Page 16 of Can't Fight the Moonlight

He was supposed to be in Whisper Lake for his grandparents, but all he seemed concerned about at the moment was his work problem. Hopefully, he would get that resolved, and then he could concentrate on Marie and Benjamin and really be present for them when they arrived. She knew how important it was to them that Justin be at their vow renewal, since apparently their son and daughter-in-law, Justin's parents, couldn't or wouldn't make the big event. She knew there were some tensions in the family, but she wasn't quite sure what they were about. Not that she needed to know. She just needed to make sure everyone had a great time, and that included Justin.

She would find a way to put a smile on his face.

And then she would have to find a way to stop that smile from sending unwanted butterflies through her stomach. It had been a while since she'd felt those butterflies, and she didn't need to feel them for a man who was only passing through town on his way to somewhere else. She needed to fall for someone who wanted to stay in Whisper Lake forever. That wasn't going to be Justin Blackwood.

A knock came at her half-open office door and her eyes flew open as Justin walked into the room. He'd changed into a maroon polo shirt and faded jeans. The casual wear made him even more appealing than his very expensive suit. His face was still bruised, but that only gave him a more rugged, masculine look.

"Are you ready for me?" he asked.

She wanted to say no, because her heart was already beating faster, and her palms were starting to sweat. But he was just talking about her computer, and she needed to get a grip. "Yes," she said, forcing out the word.

She got up from the chair and tried not to brush against him as they each moved around the desk, but the brief touch of their arms sent a rush of warmth through her. She definitely was not ready for him, not in any way, so she moved toward the door.

"Take as much time as you need," she told him.

"You don't need to work in here?"

"No, I'll be somewhere around the inn," she said vaguely. "There's a landline, so I think I'll hang on to my phone."

"All right. Lizzie?"

His question forced her gaze to his. "Yes?"

"Thanks."

She was surprised. "You're welcome."

"I realize I've been a little…"

"Annoyed, irritated, angry, impatient…" she offered when he couldn't seem to come up with a word.

He smiled. And just like that, the butterflies danced again. "All of the above."

"Well, it's been a rough day," she said.

"It has. Didn't I hear something about cookies?" he asked hopefully.

"I'll get you some. What would you like to drink?"

"Coffee?"

"Coming right up."

"I don't want to put you out."

"It's what I do. I take care of my guests. Make your call. I'll try not to disturb you when I come back."

"Somehow, that seems unlikely," he said dryly, and as their gazes met, she thought he might be just as aware of the simmering attraction between them as she was. But he wouldn't be interested in pursuing that attraction, either. They might not have a lot in common, but she had a feeling they'd be in agreement on that.

She slipped out the door and ran into Shay and Victor. Judging by the worried look on Victor's face, she had a feeling Shay had already given him a heads-up.

"Victor, we need to talk," she said.

"I know. I can explain," he said.

"Hold that thought," she said, turning to Shay. "Would you mind getting Mr. Blackwood a plate of cookies and some coffee and then take it into the office?"

"Of course," Shay said, leaving the two of them alone.

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