This book was a milestone for me because of its challenge. Could I write a book
where there were no psychics, no murders or attempted murders? In essence, I had
to ask myself if I could write a nice simple romance. The answer? Ummm…yes
and no. I’m pleased to report that a dead body won’t show up somewhere
nor will anyone keel over from an attempted poisoning. However, there’s
sibling rivalry, family secrets and a mutt named Kiri. So much for simple, but
I had fun with this book and hope you will too.
[Jordan
Taylor is desperate to rebuild his family’s business and needs a consultant.
He’s eager to change his playboy ways and focus solely on business. However,
when he meets Dawn Ajani she soon brings other thoughts to mind. ] “Hi,
I’m Dawn Ajani.”
Jordan stared as though he’d been punched in the gut. She was all wrong.
She wasn’t supposed to be that attractive. She had the proud dominant cheekbones
of a West African heritage that made him think of desert winds, the heat of a
blazing summer storm and the cooling rain that soon followed. She looked like
a woman who could start a fire in a man and easily put it out. This was not good.
He shook his head feeling a little dizzy. Business. He had to think business.
And she looked ready for business dressed in a full pinstriped suit with a
tie. Strangely, it made her figure appear more feminine.
“Nice tie,” he said, then mentally kicked himself.
She smiled, he swallowed. She was even prettier when she smiled—bright,
real, genuine. He shifted and coughed knowing he was staring.
“Thank you. I know it’s not the trend, but I think the look suits
me. Is it safe to assume you’re Jordan Taylor?”
“Yes.”
She held out her hand. “It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
He quickly shook her hand then took a step back. He had to keep his distance.
“Come in. Please take your shoes off.” Along the foyer hallway, he
had his shoes neatly placed in a row.
She slipped out of her shoes, left her briefcase by the door and headed to
the living room “I’m sorry I’m so early. I’d set my watch
fast and forgot. However, I’d rather be early than tardy. Don’t you
agree?”
Jordan opened his mouth to reply, but she continued. “It’s much
better not to keep someone waiting. It shows good manners.” She abruptly
stopped and turned, Jordan crashed into her. They fell against the wall. He jumped
back before he began to enjoy her softness beneath him.
“Sorry,” she said.
He grunted.
“I just wanted to say that I see you’re not completely ready so
I’ll just sit here until you are. Rushing people because you’re early
is equally as bad manners as being late. Don’t let me keep you I know how
to entertain myself. And you don’t have to worry, I won’t snoop. I
know how upsetting it is to have people who snoop.”
Jordan stared at her.
She frowned. “Is something wrong?”
He flashed a look of mock surprise. “Oh, you mean I’m allowed to
speak?”
Embarrassed, she cupped her face with both hands, looking up at him with a
wide-eyed look. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to go on like that.
It’s just sometimes I get on a topic and my mouth moves until the topic
is finished.”
“So—”
“Fortunately, I’m learning to listen more. I’m an excellent
listener. In my field, it helps to make sure that my clients feel that their concerns
are being addressed. I can assure you, Mr. Taylor, that you can feel confident
that all your ideas, suggestions, concerns or whatever else will be heard.”
“Ms.--”
“I
can’t tell you how excited I am by your proposal. I was able to flesh out
many of your ideas. I think it’s great that the Institute has selected a
new president to give it a new direction. I believe that this endeavor is adventurous,
though extremely ambitious, but…” She paused and drew her brows together
concerned. “Mr. Taylor, if you’re not careful you’ll strangle
yourself with that tie.”
Jordan loosened his grip. “For a brief moment that had been my intention,”
he said gravely.
“Why?”
“I was hoping that if I passed out you would stop talking.”
She covered her mouth then let her hand fall. “Again I apologize. I—”
He shot her a glance; she bit her lip. “I’ll stop.” She made
a motion of zipping her lips closed.
“Good. May we get down to business?”
