Page 33 of The Enemy Plot

But as soon as our gazes cross, his scowl dissolves, and that sends my heart on a bungee jump. Having the power to make Deacon’s frown vanish with a simple look is like witnessing a rainbow after a heavy rain or stumbling upon a hidden treasure. There’s nothing better in the world. Except maybe adding a smile on that face.

“Hi,” I say, walking closer. “You wanted to see me?”

“Yeah, um.” He clears his throat, and for a second, I wonder if he’s nervous. He wipes his hands on his pants and swallows hard. “I wanted to ask if you’d come with me and Lola to New Hampshire for a few days.”

My heart leaps. Is Deacon seriously asking me to go on a trip with him? Well, him and Lola, but still. Just when I thought he might take a small step and ask me out, he takes a giant stride. “Is that where you’re from?” I ask. In other words, Is that where that sexy accent comes from?

“Yeah.” He sways on his feet. “I think it’ll do us some good, but Lola won’t agree unless you’re in.”

My heart falls to my shoes, and I cross my arms. This has nothing to do with me and everything to do with Lola. “Oh, so you need another favor.”

“I guess,” he says, scratching his head. “I’m a lost cause.”

A smile escapes me.

“I’m sorry to ask, and I know you have work and your life, but—”

“I’ll come,” I say before I can think twice. Lola needs someone to help her navigate life after losing her mom, and I’m proud to fill that role. I know how important it is, having someone who understands. The opportunity to go away with Deacon has nothing to do with it. Plus, I need to see if every man in New Hampshire boasts that delicious accent.

“Really?” he breathes out, clearly relieved.

“Sure. When are we going? For how long?” I ask, remembering I have to clear this with my friends. Hayley is on the road with Maxime any chance she gets, and I don’t want everything to fall on Emma.

“I was thinking we could leave tomorrow. And I don’t know—until the weekend? I’d have to see what’s available in terms of rentals.”

I glance at Emma on my left, and she nods, giving me a thumbs-up. Of course she was listening in on our conversation. I offer her a grateful smile. “Sounds good. Let me know, and I’ll start packing.”

“Great. Thank you, Frenchie. Pack casual,” he says, glancing down at my outfit—a cute white-and-blue polka dot dress.

“Thisiscasual.” I frown.

A small laugh escapes him, and my body flushes. “It’s more of a nature trip. We’ll go hiking, fishing, camping, that sort of thing.”

My eyes widen into two large saucepans. “Oh.”

He winces, shoving a hand in his back pocket. “Kind of forgot that small detail.”

I chuckle. “Don’t worry, it’s fine.” I’m not one to back down on my word, even if Deacon just said three “-ing” words I pretty much hate. I’m more a reading, snuggling, and lounging kind of gal. But the fact that Deacon will be part of those activities makes them just a little more appealing. And Lola.Of course.I love that sweet child.

“Okay.” He nods, a smile teasing at his lips. “Well,thanks.”

“Bye.” I wave.

As soon as he’s out of the store, Emma hurries to my side. “Are you seriously going on a hiking trip with Deacon?” she asks, arching an eyebrow.

“And Lola.”

“Right.” She rolls her eyes. “‘Causethat’sthe reason you’re going.”

“Shut up,” I scoff.

“Well, I’d tell you to be careful, that it could be a thriller situation and all that, but I don’t think I have to worry. You’re in good hands. Sure, the guy is a little gruff, but he doesn’t seem that bad.”

I lift my eyebrows. “Wow, he passed the Emma character appraisal. I’m shocked.”

She gives me a smirk. “He did, but I might be biased. We grumps tend to stick together.”

That makes me laugh. Emma and Deacon do have a bit in common. I wonder if, like Emma, he’s a totally different person once you get to know him. I guess I’ll find out soon enough . . .on a hiking trip. Gosh, what have I gotten myself into? And more importantly, what am I going to wear? My entire wardrobe is made up of dresses and skirts, not exactly forest-friendly attire.

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