The Dance He Had to Earn

Nathan Cole only meant to sit beside a woman who looked lonely at a wedding. He made her laugh, asked her to dance, and learned afterward that Victoria Bennett owned the hotel—and ran an entire hospitality group. Nathan is a widowed father who has spent twenty years building his woodworking shop. Victoria is used to people wanting something from her. For a few weeks, they find something easier with each other. Then a photograph of their dance spreads, and Nathan’s customers begin asking whether his work comes with a favor from the CEO. When a restoration project at Victoria’s company opens for bids, Nathan enters on his own terms. He wants the committee to judge the work his team can do. Victoria steps away from the decision, even though giving him that space may mean losing him. One dance brought them together. To find their way back, they will each have to decide what trust asks of them.