Tavish’s heart dropped. “That’s not... I didn’t know I’d be working with you when I offered.”

Beans whirred in the grinder. She stared at the counter and gripped the machine as it slowed into silence, didn’t move to add the coffee to the French press on the opposite counter.

“I figured you’d be so busy at the clinic that we’d barely see each other.” He offered the excuse in a gentle voice.

“Whatever.” Lauren swallowed audibly and circled the island to stand close enough to him that she had to tilt her chin to look him in the eye. He had a good foot on her, something she’d always complained about. Why, he didn’t know. It had just made it easier for him to pick her up, pin her against a wall and send her into oblivion. Her fresh-from-the-shower scent drifted into his nostrils, a hint of tropical summer and sugary sweetness. His mouth watered. Just one taste would do it.

* * *

SUTTER CREEK, MONTANA: Passion and happily-ever-afters in Big Sky Country