“She left me a message from her hotel. She lost her phone. Wait, did you say you’re there, now?”
“Yes.” He gritted his teeth. “Where can I find her, Tilly? I’m short on time and it’s important.”
“Hmm,” Tilly replied. “I ran into a little snag myself. Maybe we can help each other out.”
* * *
Sitting at a patiotable overlooking the pristine golf course, Savannah sipped a sparkling water while Gerard flipped through her portfolio. The first half of their meeting had gone well. He’d escorted her through the members-only clubhouse showing her the outdated collection of framed photos that covered the walls. She’d asked open-ended questions to understand his vision. Gerard wanted what most club owners wanted—breathtaking pictures that captured the natural beauty of his PGA-ranked golf courses. She pointed out a few shots in her portfolio that she’d replicate for his properties.
“These are exactly what I had in mind,” Gerard said. “What are your fees?”
For a brief second, she hesitated.Why didn’t Tilly discuss my rates with him?After explaining her pricing structure and the estimated number of days she’d need to complete the job, she shut up. Another tactic she’d learned from her agent.
His smile dropped. “That’s much more than I’d expected to pay. I’d like to hire you, but I can only offer half your rate.”
Her chest tightened. In the past, Savannah caved when her clients challenged her daily rates. She wouldn’t push back, never stood her ground. Once Tilly joined her team, she learned she was being taken advantage of. Tilly doubled her fees and wouldn’t back down.C’mon, woman up.
Swallowing down her insecurity, she forced herself to continue.
“Gerard, what do you tell someone who’s interested in a membership, but thinks your fees are too high?”
The club owner chuckled. “I suggest he or she golf elsewhere and compare.”
“Great advice. My rates are based on my expertise and my time. Which one should I forgo in order to charge you half my fee?” Though she didn’t break eye contact, her mouth had gone dry.
As Gerard glanced down at her open portfolio, Savannah fiddled with her earring cuff.Deep breath.
“Well said,” he replied. “I’ll give your proposal serious consideration. Unfortunately, I have to rush off to another meeting. I’ll be out of town next week and will touch base when I get back.” He extended his hand. “Thanks for coming by.”
Dammit. I should have countered.Forcing a smile, she shook it. “This course is beautiful. I’d love to photograph all three.”
Gerard pulled a business card from his pocket. “Please stay. Lunch is on the house.” He spoke to a wait staff before retreating into the building.
Not winning this job had sealed her fate. After the tourism gig, she’d return home and accept the restaurant job at the beach. For now, Savannah would drown her sorrows in something stronger than the sparkling water she’d been nursing.
“Great job standing your ground.” The deep, sexy voice behind her sent jolts of energy scurrying through her.
She spun around and her heart leapt into her throat.Ohmygod, it’s him.Zander sat at the table behind her, oozing his private brand of confident sophistication and brimming with raw sensuality. Despite her wildly beating heart, she wasn’t going to let on he’d just rocked her world. He hadn’t hunted her down in New Mexico to pay her a social call, and she had no intention of caving to his demands simply because he’d flown halfway across the country to see her.
Her lips curved. “Small world, Slick.”
“Hello, Savannah.” His husky voice, coupled with that devilish gleam, made her tremble.
She gave him the once over.Dark tailored suit paired with a light pink dress shirt. No tie. She wanted to run her tongue over the exposed skin on his chest and taste every delicious inch of him.Does he know he brings the heat every damn time?He’s gotta know.“I didn’t peg you for an eavesdropper.” She kicked out the chair Gerard had vacated.
With drink in hand, he rose. His movement was deliberate, calculated. He held her in his sights like a raptor tracking its prey. Tilting her head, she soaked up all his masculine hotness. Those deliciously broad shoulders giving way to a wide chest and a nice, tight torso. Bulging thighs pressed against the dark dress pants.
Pinning her with an unwavering gaze, he leaned down. Her insides tightened in anticipation of his kiss, his warm, minty breath heating her down to her toes. But he stopped shy of her cheek.
“My bad,” he murmured. “I almost kissed you hello. We can’t have that, now, can we?”
Had her uptight stepbrother changed his tactic? Traded his aggressive approach for a more playful one?
Though her heart hadn’t stopped banging against her ribcage, she offered nothing more than a sly smile. “No, we can’t.” She pointed to the empty chair. “Sit.”
After easing down next to her, he raised his glass. “Congratulations. You didn’t back down when Gerard challenged your fee.”
“I didn’t counter, either.”
