Winter's Magic (Music City Hearts Series) Read Online Free PDF Page B

begging and there’s no doubt he wanted to.” Beth sat back in her seat and groaned. “I can’t believe I just admitted that out loud.”
    “Never be ashamed about being attracted to a man like Nick. Who wouldn’t be? Has he called you yet?”
    “No. I can’t figure out how he’s going to get reservations at Carlino’s. Dad tried last week. He didn’t have any more luck than I did.”
    Jenny let out a laugh and then covered her mouth as the couple seated next to them peered in their direction. “Maybe I shouldn’t tell you. Let you wonder.”
    Beth straightened in her chair. “You can’t hold out on me now.” She had to know, even if it meant playing the best friend card .
    “Okay. But you didn’t hear it from me.” She leaned forward and whispered, “Chester and Dorsey had the contract on building the restaurant. He knows the owner personally.”
    Beth chuckled and sat back. “Funny how he didn’t mention that tiny detail.”
    “I wouldn’t tell him you found out his secret. You know how men are. He’ll want to leave you guessing. Admiring.”
    “I have a feeling this man is going to keep me guessing on a lot of things.” She paused, as a rush of anxiety washed through her. “In fact, I’m not really sure this is a good idea.” How could she ever get past who he was? His wealth. Connections. Social status. Any day now, he would realize she didn’t fit into his world. She wouldn’t have been invited to his grandfather’s party if not for her parents’ connection to the family.
    “Of course it’s a good idea. Trust me, Nick’s a great guy. I still don’t get why he ever went out with Lauren. He isn’t the type to date someone so shallow, regardless of how pretty she is.”
    “Maybe that’s why they only lasted three months. He found out Lauren’s definition of personal achievement means her nail polish matches her designer handbag.”
    “You’re probably right.” Jenny motioned for the waiter to bring their checks. “You know, despite your efforts to keep your guard up, I can tell you’re excited about this date. You don’t have to admit anything, but I hope you let yourself relax and enjoy the evening.” Jenny reached across the table and grabbed her wrist, shaking it firmly. “Promise me you’ll be open-minded.”
    They walked the short distance back to the spa and talked about their plans for the following week. She often went with Jenny when she volunteered at the Nashville Children’s Clinic. Her friend would be spending the afternoon shopping for coloring books and crayons, glitter pens, holiday pencils, books, and snow globes to give the children. Then they planned to bake sugar cookies Thursday evening to give to the nursing staff and parents.
    As they entered the lobby, Beth noticed the bouquet of red and white Amaryllis in a large crystal vase.
    “They’re gorgeous!” Beth leaned over the counter to grab the card just as Gina stepped back up to the desk.
    “Mr. Chester brought them. Aren’t they beautiful?”
    “Nick came by?” Beth’s heart raced, despite her disappointment in missing him. Her dreams had jumped an octave after his invitation to dinner last night. Just the thought of him stopping by and bringing her flowers made her toes curl.
    Beth checked her cell phone for missed calls—nothing. She’d checked every five minutes since arriving this morning. How could she be so nervous about a phone call?
    Nick did something to her insides. The bowling pins had returned, with a vengeance, and she didn’t know how to get rid of them. She might as well go shopping for coloring books with Jenny for all the work she wasn’t going to get done here.
    Nick sat in his office and stared at the phone on his desk. He held Beth’s business card. He didn’t know why. He’d already memorized her number—both of them. Tapping his pencil, he counted the time until he thought she’d be back from lunch.
    He knew hand-delivering the flowers had been a mistake. He