Thorns — Jessica N. Lane

The affluent Thorn family has it all: looks, money, power, … and secrets. One matter that refuses to remain a secret is the bitter rivalry between the family's two eldest sisters, Rose and Violet Thorn. The two of them have been at odds since Violet was born. Now on the cusp of womanhood, they find themselves as rivals once again; this time, for the affection of the young gardener their mother just hired. Even the prettiest flowers can be poisonous, and few roses are without their thorns.

-Excerpt-

My shy nature pleaded with me to simply thank him for saving me, and scurry away, but I fought it. Maybe this was my second chance to get to know him, since Rose had ruined that by practically gluing herself to his side for the entire party last night.

“Thanks for the help. So, what are you doing?” I asked, an effort to strike up a conversation as I squatted down beside him, mindful of the hem of my soft-pink sundress that barely brushed my knees.

“Working,” was his short reply.

And I was thankful for my deep-bronze skin as I felt my face heat with embarrassment. Had I imagined the way he'd been looking at me the night before, and just a few moments ago? “Um, I can see that... I was just wondering... never mind. I'll go now; sorry I bothered you.”

“Wait,” he called out, clutching my wrist, and gently tugging me back down into my previous sitting position just as I was about the make my retreat. Maurice sighed, and chucked his garden spade to the side before finally meeting my eyes again. “Miss, I'm trying very hard to behave myself, but you seem determined to make it difficult for me.”

“Excuse me?” I asked, confused.

“You're beautiful, but I just got here, and I don't need any trouble. I'm sorry if your fiance was offended by me last night. Please tell him I meant no harm.”

“Wait, did you just say my fiance?”

He nodded in affirmation. “Your sister approached me last night, and told me about your engagement. She told me that I should be ashamed of myself for gawking at you when you're already taken, and though I still can't find it in me to be ashamed, I have enough integrity to respect the vows of marriage.”

“But I'm not married, or engaged. Rose lied to you.”