Her Billionaire Betrayal (Billionaire Bachelor Mountain Cove Book 3)

by Danni Lee Nicholls

  The waiter came and removed the empty plates from the table, ceasing their conversation.

  Cole stood and moved behind Indigo where he helped her from her chair. Turning her toward him, he raised her chin so her eyes met his. “Are you still married to Sam or simply committed to his memory?” Cole brought her hand to his lips and kissed her wedding ring. “I can live with his memory and your love for him. Let me stand beside him in your heart.”

  Indigo’s breath stopped with the warmth of Cole’s lips on her fingers, thawing the cool metal and stone of her ring. Somehow Cole found a way to mingle a new pure joy with grief. Taking his hands in hers, she kissed them. “How do you do this?” she implored him as her sorrow unraveled, becoming bearable by Cole’s gentle presence. “How do you take my heartache and turn it into more love than I ever thought possible? Most men wouldn’t be so accepting.”

  “I’m not most men,” Cole murmured. Bringing her palm to his chest, he gently placed his free hand around her waist. Pulling her close, he began to sway to the soft music playing in the background.

  Indigo melted into him as they danced in delicate partnership. Their slow, languid rhythm took on its own life and breath, filling her with the tender loving intimacy she longed for. “I—yes, I see that.” She pulled away from Cole slightly, but kept her fingers entwined with his. “You’re right when you say I’m committed to Sam’s memory. I don’t want anything to change that.” She looked into Cole’s eyes, the need to share her recollection of Sam overwhelming all. “In fact, just now, I can picture him before he got sick. I love it when those moments reach me. It reminds me that there was more to him and our marriage than sickness, chemo, and caregiving.” Her eyes searched his. “Do you really want to share me with a man who will always hold a place in my heart?”

  Cole rubbed Indigo’s fingers with his own, bringing them to his lips. “Yeah. I do.”

  Indigo loved the touch of his hands, the feel of his lips on her skin, and his body next to hers, even as doubt skittered across her mind. “You say that now, but you might not always feel so generous.”

  Cole closed the space between them. “I’m not interested in taking Sam’s place. I honor what the two of you shared. It’s part of what’s made you the person you are today.”

  Indigo’s heart stilled. He was right. Her chest and lungs expanded with love and breath. This was love upgraded, shared love that could see beyond the past, swell with joy in the present, and look toward the future with hope that there was something beyond memories. Oh, how she longed for this grown-up love, and she wanted to share it with Cole.

  That was the truth, and acknowledging it set some captive part of her soul free. She had been falling in love with Cole one thread at a time until she was as bound to him through some unnamed promise as she was to Sam through their shared vows.

  “Can you give this a chance? Give us a chance?” Cole’s voice was low and intimate.

  Indigo looked into his brown eyes, soft with emotion and hope. Swallowing hard, she softly whispered, “Yes. Nothing would make me happier.” Gently, she slipped her wedding ring from her finger, the band caressing her skin.

  Cole clasped her hands in his, the ring bound up in their entwined grasp. Unfolding her fingers, he tenderly took the ring. Indigo’s breath suspended between the moment of her past and the uncertain future. Could she trust Cole with this gift? What would he do with this precious circle of eternity that carried so much meaning and memory?

  Without another word, Cole took Indigo’s right hand and slid the diamonds over her ring finger. “You will always be his,” he murmured. “But now, maybe you can be mine, too.”

  Indigo pulled her gaze from the ring and looked into Cole’s brown eyes that deepened in the late afternoon sun. He was offering his very soul, and she promised herself to cherish his endowment as he honored her memories of Sam. She offered a fragile smile as she nodded. Yes, she wanted to belong to Cole while continuing to embrace what she and Sam shared. More than anything, she wanted this.

  “May I kiss you?” Cole asked.

  Desire for Cole’s kiss mingled with her newfound truth. Tears streamed down her cheeks as she nodded again. “Yes,” she whispered. She reached up and pulled herself close to him. He enveloped her in his arms, gently gathering her near, their lips coming together in a shared expression of the promise they had just made.

  This wasn’t like their first shared kiss, the explosion of fireworks and desire. This came gently, like fanned embers growing into a flame. The heat of Cole’s body against hers and the insistent yet giving warmth of his mouth drew Indigo into a softer longing that echoed a newfound devotion. It pulled her under, and she willingly gave in to the passion as Cole’s mouth moved with hers. The scent of him rose up along with the warm ocean and breeze, dissolving the frozen grief that had been her habitation since Sam’s death. In its place, there arose tenderness and love that was as soft as the Floridian twilight.

  Cole pulled away and kissed her cheeks where her tears were beginning to dry before kissing her forehead.

  “My goodness,” she said. “Who knew that Arkansas could hold such treasure?”

  “Who knew indeed,” Cole replied as he bent down to kiss Indigo again.

  With Cole’s fervent yet tender kisses and embrace, Indigo gave up resisting what he offered and allowed new and delicate feelings to reach deep into her own being and spirit. The expansion opened her heart and filled every empty part of her. The belt of grief was undone, enlarging her ability to love Cole and maybe even Sam as she moved from childhood to womanhood.

  Chapter Twenty

  Elton waved Indigo through the opening gate the minute she appeared in her Subaru, and although he didn’t exactly smile, his face had softened in the two weeks she’d made nightly visits. She offered him a happy wave as she drove past the security station, through the meandering road that led to Cole’s home. The daffodils lining the drive, opened freely to a honey-colored sun, their yellow heads bobbing with the breeze as she parked the car in Cole’s driveway.

  “Afternoon, Miss,” Trey said from the yard.

  “Hello, Trey. How are you today? Have you seen any bluebirds recently?” She’d gotten to know the gardener and had a fascinating conversation about the birds that lived in the tree out front.

  “I’m good, Miss. I haven’t seen any bluebirds but we’ve been graced with a few warblers.”

  “That’s a good sign.” She sighed. “This place is gorgeous. Every time I come up here, I find something new to appreciate, like that tree over there. It finally broke into flower.”

  “That’s a redbud tree,” Trey said. “It’s native to this area.”

  Indigo admired the beautiful deep magenta buds as the soft spring breeze fluttered around her, bringing with it the scent of an awakening. The beauty helped her overcome her longing for her Pacific Northwest home. Could it be she was really learning to love Arkansas?

  “Mr. Cole is around the corner of the house.”

  “Thanks, Trey.”

  Indigo hurried around the house to find Cole turning over the soil in a raised bed. The lavish early evening sun framed him in light. Watching him work in a light T-shirt and jeans made her smile, and generous love pulsed through her.

  He looked up from his work and forced the spade into the ground. “Hey, look at you.”

  Indigo rushed forward and launched herself at him. Cole caught her and swung her around. She took in his rich scent of juniper mingling and working sweat with earth, the decay of last fall and the rebirth of this spring. She ran her fingers through his soft hair while placing her mouth on his. Since their shared kiss in Florida, she hadn’t been able to get enough of him.

  Thoughts of Sam still laced her heart as his diamonds laced her finger, but Cole’s words were turning into a promise. She could make room in her heart for two men. With her wedding ring on her right hand, Sam was never forgotten, but Cole’s love helped her sew the torn pieces of her heart in ways that also mended her gri
ef.

  Cole put her down, and Indigo turned toward the garden. “What are you doing?”

  “Our whole family loves gardening,” Cole explained. “Because we work with food, we were taught as children to grow our own. It’s something we still do, although Landon’s in LA, so he doesn’t have a garden now. I think it’s part of what’s bothering him. He needs to get back to the earth.” Cole leaned against the spade, placing one foot on the shoulder of the tool, and pointed at the raised beds. “Lettuce will go here. Carrots over there. I’ll plant basil, some new oregano, broccoli, cilantro, peas, beans, cabbage, and squash. And I always try something new. This year, it’ll be bok choy.”

  “What does Trey think of all of this?”

  “He helps out a little, but this is mostly mine. When I’m out of town, he’ll look after it, but when I’m home, it’s my baby.”

  Indigo smiled, delighted in every new thing about Cole. It was as if she was discovering a new and beautiful country. “Can I help?”

  “I’m just finishing up today. How about next time?”

  The idea of working beside Cole in the earth enchanted Indigo. “Sure thing.”

  Cole wiped his brow. “It’s cooling down. Why don’t we get inside for a while?”

  Indigo agreed, and within minutes, she was settled at the dining room table, overlooking the lake with an icy glass of Suzette’s sweet tea. The sound of Suzette working in the kitchen soothed Indigo, bringing peace. Ever since she and Cole had declared their exclusivity, she had discovered a new serene harmony. It hummed in every part of her soul. She cherished the happiness that came with it, removing the confinement of grief and sorrow.

  Cole settled in the chair next to her with his own glass of tea. “Suzette is making dinner, and in a few minutes, the most magnificent aroma will come from the kitchen.”

  “What’s on the menu tonight?” Indigo asked.

  “Chicken cordon bleu and a salad.”

  “That sounds lovely. Mind if I stay?” she flirted.

  He pretended to think.

  She swatted at him, and they both laughed.

  Cole squeezed her fingers. “There’s something I want to show you.” He rose from the table and disappeared before returning with a folder and placing it before her. “Remember when I told you that I want to start a charitable trust for the arts here, in Eureka Springs?”

  “Yeah.” She perked up, her enthusiasm gathering.

  “Well, you’ve inspired me to move forward. I’ve talked to my brother, Landon. We’ve decided that it’s going to be a lead trust, so I’ll retain control, but I’ll want to work with someone.” He sat down, and his words turned soft. “And I’m hoping that will be you. Would you be willing to take this on?”

  Indigo’s eyes grew large, doubt withering her earlier delight. “Cole, I don’t know that much about this kind of thing, and I’m sure there are folks who are better qualified. Have you thought of Phillip and Cara?”

  “Yes.” He hesitated. “I’ve talked with them about this, and they think you’re the perfect candidate. I can teach you everything you need to know, but what can’t be taught is the way you treat people. Despite Pamela’s behavior, you haven’t wanted to harm her and you’ve gained Isabella’s trust. You’ll have to work with all kinds of people with this, and you’re perfect for the job.”

  Indigo shook her head, her misgivings growing exponentially. There was so much money involved. So much time. So much … leadership. “I appreciate what you’re saying, but there’s a big difference between keeping receipts for costumes and being in charge of a trust that consists of …” Indigo looked over the title page of the documents. “… millions of dollars.” Thoughts of her personal looming debt settled over her like a damp spring snow. She needed to tell Cole about Sam’s business plans and the fallout from their bad choices and his cancer diagnosis. But she couldn’t quite bring herself to say the words.

  Dread closed in around her. She loved Sam and had always kept his secrets. No one knew the depth of their financial woes except for Kelsey, and Indigo was sorry for that indiscretion. Kelsey held Sam’s choices against him. Cole might do the same. Or he might hold them against her. After all, in spite of her apprehension about Sam’s ideas and hopes, she had also signed on the dotted line. She was still paying the price.

  Cole continued, “I know you want to start your own business, and there’s no doubt this will all take time. There will be applications to sort through, scholarships and appointments, so you’ll get paid. You have such good instincts, Indigo, especially when it comes to people. And I trust you.”

  Indigo wanted to laugh to relieve the anxiety that rose from the juxtaposition Cole revealed through his words. He knew nothing of her business acumen or the lack of it that made her go against her own better judgment and sign for Sam’s purchases he was sure he needed to become a fishing guide.

  Cole squeezed her fingers, interrupting her thoughts. “Just take this home and think about it, okay? We’ve got plenty of time. It’ll be later this year when things finally start rolling.”

  Indigo sighed with relief over the end of this conversation. She didn’t want to talk about financial matters. She needed time to think and to figure out a way to tell Cole about Sam’s medical bills and poor business choices. Dismay shivered through her. She took a deep breath. “All right. I’ll look this over and think about it.”

  “Good. Now, are you willing to venture out for a walk before dinner?”

  Indigo smiled, grateful that they were no longer talking about money. “Yes, of course.” She stood, leaving the folder on the table.

  Cole put his arm around her and pulled her next to him. “C’mon,” he whispered in her ear. “Let me keep you close.”

  Indigo softened into Cole as they walked out the front door, nestled together, the warmth of his touch spreading through her, soothing every earlier worry. The soft spring twilight brightened the greening leaves of the trees as they reached up toward the cobalt heavens. The bright pink of the redbud tree was brilliant in the fading light.

  From the yard, Indigo looked back. The home was bright with lights and offered a beacon of a cozy retreat in the middle of the darkening forest. “I love your home.” She placed her arms around Cole’s waist, turning toward him and looking into his eyes, which were bright with passion and a growing love.

  He brushed a strand of Indigo’s hair from her eyes. “I think I’m falling in love with you, Indigo.” Cole’s voice was low and intimate as he bent down and gently kissed her cheek.

  Indigo’s hope rose like a winged butterfly, fragile yet buoyant. Her breath stilled and she pulled Cole close, her hands moving from his shoulders to the nape of his neck and up into his soft hair. “I hope so,” she whispered as she reached up and kissed Cole’s mouth. The sweetness of his lips was still brand new but growing familiar, and she cherished all of it. Pulling away slightly, she whispered gently in his ear, her voice trembling. “Because I think I’m falling in love with you, too.”

  With those few simple words, new liberation rushed through her. This confession of truth had the power to change everything, and Indigo opened herself to all its goodness. She opened herself up to Cole.

  Chapter Twenty-One

  Late March sunshine filtered through the windows of Indigo’s living room as she gave Alyssa’s wedding dress a final critical look. Alyssa stood on the pedestal. The hem fell perfectly, and the hat and veil were finished to both Alyssa’s and Indigo’s happiness.

  Alyssa fingered the veil that fell from the hat made by Agnes at La Chapeau. The white headdress was tight fitting, held in place by clips that fastened in Alyssa’s hair. A small piece of white sheer tulle covered her eyes, while a long white veil made of chiffon trailed over her shoulders and down her back. Pearl beads and white sequins rounded out the look, adding flair to Alyssa’s simple ensemble. When Alyssa placed it on her head, tendrils of her hair spilled around her face, giving her a look of sophisticated innocence. “I like this better tha
n what I had first picked out. It’s so pretty with the way it fits and then trails down the back. You and Agnes did a wonderful job.”

  Indigo glowed under Alyssa’s praise. “Thanks. It was Agnes’s design. I just added the veil. It’s lovely on you.” Her thoughts didn’t stay with Alyssa. Instead, they wandered to Cole. Ever since their trip to Florida three weeks prior and their declaration of exclusivity and love, everything warmed her. Almost everyone celebrated their new status as a couple, except Pamela, who grew stony and cold when she saw Indigo and Cole sitting together during rehearsal, fingers entwined. But Pamela’s reaction didn’t bother her as much as Kelsey’s, who’d been surprisingly reticent about the news when she’d come home from Florida. In the three weeks since Indigo and Cole had been dating, things had become tense between Indigo and her best friend.

  Alyssa broke Indigo’s thoughts. “Mom tells me that you and Mr. Demetrius are a couple. I’m so happy for you both.” Alyssa did a little dance on the pedestal. “The minute I met you, I knew you and Mr. Demetrius would end up together. Since I’ve been right about that, I think I should start a matchmaking business. Wouldn’t you agree?”

  Indigo laughed. “I’m glad you sent good vibes our way, but I’m not much of a believer in matchmakers.”

  “Awww, c’mon. You could be my partner, since we’ve both made excellent matches for ourselves.”

  Indigo laughed again. “You’re getting ahead of yourself as far as me and Cole are concerned.”

  “Oh, I don’t think so. Something tells me I’ll be attending your wedding not too long after you attend mine.”