His gut squeezed at the sudden thought she wouldn’t really belong to him anymore. But of course, that was stupid. They were only friends, neighbors, and teacher/student. Ella had never been his in the first place.
He shook off the strange emotions and ruffled Luke’s hair. “Okay, dude. Let’s get to work.”
Ella and Kennedy wished them luck and disappeared into the house.
The supplies had already been delivered and were spread out in the backyard. He’d marked out the ground on his last visit, and the plans had been carefully plotted and confirmed with the proper zoning authorities. He called them over and explained the drawings to Luke, going over safety rules and the jobs he’d be responsible for. The boy listened and took it all seriously, his face etched with excitement for his first official build.
“Luke, the first thing we do when we’re getting ready will set the tone for the day. Know what it is?”
He shook his head. “What?”
Connor shot his brother a knowing look. “Take control of the music before your partner does. If you don’t you’ll end up getting tortured by Mozart or bad country songs. Power up my phone, young man.”
Luke laughed and turned away.
Nate gave him the middle finger.
Yeah. It was going to be a great day.
* * * *
Ella sat at the high counter in the breakfast nook, her gaze sweeping over the house. “I love your place,” she said, taking in the gorgeously designed pieces that made the rooms pop. From the canary yellow rug to the massive red vase filled with exotic dried blooms, her senses were filled with delight. Lush green plants scattered about, the furniture was comfortable, yet elegant, in rich fabrics of velvet, leather, and linen.
The kitchen gave off a cozy, but airy feel with bright white cabinets and polished gleaming tile, paired with a natural wood table and sturdy chairs with Monet-type cushions. “Did you used to study art?” she asked.
Kennedy laughed and leaned against the counter. “Lord, no. But I’m obsessed with beauty in all forms. I love when things come together to please individuals in a visual and spiritual sense.” She wrinkled her nose. “Wow, that sounded pompous.”
“No, I know exactly what you mean! You were the one who put the photographs up in Connor’s place, weren’t you?”
“Guilty as charged. Connor is wonderful but decor is not one of his strong suits. Like most men, I’d have to say.”
“Agreed.”
“Now, let me ask you a question and you promise to give me an honest answer.”
Ella swallowed. Her heart pounded furiously, and she prayed Kennedy didn’t want to ask about her and Connor. About their relationship. She wanted to relax this afternoon and indulge in some girl chatter she’d been sorely lacking. She wanted fun and laughs and gossip, but not about her. “Of course.” She held her breath.
“Do you really want coffee or can I just open up this bottle of wine? It’s five o’clock somewhere.”
Her shoulders slumped in relief. “Yes. No, I can do better than that. Hell, yes!”
Kennedy grinned and grabbed a corkscrew. “I knew I really liked you from the beginning. Are you excited for next week? It’s makeover time.”
She tapped her unpolished nail against the swirling gold granite. “I think. I’m nervous, though. I’ve always been a huge believer in appearances not being important.”
“You sound exactly like Nate. I understand, but I don’t agree. It’s not about making you into someone you’re not. It’s about becoming a better you. Someone you like and can be comfortable with. I believe it’s important to make a strong first impression and give yourself an opportunity to dive deeper. Make sense?”
Ella sighed. “I guess. Arilyn’s counseling session was helpful, but I still have reservations about Luke adjusting to my dating. He’s been so happy lately. I don’t want to wreck anything.”
Kennedy poured the Chardonnay into two glasses and slid one over to her. “I understand completely. But Luke also needs to see you taking care of yourself and being happy. You shouldn’t have to deny that part of yourself in order to be a good mom. It’s been two years, Ella. You’re ready. We already found a fabulous match and Arilyn is working on getting a date set up.”
She sipped her wine and tried hard not to think about Connor. “You’re right. I’m definitely ready, and I’m excited to explore this new chapter.”
Kennedy slid on a stool across from her and lifted her glass. “I know it’s scary, but I promise you, it will be worth it. Sometimes we have to be brave enough to open up to someone new. Break out of our routine. Now, tell me about Connor.”