Page 3 of So Right
That was a possibility—one that he’d cling to. “Even if it is, there may not be much—or anything—to find. When they planted the vines in the early nineties, it’s likely they disrupted any archaeological evidence.”
Her expression turned to disappointment. “That would be a shame. I’m going to hope that the homestead wasn’t in the vineyard.”
“Or where any of our buildings are standing,” he said, thinking this project could be a real headache. He watched as consternation wrinkled her brow and felt bad for raising doubt and being difficult. He took a step toward her. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to put a damper on your enthusiasm.” Perhaps asshat didn’t adequately describe him in this instance. He might’ve gone full jackass.
“It’s okay,” she said. “All valid points.”
“Sure, but did I really need to be the bearer of bad news? I mean, what the hell do I know about any of this?”
“You’re concerned about your vineyard. As you should be.” She reached out and briefly touched his sleeve. He wished the contact had been firmer and lasted longer. “I’ll keep you posted on everything.”
That relieved him, but also ignited a spark. He had a reason to keep in touch with her. Beyond just dropping in on her at the library. He smiled, pleased with this turn of events.
Wait, was he thinking of dating her? He’d been focused on the vineyard since breaking up with Paige. He didn’t miss dating, and he wasn’t looking for a romantic entanglement of any kind.
Whoa, boy,he cautioned. You’re just having a nice conversation with an attractive woman.
His gaze dipped to the tattered hem of her jean shorts and the long shapely legs that descended to her scuffed hiking boots. It was ridiculous, but he found that small detail incredibly alluring. A woman who enjoyed being outside was a woman he wanted to get to know.
He had to amend his earlier assessment—she was areallyattractive woman.
She cocked her head to the side and narrowed her eyes at him. “What will you do if the foundation is right here in your pumpkin patch?”
He was pretty sure she was teasing him. He blew out a breath as he stuck his fingers in his pockets. “I’m afraid I can’t let you dig these vines up either. They’re special, you see. These pumpkins are magic.”
“As in Cinderella’s coach?”
He nodded. “Yep, but listen, you can’t tell anyone.” He lowered his voice to a whisper. “Those white ones turn into unicorns.”
She giggled then. “You’re a dork.”
He grinned at her, thinking how pretty she was with her pink cheeks and sparkling pale blue eyes that were probably the color of Cinderella’s gown. “Unabashedly.”
“Hey, Luke!” The call came down the hillside.
Luke turned his head, recognizing his brother Jamie’s voice.
“I’ll let you go,” Kelsey said. “I need to get back to work anyway—before the boss fires me.”
Luke fixed her with a steady stare. “He wouldn’t dare.”
She gave him a saucy smile as she slid her sunglasses back into place and turned. “Good to know.”
He watched her walk up the hill to the vineyard, her backside swaying as she ascended. Yeah, hiking with her was now officially on his list. Next time he saw her, he’d ask.
Shit, when? His life was harvest, harvest, and more harvest.
“Were you down here flirting with Kelsey?” Jamie asked, turning his head to look after her departing figure.
“No. We were just chatting. No big deal.” Luke put his sunglasses back on.
“Uh-huh.” Jamie gave him a teasing smile.
Luke rolled his eyes, not that his little brother could see them. “Did you need something?”
“Just wondered where you got off to,” Jamie said. “I probably should have left you alone. Well, alone with Kelsey.”
Luke was used to taking shit from his brothers on a variety of subjects that included his love life. And since he didn’t hesitate to dish it out, he was prepared to take it. “It’s not like that, but thanks for playing.” He started walking up the hill toward the winery. “What, you and Madison are cooling off so it’s time to stick your nose in my business?” He slid Jamie a sardonic smirk.
