Upstairs Downstairs Baby

“Nice flowers,” she heard Linc say from the back door.

Claire looked up from her project and spied him entering the kitchen. Her heart gave a foolish little jump. He looked handsome in his navy blazer with the delphinium-blue pocket square that matched his eyes.

“Thank you, but the arrangement is far from done.”

“I like the colors you picked out.” He approached the center island where she was working and selected a stem of pale gold freesia. Setting the horn-shaped flowers to his nose, he inhaled. “This one smells good.”

“I thought the color and shape would go nice with the Golden Forest china. What do you think?”

Although Claire doubted Linc cared which of his three sets of dishes she chose, talking—or babbling, in this case—kept her from doing something foolish, like blurting out the story of her encounter with Everly.

“And the Waterford, of course,” she continued. “Your mother would approve. What do you think?”

She clamped her lips together to shut down the flow of words, all too aware that Linc was eyeing her. Damn that woman in the grocery store for filling her head with thoughts of being in a steamy affair with Linc.

“Sounds like you have everything in hand.” He glanced at the spot where Honey had found the jewelry box and envelope and then surveyed the rest of the kitchen.

When his brows drew together, Claire realized what he must be looking for. “I put it in the cabinet,” she explained, wiping her hands on a dish towel before crossing to where she’d secured the present. “Honey was all over it. We’ve been working on her colors and she noticed the box was blue.”

“Blue,” Honey chortled from the kitchen table, clapping her hands enthusiastically. “Mama. Down.”

“Finish your lunch, baby.” Claire retrieved the box and envelope and extended it to Linc.

“You didn’t open it?” he asked in surprise.

“No.” Claire gave her head a vigorous shake. She’d never step across the line like that. Was that what he’d made of her bout of awkward chattiness earlier? That she’d snooped and felt guilty about it? She placed the gift on the counter in front of him and returned to her flower arranging. “I’d never do something like that.”

“Mama. Down.”

A weird buzzing filled Claire’s ears, distorting her daughter’s voice, as a lazy smile played over Linc’s lips. He set his hand on the counter and leaned in her direction.

“Did you even look at the envelope?”

A lock of blond hair fell across his forehead, lending a boyish charm to his already overwhelming handsomeness. She realized his effect on her had grown stronger lately.

What would it be like to have him close his arms around her and kiss her hard and deep? Just the thought of being crushed between his ripped body and the unyielding kitchen cabinets made her blood heat. She reflexively clamped down on the rose stem she was holding and winced as a thorn pricked her thumb.

“No,” she said, sticking the injured thumb in her mouth. “Should I have?”

“Mama!” Honey was rocking in her booster seat, demanding that Claire release her.

“It’s for you.”

Her stomach dropped to her toes at his sly grin. He’d bought her a gift? Why would he have done that? From his triumphant expression, he was obviously pleased with himself. Despite her lingering discomfort from Everly’s scandalous assumptions, Claire found herself smiling back at Linc with no clear understanding why.

“For me?” In her bewilderment, she sounded like a complete chowderhead.

“Your name is on the envelope, isn’t it?”

“It is?” Her pulse jerked in an erratic rhythm as she shifted her gaze to the small box and envelope.

He tapped the center of the paper where Claire was scrawled in Linc’s familiar handwriting. “It is.”

“I don’t understand.” The jewelry box felt heavy in her hand.

“You’ve been working for me for a year. I bought you something to celebrate your anniversary.”

“You didn’t have to do that.” But she was thrilled that he had and more than a little relieved that was all there was to it.

She’d enjoyed working for him this past year. His house had become her sanctuary and she’d do anything to protect that. Feeling safe was a luxury she hadn’t known since she’d become pregnant with Honey.

“I wanted to.” His deep voice resonated through her. “Why don’t you take a look at what I got you. I’ve been dying to see if you like it.”

Something in his tone made her skin flush hot.

“Of course I’ll like it.” Telling herself it was silly to feel so breathless over an anniversary token didn’t stop the flutters in her stomach. “You have wonderful taste.”

Linc was always doing something nice for the women in his life. His mother loved to collect cloisonné pillboxes, so he was always on the lookout for them. And whenever he visited her house, he never showed up empty-handed. It might be a bouquet of flowers, sugar-glazed pecans or a bottle of craft bourbon—Linc was always thinking of what Bettina might enjoy.

He’d been the same way with London. In her case, his purchases had been expensive pieces of jewelry or designer handbags. His sister liked gadgets, so whenever Linc ran across something new and innovative, he made sure Sawyer got one.

Conscious of Linc’s keen blue eyes on her, Claire started with the card. As she glanced at the cover, some of the tightness in her throat eased. He’d chosen something funny, a drawing of a dog wearing a big smile above the words Thank You. But when she flipped open the card and glanced at what he’d written, tears stung her eyes.

You’ve been a bright spot in my life for the last year. Thanks for all you’ve done. —Linc

“That’s so nice,” Claire croaked out, blinking rapidly to clear her vision. “Honey and I have really appreciated how kind and generous you’ve been. Not to mention patient.” She indicated the kitchen table, where her daughter was throwing herself back and forth in the chair and chanting to get down.

“It’s been great having you here.” He went over to lift Honey into his arms. “Both of you.”

Claire refused to give in to the warmth suffusing her at the sight of her daughter in Linc’s arms. It wasn’t an unusual occurrence. Linc always enjoyed Honey’s company. So why today was Claire overwhelmed by sentiment? Because that woman at the grocery store had drawn a startling connection between her and Linc? Or was it the notion Everly had put in Claire’s head that she was in a vulnerable position living and working in the same house as a man as attractive as her boss? Not that he would ever take advantage of her. But what if it wasn’t a matter of him taking advantage?

For the first time since Jasper had left for his final overseas tour, Claire confronted the ache building in her body. She’d been doing a decent job of focusing on Honey’s needs and ignoring her own—especially while Linc was engaged to London. He’d been completely off-limits while he’d belonged to another woman.

But now that Linc was single, parts of Claire felt reckless and uninhibited. She longed to wrap her arms around Linc’s neck and plant hot kisses on his sensual lips. To feel his strong hands slide over her heated flesh.

She gulped as her body was battered by cravings she suspected Linc could satisfy only too well. Damn it. She was falling for her boss. This would not do.

Three

Silence reigned in the gourmet kitchen as Linc freed the toddler from her booster seat and set her on her feet. Giggling, Honey clung to his leg for a couple seconds before racing into the sunroom, where her toys were kept.

When he turned back to Claire, he saw that she was staring at the contents of the jewelry box. Her slight frown worried him.

“You don’t like them?”

At his question, Claire took a couple breaths and seemed to gather herself. “It’s too much.”

Linc chuckled warmly. “I assure you it’s not nearly enough.”

“They’re beautiful.”

“You like turquoise, right?”

For a span of a few heartbeats, Claire seemed to stop breathing. Had it been too much that he’d not only remembered her favorite color, but also that he’d found her something quirky to match her style?

“I’ve never seen anything like these,” she murmured.

“I got them at that boutique Sawyer’s friend owns. A local artist makes them. Each pair is one of a kind. I thought you’d appreciate that.”

“I do.” A smile accompanied her words, but it lacked something, making Linc frown.

“You’re sure you like them? I have the receipt if you want to return them and choose something else.” Hopefully she wouldn’t. He wanted her to wear something he’d picked out for her.

“I’d never do that,” she rushed to assure him. “They’re beautiful and I’ll treasure them.” As if to indicate the conversation was at an end, she set the top back on the box and put it aside. “Thank you.”

Linc wondered if the earrings were destined for a drawer, never to see the light of day again. His mood dipped. This wasn’t at all the outcome he’d been hoping for. He wanted her to love the earrings and think of him every time she wore them. Each time they tickled her neck, he’d imagine the contact was his lips grazing across her soft, fragrant skin. If he couldn’t touch her, he wanted something from him to caress her.

“You’re not going to wear them?” He couldn’t stop himself from asking the question.

She shook her head. “They’re too fancy for every day.”

“Then you’ll wear them tonight when I take you and Honey out for dinner.”

She looked appalled. “Dinner? Tonight?”

“Part two of your anniversary celebration.”

“But I have so much to do to get ready for tomorrow night’s dinner party.” She gestured to the flowers. “Why don’t I make something and we can eat here.”

“I don’t want you cooking or cleaning up.” He assumed she’d appreciate eating a meal she hadn’t prepared. “Let me give you a break from all that. A thank-you for all you’ve done for me.”

Her mouth opened and closed as if she wanted to continue arguing. At last, she nodded. “May I pick the place?”

“Of course. Where would you like to go?”

“There’s a seafood restaurant by Wappoo Creek I’ve been dying to try.”

“If it’s seafood you want, the yacht club has a fantastic restaurant.”

When her eyes widened in dismay, Linc wondered what was wrong.

“I’d really rather not go there.” Her chin lifted and her body language screamed determination. “And you said I could choose wherever I wanted.” When he nodded, she relaxed. “Besides, I’d rather go somewhere more kid-friendly, since Honey is coming along.”

“There are always families eating at the yacht club. You don’t need to worry about Honey being out of place.”

She shook her head. “How was lunch with your mother?”

Her change of subject reminded him of his mother’s request. He grimaced.

“She wants to throw a party and asked if you could cater it.”

“Of course.” Even as she spoke, her gaze grew unfocused. The wheels were already turning as she sorted through what treats she might prepare. “When is the party?”

“Two weeks.”

Another woman might have protested, but Claire merely nodded. “What’s the occasion?”

“Nothing special.” No need to explain that his mother intended to throw him to the wolves. “She just wants to invite some friends over.”

“Did she mention how many people?”

“Not really.” He sounded positively grim.

Claire gave him a curious once-over before saying, “I’ll give her a call and discuss the particulars.”

“If it gets to be too much, let me know. I don’t want you feeling overwhelmed.”

“Don’t worry.” She dismissed his concern with a flick of her hand. “Steve and Jenny will be here for your party tomorrow. I’ll ask them if they’re available. It’s a little last-minute, but if they’re busy, I’m sure they’ll know some other people who could help serve.” Claire glanced at the flowers on the counter. “Now, I’d better get back to these. I have lots to do before tomorrow night.”

“Dinner at six?” Linc proposed, naming an earlier time than he usually ate so they could have a leisurely meal and still get home for Honey’s bedtime.

“Sure. That will be fine.”

Nodding, Linc headed for the stairs. With a packed schedule from February to October, he should have appreciated the downtime during off-season. Instead, he chafed at the inactivity. It gave him too much time to think.

Lately, he’d been preoccupied with life after baseball. He’d had a great run, but he was going to be thirty-four when his contract was up. Despite the fact that his performance hadn’t slowed, at that age, there was no way he would get another big deal. Nor was he even sure he’d still be playing for the Barons. How much longer did he think his career in the major leagues was going to last?

So what was he planning to spend the rest of his life doing? It wasn’t as if he needed the money. Even after taking care of his mother and sister, funding the charities he worked with, and buying and restoring his house, he’d spent only a small percentage of his millions. Most of the money went into investments that would sustain him long past his contract’s end.

What he needed was to find something that inspired him. Because when baseball no longer consumed his life, he was going to go crazy. He envied Knox’s passion for restoring Charleston’s historic properties and his love of sailing, both locally and all over the world. Linc had joined Knox on several adventures but preferred a spacious suite on land to the claustrophobic quarters of a sailboat.

Knox’s face appeared on the screen of Linc’s phone, as if his thoughts had summoned his friend. He answered the call.

“What’s up?”

“My afternoon appointment canceled,” Knox said, sounding chipper. “Want to hit the batting cages so I can give you a few tips? Maybe you can bring your average up next season.”

Linc grunted good-naturedly as he took the hit. He’d been in a slump for the last four weeks of the season. All the sports commentators pointed to his broken engagement as the reason, but that had been the cure, not the cause of his problem.

“Sure,” he said. “I need to change. Meet you in thirty?”

“See you then.”

An hour later, as he took his turn with the pitching machine, Linc felt some of his tension melt away. Playing baseball had always let him escape whatever troubled him. It had been a godsend when his father went to jail and then divorced Bettina, abandoning the three of them to start a new life. Sometimes Linc wondered if he would have been good enough to make it in the majors if he hadn’t practiced so much back then.

He’d devoted every spare second to batting practice and perfecting his fielding techniques. Granted, he’d been endowed with a great deal of natural talent as well, but mostly he attributed his success to hard work and determination.

“Want to grab a beer after this?” Knox asked as they exchanged places.

“Can’t.”

Knox shot him a look. “Got plans?”

“I’m having dinner...” Linc paused, gripped by a sudden reluctance to tell his best friend about the anniversary dinner with Claire. He didn’t want to hear Knox’s opinion on taking the beautiful widowed housekeeper and her adorable toddler out to dinner.

“Anyone I know?” Knox quizzed, his tone sly.

“It’s not like that,” Linc countered. As much as he hated keeping Knox in the dark, Linc didn’t want to get into a huge discussion about Claire. Deciding a subject change was in order, he steered his best friend on to the topic he loved best. “How’s the King Street project coming along? Have you got the plans approved yet?”

Six months ago Knox had purchased a building in the heart of the business district and was in the process of getting the permits to turn it into a ten-unit luxury condo complex. He’d paid four million for the property, and at the moment it was occupied by college students.

Working with their friend Austin’s architectural firm, he’d commissioned plans that would include two private roof decks, as well as amenity space that would hold up to forty-eight people in the rear. Built in 1947, the building wasn’t a historic property, but the location offered an opportunity for people to buy in the downtown area and that was always a draw.

“Not yet. The BAR requested we tweak a couple things on the rooftop decks before they’d give the go-ahead.” The Board of Architecture Review met only twice a month, so the approval process was never speedy. “We’re slotted into the agenda for next week, so hopefully the third time’s the charm.”

Knox didn’t sound particularly stressed about the delays. They were the norm when doing any construction or development in the old city and the historic district. In fact, as frustrating as the board could be as they scrutinized projects from a dozen different angles, Linc knew Knox appreciated the board’s dedication to preserving Charleston’s past.

Of course, there was the other, less sentimental motivation for keeping the romance of Charleston’s historic district alive: tourism. The city survived on its five million visitors each year who brought in nearly four billion dollars in revenue. And the number-one reason cited for visiting Charleston was the city’s history and historic sites, followed by restaurants and local cuisine.

“I hope you get the approval this time around,” Linc said.

Knox nodded. “Are you still planning on making the hunting trip?” Knox’s family owned a large plantation a couple hours west of Charleston. Each fall, Knox brought a handful of his friends there for a weekend of deer hunting.

Linc cursed. Until now, he hadn’t realized that the hunting trip and his mother’s party were happening at the same time.

“I’m going to have to skip it this year. My mom’s decided to host a party and wants me to attend.”

“Can’t you tell her you already have plans?”

“Not exactly.” Linc was starting to understand how the deer must feel as Knox’s buddies gathered for their weekend of sport. “I’m afraid the party is about finding someone for me to date.”

“I’m not surprised,” Knox said with a broad grin. “She wasn’t too happy when you picked London. I’m sure she’ll make sure every woman there will be perfect for you.”

“Their pedigrees will be everything she could ever ask for,” Linc replied. “As for whether they’ll be perfect for me...that remains to be seen.”

* * *

Claire noticed a slight tremble in her hands as she dressed Honey in a new outfit to go out to dinner with Linc. Excitement raced through her body, bringing a sparkle to her eyes and color to her cheeks. She’d noticed the betraying effect while applying eyeliner and sweeping brick-red gloss across her smiling lips. It was impossible to subdue her high spirits despite several reproachful warnings to herself.

This was just a casual dinner between a boss and employee to celebrate one year of employment. Common enough in a professional setting. Nothing to get giddy over. Yet scolding herself didn’t settle her jittery nerves. Feeling this way would only bring her trouble. Plain and simple, she found her boss attractive, and instead of shutting her emotions down, she reveled in the thought that they were going to spend the evening together.

Fight it though she might, Claire had always been led by her emotions. If she’d done a better job listening to logic, she might have avoided getting involved with Jasper. On the other hand, whatever mistakes she’d made with him had given her Honey, and she wouldn’t trade her daughter for anything. Still, in the past few years, she’d become more cautious when following her heart.

“There,” she told her daughter, stepping back to admire the pale blue sundress covered in bright butterflies she’d recently bought. “You look so nice.”

A quick glance at the clock showed they were running late. Claire twisted her daughter’s hair into a loose topknot and fastened a bow. She felt a twinge at how adorable the two-year-old looked. Honey’s hair had the perfect length and texture to do all sorts of fun braids and updos, and when Claire had time, she enjoyed experimenting with ideas she gleaned off the internet.

“Can you play with your toys for a couple minutes while Mama gets dressed?”

Honey nodded and headed toward the books that lined the lower shelf of the nightstand in her room.

Claire headed next door to slip into the dress she had laid out. It was a simple short-sleeved dress, the color of wisteria. She fit her feet into a pair of beige sandals and snagged a white sweater out of her closet in case she needed it.

In less than five minutes, she returned to her daughter’s room to collect Honey, and the two of them headed downstairs.

Linc awaited them in the kitchen. He wore khaki pants and a navy cotton sweater over a white button-down shirt. The look was perfect for the casual seafood restaurant near Wappoo Creek.

“Oh, good,” he said, “you both have sweaters. I reserved a table outside. I thought you might enjoy the view.”

“That sounds wonderful.”

Linc escorted them out to his car. Earlier he’d borrowed her keys so he could transfer Honey’s car seat from Claire’s Saab into the back of his white BMW X6. As she slid into the passenger seat, Claire couldn’t help but savor the thrill of being enfolded in the soft camel leather. The Saab was in good shape, but it couldn’t compare to this sort of luxury.

“All set?” Linc asked, glancing at Claire.

She nodded. As they made their way west on Broad Street, her anxiety began to fade. She and Linc had dined together several times in the year she’d been working for him. Granted, all those times had been impromptu meals in the kitchen or out by the pool, but it wasn’t like this was some momentous occasion. It was a work dinner.

“I’ve been thinking about the party my mom wants to have,” he began, breaking the silence as they crossed the Ashley River. “I hope you don’t feel obligated to do it.”

“Of course not.” While Linc was gone for the summer, Claire didn’t have a lot to do and she had assisted Dolly with three of Bettina’s dinner parties. “I’m always happy to help her out.”

“It’s extra work and, of course, you’ll be compensated.”

While she understood what he was getting at and appreciated his attempt to be fair, the conversation did serve to drive home that she worked for him. Maybe this was exactly what she needed to hear. A reminder of their relative positions. He was the boss. She, the employee. It cut the jubilant buzz about their evening nearly in half, so that by the time they reached the restaurant, she’d successfully tamed her wayward pulse.

Linc took charge of getting Honey out of her car seat and carrying her into the restaurant. Although the two-year-old was perfectly capable of walking, Linc always seemed to be in a hurry to get places and her short stubby legs were no match for his long ones.

The hostess led them to a table that overlooked the water. Although called a creek, the average width of the Wappoo was ninety feet. It connected the intracoastal waterways around Charleston. Beyond the weathered wooden railing extended a dock, where several small boats were tied.

Linc settled into his chair, looking completely at home in the casual atmosphere. “I didn’t realize they had a dock,” he said. “Next time we should come by boat.” He noticed her looking at him and cocked an eyebrow. “What?”

“You look like you fit right in.”

“Why shouldn’t I?”

“This place is a little more casual than what I imagine you’re used to.”

“You forget I didn’t always have money. In fact, I waited tables at a place very much like this the summer before my senior year of high school.”

“I have a hard time picturing you waiting tables.”

“Why?”

She was used to thinking about him as someone she took care of. It was hard to imagine him taking orders and schlepping food.

“You don’t really seem the sort.”

“The money was good.” He paused and regarded her with a slight frown. “I know what it’s like to struggle and worry about taking care of my family.”