A Perfect Distraction(8)

“True.” She’d struggled to cope after Emily’s birth and had wanted desperately to withdraw from the social whirl, but Lee had insisted she continue. It had taken a doctor’s intervention to get some respite. “Still, it seems a little sudden.”

“He’s probably one of those people who makes up his mind to do something and wants it done now, now, now.”

“That, I can believe.”

“What’s he after?”

“A house with at least three bedrooms and a large garden.” Maggie explained briefly what she and Jake had discussed. “Honestly, I don’t think he’s thought through what he really wants. So I’d recommend somewhere with the flexibility to adapt to his needs, like adding a home gym.”

“Sounds good.” Tracy winced as she straightened. “I should get on this right away.”

“You’re not up to it.” Maggie shook her head. “No business for a week, remember?”

“That was before I knew Bad Boy wanted to buy a house.”

“He can wait until you’re better.”

“Even if he’s willing to delay, the Ice Cats won’t be happy. This project is a big step up from the ad hoc assignments I’ve done for them and the clock’s ticking. Until Jake signs to say the job’s finished to his satisfaction, Making Your Move won’t get that retainer.” Tracy’s words tumbled over each other as her voice rose in pitch. “I can’t risk them changing their minds. Becoming their sole contractor for player moves for the next five years would make my business financially secure. Everything has to be perfect.”

“I know this project is important, but so is your health. If you rush back to work, your recovery will take even longer.”

“I have no choice. There are plenty of firms willing to take my place. Unless...” Tracy’s expression became pensive. “I know we agreed you’d only do that one meeting, but would you be willing to help me out again?”

Maggie knew what was coming and hated that she couldn’t refuse. Her sister wouldn’t rest with this situation nagging her. “What do you need me to do?”

“Manage Jake. Mimi, my favorite real-estate agent, will help you find suitable properties. Also, check his rental papers to see the penalties for early termination and...”

Panic fluttered in her chest at Tracy’s list of instructions. It was too much. She couldn’t be responsible for all that. “I can’t. I have no experience.” Lee’s sneering voice echoed in her head. You’re useless. “I’ll make a mistake and blow it for you.”

“Rubbish!” Her sister smacked the bed. “I hate what that bastard did to you. Bad enough that he controlled every aspect of your life like a modern-day Svengali. His belittling jibes did as much damage as his fists.” Her sister softened her tone. “You’re a smart, capable woman. You can do this and much more.”

Tracy forced Maggie to meet her gaze. “Look what you’ve achieved in the past few months. When I fell ill, you moved over here, found a summer activity camp for Emily and sorted out a school for the fall. To say nothing of what you’ve done for me at work.”

“But I might make a mess of things and cost you the business.”

“You won’t. Besides, I’ll be right here overseeing everything.” Tracy’s smile was wry. “Even if you won’t let me use my laptop, I can listen and advise.”

This was supposed to be Maggie’s fresh start. She’d vowed Emily would never see her as weak and pathetic again. Just because things weren’t going smoothly didn’t mean she should give up. She owed it to herself to see what she was capable of.

With her sister nearby, what could go wrong? “It’s only for the week?”

Tracy nodded eagerly. “Most of the work can be done by phone or email. You probably won’t have to see Jake more than once.”

See Jake again? Maggie’s pulse gave a funny little lurch. It had been one thing to dismiss her reaction to him when she’d thought she wouldn’t see him again. Quite another to test her resolve not to be affected by another meeting with him.

Her sister continued, “Then you can return to taking care of the admin, like we agreed. I prom—” She made a wry face. “No promises?”

A smile slipped out. “Okay. I’ll do my best.”

“Thanks.” Tracy settled against the pillows. “So, is Bad Boy as sexy in person?”

“He’s nice,” Maggie hedged, cursing the heat that filled her cheeks. “Polite, charming.”

“You fancied him, I can tell.”