Page 58 of Night and Day

“What’s this?” He cocked an eyebrow.

“Brunch. Chef made eggs Florentine with smoked salmon, plus there is a selection of today’s freshly baked pastries.”

His amber gaze focused on me. “Eggs Florentine is my favorite. How could you know that?”

I gave him a smug look. “I have my ways, Mr. Langston. They make me very good at my job.”

He watched me with an intense look. “I’m starting to see that.”

“Come on, I’ll show you the cabin, then we can eat.” I pushed open the door.

Inside, the cabin was decorated in a modern, rustic style. There was a cozy living area off to the side. The overstuffed couch and armchair begged you to curl up and linger. But the large, four-poster bed dominated the space. It was made of warm wood and had white, gauzy hangings.

I tried not to think about being near Ro with a romantic, fairytale bed just feet away.

He pushed open a door and studied the bathroom. Riverstone accented the large walk-in shower, and a claw-foot tub sat under the window. It was very romantic.

Back in the living area, he passed the armchair and comfy couch that were in front of the fireplace, trailing his fingers over the fabric.

“It’s really nice, Tessa.”

I smiled. “Are you hungry?”

“I am now.”

We settled on the porch, and I pulled the lids off the dishes.

He sat back in his chair. “There’s a great view of the resort from here.”

“Yes. And the main part of Windward there.” I pointed.

“Where do you live?”

“East Windward. That’s where the locals make their homes.” I pointed. “It’s a little less glitzy.”

“You can escape the tourists when needed.”

“Yes.” I lifted a glass of juice and sipped. Then I lifted my fork and took a bite of perfectly cooked eggs. The lemony butter tang of the sauce hit my taste buds.

Ro ate his eggs and spinach, and relaxed even more.

“This is what I like to give our guests. The sensation of leaving their busy lives behind. Relaxing. Taking it slower. Taking everything in.”

His gaze leveled on me.

I plowed on. “The hotel was designed to fit Windward. Our guests love it. As you’ve mentioned, there are things that can be upgraded and improved, but if you knock it down and build something modern and glitzy…” I shook my head and reached a hand across the table. “You’ll be ruiningthis. This special something.”

His big hand closed over mine and I had to control my jolt. Sensations zipped through me.

“I think it would be a shame to knock it down,” he murmured.

I smiled, relief bursting inside me. “I knew you’d see the charm of the place.”

His lips quirked. “My hotel manager kind of beat me over the head with it.”

“With something this important, you can’t be subtle.”

He squeezed my hand then sat back in his chair, looking out at the view again.