Page 13 of Mine to Save

“It’s nice to meet you,” he managed.

“This place is a bed and breakfast? It’s a freaking mansion.”

“I know. Wait until you see the inside.” He lifted her suitcase and carried it to the bottom of the stairs.

“I don’t think I can afford this.”

“A friend of mine owns it.”

“That’s what you’re calling me these days?” Melinda glided across the living room floor. “Six months ago, he would have introduced me as his biggest mistake.”

“I wouldn’t go that far,” he mumbled.

“Hi. I’m Melinda. Emmett’s ex. Welcome to the Landon Lighthouse, and don’t worry about the rate. As Emmett said, it’s been handled.”

“Oh, no. I can’t let you—”

“Yes. You can.” Emmett placed his hand on the small of her back. “I insist.”

“We both do,” Melinda said. “Though he hasn’t told me why you’ve come to town.” Melinda held up her hand. “And he’s asked me to drop it. So, I will.”

Occasionally, Melinda did something that surprised him. This was one of those times.

“Why don’t I set up some snacks and a bottle of wine outside by the pool?” Melinda said. “You can take her bag to room eight.”

“Thanks.” He smiled. “Follow me.”

Room eight was on the second floor, down the right hallway and all the way at the end. It wasn’t the best room, and it was the smallest with only a full-sized bed, but Melinda had said that the bed and breakfast was nearly full. At least the space had a small balcony and a view. Emmett knew that Trinity would be comfortable.

“You and your ex have a decent relationship.”

“It’s interesting,” Emmett admitted.

“How long were you together?”

“Almost six years. Engaged for four.”

“Wow. When did it end?” She followed him into the bedroom.

He hoisted her suitcase up onto the luggage rack. “Almost two years ago. She got married last month. Her husband’s a good man, and a friend of mine.”

“How do you feel about that?”

“Wasn’t too thrilled at first, but they’re perfect for each other.” He ran a hand across the top of his head. “He’s a little more inclined to let Melinda do things her way. She’s a sweet person, but sometimes it’s her way or…hit the highway.”

“I have one of those in my life—only I wouldn’t say nice things about him,” Trinity said. “I could really use that glass of wine if you don’t mind.”

“Not at all.” He waved his hand toward the door and then mentally gave himself a tongue-lashing for watching her ass swing left and right as she sashayed down the staircase. He’d known her for all of ten minutes and already found himself wanting to know everything about her—and not just because he was attracted to her.

Because she carried herself with confidence.

But shewashot.

“Melinda puts on a good spread for her guests.” He opened the sliders to the outdoor patio. “There’s a sheet in your room to fill out and leave for her and the staff, letting them know your daily needs. She’ll make sure you get whatever it is, including a nighttime snack like this. Though the wine costs extra.” Emmett took the bottle off the table and winked. “Except where you’re concerned.”

“I want to pay my way.”

“Don’t worry about it. I want to do this for you.” He poured two glasses of wine and handed one to her before settling onto one of the lounge chairs that overlooked the inlet. He missed this part of living with Melinda. But only this bit. He didn’t miss living with his ex. He’d gotten over her, though it had taken some time because he had truly loved her—faults and all. “I know you’ve had a long drive, so if you want to wait to get into everything—”

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