Page 21 of Three Reckless Words

It’s starting to feel familiar.

“Look, I hate to do this, Archer,” I say. Really, I don’t, when the alternative is worse. “But this is none of your freaking business, okay? It’s personal. I’ll worry about my trouble, and you worry about yours, making money hand over fist with these fancy cabins or whatever else you do.”

His scowl says he totally doesn’t believe a word I say.

Ouch.

“Dude, if my dad keeps calling, just block him. Is that so hard? He’s a big important guy, kinda used to getting his own way. He won’t like it but he can’t do much more than complain.”

Understatement of the century.

As I read Archer’s face, I regret my words.

Is he a younger clone of my father? He’s big and successful and important enough to own these beautiful places. Then again, I doubt he’s ever been elected to state office, whichmightkeep his ego in check a little.

Trust me, I know. Nothing turns people into raging entitled monsters like a whiff of political power.

Archer shifts, folding his arms and holding my gaze like he’s expecting me to back down. But I’m no stranger to intimidation and I’ve hit my limit.

This big gruff evil eye business isn’t changing my mind.

“Fine,” he snarls at last, his voice grating with annoyance. This must be costing him—but I don’t care as long as he gives me some peace. “As I said, it’s corporate policy to respect your privacy as long as you’re not breaking the law.”

“Justcompany policy?” I raise an eyebrow.

I swear his teeth snap together so hard he might’ve cracked a molar.

“And mine, personally,” he growls. “I don’t get off on prying. Normally, I’d be too busy to give one shit about your secrets, lady.”

Ouch again.

“Sounds good. Personal integrity matters,” I force out.

“Yeah, we agree. That’s why, if you won’t tell me what’s going on, I’m afraid I can’t guarantee you a longer stay than what you’ve booked.”

“What? You just said you cared about my privacy!” My heart tries to leap out of my chest.

“I’m afraid it’s a bit personal. Higher Ends has had its share of troubles the last couple years. Real, criminal issues that would probably make yours look like a cakewalk,” he says, and he makes it sound soreasonablethat I want to scream. “This property has a lot of interest as one of our newest and best offerings. I’d be a fool to risk that on a handshake agreement.”

I step back. The dread burning in the pit of my stomach flares into anger at this corporate beast who thinks he’s too good for my money.

“Excuse me?”

“I know this is disappointing, however—”

“First of all, hold the bullshit,” I snap.

He steps back like he’s not used to someone speaking over him.

Actually, given the way he reacted last night when he picked up the kids, I don’t think he’s used to people making his life difficult.

And is he using the same voice on me he used with the kids?

Well, sorry, Mr. Archer Man.

I don’t believe in being talked down to like I’m one of your son’s teenage friends.

“This might be a popular place, but does that mean you’re going to be charging other people more than you’re charging me?”

---