Page 30 of Here & Now

Smiling at the crowd, he said, “Did everybody sign in?”

Bree rushed up to the group and waved. “I didn’t.”

He turned and locked eyes with her, and his gaze made her toes curl in her flip-flops. “I already checked you in.”

Several pairs of eyes gave her a knowing look, and she wanted to yell, “It’s not what you think! I’m here on official business!” Then he started speaking again, and the passengers shifted their attention back to him.

“Okay. So, before we depart, here’s a quick rundown of the rules.” He glanced down at some small children milling about at the front of the group. “Moms and dads, please keep a close eye on your kids at all times. The boat is equipped with enough life jackets for everyone, and we strongly suggest you put them on your children, though the choice is yours. Also, keep a tight hold on your cameras and cell phones. The water can get a bit choppy, and we don’t want your devices falling overboard. Finally, the boat is equipped with two restrooms for your convenience. Any questions?”

A little boy raised his hand.

“Yes, sir?”

“Are we going to see any dolphins?”

The audience tittered.

“I can almost guarantee it, and a spectacular sunset too.”

The adults smiled appreciatively.

“If that’s all, you can follow me around the building to the dock. Bree, you can come up here with me.”

Her eyes went wide, and he winked at her—winked! If the passengers thought they were a couple before, they were probably sure of it now, thanks to him. She’d planned on blending in with the crowd, but obviously, that wasn’t going to happen.

She came up beside him, and the rest of the passengers fell in line behind them. Leaning in, she whisper-hissed, “That wasn’t necessary. I’m just another passenger.”

He smirked. “I thought you wanted to interview me.”

“I do, but it doesn’t have to be right here and now.”

“You can join me at the helm and ask your questions.”

“Won’t you be too busy piloting the boat?”

“I know these waters like the back of my hand, but it’s up to you. If you’d rather sit with the crowd…”

She glanced back at the noisy group and gave up the fight. “Okay, fine, but stop drawing attention to me.”

He chuckled. “Don’t worry. Once we get going, it’ll just be you and me.”

Her skin sizzled, and it wasn’t because of the sun. Why did I agree to this?

When they reached the dock, she was surprised to see Marco standing there.

Zane turned and addressed the passengers again. “Hey, everybody, this is Marco. He’s going to help you board safely.”

Marco waved to the crowd and smiled, and his white teeth gleamed against his tanned skin. Another charmer, Bree thought as they approached him.

“Bree, it’s nice to see you again.” He offered his hand to help her into the boat.

“I got it,” Zane said and held out his hand too.

She looked at them and shook her head. “Thanks, but I don’t need any help.”

The men exchanged an amused look, and Marco stepped back to let her on board. It was a small step up from the dock, but somehow, her flip-flop got caught on the edge of the boat, and she started to tip forward. Hands reached out from every direction as both men prevented her from falling.

Her face heated as she glanced from one to the other.