Less-than-Innocent Invitation Read Online Free Page B

didn’t. If they hadn’t made reservations, they were going to need a place to stay.
    Melissa gave him a frustrated look. “No, we don’t. We checked out today because we weren’t staying, ” she reminded her producer, pinning him with a hard stare. Remaining in Royal wasn’t an option. Nearly kissing Logan tonight was enough to tell her that her feelings for him went deeper than their years apart could erase.
    â€œThen you have a problem,” Logan stated, already thinking about setting them up at his ranch. “You won’t be able to get a hotel room.”
    â€œNowhere in town?” her story producer asked. “Are you sure?”
    Relief rushed through Melissa and she released a pent-up breath. “Well, that’s that, then.” She almost did a happy dance. Now they could leave. And if Daniel wanted a more in-depth piece on Royal, he could come back—with another reporter.
    â€œYes. Everything has been booked for weeks because of the celebration.” Logan checked the time. “At this hour, you’d have to drive for miles before you’d find an available room, if you’re lucky.” As Daniel’s face fell, Logan put his plan into action. “Tell you what. I’ll be glad to help you out.”
    Daniel leaned toward Logan. “How?”
    â€œI own a ranch just outside of town. I can put you and your crew up while you’re here.”
    â€œWhat?” Melissa squeaked.
    â€œThat would be great.” Daniel missed his reporter’s look of alarm. “Thank you!”
    â€œWait a minute—”
    â€œMy pleasure.” Ignoring Melissa’s protest, Logan shook Daniel’s hand, sealing the deal. “How many are in your crew?”
    â€œThree. The two of us and Rick Johnson, our videographer and sound person.”
    â€œI have plenty of room. I’ll give my housekeeper a call and let her know to expect you later tonight.”
    â€œLogan, wait!” Melissa grabbed his arm as he started to turn away. “We can’t possibly impose on you.”
    He smiled at her. “It’s the least I can do.”
    Not fooled by his innocent expression, she droppedher hand. “So you’re doing this for the town, is that it?” She knew better than to trust him. He had an ulterior motive, but at the moment she was at a loss as to what it could be.
    Logan looked down at his arm where she’d touched him. He could swear he’d felt the heat of her through the fabric of his suit. His gaze swung up to her face. “What other reason could I have?”
    â€œI don’t know. Why don’t you tell me?”
    â€œNone, I assure you, sweetheart. Now if you’ll excuse me, I have a call to make.”
    She glanced at the bracelet watch on her arm. “It’s late,” she blurted, stopping him again, this time with only her words. “You can’t expect your housekeeper to make up rooms for us at this hour.”
    Logan grinned at them both. “Wait until you meet Norah. Believe me, she won’t mind a bit. She’ll make you feel right at home.”
    Melissa’s heart sank. This can’t be happening! She did not want to stay in Royal.
    And she surely did not want to stay at Logan’s ranch.
    That would be just too darn close to the man for comfort. The farther away from Logan she was, the better. She started to protest again, but Logan turned away and began dialing his cell phone.
    Melissa frowned at Daniel. Though she wanted to argue about his decision to stay at Logan’s ranch, how could she? Daniel would want to know her reasons. As it stood, her colleagues knew nothing about her past with Logan.
    And she wanted to keep it that way.
    â€œStaying on a ranch. This will be exciting,” Daniel said, breaking into her thoughts.
    â€œYeah, exciting.” Her voice revealed she was anything but. It was just her luck to have a boss who was a history