All Our Tomorrows by Irene Hannon

Author:Irene Hannon [Hannon, Irene]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781488098208
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2006-12-15T00:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER EIGHT

“That was a very generous offer you made to Jared.”

As David merged into the traffic on the highway and headed west, he risked a quick glance at Caroline. “I want him to succeed. That seemed like the only way to make it happen.”

“Most people wouldn’t make such a personal investment.”

A rueful look settled over his face. “Nor does the board encourage it. This whole business with Jared has been risky from day one.”

“Yet you’re willing to take a chance on him.”

“Yeah. And for a guy who’s been risk-averse most of his life, it’s a bit unsettling. But I think Jared has a lot to offer, and I’d hate to see his talent go to waste. I assume that’s why you’re taking a chance on him, too.”

When she didn’t respond, David sent her an inquisitive look. She was staring out the front window, her face troubled. “What’s wrong?”

At his comment, she turned toward him. “I wish my motivations were that selfless. He is a very gifted writer and photographer, and I’d like to help him find his calling. But I also keep thinking about Michael, how a mentor helped him get his act together and develop his talent. And how Michael always wanted to pay back that kindness by doing the same for another young person. I guess, in a way, I feel like I need to do this for Michael, as a final tribute. And as an atonement for the part I played in his death.”

Her voice choked on the last word, and without stopping to think, David removed one hand from the wheel and reached over to touch her cheek. She turned to him in surprise, and he found his hand cupping her chin, her skin smooth and silky against his fingers.

Clearing his throat, he retrieved his hand and transferred it to the wheel, curling his fingers around it in a tight, steadying grip. “I feel the same way,” he admitted, his voice a bit rough around the edges. “I guess neither of us has purely altruistic motives.”

After that unexpected touch, it took her a second to refocus. “I—I suppose the important thing is that good may come out of it. And I think Michael would be pleased, don’t you?”

“Yeah, I do. Jared’s exactly the kind of kid he would have chosen to help if he’d had the opportunity.”

“Do you think his grandmother will have any luck with her sister?”

“Hard to say, since we don’t know what prompted the falling-out.” He consulted his watch. “Listen, I don’t know about you, but I’m starving. I just grabbed a doughnut this morning at the meeting. Can I interest you in some lunch?”

The man was full of surprises today, Caroline thought, taken aback by the suggestion. She turned to him, noting the strong chin, the firm lips, the well-shaped nose revealed in profile. Sometimes it was hard to believe that he and Michael were brothers. There was little physical resemblance. And their personalities were just as different. Michael had crackled with energy, infusing those he met with excitement and enthusiasm.

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