Page 16 of Island Holiday

“Why do you say that?”

“Because those two have spent way too much time away from the work zone while we’ve been talking.”

Her lips parted in surprise. “You should’ve told me.”

“We’ll be fine,” he said, assuring them both.

“Did you call for a ride?”

He grunted. “Didn’t think of it.”

“I’ll do it.”

“Let’s just get back to the condo.” But it was already too late. Flannel was striding quickly toward them, a hard intent in his eyes. Connor used the reflection of the next store window to confirm Football Fan was closing fast behind them. “Trust me?”

He didn’t wait for an answer, just pulled her around the corner. It was that or dart into traffic. No way was he taking that kind of risk with her.

The side street wasn’t as busy, but there was no immediate place to hide. No crowd to blend into and disappear. Where was a holiday parade when a man needed one? Somehow, he had to throw this pair off their trail. It was that or turn and fight.

No contest.

Keeping her close, he ducked into the first store without paying any attention. He was immediately faced with long display cases filled with jewelry. Framed art on the walls was interspersed with ad displays of happy couples and sparkling gems.

He’d landed in a jewelry store just days before Christmas. Except he wasn’t alone, he was holding hands with a beautiful woman.

Sonya leaned into him, her hands warm as she stroked his arm. “Oh, Connor! This was my surprise?”

He stared down into her face, awestruck by her acting. But it was the perfect way to draw more attention. The staff and customers had all turned their way.

“It’s about time, right?” He dropped down on one knee. This was fast-tracking his fantasies in a big way. “Sonya, will you be my wife?” The words came way too easily. He’d have to take closer stock of that later. Right now, they needed to keep up the ruse until Football Fan and Flannel gave up.

Sonya’s gaze darted past him. “Yes!” Her eyes locked on his, then dropped to his mouth.

Everything inside him went tight with anticipation. Fake or not, he wanted her kiss more than his next breath.

She bent slowly, really selling the whole moment as her mouth brushed over his. Her lips were sweet and hot. The kiss was a flash of heat lightning under his skin. He surged to his feet and claimed her with all his pent-up longing and current adrenaline. She gripped the panels of his coat, kissing him back if her life depended on it.

He had a sinking suspicion it did.

Dazzled by her, it took a minute for the sound of cheers and applause to register. Still, he didn’t want to stop. He cradled her head, taking the kiss deeper. He was instantly addicted to her taste, the softness of her lips, the flavors of coffee and sweet whipped cream lingering on her tongue.

She eased away, her eyes glowing with a heat that reflected his own desire, while her hands smoothed over his chest.

“Congratulations!” A salesman had walked closer and Connor hadn’t noticed. He pulled his mind back to the task at hand. “That’s the first proposal I’ve seen here in ages.” He smoothed a hand down his tie. “Makes me believe in Christmas miraclesagain.” Beaming, he looked from Connor to Sonya. “Do you have a particular style in mind?”

“Oh, gosh.” Sonya fanned her face. “It’s our first time with all of this. I’ve seen what’s trending.”

“Of course.”

“But I’m not sure any of those styles are for me,” she added in a whisper. “Connor? Did you have something in mind?”

Her acting skills were superb. He had to catch up fast. “I, um.” He cleared his throat. “I’ve looked around some, obviously.” His face felt as if it had caught fire. He sounded like an idiot. “Y’know, her answer was more important to me than the actual ring. Did I get that wrong?”

She looped her arm through his. “You got it perfect. We can shop for both of us now.” She pointed to a few settings that caught her eye and the salesman guided them to a few more. She tried on the various styles, making what he assumed were appropriate comments, while he surreptitiously watched the street. Eventually, he lost sight of Football Fan and Flannel and didn’t see anyone else loitering out there.

He listened to the whole pitch about choosing the diamonds of the right size and quality for his budget. Budget? Holy cow. He probably wasn’t getting out of here without a ring.

Sonya came to his rescue. “I know the budget,” she stated with an easy smile. “I’m the math girl in this relationship.”

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