“Both,” he declared, with a firm nod.
“Well unfortunately, I can’t climb for quite a while until I’m healed up. So I guess we’ll never know whether you could have beaten me or not.”
“I think it’s only fair you postpone this wedding until after we have a chance to compete. You could be marrying the wrong man.”
“I don’t think so. I’m happy with my choice.”
“But he might change his mind again,” Collin said. “I understand he was hot for Olivia before he settled on you.”
“That’s not what happened,” Olivia protested. “He was in love with Charlie from the beginning, but he didn’t think he had a chance with her.”
“Personally, I don’t think he’s worthy of either of you lovely ladies. But that doesn’t excuse his indecisiveness. How can you marry someone that fickle? He might change his mind at any moment. It could be the shortest marriage in history.”
Charlie schooled her face to hide her emotional turmoil. She couldn’t let Collin know how close he was to treading on her insecurities. “Josh isn’t that kind of man. But something tells me a girl might expect that from you.”
“Never.” Collin’s grin was broad. “Because no woman will ever get me to the alter of sacrifice.”
“Like I said, I’m happy with my choice.”
“Did I say no woman? I meant no woman but you. Only for you, Charlie, would I give up my wandering ways.”
“Pardon me if I don’t buy your sincerity.”
“Fine then—marry the guy. And when he shows his indecisive streak
and leaves you at home alone, give me a call.” With his words, Collin slipped a business card into her hand.
Charlie, still stunned at his blatant offer, dropped the card on the floor as if it were coated in acid. Collin chuckled as he picked it up and slipped it into her arm sling when she looked away.
JOSH SEETHED, WATCHING Collin flirting with Charlie from the corner of his eye.
“Josh, are you listening to me?” Gram demanded.
“I’m sorry.” Josh forced his attention back to the tiny white-haired woman. “I was distracted.”
“Because Collin is pursuing Charlie?”
“Uhmm... well, yes...”
“And do you think Collin has any chance of winning this competition?”
“No. I mean... I don’t think so. But I don’t know what he’s saying...”
“The best defense is a good offense. Isn’t that what they say?”
“Yes, but...”
“Where are your weaknesses, Josh? Time to shore ‘em up. Close the lines. Batten up the hatches. Go in with guns blazing.”
“What are you talking about, Gram?”
“Are all men so clueless?” She put her fingers in her mouth and let out a wolf whistle. “Excuse me.” Her voice was prim and proper. “I would appreciate it if Charlie would join me for a moment.”
Charlie moved toward Gram and Josh, eyeing them with caution, as everyone returned to their conversations, chuckling at Gram’s antics.
“Yes, ma’am? You wanted me?”
“Yes, dear. I wanted to show both of you something over here by the fireplace.”