Connor reached out and gently plucked the skin by her wrist. “There. I did it. And it doesn’t change the fact that you earned this distinction. Kudos, Ella.”
She raised a hand to her cheeks. Warmth flooded her face. She wasn’t sure if it was because of his compliments or his close proximity. It was getting harder and harder to ignore that Connor North was dangerous to her equilibrium.
“So, do they hang up a photo of me in the chocolate shop? I can’t wait to be queen for a day,” she teased.
“Yeah, we like to make a big deal out of it. We’re going to shout it from the rooftops. We’ll put your picture up in the store and at the factory. Then we’ll place it on the company website and add it to our monthly newsletter. You’ll be famous by the time this month is done.” He let out a low chuckle.
“It’s going on the internet?” Ella asked, swallowing past the lump in her throat. All of a sudden her heart began beating a fast rhythm within her chest. No! she wanted to scream. She couldn’t run the risk of her face being plastered on the internet. Although it was unlikely the people who wanted to harm her would ever see it, she wasn’t willing to take a chance. If Burke and his cohorts got a lead on her whereabouts, they wouldn’t hesitate to track her down in Owl Creek. The very thought of it made her shudder.
“Maybe. I’m not really sure,” Connor answered. “Hey. What’s wrong? Aren’t you happy about this?”
“O-of course I am. I just don’t like all the attention that comes with it.” She bit her lip as her mind raced with how to explain her sudden wariness about the distinction. She had been over the moon about being employee of the week until discovering there might be online fanfare.
Connor frowned. “You’re confusing me. I hope you understand this is a good thing. You aren’t trying to hide your light under a bushel, are you?”
She shook her head. “In what way?”
“It’s something my grandfather used to say. Basically it means don’t hide your talents or abilities. Let them shine. The Bible verse comes to mind. ‘Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works.’”
She was familiar with the Bible verse, but Isabelle didn’t see herself reflected in it. She wasn’t hiding her light. Isabelle was trying to preserve her status in WITSEC by not being exposed.
Isabelle nodded and continued to nibble her meal. At this point it tasted like sawdust. All she felt was a growing sense of dread. She didn’t know how she could do this for the long haul. Would she ever be able to sit back and relax without feeling as if a dark cloud was hanging over her head? Would she ever not wake up terrified in the middle of the night? And now, just when things had started to solidify for her in Owl Creek, she was being plunged back into fear, doubt and second-guessing herself.
If her picture was plastered all over the internet, would she need to leave town? She felt a pang in her heart at the idea of packing up and leaving. Where would she go? And how could she leave everything behind?
“I hate to eat and run, but I have a conference call this afternoon.” Connor’s comment drew her out of her thoughts. She hoped he hadn’t noticed her inattention. She’d deliberately stuffed down her feelings regarding her commendation going online. She couldn’t afford to make a scene about it or betray her deep concerns. There were already too many instances where she’d acted strangely in his presence. Connor was a smart guy. He’d probably picked up on her odd behavior. It was only a matter of time before he began to question what was going on with her.
She looked at her watch. “Oops. Where did the time go? I need to head back to the shop. Thanks for the lunch invitation. And for giving me such great news.”
“Well, thanks for joining me. And again, congratulations. It says a lot about you that you earned this praise.” Connor seemed genuinely happy for her.
“It means a lot to me. Please tell Beulah how thrilled I am.” Isabelle warmed at the compliment. She did feel proud, and she hoped Connor had been able to see her happiness despite her shattered nerves.
Connor pulled out some bills and plunked them down on the table. He walked with Ella to the exit. As they stood outside, Ella tilted her face upward. Snowflakes were falling gracefully from the sky. If only she could just enjoy this beautiful moment instead of worrying about her status in the Witness Protection Program. She longed to cast all her troubles aside and simply live the way other people did. Without fear or regrets.
“It was very thoughtful of you to come deliver the news in person,” she said. “I appreciate it.” She had been telling herself all this time she couldn’t afford to feel anything for Connor, but at moments like this one her will was being tested. Being with him always made her feel good.
He handed her the bag he’d brought with him. “I like seeing you smile, Ella. It was my pleasure. I hope to see you soon.” As Connor strode off in the direction of the factory, Isabelle paused for a moment to admire him. She liked the proud tilt of his head and the way he carried himself. Once he turned the corner and disappeared from view, her mind began to whirl with worry.
She needed to call Jonah immediately. This was definitely an emergency situation that called for her to contact the U.S. Marshal. Her entire cover could be blown if her picture was circulated online. Isabelle dug in the side pocket of her purse and pulled out her cell phone. Jonah had programmed his number into her phone when they’d parted ways. Isabelle walked to the parking lot behind the chocolate shop and made her way to her truck. Once she was inside, she placed the call.
As soon as she heard the familiar voice on the other end, Isabelle spoke into the phone. “Jonah, it’s me, Isabelle Sanchez. I don’t know what to do! My employer might be uploading my picture online. I might have to leave Owl Creek.”
Chapter Ten
Connor looked around the crowded tea emporium and pondered sneaking out the back entrance. He felt a bit out of place with all the frilly lace and velvet cushions. He thought Tea Time was a wonderful business for Owl Creek, but he’d never really been tempted to sit down and indulge in an afternoon tea party. Connor had to admit that Iris and the bridal party had created a lovely ambience.
“How did I get dragged into a bridal shower?” Connor asked. He turned to question his brother, who was standing next to him.
“Because you were invited. Just like I was,” Braden answered. “And you didn’t want to let Piper down. She’s the only sister-in-law you’re ever going to have.”
“I didn’t realize these things were now coed.” There were a decent number of men who’d showed up for the event. Way more than he’d envisioned. Gabe and Hank were across the room having a disagreement over tea flavors. Since Gabe’s mother owned Tea Time, he was an expert on the subject. Hank, on the other hand, adored tea and considered himself a connoisseur.
“Me neither, but I’m making the best of it. Piper deserves a nice surprise.”
“Speaking of the blushing bride-to-be, what time is she expected to arrive?” Connor asked, studiously trying to avoid the flirty looks he was receiving from across the room. Lana Travers had been trying to get him to take her out for the last few months. Although she was attractive and sweet, he simply wasn’t interested. Now that Ella had arrived in town, he’d lost interest in dating around.
Braden glanced at his watch. “In ten minutes or so. She thinks we’re meeting for a romantic high tea.”
Connor snickered. “That in itself should make her suspicious. You’re not the tea emporium type of guy.”
“That’s not true!” Braden protested. “Just because I’m into outdoor adventures doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate the finer things. I’m a Renaissance man.”
Just as Connor opened up his mouth to dispute his brother’s comment, he spotted Ella walking into the tea shop. She was carrying a gaily wrapped present in her arms. Trudy Miller, Piper’s mother, greeted her at the door and whisked her toward the coatroom. Connor stood up straight an
d smoothed his hair back.
“Has something gotten your attention? You haven’t heard a word I said.”
He turned back toward Braden. “I’m sorry. What were you saying?”
Braden was shaking his head and chuckling. “She’s very pretty. Ella, right?”
“Yes. She really is,” he answered, not bothering to pretend as if he hadn’t been distracted by Ella’s arrival. “I haven’t known her very long, but she’s different from any woman I’ve ever met.” He felt sheepish admitting it. “I probably sound ridiculous. Most people view me as this perpetual bachelor, don’t they? I’m not supposed to have feelings.”
“I’m not most people, Connor. I’m your brother. I happen to like this side of you. And I wish more people could see that your greatest asset is that big old heart of yours.”
“It’s my own fault for always playing it cool. That gets old after a while,” he admitted. He couldn’t blame others for viewing him in a certain way when he’d earned the title. Now he was hoping to go a different route. Lately, he’d prayed a lot about it, asking God to shoulder him through his journey.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
The passage from Proverbs 3:5–6 had been his cornerstone as of late. He’d been reciting it every day without fail.
“Just remember, it’s never too late to change,” Braden said. “Follow your heart. That’s what I did with Piper.”
Follow your heart. That’s what it boiled down to. His head over his heart. All the doubts he had about Ella had prevented him from pursuing her romantically. But in doing so, wasn’t he coming from a place of fear and suspicion? It felt as if he was allowing his own family’s tragic past to shape his actions. Just because one person had done a horrible thing didn’t mean he should be suspicious of all strangers. Was he biased against Ella because of Sage’s kidnapper, a single woman who’d come to town and stolen his baby sister? Was he allowing a twenty-five-year-old tragedy to cloud his judgment?
“You’ll figure it out,” Braden said, clapping him on the shoulder. “I’m going to check in with Piper just to make sure she’s running on schedule.” He held up his cell phone as he walked toward a private area.
Just then, Ella walked into the main tearoom wearing a cornflower blue dress and a pair of black heels. She radiated a bright and festive air. She looked over at him and waved, right before heading in his direction.
“Hey, Connor. I’m surprised to see you here.”
“Not as surprised as I am to be here,” he said with a laugh.
“I’ve never been to a coed shower, but I like the idea of it. Why shouldn’t your brother share in the revelry?” She looked around. “Should we be getting in position to hide? Sage said this is a surprise party.”
“Braden is checking in with Piper. She’s supposed to arrive anytime now.”
“It was nice of your sister to invite me. I’m afraid I don’t know Piper very well. I think Sage felt sorry for me since I’m new in town.”
“No, that’s not it at all. She was a newbie in town once, so she knows how it feels to be out of the loop. Plus, I saw you hanging out at the dog mushing event with Piper, so you’re not strangers. What you might not have realized yet is that you’re really not an outsider for very long in Owl Creek. You’re part of the fabric of this community now.”
A grin broke out on her face. “That’s good to hear. It makes me feel better that I decided to come today. I almost chickened out.”
“I’m awfully glad you didn’t. Seeing you was a nice surprise for me.” As soon as the words tumbled off his lips, he wondered if his comment sounded sappy. Or too flirty? Just as Ella opened her mouth to say something, Piper’s mother raised the alarm.
“Piper is right around the corner. Everybody hunker down,” Trudy shouted.
Everyone began shuffling around and ducking out of sight. Connor found himself crouching down beside Ella behind a table. They were so close together he could smell a sweet aroma emanating from her dark tresses. He could hear the light sound of her breathing. Their faces were so close to one another that Connor could see the light flecks in her brown eyes. From where they were hiding, he could see Braden walking toward the entrance to greet Piper. The room was eerily quiet as Piper walked in and Braden welcomed her with a tender kiss. As soon as Braden led her toward the dining room and uttered the words, “You look lovely,” all of the guests popped up and shouted, “Surprise.” Piper looked around the room with an expression of utter shock stamped on her face. She then burst into tears. Braden lovingly placed his arm around her as she thanked everyone for gathering in her honor.
Connor looked over at Ella. A look of pure radiance emanated from her. Seeing her so happy and at ease caused a groundswell of emotion to rise up inside him. It was evident she was starting to feel a sense of belonging, despite second-guessing her invitation.
If he hadn’t fully realized it before, it was now stunningly obvious. Ella Perez had a hold on him. And for the life of him, he wasn’t sure what to do about it.
* * *
With the bridal shower tea party in full swing, Ella couldn’t think of a time when she’d had more fun celebrating an upcoming wedding. Her cheeks hurt from smiling so much, but she couldn’t rein herself in. Being at Piper and Braden’s celebration made her feel included. Seeing the couple being celebrated by the whole town was heartwarming.
Connor was one of the good guys, and he deserved far better than a woman who might spend the rest of her life hiding her true identity. Connor came from a strong, loving family who lived their lives out in the open. He wasn’t a man who abided secrets. He’d told her as much when he had spoken about Sage’s abduction. A man like Connor North wouldn’t want to have anything to do with her if he knew she was living a lie.
The other day had been a nerve-racking experience until Connor had later informed her that her picture wasn’t going to be placed online on the company website. He’d agreed to only list her name and her award. She couldn’t help but feel that he’d sensed her extreme discomfort and made an adjustment. Isabelle had quickly contacted Jonah to update him on the news. Although the U.S. Marshal had clearly been relieved by the update, he’d been very firm in telling her to keep her guard up and to continue to stay alert to any potential situations that might compromise her identity. Getting reassurance from Jonah that she was safe made all the difference in her state of mind. It had allowed her to attend the bridal shower and cast her fears aside, at least temporarily.
At the moment she was trying to enjoy the festivities and bask in the happy vibe in the air. She took a sip of her tea, marveling at the unique taste and the elegant gold-and-pink teacup and saucer. There were so many lovely details here on display. The refreshment table was filled with finger sandwiches, scones, croissants and tarts. A two-tiered cake had been placed in the center of the table. A plentiful assortment of teas sat on another table. Everything was lavishly displayed in soft and inviting colors.
“It’s so great to see you here.” Ella turned toward Rachel, who was standing alongside her with her mother-in-law in tow. Iris reached out and enveloped Isabelle in a tight hug.
“I’m so glad to see you’re making yourself at home,” Iris gushed. “There will always be a table for you at Tea Time.”
“That’s so kind of you to say, Iris. Everything is so beautiful here. I love this lavender tea. I’ve never had anything quite like it.” Isabelle took another sip of the fragrant tea.
“It’s also a favorite of mine. We actually have favors with tea packets inside, so you can take some samples home with you,” Iris said.
“That’s a perfect party favor,” Isabelle answered. She looked over at the refreshment table, where Connor was standing with his parents.
“He’s a good-looking man, isn’t he?” Iris asked, jerking
her chin in Connor’s direction. She turned her gaze to Isabelle, shooting her a questioning look.
“Umm, yes. He’s all right, I suppose,” Isabelle said, trying to keep her voice neutral.
She knew how small towns worked. If she raved about Connor’s dark good looks, the townsfolk would soon be talking about her and how the new girl in town was crushing on the heir to the North Star Chocolate Company. Her face felt flushed just thinking about how embarrassing it would be if Connor got wind of any chatter. She was supposed to be keeping her head down and maintaining a low profile. Being the subject of matchmaking schemes or gossips wouldn’t aid her objective.
“Just all right?” Iris asked in a voice full of outrage. “Ella, I think you might need glasses. Connor North is Alaskan eye candy.”
Rachel playfully swatted at her mother-in-law. “Iris! Stop it. You’re incorrigible.”
Iris stood up straighter and puffed her chest out. “I might be a woman of a certain age, but there’s nothing wrong with my eyesight. He’s as single as a dollar bill, Ella. And from the looks of it, he’s always ready to mingle. Beulah is hoping he’ll settle down and focus on one woman instead of hopping from woman to woman as he’s always done.”
Isabelle did her best to hide her discomfort. Although Iris clearly adored Connor, she wasn’t putting him in the best light. Clearly, Isabelle’s impression of Connor had been far from reality.
“He sounds like a player,” Isabelle murmured. She shouldn’t be surprised. Men who looked like Connor often had their pick of women. It didn’t hurt that he hailed from a prominent family and held an executive position at North Star Chocolates.
Rachel none too subtly jabbed Iris in the side. “We don’t want Ella to get the wrong idea about Connor. He’s a good man.”
“Of course he is. It’s not his fault he’s cut a huge swath through all the women in town. Ever since he was young, he’s been the object of every girl in town’s affection.”
“Umm, hello. Not mine,” Rachel interjected. “I always had my eye on a certain pilot.”
Hiding in Alaska Page 12
