Free Blind Trust by Sandra Orchard Page B

of files. “At the rate I’m forgetting things, it won’t matter what stunts GPC pulls, I’ll end up sabotaging Daisy’s research all on my own.” She uncovered a USB drive and held it up in triumph. “Got it.”
    â€œI don’t understand why you think GPC would sabotage the research. I’d think they’d welcome an opportunity to partner with you on something that looks so promising.”
    â€œNot when it jeopardizes sales of their most profitable drug. It wouldn’t be the first time they’ve scuttled promising research.”
    He curbed his skepticism. Worrying about work was the last thing Kate needed right now. “What do you say I take you to lunch after you get that emailed?”
    She bit her bottom lip.
    He was so used to battling her determined side that her uncertainty tugged at his protective instincts. “My treat,” he said for added incentive, unwilling to leave her alone all day.
    Her eyes sparkled, and he marveled at how good it felt to be the cause. “Are you sure you won’t get in trouble for fraternizing with a suspect?” she said teasingly, although he sensed a thread of genuine concern.
    If he wasn’t more concerned about keeping an eye on her, he probably wouldn’t have asked until the counterfeiting case was wrapped up. There was bound to be more talk like Vic’s at A Cup or Two if they were seen together. But . . .
    â€œI’m willing to take the risk.” He winked, drawing a beautiful flush to her cheeks.
    â€œOkay, let me take care of this email and then we can go.” She switched on her computer. “I’ll just freshen up while this is booting.”
    After she slipped into the bathroom, he wandered aroundthe living room, a little stunned that she’d agreed so easily. He wondered if this counted as a second date. With this whole GPC move hanging over her, the upcoming trial against Molly for her attempt on Kate’s life, and now this counterfeiting incident, it was natural that she’d shy away from adding any more complications to her life.
    If only he could convince her that spending time with him was a good thing, not a complication.

    Strolling the grounds of the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens, Kate pointed to a purple coneflower. “That’s an Echinacea purpurea . Extracts from the plant can boost the immune system. But they also make good cut flowers, lasting for up to a week in a vase of water. They’re lovely, don’t you think?”
    â€œYes,” Tom said, his voice husky. “Everything here is beautiful.” Only he wasn’t looking at the garden, he was smiling at her.
    Heat that had nothing to do with the August sunshine crept to her cheeks. “Anyone ever tell you you’re a flirt?”
    â€œNever. But I’ve been told that I’m sincere, honest, and have exceptionally good taste.”
    â€œAh, so that’s why you drove thirty minutes outside of Port Aster? To find the perfect restaurant? Not because you were embarrassed about being seen with me?” She said it with a teasing lilt, but she understood how important it was to keep a low profile. Never mind the counterfeiting suspicions; he was a witness in the case against Molly for her attempted murder.
    â€œNever.” He captured her hand and the warmth of his touch melted the tension from her muscles. He led her along thecobbled path into the trees, away from the other visitors. “The truth is, I wanted you to myself.”
    His breath sent a tingly pleasure scurrying down her arms, raising goose bumps despite the warm temperature.
    He squeezed her hand. “And I figured we could both use some time out from under the microscope of Port Aster’s curiosity seekers.”
    Yes, escaping the speculations had been exactly what she needed. She relished his reassuring touch and his unwavering friendship despite her resistance, as necessary as it was.