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“All I’m saying is—maybe you and Luci are meant for each other, and this month would be the chance to find out.”

“I can’t do it. Not to Jack.”

“Has it ever occurred to you he might be delighted? She could do worse than you, my friend.”

“Is that true? I don’t feel like that much of a catch.”

“You’re brilliant and talented. The nicest guy in the world.”

“That’s you,” I said.

“Okay, the second nicest guy in the world. You’re rich, so you can take care of her. Maybe pay off that school debt of hers.”

“How do you know about that?”

“She mentioned it to Blake, who mentioned it to me,” Beck said.

“There won’t be one darn secret left by the time we get out of here.”

“Maybe not. But think about it, okay? You deserve to be happy instead of living like a drumming monk.”

“Monks don’t drum.”

“Untrue. Korea had Buddhist monks literally known as drumming monks.”

I stared at him. “How do you know that?”

“I read. A lot.”

“God, you’re the biggest geek ever.”

Beck grinned. “I know. Isn’t it awesome?”

“Or annoying, depending.”

“I’m just saying, think about it. Promise me you will?” Beck asked.

Before I had to lie and tell him I would, Thad Moon came by to tell us it was time to head back to the ranch.

Supper that evening was a delicious smokey ham and scalloped potatoes. Once again, I was seated next to Luci. She was quiet for most of the meal, smiling politely and answering when spoken to, but I could feel a sadness emanating from her.

Some of our group wandered out to the fire pit after supper, but Luci headed toward her cabin. I followed her, wanting to tell her I’d taken care of her family for The Giving Tree. When we’d returned that afternoon, I’d ordered everything online and had it sent to the organizer. It had felt good to do something for others, and I was excited to let Luci know she could take the task off her plate.

I caught up to her just as she reached her cabin.

“Hey, Luci,” I called out to her.

She turned, stopping near her door. “What’s up?”

“Are you turning in for the evening?” I asked, stopping at the bottom of her porch stairs.

“Yes. I’m not feeling the bar or fire pit tonight,” Luci said.

“Are you doing okay? You were quiet at dinner.”

“A little tired.”

“Got it. Me too.” I stuffed my hands into the pockets of my jacket. “I wanted to let you know—I took care of your family. The Giving Tree one, that is. So don’t worry about that.”