The Billionaire Rancher Buys a Wife

Wives for the Western Billionaires 2

The Billionaire Rancher Buys a Wife Drake Terrell wins a bid to date Janice Dedrick. He expects a fun fling. She refuses his offer and ends their date early. Drake realizes she means more to him than he thought. He decides to pursue her seriously. Janice has doubts about his sincerity. She gives him an ultimatum: change his career, buy a ranch, and agree to have children before she'll consider him. She's bluffing, never thinking he'd do what she asked. Meanwhile, she receives threatening midnight calls, and accidents, or real threats, begin to endanger her and Drake. Drake calls his brother to help find the person trying to injure or kill them. As their love heats up, so does the stalker's determination. Can this rancher win Janice's heart and save her life? Genre: Contemporary, Western/Cowboys Length: 42,180 words

THE BILLIONAIRE RANCHER BUYS A WIFE Wives for the Western Billionaires 2

Paige Cameron

EVERLASTING CLASSIC

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

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A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Everlasting Classic

THE BILLIONAIRE RANCHER BUYS A WIFE Copyright © 2011 by Paige Cameron E-book ISBN: 1-61034-751-X First E-book Publication: August 2011 Cover design by Les Byerley All cover art and logo copyright © 2011 by Siren Publishing, Inc. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED: This literary work may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, including electronic or photographic reproduction, in whole or in part, without express written permission. All characters and events in this book are fictitious. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is strictly coincidental.

PUBLISHER Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

Letter to Readers Dear Readers, If you have purchased this copy of The Billionaire Rancher Buys a Wife by Paige Cameron from BookStrand.com or its official distributors, thank you. Also, thank you for not sharing your copy of this book.

Regarding E-book Piracy This book is copyrighted intellectual property. No other individual or group has resale rights, auction rights, membership rights, sharing rights, or any kind of rights to sell or to give away a copy of this book. The author and the publisher work very hard to bring our paying readers high-quality reading entertainment. This is Paige Cameron’s livelihood. It’s fair and simple. Please respect Ms. Cameron’s right to earn a living from her work. Amanda Hilton, Publisher www.SirenPublishing.com www.BookStrand.com

DEDICATION To Teri. Thanks for everything.

THE BILLIONAIRE RANCHER BUYS A WIFE Wives for the Western Billionaires 2 PAIGE CAMERON Copyright © 2011

Chapter One Janice Dedrick was next. Butterflies flitted about in her stomach. She questioned her own sanity. Whatever had possessed her to volunteer for this auction, even if it was for a good cause? The lights dimmed and the announcer said her name. “Go on, Janice.” The coordinator gave her a gentle push. I’ll never put myself in this position again. She took two steps onto the stage and a spotlight hit her full force. A murmur rose from the crowd. The light followed her as she slowly walked across the platform to the catwalk. Not being able to see the audience because of the lowered lights gave her the sensation of being lost in an unfamiliar place. Hundreds of eyes looking at her, but she didn’t know who they were. Her skin prickled with uneasiness. “One hundred dollars,” the first bidder spoke out. Finally, he’d have a chance to make her notice him. He’d win the date and take her for a lovely dinner. She’d look into his eyes and realize, as he had many years ago, that they were destined for each other. He’d have her full attention. The emcee encouraged other bids. Janice tried to ignore the

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bidders and turned to walk back toward the stage. “Five hundred,” a faintly familiar voice spoke with authority. But it couldn’t be Drake. He was miles away, doing whatever it was he did. “Seven-fifty,” the first bidder said. The man leaned forward to see who had dared to bid against him. The other bidder would ruin the perfect, beautiful plan he had to seduce the fascinating Janice. His hands curled into tight fist. Shocked by the high bid, Janice tried to see who had bid, but the lowered lights hid his identity. “One thousand dollars.” Total silence after that. “Going for one thousand dollars,” the emcee said. “Five thousand.” There, he’d been pushed to his limit, but that ought to shut up the tall, dark man to his right. Who was he? He’d find out and make him rue the day he dared to try and win Janice, his Janice. Both voices sounded familiar. One more so than the other. Janice was almost certain the higher bidder was Drake Terrell. But the other, she couldn’t quite place. “Ten thousand,” said the man she suspected was Drake. His firm, decisive tone was meant to discourage the other bidder. “We have ten thousand dollars bid by the gentleman standing to my left,” the emcee spoke, shock evident in his voice. “Going once, twice, and you have bought a dinner date with our delightful Janice Dedrick.” Janice practically ran off the stage. Her face was hot and must look as red as a lobster. The other women crowded around, congratulating her on earning so much money for the hospital. But all Janice saw was Drake’s mocking smile the last time they’d met, and his words echoed in her head. “I’m a determined man,” he’d said. “Someday, some way, you’ll give in and go on a real date with me. Those foursomes with our best friends don’t count.” Then he’d bent low and whispered, “I want you

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all to myself.” She had no doubt Drake had bid that ridiculous sum of money. She’d avoided him as much as possible this past year. Ever since she’d met him at her best friend, Samantha and his best friend, Jackson’s home. She wasn’t certain why she didn’t want to date him. The man was handsome and rich, but he had a reputation for being a playboy, the last kind of man she needed to fall for. Perhaps her avoidance was a natural defense mechanism. His determination had won out. She was obligated to let him take her on a dinner date. Still, ten thousand dollars seemed like an exorbitant amount even for him. She wondered who the other man was that bid for her. She’d probably never know. Janice changed into comfortable jeans and a sweater, excused herself, and hurried out the side exit. She’d parked her car two rows over. As soon as she got close, she saw Drake leaning negligently against her car door. He didn’t move aside. Just gave her that lazy smile that always kicked her heartbeat up a notch. “I decided seeing you tonight and arranging our date in person was preferable to the telephone.” He glanced around the dark parking lot. “You shouldn’t walk to your car alone.” “I know. Tall, dangerous men might be waiting in the shadows.” He ducked his head toward her. “You think I’m dangerous?” “I’m certain you could be.” “What do you fear I might do to you?” His tone had gone low and seductive. Steal my heart. “Nothing,” she said firmly. “I’ve taken karate. No one will mess with me.” “Don’t be overconfident.” Without seeing him move, he had rolled, swung his arms, and held her tight against his hot body. “See. At this point, I have you at my mercy. Go ahead, try to escape.” He whispered the taunting words in her ear. She tried to head butt him, kick him, all the moves she’d been

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taught, but it was too late. He had her totally controlled. She felt his hard arousal against her buttocks. Tipping her head to the side and back, he brushed his mouth across her lips. When she opened her mouth to protest, he switched her around where she faced him. He still held her body clamped tight against his, as his tongue slipped between her lips to caress the soft interior. One of his hands slid down her back and held her buttocks firm, keeping her body snug against his cock. He raised his head. His dark, mysterious eyes searched her face. “I’ve wanted you since I saw you that day at the top of the plane’s steps, when you arrived at Jackson’s ranch. I intend to have you. And you’ll want me, too, and beg me to take you before I do.” She stomped his foot. “When hell freezes over.” “They’re expecting a blizzard.” She tried to stop herself from laughing. “Let me go, you idiot. You won dinner with me, not me for dinner.” “Very funny, wait and see.” His eyes sparkled with mischief. He stepped back, freeing her. “I’ll wait. I want you safely inside your car before I leave.” Her hand trembled when she went to put the key in the door. His warm fingers curled around hers, and the latch popped open. Quickly, ignoring her hungry body, she slid inside and pushed the lock button. She waved and began to back out. He motioned for her to stop. She punched the button to lower her window. “Tomorrow is Saturday. I’ll pick you up at one in the afternoon. We’ll start our evening early.” Janice started to protest, but remembered the large amount he’d bid. “All right, but you only bought my time, nothing else.” His slow grin had desire curling inside her. “We’ll only do what you want.” He waved her on. “See you tomorrow.” There she was, acting the whore again, just like before. He never had a chance with Mr. Billionaire Terrell bidding. They’d pay and

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he’d enjoy seeing Terrell’s blood flowing on the ground. Money never kept death away. He slipped farther back into the shadows. Janice forced herself to concentrate on driving. She kept thoughts of Drake pushed away, until she parked in her garage and went into the kitchen. She poured herself a glass of cool water and drank. What have I done? Drake Terrell was a dangerous man. A danger to her peace of mind and the comfortable world she’d built around herself after Ted, her fiancé’s, death. Not that she was afraid to love like her friend, Samantha, had been. No, it wasn’t that. She liked order to her life, to know what to expect. No big surprises. Drake was the opposite. He fed on excitement, travel, danger. He exuded raw masculinity in spite of his sophisticated persona. She’d recognized those traits in him almost immediately on meeting him. She put her glass on the counter and turned off the light to head for bed. Somehow she’d get through their date tomorrow and then be very careful to not place herself in this type of position ever again. At midnight, her phone rang. Janice fumbled for the receiver. “Whore. Bad things happen to people who are whores or use whores.” Half asleep, the words weren’t clear in Janice’s mind for the first few seconds. When they were, she slammed the phone down. Shaking, she reached across the bedside table and clicked her light on. Sitting on the side of the bed, she tried to calm herself. Her heart was racing and her empty house suddenly felt threatening. The voice had been muffled. Who in the world would make such a call? When she had steadied her nerves, she turned off the light and walked around the house, double-checking the doors and peeking out the windows. A quarter moon shone between two large clouds. A neighbor’s dog barked, once, then went quiet. She huddled on the sofa, a blanket wrapped around her, and a hammer from the closet in her hand. There’d be no more sleep

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tonight. **** She’d finally fallen asleep in the early morning hours and awoke with her neck twisted in an uncomfortable position. Even after a shower and exercise, tiredness still hovered over her. She wasn’t in the best condition to enjoy any date. She needed to be in tiptop shape to tangle with Drake. Maybe she’d call him and reschedule their outing. Did she have his number? She searched her file—nothing. Samantha would know how to reach him. Samantha’s husband and Drake had known each other for years. No, she couldn’t involve them. She might as well make the best of it and get the date over with. It was eleven already. Time to choose an outfit. She hadn’t thought to ask him how to dress, informal, formal. She had no idea. Black slacks and a nice sweater would fit most places, except for the ultra-fancy restaurants. She’d have him wait while she changed, if necessary. Janice busied herself with chores, but the next two hours still crept by. Finally, he drove into her drive in a shiny, black sports car with the top down. Before he came to the door, she ran to her bedroom and grabbed a scarf. The doorbell rang. “Good afternoon, you look lovely,” Drake said. He wore faded jeans and a black shirt. The shirt was open partway. Dark brown hair showed between the edges. Janice suddenly had a strong impulse to rise up on her toes and kiss his arrogant mouth. “Hold that thought.” “What do you mean?” she blustered. “It must have been sexy—you blushed. I can’t remember ever seeing the cool Ms. Dedrick show any discomposure. I like it.” “I think I’ve dressed too fancy for wherever you’re taking me.

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Shall I change?” His intense inspection of her outfit made her temperature rise at least ten degrees. The worst part was that he was fully aware of his effect on her. She saw it in his chocolate-colored eyes and the smile on his face. “Sure, change into jeans, and bring a bathing suit along.” “It’s much too cold out to swim.” “We won’t be out in the cold.” They must be going somewhere that had an indoor pool. She did like to swim. Deciding not to protest, she hurried to her bedroom and changed into jeans and a pink shirt, then wrapped her swimsuit in a towel. Picking up her purse, she joined him. “Let’s hurry,” he said. “This is going to be fun.” His hand on her lower back, he guided her out and to the car. He drove fast along the back roads, yet Janice felt safe. His hands were firmly on the steering wheel, and his attention focused on where he was driving. When they made a right turn and then pulled onto a gravel road, she began to get a bit uneasy. “Where are we headed?” “See the sign straight ahead?” Janice spotted the wood signpost. “Airport. There’s an airport here?” “A little farther and we make another right turn then we’ll be at a private airport I use.” Stunned, Janice sat back and watched as an old wooden building with a tower came into sight. To the left of the building was a long, well-built runway. “We’re not flying to dinner, are we?” Drake didn’t answer. He stopped the car and came around and opened her door. “Come with me. I want to show off my private jet.” She hesitated a second, then took his hand. “Is this the one Samantha flew in? She said it was luxurious.”

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“Same one. It’s out on the runway. They have the steps down, waiting to give you a tour.” Janice stopped at the bottom of the steps. “The engine is running.” “They’re going on a trip for me after our tour.” A sense of wariness held her still for several seconds. “Remember, I’m a gentleman.” “Something tells me that’s when you want to be.” Ignoring her gut feeling, Janice climbed the steps and walked inside the plane. “Oh, it is lovely.” She went across to one of the plush chairs and ran her hand across the velvet covering. “Sit down. See how comfortable it is,” Drake said. She sat and he bent down to show her how the belt came across and fastened. His spicy aroma had her taking a deep breath. He looked right into her eyes, and an ache started deep inside and low. The sounds of the engines revving and the door being latched brought her head around. “We’re taking off.” “Yes, darlin’. We’re going to my personal island for dinner.” “Stop this plane right now.” “Too late.” Drake moved to the nearest seat and fastened his belt. “For ten thousand dollars don’t you think I deserve to choose the place where we eat?” “Within reason, and that doesn’t include a restaurant hundreds of miles away.” “Most women would be overjoyed at the prospect.” His smooth purr of a voice sent a shiver down her spine. “I’m not most women.” “And that is why you’re here, and they’re not.”

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Chapter Two “We forgot my bathing suit,” Janice added, trying to convince Drake to turn the plane around. “No worry. We can swim nude.” “Not me.” “I’m very surprised at how puritanical you are.” “I am not. I’m sensible, rational, not wild, but that doesn’t mean I don’t like to have fun.” “When is the last time you really let yourself have fun?” He’d unfasten his belt and now stood beside her chair. Reaching down, he released her. “Come with me. I’ll give you that tour.” “The last time you said that to me, I ended up on this plane flying to some mystery island.” Drake laughed and pulled her out of the chair. He led her down a short hall and opened the door to the end room. “‘Step into my web,’ said the spider.” A shiver ran up her spine at his words. With a gentle push, she found herself inside a luxurious bedroom. “All the comforts of home, I see,” she said. “Why be uncomfortable when you travel? I’m on the go a lot.” Janice took a cautious step further into the room. She turned to find Drake leaning against the door, a seductive smile on his face, hunger glittering in his eyes. She clasped her hands together to hide their tremor. “Go over and look in the bathroom. It’s quite decadent.” “I’ve no doubt, knowing you.” “But that’s the problem, you don’t know me. You’ve listened to

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others about my reputation.” “You are known to be a ladies’ man. Are you saying the gossips are wrong?” Drake moved closer, and her heartbeat sped up. Standing in the middle of his bedroom made her feel vulnerable. She hated not having control. “I enjoy life to the fullest, but perhaps not as full as people like to imagine. I’m thirty-two, and definitely not a virgin.” There went the flash of heat to her face, again. “Are you a prude, Janice, or as innocent as you appear? You’re definitely an intriguing woman.” He had stepped right into her space. She wanted to move back. She didn’t. Her body rebelled, and she found herself leaning in toward him. He licked across her mouth, and nibbled at the corner of her lip. She parted her lips, and he gently moved his tongue inside. They were held together only by the steamy kiss. Drake straightened. His brown eyes held her fascinated. “Have you ever done something just because you wanted to, without thinking out all the pros and cons? My sweet, who holds herself to a rigid control, what would happen if you let it all go?” Mesmerized by his tone, the lingering desire still flowing through her veins, Janice wanted to do as he suggested. She’d never have the courage. Tomorrow reality always returned. She turned away and put space between them. “I’m not the woman you want. I don’t do wild, wicked weekends. I suppose in your world, I am that prude.” Janice was surprised to be blinking her eyes to keep tears from falling. “I have time. I’ll show you the way.” His hands cupped her shoulders as he whispered into her ear. Janice whirled out of his grasp and forced a smile on her face. “Temptation comes in a very handsome package.” She let her eyes roam down and back up his lean, sexy body. As she’d hoped, he laughed, the lust in his eyes not quite as apparent as earlier.

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“Ah, my love, you are a woman of contradictions, a challenge. I intend to discover all your secrets.” “Why? There are hundreds of women who’d love this attention. I don’t want it,” she said, and crossed her fingers behind her back. “Shall we go back to the front of the plane? I’d offer the bed for you to rest, perhaps sleep the rest of the journey, but you don’t trust me enough, yet, to do that.” When she had safely returned to the main, well-lit cabin and sat down in her chair, he went back to his seat. He swiveled to face her. “What you said back there”—he nodded toward the bedroom—“you lied, we both know it. I intend to prove it.” Drake rang for the stewardess. “Please bring us some snacks and a whiskey for me. Would you like wine, or is that too daring?” he asked Janice. “Actually, I’d like a Rusty Nail.” His surprised expression had her grinning. “See what I mean, a woman of contradictions.” **** They ate, and afterward Drake put his chair back and slept. Janice enjoyed observing him. He had good bone structure, high cheek bones, a strong mouth, and a square, determined jaw. He was not a pretty, handsome man, his face spoke too much of being a leader. His only softness, the dark, brown hair worn slightly long, shone silky in the soft cabin light. She had an absurd desire to run her fingers through the strands. Instead, she focused her attention on the rest of his long, lean body sprawled in his chair. Always, she’d sensed a leashed tiger underneath his gentleman persona. Even asleep, he appeared ready to wake, and charge if necessary. I suppose in all the dangerous situations he goes into he must be prepared. He didn’t talk about the arbitration work he did for the

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government, under the guise of being an international attorney. What was his background? Where was he from? She’d never asked Samantha’s husband, Jackson, about his friend. She jumped when Drake’s eyes suddenly opened. “How can a man sleep with you so loudly observing him?” He pretended to be irritated, but his laughing eyes gave him away. “You like for women to admire you.” “Don’t you like for men to do the same to you?” “Perhaps, sometimes.” Drake glanced out the window. “We’re close. The seat belt sign will come on soon. It will be good to be here. One of the few places I can really relax.” The plane landed as the sun set across the calm sea. Streaks of pink and orange painted the sky and the water. Excitement began to build inside her. A private island. Few people, and none she’d known, had ever had the money to purchase a whole island. He was obviously well-paid for his work. “I can’t wait for you to see the house.” For a second, he reminded her of a young boy showing off his prized possession. The sunset streaked across the villa, making the house look like a many-faceted jewel sitting on the top of a high hill. She couldn’t look away as they wound their way along the curved drive. Purples, pinks, and orange colors alternated over the window panes. The smell of flowers, jasmine, orange blossom, and other sweet scents blew around her. Had she fallen asleep and awoke in Eden? “You like my island and my home?” He reached across the seat and clasped her hand. “I do. It’s a magical place. The air is soft and sweet, and the views are magnificent.” “Glad I tricked you into coming?” Janice glanced at him. “I believe I am. We’ll see afterwards.” “Always cautious.”

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The driver, who’d been waiting for them in an old convertible, turned into a wide gravel drive that led to the house. He stopped at the front door and went around to the trunk to get the one small bag Drake had brought with him. Drake opened her door and put out his hand. “Welcome, to my home.” The house was surrounded by terraces filled with flowers. A smiling, plump, gray-haired woman greeted them at the door. “Welcome. Come in. When you’re ready I have hors d’oeuvres and drinks ready to bring out to the veranda.” “Thank you, Ulani. This is my friend, Janice Dedrick. Janice, Ulani is a wonderful cook. You’ll love her food.” “I’m sure I will.” “I’m going to show Janice around. We’ll be out on the veranda in a few minutes.” “Good. It is nice meeting you, Miss Dedrick.” “Please call me Janice.” Ulani nodded and walked away. Drake guided Janice into a large living room. The windows facing west gave a picture of the terraces and blue water in the distance. The whole world painted in all the colors of the rainbow. She followed Drake around as he pointed out an office, and the kitchen that opened off this room. All the rooms had glass sliding doors opening to a wide veranda. They came to a short hall, and Drake motioned for her to go ahead of him. “I have two bedrooms here, one on each side. The last door is mine. Go ahead and enter.” She glanced back at him. “It’s safe for me to enter?” “Of course. But, it might be dangerous for me. Who knows, you might decide to attack me and cover me with kisses.” His lip quirked up at the corner. Janice shook her head. “You’re hallucinating.” “Nope, dreaming.”

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The door opened with a creak. “I guess I’m not using this room enough. I’ll get Keoni, our driver and Ulani’s husband, to oil the hinges.” She ignored him. She was too busy absorbing the beauty of his room. It was large. Windows wrapped around, giving views from three directions. A wide expanse of sea shone from every angle, giving the effect of being on a ship. The light blue walls only added to that impression. The large, round bed sat in the center. To the left, next to the windows, was a partially opened door. She could see a bath done in soft yellows. The sound of a quiet motor had her looking around. “Look up,” Drake said. Above the bed, part of the roof had pulled back, exposing another window. “At night all the stars twinkle down on you.” Janice took a deep breath, trying to settle her body. Heat had flashed along every nerve. She could visualize the darkness, Drake’s hard, hot body against hers, and the cool sky above. “A room for seduction,” she said in a hoarse whisper. Drake stepped behind her and brushed her auburn hair to the side. He kissed the side of her neck and sent shivers across her body. One hand slid into the opening of her shirt, and his fingers caressed the tip of her breast. With his other arm, he pulled her tight against him. Deep inside, her pussy throbbed with desire. She clenched her inner muscles. He surrounded her, his body, and his musky, masculine scent. His teeth nipped at the edge of her earlobe, and she thought she’d melt in a puddle at his feet. Janice licked her dry lips. “We mustn’t do this.” Her words came out in a whisper. “Why not?” She swallowed and gulped for air. “I want a committed relationship, and you want a fling.” He turned her and held her head between his hands while his

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mouth ravished hers. His tongue did a sensuous dance inside her mouth, touching, tasting, demanding her to respond. Drake raised his head and ran his finger across her swollen lips. “What’s wrong with having a fling?” “Nothing, if that’s where you are in your life. I’m ready to find the right man and settle down. You’re ready to fly away at the drop of a hat. I have to protect myself from men like you.” A frown crossed his lean, hard face. He dropped his arms to his side. “Shall we go to the veranda? Ulani will be waiting with her delectable hors d’oeuvres.” Janice walked around him, down the hall, and waited in the living room for him to show her the way outside. He’d stopped to close the rooftop view. He came to her side and motioned for her to go out the doors on the right side of the room. It was dusk, and tiki lights had been lit around the edge of the veranda. Moonlight had begun to cast a silver glow over the waves rolling lazily to the shore. On the next terrace down, Janice saw the pool, its multicolored lights reflected under the water. Ulani brought out a tray of mixed hors d’oeuvres—baconwrapped shrimp, stuffed mushrooms, cheese, and grapes. She left and returned with tall, frosty glasses filled with a rose-colored drink. Janice took a cautious sip. “It’s delicious.” “Ulani’s mixture of fruits. She doesn’t tell anyone her recipe. And, don’t worry. There isn’t a drop of alcohol in the mix.” “I wasn’t worried,” Janice protested. “You worry about everything. I’d like to show you how to quit worrying and enjoy life, but to be honest, you’re right. I am only looking for a fling. I haven’t the time to get serious, nor can I see myself settling down, not just yet anyway.” Janice’s heart dropped at his words. Well, what did you expect him to say, that he’d fallen madly in love with you? Be real, girl. “I appreciate your honesty.” She forced a smile, and hoped the dim lighting hid her heart’s disappointment. She sampled all the

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different snacks, and drank the rest of her drink. Drake had gone quiet, and stared off into the distance. He looked at her. “I’m being a poor host. Let’s walk through the gardens, and then Ulani will have our dinner ready.” He surprised her with his knowledge of the flowers, knowing their names and other interesting tidbits about them. He stopped her under a wide-spreading tree with gorgeous red flowers. “I saw one of these trees and loved the beauty of the blooms. It’s native to Madagascar, and named Delonix regia or Royal Poinciana. I’ve also seen them in Florida. I had this one flown here and planted. It’s done very well.” “It fits in your tropical garden.” Overhead, a million stars had come out to shine in the velvet black sky. A wonderful scent of flowers, cinnamon, and good food wafted through the air around them. In slow motion, Drake bent and gave her a gentle kiss. “You are a lovely lady, Janice Dedrick. It’s too bad we met at the wrong time for us.” He put his hand on the curve of her back and directed her toward the veranda. Ulani immediately brought out salads and rolls. She poured a white sparkling wine in their glasses. Hungry, they ate with little conversation between them. When they finished with the salads, Ulani served the main course. She brought the dishes out on a cart. Fresh fish lay on a bed of rice with a side of buttered carrots. A large bowl of fruit was set in the center of the small table. More rolls and wine were added. “This is absolutely the best food in the most beautiful surroundings,” Janice said. “I was lucky to find this place right when it went up for sale. When I need to refuel myself, I come here. Every time, I wonder why I haven’t come back sooner. Thank you for giving me the excuse to return today. I wouldn’t have otherwise. I’m going overseas tomorrow.”

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“Ah, another adventure,” Janice teased. He only smiled and turned his attention back to his food. Drake was a mysterious man. He had many facets himself. Perhaps she’d misjudged him in some perspectives. She tried to brush away the tinge of sadness that had flavored the evening ever since he’d admitted he only wanted a fling. Drake got up and went inside. She heard him speaking softly to Ulani and then soft music filled the space around her. “We’ll have dessert, and Keoni will drive us back to the plane.” He glanced at his watch. “I’ll have you home by early morning. It will be Sunday, so you can sleep in.” Dessert was flaming baked Alaska served in individual dishes. Ulani brought their coffee, and then went to tell her husband to bring the car around. Shortly after they finished eating, they were on their way down the curving road toward the landing strip. The stewardess greeted them, and in minutes they took off. “Put your seat back and rest,” Drake said. “Sleep if you can.” “I probably will. I’m full of wonderful food and wine.” She smiled at him and closed her eyes. **** He knew when she went to sleep. Her sweet, curvy body totally relaxed in the chair. The stewardess had dimmed the lights, but still her red hair glowed. Her rosy mouth parted slightly, her skin had a golden tan both on her face and along her neck and arms. She had sleek lines, but was rounded in all the right places. He remembered his first glimpse of her standing at the top of the stairs to the plane. A goddess with dark red hair. He’d wanted her then, and he did now, but her words had brought him to a stark reality. She wasn’t a woman to trifle with. She wanted more than he was

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ready to give. When he held her in his arms in his bedroom, the scent of violets in her hair, her soft breast in his hand, and her sweet ass against his rock-hard cock, all his blood went out of his brain and straight down. The caveman wanted to throw her on the bed and sink deep inside her softness. He could almost taste her sweet pussy. Then, she gave him the ultimatum. He had kissed her, hoping she wasn’t serious, but when he looked into her greenish brown eyes, he’d glimpsed the brief flash of hope. When he told her the truth, his words hurt her. She hid it well. Seeing her subdued surprisingly hurt him. Why? He’d had to be honest about his situation with several women over the past eight years, ever since he’d gotten involved with trying to help the government. His present career stood in the way of any meaningful relationship. He was tired. He’d like nothing better than to pick her up and cuddle on his bed. But he didn’t trust himself to just cuddle with her, and she didn’t trust him at all. Drake stretched. Lucky he was leaving tomorrow, leaving temptation behind.

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Chapter Three Two months later The phone rang, waking Janice from a sound sleep. Her clock showed the time, two thirty. She picked up the receiver. “Hello?” “Whores and whoresons suffer the consequences of their actions.” “Who are you? What do you want?” Janice screamed into the phone. “Retribution is coming soon.” She slammed the phone down. This was the first call in three weeks. She’d thought whoever the prankster was he’d stopped and gone away. There’d been several calls the week after she’d received the first one, similar words and threats. After the third call, she’d gone to the police and made a complaint. They’d tried to track where the calls were originating from, but each time it was a cell phone bought and discarded, never to be found. She’d received four or five more calls before they abruptly stopped, and she had sighed with relief. Sitting on the side of her bed, Janice pushed her hair out of her eyes. She didn’t know what to do. The police had been little help. She walked around the dark house, peeking out windows. Nothing. She’d be tired tomorrow, and grouchy. Truthfully, she’d been grouchy since she’d returned from her dream date. No matter how hard she tried to forget Drake and get her life back on an even keel, it hadn’t worked. These phone calls hadn’t helped, either. Today was Friday. She’d have the weekend to rest and figure out whether she had any other recourse to end these calls. The police had hit a dead end.

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Unable to sleep, she curled up on the sofa with a book. Her alarm clock ringing in the bedroom woke her at seven. Last time she’d looked at the clock, it had been four thirty. After a quick, cold shower, she dressed and drove to work. By nine o’clock she was yawning. She’d reported the call to police and got little reassurance they could do anything. Maybe if I changed my phone number, whoever he was would quit calling. Still, I’d have to contact so many people the number wouldn’t be secret for long. She took a big swallow of her coffee and then closed her eyes. Her phone rang almost immediately. “Hello?” “What’s the matter?” Drake asked. “Are you back, or is this a call from the outer limits of space?” “I’m home. Got in last night. I’m hoping I can convince you to go to dinner and a play with me tonight?” Her heart had jumped a beat at the sound of his voice. She wanted to see him, and yet it wouldn’t help her get over him. “I’m really tired. I plan to go straight home and climb into bed.” “I don’t suppose you want company?” She heard the teasing note in his voice. “I might, but I don’t like to share.” “Ah, that damnable commitment phobia you have.” Again, she heard the teasing note. Why did he want to see her? She didn’t dare let herself hope. “Tell me, what does a man have to do to convince a woman he’s serious about her?” A tiny speck of hope jumped to attention. Down, girl, he’s just asking a rhetorical question. “I suppose the answer would differ between women.” “Let me be more specific. What would it take for you to be convinced I’m serious about settling down?” Stunned, Janice didn’t say anything. How to answer? Was this just

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a joke? “Janice, are you still there?” “Drake, I’m tired and irritable, and this isn’t funny.” “I didn’t mean for it to be. Just answer the damn question.” “You don’t have to get testy. All right, for me he’d have to do something specific. For example”—she was angry now, and tired— “you’d have to buy a ranch or something, change your career, want children, convince me you were serious enough for me to take a chance. There, is that what you wanted?” He laughed, and she saw red. Steam must be coming out of my head. “That will do for now. What if we have dinner and go to the play tomorrow night? I promise to be on my best behavior.” “I’m surprised you have a best behavior. But I suppose I can find the time tomorrow.” “Your eager acceptance warms my heart.” The phone clicked off, but not before she heard another chuckle. The man was simply impossible, and she feared somewhere along the way she’d fallen in love with him. **** Drake put down the receiver. She wasn’t going to make it easy for him. Good. He’d had it too easy in the past. Anything worth having was worth fighting for, and he intended to win. Dressed in old jeans and a T-shirt, he went out to his garage. He opened the side door and the window, and sat at his work table. He enjoyed working on wood projects while he thought about his plans. Picking up a piece of sandpaper, he began to rub the side of a model airplane he’d started before his last trip. He’d been distracted the whole time he was gone. Thoughts of Janice kept popping up during the day and night. One of his strongest traits was an ability to focus, concentrate on what was happening

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around him. This time, he found himself asking someone to repeat a statement. They’d looked at him strangely several times. He’d lost his edge, and Janice was to blame. Never had he ever allowed a woman to disrupt his life in any way, and certainly not his work. Several women he’d dated in the past made overtures to him, but he found himself uninterested. There was one lady he’d dated on and off the past three years that he took to dinner. She’d been expecting more. “I’m sorry, Camille. I’ve met someone, and I’m surprised to say I believe it’s serious.” “I wondered when and who would catch your heart. I must admit I had hoped over time we might become more involved.” “You’re a beautiful woman. I’m sure you’ll find a man that will appreciate all your lovely qualities.” “But it won’t be you?” “I’m sorry. No.” She’d been gracious. He’d kissed her cheek and taken her home. In his room that night, he’d considered the differences in the two women. Camille had black hair, smooth white skin, and stunning blue eyes. She stood out in any group. She was sophisticated, able to navigate in the political circles where he often found himself. If he just wanted to get married, she’d have been an excellent choice, and would have understood the demands on his time. They’d have probably agreed to not have children. Whereas he found himself enamored with a tall redhead, with completely different ideas. Drake put down the sandpaper and moved to stretch. His knee bumped the edge of the table. He heard a crack and jumped. The shelf above his head came crashing down on the work bench, smashing his wooden plane. “What the—” Drake wiped dust from his face. A small block of wood had flown up and hit him in the cheek, making it bleed. Drake bent to inspect the bolts. He thought he’d put those in good and tight, but apparently not. He’d clean the place and go to the store

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for new bolts and another plane kit. There went his relaxing afternoon. The hell with it. He’d have a professional do the shelf this time. After calling the cabinet maker, he ordered flowers sent to Janice at work. He suspected she’d hate the attention, but she might as well get used to being spoiled. **** Janice went through four outfits before deciding on an emeraldcolored blouse and a matching wrap skirt. She added a simple gold chain necklace and gold earrings for jewelry. Patent leather sandal heels and a matching purse completed her attire. She was just in time. Drake was due in the next few minutes. After grabbing her purse, she headed into the living room. The two dozen red roses had the whole room sweetly scented. She’d taken much ribbing from her coworkers about who sent them. She’d kept them guessing, refusing to give them a name. Although her first instinct had been to be annoyed that he’d had them delivered to her place of business, she had really been surprised and pleased. The flicker of hope from yesterday was growing. The roar of his sports car alerted her to his arrival. She smiled. The weather was perfect for a ride with the top down. She’d put a scarf in her purse just in case. Her heart beat double-time when he knocked. When she opened the door, he stepped in, kicked the door shut, and pulled her into his arms. He kissed her thoroughly before stepping back and giving her the once-over. “Perfect. I love you in that color.” His hands cradled her face and tipped her chin up. He kissed her forehead, her cheeks, her chin, and then captured her mouth again. His tongue teased hers. One arm brought her snug against his arousal. “Feel my hard cock. I want to bury myself in your hot pussy.”

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Shivers ran up her spine, and she pulsed below with a deep yearning. His words had shocked her, and set her whole body aching for him. Forcing herself to take control, Janice pushed against his shoulders. “Let me go. This is not the way to convince me you care.” Reluctantly, he did. “I know. I have to buy a ranch, and prove I can settle down.” “That will happen in a blue moon.” “You’ll eat those words. I’ll make a pact with you. If I buy a ranch, quit my present job, and settle there, you will marry me.” “I’m sure it’s safe to say yes. It will never happen. You on a ranch. What do you know about running one?” “It can’t be too hard?” She laughed. “I’ll be a little old lady before you run a ranch.” “Let’s go. We’ll be late for dinner and our play.” He put his arm around her and walked her to his car. “Do you mind the top down tonight?” “I love it. It’s cool and so pleasant out. I have my scarf.” He turned left, heading to the outskirts of the city. “A friend of mine runs a great Mexican restaurant near the playhouse. Sit back and relax, we have about fifteen miles to go.” Janice did as he said. The cool air was scented with the fragrance of spring flowers blooming. The moon and a sprinkling of stars shone against the velvet black sky. All the tension from the past two months began to fade. As usual, Drake drove fast, but competently. They’d just gone around a curve when she heard him swear. The car swerved before he regained control. He frowned. “What’s wrong?” “The brakes are gone,” he said tersely. “There’s an S curve ahead. We won’t have slowed much before we hit it.” She saw the curve coming toward them fast. She kept her eyes on him. He hadn’t panicked. He was focused on the road.

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“I hope to hell we don’t meet anyone.” He let the car go into the curve, staying in the middle of the road then sliding more into the left lane on the following curve. The tires squealed and fear rushed through Janice. They made it out of the curve and onto a flat, straight road. Drake let the car gradually slow until he could safely pull to the side. He flipped open his cell and called for assistance. Turning to Janice, he said, “They’ll be here in about twenty minutes. This day isn’t going quite the way I expected. First, a shelf barely missed falling on my head this morning, and tonight we almost have a wreck because of bad brakes. I’m going to give my mechanic hell when I see him.” “Maybe it wasn’t his fault. Can’t brakes just wear out?” “Not when you have them checked frequently.” He glanced at his watch. “Looks like it will be dinner or a play. We won’t have time for both.” “Dinner, I’m hungry.” “I’ll call and change our reservation.” After his call, he sat back and stared at her. “What? Did I forget to powder my nose?” “Come here.” He slid his seat back and pulled her onto his lap. “We have a few minutes before we’re rescued. I intend to enjoy them.” His warm fingers began to unbutton her blouse. “You have this fastened up like a spinster schoolteacher. There.” He’d undone the first three. His hand moved inside her blouse and bra and cupped her breast. Exquisite pleasure exploded inside her at his touch. His thumb rubbed across her peaked nipple, sending heat straight to her pussy. She wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. His tongue did a sensual dance with hers, setting her whole body afire with desire. She wriggled around to lie more closely against his broad chest. “Do that again and you’ll find yourself making love in a sports

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car. Not too comfortable, but manageable.” His husky tone deepened her hunger. She maneuvered her leg across his lap and straddled him. His pulsing, hot cock was right against her lower lips. His hand slipped inside her panties, and his finger caressed her swollen nub. His mouth covered hers, and his teeth bit lightly on her bottom lip. At the same time, he put two fingers into her pussy. “Ah, yes,” she moaned into his mouth. “You’re wet and hot. Damn, I may explode if I don’t get inside that pussy soon.” He pulled back from her and flipped his cell open. “Jack, come pick us up.” He gave the directions and closed the phone. “Now, my sweet, unless you want to be embarrassed, you’d better get back in your seat. I see a wrecker coming over the hill.” Janice jumped across and into place just before the wrecker got close. At least, she hoped he wasn’t near enough to see what was going on. She took off her scarf and busied herself with combing her hair out. If she looked at the man, she’d blush. Laughing, Drake got out to greet him. Drake handed him a card and the man nodded, and then went to his wrecker and turned to back up to the sports car. “You’ll have to get out now, darlin’, unless you want to ride in the car to the shop.” She ignored his teasing. The man had no inhibitions. He’d probably have just said, “Hello, give us a minute, pal. We’ll be right with you,” and not felt embarrassed at all. She was shocked at her own behavior. She’d never ever put herself in a position where she was in the open, and anyone coming along could see them. “Sure you folks will be all right out here until your ride comes for ya? It’s getting darker.” “Thanks for the concern. We’re fine. My chauffeur will be here shortly.” “All right.” The man sounded dubious, but got in his truck and started off, towing the fancy sports car behind.

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“I never thought I’d see the day that baby would fail me,” Drake said. “It’s just a car. They can break down.” “Just a car! Honey, that’s a Lamborghini.” “It still has mechanical parts that can fail.” “Obviously, you don’t know cars.” She shrugged. “They’ve never been important to me.” She had to laugh at his expression. “I think it’s a man thing.” She wasn’t sure, but he might have groaned. The wrecker taillights went out of sight, and the sun was sinking fast. “Will your car be here soon?” Drake wrapped his arms around her. “You’re not frightened of the dark are you? I promise I can handle any thing or person who comes along.” “You sound very confident.” “Believe me, I’ve been in worse spots.” The tone of his voice made her stare at him. He peered off into the distance. The lines of his face drawn and his mouth tight. She started to ask him about what he meant, and stopped. Something warned her away from that conversation. He pulled her close to his warm body. She wrapped her arms around his middle and leaned into him. He ran his fingers through her hair and kissed her forehead. “The first thing I noticed about you was your hair. The gold and red strands glowed in the sunlight. The wind blew against your clothes, molding the material to your curvy body. You took my breath away.” His words ran like warm honey through her veins, warming her from the inside out. The love she’d been fighting flooded through. What was she going to do? She didn’t really believe he intended to change. His lips softly touched hers, and he held her snug. She felt the beat of his heart. She might as well enjoy what he offered her. She’d hurt when he left, and either way, at least if they made love she’d have her memories.

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Chapter Four He was right, his chauffeur was fast. “We’ll go on to dinner. I’m afraid your wild mood has passed,” Drake said. “For the moment,” she said, and smiled. “Really? That’s an encouraging statement.” He helped her into the back seat of the plush limousine. “We’re not too far from the restaurant.” Fifteen minutes later, the limo pulled into the parking area. The owner, a tall, slim, blond man greeted them at the door. “So you had trouble, my friend. Unusual for you.” “True, but we made it. Frank, this is Janice Dedrick. Janice, Frank Primus. We go back a long way. He surprised all his friends when he and his wife opened this restaurant.” Drake looked around. “Business is good.” “We’ve been lucky. Of course, my wife’s culinary skills help. She’ll be out later to see you. I’ve arranged your favorite table. Jack can eat in the kitchen with us.” Frank led them to a secluded table by a window that looked out on a lighted pond. Orchids hung from baskets, among the greenery. “How lovely,” Janice said. She’d moved along the booth close enough to get a good view of the garden. When Drake’s leg brushed hers, she turned to find he’d sat beside her. “There’s a seat across from me.” “I know.” He gave her his heart-stopping smile. She swore she forgot her name when he did that. “Here are your menus. I’ll be right back.” Frank handed them menus and left.

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“You all know each other well.” “Frank and his wife did some business with me. They met Jack during that time. What do you want to eat? I can vouch for anything on the menu.” Frank returned with chips and salsa. “Are you ready to order?” Janice stared at the long list of options. “I can never decide. I’ll stick with the chicken enchiladas.” Drake ordered steak fajitas and a bottle of merlot. Frank hurried away with their order. A young, lovely, dark-haired girl brought the wine to their table. “Maria, you’ve grown beautiful,” Drake said. The girl blushed. “Maria, I want you to meet a special lady, Janice Dedrick. Janice, Maria is Frank’s daughter, and I’m her godfather. Doing good in school?” “Yes, Uncle Drake, I made all A’s this semester.” “Still planning on medical school?” “Yes. I’d better hurry back to the kitchen. Mama is very busy. Nice to meet you, Ms. Dedrick.” Janice was puzzled. Drake and Frank had a much closer relationship than he’d indicated. “Uncle?” “Honorary. Frank and Estella didn’t want her calling me Drake, and Mr. Terrell was too formal.” “You are a mysterious man,” Janice said. “I won’t be for long.” She chose not to comment, but studied her surroundings. The tile floor was a reddish brown. The motif was all Mexican. A border of tile with red and blue colors edged the wall by the table. Several men dressed in Mexican attire played soft music in the background. Wonderful spicy scents came from the kitchen to whet their appetite. Frank moved among his guests, smiling and talking. The colorful atmosphere was pleasant and relaxing. Estella came out briefly to meet Janice, then hurried back to cook.

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Soon the food was delivered sizzling hot on the plate. She and Drake talked about Samantha and Jackson, their mutual friends. The conversation flowed easily, but occasionally Drake brushed his leg against her or touched her hand. His musky scent surrounded her, and the heat from his body made her hot and achy. Janice gulped down the cool wine. One more touch, and she’d melt into a puddle of need. She was still hungry, but not for food. “It’s very hot in here,” she whispered to Drake. “Do you think we might go somewhere cool?” “I thought you’d never ask. I know just the spot.” In minutes, he had paid the bill, said good-bye to his friends, and they were in the limo headed back toward town. Drake pulled the curtain between Jack and them. “Come here.” His arms reached for her, and she threw herself against him. Hard lips covered hers. His hand covered her breast and rubbed the nipple through her blouse. She was hot. She ripped her blouse open. Drake unfastened her bra and pushed her blouse and bra off. He immediately put his hot mouth over her pebbled nipple and sucked. Janice’s pussy clenched with desire and drenched her panties with moisture. She straddled his lap and moved against his wide, hard cock. She held his head tight against her breast and ran her hand through his soft hair. He moved back and forth between her breasts, sucking, licking, taking a nip at her ripe, rosy nipples. “Damn, you taste and smell good. Raise up, just a little.” He moved one finger under her wet panties and rubbed her clit, then slid along the wet folds to her pussy and moved his finger deep inside. Janice shuddered with intense pleasure. He pushed her to the side. “Get those damn things off.” She yanked her panties off and heard his zipper being lowered. Drake ripped a condom package open and put it on, then lifted her back onto his lap. His cock pulsed against her wet opening. She gradually moved down, taking his wide cock deep inside her tight passage. He was big, and she hadn’t been with anyone in a long time.

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“Easy, baby, take me gradual. I don’t want to hurt you. You’re so damn tight and hot. Ah,” he moaned when she cupped his balls. “That’s the way.” With one hand he cupped her breast and teased her nipple. With the other, he separated her swollen folds and rubbed her clit. Her breathing came fast and her heartbeat soared. Fire licked along every nerve ending as she took him in all the way. She began to move slowly out and in. He grasped her hips and increased the tempo. A burst of sensual pleasure rose inside and exploded into a myriad of colors. Her scream was caught in his kiss as he pulled her mouth to his and plunged one more time deep inside her. He held her tight as their hearts thumped hard against their chests. As their breaths slowed, Janice drifted back to reality and her surroundings. The windows on the limo were darkened and the road they traveled not well lit. Hopefully she’d not given a show to passing motorist. Her face went hot at the thought. Embarrassed by her behavior, she climbed off Drake’s lap and grabbed her clothes off the floor. All the while she felt Drake staring at her. “This is the first time you’ve made love out of a bed, isn’t it?” She didn’t look at him. “Yes, so what?” “Ah, a bit defensive. I’m glad I’m the first person to get you to let down your walls and enjoy yourself.” Janice took a quick look in his direction. “Don’t be so smug. I had too much wine. It won’t happen again.” “Oh, yes it will. Want me to prove it?” He ran his finger across her cheek. “You blush beautifully. I like everything about you Janice, from your rosy cheeks to your pink pussy.” “Stop talking that way.” He leaned close. “My poor darling. No one has been brave enough to ever talk dirty with you? I’m very brave, and I intend to shock you many times. I promise you’ll enjoy it.” Clothes back on and buttoned, Janice sat back in her seat. “What

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if I don’t like the way you talk or the things you do?” “I’ll stop. Shall I take you home instead of to my house? Say the word, love. Yes or no?” She hated that he’d cornered her. It was her own fault, but already her body had responded to him and his talk. She was simply unable to say yes, and feared saying no. He’d show her a wonderful time and then leave, maybe for good the next time. Yet, she wanted him and everything he’d give her. **** His home sat on a hill. There didn’t appear to be another house nearby. They’d driven up a winding drive with woods flanking the road. Lights lit the wide entrance. The chauffeur let them out at the door and drove on toward the garage, situated to the left and separate from the main residence. Janice studied the house in front of her. The portico had white, rounded columns lining the front. The two-story building reminded her of a mansion, from the old South, that she’d seen. That home had also had a balcony on the second floor. When she stepped inside the foyer and living room, she found they were decorated in the old Southern style. Drake observed her the whole time. “Do you like my place?” “Yes, I do. I grew up in Georgia, and there was a house on a hill, a very small hill, and it was white, with columns, almost exactly like this one.” She turned around, putting her arms out to include the whole area. “I used to dream about the people that lived there. I never saw anyone. I dreamed someday I’d find my Prince Charming, and he and I would live in the beautiful white house on the hill.” Her face went hot realizing what she’d said. He took her hand. “Come on. I’ll show you the rest. Perhaps I’ll turn into your Prince Charming.” He glanced her way. “Charming, yes, my Prince, we’ve yet to see.”

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“You’re a hard woman, Janice Dedrick.” He grabbed her and kissed her. “Just wait. You have many surprises coming soon.” He stopped in the doorway to a large family room off a modern kitchen. “This room I insisted have good, comfortable chairs, a large-screen TV, and it already had a tile fireplace.” “I love it all. Your decorator did a fantastic job of having the front rooms complement the older style of the house, and yet here and in the kitchen you have all the conveniences.” “You can compliment my decorator when I take you to meet my family in the next week or so.” “Your mother?” “You didn’t think I’d hatched from an egg, I hope. I have the requisite mother, father, and two brothers.” Janice had walked around the room, giving the furnishings a closer look. She faced Drake. “Two brothers, no sister?” “Mom says she’s been outnumbered for years. She expects all her boys to marry and have daughters for her to spoil.” When he talked about his family, his smile and voice were different. It was obvious that he loved his parents and brothers. His soft tone and sweet smile said it all. “But you got me sidetracked. There’s a room upstairs I want you to see.” Taking her hand, he led the way. On the landing, he opened double doors to the right. His bedroom. Floor-to-ceiling windows flanked a huge bed. The walls were a cream color, with the bedspread and curtains a mixture of cream and blue. Janice stepped inside and her shoes sank into soft, dark blue carpet. The bed, bedside tables, chest of drawers, and chairs were made of mahogany and polished to a high shine. Soft music played from some unknown spot. “I doubt you’d have difficulty seducing anyone in this room.” His low chuckle had her toes curling. “Always the smart retort. I love it.” He put his hand at the base of her spine and directed her to an open door on the left. “I thought we’d

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try out the shower first.” His bath, done in cream and light browns, held a large, jet tub, an even larger shower, dual sinks, and a warming rack for towels. Janice walked to the shower and peeked around the tile wall. There were several jets placed around to hit a body from many angles, and the area was big enough to hold three or four people. “Do you have orgies in here?” “I’ve considered it.” His hands began to unbutton her blouse. “You talk too much.” He kissed her mouth then continued to undress her. She joined him and unbuttoned his shirt. His lips moved down her body as he bent to undo her skirt and yank her panties down. When he straightened, Janice unfastened his belt, his pants button, and lowered his zipper. In a second, he threw off his clothes and had her in the shower. The cool water pulsed over their hot bodies. Drake lathered his hands and began to caress her breasts, giving special attention to her peaked nipples. The sensation of warmth, gentle caresses, and light brushes across her peaks melted away any reserve or hesitation. Heat and need slid directly down to her pussy, increasing her hunger to have his cock stroking her inside. Her legs went weak. She put her arms around his neck and rubbed her body against his chest. The fine, brown hairs replaced his hands as he cupped her face and kissed her deeply. Janice wrapped one lathered hand around his wide, hard cock, and the other cupped his balls. Her finger made light traces across the head of his cock, and then rubbed around the edge. “Ah, baby,” Drake moaned. He bent his forehead against hers. “What am I going to do about you?” “Make love to me, I hope.” She rubbed up and down his length. “You’re so hard, and yet your skin is like satin.” She pushed him against the wall and knelt to take him into her mouth. Her tongue tasted him, then she took him in deeper. He groaned and ran his fingers through her hair. Tightening her lips around him, she took him

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deep and then pulled back, gradually creating a rhythm. She felt herself getting wetter with desire as she sucked, and gently touched his balls. His hands tightened briefly. “Stop, come here.” He lifted her onto her feet and turned her facing the tile. He turned the faucets off. “Spread your legs.” She did, and then heard a ripping sound and saw he’d grabbed a condom from somewhere. She faced the wall again as he came behind her. His hands reached around and covered her breasts. He took charge. His teeth nibbled on the side of her neck while his fingers caressed her breasts and brushed across her peaked nipples. His kisses moved down to her shoulders and his one hand slid along her stomach until his fingers separated her folds and found her most sensitive spot. Drake surrounded her. His breath blew air over her neck, creating tiny shivers. His hand held her breast snug and rubbed across her tight nipple. Below, his fingers slid along her wet folds to her pussy. He put one finger inside, and her inner muscles clenched around him. “You want me?” he whispered in her ear. “Yes.” He positioned himself and slowly pushed inside her. His fingers rubbed across her clit as he entered from behind. His other arm wrapped around her body as his hand held tight to her breast. “You’re so hot, and tight.” Drake pushed harder, deeper into her. “Let go, honey. Give it to me.” She tightened around him and moved her buttocks closer against his hard frame. He quickened his pace and her heartbeat pounded against her chest. Her hunger had her clenching and unclenching against him, trying to relieve the building pressure. He pushed harder and faster, and then went deep and hard as he put slight pressure on her nub and pinched her nipple. Pleasure exploded inside her and she screamed. Her insides so sensitive she felt each of his pulsing releases. Her head bent against the cool tile. His arm the only thing keeping

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her from sinking to the shower floor. His raspy breath right beside her ear. “Honey, you are going to kill me yet.” Drake’s husky voice rumbled through her. “Not if you kill me first,” she teased, and turned to face him. Her arms went around his neck, and her body pressed against his warmth. He hugged her close. When they’d both regained their breath and strength, Drake stepped out and grabbed a towel off the warming rack. He put it around Janice and then got one for himself, wrapping it around his middle. He took her towel and began to dry her, brushing his lips along her skin as he went. When he’d finished, he picked her up and took her into the bedroom. Reaching down, he pulled his spread back and placed her on his bed. He stood studying her. “I’d like to have you painted in that pose. Your beautiful white skin and fiery hair against the cream-colored satin sheets. Only I don’t want anyone else to see you this way, but me.” **** Drake put a knee on the bed. He’d already gone hard again. Her scent, a mixture of violets and desire, her glowing skin, and that sexy smile had heat flashing along every nerve in his body. At first, the slight sound didn’t get through to him. He’d leaned forward toward her when he heard a noise. He raised his head and looked at his clock. After midnight, and someone was downstairs. “Stay here,” he whispered. He grabbed his jeans from the floor, putting them on as he went out. He walked softly across the carpeted floor and down the stairs. A hiss, and a flick, and he saw the reflection of gold and red before he got to the kitchen. Running now, he crossed the family room as a dark figure ran out

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the side door. “Stop.” In the kitchen, flames licked across his cabinets. The smoke alarm beeped loudly. He grabbed the fire extinguisher from the wall and shot its contents toward the fire. “Janice,” he yelled, hoping she’d hear him. She must have heard the alarm. “I’m here,” she hollered from the family room. “I dressed as soon as you left. I’ve called 911.” She held out the phone. “Good girl. Get out of here. I’m going to try and slow the fire down until help gets here.” “No, leave with me. I won’t go without you.” He frowned at her. “The place can explode at any moment.” Clouds of smoke rose around them. Drake ran to her, and they rushed outside. Flames ran up the side of the house now, a red glow against the black sky. Jack came running from the direction of the garage. Drake pulled a hose around and directed the water toward the house. Jack carried another hose over his shoulder. He fastened it to a nearby spigot and joined Drake. In the distance, Drake heard sirens. “Move further back,” he yelled to Janice as sparks flew everywhere. Anger filled him at the thought of someone deliberately setting the fire. The house could be rebuilt, but if they’d been sleeping, they might not have awakened in time, even with the alarms. He’d already been down the stairs before the first one went off. Fire trucks came to a squealing stop and firemen poured off the truck and around the house. Their captain yelled at Drake and Jack to get back out of the way. Drake strode across the lawn to where Janice stood, her arms wrapped tight around her and tears in her eyes. “Are you all right?” “Yes, but your beautiful house is ruined.” Drake hugged her trembling frame. “No one got hurt. That’s what is most important.” A tentative smile crossed her face. “Aren’t you cold?” He peered down at his bare chest and jeans hanging low on his hips. He grinned. “I forgot all about my clothes. Thank goodness I

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didn’t run downstairs naked. I might have shocked the firemen.” Drake kissed the top of her head. “I’m going to have Jack take you home.” He pulled her tighter against him. “I’ll stay here. I need to talk with the fire marshal and the police.” “What do you have to report to the police? I see a police car, but I thought the fire marshal decided what started it all.” “He does, but it will be a police matter, too, since I saw a man running from my kitchen just when the fire started.” Drake motioned to Jack. Jack joined them. “Take her home. See her safe inside with the door locked before you leave. I’ll walk with you to the garage. Stay here, honey. Jack will drive the car around and pick you up.” He gave her a quick kiss and strolled down the lane to the garage. “Jack, I’m going to call my brother, Brent. I need around-theclock coverage for Janice. I don’t want her to know, so it needs to be a crew who knows how to stay out of sight. If I told her what I’m planning, she’d insist she didn’t need protection.” Drake stopped at the garage door. “There have been two strikes against me tonight, both in her company. My gut feeling is he wanted to get Janice and me. Who and why, I don’t know. I’m depending on you to stay close to her until relief comes. Park the car out of sight, and watch the house. I’ll be in touch.” “Sure, boss.” Drake flipped his phone on and rang his parents’ home.

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Chapter Five Janice thanked Jack and started to step inside her front door. “Let me go first,” Jack said and placed himself in front of her. “Drake wanted me to check your place out. He’s concerned about you.” “I don’t understand why, but go ahead.” She didn’t want to admit it, but she was glad to have him with her going through the empty rooms. She’d seen the gun he’d pulled out from under his coat. He wasn’t just a chauffeur. “Your place is nice,” Jack commented when they returned to the living room. “You should be fine. Remember to lock this door after me and”—he glanced more closely at her lock— “you need to get a locksmith to put on a better deadbolt. Yours is too short.” He nodded at her and left, clicking the door shut behind him. Janice heard him waiting to hear her fasten the lock. After she did, he took long strides along her walkway and climbed into the car. She watched until his taillights went out of sight. A slight chill ran along her spine at the realization she was alone. Silly, he checked everything. She walked into her bedroom and began to undress. After slipping on her nightgown, she crawled into bed and lay alert to all the noises outside her window. A car horn honked in the far distance. Wind ruffled the limbs of the tall oak right outside her room. She’d never felt so alone. She waited for the phone call. When she blinked her eyes and saw ten o’clock and the sun shining, she couldn’t believe she’d slept so sound. Of course, she hadn’t gotten home until after two. With two emergencies in one night and all the emotion flowing between her and Drake, she’d been

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exhausted. She glanced at her phone. No phone calls, either. Maybe her tormenter had given up and was pestering someone else. Not that she’d wish him on another person. She took a shower to get more fully awake, and then brewed a cup of coffee. She’d just taken her first sip when the phone rang. “Janice, Drake here.” “Hi. How is the house after the fire? Are you going to be able to rebuild, or have to raze it?” “I’m going to be meeting with a man I know about rebuilding the portion that burned. He has his own company, and I trust him. Sorry to say, but I’m going to be busy all day. The police and fire marshal have both checked the house, and later tonight, I have to fly to Washington. I’ll be in touch. Wish I had time to see you. Stay safe, love.” “Don’t worry about me. You’re the one who has had terrible luck. They say it comes in threes, so you should be all right after this.” “Still, watch yourself. I should be back by Wednesday or Thursday. I’m thinking we might fly to Jackson’s for a visit. What do you think?” “I’d love it. I haven’t seen Samantha in months.” “Good. Plan on taking a few extra days, plus the weekend. I have several things I want to show you.” “How deliciously mysterious. Have a good trip.” He laughed. “I love your quirky humor. It’s much needed today.” She hung the receiver back in place and put her coffee in the microwave for a warm-up. Well, she had the whole day to rest. She’d always enjoyed having a quiet day to catch up on reading, gardening, and various chores around the house. But today unease had settled on her like a heavy cloak she couldn’t remove. **** Janice put her purse in the desk drawer and sank into her

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comfortable office chair. She’d come in early. Yesterday seemed to go on forever, but she’d slept well last night and hadn’t received any more calls. Several files had been placed on her desk. She started to open the first one when she realized a newspaper was underneath the files. It was unusual for her to get a paper. The delivery boy must have left it on her desk by mistake. She opened the folded paper and the front page picture jumped out at her. Drake’s house burned in the background. Drake held her in his arms. Thank goodness the only thing showing was the top of her head. She recalled him moving her around. She’d thought he’d been protecting her from being exposed to the firemen and policemen. But he must have seen the reporter. The caption read, Who is the mystery woman with billionaire Drake Terrell? He protected her identity from the bystanders and hustled her off in his private limo. Thank goodness they hadn’t identified her. She definitely didn’t want the notoriety. After giving the picture a last glance, she noted a small sticky note to the right of the article. Shaky, faint lines of words had her squinting to read the message. “Do you like having your picture in the news? Too bad they didn’t show your whoring face.” Janice dropped the picture and looked around her room. He’d been in her office. She buzzed her secretary. “Come in, please.” Her secretary, an older woman with gray hair and a motherly smile, entered the office with her notepad in hand. Janice held up the paper. “Did you see who delivered this?” “No.” The woman glanced at her desk. “I left those three files for you on Friday. I’m sorry about running late today, but I just got in about five minutes before you.” She wrinkled her forehead. “You don’t usually get a paper. Did you order it?”

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Janice shook her head no. “Thank you, that’s all I needed. I’ll check around and see if anyone missed getting their morning edition.” “I can do that for you,” her secretary offered. “No. I’d prefer to follow up on this myself.” After giving her a puzzled look, her secretary went out. How did he get in here? She had no doubt the man who’d been calling her either brought this in or paid someone to do it. A creepy sensation ran across her shoulders. Was her stalker working at this firm? She took the paper and began a tour of the other offices. No one she met had any idea how she got the paper. Several gave her strange looks. They must think I’m crazy to worry about a paper. Finally, she gave up and went back to her work. She’d go by the police station this afternoon. The paper and note would show the phone calls had progressed to stalking. By five o’clock she’d only gotten through two of the files on her desk. Her unease didn’t go away. With a sense of relief, she cleaned the top of her desk off, got out her purse, and started to walk out. Her phone rang at the moment her hand wrapped around the doorknob. Did she want to deal with any problems this late? Her boss had a habit of finding work for her to do at the very last minute. She opened the door and saw her secretary had left. Good. Ignoring the phone, she closed her door behind her and took long strides to the nearest elevator. Once she was out of the revolving door on the ground floor, she took a deep breath. She walked across the street to the parking garage, got her car, and drove to the police station. It was time she demanded more action on her case. She had the newspaper in her briefcase. Waiting had never been her favorite activity, and she’d never learned to be patient. Apparently a number of people wanted to be seen today. The station bustled with uniformed officers, other staff in suits, and numerous residents of the city who had a request or complaint. After forty-five interminable minutes, Janice gave up and left the newspaper and note in an envelope for the detective on her

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case. Restless, she didn’t want to go home yet. Some of the staff went to a nearby bar after work for drinks and socializing. She seldom joined them, but tonight she decided she needed the company. She’d drive back to the parking garage by the office and walk from there. They’d think she’d worked late. Darkness greeted her when she stepped into the Cat and Mouse Club. She blinked to help her eyes adjust to the dim lights. People crowded around the bar and most of the tables were full. She stood to the side, hoping to see a familiar face. Two hands waved from a back, corner table. One was a fellow attorney, the other a secretary from the second floor. Janice wove her way around the tables to greet them and the others sitting in a table meant for five, but holding seven. “Join us,” one of the women said. Stuart, an attorney who had started at the firm shortly after her, got up and gave Janice his seat. “I’ll get a chair.” He rushed off toward a table with three people and four chairs. “Wow, we almost never see you in here,” one of the younger secretaries said. “I stopped on impulse. Some Mondays are harder than others.” “You can say that again. I’ll drink to taking Mondays off the calendar.” The woman, sitting squeezed between two of the more handsome attorneys, appeared to be well on her way in her drinking. When a harried-looking waitress stopped by the table, Janice ordered white wine and several appetizers. She needed to eat when she drank, and the others looked like they might enjoy some food. Several of them cheered when she ordered nachos and a variety platter. Janice studied the group while she waited for her drink. Most were younger than her, and new to the office. She was seldom included when they went in groups to lunch or planned outings such as dinner. Her father, having been one of the original partners and

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now a judge, put her in a different position in their minds. Even their conversation dated her. She’d spent the years since graduation solidifying her position at the firm. Her promotions had come from hard work, not from her name. But she doubted they believed that. A band had started to play and the volume of noise between people talking and the music pounded against her eardrums. “How’s your firm to work for?” one of the junior associates asked the man sitting next to the woman on Janice’s right. Janice hadn’t gotten a good look at him. She bent forward to see him and hear his answer. She knew him. He’d worked at her firm when she first came out of school. He’d left about six months later. What was his name? She listened as he described his benefits and said he was much happier where he’d gone. Clyde. The name jumped into her mind. He’d asked her out once, but she’d just become engaged. He conversed with the ones on the other side of the table. When he turned his head and his eyes met hers, she realized she’d been staring at him. Did he frown at her? If so, he covered it quickly with a smile. “Janice, do you remember me?” he asked. “I do, Clyde. It’s been a long time. I’m glad to hear you’re happy at your job.” He shrugged. “There didn’t seem to be much chance of promotion in your firm. They went to the favored few.” Someone gasped. He smiled, but it was more a sneer. “Forgive me. I didn’t mean that the way it sounded. I’m sure all your promotions were well deserved.” Their waitress arrived with the drinks and food. Janice decided to let his remark go unchallenged. She raised her glass to him. “No offense taken. Good luck in your career.” “Hear, hear,” someone shouted, and they all raised their glasses. Soon laughter flowed around the group again. Janice drank her drink, ate a few of the appetizers, and pretended

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to enjoy herself. Clyde finished his drink and asked the woman beside him and her to move so he could go. “Time to get home. I’ll see you guys around.” The group shouted good-bye. Janice watched him on his way out. At the door, he looked back and caught her staring again. He laughed, waved, and disappeared out the door. She waited for another twenty minutes and finally managed to break loose from the ones who wanted to continue on to another place. “Not me,” she said. “I’ll see you tomorrow in the office. It’s been fun.” Liar, she couldn’t wait to get out of the noise and fake laughter. Two of the women at the table had much too much to drink, and things appeared to be heading downhill. Cool night air greeted her when she got through the crowd and outside. Few people were around and her uneasiness came back on the way to her car. Walking back in the dark, alone, wasn’t such a great idea. She reached in her purse for her small pepper spray bottle. Her hand searched and finally connected with the vial. Feeling more confident with it snug in her hand, she stepped into the garage. Lights were lit at intervals, but still left corners full of shadows. She shivered. When the elevator door opened it was empty. She hurried on and pushed the button for level three. Her heart began to beat faster. Silly, I’m scaring myself. The button dinged and the door slid open. She’d parked in the third row about halfway down. Her heels clicked loud on the concrete floor. She saw no one and heard no cars coming or going. There was her car, at last. She moved faster toward the driver’s door, put in her key, jumped into her seat, and locked all the doors at once. She’d made—what the hell was written on her windshield? Leaning forward she read the large red letters. Die, Whore, Die. Janice put in her key and prayed whoever had written the note hadn’t tampered with her car. She turned her key and the engine started. Relief washed over her. Her hands trembled and tears poured

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down her face. She considered wiping the paint off, but feared whoever wrote the message might be lurking behind a car. At least the letters didn’t block her view completely. She’d wait until she got to the toll booth before getting out of her car. She backed up and drove too fast around the curves to the bottom floor. When she stopped at the gate, the guard frowned. “I heard your tires squealing. Slow down, lady before you have an accident,” he snapped at her. “Look at my windshield. Did you see anybody sneaking around?” The man frowned. “No one. Very few people have come for their cars. Most of them are still in the bars and restaurants nearby.” Janice put her car in park and got out. “Do you have anything I can use to clean my windshield?” He grumbled, but handed her a bottle of water and a paper towel. She poured the water across the glass and the red flowed like blood over her hood. The frowning man shoved the full roll of paper towels at her. Thank goodness no one else came along wanting to pay and get out of the garage. It took her a good twenty minutes, two bottles of water, and almost the whole roll of towels before the windshield was clean enough for her to drive the car. “Thanks,” she told the man inside the booth. “I’ll replace your water and paper towels.” She handed him the money for her toll and turned toward home. She’d had a long, stressful day. Once she was safe inside her house, she’d call the police and report the latest incident. Not that they’d find any clues. Whoever it was must be a ghost. Never seen or heard from except in the dead of night. When she’d parked in her garage and lowered the door, she gave a sigh of relief. She looked around to make sure no one was hiding behind a box or the other clutter. Once out of the car she sprinted to the back door and let herself in. She doubled-checked all the locks and didn’t remember until she went to the front door that she’d forgotten to have her lock changed. Sinking into the soft cushions of her sofa, she covered her face

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with her hands. Her life had become a nightmare in a short period of time. Samantha would never believe her logical, always calm and prepared friend was falling apart. **** “Drake, there’s something going on here I don’t think you know about,” Brent said. “Concerning Janice?” “Yeah. She went to the police station after work then went back and parked across from her office. My guy followed her to a bar and grill. He stayed by the bar and then covered her as she walked alone to her car. It was after dark. He said she appeared anxious, dug in her purse, and pulled out a container that looked like pepper spray.” “Did someone bother her?” Drake interrupted. “No. She got in the car all right. Our guy had to stay a good distance from her, or she’d have seen him and panicked. He said she drove out of there like a maniac. He ran down the steps and saw her at the gate...” “Was another car following behind her?” Drake interrupted and asked. “No, but someone had written, ‘Die, Whore, Die,’ in big red letters on her windshield. She stopped at the gate to clean off the words, and my guy was able to get to his car and trail her home.” “And he saw no one that appeared suspicious anywhere around?” “Nothing obvious, but there was a good deal of traffic until they got on the outskirts of town. The guard at the house reported her turning on all the lights, and he’s pretty sure she was checking the front door locks.” “Jack told her to get that one changed, but she probably hasn’t had time to do it.” “Any idea who’s she afraid of?” Brent asked. “None. She hasn’t indicated any problems.”

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“Well, I have a bit of other bad news. Your car brakes were tampered with. I talked to the owner of the shop. He swears he was the only one to work on your car, and says all his staff has been with him several years, except one. I checked the new guy out. He transferred from another job in town to be closer to his home. Story appears to be solid, but we’re doing more researching on all of them.” “And my house?” “You knew the fire was caused by an unknown person. I know you thought you were the main target, and you didn’t want it to spill over to your lady. I think you’re wrong. She’s the target. Why the person or persons wants to hit at you, too, I’m not sure. How serious is this relationship?” “This might be the one.” “Ah, then my guess is someone else wants her for their own. And if he can’t have her, he’s going to make sure you both pay.” “You can’t be right. I got the impression she’s been all work and no play for a long time.” Brent didn’t comment except to add, “I suppose you want us to stay on this?” “Right. I’ll try and clear out my business here in Washington quickly. Meanwhile don’t let her take a step alone. In fact, I think I’ll let her know about the guards. If I call her now, how soon can you be at her place?” “I’m standing outside now with my man.” “I’ll ring you back when it’s time to go to her door.” Drake clicked off and rang Janice. “Hello?” Janice said. Drake noted the caution in her voice. “How are things going, honey?” “Drake, I’m relieved to hear your voice.” “You don’t sound good. Is something wrong?” “I’ve had a stressful Monday.” “Want to tell me about it?”

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“Not really. I’m trying to forget.” “Janice, you know you can tell me anything. I’ll help you with any problem.” Drake glanced at the phone. Frustration seeped into every pore. He wanted and needed to be with her. Her tone told him she wasn’t all right. After what his brother had relayed, his concern for her safety had spiked. “I appreciate the offer. Perhaps we can talk when you get back.” “That might not be for several more days.” “Believe me, you can’t help me from a distance.” Edgy irritation came across the phone lines. “I’m closing out my business with the government. I can’t get out of the debriefing. I want to finish and not have to come back.” “You’re quitting your job? Why?” “Did you forget your ultimatum? Settle down, not be flying all over. I decided you were right.” “Whoa, you’re serious?” “Look we’ll talk about this later. I wanted you to know I hired guards to protect you. They’ve been outside your house and following you to work and all since you were taken home.” “You what?” “Let me finish. My brother, Brent, is right outside. This is his business, protecting important people. He’s going to introduce himself and assure you you’ll be protected until I can return and do it for you.” “But it was your car and house that had problems.” “Neither was an accident, and both times you were with me.” “I wasn’t with you when the shelf fell.” “True. I checked the bolts holding the edges tight to the wall. They’d been messed with. One or both of us are targets. Humor me and let my brother handle your safety.” He waited, impatient to hear her accept his offer. She’d be protected whether she agreed on not, but he’d like to have her accept the help. They were more apt to be successful in protecting her if they

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didn’t have to hide from her and the bad guy, whoever he was. “You think all this is necessary?” “I do.” “Okay, send your brother in. I’d like to meet him. I’m going to find out all your childhood secrets.” Drake chuckled. “Not a chance. Brent is well trained to not talk. Good night, Janice.” He put down the phone and sat on the bed in his hotel room. He’d get out of here tomorrow. He’d call Jackson to help with the deal on the land near his property. By tomorrow night, he’d be flying Janice to meet his parents and away from what was frightening her.

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Chapter Six Janice went to the door and peeked out when she heard the knock. A tall man with a definite resemblance to Drake held up his ID. She read his name before unlocking the door. “Come in, Brent. I’m Janice.” “Nice to meet you, Janice.” His slow smile was almost as seductive as his brother’s. He was about the same height, but broader, and his eyes were a light blue. “What in the world did your mama feed you all to grow such big, handsome men?” He grinned. “She made us eat lots of meat and all our vegetables.” “Please sit.” Janice motioned to the large, leather lounge chair. “I’ll get us some iced tea.” “If you don’t mind, I’ll join you in the kitchen.” “Sure, if that’s what you want.” Brent stepped around her when they entered the other room. He pulled her curtains shut. “Doesn’t help much. But keep them shut, and all your other curtains. No sense in making yourself an easy target.” “A target?” Janice had opened the fridge to get the tea. She looked at him. “Yes, a man with a high-powered rifle in the right position can blow someone’s brains out from quite a distance.” Janice felt the blood leave her head. Brent jumped forward, grabbing her and the jug of tea. “Sit, put your head between your legs.” She collapsed into the nearest dining room chair and did as he said. Gradually, the darkness receded and her strength began to return.

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“You certainly are blunt in your descriptions,” Janice said. “Sorry. Mom always said I was too plainspoken.” He put her pitcher safely on the counter. “She was right.” “Look.” He knelt in front of her. “We know you’re frightened of someone. Your behavior today and the words on your car made it pretty obvious. And I suspect the message on your car wasn’t the first you’ve received from this person.” “No, it wasn’t. I’ve been to the police. There are no clues to his identity.” “You’re sure it’s a man?” “Yes.” “All right. I’m going to wait and ask you more questions after Drake gets here. He called me after speaking with you and said no matter what, he’d be here by tomorrow afternoon.” Relief washed over her. Brent looked to be competent and good at his job. Still she wanted Drake with her. She wanted him to wrap her in his arms. Maybe then she’d feel safe. Hopefully when this nightmare was finished, she’d be in good shape physically, and her heart wouldn’t be broken. Brent had straightened and searched her cabinets. He found glasses and put ice in them. “Do you take sugar?” he asked, holding up her sugar bowl. “No. Just a packet of the artificial sweetener on the counter, by the stove.” The man moved around the kitchen with ease. “Is your brother as comfortable in the kitchen as you?” she asked. “Mom made sure we’d never starve from not knowing how to cook.” “She’s a woman I have to meet. I’m not sure my father ever knew where the kitchen was in our house.” Brent shrugged. “Mom was a drill sergeant and taught us a lot of skills that have unexpectedly come in handy.” He sprawled his long

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frame in the chair opposite her. “I’m going to sleep on your couch in there.” He motioned his head toward the living room. “You’re tense, scared, and my guess is you’re not sleeping well. You can rest tonight. My man’s outside, and with me in here, he’d be a fool to come anywhere near you.” “Thanks, but it’s really not necessary.” “It is to Drake and me.” “All right. I’m too tired to argue.” She stood and waited a second to be sure her legs were going to hold her. “See you in the morning. Help yourself to the coffee or any food you want in here.” Janice closed her door, undressed and fell into bed. All this drama was very exhausting. She doubted she’d sleep even with Brent in the other room. She really didn’t know him. When she heard the knock on her bedroom door, she jerked straight up in bed. Her heard pounded double-time. “It’s me, Brent. I’m going to take coffee out to my guy. I thought you might have overslept.” Brushing her hair out of her eyes, Janice looked at the clock. Eight! “Thank you, I did. I’ll be leaving soon.” She jumped out of bed and ran for the shower. Amazing, she had rested and felt much more herself. Evidently it didn’t matter whether the man was a stranger or Drake—she slept wonderfully. She’d tease Drake next time they met. She smiled at the thought. Her first real smile in several days. **** “I like her.” “I’m glad. Not that I need your approval,” Drake said and slapped Brent on the shoulder. “Thanks for being here when I couldn’t.” “Did you get finished in Washington?” Brent asked. He took a sip from his cup of coffee. They’d met in a small coffee shop close to

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Janice’s workplace. “Yeah. I might have to go one more time to tie up some loose ends, but otherwise I’m done.” “You’re making a huge change for someone who hasn’t said she’d marry you.” “If she says no, I’ll kidnap her and keep her until she agrees.” Drake smiled and winked. “This will be the first time you’ve brought a girl home in years. Mom and Dad will be surprised.” “I called them last night. Mom was almost speechless.” “I’m having a man of mine, an expert in mechanics, check your plane. It will be guarded until you take off tonight.” “Thanks, you joining us?” “I wouldn’t miss the fun. You going to find out what’s going on before we leave?” “I’m headed to her office now. She doesn’t know, but she’s taking off the rest of the day, and this week, and next.” Brent finished the last of his coffee. “I’d like to be a mouse in a corner of her office. She strikes me as being a take-charge lady. We’ll see who wins this skirmish.” Drake laughed and stood to leave. “Defeat is not an option.” What neither Brent nor Janice knew was that he’d met her boss, Scott, several years ago, and they always got together for golf when Drake was in town. Drake had called Scott last night. The woman hadn’t taken a vacation in over a year. Everything was arranged for her longneglected leave to start at one o’clock. He glanced at his watch as he waited for the elevator to whisk him to her floor. Twelve thirty, he’d be right on time. He relished seeing her face when he told her of his arrangements. His feisty redhead would certainly give him an argument. “Hello.” Drake greeted Janice’s secretary and kept on walking to her door. “Wait, I need to announce you,” the secretary said, and reached

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toward her phone. “No need, I’ve already got the door open.” Janice raised her head when she heard his voice. “Drake.” She ran around her desk and straight into his outstretched arms. The sweet, violet scent of her hair went straight to his head, and her soft body held tight against him sent all his blood to his hungry cock. “I may go away more often so I can get such a great welcome home.” Janice leaned back and studied his face. Her soft hands circled his jaw and she touched her mouth to his. He opened his lips and devoured her special taste. His hands cupped her tantalizing ass, holding her tight against his rigid cock. “I’ve missed you,” he growled in her ear. She moved her abdomen against his cock. He groaned. “Unless you want me to make use of your desk in an unconventional manner, you’ll stop tempting me.” She pulled back. “I’m so glad you’re here.” “I am, too. Get your bag. We’re going to lunch and then to your home, where you’ll pack clothes for both the colder air of Montana and the warmer climate in Saddle Creek. You are going on vacation, at one o’clock. According to my watch, you have five minutes before we’re out of here.” “But I only arranged for Friday and a few days next week of vacation time.” “Scott has agreed you can start today and not return until a week from Monday.” On which, if he had his way, she’d be giving her resignation. Since he’d realized he wanted to marry her, he had no patience to wait very long before making her his. Of course he’d have to take care of this matter of someone trying to kill them first. Janice stared at him in shock. “Scott? You know my boss?” “We met, before I met you.” “My cohorts are going to say I’m getting special treatment, and

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I’m not sure I like you taking charge this way. I always manage my own affairs, especially at work.” Her eyes sparked with fire. “You have the time coming. Forget them. So, I hurried things along. If I waited for you, we’d have had to argue it out first, wasting valuable hours.” He pulled her close again. “Worry about me, and how much I need you.” “You better not be joking.” His chocolate-brown eyes stared into her eyes. “I’m not joking.” He brushed his mouth across hers and he nipped at her lower lip. Desire sizzled inside him. “I can’t get you to myself soon enough.” She blushed. “My little prude. I love to make your cheeks blossom in pink. Come on, get your purse. Let’s leave this place behind us.” **** They both agreed to skip the restaurant meal and head to her house. Their clothes started coming off just inside the door. By the time they entered her bedroom, they were naked. Drake grabbed a condom from his jeans pocket and threw it on the bedside table. Janice waited beside the bed. He stopped to take a long, leisurely look at her. He started at her toes, painted pink, up her long, shapely legs, and then his eyes lingered at the apex between her thighs. His exploration continued over her flat tummy to her beautiful, full, breasts. Finally, he got to her flushed face. Her hazel eyes looked more green today. She licked her rosy lips, and opened her arms. He held back for a second longer. Hunger rushed through his body. His cock pulsed with the desire to sink inside her hot pussy. He took two steps, and he was a breath away from being right against her skin. Neither touched each other. They were connected only by the smoldering lust shimmering in their glazed eyes. He wasn’t sure he wouldn’t explode into a thousand pieces when she did caress him. Leaning down, he ran his tongue over her lips.

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She opened and he stroked along the soft, inner contours of her sweet mouth. His hands cupped her breast and his thumbs rubbed across the pebbled nipples. She sighed into his mouth. Still she held herself just that tiny bit away as he licked, tasted, touched her wonderful, smooth, velvety body. Janice took a tiny step back. Her sudden change in position had him looking at her, wondering what she wanted. She slid straight down in one smooth move, cupped his balls, and took his cock deep into her warm mouth. A jolt of sheer electricity shot from his cock to his head. “Janice!” She didn’t stop what she was doing. Her mouth licked his cock, sucked on him, and gently caressed his balls. Hot pleasure rolled in waves from his feet to head. She ran her tongue around the ridge of his cock and licked the drop of liquid from the tip. Her tongue slid along the underside, leaving a trail of fire behind her. He gently pulled her up and moved her back until her legs met the bed. She sat and scooted to the middle. His breath caught at the picture she made lying against her gold bedspread. Her fiery hair glistened, and her porcelain skin took on a golden hue. “You are magnificent.” Drake crawled onto the bed and spread her legs apart. He bent and nuzzled the hair between her legs. With his fingers, he gently separated the wet, pink folds of her pussy and ran his tongue across her clit. “Sweet-smelling, and sweet-tasting.” He tasted and nibbled along her lower lips. Heat swept along his nerve endings and his cock hardened even more. Her body bowed, and she moaned, sending desire slashing through him. His cock pulsed with impatience to be deep inside her. Still, he waited, watching her face flushed with heat, feeling the slight tremble in her body, and enjoying the lush mounds with rosy tips heaving with her gasps of pleasure. The picture of her in complete abandonment spiked his hunger to ravenous heights. Moving up her body, he settled where he could see, taste, and

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tantalize her breasts. He licked around her areola, took a nibble at the tip, and then suckled her breast. “Drake, go in me.” She moaned and moved restlessly under him. Her soft mound rubbed against his almost painful erection, arousing his desire to a frenzied level. When he reached down and rubbed his finger against her nub, she rose against him and yelled his name. His control broke. He struggled getting the damn condom to go on. Sensations of heat and hunger fueled his craving. He stared into her eyes as he pulled her legs wide apart. Finally he sank into her. Her tight, wet, hot pussy immediately clamped around him. Pleasure soared through him. She raised her body, seeking to be even closer. Her head thrashed from side to side. He quit thinking. All his awareness focused on the intensity of his enjoyment. Her sweet moans and movements inflamed his arousal into a roaring fire. He felt like a marauding conqueror. Her hot, slick pussy clenched his supersensitive cock repeatedly. The pressure built and built, his breath came in raspy gulps, and then she put her legs up and around his waist and had his body exploding in pleasure. They both yelled out as the wave of ecstasy hit. Drake rolled to her side. His heart pounded like it might jump out of his chest. He took deep breaths and tried to get his senses back. Janice lay beside him, also breathing hard. He’d felt her heartbeat against him as he came. He was lost—he knew it before, now there was no doubt. If she didn’t agree to marry him, he’d keep her in bed until she did. His lips curled in a smile. “What are you smiling about? That’s your I’m-up-to-no-good smile. I’m already getting to know you quite well,” Janice said as she leaned across and against his chest. He ran his hand along the silky strands of her hair. “You don’t need to know.” He kissed her before she could reply. “Woman, you will definitely kill me one of these days, but remember, I died happy.” She laughed and rolled back, facing the ceiling. “We’re really going to visit Samantha and Jackson and go to Montana?”

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Drake moved onto his side to face her. “Montana first. I want to introduce you to the rest of my family. After a short visit with them, we’ll go to Saddle Creek. Jackson and Samantha are expecting us. But first, we need to talk about what has been happening here since I left.” A stricken look went across Janice’s face. She moved to the side of the bed and sat, not facing him. Drake moved closer and rubbed her back. “Why don’t you shower? I’ll throw on my jeans and make us coffee. We’ll talk in the kitchen.” She nodded, grabbed fresh underwear from her drawer, and retreated to the bathroom. Drake dressed and went to the kitchen, looking for food and coffee. He found the coffee, put it on, and discovered cheese and butter in the fridge, and bread and tomato soup in the pantry. Grabbing a skillet and a pan from a lower cabinet, he began to cook. His momma had always said trouble was better handled on a full stomach. He smiled at the thought. He couldn’t wait to introduce the two most important women in his life to each other. **** Janice let the cool water roll along her hot body. Her legs still felt weak from the unexpected, overwhelming response of her body to his very pleasurable bombardment to her senses. She loved him, and hoped with all her heart he really loved her. When she’d lowered her defenses her realization that she loved him happened very quickly. She was still afraid to trust that he wouldn’t get bored after a time and go looking for someone else. Her heart was open, and bare. A delicate position to be in. “Are you ever coming out?” Drake called to her from the bedroom. “Just a minute, and I’ll join you in the kitchen.” She’d thrown on old jeans and a T-shirt and hurried to the kitchen.

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He’d made a meal and coffee. Seeing the soup and sandwich, her stomach growled. Drake laughed. “It’s a good thing I found some food for you, or you’d be attacking me.” Janice ignored him and bit into the grilled sandwich. She savored the flavor of the melted cheese. He’d made good, strong coffee, and the caffeine began to revive her. “Just what I needed, thank you.” She looked across to see him starting to eat. She raised an eyebrow. “Was I the taster to be sure it wasn’t poisoned?” “I like to watch you when you’re enjoying something.” They ate in companionable silence. Janice heard the truck, picking up the curbside trash, stop in front. Someone was mowing the grass a few doors down. Ordinary people with regular lives. Her life had been very regular until the midnight calls, and until she met Drake, a force to be reckoned with. She smiled at that thought. Drake got up and refilled their cups. “Time to talk.” Staring into her coffee cup, Janice told him of the midnight calls, the newspaper, the writing on her car. “The police haven’t any clues. I thought he’d get tired of calling and go away. He did for a short time, but it didn’t last. He’s escalating in the words he’s saying and writing.” “Neither my car, the shelf, nor the house were accidents. In two of those incidents you were with me. I thought I was the target.” He took her hand. “I believe you are, or perhaps both of us. Can you think of anyone who might be obsessed with you? Our getting together may have made his emotions boil over.” “Since my fiancé died, I buried myself in my work and seldom dated, and certainly no one in the past eighteen months but you. Still, there was a strange incident yesterday.” She proceeded to describe the scene at the bar. “He left ahead of me.” “What’s his name?” Drake glanced around the kitchen. Janice reached behind her and handed him a pen and pad. “His

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first name’s Clyde. The last name keeps eluding me.” She sat back trying to recall, but nothing came to mind. “I can call the office. My secretary can search the files. He left about six months after I started at the firm.” “Call her.” He sat back and waited. “I thought you’d be on your way out of town,” her secretary said when she answered the phone. “Almost. I have a question, though. I met a man the other night, and he used to work at the office. His first name is Clyde. I can’t remember his last name.” “Oh, I know who you mean. The poor thing had such a crush on you, and you were so engrossed in planning your wedding you didn’t even notice how many times he came by with poor excuses to see you. His name is Clyde Braun.” “Thank you. It annoyed me when I couldn’t remember.” Janice closed her cell phone before her secretary asked any questions. “Clyde Braun is his name. From what my secretary says, he had a crush on me and made frequent excuses to come around.” “I’ll call Brent right now. Go pack. We need to leave in the next hour or so.” Just telling Drake about all the scary incidents had lifted a weight off her shoulders. Clyde must be the one bothering her. Drake and Brent would check him out. She opened two suitcases and began to pack one with warm clothes and the other with lighter outfits. She added underwear, a bathing suit, and several pairs of shoes. She’d just snapped the last case shut when Drake joined her. “You were quick. Sam said you were organized, I believe her.” “Since meeting you, my life has had little order.” “Then I’m successful. My goal is to get you to relax and have fun. Like we did today, over there.” He smiled and nodded at the bed. “Which you’ve neatly made, giving me the impression I won’t get a repeat performance until we get to Montana.”

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“I’m not making love with you in your parents’ home.” “Why not?” “It isn’t done. They’d think I was terrible.” “No, they’d think you were overcome with love for their son.” “We will be good in Montana.” “Very good,” Drake said, and wriggled his eyebrows. “I won’t go unless you promise to behave.” “All right. I won’t do anything you don’t ask me to do.” But he had a devilish grin on his face when he spoke. She’d have to be on her toes every minute to stay ahead of him. Drake picked up her cases. “Let’s go.” Janice had begun to relax until they drove around to the hangar and she saw three guards surrounding the jet on the runway. “What’s going on?” “Brent had his mechanic check the plane, and has had it guarded since.” “Did the mechanic find a problem?” “Nope. We’ll be in the air in a few minutes, and home in Montana in a few hours. There’s Brent standing by the stairs. Go join him. I’ll bring up the rear with your suitcases. Mine are already on board.” A chill brushed across her shoulders. They thought the person, whoever he was, might have sabotaged the plane. She’d never considered that possibility. Drake stepped close to her. “Believe me, Brent has it all covered. We’ll be safe.” His words and his warm breath against her ear sent reassurance flowing through her veins. She walked beside Drake and toward the jet. He hid in the thick undergrowth surrounding the airport. Clouds hid the moon, and him. Blast Terrell and his brother. He tightened his fist and ground his teeth. He’d planned to end it all tonight. Now, they’d be out of reach for days. He’d put in for vacation himself. Thanks to his contact, he’d been able to discover their destinations. Tomorrow, he’d drive home and visit his mother, then later head to

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Saddle Creek. The next time he wouldn’t miss. He’d be ready for them when they came from Montana. He had a burning desire to see her hurt, as he had been since he’d first seen her. She had continued, over the years, to ignore him. He’d given her many opportunities to speak with him, to get to know him. She had taken none of them. Because of her rejection, he had lived with unbearable pain. He’d kill Terrell first, get him out of the way, and then make her suffer before her demise. The thought sent waves of desire and pleasure coursing through his body. At last, she’d be his, if only for a short time. He watched the jet disappear behind the clouds, and then waited until they all left and closed the airport. Finally, he crept along, checking for any signs of a guard left behind, before he went to his car and drove away.

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Chapter Seven “We’re here,” Drake said. He ran his hand along her arm. “Wake up, sleeping beauty.” Janice blinked her eyes. Drake stood beside her, and Brent was sprawled on the sofa. “He’s asleep. Go bother him.” “I plan to as soon as you fasten your seat belt.” She pushed her hair back and sat straight. “Do I have time to freshen up in the bathroom?” “Hurry, we’ll begin to descend in about thirty minutes.” He crossed the lounge area of the plane and shook Brent’s shoulder. Janice walked briskly along the short corridor into the bathroom off the bedroom. She splashed her face and took a comb out of the purse she’d brought with her. “Wish we had more time.” Drake spoke from behind her. He brushed her hair to the side and kissed her neck, and cupped her breasts in his hands. She closed her eyes and leaned into his muscled frame. His musky scent filled her lungs. Her breath caught when he moved one hand down flat on her abdomen. His other hand cupped her breast and his thumb rubbed across her peaked nipple. Heat and desire spread across her body and had her inner muscles aching with the need to have him inside her. Her ass rubbed against his aroused cock, when she moved her hips. Her legs went weak and she’d have fallen at his feet if he hadn’t held her so tightly. “You keep me in a perpetual state of hardness.” His teeth nipped at her earlobe. Janice took a deep breath. She pushed him back just enough to

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slide around and face him. She put her arms around his neck and leaned all her weight against him. Her breasts tingled from the close contact to his hard chest. She brushed kisses across his face. Drake unfastened her jeans and slid his fingers under her panties to her slick wet folds. One finger moved into her opening. “You’re hot and ready.” “Hmmm, yes.” She turned her attention to kissing his neck while her hands undid the button and zipper on his jeans. “Lady, you’re playing with fire.” “I like to live dangerously.” In one smooth move, Drake pushed her jeans and panties to the floor. “Spread your legs.” She did, and he lifted her, putting her legs around his middle. She reached inside his open jeans and closed her hand around his wide cock, placing him right at her opening. Gradually, he entered her, stretching the walls of her pussy to accommodate him. She wriggled, moving him even deeper. “That feels so good,” she moaned into his mouth. “You bet, baby doll, but this will be even better.” Drake carried her across and leaned her back against the cool tile wall. She tightened her legs around his waist and her inner muscles tightened and loosened, setting a rhythm. Drake held still and his facial muscles tightened. “Am I hurting you?” she managed to gasp out as shivers began at her core and sent tremors all over her body. “Best hurt a man can have.” He began to move, slow at first, then picking up the tempo. Waves of pleasure flowed from inside her, filling every nerve in her body. “Yes, yes, yes,” she screamed in his ear as he pushed harder one last time, and held still, letting his release fill her. He leaned his head against the wall. His heavy breathing had him gasping. Carefully, he let her legs slid to the floor. His forehead touched hers. “Are you freshened up enough?” A

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faint smile curved his sensuous lips. “I believe I am, on the inside,” she said and kissed his tempting mouth. “But I’m going to take a quick shower before we land. Get out of here, or I’ll never get done.” **** Janice had stepped into the shower as Drake closed the bathroom door behind him. He walked across the bedroom and looked out a side window at the dark sky. Damn, he’d forgotten the condom. He wanted to ask if she was on the pill, but hesitated. She might think he wasn’t serious about marriage and children if he brought up the subject. He did want a family, but he wanted time with his wife first. And he didn’t want her to feel he married her out of necessity. Damn his forgetfulness. Whatever came about, they’d handle it together. He went back to the bathroom to see if she was ready to return to her seat. The time to land was getting close. She looked delectable standing at the mirror, combing her hair. He noted her slight frown. She had to be anxious about meeting his family. “Come with me,” he said. He closed her purse and pulled her into the bedroom. He sat in a chair by the bed. Taking her arm, he pulled her onto his lap. “Mom and Dad are going to love you. Mom especially. She’s ready for her boys to get serious and settle down. You don’t have to be nervous.” “Who said I was nervous? And who said you were going to settle down?” She frowned at him. “I saw the way you were worrying about your appearance. As to the other, you’ve explained what a woman needs to believe in a man’s sincerity. I’m considering all the information you gave me.” She leaned forward and peered into his eyes. “I’m never certain

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when you’re serious, and when you’re giving me a line.” Her hazel eyes were greener tonight, with specks of gold. He hugged her softness, enjoying the feel of her. “You’re beginning to know me. I can’t understand why you’d have any questions about what I say.” He frowned at her, pretending to be offended. She giggled into his neck. He loved when she let down her defenses. He saw in a quick moment how she must have been as a young girl. He kissed her neck where he knew she was ticklish. She lifted her shoulders to get away from him and giggled again. “I hate to end this, sweetheart, but we have to get back to the main cabin.” He lifted her off him. “Another minute, and I’d have had to take a cold shower.” With his hand at her back, he followed her down the hall and back to her seat. He waited at her side to see her belt was fastened. Brent quirked an eyebrow at Drake, when he sat in the chair next to him. “I thought I might have to tell the pilot to circle,” Brent whispered, a gleam of mischief in his eyes. “Hush up, little brother, and fasten your belt,” Drake said, and laughed at Brent’s frown. Janice had opened her purse and hopefully missed Brent’s teasing remark. For a modern, independent woman, she still had a slightly puritanical way of thinking. Drake grinned, but he was making inroads in changing her ideas. The plane dipped to the east and began to descend. He hadn’t been home in almost a year. He couldn’t wait to see his folks and Ty, the youngest brother. Also, he had to call Jackson and see if the papers for the sale were going to be faxed to him. His surprise for Janice was almost complete. **** A tall, broad-shouldered man with salt-and-pepper, short hair, waited beside a large silver truck. Janice saw the resemblance to

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Drake and Brent right away. “Glad to see you boys home,” their father said. Both sons stepped forward and hugged him. “Who’s this pretty lady?” He smiled at Janice. “Dad, this is Janice Dedrick. Janice, my dad, Joseph Terrell.” She put out her hand. “It’s nice to meet you, sir.” Joseph Terrell gave her hand a yank and pulled her into his arms for a hug. “We don’t stand on formality around here, and if my boy has brought you home, then you’re important to him. Just call me Joe.” Mr. Terrell smelled of horses and cigars. He kept one arm around her shoulder. “My missus is going to be tickled pink to see you,” he assured Janice. “Get those suitcases loaded up. Momma’s waiting with coffee and sandwiches.” Drake and Brent put the luggage in the back. Drake helped Janice into the back seat of the truck. His father drove with Brent in the seat beside him. “I hope Mom made one of her famous lemon meringue pies,” Drake said. His father threw him a glance over his shoulder. “Do you think she’d miss baking one with you on the way home?” All three men laughed. Janice felt off-kilter. Drake’s family was so demonstrative and big, and overwhelming. Her mother and father were reserved at all times. Sometimes she’d longed for them to be spontaneous in some way. It never happened. Vacations were planned down to the last minute. Lives were orderly and moved in an expected direction. She’d been coached through life to excel in all areas. When she came home, her mother greeted her and brushed a cool kiss on her cheek. Her father smiled and told her he was glad to see her. She knew they loved her, but too much emotion had been frowned upon. “Are you all right?” Drake bent his head to see her face. “You’re very quiet.”

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“I’m absorbing all my initial impressions. Your father is sweet,” she whispered into Drake’s ear. Drake chuckled. “Don’t let him hear you describe him that way.” He draped his arm around her and pulled her close to his side. “Everything’s going to be fine. Relax and enjoy your visit.” “I will, I am.” But she knew she’d stiffened in his father’s arms when he’d hugged her, and Mr. Terrell noticed. He’d raised an eyebrow questioningly, smiled, and let her go, except for the one arm over her shoulder. She hoped he didn’t feel she’d responded coldly. Drake’s finger ran across the frown line between her eyes. “Don’t worry,” he repeated. He tipped her chin and brushed a soft kiss on her mouth. “Taste good, feel good, can’t beat it.” “You two behave back there.” Mr. Terrell spoke in a light tone. Janice looked into the rearview mirror and saw his warm smile. When she glanced at Drake, the same smile reflected back at her. “Two peas in a pod,” she mumbled, but Drake heard her and laughed out loud. Lights blazed from the farm house. Janice saw a woman standing at the front door waiting. Her muscles tensed. More introductions to get through. She was so tired. She wanted to fall into bed and sleep all night and part of the day. Pulling away from Drake left her feeling cold and alone. Hopefully, her hair and clothes weren’t too messy. Drake took her hand. “You’re beautiful.” “Right, in the middle of the night with rumpled clothes and my hair mussed.” He squeezed her hand as the truck stopped in front of a wide, open porch. Mr. Terrell turned. “Welcome to our home, Janice.” “Thank you.” Brent and Drake got out and Drake reached for Janice. He scooped her up and carried her toward the porch. “Put me down.” She pushed at his chest. “Your mother will think I’m a weakling.”

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He set her on her feet. “There. Come meet her.” Taking her hand, he led her toward the door and the small woman, who was welcoming Brent with a hug. His mother turned to Drake and frowned. “It’s about time you came home. Ten months is too long not to see your family.” “I agree, Mom. But I brought home a surprise for you. Meet Janice Dedrick. Janice, my mom.” Mrs. Terrell gave her a once-over before a big smile covered her face. “Welcome.” She opened her arms and Janice accepted another hug. Mrs. Terrell was shorter than her, about five and a half feet tall, and her sons and husband towered over her. She had golden brown hair sprinkled with gray and startling bright blue eyes. “Let’s all go to the kitchen. Food’s ready to be eaten.” She opened the door and motioned them inside. Janice had an impression of large rooms, cream-colored walls, and shiny wood floors. They first entered a living room with a huge fireplace, then passed a dining room and went into the big eat-in kitchen. A table with six chairs sat beside one wall. Along two other walls were all the modern conveniences a woman could want. “Sit and start eating. Ty will be along in a minute.” Two plates loaded with sandwiches sat in the middle of the table. Mrs. Terrell brought over a bowl full of hot vegetable soup—the tantalizing scent hung in the air. She poured coffee for the men. “Tea or coffee?” she asked Janice. “Tea would be nice, if it’s not too much trouble.” “No trouble.” Drake walked across the kitchen to one of the counters. “Hmm, a chocolate cake, and a lemon meringue pie.” He smiled at his mom and picked her up, whirling her around. “Put me down, right this minute.” Although her voice was firm, she had a smile on her face. Drake did as she said, and then bent to kiss her. Something caught in Janice’s heart at the sign of such open love between Drake and his

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mother. “Don’t hog her, Drake.” Brent moved behind his mother and hugged her. “The chocolate cake is for me.” The sound of the back screen shutting had all their attention turned to the tall man standing in the doorway. He was slimmer than Drake or Brent, but not thin. Golden strands shone through his lighter brown hair. Dark blue eyes surveyed the group. Worn jeans covered his lean hips and long legs and a blue plaid shirt and wool vest kept his broad chest warm. His eyes surveyed the room, stopping at Janice. A slow smile curved his mouth. Another good-looking man, but he appeared more serious, less inclined to laugh or hug, she thought. He strolled across to the table. “I’m Ty Terrell, and you are?” “Janice Dedrick, a friend of Drake’s.” “Ah, the one in danger.” “Yes.” He nodded and walked to the coffeepot to pour a cup of coffee. Drake and Brent joined him. Janice watched the interaction. Still much affection, but on a subdued level. Interesting, one brother so different than the other two. Their father came in after Ty and joined his wife and Janice at the table. Seeing their father, Drake, Brent, and Ty quickly came to the table, and everyone began to eat the delicious soup and sandwiches. Janice was almost too tired for food, but did enjoy the warm soup. She was relieved when they’d all eaten and Mrs. Terrell offered to show her upstairs to her room. Drake walked to the kitchen door with her, kissed her, and watched her start up the steps. Mrs. Terrell showed her to a room off to the left at the top. She turned on the light. A white wrought iron bed was placed against the far wall. The bedspread was white with a gathered skirt hanging to the floor. White curtains with tiny pink roses hung on either side of the two windows and the white bedside tables had pink lamps. An open

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door, to the right, showed a small bath done in pink and white. “This was to be my girl’s room, but after having three boys, we decided to give up, wait, and hope for granddaughters. Candice, Ty’s wife, stayed here a few times before their marriage.” She ran her hand across the bedspread. “Seems such a long time ago.” Janice heard the sadness in Mrs. Terrell’s voice. “I didn’t realize any of your sons had married. Drake never mentioned a sister-inlaw.” “She’s gone.” “They divorced?” “Oh, no.” His mother smiled faintly. “The men in the Terrell family marry for life. She died in childbirth, lost the baby, too. Ty hasn’t been the same since.” “I’m so sorry. I don’t know why Drake didn’t tell me so I wouldn’t say the wrong thing.” “Honey, don’t you worry. You’ll be fine with us. I see the sweet love in your eyes when you look at my Drake. That makes you all right in my book. But the reason he probably didn’t mention the death is because we lost her four years ago. We all remember her and the baby, but we’ve gotten over the worst of the grief. Ty hasn’t. Well I’m sure you’re tired. I’m going back downstairs. If you need anything at all, just holler.” She gave Janice a hug and hurried out the door. Janice heard her footsteps going down the stairs. A quick bath and she planned to crash. The bright white and rose colors in the bathroom glared into her tired eyes. She turned on the warm water and let it pour along her body. After what seemed only a few minutes, a masculine hand reached in and turned off the water. “Honey, you’re about to go to sleep on your feet.” Drake wrapped a big, soft towel around her, dried her briskly, and carried her to bed. He sat her on her feet for a second while he pulled back the bedspread and top sheet, and then he lifted her onto the violet-smelling linens.

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Her head sank into the luxurious pillows. Drake ran the soft towel along her body, massaging her tired muscles as he went down her arms, back, and legs. Warmth followed in his wake. Her eyelids were so heavy. **** Drake smiled when he heard her gentle snore. He’d hoped his massage would help her go right to sleep. She’d been exhausted, mostly from all the strange incidents happening to her. Possibly he was partly to blame for his energetic lovemaking. He smiled at the thought. She was such a contrast. His demonstrative family had been a little overwhelming for her. Not surprising, knowing her father. Judge Dedrick had been at one of the few law conferences which Drake attended. The man had perfect posture, perfect attire, a commanding voice, and seldom smiled. He intimidated most of the men around him. When he looked at Drake, Drake had given him a casual nod and smile. The man’s eyes were cold, and Drake glimpsed anger at his casual response to the important man. To further infuriate him, Drake had shrugged, turned, and strolled off. He didn’t expect her father to be overjoyed to have him as a sonin-law. Drake glanced back at Janice and wondered what type of home she grew up in. Shaking his head, he walked to the door and headed back to the kitchen. “She asleep?” his mother asked. “About to drown herself in the shower when I rescued her. I got her into bed, and she went fast asleep.” Drake glanced around the familiar room. “Everyone else gone to bed?” “Brent had a call to make, and then he’ll be going to his room. Your dad and Ty went to the barn to check a mare about to give birth.” “How’s Ty doing, Mom?” “The same.”

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“You think me bringing Janice here will make it worse for him?” “No. He wanted to meet her, the same as we all did. She’s the one?” “Yep.” “I heard a rumor you’re buying a ranch.” “It’s a surprise for Janice.” “I suspect she’s not a cowgirl.” His mother cut him a big piece of pie, and herself a smaller piece. Drake got two cups of coffee and they went to the table. “She gave me an ultimatum shortly after I met her.” “Really? I like her even more.” He laughed. “I thought you would. She’s a lot like you. Anyway, she told me she was looking for a relationship, not a fling.” His mother choked on her coffee. “You all right?” Drake asked and started to go to her side. “Fine, at least I will be.” She cleared her throat. “Maybe I’d better start at the first, at the auction. Don’t drink any more coffee until I finish.” He told her about the ten thousand dollars, the ultimatum, and his realization she might be the one for him. Then he explained about what she’d said concerning a ranch. “I’m going to present her with the ranch, and me, and hope she’ll take us both.” “She’s an expensive choice.” “Not her fault. I chose to spend the money. But”—he gave a half laugh—“when you look at it that way, her bride price has been pretty high. Maybe I should check her teeth, like you do a horse to be sure I’m getting a healthy one for the money.” His mother swatted him on the way to the coffeepot. “I hope she understands your sense of humor. I expect she’ll be lost on the ranch, at first.” “I’m teaching her about my humor, and I’ll teach her about the land and the ranch. Like you said Dad did for you.” She smiled, remembering. “He had his hands full. Not only did I

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know nothing about being a rancher’s wife, but I also had a bad case of homesickness.” “What kept you staying here and not running back to your family?” “My love for your dad. And the love grew for the land, too. Of course, you came along, and there was no looking back.” “Have you ever regretted your decision?” “To marry your dad?” He nodded. “Not for a minute. I’m going to skip this last cup of coffee and go to bed.” His mother patted him on the shoulder. “It’s good to have all my boys here at the same time.” “Night, Mom.” Drake swallowed the last bite of pie and took his coffee cup and plate to the sink. He walked outside onto the back porch. The smell of the land, cattle, and a light scent of early wildflowers tickled his nose. He always enjoyed coming home. This is what he wanted for his wife and children. He had a strong desire to go back to working the land and raising cattle. A love of nature had been ingrained in him and both his brothers. But was Janice serious about him buying a ranch? Would she accept him and his plans? And who in the hell was trying to kill them?

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Chapter Eight Drake woke her early. “Get up. I have lots to show you.” She looked at the clock on the bedside table. “Seven! This is my vacation.” “And it’s time to start vacationing. We’re going riding.” “As in horses?” “Yes.” “I don’t ride, well, I don’t if I can avoid it.” “Why? Did you fall off one time?” “I don’t like the feeling of being vulnerable. All the horse has to do is throw me. I’m a long way from the ground.” “You can’t be a cowgirl without riding. We have the perfect mare for you. We all learned to ride on her, and she’s much older now, just plods along.” “Why do I want to be a cowgirl?” “Because when Prince Charming comes along and marries you, and takes you to his ranch, you have to be able to ride.” “What ranch? You’re confusing me.” “Trust me. Get dressed to ride. I’ll be in the kitchen fixing your breakfast.” Janice grumbled to herself, but got out of bed. She dressed in jeans, a long-sleeved yellow shirt and took her jacket downstairs with her. Drake took one look at her feet and shook his head. “I don’t suppose you have any boots? We’ll drive into town and get you a pair later. For now, those shoes you have on will do.” “I’m hardly going to need boots for a two-day visit. You said we

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were going on to Texas. I never ride there.” “You will this time. Sit. Eat.” “Yes, master.” Her mocking voice had him smiling. “Where is everyone?” “Mom’s in the garden and Dad, Brent, and Ty are out doing work.” “Gracious, what time do you all wake up?” “Early, five or so. The animals won’t wait for us to laze around in bed.” “No one should have to go to work at five.” He put the plate of eggs, potatoes, bacon, sausage, and toast in front of her. “Were you expecting a lumberjack to help me eat this?” “Eat it all. We’ll be busy.” “This is not a vacation,” she mumbled. “I heard that. Eat, hurry.” He strode out, leaving her alone. “Eat, hurry, we have work,” she mimicked his words. “I felt exactly the same the first day after his dad and I had arrived on the ranch. I wanted to hit him.” Mrs. Terrell stood in the outside doorway. She crossed the kitchen and put her bowl of fresh green beans in the sink, and then poured herself some coffee. “After thirtyfive years, my body won’t sleep past five.” “That’s a horrible thought.” “Not really. The early morning is beautiful. I love the sunrises. The sweet smell of the grass and trees, dew sparkling off the leaves. My son said you suggested he buy a ranch and settle down.” “I was teasing him. He wanted to know how to convince a woman he was serious. Knowing he loved his job and had no intention to settle, I gave him the most absurd suggestions.” “How interesting. Do you ride?” “Only if forced. I believe Drake intends to force me.” “This promises to be a most interesting few days.” “Hi, Mom.” Drake returned, a broad smile on his face. “Are my two favorite girls getting acquainted?”

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“Better than you’d think,” his mother said. “Good, but we have to head for the barn. Daisy is waiting to be ridden.” “That old nag. She can barely walk.” “Right, Mom. The perfect horse for Janie.” “Janie?” his mother and Janice both said at once. “I can’t go through life calling you Janice. It’s much too formal a name.” Janice stared at him. Before she opened her mouth to respond, he took her hand and led her outside. “See how beautiful it all is in the morning.” He waved his hand around. Wide pastures stretched out as far as she could see, and in the distance were snow-covered mountains. In one area, men on horseback were herding the cattle. Drake led her to one of two barns. Inside were a number of horse stalls. He asked one of the men throwing hay in the stalls to get Daisy. “You’ll feel safe on her back.” She didn’t comment. Nothing was going to change his mind at this point. She’d ride, hating it all the way. Here at home, he looked different and she sensed a change in attitude. His old jeans were faded and clung to his muscled thighs. He wore a brown shirt and wool vest similar to the one Ty had worn last night. A cowboy hat sat on the back of his head. Gone was the polished businessman. His heavy-lidded eyes darkened. He sauntered to her side. “You’re staring.” “Yes, I am.” Her body reacted to the lusty look he gave her. Heat tingled along her nerves and her body craved his touch. He bent close to her mouth. “Seducing me won’t make me relent. You have to learn to ride, and enjoy riding.” “Good luck in succeeding,” she said. Drake stepped away just as the cowboy returned with her horse. “She looks as tired as I feel,” Janice said. “Let me show you how to saddle her. If you’re going to be a

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horsewoman, you first have to learn how to take care of your ride.” “Cowgirl, horsewoman, you’ve lost your mind.” But she listened and followed his instructions. Finally, they were ready to go. She put one foot in the stirrup and threw the other leg over to settle in the saddle. “Good girl.” Janice frowned at him. Her horse might be old and tired, but she still had Janice high off the ground. “Relax. I see your muscles going tense.” Drake got on his large, brown stallion and led the way from the barn onto a wide trail. He glanced back to check on her. “You doing all right?” He watched her ride to his side. “You have a good seat. All you need is confidence and practice.” “There are no horses in Houston, or near my house.” He gave her what she called his pacifying smile. He started forward, instructing her to follow. Daisy ambled slowly behind. Drake kept a tight rein on his stallion, holding him back. “Give your horse a good run. He’s biting at the bit. Daisy and I will mosey along.” “You’re sure?” “Yes, go.” She enjoyed watching him and his horse fly across the meadow. He leaned low across the stallion’s neck. Her heartbeat increased and an unfamiliar softness filled her chest. She had it bad. She’d fallen hopelessly in love with him. A man totally different in his ideas, and in his world. She nudged Daisy to move her along a little faster. She ought to be insulted with this poor horse he’d given her. Even her grandmother wouldn’t fall off Daisy. Daisy moved at a crawl and had a wide girth. Tomorrow, she’d show him she could ride a horse with a little more life left in her. ****

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Sailing through the air the next morning, her thought from yesterday mocked her. Thump. Her body hit the ground, thankfully cushioned by thick grass and wildflowers. She lay trying to get her breath. Drake’s horse’s hooves pounded on the ground and echoed in her ear, as he rode to her. He flew off and knelt beside her. “Don’t move. Do you hurt anywhere?” “I’m just learning to breathe again,” she gasped. His hands moved over her legs and arms. His fingers felt all over her head. “Does your back hurt, or your belly?” The worry had his face drawn, and his eyes filled with remorse. “You don’t have to ride. I’ll buy you a truck. You never have to ride a horse again.” She’d have laughed, but he was so worried. Pushing his hands aside, she sat up. “I’m better. I can breathe. Nothing feels broken, although I’ll be sore tomorrow, I’m sure.” He put his arm around her and helped her stand. “We’ll go back to the house.” “No, we won’t. You had a special place to show me.” “It can wait for another time. I want the doctor to check you.” “This isn’t necessary,” she protested when he lifted her onto his horse, and then swung up behind her. He rode across to her mare, grabbed the reins, and headed to the house. Snapping the cell phone open, he dialed a number. “Mom, ask Doc Turner to stop by on his way home. Janie fell off her horse. Yeah, she says so. Okay. Bye.” “You are overreacting, Drake, and stop calling me Janie. My name is Janice.” “I’m less worried now, seeing you can fuss at me.” “I want to ride my horse back. If I don’t get on her right away, I might not talk myself into riding ever again.” Drake stopped and helped her down. He handed her the mare’s reins and stayed close until she was on and settled. “You’re right. We all three overreact when any woman around us looks like she might

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be hurt.” Janice put her palm against his cheek. “I’m not used to having someone show such concern.” “Your parents didn’t?” “Stiff upper lip and all that.” She spoke in a light tone. Drake took a shortcut to the house. His mother waited in the yard, her hands clasped. They stopped, and Drake helped Janice dismount. “I’ll be back after I take care of the horses.” “Come in, dear. What you need is a good hot bath and a cup of tea. There’s a whirlpool tub in my bathroom. I’ll show you.” She led Janice around behind the stairwell to a hidden doorway. “This is Joe’s and my room.” She indicated for Janice to enter. “The bath is on the right.” Janice walked around the large bed and into a bright, blue bathroom. Mrs. Terrell turned on the water. “Here’s a towel and one of my robes you can wear to go upstairs to your room. I’ll bring the cup of tea there.” “Thank you. I don’t understand why Drake got so very upset. Actually, other than losing my breath for a moment, I didn’t hit hard, thanks to the thick grass.” Mrs. Terrell sat on a chair by the tub. “Obviously we’ve not completely recovered from our loss. Candice seemed so healthy. We were sure she’d be fine. She told Ty not to worry the day she went to the hospital. It promised to be a long delivery. She said for him to go home and rest. “When they called him, he didn’t get there in time. He’s never forgiven himself, and none of us can forget. Drake cares for you. Seeing you hurt must have brought back those other memories. Enjoy your bath. I’ll see you upstairs. By the way, I didn’t call the doctor.” She winked. Janice undressed and sank into the hot water. She leaned against the back of the tub. The heat soaked into sore muscles. Mrs. Terrell had thrown in some bath beads, and the fragrance of jasmine rose

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around her. She’d said Drake cared for her. He certainly portrayed a man who was deeply involved. All this talk of ranches, riding, and living on the land had begun to worry her. Her comment to him about buying a ranch hadn’t been serious. She tried to visualize herself living like Samantha and Jackson. She’d be leaving her career behind, moving from an exciting city to a place miles from town, and a small town at that. This ranch was forty miles from the nearest town. And did Drake want to live in Montana? Her questions gave her a headache. What would she say if he’d taken her suggestions seriously? Did she love him enough to upset her whole life for what he wanted? She pulled the plug on the water that had grown cool and dried with a fluffy towel. His mother’s robe was the right color for her, a deep emerald green, but short. She hurried upstairs before she met any of the men. Holding the robe close around her, she stood at her window and stared across the prairie. A different world from hers. **** They prepared to leave after breakfast. Janice got hugs from Drake’s parents and Brent. She had to admit she was beginning to enjoy the warm, open affection they showed to each other and her. Ty came strolling into the farmhouse at the last minute carrying a box. More reticent than the other members of his family, Janice did not expect him to walk across the room, put the box on the table, and lean down to give her a gentle hug. “You have to come back and keep working on riding a horse.” His mouth quirked up at the corner in a half smile. “Drake said you’re headed for Texas, and I suspect you’ll be needing a pair of boots with all these ranches he’s taking you to on your vacation.” Ty reached for the box and put it in Janice’s hands.

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“I checked with Mom and discovered you and Cindy wore the same size shoe. I’m sure she’d want you to have these,” he said and pointed to the package. Janice lifted the cover and inside lay a lovely pair of woman’s boots. “They’re beautiful. Are you sure you want me to have them?” She saw him blink to keep the tears back. He’d reached out and covered her hands with his and now they tightened. Ty cleared his throat. “I’d be pleased to know you were wearing them.” He spun around and retraced his steps, going out the back door without another word or glance. Mr. and Mrs. Terrell held hands. Tears were evident in their eyes. “He’s never been willing to remove any of her things from his house. He’s packed them up, but they’ve stayed in the storage room,” Mrs. Terrell said. “He obviously took a sincere liking for you, Janice. Thank goodness, he’s taken this first step, finally.” Drake put his arm around Janice’s shoulder. “We need to leave for the airstrip. Our pilot will have the jet ready to go.” Brent drove them in his father’s truck. “I’m going back to Houston to follow up on some questions that still bug me. I’ll call if I find any important information.” “Thanks, I appreciate the help,” Drake said. The truck slowed to turn into the parking area by the airstrip. When he stopped, Drake helped Janice out. “Be careful, you two,” Brent said. “Are you sure you don’t want protection in Saddle Creek?” “Jackson and I will be on watch. I’d expect whoever it is will have something grand planned for our return to Houston.” “Not if I can prevent it. Have a good trip.” Brent waved as they hurried toward the jet’s stairs. Once they were inside and with the door shut, the plane began to taxi to the end of the runway. Drake checked Janice’s belt and then sat in the chair closest to her.

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“We’ll be at Jackson’s in time for dinner.” “I’m looking forward to seeing Sam. You don’t think we might be bringing danger to them, do you?” Janice frowned at him. “Nope. Except for the first night, we’re staying somewhere else, not with them, just in case this crazy person does come to Saddle Creek. Which I doubt he will. How would he know we were going there or where we’d be staying? But if he did find out someway and follows us, he’ll be looking for you and me, not them.” “Which is some consolation, I suppose,” Janice said. “Right now let’s think of more pleasant things. Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve made love to you?” “A few days?” Janice quirked her eye at him. “An eternity of hours.” He removed his seat belt and unfastened hers. “We have hours of flight ahead. I know a great way to spend the time.” Drake picked her up and headed toward the bedroom. “Maybe I have other ideas,” she said. He threw her on the soft, wide bed. “I’ll change your mind.” He began to undress. His eyes never left hers as each piece of clothing hit the floor. First, his wide, tanned shoulders were revealed and his six-pack. Next, he sat and pulled off his boots, and then snapped open his jeans, unzipping and pushing the pants to the floor. He wore no underwear. Tall, nude, and gorgeous, he leaned over her. Janice’s heartbeat moved into overdrive. His smoldering inspection covered her body and sent heat flashing through her. A hunger grew at the junction between her thighs and fluid seeped from her pussy. When his hand traced along her arm and up to her neck. Her heartbeat fluttered like a bird trying to escape its cage. He put his knee on the bed and crawled toward her, laughter and lust reflected in his eyes. “You have too many clothes on,” his low, husky voice purred, sending a ripple of desire skittering across her skin. He straddled her and began to undo the buttons of her blouse. Everywhere his fingers

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touched sent a zing of electricity straight to her pussy. Her fingers wrapped around his aroused cock. He was warm, his skin velvety, and yet hard underneath. With her other hand, she cupped his sac. He tried to appear unaffected, but she smiled to see the quick bite to his lip, and a slight tremor in his hands as he undressed her. Raising her, he removed her blouse and bra. His hands covered her breasts. “Beautiful, softer than any substance, and”—he leaned close, took a deep breath, and licked across her tight nipples—“smells like jasmine and tastes like the sweetest strawberry.” Her hand began to move up and down his cock. He closed his eyes and groaned. For the next few minutes, he lightly caressed her breasts as she touched him, slid her fingers along the edge of the head of his cock, and carefully stroked his balls. His drawn, flushed face was evidence to her that the hot pleasure his touch built in her, her hands and fingers did the same to him. Her breasts responded to his light touch and sent an aching desire straight down to the deepest part of her vagina. Her sensitive nipples tightened and stood out begging for his attention. His quick nip sent shivers up her spine. Time moved slowly. At one point, he stopped her. “You still have on too many clothes.” He undid her jeans and moved away from her to pull her pants off and throw them to the floor. Her panties followed. He spread her legs and stroked from her ankles to the top of her thighs. Separating her wet folds, his tongue licked across her clit. Her body bowed in pleasurable anguish. A hot ache to have him inside her grew. Drake positioned himself with his head between her legs and tasted her. His tongue moved along her folds and slipped into her opening. Waves of desire flooded across her body. She moaned, “Please take me hard.” Her body moved closer against his mouth, aching for relief. In response, he sucked on her nub and his fingers rubbed her breasts and pinched her nipples, sending fire snapping along every nerve.

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She pulled at his shoulders, trying to move him up and in her. He ignored her plea and licked her juice, suckled on her most sensitive spot, and had her thrashing her head as the pressure built to an explosive height. Just when she began to tumble over the edge he plunged into her oversensitized pussy. Her scream of ecstasy echoed off the walls. Drake continued to pound into her, pulling her buttocks up and going deeper. Another wave hit her as he went deep one last time, and groaned out his own relief. Her inner muscles continued to pulse around him as she clamped hard on his cock. Gradually, her inner and outer tremors slowed and faded. Drake had rolled to her side, his heavy breathing in her ear. “I don’t think you enjoyed that episode,” she said. “I must try harder next time, and not be the only recipient of such delight.” She smiled at him and brushed his hair off his forehead. “Definitely, if I can ever move again,” he managed to gasp out between deep breaths. “I will expect you to work much harder on trying to please me.” His eyes raked along her body, stopping for a second at her full breasts, and then at her pussy. He pulled her close and nuzzled his head between her breasts. “Sleep. The pilot will alert us in time to shower and dress.” Janice ran her hand through his thick, dark brown hair. His breathing quieted. His long, lean body relaxed against her. She held him close and wondered what in the world she was going to do. Her love for him grew each day, especially seeing him with his family. She barely remembered her original impressions of him. He was not what her family would want for her. Her mother and father had loved her fiancé, Ted. He had been cultured, reserved, much like her father when she thought about him now. Their affection had been much less explosive, more a gradual respect and admiration, increasing until he asked her to marry him. She’d thought her life would be unruffled, calm, predictable. Nothing like her time with Drake.

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She hated to admit the truth, but Ted had been more a close, affectionate male friend. Their few sexual encounters had been quick, sweet, and respectable. Not the hard, fast, uncontrollable fire that raced in her with Drake’s slightest touch of his hand or mouth. Her mother would turn up her nose and declare her daughter had lost her mind to carry on in such loose moral behaviors. She’d emphasized women must demand men treat them with utmost respect in all places, including the bedroom. Whores, loose women behaved in the awful actions mentioned on television. She could not believe the gross information put out today in the media and expected her daughter, Janice, to remember who she was and whom she’d hurt if she was to involve herself in the tiniest bit of such goings-on. Janice had been embarrassed by her mother’s lecture, and relieved that she never repeated it. Apparently, she assumed her daughter would be completely obedient in all areas, at all times. And Janice had been, until Drake, the handsome man asleep lying against her body, had stormed her defenses, knocking every one of them down. She gazed along his long, lean body and thought of how mysterious and dangerous his eyes could look at times. He was her own personal conquering hero. She smiled at the thought. And for the moment, Drake had made her forget both her parents’ instructions, and the man intent on killing them.

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Chapter Nine Samantha and Jackson were at the airport when they landed. “I’m so glad you’ll be with us tonight,” Samantha said. “We’ll stay up late and talk.” Jackson smiled at his wife. “Thanks for warning us, honey. Drake and I will go to my study and drink my good bourbon.” “Sounds like a plan to me,” Drake agreed. They all got into Jackson’s car and were soon at the house. “I can’t wait to see your new baby girl, Jessica,” Janice said. “I can’t believe she’s already three months old. I told Jackson since we have a girl and boy our family was complete, but he thinks four is a much nicer number than two.” Samantha smiled and glanced back at her husband. “You’re really very happy, aren’t you?” Janice asked. “I can’t explain how much.” Samantha led the way inside. The men followed, carrying the suitcases. A blond-haired, blue-eyed child toddled into the room with a young woman close behind. Samantha scooped her son into her arms. “I believe you’ve met Colin’s nanny,” she said to Janice. Janice nodded and greeted the woman. Samantha carried Colin and led Janice into a pink bedroom to see Jessica. She lay on her back, kicking her feet in the air. She had her father’s golden brown hair and the same intense blue eyes. “She’s going to be a heartbreaker, Sam.” “That’s why I’m practicing my aim with my gun,” Jackson teased as he and Drake entered the baby’s room.

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Jessica gave a loud cry. “You pick her up, Jackson.” Samantha looked across at Drake and Janice. “She knows his voice and cries to be held every time he speaks. Definitely a daddy’s girl.” “Can I hold her?” Drake moved to the side of the crib. “Do you know how?” Samantha asked. “Of course. Well, I haven’t held many babies. But it can’t be hard.” Samantha laughed and, reaching in, picked her daughter up and put her in Drake’s arms. “Just be sure and support her head.” Apparently surprised to see another man holding her instead of daddy, Jessica stopped crying and stared at Drake. She blinked her bright, blue eyes, put her thumb into her mouth, and went to sleep. Jackson touched his shoulder and said quietly, “You’re a natural, old man.” Janice stared at the awe on Drake’s face. He raised his head and their eyes met. Something shifted in Janice’s heart, and she knew her life had changed forever. **** The men had said good night and retreated to Jackson’s study. They left Samantha and Janice to visit. Samantha popped corn, turned on an old movie for background noise, and joined Janice on the long, soft sofa. “Tell me everything,” Samantha said. “About what?” Janice said, playing coy. “Spill the beans. I saw your face in the nursery. You’re in love with him.” “I am. He charged my fortress and knocked all my defenses down.” “Are you glad?” “I think so. We’ll see how it all works out.” “Do you want marriage and children? I’d say from his expression

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today while holding Jessica that he’s ready.” She laughed. “I wouldn’t have thought so two years ago when we first met him, and he looked so dark and dangerous.” Janice grabbed a hand full of popcorn. “I know he didn’t feel that way even three months ago. I’m not sure I trust the sudden change.” “Love can do that to you.” “You believe he loves me?” “Do you?” “I’m beginning to think he does. I hope to heaven I’m right, because I’ve completely lost my heart to him.” Samantha leaned forward and wrapped her arms around Janice. “Believe me, it will all turn out right.” “Spoken by a wife who’s madly in love with her husband.” “Madly?” Janice giggled. “Completely crazy about him. You look at Jackson and glow.” “I have to agree. And your day is coming.” They ate popcorn, discussed children and love in general. But since Samantha didn’t mention the man trying to hurt her or Drake, Janice didn’t bring it up. She suspected Jackson had refrained from telling Samantha so she wouldn’t worry. **** “Here are the papers.” Jackson slid the contracts across the desk to Drake. “Look them over and, if you agree, sign on the dotted line, and you’ll own a ranch.” He strolled across the room and poured two glasses of bourbon, bringing one to Drake. Drake read through the contract and signed at the bottom. Jackson witnessed his signature. “You have to be at the title company at three tomorrow, and they’ll finish up the process.” Jackson took a sip of his drink. “Drake, are you sure you’re going to be happy settling on a ranch, giving up

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the excitement of your job?” “If you’d asked me a few months ago, I’d have said hell no.” “I gather Janice changed your mind.” “She did. And today I’m surer than that first day I called you.” “I’m glad you’re going to be nearby. What’s happening with the stalker?” “He’s covered his tracks. But Brent is good. If there’s a clue, he’ll find it.” “Be careful.” “I always am.” Drake sipped his whiskey and studied his friend. “You gave up a lot to move back here.” “No. I gained a lot.” “You don’t miss the rat race?” “Not a minute.” “Neither will I. All I have to do now is convince Janice she won’t miss it, either.” Jackson finished his drink. “Let’s go get the girls.” Samantha and Janice had fallen asleep on the couch. Jackson scooped his wife up and took her to bed. Drake carried Janice to their room, placed her in bed, and moved his body against her sexy backside. “Go back to sleep, honey,” he whispered in her ear when she stirred. “We have a big day tomorrow. You get your surprise.” “I know, it’s probably a horse. I have to learn to ride,” she mumbled the words. He chuckled. Her eyes closed. Drake bent forward and breathed in her sweet scent. He was excited about showing her the ranch, and worried about her reaction. His arm wrapped around her middle. She was his. He’d win her heart. He never lost when he wanted something or as in this case someone so much. ****

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“We’re going by truck to get my surprise?” “Jackson’s loaned us his big, bad, black truck. Get in.” “This is all very mysterious.” She stepped onto the running board and swung into the leather seat. Drake went around to the driver’s side. “Is my surprise far?” “It’s a few more miles than if we rode across the fields.” “Hmm, that’s not much of a clue.” Janice stared out at the wide pastures as they rode along a paved, two-lane road. Wildflowers stretched across the land. Their scent blew in the open window. In the distance cows huddled together under a small spot of shade. The road curved around, and they crossed a short bridge over a narrow river. “I don’t know why, but I thought we’d be heading toward town. What kind of surprise might be way out here?” And yet her heart pounded, because she suspected he had very much taken what she said to him seriously. She was sure of it when they turned into a long, tree-lined drive. The driveway curved to the right, and then stopped in front of a large ranch house. Wide verandas circled the white, wood-frame house. The paint looked new, and four rockers stood guard at the front. Hanging baskets of mixed flowers lent color to the porch. Drake turned to her. “And I quote, ‘you’d have to buy a ranch, change your career, want children to make me believe you were serious enough for me to take a chance.’ Is this enough to convince you? I bought this for you. Town folks call it the old Simpson place. We’ll have to come up with another name.” He nodded toward the house. “I’m going to be a rancher. I want children, more than ever since holding Jessica last night, and most important, I love you.” Janice was filled with conflicting emotion. She wanted to throw herself into his arms and yell yes, yes. But could a man change this much in a few months? He’d break her heart if he changed his mind months from now, or worse, years.

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“I’ve surprised you speechless. Come and look inside.” Drake came around and opened her door. When she started to step down, he swung her around and set her feet on the ground. His hands cupped her face, and he kissed her. “I do love you, for now, forever.” She stared deep into his dark eyes. She’d never seen him look so serious. Dare she put her heart into his hands? Did she have a choice since she was already in love with him? “Show me the house,” she said. He took her hand and led her to the front door. “I’ve had some painting done. We can change anything you don’t like, but it needed cleaning up before you saw the place.” They moved into a large living room. One wall had bookcases on either side of a huge fireplace. The other wall had three windows letting in lots of light from the south. Next to the living room was a study done in dark wood with shelves for books and a desk at one end. Behind the desk were more windows, showing a neglected garden area. “A perfect place for you to work at the end of the day,” Janice commented. He took her hand and they passed a large dining room on the right and then entered a long, wide kitchen. “It’s been gutted. I thought you’d like to decide on what you want in here.” Janice walked to the side door and unlocked it. She looked out the screen door. In the back she saw a garage and further along a barn. Trees grew in rows to the right of the house. She turned to face Drake. “Fruit trees?” “Yes, I’m not sure what kind. We’ll find out. I have to hire staff and buy cattle, horses, all that’s needed.” “A big investment. You’ll lose lots of money if you change your mind.” “I’m not going to ever change my mind.” “Show me the upstairs.” They retraced their steps to the stairs leading off the living room.

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Side by side they climbed to the second floor. “There are four bedrooms, two on either side. One has a private bath. The others share the hall bath, that’s the third door down on the left.” “And the door at the end?” “Our room.” He pulled her along and swung the door open. It was a good-size room, not as large as he had in his house in Houston or at the island. But a cozy room. The walls had been painted a light green with new, darker green carpet on the floor. Janice slipped off her shoes and stepped onto the plush rug. She crossed and looked out the window. A grove of oaks grew close and the limbs moved in the breeze. Sunlight cast light across the leaves, making then shine a glossy green. Two other windows on the right looked out over empty fields. “You’ll have a lot of work to do to get this place going.” “I will. I’m looking forward to it.” She loved the feeling of the thick, soft carpet against her toes. She strolled across and looked into the adjoining white bathroom. “An old bathtub with curved feet. I love it.” She saw the two pedestal sinks, and in the corner, a separate shower, but designed to fit the style of a farmhouse. Drake leaned against the doorframe, watching her explore. “What do you think?” Janice walked right up to him. Her fingers took hold of his top button on his shirt and undid it. “I think I’ll take a chance and marry you so I can have this lovely, wonderful home.” His eyes darkened to almost black. “And is this”—he moved his hand to indicate the house—“the only reason you’ll marry me?” She took a deep breath and pulled him, by his shirt, with her into the bedroom. “I suppose the fact that I’m totally in love with you might have something to do with my decision.” A light flashed in his eyes. “Totally?” “Absolutely,” she said and grinned. “What are you waiting for? I

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think we should christen this room by making wild, passionate love.” “You do have the very best ideas.” He lifted her into his arms and spun her around, then set her on her feet and kissed her hard. “First, I do have a ring for you.” He handed her a small box. When she opened the lid, a solitaire diamond, in an old filigree setting, caught the light and sparkled at her. “It’s my grandmother’s ring. As the oldest, Mom saved it for my wife. But if you’d rather have something more modern and bigger, I don’t mind.” “Never. It’s beautiful and has much more meaning than any other ring could ever have.” She held out her left hand. Drake slid the ring onto her finger. It fit perfect. He kissed her hand, and then stared into her eyes. “I, Drake Terrell, do promise to love you for the rest of our lives.” “Oh.” She rose on her toes and kissed him. Tears of happiness clouded her vision. “Can we make love now?” She laughed. “How like a typical male.” “You suggested it first, my love.” “I did. This rug looks soft enough. Let’s try it out.” “Stand right there,” Drake directed. He sat on the floor and pulled his boots and socks off, and then stood to take off his shirt. She reached out to help and he stepped back. “No. This is my time to show you how much you mean to me. I’m going to lead all the way.” His dark brown eyes looked syrupy warm as they gazed into hers. Quickly unfastening his shirt, he let it drop to the floor and his fingers made short work of his jeans snap and zipper. Completely nude, he put on a condom and then reached for her shirt to start undressing her. He undid the buttons, letting his fingers brush across her tender skin. Her mind focused on the brief touches as he undid her clothes and sent them sailing into a pile next to his. A cool breeze came in the windows but couldn’t stop the heat beginning to kindle deep inside

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her body. When he had her nude, he held her hands out and moved back a step to let his eyes roam over her. “Gorgeous.” He stepped back into her space, and his mouth covered hers. His tongue slipped inside, caressing, discovering every tender, sensitive spot. He tasted of peppermint and her tongue tangled with his, bringing a groan up from his chest. Gradually, he pulled away from her mouth. He gently placed her on the plush carpet and leaned over her. His lips nibbled along her neck, over her tender, aching breasts, and licked across her abdomen. Liquid desire wet her lower lips. He passed the junction of her thighs and scattered butterfly kisses on the soft inner skin from her thigh to her ankle. The fire inside her built higher sending heat snapping along her nerves. A slight tremor shook her body. At her feet, he sat back and stared into her eyes as his hands massaged along her arch and even between her toes. Warm hands rubbed over her ankles as he began to retrace his kisses back to the top of her thighs. His fingers separated the pink folds covering her nub and his tongue licked across her most sensitive spot, making her body bow with desire. “Your scent entices me and you taste as sweet as sugar.” He licked all along the folds to the opening to her pussy. Then he slipped two fingers into her. She clenched tight and moaned. His tongue raked across her sensitive clit while his fingers moved in and out of her hot passage. Molten heat sent fluid gushing between her pussy lips. She begged for him to enter her. Instead, he moved up and fastened his mouth over her breasts, sucking hard and his thumb rubbed across her clit. A sharp zing went straight to the inner walls of her pussy. Her hips bucked as her release sent her into a frenzy of excitement. She’d barely begun to recover when Drake spread her legs and

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plunged deep inside. Her muscles grabbed hold of him and tremors raked along his hard cock, sending her into another spasm of pleasure. **** Drake had forced himself to go slow. To show her how he loved every inch of her. Her sweet taste, her musky, sexy scent tormented him as he held back. He loved her moans, her body movements, her quick, rapid climb and then her wet heat tightening around his almost painfully hard dick. Her tremors drained him. His arms shook as he raised himself over her and stared into the face of the woman he loved. “That is how much I want you and love you.” **** Later, showered and dressed, Drake drove them into Saddle Creek. Janice glanced around at the stores. “It’s not a big town but has most of the stores we’d need on a daily basis. Look, there’s a restaurant. Shall we eat?” Janice asked. “I need to stop here briefly and sign some papers, and then I promise to feed you.” He parked the truck in front of the bank. “Do you want to go in with me?” “If you don’t mind, I’m going to window shop. Why don’t we meet at the restaurant? I’ll be walking in that direction.” Drake gave her a quick kiss on her lips. “See you there soon.” She waited on the curb while he turned and walked inside. His body had a sensual, sleek way of moving. Faded jeans fit snug across his backside, and his brown cowboy shirt showed off his wide shoulders. He looked handsome and carried an aura of mystery and a bit of danger. Well, she’d better start her walk and not stand here drooling. Saddle Creek’s shops were quaint, and enticed one to enter and

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browse. The second door down from the bank housed a bookstore. A bell tingled over the door as she went inside. “Welcome.” A young, blonde woman smiled from behind the counter. “Can I help you?” Janice started to say no then thought about how little she knew of the area. “Do you have any information pamphlets or books about the town?” “A few. Let me show you.” She walked around the counter and pointed out a rack on the back wall to the left. “Anything I have is there. Guess I need to get more. You’re the second person this week to ask me. More and more people are moving here.” “My fiancé and I will become residents after our wedding. My best friend is Samantha Stone.” “I know her and Jackson. They grew up here. Welcome to Saddle Creek. Hope I’ll see more of you after you move in.” “Thanks.” Janice placed two small pamphlets on the counter. “Those are free. Hope they help.” The woman waved to Janice as she left the store. Janice glanced in some other windows, but didn’t take the time to stop. She was thirsty, and Drake would be looking for her. She stepped into the cafe. The cool air was a welcome change from the heat outside. Several booths were built along the front wall with windows looking out to the street. One was empty. Most of the tables in the center were also occupied. “Sit wherever you want, honey. I’ll be right there.” A tall, buxom woman with a head of bright red hair smiled in Janice’s direction. Janice slid into the empty booth facing the door. They were here. His hands shook. He’d been waiting for two days to hear word of their arrival and now he was caught in an uncomfortable position. He raised his newspaper. Thank goodness that stupid, loud waitress had brought his food. He’d take his time eating and when necessary use the paper to hide. She’d sat right next to his booth, but with the high backs she’d never noticed him.

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If they talked loud enough, he’d hear their plans and make his accordingly. With luck this could work out in his favor. “Hi, honey. You’re new in town. I’m Billie, part owner, part cook, and part waitress of this fine establishment.” She laughed at her own joke. “What can I get you?” “A glass of tea with lots of ice. I’ll wait to order when my fiancé arrives. He’ll be here shortly.” “No problem. Take your time. You passin’ through?” “Actually, we’re going to be moving here. My fiancé bought the old Simpson place.” “I wondered who was buying it. Heard someone was doing renovations to the house. Welcome to the community. I’d better get to work.” She waved the coffeepot in her hand and made rounds to all the tables, filling cups. She was engaged. Fury filled his gut. He’d waited for her and she’d never given him the time of day, but Drake Terrell had money. He should have known when she chose her first fiancé what she wanted. Well, he’d fixed that one before her wedding. This time, though, he’d fix them both and finally be free of her and the men she screwed. His hands curled into fists. He’d kill Terrell and then take his time with her. Maybe he’d get some for himself first, before he took her life. Right, he deserved it. She gave it out freely to everyone else. “Hi, honey.” Drake slipped into the seat across from her. “That cold tea looks good.” He reached out and took her left hand. “I was beginning to doubt I’d ever get a ring on your finger.” He leaned back against the padded seatback and gave her his sexy smile. “You know, I’ve paid a lot to get you to be mine. Quite a bride’s price, but”—he kissed her hand—“you’re worth every dollar.” “I hope you still think so after my dad gives you the third degree.” “Can he or your mother change your mind?” “No.” He’d heard enough. He felt sick to his stomach. Hell, they’d never

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recognize him in this freaking cowboy outfit and hat. He had to get out of here. He pulled the hat low, and sauntered to the cash register. Thankfully, the man took his money. His low voice wouldn’t get their attention. After he paid, he put his paper under his arm and quickly walked across the short distance to the door. Outside, he turned right to avoid being seen in the window, and hurried back to his rental car. He’d go to the motel, on the outskirts of town, and get ready for his final plan. A thrill swept through him. He’d killed before, and it had given a sensation he hadn’t felt since. It had been much too long since he’d felt that zing. He couldn’t wait to see their faces when he surprised them.

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Chapter Ten Drake stopped at a general store. They bought one large sleeping bag, some extra towels, milk, bread, sandwich meat, mayonnaise, and chips. Janice added sodas, and paper cups and plates to the growing pile. “This ought to get us by for now. We’ll eat most of our meals with Samantha and Jackson until we head back day after tomorrow,” Drake said. “I got the lights and, as you know, the water turned on the last time I was here.” Drake picked up the check. “Ready?” “Yes, are we going to Jackson’s place?” “We are, at supper time,” he said, and pulled her tight against his side as they waited for his change. “Why not now? I can’t wait to tell Sam about our engagement and show her my ring.” “First, you and I have to discuss our future.” Drake held the door. Janice stepped into the noon heat. Heat waves simmered over the two-lane blacktop road leading out of town. “It’s going to be a hot summer.” “I know just how to cool you off. There’s a stream not too far from the house, and on our property. We’ll go there, swim, and decide on our future plans.” A narrow lane wrapped around the house and past the garage and barn. Wildflowers and weeds grew side by side in the wide open pastures. Drake took a turn to the left and they were driving toward a hammock of oaks. Behind the oaks the river sparkled like a silver ribbon. Drake parked the truck and reached in the back to grab the

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lightweight blanket they’d just bought. He put his arm around Janice’s waist and guided her through the trees to the river’s edge. He spread the blanket in the shade from the overhanging trees. Janice took off her boots and put her feet into the water. “Oh, it is cold.” There were little rocks and sand under the swift-moving, shallow water. Several birds chirped in the trees and the sound of the river gurgling across rocks added to nature’s symphony. Overhead, a few clouds drifted across the blue sky. Drake sat on the blanket and watched her. “Come sit with me,” he said. She stepped out of the water and joined him. He grasped her hand and pulled her down beside him. “Will you be happy here?” He threw out his hand to encompass the empty land around them. “Six months ago, I’d have said no. I never understood Samantha’s love of the wide open spaces, and I’m not much of a cowgirl. I won’t be until I learn to ride better.” Drake laughed. He ran his finger down her forehead and nose, then kissed her lips. “What changed your mind?” “You, and realizing I didn’t want the life my parents had, or the one I’d visualized for myself with my first fiancé. We were goaloriented. No children for at least five years, and then only one. Jobs first, always. Then I watched Samantha and Jackson with their family, the happiness they’d created. “And a lot of other things. I’ve felt especially lonely since the phone calls started. There is no lonelier time than the middle of the night when you are either sick or scared, and no one is with you to comfort, cuddle, and reassure you.” She stopped talking and stared into the distance for a minute, and then turned to face Drake. “What about you and your flying all over the world doing business?” “I signed off last week in Washington. My last trip convinced me where my priorities are.” He put his arms around her and lowered her to the ground. “This is the perfect spot to celebrate our life beginning

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together.” “We did that earlier in our new bedroom.” “What can I say. I want to do it again.” His dark-chocolate eyes sparkled at her. He rubbed his hand along the side of her face. “I want to start here.” His lips lightly brushed her forehead, then her temple. He took a deep breath. “The air is scented with wildflowers and your hair smells of violets.” He pushed her hair back and nipped her earlobe. A shiver of desire stirred down below. His lips trailed along her neck to the place where her heart had begun to beat faster. Drake unbuttoned her blouse. His lips caressed the curve of her breast, and her nipple hidden by her bra. He kissed each spot he uncovered. She lay with her eyes closed, letting the warmth and all the sensations created by his mouth sink into her. He raised her into his arms and removed her shirt and bra, before returning her to the blanket. His mouth suckled on her nipple, drawing a tight, hot feeling from between her legs. She rolled him on his back. “It’s my turn.” Her hand reached to unbutton his shirt. **** Her body straddled him, her crotch rubbing against his cock. Soft hands brushed his skin as she went along his shirt, undoing the buttons. Distracted by the desire ratcheting upwards, he almost missed the slight vibration under his head. Forcing himself to focus, he pushed the back of his head harder against the ground. No, he wasn’t mistaken. A vehicle moved along the dusty path toward them. A prickle washed over his skin. He put his hands on hers, halting her enticing progress. “Grab your shirt and bra and run for the truck.” Momentarily stunned, she stared into his eyes. “Now!” She blinked then moved quickly. Drake took hold of the blanket and had circled the truck, thrown in the blanket, and was in the

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driver’s seat by the time Janice closed her door. “What’s going on?” she asked. “Maybe nothing, but a car is headed this way on a road that hasn’t been used in a long time except for you and me.” He knew if he kept going straight he’d come out on a two-lane road that ran on the other side of the ranch. “You think it might be the person who’s trying to kill us?” “Probably not. But I’m not taking any chances. I’m sorry about back there. I was stupid to relax my defenses and take a chance on you getting hurt.” “Apparently they weren’t too relaxed. I didn’t hear anything. How did you know?” “A reverberation under my head. I could be overreacting.” He turned onto the paved road. “There’s a gas station up ahead,” he said. “I’ll retrace my steps and check on my suspicions.” “No. I want to go back with you.” “Not going to happen.” He stopped outside the door to the gas station store. “Here.” He handed her a small handgun. “Put this in your purse. If anyone strange drives up, go to the back of the store, open your purse, and hold onto the gun until they leave. You can pretend to be shopping.” “I don’t like this.” “Neither do I. Get out, honey. I won’t be long.” Drake watched her reluctantly go in the store before he pulled away. If the man was smart he’d go back the way he came. He’d know there was only one way out going straight and Drake might be waiting for him. Drake’s best bet was to take his chances on circling back to the front. He might make it before the other car, but Drake was further away from the main entrance to the ranch. He had a longer way to go around. His foot pressed on the gas pedal, sending the truck screeching around several curves. When he hit the straight part of the road, he increased his speed even more.

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He’d been a fool to forget for one moment. The guy had planned good. Lulled me into a sense that he had decided to wait for us back in Houston and then strike. If Drake hadn’t noticed the vibration, their stalker, killer, whatever he was, might have succeeded. Drake slowed for the last curve. Coming around on another straight stretch, he saw a gray car in the distance. Could that be him? He’d have made very good time. Drake hesitated, then slowed and turned in to the entrance. He parked the truck to the side of the road and reached for the high-powered rifle he’d borrowed from Jackson earlier. He got out and moved into the bushes. Slowly, he made his way through the wooded area surrounding the road. There was hardly enough breeze to move the leaves on the trees and all the birds seemed to have found someplace to hide from the heat that shimmered across the ranch. In the quiet, a single twig breaking would echo. Drake removed his shoes and stepped carefully across the pine-strewn ground. **** He wiped his arm across his face to keep the sweat on his forehead from getting into his eyes. Hot air hung heavy and he found himself breathing hard, as though through a thick curtain. He hadn’t expected them to be here. When he found no car around the house, he’d driven further, scouting out the area for tonight. How had the asshole known he was around? He’d heard the engine start and guessed no one else would be on this road but them. He turned immediately to leave, but then afraid Drake might catch him at the entrance, he’d hidden his car in thick brush and hunkered down to wait for nightfall. As he sat, his mind whirled with thoughts. Damn the man for ruining his plan. He’d be watching for him around here. In fact, he might be hunting for him now. I’ll leave the car. Hitchhike to the next town and fly back to Houston tonight. Better to live another day and

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have another chance to succeed. He took his small bag out of the back seat and scurried across the road. Then, he followed the stream to a small, gravel country road. He moved faster, heading east, hoping he’d find a highway and a sucker driving alone. Maybe he wouldn’t hitch a ride—he’d take the ride for himself and ditch it at the first opportunity. **** Drake treaded lightly through the brush. Nothing. No sound, and no sight of any human. He quickened his step, heading down the dusty lane in the direction they’d taken. Darting behind a tree, he took a swig of water from the bottle he’d stuck in his pocket. He wet his bandana and wiped his face. He sensed the man had gone. But how had he gotten away? He hiked quicker through the brush. His rifle ready in his hands. Something silver shone in the sunlight and caught his attention. He turned toward the left, and being very cautious, he crouched and waited. Then he saw the rest of the car hidden partially behind a stand of trees. “Come out with your hands up,” Drake called out. No one answered. “If you don’t show yourself, I’m going to shoot toward the car,” he warned. A single bird flew out of a bush, heading toward the clear, blue sky. Drake knew instinctively he was too late. Whoever he was, he’d gone. Still, he moved carefully to the car and checked the area, but didn’t touch anything. He’d ask the sheriff’s office to check for prints. He’d better go to Janice. Hopefully whichever direction he took, he didn’t go to the gas station. Hurrying now, Drake ran back to his car and swung around to go to Janice. As he swerved around the curves he expected at any moment a sheriff’s deputy’s light to go on behind him. He’d pay the fine. His heart pounded, fearing he’d make another wrong decision

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and the stalker would have found Janice. When he stopped and she came running through the door, relief washed over him. **** “You didn’t find him?” “I found his car. He must have taken off on foot shortly after we left. Did you see anyone hiking along the road?” She shook her head. “No one came by at all except for one car. A man and his wife, lost. They were looking for a highway east of here.” “Let’s go to Jackson’s. I’m not taking a chance of you staying at the house tonight. Jackson and I will hide out there and hope the guy returns.” She studied his face as they drove off toward Jackson and Samantha’s ranch. “You don’t think he will return, do you?” “No. Temporarily, we’ve frightened him off. But he’ll try again.” He glanced across at her. “My guess is he has a love-hate type of obsession about you. He won’t give up until he’s stopped, but he’ll go back to familiar territory.” “Houston?” “Yes.” “When do we go back?” “Tomorrow. I’m going to end this so we can concentrate on our wedding.” He smiled at her. “Got any ideas?” “A few,” she said. Drake turned into the drive to the house. “There’s Samantha waiting at the door.” Janice waved and got out as soon as the car stopped. “Did you like your surprise?” Samantha asked her. “Both the ranch, and this.” Janice held out her hand. “What a lovely ring. I love the older setting.” Samantha gave her a hug. “I’m so happy. I can’t believe we’ll be neighbors.” “Neither can I. I never saw myself on a ranch, but I’m beginning

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to think I’ll like it.” “Come in and have a glass of tea. I see Drake is headed to the barn. Jackson must have waved at him. We’ll have time for a cozy talk.” Janice glanced over her shoulder at Drake. He and Jackson were talking. Drake nodded and pulled out his phone, punching a number. Samantha tugged at her hand. “Let them do the worrying. They’ll work out the problem.” “I hope so. I’d looked forward to staying the night in the ranch house until Drake realized we had company.” “The stalker? Jackson told me about him this morning.” “Drake thinks so,” Janice said. She wanted to tramp across the dusty barnyard and demand to be included in whatever they were discussing. But Samantha kept tugging at her hand until she followed her inside. **** “Brent, our guy was here. He left the car he’d used to get to the ranch, and took off before I could catch him. You find any new info?” “We’re getting close. I think I’ve identified the mole. We’ve been checking into the guy who used to work at Janice’s office. Seems her company has cameras in different spots around the building. I got hold of their old tapes and checked the day Janice got the paper with the note on it. Our guy came in early that morning with a paper under his arm and left without it.” “Wouldn’t he have known about the cameras?” “No. They put them in about six months after he left. There’d be no reason for anyone to mention them to him. Most of the staff probably forgets they are even there. Where they’re placed isn’t real obvious.” “That doesn’t seem like much though. He’ll say it was a coincidence.”

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“True, but in talking with some of the staff at his office we found out he hates Judge Dedrick and his daughter. He says she got the promotion he should have been given. They say he blames her father and her. Giving this guy information to harass her gets his revenge and keeps his hands clean.” “Sounds good. What’s the next step?” “We’ve been working with the police. They’re getting ready to take him in and interrogate him.” “Maybe if he gets worried enough about himself, he’ll give you all the stalker’s name. We’re heading back tomorrow. I’ll see you then.” Drake snapped his cell phone shut. “I take it Brent’s closing in on someone?” Jackson asked. “A man that used to work with Janice and has kept close ties with some of the people at Janice’s workplace. He may have given out information to get back at her because of a promotion she got instead of him. Brent and the police are going to confront him.” “Why not leave Janice here until things are more settled? Samantha would love her company.” “One, can you see Janice staying behind? And two, he might circle around and try to get her instead of me.” “I’d be watching, and my men. You’re right though, it’s a moot point, she’d never agree.” “In my past I’ve dealt with a few men similar to our stalker. He must be boiling about now, and an angry man makes mistakes. We’ve got to be ready to take advantage of them,” Drake said. They strolled toward the house. “She accepted my ring.” Jackson stopped in his tracks. “Well damn, I’m going to have new neighbors.” He shook Drake’s hand. “Let’s go have a toast. This calls for barbecued steak and a bottle of my best wine.” **** The old man had been easy. He’d been the first car to pass by.

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When the car stopped, he’d immediately pulled his gun and shot the old geezer, dragged him into the weeds, and was headed to the big city, Austin. Good thing he had his bag. He’d packed a disguise and false identification. The guy that did the ID was a professional in his line of work. It had cost him, but was worth it. He’d fly out of Austin under a pseudonym, and wear the wig and makeup. They’d never track him. He was too smart for all of them. They’d try to find his prints on the cars, but he’d worn gloves whenever he touched the door handle or anywhere inside. The hot air blew in the window. Crappy car, the old man didn’t even have air-conditioning. Well, he’d dump it in the next town and steal a different one to get him into Austin, then park at a business close to the airport. He’d find a way, bus or taxi, to get the last few miles. When he drove into the nearest small town, he found a side street, donned his disguise, and left the car. He strolled along a shaded walkway and stopped at a convenience store, where he bought a drink and sandwich. Taking the bag the guy at the register handed him, he headed out the door, glanced both ways, and began to walk. This time he’d find a car that had air. If you were going to steal, you might as well take the very best. He could hardly wait to get home. They were nearing the end of this game. His blood pulsed with excitement. The old man had been too easy, but Drake was a challenge. He planned to win the next round.

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Chapter Eleven “Did you and Samantha make all the wedding plans?” Drake teased her as they flew toward Houston. “We didn’t. I must warn you, Mother and Father will insist on a big wedding in our local church. I’d prefer to be married in a small church near the ranch, but since I’m marrying someone they won’t approve of, I need to at least let them have their way in the plans.” Janice smiled at Drake’s groan. “All right, honey. But I want you to know I’d never go through this for anyone but you.” “Well, I hope not.” She leaned across the separation of their chairs and kissed him. “I’ll make it worth your effort later.” Drake raised his eyebrows, “I’m keeping you to that promise.” Janice laid her head back and closed her eyes. They’d left early. Drake wanted to see Brent, and Janice had to visit her parents. They would not like her news. Instinctively, she knew Drake was not the type of man either of them would have chosen for their daughter. Her father especially wanted her to marry a lawyer that was settled and on his way up. The idea of one that quit the law to run a ranch would be completely incomprehensible to him. She glanced at Drake. He was reading a magazine on ranching. His dark brown hair fell across his forehead. He’d dressed in a blue shirt that stretched tight across his wide shoulders, and jeans that emphasized his long, muscular legs. Heat began to build in her just observing him. And then he looked up, that sexy twinkle in his eye, a smile softening the hard contours of his face. “I felt you staring.”

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“I love you,” she said. He got up and came to her chair, lifted her into his arms and settled on the couch with her on his lap. “You’re worried. What’s the matter?” “Not really, more concerned about my visit to my parents.” “Why not wait and I’ll go with you tonight? Call and tell them we’ll be by. Don’t mention my name. We’ll do this together. I haven’t told you about the time your father and I met. He isn’t going to like you marrying me.” “He wasn’t going to like you marrying me if he’d never met you. What happened?” Drake told her about their brief meeting. “I didn’t bow to him, and his eminence was not impressed with me.” “Oh, dear. He’s my father, so I love him, but I don’t always like him. He is stuffy and expects perfection.” “Did he like your first fiancé?” “Yes, Ted met his requirements. He was serious about his work, and on the way up. Dad approved of his résumé. In fact, I’d never thought about it before, but Dad brought him home right after he hired him and introduced him to mother and me.” “And you fell in love.” “Not right then, silly.” She ruffled his hair. “We began to work together, go out with the crowd after work, and then he asked me out. It was a slow process. He was a nice, sweet man. I suppose if I’d married him, we would have been happy.” She brushed her lips across Drake’s. “I’d have never met you, or if I had I’d have been very married by that time. What you haven’t experienced you won’t miss.” “You mean never having been with me, you’d not know the difference?” Drake asked. “Yes. I never thought I was a very passionate woman,” she said and smiled. “I expected and thought I wanted a quiet, contented life, busy with my work, and I’m almost certain Ted had the same expectations.”

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“By the time you were fifty, he’d be a judge and perhaps you, too.” “Something like that.” Drake pulled her closer against him and tilted her face toward his. “I’m sorry he lost his life, but I’m not sorry I’ve met you and derailed your plan to be a career woman and nothing else.” His mouth came down hard on hers. She tightened her arms around his neck and pushed her breasts against his chest. Her heart pounded and heat washed over her. One of his hands moved along her back and the other cupped her breast, his thumb rubbing across the peaked nipple. He leaned back slightly and stared into her eyes. “I love your passion, your smart brain, the way you smile and giggle at times. I love all of you.” Tears came into her eyes. “I know, and I love all the ways you’re different from other men. You are your own man.” He gently wiped the tear away that had run down her cheek. “Guess we’d better get that wedding planned soon. I want to start our lives together. Of course, we do have one small problem to take care of, which is catching the guy who wants to kill us.” “A minor problem, with you and Brent on the job.” Janice kissed his lips and cuddled into his shoulder. “I may fall asleep, I’m so comfortable.” “Go ahead, I’ll be right here when you wake.” **** Brent met them at the airport. “You all want to go eat lunch?” “I do,” Janice said. “If you like Italian, I know just the place.” She gave Brent directions to her and Samantha’s favorite restaurant. “The food smells great before you even get in the door,” Drake said as they got out of the car. Janice requested her favorite table, and after ordering, they sat

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back to sip on their wine. Brent sat across from her and Drake. “Do you remember mentioning the man that used to work at your office? The one you thought might have written on your windshield?” Brent asked. “Yes. Is he the one?” “We’re almost certain he’s the mole. We’ve been following him to see if he’d lead us to the one he’s passing information to, but he hasn’t met anyone in particular. I expect he makes phone calls. The police are following up on our information.” The waiter brought the large, steaming pizza. They all took a piece. “Man, this is good,” Brent said and smiled across at Janice. “Samantha and I discovered this restaurant one Saturday when we were out and about.” “You still don’t have any ideas about the identity of the guy who has been trying to kill us?” Drake asked. Brent swallowed and took a sip of his wine. “I’ve had a bad feeling about the car mechanic, the newest worker at the shop. I’m not sure why. When I had talked with him what he said sounded fine, believable, but there was something off, maybe his attitude. Whatever I haven’t been able to put him out of my mind, so I went by the shop where he works today. He was there. Talked with his boss again, and he mentioned the guy had just returned from vacation, said he’d been to visit his mother.” “Does his mother live in Texas?” Drake asked. “The boss didn’t know. I asked him not to say anything about my questions. I have my best man checking his history. We’ll find the mother and see if he really was with her. Meanwhile, we’ll be watching him.” “Janice and I are staying close together until the stalker is arrested. We’ll go by my house to see how the work is going, and to her house so we can change before visiting her parents tonight. Keep in touch.”

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“Will do. Now let’s shut up and eat,” Brent said. He grinned. “You two lovebirds might be able to live on love—I can’t.” **** Her mother had suggested Janice come for dinner. She told them she was bringing a friend. Her mother tried to question her about who, but Janice managed to put her off. Now headed to her parents’ home, butterflies were flitting around in her stomach. Drake drove his fancy sports car and had dressed in a tailored blue suit. He looked very handsome. He reached out and took hold of her hand. “Nervous?” “A little. Dad has always been a bit overwhelming when he’s angry or upset in any way. It’s been easier to let him have his way.” **** A bully that frightens his women to keep them under his control. Drake didn’t verbalize his thought. Janice certainly didn’t ordinarily let others ride over her. Perhaps her determination not to was a direct result of her father’s overpowering persona. He hadn’t like the man before and liked him less now, but he was going to be his father-inlaw so he’d have to find a middle ground for Janice’s sake. He wasn’t looking forward to this visit, and from seeing Janice’s tense posture, neither was she. The house was big, square, and sat on a hill slightly above the neighbors. Drake pulled into the curved driveway and parked a short distance from the front door. He turned to Janice. “Are you sure you’ll be happy in an old farmhouse after this?” He motioned to the house. “Definitely.” He curved his hand around her cheek and chin. “Nothing that happens tonight will have any effect on how I feel about you.”

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“I know.” She turned her head and kissed his palm. Her touch always warmed him. “Let’s get this done, then.” Drake got out and came around to open her door. “I promise to be on my best lawyer behavior.” Janice chuckled. “I can’t wait to see what that is, as I’m sure I haven’t observed such a phenomenon before now.” Drake took her hand and they started toward the door. “That’s what I love about you, your smart mouth.” A maid dressed in a black and white uniform opened the door. “Judge and Mrs. Dedrick are waiting in the family room. Please follow me.” Not even a family greeting at the door. This did not bode well. Drake had a feeling the judge had checked around and knew exactly who was arriving with his daughter. “Dad, Mother.” Janice stepped forward and kissed her parents on the cheek. Her mother gave her a small hug—her father’s eyes were on Drake. “Mom and Dad, this is Drake Terrell, my fiancé. Dad, you may have met him before. He’s a lawyer. Drake, my parents.” Drake stepped forward and shook Mrs. Dedrick’s hand. He turned to the judge. The man’s blue eyes were cold, and he hesitated just a second before putting out his hand. The shake was brief. “Please be seated.” Her mother motioned them toward a striped couch. “Clara will bring us hors d’oeuvres. What would you like to drink? Janice, do you want white wine?” “Yes, Mom, thank you.” “I’m having bourbon, Terrell. Want to join me?” Her father held up the bottle. Drake nodded, and her father poured a shot into a crystal glass. The maid had come into the room. Judge Dedrick handed Drake’s glass to her, and she passed the drink to Drake. She also carried a tray with various appetizers, stuffed shrimp and oysters, cheese and crackers, and other tasty morsels. Drake ignored the Judge’s continued frosty behavior and put several of the tasty treats onto a

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small plate. He handed it to Janice, then took the same for himself. No one spoke for a moment as they ate. “These are very good, Mom. The cream cheese mixture on the cracker is new.” Janice turned to Drake. “Mom has always made her own hors d’ oeuvres.” “They are wonderful, Mrs. Dedrick.” “Thank you.” She smiled her perfect smile, but Drake saw her anxiety in her tense muscles, especially around her mouth and eyes. Janice’s father sat as far away as he could and stared hard at the two of them. “Where did you two meet? Isn't this engagement rather sudden?” he asked. “The first time at Samantha’s wedding, and then not again until the auction,” Janice told him. “Humph, I never understood why you volunteered for such a spectacle.” He held up his hand. “I know it was for charity, but there are others ways of making money for a cause without making a fool of yourself.” Anger burned in Drake’s stomach. He took hold of one of Janice’s hands and stared back at her father. “Janice has never done anything to make a fool of herself. She was beautiful and poised on the stage.” “You’ve hardly known her long enough to make such a broad statement,” her father snapped. “I know your daughter well enough to understand she would never do anything to make the people she loved feel foolish, or to make herself feel that way. You underestimate her, Judge.” “And just who are you to come into my house and, after knowing her a relatively short time, tell me about my daughter?” Judge Dedrick stood to emphasize his words. Clara came to the door. “Dinner is served.” Drake watched the judge struggle to regain his calm. He suspected there were few who chanced angering the big man. “Please, let’s go to the dining room,” Mrs. Dedrick said. She led the way, Janice behind her, and the men followed. Drake felt her father’s heated glare between his shoulder blades. Determined to try

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and ignore the older man’s dislike, he smiled and pulled out the chairs for Mrs. Dedrick and Janice. He walked around the table to sit facing Janice. The meal was delicious. Conversation had been kept to a minimum, as they were all aware the judge still seethed underneath his outward calm. How many times had Janice and her mother had to tiptoe around the bully, Drake wondered. “Mrs. Dedrick, I’d like to offer my compliments to the chef. Would that be you?” She blushed at his words and nodded. “Do I dare hope you taught your daughter how to cook this wonderful roast?” Now, she smiled. “I have tried. Janice can cook quite well, although she usually prefers not to, but it is difficult to cook for only one or two.” “We hope to have a large family. Her cooking skills will come in handy.” Drake winked at Janice, who blushed bright red. “That is enough, young man.” Judge Dedrick threw down his napkin. “Enough, sir? Did I eat over my limit?” All thoughts of being pleasant to this annoying man left Drake. “Dear.” Judge Dedrick glanced at his wife. “Stay here with Janice while I and this upstart have a discussion in my office.” “Father, I...” “You will stay with your mother. Or does he need you to protect him?” her father sneered. Janice looked across at Drake with a worried, almost tearful expression. “It will all be fine. Enjoy your visit with your mother. I am going to explain a few particulars to your father.” Drake walked behind the judge down a hallway to a room on the right. The paneled walls were a rich, dark wood. Several heads of animals hung from the walls. A huge, dark wood desk sat in the middle of the room. The top clean and polished. In fact, everything in

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the room was precisely in place. Judge Dedrick walked behind his desk and sat. He didn’t offer Drake a chair, so Drake pulled one for himself right in front of the judge. A frown crossed the older man’s face. “That doesn’t go there. Put it back.” “No. Maybe others are afraid to challenge you and sit in your presence, I’m not.” “Listen to me, young man. You will not marry my daughter!” Drake leaned across the desk, putting his face close to the judge’s. “No, you will listen to me. You’re involved in politics, and I’m sure you eventually want to go higher than simply being a local judge. I can stop you.” “How dare you threaten me.” “It not a threat, more an explanation. I know the right people and have a lot of money. A word here or there, contributions to anyone you run against, and you’ll never have a chance.” Drake straightened, but never lost eye contact with Janice’s father. “What do you want?” Her father glared at him. His face had turned a bright red. “I love your daughter. I am going to marry her with or without your approval. For myself, I don’t care, but Janice loves you. She’ll be hurt if you cause difficulties. So you won’t.” “And how do you plan to stop me? I don’t cave in to threats.” “Check my credentials. I worked for the government. I can take good care of Janice and any family we may have. We don’t need you. You need me. Call me tomorrow.” Drake turned on his heel and strolled out of the office. Janice stood at the door to the family room. Her facial muscles were drawn tight with tension. “Where’s Dad?” “He’ll be along in minute. He’s checking on some facts.” Drake had no doubt the judge had immediately contacted some of his people. “Shall we join your mother?” He motioned to where Mrs. Dedrick sat by the tea and coffee set. “I’d enjoy a cup of coffee and

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some of that lovely chocolate cake,” he said to Mrs. Dedrick and nodded at the platter on the table beside her. Mrs. Dedrick served the coffee and cake. They had a stilted conversation while everyone waited for the judge. Drake was furious that the judge was taking so much time to return. Both Janice and her mother were tense and barely able to carry on a conversation. When the judge appeared at the door, Drake heard a soft sigh from the women around him. Damn the man. Judge Dedrick smiled at his wife and daughter. “I’m sorry I’ve kept you waiting. I had several important calls I had to take care of before rejoining you. Is that your famous chocolate cake, my dear?” “Yes, I’ll cut you a piece.” Mrs. Dedrick sprang out of her seat and with trembling hands cut a slice and poured her husband coffee. “Well, Janice. This young man of yours has convinced me he loves you and will take good care of you. You and your mother had best start making the plans for your wedding.” His eyes met Drake’s for a brief second, before he hugged his daughter. Evidently, his informants had verified what Drake had told him. Good. Now to make a quick exit out of here. Her father apparently had the same idea. He ate his cake quickly and looked relieved when Drake suggested they leave. “I’ll call you tomorrow, Mom. We’ll meet for lunch and start making arrangements. Neither Drake nor I want a long engagement.” Janice glanced at Drake. “She’s right. I’d run away and marry her tomorrow, but I know how important the wedding ceremony is to the ladies. Guess we’ll have to put up with all the parties and the large wedding, Judge.” “She’s our only child. Her mother and I will want to do right by her.” Drake put his arm around Janice’s waist and urged her toward the door. Her mother turned on the outside lights as they stepped out. Janice turned her head and waved. “Bye, Mom and Dad.” They waved back and then the door snapped shut.

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“What a perfect ending,” a man said, moving out from between the hedges. “Do I know you? What are you doing here?” Janice asked. A frown crossed her forehead. But Drake saw the gun. “You must be the mechanic?” “What do you mean?” Janice asked. “He means I’m your admirer, your caller, your destiny with death.” He yanked off his hat and blond wig. Drake saw the comprehension and the fear hit her at the same time. “Can you tell us why?” Drake asked, stalling for time. “I’ve loved her for years. She used to come in with that milksop lawyer she planned to marry. I fixed him.” “You caused Ted’s wreck?” Janice asked. “I did. Clever of me, wasn’t it? I thought perhaps you’d eventually start noticing me, but you quit coming to the shop, and I had to change jobs to work where you brought your car. I smiled at you, and you ignored me. Oh, you said thank you, but you didn’t really look at me. Did you!” He screamed the last words at her. Good, he’s losing control. If only her father or mother would look out a window. The man sauntered closer, a smirk on his face. “Finally, I bid on you, but this man had too much money for anyone else to compete.” Janice moved herself to lean against Drake. “I love him.” She put one hand around his waist, under his coat. Drake knew she’d seen him put his gun behind his waistband earlier. He felt her fingers grasp the gun handle. Looking down into her eyes, he tried to will her not to put herself in danger. “Get away from him,” her stalker screamed at Janice. Drake put his hand behind him and took hold of her arm. “Do as he says, honey.” Drake pulled on her arm, taking possession of the gun as she slid her arm out and stepped away from him. Drake let his arm fall. In one smooth movement, he pointed the gun up at their attacker and shot.

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The man’s face went blank. He fell forward, and his gun fired into the concrete driveway. Drake had already thrown his body over Janice’s when the other gun went off. Drake’s cell rang. Brent’s number showed on his phone. “Drake, don’t go out. We’re on our way. I was right about the mechanic.” “I know. We left our dinner party early, and he met us outside. He’s dead. I see the judge and his wife heading our way. Got to hang up.” Judge Dedrick pulled his daughter into his arms. “You are all right?” he asked Janice. “Fine, thanks to Drake.” Her mother held out her arms, and Janice went into her embrace. Janice was trembling, and Drake wanted to pick her up and carry her away, but sensed she needed the attention from her parents. Her father turned to him and frowned. “What’s going on here? Was this person after you? Did you put my daughter in danger?” “No, Daddy.” Janice spoke before Drake could answer. “This man had been stalking me and wanted Drake dead because I cared for him. He admitted he killed Ted, too.” “Apparently, sir, he’s been obsessed with your daughter for years,” Drake added. The older man had gone pale. Drake took his arm and walked him inside to a chair. Janice and her mother followed. “We’d better call the police,” Drake said. The judge took a deep breath. “Already did. I think I hear their sirens.” Drake left the others and went back outside just as the first patrol car drove up, followed almost immediately by his brother and his men. “Damn, I’m embarrassed,” Brent said. “Why?” “I almost got you and Janice killed.”

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“It wasn’t your fault.” “Still I feel like I missed something. The police brought that guy, Clyde, in for questioning. The one she used to work with years ago. He didn’t want to talk, but when they told him if you two got hurt he’d be charged as an accessory, he changed his mind. “ “I hope he gets charged for this attack,” Drake said and stared across as the attacker’s body was carried away. “I can’t see why he won’t be. I had a guard on your assailant’s house, so after that phone call from the police, we forced our way in. He was gone. The sucker had a tunnel running from his house to the back street, and as I see from that wig lying over there, he must have worn a disguise. I called you as I headed this way.” “You didn’t fail us, Brent. The man was crazy, but very intelligent in a twisted way. He’d been planning to get Janice for a long time.” He and Brent walked toward the police. Looking more himself, the judge, with all his pompous self showing, joined them. It was going to be a long night. Drake glanced at the door. Janice stood in the entrance, a worried expression on her face. Whatever they’d had to go through, it was all worth it to finally know she was safe, and she’d be his wife soon. He winked at her, and then turned to join the others.

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Chapter Twelve Drake stood at the front of the church with his father and two brothers by his side. The pews were filled to the brim. Everyone had wanted to come to Judge Dedrick’s daughter’s wedding. The air conditioner blew the scent of flowers around the church. Drake kept his eyes focused on the doorways to the sanctuary. He waited impatiently for his bride to arrive. Judge Dedrick and his wife had insisted on an elaborate wedding. Janice had agreed and gotten caught up in the excitement of the showers, making the arrangements, and generally having fun. Drake had been surprised to see his level-headed fiancée actually enjoying herself in all the madness. He’d been determined to control his restlessness, and sat back happy to see her pleasure. But finally, it was over. The time was now, and in a few hours they’d fly to his private island for their honeymoon. The organ began to play, and the wedding party began to walk down the aisle. Several of Janice’s closest friends were her bridesmaids, and her maid of honor, Samantha, followed them. Then, Janice and her father appeared in the doorway. Drake’s heartbeat jumped at the sight of his red-headed love dressed in a gorgeous white gown, walking down the aisle toward him. Her sweet smile went straight to his heart. **** Janice’s hand tightened on her father’s arm. “Nervous?” her father asked.

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“A little, mostly excited,” she whispered as they moved into the doorway to wait for Samantha to reach the altar. “You do like him, Dad?” “I don’t know that he and I will ever be good friends, Janice. We’re too different, but I respect him, and I do believe he sincerely loves you.” Her father nodded to the front of the church. “Time for us.” He put his hand briefly over hers where it lay on his arm, and then they stepped onto the carpet leading to the front. Janice glanced down at the heart-shaped bodice of her gown and the full satin skirt with embroidery trim. When she looked back up, she saw Drake’s eyes looking at her with love, and her whole body warmed. Without speaking, her heart heard his words, I love you. The ceremony didn’t take long, but the party afterwards was going on forever. Janice and Drake walked around thanking their guests for coming. She hugged Drake’s father and mother before turning to hug Brent and Ty. Janice leaned back and stared at Ty. “I’m so glad you decided to come. You’re all right?” “I’m fine. You didn’t think I’d miss my big brother’s wedding, did you?” “I hoped not. Who’s taking care of the ranch?” “Our foreman.” Ty leaned closer and whispered in her ear. “Promise me you won’t waste a minute of your life. Hold him close and love him every day.” “I will, and I know he’ll do the same for me. But, I want you to promise me something.” Ty raised his eyebrows. “What?” “Let your heart open to love again.” He started to frown at her, and his hands tightened around hers. He took a deep breath. “You two look very serious.” Drake walked across to them from where he’d been standing talking with the rest of his family. “What’s up?”

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“Janice and I were just talking. Isn’t it about time you two left on the honeymoon?” “I’ve been ready,” Drake said. “Can we get out of here, honey?” “Sure,” Janice said. She turned to go with Drake and Ty touched her arm, stopping her. He whispered into her ear. “I’ll try.” Her hand curved around his cheek. “Thank you.” “Should I be jealous?” Drake spoke in a teasing manner. “Silly man. Let’s go say good-bye to everyone.” **** The jet landed late in the afternoon. When Janice had suggested they go to the decadent bedroom onboard, Drake said no. “We’re going to celebrate our first joining together as man and wife at my villa. It will be very special,” he’d said. “My, I think I married a romantic, and here I thought I was getting a dangerous, mysterious man.” “I’m dangerous and mysterious, just not in the way you thought.” Janice smiled, remembering his words as they rode to the villa high on the hill. The windows reflected the many colors of the sunset as it had on her first visit. “This is the most beautiful time of day,” Janice said. “I agree, but early morning is special, too. You’ll see tomorrow.” “That’s right, I didn’t get to see the sun come up before because you wanted a fling.” “Just shows how stupid we men can be at times.” He kissed her mouth and squeezed her hand. “I’m glad you taught me different.” Keoni drove them right up to the front door, where Ulani greeted them with a big smile and two of her tall, sweet island drinks. “Welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Terrell,” she said. “Thank you, Ulani,” Drake said, and Janice added her thank-you. “Keoni and I will be leaving on the jet. You can reach us anytime you need to.” Ulani handed Keoni a bag and got in the truck with him.

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“See you in a week.” They waved as the truck wound back down the winding road. Janice put her arms around Drake’s neck and leaned against his body. She was fully aware of his arousal. “We are all alone for a whole week?” “Yes. Scared of being here with this dangerous, mysterious man?” “Should I be?” Her lips brushed across his mouth. “I intend to spend the majority of my time pleasuring you.” “What are you waiting for?” “This can’t be hurried. We’re going back to our first date here. We’ll walk in the gardens. Eat a delectable meal that Ulani left for us, and then I’ll show you my room. But first you’ll use the room with a good view of the sunset to change. Go in here.” He opened his bag and gave her a present. “Wear this for me.” Janice opened her gift as soon as she got in the bedroom. The dress was short, and made of a silky, gold material. She took her time showering, combing her hair out, letting it fall around her shoulders and down her back. Then, she pulled the dress over her head. The material clung to all her curves and stopped at mid-thigh. She was glad she’d brought gold sandals with her. She put them on, sprayed her perfume around her shoulders, and stepped out the door to go to the main room. Drake stood facing the windows, watching the last of the sunset. He’d changed into casual black slacks and a white shirt. She saw the brief flare of fire in his eyes when he spotted her. She began to swagger across the space between them. He stared fixedly at her, lust and love in his expression. “I thought that dress would be perfect for you when I saw it in the window. But I was wrong. You’re perfect—the dress only emphasizes your beauty.” His hands reached out and touched her hair. “This is what first caught my eye, and then”—he glanced down—“your beautiful, long, legs came second.” “How long did it take you to get to my face?”

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“I’m not sure, many minutes.” He grinned and she laughed. She stepped all the way into his space and rubbed her body against his. His cock pulsed against her stomach. “Sure you don’t want to visit your room first, and then eat?” “I do, but I’m not going to. Come, let’s walk in the gardens.” He took her arm and led her out and down around the terraces. The sweet, tropical scents surrounded them. In the distance, waves lapped gently against the shore as the moonlight began to shine across the ocean. A breeze blew over them. Janice looked around her and back to the villa. “Will you keep this now that you plan to be a gentleman cowboy?” “Yes. We’ll come back on vacations and anniversaries, plus my family loves to visit, and I don’t doubt Jackson and Samantha will want to celebrate some of their anniversaries here. Do you agree?” “Absolutely. I just wasn’t sure if you could afford the expense of this place, the ranch, and the house in Houston.” “Well, at least I know for sure you didn’t marry me for my money.” She was puzzled. “What do you mean?” “Honey, I’m surprised your dad or Samantha or someone didn’t tell you. I’m one of the owners of the TRC organization.” “TRC the name sounds familiar.” She thought hard. Where had she heard the organization’s name? Then it hit her. Her father and his partner had been talking with Ted, one day shortly before her wedding and his death. They’d said if they could get TRC signed, they’d be their biggest client. “What do the letters stand for,” Janice asked Drake. “Terrell’s Ranch and Conglomerate. It started out just as Terrell’s ranch, but as we all spread out in other directions, we decided together we’d have more control and clout.” “You’re very rich?” Drake laughed and pulled her to him. “Yes, I hope you won’t hold it against me.”

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“It just takes some getting used to. I don’t know why I didn’t figure it out, but I guess between falling in love with a handsome playboy and having a stalker calling me in the middle of the night, I had other things on my mind.” Drake kissed her. “I love you.” Janice wound her arms around his neck. “When are you going to feed me so we can get to the most important part of the evening?” He chuckled, put his arm around her waist, and directed her back to the house. “We’ll find a cold meal in the refrigerator. But first we need music to accompany our food.” He went to a cabinet and pushed a few buttons. Soft music began to play from hidden speakers. Outside the windows the moon shone bright and numerous stars dotted the night sky. Drake nodded toward the patio. “Go and sit. I’ll bring the food.” Janice went out and found a seat at a table to the side of the open glass doors. She took in a deep breath of the sweet air. This had to be the most beautiful and romantic place in the world for a honeymoon. She watched as Drake brought out two plates filled with shrimp and several cold salads. He sat them down and then went back and returned with two glasses of white wine. Lifting his glass, Drake said, “To us. May we always be healthy and happy.” His dark eyes looked into hers, sending a bolt of desire straight to her core. Janice sipped her wine and tasted the food. “Ulani is an excellent cook.” “She is, and she and her husband take good care of all of this while I’m gone.” Drake spread his arms to encompass the house and island. He pulled his chair closer to her. Janice smelled his cologne and the heat from his body warmed her. “Do I have to clean my plate before we go to your room?” “No. I’m sure I’m not going to last much longer before I carry you off.” “It’s been your choice, not mine.” “I know, but I wanted you to relax and I wanted just the right

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atmosphere before we went into our room.” She looked at him, puzzled. “The right atmosphere?” “Come.” He took her hand and led her inside and down the hall. Standing behind her, he reached around and opened the door. “Go on in.” The cover over the glass ceiling had been slid back and moonlight from all the windows and overhead poured into the room, highlighting the dozens of white orchids that lay across the end of the bed and were on every available space in the room. On one pillow a gold chain glistened with a huge emerald hanging from the center. Janice stood amazed at the beauty laid out before her. A flowery aroma permeated the air, and a cool breeze blew the billowing, thin, white drapes surrounding the bed. She laughed with joy. “A movie set could not have been designed more lovely. I can see why you wanted full nighttime with the moon up for the most beautiful effect.” Drake scooped her into his arms and carried her to the bedside. “I can’t wait another moment to see you lying across my bed.” He moved his hand behind her and pulled down the zipper to her dress. The dress fell off, showing she’d worn no underwear. He picked up the necklace and clasped it around her neck. The emerald hung right between her breasts, glowing against her white skin. She trembled with the intense need to feel him inside her. The look on his face, his dark eyes, his sexy mouth raised her temperature to boiling. “I want you, inside me, around me, touching me all over,” she whispered as he lifted her and placed her on his bed. **** A stab of desire hit him so hard it almost brought him to his knees. His cock was rock-hard. He’d been hard most of the evening, but he’d waited. He wanted her to see the room in its most beautiful state. Her face had reflected her pleasure. He followed her down, covering her

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smooth, hot body with his. He bent his head and kissed her soft lips. A breathy sigh escaped her mouth. His tongue slipped into her sweet warmth to tangle with hers. “You have on too many clothes,” she whispered. He rolled on his back, bringing her up and over him. “Then undress me.” Her fingers brushed across his chest as she unbuttoned his shirt. Just her light touch sent electricity zinging up his spine. When she’d undone his belt buckle and the snap on his pants, his cock pulsed with hunger. She pulled his zipper down and closed her hand around him. Then she leaned close to lick the spot of moisture from the tip. Her dark red hair spilled over his hips as she took him into her mouth. She’d moved down where her legs straddled his and now began to move her lips up and down his throbbing cock. His pleasure rose to an almost painful level. He gripped her silky hair and groaned. She raised her head and smiled, and then spread her hands across his chest, her fingers rubbed his nipples, her lower lips brushed across his supersensitive cock. She straightened. Her full breasts with rosetinted nipples stood out, as her slim hips settled across his. Her porcelain skin shone in the moonlight. Red hair curled around her sweet face and down her bare back. She was stunning, enchanting, in the light of the moon and stars. He let his fingers trail across her pebbled nipples and down her curves to the curls covering her clit. His fingers felt for the tiny nub and rubbed. Her body arched. Drake placed his stiff cock at the opening to her wet pussy and slid into her heat. Her pussy’s inner walls clenched tight around him. His heartbeat pounded with desire, a raging passion for only her. She moved slowly at first, up and down as his fingers caressed her breasts with one hand, and the other rubbed her clit. Her head fell back, her long hair swaying across her shoulders and back. Her tempo

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began to move faster, and an incredible, all-consuming blaze of heat spread across his nerve endings. He took hold of her hips and pounded into her, a voracious hunger leading him on. She met his every move, her hands touching, her mouth kissing his body and following the rapid pace he had set, plunging toward the pinnacle of delight. He felt the tightening in his balls, the fire and hunger, the need sending him exploding over the crest of the wave. In the distance, he heard her cry of joy as she collapsed on top of him. Their breathing ragged and fast and their hearts pounding against each other’s chests. He held her tight as her inner walls convulsed around him, sending more pleasure spiking through his body. When they’d recovered, he glanced down at his pants still around his ankles. He kicked off the rest of his clothes. “Guess there wasn’t much finesse in my performance,” he said. “Give me a moment to recover and I’ll do better.” “Every part of it was perfect, just liked you planned. I am the luckiest woman in the world.” “Maybe I aimed too high and there is nowhere to go from here?” he teased. She rolled over and half across his body. “Oh, no, there’s always room for improvement. I can’t wait to see what the next time brings.” He ran this finger along the shape of her lips. “Perhaps, it will bring a baby. I’d like a little girl with red hair just like her momma.” “Auburn,” Janice said. He laughed. “You’ll always be my redheaded lover to me. Happy?” “Absolutely,” she said. She raised forward and kissed his mouth. “I was so sure I could resist your sexy eyes, and dangerous, delectable body. Look at me now.” Her smile covered her face and her eyes glowed with love. “I’m looking and I love everything I see inside and out of you, my love.” He rolled her onto her back. “Let’s work on making our baby.”

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Epilogue One year later Janice Terrell lifted her baby daughter, Lacy, out of the crib. “Time for you to make an appearance, love,” she said to the tiny babe. “I’ll carry her downstairs.” Drake reached for the baby and settled her in his arms. Lacy opened her eyes to stare up at her father. Janice watched as a smile curved the tiny rosebud mouth. “She’s as susceptible to Daddy’s charm as all the other women are, including me.” Janice hugged daughter and husband, and ran her hand across the baby’s soft red hair. “I do believe she heard you and willed herself to have really red hair. You seem to get all your wishes,” Janice teased Drake. He kissed Lacy’s brow. “I got my most important wishes with you two. Let’s go, sweetheart, and let the others see how pretty you are,” he said to the baby. Downstairs their families and friends waited. They’d planned a weekend for them all to visit and meet and enjoy Lacy. Of course, her mother and mother-in-law had been here for Lacy’s birth three months ago. Samantha had been a help through the pregnancy and birth, and in helping with the decorating of the farmhouse. Janice glanced around as they walked down the steps to the living room. She loved the house. Drake had bought horses and cattle, and the ranch was up and running. Standing by the door, Janice saw her brother-in-law, Brent, talking with one of the local teachers. A quiet woman that Janice and Samantha had become friends with during the past year.

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At the bottom of the steps, Ty waited, a gentle smile on his face. Drake stopped and handed the baby to him. Ty looked startled at first, then studied the tiny infant. Janice held her breath for fear Lacy might not like being given to someone other than momma or poppa. Lacy studied her Uncle Ty right back, and then yawned, closed her green eyes, and fell asleep. Janice touched Ty’s arm. “She likes you and trusts you. She won’t go to sleep for just anyone. I think you’re prime material to be a father.” “You need a wife for that,” Ty reminded her. “Now that you mention it, I knew there was something I needed to work on.” Drake and Brent overheard her. “Watch out, Ty. There’s nothing more dangerous than a happily married woman. Her goal is to see that all the men around her are caught and lassoed,” Brent said. “That’s true,” Janice replied. “You’d better be watching out also.” All three brothers had circled around Janice. Ty still held Lacy. “She’s a dangerous woman,” Ty said, nodding at Janice. “I know. She said I was dangerous, but she was throwing up a smoke screen so I wouldn’t notice the net she’d cast,” Drake said. He winked at Janice, the love in his eyes evident to all the bystanders. Janice looked around at her father, who was genuinely smiling, her happy mother, Drake’s sweet parents, and all her friends. Her heart was full to bursting with love and happiness. Drake came to her side and wrapped his arm around her while they watched their baby sleep in Ty’s arms. “We’re really rich, Drake,” Janice whispered to him. “I know and if I lost every cent I’d still have my most precious treasures.” Drake held her close against him. They watched their baby being passed around the family circle. He leaned down and spoke for her ears only. “After they leave let’s go upstairs and work on having a boy.”

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Playfully, Janice pushed him away. “Get out of here. You always get your wishes, but this time I want to wait at least until Lacy’s two.” “I suggest a compromise, one.” “Eighteen months.” “Sounds good, but we still need to practice.” “I agree with that suggestion,” Janice said, and winked, then leaned her head back against his solid chest. Her whole world was together in this one room. Before she met Drake, she thought she had all she wanted. Her life had been organized, and busy. He was totally her opposite in so many ways, still was at times. But his impulsiveness and fun side balanced her need for planning and structure. They complemented each other in the best ways. Lacy had made the rounds and Janice’s father placed the baby in her arms. Drake excused himself and walked across the room to speak with his parents. “She’s the sweetest baby I’ve seen since you were born. I’m happy for you. We can’t all have the same dreams,” her father said. Janice went up on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek. “Thanks, Dad.” She knew in his own way he was apologizing, and how hard it must have been for him. “We expect you and mom will visit frequently. We intend to give you several grandchildren to spoil.” Her father glanced across at Drake. “He’s a good husband?” “The best.” “I guess I’ll have to like him then.” He smiled at her and Lacy. “Of course, my revenge will be if his son decides he wants to be a judge and not a cowboy.” Judge Dedrick and Janice laughed so hard she had tears in her eyes. “That’s just plain mean, Dad.” She smiled and glanced at the baby. “And who knows, maybe Lacy will be the one to follow in your footsteps. The main thing we want for any children we have is for them to find their own way.” Drake came striding across the room. “You two are having too

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much fun. I want in on what’s so funny.” “Dad’s hoping to convince Lacy to be a judge,” Janice said, and they both roared with laughter at his expression.

THE END WWW.PAIGECAMERON.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Born in Florida, Paige Cameron’s early dreams included being a movie star. Of course, it didn’t happen. Later, she escaped into daydreams full of fascinating stories. Her friends had to endure her reading those tales to them when she began to put them to paper. There were detours in her life for marriage, children, and traveling to foreign countries where her husband’s job took her. She continued to be an avid reader and dream of the day she’d have a book published. She finally got started writing and divorce sidetracked her. Now, happily married to her hero, with grown children, she decided to pursue her dream career, writing.

Also by Paige Cameron Siren Classic: The Earl’s Intriguing Imposter Siren Classic: Scandalous Seduction Everlasting Classic: The Duke’s Blind Temptation Siren Classic: Propositioned by a Lady Everlasting Classic: Wives for the Western Billionaires 1: The Billionaire Cowboy Takes a Wife Everlasting Polyromance: Wyoming Warriors 1: Commando Cowboys Capture Their Mate

Available at BOOKSTRAND.COM

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