If this had been Phoenix Finlay, I would have said absolutely not. But Ophelia I could live with. Besides, the rental income would pay the utilities on this place. Business-wise it just made sense.
“I’ll have Dad get some workers up here to get you a room put up as soon as I sign the paperwork on this place.”
She was grinning brightly. “How long do you think that will be?”
“Later this week.”
She clapped her hands excitedly. “This is going to be so much fun!”
I hoped so. “You want a job? Because I’ll need office help once I open the studio up.”
“Sure! Why the hell not? Can we just take the rent out of my paycheck?”
“That would be fine with me.”
We talked some more before Ophelia left to tell her mother her plans. I went over and pulled myself up to sit on the bar in the kitchen. I could make a life here. It wasn’t in the wealthy part of Rosemary Beach where the big houses were and the club was located. It was right beside it, but it felt separate. I wasn’t leaving town but I was starting a new life in this town.
My phone rang and echoed in the large empty space. I glanced at it. It was Eli. Smiling, I pressed answer. “Hello.”
“How’s the place look?” he asked. I had told him I was coming to check it out today in a text message I’d sent him last night.
“Perfect. I think it’s going to be perfect.”
“Damn. I was hoping you’d think it sucked and come to Sea Breeze to shop around.” He was teasing but I knew that he’d also be pleased if that did happen.
“You could always come to Rosemary Beach,” I replied.
He was quiet for a moment. “Don’t tempt me.”
I wondered if he would actually do that. Maybe a fresh start for him was what he needed. “I wouldn’t complain if you did,” I added
He chuckled and added, “You’d be hard to say no to. But I have a job. Can’t just up and run away.”
He had a point. “I know. Wanted to clarify if you needed an adventure I would be happy to be the beginning of yours.” I’d been teasing, but he had gone quiet.
I chewed on my lip nervously. Maybe I shouldn’t have said that. We didn’t talk about that night much. I wasn’t sure if he remembered asking me if he was the beginning of my adventure. I waited for him to say something and worried the whole time he was silent.
“I might consider it if we could have another go at sex on the beach. I think about it a lot. Wish to God I hadn’t been so damn drunk.”