“Yeah, I’ll count that as a win. Anyway, I’ll finish staining the mantel this week, then I’ll have to wait for some other things to happen before I can set it. Probably a couple of weeks. On Tuesday, I’ll install the rest of the shelving.”
Kat couldn’t help visualizing that. Too bad she couldn’t be there to watch the installation. To see Nick in action would be nothing short of eye candy. The man had incredible biceps and muscular thighs, no doubt from years of hauling heavy pieces of wood around. She figured it was the complete package that had made him the top choice for HBTV. She’d bet money ratings were going to skyrocket when Nick’s shows aired. Part of her was almost giddy with pride, but she admitted a little hesitation at having to soon share him with the rest of the world.
Someday, her mother was going to eat her words.
“Did you tell her about HomeBuilders?”
Nick shook his head. His goal was to stay focused strictly on his work for the Andrews project and steer away from conversation that could lead to anything personal for as long as possible—he hoped that meant until the project was complete.
“Nah. If I’d been there it might’ve come up, but not in emails.”
“Never mind, I’ll tell her, so it won’t seem like you’re bragging.”
“But if you do that, she’ll know we’ve been talking.”
The line went quiet, and Nick waited for a response.
Finally, Kat’s laughter bubbled through. “Talking,Nick?”
That fast, the memory of their weekend together lit a flame inside him. Yeah, they’d talked—and a whole lot more. And still, he wanted more. How was he going to handle this long-distance? His bank account would take a hit if he started flying to New York every couple of weeks. But could he wait for HomeBuilders to summon him and pick up the tab?
He chuckled. “Well, that’s all she needs to know, right?” He glanced at the calendar and February fourteenth jumped out at him. Valentine’s Day. Would she expect him to be there? To send something? He wasn’t an idiot. He made a note to order flowers at the least. “Hey, open your video chat. I want to see that gorgeous smile.”
“Sure.”
A moment later, her lovely face filled the screen. And he knew whether HomeBuilders needed him back in New York or not, he’d be logging some air miles soon.
“Hey, let’s just let Mom find out when she’s here in April,” Kat said. “Your installation will be done, and she can still brag at the homes show.”
“Fine by me. But you said she doesn’t like surprises.”
“Honestly, I think it’s a good chance she won’t show up, anyway. If she does, my dad and Nana will be here, and that will keep her from going ballistic.”
Nick rubbed the back of his neck. Something was off here. “I guess I’m a little confused about something. Why would she go ballistic? What’s the problem? Is there someone else she wants you to date? Or is there a problem with me?”
Groaning, Kat put her hands over her face and shook her head.
“Kat, what’s the big deal?” He couldn’t understand the concern in her eyes when she looked at him again.
“It’s a problem withher. She’s a snob.”
“So, the problemisme. She wouldn’t approve of you dating me. Is that right?”
“Because she sees you as the help.” Kat’s voice rose. “In her mind, you’re a worker-bee, not the successful country-club type.”
“Umm. Wow. Okay.” Disgust rolled over Nick. He almost wished he could walk away from the Andrews job. Leave her in the lurch. But doing that would only reinforce her negative stereotyping. And would hurt him more than her. Not to mention possibly bringing down her wrath on Kat. He couldn’t do that, and he wouldn’t do anything to ruin her big event.
“Nick, it’sherproblem. I’m not saying you have to do anything to impress her. I just think if we can highlight the HomeBuilders show, it might make Opening Weekend go more smoothly. Is there any kind of an announcement on their website? Maybe I can send that to Mom in an email and tell her I recognized your name.”
Nick nodded. “Probably on their website. I haven’t looked.” This was so messed up. He couldn’t imagine his parents being such a barrier to his happiness. The thought of spending time with Kat’s parents put a sour taste in his mouth. No wonder Nana Kitty had been such an important part of Kat’s life. The Andrews matriarch must be a force to reckon with in her own right. He couldn’t wait to meet her—and hoped her presence could keep Rebecca’s foul attitude in check.
For Kat’s sake, he hoped they could avoid drama.
ChapterFifteen
Nick opened one eye and grimaced at his phone. The loud chime had startled him awake and interrupted a comfortable sleep. He hoped after this initial meeting and introduction he could give the folks in New York a friendly reminder that an eight-thirty morning meeting there made for an awfully early start in Colorado.
He’d hardly be coherent. He swung out of bed and headed for the shower. Hopefully that and some strong coffee would clear the fog.
