Taming

Jenesi Ash

The Taming

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Jenesi Ash

The Taming

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“The Taming” An Ellora’s Cave Electronic Publication in association with author: Jenesi Ash ISBN # 1-84360-048-X All Rights Reserved. http://www.ellorascave.com/ © Copyright Jenesi Ash, 2001. This book/e-book may not be reproduced in whole or in part by email forwarding, copying, fax, or any other mode of communication without author and publisher permission. Edited by Cris Brashear & Tina Engler.

Jenesi Ash

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Chapter One

Adam collapsed into a vacant lawn chair, his weary eyes scanning the crowd at the engagement party. He was tired, almost exhausted. He idly wondered why strategic warfare was conducted on all remaining bachelors at engagement parties. The battlefield appeared innocent. The backyard was overcrowded with plastic chairs and picnic tables. The hot midwestern summer breeze gently tugged at the tablecloths. A few men were at the barbecue grill, arguing over the best grilling technique. Adam glanced at the back porch where a group of older women were busy setting the buffet table. Friends and relatives were here to celebrate his brother Ben’s engagement. Everyone seemed so excited about the upcoming nuptials. Everyone but Adam. Adam continued scanning the engagement party. He saw one of his basketball buddies being chatted up by a cute, petite blonde. Yet, even from this distance he could see the young woman had wedding fever in her eyes. Poor guy. Adam should rescue his fellow comrade on the war against bachelors, but he just spent most of his time trying to be polite to friends and relatives who “knew a great gal” that he should meet. In a small town like this, such was life. He was taking a deserved break and hoped no one would bother him. Most of the crowd probably couldn’t see him as he sat at a table in the corner. He glanced at the table next to him and nearly choked on his beer. He was sitting next to two young women. Adam waited one tense moment for the pick-up line or gesture that usually came from an aggressive single woman. None came. Adam gave a sigh of relief. Shame came right on its heels. Was he so conceited that he thought every woman would try to get his attention? As it was, the women were too intent on their discussion. They were probably comparing notes on the men at the party. “All I’m saying is that marriage is an old-fashioned concept that I don’t want to be a part of.” Adam almost popped his neck as he tried not to swivel his head and stare at the women. A woman not wanting marriage? A woman saying this to her friends and not some gullible male? Impossible!

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“Of course you want marriage. Every woman does, eventually,” the other woman said, and Adam nodded his head in agreement. His nodding quickly turned into shaking as the woman continued with, “After all, it’s the natural conclusion for a successful relationship.” “No, it’s not. That’s what we’re led to believe. That’s what men want us to believe.” Men? Adam controlled himself from interrupting. It was the women who try to get the men to believe that baloney. This chick had it all wrong. Adam wanted to turn around and find which one with the clear, assertive voice was the obviously misguided woman. Probably some truly ugly girl who had no hopes of getting married. He slowly turned to look at the women and prayed he didn’t gain their attention. From what he could tell, they probably didn’t even realize there were other guests at the party. They were too wrapped up in their argument. “Men act like a marriage protects and secures a future for a woman, but that is so untrue. The woman has no future once she marries.” Adam stared at the woman while her friend attacked that statement. If he were in the right state of mind, he would have jumped in the debate. But he couldn’t. He felt like he’d been sucker-punched squarely in the stomach. The woman was beautiful. More than beautiful. She vibrated with energy and life. Her brown, chin-length hair was softly blowing in the hot breeze. Her brown eyes sparkled with intelligence and spirit. Her face would have been considered just pretty, but it was breathtaking from the animated and untamed expressions. The pale blue short-sleeve shirt she wore emphasized her ivory complexion while her dark blue wraparound skirt hugged her trim, athletic body. She wore no jewelry except for gold hoop earrings. The lack of jewelry was a practical choice, Adam thought. Any bracelet or necklace would get in the way of her flowing gestures. The woman was in constant motion, yet she did not appear restless. Just dynamic. Adam could watch her endlessly. Her brown eyes flashed then twinkled then shimmered with amusement. He wondered what it would be like to have the woman’s attention focused solely on him. It would be an incredible experience. “Adam!”

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Adam jumped as someone called his name and jabbed him in the shoulder. He turned and saw his younger brother. “What is it, Ben?” “Aunt Margaret’s been looking for you,” Ben said as he sat down next to Adam. “Said she’s been here forever and you haven’t even said hello to her. She’s complaining that you’re avoiding her.” “Can you blame me?” Adam asked as his eyes drifted back to the fascinating woman. “What’s got your attention?” Ben looked around Adam. “Uh, oh. Marianne’s friends. Stay clear of them. They’re nothing but trouble. Especially Elizabeth Meier.” Adam had a gut feeling, but asked anyway. “Which one is Elizabeth?” “The brunette. She’s a bad influence. Marianne tells me Elizabeth’s opinion on something at least once a day. And I’ve heard enough stories about the stupid things they have done in the past. Just thinking about it makes my heart stop. All of their antics were usually Elizabeth’s ideas. It’s a good thing Elizabeth’s never going to marry. She would give her husband a nervous breakdown.” Adam glanced back at his brother. “She just says she doesn’t want to marry. Like most women, she means differently.” He knew that first-hand. He’d learned that ten years ago from his one and only fiancée. Adam didn’t think too much about Debi anymore. It seemed like they’d dated forever, although it was probably no more than a year. The night after graduation he’d proposed to her and she’d gladly accepted. It went downhill from there. Once again he was a victim of a woman saying one thing, but thinking something totally different. He had told her of his plans to make his lawn care business into a career. She had seemed to be enthusiastic about it. Until they became engaged. Suddenly she was pushing him to go to college and get “a real job”. It soon became apparent that she didn’t want to marry someone who cut grass for a living. She wanted a professional for a husband. Someone to brag about. Someone to lift her social status. Adam snapped out of his thoughts when he realized Ben was saying something. “No.” Ben shook his head. “Elizabeth always means what she says. She’s very antimarriage. I think it has something to do with the marriages in her family.”

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“If she’s so anti-marriage, why is she here celebrating the engagement between you and her best friend?” “Beats me.” Ben shrugged. “I thought Elizabeth would have influenced Marianne to refuse me, but she didn’t. From what I hear, she didn’t give any opinion at all. Which is very unusual!” Adam grinned with his brother. “I can imagine.” He turned and looked at Elizabeth again. “Oh, no. You’re not interested in her, are you?” Ben asked. When Adam didn’t reply, Ben continued. “It would be a bad idea to get tangled with her.” The thought of getting tangled with Elizabeth did a lot to Adam’s imagination. “She’s beautiful,” Adam said simply. “She’s okay. Nothing like Marianne, though.” Adam let that slide. “She’s definitely interesting. She wouldn’t bore me.” “No, she wouldn’t bore you. Torment you, yes.” “And she’s not looking for marriage.” “Stop it right there, Adam,” Ben said. “I will not let you have an affair with Marianne’s friend.” Adam turned around. “Who said anything about an affair?” “Affair, fling, whatever,” Ben said with frustration. “I don’t want you messing with one of Marianne’s friends so close to the wedding.” “Messing with?” Adam asked in a teasing voice. “You know what I mean. With you as my best man, we’re going to be planning this wedding with Marianne. And Marianne is always around her friends. We don’t need extra headaches while putting the wedding together. Understand?” “Sure, I understand. But what if Elizabeth can’t keep her hands off of me?” Adam joked. Ben laughed. “I think she’ll manage just fine. And I wonder why you think she’s going to be interested in you?” “It’s been said that I’m a challenge to women.” It had also been said that he suffered everything from commitment anxiety to fear of emotional intimacy. Whatever the hell that meant. “You’re challenged, all right.” Ben muttered as he stood up. “I better go mingle. And you better say hello to Aunt Margaret.”

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“I hear you,” Adam said as he turned back to watch Elizabeth. He heard Ben mumbling under his breath while walking away. Ben was forgotten as he watched Elizabeth dig into her enormous purse. “It may have been in the past, but it’s not like that anymore,” her friend said. “It’s the woman’s decision to marry.” “If that’s so, then why do we hang on to all the rituals that act like the bride has nothing to do with it?” “Like what?” “Like when the father of the bride gives her away.” “Oh,” her friend interrupted, “you can’t get rid of that! It’s tradition.” Elizabeth looked up from her search, exasperated. “Don’t get me started.” Started? Adam thought. What was she now? Just warming up? The thought intrigued him. Most of the women he knew didn’t have opinions. Well, if they did, they hid them well. Elizabeth made her views known loud and clear. A man knew exactly what she thought. He admired that. It was a shame her views were skewed. “Elizabeth, what are you looking for?” the other woman asked. “The invitation to the barbecue. It said something about how Mr. and Mrs. Braun announced the engagement of their daughter to Mr. Benjamin Schmidt. Why couldn’t Marianne announce it herself? Or with Ben? And why didn’t it say ‘to the son of Mr. and Mrs. Schmidt’?” Adam couldn’t help himself any longer. “Because Ben is not living with his parents. Marianne is.” To his surprise, Elizabeth jumped at the sound of his voice and knocked over her purse, spilling the contents of it onto the grass next to Adam’s feet. He reached down and picked up the crinkled engagement party invitation. “Is this what you were looking for?” Adam asked, not bothering to hide the amusement and challenge from his voice. And then Adam waited with great anticipation for Elizabeth to look in his eyes and focus her attention on him. ***** Elizabeth could feel her face turning bright red. The day couldn’t get any worse.

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It had started out bad enough. Her best friend was celebrating an engagement. Elizabeth wasn’t too thrilled about Ben and even less enthusiastic that one of her friends was getting married. Elizabeth had made her day worse by announcing her plans to attend night classes at the community college and earn a business degree. No one seemed to share her enthusiasm. In fact, the announcement had been met with awkward incredulity. True, Elizabeth had been a horrible student in high school, but she wasn’t eighteen anymore. She was a hard-working, intelligent twenty-four year old secretary. The advice she was receiving was irritating. They suggested she needed to find a man and settle down with someone sinfully sexy who also possessed family values and a “new age” attitude. Yeah, lots of luck. Of course, that got her on the topic of marriage and weddings. Some of her friends escaped. Leah chose to debate until the bitter end. And now, to top it off, Elizabeth talked too much on issues not considered to be good manners. And, just like clockwork, she was overheard. But something was different about this faux pas. The person who’d overheard her unpopular comments did not sound judgmental. No, the man who’d spoken was obviously amused. Elizabeth wanted to wipe the laughter from his deep voice. His casual treatment on a personal touchy subject was like a scrape on raw skin. She would love to argue with him until she changed his mind and he begged for mercy. But she wouldn’t. This was Marianne’s special day and she wasn’t going to cause any trouble, no matter how tempting. Swallowing her pride and fighting instinct, she lowered her lashes and turned toward the man. She vaguely noticed how quiet Leah had become. Elizabeth knew her friend was waiting for the pounce. Boy, was Leah in for a surprise. Elizabeth saw the masculine hand holding the invitation. His hand was tanned and strong, his fingers lean and callused. Definitely a workingman’s hand, if one could judge by the scratches on the weathered skin. Pushing the wayward thoughts aside, she mumbled her thanks and grabbed the invitation. The man didn’t let go.

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Elizabeth tugged at the invitation. He tugged right back. What was this guy’s problem? Elizabeth wondered as she jerked the invitation towards her. He jerked it closer to him. Elizabeth forgot all about her promise to be on good behavior. She was going to rip into this guy. She glanced up with angry eyes just as she yanked the invitation out of his hand. The man let go. His smile grew wide. Elizabeth just stared at the man. He was gorgeous. His dark golden hair was cut short and had a hint of curl. His face was lean and angular, his body muscular and fit. His shoulders looked strong and wide, even under the loose green polo shirt. She was vaguely aware of his denim shorts exposing powerful, tanned legs. But what captured Elizabeth’s attention were the sky blue eyes twinkling with humor and the wide smile beckoning her to share the fun. The man was more than gorgeous. He was dangerous to her senses. Her pulse quickened the moment their eyes met. She could feel her breath hitch in her throat as she felt his interested gaze on her. Belatedly, her internal alarm went off. Her instinct to flee came to her in a rush and she tore her attention away from the handsome stranger. But he wouldn’t let her get away. “You know,” he said in a lazy tone, “an invitation just explains who’s giving the party. It’s not a family tree.” Elizabeth paused for a moment, wondering what he was talking about. Oh, yes, the invitation she had struggled for. “I’ll keep that in mind,” she said as she turned her back to him. She glanced at Leah who watched the exchange with great interest. Elizabeth frantically searched her mind for a reasonable excuse to leave the table. The irritating man and his intense blue eyes bothered her. She was too interested in his every move. Her body hummed with nervous awareness. Just when she was going to throw her dignity aside and make a run for it, the all-tooknowing Leah asked the stranger, “But do you disagree with Elizabeth that marriage is like a business arrangement?” Elizabeth glared at her friend. She did not want to get into a discussion with this man.

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“If it is a business arrangement,” the man said, “then the men get the bad end of the deal.” The man and Leah pointedly looked at Elizabeth. The ball was definitely in her court, but Elizabeth wasn’t playing. “You think so?” Elizabeth asked tightly. It was difficult being polite. It always had been for her. “Of course.” “Of course,” Elizabeth mimicked, trying to restrain her temper. Her control was weakening at an alarming speed. “The man gets a servant, lover, and caregiver to his children for free, but he gets the ‘bad end of the deal’. Gosh,” she whacked the side of her head, “that’s so obvious, I wonder why I hadn’t seen it before.” Leah’s amusement transformed into concern, realizing Elizabeth was simmering and ready to erupt like a volcano. The gorgeous man was either oblivious to the fact, or didn’t care. “I don’t know,” the man said. “Probably because you hadn’t looked at it from a male point of view. You don’t see that the man is responsible for his wife’s financial future.” “That may have been the case a couple of decades ago,” Elizabeth argued, “but nowadays a woman brings in an income to the household. This income is extra from all the other duties she provides for her family.” “But the man is usually the main income provider.” “Because, unfortunately, the woman will work the same job as a man and only make seventy-five cents to the man’s dollar.” Adam shrugged, his movement adding fuel to Elizabeth’s fiery temperament. “True, but that’s not the issue. The issue is the man is still the main bread-winner, whether or not he lets his wife work.” Elizabeth’s body stiffened at the word lets. She slowly placed her hands in her lap and concentrated on clasping them loosely. She didn’t want to give the man any indication of her instinctive urge to clamp them around his neck and squeeze. Hard. And not let go. Elizabeth’s face showed no expression as she turned to Leah. “I’m going to kill him.” Leah immediately responded. “Don’t!”

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“Give me one good reason,” Elizabeth said, noticing the man’s smile grew even wider. She was already thinking of several different methods of slow and painful torture for the male chauvinist. “Because it’s Marianne’s special day,” Leah said. “And her family spent so much money on the party, it would be a waste for it to end as a murder scene.” “That’s another thing—” the man said. Elizabeth gave her full attention to the man, wondering why she was even bothering. Never mind that her heart was pumping and her mind was racing. Never mind that this argument left her feeling exhilarated and alive, just like when she makes a deadline at work with seconds to spare. “Why do the parents of the bride spend so much money on a wedding?” he asked. “Is this a rhetorical question, or are you really clueless?” Elizabeth asked. “I have my theory, but I wonder just how far off yours is.” “I don’t have a theory. I’ll just state the facts for you. A girl is raised to believe that her wedding day will be the most important day of her life. Naturally, she wants to make it as special as possible.” “Wrong.” “Excuse me?” “The parents and the bride make this huge advertising campaign, designed to make the bride look like she’s this wonderful prize for the guy.” Elizabeth’s cool facade melted. “Advertis—are you nuts?” “No.” the man replied in all seriousness. “Think about it. The man is the buyer, the woman is the product. The wedding is the marketing idea.” “The woman is definitely treated like a product, which has been my point all along,” Elizabeth said. “She is given away by her father, as if she’s some piece of his property.” “No, she’s given away by her father as if she’s some special gift. A prize, if you will. It’s all false packaging for the guy.” “For the woman, you mean,” Elizabeth said. “You have it all wrong.” “No, you’re just not listening. The whole engagement and wedding event is advertising. It’s to lure the man into believing that this is what he wants.”

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“No. The whole engagement and wedding thing is to lure the woman into believing that marriage is going to be like this. That she’s going to be the center of attention to her fiancé and family. Which is totally bogus.” “What is going on here?” Elizabeth looked up and saw Ben towering over the table. Great, she thought. He’d undoubtedly heard her comments about marriage and weddings. She cringed as she reviewed what she’d said. If Ben repeated those things to Marianne, she was in big trouble. She looked closely into Ben’s face, trying to gauge his anger. Uh-oh. From the looks of it, she was on the verge of being kicked out of her best friend’s engagement party. That would definitely put a rift into her friendship with Marianne. Now was the moment to bluff her way through a tricky situation. “Nothing, Ben,” Elizabeth said in a breezy manner. “Just talking to…,” she faltered, realizing she didn’t know the man’s name. “My big brother,” Ben supplied, glaring at his older sibling. Big brother? She turned to the man, stunned. Good grief! This is Adam Schmidt, the male chauvinist times infinity who just happened to be the most eligible bachelor in town? No way! Elizabeth couldn’t believe it. Okay, she could understand that any woman between the ages of nine and eighty-nine would drool over his good looks, but wouldn’t they run away screaming the moment he opened his mouth and gave his opinion? Well, you didn’t, Elizabeth reminded herself. But that was different, she decided. She had been defending womankind. It had nothing to do with the fact that she found him fascinating. Fascinating? Where did that idea come from? The man wasn’t fascinating. He was a fascist. His ideas about women were out-dated and just plain wrong. His beliefs about weddings were downright paranoid. Someone had to set him straight. And right now that person happened to be his little brother, Ben. Elizabeth quickly focused on the men. She was surprised and relieved that Ben wasn’t showing his anger at her. “Adam, I thought I told you not to bother these nice ladies,” Ben said through clenched teeth that were bared by his forced smile. Leah and Elizabeth exchanged disbelieving glances. Ladies? Ben would never have said that, but they weren’t about to point it out.

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Adam, on the other hand, had no such reservations. “No, I believe you said to stay clear of them, especially Eliz—” “I don’t care what I said, but it seems the two of you are creating a scene.” “Scene?” Elizabeth glanced around. From what she could tell, no one was paying much attention to their little corner. “We were just having a slight disagreement,” Adam said in a tone designed to smooth out Ben’s ruffled feathers. “More like an exchange of opinions,” Elizabeth said. Ben looked suspiciously at Elizabeth and Adam before turning to Leah. “Leah, what is going on here?” “Nothing really. In fact, I think the, uh, disagreement had actually turned into an agreement before you got here.” Adam and Elizabeth shot incredulous looks at Leah for her outright lie. It seemed that Ben could also tell it wasn’t the truth. “Oh, really,” he said. “Yeah, they both agree that weddings are nothing but false advertising, and that it is better not to get married,” Leah reported cheerfully, glad to diffuse the situation. She didn’t notice that her report made Ben’s complexion turn a nice shade of purple. Adam and Elizabeth turned to each other as Leah’s summation sunk in. Leah hadn’t been lying. They did agree on two main points, in a roundabout fashion. They both believed that weddings were false advertising. They both believed marriage was advantageous for one person. What it boiled down to was that both of them didn’t believe in weddings or marriage. They shared the same view. It was an unsettling thought. Elizabeth tore her thoughtful gaze away from Adam. She didn’t want to agree on anything with this neo-Neanderthal. She had always been at odds with her male chauvinist father, stepfather, stepbrother and brother-in-law. She didn’t want to have a common view with any narrow-minded male. She had to leave. She had to get away from Adam Schmidt and the very idea that they held the same opinion on anything. She scooted away from the table. “Well, if you all will excuse me,” Elizabeth began, her quick getaway impeded as one of the chair’s legs stuck in a groove.

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Her words faltered as Adam automatically rose from his seat and assisted her. The chivalrous action confused her. She wanted to tell him she wasn’t helpless, yet at the same time the gesture sent warmth flooding through her. “And if you will excuse us,” Ben said, his attention to Leah, “my Aunt Margaret has been looking everywhere for Adam.” Ben turned to his brother and gave a threatening look. Adam gave a long-suffering sigh. His expression was that of a man who’s been judged and sentenced. Elizabeth smiled. She’d met the infamous Aunt Margaret and could understand Adam’s reluctance. Suddenly Adam’s eyes locked with hers. At that moment she felt a connection with him. The shared moment disturbed and flustered her. She diverted her eyes and hurriedly walked away. ***** “Okay,” Adam said as he slapped Ben’s shoulder twenty minutes later, “I’ve completed my shift with Aunt Margaret. It’s your turn.” “I don’t think so. You’ve barely spent any time with her.” “Doesn’t matter. You’re the man of the hour, and that’s more important to her.” “No,” Ben disagreed, “she would find my company a waste of time since I’m engaged. She now has all this time to concentrate on changing your bachelor status.” Ben’s words sent a chill up Adam’s spine. “Anyway, the more you’re in her company, the less trouble you’ll get into,” Ben added. “All I did was talk to Elizabeth.” “Talk? We were about ready to physically restrain her. And I was thinking about putting a muzzle on you.” “Instead you dragged me over to Aunt Margaret and her candidate for my future wife. Ben, the punishment does not fit the crime.” Ben flashed a devilish smile. “Tough. Oh, that’s my cue.” Adam turned and saw Marianne’s father motioning for Ben to come forward. “The formal announcement,” Ben informed Adam as he walked away. Adam watched as the crowd quieted down while Marianne, Ben and their parents gathered in the middle of the lawn. “My wife and I…” Marianne’s father began. Adam tuned him out, his eyes searching the crowd for Elizabeth.

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After scanning the entire yard, he finally spotted Elizabeth standing behind her friends. She was of average height, maybe five inches shorter than his five foot ten, and her face was partially blocked by her friends’ shoulders. The expression on her face was difficult to read. In fact, she showed no emotion at the engagement announcement. Yet, Adam could almost sense a hint of sadness in the way she stood, the way she distanced herself from the crowd. Nah, Adam decided. He was never one who could interpret what a woman felt. Any of his ex-girlfriends would say so. Elizabeth probably wasn’t concentrating on what was being said. He saw Elizabeth tense and she looked around, her alert brown eyes colliding with his. Much to his surprise, a crimson blush swept her face and she quickly looked away. Hmm, Adam thought. Now there was an interesting turn of events. It just might be something to build upon. Without even thinking about it, Adam slowly made his way to where Elizabeth stood. Once he realized what he was doing, he wasn’t really surprised. Elizabeth intrigued him. She tried giving him the cool treatment but that collapsed the moment he said a few chauvinistic comments. Adam smiled as he remembered his outrageous remarks. Although he did believe in some of the things he’d said, he didn’t hold those ideas religiously. And some of the comments he’d made were definitely wild. But he couldn’t help it. Watching Elizabeth in her full angry glory was breathtaking. It was addictive. He couldn’t help but want more. When he finally stood next to Elizabeth, he inhaled a faint whiff of the delicious perfume she wore. Liz Claiborne, if he wasn’t mistaken. What he did notice easily was her rigid stance. She was primed for battle. Adam hid his smile. She was enjoying this verbal combat as much as he was. Adam leaned closer and enjoyed the way Elizabeth froze. He whispered in her ear. “You abandoned me.” Elizabeth almost turned to him, but caught herself just in time. “What are you talking about?” “You let me take the heat from Ben. You just walked away, leaving me high and dry. Just like a woman,” Adam teased. “You must not know a lot of women. Or at least, not the right kind.”

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“Hey, babe, I know a lot and all sorts of women.” Adam saw Elizabeth’s jaw tightened. “I wouldn’t go bragging about it. And I am not a ‘babe’.” “Wanna bet?” Elizabeth turned, focusing her angry glare solely on him. “I am not a ‘babe’, a ‘sweetie’, or even a ‘honey’. I am a woman, and if you call me any of those sexist nicknames, I will not be responsible for my actions. Is that understood?” Adam eyebrows arched with interest. “Sounds promising.” Elizabeth clicked her teeth and growled, turning away. Adam’s smile turned wicked. Elizabeth no longer looked at him like scum. She now treated him like a pesky insect. He was definitely working up the food chain. This could be fun. “And so,” Marianne’s father concluded his long-winded speech, “I am glad to hand my daughter over to Ben.” The audience applauded the statement. Adam sneaked a glance at Elizabeth. Just as he expected, her face betrayed a moment of displeasure with the phrase hand over, but she quickly regained her polite expression. Adam decided to applaud more fervently. He was acting like a school kid trying to get the attention of the prim girl who was always teacher’s pet. He should be disgusted by his juvenile behavior, but he was more interested in getting a response from Elizabeth. “And, just for the record, Ben,” Mr. Braun added, “once the wedding is over, all sales are final. I accept no refunds.” The crowded laughed and cheered. Adam hooted along very loudly. Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Typical male chauvinist…” he could hear her muttering. “I’m sorry,” Adam said with pseudo-innocence. “Have we offended the militant feminist with our politically incorrect feelings?” “Wow. I just went from ‘babe’ to ‘militant feminist’ in two seconds. Is that some kind of record?” “No. ‘Militant feminist’ is what you think you are. ‘Babe’ is what I think you are.” “And do you want to know what I think you are?” “Stop!” Adam said, pressing his hand over her mouth. “There are children present.” His hand seemed huge against Elizabeth’s delicate features. His weathered skin lightly scratched her soft lips.

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Elizabeth’s eyes shimmered. “You better watch it,” she said, her voice muffled from his hand. “I bite.” Adam sighed. “I hope so.” Elizabeth immediately tensed as she realized he took her threat as a promise. Adam’s hand slid down as she moved, his callused thumb dragging her lower lip. His harsh skin rubbed against the silky softness. Elizabeth hastily stepped aside, much to Adam’s regret. A scarlet blush swept her face as she lowered her gaze. He could almost see her mind working at top speed, trying to put some distance between them. “Oh, Adam!” Adam stilled as he heard the familiar, abrasive voice of his Aunt Margaret. Elizabeth looked over his shoulder. She gave a shaky smile. “I believe your Aunt Margaret is trying to get your attention. She seems to be bringing two—how would you put it?— ‘babes’ with her. “Will this day ever end?” Adam muttered to himself. “Don’t worry,” Elizabeth said and she started to walk away. “Remember, you know a lot and all kinds of women. I’m sure you’ll do just fine.” Yeah, Adam thought, but Elizabeth was the only one he wanted to be with at the party. Adam blinked. He slightly shook his head. With most of his friends and relatives at the party, he wanted to just hang out with Elizabeth. What was going on? Adam didn’t want to know the answer. He quickly turned and approached Aunt Margaret with her two young female companions. No doubt his aunt was surprised by his willingness to talk with her and flirtatiously banter with the young women. Little did anyone know that he would rather deal with Aunt Margaret any day than find out just how much he liked Elizabeth Meier.

Chapter Two Two weeks later, Elizabeth decided she was going to lose it. She wasn’t sure if it would be her mind or her lunch, but she was definitely going to run from the room screaming any minute.

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“I just can’t decide,” Marianne said, throwing down a handful of brochures on the dining room table. They were finally at Marianne’s house. Elizabeth greedily guzzled the rest of her cold drink as she sat in front of the overworked window air conditioner unit. Marianne and Elizabeth had spent the morning looking at bridal gowns and the afternoon trying to find an available reception hall. Unfortunately, it was the hottest summer day on record and they drove around in Elizabeth’s ancient Gremlin. Air conditioner not included. Elizabeth could have been doing other things. A list of chores easily popped into her mind. And she would be doing them gladly this Saturday afternoon. In fact, she would have loved to do anything else than work on Marianne’s wedding. Ever since the engagement party two weeks ago, Marianne had spoken of nothing else. Whatever Elizabeth had to say, Marianne would find it related to weddings. It was driving Elizabeth nuts. The woman was definitely in the grips of wedding fever. But Elizabeth could not suffer with just her best friend having the disease. No, it turned out to be the contagious kind. Everyone she knew caught it. Her friends Leah and Jackie wanted constant updates. Strangely enough, Leah was engaged and would marry next year. Why she would be caught up in someone else’s wedding was anyone’s guess. The idea popped into Elizabeth’s head. “Which hall is Leah using?” “I already checked and it’s booked every weekend for the next year.” Marianne replied as she dropped her head into her hands. “Every place is booked so far in advance and Ben and I want to get married before the year is up!” “Why?” Elizabeth asked with a mischievous grin. “What’s the rush?” Marianne glanced up to glare at her best friend. “No, I am not pregnant. You know I haven’t even slept with Ben.” Elizabeth smiled, refraining from her view on Ben’s insistence on having a virgin bride. “Then it’s a good thing you’re not going about it the same way as Leah.” Marianne shook her head. “I don’t know how Leah can do it. Date a guy for five years and then be engaged for two years. I would go insane.” “You’re half-way there,” Elizabeth teased. Marianne stuck out her tongue. “You know, I would marry Ben without the hoopla of a big wedding. I wouldn’t like it, but I would do it. I would want to be married to him while we were saving money for the future.”

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Elizabeth shrugged, “To each their own, I guess.” Marianne leaned forward. “Do you know what I think?” Elizabeth hesitated. Marianne had that look in her eye. Everyone knew that Marianne was highly intuitive, and she was rarely wrong. “What?” Elizabeth asked. “I don’t think Leah and Pete will get to the altar. At least not together.” That caught Elizabeth unaware. “No way. Leah and Pete are the perfect couple.” Marianne shook her head. “No. They’ve been bickering a lot. Fighting, really. And it all started right before they became engaged.” Elizabeth grabbed for the papers on the table and started sorting them out, trying to get her mind off of what Marianne had to say. “They may be fighting a lot but that’s natural. Their relationship has made a big change.” “So what. Ben and I don’t fight and we just got engaged. In fact, I think our relationship is a lot stronger, more exciting, since we made plans to marry. Definitely more passionate than Leah and Pete’s relationship. Those two act more like old friends than lovers.” Everything Marianne said was true, but Elizabeth didn’t want to hear it. Leah and Pete were the only couple she had seen where the man treated the woman as an equal. Elizabeth wanted that relationship to succeed for her own selfish reasons, as well as for her friend Leah. “You know who else seems to have a very passionate relationship?” Marianne asked with a wicked glint in her eye. Elizabeth glanced up from the papers she was sorting. “Please, if this is about Jackie and that guy she picked up at your engagement party, I don’t want to know.” “I’m talking about you and Adam Schmidt.” Elizabeth froze, her mind besieged with the image of Adam. Just thinking about him— which she had been doing a lot of lately—made her heart slam against her ribcage. “Me and Adam Schmidt?” she repeated, her voice sounding a little too high even to her ears, “I don’t think so. I hate to break it to you, Marianne, but that intuitive brain of yours just shorted out.” “I saw the two of you at the party. Adam couldn’t stay away from you.” Although the statement secretly thrilled her, Elizabeth stomped out any hopeful fantasy that sneaked into her traitorous mind. “No, he just can’t stand any woman with a feminist viewpoint. He wanted to tell me how wrong I am about everything.” Marianne shook her head. “If he couldn’t stand you, he would have kept away.”

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Elizabeth started rustling the papers in her hand loudly. “Come on, Marianne. Let’s start looking through these brochures.” “Okay, okay. I can tell you don’t want to talk about Adam.” Marianne said. “Although I don’t know why. He’s fun and exciting. What wrong in flirting with him? It wouldn’t be anything serious, so I don’t know why you’re getting so nervous about the topic.” “I’m not nervous,” Elizabeth grumbled as she made a pointed effort in studying the brochures. Nervous is not how she would describe herself. Unprepared and unable to cope with the idea of Adam being interested in her. Yep, that would definitely be a better description. She wouldn’t admit it to anyone, but she was attracted to Adam. Very attracted. Elizabeth had dated some in high school, and had a serious boyfriend for a short time last year. None of those men had the magnetic force like Adam. She was instantly drawn to him. His playful eyes and sexy smile made her heart do a funny dance. She wanted to do all those traditionally feminine things like flip her hair and bat her eyes to catch his attention. And that made her mad. Elizabeth couldn’t stand women like that. She wanted to gag when she saw her friend Jackie go into manhunter mode. She hated it when her sister would ooze with feminine charm to gain male attention. She looked down on those types of women, and the sight of a very sexy man almost made her act like one. Her self-disgust transfigured into a fighting attitude. She didn’t want Adam to see how she was attracted to him. A capable, intelligent and strong woman could not be attracted to a man with a playboy image. A man who, although was charming and kind to women, saw them only as bedmates. Fighting with Adam seemed to be the best way to hide her instinctive, true feelings. Elizabeth felt very confused about her reaction when she knew better than to be interested in him. And it turned out for the best, because fighting with him was the best way of protecting herself. If Adam knew how much she wanted to ogle him, to touch him, she would be mortified. Since the engagement party, Elizabeth had given herself a very stern lecture. From this point on, she would not become a simpering fool in front of Adam. The best way to achieve that was to avoid him. It shouldn’t be too difficult. Marianne’s sister was the maid of honor, and there would be no bridesmaids. Elizabeth had the small task of reading from the scriptures. That meant she

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could easily get out of any wedding-related function. Adam would be too busy to notice her anyway. The phone rang in the kitchen. “I’ll be right back,” Marianne said as she jumped up. She groaned as she heard the buzz of the doorbell. “I’ll get the door.” Elizabeth offered. The moment she opened the door, Elizabeth wished she had some of Marianne’s famous intuition, or at least a smidgen of psychic ability. Standing in front of her were Ben and Adam. Elizabeth paused for a moment, drinking in the sight of Adam. His blue T-shirt was dusty, but emphasized his muscular arms and chest. His jeans were worn and showed streaks of dirt, but fitted him perfectly. Elizabeth had a mental image of what she looked like after a long day in a scorching hot car. Her green T-shirt was limp and her matching cotton shorts were crumpled. When Adam got dusty and dirty, he looked rugged and all male. She just looked grimy. It wasn’t fair, but that still didn’t stop her from thoroughly looking over Adam. He was an incredibly gorgeous man. And he knew it. She glanced at his eyes that gleamed with male confidence. Her drooling immediately stopped and her fighting instinct kicked in. For some reason, it was important not to show how affected she was of his presence. It was important not to show any vulnerability in front of this man. “Hi, Ben. Adam,” she nodded as she opened the screen door and allowed them to enter the house. She felt very pleased with the polite tone of her voice. “What brings you here?” “We’re supposed to get Marianne’s hope chest out of the attic,” Ben informed her. Elizabeth focused her attention on Ben, fighting the urge to let her eyes wander on Adam. “Mrs. Braun wanted us to do it before her husband got home. She doesn’t want him to lift anything heavy.” Elizabeth nodded her head in understanding. Marianne’s father had been dealing with poor health for years and recently underwent heart surgery. Even though Mr. Braun knew he was not supposed to lift heavy objects, his male pride got in the way of common sense. “Where’s Marianne?” Ben asked. “On the phone.” Elizabeth said and watched as Ben made a beeline for the kitchen. Leaving her alone with Adam.

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Elizabeth slowly turned to Adam, feeling nervous and awkward. She hated feeling that way, but she couldn’t help it. The best thing she could do was to hide it. She decided to kept chitchat to a minimum. It would make her look bored and unaffected. Perfect. Her perfect plan went up in smoke the minute she made eye contact. Adam was leaning against the wall, watching her with arrogant amusement. Her defenses went up as she folded her arms across her chest and acquired the classic argument stance. “What?” she demanded, arching an eyebrow. “Nothing.” Both her eyebrows shot up. “I’m just wondering why someone who slammed weddings and marriages two weeks ago is spending her Saturday organizing one,” Adam elaborated. “Seems to me the lady doth protest too much.” “I am not organizing a wedding. I am helping my best friend with the leg work.” Adam shrugged. “It’s the same thing.” “No, it’s not,” Elizabeth responded hotly. She wondered why this guy could bother her with in a matter of minutes with just a few words. To be honest, it wasn’t just his words; it was his presence that got her bothered. Hot and bothered. “I don’t know about you, but I always help out my friends. Whether I agree with their choices are not.” Elizabeth turned and walked out of the room, hoping she didn’t flounce. “Sounds to me you’re kind of hypocritical,” Adam remarked, following Elizabeth close behind. “Ooh, a five syllable word. I’m so impressed,” Elizabeth said as she walked to the dining table and gathered the papers. “Too bad you don’t know what it means.” “It means you say your beliefs are one thing, but then your actions contradict your statement,” Adam explained in an exaggerated tone. Elizabeth glanced at his face, wondering if she offended him, but her worries were a waste of time. His eyes flashed with amusement and were alert, eagerly waiting to slam down her next zinger. “My beliefs about weddings and marriages are genuine.” Elizabeth felt the need to explain. “But I am not going to bash my ideas over my friend’s head. Marianne decided she wanted to marry, and I respect her decision.”

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“Yeah, right, you do,” Adam said with a knowing smile. “You probably hate the idea of her getting married, but you don’t want to alienate your best friend, so you keep quiet. Hypocrite.” “If anyone is a hypocrite, it’s you.” “Me?” “Yes, you. You’re the best man. You’re taking part of a ceremony you don’t believe in. Worse still, you’re standing up at the altar to show your support for the wedding, and you don’t even agree with the concept of marriage.” “Ben asked me to stand by him. Ever heard of brotherly love and loyalty? Anyway, honey, you should just admit it.” “Admit what? And don’t call me ‘honey’.” “You really enjoy organizing a wedding. You’re probably living out a dream you’ve had since you were a girl. I bet you married your Barbie doll with Ken a million times.” “Why would I want to do that? As far as I’m concerned Ken is just an accessory.” Adam continued as if Elizabeth hadn’t spoken. “Planning every detail, finding the right dress. It’s okay, honey. It’s natural. All women love this whole wedding thing.” “First of all, don’t call me ‘honey’, ‘hon’, or any other sexist nickname that is stored in that redneck brain of yours. My name is Elizabeth. Secondly, stop generalizing women. Not all women like weddings.” “But they all like to get involved.” “Oh, that is so untrue. The women take care of the planning and details because the bride would be so overwhelmed with the work. In fact, the women do almost all the work for a wedding because the men won’t. It’s a sign of things to come.” “The men won’t do some of those jobs because they find it totally unnecessary. Weddings used to be so simple; you find a priest, you get married. Before that, the man just kidnapped the woman. That’s the best solution. You get the woman and you don’t have to sign any legal contracts.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “You are impossible.” “Yeah, and that’s what you like about me the most.” “No, that’s just the only thing I can tolerate about you,” Elizabeth corrected as she marched into the kitchen.

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She almost collided into Ben who was using the phone. Marianne cuddled close to him, his arm wrapped possessively around her waist. “Elizabeth!” she whispered excitedly. “One of the reception halls we visited today just received a cancellation in October. We’re going to take it!” Elizabeth nodded. “Cool.” She nearly stumbled as she felt Adam right behind her. His warm breath feathered the hair around her ear. She instinctively curled her head into her shoulder, her neck becoming overly sensitive. “Can you show Adam where the hope chest is?” Marianne asked. “Ben’s almost finished with the arrangements.” “Sure. Come on, Schmidt,” she said gruffly as she walked through the kitchen to the mudroom. Her mind raced for a way to hide her reaction to him. She quickly thought of a safe topic to discuss. “Have you ever been a best man?” “Nope. I’ve been an usher too many times to count, and I’ve been a groomsman about a dozen times. Being a best man should not be any different.” “Well, then, you really are in for a big surprise.” Adam frowned. “What do you mean?” “It’s just all the stuff you need to do for the wedding. The best man has a few responsibilities.” “What’s so difficult about standing at the altar and giving a ring when asked?” Elizabeth chuckled. “Don’t forget about the bachelor party you have to organize.” She turned around when she heard a frustrated groan. Elizabeth was surprised to see the expression on Adam’s face. He had the look of a man with the world resting on his shoulders. His eyes were closed, but he seemed exhausted and weary. This side of him did not fit the golden boy image he portrayed. The moment Elizabeth moved toward him, his eyelids flickered open. He must have noticed her look of concern because his tired look instantly vanished. “Is something wrong?” Elizabeth asked. “No, nothing,” Adam shrugged it off. “It’s just that October is a busy month in my business.” Adam looked surprised that he mentioned a concern about his work. Elizabeth wondered if he usually kept his worries to himself. “October? I thought—”

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“Adam, stop boring Elizabeth about your business,” Ben interrupted with a smile as he strolled into the mudroom with Marianne. Elizabeth could have cheerfully wiped that smile off of Ben’s face when she felt Adam’s withdrawal. She knew Adam was already regretting mentioning anything. Adam reminded Elizabeth of her late father. He kept his own counsel, whether the problem was insignificant or important. Elizabeth didn’t like that character trait in either man. They believed they were tough enough to handle things on their own. It just showed their machismo was deeply ingrained into their personality and would never be altered. Since it couldn’t be altered, Elizabeth knew to play along until she found a way around it. She learned that a long time ago with her father. And, in this case, she decided to ignore the newly revealed side of Adam. She turned to Ben and said, “He wasn’t boring me. I happen to be interested in business.” “Elizabeth is going back to school to get a business degree. Maybe even an MBA,” Marianne announced. Elizabeth could feel her face turn red. She wanted to vanish immediately from the spot. Ben looked at her with disbelief. Elizabeth didn’t dare look at Adam. “You!” Ben said incredulously. “But you’re a secretary.” “Yeah,” Elizabeth said with a wanna-make-something-out-of-it tone. It didn’t help matters that Ben already had a business degree and an MBA. It just made her feel that he had inside information that could prove she couldn’t get a business degree. She wouldn’t let him make her think that. She knew she could do it. She’d helped her exboyfriend study and research while he finished his business degree. If he could do it, she could. Elizabeth wasn’t going to let anyone tell her that she would fail. Ben obviously did want to tell her otherwise. He was going to say something more, but Elizabeth turned around and opened the door to the attic. “Don’t you guys have to get the hope chest or something? Do you need any help?” Ben looked offended. “I think Adam and I can handle it.” “Well, if you need a hand,” Elizabeth said sweetly, “just holler.” Ben ignored her and went up the steps. Adam moved forward, brushing up against Elizabeth’s arm. “This is a man’s job, darling,” he teased, his eyes twinkling.

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Elizabeth looked at him straight in the eye, trying to ignore the electric tingling that coursed through her arm. “You call me ‘darling’ again and I will whack you upside the head with that hope chest.” Adam grinned and turned to Marianne, who was watching them knowingly. “She has a violent nature, doesn’t she? By the way, what does a hope chest look like?” Elizabeth and Marianne exchanged amused glances. “I’ll go with them,” Marianne said, and then cocked her head toward the back door. “Uh, oh. I think I hear Dad’s car. Stall him!” “No problem,” Elizabeth said as she hurried out. ***** Adam had just settled down at the kitchen table with Ben and Marianne when Elizabeth entered the house with the elder Brauns. Enter was probably too weak of a word. Elizabeth didn’t walk into a room. She burst— exploded—into the room, electrifying the atmosphere. Strangely, her bold personality didn’t drain those around her. Quite the opposite. Adam felt energized and alive when he was around her. “Thanks so much, Mr. Braun,” Elizabeth was saying as the older man walked to the sink to wash his hands. “When my car started smoking, I just freaked.” She looked over at the table and winked at Adam. He smiled back, ridiculously pleased that she acknowledged his presence. “It’s fixed now,” Mr. Braun said, “but you need a mechanic to look at it.” He turned and saw the others. “Hello, Ben. Hi, Adam. What brings you here?” “We reserved our reception for the first of October,” Marianne announced, her blue eyes shimmering with excitement. Mrs. Braun immediately shifted into mother-of-the-bride mode and spoke excitedly—and incoherently—for a few moments. She urgently shepherded Ben, Marianne, and her husband into the dining room to look at the detailed brochure. Elizabeth paused for a moment. Adam knew she was debating whether to sit with him or listen to more wedding plans. He wondered which was the lesser of the two evils. He grinned when she pulled out a chair and sat next to him. “Your car is smoking?” Adam said in a low conspiratorial tone. “Very creative.”

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“Not really. My car smokes all the time. I just turn it off, jiggle some tubes under the hood, give it a good kick, and then its fine.” Adam eyes widened. “You treat your car like that? No wonder it’s giving you problems.” Elizabeth shrugged. “Where are my manners?” Mrs. Braun asked herself as she fluttered into the kitchen. “I’m sure you men are dying of thirst.” “Don’t worry, Mrs. B.,” Elizabeth said. “Go on back into the dining room. Adam and I will make some lemonade.” Adam made a face at Elizabeth. It was just her style to volunteer him for a job. “No, no,” Mrs. Braun said. “Adam has done enough already. He just needs to sit back and relax. But you could make some of your fantastic lemonade.” Mrs. Braun flurried out the door. Adam leaned back in his chair, knowing he wore a very smug expression, but wasn’t going to do anything to hide it. When Elizabeth shot him a killing glance, his grin broke into a smile. “You’ve done enough already?” Elizabeth asked with disbelief as she rose from her seat. “You lifted a wooden box and moved it into a different room. Big deal.” He studied her stubborn face. What was the problem? It was only lemonade. Adam didn’t have to ask Elizabeth. She was making her position known as she moved around the kitchen, grumbling. “I’m the one who searched the town for reception halls,” she announced as she banged down the plastic pitcher on the table. “And got the Bridal Registry information.” The cutting board went down with a thud. “Let’s not forget the two bridal salons.” She plunked down the sugar container and marched back to the cabinets. “One of those saleswomen acted like she was too good to even talk to us. Like we really needed that!” She marched back and littered the table with more kitchen gadgets. “We came back hot and tired. No one made us a cold drink.” Elizabeth grabbed a lemon from the bowl and cut it in half with a vengeance. Adam watched Elizabeth rant on as she forcefully sawed the lemons. He leaned forward and rested his chin on his hand, fascinated.

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“No,” Elizabeth continued. “Instead, we have to pamper the men who lifted a box.” “I like a lot of sugar in my lemonade,” Adam said, ignoring Elizabeth’s passionate speech. Elizabeth stopped what she was doing and glared at Adam. “You better be careful, Schmidt. I’m armed.” Adam just smiled. “Can you hurry on that? I’m real thirsty after lifting that box.” Elizabeth tilted her head and flipped her hair back. She batted her eyelashes, which only made him focus on the angry glitter of her brown eyes. “You wish is my command, master,” she said in a husky, feminine voice that made his head buzz. “Would you like mint in your lemonade? Or perhaps some rat poison?” Adam stared at her. He might need a shot of whisky in his lemonade. He knew she was playing a part that she clearly found demeaning. So why did her eye-batting and seductive voice make his breath stop? Why was his stomach curling up with desire over a woman who was complaining like a shrew? It didn’t make any sense. Adam quietly cleared his throat. “Plain would be fine.” Elizabeth glared at him for a moment longer before she continued making the lemonade, mumbling something under her breath about men not understanding the finer points of sarcasm. Adam decided to let that slide, believing it would be a bad move if he delved deeper into the topic. Deciding there probably was no such thing as a safe conversation with Elizabeth, he quietly watched her work. He was slightly amused as she carefully measured everything, making sure the measuring cups were exact and evenly leveled. She was making a simple task into a complex chemistry experiment. “Why don’t you just dump the sugar in and take a taste test?” Adam finally asked. “Hey, you had the opportunity to make lemonade. Since I’m making it, I’ll do it my way,” Elizabeth answered as she slowly poured in the sugar and stirred briskly. She poured the lemonade into a glass and offered it to Adam. “Here, try it.” “Me? After you made that crack about rat poison?” Elizabeth sighed. “Just try it.” Adam took the glass and sipped cautiously. “Ack!” he coughed as he grabbed his throat and gasped for air. He set his cup down just in time before the convulsions hit his body.

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Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Very funny.” She took the cup and drank from it, shocking Adam out of his role as a dying victim. There was something very intimate about sharing a glass, and she did it so casually. Maybe she didn’t think of him as a pesky insect anymore. Hey, he was moving on up. “Perfect.” Elizabeth proclaimed and started pouring the lemonade in the other glasses. “You obviously don’t know a thing about lemonade.” “Then it’s a good thing I didn’t make it.” Adam rose up from his seat. “Here, I’ll carry that in.” “No, thanks. You would just get pampered even more because you carried a heavy wooden tray.” It was Adam’s turn to roll his eyes. “Well, at least let me open the heavy wooden door, or would that offend the inner feminist in you?” “It would.” “Then I must.” Adam smiled as he made his way for the door. “That’s quite all right.” It was too late as he opened the door. “But I insist, sweetheart.” “’Sweetheart’?” Ben and Marianne repeated, turning to face the door. “That’s what he calls all women so he doesn’t have to remember their names,” Elizabeth said as she walked to the dining table. “His…brain is already overloaded with the names of his three hundred girlfriends.” She smiled sweetly at Adam. Adam scowled back. Is that what she thinks of him? That he couldn’t remember her name? That he calls her the same nickname as the rest of the women he knew? And what was this about three hundred girlfriends? Three hundred! If that were true, he would be a walking case study for the Center for Disease Control. “I’m sorry,” Elizabeth said in a sugary tone. “Was three hundred too low an estimate?” Adam was saved from replying when Mrs. Braun interrupted. “This lemonade is wonderful, Elizabeth. You may hate working in the kitchen, but you still make the best lemonade.” “Thank you, Mrs. Braun.” “Now, why don’t you sit down with me and we can decide on what day to have the shower.”

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Adam could feel Elizabeth freeze next to him. “Shower?” “Yes, the bridal shower. I think we should have it a month before the wedding and before things get really hectic,” Mrs. Braun explained. “I thought Marie would be in charge of it since she is the maid of honor.” “Unfortunately, Marie can’t manage it since she lives in Chicago. But you, on the other hand, would be the perfect hostess.” “I would?” Elizabeth asked. Adam chuckled softly. He may have only known Elizabeth for a couple of weeks, but he knew she was furiously thinking of a nice, polite refusal. Elizabeth turned and glared at him. He smiled innocently and said, “Well, I guess this is the time for the men to leave.” “Yep,” Mr. Braun said as he got up from the table. “Our part is over as of this moment. The women now take matters into their own hands. You’ll just be told when and where to show up for the wedding.” Mrs. Braun and Marianne were groaning at the exaggeration while Adam leaned down to whisper in Elizabeth’s ear. He inhaled her perfume. This time the Liz Claiborne scent went to his head like a mind-altering drug. “Don’t have too much fun, princess,” he said. “I know how excited women get thinking of all those cute decorations.” Elizabeth turned around and gave him a deadly look. “Okay. You asked for it. This is war.” Adam raised an eyebrow in response. “Why? What did I do?” “You called me ‘princess’.” Adam was trying to figure out the horrible crime in that when Elizabeth said in a crystal clear voice. “Adam came up with a wonderful idea. Since the men don’t have much input, he thinks he should…host a shower for Ben.” Mr. Braun cast a questioning look at Adam. Ben’s mouth hung open in shock. Marianne gave Elizabeth a knowing look, but said nothing. Mrs. Braun clasped her hands together and said, “That’s a wonderful idea, Adam. I don’t know why I hadn’t thought of it.”

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Adam couldn’t believe Elizabeth had such a devious mind. And that sly witch just declared war on him. He had to think fast. He could surrender right now, or he could fight to the bitter end. Let her win, or waste valuable time and energy waging a war. Decisions, decisions. “I’m sorry,” Adam finally said, “I think you misunderstood me. I said that I think we should jointly host a shower for the bride and groom. Make it a big, blowout party. What do you think, princess?”

Chapter Three “What just happened?” Ben asked as he got into Adam’s truck and slammed the door. Adam smiled, shaking his head. He started the truck and turned the air conditioner on high. Ben continued. “Why do I have a feeling Elizabeth had something to do with this?” “Because you are a smart man,” Adam replied with an even wider smile as he readjusted the air vents. “You know,” Ben said, “if you’re interested in her, then ask for a date. After the wedding.” Adam turned to his younger brother. “Date? I don’t want to date her.” Elizabeth Meier did not fit the type of his usual dates. He preferred the live-for-the-weekend woman. A woman who didn’t tax his brain, but just wanted fun and relaxation. A woman who could rearrange her calendar for any plans he made. Elizabeth Meier was definitely not that kind of woman. “Then why are you of all people organizing a shower with her? And don’t tell me it’s because the men are shut out of the wedding plans. You and I both know that’s bullshit.” “Let’s just say she threw a challenge into my face and I had to accept.” He didn’t mention that he threw one back. That he wasn’t going to bear the burden by himself. Instead, they were going to organize a party together. The horror on her face was worth the trouble. “But I don’t want a damn bridal shower!” Ben said. “Don’t worry,” Adam returned as he drove his truck. “This is going to be a man’s shower.” If there was such a thing. “I’ll make sure of it.”

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Ben folded his arms across his chest and looked at Adam. “And where will Elizabeth be during all this? Locked in a closet, bound and gagged?” The idea had potential. “I can handle Elizabeth just fine.” “Yeah, right. The last time you thought that, you got roped into planning a bridal shower.” Adam didn’t argue, although he knew that wasn’t the case. He could have gotten out of it. He chose to stay in it, with a little help from Elizabeth. This shower thing could be interesting. Or it could be hell. The fact was, he didn’t know a whole lot about Elizabeth. The number one rule about war was “know thine enemy”. The tricky part would be asking about Elizabeth without looking too interested. He didn’t need the whole wedding party trying to match him up with the temperamental tigress. “Elizabeth didn’t seem so bad,” Adam said to begin. It was all he needed to say. “Not so bad? Not so bad!” Ben said loudly. “Elizabeth is the most stubborn, bull-headed person I know. When she has an opinion, there is absolutely no way you can change it.” “Really?” Adam said, remembering how vocal she was about marriage. “I’m warning you. She has very definite ideas about parties. She goes hog wild for her friends’ birthdays.” “Hmm. I wonder what the bachelorette party will be like.” Ben tensed up. “There will be no bachelorette party.” “What is Elizabeth’s opinion on that?” “I said there would be no bachelorette party.” “Mm-hmm,” Adam said, concentrating on the road. “Wonder what her opinion is on overbearing fiancés.” Ben groaned and rubbed his forehead with both hands. “Just promise me something.” “What?” “No flowery stuff at the shower.” Adam chuckled. “I think I can manage that.” “And absolutely no shower games.” “Okay.” “And no sticky sweet punch, no dainty finger food...” Adam sighed. Such was life in a small town.

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***** Elizabeth was running back to her desk when she heard her phone ringing. It was a busy Monday, just a little after twelve. She had sprinted across the building to hand in a twenty million dollar trade that needed to be processed by noon. She barely made it this time. Rather than feeling frazzled about the tight deadline, she felt ready to conquer the world. Taking it all in stride, Elizabeth dashed over to her cubicle and picked up the phone while speaking in her most professional tone, “Fixed Income Department. Elizabeth speaking.” “Hi, princess.” Elizabeth nearly dropped the phone. She caught the cord and quickly shoved the receiver to her ear. She was expecting this call since she’d left a message at his office. So why did she suddenly become nervous? Trying to mask her jittery state, she grumbled, “Stop calling me ‘princess’.” “Sure. Once you tell me why it bothers you so much.” “Who says it bothers me?” “No one. I can just tell when you’re about ready to bite my head off.” “And you don’t recognize that calling me ‘princess’ is hazardous to your health?” “Now, why is it hazardous to my health?” “It just is.” “Beep. Wrong answer. Seems like you are going to have the permanent nickname of ‘princess’.” “Just me and the whole female population in town? Might get confusing.” Elizabeth cringed the moment the words left her mouth. Why did she mention the other women? It made her sound jealous. And she wasn’t jealous. No way. Definitely not. “Not the whole female population. Just the three hundred fifty in the county.” “Oh, so now we’ve raised the numbers and the area in just two days?” “Well, it was the weekend.” “Oh, please.” Elizabeth made a face. “Just for the record, I don’t think I even know three hundred women, let alone date that many.”

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Elizabeth was stunned to hear this from the town’s most eligible bachelor. “Okay.” Now why was he telling her that, she wondered. “And, secondly, you are the only person I call ‘princess’.” At that moment she realized how important it was for her to be differentiated from the other women he knew. Just the idea of being grouped together with all his female acquaintances was depressing. To know that she was given an exclusive nickname—no matter how trivial it was, or how much she disliked the name—thrilled her. And her reaction was scary. Despite her confused feelings, Elizabeth was compelled to ask in her most unimpressed tone, “Why do I get this special honor?” “Because it bothers you so much.” “I should have known.” Realizing they were going around in circles, Elizabeth decided to get on with business. “Aren’t you even wondering why I called you?” “You wanted to hear my voice?” Adam asked playfully, exaggerating the hopeful tone. “No,” Elizabeth replied firmly. “I was calling to let you know that I don’t expect you to work on the shower. I got you into it unfairly, and I’m not going to hold you to it.” There was a brief silence on the other end. “I should have expected this,” Adam murmured, almost to himself. “Don’t worry. I’ll take care of it all. If anyone asks, just tell them everything is under control.” “Mm-hmm.” “What? I thought you’d be happy not to plan this party.” “Oh, but I want to plan this party.” “You…do?” A sense of dread spread through her stomach. “It’s really not a big deal,” Adam continued. “You get a few kegs of beer and some bags of chips. Bam! You have a wedding shower.” “Uh…wait a second. I think we have different ideas on what a bridal shower is.” “We are not having a bridal shower. We are having a wedding shower.” “What’s the difference?” “A bridal shower is about giving presents to the bride. A wedding shower is giving presents to the bride and groom.”

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Elizabeth was already looking for aspirin in her desk drawer when he finished. “You know,” Elizabeth said, “maybe we should get together and plan this.” “Sounds good.” “How about Saturday afternoon?” “No good. I’ll be working. How ‘bout tonight?” “Can’t.” “Hot date?” “No, I’m taking my entrance exam for college,” Elizabeth mumbled, feeling very uncomfortable about the conversation. She wouldn’t have said anything but Adam had proven to be as tenacious as a bulldog. “Oh, yeah? I know a lot of people who went to college. I’m sure you don’t want to hear their horror stories.” “No, I don’t.” “Smart move. Well, then let’s get together for lunch.” “I only get a half hour lunch break, and I get it around one o’clock, if I’m lucky,” Elizabeth warned as she glanced over to her bosses’ offices. She was surprised no one hovered over her desk with disapproval because of her long phone conversation. “Okay. How about tomorrow, one o’clock, at the Main Street Bistro?” “That’s fine.” Elizabeth did a quick calculation, deciding her budget could handle the unexpected luxury of eating out. “See you there.” “Good luck on the entrance exam. I’m sure you’ll do great.” Elizabeth was surprised by his best wishes. Did he know it was very important to her, no matter how much she tried to hide it? “Thanks,” Elizabeth replied softly, slightly unbalanced by his thoughtful words. “Bye.” She quickly hung up the phone as she saw one of her bosses walk toward her desk. ***** “A bowling alley? You want to have a wedding shower at a bowling alley?” Was he for real? Elizabeth studied Adam’s face. He seemed sincere, which was really scary. “Are you nuts?” she nearly exploded, and then glanced around the bistro to see if the lunch crowd had

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heard her. Fortunately, no one seemed to care about her outburst. “A bowling alley,” she muttered to herself, shaking her head. Her friends would freak. Adam shrugged as he dug into his chocolate cream pie. Elizabeth stared at him, completely dumbfounded. Throughout lunch Adam seemed very reasonable about the shower. Once Elizabeth veered him away from the flirtatious banter he was bent on, she proposed several days for the shower. He quickly agreed on the last Saturday of August. They also worked out a time that was convenient for both them and the guests. They even figured out a rough estimate on how many guests should attend. The whole conversation went smoothly, which was a pleasant surprise to Elizabeth. Just when she had relaxed and was enjoying her slice of apple pie, he comes up with this ridiculous idea. She tried to be diplomatic, which was never her strong point. “I think a bowling alley would be unsuitable for a wedding shower.” Adam glanced up, his eyes suspiciously bright. “Why?” Elizabeth paused for a moment. “It’s just not done.” “Says who?” “Emily Post,” Elizabeth lied with a straight face. “Who?” “She’s an expert on etiquette. Especially weddings and showers.” “Really? She actually has a list of places you can’t have a wedding shower?” “Yes.” Elizabeth’s eyelids didn’t flicker with her ready lie. “Hmm. What are the ‘proper’ places for a wedding shower?” “A home, a reception hall…” “There are a few bowling alleys I know of that have reception rooms. This way you can open presents and bowl,” Adam informed her, looking a bit smug. Was the man trying to give her a migraine? “Your idea is very…creative, Schmidt,” Elizabeth said in the same tone she uses for her most difficult boss, “but I don’t think renting a hall will fit our budget.” The excuse popped into her head. She was getting a lot of practice thinking on her feet when she was around Adam. “We have a budget?” “Yes. We want the cheapest deal possible, without looking cheap.”

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Adam took another bite of his pie and chewed thoughtfully. “How much does a shower cost?” “Several hundred dollars.” Adam looked surprised. “For a shower?” “Yes.” Elizabeth glanced down at her scribbled notebook. “We’ll split the cost down the middle, okay?” “Don’t worry about the money,” Adam said. “I’m footing the bill.” Elizabeth set her jaw and looked at Adam with as little expression as possible. “No, you’re not.” “Yes, I am.” Adam had the same set jaw and determined glint in his eyes. This was the last thing Elizabeth wanted. This is what she deserved for roping a man into planning a party. Adam, being a man, would throw his money around, believing it would allow him to get out of the work involved. He would also believe he had total control over every aspect of the party. It seemed Adam was cut from the same cloth as the men of her family. The men of the household firmly believed that whoever paid the bills was in charge. Elizabeth knew she had two options. She could act like her mother who publicly agreed with her husband, and then did what she wanted behind his back. Sneaky, effective, but not Elizabeth’s style. She also had a feeling that being sneaky would blow up in her face. Adam would definitely get even. Her other option was to act like her sister. Sara made every money issue a battle with her husband. Although Elizabeth would prefer the honest approach, she didn’t relish the idea of frequent arguments over how every cent was spent. She also had the feeling Adam would prove a worthy opponent. Elizabeth decided to go it her own way. “I want to pay my share,” she said quietly and firmly. “I’m sure you would,” Adam replied. “But look at it this way; this will be the only party—other than the bachelor party—I need to go to. You just told me you’d be going to four bridal showers for Marianne. I think it is only fair that I pay the full amount.” Elizabeth studied his face. He seemed honest. She felt a bit guilty for thinking he wanted to pay in order to gain control. Unfortunately, she was not so kind. It would be easy to graciously accept, but she knew it would backfire. She wanted to be an equal partner, not an errand runner.

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“Thanks, Adam, but let’s see how much it’s going to cost. It might not be that bad.” Elizabeth could kick herself for avoiding the issue. It was so unlike her. Adam shrugged. “Okay.” His eyes suddenly twinkled. “Do you realize this is the first time you used my name?” What was the big deal about that? Elizabeth wondered. Unless she’d said it all dreamy and breathless. Elizabeth willed herself not to blush. “So what?” Elizabeth asked grumpily. “You still haven’t used mine.” “That’s because it doesn’t bother you as much as ‘princess’.” Elizabeth made a face and then pointedly looked at her notebook. “Getting back to business, let’s decide on the theme.” Adam slowly set down his fork. “Theme.” “You know, the main idea of the gifts.” “Huh?” “Bridal showers usually have a theme. A round-the-clock shower, a kitchen shower,” Elizabeth broke off as she noticed Adam’s obvious confusion. “A round-the-clock shower is when a time is written on the guest’s invitation. The guest buys a gift that the newlyweds would use during that time of day.” Adam frowned. “Sounds complicated.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “A kitchen shower is when the guests bring kitchen equipment.” “Boring.” She ignored him. “You could also have a linen shower or—” “You’re not making this up, are you?” “Of course not. Do you have any ideas?” “How about an electronics shower?” “Huh?” “You know, stereos, speakers, computers.” “Too expensive for the guests.” “Yeah,” Adam sighed. “Too bad. How about a garage shower?” “No.” “Why not? Everyone could use more tools.”

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“What would Marianne do with a tool box?” “What would Ben do with a toaster?” Adam countered. “Use it, if Marianne trains him right.” “Don’t go there,” Adam playfully warned. Elizabeth smiled back. “All right. I won’t. Can you think of any theme that both Ben and Marianne would enjoy?” “Lingerie.” Elizabeth shook her head. “Sorry, that theme is already taken. Marianne is having a ‘personal’ shower along with the bachelorette party.” “So there is a bachelorette party.” Adam’s eyebrows lifted with interest. “I thought Ben vetoed the idea.” “Did he?” Elizabeth wanted to kick herself. She needed to be more careful around Adam, or else Ben would cancel the bachelorette party. “You know he did,” Adam said with absolute certainty. “Sorry. I don’t know anything about the party.” Elizabeth busily doodled on her notepad. “Let’s skip the idea of a theme. I think that’ll cause too many problems.” “I agree.” “Good. Now, what about shower games? We can do Bridal Bingo, the Timer and some word games. We also need to think of decorations.” “You must have this thing about decorations,” Adam said. Elizabeth looked up, confused. “What do you mean?” “Rumor has it that you and Marianne ‘decorated’ Ben’s car on his last birthday.” “Yeah, so?” “So?” Adam seemed horrified. “He has a brand new Corvette and you wrapped toilet paper around it so tightly that he couldn’t get inside!” Elizabeth smiled at the memory. “It was one of my better surprises.” “Surprises? Ben nearly had an aneurysm.” “You men and your cars.” Elizabeth shook her head. “What if I promise not to decorate the reception hall with toilet paper? Will that make you feel better?” “Can you also promise not to use any stolen property from the city? You know, street signs, orange cones, traffic lights.”

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Elizabeth set her pen down and folded her arms across her chest. “I see Ben warned you about me.” “Is it true that you almost got arrested by the Neighborhood Watch—” “No.” Elizabeth firmly said, her face burning with embarrassment. She quickly changed the subject. “Let’s hold off on any decision about decorating. What about music?” Adam smiled knowingly, which irritated Elizabeth. She knew he was going to bring up her past escapades at the most inopportune moments. “I got a large CD collection,” Adam said. “Everything from Brooks and Dunn to Alan Jackson.” “And they are…?” Adam’s mouth dropped open in shock. “Just the best country singers of today.” “Oh, country. Do you have anything else?” “Like what?” “Classic rock or pop? Maybe some ‘80s music. I could bring some to...round out your collection. I’m definitely bring my ‘Paradise by the Dashboard Light’.” “You call that music?” “It happens to be my favorite song,” Elizabeth said. “Meatloaf is a musical genius.” “And Ben hates Meatloaf. I think I’ll be in charge of music for the shower.” A thought occurred to Elizabeth. “Is that why you agreed to do this party? To baby-sit me?” “Princess, do I look like a baby-sitter?” Elizabeth smiled. “Hardly.” Adam leaned back and tilted his head. “You know, you don’t look like the type who would steal street signs.” Elizabeth groaned. “I’m not. The Three Wise Men made me do it.” Adam looked confused. “The three wise men? Don’t you mean the devil?” Elizabeth laughed. “No, I’m talking about the drink called the Three Wise Men.” She gave Adam a teasing look. “For someone who hangs out at bars all the time, I’m surprised you haven’t heard of it.” “I don’t hang out at bars all the time,” Adam said, sounding a little irritated at the suggestion. “And when I am at a bar, I drink beer.”

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“Believe me, beer is much better than this drink. It is so nasty you only drink it once in a while, like for birthdays.” “Why is it call the Three Wise Men?” “Because it’s made with Jose Cuervas, Jack Daniels, and Jim Bean.” Adam made a face. “Sounds disgusting.” “It is.” “We’ll stick to beer at the wedding shower.” Elizabeth mentally prepared herself for battle. “You can’t have beer at a wedding shower.” “You’ve got to be kidding.” “No. We can have tea or soft drinks. Maybe lemonade and punch.” “Men do not drink punch.” “Oh please.” Elizabeth glanced at her watch and groaned. “I’m sorry, I’ve got to cut this short. If I’m not back at my desk in five minutes, I’ll get punished with the filing.” Elizabeth grabbed her huge tote bag and began a search mission for her wallet. “We’re going to have to get together and finalize the plans.” “You know, you’re making this shower way too complicated,” Adam said as he reached for his wallet, pulled out some money and threw it on the table. “It’s supposed to be fun and casual. At the rate you’re going, you’ll be a basket case at the party.” “Well excuse me for being organized. Not all of us have the golden touch like you,” Elizabeth grumbled and noticed Adam’s mouth tighten with annoyance. Strange, Elizabeth thought. He seemed put out when she mentioned his golden boy image. But why should he? He’d encouraged that image for so long. “Come on, princess,” Adam said as he grabbed her elbow and helped her out of her seat. “Wait! I still haven’t found my wallet.” “You never will in that bag. And you call yourself organized.” “I am organized. And I need to pay.” “I already did.” Elizabeth’s eyes narrowed in anger. “I don’t want you to pay for my lunch.” “Too late.”

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“It is not.” Elizabeth stopped walking, or at least tried to as Adam escorted her out of the restaurant. “It is now,” Adam said as they stepped onto the sidewalk, smiling down at her before putting on his sunglasses. Elizabeth muttered a few choice words while viciously zipping up her bag. “If that was you sweetly thanking me, then you’re welcome,” Adam said. Elizabeth’s glare would have curled the paint job on his truck. Adam didn’t seem to notice. “I am paying next time,” Elizabeth announced as they hurried through the crosswalk. “Is this your way of asking me out for a date, princess? Gee, I’m touched.” “Do you work at being this annoying, or is it a gift?” “It’s probably a gift, considering I have the golden touch.” There was a slight edge in his light comment. Elizabeth quickly hid her snicker as she realized her unintentional jab bothered him. She would have to remember that the next time he acted all high and mighty. Elizabeth glanced around. “Didn’t you park near the restaurant?” “Yeah, but I’m walking you back to work.” Elizabeth pressed her lips together. A part of her enjoyed Adam’s gallantry while the other part rebelled. “Thank you, but I don’t need an escort. I’m a big girl now and I don’t need to hold hands to cross the street.” “If you want to hold hands, princess, just ask. I don’t need any excuses.” Elizabeth stopped walking, closed her eyes and silently counted to ten. When she opened her eyes, he was still there, his smile wide and blinding in the bright, hot sun. She was tempted to close her eyes and count to one hundred. Instead she shrugged and said, “Well, I can’t stop you from using the sidewalk. Just try and keep up with me. I’m going to be late for work.” Elizabeth hurried down the concrete sidewalk, the brisk pace killing her feet. The annoying man was right beside her, whistling a catchy country tune. He didn’t seem to find the pace difficult, his long legs easily matching her step. When they stopped at the next street light, Adam turned around and casually asked, “How did your entrance exam go?”

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Elizabeth gave him a surprised look. She hadn’t expected Adam to remember her exam, and she certainly hadn’t expected him to ask about it. He couldn’t possibly be interested, Elizabeth decided and shrugged her shoulders as an answer. “That bad, huh?” “No,” Elizabeth replied, annoyed. “I whizzed through the math part. It was the writing an essay that killed me.” The traffic signal changed and they walked across the street. “Well, writing is an important part of business. I think I write more than deal with numbers at work.” “I just hope my essay wasn’t a total disaster.” Elizabeth said, not wanting to think she’d blown her college career before it even got started. “I’m sure it wasn’t. You’re probably more critical about it because you wanted it to be perfect.” Elizabeth threw him another surprised look. How did he know she expected nothing less than perfection? She didn’t think a guy like him was capable of looking that deeply into her personality. A guy who purposely kept everything light and superficial. Maybe she was wrong about him. Or maybe he just took a stab in the dark. Yeah, that was probably more like it. “Well,” Elizabeth said, “I’ll find out my scores next week. Hopefully, I’ll start college in the fall. Right in the middle of planning Marianne’s wedding. Talk about a tight schedule.” “I know what you mean,” Adam said and slowed down as he heard someone call his name. Elizabeth automatically stopped and turned. “Adam!” A beautiful blonde woman ran up to him, launching herself at him like a heat-seeking missile. When she exuberantly kissed him smack dab on the mouth, an unfamiliar feeling burned through Elizabeth. It was much stronger than anger, and she knew her face expressed her dark emotions. It took a lot of willpower to appear unaffected. “I think I’ll leave you two alone,” Elizabeth said in what she hoped was a light, breezy tone as she watched Adam embrace the blonde goddess. Adam immediately broke away from the woman, easily disengaging himself. “Sorry,” he muttered. “I don’t think you know each other.” Elizabeth glanced over at the woman and swallowed her groan of frustration. The blonde goddess was none other than Lisa Jurgen. She was a couple years older than Elizabeth, but Lisa

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had been a legend back in high school. She had been the most beautiful and the most popular student. Other students had followed her love life religiously as if it was a soap opera. Her party animal image had escalated to mythic proportions. To put it simply, she was perfect for Adam Schmidt. The hot acid that was eating away at Elizabeth suddenly congealed, making her feel sick. She didn’t know why she cared, or why she was upset by this insight, but it mattered to her. Worst of all, it became glaringly obvious that Elizabeth was nothing like Adam’s type. He was only with her because of the stupid wedding shower. Elizabeth had forgotten that for a while, but now the fact was beating her over the head. “Hello,” Elizabeth said, forcing herself to hold out her hand. “I’m Elizabeth Meier.” Lisa shook her hand. “I’m Lisa Jurgen.” Elizabeth willed herself to give a friendly smile when she noticed Lisa’s perfectly manicured hand. Elizabeth’s own hand looked short and stubby in comparison. She became uncomfortably conscious of her appearance while standing next to Lisa. Although Elizabeth was wearing a crisp white blouse and smart navy skirt, she appeared dowdy while Lisa looked stylish in a hot pink dress. Elizabeth wanted out of there and fast. “It was nice to meet you,” Elizabeth said. “I apologize for running off like this, but I’m late for work.” “Oh, I understand,” Lisa said with a friendly smile. Adam stood in Elizabeth’s way. “I said I’d walk you back.” Elizabeth looked at Adam without making eye contact. “There’s no need. I’ll talk to you later.” Elizabeth dodged around Adam. “I’ll call you.” Adam said. “Yeah, whatever.” Elizabeth said as she dashed away. Elizabeth almost broke into a full run, and it wasn’t because she was late for work. She didn’t know what had come over her. It was horrible. She’d felt a whole gamut of emotions when Lisa had been in Adam’s arms. If she didn’t know any better, she would think it was jealousy. Elizabeth came to a sudden stop. Jealousy. Like a robot, Elizabeth walked to the next crosswalk. Could she be jealous? That was the last thing she needed. Anyway, she had no right to be jealous. Adam wasn’t hers, and would never be hers.

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The knowledge pierced her heart. Elizabeth’s head hung low and she took a deep breath. Great. She was jealous. She wanted Adam. There, she’d admitted it to herself. So, why wasn’t this newfound knowledge making her feel free? Instead, an invisible weight bore down on her. Elizabeth knew that her infatuation was useless. Adam didn’t want her. Adam probably didn’t even think about her when she’s not in his face arguing about something. Get a grip, Elizabeth thought to herself. She was infatuated over Adam. So what? She recognized the situation, and that was half the battle. It didn’t mean she had to act on it. She knew it was nothing serious and she could handle it. After all, she knew what Adam was like. He was the kind of guy she disliked and avoided. He was an annoying, pig-headed male chauvinist. After dealing with him for the next two months, she would be sick of him. Her infatuation would die by that time, if not sooner. She would wonder a year from now what she had ever seen in the guy. Elizabeth felt a whole lot better after analyzing the situation. She was in control of her emotions and knew she could handle Adam. Now all she had to do was get through the next two months without making a fool out of herself.

Chapter Four “One more day,” Adam muttered to himself as he parked his Dodge Ram truck and hopped out. One more day and he would be free from this purgatory, otherwise known as planning a wedding shower. What had he been thinking when he’d accepted Elizabeth’s challenge? He should have known the whole hoopla was going to be nothing but a pain in the butt, Elizabeth being the most annoying pain. Adam shook his head as he walked to Elizabeth’s workplace. That irritating woman was a spoiled brat. And he still had fun being with her. How weird is that? Everything had to be her way, and she fought for it tooth and nail. She wanted the works for the shower, everything from lacy decorations to the most ridiculous games. It took all of Adam’s energy just to remain firm with his decisions. Elizabeth was the most persistent fighter

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he’d ever met. He’d learned that about her real fast when he’d thought she’d dropped a subject only to bring it around ten minutes later. It was exhausting as much as it was exhilarating. Adam wasn’t sure if he had turned out to be the victor in this shower ordeal. Elizabeth wanted everything delicate and dainty, but Adam eventually turned it around to be a casual barbecue at a campground. She insisted on games, and they eventually settled for beach volleyball and swimming. She did win the debate over decorations, but thankfully they were going to be festive and not feminine. At least, that’s what she’d promised. If she put up one thing that was pink and flowery, there was going to be a battle. Well, at least he’ll know her plans tonight. He was picking her up at work and taking her to the camping lodge. They planned to get the place ready for the onslaught Saturday. Adam smiled as he turned the corner to the trust company where Elizabeth worked. She’d called him this morning asking for a ride because her car was having problems. Elizabeth seemed very uncomfortable about asking such a favor. Adam didn’t like her attitude. She should know that even independent feminists need assistance once in a while. Nevertheless, Elizabeth obviously hated the idea of receiving help. Especially from a man. Especially from him. Adam braced himself as he opened the entrance door to the trust company where Elizabeth worked. The air-conditioned interior felt almost arctic as he stepped into the lobby. He preferred the hot August breeze to the artificial air. He didn’t understand how Elizabeth could work in such conditions. “Hey, Adam!” Marianne greeted. His future sister-in-law was the receptionist. The job suited her personality. Her sunny disposition was not only shown on her face, but also expressed in her clothing and on her desk. Adam walked over to Marianne, vaguely wondering what her desk looked like today. It was truly personalized. There was hardly any workspace since the flat surface was jammed with framed pictures and mementoes. When a holiday was approaching, her desk commemorated the occasion. Labor Day was not for another week, but Marianne was surrounded by red, white and blue. Even the tunic top she wore had a stars and stripes pattern.

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“How’s it going, Adam?” Marianne asked as she dealt with a mountain of mail and small packages. Adam had no idea what she was doing, but Marianne was handling the parcels with brisk efficiency while talking to him. “Elizabeth hasn’t killed me yet, so I think the party will be a success.” He leaned against her desk, studying the framed pictures that were displayed. Elizabeth was in most of them. Marianne smiled. “I’m sure it will be, especially since it took you guys over a month to plan it.” “I could have planned it in a couple of hours,” Adam defended himself, “but you know how Elizabeth is. She has to have things her way, and she can be very stubborn about it.” Marianne’s eyes twinkled as she handed some messages to a guy in a suit that whizzed by. “Really? Strange. That’s exactly what Elizabeth says about you.” “I doubt it. She uses the word ‘pig-headed’,” Adam said with a smile, secretly pleased that Elizabeth was talking about him to her friends. It wasn’t much, but it was something. “Well, I’m glad you two are doing the shower together. It’s too much for Elizabeth to do on her own.” Adam knew Elizabeth would have a fit if she heard Marianne’s opinion. “I’m sure she would have preferred doing it with one of your friends.” “She might have,” Marianne conceded, “but it’s better that you’re doing it with her. She can’t take over all the jobs as easily when you’re around.” Adam made a face. “She’s trying.” Marianne chuckled. “And you won’t let her. That’s good. I knew you guys would work beautifully together.” “Now, I wouldn’t say that!” Adam said as he made his way to Elizabeth’s department. After being in the office building countless times, his motions were on autopilot as he thought about Elizabeth. Adam didn’t know exactly when it had happened or why, but Elizabeth was very careful around him. She tried to be cool and business-like, even during their arguments. He didn’t understand what had happened to the opinionated Elizabeth who passionately and loudly voiced her thoughts. The Elizabeth who could be sarcastic and blunt. Adam would get brief glimpses of that elusive woman, until she realized whom she was fighting with and drew back.

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Not that Elizabeth was boring this way. Elizabeth could never be boring, but her forceful personality wasn’t as strong. Her explosive actions were muted. It was like Elizabeth on a dimmer switch. Maybe it was because she had too much on her schedule these days. But, then, who didn’t? Adam thought. If anyone could handle a demanding job, apply for college, and organize wedding events, it would be Elizabeth Meier. Adam remembered when Elizabeth had received her acceptance letter from the community college. The joy on her face had been pure. She’d radiated with happiness. It had been at that moment when Adam had realized he felt something more than aching desire for Elizabeth. He wanted to share her joy with her. Before he even knew it, he’d taken her to his favorite sports bar and celebrated with beer and a dart game. He’d made sure they’d played the electronic dartboard since he didn’t trust Elizabeth with pointed metal objects. It was over a highly competitive dart game when Elizabeth voiced her insecurities about college. She truly did not think she was smart enough or capable enough to attend college. Her comments had been very casual, but Adam had sensed a fear of failure that was buried deep inside Elizabeth. Adam had tried to put her mind at ease, but maybe he’d made a complete mess out of it. After all, he was not really a pro when it came to heart-to-heart talks with women. It was quite possible that Elizabeth was embarrassed that she’d confided in him. She might pour out her soul to her friends, but he was a different matter. Maybe she just felt uncomfortable around him now since he’d had a peek of what went on inside her head. Too bad, Adam decided as he walked into the Fixed Income Department where Elizabeth worked. The moment he stepped across the threshold, he felt the urgency and adrenaline that permeated the area. Adam spotted Elizabeth immediately. She was bolting out of her cubicle with a sheaf of papers clutched in her hand. A clearly frazzled man stopped her. Adam couldn’t tell what was being said since the phones were ringing. He could hear three short buzzes, two long beeps, and other variations of a telephone ring. If Adam had to listen to this all day long, he would go quietly mad.

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The atmosphere had a different affect on Elizabeth. She was definitely in her element. Her eyes were lively and alert. The hectic workload seemed to feed rather than drain her. The bond trading she assisted obviously met her intellectual needs without over-taxing and stressing her. Adam glanced at her appearance. How it is that someone who practically burst with exuberance and vitality could wear such somber clothes? Her brown hair was controlled in a blunt cut. Her cream short-sleeve blouse and gray straight skirt whispered bank officer. Did Elizabeth think her quiet clothes would hide her vivacious nature? If so, she’d failed. Her clothing already emphasized her youthful, healthy body. Her gray heels only outlined the shapeliness of her strong legs. What her conservative clothes really did was make Adam wonder just how much control she had over her passionate side. Had he seen the full power of her personality, or had he only received a small sample of it? He would love to find the answer. In fact, he would make it a priority. Elizabeth turned suddenly and her sparkling eyes connected with Adam’s. For a moment her face lit up with delight. And quite possibly...pleasure? The way she looked at him made Adam forget that he wore dusty jeans, a well-worn T-shirt and a battered baseball cap. The way she looked at him made Adam feel like a GQ cover model. “Hey, Schmidt,” Elizabeth said as she walked toward him. “I’ll be right with you. I have to run these over before three o’clock. Why don’t you go sit at my desk?” He didn’t have a chance to reply as Elizabeth practically flew out of the room. Adam took up on Elizabeth’s invitation mainly to get a look at her desk. He needed more material to bug her with. He had a hunch it was as messy as the overnight case she called a purse. He could see he was right long before he got to her cubicle. As he said hello to other assistants, Adam spotted a jumble of blue paper and carbon copies crammed in the corners. By the time he got to the desk, he was prepared for the sight. He couldn’t see a speck of the metal desktop. Piles of papers littered the surface. Typed lists were stabbed into the fabric walls with pushpins. Yellow notes were stuck on the corners of her computer monitor and the monstrous-looking telephone. Adam shook his head. And she called herself organized. He sprawled his legs in front of him, accidentally kicking a pair of tennis shoes and the infamous purse.

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One of Elizabeth’s co-workers, Carolyn, peeked her head over the cubicle wall. “Hey, Adam. What brings you here?” “Elizabeth,” Adam said, the charming smile in place automatically. Carolyn was a regular at the sports bar he frequented. Although she was nice and played a mean game of pinball, Adam was a little put off by Carolyn’s attitude over his association with Elizabeth. She acted as if it was impossible for Adam to notice someone like Elizabeth. Which was absurd. How could someone not notice Elizabeth? Okay, true, he’d never tried a pick-up line on someone like her, but then there were no women like the princess. If Carolyn actually thought the whole relationship through, she should be wondering why Elizabeth would notice him. Elizabeth was a determined young woman who was going places. He was a guy who pushed a lawnmower for a living. Women like Elizabeth don’t stop on the road of success for guys like him. “You’re coming to Mick’s later?” Carolyn asked. “There’s a live band lined up tonight.” “I don’t think we’ll make it,” Adam said, and then realized he’d spoken as if he and Elizabeth were a couple or something. He should be freaking out from the slip, but for some strange reason he wasn’t. Not freaking out should be freaking him out, if anything. Carolyn obviously heard the plural refusal. “Oh, where are you taking her?” “Camping,” Elizabeth said as she rushed back into the office. She immediately went into her cubicle and ducked under her desk to grab her tennis shoes. Her shoulder brushed against Adam’s calf, causing an electric charge to shoot up his leg. There was something very suggestive about their position. Adam quickly moved his leg. Adam had forgotten all about Carolyn until she said, “Camping? You have to take off two hours early because you’re going camping?” “Yes,” Elizabeth said as she shucked off her high heels and pulled her white socks over her nylon-clad feet. Her pencil-slim skirt slightly rose up her leg from the swift actions. Adam had no clue why watching Elizabeth put on socks would seem like an intimate act, but the desire pooling in his groin was making him ache. He shifted a little in the office chair, wondering why he’d never considered himself a leg man. He was definitely reconsidering. Adam didn’t think he had the willpower to continue watching without touching. He turned to face Carolyn. He wasn’t sure what his expression revealed, but Carolyn’s eyebrows shot up sky high before saying in a prudish tone, “I see.”

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His desirous thoughts evaporated when he realized what Carolyn thought. Did she really think Elizabeth was the kind of girl who would take off work to spend an afternoon making love? Not that the idea hadn’t made his wish list in the past five seconds, but he didn’t want people to think Elizabeth was loose and easy. Adam was about to set Carolyn straight, when Elizabeth caught his eye and shook her head. Don’t bother, Elizabeth mouthed. Why shouldn’t he bother? Adam wanted to know. He never got to voice his question as Elizabeth scooted off the desk and said, “I need to tell my supervisor I’m leaving.” Elizabeth dashed over to the older woman, dragging her purse along. She was back at his side while he was saying good-bye to Carolyn. “See you Monday,” Elizabeth said to Carolyn and the other assistant as she left the department in her usual energetic stride. “You seem to be in a good mood,” Adam drawled as he watched Elizabeth walk in front of him. A secret smile played on his mouth as he watched her bottom sway. “You bet,” Elizabeth said as she walked over to the elevator and pressed the down button. She turned toward Adam and flashed him a brilliant smile. Adam stared at her, bedazzled. Elizabeth was intensely beautiful. Her eyes sparkled with energy. She radiated with life. Adam could feel the vitality crackling around her. He was spellbound by her forceful personality. “W-why?” he managed to ask in a hoarse, raspy voice. “There’s a possibility that I may get a job promotion,” Elizabeth announced with barely suppressed excitement. Adam felt his heart pumping as he watched her. “Really?” “Yep.” Elizabeth stabbed the down button again. “You know Lara, the senior administrative assistant?” “The pregnant one?” Adam asked, not able to hear clearly over the pounding of his heart. Liquid fire flowed through his body as he watched Elizabeth, fascinated. Why was he getting so hot over her when she wasn’t doing anything sexually suggestive? “Yeah. Well, she just decided that she’s not going to come back after her maternity leave. In fact, she’s quitting in two weeks. So, I’m up for the job.” “Cool.” One word was all he could manage. Half his brain had taken a vacation. The other half was wondering how he could harness all of her vivacity and direct it solely onto him. He didn’t know if he could control its unbelievable power, but he wouldn’t mind finding out.

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“And I am going to get it,” Elizabeth said as she pushed the down button again. “I just know it. Come on, let’s take the stairs.” It took a few moments for Adam to realize she was moving toward the stairwell, his mind still on a leave of absence. He quickly followed her. “How do you know?” he asked as she opened the heavy metal door. “Because I have been in the department longer than Carolyn,” Elizabeth said, her clear voice echoing in the dimly lit stairwell. “I also have a better attendance record.” She looked over her shoulder. “I’m also better at my job than she is,” she replied with a confident smile. It was her confidence that did it. He had no idea that a self-assured and assertive woman was so sexy. So exciting. Her positive strength was alluring. Adam simply had to taste the passion in her. He moved quietly but with speed, capturing Elizabeth’s wrist. He stepped down on the landing next to her as she turned to question him. He didn’t give her a chance as he pulled her towards him in one smooth glide. Adam leaned against the cold concrete wall and tugged Elizabeth until she was flushed against him, his legs surrounding hers. He swiftly lowered his head and kissed her with raw lust. Later he would lecture himself about finesse and technique. He’d remember about seduction and pacing afterwards. Adam forgot all those things the moment Elizabeth tumbled into his arms. He focused on Elizabeth’s full lips and his raging hunger. Kissing Elizabeth was like playing with fire. One hot kiss and Adam was burning with need. He deepened the kiss, his mouth urgent. The fiery desire inside him burned brighter. Just one more kiss, he promised himself. One more and I’ll pull away. Adam was unprepared when Elizabeth darted her tongue and dragged it across his bottom lip. His mouth felt scorched from the intimate caress. Elizabeth’s tongue brazenly delved into his mouth. Adam’s body clenched, ready to erupt. He knew he was going to explode when she leaned in closer, thrusting her hands into his hair. Adam barely noticed his baseball cap falling down, or her heavy purse landing on his foot. He wasn’t aware of their raspy gasps of breath echoing in the darkened interior. He couldn’t remember where he was. He didn’t even know if he was standing. All he noticed, all he cared about, was Elizabeth’s responsiveness. It was better than he expected, greater than he’d dreamed. He opened his mouth even wider, accepting Elizabeth’s

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bold invasion, capturing her tongue and sucking it hard. She shuddered from the touch. He gathered Elizabeth closer to him, his hands roughly kneading her back and sliding down to her hips. Elizabeth sensuously rocked her hips against his pelvis, searching for a way to alleviate the building need that trembled through her body. Adam could feel the need raging in her like an inferno. She practically vibrated with it. He knew exactly how she was feeling. Adam roughly clamped his large hands onto her hips, grounding his hardening sex against her soft abdomen. Elizabeth gasped with pleasure, the erotic sound demolishing any willpower he may have possessed. Adam took the opportunity to thrust his tongue into her mouth, claiming it. He needed to get closer. He kissed her deeply with voracious hunger, but it wasn’t enough. Elizabeth must have felt the same way as she rubbed her breasts against his chest. Even through his T-shirt and her blouse, Adam could feel her nipples pucker and harden with desire. He needed to taste all of her. He twisted suddenly, plastering Elizabeth’s back against the wall while he shrouded her with his body. He grabbed a fistful of her linen skirt and bunched it in his hands. Elizabeth made use of the newfound freedom and inched her legs upward. Just the idea of her legs curling around his waist made his temperature soar. BANG! The loud noise was as unexpected as a gunshot, the sound ricocheting against the concrete walls. Adam jumped, his head snapping back. Elizabeth did the same, her head knocking against the hard wall. Adam slowly disentangled himself as he realized the noise was from a door. Someone was coming down the steps and he had to break away from Elizabeth before.... Adam’s brain was bombed out from Elizabeth’s kisses, his dragging movements slow and reluctant. He turned to see who rudely interrupted them and saw Carolyn marching down the steps, her nose tilted to the ceiling. “Can’t that wait ‘til you leave the building?” she asked, her voice dripping with disapproval as she eyed them. Adam couldn’t think of any comeback that would firmly put Carolyn in her place. Instead, he shook his head. “No,” he said in a husky, kiss-roughened voice.

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His simple statement seemed to give Carolyn more of an attitude as she huffily stomped away. She continued to clomp down the steps, making a loud noise with every movement. Adam turned to Elizabeth. “Sorry about that,” he whispered in apology. He slowly stepped away from her, his body protesting the withdrawal. Elizabeth still slumped against the wall. Adam watched her face for any reaction. Her brown hair was mussed. He couldn’t even recall raking his hands through it. Elizabeth’s dazed eyes were fuzzy with desire. He stared intently into her brown eyes and she immediately lowered her lashes. He noticed her flushed skin and the abrasions his rough jaw had left behind. With the pad of his thumb, he softly brushed her reddened chin. Elizabeth jumped from the gentle touch, her pink tongue flicking nervously over her swollen lips. “Why’d you kiss me?” she asked in a low voice, not looking at him as she crouched down and grabbed her huge purse. Adam paused, not sure how to answer. If he told her he wanted just a taste of her, she would definitely get offended and might swing her purse into his jaw. With good reason. No matter how selfish his reason was to kiss her, it had changed subtly during their hot embrace. He may have kissed her out of curiosity, but he continued kissing her because he couldn’t stop. Their kiss was dynamite, and he hadn’t felt that way over a kiss for quite some time. Come to think of it, when had he ever burned so hot over a kiss? That was definitely something he didn’t feel like dwelling on, nor was it something he wanted Elizabeth to know. Instead, he answered, “To congratulate you.” He reached down for his baseball cap and placed it firmly on his head. “Congratulate me?” Elizabeth stared at him. “For your possible promotion,” Adam said. “Remember?” he asked in a teasing tone as he fiddled with the cap. “Uh-huh,” Elizabeth said as she started walking down the steps. “God help me when I actually do get the promotion.” Adam couldn’t prevent smiling at the thought.

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Chapter Five God help me when I actually do get the promotion? Elizabeth was still cringing over that remark. It had only been an hour since the words came tumbling out of her mouth. She wanted to kick herself then, and waited for Adam’s zinger reply. She knew she’d really set herself up for some chauvinistic comeback. Elizabeth was enormously relieved when none came. She then made sure he wasn’t going to get the opportunity to make any comment. Elizabeth immediately launched into their list of things to do for the shower. She didn’t know if Adam was even listening to her, but at that point she really didn’t care. She felt slightly uncomfortable when they stopped at her apartment so she could change into shorts and a T-shirt. The situation felt too sensitive to her frazzled nerves. Fortunately, he made use of the time by loading up his truck with the boxes of party things. They were now driving to her parents’ house to pick up a few camping supplies before heading out to the campground. The idea of him meeting her mother and stepfather was traumatic an hour ago. It was no longer her biggest concern. Elizabeth stopped pretending to read her lists and covertly slid a glance at Adam. He didn’t seem troubled at all, whistling enthusiastically to a fast-paced country tune on the radio. Elizabeth smothered a sigh. It was probably an everyday occurrence to him, having a woman jump him and kiss him with every fiber of her being. She wished she could act so unconcerned about the kiss. She hoped she was doing a fair impression of forgetting the whole incidence. God help me... Elizabeth closed her eyes in defense of that embarrassing reply. What was she thinking when she’d uttered those stupid words? That was the problem. She hadn’t been thinking. She had been too busy coping with the aftershocks of that blistering kiss. She shouldn’t be held responsible for anything she’d said. Elizabeth wished she could explain that to Adam, but that would make it seem that his kiss had an unbelievable control over her senses. Which it did, but she wasn’t about to give him that piece of information. He’d probably already figured that out from her energetic response anyway.

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Her face flushed scarlet from the memory. She didn’t know what had made her become so aggressive. She had never reacted that way to any man’s kiss. The moment she felt the thrill of his touch coursing through her veins, she’d immediately launched into him. How humiliating. What was supposed to be a congratulatory kiss, which was probably a cover for an obligatory pass, she turned into a make-out Olympics. Especially when she started curling her legs around him, wanting to wrap them around his waist. Elizabeth could feel the heat shimmering from her face as she remembered her passionate response to Adam’s touch. She reached over to the air vent of the truck and positioned the stream of air-conditioning to hit her face full force. Her pushy behavior in the stairwell wasn’t the worst of it. The way she’d reacted when he’d invaded her mouth with his tongue was truly awful. She’d become all submissive. Elizabeth couldn’t believe she had just clung to him and enjoyed every moment. Now Adam would know that in order to make her compliant and meek, he just needed to kiss and stroke her. Okay, calm down, Elizabeth lectured herself. It was just a kiss. The phrase instantly became her mantra. It was just a kiss. It was just a kiss. Elizabeth looked out the window and saw Adam turning onto the street where her parents lived. “It’s the white colonial-style,” she said softly. She wasn’t sure if Adam had heard her, as he now quietly crooned with a slow, sultry ballad. Elizabeth noticed he had a good singing voice. It was husky, low, and seductive. She looked up. “Oh, no!” she groaned, scrunching her face as Adam turned the truck into the driveway. “What?” Adam asked. “Trevor’s here.” “Who is Trevor?” Adam asked in a gruff tone. “My stepbrother,” she answered, rubbing her temple to ward off the impending stress headache. “You don’t sound thrilled,” Adam commented as he parked. “I’m not.” Realizing she was mentioning her disloyal opinions about her family, Elizabeth clamped her mouth shut and shoved her notebook into her purse. She hopped out of the truck and walked along the path to the front door with Adam.

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She rang the doorbell and ignored Adam’s questioning gaze. Her mother answered the door. “Hi, Mom. This is Adam Schmidt, who’s helping me with Marianne’s shower. Adam, this is my mother, Judith Lotz.” Adam smiled at her mother as he shook her hand. “Hello, Mrs. Lotz. Thank you so much for helping us out.” Elizabeth watched as Adam’s charm delighted her mother. Her mother glanced at Elizabeth with a look. “Hang on to this one,” was the silent message. Elizabeth chomped down on her tongue before she said what was on her mind. “Well, come in, come in,” Judith said as she ushered them in. “I’m sorry the place is a mess, but I just got off work.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. Her mother’s house was always clean and tidy. If anything, Adam was probably in shock after coming from her apartment where the furniture consisted of a couple of lawn chairs and a picnic table. “Elizabeth’s here,” her mother said as Elizabeth stepped inside the house, Adam right behind her. Elizabeth tensed as she saw her stepfather relaxing on an easy chair while her stepbrother was sprawled on the sofa nearby. They were both unshaven and unkempt, the ashtray on the coffee table overflowing. It could be worse, Elizabeth decided. At least they were fully dressed and not lounging in their underwear. Both were watching TV, immersed in the scores displayed on the sports channel. Obviously her mother’s announcement paled in comparison to baseball statistics, Elizabeth noted with a wry smile. It didn’t matter that she hadn’t stepped foot in the house for over a month. “With a guest,” her mother added, a warning tone creeping into her voice. Both men glanced up and saw Adam towering over Elizabeth. “This is Adam Schmidt. Adam, this is my husband Roger Lotz and his son, Trevor.” Adam went over to shake hands when Roger asked, “Hey, are you related to Schmidt Lawn Care Services?” “Yes, I own it,” Adam replied. “Well.” Roger sat a little straighter in his chair. “Good thing you came over. I want to talk a little business with you. I’m too busy to bother with my lawn and want to see what you can offer me.”

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Elizabeth shot a disbelieving look at her stepfather. Too busy to mow the lawn? Too busy doing what? The man didn’t have a job and watched TV all day while her mother worked as a poorly paid typist. Elizabeth could feel the old anger rising inside her and she ducked her head before she mouthed off. Look at the positive, Elizabeth told herself, biting her lip. If he does hire Adam’s business, that meant one less chore her mother had to do. “That can wait, Roger,” her mother said. “Adam’s here to pick up a few things for Marianne’s shower.” “Well, you gals can do that while we men talk business,” Roger decided as he motioned for Adam to sit down. Elizabeth looked at Adam and saw the cautious expression on his face. The guy looked like he was stuck in the middle of a minefield, not wanting to offend a potential client, but not wanting to dump the workload on her. “Go ahead. I’ll be fine,” Elizabeth said. “You can help me after your talk.” “Ha!” Trevor said from the sofa. “You can be sure that Elizabeth will work slowly so you’ll be stuck with the heavy stuff.” “This from a guy who never lifted anything heavier than a remote control,” Elizabeth replied coolly as she walked out of the room and into the kitchen. The room held the aroma of a four square meal. Elizabeth inhaled the spicy aroma of the dinner, reminding her how much she missed her mother’s cooking. Elizabeth heard her mother offer a drink to Adam, who politely refused. Her mother immediately walked into the kitchen, tapping her daughter’s hand as Elizabeth peeked into a boiling pot on the stove. “Where did you meet him?” she whispered excitedly, her eyes lit with motherly happiness. “He’s Marianne’s future brother-in-law. Don’t get your hopes up, okay?” “Why not? I’m sure he’ll ask you out on a date if you showed a little interest. Just flirt a little bit. But not too much. A man doesn’t buy the cow when he gets the milk for free,” her mother warned. “I really hate that saying, Mom,” Elizabeth said.

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“Elizabeth Ann, what are you wearing?” Judith inspected her casual attire. “He’s not going to ask you out when you wear a dingy T-shirt and cut-off jeans. Haven’t I taught you anything?” Her mother sighed heavily. “Well, at least you shaved your legs.” “Mom!” Elizabeth squawked. She took a deep breath. “Will you show me where you have the camping gear?” “Sure. Let me help you.” “No need. I can tell you’re in the middle of cooking dinner.” With a minimum of direction, Elizabeth set off to the closed porch where the equipment was stored. She decided to take the long route, carrying the camping gear out the back door, around the house and to Adam’s truck. She didn’t mind the extra steps if that meant avoiding her stepfather and Trevor. Anyway, she didn’t want Adam to feel guiltier for not loading the truck. By the time she got all the equipment loaded, Elizabeth didn’t feel as gracious. Instead, she felt hot and sticky. She needed a glass of Mom’s perfectly brewed iced tea. Elizabeth walked into the kitchen and quickly got out of her mother’s way as Judith bustled around preparing dinner. “Smells good, Mom,” Elizabeth said as she opened the refrigerator door, dodging her mother carrying a bowl of vegetables. “This? It’s nothing special. Just tuna casserole, Italian green beans, raspberry salad and chocolate cream pie.” “Just?” Elizabeth smiled, thinking that a complete meal to her was a sandwich. “Judith!” Roger bellowed from the living room, causing Elizabeth to jump and skid on the waxed floor. “Get me a beer!” “Me too!” Trevor yelled, his voice less booming, but made up for it with insolence. Elizabeth did her best to swallow the bitterness that mushroomed inside her. If any man talked to her in that way.... The harsh bitterness collapsed into dull, festering anger as Elizabeth watched her mother scurry to the refrigerator and grabbed two ice-cold cans of beer. “I’ll take it in,” Elizabeth said quietly, her own thirst evaporating. Her mother looked at her with a mixture of shock. “You don’t mind?” “No.” She took the beer cans. “I don’t mind at all.”

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Elizabeth calmly walked into the living room carrying a can of beer in each hand. The men hadn’t moved an inch from their seats. Adam sat facing Roger and Trevor, his face showing no expression as her stepfather talked. “Woman, what’s taking you so long?” Roger shouted. “Sorry,” Elizabeth answered, her voice edged with defiance. Adam looked up with an apologetic glance. His eyes sharpened when he watched with amused horror as Elizabeth walked toward her relatives, vigorously shaking the beer cans. “I can send you my brochure and you can look it over,” Adam said. He immediately stood, knowing it was a good time to leave before all hell broke loose. Elizabeth decided he was a smart man. “We should be going,” he said to Elizabeth. “Definitely,” she agreed as she handed the men their beer. “Mom, we’re going,” she called. Her mother hurried out of the kitchen. “So soon?” “Yeah. I’ll try to bring the stuff back next week, but I’ll be starting college, so I’ll see what I can do.” “College,” Trevor snickered. Elizabeth purposefully ignored him and walked to the door. Adam followed close behind her. “Are you still on that kick?” Roger asked as he grounded out a cigarette butt. “Now, honey,” Judith said to her husband, but her tone clearly indicated that she didn’t like hearing about Elizabeth’s college plans either. “Something tells me she’ll drop out once she realizes she’s in over her head,” Trevor sneered. Elizabeth opened the door and looked at her stepbrother. “Something tells me I’ll get my college degree way before you do.” The seemingly innocent bragging made its mark on Trevor, his lackluster eyes suddenly darting with venom. “Bye,” she said sweetly and walked outside. Adam closed the door behind them as they stepped onto the front porch. Elizabeth stopped walking and listened intently. “One...two...three...” she whispered. “What the—” Trevor yelled while Roger spluttered out a string of obscenities. “Elizabeth, you—” Trevor roared. “Run for it,” Elizabeth said and dashed to the truck.

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***** “I’m hungry,” Adam announced. “Are you hungry?” Adam waited for a moment, but Elizabeth didn’t reply. He looked over and saw her smoothing out a paper tablecloth on a folding table. She had been unusually quiet since they’d left her parents’ house six hours ago. Elizabeth had been a tornado of activity ever since, systematically going through her lists. They arrived at the campground lodge and found it filthy. While Adam groused over the conditions, Elizabeth quietly went into the kitchen and found cleaning supplies. She immediately stormed into action. It took all of Adam’s energy to keep up with her. Now the lodge was clean and set for the big party tomorrow. Most of the food was prepared and marinating in the refrigerator. Elizabeth was still putting the final touches on the decorations. Silently. Adam was deep in thought as he watched Elizabeth twist crepe paper on the edge of the table. Adam was identifying an unusual pattern about Elizabeth. She had been quiet after he kissed her. Actually, after she kissed him, Adam decided with a smile, but that was beside the point. After the kiss, Elizabeth had busily worked in a quiet, subdued manner. Right now, she was working herself at a demonic pace. Elizabeth silently radiated with anger. Obviously, if something bothered her or if she didn’t want to dwell on it, Elizabeth would avoid thinking about it and kept busy. He had made a few attempts to calm her down, but all were brushed aside as she found a new cleaning job to do. If Adam were wise, he would just leave her bitter mood alone. He never considered himself a good listener. He didn’t read the advice columns or listen to the psychologists on the radio. He always kept conversation light when he was around women, mainly because he was clueless on how their minds worked. So why was he even considering listening to Elizabeth, provoking her to bare her soul? Because it was Elizabeth, he told himself. With that in mind, Adam briskly put away the supplies and walked over to Elizabeth. “Let’s go,” he said in a tone that refused any disagreement. “Just one more thing,” Elizabeth said. “No, I’m hungry, and I know you must be hungry. What sounds good to you?” “I’m really not hungry—”

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“Yes, you are,” Adam said and steered Elizabeth to the door. “Nearly everything is ready. We can come here early tomorrow to do the rest.” Elizabeth sighed gustily and Adam assumed she was giving in. He locked up the lodge and bundled her into the truck before she could change her mind. They were driving down the highway before Adam attempted to draw her out of her silence. “You’ve been quiet today. Not that I’m complaining,” Adam said with a smile. “Been a busy day,” Elizabeth said, looking out the window. Adam tried another tactic. “It was nice of your mom to loan the camping supplies.” He saw Elizabeth nod her head. “Your mom reminds me a lot of my mom.” “Really? Does she work an eight-hour day and then comes home and work another eighthours while her husband treats her like a slave?” Elizabeth quickly bit her lip. “Uh—” Even though Adam was trying to get a response out of Elizabeth, he was unprepared for the festering anger that suffused her voice. “No. My mom made sure everyone in the house did their part of the work. I can cook and clean and run errands with the best of them.” “Your mom trained you right,” Elizabeth said, and lapsed into silence. Adam racked his brain for another conversation opener. This communication stuff was tough, he thought. “Your family didn’t seem too thrilled about you going to college,” he said, and almost faltered into silence when he felt the tension humming through her. He bravely pushed on. “If I went to college, my family would be thrilled.” “That’s because you’re a man,” she replied simply. Adam rolled his eyes. That’s it, he decided. If she wanted to talk about it, she would. He was not going to beat his head against a brick wall any longer. He pulled off the highway and onto the busy commercial road. “Okay, princess, you decide. Where do we eat?” “Do you know why I hate being called ‘princess’?” Elizabeth turned abruptly toward him, her brown eyes flashing. “Uh, no. You never did say,” Adam replied, quickly making an executive decision and pulling into the parking lot of the nearest restaurant. “Because what is a princess? Just a hyped up job description,” Elizabeth said. “Why does any girl dream about being one? I mean, think about it. She’s either the daughter of a king or queen, or she’s the wife of a prince.” Adam listened as he looked for a parking space. “And...that’s bad?”

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Elizabeth groaned. “Well, yeah. You wouldn’t be an individual, but part of a...family unit. Your whole existence is based on expanding the family tree. “I would hate it,” Elizabeth continued, unable to stop, “if all I was allowed to do was get married and have children. I think I have a lot more to offer to this world—to myself—than that. I wish my mom would think that way.” “You mean she thinks all she can do is be a wife and mother?” Adam asked as he parked next to the restaurant. “Yeah,” Elizabeth’s voice sounded flat. “She is an intelligent woman, but she thinks she needs a man to ‘take care’ of her. When will she know that she has more strength than her two husbands combined? When is she going to realize that she was the one doing all of the ‘taking care’ in the marriage? Is she ever going to know she has the luxury to choose a different life? A better life for herself?” Adam turned off the truck and looked at Elizabeth. “Maybe she likes her life.” Elizabeth shot Adam a look of disbelief. “How could she? Did you see what she has to live with?” Adam gave a slight nod. “Just a part. A small part. Not enough to pass judgment.” “Well, I’ve seen enough when my dad was alive. And I saw the pattern emerging again when she dated Roger. Once she decided she was going to marry him, I moved out. And I’m glad I did. And do you know what really surprises me?” “What?” Adam asked as he and Elizabeth got out of the truck. “That my mom wants me to get married and have children. She wants me to have the same kind of life she has.” Elizabeth shuddered at the thought. “Maybe she thinks you’ll do better,” Adam said as he opened the door for Elizabeth. He smiled when she passed through without comment of his gentlemanly behavior. “But what I don’t understand is why she’s against you going to college. I thought every parent wanted their kid to go to college.” “The only reason my mom would want me to go to college is so I could find a college educated husband,” Elizabeth explained as they seated themselves in a booth. “She thinks that continuing my education will only prolong my single status.” “Well, why is she against you getting an education, but it’s okay for Trevor to get one?” Adam asked. The moment he said those words, he realized he’d asked the wrong question.

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Elizabeth’s whole demeanor changed. A coldly furious Elizabeth froze out the confiding, talkative woman. Her eyes glittered like ice. She folded her arms across her chest. As she explained, her tone was as sharp as icicles. “Trevor is a man, therefore it is his ‘right’ to get an education. Not only does my mother give him morale support, but she also helps him with his homework and term papers! She and Roger pay Trevor’s tuition and expenses, and they bought him a new car so he can get around campus. “What makes me angry about this is that Trevor has been in college for almost seven years and has no degree to show for it. He keeps changing his major, dropping out or failing courses. “I, on the other hand, can expect nothing from my mom. She made it perfectly clear that she is against my decision to go back to school. I don’t want her money or her help. I would like some show of support. A ‘good for you’ would mean a great deal to me. But that’s not going to happen.” Adam picked up the menus and gave one to Elizabeth as he digested her heated explanation. “So, let me get this straight. You’re receiving very little financial support for college. You aren’t getting any encouragement from your family or friends. Your workplace isn’t going to give you any leeway as you try to get a degree. You have very little free time, but yet you plan to use all of it going to school and studying. Can I ask you a question? Why do you want to go to college?” “You know, I’ve been wondering about that,” Elizabeth confessed. “I lay awake at night and think I’m setting myself up for a big disappointment. But I’m going to go through with my plans because I want to give myself as many chances as I can get in life. If I get a degree, I can have my pick of careers. I won’t get stuck in a dead-end job because I don’t have marketable skills. I want to be able to earn a living, not scrape by. I want to be able to depend on myself and not rely on others. Getting a degree will be one way of achieving all that.” Elizabeth broke off as the waitress came by to get their orders. Adam studied Elizabeth as she spoke to the waitress. Well, what do you know, he thought. The fiery feminist isn’t a man-hater after all. She had every right to be, considering her family life. Adam believed Elizabeth possessed more strength that anyone realized. She left an oppressive home life with very little but her spirit intact.

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Elizabeth reminded him of a flowering bush in his parents’ side yard. It was always a part of his yard work to prune back the bush. Yet, no matter how much Adam pruned, clipped or doused it with chemicals, the bush bloomed brighter and stronger. Elizabeth was just like that damn shrub. No matter what was thrown at her, no matter how little support she received, she quietly grew into a strong woman. Adam admired her all the more because of her graceful struggle to overcome her obstacles. Elizabeth was a powerful young woman, determined to make a better life without any help. She was going to provide herself with all the choices and opportunities she needed to create a better life. Adam couldn’t help but be awestruck. “Adam, don’t you want to order?” Elizabeth asked, breaking into his thoughts. Adam absentmindedly ordered his dinner, thinking that Elizabeth was wrong about one thing. She still had a princess quality about her. She handled herself with a grace and dignity few possessed. She had a warrior spirit, and probably could slay any dragons on her own. She also had the intelligence of a wizard, and would take the business world by storm. Most troubling, however, was her ability to weave a spell like any great sorceress. Adam didn’t realize until now that Elizabeth Meier was the most spellbinding, mesmerizing woman he’d ever met. “Why are you staring at me?” Elizabeth asked brusquely. She was clearly uncomfortable as she crumpled a paper napkin. Her brown eyes darted around the table, her cheeks slightly pink. Was she regretting confiding in him? Adam wondered. Probably. She might think he was a shallow party animal who’d tease her about what she’d said. Or worse, brush them aside. Adam wanted to prove himself worthy of her confidence. “I think you’ll do well in college,” Adam said, watching Elizabeth’s face as she struggled with the genuine statement. “I don’t think you’ll have an easy time with it, but I know you can do it. That is, once you get organized.” Elizabeth made a face. “I am very organized.” Adam shook his head. “Believe me, princess, you’re not.” “Why are you calling me ‘princess’ when I just told you how much I hate it?” Elizabeth asked, her eyes narrowing. “Because I have a different definition of ‘princess’,” Adam explained, “and it suits you.” He smiled as she struggled with her growing annoyance.

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“I know you’re setting me up for one humdinger of a one-liner, and I won’t fall for it. I don’t want to know your definition,” she insisted. “It’s not that—” “Nope,” Elizabeth said, covering her ears. “I can’t hear you.” Adam leaned his elbows on the table and rested his chin in the palm of his hand. He watched Elizabeth fondly. All right, he decided. He wouldn’t tell Elizabeth his definition. He’d save that for later. When the time was right, he’d let her know that his princess was someone who could easily be admired and emulated. Someone who showed strength and softness. Kindness and courage. Grace and spirit. Someone who possessed an unshakable code of honor and followed it. That was his idea of his princess. With the emphasis on his.

Chapter Six “Just leave,” Elizabeth ordered. Adam pulled the phone from his ear. “What?” “You’ve been on your cell phone more than you’ve been off.” “I’m just handling a problem at the office,” Adam said, placing his hand on the mouthpiece. “I’ll be off in two minutes. Three max.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Why don’t you just go to the office, do what you have to do, and come back?” “I can’t leave! We’re in the middle of a party.” He looked around the campground. Most of the guests were playing beach volleyball. Some were racing rowboats on the shallow manmade lake. Only a few swam to escape the melting sun. “Schmidt, you’re too busy concentrating on work. Even after you deal with whatever problem, you’ll be worrying all day about it. Just go to the office and come back.” The idea was tempting. “I can’t just leave you alone.” Elizabeth raised an eyebrow. “Why not?”

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“Because we’re co-hosting this thing.” “So what? Go now and be back before we start barbecuing.” “What if there’s a problem?” “Oh, I don’t know...maybe I could take care of it?” Adam hesitated. “I don’t know...” Elizabeth glared at him. “Do you think you can handle it?” “For a couple of hours? It might be stretching my capabilities,” Elizabeth said sarcastically, “but I’m up for the challenge.” Adam smiled. “Okay. Let me finish this call.” He tried to concentrate on what his office assistant was saying as Jackie walked up to them. “Hey, Elizabeth!” Jackie said in a loud voice that drowned out his assistant’s voice. “Need any help?” “No, everything is running smoothly. But thanks.” Adam smiled ruefully. It was just like Elizabeth not to accept help. If she were hanging off a cliff she would refuse a helping hand. “This party is a blast!” Adam heard Jackie announce. “Beats any frilly bridal shower I’ve been to.” Adam caught a glimpse of Elizabeth’s neutral expression. “I’ll be sure to tell Adam you said that. It was his idea.” “Oh, please, take some of the credit!” Jackie groaned as she walked toward the lake. “I can see your handiwork in all this. You guys make a good team.” Jackie waggled her eyebrows for added effect. Adam privately agreed with Jackie. He and Elizabeth complemented each other’s strengths and interests. Adam could care less about confirming with vendors and guests, but she was practically obsessed with the chore. Elizabeth, on the other hand, didn’t like to brainstorm ideas. Because of Adam’s ability to ‘look outside the box’, they were hosting a memorable party. Yep, Adam decided as he completed his business call, they did make a good team…when they weren’t wrestling for control. “Walk me to my truck,” Adam said to Elizabeth after he turned off his phone. “Why? Afraid a squirrel’s going to attack you?”

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Adam’s smile grew wider. “No, princess.” He grabbed her arm and let his hand slide down to her wrist. Adam could feel her resist. He pulled slightly and she pulled back. Adam wondered if he was going to be dragging her to his truck when she reluctantly gave up the battle and walked with him. “Stop calling me ‘princess’,” she grumbled. Adam swallowed a chuckle. Elizabeth had been grouchy and irritable all day. He’d ignored it until he’d realized the charming hostess was giving him the bad treatment exclusively. Maybe he should be offended, or at least annoyed. Instead he felt hopeful. Elizabeth was obviously drawing back from him. She was uncomfortable about last night. She showed too much of herself. She kissed him. A white-hot kiss that made him crave for more. Adam stole a glance at Elizabeth, wondering when he could kiss her again. “So, why am I escorting you, Schmidt?” “If anyone asks, don’t tell them where I went.” Elizabeth made a face. “Why the secret, 007?” Adam shrugged uncomfortably. He didn’t really want to get into it. “Could it be that you don’t want people to know you actually work? Do you still feel the need to maintain your golden boy image?” Adam’s mouth dropped in surprise. “Huh?” “You know what I’m talking about. The image that everything comes easy to you, which is why you’ve been sneaking these phone calls.” “I didn’t know you were watching me.” Adam’s eyes twinkled with mischief. “Am I that fascinating? Did I give you an eyeful?” Elizabeth ignored him. “The image that your lawn business was born out of luck, not out of hard work, perseverance, and creativity.” Adam stopped by his truck and leaned on the hood. He was surprised. He had no idea Elizabeth was that perceptive. Maybe he’d revealed too much of himself during the party planning. He should deny everything Elizabeth said and maintain his image in front of her. Women liked and were attracted to powerful, successful men. Preferably men who didn’t work hard at it. But Adam liked the fact she knew how hard he worked. He enjoyed seeing her get riled up because no one else appreciated his efforts.

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Adam wouldn’t mind basking in her righteous indignation, but now was not the time. “Just don’t say where I’m at. Since the lawn care service is a family business, a lot of these guys work for me. They’re going to feel guilty for taking the day off if I went into work.” “Fine. What do I say if they ask?” Adam shrugged and opened the truck door. “Tell them I went to get beer.” “It took you over an hour to get beer? Can I say you got lost?” “No.” He stepped into the truck and shut the door. “See ya.” She stepped away from the truck. “I’ll get here as soon as I can.” “Take your time,” she replied sweetly. Her sweetness made him suspicious. “You better behave.” “Who, me?” “No shower games or prissy decorations while I’m gone.” She flashed him a don’t-tell-me-what-to-do look. “We’ll see.” “If I hear you’ve been up to your tricks, I’ll take you over my knee.” Elizabeth’s eyes blazed with indignation. “You’ll have to catch me first,” she challenged before flouncing off. Adam watched her strut away. The idea of catching her was intriguing. For the first time, he might enjoy the chase and the catch. ***** The blazing heat slowly burned to a simmer as dusk approached. The sun dipped past the horizon, leaving wisps of purple and pink sky. Elizabeth paused from cleaning the clutter on the veranda to watch the gorgeous sunset. The campground was now in shadow, hiding its natural glory. While Elizabeth couldn’t see the naturescape, she could smell the trees and loamy soil. She could feel the hot breeze drift across her skin. She could hear the crickets chirping. Elizabeth slapped her arm. She could also feel the bugs biting. With the exception of the bugs, the party turned out to be a great success. They were still celebrating. The guests were moving the festivities into the lodge, allowing Elizabeth to clean the area outside.

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Adam really knows how to throw a party, Elizabeth decided as she picked up the litter. She would have never thought of a campground as a wedding shower location. Of course, her attention to detail helped make the party a success. He was the idea man. She was the detail woman. Their partnership had been rocky at the start, but they had eventually made a good team. A good team? Elizabeth shook her head. What was she thinking? They weren’t a team. They weren’t even friends or adversaries. She and Adam were acquaintances who planned a wedding shower. Nothing more. So why did she want more? Elizabeth wasn’t sure what part she wanted Adam to play in her life, but she wanted him to be in it. This wanting was scary. As scary as when he returned from the office. When she saw Adam strolling towards her, Elizabeth found herself smiling. A quiet contentment seeped through her body. The party seemed more interesting, and she felt more alive because Adam was there. Her reaction was frightening and Elizabeth quickly removed herself to the lodge to prepare dinner. She didn’t want to analyze her feelings. She didn’t want those feelings and she certainly wasn’t going to act on them. But she had a good idea that those feelings weren’t solely based on attraction and sex. If it was just attraction, Elizabeth could confront it, maybe even accept it. What she was feeling was much more complicated. Elizabeth renewed her cleaning frenzy when she noticed a lone figure at the corner of the veranda. She looked over and saw it was her friend Leah, nursing a beer and staring into the growing darkness. Concern tweaked Elizabeth’s mind. It wasn’t like Leah to sit alone and contemplate. Elizabeth then recalled how her friend had acted during the wedding shower. Leah had participated, but held back. Something was definitely bothering her. She decided Leah probably was going through some wedding jitters herself. After all, she’ll be walking down the aisle next. Elizabeth set down her trash bag and approached her friend. “Mind if I join you?” Elizabeth asked quietly. Leah jerked her head around. “Come and sit down. You’ve been working too hard. I’m sorry. I should have helped.”

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Elizabeth waved away the offer. “You’re a guest. Anyway, if there’s a difficult or disgusting job, I’ll make Adam do it.” Leah gave a half-smile. “I’d like to see you make Adam do anything. You and he are very alike.” “Nuh-uh!” Elizabeth’s eyes widened at the thought. “Yes, you are. It’s been entertaining watching the two of you in the same room.” “I’ll be sure to sell tickets the next time that happens,” Elizabeth grumbled. “So, how’ve you been?” “The party’s a lot of fun. Really enjoying myself.” Elizabeth noticed the evasive answer. She tried a different tactic by asking about her fiancé. “I see Peter couldn’t come.” Leah paused, the beer bottle halfway to her mouth. She was quiet for a moment before she softly said, “Peter and I broke up two days ago.” Elizabeth was thankful she was seated, otherwise her legs would have collapsed. “What? Two days ago! And you’re just mentioning it now!” Leah cocked her head and looked away. Elizabeth was staggering from the announcement. Peter and Leah were the ideal couple. Their relationship was based on mutual respect, trust, and interests. If Peter and Leah couldn’t stay together, Elizabeth thought, then no one could. “I’m sorry to hear that,” Elizabeth finally said, dying to ask what happened. “Maybe the break up is just temporary. You know, Peter might be stepping back for a moment before he makes the big commitment.” Leah smiled sadly. “He said he wanted to see other people.” Which was a code phrase meaning he already was. “I’ll kill him,” Elizabeth said fiercely. “It’s okay,” Leah said, patting Elizabeth’s forearm. Elizabeth’s mouth fell open. “How can you say that? You’ve spent nearly ten years with the guy and now he’s calling it off? The least he could do was say something sooner!” “We’ve been struggling to stay together instead of calling it off,” Leah revealed. “I don’t understand.” Leah paused, collecting her thoughts. “Everyone knows that my only real dream is to have a strong family life.”

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Elizabeth nodded in agreement, knowing that Leah had no living relatives. “When Peter and I became seriously involved, I thought my dreams were going to come true. But first Peter wanted to finish college, then he wanted to find a job, then he wanted to get comfortable in his job. “And I waited. I started saving up for our future together. I planned what our wedding would be like. I have folders filled of information on how to buy a house. I even bought home decorations.” Elizabeth listened, feeling uncomfortable. It sounded as if Leah saw Peter as a means to achieving her dreams, not a part of her dream. “You still loved Peter, right?” “I...thought I did. I know I did in the beginning. But lately I wonder if I was with Peter out of habit rather than out of love.” Elizabeth miserably sank in her chair. The one long-term relationship she knew that seemed to be working turned out to be seriously flawed. Elizabeth felt like a little girl who had just been told there was no Santa Claus. She wanted to believe that a man and a woman could have a loving relationship that would last. She liked to believe that happy marriages do exist, even if she’d never seen one. Elizabeth realized she needed to believe. “Just these past few months,” Leah continued, “I was wondering if I would be with Peter if I hadn’t invested so many years into the relationship. I was beginning to think the answer was no when Peter decided to call the whole thing off. I mean, this break-up is killing me, but I know it’s for the best. For both of us.” “Of course it hurts,” Elizabeth murmured. “You’re suffering a loss. You’re grieving.” “I miss Peter. So much that I feel empty inside. And I get this feeling that I’ll always feel empty. I know that my dreams of having a family are over.” “Are you kidding me? You’re only twenty-five!” “Elizabeth, if the guy who had loved me for almost a decade doesn’t want to marry me...” “Then it’s his loss,” Elizabeth decided. “If he didn’t want to marry, he should have said something a long time ago. You know, you’re right. His dumping you was a good thing. You would have lost your dream otherwise.” “I lost my dream when Peter dumped me.”

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“No, think about it. You would have waited until he was ready. You already put such an emotional investment in the relationship. It would have been years before you gave up.” “I don’t know about that.” “And your dreams of family would slowly die. It would be too painful to keep dreaming of something that deep down you knew wasn’t going to happen.” Leah remained silent. “The same thing happened to my sister, Sara. She always wanted to travel. All kinds, from backpacking through Europe to going on a photo safari in Africa. Why I don’t know. Sounds awful to me, but that’s what she wanted. “She collected travel brochures and was planning on becoming a foreign exchange student. But then she got pregnant. Sara thought her dreams of travel were on hold for a while. After all, a baby was her first priority. Then she got married and my brother-in-law has no interest in travel. He thinks it’s a waste of time and money, so she doesn’t have any encouragement there. “Now Sara has had her third baby, and do you know what? She threw away all those travel brochures she’d collected. She knows her dreams of travel will never come true. Whenever she looked at those brochures, she felt more depressed. So she threw them away. I still remember the way she looked when she pitched them. I wanted to cry.” Leah was quiet for a moment. “So you’re saying I shouldn’t throw my clippings away? That I should hold on to my dream?” “Why should you give up? Peter kept avoiding a wedding and that kept you one step away from your dream. Had you stayed with him, there was no guarantee that you would have married and had kids. Now that Peter has left, you actually have a chance to realize your dream. To find someone and fall hopelessly in love. Someone who shares your dream.” “Elizabeth, I’m shocked. I thought you didn’t believe in love.” “I believe in love,” Elizabeth said quietly. “I just have trouble believing in marriage. In my family, marriages destroy love. And dreams. I told you about Sara, but my mom never even got a chance to dream. She just adopts her husbands’ goals.” “And you think marriage would prevent you from fulfilling your dream?” Leah asked. “To graduate from college?”

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Elizabeth shook her head. “College isn’t my dream. It’s a step toward my ultimate dream. I have scraps of paper filled with ideas, plans, and dreams. I stuffed them into this old school folder. That folder is bent-up like you wouldn’t believe. And do you know the sad part about it? The folder gets fuller and fuller. I haven’t completed one plan. I haven’t had the chance to pursue one of my ideas. There’s so much I want to do.” “What is you ultimate dream?” “I want freedom. I want choices and opportunities.” “And you can’t have that if you married?” “Not that I can see. Marriage would kill my dreams. It would limit my choices. It would chain me. I’ve never met a married woman who was truly free.” Elizabeth and Leah fell into a thoughtful silence. ***** Adam stood behind the screen door, deep in the shadows as he listened to Elizabeth talking to her friend. Now he understood Elizabeth. She was running scared. She thought that getting a degree and a better paying job would make her free. Yet she felt the need to be in total control, closed off to her emotions, and backed away from any person who got too close. She was determined not to lose her dream over anyone. Her dream to be free. How free was that? Sure, she would eventually be given a choice on how to live her life, but she wasn’t living. Adam watched as Elizabeth and Leah got up from their lawn chairs, wishing that Elizabeth didn’t have that kind of attitude. But didn’t he have that kind of attitude? Or was his worse? He wanted to remain single because he wanted to be free. Free of commitments, free to do what he wanted, when he wanted. How free was that? Maybe the question should be how shallow was that? No, Adam thought as he moved away from the shadows, he shouldn’t start questioning why he was so against marriage. Because something told him he didn’t have a very good reason.

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Chapter Seven It was close to midnight and the wedding shower was still going strong. People swarmed the lodge’s great room. The guests had been at the campground since early afternoon and everyone still felt the need to party. Elizabeth sat at a table away from the makeshift dance floor, watching couples gyrate to the music. Country rock blasted through the stereo system. Elizabeth could feel the catchy beat vibrate through the floor and pulsate into her feet. She glanced around the room. Ben and Marianne were on the dance floor, their bodies plastered together. Elizabeth looked around to see how Leah was doing. Fragments of a conversation caught her attention. “Hey, Adam, great party,” a male voice shouted over the throbbing music. “Thanks, but Elizabeth really did all the work.” Liar. Elizabeth looked over to where she heard Adam. Her eyes collided with his. He was about a foot taller than the small group of women who circled around him. Adam appeared comfortable in his surroundings. But she wasn’t feeling comfortable at all. Adam’s brown eyes held hers and she couldn’t break away. His gaze commanded her to look at him. Elizabeth hated any commands and she wished she could glare at him and move on. For some inexplicable reason, she couldn’t. She continued watching him as the other women lobbied for his attention. Only she had it. It gave her a heady sense of power. A power that made her pulse race and her stomach tighten. Elizabeth noticed for the hundredth time that Adam looked gorgeous. She fought the image of running her fingers through his wavy golden hair. She tried to shut out the memory of his clean, addictive scent and his warm, strong body. She couldn’t stop remembering his delicious mouth and how he lavished her with powerful, passionate kisses. Her eyes drifted to his mouth as she remembered, her heart fluttering. Her wet tongue flicked across her mouth and she dragged her teeth against the sensitive pink curves of her lips. Elizabeth froze when she realized what she did and whom she watched. She reluctantly focused her eyes upward, slamming into Adam’s hungry gaze. She gasped, not because he saw her reaction, but because he felt the same way.

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Her stomach flipped and crashed. She wanted to run. She wanted to brazenly walk to him. But she stayed seated. Holding his gaze. Elizabeth started feeling hot. She knew her face was flushed as Adam devoured her with his eyes. Adam said something to the women around him, still watching Elizabeth. He started walking towards her, and Elizabeth’s stomach lurched. Adam continued his journey, never taking his eyes off her face as he pushed his way through the crowd. Elizabeth watched him, her mind filtering the image in slow motion. Soft faded jeans emphasized his muscular legs. A crisp white T-shirt covered his flat, warm chest. Her mouth felt dry as she interpreted his serious, focused expression. She felt hunted. Suddenly he stood in front of her. Adam didn’t suggest or request anything. He simply took her hand, his large fingers folding over her small ones, pulling her up to a standing position. Elizabeth felt the heat emanating from his body. It matched her own. Her desire was on a slow heat, gaining fire. Adam seemed in control. She thought differently when she glimpsed at the telltale vein in his neck beating faster than the primitive rock rhythm drumming through the room. Maybe she wasn’t the prey after all. Or, at least, not the only one. The idea gave her the confidence she needed as she boldly looked into his eyes, revealing how she felt. Adam pulled her to the dance floor and Elizabeth willingly followed. She wanted to know where this might lead, this irresistible attraction. At the moment she wanted to indulge in this insane wickedness. Adam walked to the guest in charge of the music. He requested a song. Elizabeth couldn’t hear what Adam said, but she didn’t care. She’d dance to any song if it gave her the excuse to melt into Adam’s arms. Elizabeth’s desire was already simmering when he turned and placed one hand on her waist, the other cupping her hand. She moved to meld into his body, but his arms prevented her. Country music crooned through the stereo speakers. It was a sinfully sweet and simple love ballad. Adam led her around the dance floor in a two-step. They faced each other as they silently glided with smooth movements, their pace seductively slow. “I don’t two-step,” Elizabeth said as her feet fumbled slightly. She’d tried it a couple times, but didn’t consider herself proficient. She didn’t want to two-step anyway. She wanted to

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press her body against his. She wanted him to gather her into his arms. Have him hold her close and cradle her. “You’re doing fine. I’ll teach you anything you want to know,” he offered, surprising her with a turn. Elizabeth wondered if there was a double meaning to his words. They continued two-stepping, their intense gaze on each other. Elizabeth vaguely listened to the lyrics as the male voice sang about temptation. She knew all about temptation as it drizzled over her, swirling deep inside her body. Her desire was reaching the boiling point and Elizabeth craved to break away from the rigid dance steps. She was ready to pull Adam off the dance floor and drag him outside. There she would luxuriate in his touch and celebrate the difference of their bodies. Adam’s eyes darkened in response to Elizabeth’s obvious thoughts. He smiled at her knowingly while he maneuvered her around the floor. Elizabeth was beginning to feel maneuvered in more ways than one. She understood his choice of music and dance. Adam wanted to tease her senses, tease her before he made his move. Adam was in for a big surprise if he thought he would be in control. She continued dancing with him, allowing him to lead. Elizabeth vowed that it would be the last time he was in charge. She waited until the last note of the love song before she went into action. Elizabeth nonchalantly pulled away from his arms even while her body screamed from the withdrawal. She looked into his eyes and then turned around and walked off the dance floor into the crowd of people. She didn’t turn back to see if Adam was trailing her. She was confident that he would follow. Her heart pounded against her ribs at the thought. Elizabeth walked to the double doors behind the crowd and opened them, entering the dark night. Leaving the doors open for Adam, she walked across the veranda and settled against a wooden column in the corner. She barely had time to lean against the rough wood when Adam placed his hand on her shoulder. Nervousness zinged through Elizabeth’s body as she turned around. Her gaze drifted over Adam. His face was partially hidden in shadow. Moonlight gleamed across his angular cheekbones and jaw. She could see his blue eyes glittering with desire.

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She slowly leaned into him, wanting to torture him with the agonizing anticipation she felt on the dance floor. He lowered his head, eager to taste her lips. Elizabeth placed her hands on either side of his head. She wanted to kiss him voraciously, but she also wanted to take charge. Elizabeth brushed her lips against his. Adam pressed closer as his hands went around her waist. She responded by nipping at his bottom lip, her sharp teeth pulling and tugging teasingly. Adam tried to deepen the kiss, but Elizabeth tugged his hair. He hesitated as she continued her torment. She increased the pressure on his mouth, nibbling his lips. Adam reciprocated, running his teeth against her upper lip, scratching them slightly. A shudder ran through Elizabeth. She was hungry for his kiss, hungry for him, but she wanted to savor the experience. Elizabeth flicked her tongue into his open mouth. Adam greedily sucked on it. She trembled from the sensation. She pushed his head closer while she leaned into his body. His hands slid up her back, cradling her. Elizabeth rejoiced in the embrace. She loved the feeling of being surrounded by Adam. Adam continued to kiss her hungrily as she trailed her hands down the sides of his face. Her fingers lightly danced down his chest. The heat from his body was alluring. She wanted to feel it. She needed to touch his skin. She lowered her hands, pulling the edge of his shirt before sliding her fingertips underneath. His abdomen was rock hard. Her fingers tangled with the light sprinkling of hair as she slid her hands up through his shirt. The warmth of his skin was hypnotic. Elizabeth ran her hands over his chest, scraping his nipples with her fingernails. Adam shivered in response. He kissed her roughly, invading her mouth. His hands smoothed over her back before he tugged at her shirt. Her skin felt feverish against the summer breeze. She moaned when Adam glided his large calloused hands against her bare spine. His fingers tripped against her bra for a mere second. Plenty of time for him to release the back clasp. The flimsy piece of lingerie gave easily and Adam skimmed his hands to her sides. His movements were so light that they tickled. Elizabeth wiggled from the innocent torture. Elizabeth slid her hands to his back, exploring his defined, sleek muscles. She kissed him mindlessly, her mouth sliding off of his. Adam ducked his head and tasted her neck. She arched and he lightly bit her throat, groaning as her head fell back, resting against the wooden column.

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Adam pressed her against the column, sliding his hands out of her shirt. She whimpered, wanting his touch on her naked skin. Elizabeth gasped as he grabbed her hips and lifted her. Suddenly her back was leaning against the wooden column while her legs automatically wrapped around Adam’s waist. The pulsating juncture of her thighs was pressed intimately against his throbbing groin. He bunched her shirt up and boldly swept her bra out his way. Adam placed his hands on her breasts, exploring the shape and weight. His long fingers squeezed as he brushed her puckering nipples with the pad of his thumb. Elizabeth was nearly out of her mind from his touch. She quickly removed her hands out of his shirt and placed them on the back of his head. She tried to get him to replace his hands with his mouth, but Adam wouldn’t let Elizabeth give the orders. He licked and lapped at her quivering stomach instead. His hot mouth slicked across her ribs while his hands stroked her breasts. Elizabeth stopped trying to command Adam, surrendering to the carnal sensations. The surrendering frightened and excited her. She resented yet welcomed his dominating hands. She enjoyed his mastering touch while wanting to master him. All thought escaped her mind when his moist mouth grazed her breast. Elizabeth cried out as Adam outlined the areola with his tongue before sucking her nipple. She pressed his head even closer. Elizabeth yielded to Adam, body and mind. She wanted him desperately and rotated her pelvis against him. Adam growled against her breasts before tearing his head away from her. He looked in her eyes, his own eyes bright with desire and longing. His face was taut as he tried to maintain his control. Adam’s breath was ragged as he hoarsely said, “I want you.” It wasn’t a request, waiting for a reply. It wasn’t even a statement of fact. Adam wanted her and wanted her complete submission. He could take her easily. She was beyond reason and would give him anything, everything. But Adam wanted to hear her surrender with words before he conquered her body. “Yes,” she replied without hesitation, her voice wobbly. Adam’s eyes gleamed with triumph as he pulled her away from the wooden column and gathered her close. He carried her down the steps, determined to find a more private place. He

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tensed when he heard a screen door open on the other side of the lodge. Adam stilled when he heard Marianne calling out into the darkness. “Elizabeth? Where are you?” Elizabeth jumped, the fluid sensations floating in her body immediately frozen. Adam disregarded Marianne and continued walking. “Put me down,” Elizabeth said softly as she tried to wiggle out of his embrace. Adam tightened his grip. “Please,” she added. Adam looked down at her, his face clearly expressing his frustration. “Ignore it.” Elizabeth realized she needed to be more forceful. “Schmidt, let me go now.” Adam’s displeasure was obvious. He pulled her upright until they were face to face. His eyes flashed angrily as he lowered her slowly, her body sliding against his. Elizabeth closed her eyes as her body responded, overwhelmed by his presence. When her feet touched the ground, Adam let go. He remained where he stood, the heat shimmering from his body. Elizabeth stepped back and ducked her head, crossing her arms to hide her exposed breasts. Adam raked his hands through his hair. “Hell,” he bit out and walked away. He walked toward the woods, not looking back. Elizabeth watched until the darkness swallowed his retreating figure. “Elizabeth, where are you?” Marianne’s voice grew louder. Elizabeth gulped in a deep breath, hoping to calm her jittery nerves. It didn’t help. She fumbled with her bra and yanked her shirt down. “Right here,” she called out, praying that she sounded normal. She walked back to the lodge, fingering her hair back into place. Marianne appeared on the veranda, her presence almost hidden in the dusky night. “What’s up?” Elizabeth asked. “Where have you been?” Marianne asked. Elizabeth shrugged. “Just getting some fresh air.” Marianne folded her arms. “Uh-huh. I guess you needed to clear that brain of yours after dancing with Adam.” “I don’t know what you mean. I just danced with him.” “Yeah. Sure.” Elizabeth could sense Marianne’s eyes roll. “Next you’ll tell me you became all hot and bothered because the two-step is excessive exercise.”

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“First of all, it is. Second, I am not hot and bothered.” “Honey, I can feel your blush all the way over here.” “You’re mistaken. Is that why you came out here? To check on me? To see if I needed a chaperone? I’m a bit old for that.” “No, the guests are hoping there’s more chips and salsa and I couldn’t find it.” “Let me go get it.” Elizabeth was grateful to jump into any activity. “So, did you?” Marianne asked as she walked into the lodge with Elizabeth. “Did I what?” “Need a chaperone?” Elizabeth could feel her face flush crimson. Her stomach tightened from the memory of their hot embrace. “Of course not.” “Mm-hmm. I saw the two of you on the dance floor. I saw how you sashayed out of here and Adam followed you like a man possessed. And you’re telling me he didn’t make a pass at you?” “I’m telling you that I can handle Adam just fine.” Elizabeth was relieved she didn’t stutter over that lie. She thought she could control the lovemaking, but Adam overpowered her senses easily. And Elizabeth indulged in every minute of her defeat. “Are you crazy? This is Adam Schmidt we’re talking about. He’s a great guy—for a brother-in-law. He is not someone you want to get involved with, however. He has a bad reputation with women. He got his reputation because he earned it.” Elizabeth sighed. She was really getting tired of being lectured. “Marianne, I appreciate your concern, but it’s not necessary. I don’t want to get serious with anyone, remember?” “So, what exactly is going on with you two? It seemed serious on the dance floor.” “Well it’s not. How could a dance seem serious? It’s just a flirtation. Nothing more.” Elizabeth’s fluttering heart landed with a thump. It was just a flirtation, but she had seemed to forget that a few minutes ago. “Adam does not go around flirting. When he wants a woman, he goes after her.” The bald statement made her stomach flip. “And if he catches her,” Elizabeth replied, “he doesn’t hold onto her for long. That suits me just fine.” Marianne shook her head. “Don’t be stupid. You’re going to be heartbroken if you continue to ‘flirt’ with him.”

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“How can my heart be broken when it’s just sex?” “I know you. It never is ‘just sex’.” Elizabeth stumbled as the truth hit its mark. Marianne was right, she could never have sex with a guy without her heart involved. She only made love when she wanted to demonstrate her feelings on another level. Did this mean she was in love with Adam? No. Elizabeth wiped that thought from her mind. She couldn’t afford that possibility. Loving Adam would cost her everything. But she might be falling in love with him. Elizabeth knew she had to avoid him until her fragile feelings died from starvation and withered away. That was the only thing she could do to prevent from falling in love. If she hadn’t already. ***** It took Adam a long time to cool down. He stormed into the forest and marched to the lake. He considered jumping into the frigid water, but decided against it. He eventually gained control over his body. His temper was another matter. What game was she playing? Adam picked up a flat stone and threw it into the lake. He watched the stone skip across the calm water. Was Elizabeth a tease? Did she get her kicks tormenting him? Adam shook his head. He should have thrown her over his shoulder and found a secluded area where they could mate like wild animals. “Yeah right.” Adam threw another rock, the forceful movement indicating his frustration. Elizabeth would have scratched his eyes out if he used any caveman tactics. She definitely wouldn’t want to have sex in the woods with him. Or would she? Adam paused. His mind reviewed their passionate encounter on the porch. Elizabeth enjoyed his touch. He knew that for certain. She had instigated the rendezvous this time, and she was with him all the way. He clenched his teeth as his groin tightened from the memory. Heat flashed through his body as he remembered how she had acted. Elizabeth was no lady who didn’t want to get her hair messed up. She wasn’t a shy or nervous virgin.

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No, she acted like a woman. A woman who would mate like a wild animal, or make sensuous, slow love. She acted like a woman who would take him any way she could. She acted like a sexual woman who desired only him. So, why did she stop? Was she embarrassed that she wanted him? Had she woken up from a moment of insanity? Or was there something more? Did she have deeper feelings for him? Did she have no feelings? Maybe she had feelings, but they weren’t exactly the warm and fuzzy kind. “Forget it,” he muttered to himself and angrily turned away from the lake. What was he doing trying to analyze Elizabeth? He should know better than try to figure out any woman. She just got cold feet and stopped. She didn’t care if she left him throbbing with need. Just like a woman. Well, he knew better than to try and make another move on Elizabeth. Adam made a decision as he stalked through the forest. He wouldn’t try and get her in his bed. He didn’t have time for this kind of nonsense. If wanted sex, he’d find another woman. A willing, simple woman with simple needs. Adam stopped walking and stood still in the silent forest. What was he doing? Why was he lying to himself? He didn’t want any other woman. He wanted only one. He wanted Elizabeth. Adam needed her like a plant needed water. “Fool,” Adam muttered to himself. He was a fool. He wasn’t going to turn his back on something that could be fantastic. Adam knew that making love to Elizabeth would be amazing. It would be worth all the headaches, games and frustrations. He needed to go back to the party and find Elizabeth. He needed to lure her into his bed. And once she was in his bed, he wasn’t letting her out. ***** “So there you are.” Ben’s voice floated from the shadowy veranda as Adam approached the lodge. Adam couldn’t see his little brother and could barely make out the amber glow of Ben’s cigarette. “Looking for me?” Adam asked as he climbed the steps. “Nah. Just wondering.”

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The fine hairs on Adam’s neck stood up. His brother never wondered about his sibling’s whereabouts. Adam walked over to Ben and leaned against the railing. He didn’t know what was going on in Ben’s head, but he knew to get it out in the open before Ben started bugging him. “Whatcha doing out here?” Adam asked. “Taking a break.” Ben motioned at his cigarette. “Does Marianne know you’re still smoking? I thought you were quitting for her.” Ben took a defiant puff of smoke. “My deadline is my wedding day.” “That’s in about a month.” “Six weeks.” Adam made a face. “Marianne must be very special to you.” “She is.” “You’re giving up a lot for her. Smoking. Freedom to do what you want, when you want.” Ben shrugged. “Those things aren’t important.” “Yeah? What is?” Ben shuffled around uncomfortably. “You know, other stuff.” “Like?” Adam never missed an opportunity to tease his little brother. It was the only benefit he still had for being the eldest. “Like sharing a life with the woman you love.” Adam grinned as he imagined Ben’s beet red face. “You sharing? You were never big on sharing. Ever.” “Yeah, well, that was when I had to share my stuff with you. A totally different matter. I’m talking about sharing with Marianne.” Adam smiled and fell silent, watching Ben take another drag of his cigarette. “Ben, can I ask you a question?” “You just did.” Adam let out an exasperated sigh. “I have a serious question and I want a serious answer.” “Okay, what?” “When did you know that you wanted to get married?”

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Ben’s body stiffened. Adam could sense the tension in his brother’s body. “Why do you want to know?” “It’s just a question. Or am I getting too personal?” “This wouldn’t have anything to do with Elizabeth?” “Huh?” Adam was getting lost in this conversation, a common problem whenever he tried to have a heart-to-heart discussion. He should know better by now. “I saw you and Elizabeth on the dance floor.” “What does that have to do with anything?” “Nothing! Which is what I want you to remember.” “What are you trying to say, exactly?” Adam had a feeling he wasn’t going to like whatever came out of Ben’s mouth. “I don’t like what’s going on between you and Elizabeth.” “There’s nothing going on.” “Bullshit.” Ben practically spat out the word. “Don’t you remember me telling you to stay away from Elizabeth? And what do you do? You start messing with her.” “I’m not messing with anyone.” Adam could feel the anger growing inside him. It was Elizabeth who was messing with him. He wasn’t going to tell his brother that. “And now you’re asking me questions about marriage? God, you haven’t even had a long-term relationship!” “Now, wait just a minute—” “Marriage with Elizabeth.” Ben shuddered at the thought. “Elizabeth as my sister-in-law. No way am I standing for that.” “That’s enough.” Adam’s voice cut through Ben’s rambling. “You don’t have any say in who or when I marry. Understand? And I don’t want to hear you talking like that about Elizabeth. You do it again and I will personally ram the cigarette down your throat so far, you’ll be puffing smoke out the other end.” Ben shook his head. “You have it bad.” “I don’t have anything.” “You are so infatuated with Elizabeth, you can’t even think straight. It’s obvious.” “Shut up.”

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“And that’s all it is. Infatuation. I hope you wake up and see what she’s really like before you get in too deep.” Adam folded his arms across his chest. “And what do you think she’s really like?” “Let’s see, she’s a bit…” Ben swallowed the word as Adam moved perceptibly closer, the air around him threatening. “A bit…bit bossy.” Adam nodded his head. “Yeah, she knows what she wants and how she wants it.” “She’s a man-hater.” “No, she has a problem with male chauvinists.” “She thinks every man is a male chauvinist.” “Her thinking is coming around on that.” Adam sounded more confident than he felt. He hoped he was proving her theory was incorrect. “She’s a raving, militant feminist.” “You mean, she’s struggling to make a place for herself in a male dominated workplace?” “Aw, God.” Ben threw down his cigarette butt on the porch floor and viciously grounded it with his shoe. “You’re in love with her.” “I am not.” Now why did his chest contract? Why did he feel hollow as he denied that statement? “Yes, you are.” Ben faced his older brother. “Do me a favor. No, do yourself a favor. Keep your sanity and stay away from Elizabeth.” “I can handle her just fine, and I’m not in love with her.” There goes that funny feeling in his stomach again. “Sure. Only a fool in love would follow her around today. Only a love-struck idiot would watch every move she made. And only a love-crazed moron—” “I get the point. And it isn’t love. It’s lust.” Ben held up both hands in protest. “Too much information. I don’t want to know.” “And I’m not even thinking of marriage.” “That’s a relief.” “I don’t know what’s with you these days,” Adam grumbled. “Come to think of it, everyone around me seems to be suffering from wedding fever.” “Sorry.”

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“I ask a simple question and I get the third degree.” “All right. I said I’m sorry.” “Marriage. What made you think I wanted to get married? I’m not looking for a relationship. I’m not even looking for a woman to take to your wedding.” “Okay.” “So would everyone just get off my back about my intentions? I don’t want to marry Elizabeth. I don’t want to have an affair with her, and I don’t want to date her. I just want to sleep with her. Do I make myself clear?” “Yes. Can I go back inside now?” “Yeah, sure.” Adam felt strangely empty from his outburst. What was going on with him? Why did he lie so vehemently about what he wanted from Elizabeth? Why was he so scared of committing himself to a relationship? Was it more than losing his freedom? Or did it have to do with the fear of failure? Adam shook his head, trying to expel this barren feeling from his body. He saw Ben halt and heard the screen door creaking open. Adam sensed trouble as his eyes darted toward the door. His gut twisted sharply as he saw the silhouettes of Elizabeth and Marianne standing there. “Hey, babe,” Ben said to Marianne, the jovial tone forced, “I was just coming to look for you.” “What a coincidence,” Marianne replied dryly, “we came out for you. Elizabeth just put in her beloved Meatloaf CD.” “Ugh,” Ben said as he marched toward the door. “I thought you might want to do ‘Paradise by the Dashboard Light’ with Marianne,” Elizabeth suggested. Adam could hear her voice lacked the usually vibrancy. He knew at that moment that she’d heard his last comment. “Come on, Ben,” Marianne said as she dragged him through the doorway. “Elizabeth says we should do this as our song for the wedding reception.” “I don’t think so!” Ben’s voice raised a couple of octaves. “I’m kidding. Let’s dance.” Marianne dragged her fiancé away. Adam had remained uncomfortably silent during the conversation. He was waiting for Elizabeth to let him have it with a few choice words. He was somewhat surprised to see her turn around and start walking away quietly.

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“Hey!” Adam called out to Elizabeth, not knowing what to say or how to apologize for what he’d said to his brother. Elizabeth turned around. “Yeah?” “I don’t know what you heard, but…” She leaned against the doorframe. “I know that you ‘don’t want an affair or to date’ me. You just want to sleep with me. So what? Tell me something I don’t know.” Adam could feel his skin flush. “What do you mean ‘so what’?” He shook his head. “Most women would usually have a temper tantrum right now. Or start crying. At least they would try to punch me.” Elizabeth pushed her body away from the doorframe. “Yeah, well, those women would think you were some big prize to take to the altar. I’m not one of those women.” Adam watched in amazement as Elizabeth calmly walked away, his mouth hung in surprise. Now what was that supposed to mean? Is she saying she knew better than those women? That he was no grand prize? That he wasn’t marriage material? His surprise dissolved as he replayed her words in his mind. She just might have a point. He wasn’t exactly husband material. He might be in good health and have a large bank account, but Elizabeth didn’t measure men by those attributes. She defined a man by his character and inner strength. By his code of honor. Adam liked to think he could pass any test Elizabeth threw at him, but he had a feeling he would struggle through it. He definitely wouldn’t get any bonus points over the way he’d acted tonight. Adam let out a weary sigh. What was he worried about? Elizabeth didn’t even believe in marriage. So what if he didn’t want marriage or a relationship with her. She didn’t care. She knew that about him from the very beginning. It was the same views she held. So why did he feel like he’d just taken a giant step back in gaining Elizabeth’s affections? Why did he feel like he disappointed her in some way? And why was he disappointed that she didn’t have a temper tantrum over his words? Adam raked his hands through his hair. Maybe Ben was right. He had it bad. He was a fool, an idiot, and a moron. Elizabeth had somehow got under his skin, and he couldn’t shake her from his thoughts for long. He had to do something about it before this crazy feeling consumed him whole.

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Chapter Eight “We’re doing great!” Marianne said two weeks later as her friends gathered around the dining room table in her parents’ home. “Only one hundred more invitations to go.” Elizabeth swallowed the tired groan that crept into her throat. She looked at the large pile of envelopes she was addressing. “We should get paid for this,” she mumbled. “What’s all the complaining about?” Jackie asked as she organized the invitations, reception cards, and the stamped r.s.v.p. postcards. “You guys get the easy jobs.” “Easy?” Leah asked. “I’m bleeding from folding these programs for the ceremony.” “And my hand is cramping,” Elizabeth said. “You need to understand that I spent most of today working on an English paper.” “You’ve been in school for only two weeks and they’re already making you write papers?” Jackie was stunned by the idea. “Yuck.” Two weeks? Elizabeth couldn’t believe it. It felt much longer than that. She was only taking two classes and felt overwhelmed. Her evening class was algebra. Elizabeth felt a little rusty on the basics, but she figured she would do well. Unfortunately, her professor believed in doing an obscene amount of homework. Her Saturday English class was worse. Elizabeth had enrolled in English Composition 101, but now she wondered if she needed to take a remedial course. The moment her teacher started diagramming sentences on the board, Elizabeth knew she was in trouble. The classes and homework were just the beginning of her difficulties. Elizabeth was exhausted. She desperately needed to go grocery shopping. She’d better go through her bills tonight or pay late fees next month. Her apartment looked like a tornado blew through it. Elizabeth used to have the time to deal with the necessary errands. Now she was trying to solve equations during her lunch and read her homework assignments at the Laundromat. She should be at the Laundromat this Saturday night. Instead she was helping Marianne stuff three hundred wedding invitations. Elizabeth looked down at her outfit and grimaced. She dug out the red T-shirt and faded denim miniskirt from the back of her closet. They were at least

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five years old and didn’t fit very well. The shirt was too snug across the chest and the skirt was shorter than she remembered. “Why isn’t Ben helping out?” Leah asked, flinching as she gave herself another cut. “Or do men get out of all the wedding work?” “You’ve been hanging around Elizabeth too much,” Jackie said. “Ben and Adam are getting fitted for tuxedos,” Marianne explained. “Ben, in a tuxedo?” Leah asked. “This I have to see.” Elizabeth nodded her head as she imagined Adam elegantly dressed. The image was clear in her mind. A black jacket emphasizing his athletic build. The snowy white shirt contrasting against his golden tan. The debonair bow tie and his rakish grin. Elizabeth felt a little flustered at the thought. “Elizabeth, you’re holding up the line,” Jackie announced. “Sorry,” she said. Elizabeth stared at the envelopes before her. She would scream if she had to address one more invitation. “Here, let’s trade,” Leah offered, rising from her chair. “I don’t have any skin left for paper cuts.” “Huh? Oh, sure.” Elizabeth sluggishly exchanged places. She glanced at the cover of the programs that were folded. A bold contemporary design slashed across the page. Black and white were Marianne’s wedding colors. Elizabeth thought they were presented dramatically on the program. “What’s this?” Elizabeth asked as she read the words. “It’s the Apache Wedding Blessing,” Marianne replied. “I know it’s more traditional to use a Bible verse….” Elizabeth tuned out her friend as the words leapt off the page and into her heart. Now you will feel no rain, For each of you will be shelter to the other. Now you will feel no cold, For each of you will be warmth to the other. Now there is no loneliness for you, For each of you will be companion to the other. Now you are two persons,

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But there is one life before you. Go now to your dwelling place, To enter into the days of your togetherness. And may your days be good and long upon this earth. Elizabeth read the blessing again. Key words flashed through her mind. Shelter. Warmth. Companion. One life. Togetherness. Her throat tightened painfully. A longing that simmered deep in her soul roared through her body. She tried to blink away the stinging wetness in her eyes. Is this what marriage is like? Is it about togetherness and warmth? Or is that just the ideal that everyone strives for but no one achieves? Is this realistic or fantasy? “Elizabeth, you’re slacking off again.” Elizabeth jumped at Jackie’s accusation. She flashed an apologetic smile at her friend before viciously creasing the wedding programs. Yeah, Elizabeth thought, this had to be the ideal. She didn’t know any married couple that experienced that kind of companionship. It just wasn’t possible. So why did she wish it was possible? That it was the norm and not the extraordinary? Elizabeth let out a shaky sigh. She had to stop thinking of marriage. She didn’t want it, didn’t need it, and hadn’t asked for it. She couldn’t wait for Marianne’s wedding to be over. Then she wouldn’t have the constant, insidious exposure to wedding fever. ***** “Thanks a lot you guys,” Marianne said later that evening. “I couldn’t have done it without you.” “No problem,” Elizabeth stretched her arms over her head, easing the knot between her shoulders. She looked up and caught a glimpse of her watch. She could still make it to the Laundromat before the final call for last load. “Hey, let’s go mail these off,” Marianne suggested. The others nodded with agreement. “All of us?” Elizabeth asked. How many people does it take to mail three hundred invitations? “Then we can swing by the mall. I want to check on my bridal registry,” Marianne added.

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And the fun of that is? Elizabeth didn’t feel like going to the mall on a Saturday night. Or deal with any bridal registry. She had things to do. Of course, she’d already pushed her to-do list aside all week. She could catch up on her chores tomorrow. And she didn’t feel like being alone. It was a strange feeling. She didn’t need to be surrounded by people like Marianne always did, but right now Elizabeth hated the idea of being in an empty apartment. “Elizabeth can drive us,” Marianne said. Guess that settles it. “All of us?” Elizabeth asked. “Why not? We used to cram into your Gremlin all the time." Elizabeth shrugged. “Okay.” “Let me fix my make-up.” Jackie grabbed her purse and headed for the bathroom. Marianne and Leah talked over each other before going into opposite directions. “At this point the mall will close before we get there.” Elizabeth dug the car keys out of her purse. “You guys have five minutes and then I’m leaving. With or without you,” she called out. No one responded. Elizabeth rolled her eyes and headed out the door. “Why did I agree to this?” ***** Elizabeth wondered again why she had agreed to the outing. Leah and Jackie were squashed together in the small backseat of her Gremlin while Marianne sat in the front. They all were comparing the weddings they’d attended recently. The radio speakers blaring a static-filled AM station couldn’t drown out their voices. “Maybe I should call Ben and see how he’s doing,” Marianne said as she reached inside her purse. Elizabeth glanced over to the passenger side. “When did you get a cell phone?” Marianne smiled widely. “Ben gave it to me.” “He gave you a phone?” Leah called out over the music. “Cool? Does he have one?” “Yep. That way I can get a hold of him anytime.” “More like he can get a hold of you 24-7,” Elizabeth muttered. Jackie sighed. “His and her phones. How romantic.” “That’s one way of putting it,” Elizabeth commented dryly.

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“Ben worries about me,” Marianne explained. “And it’s comforting to know I can reach him in case of an emergency.” “Let me ask you,” Elizabeth said, “is the phone just for emergency or for checking up—I mean, in with each other?” “I am checking in with Ben,” Marianne pointed out. “Mmm-hmm. Oh!” Elizabeth jumped as she heard her front tire blow out. Her friends in the back screamed, clutching the front seat. She immediately let off the gas pedal and deftly maneuvered her car to the side of the road. Elizabeth had become something of an expert with flats since she got her tires at the junkyard. “Damn,” she hissed as she shoved her car into Park and put on the hazard lights. “What happened?” Leah asked. “I think I got a flat tire.” “Great,” Jackie wailed. “We’re miles away from civilization and now I have to walk back in these shoes.” She pointed at her flat shoes with uncomfortable looking square toes. Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “There are subdivisions nearby.” “Yeah, past the cornfields,” Leah complained. “We should have taken the highway.” “Not to worry.” Marianne started pushing buttons on her phone. “I’ll call Ben for help.” “You are not calling anyone. I can handle this.” Elizabeth decisively unsnapped her seatbelt. “I’m sure Ben has changed a hundred tires in his lifetime. We could use his help,” Marianne argued as Elizabeth reached over to the glove compartment and took out a flashlight. “We are not stranded,” Elizabeth said, her voice edged with frustration. “I know how to change a tire.” “Come on, Elizabeth,” Jackie complained. “What are guys for? They live for this kind of stuff.” “I can handle it myself.” Elizabeth opened the door and stepped onto the empty road. She looked back at Marianne. “No telephone calls.” Marianne raised her hands in surrender. Elizabeth could tell at a glance that the tire was flat. After closer inspection, she noticed a puncture in the rubber. She walked over to her friends. “Yep, it’s definitely a flat. Everybody out,” she ordered, ignoring her friends’ grumbling.

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She changed the tire, although not as efficiently as she would have liked. With the exception of lifting the spare and flat tire, her friends huddled on the side of the road. “Finished!” Elizabeth announced some time later with a sense of accomplishment. Her friends oohed and ahhed her handiwork. “Good thing you have that tire changing kit,” Leah said as Elizabeth placed the jack back into her car. “Yeah, my mom gave it to me for Christmas one year. Now that’s a present that shows caring and concern.” Elizabeth shot a teasing look at Marianne. Her friend stuck out her tongue in response. “Your hands are all dirty,” Jackie complained, wrinkling her nose. Elizabeth looked at the smudges on her hands. “This is better than the first time I changed a tire.” Her voiced trailed off as she saw headlights slicing through the darkness. From the height of the lights, she assumed it was a pick-up truck. “Let’s get back in the car.” She turned back to her Gremlin and found Marianne standing in front of her. Her face expressed guilt. “Uh, Elizabeth,” Elizabeth’s forehead wrinkled into a frown. “Wait a second. That looked a lot like Adam’s truck.” She twirled around. “That is Adam. Marianne!” “I kind of called Ben,” Marianne confessed. “Kind of? You either did or you didn’t.” “I…did.” “When?” Elizabeth put her hands on her hips. “While you were getting your kit out.” Elizabeth let out a deep sigh of anger. “Thanks. Thanks a lot.” “What’s the big deal? Now you don’t have to worry about the tire. The guys will see to it.” Shaking her head, Elizabeth let out a deep sigh. Marianne just didn’t get it. She didn’t need rescuing. She didn’t depend on a man. After struggling for independence and equality, the last thing she wanted was to call for help at the first sign of trouble. “Here comes Ben and Adam. Could you pretend to be happy to see them?” Marianne pleaded. “I don’t need a battle of the sexes on the side of the road.” “You mean act like a damsel in distress?”

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“Basically.” “Which goes against everything I believe in.” “Please?” Elizabeth growled in the back of her throat. “I’ll see what I can do.” She heard a car door slam. “What the hell are you guys doing on this road?” Ben yelled as he approached Marianne and Elizabeth. Elizabeth’s eyes narrowed with anger. “Deal’s off.” She turned to yell back at Ben. Her eyes sought out Adam as Ben walked past her. It had been two weeks since she’d seen him. She thought she would feel embarrassment or discomfort after their interrupted—and stupid—make out session. Instead, a fiery desire began to smolder in the pit of her stomach. He looked better than ever, if that was possible. His pale blue T-shirt stretched against his solid chest and his almost white jeans hugged his lean legs. Battered tennis shoes completed the outfit. Adam’s golden tan seemed darker. His dark blonde hair ruffled slightly in the September breeze. Why did he have to be so gorgeous? She slowly realized that his handsome facial features were sharpened with anger. His brown eyes blazed furiously. Directly at her. Confusion stirred inside her. What did she do? Why was he angry with her? If he was going to lecture her, he had another thought coming. ***** Adam stalked over to Elizabeth, barely paying attention to her friends or her sorry excuse of a car. He wasn’t yelling like his brother although he really wanted to. Adam remained silent since his control over his temper was slipping. When he’d first heard that Elizabeth had car trouble, he was concerned. Enough to volunteer driving over with Ben. But when he saw where the car had stopped, a paralyzing fear had claimed his body. The car was next to a cornfield and nothing else. There was some weak moonlight, but the car was otherwise surrounded in darkness. And then he saw Elizabeth. His immobilizing fear transformed into sharp lasers that zapped his churning stomach. Elizabeth wore a skimpy T-shirt and a miniskirt that inspired any red-blooded male to rip it off her body. The sexy vision was making a mess out of his emotions.

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He wanted to enjoy the view. He wanted to cover her up. He wanted to see more of her naked legs. God, I have it bad. Two weeks of not seeing or talking to her and I’m acting like a kid in junior high. He couldn’t believe she would dress like that. He liked it, a lot. It was just unexpected. She was wearing something that showed off her femininity. Wearing something that could only get her in trouble. If she wanted trouble, he would gladly provide it. He stood in front of her and crossed his arms. He stared silently at her, radiating anger. She copied his position and returned his stare defiantly. Okay, Adam decided, intimidating silent treatment doesn’t work on Elizabeth. He’ll have to file that in his mind for future reference. His eyes flickered on his brother ranting at Marianne. Adam was envious of his brother. As Marianne’s fiancé, Ben had the unwritten right to get upset and let everyone know about it. Adam returned his attention back to Elizabeth. “Hear you’re having car trouble.” Elizabeth shook her head. “No, I’m not.” Adam’s eyes widened. He hadn’t expected her to ask for help, but he hadn’t thought she would lie about it. The anger inside him flared. “You’re not? Do you usually hang out on country roads?” “Oh, yeah. Sure.” Sarcasm dripped from every word. “It’s right up there with cruising Main Street.” Adam felt his jaw clench. He concentrated on relaxing his muscles. “Do you have a flat or not?” “Not,” Elizabeth replied. “We did, but I fixed it. You can go on with your business. Sorry for the inconvenience.” “Since I’m here, I’ll check the tire.” He walked past her before she could stop him. “There’s no need to check. It’s fine.” Adam noted Elizabeth’s offended tone. Why was she so upset that he was helping? It didn’t make sense. “Which one is it?” he asked. “If you can’t tell, then I obviously did a good job.” Adam turned and glared at Elizabeth. He must have looked ferocious because she took a step back. “Which one is it?” he asked through clenched teeth.

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“I’m not telling.” Ferocious doesn’t work on the woman either. Well, maybe not this particular woman. He turned to her friends and repeated the question. They immediately pointed to the front left tire. “This isn’t necessary,” Elizabeth said as she followed him around the rust-colored car. Adam ignored her. He squatted down next to the tire and inspected it. Elizabeth wasn’t going to let him do it in peace. She stood next to him and leaned against the car. She glared at him, but he didn’t really notice. Especially since her bare legs were inches away from his face. Adam had difficulty concentrating on his self-imposed task. He hadn’t been a leg man until he’d met Elizabeth. These days he fantasized about those legs wrapped around his waist. Even now he was tempted to caress her calf and place a soft, teasing kiss behind her knee. He probably would indulge in the craving if she weren’t in such a bad, weird mood. She undoubtedly would kick his teeth in if he tried. Adam hurriedly stood up and experimentally kicked the tires. “Looks good.” “Gee, you don’t know what your approval means to me.” Adam faced Elizabeth. “What’s your problem?” “Okay, it’s time to go!” Marianne rushed toward Elizabeth. “The tire is fixed. No reason to stay here. We better get to the mall before it closes.” “It’s going to close in ten minutes.” Elizabeth briefly glanced at her friend. “Then let’s go home.” Marianne placed a firm hand on Elizabeth’s arm. “Please.” Adam watched Elizabeth hesitate before stepping away. “Goodnight, Adam. Thank you for coming to help.” Elizabeth opened her car door. She pushed the seat forward so that her friends could get in the back. “We’ll follow you home,” Ben said as he assisted Marianne in the Gremlin. “No thanks. We’ll be fine,” Elizabeth said over the car roof. Adam walked by her. “It wasn’t an offer.” He continued walking to his truck without a backward glance even as Elizabeth slammed her door. He hurried into his truck and started the engine. Knowing Elizabeth, she would make a fast get-away and try to lose them. “Hurry up,” Adam ordered his brother who was getting into the truck. The Gremlin shot off like a bullet. “Yep, just as I suspected. Hang on, Ben.” “Jeez!” Ben fumbled with his seatbelt. You’re as bad as she is.”

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Adam smiled in response. ***** The woman drove like a maniac, Adam decided almost twenty minutes later as he followed Elizabeth down a series of old brick streets. It was no wonder she had so much car trouble. She treated the Gremlin with little respect. He wasn’t sure why he was still following her. He dropped Ben at Marianne’s house while Elizabeth let out all of her passengers. The Gremlin and its new tire looked fine. There was no good reason why he felt it necessary to see her home safely. The Gremlin made a sudden sharp turn into the East Side Park. Elizabeth’s car swerved into the gravel lot before coming to a screeching halt. Adam instantly followed her into the parking lot. He wondered if she was okay. His concern mushroomed at the speed of light. Was the car smoking? Wobbling? Sputtering? He parked his truck beside hers and turned it off just as she jumped out and marched over to his door. The look on her face was pure anger. Now what did I do? A mischievous thought popped into his mind. He rolled down his window. “You know, you’re beautiful when you’re angry.” OO-WHEE. Elizabeth’s eyes spat venom. He was in for it now. He couldn’t wait.

Chapter Nine “Ooh!” Elizabeth wanted to stomp her feet. She glared at Adam as he rested his sly face against his hand. He looked so casual and untroubled watching her. “It’s amazing,” she said. “You have this uncanny ability to say the worst thing at the most inappropriate times.” Adam shrugged. “It’s a gift.” “It’s annoying,” she corrected as she stepped onto the running board of his truck. She didn’t like how he towered over her with disregard to her anger. The added height of the step

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didn’t seem to give her any advantage. He looked coolly into her flashing eyes. “And your following me is very annoying.” “I’m not following you.” “Oh? You just happen to take the same streets I am? What a coincidence.” “I’m escorting you home.” “I don’t need an escort.” “Your tire—” “Is fine, thank you. I’m not having any trouble. You can go home now. Or to the bars, or wherever you go on Saturday night.” Adam leaned his chin deeper into his palm. “You really don’t like other people helping you, do you?” “Eureka!” Elizabeth raised her hands like a TV evangelist. “He finally gets it.” Adam raised an eyebrow. “Is it just my help you don’t like, or everybody’s?” Elizabeth drew back. For some reason the question rattled her. She tried to cover up her uncertainty. “Just the help of arrogant men.” “Arrogant? Me?” Elizabeth scoffed at his disbelief. “’Let me check the tire’. ‘We’ll follow you home.’ ‘That’s not an offer’. Does any of that ring a bell?” “Okay, it does sound a little arrogant when you take it out of context.” “It sounds arrogant no matter what. How would you like it if I said that to you?” Adam chuckled over the possibility. Elizabeth’s eyes narrowed at his reaction. “Oh, you make me so angry!” She clenched her fists. “Angry?” The smile on Adam’s face vanished. “How do you think I felt seeing you stranded? In that …‘car’?” “I’ve already apologized for being an inconvenience.” “Inconvenience nothing.” He raked his hand through his hair. “It was stupid taking that road in that car. Hell, it’s stupid driving the car.” “Now wait just a minute—” “No, you wait a minute. You were damn lucky Marianne had the phone.” “I can take care of myself just fine. I’ve been doing it for twenty—Aagh!”

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Elizabeth yelped in surprise as Adam reached through the open window and lifted her. He hauled her inside the truck cab. She landed in an awkward sprawl on his lap. “You were saying?” Adam’s voice was smug. “This doesn’t prove anything.” She squirmed around trying to get into a decent sitting position. She managed to place her knees together and face Adam, very aware that her skirt rode up her legs. “I can take care of myself, but I may need some self-defense classes. And when I do, you better watch out.” “I guess I’ve been warned.” Elizabeth struggled to get off Adam’s legs. “Let me out.” “I don’t think so.” She glared at him. His face was just a few inches away from hers. His blue eyes shimmered with laughter. “You’ve made your point, Schmidt. Put me down.” “Why would I want to do that?” She smiled sweetly, putting Adam instantly on guard. “Because otherwise my knee is going to do grave injury to an important part of your body.” “Then let’s move the knee,” Adam insisted just as nicely. His hands trailed down her ribs and hips. She shivered from the playful touch. His fingers brushed her exposed thighs before resting on her knees, gently pushing them apart until she was straddling him. Her breath hitched in her throat as her bare thighs rubbed against the rough denim of his jeans. “This isn’t funny,” she breathed. “Who’s laughing?” he replied huskily. His eyes reflected his seriousness. And his desire. Her spine turned to jelly from his intense look. Elizabeth nervously looked elsewhere, her eyes darting around the gray interior. It was smaller than she remembered. Then again, the last time she hadn’t been sitting on top of Adam, pressed against his chest. Or her back bumping against the steering wheel. Her gaze skittered to his shoulder where her hands rested. It seemed to be a safe place to look while sitting in such a suggestive position. His shoulder and chest rose and fell with every ragged breath. Or was that her breathing? She could hear her trembling gasps over the gentle breeze coming through the window.

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The cool wind drifted over her hair, teasing it until it fell over her flushed cheek. The air mingled her perfume with his clean soap scent. Elizabeth’s gaze traveled to the strong column of his neck. His pulse pounded furiously. She wanted to trace her fingers against it. Trace it in hypnotic circles the way his rough fingertips were caressing the outer edge of her knees. Longing pulled at her like a whirlpool. Waves of desire lapped through her veins. She felt weightless with Adam’s strong hands holding her steady. What was happening to her? Elizabeth knew better than to test this attraction. He was so much more experienced in these matters. Already he baited her and she was about to be reeled in. She had to leave. She didn’t want to, but she knew it was necessary. “Let me out.” The demand came out as a whisper. His fingers stilled on her knees. “The door is right there.” Elizabeth continued staring at his throat. Indecision and need swamped her. Had he refused her or tried to sweet-talk her into staying, she would have clawed her way out. Instead he gave her the choice. She wanted the choice to stay. She leaned forward and inhaled his scent. She pressed her open mouth under his ear and kissed his warm skin. Adam tightly grabbed her knees. “Princess?” he growled. “Hmm?” She nipped her way to his ear and gently bit his earlobe. He instinctively ducked his head and bumped against her forehead. “You better not be teasing me.” His breath tickled her cheek. Anticipation zinged through her body. “Does this feel like teasing?” She darted her tongue into the cavern of his ear. Elizabeth smiled as his hands bolted from her knees and cupped her face. Adam held Elizabeth slightly away. The bumpy steering wheel rubbed against the small of her back. She squirmed a bit to find a more comfortable spot. Adam muffled a groan. Elizabeth tried to hide her wicked smile. “What’s your game, princess?” His eyes glittered. Elizabeth wished she could see all of his face. The truck was parked in the shadows. A dim streetlight shed a stream of pale light near the ceiling of the cab. “What are you trying to prove?”

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“Nothing.” She couldn’t stop her smile from widening. Elizabeth looked boldly in his eyes with the confidence of one who is desired. The way Adam looked at her made her feel like the sexiest woman alive. “Don’t you want me?” His eyes raged with raw sexuality. Elizabeth felt a twinge of uncertainty, wondering if she had been treading in deceptively dangerous waters. She realized she was in over her head the moment Adam pulled her closer and claimed her with a hot, wet kiss. Elizabeth eagerly accepted the kiss while her mind melted with confusion. She didn’t want him to take charge, yet she found his seductive kisses addicting. She gasped as Adam dipped his tongue past her lips. The urge to surrender was overwhelming, but she knew she didn’t want to be conquered. Not this time. Elizabeth wanted to be an equal partner, if not the dominator of the seduction. She slid her hands to his face, cupping his jaw. Elizabeth deepened the kiss. Her splayed fingers brushed against his hair. She let her hands dive in the thick waves, pulling him down onto the headrest. Adam didn’t seem to mind her aggression. Quite the opposite. His kisses grew hard and consuming. He shoved his hand through her straight hair and gripped the back of her head. His mouth bruised hers as they tried to get closer. Elizabeth felt like her body was plunged into boiling water. She was hot all over, her skin feverish. The cool breeze wafting under her shirt came as a surprise. She inhaled sharply from the contrast. Her lungs expanded when she felt Adam’s fingers brushing against her bare ribs. She arched back, tearing her swollen lips from his mouth. Elizabeth rose off Adam’s lap and guided his head to her neck. Adam didn’t need any guidance. He placed slick kisses down her throat. Elizabeth leaned her head back, giving him better access. He nipped, bit and sucked on her collarbone while his hands glided over her ribcage, expertly unhooking her bra. Elizabeth pulled at Adam’s shirt, loosening it from his jeans. She shoved the cotton material up and caressed his muscular chest. His skin was burning like hers. The cool air blew against her naked breasts for a moment until Adam’s hands covered them. He rubbed and teased them, brushing his thumbs against the hardening nipples. Elizabeth heard her own voice moaning as Adam lightly pinched the peaks of her breasts.

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She decided she had enough of his teasing. She tried to push his head lower but he resisted. Adam continued massaging and caressing her breasts until she was ready to beg for his mouth. The fact that she was so close to pleading infuriated her. Scared her. She had to gain control. “Damn it,” she muttered and grabbed him by the ears. She felt a chuckle vibrate through his chest as she lowered his face to her breast. He nuzzled his face against her. Elizabeth shuddered from the unexpected touch. There was something almost loving about it. “Oh,” she breathed as Adam flicked his tongue on her aroused nipples. “Yesss,” she hissed. A warm, syrupy feeling suffused her body as Adam tugged and suckled her breasts. A tingling sensation zipped through her chest and down her abdomen. She let out a small shriek. “Mm?” Adam asked, pulling his head away from her. “What was that?” He flashed a sexy smile as his fingers edged the hem of her miniskirt. She stared at him open-mouth. There had been very few men in her life. She considered them experienced, yet none of them had made her feel so hot so quickly. She’d never ached for a man this fiercely. Her legs quivered when his hands skimmed her upper thighs. They weakly collapsed when Adam rubbed his hands against her panties. Elizabeth toppled forward, her head burrowed into his neck. Adam knew exactly what she wanted. He rubbed and caressed. Rhythmically then wildly. He hooked his other hand on the waistband of her cotton panties and slowly lowered them. Elizabeth impatiently kicked them off. The ache inside her was almost painful. She was desperate for release. For satisfaction. Elizabeth raised her head and kissed Adam’s face. He quickly turned toward her mouth to drink in her kisses. Her fingers skipped down his exposed chest to his jeans. She hurriedly yanked open the button before easing down the zipper. Adam’s legs tensed. He braced himself away from the seat so she could push the interfering fabric away.

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Once Elizabeth had accomplished her task, she caressed the light sprinkling of hair on his lower stomach. Her hand dipped down and encircled him. He was fully aroused. Adam groaned, squeezing his eyes shut as he fought for control. She stroked and rubbed his erection, teasing him the way he teased her. He leaned his head back, his handsome face expressing the passionate pleasure he felt from her touch. “God, woman,” he groaned. “I want you. Now.” Adam shoved her skirt up high around her waist. His hands clenched her naked hips as he guided her on top of him. Elizabeth whimpered with ecstasy as he slowly filled her. The fit was tight, almost to the point of discomfort. Adam pulled away before entering further. The slow rhythm drove Elizabeth wild as he stretched her. Elizabeth rotated her hips. “Don’t,” Adam ordered against her ear. “Not yet.” “I can’t help it,” she said as she held onto his shoulders. A primitive need flooded her body. She swiveled her hips back and forth, up and down, side to side. Elizabeth moved slowly at first, unable to stay still. Desire tugged at her abdomen. The pulling grew stronger. She instinctively increased her pace while Adam met and surpassed it. “More,” she begged, closing her eyes as her body shook with pleasure. “I want more.” Her muscles quivered uncontrollably. She burrowed her face into Adam’s neck, muffling a scream as a tidal wave of passion swept through her. Adam surged in her once more before shouting his release. While his body trembled from the aftershocks, Adam cradled Elizabeth closer. She easily accepted the invitation to lean into him. Elizabeth hadn’t realized how much she craved his touch, his closeness. She snuggled in closer and felt Adam tense. Elizabeth frowned. What did I do wrong? “Oh, sh—” He straightened in his seat. Elizabeth fought for her balance. “What?” she asked. “The cops just pulled into the parking lot.” Elizabeth’s eyes bulged out. “What!” She looked in the back window and saw the police car stopped behind the truck. She quickly moved off Adam, vaguely hearing his hiss of pain. “Hurry and get dressed.”

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“I could say the same for you.” Adam turned and looked at her with smoky eyes. “Although it’s a shame to cover up that gorgeous body.” Elizabeth gave him a warning look as she fumbled with her bra. She gave a sigh of relief as she pulled down her shirt and skirt. “Done,” she announced, trying to finger her hair into order. “Don’t forget these.” Her panties dangled from his hooked finger. “Unless you want me to keep them as a souvenir.” Elizabeth snatched them away from Adam. She struggled getting them on, very aware of his interested gaze. Gorgeous body. Souvenir. Not exactly the emotional words she was hoping for. The brief union was unbelievable to her. She didn’t consider herself passionate or sexual. Now she knew better. She responded to Adam’s touch, deeply felt the need to touch him. She also felt the need to be with him. Adam obviously didn’t feel the same. He’d pretty much said it. She was a body. Their encounter wasn’t cataclysmic to him. He would need a trophy to remember it. Well, I was warned. Did that make it better, or just prove her to be stupid? The uniformed police officer suddenly appeared at the driver’s side. “Is there a problem, Adam?” Adam’s smile lit his face. “Hey, Daryl. I didn’t know this neighborhood was on your route.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes and folded her arms across her aching breasts. How can Adam conduct small talk after having mind-blowing sex? Unless it wasn’t as explosive for him. She felt the hurt anger welling inside. She wanted to go home and go to bed. And not come out until she was good and ready. “So her tire was causing problems again, which is why we had to stop here,” Adam was explaining. “Uh-huh.” Daryl didn’t believe a word. “It would have been fine if she let me change the tire.” Okay, that was it, Elizabeth decided. “I’m sure it’s fine now,” she interrupted sweetly, doing her best Jackie imitation. “I’ll be going now. Thanks for your help, Adam.” She opened the door and jumped down from the truck. She caught a brief glimpse of Adam’s bewildered

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face. Elizabeth kept walking to her car and concentrated on leaving the parking lot in a calm manner.

Chapter Ten “Whoa, Elizabeth, was that stripper hot or what?” Jackie fanned herself with a paper napkin. She took her sweating beer bottle and rested it on her cheek. Elizabeth and her friends were at Marianne’s bachelorette party. The festivities had started at a hotel suite. They just finished the lingerie shower when the stripper showed up dressed in a tuxedo. A special tuxedo with Velcro fastenings. “Why don’t you go after him?” Elizabeth asked Jackie. “Go after a stripper? Are you kidding? Strippers aren’t good marriage material. Which makes him perfect for you. Go after him.” Elizabeth shook her head. “I don’t think so.” He was very attractive, sexy even, but Elizabeth just wasn’t interested. Jackie laid her palm on Elizabeth’s hand. “Honey, you need to be with a man. What you’re doing isn’t healthy.” Be with a man. Two weeks ago she had been with a man. And not with just any man. She had the most tempestuous rendezvous with Adam Schmidt. But Jackie didn’t know that. None of Elizabeth’s friends knew. She’d kept those moments to herself. Her time with Adam had altered her in so many different ways. For a few brief seconds she’d felt like a desirable, sexy woman. Then she was reminded that it was just sex for him. That bothered her more than she’d like to admit. Later on the drive home, she’d almost ran onto a sidewalk when she remembered they had used no protection. The cold, clammy feeling invaded her body as she considered the consequences. She later found out that her encounter with Adam didn’t result in a pregnancy. Her dodging single motherhood also strengthened her resolve to work toward her dreams. Elizabeth didn’t want the day to come when she had to throw away an overflowing folder of dreams and wishes. She didn’t want to miss opportunities because of a man. Even if that man was Adam.

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Jackie frowned at Elizabeth. “What’s wrong? You’ve been bummed out all night.” Elizabeth straightened her spine. “I didn’t realize…” “Now that I think about it, you’ve been acting all down in the mouth for a couple of days. What gives?” Jackie snapped her fingers. “I know. When was the last time you were on a date?” Elizabeth’s shoulders sagged. “You have a one-track mind.” “Something’s bothering you. Why don’t you just tell me? Is it school?” Elizabeth groaned at the mention of school. She’d done an average job on her algebra pop quiz and scored low on an English composition. “No, everything is…okay at school. I’m just having trouble at work.” She scooted back her chair, trying to close the subject. “Hey,” Jackie stopped her. “I know we give you a hard time about your ideas and goals, but that’s because we love you. You take on these impossible challenges and we don’t want to see you get hurt or disappointed.” “They seem to get more impossible by the day,” she murmured. “So, what’s up with work? Is one of your bosses causing trouble? You want me to drop by the office and kick his butt?” Elizabeth chuckled at the idea. “Uh, no, but thanks for the offer. Anyway, this problem can’t be fixed so easily.” She took a deep breath. “I didn’t get the senior administrative assistant job.” Elizabeth winced as she said it. Even now, after a few days, it was still a crushing blow. Jackie’s mouth fell open. “No way! Who’d they give it to?” She wrinkled her nose. “Carolyn?” “Yep.” Jackie’s eyes widened with horror. “You mean she’s going to be your boss?” “Not really, but she’s going to try to make it that way.” “Why didn’t you get the promotion? I don’t understand it. You’ve worked your tail off for them.” “I don’t know.” Elizabeth shook her head. “I asked my supervisor and from the sounds of it, I wasn’t even considered. They offered the job to Carolyn. Can you imagine? A job offer! I never had one of those.” “Hmm. Are Carolyn and your supervisor chummy at work?” “Carolyn is chummy to everyone but me.”

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“Ah. Office politics,” Jackie said knowledgeably. “You can’t underestimate the power of networking.” “So, you’re saying that I should dump school and put all my energy in office bureaucracy.” “Don’t give up hope,” Jackie said earnestly. “You missed this chance, but there will be more. Better ones, once you get your degree.” “Yeah, and when will that happen? In another decade?” “It’s going to be worth it. Don’t give up.” “I thought you were totally against my going to school.” “Nah. Don’t throw in the towel just because of one disappointment.” “Hey, this is a major disappointment. Did you know that this promotion came with more money?” “Listen, I’ve been dating for…oh, over a decade. Do you remember how upset I was when my first boyfriend dumped me? I had plans with that guy. Sure, I was only fourteen, but I already knew I wanted to be married.” “Uh, this isn’t the same thing.” “Yeah, it is. Think about it. Did I give up on dating?” “Hardly.” “And where would I be if stuck with that guy? I would be miserable. And I would have missed out on finding Mr. Right.” “You still haven’t found Mr. Right.” Elizabeth loathed to point that out. “But he’s out there. And so is your perfect job.” Elizabeth gnawed thoughtfully on her bottom lip. Her friend made some sense. “You know, Jackie, you surprise me.” “I know.” Jackie smiled. “Do you feel better now?” She nodded. “A little bit.” “Good. Enough moping. Let’s party.” Jackie stood up and tossed her beer bottle in the wastebasket. “Everyone’s already leaving for the chicken and beer dance.” “What’s the hurry? I’m the designated driver. You guys aren’t going anywhere until I get to the car.”

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“Don’t dawdle,” Jackie said as she pushed Elizabeth out of the hotel room. “I love the band playing tonight.” Elizabeth glanced over her shoulder. “You just want to drool over the drummer.” Jackie flashed a naughty smile. “Hey, that guy could be my Mr. Right. Let’s go so I can find out.” ***** Elizabeth and her friends walked inside the VFW Hall a half an hour later. The large building was dark and smoky. Couples two-stepped around the dance floor to the live country rock band while individuals and groups line danced in the middle. The smell of chicken and beer permeated the air. Jackie sniffed appreciatively. “Let’s eat.” The group went directly to the long line. They received a lot of stares mainly because of Marianne’s attire. “You plan on dancing with that?” Leah asked Marianne, nodding to the tissue paper floral bouquet. Like other bachelorette parties in the area, the intended bride carried a mock floral arrangement and wore a small veil with her jeans and T-shirt. The bride-to-be would then get free drinks from bartenders and special attention from DJs and live bands. “You bet!” Marianne waved the flowers around and flipped her veil. “I only get to wear this once in my life.” “I can’t wait to wear a bachelorette veil.” Jackie sighed. “Even if I’d look like a fashion failure.” It didn’t take much effort for Elizabeth to keep her mouth shut. She refused to get into the discussion and bash weddings. She didn’t know why she felt this way. Five months ago she would heatedly debate it to the bitter end. What was wrong? Was she too mature to get into the discussion? Too disinterested? Too tired? Or maybe she didn’t feel as strongly against marriage and weddings as she once did. Did that mean she was for marriage? Nah. What did it mean? Elizabeth silently wrestled with the revelation until Marianne said her name. “I will pay big money to see Elizabeth wear a bachelorette veil.” “Not going to happen,” Elizabeth responded without looking back at her friends.

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“It’ll happen,” Leah decided. “Just not anytime soon since you’re spending all your free time at school.” “Maybe her Mr. Right is at college,” Jackie suggested. “Hey, Elizabeth, have you found anyone interesting lately?” An image of Adam popped in Elizabeth’s mind. While they were in the truck kissing each other. She felt her cheeks grow warm. “No,” she lied. “Interesting guys are few and far between.” Elizabeth couldn’t believe she’d told such a whopper of a lie. She was more than just interested in Adam. She loved him. No, that wasn’t the whole truth. She was in love with him. The love had grown slowly, bit by bit. One day she’d been annoyed by him and a few months later she couldn’t imagine a future without him. He’d filled her days with brightness and laughter. He’d fascinated and challenged her. She would give up everything—her goals, her dreams, her freedom as a single woman—to be with him. His power over her was frightening. She didn’t want him to ever figure out how much he could manipulate and rule her. Life was safer if Adam wasn’t in it. Sadness shrouded her. For the first time her future seemed bleak and barren. ***** Adam stepped into the VFW right behind his brother. The country rock was deafening and he could barely see in the shadowed interior. “This is stupid,” Adam said to Ben. “Let’s leave.” “No way.” Ben reached for his wallet and paid his entrance to the chicken and beer dance. “I have every right to be here.” Adam made a face and paid for his ticket. “You’re checking up on Marianne.” “Am not.” “Are, too.” “Not.” “Too.” Adam shook his head, disgusted that he’d stooped down into an immature argument. Ben always had that affect on him. “When was the last time you went to one of these dances?” “I’ve been to millions of these. After all, the money goes to the police association.”

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“Firefighter,” Adam corrected, looking at his ticket. “What?” “This dance supports firefighters.” “Whatever.” Ben looked squarely at Adam. “What’s the problem? You wanted to come just a few minutes ago.” Adam shrugged. He wasn’t sure what he wanted. He had been doing just fine at the corner bar with his brother when Ben had heard rumors about Marianne’s bachelorette party. Ben was furious. He’d thought there were no plans for such a wild event. After hearing about the hire of a stripper, Ben went ballistic. So Ben decided to crash the party. At first Adam tried to talk him out of it. Somehow he wound up driving his little brother to the chicken and beer dance instead. Adam wanted to believe he was here to maintain the peace. Deep down he knew he wanted an excuse to see Elizabeth. His chest constricted as her image flickered in his mind. Their lovemaking had to be one of the most amazing, sensual, erotic experiences of his life. He’d had a feeling their union would be explosive, yet he’d been unprepared to handle the sheer force of her passion. Maybe she had sensed how overwhelmed he was afterwards. Maybe she didn’t want to deal with him cuddling and getting all mushy. After all, she wasn’t the cuddling type. Adam thought he showed considerable restraint when all he wanted to do was hold her close, skin to skin. He hadn’t understood her attitude when Daryl had showed up. Sure, she might have been embarrassed about the police dropping by, but she’d acted uncomfortable about the whole situation. Which was weird, considering she was the one who’d wanted it, started it. Which he loved. Which he’d dreamt about for the past two weeks. Women. Adam shook his head. He’d never understand them. “Hey, there’s Elizabeth,” Ben said, pointing to the crowded dance floor. “Marianne can’t be far behind.” Adam searched the area where Ben indicated. The dance floor? His brother had to be mistaken. Elizabeth didn’t dance. He’d dragged her out onto the dance floor last time—wait a minute!

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He stared in disbelief as Elizabeth sashayed around the floor with her partner. Adam’s midsection clenched as he watched her. Her faded jeans clung lovingly to every curve. Her yellow-cropped sweater gave a glimpse of her milky white stomach. Elizabeth’s dance partner seemed to like the cropped sweater. Too much. His hand rested right on her waist, his splayed fingers digging slightly into her smooth skin. A growl escaped from Adam’s throat. Why was she dancing with the man? Why was she dancing at all? She looked like she was enjoying herself. Elizabeth tilted her face up to her partner and smiled widely. The smile transformed her pretty face into pure beauty. Adam wished he was her two-step partner. Two-step? Adam’s eyes narrowed. Two-step! He’d walked through the moves with her just a month ago. Now she was using her expertise on another man. No way. Uh-uh. He wasn’t going to tolerate this. Adam surged forward, ready to disrupt the dance. He halted. What was he doing? Crashing onto the floor and throwing Elizabeth over his shoulder was a crazy idea. He was crazy…crazy with jealousy. Adam silently watched Elizabeth twirl around as he wrestled with the foreign, strange feeling. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt the bitterness eat his stomach like acid. It felt like it was spreading, weakening his mind and body. He hated the feeling. It couldn’t be willed away. What should he do? Staring at Elizabeth like a lovesick teenager wasn’t going to make him feel better. Lovesick. The term settled in his mind like a lead balloon. Lovesick. That couldn’t be right. He felt sick, but love wasn’t the culprit. Was it? Adam wanted to disregard the question. He wanted to walk away from the possibility. Ignore the sight of Elizabeth in the arms of another. Pretend this evening had never happened. The question nagged him like a shrewish wife. Is what he felt for Elizabeth love? Was he in love? Why wasn’t he breaking into a sweat over the idea? Okay, he thought. Let’s be rational. Let’s not panic. Sure, he found her the most fascinating woman he’d ever met. The sexiest, the most infuriating, the most beautiful, and the most fun. So what if he enjoyed her company, wished he could talk and make love to her all night, and wake up with her by his side? Hell. Adam felt light-headed. He was in love with Elizabeth.

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Great. Just great. Adam refrained from pacing. He was in love with the most frustrating feminist in town. This had to be one big cosmic joke. So why wasn’t he laughing? Was it because he knew Elizabeth didn’t want a relationship? Or was it because he wanted more than a few stolen moments in his truck and Elizabeth preferred even less than that? Or could it be because he knew Elizabeth wasn’t in love with him? One thing he knew for sure. He wasn’t cut out for unrequited love. He had two choices. He could either avoid Elizabeth or he could stick to her like glue until she realized what a great guy he was. The plans were risky. Both could blow up in his face. All of his options were painful. But the glue idea would still bring him pleasure. Adam’s eyes lit up as he thought of the endless possibilities. Yep. The glue plan wins. The plan would start immediately. First step was to get rid of Twinkle-toes. Nothing obvious. Something that made Adam look good. Better than the other men. All the other men. Adam searched the hall for inspiration. His sight rested on the band. Perfect. Adam smiled wickedly and walked toward the small stage. Elizabeth won’t know what hit her. ***** The music ended in a flourish. Everyone stopped and clapped. The band started an old favorite. Individuals groaned and slowly got off the floor as couples cuddled closer. Elizabeth’s dance partner held his arms out. “Another dance?” She wrinkled her nose as she heard the opening verse of Tammy Wynette’s Stand By Your Man. “No, that’s okay. Let’s sit this one out.” She started walking off the floor when long fingers encircled her wrist. “Hey, princess.” Elizabeth’s heart thumped at the sound of Adam’s husky voice. “This is our song.” Elizabeth was speechless as he gathered her into his arms. She stared into his handsome face. His dark gold hair was longer, his tanned skin was now bronze. His twinkling blue eyes and sly smile were exactly the way she remembered. “Our song?” she asked as her feet copied his sliding steps. She wanted to stand still but didn’t relish the idea of being dragged across the floor. “When was this decided?”

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“Just now.” “I see.” Her blood was already heated to the simmering point. She knew her reaction wasn’t from anger or frustration. It was from seeing Adam again. She inhaled his clean, soapy scent. His nearness made her heart pound a triple beat. The touch of his warm skin made her nerves jump. His sole attention on her face made Elizabeth tremble slightly. “Doesn’t it take two votes to decide on ‘our song’?” she asked. “You were unavailable for consultation. I had to make an executive decision.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “I hate this song.” “Lighten up.” He gathered her closer. Elizabeth felt warm all over. “And haven’t you listened to the lyrics?” she complained. “Besides the message, which is pathetic, backwards, unequal—” “Your point was?” Adam interrupted. “The title is Stand By Your Man.” “Uh-huh.” Was the man dense? “Emphasis on ‘your’.” “Yeah, I caught that.” “So are you saying that you are my man?” His blazing eyes looked directly into hers. “Yeah.” “What?” Her heartbeat galloped. She hadn’t been expecting that answer. Not by a long shot. There had to be a trick somewhere. “I didn’t ask you to be my man.” Adam shrugged. “Too bad. You got me.” “I want a refund.” “Nope.” “How ‘bout an exchange?” His face tightened with control. “Absolutely not.” “What did I do to deserve this?” Her mouth closed with a snap. “Never mind. I think I know the answer.” Adam chuckled but said nothing. “Does this mean you belong to every woman you have sex with?” Elizabeth asked sweetly. She hated the idea of him with another woman. It made her feel sick. She couldn’t

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understand why she was bringing it up. Why was she trying to put some distance between them? Why couldn’t she enjoy his meaningless words? She should revel in his flirtation while it lasted. “All three hundred of them?” Adam teased. “No, I belong to just you.” “Why me? I don’t want you to be my man anymore than—hey! Okay. Now I get it. For you to be my man, I have to be your woman, right? Very tricky.” “No, it doesn’t work that way. Unfortunately. You can’t be my woman unless you want to be.” Elizabeth’s eyes squinted with suspicion. “You’re making this up as you go along, aren’t you?” Adam smiled broadly. “Maybe, but those are the rules.” “Is that right? What does this ‘your man’ business mean, anyway? Are you mine to command?” “No.” His tone was definite. She pouted playfully. “Be at my beck and call?” “It means that I’m there for you.” Elizabeth instinctively looked away. Her heart swelled painfully at his words. They weren’t a declaration of love or a proposal of marriage, but his promise of support meant everything to her. Why was he doing this? She hadn’t asked anything from him. Why did he make this statement freely? A thought occurred to her. “I’m not pregnant,” she said, watching their feet. Adam was silent for a moment. “I didn’t ask if you were.” “Well, I’m not.” She looked at his chin. “I’m sorry I made you worry about that. I never have been irresponsible like that before.” “It was both our responsibility,” Elizabeth declared. “It’s not like you have to take care of me with everything.” “I’ll be more responsible next time. I promise.” She glanced into his blue eyes. She wanted to swear it wasn’t going to happen again, but who was she kidding?

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“We’ll both be responsible next time,” Elizabeth decided. She smiled when she saw the hopeful gleam shine in Adam’s eyes. “But first let’s get these rules straight. The ones about you being my man.” “Gawd.” Adam made a face. “You and your rules.” “I’ll keep it simple. That way you’ll remember them.” They slowed down as the band sang the last verse. “Rules. Give me a break. Rules are meant to be broken.” “Wait right here.” She pulled away from his arms and hurried to the band. After a brief discussion with the lead singer, Elizabeth walked back to Adam and resumed the two-step position. “What’s going on?” he asked. “You’ll see.” The intro to Shaina Twain’s Any Man of Mine began. Adam’s eyebrows shot up. “I don’t think so.” “Sorry, those are the rules.” Adam swung her around the floor as he listened to the lyrics. “You want me to tease you and please you? I definitely can do that.” “Wait a second. We might be having different interpretations of the song. My interpretation overrules yours.” “What’s to interpret?” Adam looked over Elizabeth’s shoulder and frowned. “What is it?” Elizabeth turned and saw Marianne standing tense, her arms folded across her chest. Ben stood in front of Marianne, gesturing with his arms as he tried to make his point. “What’s Ben doing here? I thought he had plans to...” It was like a light bulb went on over her head. “Are you here with Ben?” “Uh, not really. Define ‘with’.” Elizabeth pulled away from Adam. “Are you crashing the bachelorette party?” She was incredulous. She thought Adam was above that. “Oh, is there a bachelorette party?” he asked. “Weak save.” Elizabeth left the dance floor and headed for Marianne. “I should have known this was no coincidence.” She had wanted to think Adam had searched her out because he wanted her company. Now it seemed he just wanted to get her out of the way so Ben could gang

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up on Marianne. If Adam hadn’t been sincere about the whole ‘your man’ discussion, she would think it was another delay tactic. “Wait.” Adam grabbed her arm and stopped her. “Don’t go barreling in there.” “Why not?” “Ben is already blaming you for the party.” “Then he shouldn’t be yelling at Marianne about it.” “If you go in there right now, Marianne will either defend you or Ben. I don’t think she should be put into that position.” Elizabeth hesitated. She wanted to defend Marianne, but her interference would only cause more problems. “You’re right,” she grudgingly agreed. She willed her body to relax and turned away so she couldn’t watch the argument. “When did you get so smart?” “I’ve always been this smart. You just never noticed.” Adam linked his arm around her waist. His warm hand grazed her exposed back. Elizabeth tried to ignore the tingling of her skin. “Never mind.” She shifted her weight on another foot. “So am I supposed to just stand here until Ben storms out?” “You can tell me what you’ve been doing since I saw you last.” “You don’t want to know.” “If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have suggested it.” “You don’t know what you’re asking.” Elizabeth shrugged. “I’m doing poorly in school and I got passed up for a promotion.” “Oh, I’m sorry, princess.” Adam’s arm traveled up to her shoulder and he gave her a brief, comforting hug. “I know that promotion was important to you.” Elizabeth shrugged. “Yeah. Well. No crying about it now. Even if Carolyn now has authority over me.” She made a face. “You know, getting passed up for a promotion is probably a good thing.” “How do you figure that?” “Now you can devote more energy on school. A job with more responsibility would have caused you problems.” “True, but...”

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“Carolyn’s goals are probably administration. Her next move would be office manager. If you had the assistant job right now, you’d be focusing on the manager job and not on your real dream.” “I never considered it that way, but you’re right. I would work for the manager job even though it’s not my ultimate ambition.” “Also, don’t worry too much about school. You’ll have more time to study after the wedding. And you’ll have until December to raise your grades.” The tension in her stomach loosened and uncoiled. “You’re probably right. That makes me feel a little bit better.” Adam’s smile transformed his face. It softened the angles and brightened his eyes. “Good.” Elizabeth wanted to know what Adam had been doing the last two weeks when Jackie approached them. “We’ve got trouble,” she announced. She raised her eyebrows as she stared at Adam’s arm around Elizabeth’s shoulders. She surprisingly said nothing. “Marianne and Ben.” Elizabeth nodded. “I know.” “Nope.” Jackie shook her head. “Leah and Pete.” Elizabeth searched the dance floor. “Where?” “No, no, no. Not together. Leah is at the refreshment table talking to someone. Pete just came in with a date.” Jackie emphasized the last three words. Elizabeth’s eyes widened with surprise. “Really?” Someone crashed into her from behind. She would have collapsed to the floor but Adam’s arm tightened around her shoulder. He gathered her closer to his body, absorbing the unexpected force. “Yep,” Jackie continued. “And guess who the date is? Lisa Jurgen.” Elizabeth groaned. Of all the women Pete had to date, why did he have to choose MissBetter-Than-Perfect? “Has Leah seen them?” “If she had, she would be locked in the bathroom,” Jackie said. “Okay, let’s do this. I’ll tell Marianne we’re leaving and why. You get Leah and escort her out. Use some finesse.” “Hey, I’m a pro at this sort of thing, thank you very much. Leah just needs to act indifferent with Pete. She doesn’t seek him out or ignore him. She just gives a friendly smile and wave as she walks out the door with her dignity.”

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“Perfect,” Elizabeth approved. “I’ll go start the get-away car.” “Your Gremlin?” Adam asked once Jackie left. “Don’t knock it.” “It doesn’t need any more knocks. Maybe I should see how it’s doing.” “Don’t even think about it. My car runs fine. And no following me.” “But we had so much fun the last time I followed you.” Elizabeth willed herself not to blush, but her face turned crimson anyway. “What’s this? The princess knows how to blush?” “Shut up. I don’t want you guys crashing our party.” “Isn’t it already breaking up?” “No way. This is just one of the many stops. Next is the strip joint.” Adam’s mouth fell open. “You’re going to that dump? In that part of town? You can’t go there. Not in that car.” “I have to. I already lined up Turbo to do a private dance for Marianne.” “Excuse me? Turbo?” “I have to go.” Elizabeth hurried away. “The party is already out the door. Bye!” She waved and tried to quash the guilty feeling inside. She didn’t like dangling red herrings in front of Adam. Elizabeth hoped he wouldn’t check out the strip joint. She wouldn’t want to know how he felt about her trick.

Chapter Eleven “I now pronounce you husband and wife,” the minister said in a booming voice. “You may now kiss the bride.” Adam’s eyes widened with shock. That’s it? It’s over already? He fought the instinct to check his watch. Instead he waited for his cue as Ben and Marianne kissed. The recessional hymn played and the beaming couple walked down the aisle. Adam stepped forward and offered his arm to Marianne’s sister who acted as maid of honor.

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Six months of preparation for a wedding that lasted twenty minutes. Adam wanted to shake his head at the inefficiency. Am I the only one who sees it this way? No. One other person would agree with me. His gaze flickered to the bride’s side of the congregation. Elizabeth sat with her friends watching the newlyweds. She turned slightly and her gaze connected to his. Much to his amazement, her eyes were misty with emotion. Well, why not? She just attended her best friend’s wedding. He felt a little sad watching his brother get married. Nothing would be the same. He had every right to feel down. And envious. There. He admitted it. He was envious of Ben. Adam used to ridicule the very idea of marriage. Now he had a better understanding of why people wanted marriage. He could empathize with the need to join with a loved one and share a future. “Okay, everyone,” Marianne said in the church’s foyer. “Places, places.” She grasped Adam’s shoulders and placed him next to his father. Adam had a hundred jokes about bossy wives. They were all clamoring in his brain. For some reason, he didn’t use one. “Congratulations, Marianne.” He leaned down and kissed her cheek. She looked a bit confused before a beautiful smile adorned her face. “Thank you, Adam.” She hurried back in line as the crowd of well-wishers poured into the entry hall. One of the first in line was Elizabeth. Adam kept stealing glances as he shook hands with the other guests. His heart started pounding as she worked her way down the receiving line. She was breathtaking. Elizabeth wore a burgundy dress he hadn’t seen her in before. The narrow long sleeves and softly flared skirt accentuated her slight curves. Her brown hair swung freely around her exquisite face. She tucked a tendril of hair behind an ear. Delicate pearl earrings gleamed under the church’s lights. She was the ideal image of femininity. Adam liked this look of hers. He also liked the dark business attire, the cropped sweaters and the cut-off jeans. They all represented a facet of her complex personality. “Hello, Adam.” Elizabeth stood before him. “It’s good to see you again.” “Don’t I get a congratulatory kiss?” he asked playfully. “For being the best man? Surely the honor of the job is enough for you.” “A kiss would be a great bonus.”

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Elizabeth smiled. “Well…your job of best man isn’t over yet. Maybe later. I’ll see you at the reception.” She gave a half-hearted wave and sauntered off. Adam watched her step out of the building. Her teasing words and actions were pure torture. Ever since he’d declared he was hers, Adam was bombarded with mixed signals. She was playful at the rehearsal last night, but then drew back. At the rehearsal dinner she treated him as if he was the only person she wanted to talk to. Adam constantly forgot they were there for Ben and Marianne. He was having too much fun being with Elizabeth. But did Elizabeth feel the same? He thought she did until she’d disappeared into the night without a goodbye. Now she was promising a kiss and time together at the reception? What was going on? He felt like he was trapped in that country song One Step Forward and Two Steps Back. He was getting frustrated with this plan of his. This plan to start a relationship of any kind. He’d thought by making the first move she would relax and feel more comfortable about the idea. Instead it made her more suspicious. Adam knew his patience was almost at breaking point. He had to make his move tonight. She could dance all around him with come-hither and stand-back looks. He’ll wait until she tires herself out. Then he would seize the opportunity to make her his woman. ***** “All right ladies.” The smooth voice of the DJ captured everyone’s attention in the hotel’s reception room. “It’s time to catch the bouquet.” Jackie squealed with delight and bolted from the table. Leah rose from her seat. Elizabeth groaned and covered her face with her hands. She hated this ritual. It made all the women look desperate to get married. “C’mon, Elizabeth,” Leah said. “All single women front and center.” “I should have seen this coming.” Elizabeth shook her head. “Almost makes you wish you were married, huh?” Leah asked, walking behind Elizabeth’s chair and dragging it back. “Ha. Ha.” Elizabeth dropped her hands from her face. “You know, I really need—” “You do not need to use the bathroom,” Leah said. She assisted the reluctant Elizabeth from her seat.

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“How did you know what I was going to say?” “You’re always in the bathroom during the bouquet toss,” Leah replied. “Marianne gave us strict instructions to get you on the floor this time.” “She better not aim it at me,” Elizabeth grumbled as she approached the floor as graciously as possible. “If she does,” Leah said, “you’re main worry will be Jackie tackling you.” Jackie. Elizabeth breathed a sigh of relief. Marianne knew how important this ritual was to Jackie. She would aim for Jackie. Although Marianne’s pitching arm was weak… “Heads up!” Leah yelled. Elizabeth glanced up and saw the bouquet sailing in the air, arcing over the crowd of women and straight at her. No way am I catching this. She tried to step back but a group of women behind her surged forward. Elizabeth tried to prevent the catch by folding her arms across her chest. She smiled, pleased by her own cleverness. The bouquet bounced off a woman’s hand and landed in the crook of Elizabeth’s arm. Elizabeth stared at the vibrant flowers with disbelief. She closed her eyes in protest. “Oh, hell.” ***** Adam watched the bouquet toss with keen interest. He was pleased to see Elizabeth join the crowd of single women. Then he noticed her lack of participation. He would have laughed at her disgusted expression when she caught the bouquet, but her reaction was a clear indication of how she felt. It was obvious she was still adamantly opposed to relationships, men, and marriage. Why had he thought otherwise? She’d never said anything to disprove her earlier convictions. She may enjoy teasing, sparring, and making love to him, but it didn’t mean she wanted to be with a man or have a relationship with one. “It’s time now for the garter toss.” The DJ’s voice scraped his raw nerves. “All single men please come to the floor.” Adam hesitated. A part of him wanted to wrestle the garter belt from all eligible men. If he caught the belt, it gave him the chance to place it on Elizabeth’s leg. According to custom, the

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higher the garter belt goes on her leg, the longer the newlyweds will enjoy a happy marriage. Adam was tempted to join the growing crowd of single men. He glanced at Elizabeth. She was frowning at the bouquet clasped in her hands. Shaking his head, Adam turned his heel and walked out of the reception hall and into the adjoining bar. He continued walking until he was outside in the parking lot. Why did he think he could change her mind? Why did he want to? What did he really want from her? He had no idea what to do now. Should he persevere or accept his failure? He hated the idea of quitting on Elizabeth, but what else could he do? Stick with it. The advice whispered to his troubled mind. Why should he stick with it? He would have an easier time butting his head against a brick wall. Stick with it. The advice repeated but it sounded stronger and louder. It was the same advice he heard when times were tough with his lawn care service. When he couldn’t get a loan approved or enough homeowners to hire him. But those times were different. He knew if he persevered he would succeed. But there were no guarantees of a committed relationship with Elizabeth if he continued with his plan. What if he was going about it the wrong way? What if he should ignore her, play hard to get? Nah, Adam decided. He didn’t like games like that. He wanted to show her how he felt. He needed to prove that a relationship with him was worth the risk and effort. Standing alone in a parking lot wasn’t going to prove anything. Other than he can sulk like a toddler, which probably wasn’t very attractive. Adam pivoted and marched through the hotel’s front entrance, prepared to win over Elizabeth no matter how long it took. ***** Elizabeth couldn’t find Adam anywhere. She peeked over her dance partner’s shoulder and scanned the dark reception room. Where could he be? Hopefully not with Marie. Elizabeth frowned at the thought. The maid of honor was obviously interested in Adam. Marie was also tipsy and well on her way to getting drunk. Elizabeth started glancing around for Marie. What am I doing? Elizabeth wondered. Did she really think Adam was going to accept a come-on from a drunk? Even if Marie were stone cold sober Adam wouldn’t be interested.

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Elizabeth stood straight, almost knocking her dance partner’s chin. She had no reason to be jealous. Adam never gave her cause. The entire six months she’s known him she’d never heard about or seen him with another woman. All she knew about was his reputation, but his actions were anything but unchivalrous. Why hadn’t she realized that before? Or had she always known but never wanted to think about it? Did she want to believe he was a skirt-chaser? Was she preparing herself for disappointment so she could walk away from this flirtation with her heart unscathed? Elizabeth sighed. This was all so confusing. “What’s wrong, babe?” her dance partner asked, blowing in her ear. Elizabeth swatted him away as if he was an annoying mosquito. “Don’t ‘babe’ me,” Elizabeth ordered. She tried to get some distance between them. The man had squeezed her close while she was distracted. Why had she accepted this dance with him? Because he’d caught the garter and had to put it on her leg, she reminded herself. She thought she was following good etiquette by dancing with him afterwards. She should have followed her instinct and left. Elizabeth’s lips compressed as the man’s hands blatantly roamed around her back. “Listen, Kip, Skip, Tripp, whatever your name is…” “Chip.” “Just because you caught the garter and put it on my leg doesn’t mean you have unlimited access to my body.” “Ooh.” Chip’s eyes lightened up. “You’re a fiery one, aren’t you? I love my women that way.” Elizabeth rolled her eyes. “Please! You’re grateful if you get a woman who’s breathing.” She pushed against his chest again. “And I am not your woman.” Chip leered at her. “You don’t know what you’re missing.” “You’re going to be missing two front teeth if you don’t let go of me this instant.” Chip chuckled. “Right.” Elizabeth glared at him. She was quickly losing control of her temper. “I am not your woman. I belong to someone else.”

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If Chip hadn’t been holding her up she would have collapsed to the floor. Did those words really come from her mouth? She meant to say she wasn’t anyone’s woman. What did she really mean and believe? “Yeah, right.” Chip swiveled his hip and grounded his body into hers in a dirty dancing move. Elizabeth tried to crush his instep with her heel but he moved too fast. Must get a lot of women trying that attack. “May I cut in?” Elizabeth breathed an audible sigh of relief when she heard Adam’s voice. She turned to him and smiled. Her happiness dimmed as she saw his face. His eyes glittered angrily. His body radiated with dark intensity. Chip dropped his hold on Elizabeth. “Oh, you’re the guy.” He took a few short steps back. “Sorry, man. I’m never one to trespass.” Chip turned and collided into another couple. He sidestepped them and hurried away, never looking back. “Thanks, Adam,” Elizabeth said. “The guy was a total jerk.” Adam’s arms encircled her waist. His hands rested on the small of her back. “You really need self-defense classes,” he said, his voice as tense as his body. Elizabeth placed her palms on his shoulders and leaned into him. Her heart thudded heavily as she inhaled his clean scent. She laid her head on his chest. His touch stirred a wanting deep inside her. Her body felt warm in his loose embrace as they swayed to the love ballad. She felt at home in his arms. There was a rightness to it. She knew this is where she wanted to be. Elizabeth didn’t want to fight the contentment seeping through her bones. She smiled dreamily as she felt Adam slowly relax. Elizabeth snuggled deeper. “What did he mean by ‘that guy’?” Elizabeth’s eyes were wide open. “Huh?” she asked, stalling for time. “And that whole bit about trespassing? What was he trying to trespass?” “Oh, don’t mind him. He’s had too much to drink.” The music switched to a disco version of the same song. More wedding guests got onto the floor and moved to the upbeat tune. Elizabeth moved her hands away from his shoulders. “Princess?” His hands tightened around her. “Sorry, Adam. I don’t do the Bus Stop.” She tried to break from his embrace, but his hold remained firm. “I really need those defense classes,” she muttered.

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“Why did that guy think you were my property?” “Because he’s a redneck who thinks women are meant to be a man’s slave and plaything.” “Don’t you believe all men are like that?” Elizabeth gasped loudly. “Of course not.” She felt her face turning red. “Well, I may have thought that a while back, but…I was wrong.” “Wrong?” Adam did a double take. “Did you admit to being wrong? Excuse me as I keel over with shock.” “Very funny. And wipe that smug look off your face.” “Hey, Adam!” The bubbly maid of honor appeared next to them. "Come on and dance with me.” She bumped her hip against his. Annoyance flashed through Elizabeth. She was tired of these women drooling over Adam. Elizabeth was torn between amusement and irritation as she watched the women compete for his attention. So why don’t I do something about it? I should take the risk and let everyone know how I feel about Adam. It may make me vulnerable, but my life is much brighter with him around. I want him in my life in any way I can. If I keep pushing him away, I’ll push him too far. “Marie, back off,” Elizabeth said before Adam could decline the invitation. “Excuse me?” Marie quickly developed an attitude. “Get your claws out of my man.” “Your man?” Marie looked at Adam for confirmation. Adam was staring at Elizabeth with blazing eyes. “Yep.” Elizabeth met his look with her own steady gaze. “My man.” “Oh. Okay.” Marie slinked away. “Sorry.” “You finally accepted it, huh? Or was it just to get Marie to leave?” Elizabeth felt a pang of hurt at the question. “I’ve always accepted it. It just took a while for me to decide that I wanted it.” She felt his hands tighten on her spine. It gave her the shot of courage to go on. “And, yes, I did tell Chip I was your woman. Not to get him off me. To let him know he was wasting his time.” Adam swallowed visibly. “Am I to understand that you told Chip before you told me?” “Okay, so I messed up on that. I’m new at this.”

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Adam leaned down. “You’re forgiven.” He brushed his mouth against hers. The kiss was full of promise and anticipation. Adam pulled away and caressed her cheek with his lips. “What are your plans for tonight?” Elizabeth’s body hummed with excitement. “What do you have in mind?” “You. Me. My hotel room. All night. All morning.” “Mmm.” Elizabeth could barely breathe as her heart pounded against her rib cage. “Sounds wonderful.” “And you still owe me a kiss,” he reminded her. “Yes, once you finish your best man duties,” Elizabeth said with a smile. Adam frowned. “I am finished. Aren’t I?” Elizabeth shook her head. “Not by a long shot.” “What more is there to do? I did everything I was supposed to at the church. I gave the toast and danced with the family members. How could there be any more?” “Aren’t you in charge of his honeymoon tickets?” Adam leaned his head back. “Yes. I forgot all about it. I need to make sure he gets those before tomorrow.” “Mm-hmm.” “Come with me,” he suggested. “This shouldn’t take long.” He wrapped his long fingers around her wrists. “You go on ahead. I need to say my good-byes.” “All right. Where should I meet up with you?” “Hotel lobby,” she decided. “Ten minutes.” “Okay. Don’t be late.” He raised her hand and kissed her knuckles. Elizabeth felt her cheeks turn a bright pink. “Promise.” ***** Fifteen minutes later Elizabeth was running around the newlyweds’ hotel room like a maniac. “Shoot, shoot, shoot, shoot, shoot,” she chanted as she ripped open the cardboard box of cereal and yanked out the plastic inner bag. She began squeezing the cereal inside.

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She miscalculated how long it was going to take to set up the practical jokes for the honeymooners. The crumbs-in-the-bed trick was the last thing to do and then she would make a mad dash to the hotel lobby. The cereal was a good mixture of fragments and dust. She pulled open the bag and whipped the bedcovers down. Sprinkling the crumbs over the entire bed, Elizabeth pulled the blanket and sheets back to their original pristine look. Elizabeth crumpled the box and threw it in the wastebasket. She hid the basket under the desk and surveyed the room. Everything looked perfect. There wasn’t a hint of the pranks lurking underneath the normal façade. “How did you get in here?” Elizabeth whirled around, a scream sticking in her throat. She saw Adam leaning against the doorframe, looking gorgeous in his tuxedo. “Adam! You scared me.” “You haven’t answered.” “Does it matter how I got in here?” “You’re right. I should be asking why you’re in here.” “I’m just checking that everything is perfect for Marianne.” “Define ‘perfect’.” The man knew her too well. “I told you I was going to meet you in the lobby. Did you think I wasn’t going to show up?” “It did cross my mind, but then I remembered your inability to do things on time.” “And that requires you to search the hotel?” “Considering your reputation, I figured out where you probably were.” “I don’t know what you’re talking about. We should leave before Marianne and Ben show up. I’m sure they don’t want an audience.” “Neither do I,” Adam said. He straightened from the door and approached Elizabeth. The focused look on his face made her back up. She bumped her leg against the bed. She lost her balance and sat on the bedspread with a loud crunch. Adam smiled. “I thought so.” He leaned down and hovered over Elizabeth. “We can’t do it here! This is the honeymoon suite.”

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“And the bed would be more uncomfortable than my truck.” Adam hooked his arm under her legs and shoulders. He lifted Elizabeth and cradled her close to his chest. “My room is down the hall.” “I can walk, you know.” “I know.” He walked out the room, pausing for a moment to close and the door. He continued his way down to his room. “Put me down.” “No. You keep squirming like that and I’ll drop you.” “All the more reason to put me down.” Adam stopped and looked down at her face. He lowered his head and kissed her thoroughly. “I’m in charge this time, so just sit back and enjoy.” Her stomach leapt at his words. Her skin tingled and the inside of her body turned to pudding. “Oh, my,” she whispered. She could hardly wait.

Chapter Twelve Adam didn’t turn on the lights after closing the door to his hotel room. Elizabeth couldn’t see anything. She heard his steady breath. She smelled a hint of his soap intermixed with her Liz Claiborne perfume. The soft whisper of his jacket accompanied his movements as he strode to the bed. Elizabeth half-expected him to drop her on the mattress but he lowered her gently. She reached up and grabbed his jacket lapels, pulling him down on top of her. Adam rested his arms on either side of her. He placed most of his weight on his elbows while his groin leaned into her pelvis. “I’m in charge, remember?” he asked, brushing his lips across her temple. “Did you really think I was going to give you control?” “Give?” His voice was low and husky. “Princess, just lay back and let me do the giving.” His mouth dipped to her cheek.

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“Hmm.” Elizabeth wiggled slightly as the words excited her. “I like the sound of that.” Adam slid his lips to hers. He kissed her gently, exploring the softness of her mouth. He deepened the kiss, devouring her mouth with an insatiable hunger. Adam broke away, leaving her gasping for breath. Elizabeth sought blindly for his face and kissed him passionately. She allowed her hands to fall onto his shoulders. Her fingers hooked his collar. She pulled. She heard his jacket slide. Adam pulled away from her and shrugged off the jacket. Elizabeth could see a haze of white that she assumed was his shirt. “Turn on the lights,” she requested. She felt Adam move forward and heard the click. The lamp on the bedside table washed the room with a glaring light. Elizabeth blinked several times and squinted. Her eyes widened as she watched Adam over her. He proceeded to remove his black tie. “Let me help,” Elizabeth offered. She sat up and curled her legs out from under him. She got into a kneeling position and inched closer to Adam. Elizabeth placed her hands at the top button. She released the button from the slit and exposed his bronze skin. Elizabeth wet her mouth with a swipe of her tongue. She then placed her moist mouth on his warm skin. Adam inhaled sharply. She smiled against him and licked the hollow of his collarbone. Adam’s hands curled around the back of her neck. His long fingers twisted and tangled into her hair. His wrist bumped against the tab of her back zipper. Adam caressed her nape with one hand, circling around the neckline and slowly unzipped her dress. Elizabeth had already trailed her mouth down his chest. His white tuxedo shirt gaped open and she slid her hands inside. The sight of his naked chest made her heart flutter. Smooth and muscular with a sprinkling of dark gold hair. Elizabeth wanted to see more. She yanked the shirttails away from his waistband and shoved the sleeves down past his shoulders. The shirt got stuck at his elbows. Elizabeth pulled at the sleeves. They lowered a fraction of an inch. “Straighten your arms,” she whispered. Her voice seemed loud in the silent room. “I should be the one giving orders,” Adam murmured against the spot behind her ear. She shivered as his breath teased the sensitive area. Elizabeth gasped with surprise as Adam peeled her dress away from her body, dropping the burgundy fabric into a pool around her waist. “You’re sneaky,” she breathed out, arching her back as his hand glided up her spine.

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“I’ll take that as a compliment.” He nibbled around her earring and delved his tongue into her ear. Elizabeth stifled a yelp. “You’re very sensitive there,” Adam commented. “Let’s find out where else.” His splayed fingers toyed with the bottom edge of her burgundy satin bra. “How did you know burgundy was my favorite color?” Elizabeth smiled. “You are so full of it.” She was thrilled at the frank look he gave her lingerie. She’d bought it at Victoria’s Secret on a wild and stupid impulse, fantasizing that he would see her in it. “Well,” he drawled in her ear, “after seeing it displayed so beautifully, burgundy has become my favorite color.” His finger followed the top line of her brassiere until it reached the front closure clasp. Elizabeth glanced down. His skin looked so dark against her paleness. Adam’s hand appeared powerfully masculine next to her feminine curves encased in the delicate lingerie. She held her breath as he unhooked her bra. The satiny fabric fell away and exposed her aroused breasts. Elizabeth was torn between pressing them against his naked chest or offering them to his knowing hands. She watched as he removed the bra and tossed it onto the floor. She glanced up into his face. He seemed mesmerized. The idea was a little frightening. Encouraging but frightening. Adam pulled off his shirt and threw it down. It slipped off the corner of the bed and joined the discarded bra. “You are so beautiful.” The words were almost trance-like. Elizabeth wasn’t sure how to reply. She leaned forward and kissed his mouth. It was like placing a lit match to gasoline. Adam returned the kiss fiercely. Elizabeth bunched her hands into his hair as his hands roughly covered her breasts. She moaned with delight as he squeezed and massaged, stroked and rubbed. Her moan transformed into a squeal of surprise as her head hit a pillow. She opened her eyes and found herself flat on her back with Adam on top of her. She smiled. Just where she wanted to be. Adam’s mouth placed kisses down her throat and chest before seeking out the peaks of her breasts. He lightly bit a nipple. It sent shockwaves through Elizabeth. “Oh my G—” She

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never completed the thought as he soothed the bite with his tongue before sucking the sting away. Elizabeth’s hands fell from his hair and were firmly clenched onto his bare shoulders. Adam didn’t care about the marks she was leaving on his skin. He slid his fingers around the dress at her waist and pulled the garment down her rotating hips and off her shuddering body. Elizabeth was vaguely aware of the removal of her dress and shoes. She wrapped her legs around his hips when he ripped off her pantyhose. Her breath hitched in her throat as his fingers skimmed her burgundy panties. His mouth left her breast. She whimpered at the loss. “Please,” she begged, not caring how she sounded. He scattered kisses down her stomach. She jumped when he gave a wicked lick to her navel. Elizabeth clasped her hands against his head, trying to maneuver him back to her aching breasts. He caught her waistband with his teeth. “Adam!” she exclaimed in a shocked whisper. He inched lower, dragging her panties down. Elizabeth raised her hips as the last bit of her clothing slid down her thighs. Adam grabbed the panties with his hand and removed them from her legs. “Adam, get back up here,” Elizabeth demanded. She was uncomfortable with the position of his handsome face between her legs. It left her feeling vulnerable and exposed. “No.” Elizabeth tried to scoot back and sit up. Adam reached out with a firm hand and laid it upon her stomach. “Stay,” he ordered. Much to her surprise, she did just that. Adam turned his attention to her inner thighs. He placed light kisses on her soft skin, teasing her senses until she wrapped her legs around his broad shoulders. “Please, Adam,” she cried out. “Please.” Adam continued leaving kisses around her pulsing core. He stroked her with a finger, testing her readiness. Elizabeth sighed from the exquisite pleasure. She almost choked on the sigh as he replaced his finger with his mouth. Her hips bucked from the audacious touch. Her insides flowed like honey as Adam explored her womanhood with his mouth and tongue. The sensations swirled in her center. A tightness grabbed her chest and abdomen. “Oh, God. Oh, God.” She clenched Adam’s head and pulled him closer. “Adam!” she screamed as the

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tightness splintered inside her body. Her body tensed and then fell limp. Her legs slid off his shoulders. Elizabeth’s hands collapsed onto the bed. She felt exhausted but alive. She couldn’t move yet her body trembled with the aftershocks. “Liked that, did you?” Adam raised himself off the mattress and peered into her eyes. “I think I’m brain dead.” He laughed. “We’ve just begun,” he reminded her. His hand went to his belt buckle. He quickly unfastened his pants and shucked them off with his shoes and socks. She saw a flash of his white briefs as he took them off. Elizabeth’s eyes bulged slightly as she caught a glimpse of his aroused manhood. Adam turned away and Elizabeth heard the tell-tale rip of foil. He turned back to face her. She raised her hand and crooked her finger at him. Adam bestowed an indulgent smile. He slid on top of her, teasing her skin with his. He placed a kiss here and there, then would backtrack to kiss a neglected area. “Adam…” Elizabeth warned. She felt his lazy chuckle and he continued his path. Finally he lay on top of her. Pelvis to pelvis. Chest against breasts. Lips grazing lips. Elizabeth closed her eyes. Feelings of love flooded her body, overwhelming her. She loved him so much. She couldn’t imagine life without Adam. Elizabeth needed him like she needed the next beat of her heart. “Adam, I…I—” “Shh.” His voice vibrated against her swollen lips. “Hold me tight.” Elizabeth found the energy to link her arms around Adam’s sweaty back. Adam slid his hands under her bottom, tilting her slightly into position. She tightened her hold as he slowly entered her. She involuntarily circled her hips as he filled her. Adam groaned with pleasure. He spread her legs wider as he pulsed into her body. Elizabeth arched and bent her spine, swiveled and bucked, surged and retreated as Adam set a fast, breathtaking tempo. Elizabeth’s body prickled with arousal. It quickly ignited into an all-consuming heat. A fiery sensation rippled through her with lightning speed. Her body contracted sharply, causing Adam to pump faster. Elizabeth’s mind disintegrated into cinders as Adam yelled out his release. He collapsed on top of her moist body. Elizabeth welcomed the closeness. She snuggled deeper and closed her eyes, needing to take a few moments of rest.

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***** Elizabeth’s eyes jerked open. Where am I? She glanced around and the sexy memories came hurtling back. She looked next to her and found Adam. He slept soundly, his glorious naked body taking up most of the bed. Elizabeth smiled as she remembered how he’d made love to her last night. She wanted to wake him up with the same brand of love. Love. Her sore muscles stiffened as she stretched. Did she declare her love last night? Her tired mind sluggishly rewinded. No. She was going to, but didn’t. She needed to rectify that oversight. It would be better if she said it in the bright of day than while making love. She didn’t want him to think she was confusing the two. Her stomach suddenly felt ice-cold from nerves. Maybe it wasn’t a good idea to mention how she felt. Adam had never asked for her love. He didn’t show any signs of needing it. And just because he claimed to be “her man”, it didn’t mean he loved her. What if it was just sex to him? Her stomach churned at the thought. He hadn’t said he wanted a relationship from her. She instantly remembered the conversation he’d had with Ben at the wedding shower. “I don’t want to marry Elizabeth. I just want to sleep with her.” Elizabeth bolted off the bed. God, how could she be so stupid? She’d almost told him how she felt! What a laugh he would have gotten out of that! No, he wouldn’t laugh. That wasn’t Adam’s style. He would gloss over the uncomfortable situation and hustle her out of the room with an “I’ll call you”. She wasn’t going to let that happen. She might be a moron for loving Adam Schmidt but she still had her pride. Elizabeth sniffled back the threat of tears and got dressed with jerky, fast movements. She was struggling with the zip when Adam turned over and flopped his arm across the bed. Elizabeth held her breath and jammed her bare feet in her shoes. She quietly tiptoed to the door. What am I doing? Elizabeth hesitated. Nothing had changed from the moment she got into bed and right now. She was just nervous. Uncertain about where she stood with Adam.

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Don’t be a scaredy-cat. Elizabeth knew she wasn’t a coward. She may not be able to control the relationship, she couldn’t control Adam, but she could control her actions. She would be the confident, bold woman she wanted to be. Her ice-cold stomach flipped as she saw Adam’s hand searching the empty bed. A frown puckered his forehead. Elizabeth backed into the door. She grabbed the doorknob. Show some courage, her mind screamed. “Princess?” he called out, his voice groggy. At least he’d called out the right name, Elizabeth thought. Adam lifted his head. “Prin—” He surveyed the room and saw her open the door. “Hey, where are you going? What time is it?” She had absolutely no idea. “I-I have to go.” She cringed at her lame talk. “Oh.” He turned and squinted at the clock. “It’s five in the morning.” Ask me to come back to bed. Elizabeth willed Adam to do it. She didn’t have the courage to seductively stroll back to him. She wasn’t sure of what he wanted, what he expected. God, I’m becoming a doormat. The horrible possibility still didn’t move her feet. “I have lots to do.” Elizabeth shrugged apologetically. “Obviously.” She watched Adam’s eyes narrow. With anger? With caution? With sleep? She wasn’t sure. He almost said something, paused, and then thought better of it. If he says those three dreaded words “I’ll call you”, I will not be responsible for my actions. She opened the door and scurried out. “Bye, Adam.” She closed the door with a decisive click. ***** “Bye, Adam.” Adam clenched his steering wheel. The words still rang in his ears two weeks later. Bye. That was it! He shook his head, wishing he could shake the memory out. He’d showed his deep love for her, expressed it physically, and tried to take their relationship past the “your man, your woman” phase. And she couldn’t get out of his bed fast enough. Couldn’t even spend the night with him.

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Nothing like being kicked in the teeth. Wakes you up to the real world. Once Elizabeth walked out the door, he came crashing out of his fantasy. Why had he taken her possessive behavior and twisted it around? He’d convinced himself that she wanted a relationship with him. He halfway believed she loved him. Halfway? Okay. He had thought she loved him. What a fool he was. She never used the words love or relationship. Hadn’t said anything about the two of them getting together after the wedding. She hadn’t even returned the one call he’d made to her. He wasn’t about to try again. He’d gotten the message loud and clear. She’d just seen him as a flirtation during the wedding preparations. The wedding was over and so were they. Fine. Great. Wonderful. Would have appreciated a memo of the rules, but hey, no big deal. Adam shrugged. Not like he was heartbroken. Okay, maybe a little broken. Cracked. Split. Destroyed. Adam was tempted to pursue Elizabeth. Pursue her with a single-mindedness that would make her head spin. But what would be the point? He couldn’t make her fall in love. He couldn’t make her want marriage. Now he could throw her over his shoulder and— No. Adam wanted to whack himself in the head. He shouldn’t even think about those crazy scenarios. Especially today. Adam parked his truck across the street from Ben and Marianne’s apartment. He turned off the engine and sat quietly, gathering his jumbled thoughts. He looked at the cars lining the street. Elizabeth’s Gremlin was parked a few blocks away. Adam’s heart galloped. He took a deep breath. Ben and Marianne had just come back from their Jamaican honeymoon. They had combined their welcome home party and the opening presents get-together. Family and those who helped at the wedding would be attending. Elizabeth was inside the apartment. Adam was torn with two opposing but equally strong needs. The need to run inside and corner Elizabeth and the need to drive off.

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“You are a mature adult,” Adam reminded himself. “It’s no big deal.” He released his seat belt, opened the door and calmly walked to the apartment. Ben opened the door. A wide smile spread across his brown face. “Hey, Adam! Come on in.” “You look great, Ben. Marriage suits you.” Ben snapped his head back. “Excuse me?” Adam ignored the question. He willed himself not to ask about Elizabeth. “How was Jamaica? Did you go sailing?” “You bet. We did everything. Sailing, snorkeling, surfing...” Ben led Adam into the kitchen area. Several family members were already milling about. Adam greeted them, trying to inject some energy and enthusiasm into his voice. “I’ve got pictures,” Ben said. “We went everywhere on the island. Elizabeth has them right now. Hey! Elizabeth!” Adam’s guts twisted as he spotted Elizabeth in the living area. She sat on the sofa and turned towards Ben’s voice. Adam thought she flinched when their eyes met. He was probably wrong. “What is it, Ben?” Adam envied her cool voice. “Finish with the pictures? Adam wants to see them next.” “Yeah, sure.” Elizabeth rose from her seat. She wore a dark brown sweater that hugged her curves. Her faded jeans weren’t leaving anything to the imagination. Then again, Adam didn’t need to imagine. The vision of her naked in bed would stay with him forever. “Hi, Adam,” she said with a polite smile as she handed him the stack of photos. “Here you are.” “Thanks.” Adam stared at her, dumbfounded. Her eyes, which usually expressed vitality, humor, anger or passion were blank. She showed no emotion seeing him. Acid burned his stomach. She felt nothing. She treated him like a stranger. Polite but distant. Civil but indifferent. How could she act this way after all they’d shared? It didn’t make any sense. *****

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“Act indifferent.” Jackie’s advice at the chicken and beer dance ricocheted through Elizabeth’s head. “Don’t seek him out. Don’t avoid him. Act indifferent.” So far it was working. No one pulled her aside and asked what was her problem. No one gave her strange stares, with the exception of Adam. She must be getting the hang of this indifference act. Elizabeth wished it were easier. It drained her already low spirits. She wanted to run home and hide. Be anywhere but here, so close to Adam but unable to do anything about it. She sensed his eyes on her. Elizabeth tried not to turn to his silent command. She purposely stood away from the kitchen where he was talking to his father. She rested her shoulder on the doorframe between the living room and entry hall. She gave up her seat while Marianne opened presents. Not out of courtesy, but to give her mobility if she needed it. Realizing the man next to her was speaking, she turned to him and tried to concentrate. She remembered he was a cousin of Adam’s. He looked very similar to Adam. The same golden hair, the same arrogant jaw. He just wasn’t as gorgeous, as intriguing, or as wonderful. “Are you dating anyone?” he asked. How did the conversation get to this point? Elizabeth wondered with some alarm. She must have really drifted off. “No,” she answered, her eyes involuntarily seeking out Adam. He was staring right at her. Elizabeth nodded her head in a hopefully friendly manner before jerking her eyes back to the cousin. She swore she would act like the man in front of her was the only person in the room. “No, I’m not.” “A beautiful girl like you?” he asked, leaning forward and resting his hand on the doorframe just above her head. She wanted to fold her arms across her chest as he ogled her sweater. Deciding she could handle this without looking defensive, she smiled sweetly at him. “I just haven’t found the right man,” she lied. She had found the right man. She was just all wrong for him. “Do you know what kind of man you need?” he asked, leaning in closer until Elizabeth could smell the coffee on his breath. Elizabeth was about to tell him what he needed when she heard a savage roar from the kitchen. She jumped back, slamming into the doorframe. The party erupted into stilled silence.

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Elizabeth glanced around and found Adam stalking over to her. His eyes burned with fury, his face taut with anger. Guests quickly got out of his way as he pounced on his cousin. “Don’t ever come near her again or you will regret it.” Adam curled his hands in the man’s shirt and tossed him aside. He turned his attention on Elizabeth. “What is your problem?” Elizabeth asked. “Who do you think you are—Adam!” she screamed as he crouched down and threw her over his shoulder. Adam ignored her and walked out the front door.

Chapter Thirteen Elizabeth slapped and kicked, punched and clawed. It didn’t faze Adam one bit. “Adam Schmidt, how dare you act this way? How dare you embarrass me in front of all those people? You should be ashamed of yourself.” “If you don’t shut up, I will take you over my knee and spank you.” He wrenched open the door to his truck. Elizabeth gasped in outrage. “Don’t even think about it. Now put me down!” He surprised her by doing what she asked. He whirled her around. She clutched onto him, not quite sure which way was up. Adam stuffed her into the cab of his truck and quickly got behind the wheel. “You’ve got some nerve,” she said, yanking at the door handle. It wouldn’t budge. “You’re the one with nerve,” he shot back as his truck roared to life. “How dare you treat me with indifference.” She gave up on the locked door and folded her arms across her chest. “What kind of treatment do you expect?” Her heart raced. Her nerve endings tingled. Adam clasped her chin with his hand and made her look into his eyes. “I don’t expect you to sneak out of our bed in the middle of the night.” Elizabeth pulled away. “I did not sneak out.”

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“What do you call leaving at five in the morning?” He swerved his car away from the curb. “And don’t give me that bull about having ‘lots to do’.” “Well, what did you expect from me? You’ve made it quite plain that all you wanted was to sleep with me.” “I want a lot more from you, and you know it.” Realization flashed in his blue eyes. “You do know it.” “Keep your eyes on the road”. She quickly secured her seat belt. “And where the hell are you taking me?” “Yep.” He nodded with quiet certainty. “You do know it.” She tried to play stupid. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.” “I want something more than just sex, and you’re too afraid to give anything else.” Elizabeth huffed. “That is so untrue! I left because all you wanted was sex.” “I just told you I don’t! I would have told you if you had return my phone call.” “Let me put it to you straight.” She stared at the ceiling, refusing to look him in the eye. “As much as I enjoy being with you and as much as I care for you, I don’t want an affair.” “Good. Glad to hear it, but that isn’t what I was offering.” “If it was, I wouldn’t be accepting.” Her face burned with anger and embarrassment. “What do you want?” “For starters, I want you to stay in my bed all night.” Her head snapped to look at him. “I just told you—” “I want you to stop shrugging off what we have.” “I’m not!” She rubbed her arms. The bulky sweater stung her sensitized skin. “And I damn well expect you not to treat me like everyone else at a party and then flirt with another man!” Elizabeth’s heart tripped nervously over his angry growl. “I was not flirting. I was talking. If you are going to act this way every time I speak to a man…” “If I had my way, you wouldn’t be anywhere near another man.” Elizabeth’s eyes flashed with anger. Adam glanced her way and smiled. She hesitated and frowned. Was he trying to confuse her? Most likely. “You are in no position to tell me what I can and cannot do.” “That is about to change,” he stated with supreme arrogance.

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“Is that right? I’d like to see you try, especially with me dragging and kicking the entire way.” “You won’t be fighting it. You’ll give me the right. You’re going promise the right to me.” She looked at him as if he’d just stepped out of the funny farm. “When hell freezes over.” Adam acted as if she hadn’t spoken. “You will promise to love, honor and obey.” “Obey? Not in a million years.” “What about love and honor?” His voice was low. His words lacked the sharp edge of swaggering confidence. “Of—wait a second!” She looked at him with confusion. “What are we talking about here?” “It’s really simple, but I’ll walk you through it. Will you love and honor me?” Elizabeth chomped down on her tongue. “Maybe.” Adam raised an eyebrow. “Maybe? You can’t answer ‘maybe’.” “I just did.” “You can do better than that.” He made a sharp turn into a driveway and parked in front of a large duplex. Elizabeth barely noticed. “I’m not saying anything more unless I have a ring on my finger and a minister in front of me.” “Is that a proposal?” Adam’s eyes twinkled with amusement as he turned off the truck. “No, it’s not. You know I’m never going to marry.” “Yes you are.” He unleashed his seat belt and turned to her, his arm resting against the back of the seat and the steering wheel. “To me.” Her pulse skipped. “No I’m not.” “We’ll start with dating.” He unsnapped her seat belt. “I’ll give it a month, maybe two.” “I’d give it less than a minute.” He moved closer to her. Elizabeth didn’t back away. “Then we’ll move in with each other.” “Like I don’t have enough stress in my life?” “With the understanding that marriage will happen within the next six months.” Elizabeth started to splutter. “Why should I agree to this? Why should you?”

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Adam cupped her face with both hands. The teasing glint disappeared from his eyes. “Because I don’t want to live my life without you. I love you and want to be with you forever.” Elizabeth gulped. “Oh,” she breathed out, her heart expanding to the point of pain. “Well, why didn’t you say so?” “Why didn’t you?” “I kind of panicked at the idea.” “Yeah, I can understand that. I wasn’t exactly making it easy for you.” “I guess we both kind of messed up on that. But marriage?” She stared intently into his blue eyes. “Are you sure you want that? You said men get all the disadvantages.” “I was stupid. I was wrong.” She sighed. “So was I,” she whispered. Adam’s face brightened. “I know I should give you some time to think about this, but I don’t want you to slip through my fingers again.” “Yes.” His eyes narrowed. “Yes, what?” “To your plans. I’m in full agreement.” Her body radiated with pleasure from the excitement glimmering in Adam’s eyes. “I think our first date should start right now.” The side of his mouth kicked up. “Well, aren’t you a pushy one?” She leaned forward. “Shut up and kiss me.” “Why should I? I’m the one who bared my soul, made the first move, and came up with the plan. You should kiss me.” Elizabeth curled her arms around his shoulders and pressed her body against his. Her breasts meshed against his chest. Threading her fingers into his thick hair, she inhaled the clean scent that was distinctly Adam. She slowly closed her eyes, savoring the masculine angles of his face and the rich, golden brown tint of his skin. She brushed the firm line of his mouth with a gentle parting of her lips. Her senses focused intently on the intimate touch. Passing cars faded into a soft swoosh. The chatter of the neighborhood kids blurred into silence. Elizabeth nipped Adam’s lip before deepening the kiss. He opened his mouth to her insistent pressure. His large hands spanned her back. Adam’s warmth wrapped around her.

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She pulled away, their breaths mingling. Elizabeth reluctantly opened her eyes. The look he gave her temporarily robbed her of any wisecrack. She finally understood that she was cherished and cherished forever. “I love you Adam,” she murmured against his mouth, fighting back the sting of tears. “About time you realized that,” Adam replied hoarsely. “Now we just need to work on the honor and obey part.” Elizabeth tilted her head away from his exploring mouth. “I am not obeying.” “We’ll work on that.” He leaned in for another kiss. “I am not obeying,” she repeated. “We’ll negotiate.” He lowered his head and kissed her. ***** Several minutes later Adam escorted her to his front door. She untangled herself from his casual embrace and looked around with interest. She could see hints of brown carpeting and white walls behind the mountains of junk. “Do you realize this is the first time I’ve been in your home?” “Not much to see,” Adam said as he closed the door before kicking into the jumbled corner filled with sports paraphernalia. “In fact, it’s probably a good idea not to wander around. You might get lost in the mess. Come to think of it, the hallway is the cleanest room.” Elizabeth chuckled. “You didn’t think of tidying up before grabbing your woman and dragging her to your lair?” “I hadn’t exactly planned it. God,” he winced and shook his head as if he could erase the memory. “What a scene we made.” “We made?” He leaned against the front door. “We’ll never live it down. My brother will find reasons to bring it up for the next fifty years.” Elizabeth stood in front of him, positioning her legs between his. “You deserve it.” “No, I don’t.” “Yeah, you do.” She snaked her hands under his shirt. “You also deserve this.” Her fingers dipped into the waistband of his low-slung jeans. Her hand was instantly smothered with

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heat. His skin and soft cotton underwear teased her fingertips. She brushed against the rough curls of his groin. Adam hissed with pleasure. “Okay, you’re right. I do deserve it.” His hands went to the hem of her shirt. “No, no.” She batted him away. “Lean back and enjoy.” She unsnapped his jeans with her other hand, dragging the zipper down. “Uh, princess,” he said in a low rasp, “you might want to be careful.” “Shh.” The room pulsed with anticipation. All she could hear was the metallic rasp of the zipper and Adam’s uneven breathing. Elizabeth knew her heart rate mimicked the rhythm. She ignored the heaviness in her breasts and the zinging in her veins. When she shoved his jeans and underwear down his hair-roughened thighs, she carefully freed his penis from its cloth prison. It rose with excitement. Fascinated by his reaction, Elizabeth cradled his thickening member with both hands. She glanced at Adam’s face. His skin took on a ruddy color as it stretched against his cheekbones. Nostrils flaring, mouth parted and eyes glittering, his face was stamped with lust. She had a pretty good idea that she looked the same. She grasped his penis, capturing the emanating heat. She squeezed and felt him pulse under her palms. Elizabeth clenched him. She jumped as Adam’s tensed knuckles bumped against the door. “Yes.” The word tore through his throat. “Just like that.” Power bubbled through her chest as arousal pooled heavily in her pelvis. She tugged her closed hand over his rounded tip. Adam thrust against her fist. She continued the agonizingly slow pull. Hand over hand as his penis thickened and the head became dewy. She used the musky scented moisture and rubbed in into his heated penis. The friction burned her hands. She continued until Adam’s hips bucked. Elizabeth dropped to her knees. The subservient position in front of a man should have bothered her, but it didn’t. The act of submission held incredible sexual power. Adam jerked as her wet tongue swirled his penis. She suppressed a wicked smile as his drawn-out groan reverberated through his body. She gave pleasure and received it. Elizabeth was taming her man as he tamed her. The power exchange was heady and addictive.

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She grasped the stem with one hand and cradled his heated testicles with the other. She mouthed his penis an inch at a time. Adam’s hands threaded through her hair and supported the back of her head. His fingers tightened with every lap and lick. His blunt fingertips scraped her scalp as she grazed the thick ridge with her teeth. “Pull away, princess,” he ordered roughly. “I’m going to come.” He shifted as if to pull away from her wet warmth. She ignored his command. She wanted to accept his offering. Elizabeth firmly sucked his throbbing flesh. An urgent stillness invaded Adam. His hands anchored the sides of her head as he thrashed against her mouth. Elizabeth buried her nose into his wiry thatch of curls, inhaling the scent of sweat, heated flesh, and masculine arousal. She was greedy for more. As she sucked ferociously on his penis, Elizabeth massaged Adam’s testicles. He bellowed with pleasure. He emptied into Elizabeth’s mouth with short, choppy thrusts before sagging against the door. Elizabeth let go of Adam. Her mouth felt suddenly empty. Her lips and jaw ached, but it almost felt good. She licked her reddened lips and it tasted of him. The nagging pressure between her thighs didn’t diminish. In fact, she felt damp and puffy. Yet she felt satisfied. Better than satisfied as her body sang with liberation. She had no idea why, or why her act of pleasure felt natural. All she knew was that she could give herself completely to Adam. She could accept his power as they made love and not compete with it. She could love him fearlessly. But could she marry him fearlessly? Adam slid down to the floor and gathered her into his arms. She nestled her head against his chest. His heart thudded heavily like hers. A phrase from the Apache wedding blessing drifted through her mind. Now you will feel no cold, for each of you will be warmth to the other. Quiet certainty flooded her. She smiled lazily and closed her eyes. Marry Adam without fear, she wondered. You bet. Bring it on.

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Epilogue Eight Months Later “I should have eloped,” Adam said to Ben as they stood on the church steps after his wedding rehearsal. His wedding rehearsal. Adam’s heart expanded. He couldn’t believe he and Elizabeth had gotten to this point without any major setbacks. There had been moments when Adam thought Elizabeth would never want marriage. Quite a few times when Adam had been ready to explode with impatience. He was deeply grateful that they’d persevered. “Eloped?” Ben chortled at the idea. “What’s the big deal? This is a very small, informal wedding. Nothing like what Marianne and I went through. Anyway, Mom would’ve freaked at the idea. No telling what Elizabeth’s mom would’ve done. Probably strangle you?” Adam’s gaze drifted to his future mother-in-law. She was explaining some point of wedding etiquette to Elizabeth. Elizabeth and her mother were very much alike. Elizabeth would probably strangle him if he ever said such a thing. At the moment Elizabeth looked ready to clamp her hands around her mother’s throat. Elizabeth. Adam watched as she spoke passionately to her mother. Could it be possible for Elizabeth to grow more beautiful every day? Her brown hair bounced freely around her face. He knew the shiny strands were soft as silk. Elizabeth’s eyes flashed with annoyance. A gusty sigh expelled from her kissable mouth. His gaze traveled down her yellow floral shirt and matching cotton pants. He tried not to remember the lemon yellow bra and panties she wore underneath. Every morning he got to watch Elizabeth do a strip tease in reverse. And every night he got to participate in taking off her clothes. It was one of the many benefits of living together. They’d moved in together four months ago. She hadn’t moved into his apartment or he into hers. They’d chosen to move into a new duplex. It was a major step for both of them. They’d both made this decision with the understanding that it was a move closer to marriage. Adam remembered the anticipation he felt the day he moved in with Elizabeth. It was nothing compared to the high hopes he’d experienced before proposing marriage. The rush he felt the day before his wedding eclipsed all the excitement in the past.

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“I’ve had it!” Elizabeth announced before storming off to the parking lot. “Yep.” Adam nodded his head. “Should’ve eloped.” He slapped Ben’s shoulder. “See you at the rehearsal dinner.” “Sure hope you get there in one piece.” “’Course we will,” Adam said confidently as he went down the steps. “We’re taking my truck and I’m driving.” Ben laughed. “I’m telling Elizabeth you said that.” “Troublemaker.” Adam walked over to his future in-laws. “I’ll see you both at the dinner.” “Adam,” Elizabeth’s mother Judith said in a begging tone, “please talk some sense into Elizabeth.” Adam knew that phrase was a code for Elizabeth won’t do what I tell her. “What seems to be the problem?” he asked, knowing he wasn’t going to get involved. He didn’t like how his future mother-in-law tried to get her own way. It usually consisted of dealing out sweet words without a drop of truth to back it up. Adam was thankful Elizabeth was more up front in getting her way. It amazed Adam that Elizabeth never saw how her mother operated. Adam wasn’t about to make an issue of it, unless it would cause Elizabeth problems. Then he would confront it. Until then, he would adapt and work around Judith’s form of manipulation. “Elizabeth refuses to be given away,” Judith said. “Can you believe it?” Uh-oh. No wonder Elizabeth was angry. She had said from the very beginning that she would walk down the aisle alone. “Um…who do you want to give her away?” “Me, of course.” Roger, Elizabeth’s stepfather, puffed out his chest. No wonder the idea didn’t go over well. Adam admired Elizabeth’s restraint. She’d already made a few concessions for her mother. Elizabeth had complied with Judith’s requests and would wear her mother’s wedding gown and invite all of her relatives. Elizabeth did all this and had never asked her family for any help with the wedding. Not one dime or one hour. But the giving away by Roger was asking too much. “The girl has no respect for her elders,” Roger grumbled. “No respect at all. That’s your fault, Judith. You didn’t teach her to respect her parents.”

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Adam gritted his teeth. He wasn’t going to stand around and listen about how Elizabeth was a horrible daughter. “I think it’s out of respect to her parents that she wants to go down the aisle alone.” “I don’t follow,” Roger said. “Elizabeth is missing her late father a lot these days. It’s understandable. I think that under the circumstances she’s trying to respect his memory. One way is by going down the aisle alone.” Adam saw the comprehension lighting their faces. He wasn’t about to go into the other reasons she wanted to walk alone. He just wanted to use one of the reasons they could understand. “Well, why didn’t she say so?” Roger asked. “She did,” Judith responded. “In a roundabout way.” “Roundabout.” Roger snorted. “Can’t she explain things clearly? Is this what happens when women try to get an education?” Adam decided now would be a good time to leave before he lost his temper. He would deal with that argument another time. And there would be another time. Roger and Trevor made quite a few jokes about Elizabeth’s quest for higher education. Judith didn’t make jokes but her comments dug under Elizabeth’s skin and festered for weeks. No one seemed to notice how difficult it was for Elizabeth to work and go to school. They didn’t see her frustration after writing several drafts for a term paper. No one showed concern while she crammed all night for a test. Elizabeth was giving her all to create opportunities and only Adam applauded her efforts. It was so unfair. Adam tried to do more than just applaud. He wanted to show his love and support in practical, helpful ways. He kept her cursed Gremlin running safely and fed Elizabeth regularly during exam week. He did a hundred little things to help her. He did them freely and with love. He wanted to show his love and support one other way. A symbolic way. He’d been hiding a present in his truck so he could surprise her on their honeymoon. Now was as good a time as any to give it to her. She probably needed the gift right at this moment. Adam decided to give it to her immediately and headed straight for his truck.

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***** “Adam, what are you doing?” Elizabeth asked, poking her head out the truck window. “We need to take that exit.” “I thought we’d take a break from our wedding duties.” “We can’t skip out on the rehearsal dinner!” Elizabeth exclaimed. She would love to, but she knew they couldn’t. “We’re not. We’ll just be a couple minutes late.” Adam turned the truck into the East Side Park’s gravel lot. “What are we doing here?” The parking lot was where she and Adam had first made love. The place was branded into her memory for life. “I don’t know what you’re planning, but you can’t.” “I can’t?” Adam parked the car and turned off the ignition. “Adam! It’s daylight, there are children right over there playing, and we have to be at a party in ten minutes.” “Tsk, tsk, tsk.” Adam shook his head and reached behind his seat. “You have a one-track mind, princess.” He pulled out a gift-wrapped box. The elegant dark blue paper and ribbon instantly made Elizabeth curious. “What’s this?” she asked. “A wedding present from me to you.” “Wedding present? Adam, you already give me so much.” “Get used to it. Now open it.” He handed her the box. Elizabeth stared at Adam as he propped an elbow on the steering wheel and rested his head on his fist. Elizabeth carefully untied the bow and peeled the paper away from the box. She had no clue what she would find inside. She had thought she could expect these frequent gifts from Adam to stop. When they’d first started dating he would send flowers every week to her office. She thought it was a sign of the first blush of a relationship. She was wrong. The flowers still arrive at her office. He took her out to lunch every Wednesday afternoon. They spent quiet evenings together on the weekends. The thoughtful, romantic moments never faded into a pleasant memory. Instead, Adam reinforced his display of love in

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other ways. He listened to her rant and rave. He held her close when she had a bad day and celebrated when she got her first report card. But what meant the most to Elizabeth was the day when Adam had shared the events of his bad day at work. She wanted to be there to listen and support. She wanted him to confide in her. She didn’t want him to project his golden boy image in front of her. “You’re not going to guess what’s inside,” Adam said, “so stop staring at the box and open it.” He flashed her a teasing smile that made her pulse quicken. Elizabeth focused on the box and opened it. She pushed aside the white tissue paper and revealed a fine-tooled leather folder. “Adam!” Her eyes widened with delight. “This is beautiful.” She lifted the heavy folder and inhaled the leather scent. “I’ll be the envy of all my classmates.” “It’s not for school.” Elizabeth frowned. “It’s not?” “This folder is to replace the bent-up one you have stuffed in your desk at home. The one that has your list of goals and dreams.” Elizabeth’s mouth fell open. “How did you know?” “I just do. What I don’t know is why you feel the need to hide that folder.” Elizabeth shrugged. “I don’t know. Force of habit? I just don’t want anything to happen to it.” “Nothing will,” Adam promised. “This will protect all your papers.” Elizabeth caressed the raised design with her fingertips. “Thank you, Adam. I’ll always treasure it.” “And I won’t keep you from completing those lists. Nor will our marriage.” “You don’t even know what’s on those lists.” “Doesn’t matter. They’re important to you. The last thing I want to do is stand in your way.” Elizabeth flinched in surprise. “You could never be in the way. What gave you that idea?” “I’m just saying—”

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“It’ll never happen.” Elizabeth leaned over and kissed him soundly. “As far as I’m concerned, you’re the best defender and protector of my dreams that I have. I can’t ask for more.” Elizabeth sat back as Adam’s eyes blazed with passion. “Adam,” she warned. “Don’t even think about it. We have a party to go to.” She dodged away from his hands, squealing. “Adam!”

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