"We'll see about that restaurant in the morning," he told her. "And if you like it, I'll help you make the nec essary arrangements for buying it and making your move." He smiled at her with dark eyes full of love. "Don't worry, Char," he said, rumpling her hair. "You're not alone."
She managed a trembling smile and whispered, "I love you, Mason." It was so easy to say to him. Why was it so hard to say to Ross?
Ross was always moving from one place to another and it was almost three weeks before he realized she had stopped answering his emails. He tried to call her right away but her phone was disconnected and she didn't answer her cell.
"What is going on?" he demanded of his sister Mar lena on an anxious call. "Find out where she is. Go to her restaurant."
Marlena did as she was ordered, calling Ross back the following day.
"They're not talking at the restaurant. The apartment seems to be empty. I just don't know where she's gone."
Ross made arrangements to return immediately but just before his flight left, there was a major disaster on the site. A crane fell apart, killing two workers, and Ross was forced to stay and help conduct an accident investigation.
It was well into December before he made his way back to the States. Henry met him at the airport. They had a quick discussion about the Australian deal and then Henry said, "Guess what. I've got good news. La Mer restaurant has finally agreed to join the Dos Pueblos Pier consortium."
Ross turned to him, stunned. "What did you say?"
"It's true. The place is under new ownership and they're a much more reasonable bunch."
"New ownership." Ross swore viciously. "I don't want La Mer in our consortium," he snapped to his thoroughly baffled partner. "Get me home. I've got calls to make."
Henry backed away. "But we've got that meeting with the board."
"Now," Ross growled, furious. He strode toward the car like a man with a mission, and Henry walked quickly behind.