Chapter 61

“What?” Ace repeated stupidly, although he’d heard Taylor's words clearly. “Work for you? You’re kidding, right?”

“Do I sound like I’m kidding? Have you ever known me to joke where business is concerned?”

Hmm. The woman had a point. Taylor Croft didn’t throw words around lightly, but Ace had no idea how to respond without offending her. Taylor had left her yacht, something she’d sworn to never do, to come around the world simply to check on him. Ace might not love her, but Taylor would always be an important part of his life, and Emily would have to understand.

“No.” Checking on Emily, Ace hated that cold, blank expression that had settled over her face. She’d thrown up that damn shield, as if expecting to be disappointed. “You know I wanted to come home to be with my family. And you couldn’t know this, but Liam's hurt, and I can’t leave him now.” He sketched out the facts of the accident.

Taylor's face was etched with concern. “Do you need my help? I