Winter's Magic (Music City Hearts Series) Read Free

recall ever meeting her.” He would have remembered .
    “You were probably in third grade the last time you saw her. She couldn’t have been more than two or three.” His grandfather sighed and rubbed his eyes. “I see Jayne and her husband a couple times a year. But it’s hard for me, as I’m sure it is for her, too. Every time I see Jayne, I think of your mother. Then I think of the car accident and . . .” He shook his head and straightened in his chair. “Enough of that. How are you coming on the Jeremiah bid?”
    Nick wanted to hear more. But could tell from the smile on his grandfather’s face, the one meant to hide the sadness still lingering in his eyes, he wanted to move on.
    “We’re almost finished. I just want to get your advice on a couple of budget items before we submit the building proposal next week.” He skimmed the printout for the details he wanted to discuss.
    “I’ve been researching their solidity,” his grandfather said. “They’ve been extremely successful in the northeast. Building eight new department stores, especially in new markets, is a big step for them. And you. A win here could really put your firm on the map.”
    At the sound of his grandfather’s clearing throat, Nick raised his eyes.
    “I’m very proud of you, son. You’ve built your own company through old-fashioned sweat, but everyone needs backing at some point. You know I’m always here if you need advice or anything else.”
    Nick knew anything else meant money. As much as he loved his grandfather, he hated asking for advice because it always came with a financial offer. Except, he didn’t want the Chester name or wealth to pave an easy road.
    Sure, there had been several lean years, where the building projects were small and profits barely paid his apartment rent. He’d been patient as the business steadily grew. His company now stood ready for their largest construction proposal to date.
    “I know,” Nick said. “And I really appreciate the offer, but I think we’re covered on this one.”
    “All right. I won’t press. Whether you want help now or later, this is all going to be yours someday, anyway.” His grandfather chuckled as he waved a hand through the air.
    “Let’s review the proposal.” Nick changed the subject as soon as he could. He would eventually have to face the reality, but he didn’t want to think about someday anytime soon. His grandfather had raised him since the age of eight, after losing both parents. He didn’t want the fortune now, and he didn’t want it sometime in the future, if it meant he had to lose the old man, too.
    Two hours later, Nick arrived at Lauren’s family estate in his grandfather’s black stretch limousine. As soon as they were in the car and on their way to the country club, he presented her with the gift.
    “What’s this?” she asked.
    “Your present.”
    Lauren squealed and tried to snatch the gold box from his hands. “Oh! Give me, give me.”
    Nick let go, but instead of opening the package, she placed it on the seat.
    “Did you see my new diamond necklace? Daddy gave it to me this morning. Mother gave me the matching earrings this afternoon.” Lauren lifted her hair back on both sides of her ears so he could see the generous stones. The necklace, also impressive, displayed three carat-size baguettes on either side of a substantial princess-cut solitaire.
    “They’re striking,” he said. “They’re wonderful with your new dress. You look beautiful tonight.”
    “Of course.” She waved her hand dismissively and then beamed at him with a bubbly giggle. “And tomorrow, I’m test driving a new Mercedes.”
    That got his attention. “You just bought a coupe convertible a few months ago.”
    “I know. But there isn’t enough room in the trunk when I go shopping. My coupe is just a fun car. I need something more substantial when I’m out with my friends. Mother said not to worry, she’ll talk Daddy into buying it for me by the time we