Anyone But a Fortune by Judy Duarte

Author:Judy Duarte
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2021-11-15T20:56:14+00:00

* * *

For a while, Beau had worried that tonight’s dinner party would be a complete failure. First, the rain had hit before he expected. And then a new waitress at Provisions had messed up his order. Then, to top it off, Sofia had arrived with a burr under her saddle.

But she’d agreed to put that kiss behind them, so things were better now.

As a result, they’d eaten their fill of grilled tri-tip, twice-baked potatoes, Caesar salad and the creamed corn he hadn’t ordered. The conversation had flowed naturally, and as usual, Draper was the life of the party.

Truth be told, Dan and Sofia’s mom had remained pretty quiet, but he’d spotted a few exchanged glances and timid smiles.

Even the dogs had quieted down, and now they were each enjoying a couple of rawhide chews Dan had given them.

“You sure are a good cook,” Sofia’s grandmother said.

“Coming from you, that’s a real compliment.” But Beau had never been one to accept false credit. “I’d like to say thank you, Maria, but Dan seasoned and grilled the meat. My only job was picking up the side dishes at Provisions. I’m afraid my sister Belle is the cook in our family.”

“That reminds me,” Draper said. “Belle called me while I was at the club with Ray Jennings. She and Jack would like to have us over for dinner at his house next week. She’s making jambalaya.”

“I’ll be there,” Beau said. “I’d never turn down Grandma’s jambalaya recipe.” Beau turned to his guests and explained. “Jack Radcliffe runs the Pets2Vets program. He also works for Fortune Brothers Construction and rents a ranch house from Callum Fortune, his boss. Belle helped with the design/décor of the place, and now she and Jack are dating.”

“I’ve been out to Jack’s place,” Dan said, “and I met his dog, Sarge. Jack’s the one who talked me into adopting M.P.”

Beau shot a glance at the rambunctious pup, who was chewing away on the rawhide bone.

“Jack’s doing a good thing,” Dan added. “Matching up veterans, some of them wounded and struggling, with dogs needing a home.”

“I don’t even know the man,” Camila said, “but I couldn’t agree more. He’s doing a wonderful thing for the dogs and veterans in our community.”

“Don’t leave out Beau and Sofia,” Maria added. “Their efforts are helping the teenagers in town.”

Beau glanced at Sofia. It appeared that way. They’d certainly joined forces at Rambling Rose High School. He just hoped their tenuous bond would last past the competition.

The conversation continued until after they enjoyed the cherry pie that had inadvertently replaced the cheesecake Beau had ordered.

“Well,” Sofia said, as she pushed aside the dessert plate that had once held a sliver of pie, “it’s been a lovely evening. Thank you for inviting us.”

Camila nodded. “The food was delicious—no matter whose hands prepared it.”

Maria readily agreed. “We’re having a game night next Saturday at our place.”

Both Sofia and Camila shot her a surprised look, one that said “We are? Since when?”

“I hope you’ll all attend. It’ll be lots of fun.

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