Maddie sighed. “Okay, fine. I chickened out.”

“So this time don’t. Be brave. Be bold. Be daring.”

Could she do it? History said no, but she was so tired of being alone. “Well, if I was going to give it a go, who do you propose I have this steaming one-nighter with? Certainly not one of the Java Heaven people. You know I never swim in the company pool.” An image flashed in her mind-of deep blue eyes, dark hair, and a sexy smile-an image she instantly banished. Why in God’s name did that annoying pest Jack Walker always pop into her mind at the most inappropriate moments?

“I know, although I think it’s a gray area since your tenure at any company is finite. But in this case, it’s not necessary to even consider anyone from Java Heaven.” Emma reached into her soft-sided leather briefcase and pulled out the newspaper. She shuffled through several sections, then handed the sports section to Maddie. “Check out the little blurb on the bottom left.”

Maddie quickly scanned the brief article. “There’s a charity golf tournament taking place this weekend at Casa di Lago.” She glanced up. “What does that have to do with me?”

Emma rolled her eyes. “Did you not notice who’s taking part in this golf tournament? Firemen. Lots of firemen. Hot, sexy, muscular, sexy, delicious-did I mention sexy?-firemen. At least one of whom I’m sure would be very willing and able to end your sexual drought. You’d have a great weekend, let off some steam, then never have to see him again. Take it from me-it’s a perfect opportunity.”

The thought of a no-holds-barred, no-commitment-required, liberating night of wild sex rushed heat through Maddie’s entire body. “That sounds good,” she admitted.

“Of course it does. Just a little something to take the edge off.”

“Right. ’Til the real thing comes along.”

“Exactly. Good grief, Maddie, you’re twenty-eight years old. It’s time you indulged in a one-nighter. Don’t be so serious all the time.”