Every scrap of evidence suggested her days of artifice and manipulation and self-centeredness were over—but there was no need to rush into a deeper relationship. If they were meant to have any sort of future, that would be revealed to them in time.

He lifted a hand in farewell, then walked back to the Jeep beside Hannah.

After securing what was left of the cake in the back seat, he slid behind the wheel, put the car in gear, and crunched down the gravel drive toward Pelican Point Road.

“Christi’s nice.”

“Yep.” But he didn’t want to discuss her with his daughter. “You and Harpo seemed to be getting along well tonight.”

“He’s letting me come closer—but if I move too fast, he flies away. Christi says I have to be patient and wait until he’s ready to be my friend.”

Wise counsel.

And perhaps she was following her own advice with the wary man who’d fallen hard for her long ago. Waiting patiently for him to accept that the Christi Reece who lived in Hope Harbor wasn’t anything like the socialite who’d dazzled—and deceived—him eleven years ago.

He pulled onto the paved road and hung a right, the lights from Sea Glass Cottage twinkling through the trees in his rearview mirror as he drove away.

If that was the case, it was possible her patience would be sorely tested.

For he wasn’t about to venture into what could be an emotional minefield until he was as certain as possible that this go-round, his heart wouldn’t take a devastating hit.

26

Once again, the turnout was huge for the chamber of commerce meeting—and the butterflies in Christi’s stomach were becoming more frenetic by the minute as the clock inched toward four o’clock.

Five minutes and counting.

She searched the room from beside the seat Marci had saved for her in the front row. No sign of Jack yet—but he’d show. He wasn’t the type of guy who let people down.

“Afternoon, Christi.”

At Reverend Baker’s greeting, she swiveled around.

He held out his hand as he approached. “You zipped out after the service this morning—understandable in light of today’s meeting—but I wanted to express my appreciation for the splendid idea you brought forward to generate more business in our charming town.”

She returned his warm clasp. “I just hope it does the job.”

“I have every confidence it will. God works in wondrous ways. He brought a newcomer into our midst who recognized the incredible talent we have right under our noses and showed us how to tap into that. Your suggestion was inspired.”

“If you’re seeking inspiration, I’m at your service.” Father Murphy hustled over, beaming a smile their direction. “What can I help you with, my son?” He nudged the minister with his elbow.