Colonial Offer (The Sampson Series Book 1)

by Lane,Lena

  “Sarah,” Jackie yelled back from the kitchen, “please have some mercy on me!”

  “It’s your own damn fault,” Sarah shouted back, “now it’s stuck in my head.” But she stopped singing to apply her lipstick. She looked in the mirror, pulling the sides of her hair forward to frame her face. She walked back to the kitchen. “So, how do I look?”

  Jackie smiled and admitted the truth. “You’re gorgeous.” That was quite the compliment, coming from such a goddess herself. Jackie was an exceptional beauty with her flawless cappuccino complexion and huge doe eyes. “Far too good for this guy.”

  “Shush, you.” Sarah reached for her small bag and phone just as the doorbell rang.

  Not wanting to let it go, Jackie whispered as Sarah headed for the door. “Who takes someone on a date on a Tuesday night? It’s ridiculous.”

  Sarah didn’t reply, just waved her hand at Jackie, dismissing her angrily. “Go away,” she mouthed. Soon after, she opened the door.

  Before her stood Dave in all his glory, a middle-aged man with pale blue eyes and light-brown hair wearing a good suit. Sarah had a flashback to another man with blue eyes in a suit. Only that one was tall and broad shouldered, while the man who stood in front of her was her height and a little… Softer, she mused. Oh, Sarah, that was not nice.

  “Good evening, Sarah.” Dave smiled sweetly. “Are you ready for our adventure tonight?”

  “Hi, Dave.” She smiled in return. “Absolutely.” She pulled the door closed behind her. She hooked her arm through his and they walked together down the front steps of her condo. After they’d gotten in and Dave had started the car, she asked, “So, what treat do you have planned for us tonight?”

  “Well, what do you think about going to see that new dinosaur movie? It’s been getting some good reviews.” He glanced quickly in her direction before adding, “Then we could go out for some sushi. What do you think?”

  “Oh my, raw fish!” Sarah said nervously. “That is quite the adventure.” She blinked rapidly at him, wondering if it was too late to call the night off.

  “Nah,” he told her with a wide smile, “it’s not all raw. Trust me on this, they have all kinds of good food.”

  Maybe I could fill up on popcorn at the theater… “Okay.”

  As he maneuvered onto the road, Dave unexpectedly reached for her hand. She looked at it, felt the smooth skin and wanted to pull her hand back. Since she didn’t want to hurt his feelings, she let him, though looked for a reason to pull away. No such reason presented itself, so for the twelve minute ride—she counted—they held hands. By the time he pulled his hand away to navigate parking the car, she was reconsidering this date for the second time.

  Sarah’s popcorn proved to be her salvation twofold. First, by eating most of it, she felt too full to eat any raw fish, and second, Dave couldn’t hold her hand when it was in the popcorn bucket. She’d shrugged at him when he looked for it during the movie, lifting the bucket while giving him what she’d hoped had been a sad look.

  She didn’t understand her reaction to him today. They’d gone out a few times within the past few months and they hadn’t been bad nights. They’d chatted about their jobs and laughed over similar experiences they’d had in the real estate world, his from a mortgage perspective, hers from a sales point. They’d talked about their backgrounds, their dislike of horror movies, and their adoration of cats. What had gone wrong?

  Laughing blue eyes under straight blond brows flashed in her mind. Oh, my God… How many times had she thought about him today? How much sleep did she lose these past few days because of him? Forget it. It’ll never happen again, so just forget it. But she couldn’t. Her mouth had suddenly gone dry, so she took a sip from her soda, a very long sip. Focus on Dave.

  It had been a few days since the showing and Bobby hadn’t called her yet. Buying a house was a major commitment, and Sarah knew that he and his wife needed time to make a decision. In the meantime, she’d come to the conclusion that good times with Scott would probably never happen again. They’d had some fun together but that was it. They were done.

  Was she looking for a long term partner? A husband? It wouldn’t be a bad idea. She had Jackie, but Jackie wouldn’t keep her warm at night. Sarah snickered. Jackie would keep Sarah warm at night if she’d let her. Jackie didn’t discriminate when it came to her partners, but Sarah preferred hers a little more masculine.

  Dave was masculine. Out of the corner of her eye, she looked at him. He would make a wonderful long term partner. Possibly even a good husband.

  Dave must have felt her eyes on him because he looked at her and gave her that sweet, endearing smile of his. Sarah returned it, if not so enthusiastically. His lips weren’t as thin as some but not as full as others. The memory of another pair of lips flashed before her, but she immediately ignored it. And really, Dave was… Okay, not handsome, but certainly not ugly, not at all. His features were perfectly balanced, his chin quite masculine. He was perfectly average.

  Sarah turned her attention back to the film and blinked repeatedly, focusing on what was going on. She realized she must have missed quite a lot during her musings because she didn’t know why the people on the screen were running and screaming. Oh right, dinosaurs.

  Soon enough, the movie was over.

  “So, what did you think?” Dave asked earnestly as they were leaving the theater.

  “It was very exciting,” Sarah lied with a grin. She had no clue. It might have been an amazing movie, but she hadn’t watched it. She’d been lost in her own thoughts.

  “Oh, I’m glad you liked it.” He placed his hand on her back, leading her away from the doors. “Do you mind if we walk? The restaurant’s not too far.”

  Sarah remembered another time when another man had put his hand on her lower back. That one had sent shivers up and down her body. This one was just… It just was. There was no spark, no passion.

  “Not at all,” she said truthfully. It was a gorgeous night, the summer air just cool enough to be comfortable. She breathed deeply and looked up at the sky, enjoying the stars. They took a leisurely stroll through the shopping center where both the theater and restaurant were located, and chatted about nothing important.

  Abruptly, Dave stopped walking. “Sarah.” He gently took her hand and looked deep into her eyes, “I meant to tell you, you really look lovely tonight.”

  She blinked at him, uneasy at his earnest tone. “Thank you.”

  “I think we’ve been having a good time together and,” he hesitated for a breath, “I think I’d like us to move to the next level.” He nodded at her. “What do you think?”

  Next level? What level were they on? Nerves woke the dragon in her belly and it began to dance within her, spinning the popcorn in her stomach. They’d been to a few dinners together but she’d never considered them actual dates. Had she misinterpreted their outings? Had he thought more was going on between them? All this time, she’d thought of Dave as a good business partner, not as a possible romantic mate. Not until tonight, anyway.

  “I… uh…” Sarah smiled, grasping for words, “I think we should see how dinner goes tonight.” Nodding eagerly. “I’m quite famished.” She lied again. She needed time to think things through. Did she want to pursue a future with Dave? As they walked, her mind wandered.

  Scott had gotten her to daydream like a school girl. With two meetings, he’d turned her world upside down. Now, her nights were a little cold, a little lonely. Sarah was no longer happy just living her life. Jackie was no longer enough. Business partners like Dave and other agents she met in her daily life were no longer enough. She wanted more. Like maybe a man who knotted her belly up, who made her explode with just his tongue, who made her forget to act like a professional. She wanted Scott, but he was a little out of her league. Maybe Dave would be good for her? Oh, Jackie is going to have a field day with me.

  Her mind was forced back to the present when they reached the packed restaurant. It must be the place to go after
the movies, she thought as she looked around and saw some faces from the theater. Dave, the planner that he was, had called ahead and gotten a reservation, so they were seated fairly quickly. The waitress came and took their drink order, and Sarah reviewed the menu.

  True to his word, a lot of the items listed were cooked, Sarah noticed with relief. He made some suggestions, and she agreed to them. It was only reasonable, since she didn’t know any better. Besides, it was only food. If she didn’t like the dishes, she’d never have to eat them again, so she decided she’d give the place an honest chance and try everything they ordered, or at least a bite of each.

  Loud, happy shouts and clapping started in another room, and she spun to take a peek.

  “Hibachi,” Dave said. “Maybe next time we’ll go there. They put on a show with knives and fire. It’s pretty cool. You get to see your food getting cooked right in front of you.”

  “Oh,” Sarah said, still trying to get a glimpse. “That does sound like fun,” she said absently.

  “Hey, I know you!” Unexpectedly, a tall blonde, her large bosom barely contained by her red strapless dress, leaned down and gave Dave a big kiss on the cheek. Waves of silky hair covered them both for a quick moment before long fingers brushed the tresses back from her face, bright red nail polish catching the light. Laughing joyously with mirth dancing in her mischievous blue eyes, she made a silly face at Sarah before returning her attention to Dave.

  Rather than feeling jealous that a gorgeous blonde was kissing her date, Sarah was amused by his shocked expression. Relaxed, she sat back and watched the drama unfold.

  “Oh my goodness, Sharon!” Dave returned her grin and stood to give her a hug. “It’s been a while, how are you?”

  “I’m good, honey,” she replied, embracing him with a smile, “how about you?” After a good couple of seconds of hugging, they separated.

  “I’m, ah…” He turned to Sarah, suddenly remembering she was there, and ran a hand through his own hair. “I’m great. Hey, Sarah, this is my cousin Sharon. Sharon, this is Sarah.”

  Ah, family. Sarah leaned forward and waved a friendly greeting. “Hi,” she said, smiling.

  “So, I’m not going to intrude long on your date but I just had to come by and say hello.” Sharon said to Dave, putting her hand on his forearm. “You must come to the Fourth of July party at Papa’s house. We’re going to have fireworks and it’ll be fabulous. You must come.” Turning to Sarah, she extended the invitation. “And Sarah, as well, of course. You’re both very welcome.”

  “Oh, that’s very sweet, but—” Sarah began to decline but Dave had other plans.

  “Yeah, that’d be a great time for Sarah to meet the family.” Dave smiled at Sarah.

  She honestly didn’t want to meet his family, at least not yet. They’d probably get the wrong impression. Still, he was so happy about the idea that she would feel terrible ruining his joy. She didn’t have the heart to say anything else so she inclined her head at Sharon and said, “Yeah, I’d love to, thanks.”

  “Fabulous!” Sharon blew them both a kiss and wiggled her fingers before heading back to her own table in the hibachi room.

  “I’m sorry about that,” Dave said, returning to his seat.

  “Don’t be,” Sarah said quickly, waving her hand dismissively. “She seems nice.”

  “Yeah, she is.” Dave took a sip of his drink before continuing. “You know, she’s in real estate, too. Heck, most of my family is, in one way or another.”

  “Yeah? What office?” Sarah inquired politely. Still leaning forward, she rested her chin on the heel of her palm.

  “Sampson Realty, downtown. She’s a stager, too. Does all the staging for her father’s properties when they’re ready for selling.” He grinned and nodded.

  Sarah froze. For a minute, she couldn’t breathe, and the dragon in her belly started doing somersaults, gleefully knotting her stomach. She leaned back, putting distance between them. She tried to swallow but couldn’t, so she reached for her drink, and took a sip, which turned into a gulp. “Scott Sampson works out of that office, too, right?” She thought she almost sounded relaxed. She hoped he wasn’t paying too close attention to her nervous tone if she didn’t. Can it be? Can Scott and Dave be cousins?

  “Yeah,” Dave said beaming while bobbing his head, completely oblivious to her troubles. “He’s her brother. My cousin, obviously. You’ve worked with him?”

  Confirmed. She gulped again, then coughed, bringing up her napkin to cover her mouth. “Yeah,” she responded in a mousy voice, bunching the napkin in an anxious grip. “I saw him Saturday for a showing on Oak Hill.” The words were rushed, she knew that, and tried to relax. “My buyers really loved it.” She blinked repeatedly. “It’s a beautiful property. She did a great job with the staging.” Oh fate, you are a bitch mistress.

  Sarah looked at him again with new eyes, looking for a family resemblance. All she saw were similar blue eyes. Where Scott was tall and lean, Dave was of average height and soft. While Scott was stunning and hot, Dave was sweet and gentle. And while Scott made her pulse race and her insides quiver, Dave was supportive. Scott was also out of reach, and Dave was right here, with her.

  How would she act when she saw Scott again, at his father’s house for a Fourth of July party? It felt like the dragon was on a roller-coaster ride. Would anyone be able to guess that she’d slept with him? What if Dave ever found out? How hurt would he be? What they’d done could never be revealed, not to Dave or their family. Somehow, she’d pretend it never happened. All of it.

  “Oh yeah, they’re definitely good at what they do.” Dave agreed solemnly, still ignorant to her musings.

  Their conversation was interrupted when the waitress brought their food. Sarah’s stomach churned with nerves and she stared at the food, wondering what else fate had in mind for her. What kind of world put two cousins in the path of the same woman? What was she to do? And she had just agreed to meet his family for a Fourth of July party. Oh, my God… Her belly tightened more. The dragon’s wings spread wide, elated as the rollercoaster hit full speed.

  “This one is my favorite,” Dave said, pointing to a plate. “It’s shrimp tempura, so it’s fully cooked. Very light flavor, delicious.”

  This is going to be the longest dinner in history, Sarah thought with dismay.

  CHAPTER FOURTEEN

  Long Term

  “You seem a bit out of sorts,” Dave said with a hint of worry as they were waiting for the check.

  Sarah smiled to put him at ease. She couldn’t tell him the truth about Scott, but she did have a safe story she could share. She leaned forward and, in a conspirator’s whisper, she said, “Dave, I have to be honest with you.”

  He whispered back, “Oh dear, you’re making me nervous. Please tell me the food didn’t make you sick.”

  “Not at all,” Sarah said, shaking her head. “I… ah… well, I was afraid the sushi was going to be horrible, so I filled up on popcorn.” She gave him a shame filled look. “So, having the sushi pushed me over the edge and now, my stomach is punishing me.” She shrugged. “Yup, instant karma.”

  “Oh. I have some antacids in the car. That should help,” he said quickly.

  This man was a saint and she didn’t deserve him. “That would be awesome, thank you.” She placed her fingers over his, and he immediately turned his palm up to hold her hand. “In case you were wondering,” Sarah continued, “the food was really delicious. If it hadn’t been, I wouldn’t have gotten myself into this situation.” She pulled her hand from his, leaned back, and pushed out her tiny belly. Rubbing circles over it with both hands, she said in a gravelly voice, “Food baby.” She grinned and he laughed. Whatever the future might hold, she was right here, right now, with him, and she was going to enjoy his company. Dave deserved that much.

  The waitress came and Dave settled the bill before they left. Once again, she hooked her arm through his as they walked back to his car, the weather just as perfect as it had been earl
ier. Her mind, however, was spinning. Dave walked her around to her door but didn’t open it. Instead, he turned to stroke her cheek with his hand. Stunning her, he touched his lips to hers.

  As was the man himself, his lips were soft and gentle. She squelched the urge to step back. His hand scooped around to her nape and then stroked her shoulder, feeling the exposed skin. He wrapped his other hand around her waist, pulling her close, all the while still kissing her. Sarah was very aware of each touch, each caress. Dave’s kisses were just like Dave, tender, easy, and so very sweet. They were warm and loving. And when he pulled back, all she could do was smile. There was no passion, but at least he didn’t disgust her. Would that be considered a win? Doubtful.

  “I’d like you to come to my place tonight,” Dave said quietly, his blue eyes earnest.

  Sarah blinked at him nervously before she shook her head. “Not tonight, Dave, I’m sorry.” Where was this coming from? They’d never been that close, and they’d never even kissed until tonight. Besides, it was too soon after Scott. Even now, she was thinking of the urgent, passionate, hot kisses that had driven her to be a complete and shameless slut. And they were cousins, goodness!

  “Yes, of course,” Dave said, though his disappointment was evident in his voice. “Your stomach.”

  What could she say? Guilt ate at her, and as he began to walk around to the driver’s side, she followed, tugging at his arm. When he turned around, she said, “Thank you.” And then she kissed his cheek. He nodded before continuing to his side of the car. He may not set her pulse on fire but Dave was a good egg and he deserved to be happy. Sarah was just unsure that happiness could happen with her. She had a lot to think about.

  The drive home was quiet, each of them lost in thought. Dave didn’t try to hold her hand again, and she was thankful for that. Again, she wondered if fate had had a hand to play in this turn of events, because what were the chances? What were the chances that her first and only one-night stand would be her date’s cousin? Um, it was twice. Four times? And during the day. She rolled her eyes at herself. Either way, it didn’t matter. She would focus on Dave, at least while she was with him. She snuck a look at him. He really was a good man, so supportive.