Page 35 of Wild Love

I glanced over at him. "You're positive the lodge and the resort are what you want?"

"It was handed to me, but I've never thought about doinganything else. I was a little more carefree before I took over. But I don't miss that life. I prefer the routine, and I thrive in business."

"You're exactly where you're supposed to be."

"I wanted to take over the family business, and my siblings did too. I suspect Killian will retire here one day. Then we'll all be together."

I rested my head back to look at the fluffy white clouds. "I can't imagine living in one place my whole life."

"What about having a home?"

The thought made my chest ache. "I'm never in one place long enough."

"Do you want one?"

"I like traveling to see new places, but living out of a hotel isn't that attractive anymore. You're spoiling me with this condo."

He smirked. "That's the idea. Show you what you're missing."

I laughed. "I think it might be working. I'm starting to question everything I thought I knew about my life."

"You're in between productions?" Eli asked, and I hated to lie to him.

"I was done with the production I was working on and needed a break."

Eli frowned. "Did something happen?"

I thought about what I could say, and I settled for part of the truth. "It wasn't a good situation, and I wasn't happy."

"If something doesn't feel good, you should walk away."

He made it sound so easy. He wouldn't have let himself get into the same predicament. I was so involved in my role and the other cast members; I didn't realize that my boss was circling me, getting closer.

And I had to admit being here, right now, felt good. I was giving myself permission to let go for a bit. To figure out who I was and what I wanted.

9

ELI

Today was the barbecue at the St. Claires'. I'd been at their house a million times before, but I'd never been nervous about a visit. Probably because I never had a secret crush on their daughter before. I just hoped no one noticed.

When I arrived, Pam greeted me with a hug, and I felt guilty about the improper thoughts I was having about her daughter.

"Go put that on the table outside. We have the tent up and the heaters on, so it's not too cold."

October was the last official month for barbecues. We tried to drag the season out as long as we could with tents and heaters. I'd bought them for the St. Claires a few years ago.

Outside, I greeted my brothers, and Chance, placing the veggie tray I'd brought on the table with the other food. Scarlett stood behind the table, fussing over the food, taking off lids, and placing serving spoons inside the bowls.

Scarlett smiled at me. "How nice of you to come, Eli."

"I always come to your family's get-togethers."

Scarlett raised her brow. "Always?"

"You would know if you'd been around for longer than a few days at a time over the years." That came out harsher than how Imeant it. I was irritated that she didn't realize how close our families were. But then again, she hadn't been around to experience it for herself.

"Point taken," Scarlett said lightly.

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