Her Secret Texas Valentine. Helen Lacey

and created a legacy that will continue to grow. My sister Maddie is now CEO alongside her husband, so the business is in good hands.”

      “And what are your ambitions?”

      “To be the best I can be,” she replied. “At whatever I do. When I graduated college, I went directly into the business and haven’t regretted it. I enjoy the work and get to spend my days helping people find the home of their dreams. It’s a win-win.”

      Jake realized he could easily get hooked on her passion for life. She was definitely a glass-half-full kind of girl. He liked that about her. The truth was, he liked everything about her.

      They stayed for a little while longer, but by ten she said she’d had enough. Jake helped her into her coat and then walked her from the bar and back down the street. Once they reached her car, she fished inside her small bag for her keys and unlocked the vehicle.

      “Well, thank you for a lovely evening,” she said and held out her hand.

      He stared down into her face, watching as her mouth parted slightly and his own mouth tingled in response. She was eminently kissable. But he wasn’t about to have his first kiss with Valene Fortunado in the middle of a busy street with people walking past.

      He took her hand and enclosed his fingers around hers. “Good night, Valene. I’ll call you.”

      “Are you sure?” she asked quietly, almost nervously.

      “Positive.”

      She nodded fractionally. “Okay, see you soon.”

      As she stepped into the car and drove off down the street, Jake remained on the sidewalk, hands on his hips, staring after the fading taillights. And he knew one thing. He fully intended on seeing Valene again.

      And the sooner, the better.