The Dance

THE DANCE

Jami Davenport

EROTIC ROMANCE

Siren Publishing, Inc. www.SirenPublishing.com

A SIREN PUBLISHING BOOK IMPRINT: Erotic Romance ABOUT THE E-BOOK VERSION: Your non-refundable purchase of this e-book allows you to one LEGAL copy for your own personal use. It is ILLEGAL to send your copy to someone who did not pay for it. Distribution of this e-book, in whole or in part, online, offline, in print or in any way or any other method currently known or yet to be invented, is forbidden without the prior written permission of both the publisher and the copyright owner of this book. THE DANCE Copyright © 2008 by Jami Davenport E-book ISBN: 1-60601-087-5 First E-book Publication: July 2008 Cover design by Jinger Heaston All cover art and logo copyright © 2008 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

DEDICATION To Francesca. We're going places, girlfriend! To all my friends at TSARM: You made me believe in myself and my writing. Without your encouragement, I never would have pursued publishing. To the Orca whales living in the San Juan Islands, who are truly part of the magic of that place.

AUTHOR’S NOTE I am one of the fortunate few who have had the whales come to me while boating in the Straits of Juan De Fuca. My characters also enjoyed such an experience, but that does not mean that I condone disrupting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Washington State law requires that boaters maintain a reasonable distance from the Orca whales and to disengage their transmission when in their presence. I wholeheartedly support Washington State's and San Juan County's efforts to protect the whales. To learn more about our resident Orcas, I encourage those visiting the San Juan Islands to visit the Whale Museum in Friday Harbor.

THE DANCE Jami Davenport Copyright © 2008

Chapter 1 The Fall Okay, who turned out the lights? Was she dead? Did they have mud in heaven? Sticky, gooey, cold mud? Certainly heaven’s mud wouldn't smell like rank fertilizer and stale water. A distant voice penetrated her muddled brain. Mariah Baker wiggled her toes and fingers to test each one. Lifting her head, she scraped the mud from her face with her gloved hand. Her blurry eyes focused on two large cowboy boots about a foot away. Angels didn't have big feet and wear scuffed cowboy boots. “Are you okay?” A deep, sexy voice vibrated with concern. She tried to raise her head higher. A large hand to match those big feet entered her field of vision. “What happened...?” “You fell off your horse.” Oh, yeah, she remembered now. An invisible horse-eating troll lurking in the nearby woods scared her ditz-brained gelding. He’d bucked and sent her flying like a rag doll, ending with an ungraceful face plant. At least it was a soft landing, as last night’s rain had transformed the footing in her riding arena into a mud bog. “Are you all right?” The man sounded rattled. “Mmmm.” “Don’t move. You might have broken something.”

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“Nothing’s broken. I just had...the wind knocked out of me.” She choked and spit out a mouthful of mud. The owner of the cowboy boots squatted next to her. Long legs, strong thighs, narrow hips, broad chest. Definitely heaven. With a groan, Mariah pushed herself to a kneeling position and came face-to-face with Adonis. Well, at least he could have doubled for a Greek god. His appearance tickled her memory, yet she was certain she’d never met him. She blinked a few times to clear her vision and stared. And stared. And stared. Heaven wouldn’t have temptations like him. He’d turn any good girl into a very bad girl. A day’s growth of beard darkened his handsome face. His unruly brown hair begged for attention from a decent stylist. He wore clothes most garage sales wouldn’t bother to sell. His threadbare jeans had never seen a designer label. Yet his disheveled appearance didn’t come close to concealing his model good looks. Suffice it to say, the man fit every clichéd description of a hero in a romance novel, despite his scruffiness. Too bad she'd sworn off men as of last night. So what if he was kissyour-heart-goodbye gorgeous? Unfortunately, her heart wasn’t listening. Instead, it told her brain to get lost and snuggled up next to Mr. Scruffy, at least in its dreams. He might appear scruffy, but he smelled wonderful in a clean, masculine sorta way. His scent actually permeated the smell of rancid mud that clung to her body. Without thinking, she leaned closer to get a better whiff of his expensive aftershave. A dedicated shopper, Mariah knew expensive when she saw it or smelled it. She’d also bet a winning lotto ticket he wore a Rolex watch and Gucci sunglasses. Raising her gaze back to his face, she found him staring at her. He removed his sunglasses and shifted his gaze from her lips to her eyes. The man had the most incredible brown eyes, as yummy as a chocolate mocha espresso fringed with long, black eyelashes. Now why did guys always have eyelashes like that when they never appreciated them? Those mocha eyes sucked her in like dust bunnies sucked into a vacuum cleaner. She felt light-headed. And hot. Really hot. Taking a deep breath,

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Mariah gathered her composure—and her dust bunnies—about her like a suit of armor. Relax, girl, relax. This guy radiated sexual energy like the sun radiated heat. She’d just been gobbled up by his magnetic sensuality. He was dangerous, and she didn’t need a guy like that to complicate her life. Get rid of him, the sooner the better, her boring good girl side warned her. “I’m Ric...” He hesitated. “I’m Rodrigo Perez.” He studied her with interest, as if waiting for a reaction. “I’m staying at the Delgado’s vacation house for a month. That’d make me your neighbor.” He held out his hand to her. She stared at it, while her mind stalled somewhere between fantasy and reality. He cleared his throat to get her attention. Her cheeks burned with embarrassment. He grinned with amusement. His hand still hovered in midair. Mechanically, she removed a mud-encrusted glove and offered her hand to him. His long fingers surrounded her smaller hand with a firm but gentle hold. His thumb traced a sensuous circle on her palm. He lifted her fingers to his lips. His warm mouth grazed her trembling knuckles, lingering on each one. All the while, his dark eyes never left hers. Mariah fell for his technique, hook, line, and sinker; stupid, gullible woman that she was. A five-alarm siren clanged in her head, and she jerked her hand away. The sudden movement dislodged a mud clump from her riding helmet, and it plopped onto her nose. The irritating man raised one dark eyebrow. His mouth twitched in a suppressed smile as he dabbed the mud with his thumb. It was a good thing she was still kneeling or she’d have crumpled to the ground in a heap of female hormonal mush. He dabbed the mud with his thumb. It was a good thing she was still kneeling or she’d have crumpled to the ground in a heap of female hormonal mush. “And you are?” “I’m Mariah,” she croaked, feeling like an idiot. “Well, Mariah, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” “Thanks.” Rodrigo straightened to his full height, leaving Mariah to stare at his belt buckle, tight jeans, and... Oh, my. “Can you stand?” He didn’t wait for an answer but bent down to help her. Avoiding his touch, Mariah scrambled to her feet. “Are you sure you’re okay?” Concern gentled his brown eyes.

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“I am. Really. I’ve fallen off many times. It’s nothing. Something in the woods scared my horse.” “Can’t imagine what that would be.” He shrugged and looked away, shifting his weight from one cowboy boot to another. Sueño, her gray gelding and the guilty party, wandered over and stuck his head between them. Mariah picked up his reins. “Where did you...? I mean, how did you...?” Her brain couldn’t seem to form words. His amused grin didn’t help. “I was walking along the road and saw you launched into the air like a human catapult. I ran over to check on you.” “Thank you for helping me.” She wiped her face with the bottom of her T-shirt. She must look a fright. And she considered him scruffy? “I’m just glad to see you’re okay.” A slight accent blended with the rich timbre of his voice. A handsome man with an accent made for an even more deadly combination. Attempting to be inconspicuous, she rubbed her clammy hands on her thighs. Her horse stirred beside her, and she glanced at him. The big busybody hadn’t missed a thing. One furry ear swiveled to catch each tidbit of conversation. His eyes followed their every move with interest. Mariah glared at Sueño. Maybe you’d like some popcorn and a beer while you watch me squirm? Whose side are you on? After all, who feeds you? Help me out here, will you? Sueño shook his long forelock over his eyes and ignored her. Knowing she was on her own, she searched for something clever to say. She turned into a blabbering idiot around most men. She doubted the Prince of Grunge would be an exception. “You’re staying at Max and Carmen’s house? It’s...it’s really nice. I’ve been in it. I did some work for them about six months ago. Carmen wanted the rooms redone in a country style, something relaxed. I looked all over Seattle for just the right...” Now, she was blabbering, but what woman on earth would blame her? “Yeah, it’s a great place. I’m enjoying it. Very private and peaceful,” he agreed smoothly. Did the man ever sweat or get nervous? Mariah considered it a good thing he had tacky clothes, or he’d be too perfect. Pulling herself together once again, she put on her polite cocktail-party voice and inquired, “Where are you from, Rodrigo?” His accent intrigued

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her, and much to her surprise, she imagined him whispering Spanish to her in the middle of the night. “I spent the first eight years of my life in Puerto Rico. Now I live in LA. I’m here on Orcas Island for a vacation.” He paused to look around him. “Do you have any idea what a view like this would cost in Southern California?” “I can’t begin to imagine.” Mariah glanced around, but her mind barely registered the spectacular scenery. The horse arena sat on a bluff overlooking a small cove. In the distance, the San Juan Islands glittered like jewels on the water. A green and white Washington state ferry wound its way through the myriad of passages bound for the Orcas ferry landing. To the north, the boats in Deer Harbor floated lazily in the morning sun. Even in her most tumultuous times, this place had brought her peace. Unfortunately, the taxes and expenses on the place were driving her out. That stack of bills on her desk increased exponentially in comparison to her meager income. Rodrigo coughed and brought her attention back to him. He wrung his hands together. “I have to confess. I’ve been watching you ride for a few days.” “You’ve been watching me ride?” Oh, great, her neighbor was a stalker. Even as she considered it, she didn’t believe it. He appeared to be a professional heartbreaker, not a stalker. She’d almost married a man like him once so she recognized the type. Besides, tourists from the nearby resort stopped on the road occasionally and watched her ride. “Uh, yeah.” Rodrigo pushed his hair off his forehead and looked down at his feet. He seemed worried about how she’d interpret his confession. “I was walking by earlier this week, and I saw you through the trees. I’ve never seen anyone ride a horse like that. It’s pretty amazing.” Mariah glanced up at him. A shock wave zipped through her system. She stepped away and added more space between them. “Thank you. I’m...I’m surprised you found my riding interesting. Most people would rather watch concrete dry.” He raised one eyebrow. “What do you call this type of riding you do?” “Dressage, a very old equestrian sport. Actually, it’s more of an art form than a sport when it’s done correctly.”

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“How do you steer him? With your thoughts?” “No, not really. I use subtle signals from my leg and shift my weight in the saddle, but there are times when it seems as if he’s reading my mind. When we’re in sync like that, it’s the most incredible feeling. It’s like we leave this planet, as if we’re in a different plane of existence. It’s hard to explain. Time slows, has no meaning. It’s almost...holy. Athletes have a term for it. They call it being in the zone. Sueño and I seem to find that zone together more than any horse I’ve ridden.” Mariah stopped. She'd told him way too much. To his credit, his eyes didn’t glaze over from sheer boredom. “How long does it take to learn to ride like that?” “It takes years. This horse is my baby. I raised and trained him myself.” Mariah patted her gelding’s coat. “You’ve done a great job, but it’s more than training, even I can see that.” She looked away for a moment then met his eyes, feeling a little jolt right down to her toes. “Yes. Yes, it is,” she admitted in a soft whisper. She didn’t speak of her connection with this horse to just anyone. Non-riders didn’t understand. In fact, most riders didn’t understand it either. Rodrigo reached up to pet the horse. Sueño lowered his head so the man could scratch a preferred spot behind his ears. “He likes you,” she noticed with surprise. “He’s very picky about his people. I can’t believe he’s letting you pet him. He's very perceptive about people. I should listen to him more....” “Si, you should. I love animals.” Rodrigo interrupted, stroking Sueño’s neck. Her horse gave him a hard push with his nose. “Feel free to smack him when he does that. It’s rude.” “Why does he do it?” “He wants a carrot.” “A carrot? Sorry, big guy, I don’t happen to have one on me.” Rodrigo held his hands out, palms up. Sueño sniffed at each hand. “He doesn’t deserve a carrot when he behaves like that.” Expressing his opinion against the no carrot rule, Sueño gave her a hard push and knocked her off balance. Rodrigo came to her rescue again and caught her before she fell, holding her a little too close. Her body betrayed her, and her heart and mind followed. Throwing her good-girl reputation to the wind, she fastened to him like Velcro. His warmth soaked into her pores.

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That hard, muscled chest pressed against her soft contours. She inhaled the scent of his aftershave and filled her lungs with his essence. Heaven could never feel this good. Sueño snorted again and tugged on the reins, yanking her back to Pacific Daylight Time. Leaping backwards, she extracted herself from Rodrigo’s arms. Keeping a safe distance from the two males, she studied them warily. Rodrigo didn’t seem to notice or care that his white T-shirt now sported several muddy spots. “You know, you shouldn’t let him get away with that.” Humor glinted in his dark eyes. “He’s being rude.” “Thanks. I’ll remember that.” She didn’t trust her voice enough to say another word. She’d just clung to a strange man like he was a Titanic lifeboat and enjoyed every delightful second of it. **** Wiping his now muddy hands on his jeans, Rico Sanchez, aka Rodrigo Perez, took a second to gather his composure. That close encounter with Mariah flustered him more than he wanted to admit. The feel of her body against his went beyond mere physical attraction and approached the dangerous. He shoved his hands in his pockets and adopted a casual pose. Under that mud was one classy woman. He didn't want to scare her off by acting like an uncivilized ass. Unfortunately, he’d already earned the title of ass. For starters, he’d been skulking in the woods watching her ride and freaked out her horse. He had no idea horses were such flaky animals. While scaring the horse had been an accident, lying about his name had been deliberate. He wasn't sure what had prompted him to do that. She might not even recognize the name if she'd heard it. It'd been so long since he'd been in the news. He was here to find the person he'd lost, the real person under the public image. He needed to be around people who didn't have any preconceived notions about him. Since his popularity had gone down the tubes, the only women interested in him were gold diggers and publicity seekers. The Gold Diggers had no clue that his money had followed his popularity into the

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toilet. A little white lie about his identity in exchange for a month of anonymity wasn't too much to ask. The horse snorted and pawed the ground, demanding her attention. Rico looked at the animal. It blinked its big brown eyes at him. Perhaps he had an ally in that furry, four-legged beast. “What’s his name?” After all, a guy should know the names of his allies. “Sueño. Sueño Araña.” Removing her riding helmet, she plucked a clump of mud and grass from her long mahogany hair. “Dream Weaver,” Rico mused. “Is he your dream weaver?” “I guess you could say that.” Mariah chewed on her lower lip. “I really need to clean up and finish my ride, Rodrigo, but it was nice meeting you.” “Nice meeting you.” She hesitated then leading Sueño, she turned away and walked through the gate toward the small red barn. Rico watched her go. He knew a dismissal when he heard it, but that had never deterred him before. He didn’t give up that easily on a woman who intrigued him. Reluctant to let her leave, he hurried after her. She glanced at him but kept walking. “Do you need something else?” “Uh, yes. What’s the best restaurant around here?” “Rosario Resort has good food. It’s not cheap, but the view of the bay is worth the price. They have a piano bar and dancing, too.” “Sounds romantic.” She blushed and looked away, increasing her pace. Damn, he almost had to run to keep up. Now there was a unique situation: Rico Sanchez running after a woman. Well, a damaged ego was worth a reprieve from the loneliness. Talking to her made him forget how empty he felt inside. He checked out her left hand and didn’t find a ring. He made it a practice not to mess with another man’s woman. He did have his scruples. They entered the barn, and Mariah tied Sueño to a post. The wide aisle was neat and tidy with a couple stalls on both sides. Rico watched as she used a wet paper towel to clean her face. Even in her messed-up state, she enchanted him. Right then, he knew what he wanted to do. A little romance never hurt anyone, and he could use an attractive distraction like her. “What time can I pick you up?” He grinned. With an expertise born of practice, he disguised his insecurities behind a wall of cocky confidence.

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“I don’t even know you.” Her green eyes took on a stubborn glint. Rico focused the full heat of his gaze on her. “Have dinner with me tonight, and we can work on that.” He flashed his most disarming grin, guaranteed to charm the resistance out of any woman. In his younger years, he’d mastered hustling a woman to the point of perfection then to the point of boredom. He suspected hustling this woman would prove to be anything but boring, especially as out of practice as he was. His gaze roamed over her killer body. The skin-tight riding breeches and soiled tank top did little to hide her delectable curves. In fact, the mud stuck to all the right places. He smiled in true appreciation as he brought his eyes back to hers. Her cheeks turned redder than a stop sign when she caught him staring. “So, what time?” “I can’t, I have plans tonight.” “Change them please.” He smiled and turned on the Latin charm, attempting to disarm her reluctance. Her emotions played across her face, making her as easy to read as a theater marquee. He’d never considered innocence to be sexy before, but it sure as hell was on her. “Sorry.” “You break my heart.” He put his hands to his chest. “I doubt that. It was nice meeting you, Rodrigo. Now I must get back to work.” She turned her back on him. Rico opened his mouth to protest then snapped it shut. He loved challenges, and her refusal only encouraged him. He shrugged and walked away. The possible scenarios played through his mind like an old, erotic movie reel. **** Mariah waited several minutes then snuck from the tack room. She peered out the barn door and down the road. Rodrigo had taken the hint and left. Something caught her eye in the aisle. His sunglasses. Picking them up, she studied them. Gucci. They probably cost more than she made in a week. Putting the sunglasses on the shelf, she decided to finish her ride before she took a shower. A little mud wouldn’t kill her. She led Sueño back to her

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riding arena, irritated at the man's presumptuous attitude and at the fact that she'd have to see him again to return his sunglasses. “Who does that guy think he is, Sueño? I can’t believe he waltzed in here like he owned the place and assumed I’d go to dinner with him. The jerk.” The gorgeous, presumptuous jerk. With resignation, Sueño accepted his role once again as her four-legged confidant. He sighed one of his long-suffering sighs and stood quietly. He let her carry on, taking it like a man, well, actually, like a gelding. “The nerve of him. Good looks don’t give a guy a license to have anything he wants. Besides,” Mariah huffed, “did you see his clothes?” She stopped and looked down at her muddy shirt then started giggling. The anger drained out of her like someone pulled the plug. “I’m sorry, you put up with a lot from me, don’t you? Here I am, ranting about some fashion-challenged Latin with hypnotic eyes who wanders down my driveway. Earlier I was carrying on about the lousy blind date I had last night. I should stick with horses. They’re safe, honest, and loyal.” Sueño watched a butterfly flit past his nose and yawned. He nudged her to move her along. “It’s time to get down to business, huh? I guess you’ve heard enough of my babbling for now.” Taking in the beautiful morning, Mariah couldn’t help smiling. She'd never regretted her decision to leave Seattle for the peace and quiet of the San Juans. The morning sun peeked through the trees and reflected off the water in the cove. Strips of sunshine formed bright patterns of light on the ground. She savored the warmth soaking into her bones. As a true Pacific Northwesterner, she appreciated sunny days even more than she appreciated gourmet coffee or I-5 without traffic. Mariah gathered her reins in one hand and swung herself into the saddle. Sueño stood motionless until the slightest squeeze of her legs told him to move forward. She walked him around the arena a few times, giving him time to warm up his muscles. To a casual observer, the gray gelding plodded along like an old plow horse until Mariah picked up the reins. Then he came alive. Sueño’s controlled power surged beneath her. She sat motionless in the saddle because even the most inconsequential movement on her part disturbed their delicate harmony. Sueño’s hooves drummed the ground in a

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hypnotic, steady rhythm as he floated across the arena. For such a large animal, he was light and graceful, changing his direction and speed with fluid ease. In a magical union of two species, they danced in the morning light. **** Rico lounged in a deck chair by the pool, oblivious to the million-dollar view laid out before him like a postcard. The Delgado house was nestled in a private cove and bordered Mariah’s farm. The large, two-story cedar home sprawled over a wide expanse of lawn that ended with a small private beach. Rico’s eyes rested on a madrona tree that grew on the bank along the water’s edge. It looked like it’d been on a week-long drunk the way it twisted and turned its burgundy trunk to find sun. Yeah, sometimes he felt that way, too, unable to find himself or the sun. Like a smoker craving his next cigarette, Rico picked up his cell phone and started to dial. He cut the phone off after the first ring. He wasn’t going to give in just yet. He’d made it four days. One phone call from him, and his entire family would descend upon him. He wouldn't have a moment's peace. Not to mention they expected him to pay for everything, and that well had almost ran dry. Rico put his head in his hands. The weight of the world, at least his small world, sat on his shoulders. Everyone looked to him to make things right. Except this time, he wasn't sure how to do that. Shit. Rico sighed. This was why he dreaded vacations. There was nothing to occupy his mind and too much time to think about his empty life, his financial issues, and his uncertain future. Yet, there was hope. An attractive time-occupier in the shape of a gorgeous female and her mind-reading horse had just tangoed into his life. Nothing like a good old-fashioned seduction to get the creative juices flowing again. Now he needed to map out a strategy. Seducing Mariah called for unique tactics. She didn’t fit the usual mold of the women he dated, when he dated. He liked them beautiful, easy, and lacking in the intelligence department. No way would Mariah be easy. She fit the beautiful requirement. Now, for the brains... Well, a woman who

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challenged his mind, as well as his body, might be a welcome change. Not since Carmen had he been interested in a woman with a brain. The dumb ones were easily placated with gifts and flowers. The smart ones demanded more than he was willing to give, but this time he’d make an exception. His body begged for a little female companionship. He’d denied himself pleasure for too long in favor of work, work, and more work. Funny, most people assumed he partied all night, every night. Wouldn’t they be surprised to learn that his personal life consisted of getting up in the morning and going to bed at night? Alone, he might add. That horse, Sueño, probably saw more action than he did. He probably had tons of little fillies chasing him around the pasture. Rico shook his head and chuckled. Just when he didn’t think things could get any lower in his life, he’d just sunk to an all-time low. He envied a frigging horse! Okay, so the horse had proven to be a useful ally. That pushing trick couldn’t have worked out better if he’d planned it himself. Little thrills of excitement vibrated through his body as he remembered the feel of her in his arms. She’d been so soft, pliable, and so female. He couldn’t deny the instant chemistry between them, not when his body still sizzled from the impact. Laughing, he imagined burn marks on his chest where she’d clung to him. Yet, it wasn’t just her body he wanted. In his old world, women with todie-for bodies had been a dime a dozen. There was something about her. Something indefinable. The way she mind-melded with that horse fascinated him, too. He needed to know more about...what did she call it? Sounded like massage. Oh, yeah, dressage. Maybe he’d surf the Internet and do a little research. The logical side of Rico researched everything, dissected it into little pieces, and put it back together in a creative way. It was that creative spirit in him that had suffered lately to the point of non-existence. Rico felt his old depression seep back in, but he dampened it down. He wouldn’t allow himself to fall back into that trap. He loathed his recent tendency to wallow in self-pity. He had better things to do. Like seduce his neighbor.

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Chapter 2 The Next Move Mariah ignored the growing stack of bills on the antique oak dining table. Next to them lay Rodrigo’s sunglasses. Skirting around them, she gave the table as wide a berth as she would a rattlesnake sunning itself on a rock. Long ago she’d perfected the Scarlett O’Hara method of handling problems: she’d think about it tomorrow. Or never. Between the mounting expenses on this old horse farm and her penchant for shopping, money never stayed in her bank account long. Even when she'd worked in Seattle as an interior designer for a prestigious firm, she spent as much as she made. She acknowledged it was a problem, but she'd always been this way, and frankly, she didn't know how to be any other way. She loved nice things. Unfortunately, she had Armani taste on a Wal-Mart budget. There was just never enough money. There had to better things to think about. Like Rodrigo Perez, for instance. Her thoughts hadn’t strayed far from him all day. She half-regretted not accepting his invitation. Someday she’d learn to be bold and less uptight about stuff like that. Someday. He seemed safe enough, though a little too self-assured and cocky for her taste. Her intuition warned her not to fall into the trap of judging that book by its cover. Something didn’t jive with him. Despite his brashness, he seemed sad and lost. The man hid some secrets behind his devil-may-care smile, espresso eyes, and shabby clothes. He dressed like he didn’t have a penny to his name, yet none of it added up. The more she tried to talk herself out of being interested in him, the more interested she became. She couldn’t recall ever being this attracted to a man upon first meeting him.

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A man like him could be deadly to a vulnerable woman’s heart. Here she was, barely thirty and a hopeless case when it came to sex and romance. From the Warren Disaster to Blind-Date Mike, she attracted the wrong men without exception. Maybe there weren’t any right men. Maybe every one of them had their brains buried down south of their bellybuttons. Maybe some did a better job of concealing that fact than others. Maybe she was just a coward. Or maybe she should just stick with horses and shopping. Those stupid sunglasses called to her. They needed to be returned, but she didn’t want to subject her heart to Mr. Scruffy. She’d sneak over to the Delgado’s and leave the sunglasses where he’d find them. Grabbing them, she left her comfortable old craftsman style farmhouse. While the original covered porch extended across the front of the house, the backside had been remodeled years ago. A mish mash of large windows, French doors, decks, and a patio took advantage of the view. The stairs down to the water had rotted so she carefully made her way down the rocky bank. Her aunt’s property and the Delgado property shared the same cove. The lights from the Delgado house were barely visible through the trees. Mariah pictured Rodrigo sitting on the deck sipping a margarita. She skirted the shoreline and picked her way through the darkness. Stumbling a few times, she lectured herself for not bringing a flashlight. Craning her neck, she tried to get a better view of the house tucked back in the cove. The lights from the estate reflected off the water and illuminated her path. She hesitated. What was she doing? One minute she'd told him to get lost and now she was spying on him. Well, he’d spied on her, so one good turn deserved another. Moving closer, she positioned herself in the best spot to look in the two-story windows. She didn’t see anyone inside. She crept to the edge of the lawn, pausing to listen for sounds in the night. Not even frogs or crickets could be heard. She tiptoed across the dew-dampened grass. Her sandals slapped on the ground, making too much noise. She hesitated. This was stupid. A wise girl would sneak back home. A smart girl wouldn’t have come here in the first place. What did she plan to do if she found him at home? “Looking for someone?”

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Mariah jumped, and a subdued scream escaped from her throat, as she whirled around. Rodrigo stood on the dock about twenty feet away. He’d caught her red-handed and red-faced. Now who was the stalker? “You scared me,” she blurted out. “That’s the second time today. I’m a scary guy.” He chuckled and shoved his hands in the pockets of his jeans. “The second time?” She pointed an accusing finger at him. “Ah ha! So you admit it. You’re the troll!” “I’m the what?” “The troll in the woods who scared my horse.” “I will never admit to it. You know, most people knock on the front door instead of lurking in the shadows.” Amusement peppered his voice and glinted in his mocha eyes. “I...I’m...sorry...I...” Mortified, Mariah stared at the ground. She scooted away from the light, hoping he couldn’t see her face very well. She’d screwed up big time. Just like that, he’s gotten the upper hand. No doubt he’d take that inch and make it into a mile. “Did you change your mind about going out with me?” He glanced at his watch. “It’s a little late for dinner now, but I am still hungry.” His self-satisfied smirk irritated her but not as much as the sticky situation she’d put herself in. “I...I ate dinner,” she stammered. “So did I. Did you think I was referring to food?” Totally flustered, she shut her mouth before she uttered any more words of wisdom. He crooked his little finger at her. “Come here, Mariah. I can barely see you.” That’s the idea. “I thought I’d sit on the end of the dock for a while. Enjoy the evening. Why don’t you join me?” He switched tactics from teasing to persuading. “I should be going.” She didn’t move—not one muscle. “Why? You must have come here for a reason. Or were you doing research to see if I slept in the nude?” Or alone? “No,” she denied vehemently. “No, of course not.” She heard his chuckle in the darkness.

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“You're insufferable,” She wanted to be really pissed at him but those eyes made it a difficult task. “Sorry. Something about you brings it out in me.” He actually did look contrite. “I brought your sunglasses back.” She held them out to him, but he made no move to take them. “Mariah.” His soft coaxing voice vaporized the last of her resistance. “Come here.” Drawn into his web, she walked toward him. He waited for her. Once she stood beside him, he took the sunglasses from her hand and tucked them in his pocket. Then he rested his hand on the small of her back and guided her to the end of the dock. Rodrigo sat down on the edge and swung his bare feet back and forth in the water, making ripples. He smiled up at her. The small lights on the dock bathed his face in a soft glow, accenting his chiseled jaw and perfectly sculpted cheekbones. A small shiver thrummed through her body. She frowned. He patted the dock beside him. “Sit down. Keep me company for a while. I’ll try to behave myself.” She hesitated. He wanted her to sit down next to him and trust him to behave? Heck, she wasn't sure if she trusted herself to behave with this man. Yet she owed him an apology for being less than civil earlier in the day. With a resigned sigh, Mariah sat beside him. Removing her sandals, she, too, dangled her feet in the water. He reached behind his back into the darkness and produced a bottle of red wine and a glass. Without asking, he poured her a glass and handed it to her. “Thank you, but that’s your glass.” “If you won’t think I’m completely uncouth, I’ll just drink out of the bottle.” “That’s okay with me.” Her ex-fiancé, Warren never would have done such a thing, but this guy wasn’t Warren. Thank God. He took a swig, never taking his dark eyes off her face. She squirmed under his probing gaze. After taking a sip of her wine, she concentrated on the contents of her glass. It tasted good and warm. Just like he would. Oh my God. Like she’d know anything about that. What was wrong with her?

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Her mind just didn’t work that way. At least, it never had with other men. It sure dived into the gutter where Mr. Scruffy was concerned. She shifted her position and crossed her legs. “You clean up well.” He did a slow appraisal of her. He sniffed. “You smell a hell of a lot better, too. What is that scent?” She hesitated. “Uh...Erotic Passion.” He grinned from ear to ear. “Cool. Very sexy.” She ignored his remark. “Uh, Rodrigo?” “Hmmm?” “I’m sorry I was a little abrupt earlier. Men haven’t been at the top of my list lately. I took it out on you.” “That’s okay. I came on a little strong. I deserved it.” “I’m sorry, too, that I was...” “Stalking me?” His sexy mouth quirked in delight at her discomfort. “No, that wasn’t it at all. I should have gone around to the front. I wanted to check first to see if you were home.” “Afraid you might interrupt something?” “Maybe. I guess.” She looked down at her hands. This guy sent her senses into overload. One foot separated them, yet the way her body reacted he might as well be on top of her. She warned herself not to go there, but she felt that all too familiar flush creep across her face again. Why hadn’t she stayed in her comfortable house and away from this hazardous-to-her-heart man? “So why aren’t men at the top of your list?” His eyes sought hers. He leaned back against the dock and propped himself up with his elbows, giving her a good view of his long, lean body. She fought the urge to tell him the truth, but the urge won. “I had a blind date last night. After the guy finished his expensive meal and several shots of fifteen-year-old Scotch, he went to the restroom. He must have disappeared into a black hole or flushed himself down the toilet because he never returned.” Blind-date Mike’s abrupt exit hadn’t bothered her nearly as much as the tab he’d stiffed her with. Her already lean checkbook now bordered on anorexic, but Rodrigo didn’t need to know that. Rodrigo stared at her as if he couldn’t fathom a man doing such a thing. Obviously, it’d never occurred to him. “Why would he do that to a nice woman like you?”

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“Because I told him I wouldn’t go home with him.” Mariah traced patterns in the water with her toes. “What an ass. We aren’t all like that, Mariah.” She shook her head, not buying his admission. Oh, but you are, Rodrigo. You just have a smoother approach than most. He raised himself back to a sitting position and slid next to her until their shoulders touched. She leaned away from him, trying to be inconspicuous. He leaned closer. The skin on her shoulder smoldered from the casual contact. “What brings you to my island, Rodrigo?” She attempted to distract him. It worked. He stiffened and moved away. “My family.” He concentrated on the water, clearly uncomfortable. “Your family?” “I needed a vacation. Away from them. The Delgado's offered this place. They thought I could do some healing here.” He snorted and rolled his eyes. She was quiet for a moment. “You can. Many people come here for that reason. The Native Americans and Canadians considered this place holy, spiritual. They believed the islands, especially Orcas, had mystical healing powers.” “And you? Are you here for that reason?” He took another swig from the wine bottle and regarded her closely. She shrugged, not willing to give away anymore than she already had. “I inherited the farm from my aunt a year ago. It’s not a working farm anymore, just a few horses, that’s all. My aunt used to breed Andalusians here. Sueño was my high school graduation present from her.” “Sueño is a beautiful stallion,” Rodrigo stated in an obvious attempt to impress her with his knowledge of horses. “Sueño is a gelding, not a stallion.” Mariah managed to hide her amusement. “Oh.” Rodrigo’s face fell. “I thought all male horses were stallions. What’s the difference?” Mariah stared open-mouthed at him. “You don’t know?” “How should I know? I’m not a horse person. I’m a city boy.” Mariah allowed a slow, wicked smile to spread across her face. “Rodrigo, to be gelded is every man’s nightmare.”

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“You mean...?” Rodrigo instinctively pressed his legs tightly together. “He doesn’t have any...?” “That’s right.” “Oh, shit.” Mariah threw back her head and roared with laughter. At first Rodrigo looked annoyed, then he joined in. The man could take a joke. “You are a city boy.” “And proud of it. So, you’ve been here a year?” “I have nothing to go back to in Seattle. The firm I worked for cut back, and as the newest employee, I was laid off.” “You’re making the farm your home?” “I’m not sure what to do about it, not yet, anyway. There are problems. I can’t bear to sell it. It’s been in my family for over a hundred years. Plus, a camp for under-privileged kids leases one corner of the property. It'd probably be closed down if I sold it. Unfortunately, the taxes on all that waterfront and acreage come close to equaling a small country’s national debt.” “I can imagine. What kind of work do you do?” “I’m an interior designer. I’ve been doing design jobs here on the island, but there’s not a lot of business. When the economy is bad, that’s the first thing people cut. I did the Delgado’s house.” “Oh, yeah, I think you mentioned that. You did a wonderful job.” She could tell he was impressed. “Thank you.” Darn, she was blushing again. “Where’d you work in Seattle?” “I worked for large firm, very prestigious. I designed interiors for the very wealthy–and very demanding. It was a high stress job with long hours. I loved it, but it consumed me. My riding suffered, so did my personal relationships.” She hesitated. She didn’t want to get into a discussion with him about her failed engagement to Warren. “I started there fresh out of college and was working my way up when I lost my job.” “I have that problem, too, working to the point where I don’t have a personal life.” “Are you on vacation for an entire month by yourself? I mean is there someone else joining you?” Mariah regretted the words the minute she said them, but she had to know. Did he have a wife or girlfriend?

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“All by myself.” He frowned and stared at the water lapping at his feet. “That’s odd for me. Usually, I never get much time alone to do what I want. Now that I have it, I don’t know what to do with it. I’m at loose ends.” He gave her a crooked smile. “And no, I don’t have anyone right now if that’s what you’re asking.” Mortified, Mariah stammered, “I wasn’t asking. It’s none of my business.” “Sure it is. I asked you out, so it is your business. And you? Do you live alone in that big farmhouse?” “Uh huh. Just me.” She was more alone than he knew. She swallowed and studied the stars in the sky. A slight breeze cooled her skin and rustled the tree branches. “When the weather is like this, there isn’t a prettier place on earth.” Rodrigo looked around, as if seeing everything for the first time but said nothing. He took her hand and squeezed it. The evening flew by as Mariah talked about her riding and her connection with horses. Rodrigo seemed genuinely interested. They consumed the bottle of wine, and the conversation flowed, easy and relaxed. Yet, as comfortable as it was, he sidestepped answering personal questions with the expertise of a seasoned politician. He behaved like a perfect gentleman. He didn’t touch her or come on to her. Maybe he’d lost interest in her as anything but a friend. Well, that would be her luck, considering she found him very attractive. Every time she looked in his eyes, she felt these little jolts of excitement. He made her feel like melted butter on warm bread. She wanted to be soaked up by his heat. Those thoughts were dangerous. Very dangerous. She’d be safer grappling with rabid shoppers during Nordstrom’s sale of the year. Well after midnight Mariah regretfully climbed to her feet. “I really have to go, Rodrigo. It’s been nice talking to you.” “Let me walk you home, bella. It’s dark. You shouldn’t be out here alone.” No, no, no, screamed the good girl inside. “That would be nice,” the bad girl she didn’t know existed said out loud and batted her eyelashes at him. His grin grew wider, as if anticipating she didn’t know what. They walked together down the beach, picking their way through the darkness. Sometimes, their bodies bumped into each other causing Mariah

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to giggle nervously. What if he wanted to kiss her? She couldn’t kiss him. She was a lousy kisser. Horrible. But she wanted him to kiss her. A big red hot fiery kiss on the lips. Maybe even some tongue? Maybe even.... His voice interrupted her thoughts as they neared her house. “Mariah, what happened to your stairs?” “They’re rotted, and I’m worthless as a carpenter. I just use that trail through the rocks up the bank.” Rodrigo reached for her hand and helped her up the steep bank onto the lawn. He stopped, turned to face her, and regarded her with an unreadable expression. Her heart sashayed right up next to him, and her body followed. She leaned into him, and he met her halfway. As their bodies touched, the electricity between them practically crackled. He tightened his grip on her hand. Long fingers wrapped around her smaller ones, encasing them in his gentle strength. His other hand rested on her waist. Those mocha eyes beckoned to her, tempted her. She succumbed and slid into their depths. The oxygen was forced from her lungs. Giant butterflies pummeled her stomach. Her reckless heart pounded like a conga drum. Every cell in her body somersaulted like a hoard of out-of-control bungee jumpers. Mariah tore her eyes away from his to preserve what was left of her sanity. She stepped away, breaking the contact with his body. Blinking furiously, she dared to glance at him again. All she saw this time was a handsome man with a bad haircut and lousy taste in clothes. “You okay?” His voice sounded odd. Okay? Hadn’t he felt it? How could she have just taken that wild ride alone? She studied him more closely. He looked a little disconcerted, but he hid it well. He let go of her hand. “I’ll be by tomorrow morning to fix those steps for you.” “You will?” “Sure. I’m pretty handy with a hammer.” “You really don’t need to do that.” “I want to. It’ll be good for me to do some physical labor.” “I can’t afford to pay you.” He grinned, as if she’d just said the magic words. “It’s not money I’m after.” He winked at her. “Adios, amor.”

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“Goodnight,” she whispered long after he'd disappeared from sight. **** Rico threw a bunch of tools in the back of Max’s old pickup truck along with several boards of varying sizes. He’d told her the truth about being handy. As the only man around the house during his teenage years, it fell on his shoulders to repair almost anything that broke. He looked forward to doing something with his hands. Of course, he could think of better places for his hands than on wood and nails. Somehow, he’d resisted kissing her last night. A woman like her needed to want him as much or more than he wanted her. Unfortunately, while he waited for her to heat up, his own cooling system steamed and boiled. He’d never forget the way she looked up at him and tilted her head. Then she parted those luscious red lips of hers in an invitation to be kissed. He’d held back his stampeding hormones with superhuman force, giving a new definition to iron man. He had to wait. Have patience. Damn good things came to those who waited. In no time, she’d be begging him to do more than kiss her. Rico parked in her driveway and waved at her as she rode Sueño in the arena. She waved back. Gathering his stuff together, he carried it to the edge of the lawn and went to work. She joined him a few hours later with some deli sandwiches she’d bought down the road in Deer Harbor. He pounded his last nail in the repaired stairs and sank to the lawn beside her. “Thanks.” Rico took the sandwich she offered as his stomach growled its approval. “I’m starved.” He wolfed down his sandwich and half of hers then looked for more. “How can you eat like that not be as big as a house?” “Nervous energy, I guess. I work out, too.” He caught her giving his body a shy, yet appreciative, once-over. So she did notice. “I’ve been wondering, Rodrigo, why did you exile yourself to these islands?” A shadow of a smile played at her lips. “Because of my life,” he said without thinking. “And what is your life like?” Looking down at her hand on his arm, she quickly removed it.

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“Huh? Oh. It’s forty-eight hours packed into a twenty-four-hour day and that doesn’t include time for sleeping. In fact, this is my first real vacation in about eight years.” “That’s a long time. What do you do?” “I’m in the international trade business.” “That must be high-stress and demanding, but exciting.” “Yeah, it is.” Or was, once upon a time. “Do you import or export merchandise?” “A little of both.” His evasive answers seemed to frustrate her. Even so, her next question caught him off-guard. “Did you come to Orcas to heal?” He frowned. Personal questions made him uneasy. He didn’t want to think about all the reasons he'd banished himself to this island. “Mariah, I’m here to escape my life and forget about stuff for a while. I’d rather not talk about it. I just want to enjoy this time together without my past influencing what happens between us. Can you accept that?” She looked puzzled. “I guess so. I’m not sure what you mean, but okay.” An uncomfortable silence stretched between them. He tried to think of something to say to ease the tension, but she beat him to it. “You must speak fluent Spanish?” He laughed. “Sí, better than I speak English. Do you speak Spanish?” “No, just a little. After the basics, I took every art class I could. Oh, yeah, there was a futile attempt to learn Italian. I don’t think being bilingual is in the cards for me.” She worked that lower lip of hers with her teeth again. God, that turned him on. “You called me a bella.” “Sí, it means beautiful.” “I know what it means. I’m not, you know.” “Not what?” “Beautiful.” She fidgeted with her napkin and stole a look at him through lowered lashes. He stared at her in silence. If she was any other woman, he’d swear she was fishing for compliments. Not her. She didn’t know she was beautiful. He didn’t understand how that could be possible, but it was. Her refreshing

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innocence would be his undoing. It turned him on more than any blatant seduction ever had. “Mariah, I think you are beautiful.” So would every other male on the planet with eyesight. She blushed a very attractive deep rose color. “Thank you.” Focusing on the ground, she plucked blades of grass and wrapped them around a slender, even her fingers were sexy. Abruptly, she stood and tested the stairs he’d repaired, walking down and then back up. Rico waited for her on the top step. “Rodrigo, thanks for fixing those stairs. I don’t know how I can repay you....” “Go out with me tonight. Please.” “I’d love to, but I can’t. I’m meeting my friends at a bar in Eastsound for drinks. We planned this over a week ago. How about a rain check?” She graced him with a radiant smile. Her smile warmed his heart, made him feel good about himself. She felt familiar to him, like an old friend, someone he’d known before and always. He planned on knowing her again, every inch of her. That feeling, coupled with his loneliness, drove him to pursue her in ways he’d never bothered to pursue a woman. She was going to be his little piece of heaven on this island known for its magic. He didn’t know how he knew that, but he felt it deep in his bones.

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Chapter 3 La Cantina Rico leaned one elbow on the counter and nursed his beer. The place was packed with locals dressed in jeans and t-shirts and tourists in garish colors and loafers. Glasses clinked together as a rotund waitress balanced a tray of drinks and sidestepped near disaster as someone backed into her path. He turned sideways on the bar stool and watched Mariah at a table across the room. She turned to talk at one of her friends, giving him a good view of her profile. Dios, she was stunning with that little upturned nose and high delicate cheekbones. Her hair shone like polished mahogany, cascading over her shoulders and down her back. He'd be having fantasies tonight about that luxurious mane draped across his bare chest. And those eyes, those meadow-green eyes—he wanted to lie down naked in that meadow and let his skin absorb her warmth. And that mouth. It tempted and tormented a man to kiss it thoroughly or engage it in a few other lascivious activities fabricated by his sex-starved mind. Her flowered sundress stopped at mid-thigh to give him a good view of her delectable legs. He visualized those long legs of hers wrapped around his waist, urging him to completion. The dress dipped modestly low in front and temptingly low in back. He suspected it sported a designer label judging by the quality. He bet it clung to her cute little bottom when she stood up. Stand up for me, baby. Her angel’s face and vixen’s body made for one attractive package. It'd been a long time since a woman had him so hot and horny. It felt good, really good. Apathy, even toward sex, had dominated his personal life in the past couple years. He’d focused on his work to the exclusion of everything else, making his import business the best in the Los Angeles area.

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Unfortunately, his family spent his money as fast as he could make it. Putting a lid on that depressing thought, he centered his attention on her. When he'd walked into the bar a few minutes ago, he couldn’t believe his good luck. Of course, finding her wasn’t completely a matter of chance. There were only a few bars in the small town of Eastsound. Plus, the pickup truck parked at her house earlier today appeared to be the same one parked down the block from this restaurant. She didn’t have a clue that he sat several feet from her, but she would soon. A guy couldn’t hurry a woman like that. In a moment, Phase One of his carefully planned seduction would commence, and God help them both. Hell, he hadn’t had this much fun in years. **** Mariah threw back her head and laughed. She took another sip of her sangria and pretended to listen to Bob tell a humorous story about some tourists he’d taken out in his charter boat last week. The five friends met a couple times a month in the small bar in the island’s only Mexican restaurant. The place smelled like stale beer and cigarettes. The décor consisted of tacky sombreros and sarapes in garish colors stapled to a fake stucco wall. Scratchy speakers played what sounded like Mexican polka music. Mariah’s feet stuck to the brown tile floor and her arms stuck to the table. She loved the place. Besides, on the island a girl didn’t have too many choices when it came to drinking establishments. Mariah tried to concentrate on the conversation being volleyed around the table, but her mind kept drifting to the Latin hunk with the mocha eyes. She sighed as she pulled herself back to reality one more time. What was that they were saying? She hadn’t caught a word of it. Hopefully, no one would ask her a question. As always, she was the odd person in a group of couples. Someday, she’d find some poor guy to drag along if she had to pay him just so they wouldn’t pity her for being alone or try to find her a man. She’d been halftempted to invite Rodrigo to join her tonight. She could just imagine the looks on her friends’ faces if she showed up with her sexy neighbor in tow.

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Mariah plucked a choice nacho chip dripping with cheese from the plate and popped it into her mouth. Bob had a tendency to go on and on. She stifled a yawn and finished off her sangria, doing her best to look interested. “Señorita?” The waiter bent down low to be heard over the din in the bar. “Yes?” Mariah watched as the waiter placed another glass of sangria in front of her. “Excuse me, I didn’t order this,” she said in confusion. “Sí, it is compliments of the man sitting at the bar.” The harried waiter didn’t wait for a response as he moved to the next table. Mariah turned to scan the bar. Rodrigo was perched on a tall barstool. His long legs were wrapped around the stool and the heels of his scuffed boots were hooked on the footrest. He’d abandoned his T-shirt in favor of a well-worn, white cotton shirt with short sleeves. He wore it open at the throat and unbuttoned several buttons to reveal his tanned chest and crisp, dark chest hair. His black jeans fit him like a second skin. To her abject horror, a Yankees baseball cap covered his unruly hair. Didn’t the man realize he was deep in Mariners’ territory and Yankee might as well be a four-letter word? Their eyes connected, causing a small internal tremor in her body that topped the Rodrigo scale at about 7.0. She smiled at her stupid pun and then realized he interpreted her smile as an invitation. He raised his index finger to his temple in a mock salute. With a mixture of dread and anticipation, she watched as he tossed cash on the counter to pay for his drinks. He and his beer headed for her table. Mariah snapped her head forward and focused on her friends. Maybe if she ignored him, he’d keep walking. She wasn’t prepared for this. The last thing she wanted was for her friends to meet him. They’d read more into it than there was and tease her without mercy. Not to mention the embarrassing things they’d say to him given half the chance. He’d find out she rarely dated, and she'd look desperate for male attention. She didn’t want Rodrigo to think that of her, even if it was true. Without turning around, she felt his presence behind her. His mouth grazed the hair by her ear. She should have known the brash man wasn’t that easily discouraged. “So,” he whispered in his deep, sexy voice, “fate seems to find ways to bring us together.”

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“Something tells me that fate had nothing to do with it.” She looked over her shoulder at him. He was so close, his lips brushed her cheek. Embarrassed by his boldness, she leaned away from him. He leaned closer. He grinned, his olive complexion contrasted by perfect white teeth. “Did you miss me?” She ignored his remark. “Hello, Rodrigo.” Her friends grew silent. Four pairs of eyes zeroed in on the two of them. Rodrigo didn’t have a shy bone in his body. He smiled engagingly and introduced himself. Shaking hands with the men, he graced the women with his irresistible presence. Nancy and Linda melted on the spot, adding two more to his growing list of admirers, or so it seemed. “Are you a friend of Mariah’s?” Nancy asked with a quick glance in Mariah’s direction. Mariah frowned. If her friend didn't quit slobbering soon, there'd be a puddle on the table. “We’re neighbors. I’m staying at Max Delgado’s place for a month. Mariah and I are acquainted.” Four pairs of eyebrows crept up to their hairlines. “Really? Join us,” Carl suggested, ever the helpful, friendly guy. Mariah shot daggers at both men. Rodrigo didn’t wait for a second invitation. He stole a chair from an adjacent table. Her traitorous friends shifted to make room for him next to her. She realized with a sinking heart that she couldn’t depend on them to rescue her. Instead, they threw her to the wolf. That scruffy, Latin wolf happily slid his chair next to hers until their thighs touched. As if that wasn’t enough, he took her hand and kissed each finger with care then turned it over to kiss her palm. Nancy gasped and dropped her fork. Linda missed her mouth, and wine dribbled down her chin, unnoticed. “Bella, it’s been too long. About four hours?” He looked at each of her friends to gauge their reactions, appearing to be insufferably pleased with himself. Mariah considered crawling under the table. She’d never hear the end of this. Her face burned with a heat caused by more than embarrassment. No matter how infuriating this man could be, her body seemed to have the hots for him. Using his charisma and innate charm, Rodrigo had her friends eating out of his hand in five minutes. He engaged them in conversation about the

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islands and their lives yet gave very little of himself away. He deftly dodged probing questions about his personal and professional life with an ease born of experience. His polished demeanor seemed inconsistent with his unkempt appearance. Who was this man with the smoothness of a politician, face of a movie star, and clothes of a bum? **** Rico cringed as some snot-nosed kid, barely old enough to be in a bar, butchered one of his biggest hits. Then to add insult to injury, the kid attempted to imitate some of Rico’s signature dance moves. Mariah laughed at Rico’s pained expression. She seemed to be enjoying his aversion to karaoke, probably her form of petty revenge for his earlier teasing. She had no idea how painfully personal this really was. “He’s pretty bad, isn’t he?” Rico nodded, staring at the kid with irritation. “He’s not Rico Sanchez by a long shot.” Rico snapped his head around so fast, she jumped. He studied her closely. His dark eyes narrowed. She stared back at him, totally guileless. He breathed a sign of relief. It had been an innocent remark. “No. No, he’s not,” he agreed, still distracted by the racket that barely qualified as singing. “Whatever happened to that guy?” Carl commented. “He was everywhere one day then gone the next,” Nancy added. “Drugs. What else?” Bob rolled his eyes. “Too much money, not enough sense.” “Yeah, I heard something about that. In and out of rehab. Got to be so difficult to work with that his record company let him go.” “Yeah, but they stayed with him until they couldn't milk any more money out of him.” “That's what happens in that business. Everybody loves you when you're on top. They don't remember your name when you're on the bottom.” Rico squirmed and pretended they weren’t dissecting his life. God knows, it’d been dissected enough in the last four years. He turned in his

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chair and faked interest in the singer. Unfortunately, his dog had a better voice. “Typical entertainer. They're all flakes. Didn't he end up in jail?” Nancy countered and flipped a nacho chip at Bob who was making faces at the kid on the mike. “He only stayed in a few days.” Carl yawned. “Well, he was talented.” Mariah insisted. “What a waste.” “His brother sold him out on national TV. Remember that? His interview had the press peeing all over themselves like a litter of excited Cocker Spaniel puppies. He exposed all the dirt on his brother's drug abuses and excesses.” Bob caught the chip and tossed it in his mouth. Rico sighed. Oh, yeah, those same puppies had lifted their legs all over him too. Even after four years, the whole fiasco made his stomach churn, especially his brother’s part in it. “Well, I get tired of celebrities that think they're entitled.” Mariah shook her head in disgust. Rico took a deep breath, torn between keeping his mouth shut and defending himself. Shutting his mouth won—to a point. Rico looked at Mariah. “Do you really think he felt that way?” “He got out of it. I have no respect for people like that. They'll tell you anything to get what they want. You can't trust them.” She spoke like a woman who had suffered at the hands of a dishonest man. So what was he? He’d lied to her about his identity and a pretty big lie. Now he was in too deep with no way out. “I think what’s in his heart is what matters.” Mariah shrugged. “I suppose that’s true.” She focused her attention on the karaoke singer. “You have to give him credit for having the guts to sing in front of this crowd.” She winced as the dreadful crooner hit an earsplitting note. Rico plugged his ears. The kid assaulted his hearing more than two tom cats fighting over a p... uh...female cat. “Did you think he was hot?” He hated himself for asking the question. Mariah’s perfectly shaped eyebrows climbed up her forehead. “Him?” She looked at the pimple-faced kid. “No, Rico Sanchez.”

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“Oh, a woman would have to be dead or in a coma to not think he was hot.” She tossed him a wickedly teasing smile. “That hot, huh?” “Uh huh.” She nodded solemnly, though her emerald eyes twinkled. “Do you think I’m hot?” He baited her. His eyes searched hers. Her answer mattered to him more than he cared to admit. “Am I dead or in a coma?” She countered with a sassy smile. “Ay yi yi.” He held up his hands in mock surrender, conceding that round. Her boldness surprised him. Maybe the two sangrias or the chaotic atmosphere gave her courage. Regardless, he might need to rethink his strategy. This woman might prove to be more of a challenge than he'd anticipated. **** The expression on his face was priceless. Mariah applauded herself. She'd gotten one up on this overly brash man. She guessed that didn’t happen often to him. By midnight, her ears hurt from the steady assault on her senses. She’d rather listen to a pack of inebriated coyotes than these American Idol rejects. Besides, Rodrigo was getting too cozy and too confident. With a possessive arm wrapped around her—as if he had the right—and a smug smile, he treated her like his private property. The man had staked his claim, and his menacing expression challenged any man who looked her way. Mariah didn't like it. Not at all. She was no man's personal property, least of all his. Rodrigo needed to learn that lesson, the sooner the better. The time had come to execute a graceful escape. Mariah gathered her purse, extracted herself from Rodrigo, and rose from the table. Rodrigo stood, too, and waited patiently as she told her friends goodbye. Their knowing expressions aggravated her. The man was NOT, repeat NOT, going home with her, regardless of their suspicions. “I’ll call you tomorrow, Rye.” Linda’s voice followed her out the door. “But don’t worry, I won’t call too early and disturb your sleep.” Mariah didn’t need to look back to know they were laughing at her. Rodrigo followed her outside, slipping an arm around her waist as they

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walked along the street. She tried to pull away, but he held on tighter with a firm, but gentle, grip. Uncomfortable, pissed, and a little turned on, she marched along faster. She refused to acknowledge the man fastened to her hip. His unabashed pursuit flattered her, while his arrogant confidence irritated her. “This is my car,” she pointed out, expecting him to let go of her. Instead he turned her to face him and placed both hands on her waist. A woman knows certain things, and she knew she was in deep do-do. He’d stared at her lips several times during the night. Shivers ran down her spine as she tried to imagine what he imagined. This stubborn, insistent man had worn her down little by little as warnings from her rational side went unheeded. She needed to get some distance and gather her wits about her. His probing eyes scanned hers for something. Permission? Approval? Rejection? She felt an unfamiliar, fluttering sensation in her stomach. Mere inches separated them. His lips curved in satisfaction as she unconsciously leaned toward him. In some unexplainable way, she felt him deep inside her soul. His fingers rubbed small circles around her hip bones. His touch scorched her skin, heating her very core. Mariah made a feeble attempt to squirm away. Instead, she proved to herself how powerless she was to stop him. Not that she really wanted to stop him. “Mariah,” he murmured, his accent husky and thick with a need that frightened and exhilarated her. He even rolled the ‘r’ in her name. If that didn’t do a girl in, nothing would. Shouldn’t it be forbidden for a man to have that many weapons of seduction in his sexual arsenal? It was bad enough the guy was gorgeous and charming but an accent, too? Shouldn’t he be required to spread the wealth around a little bit to those men less fortunate? Which pretty much comprised every other man on earth. He pulled her gently against him, as her resistance dissolved into the night air. His strong, muscular arms slid around her waist, holding with a gentleness in direct contrast to the intensity in his gaze. Despite her height, he was taller. Maybe 6’2” or 6’3”? Having to look up was a luxury she seldom experienced with men. The proof of his need pressed lightly against her stomach. She shifted her gaze from his disturbing eyes and studied his stubbled face.

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He tucked her hair behind one ear and used his fingertips to stroke her cheek. Drawn back to those eyes, her lips parted slightly of their own volition. His dark eyes glittered with amusement or lust. She wasn’t sure which. His mouth moved closer. Her eyes fluttered shut as she anticipated the first touch of his lips on hers. Holding her breath, she felt his warm, moist lips graze her cheek, then linger briefly on her mouth with the lightest touch. Then he was gone. His warmth, his vitality, his energy were all gone. His hands around her waist were gone. The heat of his body was gone, leaving a big gap he’d momentarily filled. Mariah blinked a few times. He stood a few feet from her, a smug smile spread across his face. She took a deep breath and came to the conclusion she’d been played like a cheap violin. The self-satisfied jerk had teased her then left her without any satisfaction. Fumbling in her purse, she dug for her keys. He took them from her unsteady hand, unlocked the car door and opened it. Shaken to her toes by their near kiss, Mariah slid behind the wheel. He stood in the open doorway, preventing her from closing it. “Tomorrow night? What time can I pick you up for dinner?” “I...I...” “I promise I’ll finish what I started.” One corner of his sexy mouth quirked, revealing a bit of a Latin devil. “What time?” “Eight.” Like a fly caught in a spider web, she surrendered to her fate. Satisfied, he stepped back and shut the car door. Mariah started the engine then experienced a sudden inspiration. She rolled down the window and leaned out. Crooking her little finger, she beckoned him to come closer. Intrigued, he bent down. She touched his lower lip with a glossy scarlet fingernail. “Rodrigo,” she purred, “two more things.” “Sure, anything.” His eyes were bright with anticipation. “I’ll meet you in the bar at Rosario.” When he started to argue, she interrupted. “Take it or leave it.” Irritation like a summer storm flashed across his face, but he nodded. “And this,” she said with distaste, “has to go.” In one smooth motion, she snatched the Yankees cap from his head, threw it in the passenger seat,

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rolled up the window, and sped off. Rodrigo’s stunned expression was reflected in her rearview mirror. Laughter bubbled inside her. The last laugh was hers. This time. **** The next morning, Mariah slipped into a plastic lawn chair on Eva's deck. Her friend sipped tea, read her ever-present tarot cards and ignored her guest. Sighing, Mariah waited. You couldn’t hurry Eva. She did everything in her own time and her own way. Another beautiful day presented itself with blue skies and a warm sun. Water rippled below them in Cascade Bay. Across the bay stood the stately Moran mansion, built almost a century ago. The mansion and surrounding estate, known as Rosario, had been a resort for decades. Tonight, she’d dine at the mansion with Rodrigo. Until then, thoughts of him spiced up her daydreams and dominated her worries. Taking a calming breath, she studied Eva. The woman claimed to be from gypsy and Native American descent. She insisted her given name was Evening Dawn. Her flamboyant style and exotic appearance supplemented her story. Mariah suspected her sable hair and blue eyes were compliments of synthetics rather than genetics. Her friend lived by two creeds: the more makeup, the better; and a woman can never wear too much jewelry. She danced to her own fabricated drummer. Rumors circulated among the island locals regarding her previous life as a CEO for a successful computer software firm in Seattle. Eva vehemently denied any past involvement with the corporate world. Mariah suspected the CEO rumor was the one actual fact in Eva’s past. Eva looked up, and studied Mariah in silence for quite some time before speaking. “You’ve met a man, a sexy Latin man.” Mariah hated it when Eva took on that ‘I see all’ persona, but she kept her mouth shut. “You’ve been talking to Nancy or Linda.” Eva bristled at Mariah’s lack of faith in her clairvoyant abilities. “He’s not just any man. Is he?” “No, he’s not. He’s different.”

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“Yes, he is.” Eva steepled her fingers and looked beyond Mariah, as if seeing something no one else could see. Mariah stifled the urge to roll her eyes. She admired her friend’s acting ability. Eva played the psychic part well. At times, Mariah almost believed her. “How do you know?” Mariah failed to conceal the skepticism in her voice. “I know.” Eva spoke with calm assurance. “As surely as I know Warren wasn’t right for you. He destroyed your creativity. He wanted to possess you, control you. He didn’t want you to grow. He would have smothered you.” “And this man?” Mariah played along. Once you waded through the mystical garbage, the woman offered good insights. Eva considered the question for a long time. “People come into our lives when we are most ready to learn what they have to teach us. This man has the power to fulfill your dreams. He also has the power to hurt you more deeply than anyone in your life. He won’t do it on purpose. His intentions are good, but he isn’t capable of giving you everything you need at this time.” “I think he’s dangerous. To me.” “He can be to your heart. We all have choices, Mariah. There is one person on this earth that you were meant to be with. This person has the power to damage you more than anyone else. He also has the power to love you more than anyone else. He will make his choices, and you will make yours. That is the part that I cannot predict.” Mariah smiled. She was letting her friend’s mystic BS affect her too deeply. Besides, she recalled a similar conversation regarding the recently departed, one-date Mike. “I just met him. We’re going to dinner tonight. That’s hardly enough time to declare our undying love for each other.” “Think what you want, Rye. Your heart knows the truth of what I’m saying.” “He does consume a lot of my thoughts, which is annoying.” “Did you sleep with him? “No, of course not.” Mariah bristled, feeling as prickly as a cactus on a cold, desert night.

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“Why not? If you’re so attracted to him, what’s the concern?” Eva turned over a Tarot card and studied it. “Hmmm….” “You know I can’t do that. I met him yesterday. Besides, he’s only visiting, he won’t be here long.” “Release your inner child. Let go for once. Rye, don’t let fear block this opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Have a fling. It is your fate. You owe it to your true self.” “I owe it to my true self not to get involved with a man like that.” Eve raised one dark brow and pursed her deep red lips. “When you’re old and drawing your last breath, what will you regret the most, the things you did or the things you didn’t do?” She hated it when Eva was right. **** The phone startled Rico from a deep sleep, interrupting an almost-wet dream involving his delectable neighbor. They’d been on the beach, the surf rolling in and out over their damp skin. Her body writhed underneath him. Her voice alternated between moaning and screaming. And those long legs of hers. If she’d wrap those legs around him like that just once, he’d die a happy man. Then there were those emerald eyes. They penetrated right through all his defenses. They saw him, the real him, and sent him to places this man hadn’t gone before. The phone rang again, rudely reminding him once more to beam back down to the planet. He flipped open the cell phone and spoke into it, “Hola.” “Rico, how are you?” “Great, Angel.” Rico stretched and tucked the phone under his chin. He linked his hands behind his head and sprawled out on the lounge chair in the warm sun. He had known his sister, Angelina, would get around to calling him sooner or later. At twenty-eight she was four years younger than him. Yet, she insisted on mothering him. “I haven’t heard from you. I wanted to make sure one of those Northwest monsters hadn’t taken off with you.” “They have monsters here?”

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“Yeah, what do they call them? Sasquatch, I think? Not to mention the volcanoes and the earthquakes.” “No, I’ve seen nothing like that.” Unless you count the near-kiss Mariah and I shared last night. That qualified as a minor earthquake. “You sound rested.” “I am.” Rico yawned and stretched. “Good, you needed it. I’ve never seen you so on-edge. I thought you were gonna stuff dad in the air-conditioning vent just before you left.” Sometimes, Rico regretted that his sister worked for his company as an accountant. She always meddled in his business and personal life. Regardless, he loved her dearly. “I still don’t think I need a vacation. At least not a month-long one.” “Sure. You’ve been so charming to work with. None of us could stand being around you.” Rico growled at her but said nothing. Angel laughed. He’d never been able to intimidate her. “Besides, it’s perfect timing with Dad being on his honeymoon and out of everyone’s hair.” “Yeah, I guess. I’d never leave the business for a month if he was around. We’d all be bankrupt.” “I thought we almost were.” He ignored that remark. “Have you heard from him?” “Yeah, he’s having a great time with his latest chicky baby, what is her name anyway?” “Hell if I know. I don’t bother learning their names until they pass the one-month test.” “One month married to Dad and not filing for a divorce?” “Yep, that’s it. I don’t understood why he bothers to marry them anymore.” “It’s a mystery to me.” “Yeah.” Rico sighed. “Wish he’d try for a more mature woman.” “Like over twenty-one?” Angel laughed. “I really do miss you. What’s it like there? Is it as beautiful as Max and Carmen claimed?”

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“It’s all right. The best thing is that not one person has recognized me. I’m one of the crowd around here. Funny how things that most people take for granted can be such a luxury. You've told no one where I am?” “Of course not. If I had, the aunts, uncles, and cousins would already be on your doorstep, palms extended.” “I can't believe I’m running from my own family.” “You need a break. They need a dose of living without your constant handouts.” She switched subjects. “Have you been keeping yourself busy?” Rico hesitated. An enticing woman to seduce did wonders for a guy’s boredom. He wasn’t about to tell Angel that though. Unfortunately, Angel knew him too well and read his mind. “Don’t tell me. You’ve met a woman?” “I’ve found someone to spend some time with. Muy caliente. We’re going out tonight.” “Hot, huh? God, Rico, that’s good to hear. You need a diversion like that with someone who isn’t in the business.” Rico didn’t respond. He considered Mariah a diversion, yet it didn’t sit well with him when Angel made the same assumption. “Angel, do you know anything about horses?” “No, not much. Why?” Angel sounded puzzled. “This woman I met. She makes horses dance. It’s the most incredible thing I’ve ever seen.” “They stand up on their hind legs and dance? Is she in the circus?” His sister’s rich laughter echoed across the phone. “No, when she rides them, it’s...it’s....” Rico sought the words. He couldn't find the right ones in English or Spanish. “It’s magic.” “Okay. If you say so, Rico.” “You have to see it to appreciate it.” “Let me get this straight, you’re seeing a woman who works in the circus and makes horses dance by using magic? Do they tango or waltz or what?” “Awwww, forget it.” Rolling to his feet, he tucked the cell phone under his chin and walked into the house. He checked himself out in the bathroom mirror. He needed a shave and his hair had been pretty much wash and wear this morning. He briefly considered a shower then decided not to bother. He hadn’t done enough all day to possibly get dirty.

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His hair drove him nuts. He liked it shorter because the longer it got the more it seemed to do its own thing. It kept falling in his eyes, yet he didn’t dare cut it. So far, he’d managed to remain anonymous even though he’d received some curious second looks. If word got out that he was on the island, he might as well pack up and leave. **** Mariah eyed herself in the mirror with distress. Her hair refused to cooperate. Her wrinkled dress hung on her like a sack. Her makeup just wasn’t right. She’d broken a fingernail and plucked her eyebrows until they'd almost disappeared. Eva insisted she could be in a Clairol commercial with her hair and eyes, but Eva loved to exaggerate. Mariah thought she resembled a before picture from a Glamour makeover article. Sighing dramatically, she brushed her long dark hair, attempting to bring out the auburn highlights. After she put down the hairbrush, she shook her head in disgust and applied some more eyeliner to her eyes. She turned around several times, frowning at her appearance with a critical eye. When she looked in the mirror, she saw herself as she’d been in high school, gangly and awkward with long legs and arms. She’d towered over the boys in her class and slumped whenever she stood next to them. She almost cried when she splattered nail polish on her new dress. In exasperation, she threw herself down on the bed and stared at the ceiling. Calm down, it was just dinner with a guy. Okay, a scruffy, gorgeous guy but still just a guy. She didn’t have to go home with him or invite him to her place. Just have dinner and relax and keep the dessert in the restaurant. Mariah sighed. The only way she’d avoid the inevitable would be to refuse to see him. Her body had already made its decision. It was only a matter of time. Once they slept together, that would be the end of him. She couldn’t meet his expectations in comparison with the other women he’d probably had. After all, she was lousy in bed, a cold fish. That’s what Warren had always told her.

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Chapter 4 The Wine and Dine Rico sipped his wine and surveyed the old mansion’s bar, once the main living room. The place reminded him of a classical luxury liner with its nautical theme and mission-style antiques. A massive concrete and marblechip fireplace dominated one wall. Stained glass lanterns and candles cast the room in a warm glow, just perfect for a little romantic liaison. In one corner, a musician set up his keyboard near the teak dance floor for the night’s entertainment. The music had to be more tolerable than the Karaoke singers from the night before. It couldn’t be worse. Mariah's choice of locations left him wondering what his sexy island girl had in mind for tonight. He couldn’t have created a better backdrop for a seduction if he'd planned it himself. Shame on her, pretending to be so innocent and sweet then picking this particular place for their little rendezvous. He was starting to feel pretty lucky. Then again, one glass of wine and a half a plate of nachos later, Rico checked his watch for the hundredth time. A half hour late. He drummed his fingers on the table until the couple next to him asked to be moved. Sighing, he poured another glass of wine. At this rate he'd be drunk before dinner. What if she didn't show? His heart sank at the thought, leaving him with a sick feeling in the pit of his stomach. He didn’t have her phone number either. That was a major oversight on his part. Giving in to weakness, he left his seat and stepped outside. Lighting a cigarette, he inhaled deeply. Nasty habit, someday he’d quit. At least, he’d cut back. Lately, he only smoked when he was stressed or with other smokers. This woman was driving him to drink and smoke, two bad habits he'd curtailed in the past couple years.

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He was in lust, pure and simple, and damn, it had felt good. Now it just felt frustrating. Where the hell was that woman? Despite his former reputation as a Latin lover, the last time he’d slept with a woman had been months ago. Mariah could temporarily fill that void in his life, one that had been there since Carmen had dumped him four years ago. Rico shivered as a breeze blew in from the water. The setting sun colored Cascade Bay in oranges and reds. It’d be dark before long. He took one last drag, drew the smoke into his lungs then stubbed out his cigarette. Walking back into the bar, he slumped in his chair. A few tables away, two gorgeous women tried to get his attention. Disinterested, Rico moved his chair, giving them a view of his back. He didn’t want either of them, he wanted Mariah. Forty-five minutes late and counting. He debated on how long he should stay before giving up on her. He felt something. Then he knew. He swung his gaze to the doorway. She stood there, an angel of mercy rescuing a drowning man. When she spotted him, a soul-warming smile crossed her beautiful face. His heart sped up, and he held his breath. His body hummed with anticipation. She did it for him in pretty much every way he could think of and maybe some he hadn’t thought of in a long time. Her incredible hair was loose and softly curled. He indulged in a splitsecond fantasy in which her long mane grazed his naked thighs. His eyes dropped lower. A sleeveless white top bared an inch of her midriff, and black Capri pants hugged her long legs. Yet another fantasy in the making. Rico needed those fantasies to become a reality. And soon. He glanced down at his own clothes, his usual faded jeans, scuffed boots, and white t-shirt. He'd taken this casual Northwest way of dressing to heart. Hey, at least he was clean. Mariah would hyperventilate if she ever got a load of his closet brimming with Armani and Calvin Klein at home. She reached the table, and he stood. “You look muy caliente. Very hot.” “Thank you.” An attractive crimson stained her cheeks. Moving aside, he helped her slide onto the padded wooden bench then settled beside her. Her surprised expression indicated she probably hadn’t expected such good manners. After all, he drank wine from a bottle and had a sexual innuendo (or two) for every occasion.

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“I’m so sorry I’m late.” She did the lowered lashes and coy smile thing to perfection. It worked for him. “I’m just glad you’re here. I was worried you might stand me up.” He hoped he didn't sound like he was groveling. Dios. He didn't grovel. “I would never do that to you, Rodrigo.” She blushed, again. “That’s nice to know.” Satisfaction warmed his body. He looked around for a distraction, not for her, but him. “Mariah, this mansion is impressive. God knows, I’ve had a lot of time to explore it while I was waiting for you.” “I’m sorry.” She did look a little sheepish. “That's okay. I didn't mind.” Liar. “I love this place.” Her eyes swept the room. “Shipwrights built it in the early 1900s for Robert Moran. He was a shipbuilder and mayor of Seattle. In his forties, his doctors diagnosed him with a heart condition and gave him only a few years to live. He retired to Orcas Island and built this estate with the same care in which he built his battleships.” “So once he moved here, how long did he live?” “I think he was in his late eighties when he died.” “So the Islands saved his life?” He almost smiled. “The laid-back island lifestyle with a little magic thrown in rescued him. Orcas is known as the mystical island. Did you know that?” “Yeah, you mentioned something about that yesterday.” Relaxing, Rico leaned back against the bench and folded his arms across his stomach. “Do you believe that stuff?” Mariah shrugged. “Sometimes I wonder.” “Did you grow up here?” “In a way. I spent my summers on the farm for as long as I can remember. Actually, I’m from Seattle, born and raised there, but this feels like home.” Rico raised his wine glass and offered a toast. “To beautiful islands and a beautiful woman.” Mariah touched her glass to his and a rosy flush stained her cheeks. That was three times in less than five minutes. Not bad, even for him. He congratulated himself for being such a smooth devil and saying the right things. Maybe he wouldn’t be sleeping alone tonight after all. “I’ve been meaning to ask, how do you know Max?”

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That question caught him off-guard. She must have decided it was time to switch channels to safer programming. No matter, he’d take advantage of the next opportunity and flip back to an adult channel. “Max? We’ve been friends for...I don’t know...a lifetime? Fourteen, fifteen years, I guess. We met when I was in high school. He’s six years older. I sang in a band he had at the time. He’s been with me through all the good and bad stuff.” “I hope the good outweighs the bad.” Rico shrugged. “I don’t know. Sometimes I’m not sure.” He did know he wasn’t going there. Not now, not with her. “He’s a nice guy. I loved working for him and Carmen. They’re great together. So you used to sing?” Rico laughed, but it sounded hollow even to his own ears. “That was another life. Long ago.” “Was the band one I would have heard of?” “It's doubtful.” Suspicion flashed in her eyes. She didn't buy it, and who could blame her. “Do you miss it?” “Not most of it. I hated being on the road all the time. Didn’t like the spotlight. Why do you ask?” “Just the expression on your face.” He shrugged. She’d struck a nerve. He set his jaw and closed up. She looked away, probably upset by the coldness in his eyes. Her probing questions about his past made him uncomfortable. He'd made a gross error in judgment by admitting that he used to sing. If she put two and two together, she'd figure out that he was a has-been, someone with a lot of regrets and too many ghosts. He didn’t want her to think that of him. Mariah absently swirled the wine around in her glass. Rico watched her delicate hand and imagined those fingers wrapped around something other than the stem of a goblet. He could be so lucky. Sometimes, he wondered where his brain was buried, other times, he was pretty sure he knew. He was his father’s son. Sighing with resignation, he raised his eyes to hers. “I’m sorry. I just don’t want to talk about it.” “That’s okay. I understand. There are things in my life that I don’t like to talk about either.”

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Rico nodded. She had her secrets, and he had his. Maybe before their time together ended, he’d find out what caused the pain and sadness reflected in her green eyes. She hid it well, but he saw through her smiles. She hurt, just as he did. They were two lonely people looking for a safe harbor. Rico put his arm around the back of the bench and hugged her close to his side. She rewarded him with one of her radiant smiles. Her mercurial changes in mood fascinated him, and her dancing eyes bewitched him. “Do you feel it, Rodrigo? Do you feel the magic of this place? Do you feel as if your cares have just drifted away? As if life has slowed down, and you’ve been transported back in time?” She put her hand on his arm and looked up at him. Gazing into her eyes reminded him of floating lazily in an emerald lake on a summer day. She made him feel so warm, so content. He could stay there all day and bask in the sunlight. She cleared her throat. He realized she was waiting for an answer, but he’d forgotten the question. Finally, he pulled it from the murky depths of his memory. “Oh, yeah, I feel it,” he agreed, referring to something completely different. He felt it alright. He felt her, and he wanted to feel more of her. As far as her islands went, he could take them or leave them. “I knew you did.” She squeezed his arm. Man, what a fraud he was in light of her enthusiasm for Mother Nature. Well, if the shoe fit. He’d earned that title in more ways than one. Most of the time, he really didn't know who the real Rico Sanchez was and didn’t care to find out. Her hand on his arm excited his body and one part in particular. What was it with her? Why did most women pale in comparison? Her innocent beauty and unabashed enthusiasm drew him in. No doubt about it. He was in lust. Big time. Of course, his fascination with her had nothing to do with his heart. When it came to romantic relationships, he kept his heart out of the deal. ****

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Mariah sipped her wine then chanced a look at him. Her heart sped up when their eyes met. She loved the way his slow, sexy smile crinkled the corners of his eyes. The man was lethal, absolutely deadly. His thick, unruly hair gave the impression he'd just gotten out of bed. He didn't seem to own a comb. A good stylist would have a field day with that hair. As far as his clothes, well, she wasn’t going there. At least, not tonight. She wanted to ravish him, whatever that meant. She’d fantasized about learning the meaning of that particular word with the right man. Judging by her physical reactions to Rodrigo, he won her body’s vote. She’d never been one to have a summer affair. Actually, she’d never had an affair any time of the year. Unless, you count sleeping with Warren three times, and she chose not to count it. Maybe Eva was right. Maybe the time had come for her to quit being a good girl and live life on the wild side. Throughout dinner, Rodrigo entertained her with stories about his bumbling father, interfering sister, and his business. She wondered about his profession, though. International trade could be anything. He could be a smuggler of drugs or stolen artwork. If his clothes were any indication of his income, he wasn’t very good at whatever he did. As far as the sunglasses and watch, they were probably gifts from clients. Or stolen? Mariah reined in her overactive imagination. Surely, Max and Carmen wouldn’t open up their home to a crook? Yet, the man was hiding something. “Do you like to dance, Mariah?” Rodrigo pulled her out of her thoughts. She smiled and nodded. “I love to dance.” The thought of dancing after such a long time excited her, especially with this scruffy Latin with the espresso eyes. Rodrigo stood and extended his hand to her. “In that case, would you like to dance with me?” “Sí, Señor.” She adopted an exaggerated Spanish accent which made him laugh. “I thought you’d never ask.” He entwined his fingers with hers. His touch was incredibly intimate for mere hand-holding. She tried to pull away, but his hand tightened. Rodrigo’s eyes traveled a meandering path down her body and back up again. This man made love with his eyes better than Warren had with his entire body. Her nipples hardened, and she felt a funny feeling between her legs. Rodrigo led her to the dance floor and steered her to the darkest corner. Once his arms circled her waist, Mariah melted into his warmth. He molded

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her to the length of his lean body. She pressed her breasts against his solid chest. Her arms locked around his neck. Lifting her eyes to his, she burrowed into their mocha depths. She felt warm and safe, cradled in his arms. In truth, she was probably anything but safe. They danced as if they’d been partners their entire life. Rodrigo provided an excellent lead. Mariah followed his every move with ease. They glided across the dance floor, their bodies in unison. She brushed her face against his cheek and inhaled his masculine scent. He smelled of tobacco, soap, and cologne. Was it Calvin Klein? She’d have to ask him. He’d worn that same expensive cologne a few days ago. For the remainder of the evening, they danced almost every dance together. The last dance happened to be one of her favorite songs, a romantic ballad and the infamous Rico Sanchez’s biggest hit. Content, she snuggled into Rodrigo’s arms and whispered in his ear. “I adore this song.” “You do, love?” He held her tighter. He sounded pleased. “Oh, yes,” She laid her head on his shoulder. He’d called her “love”. She suspected that endearment didn’t mean anything to him, but it made her feel good. He probably used it like some people used “honey”. “Were you a Rico Sanchez fan?” “I don’t know if I’d call myself a fan, but I have a couple of his CDs. He had an incredible talent. Too bad he’s not singing or writing songs anymore.” “Yeah. I know.” He buried his face in her silky brown hair. Why did he sound so melancholy? A nagging suspicion tickled the back of her mind, but she tamped it down, warning herself not to tread that dangerous path. Rodrigo was Rodrigo. That was it. The stubble on his face chafed her neck like sandpaper on silk. His roughness against her smoothness did strange things to her insides. He tickled her neck with his breath then his lips followed. His tongue traced a path down to her collarbone, teasing and enticing. A whimper escaped from deep in her throat. “Rigo. Please. The song’s ended.” She stepped out of his arms and back to sanity. He felt so good, so male, so dark and dangerous and sexy, so...so...Latin. Yes, Latin. Most women were suckers for Latin men. Why should she be an exception?

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His hands rubbed her hips. She stared at his throat; any higher would be asking for trouble. One look in those eyes and she’d deny him nothing. “That was the last song.” “Hmmm, I know, but that doesn’t mean the night has to end here.” His husky voice promised rumpled sheets, sweaty bodies, and Spanish sex-talk. The images alone were enough to make a smart girl do dumb things. Mariah pulled away from him. She walked a little unsteadily to their table with Rodrigo on her heels. Wisely, she ignored his invitation even though she wanted to accept. It wasn't like her to sleep with a man she’d just met and barely knew. Unfortunately, with this man, her strongest convictions flew out the window. Her feelings for him were a confused jumble. She wanted to do wild things to him, and she wanted him to do wilder things to her. Yet, she also wanted to run as far away from him as she could. He had no idea what he was getting into with her. She couldn't stand the thought of disappointing him. Rodrigo paid their bill, and they walked to the parking lot. He reached for her hand and wove his fingers around hers. A thrill of excitement pulsated through her body. She didn’t pull away this time. Dancing closely to him for several dances made his touch familiar and welcome. Squeezing his hand, she gazed up at him. His heated look coated her body like warm syrup on pancakes. They walked slowly, reluctant for the night to end. Neither spoke for fear of ruining the mood of the evening. His hand engulfed hers with a firm, gentle strength. Mariah stopped in front of her car then turned to face him. “I had a great time tonight.” “So did I. You’re a fantastic dancer, Mariah. Have you ever done any dancing professionally?” Mariah found that funny, and her laughter rang through the still night. “No, not hardly, but I could ask the same of you.” “Actually, I have.” “Really?” “Yeah, I’ll tell you about it sometime.” “Well, it’s a pleasure to have a dance partner like you.” Rodrigo raised his eyebrows. “You haven’t seen pleasure yet. That was just foreplay.”

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She’d asked for that one with her innocent remark. Rodrigo moved closer. His large hands slipped around her slim waist, and he pulled her to him until her hips were cradled against his. She shifted slightly to avoid the proof of his arousal. “Uh uh, bella,” he whispered in her ear. “Feel what you’ve done to me.” He readjusted her hips so he once more rested against hers. “Rigo, don’t....” One hand cupped her jaw as he compelled her to look up at him. His eyes stripped away layers of emotional barriers and found her very soul. She quivered, making another feeble attempt to put a comfortable distance between them. Desire and determination blazed in his eyes. He was going to kiss her. The thought terrified and exhilarated her. She squirmed. “Not a good idea, baby.” His eyes grew darker. His breathing, heavier. His intent, clearer. His body, harder. Rico bent his head, taking his time. Those chocolate eyes handcuffed her common sense and stuffed it out of the way. His warm breath feathered her lips, as he groaned and drew her closer. That sexy mouth touched hers and melted the last of her resolve. She curled her arms around his neck and leaned into him. Her tension faded away as he slid his lips back and forth across hers in a gentle motion. Mariah gripped him tighter. Shutting her eyes, she lost herself in the sensations caused by the man’s mouth, hands, and body heating her from the outside in. He sucked on her lower lip, drawing it into his mouth and caressing it with a clever, persuading tongue. When her lips parted, his tongue slid inside. The moist sensuality of his mouth enticed her to follow his lead. No longer in control of her body or brain, Mariah moved more insistently against him. Her world tipped on its axis. He held her up, or she’d have flowed like molten lava down his long legs to form a steaming puddle at his feet. Tentatively, she touched her tongue to his. The answering stroke of his tongue seared her insides. His hands kneaded her bottom as he pulled her closer, his hips pressing against hers. Feelings she didn't know she was capable of flared within her. His gentle persuasiveness took on a demanding insistence. She clutched his broad shoulders, swept along for the ride. The wild ride. Rubbing against him like a cat, her body responded to his with an intense longing for

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fulfillment. No, not just a longing, but a demand for fulfillment. It built in degrees until that demand became too great to control. She followed wherever he led, just like when they’d danced. Emotions whirled around her in a kaleidoscope of ever-changing colors. The intensity of his kiss increased several notches, demanding then taking. She met his hot, Latin passion with a wild innocence of her own, matching him stroke for stroke. Did kissing this man offer a preview of what sex with him would be like? If so, she wanted more. No man had ever elicited such blistering desire in her before. She’d always been scared of not measuring up to their expectations, too worried to enjoy herself. Her insecurities dissolved with Rodrigo. Amazed, she realized she really could kiss—the right man. Who would’ve guessed it? Not Warren. He swore kissing her was as exciting as kissing a hunk of raw liver, not a romantic thought. Maybe the right man part was debatable. Maybe Rodrigo was the wrong man in every way except a physical sense. At this point, she didn’t care. Besides, he seemed to like her kisses judging by the way his body rubbed against hers like he wanted to crawl inside. A seed of confidence took root within her. She could do this. She could enjoy it with him. He slipped his hand under her short top. He hesitated, waiting for permission. He didn’t need to ask. She burned for his touch. Surely, he felt her aroused nipples through the thin layers of clothing. So much for her good-girl convictions. Being Rodrigo’s bad girl would be a heck of a lot more fun. Taking his hand in hers, she guided it upward until it was a fraction of an inch from her bra. He didn’t need any additional encouragement. She gripped his waist and wrapped a leg around his muscled thigh, desperate to get closer, to burrow under his skin. They broke the kiss at the same time. Stifling a moan, she opened her mouth against his shoulder. Rodrigo nipped at the tender skin on her neck. Like a marauder, he took what he wanted and left chaos in his wake. She whimpered and pressed more insistently against him. He pushed her bra up to release her breasts, not taking the time to unfasten it. Mariah should have been uncomfortable, but she didn’t notice. She needed him to scratch her itch, light her torch, burn her house down. “Oh, God, Rigo.”

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He dragged his mouth away from her neck. “What do you want, querida?” He caressed the bare skin around one breast. She hungered for more of him, but he avoided touching her where she ached. “Touch me,” she begged, so much for pride. “Where? Rye, tell me where?” he whispered hoarsely, his fingers not quite hitting the target. Her fingernails dug into his back. Her leg tightened around his thigh. Licking his neck, she teased him and listened to him moan her name. “Mariah, tell me what you....” Their world exploded with a loud crash followed by several bangs and thumps. They leapt apart. Mariah’s leg tangled in his thigh, and she stumbled backwards into a bush. She caught the startled look on Rodrigo’s face. Yanking her out of the bush, he cemented her to his side. His eyes darted around, scanning the bushes. If Mariah wouldn’t have been so overwhelmed by lust, she might have considered his reaction funny, even odd. Did he have reason to believe someone was watching him? Rodrigo’s face displayed visible relief when the cause of the disturbance presented itself. A large tabby cat strutted by as if nothing happened. The spell broken, Mariah stepped away a few feet. She rearranged her clothes into a semblance of order. Rodrigo let her go and inspected their surroundings. He seemed disconcerted even rattled. Finally satisfied nothing was amiss, he turned back to her and visibly gathered his composure. “Come home with me tonight, Mariah,” he coaxed, slipping smoothly back into the role of a seducer, though his convictions didn't seem as strong. Maybe the guy was married and feared a private investigator was on his heels. That thought poured cold water on any plans she'd had for the night. After all, her was obviously hiding something. “No.” “What?” Rodrigo couldn’t conceal his astonishment. “I said no.” Rodrigo grinned lazily. “You cannot mean that.” Irritation raced through her. “No means no.” Who did this insufferable, conceited man think he was? Actually, she knew the answer to that. He was the same guy who just had his tongue halfway down her throat. He was also the same guy she’d brazenly encouraged to fondle her in a public parking

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lot. She'd gone mad, taken temporary leave of her sanity. She needed to get away now and get away fast. “What’s that supposed to mean?” Rodrigo sounded insulted. She couldn’t blame him for thinking he was about to score, considering the way her body had latched onto his and abandoned all common sense. “It means, Señor Perez, I’m not going to be another notch on your already crowded bedpost.” “How do you know my bedpost is crowded?” She couldn’t answer that question. She just knew. She may not know much about him, but she knew this. The man was supremely confident regarding his prowess with women, also stubborn, but so was she. She wouldn’t do this. As much as she wanted to, she couldn’t. It had to be special to both of them, or she wanted no part of it. She had more pride than to be another conquest for him. It meant nothing to him. It meant everything to her. “You’re the type of man who can have any woman he wants.” “Except this one?” “Except this one.” “Why are you denying what you so obviously want?” He attempted to reason with her. “Because it has to be special.” “It will be special.” “You know what I mean. Rodrigo, I don’t have casual affairs. Sex isn’t just recreation to me. Besides, we just met.” She reached up and put her hands on his chest. “Please, give me some time. This has all happened so fast.” He took her hands in his and searched her eyes. “You and I would be good together.” “I don't know.” Mariah broke her eyes away from his penetrating gaze. “Go out with me again tomorrow night.” He bestowed one of his most disarming smiles upon her, and his persuasive charm wore her down. “Okay.” She moved quickly to her car door. Rodrigo reached around to open it for her. As soon as she settled in the seat, he bent down to plant a lingering kiss on her lips. “I look forward to tomorrow night, Mariah.”

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Mariah swallowed and gazed up at him. She was doomed. They both knew it. It was only a matter of time before he wore her down. At least, she'd make the man work for it. He straightened and closed the car door. She glanced at him through the window, waved, and drove down the driveway. She was playing with fire. This man had been around the block a few times, and she’d hardly been off the front porch.

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Chapter 5 The Prediction Rico held his guitar in his lap and lounged in the deck chair. The priceless 1953 Gibson, in mint condition with incomparable tone, had been a gift from Max, his best friend. Max, the man who’d stood by him through heaven and hell and the man who’d married the only woman Rico had ever truly loved. He should have hated him, hated them both, but he couldn't. Rico strummed a few nonsensical bars then waited for inspiration to strike him. Nothing happened, no flash of insight, no sign from some deity, not even one mediocre verse came to mind. Looking up, he studied the spectacular view before him. He tried in vain to see the splendor and magic that Mariah saw in these islands. She’d told him that centuries ago, an ancient mountain range had sunk into the sea and formed them. Mariah loved to talk about her islands, their history, and local folklore. While island history didn’t turn him on, he enjoyed listening to her melodic voice and watching her expressive face. If only a little of the woman’s enthusiasm would wear off on him maybe then he'd find the inspiration he'd been lacking for way too long. He hunched forward and hummed a few bars of a new song. No, that wouldn’t do. He tried again. Nope, that definitely sucked. Dissatisfied, he sat up and rested his chin in his hands, leaning his elbows on the guitar. He wasn’t sure what was worse: his jaded attitude or the frustration he felt every time he tried to put pen to paper. A songwriter without any songs in his soul was pretty pathetic. Make that former songwriter, he reminded himself. He was a businessman now and a somewhat successful one. He hadn’t written a marketable song in almost five years. There’d been a time when so many songs had begged to be born that he couldn’t capture them all on tape or paper. Now, he felt barren, empty, soulless and alone. So very

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alone. Except when he was with Mariah, then he forgot everything for a while. Frustrated, he looked at the water in the peaceful cove below. A large piece of driftwood floated past. Was that him? Adrift and lost in a world he’d once held in the palm of his hand. A world that was now alien to him. Who was he? Sometimes he thought he knew. Other times he hadn’t a clue. Rico’s eyes focused on Max’s yacht moored at the dock, really noticing it for the first time. He used to love the water and boating. There were so many things he used to love. He blew out a discouraged breath. Maybe the water would provide a catalyst for him to find with the real person buried beneath this stranger he’d become. It was worth a try. Hell, anything was worth a try, but only if he could convince Mariah to go with him. She’d managed to unlock his lust. Maybe she could unlock his soul. **** The warm afternoon sun gave way to a cool evening, typical weather for late August in the San Juans. Mariah chose a soft pink sweater that hugged her body and a pair of designer jeans. She prided herself on her good taste in clothes. After all, what client would hire a designer who didn’t know how to dress? Mariah calmed her butterflies as best she could. Tonight was worse than last night. Last night she hadn’t known what to expect. Now she faced the evening with a mixture of anticipation and dread. Rodrigo had made it clear what he wanted out of this thing they had going. She was torn as to what she wanted. She'd tried love, that hadn't panned out. On the other hand, she didn't think she was the kind of woman who could have meaningless affair. It’d have to mean something to her. If she did fall for him, she doubted it would mean as much to Rodrigo, but she'd be left with a broken heart. His rented SUV screeched into her driveway at exactly 7:00 P.M. Gravel flew in all directions as his wheels left skid marks extending several feet. Mariah waited on the front porch until the dust cleared. She’d been ready for almost thirty minutes. She never got ready on time, let alone early. She probably looked too eager, but she didn’t care. Rodrigo jumped out of the SUV and strode toward her. Stopping, he looked her up and down then whistled with appreciation. The man had a gift

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for making her feel as if she was the most beautiful woman in the world. She curtsied gracefully and walked down the front steps to where he stood. He bowed low with a flourish, playing the game with her. “Thank you.” “No, thank you.” He grinned like a little boy set free in a video arcade. His clothes consisted of his disintegrating jeans, a black leather jacket, a black t-shirt, and cowboy boots. He still hadn’t shaved, and his hair still hadn’t seen a comb all day. That black leather jacket, though—if it wasn’t designer quality, she’d eat her Nordstrom's credit card. Rodrigo placed a hand on her back, guided her to his SUV, and opened the passenger door. Before he shut it, he leaned down to kiss her with great tenderness and sent a tremor through her. On impulse, Mariah touched his cheek with her index finger. She ran it across his stubble and along his jaw. Rodrigo’s eyes burned into hers. He contemplated something for a moment then sighed with resignation. With a shake of his head, he shut the passenger door. It didn’t take an experienced woman to know the man wanted more than he’d just gotten. “Where to, Mariah?” he asked as he started the engine. Mariah looked down at her hands and twisted them in her lap. “My friends, Eva and Jamal, invited us over for a drink. We don’t have to go if you don’t want to.” She prayed he’d decline the offer. Instead he winked at her and grinned. “Sounds great to me. Just tell me how to get there.” Rodrigo crammed the SUV in gear, and they were off in a cloud of flying dust and gravel. They drove a few minutes in silence before Mariah finally spoke. “Uh, Rigo, before we get to Eva and Jamal’s, I need to warn you about them.” “Why?” “They’re a little...um...different.” What an understatement. Different didn’t begin to describe those two. “Different? Okay, I'm intrigued.” His mocha eyes danced with mischief. “What makes them different? Do they have forty-seven cats in the house, and I’ll be picking cat hair out of my mouth all night? Maybe they’ll subject us to countless hours of home videos from their Grand Canyon vacation? Or they’ve worked out a new routine on their accordions? Dios, they aren’t addicted to Karaoke, are they? Maybe they shower only once a year on a full moon?”

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Mariah doubled over with laughter. “Well, if that’s the case, you’re in luck. We just had a full moon.” “Do they raise geckos?” Rodrigo said with a grin as he glanced at her out of the corner of his eye. “Geckos?” Mariah’s eyes grew big in mock horror. “Yeah, you know, cute little guys.... Reptiles. Long tails. Beady little eyes. Live in trees and sell insurance on the side.” Mariah wiped the tears from her eyes and attempted to compose herself. “No, really, none of the above. Do you know you’re goofy?” “Goofy? I’ve been called a lot of things, bella, but I don’t recall goofy being one of them.” “I guess I just bring out the best in you.” She touched his arm and stroked his rock-solid biceps. She was a sucker for those arms of his. Of course, that’s not all she was a sucker for. “You do bring out something in me.” He placed his hand over hers and squeezed it. “So what about these two friends of yours? Why are they different?” “They’re free spirits. Eccentric.” Mariah hesitated. Eva was difficult to explain. “Eva thinks she’s a mystic.” “A mystic?” “Yeah, you know, like a psychic?” “I know what a mystic is,” Rodrigo countered. “Do you think she has psychic powers?” “Mostly, I don’t. It’s rumored that she was a top-ranking executive for a Seattle software firm. She had a vision that told her to live a simpler life. She donated her money, stocks, and material possessions to charities. Her stocks were worth millions. Now she works as a masseuse at Rosario resort. She predicts the future, reads palms, does astrology charts, and stuff like that in her home. She doesn’t even own a computer anymore.” “No kidding?” Admiration snuck into his voice. “It takes a lot of guts to give up everything.” “Yeah, it does. Not that I’ve heard any of this directly from Eva, but there aren’t too many secrets on this island among the locals. Eva guards her former life with a vengeance.” Mariah shrugged. “I seem to gravitate to people that are different. I don’t know why.” “Like me?”

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Mariah studied him for a minute. Oh yeah, he was different, all right. She still didn’t have him figured out. He hid his pain and fear behind a wall of confidence and brashness. “You got that right, amigo. I’m forewarned about her. That’s all. She’s a little disconcerting to people who don’t realize what they’re getting into when they first meet her. And there’s one more thing....” “And that is?” His mouth twitched with amusement. “She dresses like a colorblind gypsy.” Rodrigo glanced at her, pretending shock. “My little fashion princess hasn’t been able to reform her?” “I haven’t tried. Yet. Actually, my next project is you.” She gave him the once over with her eyes. In her mind, she pictured a cleaned up and welldressed Rodrigo. Then again, women would be fainting at his feet, and she wouldn't stand a chance. Rodrigo remained oddly silent, not taking the bait. She studied him for a moment. He ought to do something with that hair. It stuck up all over the place. And the way he dressed. How about a shave? He was still gorgeous, no matter how you looked at it. Unfortunately, that sexy stubble wouldn’t give her face any relief from whisker burns tonight. “Are you worried I can’t handle her?” Rodrigo tossed her that cocky, self-confident grin she'd come to know and love. “Well, it’s just that she acts as if she knows something about you that you don’t know. Goes for the shock value. She missed her calling, should have been a writer for one of those supermarket tabloids. It drives me crazy when she gets that mysterious ‘know-all, see-all’ attitude.” “Maybe she thinks she’s your spirit guide?” “She’s more like my spirit pain in the butt.” Rodrigo threw back his head and laughed. “Some people need a spirit pain in the butt to keep them on track.” Mariah ignored that last remark. “That’s not all. There’s Jamal. He used to be a pro football linebacker till he blew out his knee. Now he’s a bartender.” “Did he give all his money away, too?”

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“No, he partied it away. Blew it on women and who knows what else. He portrays this intimidating image, but he’s really a Teddy bear. He’s been with Eva for years, off and on. He's blunt and to the point.” “This should be an interesting night.” “Believe me, it will be.” If she survived it in one piece. Mariah questioned the sanity of her decision to take Rodrigo to Eva and Jamal’s house. **** Eva turned out to be everything Rico expected. Exotically beautiful with her jet black hair and fair skin, her penetrating blue eyes and powerful personality dominated the room. She wore a brightly colored gypsy dress. Jewelry adorned every available space on her wrists, neck, earlobes, and fingers. When she moved, she sounded like an out-of-tune wind chime. The stuff appeared to be quite real, too, no costume jewelry for this woman. Obviously, she hadn’t given everything away when she decided to live a simpler life. She scrutinized him like an alley cat eyeing a fat canary. Dissecting his every weakness, insecurity, and fear, she seemed to be cataloging them for future reference. The woman didn’t miss a thing. They locked eyes. She saw more than he wanted her to see. He looked away first. She knows. He felt a stab of fear. Yet, something in her expression assured him that his secret would be safe with her. For now. Jamal, on the other hand, was her exact opposite, huge, dark, and pure muscle. He moved with a grace that belied his mammoth size. His shaved head and numerous tattoos added to the intimidation factor. The man played it to the hilt too. He towered over Rico and glared down at him. At 6’3”, Rico wasn’t accustomed to that. Knowing a guy like Jamal wouldn’t respect a man who showed any weakness, Rico met his with unwavering confidence and hoped he did a passable job of faking it. Hopefully, the big guy didn’t read minds, too, or he was in deep shit; since he was mentally shaking in his boots. Jamal reached out, and Rico resisted the urge to duck. He received a friendly slap on the back that almost knocked him over. Jamal laughed heartily, getting a kick out of the little guy’s instability.

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“Jamal likes you,” Mariah whispered as she wrapped her fingers around his arm. He smiled down at her. God, the things he did for this woman. They settled into the comfortable living room. Bright upholstery covered the simple furniture. Objects from around the world decorated the walls and shelves. Cascade Bay and the Moran Mansion were visible through the large picture windows. The comfortable, eclectic setting made even a stranger like him feel at home. Jamal served drinks then shot the first salvo. “I’ve been waiting to meet the man that has our Mariah drooling like a St. Bernard lusting over a t-bone steak. I’ve never seen her so worked up. Take my word for it. Several of my former teammates have tried to score with her, instead they fumbled or threw an incomplete pass, know what I mean?” Jamal winked at him. Football wasn’t Rico’s sport, but he understood the references. Did Jamal equate everything in life to football? “Now you, Rodrigo, she’s ready to sack you or get you in the sack.” Mariah’s mouth dropped open in horror. An attractive deep red colored her cheeks. “Jamal!” she admonished him. Rico grinned. This was starting out pretty well as far as he was concerned. “Really? She sure likes to pretend otherwise.” Mariah turned the full force of her murderous gaze on Rico, but he just smiled sweetly at her. “Our near-virgin pretends she’s immune to physical attractions. Fate has brought you together to work out your karma.” “Near virgin, huh?” Rico leaned forward. This was getting more interesting by the second. Eva paused to point at Mariah whose annoyance grew exponentially by the minute. “Beware. She was royalty in another life. In fact, I believe her nickname among her sorority sisters in college was Princess Rye.” “Plenty of guys on the Island have tried to hustle Mariah, too, but she’s eluded them so far,” Jamal added. “Your meeting is no coincidence.” Eva surveyed Rico boldly up and down. “She needs the right man to help release the woman trapped inside.” “I’d like to think that I’m up to that.” Mariah rolled her eyes. “Someone have mercy on me and put me out of my misery, please. What was I thinking to bring you here?”

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“I'm enjoying Eva's insights. You should listen to her. She gives good advice.” “You would say that.” Rico put his arm around her and pulled her closer to him while Mariah pouted. She’d make him pay later. He had no doubt about that. “Rodrigo, don’t fall for her sweet, amenable personality. Underneath it all is an ambitious, strong-willed woman. She’s a Gemini. You never know which twin you’re going to get, but it does make life interesting for man who is easily bored.” This strange woman seemed to have him figured out. He hadn't realized he was so transparent. Perhaps, she just remembered things she'd read about him. “You're a Leo.” Rico concealed his surprise. “Uh, yes, I am.” “It's obvious. You'll be a good match.” “I think so.” “Would all of you quit talking about me like I’m not here?” “Believe me, I'm very aware that you're here.” Rico focused his full attention on her. She turned her head to look at him, and the sparks danced between them. Mariah entertained him and excited him. Her sassiness kept him on his toes. Weak women never held his interest for long, no matter how beautiful they were. Women who gave into his every whim bored him. He’d much rather watch Mariah’s eyes cast green daggers at him when he pushed her buttons. She was damned attractive when she was mad. **** Three hours later, Mariah held on tight as the SUV careened down the winding road toward her farm. “You missed the turn to take me home. Where are we going?” “I don’t know.” Mariah continued to stare at him. She certainly didn’t know where they were going either; on the road or in their relationship, if you could even call it a relationship at this stage.

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“Do you want to go home?” Rico reached for her hand and pried it off the dashboard. “No. It’s still early unless you’re tired. Eva and Jamal wear a person out.” “I’m not tired, not at all.” “How about a walk? Rosario has some great walking trails.” “Okay.” Rodrigo whipped the SUV around in the middle of the road and stepped on it. “Do you always drive like this?” Mariah croaked, gripping her seat. Rodrigo grinned recklessly. “No, I’m trying to keep it tame so I don’t scare you.” Mariah leaned her head against the leather seat. “Thanks for small favors, Rigo.” “Hey, I aim to please.” Rodrigo parked by the marina. They strolled hand-in-hand down a dimly lit path that skirted the edge of a man-made pond shaped like a figure eight. A small overgrown island sat in the center of each half. Low stone walls prevented guests from accidentally taking a dip and doubled as flower planters. Back in the 1920’s, lovers rowed their sweethearts around the pond in canoes. No longer used, the murky waters and overgrown vegetation stood as a silent testament to a simpler era. They walked in silence, each lost in their own thoughts. His hand felt warm and strong in hers. She remembered Eva’s words regarding what she would regret the most. Rodrigo said he’d be on the island a month. Was a month with this man worth a broken heart? Maybe, just maybe, it was. The alternative was not seeing him. That didn’t appeal to her at all. Rodrigo stopped under one of the willow trees. He tugged on Mariah’s hand to pull her around to face him. She didn’t resist. Instead she gazed up at him. The moonlight illuminated his strong features making the hard planes and contours of his face more visible. His arms slipped around her waist. He moved a step closer to her. Mariah wrapped her arms around his neck and gave in to the moment. Water lapped against the nearby marina breakwater and frogs croaked in the pond. Stars twinkled in the twilight sky like silver sequins on black velvet.

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Rodrigo gathered her closer. Her heart pounded against his chest. His hand slipped under her sweater and stroked the bare skin on her back. Not a single protest spilled from her lips. When his glance slid to her mouth, she shuddered with delicious anticipation. With an unsteady hand, Mariah touched the caramel skin bared by his open collar. She raked her fingernails lightly through his wiry chest hair. He stood still, allowing her fingers to go where they wanted. All the while, he traced circles on the small of her back. She lifted her head. His eyes glittered dangerously, promising things she could barely imagine. If only she had the guts to take him up on those promises. The vulnerability that came with such intimacy terrified her. But, one kiss couldn’t hurt. She tilted her head in invitation. Without hesitation, he met her halfway. Their tongues entwined. His lips caressed hers. An erotic fever rushed through her bloodstream. The ability to reason escaped her. There was nothing but the taste of him, the smell of him, and the feel of his body against hers. The world twirled around and around underneath her. She clung to him because her legs no longer functioned. Greedy for his touch, she wanted more, needed more. He deepened the kiss, while his mouth devoured and his tongue conquered. Rodrigo tunneled his fingers in her hair and pulled her closer as his tongue plunged deeper. One hand crept under the waistband of her Capri's and stroked bare skin. His kisses demanded more in their intensity. His other hand snaked up her back and expertly undid her bra clasp with a flick of his fingers. He unbuttoned her fly and started to lower the zipper. A small rational section of her mind registered the action. Sanity reared its ugly head. No. No. No. Apprehension overrode her desire. Her survival instincts kicked in. She jerked away so abruptly that he let her go. Dazed, Rodrigo stared at her. He raked one hand through his hair and flexed his fingers as if he couldn’t believe they were empty. His labored breathing and dilated pupils testified to how shamelessly she’d led him on. She was the worst kind of tease. Her actions had promised something she couldn’t deliver. Not tonight, not yet. If ever. “You were messing up my hair.” She offered as an excuse for her abrupt change in attitude.

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“I’d like to mess up more than your hair if you’d give me the chance.” He pulled her to him and nuzzled her neck, obviously ready for Round Two. “Is that all you think about?” She put her hands between them and pushed on his chest. “It’s a guy thing.” “Believe me, I’ve noticed.” He loosened his hold slightly so he could look down at her. “You have lipstick smeared on your cheek.” She made a feeble attempt to lighten the mood. “Baby, you can leave lipstick smears on any part of my body anytime you want.” Mariah frowned. “I wish I could take you up on that.” “Then do it.” His dark eyes turned a shade darker. “I don’t know.” “Tonight.” “I’m not what you’re used to. You don’t understand.” “I don’t know how to take that.” Rodrigo stared down into her troubled eyes. “What is it, bella?” He smoothed the loose strands of hair away from her face with amazing tenderness. Mariah looked away, unable to meet his eyes. She tried to break free, but he held her to him. “Please. This is stupid. I shouldn’t have accepted your first invitation. I’m so confused right now. I don’t know what to do with you.” “I could give you a few hints.” Mariah didn’t take the bait. “Rodrigo, please, can we slow down. I need time.” “Take all the time you need. Just make it quick.” “I'm serious.” His expression unreadable, he sighed then nodded.

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Chapter 6 The Godfather Rico swam with slow, lazy strokes around the pool then flipped onto his back. Bathed by the afternoon sun, he floated in the warm water. His thoughts drifted to Mariah, her smile, her eyes, her hair, her contagious laughter, and that luscious body. Every part of her pretty much did something to every part of him. Yet, one thing confused him. Her touch seemed tentative, inexperienced. Was he reading her correctly? She was beautiful. Surely, she’d had her share of lovers. If she hadn’t, well, he was certainly game for tutoring her. There was a thought to make his day and his nights. His cell phone began its incessant ringing and interrupted his musing. He swam to the edge of the pool and grabbed the obnoxious thing. Its intrusion into his daydreams annoyed him. For once, he’d actually been successful in his attempt to relax. Now this instrument of torture created by modern society slammed him back to reality. He should have switched off the damn thing. “Hello,” he said, out of breath. “Rico? Did I interrupt something? You’re breathless.” He hoisted himself to sit on the edge of the pool, dangling his feet in the water. “Car,” he spoke into the phone, willing his voice to sound even. Despite his best efforts, his heart sped up and his body responded as it always did to his former lover. Damn, just when he was doing a decent job of putting her out of his mind. “How are you, baby?” “I’m fine. Wonderful. I couldn’t be better.” The happiness in her voice twisted his gut. He was no longer the man who made her days or her nights or even counted in her thoughts. His earlier contentment evaporated. “That’s great.” He forced cheerfulness into his voice.

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“Are you alone?” she asked again, as if she didn’t want to inconvenience him. As if that woman could ever inconvenience him. Break his heart into a thousand pieces, yeah, but inconvenience, no way. “Yeah, I’m alone. I’ve been swimming.” He didn’t have to see her to imagine how she looked with her golden blond hair and deep blue eyes. “Well, I don’t want to keep you long, but Max and I agreed you needed to be the first to know.” She bubbled with excitement, and his stomach lurched. Somehow, he knew her good news translated into not-so-good news for him. “Well, tell me. Don’t keep me waiting?” There, did he sound suitably excited? Hell, no. “Oh, Rico. I’m pregnant!” He heard the tears of joy in her voice. Pregnant? Something died inside him, the last ember of his lost love. A door slammed shut and a lock clicked, sealing his fate. Since she’d married Max over a year ago, he’d known they’d never have another chance together. Yet, deep down he’d harbored a small flicker of hope. His heart ached for his loss, and he couldn’t bring himself to be happy for her, which made him the worst kind of heel. She needed a guy like Max, and Max deserved a woman like her. All he'd ever given her was grief. “Rico? Are you still there?” Her sexily husky voice was laced with concern. Once, he’d loved to hear that voice whispering to him in the middle of the night. Now it haunted his dreams and lived in his soul. “Yeah, I’m shocked. Wow. That’s incredible. I’m so happy for you.” And the gossip rags had claimed he couldn’t act. What the hell did they know? “Max and I want you to be the baby’s Godfather.” “I’m speechless.” That was an understatement. “I’m also honored.” There, he’d been noble and gracious, just like a good ex-boyfriend. He listened politely as she shared the details of her pregnancy. Every word she said drove a spike deeper into his heart. He blamed himself, even though he wanted to blame her. This baby could have been his if life had been different. If he had been different. “How are you, Rico? Max and I are worried about you. So is your family.” “They're worried about the gravy train running out of gravy.” “You know how we feel about that. You need to learn to say no.”

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“Easier said than done.” “You are not responsible for them. They are all capable of holding a job and supporting themselves.” He'd heard this all before. Along with the drugs and the drinking, his freeloader family had driven a wedge between them. Only Angel actually worked for her paycheck. “Let's not go there.” “Let's not. How are you doing?” “I’m enjoying my time here.” “I understand you’ve met a woman who dances with horses.” She laughed. The sound made him ache with loneliness and regret. “You’ve been talking to my sister.” “Of course, when could Angel ever keep her mouth shut where you’re concerned?” “She’s just a...a friend. Lots of fun. You know, a summer fling.” Nothing like you and I had together, he thought, downplaying his confused feelings toward Mariah. “Oh, Rico. I pray everyday that you'll find the happiness that I've found.” “I will. Someday.” Even as he said it, he knew he lied. He found it hard to believe he could ever love again like he'd loved Carmen. “Mariah doesn’t know who I am. I told her I’m in the international trade business, which is true. She probably thinks I sell drugs.” “Rico, you’re asking for trouble.” “It’s nice to be with someone who doesn’t have any pre-conceived notions about me.” “Wait a minute.” Carmen hesitated as what he’d said earlier clicked. “Mariah? Our neighbor? The interior designer?” “Yeah, that’s the one.” “Rico, she’s a nice girl. She’s been through enough tragedy. Please don’t break her heart.” “Car, I hate to cut this short, but I must go. Congratulations and thanks for the honor.” He felt a lecture coming on, and he wasn’t in the mood. Rico hung up the phone. He wasn’t like his father who turned love on and off like a water faucet. Years ago he’d trusted Carmen with his heart. Later, in his darkest hour, she’d fled, leaving him to flounder on his own.

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She might as well have ripped his heart out of his chest. Never would anyone get that close to him again. Never. Rico sprang to his feet and paced like a caged lion. He’d been loyal to a fault to his friends and family. Yet when it all played out in the end, his father deceived him and stole his money. Carmen abandoned him, not wanting any part of the scandal. His brother played him for a fool, using the situation to his advantage. His mother, who’d always been there, eloped with her boss and moved to Italy. All of them in their own way betrayed him. Some deliberately, some not. Something snapped inside him. Powerful emotions, smoldering for too long, ignited an uncontrollable inferno. The injustice of the situation enraged him and stoked that wildfire. Raw fury he hadn’t allowed himself to feel in four years exploded in his gut, sliced his soul, and ripped open old wounds. “FUCK YOU!” Rico bellowed over and over at the top of his lungs, as he unleashed all the anger and frustration he’d kept locked inside. “Screw you! All of you. Mierda! I trusted you, Carmen! Gave you everything. Why? Why did you dump me when I needed you most? Ramon, you bastard! I saved you from yourself. Look at the thanks I got, little brother. Dad. Oh, God, Dad. You, most of all. You lied to me then let me suffer the consequences of your lies. Dios! Damn you! DAMN YOU!” Rico ranted like a hellfire-and-brimstone TV preacher on a tirade, and he was just getting warmed up. He continued to yell until he was so hoarse his voice was barely a croak. Trembling with rage, he searched for a new release. He snatched a beer bottle from a nearby table and smashed it against the patio. Spinning around, the Gibson caught his eye. The thing symbolized loyalty, trust, friendship, and all that garbage he used to cherish and give so freely to his friends and family. Oh, yeah, and love. Don’t forget love. The biggest crock of all. “This is for you, Max. Yeah, you. You stuck with me through thick and thin. You have no faults. You’re so frigging perfect. No wonder Carmen loves you. You asshole!” Rico stalked toward the guitar, a big cat ready to pounce. The worthless piece of crap, he couldn’t even write decent music with it anymore. Instead, its presence tortured him by reminding him of what he’d lost. A predatory smile crept across his face.

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His prized possession was about to embark on a new career as driftwood. Grabbing the Gibson by its neck, he whirled around. Like a javelin thrower, he sprinted down to water’s edge by the dock. With a triumphant roar and every ounce of strength his body possessed, he hurled the guitar through the air. It slammed against a piling, bounced twice on the dock, and dove into the water. Rico’s chest heaved from the exertion. He gulped for air. His eyes burned. His body shook. He clenched and unclenched his fists, digging his fingernails into his palm. He’d just shown them all. Yes, he had. Hadn’t he? They’d be sorry they’d hurt him. Yes they would. Every one of them. Oh, yeah, he’d gotten his revenge. He caught a glimpse of the Gibson floating in the peaceful cove. The sight of it extinguished his anger as if someone had thrown ice water on him. As he watched, a strong current swept the guitar into the inlet. It bobbed frantically as if calling for help. After several seconds, it disappeared from sight. At first, Rico felt nothing. Numb. Empty. Indifferent. Disconnected. It was gone. Destroyed. One of a kind. Irreplaceable. He'd lost a faithful old friend. His indifference gave way to bitter regret. A profound sadness invaded his senses. Oh, shit. Oh, shit. Dios. What had he done? His stomach clenched and knotted. Sweat broke out on his forehead. His breath came in gasps, strangled in his throat. Frantic, Rico tore into the house. He grabbed the binoculars and ran down to the dock, scanning the inlet for the Gibson. Nothing. It had vanished into thin air in the strong current. He sank to the ground and buried his face in his hands. That guitar had been with him since the beginning. He’d coveted it in the window of that pawn shop everyday. Max had bought it for him, spending every last penny they had. When Rico tried to refuse the expensive gift, Max wouldn’t listen. The guitar was priceless, like their friendship. They called it Rico’s good-luck guitar because things changed for them after that. The breaks started happening, the money started coming in. Years later on the night it all came crashing down, Rico had been on the road. He’d forgotten the guitar at home. Not that he believed in that good luck crap or was superstitious.

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To him, the guitar had symbolized unwavering friendship and faith in the face of insurmountable odds. Now, he’d destroyed it in a fit of temper. What an idiot. Max would never forgive him. Or would he? Max had forgiven him a lot of things over the years. Feeling lost and helpless, Rico did the only thing he could think of doing. He went in search of Mariah in hopes she could exorcise the demons that haunted him. **** Mariah found it hard to focus that afternoon as she rode Sueño. Thinking about Rodrigo ruined her concentration. Eva believed in fate. You meet the people you are supposed to meet in your life if you let it happen. There are no coincidences. Was she meant to be with Rodrigo on this island at this time in her life? Should she accept her destiny, and blindly go wherever fate chose to take her? Mariah loosened Sueño’s reins. She shut her eyes and tried to clear her mind of all these conflicting emotions. Without guidance Sueño wandered aimlessly, swerving around the arena as if he’d had too much tequila. “Hey, Lady, you got a license to drive that thing?” Mariah jumped and almost fell out of the saddle. She grabbed Sueño’s mane and hoisted herself back into sitting position. Her mouth thinned with annoyance until she caught Rodrigo leaning against the rail fence. He looked so absolutely gorgeous that her anger transformed to a welcoming smile. With his ever-present five o’clock shadow and thrift shop clothes, he still defined sex appeal the same way rain defined Seattle. He’d look good in anything. Or nothing. Sueño ambled over to Rodrigo and put his head over the fence so his new buddy could scratch it. “Hi,” Rodrigo said softly, but his smile didn’t reach his eyes. “Hi.” Her smile turned to a frown. “Are you okay?” Anguish and defeat were stamped on his face. For a brief moment, a door to his soul opened, and he let her inside. She saw everything that he was, had been, and could be. His essence, his uniqueness, his joys, and his sorrow caressed her. She

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knew him. It was profound and unexplainable. Before she could make sense of it, the door slammed shut. His devil-may-care mask slipped in place. “Me? Yeah, I’m fine.” His eyes raked her body appreciatively as he slipped into his self-defined role as a rogue. “I had a great time last night.” “So did I.” He wasn’t fine, and she’d glimpsed the depths of his despair. He cleared his throat. “There’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you, bella.” Mariah felt immediately wary. “And that is?” “Would you teach me to ride like you do?” “It takes years to learn to ride like this. What do we have? A month?” Rodrigo just shrugged. “I could teach you enough to be able to stay on.” “Okay, I’ll go with that.” “When do you want to start?” “How about now?” Rodrigo pointed at his cowboy boots. “I’m ready.” A giggle bubbled up inside her. The man could be so darned charming. “Okay, cowboy, hop on.” Rodrigo didn’t wait for a second invitation; he scrambled over the fence to Sueño’s side. He stood there looking at the horse, as if expecting him to kneel like a camel. Mariah concentrated on a field of wildflowers beyond the arena, fighting back a snicker. Sueño tilted his head to regard the dude with interest. He most likely thought it would be a cold day in equine Hades before he knelt down in order for anyone to get on his back. Finally Rodrigo spoke. “Exactly, how do I get on?” Mariah was certain Sueño rolled his eyes. She patted her horse reassuringly. The two of them would suffer through this together. “You’ve never been on a horse?” “Uh, no, never. Remember? I’m a city boy.” “Yeah, but not even a pony ride?” “Nope. I was a poor city boy.” His eyes narrowed. “You’re getting a big kick out of this, aren’t you? Both of you.” His gaze passed over Sueño and back to her. Sueño nipped at a fly on his chest and cocked one hind leg to take the weight off it. Feeling itchy, He rubbed his head on Rodrigo’s t-shirt, leaving a big streak of dirt. Rodrigo pushed him away. Sueño ignored him and leaned his hairy body against the man’s chest.

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“Well, it’s just that...that you’re always so smooth and sure of yourself. It’s nice to see you are human.” His face clouded over, as if she’d struck a nerve. “I am human, Mariah. Don’t ever make the mistake of giving me more credit than that.” “Okay.” She showed him how to get on, while Sueño stood patiently with a longsuffering expression on his face. “Now what?” He grinned down at her like a little boy on his first pony ride, which was pretty much the reality of the situation. Mariah demonstrated how to hold the reins. Of course, he took that opportunity to hold her hands and seduce her with his eyes. The man worked the sex angle every chance her got. His cocky attitude concealed his earlier misery, yet it still lurked in the depths of his brown eyes. He put on a brave act, but he couldn’t hide it from her. Who was this man? What troubled him so deeply? She adjusted his stirrups then led him around the arena at a walk. “Close your eyes, Rigo.” Like a good little boy, he complied. “Feel the movement of the horse in your seat, keep your hips loose. Move your seatbones in rhythm with the horse’s hips. Do you feel it?” “Nope. Could you help me?” She adjusted his hips and thighs to make him more secure in the saddle while he stroked her hair. She tried to ignore his fingers slipping through the long strands. “Keep your weight in your heels. Don’t grip with your thighs or pinch with your knees. That’ll pop you right out of the saddle.” “Maybe I should just pretend like I’m having sex.” “With Sueño?” She refused to take the bait. He frowned as he considered that possibility. “Maybe we should practice this without the horse first, so I can get a better sense of my timing and find my rhythm.” “How are you going to learn to ride without being mounted on a horse?” That statement brought a broad grin from him. She’d walked right into his trap. “Baby, I’d much rather mount you.” “You are incorrigible. And impossible. And...” Mariah sighed with resignation.

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“And what?” he prompted. “Impossibly handsome, charming, and good in bed, too. Trust me on that last one.” “I’ll have to since I don’t plan on experiencing it firsthand.” “Oh, baby, give me a chance to show you what my special talents are. You won’t regret it.” This arrogant pseudo-cowboy needed to be taught a lesson. She’d heard enough sexual innuendos for one day. Thank you. Mariah slapped Sueño on the butt. “Hold on, Latin love God!” she yelled as Sueño took off in a brisk jarring trot around the arena. Rigo held onto his mane for dear life while his crotch was pounded unmercifully against the saddle. Mariah marveled at his unique talent for combining Spanish and English obscenities as he told Sueño exactly what he thought of him. “Shit, Rye, stop him! Please! He’s killing me!” Mariah hated to see an over-confident jerk like him reduced to groveling. “Okay, are you going to behave?” “Yes. Yes, I promise! Stop this equine jack hammer before I’m sterilized!” Just for good measure, she let them take one more turn around the arena then signaled for Sueño to stop. Sueño must have figured this dime store cowboy had hammered his back long enough. He screeched to a halt. The guy needed to learn to ride on a Merry-go-round first. A sensitive guy like Sueño shouldn’t be subjected to his bumbling attempts. He should have dumped him and been done with it. Rodrigo yelped as his crotch was jammed against the front of the saddle. He held his hands up in surrender as Mariah approached. “I’ll be good, no more torture. I want to have kids someday. Dammit, Rye. Are you trying to turn me into a gelding?” Laughter bubbled from Mariah’s lips. On a whim, she reached up and hugged Rodrigo’s waist, pressing her cheek against his belly. Leaning down, he held her tightly to him. His chest rumbled with laughter. Once he put his mind to it, Rodrigo caught on quickly. He understood the need to keep his body’s center of gravity in line with the horse’s center of gravity. He stayed in synch with Sueño’s movement at the walk and did a decent job of steering by the time the first lesson ended. Sueño, on the other hand, considered entire ordeal boring and yawned repeatedly. He wondered when the pony ride was going to end.

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“You’re not bad, cowboy,” Mariah told him after he dismounted, and they put Sueño away. “Not bad at all.” Rodrigo grinned back. “I could show you a few things I’m much better at.” Without warning, he pulled Mariah into his arms and gave her one of those deep, wet kisses she was growing to love so much. “You are so adorable,” she blurted out. This man wanted to have a little vacation fling, but she’d jumped off the cliff into the raging waters below not caring if she drowned. She was in over her head and sinking fast. **** Rico stared at Mariah. Her eyes glowed with passion and something else. He knew that look. No, Mariah. Don’t think that. Don’t. I can’t give you anything but sex. That’s all. Let’s keep it simple. Don’t fall for me. I’m no good for you. Hell, I’m no good for myself. His raw emotions ran too close to the surface. Guilt and frustration drove him over the edge. He captured her chin in his large hand. His lips devoured hers without any concern for her comfort. His control disintegrated. He pinned her against a stall door and took possession of her with a hungry intent. Urgency and desperation ate at him from the inside, as he used her to purge Carmen’s stamp on his very soul. Instead of fighting him off or retreating, she matched his desperate passion with her own aching need. Was she driving out her own demons? Her fingers dug into his thick hair, pulling him closer. Their mouths melded together, tongues wildly mating as their breath intermingled. He sucked her tongue into his mouth then nipped at her lips until they were swollen and tender. His mouth traveled across her face, leaving a trail of wet kisses. She kissed his forehead and his eyelids while running her fingers through his unruly hair. His hips moved against hers in an instinctive rhythm. He fastened his teeth on her neck, nipping hard enough that she cried out. He paid no attention. Marking her, he craved something that was his and his, alone. She bit at his earlobe, extracting her revenge and driving him insane. Rico wanted this woman in the worst way. Her wet mouth, full lips, and soft curves brought his body to a fever pitch. He crushed her against him, forcing her to feel the extent of his need. Cradling her butt in his hands, he

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lifted her into the air and sat her on top of a saddle rack. She wrapped her long legs around his waist to keep her balance as he ground his crotch against hers. His body burned hot with desire. He hadn’t experienced this intensity, power, and depth of emotions in a very long time. He fought the feeling, but failed miserably, as she ignited long-dead passions. She made him forget everything else; including the torch he carried for Carmen. “Rigo, I want to help you. Let me help you,” she whispered breathlessly, her mouth against his neck. She wanted to help him? Panting, he pulled away, nagged by a thread of decency. It was just his luck that his conscience decided to make an appearance just when he was about to get lucky. He couldn’t take her for the first time perched on a saddle rack. She deserved better than that. He laid his head on her shoulder, his chest heaving, his brain churning, his cock throbbing. Taking deep breaths, he attempted to regain some semblance of control. Her fingers gently stroked the back of his neck and her long legs gripped his waist. “Please.” She teased him with her hips. “No, not like this. We can’t.” She’d never know what those words cost him. He extracted himself from her embrace. Lifting her off the saddle rack, he set her feet firmly on the floor. This woman captivated him, intrigued him, and turned him on. She challenged his seductive talents, and he loved a good challenge. He had to keep it purely physical so no one got hurt when it ended. Inevitably, it would end because the heartache that came from caring about someone wasn’t worth it. If only he could keep his head in charge. Big or little, it didn’t matter which one, as long as his heart stayed out of it. Yeah, he had oceanfront property in Arizona, too.

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Chapter 7 The Home-Cooked Meal On a foolish whim, Mariah invited Rodrigo to dinner that night. She regretted the invitation the moment the words escaped her mouth. Stupid. Stupid. Stupid. What was she thinking to invite temptation to her house? She might as well open the door stark-raving naked, too. Either way the man would interpret this as an invitation to stay the night. She pictured him standing on her front porch with a toothbrush in one hand and clean underwear in the other. Of course, he’d be grinning that dangerously irresistible grin. Even worse, she couldn’t cook to save her soul. Like a lamb being led to slaughter, Rodrigo had no idea what he was getting himself into. Did she want to kill the man or sleep with him? Eating her cooking had brought down many a strong stomach. Sleeping with her wouldn’t exactly impress Rodrigo either if Warren was any judge. After all, if she’d burned up the sheets with her love-making expertise, Warren wouldn’t have felt the need to look elsewhere. She took some solace in that kiss earlier today. Her inexperience had held its own against his experience. He’d been tuned in and turned on. The intensity of it should have frightened her. Yet deep down, Rodrigo would never hurt her, not physically. Instead he drove her wild with a craving to know him in ways she’d never wanted to know a man, while his possessive mouth heated her from the inside out. She’d matched his passion touch for touch, mouth against mouth, and tongue to tongue. He brought it out in her as naturally as breathing. What would sleeping with him be like? Bare skin, straining bodies, wet sheets. She leaned her head against the cupboard door. She’d better stop this right now, or she’d be answering the door in her birthday suit. That would

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be one way to distract him from her atrocious cooking. Sighing, she grabbed the phone book and looked for somewhere to order takeout. Mariah glanced at the clock. She’d daydreamed way too long. There wasn't time to drive anywhere to get takeout and delivery on the island wasn’t an option. Frantically, she dug through her cupboards and refrigerator. Within five minutes she assembled a small assortment of ingredients on the kitchen counter. She smiled to herself. She could do this. She found a cookbook and opened it to the spaghetti page. She stuck a couple baked potatoes in the microwave and set it for twenty minutes. So what if it wasn’t gourmet cuisine. Rodrigo didn’t seem to be a picky eater. **** The prospect of a home-cooked dinner appealed to Rico. If Mariah cooked half as good as she looked, it’d be one heck of a meal. And dessert. He’d volunteered to bring dessert. Maybe he should purchase a little chocolate sauce. Ice cream wouldn’t be necessary, not where he planned on putting that chocolate sauce. He packed a few things needed for an overnight stay in a small bag, making sure he included a few boxes of condoms, checking the box for quantity and smiled. Sí, that should do the trick. Twenty minutes later, Rico wandered around Mariah’s house while she finished dinner. Her tastefully decorated living room contained several pieces of antique oak mission-style furniture. French doors and large windows took advantage of a spectacular view of several small islands and beyond to San Juan Channel. Colorful lawn furniture sat on the deck. He caught sight of something familiar stuck in a bookcase. Glancing over his shoulder to make sure she wasn’t watching, he removed his Yankees baseball cap from its hiding place. Grinning with satisfaction, he shoved it in his coat pocket. A half-dozen framed magazine covers graced one wall. Each cover displayed a home or room designed by Mariah. He’d known she was talented, but he hadn’t realized how talented. Dinner was another story altogether. Mariah placed a plate in front of him with a flourish. Rico’s eyes grew big. Dios. He’d assumed she cooked

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as well as she did everything else. He assumed wrong. It was questionable whether or not the substances on his plate were even edible. Rico shuddered and picked up his fork. Mariah hovered behind him, wringing her hands, and waiting for him to take the first bite. He put the fork down and stalled for time by taking a sip of wine. Controlling his rebellious stomach, he gripped the fork and tentatively inspected the objects lolling around on her good china. At least none of them moved when he jabbed them. Like a game show contestant searching for answers, he attempted to discover the mystery foods' identity. Rico’s sister had learned to cook by using him as her guinea pig. To keep from starving, he’d developed a cast iron stomach and could eat anything. Tonight, his stomach may have met its match. Canned tomato sauce covered a glob of overcooked spaghetti. A slice of American cheese garnished it instead of grated Parmesan cheese. The garlic bread provided an excellent source of charcoal if a person had use for such an item. Maybe he could scratch out a help message on the table top with it. Limp, green stems appeared to be the remains of asparagus boiled to mush. A once fat Idaho potato was a sad, wrinkled reflection of its former self. Whoever married this woman would be wise to confine her to the bedroom and lock her away from the pots and pans, he decided, feeling smugly chauvinistic. Tons of babies would keep her out of the kitchen and in his arms. Rico recovered from that vision with a start. Shit, not his arms and especially not the baby part. Mariah toyed with the food on her plate, but Rico bravely slogged through the meal with his stomach intact. Barely. He’d have to thank his sister for all those years of eating her cooking, and his guru for all that mind-over-matter stuff. After dinner they went outside and sat in the porch swing on the deck. A half moon shone across the water as the waves lapped gently on the rocks and sand below. Mariah laid her head on his shoulder and sighed. Rico put his arm around her and drew her closer, relishing the warmth and comfort he gained from her. After his screwy day, he needed it. She soothed him. Mariah inclined her head to look up at him. She ran her hand across his cheek then placed it on his shoulder. “Rigo, if you could do anything in the world, what would it be?”

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“I did it.” Rico tensed and frowned at her. This was a dangerous line of questioning, especially after this morning’s disaster. She must have sensed his discomfort, but she didn’t back down. She tried to be flippant instead. “Be careful what you wish for, you just might get it?” “Yeah, you got that right and then some.” He refused to meet her eyes and toyed with a lock of her hair. “It wasn’t what you thought it would be?” “No, it wasn’t. I mean, at first when it was new, and I was on this high, it was great. Later, it wasn’t anything like I imagined. I guess I got bitter and disillusioned.” “Do you love your job now?” “Do you love yours?” “Yes, I do. I love designing for people, trying to figure out just what suits their needs and personalities. And you?” “I’m good at what I do.” “But do you love it?” Damn, she was nosy. “It’s alright, but it doesn’t set me on fire.” “Then you aren’t doing the thing that makes your soul sing.” “Funny you should choose those words.” She scrutinized him for a long time. “It’s strange. You give away so little of your life, yet sometimes I feel as if I know you as well as I know myself. Why is that?” “I don’t know. It just is. I don’t want to question it. At times I feel the same about you, Rye.” “Tell me why you hurt so much.” She leaned toward him and clutched both of his large hands in her small ones. “I could ask the same of you.” His dark eyes held her in a steady, unwavering gaze. Two could play this game. “Yes, you could. You first.” She met the challenge in his eyes. He sighed with resignation. He didn’t want to talk about this, but she was as stubborn as he was. Besides, the toll taken by the day’s events wore down his ability to resist. “What do you want to know?” “For starters, tell me about growing up.” “My mother raised my younger sister and me pretty much on her own. My father left her when I was eight, traded her in on a younger model.”

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Rico’s lip curled in disgust. “We left Puerto Rico for San Diego. She worked her ass off at two jobs. She was a maid for a wealthy family during the day and cleaned a mall at night with no help from my father. I swore someday I would make enough money so she would never have to work again.” “And your father? Do you see him?” “I didn’t for years. He started coming around when I was sixteen, wanting to be my amigo. I barely tolerated him back then. He’s on his twelfth wife now, all young. He can’t keep his pants zipped.” Rico’s eyes narrowed, reading too much into her concerned expression. “I know what you’re thinking. I’m nothing like my father. I don’t rob the cradle, and I don’t change women like I change clothes. I leave that to my father and my brother.” “Rodrigo, I wasn’t comparing the two of you.” She squeezed his hand. Her touch did odd things to him, like give him strength. “Yeah, thanks.” He marveled at how small her hand looked in his. “I worked when I wasn’t in school. So did my sister. It was tough, but we had each other. My dad had his harem of near-teenagers.” He scowled; he didn’t want to talk about any of this anymore. “Your turn, deal’s a deal.” She took a deep breath. “My dad was a heart surgeon at the University of Washington Hospital. He pioneered some revolutionary methods that have saved thousands of lives. He was a wonderful man with a great sense of humor. He devoted his life to his work and his family. Even as busy as he was, he always found time for us. My mom, she used to be a buyer for Nordstrom.” “Clothes?” “Uh huh.” “Then you come by it honestly.” Mariah blushed and looked away, embarrassed, “Thank you. I used to be a shopaholic. I still have stuff in my closet I've never worn.” She looked down at the dress she wore. “Like this. My mother and I could shop for hours and spends tons of money. Now, I just stay away from Nordstroms.” She laughed. She fiddled with a button on his shirt. “My mom's job took her away from home too much, so she quit, but being a housewife wasn't her thing. She started doing volunteer work. She was an advocate for homeless senior

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citizens and for handicapped kids, did a lot of lobbying and fund-raising. She even spoke to the Senate in Washington DC. My mother could never sit still for long. She had this great sense of social conscience.” Mariah smiled wistfully. “One time she enlisted the entire Seattle Sonics basketball team to help her with a fund raiser. Every one of them participated. Those huge guys did anything she asked. They didn’t dare cross her. She could be formidable when she was on a mission. That’s what Dad and I called them, her missions.” “Are you an only child?” She smiled a sad smile. “Yes.” “What happened to your parents, Rye?” He’d been wanting, yet dreading, to ask that question for a long time. She always referred to her parents in the past tense. “Eight years ago, they were flying over the mountains to go to a football game. There was a freak storm. Dad’s plane crashed before they ever got there. Even now when something really good or really bad happens to me, I find myself reaching for the phone to call them so I can share it with them. Then it hits me.” She swallowed but stumbled on. “There I stand, holding the phone in my hand, remembering they aren’t there to call anymore.” Mariah’s voice choked and tears ran down her face. “I’m sorry. Even after all this time it hurts so much.” Rico felt like an insensitive ass whining about his family. At least he still had one. She’d lost both of her parents. He pulled her closer as she buried her face in his chest. He held her, stroked her hair, and whispered words of comfort in Spanish. He started singing an old lullaby. He felt better hearing it. He hoped she did, too. He rocked her back and forth in the porch swing. She sobbed quietly in his arms, soaking his shirt with her tears. Only a true ass would take advantage of her right now. In her vulnerable state, she wouldn’t resist. Still, he couldn’t do it, much as he’d love to get between the sheets with her. After a while she grew quiet in his arms. He gazed down at her. Tears streaked her pretty face and her makeup had run, leaving dark circles under her eyes. He vowed to keep her away from mirrors. “What was that you were singing? It was beautiful.” Her voice sounded raw.

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He smiled tenderly at her. “It’s an Irish lullaby my mother used to sing to me. When she finished her night job, she tiptoed into my room to make sure I was alright. She’d sing it to me every night. No matter how dead asleep I was, I always knew when she was there.” Mariah giggled and gave him a teary smile, “Irish?” “Yeah, my mother’s Irish along with who knows what else. You know, the great American melting pot.” “Really? So you might have an Irish temper not a Latin temper?” She bantered with him. “Yeah, probably about half and half.” “Your mother must love you very much.” “Yeah, she does.” “Do you see her often?” “Unfortunately, no. She’s remarried and lives in Italy. I don’t get to see her nearly as much as I’d like.” “How about your father?” “We run the business together. Actually, I run the business, and he tries to run it into the ground. He has the opposite of the Midas touch, everything he touches turns to shit.” Mariah stifled a laugh. “You mentioned a brother. Does he work for you, too?” “My brother? No.” He stiffened. “Oh, Rodrigo. Why?” “He’s a little shit. He betrayed me. Tried to ruin me to further his career.” He looked away from her, tense and irritated. “But you miss him.” “Bull.” “I can see it in your eyes.” “I want nothing to do with him.” “Yes, you do. You need to reconcile with him. Life’s too short. Take it from someone who knows.” She ran her fingers across his stubble, shaking her head. “You need to forgive him for whatever he did. You could wake up one morning and find out he’s not there anymore.” Rico shrugged and shifted his body. This woman couldn't be for real. She really subscribe to all that forgiveness crap. A lone tear trickled down

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her face. He wiped it away with his thumb. “Are you alright?” He wondered if her tears were for him or for her lost family. Mariah sat up straighter, pulling away from him. “I’m fine. I’m sorry. I don’t know what got into me. I’m not usually this emotional.” “You don’t have to apologize to me, bella. I didn’t mind.” “You’re a nice man, Rodrigo Perez.” “Thank you.” Coming from her that was the ultimate compliment, not that he’d earned it. That box of condoms wasn’t going to see any action tonight. **** Rico stared out the window into the cove below. He wandered around the big house, lonely and out of sorts. For over two weeks, he’d spent his evenings with Mariah. She’d left for Seattle this morning and wouldn’t be back until tomorrow. She hoped to purchase some rare antiques for a client at an estate sale. Things were heating up between them. It wouldn’t take much more persuasion on his part to take their relationship to the next level. The anticipation was almost more than he could handle. He needed to get laid before she sent him to an early grave. The woman teased and tormented him, took him to the edge, then said stop. He didn’t think she meant to be such a tease, but it didn’t make it any easier on him. She panicked at a certain point and couldn’t go through with it. The woman was full of contradictions, which he found intriguing. Typical Gemini, he thought. She was shy, yet bold. She could be the most stubborn woman at times and at others, reasonable and cooperative. She was energetic and bubbly or quiet and reflective. She could enjoy the simplest things, laugh at the corniest jokes; and cry over a sappy movie. He truly enjoyed her company, her ready smile, and her quick wit. His cell phone rang. He took it outside and slumped in a deck chair. Damn, it was Angel again. “Hi, Angel, what’s up?” He attempted to keep his voice light so she wouldn’t try to psychoanalyze why he sounded depressed. “Hola, big brother. What’s new with your horse dancer?” Rico laughed in spite of his sour mood. “She’s teaching me to ride.”

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“You? Ride a horse? Now that I’d like to see.” “I’m good at it. She says I’m a natural. I've even graduated to grooming and saddling my own horse. Not bad for a gringo.” “You, the consummate city boy, on a horse? I could sell tickets to that.” “I doubt anyone would waste money on me.” “Rico, you must get beyond your self-pity. It does get old.” “You must get beyond your lecturing unless you want to work for a university.” Unaffected, she laughed. “So where is she tonight?” “She had to go to Seattle today for an estate sale. She’ll be back tomorrow.” “So things are going well?” “Yeah, great.” Using that sixth sense that overbearing sisters possessed, Angel read his mind. She erupted into peals of laughter. “Oh my God, Rico! You haven’t gotten her in the sack yet, have you?” Rico growled under his breath in Spanish which made Angel squeal with delight. It wasn’t like he hadn’t tried. They’d steamed up their share of windows every night on his SUV, but she never invited him in when he brought her home. Instead, she left him sitting in his SUV with a raging hard-on, while she escaped to the safety of her house. It drove him crazy. Yet, he kept going back for more. Angel's wicked laughter jerked him back to the present. “You haven’t gotten any! That’s great, absolutely great. She’s my kind of woman. Hold out, honey, don’t give him what he wants.” “Thanks, Angel. I’ll be sure to introduce the two of you the next chance I get so you can give her more useful advice. Did you call to give me shit, or did you have some other purpose?” Angel cleared her throat as she attempted to contain her mirth. “Yes, I did. I wanted to be the first to congratulate you! I hear you’re going to be a godfather.” “Uh, yeah.” Leave it to Angel to rip open old, raw wounds. “Rico, you don’t sound too happy about Carmen’s pregnancy.” “Of course, I’m happy. I’m thrilled.” “You can't still be hooked on her?” “It’s over between us. It has been for a long while.”

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He heard her exasperated sigh. “Grow up, Rico. You’ve made your romance with Carmen into something it never was. Your imagination is better than reality.” Angel saw through every lie he’d ever attempted to tell. “Carmen and I had something special.” Hell, almost sacred. “Ha. You two fought like cats and dogs. Maybe the sex was special. I can’t vouch for that, but you need more than sex to build a long-term relationship. Your relationship gave the tabloids fodder for years.” “We fought because the making up was so much fun.” “You and Carmen were like oil and water. Oh, yeah, when someone sets fire to oil on water, it burns alright, but only on the surface. Underneath, there’s nothing. No substance to your relationship. Carmen wasn’t the right woman for you. You weren’t the right man for her. When will you wake up and see that?” Rico admitted nothing, not to Angel and not to himself. His workaholic habits had split them in two. Carmen hated his long hours and the lack of privacy in their lives. The stress took its toll on an already rocky relationship until she cracked under the pressure, told him she didn’t love him, and ran away. At first, he didn’t believe it. She’d be back, she always came back. That time he was wrong. He hadn’t counted Max into the equation. “Rico, are you listening to me?” “Do I have a choice?” “No. You were addicted to your music, now you’re addicted to that import business.” “If I don’t keep one step ahead of Eduardo and his disastrous deals, we’ll all end up in the poorhouse.” “Rico, you love to work. It’s something you think you can control. Unlike your personal life.” “My personal life is just fine. Couldn’t be better.” Rico heard his sister breathe deeply. Uh oh, now he’d done it. She was bringing out the big guns. “Okay, Rico. I’m tired of coddling you. I’m going to tell you some things I know you don’t want to hear.” “Spare me. I don’t need it.” “You’re going to listen anyway. If you hang up on me, I’ll hunt you down.” Rico groaned.

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“Carmen is a symptom of the problem. She’s not the problem. You know that. It’s just easier to focus on her than it is to fix what’s really ailing you.” “And what might that be, Dr. Freud?” Rico asked sarcastically. “You. You feel stilted, smothered, forced into a box. Trapped.” “I am trapped by my fucking family, by my fucking past, and by my fucking future!” His infamous temper bubbled on the surface, threatening to boil over. She’d hit a nerve, a big one. “Then do something about it. Tell those worthless free-loading relatives of ours to find jobs. Tell Dad to go make his own way in the world.” “You expect me to kick them out on the streets. How could I do that to them?” “What about what they do to you? What about your creativity, your passion, your soul? I watch you die a little each day, and I cry for the man you were.” “Really? Would that be the man on drugs? The man that spent a good portion of his day drunk or high?” “You know what I mean. What happened to Rico? What about the artist, the songwriter? What happened to the guy who wrote songs that made people laugh and cry and feel? Songs with real meaning.” “I haven’t written any songs in a long time.” “You gave up.” “I can't find the inspiration anymore.” “Rico, forget about Carmen. Dig deeper than that. Find out who you really are because you aren’t the person you imagine yourself to be.” “I don’t know how to do that.” He felt defeated and helpless. “What about owning your own record label? You’ve always dreamed of doing that.” “That’s ridiculous. I don’t have the time to run a recording company, let alone the resources to start one.” “Excuses.” Angelina snorted. “You’re scared. You’d rather be miserable than take risks. Carmen is a classic example of that. Rather than find a more appropriate girlfriend, you kept going back to the same one over and over, even though it obviously didn’t work the first time or the second time or the third...”

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Rico pushed the End button on his cell phone and turned off the power switch. He’d heard enough. Let her hunt him down if she wanted.

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Chapter 8 The Gift The Washington State ferry crossed Rosario Strait bound for the San Juans via Thatcher Pass. Mariah took a seat at an empty booth by the window and concentrated on balancing her checkbook. She hated that particular chore, but she needed to assess the havoc wreaked upon her bank account by this little trip to Seattle. If only she’d stayed away from Nordstroms. The small mountain of packages in the trunk of her car attested to her whirlwind affair with Calvin, Giorgio, and Christian. Besides, everything had been on sale, and she couldn’t wait to see Rico wearing the shirt she’d purchased. With an exasperated sigh, she stared at the figures in her checkbook. She’d have to transfer money from her depleted savings account to cover some of those checks. She’d work her fanny off next week and hope the Anderson family paid her when she presented them with the bill. Frugal was not in Mariah's vocabulary. She had good intentions to save money, but then something in a store window would catch her eye, or she'd find a bargain on Ebay. She'd depleted the money she'd gotten from her parents' estate, not that there'd been much as the bulk went to the charity. The taxes on all this waterfront acreage were killing her, not to mention the upkeep on the horse farm. She feared her days of high credit ratings were numbered. She needed to find some new clients and sell a few horses. That would hold the wolves at bay for a while longer. To make things worse, her aunt had left the farm in a precarious financial state. Dear Aunt Rose never paid a bill unless the creditors bit at her heels. She couldn’t be bothered with such insignificant drivel. Now Mariah was left to deal with the fallout.

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Thinking about money depressed her. She picked up an old copy of People magazine someone had left on the table. Flipping through it, she paused at an article titled, “Where are they now?” A picture of Rico Sanchez caught her eye. Her heart caught in her throat. Her lungs forgot to take in air. Those eyes. Those expressive brown eyes. She shook her head and stared again. It couldn't be. She squeezed her eyes shut and attempted to calm her churning stomach. Getting hold of herself, she opened her eyes. She looked at the picture again. Her talent for denial shifted into overdrive. Rodrigo looked like Rico Sanchez. So what? Lots of people looked like celebrities. It didn’t mean anything. This was her time with him, and she was going to make the best of it. If he was someone other than he pretended to be, she didn’t want to know. It was too late now, and it wasn’t going to change how she felt about him. She’d ride this ride wherever it took her and to heck with the rest of the world. She tossed the magazine in a nearby wastebasket, mustered up her Scarlett mind-set, and promised herself she wouldn’t cross that bridge again. In fact, she wouldn’t even think about it tomorrow. **** “When do you expect Mariah back?” Eva worked on the knots in Rico's shoulders. He lay naked on his stomach. A white towel covered his butt. “This afternoon. She missed the morning ferry.” He turned his head sideways on the pillow to watch Eva out of the corner of his eye. Eva’s professional demeanor surprised him, as did her great hands. He’d been worked on by the best. She could have held her own with any one of them. Her small hands were strong and competent. Unfortunately, his tight muscles resisted her attempts to relax them. He’d been like this for too long. He shut his eyes and let her do her job. Every once in a while, she’d hit a particularly tender spot, and he’d groan. “She was shopping.”

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“I’ll bet she was.” A slow smile spread across Rico’s face as he imagined her loaded down with shopping bags. “We’re boating to Roche Harbor tomorrow for an early dinner. I’m borrowing Max’s yacht. She doesn’t know it yet. It’s a surprise.” “Good. You must watch for the Orca whales.” Rico recognized that tone. Eva was about to share some psychic revelation. “Really? Why?” “They’re the guardians of your soul.” She couldn’t see him roll his eyes. “I don’t think I need an animal to protect my soul.” “You’ll see. They hold special meaning to you.” She pinched a nerve and he stiffened. “They can help you find what you’ve lost.” “I didn’t lose anything.” He bristled like a porcupine. She didn’t respond, which suited him just fine. The woman was as loony as they came. “How are the riding lessons going? Mariah says you’ve caught on quickly.” “I think I have. I’m lucky that I’m coordinated, but the credit really goes to Mariah. She’s great at explaining things. Very patient.” “Mariah says horses are the best teachers.” “Yeah, Sueño’s been great, too. He puts up with all of it. I think he actually likes me.” “Sueño appreciates genuine people. He senses there’s something good between the two of you, and he approves of it.” “You’ve had a conversation with Sueño?” He wondered why he was surprised. “Of course. Several, really,” Eva said with that tolerant voice she adopted whenever she talked to neophytes. “He’s very devoted to Mariah. He would do anything for her.” “You read animals’ minds?” Rico struggled to keep the skepticism out of his voice. Eva ignored his cynicism and continued patiently. “Yes, to a point. Horses don’t send thoughts or words. They send images, pictures of what they want to communicate to me. To be open to their images, I clear my mind then I decipher their mental pictures. Obviously, my messages to them have to be in images also. As humans, we have too much interference going

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on in our minds. Animals find that disturbing and distracting. When I first communicate with them they are often reluctant to let me in until they trust my images. Do you have animals?” “Dogs. My sister takes care of them when I’m gone.” Of course, his dogs barely recognized him anymore, another drawback of his workaholic lifestyle. “I can communicate with them sometime if you want.” “Thanks for the offer. Next time I want to find out what kind of dog food to buy, I’ll give you a call.” “You’re humoring me.” Rico pressed his face into the pillow and said nothing. “Mariah has the gift, too, you know. She just doesn’t trust it yet. That’s why she rides as if she’s a part of the horse. She’s perceptive, very intuitive.” Rico didn’t have a reply for that, so he continued to keep his mouth shut. “You’re missing something. You threw it away.” “Huh?” What the hell was this wacko woman talking about now? Surely not the Gibson guitar? The saltwater had ruined it long ago, wherever it was. “It’ll come back to you if you make the right decisions.” “Uh, Okay. Great. I’ll look forward to it.” This whole conversation creeped him out. “You’re holding your tension in your shoulders.” Eva noted as she worked on his shoulders and back. Rico winced as she kneaded a particularly deep knot. “You work out.” “Sí, I try to every day.” “It’s obvious.” “Thanks, I think.” “A portion of your tension is sexual. The remainder caused by frustration with your life. We both know who frustrates you sexually. Beyond that, what else causes you such intense frustration?” “You, for one.” “You haven't consummated your relationship with Mariah.” “You tell me, you're the psychic.” “You’re close.” Eva was unperturbed by his annoyance. “What makes you think I’m close?”

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“Because of the way you two are together.” “There’s something wrong. I just don’t know what. Every time we get to a certain point, she freezes up and stops me. It’s so abrupt, it’s weird. Like she’s really turned on then she just turns off, like a light switch.” He couldn’t believe he was telling this woman intimate details about his love life. “Have you talked to her about it?” “She says she needs time. She’s afraid, but sometimes I think she’s afraid of herself. She’s a beautiful woman, yet she doesn’t know it.” “She’s only had one lover. It was not a good experience.” “I figured it was something like that. Did he hurt her?” Rico’s hands tightened into fists. “Relax, Rodrigo. Breathe. Let go.” Eva sighed. “What about this guy?” “Warren, her ex-fiancé, was not a sympathetic lover. As far as the details, she needs to tell you that in her own time. You’re a classic Leo.” Eva smoothly changed the subject as she worked on the backs of his calves. “I don't believe in that stuff.” “You should. You would gain great insights into yourself and others. You have that Leo stubborn pride and an overwhelming need to control your life, be the king of your own jungle.” “Whatever.” He hated being psychoanalyzed, especially by an amateur. He shut his eyes and shut her out, now if she'd only shut up. Rico enjoyed ten minutes of blissful silence. He was drifting off when she chose to jerk him back to reality. “I know your true identity.” “Clark Kent?” “You are being evasive.” Rico let out a long breath. “I know you know. I could tell by the way you looked at me the first time we met. How did you figure it out?” “It was the eyes. I was a fan. Actually, I’m surprised Mariah hasn’t figured it out.” “Are you going to tell her?” “No, I’m not. I’ll leave that up to you. Your deception could end your relationship before it starts.”

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“Are you sure?” His stomach sank to the floor. He didn't want to hear this. “Absolutely. You’ve been lying to her. That’s the worst thing you could do. She’s been there before with a man. When she finds out, she may refuse to see you. Mariah has mastered self-protection. She’s lost enough people in her life that it’s become a defense against getting hurt too deeply. She doesn’t let people in easily. You slipped past her guard.” “I’m stubborn and persistent.” Rico frowned as thoughts swirled around in his head. “I never meant to lie to her. It’s just that people treat me so differently when they know who I am. I wanted to be liked or disliked for me, for the person inside.” “Really? And who is that person?” Rico ignored her. Even if he knew the answer, he wouldn’t have told her. “Why didn’t you defend yourself? Why did you let the press drag you through the mud?” “How can you stop them? Once they get wind of a juicy story, they go after it like rabid dogs. I did it to myself.” “How are you handling it now?” “Me? I'm doing okay. I'm clean. No drugs. I don't party or stay out late. I'm actually quite boring. I hated that life. I hated the fishbowl. I didn’t want to be gone so much, hated living in hotels all the time. What I really wanted was to devote my time to writing songs, not singing or performing, but everyone depended on me. I couldn't let them down.” “Everyone?” “My family, father, aunts, uncles, cousins. I take care of them. No relative of mine will ever live in poverty if I can prevent it.” “That's a noble, but difficult promise to make.” “I do okay.” She didn't believe him. “You are not responsible for them. You've done enough.” “That's my business.” “You haven’t been able to write any songs.” How did she figure that out? He must’ve given her some subtle clue. “Not yet, but I will.” “You have to find inner peace in order to set your creative side free.”

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“Are you almost done?” He’d heard enough. “Yes, almost. What do you want from Mariah?” “Entertainment and companionship. Nothing more.” Irritation ran through him, irritation with this prying woman and irritation with himself for answering her questions. “Hmmm.” “Aren’t you worried that I’m going to hurt her?” he accused, hoping to push her buttons. “You are going to hurt her,” Eva predicted in her superior, all-knowing voice. “You’ve convinced yourself that you aren’t looking for a lasting relationship. You intend to love her and leave her.” Rico snorted at this woman’s presumptuous attitude. No wonder she irritated Mariah at times. “And that doesn’t bother you? You are her friend.” “Mariah plays it too safe, Rico. Even though I don’t want to see her hurt, sometimes it’s the painful things in life that force us to grow, to become better people, to reach our potential. She’s strong, and she’s a survivor.” “What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger?” Cynicism crept into his voice. “Something like that. Your paths were meant to cross. It is her fate and yours. You need this experience with her, Rico. The most important things in life come with a very high price—your heart. How much are you willing to risk? How much are you willing to compromise? What do you really want out of the rest of your life? Right now, you’re frustrated because you’re not doing what you want to do. A Leo, first and foremost, needs to be in control. You’re at a crossroad. The decisions you make affect the rest of your life. Some may be reversible, some may not.” “I don’t want a serious relationship. Women want more than I am willing to give. Besides, my business consumes my life. After my job, I don’t have anything left for a woman.” “Rico, right now, you don’t have anything left in you for you.” Rico met her revelations with stone-cold silence. “She isn’t the love of your life. You’re deluding yourself about her.” “Huh?” He started to roll over in order to confront her. With surprising strength, Eva pushed him back down on the table. “What are you talking about?” His temper hovered between irritation and all-out fury. “Carmen.”

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“Oh, God. Why did you have to bring her into this conversation?” He buried his face in the pillow, praying this annoying woman would shut up. “It’s necessary to help you on your road to self-exploration.” “Look, Eva. I’ll explore my life at my own pace. I don’t need you to help me. As for my relationship with Carmen, it’s over. We’re just friends. I’ve come to terms with my place in her life. And my career, everything is fine. It couldn’t be better. I love what I do.” Rico’s words sounded hollow, even to him. He wasn’t fooling Eva either. “You don’t have to convince me. You have to convince yourself. I’m not the one who has to live your life.” **** “Rigo, we’re in five feet of water,” Mariah consulted the GPS and nautical chart. “You’re out of the channel and too close to that sandbar. Are you sure you've done this before?” She held her breath as Rodrigo piloted the small yacht through the narrow passage. She suspected it wasn’t skill but dumb luck that kept him from hitting a rock or running them aground. “Of course, I have. I crewed on yachts three times bigger than this when I was a teenager in Los Angeles. How long is this? Fifty feet?” “It’s a 48-foot Tollycraft.” Rodrigo stared at her, “How do you know that?” “I grew up with boats. My dad boated for relaxation. Our last one was a Tolly. They were some of the best boats made in the Northwest. I boated all over these waters and Puget Sound in one bigger than this.” “Great, you’ll make a good first mate.” “Admiral,” Mariah corrected. “You’re sure Max doesn’t mind you taking his boat out?” “Rye, quit worrying. He doesn’t care. He’s offered it to me on several occasions. Besides, this is just a day trip to Roche Harbor. What is it, about an hour away?” “If you pilot a boat like you drive that SUV, it’ll be about fifteen minutes if we don’t hit something and sink.” Taking no offense, Rodrigo laughed. “Hey, we’ll have an early dinner and be back before dark.” An hour later, they pulled into Roche Harbor on San Juan Island.

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Mariah stood on the bow, ready to hand their dock lines to a smiling dock boy standing on the end of the finger pier. A stiff gust of wind blew across the water and caught the large boat. Rodrigo seemed oblivious and didn’t compensate for it. They were coming in too fast. Mariah held her breath and gripped the side railing on the boat’s bow. In an attempt to escape the fiberglass monstrosity bearing down on him, the dock boy started backing up. The poor kid fell backwards into the frigid water. The boat shuddered as Rodrigo rammed all 42,000 pounds into the dock. Looking down, Mariah expected to see the dock splintered into a million pieces. Dented and a little lopsided, it still floated. Obviously, the dock was stronger than her stomach. The no-longer friendly dock boy sputtered and cursed as he heaved himself out of the water. Without a word, he grabbed the line she handed him. “It’s a lovely day, isn’t it?” She bestowed her most radiant smile on him. It didn't work. The dock boy grumbled something unintelligible. His sodden clothes weighed him down. Salt water ran off his body and puddled in a pool at his feet. Rodrigo leaped down the stairs from the flying bridge onto the dock. “Hey, man, I’m sorry. I’m not used to this boat. You okay?” He reached in his pocket and pulled out his wallet. Mariah couldn’t see what kind of bill he handed the kid, but it improved the kid’s attitude 100 percent. Her sexy Latin finished tying off the boat as she stepped onto the dock. Surreptitiously, she double-checked his tie job. “I am as experienced at piloting boats as I am making love.” “If you're trying to impress me, it's not working. You rammed into that dock at full speed. What does that say about your love-making ability?” Unaffected, Rodrigo moved to stand beside her. He pulled her close to him and whispered in her ear. “If that’s the way you like it, amor, I can accommodate.” He hooked a finger on the waistband of her shorts and stroked her bare skin. Mariah sobered. “I don’t know how I like it.” Or even if I like it. Rodrigo placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “You’d like it with me. I’d make sure of that.” His dark eyes bored into hers, full of erotic promises and fantasies. “You don’t understand.”

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“Try me.” He slid the rest of his fingers under the waistband of her lowriding shorts and stroked the skin between her hip and belly button. Mariah attempted to pull away, but he fastened her to his side with one strong arm. “You know I’m going to have you. It’s only a matter of time.” His voice dipped to a husky rasp that made her heart thump and other parts of her body react in inappropriate ways. “Maybe you don’t have that much time.” “I’ll make the time. It’ll be worth it.” Mariah’s heart sank. Essentially, he’d just told her that as soon as he got what he wanted, he’d be gone. “I couldn’t please you.” “Let’s worry about you first. Looking at your naked body spread out on silk sheets would be more than enough to please me.” He bent down and touched his lips to hers, slipping his tongue inside her mouth. Wrapping her arms around his neck, her tongue entwined with his. She inhaled the scent of his cologne and savored the wetness of his mouth. The gentle strength in his arms promised protection and safety. She leaned her softness into his hardness. Rodrigo drew back slightly, his half-lidded eyes heavy with lust. “You do please me, Rye.” “Don’t you think you should turn off the boat engines before we asphyxiate ourselves and half the dock?” Mariah pulled away and smoothed her clothes. She glanced around. A small audience of dock boys and girls gawked at them. **** They filled themselves to bursting with an excellent dinner at the Roche Harbor Restaurant. Rico managed to get the boat away from the dock and out of the marina without doing bodily harm to anyone or anything. “Rigo, would you like to take the long way around and maybe see some whales?” “Whatever you say.” Whales didn’t interest him but spending more time with her did. He'd rather stay overnight at Roche Harbor, cooped up in a boat with her until morning would have done wonders for his sex life. She was having none of that.

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They motored through Mosquito Pass. The narrow passage had been named after the Mosquito Fleet, a small fleet of ferries that once served the San Juan Islands. The Straits of Juan De Fuca opened up before them. Ocean-going ships entered and exited Puget Sound through this large body of water, approximately twenty-two miles wide. A good sailor respected the straits and listened carefully to weather reports before venturing out into the unprotected waters. Today, the open water was smooth as glass. “Aren't the Olympics beautiful?” Mariah’s eyes lit up and her face became animated. Rico obediently looked at the tall craggy peaks rising from the mainland on the opposite side of the Straits. “Yeah. They’re beautiful.” “Have you ever been to the Olympic National Forest?” “Can’t say that I have.” He hadn't realized she was such a nature freak. “Oh, you must go sometime. You need to see Washington’s rain forests. They’ll humble you. Those old-growth trees are so tall, you can’t see the tops of them. Their trunks are as big around as a car.” He tried to picture a tree that big, but his imagination fell short. Surely, they were some Northwest myth like Sasquatch and Paul Bunyon. Besides, Humbled by a tree? He didn’t think so. “Were you a tourist guide in another life?” Mariah rewarded his lame joke with merry laughter. She kissed his cheek and gazed into his eyes. Something she saw there must have disturbed her because her smile slid off her face. “What’s wrong, Rodrigo?” She snaked her arm around his waist and leaned into him. “Nothing, bella. Nothing a little sex wouldn’t cure.” “Do you ever think about anything but sex?” “I try not to. Look, Rye, really, I’m fine. A little tired.” “Okay.” She accepted his answer but didn’t look convinced. Rico steered the Carmelinda east along the shoreline of San Juan Island. Mariah scanned the horizon with her binoculars in search of whales. The woman was obsessed with those things. Mariah froze, refocused her binoculars and looked again. She jumped up and down like a kid spotting Mickey Mouse at Disneyland. “Rico, I see them! Check it out! They’re coming our way, an entire pod of Orcas!” She leaned over the rail and pointed to some distant point on the horizon.

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Rico played along and looked through his binoculars. He stifled a yawn. They were just large fish. Okay, actually mammals, but they looked like fish. “Can you spot their fins?” she asked. “Uh, yeah, I can.” He saw fins, alright. Lots of them, large black ones, slicing through the water like sharks. The creatures headed straight for their boat. Shit. They did call them killer whales. His eyes narrowed as the fins bore down on their boat. How could something that large move that fast? “Do those things ever attack boats?” Mariah laughed. “You don’t get out much, do you?” Rico didn’t know how to answer that. He’d traveled around the world countless times and been to almost every country on the globe. “They’re not going to hurt us. They’re very intelligent and very peaceloving unless you’re a salmon.” Her eyes sparkled with excitement. “Rigo, Switch off the engines. We’ll just float out here and hope they come to us.” “Sure, bella, whatever you say.” Relaxing a little, Rico shut down the engines. He leaned back in the captain’s chair and laced his fingers behind his head. Maybe he could fit in a little nap. Sleep had eluded him last night, too many troubling thoughts racing through his brain. He studied her nice ass and long legs as she leaned over the railing with her binoculars. Mariah paid no attention to him. She strained against the rail on the flying bridge, intent on spotting the next Orca that broke the water’s surface. Rico envied her childlike eagerness. If only he could bottle her zest for life and pull it out when he needed it. “Rigo, they’re coming right at us! Oh! Look at them! Get up! You can’t miss this!” She grabbed his arm and pulled him to his feet, dragging him to the railing. Rico slouched against the stainless steel rail, observing the whales with disinterest. Several Orcas of differing sizes circled the boat, moving closer with each pass. They frolicked in the water, giving Rico and Mariah a private show. Eva must have sent them—the guardians of his soul. Sure. What crap. One of them leapt out of the water with amazing ease and grace, coming down so close to them that he backed up a step for fear of getting wet. He had to admit that the huge black and white suckers were impressive.

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In spite of his perceived boredom, he couldn’t take his eyes off them. Their lives seemed so simple and pure, his was so complicated and messy. They probably worried about catching their next salmon meal or keeping their babies safe. They didn’t care about writing a number one hit, making money, or getting laid. Well, maybe they did care about getting laid. It’s not like he’d know. He wasn’t a whale researcher. How the heck did whales do it, anyway? Another large Orca surfaced within twenty feet of the yacht. The animal’s fin appeared to be as tall as he was. The huge beast rolled on its side and stared straight at him with one large eye. Rico leaned over the rail for a closer look. He stared, mesmerized. Nothing made sense, yet everything made sense. He felt disembodied, as if he observed everything from a remote position, as that large sea-going mammal worked its magic. It called to him, spoke to his soul. All those things that troubled him so deeply seemed so insignificant. In one profound moment, he realized that nothing mattered as much as moments like this. Rico held his breath, afraid to break the spell. A delicate thread connected him to the world around him. He clung to it, like a dying man clings to his last breath. In a flash of insight, he understood the simple complexity of life and the delicate balance that held it together. Peace and contentment he’d never known filled him, surrounded him, cradled him. He floated free of his human burdens. It was too much. The depth of his feelings frightened him. He looked away, breaking the contact. Shaken, he gripped the railing. The intensity of the experience seemed surreal. The Orca launched out of the water with amazing dexterity and grace. It landed with a huge splash, sending salt water flying everywhere, including on his face. Rico swore the damn thing laughed as it dove under the boat and breached on the opposite side. He’d never forget the sound it made as it blew spray into the air. He swiped at the water on his face. The large Orca gathered his pod together and swam away from them. Their fins glistened in the evening sun. Water lapped at the hull of the boat. Rico wiped a tear from his face as whales cavorted in the distance. Mariah dabbed at her eyes. “Oh, Rodrigo, Aren’t they awesome?” Her unrestrained enthusiasm was contagious. “Yeah, they are, baby. Breathtakingly awesome.” This time he meant it.

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They moved him in ways he couldn’t put in words. The whales had penetrated his cynical armor and left him humbled. A few bars of a new song flowed unencumbered through his mind, a song about Orca whales, life, and rediscovering yourself. He pulled Mariah into his arms, holding her close. She’d just given him a precious gift with a little help from her friends.

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Chapter 9 The Trail Ride The next morning Rico sat on his deck, sipping a cup of strong coffee. He scrawled several rough stanzas of his new song on a piece of yellow tablet paper. He didn’t expect miracles. Hell, he wasn’t sure he believed in them. Regardless, the partial song he’d envisioned yesterday gave him a good beginning. His creative juices trickled instead of flowed, but it was a huge improvement compared to the drought of the last four years. Encouraged, he picked up Max's old guitar, working out the melody. Unfortunately, the thing didn't come close to the sound quality of the one he'd launched into the water. The song led him where it wanted him to go. He let it flow and resisted the urge to try too hard. He sang some experimental tunes, listening to the harmony. Rico teetered on the edge of something extraordinary. So close but so tenuous, like a wild animal, it stood poised at the edge of his conscious mind, ready to turn tail and run at the slightest interruption in his concentration. He reached for it. It held back. Hesitated. Took a tentative step forward. The main house phone jangled impatiently. That elusive flash of creativity disappeared into the dark undergrowth of his mind. Rico swore, jumped to his feet, and swung the guitar over his head. He halted in midswing, and held the guitar over his head for a moment. With a sigh, he leaned it against his chair. The phone jangled again. Only a few people knew his cell number, even fewer knew the house number. Duty to his family bound him to answer it. Rico walked into the house. Checking caller ID, he sighed. His brother. The punk never gave up. He’d already called his cell phone at least a dozen

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times in the past few days. Rico answered it, if for no other reason than to tell the little ass to quit calling him. “Yeah?” he answered, deliberately annoyed. “Hey, Rico. I finally caught you. Things must be going well. I haven’t seen your picture in any of the gossip rags so you must be staying out of trouble.” “I'm old news. They could care less about me.” “Not true. You're always hot news. I don't understand why you don't exploit that free publicity.” “Like you would?” His blood pressure inched up a few notches, his patience level dived down. “It's only smart business.” “Ramon, what the hell do you want?” “Insignia is all over my ass about my next CD.” Insignia was Ramon’s recording company. They were not happy with the poor performance of his last album. If a person could believe the gossip, they were threatening to release his brother from his contract. “Yeah. So?” “Rico? We need to get this CD done.” “What's this 'we' crap?” “Rico, mi hermaño, this is a collaborative effort. You and me—the Sanchez brothers.” “Fuck off.” Little brother didn't miss a beat. “So have you written that Grammywinning song yet?” Nothing penetrated his rhinoceros skin, plus, he had that annoying Sanchez trait of only hearing what he wanted to hear. “I wrote a few. They were crap.” “Send 'em to me. You’re the best songwriter in the business. Your crap is everyone else’s platinum.” He had been the best in the business—four years ago. He hadn't penned a thing worth singing since. And what good songs he'd had, his slimy little bastard of a brother had stolen. “Can't do that. They suck. No substance, no feeling in them.” “Who gives a shit? Since when does substance sell? Hell, look at what’s on TV right now. Look at the best-selling novels. Shit, Rico. If I don’t meet

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this deadline, they’re going to come unglued. They’re expecting a top-ten CD.” “Did Dad put you up to this?” “He’s still honeymooning in the Caribbean with his latest jail-bait bride.” “Thank God.” That meant their bumbling father couldn’t drain his business of its liquid assets, or even worse, buy garbage merchandise they had to pay someone to take away. “Where are you? I'll fly to you. We can work together and get this thing finished.” “Go to hell.” Rico hung up the phone before his brother could utter another word. The house phone immediately began ringing again. Rico unplugged it and turned off his cell phone. He stared at the guitar for the longest time. Picking it up, he attempted to resume his song writing. Those precious moments of unencumbered creativity had vanished, almost as if they’d never existed. He reached out for them, but they slid from his grasp. Feeling drained and empty, he buried his head in his hands. **** Mariah loved early morning. Everything smelled so clean and fresh. Dew clung to the grass, and the cool crisp air refreshed her. Horses munched on their morning hay in their stalls, one of the best sounds in the world. The blue sky promised another sunny day, perfect for a trail ride in the woods. Rodrigo would love it. City boy or not, she'd seen his reaction to the whales. There was more to him than he'd admit. Just how much more, she wasn't sure. She'd never been one for casual flings, yet anything beyond casual with him would most likely end in heartbreak for her. A hopeless romantic, she wondered what it would be like to wake up with Rodrigo next to her. She shook her head at her foolishness. Hopeless was the operative word. After all, she'd never be able to measure up to all the women who had come before her. Lousy in bed, she couldn't possibly satisfy him for even a night. Warren hadn’t been able to unthaw her frozen sex drive, and she'd thought she'd been in love with Warren, stupid woman that she was.

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How could Rodrigo achieve the impossible? She hated her indecision. One moment she was all over the man, the next she was shoving him away. He had to have the patience of a saint to put up with her. Sooner or later, she needed to come clean with him, to explain her conflicting messages. He needed to know that it wasn't him, it was her. If he was a smart man, he'd give up and find a woman without her hang-ups. Mariah heard steps behind her. He was early. She turned around. A welcoming smile spread across her face before she could stop it. The grain bucket she carried in her hand fell onto the concrete aisle with a thud, scattering grain everywhere. Her throat constricted and her stomach knotted. “Warren. What are you doing here?” She fought to keep her voice level and the fear from creeping into it. Warren could smell fear. He thrived on it. She couldn’t let him see that he disconcerted her. Even so, she crossed her arms protectively in front of her. He stood in the barn door, his sharp gray eyes taking her apart piece by piece. What he saw apparently pleased him. “I thought you and I might want to get a drink, just for old time’s sake.” His predatory smile never reached his cold eyes, as his gaze meandered down her body and back up again, as if he was mentally undressing her. “I’m sorry. I’m busy. I can’t.” Mariah righted the grain bucket. “Maybe you’d prefer to head straight to the bedroom.” “I’m not going anywhere with you.” Anger ate away the last crumbs of fear. His eyes narrowed. The hatred in them set her back a step. “You bitch, you were holding out on me. I thought it was such a shame that a beautiful woman like you was so frigid. Come to find out, it was an act. I bet you were dancing in the sheets with him the whole time.” “You have no idea what you're talking about.” Warren laughed, “Why don't you show me what your Latin lover has taught you? I understand those Latins don’t have any inhibitions. It could make for an interesting night.” “How do you know about him?” “I make it my business to know everything about you.” “Get out of here.” She clenched her fists and set her jaw.

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“He'll never know. Obviously, I didn’t. Or does he even care?” He stalked toward her slowly. She backed up until he had her pinned against a stack of hay bales. Grabbing both of her wrists, he shackled them in one hand. Holding her chin in his other hand, he yanked her face toward him. She glared defiantly at him. “Go to hell,” She spat at him, her temper flared. He laughed as his face came close to hers. “I'd much rather have you fighting me than willing anyway. It makes it more exciting.” Mariah started to scream, but he slapped her so hard that her head snapped backwards and slammed against a hay bale. “Don't make a sound, or you'll regret it.” She started to struggle against him, and he pressed his body against hers to pin her against the wall. So much for her mock bravery, every cell in her body trembled. “Mariah, how about a better welcome than that? After all, we haven’t seen each other in months.” “And that was fine with me.” “Ah, baby, don’t play hard to get. How about a kiss for old time’s sake for your lover?” “You were hardly a lover.” Warren’s eyes narrowed. Pushing him too far wasn’t a good idea. His cold eyes filled with menace. She lifted her chin, her eyes blazing. She tried to evade him, but he squeezed her wrists tighter. “You’re hurting me.” “Oh, yeah, baby. It hurts so good. Do you like that?” Mariah vigorously shook her head. She was scared shitless, but the more he sensed her fear, the more power it gave him. “Let go of me.” She kept her voice level and even, while her heart hammered in her chest. “What are you afraid of, darling? Do you think I’ll throw you down in the hay and rip your clothes off? I admit it does sound intriguing. Unfortunately, I’m here on business. Perhaps, we can arrange to meet another time for our personal pleasure.” “Never.” She struggled to free her hands. He laughed, but the cruelty of the sound negated any semblance of joy. “I love it when your green eyes flash like that.” “What do you want?”

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“Actually, I’m here to offer you a deal, so to speak.” He moved his face within inches of hers. Mariah held her ground even though she shook inside. “Get on with it then.” “I have a business venture that develops properties for resorts.” “Oh.” She didn’t find that particularly surprising. Warren was interested in anything that made Warren money. “One of my companies is called Deer Harbor Development.” “I don’t see what this has to do with me.” “Oh, you will. This property you’re sitting on is worth millions, Mariah. There’s a huge amount of waterfront and unspoiled acreage here.” “And that’s the way it’ll stay. Unspoiled. This is my land, Warren. You know that. My family homesteaded here a hundred years ago. They've always wanted it to be kept in tact.” “You could use the money. I know your situation. The cash from this place would allow you to live in luxury for the rest of your life.” Warren noted with a gleam in his eye. “That’s none of your business.” “Come on, baby. Remember who you’re talking to. I know all about your clothes habit, all that money you spend on those labels. There’s not much business for an interior designer on this island. Your parents left their money to that homeless charity and that worthless kids’ camp. That camp, by the way, sits on the best view property in the San Juans.” “That camp isn’t worthless. It helps emotionally damaged kids discover alternatives to drugs and prison. Their programs are state-of-the-art and have a high success rate. My grandparents started it years ago. It’s been a part of this island ever since.” “I know that, but you don’t have to renew their lease.” “Of course, I will. I want them here.” “Mariah, I’m prepared to offer you a fair price for this property. I suggest you take it.” “Or what?” She snorted in disdain. “You have no leverage. This is my property. My aunt left it to me. I’m not selling.” “You think you can afford the taxes on this place with the waterfront and view property?” “I’ll find a way.” She didn't have a clue how, but she would.

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“This is my only offer, Mariah. I want this property, and I have the means to get it. You can take my offer and be in designer clothes the rest of your life, or you can end up with nothing.” “You’re bluffing.” “Am I? Have you forgotten what an excellent attorney I am? You told me once I was ruthless and cruel. I like that sound of that—ruthless and cruel.” He bent down and kissed her, grinding his mouth across hers. Starting to panic, she struggled against him, freed her hands, and beat her fists against his chest. He drew away. She slapped him so hard she left an imprint of her hand on his face. He touched the red mark on his cheek. His eyes blazed. She swallowed and braced herself for the worst. For a moment, she thought he was going to hit her. Instead, he moved away a few steps. “You're going to wish you were nicer to me. I'll be back.” He turned on his heel and stalked off. Mariah slumped against the hay bales. Her body shuddered and her stomach threatened to relieve itself of breakfast. She felt cold, very cold. She gathered her light jacket around her body and hugged herself with her arms. **** When Rico showed up for his lesson, two horses were saddled and ready to go. Mariah wore a pair of tight faded Levis, an old T-shirt, and well-worn cowboy boots. As she brushed past him to bridle Sueño, Rico admired how her cute little butt filled out those jeans. He couldn’t recall when he’d seen her dressed in clothes without a designer label. Regardless, she looked great in anything, though nothing would be even better. In fact, Mariah wouldn't look out of place anywhere he chose to take her. If he took her to a Hollywood party, she wouldn’t just blend in with the other glamorous women, she’d out-class them. Of course, he wasn't going to be taking Mariah to any Hollywood parties. In fact, he wasn't thinking past the next two weeks. “What’s this?” He pointed at the two horses. “We’re going for a ride in the woods, cowboy.”

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“You trust me out of the arena?” He slanted a lopsided grin in her direction. “I trust Sueño. He’ll take care of you. He likes you.” “And if he didn’t like me...?” “He’d dump you.” She kept face hidden from him. “Oh.” Rico didn’t have a comeback for that. “I bet that could hurt?” “Oh, yeah, it could hurt, especially if you landed on your butt. With that hard head of yours, you'd be fine if you landed on your head. The only time Warren ever got on him, he bucked him off within sixty seconds face first into a pile of fresh horse manure.” Rico started laughing, but Mariah didn't join in. “I think Sueño has a sense of humor and a sense of justice.” Mariah gazed at her horse. “I know he does. Rico’s eyes narrowed as he studied her face. She seemed disconcerted, a little off. “You okay?” “I’m fine.” She smiled at him, but her eyes seemed sad. “I had an unpleasant surprise this morning, that’s all.” “Do you want to talk about it?” “No. Let’s enjoy the day.” He nodded in agreement. For now, he’d let it drop. Later, though, he'd get to the bottom of it. Side-by-side, the horses walked at a leisurely pace through the woods. Their hooves drummed a slow, relaxing beat on the hard-packed dirt. The sun shone through the evergreen trees and left patterns of light on the old logging road. The birds chirped, while an offended squirrel scolded them for coming to close to his tree. All seemed right with the world, at least their little corner of it. The trouble that had been weighing Mariah down seemed to have lifted. They rode in comfortable silence, neither wanting to ruin the peace of the moment. Rico shot a look at Mariah, catching her staring at him. He steered Sueño close to Mariah’s horse, Vella, until their knees touched. Reaching across, he planted a gentle kiss on her lips. His lips lingered on hers until the movement of the horses separated them. He felt comfortable and secure, like he belonged. He couldn't remember ever feeling like that before.

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“My beautiful Mariah,” he whispered. Her eyes captivated him and warmed his soul. The woman was a witch who cast spells on Spanish horses and Latin singers, at least, former Latin singers. He touched her lips with his forefinger then drew back and straightened in the saddle. The tenderness in that simple gesture brought tears to her eyes. Her emotions played across her face. Her loving expression should have sent him running in the opposite direction. Instead, it pleased him. She was his woman, at least for the near future. Then he would leave. She would find someone else, and he'd go back to his real life. His gut clenched at the thought of her kissing another man. He knew–-like he knew so many things about her—she had never kissed another man like she kissed him. Even worse, he never wanted her to do so in the future. Yet, he had no claim on her and didn't want one. So what right did he have to think so possessively? Rico frowned, irritated with himself. He’d been behaving like some lovesick fool, which he was not. Mariah, sensing the change in his mood, looked away from his probing eyes and pushed her horse into a faster walk, putting distance between them. Rico let her go, bothered by his vulnerabilities. They stopped in a small clearing. While Rico put halters on the horses and tied them to trees, Mariah spread out a blanket. She poured each of them a glass of wine and arranged sandwiches from the deli on two plates. Thank God, she hadn’t made them herself. They ate in an easy silence, bathed the soothing sounds of the woods and the earthy smell of fir needles. The woods hypnotized them and the wine erased some of her inhibitions. Rico stretched out on the blanket. Mariah made a move to clean up, but Rico stopped her with a hand on her arm. “Come here. Lay down with me. Relax.” “You're asking me to relax?” Her green eyes teased him. “I'm not sure what you mean?” “Don’t you ever stop or slow down?” “I am now.” “For how long? Ten seconds? Then you'll be up and about again.” “Not if I have a good reason to stay right here.” She bit her lower lip, as if considering something, took a deep breath, and dived in. “I'll give you a reason.”

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His eyebrows shot upward. “What do you have in mind?” “On your stomach. Take off your shirt.” Only a fool would wait for a second invitation. He yanked his T-shirt over his head and tossed it aside. Then he stretched out on the blanket and closed his eyes as she worked on the tight muscles in his back. For an amateur, she had great feel. She coaxed and cajoled his stiff body until it bowed to her bidding and relaxed bit by bit. The tension poured out of him like water out of a pitcher. With a contented sigh, he let her touch work its magic and dozed off for several minutes. He woke to her hands stroking his hair. Rico rolled onto his back. He pulled Mariah to him and positioned her so she straddled his body. His hand snaked around the back of her neck and tunneled under her long hair to stroke the soft skin underneath. Using gentle pressure, he lowered her head. His lips captured hers. Sucking them into his mouth, he caressed them with his tongue. She moaned and ground her hips against his. There was no sweeter sound on earth than a warm and willing woman moaning under a man’s touch. This woman was definitely warm. He suspected that willing wasn’t too far behind. Freeing her lips from his erotic ministrations, he twined his tongue with hers. The señorita had a few tricks of her own hidden up her sleeve. She invited his tongue into the soft recesses of her mouth, sucking gently on it. Her own tongue courted it in a sensual dance. Rico moaned into her mouth, as she curled her lips around his. “Baby, Oh, God, baby.” He broke the kiss and pulled on her shirt. He didn’t want anything between them but skin. She reached for him again. There was something desperate in her demeanor, as if she had something to prove. He pushed her hands away. “Not yet.” Rico grasped the bottom of her T-shirt in his hands and pulled upward. She raised her arms so he could take it off. He took his time, savoring each bare inch of creamy skin as it was revealed to him. Her gorgeous round breasts strained against her black lace bra, spilling over the top. One look at her naked skin, and his patience flew out the window. He stripped the Tshirt from her body. She distracted him by placing her hands on his bare torso. Her redtipped nails raked down his chest and across his nipples. Her hips slid

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downward until she sat on his thighs. Oh, yeah, babe, that’s it, keep going lower. Uh huh. Oh, man, don’t quit now. She hesitated at his belt buckle. He took one hand and placed her palm on the bulge in his pants, expecting her to pull away. She didn’t. She kept her hand there. He closed his eyes for a moment and bit his lip. His pulse ran rampant, responding to her hand resting on his hardness. Afraid of turning blue from holding his breath, he forced air into his lungs. “Touch me,” he rasped. Mariah's body shuddered involuntarily. “Why do you do this to me?” Her green eyes pleaded for mercy. “Because you like it.” Rico didn't have any interest in showing any mercy. “Unzip my jeans, amor.” Like a woman in a trance, she touched his belt. Her fingers trembled as she fumbled with the buckle. After an eternity of torturous pleasure, she finally loosened it. Her hands lowered his zipper and eroded his control. In one swift motion he rolled her onto her back and switched positions. She stared up at him in shock and surprise. Reaching for her hand, he stroked her palm. One long finger traced a path from the inside of her wrist and up her arm. “You're torturing me.” “Yeah, it's sweet, isn't it?” His voice was raspy, husky. Served her right, the teasing wench. “You keep coming back for more. I'm not holding you captive.” His long finger moved to her shoulder. Mariah held her breath as it traveled slowly downward again and across her breast where he hesitated briefly then down lower to her stomach, to her thighs. “I could do this with my lips.” Rico's voice was barely a whisper. “Then why don’t you, cowboy?” The glimmer in her eyes challenged him. The woman was doing some torturing of her own. Damn. He loved it when she challenged him like that. The sound of her soft voice, husky with desire, drove every fiber of his being into instant lust. His hands journeyed upwards, pausing briefly to circumnavigate her nipples through the bra. He slid her bra straps off her shoulders, not yet baring her breasts. His mouth nuzzled her neck and his stubble rasped against her collarbone. Hovering over her, he rubbed his erection against her crotch. She moaned and arched her back toward him.

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He kissed her, letting her feel all the hunger imprisoned in his horny body. His other hand slid down and found the button on her Levi’s. Unsnapping it, he tugged on the zipper. The damn thing was stuck. He tugged harder, feeling almost frantic. A warm, and now willing, woman was wriggling beneath him, tormenting him with her partially naked body, and he was arguing with a zipper. He’d expected resistance but not from her jeans. Slipping through his lust-induced fog, his mind warned him that they were being watched. He ignored that pesky feeling, but it became stronger until he had to acknowledge it. Ever worried about reporters, he dragged his lips away from Mariah’s. Sueño's big nose hovered less than a foot from his face, so close that he smelled his horse breath. Trying Eva’s horse communication methods of visualization, Rico imagined cans and cans of dog food. Hopefully, this equine intruder would receive one of the images. You wanna end up in a can, Buddy? You’re pushing it. Sueño flattened his ears, as if he understood the human’s words. He snorted at Rico, opened his large mouth, rolled his eyes, and coughed loudly. Green horse snot laced with chewed up pieces of grass blew in all directions. The majority of it landed on Rico’s face, in his hair, and on his chest. Disgusted beyond belief, Rico yelped and leaped back. Mariah, not realizing what happened, jumped to her feet. Her panic turned to laughter when she saw his face. Rico desperately wiped it off with his T-shirt, swearing loudly in Spanish. Mariah readjusted her bra, pulled on her shirt, and buttoned her jeans. She smoothed her mussed hair. The magic of the moment was lost. Rico glared accusingly at Sueño whose head was now stuck in between the two of them as if he’d been invited to join their little picnic. “I thought you were tied up.” Great, now she had him talking to horses. Sueño regarded Rico with a curious expression, as if he didn’t have a clue what all the commotion was about. “Did I mention to you that he can untie himself?” Mariah started picking up their things, letting him know that he wasn't going to get a second chance in this meadow. “Great timing. I thought I was gonna get a little.” “Actually, cowboy, you were just about to get a lot. Better luck next time.” She spun around and flounced off to get her horse.

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Chapter 10 Friday Harbor A worrier by nature, Mariah had learned over the years to suppress her inclinations and adopt her Scarlett attitude. Unfortunately, Warren’s appearance and his subsequent threats were a little more than even she could block. It’d take a large distraction to purge Warren from her mind. That distraction came in the form of an overnight boat trip to Friday Harbor with her Latin flame. She had one stipulation—separate staterooms. Rodrigo didn’t like the arrangement but agreed to her terms. Besides, she didn’t want to stay in that big old house by herself in case Warren was still on the island. His uninvited visit frightened her so much she couldn't seem to think straight. That was the only explanation for her earlier out-of-character behavior. She’d needed Rodrigo’s closeness and comfort, and whether he knew it or not, his protection. After a pleasant cruise to Friday Harbor, they tied up to the guest dock early in the evening and didn’t drown any dock boys in the process. In keeping with her princess image, Mariah took over the master stateroom on Max’s yacht. Done in subtle beiges and rich teak, a queensized bed dominated the middle of the room. The headboard rested against the aft bulkhead. A teak door opened to a small head with a vanity and shower. Mariah stuffed both closets and all the drawers with enough clothes for a week instead of a night. In the Northwest, you never knew what kind of weather you’d get from one hour to the next. She’d packed clothes to cover all the bases. Old Man Weather wouldn’t be able to pull a fast one on her, but then he rarely did when it came to clothes. Shaking her head, she studied the dresses piled on the bed. What did a woman wear for a night of dancing with a sexy Latin? She’d never had this type of fashion challenge before.

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One by one, she tried everything on again. She kept coming back to the hooker dress—suitable for salsa dancing if you were a bad girl, completely unsuitable if you were a good girl. She’d thrown it in her suitcase at the spur of the moment. Now, she regretted that lapse in her common sense. The stupid thing kept calling to her, tempting her to take a walk on the wild side. She’d bought it last year at a trendy boutique, as shopping therapy, shortly after she’d broken off her engagement. A bargain on sale, it looked so good on her she couldn't resist it. It made her feel daring and rebellious, but having the guts to buy it and having the guts to wear it were two different things. Rodrigo tapped on the door. “Mariah, what are you doing in there? It’s almost 8:00. Let’s get going, or we won’t get a seat.” He sounded exasperated. Mariah sighed, staring at the myriad of dresses strewn all over the bed. The moment of truth crashed down upon her like a fly swatter on a fly. Wear the man-killer dress, and she all but sealed her fate for the night. Sex was written all over that dress in BIG, BOLD letters. She’d be branded the worst kind of tease in her own mind if she didn’t put out after subjecting him to that dress. She chewed on a fingernail and fingered the slinky material. She needed to get beyond her fears and learn to be a confident woman. If she couldn't enjoy sex with Rodrigo, chances were she'd never enjoy it with anyone. That was the problem. Before she lost her nerve, she slipped the hooker dress over her head. She kept her back to the mirror until she pulled and tugged the tight little number into place. Turning slowly, she studied her reflection with the critical eye of a woman her made her living in design. Her mouth dropped open at the sight of the sexy vamp in the mirror. That stranger couldn’t be her. She’d overdone it. She couldn’t go through with this. She couldn’t be something she wasn’t. And this she wasn’t. Fear crept down her throat and settled in her stomach, leaving a hard lump of indecision. “Mariah?” A sharp rap on the door. Rodrigo sounded as if he was exercising an iron control on his Latin/Irish temper. She suspected that iron might start corroding pretty soon. “Are you almost ready?”

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The dress clung to her body like a wet T-shirt. The shimmering, satiny material took on different colors of the rainbow depending on which curve or valley of her body it nestled against. The skin-tight skirt ended a few inches below her rear with a six-inch fringe around the bottom. The bodice was cut like a clingy camisole with lace along the neck and spaghetti straps. The neckline plunged low enough to offer a tantalizing view of her cleavage. At least it wasn’t obscenely revealing, depending on a woman’s definition of obscene. Other than a g-string, she couldn’t wear any other underwear or Rodrigo would be subjected to looking at panty and bra lines all night. Instead he’d be treated to her nipples and her bare butt if she bent over. What the heck did she think she was doing? The clock had run out on his patience. He pounded on the door. She didn’t have time to change—her mind or her dress. Using the small bathroom mirror, she refreshed her makeup and checked her hair one last time. With a deep breath, she opened the stateroom door and ascended the four stairs that led to the main salon. Rodrigo stood with his back to her. He tapped his foot impatiently and stared out the window. She froze. If her feet hadn’t been anchored to the floor, she would have fled back to the stateroom to change. Whatever possessed her to wear this dress? Even as she asked herself that question, she knew the answer in her heart. Her suspicions regarding his background compelled her to do it. Despite his scruffiness, she suspected Rodrigo dated glamorous, sexy women. She needed to prove to him, and herself, that she could hold her own with the best of them. She couldn’t be shy, insecure Mariah tonight. She knew him so well yet didn’t know at all. He’d semi-cleaned up tonight. He wore black jeans that hugged his narrow hips, long legs, and great butt. He turned slightly, giving her a glimpse of his front. His bronzed chest sported a white cotton shirt, unbuttoned at least four buttons. The man had a great chest, and he knew it. She wanted to slip her hands underneath that shirt and feel those strong muscles rippling under her fingers. To complete the whole sexy picture, his rolled-up sleeves revealed his tanned, corded arms.

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She forced her eyes up to his face. He hadn’t noticed her yet. His hair still did its own thing. The ever-present stubble darkened his skin. His appearance embodied a dangerous—and very Latin—male. Any woman in her right mind would salivate in the presence of that sizzling man. Taking a deep breath, she gathered up her nerve like a shield around her, squared her shoulders, and sauntered toward him in her best Marilyn Monroe imitation. She was face-to-face with the defining moment in their relationship. Maybe in her life. **** Rico heard her soft footsteps on the teak flooring. Irritated with her for making him wait, he kept his back to her. Let her suffer a little. “Rigo?” Her melodic voice floated to him, sounding uncertain and nervous. He turned, ready to give her a taste of his displeasure. Ready to lay into her, his mouth opened but nothing came out except a squeak. He’d never squeaked over a woman in his life. His lungs forgot how to operate at the sight of her in that dress. Somebody get the oxygen tank. His heart, on the other hand, increased its pace to warp speed. His mute mouth fell open. He consciously anchored his tongue to the roof of his mouth so it didn’t hang down to his knees. Down south, another part of his anatomy sprang to attention. Ay yi yi...Holy shit. Who is this? “I’m ready.” She squirmed under his lust-filled gaze. “I’m sorry it took so long. I couldn’t decide what to wear. Do I look okay?” She spun around slowly to give him the full effect. She stumbled slightly as she turned. Rico swallowed and mopped his brow. What did a woman wear under a dress like that? He called upon all his years of experience in the spotlight and under the microscope to regain some composure. At least outwardly he appeared calm. Inside, he declared himself a major disaster area. Earthquake, volcano, tornado, hurricane, you name it, they all raged inside him. She moved away to pickup her purse from the couch. The skirt’s fringe accentuated every movement of her hips and lush little behind. “You look

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very erotic...uh, I mean exotic.” With a great effort he heaved his sexdeprived brain out of the gutter it had once again fallen into. Glancing around for a distraction, he plucked a red rose from a glass of water on the nearby counter. “This is for you, amor.” He placed the single red rose in her hand. The damn thing had cost him seventy-five bucks—$50 to bribe the dock boy to find a rose after hours in Friday Harbor and $25 to placate an irate homeowner for the rose stolen from his garden. Mariah took the single red rose and tucked it behind her ear. Her emerald eyes sparkled. “Do I look like a señorita now?” He laughed and took her hand, sweeping downward in an exaggerated bow. “Sí, your beauty is incomparable.” It'd be a miracle if he made it through the evening alive considering how hot she looked. What a way to die, though. “Why don’t we stay here instead of going out tonight?” She laughed and ran a finger down his bare arm. “I don’t think that would be a good idea.” “Sounds like a fucking good idea to me.” And he meant every word of it. Mariah shook her head and took his hand, practically pulling him out the door. The bar reminded him of the Mexican Restaurant on Orcas Island, same cheesy décor and same dark, smoke-saturated atmosphere. This bar was bigger with a small hardwood dance floor. He led Mariah to a private table for two in the corner. One of the few tables left, they were lucky to get it. Rico didn’t have to worry about being recognized. Every man in the place gawked at Mariah like pit bulls eying prime rib. Every woman wanted to be her. Mariah ignored them all, totally oblivious to the attention she attracted. She was a breath of fresh air in a room full of stale beer and cheap perfume. “There isn't a man in this place that doesn’t have his eyes on you.” He glared at one particularly bold jerk who hadn't quit staring at her legs since they'd walked in. Mariah looked around. As she did, several men quickly averted their eyes. She looked back to Rico, somewhat embarrassed. “There's only one man in this place that I want to have his eyes on me.” “Believe me, sweetheart, they are.” Rico allowed himself another leisurely tour of her body. That dress should be put in the Smithsonian or declared cruel and unusual punishment for hapless males, he wasn’t sure

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which. She’d shocked him by wearing it, but then his little Gemini brimmed with surprises. Every time he thought he had her figured her out, she threw him another curve ball. The bar lights dimmed, leaving only a candle to illuminate their table. Rico slid his chair next to hers and put his hand on her knee, rubbing it absently as he studied her face in the flickering candlelight. She gnawed on her lower lip, concentrating her attention on his chest. Tonight she was his. No more playing by the rules. He planned on bringing out the big guns. Or would that be big gun? He’d use every weapon of seduction available to him. She didn’t stand a fighting chance. He hoped. He picked up a lock of her mahogany hair and wrapped it around his finger. Bringing his hand toward his chest, her hair slid off his finger to nestle between her cleavage. His eyes followed it downward and stayed there. Her rounded breasts peeked out over the lace bodice. The movement caused by her labored breathing only made them more desirable. Starting at the inside of her knee, Rico’s hand did a tango up her leg, stopping short of the spot he longed to touch. Soon she’d beg him to touch her there. He’d just keep stoking that fire. He caressed and teased the inside of her silky thigh, making small, lazy, deliberate circles. Her eyes grew heavy, lidded, hypnotized by his touch. Mariah’s hand hovered near his chest as if she was considering unbuttoning another button. Rico captured her graceful hand in his. He held it up to his mouth and kissed the tip of each red fingernail. Turning the heat up a notch, he wrapped his fingers gently around her index finger and slipped it in his mouth, sucking gently. She rolled her head back, unable to suppress a groan of pleasure. He slid it in and out a few times. After licking her fingertip, he studied the moisture left by his tongue then ran her palm across his stubbled cheek. Mariah pried her hand from his. Those emerald eyes searched his face. A small, nervous smile lifted the corners of her luscious mouth. She licked her lips. Leaning forward, her breath tickled his ear. “My turn, cowboy.” Her voice slid over him like satin. He shifted his position to relieve some pressure. Bring it on, Baby. Take your turn. She fingered the exposed skin by his collarbone. Her emerald eyes seared a path downward from his neck to his belt. The contoured muscles

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under his shirt flexed involuntarily under her curious gaze. She unbuttoned one more button on his shirt then hesitated. Her fingers played with the curly hair on his chest, stroking and petting him. Rico held his breath, and an involuntary shiver ran through him. He fought for control of the situation, irritated by his own weaknesses. This was his playing field, and he played to win, at least to score. He couldn’t let an amateur beat him at his own game. Somehow, he mustered the inner strength to put together a coherent string of words. Leaning forward, he whispered in her ear. “I’m all yours, baby. I'm a generous man. You can have whatever you want.” He captured her earlobe between his teeth and tugged on it. She tried to move away, but he held her head still. He released her earlobe and blazed a fiery trail down her jaw to her neck. His other hand crept higher up her skirt. She clamped her legs tightly together, trapping his fingers. Not such a bad place to be, so close to paradise and yet so far. Her eyes flew open, as if she just realized where they were and what they were doing. Startled, she leapt to her feet. “I...I need to use the ladies room.” She didn’t wait for a response but literally ran away from their table. Rico didn’t know whether to smile in triumph or bellow in frustration. That was a close one. His seduction of her had almost turned into her seduction of him. She had this maddening way of turning the tables on him just when he thought he had the upper hand. While letting her take the lead might prove interesting, he needed to stay in control. This incredible woman was sucking him deeper into this relationship than he intended. His aching need for her went beyond the physical. Not a good thing for a man who swore he’d never get emotionally attached to another woman. Rico looked up as the waiter cleaned off their table and deposited two more drinks. The stocky Hispanic smiled at him. “If you don’t mind my saying, your woman is very hot, and she seems devoted to you. You’re one lucky man—the envy of every man here.” Rico glanced in the direction Mariah had gone. “Sí, I know.” **** Mariah leaned against the bathroom door in an effort to compose herself. If she hadn’t left when she had, she’d be spread-eagled on top of the

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table by now, giving the entire room a show. If it hadn't been for her painstakingly applied makeup, she'd splash cold water on her face. Instead, with an unsteady hand, she refreshed her lipstick. Taking deep breaths, she attempted to rein in her emotions, but she was riding a runaway horse. The man made her crazed. She didn't even recognize herself. Never in her life had a man touched her in such a private manner in a public place. In fact, she’d rarely been touched like that in any place. The only way to describe how she felt right now came down to one word: horny. The man was a master. The two margaritas hadn’t hurt his cause either. What did she expect after wearing a dress like that one? “Jump my bones and make me scream” was embedded in every skimpy fiber. Dabbing her chest with a wet paper towel, she resolved to make it through the night in one piece. Her wanton behavior disgusted her on one level and thrilled her on another. Maybe it hadn’t been all her fault with Warren. Maybe she wasn’t such a cold fish, after all. Tossing the towel in the wastebasket, she marched with determination back to their table. Avoiding his gaze, she sat down in her chair and slid it a respectable distance from him. Undeterred, he scooted his chair against hers, wrapped his arm around her and bound her to his side. The heat from his body melted her earlier resolve faster than ice in the Sahara. “So tell me, why do they call this Friday Harbor? I've been meaning to ask you, but I keep getting distracted.” He winked at her. Mariah embraced the light conversation, even if it was the calm before the next sensual storm. “No one knows for sure, but this is the story I like the best. A ship, mapping the area, pulled into the harbor. The captain spotted a man on shore and called out to him 'what bay is this?' The man on shore said Friday, thinking the captain had asked him, 'what day is this?'” Rodrigo smiled. “So it became Friday Harbor.” “So they say. Anyway, that’s the most popular story.” “It works for me. Let’s dance, amor.” He flashed one of his broad grins and enslaved her heart once again. His warm mocha eyes heated her body down to her toes like hot fudge drizzling down a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

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He stood and held his hand out to her. Mariah hung back. Had she recovered enough to brave another sexual onslaught? Salsa dancing with him in her skimpy little dress could be hazardous to both of them. “Are you okay?” Concern for her gentled his brown eyes. “I...I don't know why, but I'm nervous about dancing with you. I know it's stupid. You and I have danced up a storm several times.” “Mariah. There's nothing to worry about. You dance well, very well.” “We've never done this kind of dancing together. What if I suck?” “Well, bella, you can suck, just not at dancing.” He whooped with laughter at her shocked look. “You'll be fine. We'll burn up that dance floor.” “I don't doubt of that, I already am burning.” “Sí, so am I.” “I’m not comfortable dancing like that.” She pointed at the women moving seductively on the dance floor. A slow, amused smile crossed his face. “Mariah, you have no reason to feel insecure about your dancing. When you move, your body flows with this easy grace I could watch forever.” He bent down, speaking only for her to hear. “I want to feel your body moving against me, underneath me. I want to feel all that passion you keep locked up inside, except for those few times I’ve unleashed a portion of it.” He touched his lips to hers. “Give me a chance.” His eyes melded their souls together. Confidence flowed out of him into her, fueling her with the courage she lacked. It circled back to him becoming more powerful on the return trip. The more they gave to each other, the more they received. Empowered by his trust in her abilities, the fear fell away little by little. She banished the remaining uncertainties from her mind. Their gazes lingered for a few more seconds, leaving both of them awed by what had just passed between them. Taking a calming breath, Mariah ignored her residual doubts. A sassy, though nervous, smile lit up her face. “So big guy, show me your stuff.” Rising to her feet, she took his hand. He grinned and pinched her rear, causing her to squeal in surprise. She slapped at his hand, and a deep chuckle resonated through his chest. “What stuff would you like to see? I thought you wanted to dance? But, hey, you know me? I'm game for whatever you have in mind.”

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Mariah glared at him and stuck out her tongue. “Oooooh, baby, don't tempt me.” “You're incorrigible. “But I'm cute.” Rodrigo smiled his awarding-winning smile—the one that came with the guarantee to make a woman go from solid to liquid in three seconds. At least it worked on her. He tried to pull her against him. She wiggled away and danced onto the dance floor. Her body swayed in time to the music. The fast salsa beat vibrated with tango undertones. Standing face to face, Mariah looped her arms around Rodrigo’s neck. Her hips moved from side to side, inviting him to step closer. Once he did, she moved back a step. He caught her in his arms, binding her to his body. His eyes burned into hers, scorching everything in their path. He moved his hips against hers in a slow, sensuous motion. She anticipated every move he made and followed suit. Caught up in the music, she forgot her inhibitions and gave herself up to the beat. She loved dancing with him. They moved together as if they’d been dancing partners for several lifetimes. Eva would say they had. Rodrigo’s stubble rasped against her smooth cheek. His hot breath tickled her neck. He twirled her around and pulled her tightly to him. One long leg slipped between her thighs. He rubbed against her crotch in a deliberately enticing motion. Then he spun her out and away from him, stepping back and letting her go. She raised her hands high above her head and rotated her hips quickly from side to side. He wasn't about to be outdone as he gyrated his supple hips, purposely bumping her. Grabbing her hands, he spun her out and back until she was plastered against his lean body. As he dipped her low, she hooked one leg around his hip. He drew her back to him until their lips were touching. Mariah's leg was still wrapped around him as their hips rubbed together in a wild rhythm. The song ended, Mariah glanced around. The dance floor was deserted. The other dancers clapped and cheered. Her face turned red from more than embarrassment. Rodrigo just grinned. The man didn’t mind being in the spotlight one bit. He held Mariah’s hand and took a low bow. She followed his lead and bowed also.

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Turning, she threw her arms around him and held him tightly, laughing and giggling with excitement. Rodrigo picked her up and whirled her around in his arms, not letting her feet touch the floor. Exhausted, they collapsed into their chairs and sat out the next few dances in a companionable silence. Later, Mariah snuggled in his arms for a slow dance and wished this night would never end. “You feel good.” His husky voice reverberated with a raw need. She turned her face to look up at him, so many emotions coursed through her mind and body. “Rigo?” Her voice held a question she didn’t have the courage to ask. She caressed his face gently with her fingertips, marveling at the fact that her touch sent an uncontrollable shudder through his body. She’d never realized that such an innocent caress could be so sensual. Rodrigo tilted his head and kissed a path from her neck to her ear and along her jaw. His lips caught hers in a soft, tender kiss. She leaned her head on his shoulder and closed her eyes, absorbing his essence, his vitality, his energy into her being. She adored him. She wanted him. She loved him. She loved him? Cupid had shot a bull’s eye right in the middle of her foolish, gullible heart. She ought to be gunning for the little guy in the diaper who'd subjected her to the misery of love. Instead, she wanted to smother him with grateful kisses. Her inner admission didn’t surprise or shock her. She’d known it all along, just never voiced it even in her private thoughts. She loved him with the kind of love that fills a person with joy. It was nothing like the destructive emotions she’d experienced with Warren. But it was more dangerous in different way. She made her decision. Tonight, she’d give him the one thing he wanted most from her. Not because she expected anything in return, but because she loved him. She didn’t think it would take much to convince Rodrigo. Heck, he’d throw her over his shoulder and sprint for the boat. That image brought a smile to her lips.

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She was going to take Eva’s advice and live life for once, instead of fearing it. Hold onto your shorts, Rigo—not that you’re going to need them. It’s going to be a heck of a ride. Heaven help me go through with this. **** They danced every dance together. Mariah’s endless energy almost wore Rico out. At times he barely kept up with her. Refusing to be the first to crack, he slipped the DJ a fifty. The man understood completely and took a break. Rico and Mariah sat down at their table. Rico leaned forward and took Mariah’s hands. She seemed mellow, relaxed, open. Before he could stop it, the question that burned in the back of his mind tumbled out of his mouth. “Mariah, what happened between you and Warren? You never talk about it. Eva said that I’m the only man who’s interested you in a few years.” She sighed and looked over his head at some faraway spot. Finally, her gaze swept back to him. “He was jealous—of everything and everyone, even wanted me to quit riding. I almost did it for him. It would have been like cutting out a piece of my soul. When I wouldn’t do what he wanted, he started to get emotionally abusive. There was more to it than that, of course, but that explains it in a nutshell.” Mariah picked at the label on his beer. “The man sounds like a bastard.” Mariah nodded her agreement. “It gets worse.” She looked at Rico as if trying to assess whether or not to say more. “I’ve never told anyone the whole sordid story. I don’t know if you’ll understand.” “Try me, I’m a good listener.” He slid his chair next to hers and squeezed her shoulder. “I know it sounds old-fashioned, but I always thought I’d be a virgin when I got married. Warren convinced me not to wait, we were getting married anyway he said. What difference did it make? So I gave in, and it was a disaster. I only slept with him a few times, and I dreaded each time. He had a cruel side that didn’t come out until we were intimate. He hurt me mentally and physically. Warren said I was frigid. That there was something

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wrong with me. A week before our wedding, I found him in bed with another woman. He blamed it on me. Said it was my fault that he had to get his enjoyment elsewhere. I threw his ring at him and ran out. That was the end of it. I’ve been afraid to get close to another man ever since.” Mariah looked away, tears filling her eyes. “What if I’m a big failure? What if he’s right?” She hesitated. “I can’t believe I’m telling this to you. I’ve had too much to drink.” Rico pulled her closer to comfort her, finding that he liked the feeling it gave him. “Rye, we’re friends, good friends. You don’t have to feel uncomfortable talking to me about anything. You were the inexperienced one. It was up to him to help you. He's the one with the problem, not you. You’re such a compassionate caring person, I can’t imagine you’d be a bad lover.” Rico handed her the margarita the waiter just set on the table. “Here, have another drink. I like it when you’re not so worried about what you’re going to say.” Mariah gazed up at him and managed a smile. She even giggled. “Are you going to carry me back to the boat after I finish this drink?” “I could do that.” These tender emotions she elicited disturbed him. Lust, he could handle, but not this tenderness, this needing, this longing for her that transcended the physical. “We all have our scars, Rye.” “You, too?” “Oh, yeah, me, too. There was a woman I loved deeply. She left me when I needed her the most. It hurt. Now she’s married to my best friend and having his baby.” Rico swallowed the lump in his throat, hoping Mariah didn’t notice. She reached up and twined her fingers in the hand he’d draped across her shoulders. “We're quite a pair, aren't we?” Rico regarded her carefully. The music started again, rescuing him. He stood up and reached for her. “Let’s dance, Rye.” She wrapped her arms around his neck and rested her head on his shoulder. Her breath feathered his neck. Mariah swayed, and he tightened his grip to hold her up. “I could show you how wrong Warren was, Mariah. You’d enjoy it with me. I have a hunch that we would be damn good in bed together.” Mariah turned her head slightly, letting his lips graze her cheek. She met his eyes. “I think we would be.”

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“I know we would be. Let me make you moan with pleasure.” Rico left the rest of the sentence hanging out there in an open invitation. When the dance ended, he led her to their table. He leaned his head back and closed his eyes. The moment of truth had come. He couldn’t take this evening any further until he put all his cards out on the table. Mariah deserved nothing less than the truth. Taking a deep breath, he opened his eyes to find her staring at him with a concerned expression. His hold on her hand tightened, and he laid his head on her shoulder. Breathing in the smell of her perfume, he knew he would never again smell that particular scent again without thinking of her. Rico sighed deeply and lifted his head to study her face. “Mariah, I have to tell you the truth about me. Before this evening goes any further, you have to know....” Mariah's green eyes met his. Her expression seemed intent and determined. She shook her head and held a finger to his lips to silence him. “No, I don’t want to know. Not tonight. Not now. I just want to see you as my Rodrigo, Okay? Nobody else. Give me that tonight, please?” Their eyes locked, carrying on a silent conversation that needed no words. He rubbed his index finger absently across her palm and felt the little shiver of excitement that rushed through her. He didn’t deserve this woman. Rico nodded in silent agreement. He needed some fresh air. He needed to clear his mind of all these conflicting thoughts and emotions. She was right. For tonight, he just wanted to be Rodrigo. He didn't want to be a former international superstar ruined by a drug scandal and teetering on the brink of financial ruin. He didn't want to think about the pressures on him and the demands on his time. Demands that always took precedence over a personal life. Demands that would force him to leave this woman that warmed his soul with her very presence. What was it all worth? He wasn't sure yet. He couldn't answer that question. Right now, looking at Mariah, he didn’t think there was any force on earth that could make him leave her. Yet, things could look very different in the morning. They always did. Rico asked the waiter for the bill. “Are we leaving?” She didn’t sound disappointed.

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Rico nodded. Why was she smiling? He was too distracted by his mission to get out of there to pay much attention. The waiter handed him the bill. Rico counted out a few bills and tossed them carelessly on the table. He waited with impatience for Mariah to grab her purse. He ignored her struggle to keep pace with him as he strode out into the night air and down the dimly lit sidewalk to the marina. Rico felt smothered and frightened by a fear he couldn’t name. He was Rico Sanchez. A normal life didn’t exist for him. He’d sold that right years ago in order to be an entertainer, a celebrity. He’d given up who he was for a dream which had turned into a living nightmare. Even now, the press still hounded him. The tabloids paid money for stories about him, mostly dirt, of course. Even in exile, his notoriety continued. He’d always dedicated himself to his career, first his music, now his business interests. Nothing was left over for a woman like Mariah. Nothing. He needed a woman for arm candy, to raise his children, to be his hostess. Not one that demanded equal time and energy or bound him to her through an emotional connection. He fought to breathe, to find a way to force himself to relax. He needed to get a handle on his feelings toward this woman. She made him feel again, made the emptiness go away. But emotions came with a steep price. He’d been there before. Did he want to pay that price again?

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Chapter 11 The Moment “Rodrigo, please, slow down!” Mariah teetered precariously on her spiked heels as she stumbled down the marina ramp. Rodrigo stopped and turned to look at her like a man who’d just been beamed down to the planet and had no idea where he was or what he was doing there. “Uh, I’m sorry.” He avoided her eyes. “Are you okay?” She wrapped her arms around him. He stiffened, his hands clenched into fists at his sides, his entire body wound tighter than a spring. Mariah stepped away, puzzled by his behavior. “Let’s go to the boat. It’s late.” He nodded wordlessly and walked beside her, not touching her. They boarded the boat in silence. She tossed her purse on the couch. The time had come to do what she needed to do. She loved him, and she wanted to show him how much. Maybe he didn’t love her, but he was attracted to her—for tonight that would have to be enough. Rodrigo locked the door, keeping his back to her. Mariah stood behind him, waiting on pins and needles. Backing up, he bumped into her and turned to face her. His perplexed expression told her that he didn’t expect her to be standing so close. She placed her hand on his arm, squeezing it. Her heart beat wildly. Her breath caught in her throat. She willed herself to go through with this. He looked away. A muscle worked in his jaw. “You’re not going to make me sleep alone, are you?” Her voice trembled, betraying her doubts and fears. Rodrigo’s head snapped around, and his mouth dropped open. His brown eyes captured hers, and she met his gaze. He almost seemed uncertain. Rodrigo? Impossible? “Huh?”

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“Will you be my Latin lover tonight?” A combination of emotions did a rumba across his face. “I’d be honored to be your lover, Mariah.” She smiled, no backing out now. “Are you sure?” Rodrigo croaked. “I think so.” Mariah’s voice was quiet. “I...I feel like my stomach has taken up sky diving and my legs have been swirled around in a blender. I don’t think it’s the margaritas talking either.” Moving closer until only a whisper of air separated them, he brushed his lips across her hair. “I’ll take care of you. This will be a night neither of us will ever forget, baby. I promise you.” “I need you.” Rodrigo licked his lips. His pupils dilated, and a fine sheen of sweat broke out on his skin. He stroked her shoulders, as his eyes studied her. “Teach me how to make love, Rodrigo. Teach me how to please you.” Her trembling hand touched the collar of his shirt. “Show me how good it should feel.” She lowered her eyes and gazed at him through her long lashes. “Do you still want me?” “Are you joking? I feel like a school boy on his first hot date. I want it to be so perfect for you, so special. Oh, God, I’ve wanted you in so many ways I can’t even begin to articulate them in my mind. I’ve wanted to bury myself inside you from the day I met you.” Mariah rubbed against his hardness, dragging a moan from deep in his throat. He wrapped his arms around her and held her close. She closed her eyes and nuzzled the skin exposed by his open collar. “I don’t think I'll have much to teach you.” Lifting one foot, she stroked his calf with her leg then wrapped it around his thigh, her favorite trick. With a muffled groan, his lips latched onto her neck. She tilted her head to give him better access. He branded her skin with his hungry mouth, planting kisses on her neck and shoulders. She’d have marks tomorrow, but who cared. Panting, he pulled his head back to regard her with serious intent. “Baby, you know I can’t promise you a future, don’t you? I can’t even promise you anything beyond next week. I'm not in a position to be with someone who needs her feelings reciprocated. I can’t give that to you. I

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don’t have it in me. My life is in too much turmoil to drag another person into it.” Mariah raked her mouth across his stubble until she reached his lips. “I’m not asking you for a diamond ring, Rigo. I’m asking you for tonight. I don’t care about tomorrow or the future. You’re here with me now, and I want you.” And stupid girl that she was, she'd fallen love with him. Mariah rubbed her mouth against his, erasing the last bit of his token resistance. He took over and claimed her, writing his name all over her. Instinctively, she matched his passion with her innocent desire, giving back as good as she got. Time, stress, other people and things slipped away in the dark of the night, leaving just the two of them. This man unleashed deep emotions once dormant inside her. She closed her eyes as she felt his mouth move away from her lips down to her neck and shoulders. He lowered the straps on her dress. His big hands rubbed the points of her shoulders. One slipped behind her back. She heard her zipper and felt the dress loosen around her body. Her breath caught, and her heart quickened. Rodrigo hooked his index finger in her bodice between her modest cleavage. He pulled downward in slow motion, exposing her creamy skin. The dress hung momentarily on her aroused nipples. With one more tug, it pooled around her hips. His fingers grazed her skin, pausing to circle her belly button. She gasped, trying to breathe. Rodrigo paused and surveyed her half-naked body with an approving smile. Lowering his head, he teased a pink nipple, flicking it with his tongue then licking. His thumb and forefinger rolled and pinched her other nipple. Mariah grabbed his head and pulled him closer. He caught her nipple in his mouth, playing it with his tongue. She clutched him tighter. He sucked harder taking in more of her while his tongue caressed the tip lightly. His hungry lips and his feather-light tongue drove her out of her mind. She was dying. Wild and loose and without shame, she wanted more. Needed more. She never imagined that she could feel this out of control and turned on. She moaned with desire and begged him not to stop. The room circled around her like she was on a carousel. The floor disappeared under her feet. He switched breasts, kissing a path to the other one. Panting, Mariah looked down. One erect nipple glistened with his saliva, the other was swallowed by his mouth.

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One last nudge from Rodrigo and the dress fell unnoticed to the floor in a heap around her bare ankles. He brought his mouth back to hers. One hand still teased her breast. The other rubbed her hip bone. Whimpering, she arched her back. “I've been waiting my entire lifetime for this moment.” Mariah didn’t answer, couldn’t answer. She massaged his chest with her breasts, enticing him to continue. He took her up on her offer and planted more kisses on her neck, at times nipping her lightly or using his experienced tongue. “What do you want me to do to you, Mariah?” His voice was husky with lust. Mariah hesitated, overtaken by churning emotions. Standing on tiptoes, she kissed him deeply, plundering his mouth with her tongue. He let her have her way with him. She drew him closer to her, wanting to find a way to slip through his defenses into his very heart, his very soul. His fingers, his aftershave, his gravelly voice, his skin bombarded her senses. Her gaze fluttered upward to his eyes, her voice soft and seductive. “What do you want to do to me, big guy?” “Everything... I want to know every square inch of you.” “I want you to know all of me.” To accentuate her point, she massaged his crotch with her hips. “Rye, you’re killing me. One minute you’re as innocent as a school girl, the next you’re as hot as a porn star.” “Which one do you prefer? School girl or porn star?” she teased with a throaty laugh. His stubble abraded her soft cheek. The prickly caress devoured the last of her good sense. “Well, I did have this Catholic school girl fantasy once, but considering I’m fully clothed and all you’re wearing is a G-string, I guess we’ll go with the porn star tonight.” “Are you accusing me of being derelict in my duties?” She laid a hand on his chest. “I’m sure we’ll rectify that soon enough.” She opened her mouth to flip a smart answer back to him, but he started touching her again. She forgot what she was going to say. His lips and hands roamed freely over her body. When Mariah offered no protest, he began to

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explore more intimate locations. His hands stole under her skirt and cupped her bottom, squeezing and stroking her. “Feel how much I want you, mi amor.” He rubbed himself against her, and she ground her hips into his. “Keep that up and it’ll be all over before I have a chance to unzip my jeans.” “You started it, cowboy.” His only response was a muffled growl and a nip on her shoulder causing her to yelp in surprise. Overcome by desire, Mariah embarked on her own exploration. After unbuttoning every button, she pushed his shirt off his shoulders and exposed his chest. Her eyes drank in the hard muscles and planes dusted with dark hair. Her fingers glided down his collarbone, pausing to circle his nipples, and across his flat stomach until they rested on his fly. His sharp intake of breath pleased her and excited her. Two could play this game. He wanted her as much as she wanted him. Resuming her journey, she pulled his shirttail out of his pants. Rodrigo shrugged it off his shoulders and tossed it to the floor. His upper body fascinated her. How could such strength hold such gentleness? Her fingers sashayed upward, stroking every bulge and rippling muscle. She lapped at his shoulders and chest with her tongue like a cat devouring a tasty bowl of cream. Rodrigo put his hand under her chin and pulled her lips back to his. His kisses grew hungrier, more demanding. Their mouths mated in a wild, primitive dance. Their bare upper bodies rubbed against each other and forced them further into their mindless passion. Breathless, Rico aroused her with his experienced hands, sensuous lips, and powerful body. She was behaving like a bad girl, a very bad girl. She’d always been a good girl. She shouldn’t be doing this. The rest of her mind and body shut out that one small voice until it was forgotten. That voice of reason stood no chance during a time of lust. “Mariah,” Rodrigo whispered into her mouth. “God, you are hot. I gotta have you, Mariah.” He picked her up and cradled her in his arms. She clung to him, wrapping her arms around his neck. He carried her into the bedroom, kissing her the whole time. “You’re making me crazy, baby.”

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He laid her tenderly on the bed. Drunk with love, she sprawled there, lazily regarding him with half-lidded eyes. Rodrigo unzipped his fly, his mocha eyes never leaving hers. He stripped his jeans with the efficiency of a man on a mission. Grinning at her, he pulled his underwear down over his hips and kicked his clothes out of the way. The reality of her situation slammed her back to earth’s atmosphere. Mariah stared at him in abject horror. It was so huge. Clutching the blanket, she scooted further up the bed, closer to the headboard. Judging by the puzzled and hurt expression on his face, her negative reaction to his size was an unfamiliar experience to him. She couldn’t take her eyes off his huge cock. Compared to Rodrigo, Warren had looked like a short, stubby pencil. Maybe that’s why Jamal always called him a little prick. Guys probably had a sixth sense about stuff like that. Did guys with big pricks command more respect? She didn’t have clue, but there was no way that thing would fit. Warren, the little prick, had hurt her because of her tightness. That thing would never work. Never. “Rye?” Rodrigo questioned her. He knelt at the foot of the bed, absently rubbing her ankles. “It won’t fit,” she choked. Her eyes were glued to his midsection. A soft smile gentled the corners of his mouth, “Of course, it will. We’ll make sure it does.” “It’s too big.” He tried his best to look serious. “At the risk of permanently damaging my male ego, I have to admit that I’m not unusually large.” “You look enormous to me.” “Well, thanks, but I’m not.” The man actually had the decency to look embarrassed. “It’ll hurt.” “Baby, I promise. I’ll take care of you. I’ll go slow. You’ll adjust to me. Trust me.” His words didn’t convince her one bit. The earlier spell broken, she fought against the panic rising inside her. Oh, no. Oh no. Oh no. She couldn’t believe this was happening. She thought it would be different with Rigo. She thought she’d be okay. But she wasn’t, she was scared to death.

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Scared that he’d hurt her, or she wouldn’t be good enough, or he’d be disappointed, and she’d be a failure once again. Rodrigo crawled toward her on his hands and knees. She drew back but had nowhere left to go. He stroked her hair, concern etched on his face. Mariah stared at him, not looking anywhere but his eyes. She attempted to ignore his nakedness, refusing to look at that thing again. “I’m scared.” Her voice was no more than a croak. Her fear paralyzed her. “Tell me what you want me to do. Do you want to stop? You’d better make up your mind right away because I may not be able to stop if we get much further.” Mariah shook her head. She had to trust Rodrigo to help her. “No, I want to do this. I need to do this. Please, just kiss me and be gentle with me. Set me free, Rigo. Please. You’re the only man who can.” A tender smile played at the corners of his mouth. He kissed her with great care and passion. She felt like a China doll that he was trying his best not to break. She closed her eyes and took deep breaths, concentrating on his caresses. Drifting away, she lost herself again in the sensation of his body against hers and his masterful lips and hands. He eased her lace underwear down her hips and past her knees and ankles. Attempting to distract her, he kissed her mouth, her neck, her shoulders, her breasts. “I need this, Mariah. I need you.” The gravel in his voice betrayed the extreme control he exercised on his emotions. “I ache to be inside you.” His lips and teeth teased her. He slipped his hands below her waist. One hand caressed her back and the roundness of her butt. His other hand found its way between her legs. He stroked her thighs, his fingers moving higher, seeking heaven. Mariah clamped her legs together out of habit. Yet, she could feel her wetness, feel how hot she was for him. “You have my hand in a vise grip, baby. Loosen up.” His soft accented voice cajoled her. A remote part of her foggy brain registered that his accent grew stronger the more turned on he became. She loosened her legs, allowing him to touch her. She wanted to trust him. He sat back on his haunches, his eyes smoldered with unleashed heat. His gaze focused between her legs. Mariah looked away from him, feeling exposed and vulnerable. She squirmed, but resisted closing her legs.

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“It’s okay, baby. You’ll like this.” Stretching out beside her, he ran his index finger through the moist curls. His free hand milked a nipple while his mouth fastened onto the other. He teased her with his fingers and stroked her wet slit until her body instinctively responded. Shifting his position, he straddled her body. His fingers parted her, opening her to him. She tensed when one long finger entered her. He took his time, massaging her, sliding in deeper with each stroke. Dragging his mouth from her nipple, he gasped. “You okay, Rye? That feel good?” Surprisingly, it did feel good, really good. The intimate stroking of his finger sent little waves of pleasure shuddering through her. Rodrigo sunk his finger up to his knuckle, slipping easily through her wetness. Gaining a little confidence, she relaxed by a degree. He took advantage and eased a second finger inside her. It was little uncomfortable at first, but her body adjusted. Using his thumb, he stroked that spot guaranteed to drive her insane. She arched, spread her legs wider, took his fingers deeper. He moved his fingers in and out, faster and faster, picking up speed, and pulling her to the brink. Over the edge. The sensations overwhelmed her. She begged him to stop with her voice while her body begged him to go, go, go. He guided her to the edge and sent her over the other side. She soared, leaving reality behind and entering a world of erotic pleasure. Rodrigo let her enjoy it, savor it. She whimpered and writhed underneath him, grabbing him and trying to pull him down to her. Her fingernails dug into his back as her body shuddered uncontrollably. Her eyes glazed over, and she stared at him in wonder. Her erratic breathing barely drowned out the thumping of her heart. He held her close. She felt him smile against her shoulder. “Did you like that, sweetheart?” “Sí, very much.” “Was it a first?” “Yes. You are good.” “I aim to please.” He shifted his body, using his legs to spread her thighs wider. His erection pressed against her thigh. His entire body was strung as tight as a bow. His chest grazed the tips of her breasts, as he kissed her.

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Moving underneath him, she tormented him with her body. Their skin glistened with sweat, and they slid over one another easily like the welllubed parts of a machine. He transported her to mindless oblivion with his hands, his mouth, and his tongue. Mariah stared into his compassionate and caring eyes. Even with his assurances and gentle treatment, her fear tiptoed back when she felt his cock probing her opening. She instinctively tried to lock her thighs together, but his legs held them apart. “Rye, trust me. I won’t hurt you. Try to relax. You’re ready, you’ll be okay. It won’t hurt. I didn’t hurt you with my fingers, did I?” She shook her head. “Then I won’t hurt you when I’m inside you either. You’re sooo ready for me. So wet.” Rodrigo nudged her legs further apart with his knees. Mariah tried to relax, but her frantic body had a mind of its own. This is Rodrigo. This is the man I was born to love. I’ll be okay. He’ll take care of me. I’ll be okay, she repeated over and over like a mantra. He entered her, just the tip. She almost lost it in panic. Everything inside her tensed. She started to struggle. “It’s okay, Baby. It’s okay.” Mariah dug her fingernails into his shoulders and squeezed her eyes shut. Her terror threatened to overwhelm her. “Be careful, please. Don’t....” “Relax. Relax, baby. Feel me. Enjoy it.” Rodrigo sunk inside her as slowly and gently as the raging inferno in his own body would allow. He kissed her deeply. “Just hang on. Hang on.” Hang on? If she buried her fingers any deeper in his shoulders, they’d be permanently embedded. Her eyes locked with his. She braced herself for unending pain, but it didn’t materialize. In slow degrees her body accepted then welcomed the intrusion. Rodrigo withdrew almost completely then gently entered her time and again, deeper with each stroke. He spoke softly to her in Spanish. She didn't understand a word of it, but she loved it. The words didn’t matter, because they didn’t need words between them. With each slow thrust, the heat increased a few degrees at a time until she begged for more. Whimpering uncontrollably, she grasped his bottom. Her long legs wrapped around him. Instinctively, her hips rose to meet his. Rodrigo accepted the invitation issued by her body. He buried himself inside

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her welcoming warmth. The flames of their passion rose higher and higher. She urged him deeper into her. With an instinct as old as human history, their bodies mated, finding their natural rhythm. She couldn’t get enough, yet it was too much. They rode a tidal wave of passion until the two of them didn’t exist separately. Mariah lifted her eyes to meet his intense gaze. For a fleeting moment in time, they connected with each other. There was a knowing, a homecoming, a feeling that they had both found the missing piece of the puzzle that made up their lives. Fate had brought them together on this island where magical things happened. Time ceased to have meaning. All that existed in this place were these two people. A moment became a lifetime and a lifetime became a moment. She knew him, and he knew her with a familiarity born of a hundred lifetimes together. Mariah experienced a flash of completeness and contentment. His thoughts and emotions flowed through her as if they were her own. She felt every breath he took, how it filled his lungs then flowed back out of his body. There was no question in her mind that he experienced the same sensations. She had never known such an incredible feeling of oneness with another person. The emotions were so strong, so profound, that she would have stopped them if she could because it was too intense, too hot, too incredible. They climbed higher and higher together, crying out each other’s names. The intensity of their passion for each other drove them to fulfillment. Waves upon waves of raw passion pulsed through her. She flew without wings, breathed without air, and loved without fear. Rodrigo shuddered and emptied himself inside her. They both collapsed, their breath coming in short gasps as they clung to each other. Quiet enveloped the room except for their labored breathing. Rodrigo rolled onto his back, pulling Mariah with him so that her bare upper body lay across his and her silky hair fanned out across his chest. “You complete me,” he whispered as he dozed off. “You complete me, Mariah.” **** Mariah’s head rested on his bare chest, one leg wrapped around his thigh. He must have fallen asleep for a minute. Absently, he caressed her

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butt. The tension and worry had drained out of him. Nothing really mattered but this incredibly giving woman lying next to him. Rico couldn’t remember when and if he’d ever felt so content, so satisfied, so fulfilled—even with Carmen. Rico yawned and opened his eyes to find Mariah watching him. “You look pleased with yourself, bella.” With great tenderness, he traced the contours of her sweet face with his index finger. Whisker burns graced her face, breasts, and other parts of her soft, warm body. He loved branding her as his. “You don’t think any less of me, do you, Rigo?” Rico chuckled. “Are you kidding? Why would I do that?” “I’ve never behaved like this before. I don’t want you thinking I do this all the time.” “I know you don’t, Mariah. I could tell.” “How could you tell?” “Because everything we did, you were a little tentative at first then you’d get braver. The innocence that comes through. Its very endearing.” “I had no idea it could be like this. You liked it too, right?” “Liked it?” Now there was the ultimate understatement. “Baby, I loved it.” “I thought you did.” She traced the muscles in his arm and chest with her fingers, fascinated by the contours of his body. Rico watched her with interest. “Men are pretty transparent when it comes to sex. And you? Do you get this turned on by any man?” His tone was teasing, yet with a serious undertone. He needed to hear her answer. The indignant look on Mariah’s face amused him. “No. You know that. I’ve never done much, most of this is new to me.” “Well, you catch on fast. What did you feel, Mariah? I told you, now it’s your turn.” Mariah’s eyes met his. She looked as if she was going to cry. “Thank you.” Rico chuckled. “Don’t thank me, it was my pleasure. Is it hard for you to talk about stuff like this?” Mariah nodded. She buried her face in his chest and cuddled closer to him.

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“It’ll get easier. Just give us time. Did that bastard rape you, Mariah?” Mariah’s beautifully expressive eyes met his. “Not really. He just didn’t do anything to get me ready, especially the first time. It hurt so much that after that I was scared to death, and it hurt even more. I think he got some kind of perverse pleasure out of causing me pain. He hurt me on purpose and enjoyed every minute of it. I didn’t want to do it after the first time, but I felt like such a failure that I tried to cooperate with him. I only saw the tip of his abusive nature. He hid it so well for so long. I was lucky to get out when I did.” “I hope I never meet him.” His clenched his hands into fists. Reining in his temper, he softened his expression. “I guess you must know now that it doesn’t have to be like that.” Mariah laughed at him, “Yes, you’ve probably spoiled me for any other man.” The idea of Mariah with another man irritated him. “Good.” Now why did he say that? “Are you sore?” “A little, but it’s a good feeling. I know that sounds odd, but it serves as a reminder of what we had together.” Rico kissed her forehead. “Well, Rye, I’m not leaving for a while. We aren’t done yet, are we?” “I hope not.” “I don’t know if I’ll ever be done with you.” The words spilled out of him before he could stop them. “Somehow, I knew it would be like this between us.” They lay in silence for a while, each lost in their own thoughts. “Rigo?” “Yeah?” “I love it when you talk dirty to me in Spanish.” “How do you know I’m talking dirty to you if you don’t understand Spanish?” She giggled. “It sounded dirty to me. I can use my imagination. I don’t need to understand what you’re saying.” They’d rested long enough, and if Spanish turned her on, well, there was more where that came from. Rico put his arms on her waist and pulled her along his body so he could kiss her, a wet deep kiss that tingled all the way down to his toes. He planted butterfly kisses on her face. She moaned and wriggled her hips against his. He kissed a trail down her body, across her

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breasts, and stomach. Gently spreading her legs apart, he kissed her inner thighs. “What are you doing?” she said dreamily as she felt his mouth on the most intimate part of her body. “No one’s ever done this to you before?” “No.” “Oh, baby...Oh, baby...Oh, baby...” He said and proceeded to educate her.

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Chapter 12 The Goodbye Rico woke up in the middle of the night next to a soft, willing female. Not just any female, mind you, but one that made him feel like a teenage boy again. Her enthusiasm and innocence revved his engine like a grand prix race car with an overhauled engine and a full tank of gas. He needed to make love to her a second time just to prove the first hadn’t been an aberration. It wasn’t. Hell, it was even better. Liberated from her fear, Mariah grew bolder and less inhibited with every passing minute. Rico rolled onto his back, and pulled her across his body to straddle his hips. She bent down to kiss him and caress his chest, rendering him senseless. Her long, silky hair tickled his skin. Instinctively, she knew where he loved to be touched and just how to touch him. She sent him to a testosterone-induced heaven. He slid her down onto his cock and helped her find her rhythm as their bodies did an erotic tango together. Dawn came too soon. The world outside began to wake up. He’d slept a long and dreamless sleep. Who needed dreams when you had an angel in your bed? Her slender body hugged his side and her hair was tangled around his arm. One small hand rested on his chest. He’d captured one of her long legs between his thighs. Rico kept his eyes closed, fighting against the reality of a new day. Last night, he’d been caught up in the lust. Now, the magic of the previous night faded to a fond memory. Uneasy, he snuck out of bed and pulled on his jeans. He walked outside to the bow of the boat and lit a cigarette, inhaling deeply. He’d forgotten to put on a condom that first time. He’d never forgotten something as important as that before. Where had his head been? Okay, that was a stupid question with an obvious answer.

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The second time he fumbled for his jeans to find one. She told him she was on the pill, gave some female reason that it made her periods more regular or something. Like it mattered to him. He was just grateful she wouldn’t get pregnant. A baby was the last thing he needed. Something went still inside him. Would it be so bad? He loved kids. He’d always assumed he’d have a houseful, but time kept marching on. Rico leaned against the railing and breathed in the cool morning air, trying clear his head. Mariah, as the mother of his babies? He had to quit thinking those kinds of thoughts. Uncertainty snuffed out his earlier contentment. Like spotlights on a stage, his confused feelings changed colors and intensity with amazing speed. Exhilarated. Ecstatic. Amazed. Scared. Vulnerable. Exposed. He couldn’t digest them all. What had she done to him? She’d touched him. Not just physically, but on a deeper level. Mariah had slipped past his defenses like a thief in the night. She reached that part of him he’d long given up for dead, or at least missing in action. He’d felt her there—in the place he concealed from the world, from himself. In his heart. In his soul. He stashed his secret emotions, dreams, and fears in that place. They were buried so deep, even he hadn’t been able to find them until she’d opened that door. He’d felt her, too. Her insecurities, her loneliness, her passions. The logical side of him denied such a connection between two people could exist. His soul knew the truth. To allow someone inside forced him to relinquish control over his heart. It gave them free rein to hurt him, to betray him. No one would play him for a fool again. Been there, done that with his father, his brother, Carmen, and all those people he’d considered friends before the gravy train ran out. He couldn't afford her, not monetarily and certainly not for the effect she could have on his heart. One by one, Rico stuffed his vulnerabilities back inside that place. He locked them up and threw away the key. She wouldn’t get in there again. From this point forward, he’d restrict his interest in her to companionship, entertainment, and sex.

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“What’s up, Angel? This better be good.” “Rico, where’ve you been? I’ve been trying to reach you.” “I was boating. Just got back an hour ago. Is something wrong?” “Dad’s back.” “From his honeymoon?” “Yeah. Actually, his wife ran off with a twenty-one-year-old cabana boy she met at the resort. Took his credit cards and a load of cash.” “Oh, shit. Why doesn’t that surprise me? Well, she lasted a few more days than the previous one.” “Rico, he’s back at work, ordering junk like there’s no tomorrow. You know spending money is his cure for a broken heart.” Rico sighed and ran his fingers through his unruly hair, as if that would tame it. “You didn’t process the orders, did you?” “No, but he keeps asking about them.” “What did he order?” “I don’t know where to start. Stuff companies are trying to dump because it didn’t sell last year. Swimsuits that dissolve in water. Orange polyester Bermuda shorts. Stuff like that. You know, real deals.” Rico had to laugh in spite of it all. “Dissolving swimsuits? What’s the problem with that?” He wondered where he could get one of those for Mariah. It’d be great for a hot tub. “Rico, come on.” Angel sounded exasperated. “Okay, sorry. Look, hold him off. I’ll be back in a little over a week. Tell him they backordered the stuff.” “I’ll try, but you know how insistent he is.” “Yeah, I know.” Rico commiserated with her. “By the way, Angel, who gave Ramon my number?” “I did. Have you talked to him?” “Once. I hang up on him, but he’s left me a dozen messages since. The little ass won't take no for an answer.” “You two need to patch your differences.” “That’ll be a cold day in hell. He sold me out, Angel. You remember that, don’t you? He gave the press what they wanted when they were on

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their search and destroy mission. He lied to gain publicity for himself and screwed me over.” “He was young and stupid, Rico. He’s sorry.” “Yeah, right.” “He is. He knows he shouldn’t have told the press those lies.” “Well, it worked for him, didn’t it? They crucified me after his heartfelt TV interview. The little snake. In the process, his CD sales soared. The shithead even won a Grammy the next year at my expense. Meanwhile, the music business blackballed me. No one would touch me. I was like a hair dryer in a bathtub. Stick your hand in there, and you get electrocuted.” “He apologized later and retracted his remarks.” “Yeah, but the damage was done. No one believed him when he told the truth. They thought he did it under pressure from his family. I don’t want to talk about him anymore. I need to go. Stay in touch.” **** Mariah opened her door that evening to find Rodrigo standing there with a bouquet of red roses in one hand and an overnight bag in the other. “Thank you. They’re beautiful.” Mariah took the flowers and gave him a kiss on the cheek. “I missed you, bella.” “You just saw me five hours ago.” “It was a long five hours.” Mariah looked at the bag in his hand. “What’s the bag for?” “I thought we were having a sleepover.” “You and I?” “Well, yeah. I wasn’t planning on inviting anyone else to join us. I don't share.” “Rigo....” Mariah squirmed uncomfortably. What was she doing? This man was trouble with a capitol T. Rodrigo’s face fell. “You don’t want me to stay the night, Rye?” Mariah hesitated. She’d already dived in the deep end, she might as well tread water a little longer before she drowned. Impulsively, she moved into his arms. “Yes, yes, I do.”

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He stroked her hair then wrapped a large handful around his hand and pulled her head back gently to look in her eyes. She leaned into him and waited expectantly for his mouth to find hers. He kissed the tip of her nose and the corners of her lips, evading her mouth. Frustrated with his teasing, a small moan rose inside her. The corner of his mouth crooked in a tiny smile, but he wouldn’t end the game and kiss her. “You want something, baby?” “You know I do.” She pressed harder against him. “Man, what a difference twenty-four hours can make.” Satisfaction gleamed in his dark eyes. He loved making her want him. Later that evening, they drove into nearby Eastsound to have dinner at an intimate inn on the water. Rodrigo stopped at a grocery store and bought a couple bottles of wine on the way back to Mariah's house. They wrapped up in a blanket on the porch swing and watched the sun set over the water and the stars come out while they finished off a bottle of wine. All seemed right with Mariah’s world. Rodrigo felt comfortable like an old shoe, not that he looked like one. She spoke her mind to him, and he listened. He didn’t belittle her or tell her she was stupid because she had a different point of view. They seemed compatible in so many ways. Maybe opposites did attract, but compatibility lasted. Rodrigo had told her that she completed him. She knew the feeling because she felt it, too. They connected with each other in ways she couldn’t begin to decipher or understand, and they’d only tapped the surface of that connection. “So tell me,” he said with a grin on his face, “something I don’t know about you.” She snuggled closer to his chest and smiled. “There are lots of things you don’t know about me.” “Name one?” he baited her, waiting expectantly for what she would come up with next. “I’m addicted to clothes.” “I know that.” “I’d like to take you shopping, get you a good haircut, and clean you up a bit...Well, maybe a lot.” He laughed. “What? You don’t like my clothes? I’m deeply hurt.”

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“No, you’re not. If I thought this look was really you, I wouldn’t change it for the world, but I don’t think it is.” “What makes you think this isn’t me?” “Oh, I think some days it is you, but most days I think you probably have better taste in clothes than this. Call it a gut feeling.” Rodrigo laughed. “Okay, Princess, tell me something I really don’t know.” Before she could answer, Rodrigo’s cell phone rang. “Damn, I thought I’d turned that thing off.” He grabbed it, checked the number and shut it off. “Who was it?” “My brother. Calls me all the time, acts like we’re buddies.” “Rigo, you’re hurting yourself by harboring this resentment toward him.” “Resentment?” His eyes flashed with anger. She’d hit a sore spot. “I don’t resent him. He doesn’t have one thing that I want.” “Then why don’t you forgive him? He’s your brother. I would give anything for a brother or sister.” Actually, she’d give anything for a family. “Well, I’m not you, am I?” She flinched at the sarcasm in his voice. He had no idea how it felt to be alone in the world. She loved her friends, but family stuck by you no matter what, the one constant in an ever-changing world. They put up with all of your faults and idiosyncrasies and forgave your mistakes. She swallowed a lump in her throat. Why hadn’t she fallen in love with a normal man? One that wanted to settle down, get married, have kids, that type of thing? No, she had to make her life even more difficult. She fell for a guy who avoided commitment like she avoided polyester. “I’m sorry. That was uncalled for. You don’t understand my family, Mariah. It’s so complicated.” “Then explain it to me.” He shook his head. The shutters fell over his eyes, and he locked her out, pushing her to the perimeter of his world. She sighed. “At least you have a family.” “Yeah. Yeah, I do. As dysfunctional as they are, they’re mine.” Rodrigo’s dark eyes met hers. He lifted her chin with his index finger. He tilted his head down to hers and kissed her tenderly. His lips lingered on hers long after the kiss was over. Mariah touched his face, sliding the back of her hand over his stubbled cheek. She let her hand trail down to the open

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neck of his shirt. With tentative fingers, she unbuttoned each button. Rodrigo froze and held his breath. Mariah glanced at him. His eyes burned with the same intensity she’d seen the night before. She looked down, engrossed in finishing the job she had started. She pulled his shirt out of his jeans and pushed it off of his shoulders. Rodrigo leaned forward to accommodate her as she removed it. Mariah placed her hands on his bare chest, sliding them over the hard flat muscles. She looked up at him questioningly. He smiled encouragement at her but didn’t make a move to touch her or stop her. She ran her fingers over the corded muscles of his arms and chest, exploring his fit body. He pulled her silk blouse over her head and threw it aside, exposing a dainty lace camisole. Gently, she pushed him down. “It’s my turn tonight. Can I practice on you?” she whispered in a sultry voice guaranteed to make his blood boil. “I guess I’ll make that sacrifice.” A soft moan escaped from his mouth as Mariah straddled his body. Bending down, she covered his lips with hers. A fine sweat broke out over his body. An owl hooted from a nearby tree, reminding Mariah of where they were. “Do you think anyone can see us?” Rodrigo’s eyes scanned the area, concern darkened his face. “Let’s go inside.” Mariah stood up and grabbed his hand. Together they stepped through the open French doors into the bedroom. Rodrigo sat down on the edge of the bed and pulled her onto his lap. Giggling, Mariah struggled to get free of him. “Rigo, lie down and behave for a minute.” “Now, why would I want to do that?” Yet, even as he said it, he obeyed her. She stood up and locked eyes with him. “I said it was my turn tonight. Let’s see how good of a teacher you are.” “Let’s see how good of a pupil you are.” Mariah removed her camisole in one fluid motion. Every movement was temptingly slow and pleasantly agonizing. She relished her new role as a tease, maybe because Rodrigo seemed to be enjoying it so much. His grin was as wide as the Columbia River. Gaining confidence in leaps and bounds, she stripped for her scruffy Latin lover. She tossed each article of clothing carelessly at him. Her bra landed on his forehead, and her panties

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draped across one shoulder. Mariah moved to the bed. Her nerve endings itched with anticipation. For a moment she stood there, suddenly uncertain. Rodrigo batted her bra away from his face and held his arms out to her. She fell on top of him, laughing until she lost herself in his kisses. Mariah broke the kiss and removed his remaining clothes. With Rodrigo’s full support, she did things to him that she’d never considered doing to another man. Shy at first, she grew bolder as she gained confidence. She controlled their lovemaking, and he surrendered his body to her. Lowering herself down onto him, she sheathed him inside her body. Her hips stroked him, up and down, taking him deeper. Sitting up, he held her hands, supporting her as she leaned backwards and wrapped her long legs around his waist. She took him higher and higher. She knocked on the door to his soul again, needing more from him. Greedy for everything. He kept her out this time, satisfying her physically, but not spiritually. Her tightness convulsed around him as he released himself inside her. She clung to him, panting from the exertion and excitement. Rodrigo flopped onto his back. She collapsed on top of him. A soft breeze fluttered through the open door, cooling them down. He wrapped their naked bodies in a blanket. They giggled and laughed as they tripped and stumbled over the blanket on their way outside to seat themselves again on the old porch swing. They talked into the wee hours of the night about their dreams, their insecurities, and their philosophies on life in between those deep, wet kisses. A physical and spiritual bond had been forged the night before, but the ties that were being woven that night that would be even harder to break. Over the next few days, Mariah and Rodrigo settled into a comfortable pattern. Mariah spent her mornings with her horses and giving Rico his lesson. She worked on her interior design projects in the afternoons while Rico went back to his house to take care of personal business. The evenings and the nights belonged to the two of them. Rodrigo cooked if they stayed home, which was fine with her. His cooking was much better than hers. In fact, he concocted an impressive Puerto Rican feast one night for Mariah, Eva, and Jamal. One morning, she moved his shaving cream out of her way in her search for her birth control pills. Picking up his underwear, she put it in her clothes hamper. Startled, Mariah looked around her house. His shabby clothes hung

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in her closet. He’d taken over a drawer in her dresser. His shampoo perched on a shelf in her shower. His cologne sat on the bathroom counter. Little by little, in the past few days, the man had moved himself into her house. Sitting down on the edge of her bathtub, Mariah hugged herself tightly. If this was a dream, she didn’t ever want to wake up. She wanted to stay like this forever with him by her side. Couldn’t she have that one wish? Hadn’t she lost enough people in her life? She’d never ask for anything again. She loved him so much. They could make this work somehow. She knew they could. A single tear slipped down her cheek and fell on the bathroom tile. **** Rico’s return to Los Angeles couldn’t be avoided. Angel could only hold their father back for so long. That man could ruin a healthy multimillion-dollar business in a week, given half the chance. His business wasn’t that healthy. Rico and Mariah spent their last few days boating to the outlying islands that the ferry didn’t service. Anchoring in secluded little coves, they walked in the old growth forests on Matia Island. They searched for signs of the old hermit’s farm on Sucia Island. After hiking to the one-room schoolhouse on Stuart Island, they stood on the cliffs overlooking Haro Strait with Victoria, B.C., in the distance. On more than one occasion, Rico tried to tell Mariah his true identity. She would hear nothing of it. Since he didn’t really want to tell her, like a coward, he let it drop. He wasn’t sure why he was so reluctant, maybe because he didn't want anything to change between them, even though it was inevitable that it would. On their last night together, they sat on the flying bridge with a bottle of wine and watched the sunset. He made love to her with a combination of wild desperation and profound tenderness. Afterwards she clung to him, nothing but silence between them. Neither of them could think of any words to make it any easier. A deep sense of sadness permeated through Rico as their relationship unwound in the chilly night. After tomorrow, nothing would be the same.

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The water lapped against the side of the boat and lulled Mariah to sleep. Rico watched her for a long time in the shadows and moonlight. He’d lived a fantasy this past month. Now the real world demanded his return. He sighed and buried his face in her hair. A tear slid down his cheek. This woman had burrowed under his skin, in his blood. She lived in his dreams, and she lit up his days. He felt her pain so completely, it was as if it was his own. He wondered how he was going to just walk away from her with only a thanks for the nice time. Yet, he knew that’s exactly what he had to do. For both of them. **** Rodrigo and Mariah ate lunch together in silence at the small round table in her breakfast nook. His luggage sat by the front door. Mariah tried to find some humor in that. She wondered why he wasted his time packing those clothes. The garbage can would have been a better place for them. Rodrigo fidgeted with his fork and toyed with his food. Mariah held her tongue. She couldn’t think of a word to say that would make this any less painful. “I love you” probably wouldn’t be a good idea unless she wanted him to leave immediately. Laying down the fork and abandoning his food, Rodrigo cleared his throat. He raised his eyes to meet hers. She managed a weak smile, while her heart suffered its first crack. “Mariah, I wish I could tell you that we had a future.” His voice broke, husky and raw with emotion. “But I don’t want to lie to you.” She shook her head and broke contact with those espresso eyes of his. If she looked at him, she’d cry. “Please...don’t. I never expected anything from you. Yet, you gave me an incredible gift, and I’ll always be grateful.” Rodrigo nodded. He rose to his feet, pushed his chair back, and turned away. Shoulders slumped, he carried his luggage to the SUV and loaded it. Mariah didn’t follow him. She stared at the water in the cove and kept her back to the door. Rigo’s footsteps echoed on the hardwood floor. She glanced over her shoulder. He stopped a few feet from her, holding his leather coat in one hand and a small box in the other. Her heart wrenched in her chest. She looked away and dabbed at her eyes with her napkin.

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“Mariah, I have to leave now. I can’t wait any longer.” Standing, she turned to face him. Unshed tears blurred her vision. Take me with you. Her eyes pleaded with him, not daring to speak the words out loud. She swallowed and forced herself not to cry. It was here–-the moment she’d been dreading, the end of her dream summer. Their fate lay in his hands. If he’d asked, she’d have followed him to the ends of the earth. Only he wasn’t asking. Rodrigo shifted his weight from foot to foot. He cleared his throat again and met her gaze. “I have something for you.” He held the small velvet box out to her. Mariah took it gingerly from his hand. She opened it slowly and pulled out a diamond pendant at least a karat in size. “It’s...it’s beautiful.” She sniffled, trying not to choke on the words. “But I can’t take this. It must have cost you a fortune.” “You’ve got to take it. Please. This is nothing compared to what you’ve given to me.” If she’d given so much to him, why was he leaving her? She scolded herself. He’d never promised her anything more than a month of paradise. She’d read more into his actions and words than she should have. Rodrigo took the necklace from her and fastened it around her neck, planting a kiss on top of the diamond that nestled itself between her breasts. “I have something for you, too.” Mariah reached behind her. “This is for you to remember me. Remember us. I’ll never regret the time I spent with you, Rigo.” She handed him a watercolor of the sunset at Matia Island. Rodrigo took the picture from her and stared at it. His dark eyes were misty when he raised them. “This is incredible, just like I remember it, Mariah. Did you paint this?” Mutely, she nodded. “I’ll keep it always, bella. Always. I promise.” “I’m going to miss you.” Her voice sounded strangled. He wrapped his arms around her, holding her as if his very soul depended on it—maybe it did. She knew hers did. Savoring the false security and warmth generated by his arms, she could have stayed there forever. Unfortunately, forever only lasted about sixty more seconds. Rodrigo drew back so he could look at her.

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“You’ve helped me heal. For that I’ll be forever grateful. Now, I have to do the rest myself. If I can’t find the missing pieces of my life, I might as well cut out a part of my heart. An important part. You understand that, don’t you?” “Yes.” What if she was one of his missing pieces? Had he ever stopped to consider that? She had. Mariah clung to him, knowing that it was all crumbling to dust around them. “Before I go, I’ve got to level with you.” He held her tighter, burying his face for a few moments in her hair. “I’m not who you think I am.” “No.” She sobbed into his chest. “I don’t want to know.” He smelled so good, so masculine, so much like her Rigo. Mariah struggled to free herself from his embrace, but it was futile. He was much stronger. Goosebumps broke out on her skin. She shivered, yet she wasn’t cold. Her worst fear was about to be realized. Oh, please, let it be something else. “Rye, calm down. I’m not a serial killer or anything.” “I know that,” she wailed. “I...just don’t want to hear what you have to say.” “Why? I don’t understand.” “Because, I have my suspicions. I don’t want it to be true. I don’t want you to be who I think you are. I want you to be my Rodrigo. I want you to be the guy I love to dance with, the guy who makes me laugh, the guy with the billion-dollar smile, the guy who makes me feel things I never thought I could feel.” The last remains of her fantasy love affair disintegrated with his next words, words she dreaded hearing. His words spoke a truth she knew in her heart, yet denied to her very depth. “My real name is Rico Sanchez.” “No. No! NO!” He couldn’t be Rico Sanchez—that would make him a deceiver of the worst kind, a man who’d say anything to get what he wanted. Her Rodrigo whispered seductive things to her in Spanish. He promised to be her Latin lover. She felt sick. He’d lied to her, concealed an important part of himself, his identity. Her tears soaked his T-shirt. Who he was changed everything. He’d preyed on her naivety, used her for his own pleasure. The crack in her

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heart opened into a fissure, then it broke and scattered into thousands of jagged pieces. Rodrigo sighed. “Rye, you can’t change who I am. I can’t change who I am.” “Why not? You've pretended to be someone else for the last month.” He cringed as her words stung him. She didn’t care. He deserved it. “I didn’t plan on deceiving you. I wanted to be with a woman who was with me because of the person I am, not because of my notoriety or my nonexistent money. Was that too much to ask?” She pulled free of him. “And that makes it okay? You lied to me. You thought you could string me along just like you did your adoring public for years, didn’t you?” “Mariah, let me explain....” “You took advantage of me.” She hated what he’d done, and she hated how susceptible she’d been to his charms. How blind had she been to trust him? When would she ever learn? “I didn’t mean to. I... Look, Mariah, I’m guilty of lying to you this past month. But I tried to tell you who I was, and you didn’t want to hear it. I'm a washed-up Latin superstar. I'm barely making ends meet because most of the money I made went up my nose until I hit rock bottom four years ago.” “A member of your crew was found dead in your hotel room of an overdose. Even worse, she'd been your brother's girlfriend.” “I didn't supply her with anything. I wasn't using that room that night. You need to believe me. To trust me.” “Trust you?” Her indignance fueled her anger. “You expect me to buy that you were the victim? Your deception this last month proves you’re not beyond lying to get what you want. I don’t need your excuses. I may be easy to fool, but I’m not stupid. You’re a fraud, Rico Sanchez.” “I’m sorry. If I’d told you sooner, would it have changed things?” His voice caught. She looked up at him, her vision blurry through her tears. “Yes, it would have. I wouldn’t have fallen for you.” “Mariah...” Rico’s face reflected his guilt. “You need to go now. I knew what was happening. You’re not responsible for my gullibility. I’ll be fine. I’m strong, and I’ll get over this. Good bye, Rodrigo. Rico,” she added as if saying his name sealed their fate.

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He hesitated, but something in her eyes must have warned him to drop it. “Goodbye, Rye.” Not looking back, he turned and trudged to his vehicle. His SUV disappeared down her driveway in a small cloud of dust. That was the slowest she’d ever seen him drive. Disconsolate, she wandered to the barn and entered Sueño’s stall. Her old friend sensed something was wrong. He nickered a comforting welcome to her. The dam broke. Tears streamed down her face. He body shuddered with racking sobs. She threw her arms around Sueño and buried her face in his mane. He nuzzled her with his nose, not understanding her grief but knowing she hurt. In the background an old Garth Brooks song, “The Dance,” played on the barn radio. It couldn’t have been more appropriate, as he sang about how his life was better left to fate because if he’d known how it would all end, he might have missed the dance.

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Chapter 13 The Company Rico went straight to work from the LA airport. The place was in an uproar, slamming him back to reality. His father, distraught over his bimbo wife’s abandonment, had taken his frustration out on the staff. Three of Rico’s best managers stomped out the door as he walked in. Dragging them back to his office, he placated them with raises and promises to keep Ed under wraps. Somehow. Angel bolted through the door as his managers left. “Thank God, you’re back, Rico. I couldn’t stop him. He’s out of control.” She glanced behind her, flipping her long ebony hair off her shoulder. “Did you convince them to stay?” “Yeah. Yeah, I did.” Rico clutched his head with his hands and closed his eyes for a moment. He attempted to recapture some of the tranquility of the San Juans. Yet, those feelings slid through his fingers like water through a funnel. Instead, he felt a raging headache coming on. He cursed the bimbo for dumping his father and leaving him to take care of the fallout. “Where’s Ed?” Rico glanced at his sister. As ambitious as she was beautiful, most men ran for their lives rather than be in the shadow of her strong personality. Angel flopped down on a leather chair and propped her legs on his desk. “Looking over your new acquisition.” “What? What new acquisition?” He didn’t like the wary look in her eyes. This was bad. Really bad. “Before I tell you about that, let’s start with the not-so-good news.” “Go ahead. Let’s get it over with.” “We’re being sued for sexual harassment by the little hottie in the mailroom. She claims Dad’s been hustling her and threatened to fire her if she didn’t sleep with him.”

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“Did he?” “Partially. He’s been hustling her, but he swears he didn’t threaten her.” “I have to admit I believe him. That’s not his style. Is the legal staff on this?” “Yeah.” “So what’s the good news?” His head pounded. The worst hangover in the world never felt this bad. Yet, he hadn’t had a drink in over twenty-four hours, maybe that was the problem. “Well, it isn’t exactly good,” she hedged. “Just spit it out.” “Dad bought controlling shares in Insignia. In other words, you own it.” “Insignia? The recording company?” Angel nodded. She seemed to be fascinated with her fingernail polish. “No way, they’re close to bankruptcy and... Oh, shit, that’s the company that holds Ramon’s contract.” “The same one.” “Where did he get the money for it?” “You don’t want to hear this.” “Go ahead. When you’re done, you can just shoot me.” “He used this company as collateral.” “No way. I would’ve had to sign for that.” Angel nodded. “Are you going to have your own father thrown in jail for fraud?” “Oh, man.” Rico pushed his hair out of his eyes. “The sale can’t be finalized yet.” “No, but there’ll be a heck of a lawsuit if you try to back out now. Not to mention all the adverse publicity.” “What am I going to do with a near-bankrupt recording company?” “What you always do. Find a way to make it work.” **** Rico sat on his balcony in the darkness. The only light came from the tip of his cigarette. He may have sat there for two minutes or two hours. He honestly didn’t know, but the ashtray overflowed with cigarette butts.

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He’d been too busy putting out fires earlier to think about Mariah. Now that’s all he could think about. Empty beer bottles littered the table beside him. He didn’t have any idea how many he’d drank. Instead of a pleasant buzz, all that beer intensified his headache and did nothing to dull the pain in his heart. Leaving her had been the right thing to do-–for both of them. At least that’s what he kept telling himself. That realization didn’t stop him from shedding a few tears for the love that he’d lost. She’d felt so good to him, so right. In fact, she'd made him forget Carmen. Over and over again, he condemned himself to a life that consisted of nothing but work. Even as he wondered why he did it, he knew the answer. Nothing ever lasted. Eventually, love ended and left an empty hole in your heart where the love had been. He knew. He’d been there. He swore he’d never go there again. Not even for her. Love didn’t enter into any of his future plans, and he vowed it never would. Besides, she’d convicted him without a trial and never gave him a chance to explain. Just like the rest of them. He didn’t need that. He didn’t need her. So why did he feel so lousy? He heaved himself out of his chair and staggered into his bedroom. Not bothering to take off his clothes, he threw himself down on his king-sized bed. Even sleep didn’t bring relief. Rico woke up several times during the night missing the feel of Mariah’s soft warm body tangled in his. He kept reaching for her, but she wasn’t there. His aunt woke him up at 5:30 am. She needed bail money for her worthless son, then his cousin needed several thousand to tide her over until she found another job—the story of her life. Within an hour, he'd spoken to most of his extended family. Every one of them wanted money in some form or other. For once he could honestly say he didn't have any to give them. Finally, he stumbled into the conference room of the small offices owned by his new recording company. He was an hour late for the strategy meeting with the company executives, and he didn’t give a shit. Slumping into a chair, he regarded the people at the conference table with indifference. He crossed his arms in a defensive gesture, daring any of them to say a word. His tall body slouched lower, relaying quite effectively an “I don’t give a damn” attitude.

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His father was flirting with a young woman at the table. Ramon sat next to him. He should have guessed Ramon would be involved in this somehow. Rico ignored his brother and focused the heat of his gaze on his father. He resented his Ed’s interference in his life. He knew why the old man had bought this company and forged his name on the paperwork. Several reasons. He ticked them off one-by-one in his brain: to get him back into the music business, to make him work with Ramon, lastly, and most importantly, to force him to write music again. His father probably had some romantic idea that Rico Sanchez songs would rescue Insignia. The sooner he set everyone in the room straight, the sooner he could make sense of the rest of his life. Eduardo spoke first, bravely—or was that stupidly—going where no man in the room wanted to go. Bumbling and blustering, he opened his mouth. “Rico, I think I can plot a turnaround, but it’ll involve a major promotional plan. We have appearances lined up for Ramon that’ll keep him busy for the next several years. We’ll schedule you to attend every crucial industry event.” Rico said nothing. “Insignia can become a major player in the business eventually. We need your input, your creativity....” “Do we now?” He paused for emphasis and looked at each person in the room. “My father doesn’t have any decision-making responsibilities. Is that clear?” “Rico! You can’t do that!” His father stood up to protest, but Rico’s ice cold glare forced him to sit back down. “I just did it. I own this company, right? I bought it with my money, right?” Eduardo sputtered, totally at a loss for words. He couldn’t deny his son's words because on paper Rico did own the company. “I want to see Insignia’s financial records. I want a rundown of what artists are signed to contracts and for how long. I want to see where they are on the charts. Get me a list of employees and their duties. Who’s expendable and who isn’t.” Ramon started to open his mouth. After one blistering look from Rico, he promptly shut it.

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“Ramon, you’re the company’s biggest star.” God, he hated to admit that. “You need to finish your next CD, yesterday. Understand?” “Uh huh.” Ramon nodded, swallowing nervously. He glanced at their father. A little thrill of triumph ran through Rico. This wasn’t going the way Ramon and Ed had planned. He hadn't wanted this company, but he was stuck with it. He'd be damned if he was letting it go under without a fight. Besides, it'd take him down with it. “Regarding the information I need, I expect everything to be emailed or delivered to my house by 8:00 P.M. tonight. Are there any questions?” Several heads nodded solemnly. A slow smile crept across Rico’s face. For the first time in years, he felt good about the direction he was heading, even if he didn’t have a clue what direction that actually was. At least, he controlled his destiny. Mariah would have been proud of him. Rico rose to his feet and left the room. He strode down the hall and out of the building. Damn, taking control was pretty empowering. Unfortunately, that good feeling evaporated once he climbed behind the wheel of his little sports car. His mind drifted back to a certain green-eyed beauty. It hadn’t even been twenty-four hours since he’d last seen her. God, he missed her. **** A few weeks later, Rico sat on his patio, strumming his guitar. He’d finished the song he’d started in the San Juans. Discovery was a song about loving and losing, finding yourself again, and changing your priorities. A bittersweet feeling filled him. This song was a winner, one of his best. He’d never written it if it hadn’t been for Mariah. Turning on the recorder, Rico sang the song from beginning to end. As he strummed the last note on his guitar, applause erupted behind him. He jerked around in his chair, scowling. His sister and brother stood behind him. Rico reached over and flipped off the tape recorder. “Angel, don’t you ever knock?” He turned on Ramon. “And you. You aren’t welcome here.”

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“Nice to see you, too, big brother. Man, that song’s incredible. Did you just write that?” “None of your business. Now, get lost.” Rico stood to his full height. He painted his best menacing expression on his face and stalked toward Ramon. Ramon didn’t flinch when Rico stopped inches from him. “I came to talk business.” “Fine, talk and make it fast. You have....” Rico consulted his watch. “Five minutes. Starting now.” “I’m almost done with the CD, but I need one more song.” Ramon indicated the cassette recorder. “I think I just found it.” Rico stiffened. “I think you’d better keep looking.” “Why? Are you going to record it?” Ramon’s question drilled down through the animosity and struck a nerve. What was he going to do with Discovery? Record it himself? Let someone else record it? Shop it around? He didn’t know. He’d just written a blockbuster song with no idea who would sing it. **** Over the next few months, Rico dived into his new business venture with all the determination of an obsessed man. He hustled new recording artists by using his contacts and innate charm to sign promising young talent and established talent that needed a fresh approach. His new company received quite a bit of press, especially on the Latin and European markets. He seemed to be regaining the respect of his peers. Very few doors were closed to him. He attended all the best parties to expand and reestablish his connections. Those parties required a female escort. That wasn’t a problem. There were plenty of women available to him. No matter how beautiful and no matter how much he needed a little sex, he went home alone at the end of every night. His self-imposed celibacy needed to stop, but he wasn’t ready to sleep with another woman. Not yet. As soon as he found a woman who turned him on as much as Mariah, he’d invite her home with him. He just needed more time. Replacing such an exceptional woman wouldn’t be easy. If he could ever replaced her.

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He worked sixteen-plus hours a day, seven-days-a-week. Angel took over the main management of the import business, but Rico kept a hand in it, and Ed out of it as much as possible. He dialed Mariah's phone number on several occasions but always hung up before it rang. He couldn't do it. He couldn't contact her. It wouldn't be fair to her. Mariah was the type of woman who gave herself heart and soul to a man forever. She deserved a man who could return that love. He was holding the phone, contemplating another phone call when Angel burst into his house. “Rico, why didn’t you join us tonight for Ramon’s birthday dinner?” “Us” meant his father and his latest chickie baby, his obnoxious brother and his woman d’ jour, and Angel. No thanks. He didn’t think he could fake being pleasant for two hours, especially to Ramon. “I forgot about it.” “Liar.” She moved over to his CD player, took a CD out of her purse and inserted it. Rico watched her with detached interest. “What’s that?” “Ramon's next hit. It’s gonna rock the charts.” “Really?” His ears perked up. “Don’t say a word until you listen to the whole thing. Insignia plans to release it next month.” “Next month? And I haven’t heard it yet?” Somehow, they'd snuck that one by him. Heads were going to roll for that oversight. Angel held a finger up to her lips. “Be quiet, or I won’t play it for you.” Rico sighed and pursed his lips. The song started playing. It sounded eerily familiar. Then the singing started. “Wait, that’s....” “Shhhh. Just listen.” He did listen, at first in anger then in awe. Ramon crooned the first verse backed up by a haunting melody and strong, powerful chorus. His brother owned that song. He put his distinctive stamp on it and made it his. No one else could have sung that song with such feeling and emotion. As the song ended in much the way it started, goosebumps rose on Rico's arms, and a lump formed in his throat. He wiped a long tear from his eye. Speechless, he stared at Angel. She raised her eyebrows and smiled. “Well?”

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He slammed back to reality like a skydiver without a parachute. “That little bastard stole my song.” “No, he didn’t. Your name’s on the credits as songwriter. Don’t worry about it.” “I never gave that song to him.” “Of course you didn’t. We took it. Remember that tape you made?” “I can’t believe you did that.” “Were you going to sing it?” “No, I... No.” “You have to admit he sings it beautifully.” Rico wasn’t admitting to anything. “You tricked me.” Angel laughed. “So sue yourself. You own the recording company.” **** For the first two weeks after he left, Mariah broke into tears over the smallest things, like breaking a fingernail or split ends. She tried to keep busy by immersing herself in work. Yet, every time the phone rang or someone knocked on the door, she leapt to her feet, hoping it was him. It wasn't him. He never called. He wouldn’t call. In all fairness, she hadn’t left the door open for him to contact her. She’d slammed it shut. She’d been another summer romance to him. That was that all. She needed to forget about him and get on with her life. Yet, deep down inside, she knew it had been more than that. She didn't imagine the connection between them. Perhaps, the intensity of it had been too much for him. Heaven knows, it had been too much for her on several occasions. But he’d lied to her from day one, betrayed that connection they had in the worst way. Could she ever trust a man like that? If the gossip surrounding him was true, his track record wasn’t good. Now, months later, she sat in Eva’s living room, drinking tea, and looking for answers. What Eva lacked in the fortune-telling department, she more than made up for with unsolicited advice. Right now, Mariah even welcomed that. “Six months, Eva. Six long months. Shouldn’t I be getting over him by now?”

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“Not if it isn’t over yet.” “He's dating models and movie stars, celebrities. Even if I wanted to, I can’t compete with women like that.” Compete? In order to compete, you had to be in the game. She wasn’t even in the same ballpark. “They have nothing over on you.” “Oh, yeah, right. Like a couple more inches in the right places.” “You're not exactly flat, honey. And yours are real.” “Well, since he’s asking them out and not me, I’d say they have quite a bit over on me.” “Your paths will cross again.” “He lied to me. He told me what I wanted to hear so he could get what he wanted.” “Sometimes deception is necessary for the greater good. His motives were sincere. If you’d known from the beginning who he was, would you have given him a chance?” “Of course not. With his reputation?” “How do you know it’s deserved? Did you ever give him the opportunity to explain his side? Rico’s a good man, Mariah. Trust your instincts on that.” “My instincts sucked with Warren.” “No, they didn’t. You refused to listen to them. Rico’s biggest faults and greatest strengths are being loyal and honorable. Our society doesn’t often reward those traits.” Mariah sighed. Sometimes Eva annoyed the snot out of her. The cold, bitter truth was that Rico hadn’t let any grass grow under his feet. She needed to do the same. Get out more, start dating, try out what he taught her on some other men. Sounded good, right? Except for one small problem. She didn’t want any other man. She wanted Rico. How stupid was that? The man lied to her and used her for his plaything. He deserved his reputation in every way, shape, and form. She needed to grow up and get on with it, just like she’d been forced to do too many times before in her life. Well, at least she hadn’t heard from Warren in months. Obviously, his threats had been idle ones with no substance behind them. He must have moved on to another victim. ****

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When Jamal suggested Mariah escort one of his friends to a Seattle charity event, Mariah’s first inclination was to say no. That very same day, she saw a picture of Rico with a super model at a Hollywood party. She quickly reversed her decision. It’d be fun to go out with a good-looking jock. Wouldn’t it? Now that she stood in the jock’s hotel room, she questioned her sanity. Matt Larsen didn’t seem to notice her nervousness, but then he hadn’t noticed much all night when it came to her. He’d been too busy posturing for the cameras as he hauled her around like his personal Barbie doll. Despite his arrogance, she’d agreed to go to his room. The time to get over Rico had long since passed. Matt started removing his clothes, his expectations clear. Mariah swallowed hard and reached back to unzip her little halter dress. Her sweaty hands shook and she couldn’t seem to grasp the zipper. Taking two long strides, Matt invaded her personal space. Of course, by the time the night was over, he’d be invading more than that. Reaching around behind her, he ran his fingers down her spine. She shivered from fear, but he probably assumed it was excitement. “Let me help you with that,” he whispered in a gravelly voice. Mariah iced up as his large hands pulled the zipper downward. Her tight dress loosened immediately. Matt leaned forward and nibbled her neck. Squeezing her butt, he pulled her against him. His erection pressed against her stomach. She stiffened. All her old panic, fears, and doubts flooded her mind like a broken water main flooding the street. Mariah fought the urge to wrench away from his touch. She held her breath, hoping he mistook her frozen state for anticipation instead of dread. He nipped at her neck. Instead of moaning with desire, she yelped with discomfort. “Hey, help me out a little here. You act like you’re hating every minute of this.” Matt’s annoyance came through loud and clear. “I’m...I’m just a little nervous.” Matt eyes narrowed as he looked at her. “About what? There’s no way you’re a virgin. You’re too old.” Matt slid the dress down lower. Mariah pulled it up and moved away from him. “I’m not a virgin. I’m just not ready for this.”

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“What? Not ready. What the hell are you talking about? You’ve been flirting with me all night, teasing me. What kinda game are you playing, lady?” “None, I promise. I’m sorry. I can’t... I just can’t.” Mariah grabbed her coat and threw it on, not taking the time to zip her dress. Matt glowered at her in disgust. Sulking, his ego injured, he let her go. Standing on the curb in the pouring rain, Mariah waited for a taxi. By the time one drove by, she looked like a drowned rat in evening clothes. Flopping into the back seat, she gave the driver instructions to her hotel. She didn’t know who she was maddest at: Matt, Rico, or herself. Matt had lived up to her expectations as a jerk, yet she still went to his room. So whose fault was that? Hers. Rico had lied to her, left her with a broken heart, and inadvertently caused a situation where she didn’t want any other man. But whose fault was that? Hers, again. So that brought her to the person she was maddest at: herself. Maybe she’d just swear off men altogether and join a convent, except she wasn’t Catholic. She cursed herself for being so gullible and stupid. It wasn’t Rico’s fault she’d fallen in love with the first man who ever made her feel like an exciting, desirable woman. She felt a cold, dull ache surrounded by emptiness. Nothing filled the void he left behind. A week later the gossip rags contained pictures of Matt Barnes escorted by a Seattle interior designer.

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Chapter 14 The Ex Mariah turned Sueño loose in his pasture. Walking back to the barn, she heard steps behind her. For a brief moment, she fantasized about it being Rico. Maybe he’d decided he couldn’t live without her. He’d returned to beg her forgiveness and sweep her off her feet. As she turned to greet her guest, her welcoming smile froze on her face. “Warren,” she said in a flat wary tone. Warren stood a few feet away wearing his usual predatory smile and confident manner. His carefully toned body filled out his silk shirt and slacks perfectly. His blond hair and handsome face provided a stark contrast to the coldness in his ice gray eyes. Practiced mannerisms and impeccable manners hid the ruthless businessman that lurked beneath the surface. “My dear, you don’t sound too happy to see me.” “I look forward to your visits, Warren.” Mariah’s voice dripped with sarcasm and an underlying sadness. “Okay, let’s drop the niceties.” His eyes grew colder, if that was possible. “I want this farm.” Mariah sighed wearily. “We’ve been over this. Aunt Rose left the farm to me. It’s mine to do with as I please. I’m not selling.” “You’re a fool, Mariah. This property is worth millions. We could develop it.” “And break it up into small little lots? Clear cut it? Fill the cove with a marina? Destroy everything? My parents and aunt wanted it preserved. They wanted it to stay in my family.” She tried one last time to reason with him. “I’ll never sell it to the likes of you to be developed.” He laughed bitterly. “So the spoiled, perfect daughter and niece saves the farm from the evil, greedy attorney?” “I guess so, if you want to put it that way.”

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“Mariah, you’re a dumb, trusting bitch.” Mariah took a deep breath and gathered up her courage. “Maybe it’s time for you to leave.” “You’re right. I am wasting my time with you.” He handed her the large envelope he’d held in his hand, a calculating gleam in his eye. “Go ahead, open it.” With trembling fingers, Mariah opened the envelope. She stared at the legal papers, flipping through them. A cold knife sliced through her gut. “I don’t understand. What is this?” “Your aunt didn’t have health insurance. Where do you think she got the money for her cancer treatments and operations especially considering she was already in a financial bind?” “You loaned it to her?” Warren nodded. “She signed over half of the farm to me for a pittance, and I paid off her debts. The rest of the money she needed was in the form of a loan. Hundreds of thousands of dollars with the other half of this farm as collateral and everything on it.” “No. No. She couldn't have done that.” “We were a loving couple at that time, remember? And your aunt was a hopeless romantic.” “She never thought you’d collect.” She swallowed the bile that rose in her throat. A cold fear rippled through her. She'd have felt warmer swimming in the arctic. “No, she didn’t. She thought we’d be married and the land would be saved for all posterity.” Mariah stared at the loan agreement. The amount of money her aunt borrowed from Warren staggered her. “I don’t have that kind of money.” “I’m sure you don’t.” Warren took a menacing step closer. “Even if I did, you'd still own half.” “Actually 51 percent.” Mariah shook her head in disbelief. “This place is worth so much more.” “The balloon payment on this loan is due today.” “Today? I can’t get this kind of money today.” She didn’t know how she’d get it a year from today. “Why is this the first I heard about this?” “I've been sending certified notices for months to your aunt's PO Box.”

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“They were addressed to her. I couldn't sign for them.” Plus, she'd done the Scarlett thing again. She'd assumed they were from bill collectors and didn't deal with them. “Poor, poor, Mariah. I’m so sorry. I guess it got overlooked by your aunt’s attorney, but I’m afraid ignorance isn’t an excuse.” “Your partner handled my aunt's estate.” “Oh, Mike? Too bad he's out of the country now. You have no recourse.” “What about the summer camp on this property for emotionallydisturbed kids that my great-grandparents started?” “Their lease expires in a year. It won’t be renewed by me.” “You can’t do that. It’s been here for years.” “Do you think I give a shit? By the way, it’ll take several weeks to foreclose. That should give you enough time to pack and get your little ass off my property.” He paused long enough to savor her stunned expression. Satisfied he’d made his point, he left her without another word. Mariah stared after him. Numbness soaked into her limbs and her stomach churned. A metallic taste filled her mouth. Her head spun. By sheer force of will, she fought the nausea. Shaking off her shock, she knew what she had to do. She’d borrow enough money to pay off the loan to Warren. She'd have no choice but to let him split the property, but she'd keep the portion with the camp. **** Too worried to sleep, Mariah lay in bed and stared at the ceiling. She couldn’t lose this property to Warren of all people. Her aunt and her parents had trusted her to keep the farm intact and to allow the camp to continue. She’d betray that trust if Warren raped the land and developed it. Half of it was a lost cause. She had to rescue the other half. As much as she hated to admit it, Warren scared her. She didn’t know how far he’d go to get what he wanted and extract a little revenge. In the meantime, she did the best she could. She took on several new clients in the islands. They kept her busy from dawn till dusk. Her income didn’t make a dent in the overdue loan, but she looked more financially

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stable to the bank. The loan officer at the Friday Harbor bank wasn't optimistic about her chances. Even Eva wasn’t making predictions about her success. Somehow, she’d beat Warren at his own game. Even better, she’d do it without anyone’s help. Worrying about the farm during her waking hours was bad enough, but sleep didn’t bring any peace either. When she finally drifted into a restless sleep, Rico was waiting for her. His breath feathered her neck. The smell of his aftershave hung in the air. His heat clung to her body. She tasted the salt on his skin. The stubble on his handsome face scratched her cheeks. Hard flat muscles flexed above her as he filled her core with his essence. She broke out into a fine sweat. A welcome soreness tingled deep inside her. In the darkness, she reached for him. She needed his comforting smile and gentle touch. His side of the bed remained empty and cold. It had been for months. Her dream seemed so real that in her half-awake state she thought he lay next to her. She rolled over and buried her face in the pillow. Just when she thought she was finally getting over him and starting to heal, something like this happened to remind her that she missed him as much as the day he’d left. **** The magazine was propped open and placed in a conspicuous location. Rico picked it up, wondering what his meddling sister had left for him to find. He frowned as one of the pictures caught his eye. He scanned the accompanying caption: Matt Larson, football’s most notorious playboy and a dangerous quarterback, was caught at a Seattle nightclub before the Seattle/San Francisco game. His date for the evening is a local interior designer. Rico’s stomach curled in a tight knot. Six months—he hadn’t seen or talked to her in six months. He should’ve forgotten about her long ago. Instead, he actually thought about her more and more. This picture opened old wounds, self-inflicted old wounds. He sighed and sunk into the closest chair, taking the magazine with him. Maybe he couldn’t love her, but he needed her.

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He’d grown weary of living by himself day after day. The loneliness seeped into his soul and his body. He used to blame his discontent on not liking his work in the import business, but he loved running his recording company. It’d started to turn around. In just six months, profits increased and expenses decreased. His rescue of the struggling company won praise from many industry insiders. He should be dancing in the streets. Yet, he wasn’t. He could almost afford Mariah now, at least in the manner that she wanted to be accustomed to financially. That emotional thing was another story. That month with Mariah had been the best month of his life in the last four years. He couldn't do better than her, except for Carmen. Carmen. Always Carmen. But Carmen had moved on. He needed to do the same. What he had with Mariah came close. Close enough to make a life with her? Frowning, he laid the magazine on the coffee table. A lot had changed in his life, yet none of it had fixed what was really broken. Instead of dreading his job, he loved it, a definite improvement. He’d taken complete control of his professional life for the first time ever. He was writing songs. Yet, something was still wrong. He was irritable and depressed. His temper ignited at the slightest provocation like a match to gasoline. His friends and family tiptoed around him never knowing what would trigger his explosiveness. Even worse, that emptiness still lurked inside him like a stalker, never seen but always felt. The doorbell interrupted his attempt at self-exploration. Carmen swept into the room. He inhaled her familiar scent and waited for the little thrill he always felt in her presence. It didn't happen. “I’m sorry I’m a little early. Max is anxious to get to the party.” “It’s fine, Car. It’ll be a welcome change of pace for me.” “Rico, are you sure this is okay? Angel will be by in an hour or so to pick her up.” “It’s not a problem. I don’t mind at all. I love babies.” He actually meant that. He really didn’t mind. In fact, he’d been looking forward to it. Smiling, Carmen placed his goddaughter in his arms. Rico stared at the small little bundle in absolute awe. His throat constricted with an unnamed emotion. Unable to speak, he smiled instead. As he gazed at the baby,

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something changed inside him. Susannah drooled, blowing little bubbles as she breathed and laughed her musical laugh. “God, she’s beautiful, Car.” “Isn’t she?” Carmen peeked over his shoulder, wiping tears from her eyes. “I never knew being a mother would feel so good.” Rico tenderly stroked the baby’s cheek, reveling in her softness, breathing in her baby scent. He held her and rocked her carefully. She cooed at him. He met Carmen’s eyes. “I’m happy for you, Car. Truly, I am.” For once, he meant it. “You need a baby, Rico. A houseful. You’d be a such a good papa.” “I will be. Someday.” “What are you waiting for?” “I guess the right woman would be a start.” Carmen touched his cheek. “Oh, Rico. Don’t give up the best thing that ever happened to you. Please.” “I don’t follow you.” “Mariah. She’s perfect for you, and you’re perfect for her.” “How do you know that? Have you been attending Eva’s psychic classes?” Carmen raised her eyebrows. “Eva has psychic classes?” “Hell if I know, but it wouldn’t surprise me.” They both shared a laugh, a painful reminder of good times long gone, never to be recovered. “Have you talked to her?” “Who? Eva?” “No, Mariah. Have you talked to Mariah?” “No, not at all. Not since I left. It’s best this way. I can’t be the man she needs.” Carmen breathed deeply and tightened her jaw. She gnawed on her lower lip, as if trying to keep the words inside. She failed. “I shouldn’t be telling you this, but she’s in a little financial trouble. Eva told me, but no one is to know.” “What kind of trouble?” Rico’s brow furrowed as he considered Carmen’s words. “I guess her aunt took out a loan to pay for her medical bills with the farm as collateral. Mariah didn’t know about it until the day the loan came due. It’s a lot of money, in the form of a balloon payment due about a month

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ago. Mariah’s ex loaned her aunt the money after he got her to sign over half of the farm to him. He’s foreclosing on the rest.” “What’s Mariah doing about it?” “She’s trying to get a loan to pay him off. If he takes that property, he’s going to develop it and remove the camp that’s been there for years. She’s pretty upset about it. Maybe you should call her just to say hi and tell her you’re thinking about her? Cheer her up a little. You do think about her, don’t you?” “Carmen, it’s over between us. I can’t call her. It wouldn’t be fair to her.” Carmen nodded her understanding and smiled sadly. She bent down and kissed her baby. “You have all our numbers?” “Sí, all of them.” His melancholy expression must have betrayed him. Carmen hesitated then met his intense gaze. “I love Max. You know that. I could’ve never loved you like I love him. You deserve more. I’m sorry.” She frowned and squeezed his arm. “Don’t look at me like that. We weren’t good together. We would have destroyed each other.” Rico didn’t see it that way, but she didn’t need to know that. “Carmen, I’m fine. Doing great. Don’t waste your time worrying about me.” “Rico, I didn’t love you. I wanted out. We’d been together since we were kids. I grew one way, and you grew another. Then that poor girl was found in your room and all hell broke lose. I panicked, I couldn’t deal with the media circus. I’m so sorry. I know I hurt you. My timing was lousy, but to stay would have prolonged the inevitable.” Guilt was written all over her face. “Carmen, there’s one thing I have to know. Were you seeing Max while we were together?” “No. No, I swear we wouldn’t have done that to you, Rico. Yes, we were attracted to each other, but we never acted on it until after I left you for good.” She smiled a sad, little smile. Without another word, she walked out the door, closing it quietly behind her. Her words should have pierced him like a lance. Instead, he felt nothing. Rico carried the baby to a rocking chair. She played with a button on his shirt, fascinated by it. He held her close to him. His heart ached for a little one like this to protect, to nurture, to love. He rocked her, humming softly to

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her. His humming turned into a gentle ballad, Susannah’s ballad. The words came easily to him. They tumbled from his mouth as if they’d been waiting for just the right moment. Peace and contentment filled him. Perhaps he’d been fighting the very thing his life needed—a family of his own. As he considered Carmen’s words, a plan took shape in his mind. A crazy plan, an outrageous plan, yet the more he toyed with it, the more plausible it seemed. “Rico, you look good with that baby in your arms.” Rico jumped then glared at Angel. “Do you know how to use a doorbell?” Thank God, the baby was a heavy sleeper. Angel crossed in front of him to admire the baby. “You’d make a good wife, dear brother, you even cook.” “Thanks, thanks a lot. There’s one problem. I don’t want a husband.” “Oh, does that mean you want a wife?” Oops. He’d walked right into that one. Rico refused to answer that question under grounds that he might incriminate himself. Angel crossed the room and picked up the magazine. “This is her, isn’t it?” “Did you leave that here?” “Nope, you can’t pin that one on me.” She studied the picture. “She’s gorgeous, Rico. Just your type. Why don’t you do something about it? You’ve been as crotchety as a cat in a bathtub since you came back. It has to be her.” She met his eyes in a silent challenge. “Yeah, it’s called no sex in six months.” “I don’t buy it. If it was that simple, half of the women in California would be willing to accommodate you.” She put her face close to his face, her dark eyes boring into his eyes. Rico shifted the baby in his arms and gave the child his full attention, ignoring his sister. Unfortunately, that didn’t deter her in the least. “You’re a pain in the butt. No wonder you can’t keep a man for more than one night.” She flopped down next to him. “You hide behind sex. You know that?” Oh, God, there she went. She should have majored in psychology and used her nosiness for people who wanted help instead of torturing him. “Angel, not tonight.” “Rico, it’s about more than sex with you. It always has been. You’re not nearly the love ‘em and leave ‘em type you pretend to be. I know you don’t want to be like Dad, but you’ve taken it to the opposite extreme. Just

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because you were with Carmen for years doesn’t mean that you can’t fall in love again.” She shook her head and sighed. “You know what you need?” “No, I don’t want to know, but I bet you’re going to tell me anyway.” “Don’t be a stubborn ass.” Rico moaned and rolled his head back against the couch. Angel pointed at the magazine. “Go get her. I’ve never met her, but I have a good feeling about her. She looks like a good person.” “How can you tell by that picture?” “I have good instincts. Come on, brother dear. What are you afraid of?” “Mariah needs more than I’m willing to give.” “Why aren’t you willing to give what she needs?” “It’s all so complicated.” “No, it’s not. Only because you choose to make it that way. That gives you a convenient excuse.” Angel leaned forward, taking the baby from him. She stood up. “I love you, Rico. I want to see you happy. You’re not the person you think you are. You’re actually a better person. You just want someone to love and someone to love you. Until you quit fighting that, you’ll never be happy. Never.” After she left, Rico crawled into bed and closed his eyes. Sleep claimed him and transformed him elsewhere. He traveled to a dark place, a place not familiar to him. He smiled at the blond vision before him. Carmen. Puzzled, his smile faded, and he frowned ever so slightly. She was the one and yet she wasn’t. Confusion flooded his brain. She floated toward him covered in a fine mist. A white light bathed her naked body. He moved toward her, holding out his hands. She took them. They merged together as one to fill a longing, a need, an emptiness within them. Suddenly, the mist cleared. The body joined with his wasn’t Carmen’s. In her place was a certain green-eyed, sassy beauty with a dazzling smile, a wicked sense of humor, and an innocent sensuality. She offered everything to him for the sheer joy of making him happy. She expected nothing in return. What she lacked in experience, she made up for in enthusiasm and passion. He returned her gift with eagerness, offering all he had to offer. They climbed higher and higher together. When he reached his climax, he cried out her name and pledged his heart to her.

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Sated and relaxed, Rico rolled onto his back to pull her into his arms, but his arms were empty. The cold bed contained only him. God, he yearned for her—body and soul. “Te quiero, Mariah. I need you,” he whispered into the night.

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Chapter 15 The Scheme “My God, Rico. Are you hung over?” Rolling over in bed, Rico rubbed his eyes and squinted at his sister. Angel walked to the window and opened the blinds. He threw the blanket over his head as the sun intruded into his dark sanctuary. Tasha, his little mutt, opened one eye and glared at Angel, annoyed at having her beauty sleep interrupted. With a little growl, she burrowed under the pillow. Bo, his black lab, never stopped snoring from his location at the foot of the bed. Normally, Rico didn’t allow his dogs in his room, but last night he didn’t have the heart to kick them out. Rico frowned. Had Angel come back for round two? Hadn’t last night been enough? “How’d you get in here?” He tried to snarl, but it came out as a feeble grunt. “I have a key. Remember, brother dear?” Angel bounced on the edge of his bed and pulled the blanket off his head.” “I musta been drunk when I gave you keys to my house.” “Rico, it’s after eleven. What are you doing in bed?” “I’m tired. Okay? I didn’t sleep last night.” Yeah, he’d been awake until 5:00 A.M. plotting and planning. “Well, don’t get your boxers in a bunch. Everyone started worrying about you when you didn’t show up at the office this morning. We tried calling, but you aren’t answering your phone.” “I unplugged all the phones.” He watched as Angel pulled a breakfast tray out of thin air and shoved it under his nose. “You didn’t have to do that.” “Yes, I did. I’m worried about you.”

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“Don’t you have something better to do? Maybe rob a bank or harass some poor guy who runs a red light? Hell, I don’t know. Just leave me alone.” Even as he said it, his nose picked up the heavenly scent of bacon. With a flourish, Angel sat the tray on his lap. Not waiting for an invitation, she jumped on the bed, grabbed a plate from the tray and helped herself. “Rico, I think you’re lovesick,” Angel noted as she watched her brother wolf down the bacon and eggs. “That’s ridiculous. We were good friends, and we had good sex. That was it.” Angel looked knowingly at Rico. “We were, huh? So you know exactly who I’m talking about?” “Stop that. I know what you’re thinking. It’s not true. I’m not down, not at all. For the first time in years, I love what I’m doing, and I’m good at it. Everything is going my way.” Angel nodded. “I know you love running the recording company, Rico. Everyone knows it, but you’re pushing too hard. Your people know their jobs. You need to trust them.” “I do trust them. I just....” “Expect them to work 24-7 like you do?” “No, I don’t expect that.” “Oh, excuse me, that’s only 16-7, right? Rico, people are grumbling. They appreciate what you’ve done with the company, but they don’t like your unreasonable expectations.” “I don’t expect any more of them than I expect of myself.” “What makes you think your expectations for yourself are reasonable?” Rico couldn’t think of an answer for that. He tossed a piece of bacon to Bo, who sat patiently at the side of the bed. With that sixth sense dogs have that tell them when one of their kind is getting a treat, Tasha emerged from her hiding spot. Rico gave her a smaller piece. “We all know what improvements you’ve made. You’ve signed several hot new singers and some brilliant unknowns. You’ve made the music industry stand up and pay attention to Insignia. It’s no longer the butt of everyone’s jokes.” “So what is your point?” “You’ve won back their respect, Rico. No one talks about that night four years ago anymore.”

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Rico shrugged. He guessed that was good. Really good. “Did you ever think that you need to balance your life with a little personal joy? Loving what you do hasn’t really filled the void, has it? You thought it would, but it hasn’t. That’s why you’re so edgy and restless.” Angel paused to point at the picture of Mariah he’d left sitting on the nightstand. “You need a woman. You need to get a life, so the rest of us can have one, too.” “Angel, I’m one step ahead of you. For once, you’re right.” “I’m right?” Angel choked on her words. “Okay, whoever you are, what did you do with my brother?” Rico laughed. “I am going to get a life. Work isn’t enough. I need more.” He took a deep breath, savoring his next words. “I’ve made a decision, a life-altering decision.” He had her attention now. Her ears pricked up and she practically salivated. In fact, was that drool running down her chin? He waited an appropriate amount of time to build a little drama then he socked it to her. “I want a family. I want kids.” Angel stared at him with an open mouth. He’d finally managed to say something to render her speechless. He mentally patted himself on the back. Chalk one up for the males of the world. “Babysitting Susie got me thinking. I’m good with kids, love kids. Now is the best time for me to have them. I’m still young enough to enjoy them, do things with them. It’s perfect.” “Don’t you need a woman for that? Unless you know something I don’t.” “I already have a woman in mind.” “Oh, and she’ll just go along with this crazy idea of yours?” His sister cast a quick glance at Mariah’s picture. “Yeah, she will. I think. Besides, I have something she needs desperately, and she has something I need.” “She has a womb, but what do you have for her?” Angel raised her eyebrows. “You mean besides being irresistible, charming, and sexy? Oh, yeah, and don’t forget hot in bed.” “What else, Rico?” Angel rolled her eyes, pretending to gag. “Money. I can scrape together enough to save the one thing she holds dear above all else.”

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Rico rubbed his eyes with his fists. He was so tired he saw double. Once he’d made up his mind, Rico set the wheels in motion. Not that he knew for certain exactly where those wheels might carry him. For two weeks, Rico had plotted his moves. He hired a private investigator to find out the details of Mariah’s debt and to fill him in on the last six months of her life. Other than that one date with Matt the football player, she didn’t appear to be dating. Which suited him just fine. Her ability to get a loan was shaky because of the huge amount, her self-employed status, and the difficulty of proving her income. He was crazy with loneliness and crazy with wanting a family. There were no ulterior motives to his little plan. He missed Mariah because they were good friends. He enjoyed her company and her body. Most relationships didn’t have that much going for them. Love was way too overrated anyway. From his way of thinking, it was better to enter into a business-type agreement without emotions clouding the issues. The tough part would be convincing Mariah of the same thing. Logically, it made perfect sense to him. The door to his corner office opened, and he glanced up from the computer screen filled with hundreds of unread Emails. Oh, no, not two Eduardo’s. That’s too much for any man to deal with. He blinked, bringing his bleary eyes into focus. The two Eduardos merged into one. Thank God. We watched his father with suspicion, glancing at his watch to make sure he wasn’t hallucinating. Ed never worked past 5:00. “Ed, it’s after 9:00 P.M. What’s the deal? Why aren’t you at the club with your latest babe?” “You know, Rico, I wish you wouldn’t call me that.” Ed poured himself a double scotch on the rocks from the small bar then paced the floor. “Call you what?” “Ed. Whatever happened to Dad or Papa?” “I didn’t know you cared.” “That’s a low blow, son, and completely uncalled for. Are you ever going to forgive me for all my transgressions? After all, I’m only human. I make mistakes.” “Yeah, right, more than your share,” Rico muttered under his breath.

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Ed ignored Rico’s unveiled insult. “We need to talk. I should have had this talk with you years ago.” Rico threw back his head and laughed. “If you’re going to talk to me about sex, I think we can skip that conversation.” Ed’s pacing made him nervous. “Look, sit down, will you?” Ed sat down. “Angel talked to me.” Rico rolled his eyes. Angel and Ed were tag-teaming him. Great, just great. Time for a relationship lecture from the man with the revolving-door marriages. “I don’t like this idea of yours. Marry for love, not for kids. And make sure she marries you for love, not your money.” “Now, coming from you, that’s advice I’ll take to heart.” “Don’t speak to me in that tone of voice. I am your father.” Rico bit his tongue to keep the next smart remark lodged inside his tired brain. “I married every one of those women for love, Rico.” “And you divorced every one of them for...what? Cause you fell out of love and into love with the next bimbo? That’s not love, Ed. That’s lust. Pure and simple. I’ve seen love. I’ve seen what it does to people. It’s bullshit. Overrated.” Eduardo’s eyes narrowed. “Rico, why are you getting so defensive. Did I hit a sore spot?” “If that’s all you came here to say then I’ve got work to do.” “No, I’m not done.” Ed hesitated. “I’m the one who did this to you. I know I don’t make good choices when it comes to women. You know, your mother was the best thing that ever happened to me. Obviously, I screwed that up. I sincerely hoped you hadn’t taken after me in the relationship department.” “I haven’t.” “No, you’ve done the opposite to avoid the same fate as your father. The results are the same. Neither of us seems to be able to maintain a real relationship.” Rico bristled. He didn’t like being compared to his father, even by his father. With jerky movements, he hauled himself out of his chair and poured himself a stiff drink.

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“You and Ramon. What have I done?” Ed heaved a big, theatrical sigh. “You avoid meaningful relationships, and Ramon goes after anything that’s blond and wears a skirt.” “Yeah? Well, sounds like Ramon’s his father’s son.” “I suppose so. I had more of a hand in raising him than I did you. That’s for sure. Maybe you were the lucky one.” “Maybe I was.” “Rico, this scheme of yours is ludicrous. I don’t know this woman, Maria?” “Mariah.” “Yeah, okay, Mariah, but I can’t believe you would want a woman who’d actually have your children for money.” “Why not? You have.” “That’s not true. At least, I didn’t go into it with such cold-blooded logic. I really thought I loved them, and they loved me.” “Well, Mariah’s different. She does love me. She’ll be devoted to me because that’s the kind of woman she is. Honorable.” “Oh, so she loves you, but you don’t love her? You’re not making sense, son. Listen to yourself.” Rico didn’t like it when his father actually made a valid point. He hooked a leg over the edge of his desk and regarded Ed with disdain. “She’ll do it. I can persuade her.” “You’re awfully sure of yourself. Do you plan on being faithful to her? Sounds like you assume she’ll be faithful to you.” “She wouldn’t want anyone else but me.” “And you? Would you want anyone else?” Rico squirmed. It sucked when his father actually decided to be insightful. No, he didn’t want anyone else, but that was none of Ed’s business. “If she expects that of me, I wouldn’t hurt her.” Ed shook his head, and Rico got the distinct impression that he’d disappointed his father once again. “Angel tells me that you plan to escort her to the party next week?” Mariah had to be with him when Ramon debuted Discovery at Delgado’s charity gala, the biggest celebrity event of the year. He needed her there more than he’d admit to anyone, especially his father. “Why her? Why not some other woman?”

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“I don’t want any other woman. I want her.” A calculating expression crossed Ed’s face. Rico braced himself. He’d just given the man ammunition for his next argument. Like father, like daughter. “Really? There’s more to this, isn’t there? Why don’t you just tell the woman you love her and can’t live without her?” “You’re a romantic,” Rico scoffed. “Maybe.” Ed rose to his feet, and Rico breathed a sigh of relief. His father crossed the room, pausing with his hand on the doorknob. “I can’t wait to meet the woman that has my son so tied up in knots that he’d come up with such a ruse just to see her again. She must be some woman.” Ed slid through the door and closed it behind him. “She is,” Rico whispered to the silent walls of his office. **** Mariah wrote a check for the last bill from the now-due stack and subtracted the amount from her checkbook. She had $23.43 left in checking. Even worse, her savings account existed only in her recent memories. Property taxes were due next month. The taxes on this place were more than she made in a year. She still needed to buy hay and grain for the horses. Sueño would be reduced to standing on a Friday Harbor street corner, grain bucket in his mouth, sporting a sign, “will work for hay”. In spite of her situation, she laughed out loud. Mariah stepped outside into the frosty night air. Winter in the San Juans could be beautiful, but she was having a hard time seeing that beauty tonight. Instead, her stomach churned like a washing machine on the heavyduty wash cycle. She was running out of time. She'd gone to every bank in the area, checked out the Internet, nothing. No one would finance that amount of money. Even if she could find a financial institution willing to take a chance, she still had to pay the taxes and other expenses on this place. Then there were the loan payments. She was close to admitting defeat. The phone interrupted her musing. She walked back inside to answer it, grateful for the interruption.

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“Mariah? This is Carmen Delgado. How are you?” “Fine. Wonderful.” Wonderfully miserable. “And how are you, Carmen?” “Oh, I’m great. I had my baby, a little girl. We named her Susannah.” Carmen’s cheery voice grated on Mariah’s nerves. “Oh, congratulations.” If she got any more excited, she’d have to breathe into a paper bag. “Thanks. That’s part of the reason I’m calling. You did such a good job on our vacation home, we’d like to hire you for a remodel job on our home in Southern Cal. We need the nursery re-designed, maybe some other rooms, too.” It seemed a little odd that they hadn't had the nursery done before the baby was born. No matter, she needed the money. She needed to bag the Scarlett act and think about life after Rose Hill. She didn’t relish the idea of being so close to Rico, but a job was job, and she needed this one. Maybe Rico didn’t socialize with the Delgado’s. After all, Carmen had been his lover since they’d been teenagers. Everyone knew that. Their stormy relationship had entertained fans and increased gossip rag sales for years. “Mariah? Are you still there?” “Yes.” “I need someone who can start next Saturday. I hate asking you to work on a weekend, but that’s the only day both Max and I are available to meet with you. Does that work?” “Uh, sure. That’d be great.” Now she needed to find the money for airfare and a hotel room and.... “We’ll take care of your expenses. I’ll email you later with the details.” Eva would be proud of Carmen. Not a bad job of mind-reading. “I’m looking forward to it.” So would her bank account. And so would Sueño, the almost-beggar horse. “Is $2500 enough for an advance?” Enough? It was more than enough. “I’m sure that’ll be fine.” Mariah squelched the urge to give a cheer for the old bank account. “Uh, Mariah?” Carmen hesitated. “Yes? “Have you heard from Rico?”

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That washing machine in her stomach started the spin cycle. She sank into the nearest chair. “I...no. I don’t expect to. Why do you ask?” “Would you like to hear from him?” “No, of course not. I have no interest in seeing him. You're not thinking of anything like that, are you?” “Oh, no, I’m not thinking of it at all. He seems out of sorts since he came back. I thought that maybe he missed you.” “Carmen, I rather not talk about him.” “Sorry.” She didn't sound sorry. “I’ll email the flight details and stuff to you. We’re looking forward to getting started. Bye.” With that last word, Carmen hung up. What a strange conversation. Mariah smelled a rat, a tall lean Latin one. Even if they were setting her up, they’d baited the trap with a job offer she couldn’t refuse. Her situation was just too desperate. Regardless, she was certain of one thing, no way would Señor Rat be getting a piece of her cheesecake.

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Chapter 16 The Reunion Disembarking from the plane, Mariah entered the terminal. Flying first class had been worth every penny. She felt energized and ready to go to work. Doing Max and Carmen’s mansion was just the break she needed. This lucrative job would do wonders with setting her up in a new place. The thought depressed her so she wiped it from her mind. She waited with her luggage at the predetermined meeting spot. A handsome young Latino man approached her. “Mariah Baker?” he asked in a heavily accented voice. “Yes.” She smiled graciously at him. “And you are?” “Alvaro Rodriguez.” He shook hands with her. “You recognized me?” Mariah couldn't help admiring his clothes. They complimented his lean body as if they’d been custom-designed for him. His impeccably styled black hair completed the picture of a well-put-together young man. Max’s staff certainly dressed with class. “From the pictures. They do not do you justice, I might add.” He glanced away as if he’d said too much. His dark face colored with embarrassment. “Pictures? Max has pictures of me?” “This way, please, Señorita Baker. We have a car waiting.” He ignored her question and reached for her bags. His eyes widened at the weight and size of them. Mariah followed him as he staggered with her luggage. “Do you work for the Delgado’s?” “I work for your client, yes.” Alvaro stumbled over one of her bags. Mariah glanced around, looking for a car. Much to her surprise, Alvaro escorted her to a stretch limo parked on the curb. The driver nodded as he

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held the door open for her. None of her clients had ever sent a limo to the airport for her. She was usually lucky to get a taxi. Alvaro stood back and waited for her. “After you.” He swept his hand in a gracious gesture. Halfway in the backseat, Mariah hesitated. Her eyes opened wide in disbelief. Flowers of every imaginable kind filled the limo to overflowing. A small wrapped package with her name on it sat on the table between the seats. Sensing a trap, Mariah backed up, but Alvaro gave her a gentle shove onto the leather seat. He wasted no time jumping in next to her and closing the door. The driver put the car in gear, and they were off with a squeal of tires, careening around the corner. If she didn’t know better, she’d think she’d been kidnapped by a crazed florist with excellent taste in clothes. Mariah gawked at the flowers with a mixture of wonder and suspicion. She’d never seen so many different kinds in a florist shop, let alone in a limo. Good thing she wasn’t plagued by allergies. The package with her name on it caught her attention. She ignored it, not wanting to know who it was from. She turned to Alvaro. He squirmed and popped his knuckles then started chewing his nails. Staring out the window, he watched the scenery go by like a dedicated tourist. Legitimate clients didn’t fill a limo with the entire contents of a small florist shop. Her eyes narrowed at Alvaro again. He refused to look at her and didn’t volunteer any information. Mariah stirred uncomfortably in her seat. The man wouldn't have any fingernails left by the time they got to their destination. It’d serve him right. “Why am I being transported in a rolling flower shop?” “The Delgado’s just wanted to welcome you to LA. Make you feel at home.” Home never felt like this. Summoning Scarlett, she concentrated on Alvaro. Despite her qualms about this trip, she liked him. She entertained herself by chipping away at Alvaro’s outer shell, asking him questions about LA until he relaxed and opened up to her. He admitted to being a young fashion designer trying to make it in a very competitive market. He talked with passion about his designs and about how difficult it was to get your foot in the door if you didn’t have a name or the right connections. Since clothes were right up her alley, she promised to drop by his shop while she was in town. As a self-

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confessed clothes addict, something new to wear appealed to her. The cost didn't, but since when had that ever stopped her. She’d been so entertained by him that she didn’t notice the change in scenery. They’d left the freeway and entered an area of small, trendy boutiques and shops on a tree-lined lane. The limo pulled to the curb in front of a two-story stucco building that appeared to house a hair salon upstairs. The sign over the door read ‘AlLeo’s.’ Sensing a trap, she glared at him. His nervousness returned. “Alvaro, what’s going on here?” Alvaro wrung his hands together and didn’t answer for several long seconds. “This is my shop. My partner and I own the building. He operates the hair salon on the upper floor.” “Alvaro, I'd love to see your shop, but I have a meeting with the Delgado’s.” Alvaro continued to stare out the window. “Actually, you don't.” The more nervous he became the more his accent thickened. “I don't? Was it postponed?” “Not exactly. You have an appointment with Leonardo and me.” “What?” Mariah’s mouth dropped open. “Am I doing an interior for the two of you instead?” Alvaro glanced guiltily at her. “No, not exactly. We are going to do something for you.” Mariah stared at the shop again. Things started to make more sense. Anger built inside her, doing a slow burn. Silently, she cursed herself for not listening to her intuition about this trip. She’d ignored all the signs, the sly smiles, the way Jamal and Eva shut up when she walked into the room, the limo, the weekend work. It meshed together into one big conspiracy with her as the victim and a Latin rat as the perpetrator. Her eyes locked on the small wrapped package. She picked it up and ripped off the wrapping paper to reveal a jewelry box. With trembling hands she opened the lid. A pair of large diamond earrings and a small note nestled in the velvet lining. She read it to herself. Mariah, please forgive me for being such a fool. I live for the moment I will see you again. It wasn’t signed, but it didn’t need to be.

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“How dare he make you do his dirty work.” She snapped the lid shut. “The coward! Take me back to the airport. I’m not doing this. You can tell my client to go to hell.” “I can’t take you anywhere else.” He stuffed his little finger in his mouth. Another fingernail bit the dust. “Come inside, please, let me explain, before you make your decision.” The driver took his cue and opened the door for them. Seething, Mariah stalked behind Alvaro into the boutique. She’d been deceived and kidnapped. Rico was going to die. No, that would be too easy. She couldn't think of a fate that suited this crime. Slow torture would be preferable. She could throw him in a pit with a thousand karaoke singers, or have him buried alive in a pile of horse manure, or.... She started smiling as she imagined creative ways to extract her revenge. Alvaro unlocked the front door of the boutique with his key since it was too early for the store to be open. Despite her anger, Mariah admired the window dressings and the clothes displayed on mannequins. “Are these your designs?” “Yes.” Alvaro seemed relieved by the brief reprieve from her wrath. He seemed to take her smile as a positive sign. “You're very good. She stopped to inspect a mini skirt and a silk blouse with the expertise of a professional shopper. Mariah jumped when she heard a racket coming from above. A tall man with long, dark hair tied back in a ponytail flew down the stairs. He slid to a stop in front of her, gesturing dramatically with his hands. His theatrical flair presented an obvious contrast Alvaro's quiet demeanor. His presence dominated and electrified the entire room. “Oh, my, this is her?” He raved in an accent not quite as pronounced as Alvaro's. “She's stunning. Such great raw material. This will be a simple task. We’ll make her the most beautiful woman there.” He inspected her, walking around her as if she was another one of the mannequins. Mariah’s mouth set in a thin line. What was the man ranting about? Most beautiful woman where? Whatever Rico/Rodrigo planned for tonight, she refused to be a willing party. “Mariah, meet my partner, Leonardo. He has the salon upstairs.”

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Leonardo ignored the hand she held out to him and hugged her enthusiastically. She fought for her breath. “It’s pleasure to meet you, Mariah. Now I understand why Rico couldn't forget you. A gorgeous man like that can have anyone he wants. I wondered why he insisted on flying someone all the way from Washington. Then I see you....” Mariah reined in her temper and gathered her composure. Rico would pay, but she would be clever about it. “Yes, such a gorgeous man. It's a shame he isn't going to live much longer.” Mariah smiled sweetly at them. Alvaro and Leonardo broke into nervous laughter. “Why am I here?” She looked from one to the other. “To escort Rico to the Delgado’s charity gala tonight. Everyone who is anyone in the music industry will be there. He knew if he asked you outright, you wouldn't go with him,” Leonardo explained. “Well, he’s right about one thing.” Mariah looked around, ready to take Rico down a few notches. “Where is the coward?” “He couldn’t get away. He’ll meet you at the party,” Alvaro explained. “I’ve designed the perfect gown for you to wear. We must hurry. I have alterations to make.” “I'm his stylist,” Leonardo interrupted. “My staff and I will be doing your hair, makeup, nails, the complete treatment. You’ll enjoy it. We'll pamper you.” He stood back and held his chin in his hand, studying her. Picking up a lock of her hair, he examined it. Mariah moved out of his range, but Leonardo followed her, grasping handfuls of her hair and piling it on top of her head in different arrangements. Meanwhile, Alvaro wound a tape measure around her waist and wrote down some numbers. “Let me guess, you’re telling me that I’m a modern-day Cinderella and that you’re my fairy godfathers?” The two of them hooted with laughter. In horror, Mariah covered her face with her hands. “Oh, my... Oh... I’m so sorry. I didn’t mean it that way.” The two men exchanged amused glances then continued their measuring, poking, and prodding. Mariah tried to move away from them, but they followed her wherever she went. “Uh, look, thank you. I appreciate this, really I do, but I can't stay. I'm not going anywhere with him.”

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Alvaro's notepad and tape measure fell to the floor. “I was afraid she was going to say that.” “You have to escort him. You must.” Leonardo gestured dramatically with his hands. Mariah backed up a step so he didn’t accidentally hit her in the face. “This will be Alvaro's big break. You must go. He needs this exposure.” “I'm not sure I understand.” “This is my chance, Mariah. Rico asked me to design this gown for you as a favor to Leonardo. Photographs of you with Rico will appear everywhere. You’ll be on TV, the Internet, everywhere, wearing my design. Leonardo interrupted. “This will be his big break! People will see you in his designs and the next morning, they'll be breaking our door down. If you won't do this for Rico, do it for him. You will be the most stunning woman there. Everyone will notice.” Mariah felt sick. She pictured photographs plastered everywhere of her on Rico’s arm. She’d be in an evening gown and he’d be wearing his disintegrating jeans. No thank you, she didn't need to see the public reminders of them together posted on the Internet or in gossip magazines. “I'm sorry, I'd love to help you out, but I just can't do it.” She skirted around Alvaro and moved toward the door. Leonardo leaped in front of her and blocked her exit route. No longer meek and quiet, Alvaro flung back his head and wailed in despair. He threw his arms around her and buried his face in her shoulder. Unable to break free, Mariah endured his clinging and bawling. Leonardo crossed his arms and glared at her. “He’s very sensitive. You’re doing irreparable damage to him. This is his life.” Mariah met Leonardo’s eyes over the top of Alvaro’s head while Alvaro sobbed into her Armani blouse. She prayed for the earth to swallow her up so she could disappear. “Okay. Okay! Just stop, please! I guess Cinderella is going to the ball.” The wailing stopped immediately. Alvaro looked up with a big smile on his face and hugged her tightly then Leonardo danced around them. “Rico knew you wouldn’t let me down. He said you were too kind.” Mariah stared at the two of them and sighed with resignation. Rico had set a clever trap for her and she’d walked right into it. There was no way out

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now. She’d sealed her fate. Two amateur con-artists, a devious ex-girlfriend, and a Latin rat had duped her. Her eyes narrowed as she considered her options. Don’t get mad, get even. **** Mariah twirled around on her spiked heels. She inspected herself from every angle in the full-length mirrors in the dressing area of the boutique. “Alvaro, lower the dress in back, please. Don’t show my behind but make it daring. I need a little more cleavage in front, too, not a lot more. I mean it's best to leave something to his imagination. I don't want anything tacky. What did you do with bodice of this dress? It looks great. He’s going to think I’ve gotten a boob job. And that slit up the side, it needs to go higher. The skirt needs to be tighter, too. Where can I buy perfume nearby?” Alvaro rolled his eyes. The more nervous Mariah became, the more she blabbered. “For a woman who didn’t want to do this in the first place, you’re certainly taking charge now. Rico said to keep the dress conservative.” “Well, now, Rico’s not wearing this dress, is he?” Mariah grinned at Alvaro. “He asked for it, now he’s going to get it, and then some.” Alvaro laughed. “You're going to kill him with this dress.” “I hope it’s a slow and painful death. Make those alterations, for me, Alvaro. Please.” Alvaro bowed lowed. “Rico told me to give you anything your heart desires.” “In that case, I’ll check out your boutique when we’re done with this dress fitting. I could use some new clothes.” Mariah smiled to herself. She’d get even more satisfaction from cleaning out this boutique and charging it all to him. Wait until Rico saw her in this dress. Alvaro had outdone himself. A few hours later she sat in a chair in Leonardo’s salon. “Leo, I’ve seen what you’ve done to Rico’s hair in person and in pictures. Sometimes I hate it, and sometimes I love it. You’d better illustrate to me exactly what you’re going to do to my hair before you lay on hand on it.”

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Leo laughed. “I promise it won’t be bleached blond spikes, if that’s what you’re worried about. Rico left instructions to make it soft, sexy, and romantic.” “Soft? Sexy? ROMANTIC!” Mariah jumped out of the chair. Leo pushed her back down. “That man is pushing it.” “Señor Sanchez is going to have his hands full with you, Mariah.” “Thank you.” She relaxed into the chair. “I want to make sure he knows what he's been missing, and what he’s going to keep missing.” “Oh, he's going to know. Without a doubt.” **** Rico paced like a caged tiger. He filled a plate with appetizers, only to leave them sitting on a table. He abandoned three different glasses of wine at separate locations throughout the room. If people noticed his edginess, they said nothing. After all, his nerves came from the debut of his first song in five years. It had nothing to do with her. Nothing. Rico glanced at the door and checked his watch every few seconds. If Mariah chose to make a scene, tonight would be the perfect night. Considering how keyed up he was, he’d probably come unhinged if she told him what he deserved to hear. Grabbing another glass of wine from a tray, he moved restlessly among the guests, keeping one eye on the door. In an earlier phone conversation, Leo assured him that once she got over the shock, she seemed to be in the spirit of things. Eduardo ditched his girlfriend of the moment and edged over to him. He placed a comforting hand on Rico’s shoulder in a rare fatherly gesture. Instead of countering with a smart remark, Rico gave him a distracted smile. “What if she’s furious at me?” “Work that old Sanchez charm on her, son. No woman can resist it.” “I’m too young to die.” **** Mariah rehearsed over and over in her mind how she’d react when she saw Rico. She’d smile and shake his hand or give him a polite kiss on the

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cheek. She’d treat him like a business associate, not like her former lover and love of her life. Cool and composed, she’d display no emotions. Besides, he deserved a cool reception considering how he’d tricked her. He’d be on his knees, pleading for another chance. Once he’d sufficiently groveled, she’d check into a hotel room—alone. And that would be that, thank you. Now, if only her imagined willpower actually existed. She traveled to the party in the limo with Alvaro and Leonardo. They kept a steady stream of conversation going back and forth to ease her nervousness. Not that it helped, but she appreciated their efforts. She was a certifiable wreck. Her stomach threatened mutiny. Her neck ached from tension. She sat on her hands to stop herself from chewing on her perfectly manicured fingernails. As their limo pulled up at the front entryway, a valet swept open the door. She really did feel like Cinderella arriving at the ball in her magnificent carriage. She hoped it didn’t turn into a pumpkin by the end of the night, or she’d be riding a city bus to the nearest hotel. Alvaro stepped out first then reached for her. Mariah took his hand, grateful for the support as she emerged from the safety of the limo onto the sidewalk. A large crowd of star watchers and reporters milled around nearby. They watched Mariah, Leonardo, and Alvaro, trying to figure out if they were somebodies or nobodies. The next limo pulled up, and the fickle crowd discarded the unknown trio. Alvaro winked at Mariah and squeezed her elbow. She gave him a shaky smile and took the arm he offered her. Leonardo paused to wave at the crowd. He presented the consummate romantic Latin figure, dressed completely in black with his dark hair pulled back in a tight pony tail. He stopped to sign a few autographs, talking with the fans as if he did this everyday. Mariah stifled a laugh as he signed his name as Antonio Banderas. The Delgado house was an old Hollywood-style mansion built in the 1940s. The huge ballroom was decorated like a tropical island paradise. Island music floated through the warm night. Candles and torches lent a romantic glow to the large room. Mariah peeked through the tropical plants at the entrance. The sheer number of people in the room sent her skittering backwards until she bumped into a large palm tree.

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She didn’t belong here. These people were celebrities or worked in the music business. Fear overwhelmed her. Alvaro had warned her that this was THE party of the year. How could Rico do this to her? Why had he made their reunion so public? Looking for an escape route, she barely dodged a waiter with a full tray of tropical drinks. Leo caught her arm as she was heading out the door and spun her back around. “You're not getting out of this now.” Leo passed her off to Alvaro. Trapped, she took a tentative step forward and pasted her best Princess Rye smile on her face. She clung to Leo as he guided her through the crowd towards their destination and her fate. Leonardo, ever the social animal, flitted around giving tips on hair design and clothes. He preened in his dramatic fashion at every compliment. Several people appraised Mariah as Alvaro maneuvered her through the crowd. They parted to let her pass. Judging by the greetings her escort received, he, too, knew the majority of the guests, perhaps, through Leonardo. Alvaro tightened his grip on her arm, not about to let her run now. He pointed towards a small group standing nearby, laughing and drinking. A man gorgeous enough to set the standard for all gorgeous men claimed the center of attention. Mariah dug her heels into the tile floor and refused to budge. Her scruffy frog had turned into a handsome prince. The polished, well-dressed stranger before her bore little resemblance to her Rodrigo. Not only was she out of her league, but she wasn’t even on the same planet with this man. When Rico noticed everyone’s gazes turning her way, his head turned. His penetrating brown eyes captured hers, weaving a spell around her heart. She forgot there were a couple hundred witnesses to this meeting. She forgot her rehearsed greeting. She stared dumbly at this stranger with Rodrigo’s espresso eyes. He stared at her with an intensity which made her breath catch in her throat. He was Rico Sanchez. The reality of it hit her like a hard left hook in the stomach. She yearned for that dangerous, scruffy Latin look she’d grown to love. She knew that man and understood him—to a point. This was an entirely different man altogether. Not a lock of his hair fell out of place and

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no stubble darkened his face. She suppressed the urge to run her fingers through those close-cropped strands and mess up his perfectly styled cut. His polished appearance exuded sex appeal. He wore designer clothes including a black jacket with leather cuffs and form-fitting black shirt unbuttoned a few buttons. She caught a glimpse of dark hair on his tanned, muscular chest and remembered how it looked bathed in sweat after they made love. Her eyes moved downward, she almost collapsed as all kinds of hot nasty thoughts raced through her mind. His tight, black leather pants sported an exposed zipper. Oh my, the games they could play with that zipper. And that unmistakable bulge. Had he been thinking of her? She’d counted on her gown making him crazy. She never considered that his clothes might do the same to her. A hush came over the people in his small group. They looked her way with curious expressions on their faces. She remained frozen like a tongue to an ice cube. Wonders of wonders, her lungs drew air in and out. Her feet needed help though. If she didn’t move soon, they’d start using her for a coat rack. When she realized she’d been staring at his crotch, she jerked her head upward and concentrated on his chin. The man had a gorgeous chin. A slow cocky smile crossed his lips. It was a wicked Rodrigo smile on Rico Sanchez's smooth-shaven face. Her face flushed bright red. She shifted uneasily, balancing on her spiked heels. This man standing in front of her conveyed perfection. She wanted to run, to hide. She couldn’t do this. She shouldn’t be with a man like this. Her scruffy cowboy now had transformed into a polished prince. Cinderella wanted to leave the ball. To top it off, this incredibly sexy man stared at her with a hunger he didn't try to conceal. Like the town gossip lighting up the phone lines, her brain raced to alert the rest of her body. Little thrills of organic electricity shot through her, threatening sensual overload and common sense underload. Then he sealed her fate. He smiled a lopsided Rodrigo smile. Her heart did a little tap dance all over her remaining common sense. Sucker that she was, she fell for him all over again in less than five seconds. Not that she’d ever stopped falling for him.

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His most decadent fantasies couldn't do justice to this vision standing five feet from him. Her angelic face and uncertain expression betrayed her insecurities. She hadn't a clue how stunning she was. One corner of his mouth turned up in a crooked smile. She bit her lower lip. Rico suppressed a moan. Let me nibble on that lip for you, babe. Her silky hair shone like a brightly polished mahogany table. Thanks to Leonardo’s expertise it cascaded in waves over her shoulders and down her back in thick curls. He’d give anything to fill his hands with that hair. She wore more makeup than usual. Her eyes looked larger and even more exotic, the green even deeper than he remembered. Her dark red lips invited his kisses, lush and moist. Oh, man, what he wanted those lips to do to him. Then there was that dress. It exposed too much of her long legs and silky skin. He'd specifically told Alvaro to keep it modest. The silky, black material clung to every curve. It dipped low into a “V” in front and was held up by small spaghetti straps that crisscrossed behind her back. Her lush breasts spilled over the top, tormenting and tantalizing. Lowering one thin strap would expose her enticing nipples. These tight leather pants of his hadn’t been a good choice tonight. He shifted uncomfortably. The back dipped low and fell in a few soft folds below her waist. If he stood close enough behind her, he might get a view of her sweet little rear. A daring slit in one side stopped short of her hip and exposed one shapely thigh. Those black, spiked heels would be the only things she’d be wearing later tonight if he had his way. Most important of all, his pendant decorated her elegant neck, and his diamond earrings glittered in her ears. He needed something to hold onto, the back of a chair, somebody’s arm, anything, because his legs no longer understood their function. Every cell in his body reacted to the sight of her. Every nerve ending crackled with electric excitement. Her beauty staggered him. His throat grew tight, and he swallowed hard. He felt this incredible surge of emotion. It attacked him so swiftly that he momentarily panicked.

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They started walking toward each other. A few feet from Rico, Mariah lost her composure. She let out a squeal of delight and launched herself at him. He stumbled backwards, caught off guard by her enthusiastic greeting. Recovering quickly, he wrapped his arms around her and hugged her close. God, she felt so good. Grasping her slender waist, he lifted her in the air and spun her around while she clung to him, laughing and crying at the same time. He made himself so dizzy he worried they might end up sprawled on the floor. Not such a bad idea but probably not best place or time. Putting her down, he buried his face in her hair. The scent of her floated in the air around him. She wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her sweet little body against his. Rico sighed happily as he continued to hug her. God, he’d hurt her, but she was here. She’d forgive him, she had to forgive him. He’d do everything in his power to gain her trust again. Holding her felt like coming home after a long absence.

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Chapter 17 The Party Mariah hugged Rico tightly. She pressed her face against his shoulder. She breathed in his scent, appealing and erotic in a blatantly masculine way. It overwhelmed her, engulfed her, yet comforted her. “I'm glad you're here,” Rico whispered as he held her to him. Suddenly remembering where she was and how she got there, she jerked away from him. He didn’t deserve this kind of reception. Her joy in seeing him turned to anger. She glared at him, hands on her hips, looking indignant. She’d made a fool of herself by launching her body at him like a burst out of a flare gun. Rico’s amiable grin infuriated her all the more. Putting his arm around her, he tucked her body close to his side and ignored her resistance. “You’re going to pay for this.” Her voice dripped syrup. “I don’t get mad. I don’t get even. I get ahead. Remember that.” Rico laughed heartily. “I’m happy to see you, too, baby.” He smiled indulgently and kissed the tip of her nose. She scowled at him. He turned to the group of people standing nearby. “What did I tell you? Ed, isn’t she charming? A lamb one minute and a lioness the next. She keeps me guessing all the time.” Mariah attempted to extract herself from Rico's hold without being too obvious, but she was no match for his strength. She'd have to make a scene to break free. She shot sparks at Rico until she expected him to go up in flames at any moment. “What’s she like when she’s really angry?” The older man watched her with amused interest. Rico laughed. “Exciting.” He gave her an affectionate kiss on the cheek. “Mariah, this is my father, Eduardo.”

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Mariah stiffened then composed herself. Smiling engagingly at Eduardo, she offered her hand to him. “It’s very nice to meet you, Señor Sanchez. I wish I could say that I’ve heard a lot about you. Unfortunately, I can’t because I didn’t know Rico’s true identity the entire time we were together.” She shot another fiery salvo in Rico’s direction. His bemused expression only added flames to the fire building inside her. Eduardo stared deeply into her eyes, clasped her hand, and kissed it briefly. “I must say I’ve heard plenty about you, my dear. It’s a pleasure to meet you. Pictures don’t do justice to your beauty. And please, call me Eduardo.” This gorgeous man oozed charisma like tree sap and just as sticky. The ultimate charmer, like father, like son. Mariah’s face colored. “Thank you. Al and Leo did a great job.” She cast a quick glance in Rico’s direction. Her anger dissipated somewhat. “You showed pictures of us to your father?” Rico shrugged. That darn man had her just where he wanted her. Her temper might flare and burn hot, but it burned out just as quickly. She cursed her weakness. Regardless, she might as well enjoy the position he’d forced her into, at least for the evening. “And this is my sister, Angelina.” Mariah smiled at the petite young woman. Rico’s sister was a little firecracker, a dynamo packed into a 5’-1” frame. “So very nice to meet you, Angelina.” Angelina’s smile was warm and genuine. “It’s a real pleasure to meet you. We’ll have to swap Rico stories someday soon.” Mariah wasn’t committing to anything. Once this evening ended, she’d be on the first plane back to Seattle. “Certainly.” “We’re glad you’re finally here. My dear brother’s been on pins and needles all day. Absolutely a bear to deal with.” Rico’s protest was interrupted by a man resembling a younger version of Rico. He elbowed his way to center stage.” Mariah, I’m Rico’s brother, Ramon. I’m the reason we’re all celebrating tonight. After all, it’s my talents that’ll take that mediocre song to the top.” Rico bristled and made a move to step forward. Angelina placed a restraining hand on his arm. “You stole that song from me. I never wanted you to sing it.” He ground out through his teeth.

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Mariah observed the little family spat with interest. “It’s nice to meet you, Ramon.” She held her hand out to Ramon and wasn’t disappointed. He took her hand and made quite a show out of kissing each finger. My God, this sexual aura surrounding the Sanchez men must be genetic. Rico stiffened and wrenched her closer to his side. His homicidal expression didn’t deter Ramon. “When you get tired of this loser, Mariah, give me a call. I know how to treat a lady right.” He winked at her, causing her to giggle. “Oh, Estelle, over here!” Angelina gestured to a tall slender woman with the gaunt appearance of a model. The woman sauntered over, drink in hand. “Ramon, there you are. I’ve been looking for you. You little devil, you snuck off.” Ramon frowned, but didn’t resist when she slipped an arm in his and guided him away from the group. Smooth move on Angelina’s part. Time sped by in a whirl of introductions and small talk. She met everyone from family to long-time friends, celebrities, and business associates. Rico plastered his leather-pants-clad body to her side and never let go of her. If he didn’t have an arm around her, he held her hand. Judging by the other guests’ surprised expressions, this wasn’t normal behavior for him. She adopted her best Princess Rye demeanor and turned on the charm. Her college sorority sisters would have been proud. Working the crowd, she met every comment on her dress with a sales pitch for Alvaro. Something positive might as well come of this situation. Being her mother’s daughter, she knew how to mingle and carry on polite conversation. She smiled so much it felt painted on her face. Finally, Rico took pity on her and asked her to dance a slow dance. He pulled her close to him, despite her feeble attempts to keep a safe distance. “You really are Rico Sanchez.” She looked up at him, still trying to come to terms with this polished stranger who had Rodrigo’s eyes. His chuckle rumbled in his chest. “Did you think I might turn out to be someone else?” “No, it's not that. You’re so different. I miss my scruffy Rodrigo.” She stared over her shoulder at the party around her. “Do you love this?”

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“Sometimes. But anymore, I don’t think I could handle a steady diet of it. I’d rather work behind the scenes. I love discovering new talent and promoting them. My real passion is writing songs, not singing them.” “Ramon said something about singing your song?” “Yeah, my mediocre song that he’ll catapult up the charts.” Oops. Maybe she shouldn’t have sliced open that gaping wound. “So you’ve been writing?” His expression changed, seemed almost tender. “After a very long writer’s block, I wrote it in the San Juans after I saw the whales. Ramon does it justice, as much as I hate to admit it. He’s a great performer, loves the spotlight, something I never cared for. We’re debuting it tonight. It’ll be the first single release on Ramon’s new CD next month. I wouldn't have written it if it hadn’t been for you.” He looked away and a muscle worked in his jaw. He swung his gaze back to hers. “That’s why I needed you here.” His confession disturbed her. This man rarely admitted to a weakness or to needing anyone. “You seem to be accepted again.” “Little by little. People who really know me, know I have integrity. The rest, well, I hope my actions eventually convert or silence the majority of my accusers.” The dance ended, and she moved away from him. “Will you tell me what really happened four years ago?” She needed to know, had to know his part in all that. “Later, not now.” He took her hand. “Let’s go outside. I haven't had one moment alone with you.” He led her outside to the long balcony that ran the expanse of the house. Grasping her around the waist, he sat her on the marble railing and perched next to her. Mariah looked down at his leather-clad thigh. “Are you wearing Armani?” “Sí.” “It’s not off the rack.” She knew her fashion. “Come to my house, and you’ll see a closet full of clothes like this.” That’d be a cold day in hell. She wouldn’t go near that lion’s den. No way. But that wouldn't stop her from extracting a little more revenge. She touched his knee and let the vixen inside take over. “Did you wear those for me?” She indicated his pants with her eyes.

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“Would you want me to wear them for you?” Goose bumps popped out all over her body at the sound of that low, sexy voice. She forced a sassy smile. This was her game, not his. “Yes, most definitely.” “Then I did. I noticed you took a long look at my crotch earlier. Did you like what you saw?” Boldly, Mariah looked down at his exposed zipper then back up at him. “Yes. It appears you’re happy to see me.” She’d tease and torment him then when the night ended, she’d leave him unsatisfied and wanting her. Revenge would be sweet. She just needed the strength to stick to her convictions. He’d already burrowed deep into her heart at first glance. She was certain he planned on burrowing elsewhere before the night ended. “I love your dress.” He fingered the material on her hip. “Thank you. Alvaro adjusted it for me.” The better to torture you with, my dear. “I’m glad he did. I know I appreciate the view.” His eyes took a vacation down the contours of her body. “You’ve gotten him enough business tonight to keep him busy for a year.” “I hope so. That’s why I did this.” Rico frowned for a moment but recovered instantly, turning on the ol’ Sanchez charm’ again. “Baby, I’ve missed you.” He scooted closer and put an arm around her. His warm breath tickled her collarbone. He planted a trail of kisses up her neck. Sucking her earlobe into his mouth, he nipped it gently. She held her breath as a shudder vibrated through her body. Every cell lusted for him with an intensity only he invoked. She prayed for the strength to resist. “I’ve missed you, too.” She turned her head to look up at him, letting her lips brush his. He smiled at her with a mixture of surprise and pleasure in his eyes. His mouth captured hers. The kiss started soft and gentle. She opened her mouth to his insistent tongue and everything exploded. Their kiss deepened and their tongues met in their trademark sensual dance. Mariah broke it off first. She dug through her purse for her compact, certain her lipstick was smudged and needing something to occupy her hands. Rico stroked her bare back and shoulders as her traitorous body trembled.

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He squeezed her hand and met her eyes. “I saw your picture in the paper with that football jock. Have you been seeing him?” So he’d noticed. A little sliver of satisfaction shot through her. Mariah slanted him a sly sideways glance. “Seeing him? I’m crazy about him. Actually, he’s such a fantastic lover, I had his name tattooed on my inner thigh.” Rico's eyes narrowed and darkened. “Are you afraid I’ve been practicing what you taught me?” She ran her fingers across his smooth-shaven cheek. At least, she wouldn’t get whisker burns tonight. She didn’t mean that. She wasn’t going home with him. She wasn’t. “Maybe.” He stared at her bare leg, rubbing her knee with his fingers. “So the thought of me with another man bothers you?” Mariah pressed the issue. “I guess it does.” His seductive talents were hard enough to resist, but his vulnerability might be her undoing. **** Mariah sat down at the table reserved for Rico's party. The tables were done in white linen, silver, and multi-colored candles. He pushed her chair in like a gentleman then took the seat next to her. His family plus Al and Leo joined them with their plates from the buffet line. Mariah glanced at Rico with a teasing glint in her eyes. “Do you have a big SUV or a truck?” “Yeah, a Land Rover. Why?” Mariah looked at Alvaro. “Will that be big enough if we take out the back seat?” “I hope so.” Al smiled at her but avoided looking at Rico. “I bought a few things at Al’s boutique and charged them to you. I knew you wouldn’t mind.” “A few things?” “Well, more than a few. Can you send someone to pick them up tomorrow?” “How many things?” Rico looked at Alvaro.

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“You told me to give her anything she wanted. She wanted almost everything in my store that fit her. It’s a good thing you have a high credit limit.” “Shit.” Rico sighed. “Mariah....” Mariah bestowed her dazzling smile on all of them. Everyone else found her amusing. Chalk up one point for her. Hours later, Mariah found herself left alone at the table. Rico had excused himself to speak privately with a singer his company was trying to court. Earlier, Ramon had sung Rico’s song beautifully. It’d brought tears to her eyes, moving her deeply. As far as she was concerned, it had been the highlight of the night. The band announced the last dance. She turned in her seat, scanning the crowd for the no-longer scruffy Latin. They had to dance the last dance. After this, she’d be going home. Ramon caught Mariah’s eye and winked at her. She smiled. He'd danced up a storm with every woman in the place. The man was an excellent dancer, lean, and lithe, and graceful in a very masculine way. As Mariah longingly watched the dancers, she found herself seeking out Ramon again. A slow, suggestive smile crossed his face. Mariah smiled shyly back then looked away. She attempted in vain to coerce the men sitting at Rico’s table to dance with her. They’d been there, done that. She’d exhausted all of them. She scanned the crowd for a dance partner. She jumped when she felt a touch on her shoulder. Ramon stood next to her chair. “You did an incredible job on Rico’s song. It meant so much to him.” Rico would never admit to that, but she’d seen the pride gentling his brown eyes when his brother performed. Ramon stared into her eyes and bowed deeply. “It was my pleasure. I only ask one thing in exchange. Would you dance with me? I think you and I could show the rest of these people a thing or two.” Dancing with Rico’s close friends was one thing, dancing with his gorgeous, sexy brother was another. Then again, she wanted revenge and what better way? It served the man right for deserting her before the last dance.

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“Rico won’t mind sharing you, after all I am his brother. Isn’t that right, Papa?” Eduardo didn’t respond, but looked a little ill. Throwing caution and good sense to the wind, Mariah stood and took the hand Ramon offered her. Over Ramon’s shoulder, Eduardo shook his head and made stop gestures with his hands. She frowned at him. Shaking her head, she let Ramon pull her to the dance floor. Glancing back she winked at Eduardo. Mariah stepped into Ramon’s arms about the same time that she caught sight of Rico from the corner of her eye. He stopped, puzzled, and scanned the guests then the dance floor. Rico scowled, balling his hands into fists. Ramon angled his head to nibble on Mariah’s neck. Rico’s face contorted with barely controlled rage. She tried to push Ramon away, but he held her tighter. Rico steamed toward them. He grabbed Mariah by the shoulder and spun her around as a startled Ramon let go of her. “She's with me.” If his voice got any tighter, he’d shatter his vocal cords. Rico pulled Mariah against him and glared at Ramon over her shoulder. Ramon shrugged. “Chill. We were just dancing. It's not like I was taking her home with me. Yet.” Rico shook with fury. He wrapped his arm around Mariah's waist and hauled her away. Her feet barely touched the floor. Ramon followed closely on their heels. “We're leaving,” Rico announced to the group at his table. Mariah stood beside him, confused and helpless. She gathered up her things, watching Rico warily. She cast a worried glance in Ramon's direction. Rico caught the look. He grabbed her hand, held it tightly, and turned to leave. Ramon fell into step beside them. “Mariah, if you come to your senses and get tired of this guy, give me a call. You have my number.” She opened her mouth to disagree. She didn’t have his number. “She's not calling you. Ever.” Rico shot each clipped word at Ramon like bullets out of a gun. Ramon grinned. “I'll let Mariah decide that.” Mariah smiled graciously at him. “Thank you, Ramon.” “My pleasure, baby. Don't forget lunch. I'll call you.”

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Chapter 18 The Heat “What is wrong with you?” Mariah snapped. Her green eyes flashed with indignance as Rico hauled her into the back seat of the limo with very little finesse. She landed on the seat with a thud. Her dress hiked up to the point of being indecent. Even in his fury, he enjoyed the view. She yanked down the skirt and cast a quick glance toward the driver. The divider between them prevented the man from seeing anything. Rico stared straight ahead and said nothing as the sleek limo pulled away from the party. A muscle twitched in his jaw, betraying his anger. Actually, anger was an understatement. He seethed inside. Back in the dark recesses of his mind, he knew he was being unreasonable. But she was his, damn it. She shouldn't let that little punk fondle her like that. “Where are we going?” Mariah asked as she tugged on her dress. “My house.” He gritted his teeth so hard his head hurt. How could she act so cool, so perfect? She'd been perfect all night. So perfect it was as if she didn't need him. He wanted to throw something and release the frustration. Instead, he put his arm around her and pulled her closer. His movements were angry and stiff and possessive rather than affectionate. “Drop me off at a hotel.” Mariah pouted. “Your luggage is at my house.” Rico made a momentous effort to keep his voice level. “I'll do without it. I can buy what I need or the hotel can supply it.” Mariah stared straight ahead. “I don't think so, bella.” No way in hell was he sleeping without her tonight. Not after looking at her in that dress, hearing her delightful laugh, and dancing close to her. Not after she charmed his friends and family until they were eating out of her hand. Not after seeing her eyes flash different

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shades of green when he hauled her out of the party. Especially, not after watching her dance in that revealing dress with his worthless brother. Shit, they’d practically had sex on the dance floor. Okay, maybe he was blowing that out of proportion. Regardless, that punk should know better than to be messing with Rico’s woman. He was not sleeping alone tonight. He’d bodily carry her into his house—and his bedroom—if that was what it took. He’d brand her with his body, stamp her as his. He’d be the only man she’d ever want after tonight. He'd make her as desperate for him as he was for her. “I'm not staying in your house.” He faked a cocky smile. “What's the matter, baby? Afraid you'll find me irresistible?” He needled her, allowing a smug, superior tone to creep into his voice Mariah’s eyes scanned the length of his body. “In those pants? What do you think?” Rico laughed at her forthrightness, but anger still simmered below the surface. “I was hoping they'd have that effect on you.” Mariah rubbed his thigh. “What am I going to do with you?” She sighed and laid her head on his shoulder. “I could think of several things for starters.” His anger fizzled with her touch, and he found it difficult to stay mad at this woman. He’d been an ass and tried to pick a fight with her. Yet, she responded with affection. God, she was going to drive him crazy. “I know you can. Please, Rico, take me to a hotel. I can't do this. I can't have sex with someone to have sex. I told you that I'm not good with casual sex. I get too emotionally involved. I’m still recovering from you.” If he had a vote, she’d never recover. Her attempt to appeal to his basic sense of decency wouldn’t work either. He didn’t feel very decent tonight. “I know a lot of women just jump in bed and don’t get involved. That's not me. I wish it was, because I really would like nothing better than to go home with you tonight.” “Then prove it to me, because it appeared you wanted to go home with Ramon. The guy was salivating at the thought of having you.” He clenched his jaw and tightened his grip on her, mad all over again.

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Educating her had been one of the most pleasurable experiences of his life. It was his private pleasure, no one else's but his. He was determined to keep it that way. How much he meant that surprised him. He didn't want any other man to have her. Over his dead body would Ramon ever know the pleasure of feeling her sexy body underneath his. That little display tonight wouldn’t happen again. “Rico, honestly, I just danced with him. He sang your song beautifully. I felt I owed him a dance. I had no idea you'd take it so seriously.” “You never want to owe a guy like that anything, Mariah.” “I was having a little fun. It didn't mean anything. I don't have a date with him for lunch, and I don't have his phone number. I wanted to dance with you, but you left me alone.” She crossed her arms over her chest. “I have no idea why I'm explaining my actions to you. It's really none of your business.” “Do you think he’s attractive?” “Well, yeah, what woman wouldn’t? He looks just like you. But he's much too young. I don’t want to be with him.” “Prove it. Tonight, Mariah. It has to be tonight.” He felt insecure and vulnerable and out of sorts. He’d sworn long ago that no one would ever put him in that position again, especially not a woman. What was he really pissed about? The fact that she’d been rubbing up against Ramon or that she gained enough confidence by the end of the evening that she hadn’t seemed to need him? He needed her to need him. The limo wound up the steep road, taking them closer to home. Rico’s Malibu estate was perched high on the hillside with an expansive view of the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean. The limo drove through the iron gates and parked under the Mediterranean mansion’s portico. Rico glanced at Mariah. She looked confused and flustered. Good. She placed a hand on his arm. His entire body stiffened involuntarily under her touch. “Tell me one thing. Is Rico Sanchez as good a lover as Rodrigo Perez?” “Better.” He promised then turned to help her out of the limo. His voice resonated with confidence he didn’t feel. He wasn’t leaving any room for an argument. Holding her hand, he led her to the massive front door, all the while planning his next move.

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In the islands, Rico as Rodrigo had made love to her within her comfort zone. He’d strove to give her an enjoyable experience and to build her confidence. Rico's intentions weren't quite so honorable this time. He’d expand her limits. See what she could handle. Stretch her comfort zone even if it made her a little uneasy at first. He needed more of her and from her. He’d bungled things so badly where she was concerned, he’d assess the damage by testing the depths of her desire for him. Would she give him everything if he asked for it? Would she give him a family, be faithful to him, and not betray him? Those questions seared through his mind like a wildfire across dry grass. He frowned and wondered how he’d gotten into this so deeply. **** Rico towed Mariah up the dark sweeping staircase, not bothering to turn on lights. She stumbled a few times, but he steadied her. Despite her feeble protests, she wanted to spend the night in bed with him. Adios, and kiss her heart goodbye. The darn thing leapt right into his arms and snuggled down for the duration. Her head stood back and cursed her foolish heart. A lot of good it did, though. The man molded her like putty in his hands, and her power to resist evaporated in the warm California night. His eyes softened slightly as he paused in front of a massive door on the second floor. Regardless, she could tell by the way his fingers gripped her arm tightly that he was still very upset with her. She stood uncertainly beside him. He turned to her, his face expressionless, bent down and picked her up in his arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and buried her face in his shoulder, fighting back tears. The day’s events overwhelmed her. How much more could one girl take? She needed comfort and reassurance, yet the stiffness in his body indicated he wasn't done being mad at her. He owed her an apology, several, in fact. Yet, she couldn’t muster enough self-righteous indignation to fight with him. He'd managed to turn the tables on her, and she’d let him do it. Tomorrow when she recovered, she’d put him in his place.

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He’d reacted like a jealous lover when he found her dancing with Ramon. In order to be jealous, you needed to care. Earlier he’d admitted he missed her. He carried her into the huge master suite, impressive with the old Spanish antiques and dark rich colors. The room radiated masculinity and provided a comfortable refuge from the world. Rico put her down inside the door and kissed her tenderly on the lips. He broke the kiss and held her at arm’s length. “Don’t move,” he ordered her gently. He left her standing in the middle of the room. He took his time lighting candles which he magically found in the darkness of the unlit room. Mariah watched him, apprehensive but filled with anticipation. She’d break down that wall between the two of them if it took all night. Rico Sanchez would pay for all he'd put her through. He’d pay with the one thing that he never gave away—his heart. She wouldn't take anything less. After lighting several dozen candles, he dropped into a big overstuffed chair and removed his boots and socks. Unbuttoning his shirt, he pulled it off, carelessly throwing it on the floor. He sat back in a deceptively lazy manner. Mariah stood in the middle of the room. Her gaze wandered down the length of him. Even in the candlelight, the tanned skin on his bare chest glowed golden. A trail of dark hair disappeared at the waistband of his leather pants. The unmistakable bulge below his waist drew her attention. Her body, trained by the master of seduction himself, reacted to his obvious arousal. Watching her, Rico stretched his long legs, opening them in a wide V to reward her with a better view. A wetness spread between her legs as her senses jumped to do his bidding. The man smiled a knowing smile. Her eyes shifted downward again. She wanted her legs entwined with his. She wanted his chest hair tickling her breasts. She wanted him driving deep inside her. Oh God. She wanted so much more. He cleared his throat. She averted her eyes to his face. He raised an eyebrow. She’d been caught red-handed thinking dirty thoughts about him. “Mariah,” he said in a low, sexy voice with that accent that made her tremble. She started to take a step toward him.

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He held a hand up to indicate he wanted her to stop. Bewildered, she stopped several feet from him. “Strip for me, Baby,” he ordered in a husky whisper. His brown eyes took a slow detour over her body on their way to meet her eyes. “Por favor.” His voice was now tender after seeing her discomfort. “I...can't.” Mariah pleaded with him. “Yes, you can. When you enter this room, you leave your inhibitions outside that door.” His voice held an edge to it she’d never heard before. “Do this for me, Rye. Do this for Rico. You stripped for me when you thought I was just Rodrigo. Now, strip for me.” His eyes gleamed with anticipation and something else that gave her hope. They locked eyes in a silent battle of wills. Mariah-putty-in-his-handsBaker looked away first. She took a deep breath, feeling shy, self-conscious, and pissed. A smart woman would have walked out the door and never looked back. She couldn’t. Her feet weren’t interested in leaving. Mariah slipped her fingers under the straps on her dress. Sliding them off her shoulders, she stopped before exposing her breasts. She glanced up at him through lowered lashes. Desire smoldered in his eyes, but not a smidgen of mercy. He nodded and made a downward motion with his hand, indicating he expected her to continue. With trembling fingers, she pealed the tight dress down past her erect nipples until it encircled her slim waist. She heard Rico's sharp inhalation as he gazed at her bare skin. Without looking up, she tugged the dress down past her hips and her thighs. She shook it off her legs, letting it drop to the floor. A scrap of lace and her spiked heels remained on her body as Mariah’s last stand. He smiled appreciatively when she looked at him with an unspoken question in her eyes. “Everything.” His voice caressed her. No woman could refuse him, least or all this woman. She spied on him through the curtain of her hair. Her fingers hooked on either sides of her underwear. He swallowed as she removed those little panties and stood before him in all her naked beauty. “No, leave those,” he insisted when she started to take off her heels. She straightened “Don't move. Let me enjoy the way the light plays on your body.” Mariah stood still for an eternity as he studied her in the candlelight.

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“Are you cold?” He must have noticed her trembling body and tight nipples. She merely stared at him. Cold was the last thing she felt, and he knew it. His smile turned predatory. “By the end of the night, you’ll forget Ramon’s name.” “Rico....” He interrupted her. “Turn around for me, bella. Slowly.” She froze for a moment. Gathering her courage, she turned around. Not the least bit graceful, she executed a jerky 360 then turned back to face him. Her breasts rose and fell with each uneasy breath that she took. Rico licked his lips in anticipation. He’d be sorry for tormenting her like this, and what a sweet payback it would be. Abruptly, he rose to his feet, speaking to her gently in Spanish and English. He approached her carefully as if she’d bolt and run at any moment. She caught some of the words: Beautiful, my love, beautiful. Mine, only mine.... She didn't move when he stopped inches from her. He cupped her chin in his hand and kissed her eyelids. His lips grazed hers but didn't linger. His bare chest rubbed against her breasts in a slow, sensuous motion. He placed his hands on her hips and slowly moved her backwards until the backs of her thighs bumped into the bed. He eased her down onto the mattress and stood back to admire her. Mariah lay sprawled on the bed. She stared up at him. He didn't look like her scruffy Rodrigo. No stubble on this man’s face. This Rico was a smooth, polished, well-dressed man who knew exactly what he wanted and how to get it. It was like sleeping with a stranger who wasn't a stranger. She wanted to know this part of him, and yet she didn’t. Tonight he was Rico Sanchez. She saw it in his eyes and in the way he treated her, tested her. He demanded she participate in what was happening. His expectations seemed to keep expanding, yet she’d met those expectations all night. She’d seen the proud and pleased looks that came her way from him throughout the evening. Then she’d seen the possessiveness flash in his eyes. When she’d danced with Ramon possession turned to anger and something else. Was it hurt and betrayal she’d seen written across his face. Rico kneeled on the mattress. Placing his hands under her arms, he slid her body upward until the pillows cradled her head. He spread her legs wide

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and knelt between her knees, taking in the sight of her. His eyes traveled appreciatively down her body, past her small waist and hips and across her flat stomach. He focused on the curls between her legs. She couldn’t hide how much she wanted him. His eyes skimmed down her thighs to her legs. He moaned softly and looked up to meet her gaze. She had him now. “On your back, Amigo. You’re still dressed.” Much to her surprise, he complied, watching her with half-lidded eyes. She kissed a trail down his body, stroking him with her hands. “It's not fair that you still have your pants on. I want to see you.” “Then do something about it.” She’d do something about it all right. She stuck her tongue in his navel, dragging a tortured groan from him. Her fingers slipped inside his pants. Using her teeth, she pulled down the zipper, taking her time. “Dios,” His voice sounded strangled, like a man in pain; delicious, sweet, torturous pain. His cock sprang free from his tight pants. She sat back on her haunches to strip the soft leather from his thighs. Through lidded eyes he absorbed the view of her naked body straddling his thighs. She discarded his pants with a flourish. Mariah bent down on her hands and knees, purposely giving him a view of her butt in the air and her breasts rubbing against his inner thighs. Propping herself on one arm, she cupped his balls gently, stroking and caressing them. He swallowed, his breathing labored. “No more,” he croaked. The next thing she knew, she was on her back, and he hovered over her. Her evil Gemini twin reared its horny head. She grinned wickedly. “What's the matter, Cowboy, can't you take the heat?” “No, I can't.” The little tease knew she’d aroused him to the point of no return with her performance. He had to have her now. He should wait, but he couldn’t. It’d been too long. Too many lonely nights and broken dreams. “The heat is right here.” He nudged her legs further apart with his knees and slipped a hand between their lower bodies. He teased just the right spot and was rewarded with a throaty whimper. Satisfied she was ready for him, he poised his hard, throbbing cock at her warm, wet entrance. He gritted his teeth from the effort it took to keep from ramming into her in one swift hard

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stroke. She trusted him with her body, and he wouldn’t ruin her shaky confidence. “Have you had anyone since me?” His voice strained from the effort to get the words out between his clenched teeth. She stared at him and shook her head. “Not even the football player?” She shook her head again. The look in her eyes made his heart race. How had ever doubted her feelings for him? It was written so clearly on her face and in her expressive eyes. She loved him. Mariah moved underneath him, teasing him. He pinned her body with his so she couldn't torment him and seize control. She arched her hips and ground them into his aching erection. Her strength surprised him. She wrapped her legs tightly around his waist to position his body where she wanted it. “Mariah, if you don't stop, I'm going to lose it. I don't want to be rough, amor.” God, he loved those legs of hers wrapped around him and the feel of her soft skin against his. He stared down at her. Her long hair fanned out on the pillows like a halo. Her eyes were a deep green, their brightness reflecting how much she craved his touch. A thrill of excitement shot through him. Her warm breath tickled his neck. A hunger so powerful it was terrifying filled him. Coherent thoughts disappeared from his mind. She existed only for him, and he existed only for her. There was nothing else occupying the time and space they occupied together. Mariah moved her head to find his mouth. His tongue tangled with hers in a wild dance of the senses, pulling him down, down, down. She was all he needed, all he wanted. She was his. She always had been. She always would be. That was their destiny. This woman filled in the missing piece of his life. Everything was as it should be when he was with her. The colors of the day were that much brighter, the softness of the dusk was that much softer, the secret messages in his dreams were that much clearer. Dragging her mouth away from his, she panted from the pleasure of his touch. “Now. Now, I want all of you now. Don't treat me like China. Give it to me. Now.” She gasped when his index finger teased her clit. She moved against him, and he clung to his last vestiges of control. His cock probed her opening. Her wetness made it so easy to slip inside her. He meant to go

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slow, but she writhed underneath him and dug her fingernails into his butt to encourage him. He drove into her with such force that it lifted her hips off the bed. She cried out his name, gasping, not in pain, but in pure ecstasy. He existed in an erotic, mindless state of pleasure. It was heaven on earth, and he never wanted to find his way back to reality. This woman intoxicated him. She touched him in ways that defied all logic. She was tender and wild, shy and bold, sweet and wicked, until he was feverish with desire and a physical aching need that only she could satisfy. She tightened around him, her muscles tensing as she started to reach completion. Not without me, baby. She tilted her hips to take him deeper, instinctively encouraging him. He thrust into her one final time and shuddered deep inside her, finding his release. He cried out her name, over and over. She took him to that place where words weren't necessary and emotions were clear. They declared their feelings for each other without fears, concerns, and insecurities. Nothing was hidden. All was revealed with perfect clarity. They were meant for each other, and there wasn't an outside force on this planet that could destroy that. The damage could only be done from within.

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Chapter 19 The Truth Rico collapsed on top of Mariah, limp—literally—with satisfaction. She lay quietly underneath him. A comfortable silence enveloped the room. A peacefulness surrounded him and drained the tension from his body. He felt complete with the knowledge, at least in that moment, that they were one mind, one body, one soul. Her soft laughter roused him. He still lay on top of her, still inside her. She shifted underneath him and giggled again. He pulled back to stare at her. Mariah smiled up at him, laughing at some secret joke. She pushed at his chest with her hands. He lifted his upper body off her. His hips rubbed against hers in a sensuous circular motion. She pushed at him again. He ignored her and planted little kisses on her neck. “Rico.” She looked toward the door. Her eyes glinted with humor. He followed her gaze. “Not in front of the kids,” she warned him with laughter in her voice. Next to the open door, politely sitting in the doorway were his dogs. They couldn’t seem to fathom what the humans were doing now. His eyes met Mariah's with a silent question. “I have no idea how long they've been sitting there,” she answered him, reading his mind. “Ay yi yi. I thought I shut that door.” He rolled off her. Pulling the blankets around them, he hid their naked bodies from his dogs. “How'd you guys get in here?” The dogs accepted his words as an invitation and flew at the bed like paparazzi after a hot story. They landed on top of Rico and Mariah in a flurry of flying tongues, wagging tails, and dancing legs. Mariah laughed hysterically as she attempted to protect her face from their rampant slobber. Rico joined in. What else was a guy to do?

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In the middle of the night, Rico woke to find Mariah curled up next to him. Her warm body curved around his, her soft skin like silk against his chest. Her hair lay across one of his arms like a silky sheet. One long leg rested across his hips and entwined with his leg. The delicate features of her sweet face made her look like an angel in the early morning light. She was an angel, his angel. She was his salvation from all the insanity in his life. Tasha lay curled up on the pillow next to her face. Bo snored at the foot of the bed. She'd even charmed his dogs. He wanted to wake up every morning just like this. He needed this woman in his life, but on his terms. That was the crux of the problem. To convince her to stay would take every ounce of charm and charisma he possessed. He wondered if what he was willing to give her would be enough. There were certain things that weren’t negotiable, like love. Love left a guy too vulnerable, gave the woman too much control. Love ripped your heart out when it ended. He’d never be anyone’s fool again, never allow a woman close enough to betray his trust. Yet, he wouldn’t be his father’s son. His kids wouldn’t have a more stepmothers than he had platinum CDs. A stable relationship based on mutual respect, friendship, and hot sex suited his needs. Relationships based on emotions never lasted. Love was crap, overrated, over-promised, and under-delivered. There was no room for it in his life. The trick would be to convince a woman like Mariah that his way made more sense. Rico crawled out of bed and pulled on a pair on drawstring pants. He lit a cigarette and stood on the balcony. City lights twinkled in the distance, rimming the ocean. Further out, a freighter began its journey out to sea. He leaned on the railing and wondered how she'd accept his proposal. He’d messed with her heart once already. Unfortunately, he couldn’t give her the one thing that would guarantee she’d stay. He didn't hear her walk up behind him until he felt her arms around his waist. She leaned into him. He took her hands and placed them inside his low-hanging waistband. She massaged his ridged stomach muscles with her fingertips. Taking a drag on his cigarette, Rico savored her closeness.

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They were silent for a long time. Eventually, she shifted to stand beside him. He placed an arm around her waist, pulling her against his side. She nestled her body close to his. He felt her eyes searching his face for answers. Finally, he looked down at her, a smile crossing his features. “What are you thinking?” “Tell me everything. I need to know the truth.” She squeezed his arm, giving him unspoken support. He knew she referred to the scandal. He hated talking about it. In fact, he’d rather have a root canal, yet she needed to know. All of it. He didn’t know where to start, so he started at the beginning. Once he got going, the words tumbled out like a CD on fast forward. “The girl was the daughter of one of Ed's girlfriends. I wasn't staying in the room that night. I'd actually passed out in my rental car in the hotel parking lot after a long night of partying. She lifted my keys and used my room. The girl ran with a rough crowd, and invited several of her druggie friends to a party. She took too many different drugs and overdosed. Her friends didn't call for help. They let her die. They panicked and tried to cover up their part in all this. They left drugs on the scene to implicate me, which wouldn't have been stretch since I had my own issues with drugs, but not the stuff they were doing. Ramon came to my room in the morning and let himself in with the extra key. He found her there and called my cell phone. I staggered into the room and assumed the worst—that this underage kid had been with Ramon.” “So you covered for him?” “I did, and the little ass hung me with the press. The mother sued us, and we settled out of court. It just about broke us. As far as a criminal case, I was exonerated and charges were dropped when a security guard finally came forward and stated that I'd been passed out in my car all night long. He'd kept an eye on me during his rounds of the parking lot.” “You never defended yourself. Never said anything.” “I figured I could ride out the storm better than Ramon and never imagined it would become such a media circus. I was stupid. Then Ramon, the lying ass, did that interview where he claimed he'd had his suspicions about my relationship with this girl. He revealed all the sordid details on my drug abuse.” “Why’d he do that to you?”

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“You’d have to ask him.” Rico tensed, hating how much Ramon’s betrayal still hurt, even after all this time. “It was pretty devastating, especially with all the other shit happening to me at the same time. I was like a ship without sails tossed in a stormy sea for a couple years. I buried myself in the import business. People I’d considered good friends deserted me. Carmen left me. My singing career was over. Which wasn’t so bad, since the performing side of the business isn’t my strong suit. Later, one of the kids that had been at the party contacted me. It was then that I realized that Ramon hadn't been involved either. You know the rest of the story.” “Oh, Rico, I’m so sorry. You’d do anything for your family. That’s an admirable trait.” She leaned into him, hugging him to her side. “There was a silver lining. I went to rehab, quit the drugs. I've been clean ever since. I guess that was my rock bottom.” For a long moment, they stood in silence. He took comfort in her closeness. Her unconditional faith warmed his soul. She ironed out all the wrinkles in his life, making his life smoother. “Why did you do all this?” It was the obvious question. The one she hadn't asked all night. “Why did you go to all this trouble to get me here?” He sighed and wondered how he would put it all into words. “It's a long story....” “I'm listening.” “Let it wait for now.” He didn’t want to ruin the magic of the night. Besides, he needed her again. **** Rico left Mariah in the master bedroom after breakfast the following morning. He excused himself to take care of a few things. The first of which involved calling Ramon. As soon as his brother answered, Rico lit into him. “I’m warning you, Ramon....” “Hey, Rico, nice to hear from you too. Great party last night wasn’t it? That little number of yours is one sexy morsel. I’d like to have her for myself.” “Leave Mariah alone,” Rico growled. “She doesn’t understand guys like you. She’s too naïve and trusting.”

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“Guys like me? What about guys like you?” Ramon’s voice crackled with animosity. “You just want to get in her pants.” “Like you haven’t already done that? What the fuck are you talking about, Rico? If Mariah and I want to be friends, it’s none of your damn business. I’ll do as I please. I don’t need your permission and neither does she. You’re the one she should watch out for. You’ve already broken her heart once.” “My relationship with Mariah is none of your business. Just stay away from her. That little dig about meeting her for lunch, it isn’t going to happen, so don’t waste your time calling her.” “I’ll call anyone I please to call, big brother. Thanks for being concerned for my well-being.” Ramon’s voice dripped acid. “I’m serious, Ramon.” Rico’s jaw tightened at the sound of Ramon’s taunting laughter. “If you screw up, I’m going to be waiting in the wings. Remember that.” Rico smashed the End button with his thumb and tossed the phone on the coffee table. His phone call had backfired. Ramon always wanted everything Rico had and more. Mulling that over in his mind, Rico didn’t hear his father enter the house until he was standing a few feet from him. Eduardo glanced around the breakfast area. Rico knew what he was thinking but kept quiet. Let the old man drag it out of him. “Where's Mariah?” Eduardo’s brows furrowed with worry. Rico started laughing in spite of his irritation with Ramon. “She's in my closet.” “In your closet?” Eduardo stared blankly at his son. “Going through my clothes like a kid at Christmas. She's taking out things she wants me to wear. You should see the stack of clothes. It’d take me a year to wear them. I guess I’ll have to keep her here that long.” “She's obsessed,” Eduardo observed, visibly relieved. “She is when it comes to clothes.” Rico shrugged in resignation. “I hear Al and Leo are taking a month's vacation with the money she spent on clothes at Al's boutique.” “You mean I spent. I should do an intervention and get her into Fashionholics Anonymous.”

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“You might want to, son, if you're really going to try to convince her to stay. The earlier the better.” “She can spend her own money on clothes. I don't care. I'll pay the other expenses.” His father lifted an eyebrow. “Oh, really? Does that mean she is moving in?” “It's a possibility. I’m working on it. I think she might be receptive.” “Do what it takes. It’s about time I had grandchildren.” **** The next morning Mariah followed her nose to the kitchen. Rico whistled happily to himself as he prepared breakfast. “Morning, bella.” He greeted her then swept her into his arms for a searing kiss. It was too early in the morning for something that powerful. She hadn’t even had her first cup of coffee. She gripped his shoulders so her knees didn’t buckle. “Have a seat, Rye. There’s coffee on the table.” “Thank you. A man that cooks is a man after my own heart.” “I can imagine. I’ve tasted your cooking.” “You said you liked it.” “I lied.” “I am pretty pathetic in the cooking department.” “I’ll let you slide on that one. You make up for it in other ways.” “Don’t you have people that do that for you?” “Cooking? Uh, yeah, I gave her the day off.” Mariah poured a cup of coffee and watched Rico as he made his way around the kitchen. Seeing him in a domestic setting did strange things to her heart. His faded jeans molded to his nice little rear, and his tight white tshirt clung to his muscles. His dark hair was still damp from a recent shower. He’d even shaved this morning. Now there was a man ready for action. Taking a sip of her coffee, she tried to detour her X-rated mind to a Grated subject. Breakfast did smell good. In response, her stomach rumbled like a bowling alley on league night. To her horror, Rico heard it and laughed. She winced. “I guess I’m hungry.”

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“Baby, I’m sure you are, but let’s eat breakfast first. Then I have a surprise for you.” “You have a surprise for me?” Now he was talking. He lounged against the black marble counter in his white and black kitchen and studied her over the rim of his orange juice glass. “Yes, I do.” His smile was calculating as he looked her up and down. “You call that a surprise?” “You sure know how to damage a male ego.” She threw a piece of toast at him, but he ducked. “There's nothing wrong with your ego or anything else for that matter.” She studied him suspiciously. “About that surprise....” “Rye, I'm full of surprises, and have I got a deal for you.” “That's what I'm afraid of.” Mariah reached for his hand and entwined hers within his large one. His serious expression sobered her. “That’s why I’m here isn’t it? This deal of yours?” Rico gazed into her eyes. Finally, he shook his head as if to clear it. “Well, I need to find a way recoup some of my losses on that shopping spree you had at Alvaro's. Let’s eat breakfast outside then we’ll talk.” She followed him to the patio overlooking his lawn and gardens. The table was set for two with white plates, black napkins, and sparkling silverware. Mariah sat in the seat he indicated. Rico placed two plates heaping with food on the table then settled into the chair next to her. Mariah ate in silence for a while as her mind turned over with the possibilities. This surprise had to be the reason he’d gone to such elaborate lengths to see her again. Was it going to be the kind of surprise she’d appreciate? Or dread? Finally she couldn’t stand it any longer. “Rico, why am I here? After all these months, you never called, wrote, emailed, nothing. Why now?” He swallowed a mouthful of food, placed his fork on his plate, and looked up at her. His guarded expression didn’t reveal his thoughts and didn’t give her a warm, fuzzy feeling either. “I wanted to see you again. Simple as that.” “Why?” She deserved a better answer. “I was horny?” He grinned at her. Mariah sat back and folded her arms across her chest. “I don’t buy that. There has to be any number of women ready to warm your bed. You didn’t have to go to the expense of dragging me down here. And I am expensive.”

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“I missed you.” “Okay.” Her eyes narrowed. “Why didn’t you call me like a normal man would have? Why the elaborate ruse?” “I’m not a normal man?” He offered with a disarming grin. “If I’d simply asked you to escort me, would you have said yes?” “No, I wouldn’t have.” “Well, then you just answered your own question.” She studied his handsome face. The man hid something behind his glib answers. “Please, be honest with me. Why now? Why me?” She sat back in her chair, gazing at clear blue water in the pool instead of his disturbing eyes. “I’m lonely. I need more. All my life, my work came first at the expense of everything else. Where did that sacrifice get me? Four years ago I lost everything I’d worked so hard for. I lost my life’s passion, my music. I lost the very essence of who I thought I was. Do you have any idea how that feels? My life went downhill from there. When Ed approached me to go into business with him—my money or what was left of it, of course, his sales skills—I did it against my better judgement. In some ways, I guess it was good. I’ve spent four years keeping him honest, out of the poorhouse or prison, and putting out his fires. He kept me occupied.” Rico searched her eyes, and she looked away before he read her thoughts. “You taught me to appreciate the little things again. Nature, a smile, the sounds of birds, stuff like that. Am I making any sense?” “A little.” “You made me see my worth as a person, not as a celebrity or as an image created by my management. When I was with you, you made me feel good inside, like a worthy person. With you I was me, not the person everyone else expected me to be.” Mariah’s eyes filled with tears. His heartfelt confession touched her deep down inside. Rico swallowed and cleared his throat then continued. “I’m adjusting my priorities. I...I held....” For a moment, Mariah thought he was going to cry. “When I held Carmen and Max’s baby for the first time, it hit me. This is what it’s all about. This is what’s missing. I want a life, Rye, and a family. I want simple, everyday things. I want to wake up next to the same woman

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every morning. I want to watch my children grow up. I want to go to soccer games and PTA meetings. I want a normal life.” “What are you saying?” Her heart caught in her throat. Was he about to profess his love to her? Was that his surprise? She forced her lungs to take in air. He was going to make her dreams come true and end her loneliness forever. He loved her. She knew it. She just knew it. She licked her lips with anticipation and tried not to look too anxious. She’d accept his declaration graciously and pledge her love to him. Together they could do anything. “Mariah, my life has been such a mess for so long. When I’m with you, I forget about the bad things.” He stopped for a moment as if to compose his thoughts. Mariah squeezed his hand, smiling up at him with devotion. However long it took for him to articulate his feelings, she’d wait. “For four years I worked in a job I didn’t like and ran interference for my dad. Six months ago Ed bought Insignia with my money. I think he thought it would fill the empty spot inside me. I love running that business, but it isn’t enough. I’ve been writing songs again. I always thought if I had my music back, all would be right with my world. That didn’t do it either. In fact, all I seem to be able to write are sad songs, which I guess is better than nothing. When I held that baby in my arms, I saw my future. I need something for me. I need you. You need me.” “I do?” “Of course, you do. You love me. We’re a great team.” “A great team? Is that it?” When would he profess his love? Patience, she needed patience. Maybe he wanted to draw the moment out a little longer. Stuff like that might be hard for a guy like him. “Look, Rye, I have to be honest with you. You aren’t going to like this.” She tensed. “Promise me you’ll give yourself some time to think about this and consider my offer. “Offer? You make this sound like some kind of business deal.” The word “offer” didn’t belong in a pronouncement of love. “Well, it is. In a way.” Rico refused to meet her eyes. “Please, just hear me out.” “Okay.” Something went dead inside her. The cold fingers of fear tightened around her throat. Just say you love me, Rico. Make the pain of the last six months worth it.

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“I know you need money, or you’ll lose that farm.” “What? Who told you that?” She bristled. Someone was in deep, deep trouble. When she found out who spilled it, she’d.... “Look, it doesn’t matter how I found out. I’ll find a way to pay all your debts, including the farm. Things are looking up financially for me. In a few years, we’ll never have to worry about money again.” “I don’t need your money.” Her throat tightened as if someone was strangling the life out of her. Maybe they were “I think you do. I know about your shopping addiction, your debts, your loss of income after your move to the San Juans, your parents leaving their money to charities.” “I didn’t want their money, and I don’t want yours. I can take care of myself.” “Look, you promised you’d hear me out. Just be quiet. Let me explain.” Rico ran his fingers through his hair and rubbed his eyes. Mariah took a deep breath in an attempt to summon some kind of inner calm. It didn’t work. Confused and hurt, she stared at him. “Rye, I know what I’m missing in my life. I’m on the verge of making some big changes. I want to write more songs and make Insignia one of the best small recording companies in the country. I don’t care if I ever sing publicly again, but I want my songs to be sung to the world.” “I’m not sure where I fit in here.” “I want a companion, a lover, a friend.” “Companion?” The word caught in her throat like bad medicine. “And someday soon, I hope, I...I...want to have children.” He spoke quickly, stumbling over the words in his rush to get them out of his mouth. “Children?” Mariah put her hands over her mouth in horror. Little ones? Rugrats? Crying all night long? Dirty diapers? Drool on her Christian Dior silk blouse? Babies? “You don’t expect me to be the mother?” He grinned engagingly. “Yeah, you’d be a great mother.” “You’re nuts! I’d make a lousy mother. I’m a princess. Remember? I like my clothes, my comforts, my life. Can you imagine how comfortable I’d be riding a horse or dancing at eight-months pregnant? Do you realize how hard I work NOT to be fat?” Rico sighed in exasperation. “Look, Rye, it’s a simple deal. Move in with me. You’ll never have another financial worry in your life. We both

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win. Look, it may not be for love, but we enjoy each other’s company. The sex is incredible. You're my best choice.” Not for love? The words tore through her heart like a dull knife through a tomato and leaving as big of a mess. “The best choice? In other words, I’m not Carmen.” She didn’t know whether to laugh, cry, or rage at him and throw things. Raging and throwing sounded like the most personally satisfying plan. The best choice? How about the best thing that ever happened to him? She’d never ask for another Armani dress if he’d just say those words to her. “Look, I didn’t mean it that way. It came out wrong. Let’s keep Carmen out of this. She’ll always hold a special place in my heart. That doesn’t mean we can’t do well together. In fact, better than most couples. After all, we’re going into this with our eyes open. Not blinded by some overrated, overused emotion like love. I’m talking about something long-term here. I don’t want my children to be raised by a string of stepmothers. I want them to have parents that stay together and raise them together.” He paused as if to emphasize his next words. “Besides, I’m very fond of you.” “Fond of me? You’re FOND of me?” His words grated on her like fingernails on a chalkboard. This couldn’t be happening to her. “Well, yeah. Real fond.” He watched her with a wary expression, as if he expected her to implode in front of his eyes. She seriously considered it. “You want me to have your children, but not your love? What about marriage? Is that part of this offer?” Mariah’s head reeled. She hadn’t seen this coming at all. The romantic side of her expected him to pledge his undying love, to tell her he couldn’t live without her. Instead, he picked her because he had something she needed badly enough she might agree to his crazy plan. Did he really think she was that pathetic? God, maybe she was. “Uh, marriage?” He stumbled over the word as if it was a forbidden obscenity. “I knew this would come up.” He rose to his feet and crossed to her side of the table. He held out his hand to her. “Let’s take a little walk in the garden.” Reluctantly, she took his hand. A weary sadness invaded her soul, draining out the anger, leaving her barren and empty. She should be calling a cab and walking out his door. The nerve of him to suggest such an outrageous proposition. She didn’t even like kids. She should give him a piece of her mind. Instead, she held his hand and walked beside him along

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the winding path. Stupid, silly, lovesick woman. She couldn't cave into his wishes. She wasn't that desperate to have him that she’d take him any way she could get him. Then the clever devil switched tactics on her. He stopped, pulled her into his arms and kissed her thoroughly. She kissed him back, welcoming his lips on hers. Her sanity rolled out to sea with the surf. When he finally dragged his mouth away, he took her common sense with it. It wouldn't hurt to consider his offer. He’d take care of her forever. She’d never need another thing. But love. What about love? Well, women married everyday for less than he offered her. She could make him love her in time. “Would this be so bad, baby? To have this and more everyday? To feel my naked body moving against yours in the middle of the night whenever we desired it?” He stroked her hair and nibbled her neck, running his hands down her back and squeezing her butt. No, it wouldn’t be bad, in fact, it would be pure heaven. Except for one thing. He put his hand on either side of her face and looked deeply into her eyes. “I’ll take you to Paris, Milan, the big fashion shows. I’ll buy you all the designer clothes you can imagine.” “I have a good imagination.” “We’ll hire the best nannies.” “My children won’t be raised by a nanny.” “Ah ha!” he declared triumphantly, “so you’re considering it.” “I never said that. It’s crazy. I mean really crazy.” “That camp on your island property?” “Yes?” She eyed him warily. He was bringing out the big guns, she could tell by the crafty shine in his eyes. “I’ll make sure they have everything. They’ll never have to worry about losing their lease again. And,” he announced with a twinkle in his eye, “I’ll take you to Germany and buy you a stable full of dressage horses.” Oh, that was a clever move. Get her where she was most vulnerable. Pray on her sense of decency and obligation then throw in horses, her other expensive bad habit. “You’re really serious about this, aren’t you?”

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“Sí, deadly serious. I know you don’t have much time. I don’t either. It’ll take awhile to convert some of my assets to come up with the required cash.” “I...I need to think about this.” With a start, she realized how cleverly he’d skirted her marriage question. Perhaps, marriage wasn’t part of his deal. “Certainly. I understand.” “Can we just forget about it until I’m ready to leave? I just want to enjoy the few days we have left.” He was right about one thing, what he proposed to her was a surprise. A big fat one.

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Chapter 20 The Changes Mariah stirred in Rico’s arms and rubbed her cheek on his chest. Tomorrow morning she flew home, yet nothing had been settled. She knew he was awake, but she didn't want to talk to him just yet. One of his large hands absently rubbed her back. The other rested on her hip. Rico shifted slightly. Mariah kept her eyes squeezed shut. Her guilt overrode the good feelings. She’d snuck out to lunch with Ramon yesterday. Being deceptive didn’t come easily to her. Not only had she gone against Rico’s wishes, but she’d done it behind his back. Rico needed to learn to keep his jealousy under wraps. Ramon was a friend, nothing more. She’d defend her right to pick her own friends. Of course, sneaking around wasn’t going to help matters any. Yet, Rico didn’t have a claim on her, but that didn’t make her feel any better. Ramon flattered her outrageously and entertained her with his charm and wit. He made her feel good about herself. It was harmless, at least to her. Unfortunately, she didn’t think Rico would see it that way. Mariah lifted her head to gaze at him. His eyes were open and focused on her. She wondered how long he’d been lying there in silence, just watching her. He smiled one of his seductive, lopsided smiles. She breathed a heavy sigh of shamed relief. He didn't know about Ramon. “Do you know what is one of the sexiest things in the world, Mariah?” Rico mused as he combed his fingers through her hair. “What?” His chest hair tickled her cheek. She ran her hands down his side and traced each rib. “The feel of your hair draped across my chest. It’s like silk.” “Really? Wouldn’t you prefer the feel of my hair somewhere else?” Rico laughed. “Oh, baby. Yeah, I love that, too. I’ve corrupted you.” He seemed pleased with himself.

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“Don't you want me to be corrupted?” She turned her head slightly so her chin rested on his chest and she could see his eyes. “Oh, yeah, but only with me.” A slow smile crossed his handsome features. He pulled her closer and held her to him, stroking her back and hips with his fingers. He was silent for a long time. She sensed something was on his mind, but he didn't know how to say it. “What are you thinking?” she finally asked when she couldn't stand the silence anymore. “About the future. Where I want my life to go from here.” “That's pretty heavy stuff for the middle of the night.” Mariah attempted to lighten his mood. She felt his chest vibrate as he chuckled in response. “You don't wonder about your future?” “I'm afraid to look beyond today, Rico.” “Did I do that to you, Mariah?” he asked with a twinge of guilt in his voice. “Not just you. It seems like everyone I've ever cared about has left me.” Mariah buried her face in his chest. She choked and fought back the tears. He’d struck a nerve and uncovered her greatest insecurity. “I don't plan on going anywhere, Rye. I'm right where I want to be. Have you given any more consideration to my offer?” “I don’t know what to say.” She avoided Rico’s eyes. She didn’t want him to see her uncertainty. “Mariah, I look forward to waking up with you beside me. It’s strange how quickly you can get used to something like that. When I reach for you in the middle of the night, I want to find you here.” “Well, Rico, I’m sure you can find a woman that would be glad to fix that for you.” “What about you, Mariah? Would you be glad to fix that for me?” Even though his voice was teasing, she could hear the serious undertones to it. Mariah felt his eyes on her. “Rico, I....” She didn’t know how to answer him. Her teary eyes were drawn to his. “Oh, hell, Mariah. Sometimes I just don’t understand women. I thought you'd want to hear that,” he grumbled. He held her tighter. “I can’t bear to see you cry. Come on, sweetheart, it’s all going to be okay. I want you, Mariah. I want you bad. Man, I want to make love to you all night until I’m so exhausted, I can’t move.”

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“I want you, too, Rico. I want you so much, it scares me.” She hated to make that admission, but she owed him her honesty, especially considering her deception concerning Ramon. Rico buried his face in her hair, a low moan coming from his throat. “I not only want you, Mariah—I need you. It's been a long time since I've needed a woman like I need you. It really irritated me when you danced with Ramon, and I haven't been jealous of another guy in a long time.” Now was the time, the perfect lead-in to admit to her sins. “Rico, about Ramon....” “No, Mariah, I don't want to hear about Ramon. You’re not to go near my brother. I don't trust him where you're concerned.” His body tensed and his expression became unyielding and stubborn, leaving no room for discussion. “Do you trust me?” Mariah asked in a small voice. “Yes, I trust you.” Tunneling his hand under her hair, he kissed her forehead. “Just do me this one favor, Mariah. It’s all I ask. Stay away from him.” His voice was tight, as if he was trying not to be angry. Mariah said nothing. She felt sick to her stomach. Her guilty conscience weighed on her like a 500-pound lead ball. The next time Ramon called she’d tell him not to call again. The silence fell between them, leaving more questions unanswered than answered. They had to talk about his proposal, yet neither of them was in the mood to broach the subject. He pulled his head back to regard her with undisguised desire. “What are you doing to me, Mariah?” “The same thing you’re doing to me. I've done things with you I've never even thought about doing. I can’t stop myself. I don’t want to stop. I want to feel your skin against mine, the heat of your muscular body, and your gentle strength. I want to fall asleep in your arms. I don’t want to be lonely anymore either.” She touched his face gently, tracing a finger along the strong, clean, chiseled lines. Rico caught her hand in his and kissed her palm. “That’s not such a bad thing, is it? I mean I’m a nice guy. I’m responsible, I try to treat people how I want to be treated, I make a good living. I give back a little of what I’ve been lucky enough to get. I'm a hard worker.” “I know. You are a wonderful man.”

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“I want a family, babies, a lover and a friend. I’ll give you everything, Mariah. Everything you’ve ever dreamed of.” But love, Rico. What about love? She forced herself to smile, attempting to lighten the serious mood and play along for now. “I suppose I could be convinced to strike a deal with you—if you’re good enough.” “Or if I’m bad enough?” Rico's mouth turned up in a cocky grin. “Really? How bad can you be?” She rubbed against him. “As bad as you want me to be.” He brushed his lips against Mariah’s. “You surprise me every time I’m with you. You drive me crazy. You beat my drums, strum my strings, blow my horn. I can’t get enough of you, woman, especially the horn blowing part. Just look at me in that special way you have, and I’d do anything for you.” “Blow your horn?” “Well, yeah. I’m a musician. I appreciate a woman who knows how to play a fine-tuned instrument.” “Like this?” Her hand slid down between them and wrapped around his hard cock. She stroked him, just the way he liked it. Rico groaned. “Yeah, maestro, just like that. We make beautiful music together.” “Rock-n-Roll?” “Definitely. I’ll rock, and you roll.” He rolled her onto her back and bent his head down. She lost herself in the taste of his lips. Her legs parted, allowing him to settle between them. Her fingers tightened around his erection, and she massaged the tip with her thumb. His body shuddered. She reveled in her ability to render him senseless. “You are a shameless, brazen female, Mariah Baker. What would your mama have said?” “She would have told me to make that man forget that there are any other women on earth.” “Oh, hell, Rye, I already have.” Rico silenced her with a deep, wet kiss. Except one. Did he imagine Carmen when he was with her? She kissed him back with a desperation born of fear, fear that they couldn’t hold it together given the restrictions he’d put on his heart. ****

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Typical man, Rico fell asleep as soon as they climaxed. Mariah stared at the ceiling for hours, sad and confused. Unable to stand it any longer, she gave Rico’s bare shoulder a nudge. “Rico, I’m leaving. We need to talk.” Rico groaned and buried his face in the pillow. “What time is it?” “About three am.” She got out of bed and put on a robe. “Don’t you want to talk?” “Not really.” “Then you want me to leave here with all this hanging between us?” “No, I don’t.” Rico sat up and ran his fingers through his short hair. With a resigned sigh, he looked around for a pair of jeans and pulled them on. Mariah waited for him on the balcony. He stumbled out the door and leaned against the railing. Mariah watched him light a cigarette but said nothing. She knew what her answer had to be. She couldn’t use Rico for money, not even for the farm. And she couldn't live with a man who didn't love her, let alone have his children. Rico avoided her eyes and stared down into the valley. “Rico, I think you know my answer.” He inhaled deeply on his cigarette then let it out. “I’d like to hear it from you.” “I can’t do this.” “Rye, we could have a good life together.” Mariah shrugged. Her throat closed up and unshed tears blurred her vision. The man didn’t seem to get it. “That’s not enough for me. Maybe for you, but not for me. I can’t do it.” If she agreed to his terms, he would always wonder if she was with him for his money. She loved him too much to allow him to think that, even if it cost her Rose Hill. She couldn’t put a price on her pride and integrity. Rico seemed exasperated. “Look, Rye. I’ll marry you. If that’s what it takes.” “Don’t sound so thrilled about it.” His reluctant attitude insulted her. “Well, it’s not my idea. Marriage is a farce, a sham. It’s an institution I want no part of, but if it’s the only thing that’ll change your mind, I’m willing to go through with it.”

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“Rico, that is the most romantic proposal a woman could ever imagine.” Mariah’s voice dripped sarcasm. She didn’t want to fight with him, yet she felt a big one coming on. He shrugged indifferently and looked away. “You’ll get what you want. Why do you care how you get it?” “I’m not getting what I want. You don’t understand.” “Sure, I understand a lot. What’s the deal, Rye? Are you holding out for more? Or maybe someone with a bigger bankroll?” Guilt crossed Mariah’s face as she remembered her secret lunch with Ramon. Rico must have noticed her expression because his eyes narrowed in suspicion. “That’s it, isn’t it? Who is it? Ramon? Or someone I’ve never met?” “Don’t be ridiculous. It’s you. No one else. Please, Rico, I have to take care of my debts on my own if I’m ever going to have any self-respect. As for as marriage, I’ll never marry for any reason other than love.” Mariah wiped the tears from her eyes. Rico stood a few feet from her, not making a move to touch her. His expression reflected as much rigidity as his stance. “Then move in with me. Let’s take it one day at a time.” “No, I can't.” **** “You let her go?” Angel gaped at him. “How the hell did you manage to screw this one up, Rico?” “I didn’t screw it up. She wasn’t interested in the arrangement.” “Well, no wonder if you put like that. Don’t you know anything about women?” “I told her that we each had something the other needed. We could both benefit from this partnership.” “Partnership? Are you nuts? You told her it was a partnership?” He nodded. Mariah had been gone one week, ten hours, and forty seven minutes, but he wasn't counting. The truth be told, he wanted her back under any terms. He’d made a grave error in judgment. He shouldn’t have been so honest with her. If only he’d eased her into his plan a little at a time.

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“Rico!” Angel dropped him back to earth. She flipped open her cell phone and shoved it in his face. “Call her right now. Tell her you’re sorry. You love her, and you want to make a life and a family with her.” “I can’t tell her I love her. It would be a lie.” “The only lie is the one you keep telling yourself. You love that woman. Anyone with eyes could see it in the way you look at her. Go get her. Now. Tell her you’re sorry you’re such an inept fool when it comes to explaining things.” “Stuff it, Angel. She'll be back. I know it.” “Rico, you are so stupid. She's not coming back, not under those stipulations.” He ignored his sister and smoothly changed the subject. “I wrote a couple songs I want Ramon to sing on his next CD.” “Well, that’s the smartest thing you’ve said in the last several minutes.” “Oh, so at least you approve of that?” “Of course, I do. It’s time you patched things up with Ramon.” “I wouldn’t go that far. This is purely business. Ramon’s hot right now.” “Fine, whatever. It’s a start. Have you talked to Mariah since she left?” His sister had a one-track mind. “No.” Something cracked inside him causing a pain like none he'd ever felt in his life. **** She couldn't prolong the inevitable. Any minute Warren would arrive. Rose Hill would no longer be hers. The camp would be closed. This beautiful place would be transformed into a world-class resort, which only the wealthy could afford. Her tears fell like a winter rainstorm for several minutes. Blinded by them, she staggered to the pasture, found Sueño, and threw her arms around him. He stood quietly, nuzzling her shoulder and back as if to say, “I’m sorry, too, Mariah, but we’ll get through it. We’ve been through worse together.” “I’m sorry, Mom, Dad, Aunt Rose, I’ve let you all down. I’m so sorry,” she said aloud. The wind whispered in the trees. She hoped it was them, forgiving her.

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She wanted to call Rico but couldn't. She was alone, so very alone. This mess belonged to her. She’d tried to deal with it and failed. Now she’d face the consequences by herself. She made one of the toughest phone calls she ever made to the director of the camp. They’d be losing their lease at the beginning of next year. She hooked up her horse trailer to her truck. She needed to load Sueño and be gone before Warren took possession. The thought of facing him made her queasy. She led Sueño to the trailer as Warren and his entrourage paraded into her driveway. Clouds blocked out the sun, and it started drizzling, bathing the landscape in dreary shades of gray like an old black and white photograph. Two identical black Mercedes with tinted windows parked by the barn. Behind them, the county sheriff arrived. Three large men dressed completely in black and looking like they belonged in a mafia movie unfolded their large bodies from the first car. The second car contained Warren, his nasty mother, and spoiled sister. Both women hated her. She’d never been good enough for their son. They reeked of old Seattle money and snobby superiority. If their noses got any higher in the air, they’d need oxygen. They’d gotten perverse pleasure out of making her life pure hell when she’d been engaged to Warren. The Sheriff came forward, fidgeting and refusing to meet her eyes. “I’m sorry, Mariah.” He’d known her family for years. This couldn’t be easy for him. He shuffled his feet and stared at the ground, obviously hating the requirements of his job. “Sheriff, it isn’t necessary for you to be here. I’m not going to give them any trouble.” “That doesn’t mean they won’t give you any trouble,” he pointed out quietly for only her ears to hear. “Hey, old man,” Warren spoke up. “Don’t be showing any preferential treatment.” The Sheriff glanced apologetically at Mariah then moved out of the way as Warren stepped forward flanked by his gang of musclemen. This show of strength was overkill. Warren had planned this entire ordeal to humiliate her. She squared her shoulders, stood up straighter, and glared at him with defiance. He might take her farm, but he’d never take her pride.

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Warren glanced around and determined that she was alone. “Mariah, where’s your Latin lover?” He smirked at her as he reached out to touch her arm. She jerked her arm back, and he laughed at her reaction. “Keep Rico out of this.” “I was hoping you'd be gone, but I do appreciate the opportunity for one last goodbye.” Warren’s mother stepped forward, ready to kick Mariah while she was down. The old crow with her died black hair regarded Mariah with contempt. “I hope you’ve packed everything you want to keep. We’d like you off this property as soon as possible.” She gestured dramatically with her hands at the expanse of land before her and scared Sueño. He shied backwards taking Mariah with him and giving her some needed space. Warren and accomplices leaped in different directions, afraid of being stomped on by some out-of-control horse. Mariah almost smiled. Leave it to Sueño to find a subtle way to put them in their place. “You stupid little twit, get that dangerous animal away from us.” Jill, the sister, itching to join the roast Mariah party, edged forward, braver than her mother or brother. Mariah remembered Jill showing horses in their younger years. She’d treated them like machines, not caring about them as animals. “Did Warren tell you that I’m taking up dressage, Maria?” “Mariah. No, but I pity any horse you ride. Why don’t you stick to the merry-go-round.” Warren smirked. Something was up his silk Nordstrom sleeve. She moved closer to Sueño, leaning against his shoulder for support. They had her outnumbered and outgunned. The mother-from-hell cackled. “I hope this horse learns to be more cooperative. Jill doesn’t have a lot of patience.” For a moment Mariah’s face went blank then she felt pure raw fury surge through her veins. “Did you leave your broom at home today, Naomi?” For a moment, she thought Naomi might slap her, but the witch nodded to her daughter, who reached for Sueño’s bridle. Mariah moved him out of her reach. “The horses aren’t part of this deal. I’ll load them up and be out of your way.” Warren circled her like a predator closing in on a wounded animal. “Mariah, didn’t you read the fine print on the loan agreement?”

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Mariah stared at him. Her stomach lurched. “No, I....” Warren held the document out to her, pointing at a particular paragraph in very fine print. “Aunt Rose wouldn’t have agreed to this. You tricked her.” “It’s not my fault she didn’t read the agreement carefully. The horses are mine. Everything that was on this farm when you inherited it is mine, all the antiques, the equipment, and the horses.” “Sueño is mine.” “That’s not what the registration papers say. I know. I checked.” Warren’s blue eyes twinkled with cruel glee. “Your aunt wasn’t much for paperwork, was she? She never signed the horse over to you.” “She didn’t need to. He’s mine.” “Well, honey, now he’s mine, and I’m giving him to my sister.” “You can’t.” She pleaded with him, hoping there might be some shred of decency in the man. “Warren, please. No, he's all I have left.” Warren threw back his head and laughed, an inhuman, cruel sound. She launched herself at Jill and struggled for the lead rope. Warren’s thugs grabbed her and yanked her away from the horse. Mariah fought against the two men. She stomped on a foot and kneed a groin. Somehow they managed to hold onto her. Sueño reared, upset at all the commotion. Jill smacked him across the nose with the lead rope, raising a big welt. Screaming, Mariah struggled helplessly as Warren’s sister released her nasty temper and hit Sueño several more times. Sueño stopped fighting. He stood still, shaking and snorting. He’d never been hit before and didn’t understand what was happening. “You bastard!” She spat at Warren. “You won’t get away with this.” “Hey, old man, either get her out of here or arrest her.” The Sheriff took her arm. “Let’s go, Mariah. There’s nothing you can do.” **** Mariah’s eyelids scraped across her eyes like sandpaper. She’d shed so many tears earlier that they’d run dry. The look in Sueño’s trusting brown eyes haunted her. Her stomach lurched and pitched like a seasick sailor’s, as she imagined his fate. Not to mention the fate of the camp and her farm.

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She should have known Warren wouldn't fight fair. No one could fight a devious man like Warren without help. It was like fighting the devil with a paper sword. Of all people, she should’ve known better. Mariah dialed a number on her cell. No one answered, and she didn’t leave a message. Unhooking her trailer, she left it in the Delgado’s driveway. A few hours later, she parked her truck in the parking garage at Sea-Tac airport.

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Chapter 21 The Hot Pink Chapel Mariah unlocked the back door of Rico’s house with the key that he’d given her. She disabled the security system, praying he hadn’t changed the code. The thing chirped happily, and she breathed a sigh of relief. Grabbing her bags, she hauled them inside and locked the door. The house was quiet and dark. Bo padded to the back door to greet her. He waited for her to pet him then disappeared into the darkness of the house to continue his interrupted sleep. She waited for her eyes to adjust to the darkness. Fear and desperation had driven her to catch a plane to LA without fully thinking about what she was doing. Now, those feelings gave way to insecurity and doubts about invading Rico’s privacy uninvited. She considered her options, but going back to the airport or to a lonely hotel room didn’t seem a viable choice. She needed him. She made her way upstairs to the master bedroom. For a minute she hesitated at the open door, afraid she might not find him alone. She peeked in the doorway. Moonlight poured through the open blinds. Relieved, she made out one figure on the bed and tiptoed closer. Rico was sprawled on his stomach with his head turned in her direction. He looked so young and vulnerable when he slept like that. She stood still, barely breathing, and allowed herself to watch him. Her heart filled with love for this kind, energetic, handsome, and stubborn man of hers. And he was hers, at least tonight. Mariah moved over to the opposite side of the bed. My side of the bed, she thought with a sense of possessiveness. She tenderly touched his dark hair with her fingers. A lock fell over his forehead. She smoothed it back. His bare shoulders peeked out from under

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the blankets. She wanted this man around her and inside her, driving away her demons. God help her, she loved him. There was no turning back now. Somehow, someway, she’d teach him to love her. He stirred slightly, but didn’t wake up. She couldn’t believe she was about to do something as bold as crawl uninvited in bed with him. Her fingers trembled as she shed her clothes. **** Rico was having this recurring erotic dream about Mariah. They were on a tropical island, all alone, naked in the wet sand under the stars. She was wild for him. An insatiable need to conquer her body and her soul drove him to possess every part of her. He was the only man who could ever satisfy her. The warm surf rolled gently over them in undulating waves that matched the pulsing rhythm of their two bodies as they joined together in passion and love. Definitely a wet dream in more ways than one. Rico moaned softly and rolled onto his side. He reached for Mariah. Only she filled the emptiness, the loneliness, the void inside him. Her side of the bed felt cold, barren. He remembered in the recesses of his partially awake mind that she wasn't with him. She’d left him. Turned down his untactful offer. Yet, he felt her presence. Sleepily, he opened his eyes. A slow lazy smile spread across his face as he focused on her standing over him. “Am I dreaming or is an angel standing over my bed?” Mariah smiled uncertainly. “You’re not dreaming, and I’m not an angel. At least not tonight. I’m just a woman who needs you.” Rico took in her naked body. The moonlight bathed her flawless skin in a soft glow that made her appear as if an inner light illuminated her. Her rich brown hair fell across her shoulders and down her back like a silken sheet. She was the most beautiful woman in the world with a body a man would die for. In fact, he probably had at least once or twice already. Rico caressed her body with his eyes and watched her shiver in anticipation. He pulled back the sheets. “Come in here and need me, bella.”

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His voice sounded husky to his ears. She slid underneath the covers and into the safety and warmth of his strong arms. Her bare legs entwined with his as she wrapped herself up in his body. “I'd rather have you, than an angel any day.” Mariah made a little sound of pleasure and snuggled closer. Rico sensed something wasn't right in the way that she clung to him so desperately. “To what do I owe the pleasure of your visit? Are you missing my me or my body?” He nuzzled her hair with his lips. “Both, but there's more to it than that. Warren....” She choked, unable to go on. “What? Did that bastard touch you? Did he hurt you?” Rico’s temper flared. He’d castrate the bastard and gain immense satisfaction by doing so. “Later. I don’t want to talk right now.” She was on the verge of tears, and he sensed her desperation. “Please, just hold me.” Mariah burrowed her head deeper into his shoulder. Rico molded her body to his. “I'm sorry. I know I invaded your privacy.” “Feel free to invade my privacy anytime you want. I'd rather sleep with you than sleep alone.” Mariah glanced up at him. “You would?” “Of course, I would. Rye, it was your idea to leave, not mine. I personally like you right where you are.” “You might live to regret those words,” she teased. “That'll be a cold day in....” His voice was muffled as he stuck his tongue in her ear. His strong hands stroked her body, touching her in all those sensitive places that only he knew. It’d been weeks, and he needed her now. Judging by the urgent way that she rubbed her sweet little body against his, she felt the same burning need. Their mouths melded together in blind passion as all those lonely nights were swept away like leaves in the wind. His tongue teased hers in their special erotic tango. The heat seared deeper and deeper until he couldn't take much more of her exquisite torture. Rico drew his mouth away from hers. He wound her long hair around his fist so that she couldn't move her head to follow his mouth, one of his favorite tricks. “No, not yet, Rye. Not until I get a promise from you.” Panting, he forced the words out of his mouth.

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“Anything.” She sounded desperate, right where he wanted her. Horny enough to agree to his terms but still clinging to a shred of sanity so that she’d uphold any promises she made. “Stay with me.” “You're not playing fair.” She pleaded for mercy. “No, I'm not. Promise me.” He nibbled on her neck, licking, sucking, nipping. She offered no resistance when he separated her slender legs. He stoked the fire at her core by slipping a long finger deep into her wet heat. Uncontrolled whimpers escaped from her lips. She was on the verge. He withdrew his finger and refused her pleas to keep going. “Move in. Share my home with me.” He used his voice to his advantage, carefully modulating his tone to be persuasive and insistent. He thumbed her clit, just once. She cried out, pleading with him to keep going. He didn’t. He was cheating, and he didn't care. All’s fair in love and war. Oh shit, not love, sex. “I....” she gulped. “I...I don’t know about the babies....” She gasped as he started using his talented fingers again. “Oh, God, please... I’d be a lousy mother.” She gasped and shuddered. He stopped. “Rico. Don't stop. I need you. To feel you. Oh, please!” Man, he loved it when she begged. “Don't you want this every night, amor? Don't you want to be with me? Come on, baby. Don't be stubborn.” His hands and his body drove her once again to the edge. He stopped. “Mariah?” “Yes, I’ll stay! I’ll stay! Just don’t stop.” “Promise?” “I promise. I do. Oh, God.” Using his special brand of expertise, he took her to heaven then let her float back down to earth. Her feet had barely touched the ground when he anchored her ankles on his shoulders and entered her in one swift possessive thrust. Together, they climbed back to the clouds. **** Later that morning, Mariah lay wrapped in Rico’s arms. He watched her sleeping, allowing himself a little smile. He wondered about the desperation that drove her to his bed in the middle of the night. His stomach clenched at

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the thought of Warren causing her grief. He’d strangle the man with his bare hands if he laid on a hand on her. He’d made a decision in the early morning hours. She’d keep her promise, and he’d make one that’d guarantee she’d stay at his side and in his bed. The loneliness he suffered without her would be banished forever. Maybe he couldn’t love her, but he’d make up for it in other ways. They’d have a good life together. She stirred and lazily rubbed his back. “Good morning.” She planted a kiss on his cheek. “Good morning. You’re staying.” “I said I’d stay.” She leaned across his chest. Supporting her body with her elbows, she gazed into his eyes. “I’m still not sure about the kid part. Rico, I’d look awfully fat and bloated with a baby.” He laughed. “Woman, I’d love to keep you barefoot and pregnant for the next several years.” Mariah shuddered at the thought, which made him laugh all the harder. Finally, he sobered and looked into her eyes. “What is it, Rye? What happened? You seem so sad.” “The farm is gone.” “Why didn’t you let me take care of it.” “I couldn’t. I couldn’t have you thinking that was the only reason I wanted to be with you.” “Baby, I’d never think that of you.” “Rico, there’s more.” He frowned, sensing her distress. “More?” “Yes, Warren took all the horses, too, even Sueño.” The tears flowed down her cheeks, and she clung to Rico as if he was her last hope for salvation. “Sueño? How could he get Sueño?” Rico stiffened, enraged by Warren’s cruelty. “That little prick. I’ll call my attorney right now. I’ll sue his ass.” “Rico, listen,” she begged then explained the details in between halting, heart wrenching sobs. “Oh, man. This can’t be true. We’ll buy him back. Whatever the cost.” “It's not the money. He wants the revenge. He wants to see me grovel. He wants to hurt me.”

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“Baby, I’m sorry. I’ll do everything I can. I’ve got friends in high places. I’ll do my best.” “I know you will, but you’re not a miracle worker. I don’t expect anything. I just needed to be in your arms, to feel you inside me. That helped more than anything.” “Tell you what. I’ll call Angel and you two can go on a shopping spree on me. Then we’re going to take a little trip somewhere tonight. Just give me the rest of the morning and afternoon to make some arrangements and talk to some people.” **** Mariah fell asleep as soon as the private jet took off from the Los Angeles airport. She didn’t wake until they taxied down the runway at their destination. Disoriented, her eyes darted around the cabin. “Rico, where are we?” “Vegas.” Mariah sat up to get a better view out the window. “Vegas? What are we doing in Vegas?” Rico smiled innocently. “Taking care of business.” “What kind of business?” “You’ll find out soon. Just be patient. You’ll like it.” “I’ll like what?” “Trust me.” “I’ve heard that before. Did you find out anything today about Rose Hill or Sueño? Do we have any kind of a chance?” “There’s always a chance, Rye. I’m going to do my best.” Mariah nodded. Maybe he wasn’t superman, but for now, she’d pretend he could pull it off. She’d do her Scarlett thing and worry about it tomorrow. A limo waited for them near the tarmac. Rico refused to answer her questions about where they were going or what they were doing. They stopped in front of a hot pink wedding chapel, and Mariah broke into laughter. “Let me guess? Ed's marrying Number fourteen or is it fifteen?” “Not Ed.” “Who?” “We are.” He didn’t meet her eyes, but the corner of his mouth twitched.

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“This is a joke, right?” Rico grinned at her then looked very serious. “No, bella, I would never joke about a thing like this.” Mariah frowned, her brow furrowing as she wondered what he really had planned. “Why are we here?” “We are going to get married.” Mariah looked again at the chapel, horrified. It was cheap and cheesy and hot pink. “Here? Now? In an interior designer's worst nightmare?” Rico took both her hands in his. “I know you, baby. I know your oldfashioned ethics. I know it bothers you to think that you’re living with me in sin. Even worse, you might get pregnant, have a baby, and not be married. Aren’t I right?” “Yes, but I didn’t expect this.” Besides, the pregnant and having a baby thing wasn’t in her future plans. “No way are you getting out of this now. We’re doing it before you change your mind.” In her rational mind, she would have never done it, but the man hit her when she was down. If she went through with this sham of a wedding, she'd never be alone again. Not only would she have Rico's companionship, but she'd have his entire large dysfunctional family as well. “How did you pick this place?” “I didn’t have a lot of time. Ed took care of the arrangements. I think he’s been married here once or twice before.” He took her hands in his. “Mariah, the place doesn’t matter. What matters is us. We could be in the middle of the freeway. It wouldn’t matter.” “I guess so.” She looked down at the wrinkled T-shirt that she’d been sleeping in during the flight, her faded blue jeans, and her scuffed shoes. She was going to have a few words with Ed. There had to be better wedding chapels in Vegas than this one. Before she expressed her doubts, another limo pulled up, stuffed with Rico’s family, Eva and Jamal, and even Ramon. Reluctantly, she took the hand Rico offered and stepped out of the limo to be mauled by friends and family. Everyone wanted to hug and kiss her. Except Ramon. He stood off to one side, a serious frown on his handsome face. Mariah’s eyes met his, and he scowled in disapproval. She jerked her eyes away before Rico noticed.

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Her and Ramon talked a couple times a week. They’d become good friends, a small fact that Rico would need and know and learn to deal with. Later. Ramon sidled up next to her. “Don’t do it, Mariah.” She smiled at him and attempted to ignore his words. “Rye, don’t. He’s going to break your heart.” Rico noticed Ramon’s attention and cast a withering look at his brother. “You ready, babe?” “Yes. Yes, I’m ready.” He squeezed her hand. “You won’t regret this, Rye. I’ll make you happy.” She smiled up at him. Sincerely wanting to believe him, she locked her doubts out of her mind. Rico led Mariah ahead of the group to the chartreuse double doors. The minister looked like a fat Elvis impersonator. He had a huge pot belly, a white polyester jumpsuit studded with rhinestones and unzipped to his navel, a gold medallion around his neck, greasy black (obviously died) hair, and a loud, obnoxious booming voice. He kissed Mariah’s hand way too long. She wiped it on her jeans when he was done. Then he slapped Rico on the back and almost knocked him over. A woman, who was the pianist and singer all rolled into one, made Mariah’s eyes pop right out of her head. She was as wide as she was tall. Her purple spandex top fell below her ample hips and a flowing rainbowcolored skirt. Her garish makeup displayed more colors than an artist’s palette. She must have applied it with a shovel. She chomped on her gum and blew bubbles. Ignoring Mariah, she launched herself at Rico, burying him in her rolls of fat. He extracted himself from her embrace as quickly as possible. Even so, his face was covered with her purplish red lipstick. Mariah held her hand over her mouth to suppress a giggle. The woman had a mustache, too. Someone shoved a paper under her nose to sign. Mariah looked up at the man holding the paper. She hadn’t noticed him before. “Mariah, this is my attorney, Jonathan Boone.” The man smiled smoothly, too smooth, but then given her experiences of late, Mariah wasn’t overly fond of attorneys. “Pleased to meet you,

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Mariah. We need you to sign some papers before we start. This is just a standard pre-nup.” He attempted to make it sound like it was nothing. Mariah stared at the papers in her hand. “I...I don’t understand.” She looked to Rico for assurance, but he seemed to be studying the gold trim on a picture frame. “Mariah, this just protects the assets Rico had before he met you. That’s all. There are provisions in here to take care of any children you two might have and to take care of you should you divorce. Rico has been very generous.” With a sinking heart and a shaking hand, Mariah signed the papers after scanning them. She didn’t care what they said. She trusted Rico even if he didn’t trust her. This entire process only served as a reminder that this ceremony didn't mean the same thing to him that it did to her. Rico smiled at her. “Amor, please, don’t take it personally.” How else was she supposed to take it? She managed a sad smile back at him. “Rye?” Eva tapped her on the shoulder. “I brought a nice dress for you to wear.” “Oh, thank you, Eva,” she said gratefully. She took the garment bag that Eva offered her. Together the two of them headed to the bathroom. The dress was perfect. The simple lines of the ivory silk draped across her shoulders and bared her back. The soft clingy skirt hugged her hips and fell below her knees. Eva wove some roses in her hair, while Mariah freshened her makeup. “Oh, Eva. Thank you for thinking this.” Mariah brushed a tear from her cheek. Eva smiled at her. “I couldn’t picture you getting married in jeans at a T-shirt.” “Am I crazy to be doing this?” “Crazy? Maybe. In love? Certainly.” “I want him to love me. That’s all I ask.” Eva refused to meet her eyes. “You need to go now.” She started toward the door. “Eva?” Hesitating, Eva turned back to her. “What do you see?”

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Eva shook her head. “I can’t. It’s all so clouded, so dependent on decisions you both make. So many lifetimes together, so much karma, so much history. Such an opportunity for personal and spiritual growth. Despite the outcome, you need to walk this path.” Without another word, she left Mariah standing in the bathroom, as confused as ever. Taking a deep breath and committing herself to her fate, Mariah walked out the door. Rico turned. The look of longing in his eyes gave her confidence that somehow she’d find a way to hold this relationship together. He let out a long slow whistle. His dark eyes danced with pleasure. Her body responded to the heat generated by his gaze and warmed all over. “Rye, maybe we should find a nicer chapel,” Rico whispered as their overbearing host and hostess moved to take their places at the purple altar in the pink carpeted chapel. “No, you were right. It doesn’t matter where.” “Yeah, but my dad, he’s been married here twice and stood-up once. Not a good omen.” Mariah glanced at their small group of guests. Ed beamed with pride, his latest twenty-something girlfriend clinging to his arm. What was her name? Bambi? Busty? Whatever her name was, she eyed Ramon with lust. Ramon stood off to one side, arms crossed in front of his chest, irritation and disgust written on his face. Angel grinned from ear to ear. Eva looked solemn and mystical. Jamal stifled a yawn. The attorney frowned and rifled through his papers, most likely praying he hadn’t forgotten anything in his haste. The female impersonator pounded out some unrecognizable song on an out-oftune organ. “Is that really a woman or a man in drag?” Rico wondered out loud. Mariah attempted to laugh. “I do love you,” she confessed, looking into his deep brown eyes. If she expected a similar declaration, she didn’t get it. Instead, he squeezed her hand and studied her with an unreadable expression. Steeling her resolve, she swore she’d make him the best wife a man could ever have, no matter what. Except for cooking, she’d never be much of a cook. “You know what? Only you and I would end up in a place like this.” She tilted her head to look up at him. Rico smiled back, a big broad smile, as the “woman” belted out an off-key Wedding Song. A knowing look passed between them. Rico offered her his arm and led her to the altar.

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Side-by-side they stood in the pink chapel with the greasy minister in the polyester suit and off-key cross-dressing musician. Facing her, Rico entwined his fingers in hers. She lost herself in his intense mocha eyes. His tender expression made her forgot that this crazy wedding didn’t mean the same thing to him that it did to her. Mariah meant every word of the vows she said. If she didn’t know better, she'd swear Rico felt the same. When the imitation Elvis preacher asked for the ring, she caught the frantic look in Rico’s eyes. “The ring?” the slimy preacher asked again. “I...uh...I...” He stammered and gave Mariah an apologetic look. Ed snuck up behind him and slapped something in his hand. “Forget something, son?” Rico smiled his gratitude. With a trembling hand, he placed the plain gold band on her finger. It actually fit. Mariah stared at it. Did Ed always carry a supply of wedding bands with him? She shrugged it off, too late to wonder now. Rico bent down to kiss her. She momentarily forgot they had an audience. She kissed him back with all the love and devotion her heart had to offer. Her fingers curled around his neck. He pulled her against him in a possessive embrace. In the background, their friends and relatives clapped and cheered. Releasing her, Rico pierced her with his eyes. “You’re mine, now, Mariah. Mine.” Did that mean he was also hers? She wasn't sure.

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Chapter 22 The Wife As the days turned to weeks and to months, Mariah developed a routine. She rode her new horse, a wedding present from Rico, and worked on the Delgado’s house then went to the import business in the afternoons to help Eduardo. She bought merchandise, examined samples, studied trends. She was actually quite good at it. Even Eduardo listened to her. A few of the employees mentioned that she seemed to be the only person who could keep Eduardo under wraps. Only a few days ago, she’d convinced him to cancel an order for 10,000 smiley-faced piñatas and a thousand gold medallions. Rico didn’t have any idea how much she worked in his business. He actually thought that Eduardo had finally grown up. Sighing, Mariah stared at the plain gold band on her finger. It probably wasn’t even real gold, kind of like her marriage. Rico never offered to replace her wedding band with another. On the other hand, he didn’t wear one at all. Marriage? What a joke it was. Marriage meant nothing to Rico. While she’d fantasized that he’d said his vows with meaning, he’d merely acted his way through them. His actions afterward proved that. “Hey, sorry I’m late.” Ramon slid into the booth across from her and interrupted her pity party. She smiled at him, grateful for a friendly face. At least Ramon always found time for her when she needed someone to talk to, which was more than she could say for her husband. It hadn’t taken Mariah long to figure out she’d married a workaholic. Rico went to work before she got up and came home late in the evening. Sometimes she met him for lunch, but usually he was too busy. She’d never really known the man before marrying him. She’d just seen a little piece of him in the San Juans. His absolute dedication to his work

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caught her off guard. He spent half of his day at his import business and the other half at his recording company. Mariah tried her best to be the understanding wife. She thought a lot about her mother and how she handled an absent husband with grace and acceptance. Yet, her father had made more of an effort to spend time with his family. Rico avoided spending time with her. He never mentioned the San Juan property or Sueño, and she didn’t ask. Obviously, he hadn’t been successful and didn’t want to admit his defeat. And Babies? Never once did he talk to her about children. “Why are you so sad?” Ramon asked her. He touched her arm. His concerned gesture almost undid her. Mariah looked up at him, needing someone to talk to who might understand. She couldn’t admit to Eva or Angel that she’d made a huge mistake. “I think Rico is sorry he married me.” Ramon threw back his head and laughed. “Rico? No way. He adores you. The dumb bastard just hasn’t come to terms with his feelings yet.” “Then why does he keep shutting me out, Ramon? I’ve tried everything. I’ve been understanding, patient, insistent.” Well, then there was horny. That worked every time. Their love life was the only thing that didn’t seem to suffer. “Give him time, Rye. Rico doesn’t like to lose control. You make him lose control. He hasn’t figured out how to handle it yet. He will. Don’t lose faith. Once he learns to trust you, he won’t care about controlling the situation or you anymore.” “What if he never trusts me enough?” “Hang in there. He’s worth fighting for. Hell, why do you think I still hang around no matter how much he abuses me? Shit, I owe him my life.” “You do?” She’d never heard that before. Maybe he was just speaking figuratively. “Yeah, I was pretty screwed up as a teenager. My mom died. She was all I had. Ed never paid much attention to me. Rico took me in. Dad means well, just never follows through. You know?” “Believe me. I do.” “I got messed up with the wrong crowd. Same old teenage story. I was sixteen, and Rico was twenty-four. His career had just started to take off. They loved him in Latin America and Europe, but he hadn’t crossed over to

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America yet. Anyway, he was flying high. Yet, he kept track of me, he was on my ass all the time. I was a troubled kid. No matter how bad it got, he never gave up on me. I hated him for his interference in my life. If I was out all night partying, he’d be the one waiting up at home, ready to nail my butt. He took me on concert tours with him, hired a tutor. Kept me too busy to get into much trouble. He gave me the music. If it wouldn’t have been for him, I’d be dead in a gutter or in jail by now. I never appreciated him, in fact, I resented him. When I screwed him over, he turned his back on me. I lost him as my brother. Only then did I realize how much I’d really lost. Rico doesn’t forgive easily. I’ve been trying to make it up to him ever since.” “Why did you do it, Ramon? Why’d you lie to the press like that about him?” “Hell if I know. Jealousy? I guess I wanted to ruin him. He was always so right, so perfect. Hey, I was having my own problems. I was young and selfish and stupid.” Ramon shook his head. “I was doing damage control for my own career, trying to distance myself from the mess. I lived in fear that they'd find out I'd been in the room that night, so I pointed the finger at him. You wouldn’t believe the amount of free publicity that comes from a scandal like that. My career skyrocketed.” “While Rico’s went in the toilet.” “Yeah. Flushed right down to the sewer.” Ramon wrung his hands. “I’m ashamed of my part in all that. I behaved like a selfish ass, which I was. Hell, I’d take it all back if he’d just be my brother again. I justified it because Rico never had the passion for performing that I do. Writing songs was his passion, not singing. I knew he could do something else and be happy. But me, performing is all I’ve ever wanted. If I could take it all back, I would.” “Oh, Ramon.” Mariah’s heart went out to him. “Don’t feel sorry for me. I made my bed. I helped do this to him. I betrayed him. After all he did for me. I’m only telling you so you might understand why he’s so over-protective of his emotions.” “But he doesn’t seem to hate Ed for everything he did.” Ramon laughed. “Ed is Ed. We all make concessions for him. He never means any harm. He just never thinks. Yeah, Ed ran his business into the

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ground and just about bankrupted him. Our aunts and uncles and cousin bled the rest of him dry. Carmen left him for his manager. We all used him. He needs someone like you to love him. To heal him.” “I do love him—so much it hurts. I was certain in a few months he’d realize he loved me, too. Instead, we seem to grow further and further apart instead of getting closer.” Ramon frowned and reached across the table to squeeze her hand. “He’s still confused and still hurting, but I know he needs you.” “You’ve sure changed your tune. You were dead set against me marrying him.” “Only because I knew it’d be like this, that he’d hurt you. But I also know that he needs you a lot more than you need him.” Mariah sighed. Spending time with Ramon only added to her guilt and stress. Ramon was the brother she never had, but Rico wouldn’t understand. Eventually, she’d tell him that she and Ramon had become good friends. All hell would break lose. She dreaded that day. She doubted their shaky relationship would survive her deception, no matter how innocent her relationship with Ramon was. **** Eduardo approached his son like a man walking through a mine field. Rico knew something bothered his father, but he let it go until Ed actually broached the subject. “Don’t you think Mariah seems a little unhappy, Rico?” “Unhappy? What’s she got to be unhappy about? Shit, I just converted a spare bedroom into a closet for her a month ago, and she’s already filled it. I bought her an expensive horse to ride. She doesn’t have to cook or clean or do anything she doesn’t want to do. What the hell more does she need?” Rico couldn’t curb the defensive tone in his voice. Ed had struck a sore spot, one that rubbed him raw. “You.” “Me? Hell, she doesn’t even know I’m alive until we climb between the sheets.” Ed raised his eyebrows in surprise. “I think you’re mistaken. She thinks she’s losing you, and she doesn’t know what to do about it.”

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“Losing me? Where did you ever get a ridiculous idea like that? Has she been talking to you?” “Uh, no. Ramon thinks....” “Ramon!” Rico roared. “What does Ramon have to do with this? Is she seeing Ramon? That explains a lot. She’s been sneaking around with that little weasel behind my back.” “They’re only friends. You’re the one that holds her heart, Rico.” “Oh, come on, Dad, what do you know? Mr. Love ‘em and Leave ‘em.” His father winced slightly. Rico hit a bullseye with that slam. “I admit I know a lot about bad relationships. In fact, I think I can claim to be an expert on them.” Rico conceded that one. “So why does my relationship with Mariah matter to you?” “It matters because you’re on the verge of losing the best thing that ever happened to you, and that includes Carmen.” Rico glared a warning at him. He didn’t like this conversation, but Ed bumbled on. “Rico, I lost your mother because I was too young and too dumb to realize what I had when I had it. All the rest of these women have been window dressing that I was stupid enough to marry because I thought I loved them.” “All twelve of them?” Rico couldn’t resist the jab. “God, it’s been that many?” Ed shrugged. “Yeah, all twelve of them. Look, son, you could do it right the first time instead of being a divorce statistic.” “I’ll take care of my wife. I don’t need your interference. You can tell my snot-nosed brother to mind his own business before I mind it for him.” “They’re good friends. She’s been good for Ramon, for your whole family. Rico, we love Mariah. In fact, I think the problem here is that you've fallen in love with her yourself, and you’re scared shitless about it.” Rico snorted. “You turn love on and off like a light switch. What do you know?” “Is it better to fall in love at the drop of a hat, or build walls so high you never take a chance on love?” “Look, love was never a part of this bargain. She knew that going into it.”

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Ed smiled a sad smile. “Yeah, but did you?” **** Mariah broke into a smile when she noticed Rico standing in the doorway. His eyes skimmed over his family and settled on her. His expression raged with the fury of a nasty thunderstorm. He stalked out to the patio where the Sanchez clan had all assembled for a family dinner, a weekly Sunday tradition she had instituted. He stopped by her side. She stood and touched his arm, hoping to sooth the savage beast. “Rico.” She forced a smile and kissed his cheek. “I told you I didn’t want you seeing Ramon.” Planting his feet in a wide stance, he placed his hands on his hips. An accusing finger jabbed close to her face. “You told me, did you? You don’t own me, Rico Sanchez.” Her own anger came a slow boil. “You’re my wife.” “Oh my, God, I’m surprised you remember that little detail.” Rico grabbed her arm and pulled her against him. “Of course, I remember. Hell, I remember every time I pay my credit card bills.” “What’s that supposed to mean?” His grip on her arm hurt. She squirmed in an attempt to free herself, but he held on tighter. “It means stay away from my worthless brother.” “Ramon is not worthless. In fact, most of the time I like him better than I like you.” A muscle twitched in his jaw as he glared at her. He let go of her arm. His fists clenched at his sides. “Then maybe you should have married him.” His dark eyes turned black. “What? And miss out on all this fun? Not on your life.” Sarcasm wasn't something she used often, but this infuriating man brought out the worst in her. Meanwhile, Angel, Ramon, and Ed sat on the balcony railing like Parrots on a perch. Mariah considered asking them if they wanted a cracker. Even better, maybe they should fly away. “Aren’t you going to accuse me of screwing around with him?” “Of course not.” Rico smirked, as if that was the most ridiculous thing he’d ever heard.

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“Why not?” Ramon asked. They both turned to him at the same time and said in unison: “Shut up, Ramon.” “With the kind of sex we have, there’s no way you’re sleeping with anyone else.” “Oh, really? You think you’re that good?” “I know I am.” To prove his point, Rico crushed her in his arms and gave her a deep wet kiss. She wrapped her fingers around his arms and pushed with all her strength. The man was immovable. His mouth moved over hers, demanding, insistent, and needy. She resisted him, but he exploited his knowledge of her body’s hot spots. He wore her down like he always did. She lost herself in his kiss and forgot that she was pissed at him. The birds on the perch squirmed a little. One by one they snuck past Rico and Mariah and flew the coop. In a sexual haze, Mariah barely noticed them leaving. Rico threw her over his shoulder and carried her upstairs. She alternated between laughing and yelling at him. He confused her that much. He threw onto the bed and stripped off his clothes. Standing over her, his body heaved from exertion and arousal. Mariah looked up at him, not the least bit afraid. Rico would never hurt her physically, no matter how mad he was. “Rico. Come here. Love me.” She needed to feel him. He was such an attentive and unselfish lover. When they had sex, she could almost imagine that he loved her. She desperately needed to feel loved right now even if it was only passion and lust imitating love. His expression softened slightly. He pulled off her skirt and panties then settled between her legs. Mariah encouraged him, not that he needed much. He entered her body and branded her once again as his, while their other problems remained unsettled between them. **** Rico walked into the sun room. Mariah's eyes opened wide in surprise. She probably hadn’t expected to see him at home during the middle of the day. Well, he’d neglected things too long. Today they’d be straightened out once and for all.

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She stood and brushed past him, but he reached out and pulled her against his chest. “We have to talk.” She grew stiff under his hand and eyed him warily. “What’s up with this?” He waved the small plastic container in front of her face. “My...my pills.” “You’re taking them?” “Yes.” “All this time I figured you’d be pregnant any day.” “I never promised you babies. I told you I wasn’t sure. As long as you and I are having problems, I’m not bringing a baby into this world.” “Problems? The only problems we’re having could be solved if you’d quit being so stubborn.” “Me! Stubborn?” She sputtered, staring at him as if he was a stranger. Frustration rolled around inside him, picking up speed and intensity. “I thought I told you not to see him anymore.” Guilt sliced across Mariah’s delicate features. She tossed her dark hair off her face. Tilting her head back, she challenged him with her eyes. “We settled this yesterday. I told you I’ll see anyone I wish to see. I’m faithful to you, that’s what matters.” Her eyes narrowed. “Besides, how did you know I was with Ramon?” “Because I followed you.” “You followed me? Rico, why?” “Look, Mariah, I give you everything. I don’t think it’s too much to ask of you to stop seeing Ramon.” “It is. It’s the principal of the thing. I’m not doing anything wrong. He’s a good friend. He listens to me. I tell him things I can’t tell anyone else.” “You don’t talk to that little punk about us, do you?” The guilty expression on her face told him that that was exactly what she was doing. Something shifted inside him. Ramon knew about his fears, his weaknesses, and his problems establishing a relationship with his wife out of the bedroom. “If it wasn’t for Ramon, I would have left you a month ago.” Mariah turned on her spiked heels and trudged up the curved staircase. She paused halfway to look at him over her shoulder. “I can’t live like this anymore, Rico. I don’t know what else to do to make you love me. That’s all I ever

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wanted. You can take the horses, the designer clothes, the money, all of it, if you’d just love me.” A sob escaped from her throat, and she half-ran, halfstumbled up the remaining steps. The door to the master bedroom slammed shut. Cold hard steel stabbed through his chest, cutting right down to his soul. She confided in Ramon but not him. How had it come to this? He already knew the answer. The more she meant to him, the more he pulled away to protect himself. He wouldn’t let her in because if she left him, she’d take a bigger piece of his heart than Carmen had ever taken. Rico staggered backwards against the banister as the truth hit home. Left him? She would have left him a month ago if not for Ramon? The words echoed over and over in his brain. He’d been working sixteen hours a day to avoid going home to her. Not because he didn’t want to be with her, but because he wanted to be with her so much, it scared the shit out of him. He heard things thumping around upstairs and imagined her packing. Oh God, what had he done? He’d spent three months driving her away. Why? Because he didn’t deserve someone who loved him for him? Because he was a coward and afraid to take the risk of losing his heart? He didn’t know how long he stood in that hallway. Thoughts ground through his mind over and over like an old-fashioned meat grinder until they were so garbled they didn’t make sense to him. Nothing made sense to him. She came down the stairs, dragging two large suitcases behind her. Tears streamed down her beautiful face. Her makeup had run, leaving black streaks under her eyes. Her disheveled hair went every which way. He heard a car in the driveway. Glancing out the side window in the entryway, he spotted a taxi parked outside. She avoided his eyes as she skirted past him and opened the door. The driver waited on the other side, taking her bags from her. Rico stepped in front of her, barring her exit. “Mariah, if you walk out that door, don't ever expect to come back.” He wanted her to hurt like he hurt, but her determined expression backed him up a step. “Do you love me, Rico? Do you?” She searched his eyes for the answer, placing her hands on his chest. He said nothing. He felt choked, strangled. The words he wanted to say wouldn’t come out of his mouth. Hell, he wasn’t even sure what words those

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were. He stared at her tear-stained face and knew he’d broken her heart. And what about his own? “If you’d only say those words, I’d stay by your side forever, through every good and bad time.” She waited. He clamped his jaw shut and maintained his stubborn silence and mulish pride. She sighed with resignation. “I won't be back. It's over. Good bye, my love.” Tenderly, she kissed his cheek one last time and touched his face. She shook her head. “I took a chance with you, Rico. More than once. Why wouldn’t you take a chance with me?” “I did,” he insisted defensively. “No, you didn’t. You didn’t give the most special part of yourself. You never trusted me enough to give me your heart.” Her tortured sob nearly ripped him in two, but he didn’t cave. Stiff and unyielding, he clenched his fists tightly to his sides. “I love you, Rico. I’ll always love you.” Grabbing the last of her bags, she whirled around and stumbled down the steps. She never looked back. Rico stood on the front porch, paralyzed by disbelief until the taxi disappeared around a corner. He'd been dropped to the bottom of the ocean without a lifeline. She’d been his lifeline, the key to his soul. Grief tore through him, a tidal wave devastating everything in its wake. Tears streamed down his face. His heart sunk to his knees. His chest constricted, making breathing a painful chore. “Nooooo! Nooooo! Mariah! Mariah, I need you!” He didn’t even recognize that mournful sound as his voice. Sinking to his knees, he buried his face in his hands. He sobbed without shame as his world crashed down around him.

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Chapter 23 The Realization “What’s that song you’re singing? It’s incredible.” Rico glanced up to discover Ramon standing on his patio. “Who let you in?” “Your housekeeper. She’s concerned about you. We all are, Rico. I wanted to make sure you’re okay.” “Thanks, but I don’t need your concern. I’ll be fine.” Ramon settled next to him in a lounge chair. “You don’t look fine.” He studied Rico as helped himself to his brother’s untouched beer. “In fact, you look like shit.” “I don’t need you to tell me that.” He knew what Ramon saw. Several days’ stubble darkened his face. His rumpled clothes, unkempt hair, and black circles under his bloodshot eyes made him look like he’d been on a three-day drunk. Yet, orange juice was the strongest thing he’d had to drink. “Dad’s worried about you. You haven’t been to work in almost a week.” Ramon laced his fingers behind his head and put his feet on Rico’s glass table in a deceptively casual pose, as casual as a Cobra ready to strike. “Tomorrow. I’ll be there tomorrow. Before Ed runs my business into the ground.” “Don’t worry. Angel’s been keeping him out of trouble, but it’s a fulltime job. Especially, since Mariah isn’t around.” “Mariah? What did she have to do with the business?” Puzzled, Rico met his brother’s eyes. “You really weren’t paying attention, were you? Too wrapped up in yourself or what?” Rico didn’t answer. Even Ramon’s needling didn’t have the usual effect on him. He couldn’t even manage to muster any self-righteous indignation.

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“Mariah’s been working in your business ever since you married her, and you didn’t even notice. Dad actually listened to her. She kept him in line. He ran all his ideas through her, and she approved all the ordering.” “She did? I thought our sales were way up because Dad finally figured it out.” Ramon laughed. “Come on, Rico. That’d be a miracle. Mariah controlled him, but she did it so well, he never realized it. He was wrapped around her perfectly manicured little finger. She took your import business and ran with it. She’s got a knack for buying the right things. Of course, with her background, I’m not sure why that would come as a surprise to you.” Rico leaned forward and clutched his head. He felt a major headache coming on. He'd been blind and stupid. She’d been running his business, taking the heat off him, so he could concentrate on getting his new recording company on its feet. The entire time she’d allowed Ed to take the credit. “Rico, that song you were singing a minute ago. Did you write that?” Ramon smoothly changed the subject. “Yeah. Yeah, I wrote it.” Rico looked at the guitar he'd leaned against the table. Expensive and brand new, it didn't have the sound or feel of his old Gibson. The Gibson was irreplaceable, just like Mariah, and he'd thrown them both away. “It's incredible.” “Thanks.” He’d written several sad love songs since she’d left. They flowed out of him like someone had let the cork out of the bottle. One good thing came out of all this pain. “I’d like to put that on my next CD. Do you have anything else?” “Yeah, plenty.” Rico nodded, grateful for the distraction, anything to take his mind off of her. Not that every song he’d written didn’t have her in mind. They all did. “Can I hear them?” Rico begrudgingly obliged. He sang every one of them. Ramon listened and offered no comment until he finished. “Why don’t you go after her, Rico?” Rico shook his head. “I can’t.” “Why not? She loves you. Damn, I’d give anything to have a woman as devoted to me as she is to you. She’s special, Rico. Can’t you see that?”

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He could. In fact, he saw it more every day. “She deserves someone better than me.” Ramon laughed. “Well, I can’t argue that, but she wants you. She’s a one-man woman, and you’re the lucky sucker she picked. Hell, I'm insanely jealous.” Rico looked at his brother, really looked at him for the first time in a long time. Concern furrowed Ramon’s forehead and softened his eyes. The little punk actually cared. He'd expected Ramon to gloat about Mariah leaving, to tell him he deserved the heartache. Instead, his brother sympathized and encouraged him to go after her. Maybe hell had frozen over while he’d been wallowing in self-pity. “You’re alright for a little brother, you know that?” His brother beamed, looking happier than when he'd won his first Grammy. Ramon brushed his hand across his face and looked away. Swallowing, he spoke in a husky tone. “Thanks. You don’t know how much that means to me.” “I think I do,” Rico murmured. “I think I do.” They sat in silence, deep in their own thoughts. Ramon eventually interrupted the quiet. “Rico, do you love her?” Rico looked up. The question shocked him, but not as much as his answer. Love her? He’d spent all these years carrying a torch for Carmen. Loving Carmen had become second nature, a part of him like a fingernail or a big toe. Somewhere in the last several months, he’d forgotten to pine for her. Slowly, her part in his life faded until she became a good friend and nothing more. He couldn’t pinpoint the exact moment when the transition took place. Maybe it happened in the San Juans. Maybe later. Yet, she rarely entered his thoughts anymore. Instead, a green-eyed beauty with a wicked sense of humor, a brilliant smile, and a penchant for changing her moods as often as she changed clothes invaded his every waking moment and all his dreams. He loved Mariah. God, he’d loved her for months. Maybe he’d loved her from the moment he’d found her face first in the mud. That was why the sex had been so good. It’d been the only way he’d been able to show her how much he cared. Rico’s eyes met Ramon’s. “Shit.”

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Ramon raised one eyebrow. “Excuse me.” “I do love her.” An anvil lifted from his chest. Those words freed his heart from a life-sentence of loneliness. “Then what are you waiting for?” Ramon grinned from ear-to-ear. “Go get her and bring her back.” “I will, but first I have one piece of unfinished business. Tell all the relatives and my managers to meet me here in an hour.” “But...” “Do it. It’s time for a change.” He had to make his life his own before he could make a life with Mariah. An hour later every freeloading aunt, uncle, cousin, and other assorted family members sat in his living room, including his father. Rico glanced around the room. They all regarded him with interest. Most likely, each one trying to figure out how to exploit whatever he had to say to their advantage. Taking a deep breath, Rico uttered the words he should have said years ago. “No more free rides.” His statement was blunt and to the point, but nothing less would work for this group. Everyone frowned, glancing at each other as if trying figure out who he was referring to. His father’s face tightened, and he opened his mouth to speak. Rico held up a hand to stop him. “No, hear me out. Most of all--you.” He pointed at Ed. “From now on I’m taking control of my business. Angel will be my Vice President. You will not purchase anything without Angel’s signature. I will see to it that our vendors know this. Any unauthorized purchases will be your financial responsibility.” Ed said nothing. He just nodded. Rico swung his gaze to the rest of them. They were fidgeting and avoiding his eyes, as well they should. “Every one of you will have a place in my business as my relatives. That’s where the charity stops. You will be treated like any other employee. If you don’t perform your work to the standards set by my managers, they have my full authority to release you. At that time, I also release any responsibility I have to you as family.” Sighing, he took a deep breath and continued. “I haven’t done myself or any of you favors by letting you drain my bank account with nothing in return. It stops now. Every one of you is welcome in my business and in my home as long as you respect me and do an honest day’s work. That is all I ask. Questions?”

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No one said a word, not even Ed. “Good, Angel will outline our employee expectations.” Nodding to Angel, Rico left the room. He had more important matters. He had to attend to his heart. **** Getting her and bringing her back turned out to be easier said than done. The woman appeared to have disappeared from the face of the earth. Rico searched everywhere, hired a team of detectives, and called everyone he could think of. No one had seen her. She’d withdrawn enough money from the bank before leaving town that she would be able to hide out somewhere for quite a while without telltale credit card slips or checks surfacing. His gut instincts told him she’d gone back to the San Juans, yet the investigators found nothing after several searches. She was there. Somewhere. And he’d find her. **** Mariah hid from the world for the first three weeks in Seattle. She cried for her lost love, her life that might have been, for her parents, her aunt, Sueño, and the loss of her farm. Nothing hurt like saying goodbye to Rico. Her heart had shattered into a million pieces. Picking up the shards and assembling them back together would be a hard arduous process. She needed the comfort of the islands. She rented a cabin on neighboring Lopez Island. She wouldn’t be able to hide out on Orcas without being discovered, nor did she want to run into Warren. One night she snuck over to the old farm, hoping for a glimpse of Sueño. She found nothing. The entire place was deserted. The horses were gone, same as all the equipment and furniture. She sat down on the grass between the barn and arena. Surprised she had any tears left in her, she cried until all emotion drained from her body. “Mariah?” Mariah looked up. “Eva? What are you doing here?” “Looking for you.”

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“How did you find me?” Eva gave her one of those what-a-stupid-question looks. “You shouldn’t be alone right now.” Mariah smiled through her tears. “Thank you.” Eva looked around at the empty farm. “Where is everything?” “It’s gone. All gone. They’re gone. My mother. My father. My aunt. Sueño.” She choked on a sob. “And Rico. I’m alone. All alone.” Eva sat down next to her and put her arms around her. “Rye, you’re not alone. You have me, Jamal, all your friends.” Mariah wiped the tears from her eyes and stood up. “There’s nothing here for me now.” “Rico loves you, Mariah.” “No, he doesn’t. He still loves Carmen.” “Loving Carmen became a habit. He doesn’t love her. He needs to figure that out.” “I’ve been gone almost a month. He hasn’t figured it out yet. At least he hasn’t clued me in on it.” “He will. Give him time.” Eva’s voice oozed with confidence. Mariah met her friend’s eyes. “Is that the psychic in you speaking? Or just a friend?” “A psychic and a friend to both of you.” Eva’s mysterious smile graced her face. “There is magic in this place.” “I know. That’s why I came here. But it hurts to see the farm and to know it’s not mine.” “He’s thinking of you.” “Eva, please, don’t give me false hope.” “That’s not my intention. He’ll come for you. Give him time.” “I wouldn’t go back to him in a million years.” “Yes, you will. He’s learned from all this. So have you.” Mariah sighed. She knew Eva meant to help, but her mystical garbage didn’t make her feel much better. “I did the worst thing I could do to him, I lied to him. I deceived him about Ramon. Maybe he didn’t talk to me about his life, but I didn’t talk to him either.” “Are you going to file for a divorce?” “No, I’ll leave that up to him. If that’s what he wants.” “It’s not what he wants. Trust me.”

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Chapter 24 The Magic The tide glided onto the sandy beach then receded slowly back into the inlet beyond the sheltered cove. A lone figure walked through the salt water. Barefoot, her jeans were rolled up to her knees. A ponytail held her dark hair back from her face. Lost in thought, she bent down to pick up a rock and tossed it. After a small splash, it sank to the bottom. Rico sat on steps he’d built for her months ago and watched her for several minutes. She never turned his way or noticed him. Gathering his courage and his resolve, he rose. He patted his jeans to assure himself that the gift still nestled safely in his pocket. If she heard him coming, she didn’t turn around. Perhaps, the rustling of the tree branches in the breeze muffled his approach. A brilliant sunset painted the sky in vivid oranges, reds, and golds. Mother Nature must be on his side. He couldn’t ask for a more romantic setting. Within five feet of her, he cleared his throat. She turned slowly to face him, as if she knew who stood behind her. “Hi.” His voice cracked, betraying his lack of confidence. She said nothing. Yet when their eyes met, he saw it all. The pain, the sleepless nights, the shattered dreams. All of it. He wanted to wrap her in his arms and erase her heartache. Start over. Make it up to her. Tonight would be a start, if she’d forgive him. She smiled a sad smile, touching the couple days’ growth of stubble on his face. “Did you lose your razor?” “No. You always said you missed your scruffy Rodrigo.” “Is he back?” “He never left.” Rico took her hands in his. She didn’t pull away as he’d feared. His eyes never left her beautiful, sweet face. She watched him curiously, yet passively, uncertain what he planned for her.

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He cleared his throat, so nervous he felt sick. Heartsick, head sick, every kind of sick. His palms were sweaty, and he trembled as he held her hands. “Mariah.” He gathered his courage, took a deep breath, and plunged in without a life preserver. It would be up to her to save him or let him drown. He forced his mouth to speak the words in his heart. “You are every love song I’ve ever sung. You are my light at the end of a long day. Your voice is like the comforting whisper of the wind. You are the passion in my soul. You are the fire that feeds the flame in my body. Your laughter lightens my spirit no matter how heavily it is weighed down. Your smile is my guide in this journey through my life.” He hesitated, searched her face for a moment then he continued. “It’s a journey I don’t want to make alone, Mariah. I want to make it with you by my side every step of the way. I want to share my joys, my sorrows, my failures, my triumphs with you. I want to feel your soft skin moving under mine in the heat of the night, every night.” Mariah’s heart beat louder than horse hooves pounding on concrete. She didn’t dare hope. Her hands shook, and he gave them a gentle, encouraging squeeze. Her eyes widened in shock as he dropped to one knee before her in the sand. Rico grasped her hands tightly. His dark eyes held her captive as they had that first day they'd met. A lone tear slid down Mariah’s face as she gazed down at him. “Mariah....” He stopped in mid-sentence, as if trying to compose himself. He seemed choked up. “I want to do this right this time. Will you do me the honor of being my partner for life?” She stared at him. She wasn’t sure what he was asking and didn’t dare jump to conclusions. He looked up at her, his face expectant, waiting for her answer. When she didn’t answer, he prodded her, “Mariah?” She continued to stare at him, chewing on her lower lip nervously. Her heart lodged in her throat. She couldn’t believe she was still standing because she should have fainted by now. What should she say? Was he really trying to tell her what she’d dreamed of hearing? What if he meant something else? She didn’t know how to answer his question. Rico bent his head and kissed each palm tenderly. He looked up at her again. His chocolate brown eyes gazed deeply into her emerald green eyes.

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The world swirled around them and dispersed like so many grains of sand, leaving just the two of them in their own private place. Rico cleared his throat again. “Mariah Elizabeth Baker, will you marry me for love this time? For real?” She brought her hand up to her mouth in shock then she wiped away the tears that ran freely from her eyes down her cheeks. His words rendered her completely speechless. For love? Had she heard him right? Rico looked hopefully at her. “Mariah.” he reminded her patiently but with a quiver in his voice. Mariah woke from her daze. A smile crept across her face. A good businesswoman knows when to take advantage of a situation. As much as she wanted to scream her acceptance to the heavens, he needed to hear her terms. “It depends.” Rico looked dumbfounded. “Depends on what?” he gasped. “The prenup.” “Oh, man, Mariah, I’m so sorry about that. I’ll tear it up. I shouldn’t have done it. I trust you.” “Not that prenup, silly. Do what you want with that. I don’t care about your money. I’m talking about my prenup.” “Yours? Okay, fine, I’ll sign anything you want.” “You don’t have to sign this one. I’ll take your promise and your heart as legally binding.” Rico sensed a trap, but he might was well put his foot in it and let it spring. Better to be bound to Mariah than to be in this lonely prison called freedom. “Whatever you want.” He winced as a sharp rock jabbed his knee. “I want a lot.” Rico shifted his weight to a more comfortable position. He might be kneeling for while. What the hell did she find so amusing? Watching him squirm? Putting him in his place? Making him beg? Or was she just relishing the pained expression on his face? “Are you okay? Do you have indigestion?” “Mariah, just get on with it. My knee is killing me.” “Oh, sorry.” She cast a sly glance at his knee. She didn’t look sorry. She looked wickedly elated—at his expense. She wasn’t getting even, she was getting ahead. “Rye, please.”

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“Here are my stipulations.” She paused for a little drama. “I’ll marry you if: Number one—I get a real wedding, a big one without the fat Elvis and cross-dressing pianist.” “No problem.” His knee throbbed like the bass on a cranked stereo system. “What else?” “Number Two—I want a wedding gown designed by Versace, or Armani, or Christian Dior, or....” “Okay, fine. I get the point. A designer wedding gown.” “Number Three—I want Ramon to be your best man.” “Sure.” He almost laughed. The expression on her face was priceless. His quick agreement threw her for a loop. “I would’ve picked him anyway.” “You would have?” Her confusion amused him. “Of course, he’s my brother. Is that it?” “Uh, no.” Flustered, she seemed at a loss for words. “Number...uh...uh....” “Four. You’re on Number Four,” Rico said helpfully. Now he couldn’t feel his knee. “Right, four. Number Four—You can’t work weekends and no more than forty hours a week.” “A couple hours on weekends and sixty hours a week,” he countered. “No weekends and fifty hours a week.” Rico studied her thoughtfully. “That doesn’t include parties on weekends if I’m hustling talent, does it?” “As long as you take me with you.” “So if I take you with me on weekends, I can work.” “You can try,” she said slyly. “Deal.” He grinned. The way he figured it, he won either way. Either he was working or she was working at keeping him from working. “Number Five—I want an official job in your import business, and I want my own office.” “You can have my office. I don’t think I’ll need it. How about Vice President of Marketing for a title?” “Madam Vice President. I like the sound of that.” “I figured you would. Are you done yet?” The numbness crept up his leg and settle in his thigh.

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“One more thing. Number Six—no kids. At least not for a few years. I want to enjoy being with you, just the two of us. We’ll have a lot of time to have a family later.” “You’re a tough negotiator, baby, but I’ll concede to your demands.” “Promise?” “I promise with all my heart, Mariah.” Rico put his hand still holding hers over his heart and smiled at her. Her eyes glittered brighter than a disco ball. “Now it’s your turn.” They’d have to amputate his leg. It’d never carry his weight again. She sobered immediately. “Yes?” “Will you marry me?” Mariah swallowed purposefully then said in a calm, clear voice, “I guess so.” That was it? I guess so? He felt sick. Heartsick. Then he noticed the little twinkle in her eyes. The brat. Giddy as a teenager, she bent down and threw her arms around his neck, pressing his face into her crotch. “Oh, yes. Yes! YES! YES! YES! YES!” She screamed. Sniffling, she stepped back to look down at him. Her eyes glazed with tears. Rico fumbled in his pocket. She swiped at her tears again, eyeing what he held in his hand. The large diamond sparkled in a platinum setting with smaller diamonds set in a channel around the band. It was exquisite, one of a kind, and designed just for her. He slipped it on her finger and sealed it with a kiss. It fit perfectly. He couldn’t stand, so she sank to her knees and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I love you, sweetheart,” he said as he held her to him and caressed her cheek with his mouth. Together they melted into the sand. **** Rico led her to the large shed next to the Delgado house. “Are your eyes shut?” “Yes, they are.” “Don’t open them yet.” He opened the shed door and paused to switch on a light. She’d made him the happiest man in the world tonight, now it was his turn.

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A horse nickered nearby. Mariah froze. “Rico?” A smile broke across Rico’s face. “You can open your eyes now, Rye.” He watched as Mariah walked through the shed door as if in a trance. For a moment, she just stared then she ran a few steps and threw her arms around Sueño, hugging him tightly. Her tears left wet spots on his neck. Sueño nuzzled her affectionately. He looked a little worse for wear, thin with some scars. Thank God, he’d heal. They all would. Still clinging to Sueño, Mariah looked at Rico. “Oh, Rico. Thank you so much. How did you ever get him back?” “I had Ramon buy him from Warren’s sister. He made her an offer she couldn’t refuse. You know what a charming hustler my brother can be.” Rico grinned then sobered. “I’m sorry, Rye. I couldn’t get the farm back. Warren isn’t selling, no matter what the price. I’m not beat yet, but I can’t promise anything.” Mariah moved away from Sueño and hugged Rico tightly to her. “It’s alright. I know you’re trying. No matter what, I love you, Rico. I love you so much.” **** He followed behind her up the stairs of the Delgado’s house. His hands circled her hips, holding her against him so that they had to take the stairs in step with each other. She giggled and lost her balance, falling backwards against his body. They’d never make it to the bedroom at this rate. Her clothes were in disarray and so were his. Mariah pushed Rico away from her in the doorway. “I need to use the bathroom, baby. I'll just be a minute.” She glanced at him over her shoulder and winked. “I have a little something from Victoria's Secret I need to put on.” She sauntered away from him. Her hips swayed seductively back and forth. “Dios.” Rico groaned. He tried to follow her, but she shut the bathroom door in his face and locked it. She wasn't taking any chances. Mariah stood at the bathroom counter, staring into her makeup bag. She took out her deepest red lipstick and applied it liberally. She brushed her hair, making sure it was glossy and soft. She sighed happily as she replayed

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the night’s events in her mind. That man was such a lovable rascal. His diamond ring glittered on her finger. She stripped off her clothes and put on the little outfit she'd purchased at Victoria's Secret over a month ago. The laces up the back caused her some trouble, but she managed after several aborted attempts. She opened the door with a fresh resolve. This was the beginning of a new direction for her life and his. She looked forward to their future. Somehow, someway, the two of them would deal with the challenges that life threw their way. They could do anything with love on their side. She paused in the doorway. Dozens of candles lit the dark room. Their flickering light cast warm shadows on the walls and ceiling. She glanced around but couldn't find Rico in the candlelight. “Rico?” she called softly, but there wasn't an answer. For a moment she almost panicked, afraid something had happened to him. A sheer curtain billowing in the breeze caught her eye. The French doors were open onto the balcony. Smiling, she pulled a sheer little robe around her body and walked to the doorway. Candles lined the balcony railing and disappeared around the corner of the house. She followed the trail of light to her destiny. **** Rico left Mariah sleeping soundly in the bedroom. He ventured out to the balcony, enjoying the sunrise. His eyes didn’t miss a thing as he gazed at his breathtaking surroundings. A ferry crossed the inlet, lit up like a Christmas tree. The dawn light reflected on the water turning it to crystal. Islands dotted the horizon like diamonds on a bracelet. The San Juans called to him, inviting him to relax, enjoy their magic, and rest his soul. An object on the dock below caught his attention. Slipping into his shoes, he walked down the steps to it and picked it up, studying it in wonder. A shiver ran through his body. The 1953 Gibson guitar was in mint condition. He turned it over, finding familiar scratches and marks on its otherwise perfect surface. Mariah came up behind him and wrapped her arms around him. “That’s beautiful. Is it yours?” she asked, looking at the guitar. “Sí it is mine. I lost it last time I was here.” “Someone must have found it for you.”

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“Yes, someone must have.” He turned, holding her to him. Over her shoulder, a movement in the inlet caught his attention. The black and white fin of an Orca whale disappeared beneath the surface of the water. He waited for it to resurface, but it never did. He shook his head in wonder and a small smile spread across his face. Mariah was right. There was magic in these islands.

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THE END WWW.JAMIDAVENPORT.COM

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jami Davenport has been writing since she was old enough to know the alphabet. An advocate of happy endings, Jami writes sexy romantic comedy, sizzling suspense, and equestrian fiction. Jami lives on a small farm near Puget Sound with her husband, a former Green Beret turned plumber, a chocolate Lab with a tennis ball fetish, a prince disguised as an orange tabby cat, and an opinionated Hanoverian mare. In her spare time, Jami rides and shows her dressage horse and grows roses. An avid boater, Jami has spent countless hours in the San Juan Islands, the setting for her first two books. In her opinion, it is the most beautiful place on earth.

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