by Tara Randel
He chuckled. “I know you.”
“Then you know that was a silly question.”
A balmy breeze lifted the ends of her hair and he got lost in the depths of her blue eyes. What would she do if he closed the short space between them and brushed his lips over hers?
For a moment, the world around them went blank. He drank in the sight of her, realizing how much he’d missed her. Missed what they’d once had together.
Zoe sensed the shift in the atmosphere around them. Softened. Her eyes became heavy lidded like they did just before a kiss and she swayed in his direction. But then, catching herself as she leaned toward him, dismay colored her face. She cleared her throat and stood.
“So you’ll do it?” she asked, her voice raspy.
He held back a sigh. “Yes. I’ll be there.”
“Great.” She rattled off the time. “I’ll see you there.”
He nodded.
She took a few steps backward, spun and hurried back toward Main Street.
She’d been as affected as he had been by their near kiss; he could read it in her eyes. Yet, she’d still pulled away. As much as he’d hoped for a different outcome, he wasn’t surprised. Zoe wasn’t entirely ready to let go of the past.
And if she had any inkling of the danger Mitch sensed during his recent flashback, she’d never trust him again. Until he had put together more pieces, he’d keep silent. No use making trouble when he couldn’t decipher what the images meant.
He only hoped that once he learned the truth, it wouldn’t destroy the fragile bond he was beginning to experience with his wife.
* * *
SATURDAY NIGHT, PEOPLE filed into the high school gymnasium. Excitement vibrated in the air, voices and laughter rose and carried in the vast space. Tables were set up around the room, filled with program literature, secret auction items or bakery goodies. Near the back of the room, Jenna was busy setting out her delectable hors d’oeuvres. Those who were familiar with her culinary skills were already lining up for a sample or two as soon as the aroma wafted around the room.
“Looking good,” Nealy said as she sidled up beside Zoe.
“The space looks awesome. For a gym.”
“That’s why you hired me. I get results.”
Indeed, she did.
The room was tastefully decorated with floral arrangements, candles and subdued linens covering the tables. Folks could roam around to look at displays the kids had created explaining the food program, or sit at a round table and chat with friends. The two top volunteers for the food bank program stood beside the three-shelf unit Zoe had ordered, which had been stocked with typical donations like canned goods and boxed items. Balloons were tied to the top shelf and hovered cheerily over the unit.
“Your ambassadors are talking up the program.”
“Thanks for that, Nealy. I appreciate you mobilizing the gang.”
Lilli and Max worked one side of the room while Dane and Wyatt, until their significant others were free, worked the other. Her friend Kady, owner of The Lavish Lily floral shop, had delivered beautiful flowers in gorgeous vases that would be auctioned off later. The point of the evening was to not only bring awareness but also solicit donations.
“I gave them a rousing pep talk before we opened the doors.”
“It’s working.”
Zoe blinked back hot moisture. Her friends had always been supportive of her causes. What would she do without them? Or without the wonderful folks of Cypress Pointe?
She wiped a stray tear with the back of a finger, looking around for something to dry her eyes with. Even a napkin would do at this point.
“Here.” Nealy handed her a tissue she’d pulled from the pocket of her stylish dress. “I’m always prepared.”
Zoe took the proffered tissue and dabbed. She didn’t want to ruin the makeup job she’d spent an inordinate amount of time on or leave stains on her new aqua-colored sheath dress. The chunky bracelet at her wrist slid down her arm, the matching necklace swinging as she moved. When she’d looked at herself in the mirror before leaving the house, she’d refused to answer the question of why she’d been so particular about her appearance tonight. This was a fund-raiser, just like the other dozen or more she’d headed up since becoming mayor.
Except tonight, Mitch will be here.
The thought kept rattling around in her brain. This was the first time he’d see her not only in her role as mayor but as a woman. Would he be impressed? Surprised? And, why did it matter?
“Now,” Nealy went on to say. “Pull yourself together. Jamison Prichett, CEO of Prichett International, just entered the room. He’s expressed interest in making a substantial donation to the food bank. You don’t want to be all weepy around him.”
Zoe straightened her shoulders. “Sorry.”
“No problem. Now, go get ’em.”
Smoothing the fitted skirt of her dress, Zoe took a breath and headed in the direction of the Prichett entourage. She’d met Celina Prichett six months ago at a city-planning meeting and the two had become fast friends. Celina had been enthusiastic about the food program and had promised to get her husband on board.
She weaved through the crowd to her destination when Mitch stepped into her path, his camera clicking. “Zoe.”
“Mitch.”
She’d only had a glimpse of him when he’d arrived earlier, setting his bag behind one of the tables and moving around to get shots before the crowd showed up. Then she’d gotten busy and lost track of him. Which was good, because she couldn’t get the scene in the park a few days ago out of her head. She was positive he’d wanted to kiss her and much to her dismay, she’d almost let him. Not a good move when she was still trying to determine what their relationship was going to be.
“Quite a turnout.”
She tried not to beam, then thought, What the heck. This was a good turnout. “I’m pleased. Everyone who agreed to attend is here, plus others who were on the fence.”
“It’s a worthwhile cause.”
“It is.”
She met his intent gaze and chills ran over her bare arms. He’d dressed in a dark button-down shirt and slacks. His hair was combed back and his brown eyes seemed clear of pain. As he stood beside her, the cane rested against his leg, a reminder of what he had suffered and the healing he continued to work toward.
Why, recently, was a brand new attraction overshadowing her confusion about the man?
“Thanks for doing this, Mitch.”
“My pleasure.”
Was it her imagination or had his voice gone rough when he said those words? His intent stare never left her and suddenly she felt more self-conscious than she had in a long time. When she looked closer and saw a flicker of appreciation in his eyes, the goose bumps returned and she felt...beautiful. The past few years had taken their toll and here she stood with a handsome man’s full attention. Okay, it was her estranged husband, but she liked it just the same.
Someone brushed up against her, causing her to bump into Mitch. His tangy cologne enveloped her and stirred her senses. As she caught his arm to steady herself, she couldn’t ignore the lean muscle flexing under her fingers.
Oh, boy. This was not good.
She made space between them. “Well, I need to speak to some of the donors.”
Mitch angled his head toward the crowd. “Go do your thing.”
Before she had a chance to step away, Celina Prichett came into her line of vision.
“Zoe. What a wonderful event,” her friend said, taking one of Zoe’s hands in hers. “When you told me you were holding the fund-raiser at the high school, I never imagined it would be in such a lovely setting.”
Zoe silently thanked Nealy.
“I’m happy you could come,” she told Celina.
Celina dropped her hand and reached over to pull her husband int
o the group. “This is Jamison.”
Zoe held out her hand. “Pleased to meet you. Celina has so many wonderful things to say about you.”
Jamison sent Celina a sidelong glance. “Then you must have caught her on a day when I wasn’t scheduled to hit the golf course.”
Celina tucked her hand into the crook of her husband’s arm. “You know I don’t complain.” She glanced at Zoe. “He works hard. I don’t begrudge him a golf game here and there.”
The couple, so worldly and attractive, couldn’t have been more down to earth. The nerves she’d expected upon meeting the CEO quickly subsided.
“I’m sure Celina has told you all about our program?”
“Yes. And the teens who met us by the door were very knowledgeable. I’m quite impressed.”
Zoe tried to keep from doing the happy dance. Now all she had to do was get Jamison to sign on as a donor.
“So, we have many—”
“Hold on,” Jamison cut in. “Isn’t that Mitch Simmons?”
“I...um...” Zoe lost her train of thought. “Yes, it is.”
“I’d heard he was killed while on assignment.”
“Thankfully, it was a false report.”
“I’m a big fan of his work. How on earth did you get him to cover this event?”
Zoe brushed back her exasperation. “He’s a Cypress Pointe resident.”
“Really?” Jamison glanced at his wife. “I’d love to meet him.”
Pasting on a steady smile, Zoe nodded. “It just so happens I can make that happen.”
Pushing down the rush of emotions—annoyance, jealousy and something old and festering she didn’t dare uncover—Zoe went to fetch Mr. Hotshot Photographer. Tonight was supposed to be about helping families who needed food, not fodder for Mitch’s career.
Zoe walked the few measured steps to Mitch.
“Got a minute?” she asked, proud that her voice came out steady.
“What’s up?”
“I have a CEO who’d like to meet you. He’s a potential sponsor.”
“Sure, I’ll talk to him.”
She led the way, stopping beside the chatting couple. With a flourish, she said, “Mitch Simmons, meet Jamison Prichett.”
Jamison stuck out his hand. “Good to meet you, Mitch. I’m a fan of your work.”
“Really?” Mitch said, sounding surprised. His gaze darted to Zoe and then back again. She hoped her irritation wasn’t visible.
“I have a signed series of prints you did of the anniversary of Cook’s travels to Antarctica a few years ago. The shots were magnificent.”
“Thanks for your interest.”
“More than just interest,” Celina drawled. “He made a trip there to check out the place for himself.”
Mitch looked truly astonished. “That’s terrific. I’m flattered.”
“Tell me, what are you working on now?”
“Actually, the food bank is my newest project.”
Now it was Jamison’s turn to look surprised. “You’re staying here in the States?”
Mitch glanced at Zoe. “That’s the plan.”
As much as she hated the limelight being taken off the food bank, she had to admit Mitch’s uncertainty bothered her. He’d always been proud of his work, but never puffed up and impressed with himself. Somehow he’d found a balance, which even she admired. His work was incredible, no matter her personal opinion of his extensive traveling to get the outstanding photos.
“I’d love to talk to you about your travels,” Jamison went on to say.
“Right now, I promised to give Zoe’s event my undivided attention. This program is important to the community, so I’m here to work. Perhaps another time?”
“You bet.”
Zoe’s heart squeezed at his words. He’d worked the conversation back to the cause at hand.
Mitch started to turn, then stopped. “You know, Mr. Prichett, you just might be getting in on the ground floor of a sweeping movement here. I can envision these types of food banks at schools all around the area. You should talk to Zoe about it in more detail.”
Disbelief flooded her. She’d had that very thought in the back of her mind, but hadn’t fleshed out the logistics of such a project yet. How had Mitch known?
“I believe I will.”
Mitch nodded and moved away as quickly as he could while toting a camera and using the support of a cane.
“Amazing to see him,” Jamison said as Mitch disappeared into the crowd. “I was leaning on supporting the food bank before we got here, but knowing Mitch is involved has sealed the deal. We’ll sit down and go over the numbers next week.”
Zoe’s excitement wilted momentarily, but she kept her smile strong. “That sounds wonderful.”
“Oh, Jamison,” Celina said, tugging her husband’s arm. “There’s an item I want you to bid on. C’mon.”
Celina winked at Zoe and dragged her husband away.
Zoe rubbed a hand over her brow. As upset as she was about Mitch taking the spotlight, he’d managed to steer the conversation back to the reason they were all here to begin with. She would get corporate sponsorship. Should it matter how it had come about?
No. Mitch was helping, just as all her other friends were doing tonight. Instead of letting old wounds keep her from being overjoyed at the outcome, she should applaud Mitch’s effort and count it as a victory.
As soon as she had a minute with him, she’d thank him properly.
She took a few steps and Mitch came into view. He’d been speaking to someone and had started walking in her direction before spotting her. He stopped. Even from a distance, she could see the attraction in his eyes. For her. Just like the first time they’d met, only now they’d had years of memories together. And even though she wanted a divorce... She still wanted the divorce, right? There was no mistaking that Mitch still wanted to be her husband. That near kiss in the park had spoken volumes.
Unsure what to do, she jumped when a voice sounded beside her.
“Hey, Zoe. Sorry I’m late. Just finished my shift.”
She turned to find Tim, the man she’d thought she wanted to date, with a big grin on his boyish face. His eyes lit with expectation and he held a single-stemmed red rose out in her direction.
Oh, boy.
“For me?”
He shrugged. “Just wanted you to know I was thinking about you.”
Her head darted back to look for Mitch, her heart sinking as she watched him turn and hobble in the opposite direction.
Chapter Nine
MITCH WRAPPED UP his assignment before the event started to wind down. While it felt good to be doing something constructive—adjusting the brightness and contrast on his camera, performing light checks and focusing on the subjects—a headache hovered. Add in a new suitor for his wife’s attention and, yeah, he was done for the night.
Folks said hello, but thankfully left him to sit at a corner table, alone. Small talk had become uncomfortable. He could see his friends wanted to ask questions about the accident and why he’d stayed away for so long, but by his terse responses, they usually let it go. There wasn’t much to tell them beyond what everyone already knew. It wasn’t like he’d had any more insight into that day, no matter how often he concentrated on the few new memories he’d gleaned from the latest flashback.
Curious gazes hovered longer than necessary on the cane at his side. His leg injury bothered him less and less, but because his balance was still sketchy, he relied on the cane. If anyone asked, he claimed his leg was weak, hoping to keep conversations about his brain injury to a minimum. Especially with Zoe. He didn’t want her babying him or worrying about the residual results any more than she already did.
Leaning back in the metal chair, breathing deeply to keep the headache at bay, he watched as his friends laughed with ease. M
ax and Lilli exchanged a secret joke. Nealy ordered Dane around while he smiled. Wyatt helped Jenna lay out her culinary creations. How long had it been since he’d chuckled over something? Shared a secret? Touched the woman he loved on the arm just because he could? Long before the accident, for sure, when he and Zoe hadn’t been at odds and constantly fighting. No wonder she was interested in a new man.
The subject of his thoughts hurried by, heart-stoppingly beautiful in a fitted dress that looked like it had been designed specifically for her. She stopped an older man in an expensive suit, chatting him up about making a donation, he assumed. He watched her animated face, not for the first time tonight realizing that his wife had changed as much as she’d stayed the same. Motherhood had given her a different glow and brought out a confidence that hadn’t been there before. Her short hair had won him over. It actually suited her much better than the long locks he’d encouraged her to grow because he’d liked them.
When had she become such a poised, self-assured woman? While he was away, chasing his dreams? And while his interests were different, her passion for a cause remained.
A slight smile curved his lips as he watched her work her fund-raising magic. No wonder more than one guy wanted to carry on a conversation with his wife. She might see it as furthering the cause, but he didn’t miss the interest on more than one man’s face. The most astounding fact was that Zoe was oblivious to her appeal. Which made her more desirable. And Mitch more depressed.
He continued to observe his wife before instinctively lifting his camera. In all the years they’d been married, Zoe had never been a subject of his work. Tonight, she deserved recognition.
He adjusted the shutter speed and looked through the viewfinder. After a half dozen shots, he reviewed them on the digital screen. Nice candids. When he glanced up again, Zoe had moved and it took a few seconds to find her. She stood apart from the crowd, viewing the happenings on the sideline. Mitch lifted the camera. Clicked the moment of vulnerability when all the hard work of the night caught up with her. Her face softened, and she let herself be. The moment was over quickly when she shook herself and went back to work.
