do that. Vince is helping me with my portfolio. He’s teaching me some new programs. He works late so he’s there when I am.”
“He’s a good guy. He’s been with the company for twenty-five years.”
“He told me he worked in the mail room when Pierce gave him a shot. He says he’s paying it forward.”
“I’d like to help.”
“I don’t want any favors. I can do this on my own.”
“I believe that.” He spun her around. “I have a feeling you could do anything you set your mind to.” He held her against him. “You’re pretty amazing.”
“You take after your grandfather.” She glanced over at Jack. “You’re very charming.”
“You have no idea how charming I can be.”
“You have a few days to show me.” She brushed her lips across his causing a bit of a commotion inside his boxers. “But now I think I’d like another glass of champagne. It’s really good.”
“Anything your heart desires, Ms. Vercelli.” He placed his hand on her back and guided her to the bar.
I’ll give you anything you want.
Chapter 5
After breakfast on Thursday morning, Spencer walked Coda down the path that led to the spa. The property covered several acres. Coda hadn’t realized there were even more suites and buildings in the back of the mansion where they were staying. The place could accommodate hundreds of guests.
“Are you sure you’re up for this?” Spencer took her hand when they stopped in front of the spa. It surprised her that he’d make contact like that when no one was around to witness it. “This is going above and beyond our terms.”
“I think I can handle a day of pampering.”
“If anyone asks, you can say we met at the Sterling Charity Gala last month. I was there on behalf of the agency. I went alone and stayed about an hour.”
It didn’t make sense that a well-educated, attractive man would seem so lonely.
“You don’t have to go into the details but my mother may ask. I wanted you to have an answer.” He ran his thumb over the top of her hand. She looked down at their connection, indulging in his tenderness. “You have my cell number if you need me.”
“I’ll be fine, but thanks for being so sweet.” She stood up on her toes and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek as his mother and two other women came toward them.
“I told you they were adorable,” Jenna said to her two companions. “Spencer, love, let Coda come hang out with us. I promise we’ll give her back to you.”
“I told you this went above and beyond.” Spencer rolled his eyes. “Those are my aunts.”
“Hi.” Coda let go of Spencer’s hand.
“These are my sister-in-laws, Michele and Anna.” Jenna kissed her cheek.
“It’s nice to meet you,” Coda said. “I’m really looking forward to this.”
“We’re so happy you could join us,” Michele said. “Spencer, you better get to the course. The boys are waiting for you.”
“Your friend will be in good hands,” Anna said.
“Go easy on her.” He looked at his mother. “You especially.”
“Oh, please.” Jenna grabbed Coda’s hand. “What do you think we’re going to do to her?”
“See you later.” Coda turned to leave but Spencer reached for her arm, turning her to face him.
“Have a good afternoon.” He kissed her, lingering at her lips a bit longer than she expected. “I’ll see you later.”
“Yeah.” She bumped into the door when she stepped back. “You too.”
His mother and aunts whispered how sweet the two of them looked together. Heat settled in her cheeks.
“Bye.” Spencer winked as he turned and walked down the path.
Coda watched as he left. They had kissed two times but this was the first time he had initiated it. It meant nothing. He wanted to put on a show for his mother and aunts. Wasn’t that why she was here? To convince his family he had moved on?
“Come on.” Jenna took her hand again. “You can spend time with my son later. Right now I need to get to know the woman who has captivated him.”
“Captivated him?”
They walked into the serene building. The check-in area was small but quiet. The aroma of spearmint assaulted them as soon as they entered. The sound of running water, like a fountain or a waterfall, echoed throughout the hallway.
“I’ve never seen my nephew so taken,” Anna said. “I saw the way you interacted on the dance floor last night. It’s nice to finally see him with a girl who makes him smile.”
“We shouldn’t gossip,” Jenna said. “It isn’t