Seaside Kisses

by Stacy Claflin

  She drove to the post office imagining the happy faces of the customers receiving their packages. That had always been enough to make her happy before. She had to find a way to make that enough again. It was time to forget about Rafael Hunter.

  Eleven

  Rafael slid his new phone into his pocket, grumbling to himself. He looked down at the register in front of him, trying to figure out his next move.

  "What's the matter?" Zachary asked, looking up from the laptop.

  "The insurance won't cover the garage door because I haven't reached the threshold yet."

  "Threshold?"

  "He talked circles, confusing me. I finally gave up. It has something to do with the damage not being enough to qualify. It's all red tape mumbo-jumbo. All insurance companies are the same—they'll take people's money all day long, but will fight tooth and nail to avoid paying."

  "But you and Dad fixed it, right?" Zachary asked. "It's not really a big deal."

  "Dad and I both think it needs to be replaced. It's not going to hold forever, and now is when I need to collect the money."

  Zachary looked around the store. "I'm sure soon you'll be rolling in dough, and you won't have to worry about petty change to cover a garage door."

  "Right."

  "Either that, or I'll be rolling in my book royalties, and I can pay you back for fixing my car."

  "When did I fix your car?" Rafael asked.

  Zachary laughed. "If you don't remember, then I don't owe you."

  Rafael shrugged, and then turned his attention to the stack of papers next to him. As much as he loved technology, sometimes planning with a paper and pencil was his preferred method. He had several lists for the upcoming grand opening. He flipped through the stack, pretty happy with what he had.

  With the help of his brothers and their fiancées, he had a massive list of giveaways. Those would draw in a crowd, and once they were inside, they would look around. If they didn't buy that day, they would think of him the next time they had a special occasion. With any luck, he could talk to some of the high schoolers about the upcoming Homecoming dance. Most would have already bought or rented their formal wear, but there were always those who waited, and the dance would be a week after Rafael's big event.

  He found a pencil and made some more notes, thinking of ideas to best promote the grand opening to the younger crowd. They would need to design the fliers soon, maybe today, in order to get them into as many hands as soon as possible. He scribbled some more notes, and then stopped when he ran out of ideas.

  Rafael stared at the paper in front of him, trying to think of any other improvements. The only thing that came to mind was having Cruz add some custom artwork. Though, if he did, Cruz would probably bring up the tattoo again. Rafael had liked the idea initially, but had second thoughts. It was a good thing Cruz didn't even have his studio yet. A tattoo was the kind of thing Rafael wanted to be one hundred and ten percent sure about.

  Part of him wanted to know what Amara thought about them. She struck him as the kind of girl who would be put off by tattoos, but he really didn't know much about her at all. He wouldn't have thought she'd stay up all night to make sure he didn't die from a cat allergy, either. She probably had plenty of other surprises as well.

  "Amara?" Zachary asked.

  Rafael shook his head, trying to clear it. "What did you say?"

  "Are you thinking about her?"

  "What makes you say that?" Rafael asked. "I'm planning the grand opening."

  Zachary nodded, looking like he didn't believe Rafael.

  "What?" Rafael asked again.

  "You like her."

  "What is this? The fifth grade?" Rafael asked. "You going to try to give me a swirly, too?"

  Zachary laughed. "That was the vibe I got when you were talking to her outside."

  Rafael arched a brow. "What, that I like her? Or a fifth grade vibe?"

  "Both. Watching you guys was like watching two kids at a party, both hoping the other would ask them to dance. Instead, you both walked away pouting, because no one did."

  Rafael shook his head. "Shut up. I told you how I feel about relationships. I'm done, and I can't say I'll ever be ready to try again."

  "You know what you should do?" Zachary asked.

  "I'm not sure I want to know."

  Zachary's eyes lit up. "This is a good idea."

  "And…?"

  "Thought you didn't want to know," Zachary teased.

  "Look, little brother," Rafael warned, definitely feeling like a fifth grader now. He was half-ready to pull up his sleeves and show his brother a playful fist.

  "You know what would be better than these mannequins?" Zachary asked.

  Rafael thought for a moment. "Live models."

  Zachary nodded, not saying anything.

  "Amara," Rafael whispered.

  "Ask her."

  Rafael's pulse raced. "It would be a good excuse to spend some time with her."

  "And think of how pretty she'll look in some of those dresses you've designed."

  There was no denying that. Amara would make them shine.

  "I bet Jasmine would be willing to help her get ready. Her students had a big show recently, and she helped some of them with their hair and makeup—and she was phenomenal. Truly professional."

  Rafael's mouth went dry. "You think Amara would say yes?"

  "It's like I said, you were both acting like you wanted the other to ask for the dance."

  "I don't know," Rafael said.

  "Why are you so nervous? You've always had more self-confidence than anyone I know."

  Rafael couldn't answer that question. All he knew was that he didn't want to do anything to risk messing up what could possibly be a good thing with Amara. But at the same time, when he'd returned to Kittle Falls, finding love hadn't been on his to-do list.

  "Oh, you know what would be even better than asking Amara?" asked Zachary.

  "No."

  "You modeling clothes alongside her."

  Rafael's eyes widened. "Me? I don't model."

  "Who better? You know all the moves, having been to a thousand fashion shows. And besides, you and her would look perfect together."

  "I'll think about it."

  "You should—but don't wait too long. I've got to get going. I promised Dad that before dinner I'd clear off the roof from the last wind storm."

  "Okay. You got everything ordered for the big sale?" Rafael asked.

  Zachary nodded. "It's all taken care of. Everything should be here with plenty of time to spare."

  "Thanks for all your help."

  "No problem, and I'll talk with Jasmine about helping with your model."

  Rafael ran his hands through his hair. He had to admit he liked the idea of Amara modeling his clothes—a lot. But he wasn't sure she'd say yes. Would she want to get in front of a bunch of people? Even though she'd changed, she still seemed a bit on the shy side. Or was that him remembering what she'd been like all those years ago?

  If she did agree, then that also added a whole new element to the big event. He pulled out a blank page and scribbled notes, breaking the pencil lead several times. He would have to rearrange the store, allowing for a walkway down the center. It would also likely mean that the door prizes would actually have to be by the door, and possibly outside.

  Once he was done, he thought it was possible to pull off. He didn't know why he hadn't thought of it himself, but then again, Zachary was the creative one. Sure, Rafael used some creativity, but mostly he just tried to stay ahead of trends. He was hardly a trend-setter himself.

  He stuck his hand in his pocket, running his finger along the ridges of his phone protector. It was supposed to keep it from breaking if dropped—it would have helped him if he'd had one the other night.

  Rafael's stomach twisted in knots thinking about asking Amara to model his clothes. Would she want to? Or would she think he was full of himself for thinking that she would have any interest?

  Was it h
is feelings for her that had him feeling this way, or was it from the rejection back in LA? He straightened his back. He wasn't going to let Tony and Kristine turn him into a fearful, timid mouse. No. That would mean they won.

  He took his leather jacket from the back of the chair where he'd left it, slung it over his shoulder, and headed outside. Somehow, it was already dark out. He must have spent more time writing notes than he'd thought. Rafael locked up and headed for the candy shop.

  "Got a big sale coming up, do you?" came a snarky voice from behind.

  Rafael turned around to see the owner of the wedding store. "It's a grand opening."

  She scowled. "I hope you're not intending to steal my business."

  He bit back a snide comment, refusing to stoop to her level. Especially if she or her sons had been behind either the egging or his garage—or both. "On the contrary. I think our businesses could complement each other. Your focus is on weddings, and I provide honeymoon attire. I had actually thought we could work together and send clients each other's way."

  "I have plenty of business. I don't need your handouts."

  "Handouts?" Rafael asked in disbelief. "Any businessperson knows that working together is a lot more effective than going at it alone."

  She made a harrumphing noise. "I've done just fine without you for a long time. I've probably been in business since you were in diapers."

  He shrugged. "Your loss."

  "Is that a threat?" she asked.

  "What? How would it be?"

  She narrowed her beady eyes at him. "Sounds like one to me."

  Rafael stepped closer. "I don't make threats, and I certainly don't do anything underhanded to intimidate anyone or try to ruin anyone's life or business."

  "What are you saying?" she asked.

  "With me, what you see is what you get, lady. If you have something to say to me, just say it."

  "The only thing I have to say is don't take my business from me."

  "I wouldn't dream of it. Anything else?" he asked.

  "Nope. Stay out of my hair, and I'll stay out of yours."

  "Sounds good to me. That includes property, too."

  "What?" she asked, appearing genuinely surprised. Maybe she didn't know about his property damage. Her sons were probably working on their own, likely looking for any small reason to vandalize. They'd certainly found a good enough reason in Rafael.

  "Have a nice day," Rafael said through gritted teeth. If nothing else, he would take the high road.

  She spun around, muttering something and went back into her shop.

  Rafael shook his head. And to think he'd thought being next to the bridal shop was going to be a good thing. He glanced over at the candy shop, his mood soured. He'd been so excited to ask Amara to model his clothes, but now he couldn't bring himself to. Not in this mood.

  She was busy with customers, anyway. He watched as she held up various candies, with a beautiful smile on her face. Maybe he could ask her about it in the morning, when he was fresh and rested.

  That might be a better idea, actually. He could spend some more time thinking about how to ask her so that he didn't come off sounding pompous.

  Rafael pulled out his phone and sent a text to Cruz.

  You free?

  4 what?

  Art for my fliers.

  Yeah. At shop. Dead here.

  Thx.

  Rafael looked back over at the candy store. Amara was holding up a chocolate masquerade mask over her face, dancing for a couple kids who doubled over with laughter.

  He couldn't help smiling despite his mood. He didn't want to go in and bother her. Tomorrow would be better, and he'd have the perfect way to ask her so she wouldn't think he was trying to show off.

  Twelve

  Amara stepped out into the bitter cold. It felt like winter was already pushing its way in, and it wasn't even Halloween yet. Winter wasn't technically supposed to start until right before Christmas. Fall had come sweeping in early, keeping many of the summer tourists inside when they should have been out enjoying the weather and shopping.

  Luckily, the frigid air hadn't kept the locals indoors. It was Tuesday, and the week had been flying by already because of how hectic the shop had been. This morning had been the craziest she'd seen it since the summer tourist season had been in full swing. Everyone was hurrying to get ready for Halloween, and all the shop owners wanted festive candy and decorations. And that didn't count the orders that kept pouring in from her website.

  Last night, she'd wanted to drop by and talk to Rafael about helping out with his grand opening—if he wanted her help. Her heart swelled inside of her at the thought of spending more time with him. Despite being so busy, she couldn't get him out of her mind. The image of him sleeping so peacefully—and beautifully—kept popping into her mind… along with the secret kiss.

  Amara had brought up the idea of donating some candy to Rafael's event to Alex, and he liked the idea of helping out his old buddy. Even if he wouldn't have been supportive of the plan, Amara was ready to donate some of the candies she used for her website. It would be easy enough to just order more supplies. Overnight shipping was her favorite thing about the business.

  Amara pulled her coat tighter, trying to warm herself. She glanced over at Rafael's shop. It appeared to be open. She could see light coming from inside.

  She walked over, not giving herself the chance to let her nerves talk her out of it. She would just walk in and make her offer. It was what neighbors did, and the proximity of their two shops made them just that. Not to mention the fact that Rafael kept saying how neighborly she was.

  Opening the door, a bell dinged over her head. Rafael looked her way from behind the counter. His eyes widened and his mouth curved upward.

  Amara relaxed. "I hope I'm not bugging you."

  "No, not at all. Come in. How are you?"

  She shivered. "Freezing. I can't believe how chilly it is out there. I'd almost believe it could snow before Halloween. That's actually what brings me in here."

  "The weather?" Rafael looked confused.

  "No." She laughed. "Halloween. Well, candy, actually. I saw your sign for the grand opening, and I wanted to donate some. Everyone loves sweets. You can give them to customers, or whatever you want."

  His eyes lit up. "Really?"

  Amara nodded, suddenly feeling shy.

  "That would be great. We're doing door prizes, including a grand prize package."

  "Oh, fun. Well, whatever you need, just ask." She walked over toward the counter and leaned against it. "Do you have anything in mind? We have all kinds of festive candies. Or if you don't want the holiday theme, I can help you come up with something more… sophisticated."

  He moved his laptop aside and leaned against the counter. Their faces were only inches part. "Actually, I was going to ask you to help with something else."

  "You were?" Her pulse pounded in her ears, and she hoped he couldn't hear it.

  "I was thinking of a fashion show, and I thought,"—he cleared his throat—"I mean, would you like to model some of the women's clothing?"

  Amara's mouth dropped open. She never would have seen that coming.

  "If you don't want to," Rafael said quickly, "don't feel pressured. I just thought they would look nice on you." His face reddened, and he took a deep breath. "Sorry. Usually, I'm much more professional when I ask for things with my business. I don't know what's wrong with me today."

  She felt her own face warm. "I'm honored. I don't know what to say."

  "Yes?" he asked, looking hopeful.

  How could she say no to that? "Of course," she said. "What does it entail?"

  "I'll pick out some of my newest designs, and you'll show them off. We'll have the store set up differently for the day, and I think there will either be a path or carpeting to use for the runway."

  "So, is anyone showing off the men's clothing?" Please say you, she begged silently.

  "My brother seems to think I should. I've never modeled
my own clothes, though. Do you think that would be obnoxious?"

  Amara's heart nearly pounded out of her chest. "Not at all. I think it would be fun to share the walkway with you."

  He looked pleased. "Really?"

  She nodded. "Yeah. You should listen to your brother, he has good ideas. Is there anything else you need? I'll bring some prize packages. What time should I plan on being here?"

  "If you could bring the packages here in the next day or two, that would help a lot. Or at least let me know how many you'll bring. Do you want to put anything into the grand prize?" he asked.

  "Sure. I can find something especially cool."

  Rafael smiled. "Perfect. I'll let you know what time to arrive on the day of."

  "Sounds great. Well, I'm headed for lunch, so I'll see you later."

  "Mind if I join you?" he asked.

  Mind? She nearly laughed. "Of course not. I was just going to grab a quick bite."

  "Perfect," he said. "And it's my treat."

  "You don't have to."

  "After last weekend, I do, actually." He grinned.

  Amara would have melted into a puddle if it was physically possible. Instead, she smiled. "Do you have anything in mind?"

  He looked into her eyes. "Are you in a rush?"

  She glanced at the clock behind him. "No. I just don't want to leave Alex to fend for himself when the after-school rush hits. The kids have serious sugar cravings lately."

  "It's the time of the year. I remember stashing candy all over the place." He stepped away from the counter and grabbed a black leather coat.

  Amara couldn't help giggling. "I remember you sneaking bites during class."

  He raised an eyebrow, slipping his arm into the jacket. "You do?"

  "We used to sit next to each other in a lot of classes because of our last names," she said.

  "I know. I didn't think you even noticed I was there."

  They stared into each other's eyes.