Page 57 of Come to Me

He worked to push the irritation of that away. “Why did you come join me?”

“The temptation got the best of me.”

“The cool lake?” he asked.

“The hot man.”

His lips twitched up. He’d never have thought of himself as a hot man. It did his ego good that she did.

They were silent for a few moments, then she asked, “Where’d you go the other day?”

He knew her real question was why the change? “I saw Sydney for lunch.”

“You two are best friends.”

He brushed his arm up and down her back, enjoying the feel of her skin and the quiet intimacy of it. “We grew up together.”

“And dated.”

“In high school. I think our families would have liked us to be together, but there’s no doubt that Mitch is the one for her and I’m happy for her.” He added that last bit, so Michaela was sure he didn’t harbor feelings beyond friendship toward Sydney.

“They’re lucky to have found each other.”

And to be able to be together, Patrick thought but didn’t say. He didn’t want to reveal too much of his feelings when they wouldn’t matter. Even if Michaela felt the same, there was no changing their destinies.

“You’re resigned to run the family business?” Her voice was tentative, as if she was worried about asking the question.

“I suppose resigned is one way to look at it. It really makes the most sense.”

She lifted her head and looked at him. “But what about what you want?”

He tensed, not wanting to discuss his future. He just wanted to be in the moment. “I can’t have what I want. But I’m okay with this decision.”

She stared at him like she didn’t believe him, but then lowered her head. “I might have the same situation if this place fails, or my parents sell it.”

“Have you ever thought of marketing this place to groups? Or maybe events outside of the Fourth of July?”

“We’re rustic. I’m not sure that would appeal when there’s a large resort with all amenities up the road.”

“Oh, I don’t know.” He turned so they were both lying on their sides face to face. “What about weddings?”

“We don’t have a large or nice enough place for that. Or all the tables and chairs and stuff needed.”

“What about family reunions? Or maybe company retreats?”

She started to open her mouth but then stopped, her brows furrowing as if she was considering his suggestion. “I don’t know that companies would come, but family reunions, that could be something.” She grinned at him, and he felt it deep in his soul. “You’re full of good ideas.”

“You think so?”

“I know so.”

“I have another idea.” He pushed her back, settling his body over hers.

“Is that what is poking at me?”

“It is. What do you think?” He guided himself to her, already hard and pulsing with need.

Her legs wrapped around him. “I think it’s a spectacular idea.”

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