Page 64 of Seductive Nights

"Oh, of course. I'll find a safe place for them."

He hustled to the kitchen with the box of flowers and found a spot high on a shelf for them to rest. As he stepped back outside, the transformation of the beach and what he usually saw as he came out here, was a sharp contrast to the usual.

Margo neared, and he said, "This is stunning. I think Hanna's going to be thrilled."

Margo turned and took in the entire beach as it looked right now. "Thank you. I think it came together beautifully. I didn't pick out the colors, Hanna did, so I only get credit for putting them in place."

He chuckled. "Well, you're doing a good job with it. Even if you're being modest."

He kissed her lips lightly. When he pulled away, he looked into her eyes. His thumbs brushed her cheeks. He swallowed the lump of emotion that formed and smiled softly. "I love you, Margo."

Her eyes rounded. Then they glistened. She stared at him a moment. Her lips quivered. "I love you too, Jace. I was afraid to say it."

"I know what you mean. I was a little afraid myself. But I know in my heart how I feel. And what I feel for you is love. I love you. The time we've spent together has been the best in all my life. I look forward to each day with you. I especially like the nights," he chuckled.

She chuckled and socked him in the arm. "Okay."

He laughed. "I didn't mean I only like the nights. I meant I especially like the nights. You're a seductress. We have such— well, what are they? Seductive nights. The thought of being with you makes me eager to come home. And the nights when I come home, and you're there waiting for me? Oh, man, do I love that. I actually think you should just move in with me so I know that you'll be home with me every night."

She swallowed, but her eyes didn't veer away from his. She whispered. "Wow."

Her arms slid around his waist. "I hadn't— I guess I hadn't thought about that."

"Margo, you'd be perfect in the Governor's Mansion, don't you think?"

She chuckled. "Oh, is that why you want me there? To be a little pretty thing in the Governor's Mansion for you?"

"No. I like you being my playmate. That's a fact. But I really want you there because I enjoy spending time with you. Think about it." He kissed her lips. "Think about moving in with me."

"I will." She took a breath. "Think about it, I mean."

He kissed her lips. Carley called out from the beach, "Come on, you two. We've got work to do."

Jace turned and laughed. "All right, all right, all right."

He kissed Margo's lips once more before sauntering back to the restaurant to bring out more of the burners for the buffet set up.

His phone rang. "Marriott."

There was a hesitation on the end and then a woman's voice. "Hi, this is Krystal Jones. I met with you earlier this week for the server position. Or the bartending position. You said both were available to me if I was interested."

He nodded. "Oh, yes, yes. Hello."

"I'm interested." She hesitated. "I mean, I'd like the job, please. I'm nervous because sometimes I shake. Remember, I mentioned that. It's my PTSD."

He took a breath. "Krystal, I only hire veterans. Also, we all have something we deal with here. My friends and I offer community discussions at our Legion here in Blossom Springs. And my friend, Quinn, is bringing in a counselor once a week to help those who need it. It's our commitment to help others."

"Yes. I remember. It's why...I mean, I'd like to be included."

"I promise you'll be included. When is your first availability?"

She cleared her throat. "I can start next week. Monday or Tuesday."

"Perfect. How about ten o'clock next Monday? And I'll get you set up with a schedule and training."

"Thank you, Mr. Marriott."

He chuckled. "Jace. Call me Jace."

---