Page 3 of Wild Love

We made our way around the crowded room. I managed to put my bid on a beach vacation. Someone had offered up their beach house on Sanibel Island. It could be a nice respite from the cold winters here, but I didn't have anyone to share it with. I could take one of my brothers, but a beach vacation seemed like it was meant to be spent with a significant other.

I had no intentions of settling down anytime soon. My focus was getting approval for our expansion project and erecting cabins on the property. I'd wanted it done before the winter season, but it didn't look like that was going to happen.

Kylie stood with her significant other, and our friend, Tyler. "How's it going?" I asked them, slapping Tyler's back and hugging Kylie.

A smile spread over Kylie's face. "Great. I think we're going to be able to buy a lot of nice equipment for kids who need it."

I rocked back on my heels. "I haven't even written my check yet."

Kylie just gave me a look. "You don't have to donate to all my causes. Keep the money for the resort."

"This isn't the business account. It's mine, and I want to support my favorite sister."

Kylie grinned. "I appreciate that."

"I know what it's like not to have the equipment you need." I remember how uncomfortable it made Chance to take our things. Over the years, we got better about leaving them at his house and pretending we'd forgotten about them. Then when he'd try and return them, we'd say it was an extra we didn't need anymore.

Mom had caught on quickly and always made sure she bought an extra bat and glove when baseball season rolled around.

"You're the best brother," Kylie said, giving me another hug.

"Hey, I do your books," Oliver protested.

"You're my favorite accountant," Kylie said to him with a laugh.

"I'm going to get some air." I left them talking and wandered outside to the large deck on the back of the property. Not many people would be out here this time of day. There was a fire burning in the large hearth on one end, but I purposely went to the opposite to get some quiet.

I frequently wandered the property to ensure things were running smoothly. It meant that I was constantly scanning for problems; it was exhausting. I sat in one of the cushioned chairs, letting my bottle dangle from my fingers.

"I didn't think anyone would be out here."

I started, not realizing someone was sitting in the dark.

A cell phone light came on, illuminating her face. "It's just me."

I tensed. "Scarlett."

She turned her light off, washing us in darkness once again.

"What are you doing out here?" I asked her tentatively, prepared to go inside. I didn't want to be caught with Chance's sister, especially after she'd spent time with my brother.

"I could ask you the same thing."

My shoulders crept up to my ears. "Xander bothering you?"

Scarlett laughed, and the sound echoed around us. "Xander's harmless."

"I can tell him to leave you alone," I offered, hoping she'd take me up on my offer.

Her hand covered mine briefly, then was gone. "I appreciate that. But I can handle myself."

"So Chance says."

Scarlett laughed. "My brother can be overprotective."

I shook my head. "Can you blame him? You've always been a wild child."

"I don't care for the judgment I hear in your voice," Scarlett said carefully.

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