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  His attention was drawn as all the women—except Hannah, of course—squealed in delight when they saw their new home. Hannah, though, had a curve on her lips, so he knew she must be pleased. He hadn’t spent much time with her, but she was the typical woman he’d gotten to know since building his fortune. Proper, elegant, charming. But her charm seemed manufactured, nothing like the cheerful, innocent allure Abigail possessed.

  As they pulled in front of the house, Abigail secured the reins and swung down from her perch before he could assist her. She hadn’t even glanced in his direction. Most of the women followed suit, but Hannah and Charlotte accepted his aid.

  Abigail turned to the women, gesturing widely. “Welcome home! I hope you’ll love it here as much as I do. Don’t worry about the horses, Sylvia, our housekeeper will see to them. And believe me, you’ll hear about it if you do something she deems to be in her domain.’”

  The front door opened behind Abigail, and a handsome, older woman with silver-streaked hair and soft features stepped out. “You better heed Abby’s warning, or you’ll be sorry,” the woman said.

  When she smiled warmly, fine wrinkles raced over her smooth-looking skin. “I’m Sylvia. I wanted to quickly welcome you all. If there’s anything you need, please ask. I know how hard it is to move somewhere new. And no matter how different this place may be, if you keep an open mind, you’ll come to love it here too.”

  Lucas glanced at Abigail, surprised the housekeeper had addressed her as Abby. She’d never gone by anything other than Abigail, and it took him aback. What else had changed? He glanced over her form while she chatted with the women, and a surge of desire swept through him. Her body had filled out in every place a man fancied. She was a goddess.

  Her clothes appeared to be of the finest quality, so he guessed she was still as wealthy as ever. It only made him wonder again why she was here.

  When there was a lull, Lucas stepped toward the group. “Why don’t you go in and have Sylvia and Miss Winthrop show you to your rooms? I’ll take care of the trunks.”

  Sylvia frowned. “That isn’t necessary, sir. I can manage.”

  He gave her a nod. “I imagine you can, but I would like to do it, if that’s all right.”

  Sylvia seemed surprised. Finally, she nodded and gave him a warm smile. “All right.”

  He was turning toward the trunks when he noticed Abigail watching him, a frown on her face. But, before he could say anything, she ripped her gaze from him and followed the others into the house.

  Laughter echoed out the front door, and a small smile crossed his lips as he hefted the first trunk from the wagon. The women seemed pleased with the place, and that was one thing he’d aimed to accomplish. He wanted them settled and happy. They’d have plenty of time to get comfortable in their new home before he placed them elsewhere. He wasn’t completely sure where yet, but he figured it would come to him.

  He brought the trunk inside and heard chatter on the second floor. With only four bedrooms, two of the rooms would need to be shared. He imagined Abigail would keep her own room since she was a permanent resident here.

  He looked around at the grand, two-story entrance, the plush sitting room off the foyer, the expensive decor and knickknacks gracing the tables—all sitting behind a door with a lock he could pick in ten seconds.

  He frowned and knelt, inspecting the door’s hardware. Had Rhys truly allowed his sister to live here with so little protection? It was mind blowing. Anyone could have broken in, stolen from her—or worse—stolen her.

  How had she survived an entire year here?

  “Is something wrong?”

  Lucas glanced over his shoulder, forcing his body to react slowly, naturally. It was hard. Abigail’s smoky, tantalizing voice caused all sorts of physical responses in him. He looked back at the lock. “Yes. This is insufficient. You’re in here like a fresh loaf of bread while starving men circle the bakery.”

  There was a moment of silence before her laughter echoed from the top of the stairs.

  He froze. Of all the reactions he’d expected, that wasn’t one of them. He glanced over his shoulder with a raised brow.

  She shook her head chidingly. “Oh, Mr. McDermott, come now. I’m practically a spinster. I’m perfectly safe here.” Another chuckle escaped. “But thank you for amusing me.”

  He didn’t know why, but having her address him so formally chaffed. “You used to call me Lucas.”

  Her spine straightened, and the smile fell from her lips. “That was a long time ago.” She tipped her head. “Excuse me.”

  She descended the stairs and walked down another hall. She wasn’t quite running, but her pace had quickened as if she couldn’t get away from him fast enough. Before he realized what he was doing, he followed her.

  Abby burst through the back door, her lungs burning for air. She needed a moment. Just one single moment to get herself back under control.

  She strode to the copse of trees not far from the house. She wasn’t running away from Lucas. This was an act of self-preservation. When he’d walked out of her life all those years ago, she’d been devastated. Well, he wasn’t going to crush her now.

  She blew out a shallow breath, calming her heart. This was her life, and Lucas, Mr. McDermott, had no place in it. So, she wasn’t running away from him. She just didn’t want anything to do with him, didn’t even want to see him—no matter how handsome he was.

  Stop it!

  She needed to stop thinking of him. He was here to do a job, and she needed to help the women find their place here. This was her life. This was her future. And Lucas didn’t have a part in either.

  She sucked in a few deep breaths, pressing her hand against her corseted stomach. I can do this. I can do this. She opened her eyes and nodded. She could do this. She was strong. She was capable. Treating Lucas as an acquaintance only was something she could manage.

  He probably thought she was ridiculous for leaving as she had just now, but she didn’t care. It didn’t matter what he thought. She was her own woman, and it would be good for him to see that.

  Determined, she whipped around, ready to march back into the house—and ran into a wall. Someone grunted, and she realized it wasn’t a wall, but a man. His arms wrapped around her as she teetered, and she gasped. She fought off a shiver as Lucas’ delicious scent assailed her.

  “Steady,” he cautioned, keeping his arms around her. “You ran into me pretty hard. You aren’t injured, are you?”

  His minty breath wafted through her hair, and he ran his hands up and down her arms, searching for injuries. She flashed back to all those years ago when they were together, holding each other like this, and pain slashed through her.

  She brought her hands up between them and pushed, every inch of his chest as sculpted as when he’d lived a life of hard labor. Couldn’t he have at least softened? Become just a little less appealing?

  She stepped back from him, clearing her throat. “Pardon. I didn’t see you there.”

  “I can see that. Forgive me for intruding.”

  All this formality was becoming unbearable. “Is there something you need, Mr. McDermott?” She still refused to call him Lucas. Lucas was the man she’d loved, the man she’d thought she’d spend the rest of her life with. And that man no longer existed.

  “I wanted to speak with you.”

  “About?”

  He watched her for a moment. She raised an eyebrow, and he looked away, cursing softly under his breath before raking a hand through his hair. “Look, I know this is complicated, but I want to make this work.”

  “It’s not complicated at all. You’re here to do a job—to get these women settled and start things at the mine.” She let out a breath. “There is nothing between us, and frankly, nothing else needs to be said. You’ll go your way, and I’ll go mine.”

  He shifted uneasily as if uncertain whether to believe her or not. She was surprised she’d sounded so confident.

  “Simple as that, huh?”

/>   “Simple as that.” She held out her hands like it could truly be that easy. “There needn’t be anything more.”

  “I’ll need to come by often for the first while to talk with the women about their long term arrangements as they’re worked out.”

  “You’re welcome to do so. I’ll stay out of your way.”

  “You don’t need to do that.”

  There was an edge to his voice now. She was getting to him, and she couldn’t help but needle further. It wasn’t right, but she couldn’t stop a little of her hurt from eking out and stabbing him. “Of course,” she demurred, knowing he would hate it. There wasn’t a demure bone in her body, and they both knew it.

  His jaw clenched, but she kept up her innocent expression. After a few moments, she asked, “Is there something else I can help you with?”

  “No. I just wanted to come to an understanding.”

  “We have.” Her tone was flat.

  He finally nodded and started to head back to the house, but she could tell he wasn’t happy.

  “Oh, Mr. McDermott?” Catching his attention, he turned back to her. “While I might have no trouble interacting with you in the future, I’m afraid my brother won’t take kindly to you being here. I’m sure you’re aware he owns the only hotel in town.”

  He nodded grimly. “I’m aware. I’ll figure a way around him.”

  Her first true smile since seeing him lifted her lips. “For your sake, I hope so.”

  Chapter 3

  Lucas casually walked into the hotel in Promise Creek. He didn’t know what he’d been expecting, but this wasn’t it. The other Winthrop hotels he’d stayed in had been cool, polished, and possessed a layer of elegance only the wealthy could afford. The decor and design of their hotels changed with each location, echoing the local community, but it was always clear they were part of the Winthrop empire.

  This hotel, while still possessing the polish he’d expected, was unlike any other. The entrance was smaller, cozier. He felt more intrigued by the décor than dazzled, and as he walked farther into the marbled and heavily-paneled lobby, he realized he also felt comfortable.

  Even after making his first few millions, whenever he stepped into opulent structures, a part of him feared he still wasn’t good enough. That he never would be. He didn’t feel like that here, and he paused for a moment to figure out why. What was it about the place that welcomed him instead of intimidated him?

  A woman with golden-blonde hair stepped toward him, a friendly smile on her face. “Welcome to the Promise Creek Hotel.”

  Lucas offered the woman a warm smile and a polite bow in greeting before he took in the expensive cut and materials of her gown. Whoever this woman was, she was wealthy. She wasn’t just a greeter for the establishment. “It’s a pleasure to be here.”

  “You’re most welcome. Are you here for a meal or a room?”

  “Both.” He took a deep breath and gave her an honest, appreciative smile. “And from the look and smell of it, I’ve come to the right place.”

  Her lips quirked. “You have. Are you planning to stay long?” she asked, her curiosity evident.

  “I am, if everything goes according to plan.”

  She beamed. “Excellent. Let me lead you to the front desk and they’ll help you get checked in, Mr…?” She blushed. “Forgive me. I forgot introductions. I’m Willow Winthrop, and you are?”

  He glanced over the woman again, taking in every inch of her appearance. So, this was who Rhys had married. She was warm and friendly and genuine, and it surprised him. He’d always thought the Winthrop heir would choose a cold, blue-blooded kind of woman.

  He also knew she was one of the owners of the house they were renting. He held out his hand, guessing she would appreciate the gesture. “I’m Lucas McDermott.” He paused, expecting a reaction, but didn’t get one. Interesting. Maybe Rhys and Abigail had never mentioned him. “I’m one of the owners of the new copper mine.”

  She squeaked. “One of the Copper Kings?” She closed her eyes tight and sealed her mouth, as if berating herself for the slip. “Forgive me. That’s what everyone is calling you around here.”

  He smiled, amused. “No apologies necessary. Every man wants to be a king.”

  Her eyes crinkled as she laughed. “Indeed. Well, from all I hear, you are definitely that.”

  He had no qualms about discussing money. Unlike so many in the upper crust, he was proud of what he’d earned and what he’d done to get it. “Thank you, but I must admit I’m one of the smaller partners.”

  “Hmm.” She looked like she didn’t believe him, but he didn’t argue the point further. “Well, we are glad to have you. Would you like a tray sent to your room, or would you prefer the dining room? I can have either arranged for you.”

  “Please don’t trouble yourself, Mrs. Winthrop. I’ll make my way to the dining room when I’m settled.”

  “Nonsense. And you might as well call me Willow. You’ll be here for some time, and we are doing business together outside of your stay here. I’ll have a table waiting for you whenever you’re ready.”

  He was humbled by her generosity. “Thank you.”

  “It’s my pleasure. We’re grateful to—”

  She broke off when Rhys wrapped possessive arms around her and pulled her in tight. The glare he sent Lucas was ominous, and he could guess what Rhys held back behind the glowering stare.

  Lucas waited, calculating what Rhys would do next. It was something he excelled at. Waiting, watching—then making his move.

  He could see Rhys’ thoughts clearly. He wanted to throw him out…but would he?

  Willow seemed to sense something was off, and paused to look between the two of them. “Is there something I should know?” she finally asked, as she worried her lip with her teeth.

  Lucas smiled at her, and Rhys growled. “Don’t look at her.”

  “Rhys!” Willow yelled, shocked at his behavior.

  Rhys gently squeezed her, and Lucas was amused when, instead of quieting down, Willow turned on him. “Tell me what is going on! This is Mr. McDermott. He’s one of the copper mine owners.”

  Rhys looked up from his wife, his eyes narrowing. “Oh, is he?”

  “I am,” Lucas said confidently. “I’ve already settled the women at the house.”

  “You what?” Rhys’ question was spoken softly, deadly. “You went to the house? Was Abby there?”

  Willow looked even more concerned now. Before Lucas could answer, she placed her hand on Rhys’ chest. “Perhaps this conversation is better had in the office.”

  Rhys’ jaw clenched, but he finally nodded. “Follow me.” He still held Willow’s hand as he turned toward the back hallway. Willow sent Lucas a sympathetic smile, obviously knowing he’d done something to infuriate her husband.

  They walked down tidily kept halls where only the servants trespassed, but as he’d expected, the corridors were well maintained with floor polish and freshly painted walls. He didn’t spy even one scuff mark on the trim. Winthrop could pocket more if he didn’t hold to such rigid maintenance standards in non-public areas, but if this were Lucas’ business, he’d do the same.

  Rhys opened an unassuming door and ushered Willow in, leaving Lucas to follow them. As expected, Rhys took command of the situation from behind the desk and didn’t offer Lucas a seat. “So, you’re here for the copper mine.”

  “Yes. I’m sure you’ve acquired as much information as possible about the operation.”

  “I have, and I was fine with it, happy even—until now. Why wasn’t I told of your involvement when Mr. Eversly came to us a few weeks ago?”

  Lucas wasn’t going to pull any punches. “I’m sure you can guess why.”

  Rhys’ nostrils flared. “You deliberately misled us? What else have you and the other Copper Kings lied about?”

  “We lied about nothing.” It took everything Lucas had to keep a level voice. He was always cool in moments like these. It was what had helped him succeed. But the one t
hing he couldn’t tolerate was being called a liar. “Mr. Eversly omitted my involvement for obvious reasons, but nothing more.”

  Willow cleared her throat. “While I’m sure those reasons are quite clear to Rhys, I’m afraid I have no idea what is going on.”

  Lucas expected Rhys to tell his wife to be quiet, but instead, he gave her his full attention. “Has Abby ever mentioned her past?”

  “No…” She drew out the word as she glanced at Lucas. “But I’m assuming Mr. McDermott is involved in it?”

  “Yes.” Rhys glared at Lucas again. “She’d formed an attachment to him, and then he left her. Her heart was broken.”

  Lucas had known Abby would be hurt when he left, but he’d done it for her own good. He wasn’t going to bring her down to his level, to thrust her into a world where she didn’t belong. He’d loved her too much for that. Besides, she’d recovered just as he knew she would. A little hurt when he left was better than a lifetime of pain and regrets.

  Willow narrowed her eyes at him. “I see.” Obviously, she was close with her sister-in-law.

  Rhys nodded roughly then placed both his palms flat on the desk and leaned forward, eyeing Lucas. “We have a problem. The lease on the house is locked down tight, thanks to your lawyers, and there’s no getting out of it. Also, the claim is already yours, and I know no matter how much I fight it, I’ll never win. But then, I’m sure you arranged it all that way.”

  Lucas inclined his head. “If our situations were reversed, I doubt you’d do anything differently.”

  He could see Rhys wanted to disagree, but Lucas knew one thing about the man—he was honorable to a fault and never condoned lying. It was something they had in common.

  “Just tell me. Are you staying long?” Rhys asked.

  “Yes. Several months, at least.”

  Rhys looked away and swore quietly. “You’ve put me in a bad position, Lucas.”

  Lucas nodded, acknowledging it easily. He’d known both Abigail and Rhys lived in the area, but he truly thought everything between them would have been long forgotten. It had almost been eight years since he’d left her. She didn’t still have feelings for him. He would have sensed them when he’d spoken to her at the house. No, this was Rhys being overprotective of her, as he’d always been.