“Have you ever been to Inspiration Point?” Trev asked.
Leah shook her head. “I’ve lived here all my life and driven past it a hundred thousand times but never stopped.”
“Should we remedy that?” Trev grinned at her over the soft roof of the BMW.
His enthusiasm was infectious. Leah nodded. “Maybe it’s a good thing I’ve never been there before. Now I get to share it with you.”
Trev winked at her. “My thoughts exactly.”
Trev helped Leah settle into the passenger’s seat; the leather surrounded her as if molded for her body. Once Trev was behind the wheel, he pushed a button on the dash, and the car’s roof collapsed on itself behind the back seat. They drove the five miles to the point in the light of the waning sun.
Gravel crunched under the tires as they pulled to the side of the road, the breeze of the evening moving through Leah’s hair and brushing against her face. Once parked, Trev helped Leah from the car, his hand enveloping hers. Already, Trev’s touch was beginning to feel comforting and familiar.
Strolling to the fence line, Leah watched the parents of two little girls wrangle their children into a maroon minivan. The kids were eventually buckled in their car seats, babbling questions the whole time. Leah smiled. The girls reminded her of Hunter and Hudson. Everything was new and exciting, and they loved asking about their world.
Once the minivan pulled onto the road, Leah turned her attention to her surroundings. An antique store hugged the side of the ridge, but Leah didn’t want to go inside. Instead, she hurried with Trev to the viewpoint that overlooked the green, lush valley below, a mix of rolling hills, meadows, and thick green woods. The White River meandered through the land like a silver ribbon laid over green velvet. Houses and farms dotted the landscape, and Leah imagined families preparing for evening, feeding their animals, making dinner, and settling in for the night. Wildflowers, yellow and lavender, dotted the green cliff just below the fence. “This is beautiful,” she gushed.
Trev placed his arm around her shoulder and drew her to his side. “We get busy with our everyday lives, and we forget the splendor at our feet. I’ve only been here once.”
“With Desiree?” Leah asked.
“No,” Trev replied. “Desiree never saw this place. She didn’t care much for nature. I stumbled across it one day on my own, when I needed to get away from work and wanted a change in scenery.”
Looking west, Leah was bathed in the orange light of the sun as it inched toward the horizon and its final resting place for the day. Clouds banked against part of the southwestern sky, their charcoal-gray threat lighting up pink and fuchsia in the waning light, taking away their ominous appearance.
“That’s the second storm I’ve seen in the last few days,” Trev stated. “But we’ve yet to have one hit us.”
In spite of the glorious sunset, Leah’s eyes stayed with the thunderheads. “Oh, it’s coming. They always do.” She paused. “I don’t like storms.”
“Why not?” Trev asked.
Leah shifted in his arms. “They’re unpredictable. I never know where it’s going to hit or how much damage it’ll do.”
“Maybe so.” Trev turned Leah to face him, tilting her chin. “But this one won’t hit us tonight. I promise,” he murmured as he lowered himself to her.
Leah closed her eyes and sought the tenderness of his kiss, along with the warmth of his embrace, where she found refuge from whatever internal storm brewed. She trembled in his encircled arms, but Trev only pulled her closer, and Leah basked in his loving presence.
It didn’t matter that they were on a road where any driver who happened by could see them swallowed up in each other’s arms. Leah didn’t care. All that mattered was Trev’s lips caressing hers and his warm body tight and solid as she drew him near.
A bird called from somewhere in the forest, and another answered. Leah closed her eyes and leaned against Trev as her earlier tension melted with his sandalwood warmth. There wasn’t any way to predict her and Trev’s future or what would become of this fresh new love between them, but Trev helped Leah feel safe. Still, she pulled away from him, eying the gathering thunderheads.
“I guess we need to get back home.” A trace of reluctance carried in Trev’s voice.
Leah hesitated. She wished to stay wrapped in Trev’s arms, but the storm gathered in strength, and without the sun to brighten the iron-gray clouds, they gave off an ominous foreboding. There wouldn’t be any stars tonight. Leah shivered as she turned away from the tempest. “I think you’re right. I’d like to check on your folks before they go to bed.” She glanced at the sky. “And I need to get home.”
Placing his arm around her, Trev steered Leah toward the car. He opened the door of the convertible and helped Leah settle in. As he made his way around the back of the car, the clouds overtaking the darkening twilight rumbled with thunder, pulling at Leah’s attention once again. The earlier playful breeze that had caressed Leah’s skin a few minutes before now brushed against her with purpose. On the wind, Leah caught a whiff of hard rain as a flash of lightning bolted across the thunderheads, quickening Leah’s heart.
Trev started the car and pulled onto the road, and Leah breathed in relief. Whatever punch this storm would produce, Leah desperately hoped they’d be able to outrun it.
Chapter 15
Ten days later, Leah woke up to a text from Trev. I’ve got to leave early today for an emergency meeting with the tenant in Colorado. I won’t be home until around ten this evening. Would you mind coming in early and spending the night? I’d feel better if you were with my folks while I’m away.
Leah hurriedly sent a reply text, telling Trev she’d pack a bag and be there as soon as possible.
She quickly showered and dressed, winding her long blond hair into a bun before making the drive to The Cove. Like always, she needed to come to a complete stop at the security hut and roll down her window to explain her presence.
Elton Phillips stood at her window, clipboard in hand. “Name?”
“Leah Thomas.” The fledgling irritation bloomed into outright indignation as Elton traced his pen down the list as if he didn’t know her. Every minute spent in the company of Elton made for one less minute spent with Trev. Marking his list, Elton slowly moved into the hut and pushed the lever to open the wrought-iron gate. Leah clenched her teeth. Who does he think he is? He doesn’t live in these grand homes. She took a deep breath as she came to the Sweetheart Tree. It calmed her throbbing nerves, helping her settle down as she pulled into Trev’s drive. Pushing in the emergency brake, she barely had time to get out of the car as Stephen began easing the Bentley out of the garage.
Trev hurried to her from the front door, pulling her close; the clean scent of citrus shampoo mingled with sandalwood and fresh clothes was as soothing as their embrace. Trev looked sharp in his tailored suit and silk tie, and she almost pinched herself over her good luck of having his arms around her.
“I’m sorry I’ve got to go today,” he murmured as he gave her a little squeeze around her waist. “I was looking forward to spending some time with you. If you don’t mind waiting up, I’ll be home by ten.”
“I’ll wait for you,” Leah promised breathlessly.
Trev lightly kissed her lips, the taste of mint coming through, making Leah wish for more in spite of Stephen’s presence.
“The folks usually go to bed at nine,” Trev stated.
“I’ll see to their care,” Leah replied.
Trev’s relief flowed through her. “Thanks. I appreciate it.” He stepped through the door of the Bentley that Stephen held open and rolled down the window. “I’ll see you tonight.”
Leah nodded before catching Stephen’s twitching smile. He winked at Leah before closing Trev’s door.
Leah hurried inside, where she was greeted by Sanders, who gave her a twinkling grin. “Mr. and Mrs. Michaels are in the breakfast room.”
Leah threw him a grateful smile. “Thanks, Sanders.” She hurried past
the kitchen, the smell of sausage, eggs, and French toast following her as she made her way to the breakfast room. The windows were open, and the morning breeze flowed from the lake and into the bright room, the palms dancing in the light air.
“We appreciate you coming in early. We’ve saved you a seat and asked Josie to make you some breakfast,” Paul said.
Leah gave him a smile. “Thanks.” She sat down and began working on the fresh, hot meal. The French toast melted in her mouth, and the sausage was the perfect complement to the maple syrup.
“So, what’s on the agenda today?” Rebecca asked.
“Is there anything special you’d like to do?” Leah asked.
“Not really,” Rebecca said. “Although I’d like to get out in the garden a little earlier from now on. With July’s heat, the mornings are starting to get warm.”
“Absolutely. Let’s go right after breakfast.”
“That’ll be perfect.” Rebecca grinned while cutting a piece of sausage from her plate.
The sound of footsteps coming down the hall made Leah look up. Allison appeared, dressed in designer pajamas. Her hair was in a ponytail that was supposed to look as if it were pulled back without much thought, but it’d probably taken at least twenty minutes to perfect. She narrowed her eyes at Leah as she sat down, but she said nothing.
Leah glanced at Rebecca and Paul, but both were working on their breakfast and didn’t see Allison’s mean glare. Maybe they were used to her behavior.
“What’s on your agenda today, Allison?” Rebecca asked.
“I’m doing a haul on sleepwear,” Allison said as Marguerite slid the plate in front of the girl. She didn’t look up.
Leah said nothing. Even though the conversation was between family members and didn’t involve her, Allison’s treatment of her parents still rankled Leah. She pushed the worry aside. If things went on as they always did, she wouldn’t see Allison for the rest of the day—although because she was spending the night, she’d have to tolerate her during dinner.
After the meal was over, Leah followed Paul and Rebecca outside. Paul was barely using the walker. As they came near their favorite bench in the garden, Paul placed his walker on the side of the path. “I’m ready to give up this darn thing.” With his wife on his arm, the couple made their way the last several feet toward the bench.
Leah followed behind, carrying the walker in case Paul changed his mind or would need it to get back to the house. Once they were settled, she left them alone for their shared garden time. When she returned, Paul was determined to walk all the way to the house without the walker. It took them twice as long to make the short trek, but it was worth the triumph.
Once in the house, Paul wiped his brow. “That was hard, and I’m going to take the elevator up to the bedroom.” He grinned. “But I’ll be back on those stairs this afternoon.”
Leah smiled at Paul’s pride and her own satisfaction. “Progress won’t be a straight shot,” she said. “But you’re definitely on your way.”
For Leah, things couldn’t be going any better. Paul and Rebecca were improving almost daily, and she and Trev were building what she hoped would be a strong foundation for whatever they decided to create together.
“After we shower, let’s settle in for some reading before taking our nap,” Rebecca said.
Leah agreed and got things on the deck ready for the couple. Several minutes later, they came down and settled in their chairs, reading their novels.
Leah pulled out one of her textbooks. She wanted to be as prepared as possible for the upcoming school year by reviewing what she’d learned. But in spite of her best efforts, the words on the page did nothing but swim into an alphabet pool. Every coherent thought traveled on the thread that bound her to Trev. The memory of their ardent and loving kisses replayed so often, she expected the memory to wear out. Instead, each recollection grew stronger and more vivid. This morning’s light kiss only fed her desire for more of him.
She watched Rebecca and Paul. What had Trev told them about his relationship with Leah? Leah considered their time spent in town and how Rebecca had encouraged her to ride with Trev. Had his mother known the outcome would be a shared story and kiss?
Rebecca yawned, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. “Oh my. This heat is making me tired. I think I’m ready for a nap. What do you say, Paul?”
“I’m all for it.” He stood, refusing his walker.
The two of them rose from their chairs, and with Leah in tow, they made their way slowly up the stairs.
Leah stopped with Rebecca and Paul at their bedroom door. Rebecca turned toward her. “Trev tells us you’re staying the night, since he’ll be home late. He took the plane to Colorado to see a tenant. Did he show you the guest room?”
Leah shook her head.
“You’ll be right next to us,” Rebecca said. “Go ahead and give yourself a tour of your room. We usually go to bed around nine, but don’t feel like you have to follow our schedule. You have free run of the house, so please make yourself comfortable in whatever you choose to do.”
Leah appreciated Rebecca’s warmth. “Thank you.”
After settling Rebecca and Paul in their room, Leah opened the door to the guest bedroom, a tiny gasp of awe escaping her. The room was practically the size of her apartment and elegantly appointed with plush carpet, a lovely king-sized bed piled high with linens and pillows, and an antique dresser and nightstand with an expensive-looking table lamp.
Hurrying to the large French doors, she stepped out onto the balcony overlooking the lake. A table with an unlit candle stood in the corner, flanked by a couple of chairs, but Leah didn’t linger there. She hurried back inside to the bath, where she flipped on the light. The room sparkled with travertine tile on the floor, a huge porcelain sink, and the biggest tub Leah had ever seen. I could get lost in that tub. A large shower stall, encased in warm beige marble and glass, hugged one corner.
Moving back into the bedroom, Leah took in every detail. The carpet encouraged her to throw off her shoes. Everything about the room invited her to stay: the custom crown molding, the pops of red and navy in the pillows on the plush bed … All of it gave off an air of pampering appeal.
Checking her watch, Leah hurried from the guest space. Her bag was still in the breakfast room, and she was eager to grab it and settle in while Paul and Rebecca napped.
Almost reaching the stairs, she was startled by Allison, who came from her bedroom. “Leah.” Her voice was hushed. “Come in for a minute.”
Leah stopped, her guard rising. What would Allison want with her? It certainly wasn’t her opinion on fashion. Leah wanted to giggle as she thought about the socks on her feet. When Trev had left this morning, his feet were also encased in socks. It must make his sister crazy.
Following Allison, Leah bit her tongue to stay the laughter as she entered the woman’s bedroom. The walls boasted a sweet pale pink, and a large canopied bed stood against the wall opposite the balcony with French doors. The soft gray textured comforter was a shade lighter than the tufted headboard.
The open walk-in closet caught Leah’s attention. The space was stuffed to overflowing with purses, coats, shoes, and many other articles of clothing, filling every corner of the cavernous space. A large white vanity in the corner was covered in containers of makeup, hair products, and appliances, and the air held the scent of an unfamiliar heavy and spicy perfume, giving Leah an instant headache. She tried to blink away the pain gathering behind her eyes.
“Sit down for a minute.” Allison cleared a chair for Leah.
Leah furrowed her brow, trying to think beyond the overwhelming fragrance and her pounding head. What was going on? There was nothing friendly about this visit. Allison wasn’t asking for Leah’s company; she was demanding it. Leah’s earlier desire to laugh scattered to the vacuumed silence and throbbing irritation that came with Allison’s company.
Allison turned off her computer and focused on Leah, her eyes cool. “I saw you with
my brother that night on the dock.” Allison bobbed her head toward the French doors. “I look over the dock.”
“Oh?” Leah’s palms began to sweat, but she kept her breathing steady.
Allison moved to her bed and sat cross-legged. “You will never take Desiree’s place in his heart. He loved her.”
A niggling worry buzzed inside Leah’s head above the strobing headache. She tried not to breathe the heavily perfumed air. “Of course he loved her. I’m not interested in taking Desiree’s place.”
“You looked interested when I saw you with him down at the lake, and I’m sure you were extremely interested in the ring he gave you.” Allison dropped Leah’s gaze and traced the quilt of her bedspread with her finger.
An uneasy shiver ran through Leah. Allison must’ve spied on them. What exactly had she seen? Leah wished to brush Allison’s words aside. What did it matter? She and Trev didn’t need Allison’s approval, and the ring belonged to him. “I’ve told you what I’m not interested in, but what I am interested in is none of your business.”
Allison took a long steady breath, a sad coldness taking over her expression. “Maybe not, but Trev is my business—as is Desiree’s ring, which should’ve come to me if he didn’t want it any longer.”
The headache retreated a little as a possessive attachment for the ring thrust itself on Leah. She clenched her fist. Trev had given it to her. He’d had ample opportunity to pass it along to Allison, and he’d made a different choice. “If you’re not happy with any of Trev’s decisions, I suggest you take it up with him.”
Allison’s voice was barely a whisper, but that didn’t diminish the force of it. “Oh, I plan to. But just a little hint for you—do you really believe that my brother, owner and CEO of Michaels Enterprises and Properties, is going to marry someone who doesn’t come from the same stock, someone who drives a beat-up old Volkswagen and whose family sweeps floors and fixes cars? Can you really think my brother is going to marry his parents’ caregiver?” Disbelief rang in Allison’s tone as it rose in volume and pitch.
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