Page 26 of Whispers and Wildfire
What was the catch?
“What kind of help?”
She clasped her hands together. “Are you ready for this? I’m so excited. It’s going to be such a treat. We’re holding a bachelor auction.”
“Oh no.”
“Oh yes!” Her eyes were bright, and she smiled as she spoke. “Isn’t that the most delightful idea? I came up with it.”
“I’m not surprised.”
“I knew you’d love it.”
“Hmm. Don’t think I love it, to be honest.”
“Oh, don’t be a fuddy-duddy. It’s for a good cause. The winner will get an evening with their bachelor, nothing scandalous.”
“Can’t you get Theo to do it?”
“He’ll be there too.”
I eyed her with skepticism. “Does he know that?”
“I haven’t had a chance to ask him yet, but I’m sure he will. Besides, I only have the two of you left. The Havens need to make a good showing.”
“This isn’t your newest way of trying to set me up with someone, is it? It’s actually a charity auction, and anyone who bids has the chance of winning?”
“Luke, if I wanted to set you up, I’d just do it. I wouldn’t go to all this trouble just to get you a date. Believe it or not, I have other interests besides the love lives of my nephews.”
I raised my eyebrows in disbelief.
She didn’t seem to notice. “Wonderful. I knew you’d agree. Thank you, honey.” She slipped her sunglasses back onand hurried for the door. “Ta-ta for now. I’ll be in touch with details.”
My mouth hung open as the door closed behind her. Agree? When had I agreed?
For a second, I thought about chasing her down. I didn’t want to be auctioned off for charity. Although she was right, the SPS was a good cause. They did a lot for our community.
I took a drink of coffee and headed back to the garage. It was probably easier to just let it happen. I’d have to make sure Theo agreed to go too. I would not be the only Haven brother on the chopping block.
In the meantime, I had too much work to do to worry about Aunt Louise’s shenanigans. Besides, she hadn’t tried to set me up on a date, so I had that going for me.
CHAPTER 8
Melanie
The darkness was so thick,I couldn’t tell if my eyes were open or closed. Which way was up? I reached out my hand, hoping to find something solid to help me get my bearings.
Nothing. Just empty space.
My heart beat uncomfortably hard, and my jaw hurt from clenching my teeth. Fear surged through me in time with my pulse. I wanted to run, but I couldn’t see.
In fact, I couldn’t even move.
What was happening? Where was I?
My arms and legs were suddenly useless. Was I still standing? The world spun in a disconcerting whirl. Up was down, down was up, nothing made sense. I couldn’t move—could hardly breathe.
Someone was near. I could feel him. Feel his breath on the back of my neck. His cold hands about to touch my skin. I opened my mouth to scream, but nothing came out. I was trapped, and he was—
