Brick grinned. “But not Aspen.”
Kane grinned back. “You got it bad, huh? Listen, I appreciate the offer but I actually have a date tonight. An overnight one, so I won’t be coming back to your place.”
Brick’s eyes lit up. Yeah, he’d done the right thing by lying. Aspen didn’t like to sleep over at Brick’s place when Kane was there, so it was best for him to make an excuse and give them the space. It was time Kane figured out a new plan.
When his life in New York blew up and he was released from jail, he’d found himself with nothing but a suitcase of clothes and some credit cards that wouldn’t last long. All of those years in the property development industry, working his ass off night and day, only rewarded him with betrayal and the threat of a fraud conviction. An image of his old mentor, John, flashed in his mind, and he fought back the bitterness. How many times had he been taught his trust always led to pain? Between his asshole father and the boss who’d ruined him, Kane learned quickly not to depend on anyone but himself.
The memory was still a raw ache he doubted would ever heal. With his brother, Derek, in rehab, and no other family, Kane found himself seeking out his best friend as a last resort. He’d headed to OBX and hoped Brick would take in his sorry ass.
And his friend had. No questions asked. It was supposed to be a quick stop to get his shit together, but as time slowly passed, Kane realized the beach town was a place he could make a new start.
For years, his world had been controlled with the pursuit of more. More money; more power; more opportunities. It was a gnawing hunger he never seemed to satisfy, but when it was all ripped away, he realized maybe Corolla was the perfect town to re-create himself.
The people here seemed different. Instead of with suspicion and distance, he found most welcomed him with enthusiasm and openness. He liked knowing his neighbors and greeting the same people at the coffee shop and bars. Brick had introduced him to his friends, offered a guest room as long as he needed, and hired him on the spot to be a tour guide.
Kane was surprised how much he’d taken to the job switch. Learning the history and facts about the wild horses was satisfying. Much different from hard sales, manipulative moves, and high-value, cutthroat contracts. Teaching others about the land and animals that lived here gave him some peace, and he’d taken to driving out there sometimes to think about his next step and watch them race across the sand.
Brick interrupted his thoughts. “Listen, can you be careful about who you date, please? I told you—this town is different than New York. One night means something. You don’t want these women to be discussing you at the support group.”
Kane waved a hand in the air. “Not worried. You and Aspen have a great time. I’ll see you in the morning.”
He walked out and wondered where he’d crash tonight. Probably a hotel room outside of Corolla so no one spotted him. Soon he’d be able to get his own rental place, but he’d need a steady job to pay the bills. There were some possibilities he’d look into. Kane doubted he could find a high-powered property development firm out here, but it was time to start looking.
Thoughts of everything he’d left behind competed with the pull of a bright, clean future where no one knew. Once again, he’d fought his way out of ugliness, but he was able to cherish the two most important things he’d managed to protect.
His freedom.
And his brother.
Kane focused on the other emotion flickering inside him, refusing to be dimmed.
Hope.
Sierra looked longingly at the television and wondered if she could cancel.
The week had slowly turned awful, and she craved pj’s, a glass of wine, and the new erotic thriller on Netflix. Instead, she’d promised Aspen they’d all go out so she could finally meet the mysterious Kane. Normally, her sister would understand she was tired, but lately, Aspen was all giddy over Brick and wouldn’t stop bugging her to resume dating.
No. Thanks.
The knock on the door made her grumble as she went and opened it.
“Why are you not ready?” Inez asked, dark eyes squinted in suspicion. “Don’t even think you’re ghosting tonight.”
She gave her friend a long-suffering groan. As usual, Inez looked gorgeous in her skinny jeans and black crop top. The outfit was simple but emphasized her curvy butt and flat abs. Her braids fell down to her waist in a fall of sexiness that made every man she passed take a second look. Her nose piercing flashed as she shook her head and marched in. Inez was a numbers genius and ran her own finance firm, though most couldn’t match her tats and rebel style with the staid, boring reputation of math.
Sierra had fallen for her immediately, loving her unapologetic ways and strong personality. Once Brooklyn joined in, their trio was a perfectly balanced circle of trust and fun.
“I had a hell of a day. Pru’s on vacay and the store was mobbed. I have a buyer’s trip this week and need to research. And my new shoes needed breaking in so my feet hurt.”
Inez gave a snort and threw her purse down on the table. “Don’t care. It’s Friday night and you’re not staying home alone again. Aspen will kick your ass if you don’t show.” With a snap of her fingers, she headed toward the bedroom. “Your house is amazing but it’s becoming a prison, girlfriend.”
Sierra trudged after her friend, looking around. She may have bought the house with her ex, but she’d turned it into her true home. Each detail was carefully chosen to work with the décor of an elegant beach retreat. Home was her haven and the place she felt most comfortable, other than Flirt.
Shades of cream, butter, and bright white created a neutral background to emphasize the pops of color splashed in accents and thoughtful details amidst the rooms. Sierra kept her beach theme threaded through with aquamarine seashell pillows, sea glass portraits of seagulls, and gorgeous handmade vases holding colorful wildflowers. The throw rugs were aquamarine. Wicker baskets and driftwood décor added to the chic vibe, but the furniture was oversized and comfy. The kitchen with its massive island, multiple granite countertops, and generous padded barstools was a chef’s dream.
As they reached her bedroom, Inez yanked open the closet and studied the options. Her king-size bed was set on a massive platform with a silver velvet headboard. Shades of lavender and light gray created a soft, feminine retreat. A shimmery crystal chandelier sparkled in the light. A generous cosmetic center with a padded stool and beveled mirror sat in the corner. The chaos of dozens of brushes and bottles were carefully organized in various containers. Frilly lace curtains covered the windows. Each detail had been lovingly crafted to make her feel indulged.
“Here. You should look slutty tonight.”
