Page 61 of Igniting Sparks

Bitsy leans in, her voice as sharp as broken glass. “Leo was always the plan. For years, they talked about building a life together—New York, Paris, the stage. And now that he’s back…” She trails off with a saccharine smile. “Well, thank you for keeping her occupied. But it’s time to step aside.”

My fists clench at my sides. “You don’t get to decide who makes her happy.”

She examines her manicured nails. “Don’t I? People have made the mistake of underestimating me in the past. They lived to regret that decision. Just ask her mother.”

“Her mother didn’t make a mistake,” I bite out. “She chose the man she loved.”

Bitsy’s smile tightens. “Perhaps. But ask yourself this. If Mina truly wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps, why is she here at all, trying so hard to follow in mine? You’re in the way, Mr. Hammond. Time to go.”

“Are you threatening me?”

She blinks, unfazed by my anger. “I’m educating you. Don’t toy with me, because I always win.”

I swear, I wouldneverhit a woman.

But damn it, I’m so tempted right now.

“You don’t scare me, lady—and I use that term loosely. You think because you have money and status that you matter more than everyone else, that you’re some generous benefactor granting wishes to the sick and needy. But it’s all bullshit. You’re a tyrant wrapped in designer labels, and you’re the loser here, Bitsy. You missed out on knowing your niece, andMina is one of the most beautiful, kind-hearted women I’ve ever met.”

I’m so wrapped up in my diatribe that I don’t notice when Mina rejoins us.

But the concern etching lines across her face stops me cold as she glances between her aunt and me. “Is everything okay here?”

Shit. No idea how much she heard.

I force a smile and grasp her hand like a lifeline. “Absolutely. Just overwhelmed by all the wedding festivities.”

Mina nods and glides her hand along my bearded jaw. I wonder if she feels the restrained energy vibrating beneath my skin. “Let’s take a break. Get some rest.”

“Actually, I had something planned for us.”

“More wedding stuff?” Mina teases.

“No. Just time together. You and me.”

She tips her head up for a kiss. “Sounds perfect. Aunt Bitsy, we’ll see you later, okay?”

It’s not okay by any stretch, but her aunt covers her dismay with well-practiced poise. “Whatever you need to do, dear.”

But as Mina and I turn to leave the dining area, Bitsy and I lock gazes—and I know this is far from over.

Bitsy claims Leo was always the plan for Mina. What if he still owns a piece of her heart?

What if I’m just a distraction until she remembers the life she truly wants?

Chapter 14

Shark Week and Sweet Nothings

Mina

It might be the silliest idea of my life, but I can’t help it. Braden is, hands down, the sweetest man on the planet. Since our arrival, he’s been protective, congenial, and affectionate.

And now he’s whisked me off to a dessert-and-wine picnic overlooking a secluded pond.

It can’t all be for show, right?

Fine. I’ll admit that part of me wondered if Braden’s plans for the afternoon consisted of us and a locked hotel room, but it seems the man has other ideas.