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One look at the Duvall estate put things into perspective. Even if they could get past his history with her brother and Fancy, Marc knew without a shadow of a doubt that someone like him would never truly belong in the rarified world of the Duvall family.

“When you find someone who makes butterflies soar in your stomach, that’s something you can’t possibly ignore. If you do, you’re ignoring your destiny.”

Olivia Rawlings

Chapter Six

Charlotte made her way back to Tybee Island after spending an hour at the police department. The officers had treated her very kindly, asking her a few more questions about the events of last night and then showing her a book of mug shots. About halfway through the book, Charlotte had identified a possible suspect, although she really wasn’t certain due to the lengths he’d gone to in order to hide his face. The officers had seemed very satisfied with her ID of the suspect, subtly letting her know that he had a history of similar behavior toward female drivers.

She breathed a sigh of relief the moment Savannah House came into view. Sometimes she just liked to drive slowly past it so she could admire the graceful slope of the inn and the

beautiful surroundings. Still—after all of these weeks and months—she couldn’t wrap her head around Miss Hattie’s inheritance. It was an extraordinary gift.

Charlotte walked the path toward the front entrance, stopping to greet a couple who was honeymooning at the inn. They were holding hands and looking like the quintessential lovebirds as they ventured out for an excursion. They looked so happy, Charlotte thought. And she knew Savannah House was playing a role in their contentment. It felt incredible to be giving their clientele a world-class experience.

As Charlotte entered Savannah House she smiled at the heart-shaped wreath hanging on the door. It added such a romantic vibe to the inn. Once she stepped inside she saw twinkling lights twined around the grand staircase and a roaring fire in the great room. Fancy was in decoration mode once again. She had been putting romantic hearts all over Savannah House in preparation for Valentine’s Day.

How was she going to tell the girls about last night? She didn’t want to worry anyone. And then there was the awkward part about spending time with Marc at Sal’s Diner. It had been a fun time. Charlotte couldn’t deny it, not even to herself. Marc was such a solid force. He was supportive and kind. And brave and caring. He’d given her a strong shoulder to lean on last night. But why was she so nervous to tell her best friends about it? Why did it feel as if it should be a secret?

Because you’re into him. You like him. Really really like him.

She pushed the thought away, not wanting to give it any credence even though she knew it was the absolute truth. She had feelings for Marc, a man she couldn’t be with under any circumstances.

“Charlotte.” Fancy’s voice drew her out of her troubled thoughts.

She felt guilty even looking into Fancy’s eyes. “Hey, Fancy.”

“Is there something you want to tell me?” Fancy asked.

Uh oh. Had she heard about her late night chow fest with Marc? That seemed almost impossible. Unless Marc had swung by here this morning and told the girls about the events of last night. No way. Marc seemed way more discreet than that. Surely he would let her choose the time and place to tell them about the incident last evening.

“Umm. No. I don’t think so.” Feeling tongue tied, Charlotte stumbled with her words.

Fancy narrowed her gaze. “I have a friend on the Savannah Police Department. Patsy Klenck. I called her about the wedding to see if she wanted to bring a plus one and she told me all about the incident last night.” Fancy rushed at her and hugged her. Charlotte could feel the heaving of her shoulders. She knew her friend was crying. Gently, she pushed Fancy away, only to see her tear-streaked face.

“Fancy, I’m all right. It was pretty terrifying in the moment, but I managed to make it through in one piece.”

“Thank the dear Lord for that,” Fancy said. “I didn’t say a word to Case since I figured you’d want to tell your folks and Case at the same time.”

Charlotte groaned. “My parents are going to freak out. They already treat me like I’m fourteen.”

“They love you,” Fancy said. “We all do.”

“I know, but I’m a big girl. I like my independence, especially now.”

Fancy shook her head in agreement. “Gotcha. I know the feeling. So who was the mysterious guy who showed up on the scene? Patsy said there was a guy who drove up and helped out.”

Charlotte bit her lip. She wasn’t about to lie to Fancy. She hesitated for a moment, struggling to come up with the right words. “So, it was Marc. He drove up and basically saved the day as far as I’m concerned.”

Fancy’s jaw dropped. “Wow. I can’t believe it. What a stroke of luck.” A huge grin broke out over her face. “See? I told you he was one of the good guys.”

Charlotte nodded. “I was terribly wrong about him. We actually went to Sal’s Diner after the police finished interviewing me. He really helped me calm down. Then he followed me home in his car to make sure I was safe.” Charlotte felt shy even telling the story to Fancy. Would Fancy see her feelings written all over her face?

“I’m so glad you two are getting to know each other. Now there won’t be any awkwardness when he comes around. Did he say anything about what he discovered in Martha’s Vineyard?”

Charlotte made a face. “A little bit. I believe he’s drawing up a report. Bottom line…there wasn’t anything he discovered to rule out Holloway as a potential heir to Savannah House.”

Fancy’s face blanched. “Oh my goodness. I’ve been praying about this situation and hoping Marc might find a smoking gun.”

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