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“I’m dating a lovely man.” Her mom’s voice warmed. “He’s a doctor. A skin specialist. He works so hard.”
Her mother rattled on about her new man, and only needed a few murmurs of agreement from Hollis.
“That’s great, Mom. I’m glad you’re happy.”
“Hollis…” Her mom paused. “I hate to ask, but my allowance ran dry early this month. I needed some new clothes.”
Hollis provided a condo and monthly allowance for her mother. Thankfully, she didn’t often overspend. She might not like Hollis being an actress, but she certainly liked the benefits. That said, her mother always hated asking for money.
“I’ll transfer some more money into your account.”
“Thank you,” her mom said quietly.
“Look, I need to go. I’ll call you again soon.”
“Yes, all right. I need to get to an appointment. Goodbye, Hollis.”
“Bye, Mom.” She ended the call and stifled a sigh.
“You didn’t tell your mom about what’s happening?” Sawyer asked.
She glanced over at him. “No. I don’t want to involve her. She’ll blame me for choosing such a frivolous profession. Mom didn’t think I needed a vacation from my ‘playacting.’” Old bitterness welled.
“She should be proud of you. Of everything you’ve achieved. And she definitely should be worried about you.”
“She…doesn’t have it in her.” Hollis lifted her chin. “Besides, I’m proud of myself, and worried about myself, too.”
He reached over and took her hand. “You’re not alone.”
Her heart skipped a beat.
They arrived at her house and Sawyer carried the box inside.
The curiosity was killing her. “What is it?”
“It’s a gift for you.”
“Really?” Delight filled her. She often got trinkets and gift bags when she attended functions, but they were neverpersonalized gifts. Tave always got her a gift card for her favorite day spa for her birthday and Christmas.
She opened the box and looked inside. It was a new coffee machine.
“Oh.” She grinned as she pulled it out.
“So you can get your caffeine hit a bit sooner. Well, I guess this gift is actually for Archer, but I got it for you.”
She was so touched. “Thank you.” She rose up on her toes and pressed a kiss to his cheek.
His arm circled her waist and squeezed. “You’ve got time to make a cup before we need to get ready to go to Mama’s.”
She nipped at his lips. “I can think of a better way to fill the time.”
His arm tightened. “I like the way you think, Ms. Stanton.”
CHAPTER ELEVEN
Sawyer led Hollis toward Mama’s.
The charming building was nestled in a grove of palm trees, right on a picturesque beach. A hand-carved sign over the door saidMama’s.