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“Thanks, ladies.”

“Just promise me something,” Annika said.

“I already told you, I’m not going to hurt her.”

“No, that’s not what I was going to say.”

“Then, what?”

“Don’t do anything crazy.”

I grinned at her. “What would make you think I’d do something crazy?”

“You have the look again.”

“The one that says I’m up to something?”

She nodded. “That’s the one.”

A slow smile spread across my face. She was absolutely right. I was up to something. I was going to ruin things for the helicopter guy and make Marigold mine.

My sister didn’t think I could do it?

Hold my beer, Annika.

CHAPTER 12

Marigold

Sinking into the couch cushions, I let out a long sigh and put my feet up. It had been a long day. A good day. One client after another at the salon was a welcome change. But my feet were paying the price.

I’d already changed out of my clothes into a tank top, pajama pants, and cardigan. Fuzzy slippers, a good book, and a cup of decaf Earl Grey tea completed my evening relaxation ensemble.

Sometimes a night with no plans was just what a girl needed.

Preston was out of town. He was hoping to be back tomorrow and we’d see each other then. I was looking forward to it, idly pondering what I’d wear on our next date. Maybe the red dress I’d bought last year and still hadn’t worn. It had been a splurge, and the fact that it was hanging in my closet with the tags still on was a little bit depressing.

But no more need to be sad about an unworn dress. Not when I had another date to look forward to.

My phone rang and Preston’s name on the screen gave me a little tingle of anticipation.

“Hi.”

“Hi, beautiful. How are you?”

“I’m fine. Work was busy, but that’s a good thing.”

“Excellent. Are you still there or home already?”

“I’m home.”

“Good. Listen, I just got back into town. I’m still at the airport, and I have a few things to take care of, so how about I pick you up for dinner in an hour.”

I paused, feeling the slightest bit flustered, and looked down at my pajamas and slippers. “Tonight?”

“If you need more time, I can try to move the reservation, but they might not have a table.”

He’d already made a reservation? I moved my feet from the coffee table to the floor and set down my tea. “No, an hour is fine. I just wasn’t expecting to see you tonight.”