Read Marrying Cade for Free Online Page B

his.
    Cade’s mouth dried. It was like being interviewed for a job, something he hadn’t experienced for years. Not since the days when he’d desperately needed one, after his father’s death when they’d lost their home and his family had to scrimp and save to get by.
    The old man’s voice was a strained whisper. “Do you remember Paradise Beach?”
    How could he forget? He’d spent every day of his holiday on the deserted white sands with Melo, Adam, and Rosa for company. Walking in the cool water, as brightly colored tiny fish darted around his ankles, like shimmering sunlight beneath the waves. The clear azure water flowed over soft white sand, and they’d eaten picnics in the shelter of the dunes. It was a private haven, a little piece of heaven. And even though the site was perfect for a hotel, something clenched in Cade’s chest at the thought of exploiting it.
    “I remember it, Marco,” Cade said, wanting to hear more of the old man’s plans.
    “I have decided to sell it. For a hotel.” Marco’s mouth thinned. “I thought perhaps you…”
    “It’s very beautiful…”
    “I have decided to sell immediately. If you’re not interested, I will have to sell to Felix Mezzuti. He’s shown interest in building on the island in the past.”
    Felix Mezzuti? Cade felt his eyes widen. He’d never met the infamous developer, but the man’s reputation as a ruthless businessman preceded him. He’d been involved in a development in Rome where he’d callously destroyed a lake in order to build a hotel that was much too big for the small community surrounding it. When business hadn’t been up to his expectations he’d closed it, leaving a damaged ecosystem in his wake. He couldn’t possibly be allowed to develop on Isola dei Fiori.
    “Mezzuti might not be the best choice,” Cade said. “He would build a large hotel, perhaps not in keeping with the needs of the island. And they are weakened as a company after their recent attempt to diversify into apartment buildings. I fear they would default on payment.”
    Marco paled and changed the subject abruptly. “But you, Cade. What would you build?”
    Cade thought for a moment, a picture coming to life in his mind.
    “The island is close to Italy. Guests can be ferried out to the island, or arrive by helicopter. The charms of the island will appeal only to an exclusive clientele. One with money.”
    The current hotel was primitive and basic. He’d gotten a good feel for it when he checked in. It was pleasant, sure. But it lacked the comforts of life the rich traveler would consider essential. Like air conditioning, twenty-four hour room service, and a fleet of drivers available round the clock to ferry guests wherever they wanted to go. All Cade’s hotels had Michelin starred restaurants.
    “I have concerns about Mezzuti,” Marco admitted, interweaving his hands on top of the blanket. “The island is unspoiled, traditional. My family has lived here for generations.” He gazed out at the sea as the sea breeze lifted his white hair, like ruffling the feathers of an eagle in flight. “And family should be the most important factor.”
    “I agree.”
    Making sure his family was secure drove every business decision Cade made. Money was the answer to everything. His mother and sisters would never need for anything ever again. Their security was his responsibility. He didn’t see them often, what with the pressures of business, but they emailed regularly, which in Cade’s mind was the best option.
    Marco’s gaze pinned Cade’s. “I must sell. If not to you, to Mezzuti. And soon after the wedding.”
    “Can you tell me why?” Cade asked.
    “Financial concerns.” Marco’s lips flattened into a thin line. “Family matters.” He turned away and swallowed a mouthful of lemonade, effectively ending the conversation.
    “And Adam?” His best friend was joining the business. Surely he needed to know about these financial concerns.
    “Adam is a good