CHAPTER 10
C HAPTER 10
C ort had a difficult time leaving Marlow. Almost from the start, she’d had that effect on him. She spoke fast and he liked it. She smiled and he wanted to smile back. Her strength impressed him. Her wit amused him.
But when she showed her vulnerability, swear to God, it was like someone reached into his chest and gave his heart a squeeze. He didn’t know what to do about it, and that was disquieting. He was a problem solver, and yet, Marlow was not a problem. He could never think of her that way.
If anything, she might be the solution. For Pixie, for this town.
For him.
They’d finished watching the sunrise a couple of hours ago. Breakfast was delayed while they shared a shower.
And then shared the bed.
It was a great way to start his day. Something he wouldn’t mind repeating. Often.
Like maybe for the rest of his life.
For now, he needed to get back on schedule. He carried his plate to the sink after a meal of pancakes and bacon. Marlow was still nibbling on hers while perusing the internet on her laptop.
He rinsed his plate. “What are you looking for?”
“Property.”
That halted him in the process of putting his plate in the dishwasher. Cautiously, he asked, “Decided not to stay after all?”
“What?” Startled, she glanced up and said, “I’m staying. I keep telling you that.”
“For the summer?” he clarified, wishing it could be different but knowing the rules of the town.
Her smile teased. “For as long as I’m allowed, actually, but that’s a conversation for another time.”
It wasn’t the first time she’d said something similar. Others had noticed that she was extending her stay—and so far, no one had complained . . . at least not to him.
The idea of having her close indefinitely was more appealing than he wanted to admit.
His feelings wouldn’t change the town rules, though. The people of Bramble didn’t want to add to the population, and thankfully, no one was ready to pass away. That meant adding one more inhabitant was out of the question.
“For now,” she continued, “I’m looking at buildings right outside Bramble. I want to open my own little shop, but I can’t find a space I like.”
Cort dried his hands and joined her, one palm flattened on the tabletop as he peered over her shoulder at the laptop screen. “What’s wrong with this one?”
“The exterior is too plain. I want a building with character. Something like the unique homes around here.”
Yes, knowing Marlow as he did, he could easily imagine what would appeal to her. Sliding back into a seat, he asked, “Mind if I do a quick search?”
She repositioned the laptop in front of him. “Pixie and I have exhausted all options. Feel free.”
The properties she’d already pulled up ranged from low-five figures to high-six. “Your price point leaves a lot of room, and there’s a small town in the opposite direction from where you’re looking that might better suit you.” The location would add just a few miles to the distance she’d input on the search.
“I hope you’re not trying to push me farther away.”
For a heartbeat, he went still as he absorbed the worry in her words. Push her away? Hardly. He’d rather have her closer. When he lifted his gaze to meet hers, he was careful not to show his surprise. “Have I said or done anything to give you that impression?”
Having the accusation turned back on her left her with a slight frown. “Well, no.”
The unspoken words hung between them. He hadn’t asked her to get closer, either. At least, not explicitly. He’d shown her, though, and for an astute woman like Marlow, that should have been enough—for now.
With his search complete, he turned the laptop back to her. “Are these buildings more to your liking?”
It took her far too long to drag her gaze from his to the laptop screen. Immediately her frown cleared. “Oh, these are nice.”
Cort had a lot to think about, so he pushed back his chair and stood. Marlow, now absorbed in the search results, didn’t look up.
There were moments when she totally confounded him, yet at all times she fascinated him, too.
Unwilling to be ignored, he caught her chin and lifted her face for a kiss. Not a quick “see you later” kiss, either. No, he made sure it was one she’d remember even after he’d gone. By the time he lifted away, she was limp in her chair, the laptop forgotten, her eyes half closed and her breath labored.
“Hmm,” she said. “If that’s how you react when irritated, I’ll need to bug you more often.”
A reluctant smile caught him off guard. “You deliberately set me off?”
“I like how you detonate,” she replied with a smile of her own. She, too, stood, and then walked with him to the front door. “Let’s make another deal.”
Temptation burned through him. “If it involves stripping off my clothes, I don’t have time.”
Her laugh was half snort, half surprise. “Unfortunately, I don’t have time for that either. If I want to catch Sandra, I need to make the call in the next fifteen minutes. Assuming her normal schedule has resumed, she’ll be heading out for a salon appointment soon.”
“I hope it goes well.”
“I just hope I can get a straight answer from her.” She stepped into the open doorway with him.
He’d like to think she was as reluctant to end their pleasant morning together as he was, but he could tell that Marlow had already moved on to business. It was one more thing he admired, her ability to compartmentalize tasks. He was sure that characteristic had helped to make her effective in business, too.
Looping his arms loosely around her waist, he prompted, “The deal?”
“If you decide you’re ready to move on, come right out and tell me. I can handle it, and it’s what I’ll do if I come to that conclusion.”
What the hell? There went his good mood, not that he’d let her know it. “So now I have to loop back to my earlier question. What did I do to put this in your mind?” Or was it something she was doing? Was the relationship winding down for her?
No, he didn’t like that possibility at all.
“You haven’t done anything.”
Was that the problem? Was there something she wanted him to do? Knowing the mess she’d walked out of, did she need something more of him? A declaration probably wouldn’t hurt. “I like you, Marlow. I’m enjoying our time together.”
“Our time has been interrupted by my in-laws, and now Pixie, and then there’s the possibility of an intruder on your property.”
“None of that bothers me, and it’s been my impression that you’re dealing with it, too, taking everything in stride.”
She laughed. “Not in stride, no. My mother-in-law is like fingernails on a chalkboard. Pixie was a punch to the heart, but now I consider her a friend. And that intruder, well, he scares me, but I’m not a faint-of-heart type of gal, you know?”
It was impossible not to kiss her. “Yeah, noticed.” And he admired that quality in her most of all.
Bemused by the kiss, she licked her lips and then continued as if she had a specific point to make. “Those are my problems. . . but they’re somehow becoming yours, too. That wasn’t my intent.”
“So you’ve livened things up a little.” With a deliberately casual shrug, he tried to let her know he wasn’t worried. “I appreciate it.” And then to give her another declaration, he added, “You’re worth it.”
Pleasure brightened her eyes and added a slight curve to her lips. Then she stepped in close and hugged him. “You always give me the best compliments.” After another squeeze, she stepped back. “Still, if it gets to be too much, I want you to be upfront with me.”
Cort gave her a long look. “I’m not him, Marlow. I’m not weak. I don’t play games, I don’t lie.” When she was with him, he didn’t want her thinking about her deceased husband at all. “And I would never use you.”
“You’re nothing like him. I know that.”
Did she? As a Marine, he’d been taught to keep himself in check. That discipline had carried over into civilian life. It was now a part of him, like the color of his eyes or his need to remain active. “I’ve been told I’m hard to read.”
Expelling a breath, she said, “ So hard to read.”
He cupped her face. “How about I promise to always be upfront with you? On everything?”
“I would appreciate it. And I’ll be the same.” With a wince, she added, “That’s why you should know that I don’t want to leave Bramble, and I’m mounting a campaign to win over the town.”
Cort grinned. Did she think he hadn’t noticed? That anyone hadn’t noticed? Marlow wasn’t a subtle person when it came to her intentions. “The originals are pretty entrenched in their decision to keep the town from growing, but they also like you a lot.” And if she didn’t prevail, there were properties outside the town proper.
“As long as you don’t feel pressured.”
She often amused him. This was one of those times. “I know the difference between pressure and pleasure. You’re pure pleasure.”
“See? Another amazing compliment.”
If he didn’t leave now, he’d be late. “Stay on guard today, okay? Let me know if you see any strangers around. I have some work to do for Wade, Gloria, and Bobbi, then I’m getting the extra lights I want to add so you and Pixie can see anyone who comes around at night.” He also planned to look into front and back door cameras. “I should finish up around six, which will still give me time to get everything installed.”
“Such a long day. I’m going to call Sandra, then check on Pixie. After that, if I can arrange it, I want to look at a few of those buildings. I’ll be back by six, though, so would you mind if I hang out with you?”
He’d prefer it. The more time he spent with her, the more he wanted, but now, with a possible threat in town, he’d like to keep an eye on her around the clock. Not that he’d tell her so. He knew on a gut level that she’d wouldn’t like overprotectiveness any more than he would, so he said simply, “Sounds good.”
By the time he pulled out of her driveway, he was running behind, but hopefully he’d cleared the air a little with Marlow. She needed to know that he liked the person she was, the way she’d reacted to Pixie, the way she embraced the town.
And he especially liked her honesty.
So far, there wasn’t a single thing he didn’t like.
But there were a few things he was starting to . . . love.
* * *
Marlow returned to her kitchen chair, took a few deep breaths, and then called Sandra. It threw her when her mother-in-law answered with an enthusiastic, “Marlow! It’s so nice to hear from you.”
Well, good thing this wasn’t a video call or Sandra would see her blank-faced surprise. The greeting sounded sincere and almost too happy. “Sandra. Good morning.”
“You haven’t returned my last few calls, and I was worried. I hope all is well with you.”
“Yes, I’m fine, thank you.” She detected no guilt in Sandra’s voice, but that might not mean anything. Often Sandra and Aston did things they shouldn’t and felt no remorse. This could be one of those times. “I’m working at the tavern—and having a wonderful time of it—but I get home late.”
Three beats of silence passed before Sandra said, “You enjoy working in a tavern. Is that a joke?”
“Not at all.” Knowing her statement had to be a shock to Sandra, Marlow made an attempt to explain. “After everything that’s happened this past year, I wanted a complete and total change. New people, new scenery. Being away from city life, living in this quiet little town and getting to know my neighbors, staying busy with a job that’s the total opposite of my old position . . . it’s rejuvenated me.”
“You’re trying to forget Dylan.”
There was both accusation and understanding in the words. Marlow held back a frustrated sigh. “No. That isn’t even possible.”
“Good! He should be remembered, now and always.”
So many times, Sandra had deliberately chosen to forget just how bad her marriage to Dylan had been. There was no point in reminding her again. “Sandra, I need to ask you something and I hope you’ll be honest.”
“Of course, you can have your old job back.” She laughed with relief. “We’ve been waiting, not so patiently, for you to make that decision. We temporarily filled the position, and young Mr. Williams is doing a fine job, but he’s not you, Marlow. He doesn’t breathe life into the company as you did.”
Marlow thought if her eyes widened any more, they’d probably fall out of her head. Somehow, her mother-in-law had managed to completely misjudge what she’d been about to say while at the same time giving effusive praise.
The type of praise she’d never given before.
“I’m sorry,” Marlow said. “You misunderstand. I’m not asking to return. I won’t return.” Her frustration expanded. “I’m not off on a lark. Not indulging a temporary eccentricity. I’m making deliberate choices that please me.” Her voice rose, no matter how she tried to control it. “This is my time, Sandra. I have no obligation to anyone else, no other responsibilities except to enjoy my life as I see fit. I really wish you’d believe me.”
“You sold his house.”
“It was our house, and yes, I sold it. As you pointed out, that house was practically designed by Dylan. He loved it far more than I ever did. As a woman alone, I didn’t need that much space”—or the painful reminder of a failed marriage—“and I didn’t want to live in the area anymore. There was no reason for me to keep it.”
Defiantly, Sandra stated, “I took all of his things.”
“I’m glad.” Marlow meant it. If it helped Sandra cope with her grief, she could build a shrine to Dylan, with all of his personal belongings on display. However, she could not expect Marlow to build it with her. “I actually called for another reason.”
“Other than ripping out my heart, you mean?”
Now there was the Sandra she’d known for so long. This time, Marlow released her sigh. Loudly. “My intent has never been to hurt you or Aston. I wish you both only the best.” Could they say the same in return? Certainly didn’t seem so. Her happiness had never been considered, much less prioritized. She understood that, but from now on, Marlow would do what was best for herself.
That determination brought her back to the reason for her call. “I have a question for you.” Wasting no more time, she asked, “Did you send someone to this town? A private detective, maybe?” Again, without giving Sandra time to formulate an answer, she said, “There was a stranger on my road, poking around and peeking in windows.”
The long silence was telling.
“Sandra,” Marlow repeated. “I hope we can be honest with each other.”
“We’re worried about you! You’re having a midlife crisis or something. We’ve tried to be patient, but it’s dangerous. For you, and for this family.”
Hearing the truth was a relief. At least the nighttime visitor wasn’t some shady character out to rob or worse. Just someone sent by her intrusive in-laws, overstepping as usual. “I’d like you to stop and think how you’d feel with a stranger peeking in your windows.”
“I’m sure you’re exaggerating,” Sandra scoffed. “There was no peeking involved. He was just trying to determine exactly where you’re staying, and then hopefully we can figure out why. If you need a raise, you know we’d be happy to accommodate you. It’s important to support family, after all.”
Marlow gritted her teeth. “I don’t need you to support me. I don’t need a raise.”
“Or,” Sandra continued, undeterred, “if you wanted a different position or to be placed in another location, you know we have opportunities all over the country and in other countries, too, although we’d prefer to keep you close so we can visit.”
It was incredible that no matter what Marlow said, Sandra didn’t hear her. She was determined to pursue her own course and blindly moved forward toward a future of her own design.
That was how it had always been, how Marlow had allowed it to be. But no more. Here in this small town, everyone listened to her, sometimes more than she’d like. She shook her head, laughing at her own inconsistency.
Cort always heard her. And Pixie, bless her heart, hung on Marlow’s every word. She enjoyed it, and more than that, she deserved it.
Done with the call, Marlow said, “I’m sorry, Sandra. I’ve resigned from Heddings’ Holdings and that won’t change. Ever. What I want now is a much simpler life, without the busy social calendar and business obligations.” Even knowing she shouldn’t share any more, Marlow attempted to convince Sandra with a few facts. “I’ll be starting my own business.”
Silence again.
“I want a small boutique with nice but affordable women’s clothes and accessories. Something I can manage with just a few employees, selling fashions that will appeal to the everyday person. Not for the money, understand. My financial situation is healthy, and I don’t need help in that regard. This is something I’ve always wanted.”
“Meaning you didn’t enjoy working with us?”
“Of course, I did! And I hope you and Aston were satisfied with my performance.” They’d better be. She’d been an overachiever for them, and for Dylan.
And honestly, for herself, too. She’d never been good at half measures.
“I’ll always appreciate you both. You gave me great opportunities, and in return, I tried to give you one hundred percent. I learned so much from my time with Heddings’ Holdings. Invaluable lessons that I often apply to everyday life.” Like strength, independence, and the ability to confront adversity.
Sandra suddenly changed the subject. “We haven’t heard any more from Pixie Nolan, thankfully. I told Aston that her name alone discredited her. What legitimate person is named Pixie? It’s absurd.”
The scorn in her tone made Marlow bristle. “Why do you hate her so much?”
“ Why do you not? ” Sandra all but erupted in anger. “That little gold digger tried to steal your husband! She tried to corrupt Dylan. And then she had the nerve to try to wheedle her way back in with us? Never .”
For as long as Marlow could remember, Dylan’s parents had made excuses for every wrong move he made. It was always someone else’s fault, never their baby’s. It was Marlow’s own anger that drove her to say, “Did you realize that Pixie was only nineteen? Nineteen , Sandra. If you ask me, Dylan preyed on her.”
“ How dare you? ” she whispered.
“One day, I hope you’ll realize that Dylan wasn’t the saint you paint him to be but a flesh and bone man who created many of his own problems.”
The call disconnected. Marlow waited, stunned, not only that Sandra would end the call like that, but also that she would lash out in such a way. Sandra hadn’t changed. She had always put a halo on Dylan, no matter what.
It was Marlow who had changed.
But in her anger, she had just betrayed Pixie.
Sandra was a savvy woman. A woman didn’t become rich and powerful by being na?ve. The fact that Marlow had just defended Pixie was bound to stay in Sandra’s mind. She’d chew it over until it made sense to her.
Eventually, she’d wonder if Marlow and Pixie had been in touch.
Well, damn.
* * *
Pixie sang to Andy while she did the dishes. There weren’t many, so it didn’t take her long. Every few seconds, her gaze returned to the baby, and each time, she got a smile. This, seeing Andy happy and being able to care for him, was all she needed to be content. He was comfortable, safe, and she didn’t have to wonder about running out of diapers or being able to clean his clothes. They were undisturbed. They had everything they needed. More than was essential.
Only because others were being so generous.
It was a wonderful—but temporary—fix. Making the same mistakes over and over would be unforgivable, so she had to think about their future. She needed to plan, and then she had to work toward that plan.
Today, she would call Marlow and explain that she was ready to get to work. She had to work. Until she started repaying her debt, she couldn’t move forward with her life.
As a realist, she knew this current situation couldn’t last much longer. Just thinking about Cort supplying her with a home and Marlow covering all of her expenses made her face burn with humiliation. She wanted to be independent, to take care of herself, and she had been, at least for a little while.
Until she’d met Dylan and her entire life had derailed in a big way.
When her phone dinged, she glanced at the screen and saw it was Marlow. Quickly, she dried her hands and read the text. Oh good, Marlow planned to stop by. Perfect timing. Of course, that impressive woman always knew the right social moves, so even though Pixie was dependent on her for literally everything, Marlow asked if it was convenient for her to visit.
As far as Pixie was concerned, Marlow could wake her in the middle of the night if she wanted to. Pixie owed her too much to ever refuse her anything. Besides, she liked and respected Marlow so much, she was always thrilled to hear from her.
After sending back a quick reply, Pixie finished the dishes and scooped up Andy to head to the front door. She got there mere moments before Marlow pulled in.
The fact that she’d driven instead of walking up told Pixie this wouldn’t be a long visit. She didn’t mean to, but she felt . . . envy. Where else did Marlow plan to go?
Wherever it was, Pixie would have loved to accompany her. Much as she appreciated everything that had been provided for her, now that she felt better, she was sometimes . . . bored. Just a little.
Feeling like an ungrateful loafer, she concentrated on greeting Marlow with a smile.
What a blessing it was to have her as a friend. Sometimes Pixie almost couldn’t believe it.
Holding the door open, Pixie said, “Come on in.”
“Thank you.” Smiling at the baby, Marlow asked, “May I?” and took Andy from her.
That, too, amazed Pixie. Marlow owed her nothing and had every right to despise her, but instead, she not only helped in every way possible but also seemed to truly care about Andy. Like an aunt.
Pausing, Marlow asked, “Hey, what’s wrong?” Then she made a face. “Did I overstep? I did, didn’t I? I asked if I could hold him and then didn’t even wait for an answer.” She cuddled Andy closer, nuzzling her nose against the top of his head. “I blame this cutie-pie, because he’s so irresistible.”
Touched by the sentiment, Pixie led the way to the kitchen. That was something she’d learned from Marlow. Lead a guest to a seat and offer her a drink. She indicated one of the two chairs at the table. “Andy adores you, so no, you didn’t overstep. I owe you so much that you never could. It just struck me . . .” But how could she explain? Shaking her head, she asked, “What would you like to drink?”
“A bottle of water would be great.” Settling Andy in her arms, she eyed Pixie. “What struck you?”
Worried that she’d offend Marlow, Pixie stalled while getting two bottles of water. She set them on the table and then took the chair opposite her guest. She felt silly, especially since she didn’t know how to put her feelings into words.
So often around Marlow, Pixie felt like a bumbling, awkward child. “Andy and I don’t have any relatives. I don’t mind for myself—I mean, I’m used to being alone—but for Andy . . .” She was blundering! “You’re really good with him, and I was just thinking that you’re like his aunt or something. Of course, you’re not, but sometimes I think of you that way.”
Marlow grinned. “Remember when you first came here, you said you were my sister?”
Groaning, Pixie covered her face. “I feel so bad about that.”
“Don’t. I’d love to be an honorary aunt. Even though I’m not actually a blood relation, I care about you both. Babies can’t have too many people who love them, right?”
Pixie had a hard time believing anyone could be that generous, and yet the proof sat before her. Seeing Marlow’s carefree smile, the affectionate way she nuzzled her nose over Andy’s sparse hair, she knew the sentiment was genuine. Her throat felt thick as she nodded. “The more caring people Andy has in his life, the better.”
“Then that’s settled.” Marlow cleared her throat and said in a mock-lofty tone, “Henceforth I shall be known as Aunt Marlow.” Her grin widened. “I’ve had many titles in my life, but I like that one the best.”
Over and over again, Marlow left her completely undone. Humbly, Pixie whispered, “I’m so grateful to you. I hope you know that.”
“Pfft. It’s a favor to me to have this little stinker in my life, so thank you . You’re both wonderful.”
It was an effort, but Pixie got it together, and just like that, real words, better words, came to her. “I’ve always been glad that I met Dylan. Even when I was most afraid, when I was at my sickest and couldn’t get out of bed, when I didn’t know what to do, I was still glad—because I had Andy. He kept me going when I really wanted to give up. Now I have another reason, too.” So many emotions welled up that Pixie was nearly drowning in them.
“It’s the town, right? I agree, Bramble is wonderful.”
“It is,” Pixie agreed. “Everyone is so nice, and Cort is so generous.” In some ways, Cort represented everything Pixie had never known: the shelter of a father’s concern, the protectiveness of a big brother. It was wonderful, but it wasn’t the most important thing.
Marlow watched her with concern.
Pixie’s lips trembled, partly with a smile born of happiness, partly because she didn’t know how her sentiment would be received. Didn’t matter. This amazing woman deserved the full truth. “It’s you, Marlow. I’m most grateful for you.”
A little breathless, Marlow said, “Oh.”
“I’m glad I met Dylan because I got Andy in the bargain. And I’m glad he didn’t marry me, couldn’t marry me, because now I’ve met you. All my mistakes and bad judgment have brought me here, and no matter what happens now, you’ve had a huge, positive impact on my life.” Her lips trembled, causing her next words to emerge as a whisper. “I love you for that.”
Marlow shocked her by getting red-eyed, too. “Oh, honey, I feel the same way.” Sniffling, she left her seat to give Pixie a tight, one-armed hug while still holding Andy securely.
The baby broke up the emotional embrace by grabbing a fistful of each woman’s hair. They were tearfully laughing as they worked to free themselves. Andy just kicked his legs and cooed at their efforts.
When they were seated again, each of them blinking back tears and still smiling, Pixie felt a contentment she’d never known before. No, Marlow wasn’t family, and wasn’t even a typical friend, but she was more like family than Pixie had known in years.
Sighing, she said, “I know you’ll grumble at me, but I have to keep saying it. Thank you . I hope you know how much you’ve impacted my life.”
Marlow reached out for her hand. “Honestly, you’ve impacted mine, too. I’m glad you came here, and that you trust me.”
Holding hands with a woman was a new experience, too, but Pixie liked the connection. How she wished she really had a sister like Marlow. Probably she would have been a better person if she’d had someone like her in her life.
That thought brought back to mind the reason she’d wanted to talk to Marlow. She released her, took a swig of water, and squared her shoulders. “I’m ready to get to work.”
Marlow blinked. “To work on what?”
“Anything you want. I’ve loafed around enough, and I swear I feel fine now.” Mostly fine, anyway. “Andy takes lots of naps, and more and more, he’s sleeping longer at night.” She waved a hand at the kitchen. “It takes me no time at all to feed myself and tidy the house, so I have plenty of free time to tackle anything you need done.”
A considering look fell over Marlow’s face, and she nodded in that decisive way Pixie had come to know. “What do you have planned today?”
Excited, Pixie leaned forward. “Nothing. Give me any task and I’ll get to it. I’m anxious to dig in.”
“I’m going to look at some property. Want to come along? I could use another opinion.”
A bubble of pure joy swelled inside her. “For real? You mean it?” Marlow wants my opinion? Then reality hit her and she knew she had to be fair. “I’d love to, but I don’t know anything about property.”
“You probably know more than you realize, and even if you don’t, I could use the company.”
Her heart started beating too fast and too hard. In such a short time she’d gone from absolute rock bottom to this—living in a cute little house, surrounded by comfort; visiting with such an impressive woman who had every right to hate her and instead valued her company. Laughing in sheer joy, she popped to her feet. “I would love to! Thank you.”
“Stop thanking me. You’ll be doing me a favor.” Marlow stood, too. “Grab your shoes and anything this squirt might need, and we can get on our way. I want to get back to see Cort while he installs our new lights.”
Pixie gave her a teasing look as she fetched her sneakers by the back door. “Cort’s more than your landlord, isn’t he?”
Bobbing her eyebrows, Marlow confirmed, “He is now, and I’m enjoying every minute.”
“Of course you are. He’s awesome, but then so are you. You guys make a great couple.”
Marlow beamed at the praise.
In two minutes, they were heading out the door, and for Pixie, it was the first relaxing adventure she’d had in a year. For too long it had felt like life was against her, and every drive was a desperate search for help.
But now . . . life was just plain good.