“But you’re guests,” I protest. “You should be enjoying yourselves!”
“We are,” she chuckles, tugging on a pair of gardening gloves. “Besides, you don’t know the difference between an azalea and an aspidistra.”
I pause weeding, glancing over to where Ash is revving up an ancient mower I found in the old shed. He works with crisp, precise movements; his body taut and capable. All afternoon, I’ve been painfully aware of his presence: chatting with the other guys, or teasing his little sister. He’s seemed relaxed, and perfectly at ease, but he still looks away fast whenever our eyes meet.
“Quite the view,” Mrs. Peterson remarks.
“Hmm?” I pretend I don’t know exactly what she’s talking about, and turn back to work. By the end of the day, I’ve never been so tired—or felt so grateful and blessed. “You guys…” I say, looking around at the spotless, lush yard. The house looks like something straight from a magazine, especially in the hazy rose light of dusk. “I can’t believe everyone helped out like this! I really don’t know what to say.”
“Say you’ll buy the first round at Jimmy’s.” Juliet hugs me with a grin.
“Done! Meet you there?” I ask. “I need to jump in the shower.”
And have a moment to collect myself.
The others head out, so I quickly clean up and pull on a pretty summer dress. I even pull back my hair and add a touch of lipgloss. Not because I want Ash to notice, I tell myself. But because it’s summer. And I’m feeling good, and…
Liar.
I pop my head into the lounge to check on the Petersons, reading happily in front of the fireplace with their tea. “Can I get you guys anything?”
“We’re all set,” Harold beams. “These scones are just perfection.”
“Don’t you look nice,” Pam adds. “Hot date?”
I blush. “Just a casual drink with everyone.” I quickly head out before they can quiz me anymore, but by the time I reach the bar, I’m surprised to find there are butterflies in my stomach.
Ash says he doesn’t want anything to happen, but still, I can’t get him out of my mind.
The chemistry between us was real. Is real. So why is he fighting this so hard?
The bar is still empty when I arrive, and a clutter of friendly laughter and conversation greets me from the back alcove, where Ryland and Juliet are facing off in a pool game while the others watch.
I pause a moment, happy. I’ve been in Beachwood Bay only a few days, but already it feels like I’m one of the gang. They’ve all been so welcoming, I can’t get over it.
Tegan sees me, and waves me over. “What have I missed?” I ask, joining them.
“Just a whole lot of trash-talk.” She grins. “Juliet is kicking his ass.”
“Never underestimate a woman,” Juliet crows, lining up a shot and sinking it perfectly.
“Maybe I’m letting you win,” Ryland retorts with an easy smile.
“Sure, let me win that ten bucks, if it makes you feel better.” Juliet sashays to make her next shot.
“Beer?” A voice at my elbow makes me jump. It’s Ash, standing way too close, offering me a cold drink.
“I don’t know, do you think it’s safe?” I answer, my heart beating faster.
He smiles, and I swear I could forget my own name. “Just as long as you don’t go climbing any tall ladders.”
I take the bottle, and gulp a long, cold sip. I need to cool down, and fast.
“Thanks again for helping out,” I say, trying to sound casual. “I really appreciate it.”
“Sure, it’s no problem.” Ash takes a sip of his own beer and leans against the wall beside me, watching the game. “You know, I’m surprised there aren’t more hotels or motels in town. It’s a great family destination.”
“Nana always said it was the best-kept secret on the coast.” I smile. “She spent most of her life here. Dad was always trying to get her to move to the city, but she wouldn’t think of it.”
“I guess there’s something about this town.” Ash looks around. “My family seem to have adopted it as their second home. First Dex, then Tegan…”
“Just wait, you’ll be next,” I grin.
He chuckles. “I don’t know about that. My offices would probably fall into anarchy if I left them to their own devices.”
“I can just imagine them now,” I tease him. “Taking lunch breaks away from their desks. Leaving the office at 6:00 p.m. Not working Sundays.”
“Madness,” he agrees, his eyes flashing with mirth.
Our eyes lock, and those butterflies return; a swooping beat of anticipation. That delicious connection, heat and bright glitter in my veins.
“Look at you two, getting friendly.” Tegan appears beside us, looking pleased. “I figured you’d hit it off. Ash, you know Noelle is a lawyer, right?”
“Yes, I knew that.” Ash looks at her indulgently.
“Was, really,” I correct them. “I’m only licensed in the state of New York, so I guess all my skills are useless here.”
“Still, you must be really smart to get through law school,” Tegan continues. She’s got a determined glint in her eye. “And ambitious too.”
“Um, sure.” I’m not sure where she’s going with this.