Page 84 of Evidence of Secrets

The only other business item was going on social media to let diners know the bistro would be closed for renovation. She had already talked to Grace, and Grace had written up a piece to put in the paper.

“What did you think of Jaimie’s story?”

Hank thought for a moment. “Interesting. I’m not sure I like that she was undercover, but it’s a great article.”

Laura grimaced. “Yeah. I hear you.” She took a sip of wine and placed her glass on top. “I’m beyond happy to learn I have a half-sister. I like Jaimie and can’t wait to get to know her better.”

“What’s she going to do now that she’s out of the hospital?”

“The doctor said she sprained, not broke, her ankle. She’ll stay in town until her ankle feels better, and then she’ll go to the other restaurants she picked to write about.”

“Is she coming back?” asked Hank.

Laura squinted her eyes. “Oh, right. You went for coffee when we talked about that. Yes. She likes Black Pointe and has no family elsewhere.”

“Lucky you.” Hank rubbed his hands down his pants. “Laura.” He cleared his throat and started again.

Hank looked so nervous. Laura was concerned. Did he want to break up with her? Take a break from her because her life was so messed up?

“Sweetheart, I’d love it if you would move in with me.”

Move in? Laura felt light-headed. Her heart was fluttering. Move in? She wet her lips. “Hank, I’d love to move in with you.”

Silence.

“Whew. That was easy,” he said with a smile. He raised his wineglass. “To my new roommate. With benefits.”

Laura laughed. They clinked glasses, and Hank leaned over to kiss her cheek.

Laura sat back in the chair and sighed. “It’s so beautiful out here.”

“Not as beautiful as you.” Hank kissed her neck and pulled her up. “I need you.” His eyes were a gray blue like the water. “I can’t tell you how scared I was when Ryan pointed the gun at you. I was afraid I’d lose you.” He kissed her cheek. “I want to make love to you.”

Laura nodded and smiled. She followed Hank into the bedroom. The last thing she remembered after two orgasms was Hank asking her to marry him.

CHAPTERSIXTY

Laura was having the most sensual of dreams and snuggled into the warmth. It moaned. Moaned?

She opened her eyes to stare into blue eyes the color of morning.

“Hey.” Hank smiled and kissed her forehead. “Good morning, sweetheart.”

“Morning.” She yawned. “How early is it?”

Didn’t they just get to sleep?

Hank looked confused. “It’s only eight o’clock. Why?”

“Oh, you usually get up around five.”

“Didn’t feel like it. I enjoy watching you sleep,” he said.

“Hmmm.” Laura searched her mind for a comment that Hank made last night. What was the last thing he asked before she screamed his name the second time?

“You asked me to marry you.”

Hank nodded and grinned. “I did.”

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