Package Deal(84)

“Time to mingle. I’ll see you later, Marc.”

Ian joined his wife near the group that had gathered around Evan, where he held forth on something that caused a ripple of laughter. More women than men.

Marcus wandered over to Amanda. “Having fun?” He touched her hand.

She smiled at him. “It’s a nice gathering, and Evan seems to have won everyone over.”

Marcus was already tired of hearing about him. “Hmm.” He wished she had worn something less complimentary. Her red silk dress clung to her curves, bringing out the auburn highlights in her hair.

Amanda looked at him. “You don’t look happy. Is something wrong?”

“No. Have you figured out when I can come over so we can talk to Cecelia?”

“She’s been extra busy with soccer and getting ready for school.” She placed a hand on Marcus’ sleeve. “She’s going camping with the Scouts in a week or so. Perhaps when she comes back from that trip.”

“Want to come over to my house while she’s gone?” he asked, hope in his heart, in his voice.

She shook her head. “I’m not sure. I’m doing my best to catch up with some of the writing I never got around to after Cece’s accident. And, I’ve arranged to help with the camping trip—cooking and that sort of thing. I’m supposed to call Louise to coordinate the food. She’s on my committee.”

“Oh.” She doesn’t want Cecelia out of her sight. Time for Plan B. “What about this weekend? I found some rough spots in my last edit and wanted to go over them with you—before I send it back to the publisher.”

“I wish I could.” She sighed. “Greg asked me if I would show Evan around. The only time I have to do that is this Saturday. But if I can get away, I’ll call you.” She reached up and brushed his hair off his forehead when he looked down at her. “I’d rather be with you, but I promised Greg.”

“Hmm.” He nodded and noticed Evan watching them.

She touched his arm and waited for him to turn back in her direction. “Marcus. You’re not yourself tonight. What is it?”

“I’m just disappointed you don’t seem to have time for me, for us.”

“Don’t be. We’ll have time—especially after we talk to Cecelia.”

Plan C. “Right. Want to ditch this place early? I know a great porch swing with more privacy.”

“I was hoping we could do that, but Cece wasn’t feeling well this afternoon, and I promised her I wouldn’t be gone long. I’m not sure it’s a good idea for me to come over tonight.”

Evan sauntered over to Amanda. “Nice to see you, Marcus, old man.” He grinned and reached for her hand. “Come on, Amanda, one more dance before they close things down.”

She stopped him with a hand on his arm. “I’m sorry, Evan. I can’t. I really have to get home. But thanks for asking.”

Evan leaned down and kissed Amanda’s cheek before releasing her. Marcus frowned. The man’s office had to be just down the hall from Amanda’s.

As he drove home, he muttered to himself between gritted teeth. “I hope you hate that man, Cecelia,” angry at himself for not sticking around to see what else Evan might try.



Saturday dawned clear and cool. The mountains across the bay looked close enough to touch when Evan drove up to Amanda’s house. When he rang the doorbell, she waited a moment before she opened the door.Cecelia stood behind her.

“Come in, Evan. Let me get my sweater.” Amanda turned to Cecelia. “Janet will be here in a minute. She agreed to take you and Skipper to the dog park, but I don’t want you to stay too long.I’ll call you if I’m later than a couple of hours.”

Cecelia nodded and looked up at the very tall man. He smiled at her and then leaned over to pet Skipper, who growled and backed away from him.

“Skipper, that’s not nice.” Cecelia placed her hand on the dog’s back.

He whined in response, his short tail wagging spasmodically before heading for the back door when Janet knocked.

Amanda bent down to her daughter. “Give me a kiss, Cece.”

She did so, and headed in Janet’s direction.

“I’ll be home soon. Have fun at the park.” She turned to Evan. “We can go now, but I need to watch the time.”

“You’re the boss.”



Evan drove slowly around town, following Amanda’s instructions. She pointed out different landmarks and then directed him toward the marina where the boats were tied.

“You’ll like the dinners here. Their seafood is the best—much nicer than what we used to get in Iowa.”