Page 70 of Billionaire Protector

“I’m not building an entire house, just contributing a little. Jess Andrews needs to expand her home to accommodate her grandfather, and I don’t have anything major planned for the next few weekends. Plus, I have some extra materials. It’s no big deal.”

Actually, it was a huge deal. Cole acted like it was a simple job, but it would take far more than a few weekends of work, and thousands of dollars of materials he couldn’t possibly have just hanging around. He was doing Jess – and her grandfather – a big favor. No matter how she tried to convince herself otherwise, Cole wasn’t a bad guy. Not even close.

And with every good deed, she was falling deeper and deeper for her would-be nemesis.

“Let’s talk about our schedule for today,” she changed the subject before she fully lost herself in the power that was Cole Carter. She removed a printout from her purse. “Here’s the information from the fair organizers. First, we’ll select our Renaissance outfits, which we get to keep as part of our prize. Then we’ll explore the fair, which includes comedy, musicaland action shows as well as vendors and artists sharing one-of-a-kind masterpieces. Finally, we’ll be the guests of honor at the grand feast, with death-defying stunts and a five-course extravaganza.” She folded the paper into a small square. “And in case you’re wondering, I’m afraid.”

“Don’t worry. I’ll protect you.”

“I was joking.” Sarah put the paper back into her bag. “Once again, you’re forgetting I’m your boss. I’m more than capable of protecting myself.”

“I’m beginning to realize that.” Cole cast her a sideways glance. “In fact, I’m beginning to realize a lot of things about you, about the present and thepast. I consider this prize an opportunity. We have the whole day for you to show me who you really are.”

She stiffened. He’d been chasing her secrets since the moment he returned. Had he discovered the truth?

The truth of who she was.

The truth of who she wasn’t.

The truth of how she was starting to feel about him.

CHAPTER 14

Sarah Sloan’s Review

Cole Carter’s Car:5 stars

Strong. Powerful. Muscular. Filled with power and fueled by strength. Beautiful to look at, but what is underneath is even more intriguing. Can move a little too fast but doesn’t apologize. I could spend all day just admiring its far too tempting attributes.*

*Disclosure: May not be describing car.

The past had come alive.

An enchanted realm beckoned, a storybook adventure with royal kings and wise queens, valiant knights and majestic steeds. Skyscraper trees and crystal lakes provided the perfect background to multicolor tents and colorful flags, set against an aqua sky with cotton candy clouds and a brilliant golden sun. Sarah was a kid again – in the type of childhood she’d always wanted – as she strolled through the Renaissance wonderland. She took a deep breath of woodsy air, as she walked over crunchy leaves and dewy grass.

A thousand sights competed for attention. From magicians to Shakespearian actors to classical singers, performers of all kinds presented their skills to amazed audiences, delighting generations of families. The aroma of freshly baked bread wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of gardenias and pine trees. Vendors hawked all sorts of goods, from homemade jewelry to hand carved goblets to “magical” potions. Cole pointed to a tent selling weapons, where a silver broadsword gleamed in the sun. “How about Harmony Creek P.D. add that to the required arsenal?”

It was surprisingly easy to imagine Cole wielding a sword, channeling its power to conquer all evil. She vanquished the image. “I think you’re powerful enough as it is.”Woops. That definitely made the “Top ten things not to say to the overbearing, too-hot-for-his-own-good hunk next to you” list.“I mean the answer is no. At least not for you. If anyone is going to carry a sword, it’s me.”

He gestured to the weapon. “Are you sure you can handle it? It looks mighty big.”

“Of course, I can handle it. I’m used to handling heavy swords. In fact, I’ve handled many–”

She stopped when he blinked at her.

When she realized exactly what she’d said.

Oh sh–

“I mean I haven’t handled that many swords, well not too few of course. Probably your average number.”

He smiled. Slowly. Knowingly. Wickedly.

Yeah, he knew exactly what she was thinking.

She stopped. There was no way around this. “We’re here!” The relief was all-encompassing as they reached theLadies, Lords and Peasants Costume Shop, and she dashed inside. Thankfully, Cole didn’t comment as he strode after her, and she vanquished the unfortunate conversation to the mud pits wherethe tavern wenches sparred. Fortunately, her new surroundings provided captivating distraction.

If the outside view was enchanting, the inside of the shop was magical. Exquisite garments covered every inch of the spacious tent, hung on carved wooden racks and garbing lifelike mannequins. Crafted of silks, satins, muslin and brocade, the elaborate Renaissance dresses conjured memories of the fairy tales she’d longed for once upon a time. The men’s section sported regal outfits and full suits of armor, beckoning from the pages of a history book. Like its moniker suggested, the store carried clothing from all walks of life, from wench’s outfits to majestic gowns fit for a queen, with a similar range for the men.

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