The Wedding Agreement: Book Two: Rockson Bay Series

By Jane Anne

Savannah was surprised to say the least, when Jay, someone she hardly knew, asked her to go to his friends' wedding and pretend to be in love with him. Jay had his own reasons for asking her, which he was frustratingly keeping to himself. Savannah, despite her misgivings, found herself saying yes. She had her own secret reason for why she accept

• Language: English
• Publisher: Red Apple Publishing House
• Release date: Jan 28, 2022
• ISBN: 9780645399615

Book preview

One

As the bright sunshine streamed through the window and the scent of her grandmother's cherry blossom tree whispered on the breeze, Savannah was roused from a deep sleep. The heady scent signaled to Savannah even in her sleepy state that the season was changing from winter to spring. Savannah frowned as she drifted on the edge of consciousness, trying to cling to the happy dreamlike state she had been in, all cozy and comfortable in her bed. But the cloying smell overwhelmed her senses and with it the unmistakable knowledge the outside landscape was altering.    

Savannah hated spring. When she finally woke up fully in her bedroom with a reluctant stretch, she scowled and pulled the sheets back over her head. Even in her room with the door and windows closed, her nose was twitching and her eyes were starting to water. 

Wake up, Savannah! You are going to be late. Savannah’s grandmother suddenly swung the door open with a stern expression. You can not wallow around in bed all day. That is not how a woman finds herself a husband. 

Savannah groaned as her grandmother sent her another disapproving look before disappearing down the hall. Francine Thomas, the sole caretaker of Savannah and her older sister Aimee since their mother had abandoned them when they were only little girls, had suddenly decided that since Aimee had recently married her high school sweetheart, it was also time for her youngest granddaughter to go out and find herself a man. Savannah knew her grandmother meant well but the subtle and not-so-subtle hints were starting to grate on her nerves.

And of course, it was spring now which meant Rockson Bay was about to turn into romance central. Despite Valentine's day only just passing, for some reason Rockson Bay had decided spring, with its promise of new growth, flowering tree-lined streets, and warmer weather,  was the season of romance and for years the town council had run a series of events to lure in the tourists and the love-starved locals.  

Savannah loved her small beachside town, but for the past few years, the constant merry-go-round of outings and expectations to socialize tired her beyond belief. She had never been one to constantly feel the need to be out all the time, instead preferring to stay at home with a good book or a movie to watch, and now even more so. And she knew that spring in her town meant the aforementioned community picnics, outdoor movie nights, dances, and who knew what else was being cooked up for the residents this year.

And no doubt this year Savannah would be dragged to each and everyone in her grandmother's quest to marry off Savannah and make sure her two granddaughters had their happily ever after, unlike Savannah’s mother who had never been able to cope once their dad had left them. 

Savannah made herself get out of bed, quickly shower and apply some light make-up in preparation for the day. She took a moment to look at herself in the mirror. She assessed her fair skin, straight light brown hair, and unusual eyes that were a mix of grey and blue but often looked violet on first appearance. Her small nose and faint scattering of freckles across her cheeks meant she was often called ‘cute’ and ‘adorable’ but never sexy or compelling.

Savannah frowned, wondering if her grandmother was possibly right. Maybe she should put herself out there again, instead of trying to hide away. Her reluctance to go out into the world had almost developed into a social phobia and she should probably address that. Then Savannah shook her head. No, she was fine. She was only twenty-five. There was plenty of time for her to get out there and find her person and to feel comfortable in social situations again. She was just in a slump. One that had lasted a few years sure but she was certain if she wanted to she could get herself out of it. For now, she was content to be a homebody where she didn't need to impress anyone and life was above all safe. 

 ....

When Savannah skipped down the stairs, she was surprised when she saw Aimee sitting at the table eating breakfast in the sunny dining room. Her sister shared her light brown hair and blue-grey eyes, but whereas Savannah often tended towards shy and withdrawn, Aimee emitted a calm and elegant air about her. 

What are you doing here? Savannah asked, grabbing a muffin from the counter and biting into it while she looked at her sister. Aimee had moved in with her husband to an apartment in the town center a few months ago, and while it wasn't unusual for her to visit them, it was too early on a Monday morning for a social call. 

Good morning to you too. Grandmother asked me to come over for breakfast. Aimee looked at the empty chair across from her. But it seems she is busy this morning so I guess I am having breakfast with myself. 

Savannah sighed. I bet she wants to convince you to help set me up with someone. It's been her sole mission lately. 

Aimee laughed. Well, we both know how single-minded she can be. Once she gets an idea in her head it is there to stay.

Yes, that is what I am afraid of. I have already had to fend off three men around town to who Grandmother has passed my details onto.

Why don't you just say no? You are not interested in dating at the moment obviously and there is no harm in saying so.

I have tried trust me. Savannah shook her head. Nothing I say will make any difference. 

There is something you could say. Aimee sent Savannah an encouraging look. I'm sure if she knew -. 

No! Savannah shook her head as she followed her sister's train of thought. She never finds out. Okay? 

If that is what you want. Aimee looked like she wanted to argue as she gazed at Savannah over the rim of her coffee cup but then she said lightly. Maybe we should turn the tables and try and set grandmother up then? Aimee laughed as Savannah gave her an amused look. 

Never mind your nonsense, Aimee. I am here now. I had to go make sure the newspaper was on the porch. The silly paperboy throws it in the stupidest places. Francine’s disgruntled voice preceded her as she swept into the room and threw the paper onto the table. I wanted to check the singles ads. You never know what you can find in there. She threw a pointed look at Savannah. For you of course. I am much too old for any of that dating absurdity now that your poor grandfather has passed away. No, best that is left for all of you young people. Francine took her seat and her fierce grey eyes took in her granddaughters. I know you two think this is some outrageous little idea I will eventually get tired of but I have made up my mind. Savannah needs to find herself a man and since she doesn't want to do that herself I will do it for her.

Savannah suddenly lost her appetite at her grandmother's determined words and she threw her half-eaten muffin in the compost bin. 

Well, I better get going. I shouldn't be late today. It's spring now you know and the shop will be busy this morning. As if to prove her point about the season, Savannah followed her words with a dainty sneeze.

Why on earth do you keep working in that flower shop when your hay fever is so bad? Aimee asked, revisiting a conversation Savannah had with her family almost daily. Both Aimee and her grandmother teased her mercilessly about her chosen job when she suffered seasonal allergies something shocking.

Savannah shrugged. Diana is a great boss. She answered, referring to the older woman who owned the flower shop and who had always been a sweetheart to her since she had applied for the junior position a few years ago when she had desperately needed a stable and undemanding place to go every day. I like the hours and that's what antihistamines are for. Savannah put her words to action, grabbing one tablet from her stash and downing it with some orange juice. You two have a nice breakfast then. See you later.

Savannah escaped the room before anyone could protest. She didn't want to hear any more about men or weddings or dates. She had already dealt enough with that at work through the lead-up to Valentine's day and now spring. And she knew Jay would be there today waiting for her, just as he had been every Monday for the past few weeks. Savannah grimaced a little as she tried to imagine what excuse Jay was going to use for being there today. 

 ....

As soon as Savannah entered the small but colorful florist shop, her prediction that it would be busy was fulfilled. The Full Bloom, where she had worked for just over two years, was overflowing with people and the shelves were stacked high with fresh flowers and gifts.

The sweet aroma hit Savannah as she closed the door behind her and she wrinkled her nose as another sneeze threatened. She paused for a moment and waited for the prickly feeling to pass. When it did and she went to put her backpack in the small alcove behind the counter, Diana smiled fondly at her as she rang up a customer. She was in her sixties and sweet as pie, her blonde greying hair cut into a bob, and delicate glasses perched on her nose.

Morning, Savannah. Diana’s eyes twinkled as she pointedly looked at the tall man studying the roses on the other side of the shop. Your secret admirer is here again. 

Savannah followed Diana's gaze, and she shook her head slightly. It was Jay just as she had known it would be, and just like every Monday for the past four weeks, he was no doubt here again to ask her about his ludicrous proposal for his friend's wedding. Irritation and amusement competed inside her as she marched over to him. Her long hair swung down her back as she put her hands on her hips and faced him. She knew the minute he noticed her and she saw his slow appraisal of her and the way his eyes flashed with slight embarrassment. 

Morning, Savannah. I was thinking I might plant some roses at that job on Nautical Lane. What do you think? Jay was a landscaper, and it was a convenient excuse for him to always be in her face at work these past few weeks.

I think you should cut the crap. Savannah returned, her grey eyes flashing and the irritation winning out over any enjoyment she could get from his persistence. And Mr. Peterson doesn't like roses. 

Jay smiled, clearly unperturbed at her mood. Well, what would you recommend? It is spring now - the best time to start thinking of flowers. 

And weddings no doubt. 

Well funny you should mention that because my friends are getting married next week and I need a date. He grinned at her then, his brown eyes that always reminded Savannah of creamy chocolate resting on her with hope. Savannah sighed. She looked over at Diana who was watching this little interaction with unabashed curiosity. 

I think I may have mentioned it a few times. Jay continued. Time is running out for you to say yes.

And time is running out for you to realize my answer is a firm no. 

Come on Savannah. At least hear me out.

I have heard you out. Every week this past month. Diana doesn't pay me to stand around and listen to your fantastical  ideas. 

Jay glanced over at Diana who was pretending to fuss around with some flowers now at the counter but her attention was focused solely on them. Diana likes me and I give her plenty of business so I'm sure she's fine. But I promise I won't bother you at work anymore if you agree to let me explain my idea - not here but somewhere else where we can talk properly. You can't say no without at least giving me that.

I can actually. Savannah sighed as she looked over Jay again. He was persistent she would give him that. If I agree to talk to you about it you won't come here anymore? 

Jay held a hand up to his heart. Scouts honor. 

Were you ever a scout? She asked, and then she continued on with a huff. Alright, I give in. Savannah put her hands up in surrender. I am not saying yes but I will talk to you about it so you can stop stalking me at work. Meet me out the front when I finish work at four.

Deal. Jay casually hugged her, his smile wide and friendly. I knew I could count on you, Savannah.

I didn't say I would agree, Savannah grumbled, but she gave in and managed to return his hug quickly before needing to pull away.  

I know. But I also know if you give me ten minutes alone I can convince you. Jay skipped out of the store, and Savannah sighed again. That was the problem. Her resistance was already wearing down, an idea of her own about how she could make his idea work for her planting itself like a seed in her mind,  and she could already imagine herself saying yes to Jay's ridiculous idea. But at what personal cost to her?

 ....

Savannah had known Jay since middle school. She was a few years younger than him though so they had never really been close. She had watched him from afar at his baseball games and school dances when her grandmother had allowed her to attend, and then he had graduated and she didn't see much of him after that. He was always been with Leo and Nathaniel - his best friends from his school and college baseball days - and their often intense personality had always intimidated her and made sure she didn't try and get too close - Leo with his ability to charm and bed any woman he met, and the strong silent Nathaniel who didn't seem to care for anyone around him. She often wondered why their friendship worked so well when Jay was such an easygoing and kind person but it was obvious he and his friends, which also included