“He doesn’t negotiate his rates. Why should you?”
Zander had a point. Pausing, she studied his face. Beyond the gorgeous angles, chiseled cheekbones, and those beautiful translucent eyes, worry lines forged deep craters between his brows. But the dark stubble running along his jawline gave him a sinfully sexy look.
“So,” she said, playing things cool. “What brings you to the land of enchantment?”
His gaze darkened. “You.”
As they stared into each other’s eyes, blood whooshed through her veins. She shouldn’t be so damned glad to see him. In fact, she should be outright pissed that he’d shown up while she was working.Who does he think he is, anyway?
The waiter provided Zander with a place setting, set down two lemon-infused waters, and dropped off menus.
“I owe you an apology,” he said when the server left.
“For what?”
“I fell asleep last night.”
She let out a low chuckle. “You didnotfly across the country to tell methat.”
“No, I didn’t.”
Leaning back, she crossed her legs. “Look,brother, I am dead-set against commercializing that darling, little town by adding a casino and a zillion outlet stores. So, unless you have somethingelsein mind, you can take your fancy duds and glitzy shoes, and hop the next flight back east.”
“Not happening.” He raked his long fingers down his scruff. “Turns out, that’s not the only reason I’m here.”
“Oh, this oughta be good.”
“I’m assisting you this weekend.”
What? Though a ripple of need skittered through her, Savannah barked out a laugh as the server set tortilla chips and a trio of salsas on the table. He pointed to each bowl. “The heat level goes from mild to spicy hot.”
She eyed Zander.It sure does.“I’ll take a double shot of tequila,” she said to the server.
“We have to work,” Zander said. “How about an iced tea or an Arnold Palmer?”
“We have both,” said the server.
Savannah grunted her exasperation. “I’ll have an Arnold Palmer.”
“Another iced tea,” said Zander.
When the waiter left, she slid her gaze to his. “I was mistaken about you.”
“Why’s that?”
“You do have a sense of humor.”
“No, actually, I don’t.”
He’s serious?She stared at him, still in disbelief. “Assist me with what?”
“Tilly can’t get here until next week. Her husband has a coffee shop emergency. Something about water everywhere. Since she can’t help you prep for the shoot, she asked me to step in.”
“I’m not following. Why do I need help with prep?”
“The artistic director couldn’t reach you, so she contacted Tilly. They want you to check out potential locationsbeforeshooting begins Tuesday. They’ve emailed you a list.”
Goose bumps erupted on her arms. “Are they pushing back the start date?”
