French Kiss (Silver Cove Series Book 2) (6 page)

On his way back to his room, he stopped by and, seeing the light under her door, he knocked.

When she opened the door, he felt his mouth water. Her hair was piled on top of her head in a messy bun, and several strands had fallen loose around her face. She was wearing a pair of gray sweat shorts and an old Boston University T-shirt that looked like it had spent too much time in the wash.

“Hey,” she said, leaning against her door. “How’d dinner go?”

“Fine.” His eyes roamed behind her, surprised that she still had plenty of unpacking to do.

“Need some help?” He nodded towards a large pile of clothes that currently took up her entire bed.

“No, I…” She glanced around, then blew a wisp of hair out of her eyes. “Yes,” she groaned. “Tons of it.” Her shoulders sagged. She stood aside and he walked in. “Heather has the wine social this evening and I’m desperate,” she explained.

“It doesn’t seem that hard to me, you just take those empty hangers there and…” He walked over as she shut her door and leaned against it, then he picked up a black hanger, slid a dress over, and held it up. “
Voilà
.”

She glared at him. “It’s not that simple.”

“No?” He walked over and hung the dress up in her almost empty closet.

“No.” She followed him and took the dress down. “First, I have to decide if it fits. Then I have to decide if it fits me.”

“Aren’t those the same thing?”

She chuckled. “For a Frenchman, you sure know nothing about fashion.”

“It seems easy enough. Try it on, if it fits, hang it up.” He crossed his arms over his chest. She looked down at the dress in question and frowned.

“I was about to try this one on.” Her eyes moved up to his. He held in a smile and only raised his eyebrows up slightly.

“Well…”

She tilted her head. “There is no way I’m going to change with you in the room.”

“So, change in the bathroom.”

She glanced towards the bathroom door, then back at him. “It would be nice to have a second opinion. I’m so terrible at this. Usually I take Sarah or Heather with me.” She bit her bottom lip.

“So, use me instead.” He walked over to the oversized chair in the corner of her room and sat down. “Go ahead. I’ve nothing better to do.”

She walked over to the bed and picked up a handful of clothes. “But I want your honest opinions.”

“But of course.” He added the thick French accent to the statement.

She hesitated just outside the bathroom door, then walked over to the closet where she’d hung a dozen other items and grabbed those too. “I never go shopping without Sarah,” she growled and disappeared into the bathroom.

Less than two minutes later, she walked out and he felt his mouth water again.

“You’re not saying anything.” She frowned and glanced down at the dress. “I thought I really liked—”

Before his mind could catch up with his body, he was across the room and had her in his arms. His mouth covered hers, quickly ending her sentence.

He felt her tense body melt against his as his tongue played over her lips. “Keep the dress,” he said softly when he moved away.

“Well, if it gets this kind of response, I think it should be kept under lock and key,” she joked as his hands ran up and down her sides.

“You should wear this one evening and I’ll take you to dinner on the mainland.”

He felt her tense and lean back. “Was that an offer to go out on a date?”

He shrugged. “It is if the answer is yes.”

Her eyes roamed over his face and she bit her bottom lip again, making him wish he could lean closer and take over for her at the task.

“Maybe when Sarah and Ben get back.” She took a step back. “Until then I’m way too busy.” She sighed and turned back to the bathroom and a low growl released from his chest.

She stopped and turned around, then smiled. “I like the back too.”

As she walked into the bathroom, he stared at her bare back and knew the rest of the evening was going to be pure torture on his libido.

T
he next day was too busy for Lilith to remember. Guests left and a whole new group arrived. The party of almost fifty would occupy the entire island all weekend. The fact that it was one of the most prestigious families in the States didn’t faze her or any of the employees at East Haven. What did faze them was the fact that they were known to be one of the most demanding.

Before the private yachts started arriving, Lilith met with all of the employees to run over a few items. Of course, she had started in the kitchen. Adam leaned against the wall and acted like he was annoyed at her talking to his crew. But she pushed through her planned speech anyway and was halfway through before she felt her body relax.

“Remember the old adage, the customer is always right. With the Robinsons, we’re going to take that statement one step further. There should never be a need for a customer to have to make a request. Meaning…” She glanced around the kitchen and noticed everyone was listening. “Eyes and ears should be open. If you see a glass half full, fill it before someone has to glance around to hunt you down. If you hear someone complain about something, make it right. If you can’t do so, page me immediately.” She noticed a few people glancing towards one server in particular. “If you need to step out for a smoke break, make sure someone else will be watching your tables.”

She waited a moment, then turned away from the wait staff. “I trust Adam will make sure everything leaving the kitchen is perfect.” She glanced over at him and thought she saw the side of his lips curve upward, but as soon as it happened, it was gone. “That is all.” She turned to go and made it just outside the door before Adam caught up with her.

“Pretty motivating speech.” He fell into step beside her as she made her way through the dining hall.

“Thanks.”

“So…” He took her arm to stop her before she ascended the large staircase that split the building in half. It was one of the most charming parts of the resort. The intricate wood railing dated back centuries. Its dark runner had recently been replaced, giving the stairs a fresh look. “I was thinking about next Tuesday night.”

Her eyebrows rose in question.

“For our date.” His fingers brushed over her bare arm, causing her entire body to respond.

“Date?” She blinked as her mind went blank. His eyes pierced her, and she remembered the kiss the night before. When her knees started to buckle, she reached out and took hold of the oak banister to steady herself.

“Sure.” He lowered his voice and moved closer. “I figured you could wear that dress”—his eyes flickered down her body— “and we could get to know one another.”

She giggled. She couldn’t help it. “Is that the best line you have?” She took a step back, needing the air and a moment to compose herself.

His smile was quick. “I have plenty more.” He relaxed against the railing. “How about after the dinner rush, we head out?”

She nodded, still smiling, and then turned and started making her way up the stairs. “Oh, and Adam?” She stopped and glanced over her shoulder. “Make sure everything coming out of the kitchen is perfect this weekend.” There, she saw the old temper flare in his eyes and smiled even bigger as she made her way towards Sarah’s office to meet with the rest of the staff.

Two hours after the entire Robinson clan arrived, her head was splitting and she was wondering how she and the staff were going to make it through the rest of the weekend.

Sarah had called her twice already and even though she knew her friend only meant to help, she quickly switched off her phone so she wouldn’t be distracted again.

Her radio pipped in her ear so much she had to turn it down. For the next few hours, she handled every complaint. Beds were too hard, pillows too soft, rooms didn’t have the best view and had to be switched, luggage had been scuffed. And all this before most of the guests had even been checked in. She knew that it truly was going to be the weekend from hell.

Just before dinner, she ran into a group of men standing on the balcony smoking. There were several signs posted, leading the smokers away from the main building, but the group was clearly ignoring them. Deciding quickly how to best handle the situation, she walked over to the group.

“Beautiful evening isn’t it?” She leaned against the railing.

“It’s okay,” two of the men replied.

A tall blond man quickly flicked his cigarette out into the yard and she felt her back teeth clench as she made a mental note to pick up the butt. “Your name is Lilith?” he said as he leaned next to her and ran a finger over her nametag.

“Yes, I’m the general manager in charge. I hope you’re finding everything here at East Haven to your pleasing.”

The blond leaned closer. “I’m Tristen Robinson.”

The name was familiar, as was the face. But she didn’t let that affect her. The fact that he was one of the most eligible bachelors in New York meant little to her.

“Yes, it’s my job to know everyone here.” She smiled and decided to quickly get them to move towards the designated smoking area. “Have you discovered the pavilion yet? It’s our designated smoking area and the view of the ocean is spectacular from there.”

“No.” His hand reached out to brush her arm. She straightened. “I would be willing to show you gentlemen the area.” She waited.

“We were done anyway.” The other two flicked their cigarettes into the yard and she tried not to show her anger. Then they turned and left her alone with Tristen.

Instantly, she was rethinking her tactics and took a step back.

“So…” He leaned closer to her once more. “Why don’t you show me that spot.” His fingers trailed up her arm, causing her to shiver.

“I’d be happy to, but I just remembered—” She stopped when he laughed.

“Afraid to be left alone with me?” he teased, causing her chin to rise.

“Of course not, Mr. Robinson.”

This time his laughter sounded sincerer. “Tristen. No one, and I do mean no one, calls me Mr. Robinson.”

She nodded quickly. “I’m not afraid. We are coming up on dinner and I have things to see to.” She took a step back and he frowned as his hand dropped away from her bare skin. “If you would, please make sure you find your way towards the pavilion for your next smoke break.” She motioned. “There are signs leading you down the pathway.”

He smiled as he leaned back against the railing. “You’re a stickler for rules, aren’t you?”

“It’s my job.” She started to move away.

“How long have you been at it?” he broke in, stopping her from walking away. Another rule of the trade, never leave a guest who has questions.

“I’ve worked at East Haven for over nine years.”

He whistled. “That’s a long time. What’d you do? Start when you were fifteen?”

“Sixteen,” she supplied.

He whistled again, then straightened and moved towards her. “I’d like to hear more—”

Her radio chimed in her ear and she reached over to turn it down.

“Maybe later,” he added and stepped back as a couple more people walked out onto the porch and lit up. “Smoking area’s down there,” he added, pointing to the pathway.

She hid a smile as she turned away and made a quick retreat.

She had a few errands to run outside before heading into the main dining hall. She swung by the pool area and made sure everything was in order for the pool party later that evening.

Then she walked by the pavilion and was surprised to see Tristen and the group of guys he’d been talking to earlier out there relaxing and enjoying their cigarettes.

Turning away before they noticed her, she headed back to the main building. She was walking along the well-lit pathway when she saw the embers of a cigarette and walked off the pathway.

“Nate?” she said, getting the kids attention.

He turned and threw the cigarette out into the trees.

“Hey.” He smiled at her and moved closer. “I heard you talking to those guys earlier.” He nodded towards the pavilion.

She glanced, then turned back to him. “You know you’re not supposed to smoke out here,” she started.

“Oh, it’s no big deal. I was just finishing up a few things.” His hand came up to her arm. “Why don’t you take a walk with me? I was just heading to the beach to take a dip.” He winked.

“No thank you.” She glanced down at her arm and moved away. “I have to get things ready for dinner.”

He stepped in front of her, stopping her from walking back onto the pathway.

“Are you sure?” His hand came up and took her arm again. “I’m sure we could have fun together.”

Her chin rose. “Nate, I’d hate to mention this conversation to your grandfather after all he’s done for you, getting you this job.”

She saw anger flood the younger man’s eyes, but he took a step back. “The old man is pissing me off. Always making me work.”

“That is what I pay you for.” She stepped aside easily and left him alone then headed into the main building.

Dinner was chaotic, but the worst moment was when she had to talk Adam down after one of the group complained that his pumpkin ravioli with sage butter was dry. She’d seen the man storm into the dining hall and berate a customer for less before, but this time, one of his staff had tipped her off and she’d stopped him before he could enter the dining room.

“Where are you going?” She put her hands against his chest, stopping him. His face was skewed into a frown.

“I’m going to have a talk with someone.”

“No, you’re not.” She felt his muscles under her hands flex and desperately wished to explore the feeling more.

“Pourquoi?” He crossed his arms over his chest and she almost groaned at the feeling of him under her fingers.

“You’re needed in the kitchens.”

“This…”—she saw him take a deep breath— “naïf vache thinks that my…”

“Yes.” She dropped her hands and crossed her arms over her chest. “I heard. Now, let me handle this. Why don’t you—”

“No.” He moved closer, his face inches from hers, his eyes boring into her. “This is my kitchen, my food. If some ignorant cow has something bad to say…”

“It should be handled by the manager.” She stood her ground. “If you don’t like how I deal with it, then I suggest you take it up with Sarah once she returns.” She waited and watched him sway back slightly. Just then there was a loud noise from the kitchen. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m needing in the dining room and, from the sounds of it, you’re needed back in the kitchen.”

He glanced back and she thought she heard him curse in French under his breath as he disappeared back through the doors.

Smiling, she walked into the dining room only to discover that the complaint had come from the table where Tristen sat.

She took a few deep breaths before walking over to his table. There was an older couple sitting with him, along with two women, one of which was hanging on Tristen’s arm like she never wanted to let go. The woman looked like she’d stepped directly off a billboard ad. Her long dark locks hung in perfect ringlets over her shoulders.

“Good evening. I hope everything is to your satisfaction.” She glanced around the table.

“Yes,” the older man said. “We were just talking about how wonderful the meal is.” Her eyes moved to Tristen as he set his fork down. His entire plate was cleaned.

“Not me,” the woman sitting next to him said. “My food was dry.” The woman pushed her barely touched food aside. “I’ve never tasted something as dry as this. Did the chef dump sand in it?” She pouted. Her hand never left Tristen’s arm.

“I apologize. Is there anything else you might prefer?”

“Yes, a new chef,” the woman joked, causing several at the table to chuckle.

“I assure you, you are in the best hands. Chef Carriveau is one of the best in Maine. I’d be happy to bring something else for you to try.”

The woman twisted her lips and leaned forward. “If I say I want a new chef, then I’m sure—”

“Don’t be a bitch, Kaleen. Why don’t you just get the filet mignon. Mine was cooked to perfection,” Tristen added. Her eyes moved over to his and he winked at her, causing her to smile.

“Well, if you think it’s okay, Trist.” She sighed and nodded to Lilith. “I suppose I’ll try it.”

“I’ll see to it myself.” She left the table and went back into the kitchen, where Adam was standing between two of his staff members who looked like they had just punched each other.

“What is going on?” She felt her headache triple.

“I’m handling this,” Adam growled as he pushed Kenny back a step. “Go, take a walk.” He pointed to the door and the man glanced in her direction, then stormed off towards the back door. “Now, do you think you could manage to clean up this mess?” Adam said to Evan, who nodded and went to get a broom to clean up the shattered plates.

She waited until Adam turned to her and relayed the new order, then stood back and watched the kitchen staff work their magic. To her, it was a dance the way they moved around each other, working on their own little tasks, but coming together as one in the end.

By the time the new plate was ready, her headache was pretty much gone. It could have something to do with the fact that Adam had set a plate of sweet potato fries in front of her and she’d munched on them while waiting. Or the fact that just focusing on another person’s task had calmed her down.