Read Online You Only (Cameron Farms Book 1) by Melanie Jayne - Free Book Online

accountants, I think they will be the last to loosen their dress codes. Believe me, I hope to never wear another navy suit.” She giggled.
    “Did you burn them or just leave them in Florida?” The relaxed side of Hale was easy to tease and more than a little sexy.
    “I donated all but one. In a few weeks, I have to go back and prepare a case for court. The firm asked specifically that I be available and I agreed before I left. So I get to play professional one more time.” She let out a rueful sigh.
    “I was impressed with your questions at the meeting.” He meant it as a compliment. Hale had taken his advice and attended the June Council Meeting. She’d sat with Moe in the third row. He couldn’t have missed her; she’d worn a red cardigan sweater that only hinted at her cleavage and a white skirt that stopped just above her knees. When the meeting concluded, he’d introduced her to the members. Hale had clearly done her homework, it was obvious from the few questions and comments that she’d shared.
    That woman was composed and well spoken. She was charming to those who were friendly and business-like with acquaintances. Joe would have been proud of his daughter.
    “I tried to keep up with the news, Dad and others kept me in the loop. I appreciate that you brought the council meetings to my attention, but Finn, I have never for a moment forgotten about this town and what it means to me and my family, or my responsibilities here.”
    There was steel behind her words; he caught the implication. She knew her duty and if she forgot, she had her team to remind her. “It was good to see you there. If you need anything from me, feel free to call my office.” He tried to smile with sincerity.
    “Of course, thank you.” She glanced away, her response in an off-handed manner indicating she was done talking.
    He hated that the mood had changed between them. “The cocktail party tonight should be loads of fun.” He wanted to warn her, but he didn’t want her upset.
    “I was invited, but I don’t think I’ll go. I dropped off a check with Bitsy. She mentioned that “if I wasn’t up to socializing, that I needn’t come.” I took that to mean that I was invited but not really welcome.” She frowned.
    “You are always welcome,” Finn insisted.
    Their eyes met for a moment. So many emotions registered on her face—pain, hope, and resolve. He didn’t like the idea of people being rude to her. She deserved a fair chance to carve out her place in the community.
    “Thanks, but in some places, I’m not welcome.” She shrugged. “I think after Miller’s full day at the parade, I’ll take him home and hang out. I might be able to see the fireworks from the porch. I heard that it’s supposed to be clear tonight.”
    It surprised him how much he hated the idea of Hale spending the evening alone. Giving it no thought, he spoke. “Meet me at the party. I’ll walk in with you and that way the bitches won’t be able to say a word.”
    Her voice was slightly above a whisper. “Finn, that’s very kind, but I need to handle this on my own. You being with me would cause too much talk. But thank you, it’s a very kind offer.”
    Suddenly, he was mad at himself and his town for hanging onto the past. He liked her, especially when the memories from past didn’t interfere. So far, everything he had seen and heard about Hale painted a picture of a caring and kind woman. Jesus, he was as bad as those asses who were giving her a hard time . Leave it to Hale to turn his world upside down once again.
    “I know that many of us would like for you to come tonight. It’d be good to catch up with old friends. Please think about it and try to come.” He made a mental note to talk to the Bentons today to make sure they would offer to meet Hale at the door. The three of them could help shield Hale from any rudeness that might be directed at her.
    “I’ll see how tired Miller and I are. How’s that?” Her smile lit up her