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“You think Rose is a threat?” Leo asked.
“Not to you or the children physically. I don’t think she’d hurt a soul.”
Stavros was talking in riddles. “Make your point,” he barked.
“She might be a threat to your heart.” He paused and then added, “And you might be a threat to hers.”
Leo flipped onto his back to do crunches and to see Stavros better. “You think she likes me?”
“I do.”
Leo’s heart gave a little leap. “What’s so wrong with that?”
“I watched you lose one woman you loved. I’m not sure how well you would survive another. Plus you’re her boss, and there are the children to consider.”
“Don’t you think I know all of that?” Leo snapped. He increased his pace, irritated with himself for losing his temper.
Stavros’s placid expression didn’t change. “All of that being said, I don’t think you’ll find a better woman.”
“What?” Leo propped himself up on his elbows and straightened his legs.
“You heard me. If I found a woman like Rose, I’d marry her and leave you in a heartbeat.”
“Nice loyalty.” Leo resumed his crunches.
“You’ve put yourself in a difficult position with the secret identity.”
“I know.” Leo exhaled through two crunches.
“We’ve been in tight spots before. You’ll find your way out.”
“I hope she still likes me after she learns the truth.”
“I think she will, though I’d bet she’ll be spitting mad. You might be in the doghouse for a bit.” Stavros smirked.
“So you’re telling me to go for it?”
“I hardly think you need my blessing. I’m your friend, not your father.”
“But?” Leo asked.
“I’m saying, follow your instincts.” Stavros stretched his arms over his head. “They’ve always served you well in the past. Saved our lives a time or two.” He held out his hand to help Leo up.
Leo took it. At eye level with Stavros he said, “Your instincts saved us too. Thanks for having my back.”
“Always.”
CHAPTER SEVEN
Nafplion Part II
Rose was excited and curious to see the foundations of the Papadakis empire on their olive-grove tour. Skirts were preferable in Greece for summer, but she decided leg cover was more important when hiking through who-knew-what-length-of-grass to see the trees. So she’d opted for linen pants—wonderfully breathable—and sturdy, fashionable shoes.
Dressed, fed, and coated in sunscreen, Rose and the children presented themselves at the curb of the hotel to meet Mr. P and Stavros.
Rose thought Stavros looked even more handsome with his skin darkened another shade from sun exposure. She blushed, thinking of her hands on his bare chest, and turned her head, hoping Stavros didn’t see the blush.
The car ride didn’t take long, though Rose wished the seating arrangements were different. Stavros sat up front and Mr. P sat in back with her and the children. They made stilted small talk, with the children carrying the majority of the load of conversation.