“Heather, don’t be ridiculous. Of course you’ll get married. And soon I hope. You know there are several men who have been quite verbal in their interest in you. Encourage one of them.”
Interest in her family’s money was more likeit. No thanks.
“Well, I have no interest in them.”
Huffing, her mother shook her head. “Well, at least Charlotte willdo as we ask.”
Heather only smiled, knowing full well Charlotte wasn’t in the market for a man either. Too much fun being free and easy for heryounger sister.
“I think I’ll go chat with Charlotte about all these men who like us so much.” She needed to get away from her mother. She meant well but her exclusivity was frustrating. “We could get a matched set. Wouldyou like that?”
Her mother actually considered it. “The Bredbenner brothers are both single.”
Walking off, she snickered. The Bredbenner boys were barely twenty but were filthy rich. She spotted Charlotte near the buffet table and pulled her aside.
“Watch out. Mom’s on the marriagewarpath again.”
Her sister rolled her eyes. “Great. Who’s she got picked out for us? And is that hunky partner of yours on the list?”
“Seriously, you think Mom would put a mere contractor, a blue-collar worker, on a list of potential mates for the infamously rich Silva heiresses?”
Charlotte scowled. “Of course not. Everyone on her list will be deathly dull and of the highest quality. Though I’ve got to say your blue-collar worker looks pretty highquality to me.”
Scott was quality. No matter the differences they had, she had to admit he wasa good person.
Leaning in closer, Charlotte whispered, “Damn, he is gorgeous. If you aren’t doing him, could I have him? Even just for a few days?”
Steam nearly rose from her ears at the thought of anyone else touching Scott. Which was stupid, because she’d vehemently denied being attracted to him. Well, maybe not denied that she was attracted, but denied that she could get involvedwith him again.
“No.” She narrowed her eyes at her sister but didn’t givean explanation.
Pouting, Charlotte said, “Fine, but if he has any friends, send them my way. Dad’s coming back. I’m out of here.”
Her father walked toward her, but Scott was nowhere to be seen.
“I like him. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, great business sense, and does a solid job. Plus he’s served his country and isa hard worker.”
“Glad you approve, Dad.” She wouldn’t admit how much those words truly meant to her. She’d spent her whole life trying to get him to see she could be much more than her mother was: a beautiful accessory for some wealthy man.
“You’d do well to stick with him, sweetheart.”
“As a business partner only though, right? Mom didn’t seem to think he fit the bill foranything more.”
Pulling her hair like he’d done since she was a little girl, he stepped closer. “Don’t let your mother dictate how you run your life. I think Scott Holland would be a good addition to any part of your life that you want him in.”
“Thanks, Dad. For now it’s simply business.”
“Speaking of which, have you given any long-range thoughts to putting all those brains to work for Silvaggios? You know we could use someone with your intelligence and savvy to help run the company.”
“I have this new project I’m working on right now. I need to dedicate any extra time I have there. And my real estate business will be handy for when we start selling and leasing.”
“How about a Silvaggios there then? I’ll make you manager.” His grin warmed her heart.
“You don’t ever stop, do you? I appreciate all you’ve taught me. I do. But I want to make my own mark on this world. Not simply profit from the mark you’ve already made. Can you understand that?”
“I can, sweetheart.” Hugging her, he continued, “Can’t blame a guy for trying to see his daughter more every day. I am proud of you. You’ve done a great job and I love you.”
“Thanks. Ilove you too.”
