Chapter Eight
“The hostess said you wanted to see me?” Alec stood in the door to her office looking formidable in his freshly pressed chef’s coat. Shoulders back, spine arched, tautly strung like a crossbow. Faint circles beneath his eyes revealed the eighteen-hour workdays he’d been clocking all week in a feverish quest to make the soft opening perfect. “Doors open in less than an hour, so I don’t have much time.”
Colby had battled the butterflies of excited anticipation all afternoon. The renewed flutter in her stomach, however, had nothing to do with the soft opening and everything to do with the man in front of her. The bewildering man who’d reawakened feelings she’d rather lie dormant.
Earlier this week she’d said there was no such thing as a perfect man, and she still believed it. But Alec had worked tirelessly to help make her dream a reality, and that actually made him pretty close to perfect.
“Our hostess is named Becca, and I only need a minute of your time.” She opened her desk drawer and withdrew the gift-wrapped package she hoped he’d appreciate.
Alec’s chin jerked back. “What’s that?”
Colby circled her desk and handed him the token gift. “Something to mark the occasion.”
Her mouth watered when she caught a slight whiff of shallots and thyme. Edible Alec. If only he weren’t so volatile and she so brittle. If he weren’t her employee. Or the old friend whose family still blamed her for their son’s death. In no universe did this risky attraction make sense. Yet it had blossomed steadily despite every attempt to weed it out.
“Thank you.” Alec’s fingertips turned white where they gripped the box. After staring at the gift as if it were an alien, he cleared his throat and teased, “This box looks too big to be a phone charger. Should I open it now?”
“Sure.” She smiled, forcing aside her wistful musings.
Alec unwrapped the package with the same careful attention he gave the most intricate dish. His eyes widened when he saw the silver-framed photograph Gentry had taken of them at Hunter’s the other week.
“I thought it might make your apartment feel more homey.” As soon as the words left her mouth, she felt shy and presumptuous—as if she somehow represented home.
Alec’s straight brows pinched together while he fingered the image. “I didn’t get you anything.”
“I didn’t expect it, Alec. This idea just came to me when Gentry sent me all the photos.” Colby shrugged.
“I love it.” The corners of his eyes crinkled above his gentle grin. Then he surprised her by reaching for her. Colby’s heart turned over, unsure of whether or not she wanted him to kiss her. It then sank when he pressed his lips to her forehead instead of her mouth. He lingered there a moment—a tender point of contact she savored—before backing up. “I’m sorry I’m not as thoughtful as you.”
Sensing the need for a joke, she teased him, saying, “I set a high bar, so don’t beat yourself up.”
He chuckled. “Is it okay if I leave this in here until the end of the night?”
“Of course. Speaking of the night, how do you feel?”
“Eager.” He lifted his chin, but the harsh lines of his face only proved him to be tense.
“Me, too, but you seem anxious.”
“Determined.” Any momentary softness he’d revealed had fled as he turned his thoughts back to business. “You need to pay attention to what people are eating, what they’re pushing aside. Listen to what they say to each other, not what they say to you.”
“Got it.”
“I know your family and friends will be a distraction, but stay attuned to the rhythm of the room. Make sure the waitstaff is attentive to every detail. Otherwise, we’ll be going into the grand opening with weak information.”
“Yes, sergeant.”
“It’s important, Colby.” He pinched the bridge of his nose. “This requires perfection from everyone, including you. It may only be a dress rehearsal, but it’s still our first impression. Everyone who comes tonight will leave here and talk to their friends.”
“I understand, but everyone coming tonight wants us to succeed. They’ll be forgiving of little errors.” Colby wished his emphasis on awards wouldn’t eclipse his perspective.
“That doesn’t mean we can slack off.” The force of his voice caused her to step back. He must’ve noticed her reaction, because he attempted a joke. “This is where you could say something encouraging like ‘Everything you make is perfect, Alec, so I don’t expect any complaints.’”
“And inflate your oversize ego?” She poked his shoulder.
He captured her hand and squeezed gently before letting go. “I’d better get back to the kitchen.”
“Yes, do that.” She shooed him off before his nervous energy sapped her stamina.
He set the photo on her desk, momentarily lapsing back to being her friend instead of her chef. “I’ll treasure this.”
His expression then grew fiercely determined before he left her office. Silently, she sent up a prayer for the kitchen staff. Sitting against the edge of her desk, she then lifted the frame. She’d ended up with dozens of pictures of Alec throughout the years, in some combination with Mark, Joe, or Hunter.
She and Alec hadn’t spent time alone since high school, although she’d been in his company with Hunter on occasion since he’d returned from France.
Now she wondered about him. What made him such a perfectionist? What did he want, aside from professional recognition? Mundane questions rattled around her head, too. What did he read? Did he have a favorite movie? Aside from Colette, had he ever been in love?
Not that answers to her questions would reveal more about him than his actions did.
Mark’s emotions had come in tidal waves. Easy to spot, larger than life, chaotically crashing around him. Alec’s were more like a geyser, hidden away with his secret thoughts beneath a deceptive surface until the boiling point caused them to surge upward. Different from Mark, yet equally disquieting. Enough so that she should resist temptation and ignore the whisper in her heart.
Setting the photo down, she straightened her skirt and went to the reception desk to speak with Becca about the seating chart.
Gentry breezed through the door with a man Colby assumed was Jake, the infamous “hot dog guy.” An emerald-green off-the-shoulder minidress hugged Gentry’s curves. Her spiky rhinestone shoes made her an even height with her date, whose faded blue jeans sagged on his hips. His collarless black shirt did little to upgrade his attire. He wore a leather-and-silver chain bracelet on one arm, a silver ring on the opposite hand, and a thick, small hoop earring in one ear.
Colby couldn’t tell whether he’d forgotten to shower, or if this particular disheveled look was intentional. He definitely could use a shave. The black stubble was too long to be considered sexy, yet far too sparse to be a proper beard. Beneath it all, Colby acknowledged the appeal of his strong, sharp features and coal-black eyes.
“I sacrificed making a grand entrance to come early and help.” Gentry smiled and kissed Colby’s cheek. “This is Jake.”
Colby shook Jake’s hand. “Nice to meet you, Jake. Welcome to A CertainTea.”
“Thanks.” No “you, too” or other remark. His blank expression offered no hint of personality. Of course, an empty look probably came in handy at times. Maybe he’d give her a lesson. She’d about given up on the idea he’d say more when he added, “Tight digs.”
When Gentry shot her a cockeyed look, it clicked. Jake’s “dude ’tude” and appearance would piss off their dad.
“We’re serving drinks in the bar until everyone has arrived,” Colby said.
“Cool.” Jake grabbed Gentry’s hand to go, but she jerked free.
“Go ahead, I’ll catch up.”
He ambled over to the bar and ordered himself a beer.
“What do you think?” Gentry asked in a way that told Colby she expected pushback.
Only someone so young and pampered would waste time on games. Games Colby had no interest in playing. Her gaze slid over to Jake, whose raven locks glinted underneath the lights at the bar. Poor guy had no idea her sister might be using him to send a message to her family. Then again, as Hunter had pointed out the other week, Jake was probably using Gentry, too. “I’d kill for his hair.”
Gentry giggled. “It is pretty awesome.”
Colby couldn’t remember ever acting as young as her sister. “Go be with your date. You’re off the clock tonight.”
“Have you checked our Facebook and Instagram pages?” Gentry stalled. “They’re getting nice engagement. I’ll post pictures tonight, too. How are reservations for the opening shaping up?”
“They’re coming in.” Colby smiled because Gentry had become invested in this job, after all. She’d have to give her sister a little more responsibility to keep her motivated. “You’re doing a great job.”
“Don’t sound so shocked.” Gentry crossed her arms. “When the newspaper interview comes out on Sunday, you should get lots of interest.”
Colby recoiled from the memory of Melissa’s shifty eyes. “That reporter was extremely insensitive about Joe and Mark. Honestly, I don’t think any of that should’ve been part of the discussion.”
“Sorry, but giving a personal angle helped pique her interest in doing a story. Voyeurism sells. Look at the Kardashians.” Gentry patted Colby’s shoulder. “It worked. Now we’re getting free publicity in a major paper.”
“At a personal cost to Alec and me. I’m not interested in being like a Kardashian.” Colby practically shivered at the comparison. “Next time, let’s not do that.”
“Okay.” Gentry shrugged, dismissive of the wounds she’d probed.
Colby realized her pampered sister had no clue about that kind of pain.
“Guess I’ll go hang with Jake.”
Colby did a last-minute sweep of the dining room, spoke with the waitstaff captain, tended to the floral arrangements and, when no one was looking, shook her hands out to dispel her nerves.
“There’s my baby!” Her mom’s voice rang out from the hostess station, where she stood proudly wearing the bias-cut black silk dress Colby had bought her for the occasion. Chunky turquoise jewelry added a bit of flair to the ensemble and set off her eyes.
Beside her stood a barrel-chested blond man who bore no resemblance to how Colby had imagined Richard. His cherubic face looked younger than her mom’s. Like Jake, he sported an earring, but his shirt had a collar, and he wore a linen blazer.
“Mom, thanks for coming.” Colby kissed her hello.
“I wouldn’t miss it.” She beamed. “Dear, this is Richard.”
His warm, topaz eyes sparkled. Quite dashing for a man of his age. Perhaps her mom meant to prove something to Colby’s dad and Jenna by bringing him. Colby then chastised herself for suspecting everyone had hidden agendas. Maybe her mom and Richard actually liked each other, despite having met under false pretenses.
“Welcome, Richard. It’s nice to finally meet you.” Colby shook his hand. “I hope you enjoy the evening.”
“How could I not when I have such wonderful company?” He squeezed her mother’s shoulder, earning her wide smile. Then he looked at Colby. “You two look like sisters. She’s very proud of you, you know.”
“Thank you.” Colby looked like her father, but she appreciated Richard’s attempt to flatter her mom’s youthful mien.
“Isn’t he a darling man? I’m getting smarter, aren’t I?” Her mom beamed. “Speaking of your father, seems that he’s late.”
“You’re early,” Colby replied.
“I’m eager to support you and Alec.” Her mother’s face lit. “Did he tell you about our little rendezvous last night?”
“No.” Alec and her mother had another rendezvous?
“Stitch had sneaked off on a walkabout. Alec found him half a mile from my house around ten. When he brought him to me, he visited for a while. So interesting to hear all about that commune. I think I might like to try that one day.”
Commune? Is that where he’d vanished to last year? “Why’d he tell you about that?”
Colby didn’t like that her mom knew something about Alec that she didn’t. And she really didn’t like how much that bothered her.
“I asked him where he’d been, and then I had so many questions. He went on and on about the small community in Virginia. Even passed on some gardening tips. Wait until next year!” Her mother smiled and thrust her thumb toward Richard. “Between this one and Alec, life’s been a whole lot more interesting lately.”
Richard said something to her mother, but Colby’s attention had turned toward Alec. Perhaps I can help you fill that so-called black hole of neediness, he’d said. Two baked goods and one cat delivery later, Colby had realized something wonderful about him. He did kind things for the sake of doing them, without showboating. In that way, they had something in common.
“Will your brother be sitting with Richard and me?” Her mother interrupted her thoughts with that unnecessary question. As if Colby would ever seat Hunter with Jenna when any other option existed.
“Yes, I put him and Sara with you. Why don’t you go to the bar and have a cocktail?”
Her mom noted Gentry and Jake in the bar area and adjusted her dress. “I see your sister has a new man. She runs through them like paper towels.”
“Leslie, let’s let your daughter get back to work.” Richard winked at Colby, who smiled appreciatively at his attempt to distract her mother from more nitpicking. “What would you like to drink?”
“A fancy champagne cocktail, please.” She squeezed Colby’s hand. “See you later.”
Within thirty minutes almost everyone had arrived, including Mrs. Morgan with three friends in tow. Colby hadn’t seen her up close in a while. She looked about the same as Colby remembered, but her eyes weren’t quite as merry. Hair styled in a neat bob. Dressed in an ecru A-line dress with cap sleeves. Reserved, like Alec. Of course, Colby had seen beneath Alec’s reserve.
“Mrs. Morgan, welcome.” Colby didn’t know whether to hug her or just offer her hand, so she ended up in an awkward kind of half embrace. “You must be so proud tonight.
“I am.” With a prim smile, she introduced her friends. After a few pleasantries, she said, “Alec didn’t exaggerate. This is a beautiful restaurant.”
“Thanks. We’re so lucky to have Alec in the kitchen. He’s like a fine wine, getting better with age.”
“I agree.” Mrs. Morgan smiled, and her eyes finally shone with some of their old merriment.
“I’m so glad you came.” Truthfully, Colby was grateful not to be confronted by Mr. Morgan’s glare tonight, until she stopped to consider Alec’s feelings. Being ignored by his father must sting, no matter how much he pretended it didn’t. Did that buried disappointment drive him? Was it what fed his temper? That possibility planted a thorny ache in her chest. “My mother’s in the bar if you’d like to say hello.”
If Mrs. Morgan didn’t want to, she faked it pretty well. “Who’s the gentleman friend?”
“Richard.” Colby considered mentioning the Snickers lie, but why inflame her mother’s already ridiculous reputation? There shouldn’t be any reason for Snickers to come up tonight. Let sleeping dogs lie. Colby chuckled to herself at that thought. “Enjoy the night.”
Colby’s father and Jenna had arrived while she’d been speaking with Alec’s mom. Her dad leveled a cool look at Jake over the rim of his champagne glass. Shoot. Seating Gentry with him might’ve been a mistake.
Meanwhile, Hunter had been only marginally happier to sit with their mom and Richard. He’d scoffed when Colby had “reminded” him not to forget about their dearly departed dog. Sara, thankfully, smiled and promised to make him put down his phone and converse. A reprimand Alec would never require, she thought with a grin.
Todd breezed through the door with Jacqui, Craig, and John, some of Colby’s former colleagues, carrying a bouquet of pink and white roses. He kissed her cheek. “Congratulations.”
“These are beautiful. Thank you.” Thoughtful, sweet, candid, steady. Apparently, these traits alone were not enough to make her heart patter. “Thank you all for coming.”
“We wouldn’t miss it.” Todd smiled. Tonight’s bow tie featured a turquoise background littered with tiny snails. She’d hand him this much: he wore it well.
“Becca will seat you, and I’ll catch up with you a little later.” She left the group with the hostess and went to put the flowers in water. Most women loved roses. Colby favored less formal flowers, like the tulips Alec had given her a few weeks ago.
She returned to the dining area to observe the waitstaff as each took dinner orders and delivered starter plates with items like Poached Marrons on a Crab Pillow with Truffle Emulsion, and Warm Artichoke Panaché with Vegetable Risotto with Lemon Emulsion. Watching them in action—moving in unison in intricate patterns—made her think of an old-fashioned quadrille. So far, no missteps. Her attention, however, lapsed when her father cornered her on his way back from the restroom.
“Things are going well, honey. I’m proud of you.”
“Thanks. I’m cautiously optimistic.”
“I know it hasn’t been easy for you with Alec.” He gently rubbed her back, blessedly unaware of the complicated ways Alec affected Colby. “I see Julie Morgan came without Frank.”
“I assume he didn’t want to see me.”
“It’s not your fault.” Her father kissed her temple.
“I know, but he’s still grieving over Joe. He needs someone to blame, and I’m the only one left. I only wish Alec got some support from his father.”
“You can’t fix everything for everyone. Focus on your own goals.” She must’ve frowned again, because he waved a hand. “Let’s change the subject. How’s Gentry working out? Is she pulling her weight or just wasting time like she is with this Jake?”
“She’s helping.” Colby glanced over her dad’s shoulder to watch the floor. “Really, Dad. She is. Go easy on Jake. I think she’s using him to get to you and Jenna.”
“Why the hell does she want to needle me? I give her everything.” He scowled. “She should kiss my damn feet.”
“If she lacks perspective, maybe her life’s been too easy. Don’t be mad at her for that.” Colby struggled to see beyond her dad’s tall frame.
“It’s not like you and Hunter had rough lives,” he griped.
“No, but our family broke apart. And we didn’t grow up in the McMansion with the pool and endless shopping sprees and a car at sixteen and . . .” Something in her periphery caught her attention. “Can we talk about this later, please? I need to pay attention to what’s going on.”
“Of course.” He patted her shoulder and returned to his table.
While she milled around the tables to observe and eavesdrop, Todd grabbed her hand.
“Sit with us.” He gestured toward the open chair at their table.
“I can’t. I’m sorry.”
“Come on . . . a few minutes.” His earnest grin, and the fact her friends had come out of their way for her, broke her down.
She glanced at them all, noting the remnants of Pan-Roasted Lobster with Stuffed Zucchini Flower and Tangy Persian Lime Sauce on Todd’s plate. Her mouth watered because she’d enjoyed taste testing that one yesterday. “How’s everything so far?”
“The food’s almost as good as that view.” Todd pointed through the open glass doors to where the sun was setting over the lake. “We’re all a little jealous you get to spend your days looking at that lake.”
“I’d miss the energy of the city.” Jacqui sipped her wine. “But this is a great little getaway.”
“Come whenever you need to escape Warren Blackstone,” Colby joked, thinking about the firm’s curmudgeonly managing partner.
“You’d better expect me on a regular basis,” Todd rejoined with laughter. His wistful glance, however, suggested he’d intended the double meaning of his words. Colby hoped their friendship didn’t suffer because she didn’t return his interest.
By the time she excused herself from her friends, most of the other tables had been cleared of the first course. Too late for her to determine whether the other guests had devoured their meals, like her friends had, or simply moved food around their plates.
She did, however, discern the fluidity in the way the waitstaff continued working the room. Gentry now wandered around, snapping candid photos. Guests were chatting and laughing. The upbeat energy took root somewhere in her chest and revved her.
That fizzy lightness lasted until her mother charged toward her—expression panicked—like a steaming locomotive about to hit broken railroad ties. “Colby, did you remember to tell Hunter about Snickers?”
“Yes, and I told Sara as well.” Good grief. This? Now?
“Richard mentioned him, and Hunter forgot to play along. He tried to cover his mistake, but I’m not sure Richard buys it.”
Colby glanced at Hunter, who speared her with bug eyes. Thankfully, Sara kept Richard distracted with bubbly conversation.
“I told you not to lie,” Colby murmured, “Just come clean tonight.”
“Then he’ll never trust me.” Her mom toyed with her necklace.
“Exactly why you shouldn’t lie in the first place.”
“Don’t lecture” came her harsh whisper. “I need your help.”
“I’m kind of busy, Mom. The main course is about to be served. Here’s my best advice: get back there before Hunter does more damage.”
Her mother’s eyes widened before she dashed back to her table.
As the main courses began to arrive, Colby decided to check on Alec. She popped into the kitchen and froze. Cooks frantically assembled each dish. Alec barked out orders and, alongside Chris, inspected and wiped every plate before it left the kitchen. Flames shot up from the stove, clatter erupted from the dishwashing station, waiters whirred past. Heat, noise, chaos.
The heart of the restaurant, and Alec made it beat like that of an Olympic athlete.
Another satisfied jolt stole through her. This was hers—or it would be once she paid off CTC’s investment. With Alec at the helm, they couldn’t fail. As if hearing her thoughts, he looked up.
“What?” Alec spared her the briefest glance before fixing his attention on the next plate set in front of him.
“I . . . I just came to check in.”
His brows knit together as he adjusted something on the dish. “We’re fine, but I need to focus.”
“Sorry.” She backed out of the kitchen in time to hear Jake’s voice rise above the din of conversation.
“At least people know what they’re eating when they buy my hot dogs.” Jake poked his fork at the pork croquette on his plate. It occurred to Colby that Jake would be the type to show up for a happy-hour deal, but not necessarily stay to eat. Maybe Alec had been right about her idea.
Colby hustled to their table in time to hear Jenna’s cool reply. “Eating with silverware must be a real change of pace.”
Jake shot up—his chair screeching against the wood floor—drawing everyone’s attention. “Bunch of snobs, praising bullshit food that people pretend to like, but everyone goes home hungry.”
Colby glanced over her shoulder and saw Mrs. Morgan’s cheeks turn red. Another black mark against the Cabot family in the Morgans’ book.
“Please sit down,” Colby implored. “If there’s a problem, may we discuss it privately?”
“No problem. I’m outta here.” Jake tossed his napkin on the chair and squinted at Gentry. “You comin’?”
“You’re making a scene.” Gentry kept calm, but Colby wanted to strangle the jerk.
“That’s on them.” Jake pointed at her dad and Jenna, then stormed toward the front door.
“See what you did?” Gentry sighed, almost as if she enjoyed the fiasco.
“Let him go.” Jenna sipped her wine. “He’s beneath you.”
“You are a snob,” Gentry sniped. Offering Colby an apologetic look before taking off after Jake, she said, “Sorry.”
Painfully aware of the eyes watching them, Colby fixed a calm grin in place. Not that she wanted to regress to a life of brave faces, but the skill she’d acquired during her marriage did come in handy in a crisis.
“Sorry, honey,” her dad muttered as she turned away to salvage the scene that had distracted everyone.
That’s when she noticed a victorious light in her mother’s eyes. Rarely did Jenna fail at anything, so Colby’s mom delighted in being present when she did. Despite her mom’s gloating, Colby loved Gentry and her dad and couldn’t shake the sinking feeling that her sister’s current path would lead somewhere terrible. After living through Joe’s and Mark’s deaths, she would’ve thought her family might stop taking one another for granted.
Tonight they’d pulled her attention from watching for people’s reactions to dinner. Had Jake’s response been the anomaly?
Focus. Dessert. Dessert was next. For the first time in forever, she thought she might prefer a stiff drink to the Grilled Pistachio and Chocolate Mille-Feuille she knew would be coming.
Determined not to get distracted again, Colby meandered around the tables and paid attention, as Alec had asked. By the time the dessert dishes were being cleared, Colby’s back and feet ached. If she was this wiped out, how could Alec keep upright?
His methods weren’t her favorite, but he’d pulled it off. With the exception of Jake’s tantrum, the night had been amazing. Alec had brought her one step closer to success. He might not seek the spotlight tonight, but he deserved it.
Crossing to the back of the house, she found him watching the plates as they came into the kitchen on the bus trays.
“Come take a bow.” She smiled because he looked like a marathoner who’d just crossed the finish line.
Following a brief hesitation, he nodded. When they entered the dining room, Hunter stood and clapped, which led to a round of applause from the rest of the guests.
He blushed and winked at his mom before bowing his head. Seeing him flushed yet proud might’ve been Colby’s favorite part of the night.
“Thank you for being our test crowd.” He walked to the center of the dining room, smiling. “My goal is for the service and meals to rival this beautiful space, so please be sure to pass along any complaints. Your feedback will be appreciated. Have a good night and a safe drive home.” He waved briefly and, turning slightly to her, murmured, “Let’s talk once everyone’s gone?”
“Okay.”
He promptly returned to the kitchen.
Colby ignored her throbbing feet and made one last round to each table to offer her personal thanks as well.
On his way out, Todd quietly asked, “Have you given any more thought to Thai?”
Although flattered, she wished he’d stop asking. She couldn’t make herself feel more for her friend than she did, despite him being capable of offering the open, respectful relationship she needed after dealing with Mark. “I’m sorry. I adore you and our friendship. I’m just not looking for more. But I’d love to grab lunch soon.”
Todd’s disappointed sigh preceded a nod. “Anytime.”
She kissed his cheek and sent him home, certain she’d made the right decision.
After the final guests had left and the waitstaff and kitchen help were nearly finished cleaning up, Colby ducked into her office to shut things down. She removed her shoes and rubbed her throbbing feet. She moaned just as Alec walked in holding two glasses of champagne.
He set one beside her, unbuttoned his chef coat, and slumped into a chair. “I dismissed the staff. Long—but good—night. Cheers.”
The unbuttoned collar gave her a perfect view of his throat working to swallow the champagne. He had an elegant, strong neck. Everything about him seemed so deliciously masculine lately. Instead of the infatuation filling her with hope, it made her sad. What if, after all this time, the one person she might be able to fall for was the least suitable person of all?
“I’m shocked you can keep your eyes open, especially after last night’s late-night cat rescue and coffee klatch.”
Another rosy blush colored his cheeks. “I’ve always liked your mom.”
“Someday I’d like to hear about the commune. Of course, whatever you told her has convinced her that those are her people, so maybe I’ll see it for myself when forced to visit.” Colby sipped her champagne, shoved her feet back into her shoes, and sat against the edge of her desk. “So, are you satisfied with the cooks?”
“I’m never satisfied. But we can build on this.” He leaned forward then, elbows on his knees, eyes alert. “Tell me what went wrong in the front of the house.”
Oh God. He’d performed his role to perfection, while she’d basically failed to do the one thing he’d asked. She braced for one of his spectacular temper tantrums.
“For the most part, people seemed pleased with everything.” She smiled, hoping he wouldn’t push.
“I noticed one untouched pork croquette. And the Grey Mullet with Pickled Mushrooms didn’t look like a favorite.” He frowned. “Did I miss anything?”
“The pork dish was Gentry’s boyfriend, who never tried it because he stormed off after he and Jenna got into an argument.”
“Oh, well, that’s good.” Alec smiled.
“Good?”
“If he tasted it and didn’t like it, that would concern me. But if he didn’t even eat it, then I’m going to stick with it. The others who ordered it cleaned their plates.” He nodded. “What else?”
Here goes nothing. “I got sidetracked by a variety of family quarrels.” She chewed her lip. “I’m sorry. I know you were counting on me for better information.”
He stared at her, his face impassive except for a tic of his jaw. She waited, nerves sparking painfully beneath her skin like they had anytime she suspected Mark might erupt.
Alec slouched deeper in his chair and stroked its arms. “It’s okay.”
It was?
“Are you going easy on me because I’m your boss?” She crossed her arms.
“I knew it’d be hard for you to focus when family and friends were vying for your attention. You’ll get better.”
She’d expected him to bellow—had imagined his brow furrowing and his face turning as crimson as the lava that spewed out whenever he thought his reputation was at stake.
Instead, he swigged the last bit of champagne, set down his glass, and stood. When he reached beside her to the photo she’d given him earlier, his nearness made her body temperature spike. She reminded herself this was only Alec, but somewhere along the way, Alec had come to mean much more than she’d ever anticipated.
“Besides, I’d never scream at you, Colby. If anything, I’ve been trying to make you laugh more.” He grinned. “Have the videos helped?”
“Nightly YouTube links to babies sucking on lemons and ‘Bat Dad’ are a step up from your grade-school jokes,” she conceded, trying to suppress a broadening smile.
“My favorite was the little boy running from his shadow.” His expression turned more contemplative as he held up the framed picture she’d given him. “You’ve always wanted to comfort others and see them happy. I just want that same thing for you.”
“Oh?” Part of her wanted to back up so he wouldn’t see the way her heart was pounding in her throat. But even if she wanted to, she couldn’t. The desk was at her butt. He looked at her with such intensity she couldn’t tear her gaze away. The sizzle of his attention traveled through her limbs and to her core. She hadn’t experienced this full-body buzz in ages.
She froze, waiting. Waiting for what, she couldn’t say. Every time she thought she had him figured out, he surprised her. Now she almost wished he’d flown into a rage so she’d remember why she shouldn’t look at him this way. Why this desire consuming her was unwelcome and dangerous.
He cocked his head, as if sensing her interest. How could he not when her body throbbed with it?
Alec didn’t move. Like her, he seemed to be waiting—that or toying with her. Had Alec Morgan become a master of seduction when she wasn’t looking? The anticipation of his touch stoked her hunger, even as she believed inviting it could well be a huge mistake.
Slowly he set the picture back on the desk and inched a little closer.
His hip now leaned against the edge of the desk so that their shoulders nearly touched. He didn’t even need to make contact for her insides to quiver, and yet her eyes remained locked on his.
Spellbound. Deliciously, dangerously magnetized.
“The only real question now is whether or not you’re happy.” He nudged even closer. “Was the evening everything you hoped for?”
“It was.”
It had been. The night had passed in a flurry of conversation, twinkling candles, beautiful views, and even prettier plates. The tinkling sounds of china and crystal had sounded as lovely as any quartet she’d ever heard. And most important, everyone but her dad and Jenna had left smiling. It was exactly the environment she’d envisioned, and she owed its success largely to her perplexing chef.
“I’m glad.” He fingered the fresh roses on her desk and frowned, softly muttering, “You prefer tulips.”
“I do.” How did he know?
“From your dad?”
She shook her head. “Todd.”
“Ah. He’s persistent . . . and thoughtful.” Alec dropped his chin, his gaze now on the floor, but really someplace distant.
She took advantage of the opportunity to study his strong profile. The sensual shape of his lips. The sharp line of his jaw. If she had a soft heart, she believed his to be softer, no matter how loudly he might yell. Even now, she knew he restrained himself for her sake. “Alec.”
It came out as a whisper, lying between them, unplanned. Gentle. A question. A sense of wonder at the surprising, powerful curiosity surging beneath her skin.
He snapped his gaze back to her, and, without thought, she craned her head toward his. Her hand landed on his chest, where it felt perfectly at home. “I’m not interested in Todd.”
His breath caught, or was that hers? Their lips were a hair’s breadth apart now, heated breath mingling. His heart beat against her palm, while hers knocked urgently against her ribs. She didn’t have time to analyze more because he cradled her jaw and kissed her.
Warm yet tentative, like he didn’t quite believe she wanted it. She did, so she gathered the open collar of his jacket in her fists. Her simple gesture had been enough of a signal. In an instant, hesitation fled, replaced by a firestorm of heat, of deep kisses, of fingers raking through her hair. Strong, confident sweeps of his tongue scattered any lingering doubts. Goose bumps fanned over her scalp, chased by tingles that drove through her limbs and pooled in her core.
He tasted like champagne and something earthy. The aroma of fresh herbs and spice wafted around them. Her body trembled until his arms closed around her with assuredness and strength, tugging her snugly against his chest, where she felt a vibrating hum.
She dug her fingers into his hair, holding tightly for fear of falling over if she let go. Alec’s hands swept down her back as he settled himself between her legs, dragging her hips to meet his. Right to where she could feel exactly how much he wanted her. A whimper stuck in her throat as tiny prickles skittered along her nerve endings.
His rough hands were on her thighs, inching her skirt up. He shuddered, then his mouth found the little spot behind her ear, which made her body respond in kind. The glorious sensation swept through her ferociously, making her tingly and restless.
Her legs—her whole body—went limp from the onslaught of pleasure and surprise. Of lust. Of desire she hadn’t felt for anyone for years. To want and be wanted. To give and to take. To meld an emotional connection that had spanned decades with a shiny, unexpected physical one. Only this man could satisfy that need. The reawakening of this part of her soul caught in her chest.
Alec growled her name and unzipped the back of her dress, his hands and mouth more commanding, more demanding. He pulled at her dress to expose her shoulder, which he then kissed and nibbled.
Her body welcomed his hot assault after two years of celibacy. Longer, even, because her sex life with Mark had tapered off significantly before Joe’s accident.
Mark. Joe. A tsunami of unwelcome emotions quickly laced her pleasure, the ring on her finger suddenly warm and heavy. Things with Mark had started off hot, too. She’d thought him the answer to all her dreams, until life with him became a nightmare. What if Alec was another mirage like Mark? Alec wasn’t uncomplicated. He had layers of difficult history and a father who hated her.
Irrational panic took root when she couldn’t shake the cautionary whispers. If anything, the whispers got louder, causing her eyes to sting. When an errant teardrop trickled over Alec’s thumb, he pulled away.
She mutely kept her clutch on his clothing, their labored breathing the only sound in the office.
“You’re crying.” His eyes reflected shame and concern. “I’m sorry. God, Colby. I thought . . . I must be stupid-tired.” Without hesitation, he yanked her dress back into place and zipped it up.
“Alec,” she said, but he jerked back as if burned on the stove, forcing her to release his jacket.
He shook his head. “Blame it on the champagne.”
“Alec, don’t apologize. I’m sorry.” She hugged herself. “It’s not your fault.”
Alec could barely breathe, making it difficult to focus.
Weeks of seeing her every day had churned his desire. Like a drug, it made him hallucinate invitation in her eyes. His reckless heart had abandoned caution and now lay lifeless in his chest. “It’s been an emotional night. I should’ve known better. And I broke your rule.”
“Screw the rule. I wanted you to kiss me. It’s been so long since I even had that thought, let alone acted on it. It was perfect until I got overwhelmed. Seems I’m not ready for anything more personal than friendship, no matter how much I thought—wished, even—I was.”
Her cheeks were pink, and he knew that degree of honesty probably wiped out her last bit of energy. He could hardly believe his ears. She’d wanted him to kiss her. She wanted him. Colby Cabot-Baxter liked him.
But it didn’t matter.
She remained painfully outside his reach. By her own admission, she wasn’t over Mark yet. Unlike other young widows, Colby not only mourned the loss, but she had to cope with the horrible memory of watching his suicide. That tragedy Alec might’ve prevented if only he’d have said something . . . to anyone.
Shame rushed in. Guilt. Anger at himself for thinking for one second he deserved a happy ending with her when her marriage only ended because of him.
“Let’s pretend it never happened.” He forced a light grin, hoping to dispel all awkwardness. “Like the other time.”
He wanted to scoop those last words back until he noticed Colby smile. “So you do remember that embarrassing day. I really forced you into an awkward position. Maybe I am more like my mom than I think.”
Alec could admit that he’d been her more-than-willing victim, but then she’d know that he’d pined for her all these years. No reason to make working together and being friends even more difficult. Neither of them needed a more difficult relationship in their lives. “It wasn’t so terrible.”
“Faint praise.”
“Now whose ego needs stroking?”
She grinned. “I’m glad we can tease each other about this, Alec. I wouldn’t want to hurt you or make things more awkward. I’ve been counting on this place to help me, but I didn’t count on this.” She gestured between them. “Our friendship has been an unexpected but wonderful bonus.”
“I’m glad, considering it didn’t start off on the best footing.”
“Which is why I’d hate myself for doing anything to damage it.”
“You haven’t.” If he stood there talking about it any longer, he might do or say something stupid. Time to regroup. He took the photograph she’d given him. “Thanks, again, for this. How about you let me walk you to your car?”
“Okay.” She grabbed her purse and shut off the lights.
Together they meandered through the darkened dining room in silence. Moonlight filtered through the plate-glass doors, casting blue-black light around them that enabled everything that had transpired between them to lurk in the shadows.
When they reached her car, he pecked her on the forehead. She hugged him, squeezing his waist for an extra second or two. “Thanks, Alec.”
“Drive safely.”
She looked up, and he could tell she had something to say but chose not to. Now he’d forever wonder what that was.
He repressed the “fuck it all” urge to kiss her again. To mimic guys like his brother and Mark, who’d felt entitled to take what they wanted and seized any opening to do so. But he’d never been like them. When it came to relationships, Alec always waited—for acknowledgment, respect, and love.
“Good night.” Colby slipped into the driver’s seat and started the car.
“See you later.” He stood back and watched her pull away, down the long driveway that led through the woods back to the main road.
She liked him, finally. He’d been infatuated with her for years. He wanted to surround her with his affection so she’d never feel alone. Todd had brought roses, but Todd didn’t know her. Alec could do better. He would do better. Flowers. Videos. Visits with Leslie. Hell, he’d continue praising his staff every day to make her happy, no matter how detrimental he considered that practice.
Spinning around, he caught a view of the moonbeam on the lake. It looked like the kind of thing one should make a wish upon, so he did. Of course, few of his wishes had ever come true, but he never gave up hope.