“Like we had a choice,” Chet said. “Now I know why you were such a hardass on approving the plans. Architects as owners are construction guys’ worst nightmare.”
“And yet you’re back for more.”
Remy smiled. “We ain’t dumb. You may be a pain in the butt, but you paid top dollar and gave us a good recommendation.”
“How come I didn’t know that?” Keely demanded of her cousins.
“Because we keep our mouths shut. No matter what.” Chet’s gaze moved between Keely and Jack.
“So can you. Keely never once mentioned being involved with you on a personal level. She played all coy and secretive about her ‘expert’ help.”
Jack lifted a brow at Keely. “We’ve been discreet, haven’t we, buttercup? Now we’re engaged and there’s no denying I’m a lucky man.” When he attempted to put his arm around her, she flinched. Damn woman could at least pretend his touch didn’t repulse her. Just to be ornery, he jerked her to his side, keeping their bodies touching. “Come on, Keely, no need to act shy. We are with family.” He kissed the top of her head. “It’s sweet how much she really is the blushing-bride type beneath that blustering cowgirl exterior.”
Keely froze, then stiffened with anger.
Jack wondered if he should’ve worn a cup.
Chet addressed Keely. “Aunt Caro is throwing a big bash for you guys, huh?”
“Next weekend. We’d love for you to come, but I’ll warn ya, my brothers will be gunning for you.”
“Why?”
“For keeping the building buying a secret from them.”
“Let the McKays bring it,” Remy said. “We don’t back down for no one. Our word is our bond.”
“Amen, bro.” Chet and Remy bumped fists.
“Speaking of bond…your business paperwork is up to date. If West Construction forged a deal with Keely about specific duties, project costs, potential overruns and a timeframe for each stage, then as far as I’m concerned, we’re good to go on Monday.”
“I sense a but.”
Jack flashed his teeth at Chet. “A couple of minor considerations that don’t have to be addressed today, but I’d like clarification on next week. Deal?”
“Hell yeah it’s a deal.” Remy shook Jack’s hand first, followed by Chet.
“Thank you. One other thing. Would you be interested in replacing the water heater in Keely’s apartment? I never knew how bad it was until I started staying with her.”
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Lorelei James
“Sure. You want us to do it now?”
“If you have time.”
“Follow us to the building supply store. I’m pretty sure Jeb keeps an extra unit around. You’ve got a truck?”
Keely snorted. “Think you can fit it in the trunk of your Beemer?”
“I have Keely’s truck, but the back is filled with electronic equipment.”
“No problem. We’ll pick up the replacement, meetcha at the apartment and help you unload.” Remy lightly punched Keely in the arm. “Got yourself a good one there, K.”
When they were out of earshot, Keely mumbled, “Such suckers for an open wallet.”
“As soon as they’re gone tonight, we will be having a serious discussion about a few things.” Jack dangled her keys, with the rubber ducky key chain, in front of her scowling face. “Give me back my car.”
“Not until you’ve unloaded your shit from my truck.”
Back at the apartment, Chet and Remy hauled up the bulky boxes, insisting on helping Jack mount the TV after they installed the new water heater. By the time they left it was after eight.
Jack heard her settle across from him and crack the top on a bottle—on a bottle of beer he’d bought.
“You said we had to talk. So talk.”
“Give me a second to enjoy my beer before you launch into an argument with me, okay?”
“I don’t always argue with you.”
“Yes, you do.”
“No, I don’t.”
“See?”
Keely blew out an impatient breath. “Sorry.”
He tried to get comfortable on the lopsided couch as he sipped his beer and gathered his thoughts.
Better to jump in feet first than to dip a toe in the water, knowing the shark would bite either way. “Why do you flinch whenever I touch you?”
“Well, duh. I’m not used to you touching me, Jack.”
“Bingo. You need to get used to it.” Jack didn’t break eye contact. “Come over here by me.”
Her flip, “No thanks. I’m perfectly comfortable here,” annoyed the shit out of him.