Marquita Valentine - Love So Unexpected The Lawson

Love So Unexpected Copyright © 2016 by Marquita Valentine All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, transmitted downloaded, distributed, stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, without express permission of the author, except by a reviewer who may quote brief passages for review purposes. This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to any person, living or dead, or any events or occurrences, is purely coincidental. The characters and story lines are created from the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Cover Design by Lindee Robison Photography Editing by Madison Seidler Editing www.marquitavalentine.com Facebook Twitter Sign up for Marquita’s newsletter to receive a free book! Contact Marquita at [email protected]

Table of Contents Copyright Page Love So Unexpected (The Lawson Brothers, #6) Prologue | Prologue Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Chapter Twelve Chapter Thirteen Chapter Fourteen Chapter Fifteen Chapter Sixteen Epilogue Love So Hot Chapter Two More Books By Marquita Valentine About the Author

Widower Caleb Lawson has resigned himself to a life of farming and family functions. He never expects to find another love like he had with his wife, much less remarry. But once his mother brings home Sofia Nogales to help her get back on her feet, he starts to reconsider his expectations. Sofia is beautiful, witty, and so full of life that his arms ache to hold her. Determined to make a new life for herself, former head chef Sofia Nogales hopped on the first bus to the east coast and refused to look back. However, she never dreamed a series of bad events would have her end up in Jessamine, North Carolina as the guest of Dinah Lawson. Nor did she ever dream of meeting someone like Dinah’s son Caleb—the sexy farmer, who keeps everything to himself... except the heated look in his eyes. But when the opportunity comes knocking—to the tune of cooking at an established and popular restaurant two states away, will Caleb be able to convince her to stay?

Prologue

Prologue The first time Caleb Lawson laid eyes on Iris McCoy, he fell so hard in love with her that his whole body ached for days. With her quiet beauty and sweet nature, who wouldn’t have? They were perfectly suited for one another. Unlike the majority of the McCoy women in Jessamine, Iris didn’t lead him on a wild chase, enjoyed the simple things in life, loved to talk for hours about nothing at all, and seemed content to be with a man like him—poor farmer and all. Best of all, when she smiled ... it was like the entire planet was smiling with her. Suffice to say, the first time Caleb kissed her, the Earth tilted on its axis. And their wedding night ... the world ceased to exist. It had been the first time for both of them, and he’d been extra careful with her, on account of her fragile state. Iris never knew when a seizure would hit, so he had to be vigilant. Overprotective. Even when it gave him blue balls from hell. “What in the world are you thinking about Caleb?” Iris asked, her voice teasing. She placed a hand on her stomach, and his gaze dropped there. They hadn’t told anyone yet, mostly because she hadn’t yet seen the doctor. Caleb could hardly contain himself, but on the flip side, he was scared out of his mind. What if her seizures got worse with the pregnancy? What if she had to come off her meds entirely? He didn’t know if a baby was worth that kind of sacrifice—not even a baby he wanted more than life itself. He wrapped his arms around her slender back, pulling her closer to him. “Thinking about how pretty you looked this morning.” “Before or after I puked up my breakfast?” He grinned. “You’re always beautiful to me.” She laughed, and the sound warmed his heart. “Such a flatterer.” “Am not.” Her light blue eyes turned thoughtful as she brushed a strand of pale hair out of her face. “No, you’re not, and so I have no choice but to believe you.” “You sure I can’t drive you to the doctor instead of meeting you there?” he asked. “Yes. Jeez, Caleb, will you stop worrying about me so much?” she asked with a small huff. “Pretty sure it’s in my job description as your husband.” She toyed with the hem of his T-shirt, her cool fingers brushing his abs. “There are other things in your job description as well.”

Desire hit him hard. He dipped his head, stopping just short of her tempting mouth. “That so?” “Oh yes.” She lightly kissed him on the lips, then tugged at his arm. “Come to bed with me, Mr. Lawson. I feel neglected.” He laughed. “Can’t have that.” Later that afternoon, he was on his way to meet Iris at the doctor’s when a state trooper flagged down his truck. “Sorry, son, you’re going to have to turn around. Bad wreck up ahead.” The back of Caleb’s neck prickled. “Anything I can to do to help?” “Not unless you know the next of kin.” The trooper flushed. “Between me and you, she’s not going to make it.” Icy cold dread raked its claws down his heart. “What’s her name?” “Iris Lawson.” He was out of his truck before the state trooper could stop him, shouting Iris’s name as he ran flat out toward the wreck. Her sedan had smashed right into a large oak tree. Smoke drifted from it. The driver’s side door was open. A man stood by a woman lying on the ground. As soon as their eyes locked, the man shot to his feet from where Iris lay on the ground, and grabbed Caleb’s arms, holding him back. “Hold on a minute.” Caleb couldn’t stop staring at her—at the way the wind lifted her pale hair. Strangely enough, there was no blood. “That’s my wife.” “She’s not ... you don’t have much time. The ambulance is on its way. I happened to see the wreck while heading in for my shift. Stopped and made the call.” The guy swallowed, and, for the first time, Caleb noticed his EMT uniform. “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to do more.” A lump formed in his throat, along with a chant, Oh please God, let her live, in his head. He knelt down beside her. Her skin was deathly white with only a few mottled bruises on her cheek. “Iris.” Her eyes fluttered open. “Caleb. I knew you would come. I was waiting for you.” Tears clouded his vision, and his chest tightened. He couldn’t breathe, couldn’t do anything but grab her hand and hold on. Maybe if he held on tightly enough, she wouldn’t leave him. She couldn’t leave him. What would he do without her? “I’m here. You stay here, too.” He kissed her hand. Why wasn’t anyone helping her?

The guy who’d held him back got down beside Iris on the opposite side. “Son, we’re going to put her in the ambulance. You can ride along with us.” Caleb nodded, and Iris’s grip loosened. “Don’t stop holding my hand, baby.” Iris frowned, her face crumpling. “Oh, the baby. I’m so sorry, Caleb.” “She’s pregnant?” With a sharp nod, he said, “She was on her way to the doctor.” As if in a dream, Caleb stood as men suddenly appeared to lift his wife from the ground and place her on a gurney. Then they were in the ambulance, speeding toward the hospital. “She’s crashing.” He was pushed out of the way as the paramedics opened her shirt and pressed defibrillators against her chest. “Clear!” She jerked only a little. Once more, they pressed the paddles to her, but nothing happened. Looks were exchanged. He might not be a paramedic or a doctor, but he knew defeat when he saw it. But Iris wasn’t their wife. She was his, and he’d move heaven and earth to save her ... and their baby. “Try it again,” Caleb ordered. No one moved. “Try it again,” he roared. “There’s—” Caleb lunged for the paddles, and all hell broke loose. Two of the guys grabbed him, pinned his arms behind his back while he bucked against them like a bull in the cage. “You’re killing her,” he shouted. “Calm down.” “Fuck that.” He shoved his head back, nailing one of the guys in the face, and got one arm free. He fell to the floor, hitting his head on the side of the gurney. Pain shot through him, but he didn’t give a damn. He grabbed Iris’s hand. It was so cold. So very cold and lifeless. The ambulance turned, sending him tumbling. “Don’t make us restrain you again,” one of the men warned.

Caleb put up his hands, then crawled to his wife. “Please, Iris. Hold on. We’re almost there. The doctors will help you.” Everything came to a stop. The back doors opened, and the two men jumped out, automatically grabbing the gurney as they went. Caleb stayed with them, holding onto Iris, even as more medical staff tried to push him out of the way. “I’m not leaving,” he insisted as they walked inside the emergency room. A nurse smiled sadly at him. “You don’t have to.” One by one, the staff disappeared until all that remained was a single doctor and nurse. “Time of death?” The young doctor looked at the clock on the wall, taking off his latex gloves. “Fifteen hundred.” “No!” Caleb shouted. He shook his head, then his entire body began to tremble. “She’s not dead.” “Your head,” the nurse began. “I don’t give a damn about my head.” He turned his attention to Iris. “Tell them that I have a hard head and will be okay.” Iris didn’t move, didn’t open her eyes. “C’mon, baby. Open those beautiful eyes,” he pleaded with her. “Sir, she’s not—” “If you’re not going to help her, then get me someone who will,” Caleb all but growled. “Fine.” Seconds passed, then minutes. No one was coming back. A fist squeezed at his heart. Iris wasn’t coming back either. Tears dripped from his eyes and onto her face. He brushed them away, wanting an excuse to be of some help. “You always hated getting your face wet,” he said, his voice cracking. “Sorry I sprayed you with the shower head this morning. If I had known...” His jaw worked. “I would have driven you myself.” “Caleb,” a familiar voice called out. Sparing his cousin, Preston, a glance, he said, “If you’re the doctor, I want a second opinion.” Preston held up his hands. “There won’t be another doctor.” “This is all my fault,” he said, staring down at Iris again. Her sweet, pretty face held no life—merely the shell of what her soul had left behind. God, he wished he was with her soul right now.

“Not your fault. She had a heart attack. Most likely brought on by a seizure. Had she been taking her meds?” Preston asked. Caleb shook his head. “Not the entire dose. She ... we, uh ... she was pregnant and didn’t want to hurt the baby.” “I’m sorry.” “Not as much as I am.” He swallowed around the lump in his throat. “She wanted a baby, and I ... I gave into her.” Preston grabbed his shoulder, and he tensed up, ready to fight, but his cousin didn’t try to pull him away. “You’re welcome to stay as long as you need. I’ll do what I can to make sure you can. But when they need this room, she’ll be moved to the morgue. “ He flinched at the word. “I understand.” He lied. He didn’t understand a damn thing. She was barely twenty. He’d just turned twenty-one. They were supposed to grow old together. Hold hands that were peppered with age spots and thin skin on a front porch, surrounded by grandchildren. That was supposed to be his future. Their future. He gently squeezed her hand again, hoping that by some miracle she’d wake up. But her hand remained lifeless, as did the rest of her body. “I love you,” he whispered, kissing her one last time. * One week later, he stood graveside, listening to his brother Adam talk about Iris’s life and her impact on those around her. The cemetery crew showed up after all but Caleb was left. That fist around his heart grew so tight that he dropped to his knees. When the first shovel full of dirt hit Iris’s casket, he bawled like a baby—for the first time since she’d died.

Chapter One Thirteen years later Caleb was tired of being pitied by his family. Sure, no one came out and said as much, but he wasn’t a fool. He could see it in their gazes, in the way they carefully guarded their conversations around him, like he was a ticking time bomb. Not that he could blame them because he didn’t exactly give them any reason to think otherwise. However, a man shouldn’t be punished for being slow to speak his mind. It wasn’t as if he didn’t have opinions. He just wasn’t keen on sharing everything. Never had been. As a kid, he’d been so quiet that a few of his teachers thought something was wrong with him, but his momma had taken care of that. Dinah had always fought for him, had always talked for him, and had made sure that every teacher understood how special he was. In his eyes, that made Dinah special. She wasn’t his mother by blood, but she was the only one he’d ever known, and had never treated him, or his brother, Adam, for that matter, any differently, not even after she started having babies of her own. He never connected with anything like he did farming; his dad said it was in his DNA. There was always a Lawson who farmed, one who passed down land from generation to generation. Usually, it was the oldest son, but Adam had found a different calling. Caleb was thankful for that, because he wasn’t sure where he’d fit in, in his large family. Besides, farming never demanded that he talked, never demanded that he have an opinion on politics or the latest social media fad. All it demanded was his time, water, and sunlight. Most of the time, he had a farmer’s tan and a red neck from working in the sun all day. He had dirt under his nails and scars on his skin. But it was honest work. Hard work. It took time and patience. Two things he had in spades. When Iris had been alive, he’d made sure to take time to be with just her, take her out dancing on a Saturday night because he knew if he wasn’t careful, farming would consume him. Her smile and laughter ... and love had been worth letting things set. Once he’d stopped grieving, he’d thrown himself whole-hog back into farming, back into the very thing that demanded nothing he couldn’t give. However, he was tired of being the one who went with the flow and rarely made waves ... or rarely left the farm for that matter. Most of all, he was tired of being a widower. But there was nothing he could do about that. Well, he could do something about that. However, that would require him to step out of his comfort zone and actually talk to a woman. Ask her out on a date ... maybe even hold her in his arms while they danced. Hold up. You remember how to dance? Yeah. But it’s been a decade since you’ve ... danced. Caleb inwardly sighed. Even his brain didn’t think he was up to it. “...camping this weekend,” Brody said, breaking into his thoughts. “Been looking forward to it for weeks.” “You and Sydney?” Caleb asked, and everyone at the dinner table stopped eating to stare at him. Heat traveled up his neck, but he refused to pull at his collar. Or say anything more. “Actually, it’s just the guys going,” Sydney said, her brow wrinkling. “Y’all have been planning this for a while now. All the brothers go camping while all the wives go relax in a place not infested with

mosquitos or bears.” Just the guys? His gut clenched. “My invitation must have gotten lost.” The silence that greeted him was deafening. “We thought you were helping Mom and Dad with the kids—ouch,” Lucas gave his wife Bailey a look. “What was that for?” “Thinking and confirmation are two different, very important things,” Caleb pointed out. “C’mon Caleb, don’t be that way,” Brody said on a groan. “You never go. Why would this time be any different?” His brother’s response was exactly why he shouldn’t have said a word, why he should have stayed all locked up in his own head. “Thanks for dinner. I have to go check on things in the barn.” He stood and started to gather his things to take to the sink. “Leave it, son. Brody and Lucas are in charge of dishes this evening,” his dad said. Caleb nodded once, grateful for the quick exit provided. “’Night.” He heard chairs scraping back, voices rising, but he kept on a straight path, pushing open the screen door and heading to the barn. “Wait up,” Austin called after him, but he didn’t slow down. If his baby brother wanted to talk, he could do it while they walked. “I do have things I have to take care of, you know. Farm doesn’t run itself.” Austin caught up to him. “I didn’t know you weren’t included.” “Doesn’t matter,” Caleb said, trying in vain to not let his irritation show. None of this was Austin’s fault. “I can’t go anyway, but it would have been nice to get the chance to decide on my own.” His brother groaned. “I knew I should have said something to you, but Brody said that he—” “Took care of everything, right?” Caleb opened the barn door and walked inside. “He always takes care of everything.” “Look, I know I haven’t been around much, but that’s going to change.” “Not really. You got married, and, just like everyone else, you’ll focus on your own life.” Caleb grabbed a pitchfork and marched to the nearest empty stall, intent on cleaning it out—whether fresh hay was needed or not. “Am I supposed to focus on someone else’s?” Caleb shot him a look. “What kind of question is that?” “One that I apparently need to ask you.” Austin leaned against the stall. “What’s holding you back?” “You are in my way.” Caleb made to move past him, but Austin grabbed his shoulder. “Not what I mean, and you know it.” Austin let go of him. “Wasn’t that long ago you were lecturing me about my love life, so I figure it’s my turn to do you a solid.” “I don’t have a love life.” “You don’t have life.” Caleb grunted. His brother was and was not correct. His life centered around the farm and every living creature on it. “See, you can’t even deny it.” “What do you want me to do?” Caleb threw the pitchfork into a stack of hay. “Go into town and screw the first willing woman? Get drunk and raise hell? Go off the deep end and lose my damn mind? Let me tell you something, little brother, I did all that after Iris died. I did all that and more, and I reckon I don’t want to go down that path again.” Austin stared at him in obvious shock. “I’m sorry ... I had no idea.” “Of course you didn’t. You were only eleven or twelve at the time.” Caleb sat down on a bale of hay. “Hell, only Adam and Elijah know.” They’d been the ones to drag him out of places he had no business being, out of bedrooms of women he had no business sleeping with. He’d been so messed up. So angry

and confused. Hurt. A twenty-one-year-old with a chip on his shoulder the size of the Appalachian Mountain Range. “You still miss her?” “Every day, but uh ... it’s duller now. Still visit her grave once a week to bring her flowers. She always liked flowers,” Caleb admitted. “Probably not the healthiest thing to do, but...” He shrugged, unable to explain himself. “Whatever gets you through.” Austin made a face. “That doesn’t involve going down that path again.” “Yeah.” Caleb stared off into the distance, not focusing on anything. “Just wish I could find a new path.” Maybe one that had a woman waiting for him on it. Someone to come home to. Someone he could talk to at night, share his dreams with ... she would do the same with him. “You could always go camping with us,” Austin said. “No thanks. Unlike the rest of y’all, mosquitos and bears besiege me every day. Rather go to the spa with the ladies.” His brother threw his head back and laughed. “They’d probably like it.” “I’d never hear the end of it.” Austin lightly punched him in the shoulder. “Don’t worry, I won’t tell anyone but Harper.” “Good call.” Envy rose inside of him, scraping at his heart with sharp claws. Yeah, a new path would be nice, but that hadn’t happened in over a decade; no use in getting his hopes up now. *** Sofia sat on a painted bench outside the bus terminal. She’d been siting here for hours, and no amount of talking with the mostly nice lady at the ticket counter was going to change her situation. At least she had a good view of the prettiest little harbor she’d ever seen. Unfortunately, taking the time to admire it was last on her list right now. Getting rid of the headache that threatened to split her skull in two pieces was her biggest priority. Oh, and eating ... and finding a place to stay for the night. Except that all of those things required money she didn’t have—thanks to the pendejo two towns back who’d stolen her purse while she’d slept. She had fifty dollars to her name, and only because she had kept tucked inside her bra. Tears threatened to fall, but she refused to give in. She was a Nogales, after all. Her ancestors had crossed oceans to bring Spanish Mustangs to the Americas. But those men and women had plans when they’d sailed to the New World. All she had was luck, and it was malo. So very bad. Rubbing at her temples, she took one deep breath after another. Things could be worse. Yeah, how so? You could still be with your ex-boyfriend. Sofia shook her aching head. No way she was going there. It had been six months since she’d last seen him. “Good riddance,” she muttered. Any man who wanted a woman to financially support him, and his dream to never work again, could take a long walk off a short pier. “There you are,” a perky voice said, and she jerked her gaze up. A woman stood right in front of her. She had a kind smile, vivid blue eyes, and light blond hair. Her skin was mostly smooth, but the lines she did have on her face were Sofia’s favorite kind. This woman laughed. She smiled. She enjoyed life. “I’m so glad you made it safely to Jessamine.” This woman was also out of her mind.

Sofia bit her lip, then said, “Thank you, but you’re—” “Late. Yes, I know. Mix up with the hospitality committee and all.” She waved a hand in the air. “I’m sure you’re used to it. Lord knows your momma was never on time either. The two of us were like peas and carrots. In any case, I’ll get your suitcase, Sofia, and we’ll get on home. Supper’s waiting.” She knew her name? This couldn’t be possible, but her mother—God rest her soul—had always been notoriously late. Not even the priest could make her show up for Saturday night mass on time. Her heart pinched. Twelve years had gone by since her mother passed, but sometimes, like now, it seemed like yesterday. Suddenly, her luggage tag caught her eye. There, her name was plainly written in all caps. “Ma’am, while I—” “Call me Dinah,” she said, taking Sofia’s battered suitcase. It had belonged to her mother and was covered in vintage stickers that had different city names emblazoned on them. “I know you don’t know me at all, but I promise that I did in fact know your mother, Delfina Gonzales. We were roommates at State— all four years. This was her suitcase.” Sofia’s eyes widened, and her heart jumped in her chest. “You do know her.” “Of course I do.” “But she never mentioned you to me.” Dinah smiled sadly. “Sometimes friendships go that way.” “She’s dead,” Sofia blurted. “I know,” she said softly. “I was at the funeral. You look practically the same, although more grown up now ... and more like your mother.” Memories of that day swamped Sofia. She’d been so young, only fifteen. It had poured, and all she could see was black umbrellas and somber faces. She remembered whispered condolences and hugs. The comforting touch of the priest’s hand on her cheek before he left her with her abuela. A woman with pale hair and blue eyes filled with tears. Sofia gasped. “I remember you.” A dimple appeared in Dinah’s cheek. “I wish it was under different circumstances, but here I am. If you’ll give me a minute to thank Sharlene for letting me know you were here, we’ll be off.” Sofia nodded, watching in disbelief as Dinah strolled up to the ticket counter and began to speak with the same woman Sofia had spoken with hours earlier. Just how small was this town? Dinah laughed, then turned back to Sofia. “Ready?” “I think so.” Honestly, could her luck get any worse? “Hope you like pot roast.” “Sounds wonderful.” Unease began to grow, worse than all her aches and pains combined. “But ... I don’t have any place to go after dinner. All the money I’d saved up was stolen. I have no job and... ” She sniffed, then squared her shoulders. “I’ve had nothing but trouble since I left Arizona.” “That’s changing right now.” Dinah placed Sofia’s suitcase inside the trunk. “You’re staying with us, for as long as it takes for you to get back on your feet.” Sofia almost started crying right then and there. “I don’t know what to say.” Fumbling with her shirt and bra, she pulled out the fifty-dollar bill. Yes, it was all that she had, but she didn’t take handouts or advantage of people. “This for your trouble. It’s not much, but it’s all I have left.” Dinah took the money, then tucked it into the front pocket of the shirt Sofia wore. She started to protest, but Dinah cut her off with a stern look. “I can’t take your money, but I can use your help while you stay with us.” No wonder her mother had been friends with this woman. Sofia’s pride was all that she had left, and Dinah refused to take it from her.

With a watery smile, she nodded and said, “Thank you.”

Chapter Two The next morning, Sofia woke with a start. She didn’t recognize the room or the bed at first, but then the smell of bacon invaded her senses, and yesterday’s series of unfortunate events came rushing back. Well, not everything had been unfortunate. She had been rescued and fed by Dinah. Luckily, there had only been the three of them at dinner. Dinah and her husband, David, were gracious hosts and put her right at ease. Only, they refused to let her pay for her dinner by washing dishes. David claimed that it was his night, and Dinah insisted on taking her on a tour of the large farmhouse so she wouldn’t be too disoriented in the morning. Sofia smiled wryly and got out of bed, pulling up the sheets and quilt, before moving to the bathroom. Today would be a different story. Today, she would find ways to pay them back for letting her stay— until she could find a job that could pay rent and allow her to save some money to get to her final destination of Roswell, Georgia. Just outside Atlanta, the town had recently become known for chefdriven restaurants. A former classmate from culinary school had opened a brewery there and had promised Sofia that she would contact her as soon as her venue expanded enough to include a full-service kitchen. However, Sofia wasn’t the type to wait around. So, she’d emailed Iona to let her know that she was moving her way as soon as possible. Only nothing worked out the way she’d planned. But had it ever? * After a quick shower and a fresh change of clothes, Sofia felt more like her old self. She set off for the kitchen, letting her nose lead the way. The smell of bacon and biscuits grew stronger with each step. “Good morning,” she said as she pushed open the swinging door that led to the kitchen. “What can I do to help?” Dinah smiled at her. “You can sit down and eat. Later on, I’ll need your help fixing lunch to carry out to the fields.” “Of course,” she said, sitting at the table. There were four place settings already, three she knew were for her, Dinah, and David, but the other... “Are you expecting company?” “Just my son, Caleb. He should be here any time.” Dinah moved to the window over the sink. “Ah, here he is, and David, too.” Nervous energy flowed through Sofia’s veins. It was bad enough to explain her circumstances to Dinah and David, and now she’d have to endure the inevitable barrage of questions that their son was sure to have. The back door opened. David walked in first, a smile on his weathered face. Like his wife, the lines he wore were from laughter. And just like his wife, Sofia had taken to him immediately. He didn’t have much to say, so when he spoke, it meant something. She admired that about him and admired the way they complemented one another. “Morning, Sofia.” He moved to his wife, placing his hands on her hips and kissing her cheek. “My beautiful bride.” Dinah blushed a little, but it certainly wasn’t from embarrassment. She fairly preened at the compliment. “Wash up and join Sofia at the table before breakfast gets cold. It won’t be fit for the cows to eat.”

“The cows aren’t that picky.” Dinah tilted her head to one side. “I’m that picky.” “Yes, you are, and I’m flattered.” David winked at Sofia, and she smothered a laugh as he playfully scooted Dinah out of his way to get to the sink. The door opened again and she assumed it was Caleb who walked inside, his tall, lean form blocking out the morning sun streaming in. Her skin pricked with awareness before she even got a good look at him. He turned slightly, his eyes meeting hers. With dark hair, tan skin, full lips, and the bluest eyes she’d ever seen, this man was something out of a magazine. Except she was sure a man like Caleb wouldn’t pose for a camera. The few lines around the corners of his eyes weren’t from laughing. No, they were from a sadness so deep it hadn’t left him. “Sofia, this is my son, Caleb. Caleb, this is Sofia Nogales. She’s staying with us until she gets back on her feet.” Dinah placed a large platter of bacon, eggs, and biscuits in the center of the table. “Nice to meet you.” She smiled, mentally bracing for the look of pity and onslaught of questions laced with a bit of accusation. Only, none of that happened. “Nice to meet you, too,” was all he said before he replaced his dad at the sink. She blinked. That was it? If a stranger had shown up at her parents’ house, she wouldn’t be so ... quiet about it. But maybe his first reaction was the calm before the storm. Finally, they all sat down to the table, said the blessing, and began to pass around the plates of food. Surreptitiously, she watched Caleb. He barely said a word to anyone while he ate. A-ha. He’s pissed. “Caleb, your parents tell me that you’re a farmer,” she said, knowing how ridiculous her statement sounded. After all, they were on a farm, and he was most definitely dressed for work in his jeans, faded shirt, and boots. He paused, his brilliant blue eyes fixed on her face. “I am.” “What do you farm?” she asked, determined to draw him out. “Corn, wheat ... soy beans. We have cows, too.” Dinah and David’s gazes bounced from her to Caleb. Sofia felt her face grow warm, but that didn’t stop her from continuing their conversation. She smiled at him. “What’s your favorite crop to grow?” He wiped his mouth with a napkin. “Don’t have a favorite, but I enjoy freezing corn.” “Why is that?” “Because everyone shows up to pitch in and help.” He smiled a little, and her body warmed to it. “Plus, I enjoy eating all day.” “Sounds fun.” She had no idea what he meant by all that. Why would they eat all day while freezing corn? He nodded. “It is. Maybe you can come when we do it next month.” So much for being pissed off. “I’d love to.” Caleb pushed back his chair, and picked up his plate, utensils, and glass. “Thank you for breakfast. I have to go into town to get some seed from Walter. Nice talking with you Sofia.” “You, too, Caleb.” Sofia resumed eating, savoring the homemade biscuits and smoked bacon. Once he left the kitchen, Dinah grabbed her hand. “Do you suppose you could do that again?” “Eat?” she asked, thoroughly confused. “No.” Dinah shook her head. “Get my son to talk.” *

By the time Caleb pulled into the parking lot of Walter’s Feed and Seed, he barely remembered how he got there. He’d driven the entire way, but his body had been on autopilot because his mind had been on the dark-haired beauty sitting at his parents’ kitchen table. Man, she was pretty with her shiny hair and brown eyes. They seemed to laugh while she spoke, but not at him or anyone else. She seemed to be a naturally happy person. Full of life and curiosity ... about him, of all people. He exhaled. Although, she could be polite, merely making small talk at a table that was basically full of strangers. Besides, his answers were lame. Corn freezing. Maybe you should come. Who invited a woman to a family event that was a month away? “Could’ve been worse,” he muttered. He could have driven all the way into town for nothing. Which was exactly what he’d done. There wasn’t anything he needed at Walter’s Feed and Seed. “What could have been worse?” Caleb swung his head toward the window. Preston stood there, a smirk on his face. “Nothing.” Caleb got out of the truck. “What are you doing here?” “Picking up flowers for Mom’s garden.” “Bugs getting bad?” “A little,” Preston replied, falling into step beside him. One of the things he liked about his cousin was that he didn’t press him to talk or answer his questions. “Seriously. What could have been worse?” Okay, so he used to not press him. “Met a woman. Invited her to a Lawson corn freezing.” Preston’s brows shot up his forehead. “Like a date?” “I guess.” “Good for you.” Preston opened the door to Walter’s. “Age before beauty.” Caleb rolled his eyes. “You’re not that much younger than me.” “But I am way prettier.” Preston nodded to the owner. Caleb did the same. “Where did you meet this woman?” “At the kitchen table.” “Dude, you’re not supposed to date family.” Caleb gave him a look. “She’s not related to us.” “And while I’m okay with older women, dating one of your mother’s friends seems ... a bit extreme.” “She’s our age.” “Oh.” Preston leaned against a shelf. “Do I know her?” “No,” Caleb replied tersely. “She’s new in town.” He didn’t know everything about Sofia, just the bare minimum his dad had shared. “Her mom was friends with my mom in college.” Preston clapped him on the shoulder. “I’ll stop giving you a hard time, man.” “Good.” Caleb selected a jar of cotton candy corn and shook it. “Not sure what possessed me to tell you about Sofia in the first place.” “Everyone talks to me, because they trust me.” Caleb glanced at Preston. “Really?” “Yeah. Pretty sure it’s my uniform.” He jerked his thumb at his shirt. “Not just a pretty face.” “That’s the second time you’ve complimented yourself.” “Spent the morning in Apple McCoy’s company,” Preston grumbled. “She had lots of questions about the Hyde incident.”

If anyone could ferret out a story, it was Apple, but Preston hadn’t been working that night. “What of it?” “Family’s suing for malpractice. Don’t blame them, really, but the guy was dead when they arrived on scene.” Preston stood. “All around bad situation, but Apple seems determined to report both sides. She mentioned something about restoring the reputation of good journalism to the Daily.” Although Caleb hadn’t spoken to Apple in years, it still gave him a jolt to hear about her ... or to see her, which is why he studiously avoided any place she frequented. He wasn’t in love with her, never had been, but he harbored major guilt over what had happened with Iris and her. “You and Apple talk a lot?” “Only if I can help it. I figure opportunity doesn’t happen but so often, so why not go for it, you know?” His cousin had a point; only, opportunity wasn’t knocking on his door. No, it sat at your parents’ kitchen table and smiled at you. You mean Sofia? Now you’re catching on. “Are you interested in her?” Caleb asked. Preston’s light blue eyes turned stormy. “Is that a problem?” He shook his head. “Nope.” “Excellent.” Preston grinned. “Good seeing you, cuz. I need to get those flowers now.” Caleb stood there for a beat longer before he placed the jar of corn back on the shelf. Maybe he should be more like Preston and go for it. He’d already cracked open the door by asking Sofia to— Son of a gun. He hadn’t asked her to do anything. He’d said maybe you should go. What kind of pansy ass did that kind of passive talking with a woman? Unfortunately, Caleb knew the answer. He did.

Chapter Three Caleb purposefully avoided the house for the rest of the day. Considering his work kept him busy, and the fact that he didn’t live there, it was easy to do. He shouldered a cow into a stall, then closed the door behind it. “Until you’re done healing, you can’t go play with the rest,” he said. The cow, affectionately called Mule, gave him a look. “Can she understand you?” Sofia asked as she joined him. He glanced at her in shock, then his body began to hum, like it was happy to be in her presence again. Opportunity, he reminded himself. Speak. “Based on that face she made, I’d say yes.” “It’s a good thing I don’t have conversations with my food.” “You’re a vegetarian?” he asked, then remembered she’d eaten bacon at breakfast. “Only when I cook in a vegetarian kitchen.” “You cook?” “Used to.” She nodded at Mule. “Can I pet her?” “Only if you don’t mind playing with your food.” She grinned. “I’ll take my chances.” Holding out her hand, she beckoned the cow to come closer. “You’ll never get her to come to you like that.” “Really? What’s her name?” Sofia asked. “Mule—she’s a bit stubborn. Anyway, you have to sweet talk her. Make her think it’s her idea to come to you.” He had no idea why he was saying this, even if it was the truth. Most women would be bored out of their minds, or think he was out of his. Or at least that was what he assumed. Then again, the last time he was with a woman, she’d only been concerned about what he could do for her in bed. He shoved away the memory. “Mule,” she said on a laugh. “That’s a first. Do you have a cat named Dog?” “Nah. Dog’s name is Dog.” He bit back a smile. “Creative.” She turned to Mule again. “What should I say to her?” “I don’t know. Maybe something like she’s pretty and you need her to come closer to whisper it in her ear?” Sofia gave him a sidelong glance. He blushed as he shrugged. “Can’t help that it’s true.” “Fine.” Tossing her head, she said, “Come here, pretty girl. I have a treat for you.” “Don’t lie to her.” She dug into her pocket and pulled out a carrot stick. “Your mother suggested I take one of these.” “For me or the cow?” “I’m sure Mule will share.” Sofia held out the carrot. “Pretty girl.” Mule made a noise, then shuffled their way, eating the entire thing out of Sofia’s hand. “Maybe I should change her name to Selfish.” Sofia whirled on him, her dark eyes snapping with playful fire. “Don’t you dare.” He leaned one hip against the stall door and crossed his arms over his chest. “Why did you really come out here?” “To talk.” “About what?” He had a sneaking suspicion that his mother was behind Sofia’s visit, on account of that carrot and all. Sofia waved a hand in the air. “Whatever.” All right. He’d bite. “Where are you from?”

“Flagstaff, Arizona.” “Miss it?” “If I did, I wouldn’t have braved a three-day bus ride to the East Coast.” “You planned to move to Jessamine?” “Ah, no.” She turned to face him. “Had a few missteps along the way. Should have been in Atlanta by now. Roswell, actually. Ever heard of the place?” “Nice river rafting down there.” “Great restaurants, too.” “Is that why you were headed there?” She nodded. “That was the plan, but when the unexpected happens in life ... sometimes, you have to change your plans.” “That’s a good outlook to have.” “Happen in farming a lot?” she asked. He considered her question for a moment, wondering if she truly wanted to know or was bored with spending time with his mother. “I depend on the weather every day. You tell me.” “I’m not here to take advantage of your parents,” she said quietly. “As soon as I get back on my feet and have some money saved up, I plan on finishing the last leg of my journey.” His heart beat out a funny rhythm. “Didn’t think you were. My parents aren’t stupid.” “I don’t think they are, but you strike me as a man who loves them and would be concerned.” He cocked his head to one side, studying her. “I already aired my concerns with them.” “And that’s it?” Her voice held a note of disbelief. “That’s it.” “Oh.” She took a step back. “Well, now that we’ve gotten all that out of the way, I’ll—” “Have dinner with me tomorrow night,” he blurted. * Sofia froze in place. “Like a date?” “Sure, like a date,” he answered. “But-but you don’t know me,” she half protested. He smiled, taking her breath away. “Unless things have changed, I’m fairly certain that’s the point of a date.” “They haven’t, but...” She searched her mind, but couldn’t come up with a good reason to say no. In fact, she didn’t want to say no. “You realize that I’m not staying here permanently.” “It’s just a date, not a proposal.” She laughed awkwardly. What was wrong with her? He was just a man—granted, a sexy man with nice, big hands. She’d always had a thing for hands ... and forearms. Caleb had those too. All tan and muscular. “I’ll be ready at six.” He canted his head from side to side. “Won’t be done in time for a shower. How about six-thirty, unless you like the smell of sweaty farmer.” Something took hold of her, bold and like her old self. She could flirt. She loved to flirt. “The smell of sweat from a hard day’s work can be very sexy on a man.” He didn’t say anything to that at first, but then his eyes got all heated. “I’ll remember that.” “But not tomorrow night,” she countered. “No, ma’am,” he said in a thick drawl that made her toes curl.

Giddy, she finally allowed herself to leave the barn and head back to the house. Then stopped short as her foot touched the first step on the porch. What was she thinking? She’d only been here for a day. She wasn’t staying for the long haul and had told Caleb so, point-blank. Nothing could come of a date with him. It’s just a date, not a proposal. Well, he had a point. He knew her plans. So why shouldn’t she have some fun while she was here? But what if Dinah and David didn’t approve? It was one thing to open up their home to a not-socomplete stranger in need. Quite another for that not-so-complete stranger to go out with one of their sons. Carefully making her way up the stairs, she went over what to say to Dinah. No way would she hide it. For one, she was nobody’s dirty little secret, and two, if Dinah didn’t like it, Sofia wanted to know up front. Dinah sat at the kitchen table with a bowl of snap beans in her lap. She snapped each one in half and placed them in a different bowl on the table. Perfect. She could put herself to good use while working up the nerve to talk to Dinah. “Mind if I join you?” Sofia asked as she sat down. “I would love the company.” Dinah set her bowl on the table so that she could easily reach it. They sat in comfortable silence, snapping beans and listening to the quiet background noise from country music station on the radio. “Did you happen to see Caleb?” Dinah asked lightly. Sofia swallowed. “I did. He was busy talking to Mule.” Dinah laughed. “That boy always did have an affinity for God’s creatures. I remember when he was a tiny thing, barely out of diapers, and he sneaked out of the house. Almost went out of my mind looking for him. Finally, I found him in a stall, curled up by a momma cow and her baby. Cutest thing you’d ever seen.” Sofia imagined Caleb as a toddler, with big blue eyes and a mop of brown hair. “I hope you got a picture.” “David did. I refused to leave until all was said and done, and he was back inside. Safe.” Dinah shook her head. “Always an adventure with boys.” And that was her cue. “Speaking of adventures. Caleb asked me to go to dinner with him tomorrow night.” Dinah’s hands froze mid-snap, an indescribable look on her face. “He did?” Stomach twisting into knots, Sofia nodded and continued on, “I said yes.” She refused to ask if that would be okay. Refused to ask if she minded. Either Dinah would accept an innocent date and everything would be okay, or she’d ... well, it wouldn’t be pretty, Sofia guessed. Tears filled the older woman’s eyes, even as she smiled. “You don’t know how happy that makes me.” While Sofia was more than a little relieved that Dinah was happy, she was completely confused by the tears. Who cried over their son going out with a woman, unless it was a momma with grandbabies on the brain? Oh Lord. “It’s nothing really. Just dinner.” “Dinner is a great start.” Dinah sniffed. “Would you look at me? I’m practically watering roses right now.” “If you don’t mind me asking, why are you so happy that Caleb and I are having dinner?” she asked. “You’ll think I’m being one of those mommas if I admit it.” “Actually, I already do think you’re one of those mommas.” Sofia lightly elbowed Dinah in the side, and the older woman grinned.

Tilting her head to one side, she twisted her lips a little. “I suppose I am, but honestly, Caleb’s story isn’t mine to tell. I don’t want to overstep my bounds, but suffice to say, I am truly glad he asked you out.” “Wow. Now you’ve made him all mysterious. He’s practically irresistible to a woman like me.” He really was. She had to know everything about him, from his sad eyes to the reason why his mother burst into tears over him asking her out. For some, that might be a red flag, but to her, it was an invitation to deep conversations. One of the two things she loved most in this life. Second only to cooking meals that led to conversations. “A woman like you is exactly what a man like Caleb needs in his life,” Dinah added. Sofia began snapping beans again. “It’s only dinner.” “That’s what I kept telling myself the first time my husband asked me out.”

Chapter Four The next day, no matter how busy she kept herself, Sofia could not get her mind off Caleb. To be honest, she was dying to know more about the mystery behind him. Had someone broken his heart? Had he broken someone’s heart? Was he still in love with the girl who’d broken his heart? “Too nosy for your own good,” she chided herself. “Sofia, do you mind going into town and making a deposit at the bank?” Dinah asked. “Of course not.” Sofia practically jumped down the last two steps and grabbed the envelope and keys from the woman. “Sorry. I’m a little anxious.” “Which is why I’m sending you into Jessamine to run an errand. If you’d like to check out the job scene, be sure to stop by Yates’ Diner. They have a bulletin board near the entrance. Their desserts are divine, as well, and I’m not just saying that because my daughter-in-law runs the place.” “She’s a cook, too?” “Not exactly. More like the manager, but the two of you probably have a lot in common. Now when you get to the end of the road, take a right, and that will take you straight into town. Park in public parking, then you can take in the sights. I’ll call Bailey to let her know that you’ll be coming by the diner. She doesn’t charge family.” “But I’m not family.” Dinah shrugged. “To me you are. Everyday, you give me a glimpse of my very best friend from college. I missed her so much, Sofia. You don’t know how much it means to me that you’re here.” On impulse, Sofia hugged Dinah. “I’ll be back in time to help you prepare supper.” “You’ve already done enough today, and I won’t have you late for your dinner with Caleb.” Sofia exhaled. “It’s just dinner.” “And the Fourth of July is just any ol’ day.” With a snort, Sofia headed to Dinah’s sedan, and, in no time at all, she found herself in Jessamine proper. Public parking was clearly marked, and there were several places for her to choose from, but she picked the one that was the farthest away from the other cars. The day was perfectly sunny as she walked down Main Street. Suddenly, she realized that she didn’t know the name of the bank, so she pulled out the envelope to check for a deposit slip. “Jessamine Savings and Loan,” she muttered to herself, quickly finding the large building on the corner. “Perfect.” Once she’d taken care of that errand, she checked the time on her phone and sighed. Only five hours until her date with Caleb. Maybe she should head to Yates’ Diner after all so she could eat dessert and meet Dinah’s daughter-in-law. But not to make friends. Oh no, Jessamine was only temporary. Except, she’d have to find the diner first. “Are you lost, sugar?” Sofia glanced up from her phone to find a model standing in front of her. She was tall, made even taller by her high-heeled shoes, with long blonde hair. Her face was absolute perfection ... but her eyes ... those eyes had seen things. “I’m looking for Yates’ Diner,” she said. The woman gave her a sunny smile. “What a coincidence, I am too. I’m Apple McCoy, by the way, and you are?” “Sofia Nogales.” Apple linked her arm through Sofia’s like they were already the best of friends. It was slightly odd, but fitting, given the hospitality she’d already experienced here. Sofia decided to just go with it.

“You’re new in town.” “What gave it away—the lost look or the accent?” she asked with a lopsided grin. Apple glanced at her. “Definitely the lost look. Jessamine isn’t that big.” Sofia laughed. “I think it’s the perfect size—at least what I’ve seen of it.” “Sometimes it can be a bit confining on a body, but one does what one has to in order to persevere,” Apple replied, then muttered, “Why does that man insist on talking to me?” “Ms. McCoy, always a pleasure running into you.” The tall, good-looking man winked at Sofia. “Ms. Nogales. Your reputation already precedes you. I’m Preston Lawson. Welcome to Jessamine.” “How do you know Sofia?” Not bothering to wait for his answer, she turned to Sofia. “Word of warning—stay away from this one. He preens more than a peacock at sunrise.” “I only preen so a beauty like you will pick me out of all the others.” Apple rolled her eyes while Sofia bit back a smile. “Which one of Caleb’s brothers are you?” she asked, and she could have sworn Apple stiffened. “None of them.” “Praise Jesus for that,” Apple said loudly before pasting on the fakest smile Sofia had ever seen. “Bless your heart, of course.” “I’m one of their cousins.” “Will you be at the corn freezing next month?” Preston smiled, giving him a rakish look. She’d bet that every single Lawson had a smile like that, even Caleb. All she had to do was coax it out of him. That is, if she wanted to. You know you want to. I also want to eat chocolate every day, but I don’t. Caleb has way less calories than chocolate. “Already got the weekend off,” Preston replied, pulling her out of her head. Sofia’s eyes widened. “It’s an entire weekend?” “No, but it’s around the same time every July, so I figured I’d give myself a day to recover from all the eating. Hard to rescue people when you’ve put on ten pounds in one day.” Apple tugged on her arm. “This has been perfectly lovely, but I promised to take Sofia to Yates’ Diner.” Preston pretended to touch an invisible hat on his head. “Ma’am.” Then he strode away, whistling. “He’s nice.” “How do you know Caleb?” Apple began to walk, and this time, Sofia almost had to run to keep up with her. “I don’t really,” Sofia admitted. “Then why are you driving his momma’s car?” Apple asked sharply. A little too sharply for Sofia’s liking. What a busybody! “Stole it.” That brought Apple up short. “Are you—” She shook her head, her lips curving into a smile. “I like you Sofia. I truly do, which is why I’m going to help you get settled in Jessamine.” Something about the woman’s offer felt off to Sofia, and since she was the type who always trusted her gut, she decided there was no reason to stop now. “That’s super nice of you, but I don’t plan on staying. I’m only here long enough to get back on my feet before moving on to Roswell.” Apple stared at her, brown eyes narrowing as if she didn’t believe a word Sofia was saying. “It’s near Atlanta.” “Right. Yes. I’ve heard of it.” “Great. So you see, there is no need to help me beyond finding Yates’ Diner.”

“Such a shame. I was so looking forward to getting to know you, Sofia.” Apple stopped suddenly. “Here we are. Just cross the street and you’ll be smack dab in front of the entrance.” “You’re not joining me?” “I’m afraid not.” Apple shook her head, blonde curls bouncing on her shoulders, as she waved a perfectly manicured hand in the air. “Deadlines. I own the paper here in town, and it demands so much of my attention.” Huh, interesting. She kinda expected Apple to be one of those stereotypical Southern belle types who lived off their daddy’s money. “Sounds intense.” “It really is. Bye-bye now.” Sofia watched in stunned silence as the woman sashayed away. “Takes all kinds of kinds to make the world go ‘round,” she said to herself. It was one of her mother’s favorite sayings. * “Son of a gun,” Caleb swore, shaking his hand, like that would stop the pain from cutting it on the barbed wire fence. “Should’ve worn gloves,” Mason said from his spot on the tailgate of Caleb’s truck. “Should’ve told you to go away,” Caleb muttered darkly. “Skylar said I should get out more. So here I am,” his brother replied. “Deal with it.” “She kicked you out, didn’t she?” Caleb marched over to his truck, yanking open the door to get out the first-aid kit. “Only for this afternoon. Said she couldn’t work with me all up in her business.” “If that’s code for she didn’t want sex, I don’t want to hear it,” Caleb snapped. He applied cleaning salve to the wound, then bandaged it up. He was going to look like a certifiable idiot at dinner tonight. Mason blew out a breath. “She also might have said my new addiction to social media was ruining potential relationships with my brothers. Tag. You’re it.” “Lucky me.” “Don’t you forget it either.” “I’m sure you’ll post all about it on Facebook so I can’t.” Mason hopped down, his dark blue gaze intently studying Caleb. “What’s got you so chatty today? I picked the brother who communed with cows for a living so I didn’t have to talk.” “Gee, thanks,” Caleb grumbled. “Who is she?” Mason crossed his arms over his chest, his wedding ring gleaming in the afternoon sun. After a moment’s hesitation, Caleb said, “No one you know.” Unless he’d already met Sofia. Then again, Mason wasn’t about meeting new people. “Is she on Facebook?” “You plan on stalking her?” “Only for informational purposes.” Caleb gave his brother a look, then shook his head. “I don’t have time for this.” “All right. I won’t stalk her,” Mason grumbled, his face contorting in such a way that Caleb almost believed his younger brother was in pain. Mason suffered from PTSD. He was a former SEAL and had been injured so badly he ended up being discharged. What followed were very dark times for his brother —so dark that Caleb didn’t think Mason would ever see the light again. Until Skylar moved next door and changed everything. “Good. Besides, I don’t know if Sofia has Facebook.” Mason smiled at that, the scar on his lip distorting it a little. “I knew it. Skylar told me about the woman staying with Mom and Dad. Never took you for a fast mover.”

“Yeah, haven’t asked a woman out in over a decade, somebody stop me.” Caleb went back to work on the fence. It always needed repairing in this spot. Maybe one day, he’d figure out who or what was doing it. Maybe the wire was too old, too worn out, and should just be replaced. Would that be how Sofia looked at him? He wasn’t quite sure of her age, but at thirty-four, he felt damn near ancient at times, and— “Is that how you plan to impress her?” Mason asked. Caleb squinted against the sun. “I don’t think she’d want to have dinner out here by the cows.” “I meant your epic moments of retreating inside your head. Women don’t like that.” “You’re a great authority, huh?” Caleb countered. “Most women don’t like that. Maybe you lucked out and got the one who won’t mind, but my point is that you can’t go inside your head, Caleb. Be present for your date by doing more than just showing up. Hell, pretend she’s one of the damn cows if you have to.” There were times that Caleb wanted to punch his brothers, especially Mason with his sarcastic mouth, but right now... “Thanks for the advice. It’s not easy for me, but I want to ... try.” “That’s all we can do, brother.”

Chapter Five Caleb’s first glimpse of Sofia in her red dress almost knocked him on his tail. “Wow. You look beautiful,” he couldn’t help but say as she walked down the steps to him. Her skin glowed, and he was tempted to run his fingers through her silky dark hair. He wouldn’t though. For one, women didn’t appreciate a man mussing up their hair. And two, he didn’t have the right to touch her. Yet. “You look very nice yourself,” she said, running an appreciative gaze over him. Wearing his best button-down shirt and a dark pair of jeans, he hoped that she’d find him attractive. Maybe more than attractive. Just a date. Just a date. Just. A. Date. He chanted the words in his head so the rest of him would be in agreement. Wasn’t easy, though, because his body had other ideas, and it was signaling his brain all sorts of thoughts that involved kissing Sofia’s neck and full lips. “If you’ll allow me,” he said, opening the passenger side door. “A girl could get used to these Southern manners,” she said as he held out his hand. Taking it, he helped her inside while ignoring how good it felt to touch her. Reluctantly letting go of her, he said, “You’ll have to sit in the middle. The seatbelt isn’t working right on this side. Been meaning to get that fixed.” He could have taken one of parents’ vehicles instead, but he wasn’t a teenager anymore. Hopefully, Sofia wouldn’t think poorly of him. “Promise you’ll be safe.” She scooted over in the seat, adjusting the little red number she was wearing as she went. “Is this good?” He nodded. “Seatbelt’s beside you.” Closing the passenger side door, he jogged to the other side. His sweaty palm slipped off the door handle the first time. Great. Wiping his hands on his jeans, he hoped she wouldn’t notice. “You said dinner, so I took a chance on wearing a dress,” she said with a little smile as he climbed inside the truck. He didn’t say anything to that, mostly because he couldn’t think of something to say that wouldn’t make him sound like a dumbass. So he started up the engine and put the gear into drive. Man, dating is hard. So is life. Say something. “Hope you don’t mind if we go to the beach instead of Jessamine. There’s a restaurant called Bluebelle where a lot of people go when ... they like it.” Could he sound more like an idiot? “You like seafood? Not allergic or anything? I didn’t think to ask first. We could go to the Shake Shack instead.” He swallowed. Apparently, he could sound more like an idiot. “I love seafood. Actually, I love food,” she replied. “It’s right on the ocean. View’s pretty.” Just like you, he wanted to add. “Really? I’ve never seen the Atlantic.” “You haven’t?” he asked in astonishment. She shook her head. “Only in pictures.” His truck hit a deep rut in the road, and Sofia fell forward. Automatically, his arm shot out to protect her and ended up hitting her in the stomach. She coughed, her hand covering his arm, as she sat up again. “Oww.” “Shit!” He winced, coming to a full stop before turning to her. “I mean, shoot. I’m sorry. Habit. Are you okay?”

Wide brown eyes regarded him. In their depths he found amusement ... and—please don’t pity, me— kindness. “I’m fine.” “You sure?” She nodded. “You were only trying to protect me.” Tugging at the collar of his shirt, he began to ease the truck down the long drive again. “Won’t take long to get there. Thirty minutes at the most.” “That close?” “Yeah.” He got quiet again, and the temptation to get lost in his own thoughts beckoned. At least there he wouldn’t say something stupid, but there, he couldn’t get to know Sofia either. How in the hell had Iris ever gotten more than two words out of him while they dated? “I helped your mother in the garden today. It’s beautiful, Caleb,” Sofia said, mercifully breaking into his internal musings. “You like that sort of thing?” he asked. “Put it this way—when I was the head chef at Las Rosas, I would have killed to have access.” “I’ve had some offers, but our farm doesn’t produce enough to supply to multiple vendors.” “That’s a shame because your vegetables are perfecto.” He blushed a little at the compliment. “Doesn’t take much to grow ‘em. A little sunlight, water, and ... encouragement.” “You talk to the plants, too?” “They’re less moody than the cows.” He glanced up into the rearview mirror to judge her reaction. A breathtaking smile curved her lips at the corners, and his stomach dropped. “Did you always want to be a chef?” “Yes. Ever since I was little, I wanted to be in the kitchen. There’s something very satisfying about preparing food for people you care about, or maybe it’s the conversations that always happen.” She grew more animated as she began to talk, her hands gesturing in a controlled wildness that appealed to him. And sweet Lord, her face ... it was so alive. He cut his eyes back to the road, narrowly avoiding Walter Matthews’s mailbox. “My family loves to eat and talk.” “But not you?” “I prefer listening,” he said. “And eating. I love eating. Who doesn’t love eating?” he added, then clamped his mouth shut. “Smart. You definitely find out more that way.” There was no way she could be this perfect. Okay, so maybe not perfect, but she sure was overlooking a lot. Maybe he should just come clean to her. Well, as clean as he could. No way would he tell her about his wife just yet. He didn’t want the inevitable pity that would lace her words and every look she’d give him. He cleared his throat, keeping his eyes fixed on the road. “I’m sure you’ve noticed how bad I am at this, but in case you haven’t, I haven’t been on a date in a long time, so uh, if I start heading off in the wrong direction, let me know.” She lightly touched his knee, and damn if he didn’t feel it everywhere. “You’re doing fine. Besides, like you said, it’s just a date, not a proposal.” “When you put it that way...” he muttered. “How about you find something on the radio?” “If that would put you more at ease.” She leaned forward and began searching through the stations. “You’re not bothering me, Caleb. I think you’re charming.” He almost ran off the road. “Ah ... thank you.” Was ‘charming’ code for you’re a nice guy, but I prefer bad boys who go after what they want? He couldn’t be a bad boy, had never been one, not even when

he’d been acting the fool after Iris died. It just wasn’t in him. “That was a compliment. I’m not into drama or playing mind games,” she said, as if reading his mind. Warmth flowed over him. “Here’s to a great dinner.” “I know it will be,” she assured him. * Sofia had meant what she said on the ride over. Caleb charmed her. There was something about him that made her want to cradle him to her chest and stroke his hair while he put those big, capable hands on her at the same time. Stop lusting over the man. You stop lusting. I’m admiring his hands. Tomato. Tom-ahto. “Dinner was wonderful,” she said. “I can’t wait to pick out a dessert. Want to share?” Caleb’s eyes crinkled at the corners. “Maybe we can get two to share.” “You so know the way to this woman’s heart.” She laughed, then sobered. That was taking things a little too far. Besides this date being only dinner, she eventually planned on leaving. He leaned in. “We must share the same one.” Oh my. For such a quiet man, he had such a way with words. “Next time, I’ll cook for you, and we’ll see if your heart can handle it.” Stop it. Stop flirting with him right this instant. She didn’t want to stop, and, for whatever reason, she couldn’t help herself. “I’ll take you up on that.” Holding out the menu, he said, “The lady gets first pick.” Taking it, she quickly scanned the page. “I’ll try the banana pudding.” “One of my favorites. I’ll go with Death by Chocolate Decadence.” He grinned at her, and she ignored the fluttering in her heart. “Afterwards, I thought we could take a stroll on the beach so you can get a proper introduction.” She shifted her gaze to the window to watch the waves roll in. They crashed against the shore as small birds darted to and fro, never quite letting the water touch them. “Is it cold or warm?” “A little chilly, but since we’re not swimming today, your feet should be fine.” Tearing her gaze from the water, she focused on the man sitting across from her. “Do you think it’s strange that I ended up in Jessamine, of all places, and that your mom, of all people, was the one to come save me from the bus station?” “She is on the hospitality committee,” he pointed out. “Normally, the committee puts people up in the Jessamine Inn for the night, but you were the exception.” “Because your mother was friends with mine.” She shook her head in amazement. “After all the bad things that happened along the way, it seems too good to be true.” Caleb leaned back in his chair. “Bad things?” “My tickets had the wrong destinations. I foolishly withdrew all the money I had in savings and had it stolen while I slept.” She sighed thickly. “I wasn’t even supposed to go through North Carolina, much less end up on the coast. By now, I should be in Roswell, staying with my friend, Ione. But she’s not answering her phone or my texts.” “That doesn’t sound like a very good friend.” “She’s more like a culinary school colleague I’ve kept in touch with. Don’t you have friends like that?” she asked. “My friends are my brothers,” he said evenly, his gaze steady. “I don’t get away from the farm much.”

“Cooking in a professional kitchen is similar. My friends were the ones I worked with, and I didn’t have time for anyone outside of that.” She made a little face. “Unfortunately, the one time I did, he ended up being a real loser. Bragged about how long he could stay on unemployment and took cash-only jobs.” “That’s a ... shame,” Caleb said, his nose wrinkling a little. “Unfortunately, love made me stupid. I’m able to forgive and gloss over so many things because of love.” A flaw to be sure, but it was in her DNA. Hadn’t her mother fallen for a man who had no desire to stick around to help raise his child ... unless he needed a place to crash, or some money? “How long ago was that?” “About two years. Haven’t had time for anything since then.” She canted her head side to side. “Mostly because I haven’t made time for anyone else, but all that’s changed. I left Flagstaff to start over.” “It took you two years to decide that?” His question wasn’t accusing. She grinned sheepishly. “It took me that long to convince my abuela to let me go with her blessing. Family is one of my weak spots, and I left a ton of primos—cousins—as well as aunts and uncles behind.” His eyes widened. “That’s pretty gutsy. I can’t imagine ever leaving Jessamine to live in another place.” “Your roots are too deep,” she said softly. “That’s how it should be.” “What about your roots?” She paused as the server came by to get their dessert orders. When he left, she continued, “My roots are looking for a new place to grow.” Caleb smiled at her admission, but he didn’t comment. However, she knew he was thinking about what she said. She’d give almost anything to know his thoughts. Almost. * The moon had risen by the time they’d finished dessert, but honestly, Sofia didn’t care that it would make the ocean harder to see because her entire dinner with Caleb had been something out of a movie. He was funny and kind. He truly listened and didn’t seem to judge her. It was freeing. It was also terrifying. She had no plans for Jessamine. Her plans were Roswell. Unfortunately, there wasn’t a lot she could do to help Dinah. The woman had the cleanest house in America. David took care of the outside chores, and she’d struck up a conversation with Caleb— originally, because it meant so much to Dinah— that had led to tonight’s date. She didn’t regret that one bit, or her original motive behind it. Although, if she were honest, she hadn’t needed a push from Dinah to go in search of Caleb. He’d interested her all on his own. In any case, lunchtime seemed to be where Sofia helped her the most because Dinah said it was the fastest she’d ever made and delivered food out to the fields where a crew of five men worked. “How often does your mother make lunch for everyone?” she asked while they walked barefoot on the sand. Waves lapped at the shore with a dull roar. Every so often the water would come up high enough to tickle her toes, and she would sink a little into the wet sand. “Every day we work. Unless there’s something pressing, I don’t have the guys work on weekends.” “Is that pretty standard, for the household to bring lunch?” “Yeah. Some farms send out for lunch and dock their employees’ paychecks for it.” “But not y’all.”

“No. Dad always said that lunch is part of our benefits package, and there are always those who take advantage of the men working for them. Most of them are first or second generation American. English isn’t their first language. A good employer looks out for his employees.” She stumbled a little, and Caleb caught her, his hands on her bare arms. Her breath stuttered a little while her heart began to beat faster. His head dipped, their bodies closer. Just as she thought he would kiss her, he stepped back. “You okay?” No. “Yes. Thanks for not letting me fall.” “Wouldn’t want you to ruin your pretty dress.” She laughed. “This old thing?” “Now you’re sounding like a true Southern belle.” He let go of her, then began to walk again. “Ready to go home?” She didn’t have a home in Jessamine, but she didn’t bother to correct him. “Yes.” As they got drew closer to the parking lot, Sofia stopped and grabbed Caleb’s hand. “Thank you for a wonderful time.” Leaning up, she kissed him on the cheek—lingering far longer than she should have, but he smelled incredible. “It was my pleasure.”

Chapter Six Sofia paced the kitchen, waiting for the oven to heat up, so she could bake a batch of homemade cinnamon muffins for Sunday’s breakfast, her temper growing hotter with each passing second. If it had been such a pleasure to take her out, why had Caleb avoided her for almost a week? It wasn’t as if he didn’t know where she was, and it wasn’t like they didn’t see each other every day when she brought lunch to the fields with his mother. She sighed. To be fair, he hadn’t completely ignored her. He’d smiled her way and made sure to let her know how good the meal was. Her temper started cooling down. What was she expecting from him? From herself? Maybe she was bored. Maybe she was tired of doing the same thing day in and day out without really contributing, even if Dinah and David insisted on her getting her bearings before going job searching. She seized on that. “I need a job.” If she had a job that regularly took her away from the farm, then she wouldn’t have time to think about Caleb or his reasons for not asking her out again. “The muffins can wait.” She turned off the oven and placed the bowl of dough in the fridge, then went in search of Dinah. She found her on the back porch, holding David’s hand as they rocked side by side and talked in quiet voices. Her heart pinched at the picture they made. So comfortable with one another, and so completely in love. She wanted a love like that. A love that stayed the same no matter how many years had passed. “Do you guys mind if I borrow the car to go into town?” she asked. David stopped rocking. “Actually, Dinah and I have a surprise for you.” Confused, she glanced between them. “You do?” With a smile, Dinah rose from her seat and held out a set of keys. “This is for you.” “I don’t understand.” David joined them, pointing across the way. “See that truck?” Sofia turned slightly, finding a light blue truck with flared sides. “Yes.” “It’s for you to use. Come and go as you please. We don’t want you to feel like you have to ask for permission. Already filled it up with gas, too.” Gratitude nearly overwhelmed her. “I can’t possibly take this.” Heavy footsteps sounded behind her. “It’s just a loaner.” Caleb! Her heart thumped hard against her chest. She whirled around. He had a smudge of dirt on his cheek, and small cuts adorned his knuckles. “Did you have something to do with this?” “It was his idea,” Dinah pointed out. Caleb smiled a little, his cheeks flushing. “It was a group effort.” “A group effort didn’t get Old Blue running again. That was all you, son,” his father pointed out with a fair amount of pride in his voice. Sofia’s mouth fell open. “You did this all by yourself?” Caleb ducked his head, his smile turning bashful. “Had a little help from my brother, Lucas.” Any other man would have taken credit, but not this one. Not even when his parents were quick to point out the work he’d done. She wasn’t sure what to make of Caleb Lawson. Was he real? He had to be flawed somehow. She let her gaze travel up and down his sexy body. Yeah. Nope.

“Want to take it for a test drive?” Caleb asked. He rubbed the back of his neck, peering at her from beneath his lashes. “I need to make sure you’re all right with a manual transmission.” She was perfectly all right with stick shift, but the allure of alone time with him was too much of a temptation for her to admit it. “I’ll grab my purse and meet you there.” Dashing inside, she grabbed her phone and purse, then headed to the truck. Caleb stood beside it, looking like something out of a country music video with his faded jeans, fitted T-shirt, and baseball cap. Except he didn’t have that smug, get-on-up-in-my-truck-little-darlin’ look on his face. “You want me to drive first?” he asked. She shook her head. “I want to try.”` “Atta girl.” For no reason at all, his compliment made her want to sashay to the driver’s side. “Better hold on to your hat, country boy,” she said, getting inside. He joined her on the passenger side. “Yes ma’am.” With a playful roll of her eyes, she started up the engine and put the truck in first gear. After a few jerky shift changes, she got the hang of it and was soon cruising down the back path that led to the bigger fields behind the house. Wind blew through her hair, whipping it around. “Should’ve brought a hair tie with me.” “Maybe this will help.” He took off his cap and set it on her head. “Looks way better on you than me.” She grinned, then turned her attention to the road. “Any place special I should take you?” “Down by the pond is good.” He pointed to his left. “Take that path.” Following his instructions, she arrived in less than a minute and parked behind a fallen log. “Favorite spot to take the cows?” “Favorite spot to go skinny dipping.” Arching a brow, she asked, “You go skinny dipping?” His blue eyes turned dark. “Sometimes a body gets too hot and dusty not to.” That was so not what she needed to hear, because all she could imagine now was his bare body in the sun, the water rolling off him as he marched out of the pond and came to her. Instead of replying, she got out of the truck and walked around. Caleb joined her, yet still kept his distance. She didn’t like that at all. A piece of fruit had never been as forbidden to a woman as Caleb Lawson. Unable to take it any longer, she blurted, “Is there a reason you haven’t asked me to dinner again?” His brows drew together. “You asked me out, remember? I was waiting on the day and time.” “I what? Oh ... make you dinner.” Wincing, she rubbed her forehead. “I didn’t think of that. Honestly, I’m not sure how I’d go about it. I can’t entertain you in your parents’ home.” He rubbed a thumb across his bottom lip. “What about my home?” “You have a home?” “I don’t live with the cows, honey.” Why did he make the endearment sound so good while making her sound so silly? Normally, she’d tell a man off for calling her that. “Didn’t think you did.” She hadn’t thought of where he lived at all. Mostly, she assumed he lived in the apartment on the second floor of the barn. Dinah had mentioned it in passing while they were searching for an extra water hose. “You did.” “Maybe I thought you lived in the barn,” she admitted, sitting down on the fallen log. After a beat or two, he came to stand beside her. “Mind if I join you?” “You don’t have to ask,” she replied, but she patted the space beside her anyway.

He sat, the nearness of him pure pleasure to her senses. “I know.” “But you did anyway.” “A gentleman is always considerate of others.” He leaned over a little and picked up a few rocks, then sent them skipping one by one across the surface of the pond. “Any luck with the job search?” “No, but that’s totally due to a lack of trying.” She picked up her own rock and chucked it at the water. “It’s hard to balance paying back your parents and finding time to go in search of one. The truck helps.” He handed her a pebble. “Try this one. Light and smoother. Flick it with your wrist at an angle.” She turned the small rock over and over in her hand. “Are you trying to distract me.” “And if I were?” He turned to her, his mouth so close she could kiss him, if she wanted. Oh good Lord, she wanted to, so badly. You can’t. Why not? His mouth is entirely kissable. Because Caleb is never leaving this farm, and you have other plans. At the last minute, she drew back. A glimmer of disappointment flashed in his eyes. “Then I’d say you’re doing a good job of it, but I really have to find a job, Caleb. I need to start saving again so I can pay your parents back and get down to Roswell,” she reminded them both. She needed the constant reminder. Jessamine was already becoming too much like home to her. He stretched out his legs in front of them. “Why are you in such a hurry? If my parents couldn’t afford to have you stay with them, then my mother wouldn’t have brought you home.” She gave him a skeptical look. “Yes, they would have, and you know it.” Holding up his hands in surrender, he smiled. “You got me there, but the thing is, they can afford it. Take your time, Sofia. Enjoy life while you’re here.” “You’re saying that because you want me to cook dinner for you.” She elbowed him lightly in the side. “I am a transparent man.” He bit the side of his lip, then tilted his head. “I’m glad you’re here, even if it’s just a temporary thing.” “You say temporary like it’s a bad word or something,” she said and laughed. His hot gaze ran over her. “In this case it is.” Caleb inwardly punched himself. Judging by the look on Sofia’s face, he shouldn’t have admitted how much he wanted her to stay. Okay, so he’d admitted it in a backward kind of way, but she looked ready to bolt. He wasn’t sure why really, since she’d been the one to bring up his lack of attention to her. Honestly, he had been waiting on her to make the next move and invite him to do something. But now that he knew better ... the ball was in his court. If he wanted to spend time with her while she merely bided hers, then he’d have to be the one doing the pursuing. Fine with him. Only, he wasn’t sure if he could do it properly. Hell, he hadn’t done it when he’d met Iris. They clicked immediately and always seemed to find a way to be around one another. Then again, Iris had been as crazy about him as he was about her. “I think I need to go.” He wasn’t going to force her to stay. Maybe she wasn’t into him. Maybe the reason she’d gone out with him was because she was bored. Maybe— “But I want to make plans with you before I go into town.” He blinked at her. “Excuse me?” “Dinner plans. You said I could cook for you at your house,” she clarified, her smile turning only a little shy. Sofia wasn’t the shy type, and he liked that about her. “Yeah, I did.” His voice came out far gruffer than he intended. He cleared his throat. “How about tomorrow evening? Momma usually cooks after church, but I’ll tell her that—”

“Don’t you dare tell that woman she can’t cook for her family,” Sofia all but shouted at him. “That’s how she shows her love.” Her fierce loyalty to his mother made his heart beat faster. “I know that, and I wasn’t going to tell her not to cook. Only to scale back a little. Sometimes she cooks for ten.” “Oh. Well, that’s okay.” She stood, wiping off her cute ass with the palms of her hands. “Where is your house?” “Up the road a ways.” For a second he panicked at the thought of having her all to himself. You want her all to yourself, remember? “What time should I pick you up?” “Depends on what time you want to eat,” she said with a saucy grin. “Six-thirty is good.” “Are you that habitual?” He shrugged a little. “I get in late and up early. Seems like a good time.” “Pick me up at three.” She walked away, still wearing his baseball cap. He liked how it looked on her, liked how her dark hair flowed out from under it. But what he liked most? The fact that he’d been the one to fix a problem for her, and not just her pretty hair getting in her face. It had given him pure pleasure to work on Old Blue for her. When he’d approached his dad about providing transportation for Sofia, David hadn’t batted an eye at his request. Just told him to make sure he filled up the tank when he was done. Of course, his mom had read more into it than she should have. He was merely doing something nice for a woman who was down on her luck. Nothing more than that. Or so he told himself. “Are you coming?” she asked, looking over her shoulder at him. Beneath the afternoon sun, she looked like an angel. And angel with a killer body, but an angel nonetheless. His heart thumped against his chest. “Yup.” * Later that day, Caleb decided to take Preston up on his standing offer of beer and darts at Whiskey Hollow The bar was a local watering hole, but in the past year, Preston swore things had gone more upscale with the new owners. In any case, Caleb hadn’t darkened the door of Whiskey Hollow in years, when his brothers had to literally drag his drunk tail out of there. So, it was only slightly embarrassing to walk inside, but it’d been over a decade since that night, and the place did look different. He looked around the bar, finding Preston near the back, playing darts by himself. For a guy with a supposed horn-dog reputation, his cousin was rarely in the company of women. He didn’t show up with them to family events, and they didn’t surround him tonight. The only reason, he supposed, that Preston could still have that moniker was because reputations stuck to a man, no matter how long it had been since he’d acted in such a way. “As I live and breathe, Caleb Lawson has finally decided to grace us with his presence,” Preston said, but since he didn’t shout it to the world, Caleb decided not to throat punch him. Besides, he knew he was only giving him shit. “Don’t get too excited. I just came here to beat your ass in darts.” Preston grabbed his hand and did the half-hug thing that men did when they were happy to see one another. “Doesn’t matter. I’m happy to have some company.” Caleb looked around the bar. It was already half-full at only seven in the evening. Most people didn’t bother to show up until after ten. “No date tonight?” he asked.

“Too busy.” Preston handed Caleb some darts, then erased the scores on the chalk board. “You’re up first.” They played a few games without talking much; just the way Caleb liked it. All right, so he didn’t talk much, but his cousin did, and that suited him just fine. Mostly because it gave him time to think about Sofia. Her pretty smile. The way she looked in a pair of shorts. Man, she had some legs—all golden brown and long. She filled out a shirt nicely too. Hell, she looked good in everything she wore. But even more than that, she seemed to genuinely care about his parents, especially his mother. That was something unexpected. Then again, everything about Sofia was unexpected. “I’m thinking of giving up the medical field for good.” That announcement drew Caleb up short. Instead of throwing the last dart, he said, “To do what?” Preston grinned. “Isn’t it obvious I’m one of the owners of Whiskey Hollow?” “Not really,” Caleb replied, then took aim. He hit the board dead center, but refrained from celebrating. “I’ve been singing its praises for the past thirty minutes. Haven’t you heard anything I said?” “Um ... sorry,” he muttered. Preston rolled his eyes. “Never mind. I’m not offended. You and that head of yours.” “I was busy thinking about my uh, date from last Saturday evening.” His cousin seemed to perk up at that. “With the mysterious Sofia?” “Yeah. Surprised you haven’t met her.” “Been too busy.” “Too busy doing what?” Both men turned to find Apple McCoy standing there. The cool blonde wore a dress more suited for a picnic than a sports bar. “Dreaming about you,” Preston said. Her lips flattened. She fixed her gaze on Caleb. “How have you been?” “Fine.” His pulse sped up a little and not in a good way. The last time Apple had spoken to him, it hadn’t been the most comfortable situation. “And you?” “The same.” She tossed her hair over her shoulder. “Did your mother get her car back? Color him confused. “Back from what?” Her gaze narrowed. “From Sofia.” “You met her?” “I know everyone.” Yeah, he should have left as soon as she’d asked him how he was doing, but he wasn’t an asshole, and he wouldn’t treat her like she wasn’t actually there. “I’m going get a drink from the bar. Anybody want anything?” Apple crossed her arms over her chest. “Answers.” “I don’t owe you answers about Sofia.” Her mouth opened and closed like a fish caught on a hook, except he felt more like the worm. “You owe me—” Preston stepped between them, grabbing Apple’s arm. “A dance. Let’s go.” Stunned, Caleb watched as his cousin led Apple to the small dance floor in the corner. Even more shocking was the fact that she allowed him to do so. No one directed any McCoy woman without her permission. Preston motioned to the DJ, and a slow song came over the speakers. Apple glared up at him before she slowly put her arms around his neck. Grateful for the intervention, he made his way outside. One day he would have to sit Apple down and clear the air between them. While he knew he hadn’t done her wrong, it was obvious she didn’t feel the same way. Then again, there had never been any lost

love between the Lawsons and McCoys. Well, not until his brother married Apple’s sister. And he supposed he could say that he and Apple had been a couple once. Barely. He’d taken her to prom and out on a proper date once, but that was at Iris’s insistence, saying that her cousin was too shy and too beautiful to get a date on her own. It had sounded far-fetched to him. A man in love, however, will do foolish things to please his woman.

Chapter Seven The search for a job in Jessamine had been a bust. No one was hiring head chefs, or any chefs at all. All the restaurants in the area had the staff they needed, even down to servers, food runners, and hostesses. While Jessamine was a larger sort of small town, it simply did not have the population to support a multitude of eateries. “Try this one, dear,” Dinah said, handing over the WANT ads. “Holland Springs is bigger than our little town, but it’s almost an hour commute each way.” Sofia shook the section of paper open, then settled back into the swing beside the older woman. “The cost of gas alone would put a big dent in take-home pay each week,” she grumbled. Dinah patted Sofia’s knee. “The right job will come along. I know you’re trying to get to Roswell like you’d planned all along, but I want you to know that you have a home with us for as long as you like.” Her chest grew tight, and tears clogged her throat. “I don’t know how I’ll ever be able to repay you.” “That’s the thing with family. There’s nothing to repay.” Dinah smiled. “Although I do have to admit I enjoy your help with meal times and around the house. It’s nice to have a young person home again.” “I’m not that young.” “Twenty-seven is a baby to me.” Sofia gazed out at the back pasture, watching cows graze and a donkey rub its head against a large tree. A couple of dogs raced each other down a dirt path. Tassels had sprung from the tops of corn that went for row upon row. Dinah’s garden was fully functional, with bell peppers, squash, and a plethora of veggies that Sofia loved to cook. While it was warm outside, the ceiling fan kept them cool, and the sweet iced tea in their glasses was perfection. She knew a place like this was bound to have flaws—everywhere did—but in her eyes, the Lawson farm was heaven. Too bad her plans didn’t include staying here, but even if they did, where would she find work? She wasn’t above taking a job outside her field of expertise, but without experience and a constant kitchen to keep her on her toes, she was afraid she’d forget what she’d learned in school and had put into practice in the subsequent years. Her phone buzzed, and her heart got all happy at the sight of Caleb’s name. Grabbing her phone with one hand, she put the newspaper on her lap with the other. Caleb: Bought out the Piggly Wiggly. Hope you can figure out something to cook. She laughed a little. I can make a meal out of anything. Caleb: Looking forward to you making good on that boast. Be there in five minutes. Folding the paper carefully, she gave it back to Dinah. “I have to go. Caleb is picking me up soon.” “Another date?” his mother asked lightly. Standing, she shook out her skirt to make sure no June Bugs had landed on it. “I’m only cooking for him.” “Food is the way to my Caleb’s heart.” Unease coursed through Sofia. She didn’t want Dinah to get the wrong impression. “We’re just friends.” Dinah smiled up at her. “Of course you are, dear. Everyone knows that friends put on their best frocks for courting.” “This isn’t my best dress.” No, she’d worn her best dress on their first date. This dress was suitable for church and picnics. And second dates.

“Whatever you say.” Dinah added the WANT ads section back to the main paper. “I’ll keep this for you in the magazine rack in the living room.” “Thanks. I should be home around nine, if I had to guess. I know Caleb turns in early.” “You don’t have a curfew, but I appreciate the heads-up. Come in through the kitchen; David and I will still be up. But not waiting on you. Unless you need us to. We can make sure Caleb follows whatever rules you give him.” Sofia laughed. “I didn’t give him any.” “Oh sugar, no. Every woman has to lay down the rules.” “Even for your sons?” “Especially for my sons.” Dinah winked at her. “I hear his truck coming up the driveway now. Have a great time tonight. I’ll go inside so he doesn’t feel like he has to make small talk with me.” “See you later.” Heart beating faster than hummingbird wings, Sofia fixed her gaze on the driveway that curved around to the back of the house. She heard Dinah go inside, but the rumble of a truck engine held her attention. Stop it. Stop what? This! You’re like a teenager with a crush. I don’t have a crush. So the pushup bra is for who exactly? Caleb parked his truck, climbing out and striding to her, his gait confident. Once again, he wore a dark pair of jeans and a fitted T-shirt, but instead of a baseball cap, his brown hair was perfectly mussed. She wasn’t sure if he’d styled it like that on purpose or it was the result of driving with his windows down. Either way, he was too sexy for words. His dark blue eyes lit up when their gazes met. “Now I know why pretty as a picture is an expression.” “You’re going to make it very hard for me to find a decent man in Roswell,” she teased. The light dimmed a little in his eyes. “Are you ready to go?” Stupid girl. Why say something so dumb? She had to protect herself from becoming attached to this place, but Caleb only made it harder. Yet, here she was going on another date with him. Last time, she swore silently. After this, she would get a job in Holland Springs, or maybe at the beach where he’d taken her for dinner. No excuses. No leading on this poor man or his family. “I’ve been looking forward to this all day,” she said, then silently groaned. His answering smile made her heart flip. “Me, too.” Caleb’s house was nothing like she’d pictured. She’d fully expected something like his parents’ house —a sprawling farmhouse with double porches and gingerbread lattice. Instead, he lived in a modest craftsman-style house situated on the banks of a large body of water. It wasn’t the ocean, because she could see the other side in the distance. As they walked inside, she couldn’t help but be in awe of the craftsmanship and careful detail of the home. “Did you build this?” she asked, taking in the stained glass accents and beautiful hardwood floors. “Yes. It’s not very big—two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Kitchen’s nice and spacious, and there’s a great view of the Pamlico Sound. Got a dock out back. We can eat on the patio, if you want.” “Are you trying to sell your house to me?” she asked. “Would you stay in Jessamine, if I did?” He couldn’t be serious, but the look on his face said otherwise. “I do love your home—what I’ve seen of it, that is.” She delicately cleared her throat. “Show me the kitchen and what you bought at the grocery store.”

“By all means.” He led the way. “Is this enough space for you to cook?” Caleb moved deeper into the kitchen and flipped on the light switch. He heard Sofia gasp. “This is beautiful.” “Not as big as what you’re used to, but—” “The kitchens I worked in were tiny,” she said with a laugh. Running a finger over the butcher-block countertop of the island, she shook her head. “Your cabinets are gorgeous, and the gas stove—I could cook there for days.” Caleb opened the pantry, wanting her to love every part of his house. A dumb thing, considering she was hell bent on leaving Jessamine. “Supplies are in here, and the fridge is stocked.” She moved to stand beside him. “When you said you bought everything, you weren’t kidding.” His face heated a little. “How long have you lived here?” she asked. “About six years. I had my eye on this property for a long time, so when the owner decided to sell so she could move closer to her grandchildren, I didn’t waste any time buying it.” “A man who knows what he wants and goes after it,” she murmured before returning to the middle of the kitchen. “You go relax while I decide what to cook.” He let her shoo him away, but he didn’t go far. While he pretended to watch television, he kept a close eye on Sofia as she bustled around his kitchen —so naturally, like she truly belonged there. “Seriously, Caleb, did you go in my diary? This kitchen is perfecto!” She was perfect. With a playful smile, she marched to him, holding something in her hand. “Open,” she ordered softly, and his mouth parted. “You will love this, I promise.” He closed his lips around her offering, connecting with her fingertips. As the salty concoction hit his tongue, he sucked on her skin, and then pulled back a little. “Delicious.” She cocked her head to one side. “Are you sure?” “I always mean what I say.” With a satisfied smile, she whirled away from him, her dress flaring out at the bottom. “Dinner will be ready at five-thirty.” As he watched her sashay into the kitchen, he realized he was falling for a woman he knew wouldn’t stay. Hell, he hadn’t even properly kissed her. Maybe he should fix that tonight.

Chapter Eight After the best dinner he’d ever eaten, Caleb insisted on clearing the table and washing dishes. Sofia protested, but he got her to see things his way when he poured her a glass of wine. He grinned. It was nice taking care of her like that. Since Sofia was the type to clean as she went, there wasn’t much for him to do, and he finished rather quickly. “I think I like your system,” she said as he joined her in the living room. “I cook, you clean.” “Way it should be.” She eyed him, her dark brown gaze roaming over him. “You’d be surprised how often it is not.” “Not really. I have brothers.” “From what I hear, they’re not your average guys.” Caleb sat beside her on the love seat, so close their thighs almost touched. “If what you’re hearing is coming from my mother, then I have to inform you that she’s biased. Extremely so.” “As a mother should be.” With a thick sigh, she laid her head on his shoulder. Man, she felt good—so good that he refused to move a muscle. “I think your parents are lonely.” He glanced down at her. “What makes you think that?” “Dinah said she enjoyed having a young person in the house again.” “She has grandchildren. They come over all the time.” Well, they came over as much as their parents brought them. Everyone had full lives, including his parents, and he knew from all of their complaints that scheduling conflicts happened a lot. “That’s not the same as someone being there, day in and day out. Your parents are busy people; they’re active in the community, but in my family, the grandparents are special. A son or daughter either moves in with them, or moves them in to their household.” “No way would my parents give up their house or freedom.” “I understand, and I’m not criticizing, nor am I saying you should give up your house. I’m only sharing what I see and hear.” The way she cared about his parents made his head spin a little. His family was truly his greatest weakness and one of his greatest strengths. “That means a lot to me. The thing is, one day, I’ll eventually move back home. I’m the Lawson who farms, and every Lawson who runs the farm has lived in that house. The only reason why I bought this one was so that I could have something of my own for a little while.” She placed a hand on his arm, still leaning against his shoulder. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to bring up a sore subject.” “It’s not your fault,” he said softly. “I’m just tired of being the Lawson they all pity.” This time, she tipped up her chin, a question in her eyes. He braced for it. “Why would they pity you?” He wanted to tell her about Iris, about the baby ... everything ... but then she would look at him the same as everyone else. Call him selfish, but he wanted time with Sofia to be free of his past ... and he wanted her to view him as a man. “Because I haven’t settled down.” Her eyes narrowed slightly. “Are you telling me you’re the wild Lawson?” He laughed. “That would be my brother, Elijah. He’s a pilot. Travels the world. No telling where he is right now. Could be South Korea, could be Alaska.” “Have they considered that maybe you haven’t found the right woman yet?” she asked. He liked how she tagged on that yet, because it meant she saw him.

“I’m not sure exactly. I don’t share my business with them,” he admitted. “In case you haven’t noticed, I’m pretty quiet.” Her pretty eyes widened. “I haven’t noticed at all. Since the day I met you, you’ve talked my ear off.” “Smart tail,” he chided. “Doesn’t bother me if you’re quiet.” He dipped his head. “Why is that?” “’Cause I don’t need you to talk in order to know what you want. It’s pretty obvious.” “Oh really?” he asked, and she nodded. “What about right now? What do I want?” She licked her bottom lip slowly. “To kiss me.” “Is that a fact?” His voice got all low and rumbly. Her chin tipped up higher. So close. So damn close. “It’s that obvious.” Slowly, he touched the side of her face with the tips of his fingers. “I’d hate to prove a lady wrong, but...” He kissed her then. Brushed his lips across hers softly so that if she wasn’t of the same mind, she could tell him so. “Do that again,” she ordered. He smiled against her mouth. “Yes, ma’am.” She melted against him, even as he slid his hand halfway around the back of her neck, caressing the side of her face with his thumb. Deepening the kiss, he teased her mouth open and groaned when her tongue touched his. She tasted like sweet wine. His imagination didn’t begin to do the reality of their first kiss justice. Damn, it had been too long since he’d kissed a woman like this. Her hand gently grabbed his wrist, but not to push him away. Instead, she glided her hand up his arm, and then back down again. Desire hit him hard and sudden. He broke their kiss, dragging in air. “I’ve been wanting to do that since our first date.” She searched his face. “I’m glad you didn’t wait any longer.” “Just glad?” “I don’t want to hurt you, or get myself hurt either, Caleb.” He could hear the sincerity in her voice, but it still stung. “Look, I get that you’re set on leaving, but until you do, I’d like to be the man in your life. The only one. I don’t do temporary, but I think you’re worth whatever time you’ll give me.” Her mouth went slack. “You can’t be real.” “Afraid so, sweetheart. What do you say?” he asked. *** She’d said yes. God help her, she’d said yes to Caleb so fast that her head had spun around like a top. However, she wouldn’t regret it. She couldn’t regret something so sweet and sensual. That kiss had gotten to her. He’d gotten to her. Caleb had said exactly what she needed to hear, but she couldn’t dwell on that. Sofia focused on the bulletin board in the Piggly Wiggly where local jobs were posted. So far, no dice. Maybe Wednesday was a bad day to come. Later in the week, she come by here and try again. “Fancy seeing you again.” Sofia sliced her gaze to the woman she’d met the first time she’d driven into town. “Apricot, right?” The woman’s lips thinned. “Apple McCoy.”

Snapping her fingers, Sofia shook her head. “That’s right. Sorry. I’m terrible with names.” Actually, she wasn’t terrible with names at all, but something about Apple rubbed her the wrong way. A small part of her felt guilty because she knew she was judging her on appearance, but the rest of her bristled at the way Apple spoke to her. “Is there something specific you’re looking for—plane, train, or automobile. I’m sure there are Ubers somewhere around that could take you the rest of the way.” Apple gave her a sunny smile, but Sofia wasn’t fooled. She also didn’t think Apple was trying to fool her either. “Not yet. My stay here has been extended.” Sofia waved a hand in the air, just like she’d seen Dinah do. “You know how those unexpected things happen.” “I do indeed.” Apple adjusted her purse on her shoulder. “How are you liking Jessamine?” “What I’ve seen of it is beautiful, but I haven’t had a chance to get into town much. Too much to do on the Lawson farm.” Apple sucked in a breath. “You work there?” “Actually, I live there. My mother and Dinah Lawson were old college roommates. It’s like fate brought me here.” “Sounds like something my readers would love to know more about.” Sofia bet they would. “Then they can ask me.” She spun around, intending to walk away, but Apple grabbed her shoulder. “What exactly are your intentions with Caleb Lawson?” Slowly, Sofia turned around. “Why exactly are my intentions with anyone your business?” “Because I don’t want to see him hurt by a woman who plans on leaving.” “I think he’s man enough to handle me.” Apple’s mouth twisted. “That’s not in question, but his heart ... his mind, there’s not enough pieces of him left to share.” Anger rose, making her cheeks burn. “Just because you couldn’t hold on to him doesn’t mean I can’t.” A peal of laughter left Apple’s mouth. “I’m not the one you’ll have to compete with.” She shook her head. “You don’t know, do you?” Sofia considered lying, but her curiosity got the better of her. “Know what?” “That Iris will always own every bit of him, no matter how much he says otherwise.” The grocery store seemed to tilt. Music playing in the background faded away. Signs became blurry. “Who’s Iris?” she croaked. Apple tsked. “I have said too much.” “Tell me.” Please don’t let him be married. “Fine,” Apple said, drawing out the word. “Iris is his wife. He goes to see her every Wednesday.”

Chapter Nine Caleb stood at Iris’s grave, a fresh bouquet in his hand. He took out the old ones and placed the new ones in the vase. “I met someone,” he confessed. “You would like her, I think. She’s ah ... I like her. Maybe more than like her.” The wind blew, ruffling his hair. For a moment, he slipped back into his grief and pretended it was Iris touching him. “Can’t keep doing that,” he mumbled, then cleared his throat. “Sofia—that’s her name—is exactly what I need. She doesn’t mind when I’m quiet, and she likes to cook. Back home, she used to be a chef in fancy restaurants that the two of us couldn’t afford.” He laughed a little, then got quiet and sat down on the bench beside her grave. He felt like he owed Iris by coming here every Wednesday. Her parents had long since moved away, their grief for their daughter too overwhelming to stay in Jessamine. They still visited her grave, just not as often as he did, but she’d been his wife. “We tease each other a lot, and I got Old Blue working for her. Remember when we drove that truck down to the beach and got it stuck? Should’ve known the sand was too soft for two-wheel drive.” There was a light touch on his shoulder, and he jerked his head around. Sofia stood there, tears in her beautiful brown eyes. “Hey, uh...” he began, unable to find the words to finish his explanation. “I didn’t mean to disturb you. Thought I could sit with you and pay my respects.” Without waiting for him to say otherwise, she sat and grabbed his hand, squeezing once before letting go. “How did you know I was here?” he couldn’t help but ask. “While I was driving around, I saw your truck from the road.” She sighed thickly. “Apple said you visited your wife every Wednesday. This wasn’t what I imagined.” “It wasn’t what I imagined either,” he said honestly. Sofia’s gaze flicked to the headstone. “She was so young.” “We both were.” He clenched his jaw, unwilling to let those awful memories into the forefront of his mind. “She suffered from seizures. Had one while she was driving to the ... driving to town ... and hit a tree. Her heart couldn’t take it. I got to say goodbye though.” “How?” “Happened upon the accident.” Sofia’s lips trembled. “I found my mother. She’d died of a brain aneurysm. One minute we were on the phone, and then the next, the line went dead. Or so I thought. I ran the entire way home from school because I felt something was wrong.” She touched her chest. “Turns out I was right. There was nothing anyone could have done. It was a freak thing.” “That’s what I was told about Iris, but I’m not so sure about that.” “Quit beating yourself up. It’s not only useless, it’s not fair to you or her memory.” He looked at Sofia in wonder. Her eyes were empathetic. “You’re the first person to put it like that.” “That’s because I know what it’s like to lose the most important person in your life.” His chest got tight, and a lump grew in his throat. Somehow, they both reached for each other’s hands at the same time, their fingers lacing together. They sat there for a long time, not saying a word, while the wind blew and birds sang. The sun rose higher in the sky, until the only shade was directly under the trees in the cemetery. But Sofia didn’t move, so neither did he.

“I’m glad you know. Just wish I’d been the one to tell you.” But he couldn’t tell Sofia about the baby. He wasn’t ready for that, and since no one knew but his dad, he didn’t have to worry about her finding out before he was ready to share. Honestly, he didn’t know if he’d ever be ready to share. Except after today, he knew he was one day closer. The next morning, Caleb was drinking coffee at Walter’s Feed and Seed while the more seasoned farmers discussed crops, weather, and politics. He didn’t participate all that much, choosing to listen instead. “Had to destroy the entire field,” one said, and the other men commiserated. It was a well-known fact that if one crop cross-pollinated with another crop that was grown from seed via AgriCorp, the crop had to be destroyed, under penalty of law. Since not a single farmer he knew relished paying hefty fines, they chose to burn their fields instead. Farming was expensive. They couldn’t even replant extra seed from the year before due to the deals that were made with Big Agriculture. So, quite a few families in the area pooled their resources to help defray the cost. They all agreed that no one, least of all in Washington, were looking out for the family farms. It was corporations that lined the pockets of every congressman and woman who publicly proclaimed to be for the little guy. Not even the president was innocent. Caleb wanted to complain, but he didn’t think it would do much good. None of their representatives were sitting here, hanging on every word, because it wasn’t election season ... yet. In the past, they’d signed petitions to voice their concerns, but that hadn’t helped either. Honestly, he wasn’t sure what would get Washington’s attention. The only thing Caleb was sure of was hard work, and he could do that. So he’d listen for a few more minutes while he finished his coffee, then head back home to eat breakfast with a beautiful woman. And his parents, of course. Yeah, it was a rather odd situation, but he didn’t have any other choice. “See y’all later,” he said, touching the bill of his cap. By the time he walked into the kitchen, no one was there but Sofia, who was humming while she cooked. Her long, dark hair was pulled into a ponytail while her choice of outfit was a pair of shorts and a red top. She looked good. Hell, she looked good in whatever she wore. He suspected she’d look even better out of her clothes. While he was strung tighter than a bow during hunting season, he’d keep his thoughts of a naked Sofia to himself. Yesterday had been sort of a breakthrough for him, but he wasn’t sure how Sofia would react today. Did she regret finding him there? He knew he didn’t, although he couldn’t have that heart-to-heart with Apple fast enough for his liking. The best thing he could do was act normal, or as normal as he could get. Fine, he’d just do what came natural to him, and if she didn’t like it, then she’d let him know and he’d stop. Simple as that. Scary as hell. Do it anyway. “Morning,” he said, moving to her and placing his hands on her curvy hips. He kissed the side of her neck. She shivered a little, smiling as she turned to him. “Hello, handsome. It’s just us for breakfast.” “Just us, huh?” He wriggled his eyebrows playfully. “Does that mean you can sit in my lap and let me feed you?” Okay, so he might be moving fast, but she wouldn’t be here forever. “That’s ... appealing. Very appealing.” She lightly nudged him with her hip. “Go sit down, papi. I’m almost done flipping the last pancake.”

Grinning, he let go of her and made his way to the table. He made sure to leave enough room between him and the table for Sofia. “Where is everyone?” “Meeting your brother, Elijah, at the airport in Wilmington. They left really early this morning.” “You didn’t want to go?” She turned off the burner and slid the pancake onto a small platter, then joined him at the table and placed the dish in the center. “Should I have gone, too?” Jealousy reared its ugly head. “Hell, no.” He patted his leg. “Have a seat, honey.” “Best seat in the house.” Her sweet ass touched his thigh, then her full weight came down on him as she scooted back. She was truly going to sit there and allow him to feed her. If this wasn’t the best day ever, he didn’t know what was. “I’m ready for breakfast.” He began to feed her bites of bacon and eggs first, followed by her mouthwatering pancakes, smothered with syrup. To his surprise, she did the same for him, giggling when he tried to take the bacon from her before she was ready. She popped the slice into her mouth, then gave him a stern look as she ate it. “Behave ... or no more bacon.” “You sure are bossy in the kitchen,” he said, liking her sassiness. “My domain, my rules.” “Yes, ma’am.” She rolled her eyes and leaned against him. “What are your plans for the day?” “Can’t think of a single one right now.” Laughter bubbled up. “Am I that much of a distraction?” “Not at all.” Her brow creased. “I don’t understand.” He grabbed her hand, lacing his fingers with hers. “A distraction is usually viewed as a bad thing. What you do to me is anything but bad.” “Are you sure about that?” she asked, her voice low and throaty. “Because while I’m not bad girl, I can be a little naughty.” This time, she was the one to initiate their kiss. She kissed him slowly. Sweetly. Made his toes curl in his boots. With the next pass of her clever tongue, he grew hard. He leaned back a little, breaking their kiss. “I need to stop.” “Turning you on and feeling the evidence of that does not bother me.” She nipped at his bottom lip. “You’re doing the same thing to me.” He swept his lips over hers, tasting and exploring every inch of her sweet mouth. With a groan, he pulled away again. “I have to get to work.” She rested her forehead against his. “Think you can get off early this Friday?” “I might be able to swing that.” “Good, because I want to go skinny dipping in your pond.” Before he could respond, she was out of his lap and heading upstairs. The rest of the week went by slower than a snail traveling through mud. Not even meeting Caleb’s globe-traveling brother, Elijah, helped speed things along. Although, it did cause a huge commotion when word spread throughout the family. Which was why, on Thursday evening, she found herself sitting at the mile-long dining room table surrounded by Lawsons. Luckily, Caleb sat beside her. He stayed quiet for the most part, only talking to her in hushed tones while his brothers and their wives asked Elijah a million questions. Their parents had already retired for the night, taking a couple of the grandbabies with them.

“Good to see that nothing changes around here,” Elijah said, smiling broadly. “Especially you Caleb. Don’t know what I’d do if you changed.” One of the brothers snorted—Brody, maybe? “There’s no way he could get quieter.” “No way he’d leave the farm either.” For no real reason at all, or maybe she didn’t like the way his brothers picked on him, she leaned into Caleb and whispered loudly, “I’m so looking forward to skinny dipping with you, papi.” When she felt all eyes on her, she hastily added, “Again.” Caleb turned to her, his voice just as loud, “My favorite part was applying sunscreen all over your pretty,” His eyes dropped her chest for a minute before returning to her face, “skin.” A couple of the wives giggled. One of them, Sydney, she thought, grinned and said, “Y’all mind telling me where this pond is?” “Only if you’re going to drown Brody when you get there,” Caleb replied. Elijah toasted Caleb. “Always said no one is more in love with Brody than his mirror.” Conversation returned to normal, but Sofia couldn’t help but seriously lower her voice. “Was that too much?” she asked. “It was just right.” He reached under the table and grabbed her hand, not letting go of it until it was time to clear the table.

Chapter Ten Sofia was having an out of body experience. That was the only explanation as to why she stood rooted to the ground, staring at Caleb as he walked toward her. Okay, so the other reason might be because he was nude, or at least she thought he was nude. Honestly, she couldn’t tell yet, because the water hit him at hip level. The rest of him was on display, giving her the best view ever of his washboard abs, muscular chest, wide shoulders, and defined arms. Lord, that man was the very definition of caliente. He gave her a cocky smile, the first she’d ever seen on him, and stopped. “Water’s fine. C’mon in.” “Are you wearing shorts?” she asked, taking off her shirt and shimmying out of her shirt, leaving on a bright orange two-piece that she’d worn underneath. She wore it just in case their little rendezvous wouldn’t be private. “I might, then again I might not.” He winked. “You don’t have to take your bathing suit off if you don’t feel comfortable.” “I don’t feel comfortable.” Her hands went to the back of her neck so she could loosen the ties of her bikini top. It fell to the ground, and his eyes widened in obvious appreciation. She left her bottoms on, though, but it wasn’t because she didn’t trust Caleb. She wasn’t quite sure she trusted what was in the water. All she needed was a fish to nibble on her vagina and she was so out. “Are there any fish?” “Maybe a few, but you don’t have to worry about them. They’re scared of us,” he said, his gaze on her bare breasts as she slowly dipped a toe in the water. “All the snapping turtles help, too.” She jerked her foot out. “What?” A grin split his face. “Only kidding.” “Caleb Lawson, I can’t believe you’d tease me like that.” Putting a hand on one hip, she shook a finger at him. “No more jokes.” “Fair enough.” He splashed water on his chest, his arms a bit lighter in color than the skin on his neck, face, and hands. “But you’d better get in here before I change my mind and go home.” The water was only a little cool, nothing she couldn’t handle, so she walked right in. Caleb moved toward her, his face growing more serious the closer he got. When they were close enough to touch, he kissed her forehead, and then her nose, before settling on her mouth. His kiss was maddeningly sweet and slow, and worse, he wouldn’t touch her. She was dying for him to touch her. Unable to take it a second longer, she pressed against him, wrapping her arms around his neck. He audibly groaned. “You feel amazing,” he said, his hands coming to rest on her back. “So damn soft ... I want to touch and kiss you everywhere.” “No one’s stopping you.” He set her back from him for a moment, then touched the center of her chest with only the tips of his fingers. Drops of water collected on the ends and ran down her skin, making her shiver in the hot afternoon sun. His fingers followed the contours of her body, the slope of her breasts, and the curve of her waist. Desire ignited low in her belly as he touched her more boldly. With every pass, every sweep of his fingers, she fell further under his spell. He touched her so reverently, yet as his large hands cupped her breasts and made her nipples harden into points, she throbbed inside. “Caleb,” she whispered, swaying toward him as her eyes closed. She trusted him to catch her. Suddenly, he stopped his erotic explorations and cupped her shoulders. “Ready to swim?”

“What?” Her eyes popped open. “No.” “I need a minute.” Confused, she sputtered, “To do what?” He tilted his head to one side. “Touching you is like discovering heaven, and it’s hard for me not to go off like a half-cocked gun.” “Oh.” A bashful smile touched his full lips. “It’s been a long time for me, more than ten years since I was last with a woman.” A woman? Not his wife? She shouldn’t judge, and she wouldn’t. It wasn’t her place. And who was she to tell him how to grieve? “It’s been a long time for me, too. Not a decade, but two years feels like it,” she said with a nervous laugh. “Guess we’re just about evenly matched.” “Not really,” she said and shoved her hands in the water, cupping them. “You’re way too dry.” Quickly, she lifted her arms and dumped handfuls of water on him. “Now we’re even.” He shook his head like a wet dog, his blue eyes turning mischievous. “I’ll give you two-second head start.” With a playful scream, she turned around and started pushing through the water to get to shore. Unfortunately, two seconds wasn’t enough, and Caleb caught her in a hug from behind. Maybe she wasn’t so unfortunate after all. He kissed the side of her neck and moved his hands around front, cupping her breasts once more. He kneaded them, rubbed her hard, aching nipples, and made her head fall back against his chest from the pleasure. One hand moved lower and lower, until his fingertips grazed under her bikini bottoms. Worried he wouldn’t move from that spot, she grabbed his wrist and attempted to force him down. “I’m going. I’m going. Just taking my time and enjoying the view.” He laughed low in his throat. “Be sure to tell me what you like ... after you loosen your grip.” A whimper left her as she let go of him. “Don’t stop, please.” “Wouldn’t dream of it.” Then his fingers delved between her sex, finding her swollen clit. She cried out, her hips thrusting forward of their own accord. “There. Please. There.” He rubbed her firmly, then lightly. Sometimes moving clockwise and other times, the opposite way. She almost growled in frustration. “I thought you said you wouldn’t dream of teasing me.” “Thought you were going tell me what you like?” His fingers caressed her, one sliding inside, and she gasped. “That’s what you were waiting for?” “Mmm-hmm.” He slid in a second finger, and she moaned. “We’ll put that in the like category.” Grinding the heel of his hand against her clit, he moved in time to his thrusts. She grabbed his arm, chanting, “Yes. Yes. Yes.” “You’re close, aren’t you?” he asked, his voice rumbling in his chest. “So close.” “That’s a shame because I’d really like to put one of those tempting nipples of yours in my mouth. Suck and nibble, tease it with my tongue.” Her thighs began to tremble, her stomach quivering as he pushed her closer ... and closer ... to the edge. She moved her hips, trying to get him deeper, trying to get him to go faster. “Then again, I want to lick your pussy, too. Drink you down, cover my lips and tongue with all that sweetness.” He lightly pinched her nipple, and she bit down on her lip. “Hear you cry out my name.

You’ll own me then. Hell, you own me now.” Dipping his head, he lightly sucked on her neck and thrust hard and deep inside of her. She fell to pieces in the best way possible, crying out his name just like he wanted, but she didn’t do it just for him. She couldn’t help herself. It seemed natural and right as the sun beat down on them, as cool water lapped against their overheated skin, and her orgasm went on and on. He said such sweet things now, words of love and sex so intertwined with one another that she couldn’t quite comprehend it all. When she came to her senses, and her heart started slowing, Caleb let his fingers slide out of her before turning her to face him. “You ready for that swim now?” She stared at him in confusion. “You don’t want me to do the same for you?” His cheeks turned adorably red. “You already did.” Her brows drew together until understanding dawned. She dropped her gaze to the water, then back to his face. “Was it good for you?” “Better than good.” He eyed her. “I won’t tell you when it happened though. You might toss me back in the water.” She wrapped her arms around him. “Not a chance.” The next day, Caleb sat in the shade of a tractor with the men who worked on the farm, eating lunch that Sofia had cooked and taken out to them in the field. “Can Sofia cook again?” Marco asked. “Or share this recipe with your mother. Don’t get me wrong, Mrs. Lawson is a good cook, but this is home.” “I’d pay for it,” Jose chimed in, and Caleb perked up a little. “You would?” Caleb stretched out his legs. “Do you think other guys would at the farms that don’t do lunch for them?” “They wouldn’t step twice,” Paco said, and Jose elbowed him. “What?” They all laughed. “Not step. Think.” He pointed to his head and repeated himself in Spanish. “Make sense?” “Yes. That one gets me. So many to remember,” Paco said, then finished off his water. As they cleaned up their trash, Caleb couldn’t get their comments out of his head. Sofia hadn’t found a job yet, and he was worried her lack of employment would send her to Roswell earlier than planned. Either his parents would help her, or one of her friends. Maybe even someone from her family, although Sofia insisted that she wouldn’t ask them for more help than they’d already given her. Mind made up, he climbed the side steps of the tractor and called out to Marco. “I’ll talk to my mom and Sofia.” “Thank you.” Marco turned to the other men, assuming his position as supervisor and motioning to them. “Amigos.” Caleb surveyed the field before him and pulled his sunglasses down over his eyes. He had a date with Sofia Monday night, so he’d wait until then to speak with her about it. First, he had to talk with his mom, and not because he thought he needed her permission. No, he needed his parents’ advice. If Sofia were to take on making lunch for surrounding farms, she would have to set up a way to get the food to them, or have them come to her. Somehow, if she agreed with his suggestion, he’d find a way to make this happen. He’d find a way to ensure that Sofia stayed in Jessamine permanently.

Chapter Eleven Off in the distance, the sun was setting and fireflies were making their presence known. Sofia sat near him on the front porch of his parents’ house, painting her toenails a bright shade of orange that brought her bikini to mind. Which made him think of skinny-dipping with her. Even with their bottoms intact, the entire experience was one he wanted to repeat. “Your mother said that the owners from surrounding farms called, wanting to know if I could make lunches for the men who worked for them,” Sofia said. Caleb’s hands stilled on the lengths of twine he was braiding in order to make a rope. “Word got around fast,” he said, pride surging for her. “What do you think?” He already knew what his parents thought. Last night, he asked for their opinion and possible use of their kitchen. They had immediately said yes. She smiled a little. “I’m willing to try it. Dinah said I could use the kitchen and the garden. She even said she’d loan me the money for ingredients she didn’t have on hand.” “Bet it wouldn’t take you any time to pay her back either.” One of her dark brows arched. “You think so?” “I know so.” She fairly beamed at his compliment, then went back to painting her toenails. “I can start out doing it two days a week to see how things go. There’s only me, and your mother still needs my help.” “We’re here to help you, too,” he said quietly. “Who knows what could happen with this? Maybe you’ll start your own restaurant.” She laughed. “Do you know how much it costs?” “A lot.” “Yeah, a lot, but maybe one day ... Although, I could do what my friend Carla did and get a food truck.” “Like the kind you see at the fair or football games, and they serve hamburgers and hotdogs out of them.” “Something like that.” She glanced up at him. “Only the one Carla has is amazing. The kitchen is practically state of the art. She even has a portion of it dedicated to a soda machine and fixings.” Caleb stored that information in his brain. He’d have to look into that. “But she also has a lot of responsibilities. A lot of worries.” She screwed the cap on the bottle of polish and wriggled her toes. “What do you think?” “One, I think you could handle the responsibilities, and two, I think watching you do your toes is one of the cutest things I’ve ever seen.” “Did your wife do that a lot?” she asked, then winced. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have asked.” “It’s okay.” He set to braiding the twine again. He needed to have something to do while he talked about Iris. “I don’t remember her doing it, but I’m pretty sure she went into town to get that stuff done.” He exhaled, then got up to sit on the steps beside Sofia, needing to be physically closer to her. “Honestly, I’ve forgotten more than I remember about Iris. We were together for only two years. Probably should have waited longer to marry her, but once a Lawson man is all in, he’s all in.” She laced her fingers with his and leaned against his shoulder. “That sounds very romantic.” There wasn’t an iota of jealousy in her tone, and for that he was thankful. Glancing at her, he asked, “Am I wasting your time?” “No.”

He didn’t press her for more. Instead, he maneuvered them until she was in his arms and he could kiss her cheek. “I’m glad that bus brought you to Jessamine.” “Me, too,” he thought he heard her reply, but it could have been the wind. Or wishful thinking. The next day, Caleb went into town to have a talk with Apple. Typically, she spent the majority of her time running The Jessamine Daily, so he figured he would start there. She was in her office when he arrived, so he knocked on the clear glass of her door and waited. Apple’s eyes widened slightly as she crossed the room to open the door, but other than that, she showed no emotion at his being there. “We need to clear the air between us,” he said without preamble and stepped inside. “Please. Do come inside,” Apple muttered as she shut the door behind him. “I think I’ve hurt you, but I don’t know exactly how or why—” “Maybe because you were the one to take Iris from me,” she snapped. He turned to look at her. “I didn’t take her from you. You removed yourself from her life.” Her lips thinned for a moment. “Trust a Lawson to never admit wrongdoing.” “Except I said I hurt you,” he pointed out. “I want to make things right.” Her face softened. “Because you are taking out how you feel about me on innocent people.” Blue eyes narrowed at him. “I suppose Sofia told you about our conversation.” “Bits and pieces.” He ran a hand through his hair. “I don’t get you. We haven’t spoken in years, Apple, and now, out of the blue, you’re badgering Sofia and talking about Iris like she’s still alive.” She waved a hand at him, as if trying to dismiss him. “I only told her the truth, but she didn’t listen.” “The truth about what?” “Oh ... that uh, your heart would always belong to your wife.” His mouth dropped open. She had the decency to blush. “Why in God’s name would you say something like that? Why would you try to push Sofia away from me? Make her pity me?” “There are other women you could date, you know,” she replied, but it didn’t escape him that she hadn’t answered his questions. Jaw working, he crossed his arms. “You mean like you?” She laughed. “Please. As if I’d ever be a farmer’s wife.” “Once, I considered you a friend, and I tried to understand why you didn’t come to Iris’s funeral, because we all grieve differently, but the girl I knew way back then, she wouldn’t be like this. She was kind. A little on the shy side, quiet.” “I’m not that girl anymore,” she said tightly. “That girl died with Iris.” Caleb sighed. He wouldn’t get straight answers from Apple. “Sorry to hear that. I liked that girl.” “But you didn’t love her back,” Apple said softly. “I loved Iris,” he said evenly. “But you were mine first.” He blinked at her. “Is that truly what you think?” Bottom lip trembling, she nodded. “You took me out on a date, and then to prom ... then you and Iris ran off and got married.” Heart hurting for her, he reached out and touched her arm. “I didn’t mean for you to think anything of it. I only asked you out because Iris said that you were shy and didn’t want to go to prom without a date.” Hurt flashed in Apple’s blue eyes. “But you took me to dinner.” “To get the information on prom, and so things wouldn’t be awkward,” he pointed out. He searched his memories, trying to see if there was any time that he’d led her on, but he came up with nothing. “Your cousin’s heart was in the right place, but it looks as though you got hurt anyway. For that, I’m sorry.”

She jerked away from him. “I can’t forgive you right now. You’re the reason why I hated Iris on the day she died.” He shook his head. “No. That’s all on you. Iris reached out to you over and over again, but you refused to let her in.” “I don’t want hear this.” “You need to hear this. You need to move on with your life.” He shoved his hands into his pockets. “One day, you’ll get a chance to ask for Iris’s forgiveness face to face, but right now, you need to forgive yourself.” “Easy for you to say.” “You were seventeen, Apple. Can’t beat yourself up forever.” Her eyes closed then opened. “I appreciate you coming to talk with me, Caleb. I know it wasn’t easy.” “You’re welcome, but I should have done this years ago.” She gave him a quivering smile and tipped up her chin. “Yes, you should have.” “I’ll show myself out,” he said. Then he walked out of Apple’s office. *** Almost a week later, Sofia stood in front of the mirror, getting ready for her date with Caleb. He was being tight-lipped about where he was taking her, but she didn’t mind. It was kind of exciting. Okay, so it was more than a little exciting. Except ... nothing had gone to plan in regards to her move to Roswell. Iona hadn’t returned a single call, text, or email. And, while the three days she’d cooked and then sold her lunches had been a huge success, it seemed almost a waste of her skills. She loved cooking, loved spending time with Dinah in the kitchen and Caleb in the vegetable garden. David entertained them all with his softly spoken humor. However, she hadn’t spent four years in culinary school to cook lunch. Was she supposed to throw all that away simply because she met a man who seemed too good to be true? Caleb was genuine, kind, and caring. He also kissed her so passionately that her toes were close to permanently curled. But Caleb was not her dream. Who are you trying to fool? Career first, man second. You did that already; maybe try it the other way? “You’re no help,” she scolded her reflection. “And I can’t hurt him. He’s...” He was special to her, and, in any other circumstances, she wouldn’t hesitate to want more than just temporary with him. “Things could get so bad,” she muttered, rubbing her forehead. She consoled herself with the fact that Caleb knew she was only staying temporarily. He knew what her ultimate goal was, and hadn’t he been the one to encourage her to earn money to get to her goal faster? “Sofia,” Dinah called up the stairs. “Caleb is here.” “I’m coming.” She gave her reflection one last look. “Just enjoy yourself. Enjoy spending time with him while you’re here.” He took her dancing. That had been his surprise. Her heart fluttered in her chest as he led her inside his house. She went willingly, practically throwing herself into his arms to kiss him. She hadn’t had that much fun since ... she wasn’t sure when. Caleb had spun her around, attempted to Salsa, and made sure that she danced to every song. Even if it weren’t with him.

His lips found a sensitive part on her neck and she moaned. “More.” And now ... she was turned on, sweaty from dancing, and falling into Caleb’s bed. The lamp beside the bed glowed as she laughed. “Your mattress is like a cloud. I’m never leaving.” “You can stay with me for as long as you want.” “Forever seems good,” she replied, then wanted to snatch back the words. She shouldn’t have said that, but it was almost as she couldn’t help herself. Almost like her heart wanted it to be true. He simply stood there, looking at her. She rose on her elbows. “Are you joining me?” “I want to do more than sleep with you,” he said, slowly unbuttoning his shirt. Grabbing her shoes, she tossed them to the other side of the bed, and then proceeded to wriggle out of her dress, leaving her in nothing but scraps of lace that masqueraded as panties. “I was hoping you’d say that.” His hands trembled as he worked at his jeans, but he didn’t stop or falter. In a matter of seconds, he was naked. And he was hard. And he was hers. He placed a knee on the bed, making it dip a little. “You have to stay the night.” She held out her arms to him. “I’ll stay.” A wealth of emotion played out over his face, but he didn’t say anything more. Instead, he climbed the rest of the way onto the mattress and covered her body with his.

Chapter Twelve His large body settled on top of hers, and she sighed dreamily, but then she got a good look at his face and gasped. Raw, stark emotion filled his dark blue eyes. “Are you sure you want to do this?” she asked. “I can hold you, or we can snuggle.” He caressed her face. “There’s no one in this room but me and you.” He touched his head, and then his heart. “No one there but you.” Her heart stuttered. “Caleb,” she said on an exhale. “I promise not to be quick like down at the pond,” he said, drawing a giggle from her. She kissed him. “No idea what you’re talking about. I was fully satisfied that day.” He grinned down at her, rocking his hips into her. “I wouldn’t say fully, but you’re about to be.” His head dipped, his hot mouth wrapping around a tight nipple, alternating between sucking hard and lightly flicking her with his tongue. Moaning, she moved against him, touching him everywhere she could reach and loving every single groan that rumbled from his chest. His body heaved against her, his skin peppered with goosebumps as she licked at his biceps. “You taste good.” “Pretty sure that’s my line.” He kissed the tip of each breast, then scooted himself backward. “Pretty sure I finally get to taste you.” With a saucy grin, she rubbed her clit and spread herself for him. “I’m ready for you.” “Not quite.” He put his mouth on her, his tongue darting out to lick her. She cried out his name, her stomach contracting as waves of pleasure hit her. He sucked on her clit, and her vision fogged. Her head fell back against the pillows even as her back arched off the bed. Caleb was relentless, adding his fingers to the mix, while his talented tongue did things that made her entire body break out in a sweat. He kept pushing her to the edge, then stopping at the last minute to change his attack. Finally, finally he shoved his fingers deep inside of her and lightly scraped his teeth over her clit, making her come so hard she swore she saw stars. Planets. The galaxy exploding. He kissed her inners thighs and climbed up her body, but she wasn’t about to let him go without. Pushing him down on the bed, she positioned herself over his erection and took the head of it into her mouth. Caleb hissed, his eyes widening, then tightly closing. “That feels so damn good.” She went lower and lower, then up and up, finding a rhythm that he liked as her hands helped stroke him. His fingers tunneled into her hair, and she waited for him to guide her, but he merely rubbed her scalp. Was he afraid of hurting her? She turned a little, putting one of her hands over his and pushing lightly. His eyes popped open. “Maybe a couple of times, but I’m ready right now.” Taking as much of him as she could into her mouth, she pumped him hard with her hand. He groaned and pushed her away. “Did you like that?” she asked as he flipped her onto her back. He kissed her in answer, then leaned to one side and opened his bedside table draw, pulling out a condom. Once the condom was on, he nudged her with the head of his erection.

“Put me inside of you.” She grabbed the base of his wide cock, guiding him to where she was hot and needy. Desperate to be filled. Inch-by-delicious-inch, he began to fill her, stretch her, and her nails dug into his shoulder. “You can let go now,” he whispered before capturing her mouth with his. Both hands were on his shoulders now, her legs spread as wide as they could. He rocked into her, over and over, sending thrills of desire sparking over her nerves, until his cock was deep. She gasped into his mouth, and he began to move, one hand on her hip while the other palmed her breast. With every deep nudge, he hit her in a spot so sensitive that he had her on edge in seconds, but she wanted to draw this out, wanted to stay locked in his embrace for as long as possible. Suddenly, he buried his face into her neck, his strokes hard and fast. His grip on her hip tightened as she attempted to take as much of him as she could. “Caleb, Caleb, Caleb,” his name was a chant on her lips. “You feel so good, Sofia.” He lifted up slightly, but his hips never stopped moving. “I want to feel you come this time.” She kissed him hard, then slipped her hand between them, rubbing herself just the way she liked, concentrating on how hard he was, how heavy, and how good it felt to be completely imprisoned by him at this moment. “I can’t wait,” he said, his hips surging. With one final pass, she exploded, her orgasm making her scream this time. Caleb moaned her name, going deeper and deeper until he stopped moving. He looked at her, planting his elbows alongside her, and framed her face in his hands. “I love you, even if you don’t feel the same way about me. I can’t keep it inside anymore.” “I ... I...” Overwhelmed, she started to tear up. Of course, when she had no intentions of staying. “I’m sorry.” “Honey, I wasn’t trying to make you cry.” He kissed away her tears. “Forget I said anything. Blame it on an orgasm that ripped off the top of my head.” She snorted, then began to laugh. “I have never heard that in my life.” “Much better,” he said. “Let me hold you for a minute, then I’ll get cleaned up.” Hold me forever, she wanted to say, but she didn’t. What could she say? How could she respond to Caleb’s I love you? Worse, how would she ever leave Jessamine now?

Chapter Thirteen Caleb ran his hand up and down Sofia’s back in quiet contemplation. He’d kept her up most of the night, making love to her in every position imaginable. Now dawn was breaking, and he felt closer to her than he had to anyone in a long, long time. Her lashes fluttered open as she yawned and stretched. “I can’t believe you’re still awake.” The sheets dipped, exposing a dusty rose-colored nipple. It peaked in the cool air, but he resisted the temptation of touching it with his mouth, tongue, or fingers. Instead, he covered her up and said, “I haven’t told you everything about Iris’s death.” Sofia sat up in bed and touched his cheek. “You don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to. I don’t care what Apple says; your heart is your own.” He’d disagree with that statement, but it wasn’t time for that. “She was pregnant.” Her eyes widened. “I’m so sorry,” she breathed. “I don’t know what to else to say, but I’m so sorry Caleb.” “You don’t have to say a thing. Just listen.” He pressed a kiss to her lips, then settled back against the headboard, before lifting her slightly and settling her on his lap. “I need to hold you right now.” “You can hold me for as long as you need, or tell me to go sit in the other room while you text me. Whatever makes your comfortable,” she said, and he fell in love with her even more. “For a long time after Iris’s accident, I felt responsible for her death. The seizure that day happened because she hadn’t taken her full dose of medication. She didn’t want to hurt the baby. Thing is, I should never have gotten her pregnant without talking to the doctor first, but she insisted the woman would say no ... and I had a real hard time denying Iris. She wasn’t the type to demand things, so when she wanted something that bad ... I couldn’t help myself.” Sofia rubbed his arms. “I just know that if she hadn’t been pregnant, she wouldn’t have died that day. Never would have wrecked the car, never would have...” He swallowed. “I beat myself up a lot, and then drowned myself in alcohol and women. I’m not proud of myself, or the way I acted. I was barely twenty-one and pissed off at God, at Iris ... everyone. My brothers pulled me out of a bar before I could get in my truck and drive. Drunk. That’s where my head was. I wanted to die; only my dumbass thought I needed a little liquid courage. So I got shitfaced and planned to park my truck in the garage on this property. Keep the engine on. Wait to see that great white light, where I knew Iris was waiting for me on the other side.” He shook his head. “I never told anyone in my family about the baby, or my plans.” She turned to look at him, her eyes full of sympathy. “You were such a baby yourself.” “I was old enough to know better.” “About the women and the drinking, yes,” Sofia began, “but the rest ... grief will do a number on you.” She took a deep breath. “After my mother died, I started getting in with the wrong crowd, showing out ... my grades went down, and I was doing things that now make me cringe. It’s a wonder I didn’t end up dead ... or worse. But luckily, I confessed to my abuela, and she got me help. Didn’t take me long to wise up and get back on the right path. Cooking was my way to cope. It made me feel like I was in control. We are both fortunate to have families who love us so much.” He caressed her cheek. “I want you to know that this love I feel for you is real. It’s deep and true. You’re not a replacement or a stand-in. You’re Sofia Nogales, the woman I love.” Before she could say anything, he pushed her down onto the bed and made love to her again, his fingers laced tightly with hers the entire time. And when he came, all he could see and feel and think was one thing—Sofia.

***

Two days later, Sofia was sitting in bed, texting back and forth with Caleb when a text from Ione came through. Ione: Call me now. Have HUGE news. Her heart jumped into her throat. Sofia: Give me a minute With trembling fingers, she quickly texted Caleb to let him know she needed to talk with a friend. Caleb: Dream of me. She already did. She dreamed of living here, walking alongside him, and taking care of his parents. It was pathetic. Not her dreams or what happened in them, of course. But how quickly her plans were changing. Sofia: Good night. XO Ione answered on the first ring. “Girl, I’m so sorry. You wouldn’t believe what happened—my phone was stolen, my email hacked, and then the health inspector shut me down when someone reported a rat.” “What?” “Yeah, bastard from one of our biggest competitors was the one to report it. Line chef told me after she was unceremoniously fired for taking off when her kid was sick.” “Did you hire her?” Ione laughed. “What do you think?” She honestly had no idea, but she went with she chose to believe was the best way to answer. “That was really great of you.” “I try,” Ione replied with a chuckle. “Anyway, I’m calling for a friend. He wanted me to feel you out first, but lady, you cannot turn this down.” A sinking feeling grew in the pit of her stomach. “Turn what down?” “Your dream job. Hell, I’m tempted to close up shop and work for Oliver myself.” “The Oliver?” she all but croaked, unable to believe what Ione was telling her. There was no way. Oliver Chevalier was a celebrated chef in New York City. In the past few years, he’d opened restaurants in Atlanta, Dallas, and Los Angeles, with a ton of success. But he was also a demanding Frenchman known for his hot temperament and zero tolerance for less than perfect dishes. “Yup. His manager contacted me, wanting names. I gave her yours. The job would be perfect. Head Chef. Full benefits and the salary ... seriously, Sofia, I will go work for him if you turn this down. Screw the brewery.” “He’s opened a place in Roswell?” “No. He wants you for his Atlanta store.” Sofia’s mouth fell open. “Holy crap.” “I’ll email you the details, once I let Jamie know that you want the job.” Hesitating, she said, “Can I have some time to think about it?” “If you want to negotiate, I’m sure Oliver is open. And you can ask for relocation expenses, too. That will solve your money problems.” She didn’t want to negotiate or ask for relocation expenses. She wanted to pull the covers over her head and pretend that she’d never replied to Ione’s text. Because now she was torn. So torn. “That’s good to know.” “I so envy you. This is the opportunity of the lifetime.” Didn’t she know it. However, so was Caleb and what she’d found in Jessamine. “You’re a good friend to recommend me.” “Well, I am a good friend, but you were already on the short list. Your old boss at Las Rosas gave a very complimentary reference.” “He did?” she asked dazedly.

“Totally did. You have the luck of the Irish, Sof.” Ione laughed. “Just my luck,” she whispered, ending their call. How in the world would she break this to Caleb? He was the only one she could talk to about this. The only one she knew who would give her straight talk ... except for Dinah. Tossing her phone to one side, Sofia padded across the room and pulled on her robe before heading downstairs. There was a light on in the living room. Dinah sat in her recliner, watching television as she knitted a blanket for Lucas and Bailey’s new baby boy. David snored in the recliner beside her. “Is this a good time to talk?” Sofia whispered. Dinah set her knitting in her basket. “Of course, sugar.” Sofia hurried to the sofa, sitting on the edge with her hands clasped together. “I got a job offer.” The older woman’s eyes lit up. “That’s wonderful news, Sofia.” “It’s in Atlanta. The opportunity of a lifetime ... they’ll even pay for me to move.” She bit her lip as Dinah’s face fell. Oh no. She didn’t want to hurt her. “My friend Ione finally got in touch with me to see if I was interested.” “You haven’t said yes?” Dinah asked. “I haven’t said no.” Dinah nodded. “So you’re torn.” “Completely apart.” Tears gathered in her eyes, falling on her lashes and then onto her cheeks. “I don’t know how to tell Caleb. I don’t want to lose him.” His mother smiled compassionately at her. “The best thing you can do is be honest with him ... and yourself. If you really want this job, the opportunity of a lifetime, you’ll make things work, and so will he. However, if you don’t, then simply tell your friend no.” “You make it sound so easy, but it’s not.” “Love never is.” Sofia shook her head. “I’m not in love with Caleb, but I really like...” she sighed, unable to lie to the woman. “I haven’t told him.” “He knows.” “Don’t you tell him.” Dinah mimed zipping her lips. “Not my place. But, I have to be selfish and candid for a minute. I don’t want you to go.” “Because I make your son happy?” Dinah reached over and cupped Sofia’s chin. “Because you’ve brought laughter and sunshine back into my home.” “I can see why my mother called you her best friend.” “She was the best. She’s the one who convinced me that I’d be a fool not to marry David.” “Is that what you’re going to tell me?” Dinah let go. “That’s where it’s tricky.” “Why?” “Because as his mother, I would tell any woman who turned down my son that she’s a fool.” Dinah winked, and Sofia laughed through her tears. “Can’t argue with that.” However, in her heart, Sofia knew that her conversation with Caleb wouldn’t go this well. While he was patient and understanding, he was also very clear about wanting her to stay in Jessamine. There was no way she could claim she thought otherwise. And after all he shared with her about his wife, about their baby ... leaving him now felt like betrayal, even to her. Her heart pinched in her chest. She fought the urge to rub the spot, to make it feel better. Right now, she deserved to hurt.

She deserved to get a glimpse of what it would feel like to make the decision to leave Caleb behind.

Chapter Fourteen Caleb searched Craig’s List, hoping to find a food truck or at least a trailer that could work for Sofia. So far, the pickings were slim. Either the food truck looked as though it was on its last leg or it was completely stripped. He came to the last page, read down through the items, then jerked his gaze back up again. “Pristine condition, huh? We’ll see about that.” He doubled clicked on the link, bringing up the seller’s page. He read through the specs and carefully looked at each image twice. There were fifteen of them, but he didn’t care how long it took. Or where it was. He glanced down at the location. Greenville. Only forty-five minutes away. Dialing the contact number, he waited to speak the owner. “Hello?” “My name is Caleb Lawson and I’m calling about the food truck listed on Craig’s List. Is it still for sale and is that ninety thousand dollar price tag negotiable?” “Still for sale and the price is negotiable. Cash helps. My name is Dwayne Thorton but you can call me Wayne.” “Mind if I drive out to your place right now and take a look? I’m in Jessamine.” “Not at all.” Caleb barely remembered to get directions before he said good bye and hung up the phone. He grabbed his hat, his phone, and his car keys. His truck kicked up gravel as he blew out of his driveway. He prayed to God that the food truck looked exactly like pictured and that he could find a way to pay for it, if it did. * Thankfully, the truck not only looked exactly like the images, it smelled good too. Wayne said that a lot of them stunk to high Heaven because their owners didn’t know how to clean the grease traps properly. Caleb was pretty sure Sofia knew how to properly take care of a kitchen, but he asked Wayne to show him how to do it anyway, so he would know and be able to help her. He came to a four-way stop and looked around. There wasn’t a car in sight for miles, so he pulled out his phone and shot off a quick email to Ginger Wallace, one of the loan officers at Jessamine Savings & Loan. Hopefully, he’d have an answer from Ginger in the next day or two. * Exactly one day later, on a Thursday afternoon, Caleb knocked off work early, showered, and headed into town to meet with the loan officer at Jessamine Savings & Loan. Finding a spot fairly easily, he parked his truck and headed inside to Ginger’s office. “Thanks for meeting with me on such short notice,” he said, sitting down in one of the club chairs in front of her desk. “Anytime. The Lawsons are some of our best customers.” She clicked on the screen in front of her. “I read through the information you gave me. It seems fairly simple.” “What options do you have for me?” “You can get a credit line using the farm—”

“This isn’t a business expense. Well, it is, but not for the farm. This can’t be tied to the farm, because I’ll be a silent partner in this venture,” he explained. He couldn’t wait to explain it all to Sofia. He would provide the capital to get started, and, to pay him back, he’d get a percentage of sales. That way she could be her own woman and not feel beholden to him. “The other option is to mortgage your house. That would give you enough money to buy the truck, supplies, and provide for other expenses related to the business. However, if you were to default on the loan, not only would the bank own your house, it would own the food truck. We’d sell both to recover our losses.” He didn’t hesitate. “Done.” Ginger smiled. “I’ll have my assistant draw up the paperwork, then you can take it over to Phil Mickleson’s office. Have him go everything with you and bring it back to us. Our notary will witness the signature.” “I’ll call Phil now.” He pulled up his lawyer’s number but didn’t hit TALK. “Thanks for taking care of this so quickly.” “You were already preapproved. This was a no brainer.” She rose to her feet and stuck out her hand. “Nice doing business with you.” Standing, he shook her hand, then walked out of her office. He couldn’t wait to surprise her. Yes, it was extravagant, and yes, he was mortgaging the one thing he owned free and clear—well, besides his truck—but what else could he do? “Go big or let her get away.” No way in hell he was going to let that happen. * Check in hand, Caleb purchased the food truck and got Preston to follow him home. Once he’d backed it into the barn and closed the doors, he locked them for good measure. “Heard you and Apple had a conversation,” Preston said as he climbed out of Caleb’s truck. “Wondered how long it would take for you to find out.” “Like pulling fucking teeth,” Preston muttered. “However, she’s coming ‘round my way of thinking.” “The two of you are an item?” Grinning, Preston shook his head. “No.” “That makes you happy?” “The more I act disinterested in her, the more she comes to my bar.” Preston rubbed his hands together. “Never knew ignoring a woman would work so well.” “Thought you said talking to her was like pulling teeth.” Preston’s face fell. “That’s because she’s not interested in talking.” Understanding dawned. Understanding shocked him. Preston wasn’t interested in a physical-only type of relationship with Apple? “Is this a recent development?” “You could say that.” Preston crossed his arms over his chest and leaned back against the truck. “I might have bitten off more than I can chew.” “Maybe you should stop trying to bite her.” Caleb tugged on his ear. “Maybe you should stop playing games and tell her what you want.” “Adulting is beyond me right now.” Caleb gave his cousin a hard look. “You can fool the others, but you don’t fool me. I’ve seen you when a victim doesn’t survive. I’ve sat with you. Been there for you, like you were for me over the years. You’re not the guy my brothers think you are. People around town don’t think that about you either.” Preston tipped up his chin, his lips flattening a little. “I’ll think about it.” He uncrossed his arms. “I’m not trying to play games with her, really. It’s ... it’s just that you have to stay two steps ahead of her.”

“Try walking beside her.” “Try giving me a ride home, then you can surprise your girl and get married again.” “You say that like it’s a bad thing.” Caleb wouldn’t mind getting married again. He loved Sofia and wanted to be with her always. Marriage was a natural progression of things. Could he propose with a food truck instead of a diamond ring? Or should he get her something even more chef-related, like a— well, he didn’t know exactly. Maybe he should ask Bailey. Lucas’s wife would know since she ran a diner. “Stop making babies with Sofia in your head and get in the truck,” Preston ordered. Babies. That drew him up short. When he’d shared the full story of Iris’s death with Sofia, he hadn’t even thought of children with her. Mostly because he was trying to make sure she understood that what he felt for her wasn’t better or worse, just different. Right. “You can’t make babies in your head, Preston. Surely a trained medical professional such as yourself would know that.” Caleb opened the driver’s side door. “Did Mason tell you to say that?” Preston accused. Caleb leveled him with a look. “Who do you think taught Mason everything he knows?” Preston half-shrugged and nodded. “Touché.” “More tea?” Caleb asked her. Sofia shook her head. She was too nervous to eat or drink, a first for her. “You feeling okay?” He set down the glass pitcher and put his hand against her forehead. “Don’t feel feverish. Why don’t go you lay down, and I’ll take care of the dishes. We don’t have to go out tonight.” “I’m not sick.” “Nervous I’m going to try to make love to you in this house?” Sofia twisted her lips. “Your parents are gone for the rest of the week, so...” “You get to be my dessert.” He rubbed his hands together. “Don’t worry. The cows won’t talk about us carrying on.” Trust him to make her laugh when she felt like crying. “We need to talk.” “You stole my line.” She stared at him. Why was he so giddy? It wasn’t like him. Yes, he got excited about things, like when she showed him it was possible to have sex in the shower while standing, but this ... something was up. “You can go first.” Anything to delay the inevitable. He shook his head. “Ladies first, besides, you won’t be able to top my news.” “Ione finally got back to me. I’ve been offered the job of a lifetime to go work with Oliver Chevalier as the head chef at his place in Atlanta.” Caleb’s face flushed, but he didn’t say a word. “I know that’s nine hours away from here, but I think we could make things work. Still see each other on ... holidays, and when I ... you ... we have off.” This sounded much better in her head when she’d first worked it out this morning. She thought it was the perfect solution. “A long distance relationship?” he asked. She nodded. “I’m willing to give it a try.” His jaw worked. “What time off do you suppose we’ll have to see one another? You know my work schedule, and I for damn sure know your work ethic. You won’t take off, you’ll make your mark, and that won’t include having time for me.” He shoved his chair back and stood, walking to the sink. “Please don’t be that way. I want to talk this out. Get your input.” “Seems to me you’ve already made up your mind.” She hadn’t, but she wanted a way to have both. She wanted Caleb, and she wanted to be a head chef. Her heart twisted. Why did this have to hurt so badly? Why couldn’t the decision to leave be easy?

“If I’d made up my mind, then I wouldn’t be asking for your opinion.” He turned to face her. “Fine. You want my opinion?” “Yes. I do!” she cried, joining him at the sink. “I want to know what you think.” “I think if you leave, then we’re done.” “That’s it. You’re willing to throw everything away because you can’t deal with me working?” “Hold up. I’ve done nothing but encourage you, nothing but find a way for you to make money so you could get back on your feet. Not one damn time have I told you to give up. Not one damn time.” He slashed his hand through air. “For you to accuse me otherwise is wrong. I deserve better than that, and you know it.” She did know, but she was... “I don’t what to do. Tell me what to do.” His face gentled as he took her in his arms. She both loved and hated how good it felt to be held by him. “I’m not going to tell you what to do because you’ll resent me for the rest of your life. You know what I want, what I’m willing to do for you to stay here in Jessamine, but the decision to stay here is completely yours.” “I need to go.” She pulled away. “I need time to think ... to clear my head.” “Do what you have to, but I can’t guarantee that I’ll be here when you get back.”

Chapter Fifteen Somehow, Sofia managed to end up in a teahouse surrounded by women in large hats. At first she’d wanted to go to Yates’s Diner but didn’t want to get the family discount she didn’t deserve. Plus, if Bailey or Lucas were there, they would most likely want to chat about Caleb, which would lead to her breaking down like a cardboard box in the rain. At least it was cool in here, and the desserts were yummy. Before she had ended up in Jessamine, her path in life had been so clear, her goal to be a head chef in a five-star restaurant like Oliver’s. Now, she found herself cooking lunch for men on surrounding farms. It wasn’t glamorous, and there certainly wouldn’t be write ups about her or offers to come on Food Network to guest judge on Chopped. Or even compete on Iron Chef. But her work here had felt good. Better than good. She knew that those who bought her food, truly wanted what she made. It was her menu, guided by her childhood favorites. It was almost as if Caleb had made it possible to be her own boss. Forget almost, she had been her own boss, and Caleb’s parents had also helped make it possible. It was their kitchen she used. Their produce. And Dinah would even help her prepare food, saying she loved to learn new recipes. Being in Jessamine was pure happiness. What was wrong with her? Maybe she was being too stubborn. Maybe she was just scared. The last man she’d gotten serious with had turned out to be such a loser. Such a moocher and— Caleb was none of those things. She loved him, and now that she pushed him away, she might not get the chance to let him know. Or she might get the chance, but he wouldn’t care anymore. A man like Caleb didn’t love lightly. He didn’t share his feelings lightly. Neither did she. They were alike in that respect as well. They had so much fun together, even while doing simple things like making ropes and painting toenails. He’d taken her dancing. He’d shared every bit of his soul with her while she shared hers with him. Without a doubt, she knew that if she left Jessamine, she’d be leaving a huge chunk of herself behind. Was she willing to risk that for a job? A job that Caleb had made possible to have here, albeit small, and yes, it was due to her cooking. But still, he’d helped spread the word, had gotten his parents on board. How much more encouragement did she need? What if I’m making the wrong decision? What if blah, blah ... that man loves you and you know it. And I love him. She knew what she had to do. Mind made up, she picked up her phone to text Ione. Sofia: Hey there, I’m sorry, but I’m going to have to say no to Oliver Ione: Wow. I’m shocked. Sofia: You could always take the job for me. Ione: IDK. I like being my own boss. She laughed. Sofia: I found the right place for me in Jessamine. But I’ll come down to visit when I get some time.

Ione: Sweet. Have to go. Need to make a line cook cry. Just as she started to put her phone away, it rang. “I thought you had to make someone cry?” she asked Ione. “Just want to make sure you’re cool with me taking the job?” “It’s the opportunity of a lifetime to work with Oliver. Who in their right mind would turn that down?” Ione snorted. “You did, for one.” “I know.” She grinned. “Thanks for calling me. It was a huge boost to my ego to know that Oliver wants me to come to Atlanta.” “Your decline is my gain,” Ione chirped. “Talk to you later, Sof.” “So you’re just up and leaving him.” Sofia groaned inwardly as she put away her phone. “Apple, so nice to see you.” Apple sat down in the chair opposite hers. “It’s not, and I know it.” “But you’re going to have a chat with me anyway.” “Smart and pretty. Who knew?” Apple made a face. “Anyway, I think you’re making a mistake by leaving Caleb.” “I’m not—” “I know what I heard. I’m an excellent eavesdropper.” Nonplussed, Sofia sat back and said, “Have your say.” “Thank you. Like I was saying, I can’t believe you would leave Caleb for a job. He’s done so much for you and to throw all that back in his face would be ... there are no words for women who do that.” “Bitch.” Apple’s eyes narrowed. “Excuse me?” “You said there are no words for women who do that. I beg to differ.” “Oh. Well. There is that.” She tossed her hair over a shoulder. “Then I should amend my statement by saying only a cold-hearted bitch would leave a man who mortgages a house he owns free and clear to purchase a food truck.” Sofia could barely breathe. “He mortgaged his house for me?” Obviously pleased that she knew something Sofia didn’t, Apple smiled widely. “Everyone is talking about it.” “Seriously?” Sofia arched a brow. “Everyone who is anyone is talking about it.” She guessed that was better, but good grief the woman had a flair for drama. “I know you and I haven’t gotten off to the best start, and I know you want Cal—” “Wanted to be with him, but not anymore.” “Yet you’re here, telling me that he did something so incredibly selfless that I can’t ever possibly repay him for it, so I won’t leave.” “Something like that.” Apple drummed her fingers on the table. “After all he has been through, he deserves love, and since he has found it with you, then I can’t stand idly by and watch you screw it up.” “You still love him, don’t you?” Apple smiled wanly. “What I feel for him doesn’t matter.” She stood. “I’d say I hope to see you around, but we both know I don’t mean it.” “The feeling is mutual.” “If there wasn’t all this history, I think you and I would be very good friends.” The thought of being friends with Apple didn’t really bother her, especially after Caleb revealed his true non-relationship with her. She honestly felt sorry for Apple. “I don’t have that history holding me back, but when you stop living in the past, call me and we’ll do something. You know where I live.”

She didn’t wait for Apple to respond; instead, she paid the bill and dashed out of there. There was a man she couldn’t keep waiting any longer.

Chapter Sixteen Sofia found Caleb where she’d left him, in the barn, talking to Mule. He stood beside the most glorious food truck she’d ever seen. “Nice truck.” He barely spared her a glance. “Mule and I are thinking of going into business but our ‘eat all the chicken’ idea is already taken.” She bit her lip to keep from laughing. “You didn’t have to mortgage your house to do this.” He lifted his head, pinning her with his dark blue eyes. “I know I didn’t. I did it so you could be head chef of your own business.” “I know. Apple told me.” He laughed, but there was no joy in it. “She plan on publishing that in the paper?” “Not exactly,” she said. Pushing away from the stall, he started to walk away. “I don’t have time for another round of arguments. If you’re leaving, then say so. If you’re staying because you feel guilty about the damn truck, then don’t bother. I have a buyer already.” “That would be a crying shame since I’m not very good at sharing counter space.” “Don’t say things you don’t mean, honey.” “I want to stay here with you, Caleb. Food truck or not. I made up my mind before she ever said a word about it. Even texted Ione to turn the offer down. You can check my phone if you want.” That made him stop. “Don’t need to, but I’m listening.” “I want to make a life with you in Jessamine. ” He turned to face her. “Why?” “Because I love you,” she said, throwing her hands in the air. “Why else?” “You can’t take it back.” He strode to her, taking her in his arms. “This isn’t post-orgasm Sofia talking.” She shook her head. “No, it’s not, but it can be... if you take me home with you.” He eyed the truck and shook his head. “Too far away, but my old room isn’t.” Sweeping her off her feet, he ran to the house while she held on for dear life. To her surprise, he took her right to the room she’d chosen when she first moved here. “That’s convenient,” he said before placing her in the middle of the bed. She shrugged a little before sitting up to help him out of his clothes. “The room spoke to me.” “Was it saying ‘Caleb has always wanted to get laid in here’?” he asked as he lifted her up and pulled off her panties. She straddled his lap, tilting her head to one side and pretending to listen. “I don’t think so.” “Try again.” As soon as his cock sprung free of his boxers, he thrust inside of her. She was already so wet for him that it didn’t take long at all to work his way completely inside. “Caleb,” she gasped, grabbing his wide shoulders. “You’re going to marry me.” Thrust. “Yes.” “Have my babies.” Thrust. “Yes. Yes. Yes.” She clung to him, even as she rode him with abandon. Her head fell back. His tongue licked a hot path up her neck. “Never leaving me again.”

“No.” “You stay and talk to me. I’ll listen.” How could he talk right now? “Whatever you want.” “I want you, Sofia. Since the first day I met you.” He reached between them, rubbing her clit in just the right way. “Now come for me, sweetheart.” She might have screamed his name and God’s. Might have clawed his shoulders and back. What she did know was that her orgasm was even better than the ones he’d given her before. A few thrusts later, he joined her. “No condom,” he panted. “No pill.” His face became serious. “I should—” “Do it again?” she teased. “Right after you make an honest woman of me.” He framed her face in his hands. “We’ll get married tomorrow. I know a preacher.” “That’s...” “Unexpected?” She shook her head. “Perfect.” Just like him. *** Two weeks later “We have time. Sit still,” Tia Bianca ordered, and Sofia quit squirming. “I have to finish your eye make-up.” “If I make Caleb wait any longer, I think he’ll kidnap me and have our wedding while we’re on the honeymoon.” He hadn’t been joking when he said he wanted to marry her as soon as possible. He’d bought a ring, proposed to her the proper way so she could share with her family and friends, then drove her into town to get the marriage license. The only reason he hadn’t married her the next day was so she could invite her entire family to the wedding. He was sweet like that. She smiled. “I know that look,” Tia Carmen said. “You are truly in love with him.” “Of course I am.” “And he makes you happy. Truly happy,” Tia Bianca chimed in. “There. Take a look in the mirror.” Sofia stood, moving the mirror propped against the closet door. “Oh wow.” She gently touched her face. “Is that me?” She looked so bride-like in her wedding gown, which was the point, but... The door opened, and one of her soon-to-be sisters-in-law walked in the room, then froze as she saw Sofia. “Oh my goodness. You are a beautiful bride. Caleb won’t be able to stand himself when he sees you. I’m Joy, Adam’s wife. It’s okay if you don’t remember meeting me because there are so many of us and we tend to converge at once. It can be overwhelming.” “A little, but give me time, and I’ll be the one introducing everyone.” Sofia gave the short, plump woman a hug. “I can’t wait to call you sister.” Joy hugged her back. “I can’t either.” She stepped back, her face sweet as she smiled at everyone in the room and spoke to each person before turning her attention back to Sofia. “My husband sent me up here to let you know that the ceremony is about to start, and if he doesn’t get you hitched to Caleb in the next ten minutes, then Caleb’s liable to come get you himself.” “I’d like to see him get past my tias,” Sofia replied with a soft snort. “But I don’t want to wait any longer either. Tell Adam I’m on my way.”

Joy nodded. “I hope you don’t mind, but I wanted to tell you what a Proverbs 31 woman I think you are. Caleb is blessed to have you walking alongside him.” “He’s not the only one who is blessed.” Her tias nodded. “We are all fortunate for this day,” abuela agreed, then she repeated her words in English for Joy’s benefit. The woman smiled so big that dimples appeared in her cheeks. “See you in a bit.” Then she left the room, closing the door behind her. * Sofia held up her skirt as she practically floated outside. All but her grandmother had gone ahead. Caleb’s brother, Austin, winked at her as she passed by. He was marrying Harper, a teacher who was the cousin of his brother’s wife, Lemon. “Hold up. It’s my job to man the door.” He got in front of them, right in the middle of the doors and pushed outward. “You’re going to love this.” The barn doors parted, and she walked inside, gasping at the transformation. Gone were the hay bales and equipment. Gone were the cows and feedbags. In their place were sweet smelling flowers and rose petals scattered on the cement floor. Rows of chairs faced an arch made of vines and fairy lights. More lights were twined around the beams in the ceiling and around each stall’s door. When in the world had his family and hers done this? It must have taken hours, maybe even days. “Is this why we had the rehearsal at Lemon and Tristan’s house?” she asked her grandmother, and the older woman nodded. “My feet ache, but that smile is worth it,” Abuela said. “Your mother is in this place. I feel her. She’s happy for you.” Sofia began to cry, but her abuela gently wiped at her tears. “Thank you so much. I don’t know how my bad luck changed so quickly.” “It wasn’t bad luck that brought you here. It was fate.” With one last kiss on her cheek, she walked away and took her seat in the front row, right beside Dinah, who grabbed her hand. The two women smiled at one another, then looked at her. Sofia didn’t think her heart could get any fuller than it was in this moment ... until Caleb walked in from the side to stand near Adam. In a simple white shirt and dress pants, he took her breath away. His blue eyes met hers, the love in them shining brighter than all the lights combined. David walked to her, holding out his arm as he joined her “If you don’t mind, I’d like to do the honor of walking you down the aisle.” Fresh tears welled in her eyes as she slid her arm inside of his. “Why?” She’d planned on walking to Caleb by herself, and no one had said anything against that at the rehearsal last night. She hadn’t minded at all. “You’ve become like a daughter to Dinah and me. I want to make sure my son knows how we truly feel about you, and that he’ll have to answer to us when he does stupid stuff.” “My Caleb would never do anything stupid.” “Yes, he will.” David laughed. “He’s a man. It’s in our DNA.” The music started. “That’s our cue,” she said. “I’m ready when you are.” “Thank you for coming into my son’s life. You don’t know how much he needed you. We didn’t know how much, until we saw y’all together.” “I don’t know ... I think I needed him just as much.” Caleb gave his dad a pointed look.

David laughed, and so did Sofia. Then they began to walk down the aisle to the man she knew she’d spend the rest of her life with.

Epilogue Three years later Evening was Caleb’s favorite time of day. Sofia and the kids would already be in the kitchen, his parents at the table, too. At Sofia’s insistence, after the honeymoon, they moved into the farmhouse. Before he would have minded, but now that he was older, he understood things a younger man couldn’t. Like how he could still have his independence surrounded by family. He didn’t have to choose between the two. “Hey beautiful,” he said, taking off his work boots at the door. His shoulders were sore from wrestling with a cow more stubborn than Mule had ever been. “Hi yourself.” To his surprise, there was no one in the kitchen but Sofia. “Where is everyone?” “David and Dinah took the kids to Brody and Sydney’s house to play with their primos.” “That means it’s just us.” “Si.” He loved they way she sprinkled Spanish while talking to him. He’d never told her though. “Don’t bother cooking for us tonight.” “Why is that?” He encircled her waist with his arms. “Because I’m going to take my pretty wife out dancing, then when we’re hot and sweaty, I figured we could go skinny dipping.” “You still want to skinny dip with me after two babies?” She tipped up her chin, and he couldn’t help but kiss her. “Two babies. Four babies. Ten grandkids. I’ll always want to skinny dip with you.” “You always know what I need to hear,” she said softly. “Only saying what I mean. And Mrs. Lawson, I love you.”

Thank you for reading LOVE SO UNEXPECTED. If you enjoyed Sofia and Caleb’s story, please consider leaving a review to let others know. If you’d like to be notified of my newest releases, sales, cover reveals, and giveaways, please sign up for my newsletter and get a free book, too! Keep going to read the first TWO CHAPTERS of how it all began in LOVE SO HOT (Book #1), where Fire Captain Brody Lawson is just as in love with his best friend Sydney McKnight as she is with him. Only neither want to risk their friendship by admitting it. Then Sydney works up the nerve to ask Brody to teach her how to properly seduce a man and everything starts to change...

Love So Hot The Lawsons Book 1 Chapter One

Brody Lawson couldn’t remember a time when he didn’t want to be a firefighter. He wanted to rescue people from skyscrapers, farms animals from burning barns, and use the Jaws of Life to pry open cars. By the time he was fifteen, and allowed to see uncut version of Backdraft, he knew every line of the movie by heart. He made it his mission to be everyone’s friend, everyone’s champion, and the guy that everyone could always count on to do the right thing. His parents had encouraged that line of thinking, cheering him on when he gave up a baseball scholarship to go to Fire Fighter Academy. Nothing had given him more pleasure than to see his entire family—parents, brothers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins—at his swearing-in ceremony. But, no one had informed him that his duty as a fireman would to be to climb up a knobby pine tree that had seen better days. The damned thing swayed so badly that he was sure it would break in half at any moment. “Come on, sweetheart, just a little closer,” he crooned to the four-year-old, who was currently stuck in said tree. “Just slide down to the next branch.” Fat tears rolled down her rosy cheeks. “I can’t,” she wailed. “Yes, you can,” he said. She had to move closer. The tree limbs at the top were too slender to hold his weight and the truck with the ladder that could reach this high was being used for training purposes. A plaintive cry came from beside him. He adjusted his stance on the branch below him, scraping his forearms in the process and sucking in air. Pine bark hurt like a son of a gun. “Kitty,” Jena Lynn squealed, nearly tumbling from the branch. Her little fingers dug into the bark. “My kitty!” So that was why she’d climbed up this far. He should have known. “C’mon down, Jena,” her mother shouted from below. Brody glanced at the woman, who had concern etched on her face. He knew her mother would have been up here herself, but she’d broken her arm last week, sliding into home while playing on the county’s softball league. Since Brody was co-captain, he felt responsible for her broken arm and it was why he’d come himself, instead of sending one of the newbies to help. “I want my daddy,” Jena Lynn said, her little nose scrunching up. “I want my kitty and my daddy.” Sympathy flooded Brody. Jena Lynn’s father wouldn’t be coming home for at least two more months. He was serving in Afghanistan for the third time. “I know you do, baby girl, but right now, your momma needs you to come down because—” He paused. There was no way he could tell the little girl that her mother was scared. That would only cause more panic for both of them. “It’s time to eat lunch,” he hastily improvised. “I’m not hungry.” “Your kitty is.” The kitty chose that moment to sink its claws into his bicep. He gritted his teeth a little. “No, she’s not.” Brody winced. “I’m hungry.” “Then go eat.”

He swallowed a laugh. Jena Lynn had definitely inherited her dad’s stubborn ways, but she had also inherited her mother’s sense of empathy. “Can I tell you a secret?” he asked the little girl. She eyed him. “Mommy says adults shouldn’t ask kids to keep a secret. It’s not safe.” He nodded. “Your mom is smart. But, this secret you can share with her and your daddy—just don’t tell my brothers. Okay?” That was exactly the thing to say to her because she nodded and smiled. “Okay. I’m telling Mommy and Daddy, but not your brothers. Not even at circle time when Mr. Tristan asks us to share something cool about our day.” “Thanks,” he said wryly. His brother, a former officer in the Marines, had recently become the head librarian for the town. Tristan had gone from handling guns and serving in a war to shelving books and heading up Mom’s Morning Out. “I’m listening,” she sang out, no longer crying. “I need you to come a little closer to me, so I can whisper it to you.” Jena Lynn climbed down exactly one branch. She was still higher than he could safely reach, but it was a start. “It’s kind of embarrassing,” he said in a loud whisper. “Like peeing in your bed at night?” she asked. “Yeah, like that.” Jena Lyn’s eyes got wide. “You still pee in your bed?” she asked in a voice loud enough to be heard three counties over. Her mother chortled below them. “No,” he almost shouted, and then gentled his voice. “I’m afraid of heights.” “Then why did you climb up my tree?” she asked, looking at him like he was the dumbest thing on the planet. So much for empathy, he thought. “Because you and your kitty needed help. It’s my job to rescue people and animals,” he said solemnly. “But, now I need your help getting down.” “Oh.” She seemed to consider his words and then extended one leg. “I’ll save you.” He bit back his grin. “Thank you.” The kitten scampered off his arm and up the tree, distracting Jena Lynn. “My kitty,” she screeched, lunging for it. Ah, hell. The branch cracked under her weight, and she began to fall. Her mother screamed. Brody grabbed for her, somehow catching the little girl under her arm. “Got you, baby girl.” He pulled her up to him. She wrapped her chubby, little legs and arms around him, her tiny body racked with tears and shudders. “It’s okay. I’m here. Now, I’m going to climb down and take you to your momma.” “Oh thank God,” her mother cried as he gingerly made his way down the tall pine tree. She rushed to him as soon as his feet hit the ground, taking her daughter while scolding and loving on her. “I’m sorry,” Jena Lyn kept saying over and over. He rubbed her back to help calm her down and glanced up the tree. The cause of all their problems jumped from branch to branch until it landed neatly on the ground. The cat stalked away, tail twitching in the air. “No appreciation at all,” he grunted. Turning to Jena Lyn’s mother, he asked, “Is there anything else I can do?” She shook her head. “Thank you, but no. You’ve already done enough. Is there anything we can do for you?”

“Get Jena Lynn a dog?” he suggested. “They’re less ornery.” The woman’s tears turned to laughter. “We didn’t get her the cat. It’s a stray.” This time, Brody shook his head in disbelief. “Make sure she tells her daddy what happened. I think Max would love to hear the story.” “I know he would.” Jena Lynn lifted her head from her mother’s shoulder to peek at him. He ruffled her hair and winked. “Keep climbing trees, baby girl. Just pick ones with better branches next time.” She nodded. The two of them walked inside, waving at Brody before the door shut behind them. Inspecting his arm, he walked back to his truck. The kitten’s claws had run deep and the pine bark had scratched most of his skin off. But, it wasn’t anything that couldn’t be fixed up. Although, the EMT might recommend he get tested for rabies. He groaned. Those shots hurt like a son of a gun. The last time he had to get them, he was sore for a week. “Thanks for the help, Rookie,” he said. Kyle Davidson sat on the passenger side with a smirk on his face and a cell phone in his hand. “You had everything handled. Besides, I figured if you needed my help, you would have ordered me over there.” That was true. Brody had told Kyle to stay in the truck and wait, because it wouldn’t take long to get her. But, that had been almost an hour ago. Sweat trickled down his back, making it itch. His hands were sticky from the sap, too. He would have to take a shower before he could eat lunch. Kyle waited until Brody slid inside and had clicked his seatbelt in place before replaying the video. “You pee in your bed?” could be clearly heard. Kyle’s smirk got bigger. “I’m trying to decide if this should go on the town’s Facebook page or ours. Maybe both.” “YouTube doesn’t have enough subscribers for you?” Brody deadpanned. “It’s already there, Captain.” Brody put the truck in drive and headed out to the highway. “Maybe it’s time to rethink hiring selfstarters.” Kyle barked out a laugh. “You would have done the same to me.” The rookie had a point. Brody loved a good joke as much as the next guy. “Did you at least get the part where I caught her?” “Yeah. I like having a job.” “Smart man.” “Big plans tonight?” Kyle asked. “Spend some time with Cherry.” “Nice.” Kyle got quiet. Too quiet for Brody’s liking. The guy never shut up long enough to breathe. “Something on your mind?” “You won’t like it.” “Try me.” “It’s Sydney McKnight.” Yeah, Kyle was right—he wouldn’t like that at all. “What about her?” he asked, trying to keep his tone conversational. No need to kill the kid before his probationary period was up. “I was thinking of asking her out—maybe to the Fireman’s Auction, but, uh... since she’s your best bud and all, I wanted to check with you first.” “Like I’m her dad?” “Yeah. Exactly,” Kyle said, clearly happy. “I mean, she’s a little older than me, but the body is—” “Don’t finish that thought. Keep it safely tucked away in your brain,” Brody practically growled.

Kyle cleared his throat. “She’s a great-looking woman and has a personality to match.” “She’s seeing someone,” Brody snapped. He couldn’t help it. While Kyle might be a good guy, he was still some kid looking to get laid. As Sydney’s best friend, it was Brody’s job to keep guys like that away from her. She deserved better, and he knew for a fact she wanted more than that. “Who?” Kyle asked. “I checked her Facebook page, and it says she’s single.” Son of a gun. Reason number five hundred not to like social media. Nothing was private. “That’s because she hasn’t updated her Facebook page in six months. This is fairly new.” So new that Sydney didn’t even know about it. “Well, damn. Guess I’ll ask Apple McCoy, then.” “Yeah, ask her. She’s... available.” Or at least he thought Cherry’s sister was. Either way, Kyle could set his sights on another woman. “Dude. We could double date, and then later, once Sydney discovers how awesome I am, I’ll gently let Apple down. Then we can hang out and you can give your blessing. Like the Pope.” He made an ah, ah, ah sound, like he was singing in a church choir. First, Kyle compared him to being Sydney’s dad and now he morphed into a celibate religious figure? This conversation was quickly going downhill. “We could, but we won’t,” Brody said. Twenty, the kid was barely twenty, he reminded himself. Too young to know better. Too young to recognize that he needed to shut up about Sydney. “And I’m pretty sure comparing me to the Pope is blasphemous.” Brody wasn’t Catholic, but even he knew you didn’t say stuff like that. “Nah, this Pope is cool. He’s Super Pope.” Brody rolled his eyes. “If you say so.” “Maybe once my probationary period is over and I’ve earned it?” Kyle asked hopefully. Feeling like a first-class jerk for lying, Brody forced himself to nod. “Yeah. You have to earn it first.” “Sweet.” Kyle picked up the scanner and called into dispatch to let them know they were headed back. “You’re positive about Sydney?” he asked. “I really like her. She’s so easy to talk to, and it feels right being around her.” Brody’s jaw clenched. The kid wasn’t giving up—a trait that had been one of the main reasons Brody had hired him. “Sydney has that effect on everyone.” Including him. “There isn’t a man alive who can’t see himself with her.” “Except for you,” Kyle said. “Best friend zone and all that.” “Yeah.” He gave Kyle a sidelong glance, wondering if he was trying to needle him or honestly felt that way. But, Kyle’s face gave nothing away, mostly because he was on his phone. “Except for me.” “Good thing you’re dating Cherry. Because, dude, I’d seriously violate that best-friend zone and ask her out if I were you.” Brody’s fingers tightened around the steering wheel, but he had to admit Kyle had a point. He was dating Cherry, if only casually. It worked for them. No real commitment, yet she was someone he could always count on. Just like he was for her. People assumed they were serious, which was fine with him. Even if it really wasn’t. Even if he couldn’t see himself settling down with Cherry, but rather another woman with big blue eyes and shoulder-length blonde hair... and a laugh that made his gut clench. But, because he didn’t want to hurt Cherry’s reputation—the world being what it was—or risk hurting the other woman he wanted, but could never have, he kept his mouth shut and did what was expected of him. Because that’s what heroes did.

Chapter Two Sydney McKnight was tired of being the woman every man in the town of Jessamine wanted...To be friends with, that was. But, that was the problem with living in a small town. Once you were labeled, you were stuck. And boy, had she ever been labeled. The nice girl. The one you can count on. Even in high school, she’d been voted most dependable and friendliest. Not biggest flirt, best looking, or most likely to do something wild and crazy. Nope, not her. That honor belonged to her best friend and one of the McCoy girls. Though, it could be worse, like Helen Jean Humphries, who would forever have the nickname Humpty, merely because of her last name. Helen Jean wasn’t humped anywhere. In fact, she had a great figure and personality, but that hadn’t stopped the nickname from sticking. Maybe that was why Helen Jean went away to college and never came back. Unfortunately, Sydney couldn’t do that. She had too many responsibilities to even consider leaving Jessamine. So, for her, it had been an immediate segue to bank training because working at a financial institution was a solid job. It was expected. Before Sydney’s mother had retired, she had worked at Jessamine Savings & Loan. And, before that, her mother’s mother had worked there as secretary to the bank manager. So, in a way, it was Sydney’s legacy to work at JS&L, which meant she was stuck, and that was all there was to it. Things could be worse, she supposed. She could be stuck in a small town that wasn’t built right on the Pamlico Sound. Or one that didn’t have an annual seafood festival and a boat parade on the fourth of July. Or a biannual pirates’ weekend when Blackbeard impersonators flooded the town by ship, motorcycle, and Greyhound buses. Trees certainly weren’t this showy with perfect blossoms and lime green leaves. Sidewalks couldn’t be this clean or have benches perfect for catching up with an old friend or two. Residents were never this chatty, and when someone was in need, no town could bend over backwards further than hers to help them out. All in all, Jessamine was a pretty good place to call home. She grinned. Even if she was romanticizing it a bit. Glancing right and then left, she crossed Main Street and headed back to work. Her hour lunch wasn’t even halfway up, but one of her coworkers needed to leave early to get her nails done. Hot date and all that. Sydney sighed. If only she could have a hot date, instead of one that ended with the inevitable brotherly kiss or—she internally winced—a fist bump. Gosh, that had been the most embarrassing date ever. She had thought that Preston Lawson had really been into her. After all, he’d held her hand in the parking lot while she teetered on stilettos she had no business wearing in the first place, touched the small of her back while they walked through a romantic restaurant crowded with tables and chairs, and then took her to his favorite sports bar two towns over to go dancing. Or so she thought. Instead, he’d talked her into playing darts with another couple. Their team had won, of course, and Preston had given her a congratulatory fist bump before he’d walked away with the losing team. And, he had kept right on walking with the two women who had made up the other team, right out the entrance. She had ended up calling a local cab service, something that wasn’t all that common in eastern North Carolina, and had gone home in tears. Her stomach twisted a little at the memory. “So humiliating,” she whispered. “Sydney, wait up,” a familiar voice shouted, and she paused, scanning the street and settling on a tall drink of water heading her way.

Brody Lawson, still in his fireman’s bunker gear, jogged to her, a smile on his sexy face. His blue eyes twinkled and his dark hair had that mussed quality about it that bespoke of his hands constantly running through it. Her heart pounded in her ears, in her chest, and well, everywhere. Every time she was in spitting distance of Brody, her body was one big, giant heartbeat. Not that it did any good. “Hey buddy,” he said. And that greeting was exactly why. Her pounding heart stuttered and dropped to her toes. Sure, they were best friends, but did he have to remind her of it all the dang time? “Hey you,” she said, her smile automatically getting so big that her cheeks started to hurt. “Where’s the fire?” “It’s out,” he laughed, coming to a stop mere inches from her. “Wilson Tractor Supply’s warehouse is a little worse for wear. I think we got it in time, and Barry had already sent third-shift home before the worst of it.” More than a few women walked by them, heads turning like barn owls to ogle Brody. Not that she could blame them. Heck, she’d ogle the man every day if she had the chance. Like she was doing right now. Sydney didn’t miss the smear of soot along his sharp cheekbone. “Missed a spot.” She pointed in the general direction of his face, not wanting to make it too obvious she’d been staring. “Always looking out for me, Syd. What would I do without you?” Of course, he wiped the opposite side of his face. “Did I get it?” “No.” He turned his head slightly, his sexy gaze on her, pleading. “Get it for me?” Touch him? Oh, sweet baby Jesus. Hand shaking slightly with excitement, she smoothed her fingers over his skin, but the soot wouldn’t come off. “I think you’re going to have to wash your face again,” she said softly. Turning back to her, he grinned and she didn’t move her hand. She didn’t move an inch. They stood like that for a moment, the tips of her fingers on his rough cheek. “No time to shave this morning?” Brody shook his head a little. “The alert on my phone woke me up out of a dead sleep. I got dressed in the dark. Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it later. Unless, you’re opposed to being seen with me in public like this?” Opposed to it? She wouldn’t mind being with him in private, where no one would see, and she could explore his body. And... dear Lord. She had to stop this madness. Brody Lawson would never think of her like that, and she had no clue what she would do with him if he did. Finally, she let her hand fall because to keep touching him was madness and a little strange. Her fingers tingled from where she’d touched him, and that tingling feeling was starting to spread to other places. “I can only have one reason for not wanting to be seen with you in public?” she teased, trying to get back into best-friend mode. “I mean—the smell alone...” A helpless snort left her before she could stop it. He gave her a look, one that made her knees weak and her heart slam against her chest. So not helping. “Brody Lawson,” a woman cooed from behind Sydney before he could speak. “It’s so good to see that the four-alarm fire that had you running from my bed this morning didn’t burn you up.” “Cherry,” he murmured, his cheeks heating. “I called you as soon as I was done.” Sydney watched as he stepped back a couple of feet. Her heart sank in disappointment. Of course, his heated gaze had been directed at Cherry McCoy, not at her. His red face, embarrassed gaze, and hurried retreat was more than enough evidence of the fact.

Whirling around, she pasted a smile on her face and greeted Cherry. The strawberry blonde gave her a genuine smile back. “Sydney. Don’t you look just darling in that dress.” She flicked her brown-eyed gaze to Brody. “Doesn’t she, sugar?” Despite knowing what was good for her, hope slowly rose inside of Sydney. Maybe Brody would really take a look at her and— “Well...” he began, visibly swallowing. Sydney forced her gaze to Cherry. “It’s okay. Brody and I don’t discuss my fashion choices.” Cherry rolled her eyes. “You’re allowed to compliment the woman, best friend or not.” She looped her arm through Sydney’s and tossed her hair in a way only a McCoy girl could. Every single one of them was liked by everyone in town, just like Sydney—only, unlike Sydney, men loved the McCoy girls. Worse, the McCoy girls were nice, genuinely nice, to everyone. They didn’t have a mean bone in their perfect bodies. It was unfair, really. “Tell her how pretty she looks.” Brody’s gaze turned panicked, and he started to sputter. “Um. Well, I—” Sydney wanted to crawl in a hole and die. “I have to go. My lunch break is already up, and Mabel Leigh has to leave early.” “Brody.” Cherry raised her eyebrows purposefully, and Sydney glanced at Brody. “You’re making her feel bad.” “Actually, you’re the one—” He shook his head. “You look very pretty, Sydney.” “Thank you,” she whispered. “I really have to go. If I’m not back, uh...” She faltered, unable to think of a reasonable explanation as to what anyone would do to her for not taking her entire lunch break. Inspiration struck. “People won’t get their money. It’s Friday. People need their money.” Letting go of Sydney, Cherry patted Brody on the shoulder. “See that didn’t hurt a bit.” Brody grunted, narrowing his gaze on Cherry. “Maybe it didn’t hurt you.” Stunned and more than a little hurt by his answer, Sydney took the opportunity to escape. “See y’all later,” she announced with a cheery wave. “Don’t forget about tomorrow’s softball game,” Brody called out. “Wouldn’t miss it.” She smiled once more, and then hurried away. Ugh. She hated living in the friend zone, especially in the we-can’t-win-without-you friend zone. It made her feel wanted when she had no business thinking that way. Men talked about it all the time, but women... they weren’t allowed or even assumed to be in the same category. Being friends with a hot guy was bad enough, but being in love with your best friend was worse.

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More Books By Marquita Valentine The Lawson Brothers Love So Hot Love So True Love so Irresistible Love So Tempting Love So Perfect Love So Unexpected Love So Right (August 2016) The Brides of Holland Springs Series The Billionaire Bride The Temporary Bride The Forgotten Bride The Christmas Bride (May 2016) The Scottish Bride (May 2016) Seducing the Billionaire Series Seducing the Billionaire’s Wife Seducing the Billionaire’s Secretary Seducing the Billionaire’s Brother (coming Winter 2016) Take the Fall Series Take the Fall When We Fall After We Fall Hard to Fall (July 2016) The Target Series Prime Target Hard Target Last Target- Red Sole Clues Anthology Moving Target (May 2016) Holland Springs Series Drive Me Crazy Driving To You Twice Tempted Third Time’s a Charm His Christmas Wish Just Desserts Not Over You Be Mine

About the Author

Marquita Valentine is the New York Times and USA Today Bestselling Author of the sexy contemporary romance and hot romantic suspense. Since first taking the plunge in July of 2012 to self publish, Marquita Valentine has appeared on the Top 100 Bestselling Ebooks Lists on iBooks, Amazon Kindle, and Barnes&Noble multiple times. She’s been called “one of the best new voices in romance” (Guilty Pleasures Book Reviews) and her books have been accused of being “a sexy, fun, and slightly addicting contemporary read” (The Book Queen). When she’s not writing sexy heroes who adore their sassy heroines, she enjoys shopping, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. Married to her high school sweetheart, Marquita lives in a seriously small town in the south with her husband, two kids, and a dog. www.marquitavalentine.com www.facebook.com/AuthorMarquitaValentine Newsletter