eyes? It was clear to her he was simply testing her, or attempting to get a rise from her. “I’m just a woman, but I have my dreams. I’m sure I’ll make them happen someday, as long as I get permission from my man.” She delivered the words sweetly, with a healthy dose of saccharin underneath.
Harold regarded her for a moment before he chuckled. “I can see what he likes about you, Nadia. I was just kidding with all that nonsense. You look like a determined person, the type to keep my reprobate grandson on-track. I have no doubt we’ll know you as the world’s champion in no time.”
“Because the winner of America’s Cup is certainly a household name,” said Nadia with a dash of self-deprecation. It certainly was in some circles, especially social circles like these, but she’d never be on the front of “Sports Illustrated” for racing in the America’s Cup, even if she won. Fortunately, that wasn’t her dream. All she wanted to do was win and make her father proud, though he had been gone all these years.
The older man turned his sharp gaze on his grandson. “And what about you, Sawyer? Are you ready to take on more responsibility and settle down now that you’ve got a good woman at your side?”
Nadia felt a little mean for enjoying the way Sawyer squirmed at her side, and she hid her amusement in the glass of the white wine. She didn’t know the vintage or the type, but it was pleasantly fruity with a dry taste she enjoyed.
He cleared his throat. “That’s between us, Grandfather.”
Harold scowled, and this time it was clear all amusement had fled. “You’re almost thirty years old, and it’s time to take some responsibility, to step up—”
“Dad,” said Caitlin with a hint of warning. “You promised.”
After issuing an audible harrumph, the old man fell silent and returned to eating his meal. Caitlin smoothed over the moment of conflict, and they were soon in easy conversation again.
As the meal drew to a close, with Kiersten bringing in dishes of chocolate mousse for everyone, Nadia was surprised to learn his mother and sister had plans for her. “I’m not sure—” she started to say.
They wanted to take her to the spa tomorrow for a day of bonding. While she had originally planned to spend some time doing all the girly things, including a hair treatment, she wasn’t certain if she was ready to venture out with his mother and sister without Sawyer nearby. What if she said something he didn’t want her to say? Perhaps she could discuss that with him after dinner, when they were back in his room.
That made her stomach dip again as she realized it was another problem they had to sort out tonight. Who was going to sleep where? Since she was technically his employee, there was no question she wouldn’t be taking the bed, but didn’t recall seeing much more furniture than the loveseat. Apparently, she was in for a week of poor sleep.
“Oh come, please. You see Sawyer all the time, so surely you can appreciate the time away from him?” asked Kiersten with a grin in her brother’s direction.
“Yes, of course.” As she entered the teasing, Nadia was surprised to realize she wasn’t looking forward to separating herself Sawyer tomorrow. It wasn’t strictly fear of saying the wrong thing or making a bad impression with his family. Her hormones were starting to crave his presence, and she had the nip that in the bud quickly.
With a firm nod, she confirmed her willingness to join them. “Sure, why not? It sounds like fun.” The cost would be no problem, thanks to her generous salary from Sawyer, coupled with the hefty payment he had deposited in her bank account. Knowing there was another one coming at the end of the week eased all money worries.
As though he’d read her mind, he said, “Remind me to give you my AmEx card in the morning.”
She frowned at him. “That won’t be necessary. I can pay for myself.”
A giggle from Kiersten reminded her they weren’t