Book Excerpt

LOVE IN BLOOM

“I’m afraid I’ve been out maneuvered.” Now instead of looking over his shoulder, she directed her attention toward his chest.

“Ma’am?”

“You might as well call me Claire. Amy seems to think this is a good idea and she refuses to budge. Since she’s already paid you, she told me I’d be rude if I sent you away, so if you have any questions ask her, don’t bother me.”

He didn’t know why, but her lack of manners amused him. “That’s fine.” Once again, her blank stare returned over his shoulder. Jackson knew she’d been in an auto accident on her way to his office nearly a month ago. When she hadn’t shown up, he assumed she’d just changed her mind. Actually, he hadn’t given the missed meeting much thought until he received a phone call from their mutual friend, Amy. She’d informed him of the accident, an accident that had robbed Claire Wilson of her sight. That may explain why she wore a blue T-shirt paired with the pink and green plaid shorts.

“Amy already told me your ideas for the landscaping. If you don’t mind, I’d like to add some of my own in the mix.” He knew this lady wanted to be left alone, a feeling he could relate all too easily, but he’d see this job through. “I thought about adding a few small ponds and waterfalls along with heavily scented plants and flowers. All the variety would give you more to enjoy by using your other senses.”

The impatient foot tapping stopped. For a minute, Jackson feared she’d slam the solid oak door in his face. “Whatever. I do have one request, though. I’d like a weeping willow tree planted on the back of the property, near the base of the hill. As soon as possible, please.”

“No problem.”

When she continued to stare, he assumed their interesting conversation had come to a close. “Well, I’ll just get started.” Before he could step off her porch and onto the stone covered steps, the door slammed. At least he wouldn’t have to worry about chit-chat. Not a problem, he usually didn’t like talking with customers while working. Unnecessary breaks slowed him down.

Jackson made his way around the side of the white two-story cottage to survey his workspace. As his gaze swept over the area, he couldn’t help the twinge of pity he felt for Miss Claire Wilson. She had to be having a rough time, losing the only life she knew in a matter of seconds. He couldn’t imagine what he’d do if he lost his sight. How would he make a living?

How could he judge her rude attitude and curt welcoming? He’d be the exact same way. On a sigh, he shook his head, trying to rid his mind of the lady in the house. What he needed to do was concentrate on the task at hand and forget about the unfortunate woman in mismatched clothing. Once he finished this project, perhaps she’d be able to enjoy a little bit of life again.

Claire had to be miserable. But how long Nearly an hour after walking around taking mental pictures, Jackson climbed into his full-sized, dual cab, black Chevy truck and glanced back at the simple white cottage. The blinds were pulled on the two windows facing the driveway.

How long would she live in seclusion? Did she plan on shutting the entire world out forever? He would mind his business, get the job done, and move on. The sooner he started, the sooner he could finish. Unfortunately, he had a feeling keeping his mind off the unusual lady who chose to shut out the world would be rather difficult.