Free The Billionaire's Longshot: Betting on You Series: Book Three by Jeannette Winters Page B

demonstration during the fundraiser had provided a lot of information on how the training takes place and what they look for in the dogs they rescue. It was nice to hear the buzz through the crowds yesterday. She heard so many saying what a wonderful time they had and how informative it was. Jill had been impressed by the presenter and didn’t think anyone could have done a better job. That was until KJ brought a much more personal look at the difference between a service dog and a therapy dog. Therapy dogs concentrate on emotional rather than physical needs . As she spoke Jill couldn’t help but notice Blossom leaned against KJ and placed her head on her lap. She wasn’t sure if it was special training or just a special bond, but it was evident to everyone that KJ’s expertise was not only based on facts, but personal experience.
    Jill had overheard Dominic say to Jake that he had never been a dog person. When he sat on the couch, Blossom walked over to him and put her head on his lap. For a moment he looked as if he might push her off him, but she gave him a prolonged sad, sweet look. Dominic frowned down at her, but she keep looking up at him quietly. He raised a hand and ran it gently over her head and if dogs could smile, Blossom did.
    Jake had snapped the picture on his phone and laughed, “I might need this later.”
    Ross had sat across the room from her most of the night, perhaps to not draw too much attention to them? It had been difficult, but she had resisted getting up and joining him, telling herself if he wanted to he could come to her. To her disappointment he didn’t. Doubt had tried to creep in, but then she reminded herself that the way he kissed her, he had to be interested.
    Yes, last night had been great. This morning she was tempted to ask someone to pinch her to make sure she wasn’t dreaming, but if she was, she didn’t want to wake. Smiling, she recalled Drew holding Blossom’s leash and walking KJ to her car. Yes, that worked out perfectly.
    Only Jon and Lizette remained at the guesthouse with her; they too would be leaving shortly. Ross had reminded her last night of their agreement for a short excursion on his boat. Why did I agree to that? She wasn’t ready for her bikini-on-a-boat fantasy to be fulfilled, no matter how sweet it was.
    “It would be much easier if I hopped a ride back with Jon and Lizette on their jet,” she offered, trying to weasel out.
    Ross hadn’t agreed as he told her earlier, “I will make sure you get home safe and sound after we enjoy ourselves on the boat.”
    She packed the few items she brought with her and decided to take one last walk in the vineyard before she and Ross also took off. It is so . . . peaceful. Jill had no idea why Ross wouldn’t want to be here all the time. If she lived here they would have to drag her inside.
    “Hiding?” Jefferson’s voice no longer startled her.
    “Not at all. I didn’t want to leave without one last look. It’s truly beautiful here,” Jill said softly, taking a deep breath, trying to savor every moment.
    “Having you here has been a pleasure. You better make sure my son brings you back soon.”
    Back? “Oh, Mr. Whit—ah, Jefferson—we are not, um . . . I mean . . . we’re not involved.” God, that sounded stupid. Who says that? And worse, to someone’s parent! Had he seen them kissing yesterday? Awkward.
    Smiling at her he said, “Things have a way of changing when we least expect them to.”
    That’s exactly what scares me. “Thank you again for hosting the party at your place. It was a huge success, and we raised one hundred twenty-five thousand dollars.”
    “That is excellent news. It appeared everyone had a great time.”
    “Not everyone. I was hoping to see your wife before I left so I could apologize again. She was so upset yesterday afternoon.” It really wasn’t anything she had done to make her angry, as it appeared that was just who she was. A bitter person.
    “Trust me,