Page 32 of Tangled Trust

"So, tell me more about Carter."

"He’s lovely. And the way he adores Jagger is very sweet."

"Uh-oh."

"What?"

"You forget I’ve known you for a very long time. I know that look," Anna grins like the Cheshire cat.

"Oh, nonsense. He’s my boss. All I’m saying is he’s a nice man, and that makes my job a lot easier."

"I’ll give you my verdict when I see a photo of the ‘nice Carter’, okay?"

"I think you’ve had enough wine, you troublemaker."

"I can drink you under the table, Ma’am. But, tonight, you may be right. This jet lag thing is too real."

"I think I’d better tuck you in. We’ll resume our differences in the morning."

"Nicely sidestepped, Doctor," Anna winks.

"Sleep well, my friend. So happy you’re here," I say and hug her.

"Good to be here. Don’t let me sleep the day away. I want to see the beach tomorrow."

"You’re in luck. The forecast is for sun, sun, and more sun."

"Don’t you just love California?"

"No conversion is needed here, sister. You’re preaching to the choir."

* * *

It’s a beautiful morning, and the sun is doing its best to show off for Anna.

"I could spend the whole day out here," she purrs.

We’re on the private beach, on a picnic blanket, enjoying sandwiches and wine.

"I’m sorry to see the last days of summer. It’s been glorious."

"I can’t believe you have access to a private beach. It’s so over the top."

"I know," I say with a superior grin, which makes Anna laugh.

"I’m yet to see a photo of my temporary benefactor."

"I snuck one out," I say, and I retrieve it from the bag.

"You’re having me on. This is Carter Moore."

"The very same."

"I’m sorry, but we can’t be friends anymore."

"Oh, stop it."

"I’m serious. Now, whenever you call, I’ll be pissed imagining you spending time with this beautiful man."

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