Temptation on Ocean Drive - Jennifer Probst Page 0,2
forgot to get her a pink winter dress for Christmas. Purple and red won’t cut it.”
“She got everything she wanted on her list and more. You gave her an amazing holiday.”
She nodded, accepting the praise that meant more than he could imagine. She was always trying to make up for Zoe not having a father, especially around important holidays. Though she tried to remind herself her daughter had an extended family that gave her all the security she needed. “Thanks.” Her next words were uttered grudgingly. “She’s still crazy about that American Doll you gave her. The others have been neglected, but she plays with yours all the time.”
“I’m glad.”
“I still think it was too expensive.” Watching Zoe’s face light up with delight after she tore open Gabe’s present had caused a slither of unease. Bella was afraid he was becoming too familiar—dropping by out of the blue, showering Zoe with unexpected gifts, weaving his way into the folds of her family with his carefree charm. He was even tight with her future brother-in-law, Carter, and they went out on a regular basis. Bella worried that Gabe would hurt too many people when he eventually decided to leave their small beach town.
He winked. “Nonsense, it was my pleasure. Gotta know what girls want, right?”
Her insides cooled. Oh yes, Gabe Garcia knew exactly what females wanted. He’d been dubbed the Bachelor of the Cape for two years in a row—a designation started by the magazine Exit Zero that spread into the New Jersey blogs and papers. He’d gotten even more publicity when they found out he worked for Sunshine Bridal, and for a while, clients had poured in just to work with Gabe. His escapades with women were famous, and excited gossip swarmed around him on a regular basis. He was their own local Jake Gyllenhaal, with a long line of females begging to end his single status.
Not that she blamed anyone. The man was like walking kryptonite. One look and women wanted to drop their panties.
Gabe nailed the tall, dark, and handsome vibe like no one else. His hair was thick and coal black, with a natural wave that set off his high forehead and bold brows. Inky eyes were framed by thick lashes and highly slashed cheekbones, slanting down to an honest-to-goodness square jaw—with a cleft. That manly jaw seemed to be consistently shadowed with a hint of stubble, giving him an edgy pirate look. With his impeccable clothes, charming smile, and graceful, lean body, the combination was lethal.
Her sister Taylor had pronounced him bangable on sight, but acknowledged she didn’t want him to fall in love with her and ruin their work relationship. Avery was more attracted to his brain and easy ability to dazzle brides and grooms by the dozens and grow their business.
As for Bella, the moment she looked at him, she’d scented danger. He was too much to settle down in a small beach town for long. Eventually he’d be courted to a bigger wedding company and leave them all behind with a casual wave and a sexy wink.
He’d take their business with him, and they’d be forced to deal with the fallout. God knew she was an expert in that territory. She had no desire to visit that place again, so she’d learned to keep her distance and watch for any signs of restlessness. She needed to protect her family.
Over the years, as Avery and Taylor grew closer to Gabe, Bella had made sure to always be polite, nice, but professional. No late-night cocktails after work together or long, serious chats about their hopes and dreams in life.
Just business.
Oh, he’d tried to close the distance many times, but she’d refused. Even when she caught the flare of hurt in his eyes and the flicker of confusion on his face. After a while, they’d eased into a cordial yet tepid relationship that worked for both of them. It would have been perfect except for one small problem.
Zoe.
Her daughter worshipped Gabe, and he worshipped her right back. They’d fallen into a relationship that frustrated Bella, but there was nothing she could do. Now that he was a full-time wedding planner, there’d be even more contact. She had to make sure the business-only rules between them remained steadfast.
Mostly, it worked out. Bella usually handled the majority of her clients alone, pulling in Taylor when she needed extra help. Gabe had offered his assistance in the past, but she’d always declined, claiming she was able to handle everything.