Free Christmas Diamonds by Devon Vaughn Archer Page A

said, feeling more secure about the relationship he and Paula were building. “Not really.”
    “Then what’s the problem?”
    Chase shrugged. “I guess I just hoped to get some added insight into her before things start to get serious.”
    Sylvester held up a beer bottle and chuckled. “That must have been some kiss.”
    “It was great,” Chase admitted, recalling the moment. “More than that, I feel like I can relate to Paula beyond her physical appeal.” He paused. “I just want to be sure we’re compatible in all areas like…”
    “Don’t overthink this, Chase,” Sylvester implored. “She’s not Rochelle and never will be, but it doesn’t mean that Paula doesn’t offer just as much as a woman. Why don’t you just enjoy her company?”
    “Yeah, you’re right.” There was no need for him to get too carried away about everything being perfect between them when they hadn’t even had their first real date yet. It was something Chase very much looked forward to in taking things to another plateau. “I won’t go overboard in looking at the future and the past. I think I’ll just work on the present right now and see how things turn out.”

    Sylvester grinned. “I’m glad you see it that way. I really hope the two of you find you’re on to something great here. You’re way too young to be moping around all by yourself. Trust me when I tell you there will be better times ahead in your personal life.”
    Chase smiled, warmed by the thought. “Hope so.” He remained cautious but optimistic that Paula was someone with whom he might be able to make a serious connection. He couldn’t deny that she was a great kisser, which only made him hungry to see if she was just as great in bed.
    “Are you ever going to take that shot, or what?” Sylvester asked wryly. “I’m not getting any younger standing here waiting.”
    Chase chuckled and aimed the cue stick. “Eight ball in the corner pocket,” he said before declaring victory.

Chapter 7
    O n Saturday afternoon, Paula supervised the work while her contractor’s crew moved things in and out of Chase’s master suite. Since she was ultimately responsible for any mishap or damage, she urged everyone to be careful as always. In this case, Paula was especially conscious of the beautiful surroundings. Wanting to continue to make a good impression on Chase, she sought to finish the project as quickly as possible and get a solid thumbs-up from him.
    “Where do you want this?” asked Jim, a crew member, as he and another man brought in the entertainment cabinet.
    “Let’s put it right along this wall,” Paula directed. She watched with satisfaction when it fit perfectly.
    Jackie, the housekeeper, came in as they went out. “What can I do to help?”
    “Well, as soon as everything’s in place, you can help me put the new sheets and covers on the bed,” Paula told her.
    “Will do. Just give me a shout when you’re ready.”
    “Thanks, Jackie.”

    Paula imagined it must be nice to have someone to keep the place tidy for a busy man like Chase with his wife no longer there to do her part. While Isa did many of the chores at home, mostly out of boredom and with too much time on her hands, Paula was only too happy to pitch in. The same would be true were she living with a man. Paula had no problem holding up her end in maintaining a clean, comfortable household. She thought about Chase. She had asked him to stay away for a couple of hours so he wouldn’t be tempted to check out the progress before the work was complete.
    Paula walked over to one of the windows, where Bradford was installing the cellular shades. “How’s it going up there?” she asked.
    “Just about through,” Bradford said with a sigh.
    “Good.”
    “I’ll get Chad started on the other one and make sure nothing’s been left undone.”
    Paula nodded. “So far everything seems to be going along smoothly.”
    “You think he’s gonna want us to give the whole house a