Page 38 of How to Fall for the Secret Billionaire
“Mm-hmm. Orchard house, just past the back garden.” He points in the direction of his house. “I stay there with my wife, Jo.”
“I’ve met Jo once,” I answer. “She’s really bubbly and funny.”
“Yeah, Jo and I are both bubbly. Makes me wonder where Margot got her strictness from,” he jokes.
“Oh, she’s your daughter?” I gasp.
He laughs heartily. “Yes. Jo is Edie’s older sister.”
I glance down at my plate, suddenly aware that my heart’s thudding a little too loud in my chest.
Margot is his daughter.
I’ve seen Sam around here a few times, and we always stop for a chat, but never did it occur to me that Margot is his daughter. I’m not sure Margot is avoiding me, but it does look like it. After the night we had tea together, it’s been crickets. Whenever we run into each other—which is not often—she’s all smiles and professionalism. But there’s something brewing. I can feel it.
“Edie used to run the place, I’m sure you know that,” Sam said, stacking his empty plates. “My daughter, Margot, just took over. We all want Edie to rest as much as she can.”
Aunt Edie scoffs. “It’s always nice to know when to take a break. Most people wait until their bodies or lives give out first.”
“You say that like you’re actually taking a break,” Sam argues. “Let’s just say Edie’s idea of retirement is showing up every morning and pretending she’s not working. Margot is constantly upset about this.”
As if summoned by the mention of her name, the screen door creaks open. Margot walks out with a small tray and a clean kettle balanced carefully. The scent of cinnamon and cloves trails behind her.
She glances at the group and sets the tray on a side table.
“Hello, Mr. Reid,” she says. “Didn’t know you were out here.”
I believe her. Something tells me if she knew, she would have sent Ana to bring the tea instead of coming herself.
“Hi, Margot,” I smile. “You should sit. Have a cup with us.”
Margot doesn’t even pause. “I don’t have time.”
“You always say that,” Aunt Edie mutters, looking up at her.
Margot slides her a glare before hurrying back into the house, the screen door creaking shut behind her. I watch it swing for a second longer than I should.
Aunt Edie nudges Sam with her elbow. “I know that look.”
Sam frowns. “What look?” He glances between me and Aunt Edie.
“Don’t worry,” Aunt Edie smiles, staring into the distance. “The boy knows exactly what I’m talking about.”
Do I?
MARGOT
Ipush through the front door, my heart thrumming from my encounter with Cal. I didn’t know he was out there with Dad and Aunt Edie, or I’d have sent Ana out with tea.
Ana looks up from the front desk, eyes narrowing. “Are you okay?”
“Yeah. Fine.” I wave her off, trying to look composed even though my pulse is anything but.
She tilts her head. “You sure? You look flushed.”
“Just warm.” I tug off my cardigan, pretending I’m not unraveling. “Did you hear from the florist today?”
Ana shakes her head. “No sign of Delia, but Mr. Avery came down some time ago. Said something’s up with his bathroom. Something about a strange sound when he flushes.”
