Page 29 of Unexpected Entanglement

His eyes had taken in every detail of the buildings, down to the crown molding. He’d touched the quilts and spread his hand over the pillowcase in the other room she’d made up. He’d smelled the soap and other toiletries she’d formulated for the inn. But she didn’t fault him for that. She’d do the same. That was why she put a lot of thought into each room.

Though Chris didn’t make a comment during the tour, Rowan knew he had thoughts about everything. She could imagine what he had to say.

“Well, you got your tour,” Rowan said to Chris when the party of three looked up at her entrance. “What do you think? You’ve been awfully mum all morning.”

“I didn’t want to intrude into your meeting.” Chris flashed an innocent smile. “You have something great here. I think you’ve done a beautiful job renovating this house. And adding the new cottages is a brilliant move.”

Rowan frowned, not believing what she was hearing.

Is he pulling my leg?

“He’s saying he likes the place. Look a little happy.” Alex poked her on the shoulder.

“Bright Head isn’t like any of your resorts,” Rowan replied, still not believing Chris’ compliment. She’d looked up Chris’ The Eve Resorts. They were the picture of subtle luxury. Nothing was ostentatious, but everything about them echoed the comfort that came with money. Something the Bright Head didn’t have. She provided a comforting, homey feel in quality, but she couldn’t compete with The Eve.

“It isn’t, nor does it need to be. It is perfect for its location and offers cozy comfort, New England beauty, summer fun, and good food. I can think of a few other things you can offer.” Chris sat back, relaxed, still smiling at her, challenging her to rebut him further.

Rowan found she sometimes wanted to wipe the constant smile on his too-perfect face, even after they had their truce. But she didn’t have an argument.

“Thanks,” she tried being gracious instead. “What other things are you thinking?”

“Add-on services that people on vacation like—massages, body treatments. You have the honeymoon cottages, and honeymooners love their couple massages. You can start with that and expand to offering a whole spa experience when you can.”

“I have a plan for a spa and health classes like yoga,” Rowan said.

“You do?”

“The budget is tied up at the moment.”

“I see.” Chris’ brow furrowed slightly. “You could still offer yoga classes on the lawn. Is there a yoga studio in town you could have a special arrangement with?”

“Already on it. I’ve also negotiated a deal with a couple of massage therapists.” Rowan had done all this last summer inthe anticipation of opening the inn’s doors this spring. But life happened. No. Death happened. And everything came crashing down.

“I have other things to worry about before I think further about these extra services,” she said. “Though I’d love to open the inn officially this year as we planned, I just don’t see it happening.”

Chris didn’t disagree with her.

“Lucky us, we have an expert right here!” Alex chimed in brightly and patted Chris on the shoulder heartily. “Who knows more about opening a hotel than our man here?”

Alex turned her gaze to Rowan with an earnest face. “Take advantage of his experience. Pick his brain while he’s here.” Then she turned back to Chris. “You don’t mind, do you?”

“Not at all.” Chris gave a brief shake of his head.

“I still don’t know what has brought you to us, Chris. But you’re exactly what Rowan needs: a mentor,” Alex claimed.

Oliver studied Rowan with a calm smile and commented, “I feel a resistance in your vibe, Ro. What is it you oppose?”

Rowan’s lips parted in surprise. Oliver’s observation was spot-on, but the way he’d asked it—without judgment or accusation—made her stumble.

“Uh… I don’t,” she finally replied.

“Good!” Alex pounced and jumped up. She pulled Chris up and grabbed Rowan with her other hand. “Then what are you waiting for? Get working.

“O and I need to work on the food stuff. You guys do your hotel stuff,” Alex ordered. But before she let the door swung back shut, Alex winked at them. “I have a good feeling about you two.”

Rowan stared at the swinging door. “What the hell just happened?”

Chris just chuckled as he shrugged his shoulders. “So, what’s next, Boss?”

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