Page 4 of Three Hearts Hideaway

Roman smiled what seemed like a genuine, caring smile, and fished his phone out of his pocket. “One second.” He held up his finger and disappeared into the back room.

Downing the last of her drink, she let herself wallow in her predicament a moment longer. Maybe she’d take her parents up on their offer to stay with them. Not that she didn’t love her mom and dad to pieces, but staying with them for a prolonged period of time was not something she wanted to do as a thirty-three-year-old woman. Neither was explaining the sexual content of Sebastian’s voice message in-person. But if it was a better option, then?—

“Oh darling, I came as soon as I could!” Gertie called as she entered the pub, interrupting her thoughts. Her chandelier earrings swaying with each step, she made a beeline for Ava.

“Bad news or good news?” Ava asked, fearing she already knew which it would be.

Gertie pursed her lips. “Mostly bad, I’m afraid. I can’t finagle a room for you at the hotel this week. The good news is, after the fishing competition is over, we’re wide open. You can have your pick of rooms.”

“I appreciate your help. I’m sure I’ll figure something out.”

“I can call a few ladies from my mahjong group, but I wanted to check if you’re comfortable with that first. I’m sure one of them has a spare bedroom or couch to sleep on for a few days. Or we could check hotels in Huntsville? It’s a town about an hour south of?—”

“That won’t be necessary, Gertie,” Roman’s deep voice rumbled from the back room. As he emerged, a brilliant smile filled his face. “We can put her up.”

Gertie clicked her tongue. “Oh, why didn’t I think of that? Logan’s done renovating the guest suites, then?”

“Not quite, but that shouldn’t matter. Ava can use the facilities in the back house if she needs.”

“And you don’t think Logan will mind?”

“Just got off the phone with him. It took a bit of convincing, but he says he’s fine with it.”

Who was Logan? What guest suites? It’s like they had forgotten she was sitting right there.

“Hi.” Ava waved her hand. “Can someone please clue me in here?”

Gertie beamed at her. “I can’t think of a better place for you to stay, and with two of the nicest fellas I’ve ever met.”

Ava shot Roman a quick glance, seeking clarification.

“Logan King is my best friend, roommate, and business partner. We have an extra space you can stay in for as long as you need. That’s why I stepped away. I wanted to confirm it would work before I got your hopes up, but you’re in luck. You can stay with us.”

Her eyes felt like they were bugging out of her head. Her mouth hung open in astonishment.

Roman must have confused her complete shock for worry because he quickly added, “If you want to, that is. Or you could stay with a friend of Gertie’s instead. If they are available and you prefer. No pressure. I get that we’re two random men and?—”

“No, no! Not that I don’t appreciate Gertie’s offer.” She turned to the sweet woman standing at her side. “You’ve been so kind to me. But I wouldn’t want to put out one of your friends if I don’t have to. It sounds like Roman has room to accommodate me, and I don’t want to be a burden. Is that alright?”

“Of course, dear.” She patted her hand. “I trust these fellas completely. They’ve helped me out of more than a couple of jams. I’ll be at the hotel if you need anything else. Don’t hesitateto stop by!” Gertie spun on her heel and made her way across the street to her hotel.

Ava would take her up on her offer to stop by. She’d bring her a small gift to say thank-you.

“So…you’re good to stay with us, then?” Roman asked from behind the bar.

“I already like you and so does Gertie, so I’ll take my chances. How much do you want?” she asked, opening the banking application on her phone. “I can send you a money transfer right now, so you don’t have to worry about me paying when I leave.”

“Don’t worry about it, Ava.”

Her eyebrows drew together. “I insist. I can’t put you out and not compensate you. You’re already doing me a huge favour.”

“Well, if you insist, let me talk to Logan and we’ll work something out together.”

She felt better about that. No way she could stay with these guys and not pay them for their accommodations. “So, will I like this Logan guy?” she teased.

Roman laughed and made a strangled noise that lodged in his throat. Like he was trying to suppress the sound coming out of his beautiful mouth. She wasn’t sure what to make of it, but it didn’t seem reassuring.

“Well, you like me,” he said, flashing his dazzling smile once again. “And Logan is 100% the opposite of me.”

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