Harlequin Love Inspired March 2021--Box Set 2 of 2 Patrice Lewis (i read book txt) 📖

going back generations. It was a huge part of her history. She would give anything to be seated at her family’s large dining room table digging into a slice of the sweet baked good.

Connor nodded his head approvingly. “I’ve never had the pleasure, but I’ve heard of it. If you decide to make it, don’t forget to bring me a slice.”

Although a part of her enjoyed the lighthearted banter between them, Isabelle continually had to remind herself to maintain a distance from Connor. From the first day they’d met, Isabelle had felt an attraction between them. If things weren’t so messed up in her world, she wouldn’t hesitate to flirt with Connor, perhaps even go out on a date with him if he asked. But her conscience wouldn’t allow her to develop anything more than a friendship with him. It would be wrong to lead him on when she couldn’t tell him the truth about being in the Witness Protection Program.

Honestly, she might be getting way ahead of herself. For all she knew, Connor had a long-term girlfriend in town, although she’d seen no signs of it. She’d overheard her staff talking about Connor being a sought-after bachelor in Owl Creek. Perhaps she was misreading things between them. Maybe she was the only one who felt something simmering in the air between them.

“You can enjoy the full tour later on, but I think we should head to my grandmother’s office. I know she’s eager to see you,” Connor said, leading her toward a bank of elevators. When they reached the second floor, he led her down a hall of executive offices. They passed by one with Connor’s name engraved on a brass plaque, but Isabelle didn’t get an opportunity to get much of a glimpse of the interior. All she spotted was a tall bubble gum machine situated next to a sleek-looking desk. Connor slowed down when they reached a grand office a few doors down from his own. Located at the end of the corridor, Beulah’s office was bright and welcoming, much like the woman herself.

“Ella! It’s great to see you here,” Beulah said as she rose from her chair. She quickly made her way around her desk and reached for Isabelle’s hands, joining them together with her own.

For a second Isabelle felt startled by the greeting. She hadn’t yet gotten used to being called Ella. It was still a bit jarring. Seeing Beulah felt wonderful, though. The older woman had been so kind and supportive on her first day. With her oversize personality and stately air, she reminded Isabelle of her own mother. They both exuded an air of confidence mixed with benevolence.

“Thank you for the invitation, Beulah. From what I’ve seen so far, this place is amazing,” Isabelle gushed.

Beulah beamed at her praise. “I won’t disagree with you. Not even a little bit. One of my smartest decisions was marrying my husband, Jennings. Not only did I get a cherished life partner, but it brought the North Star Chocolate Company into my life. His family created it, but I couldn’t love it any more if I was born into it.”

Connor put his arm around his grandmother. “You were destined to be a part of it.”

Beulah beamed up at Connor. The interaction between them was heartwarming. She could feel the love flowing in the air.

“I would like to show you something, my dear.” She strode over to her desk and pointed at a framed picture hanging on the wall. “This photo was taken over one hundred years ago when the factory first opened.”

Isabelle’s eyes widened as she studied the black-and-white photograph. At the time the image was taken, the factory was a simple brick building no more than a few thousand square feet. “I can’t believe it’s the same place. What a difference a century makes,” Ella said.

“It might surprise you, but I wasn’t born yet,” Beulah said with a wink.

Connor and Isabelle joined in on the laughter. It was impressive to see such a distinguished businesswoman have the ability to laugh at herself. Connor was blessed to have her as his grandmother. Isabelle felt a burst of gratitude that she’d secured a position at Beulah’s company.

“I’d like to show you some behind-the-scenes areas of the factory. It’s a rite of passage for new employees,” Beulah said, gleefully rubbing her hands together. “I might even share some trade secrets.”

Connor leaned in toward Isabelle, speaking in a loud whisper as he said, “But then she’d have to make you disappear.”

Connor’s close proximity caused her pulse to quicken. A rich, woodsy scent hovered around him. Although Isabelle had met men like Connor before, she’d never met anyone who appeared to be the whole package. His dark hair and blue eyes combined with chiseled features and a rugged build made him one of the most attractive men she’d ever seen. He was smart and confident, with a loving family by his side. And judging by the lack of a wedding ring and local chatter, he was still single.

Beulah swatted her grandson. “I’d do no such thing. Follow me, Ella. There’s plenty of intriguing aspects of this operation.”

Isabelle nodded and walked over to Beulah. The CEO was a font of information and she couldn’t wait to hear more from the older woman about the craft of making chocolate. She would be the perfect tour guide.

“I’m going to head back to my office and make a few phone calls,” Connor said, glancing at his watch. “I’ll see both of you in a little bit.”

Isabelle felt a stab of disappointment. She loved Connor’s whimsical side and the factory seemed to bring it out in him. She couldn’t deny that Connor was quickly becoming a distraction. He tempted her to think of quiet nights by the fire and snowy walks on the town green.

What was it about Connor that brought out this side of her? She’d already decided to steer clear of any romantic entanglements in Owl Creek, knowing it would only serve to complicate