren’t a joke or pathetic. That isn’t what I think at all.” He tightened his hands on my face. “You’re wonderful, sweet, warm… You’re so amazing to me.” He hesitated. “And you’re struggling. I understand struggling, Dani.” “How?” “I’ve been there.” “You keep saying that, but you never explain it. I don’t understand.” He leaned his forehead on mine. “I’ll tell you.” “Now?” His lips grazed my skin. “Now.”

NOAH I walked around the room, pacing. I wanted Dani to eat, but she refused to until I told her my story. I was so worried about her—she was so pale and the circles under her eyes, dark. She looked exhausted. The changes in her from when I left a couple of days ago shocked me. I wasn’t sure she was ready to hear what I had to say, but I had to try. I had to tell her. “I grew up on the farm. I was the youngest and, I think, the most spoiled. Life was pretty simple. We went to school, did our chores. We all worked on the farm. When we were old enough, we got a part-time job in the summer, but the farm was still a priority.” I chuckled. “Well, except for me. Gabe and Callie were both happy with their lives and being part of the farm. I wanted more.” “More?” “I was a bit of an accident—there’re four years between Callie and me. My outlook wasn’t like theirs. I didn’t even go to the same school they had. The kids I hung out with had di erent upbringings than me and working on a farm wasn’t on their radar, and it rubbed o . I loved the farm…but I wanted to know what else was out there. I loved going to the city and seeing the buildings and cars—the smells were di erent, the bustle appealed to me. Much to my parents’ disappointment, when I was old enough, I not only got one part-time job in the summer, I got two others. I did my chores, and I worked. I saved and saved, worked as much as I could, and kept my grades up so I could go to university with a scholarship.” “Most parents would be proud of their child for doing that.”

“Oh, they were. They also realized I wanted a di erent path, and they supported me. Gabe wanted to stay on the farm and do what my dad did. Callie wanted to get married, have kids, and open her own restaurant—she always loved to cook.” I exhaled a gust of air. “I wanted to get the hell o the farm and live in the city. Wear a suit and tie. Have lots of money. I wanted all the trappings.” “From what you said before, it sounds like you got it.” “I did. I busted my ass, took extra courses, graduated early, and got a job as soon as I left university.” “What did you do?” “Marketing and sales.” “And you were good?” “I was the best. I worked at one of the largest advertising agencies in the country—they recruited me, and I worked my way up the ladder fast. I had it all. I was young, I made a ton of money, lived in a fancy condo, wore expensive suits, dated a lot of pretty women…” I trailed o , realizing how that sounded. “Um, sorry.” Dani smiled and waved her hand. “That’s hardly a surprise, Noah. I mean, look at you.” I sat beside her, leaning over and kissing her sweet mouth. “It’s part of my past. I wasn’t a manwhore or anything. I’ve never been like that. But I enjoyed playing the ﬁeld.” Reaching over, I wrapped my hand around hers. “Until I met Bonnie. We became a couple. I was pretty serious about her —at least, I thought I was.” “You thought?”

“She wasn’t the right one for me, and I only stayed with her because it was easier than breaking up. It took me a while, but I realized she was beautiful to look at, with nothing underneath. No substance, as I found out.” “I’m sorry.” “I’m not. It was for the best in the end.” “I see. Obviously, something changed?” I had to walk again. Simply thinking about that dark time of my life made me tense. “Life happened. Reality happened. I had worked my way through school without a break, then I started at the agency right after. I never took vacations—I rarely took a whole weekend. It was all about my career. I lived, ate, and breathed business. I worked all the time—even at home. I was connected to the phone or the laptop all the time.” She shifted a little, and I wondered if she saw the parallels between us. “What happened?” she asked quietly. “I pushed too hard and overextended myself. I started having panic attacks, not that I knew what they were when they started. I’d feel anxious and upset, sometimes I’d break out in a sweat, but I shrugged it o as nothing, thinking it would pass.” “But it didn’t.” “No, it got worse.” “Did you tell anyone?”

“No. Not even Bonnie knew. I hid it. I went to the doctor, and he gave me some pills to take, suggested I try relaxing a little.” I snorted. “I ignored his advice and relied on the pills too much. I was a bomb waiting to explode.” “And it did?” “It got worse. The panic attacks were constant. I started having heart palpitations, I couldn’t sleep or eat, and I lost a lot of weight. I was so scared, and I felt like I was trapped. I didn’t know what to do or who to talk to.” “Why didn’t you tell someone?” I laughed. “Who was I going to tell? The doctor I had was happy just to give me refills on prescriptions, my girlfriend didn’t seem to notice or bother as long as I took her to the restaurants she liked and bought her presents, my boss only cared that I got my job done, and I had essentially abandoned my family.” I shook my head. “I had turned my back on their way of life, basically telling them it wasn’t good enough for me. I didn’t even have a close friend I could turn to. I got too busy for personal relationships. The one person I was closest to was my assistant, and our relationship was based on our working connection—not personal. I didn’t think I had anyone I could talk to.” “Oh, Noah. You must have been so terrified.” “At times, I was. Then one day, I had an attack so intense, I passed out. My assistant, Tom, found me on the floor beside my desk, out cold. My head bounced o the desk pretty hard. He thought I’d had a heart attack or something, and when I woke up, I was in the hospital. My whole family was there, and so was Bonnie.” “And you told them?”

I shut my eyes, remembering their reaction as the dam burst. “I told them everything.” “How did they react?” I smiled ruefully as I recalled their reactions. “You’ve met most of them, Dani. It was like a call to arms. I expected them to tell me I deserved it, but of course, they didn’t. They rallied around me, insisting they would help get me back on my feet.” “And your, ah, girlfriend?” I sat down in front of her, pushing a loose curl from her face. I wrapped the thick strand around my ﬁnger, rubbing the silky texture and letting it slip back into place. “My mom and Callie refused to leave me, but they went to get some co ee while the rest of them went to the hotel for the night. Bonnie dumped me as soon as we were alone.” Dani gasped. “She dumped you?” “She was embarrassed that her boyfriend could be so weak. She thought, and I’m quoting her here, I ‘had more backbone than that.’ She was very disappointed in me.” I tapped my chin. “She told me she would have been so much happier if I’d had a heart attack. That, at least, was easier to explain to people.” “Bitch,” she seethed. “You weren’t weak. You were overwhelmed and sick! You needed support!” I stared at her meaningfully. She looked away, biting her lip. “This isn’t about me,” she murmured. I shook my head. She was so wrong about that. “How did you end up where you are?”

“I was put on medical leave—e ective immediately. My blood pressure was through the roof, my levels all o . Basically, I was a mess and one step away from the heart attack Bonnie wished I would have had. I went to the farm with my family. I was still stupid enough, I thought I’d rest for a while, get my strength back, and in a few weeks, I’d return to my life.” I smirked at Dani. “Minus the soulsucking girlfriend.” “But that didn’t happen.” “No. I discovered something when I was home. I found myself in the ﬁelds, working—out in the sun, running. I heard the quiet. Saw the beauty I’d never bothered to look at before. No panic attacks, no anxiety. I relaxed and remembered how much I loved being with my family. I got to know my niece and nephews more.” I stopped abruptly, feeling emotional. Dani got up and came over, wrapping her arms around my waist. “Tell me,” she whispered. “I had an appointment to see my doctor—the one who had been looking after me in the hospital. The day I was supposed to go and see him—the day I’d been looking forward to, since it meant I could return to my life, arrived. But instead of feeling happy, the way I thought I’d feel, I only felt dread. I had another attack in my parents’ kitchen. A big one.” I drew in a deep breath. “Once I calmed down, I started to talk—really talk to my parents and, eventually, the rest of my family. I realized I didn’t want that life anymore.” Dani’s arms tightened. “You had an epiphany.” “My dad asked me a question. One simple question. He asked me to think of my happiest moment in the past year. One happy moment. I couldn’t come up with one. Then he asked

me the happiest moment in the past three weeks. I couldn’t come up with just one.” “So, you stayed.” Turning, I pulled her into my arms. “Well, there’s more to it than that, but yes, I did. I changed my life and found peace. Happiness. A real sense of purpose.” I kissed her temple, nuzzling her hair. “And you.” She snuggled closer. “Noah.” “I just found you, Dani. I can’t lose you.” Tilting her head back, she frowned up at me. “You see yourself in me.” “Yes.” “Noah, it’s di erent for me. I’m not under the same stresses you were. This deal has been rougher than most, but once it’s done, I’ll be fine.” “And if it’s not?” “It will be.” She wrapped herself around me again. “I’ll be fine—promise.” I shut my eyes, fighting back the desire to shake her until she saw how similar the situations were. How close to the edge she was getting, and how scared I was she would fall over it and I wouldn’t be there to catch her. She was spiraling out of control fast, but she couldn’t see it. I had witnessed a couple of her episodes and they were scary to watch, and I knew they were mild compared to some of the ones she had. Things were going to get worse before they got better. All I could do was be there for her and hope she saw sense before

it was too late. The more I pushed her, the deeper she would dig in her heels. I knew that from experience. “Will you let me take you to the doctor’s next week—just to be checked out?” If I could get her in, maybe she would listen to someone with a medical degree. “I won’t push it until your meeting is done, but I need to take you once it is over.” I pulled her closer. “Please, Dani. For me.” “Would it make you feel better?” “Immensely.” “Okay. I’ll call the clinic.” “Um, I have a great doctor. He’d, ah, ﬁt you in.” She frowned up at me. “Something you want to tell me?” “He’s a customer. I asked—that’s all. I just asked.” “Okay.” I looked down at her. “One more thing.” “What?” “Let me help you through the next few days. You seem to be calmer when I’m around.” “I am.” “Will you let me do that?” “I kind of already have plans for tomorrow.” “Oh.” She smiled up at me. “I have apple crisp to make for my favorite stock boy.” “Are you sure?”

She nodded. “I’ll take tomorrow and work Sunday. I’m almost done.” “Can I come back with you on Sunday?” “Will your mom give you a note again?” I chuckled. “It was open-ended.” “Okay, then.” I kissed her head. “Okay. Now—you eat.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

NOAH

ani hummed in appreciation as she closed the lid on her salad. “That was delicious.”

“Good.” “Did you always cook, like Callie?” “My mom taught us all to cook. She wanted to make sure we could look after ourselves, and I enjoyed it, but my real love of it came later. After I made the decision to leave my life and come back to the farm, I saw a therapist for a while. He suggested I ﬁnd an outlet, something I enjoyed. I saw an ad for cooking classes, and I signed up. I realized I really loved it—learning the way herbs made food taste, how bringing ingredients together made a dish.” “So, you opened the restaurant?” I laughed and tweaked her nose. “Always so anxious for information.” She smiled shyly. “I just want to know you.” Cupping her face, I drew her closer and kissed her soft mouth. “I want you to know me.”

“Then talk.” I took another drink of wine and set down the glass. “My dad always farmed organically. He believed in keeping things as natural as possible. When I came home, I stayed with my parents while my house was being built, and one day my old assistant, Tom, came to see me. He stayed for lunch, which I cooked, and my mom had made bread and we had some of her preserves. He raved over both, and she gave him some jam to take home. He called a few days later and asked if he could buy some as gifts, and I said I’d ask her.” I smirked at Dani. “That started me thinking.” “I bet it did.” I laughed and kissed her hand. “I found out my family was struggling, and I wanted to do something to change that. We had all this land. I had a lot of money and time on my hands.” At her inquisitive look, I explained. “I made a lot of money while I was working, and I was very good with investments. A couple of my long shots paid o , and I was set for life.” “Wow.” I nodded. “It was never only about the money for me. It was what I thought I wanted…until I didn’t want it anymore.” I shrugged. “When I discovered my family was thinking of selling o land, I knew I had to do something. The farm and the work they did meant too much to all of them.” I looked down at her hand, playing with her tiny ﬁngers. “I wanted to atone.” “You had nothing to atone for, Noah. You were living your life.”

“That’s what they said, but it was how I felt. How I still feel.” I drew in a deep breath. “I turned my back on them, but they never stopped loving me. When I needed them the most, they were there for me, and I was determined to be there for them.” “And you were.” “Yes.” “Tell me more.” “So, I started researching, and I came up with all these ideas about how to make the farm more proﬁtable. We started small with the store. We revamped the farm and the crops, adding more vegetables and herbs, and became certiﬁed organic growers. I marketed to companies looking for organic suppliers to bring in more revenue. When our cousins found the land in Niagara, I invested in it, knowing we needed to be able to o er organic fruits as well. Anna’s husband was into wines and the property had vines already, and he started that enterprise. We all brought strengths to the mix, and I was good at making sure we used them. Tom talked so much about the bread and jam he had, we started carrying both in the store. And then one day, I said we should open a restaurant, featuring our own produce, right next to the store. Farm-to-table was becoming more popular, and we had room to expand.” “So, you did more research?” I grinned at her. “I did. And my marketing experience helped not only getting the store name out, but the restaurant as well. The store opened two years ago, the restaurant a year ago, and we hit the ground running. We’re in the black, and I’ll make sure it stays that way. We’ll grow and adapt.”

“You love it.” “My family is together. We’re happy and healthy, and we’re all doing something we love and believe in. We work our lives around the farm, store, and restaurant. Our playtime is in the winter when the store is quiet and the restaurant is only open on Friday and Saturday. We hire local kids, and we support the community. What’s not to love?” “The store is open in the winter as well?” “We have greenhouses. We don’t have everything, but enough to keep our suppliers and regular customers happy. It’s too far o the beaten track for many walk-ins for the restaurant, so we keep limited hours for our regulars. We close the store and restaurant just before Christmas and reopen in March so we all get a break.” “You do a lot of di erent things.” “I actually spend most of my time behind the scenes. But I enjoy being in the store and restaurant—I get to talk to customers and hear their feedback. It’s invaluable to our business.” I shook my head in disbelief. “I wasn’t even supposed to be in the store that day. But we’re always short as the kids are getting ready to head back to school, and everyone else had too much on their plate, so I said I’d man the fort, so to speak.” “Thank goodness.” “You might have been having this conversation with Taylor,” I teased. “If he got his paycheck and could borrow his mom’s minivan to come see you.” Dani laughed. “I’m glad you were there.” “Me too.”

“How long ago did you come back?” “Four years ago.” I wrapped my hand around hers. “What about you, Dani. How long have you been here?” “Six years.” I hesitated. I knew a few things—I knew she was an only child and had lost her parents in her teens, but that was about all. She was very private and reluctant to talk about her past. I knew a lot about her life now, but I wanted to know about her life growing up. “Have you always worked for the company?” “Yes. I started right after graduation and worked my way up.” “You never talk about your parents.” “My parents were in a car accident when I was fifteen.” I held her hand tighter. “I’m sorry.” “I lived with my aunt until I went to university. She was older, on a fixed income, and wasn’t really prepared to have a teenager around, but she was kind. I worked to help with the additional bills. She refused to use the small amount of money my parents left me—she said it was for my education. They had never planned ahead very much so there wasn’t a lot, but it helped a little.” “Are you still close?” “She passed away the year I started school.” She swallowed. She was totally alone. I hated knowing how alone she was, but it also confirmed she needed me—and my family—even more than I thought. She wasn’t going to be alone again.

“I’m sure she was proud of you.” “I hope so.” “So, you went to school and worked?” She nodded. “I had a scholarship, and I worked part time. I lived in the dorms and ate cheap noodles and popcorn—just like lots of other kids. I had a good roommate, and she took me home with her on holidays. In the summers, I would nanny or be a live-in housekeeper. I did okay.” She shrugged. “I started working as soon as I was ﬁnished school.” I started to ask her another question, but she shook her head. “I don’t want to talk about me right now, okay?” “Okay, baby. I just want to know about you too, you know?” She nodded. “I’ll tell you more on the weekend.” “Okay.” I had pushed enough for now. Her brow furrowed. “I’ve never asked you… I mean, we’ve never discussed…but how old are you?” I smiled at her. “I’m thirty-four, Dani. Six years older than you.” “Five.” “I thought you were twenty-eight?” She bit her lip. “I’ll be twenty-nine next week.” “What day?” “Saturday.” “Were you going to tell me?”

“I don’t usually celebrate my birthday. It’s just another day.” I slid closer, dragging her to my chest. “Your birthday is a great reason to celebrate, Dani. One of the best I can think of.” “Really, it’s not important…” I tapped her lips with my finger. “Enough of that. How about we go away? The two of us for the weekend, and I’ll celebrate you.” “But the restaurant—” I cut her o . “John is a great cook as well. He’ll cover for me. Ella will help too. We all pitch in when needed, Dani. Ella and I do service and wait tables when John and Callie need a break. Gabe loves being out front—he charms all the women with his muscles and smiles.” She chuckled. “I see.” Running my finger over her plump bottom lip, I smiled. “I want to take you away. Just us. I’ll celebrate you over and over.” She kissed the end of my finger and shook her head. “How are you not taken by some young buxom country girl, Noah? How did I get so lucky?” “I was waiting for you, Ms. Rawlins.” “I don’t even know what to say to that.” “It’s true. When I first came back, I was too busy getting well again. I had to focus on myself and fixing me, fixing my relationship with my family. Then I got busy with the farm, the store, the restaurant.” I ran my finger down her cheek.

“No one caught my eye or interested me, Dani. I went out a couple of times, but nothing ever felt right. You feel right— we feel right.” “I know,” she whispered. “I love my family. I love being with them, but I’ve always felt like something was missing. I’m always the ﬁfth wheel. But with you—for the ﬁrst time in so long, I’m not alone. I feel complete when I’m with you.” I swallowed, my throat feeling tight. “I know it’s fast, but it’s how I feel.” “So do I.” “Good. Then next weekend—yes? You’ll let me take you away?” “Yes,” she answered, then yawned, desperately trying to cover it up behind her hand. I stood, lifting her. “Come on, Sprout. We need to go to bed. You have apple crisp to make tomorrow and an even more daunting task after that.” “What?” “Meeting my parents.” Her eyes widened in alarm. “Your parents? Oh God, what if they don’t like me?” “Not a chance. They’re going to love you.” She leaned her head on my chest, and I kissed her hair as we made our way to her bedroom. “Noah?” “Hmmm?”

“Thank you for coming to me, again.” I sat her on the edge of her bed, bending down and looking at her. “I’ll always come to you, Dani. You’re not alone anymore.” She ﬂung her arms around my neck and drew me to her sweet mouth. I lifted her to the middle of the bed and showed her how not alone she was now. Twice.

Dani slept tight to my side all night. She was so exhausted she didn’t move until I slid from bed to go make co ee and breakfast. Her eyes blinked open, and she smiled at me. “You are here. It wasn’t a dream.” I bent over and kissed her tempting mouth. “Nope. I’m here. You’re stuck with me.” She looked almost shy as she dropped her gaze to the sheets, picking at the edge with her ﬁngers. “I like being stuck with you.” I covered her hand with mine and waited until she met my eyes. “Good. Now I’m going to make breakfast, and we’ll head to the farm. We’ll leave your car and take the truck, yeah? You okay with that?” “You’re really coming back with me?” “Yes.” “Okay, then.” I kissed her. “Good.”

A short while later, we pulled up outside my house, and I groaned. “Brace yourself, Sprout.” “Why?” I indicated the golf cart parked by the porch. “My mother’s already here, no doubt lying in wait.” She bit her lip, looking worried. Laughing, I grabbed her hand, pulling her out of the truck. “I’m teasing. She’s bringing you all the stu for your baking. Not lying in wait…I think.” We walked in with Dani tucked into my side. My mom was in the kitchen, peeling apples. There was a huge bowl of peaches as Dani had requested as well. Mom’s face broke into a wide grin when she saw us. “Hello, you two. I thought I’d help Dani by peeling the apples for her. Save her some time so she could relax a little today.” She smiled kindly at Dani. “I understand you have a busy week ahead of you, dear.” Laughing, I bent down and kissed my mom’s cheek. “Nice try, Nosy Parker. You’ve been waiting to meet my girl. I’m onto you.” She didn’t even deny it. “Are you going to introduce me?” I reached for Dani, dragging her close. “Mom, this is my Dani. Dani, this nosy woman is my mother, Kris.” Dani’s eyes widened, but my mom simply smiled, ignored Dani’s outstretched hand, and pulled her in for a hug. I had to blink away the moisture when I saw Dani’s reaction to being hugged. She sti ened at the unexpected contact, then suddenly, she was hugging my mom back. My mom murmured something and drew back, cupping Dani’s face. “I’m so happy to meet you, my dear. My entire family has

been singing your praises all week. Especially this one.” She tilted her head in my direction. “But he didn’t do you justice.” She cupped Dani’s cheek. “Noah,” she scolded. “She’s so pretty. You never said how pretty she was!” Dani’s cheeks became redder, and I pulled her to my side, kissing her warm cheek. “Stop embarrassing her, Mom. I told you she was the prettiest girl I’d ever seen. You were just too busy planning the wedding to listen.” Dani gasped, and both Mom and I laughed. “Teasing, Sprout.” Mom shook her head. “Leave the poor girl alone, Noah. You go bother your sister and schmooze the customers. I’m going to help Dani and tell her as many stories as I can so she has something to hold over you. Keep you in line.” “But, Mom,” I protested. “I’m your favorite.” “Not really.” She waved her hand. “I always preferred your sister. But you were so homely, I let you think that.” I sputtered a little, and Dani started laughing. “Dani thinks I’m good-looking.” “Well then, she’s a keeper, isn’t she?” “Yeah, she is,” I agreed, my voice soft. “A deﬁnite keeper.” My mom winked and linked arms with Dani. “You can leave now, Noah. Dani is going to show me how she makes the infamous apple crisp Gabe has been going on about all week.” She ﬁxed me with a stern look. “And we’ll be joining you for dinner tonight.”

“I’ll tell Callie.” “She knows. I already told her what I want you to make. And your father was pretty ticked you ate the second piece of dessert last week instead of saving it for him. You better make it good.” “Oh.” I’d inherited my sweet tooth from my father, who constantly lamented that neither his wife nor daughter could bake. He was going to adore Dani—and her baking skills. “You better listen to your mother, Noah,” Dani teased. “I guess you’ll have to forgo your piece tonight.” I sidled up to her, burying my face into her neck, kissing and swirling my tongue over her soft skin. “Or maybe, you could make extra? I can make my mom peel more apples.” I lowered my voice, pressing my mouth to her ear. “I’d make sure you were well rewarded, Sprout.” I nibbled the sensitive spot behind her ear. “Very well rewarded.” She shivered. “I’ll see what I can do.” Grinning, I walked to the door, glancing behind me. My two favorite women stood together, smiling at me. My chest warmed at seeing them together, and lifting my hand, I blew them both a kiss, beaming as I left, knowing I’d see them both in just a few hours.

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

DANI

few hours later, I was at Noah’s parents’ house. Kris had insisted we go there once I was done and we had cleaned up. Their place was older, a large farmhouse with a screened-in porch. The house was nestled on a hill that overlooked the farm. Inside, overhead fans cooled the air, and the wide, well-worn planks squeaked underfoot in the living room. It was homey and warm, with comfortable furniture, tons of pictures, and a huge table with a dozen chairs. I could only imagine the family dinners that happened around it. We had spent the morning baking together. Well, Kris helped and I baked. She was a great assistant, but Noah was right; she couldn’t follow a recipe and bake something sweet. She had baked bread for so long, she didn’t use recipes, going by touch and smell. I had to stop her from adding twice the amount of baking powder to the cake mixture as the recipe called for. I watched in horror as she turned a ball of pie crust into cement with just a few rolls of her hands. She looked at me askance. “I did it again, didn’t I?” She held up her hands. “Weapons of destruction, Noah would say.”

I laughed. “Maybe I’ll handle the dough.” “Good idea.” My plan had been to make baked apple dumplings for the family with the leftover apples we didn’t use. I thought we’d serve them with caramel sauce. “What do they do for dessert other nights?” I asked her. “They o er a cheese board, or we have homemade ice cream. Noah gets organic oatmeal cookies brought in to serve with it, but he liked having something special to o er on Saturdays,” she explained. “He thinks he’s hit the jackpot with your skills.” I blushed at her words. I thought I was the lucky one and hit the jackpot with him, but I refrained from telling her that. After the pastry disaster, she simply handed me the ingredients I asked for. She was droll and funny, and she shared lots of stories about her kids, especially Noah, with me. He was obviously a handful growing up and was spoiled by everyone. Some of the antics she shared made me laugh so hard, I had tears in my eyes. Yet, he had become an amazing man, and she didn’t hide how proud she was of him, or any of her kids. She adored her grandchildren, loving the fact that she got to spend so much time with them. I peered at a framed portrait on the wall. “Is this Noah?” I asked, shocked, studying the picture closely. She looked over my shoulder. “Yes. We’d convinced him to come for a family photo when the kids were still young. Hardly looks like him, doesn’t it?” I shook my head. He was thinner, his shoulders not as broad. His hair was short and slicked away from his face. He looked serious, and the rigid set of his shoulders was out of place

with the rest of his family. Even though he was younger, he seemed older, somber, and unhappy. His eyes were dull, his pallor evident, and his smile forced. His suit and tie were at odds with the more casual look of his family. He stood to one side, as if unsure where he belonged. “I prefer this one,” she murmured, handing me another framed picture. “It was taken a few years ago, but what a di erence. And I’m not talking about how the kids have grown.” She was right. Noah was in the center of this photo, his niece and nephews in front of him. He wore jeans and a tight shirt, his physique more like what I saw now. His hair was longer, his smile bright. He looked happy and peaceful. Filled with joy and surrounded by love. I had to swallow the lump in my throat. “He looks like Noah.” She nodded, a sad look crossing her face. “We almost lost him. But he found his way home and back to us. Back to the life he loved.” She smiled as she wiped away the dust on the top edge of the frame. “He simply forgot how to live for a while.” She linked her arm with mine. “I have sandwiches. Then we can take the desserts to the restaurant and have tea. If Noah lets you out of his sight for that long.” I laughed. He’d dropped by the house twice while we were baking and pouted when his mom informed him we were having lunch together then shooed him back to work. She smiled at me. “I’m glad he met you, Dani. He can help you remember how to live too.” She pulled me along. “Let’s eat on the deck. I love the sunshine there.”

I followed, wondering what she meant, and why the words gave me comfort.

Later that night, Noah’s dad, Henry, sat back, running a hand over his stomach. “That was the best apple dumpling I’ve ever tasted. And your peach upside-down cake? That crisp? Heaven on a plate, Dani.” He had tried everything, coming back for seconds on the crisp. “I’m glad you liked it.” “Liked it? I’m ready to exchange Callie for you.” Everyone at the table laughed as Callie pouted. “It’s true,” he insisted. “Noah can still cook, but now I ﬁnally have a baker in the family? Yeah…I love you, Callie my girl, but you need to pack your bags.” I smiled at his words and Callie’s over-the-top screech of indignation. My heart beat a little faster when he included me as part of the family—as if it were a given. It made me realize I wanted it to be true. His parents grinned at each other, their adoration evident. His mother had soft brown hair scattered with gray. She kept it short, and it curled around her face, highlighting her gentle brown eyes. His dad’s hair was gray but still thick, and his eyes the same green color as his son. They were both tall people, and his dad was in great shape, his shoulders still broad and strong. His laughter reminded me of Noah, but he had his mom’s smile. Both were a ectionate with each other

and their children and grandchildren alike. It was lovely to see. Noah’s family kidded and joked with one another the whole evening, his parents joining in often. His niece and nephews joined us for dinner but got bored and sat at another table once they’d dished up massive helpings of the dessert. They were all smart, funny kids, but far more interested in their own world than that of their parents, uncle, or grandparents. Noah told me they would head over to their grandparents’ soon to watch a movie. The love they all had for one another was evident, but it didn’t stop the constant teasing and stories from happening. I loved every second of it. I also loved sitting beside Noah, his arm draped across the back of my chair, his ﬁngers tracing lazy circles on my shoulder. Not at all shy at showing his a ection, he would lean over, dropping gentle kisses to my cheek, head, and shoulder, smiling when I would lean into his caress. Both he and his father were e usive in their praise for my desserts, making me blush. I had enjoyed my time with his mother. She was as warm and open as Noah. I had been nervous about meeting Henry—as he insisted I call him—but it didn’t take me long to see where Noah got his charm from. Henry and Kris adored their children and grandkids, and it was easy to see the feelings were returned tenfold. They all made me welcome, and I felt more relaxed than I had been since last week. “Is there any dessert left?” Henry asked. “There are some dumplings in the kitchen,” I assured him. “Henry, you’ll give yourself a stomachache.”

“For later, woman. A man needs to prepare for the future.” Kris rolled her dumplings?”

eyes.

“Your

future

contains

apple

He winked at me, looking mischievous. “It does now.” Noah scowled at him. “I never agreed to sending you home with dumplings, Dad. Those are the property of the restaurant. Therefore, I call dibs.” “I own the land on which the restaurant is located. Therefore, I call mine,” Henry shot back. “I have enough for both of you,” I interjected. Noah grinned. “Perfect.” Henry chuckled. “She’s a keeper. For sure.” Noah’s hand tightened on my shoulder. “I agree.” After dinner, it was such a nice night, Noah and I walked back to his place. Holding hands, we strolled down the narrow road, the sounds of the country all around us. Crickets and night owls, the sound of the breeze rustling through the ﬁelds and trees—the gentle noise was music to my ears. I hummed in contentment when Noah stopped, wrapped his arm around my waist, and tucked me into his chest, nuzzling my head. “I told you my parents would adore you.” “They’re great, Noah. Your whole family is.” “Do you ﬁnd them overwhelming? I can forbid them access. Tell them you’re not baking anymore.” I giggled. “Not sure that would work. I think they’d see through your plan. Especially your dad.”

“I think you have a big fan there.” I pressed a kiss to his scru . “I’m a big fan of his son.” “Yeah?” “Huge.” “I want to take you home and show you huge.” I wrapped my arms around his neck. “Do it, Noah. Take me home.” With a low rumble in his chest, he swept me o my feet, carrying me cradled to his body. I leaned my head against the hardness of his torso, listening to his heartbeat—strong and fast—under my ear. He was so solid. Like the earth he farmed, he was real, natural, and ﬁlled with life. He was my earth. I sighed when he tugged my hair back and kissed me, never breaking his stride. “I want you so much, Dani. I’ve never felt like this…ever.” I teased his mouth, his breath washing over my face. “I want you too. Take me home, Noah.” He moved faster.

I woke up Sunday morning, once again wrapped in Noah. The a ection he bestowed on me in his waking moments deﬁnitely carried over into his sleeping habits. It didn’t matter where I was on the bed; he was with me, his arms holding me close, head buried into my neck, and his hot breath dancing across my skin as he slumbered. When I

moved, he moved. If I shifted and rolled, seconds later, he followed, his mouth pursing into a kiss on my skin before falling back into a deep sleep. Currently, he was draped over my torso, his head lying on my chest, while one hand ﬁsted my hair and the other was wrapped around my waist. I had no idea how he could sleep like that, but I was totally his prisoner. I ran my ﬁngers through his unruly hair, made all the messier by my tugging on it last night, and smiled at his soft hum as he opened his eyes, blinking and lazy. “Hey,” he rasped, his voice low in the still of the room. “You okay?” “I’m good. A little hot, but good.” “I’d say you’re pretty fucking hot, Sprout.” He grinned, nudging my thigh with his morning wood. I giggled at his obvious train of thought. “I meant hot as in temperature-wise. You need to come with a warning.” He laughed and rolled o me, lying on his side, bending his elbow and propping up his head. “I like being close to you.” “I noticed.” “Too much?” “No, I like it.” He reached out, running his knuckles along my cheek. “I like you.” He paused. “More every day, Dani.” All the air left my lungs in a long sigh. “Me too.” He smiled softly. “Good. That’s a good thing.” We were both quiet for a few moments, enjoying the silence and simply looking at each other. Noah caressed my skin in

gentle strokes, touching my arms, neck, and cheeks, his touch light and a ectionate. “You want to stay here for a while or head into your place?” “Um—” “My mom was going to make brunch for us before we left if you have time. If not, we’ll take a rain check.” “Oh.” “No pressure. If you have time, we’ll stay. If not, we’ll head in. Whatever you need to make it easier on you.” “We’ll stay for brunch.” “Yeah?” “I don’t have a lot to do. But if I go home now, I’ll just fuss over things all afternoon.” “Okay. I’ll let her know we’re on for brunch. But, Dani?” “Yeah?” He cupped my cheek, his voice ﬁlled with reassurance. “You won’t be going in alone, and I won’t let you fuss. My job for the next couple days is to keep you calm and do whatever you need to get through to your meeting. Okay?” “Okay.”

I hated leaving the farm. Driving away from the peacefulness and calm it represented to me. It was odd how some place I hadn’t even known existed a few weeks ago now felt like a safe haven. When I was there with Noah, it felt as if I had

come home. More so than I had ever felt in Toronto. It was disconcerting on some levels, yet felt natural on others. Luckily, Noah held my hand and talked during the drive, distracting me. When we got to my place, I reviewed everything I had and sent it to Carl. Then Noah shut my computer, refusing to allow me to do any more work. He pulled out a couple of board games he’d brought with him, and we passed some time laughing over silly words on the Scrabble board and played rummy with gummy bears he’d stashed in his du el bag. He cheated a lot, constantly eating the bears and trying to look innocent when I’d notice the betting pot shrinking. He made me laugh with his antics. Even though I knew there was nothing left for me to do, that everything was done—it was hard to let it go. When my gaze strayed over to my laptop once too often, he drew a bath, sliding in behind me and massaging my shoulders, which led to a breast massage he insisted was required. That, of course, led to another batch of towels required to sop up the displaced water from his vigorous lovemaking. We ordered a pizza that night when he admitted that was one thing he missed about the big city. We watched a movie lying on my sofa, and he carried me to the bedroom when I fell asleep on top of him. When I woke up with a start in the night, he was there, wrapping me in his arms, humming into my ear, and talking to me quietly about our upcoming weekend, his plans for the restaurant for the next season— anything to keep my mind o the morning. I ﬁnally fell asleep again, although I was still tired when I woke up. He drove me to work Monday morning, refusing to let me take the subway. He blew up my inbox and sent me sweet

texts and pictures. Knowing he was close helped keep me calm and steady. It was after lunch when Carl strode in, his laptop in his hand. He sat across from me, his face creased into a frown. I felt the stirrings of unease begin in my chest, and my hands started shaking. I drew in a calming breath, counting to ten and slowly letting it out. “Carl,” I said. “I hope the ﬁle was to your satisfaction.” He nodded, never one to mince words. “I went through everything, and you were right. My additions added nothing. Send Martin the original ﬁle.” I tamped down my anger, trying not to gape at him. All that work and worry for nothing. The time wasted over the weekend when I could have been spending it with Noah. Avoided the meltdown I’d had on Friday and the subsequent argument with him. But I kept my voice level. “I’ll send it right away.” “You take the lead on Wednesday. No one knows this better than you. You did well, and I apologize for my shortsightedness.” I blinked. Carl was a decent enough boss, but it was rare he apologized. “Thank you.” He nodded. “Martin is working on some other projects. Big ones. I’m sure he is going to want you to work on them. I’ll need you on the ball.” I swallowed, my anxiety ramping up quickly. “I was thinking about taking a little time o .”

“Probably a good idea. Burnout is common with this sort of job. Get me the requisition, and I’ll have Martin sign o once we meet on Wednesday.” He left the o ce, and I felt a swell of relief. Everything was going to be ﬁne. I’d make it through the meeting, go away with Noah, then take a few weeks o and rest, and I would be able to cope better. I smiled as I opened my laptop. Finally, I was back on track. I was certain of it.

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

DANI

oah didn’t seem as certain when I told him my news after he picked me up. He was quiet on the drive to my place, not saying much until we got inside. I could smell something delicious cooking as I inhaled in appreciation. I went and changed, slipping into jeans and a loose shirt. Noah handed me a glass of wine when I returned. I lifted my glass. “Here’s to brighter days.” He hesitated but touched his glass to mine. He didn’t take a sip, though. “What?” I asked, confused. “Do you really think a few weeks will help you, Dani? That your body will just fall in line and reset itself?” “Yes. I only need a break.” He hu ed a sigh, pushing o the counter. He paced the room in silence, then turned back to me. “You don’t see it, do you? The similarities between us. What I went through—what you’re going through.”

“No, I do. But I’m di erent, Noah. I feel anxious, but my attacks are less frequent. I know I need a break, and I’ll take one. I’ll get some rest, relax, hopefully see lots of you…” I trailed o . “Unless you don’t want to see me?” He ran a hand through his hair, his voice frustrated. “Of course I do.” He studied me for a moment. “What about your promise to see a doctor?” “I still think it’s unnecessary. But if you really want me to, I’ll go.” He narrowed his eyes at my words. “I’ll do it, I promise.” He hu ed a sigh, still looking upset. “I’ll be ﬁne,” I stressed. He shook his head. “I can’t force you to listen to me, Dani. But I’m worried. I’m really worried.” “I’ll get through this week, and I promise to think about everything once I have a bit of a break.” He barked a laugh that was ﬁlled with disbelief. “You sound like I did. A broken record. I kept promising myself I’d get through this week or this meeting and things would get better.” He met my eyes. “They don’t magically get better, Dani. Trust me on this.” “I’ll see your doctor next week. I promise.” With a sigh, he pulled me into his arms. “Okay. Next week.”

After dinner, we took another walk, enjoying the cool evening. I found myself noticing the number of people around us. Unlike at the farm, the sidewalks were crowded, and people pushed around us, hurrying past. Others walked right between us, regardless of our clasped hands. It wasn’t relaxing, and we cut the walk short, instead sitting on a bench in a small park and sharing a pretzel from a food cart. “You should get your mom to make these, only smaller. What an awesome appetizer,” I said around a mouthful. “With her homemade mustard to dip in or a sauce made with your cheese, it would be delicious.” Noah stopped eating and looked at me. “That’s a great idea.” “They could be made ahead and frozen. You bake as needed.” He grinned and pulled out his phone, tapping out a message. “Brilliant.” We headed to my place, the sidewalks a little emptier. It was still lovely out, so we sat in my tiny backyard at the table I never used. “I see why you prefer the farm,” I mused. “You like it there? At the farm, I mean?” Noah asked. “Yes, it’s lovely.” “Could you see yourself there? I mean, being there more?” He paused. “With me?” I met his eyes. His gaze was watchful, serious. I thought about being at the farm—living there if I was reading his words right. Waking up with Noah every day, working side by side in the restaurant. Being part of his

family. Discovering a new way of life I never dreamed existed. “Maybe one day,” I said slowly. He smiled. “Good. That’s good. Dani, I—” His phone rang, and he glanced at it with a frown. “Ella?” He listened for a moment, his frown deepening. “Is he okay?” He paused, listening. “What the hell was he doing…? Never mind. What hospital?” He stood. “I’m on my way.” I was on my feet. “What is it? What’s wrong?” “There was an accident involving my nephew Ray. He’s hurt.” He shook his head. “Ella was so upset, she couldn’t give me all the details, but…” “You have to go.” I saw his indecision. He was in a hard position, choosing between his family and me. I made it easier for him. I laid my hand on his arm. “Noah, you have to go. They need you.” “You need me.” “No. I’m ﬁne. Tomorrow is a regular day for me. I have every conﬁdence in the meeting on Wednesday, and then it will be done. You need to go be with your family.” I grabbed his hand. “Honest.” For a moment, he wavered. Then he nodded and hurried inside. I followed him and watched as he shoved his clothes into his du el and grabbed his shaving kit from the bathroom. He stopped by the front door.

“I’m sorry.” “No. There is no need to be sorry. Please drive safely, and call me with any updates.” He pulled me into his arms and hugged me tight. He held me as if he were trying to embed me into his skin. His kiss was hard, deep, and intense. “I’m as close as my phone. Call me. Promise me, Sprout. If you need me, call me.” “I will.” He began to walk away, and I called his name as a thought occurred to me. “Noah, wait.” He turned, his gaze quizzical. “I’ll come with you.” He frowned. “What?” “I’ll follow you.” He came back and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear. “Dani, what about work?” I shook my head. “You need me. You’re more important.” He cupped my face and kissed me. “Thank you for saying that. For o ering. But I know you have to be at work.” “Not tomorrow. I can take tomorrow o

and be with you.”

“You’d do that?” “Yes.” He pulled me in for a hug. “Okay. I’ll wait.”

“Five minutes,” I promised, hurrying away. “Just ﬁve minutes!”

We arrived at the small hospital a short time later, Noah driving as fast as he could to get there. The waiting room was full. Ella and Gabe were there, Henry and Kris sitting next to them. Callie was outside, talking to John on the phone. She had told us they were waiting to talk to the doctor. “What the hell was Ray doing? They aren’t allowed to drive them o the farm,” Noah asked. Callie shook her head. “He wasn’t driving. It was some stupid prank. It wasn’t on our farm. He was at the Millers’.” Noah muttered something, and we headed inside. He hugged everyone, and I followed suit. “What happened?” he asked Gabe. “Idiots were messing around. They were using 4x4’s like drag racers. Lyle lost control and hit Ray. His rolled, and he was thrown.” He shook his head. “Lyle isn’t hurt, although I think his father wants to kill him. Luckily, Ray was wearing a helmet.” “Ray knows better.” Gabe shrugged, looking helpless. Henry leaned forward. “I won’t remind you of some of the stunts you pulled as kids. Walking the ridgepole of the barn, chasing the cows with the golf cart.” He shook his head. “That’s why I got rid of the 4x4. Dangerous machine around teenagers who think they know better. You all got in enough trouble with the carts.”

They all smiled in a moment of much-needed levity, but they grew serious when the doctor came in. Gabe and Ella went to talk to him. I slipped my hand into Noah’s, squeezing it. Lynn had been shocked when I’d called her on the drive out to tell her I wouldn’t be in the next day while I followed Noah in my car. He wanted me to drive with him, but I didn’t want to risk taking him away from his family when I had to leave. “You’re taking tomorrow o ?” she asked, sounding confused. “Yes. A family emergency.” “I didn’t know you had any family.” I never spoke about my personal life. I knew nothing about hers. We worked together well, but we had no relationship outside of the o ce. With a start, I realized I’d had no relationships outside of the o ce until I met Noah. But this wasn’t the time to ﬁll her in. “Please, Lynn, let Carl know. I will be there Wednesday, but I have to deal with this personal crisis right now. I’ll have my phone with me.” Then I grimaced, recalling that I had forgotten to grab my charger. “At least until it runs out of battery.” “All right. I’ll handle it. Let me know if you need anything.” I hung up, trying not to think about Noah’s comparison of our lives. He’d had no one either back then except his assistant. I shook my head. I would think about that later. I needed to concentrate on Noah. His family. Noah squeezed my hand to bring me back to the moment. He had his eyes trained on Gabe and Ella across the room. Ella

wiped her face and Gabe hugged her close, then he walked away with the doctor. Ella came over. “I can go see Ray. He needs surgery. His arm is broken, and he’s really banged up. There’s internal bleeding, and they think they need to remove his spleen.” She choked back a sob. “Gabe’s gone to sign the paperwork, and we’ll see Ray before he goes in. They want to get him in fast because of the bleeding.” Noah hugged her. “We’ll be right here.” She shook her head. “You should all go home. We’ll call with an update.” Kris and Henry hugged her, o ering words of comfort. Callie did the same, and I stood back, unsure what to do. Ella o ered me a wobbly smile. “Thank you for coming with Noah,” she murmured. I reached out and hugged her. “We’ll be right here. We’re not going anywhere.” She nodded and hurried away. Noah stood beside me, resting his hand on my hip, keeping me close. Callie spoke up. “I should go and check on Trevor and make sure Tori is okay. She was so upset.” Kris nodded. “Go be with them. We’ll call.” I met Callie’s eyes. “I’ll look after them,” I whispered. She patted my arm. “I’m glad my brother has you.”

For the next while, I did everything I could think to do. I walked down the street to an all-night Tim Horton’s and brought back co ee. I sat beside Kris and listened to stories of the night Ray was born. When Gabe and Ella reappeared, I went back and got more co ee and some sandwiches. I paced outside with Noah. Watched him o er comfort to his brother and sister-in-law, talking about how strong Ray was. What a fighter he had always been. “He’ll put way more gray hairs on your head yet, Gabe.” They shared stories of Ray growing up. How excited Tori had been to become a big sister and how she adored him. There was laughter amid the tears, and when the doctor came out a few hours later to say Ray was in recovery and doing well, plus shared the good news he expected a full recovery, my eyes filled with tears of gratitude. “We took out the spleen. Set the bone. We needed a few screws to hold it in place, but they’ll be removed at a later date. Regardless of the helmet, he’s going to have a massive headache, and he’s going to be bruised and sore.” The doctor smiled. “But he’ll recover, and I doubt he will ever look at a 4x4 the same way.” He clapped Gabe on the shoulder. “He’ll be fine and helping you back on the farm in no time.” Everyone breathed a deep sigh of relief. Noah looked at his parents. “Come on, I’ll drive you home.” Gabe spoke up. “Everyone, go home. Ella and I will stay and be here when he wakes up.” Noah frowned. “Are you sure?” Gabe nodded. “We need to cover the store and the restaurant —”

Noah cut him o . “We’ll cancel service for the evening.” He glanced at his watch. “It’s three a.m., so I doubt any of us will get much sleep. We’ll be too tired to cook and serve.” Ella shook her head. “No, don’t do that. Unless something drastic goes wrong, the danger has passed. We need to carry on. Gabe and I will stay here.” “I’ll come back later,” Kris said. “I’ll sit with him, and you can get some rest. Then Henry can do the same.” She looked at Noah. “You and Callie can run the store and the restaurant. Spell each other o for a nap.” “I can help,” I o ered. “I know how to wait tables.” “We only have a few reservations tonight. We won’t take any later ones.” Noah decided. He met Gabe’s eyes. “We’ll come back and see Ray later when he’s awake.” “Okay. Take Mom and Dad home. They’re exhausted.” “On it.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

DANI

short while later, I followed Noah’s truck home, waiting as his parents got out and headed inside their house. I parked behind him and got out of the car where he waited for me. He took my hand. “You were amazing, Sprout. Thank you.” “All I did was get co ee.” He shook his head. “No. You listened and cared for my parents. Comforted Gabe and Ella. All of us.” He lifted my hand and kissed it. “You were there for them and for me. You have no idea how much it meant having you there.” I smiled, unsure what to say. We went inside, and he paused. “Hungry? Thirsty?” “No, just tired.” He tugged my hand, and we went upstairs. He plugged in my phone as I brushed my teeth, and I changed into one of his shirts as he brushed his. A few moments later, we were in his big, comfortable bed, and he pulled me close, kissing my head. “Thank you again,” he murmured, his voice heavy with exhaustion.

I squeezed his waist, resting my head on his chest. He was out almost immediately. I was too keyed up to sleep, and after a while, I slipped from the bed and headed downstairs. I checked the contents of the cupboard and whipped up a batch of mu ns, watching the sun rise over the ﬁelds. Slipping on a hoodie I found, I sat on Noah’s deck and inhaled the fresh, crisp morning air. The sound of the patio door opening made me turn my head. Noah came out, carrying a cup of co ee as well as one of the warm mu ns. He sat behind me, pulling my back to his chest. He set down his co ee and tilted my head up, dropping a fast kiss to my mouth. “I found you.” “You thought I’d disappeared?” “I woke up, and you weren’t there. I thought you’d left,” he admitted. “But your car was there, so I knew you were around. Then I smelled the mu ns, so I came to ﬁnd you.” “Why would I leave?” He paused before answering. “I thought maybe you couldn’t stay away from the o ce. Now you knew Ray would be okay, I thought you headed back in.” I didn’t reply. He was right. I had been thinking I should go to the o ce—except he still needed me, and it was nice to be needed by Noah. “I thought you could take the mu ns to Gabe and Ella. I can look after the store if you show me how to use the register and the scale.” “Really?” “I know how much you want to see Ray.”

He tugged me back to his chest. “You’re going to be exhausted later.” “I’ll catch a nap this afternoon and sleep well tonight.” “I wish I could come back with you.” “No, you’re needed here. I’ll be ﬁne.” I patted his hand. “Eat your mu n, and you can show me all the things.” “All the things?” “All the store things.” He pressed a kiss to my hair. “I’d rather show you other things.” “Keep it in your pants, Noah. We have a business to run.” He laughed and picked up his co ee. “Okay, then.”

I discovered there was no such thing as a nap on a farm. There was always something to do. Noah took me to the store and showed me the register and how to use the scale. Luckily, he had a list of prices on the counter, so it made it easy. Before he left for the hospital, the door opened and an older woman bustled in, carrying a casserole. “I heard about Ray,” she said to Noah. “How is he?” “Doing well.” “I brought a little something for them.” She winked. “Not to worry, Noah, all made with the good stu .”

He chuckled and brushed a kiss to her downy cheek. “Thanks, Mrs. M.” She smiled at me. “Oh, hello. Are you new here?” I wasn’t sure what to say, but Noah looped his arm around me, pulling me to his side. “This is my girlfriend, Dani. Dani, Mrs. M.” He smirked. “She is shameless in her desire for me.” His teasing tone made me grin. Mrs. M, who must have been seventy, laughed. “He’s right, dear. I’ve been after him since the husband departed for heaven.” She sighed heavily. “I suppose I didn’t stand a chance. All those casseroles were useless.” She shook her head, her eyes twinkling. “I can’t compete against such loveliness.” Noah leaned over and kissed her again. “If it doesn’t work out, I’ll be around.” “Oh, get away with you, scamp!” She laughed and I joined in. The day was much the same. Some customers came in, but there were more neighbors and people dropping things o , coming in to check on Ray, the family, telling me to let them know what was needed. Many of them asked who I was, and since Noah had introduced me as such, I was comfortable saying I was his girlfriend and helping out. I received more hugs and kisses on the cheek in one day than I thought I had my entire life. When Noah got back, Henry came into the store. I helped Callie and Noah in the kitchen and, later, waited tables. They ended dinner service at seven thirty and closed the place up quickly. They’d kept the menu small and easy with grilled items and fresh salads and vegetables. To make up for the

simpler menu, they added dessert, and I whipped up a fast peach cobbler to serve with the ice cream. After, Noah walked me to my car. He made sure I had eaten dinner with him and Callie in the kitchen. I had saved some cobbler for Ray since Ella had told me he loved cobbler, and Noah and Callie were going to go see him for a quick visit before visiting hours were over. “They think he’ll be released in a day or two. They were worried about a concussion, but he seems okay so far. They’re going to watch him tonight and tomorrow and decide.” I squeezed his hand. “That’s good.” We reached my car. “I wish I could come back with you,” he said. “No, you’re exactly where you need to be.” “About this weekend—” I cut him o . “Noah, I understand. If it’s okay, I’ll come here and help. We can go away another time.” “Next weekend,” he promised. “Please stop worrying. Tomorrow will be ﬁne, and I’ll be out on Thursday. You’ll get me all weekend. You’ll be sick of me.” “Impossible.” He stroked my cheek. “I’ll make us a special dinner on Saturday. Here at the house. We’ll still celebrate.” “Sounds lovely.” “Dani, are you—”

I shook my head, cutting him o . “I’m ﬁne. Lynn covered for me today, and tomorrow, I will be just ﬁne. I have the weekend and you to look forward to.” “And you’ll ask for your time o ?” “I already had Lynn forward the request. Carl will have Martin sign o on it.” He pulled me into his arms. “Thank you for everything. Last night, today, this evening. Being here with me. Caring for my family.” “You’re welcome.” He bent his head, capturing my lips with his. His kiss was sweet and tender. Filled with emotion. Our mouths moved in perfect harmony, our tongues sliding with each other in a sensual dance of silent emotion. He tugged me closer, his arms banded around me, his warmth sinking into my skin. He surrounded me. His taste, his touch, his scent. Everything that was right and perfect in this world was holding me. I never wanted it to end. But it had to. He pulled back, dropping little kisses to my face and running his nose along mine a ectionately. “I’m with you tomorrow, Dani. You call me when it’s done. You’ll be brilliant.” I slid into the car, and he leaned down. “You have the GPS on your phone?” “Yes.” “If you get lost, call me. I’ll come get you.” I chuckled at his insistence. I was terrible with directions and getting lost. He saw that in Toronto and knew how much

trouble I had ﬁnding my way here. “I will.” “Otherwise, call me when you hit the highway.” “Okay.” He leaned in and kissed me again. “I’ll see you on Thursday.”

“Postponed?” I repeated. “The meeting’s been postponed?” Lynn nodded. “Until three.” “Why?” “I have no idea. Carl just called.” I slumped in my chair. I had arrived early, going through my notes, making sure I had all the files in order for when I needed them. I couldn’t a ord to show any weakness where they were concerned. The owner ran the company with an iron fist, and his partners bowed to all his decisions. When I first started, I recalled wondering why he didn’t create instead of only dismantling companies. Expand and make something good even better instead of selling it o and only keeping the most profitable, but I had learned not to question how it was done. There were times, though, I wondered how I had become the person who helped him narrow everything down to dollars and cents. Lynn frowned. “Did you want a co ee? You already look exhausted.”

“That would be great.” “Can I ask how your, ah, situation went?” “Oh, Ray is doing well. He came through surgery and is recovering nicely.” “And Ray is?” “Noah’s nephew.” She lifted her eyebrows. “Ah. You got close fast.” “Yeah, we did. I want to buy him a get-well gift. What do teenagers like?” She laughed. “Technology, food, and girls.” I recalled Noah saying Ray liked anything gadgety. I wondered about something along those lines. I remembered watching some boys in the park play with their drones. I bet Ray would like that. I decided to check out the internet for some ideas. Lynn brought me my co ee as I went through missed emails and voice messages. Most, I had taken care of in between customers at the store, but there were a few I had to be in the o ce to reply to. When I ﬁnished, I called Noah to tell him of the delay. “So, you won’t be out tonight?” he asked, disappointment evident in his voice. “It might be late, and I’m pretty tired,” I admitted. “It might be better for me to come in the morning.” “Did you have trouble sleeping?” “A little. My warm blanket was elsewhere,” I said lightly.

“I feel the same way about my favorite pillows.” He made me smile. “I have an appointment for you.” My smile fell. “Noah—” He cut me o . “You promised.” Then he cursed. “Someone just came in. Call me after you’re done. We’ll figure it out. Are you okay, though?” “I’m fine.” He hung up and I sighed. I really didn’t want to go to the doctor, but I knew it would make Noah feel better. I could do that for him. The day passed slowly, my nerves building as it went. I arrived in the boardroom early, taking in several deep, cleansing breaths. Remembering Noah’s advice, I concentrated on a good memory, finding a calm place in my mind and helping my body to relax. I had everything I needed. I had done all the work—my numbers were solid, and the recommendations would make Martin a great deal of money once he implemented them. Money made Martin happy. And a happy Martin would sign my vacation request, and I could take some time and recover. That was all I needed—a break. I was sure of it. Carl and his assistant came in, and my chest tightened. Lynn sat down beside me. My phone vibrated in my pocket, and I pulled it out, smiling at the text waiting for me from Noah. You can do this, Dani. I know you can. So proud of you, Sprout. Call me when you’re done.

I had no time to reply as Martin strode in, flanked by his right-hands, Albert and Walter. All were dressed alike in black suits and expensive ties. I slipped my phone back into my pocket since Martin refused to allow anyone to have their phone on while in the boardroom. Anyone except him, of course. He sat at the head of the boardroom table, surveying everyone. He said only one thing. “I want the bottom line on every angle.” I swallowed my nerves, opened the correct file, and fisted my hands on my lap, knowing every eye in the room was on me. I took a sip of water and fought back the anxiety that twisted and turned inside. I could do this. I had to.

Two hours later, Martin had decided to purchase yet another company which he would break up, sell the lesser profitable arms, and grow the stronger ones. Relieved, I gathered my files, knowing it was now in the hands of the lawyers and his team he deployed to handle the details. My job was done. I made my way to my o ce, going directly to my private washroom. I splashed cold water on my pale face and held the edges of the vanity tightly, taking in several breaths. My neck and shoulders ached from the force of holding them upright. My throat felt tight from tamping down the tremor that kept creeping into my voice. My fingers ached from clenching them so tightly.

But I had done it. It was over. I had made it through the meeting without an attack. It had taken every bit of my concentration and energy, but I had done it. I made my way back to my desk. A few minutes later, Lynn knocked and came in, handing me a co ee and a sandwich. “You haven’t eaten all day.” “Nerves.” “Well, it’s over. Eat.” I smiled at her bossiness and picked up the sandwich, taking a bite. Compared to something Noah would have given me, it was tasteless. I made a face, dropping it back in the container. Wiping my fingers, I picked up my phone and texted him. Done. My phone rang right away. “Hi.” “You okay, Dani?” “It’s over. They went with my recommendations.” “Good. Are you okay?” “A little shaky,” I admitted. “But I’m fine.” I heard his heavy sigh. “You sure you don’t want me to come in?” “Noah, I’m leaving early tomorrow to come out there. I’m going to finish up, go home, do some laundry, and crash. Really, I’m fine.” I let out a small chuckle of relief. “It’s over.

I survived. I’ll get some time o , and the break will do me a world of good.” “You’ll let me take you tomorrow, right?” I wanted to tell him I didn’t need to see a doctor. The stress was over, and I’d ﬁnd my feet on my own. But I knew how important it was to him. “Yes. I’ll go waste the good doctor’s time.” “It’s not a waste,” he growled. “Okay,” I placated him. “I’ll go. I promised I would.” I cleared my throat. “How’s Ray?” I asked, changing the subject. “Good. He can come home tomorrow.” “That’s great news!” “It is.” I heard his name being called, and I knew I needed to let him go. “I’ll call you later.” “Okay, Sprout.” I hung up, tidied up some loose ends, and returned some emails. Lynn left for the day, and I shut down my computer, feeling exhausted. My door opened, and Martin walked in, his usual cold smile on his face. “Dani. You did well today. Very concise and professional.” “Thank you.” He held up a piece of paper. “Carl gave me your vacation request.” I nodded.

“You’ve never asked for vacation before.” Something in his tone made my chest tighten. “I know. I need a little time o .” He sat down, tapping two thick ﬁles on his leg. “I’m going to have to refuse your request.” I gaped at him. “Pardon me?” “I know you’ve worked hard, but that’s what I pay you for.” He leaned forward, dropping the ﬁles on my desk. “I want these two companies. I need you to work them both up and get me the preliminary numbers.” He smirked. “They aren’t for sale, so we’ll have to be creative with our o ers.” “Two hostile takeovers?” I rasped, my throat dry, my mind spinning at the amount of work he had just dumped on my desk. I had avoided being part of hostile takeover bids until now. The companies I did the projections on were happy to sell to Martin and walk away. Another group worked on hostile takeovers. They were complex, time-consuming, and often nasty. “Maybe just one. I haven’t decided.” My legs started to shake. “I need some time o , Martin.” I pushed out through dry lips. “I’m not without sympathy, Dani. You have the rest of the week o . Two days plus the weekend. I’ll give you Monday as well. It’s like an entire week.” His smirk became a wide, evil sneer. “I won’t even dock you. Consider it a bonus for a job well done. Maybe once these are complete, I will grant you your time o .” He stood up, smoothing his jacket. “I expect the preliminary numbers on both of them in two weeks. Enjoy your break.”

Then he walked out.

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

DANI

stared at my closed door. He said no. He refused to give me my vacation.

At that exact moment, I realized how much I needed that vacation. I knew what the next few months would entail. Days of work. Long nights spent at the computer. Numbers blending together. Perfection demanded. Martin’s sarcastic smile as he told me to redo something di erently. No errors allowed, he would snidely remind me. No sleep. Forgetting to eat. No time to spend with Noah. His disappointed face when I told him. The burn started in my legs and slowly rose up my body. I felt the tremors begin in my feet, gradually taking over my entire frame until I was a mass of shaking limbs. Sweat beaded on the back of my neck and hairline. Hot, pulsating

panic began to twist in my chest, making breathing di Irrational fear raced down my spine.

cult.

I reached out for my phone, needing to hear Noah’s voice. It scuttled over the edge of the desk, hitting the floor with my clumsy attempt to grab it. I stood, gasping for air as the panic hit hard. It felt as if my chest were being crushed by some unforeseen force. Tears poured down my face, and I looked for my phone. I bent over to grab it as black spots filled my vision, and I stumbled, hitting my cheek on the edge of my desk, the pain exploding behind my eyes. I collapsed on the floor, desperately struggling to bring my breathing under control. I curled into the fetal position as if I were being attacked and trying to protect myself. In and out. I concentrated on those two actions, forcing my lungs to expand and contract, until I was finally able to get enough air into my lungs, the gasping stopped. Slowly, the panic loosened, ebbing away until I was an exhausted pile of bones on the hard floor. I had no idea how long I lay on the unforgiving hardwood. Slowly, I got to my feet, holding on to furniture and the walls until I got to the washroom. My face was ashen in the reflection in the mirror, a bruise already forming high on my cheek by my hairline. My skin was chafed where I’d fallen forward on my hands. My knees ached—my entire body ached. I felt as if I had been hit by a truck. With shaking hands, I wiped away my ruined makeup and stared at myself in the glass, reality crashing around me. Everything Noah had said to me, every fear he had expressed, hit me.

He was right. I couldn’t do this anymore.

I pulled over to the side of the road, gripping the steering wheel tightly. Tears threatened, and I felt the waves of panic starting to build again. Anxiously, I pushed open the door, gasping for air. The sun was setting, dipping low in the sky as I gazed around in desperation. The store should be here. Right here. I was sure I had followed the roads correctly. Three lefts and two rights o the highway and The Harvest Table should be here. I bit down so hard on my lip I tasted blood. I pushed back my hair, grimacing when my ﬁngers touched the bruise on my cheek. I could feel the tremors starting, and, frightened, I grabbed my phone o the seat, hitting Noah’s icon. I was met with silence again, the call not going through. I had tried him before leaving the o ce, but the calls had gone straight through to voice mail. In my ﬂight out of the o ce, I’d left my Bluetooth device so I couldn’t call him from the road. I hadn’t left a message earlier, knowing if he heard my voice, he would freak out. It had taken every little bit of strength I had left to calm down enough to drive. I needed to get to Noah, to talk to him. He would help me. I fought down the terror that kept rippling under my skin, determined to get to him.

Except I couldn’t find him. To the left and right were fields, the crops swaying in the dying light. Nothing looked familiar; nothing gave me a clue. And I had no signal, the bars on my phone barely registering. I walked around the car, leaning against the trunk, trying to fight the fog that was filling my head. Was it three rights and then two lefts? Had I gone in the wrong direction? My heart started hammering in my chest, and with a whimper, I slipped down the metal onto the hard ground, drawing my legs tight to my chest. My head was too heavy to hold up, and I let it fall to my knees as the tears came, hot and thick. Noah—I needed Noah. Lost in my panic, I didn’t hear the sound of an approaching vehicle or the sounds of hurried footsteps and worried voices around me. I knew someone was talking to me, but I couldn’t reply. I couldn’t even lift my head. There were more sounds; tires squealing, the sounds of rocks flying and running feet. Then I felt it. Noah. That strange connection I had to him flickered and grew stronger. Noah was close. The gentle touch of his arms surrounding me and his warm voice—the voice I was desperate to hear—broke through my haze. I was lifted from the dirt, the cold metal of my trunk under my legs, and I felt my hand pressed against something solid, warm, and comforting.

“Dani, baby. Feel me…feel my breathing. Breathe with me. You can do this.” His mouth touched my forehead. “I’m here, Sprout. I need you to listen to me.” “No…Noah,” I panted. “I’m right here. Now, breathe, baby. Slow…just slow, deep breaths. With me. You’re safe, do you hear me? I’m right here.” His presence allowed the crippling panic to ease o . I concentrated on the feeling of his chest moving—in and out, measured and calm, and after a few moments, I could feel air moving in my lungs again. Noah cupped my face in his large hands. “Open your eyes, Dani.” With a shaky sigh, my lids ﬂuttered open, and I blinked, trying to clear away the tears. Noah’s concerned face swam into focus, his eyes dark with worry, a frown marring his handsome face. “You…you found me,” I whispered, my throat feeling ravaged and dry. “Callie did—she was on her way back to the store when she saw you. She radioed me.” “I couldn’t…I couldn’t ﬁnd the store. My phone…didn’t…no signal.” He pushed back my hair, frowning when he felt the broken skin, but he didn’t say anything. “You were almost there, sweetheart. Two more bends in the road, and you would have found me.” I let out a shuddering breath. I had been so close.

Noah pulled me back against his chest, wrapping me in his arms. I could hear his heart, strong and steady under my ear, and I leaned heavily into his warmth. “I’m taking her to my place, Callie,” he said quietly. “Take my truck for me, yes? Leave it at the store.” He lifted me from the trunk, slipping me into the passenger seat. He crouched beside me, wrapping his hand around my fingers that fisted his shirt. “You need to let go, Dani. Just for a minute, okay? I won’t leave you, but you have to let go.” I had to tell him. “You were right, Noah. You were so right.” “That doesn’t make me happy, Dani, but I know. We’ll figure this out, baby. Together.” I let my arm fall, and he quickly moved to the driver’s seat, sliding in and taking my hand, holding it tight to his chest. “Relax, baby. You’re safe now. I have you.” I nodded in relief. He had me.

I started to shake. Long, uncontrolled shivers tore through me as I sat on Noah’s sofa. He was in the kitchen making me a cup of tea, only a few feet from me, but I couldn’t see him. My throat felt as if it were closing, and I gripped the arm of the sofa, trying to ﬁnd my composure, hating how weak I was. He was right there—I was safe—I knew all this. But the fact that I couldn’t touch him made me frantic. I stood, the air around me too thick to breathe. I stumbled over the ottoman, pitching forward, landing on my knees, hot tears

streaming down my face again. Noah was beside me right away, gathering me close and pressing my face to his chest. “Hey, Dani,” he crooned. “I’m right here, baby. I’m right here.” I clung to him like a child, even as I felt mortification race through me. Where was the strong woman I had been for so long? Why was I acting like such an adolescent? Noah’s arms tightened. “You are strong, Dani. You aren’t acting like a child. Your body is warning you that you need to stop.” He ran his lips over my head. “You have to listen, baby. God, please listen. I can’t lose you. Not now—not ever.” Wrapped in his embrace, I once again calmed. How did he have such an e ect on me? No one in my life had ever done what he could do. He held me close, letting me clutch his shirt until the last of the tremors faded and I slumped against him in exhaustion. He slipped his long fingers under my chin, lifting my face. “Hi,” he murmured, his warm green eyes filled with concern. “Better now?” “I couldn’t see you. I knew…I knew you were there, but I couldn’t see you,” I whispered, my voice rough from crying. He stood, lifting me with him as if I weighed no more than a feather, and carried me into the kitchen, setting me down on the counter. He reached over, flicking the kettle back on. “I’m making you some chamomile tea with honey for your throat. It will help calm you too. Then you’re having a bath— with me—and you’re going to tell me what happened that brought this on.” He shook his head. “This is the worst one, isn’t it?” “Yes.”

He leaned his forehead to mine. “I should have come in.” “It would have happened anyway. Martin… he…” My voice shook. “What?” “He refused my time o , Noah.” My voice rose in panic. “He has two new companies he wants to purchase, and I have to start work on them next week! Two!” I felt my head shaking frantically. “I can’t… I just can’t… I don’t—” Noah grabbed my face, his head shaking as fast as mine. “You won’t have to. Listen to me, Dani. It’s going to be all right, okay? Tomorrow, we’ll work it out. Everything is going to be okay. Do you trust me?” “Yes.” “Then relax. Let me take care of you tonight, and tomorrow, we’ll work it all out. I promise.” His grip tightened as he met my gaze, his eyes calm and determined. “I promise.” I sighed shakily, feeling exhausted. It felt as if it had been days since the meeting, not hours. “Okay.” He pulled me back into his arms. “Okay.” He let me sit on the counter as he moved around, making me tea and some toast, insisting I had to eat something. As long as I could see him, I was calm. His phone rang, and he glanced at me, indicating he was only stepping out onto the deck. Obviously, he needed some privacy, and I nodded, holding on to my mug a little tighter. He was only outside for a few minutes before he returned and came directly to me. “Is that all you can manage?” he asked quietly, frowning at the toast I had nibbled on.

“Yes.” He opened his mouth, then closed it and smiled gently at me. “Tomorrow will be a better day.” He scooped me o the counter. “Now, a bath and bed.”

The water was warm against my skin, the soothing scent of lavender in the air. Even warmer were Noah’s arms around me, holding me close. He whispered words to me constantly. He assured me he was there and not leaving my side. That we would ﬁgure this out together. That I was not alone. Every sentence was designed to calm and ease me. And it worked. “You’re seeing my doctor in the morning,” he told me quietly. “He ﬁt you in.” “All right,” I agreed. “I won’t leave your side. Not for one moment, okay?” “Okay.” In the sanctity of his embrace, I was calmer. Even though the day’s events played out in my head and the thought of the new projects Martin had placed on my desk was still there, I didn’t feel the overwhelming panic about them. Between the tea, the lavender, and Noah, I was calmer. After the bath, Noah slipped one of his T-shirts over my head and tucked me into his bed, crawling in beside me and holding me close. “Sleep, baby. I have you,” he murmured. Safe, warm, beyond exhausted, and feeling protected, I did.

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

DANI

r. Clark smiled kindly at me across the desk. “Okay, Dani, I’ve got everything I need for today. So, I’m going to lay it on the table, all right?” My grip on Noah’s hand tightened. He’d been with me the entire time, including in the examination room. I had nothing to hide from him and he was able to give Dr. Clark details I couldn’t remember, so I asked him to stay with me. I could hear the anxiety in his voice as he talked about my attacks, and I ached, knowing I was the reason for his worry. “Do you have your HR information? A phone number and a name I can contact?” “Yes—why?” “I’m putting you on medical leave—e ective immediately.” “For how long?” “We’ll start with six weeks. I’ll assess you every week, and we’ll discuss your future in a month.” “Six weeks?” I gasped. “Martin will ﬁre me!”

My heart began to race, would get. The constant other end of the phone, Noah’s hand tightened, arm around me.

thinking of the emails and texts I phone calls—his cold voice on the demanding my return. My grip on and he shifted closer, putting his

Dr. Clark shook his head. “Legally, Dani, once his HR department receives this letter, he cannot contact you without your permission. And even then, he is not allowed to discuss business. He can inquire as to your general health, discuss the weather, or rising gas prices, but nothing about work.” “He won’t like that. He’ll just fire me as soon as I return.” “Legally, he can’t. If and when you return, your job is secure.” “What am I supposed to do?” Dr. Clark exchanged a look with Noah, then leaned forward, lacing his fingers together. “Dani,” he stated in a gentle voice. “You are about as close to a breakdown as you can be. Your body is sending you all sorts of signals, which you’re ignoring. You need to step back, rest, and forget about work for a while. I’m going to put you on some medication that will help, and if you’re willing, schedule you an appointment to talk to someone.” I blinked at him. Step back…rest…talk? “I couldn’t just cut back at work?” He snorted. “No, I really don’t think you can.” He tapped the file in front of him. “Your blood pressure is high, your heart rate is bad, you shake constantly, and I can tell you’re not eating or drinking enough. Your skin is dehydrated, you have circles under your eyes, and your fingers and feet haven’t

stopped moving since you got here,” Dr. Clark stated ﬁrmly. “And that’s without any test results. I am certain your blood work will show your electrolytes are o and heaven knows what else. Should I continue?” I shook my head, dazed. “You sound as if I could die from this.” His brow furrowed. “Even an ingrown toenail can be fatal if not treated. You need to do this in order to get well, Dani. If you don’t stop this right now, your body can indeed fail.” Beside me, Noah made a strange noise. I looked over, meeting his intense, anxious gaze. “Listen to him, baby. Please.” The pain those few words were saturated in shocked me. His pleading words from last night rang in my head. “I can’t lose you. Not now—not ever.” I wasn’t only hurting myself. I was hurting Noah. I’d do anything to erase those lines of worry from his face. “Okay,” I whispered. “Okay. I’ll do it.” Noah lifted my hand, pressing a kiss to the palm. “Thank God.” Dr. Clark smiled. “Good. This is step one, Dani. I’ll be beside you all the way. So, I think, will someone else.” “Every step,” Noah insisted. “I thought it was over. That how I was feeling had just been a blip,” I admitted. “It was what you wanted to believe. It lulled you into a false sense of security.” Dr. Clark nodded. “It happens. But your

body is breaking down, Dani. It can’t handle the stress. Yesterday was its last-ditch e ort to get your attention.” “Why do I feel better when Noah is close?” Dr. Clark chuckled. “I’m sure Noah can answer that better than I can. But I can say this. He understands your bewilderment. He went through the same denial you did. Su ered greatly for it. Talk to him and let him help you. Let me help you.” “And they can’t call me?” “No,” Dr. Clark assured me. “We’re going to concentrate on getting you better. One day at a time.” He indicated our clasped hands. “I think you’re in the right place.” Noah squeezed my ﬁngers. “She is. I’ll look after her.” He met my eyes. “Always.” His words comforted me. His touch grounded me. He was right. I needed to do this for myself, for him, and for our future. “All right,” I said to Dr. Clark. “Tell me what you need.”

NOAH I peeked into my bedroom, watching Dani. She was asleep on the bed, curled up tight, holding my pillow. She looked peaceful, and I pulled the door shut quietly and went downstairs. My mom handed me a cup of co ee. “Asleep?” “Yeah.” I ran a hand through my hair. “All she does is sleep and cry. I’m scared to death, but Doc C says it’s to be expected.” Mom smiled sadly. “You don’t remember what you were like when you came home after the hospital, do you?” “Not really. Not much anyway.” “You slept and paced. Every day, all day, all night. I could barely get you to eat or come out of your room. I was terrified.” I frowned, trying to recall those first hazy days. “For how long?” “About three days. Then you appeared at breakfast. Showered, dressed, and wanting to get out of the house. You disappeared for hours, just walking. When you got home, you ate as if you hadn’t seen food for months. Then you crashed and slept for days, it seemed.” She smiled. “You were readjusting, Noah. Dani is doing the same thing. It’s only been two days. She doesn’t cry much until she sees you.” “I make her cry?” I asked, horrified. “You make her feel safe enough to cry, Noah. She needs to get it out. And she’s exhausted, so she needs to sleep. She’ll

ﬁnd her feet. Be patient.” “I hate to see her like this. She thinks she’s weak, but she isn’t. She’s just worn-out.” “You were the same. Your male pride took it hard. Of course, that little bitch didn’t help.” I gasped, hearing my mom swear. She laughed at my reaction. “What? She was. Little golddigging tramp.” I snickered at her vehemence. She covered my hand with hers. “Relax, my son. Dani’s in the right place. She’ll get stronger. Better.” I leaned forward. “Mom, I want her to get better. But I don’t want her to leave.” I paused. “Ever.” Her eyes widened. “Noah.” “I love her.” She smiled. “Just like your father. He told me he loved me on our second date. Informed me we’d be getting married on our third. I agreed with him, but I refused to let him know.” She winked. “Made him work for it.” I grinned, then became serious. “I don’t want to frighten her o .” “Oh, hush. She’s as crazy for you as you are for her. She lights up every time she sees you.” “In between the sobs,” I added dryly. “Like I said, because she’s safe. That shows the trust she has in you. Give her some time to settle, then tell her.”

“I will.” I glanced at my watch. “I need to get back. Tell her I was here and I’ll be back soon.” “I’ll look after her.” “I know. That gives me a lot of peace of mind.” I paused, indicating the bag I had brought in. “I had no idea what she would want. I probably forgot the important stu .” “I’ll tell her.” “Thanks, Mom.”

DANI I woke up slowly, blinking in the late-morning sun. I sat up and stretched, feeling di erent than I had the past two days. Calmer, more at ease. Grounded. I pulled my legs to my chest, resting my chin on them. It was so peaceful here. None of the noise. None of the thousands of other people headed in the same direction as me. There were no tall skyscrapers to block the view of the blue sky. No smog hanging in the air, making it hard to breathe. I had been terriﬁed after leaving the doctor’s o ce. Noah had taken my phone away, setting it on the top of the mantel to stop me from staring at it. It was a full day before I realized what Dr. Clark had said was true. They wouldn’t be calling. Martin couldn’t make demands. I didn’t have to go back to the o ce. I had burst into tears, and it felt as if all I had done since then was cry. But all I felt right now was calm. I knew, without a doubt, a large part of it was this place and the man who lived here. Noah. He protected me. He surrounded me. He grounded me. I slid from the bed and padded downstairs. Kris was in the kitchen, busy as usual. “Dani.” She smiled warmly. “How was your nap?” “Good.” She tilted her head. “You look…better.” “I feel, um, calmer?” I said, unsure how to describe it.

“Good. The rest is helping.” I poured a cup of co ee and saw the bag by the door. “Noah went to my place?” “Yes. He brought you some things.” “But how? The store…” She shook her head. “Ray is much better. Ella is with him, and Gabe covered the store while Noah went in and got a few things for you. He thought you’d be more comfortable if you could wear your own clothes.” “He’s so thoughtful,” I murmured. “I wish I weren’t such a bother to him.” “He doesn’t see you as a bother. None of us do,” she said ﬁrmly. “You are all so kind.” I sipped my co ee, spying the large bag of apples. “What are those for?” “I was going to make some applesauce.” “It’s Saturday, isn’t it?” “Yes.” “What are they doing about dessert?” She shook her head. “You don’t have to worry about that.” “But I feel so much better. And I want to do something. I could do a couple of easy apple sheet pies.” Kris hesitated. “If you peel the apples, I’ll make the crust. We could have them in the oven in thirty minutes as long as Noah has

cookie sheets.” She still hesitated. “Kris, I’m grateful for your being here. But my head is so much clearer today, and I want to contribute. I love baking. I’ll enjoy it.” She made her decision. “I’ll go get the cookie sheets. Callie has some.” She smiled. “Noah will be so surprised. And pleased.” She pursed her lips. “You’ll be okay while I’m gone?” “I’ll be ﬁne. Really.” “All right. Back in a ji .” “Okay, I’ll start on the crust.”

It felt good to be doing something other than sleeping or crying. By the time Kris reappeared with the cookie sheets, I had the crust ready, and as she peeled the apples, I lined the cookie sheets with the dough and made the streusel topping. I slid the two pans into the oven, and we tidied the kitchen, then sat down to have another cup of co ee as they baked. The aroma of spiced apples and sugar ﬁlled the kitchen, and she inhaled deeply. “Those smell incredible.” “They can serve them with their ice cream.” She reached over and squeezed my hand. “Noah will be thrilled.” “He’ll like having dessert to serve,” I agreed.

“No.” She shook her head. “He’ll be thrilled to see the light in your eyes again, Dani.” An hour later, I looked at the sheet pies cooling on the counter, glistening and delicious. I heard the sound of the golf cart, and Kris smiled. “I think I’ll pop over and check on Ray,” she said with a wink. I heard her say something to Noah as she passed him and heard his heavy footsteps coming toward the kitchen. He stopped when he saw me, his eyes widening as he breathed in. He stepped closer, looking at the pans of dessert. “Sprout, you did this?” “It’s only one dessert,” I whispered, feeling unsure suddenly. “But I thought it would help.” “It’s-it’s amazing.” I smiled. “Good.” I wagged my ﬁnger, wanting him to smile. “Don’t eat it all before service.” He moved quickly, pulling me into his arms. “Oh, baby, there you are.” He buried his face into my neck. “I’ve missed you.” I ﬂung my arms around his shoulders, holding him tight. “I’m sorry.” He stepped back. “No, don’t be sorry. I understand. But I’m glad to see a little of you peeking through.” “I feel a little better.” “I promise, it only gets better after this.” He kissed my hands and held them to his chest.

“Did you want…” He trailed o , and I shook my head, knowing what he was asking. I wasn’t ready to go to the restaurant yet. I still felt unsure at times, and I didn’t want Noah worrying about me during service. “Soon,” he assured me, his voice understanding. “One step at a time.” He wrapped his arms back around me. “And I promise, I’ll be right beside you every step.” I snuggled into his embrace. If I had him, I had all I wanted.

CHAPTER EIGHTEEN

DANI

he sun was warm today, and I sat on the deck, my Kindle in hand, enjoying the heat. It had been over a week since that horrible day when Noah had found me on the roadside. I still fell asleep far too often. I fell asleep on the couch, curled up on Noah’s bed, in the bathtub—he even found me asleep in the kitchen, my head on the table, my sandwich unfinished and my co ee cold. He refused to let me feel bad for sleeping so much, telling me it was my body catching up, and I was to sleep all I wanted. I think he was grateful the tears had dried up, though, and I no longer wanted to weep every time I saw him. I knew part of it was the medication beginning to work, but the other, larger part was being here, with him. My silent phone was in my purse. After the first anxious day, I stopped looking at it. As Dr. Clark said, there were no calls from the o ce, and the only text I had was from Lynn telling me to take care. Today was the first day I felt completely awake and relaxed. A few days ago, I had convinced Noah I was fine on my own, so his mom no longer had to babysit me. She still dropped by to check in, but it was to visit, not to take care of me. Noah had given me a radio in case I needed him. He assured me he

could be here in minutes—even faster, if need be. I only smiled, knowing it made him feel better. He’d been so wonderful. As he had from the moment we met, he was ever patient and gentle, wanting to make everything okay for me. And he checked on me frequently. Far too frequently. The door opened behind me, and I looked around to see Kris. I smiled at her. “Have you been sent to check on me?” The store was busy today, and Noah was still worried about me being alone too much. She sat down, drawing me in with a one-armed hug. “Nope. I came all on my own.” She grinned mischievously. “Is he driving you crazy?” “No. It’s just strange, having someone care so much. I have to get used to it. He checks in far too often. And he uses any excuse to pop home.” As if on cue, my radio crackled. “Noah to Dani. Come in.” Biting back a giggle, I lifted the radio. “Dani here.” “All okay, Sprout?” Kris grabbed the radio. “Noah Franklin Edwards, how do you expect the girl to rest if you keep checking on her? She is ﬁne!” “Oh, ah… Hey, Mom.” “Don’t ‘Hey, Mom’ me. Get back to work.” The radio crackled. “Yes, ma’am.” Crackle. “Can I…can I just talk to Dani for a second?”

She handed me the radio with a smirk, and it took all I had not to laugh as I pressed the button. “Hey.” If Kris wasn’t using the radio lingo Noah insisted on, neither was I. “Are you hungry?” he whispered. “Do you want me to bring you lunch?” I glanced at Kris, who was now laughing, her head in her hands. “Noah, you know she can hear you, right? She’s sitting beside me. Whispering isn’t going to help.” “Right.” Crackle. “So, no lunch, then.” “No, I can get something for myself.” “Are you… Never mind.” Crackle. “You know where I am.” “I do.” “Noah, out.” I giggled. He certainly was. Kris sighed. “You bring him such joy, Dani. I’ve never seen him like this.” I picked at the frayed edge of the T-shirt I was wearing. “I worry I’ve caused him too much trouble.” She was silent for a moment, then took my hand, patting it gently. “When Noah came back to us, I didn’t know what to do. My own son was like a stranger to me. And he was so worried about the trouble he was causing us.” She shook her head. “It took him a long time to understand—when you love someone, caring for them isn’t trouble. It goes with the territory.”

I gaped at her. “Love? You think he loves me? But it’s only been a few weeks.” She chuckled. “Oh, girl. Time doesn’t mean anything. Love doesn’t have a calendar. It’s so obvious how he feels about you. He lights up just at the mention of your name.” “I think he’s amazing,” I admitted. “He means so much to me.” The truth was, I was in love with him, but I was unsure if his feelings were as strong. “I can see that as well.” Her voice was quiet. “As much as I hated what he went through, it brought him back to us. I got the chance to know my son again and watch him become the wonderful man he is today. But something’s been missing for him. That something is you. He is going to worry and fret —he’s just like Henry that way—protective and loving. But you aren’t trouble to him—to any of us. We want you well and happy.” I didn’t know what to say. “Let him care and fuss. It’s good to see him so involved with someone. To have someone he cares so much about that he wants to fuss and worry. Let him help you.” “I don’t want to be that woman, Kris. The one who only takes in a relationship.” She shook her head, chuckling. “You don’t see it, do you? You’re not just taking. You give to him as well. And when you’re stronger and feeling better, you’ll see how much you give.” I bit my lip, worrying it as I looked at her. “I’d like to give something now.” “What?”

“It’s Friday. What’s happening for dessert tonight?” “Noah and Callie are going to do the usual. Unless—” “Unless?” She bumped my shoulder, winking conspiratorially. “Unless you want to surprise him and use some of the peaches I have in the golf cart.” I grinned. “You had this planned.” She shrugged. “I had a feeling you’d want to do something you enjoyed. I thought I could help.” “Did you bring any blueberries?” “Ella can get some.” “Let’s get to it.”

Noah’s head snapped up when we walked into the restaurant, carrying the pans of peach-blueberry cobblers I’d made. He hurried over, taking the pan from my hands and swiftly kissing me. “What’s this for?” “I thought you’d like to give your Friday night diners a treat.” “You amaze me.” “Your mom helped.” “The customers will love it.” I stroked his cheek. “I was happy to do it.” I tamped down my nerves. “I thought maybe I could stay…and help out?”

His eyes glowed. “Yeah? You feel up to it?” “Yes, I do. I miss being here.” “Is that the only reason?” I stood on my toes, pulling his head closer. “I missed you too.” He smiled that wicked, wonderful grin—one side of his sexy mouth curling higher, making me warm inside. “I like having you here, Sprout.” Callie shouted over. “Hey, enough PDA in the kitchen!” “Shut it,” he growled and winked at me. “My girl just made tonight even better. She deserves PDA.” I kissed his cheek. “Go and cook. I’ll get my station ready for dessert.” Slowly, I slid my lips over to his ear. “I made extra and left it at home for you.” He kissed me again, his lips hard and insistent, stroking my tongue ﬁrmly with his own. It was fast, hot, and deep, and left me wanting more. He smirked and dropped another kiss on my mouth. “Your reward shall be great.” I shook my head as I went over to the corner I liked to work in. I already had my reward. I had him.

The moon was full, the air chilly as we walked along the dirt road, hand in hand, later that night. Service had been busy, my dessert selling out, and the impromptu meal after had been another one ﬁlled with laughter and teasing. It felt good to be back in the kitchen, watching Noah and Callie work together. Listening to their teasing. Joining in on it. It made me feel normal again. Ella and Gabe were there, and Ray came to say hello. He looked better, his bruises almost healed. He was anxious to get out of the cast but knew there was nothing he could do to speed it up. He grumbled to me he was grounded for a month, and I met Ella’s amused expression. “What you did was reckless. You deserved to be grounded,” she admonished him, then kissed his cheek. “You got o light compared to your friend. He’s grounded for the rest of the year. Plus, be grateful your dad didn’t take away the gift Auntie Dani sent you.” He loved the drone I had sent him. I’d ordered it and had it delivered. It arrived after he got home from the hospital, and his reaction to it had been e usive. Noah brought him to see me once I was feeling better, and I went outside with him and he showed me how well he could use it even with his arm in a sling. I ru ed his hair and leaned forward, dropping my voice. “Behave, and I bet your dad lets up on you. He has to follow the dad protocol, you know.” Ray grinned and hugged me. The whole family was a ectionate, and I was slowly getting used to it. I loved the hugs, and I secretly adored being called Auntie. It made me feel as if I were part of the family. As if I belonged there. Kris and Henry came for dessert, and everyone was shocked at Noah’s magnanimous gesture of giving his father the last

slice of cobbler we’d set aside for the family. Kris shot me a wink since she knew I had another pan sitting on the counter at Noah’s, which was the only reason he handed Henry the piece without a second thought. He had no plans on sharing his secret treasure. I shivered in the thin sweater I was wearing. Noah stopped, shrugging o his jacket and holding it open so I could slide my arms in. Instantly, I was surrounded by him. His rich, fallen-leaves scent was soaked into the denim, the warmth of his body still lingering in the fabric. He curled his arm around my waist, tucking me into his side, and we continued to walk. “It’s so pretty here.” I tilted my head, looking up at the inky black of the night sky. “You can see so many stars—it’s like thousands of diamonds.” “I know. It’s so clear out here. Quiet, too.” He was right. It felt as if we were alone in the world. The only sounds around us were our muted footsteps, the buzz of insects, and the breeze as it raced across the dark ﬁelds. “I’ll miss it,” I murmured without thinking. Noah’s steps faltered; he turned to me, holding my arm. “What did you say?” His tone made me nervous. I smiled at him, trying to ease the sudden tension between us. “All this. You don’t see many stars in Toronto with the smog—and the only noise you hear is the tra c most of the time.” His voice was tight, his hand squeezing my arm. “When do you plan on going back to Toronto?”

“Ah, I was thinking I’d go back Sunday? Or early next week?” He let go of my arm, stepping back, shaking his head, looking aghast. “You can’t.” “Noah, I have to go home. I’ll be ﬁne on my own.” “Why?” “I have responsibilities—I need to pick up my mail, pay my bills, check my house.” “I’ll help you. I’ll drive you in, and you can get what you need.” “Did you think I’d just stay here for the next six weeks?” “Yes, I did.” I gaped at him. He began pacing in front of me, pulling his hands through his hair repeatedly. “Noah, I—” He held up his hand, stopping me. “You can’t go back, Dani. You can’t. Don’t ask me to let you go.” “What do you think I should do, then?” “Stay here, with me.” “I have to go back eventually.” “Not necessarily.” “I don’t understand.” He stopped in front of me, running his hands up and down my arms as he studied my face. “I want you to stay here with

me, Dani. Not for a week, or even six. I want to build a life with you. I want you with me forever.” He drew in a deep breath. “I love you, Dani Rawlins. I love you so much that the thought of not being with you makes me crazy.” I stared at him, speechless. He stepped closer, our chests touching. His moved rapidly, his stress evident. “I love you so much, if you insisted on leaving, if your decision was to stay in Toronto, I would come with you.” My eyes widened in shock. “You’d leave the farm? Your family?” “For you, yes.” “I couldn’t ask you to do that. You’d hate it, Noah!” “I’d do it, if it meant I had you.” He cupped my face, his thumbs running over my skin in frantic circles. “I love you, Dani. I know it’s fast, and I know it sounds crazy. But I do.” I met his warm gaze. His never wavered; love blazed from the depth of his eyes, so blatant and honest. So real—just like him. “I love you too,” I whispered. He drew me close, our mouths meeting with soft, gentle pressure, our breath mingling, his tenderness evident. “Stay with me.” “What if—” “Give us a chance. We’ll work it all out.” “I still need to go get some things.”

“I’ll take you tomorrow and get what you need. Please come back with me,” he urged. “Let this place heal you—let me help heal you.” He looked around, his gaze taking in the vastness of the space. “There is so much beauty and peace here.” “What about the future? My job? My townhouse?” He wrapped his arms around me, holding me tight. “Why don’t we take it in smaller chunks? Next week, a month, then decide. You shouldn’t make any major decisions right now.” “And staying here isn’t a major decision?” “No, it’s simple—because it’s the right one.” “You think so.” “I know so.” “Why?” “Because I’m here, I love you, and I want what’s best for you. Because I know what this place can do for a person, and I want you to give it a chance and see. I want you to give us a chance.” He pressed his lips to my forehead. “Forget what you think should happen. What your preconceived ideas of normal are. Let me show you another way of life, Dani. One that will fulﬁll you in ways your job could never touch.” “What will I do? Help out on the farm?” “What do you like to do? Was there something you enjoyed but never had time for anymore? Besides baking?” “I liked to draw and paint. I used to make pottery.” I shrugged self-consciously. “I liked to do things with my

hands.” He smiled against my skin. “You are good with your hands, I’ll grant you that.” I giggled, smacking his chest. “There’re lots of things here you can draw. There is a great pottery studio twenty minutes down the road. I know they o er classes. Mrs. Norton is a regular customer. I’ll call her next week, and you can check it out?” He pulled me a little closer. “I know you’re used to doing everything on your own, Dani. But you don’t have to anymore. You have me now. My family adores you and wants to help too. Let us, please.” I looked up at his earnest, pleading expression. The truth was, I didn’t want to leave him, or this place; I only felt I should. I thought I should go home and try to figure this out on my own. Take care of myself the way I’d always had to. But Noah was standing in front of me, not only o ering his support and help but his heart. His generous, open, loving heart. Tears filled my eyes as the overwhelming sensation of belonging filled me. Belonging to Noah. To this place. “Please,” I whispered. “Tell me this is real. I want to stay with you.” He crashed his mouth to mine, kissing me hard and deep. His tongue swept in, claiming me, his arms holding me like a vise. He lifted me o my feet, pinning me to his chest as his mouth worked mine, leaving me a gasping mass of shaky limbs. He swung me up in his arms, striding fast down the

road. I leaned my head to his chest, hearing his rapid heartbeat under my ear. “I can walk,” I protested halfheartedly. I really did love being held in his arms. “Those little legs of yours won’t be able to keep up, Sprout. I want you home. In our bed. Now.” “Oh,” I breathed out. He hadn’t touched me like this since my breakdown. “I need to be inside you. I need it now.” My entire body tightened at the blatant desire in his voice. “Faster, Noah. Go faster.”

At the house, Noah hit the stairs, his legs moving quickly. All the way down the road, he’d been whispering dirty things in my ear, telling me how often he was going to have me in the next few hours. Once in his room, he flung me onto the bed, my back hitting the plush mattress hard. In seconds, his clothes were discarded, and he tugged on the yoga pants covering my legs as I pulled the long sweater over my head. He used his hands and mouth everywhere—kissing, licking, biting—my neck, breasts, and ears all getting attention as I moaned and arched into his touch. He used his tongue, swirling it on my skin, licking up my neck, and finally plunging it into my mouth, twisting it with mine. He fisted my hair in his hands, grunting in approval when I wrapped my hand around his hard cock, moving it in long, steady strokes. I was on fire for him, all his dirty talk and promises leaving me panting with desire.

“Now, Dani. I want you now.” He rose up on his knees, dragging me close, and buried himself inside with a long, deep groan. He began moving— powerful thrusts that made me shudder and shake under him. He gripped my hips, his head thrown back as he surged forward over and again, groaning and cursing. I fisted the sheets, bending and arching to his movements, crying out his name when he slipped his hand between us, stroking me fast. I shattered, my orgasm burning hot and fast through me, and he hissed, yanking me tight as he stilled, roaring my name into the dark. Panting, he collapsed on my chest, wrapping his arms around me, kissing my skin. We lay wrapped around each other in the dark silence as we calmed. “Fuck, baby. I needed that.” I ran my fingers through his wild hair. “Glad I could be of service.” He cracked open one eye and looked at me. “Oh, you serviced, all right.” He rose up, hovering over me. “I’ll take my time next.” “Next?” “I hope you’re not tired, Dani. I have a lot of plans for the night, and they don’t include much sleep.” I felt the fluttering of desire stir inside me. How he could do that, I had no idea. “I’m supposed to rest,” I teased him. “You can sleep tomorrow. In fact, I don’t plan on you getting out of bed until well into the afternoon.” He waggled his

eyebrows at me. “If even then.” He grinned. “You up for that?” I shifted my leg, feeling his erection growing already. “Certainly feels like you are.” “At your service this time.” “Well then, Mr. Edwards. Whenever you’re ready.” He smirked as he brought his mouth to mine. “Let’s go then, baby.”

CHAPTER NINETEEN

DANI

y townhouse felt stu y—unlived in. I opened a couple of windows and looked around. It felt as if I were seeing it for the ﬁrst time. It was sterile, simple. There was no warmth to it—it lacked any sort of hominess or character. How had I lived here so long and not noticed? It was as if it were temporary—as if I were waiting for something. Or someone. I glanced at Noah, knowing he saw the same thing. “I’m going to sell this place,” I said without thinking. His eyebrows shot up, and he smiled. “Yeah?” “I bought this house before they were built. I never really even liked it. I’m never here. The little backyard is rarely used. The market is good right now. If—” I paused and swallowed “—if I come back, I think an apartment would be better.” “How big is that if, Dani?” he asked quietly. I drew in a long breath. “Pretty big.” He kissed me, his lips warm. “Good. Go pack some stu . Anything here you want to bring?”

“Some CDs,” I confessed. “I still like having them around.” “No problem. I have a couple boxes in the truck. I’ll pack them up.” “Okay.” I opened drawers, filling the bag I had on the bed. In my cupboard were two boxes of pictures and mementos that I hadn’t put in storage. Noah came in and saw me looking at them. “You want to bring those?” I shook my head. “I just need some clothes.” “We have lots of room.” I glanced at them again. He ran his fingers over my cheek. “How about I put them in the truck? I can always bring them back for you.” He grinned. “But I’m hoping I never will.” I nodded, and he lifted them both, carrying them down the hall. I filled one bag, then another, finally closing and zipping the cases. Noah came in, looking delighted. “Two?” “I went overboard.” He pulled the bags o weeks.”

the bed. “Less to move in a few

I followed him down the hall. “You’re so sure of yourself.” He looked at me over his shoulder. “No, sure of us.” Those words made me smile. An hour later, we left. I cleaned out the fridge, tossing out all the opened or expired food, ﬁlling a small bag with things from the freezer. Noah ﬁlled another box with the staples from the cupboard.

“How many boxes did you bring with you?” “Enough.” He smirked. Outside, we ran into my neighbor, Angie. “Dani, I haven’t seen you lately! How are you?” “Good. I’m, ah…” Noah slid his arm around me. “She’s staying with me.” Angie smiled. “How great.” She glanced over my shoulder at the boxes in the truck. “Are you selling?” “I might be.” “My sister is looking. I would love to have her close.” “Oh.” “Call me before you list, okay?” “That would be great. Um, you have a key. Could you just check on it every so often? You could let your sister see it.” “For sure. Give me your mailbox key, and I’ll get your mail and put it in the kitchen.” I hadn’t thought about that. “Great.” I handed her the key. “If she is interested, let me know.” Angie looked excited. “I will. She will. I know it!” She hurried away. We climbed into the truck, and Noah started the engine. “Well, well,” he crowed. “Isn’t that just awesome.” He grinned. “Just fucking awesome. You can sell your place, and I can have you. A win/win situation, I think.”

“Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. Her sister might not be interested.” He laughed as he pulled out into tra am way ahead—way, way ahead.”

c. “Too late, Sprout. I

I looked out the window, ﬁghting my smile. I was surprised how quickly I had jumped ahead as well.

“Where are we going?” I asked Noah. He grinned, sliding on his sunglasses. “On an adventure.” “An adventure that requires you to bring a suitcase and food?” “Yep.” “And drive my car?” “Better on gas.” “I see.” “Sit back and relax, Sprout. You’re gonna like this.” He turned in the opposite direction of Toronto, and I frowned. He’d been busy since we’d returned from my house on Sunday, working all day yesterday. Then last night, he’d informed me he had today o and we were taking a drive. Then he added a case and a couple of boxes of food to the back seat. I glanced at him again, his proﬁle sharp against the sun. He wore a half smile and turned his head, meeting my quizzical gaze. “You’re not going to tell me?”

“Nope. Put on some music and enjoy the ride.” “Maybe I’ll put on Il Divo.” He grimaced. He loved all music but opera. He said it put him to sleep. “I need to be able to drive.” “Okay, maybe a playlist.” He chuckled. “Your playlists are so random, I never know what to expect. Hit me.” I slid in the CD and sat back. Noah reached over and wrapped his hand around mine. “I love you, Sprout.” I turned my head with a smile. “I love you right back.” “That bodes well for the adventure, then.” I had to smile.

An hour and a half later, we pulled up to a small building. Noah looked excited as he unbuckled his seat belt and waited for me to join him at the front of the car. Linking our hands, we walked around the corner, and I gasped. We were at a cottage. The grass led directly to a small outcropping of rocks that dropped o to a beach. Everywhere in front of us was water. Tall pines and massive old trees surrounded the cabin. “What is this place?” “My grandparents’ cabin. My mom’s parents. I promised you some time away for your birthday. We’re here until Friday.”

He smiled, bent down, and kissed me. “Happy birthday, Sprout.” I blinked. With everything else that had happened, I had forgotten my birthday had come and gone. Noah hadn’t, though. “But—” He shook his head. “It’s all arranged. Everything is covered. I’ll be back for service on Friday, early enough to do some other work. We have three nights and three days just to ourselves. Well, except I invited Daniel and his girl Avery to come for an afternoon.” “Noah,” I whispered. “This is wonderful.” He held out his hand. “Come in and see the place. It’s nothing fancy, but I love it here. We all do.” Inside, I looked around. It was fashioned of thick, old logs. Wide planked floors. A stone fireplace was on the end wall. A small kitchen with a table, two sofas, and a couple of bookcases were all the furniture in the place. Open shelving in the kitchen made it open and airy. The short hall had two bedrooms, a mudroom, and thankfully, a bathroom. “Dad added the plumbing and electricity when we were kids and bigger places were being built, so he was able to join in on the upgrades. We added the screened-in porch a few years later, but other than painting or sealing the wood, nothing much has been done. We come here to relax and unwind. We spend most of our time at the beach, by the fire, or on the porch.” He patted the wall. “With the trees and these logs that are so thick, no matter how hot it gets, it stays pretty cool. We have a couple window air conditioners for extreme

heat, but they rarely get used. The fans move the air really well.” He pointed to the vaulted ceiling. “I love it.” He wrapped his arms around me. “Just us, Dani. We can swim, sleep, sit by the fire, and just be us.” He kissed my neck. “It’s sort of a gift for both of us.” I laughed. “I’m more than good with that.” He grinned. “I’ll get the stu , and we can unpack, take a little walk, then head into town and grab whatever else we want. Then we’re coming back, and the celebrations will begin.” “Celebrations?” “Oh yeah,” he murmured, leaning close, his lips barely touching mine. “I have even more to celebrate now. It’s going to be epic, Dani. A wild, screaming orgy of celebration. One right after the other.” I was pretty sure I whimpered. He winked as he headed out to the car. I had to clutch the edge of the counter and shake my head. I wondered how he would feel if I preferred to start the celebrations right away? The thought made me giggle. Then I pulled my shirt over my head and left it on the floor. If he wanted to come find me, I’d leave him a trail. I headed down the hall to the bedroom, dropping my shorts and tank top along the way.

He was a smart boy. He’d ﬁgure it out.

Later in the evening, Noah built a fire, and we sat watching the sun set over the water. The colors were beautiful as the sun disappeared, the night sky darkening and filling with stars. They were brilliant and easy to see, like at the farm. I felt like a small speck in the universe, staring up at the vastness. Noah nudged my foot gently. “What are you thinking about, Sprout?” I tilted my head, studying him. In the firelight, his wild hair was a mixture of gold and red, his green eyes bright in his face. He looked relaxed and happy, reflecting the way I felt. We’d made love twice, walked the beach, sat in the screened-in porch, and ate fresh corn he’d brought, dripping in butter and delicious. Then he produced cupcakes he’d bought in town, little candles on the top, and sang me happy birthday. It had been a wonderful day. “Just that I’ve never felt happier in my life.” He grinned—his wild, wickedly sinful grin that always made me clench in the best of ways. “Yeah?” he asked. “Good day?” I leaned into him. “The best.” “I got one more thing to add to your day.” He slid a long, narrow box into my hand. “Happy birthday, Dani.” I turned the box over in my hands, admiring the pretty bow. “What is it?” he asked, his voice tender.

“I haven’t been given a birthday gift since my aunt died. And she always put twenty dollars in an envelope.” I stroked the shiny paper. “I’m just enjoying the moment.” He leaned close and pressed a kiss to my forehead. “Those days are over, Sprout. I promise you.” I looked at him. “That’s the best gift of them all.” “Open it,” he urged. I carefully undid the wrapping, playfully tucking the bow behind my ear. I gasped as I lifted the lid. Inside was a beautiful bracelet. The links were set with tiny diamonds that caught the firelight and glowed. The middle was an infinity symbol—half smooth, half set with more diamonds. It was delicate, breathtaking, and perfect. “It’s how I feel about you,” he murmured. “No beginning and no end. It’s simply there.” Tears gathered and slid down my cheeks. “No, Sprout. No tears.” “This is the second most beautiful gift I’ve ever been given,” I whispered. He leaned over and wiped the tears. “And the first?” he asked with a smile, already knowing my answer. I covered his hand with mine. “You.”

Daniel and Avery arrived the next day, around noon. I was nervous at ﬁrst, but quickly warmed to them. Daniel was tall

with dark hair, incredibly vivid blue eyes, and dressed in dark jeans and a T-shirt that stretched over his broad shoulders, showing o a large tattoo on his bicep. Avery was his exact opposite. Small, pale-skinned, with hair so blond it was almost white, and soft green eyes, she looked like a gypsy with her flowing skirt and ru ed blouse. But her smile was wide and friendly, and I liked both of them. He towered over her, and she nestled into his side as if she were made to fit there. He watched her with adoration in his eyes, and they stayed close whenever they were in the same room. His nickname for her was “Sprite,” which made me smile. It suited her, and she laughed in delight when she heard Noah call me Sprout. We took a walk along the trail, then on the beach. Avery picked up a few rocks, which Daniel good-naturedly carried to the car. “She puts them in the garden,” he explained. “She loves rocks and shells.” He smiled at me. “You’re good for him,” he said, indicating Noah, who was helping Avery dig out a rock. “Oh?” “We knew each other in university. We got along well. He was always focused and driven, but once he started working, he became a stranger. I’d meet up with him, but he was so consumed with the corporate world, he’d be on his phone or texting. It was as if I wasn’t there. I’d call him, and he would be too busy to talk or call me back.” He scratched his head. “I kinda gave up.” “He knows he missed a lot.” “When he collapsed and reached out, I was horrified to know what he went through but grateful he was seeing the light. But he’s always been missing something—that final piece to

the puzzle. I think he was missing you. I’ve never seen him so happy.” “He makes me happy too.” “You two were meant to be together, just like Avery and I were.” He patted my arm. “I hope we get to see more of you.” I nodded. I liked them both. “Me too.” We ate a late lunch by the water, ﬁlling up on sandwiches and sides Noah had brought from the store and restaurant. Avery brought homemade cookies, which were devoured quickly by us all. Afterward, we sat in the sun, enjoying the early autumn warmth. Noah stretched in his chair, his arms held aloft. “I’m thinking of a swim.” Daniel frowned. “Might be a bit cold.” I shivered at just the thought. Avery didn’t look overly impressed either. Noah smirked. “Chicken, my friend?” He waggled his eyebrows. “Bawk, bawk,” he teased. Daniel narrowed his eyes. “Is that a challenge?” Noah smirked. “Seems to me, the last time I challenged you, I won.” Daniel barked a laugh. “Those were university days. You’ve gone soft since then.” “You wanna bet on that?” Daniel stood, yanking o

his shirt. “You’re on.”

I blinked at his tight torso, the muscles rippling in his arms. Noah joined him, tugging his shirt over his head. I blinked

again. Noah bare-chested was a sight to behold. They both dropped their jeans, neither of them embarrassed or worried. I met Avery’s wide eyes. Their shoes followed. “Last one in buys dinner.” “Last one out buys drinks!” And they were o , running, pushing at each other like children and ﬁnally diving into the water, their bodies breaking the surface at almost the same time. Avery and I began to laugh as their heads appeared and they both howled from the cold. “Serves them right,” Avery muttered. “But what a show.” I chuckled. “Amen to that,” she said, and we clinked co ee cups.

The boys swam around, insisting once you were used to it, the water wasn’t bad. Avery and I stayed where we were, enjoying the sun. They floated around, catching up for a while, then waded out, agreeing to call the bet a draw. I handed them towels, and they wrapped themselves up, sitting down to dry o in the sun. Daniel linked his fingers with Avery’s, seemingly unable not to touch her when they were close. “How did you two meet?” I asked Avery. She grinned. “My friend was overseeing filming a social experiment project. You had to kiss a stranger for thirty

seconds. One of her volunteers canceled, and she begged me to take her place.” “Thank God she did,” Daniel mused. “I might be sitting here with a clown.” Avery poked him, and he laughed. “Teasing, Sprite.” He winked at me. “My girl hates clowns.” “I don’t blame her. Scary little fuckers,” I added at the same time Avery said it. We laughed and high-ﬁved. “So, you kissed Daniel…?” I trailed o . “It was pretty intense. As soon as we kissed, it was like an inferno.” She shook her head. “I was so nervous before, I almost backed out.” Daniel grinned and reached into Avery’s pocket, pulling out a mint. With a wink, he slid it between her lips. “She told me later she couldn’t decide if she was more worried about me being a closet clown or having bad breath.” “Halitosis,” she corrected, making us all laugh. “When I’m nervous, I eat mints. By the time Daniel kissed me, I had eaten twelve in less than thirty minutes. I only had one to spare in case I needed it for him.” She glanced at him, love blazing in her eyes. “But he was perfect.” Daniel stroked her cheek. “She’s the perfect one.” Then he smiled at me. “We’ve been together ever since.” “I love that! What a great story.” Avery smiled. “And you guys?”

I smiled. “I got lost…” I trailed o , meeting Noah’s intense gaze. “And he found me,” I ﬁnished. Noah lifted my hand and kissed it. “And I’ll never let her go.”

CHAPTER TWENTY

DANI

THREE WEEKS LATER

oah turned his head at the sound of the door opening, his face breaking into that smile. The one he had only for me. Warm, brilliant, and so wide, his eyes crinkled at the corners. He came out from behind the counter, his arms opening, pulling me close and nuzzling the top of my head. “Hey,” he murmured. “I missed you. How was your day?” I grinned up at him. “It’s been four hours, Noah.” He dropped a kiss on my cheek. “Four long ones. I made you lunch.” “Good. I’m starving.” He drew me to the deserted restaurant, lifting the bag o shoulder. “How’d it go?”

“Good.” He placed a sandwich in front of me. “Got some things to show me?” I smiled. He was always so anxious to look at my drawings or see if I’d brought home one of the bits of pottery I’d started making. I was still shy showing him since I was so out of practice, but I was proud of today’s pieces. I reached into my bag and dug out the set of bowls I’d made. Swirls of emerald-green, gold, and brown decorated the surfaces, the edges ﬂuted and smooth. “Dani, these are gorgeous,” he stated, lifting one up to examine it. “What a great design.” “It reminds me of your eyes,” I admitted.

“Yeah?” He grinned. I nodded. “When you’re happy, the green glows so vividly. If you’re close enough, you can see the ﬂecks of gold and brown around your pupils.” He leaned over, kissing my lips. “You’d be the only one close enough for that, Sprout.” Pushing my plate closer, he smiled. “Eat.” He examined the bowl some more, running his long ﬁngers over the pattern I’d created as I tucked into my sandwich. “Mrs. Norton said I should make some more pieces using the same pattern.” He nodded. “She’s right. It’s unique and really eyecatching.” He winked at me, and I giggled at his subtle joke. Then he became serious. “You could sell these.” “No, I couldn’t.” I sco ed. “Who’d buy a pottery bowl I made?” “A lot of people.” “You said the same thing about my watercolors. You’re biased, Noah.” He shook his head. “Callie and my mom agree. You have an amazing eye, Dani. This could be your direction.” “My direction?” “I have a nice area in the back garden. We could build a studio. You could paint, draw—even do your pottery if you wanted.” “And?”

“Sell it in the store. We were talking about that a few weeks ago. Adding some local artists to the one corner—letting them sell their wares. We’d move the store merchandise around during the o -season to fit it in. You could be one of them.” “You think I should paint and do pottery as what…my job?” He winked at me. “And bake for the restaurant. Maybe we could sell some of those cookies you made last week in the store as well. I bet they’d go fast.” I pushed away my plate. “That’s it, isn’t it? You want me here. You’re trying to find ways for me to stay here.” He didn’t even look ashamed at being caught. “Yes.” I swallowed, forcing the words out. “I’m supposed to go back to work soon.” He leaned back in his chair, crossing his arms. “Is that what you want, Dani? Do you want to return to SB Corp? Leave me and go back to the life you had? Working all the time, so stressed you let your body start to fall apart? Chained to your desk, alone all the time?” He waited a moment. “Well?” I stared at him, surprised. He’d never been so blunt or direct, and he’d never used that cool voice before now—I didn’t like it, but it made me think. I thought about returning to work and what it would mean. It only took another moment for my reaction. My heart sped up, and my hands clenched at the thought of leaving here— leaving him. Walking in the doors of that high-rise building so early every day. It was dark when I arrived and dark again when I finally left at night. The endless hours spent there and nothing else in my life. No Noah—no warm glances and gentle caresses. No solid shoulder to lean on when I was

tired. No understanding glances when I needed to talk. Only emptiness. My chest tightened, and my gaze ﬂew to Noah, who immediately leaned forward, cupping my face, his voice back to the warm tone I knew. “It’s okay, Dani. We’re just talking. Calm down. I’m right here.” I dragged in a deep breath. “I can’t go back,” I whispered, knowing it was the truth. I could never go back there. I didn’t want to be without him anymore. Wherever he was, was where I wanted to be. I wanted to mesh my life with his. He shook his head. “No, you can’t.” “But I don’t have anything to o er, Noah,” I gasped out, my panic still lingering. “It would take me all winter to make enough pieces for you to sell anything—if they even sold. How would I contribute?” In a second, I was in his arms, wrapped up in the warmth of his embrace. “You would give me you, Dani. I need you with me. Here. I can’t stand the thought of you living miles away and only seeing you occasionally. Tell me you feel the same way.” “But—” “I meant what I said weeks ago. I would come live with you if you were happier there. But I don’t think you would be.” “No,” I admitted. “I don’t want to go back. I want…I want to stay here. With you—with your family. I just don’t understand how I can.”

“You can help out a million ways here. You love to cook and bake, and you can help Mom and Ella with the preserves, make the desserts. Paint, draw, do your pottery. If you want more, you could help with the ﬁnancial end of things.” “This is your family’s farm—you told me yourself—the running of it and the business stays in the family.” Tilting his head, he studied me quietly. He tucked a loose piece of hair gently behind my ear and ran his ﬁnger down my cheek. “We’ve already discussed this as a family, Dani. They know my plans, and they’re on board with them.” “Your plans?” “I want this place to feel like your home. To be your home.” He drew in a deep breath and laid my hand on his chest where his heart beat, strong and sure. “I fully intend on you being family, Dani. I plan on making you my wife one day, if you’ll have me.” My eyes widened at his quiet statement. “Are you…” I trailed o weakly. He shook his head, a shy smile on his face. “No, I’m not asking you today. I think I can do better than asking you to be my wife over a half-eaten sandwich on a Tuesday afternoon. I’m just giving you all the information you need to make a decision. The right decision. You can make a life here with me. Do something you enjoy. Be with the person who loves you more than anyone else in this world.” He smiled and kissed me tenderly. “Me.” He stroked my cheek. “Together, we can do anything. I want to look after you, and I need you to look after me. No one else does it as well as you. I need you, Dani.”

My mind raced at the possibilities he was suggesting. Leave Toronto and the corporate world behind. Give up the strange half-life I lived, where most of my time was spent behind a desk surrounded by people I barely knew. Change everything I knew, sell my townhouse, and move here with him. Live in a small, rural town, in a log house where the stars shone so brightly, you thought you could reach out and touch them. Fill my days with baking, painting, and creating small pieces of pottery, supported not only by Noah, but by a small group of people who cared about me—truly cared. Knowing that every night I would end my day wrapped in the embrace of the man holding me now. The man who had already changed my life so dramatically and only asked for one thing in return. That I stay with him and return the love he surrounded me with. Give him and this life he o ered a chance. “I need you too, Noah.” “Is that a yes?” “I’m not sure what question I’m answering.” “Stay with me?” “Yes.” “Build a life with me?” “Yes.” “Can we have lots of babies?” “I think you missed a question,” I whispered, my voice shaky. “I’m saving that one.”

I blinked at him. “You want babies with me?” “Yes. I’d like a few, and I really want a girl. A little miniyou.” I couldn’t stop the smile on my face. He wanted a few babies. With me. “Yes, one day, we can have lots of babies.” His mouth was on mine instantly, his arms encircling me tightly. That was when I realized it. I didn’t have to wait for this place to feel like home. Because Noah was here, it already was.

A week later, I looked up at the tall skyscraper, a long shudder running down my spine. Noah slid his arm around my waist, pulling me against him. “I’m right here, Sprout. You can do this. Remember your breathing exercises and the end goal. Three steps. Go in. Sign the papers. Clear out your o ce.” He tightened his hold. “You’re not staying. This is just a few moments, then we’ll head back to the place you belong.” Turning my head into his coat, I breathed in a long, calming breath. His scent soothed me; his touch grounded me. He was right. This was the last step in this journey. I had called HR to inform them of my decision not to return. I was shocked when I was told the company had a severance package for me and extended my beneﬁts for another six months. Mrs. Tremblay gave me a choice—come in, pick up

the severance package and payment, and clean out my o ce during business hours, or she could arrange to meet me after hours. I chose six o’clock, knowing many of the sta would have left, but it wasn’t too late that I would keep her from going home at a reasonable hour. I relaxed when she assured me that I would only see her and Lynn. “Martin will not be in the building. He asked me to express his thanks for your hard work and wish you well.” I straightened my shoulders. “Let’s go.” Inside, we headed to my old o ce. Lynn was waiting, ﬂinging her arms around me and hugging me hard. “I’ve missed you.” “Me too.” “Can I come see you now? I won’t talk shop, but I miss you.” I was surprised but pleased. “I’d like that—but I’m not living in Toronto anymore.” She grinned. “Not a big surprise. Give me your new number when you get it, and I’ll call.” Mrs. Tremblay came out of my o

ce.

“I’ll take Noah in and show him your stu ,” Lynn o ered. I nodded. There wasn’t much—I had only brought a small box with me. Mrs. Tremblay was all business and kept it short and sweet, explaining the package and the beneﬁts. I signed the paperwork, handed her my pass card, keys, and cell phone. She came to the o ce with me, where Lynn and Noah were talking quietly. Lynn looked up.

“There wasn’t much. A few toiletries, your stress balls, and a couple of blouses and a pair of shoes in the cupboard. You had a couple of knickknacks on the shelf. Have I missed anything?” I glanced around, noting it didn’t look like anything had been removed. I met Noah’s knowing gaze. Another familiarity between us. I checked my drawers, then shook my head. “No, that’s all.” We left the o ce, Lynn following us. At the elevator, Mrs. Tremblay shook my hand. “Best of luck, Danica.” I wasn’t used to hearing myself called that name anymore. I smiled and thanked her, then hugged Lynn again. “Call me— or better yet, come see me.” “I will.” We stepped in, and Noah took my hand, holding it tight. The doors shut, and he glanced my way. “Okay, Sprout?” I hu ed out a long breath. “Take me home, Noah.” He smiled. “My plan exactly.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

NOAH

ani padded into the kitchen, running a hand through her hair. Her tresses were chaotic and messy this morning. I grinned at her from the stove as I ﬂipped her favorite stu ed French toast. “Don’t think you’re going to get it to lie ﬂat, Sprout. I think that’s my fault.” “You were rather handsy last night,” she agreed, pressing a kiss to my cheek. “You were rather beautiful. I couldn’t help myself.” She poured a cup of co ee, spying the empty plate on the counter. “Found your treat I left you?” I nodded. “Last night’s desserts were spectacular. What an awesome way to end the season. Mom said the voice mail was full this morning with people asking if they could buy them for the holidays. Both the cranberry-cherry pie and chocolate-caramel cheesecake. I can’t decide which is my favorite.” “Oh,” Dani hummed, looking pleased. “I could do that.”

Dani was always looking for ways to “contribute.” Leaving her job had been a huge step for her—even scarier than it had been for me when I’d made that decision. Dani was used to being on her own and having no one to depend on, whereas I knew I had my family, as well as the fact that I had a very large nest egg to fall back on. She’d sold her townhouse with a small profit since she’d only had it for a few years. With her severance package and the monies she’d saved, she was okay, but it wasn’t enough to carry her for any length of time if she would have been on her own. But she wasn’t on her own, and I planned on taking care of her—as much as she would allow me. She wanted to pay her “fair share” of the bills, so I insisted she had to be paid for her work in return. She was everywhere on the farm, helping. In the store, the restaurant, working in the greenhouses. Making jams and preserves with Mom, cheese with Ella. We reached a compromise, and every month she went over the numbers with me, making sure they were fair. And as always, she was more worried about the bottom line than I was. She hu ed every time I crossed out a number and added to it on her side of the column, but she’d stopped fighting me. She secretly made me smile, and I loved her independent streak. I carried the French toast into the living room and sat on the floor, patting the space between my legs. Dani nestled between them, holding the plate, and I fed her the French toast, enjoying the fire and the sprinkling of snow falling outside the window. “This reminds me of our first morning together,” she murmured. “Outside on the deck.” I slipped the last bite of breakfast between her lips. “Yeah, it does. I thought inside might be a little warmer today,

though.” She hummed in agreement, sipping her co ee. I set aside the plate, took her cup from her hands, and wrapped her in my arms. “I loved sharing that morning with you, Dani. Making you breakfast.” She snuggled closer, peeking up at me over her shoulder. “Me too.” “I have a favor I need to ask you.” She turned slightly, her lovely eyes wide with curiosity. “Anything, Noah.” I slipped my fingers under her chin and pressed a small box into her hand. “Would you let me make you French toast every week—for the rest of our lives?” I paused, swallowing. “Will you marry me, Dani?” “Noah,” she whispered, tears filling her eyes. “You make me happy. I want—I need—to be where you are. I want to marry you and build a life together. Say yes, baby. Say yes to us, to this life. To being happy.” She cupped my face, the tears in her eyes reflecting her happiness. “Yes.”

SIX MONTHS LATER I heard the truck pull up, and a grin broke out on my face. Dani had been gone most of the day, and I missed my wife. I could be with her twenty-four hours a day and never tire of her company, but I knew she needed a break from me on occasion, and today had been one of her pottery days. We were married a month after I had asked her, right here in the restaurant, surrounded by my family and a few close friends, including Lynn and my old assistant Tom, who couldn’t keep their eyes o each other. They were planning their wedding now, and it was going to be a much larger production than we had chosen. Our smaller celebration was the happiest day of my life— Dani’s as well, she told me. Her smile certainly said as much. I looked up as she came in the door, her gaze immediately seeking me out and her beautiful smile lighting her face. She wasn’t the same woman who’d stumbled in here, shy and tense on that late-summer day, and changed my life. Her panic attacks were nonexistent now, her smile wide and her eyes happy. She personified contentment. She fit so well into the groove of my world and thrived, therefore expanding my life even more. My family adored her, and they now belonged as much to her as I did. She completed my world in ways I hadn’t expected, filling every dark corner with her light and love. “Hey, Sprout.” I grinned, taking the box from her hands and dropping a heavy kiss onto her mouth. “You look very happy.” “Hi.” She beamed up at me. “I am happy.”

“Did they turn out well?” She nodded, excitement dancing in her eyes. “Well, let’s have a look, then.” Setting the box down, I opened the lid and pulled out a mug, holding it up to the light, the greens, browns, and golds glinting and bright. “Beautiful.” Dani had made me a co ee mug, using her design on it, which she had named “Glimmer of Love.” A customer came in, saw it on the counter, fell in love with the pattern, and ordered three dozen for her shop in Toronto. That was only the start. Soon, she commissioned other pieces to match, and Dani was busy making them, as well as more mugs since the woman couldn’t keep them in stock. I was glad we had patented the design since Dani was in such demand. She had other pieces in our “Local Merchant” area I had set up in the corner of the store, as well as some of her watercolors. All of her work sold well, and I couldn’t be prouder of her. Mrs. Norton was thrilled as well. Her shop and kilns were busy with Dani’s work. She used the small studio I’d built her to paint and draw, but she still enjoyed going to the pottery studio to create her pieces and oversee the production of the larger orders since she couldn’t handle doing them all herself. She was very particular, using only certain artisans. Each piece was inspected by her very demanding eye, and she herself did all the underglazing design work. My wife had found her place, and she was brilliant. I slipped the mug back into the box. “Perfect, baby. I like the new shape.” “Mrs. Norton thought it would sell well. It feels good in your hand.”

I cupped her head, bringing her face close to mine. “You feel good in my hand.” I nuzzled her lips softly. “I missed you today.” “I missed you.” “Yeah? Then you’ll be happy to know Gabe and Ella are taking over for the weekend, and we’re going away.” She smiled, pressing her hands together with glee. “Are we going to the cottage?” She loved the cottage. Since I had taken her there for her belated birthday last year, we’d returned a couple of other times. She loved the rustic, homey cabin, and it was a perfect hideaway for us. The farthest we went once we got there was the small outcropping of rocks that overlooked the water— Dani loved watching the waves in the daytime, and at night, I built us a ﬁre and we cuddled under a blanket, often sharing a glass of wine. Only us—my wife and I—and all the time in the world to reconnect with no interruptions. It was our favorite place, aside from our home. “Yes, it’s all booked. We leave in the morning.” She ﬂung her arms around my neck. “I love you.” I held her tight. “I love you, Dani.”

The ﬁre glowed bright against the dark of the night, the ﬂames burning a brilliant yellow and orange. Dani was snuggled into my arms, her back pressed to my chest, a blanket draped around us to make sure she didn’t get cold. She’d been sleepy all day and very cuddly—my favorite kind of Dani, especially when we were alone at the cottage. We’d

made love, slow and sweet after we arrived and again later in the afternoon, losing ourselves in each other under the light blankets and staying nestled together after in the postorgasmic glow. We’d gone for a short walk but decided against a trip in the small boat the cottage came with. Her brow had furrowed, and she’d muttered something about pushing her luck and opted for another snuggle under the blankets. I was more than okay with that. We cooked dinner over the open ﬂames, sharing the same plate and fork, the food always tasting better when we ate that way. Everything in life became better when shared with Dani. Leaning over her shoulder, I pressed the wineglass against her lips, frowning at the tiny sip she took. She’d hardly drunk anything, aside from the bottle of water she’d asked for. “It’s your favorite, Sprout. Not in the wine mood tonight?” She tilted up her head, giving me a smile. “Not really.” I ran my hand over her hair, cupping the back of her head. “Are you all right, Dani? You’ve been rather quiet today.” Her lips quirked as she bit back a smile. “I thought I was pretty vocal earlier.” “Well, you had your moments,” I admitted with a grin. “But the rest of the time, you’ve been…o .” She half turned in my arms. “I didn’t mean to be. I’ve just been, ah, thinking.” My heart clenched a little at her words. “Is something wrong? Talk to me, baby. Whatever it is, I want to help.” Reaching up, she ran her ﬁngers over my face, cupping my cheek. Turning my head, I kissed her palm.

“You always want to help, don’t you?” she murmured in awe. “You always want me to be okay.” “Anything you need. Always, Dani.” “You look after me so well.” “That’s because I love you.” She drew in a deep breath. “You asked me once to try this life with you. A way of life I didn’t really understand. I was so scared about all the unknowns. To leave behind what I was accustomed to and try something new.” “I know. The trust you put in me, in us, was humbling.” “You showed me something amazing. I love our life. I love you, Noah.” “What are you telling me?” I whispered, my voice tight. Something was going on—I could just feel it. “I want to show you something amazing now.” She reached into her pocket. “Hold out your hand.” Shaking, I did as she requested, staring down at the small pea she placed in my palm. Confused, I looked at her. “Do you know why it’s so amazing?” she whispered. “No,” I admitted. Her eyes glowed in the ﬁrelight, ﬁlled with love and a joy I didn’t understand—yet. “That’s how small your baby is right now.” The meaning of her words hit me—the wineglass went one way, and I thought the blanket ended up in the water below us. All I knew, all I felt, was my wife wrapped in my arms, my head buried in her neck as I wept with joy.

I was going to be a daddy. My Sprout, my Dani, was pregnant. I lifted my head, meeting her watery gaze. “Are you okay? Is everything…” “Yes. Everything is good. I’m fine.” She nodded. “Tired, and a little emotional at times, but fine. I haven’t even had any morning sickness—which I hear is a bonus.” “Are you happy?” She smiled tenderly and took my hand, pressing it to her flat stomach. “Happy? Noah, happy isn’t a big enough word. I’m carrying your child—our child. Nothing could make me happier.” “Say it,” I pleaded. “I want to hear you say it.” “I’m pregnant. You’re going to be a daddy.” My fingers spread wide over her stomach, unable to stop touching her. Our child was there. Right there under my hand, growing. “How far along?” “About six weeks. It’s pretty early.” Lifting her shirt, I bowed my head, pressing my lips to her skin. “Hi, little pea. It’s Daddy. I can hardly wait to meet you. I’m going to love you so much.” Looking up at Dani, I smiled, despite the tears still running down my face. “I already love her.” “It could be a him.”

“It doesn’t matter. I love our little pea.” I looked around. “Hey, where is my other little pea?” Dani laughed as she looked around, picking it up and holding out her hand to show me. “Right here. You have thousands of them growing at home.” I took it from her hand, shaking my head. “Nope, this one is special. I’m framing it.” She giggled. “That explains the wine and the sleepiness. Anything else I should know?” She drew in a deep breath. “I can’t be around the studio when the kiln is on, and I have to be careful with the glazes.” “No pottery, then. You can paint.” “No, Noah. I’ll be careful. I checked online, and the glazes I use are safe. I’ll wear a mask and gloves too, as a precaution.” “I don’t want you to overdo it.” “I won’t. I’ll only ﬁnish the orders I have, and then I’ll stop. I promise.” “When can we tell people?” “Soon.” She tilted her head with a wry smile. “Can you keep it a secret?” I shrugged sheepishly. “I’ll try.” Her eyes shone with mirth. “So, our family will know the day we get back.”

My chest warmed at her use of “our family,” but I had to agree. She knew me too well. They knew me too well. “I’ll try,” I repeated. “They might…guess.” She started to laugh. “Yeah, one look at your face and I think they will.” Her voice dropped a little. “I don’t have to ask if you’re happy about this news.” I beamed at her, cupping her face and drawing her close. “No. I’m ecstatic. Beyond ecstatic.” I looked down at my hand still resting on her stomach. “You, me, and our little pea. It’s the start of our family, Dani. I’ve never been happier than I am at this moment.” I kissed my wife, holding her close. Encircled in my arms was my whole life. My family.

EPILOGUE

NOAH

he hospital ward was quiet, the halls deserted at this time of the night. I looked over at my sleeping wife. Twenty hours of labor and a few scary moments for both of us had totally exhausted her. She’d tried desperately to keep her eyes open but ﬁnally gave in to my pleading and allowed herself to fall asleep. I couldn’t sleep, my emotions too close to the surface—my joy too much to contain. All I wanted to do, all I had done since she was born, was hold my daughter. Lily Kristine Edwards screamed her way into the world, fussing and wailing until they placed her in my arms. Then she turned to my chest, snuggling and content, staring up at me, blinking and looking like a sleepy owl, including the tuft of wet hair on her head that glinted golden brown. The love I had felt for her while Dani was pregnant was nothing compared to the all-encompassing wave of emotion I felt in that very moment. I’d thought I was prepared. When we found out the baby was a girl, I was beyond thrilled and expected to bond with her strongly, but not like this. It seeped into every molecule of my body, and I knew I would never be the same. As deeply as my love for Dani had changed me, this love would direct me for the rest of my life.

I ran my finger down her downy, pink cheek. She was perfect. My little pea. She was tiny—only weighing in at six pounds—but she was healthy. Her hair was decidedly golden brown like mine, but her eyes were a darker blue like her mother’s. She was truly a mix of Dani and me. “You need to put her down and get some sleep, Noah. She’ll be awake again soon and want to be fed.” I smiled at my sleepy wife, carrying Lily over and gingerly sitting down on the edge of her bed. “I can’t let her out of my arms.” “She loves her daddy already.” “Her daddy loves her.” Leaning over, I nuzzled Dani’s pale cheek. “He loves her mommy, too. So very much.” I kissed her again. “But you are the one who needs the sleep. All I did was let you break my hand. You did all the tough stu .” She giggled, a small grimace crossing her face as she shifted. “Sorry about the hand.” I flexed my sore fingers. “You are freakishly strong, woman.” “So it would seem.” “Do you need something? Pain meds? Are you hungry? Mom left you food.” “I’m thirsty.” “Gabe brought you some of his iced tea. Or there’s water.” “Iced tea, please.” I was already pretty good at doing things one-handed, and I gave Dani a small cup of the beverage, smiling as she sipped

it with a sigh of pleasure. “You don’t need some pills?” “No, I’m good.” “You’ll tell me as soon as you do?” She smiled at my fussing, nodding and smiling indulgently at me. “I can hardly wait to go home.” She wrinkled her nose. “I hate the smell of hospitals.” “I can’t believe they’ll let you leave so fast.” “Everything went fine, Noah. I can rest better there.” “Not fine,” I corrected gently. “You’ll be sore for a while.” “But I’ll recover better at home.” “You’ll have lots of help,” I admitted. My mom, Ella, and Callie were so excited, it was crazy. Dad, John, and Gabe had to drag them out of the hospital last night, and they were already discussing schedules and who would do what and when, acting as if I wouldn’t even be around. I had no plans on being anywhere but with my girls until Dani ordered me away, and even then, I’d only move to the next room, preferably with Lily in my arms. For the first time in many years, I didn’t care if crops got harvested or if Mrs. Johnson got her cucumbers for her special pickles. All that mattered were the two most important women in my life. “You should go home and sleep.” “I’m not leaving.” I sco ed at the ridiculous notion.

“Then give her to me and sleep for a while.” I had a better idea. I reluctantly released Lily into Dani’s waiting arms, kicked o my shoes, and slipped in beside her, tucking her against my chest, letting her shift until she was comfortable, then draped my arm around her, gently caressing her head. The bed was narrow, but Dani was so tiny and I tucked her tight, and we fit well enough. I kissed Dani’s soft hair and smiled at my girls. I stroked Lily’s clenched fist, grinning when she latched on, closing her tiny fingers around mine. Dani’s body relaxed as it did every time I was close to her, and soon, she was asleep again. Lily grunted and cooed, content on Dani’s chest. Relaxed and happy, I shut my eyes. I’d nap for a while, help Dani with Lily’s next feeding, and a few hours after that, I could take them home. My wife, my daughter—my family. My perfect harvest.

Thank you so much for reading HARVEST OF LOVE. If you are so inclined, reviews are always welcome by me at your eretailer. Writing for the Insta-Spark Collection is always a joy. Sometimes life needs a little sparkle and I hope Dani and Noah brought a smile to your day. If you’d like another glimpse into Dani and Noah’s future, click below to grab a little more time with them - Extended Epilogue Harvest of Love available at Bookfunnel: https:// BookHip.com/BSWWXPR

Keep reading if you would like to learn more about Daniel and Avery’s story in IT STARTED WITH A KISS.

AFTERWORD

According to Beyond Blue, up to 40 percent of the population will experience a panic attack at least once in their lifetime. If you believe you su er from panic attacks or need help with managing your symptoms, reach out to your health care provider for a referral. You can also contact ADAA to ﬁnd help. https://adaa.org/

Here is a sneak peek at Chapter One of It Started With A Kiss CHAPTER 1 AVERY “I swear, Avery, Ryan does this thing with his tongue . . .” Beth’s voice trailed o and her eyes glazed over. “I came so hard I saw stars.” I glared at my best friend, dropped my fork, and held up my hands in supplication. “For God’s sake, Beth, I’m trying to eat here.” Not at all worried over my reaction, she smirked. “I’m just saying.” “I know what you’re saying.” I lowered my voice as I looked around, feeling self-conscious. “You and Ryan have a great sex life. I don’t. I get it.” She speared a forkful of salad and lifted it to her mouth, chewing as she regarded me thoughtfully. “When’s the last time you got laid?” I exhaled hard. “I think Justin Trudeau’s father was Prime Minister.” “Since you weren’t even born then, I doubt that.” I shrugged. “Let’s just say it’s been a while.” “You’ve been on a few dates since you broke up with Grant.” She eyed me with concern. “That was over two years ago. Surely you’ve had sex since then.”

I dug my fork into my salad with a little more force than necessary. It had been a long while. “A few dates, yes. But, no, I haven’t.” “You didn’t sleep with any of them?” “No.” “What about that guy you said you hooked up with at the bar a few months ago? You even messaged me. No good?” I squirmed a little in my chair and picked up my iced tea. I had texted her while slightly tipsy, thinking it was funny. “Hook up may have been too strong a word.” She narrowed her eyes. “What word works then?” “Well, we did hook up. By that I mean, the key ring I keep clipped on my purse caught his sweater. I had to spend a couple moments unhooking the clip as he berated me for being so careless and causing his precious cashmere garment damage.” I lifted one shoulder in embarrassment. “Strangely, he didn’t ask me out after that happened.” Beth blinked at me, then threw back her head in raucous laughter. I chuckled at her mirth. For someone so outwardly elegant and classy, she had the most guttural, dirty laugh I ever heard. She wiped her eyes with her napkin. “Oh, Avery. Only you. What am I going to do with you?” I shook my head. “Nothing, Beth. I’m not like you. Sex, for me, is private and—” I waved my hand around, trying to ﬁnd the right word.

“Non-existent,” she finished. “I’m okay with that.” She regarded me fondly, then shook her head. “I worry about you sometimes. You’re such an introvert.” I smiled, brushing o her concern. “I get out, Beth. I’m not the social butterfly you are, but I don’t sit in my apartment all the time.” “I know that. You take care of all your elderly neighbors. You run them around, take them grocery shopping, help them in their homes. But I’m not sure that is enough.” My throat tightened. “I like doing that. I’m comfortable with them. They make me feel needed.” “I know. But who is looking after Avery?” “I’m fine.” Wanting to get the focus o me and back onto less personal ground, I changed the subject. “How’s work lately? You’ve been so busy, I’ve barely heard from you.” “I know. This latest assignment has been driving me crazy. There’s a ton of paperwork and the interviews have been endless. I just want to get in there, then film and put it together.” “What is—” Her phone vibrated on the table cutting o words.

She looked at the screen, mumbling a curse. “Sorry, I need to take this call.” I dug back into my salad while she answered the phone. I pushed through the lettuce and tomatoes looking for more of the grilled chicken, coming up with one tiny piece. Grudgingly, I speared it with some lettuce, ignoring the

tomatoes. I didn’t like tomatoes. And really, why call it a “grilled chicken salad” when there was scarcely any chicken? It should be called “big bowl of salad with a teasing glimpse of chicken.” I pushed back the bowl, not wanting any more. I studied my best friend as she spoke on the phone. Beth was tall, elegant, and refined; at least until she opened her mouth. Her long hair was a deep chocolate brown, hanging to her shoulders in smooth waves. Her makeup was perfect, her hazel eyes piercing and shrewd. She was passionate, driven, and talented. However, at the moment, she was also incredibly pissed o . “Fucking great,” she mumbled, tossing her phone on the table. “I swear the stress of this shoot is gonna kill me.” “What’s wrong?” “Another volunteer canceled. We’re set to shoot tomorrow and I’m down a person.” “Surely you have backups?” “That was my final backup.” I patted her hand. “You’ll figure something out. You always do.” She stared at me for a moment, nodding as if she had made a decision. “I need a favor.” “What?” “I need you to be my replacement volunteer.” “What would I have to do? Help cart stu ?” I had done that for her on previous occasions. It was always fun.

“No. You’d be in front of the camera this time.” I blanched a little. “Oh, um, doing what exactly? I’m not an actress.” “I don’t need you to be an actress. I need you to be Avery.” “And do what?” “Kiss a stranger.”

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Many thanks to my behind the scenes, eagle-eyed team. Beth, Trina, Melissa, Peggy, Deb, Avery, Sharon, and Carol— you all bring something so di erent, so positive to the process. I appreciate your input and your support. Lisa—thank you never covers it. It’s all I got because I cannot send you baked good boxes. You seem to have the market cornered on those. Karen—my guru of technology. The keeper of the scary social media stu . The organizer who tries to keep me in line —you usually fail, but damn you try hard. Good job. Kim—ditto the above. My reader group, Melanie’s Minions—love you all. Melanie’s Literary Mob—my promo team—you do me proud and I love our interactions. Your support is amazing and humbling. Thank you for asking for this story. To all the bloggers and readers. Thank you for everything you do. Shouting your love of books—of my work, posting,

sharing—your recommendations keep my TBR list full, and the support you have shown me is deeply appreciated.

ABOUT M MORELAND

M Moreland is a pen name for NYT/WSJ/USAT international bestselling author Melanie Moreland. She loves writing contemporary romance and needed to find a home for her bit of naughty along with the nice. Insta-Spark collection from M Moreland are complete standalone reads with one thing in common - lots of sweetness and a guaranteed HEA. Instant attraction, little angst - love and happiness abounds. Melanie lives a happy and content life in a quiet area of Ontario with her beloved husband of thirty-plus years and their rescue cat, Amber. Nothing means more to her than her friends and family, and she cherishes every moment spent with them. While seriously addicted to co ee, and highly challenged with all things computer-related and technical, she relishes baking, cooking, and trying new recipes for people to sample. She loves to throw dinner parties, and enjoys traveling, here and abroad, but finds coming home is always the best part of any trip. Melanie loves stories, especially paired with a good wine, and enjoys skydiving (free falling over a fleck of dust) extreme snowboarding (falling down stairs) and piloting her own helicopter (tripping over her own feet.) She's learned happily ever afters, even bumpy ones, are all in how you tell the story. Melanie is represented by Flavia Viotti at Bookcase Literary Agency. For any questions regarding subsidiary or translation rights please contact her at flavia@ bookcaseagency.com Connect with Melanie

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