A hell of a lot rode on this deal.

There had to be some way to convince her and the rest of the people on the island that one resort wouldn’t change their way of life.

It was either that or he had to go back to his partners—and friends—and investors and pull the plug on the entire thing. He would lose a hell of a lot of money, but worse than that, he’d lose credibility, future backing and his standing in the business community.

All because of a promise he couldn’t remember making.

Bryony stirred in his arms and his grip tightened possessively around her. Before she could open her eyes, he pulled her close and kissed her lingeringly.

She sighed as her eyelashes fluttered, then her warm brown eyes found his and she smiled. “That’s a nice way to wake up.”

“I was thinking the same thing,” he murmured.

“What time is it?”

“Seven.”

She yawned and snuggled closer to him. “Plenty of time.”

“Plenty of time for what?”

“To do whatever we want or nothing at all.”

He chuckled. “I like your attitude.”

“Any idea what you’d like to do today?”

“Yeah, actually. I thought you could take me around the island. Private tour. Show me what makes it so special to everyone who lives here. I can’t remember the last time I went to a beach just to see and enjoy the sights and sounds.”

She leaned her head back and frowned. “You work entirely too hard. Maybe your accident was a blessing in disguise. If it causes you to slow down and reevaluate then it’s a good thing.”

“I wouldn’t have put it that way exactly. I’m not sure nearly dying is the kind of wake-up call anyone wants,” he said dryly.

She touched his cheek. “But would you be thinking the way you’re thinking now if it hadn’t happened?”

He sighed. “Maybe not. Maybe you’re the reason for my reevaluation. Ever think of that?”

She smiled and leaned up to kiss him. “I’ll take that explanation. I prefer it over thinking about you dying anyway.”

“You and me both,” he muttered.

“Tell you what. You hit the shower. I’ll cook breakfast. Then I’ll take my bath and we’ll head out. The weather is supposed to be gorgeous all week. We can pack a picnic and eat out on the beach.”

“I’ve got a better idea. How about we shower together then I’ll help you cook breakfast. I cook a mean piece of bacon.”

She laughed and he sucked in his breath at the love shining in her eyes as she stared up at him. No one had ever looked at him like that.