Savage Lust

Christmas holiday plans are shattered when widowed John Douglas passes suddenly, leaving behind three grieving sons. Chad, Sam and Johnny junior are bewildered when their father's last will and testament leaves the ranch and the entire estate to a woman named Topaz Fiero, a stranger. Topaz has no idea what she'll find at the Douglas ranch, or even why John Douglas left her his entire estate and more money she'll ever know what to do with. As her mother's lifelong lover, he was always kind to her whenever he visited and she had regarded him as a father, but she and her mother knew very little of John's other life. Confronted by the three sexiest men she'd ever met, John's sons, she understands their ire. But there has to be a reason why John wanted her to have the estate and she'll fight for it. The Douglas brothers are even more confused when confronted by a young, willful spitfire. She was more than a match for them, one they had not counted on. Topaz is also beautiful beyond their wildest dreams. Who is this girl? Was she a result of their father's affair with another woman? Their sister?

The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage the electronic piracy of copyrighted materials. Your support of the author's rights is appreciated. This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events or locales or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental. Savage Lust Copyright © 2009 Gabriella Bradley ISBN: 978-1-55487-450-7 Cover art by Martine Jardin All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher.

Savage Lust By Gabriella Bradley

To my mother who loved and devoured all my books, may her soul rest in peace and dwell in the gardens of eternity…

Prologue

A

nnoyed, the Douglas brothers sat down to wait in the empty waiting room while their lawyer finished his long-distance telephone conference. “Damn, we had an appointment and we’re on time,” Chad muttered. “The receptionist did say he apologized and that it was an unexpected and quite-urgent call,” Sam said. “Half an hour isn’t that long,” Johnny added, watching his brother get up and pace the room. “It’s not like we don’t know what’s in Father’s will, so why so annoyed?” “I’ve got better things to do. As you said, we know what’s in the will. Father showed it to us some years ago, so why do we have to listen to Terry read it?” “Legalities, I guess,” Sam said. Johnny watched Janet, the receptionist, as she left her desk. She opened the door that had a sign on it telling him it was a file room. She was young, a sexy blonde who displayed plenty of cleavage and a pair of beautifully shaped legs. The short, tight miniskirt and tight top left nothing to the imagination. He’d caught her glancing at them from under hooded eyelids and long eyelashes several times and once, he caught her gaze that sent him an open invitation. He was horny. 1

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After not having a woman for a considerable time, he could stand a one-night stand with a sexy gal. While he was fantasizing about her, his growing cock increasingly uncomfortable in his tight jeans straining against the rough fabric, she called out suddenly. “Could one of you gentlemen help me, please? There’s a box I just can’t manage to reach.” “I’ll go,” Johnny said quickly, sensing an opportunity to ask her out on a date. Sam and Chad didn’t react. They were absorbed in their magazines. Johnny hurried to the file room. After he entered the dimly lit room, he saw Janet perched on a little ladder trying to reach for a box on top of the filing cabinets. Her skirt was hitched up because of the way she strained and he looked at a delectable, naked bottom. She wore no panties. Now, his cock really jumped to attention and throbbed like crazy. His balls grew hard and he could hardly stand the ache in them. To make it worse, she lifted one leg to brace herself against the cabinet. Her pussy was clean shaven, the lips opened slightly, the point of a pink clit just barely visible, the soft folds moist. Ye gads, he wanted to touch her. “I’ll get it for you,” he said, startling her and causing her to lose her balance. He caught her. Blue eyes gazed up at him, full sexy lips opened invitingly. He wasted no time and kissed her. She melted in his arms, her hands already undoing his belt and opening his jeans. Vaguely he saw her kick the door until it was almost closed. “Oh, I’ve wanted this for forever and a day,” she whispered. “I’ve watched the three of you for a long time.” 2

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“We can’t really,” Johnny whispered back. “Not here.” “We can do something. That’s if you promise to take me out,” she said very softly. She sank down. “Aaaah, you’re so big and hard,” she whispered, glancing up at him before she worked her magic on his cock. She licked and sucked it as if it were a popsicle. Her hands kneaded his balls while her mouth worked its wonders. Lapping around his cock, she stuck her tongue inside the hole every now and then, until she finally took it into her mouth fully. He placed his hands on either side of her head and helped her move back and forth as she sucked hard and took his cock fully until it was almost down her throat. It only took seconds for him to come. Beads of perspiration dotted his face as she swallowed and licked his cock clean. “Now you have to help me,” she whispered and promptly bent and spread her legs, her pussy opening up wide for him. He inserted a finger, then three and bent forward to knead a breast. “Oooooh, yeeeesssss, harder, John, harder,” she whispered, almost too loudly. Then she came and he had a hand full of her cream. A huge sigh left her sexy lips as she stood up, straightened her top and skirt and with a little smile, she reached behind him and handed him a cloth. “Wipe your hand,” she said. “Then you can get the box for me.” “I’ll meet you at Mike’s Bistro at seven on Saturday night,” Johnny whispered. “Wear something fancy.” “Okay.” He quickly fetched the box down for her. “Is there a 3

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washroom around here?” “Yes, in the hallway just outside the office. I’ll give you the key. Don’t forget our date, baby.” Johnny left the room first. It was as if Chad and Sam hadn’t noticed that he wasn’t there. When Johnny looked at his watch, he’d only been gone five minutes. It had seemed way longer. But he felt immensely relieved, at least for the time being. He’d deal with the promised date later. Things were too chaotic right now. He’d phone her and postpone it till after the holidays, after things had settled down a bit. “Here’s the key, Mr. Douglas,” Janet said loudly, holding the key out to Johnny. Chad looked up from the magazine he was reading. “Key for what?” “The washroom.” “Oh. Hurry up. Terry should be done soon.” It wasn’t long after he returned from the washroom that Terry called them into his office. The reading of the will was boring, at least the first legal part of it. And then he came to something that shocked the living daylights out of them. Chad stood up from his chair, almost knocking it to the ground. Sam and Johnny sat frozen as they listened to the rest of the will. “Ms Fiero will arrive next week to claim her inheritance. I’ve made all the arrangements. I’ll pick her up from the station.” Terry folded his hands, looking a little uncomfortable about the statement he’d just made. The three young cowboys across from him, whom he’d known since they were babies, did not look happy. The two younger ones muttered under their breath. Chad, the eldest of the three Douglas brothers, 4

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hit the wall with his fist, then turned to face Terry. “We’re going to contest the will!” he shouted. “Shut up, you two. Let’s go,” he told his brothers. He crumpled the will in his fist and started to march out of the lawyer’s office. “The will’s airtight, Chad.” Terence Havilland Senior ran his fingers through his sparse gray hair, exasperated by the Douglas boys’ anger. “If you won’t help us fight it, we’ll find someone else. Goodbye,” Chad said through tight lips, his hand on the doorknob, knowing very well Terry had been the family lawyer for years. “The old man must have been drunk or senile when he made up this will, Terry. You know as well as we do that this isn’t right. The ranch belongs to us,” Sam, a tad calmer than Chad, said. “And who expected the old man to decide on taking a long nap so suddenly anyway?” Johnny asked, throwing a bewildered look at his brothers. “That’s got nothing to do with it. For some strange reason, he changed his will some months ago. Terry, you’ve known my father your whole life. Didn’t you question the sanity of this? Who is this woman anyway?” “Your father was sober and perfectly sane when he asked me to draw up the new will. I’m not at liberty to discuss his reasons. He asked me not to. I’ll help you contest it, if you insist, but you won’t win and it’ll cost you more than you can afford. At least you’ll all receive a generous yearly allowance and Ms Fiero has no choice but to allow you and your spouses and descendents to live at the ranch for life.” 5

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“Fiero…Fiero…I don’t want to hear that crazy name anymore unless it’s in court. Okay, Terry, start the proceedings right away. Call me when you get the ball rolling. Let’s go, boys,” Chad said as he opened the door. “What a fucked up Christmas this is gonna be,” Johnny muttered under his breath as he followed Chad and Sam out of the office. Chad and Sam were silent, their minds not at all on the Christmas holidays but in turmoil about the stranger who would soon arrive at the Douglas ranch. The Christmas lights that lit up the mansion looked welcoming, warm and inviting. Tires screeched as Chad pulled up before the steps and after getting out of the vehicle, he slammed the door hard. For moments, he stood and stared at the tall tree that on the first day of December, the three of them had helped their father decorate, as they did every year. “Chop that monstrosity down first thing in the morning,” he told his brothers. “No!” Johnny shouted. “Just because you’re madder than a rabid dog, doesn’t mean we have to destroy tradition. That tree—” “Be reasonable, Chad. We’ve watched that tree grow. It’s part of our heritage,” Sam interrupted, trying to remain calm. He’d used the wrong word. “Heritage? What fucking heritage? We haven’t got one, brothers. It now belongs to some slut our father fucked. It finally explains his twice-a-year lengthy holidays.” “Maybe he wanted to make sure she was taken care of?” Johnny offered softly. 6

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“By giving her everything? Come on now, little brother.” “He must have loved her or something,” Johnny said, backing away from angry Chad. “Love? Love my ass. A Mexican whore, that’s what she is. I can’t blame him for needing some pussy, but if he loved her, he would have brought her home and married her.” “Chad, you know our father only loved one woman. Mother,” Sam said. “Right, that’s what he always told us. But he was still young and horny enough to need a piece of tail every now and then. But this is beyond insanity. Well, I’ll be ready for Ms Fiero when she arrives!” “Fiero means savage. I looked it up on the internet on my mobile,” Johnny told his brothers. “Nice. Well, she won’t know savage until she arrives here. Topaz Savage, excellent name for a whore!”

7

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Chapter One gazed out the train window at the scenery Topaz flying by, hardly seeing it, her mind a jumble of thought, questions and worry. When the lawyer phoned her, informing her of her inheritance, it had shocked her beyond words. She’d known Daddy John for so many years. He visited her mother regularly, at least twice a year, and he’d stay for at least a month. She and her mother really knew very little about John’s life. Topaz had always thought he worked on a ranch. They never had a clue that he owned one and a flourishing one at that. What do I know about running a ranch? She presumed he had a foreman, ranch hands and a housekeeper. How will they receive me? If only her mother were alive, but she’d passed away more than a year ago. Cancer took her. And at the end, Topaz had begged her to tell her who her real father was, but even then, Juanita wouldn’t tell her. Was Daddy John my father? Could that be why he left me everything? Even after her mother was gone, Daddy John came to visit and he spoiled her and made sure she had 8

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enough money. She’d never taken any of the money he offered her. She was a registered nurse and could take care of herself. “We are approaching…” the voice over the intercom startled Topaz out of her thoughts. Quickly, she gathered her magazines and book and stuffed them into her shoulder bag. A thrill of excitement coursed through her as she rushed to the little bathroom to tidy up. Gazing at her reflection in the small mirror, she grimaced. Her long black hair needed a shampoo badly. After brushing and braiding it, she splashed cold water onto her face, rinsed her mouth, then dried her face. Her cheeks were flushed, the black eyes that gazed back at her filled with wonder sparkled with excitement. And was that a shade of fear of the unknown reflected in them? The train screeched to a halt. Topaz gathered her purse, shoulder bag and carryon and hurried out of the private compartment to the exit. The door slid open, the metal steps descended. She put a foot on the first step and scanned the station to see if anyone was there to pick her up. The station was empty. She was the only passenger who got off the train. Standing on the platform, she wondered what to do next. Would a small place like this have taxis? “Ms Fiero?” a voice behind her spoke. Topaz swiveled to face the speaker. He was an elderly gentleman dressed in blue jeans, a western-style shirt and he wore a cowboy hat, which he now took off and held in front of his stomach. “Yes, that’s me.” 9

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“Pleased to make your acquaintance.” He pumped her hand. “Sorry I’m a bit late. I’m Terry Havilland, John Douglas’s lawyer. I’ll drive you to the ranch.” “Thank you. Are there papers I have to sign?” “Yes, we’ll take care of that in due course. You need time to settle in. Do you have any other luggage?” he asked. “No. I don’t have a huge wardrobe. As a nurse, I was mostly in uniform and I didn’t go out a whole lot so didn’t need much in the way of fancy clothing. Is there a hospital nearby? I’d like to continue my nursing career if possible. That’s if I decide I want to stay. For now, I’ve only taken leave of absence from my job.” “My dear, if you decide you want to live here, you won’t have time. The ranch will keep you hopping.” “I know nothing of ranching.” “There’ll be plenty of people to teach you. And you’ll need to keep the books. John always did that himself.” “Oh, I’m good at figures, and if need be, I can always hire an accountant to take care of that end.” “And you’ll handle the buyers, learn to make deals and stuff. I just hope you’re strong enough to hack life on a ranch. You’re just a frail little thing.” “Frail?” She laughed. “That’s the first time anyone has called me frail. I’m quite strong.” “If you say so. You’ll, also, be beating the young men off with a baseball bat. Haven’t seen such a pretty girl like you in these parts for many years.” “Thank you for the compliment. I’ve managed to keep men at bay all this time. I’m sure I’ll manage.” “This is going to be interesting,” Terry muttered as 10

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he opened the car door for her and waited for her to be seated. “Is it far?” Topaz asked as she looked at the many acres of green pasture dotted with trees and shrubs they passed. Bluebonnets lined the side of the road. “Far enough. Won’t be long now,” Terry answered. He turned off onto a dirt road heading toward some hills in the distance. Topaz peered but saw no sign of any horses, cattle or anything that resembled a house, but she did see a fence now. The shrubbery was thick and it was hard to see what lay beyond. Before long, Terry pulled up before white gates and got out of the car to open them. A sign above the gate told her in large letters that this was the Douglas ranch. A thrill caused butterflies to flutter through her stomach. This was it. This was hers. She’d had qualms about keeping the ranch, but looking at the beauty around her, she already knew deep down that selling it wasn’t an option. The gardens were well kept. Topaz gasped at the mansion that loomed just beyond a beautiful fountain sporting a naked couple in a passionate embrace, its water dancing lazily in spurts down to the water below. Lilies drifted on the surface. She saw flowers everywhere but had no idea what they were. “It’s beautiful,” she said. “Yes, it’s one of the most beautiful ranches in Texas.” “What are the names of those flowers?” “Anemones. And you see Indian blanket, spider wort, creek plum and stork’s bill. It’s December, so not everything is in bloom. Do you like gardening?” 11

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“I like to dabble in it. There’s a lot to learn here.” She looked at the mansion as they pulled up before the white marble steps. Tall, white pillars graced each side and a long verandah stretched from one side of the house to the other. “It’s magnificent. It resembles a mansion from one of my favorite old-time movies. I can’t believe I own it.” “And that you do,” Terry said as he banged the brass knocker. The door opened. A tall man dressed in jeans and nothing else but a kerchief around his neck and wearing a straw cowboy hat faced them. Topaz was stunned. Who is this? The foreman? The man was drop-dead gorgeous. He sent flutters down to her stomach, down her belly, all the way to her pussy. He had dark chocolate brown eyes that held what? Anger? His gaze swept her from head to toe and back again to rest on her face. She met his gaze, felt that probing black stare as if he were trying to enter her brain. Her panties grew damp and she shifted uncomfortably. “Topaz, meet Chad Douglas, the oldest of the Douglas boys.” Her heart fluttered strangely. Douglas boys? Daddy John had sons? Then why did he leave everything to me? “I hope you realize you’re not welcome here!” Chad said. “Now, now, Chad, calm down. You know Ms Fiero owns this house now and everything in it. She has every right.” “Not for long she won’t!” Topaz watched as Chad stepped aside, still eyeing 12

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her angrily. She felt hurt at his attitude but understood his anger. Why on earth did Daddy John disinherit his son? Or…sons? Apparently, there were more members of the Douglas family. Resolutely, she stuck her hand out. “Pleased to meet you. I’m Topaz Fiero.” The man from God’s Heaven didn’t take her hand. “No need for introductions, though I’m surprised. We were expecting our father’s whore, not his daughter.” He might as well have slapped her in the face. “I didn’t know Daddy John had sons. He loved my mother and I don’t appreciate you calling her a whore.” “You’ve read the will haven’t you?” “No. She hasn’t. I’ve got a copy here for her,” Terry said, pulling a document out of his jean pocket and handing it to Topaz. “I’m sorry. I should have faxed you a copy so you’d be prepared or at least told you when we spoke on the phone. John has three sons who inherited a piece of John’s other investments, a large sum of money, a yearly allowance and the right to remain on the property for life.” Oh my God! If she wanted to stay, she had to share the house with John’s sons, who, and rightfully so, were furious at her. Maybe she should hand it all over to them. It hardly seemed fair. Then Chad’s words finally took root, his father’s whore. No one on earth had the right to call her mother a whore! No. John had left her everything for a reason. Maybe his sons were losers, drunks or whatever. It was hers, all hers and after what Chad said, there’s no way in hell she’d hand it over to them. “Your father left everything to me and I intend to 13

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live here. We’ll have to learn to get along,” she told him, his anger helping her instantly to make up her mind. “Now, Chad, don’t cause any trouble. Let the little lady through so she can go shower and unwind from her trip.” “You could have warned us Father had a bastard out there,” Chad hissed. “I didn’t know she’d be this young,” Terry said. “John never said. All he told me was the name and address of this little gal.” “You said he confided his reasons to you. Didn’t they include that this gal is his bastard daughter?” “No. And I can’t tell you what his reasoning was. He made me swear not to reveal it until later. I guarantee I had no idea how young she was until I saw Ms Fiero at the station.” Two other men sauntered into the lobby. “So she’s arrived has she?” one of them asked. “Yes, come and meet your new sister,” Chad said sarcastically. “This is Topaz, our father’s bastard daughter from Texas. Topaz, meet Sam and Johnny, Junior.” Topaz gazed at the two men who now stood beside Chad. If she thought she’d died and gone to Heaven before, now she was ready to swoon. The three brothers looked very much alike. Tall, handsome beyond words, black haired and built. Oh, goddess, are they ever built. The only difference between them was their skin coloring. Sam wore a red body shirt that left nothing to the imagination and Johnny a black one. Chad had the lightest skin of the three. They had the same dark eyes. 14

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Their hair was a slightly different length, but the same color. They could have almost been triplets. There couldn’t be more than a year between each brother. She saw no resemblance to Daddy John who had been fair and blue eyed. They had to look like their mother. “Hi. Guess we’re going to be all living together in this house, huh?” It was so bloody lame. She just didn’t know what to say, especially with her panties getting wetter by the minute and her heart doing somersaults. “This is Topaz?” Johnny asked. “A sister?” Johnny seemed softer natured and quite confused. “I’m not your sister.” “Oh. Then who—” “Your father loved my mother. I don’t know who my father is.” “Well, folks, I have to get back to work. Take care of the little lady here. Be nice to her. None of this is her fault,” Terry said. He put his hat back on his head and left. She was left alone with the three brothers. “Could one of you show me to my room, please? I’d really like to freshen up.” “Find it yourself. Plenty to choose from,” Chad said brusquely. “I’ll show you,” Johnny offered eagerly. “Thanks.” As she bent to pick up her bag, he jumped forward to carry it for her. Their hands brushed as he grasped the handle and it was as if electricity had set off a spark that ran right up her arm. She yanked her hand away. “Thank you.” “Follow me,” Johnny said, sending her a disarming grin. 15

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“Johnny, meet us in the den. We need to talk,” Chad said in a stern voice. Even though Chad was madder than hell and showing nothing but disdain and disgust for her, she couldn’t help but let his voice thrill her. The other brother, Sam, had been very quiet all this time. When he spoke, his voice was an echo of Chad’s, deep, vibrant. “Nice to meet you, Topaz. I’ll see you at dinner,” Sam said. But the expression in his eyes didn’t match the greeting. He gazed at her with suspicion. Again, her blood was set afire. No man had ever been able to get her going. She’d warded off so many advances, gone out with a number of young men but felt nothing. Now, she was faced with three angry brothers, three men who didn’t trust her for a second, who resented her big time and wanted her out of the way and they were turning her on beyond belief. Except Johnny. He wasn’t quite as aggressive as his brothers and was rather sweet. While following him up the wide staircase, her imagination ran overtime. The movie, her old-time favorite, Gone with the Wind, came to mind. Scarlett in that big mansion. Scarlett running up and down those beautiful stairs. Scarlett falling down those stairs. And then the end scene where Rhett leaves her. These men were as handsome as Rhett Butler, if not more so and their bodies to die for. Oh Lord, Daddy John, what were your intentions when you left all of this property to me? “This is the nicest guest room in the house,” Johnny broke into her thoughts. “Guest room? I’d like to see the master bedroom, 16

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please?” “I don’t know. I mean, Chad wouldn’t like—” “It’s not up to Chad now, is it? Please show me to the master bedroom?” “Father hasn’t used that room since our mother passed away so many years ago. It’s probably dusty and full of cobwebs. Chad—” “Please show it to me?” Topaz already knew she could wind Johnny around her little finger as he, with just a little reluctance, led her to a different wing and stopped before double oak doors. “This is it.” When Johnny opened the doors, she gasped at the beauty of the room. It was large. Against the far wall was a huge canopy bed with two fairly large night tables on either side. A chair stood on each side of the bed. There was a big dressing table, mahogany closets and at the far end a fireplace with two easy chairs facing it. Royal blue velvet drapes covered the windows matching the color of the duvet and satin bed sheets. Johnny rushed to open the drapes. Rich Persian rugs covered much of the hardwood floor, the colors all complimenting each other. The room had no cobwebs. It smelled clean and the bed looked like the sheets had just been replaced. There wasn’t a speck of dust anywhere. “This will do just fine,” Topaz murmured. “The room has been well taken care of.” “I didn’t know. After my mother passed away, none of us were allowed in this room. I’ll ask the maid to remove that painting,” Johnny said, shifting uncomfortably. 17

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She followed his gaze and looked at the large painting on the wall of a young bridal couple. It was obviously a young Daddy John and his bride. She saw the resemblance to their mother immediately. John’s wife had long black hair and very dark eyes. She could have been Mexican or Spanish. “No, leave it here. I have no resentment toward your mother.” “You don’t?” “No. Why should I? He must have loved her very much.” “Topaz, how old are you?” “I’m twenty-two.” “Are you really my father’s daughter?” “I’ll be damned if I know. I don’t think so. My mother said he wasn’t. I’m as much bewildered by all of this as you.” “How long did you know my father?” “As long as I can remember. When did your mother pass on?” “Not long after I was born. I’m twenty-six. Sam is twenty-seven and Chad’s almost twenty-nine.” She held her hand out to him. “Thank you for helping me. And, also, for being nice.” When he took her hand in both of his, she felt like drawing him to her, to hold him. He had such a boyish quality to him, one that made her want to fuss over him, to hold him and soothe his anger and to have him kiss her…to feel those sexy lips on hers. “You’re welcome, but you realize I’m going to get into deep shit for this,” he said and squeezed her hand. “I’d best get going. Chad wants us to meet in the den,” he said, sending her a grimace. 18

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“I heard. And that’s probably all about me,” she retorted. “Probably. I’ll see you later then, at dinner. Oh, it’s at seven. Tonight it will probably be in the official dining room instead of where we usually eat.” “Where do you usually eat?” “In the kitchen. We don’t stand much on formality around here, unless there’s a big dinner party or something.” “Well, I’ll eat in the kitchen, just like you. So please inform your brothers of that? Thanks again for your help.” Without realizing, he was still holding her hand. Reluctantly, she felt him withdraw. She loved the feel of his calloused hand. At least one of the three brothers made her feel somewhat welcome and wanted. There was an innocence about him that she found adoring and she felt he had a very soft heart, that he had accepted his father’s decision and didn’t really resent her like his brothers did. After Johnny closed the door behind him, she explored the rest of the master suite. It had a beautiful adjoining bathroom with a sunken tub, also, all in shades of blue. Oh, she could use that right now, but it was late afternoon. No time for soaking in a luxurious hot tub. A shower would have to do. Dressed in just jeans and a t-shirt, she went downstairs to find the kitchen. But when she got there, all she found was the cook and some kitchen help. “Mizz, dinner is in the dining room this evening,” the cook told her, a robust black lady with a shining round face and a very friendly smile. “My name is Corky. I’m the cook. Once, I was a nanny as well, until 19

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the boys got older and then Master John discovered my cooking skills.” “Hello, Corky. I’m Topaz. Where can I find the dining room?” “This young girl here is Tiffy. She does a bit of everything but mostly helps me in the kitchen. Tiffy, go show the young lady where to go,” Corky told a young woman and at the same time muttering to herself about the ‘boys’ who had no manners. Topaz’s heart sank into her shoes. Official dinner in the dining room and she was just dressed in jeans. She didn’t even own any fancy clothes. When Tiffy opened the dining room doors for her, she need not have worried. The Douglas brothers had not bothered to change. It was a beautiful room, fancy enough to belong in any movie. When Johnny stood to pull out her chair for her, Chad gestured him to sit down. The three brothers sat at one end of a very long table that could have easily seated at least fifty people. Her place setting was at the other end. Without further ado, she picked up the cutlery, her plate, her glass and walked to where they sat and promptly set her plate down next to Sam’s. “We didn’t invite you to sit at this end,” Chad told her. “I’ll damn well will sit where I please in my own house,” she snapped. This man might be hotter than hell, but he brought out the worst in her. “Enjoy it while you can. It won’t be yours for long,” Chad bit back at her. Topaz clamped her lips tight although her temper was slowly going from simmer to boil. 20

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“Let’s eat. I’m starving. Bickering isn’t going to get us anywhere,” Sam said while lifting the lids off some of the dishes on the table. She hadn’t felt hungry until the aroma of a pot roast drifted toward her. “It smells delicious.” “Corky is one of the best cooks in town. We’re lucky to have her,” Johnny said, passing a platter of freshly baked buns to her. “What do you mean ‘lucky?’ She’s been here all our lives. She wouldn’t be anywhere else,” Sam said. “Well, I mean we’re lucky she’s such a good cook. Many of our neighbors have tried to entice her away.” “She’s always got a home here if I have anything to say about it.” Chad threw her a venomous glance. “Don’t worry. I don’t plan on changing anything,” Topaz told them while dishing up some mashed potatoes and pot roast. “You won’t be here long enough.” “Fine, Chad, but can we at least be civil while I’m here?” Topaz asked, although inwardly seething. The man infuriated her. Made her so angry, she wanted nothing but to just smack him right now. Sure, I understand his anger, but does he have to be so damn rude? The will isn’t my fault. Vaguely, she wondered if they’d win if they contested it and made a mental note to ask Terry about that. She’d taken leave of absence for three months from her nursing job, having had no intention of staying on the ranch. But that had changed now that she was here. All thoughts of selling were gone. She’d fallen in love with the Douglas Ranch at first sight and she’d take Daddy John’s three sons along with it. They’d not 21

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get her down. No way. Daddy John had left her a fortune so she had the money to fight them tooth and nail to keep the ranch. “Christmas is almost here. How does the Douglas family usually celebrate the holiday season?” “We’re still in mourning and not much in the mood for Christmas,” Sam said. “Your father would want you to continue life,” she said, feeling his sorrow. “True, but he heaped something on us that we hadn’t expected. It’s kind of hard to deal with right now.” “So, do any of you have a lady friend? Engaged?” Topaz asked, changing the conversation and trying to make small talk. “Been there, done that,” Sam said. “We all date but haven’t found the right woman, Topaz,” Johnny told her. “Like it’s any of your business,” Chad snapped. Topaz met Chad’s angry gaze. She tried to read behind those black pools, but they were hard as steel right now. “Dinner was delicious.” Though she was tempted to take another helping, she felt very unwanted and fought the urge. She’d had enough to eat to still her hunger and the tense atmosphere was a tad too much right now. “If you’ll excuse me, I’m really tired and would like to go to bed early.” “There’s dessert,” Johnny said. “I’ll pass on that. Goodnight.” As she stood and turned to leave the dining room, she felt three pairs of eyes boring into her back. Closing the door softly behind her, she let out her breath. “Phew, that was 22

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uncomfortable. Topaz, you’ve got your work cut out for you to win the hearts of these men.” I can’t believe I just told myself that. What am I thinking?

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Chapter Two you’re too nice to her,” Chad chastised his “Johnny, younger brother as soon as Topaz was gone. “We want her gone, don’t we?” “She’ll be gone when we win the case against her. Why do we have to treat her like shit while she’s here?” “Terry told me it could take months, years. Do we want her here during all that time? If she feels unwanted, unwelcome, maybe she’ll go back to where she came from.” Sam finished the last of his pudding. “I agree with Johnny. We don’t have to treat her so crappy. She seems nice enough.” “Not just nice. She’s drop-dead gorgeous,” Johnny muttered. “And sexy as hell. As if you haven’t noticed, Chad. You’re not made of stone.” “I’m not blind,” Chad retorted. “Yes, she’s the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen and she’s sexy, but I won’t let her get to me. She can use those wiles on other men. We need to stay far away from her.” “Why?” Sam asked. “We might as well have some fun with her while she’s here.” “Dammit, Sam, she could be our sister. She says she 24

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doesn’t know who her father is, but she called our father Daddy John. Don’t you think that’s odd?” “He’s not her father. She told you, and she told me again later when I took her to her room,” Johnny said. “Well, we’ll see what the investigation turns up.” “Did you already make that call?” Sam asked. “Yes, after our discussion this afternoon. The PI said he’d get on it right away.” “Would be cheaper to just plain ask her about her life,” Sam suggested. “No, I don’t want her to have the satisfaction of thinking that we’re showing an interest in her. Let’s see what kind of dirt the PI can dig up.” “Are we going to have our usual Christmas Eve bash this year?” “I suppose. Like the woman said, Father would want us to continue life as usual and not sit here and mope. Christmas won’t be the same without him, but we’ll have to get used to that.” Chad stood. “I’ve got some work to do in the study and you two need to go round up the horses. There’s a storm coming in this evening.” “I should warn Topaz,” Johnny said and headed for the stairs, but Chad stopped him. “No. Leave her be.” “But—” “No buts. Plenty of storms where she came from. I’m sure she’s used to them. Go about your chores now.” Johnny threw a woeful glance up the stairs but turned around and headed for the door, followed by Sam. Soon as the door closed behind them, Johnny turned to Sam. “Sam, don’t you think Chad’s going 25

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overboard? We’re all upset over Father’s will, but I’ve been thinking about it. Can Topaz help it? It’s not really her fault, it was Father’s doing.” “Chad thinks she influenced him in some way. We don’t really know her, little brother.” “And we won’t get to know her if he keeps treating her this way. Life will be miserable as long as she’s around and Chad acts the way he does.” “We’ll just take it one day at a time. We’d better hurry. Look at those clouds rolling in.” **** Topaz wasn’t tired, not really. You could have cut the tension with a knife in the dining room and she just wanted to get away from it. Wandering around the room, she looked at the pictures on the wall. They were mainly of the three boys, as babies, as toddlers and it warmed her to see their happy smiles and cute faces. Even then, they were beautiful babies, gorgeous little boys. There were a few family pictures and she wiped away a tear as she gazed at John with his wife and sons. She’d have given anything to grow up with a normal family, to have brothers and sisters, a father and a mother. But it was just always her and her mother and twice a year she enjoyed the company of a stand-in father. As a child, she looked so forward to the times when John came to visit. When news came of his death, it had been a blow. She’d cried as much as she would have for a real father. Resolutely, she wiped her eyes and opened the French doors. Stepping out on the balcony, she saw the 26

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storm clouds rolling in. The tall tree just near the end of the balcony creaked and groaned as the wind assaulted it. One of the branches hung over the balcony railing. The wind howled around the house. She loved storms, always had, even as a child. When her friends would hide under their beds, she’d stand outside to watch the storm come in, to let the rain pelt against her face. She heard horses whinnying in the distance, men shouting and had the urge to go outside. Should I? Why the hell not? She decided to leave the house via the kitchen, presuming the stables were out back. Daddy John had made her take riding lessons and she loved horses. Will they allow me to ride? “I wouldn’t go out there if I were you, Mizz,” Corky told her. “There’s a storm coming in.” “I know. That’s just why I want to go outside. I love storms. And please call me Topaz?” “You be careful now, Mizz Topaz. Master Chad won’t like it and—” “Master Chad isn’t my boss.” Topaz scooted out the back door but not before she saw Corky shake her head and roll her eyes. The wind was fierce and she had to fight against it. In the distance, she saw the stables and men running to get the horses inside. Some of the horses were spooked already. When a loud thunderbolt sounded, some of the horses reared several times. She watched in awe as the men calmed them and led them into the stables. Deep down, she hoped to see the Douglas brothers, but she had no idea where they were. The men handling the horses were all ranch hands. Rain came pelting down 27

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just as two men closed the stable doors. She watched them run for shelter. Dare I go to the stables? Oh, I’d love to be with the horses. Dashing from the shelter of the big tree she’d been hiding behind, she glanced around to make sure no one was around and ran to the stable doors. The wind was so strong she had to fight to close the doors behind her. Soaked to the skin, she leaned against the doors for a moment to catch her breath. The stables were lit by a soft light, the horses restless. Wiping her wet hair away from her face, she approached the nearest stall. It held a beautiful brown mare. Reaching up, she stroked her on the nose, talking softly to her until the mare calmed somewhat. She did the same with each horse until she came to a large black stallion. “Aren’t you just the handsomest thing I’ve ever seen,” she said softly. “What’s your name, huh? Why are you so scared? It’s only thunder and rain. It won’t hurt you.” “What the hell are you doing?” Topaz jumped back, startling the horse. “I thought I was alone in here.” “That’s my horse.” “He’s beautiful. What’s his name?” “Lucifer,” Chad told her almost reluctantly. She stepped forward and continued to stroke the horse’s nose soothingly. “Your father taught me about horses.” “Did he now?” “Yes. He insisted I learn to ride and sent me to riding school.” “I guess the old man was preparing you already. How old were you then?” 28

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“About twelve.” “Did he buy you a horse?” “No. We lived in a small house with a tiny yard. No room for horses.” “Do you have sisters? Brothers?” “I was an only child. My mother died more than a year ago. I never knew my father.” “I’m sorry. I know what it’s like to lose your mother.” Topaz was shocked how his voice softened, at how much kinder he sounded now. “It was hard, but she was in a lot of pain at the end. She’s in a better place now, but I still miss her like hell. Just like I’ll miss your father.” “Are you sure you’re not his daughter?” “I’m sure. My mother wouldn’t lie to me and she swore, no matter how much I would have loved him to be my real father, that John wasn’t. She refused to tell me who my father was, even on her deathbed. She must have had a good reason.” She saw a different side to Chad now, a much softer, kinder side. His eyes had gone from jet black to a melting dark brown, deep pools of chocolate she could sink into so easily. Her heart pounded against her ribs as he stepped closer. Their hands touched as he, too, stroked the horse and talked to Lucifer softly. Between the two of them, Lucifer calmed down and stood quietly, enjoying the double attention. “I’m surprised he let you touch him. He doesn’t take kindly to strangers.” “He feels the love within me. Horses are very sensitive.” 29

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Chad stopped stroking the horse and turned to her. He reached out and cupped her chin in his large, calloused hand. “Topaz, how did you manage to sway my father into leaving you his estate?” Her heart flip-flopped, her stomach had a million butterflies fluttering down and down to her throbbing clit. His touch on her face was scorching. But his words stunned her. “I didn’t. I mean, I…I didn’t even know your father owned a ranch or that he was rich. He never talked about his life here.” It all came out in a small, trembling voice. And not because she was afraid of him. Not the least. It was because he turned her into a blubbering heap of jelly, set her blood afire. “Are you telling me the truth?” “I don’t lie. I didn’t even know he had another family, that he had sons.” When he withdrew his hand, she felt almost sorry. But not for long, because in an instant, he pulled her into his arms and his lips crashed down on hers. Forcing her mouth open, his tongue entered briefly, the kiss hard, hot, scorching. He held her with one arm. With his other hand, he tore at her blouse, the buttons popping, then delved to find a breast. He squeezed it briefly. And before she had time to think, he let go of her, strode out of the stables and left her standing there. Her crotch ached with longing, her breast still felt his touch. Never in her life had any man turned her on like this. And if he’d continued, she’d been in danger of losing her most prized possession. Her virginity. She’d always sworn she’d remain a virgin till her wedding night. No man she’d ever dated had been allowed to go beyond kissing and fondling. And none of them lasted, 30

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because she’d had no interest in them beyond a date or two. Not one of them had awoken feelings within her, the love she craved, that special someone. And now there were three men who awoke feelings within her, who touched her in ways she’d not thought possible. And one of them had just kissed her and touched her soul. Was it his anger that had fueled his lust to kiss me like that? Or was he really attracted to me? Confused, she tied the ends of her wet blouse to cover her breasts since the buttons had popped off. She could still feel the touch of his hand on her breast and her nipples puckered at the thought. He was gone. She was alone now with no one but the horses. The storm raged. Lightning briefly bathed the stables in bright light spooking some of the horses. It was followed by loud thunder. There was a stack of hay bales in the corner. She crawled onto it, relaxed back against one of the bales and undid the zipper of her jeans. They were too tight, so she kicked off her shoes, peeled the damp jeans off and let them drop to the ground below. She needed release and needed it now. Undoing the knot of her blouse, she took it off, too, and lay naked on the hay. It felt good, it felt exotic, exhilarating, heightening her libido even more. Massaging her breasts and nipples with one hand, the other stole down to her cleft. She stroked the soft folds, spreading the moisture that seeped from her pussy, then entered a finger and placed her thumb on her clit teasing it into erection. It was so easy to pretend this was Chad making love to her, so easy to come to orgasm. But it wasn’t just Chad’s face that floated behind her closed eyelids, it alternated with 31

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Johnny’s and Sam’s faces. She finally climaxed but still felt no complete satisfaction. Her hand was wet from the creamy liquid that seeped from her pussy. She wiped it on the hay and just lay back dreaming about that fiery, savage kiss she’d just experienced, aching for more of the same. Thunder struck again deadening the sound of the creaking stable door. “So that’s how you managed to wind Father around your little finger. You took over where your mother left off. I knew you were a slut. Well, maybe I should treat you like one.” “Oh my God! I thought you were gone!” Without a word, he strode up to her and roughly gathered her into his arms. “Is this what you want?” he muttered against her lips while his hands kneaded her breasts, tweaking her nipples so hard it hurt. He roughly spread her legs wide and stood back while he undid his shirt and undid his belt and zipper. She was frozen in time. All she could do for the moment was stare at what sprung free from its confinement. He was huge. Thick and long. Oh, how she wanted him to take her right then and there. But not like this. It wasn’t supposed to happen this way. His cock headed for her wide-open cleft, for her waiting pussy. It pulsed, she throbbed with longing, with need, want, but she couldn’t allow it. He leaned forward and took a nipple between his teeth while his hand spread her pussy lips and he shoved a finger deep inside and withdrew it just as fast. Just as she was about to draw up her legs and plant her knees firmly against his chest to shove him off her, he suddenly stepped back, his cock throbbing gently 32

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against his abdomen and stood there for a moment staring down at her. A flash of lightning briefly lit up his face, showed her his black eyes now filled with desire and passion. It’s what she wanted, what she ached for, but now those eyes slowly turned black and forbidden again as he yanked his jeans up, buckled his belt and put his shirt back on. “Get dressed. You’re lucky it was me who caught you like this. If it had been one of the stable hands—” And he was right. She’d taken a big chance lying there naked. Anyone could have come in to check on the horses. But why did he stop? Sure, she would have stopped him herself, but he was the one who pulled away from her. He turned his back to her. “Get dressed and get out of here and don’t ever let me catch you displaying yourself like that again!” Topaz jumped off the hay bales and put her still-wet clothes back on as fast as she could fighting with their dampness, tying the blouse neatly between her breasts. “I’m sorry, I wasn’t thinking, I—” He turned to face her. “Go. There is such a thing as the privacy of your room. Remember you don’t live alone on this ranch. And the sooner you leave here, the better for all of us.” He was mad at her, madder than hell, she could tell by his eyes, the grim expression on his face, his angry voice. She still had no clue why he’d stopped, even though she would have fought him off, pushed him away. But would I have been successful? He was a big, strong man. Though she didn’t want her first time to be 33

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like this, deep down she knew she really hadn’t wanted it to stop. She loved the feel of his hands on her, his finger deep inside her, his scent, his male scent, that cock she had been able to see for such a brief moment and ached to touch, to hold, to caress with her hand, her mouth, her tongue. “Go!” No word of apology from him for the ugly things he’d said. And she knew he’d never apologize even knowing he’d been wrong. She ran out of the stables into the soothing rain, her heart pounding so hard it resonated in her ears. Her first day at the ranch and she’d not only met the three most gorgeous men walking this earth but had already allowed one to kiss her, to touch her body. In such a very short time, these men accomplished what no other man ever had. They had awoken her soul, they touched her in a way she’d never imagined but always hoped for. What confused her the most was that all three awoke these feelings within her. Is there such a thing as love at first sight? Or is this just pure, unadulterated lust? The rain pelted against her face, soaked her, cooled her. She didn’t really feel like going back to her room, but she didn’t know where to go. The surroundings were still too unfamiliar. Tomorrow she’d go riding, explore.

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Chapter Three has me tied up in knots. I “MywasGod,aboutthattowoman take a virgin. If I hadn’t fingered her first, I wouldn’t have known and it would have been too late,” Chad muttered as he picked up his wallet he’d dropped earlier and had caused him to go back to the stables. “What the hell was she thinking?” His cock still throbbed from the passion she aroused within him. He needed release and he needed it fast. There was only one way. He undid his belt, undid his fly and released his cock. Encasing it in his hand, he pulled the skin back and forth. It didn’t take long before a long stream of semen spurted to the ground. His breathing calmed, his libido stilled for the moment. Never in his life had he been so horny for a woman. Sure, he’d had his share of them, but this one had awoken a raging passion he didn’t even know he possessed, a savage lust. The storm was waning, the thunder now sounding far away. Still stroking Lucifer’s nose, his thoughts were still on the beautiful young stranger, the sight of her naked body engraved in his mind. She had barely arrived, been there less than a day and he was like a dog 35

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in heat. He shouldn’t let Topaz get to him this way, couldn’t allow it. It could spoil all his plans of contesting the will. Making a mental note to call Terry in the morning to see if he had started proceedings, he left the stables to return to the house. **** Topaz awoke to a bright, sunny morning. She stretched, for the moment not realizing where she was and was shocked at how long she’d slept. She sat up and looked around the room. “Oh yeah. I’m at the Douglas Ranch,” she muttered. “Duh.” She’d had a restless night, her dreams turbulent. Three men had haunted her dreams, three gorgeous hunks. After jumping out of bed, she ran to the French doors and opened them. The air smelled fresh, all pollen and dust washed away by the rain. Stepping onto the balcony, she gazed out over the vast ranch. There were some broken branches on the lawns, leaves were scattered, but apart from that, it was a beautiful sight. The sound of hooves sounded below her. Leaning over the railing, she saw Johnny riding a white horse. “Morning, Johnny,” she called out. Johnny looked up at her and only when she saw the expression on his face did she realize she wore nothing but her g-string panties and a smallish t-shirt. Feeling the blood rush to her face, she grinned and quickly escaped back into the bedroom. For the second time she’d exposed herself to one of the Douglas men. She was just lucky it wasn’t Chad, 36

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not after the experience of the night before. Then she’d really have been mortified. After putting on some sweats, she went back out on the balcony. Johnny was still there. He seemed to be waiting for someone. “Johnny, is it okay for me to go riding?” she called out to him. He looked up at her again, his gaze hot and filled with desire, longing. “I’ll have one of the hands saddle Daisy for you, Topaz. Maybe someone should go with you. I wouldn’t want you to get lost.” “I’ll be fine. The weather is beautiful and I’m sure the horse can find its way back. I’d rather be alone.” “Watch out for rattlesnakes and we have seen some coyotes of late, and some rustling. I’d feel a lot more comfortable if one of the hands goes with you.” “Fine. If you insist.” “I’ll ask Hank. He’s one of our old timers. He’s been on the ranch as long as I can remember. I’ll get him to meet you at the stables.” Just then, Chad rode up on his black stallion. He looked up at her with an undecipherable expression. “Let’s go, John,” he said and tapped Johnny’s horse on the flank. They rode off and Topaz hurried inside to shower, eager to explore the ranch and later the sprawling mansion. After she showered, she quickly dressed and before leaving the room she made a mental note to unpack her bag later. It wasn’t Hank who met her at the stables. It was Sam. “Hello, Sam. Have you seen Hank? Johnny said he would—” 37

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“I told Hank I’d go with you. Daisy is ready for you,” Sam interrupted. “Hank is busy.” “Oh. You don’t mind?” “Not at all.” Topaz led Daisy out of the stables. She was about to mount when Sam came up behind her. “Let me help you,” he offered. “Don’t need your help. I can ride.” She promptly put her foot in the stirrup and mounted the horse. “You’re full of surprises, aren’t you?” “What do you mean?” “Chad told me that Father paid for you to have riding lessons.” “Yes, he did.” “Why would he do that?” “He said he wanted me to know how to ride properly. I was just a girl. I was excited and eager to learn and happy that he’d do that for me.” “What else did he do for you?” “Is this a thousand-questions session or are we going riding?” She promptly kicked Daisy in the sides and the mare started to trot. All the questions were irritating, yet understandable. There were a million questions in her own mind about the Douglas brothers, about her inheritance. They didn’t come across as losers or drunks. Why then did Daddy John leave me everything and rob his sons of their inheritance? Was there bad blood between father and sons? She knew Chad was planning to contest the will, had probably already started proceedings and in a way, she hoped they’d win, or at least get a fair share of everything and the ranch. She’d fallen in love with the 38

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ranch from the moment Terry drove her onto the property, but she really had no right to it. And that would free her to pursue any amorous interest she had in the brothers. That’s if she could stay of course. Sam had taken the lead. Daisy followed automatically. The movement against the saddle turned her on, as it always did, but this time, it was a lot worse as she gazed at the handsome man who rode ahead. She had to be totally wicked to desire all three of the brothers. Her poor mother would be turning over in her grave right now if she knew her daughter’s wanton desires. Sam stopped for a moment, then walked his horse down a slope. “This is Lampasas River. We often come here to swim,” he told her. “We have about two miles of river frontage.” “It’s beautiful and so peaceful. I wouldn’t mind a swim right now.” “Isn’t it a little cold?” “I don’t mind the cold.” She scanned the riverbanks, both flanked by an assortment of trees. She thought she recognized oak, cedar but didn’t know what the others were. After she dismounted, Daisy sauntered to the water to drink. “You’re not serious about going swimming, are you?” Sam asked, still seated. “Yes.” “You don’t have a bathing suit with you, or do you?” “No, I don’t, but who needs one? The bushes will hide me when I undress and if you promise not to look, I’ll skinny dip. It’s just too tempting.” 39

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“Okay. I’ll disappear for a little while. Just yell when you’re done.” “You don’t want to come in?” “Uh, no. Not a good idea right now.” “Why not? I won’t tell if you don’t.” Ye gads, I’m flirting with the man and inviting him to swim naked with me. What the hell is wrong with me? She dashed into the bushes looking carefully at the ground for snakes or other critters. It was a gorgeous December day and it actually felt quite warm as she stretched for a moment after discarding her clothes. She peeked through the bushes, but there was no sign of Sam, so she ran to the river’s edge and stuck her toe in. The water felt quite cold, but she dove in anyway. Once her body was accustomed to the cold water, she felt so tranquil, so at peace. Floating on her back, she felt she could spend an eternity on the Douglas ranch. Why would I even consider letting the brothers have it? Surely, we can find a way to all live together? **** Sam slowly rode his horse down the slope to the river. Hidden behind some trees, he watched Topaz as she swam, frolicked, then drifted on her back. Savage desire attacked him, his cock and balls hurting. She was a vision of beauty, her figure perfection, her full breasts firm and hard from the cold water, the nipples as hard as the pebbles on the beach. She’d done this on purpose, he was sure. No one could be so naive to go swimming in the nude when in the company of a man. Would she have done this if Hank was with her? He 40

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watched her turn over to swim up and down the river, her firm buttocks poking above the water every now and then, until she tired and once again floated on her back. She had such beautiful olive skin, she was a Venus come to life. She was perfection. No woman had a right to be so perfect. He shifted uncomfortably in his saddle. Should I join her? Why not? She asked me to. He dismounted and let his horse wander down to the river while he quickly took off his clothes. “I’m coming in, too,” he shouted before sprinting to the river’s edge and into the water. Day two and I’m swimming naked with the woman who stole our inheritance. What am I thinking? He surfaced near her and looked straight into her eyes, those beautiful black eyes that gazed back at him filled with wonder. And what? Desire? Could it be? Does she want me as much as I want her? Do I dare? “I’ll race you,” she shouted. He was surprised at what a strong swimmer she was for such a petite, young woman. Is there anything this gal can’t do? He could have beaten her back to the spot where they’d started, but he let her win by a length. She tread water and splashed him. “You let me win.” “No, why would I do that?” He splashed her back. Before he realized, they were frolicking in the water like a couple of kids. Her tinkling laughter echoed down the river. It was so enticing, so alluring, that the next time she came close, he grabbed her and held her against him. “Now what are you going to do? I’ve caught you,” he said while grinning from ear to ear. At the same time, 41

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feeling her breasts pressed against his chest, her small body against his cock, his desire grew to such an extent he had trouble controlling himself. He touched her cheek in wonder, traced her dainty eyebrows, her slightly tilted nose, then her lips. Oh, those delicious inviting lips. Leaning forward, he claimed them. Gently at first, then his hunger took over and he kissed her with all the basic savage instinct within him. When she sucked his tongue into her mouth, he almost came because of the force of desire that assaulted his every sense. He could feel her heart beating, felt his own hammer in unison, his cock ached for her. Suddenly, she broke free and swam away. She turned around and called out to him. “Who’s out first? You?” He felt tempted to tell her to get out first, but that meant he’d be able to see her completely naked. Her breaking loose from him so suddenly had not cooled his lust. She couldn’t see his bottom half so he quickly took his cock in his hand and masturbated until he felt relief wash over him. What is that gal doing to me? “I’ll get out first.” He didn’t tell her to close her eyes. He didn’t care if she saw him naked. He swam to shore and walked out of the water. Once he stood on the sand, he turned to look at her for a moment. She was watching him, raking his body from head to toe. She’d wanted him, he knew that, felt it, yet she’d rejected him. Thinking about her, her breasts, her lips, the kiss they’d shared, he felt his cock already spring to life again. Before he had a complete erection, he quickly swiveled and headed for the bushes to dress. 42

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“Phew, that was so close,” Topaz said softly as she watched him disappear among the shrubs. The muscles rippled under his bronzed skin as he walked into the bushes. For a moment, he’d faced her and she’d seen him naked full length. Oh goddess, what a gorgeous hunk of male he is. She’d not just inherited a ranch and a fortune but three beautiful men to go with it. She was still horny as hell and it was too awkward in the river to find relief. She’d have to suffer with it. Her heart still hammered against her ribs. Her lips still felt tender from his searing kiss. He appeared from the shrubs and trees, all dressed again. He ran his fingers through his dark hair to slick it back. “I’m done. I’ll wait for you on top.” She almost hated to leave the water, but if she stayed in it any longer, she’d shrivel like a prune. There was always tomorrow. Quickly, she swam to shore and left the river to find her clothes. Standing on the small sandy beach for a few moments, she raised her arms to the sky and allowed the sun’s rays to stroke her skin. It felt so wonderful, so free, so sexy and so tantalizingly erotic. She almost wished he was watching her right now. After she’d dressed, her dripping hair wetting her shirt, she fetched Daisy, mounted her and joined Sam. “I’ll come here often,” she told him. “It’s like a little piece of Eden.” “Topaz, you won’t tell—” “Chad? No, why should I? Nothing happened except a kiss. And I won’t tell him about that either.” “You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met.” “Thank you. I don’t feel so beautiful right now,” she 43

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said, laughing. “No towels, no brush for my hair, I must look a mess.” “Then it’s the most beautiful mess I’ve ever seen. I’ve never yet met a woman who could look gorgeous without makeup. You’re perfect.” “You’re making me blush. No one is perfect.” “Your body, your face, I don’t see a flaw anywhere.” “Sam, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I know it’s a cliché, but it’s true. And beauty is only skin deep. Another cliché. There is a lot more to me than a body and a face. And beauty doesn’t last. Lifelong commitment does and that means growing old and still thinking your partner is the greatest and most beautiful person on Earth even when they’re old and wrinkly. Too many men stray after their wives have a few babies and lose their figures or when the wives hit menopause. Only true love can survive all that. I hope to find it one day.” “I think I just saw a whole different side of you. Why did you pull away? I know you wanted me.” “Because I want to save that special first time for the man who gives me his whole heart and soul, a man who wants to commit to me for life.” “You’re a virgin.” “Yes. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t feel desire and crazy lust just now. I simply won’t give in to it.” “Very unusual nowadays.” “For some women perhaps. I’m sure there are more like me.” “Not the ones I’ve met.” “Did it make you like them any less?” “No, not really. Most of them were nice women, but 44

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none of them were the right one. Like you, I’m waiting for that special someone.” The ranch seemed endless. When they stopped for a few minutes to allow the horses to water at a pond, Topaz asked, “How many acres is Douglas Ranch?” “Over fifteen hundred.” “Wow. It seems endless, but it’s all so beautiful, it’s God’s country. I can’t get enough of it. I guarantee I’ll go riding every day.” “Just be sure someone goes with you at first until you get to know your way around the property.” “I wish I hadn’t left my old laptop at home. I need to learn a lot about ranching and the internet has a wealth of information.” “That it does. Why did you leave it behind? It would have come in handy to email your friends back home.” “It’s fairly ancient and I figured there was probably a computer here I could use.” “There is. Chad has one in the study, but he doesn’t allow anyone to use it.” “I found out. Oh well. It’ll have to be postcards instead, the old-fashioned way of communicating. I still know how to write.” Sam laughed. “Okay, last one home is a rotten egg!” His sexy laughter echoing back to her, he spurred his horse and took off.

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Chapter Four got off the phone with Terry,” Chad said “Ijust when Sam walked into the study.

“And?” “He said he couldn’t file until after the holidays, in January.” “I guess we’ll have to wait. It’s only the second week of December though. Weird.” “Yes. More delays. Even after he files, it could take months before it’s in front of a judge.” “I don’t think Topaz is going anywhere and she’s fallen in love with the ranch so I doubt she’ll try and sell it. I think we’re safe for the time being,” Sam said calmly. “But in the meantime, she’s here, disturbing our way of life. I see you went riding with her.” “Yes. Hank couldn’t go, so I offered. She’s not all that bad, Chad. Have you heard from your PI yet?” “Yes. So far, he’s found nothing on the mother or the girl. Birth certificate only shows the mother’s name. Father unknown.” “Maybe there’s nothing to find?” “Don’t tell me you’ve fallen under her spell, 46

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brother.” Sam avoided Sam’s gaze and shifted uncomfortably. “Uh, no. She’s all right though. I spent about five hours with her today and we talked.” Chad’s face darkened. “Talk? And what else?” “Nothing. I showed her the ranch, introduced her to the hands, to Hank, told her a bit about the ropes so to speak.” “Right. By doing that, you’re making it much more complicated,” Chad’s face was like a thundercloud. “Chad, Johnny and I agree that by treating Topaz badly, we’ll not get anywhere and it’ll make life miserable for all of us. Let’s at least make the time that she has on the ranch agreeable and a good experience for her. If the judge rules in our favor, she’ll be gone soon enough and we’ll never see her again. For Christ sakes, man, lighten up a little,” Sam said and left the study. Chad gazed after his brother thoughtfully. Sam had a point. Topaz wouldn’t be with them for that long. At least, he hoped not. A pang of regret shot through him. If only he could have met her under different circumstances. She was so beautiful, exotic and at the same time sweet and naive. His thoughts dwelt on that moment in the barn last night, her perfect body displayed for him, her breast in his hand, his finger inside her. He was startled when he had encountered the barrier. Shocked and angry with her and angry with himself for allowing her beauty to get to him and losing his self control. If there were anything to dig up, the PI would unearth it. He was the best in his field in these regions. 47

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There had to be a tie in with his mother. Isabella was originally from Mexico. She’d passed away when Johnny was about two and a half, and for years, their father barely spoke about her. Chad could only remember her vaguely. Sam barely. So Johnny must have been about four when their father started his twice-a-year holiday in Mexico. That would fit with Topaz’s age. Or was it later? One Christmas their father dipped into the Scotch too much and was in a sentimental, talkative mood. That’s when he told them how and where he’d met Isabella and how he’d fallen head over heels in love with her the minute he’d seen her. He’d gone to Mexico for a holiday of two weeks and brought back a bride. Chad picked up the phone to call Jack Lennon, the PI, who was in Mexico right that minute continuing his investigation. “Jack, something came to mind.” “Yeah? “My mother was Mexican. Her maiden name was Gonzalez. Isabella Gonzalez. My father never told us much about our mother, but there could be a tie in with Topaz Fiero’s mother. See what you can find out.” “Will do.” Chad clicked the end button and put the phone down. There had to be a solution to this mystery and he was determined to find it. **** When Topaz went back to her room, she was surprised to find that her bag was unpacked and her clothes neatly 48

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put away. She opened drawers to see where they’d put everything. Then she opened closet doors. Not only were her jeans and shirts neatly hung on hangers, but right next to her own clothing hung about a dozen beautiful gowns. Pulling them out one by one, she admired them and couldn’t help but gasp at their beauty. They had to have belonged to Daddy John’s wife. All neatly covered in plastic, they were like new. All of them were long. For some reason John had kept his wife’s dresses, probably unable to part with them. Maybe they had some special meaning, worn on special occasions. There were no other items of clothing in the closet that could have belonged to her. Just the gowns. She recalled the lovely dresses John had bought her mother over the years. Maybe he had a fetish for long gowns and liked to spoil his women with them. That and jewelry. Topaz had inherited her mother’s jewelry, but she had put it in a safety deposit box in her bank in Mexico. The only jewelry she’d brought along were some earrings and her gold chain and locket that held a picture of her mother and Topaz as a baby. She brushed a tear off her cheek. Thinking about her mother still hurt and she missed her so much. What would Mother have done in the same situation? She wished she could talk to her, get her advice. Surely, Mother knew that John had three sons? Why neither of them had ever told her anything was beyond her. What was the big secret? Why didn’t John want me to know about his family here in Texas? He and her mother were lovers all those years. Sure, she’d wondered why he never married her. Why he couldn’t live with them permanently. She’d often asked questions, only to 49

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receive evasive answers. She was sure John loved her mother and cared very much for her, Topaz. He’d often called her daughter. She shook her head to get the cobwebs from her mind. Wondering wouldn’t get her anywhere and she doubted any of the Douglas men had the answers. She’d been too much of a shock to them. Looking at her watch, she wondered where the time had gone. First exploring the house after she got back from her ride with Sam, that had taken some hours and now looking at the dresses and wasting time trying to solve the riddle. It was time to have a bath, to use that beautiful hot tub. It took a while for the tub to fill. She turned on the jets and climbed into the bubbling water. “Oh, I’ve died and gone to Heaven,” she said softly as she rested her head and closed her eyes. The soothing massage of the jets relaxed her completely, took the knots out of her muscles. Images of the day flitted through her mind. Sam’s naked body pressed against her. Sam’s naked body on the small beach, standing there looking at her. His magnificent body, his cock she’d felt so briefly against her and was springing back to life again. She’d seen two of the Douglas men naked now. Her heartbeat sped up. Blood raged through her veins and within a short time, her libido surged. She couldn’t help but imagine their hands on her body, making love to her, kissing her, their fingers between her legs, entering her. Spreading her legs, she rubbed her cleft, thumbed her clit. A soft moan escaped from her lips as she imagined the men doing this to her. She came fast. But it wasn’t 50

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entirely satisfactory. Their faces, all three of them, looked at her, their dark eyes filled with desire. What the hell is wrong with me? She wanted all three brothers and she couldn’t distinguish her feelings for one from the other. It had to be almost dinnertime so she got out of the tub, drained it and wrapping a towel around her stillwet body and another around her hair. She went back to the bedroom. Just as she’d dried her hair, a knock came on the door. Quickly she grabbed the towel on the floor and covered her nakedness. “Yes?” “It’s me,” Johnny said. “Oh. I’m not dressed yet.” “I thought I’d go down with you.” “Give me ten minutes?” “It’s seven. They’ll be waiting.” “Ye gads and heaven forbid Chad would be angry, huh? I told Corky we’ll have dinner as usual in the kitchen, Johnny. I’ll be there shortly.” She hurried into her jeans and a clean shirt, then braided her still-wet hair. When she opened the door, Johnny was waiting for her. “Did you enjoy your ride today, Topaz?” “Yes, it was great. Your brother went with me instead of Hank.” “Chad?” Johnny’s face was a mask of surprise. “No, Sam.” “I’d like to ride with you tomorrow if you feel like going out again.” “I’d love that. Sam showed me a whole lot, but I’m sure he didn’t show me everything. That would take 51

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more than just a few hours.” “I’m free early in the morning. If the weather holds, I’ll go with you.” Like a true gentleman, he offered her his right arm and she walked down the hallway and down the stairs with him. His touch set her on fire. She placed her hand over his and squeezed it slightly, only to have him cover her hand with his left hand, which sent thrills all the way down her body. He only let go when they entered the kitchen and as she’d asked Corky, dinner was casual and at the kitchen table. Chad and Sam were already there, Chad tapping his fork impatiently. “Sorry we’re late. It’s my fault for soaking in the tub too long,” Topaz said as she sat opposite them. Johnny sat next to his brothers. “Yes, talking about that tub, I really resent you taking the master bedroom for yourself,” Chad told her. “I just found out about that today. That was our parents’ room.” “I know. I won’t change a thing, I promise. But right now, as owner of the ranch, don’t I have the right to choose which room I want?” “You can’t just waltz in here and take over! What the hell do you know about the Douglas Ranch anyway and its history?” “Calm down, Chad. Remember what we talked about earlier,” Sam said. Corky, who was about to dish up something from a large pot, stopped midstream and looked at the brothers. “What’s wrong with you? Mizz Topaz is the owner now. She can do as she wants!” 52

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“Corky, it’s none of your business!” Chad snapped. “Listen, big man Master Chad, I changed your shitty diapers. Don’t you give me no lip!” Topaz felt mortified, but at the same time, glad that Corky stood up for her. “I’m not hungry,” Chad said, shoved his chair back and left the kitchen. “I told you,” Johnny said sending her a woeful grin. “Yeah. Taking our parents’ old room wasn’t a good move on your part, Topaz,” Sam agreed. “He’ll have to deal with it. I don’t know about you two, but I’m starving and whatever Corky has in that pot smells great!” Corky’s words had imprinted in her mind. She’d changed Chad’s diapers. That meant she was around when John’s wife was still alive. When she had a chance, she’d talk to Corky and see if she could find out more about the past. “Topaz, there’s something I’ve been wondering about. You speak English fluently without an accent. How did you manage that?” Sam asked. “Your father had me attend an English-speaking school. I speak both languages fluently.” “It’s almost like he was preparing you to take over the ranch,” Johnny said softly. “I don’t know about that. As I’ve told you both, I didn’t even have a clue he owned a ranch. He often told me he thought of me as the daughter he never had. So perhaps that’s why he did all those things.” “Why didn’t he ever marry your mother and bring her back to the ranch?” Sam asked. “I don’t know. He loved my mother, I’m sure of 53

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that.” “Wouldn’t he have told your mother about the ranch, about us?” “If he did, I don’t know about it. I can’t imagine why it would be such a big secret. I’m just as much in the dark as the three of you,” Topaz said while munching on the delicious stew and a slice of freshly baked bread. **** The next morning Topaz got up very early and as soon as she’d showered and dressed, rushed down to the kitchen hoping to beat the men there. “You’re up early, Mizz Topaz.” Corky greeted her with a broad smile. “Morning, Corky. I usually get up early, unless I work graveyard shift.” “What kind of work do you do, Mizz Topaz?” “I’m a nurse.” “Are you now? That could be very useful around here if you’re wanting to do some charity work.” That perked Topaz’s interest, but she changed the conversation. “Corky, you were here when the Douglas brothers were born, right?” “Yes, Mizz. I was here when their daddy was just a little one. I’m getting on in age.” “You don’t look a day over fifty. What was their mother like? What was her name?” “Isabella. She was the sweetest little thing. As pretty as a picture, but she was very frail. Couldn’t talk much English when she first came to the ranch. Master John met her in Mexico, married her there and brought her 54

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home to the ranch.” “Mexico? I suspected as much looking at the photos in the bedroom. Did Daddy John ever talk to you? I mean, on a personal basis? Did he talk to you about my mother? About Juanita?” “A little. Master John told me he’d fallen in love with another woman, but she didn’t want to leave Mexico and he wouldn’t give up the ranch. Mind you, no one could ever take Isabella’s place in his heart. But he loved your mother, too.” “Why didn’t they ever tell me about the ranch? About his sons?” “Mizz Topaz, if you would have known about life here on the ranch, wouldn’t that have fired a little girl’s dreams? Master John always hoped Juanita would change her mind, but it didn’t happen. He had to be satisfied with seeing her twice a year.” “Why wouldn’t my mother want to live here?” Topaz thought about her hardworking, strong mother for a moment. “Maybe she was afraid, Mizz. Fear of the unknown and scared the boys wouldn’t accept her.” “That’s a possibility. She was a good woman, Corky. Daddy John wanted to buy a nice house for her, didn’t want her to work anymore, but she always refused that, too. She was very independent.” “I’m sorry you lost her, Mizz. It must have been hard.” “Yes, it was and still is. I miss her so much. Is there anything else you can tell me? Did Daddy John confide to you why he left me everything?” “No, Mizz. That was a huge surprise for all of us. I 55

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have my suspicions, but I’ll keep those to myself for now.” “Oh, come on. Tell me?” Topaz wheedled. “Nope.” “I’m surprised that you knew about my mother, yet Daddy John’s sons didn’t. He never told them anything? Did you know about me, Corky?” “Nope.” Topaz could tell by the firm set of Corky’s lips that she wasn’t about to tell her anything else. Gratefully, she took the mug of freshly brewed coffee. Corky set a plate down on the table. “Would you like eggs and sausages, Mizz?” “It smells great, Corky, but just toast please. I’m not a big breakfast eater. I’m surprised not one of the brothers is married or even engaged.” “All three have brought various women home at one point or another. Master Sam was engaged for a while, but it broke off. Master Chad was engaged to be married when Master John passed away. When she found out the Master had left everything to a stranger, she broke it off. Rachel made a fool of him in front of a lot of people. Told him he was nothing but a ranch hand and she had no intentions of marrying a man who was just an ordinary workman. I always knew that woman was just after money.” “That explains Chad’s double anger. He thinks he’s lost everything—his heritage plus the woman he was going to marry dumped him right after his father died. What a bitch!” “Yes, she cut him to the core. I doubt Master Chad will trust any woman now.” 56

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“Well, at least a woman wouldn’t be after him for his money or the ranch now. I’m going to have Mr. Havilland make up a will leaving everything to the Douglas brothers. The only stipulation being that if I marry and have children, they’ll be taken care of if anything happened to me.” “I have a feeling you’re going to live a long life, Missy. You might be just a little lady and look frail, but I think you’re a lot stronger than you look. I don’t think that making up such a will, will pacify the boys though.” “I’m not going to tell them yet. I know they’re going to contest Daddy John’s will, but that could take quite a while. Daddy John wanted this for me and I have no intention of giving it up. It won’t affect their lives any. Nothing will change except that I live here.” “Is that so?” Chad’s voice sounded behind her. She’d not heard him come into the kitchen. “And what is it you’re not going to tell us?” Topaz almost choked on her coffee and coughed. “Nothing. Corky and I were just talking.” “Corky? What is it she’s not going to tell us?” Corky just shook her head indicating she’d tell him nothing and set a place for him. “Eggs and sausages, Master Chad?” Chad planted himself at the opposite end of the table and glared at Topaz. “I don’t appreciate you talking to the hired help. Don’t make yourself too much at home.” “I’ll talk to whomever I want,” Topaz retorted. “And you had no right to eavesdrop.” “I wasn’t exactly eavesdropping. I walked in on a conversation and caught the last sentences.” 57

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“Master Chad, you haven’t given me a shopping list for the Christmas party.” Corky quickly changed the conversation. “I have the guest list. Master John gave me that a month ago.” “I suppose he invited the usual crowd? About eighty guests? Corky, you’ve looked after this for many years. You don’t need my help. Just do what you always do.” “When is the party?” Topaz asked. “Christmas Eve.” Chad almost spat out the words. “It’s the first time in many years that there’ll be a real hostess,” Corky said, a broad smile aimed at Topaz. “Heavens. I wouldn’t know what to do, Corky.” “You’ll be greeting people as they come, Mizz, along with the boys.” “You’re all up early,” Johnny sat next to Topaz and Sam followed shortly after. “It’s good. We’ll get an early start, Topaz.” “Early start for what?” Chad asked. “Riding. I’m sure she didn’t see everything yesterday.” “Let Topaz find her own amusement. There’s too much work. You’re not going.” Johnny’s fist hit the table and at that moment, Chad and Johnny could have been twins. Topaz wouldn’t have thought there was any anger in the youngest of the brothers, but she’d been wrong. Beneath that sweet surface lay a will of steel. “I’ll do what I want. You’re not my boss or my father!” Chad drank the last of his coffee, almost smashing the cup by planting it on the wooden table very hard, then marched out of the kitchen. 58

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“He needs to lighten up,” Sam said. “Don’t forget he got hit by a double whammy, Master Sam. He’s a bitter man,” Corky softly reminded them. “I haven’t forgotten. It still doesn’t give him the right to be so goddamn rude.” Topaz felt uncomfortable to say the least. “I’ll meet you at the stables, Johnny. That’s if you still want to go?” “Of course I do.” “Thanks for breakfast, Corky. I’ll see you later.” **** It was still quite cool out so she put on a sweater before heading to the stables. Johnny was already there waiting for her, Daisy saddled and snorting impatiently. “I’m sorry, Topaz.” “For what? Your brother’s rudeness? It’s not your fault. And I understand him better now. Corky told me about Rachel and what she did.” “Good thing, too. Sam and I knew the bitch was just after money and position. Being the wife of the oldest of the Douglas brothers would have given her the social status she wants.” “I don’t know how some women can be like that.” “Men do it, too, Topaz. Marry for money, I mean.” “I suppose.” “You’ll be a target now that you own the estate, which is common knowledge. Gossip flies fast in these parts. You watch. At the Christmas party, the single men will flock around you.” 59

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“Like Scarlett.” “Excuse me?” “Scarlett, in the movie Gone with the Wind. Men flocked around her like bees drawn to honey. Except I wouldn’t just foolishly marry another man if I couldn’t have the man I’d fallen in love with.” “I haven’t seen that movie. I heard it’s a woman’s flick.” “Scarlett fell in love, but then he announced his engagement unexpectedly and in retaliation, she married the first man who asked her.” Topaz mounted and started to walk Daisy off the property. Johnny was beside her. “Have you ever been in love, Topaz?” “No. I’ve had boyfriends, but none of them were Mr. Right.” Until now, she thought. I think I’m falling in love, but with all three of you, even angry Chad. As soon as they were in open territory, she spurred Daisy into a gallop. Again, she reveled in the scenery, the freedom, the wind whipping her hair around her face. Johnny had passed her and led the way. He took her in a completely different direction than Sam had taken her. After they’d been riding for some time, he led the way down a slope, to the river but a different spot. “Time for a break. This is my favorite place,” Johnny said as he dismounted. Topaz jumped down and let the horse roam free to the river’s edge. “Sam took me to the river yesterday, but it’s not as beautiful as this spot.” The river narrowed at the end of a fairly large pond. Large rocks poked from between trees and shrubs and water cascaded down them. She drank half the bottle of water 60

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Johnny offered her. “I wish I’d bought the digital camera I’ve been eyeing for a while,” she muttered under her breath, making a mental note to buy one soon. “Corky packed some lunch for us. Are you hungry?” he asked. “Not yet. Heck, it can’t be lunchtime yet.” “We’ve been riding for quite a while.” He looked up at the sun. “It’s almost noon.” “Wow. It doesn’t seem that long. I’m going for a swim.” “You’re kidding. The water is cold.” “Yes, but once you’re in, it’s beautiful. I swam yesterday.” This time she’d come prepared and wore a bikini under her clothes. “I didn’t bring swimming trunks,” Johnny said. “Don’t let that stop you.” Grinning at him, she took off her clothes and ran to the water’s edge. The sand felt warm under her feet. The water felt colder than it had yesterday so she walked in carefully first to let her body get accustomed to the sudden cold. Once it was up to her chest, she dove beneath the water and surfaced spluttering. “Come on, chicken. It’s beautiful once you’re in,” she yelled out to Johnny who was still watching her from shore. “I’ll turn around. I won’t look.” She gave him a minute or so and turned around to look and just saw him gingerly stepping into the water. When he saw her gaze on him, he dove right in but not before she’d seen him in full-naked glory. He was as gorgeous as his two brothers and his cock just as big, if not bigger. It stood to attention but as soon as he 61

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stepped into the cold water, she watched it wilt and lie dormant on a bed of springy dark pubic hair. Johnny was hairier than Chad and Sam. His skin, also, looked as if he’d been tanning, but now she knew that Sam and Johnny had their mother’s Mexican coloring, whereas Chad, though he looked like Isabella, had inherited his father’s lighter skin. Johnny swam up to her with strong strokes. “Brrrr, it’s cold.” “Once you’re in for a few minutes, it’s fine. I’ll race you to those rocks,” she said. They reached the rocks at the same time. Johnny turned to face her. “See that ledge over there? I used to love climbing onto it when I was a boy and stand under the fall.” “What’s stopping you now?” “Uh, I’m not wearing anything.” “I’m a nurse. I’ve seen everything you’ve got and more.” Topaz grinned, then swam toward the ledge and promptly climbed onto it. She stepped under the stream of water that cascaded down and felt as if she were getting an invigorating massage. “It’s terrific! Come and join me!” She knew she was playing with fire, but it was a fire she wanted to step into. Which one of these three men will claim my heart? Johnny finally took up the challenge and joined her. Within seconds of him standing under the stream of water, he took her into his arms and held her at first. Then he tilted her chin and kissed her tenderly on the lips. It was the sweetest kiss, though she knew he was aching for more. The evidence pulsed against her stomach. 62

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She barely reached all three of the men’s chests. They were well over six feet and she was only a short four feet and eleven inches. She pressed her lips harder against his until they parted and the kiss deepened. His tongue entered, explored, danced a tango with hers. She sucked him into her mouth hard, returned the kiss with all the passion she felt. Johnny pulled her from underneath the small fall. They stood on the ledge basking in the sunlight, but neither of them felt the warm rays. He tore his lips away to kiss her nose, her forehead, then down to her neck. He slipped the bikini strings from her shoulders and bared her breasts. Topaz looked at his face. His eyes filled with wonder and desire as he cupped her breasts and massaged them tenderly, then bent down and took a nipple into his mouth and sucked. Her hand stole to his throbbing cock and encased it. For some reason, she felt bolder with Johnny. The velvet skin felt so wonderful beneath her stroking fingers. The veins throbbed as she stroked and she wiped away a drop of precum and rubbed it around the head. Feeling further down, she cupped his taut sack and squeezed gently, then she put pressure on the g-spot between his cock and his balls and rotated her thumb. He groaned as he switched to the other breast and suckled her nipple. Topaz felt he was close to orgasm. Encasing his cock again, she pulled the skin back and forth, until he suddenly stood up straight and looked down into her eyes. “Topaz, I want you. More than I’ve ever wanted any woman. I think I’m falling in love with you,” and he 63

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kissed her while his hands stole down to her bikini bottom and pulled it down. His hand was between her legs, his fingers exploring, feeling, parting her pussy lips. His thumb was on her clit, rubbing, teasing it, until it throbbed so hard, she thought she’d explode. He entered her oozing pussy with a finger and pushed up hard, only to withdraw immediately. Like Chad, he suddenly stopped and crushed her against him. “Not like this, my love. Not like this,” he whispered near her ear. He’d already made her come and he needed release so she held his cock again and continued to move the skin back and forth until he shuddered and his semen spurted against her belly. They stood there for a while, just holding each other until Johnny stepped back and held her by the shoulders. She watched him drink in the naked sight of her for a moment before he gently pulled up her bikini bottoms, then tied the strings of the top at the back of her neck. Topaz didn’t say anything, just gazed back into those beautiful, warm eyes, eyes that were filled with love and longing. The feelings she was developing for the three men were confusing. She couldn’t differentiate between one brother or the other, but she’d let Johnny go further than Sam and Chad. Maybe he’s the one who will claim my soul? Johnny climbed off the ledge and swam to the shore with swift strokes. Topaz stood under the fall for a few moments to wash his come off her stomach, then followed him. Once she got to shore, he stood before her, his gaze now very serious. “Topaz, how do you feel about me?” 64

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“Johnny, I don’t know right now. I feel very confused. I have feelings for all three of you.” A spark of jealousy flitted across his face. “Sam and Chad, did you—” “No. Not as far as you. But I won’t lie. Both have seen me naked. Both have kissed me.” “I’m falling in love with you. What you allowed just now was dangerous. I felt your hymen. You should have told me you’re still a virgin.” “Yes. I know I was playing with fire. If you’d have been any different, you wouldn’t have stopped, but I would have stopped you. I trust you, Johnny. You’re sweet, thoughtful and kind. You’re not like Chad and Sam, although Sam isn’t as bad as Chad.” “So how come Chad saw you naked and kissed you?” Topaz felt blood rush to her face. “I’d rather not say.” “And Sam? You went swimming yesterday. Sam did as well?” “Yes,” she said in a small voice. “And neither of us had bathing suits.” “You are flirting with fire. This could set brother against brother.” “I’m sorry. I don’t want bad blood between you because of me. Maybe it’s better I leave and go back home, let you three run the ranch.” “No. I don’t want you to leave.” He pulled her into his arms again. “If it’s a contest between the three of us, then so be it. If you choose one of my brothers, I won’t hate you for it.” “Right now, I’m not into choosing anyone. I’m 65

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fighting with these new feelings, Johnny. Emotions I don’t understand. It’s all happening too fast.” “I don’t know how you could have feelings for Chad. He treats you like shit.” “As I said, I’m very confused. I need to sort out these feelings.” “Well, I’d best get dressed. We’ll sit and eat our lunch here and then ride home. It’ll be late afternoon before we’re back at the ranch.” She knew he felt bewildered, hurt even, but at least she’d been honest with him. After taking off the wet bikini, she quickly dressed, at the same time looking at Johnny’s broad shoulders and back, tapering down to a narrow waist, his firm ass, his muscular legs. He’d turned his back to her while he put his clothes back on. Once he was dressed, he walked to his horse, patiently waiting by the water’s edge, and returned carrying a Tupperware container and a thermos. He sat down on the sand and patted the sand beside him. “Come and sit down.” He opened the container and held it out to her. She was hungry now and the chicken legs looked enticing, as did the sandwiches. After hungrily devouring a chicken leg and roast beef sandwich, she eyed the thermos. “Coffee?” “Probably tea.” “Good. Can I have some?” Conversation was stilted now and she was glad when they finished eating their lunch and headed back to the ranch. As Johnny had predicted, it was almost dinnertime when they arrived home. One of the stable hands took both horses into the stables and Johnny walked beside 66

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her back to the house. “Topaz, you won’t tell my brothers what happened?” “Nothing happened.” “It did and you know it.” “I won’t say anything. I promise.” “You told me about Chad and Sam. How do I know you won’t tell them what happened between us today?” “I told you I have feelings for all three of you, that they’d kissed me. You asked. I can’t lie. Neither have they declared any feelings for me, like you. That makes it different.” “But what if they ask?” “I doubt they’ll ask, but if they do, I won’t lie to them. I won’t go into any detail.” Topaz noticed the troubled expression on Johnny’s face. “Don’t worry. And put a smile on that handsome face of yours, or your brothers will be suspicious.” That made him grin from ear to ear. “You think I’m handsome?” “Yes. Just as handsome as your two brothers. The three of you could be triplets. I’ll see you at dinner.” Grabbing his hand, she squeezed it. “Thank you for today. I really enjoyed it.” Taking two treads at a time, she bounced up the stairs to her room.

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Chapter Five

“S

ince you’re going to be in our face at our yearly Christmas Eve party, I guess we should have a meeting to fill you in so you’ll know the schedule of events,” Chad said, his tone brusque. “I’ll ask Corky to join us,” Johnny said and left the dining room to fetch her. “It’s a yearly event,” Sam told Topaz who waited quietly. “A Douglas tradition started by our greatgrandparents.” “I love tradition,” Topaz said. “Anyone of any importance will be here.” Johnny returned followed by Corky. The scowl on Chad’s face had not escaped Topaz. He was doing this with the utmost reluctance, but she knew that, for the moment, he had no choice unless he wanted to make a fool out of himself in front of his guests. To her, it seemed more like an ordeal than an enjoyable celebration. Sure, her mother had entertained a little over the years, but usually they were just small gatherings and it was always very casual. This seemed overwhelming, frightening even, but no way would she show them, especially Chad, that she felt that way. 68

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“Evening, Mizz Topaz,” Corky said as she pulled out a chair and sat. “Did you bring the guest list, Corky?” Chad asked. Corky dug in her apron pocket and pulled out a folded piece of paper. “Like I told you, your daddy gave it to me well before he passed on.” She handed it to Chad. “So what all happens on Christmas Eve, Corky?” Topaz asked. “Missy, Master John always had me go shopping for the hands and their families. The hands and house servants have their party in the late afternoon with a smorgasbord dinner in the kitchen. The party is held in the big barn, or if it’s warm enough, outside around the tree. It lasts for about two hours. The main party starts about eight that evening and a smorgasbord dinner is served in the dining room at about nine. Around midnight, Master John always read from the Bible. That task will be Master Chad’s now. Unless you want to do it?” “Uh, no. Chad is the oldest son. It’s his place to do whatever Daddy John did.” “Then Master Sam plays the piano and everyone sings. There will be cocktails, hors d’ouvres and later on, everyone will open their gifts. Master John always bought a nice gift for each family.” “Who purchases those?” “Master John always ordered them online. They’re already wrapped and ready to go, Mizz Topaz.” “Good.” Topaz almost sighed with relief but held it in at the last moment when she saw Chad’s brooding gaze directed at her. “And my task is merely to greet 69

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the guests at the door as they arrive?” “Yes, Missy, and mingle with the guests.” “And what does one wear for this occasion?” As she asked the question, she noticed Chad open the folded sheet of paper and watched his face darken as he scanned the guest list. “It’s formal, Topaz,” Johnny said, then almost choked on his wine when Chad’s fist hit the dining table. “What in blazes is going on? Why is that bitch’s name still on the list?” he shouted. “Master Chad, your father made that list. When he was still alive, you and Mizz Rachel—” “I want her name gone. You hear?” “Your father—” “Is gone.” “Master Chad, you can’t take her name off. The Moore family has come to every Christmas Eve party as long as I can remember. You take her name off, you have to take off her parents’ names. You don’t want to start meddling with tradition now, do—” “I’ll make my own traditions, thank you, Corky.” Corky cocked an eyebrow and looked at Topaz. “Missy? It’s up to you now.” Topaz felt uncomfortable. “I don’t like messing with tradition. Neither do I want the Douglas family to become the talk of the town. I feel the names should stay there, even if it’s uncomfortable for Chad. Sam, Johnny, what do you think?” She’d hardly spoken when Chad stood sending his chair crashing to the ground. “I’ll not have it! And the first tradition that’s gonna go is what I wanted to do in 70

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the first place a couple of weeks ago! At least I can fix that!” He stormed out of the dining room. Johnny and Sam glanced at each other and Corky looked worried. “What’s he talking about?” Topaz asked. “I think I know. Remember what he said about the tree?” Sam nodded. “Yes. I wonder. We’d best get out there.” Topaz was first out of the kitchen and at the front door. As she opened it, she saw Chad striding toward the big, lit-up Christmas tree carrying a large axe. “Oh, no,” she hissed. “He is not going to chop it down. Over my dead body.” Sam put his arm around her shoulders. “Nothing we can do, Topaz. When Chad is this angry, it’s best to steer clear of him.” “I’m not afraid of him.” Johnny interceded. “Topaz, just let it go. Maybe it’ll take some of the anger out of him.” Topaz didn’t listen. All she could think of was a picture in her mind of that beautiful tree toppling to the ground, of it being turned into firewood. She twisted out of Sam’s arm, evaded Johnny’s restraining hand, ran onto the verandah and down the steps toward Chad who had swung the axe high above his head now. She ran as fast as she could and threw herself at him just as the axe came crashing down. The handle glanced off her head and sent her flying to the ground. As she scrambled up, a fury she’d never known she possessed drove her. “You rude, egotistic animal! You want to behave like a damn gorilla, you can move out of the 71

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house and go live in the barn with the rest of the cows and pigs.” She swiped at the tears rolling down her cheeks, the wetness that ran down her neck, hardly realizing what it was. Her head spun, a red haze drifted before her eyes when she saw him not even glance at her and raise the axe again. “Don’t you bloody well dare!” she shouted and dove toward him. She started pummeling his chest, yanked at his arms, until two shadows loomed behind Chad and pulled him away from her. “Chad, look what you’ve done! Get the hell away from her,” Johnny shouted. Topaz felt dizzy for a moment and swayed on her feet, but strong arms scooped her up. “I’ll take you into the house,” Sam murmured. “Forget about Chad. He’s being an ass.” “The tree—” “Is not as important as you. Look at you. You’re bleeding.” Corky undid her apron and met Sam at the top of the steps. Running beside Sam, she pressed the wadded apron against Topaz’s head. “Master Chad’s gone and lost it,” she murmured. “Mizz Topaz, can you hear me?” “Yes, Corky. Stop him. Stop Chad from chopping down the tree,” Topaz said and tried to wriggle out of Sam’s arms. “You stay still now. You have a nasty cut on your head,” Sam told her. “Johnny is dealing with Chad.” “Make him stop, let me—” “Missy, the tree is fine. Master Johnny stopped him and Master Chad’s run off to the barn.” 72

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“Good. He belongs there,” Topaz said through tight lips, her head now a throbbing mass of pain. “Now, now, Missy. Master Chad’s just angry and hurtin’. He ain’t all bad. Put her down, Master Sam, so I can tend to her head.” Sam sat her on a kitchen chair as if she were made of porcelain. All Topaz wanted to do was run back outside to make sure the tree was safe. Never mind the throbbing headache she had now. That would pass. “I don’t think it needs stitches, Missy.” “Stitches?” “You got hit in the head with the axe handle. You have a cut, but it’s not very deep. Heads always bleed nasty.” “That they do. I didn’t even feel it.” “You were just as crazy mad as Master Chad. The two of you would make a good pair,” Corky muttered as she cleaned Topaz’s face with a damp cloth. “Corky, I’d kill him in two seconds.” “Kill who?” Johnny asked as he came into the kitchen and rushed to Topaz. “Is she okay?” “She’ll be fine,” Sam said. “And she’s referring to our brother.” “Oh. Right now he’s in the barn, ranting and raving like a lunatic and throwing things.” **** Chad threw a rake at the wall and stomped back and forth. “Bitch. Fucking little bitch. I can’t wait till she’s gone! Damnation, Father, why on Earth did you do it? 73

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It’s brought nothing but trouble to our house!” He stopped pacing and sank down on a bale of hay, resting his elbows on his knees and his face on his hands. He closed his eyes and tried to force the anger from his mind. “The trouble is your own doing!” Chad startled. Not only was he furious as hell, but also going crazy as well, imagining his father’s voice. “Have you lost your marbles, son?” “Yeah. I am losing my marbles. I’m not only raving mad, but also talking to my dead father.” “Over here, jackass.” Chad peered around him. Was that a shadow he saw a few feet away from him? Ghosts? Nah, there is no such thing. Dead is dead. “That’s what you think. I’m right here beside you.” “It’s all in my mind. I miss him like hell and now I think he’s talking to me,” Chad muttered. “Damn, I need a stiff drink.” “You could have killed the little one when you hit her with the axe.” “I was aiming at the tree, not at her. She did it to herself.” Ah, now I’m answering the voice in my mind as well. Surely, the action of someone losing it. “You’re an asshole to that little gal. She’s like the daughter I never had. You treat her fair, you hear?” “Fair? What the hell is fair about her walking off with our inheritance?” “She’s not walking off with it, I gave it to her.” “You must have been out of your mind leaving everything to that little whore!” “I’m really getting angry, son.” 74

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“Angry? Ghosts get angry!” Chad roared with rocking laughter. “Why did you do it, Father?” “Firstly, I wanted her to see the ranch and meet my sons. This was the only way to get her here and have her stay. As for my other reasons, you’ll find out soon enough, once you get your mind out of the gutter and appreciate Topaz for who she is.” “You making a new will changed my whole fuckin’ life. Rachel broke off the engagement and—” “That woman was nothing but a money-grabbing cow after a rich stud. I’m glad I kicked the bucket in time to stop the wedding. And for your information, I changed my will right after your engagement, although Topaz was mentioned in the old will as well for a considerable amount of money and your mother’s jewelry.” “Why didn’t you ever tell us about her? About her mother?” “If Juanita would have married me, things would have been different, but she didn’t want to move to the ranch and I couldn’t uproot my sons and move to Mexico. It was better none of you knew about my other life.” “So even if you’d lived and saw me married and then died, Topaz would have inherited everything.” “Yes. I just told you, I changed the will a few months back when you put that ring on the greedy one’s finger. Did she give it back to you? Damn thing cost you a fortune.” “No.” “Figures. Money-grabbin’ whore!” “Father, you’re going too far. Rachel is—” 75

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“The whore you claim Topaz to be. Son, you’re as dumb as a box of rocks. You weren’t in love with that woman. You were mesmerized by her plastic surgeon’s work and her makeup-plastered face. The woman is fucking science fiction. Every time I saw that woman coming through the door, she reminded me of an inflatable doll. Right now, you can’t see what’s right in front of you and you’re denying what your heart’s telling you.” “You don’t know anything.” “Oh? From here, I can hear your thoughts, read your heart, hear and see everything you all do. Like the night in the stables when you almost took her.” Chad shifted uncomfortably on the bale of hay. “I stopped, didn’t I?” “Yes, and you’d better be glad you did or I’d have tanned your hide.” Chuckling, Chad said, “Yeah, right.” “Good. I made you laugh. Now git inside and go apologize to that little lady and from now on, treat her with the respect she deserves. Remember, I’ll be watching you. Watching you…watching you…” His father’s voice faded. Chad shook his head several times. It couldn’t have been real. Because of his frustration and anger, he’d imagined his father talking to him. Nothing but a voice in his head. Now that he was calm, he remembered Topaz’s beautiful face, the blood streaming down it. It wasn’t intentional. If she hadn’t thrown herself at him, she would have been fine. “But is she fine, son? I suggest you go to the house and check on her.” 76

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This time, his father’s voice sounded right next to his ear. And was that his breath I felt on my face? And my imagination that I smelled the rich aroma of a cigar? “You keep talking to me and you’ll have me believing this is real,” he muttered. “Oh, it’s real alright. I’ll be around every now and then to check on my boys. You’ll hear me again. Maybe you’ll even see me one of these days.” This time the cigar smoke was too real. Chad jumped up and made for the doors. “Right, son. Go check on the little gal, although your two brothers and Corky are doing a good job taking care of her.” Although there was no wind and it was a rather balmy night, Chad suddenly felt a breeze while he walked back to the house, and carried on the wings of that breeze, his father’s cigar smoke wafted into his nostrils. He was on the verge of believing that what he’d experienced was real and not part of his imagination. He found Topaz in the kitchen with his brothers and Corky hovering over her. “Is she alright?” he asked in a gruff tone. “Yes. No thanks to you,” Johnny said. “That handle hit her hard. I think she should see a doctor.” “I’m fine. Remember, I’m a nurse. I don’t have a concussion and the cut doesn’t need stitches. I was just a bit dizzy, that’s all. It’s gone now.” “I insist you see a doctor,” Chad said. He noticed how pale she was. “I’m sorry. I didn’t hit you intentionally. If you hadn’t thrown yourself at—” “The tree would have been toast. I hope it’s still 77

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standing?” Topaz asked. “Yes. I won’t cut it down.” “Is that a promise?” “I promise. But I’m still not in agreement about Rachel being on the guest list.” “Give it up, brother,” Sam said. “Let it rest.” “I’ll leave the party in Corky and Topaz’s hands. From now on, I bow out. And you’d best get to bed, Topaz. If you don’t feel better in the morning, I’ll take you to the doctor myself.” Thoughtfully, he gazed after her as she left the kitchen, followed by Corky. The proud way she carried herself, the cute way she tossed her head to the side in defiance and that delicious little ass that swayed a little as she walked. He couldn’t help but feel his cock stir. Thinking about his father’s words, or at least if that was really his father, he begrudgingly had to admit he’d been treating Topaz like a complete asshole. She wasn’t trash. Far from it. Her flirting wasn’t really flirting. She presented herself exactly the way she was, friendly, giving and though he admired her outward strength and the way she’d stood up to him, he felt there was a very warm, loving heart beating inside her more-than-sexy chest. He shifted uncomfortably on his chair as his erection grew and strained against his tight jeans. “Have you heard from the PI?” Sam interrupted his thoughts. “Yes. He hasn’t found out anything else. I doubt he will.” “Ah! So you finally have to admit that Topaz isn’t the money-grabbing whore like you thought she was,” Johnny said, a satisfied smirk on his face. 78

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“I’ll claim the fifth amendment on that one,” Chad said. “You’re a stubborn son of a bitch,” Sam told Chad and punched him playfully. “I’m off to shower.” Johnny stood and started to follow his brother out of the kitchen. “John, wait a minute,” Chad said and when Johnny turned to face him, “Do you believe in ghosts, little brother?” “Why do you ask? Seen one lately?” Johnny chuckled. “Don’t be stupid. I’m serious. Do you?” “Actually, I do.” “Ever seen any?” “No, but I’ve heard things.” “Really? Want to tell me about it?” “Some other time, Chad. My favorite program is starting in a minute.” Chad nodded and was left alone in the kitchen with his thoughts in turmoil. When Rachel broke off their engagement, she’d torn his heart to shreds. He was in love with her. But was I? Did I ever feel the lust for Rachel that I’d felt for Topaz that night in the stables? No. Rachel wasn’t a virgin. They’d often had sex and that’s what it was, just plain sex. Rachel wasn’t much into it as she’d admitted to him. It was a necessary evil to keep a man happy. I thought she’d change in time, but would she have? Did she love me? Or was she just after money, like Father told me just now? She wasn’t a virgin to start with but had sworn she’d never fooled around once, that she must have lost her virginity from riding horses so much. It was strange that thinking about her didn’t turn him 79

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on anymore. Neither did it cut into his heart like it had at first. Rachel’s cool beauty was replaced by an oliveskinned face, a little elfin face that could grace the cover of any magazine without needing makeup, by mysterious gypsy eyes. Again, he felt that strange stirring in his heart, his soul and knew that he had more than a sexual interest in the young woman who had stolen their inheritance. And so did both his brothers. Observing them with her, he’d noticed the expressions in their eyes and realized that both Sam and Johnny were falling in love with Topaz. “Damn, I can’t allow that. It’ll cause an impossible situation. Maybe she’ll meet a nice young man at the Christmas party,” he muttered and adjusted his cock aching to spring free. “Who? Mizz Topaz?” Corky asked as she returned to start preparing a tray. “How is she, Corky?” “I’m going to warm up some milk and soup for her. Sleep will be the best healer, Master Chad. Whatever were you thinking of going out there like a crazy madman? I’m glad your daddy wasn’t around to see it.” “Oh, but he was.” “Master Chad, you’re joking me.” “No, Corky. Father spoke to me in the barn.” “Did he now? I hope he told you off good. You had better apologize to Mizz Topaz in the morning.” “I will. Matter of fact, I think I’ll take her Christmas shopping.” “You’d best see first if she’s okay. You might need to take her to a doctor. She’s a stubborn little wench. Thinks she’s fine.” 80

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“Maybe she is. She is a nurse, Corky.” “And those are the worst for taking care of themselves,” she told him as she left the kitchen.

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Chapter Six would have helped her undress, which Topaz Corky rejected nicely. She felt okay. Her head ached, but that would pass. “Corky, I’m fine. Really, I am. I’ll go to bed, I promise.” “I’ll be back with a glass of warm milk, Mizz Topaz.” Topaz didn’t have the heart to tell her she hated warm milk. After she stripped and put on a nightshirt, she crawled into the large bed and under the comforter. She was exhausted, not just because of the busy day, but the emotions, the stress and finally the bang on her head had done her in. All she felt like doing was going to sleep, but Corky was back in no time with a tray. Plumping up pillows behind her, she set the tray on the bed. “There, you drink this up now, Mizz Topaz. And eat a little bit, too.” The tray didn’t just have a glass of warm milk on it, but also a bowl of chicken soup and some crackers. And of course, Corky wouldn’t leave until she drank some milk and ate. After she forced a few mouthfuls of milk down, trying hard not to gag, and a bit of the soup, Corky was finally satisfied, took the tray and set it 82

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aside. She tucked her in like she was still a little girl, turned on the nightlight, turned the main light off and taking the tray, left the room. Topaz snuggled into the pillow and thought about Chad. He’d actually said he was sorry. But was he really? And how come the sudden change in attitude? Did I really see a softening of his eyes when he looked at me? Or was it my imagination? His face floated behind her closed eyelids. Those sweet, sensitive lips, that hadn’t been tight and grim, like they usually were, his beautifully sculptured face, the dark hair that tended to curl when it was damp. He had the power to grind her soul to powder and he didn’t know it. Out of all three of the men, her feelings for Chad were the strongest. Why? She had no idea. Maybe it was because of his rejection of her. Or maybe it was because she felt his pain. Should I tell him that I’ll have the lawyer make up an iron-clad will that can never be rewritten or contested, leaving everything to the Douglas brothers? Should I give the estate back to them under the condition that I can live out my life here? Her thoughts were in chaos. Her heart thudded against her ribs as she imagined the brothers in bed with her, not one, but the three of them. How can I have fallen in love with three men all at once? The situation had become impossible for her. Maybe she should just leave. “No, dammit! I’m not going to leave. Daddy John wanted me to have all this and live here and stay I will!” she hissed softly into the pillow as her brain turned to mush and she drifted off. **** 83

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Topaz awoke with a splitting headache. Gingerly, she felt her head. The area where the axe handle had hit her was very tender and felt puffy. It was all normal, she knew, but at the same time, it was sore. Glancing at her watch, she realized it was just two days before Christmas Eve and she’d slept late. For the first time in her life, she’d be at a fancy Christmas celebration. Sure, she and her mother had celebrated Christmas in Mexico, but this would be so different. And never ever had Daddy John been present for the Christmas season and now she knew why. A pang of jealousy shot through her that if her mother would have relented and moved to the ranch, these celebrations would have been a normal part of her life. But they weren’t and Christmas day had always been rather quiet, all families taking part in their own celebrations and she and her mother were usually alone on that day. This time I won’t be alone, but what is Christmas going to be like? Filled with anger? Resentment? Or will Chad at least mellow and make it bearable? Washing her hair was a chore trying not to touch the very tender area around the cut. She knew she shouldn’t be washing her hair just yet, but it felt grungy, blood matted in her hair. She hoped she hadn’t started it bleeding again, but when she dried her hair, she saw no blood on the towel. “Mizz Topaz, you shouldn’t be up and about. You had a nasty bang on that little head of yours. Go back to bed and I’ll bring you breakfast,” Corky told her when she entered the kitchen. “I’m fine, Corky. Really I am.” 84

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“And you washed your hair. Not good, Mizz Topaz.” “Corky, I’m a nurse, remember? I know what I’m doing.” “You might be good at taking care of others, but I sure as hell don’t think you’re good at taking care of yourself properly.” Topaz smiled. Corky sounded just like her mother right then. “I’m fine. What I need right now is a cup of coffee and a piece of toast. Corky, I’d like to decorate the house. Do you usually have a Christmas tree in the house? And decorations?” “Yes. It’s always done by now, but because Master John...” “I understand. But he’d like everything to be the same as always, I’m sure. Where are the decorations? And do you use a live tree or a fake tree?” “A live tree. I’ll have one of the hands fetch one. The decorations are up in the attic. Tiffy, after you’ve done the breakfast dishes, go up to the attic and get them, will you?” Topaz noticed the empty plates on the counter. “The men have already had their breakfast?” “Oh, yes, Mizz Topaz. They were up at the crack of dawn.” Topaz felt a pang of disappointment. She was actually looking forward to spending time with the Douglas men and she had to admit, all three of them. “It’s almost ten, Mizz. They’ll be in for coffee soon.” Topaz was halfway done with her coffee when the men piled into the kitchen arguing about some cows. “We’re missing at least twenty-five head. I swear we 85

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have cattle thieves in the area,” Chad said as he planted himself on a chair. “Cattle thieves? Isn’t that kind of old western movie style?” Topaz asked. “Believe me, rustling hasn’t gone out of style. Matter of fact, it’s on the rise. This little heist will cost us about twenty grand,” Chad told her. “See, that’s stuff I need to learn. Is there no way to stop them?” “We have surveillance cameras, but some of the far pastures don’t. They’re pretty smart nowadays. They anesthetize cattle with hypodermic darts. At least that’s one of the methods they use,” Chad told her. “We’ll need to send some hands out there at night to stand guard.” “Nice, just before Christmas,” Topaz said. “Can’t you just bring them in closer?” “Honey, do you realize how many head of cattle we have? How many horses?” Ye gads, he called me honey. “How do you feel this morning?” Sam asked. “Now that I’ve had coffee, I feel great. Head hurts a little.” She threw a sidelong glance at Chad. “I thought I’d decorate the house today. Is that alright with you?” “You’ll do no such thing. The help can take care of that. You just give them instructions. If you’re up to it, I’ll take you Christmas shopping. I’m sure you’d like to buy some gifts for friends at home. And I need to do my own Christmas shopping as well,” Chad said. “Yes, I do need to do some shopping, but Sam and Johnny―” “I’ve already done mine,” Johnny told her. 86

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Sam nodded, leading her to believe he had as well. Go shopping with Chad? What had changed him? She tried to read his expression, but as usual, his face was granite. Do his eyes have a kinder look to them? Or am I just wishfully hoping? “Why don’t you go and get your purse and we’ll go right now. You two go and take care of that broken fence. It needs to be fixed today,” he ordered his two younger brothers. “Wait for me in front,” he told Topaz as he strode out of the kitchen followed by Johnny and Sam. “You’ll melt that cement heart of his, Mizz Topaz. He’s coming around,” Corky said, smiling from ear to ear. “Well, at least he’s civil now. See, all it took was for me to get hit on the head. Is there anything you need, Corky?” “Thanks, Mizz. I’ve done all my shopping.” Chad was already waiting when she hurried down the front steps. Like a true southern gentleman, he got out of the truck to open the door for her. Once she was seated, he even put the seatbelt around her and snapped it in place. His face was close to her chest. His male aroma entered her nostrils and she felt her panties grow damp. His hand brushed her breasts for just a second as he adjusted the strap. “Comfortable?” he asked. “Yes, thank you,” she said, trying not to sound quivery although he’d turned her insides to jelly. Why does Chad have such an intense effect on me? More so than his two brothers? Sam and Johnny turned her into mush, but what Chad did to her libido was 87

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overwhelming and disturbing. Never mind her libido. Even though he’d treated her badly since she arrived, she couldn’t help but have feelings for the man. And now that she knew how badly he’d been hurt by another woman as well as losing his inheritance, she understood his bitterness even more. “Chad?” “Yes?” “Can we talk about the will for a moment? I want to make something clear.” “And that is?” Glancing at him, she noticed the sudden grim set of his lips. “I am going to ask Terry to draw up a will for me. If anything happens to me, I want to be sure the estate is yours and your brothers.” “I gather you haven’t taken the time to read the document?” “No,” she admitted in a small voice. “I hate legal stuff.” “The will already states that in the event of your death before marriage, the estate is ours. Upon marriage, you’re required to have your spouse to sign a prenuptial agreement. Should he refuse to do so and you persist in the marriage, then again, you will lose everything and we will be the heirs, as we should have been in the first place.” “Yes, I tend to agree with you. But then I never would have known about the Douglas Ranch and I never would have met you and your brothers.” “What you’ve never had, you wouldn’t miss.” “True. I guess I won’t need to draw up a will.” “Topaz, you know very well that my brothers and I 88

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are going to fight it as soon as the holidays are behind us.” “Daddy John did this for a purpose, but I can’t imagine what his reasons could have been.” She studied him for a moment. His finely chiseled features, those beautiful sensitive lips, his strong chin and she couldn’t see his eyes because his gaze was fixated on the road, but she imagined them, black, hard at times, but when softened, she could melt under that gaze. She imagined its depths unfathomable right now because of the conversation. “I’m starting to have an idea where his mind was when he made up the new will.” “Really? Care to share?” “No. Okay, we’re here. I’ll meet you at the front mall entrance in two hours. Does that give you enough time?” She’d already undone the seatbelt when he parked, but he quickly walked around the car, opened the door for her and held out his hand. She placed her hand in his and stepped onto the pavement. Her hand disappeared in his and for moments, he held it and gazed into her eyes. What do I see in those liquid black pools? Not the hardness that was there before, but she still couldn’t read him. The warmth of his hand sent sharp lightning up her arm, tremors through her stomach. “Maybe I should go with you,” he said while letting go of her hand. “You may say you’re fine, but that was quite a wallop I dealt you.” “I’ll be fine. If I feel dizzy or anything, I’ll sit down. I’ll see you later,” she said and started to walk away. 89

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Her hand still tingled from his touch and her stomach swam but not because of her head. “Wait, I forgot you don’t have access to the bank accounts yet. Terry said he’d look after all that after the holidays. My brothers and I have our own accounts. I need to give you money.” “I have my own money, but thank you.” He still seemed unsure whether to leave her on her own. “Well, I guess I’ll leave you to do your own thing,” he said and entered a men’s store. It was tough trying to figure out gifts for Chad, Sam and Johnny. Corky and Tiffy weren’t difficult to buy for and Corky had told her earlier she’d already bought for the rest of the staff and their families, as she does every year. What does one buy for three men who seemingly have everything? When she walked past a jewelry store, she saw a beautiful gold compass displayed in a showcase. For Chad, was her immediate thought, so he can find his way to my heart. She couldn’t believe she thought that, yet the gift seemed perfect and yes, deep down she wanted to win Chad’s heart. For Johnny she bought a gold statue of a horse with a clock on its flank and for Sam a gold ashtray with a small statue of a horse and foal perched on its edge. She’d caught him smoking a cigar the day before. Just those three gifts cost a small fortune, but money didn’t matter anymore so she didn’t flinch at digging into her hard-earned savings. She, also, bought a lovely gold chain and cross for Corky and a bracelet for Tiffy while she waited for the engravings she’d asked for. It was too late to send any gifts to her friends back 90

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home, but she told herself she’d do it after Christmas. As she wandered through the mall, she ended up buying quite a few more gifts for everyone. It was a wonderful feeling to be able to spend money without worrying about the cost of an item or having to look for on-sale items. Lastly, she bought some makeup, a pair of highheeled dress shoes, perfume and then went hunting for an evening gown. The dress she bought was plain and simple, a long, black, slinky affair with a knee-high slit up the side. Quite satisfied with her purchases, she headed for the exit. When she left the mall, she found Chad already waiting for her. Glancing at her watch, she saw that there were still twenty minutes left of the two hours. “You’re early. I hope you haven’t been waiting long.” “Yes, I finished what I had to do quite fast. Did you find everything you needed?” “I did and I’m famished.” “That’s a good sign. Give me those bags. I’ll go put them in the truck and we’ll get a bite to eat before we head home.” Topaz was surprised, no quite astounded at the change in his attitude and wondered what had brought it about. Guilt about whacking me on the head? She knew he was still determined to go into full battle for the estate, but for some reason, he had softened toward her quite a bit. That lump of stone in his chest was crumbling little by little. Does he finally realize that none of this is my fault? That I didn’t influence Daddy John in any way, shape or form? “Penny for your thoughts.” He startled her. “You don’t want to know.” 91

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“That bad, huh?” His hand on her elbow as he steered her back into the mall burnt a hole through her sweater she was sure. Once inside, she almost got run down by a woman with a fully laden shopping cart, the groceries piled so high, the woman had to keep her eyes on the mountain to make sure none of her precious cargo fell off. Chad grabbed her by the shoulders and yanked her out of its way. Throwing the woman an angry look, his arm stayed around her as they continued on. It was as if they were a couple. Almost. First his hand. Now his arm. He was reducing her to a quivering heap of pudding. Get a hold of yourself, girl, she thought. Enjoy it while it lasts. His anger isn’t gone yet, it’s still simmering deep inside him. The small bistro he led her to was cozy. It reminded her of photos she’d seen of small French restaurants in Paris. Once they were seated, he picked up the menu. “What would you like? I can recommend their Blanket of Veal. It’s one of my favorites.” “I’ll have that. Sounds good.” He wasn’t kidding when he told her it was delicious. It resembled a stew except for the mashed potatoes served on the side. “You’re a good eater for such a slim woman. I’m used to seeing women pick at their food, always scared to put on an extra pound.” She laughed. “Maybe when I’m going through my mid-life crisis, I’ll start watching what I eat. Who knows? My mother stayed slim till the day she died.” “Do you take after your mother?” “Yes, mostly. Her skin was a bit darker than mine.” 92

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“So she was as beautiful as her daughter.” He thought she was beautiful. Her heart thudded so hard she was sure he could hear it. “No wonder my father fell in love with her then.” Now what did that mean? Is Chad falling in love with me? Is he developing feelings for me? She found that hard to imagine. Last night he still hated her with a passion. Or did he? Isn’t love akin to hate? “He really did love her, Chad. I just wish—” “They’d found a way to be together all these years instead of living separated. I knew what you were going to say.” “I would have given anything to have a normal family life. Brothers and sisters.” “Then we would have grown up together and it wouldn’t be the same.” “The same as what?” He didn’t answer her, but his gaze probed hers as if to figure out her feelings, her thoughts. If he knew what I feel for him, for his brothers, how would he react? Right now she was so hot for him, she could hardly think straight anymore. Her crotch ached with longing. Her body was on fire. But besides the intense heat he caused within her, he had touched her soul. “I still haven’t come to terms with my ex coming to the party,” he suddenly said, changing the subject. “Huh? Oh, Rachel. There’ll be a lot of people. Surely, you can avoid her? And maybe she won’t even come.” “Rachel not come to the famous Douglas Christmas Eve bash? She’ll be there. And you’re right. I’ll just stay out of her path.” 93

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“Good. I hope this will be a Christmas I’ll never forget,” Topaz said and felt heat rise to her face. “You blush deliciously. I’ve never seen a woman who could look so beautiful without any makeup.” “Thank you.” Her cheeks were on fire now. “I think it’s time we head home,” he said. After he paid and they left the bistro, he took her hand in his while they walked to the exit. “I’ve had a lovely afternoon, Chad. Thank you.” “It was nice. It’s the first time I’ve been out since—” He stopped. She didn’t know what he meant, since his father died or since Rachel broke up with him. But it didn’t matter. All that mattered at that moment was that he had changed toward her and he’d enjoyed himself as well.

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Chapter Seven staff and ranch hands’ party, she’d worn just Forjeansthe and a dressy sweater. Topaz had watched carefully as she saw the families heading toward the barn to see what they were wearing. Nearly all were dressed casual. It was busy. Poor Corky had her hands full and wouldn’t hear of Topaz pitching in when she offered. “Mizz Topaz, it’s unheard of. You’re the lady of the house now. Just enjoy it. Mingle with the people and get to know them a little,” she’d said. And now it was time to get ready for the evening’s big party. After she’d showered and dried her hair, Topaz sat in front of the big dressing table. She wished she’d brought some of her mother’s jewelry along now to accent the black dress. Is it stylish enough? Her hair was too silky and soft to pin up so she decided to let it hang loose. After putting on some eye makeup and lipstick, she looked at her reflection. “There, that’ll do,” she told it and grimaced. The makeup was subtle, but it sure accented her eyes and her lips. “Now to put on the shoes and the dress.” She pulled it over her head, the soft satin gliding down easily. The shoes were next. It 95

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had been eons since she’d worn such high heels and she felt uncomfortable walking in them. When she inspected herself in the mirror, she decided she could compete with any of the rich, young women who would be there that evening. With Rachel. Vaguely, she wondered what Rachel looked like. Maybe the dress was too slinky, too sexy. She had no choice but to wear it now. She had nothing else. Unless… Quickly, she walked to one of the wardrobes and opened its doors. Fingering through the gowns, she halted at a pastel green dress. After taking it out, she took the plastic off and gasped. The dress was gorgeous, stunning. It looked like a dress from a movie, from Gone with the Wind. Do I dare wear it? Do the Douglas men even know about this dress? Remember it at all? She slipped out of the slinky black affair and put on the green dress. The zipper at the back was a struggle. She’d need someone to do up the rest for her. The skirt was very full and had several flounces at the bottom. The neckline ran even with the wide flounces that surrounded it and was off the shoulders. She gasped when she inspected herself this time. It was as if the dress had been made especially for her. The full skirt accented her small waist. Just a hint of cleavage showed above the neckline. Yes. She would definitely wear it instead of the black. The black shoes didn’t matter all that much as the skirt almost touched the ground. White shoes would have been better though. She rang the bell for a servant and Tiffy soon came. “Yes, Mizz Topaz? Oooooh, you look so beautiful!” “Thank you, Tiffy. Can you zip me up properly? I 96

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can’t reach.” “Mizz Topaz, you’ll be a star tonight, I swear.” “Have any of the guests arrived yet? I’m afraid I’m a bit late.” “Yes, Mizz. They started arriving about half an hour ago. Mizz Rachel is already here with her new man, but she’s flirting up a storm with all the other single men, including Master Sam and Master Johnny.” “Darn. I tried to hurry, but the staff party finished late, and―” “Doesn’t matter, Mizz. You’ll make a grand entrance, you will.” “And that’s just not what I wanted,” Topaz said with a sigh. Brushing her hair once more, she was ready to go downstairs. Holding the skirt up so she wouldn’t trip, she walked carefully down the wide stairs. The doors to the ballroom stood wide open and it already teemed with chattering guests. When she was three-quarters of the way down, a hush suddenly fell over the crowd. Topaz heard nothing but a few very low whispers and all eyes gazed up at her. She felt decidedly uncomfortable and suddenly very shy. She scanned the guests for familiar faces, the Douglas men, and saw Chad gazing at her. He was surrounded by women. His face wore the usual granite mask, but his eyes were warm and admiring as his gaze rested upon her. Johnny came to her rescue. “Topaz, you look absolutely stunning!” “Thank you, Johnny.” She took the proffered arm and walked to the entrance with him. “Are there more guests to arrive?” “Yes, there are. Sam has been greeting them, but 97

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now you can do your duty as hostess. Chad has gone inside. He’s mingling with the guests. Keep a dance for me?” Johnny asked as she stood next to Sam and he started to walk away. “I will. Hi, Sam, you look very handsome,” she complimented him. And he did. Like Johnny, he wore black dress pants and a white dinner jacket and a white dress shirt with black bow tie. His hair was neatly brushed into place. If she’d thought the Douglas men were handsome, right now they could step straight off the cover of a magazine. “And you look more beautiful than I ever could have imagined. If I thought you beautiful before, I lied. You’re gorgeous, Topaz.” He pulled her arm through his and they waited for the guests to enter. As they filed in, one couple after another, some accompanied by their older children, Sam introduced her. Most of them eyed her with blatant curiosity. Some of the younger women with smirks and some showed evident envy. A couple approached them from the ballroom. The man was mid-height, rather homely. The woman hanging on his arm wore a very tight white dress with a scooped neckline that showed most of her ample breasts. Topaz swore she could see a hint of aureole above the neckline on both sides. A diamond, or at least it looked like a diamond, necklace graced her neck and rested just above the woman’s cleavage, obviously intended to draw eyes to that part of her anatomy. Long diamond earrings dangled from her ears. The platinum blonde hair was pinned up. Icy cold light blue eyes rested on Topaz and took in her appearance. 98

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“Ah, so this is the thief!” “Rachel, that will do,” Sam said. So this was Chad’s ex. The woman resembled a mannequin, a painted doll. “Hello, Rachel,” Topaz said lamely. “Nice to meet you.” “You won’t get away with it, you know.” “Get away with what?” “Harry, go get me some punch.” When her partner left, she continued. “Claiming the ranch for your own.” “Rachel, this is neither the time nor the place for such talk. Anyway, it’s none of your business anymore.” Sam spoke in a soft clipped tone. “Come, Topaz. They’ll be announcing dinner soon.” She’d never been so glad and thankful in her life to have a strong supporting arm. Avoiding that icy stare that was filled with utter hatred, she let Sam guide her into the ballroom. It wasn’t long before what Corky had predicted happened. She was surrounded by eager, young bachelors. They chatted her up, complimented her so much that it almost made her feel uncomfortable and all asked to dance with her later. When a bell rang and Chad made the announcement dinner was ready, she was grateful to escape the throng of men. Dinner was a smorgasbord—a delicious rib roast, several different vegetables, yams, mashed and baked potatoes, fresh baked buns, gravy and pies for dessert. It smelled delicious and she was really hungry since she’d had no part in making it. Usually, when cooking herself, she’d taste everything and had no appetite afterward. After loading her plate, she looked for somewhere to sit. 99

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“Here’s a chair for you, beautiful lady,” Chad’s voice sounded behind her. “Thanks, Chad.” He looked as handsome as his brothers, also, wearing a white dinner jacket, black bow tie and a white ruffled dress shirt. “Has anyone mentioned you look stunning?” “Not using that particular word, no. Thank you.” “I’d like you by my side for the rest of the evening, Topaz. That’s if you don’t mind?” “Hell no. It’ll keep the wolves at bay. I hope,” she quipped. “I saw you surrounded by a bunch of hopefuls.” “I saw you hemmed in by a throng of ladies,” she said. “Yes. If you and I stick together, not only will we start tongues wagging, but maybe they’ll leave us alone. Unless, of course, you enjoy all that attention.” “No, heavens above. I felt quite uncomfortable. By the way, I met your ex.” “How exciting for you. I hope she was nice to you?” “I hope you meant that sarcastically?” He cocked an eyebrow at her. “I gather she wasn’t.” “More than likely she blames me for breaking up your engagement.” “Well, let’s give her something more to think about. I see you finished your dinner.” Taking her empty plate, he set it on the table, then offered his arm. “If you’ll accompany me to the ballroom, Mademoiselle, I’d like to claim the first dance.” She melted into his arms. It was a waltz and to her surprise, he was an excellent dancer, as if he’d had 100

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ballroom dancing lessons. After the waltz, the band played a more modern piece, but it was a slow, romantic one. Pulling her tightly against his chest, she rested her face against him. Both of his arms were around her now. Is it my imagination or is he holding me really close? His hips were against her body, rotating gently. She could feel the bulge at his crotch press against her. It excited her to no end. When his head rested on top of hers, she almost lost her footing. Closing her eyes, she allowed herself to enjoy the moment, to feel safe and warm in his arms and almost loved. Then a sudden thought occurred to her. Is he doing this to make Rachel jealous? Is he still in love with that plastic doll? The idea he could be using her for that purpose, wrenched at her heart. The next few hours flew by in a haze. Sam danced with her, Johnny, then Chad again and time and again she found herself twirled onto the dance floor until she thought her feet would fall off. Finally, the band took a break. “If you’ll excuse me, Chad, I need to go freshen up a bit,” she told him, almost reluctantly leaving his side, but she needed to take her shoes off and change them for a pair of flats she’d brought along. “I’ll be waiting for you,” he said and to her surprise bent down and kissed her on the cheek. From the corner of her eye she could see the women whispering, the glances thrown her way, many of them filled with envy. And one filled with utter hatred. Rachel’s gaze was glued to her. If eyes could have spat venom, Topaz would be dead right there and then. At the bottom of the stairs, she took off her shoes. 101

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Lifting the skirt, she hurried up to her room. Once there, she took off her pantyhose and washed her feet with cold water. It helped to relieve the ache. She’d no sooner dried her feet and put on her flats when she heard the bedroom door open and close. “Is that you, Corky?” she called out. “No, it’s me. You sure as hell didn’t waste any time, did you now, you bitch!” “Rachel, what are you doing here? I don’t appreciate this invasion of my privacy. Please leave.” “Oh my, the little lady to the end.” “I don’t know why you’re so angry, Rachel. You broke off the engagement with Chad.” “That’s when I thought he’d have nothing. Then I found out that if you die, he’ll have it all anyway. So, I changed my mind. I want him back.” “What if he doesn’t want you back?” “Shut up, bitch. Once you’re gone, he’ll want me.” The last thing Topaz saw was Rachel coming toward her with something in her hand. She backed away a bit, but the wall was behind her and still the woman came at her. “What are you—” Something jabbed into her neck. Her nursing experience told her right away that she’d been injected with something. Rachel’s face swam before her eyes just before she slumped to the floor. **** Rachel looked down at the crumpled figure. She kicked the dress aside and left the bathroom to go to the balcony. Opening the doors, she leaned over and whistled. “It’s done. You can come get her,” she hissed 102

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down to two shadowy figures waiting below. She rushed back into the room and found a carryon suitcase and a shoulder bag. Quick as a flash, she gathered whatever belongings of Topaz she could find and threw them into the bags, hardly paying attention to the two men who climbed over the balcony railing and came into the room. Scanning the room one more time, Rachel took an envelope out of her pocket and set it on the nightstand. Then she turned to check on the men. They had bound and gagged Topaz and one of the men had slung her over his shoulder. “Won’t be easy going down that ladder,” he said with a scowl. “You’ll manage. She’s a skinny little thing. Shouldn’t weigh much. And it’s not far down. You know what to do. When the job is done, bring me one of her fingers and I’ll pay you the other half. And get rid of the bags. Burn them or something, bury them. I don’t care.” Rachel waited until the men were back on solid ground, the ladder gone and they had disappeared into the darkness. Quickly, she hurried out of the room and went downstairs to seek out Chad. She’d get him back. With the bitch out of the way, he’d inherit everything and she’d have everything she ever wanted. “Hi, darling. You haven’t danced with me once tonight,” Rachel cooed, pouting. Chad’s face became a mask. “I don’t want to dance with you. Have you seen Topaz?” “Why no. Last time I saw her she was going upstairs.” “She’s been gone a while. I hope she’s okay,” Chad 103

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muttered. “Don’t be silly. She’s probably powdering her nose. Come on, Chad honey, dance with me?” she wheedled. “Not on your life,” Chad retorted through tight lips. “Go find someone else. Plenty of single men for you to dig your claws into.” More than an hour had passed. Sam, Johnny and Chad were all wondering about Topaz and why she hadn’t returned. “She seemed to be having a good time,” Johnny said. “It’s almost midnight. Time for the Bible reading, singing and gift opening.” “Yes. I thought she was enjoying herself,” Sam agreed. “Maybe she fell asleep?” Chad suggested. “I’ll ask Corky to go and check on her.” He left the ballroom followed by his brothers. Corky returned to the kitchen fast with a worried look on her face. “She’s not in her room. There was a note on the nightstand with your name on it, Master Chad.” Chad tore the envelope open and took out a folded sheet of paper. He unfolded it and scanned it quickly. Frowning, he looked at Sam and Johnny, then at Corky. “This doesn’t seem right. Did anyone see Topaz leave the house?” “What does it say, Chad?” Johnny asked. Without a word, Chad handed it to Johnny. Sam read it over Johnny’s shoulder as Johnny read aloud. Dear Chad, Thank you for the lovely party. I’ve decided I don’t 104

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fit in here. I’ll contact Terry and have him make arrangements to give the estate back to you and your brothers. It wasn’t really fair in the first place. Topaz Johnny crumpled the note into a ball and threw it on the kitchen table. “None of this sounds right. First of all, why would she leave at this time of the night without saying goodbye to any of us? She’s not chickenshit. She’d tell us herself.” “Exactly. And someone would have seen her leave. And how did she leave? She has no car. Walking? Not likely. It’s fishy. I’m going up to her room to check things out.” He was about to go upstairs when Rachel sidled up to him. “Chad, darling, I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Dance the last one with me? Please?” she wheedled. “Have you seen Topaz?” he asked, ignoring her question. “Oh, yes. She left a little while ago pulling a small suitcase behind her and carrying a shoulder bag.” “What the hell did you say to her to make her leave?” Chad shouted. “Why, nothing, darling. Whatever makes you think I said anything?” “It’s near midnight for God’s sake. How did she leave?” “There was a car waiting for her. I saw it.” “You lying bitch!” Johnny yelled. Chad bounded up the stairs to Topaz’s room. He threw open the door and opened closet doors and 105

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drawers. All were empty of Topaz’s belongings. It was as if she’d never been there. He checked the bathroom and found nothing there. Just as he was leaving the bathroom, he spotted something in the wastebasket. “A hypodermic,” he muttered. “She’s not a druggie or diabetic.” Kidnapped, was the first thought that came to mind. He ran out of the room locking the door behind him with the master key and then down the stairs. “Well?” Sam said. “Find anything?” “Yes. Corky, lock the front doors. Don’t let anyone leave. I’m going to call the sheriff.” He looked for Rachel, but she was gone. “Where is Rachel?” “She went back to the ballroom for the last dance,” Johnny said. “She’s got something to do with this, I guarantee. Why would it be her especially who saw Topaz leave?” “What did you find, Chad?” Sam asked softly, but Chad was already on his cell phone to the sheriff. Guests started to pile into the entrance hall curious why the usual tradition of the Bible reading was delayed, only to be directed back to the ballroom by Corky. Annoyed mutters sounded. Sam took charge and quickly headed for the leader of the band. The musicians were just starting to pack up their instruments. “I’ll pay you double if you’ll play a while longer,” he offered. “Man, it’s Christmas. Our families are waiting for us,” the young man said. “I’ll triple it then.” “That’s an offer I can’t afford to refuse. Okay, fellas, we play a while longer. About how long?” he asked Sam. 106

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“I don’t know. An hour, maybe two. We’ll make it worth your while.” When the music started, some of the guests settled down and started to dance again. They realized something was up and the whispers continued. Some stood in little groups sending furtive glances to the entrance hall. When the sheriff arrived with two deputies, the murmurs grew louder. The guests knew something serious was up. Rachel said in a loud voice, “Maybe there’s been a theft and we’re all suspects. How exciting!” her laughter was shrill. The sheriff motioned the band to stop playing. He took the microphone off the stand and spoke to the guests. “Evening, all. I need to ask y’all some questions. Did anyone here see Topaz leave the house?” “I did,” Rachel said. “She left with what looked like her luggage. There was a gray car waiting for her.” “Did anyone else see her leave or see the car?” Not one of the other guests spoke. They looked at each other, at their neighbors, shook their heads and then riveted their eyes on Rachel who fidgeted uncomfortably.” “Rachel, what do you know about this?” her father asked loudly. “Come on, girl, speak up. We all want to go home.” “Nothing. Just that I saw her leave. That’s all,” she answered in a snippy tone. “Alright, young lady. Come with me. I’d like to ask you some questions,” the sheriff said. “Sheriff, I hope this won’t take long,” Rachel’s 107

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father said. “We need to go home. Christmas morning comes early at our house.” The sheriff didn’t answer him as he escorted Rachel out of the ballroom to Chad’s study. “Sit down, Rachel.” He waited until she was seated, then paced the floor. “Did Topaz say anything to you at all this evening?” “Yes. She told me she didn’t fit in here and couldn’t wait to go home.” “Don’t you think it’s odd she’d go home near midnight on Christmas Eve?” “Maybe she planned it that way.” Chad was listening to the conversation just outside the door. If Topaz had really left, she’d have booked a flight. Should I go to the airport? Are there even flights this late at night? It would take him a couple of hours to get there. All wasted time. He was sure Topaz had been kidnapped. The hypodermic was a telltale sign. But why? For ransom? Will we get a call soon demanding money?

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Chapter Eight woke up with her head pounding and her Topaz mouth dry. She lay on a cot, her hands tied behind her back and her ankles bound. As her eyes became accustomed to the dim light from a couple of candles, she saw two men sitting at a little table, a half-empty bottle of whiskey stood on the table and an ashtray filled to the brim. They were playing cards and talking. “She’s not paying us enough,” one of the men said. “Not enough to face a murder charge if we’re caught,” the other agreed. “And I’m not prepared to chop off one of her pretty little fingers either!” “We could go for a hefty ransom instead, Jake.” “What if Rachel opens her mouth? Don’t forget, she’s got the goods on us.” “I’d rather go to jail for rustling than for murder. And she won’t say nuthin’ because her old man is involved in the rustling. She’s the one who masterminded this kidnapping. If she blabs, she’ll go to jail right along with us and so will he, because I sure as hell wouldn’t keep my mouth shut.” “I told you from the start it was a stupid deal. And she can tip off the sheriff without him knowing who 109

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gave him the tip.” “She wouldn’t do that either because she’d be scared shitless we’ll talk. We know too much. We never should have gotten involved with that family. First the rustling, now this. Her daddy is rich. Why did he need us to steal that cattle from the Douglas ranch? And how did she find out about it?” “I don’t know how she knows about the rustling. As for the old man, maybe he’s not as rich as he pretends.” “So what are we going to do with the girl?” Topaz closed her eyes and tried to shift carefully, but the cot creaked. She heard one of the chairs move and lay as still as she could. Heavy footsteps came toward her. “She’s still out cold, but shouldn’t be too long before she comes out of it. We can’t afford to have her see us. Pretty little thing. Wonder what’s under that frilly affair,” the gruff voice said and she felt him yank at the neckline of the dress. Cold air hit her braless breasts. Mortified, she tried not to move. If only her hands were loose and her feet. She’d give them a run for their money. “Don’t add rape to the list,” the other man said loudly. “How’s anyone gonna know if she’s out cold? “Jake, put that hungry cock of yours back in your pants. Leave her alone.” “I can look, can’t I?” The man called Jake lifted her skirts. She felt his breath on her belly and then his fingers as he pulled her panties down. Next, she heard the fragile fabric rip. It sounded like he was cutting the dress with a knife. The 110

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beautiful dress, her Gone with the Wind dress. Is this to be my fate? To be raped by a foul, stinking, rustling cowboy turned kidnapper? His hands were all over her, squeezing her breasts, his fingers between her legs. Lips sucked a nipple. Inwardly, she cried. Desperately trying not to move, to pretend she was still unconscious, she lay perfectly still, hoping the other man would interfere. And he did. “Jake, get the hell away from her. Leave her alone.” “Who do you think you are telling me what to do?” “We’re in enough shit as it is. Don’t add any more to it.” The hands left her body and she heard Jake step away from the cot. His breathing was heavy. She could smell his whiskey-soaked breath from where she lay, mingled with the stench of unwashed male. Then she heard flip-flop noises and she knew what he was doing. Without opening her eyes, she could feel his boring into her, drinking in the naked sight of her while he masturbated. Her stomach churned. Sour bile welled up into her mouth. “You fuckin’ sick bastard!” the nameless one said. The heavy breathing slowed and Jake’s footsteps told her he went back to the table. The chair creaked as he sat. Carefully, she looked through slitted eyelids and saw them resume their card game and taking turns drinking from the bottle of booze. “You made up your mind what we’re gonna do with her?” Jake asked. “Dunno. I’m not into murder. Maybe we should just leave her here and bugger off. No one will find her here in this forsaken shack. She’ll die from exposure anyway 111

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and by the time they find her body, we’ll be long gone. We’ve got the twenty-five grand Rachel paid us already. I don’t know about you, but I’m gonna hit the border into Mexico. Now!” Topaz saw him stand, shove his chair back and taking one last swig from the bottle, he stepped away from the table. After putting his hat on, he strode toward the door. “You’re probably fuckin’ right, as always. I’m with you,” Jake said. He, too, picked up his hat, put it on, but instead of going to the door, he swiveled toward her. Quickly, she closed her eyes. “Fuckin’ shame. That’s one piece of pussy I’ll dream about for the rest of my life,” he muttered. “Forget about her. Plenty of that where we’re going and willing. Especially now that we have money to burn.” “We could take her with us.” Jake hesitated. “Are you out of your fuckin’ mind?” “If we leave her here and she dies, we’ll have a kidnap and murder charge slapped against us anyway.” “And how are they gonna know it was us? Rachel won’t talk. She wouldn’t fuckin’ dare. Let’s go.” They scampered out of the shack and Topaz finally dared to open her eyes properly. She heard a horse whinny, the sound of hooves as they rode away. She waited until the sound of the riders faded, then wiggled and wrenched her wrists to try and get loose, but they were bound so tight the cord cut into them. The candles sent eerie shadows over the ramshackle walls. She appeared to be in a small one-room shed. There were no windows, just a creaky, crooked old 112

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door that they’d left open. Cold night air poured inside causing her to shiver uncontrollably. And not just from the cold. The fear she’d felt finally surfaced. A hot tear trickled down her cheek. The gag stifled her. Swinging her head from side to side, she managed to loosen it a little. How the hell am I going to get out of here? And where am I? She hoped that by now the Douglas men had discovered her disappearance and were out looking for her. Or maybe they are just happy I’m out of their lives? That thought was devastating. She’d thought for sure that Chad was softening toward her. Even if she managed to loosen her bonds, it’d be too dangerous for her to go out there with no horse, especially not knowing where she was and totally unfamiliar with the territory. Somehow, she wriggled enough to sit up with her back against the wall. If she could get off the bed, knock over the table, she could try and burn the cords off her wrists. There were only two stubs left. The candles would soon burn out and then there was the danger they’d go out when falling to the floor. She scanned the shack for something, anything she could use to help. The empty bottle. Will it break if I knock over the table? Maybe. Maybe not. It wasn’t a stone floor. While she was thinking, she kept wriggling her wrists and thought the cord had loosened a little. It didn’t hurt as much. By now, she was freezing cold. The days might be beautiful in Texas, but the nights were frosty. If she couldn’t escape from her bonds, she’d start suffering hypothermia. Her teeth chattered, she shook uncontrollably. Chad, Sam, Johnny, where 113

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are you? If you’re looking for me, you could be looking for a needle in a haystack. Did you call the police? Do you even know I’m missing? Maybe you didn’t notice that I’m not at the party anymore. Maybe no one will realize till tomorrow morning. Her thoughts were chaotic. She kept on wriggling and finally threw herself off the cot. The fall knocked the breath from her for a second, the torn dress hampering her movements as she tried to roll toward the table. It was a rickety old table. Can I knock it over? Lying on her back, she kicked the table’s leg with all her might. Nothing happened except it shifted a few feet. She continued to kick at the leg until finally, a candle fell to the floor. But it was as she’d feared, the flame went out as soon as it hit the floor. The next time she kicked, the bottle fell off. It didn’t break. Desperately, she scanned the floor for something, anything that could cut through the cord. With only one fast-fading little candle flame, it was quite dark. Rolling along the wooden floor, chafing her breasts, her legs and belly, she suddenly spotted an old saw blade. It was quite small and rusty, but maybe it could work. Working her way toward it, she managed to grasp it with her numb fingers and wriggled it up between her wrists. She couldn’t apply much pressure, but she managed to move the blade up and down. It was only her adrenaline, her determination to free herself that kept her from sinking into hypothermia. She had no idea how long she moved the blade back and forth, but finally she felt it cut through something. The cord slackened. She wriggled her wrists but it wasn’t 114

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enough. Manipulating the small blade was hard. She managed to get it situated again and hacked at the cord. Her fingers were so numb from cold, she could barely feel the blade, but she doggedly continued. She hissed as the blade moved and she hacked her wrist. Blood seeped onto her hand. She could feel its sticky warmth. Suddenly, the blade cut the last threads and her hands were free. Using her hands, she sat up and with shaking fingers untied the gag. Gulping in big breaths of air, she struggled with the knots of the cord that bound her ankles. One of her shoes was missing. She kicked off the other one. They would hardly keep her feet warm anyway. Survival instinct took over. Her legs shaky at first, she stood, took off what remained of her panties, threw them on the cot and looked around the shack again. This time she saw a potbelly stove in the corner. Wood, she needed fuel for it. Grabbing a chair, she lifted it and brought it down on the floor as hard as she could. Like the shack, the chair was old and rickety and it broke easily, its seat shattering into small planks. There were dried leaves all over the floor and bits of straw. She scooped as much of it as she could. At first, the little door of the stove wouldn’t open until she angrily yanked it hard and it gave way. She stuffed the leaves and straw inside. Paper, she needed something, anything. There was a pile of garbage just behind the cot. Gingerly, her hands and fingers stiff from cold, she sifted through the mess of old pots crusted with moldy leftover food, old metal plates in the same condition, some tin cups and it was just her luck, she found a 115

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broken cardboard box. It was brittle so it was easy to tear into pieces. After stuffing that into the stove as well, she picked up the fallen candle stub and lit it from the still-burning stub on the table. The wood from the chair hardly fit inside the stove. She had no way of breaking it, so all she could do was stand the planks up straight and hoped it would burn. Fuel. Glancing at the bottle on the floor she noticed there was still a bit of whiskey left in it. She poured a little on the pile of leaves and cardboard, then held the candle close to it. The little pile burst into flame. Holding her cold hands in front of the open door, she felt them slowly warm. Praying desperately that the wood would burn, she waited anxiously. And it did. It wouldn’t heat up the shack, not with a broken door that let in the cold, but if she stayed close to it, she’d at least survive the night. As her hands slowly stopped shaking, she untied the leftover cords from her wrists and saw the nasty cut on her right wrist. Picking up the bottle, she poured a little onto the cut. It stung like hell, but she hoped it would stop any infection. At least she’d had a tetanus shot not long ago when she’d stepped on a rusty nail. Slowly, the warmth from the stove warmed her. Her wrists and ankles were sore from the tight cords. Massaging them, she gathered her thoughts. She needed to cover her naked body. After taking off the remains of her gown, she looked at it in the dim light emanating from the fire in the stove. The skirt was very full. The dress was ruined, so it didn’t matter if she tore it apart. Not that she’d ever want to wear it again. Picking up the blade, she sawed at the waist until she 116

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could rip the skirt from the bodice. Then she wound the long length of fabric around her body like a toga. And all she could do now was to wait till daylight and work to keep the fire going. Now that she had warmed up, she felt terribly drowsy and fought against it. She couldn’t afford to fall asleep. The fire would go out and she’d be vulnerable to the elements. Tears welled and though she fought to stop herself from crying, she couldn’t help it. The evening had been so wonderful and the extra attention Chad paid her had warmed her heart and soul to him even more. She knew for sure now that she’d fallen in love with the Douglas men, each one of them and that for the life of her, she wouldn’t be able to pick one over the other. How can a woman fall in love with three men all at once? How do they feel about me? Was it just desire that fueled them? Or did they, in the short time she’d been on the ranch, develop feelings for her, too? For the first time, she looked at her watch and was glad they hadn’t stolen it. Probably because it wasn’t an expensive watch. At least two more hours to daylight. Once the sun rose, she could go outside and see where she was and maybe try and make her way back to civilization. “Chad, help me,” she whispered and then repeated it over and over in her mind, conjuring up his face, hoping he’d somehow sense her plea. After she pushed the wood further into the stove and looked around for more items she could use for fuel, she lay on the floor in front of it and pulling the cloth around her while she curled into a fetal position. 117

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Chapter Nine guests, after receiving their gifts, were finally Theallowed to leave the Douglas ranch, except for Rachel and her parents. Some of them were disgruntled, though still intrigued by the sudden adventure of the evening. When Chad talked to the sheriff, he was told they’d detained only a few suspects, one of them Rachel. “Why on earth would you suspect her?” he asked. “Although I must admit I thought she might have something to do with it, but only to make Topaz leave.” “I found it curious Rachel quoted the same words supposedly spoken by Topaz to her that were written in the note. How would Rachel know what is in the note? Now, I’m not supposed to discuss this stuff with you, Chad, so keep your mouth shut.” “If I can leave the house, I’m going to do some investigation of my own.” “Fine. If you find anything, tell me?” Chad left the study and returned to the kitchen where an anxious Johnny was pacing the floor and Sam sat at the table drumming his fingers. Corky was busy at the sink. Normally, she would have retired for the evening, 118

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but he knew she was worried about Topaz as well. “Guys, I’m going outside to see if I can find any clues. The sheriff said it was okay. Want to help?” “Yes, of course,” Johnny said eagerly. “Yup,” Sam agreed. “Good. Get some flashlights then and let’s scout the grounds.” The first place Chad thought to look was in front of the house where the cars usually pulled up. He didn’t find anything. He walked to below the balcony of the master bedroom and shone his flashlight up and around. Nothing. Until he aimed the beam of the flashlight at the ground and saw telltale marks of hooves on the lawn from more than one horse. Not only that, but the beam of light also picked up a small black object. He picked it up. It was a shoe, a flat shoe. One that would fit Topaz’s tiny feet. A dart of pain shot through his heart. What did they do to her? He turned off the flashlight and ran back into the house. The sheriff was still in the study with Rachel and her parents. “Sheriff, I need to talk to you. Now.” “Keep an eye on them,” the sheriff told his deputy. He followed Chad out of the study and closed door behind him. “What’s up? Find something?” Chad pulled the shoe from his pocket. “Her shoe, just below her balcony and there are hoof marks on the grass. Whoever kidnapped her, took her out of here on horseback. I’m going out there to look for her. You can join me, or you can stay here, but I can’t just sit here and do nothing.” “Chad, you need to calm down. If this is for ransom, you could be putting her life in danger if you take this 119

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on by yourself.” “I’ll be careful. Are you coming along?” “Yes. I’ll leave a deputy to keep an eye on the Moore family.” “Fine. I’ll go and get my brothers.” The sheriff went back into the study. “Zack, you come with me. Harry, you stay here and keep an eye on these people. They’re not to leave, you understand?” Chad heard him say as he strode off to find Sam and Johnny. They were still combing the gardens. “Johnny, Sam!” Chad called out to them. “What’s up, bro? Find something?” Sam said when he caught up with Chad, followed by Johnny. “Yes. I found Topaz’s shoe below her balcony and the grass was trampled. Horses and I suspect more than one. Whoever took her is on horseback. I’m going to look for her. The sheriff is coming with me.” “I’m coming,” Sam said. “Count me in,” Johnny followed. “Good. Let’s get going. Too much time has been wasted already.” “We really need someone who can track. Want me to get Jimmy Whitewater? Indians are good at tracking. Jimmy has a good track record.” “Good thought, Johnny, but hurry up.” The sheriff and one deputy joined them and Johnny soon returned accompanied by Jimmy. “Master Chad, I’ll do anything to help. Ms Topaz has found her way into our hearts the way she was at our party today.” “Okay, Jimmy. We need to start below her balcony. That’s where I found hoof marks in the grass.” 120

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“I hope Ms Topaz is gonna be okay,” Jimmy muttered as he rode off toward the balcony. As do I, Chad thought. Dammit, I know my brothers have fallen in love with her and now I think I have, too. Or maybe I have been all along and couldn’t admit to it or was too bull headed to see it happening. Father was right. “And that I am, son.” Chad startled at the cloud of cigar smoke that surrounded him suddenly and the voice resonating in his ears. “Dammit, Father, not now,” he said very softly from between clenched lips. “I can help you. She’s in a shack in the mountains near the Mexican border.” “And how the hell would you know?” “I’ve been keeping an eye on my adopted daughter. Just follow my lead. Let Jimmy guide you. He knows what he’s doing. He’s an old hand at this.” “What are you saying, Chad?” Sam asked. “You’re mumbling.” “Never mind. You wouldn’t believe me if I told you. Just follow Jimmy. He knows what he’s doing.” He could have sworn he heard Topaz’s voice. “Help me, Chad, please.” Is it my imagination? He had to admit to himself she’d left an imprint on his soul, his heart. How is it possible? He’d thought himself still in love with Rachel, yet the feelings he felt for Topaz were so different, so much stronger, so fierce. He wanted to love her, protect her, be her strong arm, to hold her in his arms and have her be there forever. He hardened his heart against these feelings remembering how she came to be at the ranch. But almost as soon as the thoughts 121

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entered his mind, he erased them just as fast. After all, she was an innocent victim in all of this—his father leaving her his estate, which she didn’t even know he had. No way in fucking hell did he want her blood on his hands. The inheritance had caused all this and it was up to him to save her from whoever had done this to her, although he was almost sure of Rachel’s hand in it. But that’s as far as it would go. Any other feelings he had for her he had to bury. He was still determined to fight the will and it would cause nothing but hard feelings between them. Things could get nasty in court. And who knows, the PI could still come up with something they could use against her. “The tracks lead to the mountains, boss.” “Thanks, Jimmy. Anyone know of a shack in those mountains?” Chad asked, looking at his brothers and the other men. “There’s a couple of old shacks in those mountains, boss. Why do you ask?” “Just a psychic hunch.” And a psychic hunch it was. A hunch his dead father had just told him. But how can I tell the men that? “A shack in the mountains near the Mexican border,” he told them gruffly. He noticed Jimmy looking at him curiously. It was as if the old Indian farmhand knew. “There are a few there. That’s a couple of hours’ ride, boss.” “Fine. Let’s get moving.” After riding for nearly two hours, Jimmy fell back and rode next to Chad. “Boss, you’re right. The tracks all lead to an old shack I know of.” “When I get my hands on the bastards who—” 122

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“Boss, have you considered she may not be alive?” “Why would they want to kill her? If this is for ransom—” “Boss, no fuckin’ ransom. Everyone knows she’s the rich one now. Unless she dies. Then you and your brothers inherit everything. You know news spreads fast around these parts. This kidnapping was organized by someone who wants her out of the way. Just believe my gut instincts.” Chad felt a knife twist in his heart. Picturing her, that beautiful innocent face, her gorgeous body and then a picture of her dead, suffocated, covered with blood entered his mind and a shudder shook him. “She’s alive, son, but you need to hurry before she takes off into the forest and succumbs to the cold.” “Who?” Chad asked softly. “Who did this to her?” “The answer to that is in your heart. You already know. The men involved left her in the shack to die. But she’s a strong one, my Topaz. Now hurry. And mind my words, you treat that little gal with…” His father’s voice faded. Even though the voice had drifted off and almost drowned in the sound of the horses’ clip clop, Chad didn’t miss those last words. Yes, he’d ease off. Hadn’t I already? But that didn’t mean he could give in to his growing feelings, the insane desire for her that now ate at him with savage intent. Johnny rode up beside him. “I’m afraid for her, Chad. What if we’re too late?” “She’s alright.” “How can you know that? It’s been hours. They could have done anything to her by now. Jimmy says it wouldn’t be for ransom.” 123

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“I just have a feeling she’s okay.” How can I tell my brothers about Father talking to me? Both his brothers would declare him crazy. Only people with mental conditions heard voices. Vaguely he remembered Corky sometimes talking about the voices of the dead. Corky would believe him, he was sure of that. If they killed her, surely they’d bury her? His father said she was in a shack—that meant she was still alive. Or did it? Vaguely the thought entered his mind that if she were dead, the estate would automatically go to the three of them. He squashed that thought right away. He didn’t want the estate that way. I’ll fight for it, yes, but to inherit it at the cost of her young life? No. A shiver ran down his spine that he could have even vaguely considered that thought. No, he wanted her back in one piece. He needed to feel her in his arms, to smell her sweet breath, to kiss those delectable lips. What if they raped her? A rage now settled in his gut, started to eat at him, a rage so fierce he was ready to kill, to rip the kidnappers apart piece by piece. The thought of anyone touching her, of any man defiling her, made him see red. He spurred his horse on and yelled at Jimmy. “How much farther, Jim?” “We’re getting close, Boss. It’s just beyond this hill.” “I smell smoke,” Sam said, joining Johnny and Chad. “Yes, so do I.” Chad sniffed. “Smells like a wood fire.” “If I remember right, the shack we’re heading for has an old wood stove, Boss.” “That means whoever kidnapped her is still there.” 124

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They reached the top of the hill and waited for the others. When all were gathered, they planned. “The shack is just beyond these trees, down a bit in a valley,” Jimmy said. “Okay. We’ll have to approach with caution and on foot. We’ll leave the horses,” Chad said. Once they approached a clearing, the shack was clearly visible. Smoke spiraled from the old chimney. “I don’t see any horses,” Sam said. “They could be behind the shack, Boss.” Jimmy got off his horse and tied the reins to a tree branch. The others did the same. “There’s, also, no light. Would they be sitting in the dark? I’ll go first,” Chad said. “Cover me.” The men took their positions, guns ready. Chad ran to the far side of the cabin. Stealthily, he walked to the back of the cabin and saw no horses there. Quickly, he ran back to the front of the cabin and waved at the men that all was clear. Not waiting for them, he ran to the broken door and peered inside. It was dark inside the shack. He saw no sign of anyone. Are we too late? Not hesitating, he ran to the door and inside. An almost burnt-out candle still flickered on the table beside an overflowing ashtray. Chad saw no sign of anyone or Topaz. Then he heard a soft moan coming from the far corner. Peering into the dark, he saw the stove now and burning wood sticking out of it. Near the stove was what looked like a pile of rags, but as he rushed over, he saw the rags were the color of Topaz’s dress she had worn last night. Movement. He bent down and pulled the material away to expose a naked, sleeping Topaz. He shoved the wood into the stove. It could have fallen 125

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out at any moment and set her on fire. “Chad?” Johnny and Sam rushed to Chad’s side. “My God, is she alright?” “Get blankets,” Chad told them. They rushed outside to get the blankets that were always rolled up into a neat roll on their horses and hurried back with them. Chad covered Topaz with the blankets, then carefully draped them around her. She didn’t stir. “We need more wood. She’s freezing cold. Before we take her back to the house, she needs to be warmed up. Anyone have some whisky?” Sam asked. “I’ve got some.” Jimmy produced a small silver flask from his pocket. Chad quickly opened it and poured some between her blue lips. She coughed automatically but swallowed it. Sam was busy stoking the fire with the wood Johnny had gathered from outside. The Sheriff and deputy searched the cabin for clues but found nothing except the empty bottle and cigarette butts. When he shone his flashlight on the bare cot, he spotted Topaz’s torn panties. “Oh my God,” he muttered under his breath, but Chad heard him. “What?” The Sheriff picked up the panties with his gloved hand and held them up for Chad to see. Raped! The bastards had raped her. Hatred now burned in his gut, hatred and revenge, the urge to kill. He was torn between staying with Topaz and going after the bastards. “They’re on horseback. They’ve left a trail,” he said through tight lips. “Right. I’m going after them.” 126

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“I’m with you,” Sam said and looked at Chad and Johnny. “Someone has to stay with her,” Chad said. “I’ll stay with her if you want to go.” Johnny sat on the floor beside Topaz. “I’ll look after her. There are enough dead branches here now for me to keep the fire going.” “Okay. They’ve probably got a good head start on us and if they’ve crossed into Mexico, we might as well forget it. But we can try,” the sheriff said. “We need to get going. Jimmy?” “Yeah. I’m coming.” Johnny, now left alone with Topaz, tucked the blankets tighter around her. He suspected she was in shock and felt her pulse. Her heartbeat was steady. Her lips still had a blue tint to them and her skin was very pale. Picking her up very carefully, he cradled her in his arms and held her tightly against his own warm body. Ever so gently, he stroked her forehead, her hair. “Fair maiden mine,” he said softly. “You’re safe now. We won’t let anything else happen to you, I promise. Do you know I’ve fallen in love with you? I dare to say it while you’re sleeping, but I so want to tell you. You’re my every dream come true, my goddess come to life. Oh, my love, what did they do to you?” Undoing his jacket, he wrapped it around her as well and continued to cradle her. After what seemed like hours, he saw some color return to her lips and her skin returned to its natural honey color, but she still didn’t wake up. With his free arm, he continued to load the stove and stoked it. Even with the broken door, the shack was becoming toasty warm now. He wondered if his 127

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brothers, Jimmy, the sheriff and his men would catch up to the kidnappers and how long it would be before they returned. Topaz stirred in his arms and moaned. “Topaz? Honey? Are you awake?” he said softly while stroking her cheek. Her skin felt warm now. But although she stirred and made some sounds, she didn’t wake. Johnny was just glad she was alive. He’d help her get over the rape, would help her to deal with it. He made up his mind right then and there that as soon as she was well, he’d ask her to marry him. How will Chad and Sam react to this? Sam liked Topaz, Johnny had felt that from the start. He might even be in love with her, too. Chad was a different matter. Although it seemed that Chad’s heart had softened toward her. But will that remain if he learns that I want to marry her? Or will it escalate into a rift between us, more anger, more hatred…I’m thinking all this, making plans, but will Topaz even accept my proposal? Does she have feelings for me?

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Chapter Ten struggled to wake up. She felt sore all over, Topaz her neck hurt, she had the headache from hell. And this had to be the worst nightmare she’d ever had in her life. She tried to turn around, but something held her tight. Stiffening, she realized her bonds were arms and her head wasn’t on a pillow but against a solid chest. She heard a heartbeat, then a soft male voice. “Sssh, everything’s alright, honey. You’re safe now.” Johnny. The arms belonged to Johnny and the heartbeat was his. Opening her eyes, she realized she hadn’t had a nightmare and it was all very real. Vividly the events of the night came back to her and she shuddered. “How did you—” “Find you? Once we found your shoe and saw the horse tracks, it wasn’t difficult. We just hoped and prayed we’d be in time before they—” “Killed me?” “Yes. We were afraid of that. We didn’t think the kidnapping was for ransom.” “Rachel. She did it. She injected me and after that, I don’t know what happened until I woke up here. There 129

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were two men, Jake and I don’t know the name of the other one. Uncouth looking men, dirty, smelly.” “Hopefully the others will catch them before they hit the border.” “Who?” “The sheriff and his deputy, Jimmy, Chad and Sam.” “Those men have guns, Johnny. And they seem quite ruthless, although they didn’t want to kill me. They got twenty-five thousand up front and were supposed to get the other half after they brought Rachel proof of my death. They decided it wasn’t worth getting a murder rap and to escape to Mexico.” “Did they hurt you, honey? I mean, did they—” “They weren’t very gentle. And no, I wasn’t raped though the one called Jake was getting ready to. The other man stopped him. All that was hurt was my dignity when he ripped my clothes off and his grimy hands touched me.” She heard the sigh of relief escape Johnny’s lips. “Did you think they—” “Yes. We found your torn panties.” “It was close. I’m so glad you all found me. I haven’t got a clue where I am and didn’t know how I was going to get home. Especially without clothes. And it got so cold.” “You were smart in starting a fire in the stove.” “It was hard. I had to try and free myself first. My wrists and ankles were bound. By the time I cut through them, my fingers were so cold I couldn’t feel them anymore. I was afraid to go outside for wood so I broke the chairs.” “You’re the bravest woman I’ve ever known. Here you are telling me the whole story calmly. Any other 130

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woman would have been a sobbing heap of misery.” “That’s just not me. Hold me tighter, Johnny? I feel so safe in your arms.” And she did. As he stroked her hair tenderly, she knew she adored him, wanted him, needed him. Not just now but always. He was so sweet, so lovingly gentle, so kind. How can I help but love him? “The men have been gone a long time. It’s almost dawn,” Johnny said. “Do you know they were also involved in the cattle rustling? I pretended to be asleep and they got drunk and talked a lot. Rachel was part of that, too, or knew about it. I wonder why I slept so long. I really tried to stay awake.” “You probably had a mild case of hypothermia. It’s very cold out, around freezing.” “I’m toasty warm now. Matter of fact, almost too warm.” And not just from the stove either. Johnny was setting her blood on fire big time. Reaching up, she pulled his head down and kissed him. “Thank you, Johnny, for saving me.” “It wasn’t just me,” he whispered against her lips. “I’ll thank the others when they return.” “The same as this?” His question caused her cheeks to flame. Thinking about Sam and Chad, yes, she wanted to kiss them, too, to thank them, hug them and have them hold her tight, just like Johnny was doing right now. But right now, she was with Johnny, alone with him. He started to talk again, but she silenced his words by pressing her lips against his. Within seconds, he returned her kiss. Gently at first, 131

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then his passion took over and he kissed her with all the hunger that was pent up within him. Sticking her tongue into his mouth, she explored eagerly, tasting his manliness and when he in turn explored her mouth, she sighed. He pulled back, then kissed her on the forehead. “My fair maiden, that’s what you are. My goddess. You know how much I love you?” he whispered near her ear. “I love you, too, Johnny,” she said softly. He rained butterfly kisses down her nose, on her lips, her chin, then pulled back to look into her eyes. She saw the love in his, the tenderness and felt overwhelmed with all the emotions that attacked her. “Topaz, will you—” She stopped him before he could ask the question she knew he was going to ask. “Ssssh, we need to keep this a secret for now. I have a lot of feelings to sort out. You see, Johnny, I love your brothers, too.” Was that a fleeting jealousy I read in his telltale eyes? A little bit of anger? Disappointment? “Don’t be upset, my love. I can’t help myself. The three of you are so alike, yet unalike and I appreciate the good and the bad in all three of you. I need to sort out those feelings.” “You’re not sure of your love for me?” “Yes, I am.” “Then why—” “Hush, Johnny, my sweet cowboy. Time. I need it to sort out all these emotions causing havoc in my heart.” “But you may choose Sam or Chad instead. Topaz smiled. He almost sounded like a sulky little boy. “Neither Sam or Chad have declared any feelings 132

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for me, so right now, there is nothing to choose. I just need to sort out my own.” And to show him how much she loved him, she kissed him again until she felt him respond. The jacket and blankets fell to the ground as she turned to lie on top of him. She was half naked, but she didn’t care. All she wanted right now was his arms around her and his lips on hers. He kissed her fiercely, almost as if to make sure she loved him in return. And she did. But she couldn’t rule out her feelings for Chad and Sam. Those had to be dealt with before she could make up her mind about anything, before she could allow Johnny to ask her to marry him. The sound of a snorting horse interrupted them. Topaz quickly picked up the blankets and wrapped herself in them. Johnny eagerly jumped up and ran to the door. “Did you catch them?” he asked anxiously as the men dismounted and walked toward the shack. “No. They had too much of a head start and probably crossed the border well before we got there,” the sheriff said. Chad’s face was a mask of anger. “After Christmas I’m going to Mexico. I’ll find those bastards,” he said gruffly. “I’m with you,” Sam said. “Me, too,” Johnny chimed in. “I didn’t hear any of what you boys just said. I’m going a little deaf in one ear. You have to speak up.” The sheriff coughed a few times. Chad marched to where Topaz stood beside the stove. “Are you alright? Did those men hurt you?” Sam rushed to her as well. “Topaz, I’m so glad to 133

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see you standing there, girl. Are you okay?” Topaz felt tears well at their concern. “I’m fine. Thanks to Johnny, I’m toasty warm now. Sheriff, deputy, Jimmy, thank you all for coming to my rescue. I can hardly express my gratitude.” Stepping forward she stood on her tiptoes and kissed Chad on the cheek. “Thank you,” she whispered. Then she did the same with Sam who grabbed her and held her in his arms for a moment. “I still want to kill those bastards for what they did to you. I don’t get that you’re so calm about it all,” Chad said. “I’m fine, Chad. I wasn’t raped as you thought. I’ll tell you everything when we get back home.” A little of the hard mask on Chad’s face softened. But in a brusque tone he said, “I think we all want to go home and get a few hours sleep. It’s Christmas Day after all.” “And a thankful Christmas it’ll be,” the sheriff said. “For some. You’ll need to arrest Rachel, sheriff,” Johnny told him. “Topaz told me Rachel injected her and was behind the plot.” “I suspected as much.” “And she was part of the cattle rustling, too, or knew about it.” “Is that so? That little gal is going to need a good lawyer.” “So Father was right all along,” Chad muttered. “What was that about Father, Chad?” Sam asked. “Never mind. Let’s just say I was saved from the biggest mistake I could have made in my life. Let’s go.” Without further ado, he picked Topaz up and carried 134

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her in his arms to his horse, put her in the saddle then mounted behind her. Before they started to ride, he wrapped the blankets tightly around her, then he said softly near her ear for her only to hear, “And from now on I’m going to keep a close eye on you, missy.” Now what does he mean with that?

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Chapter Eleven woke from the sound of the drapes being Topaz drawn and sunlight streaming into the room. “What time is it?” she asked sleepily. “It’s noon, Mizz Topaz,” Corky told her. “You asked me to wake you up at noon.” The events of the night before now all seemed like a dream, unreal. When they arrived home that morning, she’d first been fussed over and mothered by Corky. Then she’d had a hot bath to scrub off the memory of Jake’s hands on her. She vaguely remembered Rachel handcuffed and led away by the sheriff, her father protesting loudly when Rachel accused him of cattle rustling and the sheriff slapped cuffs on him, too. She’d slept soundly and hardly remembered crawling into bed. Then again, the stiff brandy Chad had made her drink had probably helped with that. “Is anyone else up, Corky?” Topaz stifled a yawn. “Yes, Mizz Topaz. The boys are waiting for you downstairs.” Topaz swung her legs over the side of the bed forgetting that she was naked. “Missy, you really need to wear something decent at 136

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night. What if there is a fire or something? There are some lovely cotton nightgowns in that dresser over there.” A disapproving frown on her face, Corky promptly went to the dresser, opened a drawer and took out a lovely white nightgown trimmed with lace that looked hand made and handed it to Topaz. “It’s beautiful, Corky. I’ll be sure to wear it,” Topaz fingered the soft, fine-woven cotton. It was one dresser she hadn’t looked in, so she’d missed the pretty nightgowns. “There are more, in pretty colors, too. They belonged to Mistress Isabella.” After putting on her robe, she ran to Corky and hugged her. “Happy Christmas, Corky.” “And a blessed Christmas for you, Missy. I’m so thankful to the Lord that you’re here all in one piece.” Since she’d had a bath that morning and washed her hair, Topaz took a very quick shower. After toweling herself dry, she walked into the bedroom to find the bed made and clothes laid out for her on it. A white blouse with a deep neckline, almost resembling a gypsy blouse, trimmed with wide, gathered fine lace around the deep neckline and at the wrists and a forest green velvet skirt. It was a beautiful ensemble, one that suited Christmas. She hesitated at first, tempted to just wear jeans and a nice top, but then felt Corky knew best. Topaz was amazed that Isabella’s clothes fit her so perfectly, as if they’d been made especially for her. Isabella must have been the same size. She coiled her hair into a bun, then slipped on the flats she now hated, but she had no other choice. Isabella did have larger feet. She’d already tried on some of some of the shoes 137

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in the closet a few days ago. Twirling briefly before the mirror before going downstairs, she was pleased. The blouse showed off her golden skin and the forest green of the skirt suited her coloring. She felt very elegant as she walked down the stairs to join the men, at the same time sniffing the delicious aroma of a baking turkey wafting toward her. As she walked into the living room, she was so glad Corky had laid out the clothes for her. Chad, Sam and Johnny were all attired in dress pants and dress shirts, clean shaven, their hair neatly brushed. Her heart skipped a few beats while she approached them. Johnny stood and walked toward her. “Morning, Topaz. How are you feeling?” “I feel great. And please, all three of you, no mention of what happened last night. It’s Christmas Day. Let’s make it a happy and memorable one.” She stepped toward Johnny and standing on her tiptoes, kissed him on the lips. “Happy Christmas, Johnny.” Then she walked toward Sam, who stood up as she approached and did the same. When she turned to Chad, he remained seated. She examined the expression in his eyes, but though they weren’t hard, there was a guarded look in them. She didn’t care, wouldn’t allow him to intimidate her. Bending down, she planted a kiss on his lips. “Happy Christmas, Chad.” Soft Christmas music played, adding to the cozy atmosphere and a lusty fire crackled in the fireplace. There was a pile of gifts under the Christmas tree. The only thing missing was the sound of children’s happy laughter. This was the kind of Christmas she’d always dreamed of and she wished that Daddy John and her 138

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mother could have been there with them. She felt her eyes water but quelled her emotions quickly. Curling up in one of the deep armchairs, she picked up a magazine and started to read it. “Would you like some eggnog, Topaz?” Sam asked. “I’d love some.” “It’s homemade. Corky makes it,” Johnny told her. She sipped the eggnog. It tasted heavenly. At the same time, her rumbling stomach told her she was also hungry as hell. It rumbled so loud, the men heard it. Sam grinned from ear to ear. “Corky is making brunch for us. It should be ready soon. And after brunch, we’ll open gifts.” Topaz felt her cheeks burn. “I’m sorry, but I’m starving.” “I still can’t believe your appetite,” Chad said. “I think I already told you this, but it’s refreshing to see a woman eat heartily rather than see them picking at their food, afraid that every bite will add an extra pound.” She smiled. “You told me a couple of times, I think. Staying active helps a lot. I’m sure as I get older, I’ll have to watch my intake. One’s metabolism changes as we age, although my mother was still very slim until she passed away.” She choked on those words for a moment and tears threatened again. Though she’d tried to put the events of the night before out of her mind, they had affected her and this was the second Christmas without her mother now. It still hurt and she missed her like hell. “I’m sorry, Topaz. You must miss your mother as much as we miss our father today,” Chad said softly, his brown gaze now pools of compassion as it rested on 139

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her. “I miss both of them,” she said softly. “Though Daddy John never spent Christmas with us, he always visited for New Year’s Eve.” She shouldn’t have said anything about Daddy John. Chad’s eyes became hard as steel again and his face granite. Topaz could have bitten off her tongue. She was glad when Tiffy announced that brunch was ready. “Wow!” Was all she managed when she walked into the dining room. The table was covered with a red damask tablecloth and set with silver goblets, silver cutlery, silver platters with silver domes on them, a silver teapot and coffeepot, sugar bowl and creamer and a silver jug filled with eggnog and one filled with water. Crystal glasses stood next to each porcelain plate and a silver holder containing a red napkin. A lovely Christmas centerpiece with three burning candles stood in the center. It all sparkled and shone. The table was set at one end only, with Chad at the head of the table. Another servant, someone Topaz hadn’t seen before, lifted the domes from the platters. The mingled scent of bacon, fried potatoes, eggs benedict, scrambled eggs, sausages, soufflé, French toast, plain toast, scones, pancakes, crepes, fruit and a pecan pie, made her even hungrier. “I guarantee I won’t be hungry for dinner tonight,” she said as she helped herself to a generous helping of each dish. “There is enough food here to feed an army. Why don’t we invite Corky to join us? I’ll go and get her.” Without waiting for the men’s reaction, she hurried to the kitchen. Corky was just getting ready to leave. “Corky, would you like to eat brunch with us?” Topaz asked. 140

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“Aw, Mizz Topaz, that’s ever so sweet of you to ask. I’ve already eaten and am just about to go and join my family. Thank you so much for asking. If I’d known—” Topaz hugged her. “Never mind. There’s always another time. It was just a thought, but do remember you’re always welcome to join us.” She sighed. “There is way too much food for the three of us. What about Tiffy? Do you think she’d like to join us?” she looked around but didn’t see Tiffy. “She’s about to arrive any minute, Mizz Topaz, to babysit the turkey. I suspect she already had lunch with her family. Now scoot. Go and eat before it all gets cold.” “Have a great time with your family, Corky. I’ll see you tonight.” Topaz hurried back to the dining room. They hadn’t waited for her and had started already. “I gather Corky didn’t want to come,” Chad said. “Servants usually don’t eat with their employers.” “I tend to change all that. Corky is like part of your family. I see no reason why she can’t eat with us.” “Don’t try and change things around here too fast, Topaz,” Sam told her. “It won’t be taken kindly to by some if word gets around.” A sharp retort was about to leave her lips, but she swallowed the words. It was hard to imagine that some people could be so discriminating. Then again, from what she’d seen on Christmas Eve, many of the guests were just rich snobs with nothing better to do with their time except gossip. Quickly changing the subject, she started to help herself to food. “I don’t know what to eat first. After this meal, I doubt I’ll want to eat anything else all day.” 141

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“We don’t eat dinner until about eight tonight,” Johnny said. “By that time, you’ll be hungry again. Corky said she’d be back around six o’clock to finish cooking Christmas dinner.” He poured himself a cup of coffee, then held the coffeepot out toward her. “Coffee? Or would you prefer eggnog?” “Actually, tea would be a better thought. It doesn’t fill one up as much.” She enjoyed everything immensely but was careful not to overindulge. “There’ll be plenty leftover for tomorrow’s breakfast.” “I don’t eat leftover food,” Chad said. “Why not?” “It loses its taste. It goes to the pigs and the dogs.” “Well, I guess they’re entitled to something special as well. I hate the thought of food just being thrown out. My mother had to count every penny when I was very young so I learned to appreciate everything in life. There is a lot of poverty in Mexico. Compared to many of my friends, we lived quite well.” “What did your mother do for a living, Topaz? Did she have a profession?” Sam asked. When she didn’t answer right away, “It’s okay if you don’t want to talk about her. I’m sorry for asking.” “My mother was a waitress. To make extra money on the side, she cleaned houses for the rich. She never accepted a penny from Daddy John, even though he hated her working so hard and he offered many a time to give her a monthly allowance and set her up in a little house of her own.” Chad’s eyes were like black charcoal as he gazed at her. He wiped his mouth with the napkin. “It sounds like she was a lady of integrity.” 142

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“She was. My mother was an orphan, raised poorly in an orphanage and she was determined to give me a better life and good schooling and to do it all on her own.” The conversation about her mother had made her emotional and she couldn’t help the few tears that escaped. Swiping at them angrily, she changed the subject again. “So what do you do after gift opening?” “We usually played cards,” Johnny said. “But it won’t be the same without Father.” This time she saw pain fleetingly cross their faces and Chad once again crawled inside his bitter shell. “We can still play cards. That doesn’t have to change.” “We’ll see,” Chad said. “I think we’re all finished? Let’s go back to the living room then and open gifts.” “I’ll be back shortly,” Topaz said as she left the dining room. She hadn’t put her own gifts under the tree and wanted to brush her teeth. After brushing them, she put all her neatly wrapped gifts for the men in bags, put Corky’s and Tiffy’s in another small bag, and hurried downstairs. Chad reclined lazily in the Lazy Boy, his eyes closed. Sam sat in an easy chair smoking a cigar and reading the paper and Johnny was busy loading the CD player with new CD’s. Topaz quickly emptied her bags under the tree. The fire had almost gone out. “I think the fire can use another log or two. Want me to do it?” she asked. “I’ll do it,” Sam said. “You go and relax. After last night—” “Sam!” she admonished. “Sorry. But please go and sit down. Would you like some more eggnog? A glass of wine?” 143

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“Thanks, Sam, I’m still stuffed. Maybe a glass of wine after gift opening? Who is going to hand out gifts?” Johnny held up his hand. “I will. We always do one gift at a time. No crazy rush of tearing paper and no one knows what the other one got. It’s always been done that way.” “Sounds good. I know what you mean about everyone opening gifts all at once. It can get crazy. I suppose if it is a large family and there are twenty or more people there, it would take forever to do one at a time.” “In that case, a couple at a time, but still not hand them out to everyone. At least that’s what I would do if this family was that big,” Sam said. “Who knows? When you are all married and have children, it can expand quite fast,” Topaz said smiling at each one of them. Johnny sent her a strange look. Chad’s gaze was fixated on her and Sam chewed his cigar. It was as if she’d just said the most shocking thing in the world. “You first,” Johnny said handing her a parcel. “Oh, wow. I didn’t expect anything. I love giving more than receiving.” She looked at the tag. All it said that it was from Santa. “Thank you, Santa.” “Ooooh, she’s one of those who like to save the wrapping paper and ribbons and make us wait. For goodness sake, Topaz, we can afford new paper next year. Tear it off,” Sam said uttering a groan. “Old habits die hard,” Topaz answered but ripped the ribbons and paper off. It was a digital camera, an expensive one and one she’d had her eye on for some 144

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time. “Wow, how did Santa know I really wanted this? This is exactly the one I’ve been looking at on the internet.” She was as excited as a little girl getting her first doll and eagerly opened the box to take the camera out. Now was a good time to start taking pictures, that’s if the battery was charged. Hardly hearing the chatter between the men, she opened the box, took out the instructions and read them quickly, then inserted the battery and the memory card. When she lifted the camera to take a picture of the tree, she saw three pairs of eyes riveted on her. Chad had a bemused expression on his face and Sam and Johnny looked at her with adoration. Her heart sped up. Blood rushed to her face until her cheeks felt super hot. “It’s a fantastic camera. Thank you again, Santa,” she said and jumped off the chair to give Johnny a hug. “How did you know it was from me?” “I remember mentioning a camera when we went riding.” Glad that it came with a charged battery, she quickly started snapping pictures of the men as they opened gifts, of the tree and of the three men together as two of them admired the other’s gift. “Sit down, Topaz. There are more gifts for you,” Johnny said and she noticed the pile of gifts that had grown next to her chair. Topaz sat and started to open the other gifts. There was a photo album, chocolates, lovely earrings, a romance novel by her favorite author, another book and then she came to a large box. It was fairly heavy. Tearing off the wrapping paper, she gasped. It was a laptop. Glaring at Sam, who was surely the culprit as she’d mentioned leaving her old little laptop at home, 145

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she grimaced and jumped up to embrace him. “Thank you, Santa. You all pay very close attention to what I say.” She kissed him fully on the lips and he kissed her in return. If they hadn’t been in the presence of his brothers, the kiss would have escalated into more, she was sure. “Okay, how about you all open some more now?” There were just a few presents left—the smaller ones she’d bought for the men and had put way at the back of the pile and a few more. Johnny opened his first. “Wow, it’s solid gold.” He held up the small statue and then read the engraving. For the most wonderful, gentlest and kindest man I’ve ever known. May you always remain so. “Topaz, that’s beautiful. It must have cost you a fortune. You shouldn’t—” “Hush, Johnny. I hope you like it. I didn’t know what else to get you.” “I love it. Come here,” he said taking her hand and pulling her out of the chair. He embraced her and kissed her passionately, right there in front of his brothers. Her heart about jumped out of her chest. Oh, she loved this man and wished she could be open about it. But until she sorted out her feelings for the other two, there was no way. Her face was burning as she sat again. In the meantime, Sam had opened his gift and read the inscription aloud. “May you always be the calming balance.” Sam walked toward her and bent down. Though he didn’t take her in his arms, his kiss was as passionate as Johnny’s. Her panties were quite damp now, her crotch ached with longing. “Thank you, honey. That was very 146

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thoughtful.” Chad had already opened his gift and sat in his chair looking at the open compass. His face was unreadable, his eyes a mystery of expressions. “I’m sure there’s an inscription in yours, Chad. Read it,” Johnny said. “No, there’s nothing in it,” he answered in a gruff tone. Topaz knew why he didn’t want to read it out loud. It was too personal. To help guide your heart in the right direction, is what she’d had engraved inside the lid. “Thank you, Topaz. It’s very nice,” he said lamely and remained in his chair. “There is one last gift here for Topaz.” Johnny handed it to her. She tore the wrapping off the small parcel and held a box. When she opened it, there was a dark blue velvet case inside. After she took it out and opened it, there was a gold chain with a gold St. Christopher medal. The medal was surrounded by beautiful filigree gold. Inside the lid was engraved, To protect you always wherever you may go. When she took it out of its case, she saw his initials engraved on the back. “Chad, it’s absolutely beautiful. Would you do the clasp up for me please?” She’d put the necklace around her neck and stood before him. Without looking like a fool, he had no choice but to stand up and do it up for her. Is it my imagination or did his fingers linger longer on my neck than necessary? His touch sent vibrations through her. It was as if he’d touched her soul. She turned around and looked up into 147

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his eyes. “Thank you, Chad. I’ll always wear it.” Then she grabbed him by the neck, pulled his head down and kissed him on the lips. He didn’t hold her, but neither did he pull away. Rather, the kiss lasted longer than it should as he suddenly sucked her tongue into his mouth and kissed her very passionately for a moment. Her body ached with longing now. And she knew. When he pulled away and stood before her looking deep into her eyes, she read a message there, a message he probably still didn’t realize himself. He loved her, too. And she knew now that their souls had touched that he was the one she loved the most. Yet, she couldn’t bear the thought of parting with Sam and Johnny. Her heart was a bundle of turmoil now, her thoughts in chaos. “Well, now that all gifts are opened, is everyone ready for a game of cards?” Johnny interrupted the magic moment while he was busy picking up wrapping paper and throwing it on the blazing fire. “I’d like a glass of wine first and there is something else. You might call it another gift. If you’ll pour us all a glass of wine, Sam, and we all sit down, I’ll tell you,” Topaz said. Only the music and crackling flames permeated the silence of the room. The three brothers were silent and Topaz gazed at the fire. While lying before the stove in the shack, she’d thought long and hard about it all. She’d made up her mind and she had to act on it now. “I’ve given this a lot of thought. I have no idea where Daddy John’s mind was when he made up his new will, but what he did wasn’t right. If he wanted to look after me, he could have just left me a part of 148

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everything, rather than the whole shebang.” “Topaz, today is not the time to talk about that stuff,” Sam cautioned quietly. “It’s okay, Sam. Don’t worry. Chad, sit down, please? I don’t want the estate. I want to give it all back to the three of you. On one condition, that I can have a small share to build a little house of my own and live here. I feel like I’ve finally got the family I’ve always longed for. I don’t need the riches, the mansion or the ranch. I’m a registered nurse and can provide for myself very nicely. There is a shortage of nurses everywhere, I’m sure I won’t have a problem finding a job. After the holidays, I’ll go and see Terry and ask him what needs to be done for me to reject the will.” She might as well have dropped a bomb and killed the three of them they were so silent. It had taken a lot for her to come to that decision, but she felt it was the right thing to do. And that way, she would, also, know if they really cared for her, or if their love stemmed from their desire to hold on to their inheritance by marrying her and she knew that Johnny had been on the verge of asking her. “Can you do that?” Johnny asked. “Do what?” “Reject an inheritance.” “I’m sure you can. I don’t have to accept it if I don’t want it. I just won’t sign any papers. That should do it and everything will automatically revert back to you three.” Chad stood and started pacing back and forth. Suddenly he stopped right before her. “Why would you do that now, Topaz? You were so determined to keep 149

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the estate and settle here.” “I just feel and know in my heart it belongs to the three of you.” “Son, I told you she’s a great little gal. She’s acting on her feelings and her heart. You need to act on yours now. You know she’s the woman for you. Don’t let this one slip through your fingers.” “Johnny and Sam are, too.” “We’re what, Chad?” Johnny asked. Chad suddenly realized he’d answered his father aloud. “Oh, never mind me. I was just thinking about what Topaz just said. How do I know you’ll keep your word, Topaz? Is this another ploy?” Topaz jumped up out of her chair and faced him. “A ploy to do what? Where is your mind?” “Yes, where the fuck is your mind, son? This little gal hasn’t got it in her to scheme and plot. Just accept her gift and be glad for it. I’m happy I accomplished what I set out to do.” Father, if you can hear my thoughts, how the hell is this going to work out? Three brothers in love with one woman. It could cause a huge split between the three of us. “I can hear your thoughts, son. Interesting situation. I think little Topaz might find a solution to that problem.” “I’m sorry. If you’re sincere, we’ll call Terry after the holidays and we’ll all go and see him together. Now how about that game of cards?” While they played, Topaz noticed that Chad kept picking up the compass and opening and closing it. To his brothers, he might seem to be just playing with it, 150

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but Topaz noticed several times that he read the inscription and his eyes would meet hers. Not hard now, just that gorgeous melting chocolate brown with a lot of questions in them. Oh, her heart and soul reached out to him, ached for him. And then she’d see Sam’s eyes gaze at her lovingly, his heart written all over his face, in his expression. And Johnny was an open book for everyone to see, the way he waited on her, hung onto every word she said. Ye gads, in love with three men. What can I do about this situation? And will Chad ever declare his love for me? And if he does, will he ask me to marry him? And she knew deep down that she would accept a proposal from Chad. But that would cause a split between the brothers and that’s the last thing she wanted. It seemed, now that she had offered to give up the inheritance, that all tension had disappeared. They laughed, joked and played like a real family, as if she had three brothers. And that’s maybe what they should remain. Three adopted brothers, Daddy John’s boys, the man she’d loved as her own father and he’d made sure that she met his sons. Suddenly, she realized the reason he’d made the new will. If he’d left her some money, a share, she would not have gone to the Douglas ranch and would have handled everything from Mexico. This had been his way of making sure that she ended up there. And did he have a devious plan that one of his sons should marry me? She wouldn’t put it past him. She’d give anything to talk to him right now. To see his beloved face once more, to hear his voice. “Topaz? It’s your deal,” Johnny said. “What’s 151

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wrong?” he asked worriedly when he noticed tears in her eyes. “Nothing. I’m fine. Just got some of Sam’s smoke in my eyes, that’s all,” she said and smiled at him. “I’m sorry,” Sam said, putting the ashtray on his other side. “Normally, we never smoke in the house. Father made it a rule that on Christmas Day we could enjoy our cigars.” “It’s okay. I agree with the no smoking in the house, but Christmas is special. I actually love the aroma of a good cigar,” Topaz told him. “Well, it’s after six. I’m sure Corky is busy getting dinner ready for us. After this round, how about we sit around the fire for a bit and just relax,” Sam suggested. “Yes, sounds good. Chad, why don’t you go and get your guitar and play for us. You haven’t played for us since—” Johnny suggested. “Father died. Alright. I’ll go and get it,” he said and left the room. “I’m going to go and freshen up a bit. I’ll be back shortly,” Topaz said, but she really wanted to talk to Corky. After gathering Corky’s and Tiffy’s gifts, she left the room to go to the kitchen. Chad was right. The strong aroma of turkey met her as she opened the door, plus some other delicious smells. Her stomach rumbled. “Corky, Tiffy, I have some gifts for you,” she said while handing them their parcels. “Aw, Mizz Topaz, you shouldn’t have done that. We already got gifts from the boys.” “I wanted to.” She waited while they opened their gifts. Tiffy let out a huge squeal when she saw the bracelet and rushed to give her a big hug. Corky had 152

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tears in her eyes when she saw the beautiful chain and cross. She wasn’t jubilant like Tiffy, but the way she grabbed Topaz’s hands and her black eyes filled with tears was enough. “Corky, I’d like to talk to you in private if you have some time. Think you can?” “Yes, sure. Tiffy, go and fetch wood for the fireplace. And take your time.” After Tiffy left the kitchen, Topaz sank down at the table and waited for Corky to sit opposite her. “Corky, I’ve got a huge problem.” “I hope I can help you, Mizz Topaz.” “I’ve fallen in love with Chad, Sam and Johnny and I know they love me. I don’t know what to do.” There, she’d blurted it out. “My, oh my,” Corky said. “Three all at once and them being brothers. That bodes no good. Unless you can give all three of them the loving they need.” “What do you mean? I can’t marry all three of them.” “Maybe not in the conventional way, but you can handfast with all three. It’s a pagan wedding ceremony. We’d have to find someone who can officiate for you.” “I’m not pagan.” “Missy, you don’t have to be pagan to have a handfast ceremony. Of course, for legal purposes and the eyes of the world, you’d be best off marrying one of them the traditional way.” “But then I’d lose Sam and Johnny.” “Oh, so Master Chad is your first choice. Surprising after the way he’s treated you.” “That’s not him—that was just his anger. I see 153

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deeper than that, Corky.” “If you truly love a man, you can see deep into his heart and soul, just like I could with my Andrew, rest his soul. You’d wed Master Chad legally on one day and you’d wed all three in a handfasting ceremony the day after.” “I don’t know how they would take to that, Corky. I’ve heard of it, read books with threesomes and even foursomes, but do they know about that stuff?” Corky laughed heartily. “You’re a woman, figure it all out. And my three boys ain’t no backward hillbillies. Now scoot. Tiffy will be back in a minute.” Topaz hugged Corky. “Thanks so much. I can talk to you just like I could to my mother, although I don’t know if she’d approve of me getting hitched to three men all at once.” Chad singing and playing the guitar greeted her when she opened the door to the living room. Johnny and Sam sat on the floor in front of the fire while Chad sat on the edge of a big armchair. She joined Sam and Johnny on the floor and chimed in when Chad played Silent Night. “Come on, you guys, I’m sure you know the words to this,” she urged Sam and Johnny. Squashing a grin, she sang and watched Sam and Johnny chime in almost shyly. When Chad played songs she didn’t know she just relaxed. Leaning on one elbow, she let the warmth of the fire stroke her and allowed her mind to wander to the thought of making love to all three of them. It almost felt natural that Johnny stroked her back and Sam lifted her feet onto his lap and started to massage them. She discovered that she had some real 154

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erogenous zones on her feet and almost squirmed when he massaged those spots. Her panties were quite damp, her crotch ached with longing, her clit hurt. Oh, she wanted these men, wanted them so bad she was ready to start loving them right there and then. Her heart pounded against her ribs, her nipples strained against her blouse. But it wasn’t the right time, not yet. Corky or Tiffy would announce dinner soon. And I still want to wait until my wedding night, but with who? Which one of the three will be the first to ask me to marry him?

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Chapter Twelve the life of her, she couldn’t fall asleep that night. ForThough Christmas had started off badly, the remainder of it, the most important hours of Christmas, had been more than she could have ever wished and hoped for. For the first time in her life, she felt she had a real home, a family. Except the three men were more than the brothers she always wanted. They were three males she wanted, yes, but in more ways than a sister would think about. So much had happened in such a short time. It was hard to imagine that just a month ago, she was a normal, hardworking nurse living a very normal life hoping to one day meet the right man to share her life with. And within that month, she’d not only met one but three men she wanted to share her life with, inherited a fortune, was kidnapped and now dreaming about the three men and what it would be like to have them in her bed. Chad, he was the one she felt drawn to the most. Maybe it was because of his stubbornness, his anger, his elusiveness, she didn’t know. All three of them sent out vicious male pheromones, ones that turned her on so much that she squirmed with desire and the need to 156

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have that lust fulfilled. Topaz thought about Corky’s advice, to have a handfasting ceremony with the three of them. Oh, she’d read about threesomes and foursomes in the erotic books she often bought online and though she enjoyed reading those stories and they turned her on, she never imagined herself doing the same. Now that had changed. She needed, no, wanted, Chad, Sam and Johnny in her bed, touching her, loving her. Would they think me a total slut if they knew my desires, my thoughts and my dreams? Kicking the covers off, then removing the pretty nightgown Corky had insisted on her wearing, she lay naked and imagined all three climbing on the bed with her. She closed her eyes and conjured their faces up, one by one, as she massaged her breasts. Fierce heat welled up within her, a heat so intense it needed dousing. Perspiration dotted her forehead as she squirmed, spread her legs wide and imagined their eyes on her pussy, looking at her, drinking in the sight of her womanhood. Still massaging her breasts with one hand, her other stole down between her legs and fingered her hard clit. It throbbed. It ached with a longing she didn’t know she possessed. Her hand was covered in the gush of cream that escaped from her vagina. She rubbed it between the folds, imagined their fingers doing this, then entered her fingers. She rotated them, moved them back and forth until she felt she could burst and then she finally came. Breathing heavily, she lay back wishing she owned some of the toys she’d read about. Her fingers were hardly big enough to satisfy completely, but for now, the intensity of her desire had 157

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calmed somewhat. After she moved some of the pillows behind her back, she pulled up the covers, snuggled against the pillows pretending they were a body and finally drifted off. **** “Would you like to go shopping today, Topaz?” Chad asked at breakfast. “Uh, no. I don’t need anything.” “Oh. Tons of sales today.” “That might be, but I’m not much of one for big sales. I hate fighting crowds.” “Now that we’re rested and it’s the next day, I’ll ask you again. Were you serious last night?” “Yes, very serious. The only thing I’m afraid of is that you don’t want me to stay here.” “Of course you can live here,” Johnny said. “Right here in the house. You don’t have to build a separate house.” “I agree,” Sam stated and looked at Chad who sat playing with his scrambled eggs, a brooding expression on his face. Finally, he looked at Topaz. “Why do you want to stay here, Topaz?” “I told you last night. I found the family I always dreamed about, three brothers.” “Brothers.” It came out sarcastic. “Right. I’ve got work to do, so do you two,” he told his brothers. “I think I’ll go riding,” Topaz told them. “That’s if it’s okay with you?” Her question was directed at Chad. She knew Sam and Johnny would have no objection. “I 158

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don’t think I need an escort anymore. By the way, have any of you heard anything about Rachel and her father and what’s happening there?” “No. I’ll call the sheriff some time today,” Sam said as he left the kitchen. Topaz hurried upstairs to fetch a jacket. The sky was dark with heavy clouds as if there was a storm brewing. The men would have warned her in that case so she wasn’t worried. Neither was she afraid of storms. Hank greeted her when she entered the stables. “Morning, Miss. I have Frost all ready for you.” “What about Daisy?” “She’s got some kind of virus. The vet’s coming this afternoon.” “Aw, that’s too bad. I’ll visit her when I come back.” “Frost is more frisky than Daisy, so be careful, Miss.” “I will. Thanks, Hank.” Oh, it felt wonderful, the wind whipping through her hair, the freedom. As she approached the forest, she heard the sound of another rider who soon rode beside her. She was shocked and at the same time pleasantly surprised that it was Chad on Lucifer. “Whooaaa,” she pulled in the reins and stopped Frost and saw Chad do the same. “Something wrong, Chad?” she asked. “No. I thought I’d join you. You’ve gone riding with Johnny and Sam. It’s my turn.” Oh, if he could read her thoughts at that moment, hear her heart hammering, feel her skin pucker as bolts of fire shot through her sending her libido into overkill. Stop it, Topaz, she thought. He’s riding with you, that’s all. 159

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“Where did you go with Sam and Johnny?” he asked. “To the river.” “And you went swimming.” “Yes.” “Too cold for that today. I’d almost believe we’re going to get snow. It does snow here occasionally.” “Really? I’d love that.” Chad looked up at the sky. “It’s not really a snow sky. We’ll see. I’ll take you to another place that’s quite interesting. We’ll follow the main trail along the river.” They trotted for a while. Here and there a fallen tree blocked the trail but the horses had no issue jumping over the logs. Chad stopped. “Okay, we’re here. Tie your horse,” he told her. She had no idea where here was, but she didn’t care and waited till he took a backpack that was tied to his saddle and put it on. He, also, produced a large flashlight. When he took her hand in his and pulled her along, she felt his charisma crawl all the way up her arm. She shivered. “Are you cold?” “No.” “Good. You’ll soon warm up when we climb.” They had to climb up a steep hillside. But once they got to the top and she saw the bluff, she realized why he wanted to show her this spot. He showed her some fantastic falls and she could have hit herself that she’d not brought her new camera with her. She made a mental note to come here again on a sunny day and to bring the camera. Suddenly, it started to rain. Not just rain, it pelted and it was mixed with hail. Within 160

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seconds she was soaked, her hair plastered to her head. “Come on. I know where we can shelter,” Chad said, grabbing her hand again and pulling her with him. There was a cave entrance. It was kind of hidden, that’s why she hadn’t noticed it before. He quickly pulled her into the entrance. There was some litter— beer bottles, candy wrappers, obviously a party spot for young people. “I already planned to show you the cave. The rain just speeded things up a little,” Chad said. “Follow me.” She followed him into a tunnel. After about twentyfive feet, it became quite dark and he turned the flashlight on. Topaz found it quite creepy, but she trusted him. In some places, the tunnel narrowed. Chad swiped cobwebs out of the way. She hoped there weren’t any spiders or snakes. “Here we are.” He held his hand out. When she put her hand in his, he pulled her forward, out of the tunnel into a large open space. Pulling her along, he stopped at what looked like to be the center. “Here, sit down and I’ll build a fire.” Where he got the wood from, she had no idea. It was almost as if he came here on a regular basis and had it all ready. In no time, he had a roaring fire going. In the dim light of the fire that threw eerie shadows over the cave walls, she saw him take off the backpack, take off his jacket and shake his head. He ran his fingers through his wet hair. “You’d best take off that wet jacket,” he told her. “Your jeans are soaked as well. I have a blanket with me. Take your jeans off so they can dry near the fire. I 161

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don’t want you catching a cold.” He opened the backpack and pulled out a redcheckered woolen blanket. “Here, you can wrap this around yourself.” Trying to hide within the blanket, she took her jeans off and her shirt, which was wet as well. The jean jacket was hardly suitable to protect one from rain. She wrapped the blanket around her sarong style, then when she looked at Chad, he’d taken off his boots and jeans and was draping them on the ground near the fire. Next, he took off his shirt until he stood only in his sox and boxers. Oh, he set her blood racing. The fire lit up his muscular frame, accentuated each groove, each muscle, his face. “Sorry, I didn’t know we’d get such a downpour. The forecast told me it would come later today. I don’t want you to think I planned this.” Topaz had no clue why she felt so shy suddenly. It wasn’t as if he hadn’t seen her naked before. “Then why the blanket and the flashlight and everything?” “You caught me there. I did plan us to have a romantic picnic here, but I didn’t plan on the rain. The blanket was for us to sit on, instead of a cold stone ground,” he said, a remorseful expression on his face as he produced two candles and candle holders and proceeded to set them on the ground then lit them. Romantic? Yes, it was. Incredibly so and she was surprised and at the same time flooded with happiness. “I don’t mind sitting on the ground. The fire is making me toasty warm,” she said lamely and saw him produce a bottle of wine, two glasses, plates and buns. Smelling turkey, she presumed the buns had turkey on them. He 162

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handed her a glass of wine, then a plate with a bun on it. She sipped the wine and felt it warm her even more. She felt his gaze on her all the time and every now and then she dared to look into his eyes and melted. Right then and there, he could have made her do anything. “Taste your bun. They’re freshly baked and delicious. Corky baked them for us this morning,” Chad said. Topaz took a bite. And though she wasn’t really hungry as they’d had breakfast not that long ago, the fresh bread was delicious as he’d said and she eagerly took a bigger bite. While chewing, she bit on something hard. “Ouch, a bone,” and fished it out of her mouth. Except it didn’t feel like a bone and when she held it up to look at it, it shone in the light from the fire. It was a beautiful white gold diamond ring, the diamond surrounded by emeralds. She almost dropped it in shock. Chad handed her a bottle of water so she could rinse it off. “Chad, I don’t know what to say. It’s absolutely gorgeous!” “Just say yes.” “Yes to what? Wearing the ring?” He moved to sit next to her then and took the ring from her fingers. Grabbing her left hand, he put it on her ring finger. “Topaz, will you marry me?” It was as if a thunderbolt sounded through the cave accompanied by lightning she was so shocked. If her heart sped up any more, she’d have an instant heart attack. “Chad, I—” He stopped her by kissing her on the lips, gently at first, his lips barely grazing hers, until he took her into his arms and kissed her savagely. His tongue entered 163

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her mouth, explored, danced with her tongue. Pulling away, he looked down into her eyes. “Honey, I love you. I’ve fought you long enough. It’s time to set things right, to do what was meant to be. I want you for my wife and spend the rest of time with you.” Tears welled up and ran down her cheeks. He kissed them away. “Why are you crying? I’m sorry. I guess you don’t feel the same. I sprung this on you and—” He was about to pull away. “I do love you, I do, so much it hurts. And I want to say yes, but there’s a big problem.” “And that is? The estate? The inheritance? Sweetheart, I wanted to do this before you told us you’d reject it all. It has nothing to do with it.” “No. Your brothers.” She nestled against his chest, hardly caring that the blanket had dropped. “Chad, I love Sam and Johnny, too, just as much, and I’m so torn,” she told him softly. “I want to be with all three of you.” He was quiet for a while but still held her tightly against his chest. Finally, he said, “I was afraid of something like that. Well, not entirely. I was afraid that you’d fallen in love with one of them. Loving the three of us, that’s a different matter entirely.” “Legally, I can only marry one of you.” “So what are you proposing—that the three of us share you?” His tone was rather brusque, jealous. “Something like that.” “Sweetheart, I’m not some backward clodhopper and I know some people manage quite well in such situations, but I never imagined myself—” 164

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“Sharing a woman with your two brothers. I know. I don’t know what to do. It’s tearing me apart.” She took the ring off and held it out to him. “I can’t wear this. Not yet.” She saw the pain in his eyes and hated what she was doing. But she had to be honest. “No?” He ignored the ring, pulled her against him again and crushed her lips, his kiss more savage now than the first as he lowered her to the hard ground. For a moment he leaned over her, gazing at her breasts, then leaned down to suck a nipple. His hand stole between her legs. Greedily, she opened her legs wide for him and didn’t care that he ripped the flimsy, wet panties off her. His fingers stroked, his lips caressed her nipples, his other hand kneaded her breasts. She arched her hips and didn’t care about her virginity anymore. His fingers rotated within her, moved back and forth, until she felt release. Once she had come, he lay beside her, pulling her naked body against his own. She reached down and found his throbbing cock. It was hard as a rock. Her fingers stroked the thick veins that ran along it. She cupped his tight sack and squeezed it gently, then moved down until her head was level with his hips. Bending down, she took his cock into her mouth and sucked. She heard his deep groan as she licked the precum off the head then took him into her mouth completely. But that’s not what she wanted. She needed him inside her. He might have made her come, but she was still on fire for him, wanted that immense cock to invade her, to love her. “Take me, my love, please,” she said softly as she moved up and kissed him. “Please, I want you to take my gift. Make love to me?” 165

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His eyes were like black coals, a soft shudder shook him and she knew he needed release as well. Continuing to plead, she lay on her back and opened her legs wide, inviting him, luring him to enter her. He seemed to hesitate for a moment, then sat between her legs on his knees and placed his cock at her entrance. He was thick, oh so deliciously thick and she ached for him to push in, to make her his completely. He entered and she arched up trying to force him to push in completely. After he was inside her about an inch, he suddenly withdrew and swore under his breath. She felt his semen spill on her belly as he crushed her in his arms and took her lips. “You little witch, you’ve got me under your spell,” he whispered. “I almost took you.” “But that’s what I wanted,” she said, tears running down her cheeks. “I won’t take that which you’ve saved all these years for your wedding night.” “I’ll marry you, my darling, but I want to marry Sam and Johnny, too!” she said in between soft sobs. “You know that isn’t possible,” he said while nuzzling her neck. “Yes it is. I talked to Corky. We can do a handfasting. The four of us can be happy together.” “I know about handfasting. Remember, Corky pretty much raised us. What do Sam and Johnny say about this?” “I haven’t talked to them about it.” “And how about children? Who are they going to call Daddy or Father?” “All three of you. Just like I called your father, 166

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Daddy John, they can call you, Daddy Chad and the same for your brothers.” “And how would we know who the real father is?” “Is that necessary? Only in case of illness, blood transfusion or whatever, we can have a DNA test done.” “Angel, you must have thought this out pretty good. How long have you been contemplating all this?” “Not that long.” “I want you to keep the ring. It belonged to my mother and only the woman who will share my life can wear it and deep down, I know you are the one.” “My love, I know we belong together. But I also belong with Sam and Johnny.” “Then we have to wait until you talk to them. You have to choose one of us for a legal wedding according to the law.” “I’ve already chosen. That’ll be you. But I can’t do that until I know that I can also marry your brothers, even if it’s not recognized by law. In some places, a man can have more than one wife. What’s so weird about a woman having more than one husband? I can please all of you.” “But not at the same time.” “Oh yes, I can. I’ll have to show you where to watch some videos on your computer.” “You mean you’ve been watching porn movies, you naughty girl?” “As if you never have,” she retorted. “Yes, but usually with monogamous couples.” “Well, you need to watch a ménage so you can learn.” 167

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“Enough talk. I don’t know what the weather is doing, but I don’t care. For now, all I want to do is hold you, touch you, kiss you and tell you how much I love you.” He slipped the ring back on her finger and held her tight, his lips nibbling her ear then slowly moving down to her neck and to her mouth. Topaz sighed. She had a lot to sort out, but for now, she was in Heaven, in the place she’d longed to be from the moment she laid eyes on him.

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Chapter Thirteen damn hard not to walk up to Chad and hug Ithim,wastouch him, kiss him. They had agreed to keep

their relationship quiet for now until she’d sorted things out with his brothers. She was so afraid that Sam and Johnny would reject the idea of a handfasting and that her engagement to Chad would cause a huge rift between the brothers and she knew it bothered Chad as well. There was no other way. She had to marry one of them legally and she’d known from the start it had to be Chad and that he was always meant for her from the day she was born. And she felt Daddy John had known this and that’s why he changed the will, so she’d come to the ranch and be with his sons. “Want to go for a walk, Topaz?” Sam asked after lunch. “I’d love to. I’ll just go and get a jacket.” Even though the rain of the day before had stopped, it was still gray and quite cold out. She was glad Sam had asked her to go for a walk. Maybe it would give her an opportunity to talk to him, to find out his true feelings for her. Maybe all he felt was lust and it wouldn’t bother him if she married Chad. After all, Sam had 169

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never declared any love for her like Johnny. “Where are we going?” she asked when she joined him outside. “Oh, I don’t know. We’ll just walk and see where it takes us,” he answered and held out his hand. She put her hand in his and felt the fire in her start at his touch. Oh, why does life have to be this difficult? He led her to a trail in the forest, a different trail from the one she and Chad had ridden. She didn’t hear the river so had no idea where the trail led and maybe it led nowhere in particular, perhaps it was just a trail. And that it was. They’d walked quietly for quite a while until Sam stopped. “Tired yet?” he asked turning to her. “No. Does this trail lead anywhere particular?” “Not really. It’s just a bush trail. Are you bored?” “Nope. I love going for long walks.” Sam took her other hand and pulled her toward him. “Topaz, I think you know I’ve fallen in love with you.” “I wasn’t sure.” “As I’m not sure about your feelings for me. You puzzle me. You have this intense look of warmth in your eyes when you look at me, but you look at my brothers the same way. I’m unsure if that’s just your expression, although I don’t see it when you look at Corky, so it has to mean something. I’m utterly confused.” Topaz stood on her toes and kissed him. “I love you, Sam. I do.” She watched his eyes light up, his face relax and then he pulled her into his arms. “Do you really, sweetheart? Do you really love me?” 170

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“Yes, I do. I really, really love you.” He kissed her, long and deep. He crushed her so hard against his chest that her breasts hurt. “Baby, you’ve got no idea how happy you’ve just made me,” he said softly against her cheek. “Will you marry me?” “Sam, there is a problem.” “Problem? What is it? Can I help you with it?” “Yes, you can, but I’m not sure you want to after I tell you.” He held her away from him. “Let’s go and sit somewhere so we can talk,” he suggested and pulled her by the hand to a bare spot beneath some trees. He sat down first, then pulled her onto his lap and held her. “Okay, tell me now.” “I love your brothers, too.” There, she’d blurted it out. “What do you mean?” “I love all three of you the same.” “How is that possible? You can’t marry and love all three of us. It’s illegal.” “Sam, I can marry one man legally, but we can do a handfasting and I can marry all three of you.” “It’s not recognized by law.” “Maybe not, but it’s still binding and a promise that we’ll spend our lives together.” “Have you talked to Chad and Johnny about this? Have either of them asked you to marry them?” “Chad has. Johnny almost and no, I haven’t talked to Johnny about this yet. I need the right moment. Chad knows and I think he’s come to terms with it.” “Sweetheart, I don’t know if I can lie in bed and 171

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listen to you make love with one of my brothers.” “Sam, haven’t you ever heard of a ménage? Yes, I can love all three of you in different ways and at one time. And there could be times when I love you singly, when there are just you and I, or Chad and I or Johnny. It can work, Sam, if there is enough love between all of us. If you love your brothers enough.” “Yes, I know about a ménage and I’ve seen movies. I’ll have to get my head around this. I dreamed of you and I getting married, having a family, filling the house with the laughter of little ones, our little ones. You’ve got no idea how I’ve spent hours longing for you, wanting to hold you, kiss you, make love to you.” “Oh, my darling, I’ve done the same. Believe me. I’ve dreamed of each one of you separately and of all three of you together and I can’t separate my love for any of you. I love you all so much it hurts.” “I need to think about this, my princess. Who have you chosen to marry you legally?” “Chad. He’s the eldest.” That was a small white lie. She had extra feelings for Chad, but she could never tell Sam and Johnny about that. No way did she want to cause any jealousy between them. Chad being the eldest worked out just fine. “That makes sense. He’s the lucky one then who gets to take your virginity.” “Sam, darling, that’s no big deal. I’ve talked to women who are no longer virgins and they said it didn’t hurt like you read in books and that they didn’t even feel it breaking. Anyway, yes, it would mean I spend the first night only with Chad. The next day we would 172

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have a handfasting and that night I will spend with all three of you and the rest of our lives.” “Right now, I just want to be with you while we’re alone, love you and kiss you.” He was so sweet and so gentle. He loved her, massaged her breasts, sucked her nipples, all so gently, as if he was afraid she’d break. She fumbled with his belt, the zipper of his jeans until his cock sprang free. Casing it in her hand, she moved the skin back and forth. His kiss deepened, his hands became more urgent as he undid her jeans, pulled them down and stroked the folds between her legs. She carefully urged him to lie down, then stood and pulled her jeans off. She laid on top of him, her pussy facing his face, his cock throbbing and waiting for her lips. She licked it from top to bottom and back again while caressing his tight balls, the spot between sack and cock. She pressed down gently there knowing it was an erogenous zone for a man and she was right. He groaned. His fingers slid in and out of her until she moved up a little and was against his face. When she felt his tongue lick her folds, she moaned softly and took his cock into her mouth. His fingers spread her wide, his thumb on her clit as his tongue entered and he sucked the juices from her vagina. She took him fully into her mouth and sucked while she moved the skin back and forth with her hand. He started to shudder and she knew he’d come at any moment. She pulled away, not ready to swallow yet but continued to hand fuck him and within seconds, his semen spurted onto his belly at the same time as she came. They lay still for a little while until she finally rolled 173

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off him. “Do you have a tissue or something?” she asked and kissed him on the lips. She tasted her own juices on his lips and it acted as another aphrodisiac so she kissed him fully, passionately. “I love you, Sam,” she said softly when she pulled away. “And I love you so much, you’ll never know how much.” “Oh, I think I know. But do you love me enough?” “To do as you asked? To share you with my brothers? I think so, but I’m still not sure. I need time.” “We have all the time in the world, darling.” They kissed and petted until it was time to go back to the house. Hand in hand, they walked back, but when the house came in sight, Topaz pulled her hand away. “I need to talk to Johnny, Sam.” “I understand. I wonder if he’ll be able to get his head around all of this.” “Johnny does know that I love all three of you. I told him that a while ago. But I haven’t mentioned anything else. I didn’t know about the handfasting till Corky told me.” “Corky knows you love all of us?” “Yes. I can talk to her. After all, I don’t have my mother to talk to anymore.” “Wasn’t Corky shocked?” “No, not at all. I was quite surprised myself. I think my mother would have been shocked.” “What would your mother have told you to do?” “I have no idea. I doubt she’d have come up with the handfasting idea. And I have no idea how she’d feel about me making love to three men all at once. She and 174

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I rarely discussed sex. Mom was a little old fashioned that way.” They were home and Sam held the door open for her. “I have some work to take care of. We’ll talk later.” He glanced around, saw no one and quickly kissed her on the lips. “I love you.” Topaz sank down on a chair in the toasty-warm kitchen. Corky was working on dinner. “Would you like a cup of tea, Mizz Topaz?” “I’d love one. And I wish you’d stop the ‘miss’ business. Just call me Topaz? Please?” “You seem kinda lost right now, Missy. What’s wrong?” “Everything. I’ve got two men pondering the handfasting and if they can have me love them at the same time. I haven’t talked to Johnny yet. Both Sam and Chad have asked me to marry them.” “So now you need to talk to Master Johnny. You know, Missy, there’s one good thing about all of this. There’ll be only one mistress in the Douglas house.” “If all three had a wife, Sam and Johnny probably would move out and build their own house.” “Maybe. Who knows? If all goes well, there’ll be just one mistress here and that’s a good thing.” “Corky, isn’t there any extended family? Uncles and aunts, cousins?” “Oh, there are, but they’ve all moved out of state. They’ll more than likely be here for the wedding and you’ll get to meet the whole Douglas clan.” “Oh, yippee. I thought of just a small, private wedding.” “The family would never forgive Chad.” 175

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“What makes you think Chad is the one I’ll marry legally?” “I see more than you realize, Missy. You might love all three of those boys, but Master Chad tugs at your heartstrings the most.” “You’re very fast taking the place of my mother, Corky.” “Missy, no one can ever take her place.” “No, that’s not what I mean exactly, but I feel so comfortable talking to you and I can pour my heart out. And I don’t mind you calling me Missy. But no more Mizz Topaz. Please.” “Alright, Mi…Topaz. Sorry. Old habits don’t die easily. I never had a daughter and I’d love to adopt you as being mine.” That brought tears to Topaz’s eyes. She smiled through her tears, jumped up and hugged Corky. “Now, now, enough of that. Scoot, so I can finish cooking dinner. Go track down the baby of the family and shock him with your foursome proposal.” “Corky, you weren’t shocked. You suggested the handfasting.” “Missy, I’ve been around a long time and I’ve seen and heard just about anything and everything. Nothing much shocks this old lady anymore.” “Humbug. You’re not old. You’re going to be around to help me with my babies and watch them grow up. See you later.” She kissed Corky on the cheek and left the kitchen to go to her room to freshen up, at the same time wondering when she could talk to Johnny.

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Chapter Fourteen pigged out on Corky’s spaghetti, garlic bread Topaz and salad. After her third helping, she was sure she’d bust at the seams. Corky now ate at the table with them and she was spending more time and longer hours in the house. Topaz was glad, especially when she found out that Corky lived alone and that most of her family lived out of state. Some of them had come for a holiday at Christmas, that’s why she had to hurry home that afternoon. From now on, Topaz would make sure that Corky was never alone again and that she’d share special occasions with them. “I still can’t believe how much food you can put away,” Chad said, sending her a special grin and wink that reduced her to melted butter. He had stolen a kiss here and there and if he caught her alone asked if she’d talked to his brothers yet. She told him late in the afternoon that she’d managed to talk to Sam. “Corky’s cooking is amazing. She puts many a restaurant to shame. If I continue to eat this way, I’ll be the size of a house soon.” “You said your mother never gained weight,” Johnny said. 177

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“Yes. And until she became ill, she could eat as much as me.” “So what are we all up to tonight?” Sam asked. “Want to play monopoly?” “Lord, I haven’t played that in years.” “I have to do a stack of paperwork tonight,” Chad told them. “Sam, I need you to go look after that broken fence I spotted earlier on. We can’t have cattle wandering out on the road.” “Tonight?” “Yes. What’s wrong with that? You’ve done it at night plenty of times before.” “Well it’s no fun playing monopoly with just two people. I’ll help you, Sam,” Johnny offered. “No, that’s fine. It’s not a job for two people. I’ll do it.” After dinner, Chad disappeared into the study and Sam left to go fix the fence. Topaz was left alone with Johnny. This was the time to talk to him but not the right place. “Want to go for a walk, Johnny?” “It’s freezing out.” “So? I’m not made of porcelain. I want to go and see Daisy. She’s sick.” “I know. The vet says it’s not serious. She’ll be fine.” “I still want to go and see her. Want to come along?” “Yes, of course. Just wait while I go and get a sweater. And you’d better put on something warm, too,” he cautioned her. Topaz’s heart beat a staccato rhythm as she pulled a warm sweater over her head. Soon she’d know Johnny’s reaction. And then she had to wait while he 178

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thought about it all. So far, Sam hadn’t mentioned anything. Then again, he hadn’t had that much time to think yet. Eagerly, she went downstairs where she found Johnny already waiting for her. He looked incredibly handsome in a white turtleneck, knitted sweater. “That’s a lovely sweater, Johnny. Who knitted it?” “Corky. She’s got more than one talent.” “It’s fantastic. I hope she’ll knit me one.” “Just buy the wool and she’ll be happy to, I’m sure. Let’s go.” On the way to the stables, he took her hand. “I’ve so wanted to be alone with you, Topaz.” “Then why did you offer to help Sam?” “Usually we do things together. It’s kind of strange he wanted to do this one alone.” Topaz didn’t find it strange at all. She knew Sam wanted her to talk to Johnny and this was an excellent opportunity. And maybe Chad had sent Sam out on purpose as well. “Maybe he just wanted to do it alone. Who knows?” They had arrived at the stables. Johnny closed the door behind them. “It’s nice and warm in here.” “Yes, it is.” He held her hand while walking to Daisy’s stall. She quickly opened the stall door and saw the horse lying on her side. Topaz knelt beside her and stroked her while talking to her soothingly. Daisy lifted her head once and snorted a little as if to acknowledge the show of love. Topaz stroked and petted her until she closed her eyes and lay quietly sleeping, then she left the stall. Johnny was busy sweeping and cleaning up some of the 179

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stalls. “I really have to talk to the new stable hand we hired. He isn’t doing a good job in here.” “Did he have experience?” “Not really. He’s just a young lad.” “Then maybe you could show him the ropes?” “Right. Come here, you,” he said, throwing the broom aside and closing the door of the stall he’d been cleaning. He reached out and pulled her into his arms. “So, my precious darling, have you been able to sort out your feelings?” “Yes and no.” “You can’t be in love with all three of us. You’ll need to choose.” He pulled her tighter against him and kissed her on the forehead. “Johnny, I want to be with all three of you. I can’t make that choice, but I can marry the three of you and we can all be a family.” “That’s against the law.” “I’d have to marry one of you legally. Then the four of us can do a handfasting. It’s not recognized, but it’s done quite often and it binds us just as much. Have you heard of handfasting?” “Of course. I grew up with Corky. So, how can you be married to the three of us? You make love to Chad one night, Sam the next and then me the day following that?” She reached up and placed the palm of her hand on the side of his face and stroked him lovingly. “We can all be together. A ménage.” He kissed her then, long, sweet, lovingly, with all the love he felt in his heart. When he broke the kiss, he 180

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looked into her eyes for a very long time almost as if he was searching for answers deep in her heart, in her soul. “How would my brothers feel about that?” “I’ve already told them. Both Chad and Sam have asked me to marry them.” “Damn, you mean they’ve beat me to it? They always beat me at everything.” “Now you sound like a spoiled brat.” Topaz laughed. “It’s actually right. Chad asked me first, then Sam. And you haven’t asked me yet, but it’s all done in the right order, from oldest to youngest.” “I love you and yes, I want to marry you if you’ll have me. And if my brothers agree, I have no objection to the handfasting and the four of us making love together. But you’ll have to marry one brother first according to the law. Which one?” “Chad.” He nodded. “That makes sense. So Chad and Sam are completely in agreement? It’s actually quite an aphrodisiac to think about the three of us in bed with you.” “They’re both still thinking about it. You’re the only one who agreed immediately.” “Sweetheart, if it’s the only way I can have you, yes. And as I said, I’ve heard of people having ménages, but usually just out of sexual lust, orgies and all that. This would be a union of love. Completely different.” “Yes, because I love the three of you and all three of you love me. It’s not like the sexual excitement that people crave and do it because of that. Next time I talk to Chad and Sam, I’ll tell them you’re in agreement. Actually, it might be better if the three of you got 181

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together and talked. You might be brothers, but you’ve probably never engaged in sexual activities together. I mean a ménage.” Johnny had guided them to the bales of hay in the meantime and he pulled Topaz down onto his lap. “Actually, not quite that way, no. But we’ve gone out together many a time and there have been times when we’ve screwed a woman taking turns. And I use that term, because she was usually a slut. Or we’ve engaged in having sex with some girls all in the same room and exchanged partners. Don’t worry, we always wore protection. And obviously, we have no problem being naked in each other’s presence.” “You’re the only one who wasn’t shocked when I told you about the handfasting and ménage.” “I don’t shock easily and I don’t know why Sam and Chad would have been shocked. Not after everything we got up to when we were younger. But what will you do if Chad and Sam reject the handfasting and the three of us being with you?” “Hell, I don’t know. I love you all so much. I don’t even want to contemplate that right now. It would present me with a huge dilemma. Marry Chad and sleep with you and Sam on the sly? That’s probably what would happen in the long run. Or cause a rift between the three of you and have you move away? I don’t even want to think about it.” “Life does throw us some curve balls at times. Whoever would have thought that we three would fall in love with the same woman.” “And who would have thought I’d fall in love with three men? Heart, body and soul. So much that it hurts. 182

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It’s all too unbelievable.” “I’ll accept you unconditionally and I hope my brothers will, too. Now kiss me, my love. I’ve so longed for you,” he said and pulled her with him to lie down on the hay. They didn’t get naked. It was too dangerous in case one of the ranch hands came in, but they loved, kissed, fondled, laughed and teased. Topaz loved Johnny’s sweetness, his sense of humor and most of all, his young, carefree nature. He was wise, yet there was an innocence about him that she adored. Now, if only Chad and Sam could come to terms about sharing the woman they loved. While walking back to the house hand in hand, she thought about what life would be like being tied to three men. It wouldn’t be easy for her. She’d always have to make sure to show each man the affection he needed, to divide her attention equally between them, to share everything with all three of them, if she wanted harmony in her home. It would be much harder for her than it would be for them. They found Chad and Sam in the living room near the fireplace. Sam was kneeling down putting more wood on the fire. “Hey, you two. Where have you been?” Chad asked. “To the stables to see Daisy,” Topaz answered and it wasn’t a lie. But looking at Chad’s face, there was a question in his eyes. She nodded and smiled. He knew then that’s she’d talked to Johnny. “Johnny, before you make yourself comfortable, want to pour us some wine?” he asked holding his empty glass out to Johnny. 183

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Johnny nodded. “Want one, too, Topaz?” “Yes, please.” She sank into one of the armchairs near the fireplace and curled up in it. Suddenly, she realized how tired she was. Not just from the exercise she’d had that day, but all the emotions had taken their toll. “Did you call the sheriff today, Sam?” she asked. “Yes. Rachel and her father are out on bail. They confessed to everything, the cattle rustling, the kidnapping and she named the two hired hands she paid to kidnap you. Her father continues to hold steadfast to his claim he didn’t know anything about the rustling. The two thugs are in Mexico. They’re keeping a watch on their families in case they return. As long as they’re in Mexico, they’re safe.” “I have a confession to make,” Chad said. “I hired a private investigator to investigate you and your mother. He never found anything that you haven’t told us already and I phoned him the other day that he could stop his investigation. The one thing he did find out is that your mother and our mother went to school together and were close friends. That’s most probably how our father met your mother.” Topaz frowned, for a moment, her blood chilled at the thought of being investigated and a second of anger filled her heart but only a second. She kept her mouth shut and didn’t utter the retort she would have a couple of weeks ago. Instead, she thought why he would have done that and she knew why. “I understand. In your place, I would have been very suspicious as well. It’s rather interesting that our mothers were close friends. My mother never mentioned Isabella to me.” 184

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“From what the PI found out from some of your more distant family, your mother was heartbroken when her best friend died at such a young age. Wouldn’t there be pictures of them together?” “There might have been. But when I was five, the house we lived in burnt to the ground. Everything was gone and my mother had to start from scratch.” “I can’t imagine that. It would be devastating to lose everything,” Sam said. “Chad, remind me to start scanning all our old photos into the computer. I’ll put them on an external drive and we’ll put it in the safety deposit box.” “Good thought. It’ll be a nice project for winter evenings,” Chad said. “I believe there is a serious matter we need to talk about,” Johnny said, finally breaking the ice. “I’ll leave the three of you to talk.” Topaz started to get up from her chair. “No, you stay. This involves you after all,” Chad told her. “So, Johnny, you’ve proposed to our princess as well.” Johnny shifted uncomfortably and looked kind of wary. She surmised that he was probably feeling the same as her, wondering if Chad and Sam had made up their minds, or if everything would be blown to hell and back. “Sam, have you thought about Topaz’s plan?” “Yes. And if that’s the only way I can have her as my wife, then I’m all for it. It’ll be a first, the three of us in bed with one woman, but hey, I’m all for new and exciting things. That leaves you, Chad. What are your thoughts?” 185

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Chad rubbed the stubble on his chin. “I need a shave.” “Damn, never mind your beard. Tell us what you think,” Topaz snapped. “Oh, oh, she’s getting snappy,” he said. “Yes. If you two think it can work without us wanting to murder each other, then I’m in.” Topaz didn’t realize she’d held her breath waiting for his answer. She let it out now and felt as if a heavy weight had been lifted from her chest. Almost spilling her glass of wine, she jumped out of her chair and threw her arms around each of them and kissed them fully on the lips. “You’ve got no idea how happy you’ve made me,” she said and turned to pick up her glass of wine. “To us!” “To us,” they echoed in chorus, clinked glasses and sipped their wine. “And now there is a lot to plan. First, the legal wedding. Then the handfasting and God only knows who we’d invite to that one,” Chad said. “Sweetheart, we can’t make this public knowledge. The handfasting will be quiet. It’ll be between just the four of us. Corky will be there of course. To the world, we’ll be husband and wife and I have two very loving brothers-in-law who will remain bachelors for the rest of their lives according to the world. But we’ll know differently. A bond will grow between us that can’t be broken. A bond we’ll form as we unite and consummate our love for each other and as I bear children for all three of you. And just wait, I want lots and lots of kids!” “That’s something I hadn’t thought of,” Johnny said. 186

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“What are the kids going to call us? We can’t be uncle to our own kids.” “Chad and I already talked about that. Didn’t I call your father Daddy John? Our children can do the same. If anyone comes to visit, they won’t find it that strange. After all, you’re bachelors so the kids will be all of ours.” “It still all sounds very complicated to me. I wish we could just be open about it,” Sam said. “I want to be there when you have a baby, Topaz. I’m sure Chad and Johnny do, too. I doubt a hospital would allow three of us in the delivery room.” “Oh, they allow all sorts of things nowadays, whole families in the room. But who says I have to have the baby in a hospital? I can have it at home if all is well. That’s often done again. Midwives nowadays are a lot more knowledgeable than they were years ago.” Chad stopped the conversation about babies. “Okay, aren’t we jumping the gun here? For starters, Topaz isn’t pregnant and we have a wedding or two to plan.”

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Chapter Fifteen had given her was now on her finger. TheOnringher Chad other hand she word Sam’s ring. He had taken her to shop for it. It was an emerald with a diamond on either side. And Johnny had done something completely different. Topaz sat on the verandah enjoying a cup of coffee and thought back to that day just before New Year’s. “Honey, I’d like you to go shopping with me today,” Johnny said. “What are you going shopping for?” “Oh, I need some clothes and I want your opinion.” Topaz didn’t argue. She loved being with her men and she appreciated them wanting to involve her in everything. “Sure. I’ll finish my breakfast and will go up and change. I’ve been helping in the stables so I’m kind of dirty.” Once they were in the mall, he’d steered her to a jewelry store. “I’m going to buy you my engagement gift,” he said. To her amazement, the jeweler already knew why he was there and produced a red velvet box. Inside it was a beautiful gold slave bracelet with Celtic symbols 188

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engraved on it. When she took it out of the box, she saw the engraving on the inside. For all eternity, Johnny, it said. Johnny took it from her fingers and placed it on her wrist and nodded to the jeweler who asked her to step behind the counter into his little working cubicle. “I have to do this very carefully so not to burn you,” he said. “Do what?” “Solder this closed. You’ll never be able to take it off. It can only be cut off.” “Oh.” Still overwhelmed by the engagement gift, a ring that could never be broken, just like her wedding rings would be, she waited impatiently for the jeweler to finish his job. Once he was done, the band looked like it was endless, as if it had never had an opening. Outside the mall, she threw both arms around Johnny’s neck and kissed him on the lips. “Johnny, that is so unique. Who would have thought of it? It’s beautiful and it means just as much to me as the rings, if not more!” Johnny had beamed from ear to ear. And talk about the devil, “Hey, beautiful lady. Getting nervous yet?” “A little. Mainly about meeting all of your extended family.” “Ah, that’s no big deal. They’re a happy-go-lucky lot. Booking them all into a hotel instead of having them stay at the house will help. Imagine waking up to forty or so people and kids in the morning.” “Has that happened before?” “Oh, once in a while if a bunch of them decided to spend Christmas here. But not for quite a few years now.” 189

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“I’m so looking forward to our honeymoon. I’m still wondering if people won’t find it strange that the three of you all disappear at the same time. Chad and I supposedly on our honeymoon and you and Sam on a business trip?” “I don’t really give a damn what they think. Let them wonder.” “In just a few days, we’ll be married. It’s hard to imagine.” She held her wrist up and proudly looked at the gold slave bracelet. “This already ties me to you. You know that, don’t you?” Johnny smiled and kissed her. “Yes, my love. That was the whole purpose of it.” Chad joined them. He sipped his coffee and put an arm around his brother’s shoulders. “Okay you two, enough smooching. Plenty of time for that in a few days. We’ll have nothing else to do,” he told them both with a grin. Topaz looked at the two and felt her heart overflow with love. It’s almost as if the brothers were closer than ever now, as if loving the same woman had forged a stronger bond between them, a tie never to be broken. “Where’s Sam?” “Rescuing a stray cow,” Chad told her. “Whatever are you three going to do in the Caribbean?” she said, grinning from ear to ear. “You’ll be bored out of your minds.” “Oh, I have a few ideas to pass the time,” Chad said, ruffling her hair playfully. “Are you ready to meet all the relatives tonight?” “Uh, not really. I’m nervous about that.” “Hey, it won’t be bad. Just wait and see.” 190

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That evening, the night before the official wedding, Chad had arranged a pre-wedding dinner party at the hotel rather than the traditional stag some of their friends wanted to throw for him. Because of their unusual situation, they didn’t feel a stag was right. Chad’s best friend had argued and so had a few other buddies, but Chad remained firm. No stag. And he’d made them promise to behave at the dinner tonight. No hookers, no weird tricks, no girls jumping out of cakes and no getting wasted. He told her he’d never liked stags anyway and never saw the sense in a bridegroom getting so wasted that he had to be carried home and be totally hung over for his wedding the next day. Hell no, he wanted to be bright and bushy eyed and be able to perform on his wedding night. “Okay, what’s taking Sam so long? We need to start getting ready for tonight,” Topaz said. “I’ll go and see,” Johnny said. “I suppose I should go up and get ready.” Topaz sipped the last of her coffee and stood. When Chad’s arm slipped around her shoulders, she leaned into him. He felt so good, so right. His calming aura surrounded her and steadied her nerves. He’d be right there beside her that night and so would Sam and Johnny. Everything would be fine. The scent of lilacs and lily of the valley was overwhelming as she stepped into the house. Once you’d been inside for a while it wasn’t quite as strong, but stepping in from the outside, it was really very potent. She’d had no idea when Chad had asked what her favorite flowers were that he’d have them imported. And not just a few either. They were wound around the 191

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banister of the stairs, around the edge of the doorway and upon entering the living room, there were bouquets everywhere and garlands strung across the room and the dining room. A bower had been made especially for the occasion waiting to be moved outside the next day and it was, also, completely threaded with the flowers. Her bouquet and Corky’s was gorgeous. Corky’s dress was mauve and so the flowers suited it beautifully. Tiffy was her only bridesmaid. They had talked about flying some of her friends over, but she didn’t think it was worth it for the little time she’d have to spend with them and she had no close relatives. Also, her girlfriends weren’t stupid. They’d spot her love for the three brothers and she sure as hell didn’t want to deal with that. They were all catholic and handfasting would be dubbed as pagan, especially to three men. Sam was best man and Johnny groomsman. Tiffy’s little girl was her flower girl and she would look so adorable in her mauve dress that was trimmed with white lace, the skirt long and very full. She resembled a big doll. She was to carry a basket filled with lily of the valley and she had to drop them on the red runner leading to the bower. The forecast was for sunshine, but Chad had rented a huge tent just in case. Everything was ready outside just waiting to be put in place tomorrow. The reception would be outside as well. There were just too many guests for the mansion, as big as it was, to hold. It was to be the wedding of the year, Chad had told her. Topaz hurried up the stairs to her room. Even her room was decorated and had a vase of flowers on her nightstand. Her wedding dress was covered with black 192

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plastic, hidden from curious eyes. There was still plenty of time so she took her time showering. Adrenaline rushed through her and she doubted she could even sleep that night. More than ever, she wished her mother could be there with her. The shower washed her tears away, but the sadness remained within her. There would be an empty spot today, one that could not be filled by anyone. For the first time, she wore the black dress she’d originally bought for Christmas and the black highheeled shoes. After pinning her hair into a chignon and looking at her reflection in the mirror, she decided she would pass. Her necklace that Chad had given her was the last touch, except she had added her locket to it. Her mother couldn’t be there, but she could wear her picture close to her heart. A dab of perfume behind her ears, on her wrists and she was ready and headed for the stairs wondering if the men were ready to go. She need not have worried. All three were ready and waiting for her in the living room. Dressed in black pants and white dinner jackets, they looked ready to step off the cover of a romance magazine. Stopping to stare at them for a moment, she was filled with pride that these were her men. “Is something wrong?” Johnny asked. “No. I just stopped to admire my three handsome men who look like models. Right now, I have you all to myself. In a bit, I’ll have to share you with how many others? And how many single ladies will be there throwing themselves all over you two?” She glared at Sam and Johnny. 193

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“Ah, do I detect a hint of jealousy?” Chad chided. “I’m not jealous,” she defended herself. “Not a jealous bone in my body.” Not true, a little inner voice told her. You’ll be green if any woman throws herself at them. Yes, she had to admit it. But that’s something that couldn’t be avoided. Not without telling the world that these men were hers. “Time to go. You look absolutely stunning, sweetheart,” Chad complimented her. “Yup, good enough to eat,” Sam agreed. “Which I can’t wait to do.” Topaz felt blood rush to her face. “Yes, you look lovely, darling,” Johnny said. “Sorry for not telling you sooner, but you kind of took me aback with your compliment.” “Well, it’s true. Any one of you could be on the cover of a romance magazine or a romance novel and make thousands of women drool.” Topaz had never been one for crowds and how she got through the evening, she had no idea. Her head spun with names she couldn’t put faces to anymore, people talking to her all at once, questions thrown at her. One woman, she had no idea who she was, even had the gall to ask loudly if she and Chad were getting married because of the upheaval about the inheritance. “Never mind her,” Chad whispered. “That’s my great aunt Betsy and she’s into everyone’s business. She’s got absolutely no tact.” “Well, of course, Aunt Betsy. I am marrying Topaz so I can get our inheritance back. Isn’t that obvious? Now why she’s marrying me is the million-dollar question. Do you have the answer to that?” 194

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That shut the woman up. Topaz giggled. “I guess she has to think long and hard before she can answer that one. I suppose the word love isn’t in her vocabulary,” she told Chad softly. As she’d predicted, the single women who were there, mainly friends the men had grown up with, were all over Sam and Johnny as if they were covered with honey. Some danced a little too close for Topaz’s liking, hung around their necks too much, writhing their bodies against them while dancing, but she couldn’t do anything about it, of course. When they were in public or at some function, it’s something she’d have to get used to. Some of them even had the gall to flirt with Chad still, even though he was the one getting married the next day and that really got to her. It was as if they couldn’t accept the fact that Chad Douglas wasn’t and wouldn’t be available anymore. Just after eleven, Chad told her they should be going home. “It’s a big day tomorrow. We all need a good night’s rest.” “I doubt I’ll be able to sleep.” “Honey, when we get home, I’ll mix you a good, strong drink. That should help you to dreamland.” On the way home, Topaz asked, “Sam, Johnny, you looked like you were having a lot of fun this evening. Do either of you have any regrets? I mean, I saw how many young women threw themselves at you. Does it bother you giving up your freedom? Handfasting might not be legal, but it’s a bonding just like Chad’s and my marriage.” Sam was the first to respond. “Honey, don’t ever doubt my feelings for you. The love I have in my heart 195

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and soul I couldn’t possibly feel for another woman. You’re my soulmate.” “Princess, you’ve got me for life and beyond. Never forget that. All other women pale beside you and like Sam, I love you more than life itself,” Johnny said and reached over the seat to caress her neck. As soon as they arrived home, Chad poured Topaz a stiff whisky. When she almost gagged on the liquid, he quickly added some 7-Up to it. “That tastes better,” she said with a grimace. “But I still don’t like it much.” “Doesn’t matter. It’ll help you to sleep,” Johnny said. Taking a deep breath, Topaz drank it down as fast as she could and shuddered. No, definitely not a drink she could ever get used to. “I guess I should go to my room now, even if I don’t want to. It’s bad luck for the groom to see the bride after midnight.” Chad was the last one she passionately kissed goodnight and reluctantly stepped out of his arms. “Goodnight, my loved ones,” she said softly while she made her way to the stairs. **** “How about another nightcap, little brothers?” Chad said while he closed the door of the living room. They nodded and he poured them all another whiskey. The embers in the fireplace still glowed and shot off a spark every now and then. They sat quietly in the dark, each lost in their own thoughts, sipping their drinks, until Sam broke the silence. “We haven’t really 196

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had much of a chance to be alone since all this was set in motion. Now that we are, how do the two of you feel, really feel?” “What do you mean, Sam?” Chad asked. “There is this little bit of fear gnawing at my stomach that Topaz will get sick of dealing with three husbands and making love to the three of us. That the demands of three men will become tiring for her, that she’ll want to end it all.” Johnny looked at Sam thoughtfully. “You know, Sam, though we’ve really known Topaz only a short while, it seems I’ve known her a lifetime and before. I solemnly believe that it was meant to be. Maybe we were all her husbands in a previous life. At times, I get the feeling of déjà vu, as if I’ve experienced something similar before, a same love. Maybe she and I were together in another life, but I don’t know if the two of you believe in reincarnation.” “I didn’t believe in life after death either...until recently,” Chad told them. Sam and Johnny looked at him curiously. “You mean as in ghosts?” Sam asked. “Yes. I might as well tell you now. Ever since the night I lost it and hurt Topaz, I hear Father’s voice. He talks to me. Matter of fact, he called me a jackass that night.” “That’s one of Father’s expressions,” Johnny said. “Really, Chad? You can hear Father?” “Yes. I thought I was losing it at first, but he talks to me fairly regularly now. I’m almost getting used to it.” “Wow,” was all Sam could say. “What does he think of all this? Topaz marrying and 197

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loving the three of us?” Johnny asked. “Now, that one he hasn’t commented on yet. I’ve been expecting him to, but nothing. He told me about the shack in the mountains, where to find Topaz that night and that she was okay. And I know now why he made up a will. It was all because he wanted her to meet us and he hoped one of us would fall in love with her and marry her. Well, he accomplished that.” “Now the new will makes sense.” Johnny nodded and finished his drink. “I could stand another one after this revelation. I wish I could hear Father. I quite often talk to him in my thoughts. Can he hear what you think?” “He told me he could. He proved it to me by answering my thoughts.” “Oh shit, that means he can hear everything we think.” Chad laughed. “I haven’t talked long enough with him to know exactly what life after death holds, but I doubt he’s sitting beside us twenty-four seven listening to our thoughts and watching our every move.” Johnny shivered. “Just the thought of Father sitting on the edge of the bed watching us as a foursome gives me the damn creeps.” Sam had refilled their glasses in the meantime and handed each his glass. “It does me, too. We’ll just have to try and put that out of our mind. If he does sit and watch us, all I can say is that he’ll get his jollies out of it.” “Or be thoroughly disgusted. He was always a onewoman man,” Chad muttered. “Fuck you, son. I was only in my fifties when I 198

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kicked the bucket. I’ve been around in my time. Believe me, what you’re planning is not something that only happens in this day and age. In the olden days, it was just not as openly talked about, written about and neither could you see it in movies.” “Father? Sam and Johnny want to know what you think about the three of us marrying Topaz,” Chad said aloud. “He’s here now? Talking to you?” Johnny asked. “Yes, he suddenly gave me his opinion.” “I think it’s fantastic. I hoped one of you would end up marrying my little gal. I never considered all three of you falling for her. The three of you had better treat her right. I’ll be here watching you.” “We will. So we have your blessing?” “You do, son. I’ll be at your wedding tomorrow and the joining on Sunday. And you can tell your little gal that I’ve got my own ménage going here. Your sweet mama and Juanita are here with me and they’ll be at the ceremonies as well. Tell her, Chad. She’ll be so happy to hear that. Also, that her mama has been trying to communicate with her. Topaz needs to relax more and maybe she can hear her mama then.” “Damn, I was far from relaxed when you talked to me.” “You were born gifted. Not everyone has that gift.” “Then why haven’t I ever heard anyone else?” “You did as a youngster, but then you hardened your heart and closed your mind to it.” “And I’m here, my sweet boy, I always have been,” a female voice spoke, although very softly, so soft that Chad had to strain to hear it. 199

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“Mama?” “Yes, muffin, it’s me. I’ve always been with the three of you.” “Tell Topaz I love her and I’ll be with her tomorrow,” another female voice said. “Son, I’m glad you stopped the investigation. There is something I need to tell you. We know Topaz would dearly love to know who her father is. It’s best she never knows that she was conceived because Juanita was attacked and raped brutally. Even Juanita doesn’t know who fathered her baby or who the rapists were. She bore her shame in silence, but when she found out she was pregnant, she wanted her baby and loved her from the moment she felt the first stirring in her womb. That’s when she contacted me and confided the rape. She needed to talk to someone outside her friends. I flew to Mexico and helped her through everything and was with her when Topaz was born. A little baby was never as loved as our little princess. If Topaz knew the truth, she’d be devastated, if not for herself, but for her mother. I fell in love with Juanita then. She had so much courage and dignity, and I see all those qualities in Topaz, and more. So now you know, and you’ll probably agree with me that this knowledge is best kept secret.” Chad digested this information for a few moments. Father, she’ll always wonder. Wouldn’t it be better if she—” “No, definitely not. Maybe later in life, but we’ll talk again then.” The voices faded. All this time Sam and Johnny had listened in awe. “So, what did he say?” Johnny finally 200

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asked eagerly. “And was that really our mother?” Chad was choked with emotion. Hearing his mother’s voice had really affected him. He’d almost forgotten what she sounded like. Muffin, she’d always called him that. He grimaced at being called that at his age. He swallowed hard and wiped a tear from his cheek. “Yes, that was Mama.” “I’m jealous,” Sam said. “I wish I had a psychic gift. So what did Father say?” “He approves. Says he has his own little ménage right where he is with Mama and Juanita. And they both spoke, too. That’s the first time I’ve heard other voices, besides Father. Juanita gave me a message for Topaz. I wonder if she believes in psychic phenomena and life after death.” “You can’t go and tell her now. It’s way past midnight,” Johnny said. “You’ll be jinxing everything.” “You don’t really believe in that crap, do you?” Sam asked. “Well, no, but it’s a tradition not to see the bride after midnight. It’s supposed to be bad luck.” “I’ll tell her tomorrow, as soon as I get a chance.” “Chad, you won’t see her until she walks down the aisle,” Johnny reminded him. “There’ll be a chance at the reception where I’ll pull her away to a quiet spot and I’ll tell her then. She needs to know. She misses her mother terribly right now.” “Understandable,” Sam said. “She told me she was very close to her mother. “I’m going to bed,” Chad said. “See you in the morning.” Sam and Johnny finished their drinks. “Yes, I’m 201

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turning in, too.” “Goodnight, guys,” Sam said. “I’m glad we had this talk and I’m even more glad that Father gives us his blessing. Come here, a brother hug.” With that, he pulled his two brothers into a threesome embrace.

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Chapter Sixteen whiskey hadn’t helped much to fall asleep and TheTopaz’s night was restless. She kept waking up thinking it was time to get ready. When she finally saw the hands of the clock on the nightstand move to seven, she jumped out of bed. She should have been tired, but instead, she was eager to get going, full of excited energy and starving. Corky had admonished her several times that she wasn’t to leave her room that day, not until it was time for Terry to come knocking on the door to bring her downstairs and give her away to her future husband. Tears rolled down her cheeks. If only Daddy John could have been there to give her away. No time for tears, she thought. This is a happy day. “I’m going to go stir crazy being bound to this room much of the day,” she said aloud. The wedding ceremony was at four in the afternoon, and the reception right afterward. She was sure the festivities would go on till very late in the evening. Topaz walked to the French doors and opened them to a clear blue sky and sunshine. Even the weather was cooperating. There was a knock on the door and she hurried to put on her robe. “Yes, come in,” she called 203

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out, hoping it was Corky, but then remembered that Corky was forbidden to do anything that day. A strange girl entered, a young brunette, all dressed in black and wearing a frilly white apron. “Your breakfast, Miss,” she said and placed the tray on the coffee table in front of the fireplace. “Thank you. What’s your name?” “Sally, Miss.” “Thanks, Sally. I notice there’s no coffee on the tray. Think you could bring me a large mug? Two sugars and cream, please.” “Yes, Miss. I’ll be back shortly. Sorry about that.” Breakfast consisted of poached eggs, toast, jam and butter, a bowl of fruit salad, a glass of milk, a glass of tomato juice and tea. It sure wasn’t one of Corky’s breakfasts, but she was so hungry, anything would taste good right now. Sally returned quite fast with a steaming mug filled with coffee. “Ah, just what I need. Sally, I like several cups of coffee in the morning. Maybe you can make fresh coffee and fill a thermos and bring it here with cream and sugar? And at lunch, I like my tea but make it a pot, please? And I don’t take cream or milk in my tea.” “Sure, Miss. If you need anything, just ring.” Topaz was glad she at least had a TV in her room. She’d never watched it in her room before, hadn’t needed to, but now at least it would divert her and pass the time. She had some books but wasn’t much into reading right now. The hairdresser wouldn’t arrive until eleven. Oh, I’d give anything to go for a ride after breakfast. Can I climb down from the balcony? Would 204

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anyone see me? After wolfing down her breakfast, she jumped up and went to inspect the balcony. Making sure first that Chad, Sam or Johnny weren’t outside, she hung over the railing. Too far to jump, but there was the tree. Inspecting the branch that was so close to the balcony, she saw it was thick enough to support her weight. She’d climbed plenty of trees in the past and saw no reason why she couldn’t now. After dressing quickly, she brushed her teeth, braided her hair, then thought to write a note before the catering staff alerted everyone in panic and put it beside the tray. I’ll be back soon. Don’t worry, I’ve just gone outside for a bit. Topaz. Again, she scanned the area for any sign of the men or other activity, but all seemed clear. Carefully, she grabbed the branch and swung over the railing. The branch creaked a little under her weight but held. Once she was near the trunk, her feet found a thick branch and she was able to make her way down. She hadn’t forgotten how to climb trees. When her feet touched solid ground, she scanned the area again but nothing. She crept along the wall to the side of the house. Out back, everything was quiet as well. Not even any of the ranch hands were around. Then again, Chad had given everyone the day off. The ranch hands and their families were invited, too. Some of them had worked for the Douglas family for years and their fathers before them. She sprinted to the stables and quickly entered them and saddled Daisy who nuzzled her affectionately. “Sorry I haven’t been to see you lately, girl, but I’ve 205

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been so busy the last days. How about a quick ride to the river? Are you into that?” Before she led Daisy out of the stables, she quickly looked outside. No one. Trying to be as fast as possible, she led Daisy out, closed the doors, jumped into the saddle and took off. Spurring Daisy on, they raced off the property toward the forest. She hoped no one had heard them. The ride relaxed her more than any glass of whiskey ever could. When she got to the river, she quickly took off her clothes and stepped into the icy water. It was freezing, but she didn’t care. Her skin puckered and it took her a bit to step into the water completely, but once she was in and her body was accustomed to the temperature, it felt heavenly. She swam with swift strokes back and forth, then floated on her back for a while thinking about the day to come and about the night afterward. That night she’d finally know what it was to be a woman, to be completely and fully loved by the man of her dreams. She just wished that all three could have been there tonight, but that just wasn’t possible yet. For that, she’d have to wait till the next day. Her libido surged. Even the icy water didn’t help to calm it down. No time for that now, she decided and swam to shore. Of course, she hadn’t brought a towel. Damn. Well, her first thought hadn’t been on swimming but just to escape from the house for a bit, to unwind and relax before the busy day started. She picked up her watch from the pile of clothes and frowned. If she didn’t get dressed and hurry back, she’d be seen when she returned. Well, it didn’t really matter if any of the hired 206

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people saw her. As long as she didn’t run into her men. As she’d suspected, by the time she rode back onto the property, it was a beehive of activity. There were people everywhere. Somehow, she managed to sneak Daisy back into the stables without attracting too much attention. After she’d taken off the saddle, hung it up and brushed Daisy, she looked at her watch again. Not too long before eleven. The hairdresser would be there soon and if Corky had arrived, she’d be frantic. Now to get to the front of the house and climb back up the tree. That would be a major problem because that’s where most of the activity was. The ceremony and reception was going to be held in the front gardens. Scanning the stables, she saw an old jacket hanging on a hook and a cowboy hat. “Ha, just what I need,” she muttered and quickly put it on making sure her braid was hidden and pulled the hat deep over her eyes. This time she wasn’t as cautious when she left the stables and walked back to the house casually, trying to walk more like a man. She gasped when she got to the front of the house. The gardens had been transformed into a field of flowers, the scent of lilacs drifting toward her on the wings of the wind. The tent wasn’t necessary that day as the weather was glorious. The bower and makeshift altar were all ready, a red runner leading to them. A few hundred rented chairs stood neatly placed on either side, the outer chairs all had a beautiful bouquet of lilacs and lily of the valley tied together with a large lilac ribbon attached to the sides. It was absolutely breathtaking. But she had no time to ponder. How to get to the tree without anyone noticing was her main 207

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concern now. As luck would have it, someone dropped something and the people closest to her balcony and the tree scurried over to assist. Quick as a flash she ran to the tree, jumped up and grabbed the branch and pulled herself up. Carefully, she let herself drop while holding onto the last branch near her balcony and one hand at a time moved carefully along it until she could jump over the railing. “Phew, that was a feat,” she mumbled and hurried inside to be met by a loud scream. It was Corky who stumbled on her feet and looked like she was about to faint. Topaz yanked the hat off her head and ran to Corky’s side to grab her. “Corky, it’s me, Are you alright?” “Heavens to Betsy. Don’t you ever go doing that to me again, Missy. You nearly gave me a heart attack. Whatever were you thinking of taking off like that? You had me worried out of my mind and I couldn’t tell the boys that you’d gone missing.” “I wasn’t missing, Corky. I left a note.” “Yes, but I was still worried sick. No woman goes and does stuff like that on her wedding day and you’re too old to be climbing trees. And dressing up as a man scaring me half to death. Shame on you, child.” “Never too old. I’m fine and I don’t think anyone saw me. I just needed to get out, Corky, needed some alone time, to be with Mother Nature. I’m good now. It really helped to go for a ride.” “Good Lord, you went riding? What if something had happened?” “Nothing happened. I rode sweet, gentle Daisy. I even went for a swim.” 208

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“Are you aiming to get sick on your honeymoon? Mi…Missy, you’re gonna give me gray hair.” “You already have gray hair, Corky. Forgive me?” Topaz hugged her and was sorry she’d scared her. At the same time, someone knocked on the door. It was the hairdresser followed by the aesthetician, two men who brought in all her portable gear and Tiffy, who still had a towel wound around her head. The men left the room and the hairdresser, whose name was Marian, started first on Tiffy. Tiffy looked lovely with her hair done in a bob and subtle makeup and Corky looked every inch the lady. Her hair was an updo in an old-fashioned style. Topaz was last and by the time Marian’s swift fingers were finished with her, she hardly recognized the image in the mirror that stared back at her. Suzy, the aesthetician, tackled her next. While Suzy was busy with Topaz, Corky and Tiffy put on their gowns, then uncovered Topaz’s gown and opened the box that held the bridal veil and tiara. “I can’t wait to see you in this dress, Missy,” Corky said, stroking the skirt. Suzy was finished with Topaz’s makeup and concentrating on her fingernails so she could look at Corky and Tiffy. “Oh my, you two look beautiful. Have you looked in the mirror?” “I feel very overdressed, Missy. This dress is too fancy for the likes of me.” “Nonsense. Look at yourself, Corky. You look lovely.” Corky hesitantly stood beside Topaz and inspected her reflection in the mirror. “Oh boy, is that really me?” 209

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Tiffy’s and Corky’s gowns were identical. Topaz had chosen the princess-style pattern because it would slim down Corky’s stout figure and it did. The dresses were fairly plain in style but accented by deep purple embroidery around the neck and just under the breasts, dotted with sparkling mauve rhinestones. They were sleeveless and had a square neckline. At the back, the neckline dipped and just at the V a deep purple gathered train hung to the hem, hiding the zipper. Their hair was adorned with lily of the valley. Corky proudly wore the golden cross Topaz had given her at Christmas and no way would she put on the necklace she’d bought for her and Tiffy for the wedding. Tiffy gasped at the gold chain and the amethyst pendant with matching bracelet and earrings. “Mizz Topaz, you shouldn’t have. Is it real?” “Yes, of course. Put them on. It’ll be the finishing touch. Corky, you can at least wear the bracelet and earrings.” Silently, she wondered if she’d ever break Corky and Tiffy from using Mizz. “I have something for you, too, Missy. It was mine and I wore it on my wedding day.” She hurried to her day clothes and came back with a blue garter in her hand. “Something borrowed, something blue.” “Thank you, Corky. I’ll wear it with pride. Now I just need the other two, something old, something new.” “That’s taken care of, too. Just wait a minute.” Again, she dove into her deep apron pockets and came back carrying a beautiful rosary. It sparkled in a ray of sunshine that caught the crystal beads, the silver cross shone as if it had just been polished. “That belonged to 210

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Mistress Isabella. Master Chad asked me to give it to you. That’s your something old. He also told me to give you this.” Corky took the small velvet box from Corky. When she opened it, she had to control her emotions. It was a brooch designed especially with Chad, Sam and Johnny in mind. Four gold rings intertwined inside a gold heartshaped border dotted with small amethysts. “My something new.” The only other jewelry she would wear was her gold chain, medallion and locket and gold earrings that she had already put on. Suzy was finally finished with Topaz’s nails just when lunch arrived for all of them. It was a light lunch because after the ceremony there would be a full smorgasbord dinner served. Topaz hardly felt hungry now. They laughed and chatted while they ate carefully, so not to disturb their makeup too much, but Marian and Suzy were on standby to do any necessary fixes. By three, Topaz finally decided to put on her gown with Corky and Tiffy’s help. She’d given Marian her camera to command and she snapped pictures of the struggle to get into the dress without mucking up her hair. Once she was in it, the zipper done up, she walked to the mirror and gasped. It was her fairytale dream come true. The dress was designed especially for her and her love for Gone with the Wind. The skirt was very full and ballooned out over the hooped underskirt. Layers of fine satin overlapped edged with handmade four-inch lace. The last ruffle was completely made of sixteen-inch wide lace. The bodice was plain satin with a deep neckline and small, puffed, off-the-shoulder sleeves. The neckline was embroidered with a white 211

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floral design and accentuated with white crystal beads. Last, she pinned the brooch on the bodice. Marian handed the camera to Suzy so she could put on the tiara with the twenty-five-foot-long veil attached to it. Topaz’s hairstyle was designed so the tiara would fit around the front of the curls piled on her head and the veil was attached at the back just underneath the curls, with a short veil that had to cover her face. She was ready, finally, and it was almost time for Terry to knock on the door. “Missy, I want to wish you all the happiness life can bring you,” Corky said, holding both of Topaz’s hands. “Be good to my boys, although I have no doubt you will,” she added softly. Then she carefully hugged Topaz and kissed her on the cheek. “Thank heaven for stay-on, no smudge lipstick,” Topaz quipped while wiping away a few tears and having Suzy hover over her to make sure her eye makeup was intact. Terry knocked on the door and Corky opened it to let him in. He was dressed in a black tuxedo and looked very stately. “Boy, Terry, I hardly recognized you,” Topaz said. “What a change from jeans and cowboy shirts and hats. You clean up nicely.” “Now, do I take that as a compliment or an insult?” he grumbled but smiled. Taking her hand, he squeezed it. “Topaz, I’m so pleased at this turn of events. This is what John had in mind when he changed his will and the whole reason and purpose behind it. He made me swear not to tell anyone and I kept my word. He wanted life to run its natural course, which he assured me it would. He was absolutely convinced that one of his 212

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boys would fall in love with you. I wish you all the happiness in the world, child, and I’m honored you asked me to give you away.” “Wow, that was quite a speech and I’m astounded at Daddy John’s scheming, but at the same time glad he did.” “Shall we go and join your future husband?” Corky handed her the bouquet of lilacs and lily of the valley and she wound the rosary around the stems so that most of it would dangle down. Terry held out his arm and Corky opened the door wide for them. Corky and Tiffy followed to take care of the veil, to make sure it didn’t catch on anything. At the front door, Tiffy’s little girl started first, spreading her flowers over the red runner. The little doll drew a lot of awws and ahhs from the female guests. Tiffy followed soon after and a minute later, Corky. The guests all stood. Topaz’s heart beat so hard and loud she thought for sure others could hear it. All the chairs were filled and there was a throng of guests standing. As they started down the steps, a sea of faces turned to the bride and she felt overwhelmed for a moment. Cameras flashed, several news reporters had been invited. The photographer Chad had hired took photo after photo as she walked down the red carpet on Terry’s arm. Topaz shook off the overwhelmed feeling and focused on the three men waiting for her at the altar. She only had eyes for them now. They looked so handsome in their white tuxedos, mauve ruffled shirts and deep purple bow ties. If she’d thought them handsome before, today they were absolutely out of this world. 213

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“Who has the honor of presenting this woman to be married to his man?” “I do.” Terry placed her hand in Chad’s and she finally felt safe as he led her to stand before the priest. The words went by in a haze until she had to say her vows. For someone who had never spoken in public before, it was a scary experience. Topaz swallowed hard and kept her gaze locked on Chad whose eyes looked at her with all the love he felt. Placing both her hands in his, she started. “Chad, I promise to give you the best of myself and to ask no more of you than you can give. We were born to be together and together we shall be forever more even when the wings of death scatter our ways. Let us love one another but not make a bondage of love. Let it rather be a moving sea between the shores of our souls. I promise to laugh with you, cry with you, to be your faithful partner during good times and bad. To love you unconditionally, to love and adopt your family as my very own and to cherish your forever, now and into eternity. “Chad?” His deep voice was clear, without a tremor. “Topaz, I promise to be your lover, your companion and your best friend. I shall always stand steadfast at your side no matter what obstacles life may hurl at us. I want to share with you the joys of parenthood. I feel truly blessed and today I commit my life to you. As our journey begins this day, I promise to give you the best of what I have from now until the end of time. I will love you in good times and bad and will let you in through the window of my soul to share with you my deepest secrets, fears and dreams. We are now of one 214

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heart, one soul, one mind and one body. The circle of our love can never be broken or undone. Topaz tried desperately not to cry. They weren’t tears of sadness but rather tears of joy, of utter and complete happiness, although her happiness wouldn’t be complete until the other ceremony had been performed with Sam and Johnny. “You may now kiss the bride.” Chad lifted the veil from her face and taking her into his arms, kissed her passionately. The guests clapped, some yelled. When they broke apart, they stood silently for a few moments holding hands, then turned to face the guests. “Ladies and gentleman, may I present Mr. and Mrs. Douglas.” The band started to play one of her favorite songs. Maybe she was old fashioned, but she loved Elvis’s song It’s Now or Never. She felt the words held so much meaning and she’d told Sam that once. He’d remembered. Before they started down the aisle, Sam and Johnny quickly stepped up and hugged them both. The four of them stood quietly, their arms around each other. Johnny kissed her fully on the lips and so did Sam who whispered, “Before everyone else converges on you two.” They walked down the aisle while the guests clapped. The cameras had never stopped flashing, but she’d hardly noticed. When they walked to the table for the wedding party, she looked up at Chad. “I don’t feel any different. Do you?” “No, are we supposed to?” He laughed heartily. Cocktails were served and hors d’ouvres. Topaz lost 215

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count of how many people congratulated them, how many kissed her. It seemed endless. At least until dinner was ready. After dinner, they cut the cake. They’d requested that speeches were to be kept to a minimum and everyone kept their word and then the band struck up and the dancing finally began. It was near eleven and her feet felt numb when Chad found her, rescued her from the dance floor and said they should leave for the hotel. A thrill coursed through her. Soon, she would be away from all this turmoil and in his arms. Their suitcases were already loaded as well as the clothes she was to wear for the handfasting ceremony the next day. She escaped but not without people stopping her, guests wanting to dance with her. Somehow, she managed to get inside the house and upstairs to her room where the first thing she did was sink down on her bed. She’d not realized that Corky had followed her and was glad, because she could not get out of the wedding gown by herself. “Oh, Corky, I’m so tired but so happy,” she said. “I can see it in your eyes, Missy. After tomorrow, everything will be perfect.” “Yes, it will,” she murmured dreamily. “You’d best get up and change before you fall asleep. You can’t do that on your wedding night,” Corky said, sending her a wide grin. “Oh, I won’t last the night, Corky. I’ll probably fall asleep right in the middle of Chad making love to me.” “I doubt that,” Corky said as she helped Topaz out of the veil and gown. 216

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She hadn’t bought a special going away outfit and wore just a pair of dress jeans, a nice top and a sweater. It was cold out. Chad had rented outdoor heaters, so the guests were warm enough as they partied the night away. “Well, I guess I’d best go down and join my husband,” Topaz said. “I’ll see you tomorrow, Corky.” As a last thought, she picked up her bouquet that she had to throw yet. Passing the dining room, she saw the enormous pile of gifts on the table, beneath it and around it. “Wow, Corky. We’ll deal with those when we return from our honeymoon. Just leave them there.” Chad came downstairs just after her and grabbed her hand. “Ready to go, Mrs. Douglas?” “Yes, Sir.” They stood at the top of the steps and waited for Corky to join the guests. The bandleader announced their departure and the guests thronged at the bottom of the steps, especially the women. Topaz smiled and turned her back to them. She held the bouquet up high, then tossed it as hard as she could. When she turned around, she saw an amazed Corky holding it in both hands, her expression worth a million dollars. Topaz giggled. “See who caught it, Chad? Won’t that be something?” “Hell, if that happens, I’ll throw her the wedding of the year,” Chad said, grinning broadly.

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Chapter Seventeen slid the card through the slot and the door Chad clicked open. He had taken the bridal suite for two nights and had made special arrangements ahead of time. He wanted this night to be extra special for her. This was the night she had saved herself for. Oh, she’d come close several times she admitted, but only with him, Sam and Johnny. He felt honored that he was the one she’d give her virginity to that night, not that it was overly important to him, but it had been important to Topaz all these years. He’d ordered a thousand large candles to be scattered throughout the room and to be lit at midnight. And they were. Like the wedding, the room was decorated with vases of lilacs and lily of the valley. Garlands of the fragrant flowers were wound around the posts of the four-poster king-size bed, along the foot and headboards, at the top of the drapes. A bucket filled with ice and two bottles of champagne stood ready on the table, along with a large basket of fruit and other delectable food products, compliments of the hotel. It had all cost him a fortune, especially to import the flowers overnight so they would be fresh for the 218

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wedding. The florist had worked overtime on it all and kept everything refrigerated until today. His Topaz was worth every penny. He’d buy her the world if she wanted it and so would Sam and Johnny. He was glad he had his own bank account. Now that several accounts and assets were frozen and he was only allowed an allowance to run the ranch until everything was settled, it was difficult enough. But he’d put away quite a bit himself, as had Sam and Johnny and all three of them had invested wisely in stocks and bonds and RRSP certificates and his father had left them a nice life insurance policy that was made out directly to the three of them and paid out almost immediately. “Oh, Chad, it’s wonderful. Thank you, my darling. You’ve made this whole day so special for me and now this. It’s the end of a beautiful dream wedding.” “Honey, it’s only the beginning of our dreams.” “I’m going to go and change into something more comfortable.” He took off his own clothes and kept only his boxer shorts on. He knew she’d probably appear in a lovely negligee, but she wouldn’t have it on for long. He smiled at that thought. Why do women even bother with those frilly things? She didn’t take long and when she walked out of the bathroom, he had to admit to himself that this frilly thing was sexier than hell, especially since it wasn’t a photo and walked toward him. Quickly uncorking a champagne bottle, he poured them each a full flute. “Cheers, darling, and if I haven’t told you how beautiful you are, I’m telling you now. I was so proud of you today! You are and were the most stunning bride 219

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in the world.” He linked his arm through hers and raised his glass to his lips. They drank the first champagne down quite fast. Both were thirsty. He refilled the glasses, took her glass and put them both on the nightstand, then took her hand and pulled her to the bed. “I hate to take this pretty outfit off, but I’m going to,” he murmured against her neck as he rained little kisses along her neck, down her chest, to stop at her now-bared breasts. Taking a nipple in his mouth, he pulled the rest of the nightgown off. It whispered softly to the floor. His cock throbbed, pulsed against his stomach, strained against the material of the boxer shorts. He peeled them down with his free hand while he continued to suckle her nipples and then pulled her into his arms. “I’m so sleepy and tired,” she murmured. “Too tired to make love?” “Too tired for acrobatics. My feet are sore and all I want to do is relax.” It almost sounded like she was making excuses not to make love that night. Does she want to wait till tomorrow night? Until Sam and Johnny can be present when I take her virginity? Though he had vowed never to be jealous of his brothers, a wave of it now attacked him. “You fool!” His father’s voice startled him. “What are you doing here?” “Mmm? What do you mean, Chad?” Topaz asked sleepily. “Of course I’m here, silly. I’m your wife.” She giggled. “I think the champagne has gone to your 220

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head.” The champagne. She had downed it rather fast and so had he, but he could withstand more alcohol. Feeling ashamed now, he bent down to kiss her, but at the same time, he felt uncomfortable that his father was in the room with them. “Don’t worry. I won’t stay with you. Don’t be an idiot. She’s dead tired. It’s been a huge day for her and she isn’t trying to get out of anything. You’re right. The champagne did hit her. I’m glad I stopped by, because if I hadn’t talked to you, you would have become angry. You need to control that temper of yours.” You’re right, Father, he thought. Now go away. “Don’t forget, when she’s clearer headed, to tell her what her mother said. By the way, it was a beautiful wedding and your bride was so beautiful, she put any actress to shame.” Go away. “Okay, okay, I’m gone.” Chad bent down again and kissed Topaz tenderly on the nose. “Hey, my tired little bird. Are you going to fall asleep on me?” She sat up so suddenly, she startled him. “No way! No one is going to accuse me of falling asleep on my wedding night! Now make love to me, you big oaf, before I do pass out from exhaustion!” Reaching out to him, she put both arms around his neck and pulled him down on top of her. It was all he needed. His cock hadn’t rested since they arrived at the hotel and was begging for release. His balls felt as if a fist was squeezing them. He kissed her on the forehead, her nose, her chin, all over her 221

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face, then claimed her lips and kissed her long and lovingly until he woke her desire, that savage lust he’d seen in her before. He sucked her tongue into his mouth, waited for her response and got it. She arched her hips up against him, rotating them. Her dark eyes were pools of liquid desire. His kiss became deeper, more demanding and he felt her need as her kiss deepened as well. Their tongues entwined, played, searched and explored. He lifted his body a tad off her so he could reach her pussy, those sweet, waiting lips. Playing with her soft pubic hair first, twirling it, she wriggled beneath him urging his hand to explore more. Pulling away from her, he sat on his knees between her legs and gazed at the delicious feast that filled his vision. Her pink pussy lips, her virginal folds, the pink canal, slightly opened, still tight because it had never been invaded by what it needed. Drops of cream trickled down her slit. He rubbed his fingers between the folds parting the tender flesh gently, then entered a finger while his thumb rested on her clit and pressed down. He felt the small nub harden, growing a little. Leaning forward, he massaged a breast while his finger rotated within her. Lubrication started to excrete immediately as he continued to finger fuck her, two fingers, then he tried three. Two fingers worked but three was very tight. She moaned under his ministrations and squirmed. “Yes, oh, yes, Chad, want more, please…yes, yeeessss.” He pushed her legs apart more until she opened up completely to his gaze. Oh, I want to eat her so badly. But that could come later. Right now, she needed just tender, sweet loving. His cock begged to enter her, but 222

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he waited. Just resting the tip against her warm, wet vagina, he bent down to suck her nipples one by one. Her small hands grasped his buttocks and pulled him hard causing him to enter a little further. He had a big cock and large in circumference. He managed to enter about an inch and felt the soft flesh of her vagina gripping his cock. Though she seemed completely relaxed, he could still feel a tenseness, perhaps a deepdown fear of pain. Softly he massaged her breasts and spoke to her in soothing tones, told her how much he loved her, how much she meant to him. Finally, he felt her relax completely, but still, his cock had trouble getting in. Damn, she is tight. Then again, had he ever been to bed with a virgin? He had no idea what it was like, what to expect. “Take me, baby, take me,” she spoke in a hushed voice, trembling with desire. “I will, my love, I will, but you’re very tight and I’m big.” “I know. I’ve seen your cock. It’ll fit. If a baby can come out, a cock will surely fit,” she murmured. “And a baby coming out doesn’t hurt? You’re a nurse, you should know.” “Yes, silly, but a baby’s head is much bigger.” Their conversation was taking a different turn and taking away from the moment. He stroked her body, her breasts, massaging each one in turn, then pushed in some more. Until she yanked his buttocks down so hard that he was inside her some more. He felt the slight resistance of the barrier. All it would take now was one push and he was through. Watching her face carefully, he continued to 223

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massage her breasts. Her expression didn’t change. She still showed utter desire, lust, her lips slightly apart, her breathing rapid. The tips of his fingers could feel her heart beating in her chest. Gathering her in his arms now, he kissed her again, hard, long and deep and at the same time, he thrust. He was almost completely inside. Whether or not he’d broken through her hymen, he didn’t know. Feeling her stiffen for just a second, he stopped, only to feel her hands on his buttocks urging him, pulling him into her. She flung up her legs and wrapped them around him, which opened her up more to him. One final thrust and he was completely buried inside her. Oh, it felt so good. He had to take it slow, stretch her carefully, or she’d be sore tomorrow. What a fool, he should have taken the lubrication out of his suitcase. Still kissing her, tasting the sweet honey of her mouth, he started to move within her. She moaned then. Not a moan of pain, but one of pleasure and to his surprise, her hips met his, thrust for thrust. He’d never last this way. Her hips moved faster, her hands kneaded his buttocks, her nails digging in deep as she strove to push him in as deep as possible. Her lips pulled away from his. “I’m coming, I’m coming,” she whispered. Chad groaned and felt his own release building. His whole body trembled as his cock readied to spend itself. “Yes, oh, yes, now, my love, now,” she shouted. “Come with me!” And he did. Oh, did I ever. His body trembled, his cock released its load into her and finally, as the last spurts left it and his strokes slowed, he lay on top of her, spent, satisfied for the moment. 224

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“Ooooh, that was everything I ever dreamed it would be,” Topaz said softly. “You’re a wonderful and tender lover, my darling.” “For now, sweetness, for now. Just wait. This was your very first time so I had to be gentle, but there is a whole lot of learning for you ahead.” “I know,” she said softly. “But I told you I’ve seen movies, so I know what it’s all about.” “You wicked girl. You actually watched porn movies? I thought you were joking when you told me that.” “Well, sort of porn. How else does a woman learn what to do?” “I guess they’ve managed to learn since time began when there were no videos, CD’s, no porn movies on the computer.” “True. But times have changed,” she said, grinning at him. “Still tired, baby?” “Yes, but deliciously tired. I’m sure I’ll sleep like a baby. Where is my champagne?” He reached to get her glass and handed it to her. “You sure you want any more?” “It’s yummy and I’m thirsty.” “Don’t guzzle it too fast.” But that fell on deaf ears. She did drink it too fast. “I can’t wait till tomorrow.” “Oh, I’m just not enough for you?” She hit him playfully. “You goof! You know how much I love Sam and Johnny, too. I look so forward to all of us being together, living together, loving each other.” 225

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“Honey, there’s something I need to tell you.” “Uh oh, moment of truth. Here it comes. Is it bad?” He laughed. “No. Do you believe in life after death?” “Oh, yes. I grew up with a mother who was somewhat psychic and who believed in all paranormal things.” “Even werewolves and shapeshifters?” “No. You’re being silly. Be serious. She regularly went to a spiritual church led by a psychic medium. When I was young, I went with her.” “So you won’t laugh at me if I tell you that my father has started to visit me and talks to me?” That woke her up. She sat up and looked down into his eyes. “You’re kidding me.” “No. I wouldn’t kid about something like that. He told me you falling in love with one of us was his plan all along, that’s why he changed the will.” “Terry told me before he walked me down the aisle. It wasn’t something he could tell the three of you.” “He was with us at the wedding. So was your mother and my mother. I heard your mother very briefly.” All ears now, she sat on her knees. “Really? Mama?” “Yes. She said to tell you she’d be there at the wedding with you.” Tears poured down Topaz’s cheeks. “Oh, how I wish I could hear her.” “She said for you to relax, to open your mind. She’s been trying to get through to you.” “And Daddy John was there, too? You’ve just completed this happy day with the most treasured of messages, my love.” 226

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“My father wasn’t at all shocked about you marrying all three of us. He said he had his own little ménage going on with your and my mother.” He wiped the tears off her cheeks. Topaz laughed. “Really? The three of them together? That’s just wonderful.” Lying down, she curled into his arm. He held her tightly against him and they lay silently, each thinking their own thoughts. “Thank you, my love,” Topaz said sleepily. “For what?” “For the most wonderful day of my life. I love you.” “And I love you,” but his words fell on deaf ears, because Topaz had drifted off and was sound asleep.

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Chapter Eighteen woke and stretched. Drowsily, she opened her Topaz eyes to bright sunlight. For moments, she had no idea where she was until realization set in. She was a married woman now and there should be a man next to her in bed. Happiness flooded her heart and she looked next to her but saw only rumpled covers and an indent in the pillow. Where is Chad? Full memory of the day and the evening before flooded her mind and she felt overwhelmed with happiness. It all seemed like a dream, a fairytale come true, but it wasn’t. It was oh so very, very real. And she was the princess in this fairytale and it hadn’t come to a conclusion yet. Today would be the ultimate completion of her happiness and she’d have everything she could have ever dreamed of. Chad came out of the bathroom toweling his hair, completely naked. She drank in the sight of this beautiful man, this Rhett Butler come to life for her, this man who could be a movie star, a model, but he was all hers. All three of them would be that evening. “How is my beautiful princess this morning?” Chad stood before her and planted a kiss on top of her head. “Rested?” 228

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“Yes, I feel great.” “Sore?” “What from? My feet? Yes, they’re still a little bit sore.” “Oh, you’re so naive, my sexy wench.” “What time is it?” Without waiting for him to answer, she looked at her watch. “Heavens it’s afternoon. We slept that late?” “We did. But we had a very busy day and evening yesterday and you danced all evening.” “As my feet are telling me right now.” “I’ll help you there.” He sat beside her on the bed, lifted her feet onto his lap and started to massage each foot. Oh, that feels so good. He massaged the sensitive spots on her feet and when he put pressure on them, it sent her libido going full steam. “You’re making me horny,” she said in a husky voice. “Ah, I’ll have to remember that trick. Massaging your feet makes you horny. Now, Madame, what do you suggest we do about that? I’ve already had a shower, so—” “Dammit, you can wash Chad junior afterward.” With his cock already hard and pulsing, he needed no further invitation and was on the bed with her in his arms in no time. “Just a minute.” “Where are you going?” She watched him retrieve a small bottle from his suitcase and he jumped back on the bed with her. After squeezing a generous amount of oil into the palm of his hand, he spread her legs and rubbed her cleft with it making sure that each fold received a generous amount. 229

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Then he worked it into her vagina which she felt was already weeping with her own lubrication, but the extra oil would help. It was greasier than her cream. “Chad, do you realize how happy I am?” “Not as happy as me, princess. How does that feel?” “Slippery, soothing.” “Good. That’s what it’s meant to do.” Next, he coated his cock with the oil. The gentle fragrance of strawberries wafted into her nose. She squirmed, spread her legs really wide so he could see every part of her. Seeing his eyes darken with desire really turned her on and having him examine each part of her lower anatomy was a huge aphrodisiac. He lay on top of her, then and kissed her. Slowly, lovingly, then he kissed her hard as his shaft pressed against her opening. He slid in much easier this time and her vaginal walls gave way to accommodate him. If she’d thought it felt great the evening before, that was nothing compared to how it felt now. “Ooooh, harder, my love, fuck me harder.” She wrapped her legs around him and crossed them behind his back, locking him in. He pumped in and out of her slowly at first, but as his urge to come increased, faster and faster, until she felt him start to tremble. At the same time, she felt her own need to come and she made sure he knew. “Yeees, oh yeeess, harder, harder, harder, yeeees. I’m coming,” she hissed against his lips. He buried his face in her neck as a huge shudder shook his body and his semen shot into her at the same time as her own release. Slowly, their desire ebbed until they lay spent for the moment in each other’s arms. 230

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When she got her breath back, she whispered, “Will we ever get enough of this?” “Mm, maybe when we’re old and gray. You might when you have to satisfy three of us.” “I could do this all day.” “My, my wife is turning into a wanton hussy. Honey, the clock is clicking. We have to get ready for our next ceremony.” “You’re right. You go and wash Chad junior and your hands and I’ll go and shower,” she said, excitement already building for that day’s events. At this point, she didn’t even dare think about what that evening would bring. When she left the bed, she noticed a few rusty stains on the sheets, the evidence that she was no longer a virgin. No mega red blood as she’d read in some romance novels. Matter of fact, she’d hardly felt the breaking of her hymen. That was overrated as well. Though she was a romantic at heart, maybe, because she was a nurse, she was also too realistic and practical. “Last one in the bathroom is a rotten egg.” Laughing, she ran to the bathroom, but he overtook her, swung her up in his arms and carried her to the shower. “I’m very tempted to get in there with you, princess, but then we’ll never get going.” “Scoot,” she said, using one of Corky’s expressions. After she’d finished her shower, she found coffee and biscuits waiting for her. “Oh, that’s so welcome. I’m starving.” “You’re always starving,” he said grinning from ear to ear. “They’ll have food waiting for us so we’ll have to make do with biscuits for now.” 231

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She drank her coffee while she dressed and nibbled on a biscuit. Once dressed, she packed a small bag with the dress, her camera, makeup and her hairbrush. She could hardly climb up to the cave in her beautiful gown and for her men to see her in it before the ceremony could be bad luck. Last of all, she packed the small velvet box containing the three very slim gold bands each of the brothers would place on her finger. Once on her finger, together they would look like one band. Chad had used her engagement ring for their ceremony. Otherwise, she’d have way too many rings on her ring finger. “I’m ready,” she said, stuffing the last of the biscuit into her mouth. “Good. So am I. We can drive to where the trail is quite close to the cave. I just hope Corky can manage the climb.” “Sam and Johnny will help her.” The closer they came to the trail, the more excited she got. Soon she would be united with all her men and they could begin their life together. That night in the hotel room, then two weeks in the heavenly Caribbean where Chad had rented a private cabin supplied with all their needs for two weeks and they’d have their very own private beach. She could already imagine frolicking in the waves with the three of them. When they got to the top of the hill and neared the cave, everyone was already there waiting for them. “Are we late?” Topaz asked. “No, Missy, we were early. My, you taxed an old lady climbing this here mountain!” “Hey, Corky, this was all your idea! Your plan for 232

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us!” Corky grunted and mumbled something about she didn’t pick the place for the ritual. Topaz laughed. Corky’s grumbles were never meant badly. Topaz quickly disappeared into the cave to change into her dress. Exiting the cave, she stood and admired the scene for a moment. How they had gotten everything up there was beyond her. A makeshift altar had been made. It was covered with a satin purple cloth. The bower was there in front of it and there were lilacs and lily of the valley everywhere. They had turned a small, rather bare area into a small fairy patch. Topaz was surprised that there were quite a few people. She didn’t know any of them and surmised they were part of the priestess’s circle. Most everyone was dressed in casual clothing, even the three groomsmen, although they wore identical, new black jeans and mauve checkered cowboy shirts for this occasion. Her own dress was fairly plain, similar to the one she’d bought for Christmas, except it was a deep purple and the material the softest satin. The deep neckline was embroidered with small mauve beads all the way in a V to her waist. Topaz stepped forward and handed the priestess the small box containing the three rings. “Are you ready?” The priestess asked. “Yes, we are.” It was good that there was no wind that day or the candles on the altar would have quickly blown out. There was a bowl on the altar, a wand and several other things, items she guessed that would be used during the ceremony. Just like the day before, much of the ceremony flew 233

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right by her. All she could think about were the three men by her side. Several times the priestess had to prod her for her answer. They had all learned the vows and to shorten the ceremony, the priestess had decided they should say the main vow together. “We, Topaz Fiero, Chadwick Douglas, Samuel Douglas and John Douglas, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within our blood and the love that resides within our hearts, take thee to my hand, my heart and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire thee and be desire by thee, to possess thee and be possessed by thee, without sin or shame, for naught can exist in the purity of my love for thee. I promise to love thee wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in plenty and in poverty, in life and beyond where we shall meet, remember and love again. We shall not seek to change thee in any way. We shall respect thee, thy beliefs, thy people and thy ways as we respect ourselves.” The priestess handed Topaz a chalice filled with wine. “May you all drink your fill from the cup of love.” The men presented her with the chalice of love and each had her sip from it and she had them sip from it in return. Then they did the same with the small plate of small pieces of bread the priestess handed them. “By the power vested in me by God, I now pronounce you husbands and wife. May your love so endure that its flame remains a guiding light unto all of you. It was over and they were now all joined. Chad, Sam 234

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and Johnny each embraced her and kissed her passionately. Then the guests congratulated and blessed them. Tiffy hurried to set out food and wine for everyone on a long fold-up table someone had brought along. Someone else had brought a CD player and romantic music played in the background. Topaz had handed the camera to Tiffy and she hoped she’d been able to snap plenty of pictures. Though completely different, this wedding was no less overwhelming and romantic as yesterday’s ceremony and it felt very legal. After the ceremony, Topaz found out this was a wiccan ritual and not pagan. Much of the food was leftovers from the day before, but it all tasted very fresh. Topaz knew for a fact that Corky had baked fresh bread and fresh pies. There was no mistake smelling that freshly baked aroma as she munched on one of the buns that melted like butter in her mouth. She was so hungry she ate three buns and then pigged out on the pecan pies. When the sun dipped under the horizon and dusk set in, it also got quite cold so they decided to pack up and leave. Topaz hugged Corky and Tiffy, thanked the priestess and others and her men did the same. Johnny and Sam had driven in with Corky and Tiffy and after they transferred suitcases, they drove back to the hotel with them. Upon entering the room, all the candles had been refreshed and lit. The sheets on the bed were changed, the bed was made and several fresh bottles of champagne sat in ice buckets on the table. “Now, everything is perfect!” Topaz said as she sank 235

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into one of the easy chairs. I don’t know about you, but I’m dying for some warm food.” “You know, I was just thinking the same thing, although I had quite a bit to eat, I’m still craving something else,” Johnny said. “I know what I’m craving and it’s not hot food, although maybe hot in some ways,” Sam said sending them a grin. “Plenty of time later tonight,” Chad said. “I wouldn’t mind something hot. What do you suggest?” “How about pizza? I thought about a loaded burger from Sandy’s Burger Palace down the road, but that might be too filling,” Johnny suggested. “A loaded pizza sounds good,” Topaz said, taking the offered flute of champagne. She held it up to the three of them. “To all of us. May our union be blessed with many little Douglasses.” “Aye, aye,” the brothers said in unison. “Although, how many are you thinking of?” Chad asked. “Mm, I don’t know. There is a woman who has eighteen and counting. I think she has a baby every year.” “Wow. Eighteen? That’s a bit stiff,” Johnny said. “How do they manage?” “There’s a TV show about them. They manage quite well.” “Can you see yourself having that many babies? Being pregnant for eighteen years?” Sam asked. “No. I don’t think about it. It’ll come as is meant for us.” “I’ll order the pizza,” Sam said. “Any preferences?” 236

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“How about a beef and a ham and pineapple, both loaded,” Topaz said. “Sounds good.” Sam ordered the pizzas. While they waited for the pizzas to arrive, Topaz went to the bathroom to freshen up and change. After washing her face and the most important parts of her body, she sprayed on cologne, then put on the mauve nightgown and matching dressing gown she’d bought for this night. While standing before the mirror brushing her hair, she pondered on that evening, the three men in her bed, making love to her. Thinking back to some of the videos she’d seen, she already knew what was to come and excitement at the prospect thrilled her to no end. Though she felt like a tasty, warm snack, she could have done without it. Being made love to by her three men was priority in her mind and she was sure in theirs, too. Maybe they were a little hesitant because this was all very new for them, too. Men with all their bravado tended to be shy deep down, but they’d never admit to it. She didn’t need makeup. They’d kiss it all off anyway and her cheeks were already flushed from the adrenaline heating her. Just the thought of their hands and lips on her body was intoxicating as hell. Going back into the room, the pizza had already arrived. Its savory aroma drifted into her nostrils and she eagerly grabbed a piece and sat on the floor crosslegged. “Now that posture hardly becomes such a sexy maiden,” Johnny said. “I’m comfortable. That’s all that counts right now.” 237

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“You look lovely, Topaz. That’s a very pretty ensemble,” Sam complimented. “Thanks, Sam. Mm, this pizza is delicious. Who did you order it from? I’ve never had so much cheese on pizza.” “From the new pizza parlor that opened just a few months ago.” “I’ll have to remember that. Corky’s cooking is fantastic, but sometimes I can’t resist unhealthy takeout food.” “I doubt you ate that healthy when you were on your own in Mexico,” Chad said. “Actually, I did. Usually yoghurt for breakfast. A salad and fruit for lunch and at dinnertime, I mainly ate rice, vegetables and sometimes chicken breast. Just because someone lives alone doesn’t mean they eat unhealthy.” “I would,” Johnny said and laughed. “Hell, I doubt I could fry an egg without burning it.” “The three of you have been spoiled all these years. I intend on teaching my children to clean and cook, whether they’re boys or girls.” She finished her second glass of champagne and second slice of pizza, although she’d chosen a skinnier slice this time. “More champagne?” she asked, holding out her glass. Sam filled her flute and she went to the bed and lay on it setting the flute on the nightstand. The men would soon follow, she was sure. One by one, they went to the bathroom. She heard water splashing, toothbrushes and sure enough, Johnny came out wearing nothing and was first on the bed with her. Sam came out next, turned off 238

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the main light and within minutes, all three had joined her. At first, the men acted a little awkward trying to hide their full erections from each other. Topaz grinned. They’d get over that soon enough. She reached out to Sam first. Her hand fisted around his cock and she started to move the skin up and down. Precum glistened on the head and leaning forward, she licked it off. At the same time, she felt hands on her buttocks, fingers spreading the cheeks and that part of her that had never been invaded in any way. The fingers rubbed her anus gently, then probed a little. It had to be Chad, because next she felt oil poured down her crack and worked into her hole. She lay down again. Johnny bent over her and took a breast in his hand squeezing it tight. Her nipples were so hard and taut, they ached and more so when he squeezed her breast. He nibbled on her nipple with his teeth but didn’t hurt her, then he took it into his mouth and sucked. Chad sat on the other side of her and kissed her deeply, his hand on her other breast. Sam spread her legs and ran his fingers up and down her folds, now not only sticky with her own cream, but from the oil that had run down her crack, too. He teased her clit until it felt as if it would burst it throbbed so hard, then buried his face between her legs and sucked before he entered her with his tongue. His finger continued to tease her clit. Between the three of them, they taunted her, teased her so much that she was ready to scream. She had one cock in her left and one in her right hand and pumped them each simultaneously. The men let out sounds of desire, hunger and their need to come. 239

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She wanted more, she wanted them inside her, wanted to be fucked, so she wiggled away from them, forced Johnny to lie on his back and straddled him. Hovering above his cock, she teased his cock with her vagina by letting it enter a bit and pulling back. Finally, she leaned forward giving access to that uninvaded part of her for Sam. She felt him move up behind her, felt his hard length against her bottom, his hand parting her cheeks. She felt him insert something into her hole. It was the hard nipple of the oil bottle. As he squeezed, the oil ran down her crack to her folds then to Johnny’s cock. A finger caressed the rim of her anus, then entered and started to move within. Just as she started to sink down on Johnny’s cock and let it inch in a bit at a time, Chad sat above Johnny’s head on his knees. The way Topaz leaned forward, she could now take Chad’s cock into her mouth. She sucked, gently at first, still concentrating on taking Johnny fully within her. She felt her vaginal walls stretch as she sank down fully and took him completely into her. Oh, I like this position. It was far more intoxicating and deeper than the traditional way. Once Johnny was firmly embedded and started to move within her, she felt her anus invaded by something much larger than a finger. She had no time to think about it, no time to tense. Her blood was boiling now and she was at the point of exploding. Sam’s cock inched into her. It hurt a bit at first, but it wasn’t unbearable. When he was fully in, he waited, then started to move. Two cocks moving inside her at the same time was almost too much. She sucked desperately on Chad’s cock, lapped around it with her 240

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tongue, teased the hole, then sucked it all the way into her mouth. Chad grasped both of her breasts and kneaded them hard. A tremor shook Johnny and another and she knew he was close. Her own release was getting ready to burst. She vaguely wondered if the three of them could come together as she shouted out her final wave of release and felt her cream mix with Johnny’s come. Chad released at the same time and shot her mouth full. She swallowed, tasting the saltiness of his come. Johnny lay still, still breathing heavily and Chad fell back onto the bed. Suddenly she felt her waist gripped and hands flung her onto her back at the end of the bed. Sam leaned over her, perspiration dotting his forehead and his breathing heavy. He pulled a condom off his cock and spreading her legs, he entered her with one plunge. It turned her on again instantly. “Ooooh,” she uttered as his strokes led her toward another orgasm. “Oooooh, yeeeesss…Sam, harder, please, harder…” His body trembled and she knew by his expression, his eyes that he would come at any second. They rode to the finish together, the waves of ecstasy washing over her as they came simultaneously. Sam collapsed next to her and she lay staring up at the ceiling. They were spread all over the bed, all recovering from their road to heavenly bliss, a road they would travel often in the future. The four of them were travelers, all four heading to the same destination, all four striving to bond their souls now and forever all the way into eternity. The love she felt for these three men was unsurpassable and she wondered if any woman had ever 241

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loved as much. Her heart overflowed with joy. These two heart-stopping nights would remain engraved in her memory forever. Even if she were never to be with them together again, it was a memory one could live and thrive on. She cherished each one of them, each for their different qualities and each for their character blemishes. Chad with his quick temper, Sam who could at times brood and Johnny who was too easy going at times. Oh, she knew they probably had other faults, character traits she yet had to discover, learn about them, just like she wasn’t perfect and they had much to learn about her. But what an intriguing road of discovery it would all be. Topaz crawled up to the head of the bed, followed by Sam. She laid between Sam and Chad with Johnny just a little higher stroking her hair. Her heart overflowed with contentment as she caressed her lovers, her husbands. They had stirred a fire within her soul that she never could have dreamed of. A fiery love that now housed itself in three chambers of her heart, the fourth reserved for the children she would bear them. And a savage lust that raged like wildfire through her body as their hands and lips resumed their exploration of her. Tomorrow, their married life would start. Two weeks of heavenly fun, love and laughter and then back to the ranch and a future that held so much promise. A future with Chad, Sam and Johnny.

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About the Author Gabriella Bradley lives in beautiful British Columbia, Canada, amidst rugged mountains. She more than often has a grizzly in her backyard searching for food. Other critters that visit on a regular basis are cougars, coyotes, squirrels, raccoons. She has been a writer all of her life, though only ventured into erotic works in 2003. Her hobbies include hiking, gardening, swimming, sewing, embroidery. Favorite movies are old timers like Gone with the Wind, Spartacus, etc. Her favorite music is Abba. Gabriella can be reached at this email: [email protected] Gabriella’s website is located at: http://www.gabriellabradley.com/