Lake Effect by Johannah Bryson Page B

months ago, in May, under less than stellar circumstances.” Shelby felt herself blush as she remembered landing face first into his crotch.
    â€œI just feel, given that initial meeting, it would be better to present my ideas first and let Mr. Packard, Wyeth, meet me after the fact.” Shelby looked down at her lap, afraid to see the look on the man’s face.
    â€œI’ll not lie to you, Shelby, due to the amount of money this venture will entail, you will be thoroughly investigated. I’m certain you’ve done your homework as well. However, having seen your ideas and now meeting with you in person, I’m perfectly satisfied. I’m certain your reasoning is sound.
    â€œI think so but just to be certain, let’s add a clause that states should Wyeth not be satisfied after my identity is divulged, he has the right to cancel the contract. Fair enough?” Shelby looked at Rick who nodded his head.
    â€œFair enough.” James extended his hand and shook hers.
    â€œMr. O’Toole, I have no fear of your investigation, in fact, I welcome it. I’m happy to supply you with names of past employers, friends and family.”
    â€œThat won’t be necessary. I think we’ll be content with your financial records and a credit background check. I will tell you, though, unless you call me James, the deal is off.”
    His easygoing manner was infectious and soon Shelby found herself laughing and talking with James as if they were old friends. They had a drink to celebrate the closing of the deal and Rick insisted that James join them for dinner. James was so likeable that Shelby was soon relaxed and laughing.
    â€œI have the keys to the manor house for you if you’d like to go in and take measurements. Wyeth will be returning in a few days at which point we can have that meeting.”
    â€¢ • •
    â€œHey, Romeo. How’s the love life, as if I couldn’t tell from that look on your face.” Janele entered her mother’s kitchen and unceremoniously plopped James Jr. into his uncle’s lap.
    Wyeth hoisted his nephew up high in the air and caught him, resulting in squeals of delight from the small child. “Again, Wyweth!”
    â€œThat’s Uncle Wyweth to you, squirt.” He sat the child on his knee and helped him out of the windbreaker he was wearing.
    â€œShe won’t even speak to me. I’ve tried. I saw her in the library a few weeks back and she ran like a rabbit being chased by a dog.
    â€œIf she’s worth fighting for then you’ll just have to wait her out. Give her time. From everything you’ve told us about her, it could just be that her emotions are close to the surface — and for good reason. I can’t even fathom losing James so young.” She shivered. “James called too, Wyeth, said to tell you the deal has been struck and he is looking forward to your arrival. I didn’t correct him. I want my visit to be a surprise.”
    â€œI’m glad you’re going, Janele,” Olivia said. “You need some time for yourself. You run around here like you’re not seven months pregnant. You don’t know when to stop. Wyeth, I’m counting on you and James to see this girl relaxes while she’s up there.” Olivia scooped her grandson up in her arms and received his sloppy kiss on her cheek.
    â€œYou’re just happy to have Junior all to yourself, old woman,” Janele said. “Who are you kidding?” The three of them laughed as Olivia gave her daughter a wicked grin.
    Wyeth was thrilled that Janele had agreed to accompany him on this trip back to Whiskey Island. Helping her up the steps of the small company plane, he thought she looked tired and uncomfortable. He and James would treat her like a queen, and without James Jr. to run after, he had no doubt she’d be feeling refreshed and ready to tackle her last few months of pregnancy.
    â€œAre you anxious to