Trust by Design (Colorado Trust 2)

“I can call you when I get home later.”

“Later? It’s almost eight. How long do those stores stay open?”

“We’re going to grab some dinner afterward,” Dean admitted.

Mike chuckled. “Perfect.”

“Not really.” He glanced toward the desk. “I know why I need to do this, but the more I get to know her, it doesn’t feel right.”

“Hey, if she’s working with Jack, then she deserves everything she gets.”

“And if she’s not?”

“Then she’s not. It’s not a big deal, Dean. She said he’s her ex, so get her to open up about him. Offer a sympathetic ear.”

“Yeah, I can do that.” It’d be awkward as all hell, but he could at least try.

“By the way…did she call you to meet with her tonight?”

“No.” He frowned at the odd question as he looked out the showroom windows to the lit street outside. “I came in to finalize the house expense account for her and took a chance swinging by her office. Why?”

“It just crossed my mind maybe she was looking to get you out of the house.”

“Definitely not the case. In fact, I think I actually scared her showing up so late.”

“Huh. Maybe she’s got something there to hide.”

“No.”

“Don’t discard the possibility so quickly,” Mike cautioned.

He pictured the boxes she’d been packing in the office and was struck with a suspicion he hadn’t considered before. Just because he didn’t want her to be hiding something, didn’t mean she wasn’t. Maybe she was moving out because of rent, but maybe the real reason for the boxes was to get rid of evidence in case she had to leave town fast.

A glance over his shoulder caught Gina’s gaze for a brief moment. She held up a finger to indicate one more minute, then returned her attention to the man at the computer.

Damn, he hated not knowing.

Dean ran a hand though his newly trimmed hair, then instantly forced himself not to think about the fact his decorator had noticed the change right away. Her business centered around details—of course she’d notice.

“Anything new on Ty?” he asked to change the subject.

“No. Quinn said not a word or period out of place in any of his communications.”

“I guess that’s good news, but I can’t help but feel like the storm is just on the horizon.”

“He’s not getting this one, Dean. I promise.”

Mike’s assurances did nothing to lessen the tightness in his gut. Across the room, business cards were exchanged along with handshakes. “Listen, I gotta go. We’ll talk tomorrow.”

He disconnected the call and then smiled as Gina joined him. “All set?”

“Everything will be de

livered a week from Friday.”

“Great. And since I already know you’re just as hungry as me, let’s go eat.”

Her laugh eased the knot in his stomach. Instinct or stupidity? He had no clue.