“Never do that again,” he commanded.
Irritation flared at his tone.
I extracted my hand from his grip and placed it on my lap, feeling uneasy. “I was just trying to help, but you’re reprimanding me like I’m stupid.”
He growled, then sighed. “Look at me.”
I flicked him an annoyed side glance, then kept my gaze on the cars in the parking lot.
“Please.”
I turned and met his gaze. “What?” I didn’t hide my irritation.
A smirk tilted the corners of his lips. How could he smile when he knew I was pissed?
“Sorry for being an asshole, but I’m worried you might put yourself in danger. If you see him again, please call me immediately. If he’s truly the criminal we’re looking for, that means he has people around. They can snatch you up unexpectedly.” He took my hand again, looking stressed. “I care about you.”
“Did something happen today? You seem on edge.”
He considered me for a moment.
“If you want trust between us, then it goes both ways, Kain. I’ll call you if I see anything suspicious. But you need to share information with me too.”
“Someone left me a threat on my windshield.”
“What?” I shifted to face him. “Who?”
“The note says it’s from Hawthorne.”
“The serial killer? He’s alive?”
He nodded. “But I’m not sure if it’s him. He could be someone pretending to be Hawthorne to distract me. I doubt the guy buying the bleeding hearts is the one who left me thenote. The timing is off. He can’t be here and in Sturbridge at the same time. There are a few players here, but all of them could be from one organization.”
Fear stirred in me on Kain’s behalf. His enemies were getting close, contacting him. What could I do to help him?
We sat in the car in silence with our hands interlaced.
“Let’s not think about the dark stuff.” He squeezed my hand. “Let’s go plan something hopeful.”
We entered Kessler’s Studio and walked past a few construction workers. They greeted him, and he returned the friendly gesture. We came to an open space with a beautiful view of the street.
“I’m thinking a café can go here, along with two other vendors. The renovation would be complete in six months.” He swung our clasped hands. “What do you think? Any thoughts on what I can put here?”
“It’s a beautiful space. Lots of windows for sunlight. A café that offers healthy drinks and food would do well. People love convenience, including me.”
“I was thinking a small booth that sells plants would be nice in here too. People could pick up flowers for their significant others, along with some food before they head home. Maybe you can help me with that?”
My heart soared.Two offers in one day.Was it a sign from the universe telling me to go for it?
Ideas popped into my head. I could see an adorable setup with flowers, an assortment of terrariums and potted plants packaged to entice people. If I were to open it now, I couldn’t afford to hire help, especially with me working at Happy Flowers. More thoughts bubbled into my head.
“Would you consider having your employees manage the area while I supply the flowers? You can purchase the plantsfrom me, or they can be on consignment. We could discuss it later.”
“Anything you want. I want to make it happen.” He pulled me close to him. “So that’s a yes?”
My dream was coming to fruition, and gratitude filled my heart.
“How could I resist such an enticing offer?” I beamed at him.
