Paradise Encounter (5 page)

“Hello Maya.” He came to a stop several feet from her, aware that Tiffany was off her phone for once and watching the two of them with avid interest.

“Hello, Andy.” She shifted from one foot to the other.

“How have you been? I’ve missed hearing from you. That is, I’ve missed helping you with your orders.”

“I know. I know. I’m actually way behind with my ordering. I’ve been – ” She looked down at her hands and hesitated, “I’ve been feeling funny about calling you.”

Tiffany put her phone down and leaned forward on the counter, her chin on her palms. Andy threw her a glare but it didn’t seem to faze her.

He took a step forward, wanting nothing more than to take Maya his arms. But since he wasn’t able to see her eyes, he couldn’t be sure how she was feeling. He hoped the fact that she was standing here was a good sign.

“I’m sorry you felt you couldn’t call me. No matter what happened between us personally, I hoped we could continue as business associates.” He grimaced, hating how stilted the words sounded. “I mean – ”

“That’s okay. I know what you mean. I’d hate to get my shrubs and bark dust anywhere else. No one’s been as helpful as you, Andy.”

Now she took two steps toward him and pushed her dark glasses up on top of her head. Those green eyes of hers were sure amazing. Even with dark smudges beneath them, he was knocked back by their color and clarity.

Only four feet or so now separated them. He could smell her perfume.

She fingered the bandana again.

“Do you know what I always used to call you?” She lowered her voice, the silky tones stroking over him like something alive.

“What do you mean?”

“In my mind. There was a nickname I gave you.” She closed the gap between them, her hand coming to rest on his arm. “Handy Andy.” She leaned forward and whispered the words, as if she were telling a joke on herself.

“Handy Andy?” He couldn’t help barking a laugh.

“You were always so helpful. Always. You were always my hero.”

“I try.” He could feel a grin splitting his face.

“And you’re nothing like Der – like some other men who are only about getting what
they
want. That’s not you at all.” She gave him a shy smile. “Thank you for the card and flowers. That was so thoughtful.”

He put his arms out then and gathered her up. She came right into his embrace, fitting the lush curves of her body perfectly against his.

No doubt about it, things were about to get complicated. But he had a feeling it would all be worth it. Over the top of Maya’s head, he watched as his niece got up and tiptoed out of the room. And then he kissed her, long and thoroughly.