Not only was Stella stunning with her dark skin, inky black hair and adorable accent, she seemed genuinely concerned, which really said something about her character. To come to the aid of a total stranger was something Carmen would’ve done. Harper felt an instant connection.
“Listen,” Stella added. “I’m just saying that the Michaels boys might be a little hardheaded and have tunnel vision when it comes to their goals. Rightfully so, since their mother left this legacy for them.”
Harper listened to all the reasons why she shouldn’t be so infuriated with Ethan, but that didn’t stop the pain from wrapping its talons around her heart and digging in.
“I just can’t believe that he had no clue who I was at the start,” Harper stated. “The timing...”
“I understand.” Stella eased back on the sofa and crossed her leg. “And today is the first time I met Ethan, but I know Dane. First of all, they look so much alike, it’s crazy. But second, I know those two boys have fought hard to get where they are. I truly believe Ethan had no ruthless intentions where you’re concerned.”
Common sense pushed through the pain, and Harper finally admitted to herself that she believed he hadn’t approached her because of her father—but that didn’t negate the fact he hadn’t come to her when he did find out.
“Listen.” Stella came to her feet and held out her hands. “What do you say I find somewhere to change my clothes and we take a walk on the beach or go grab something to eat?”
Harper’s stomach rolled a little at the thought. “I’m still not up to the point of eating,” she said, patting her stomach.
“Oh, I forgot! This is so exciting.” Stella beamed. “I mean, I think it’s exciting. Are you happy?”
Harper nodded. “I am. Despite everything, I’m really happy.”
Stella smoothed her hair behind her ears and pulled in a breath. “Then let’s take that walk, you can show me around and we?
?ll talk babies.”
“Are you...”
“Oh, no,” Stella replied with a laugh. “But I can’t wait until Dane and I start our own family.”
“I’ll call down and have your luggage brought up,” Harper suggested. “There are plenty of bedrooms here, and I’m sure Ethan would insist anyway. I’m still in limbo, but you can change here and we can go out for a while.”
“Sounds perfect.” Stella pursed her lips. “You’re redesigning the resort, aren’t you?”
Harper nodded. “The design work is pretty much done, and I’m supposed to start the physical renovations next week. I’m not in a work mind-set right now, though.”
“Would you be in the mood enough to give me a hint on what your plans are as we walk?” Stella urged.
Harper felt a spark of delight. “I think I could manage that.”
“I’ll tell Dane the plans.”
Which meant he would tell Ethan, but that didn’t matter. Harper wasn’t asking his permission, and she wasn’t going to be involved in the whole family thing now that his brother had arrived.
Harper might just have to go home and wait until her crew arrived. What once was the most important project of her life had been tainted by a dark cloud and had taken a back seat to the turmoil that had become her life.
* * *
Dane had waited so long for this moment. To finally come face-to-face with the bastard who had altered his future and stolen what belonged to him and Ethan.
His brother stood at his side at the closed door to Robert’s suite. Dane knew the pain Ethan was feeling; he knew the confusion and angst. But Ethan would have to figure out the next steps with Harper on his own. There was only so much advice Dane could give. He would support Ethan no matter what, but that was one battle he’d have to fight alone.
Ethan rang the bell and took a step back.
“He’s still just as much of an ass as ever,” he muttered.
“Good to know some things never change.”
The door swung open, and if Robert was surprised to see them, he didn’t show it. The man had gotten pudgier, harsher. Good. Dane took joy in believing life hadn’t been perfect and easy for his stepfather.
“I’m not surprised you’re both here,” Robert stated, blocking the door from letting them in. “I admit, I was hoping you wouldn’t be so clichéd as to gang up on me.”