Jenny (Beach Brides Book 5) Read online

  “We have a housekeeper to do that,” Jenny said.

  “She doesn’t come every day, and I want to bake cookies. There’s stuff I need in here.” Missy wore colorful paw-print leggings and an oversized T-shirt with Semper Fi written across the front. “We’re going to celebrate!”

  “What are we celebrating? Did another cat from the rescue get adopted?”

  “No, but your new bookmarks arrived. They’re gorgeous.” She pointed to a small cardboard box on the counter. “And while I was at the post office picking them up, I bumped into Josh Cooper. He’s been meaning to call you. Mentioned something about you two getting together.”

  “I…” Words failed Jenny.

  Josh had been her high school crush. Who was she kidding? He’d been every girl’s fantasy.

  Smart, athletic, hot.

  “What’s he doing in town?” she asked. “I thought he was a big-time sports announcer.”

  “He is. Football, I think, but he bought a house not too far from here. Said he needed a home base. Since he owns a plane, he can easily fly to the Portland airport if he can’t get to a game directly.”

  “A plane, huh? Moving home should be good for him.”

  “And you.” Missy pulled out a measuring cup and mixing bowl from the dishwasher. “You can finally go out with your dream guy.”

  “My dream guy when I was a teenager.” That was well over a decade ago. “Josh isn’t going to ask me on a date. He probably wants to have an old classmate stroke his ego.”

  “Or another appendage.” Missy grinned.

  Jenny shook her head.

  “What? He’s still attractive, and you had a thing for him once. That’s why I gave him your number. You need to get out more.”

  “I get out as much as you.”

  She shot Jenny a no-you-don’t look. “I have two jobs—one at the cupcake shop and one with you—and I volunteer at the cat rescue.”

  “I work from home.”

  “Exactly. Going out with Josh will be good for you.”

  “I get out to do book signings or writer workshops and events.”

  “Not enough, especially when those are work related. You’re thirty-one. Pretty and successful. You should be dating, partying, and having the time of your life.”

  “I’m happiest staying at home and writing. I can’t help it. I’m boring.”

  Missy tsked. “What am I going to do with you?”

  “Keep feeding me, sending my reader newsletter to fans, and staying on top of my social media.”

  “You know I will, but please say yes when Josh calls. He could be the one for you.”

  “He just wants to go out with Jenna Ford.”

  Guys hit on Jenna Ford a hundred times more than Jenny Hanford. The reason was money. Jenna Ford had bank.

  Been there, done that, gave back the ring two weeks before the wedding.

  Three years ago, she’d discovered her then-fiancé, Grant, had racked up six-figures worth of gambling debt. He’d claimed to have gone to rehab to help his addiction. She’d had no reason to doubt him, but friends had suggested she postpone the wedding to give Grant time to pay off the debt so she wouldn’t have to. It had sounded like a smart idea to Jenny. Except Grant hadn’t wanted to wait. He’d wanted to get married as they’d planned.

  Jenny was willing, but she decided to speak to her CPA and her attorney first. Both recommended she have Grant sign a prenuptial agreement so her assets would not be used to pay off his debt. Her lawyer had also added verbiage so that Grant gave up his rights to her intellectual properties, aka books.

  Grant wouldn’t sign it. During a tantrum worthy of a two-year-old, he’d claimed to have only proposed because she was Jenna Ford and rich. He’d said no man would ever be interested in Jenny Hanford.

  She’d thrown the engagement ring at him. Not her finest moment, but his words had decimated her self-confidence. She’d been devastated. Not because she canceled the wedding—that was just collateral damage—but from being viewed as an easy mark to be taken advantage of by a handsome, money-hungry charmer. She’d lost faith that decent men existed. Or if they did, in her ability to find them.

  “Josh didn’t mention Jenna.” The disapproval in Missy’s eyes stung. “He called you Jenny.”

  Jenny lifted her chin. “Don’t give me that look. Remember Grant?”

  “Grant was a taker. A total loser looking for a quick payout. Josh knew you before Jenna.”

  “And he’s never said a word to me. Not during high school. Or when we were in college and came home during the holidays.”

  Now he wanted to get together? Call her paranoid, but she hoped Josh didn’t call.

  ****

  Jenny: Hope you are doing well today.

  Dare: What’s wrong?

  Jenny: What do you mean?

  Dare: Something’s up.

  Jenny: Why do you think that?

  Dare: You always start out with something more off the wall.

  Jenny: You know me that well already?

  Dare: Am I wrong?

  Jenny: No.

  Dare: Spill.

  Jenny: I got asked out.

  Dare: By?

  Jenny: A guy I knew in high school. He moved back to town and wants to get together for coffee.

  Dare: Coffee sounds like a good first date.

  Jenny: Yes, but I don’t want to go.

  Dare: Why not?

  Jenny: The guy is allergic to cats. That’s a deal breaker for me.

  Dare: How many cats do you have?

  Jenny: None.

  Dare: Then why is it a deal breaker?

  Jenny: What if I want a cat (or a dog) in the future, but couldn’t get one due to someone else’s allergies? So, yes, a deal breaker. And why it was on my list.

  Dare: List?

  Jenny: Message-in-the-bottle list.

  Dare: Oh, yeah. But think about this for a minute. You’d really walk away from the hypothetically perfect guy for a cat (or dog) you may or may not even want in the future?

  Jenny: I never said he was perfect. But yes, because that’s not all.

  Dare: What?

  Jenny: He doesn’t believe in aliens or Bigfoot.

  Dare: You asked?

  Jenny: Sort of.

  Dare: Not much you can do about allergies, but differences can be overcome if you care enough.

  Jenny: Speaking from experience?

  Dare: Yes, though she liked my best friend better than me. Ended up with two exes by the time that was over.

  Jenny: Ouch. That had to hurt.

  Dare: Yep.

  Jenny: You’re better off without people like that in your life. Though, maybe the differences between you were more the deal-breaker kind.

  Dare: You may be right, but that shouldn’t stop you from saying yes to coffee.

  Jenny: You think so?

  Dare: Could be fun.

  Jenny: I guess.

  Dare: But you need to be careful. Drive yourself. A coffee house is a public place, so that’s good. Be sure to let a friend know your plans.

  Jenny: Big brother, uncle, or dad?

  Dare: Three sisters. Let me know what you decide.

  Two days later…

  Jenny: I said yes.

  Dare: And?

  Jenny: I didn’t think meeting for coffee could be so horrible. I was wrong.

  Dare: You okay?

  Jenny: Yes. I owe you a thank you.

  Dare: Why?

  Jenny: I followed your instructions. You saved me from things being much worse.

  Dare: What happened?

  Jenny: He’d been drinking before he arrived, called me the wrong name the entire time, put a picture of us on Instagram as if we were a couple, and then asked if I wanted to go to his place to have sex.

  Dare: What—are you joking?

  Jenny: I wish I were kidding. I have a feeling his drinking might be one of the reasons he’s moving back here. I hope he gets the help he needs, but lesson learned. I’m g
oing to stick to my list in the future.

  Dare: The guy’s a loser. The list rules from now on.

  Jenny: Yes!

  Dare: You might want to take a self-defense class. Just in case.

  Jenny: I might.

  Dare: Do and shake this off. You gave it a shot. That’s what matters. It’s not your fault the guy is a jerk and a drunk.

  Jenny: Thanks. Any hot dates for you?

  Dare: Not lately. Married to the job. Big trip coming up.

  Jenny: Work won’t seem as important when you meet the right person. At least, that’s what my friends tell me.

  Dare: These wouldn’t be the same friends who tossed bottles into the sea with you?

  Jenny: Yes, they would be. A few have even fallen in love and gotten married to the guys who found their bottles.

  Dare: Wow. That’s great.

  Jenny: Very happy for them.

  Dare: But poor you ended up with me.

  Jenny: Not poor me. I have a new friend.

  Dare: Hope this doesn’t sound weird, but I’m glad I found your bottle.

  Jenny: Not weird, and so am I.

  ****

  Gear packed and ready to go before sunrise, Dare sat on the floor with his back against the wall as rangers from his company gathered. He tried to shut out the conversations around him. He needed to write Jenny.

  Just thinking her name made him smile.

  They’d been texting almost every day, depending on what he had going on with the pre-deployment workup, and he wanted to tell her he was leaving on his “big trip.” Not a lie. A deployment was a big trip.

  He hadn’t known what else to tell her. They hadn’t shared much personal information. He had no idea what she did for a living, where in Washington she lived, or how old she was. His curiosity grew by the day, but there was no rush in finding out more about her. He hoped she was careful if she got asked out again and remembered what he’d told her.

  Dare typed an email. He had more to say than would work via text. He didn’t want Jenny to think he disappeared on her if he couldn’t get online.

  “Wheels up at zero six thirty, O’Rourke,” Hamilton barked. “Is your squad ready?”

  Dare’s guys had been ready three days ago. “Yes, Sergeant.”

  “Don’t you have something else to do?”

  “Just need to send an email first.”

  “To your girl? Jenny?”

  Dare nodded. He liked the idea of Jenny being his girl.

  A corner of Hamilton’s mouth lifted into a smirk. “Carry on, O’Rourke, but make it quick. I’m counting on you to ensure a smooth departure.”

  CHAPTER FOUR

  Out of Contact

  Dare

  To: Jenny <8675309@j…>

  Jenny,

  Remember how I mentioned a big trip with work? I’m leaving today. Not sure about cell coverage where we’re going. Spotty Wi-Fi for sure. I might not be able to respond for a while, but I’ll be in touch when I can. Until then, take Bigfoot repellent with you when you hike. Can’t have you trapped in his lair again. And be careful when you go out on dates. Please remember the precautions I told you.

  Take care,

  Dare

  ****

  Re: Out of Contact

  Jenny <8675309@…>

  To: Dare

  Dare,

  Thanks for letting me know. I hope your trip goes well. Safe travels! Repellent is in my purse. Might come in handy in other situations. No more dates planned, however. The message-in-the-bottle list is good at weeding people out. If someone does meet the requirements, I will be careful and remember your precautions. Promise!

  Thanks,

  Jenny

  ****

  Been a while

  Dare

  To: Jenny <8675309@…>

  Hey, Jenny,

  Sorry to be out of touch for so long. Okay, two weeks isn’t that long, but it feels like forever. It’s been crazy busy here. I had a free minute and an internet connection, so I wanted to say hi and that I was thinking about you.

  That’s probably weird when I know nothing about you except your first name and the state where you live, but I miss our texting. Can’t wait to get home so we can do that again. Unless, of course, you’re dating someone and he’s the jealous type. Totally would understand if that’s the case. If you were my girl, I wouldn’t want you texting some random dude. If you’re not with someone, I hope you haven’t had to use the repellent!

  As for life here, it’s not bad. Food sucks, and I’d love a burger, fries, and chocolate milkshake right now, but things could be worse. We’re getting the job done, and that’s what matters.

  Take care,

  Dare

  P.S. Dare is a nickname for Darragh. A family name. My great-grandfather. Don’t think I ever told you that.

  P.P.S. I was outside last night and looked up at the sky. It was a clear night and breathtaking. I thought of you and wondered if you had the same view. I know some parts of Washington get a lot of rain, but I hope it wasn’t cloudy where you live.

  ****

  Re: Been a while

  Jenny <8675309@…>

  To: Dare

  Hey, Dare,

  Great to hear from you. I know business trips can be insane so not surprised you’re busy.

  No burgers where you are? In your honor, I ate the meal you’ve been wanting, and it was delicious. Especially the shake, but how can you go wrong when chocolate is involved? The hamburger was grilled just right, slightly juicy but not too much pink (not a fan of rare), and the French fries were waffle-cut with seasoned salt. Yum!

  And not weird. I’ve been thinking about you, too, even though I only know your first name and that you live in Georgia. My real name is Jennifer, in case you hadn’t guessed, but Jenny fits me better, and is what everyone calls me.

  But this might be weird. I was so happy when I saw your email in my inbox today. It put a big smile on my face. Not that I was frowning or sad, just tired and a little overwhelmed with work.

  No dates, but that’s okay. I’ve had a lot to do, and my sister-in-law’s having a rougher time than usual. My brother died six years ago, and the anniversary of his death was last week. She’s stronger than she realizes, but they got married a week after high school graduation, and he was her world. I keep telling her there is no time frame for grief. I just wish there was something else I could say to make things better.

  She’s into animal rescue, and I help her sometimes. The other night, we were out until two in the morning with her rescue group trapping feral cats. They have a program where a vet will neuter or spay and give shots before the rescue releases the cats back where they were found.

  I so wish I could see your sky. I love stargazing, but even though it’s summer, the nights have been overcast. I’ll keep trying. The clouds can’t stay out forever.

  Well, I guess that’s all for now. Hope you’re managing to have some fun!

  Jenny

  P.S. Repellant remains unused. Very pleased about that.

  P.P.S. Any chance you’ve had time to date while on the road? I went on mine, so it’s your turn.

  ****

  Re: Re: Been a while

  Dare

  To: Jenny <8675309@…>

  Jenny,

  Great to hear from you! I figured your name was Jennifer. I like Jenny.

  Thanks for eating in my honor. I have another meal mission for you should you choose to accept it:

  Corn dog, tater tots, and soda (no diet, full-on sugar).

  Glad I could put a smile on your face. Your email did the same for me. Guess I was smiling more than usual because I got some ribbing from the guys I work with. I told them they’re jealous. I probably shouldn’t have said that. When I told them we’re just friends, no one believed me.

  I’m sorry about your brother. I’ve lost a few friends, and it sucks. Your sister-in-law is lucky to have someone like you.
Not sure it’ll help, but the wife of a good friend who died is now remarried with a baby on the way. She was in a dark place for a while, but then she realized her husband wouldn’t have wanted her to stop living (and she wouldn’t have wanted that if the situation had been reversed). She knows he would want her to live the life they’d planned and make their dreams come true. So that’s what she did. I didn’t want to like the guy she married, but I must admit, he’s good for her. Totally different from my friend, but that’s what she needed.

  Animal rescue in the dead of the night, huh? Good work and glad you were with a group, but be careful when you’re out late in the dark. Please don’t do that alone or with just your sister-in-law. Not to harp on this, but you really should take a self-defense class. Better safe than sorry.

  Sounds like you have enough going on not to be dating. That makes two of us.

  Have the clouds parted so you can see the starry night? I hope so, but if not, I’m watching the skies for both of us. I took a few pictures I’ll share when I’m home. Sorry, no UFOs that I could see, but I keep looking for them. There’s a particularly bright star (had to make sure it wasn’t a planet) that I call Jenny after you. So beautiful. I’ll try to figure out the real name and location so you can look for it.

  Not much else is going on. Ready to go home, but not sure when that will be. More work to do.

  Be safe,

  Dare

  ****

  Mission Accomplished

  Jenny <8675309@…>

  To: Dare

  Sorry for your friends’ ribbing, but let them believe what they want. We know the truth! BFFs! And in case that’s a new acronym for you, it stands for Bottle Friends Forever!