Page 50 of Here With You

Miles wanted to laugh. Eventually, he’d have to tell her the truth. “I’ve got a few nickels saved up.”

Cormac pointed to the bags. “Those cost a pretty penny, and Tiffany said to say thanks. Because of your order, she can pay the rent this month on the shop.”

“How much candy did you buy and why? We never put candy in the rooms.”

“I know I should have consulted you first, but after Diane got nipped because of me, I thought it might be a nice gesture, and if it was a nice gesture for her, then it was probably a nice move for all the guests in both resorts.”

“You bought boxes of chocolates for all the guests? Including those staying at The Brown?”

He shrugged. “I didn’t want you to think I was competing with you. If you don’t think it’s a good idea, then fine, but I think it could be that little extra that makes a difference. These aren’t just any chocolates. They’re custom confections from Sweet On You. It’s a win-win for Tiffany and us.”

“They couldn’t have been cheap. I’ll pay you back for the purchase.” She rose and pulled a checkbook from a nearby drawer. “How much do I owe you?”

“Nothing. I got it.”

“Miles, you don’t have a job.”

“I do have a job and a place to live. Carter and Brie are paying me well for taking care of things.”

“He has to have some money. He came here looking to buy the place.” Cormac laughed. “Silly Uncle Miles didn’t realize it would be in the millions.”

He sat back and let his nephew laugh at his expense. Ultimately, the laugh would be on them because he could buy two Kessler resorts and still have money left over. He’d looked up its value and found it estimated at around eight million if it was in pristine condition, which it wasn’t.

Emmaline took his hand. “I love that you thought you could.”

“Anything is possible if your heart is in it.”

“I’d like to help with the candy,” she said.

He decided to use Cormac’s line. “I’d be honored if you’d let me pay.”

She giggled. “You win.”

“Speaking of honored … Grandma would like you both to come to the ranch tonight for dinner if you can get away. She’s making your favorite cornbread casserole, southern fried chicken, and collard greens.”

“She invited me too?” Emmaline asked.

“Yes, she specifically said to include you.” He rose from his chair. “Do you know where I can find my dad?”

“Last time I looked, he was drinking a beer in The Kessler boathouse.”

“Do you mind if I go inside there to check it out?” Cormac walked toward the door.

“Have at it.”

“Can I tell Grams to expect you?”

Emmaline nodded. “We’ll be there.”

Cormac left, and Miles looked at Emmaline when she returned from the door. “That was easy.”

“Contrary to rumors, I’m not always difficult to deal with. Your mother is sick, and if she wants us to come to dinner nightly, then we’ll be there.”

“We will?”

“Remember your rule?”

“What rule is that?”

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