Text copyright ©2016 by the Author.

This work was made possible by a special license through the Kindle Worlds publishing program and has not necessarily been reviewed by Marina Adair. All characters, scenes, events, plots and related elements appearing in the original St. Helena Vineyard Series remain the exclusive copyrighted and/or trademarked property of Marina Adair, or their affiliates or licensors.

For more information on Kindle Worlds: http://www.amazon.com/kindleworlds

Dear Readers,

Welcome to the St. Helena Vineyard’s Kindle World, where romance is waiting to be uncorked

and authors from around the globe are invited to share their own stories of love and happily ever

after. Set in the heart of wine country, this quaint town and its cast of quirky characters were the

inspiration behind my St Helena Vineyard series, and the Hallmark Channel movie, AUTUMN

IN THE VINEYARD. I want to thank these incredible authors for spending time in St. Helena,

and all of you readers who are adventurous enough to take the journey with us.

I hope you enjoy your time here as much as we have.

Warmly,

Marina Adair

Where I Belong

~ St. Helena Vineyard Series ~
~ Marina Adair Kindle Words ~

Rafe & Eva

Follow Jill online at:

Jill@JillSanders.com

Web: http://JillSanders.com

Twitter: @JillMSanders

Facebook: JillSandersBooks

Sign up for Jill’s Newsletter @ JillSanders.com

Summary

Life it seems is hell-bent on crushing Eva Chapman. Starting with the tragic loss of her brother, for which she is solely to blame, to the unfortunate turn of events that have landed her where she is now; on her knees, hiding behind the counter at a hole-in-the-wall bookstore, in wine-country of all places, with local police in hot pursuit. This was not the life she'd imagined for herself. And no amount of imagination or self-destructive behavior could ease this pain. Running is all she has now.

Fresh out grad-school, psych-degree in hand, and here he is manning the local coffee-shop/bookstore in his hometown of St. Helena. Rafe had never felt more a-drift and confused. The truth is, he'd never really thought this far ahead, and until sis returns from her post-2nd-divorce-meltdown-vacation this will have to do, that is, if he can survive the boredom. He did kind of enjoy the relaxing tourist vibe and routine flux of interesting local eccentrics in and out the shop every day, but it was the gorgeous hot mess that just dove over his counter that really caught his attention!

Where I Belong

by

Jill Sanders

Chapter One

There was little Eva hated more than perfectly pampered people walking around like they owned the world. Especially ones that looked down their nose at her as she walked by them on the street.

Sure, she probably deserved the looks. After all, she was down to her last “good” pair of jeans. The ones with the holes in the knees and thighs. Okay, so the style was still in, but apparently not in St. Helena.

No, here the style ranged from upscale to upper scale. Something to which Eva had never really gotten accustomed. Actually, she’d been experiencing a whole new world since arriving in town three days ago from LA.

She shifted her backpack on her shoulder and continued walking down the main street towards the small grocery store. When she noticed the place was crawling with people, she shifted her direction and crossed the street instead as her stomach knotted.

It was hard to swipe breakfast when there were too many eyes. Taking a deep breath, she rolled her shoulders and thought of how she could kill some time until rush hour was over at Picker’s Produce.

God, could the town get any more wholesome, she thought as she walked by a day spa and bistro. She stopped for a moment to admire the animals in the front window of the local shelter and gave herself a moment to dream of one day owning a small dog like the little tan and white one in the window.

She’d have a home along the water somewhere. Maybe in Oregon? She’d always loved traveling through the green rolling hills there. The beaches were cold and grey, just the way she liked them. She thought of the last day she’d spent on the beach. It had been over ninety degrees and she’d ended up peeling off her jeans and hoodie. Just so she could wade into the cool water in just the boxer shorts and sports bra she’d been wearing.

Okay, so it had been forever since she’d shopped at Victoria’s Secret. But, considering her life in the past year, she’d been lucky to have what she had at all.

Hell, the fact that her backpack was heavier than ever—she counted herself one very lucky lady. She smiled slightly as she thought of the contents. Everything she owned was there, on her back. Ready to hightail it if she had to.

She’d spent too much time admiring the tan puppy, watching it play and lick the glass window, that she hadn’t noticed the man staring at her from across the street. That was until the familiar tingle moved up her spin.

Without moving her head, her eyes caught his reflection in the glass and she froze. Her breath caught in her lungs as her entire body started to shake. Her fingers clinched the strap of her bag tighter.

Taking two deep breaths, she assessed everything about him. Slowly taking her time as her eyes ran over the dark uniform and the shiny badge that sat on his chest.

If she’d been a different person, she would have thought that the man was handsome. Hell, maybe even drop-dead gorgeous. But, she was...well, who she was...and he was who he was. A cop.

A cop, who was leaning against his patrol car, and eyes focused solely on her.

Her mind screamed for her to run. Her body, on the other hand, refused to obey the commands. Her nails dug into the rough material of her backpack’s strap and her mind rushed through so many scenarios she was almost dizzy.

She watched in horror as he slowly leaned up, unfolded his arms that were crossed over his chest, and started making his way from his patrol car across the street towards her.

Only then did her body actually react. Before she could think, she rushed into the closest doorway and jumped, head first, behind the tall countertop.

Leaning against the back of what appeared to be a bar, she closed her eyes and took several deep breaths as her heartbeats raced loudly in her head.

Think, she told herself. What in the hell was she going to do? Why was the cop interested in her? What the hell was she going to do?

She sighed when she realized she was repeating herself. She hated repeating herself, making the same mistakes. A memory threatened to surface from her past, but she swallowed hard and forced it back to the black hole in her mind.

She listened intently for a few moments for the sound of the small bell that had chimed over the door when she’d rushed into the place. If the cop followed her, she needed an exit strategy.

Quickly opening her eyes, she held in a scream when she saw a pair of sexy brown eyes staring back at her.

“Can I help you?”

His voice was even sexy. Damn! Why the hell was she thinking every man was hot all of a sudden? Maybe she was undersexed. Okay, yes, she was definitely undersexed. It had been over a whole year since she’d gotten any play. After all, spending a year on the run didn’t really make for any relationship opportunities.

“Um.” She swallowed again and blinked a few times. “Water?” She faked a cough and leaned back against the cool wood of the bar.

“Sure.” He chuckled, then looked up when the bell chimed over the door, signaling that someone had walked in.

She tensed and shut her eyes once more. Counting the heartbeats.

“Hey, Joe,” the man with sexy brown eyes said casually.

“Hey, Rafe.” From her position, she guessed it was the sexy cop. “The darndest thing just happened,” the cop said.

She could hear him moving closer to the bar and so she scrunched up her legs and tucked her body into a small ball.

“I was just working up the nerve to...” The man sighed. “Did you see...” Again he sighed loudly. “Well...” She heard him chuckle. “I guess, never mind.”

“You okay?” sexy brown eyes asked, leaning over the counter slightly, until his knees brushed against hers. She held in a gasp and tried to tuck her body closer into a ball.

“Yeah,” came the reply. “Guess I’ll have a cup of Joe to go. We’ve had a few break-ins on the outskirts of town.”

“Oh?” brown eyes said as he moved around the small area to get the cop his coffee. “Anything serious?”

“Nah. It’s probably just some kids. You might want to check on that cabin of yours though. You know, make sure everything’s still locked up.”

“Will do.” She watched brown eyes hand over a steaming hot cup of coffee, and held her stomach, afraid the low growling would give her hiding place away.

“See you around,” the cop said, and Eva relaxed slightly when she heard the bell chime again, signaling he’d left.

“Now,” brown eyes said, leaning slightly towards her, “do you want to tell me what that was all about?”

She raised her chin slightly and shook her head, her eyes burning into his. “No.” She started to get up, but before she could manage it, strong hands were gripping her waist and hoisting her up until she stood close to him. Too close to him.

She could see small gold flecks in those sexy brown eyes of his. She could even smell the sweet scent of coffee mixed with a sexy spicy scent he wore.

Just then her body responded by letting out a loud growl. Rolling her eyes, she dropped her hands away from his shoulders, where they had migrated to when he’d helped her up. When she tried to take a step backwards, her butt came up against the edge of the bar.

Brown eyes smiled slightly at her move.

“Going somewhere, hellcat?” he asked, jokingly.

“Do you mind?” she said as she narrowed her eyes.

“Absolutely.” He nodded, then crossed his arms over his chest, while holding his ground. “It’s not often that someone runs into my place, jumps the counter, and hides out from the local...PD.”

She felt all the blood leave her face. “I... I wasn’t...”

His dark eyebrows rose slowly, challenging her to deny his statement.

“He’s an old boyfriend.” The lie was out before she had time to think it through. “He was abusive and” —she faked a little cry— “I just had to escape.”

When she looked again, his brown eyes were narrowed and assessing her.

“Right,” he said, taking a step back, just as her stomach growled loudly again. “How about a cup of coffee and a sandwich?” He nodded towards the large glass display a few feet away. There were several prewrapped sandwiches under the bright lights in the refrigerated case. They looked absolutely amazing and her stomach responded painfully.

“I...” She sighed. “He took my purse.” She glanced back towards the main windows at the empty spot where the cop car used to be.

Brown eyes sighed. “It’s on the house.” He leaned closer. “This time.”

She felt her shoulders relax slightly and was almost dizzy with relief. She wasn’t going to have to steal her food today after all. Just lie for it.

***

Rafe sat across the high bar top and watched the sexy brunette wolf down the sandwich in only a few bites. Her coffee was untouched, but the bottle of water he’d set in front of her was already half empty. His nickname for her didn’t begin to describe the fight he’d seen in her eyes.

He could tell—the woman would be a hellcat if messed with.

He’d been stuck behind the counter of his sister’s coffee shop in St. Helena for the past week, all thanks to Cindy. She’d called him two weeks ago and dropped the bomb that she was getting a divorce. Her second one in less than two years.

She’d begged him to come take over the shop while she took a break. He’d instantly thought of her staying at home, tucked under a thick blanket while emptying container after container of ice cream. Much like she’d done after she’d caught her first husband, Keith, cheating on her with Nora, her best friend from grade school.

Instead, she’d had her bags packed when he arrived, and had kissed him on the cheek, handed him the shop’s keys, and left for a month-long trip to Alaska.

Naturally, he’d been bound to his agreement to watch the place, so he’d opened the coffee shop slash bookstore early every morning to receive the deliveries and to sit behind the counter waiting on customer after customer. Most of whom, he’d known all of his life.

“So,” he said, watching the woman across from him swallow the last of the turkey sandwich. She washed it down with the last of the bottled water. “I’m Rafe.” He waited, his eyebrows going up slightly.

“Candy,” she said, her eyes darting around the empty room.

If he hadn’t just graduated from Berkeley with a degree in psychology, he still wouldn’t have believed that lie. It didn’t take a genius to know she was lying through her teeth.

“Candy.” He let the name roll off his lips. “What brings you to St. Helena?”

She sighed, then glanced at him from the side of her eyes. Sexy amber eyes that had little spots of hazel in them. He shook his head clear.

“Listen, I appreciate the food,” she started, only stopping when the bell chimed again above the door. Her entire body tensed and she almost froze on the spot.

He’d known she’d lied to him about Joe. He and Rafe went way back to kindergarten. Joe could no more abuse a spider, let alone a supposed girlfriend. But, he’d let the woman continue on with the story. At least her presence was breaking up the mundane day-to-day he’d been dealing with for almost a week.

They watched a group of older women walk into the coffee shop; each grabbed a mug and walked over to the self-serve coffee dispensers. Once the group had all their coffees just right, they settled in their favorite spot. A large booth that sat close to the doorway. The women were a staple in the town and to the coffee shop. Some of the bluest blood in Napa Valley sat at the booth and huddled as they plotted the demise or the uprising of their children and grandchildren.

“They come in every day,” he reassured, turning back to Candy. “So”—he leaned closer, just a breath away from her. He could smell flowers and almost closed his eyes and inhaled the sexy scent. His hand reached across the table, brushing slightly against hers as he removed the empty plate— “do you want to tell me the real reason you were hiding from Joe, Candy?” The way he’d said the name, assured her he knew she was lying.

But, since he figured she wasn’t about to bolt while there was an audience, he’d taken the chance.

Her eyes darted to the doorway, then to the group of ladies who were all happily chatting a few feet from them.

“Fine.” She sighed and turned back to him. “I really do appreciate the food.” She pushed the coffee mug back towards him. “I don’t do caffeine,” she added. “My name is Eva and I just don’t like cops.” She shrugged. “My old man was a cop.” Her eyes once again started roaming behind his shoulders as she went on to tell him another story about how her father had been abusive.

“And here I thought we were making some progress,” he said after her quick lie. He leaned down, placed a large sticky bun on the countertop, and pushed it towards her. When her eyes grew large, he smiled.

As she started to reach for it, he pulled it back towards him slightly. “You’re welcome to all the free food...” He tilted his head slightly. “All I ask in return is the truth.”

He watched her eyes narrow and her sexy lips turn downward into a pout, making them look even fuller and more kissable.

“Why?” It came out as a whisper.

“Because I don’t like people lying to me.”

“No”—she shook her head— “why are you giving me free food?”

He chuckled. “Let’s just say, this town can get pretty boring.” He watched her eyes as they watched him. “And, you’re the first person I’ve met in St. Helena in a while that I find interesting. But,” he sobered. “I don’t do deceptions.”

She took a shallow breath as her eyes moved to the steaming roll. He could smell the sweetness of the sugar and knew that she could too. He could all but see her mouth watering, as she devoured the treat with her eyes.

Her eyes moved back to his. “The truth?”

He nodded, and then waited.

“Fine.” She shrugged. “You may not find it so fascinating.” She leaned forward slightly, and with her eyes on his, took the plate from him.

“Your name is Eva?”

She nodded at his question.

“And you are from?”

Her eyes met his as her mouth opened, then shut. Sighing, she answered, “Seattle.”

He tilted his head and said. “Why were you hiding from Joe?”

Her eyes returned to the treat. “I don’t like cops.”

“Are you wanted?” he asked in a low tone so the group of women in the room wouldn’t hear.

Her eyes moved up to his and he saw sadness cross behind them. “No. No one wants me.”

In that moment, he realized she believed she was telling him the truth. 

Chapter Two

Eva swallowed the pain of loneliness and then scooped up some more of the cinnamon goodness. She’d dealt with enough hurt and pain the past year. She’d kept it at bay for so long she hadn’t really had time to dwell on it.

But, with the big chocolate eyes looking at her now, she felt like for the first time in a while, she wanted to explore what was behind it all. More importantly, she wanted to get a few things off her chest. She’d held it in for too long. And, something told her that Rafe was just the kind of man who would listen.

Her eyes moved around the small shop. “So, is this place yours?” she asked before he could ask her another question.

“The Brew-Ha-Ha, is my sister’s dream,” he said, standing up and walking over to pour himself some more coffee.

Her eyes moved around once more. “Brew?”

“Ha-Ha,” he supplied, with a slight shake of his head and a roll of his eyes.

She smiled. “Your sister?”

“Is in Alaska, currently getting over her second husband.” He rolled his eyes again and moved back until he stood directly across from her. “Who I suspect, cheated on her like the first one had.”

“Oh, I’m sorry,” she mumbled as she shoved the last of the sticky bun into her mouth. She reached for the bottled water, only to discover that it was empty.

Without breaking eye contact, Rafe leaned down and pulled out another bottle from behind the counter, and set it in front of her.

“Thanks,” she added, then downed half its contents.

“Where are you staying?” he asked, causing her heart to flip.

“Here and there.” She figured that was the truth and kept her eyes on his.

He dipped his head quickly. “Fair enough,” he added as his eyes ran over her. “Why St. Helena?”

She drank some more water and shuffled her bag on her back. She’d been tolerant of his questions so far, but now she was finding it harder and harder to dodge the answers. Besides, she was a person of honor. When she agreed to tell him the truth, she knew she’d stick to it.

Her eyes moved to the back of the store and noticed the bathroom sign. His eyes followed hers.

“I...” She wet her lips as she dreamed of a hot shower, but would make due with a washcloth and a bar of soap in a small bathroom sink.

“Go. You can answer the question after.” He took a sip of his coffee and leaned against the countertop.

She could feel him watching her walk towards the bathroom, her backpack secured on her shoulders.

When she reached the doorway, she glanced back and watched him pull on a pair of black-rimmed glasses. Damn. The man had the sexy nerd thing going on as he picked up a book that had been flipped upside down on the countertop, and started reading. He looked like a sexy Professor Jones in Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Hell, what was she going to do to get out of answering his questions?

She shut the heavy wood door to the single women’s restroom and leaned against it.

Okay, first things first. It was obvious her libido was going crazy because she’d gone too long without. So, she’d find a way out of this town, then find herself a man. Simple.

She glanced around and smiled when she noticed the large frosted window above the toilet.

Okay, scratch that. First, she’d clean up in his restroom, then she’d get out of his shop. Then she’d worry about the rest later.

She took her time in the bathroom, using the small washcloth she’d swiped from an inn in Oregon, and the fancy soap from the bookstore’s cupboard—she was thankful when she noticed the full supplies in the small space above the counter.

It took her less than a second to push all the small boxes of soaps into her bag, along with several rolls of toilet paper and some napkins.

She was almost desperate for a towel, but since all she found were paper products, she figured she’d have to make do. After cleaning up the best she could, she opened the window quietly, then crawled up on top of the toilet and glanced out.

There was a small alleyway in the back, with a good-sized deck leading from the back of the building. A couple cars were parked in the rear, but so far, she couldn’t see any people.

Tossing her bag out, she hit the flush on the toilet and shimmed her way up and out the window.

She must have gauged the distance wrong. Her legs dangled as she gripped the edge of the window. Her fingers screamed as the sharpness cut into them, holding her entire weight. She kicked out, hoping to find something to get a grip, but only found open air instead.

Thoughts of dropping to the ground rushed into her mind. Could she afford to hurt herself? What if she broke an ankle? There was no way she could stay on the run with a broken ankle, or worse.

Just when she was debating pulling herself back up, strong hands wrapped around her waist and hoisted her down.

Instantly, she closed her eyes and sighed.

“Going somewhere, hellcat?” His voice sounded even sexier when there was a hint of laughter.

She felt him bring her body up against his and instantly felt heat spread throughout her system. Damn, she thought. I really need a man.

His hands stayed on her waist, holding her against his chest.

“I thought we had a deal?” he said when she didn’t reply.

“You thought wrong.” She turned on him, anger flashing behind her eyes. She’d misgauged how close he was and almost smacked her forehead into his chin as she turned towards him, her eyes glued to his soft brown ones. “I don’t owe you anything.” She placed her hands on her hips and glared up at him.

“The truth,” he added, causing more anger to surface.

“Why? What do you care?”

He tilted his head. “Something tells me if I don’t. No one will,” he added softly.

His words took all the steam out of her fight. “Who are you?” she asked and tried to take a step back, but only had her back coming up against the brick wall.

“I told you...” he started to say, but stopped when she shook her head. “Very well, come inside and I’ll tell you.” He tilted his head towards the opened back door of the coffee shop.

He bent down, picked up her bag, and held it out for her. Her eyes moved from the bag to the man. Giving in, she rolled her eyes and took the bag from him, then marched back into the shop.

When she noticed that the group of women was gone, she hesitated.

“I didn’t kick them out,” he said from behind her. “More people will be coming and going.” He sighed as he walked behind the counter again. “It’s a small town and this place has some of the best coffee around.”

“Fine. Whatever,” she said under her breath.

“Are you going to tell me who you’re running from?” he asked when she settled in the high stool again.

“No one...” she started to say, only to get a sharp look from him.

“What if I told you it was from an abusive husband?” She leaned on the counter, a breath from him, and watched his eyes heat.

“Then I’d say you’re breaking a promise.”

Her eyebrows shot up. “How do you do that?” she asked, and watched his entire face transform as he smiled.

Instead of answering, he leaned over and picked up the book he’d been reading. He tapped the cover and she read, Brain & Behavior: An Introduction to Biological Psychology.

“A shrink?” she asked.

He shook his head. “Not yet. I’d just graduated when my sister called.”

She did some quick math and realized that he was easily three years older than she was. Then she glanced at him, her body instantly responding to how he was looking at her—by vibrating. Everywhere.

She held her breath and reached for the bottle of water again.

“So?” he said, causing her to meet his eyes in question. “Who are you running from?”

Sighing loudly, she glanced around the empty shop. “My family.”

“Why?” he asked, not missing a beat.

She avoided his eyes. “Because they want me dead.”

***

“That can’t be true.” He pulled out a plate of cookies and set them in front of her, taking one for himself.

He watched her easily reach for one and nibble on it. His body reacted instantly when her tongue darted out and licked the chocolate from her bottom lip.

There was just something about this woman that wouldn’t let him off the horny hook.

“Sure it is. They hate me,” she said, her eyes meeting his, this time.

“Why?” he asked, sipping his coffee and getting out another bottle of water for her.

“Because I’m worthless,” she said, her eyes avoiding his again.

Instead of saying anything, he just tilted his head.

“Geez.” She sighed. “Okay.” She set her cookie down and rolled her eyes. “Because I screwed up.”

He heard the sadness in her voice and held himself back from reaching across the bar and taking her hand.

“Family means forgiveness,” he added, thinking about all the shit his two sisters had given him over the years.

She laughed and shook her head. “Not mine. Not after what I did.” She picked up her cookie and finished it off.

“Why?” he asked, searching her eyes.

“Because,” she sighed, then glanced back at the leather sofa that sat along the back wall. There were several very full large cherry bookcases on either side, and a small fireplace in the corner.

When she glanced back at him, he could see the weariness in her eyes.

“Because, you don’t recover from the kind of screw-ups I did.” She sighed. “Would you mind if I...” She nodded towards the sofa.

“Where are you staying?” he asked again. From the look of her, he guessed she hadn’t had a good night’s sleep in weeks.

“Right now”—her eyes met his— “just outside of town.”

“Where?” he asked, seeing that she was avoiding answering.

Her eyes dipped and he could see her struggle with energy. “There’s this old cabin,” she started.

“Off McIntire Lane?” he asked.

When she nodded, he sighed. “The key was under the mat?”

Her eyes met his and he watched her chin drop. Her lips made a sexy little O. “Your place?” she asked.

He nodded. “The power and water have been off for over two years.”

She sighed and nodded. “Yeah, I couldn’t have gotten so lucky.” He watched her shoulders hunch. “I didn’t mess with anything.” Her eyes met his. “I swear. I’d been staying in the woods for a while when I found it empty.”

“It’s okay.” He believed her. “I’m staying at my sister’s for now.” The truth was, going back to the cabin hurt too much. “You’re welcome to stay with me...” Before he could finish the sentence, her eyes burned his. “Scouts honor I won’t try anything.” He held up his fingers, then smiled. “Unless you do.”

Her eyes narrowed and he watched her cheeks flush. God, she was sexy as hell.

“Why aren’t you calling the cops?” she asked after a moment.

He chuckled. “Why would I?”

“Oh, I don’t know. I just told you I broke into your place—” she started.

“You used the key, right? Didn’t actually break anything?” he interrupted.

“Right.” She sighed.

“So”—he shrugged— “no damage?”

She nodded. “But...”

He leaned closer. “Eva, I get that you’ve had a rough...” He tilted his head slightly.

“Year.” When she added this, his anger boiled deep inside at the thought of her running and living like she was now.

“I get that you’ve had it rough, but honest, I only want to make sure you’re safe. Stay with me. My sister’s place is big enough—you’d have a soft bed of your own, a bathroom with a massive shower, and her fridge is completely stocked. Besides, she won’t be back for a few weeks. It should give you enough time to decide what your next move is,” he added. “I’m stuck down here most of the day, babysitting this place.” He thought about it and then leaned back. “Actually, if you’re willing...”

She waited, biting her bottom lip, which only caused his dick to jump at the thought of that sexy mouth on him.

“I could use some help around here, for a few weeks, until my sister returns. I’d pay you minimum wage.”

She glanced around the empty room.

“It is busier in the mornings and after school is out,” he added, glancing at his clock and realizing that in just over an hour, there would be more people than he liked to think of, rushing through the door.

He could tell the instant she’d made up her mind. Her amber eyes lit up and turned to a sexy gold.

Chapter Three

What the hell was she thinking? Eva stood under the hot shower later that night and moaned with pleasure as the water washed away all the dirt and grime she’d felt caked on her for the past week.

She’d watched him manage his sister’s store like a pro. He’d been right, shortly after four that evening, there had been a line almost extending out the front door of the place. Older kids rushed in from after school, their backpacks flung over their shoulders.

She’d ended up helping him fill orders and clear tables, and by the time they locked the doors, shortly after six, she’d been exhausted. She’d also been starved and impressed that Rafe seemed to know how to handle most everyone in town.

But now, she was in pure heaven, and completely insane. Rafe had been right once again—his sister’s shower was massive. As was the guest room in his sister’s place. The fact that he was staying in a smaller room just down the hallway from her, did little to settle her nerves and her desire to run down there and rip off his clothes.

She rolled her head under the spray and nudged the temperature down a few notches. Her body shivered at the cold water, but she knew she needed it to clear her mind from the sexy brown- eyed man who somehow could get her to say and do things she normally wouldn’t.

Trusting a complete stranger went against everything she’d ever learned. Then again, trusting people she’d known hadn’t always worked out for her either.

She pulled the thick towel around her body and wrapped another one around her long hair, enjoying the soft scents from the soaps and shampoo Rafe’s sister Cindy had in the bathroom.

The tile flooring gleamed as she crossed the bathroom. She leaned over the sink and wiped the steam from the mirror.

She sighed at the skinny girl staring back at her. Removing the towels, she assessed her image and frowned at her reflection. She’d gone too long without a good meal. Her hip bones protruded out and she was pretty sure she could play her ribs like a xylophone. Her cheeks were hollowed out and there were dark purple circles under her amber eyes, her only remaining attractive feature.

Picking up the fresh pair of sweats Rafe had given her, she pulled them on along with an old T-shirt, and tossed the wet towels into the laundry bin. Since he’d shown her where the washer and dryer were, she was currently washing everything she owned, including the clothes she’d peeled off herself moments before stepping into the best shower of her life.

She used his sister’s comb to straighten her hair, and smiled at the length of the blonde tresses. At least she had her amber eyes and lighter hair, she thought as she walked out of the bathroom and into the room she had been given for the next few weeks.

When her stomach growled, she decided to venture out of the room and head down the curved staircase towards the kitchen. Rafe hadn’t been lying about that either. The place was well stocked. She hadn’t seen so much food in her life.

When she walked in, all the lights were on and Rafe was standing at the stove. A Wonderful aroma filled the entire room.

“That smells amazing,” she said, tucking her legs underneath her as she sat on a barstool. She glanced around and marveled at the beautiful surroundings.

She’d seen enough magazines to know that Rafe’s sister’s place could have easily donned the cover of any of them.

Its high wood ceiling allowed enough light into the room that, even in the evening, there was enough brightness to cook and eat from. The bar top was made from a huge block of wood, carved in a gentle arch.

The barstools were heavy and had high backs and rich leather seats. They were so comfortable, she easily relaxed while Rafe rushed around the massive stove and cooked. There was a large overhead vent pumping out the steam from the cooking food.

Over in the corner, a cozy breakfast nook with soft cushions and windows surrounded the booth area. Fresh flowers sat on the table.

Actually, when she looked around, she noticed several vases of fresh flowers.

“When did you say your sister left?” she asked, leaning closer to see if she could get a look at what he was cooking.

“Five days ago,” he added, not turning around. “Why?”

“Who delivered these?” she asked, fingering the soft petals of the blossoms.

“Hmm?” He glanced over his shoulder, then smiled big as love flooded his eyes. “Cara,” he said, then turned back to his meal. “She stopped by this morning.”

Eva felt her heart slow as her shoulders slumped. She’d assumed, by the way he’d been looking at her like she was a piece of dessert, that he was single.

She may break into other people’s homes and crash there, but she wasn’t a home wrecker.

“She owns the place a few doors down from the Brew-Ha-Ha. It’s called Fashion Flower.” He chuckled and moved a pan from the heat. “Actually, she’s the reason Cindy opened her place.” He was too busy moving food to plates to notice the slight frown on her lips.

She tried desperately to ignore the damn sexy man in worn jeans and faded T-shirt standing at the stove, barefoot, cooking for her. Especially since he was currently gloating about his girlfriend.

“They may be crazy, but that’s why I love them.” He finished up and she realized she’d zoned out the last part of his conversation.

“Hm?” she asked with a frown.

“My sisters,” he added with a chuckle. “They’ve always had this unhealthy competition. That’s why Cindy opened the coffee shop. To compete with Cara.”

“Your...sister,” she supplied, causing him to nod.

“So, I hope you like fish.” She was grateful he changed the subject.

He nodded towards the table behind her.

“Depends.” She squished up her nose. But, she couldn’t deny that the smells were nothing but wonderful.

“I think you’ll like this. It’s one of my mother’s recipes.” He set the plates down, then walked over and helped her from the stool.

When she scooted into the booth, he moved to the opposite side and sat down.

The white fish smelled like lemon and heaven. The fillet sat on a bed of wild rice mixed with peas and greens.

She leaned down and took a whiff, then let out a low moan.

When she looked up, she realized that Rafe’s eyes were glued to her. His mouth sat open slightly.

“Are you single?” she asked, and hid a smile when his chin dropped down slightly. Not giving him a chance, she picked up her fork and broke off a piece of the fillet. “I’m only asking because you seem like such a great catch. I mean, you haven’t mentioned a wife” —she tilted her head slightly— “or a girlfriend yet.” She took the bite into her mouth and released another moan, this time closing her eyes as the meat melted into her mouth.

When she opened her eyes again, his eyes had changed. There was no longer the soft brown as before. Now, they held a hint of burning desire, which made them appear slightly darker around the irises.

Her mouth watered even more just looking at him.

He blinked a few times, then reached for his own fork. “No.” He cleared his throat. “I’m single.” Then his eyes moved back to hers. “You?”

She sighed after she took another forkful. “Single.” She shrugged. “What about your other sister? Cara?”

“Happily married to her high school sweetheart, my best friend, Corey,” he added, taking another bite of his own food. “Do you have any siblings?”

She felt her entire body stiffen and her vision grey as her breathing slowed. Then, in a burst, her chest heaved as air shot in and out of her lungs painfully. Her head did a quick spin as the room started to tilt.

***

It was funny. You could read about something a million times in a book, but seeing it actually happen, was a completely different matter.

Seeing Eva in a full-blown panic attack was something he would never forget for the rest of his life.

He raced across the small space and yanked her free of the table just before she slid to the floor. Her face had turned pale and her chest had heaved with the lack of oxygen getting into her lungs. Her entire body had tensed—that was just before it turned to melted butter.

He carried her to the sofa in his sister’s living room and gently laid her down on the cushions.

He rubbed his hands over her arms until her eyelids fluttered open. The amber was dull and she’d lost most of her coloring.

“You okay?” he asked softly.

“Hmmm.” She closed her eyes and groaned. “I swear, I’m not crazy,” she said, keeping her eyes closed.

He held in a chuckle. “Panic attacks don’t make you crazy,” he added.

“Is that what that was?” She tried to sit up, only stopping when he held her in place with a hand on her shoulder. “I’ve never had one before.” She bit her bottom lip. His eyes moved to the slight motion and watched it with great interest.

“Does it have something to do with your...brother? Sister?” he asked, handing her a bottled water he’d retrieved from the kitchen table.

“Brother,” she said before taking a large drink. “Nate was everything.” She closed her eyes. “Everything to my parents.”

He could hear the bitterness she carried for her family.

“What happened?” he asked, shifting closer to her. He wanted to reach out and touch her, but instead, tucked his hands close to his own body.

Her eyes slid open and she glanced over at the marble fireplace, unseeing.

“It was supposed to be a short trip. Nate was coming to visit me at college. It was less than a half-hour drive,” she added, closing her eyes again. “But, I’d been out partying the night before.”

He sat silently listening. “Go on,” he said when she didn’t continue.

“I guess I was still a little hungover. I didn’t realize I’d drifted...” Her eyes flew open. He noticed her entire body tense as she relived the moments. “He was supposed to sit in the back. He was too skinny”—she chuckled harshly— “under a hundred pounds. Mom always said...he was too skinny,” she added, shaking her head. “But, when he was with me, I always let him sit up front. Like he wanted.”

His hand reached out and took hers. Giving her the small comfort he could.

“I... the car drifted across the middle line. I didn’t see the truck until...I swerved,” she said between breaths. “I swerved and avoided the truck, but hit the pole. On Nate’s side.” A burst of air escaped her. “It should have been me. I should have never swerved.” She closed her eyes as he gathered her up close.

No amount of school or reading could have ever prepared him for this. He knew what the textbooks said. How to comfort someone who was grieving. How to help them work past the pain.

But feeling her body convulse with the sorrow as she cried, undid him. He placed soft kisses on top of her head as he murmured soft words to her.

When she leaned back, he pulled away and looked down at her.

“Why are you being so nice to me? I don’t deserve any of this.” She glanced around. He felt her tense to get up, but once again held her in place.

“Do you know why I’m here?” he asked, stopping her.

She shook her head, not understanding his question.

“I’m here, in St. Helena, babysitting my sister’s coffee shop, because of guilt.” He shifted as she sat up slightly. “My sisters were too young to remember our mother. I was ten when she died of leukemia. But, there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t feel guilty that I remember that wonderful woman, and they don’t.”

“I’m sorry,” she said between sniffles. “But, it wasn’t your fault your mother got sick.”

“No, but for years and years, even to this day, anytime my sisters ask something of me, I jump. Why? Because I know that if my mother were alive, she would be here for them. So, the desire to keep a wonderful woman alive, drives me to do things I normally wouldn’t. If we choose to let it, guilt will eat us whole, until there’s nothing left inside.” His mind drifted to his father and the cold morning he’d found his body in the cabin.

“Nate was only twelve,” she said softly. “I chose to drive. I chose to swerve. I chose—”

He stopped her by taking her hand up to his lips. “It was a terrible accident.” He placed a kiss on her fingertips. “I could spout a million reasons why you shouldn’t beat yourself up, but something tells me you already know in here.” He placed a hand over her heart. “You need to choose. Let guilt eat you whole, or get up and take your life back. Fate has a way of making things happen. You can’t change what’s in the past, but what you do from here on—it’s up to you.”

Chapter Four

Eva lay awake that night, listening to the complete quiet of the large house. For the first time in almost a year, sleep eluded her, and it wasn’t because she was uncomfortable or afraid. This time, it was her own mind that stopped her eyes from sliding closed.

Her heart hurt, her head hurt, and her body ached. She missed her little brother so much. But, more, she missed herself.

She’d been running scared for so long; she didn’t know if there was anything of herself left. Gone was the young woman who was top of her class. Gone was the desire to become a journalist. Everything was gone. Even the desire for her own family someday.

She was dead inside. She’d been so angry; she hadn’t even seen or cared what was directly in front of her.

The morning she’d woken up in the hospital, after the accident, she’d found out about Nate. Two days later, she’d snuck out of her hospital room and jumped a bus to Portland. From there, she’d traveled all over, desperately running from the guilt.

Rafe had been right. Guilt had eaten her up. Eaten her until she was nothing but an empty shell.

Tossing her feet over the edge of the bed, she wiggled her toes as they hit the cool wood floor.

She wanted to take her life back. Starting now.

She tiptoed down the hallway and stood outside Rafe’s door. Seeing the light shine under the door only confirmed her choice.

Raising her hand, she knocked on the door and smiled when he answered with a, “Come in.”

When she opened the door, she lost her breath. He was sitting up in bed, shirtless, with those sexy glasses on and a book in hand. His chest was more impressive than even her imagination had conjured up. From what she could tell, he spent as much time in the gym as he did with his nose in a book.

“You okay?” he asked, removing his glasses and setting them and the book on the nightstand.

She couldn’t have answered him if she wanted, since her mouth had gone completely dry.

Without saying a word, she walked across the room, slowly lifting the T-shirt as she went. She watched his eyes heat as they watched her every movement. When she tossed the shirt onto the floor, she smiled at the hunger behind the brown eyes.

“Eva,” he said, his voice sounding a little rough.

“No, I don’t want to question this. Not tonight.” She slowly removed the sweats and kicked them aside.

When she stood in front of him, completely exposed, she felt part of her old self return, and smiled. “You make me believe that there’s more. That I can have happy.” She placed a knee on the edge of the bed and smiled when his hand came up to touch her skin. His fingers brushed her kneecap, and then moved slowly up to her thigh.

“You’re sure?” he asked, his eyes meeting hers.

“Most definitely,” she said, smiling down at him.

In one quick motion, he gripped her hips and spun them around until she was pinned underneath him. His bare chest pushed up against her own. She could feel his heart beating against her skin and her body responding to the desire behind those sexy brown eyes of his.

His lips descended until they hovered an inch above hers. “You’re so damn sexy,” he said, just before he crushed her lips with his.

She’d been starved. Denied the simple pleasure of a kiss for too long. And here was this sexy bookworm, kissing the hell out of her. His mouth brushed against hers, his tongue darted out to lap slow circles around her lips. Shivers and goose bumps raced all over her body as a fire built deep within.

Her fingers dug into his dark hair, then traveled down his neck until she scraped her nails on his skin over those sexy muscles.

“Hmmm,” she moaned as his lips traveled down her neck. “My God,” she whispered when his mouth settled over her breast. Her body arched as his mouth rushed over every inch of her, hungrily. His hands roamed even lower until she was writhing underneath him. Her legs wrapped around his hips as his fingers brushed her sensitive skin.

“Rafe,” she begged and tried to pull him closer.

“Easy.” He chuckled. “Trust me,” he said against her skin. Then he shifted slightly, until he settled between her legs. He brushed that hot mouth of his across her most sensitive spot sending lightning shooting throughout her system. Her shoulders bound from the bed as she arched up, her hands gripping his hair as she begged, pleaded, desired.

“Yes, that’s it, hellcat,” he said next to her skin. “Show me what you want,” he begged.

“That,” she cried out. “You.” She tossed her head from side to side. “Now.” She tried to tug him up, but he just chuckled and spread her legs wider. “I’m not done with dessert,” he said just before he made her scream out his name.

She felt her entire body convulse, repetitively, then felt him shift slightly as he covered her. The weight of him only added to her pleasure.

“Eva, look at me,” he said. She’d heard him dig in the nightstand for a condom and had patiently waited, counting the beats of her heart as he sheathed himself.

Her eyes fluttered open, just before he filled her completely.

She held onto him, taking what she needed, giving him what he wanted until she felt that she was on the verge of bursting.

“Let go,” he demanded softly next to her ear. His fingers tangled in her hair—the other hand traveled over her body, holding on where he could.

Her legs wrapped around his hips, pulling him closer. Her breath burned her lungs as she tried to hold onto this moment.

His hand moved up until his fingers tangled with hers, holding them slightly above her head. His breath warmed her neck as his lips brushed her skin.

But, when he moved again, she felt her entire body burst into flames as she cried out his name.

***

“My god,” Rafe said into Eva’s hair. “My god,” he repeated. “Wow.”

She chuckled. “You could say that again.”

He did, then shifted so he could look down at her. Her blonde hair fanned out on his pillow. Her amber eyes laughed up at him.

“You’re beautiful,” he said, placing another kiss on those sexy lips.

“I’m too skinny.” She frowned up at him.

“That’s okay.” He ran a hand over her sexy body. “You won’t stay that way too long eating my cooking.”

“My god.” This time it was her who said it. “Just what every woman wants. A man with brains and he cooks.” She chuckled, the sound doing all sorts of new things to his body.

When her eyes grew large, he guessed that she’d noticed.

“Again?” she said softly, her arms coming back around his shoulders.

“It’s that smile,” he said, rolling her over once more. She felt like heaven, tasted like the sweetest dessert, and from the sexy wildcat sounds she was currently making, he guessed she enjoyed him as much.

Her nails scratched him, causing his desire to triple in a matter of seconds.

“Yes, hellcat,” he growled as he hoisted her knees to his chest.

Diving deeper into her warmth, their lips met and he held the kiss as long as he could.

He could just imagine himself wanting her softness, her taste even more and more.

Then she wrapped those sexy legs over his shoulders and hoisted herself closer and he lost all train of thought.

Pure primitive Rafe took over. He lost the last hold of control he’d desperately been trying to hold onto since she’d walked into his room, wearing his old sweats and T-shirt.

Just seeing her in those clothes had sent his system into overdrive during dinner.

Now, seeing her out of them was...well, it was pure heaven.

He felt the moment she tensed around him, watched the orgasm change her eyes from soft amber to pure heat. Her face flushed as she bit her bottom lip and moaned out his name. Just seeing her like this, in pure bliss, sent him over the edge.

A few minutes later, he rolled away from her again. Then leaned over and kissed her lips once more. “Damn sexy, hellcat,” he said against them. Her body was cooling under his, so he wrapped his arms around her waist and pulled her close. Her body fit perfectly against his. He felt her stiffen slightly, but then she relaxed again.

“We’d better get some sleep. Four a.m. comes awful early,” he said, feeling his own heartbeat return to normal.

“Four?” She turned her head towards him.

“Hm,” he said into her hair. “Yup, that’s when the deliveries come.”

“Why couldn’t your sister have opened a bar?” she grumbled, causing him to laugh.

“In wine country?”

“Sure, why not.” She yawned and he felt her body relax even more.

“Well, for one, there are plenty of wine bars already in this town. Not to mention a person could go to any of the in-house tastings at any of the wineries.”

“Sure, but do they have dancing?” she added and settled closer into his chest.

He thought about it. “Now that’s something I’d like to see.” He thought about her in a tight jean skirt, sexy red cowgirl boots, and her hair swaying with the music. Hell, he needed to get out more often. He didn’t even like country music.

“Hm?” She yawned again and he changed his thinking knowing she’d be asleep soon. That fantasy would just have to wait for another time. He tightened his arms around her and smiled into her hair.

“This stuffy town cut loose.” He chuckled at the thought of a grimy country music bar in St. Helena.

He felt the moment she drifted off, her body, completely relaxed next to his.

His mind refused to shut down as he ran through a million questions. He’d tried to do a little research on her. But, since she hadn’t supplied him with a last name, he’d only come up with dead ends.

He had decided to try to get more information from her. Not that he didn’t trust her—actually, he was finding it easier to read her the more she opened up to him.

He could see the pain and the hurt easily in her eyes and knew she’d told him the truth about her brother. He’d noticed the anger she had towards herself the second he’d met her.

Hellcat. He thought of his nickname for her and smiled as she snuggled closer to him and felt an almost purr coming from her chest. He thought about modifying the nickname to sex kitten instead.

When his alarm went off, he moved to slap it off, only to have his hand weighted down by soft, warm skin. Shifting, he used his other hand and turned the squawking off. Then he wrapped his arm around Eva and dreamed for just a moment of spending the entire day in bed with her.

Instead, he rolled them both until her arms and hair tangled with his. “Time for a shower,” he said, lifting her easily into his arms. “Then some hot food and off to work.”

She groaned and tried to fight him off, only to go completely lax in his arms as he carried her into the bathroom. When he reached in, turning on the shower, she screamed as the cold water hit them both full force.

“What the...” She pushed at his wet chest until he had to shift slightly.

“Honey, if you keep doing that, you’re going to end up cold, wet, and on the floor.” He chuckled and tightened his grip so she wouldn’t fall.

She stilled. “You could have warned me,” she growled and glared up at him. There was his hellcat again. Instead of answering, he just smiled down at her.

“You’re an ass.” She pushed lightly at his chest.

His hands released, sending her sliding down his body, slowly. He watched her eyes heat as their body friction ignited something in both of them.

He moved his hands around and gripped her soft rear, pulling her tight up against his erection. “I’m sorry, what did you say about my ass?”

Her eyes closed on a moan, her head rolled back as her hips started to move slowly.

His fingers wrapped around until he brushed up against her softness and had her purring for him once more.

Chapter Five

Eva rested her chin on her fist and listened to the minutes tick by. After that morning’s shower, and what a sex-filled shower it had been, she needed a nap. Hell, what she needed was a week of sleep to recover from what Rafe had done to her.

Her body instantly responded as she thought about it, causing her to shift on the stool and glance towards the back of the shop.

He was outside, helping the delivery guy shuffle in box after box. He’d told her to sit behind the counter and “man the store.” But so far, all she’d done was watch the minutes tick by slowly.

Just as her eyelids drooped, the bell above the door chimed and a very blonde, very gorgeous woman rushed in with a smaller version of herself trailing behind her.

When she saw Eva, she stopped dead in her tracks in the middle of the shop and frowned. Her mini-me slammed into the back of her, since her eyes had been glued to her phone. Eva held in a little chuckle and instead pasted a smile on her face for her first customers.

“Hey,” the younger girl said. Then her eyes moved up and landed on Eva. Her miniature mouth and her mother’s both dropped into a matching O shape.

“Who are you?” the woman purred as her eyes narrowed.

“I’m Eva.” She shifted as the woman looked down her high-society nose at her. The harsh looks the woman gave her were enough to get Eva’s temper rolling. “I’m helping out Rafe and Cindy for the next few weeks.” She shifted and, in the process, raised her chin a little higher. “Is there something I can help you with?”

“Coffee”—the woman glanced down at her phone as it beeped— “black.” Her eyes moved up again. “And make it quick.”

Just then, the little girl, tugged on her mother’s jacket sleeve. “Mom, can I have a hot chocolate?”

The woman spared her daughter a glance, and for the first time since walking in the door, Eva watched the woman’s eyes soften. “Yes,” she said, and then turning back to Eva, her eyes and face shifted once more. Just as quickly. “And a hot chocolate. Minus the cream and marshmallows.”

Eva watched the little girl’s shoulders slump slightly.

She turned around and started filling the order. Rafe had quickly schooled her on the cash register system, but she’d spent more of her summers in high school working behind the counter of a coffee shop than she dared to think about. So, she already knew how to man the machines to make the drinks.

When she was done with the hot chocolate, she added two of the largest marshmallows she could find, then added a dash of chocolate sprinkles and winked at the little girl, whose mother was too busy tapping away at her phone to even notice.

“Here you are,” she added, then walked over to the cash register as the woman sipped at her coffee. “That’ll be twelve dollars, even.” She waited.

The woman stared at her. “Cindy usually gives us a discount.”

“Cindy isn’t here,” Eva added, tilting her head slightly.

The woman’s eyes narrowed. “Who did you say you were?”

“Eva,” she supplied.

“I mean, your family?”

Eva’s chin rose. “I didn’t.”

The woman’s eyes narrowed even more. “You must be from out of town.”

Eva placed on one of her biggest fake smiles and nodded. “Guilty as charged.”

“Well, then let me set you straight.” The woman leaned slightly towards her. “I’m Isabel Stark. Of the Napa Valley Starks.” When Eva didn’t even blink at the name, the woman seemed to grow more agitated. “My family has known the Rowan family for generations.” Once again, Eva didn’t blink. She got the hint that the Rowan family was Rafe and Cindy, but didn’t let on. “We have always been given a discount at any of their businesses.”

“As I mentioned before, Cindy isn’t available. If you want the coffee and hot chocolate, it’ll be twelve dollars even.” She held her ground as the woman shifted.

There was a moment of silence, and then the woman shuffled out the twelve dollars from her very expensive black Fendi handbag.

Eva wanted to chuckle at the irony of the woman arguing over her twelve-dollar bill when she held a purse that cost almost as much as a car, but held it in instead.

As the pair of them walked out of the shop, the little girl glanced over her shoulder and waved. Eva smiled and the girl gave a very large smile in return as the bell chimed overhead.

“Well, you handled that well,” Rafe’s sexy voice sounded from beside her. “Thank god, I didn’t have to today,” she thought he said under his breath.

“Who is that woman?” she asked, sitting back down on the stool with a huff.

“Didn’t you hear? That was Isabel Stark.” He mimicked the woman’s tone almost identically, then chuckled. “One of St. Helena’s greatest families.” He rolled his eyes. Then leaned down and ran his hands over her shoulders, pumping the muscles a few times until she felt them relax under his light massage.

She couldn’t stop the purr from vibrating in her chest. The man had a way with his hands.

“Wow, if the first customer of the day could make you this tense, maybe I should’ve put you in the back?”

“No.” She reached up and took his hand. “It wasn’t the stuck up...” She shook her head, not wanting the hate in her mind to return, not after a night with Rafe had removed more than half of her pent-up energy. “It was the lack of sleep and you”—she turned to him— “that has my body vibrating.” She wrapped her arms around him and enjoyed watching his eyes go soft.

But, before he could lean in for a kiss, the bell chimed again. “And it begins.” He groaned and took a step back. “Hold onto your hat, things are about to get crazy.”

***

He hadn’t been joking. Every morning the shop turned into a zoo. A zoo filled with some of Napa Valley’s highest society, who all demanded their caffeine be made to perfection.

“Wine may fill the pockets of St. Helena, but it’s coffee that gets them going each day,” he joked after the morning rush was over.

“That and the cinnamon rolls,” she said, shoving another piece of her own roll into her mouth. When she moaned with delight, he felt himself grow hard.

Damn, the woman had a hold on his libido. He shifted so she wouldn’t see the bulge in his pants.

“So, what do we do now?” She glanced over at him, her finger still trailing in her mouth as she licked the icing off her digit.

His mind instantly flashed to where else that sexy mouth could go and he felt his jeans almost burst. This time it was him who groaned.

She shifted, her eyes running up and down him. “Is there really a lingerie place next door?”

He moved closer to her, unknowingly. His body seemed to have a mind of his own.

“Yes, the Boulder Holder.” He wrapped his arms around her waist. He’d been imagining taking her, then and right there. “Why?”

She raised her arms and laid them gently on his shoulders. “Well, I was thinking, if you could give me a small advance”—her eyes softened and he realized he would have given her anything at the moment. Especially since she was rubbing her hips against his dick, making it twitch in his jeans— “I could run next door and get a few things.”

He dropped his hands, flipped open the cash register, and handed her the entire row of twenties. All within the span of a few seconds. “I like red,” he added, then pulled her closer again and kissed her until he thought his pants would explode.

The low chuckle that escaped her lips had him jerking her body against his, hard and fast, until she felt glued to him.

Then she moaned and he thought about locking up the shop and dragging her to the back room and peeling off those tight jeans of hers.

Just then, the bell chimed again and they both groaned and pulled apart. He watched her stiffen when Joe walked in with his partner. Both of St. Helena’s finest were laughing. When Joe spotted Eva, his eyes lit up even more.

“Hey.” He walked over to the counter and leaned against it. “I noticed you yesterday. Outside the animal shelter.”

Eva took a step back, her eyes going between the pair. She appeared frozen with fear.

“Eva’s helping me out while Cindy’s gone,” he supplied.

“Oh, that makes sense,” Steven, the older officer added in. “I know this place can get a little crazy.” He leaned on a stool and glanced over at the case full of sugar treats.

“I was hoping I’d run into you,” Joe continued as if his partner hadn’t spoken. “Eva?” Her name rolled off his tongue. “Have you been in town long?”

Rafe clearly saw the interest in his friend’s eyes, but knew that Eva was too scared to see the sexual desire behind the cop’s expression.

“A... a week,” she added, her eyes darting towards the door.

“Eva just came into town from Seattle. She’s staying with me,” he added as he slid his arm over her shoulder and pulled her close. His fingers brushed the tense muscles in her shoulders, but this time he knew she wouldn’t relax until Joe was gone.

Joe’s eyes and desire deflated. “Oh, hm, well...” He frowned and glanced over at the menu. “I guess I’ll have my usual,” he said to Rafe as his eyes glanced away from Eva.

Eva turned to him and tucked the money into her back pocket. “I’ll be back,” she whispered and edged her way around the two uniform cops.

He made a mental note to ask her once more why she was nervous around the police. Maybe there was something more behind her story she hadn’t told him. Yet.

“Find anything else out about the break-ins?” he asked, once he watched Eva outside head towards the boutique next door.

“No, looks like all they got away with was a few cans of food and some clothes,” Steve added.

“Did you ever check up on your place?” Joe asked.

“Yeah, it’s fine,” he said as he set a hot cup in front of the man.

“Well, no real harm was done. Looks like whoever did all the damage got scared off.”

“Damage?” he asked, stopping and turning back towards the men.

“Yeah, it all started with a car accident. A stolen truck veered off the highway, smacked into a transformer. You remember the blackout last week?”

He remembered the night his sister had left and nodded. “Thought it was the storm that did that.”

“Nope. It was the truck. We thought it was a few kids, you know, out for a joyride. But the plates came back from LA,” Steve added. “But, whoever was snooping around, breaking into places, must have left. Because there haven’t been any more reports.”

“We figured whoever it was must’ve gotten scared and left town.” Joe sipped his coffee. “Hand me one of those”—he nodded to the blueberry muffins— “I skipped out on breakfast this morning.”

Rafe set the muffin on a plate and put it in front of the man. He guessed Eva wasn’t going to be coming back into the shop until the two uniforms left, so naturally, he wanted them to hurry up.

But, by the way the two men were making themselves comfortable, he figured it was going to be a while.

He listened to them talk about their jobs, the town, and any and all of the local gossip. Just one more reason he was going to make sure his sister got an earful when she returned to town.

Then he thought about Eva and knew that he wouldn’t have traded the past week or the next several ahead of him, if it meant that he wouldn’t have met her.

Chapter Six

Eva gripped the bag tighter to her chest as she slowly walked by the window. If the cops where still there, she would continue past the shop and keep walking.

She chanced a glance in and noticed the two seats where the men had sat earlier, were vacant. Then a movement caught her eye and she continued down the sidewalk anyway.

Her heart melted when she saw the small tan and white dog she’d been admiring since coming into town. He was running in circles, chasing his own tail.

She laughed and watched him. When he noticed her, he stopped and walked over to lick the glass.

Bending down, she pushed her face and hands up against the window and spoke softly to the animal. She didn’t think he could hear her, but she continued to tell him how good and pretty he was.

“Looks like you have more than one friend in town,” Rafe said from directly behind her.

She glanced over her shoulder and smiled. “Isn’t he just great?”

He chuckled. “Bob has been in that window for weeks.”

“Bob?” She frowned at his pet name.

“Sure.” He nodded to the little guy’s tail. “I heard he was found in the middle of the road. Someone said a car ran over his tail. Chopped it clean off.”

“That’s horrible.” She frowned and looked at the small dog again.

He moved closer to her—she heard his breathing and felt her knees weaken. Good thing she was bent down, because she doubted they would have held her up.

“What did you get?” he asked, reaching down to pick up the bag she’d almost forgotten on the sidewalk beside her.

She quickly slapped his hands away and tucked the bag close to her heart.

“You’ll have to wait and see.” She started to stand up, only to have his hands move to her hips and help her up the rest of the way.

When he pulled her close, she sighed and easily walked into his arms.

“You know, we could shut the place down for a very long lunch break,” he added, wiggling his eyebrows.

Just then, they both glanced over as the same group of older ladies walked towards the coffee shop.

“There you are, Rafe. When is that sister of yours going to get back in town?” one of the women said, her eyes narrowing at Eva. “And who is this lovely creature? I thought we knew everyone in town.”

“This is Eva—Eva, ChiChi Giovanna Ryo. She’s the town’s matriarch,” he added with a wink to the woman.

“You scamp,” she replied with a chuckle. “This is Lucinda and Pricilla.” She waved to the other two women flanking her. “I’m sorry dear”—her eyes turned back to her— “I didn’t get your last name?”

“Chapman,” Eva supplied, without thinking.

“Oh,” two of the women piped up.

“Any relation to Harry Chapman?” one of them asked.

“Of the Seattle Chapmans?” the third woman added.

“My father,” she said, her eyes moving to Rafe, who only looked down at her with blankness. She held her breath, but when no recognition flashed in his eyes, she relaxed slightly.

“Who’s Harry Chapman?” Rafe asked as the women rushed over to take her in their arms and usher her back towards the Brew-Ha-Ha.

“The girl’s father,” ChiChi added over her shoulder. “Really, Rafe, pay attention.” The older woman rolled her eyes at Rafe, almost getting a giggle from Eva.

But, instead, she bit her bottom lip as the trio dragged her back into the cafe, the bag with her brand new sexy underwear and a soft blue sundress she’d admired, held tightly to her chest.

“Well, well, you simply must tell us what brings you to town,” ChiChi asked after shoving her down into the booth they had been in the day before.

“I...” she watched as Rafe walked in and started gathering the ladies’ coffee, since they were too consumed with asking her questions. “I’m just passing through.”

“And working for me,” he added, setting the first cup of coffee down.

The three women gasped. “Surely not.” Their eyes traveled back to her.

“For a few weeks. I’m helping out until Cindy comes back,” she supplied and watched the three women nod their heads in agreement.

“Very well. How is it that you know our Rafe?” Their eyes moved over to the man who was currently pouring sugar and cream into the other two cups.

“School,” he supplied. “Eva went to Berkeley.”

She held her breath and avoided the ladies’ eyes.

“Well, isn’t this nice. The two of you meeting up again,” ChiChi added as she glanced at the other three ladies.

When Rafe was done setting the mugs down, he moved over to the counter and got a plate of cookies, and set them in front of the group.

“Oh, thank you,” ChiChi said, waving Rafe away. “Now, I’m so sorry to hear about your brother.” The woman reached over the table and took Eva’s hand in her own frail one.

Suddenly, without any warning, Eva burst into tears.

Arms wrapped around her as her entire body convulsed. She hadn’t cried for Nate. Ever. Sure, she’d cried the other night, but she’d actually been crying for herself. For the guilt she’d felt. For the anger and the pain she’d endured for the past year. But not for Nate. She’d been silent in her mourning for her brother.

Actually, thinking about it after she’d blubbered all over the women, she’d been dry-eyed for well past a year. Even when she’d gone without food, shelter, or any other necessities.

That was until she’d come into St. Helena and met Rafe. She hadn’t felt anything until she’d met him. Now, it seemed she was beginning to feel too much.

“There, there, child.” ChiChi’s arms tightened around her. “Let it go. You needed that.” The woman ran a hand down her hair as Eva’s mind finally caught up with her emotions.

“I’m sorry,” she mumbled into the tissue one of the other women had pushed towards her.

Then before she could say anything else, a very large, gooey chocolate cookie was thrust into her mouth.

“Not that I don’t like the cookies that Cindy sells here, but they have nothing on my own recipe,” the woman sitting across from her added, pulling another cookie from the large bag she held.

Eva couldn’t remember if it was from Lucinda or Pricilla, but she chewed the cookie that had been shoved, unceremoniously into her mouth. It was better than the ones that had been delivered just that morning. Way better.

“Thank you.” She glanced up and noticed Rafe, hovering above her, a frown marring his face.

“You okay?” he asked, his voice a little rough.

Instead of answering, she nodded and wiped at her eyes again as she finished off the cookie.

“Go on, dear, we’ve got this,” ChiChi said, once again waving him away.

He set a bottled water down in front of her and walked away, still frowning.

“Now that all that is done, tell us what your intensions are with the young Rowan boy.”

Eva almost choked on the swallow of water she had in her mouth.

***

Rafe sat across the room and felt completely helpless. He’d never been so—hell, he didn’t know what. Hurt? Upset? Pissed?

Then he heard Eva laugh and relaxed slightly.

How could he be pissed at the Grey group. As he used to call them. The group of women didn’t mean any harm to Eva. But, still. Hearing and seeing her burst into tears had done something to him.

It was almost as if the sound had ripped his heart in two. Even hearing his sister cry like that hadn’t had the same effect.

Sure, she’d cried that first night she’d been with Rafe. But, that was in private and after she’d told him...hell, everything.

Flipping open his laptop, he decided since it was obvious the group was making Eva their next “project,” he had plenty of time to do a quick search.

Punching Harry Chapman, Seattle, Washington, into the search bar, he held in the gasp when several news headings popped up immediately.

Nathanial Chapman, son of Coffee King, Harry Chapman dies in car accident.

Instantly he knew who her family was. Harry Chapman’s brand of flavored coffees was some of the best coffees to come out of Seattle several years ago. Actually, the man was the reason Seattle was known for its coffee brands. That and Starbucks, but everyone knew Starbucks was nothing without Chapman Coffee.

Clicking into the article, he continued reading.

Daughter, Evangella had been behind the wheel of the BMW, and was unscathed. The Chapmans have made no comment as to the whereabouts of their daughter since the accident. It’s rumored that she was last seen leaving her hospital room, early in the morning, three days after the accident.

Evangella’s presence was missed at her brother’s funeral last year. Some speculate that it was due to the rumor that the young woman was currently sitting in a jail cell. It’s been no secret that the party girl had been seen the night before with her friends at Trinity Nightclub. Some speculate that the girl had been still drinking before the accident. The night before she’d caused a scene with then boyfriend, Kade Willison, son of billionaire, Keith Willison.

The two had broken their serious relationship off weeks before, when Evangella had accused Kade of cheating.

There was a picture of Eva and Kade, snuggled up to one another in a dark booth. Eva’s hair had been shorter, she’d been almost ten pounds heavier, healthier, and her eyes had been a lot happier.

Instantly Rafe’s heart did a quick dive.

He glanced over at the woman sitting across the coffee shop now and couldn’t help but feel sad.

Yes, she was too skinny. Almost ten pounds so. Her eyes had a hollowness to them. Even now, there were still dark circles under them that he doubted a month’s worth of sleep would remove.

What had she done? What drove a person to leave everything behind? Guilt? He shook his head. No, from what she said, it was just an accident.

Then he scoured several more articles quickly. None of them even hinted that the police were looking for her. Did she know that? Maybe that’s why she jumped and ran away every time she saw a cop in uniform?

He glanced up as the trio of older women hugged Eva and walked out. ChiChi gave him a quick wink before she left.

“Well, what was that all about?” he asked, watching her return the empty cups and plates to the back room.

“I like them.” She smiled up at him.

He raised his eyebrows. “Even after they made you cry?”

She shrugged and glanced out the window. “It was past due.”

“So, you want to talk about this?” He turned his laptop around. The picture of her and Kade was still on the screen.

She shrugged again and walked past him. “Not particularly.” She pulled out a bottle of water and started drinking it. “It was a lifetime ago.”

“Don’t you find it funny that the daughter of the Coffee King doesn’t drink coffee?” He leaned against the bar as he brushed a finger down her arm.

She chuckled. “Call it one of my only ways of rebelling.” She downed the rest of the water. “Now, if you’ll excuse me.” She nodded to the bathroom.

His eyes narrowed. “You’re not going to try to climb out the window again, are you?”

She smiled as she walked by him. “My days of running are over,” she said softly and patted him on the cheek.

Her hips swayed as she walked away and he wondered what would come next. How had he come to care so much about her in such a short time?

Walking over to wipe down the booth with a clean rag, he spotted the bag from Boulder Holder, the store next door, and bit his bottom lip as he glanced nervously towards the bathroom door.

Picking it up, he peeked inside and saw red lace, and shut it again with a groan. Damn.

The woman was going to be the death of him.

Chapter Seven

Eva took several deep breaths as she leaned against the bathroom door. Closing her eyes, she thought about the conversation she’d just had with three of the nicest, but oddest women she’d ever met.

She held in a giggle as she rolled her shoulders and realized that all the tension from before was gone.

For the past year, she’d done everything in her power to keep everything in. Now, it felt wonderful to open up. Even if it was to strangers. Maybe that was why it was so much easier?

She thought about all the friends she’d left behind in Seattle. Her family. Kade.

Her head throbbed and she walked over to the sink to splash water on her face. Why did her past hold so much anxiety for her?

It had to be more than just Nate. She thought back to the pressure she’d been under. Pressure from her family to finish school. Her father had been trying to get her to change from her journalist degree to a business one. So she could get her feet wet in the family business.

She looked up at the mirror and looked deep into her own eyes. There wasn’t a drop of Coffee King behind them. No matter how much she thought about it, toiled over it, she would never be what her family wanted her to be.

She sighed and rolled her shoulders. Maybe that, along with the guilt over Nate had led her to run.

She leaned against the sink and closed her eyes as she crossed her arms over her chest. Sure, Rafe had been right. Long ago she’d come to realize that there hadn’t really been anything she could have done. Even if she’d had a full night’s sleep the evening before, it hadn’t been what caused her to miss seeing the truck.

Nate had been telling her one of his “stories.” He’d been so animated when he talked. She loved watching his face light up as he spoke about something. This time it was how he’d won the science fair project. He’d gotten a gift card for fifty dollars and wanted to spend the money on something special for their folks.

She’d tried to talk him into spending it on video games, but Nate wasn’t like that. His only thought was to share the joy.

She’d glanced down at him, for just a moment. Seeing his smiling face look back at her as they had decided to buy movie tickets and take their parents to the latest sci-fi that Nate wanted to see.

When she’d glanced back up, the BMW had drifted too close to the white line.

She cut her thoughts off and tried to block the next moments of her memory from surfacing.

It had been an accident. Nothing more.

By the time she walked out of the bathroom, she was even more exhausted than before.

Rafe surprised her by standing directly outside the door. He held up the bag with bright pink letters, Boulder Holder, on it.

“So”—his eyebrows rose and fell— “when do you think you can try these on?”

She laughed and grabbed the bag from him. “Well, since you peeked, never.” She rushed past him, only to have his hands grip her hips and pull her close.

When his lips brushed the side of her neck, just under her ear, she felt all the worry drain from her.

Somehow, the man had the power to energize her. More than any of her family’s coffee ever could. He nibbled up her neck until she wiggled free.

“If you’re good”—she tucked the bag behind her back— “I might try on one or two items.” She watched his eyes heat as he moved slowly towards her.

“How good?” It was almost a growl.

“How about, taking me out to dinner.”

He nodded, still moving slowly towards her as she continued to back up.

“Dessert…” She felt her mouth go dry at the look he was giving her.

He nodded again.

“Back rub?” It came out as a whisper.

He smiled and easily closed the distance between them. “And?” he said as his arms wrapped around her waist.

“Foot rub,” she added, her mind going almost completely blank.

“Anything,” he said, just before he laid his lips gently over hers.

Her heart did a little skip, then settled softly into her chest as she wrapped her arms around his shoulders.

Over the next few days, Eva enjoyed her time with Rafe. He fulfilled all of her demands, spoken or not. The man had a way with his hands. He listened to her—not just listened, but heard her. Heard her meaning, the emotions behind every word. Something she’d never experienced before in her life.

She found herself growing more comfortable around him and even opened up a little more about her feelings and past.

She loved working at the cafe; she even grew to like a handful of people that came in on a regular basis.

Rafe gave her a bigger advance and drove her to a small shopping area where she proceeded to purchase several other outfits, better suited for sitting behind the counter of a coffee shop. She even grabbed a few toiletries she’d missed having in the past year. Things like her own brush, makeup, and sexy shoes. She glanced down and smiled at the polish on her toenails and sighed. She’d missed having color on her toes.

She’d been born and raised around the elite. And if she had to admit it, she’d held a small disliking to them all. One of the main things that had attracted her to Kade in the first place—he’d despised his father, therefore despising all the gifts and wealth that came with the last name of Willison.

Which, as a young twenty-year-old in her second year of college, only made her like him even more.

But after Nate, she’d changed. Taking the year off, she’d found out more about herself than anyone could. She’d been truly alone for the past year. But, looking back at her time, she doubted she would have survived if she’d stuck around. Her folks would have probably shoved her in counseling for her “drinking problem.”

No, what she’d needed, she’d gotten. Alone time with her guilt. Time for it to run its course.

She shielded her mind from anything beyond that, and switched her mind to focus on Rafe.

Each day they talked about themselves. She opened up to him a little more, and he toldher stories about his family. About going to college and wanting to become apsychologist.

How, after his parents’ death, he’d been left to care for his sisters and had pretty much played counselor ever since.

She’d gotten use to ChiChi and her gang coming in on an almost daily basis. The women doted on her. She loved the attention, and more importantly, loved the way the women treated her like she was family.

She met Cara, Rafe’s sister, and instantly liked the woman. He had two nieces, who looked just like their mother. Cara was a petite auburn-haired woman with a smile that could light up the room.

Rafe spoiled the little girls rotten every time they came into the shop. And she made sure to save them a couple of M&M cookies they loved.

Just thinking about Rafe did strange things to her insides. She really enjoyed spending the nights with him. Wrapped up in his strong arms, naked, sweaty, and sated from their lovemaking.

God the man could move. He enjoyed the items she’d bought at the boutique next door so much, she spent more of her advance getting a few extra things for him to enjoy.

She didn’t know how much longer things would last, but she wanted to cherish the time she had.

That was the one lesson she’d learned in the past year. Take what you could; you never knew when it would be gone.

They had just opened up shop one day when a busty brunette came rushing towards them.

“There you are,” the woman said, rushing directly into Rafe’s arms.

“What are you doing here?” He frowned and stepped back from the woman’s embrace.

“Cara called me,” the woman said, moving closer and taking Rafe’s hands. The woman’s eyes traveled quickly over to where Eva stood.

Eva’s eyebrows shot up at the look she’d gotten.

“Who’s this?” the woman said in a tone that Eva understood.

Eva was, at the moment, the other woman. Putting on her fake, fuck-you smile, she extended her hand. “Evangella Chapman.”

“Roslyn.” The woman glanced down at her hand, but didn’t budge. “Rafe, I’d like a few words with you.”

Rafe sighed, then nodded. “Can you man the store for a few minutes?” he asked Eva, who just raised her eyebrows a little more in response.

Then he pleased her by moving the two steps to her and placing a heated kiss on her lips. “This won’t take long,” he said under his breath.

She’d been enjoying his kiss too much to hear the woman’s shocked gasp.

***

“So it’s true,” Roslyn said, crossing her arms over her impressive chest.

He shut the storage room door behind him and waited. When she didn’t continue, he asked. “What’s true?”

“That you’re back?” she supplied.

“For a while,” he answered.

Roslyn’s eyes narrowed. “Cara said...”

“I don’t care what my sister told you,” he started. Although he highly doubted Cara had called Roslyn at all. More like Roslyn and Cara had bumped into one another and his ex-fiancée had whittled everything she could out of his sister.

“So you’re not staying?” Roslyn frowned slightly.

“Why would it matter to you?” he asked, gaining the stare of daggers from Roslyn.

“Because...” she started and he watched her bottom lip puff out. “We were once...”

He laughed. “What? Almost married?” He jerked his shoulders. “Glad that mistake didn’t happen.”

She glared at him. “Just because...”

“You couldn’t commit to just one man?” he supplied. “Or were you going to say, you were marrying me only for my money?” He tilted his head. “But, I regress. I’m being rude. Go ahead.” He nodded towards her.

“You haven’t changed one bit.”

He smiled. “Now here is something we can agree on. I still find it repulsive that a person cheats on a relationship. I still find it disgusting that that same person cheats on the relationship the night before making the big commitment. Oh, and I find it even more unforgiving when that person posts pictures and a video of the act on social media for the entire world to witness.”

“It was a mistake,” she started, causing him to laugh.

“Yes, I heard you only meant to send the photos and video to the man in question instead of uploading them to the whole world.”

“No, I mean, it was a mistake to sleep with Jeffery.”

He laughed again. “No, the mistake was mine. In not seeing you for what you are.” He reached for the door handle. He’d lost the steam and the anger months ago. After deciding his life was better off without his long-standing girlfriend from school.

They’d gone through everything together. She’d lied to him the entire time.

“Roslyn.” She stopped just outside the door and glanced over at him. Her eyes were dry, but he could tell she was hurt. “Someday, somewhere out there you’ll find the perfect person.” His eyes moved over her head and landed on Eva, sitting behind the bar, looking directly at him. “Someone who tells you the truth, believes in you, someone who sets your world on fire.” He smiled at Eva.

Then he turned back to Roslyn who was looking over at Eva as well.

“Good luck,” she whispered, then turned on her heels and waltzed out of the shop.

When he walked over behind the bar, Eva tilted her head.

“Mind telling me what that was all about?” she asked.

Instead of answering, he gathered her up and kissed her until the bell above the door chimed again.

“Damn.” He chuckled and pulled away. “We will continue this later.” He rested his forehead on hers and smiled.

He turned to greet the new customers only to feel Eva stiffen beside him.

“Mom? Dad?” She took a step back as the couple rushed towards her. Her hands went up in defense. Her eyes zeroed in on his, begging for help.

“I”—she shook her head quickly— “I can’t do this.” She rushed from behind the bar and ran out the back.

“Let her go.” He stopped her father from chasing her.

“Who the hell are you?” The man turned on him. “We’ve been searching for our daughter for over a year,” he growled, his arms wrapped around his wife’s shoulders as she cried. His eyes were glued to the back door.

“I’m Rafe.” He held out a hand. “I’m the man that’s in love with your daughter.”

Chapter Eight

Eva didn’t get far. When she didn’t hear anyone coming after her, she sat down on the deck stairs and buried her face in her hands as tears streamed down her face.

They looked so much older, she thought as she cried. Her mother had lost twenty pounds, easily. Her father, well, his hair was a whole lot greyer than the last time she’d seen him.

In the past year, she’d avoided the news. Avoided any means of finding out about them. She’d even avoided hearing about Nate’s funeral.

The thought of it had her heart aching. Several times in the past, she’d broken into places, looking for pills she could take to remove the pain. But each time, she’d come up empty.

Then in LA, things had turned scary. So, she hitched several rides and ended up in the back of some guy’s truck heading into wine country. That was until the old man pulled off to the side of the road and tried to grope her. So she’d hit him over the head with a chunk of wood and stolen his truck.

She’d gotten nervous after seeing a cop car just outside of St. Helena, and decided to ditch the truck. She’d seen enough movies, but putting the clunker into neutral and pushing it off to the side of the road hadn’t turned out the way she’d planned. She’d missed seeing the transformer buried behind the bushes. When the truck hit the small box, the entire roadside lit up with sparks.

She’d been so scared and worried someone had seen her that she spent the next few days hiding out in the woods. She’d gotten soaking wet from the rains that followed and believed she’d just reached the end of her trip. That was until she stumbled upon the old cabin.

She’d easily found the key under the mat and had helped herself to any canned food there was. The place had been a shack, really. The place smelled of dust, but was comfortable enough that she’d planned on sticking around until she decided her next step. Since there wasn’t any running water or electricity, she planned a few trips to other homes nearby to break into them, looking for anything she could use.

Now she knew it was Rafe’s cabin she’d stayed at. She’d asked him why he held onto it if he always stayed with his sisters.

“It was my dad’s,” he’d answered. “We used to go hunting there. We’d lock ourselves away all weekend, just the two Rowan men.” He’d smiled at the memory.

“Why don’t you go back?” she’d asked.

His smile had faded— “Too many memories. My dad died a few years back”—then he’d changed the subject.

Too many memories. That statement played over in her mind. Maybe that was why seeing her parents hurt so bad? Too many memories of Nate.

She couldn’t look into her father’s eyes without seeing Nate’s. Pain shot down her arms and legs as her tears slid down her nose.

Nate. He’d been so full of fun. He’d always laughed, joked, and questioned everything. She could still remember the first time she’d seen his goofy face.

He was such an ugly baby. A burst of laughter escaped her and she buried her face deeper in her hands. It was true. His head was too big, his eyes were swollen, and he was an odd color of purple and red. But then he’d looked up at her and smiled, and she’d fallen in love with her little brother.

Her parents hadn’t planned for another child. She and her brother were eight years apart. Who waits eight years to have another kid?

She closed her eyes on the pain. Nate hadn’t been planned, but he’d been the joy of all three of their lives. He’d been the only reason her family had stayed together. Before him, her parents had been using the word divorce an awful lot.

In her young mind, she’d believed she hadn’t been strong enough to hold them together, but Nate’s love had. Now he was gone.

Her shoulders hunched.

“You okay, hellcat?” Just hearing Rafe’s voice soothed her heart.

She sniffled and wiped her nose on the sleeve of her jacket.

“Not really.” Her eyes moved up to him. He was standing over her, then moved to sit beside her. His arm came around her shoulders and pulled her close.

“You’ve got to see them sometime,” he said.

“I know.” She sighed.

“Are you afraid?” he asked as she rested her head on his shoulder.

“Not really.”

“Then what?”

“Sad,” she said, closing her eyes and turning her face towards the sun, enjoying its warmth. “I miss him so much.” She felt tears roll down her face again.

“They miss you,” he added, causing her to hunch her shoulders.

“They miss Nate,” she added.

“And you.” The voice came from behind them and she stiffened. Turning, she saw her parents standing a few feet away from them. Her father’s arm was around her mother’s shoulders. Tears streamed down both of their faces. “We miss you,” he repeated.

“So much,” her mother added. “Too much.”

When they both opened their arms, she rushed into them and held on tight.

***

Rafe sat in his sister’s kitchen and occasionally glanced over at the trio in the living room. He’d heard a lot of sniffling and even some laughter. Which, if he believed any of the psychology books he’d read throughout the years, was a good sign.

The oil in the pan splashed out and burned the back of his hand for the fifth time, causing him to curse under his breath.

“Are you sure you’re okay in there?” Eva’s mother, Julia, asked for the third time.

“Everything’s fine,” he called back. “It’s almost ready.”

What had he been thinking? Cooking for the family. He hadn’t been thinking. That’s why. He’d only thought about keeping Eva in his sights. He didn’t want her to slip out of town with her parents without him getting a chance to tell her how he felt.

Hell, he’d blurted it out to her parents easy enough, but hadn’t the nerve to tell her himself. Smooth move.

Moving the chicken from the stove, he tossed the salad, poured the rice into a bowl, and laid the chicken slices over the vegetables.

Then he walked over, popped the top on his sister’s most expensive bottle of wine, and poured three glasses, then pulled out a bottle of water for Eva.

“Something smells wonderful,” Eva said, walking over to him and wrapping her arms around him. “Thank you,” she whispered just before she laid her lips on his.

“Dinner’s ready.” He smiled down at her.

“I can’t tell you how much we appreciate you cooking for us,” Harry said, walking into the room behind his wife.

“Rafe has a knack for cooking,” Eva said as she smiled up at him.

“Thank you,” Harry said again. “For everything.” His eyes landed on his daughter. “Eva told us...what you did for her.”

He nodded and swallowed the lump in his throat.

Over dinner, the room grew quiet. When the food was almost gone, Harry glanced up at him and asked him about his career.

Rafe talked briefly about finishing school only months before and how he was looking for a place to settle down and start his own practice.

“Have you thought about Seattle?” her father asked.

Eva’s eyes turned towards his and he could see the fear spike behind them.

“Actually, since my family is here, locally, I was thinking of opening a practice in St. Helena.” He had been thinking about opening shop here. For years he’d done everything he could to leave St. Helena behind him, but now, it just seemed right.

Harry nodded. “You can’t go wrong with sticking close to home.” He reached across the table and took his wife’s hand. “We both grew up in Auburn. The business headquarters are in Seattle, but we still have the same house Eva and Nate grew up in, outside of the city.”

This time, at the mention of her brother’s name, all Rafe saw behind her amber eyes, was love.

“I’m going to go back with them,” she blurted out, causing his heart to stop altogether.

“What?” He turned quickly towards her. “You are?”

“Just for a while,” she said, looking down at their joined hands. “Then I plan on coming back to St. Helena.” Her eyes moved up to meet his. “For good.”

Her parents quietly excused themselves from the table.

“You are?” He felt his heart kick-start again.

She nodded, a smile slowly spreading on her lips. “I had hoped you’d go with me. Dad told me what you said.”

His heart stopped again; this time, before it started up, it did several flips first.

“Okay...” He reached for his wine, only to have her hand stop him. Her parents moved out of the booth smoothly, and walked into the next room quietly.

“I’d like to hear it from you, instead.” She shifted until his hand covered her heart.

He swallowed, his eyes locked on hers.

“Eva, I love you. I don’t know when it happened, but there it is. Raw and the truth.” He held in a chuckle. “I can’t imagine a day without you. I want to fall asleep with your eyes being the last thing I see at night and wake up seeing your smile first thing in the morning. I want to...damn.” He jerked out of his chair and bumped his knee, cursing again. “Hang on.” He threw up a finger. “I have”—he rushed from the room, jogging past her parents sitting on the sofa, who were looking at him like he was crazy.

He rushed into his bathroom, yanked open the door and cursed again. Swooping up the small mess, he carted it into the kitchen, only to have Eva gasp.

“I want to have this with you.” He set the small tan and white dog into her lap. “Guess I’ll be the first one to clean up Bob’s mess.” He glanced back towards the hallway with a frown and tried not to think of the hell his sister was going to give him for it.

Then he knelt down beside her. “I got him a few days ago. He had to get his shots and a few things I hold very dear to myself, chopped off, otherwise I would have given him to you then.”

He watched as tears streamed down her cheeks.

“Eva, I want this.” He nodded to the dog, then over to her family. “I want you. If you’ll have me.”

Instead of answering, she wrapped her arms around his neck and held on tight.

“That had better be a yes, young lady,” her father scolded from the other side of the room. “Any man who has balls enough to propose shortly after meeting the family, is man enough to marry our daughter. Wouldn’t you agree, Julia?”

“Yes,” her mother sniffled and burst out. 

“Yes!” Eva said, placing her lips on his, as the puppy started licking them both. “On one condition.”

He sighed. “Anything.”

“His name is not Bob.” She laughed as he closed his arms around his family. His life. His love.

Other books by Jill Sanders

The Pride Series

Finding Pride

Discovering Pride

Returning Pride

Lasting Pride

Serving Pride

Red Hot Christmas

My Sweet Valentine

Return To Me

Rescue Me

The Secret Series

Secret Seduction

Secret Pleasure

Secret Guardian

Secret Passions

Secret Identity

Secret Sauce

The West Series

Loving Lauren

Taming Alex

Holding Haley

Missy’s Moment

Breaking Travis

Roping Ryan

Wild Bride

Corey’s Catch

The Grayton Series

Last Resort

Someday Beach

Rip Current

In Too Deep

Swept Away

Lucky Series

Unlucky In Love

Sweet Resolve

Silver Cove Series

Silver Lining

French Kiss

Entangled Series – Paranormal Romance

The Awakening

The Beckoning… Coming Soon

The Ascension… Coming Soon

For a complete list of books: http://jillsanders.com

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental.

WHERE I BELONG by Jill Sanders

No part of this book may be reproduced, scanned, or distributed in any printed or electronic form without permission. Please do not participate in or encourage piracy of copyrighted materials in violation of the author’s rights. Purchase only authorized editions.

About the Author

Jill Sanders is The New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of Sweet Small-Town Contemporary Romance Series, Thrilling Romantic Suspense Series, Sexy Western Romance Series, and Intriguing Paranormal Romance novels. She continues to lure new readers with her sweet and sexy stories. Her books are available in every English-speaking country and in audiobooks as well as being translated into different languages.

Born as an identical twin to a large family, she was raised in the Pacific Northwest and later relocated to Colorado for college and a successful IT career before discovering her talent as a writer. She now makes her home along the Emerald Coast in Florida where she enjoys the beach, hiking, swimming, wine-tasting, and of course writing.

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Website: http://JillSanders.com