Page 91 of Summer Love

"I'll talk to Valerie and see if I can keep that idea off the table."

"I like what I've heard about the article so far. I just want to make sure it's putting the business in a good light. I don't want it to be overshadowed with who's the hottest Kingston."

"There will be some of that. That's not something I can stop. You will get attention from this, but the article I'm writing is intended to put you in a good light. I asked everyone about their hobbies and what makes them unique. I want to showcase who you are as individuals and how hardworking you are."

"Okay." That sounded good. "I don't know why it was getting to me so much today. Maybe it was just Shep."

"He can get under people's skin sometimes, especially Kinsley's. She was particularly caustic with him today."

I chuckled, shaking my head. "Yeah, they don't get along."

"You can say that again. I almost wish they'd stay away from each other. It's a little uncomfortable to be around them."

"He seems to enjoy antagonizing her."

She gave me an exasperated look. "That's literally what he said in his interview today."

"I can talk to him. Tell him to tone it down around Kinsley. I don't want her to quit. She's been amazing for the office."

"I don't think that's necessary. I just wished they'd act like adults around each other."

"I've been waiting for Shep to act like an adult all his life. I think I'm destined to be disappointed," I joked.

"He is who he is. That's what this article is about, getting to know you guys on a different level."

I pulled her closer. "But I only want you getting to know me."

"Mmm. I already know you on an intimate level."

I pulled back. "I'm going to stick by my word and feed you first."

"No hot tub?"

"No hot tub. Besides, it's way too hot and humid for that."

"A cool shower could be nice," she teased.

"You're going to be the death of me."

"It's a good way to go.”

I checked the food on the grill and began removing it from the heat.

"I can't believe you did all of this for me."

"You worked hard today. You deserve to have someone take care of you."

"It's really nice. Thank you," she said as she sat at the table, pouring herself water from the pitcher I'd provided

I plated her food for her and set it in front of her. I had a fan set up to chase away the bugs and the stillness in the air.

While we ate, Elena chatted about my brothers. I'd been so busy the last few years; I hadn't paid much attention to what they were doing outside of work. It was interesting to listen to everything she'd learned about them.

After we ate, I cleaned up, and then Elena asked, "Want to go for a walk on the beach?"

My forehead creased. "It's dark though."

"We could take a flashlight," Elena said confidently.

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