“I’d like fifty percent of the sales.”

“You got big plans for all that money?”

She grinned. “Well, yeah. I’m going to start my own company, so I can be the decision-maker.”

“Knock, knock.” Vanessa let herself in.

Irritation flashed through him. He didn’t want anyone interrupting his time with Rosie.

And yet you invited her here so she could be surrounded by people, instead of alone in a hotel room.

His architect headed toward him with a big smile, which faltered the moment she reached the kitchen and found him with Rosie. “Oh. Hello, I’m Vanessa.”

“Rosie. Nice to meet you.”

Vanessa looked to him for an explanation, so he said, “She’s using one of the indigenous plants on our property to come up with a signature scent for our spa products.”

“What a clever idea.” Vanessa set her briefcase on the counter. “I didn’t know you were working on that.”

“Yep. Looking for ways to finish out Owl Hoot.”

“Well, she’s definitely going to need a better space to work in.” Vanessa took in the crowded counters. “Actually, I might have a place for you. School’s out for the summer, so we might be able to get the Home Economics kitchen.”

“Oh, I’m not staying in town,” Rosie said. “I’m going to bring everything back to my lab and work on it there. This is just temporary.” She reached for a kitchen towel and wiped her hands. “I can finish up tomorrow. I’ll leave you two to this lovely evening.”

“No,” he blurted.

Rosie jerked to a stop.

“Finish what you’re doing,” he said. “And then I’ll drive you back to the hotel.”

“That’s a great idea.” Vanessa rubbed his arm, and it made him uncomfortable. “I’ll go with you, and then we can try that new restaurant in Jackson.”

Rosie looked uncertain, so he took the towel out of her hands. “You’ve only got a few days to get your work done. Stay here and finish.” He turned to Vanessa. “I can’t go out tonight. I’m having dinner at the main house.”

He didn’t like Vanessa’s disappointment, and it made him wonder what had changed between them. When had her expectations shifted? “It’s my night to hang out with Ruby.” His half-sister, only three years old, was a handful, and he and his brothers took turns giving Will and Delilah a break.

Vanessa melted. “You’re such a sweetheart.”

Her softness hardened him. “So, what’s up? You came by to see me?”

“I sure did.” She tapped the tube sticking out of her briefcase. “I want to show you the changes I made.” She got up on her toes, her hand sliding down to the small of his back, and whispered in his ear, “And I’m in a mood, so let’s go to your room, get some privacy.”