“Well, specifically... your relationship to me.”
“Aaah. Well, they’ve surely figured out I’m only the innkeeper.”
“Not yet, actually. But...” She wasn’t sure how to say he’d put off a very protective vibe last night. She’d just show him instead. “Here, maybe if you take a look.”
She pulled up the photos and handed her phone to him. Would he see what others had seen in his expressions? That he looked like an avenging angel? That his protectiveness seemed... personal?
As he studied the photos a flush crawled into his cheeks. He handed her phone back and scratched the back of his neck. “So... what are you saying exactly?”
She cleared her throat. “Nolan thinks the speculation about our relationship is a good thing. It’s changed the narrative from Jax and me to...”
“You and me.” Realization dawned in his eyes. “That’s why there are more of them out front today.”
“Right. And I’m so sorry about your picture being spread all over creation—I guess I should’ve warned you about that.”
“I figured as much when we walked out the door last night. I just didn’t think—”
“Me either. But the press have inventive ways of stirring up talk, and Nolan would much rather that they were talking about us than the scandal. He asked if we might be willing to, um... continue the narrative.”
“Continue the narrative... like be seen together as though we’re...”
“In a relationship, yes. And feel free to say no, because I realize this is a huge ask. I wouldn’t blame you for not wanting the public scrutiny. Believe me, I know what a pain that is. But the thing is, not only are people speculating about our relationship, they’re wondering how Jax’s version of what happened can be true if I’m involved with someone else.”
Levi’s head tilted back in understanding. “Ah, makes sense. That’s a good thing then.”
Mia winced. “Except it’s not really true. And I don’t want you to do anything you’re uncomfortable with. I’m extending my stay regardless, and I honestly wouldn’t blame you if—”
Levi hit the counter with his palm with a decisive smack. “Count me in.”
The smile blooming on Mia’s face was unstoppable. “Really? I mean, you won’t have to, like, lay it on thick or anything. Just being seen out and about together is enough. They’ll do the rest.”
She loved the formidable look that came over his face. The determined thrust of his chin. “Know what? It’s time Jax Jordan was put in his place. He spread blatant lies about you, and if I can help expose him for the schmuck that he is... I’m all in.”
twenty-five
Molly was already seated in the library when Levi entered with the financial folder. He’d been a little scattered since his conversation with Mia earlier in the morning. She’d gone upstairs to unpack, and Levi had texted his sisters, moving up their financial meeting. He had items to go over, and they wouldn’t be checking in guests until later this afternoon.
Levi turned the desk chair to face the small sofa and was just sitting down when Grace entered.
“Why’d we move up theboardmeeting?” Grace asked.
Molly chuckled and gave Grace a high five. “Nice one.”
Levi’s gaze toggled between then. “What? Oh,boredmeeting. I get it. Very funny. Sit down, both of you, and try to stay awake this time.”
“Yes, master,” they said simultaneously.
He sighed as he passed out the spreadsheets.
“Before we get into this exciting stuff,” Grace said, “I’d just like to say I’m really overdue for a raise.”
Levi rolled his eyes.
“I’m serious. I’m making minimum wage here.”
“As I said—last month and the month before and the month before that—we’re all making minimum wage here, Grace. Until the bottom line improves it will continue that way. Speaking of which, I have a potential solution I’d like to propose—”
“Wait,” Molly said. “I’d like to address the restaurant situation.”
