
Synopsis:
P.I. Dane Carter assumed his murdered twin's identity to find his killer.
Angel Morris was his main suspecta woman his twin had betrayed. Now Dane could destroy her trust again.
By falling in love with her
Beguiled
Lori Foster
Fallen Angels 1
HARLEQUIN®
TORONTO NEW YORK LONDON
AMSTERDAM PARIS SYDNEY HAMBURG
STOCKHOLM ATHENS TOKYO MILAN MADRID
PRAGUE WARSAW BUDAPEST AUCKLAND
If you purchased this book without a cover you should be aware that this book is stolen property. It was reported as unsold and destroyed to the publisher, and neither the author nor the publisher has received any payment for this stripped book.
ISBN 0-373-83601-5
FALLEN ANGELS
Copyright © 2004 by Harlequin Books S.A.
The publisher acknowledges the copyright holder of the individual works as follows:
BEGUILED
Copyright © 1999 by Lori Foster
All rights reserved. Except for use in any review, the reproduction or utilization of this work in whole or in part in any form by any electronic, mechanical or other means, now known or hereafter invented, including xerography, photocopying and recording, or in any information storage or retrieval system, is forbidden without the written permission of the publisher, Harlequin Enterprises Limited, 225 Duncan Mill Road, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 3K9.
All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author and have no relation whatsoever to anyone bearing the same name or names. They are not even distantly inspired by any individual known or unknown to the author, and all incidents are pure invention.
This edition published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A.
®and TM are trademarks of the publisher. Trademarks indicated with ® are registered in the United States Patent and Trademark Office, the Canadian Trade Marks Office and in other countries.
Visit us at www.eHarlequin.com Printed in U.S.A.
To Ashley Carter.
What a wonderful, sweet and very beautiful young lady you are.
Im so glad youre a part of our lives!
Love ya,
Lori
Contents
Harsh wind threw icy crystals of snow down the back of his neck, causing him to shiver. He raised his collar, then shoved his hands deep into the pockets of his coat, resisting the urge to touch the gravestone. The grave was all but covered in white, making everything look clean, but Dane Carter didnt buy it. Not for a minute.
Hed missed the burial by almost four months. His family was outraged, of course, but theyd never really forgiven him for past transgressions, so he figured one more didnt matter. Except to himself.
His face felt tight, more from restrained emotion than from the biting cold. The death of his twin was a harsh reality to accept, like losing the better part of himself even though he and Derek hadnt been in contact much lately. Dane had been away from the family, disconnected from the business, for quite a few years now. He deliberately took the cases from his P.I. firm that kept him out of town as much as possible. Though his office was only an hour away, hed been out of reach when his brother had needed him most.
Though everyone seemed to accept Dereks death as an accident, concerned only with keeping the news out of the media to avoid a panic with the shareholders, Dane couldnt let it rest. He wouldnt let it rest. He had a nose for intrigue, and things had begun to smell really foul. It wasnt anything he could put his finger on, just a gut feeling, but his instincts had held him in good stead as a private detective for several years nowever since hed left the family business in his brothers capable hands.
He hunkered down suddenly and stuck one hand through the snow to the frozen ground. What the hell happened, Derek? This was a lousy trick to play on me. I never wanted this, not the company, hell, not even the family most of the time. You left too damn many loose ends, brother.
The wind howled a hollow answer, and disgusted with himself, Dane drew his hand back and cupped it close to his face, warming his fingers with his breath. And what about this Angel Morris woman? I got a letter from her, you know, only she assumed youd get it. Seems she doesnt know youre gone and she wants to pick up where the two of you left off. I believe Im going to oblige her.
His mind skittered about with ramifications of deceit, but he had to cover all the bases. According to the records hed uncovered, Angel Morris had been seeing Derek on a regular basis until the takeover of her company. Derek had used information Angel gave him to make the takeover easier, and Angel had gotten fired because of it. She had plenty of reasons to despise Derek, and he certainly deserved her enmity. Yet now she wanted to see him again. After so long, he had to wonder if Angel had assumed Derek was dead, but with Danes return, she felt she had unfinished business. After all, no pronouncements had been made.
As far as the outside world was concerned, Derek Carter was still running the business. Only a select few knew of his demise. The family had thought it best if Dane filled in for a while. If he pretended to be Derek no one would start rumors about a company without a leader, or a family with a scandal. All in all, Dane wasnt sure which possibility worried his mother more. The company was her life, and the Carter name was sacred in her mind. She wouldnt want either one damaged. And if Derek had been murdered, if the accident wasnt an accident at all as Dane feared, it would certainly hit the news.
But that wasnt why Dane had agreed to come back, why he was filling in for his brother. No, he wanted the truth, no matter what. And hed damn well get it.
If Angel knew anything, if she was involved with Dereks death in any way, even peripherally, Dane would find out. He may have disassociated himself from the family, but he could be every bit as ruthless as the best of them.
Dane shook his head. Ill be seeing her first thing tomorrow, alone, away from the family as she insisted. Ill let you know how it goes. With that banal farewell, he turned and trod back through the snow to the road where his car sat idling, offering warmth, but no peace of mind.
What a laugh. Dane Carter hadnt had peace of mind since hed walked out on his family, regardless of what he told them, what he insisted to himself. Maybe Angel, if she wasnt an enemy, could prove to be a nice distraction from his present worries. His brother had always had excellent taste in women.
Angel tried to meter her breathing, to look calm, but her heart felt lodged in her throat and wouldnt budge. She hated doing this, had sworn shed never so much as speak to the man again after his last, most devastating rejection. But shed been left with little choice.
With her shoe box tucked beneath her arm and one hand on the wall, offering support, she made her way down the hall to Dereks office. She still felt awkward without her crutches, but she knew better than to show him any weaknesses at all. When she reached the open door, she straightened her shoulders, forced a smile, and tried to make her steps as smooth as possible.
Derek sat behind his desk, his chair half turned so that he could look out the window at the Saturday morning traffic. The rest of the building, except for the security guards, was empty, just as shed planned.
He was still as gorgeous, as physically compelling as ever, only now he looked a little disheveled, a little rumpled. She liked this look better than the urbane businessman he usually portrayed. The only other time shed seen him relaxed like this was right after hed made love to her.
That thought licked a path of heat from her heart to her stomach and back again, and she had to clear her throat.
His chair jerked around and his gaze pierced her, freezing her on the spot. Even her heartbeat seemed to shudder and die. Only his eyes moved as he looked her over, slowly and in excruciating detail, as if hed never seen her before and needed to commit her to memory, then their eyes metand locked.
For painstaking moments they stayed that way, and the heat, the intensity of his gaze, thawed her clear down to her toes. Her chest heaved as she tried to deal with the unexpected punch of reacting to him again. It shouldnt have happened; she didnt care anymore, wasnt awed by him now. Her infatuation had long since faded away, but seeing him with his straight brown hair hanging over his brow, his shirtsleeves rolled up, made him more human than ever. His gaze seemed brighter, golden like a fox, and she tightened her hold on the shoe box, using it to remind herself of her purpose.
She saw some indiscernible emotion cross his face, and then he stood. Angel.
His voice was low and deep. As he rounded the desk his eyes never left hers, and she felt almost ensnared. She retreated a step, which effectively halted his approach. He lifted one dark eyebrow in a look of confusion.
Idiot. She didnt want to put him off, to show him her nervousness. That would gain her nothing. She tried a smile, but he didnt react to it. Moving more slowly now, he stepped closer, watching her, waiting.
Can I take your coat?
She closed her eyes, trying to dispel the fog of emotions that swamped her. When she opened them again, she found him even closer, studying her, scrutinizing her every feature. He lifted a hand and she held her breath, but his fingers only coasted, very gently, over her cheek.
Youre cold, he said softly. Then he stepped back. Can I pour you a cup of coffee?
Angel nodded, relieved at the mundane offer. Thank you. Coffee sounds wonderful. Walking forward, she set her shoe box on the edge of the desk and slipped out of her coat, aware of his continued glances as he collected two mugs from a tray. She didnt mean to, but she said, You seem different.
He paused, then deliberately went back to his task. Oh? In what way?
With one hand resting on the shoe box, she used the other to indicate his clothes. Ive never seen you dressed so casually before. And offering to pour me coffee. Usually you
He interrupted, handing her a steaming mug. Usually I leave domestic tasks to women, I know. He shrugged, gifting her with that beautiful smile of his that could melt ice even on a day like today. But you insisted no one else be here today, so I was left to my own devices. It was either make the coffee, or do without.
Angel fidgeted. You know why I didnt want anyone else here. Your family would have asked questions if theyd seen us together.
He nodded slowly. True. Then he asked in a low curious tone, Why are you here, Angel?
Flirting had never come easy to her, but especially not these days. She smiled. Ive missed you, of course. Didnt you miss me just a little?
He stared a moment longer, then carefully set his mug aside. Most definitely, he said. He took her coffee as well, placing it beside his, then cupped her face. Strangely enough, his fingers felt rough rather than smooth, and very hot. He searched her every feature, lingering on her mouth while his thumb wreaked havoc on her bottom lip, smoothing, stroking. Show me how much you missed me, Angel.
Now this was the Derek she understood, the man who always put his own pleasures first, the man who had always physically wanted her. That hadnt changed. Without hesitation, surprised at how acceptable the prospect of kissing him seemed when all day shed been dreading it, she leaned upward. He was much taller than her, and her leg was too weak for tiptoes, so she caught him around the neck and pulled him down.
When her mouth touched his, tentative and shy, she felt his smile. She kept her eyes tightly closed, mostly because she knew he was watching her and she felt exposed, as if hed guess her game at any moment. It had been so long since shed done this, since shed kissed a man, and she was woefully out of practice and nervous to boot. If necessity hadnt driven her to it, shed have gone many more months, maybe even years, without touching a man. Especially this man.
But now she was touching him, and shamefully, to her mind, it was rather enjoyable.
Tilting her head, she parted her lips just a bit and kissed him again, more enthusiastically this time, nibbling his bottom lip between her teeth. His humor fled and he drew a deep breath through his nose. Angel?
Kiss me, Derek. Its been so long.
The errant truth of her words could be heard in the hunger of her tone, something she couldnt quite hide. His answering groan sounded of surprise, almost anger, but kiss her he did. Wow. Angel held on, stunned at the reaction in her body to the dampness, the heat of his mouth as he parted her lips more and thrust his tongue inside. His body, hard and tall and strong, pressed against hers. It had never felt this way, like a storm on the senses. Her heart rapped against her breastbone, her stomach heated, her nipples tightened, and he seemed to be aware of it all, offering soft encouragement every time she made a sound, every time she squirmed against him. She wasnt being kissed, she was being devoured.
Damn, Angel.
I know, she said, because everything was different, somehow volatile. I didnt plan on this.
He paused, his lips touching her throat, then raised his face to look at her. He said nothing, but his hand lifted and closed over her breast, causing her to suck in her breath on a soft, startled moan. Oh no. She was so sensitive, and she hadnt realized. Derek
He kissed her again, hard, cutting off her automatic protest, then backed her to the desk. His groin pressed against her, making her aware of his solid erection, of the length and heat of it. Her plans fled; there was no room in her brain for premeditated thought, not when her body suddenly felt so alive again, reacting on pure instinct. His hand smoothed over her bottom, pulling her even closer, rocking her against him. Her leg protested, but she ignored it, an easy thing to do when his scent, his strength, filled her.
How long has it been, Angel?
She clutched his shoulders, her head back, her eyes closed, as he kneaded her breast with one hand, and kept her pelvis close with the other. Surely he knew as well as she did, so she merely said, A long time.
And youve missed me? He nibbled her earlobe, then dipped his tongue inside. Why didnt you call?
Even in the sensual fog, she saw the trap. After the way you acted last time? She was astounded he would even ask such a thing!
He hesitated, then asked, How exactly did you expect me to act?
She stiffened as she pulled back. Not like you couldnt have cared less! And after the way youd betrayed my trust! You got me fired, you
Shhh. He kissed her again, lingering, and his hand started a leisurely path down her body, measuring her waist, which thankfully was slim again, then roving over her hip. Her thoughts, her anger, turned to mush. She caught her breath with each inch he advanced. His fingers curled on her thigh, bunching her skirt, then moved upward again, this time underneath, touching against her leggings. He cupped her, startling her, shocking her actually. But she didnt move and neither did he. She tried to remind herself that this was what shed hoped for, but it wasnt true. Shed stupidly hoped for so much more.
His fingers felt hot even through her clothes, but he was still, just holding her, watching her again. Why now, Angel? Why this secret arrangement?
She decided a partial truth would serve. Theres been no one but you.
And you needed a man, so it had to be me?
Yes. That was true, too. She didnt know who to trust, who to fear, so for what she needed, no one else would serve. But she hadnt planned on her own honest participation. Her body reacted independently of her mind; she felt shamed by her response to a man she should have loathed, but overriding that was some inescapable need, swamping her, causing her whole body to tremble. Maybe the pregnancy had altered her hormones or something, but shed never in her life felt like this, and it was wonderful.
She pressed her lips together and squeezed her eyes shut. Her body felt tightly strung, waiting, anticipating. She dredged up thoughts of the past, of all the reasons she had to despise him, why his touch could never matter
He seemed a bit stunned as she moaned softly and her fingers dug into his upper arms. He held her close, his own breathing harsh while his mouth moved gently on her temple. In all her imaginings, she had never envisioned this scenario, allowing him to touch her there, with her half-leaning on his damn desk, her face tucked into his throat. His heartbeat drummed madly against her own, and she grabbed his wrist to pull his hand away. Derek, no.
Her voice shook with mortification, freezing him for an instant.
Shhh. He dropped her skirt back into place and softly rocked her, soothing her. She bit her lip to keep her tears from falling, but even now she was painfully aware of his scent, his warmth. And the delicious, unexpected feelings didnt leave now that his touch was removed, they only quieted a bit.
She put one hand on his chest and lifted her face. He didnt smile, didnt ask questions. She couldnt quite look him in the eyes. Im sorry. I I dont know what came over me.
Am I complaining?
She shook her head. No, he looked pleased, but not really smug. Not as shed expected. Thats never happened before. I dont understand.
Whats never happened?
Between you and me. Usually everything was just so controlled. And uncomfortable. Ive never felt
His face darkened, and she hastened to explain. I dont mean to insult you, but Derek, you know yourself that sex between us was well, you seemed to like it okay, but I was a little disappointed. Not not that it was all your fault. Its just that I didnt it wasnt
He smoothed her hair, his jaw tight. He seemed undecided about something, and then suddenly he clasped her waist and lifted her off her feet. He sat her on the edge of the desk, roughly spreading her thighs and stepping between them in the same movement. Pain shot through her and she gasped, curling forward, her hand reaching for her leg, wanting to rub away the sharp pounding ache. Her breath had left her and her free hand curled into his biceps, gripping him painfully. Derek froze, then growled, What the hell?
Her teeth sank into her bottom lip, but God, it hurt, and with more gentleness than she knew he possessed, Derek lifted her into his arms and headed for the leather couch.
Nothing was going right. Derek, put me down.
Youre as white as a sheet. He looked down on her as he lowered her to the sofa cushions, and she flinched at the anger in his eyes. I noticed you were limping a little when you came in, but I didnt realize you were hurt.
Im not, she protested, the issue of her leg meant for another day. Really, Ill just
Youll just keep your butt put and tell me whats wrong. Is it your hip? Your leg?
Before she could answer he reached beneath her long skirt and caught at her leggings, hooking his fingers in the waistband and tugging downward. Derek!
With his hands still under her skirt, his eyes locked on hers, he said, After what we just came close to doing, youre shocked?
Flustered was more apt, and appalled and embarrassed and Derek, please. But already he had her tights pulled down to her knees. She felt horribly exposed and vulnerable. He explored her thighs, being very thorough, and it was more than she could bear. Its my lower leg, she snapped. I broke it some time back and its still a little sore on occasion. Thats all.
He stared at her, and she had the feeling he didnt believe a single word shed said. Let me get your shoes off.
She sat up and pushed at his hands. I dont want my shoes off, dammit!
At the moment, I dont care what you want. And her laced-up, ankle-high shoes came off in rapid order, then her tights. As he looked at her leg, at the angry scars still there, his jaw tightened. Damn.
Angel bristled, her only defense at being so exposed. Its ugly, I know. If it bothers you, dont look at it.
One large hand wrapped around her ankle, keeping her still, and the other carefully touched the vivid marks left behind by the break and the subsequent surgery. A compound fracture?
So youre a doctor now?
He ignored her provocation. This is where the break was, and this is where they inserted a rod. His gaze swung back up to her face, accusing.
Disgruntled, but seeing no way out of her present predicament, she said, Im fine, really. Its just that when you sat me on the desk, you jarred my leg and it well, it hurt. Its still a little tender. I only recently got off crutches.
His gaze was hot with anger. And youre running around downtown in the ice and snow today?
I wasnt running around! I came to see you.
Because you needed a man, he sneered, and her temper shot off the scales.
Damn you! Struggling upward, pulling herself away from his touch, she pointed to the shoe box still sitting on his desk. I came to bring you that. Then she added, Whether you wanted it or not.
He turned his head in the direction she indicated, but continued to kneel beside the couch. What the hell is it?
Angel came awkwardly to her feet and limped barefoot across the plush carpeted floor. She picked up the box, but then hesitated. She hadnt planned to raise hell with him, to anger him and alienate him. She had to move carefully or shed blow everything. She closed her eyes as she gathered her thoughts and calmed herself. She hadnt heard him move, but suddenly Dereks hands were on her shoulders and he turned her toward him.
What is it, Angel?
He sounded suspicious, an edge of danger in his tone. Shed always known Derek could be formidable, his will like iron, his strength unquestionable. But shed never sensed this edge of ruthlessness in him before. She shuddered.
I dont mean to shock you, Derek. And I realize you werent all that interested when I told you, but I was hoping youd feel different now.
His arms crossed over his chest and he narrowed his eyes. Interested in what?
She drew a deep breath, but it didnt help. Our baby.
Not so much as an eyelash moved on his face. He even seemed to be holding his breath.
Derek?
A baby?
She nodded, curling her toes into the thick carpet and shivering slightly, waiting.
How do you know its mine?
She reeled back, his words hitting her like a cold slap. After all shed been through, everything that had happened, not once had she suspected he might deny the child. That was low, even for him. She had to struggle to draw a breath, and once she had it, she shouted, You bastard! She swung at him, but he caught her fist and the box fell to the floor, papers and pictures scattering.
Miserable, rotten Her struggles seemed puny in comparison to his strength, but he had destroyed her last hope, delivered the ultimate blow. She wanted to hurt him as badly as shed been hurt, but he was simply too strong for her and finally she quit. He hadnt said a word. Panting, shaking from the inside out, she whispered, Let me go.
Immediately, he did. Keeping her head high, refusing to cry, to contemplate the hopelessness of the situation in the face of his doubt, she went to the couch and sat, snatching up her tights and trying to untangle them so she could get them on.
Even though she refused to look at him, she was aware of him still standing there in the middle of the floor, fixed and silent. When he squatted down to pick up the contents of the box, Angel glanced at him. His face was set, dark color high on his cheekbones. He lifted one small photo and stared at it.
All Angel wanted to do was get out. She jerked on her shoes, pulling the laces tight, fighting the tears that seemed to gather in her throat, choking her. Shed humiliated herself for no reason. Shed allowed him to touch her for no reason. He wasnt going to acknowledge the baby.
Im sorry.
She glanced up as she shrugged on her coat. Derek still crouched in the middle of the floor, a single photo in his hand, his head hanging forward.
Angel frowned. What did you say?
He slowly gathered up the rest of the things and came to his feet. I said Im sorry. The baby looks like me.
Oh, I see. Otherwise, you wouldnt have believed me. In all the time youve known me, Ive proven to be such an execrable liar, such an adept manipulator, its of course natural that you would have doubts. Well, its a good thing he doesnt have my coloring then, isnt it? Youd never know for sure.
Angel He reached a hand out toward her, and there was something in the gesture, a raw vulnerability shed never witnessed. In fact, too many things about him seemed different, some softer, many harder edged. Had something happened to him in the months since shed last seen him?
She shook her head. She would never be drawn in by him again. Those things are yours to keep. Theyre duplicates. Records, photos, a birth certificate, which if you notice, has the fathers name blank.
Why?
He sounded tortured now and she frowned, tilting her head to study him. You werent interested, Derek, though I admit I was hoping youd changed your mind by now.
Im interested, he growled.
She thought of the last time shed called him, the hell hed put her through. When we spoke on the phone, you rudely informed me you didnt want any attachments to a baby. You told me I was completely on my own, not to bother you.
He actually flinched, then closed his eyes and remained silent. But she had no pity for him, not after all that had happened. Thats not why the name is blank, though. Remember what you told me about your family? Well, I love my son, and I wont lose him to anyone, not to you, not to your damn relatives.
He looked blank and her irritation grew. Your mother is a damn dragon, determined that everyone live according to her rules. You said thats why your brother left, why he became so hard. Your family frightens me, if you want the truth. Especially your brother.
His golden eyes darkened to amber. Thats ridiculous.
You said he was the only one strong enough, independent enough to leave the company without a backward glance, to go his own way and tell the rest to go to hell. You said he was the only one who could make your mother nervous or your sister cry. You said he could do anything he set his mind to.
No one makes my mother nervous, and my sister is a younger replica of her. Nothing touches them.
Angel buttoned her coat. Youve changed your mind then, but I wont. I wont take a chance that theyll try to take him away from me. I dont want them to know about my baby.
Our He stopped and she saw his Adams apple bob as he swallowed. Our baby.
This was a point too important to skimp on. She went to him, holding his gaze no matter that he tried to stare her down. She pointed at his chest and forced the words out through stiff lips. I dont know what new paternal mode youre in, but dont try to take him from me, Derek. I swear Ill disappear so quick youll never find me or him again. I can do it. Ive made plans.
No.
She was incredulous. You cant dictate to me! Not anymore. Whatever power you held over me, you gave up months ago when you rejected my pregnancy.
He didnt shout, but his near whisper was more effective than any raised voice could be. Is that right? Then why are you here?
She had to leave, now, before she tripped herself up. She turned toward the door. Theres an address in with the papers and photos. A post office box. She slanted her gaze his way. Im sure you remember it. You can get in touch with me there.
Give me your phone number.
I dont think so. But Ill call you soon.
Youre playing some game, Angel, and I dont like it.
She had her hand on the doorknob and slowly turned. Its not a game. As she stepped through the door, she said over her shoulder, And I dont like it either. Think about the baby,
Derek, what youd like to do, and Ill call you tonight. We can talk then, after youve gotten used to the idea.
He took two quick steps toward her. What Id like to do? He frowned. You want me to marry you?
Ha! That was almost too funny for words. As she pulled the door shut, she said, I wouldnt marry you if you were the last man on earth.
And she knew hed heard her ill-advised words, because his fist thudded against the door.
Well, that hadnt gone off quite as planned. Actually, nothing like shed planned. Shed hoped to seduce him, to regain his interest. She needed his help, his protection, and that was the only way she could think to get it. Sex had been the only thing hed been interested in before, so it was what shed planned to offer him now.
Only it felt as if she was the one seduced. Damn, why did he have to have this effect on her? Her body was still warm and tingling in places shed all but forgotten about, and all because of a man she thought shed grown to hate.
A man who had never affected her so intensely before.
Damn fickle fate, and whatever magic had made Derek Carter into a man her body desired.
Dane hit the door once more for good measure, vexed with himself and the turn of events. Dammit, he hadnt meant to touch her. He had intended to get close to her, but not that close. Hed wanted to learn about her, to discover any involvement on her part, whether or not she could provide a clue to his brothers death. But hed also planned to keep his hands to himself.
Shed made that impossible.
Hed wanted her the minute hed seen her. She was lush and feminine and seemed to exude both determination and vulnerability. Hed also been stunned because Angel Morris looked nothing like the usual polished, poised businesswoman his brother tended to gravitate toward.
And then shed demanded he kiss her.
Without knowing the exact nature of her relationship with Derek, he couldnt take the chance of turning her away without raising suspicions. And at the moment, given everything that had just transpired, he needed to keep her close, not drive her away.
Hed suspected she was there for a purpose, but God, hed never considered a child.
Stalking across the office, he picked up the phone and punched in a quick series of numbers. His hand shook as he did so, and he cursed again. He could still feel the tingling heat of her on his hand, still pick up the faint hint of her scent lingering in the office. Angel might have been sexually arousedher first time with him, to hear her tell it-but he felt ready to burst, not only with lust, but with a tumultuous mix of emotions that nearly choked him.
If not for her injured leg, he had a feeling theyd have both found incredible satisfaction. Hed have taken her and she would have let him. He grunted to himself, disgusted. Making love in his brothers office, on a damn desk, with a woman he barely knew and whose motives were more than suspicious. His own motives didnt bear close scrutiny.
Sharpe here.
Be ready, Dane barked, frustrated beyond all measure. She should be leaving the building any second now. After receiving Angels note, Dane had gone through her file, learning what he could about her, which wasnt much. When hed first decided on the tail, hed been reacting on instinct, his life as a P.I. making decisions almost automatic. Now he was driven by sheer male curiosity, and the possessive need to keep what was his. She had his nephew, and that formed an iron link between them that he wouldnt allow to be severed.
Description?
All his agents were very good, but Alec Sharpe, a brooding, almost secretive man of very few words, was the best. Dane trusted him completely.
Blond, petite, probably limping a little. Wearing a long wool skirt and a dark coat.
Got it.
The line went dead and Dane sighed, putting the phone down. Alec would contact him again using the cell phone once he was sure of his lead. He figured it would take Angel at least a few minutes to maneuver out of the building. If she was parked in the lot, that would take even more time. If she hailed a cab, no telling how long hed be left waiting.
Alec knew he was still checking out the circumstances of his brothers death, but no one else did. So far hed found only enough to raise his concerns, but not enough to form any conclusions.
His brothers home had been discreetly searched, his papers riffled through. And Derek had some unaccounted time logged in his otherwise very orderly date book that made Dane think hed had meetings best left unnoted.
Dane settled himself back behind his brothers desk and began going through the papers and pictures Angel had given him. The first picture of the baby had shaken him and he stared at it again for long moments. It was a photo taken at the hospital of a tiny red-faced newborn that looked almost identical to the twin photos his mother still displayed on her desk. The shape of the head was the same, the soft thatch of dark hair, the nose. He traced the lines of the scrunched-up face and a tiny fist, then smiled, feeling a fullness in his chest.
The next picture was more recent, and the changes were amazing. As plump as a Thanksgiving turkey, the baby had round rosy cheeks, large dark blue eyes, and an intent expression of disgruntlement that reminded him of Derek. Dane wanted to hold the baby, to touch him, make sure he was real. He was a part of his brother, left behind, and Dane knew without a doubt hed protect him with his life. He hadnt even met the baby yet, but already the little fellow had found a permanent place in his heart just by existing.
Dane turned the picture over and found the words, Grayson Adam Morris. A very recent picture, only a week old. And the name, it was respectable, solid, except that it should have read Carter, not Morris. Dane intended to see to that problem as soon as possible.
There were also copies of the birth records, and the babys footprints, not much bigger than Danes nose. He made note of the hospital Angel had gone to, the name of the doctor whod attended her, and considered his next move. He shook his head, then looked impatiently at the phone. As if hed willed it, the phone rang and he jerked it up.
Yeah?
Without preamble, Alec said, Shes getting on a bus and she has a baby and some tall guy with her.
Dane went still, then shot to his feet. The baby had been here with her? Are you sure its a baby?
Bundled up in a blue blanket, cradled in the guys arms. I dont think its her groceries.
Whos the guy? Are you certain hes with her?
Tall, dark hair, sunglasses. Wearing a leather bomber jacket and worn, ragged jeans. Hes holding her arm, theyre chatting like old friends. You want me to find out?
No. His hand clenched iron-hard on the phone, and Dane decided hed figure that one out on his own. Just concentrate on the woman. You can see if he goes home with her, but other than that, ignore him.
Im on it. Ill get in touch when we reach a destination.
Again Dane hung up the phone, only this time he used a little more force than necessary. Damn her, had she been lying all along? Why would she bring the baby and a boyfriend with her when she claimed to have missed himDerek? Didnt she think that was a bit risky, considering he could have followed her out?
He seethed for almost a half hour before Alec called him back with an address. The guy with Angel had in fact gone into the same building, and the building was located in one of the less auspicious areas of town. Dane pulled on his coat and put everything back into the shoe box, tucking it beneath his arm. He couldnt risk leaving anything behind where his family might find it. He locked the office on his way out.
Angel Morris thought she knew how to deal with him, but she was judging her moves on how Derek would react. Dane wasnt a game player, never had been and never would be. His family had figured that out too late; the sooner Miss Morris figured it out, the quicker they could get things settled. He intended to explain it all to her this very day.
With Thanksgiving not too far off, many of the houses had Christmas decorations already up. All the shops he passed had their front windows filled with displays. But as he neared the address given to him by Alec, the spirit of Christmas melted away. Bright lights were replaced with boarded-up windows. Graffiti rather than green wreaths decorated the doors. None of it made any sense. Dane knew Angel had lived in a very upscale apartment complex while working for the Aeric Corporation. He knew from her file that shed lost her job there after Derek had taken information from her to assure the success of a hostile takeover. But surely she wasnt destitute. Shed made a good yearly wage.
Wary of the denizens in the area, Dane parked his car in a garage and walked the last block to Angels home. The bitter November wind cut through his clothes and made him shiver, but filled with purpose, he easily ignored the cold. When he reached the brick three-family home that matched the address Alec had given him, he gave a sigh of relief. Calling the house nice would be too generous, but it was secure and well-tended, located on a quiet dead-end street of older homes. Angel and his nephew should be relatively safe here.
At least until he moved them.
The front door wasnt barred. He entered a foyer of sorts and looked at the mailboxes. There was no listing for an Angel Morris, and he frowned. Then he saw an A. Morton and his instincts buzzed. Going on a hunch, he figured that had to be Angel. Why would she hide behind an alias, unless she had a reason to hide? He recalled his purpose in first starting this ruse. Though it was obvious she knew nothing of Dereks death, he couldnt discount the possibility that she might have helped set him up for the fall, even innocently. She certainly had plenty of reason to hate him and want him out of her life, and she professed to fear his family, so why then had she approached him today? Because she was surprised he wasnt dead? Did she have contact with an insider who had informed her of his resurrection? Very few people were privy to the fact of his and Dereks relationship.
The apartment number listed was on ground level and he went to the door, then knocked, bracing himself for the sight of her again. Shed really thrown him for a loop with her sensual response to him. And he knew in his gut her reaction hadnt been feigned. Just remembering it made his every muscle tense.
Come on in, Mick.
Dane tightened his jaw and his temper slipped. So the guy whod been with her, Mick, was welcome in any time? Did she respond as hotly with Mick as she did with him? Dane turned the doorknob and stepped inside.
Angel was lying on a sofa, her injured leg propped up on pillows. She wore only a flannel shirt and loose shorts cut down from a pair of old gray sweats. Thick socks covered her feet. She shoved herself half upright and stared at him in undiluted horror.
Dane looked at her from head to toe, and as a man he appreciated the earthy picture she presented. But hed use caution from here on out. Angel seemed to vacillate between fear and awareness. Dane decided that either way hed use her emotions against her to find out for sure what her purpose might be.
Her fair hair was tousled and spread out over the arm of the sofa. Her breasts beneath the worn flannel looked soft and full, without the casing of a bra. Her legs were very long and pale. He saw the vicious scars on her left leg, still angry and red, and his simmering temper jumped in a new direction.
He closed the door quietly and her incredible green eyes went wide and wary. Derek.
He indicated her cushioned leg. Youre hurt worse than you let on.
Color washed over her face as she started to rise from the sofa. Dane was beside her in an instant. He caught her shoulders, pressing her back down, feeling the narrow bones beneath his hands, aware of her smallness, her softness. Be still. Its obvious you overdid it today. You shouldnt have been up and around.
He perched on the sofa cushion next to her, feeling her apprehension while he examined her leg, trailing his fingers gently over her smooth skin. Just seeing the scars left behind made him wince in sympathy.
She seemed to gather herself all at once. Just what are you doing here?
Checking up on you.
How? How did you find me?
I had you followed. His gaze swung from her leg to her outraged face. Why use an alias?
Angel paled a little. What are you talking about?
Your mailbox.
Rather than answer, she tried bluffing her way with anger. Thats none of your business. And why do you care anyway?
He was good at lying when it suited him. Because I have the feeling youd never have let me get this close. But I second-guessed you, didnt I? He waggled a finger in her face, bringing back her healthy surge of angry color. I think Ill keep close tabs on you from now on.
She gasped and he added a not-too-subtle warning. You can keep your secret, Angelfor now. But when Im ready, I will know whats going on.
Her lips firmed and her look became obstinate. But beneath it all, he saw a measure of pain. Youre not completely mended yet, are you? Were you hurt anywhere else?
She gave him another stubborn frown and his attention dropped to her body. Holding her gaze, he asked quietly, Would you like me to find out for myself?
She jerked and her arms crossed protectively over her breasts. All right! I also had some bruised ribs and a few cuts and scrapesall of which are now healed.
He continued to look at her, and she turned her head away. My shoulder was dislocated, too.
Good God. What the hell happened to you?
Even before she spoke, he knew no truths would cross her beautiful lips. Amazing that he could read her so easily after only knowing her such a short time, but he could.
Her chin lifted and she said, I fell.
Down a mountainside?
Down a long flight of stairs, actually.
Keeping his hands to himself became impossible. He cupped her cheeks in both hands. Whatever had happened, it had been serious, and talking about it obviously agitated her. You could have been killed.
She started, and her eyes met his. For the briefest moment she looked so lost, he wanted to fold her close and swear to protect her. Idiot. Then she shook her head and that stubbornness was back tenfold, forcing an emotional distance between them. My leg is the only thing scarred. Nasty-looking, isnt it?
Without missing a beat, he said, You have beautiful legs. A little scarring wont change that. And it was true. Her legs were long, smooth, shapely. He imagined those long legs wrapped around him while he touched her again, only this time she would climax, holding him inside her so he could feel every small tremor, every straining muscle. He nearly groaned.
He let his hand rest lightly on her knee and moved his thoughts to safer ground. Youve no reason to be embarrassed, Angel. The scars will fade.
You think a few scars matter to me?
He did, but he wasnt dumb enough to tell her that, not when she was practically spitting with ire. She hadnt forgiven him yet for Dereks past sins, and for his own, in questioning the babys parentage. But she would. Hed see to it.
He put his hand to her cheek and noticed again the way her pulse raced, how she held her breath. Im sorry you were hurt. Then he kissed her. As angry as he was, he needed a taste of her again. She may have decided her little sampling of lust in the office was enough, but hed found only frustration. Hed barely touched her, barely begun to excite her, and shed heated up like a grand fireworks display, perilously close to exploding. He was still semihard because of it and caught between wanting to bury himself inside her, to see her go all the way, climaxing with him, and wanting to shake her into telling him what her ridiculous game was.
At first she froze, but seconds later her body pressed into his. One small hand lifted to his neck and that simple touch made him shudder. He pulled back, not wanting to test himself. Angel stared at him, wide-eyed.
Nice place, he said, hoping to distract her and himself. His gaze wandered around the sparse room, taking in the worn wallpaper and faded carpet. He didnt really mean to be facetious, but she took it that way.
You dont have to like it, Derek, since you dont live here.
He dropped his gaze back to her flushed face. With one arm above her, his body beside her, he effectively caged her in. He could tell she didnt like it; he liked it a little too much. I want to know why youre living here. What happened to your apartment?
Her eyes narrowed. I lost it.
Why?
Because I hadnt paid the rent.
He sighed. This was like pulling teeth, but she obviously wasnt going to make it easy for him. Okay, well play twenty questions. Why didnt you pay the rent?
Angel stared at him, then put one arm over her eyes and laughed. God, youre incredible. Everything is so simple for you.
Wrapping long fingers around her wrist, he carried her arm to her stomach and held it there. He felt her muscles clench. Why didnt you pay your rent?
In a burst of temper, she slapped his hand away and half raised herself to glare at him. Because I had no money, you ass! I lost my job, thanks to you, and no one else would hire me for what I was good at. After you finished, I was considered a bad risk. I tried everywhere, and in the process, ran through a lot of my savings. For a short time, I had a job as a waitress, but then I had the accident and was laid up for a while. People wont hire women on crutches, you know. My savings werent so deep that I could afford to stay in an expensive place, keep up my medical insurance, and pay additional medical bills besides, so I moved here. Satisfied?
Her shout had awakened the baby, and Dane looked toward the sound of disgruntled infant rage. Angel groaned. Now look what youve done. Well, dont just sit there, get out of my way.
Her mood shifts were almost amusing, and fascinating to watchwhen she wasnt ripping his guts out with regret for the way his brother had treated her. She started to sit up, and again he pressed her back. Ill get him.
No!
He caught her chin and turned her face up to his. Now or later, Angel, what difference does it make? I want to meet him. I promise, Ill bring him to you.
She bit her lip and her eyes were dark with wariness, but she apparently realized there would be no contest if they tried to match strength or wills. At least, not at the moment. He had the feeling, on a better day, her strength would amaze him.
Dane stared a second more, wishing there was a simpler way to reassure her, then went to fetch the baby. He followed the sounds of the cries to where Grayson was making his discontent known. When Dane entered the room he was assailed by the scent of powder and baby lotion, soft soothing scents. Graysons pudgy arms and legs churned ferociously, and with incredible care, Dane lifted him to his shoulder. The baby was soaking wet.
Cloth diapers and plastic pants were on top of a dresser, along with a few folded gowns. Dane scooped up what he thought he might need and went back to the main room and the worried mother. Angel immediately reached her arms out.
No, hes soaked, which means Im soaked. No reason for both of us to become soggy. I think if you talk me through it, I can get him changed.
Angels mouth fell open and she stared at him as if hed grown an extra nose. He smiled at her reaction.
She looked dumbfounded and utterly speechless.
I know, he said, grinning, changing diapers isnt part of my established repertoire, either. But Im efficient at adapting.
In the short time hed known her, shed thrown him off balance more times than he cared to think about; it was only fair that he get a little retaliation when and where he could.
He didnt know a hell of a lot about babies, but he figured now was as good a time as any to learn. Where should I put him to clean him up?
Finally managing to close her mouth, Angel fretted, then pointed to a table. Theres a plastic changing pad there. You can put him on that and change him.
Good enough. Dane shook out the padded plastic sheet with one hand, spread it out on the table, and carefully laid Grayson down. The baby wasnt pleased with delayed gratification, so Dane hurried. With Angels instructions, he got the baby diapered and dried and redressed, all in under five minutes which he considered a major accomplishment. Grayson had stopped squalling, but he still fussed, one fist flailing the air, occasionally getting caught in his mouth for a slurpy suck or two.
This time when Angel held out her arms, Dane handed the baby to her. The entire right side of his shirt was wet and clinging to his chest.
She looked away, pressing her face against the baby. Hes hungry.
Do you want me to get him a bottle?
No. Angel cleared her throat, then said, He breastfed. I just need a little privacy.
Oh. Oh. Dane looked at her breasts, imagined the process, and didnt want to take so much as a single step from the room. He also couldnt bear to hear the baby whimpering. Ill, uh, just go in the kitchen and try to rinse out my shirt.
You do that. And stay in there while it dries.
He leaned down and caught her chin. Her eyes opened wide on his and she drew in a deep startled breath. All right. But dont always expect me to follow orders, honey. Youre going to have to get used to me being here. Knowing he shouldnt, but unable to stop himself, he leaned down and pressed a firm kiss to her mouth. It felt damn good. He walked out while she sputtered.
He wanted to kiss her again, as a starting point, knowing where theyd finish. He wanted to show her he was no sloth in bed, contrary to her damn misconception. He wanted to find out the truth about his brothers death and her involvement with him, and he wanted to protect her and take care of her and Grayson. There were a lot of wants piling up on him too quickly and contradicting each other.
Christ, what had his brother gotten into?
He pulled off his shirt and rinsed the damp spot under running water, then wrung it out and hung it over a chair to dry. The apartment, thankfully, wasnt cold. He scratched his bare chest and looked around.
Her tiny kitchen was all but empty. The cabinets held the essentials, but not much else. With further inspection, he found the refrigerator was in similar shape. Dane frowned, then began snooping. Hell, maybe he should call her Mother Hubbard.
The conclusion he came to was not a happy one. Damn the little idiot, she should have contacted him sooner, before she got in such miserable shape. He immediately snatched that thought back because if shed tried, she would have encountered his family, and the mere thought made him queasy. She was right to fear them.
He had wondered what she was after, why shed come to him if indeed marriage wasnt her goal. Now he assumed sheer desperation had been her motive. She needed financial help, and as the babys father, he could give it. She was proud, and she claimed to have already suffered several rejections from Derek, a possibility that made Dane so angry he wanted to howl. But pride was no replacement for desperation, especially with a baby to think about. But if thats all it had been, then why hadnt she simply said so? Why come on to him, pretend she still cared?
He sat in a kitchen chair, stewing, listening to her murmur to the baby, hearing the sweet huskiness of her voice. Goose bumps rose on the back of his neck. He called out, Angel, why dont you use disposable diapers? Arent they easier?
There was a hesitation before she said, I dont like them.
Which he translated to mean they cost too much. His fingertips tapped on the tabletop, followed by his fist. Where did you take therapy for your leg? He hoped it was someplace close, so she hadnt had to travel too far.
There was mumbling that he couldnt decipher, then she said, I didnt take therapy. And what do you know about it anyway?
He stiffened. No therapy? With a lot of effort, he curbed his temper. Ive seen similar breaks. I recognize the incisions on your ankle and knee where they inserted the titanium rod. It was a hell of a break, so I know damn well therapy was suggested.
Silence. He almost growled. He did stand to pace. How long ago were you hurt, Angel, and dont you dare tell me it isnt any of my damn business!
Another pause, and a very small voice. A couple of months ago.
It took him a second, and then he was out of the kitchen, stalking back to the couch to loom over her. She took one fascinated look at his naked chest, squeaked, and pulled her flannel shirt over her exposed breast as much as possible. Graysons small fist pushed the shirt aside again. But Dane was keeping his gaze resolutely on Angels face anyway. In a soft, menacing tone, he asked, A couple of months ago, as in when the baby was born?
She gave a small nod. Grayson was early, by a little more than six weeks. The accident started my labor.
His insides twisted and he could barely force the words out. Who took care of you? He drew a breath and felt his nostrils flare. Who helped you when you were in the hospital? When you first came home?
Her gaze shifted away and she smoothed her hand over the babys head, ruffling his few glossy curls. The sound of the babys sucking was loud and voracious. There was no one, Derek, you know that. No family, no close friends. Grayson and I helped each other.
Without meaning to, without even wanting to, he looked at the baby. Graysons small mouth eagerly drew on her nipple while a tiny fist pressed to her pale breast. His eyes were closed, his small body cradled comfortably to Angels. Dane felt a lump in his throat the size of a grapefruit and had to turn away.
So hed seen her breast? So what. Hed seen plenty in his day, just never any with a baby attached. He didnt feel what he should have felt at the sight of her pale flesh, which was undiluted lust. Lust he understood, but this other thing, whatever the hell it was, he didnt like.
He snatched up his still-damp shirt and shrugged it on, then grabbed his coat. There were a lot of things he had to do today. Ill be back in a couple of hours. He looked at her, his expression severe. Make sure youre here when I get back, Angel. Do you understand?
She hugged the baby tighter, then waved a negligent hand without looking at him. Go on. Just go.
Ill be back.
She nodded, more or less pretending he was already gone. Dane didnt know what to say to her, what to think or feel. He was reaching for the doorknob when a soft knock sounded, and a second later it opened.
It was a toss-up who was more surprised, Dane, or the young man standing in front of him, his arms laden with a large pizza and a wide grin on his face.
That grin disappeared real quick, replaced by a ferocious look of menace. Who the hell are you?
Dane, at his most autocratic and not in the least threatened by the rangy youth, lifted his eyebrow and turned to Angel. I think that may be my question.
No, Angel said, keeping her voice low and managing to cover herself as Grayson fell asleep and released her breast. He was such a good baby, so sweet. She loved him so much shed gladly do anything necessary to protect him. Its not your question because its none of your business.
She quickly buttoned up her shirt. Mick automatically put the pizza on the coffee table and took the baby from her while Derek stood there, that damn imperious eyebrow raised high, and watched. Slowly, because her leg really was aching, she lifted herself into something closer to a sitting position, resting against the arm of the couch with her leg still outstretched.
Well. Derek smiled, but it wasnt a particularly nice smile, more a baring of teeth which Mick responded to with a scowl. Im not leaving until I know who he is. He sat down and stretched out his own long, strong legs, at his leisure, and waited.
Angel sighed. God, she really didnt need this. First the trip downtown, which had tired her leg terribly. Then the kiss and his naked chest Her mind was turning to mush.
Mick bristled. Just who the hell do you think you are, coming in here and demanding answers?
The babys father.
Oh. Mick straightened, blinked, then glanced at Angel. Derek had said that with so much relish, so much ridiculous pride, she was temporarily stunned herself. His complete acceptance was such a swift turnaround, she was having trouble accepting it.
It took her a moment before she nodded, giving Mick permission. She knew he wouldnt say another word without it and yet Derek wasnt likely to leave unless he got his answer. She knew how incredibly stubborn he could be. And even though he wasnt acting like himself, he could pull out his ruthlessness at any moment. She didnt want Mick caught in the cross fire.
Im Mick Dawson, a neighbor. Mick jutted his chin. And a friend.
A very good friend, Angel added, thinking of how much help Mick had been to her since shed first moved here. She surveyed Derek, lounging at his leisure, his shirt tight across his broad shoulders and his hands laced over his flat stomach. She wanted to kick him for looking so damn good. You asked who helped me. Well, once I moved here, Mick did. He picks up my groceries for me, gets my mail and paper. She waved at her leg. Until recently Ive been pretty much out of commission. Mick lives upstairs, his mother owns the building, and hes been an enormous help.
Mick started to hand her the baby back, still keeping one eye on Derek, and that seemed to galvanize Derek into action. I can take him, he said, reaching for Grayson. You should go ahead and eat.
Mick again looked at her for guidance. Dereks willingness to take part wasnt something shed counted on. It was an awkward situation, but it shouldnt have beennot if he would just act like himself. But he didnt seem to be in an accommodating mood today, which she supposed was like him after all.
Exasperation made her tone extra sharp. Really, Derek, werent you just about to leave?
He smiled. I can stay a little longer. Besides, I like holding the baby. He pressed his cheek to the top of Graysons head, and his expression caused a silly sick reaction in Angels stomach. He smells good.
Mick folded his arms and stared. So youre just now showing up? You waltz in today and pretend to be the happy father? To my mind, youre about two months too late.
Oh no. Angel tensed her muscles in dread of Dereks response. Mick
Derek nodded, cutting off Angels warning. I agree. Actually, Im close to a year late by my calculations. But Im going to be near at hand from now on. Then without missing a beat, he asked, How old did you say you were?
Mick grinned his sinister street-tough grin. I didnt. Before Derek could react, he added, But Im sixteen. And before Miss Morris makes it sound like Ive done her any big favors, shes helped me out a lot, too. Without her, I doubt Id make it out of high school.
Angel couldnt stand it when Mick did that, put himself down, especially since he was such a remarkable young man. Unfortunately, he still didnt believe her about that. Thats not true, Mick, and you know it. Youre very bright and youd have figured out that math with or without my help. She turned to Derek, for some reason anxious for him to understand. Mick works two jobs, plus school, plus he pretty much runs this place. His mother is often sick.
Mick gave Derek a solemn, measuring look. My mother is an alcoholic.
Angel closed her eyes on a wave of pain. Mick had such a chip on his shoulder with everyone but her. He asked for disdain, as if he felt it was his due, then would fight tooth and nail to prove a point. She still wasnt certain what that point might be, though.
With no visible sign of reaction, Derek looked at Mick. Angel knew Mick looked much older, much wiser than any sixteen-year-old boy should look. She also knew, deep down, he was still a kid, a little afraid at times, a lot needy given that his life had been nothing but empty turmoil. Her praise always embarrassed him, but he thrived on it. And she loved him like a little brother. If Derek said anything at all that would upset
Mick shed manage to get her sorry butt off the couch and kick him out.
But he surprised her by cradling the baby in one arm and offering Mick his hand, which Mick warily accepted. I appreciate what youve done for her. Did she move here when she was first hurt?
Yeah, not long after. Mick narrowed his eyes again, very nice dark brown eyes that she knew all the high school girls swooned over. But Mick didnt spare time for serious girlfriends. He was too busy surviving. If I hadnt been here, I dont know if shed have made it. She was pretty banged up, and Grayson was just a tiny squirt. Even getting herself something to eat was difficult, but she did it, because she had to stay healthy for Grayson. Truth is, I dont know how the hell she managed.
Dont be so melodramatic, Mick. Angel didnt want them talking about her and she didnt want Derek to view her as a helpless, pitiful victim. He seemed to be hanging on Micks every word, analyzing them and drawing his own conclusions. She didnt like the way his intense interest made her feel.
Later, after she figured out what he was up to, then shed confide her biggest worry and hopefully hed be able to take care of it. She cleared her throat. Derek, you can put Grayson in his crib if youd like. I dont want to hold you up.
He surprised her again by agreeing. After he settled Grayson, he came back in and walked over to her, giving her a gentle kiss on the forehead that made her skin tingle and her breath catch. She frowned at him, but held her tongue. When they were alone, safe from Micks protective nature, shed set him straight about his familiarity.
Derek looked at Mick. Could you walk me out?
The bottom dropped out of her stomach. What for? I think you can find your way out the door. Its straight ahead.
Derek grinned at her. Man talk, honey. Mick understands.
Its all right, Mick said to her, then followed Derek out despite her protests.
For all of two minutes, she fretted, imagining every kind of hostile confrontation. But when Mick came back in he was shaking his head and almost laughing.
What? What did he want?
A list.
She searched his face, stymied. A list of what?
Everything you might need. Her mouth fell open. He also wanted to know if there was anyplace safe around here for him to park his car since he plans to be hanging around a lot. I told him he could use the garage.
But you dont let anyone use the garage!
Yeah, but he has a really nice car. I wouldnt want it to get stripped.
She could imagine what kind of car he had: expensive. What was it about males of all ages that made them car crazy?
Mick picked up a huge slice of pizza and took a healthy bite, then went into the kitchen for plates. You want juice to drink?
Absently, her thoughts on Derek, she said, Please. She made it a habit to drink juice, since it was healthier for the baby. Real juice was her one small luxury.
They ate in near silence, and Angel was aware of the passing minutes. When she caught Mick watching her watch the clock, he grinned. Im not about to leave until he comes back. He raised hell with me because the door was unlocked when he got here.
Indignation rose, hot and fierce, crowding out her other, more conflicting emotions. He yelled at you?
No, he just told me I should be more careful. I, um, gave him your key. Hes having a couple made, so I can have one, and he can have one. That way, he said, you can keep your door locked, and you wont have to get up to let us in if youre resting your leg or feeding the baby or something.
Didnt you tell him you already had a key and that he didnt need one?
It didnt seem like a smart thing to do.
He was still grinning at her. She shook her head. Never before had she seen Mick take to another person this easily. Well, Ill tell him. If he actually does come back.
Oh, hell be back, all right. Mick tilted his head at her. Are you going to tell him whats been happening?
Not right away. I have to find out first if hes going to get involved with Grayson, if I can count on him to help without having to worry that hell sue me for custody. I cant risk having Grayson around that family. Its my bet the threats start with them. His mother, according to him, is as far removed from the grandmotherly type as a woman can get, and the stories he shared about his brother dont even bear repeating theyre so dreadful. And, she said, when Micks mouth twitched, before you start grinning again, I dont need his help with anything but protection and you know it.
He handed her another piece of pizza. For a little bitty single lady youve done okay. But you know as well as I do that things are getting worse for you. First the job, then your old apartment, then the accident. That bit with your car still makes me sick when I think of it. You cant keep up. You never get enough rest and your leg hurts all the time from overdoing it. You need to let it heal. Hell, you need therapy.
Angel had long ago quit trying to curb Micks colorful vocabulary. Now she just rolled her eyes. Im getting more papers to type up every day. Pretty soon, everything will even out.
He only shook his head. He didnt really approve of the late hours she spent transcribing papers for local businessmen and college students, but he helped her anyway by picking up the papers and dropping them off. Like her, Mick knew she had few options.
They both looked up when they heard the doorknob turn. It was locked as per Dereks instruction. He looked supremely satisfied as he used the key to get in. Much better.
Angel glared at him. Youre not keeping a key to my apartment, Derek, so forget it.
He didnt look daunted. Mick, you want to help me carry a few things in?
Sure. Mick was already on his feet, setting the half-eaten slice of pizza aside. He looked anxious, and Angel imagined he was every bit as curious as she was.
Then she remembered herself. Now wait a minute! I dont want or need anything from you! I already told you that.
Derek went out the door whistling. Mick followed him, trying to hide his smile. Angel hadnt seen him grin this often in one day since shed met him. They returned with several boxes and various brands of disposable diapers. Angel could have wept. Using cloth had been so tiring and so much added work, but the expense of disposables was out of the question.
As they carried them in, Derek explained. The woman at the store told me some kids are allergic to some kinds. You can tell me which works best and Ill pick up more of them. But this ought to hold you for now.
He set the boxes in the living room, a huge wall of them, then tiptoed into Graysons room where she couldnt see him. The apartment was tiny, only the two small bedrooms, a closet-sized bath, then the open area of the living room and kitchen, separated by half a wall which cornered the refrigerator. Angel seethed, even more so when he came back out carrying the almost filled diaper pail. Where are you taking that?
To the dumpster. He made a face, turning his nose away. I left the clean ones in there in case you wanted to use them for dust rags or something.
She started to get up, but he was already out the door again and she slumped back in frustration.
By the time he and Mick finished carrying things in, she had full cupboards, a stuffed refrigerator and freezer, a bathroom that practically overflowed with feminine products, and a sore throat from all her complaining, which Derek blithely ignored.
Not only did she now have the basics, but she had luxuries she hadnt recently been able to afford. Had Mick told Derek that she missed conditioning her hair and giving herself facials? That she missed creamy lotions and scented bath oils? Or had he figured it out on his own? She wouldnt ask. Hed simply have to take it all back; she wouldnt be bought. Material things werent what she wanted or needed from him.
Mick dropped the last large sack behind the couch and straightened. Ive got to get going. I have to be at work in fifteen minutes.
Derek came in and handed him a newly purchased ice-cold soda, holding his own in his other hand. Another luxury shed avoided. She had milk, water, tea and for health reasons, juice. The soda looked so good, her mouth watered.
Derek propped his hip on the back of the couch, close to her head, and Angel forgot about the soda to scoot away. Derek winked at her, knowing damn good and well she didnt want him that close, before turning to Mick. Where do you work?
Part of the week at the garage on the corner. The weekends at the Fancy Lady. Its a neighborhood bar. I wash dishes there.
Mick had his chin jutted out, his obstinate expression that dared Derek to make a wisecrack. Instead, Derek appeared thoughtful. Arent you too young to work in a place like that?
I look old enough. No one ever questions it.
I suppose not. Again, he stuck out his hand. I appreciate your help today, Mick.
No problem.
You know, if you ever wanted to work just one job, for decent pay, I have a friend whos looking for someone.
Mick narrowed his eyes, skeptical. Few things had ever been given to him, and when something good came along, he generally doubted it, and with good reason. Doing what?
Various things. Cleanup, phone duty, running errands. The hours are flexible, but the pays good.
Silence dragged out while Mick considered the suggestion. Finally he shrugged. Ill think about it.
Take your time. The jobs not going anywhere. Derek locked the door behind Mick after he left, then turned to Angel. He stared at her until her pulse picked up and her blood raced. Now.
Startled, she stiffened her shoulders and frowned. Now what, you you? How dare you come barging in here rearranging my life? Shed been so enthralled, listening to the male bonding taking place before her eyes, and then hed looked at her with such warmth in his gaze shed practically jumped when he spoke. Now all her grievances came swamping back. You can take all this right back out to your car, and you can hand me back my key. She thrust her hand, palm up, toward him. Right now.
Derek leaned against the door, studying her for a moment, seemingly gathering his thoughts. After a moment, he said, I like Mick. Hes a good kid.
That threw her off guard. Again. Slowly, her hand fell back to the couch. Yes, he is. I dont know what you were up to with that job offer, but if it isnt legitimate, Ill
He grinned. Youll what? No, dont answer that. The possibilities are too frightening to contemplate. He walked to her and sat down beside her on the couch, then took her hand before she could try to get up. Its a real job, certainly a better one than what hell find around here. I thought youd like to know he was working someplace safer. Hell, I could even get my friend to throw in a car with the job, to make sure hes protected when driving.
Angel was struck speechless. Between his touch and his words, she couldnt seem to draw enough breath. Such gen-erosity had never been a part of Derek, at least not a part shed seen. I dont understand you.
His thumb rubbed over her knuckles. She tried to tug her hand away, but he held firm. I know you dont, and Im sorry about that. Sorry about a lot of things. He gave her a sideways look, then sighed, the sound tinged with real regret. I hesitate to make you angry, but
Then dont.
Heres how its going to be, honey. His tone was stern, his expression determined. Youre going to keep everything Ive just given you. And youre going to use it, too. And enjoy it, I hope, but I suppose thats up to you. I know you dont like me or trust me right now, and thats okay. I understand it. But Im not just going to disappear or come visit once a month for fifteen minutes. And Im not going to sit back and ignore you when I know you need things. I can help you, and youre going to accept my help. God knows, you should have had it all along.
Angel shook her hand free, then kept it held protectively away from him. A glint of amusement brightened his eyes. She felt swamped in confusion, uncertain what to do or say next. Shed never dealt with Derek in this mood, firm but concerned and caring. It was sort of sweet. No, whoa on that thought. She would not be suckered in by him. Never again.
Glaring at him, she said, Why dont you just tell me now what youre up to and save us both some time?
What Im up to? Well, all right. Lets see. I want to help you. I want you to trust me again
Ha!
and I want to be with you. He said that last part with a small smile, and his fingertips grazed her chin. She ducked her face away. I want to be a part of Graysons life and be a father to him. I want to show you that I can be responsible and honorable and that Im not a total jerk. I want a lot of things.
She stared at him hard, unnerved. Youre an alien, right? Derek was zapped into space and you were sent to replace him? Thats the only thing Ill believe.
He laughed, but his eyes looked sad. Would you like that, if the real Derek was gone for good?
None of this, most especially his somber tone, made any sense. Angel dropped her head against the back of the couch and sighed. I never wished you any harm, Derek. Not even when I thought I hated you, when you suggested wed both be better off without the baby. I just didnt want to ever see you again.
But you invited me back into your life. I may be trying to take up more of that life than youre comfortable with, but I wont hurt you again. I promise.
Without lifting her head from the couch, she turned her face toward him. In a soft whisper, she said, Do you actually believe Id ever trust you again?
Yes. He said it without hesitation. His eyes were dark and sincere and intense, probing into her mind, trying to read her thoughts. I can get you to trust me again.
The mere possibility scared her half to death. She could never leave herself that vulnerable again; her babys well-being depended on her strength. And then what? Youll steal my baby away from me? Her chest squeezed tight with the thought and she knew her voice shook. She couldnt help it. Shed known the risks involved when she contacted him, but Mick was right. She couldnt handle things on her own anymore. The threat was there and it was real and she was afraid, not so much for herself, but for Grayson. He relied on her, and she had to protect him. Thats what mattered most.
If it was Dereks family behind the awful threats, as she suspected, he might well be the only person who could protect her.
Derek stood, giving her his back. His fists rested on his hips and he looked angry and frustrated and somehow heartsick. I
would never take him from you, he said, the words low and raspy. Id swear it to you, but I realize my promises mean nothingyet. All I want to do is help.
But you never wanted to help me before. You made it clear you wanted no part of me or the baby.
She heard him swallow, then he turned to face her. He looked angry, and almost confused, a bit desperate. I was an ass. An idiot and a bastard. Im here now, Angel. Dont shut me out.
She really had little choice in the matter. It was difficult to say the words, but he seemed so different, not at all like the man shed known. Her reactions, her feelings toward him, were different, too. He touched something inside her that the old Derek hadnt gotten close to. She supposed anyone could . change, and she knew how Grayson had affected her life, the impact hed made on her.
As if reading her mind, he whispered, Grayson hit me like a punch in the heart. A tiny little person, part of my blood. His eyes narrowed. You said it yourself. How holding him made you feel.
But 1 carried him and went through all the changes the pregnancy caused. I got sick in the mornings, stayed awake at night as he kicked, stayed tired all the time. I felt him grow and I saw him born. I saw him take his first breath, give his first cry.
You think I dont regret missing all that?
He sounded so sincere, but she just didnt know. Unless he planned to take the baby from her, she could see no reason for an emotional deception. She searched his face, but it was a futile effort; whatever he felt was well hidden. Damn, she had so few choices in this. All right.
He let out a gust of air, ran a hand through his hair, rubbed his chin, then smiled. Okay. Shew, Im glad thats settled. He looked much relieved, his shoulders no longer so tense, his eyes no longer worried. Okay. On to the next battle. I want to move you someplace else.
Angel could only stare at him in disbelief. Youre nuts. I give ground on one little thing and you want to take over!
Come on, honey, you cant like living here.
She wanted to shove his condescension back into his face until he choked on it. I most certainly do like it, she lied, knowing Mick to be the only redeeming factor of her present residence. Im close to the downtown businesses and I do transcription at home for a lot of the offices and the students. I make enough money to keep the rent paid and my health insurance active. Its convenient and I enjoy the people and Im not moving.
He pursed his mouth and studied her, then must have decided not to push his luck. Ill let that go for now.
Youll let it go forever!
Now, about therapy. Angel rolled her eyes, which didnt even slow him down. Ive known people with compound fractures. It can take months to heal with proper treatment, and youve not had that.
I have a very good doctor.
Who no doubt told you that you needed therapy.
That was true, but it had been out of the question. Not only did she not have anyone to watch Grayson, but she had no way of getting back and forth each day to the therapist and her insurance would have only covered a small percentage of the bill. She shook her head at Derek, hopeless. Its been almost two months. Its too late for therapy.
Nonsense. I know the perfect person. Ill have her come here. What would be convenient for you?
Angel rubbed her eyes. He was coming too fast and too hard, and suddenly she was tired. Hed invaded her life, her emotions. Shed had such a simple plan, and shed thought for a while it might work. Then hed held Grayson, and hed kissed her and taken off his shirt and bought her disposable diapers and lotion and she just couldnt take it all in. She didnt have it in her to continue fighting him, at least, not right now.
Derek, please. Let off a little. Youre here. Youve met your son. My apartment is stuffed with new purchases. Isnt that enough for now?
I have a lot to make up for.
She certainly wouldnt argue that point with him. Well, lets save it for another time, okay? Right now, Im exhausted. I worked really late last night finishing up some papers that were due this morning and Grayson still wakes up during the night to be fed. If youll take yourself out of here, Id like a nap.
What papers?
With barely veiled impatience, she explained once again. I transcribe files or notes for the local offices when one of the secretaries is ill, and I do term papers and such for students at the college. Im sure you remember I have top-of-the-line office equipment, even if my computer is getting a little dated.
You dont have to continue working. I can give you money.
Just like that, he expected her to become totally dependent on him. She wanted to get up and smack him, and she wanted to cry. Neither would have brought about the results she needed. Ill pretend you didnt say that.
He stood there, obviously undecided, and she waited. But he only smiled, his look rueful. Come on, Ill help you into bed.
Panic edged into her weariness. She didnt want him touching her again, getting so close. Hed kissed her, and that brief touch had unnerved her, had made her belly tingle. When hed taken off his shirt, shed almost groaned. Hed been her first lover, her only lover. And shed never found fault with his physique. Though their single night together hadnt been great, she knew a lot of the blame was due to her own uncertainty. And now, she missed so much the closeness of being with a man, not necessarily sexually, but with gentleness and concern a special friendship between two people who know theyre destined to be lovers. Or who have been lovers in the past. The intimacy was there for her, whether she despised him or not.
But despising him was no longer an issue. He was too damn different.
No thank you, she muttered, shaken by her own revelations, afraid of her own weaknesses. But true to form, he wasnt listening and had her pulled up close to his side before she could move away. With one hard muscled arm around her waist, the other holding her elbow, he practically carried her into her room. She could feel his heat, his strength, and it felt too good to be coddled, to have some of the burden lifted, even if in a superficial way.
Closing her eyes didnt help, only made her more aware of the shifting of muscle, the hardness of his body, his incredible heat and enticing scent. The man even smelted different, more welcoming, more comforting. More exciting.
Her bedroom door had been shut until now and when Derek stepped inside he paused to look around. She pulled away from him, her hands shaking, and he took her elbow to assist her to the bed. Her hobbling gait embarrassed her.
Really, Derek. How do you think I ever managed when you werent around?
Her sarcasm was wasted, judging by his frown. Ive been wondering about that myself. He lifted her legs onto the bed and pulled the sheet and blankets over her. Are you comfortable?
With him looming over her while she rested in a bed? His shoulders looked hard, his chest broad. When shed glimpsed him with his shirt off earlier, shed noticed the remains of a tan. Hed been in warm weather recently, sunning himself.
His hair hung over his forehead, soft and silky dark and a tracing of beard shadow was showing on his face. No, she was far from comfortable. Im fine.
This is a pretty room. It suits you.
The things he said seemed so strange, as if another man had taken over his body. Derek had never before commented on furniture or even noticed it as far as she could tell. Her belongings were nice, but they werent picked by an interior decorator as his had been.
Still, they were hers, and she loved them. Shed hated to spend so much of her dwindled savings on movers when shed left her old place, but shed been unable to do the work herself, had no friends to call on, and she refused to live on someone elses furniture.
Besides, the familiar objects gave her comfort, as if her entire life hadnt been reorganized by the vengeful hand of fate.
Unable to help herself, she said, The bed is new.
Oh? He looked it over, but she could tell he hadnt realized it.
I thought about burning the other one, sort of as an exorcism given the hideous memories attached to it, but that seemed wasteful in my financial predicament, regardless of the sentiments attached. She propped a pillow behind her head and smiled at him, enjoying his scowl and the two spots of hot color high on his lean cheekbones. I sold it instead. Cheap.
Like an animal of prey moving in, Derek slowly approached the bed and leaned over her, his eyes never leaving hers. He braced an arm on either side of her head and lowered his face until only inches separated them. Angel pressed back into her pillow and held her breath.
His voice was low and rough, compelling. You keep pushing me, honey, practically daring me with those big green eyes of yours.
He looked away from her eyes to her mouth, and she bit her lip. Derek
Shh. His lips brushed hers, light, teasing. I told you Id never hurt you again. You can believe it. Besides, its too soon for much, but not for this.
That was all the warning she got before his mouth settled warmly over her own, devouring. Angel gasped, clasping the soft blanket next to her hips, tightening her fists to keep from kissing him back. But it was impossible. Nothing like this had ever happened to her. Surely it hadnt been like this before or shed have remembered.
Heat exploded, radiating out to her arms and legs in tingling waves; behind her closed eyes, tiny sparks ignited. She squirmedthen felt his tongue at the same time he groaned, giving her the sound, letting her feel it deep inside herself. Wet, warm, he shifted for a better angle and she leaned up to him, anxious for more.
It seemed an eternity before the kiss ended, before Derek was slowly pulling away, taking small, nibbling, apologetic kisses along the way. He breathed hard, but when he lifted his head, there was a gentle smile on his mouth.
Angel didnt trust herself to speak.
Dont look like that, he chided.
Like like what?
Like youre afraid, and sorry. His thumb rubbed the corner of her mouth. One way or another, everything really is going to be okay.
Reality intruded. Derek, swear to me you wont tell anyone about Grayson.
Youll believe me?
Tears filled her eyes. Do I have a choice? I dont want to run again. I dont
Again?
He had her rattled, that was the only reason shed made such a slipup. Shaking her head, she said, If you tell your family about Grayson, Ill go.
His large warm hand cupped her cheek. I wont let them bother you, and I wont let you go.
She was afraid they were already bothering her, because she couldnt think of another single enemy she could have. Why they would want to hurt her, she couldnt guess. Unless they knew of Grayson and were afraid shed come to Derek for marriage. She just didnt know what lengths they might go to in order to protect their son from a woman theyd consider beneath him.
Her hands shook, as did her voice. How could you stop them if they knew? Especially your brother. She shivered, knowing her fear of the brother was out of proportion, based on Dereks dramatized bragging and her own wild imagination. But in her mind, hed become her nightmare, and she was very afraid. Out of all of them, I fear him the most.
He leaned back, watching her carefully. Angel
No! They cant know. Ever. If that seems selfish of me, I dont care. Her hands trembled, despite her tight grip, because she knew if he decided to take her baby away, he could. And she was already proving how weak she was against him. Im a good mother, Derek, I swear it.
He sighed. I never doubted it, honey. He shoved himself reluctantly from the bed and pulled a pen from his pocket. Using a notepad on the bedside table, he scribbled down some numbers. Im going to give you my number.
I already have it.
He stalled, looking harassed for a moment, then shook his head. Its hard to reach me at home these days. Here are the numbers to my cellular and my pager. You can always reach me with them. If you ever need me, for anything, call either one of these numbers.
Angel nodded, feeling foolish for her outburst. She was just so weary, so tired of being afraid. He cupped her cheek again.
Ill be back tomorrow. His gaze probed hers, demanding. Youll be here?
Yes.
Good. He leaned down and kissed her once more, a light kiss that still made her shiver. Pretty soon, youll stop looking so afraid, Angel. And youll start to trust me. I promise.
As he walked out of the room, Angel looked at the paper with his numbers. Somehow, just having someone to call made her feel safer.
She heard the front door close, the lock turn, and she dropped her head back on the pillow, closing her eyes. As she drifted off to sleep, the paper was still in her hand.
I was tailed last night, Dane said the minute Alec had taken his seat. He looked at his closest friend, waiting for his reaction.
From the womans place?
No, thank God. Later, from my house. It was dark, and I have no idea who it was, but I dont like it. I want you to set up a watch at her apartment. Something is definitely going on and I dont want her hurt.
The man who was with her yesterday?
Dane shook his head, again remembering how protective Mick had been. No, hes a kid and a blessing as far as I can tell. If it hadnt been for him, shed probably never have made it.
Alec said nothing. It was one of the things Dane liked most about him. He didnt pry. In fact, he was one of the most closemouthed bastards hed ever met.
Something about her just doesnt add up. Its like she wants Derek around, but shes forced to it. Then he shook his head again. No, thats not entirely true. Theres something therebut it sure as hell isnt trust or friendship. She initiated things, but now that Im, or rather Dereks, interested, shes trying to back off. I think she got more than she bargained for.
You want me to check into her background, the time she spent with your brother? Alecs eyes were almost black, the same as his hair, and piercingly direct. Dane knew he could find out anything he wanted. How he found things out sometimes left him curious.
No. He didnt want anyone snooping into Angels past but himself. He had no idea what clues he might uncover, but they were his business and no one elses. He didnt question his protective attitude. Hed find out what happened to his brother, but hed find it out his way, and isolate Angels involvement as much as possible. After all, she was his nephews mother; for now, that was all the excuse he needed. Ill take care of it. In fact, I have Raymond coming in today.
Alec snorted, shifting his big body uneasily in the chair. He was in his usual jeans and a flannel shirt, his hair pulled back in a ponytail. He looked like a mugger, or the typical bad guy. Dane grinned.
You dont like him either? Why?
Alec shrugged, indifferent. I dont really know him.
Dammit Alec
Something about him just doesnt sit right. You know it yourself.
Yes. I know youre also suspicious of just about everyone. Dane assumed his own dislike of Raymond was personal. He was engaged to Danes sister, Celia, and Raymond reminded him too much of his own family, ruthless, business-oriented. He probably suited Celia to a tee.
I do have some info for you.
Dane straightened, his thoughts once again in perspective. Lets have it.
Where your brothers car went off the road, theres an extra set of skid marks. Two cars were going fast that day, and two cars braked. Unfortunately, your brothers was the one that went off the berm. Alec handed him a file folder. I checked with the police on duty that day. They say thats a dangerous curve and people are always squealing their tires there, that the extra marks dont mean anything and could have been from long ago. I dont think so.
Dane took the folder, his temper heating as he pondered his brother trying to escape another car. He would find out what had happened.
Theres another thing.
Dane looked up.
Your brother had been in a local bar, not the classiest of joints, which is what drew my attention, and hed been drinking it up right before the accident. The bartender said hed met someone there, but that nothing seemed unusual about it. He didnt have a description, only that it was a male.
Dammit! Dane exploded from his seat and paced around his desk. Playing the role of his brother was wearing on his nerves. Using Dereks office, his name, made him edgy. Hed left this life behind long ago and though he hadnt moved far away, hed still managed to keep an emotional distance from it all; now he was back under the worst possible circumstances. Why are the cops blowing this off?
You know as well as I do, everyone claims your brother was acting goofy for a month. They just summed this up to stress.
Bullshit. My brother could run two companies and not be stressed. He was primed for it, raised to do it. And he thrived on it. Unlike Dane, who hated every minute of the corporate business agenda. He wondered why his mother didnt know any of this, why she hadnt pursued the truth.
Im not arguing with you.
Pressing a fist against his forehead, Dane muttered, So what does Angel have to do with all this? I dont believe she was directly connected to Dereks death, but it is possible she helped pave the way for the killer, maybe unknowingly. She could be our only lead to what really happened since she was the last person to be close with him. But why would Derek have treated her so poorly?
Alec shrugged, not forthcoming with a verbal response.
A knock on the door had both men swinging their heads around. Come in.
Raymond Stern sauntered in, his three-piece suit immaculate, his hair styled. Dane winced at the sight of him. The man, though pleasant enough, represented everything Dane disliked about the corporate world and his family. Thank you for stopping by, Raymond.
Raymond looked at Alec, a suspicious frown in place. No problem. You said you wanted to talk?
Dane nodded and reseated himself behind his desk. Alec stood. Ill be going now, unless you need something else?
Dane shoved the file folder into a drawer before answering. No. Ill be in touch with you later.
As Alec left, his eyes briefly skimming over everything and everyone in the room, Raymond asked, A crony of yours?
One of my top men.
A look of disbelief, or maybe scorn, passed over Raymonds features. Is he working on something right now? Before Dane could answer, Raymond continued. I think this P.I. business is fascinating, regardless of how your sister feels about it.
Oh? Dane cocked one eyebrow, wishing he could plant a fist in Raymonds face. And how does Celia feel?
He chuckled. That youll outgrow it. She seems to think now that youre enmeshed back in the office, youll want to stay.
There was an unasked question in his tone. Dane started to reassure the man that once he married Celia, the business would be his, with Danes blessing. In truth Dane wanted no part of it. He was already bored with the endless paperwork and the tedium of board meetings. But he decided against it. Let Raymond stew. Let him wonder if the company was part of the marriage bargain.
Celia has never liked it that I stepped out of the familys affairs.
I think its incredible that youve always been located so close, yet I never met you.
My own offices arent that far away, true, but Ive traveled a lot, especially in recent years. Some cases require constant surveillance, and that means you follow all leads, regardless of where they take you. He didnt add that he deliberately hadnt kept in touch with his family, hadnt clued them in to where he would be or for how long.
And now his brother was dead and he hadnt even made it to the funeral.
Quickly closing that particular subject in his mind, Dane went on to another. I asked you here because I know you transferred over from the Aeric Corporation.
Raymond straightened with pride. Thats right. Derek was there often once his intent was known, and he and I met. I agreed it was a natural acquisition, combining your familys interests in health products manufacturing with Aeries research capabilities. When Derek finalized everything, he asked me to join him here.
You were at the funeral?
Shaking his head, his eyes downcast in a regretful way, Raymond said, No, unfortunately I missed it, also. He looked back up, his expression resigned. I hadnt realized what happened until I reported here a week later. Derek had given me time to tie up my own loose ends and I spent two final weeks at Aeric, then took a break to sell my house and move closer. When I reported to work here is when I was told. Thats also the day I really got to know your sister. A small smile now curved his mouth.
I see.
When I asked to see Derek, I was referred to Celia. Things were still in an uproar, your mother most upset and Celia constantly on the verge of tears. They couldnt locate you and they needed everything to be kept quiet, contained. Dereks death hit them all very hard Raymond stuttered to a halt. Im sorry. I wasnt making accusations. I realize it was very difficult for you as well.
Yes. Dane knew that Raymond had shown up when the company needed him most, his past experience and lack of emotional involvement, along with Dereks written blessing, making him the ideal man to take temporary control. Every effort was made to keep the stockholders from panicking. If nothing else, he owed Raymond his gratitude for that.
But Dane deliberately kept his own dialogue brief in the hopes Raymond would say more. Trying to get information from his sister or mother had proved most provoking. Anytime he mentioned Dereks name, they would turn solemn, overwhelmed with the loss. The entire episode of the takeover of Aeric seemed very hush-hush.
Anyway, I guess you could say your sister and I hit it right off. I care deeply for her.
And deeply for the Company, but Dane kept those thoughts to himself. His sister was old enough, and certainly wise enough, to choose her own husband.
Did Derek associate on a regular basis with anyone else at Aeric?
Raymond shrugged. Most everyone on the board, the managers, the
No, I mean in a social way.
Well, there was the woman, secretary to the R&D department.
Research and Development. Dane already knew what Angels position had been. Somehow, Derek had gotten information from her that had enabled him to take over the company.
And then hed dropped Angel cold.
Were they close?
Raymond shrugged, looking thoughtful. Everyone thought so. Shed never dated much, and then suddenly she had a steady date. At that time, no one realized Derek was after the company. But I suppose it should have been more obvious that he was using her. She was a mousy sort of person, not real talkative, withdrawn, but apparently good at her job. Good enough that the head of R&D often sent her top-secret information through a P.O. box to work on at home.
A post office box? Thats unusual. Derek remembered the address Angel had given him, not a home address, but the anonymity of a post office.
Raymond shrugged. Her supervisor was from the old school and didnt trust the company computers, swearing too many secrets had been stolen. But he trusted the wrong person. Angel got the last of the information, a huge breakthrough worth top dollar that would have offset the takeover attempt, and she gave it to Derek. Of course, we found all this out after Derek dropped her. He laughed. She got fired real quick. Most everyone else was able to keep their jobs.
I see.
Why do you ask? Raymond straightened. Shes not here asking for a job, is she?
Raymond looked appalled by the possibility. No, of course not. I just wondered if I could get in touch with her, to talk to her about Derek.
Why? Raymonds eyes narrowed and he shifted forward. Whats going on?
Keeping his tone smooth and nearly bored, Dane said, Not a thing. Its just that I hadnt seen my brother for some time. Id like to talk to the people who knew him. Raymond relaxed and Dane asked, What happened to her, do you know?
Dane had to keep his hands beneath the desk. His fingers had curled into fists as Raymond spoke and he imagined Angels humiliation, her hurt. He didnt like feeling so much anger toward a dead man, especially when that man was his twin. The conflicting emotions ate away at his control.
I have no idea. I havent seen her since I left Aeric. And Derek broke things off with her during a board meeting, for everyone to see. He asked her to sit in on the meeting, then deliberately told everyone where hed gotten his information. That pretty much proved she couldnt be trusted in the company.
Good God. Sick dread churned in the bottom of his stomach.
Raymond laughed. Yeah, she was stunned to say the least. But maybe it taught her a lesson about keeping business dealings private. As Im sure you already know, even though you havent been involved in some time, theres no room for deceit in the corporate world. You absolutely have to be able to trust your employees. Especially when theyre in the position she was in.
Dane could barely see, he was so angry. The rage ran through him, red-hot, and he wanted only to get to Angel, to apologize, to He stood abruptly, coming around his desk with stalking steps. He went to the coat tree and grabbed up his coat. Raymond quickly stood to face him.
It took two deep breaths before Dane could trust himself to speak without breaking Raymonds nose. This was exactly why he hated the business, why he had to separate himself from his family. Ruthless barracudas, all of them, with no thought for humanity or dignity. It sickened him.
Raymond looked at him warily. Is that all you wanted?
Yes, thank you. He couldnt bear to shake the mans hand. He turned toward the door instead and opened it. I appreciate your help, Raymond. Unfortunately, I have an appointment at my own offices shortly, so Ill need to ask you to go.
Yes, of course. He hesitated. You know, Derek and I were somewhat better than associates before he died. If youd ever like to talk about him, to know about him, Id be glad to tell you what I can.
Danes smile actually hurt, but he managed it. Thank you. Ill keep it in mind.
Will you be at dinner tonight?
Damn, hed forgotten his mother planned a family gathering. He had hoped to eat with Angel, to get to know her better. Probably, he conceded, knowing his mother would demand a valid reason for missing the meal. It was to be a formal dinner in preparation for his sisters marriage, where the duties of the company would be discussed.
I know its difficult for you, stepping in here and keeping your own business afloat. If I can help in any way
Ill keep that in mind. Thank you.
Raymond finally left with a lagging step, looking as if he had more to say but was reluctant to press. Dane knew he sensed where the present power lay, but that was just a fabrication of his mothers fancy. He didnt want the damn company. In fact, he would only stay in charge as long as was necessary to find out what had happened to Derek, to uncover the truth.
And to get things settled with Angel.
Angel slowly hung up the phone, her fingers tight on the receiver to keep her hand from shaking. Why wouldnt it stop? Shed never hurt anyone, she held no power. There was absolutely no reason for someone to harass her.
For one insane moment, she wanted to call Derek, but she quickly quelled that absurd thought. She wouldnt rely on him, ever again. For all she knew, he could be behind all this. That thought made her stomach queasy.
Moving slowly, she made her way to the bathroom and splashed water on her hot face, then leaned against the counter and took deep breaths.
When the knock sounded on her front door only seconds later, she jumped, her hand going to her throat. The apartment was quiet, Grayson sleeping soundly in his crib. It couldnt be Mick because he had left for school hours before after dropping off more papers to be typed, and no one ever called on her other than him. Derek would surely be at work and
The knock sounded again, this time a little harder and she feared Grayson would wake. She hurried to the door, hesitated just a moment, then called out, Who is it?
Ah, she heard in deep, satisfied tones, much better than just letting anyone in. I see youre learning.
Derek? She turned the dead bolt and unlocked the door, swinging it open. I always lock my door, except when Im expecting Mick. She looked him over, the casual way he leaned against the doorjamb, his open-neck shirt, so unusual for him. What are you doing here this time of day?
His gaze went over her from head to toe. She wore a long caftan of muted gray-and-blue plaid. It was old and worn and the material draped her body softly. It unzipped down the front, making it easy for her to feed Grayson. Right now, the zipper was just low enough to show her cleavage and assure Derek that her breasts were unrestrained by a bra. Typically of late, her feet were bare; since injuring her leg, she seldom bothered with shoes at home.
A long low whistle filled the air between them and Angel felt herself blushing. Self-consciously, she tried to smooth her hair which hung loose, but when she realized what she was doing she dropped her hand and scowled. Arent you supposed to be at work?
Yeah, but I missed you so Im here instead.
Before she could move, or even guess what he would do, he leaned forward and kissed her. The touch of his mouth was warm and soft and fleeting, leaving her stunned. Then Derek pushed in past her, taking his welcome for granted. The door closed with a snap.
Dont do things like that.
Why not? You like it, and I can guarantee I love it.
She felt her temper rise and he quickly held up both hands. Okay, okay. You dont like it. Youre entirely repulsed.
Derek
What? He smiled at her, a beautiful smile and she looked away. I really do enjoy it, sweetheart. And I honestly did miss you. He stepped closer to her once again, his gaze bright and probing. You didnt mind yesterday in my office. You asked me to kiss you then.
Angel drew a blank. He was right, she had pushed the issue. But that was when shed thought he might not be interested, when shed thought hed need motivation.
For a single moment she wondered if he was toying with her, but his expression was enigmatic, impossible to read. This is a bad time, she said, suspicious and determined to resist his classic charm. I have tons of things to do.
I can help.
Derek
He came close to laughing, but swallowed it down. Okay, Im sorry. Im pushing again. But damn, I have so much to make up for and Im anxious to get started.
Nonplussed, she moved past him, removed a large basket of laundry still needing to be folded, and sat on the couch. The past is the past, Derek. You cant erase it, and since you havent contacted me in all this time, I have to assume it didnt matter much to you until now.
Youre surprised at my easy acceptance of things?
More than surprised. She was amazed.
His hands were deep in his trouser pockets, his coat pushed back, and he rocked on his heels as if in thought. Finally, his head down, he sat beside her. Silence hung heavy in the air. He turned to her. Im sorry. He shrugged his wide shoulders, his expression earnest. I have no excuse, nothing, to explain why I was such a bastard. I wish I did, I wish I could pull up some believable tale to help smooth things over, to take away some of the hurt. But what I did to you was unforgivable. I know that. Still, I want you to forgive me. Dumbfounded by this outpouring of emotion, she allowed him to take her hand, holding it when she would have pulled away. Do you think you can?
When she merely frowned, he added, For Graysons sake?
Angel stared at him, so many things hed said clogging in her brain. He wanted forgiveness, even though he admitted there was no excuse for his behavior? And to use the babys welfare against her but that was her biggest concern, her reason for contacting him in the first place.
Only he didnt act the way shed expected, as shed planned for. Shed expected grudging help in calling off his family if indeed they were behind the threats. She didnt even want to contemplate the possibility of another enemy.
She wanted only to live in peace, to be able to take care of herself and her son without fear of danger.
His hand was large and warm and again she noticed the roughness, which had never been there before. To buy herself some time, she said, What have you been doing? She turned his palm over and looked at it. You have calluses.
He blinked at her, then looked down at his hand. With a twisted grin, he said, Chopping wood, if you can believe that.
It might be difficult.
I know. Im not normally the physical type.
She shook her head. No, youre in shape, always have been. But from a gym, not from physical labor.
She continued to look at his hand and he raised it to her cheek, curling his fingers around her jaw and lifting so that her gaze met his. His eyes were bright, intent. Im glad you noticed, but it doesnt matter. Will you try to forgive me?
His voice had been so soft, so cajoling. She hated herself for wanting to believe in him again, for wanting so many ridiculous things. But shed been so alone for so long now. Her mind scurried for some response, some way of making him back off.
We could start over, he said. Im different now, everything will be different. If I start to backslide and I disappoint you or Grayson, then you can toss me out.
At her skeptical look, he made a cross on his chest. I promise. The decision is yours. Youre right about my family, they wouldnt make good relatives at this point for Grayson and theyd likely make your life a living hell.
If Angel was right, they were already making her life hell and determined that it get much worse. But she kept the words unsaid for now.
Derek smiled. And since I plan to be involved, that means theyd make me miserable as well. They dont need to know anything about Grayson, or about you for that matter. At least, not until youre ready.
As she opened her mouth, he interjected, If youre ever ready.
She had no defense against his optimism, his good humor. It was beyond her to remain disgruntled when he was being all shed ever hoped forfor Graysons sake. All right.
His grin was wide and sexy and suggestive. Thank you. Damn, but you know how to keep a man on pins and needles. I hope this is the last time you test me, because my heart cant take it.
She snorted, not ready to believe his heart was involved. Then to her disbelieving eyes, he set the laundry basket between them and began folding baby blankets. Angel stared.
Shocked you, have I? Well, good. God knows youve done me in enough times lately. He lifted a small gown, struggled with it for a moment, then handed it to her. I think Ill leave the more complicated garments to you, and stick to the blankets and His voice trailed off as he lifted a pair of panties from the basket. They were pink and satiny and her blush was so hot, she knew her face had to be bright red. She snatched them from his hand.
Not a single word out of you or you can go.
Im mum, He continued to fold, now in silence, but she could see his devilish smile.
He was so very different, so unlike the Derek she knew, the man she couldnt forgive or ever care about, not with the way hed turned on her. This Derek was considerate and warm and somehow, more of a man because of it. In the past, shed been drawn to his confidence, his good looks and his sophistication. Shed been overwhelmed by his attention, so flattered she hadnt been able to think straight. Then hed abruptly discredited her in every way possible.
They worked in near silence, other than Derek humming, until all the laundry was done and put away. After Angel had placed her unmentionables in her dresser, leaving Derek to put up the babys things, she found him standing over Graysons crib, just watching the baby sleep. When she crept in to stand beside him, it somehow felt right to be there together, sharing the sheer joy of seeing the baby, hearing his soft breathing. When Grayson made a grumbling squeak in his sleep, Derek smiled, a small, proud smile that touched Angels heart and made her feel too warm and full inside. She turned around and walked out.
Shed barely reached the kitchen before she felt Dereks hand heavy on her shoulder. Her pulse raced, her breathing quickened. Slowly he turned her, and he whispered, Angel, his tone low and husky and affected by some emotion she couldnt name but understood. Even before she met his gaze, she knew he was going to kiss her. She tried to tell herself it was necessary, that she had to keep him interested to have his help, but she knew she was lying. She wanted his kiss.
And he didnt disappoint her. This was no casual peck as hed given her when he first arrived. No, this time his mouth devoured hers, without hesitation, hot and hungry, his tongue immediately sliding inside while his hands held her face and kept her close.
Just that, nothing more. He didnt touch her anywhere else, didnt put his arms around her or pull her body into full contact with his. She could feel his heat, crossing the inches that separated them, and she wanted to be closer. But lovemaking was new to her and she wasnt sure how to initiate anything, or if she even wanted to.
Derek slanted his head, his breathing harsh in her ear, and a low groan came from deep in his throat. In the next instant, he pulled his mouth away and pushed her head to his shoulder. This is crazy. I cant believe how you affect me.
Angel didnt know what to say to that. Crazy? It surely felt odd, but in a wonderful, miraculous way. Her hands were caught between them and she could feel his heartbeat, fierce and fast. Why is it different this time? she asked aloud, and all the confusion she felt could be heard in her tone.
Derek laughed, then groaned and squeezed her tight, finally pulling their bodies close together. Because it just is, because Im different.
He pushed her back so he could see her face and smiled at her. Id like to take you to lunch.
The topic had changed so suddenly Angel was caught off guard. I I cant go anywhere. Grayson
Well take him with us.
She shook her head, not even considering the possibility of them being seen in public together with the baby. No, I already ate. She pondered all that had happened, all hed done so far, then suggested, Why dont you come here for dinner instead. She felt ridiculous, making such an offer, extending the verbal olive branch. But they did need to get reacquainted; she needed to decide if and how much she could trust him. She drew a deep breath and plunged onward. I can cook us something.
He searched her face, and his continued silence made her wish she could withdraw her offer. Then he shook his head. Damn, Id like that. I swear I would. I cant imagine a better way to spend my evening.
But?
He released her and turned away. My mother has this damn dinner planned. He waved a hand, essaying his feelings on the affair. My sister is getting married soon and its a sort of celebration dinner. All family is expected to attend.
I see.
He ran a distracted hand over his face, then laughed. I doubt you do. But at any rate, 1 appreciate the offer. Will you give me a rain check?
Yes, of course.
He looked at her, into her, and she shivered. His hand came up to cup her cheek. Aw, Angel, you do know how to drive a man crazy.
She didnt know what he meant by that, so she ignored it. If youre hungry now, I could make you a sandwich.
Like a starving man, he grabbed up her offer. Thank you. Anything is fine. And while I eat, will you tell me more about Grayson, about yourself?
That seemed like an odd request. As she pulled lunch meat out of the refrigerator, she glanced at him curiously and said, You know everything there is to know about me.
Not true. Tell me about the pregnancy, when you found out
Slowly, feeling as if shed been doused in ice water, Angel turned back to him. She dropped a package of cheese onto the table with a thunk. It was cheese he had bought, so she knew he must like it. About the pregnancy. Now why would you want details on that?
Wary now, he shrugged and said, Im just curious.
I see. Are you trying to verify that Grayson really is yours? Is that why you were so awful when I first called to tell you I was pregnant? You thought I was lying about you being the father?
Of course not!
You doubted me in your office. You had the nerve to ask me if I was certain.
His face tightened, his mouth grim. It was a legitimate question, Angel. He faltered, looking tormented. I just wasnt expecting you to
Legitimate? When you were the only man Id ever been with?
There was a heartbeat of silence. Ever? His eyebrows rose in incredulous disbelief.
She slapped down a knife on the table. So you thought once you humiliated me, once youd used me, I would just willingly jump in bed with another man? You thought I found my one experience with sex so titillating I had to race out for more, and since you werent available, Id take any man who was?
As she spoke, her voice rose almost to a shout, but it all came back on her, all the pain and mortification. She laughed, but it wasnt a happy sound. Derek sat staring at her, his expression almost comically blank.
Well, he wasnt used to hearing her yell. Shed always been meek and agreeable with him, so much so shed made his objective pathetically easy. Hed overwhelmed her with his bigger-than-life persona, but not anymore. Now shed changed, thanks to the way hed screwed up her life. And he had changed as well.
Believe me, Derek, you were the only one. And once with you was more than enough.
It was her sneering tone, meant to show him her loathing, only it didnt work.
Shed started to tremble and Derek was suddenly there, his arms around her, his lips against her temple. Shh, baby, Im sorry. So sorry.
Just go back to work, Derek. Leave me alone.
I cant do that. He leaned back, keeping her pelvis pressed to his, but putting space between their upper bodies.
You dont want me to do that. For whatever reason, Angel, you contacted me.
She opened her mouth, but she couldnt think of a single thing to say.
Shh. Its all right. You dont have to tell me now. Ill wait until youre ready.
That he suspected her of having ulterior motives should have alarmed her, but she was just too tired to fight with him. And since she desperately needed his concession, she nodded, relief making her slump against him.
I was an idiot in the office yesterday. Of course I know you havent been with anyone else. Sometimes men just say stupid things. He seemed to be floundering for the right words as his hands coasted up and down her back, soothing. We wont mention that again, okay?
Reluctantly, she nodded.
Good. He stepped back, but rather than sit at the table again, he began compiling his own sandwich. I do want to hear everythingno matter how insignificantthats happened to you since weve been apart. He gave her a sharp, assessing glance. I have a lot of catching up to do. All right?
Yes. The distraction of simple conversation would help her regain her balance. She didnt want to confide in him yet, not until she knew she could trust him with Graysons safety. Yes, Ill tell you everything.
He stayed longer than she would have guessed, and he asked more questions than she could answer. When Grayson awoke, Derek changed the baby, cuddled him for long moments, and when Grayson demanded to be fed, he finally took his leave. But he promised to come back the next day.
And though she was annoyed with herself, Angel already looked forward to his next visit.
Dinner seemed to last forever. All Dane wanted to do was go home and ponder Angels revelation. Shed been a virgin. God, he still felt stunned. And entirely too aroused.
From what shed told him, shed only been with Derek once, and that had been a disappointment.
Possessive heat filled him. She hadnt really belonged to Derek, not the way a woman should, not the way she would belong to him. Guilt plagued him as he considered making her his own while knowing Derek had been her first and only. But with every minute that passed, he felt more determined to tie himself to her. There were numerous reasons, none of them overly honest, but still, they served his purpose.
He adored Grayson, already loving him as if he were his own. Dane had never thought to fit the bill of fatherhis chance had been lost to him so long ago. But it was precisely because his chance had been lost, and why, that he wanted to protect Grayson. Angel was right to fear his family; they would take over without giving her a single chance if he let them. But her fear also seemed exaggerated and somewhat pointless. Sooner or later theyd find out about the baby. It was inevitable.
He planned to be there when they did, to soothe her fears.
Angel also deserved his protection, and the luxury the Carter name could supply. Whatever else Derek had become, hed still been a wealthy man. Grayson had a birthright that would pave much of his way in the world. Derek should have seen that Grayson received his due; for reasons of his own, he hadnt, and Dane was determined to correct the oversight.
He also still believed Angel to be the most likely link in discovering what had happened to his brother. So far, nothing seemed to fit. Derek was capable of some pretty ruthless behavior, but the way hed treated Angel seemed out of character even for him. Much of the cruelty had been deliberate and unnecessary. Why had Derek done it? And what was the real reason Angel had contacted him again, despite the damn past they shared? There were secrets there, things he had to discover, and that too, was a good reason to stay in touch with Miss Angel Morris.
The biggest reason of all, of course, was the chemistry between them. When he touched Angel, all his senses exploded like never before. And not even the memory of her and Dereks past experiences could dampen her responses; it was driving him insane.
Damn his brother for complicating things so, for hurting her. And most of all for letting himself get killed. What had Derek been up to?
Dane?
Startled out of his ruminations, Dane looked up to see his mother frowning fiercely across the table at him. She did it well, he thought as he speared a bite of asparagus and chewed slowly. Her look was so forbidding that most people immediately apologized even before they knew what theyd done wrong. At sixty, she was still a slim, attractive woman with her light-brown hair stylishly twisted behind her head, and her brown eyes sharp with intelligence. She kept herself in top physical shape; her pride would tolerate no less.
Dane stifled a bored yawn. Hed quit playing his mothers games long ago. Did you want something, Mother?
She pinched her mouth together at his lack of manners and deference due her. Where in the world is your attention? You havent been following the conversation at all.
Celia smiled toward him. Do you have a big investigation thats got you stumped, brother?
He sent her a chiding glance. Celia had been teasing him about being a P.I. since hed walked in the door. Shed had the gall to ask him if he carried a spy kit. His sister seemed different than he remembered, more lighthearted, more playful. He liked the changes.
To his surprise, Raymond blurted, You arent still wondering about the Morris woman, are you?
His mother straightened to attention, jumping on the topic like a dog on a meaty bone. She had plans for Dane, he knew. Shed sat him at the head of the tablea major concession for her, and an indication of what she expected from him in the future. She wouldnt want any threats to her plans, and his interest in anyone or anything other than the company would certainly be considered a threat.
He hadnt yet told her of his intentions, or rather lack thereof, toward the family and the company. He wanted everything settled first before he dropped his news on her.
Whats this, Dane? Her face was alarmingly pale, her eyes flashing. Whats Raymond talking about?
Nothing of any import, Mother. I merely asked Raymond a few questions about Angel Morris. I was curious since Derek had been seeing the woman for a while.
Celia turned quiet and gave her attention to her food. His mother wasnt so reserved. Her hands fisted on the table, yet she managed to keep her tone calm. He wasnt seeing her, for heavens sake. He merely associated with her to ease the effort of the takeover. She was a secretary of sorts, no one important. Certainly no one important to Derek.
Forcefully keeping his emotions in check, feigning a certain lack of interest, Dane asked, Do you know what happened to her?
His mother carefully laid aside her fork, then looked down her nose at him. She sat to his right, Celia and Raymond to his left.
After she was terminated, you mean? Why would I care?
She made a rude sound of condescension. You certainly didnt expect us to employ the woman, did you, not after she gave away company secrets.
Celia spoke up for the first time, her voice clipped, her expression stern. I already told you, Mother, Derek stole that information from her.
Dane felt as though hed taken a punch on the chin. His mother made an outraged sound and Raymond sat watching them both, his expression somewhat satisfied. He stared at his sister and saw that two spots of bright color had bloomed on her cheeks. What did you say?
Celia gave her mother a lingering frown, then turned to face Dane. Mother persists in making this woman out as a villain, even though Ive told her repeatedly that it isnt so. If anything, she was a victim, and we certainly should have employed her in an effort to make amends. Derek explained to me himself that Angel hadnt volunteered the information to him. He rifled through her personal belongings until he found what he wanted.
Raymond held his fork aloft, using it to emphasize his point. Ah. But she should have seen to it that the material was well secured. That was her responsibility. The heads at Aeric trusted her, and she let them down.
I suppose part of the blame is hers, Celia agreed, her tone snide, in trusting Derek too much, in thinking him honorable toward her
Danes mother gasped, coming to her feet in furious indignation. Her hands slapped down on the cloth-covered tabletop while her voice rose to a near shriek. How dare you suggest otherwise, Celia Carter? He was your brother!
Looking belligerent and stubborn, Celia forced a shrug and met her mothers gaze. Mother, he stole that information from her. He led her on, made her believe he cared for her, and then took shameful advantage. Would you rather I call that honorable?
Raymond patted Celias hand. Sweetheart, he only did what was best for the company. That was always his first priority. His eyes slid over to Dane. As is true of any CEO.
Dane waited, watching while his mother visibly struggled to regain her control. Such an outburst from her surprised him and piqued his curiosity. When she had grudgingly reseated herself, pretending to be appeased by Raymonds words, and Raymond had taken a healthy bite of his braised pork, Dane asked, Are you saying, Raymond, that you wouldnt have a problem with using a woman that way?
Raymond promptly choked, covering his mouth with his napkin.
Really, Dane, enough of this nonsense! his mother protested. Raymond has been an enormous help to us and deserves better from you.
Celia looked at Dane, a wicked smile of appreciation curving her lips, then proceeded to pound her fiance on the back until hed managed to catch his breath. Dane leaned back in his chair, enjoying the dinner for the first time that evening.
Damn, so much to think about. So Angel was innocent all the way around. That fact twisted his guts, making him feel guilty as hell, as if he were the one whod betrayed her. He determined to make it up to her somehow. Whether she wanted him to or not.
An hour later as they all gathered in the salon for drinks and conversation, Dane cornered his sister. Raymond was busy schmoozing their mother, and Celia was blessedly alone, staring out a window at the dark night. As he approached, she looked down at his hand and the drink he held.
I thought you abstained.
He lifted the glass in a salute. Pure cola and ice. Nothing more.
It irritates Mother, you know. That you wont have a social drink.
Dane thought of Mick, so defiant as he explained his mother was an alcoholic. In my line of work, I see too many drink-related cases. Men and women who abandon their families in favor of a bottle. They all started out as social drinkers. Shaking off his sudden tension, he smiled at Celia. Besides, I enjoy irritating Mother.
To his surprise, his teasing wasnt returned. Celia turned fully to face him. How do you do it, Dane? How do you just turn your back on everything, on all of us?
A frontal attack. He hadnt expected it of his sister, but he relished a moment to clear the air. Hed missed her in the time hed been away. Though she was a lot like his mother, her strength and determination not to be underestimated, she was also a woman who thought for herself, who didnt blindly accept his mothers dictates. Hed found that out tonight. In the years hed stayed away, his sister had evidently come into her own.
Too long, too damn long. Theres nothing for me to stay here for, Celia. You know that. Mother made certain she drove me away
Shes sorry for that, Dane. Celia touched his arm. Her eyes, the same hazel shade as his, were dark with concern. She realizes now that you really did love Anna, that she shouldnt have interfered.
He snorted. Is that what you call it, interference? She deliberately destroyed my life, accused my fiancee of all kinds of reprehensible things, and just because she didnt approve of Annas family.
Celia bit her lip, then forged on. You were both so young. Besides, she did take the money, Dane. Mother didnt force it on her.
She made Anna feel as if that were the only option, as if she couldnt possibly be my wife. Mother made sure she knew shed never fit in. Even as he said the words, he accepted that he wasnt being a hundred percent truthful with her or himself. Anna was pregnant, you know. After she ran off, she lost the baby. My baby.
Celia covered her mouth with a hand. Oh no, I didnt know. Im so sorry.
I told Mother. I was angry and hurt and I wanted her to understand exactly what her manipulation had cost me. Do you know what she said?
Numbly, Celia shook her head.
She said it was for the best.
Celia lowered her forehead to Danes shoulder and her voice was quiet, almost a whisper. Mothers set in her ways, Dane. She means well, and she really does love you. Its just that sometimes she doesnt think.
He had nothing to say to that. It amazed him that his sister would always try to defend their mother, no matter what she did.
Will you stay on at the company this time? We need you here.
Lifting a hand to his sisters fair hair, giving one silky lock a teasing tug, he said, You already know the answer to that.
She sighed. I suppose I do. But I was hopeful.
Its not for me, sis. I dont feel comfortable there and besides, I love playing detective too much to give it up.
She smiled at his teasing, then turned to face the window again. I miss him so much.
Me, too. Even though we hadnt been in contact much lately, I always knew he was here. There were only miles separating us, and I knew we could get in touch if we chose to. Dane wanted to tell her that he suspected Derek had been murdered, but he held back. His sister had enough on her plate for the moment. Im proud of how you stood up to Mother.
She made a disgusted sound. Shes hurting. And it angers her if anyone even suggests Derek might not have been perfect. But I cant sit by and watch her persecute an innocent woman.
Dane thought his sister was pretty damn special at that moment, and more than ever, he regretted the amount of time hed let pass without seeing his family.
How long are you willing to help out?
Until I see things settled, he thought, but he only shrugged. I dont know. Well see. Right now, I have every agent in my own business maxed out, working on two or more cases at a time. And running between offices isnt getting any easier. Especially while trying to uncover a murderer.
He looked up at that moment to see Raymond watching him while his mother chatted in Raymonds ear, no doubt regaling him with stories of old acquaintances, money and power. It was all his mother knew, all she cared about, and Raymond, with his desire to ingratiate himself, provided the perfect audience. Dane nodded then looked away. Do you love him?
Celia laughed. You say that as if such a thing is unimaginable.
I just want you to be happy.
Id be happy if you stayed on. She quickly raised her hands. But I understand why you cant. Dane, why were you asking questions about Angel Morris?
She effectively sidetracked him and he rubbed his chin, wondering what to tell her. Finally he said, I suppose it just surprises me what Derek did. I dont like to think him capable of such things. Can you even begin to imagine what Angel Morris must have felt like?
Celia leaned into him, their shoulders touching. If its any consolation, I think he regretted it. He was very distracted those last few weeks. And unhappy. He told me once that Angel would never forgive him, and that he didnt blame her. It was almost like hed had to hurt her, though I never understood why. I planned to ask him, to understand, but then he died.
Dane didnt understand either, but he felt better for having talked with his sister. His mother he simply hoped to avoid so she couldnt try to nail him down on his intentions. He didnt want anyone to know his plans until hed figured everything out. At this point, he wasnt certain who to trust, so he trusted no one.
Not even Angel. The more he learned, the more reason he had to wonder why shed ever contacted Derek again in the first place. She had to hate him for all hed done to her. But, his thinking continued, Derek had also given her Grayson, and the baby appeared to be the most important thing in her life. Maybe for that reason alone, shed been able to give up on some of her anger and resentment. Maybe shed come to the very reasonable conclusion that Grayson deserved a father and all that Derek could provide. It could be only misplaced pride that still made her insist she wanted nothing from him. Heaven knew, hed had a hard enough time making her accept the essentials, food and diapers and damn shampoo. She also had plenty of reason to hang on to that pride, given the way shed been treated.
As Raymond and Mrs. Carter joined them, Raymond smoothly slipped his arm around Celia and gave her an affectionate peck on the cheek. Watching them, Dane pondered the idea of starting over. Ever since Anna had abandoned him, allowing his mother to buy her off, hed avoided relationships. He hadnt met a woman hed wanted to see more than twice.
Anna hadnt trusted him, had believed his mothers tales over the truths hed given her. Hed never admit it to anyone, but Annas actions had proved his mother right; she wasnt the woman for him. He expected, needed, a woman to give him everything, not merely her trust, but her unwavering loyalty. Her soul. Anna hadnt been able to do that, and while he still regretted the loss, it was more the manipulation that he resented. Hed long since gotten over his first love. It had been a lesson to be learned, and hed learned it well.
This time, he could think more clearly. Hed make certain the same didnt happen with Angel. Hed reason with his brains, not his heart, and sooner or later, hed win her over.
His ruthlessness was an inherent part of his nature. After all, much as he might dislike it on occasion, he was still a Carter. Angel didnt stand a chance.
I dont like it. I think you should tell Derek.
Angel was so sick of hearing Micks refrain. He and Derek got along wonderfully, but then who wouldnt get along with him? Derek was generous and thoughtful and attentive and protective. Hed shown up every day for the past week, helping with everything from bathing the baby to shopping and housework. Twice he had brought over dinner, then cleaned up the mess so Angel could get caught up on her typing. Hed tried to give her money, but after shed told him exactly what she thought of that idea, he hadnt mentioned it again.
Instead, he asked questions, hundreds and hundreds of questions. Sometimes it made her nervous, though she couldnt say why. He just seemed so different.
The job he got me is awesome.
She smiled at Micks enthusiasm. Hed been with her since six oclock while they went over his homework. Now it was nine and hed done little else but talk about Derek in between lessons in calculus and conjugating Spanish verbs. So you like it?
Are you kidding? Whats not to like? Its a private investigations office and the people there are so laid-back and friendly. Its like a big family.
Angels heart twisted. Mick had never had much family to brag about. His mother was more absent than not, and even when she was around, she didnt demonstrate any maternal instincts. Mick had pretty much raised himself, and Angel knew what a lonely existence that could be.
Theyve been telling me some of the cases theyve dealt with. Incredible stuff, like shoot-outs and drug busts and all kinds of stuff. This one guy, Alec Sharpe, hes actually sort of scary, but dont tell Derek I said so.
Angel smiled in amazement. If the man spooked Mick, who wasnt afraid of anyone as far as she could tell, he must be one frightening character. She pretended to lock her lips with an imaginary key. Not a word, I promise.
The guy has the darkest eyes and hes real quiet and when he talks, even if its just to ask for coffee, everyone around him shuts up and listens. I think hes sort of a boss or something.
Angel gathered up pencils and pens and put the calculator away. What do you do there?
Mick made a face. All kinds of stuff, from cleaning and running out for doughnuts to making coffee and putting files away. But theyre all real nice about it. They dont act like Im getting paid, but more like Im doing them a huge favor and they really appreciate it. And Alec gave me this really cool car to drive. It has the best stereo.
Angel knew Mick would be paid more working there than he had made doing both jobs before. And it had been agreed he wouldnt work past six oclock on school days, and only until the afternoon on the weekends. She was so incredibly grateful to Derek, seeing the change in Mick. He was more like the average kid now, happy and proud. And he adored Derek.
Of course, Mick didnt know everything that had happened between Angel and Derek in the past. And shed never tell. Derek was doing his best to prove the past really was over; not for the world would she take away Micks present happiness.
Why do you still dislike him so much, Angel?
Mick
He could help, Mick said, anxious to convince her. The phone calls were bad enough, but now the letter
She rubbed her head. I know. The letter proves whoever it is knows where to find me. Ive been thinking about this a lot. She hesitated, almost afraid to voice her suspicions out loud. Its possible Derek is the one behind all this.
He stared at her hard, then got to his feet and paced away. You dont really believe that.
She didnt want to believe it. But the letter proved her alias hadnt workedan alias Derek had noticed his first time to her apartment. She didnt want to think he could be so vindictive, but he might have slipped up and told his family, and they were using the information to drive her away. That she could believe only too well.
I dont know what alls going on between you two, but I do know youre in trouble. Youre being stalked, and whoevers been making the calls could have gotten your number from anywhere, maybe even from the ads you ran for typing. But now he knows where you live. The letter proves that. If you keep putting off telling Derek, you could end up hurt.
Well, I cant do anything about it tonight. Derek had business and couldnt come over. And it isnt something to discuss on the phone.
Mick nodded slowly as he slipped his jacket on. Ill try to watch out for you, Angel. I wouldnt let anyone hurt you if I could help it, but I cant always be here.,
Her blood ran cold with his words. Mick, if you ever, ever hear anything suspicious, or see anyone around the mailboxes, you call the police. Dont you dare try confronting anyone on your own.
He didnt reply to that, merely made his way to the door. Ill lock this behind me.
Mick?
Call him, Angel. Tell him whats going on. He cares about you and Grayson. I know he does.
It would have been nice if Mick didnt act like the typical domineering, overprotective male. Why were men, of all ages, so blasted stubborn? She sighed. Ill think about it.
Mick looked at her a moment longer, then nodded. All right. Ill see you tomorrow?
She smiled at him. She was very lucky shed met him when she had. Knowing him, having his friendship, had made her life much easier. Yes. Get some sleep so youre well rested for that test.
Yes, maam.
After checking that the door was securely locked, Angel peeked in on Grayson. He was sleeping soundly, which would give her a chance to take a quick shower. With all of Dereks help of late, her leg had more time to rest. It didnt hurt as often anymore, but tonight it was sore. Shed sat too long typing at her desk earlier and the muscles felt cramped. A hot shower usually helped.
Leaving the bathroom door open so she could hear Grayson if he cried, she stripped off her clothes and reached into the tub to adjust the temperature of the water. Once the steam started billowing out, she slipped in under the spray.
It felt wonderful to once again wash her hair with scented shampoo, to use all the toiletries shed given up on due to lack of funds. At first shed tried returning the things to Derek, but hed been so sincere in wanting her to keep them, so anxious to relieve the guilt of his past sinshis words for his execrable behavior of the pastthat she couldnt deny him.
She lingered for a long time, relaxing in the hypnotic warmth of the steam and stinging spray, until she became sleepy and knew she needed to put herself to bed. Grayson still woke during the night for a feeding, and he was usually up with the birds in the morning.
She was just stepping over the side of the tub when the phone rang.
Her first thought was that it might be Derek, and ridiculously enough, her heart leaped. Hed taken to calling her several times a day, whereas before her phone had seldom rung at all.
Many times now hed called to tell her good morning, or goodnight, even if hed spent hours at her apartment.
Wrapping a thick white towel around herself, she hurried out of the bathroom and into the kitchen to snatch up the phone. She was smiling as she said, Hello?
A rough, rasping breath answered her, then turned into a growl. Her smile died a quick death.
Shaken, Angel started to slam the phone back down, and then she heard, Bitch. Give me what I want.
The rasping tones didnt sound human and her blood rushed from her head, leaving her dizzy. I dont know what you want, she said, her voice shaking despite her efforts to sound unaffected.
Yes, you do. There was a laugh, taunting and high-pitched. Youre not as innocent as you like to pretend, Angel Morton. But your time is up. Do you hear me?
Im hanging up now, she said, determined not to let the caller get the upper hand.
Did you get my letter? I know where you are now. You better watch your back
Angel slammed the phone into the cradle. Her heart was beating so hard, it rocked her body and she quickly wrapped her arms around herself. She was only marginally aware of the water dripping from her hair down her back, leaving a puddle on the floor. Goose bumps rose on her skin, but she was frozen, unable to move.
When the knock sounded on the door, she let out a startled, short scream, jumping back two steps and bumping into the kitchen table. A chair tipped over and crashed to the floor. Grayson woke, his disgruntled wail piercing in the otherwise leaden silence.
She heard Derek call out, Angel! at the same time a key sounded in the lock. The door immediately swung open. She couldnt help herself, she gaped at him. How had he known to show up just when she needed him most?
In the next instant, doubt surfaced, and she had to wonder if it was a coincidence, or part of a plan. Was it possible he was working with his family to drive her away? Had she inadvertently stepped into the lions den?
Derek stormed in like an avenging angel, took one look at her standing there with nothing more than the towel covering her, then crossed the room with long, angry strides. He grabbed her shoulders. Whats the matter? Whats happened?
Angel managed to shake herself out of her stupor. She clutched at her towel with a fist. What are you doing here?
He looked nonplussed by her calm question and tightened his hands on her. I wanted to see you. His head turned in the direction of Graysons wails and a fierce frown formed. Youre both okay?
Yes, of course.
But you screamed. He turned back to her, raised one hand when she started to speak, then shook his head. First things first. Go get dried off. Ill get the baby.
She was shaking all over, but he thankfully didnt comment on it. Thank you. I think the phone disturbed him, and then your knock
Derek started her toward her bedroom with a gentle push. I understand, babe. Go. Well talk about it in a minute.
Regardless of what hed said, Angel followed Derek into the babys room and made certain everything was all right. She never let Grayson cry, and even now, when she was so rattled, she couldnt stand to hear him upset. Derek cradled him close to his chest, rocking him, murmuring to him, and Grayson immediately began to quiet, his yells turning into hiccups as he recognized his fathers scent and voice. Derek held his face close to the babys, nuzzling, kissing his tiny ear, his cheek, smoothing his large hand up and down Graysons back. Angels throat felt tight and her chest restricted.
He turned suddenly when he realized Angel had followed him. Slowly, his gaze ran the length of her, lingering, she knew, on the still harsh scars of her left leg. His attention returned to the baby. Go get something on, Angel, before you catch cold.
She wondered if her leg repulsed him; his voice had sounded unusually gruff and low. It really was ugly and overall she looked like a drowned rat at the moment. All right. Ill Ill be right back.
In the bathroom again, she quickly dried off, dragged a comb through her tangled hair, then shrugged into her housecoat. It was long and thick and covered her from head to toe. She hurried back in to Grayson. The baby now had his entire fist stuffed in his mouth, sucking loudly. She knew from experience that would only suffice for so long.
Let me have him. After I nurse him, he should fall back to sleep.
Derek gave her a long look before nodding. Let me change him first.
He disappeared into the other room and Angel paced. The letter this afternoon, then the phone call It was the first time shed heard a voice. Usually the calls consisted of heavy breathing and ominous silences. Again, chills ran up her arms and she ducked her head, her brain working furiously. Mick was right; she had to trust Derek, had to tell him of her suspicions. But she wouldnt tell him everything. Shed only confide about the most recent events. After she saw how he reacted to that, then shed consider telling him the rest.
When he touched her shoulder, she again jumped, whirling about to face him, her hand pressed to her throat. His expression was dark, his eyes narrowed, and she tried a nervous laugh.
Im sorry. You startled me.
Obviously. But well talk about that in a minute.
She took the baby, quickly settled herself on the couch and then looked at Derek. He always left the room when she nursed Grayson, giving her the privacy she needed, but this time he stared right back. Slowly, his gaze never leaving her face, he took the chair opposite her. Heat bloomed inside her. Derek
No more secrets, Angel.
Grayson rooted against her, anxious for his meal, and she knew, judging by Dereks expression, arguing would gain her nothing. She pulled her gaze away from him, deliberately ignoring his very attentive audience, and went about feeding her baby. She felt stiff, unable to relax, so many things racing through her mind.
After a moment, Derek rose from his chair and reseated himself beside her. The soft, worn cushions of the couch slumped with his weight and her hip rolled next to his, bumping into him. He felt warm and hard, his presence overwhelming. Angel was acutely aware of his undivided concentration on her breast. She kept her visual attention firmly placed on Grayson.
Casually, Derek slipped his arm around her shoulders. She had trouble breathing. She moved Grayson to her other breast, closer to Derek, and as he nursed he began to fall back to sleep. He looked precious, and she couldnt hold back a smile.
Hes beautiful, Angel. Dereks warm breath fanned her temple and she shivered. Youre beautiful.
His voice sounded with awe, and as he scooted even closer, seeming to surround her with his heat and scent and power, she felt herself relaxing. This felt right. Derek was doing nothing untoward, only taking part in what was rightfully his. His left arm moved across her abdomen in an embrace, just below the baby, circling both mother and son. He kissed her temple, a light, loving kiss. Slowly, Grayson released her nipple and a drop of milk slid down his chin. With his fingertip, Derek wiped it away.
They neither one moved. She knew Derek was looking at her, studying her, but there was nothing lurid about his scrutiny. He dipped his head and kissed Grayson on his silky crown. In a low, husky whisper, he asked, Would you like me to burp him and put him back to bed?
Angel nodded.
As he was lifted, Grayson stretched and groaned and gave a loud belch, making any further efforts unnecessary. Derek grinned as he hefted the small weight to his shoulder and got to his feet. He looked down at Angel. Ill be right back, he whispered. Dont move.
Other than covering her breast and nervously shifting, she obeyed.
It was late, now close to eleven oclock, but she was far from sleepy. So many emotions were pulling at her, fear and anxiety and anticipation, but also a deep contentment. Derek was everything a father should be, and she couldnt quite work up the energy to distrust him anymore. It took all she had as she fought herself to keep from falling in love with him. Despising him was out of the question.
Derek stepped out of the babys room, softly closing the door behind him. For long moments, he merely stared at Angel across the room. The time of reckoning, she thought.
For the life of her, she couldnt seem to move. Her heart began racing, her palms grew damp. She saw Derek lock his jaw, saw his shoulders tighten and flex, and she knew, without him saying a single word, he was caught in the same inexplicable flow of emotions as she.
What would happen next, she couldnt guess, but she was anxious to find out.
And then the phone rang.
Angel gasped. Both wary and disgusted by the interruption, she stared toward the kitchen where the phone was located.
Derek frowned at her. Do you want me to get that for you?
No, Ill She shook her head, wiped her palms across her thighs. And still she sat there, staring at the phone.
Sparing her a curious glance, Derek stalked to the phone and snatched it up on the fifth ring. Hello? He kept his gaze on Angel as he spoke and she tried to clear her expression, but she could see hed already read too much there.
Hello? he said a little more forcefully. He looked at the receiver, then gently placed it in the cradle. As he walked back to loom over Angel, she could see the questions in his eyes. Whats going on, honey? His tone was soft, menacing.
She shook her head. I dont know.
He waited, not moving away, not saying another word. She recognized his stubborn expression, only now there was more of a threat there, more determination than ever.
Sometimes I get strange calls.
She hadnt meant to make such a bald confession, but it just slipped out. After a deep breath while he raised one eyebrow, encouraging her, she continued. Sometimes, eight or ten times now, someone has called and just breathed in the phone. Today I finally heard a voice. He said things to me. She lifted her gaze and got caught in his. He called right before you got here.
Dereks eyes darkened, his eyebrows lowered, and suddenly he was crouching there in front of her, his hands holding hers, hard but not really hurting her. It did give her the feeling she couldnt get away, even if she tried.
His gaze was so intense, so probing, she squirmed. You thought it might be me, he accused.
He didnt sound angry precisely, though she couldnt pinpoint the dominant emotion in his tone. She straightened her shoulders and frowned right back. I wondered. I have no enemies that I know of, no reason for threats. Youre the only person who ever seemed to despise me, and Ive never really understood why.
There, let him deal with that, she thought and jerked away to walk carefully into the kitchen. She needed something to drink, some warm tea. And she needed to escape his close scrutiny.
Out of the corner of her eye, she watched Derek stand, then pace around her tiny living room. He had his hands back in his pockets and his head down in deep thought. She was familiar with that look now, that show of serious introspection. Shed seen it a lot lately, though in the past she couldnt recall Derek ever doubting himself, ever giving so much thought to anything pertaining to her.
She put water on to boil, then asked, Would you like some tea?
Thank you.
After righting the fallen chair, she sat at her small kitchen table, waiting for the water to get hot. Moments later she felt Dereks hands on her shoulders, heavy and warm.
The problem is, he whispered, Im not making the calls. And I dont despise you. His hands slipped up to her throat, caressing, then smoothing her damp hair back behind her ears. On the contrary, Angel, I want to take care of you.
Anger caused her eyes to narrow. She wanted to believe him, to understand and accept his help. She twisted to face him. Why? Why now, when you made it plain months ago how you felt? You deliberately humiliated me in front of my supervisors. You didnt just break things off, you tried to break me. Why?
His eyes closed and he turned his head away. Youre right, of course. I cant undo the past. I can only have regrets, which dont amount to a hill of beans. But Im here now and Id like to help.
Since that was what shed wanted all along, what her entire plan had been, she should have been relieved. But somehow everything was different than shed expected. He wasnt the same man, easy to be detached from now. The Derek whod first hurt her had been more of an illusion to her, an image of strength and power that had seduced her by sheer impression. She hadnt really known the man, other than in the most superficial ways; shed merely been attracted to his image. But now she genuinely liked and respected him. When she could set the past aside, he was fun, and when he held Grayson, the affection in his eyes filled her with an insidious warmth that expanded her heart. More often than not, she didnt understand what she was feeling.
Only one thing was certain; Grayson could be at risk if she didnt find some sort of protection.
She got up to serve the tea, collecting her thoughts. After she sat his cup near him on the table, she said, Ive gotten several anonymous calls lately, more than ever before. Usually, its just breathing and such. They started before Id moved, when I lived in my old apartment. After I moved here, they stopped for a while and I thought Id lost whoever it was. But just recently they started up again. Its possible my phone number was taken from one of the posted ads around the colleges. The ads are generic, offering typing, but since Ive been transcribing for colleges ever since the accident, it could be my number was relocated that way.
Derek nodded. Very possible, I suppose. But the person , making the calls would have to be damn determined.
Angel shivered. He spoke for the first time today. He said, very clearly, that I couldnt hide. He called me a few choice names and told me to give him what he wanted.
She saw Dereks jaw go hard and knew he was clenching his teeth. He stared at her and she shrugged helplessly. I dont know what he wants. I wish I did.
Go on.
I also got a letter in my mailbox.
Where is it?
She pulled an envelope from the basket on top of her refrigerator and handed it to Derek. The letter was now wrinkled from her many hours of examining it, but Derek had no trouble making out the typed message. Ive found you, he read aloud. He was silent for a long time, his face dark, his expression tight. He threw the letter on the table and turned on her.
You thought I was behind this? he asked, his teeth clenched, color high on his face. You thought I would resort to sneaking around and stuffing threatening letters in a womans mailbox, in your mailbox?
His reaction was genuine and for the first time she felt absolutely positive that he played no part in the harassment.
A little truth now certainly wouldnt hurt. Problem was, as she tried to give it, tears gathered in her eyes, and she couldnt quite work up the nerve to accuse his family, the most likely of suspects. Not yet.
She shook her head. No, she said, trying to sound sure of herself. I dont really think youre behind it. But the letter came after I contacted you. Before that, all Id gotten was phone calls. And you noticed the fake name on my mailbox that day. Now tonight, you showed up right after the call, and it was the first time hed ever spoken to me. Thats a lot of coincidences. She searched his face, hoping hed understand. I had to consider you, Derek. I couldnt take any chances with Graysons safety.
Seconds ticked by, then he reluctantly nodded.
She drew a deep breath of relief. The whole reason I contacted you again, the only reason I introduced Grayson to you is because deep down, for some incredibly insane reason, I guess I still trust you. Even after everything that happened, I thought I thought you would help. I hoped you would help.
She swallowed, the sound audible, almost choked. Derek Ive been so scared, and I dont have anyone else to go to.
A stunned moment of silence fell between them. She could feel the waves of emotion emanating from him, anger and regret and need. Then she was in his arms and it felt so good, so right, she curled closer and snuggled tighter, trying to fit herself completely against his long, hard length. His arms wrapped around her, urgently, almost violently, while his mouth nuzzled down her face, giving her small anxious biting kisses until finally he reached her lips and then he was devouring her and she was glad, so very, very glad.
Dane knew he should pull back, that he was making a terrible tactical error. He wasnt completely in control, and he should be. But he couldnt put so much as an inch between them. He wanted, needed her, right now. Even two seconds more would be too long to wait. And Angel was so soft and anxious against him, her breasts pressed to his chest, her pelvis cradling his own. She wanted him, too, and that was all that mattered. The deceptions, the worries, could be taken care of in the morning. Hed make it all okay, one way or another, but for now, tonight, he wouldnt say a single thing that would put a halt to her greed.
Growling low, he slid his hands down to her backside and cuddled her even closer. She felt so damn good.
Angel.
She pressed her face into his throat and shuddered. I dont understand this, Derek, she said on a near wail. Ive never felt like this before.
How could he possibly explain it to her, when he didnt understand it himself? He knew she would compare him to Derek, and as much as hed loved his brother, as dedicated as he was to finding out the truth, right now claiming her took precedence over everything else.
He shushed her with more kisses. Ive never felt this way either, honey. Dont worry about it now. Just let me love you.
She opened her mouth against him and took a soft, greedy love bite of his throat. Gasping, he quickly picked her up, mindful of her injured leg, and hurried to her bedroom, nudging the door shut behind them until it closed with a secure click. He didnt want to take the chance of waking Grayson. He wanted no interruptions at all.
He didnt put her on the bed, choosing to stand her beside it instead. He wanted her naked, and he wanted to look his fill. It felt as if hed been waiting forever.
As he grasped the cloth belt to her robe, ready to pull it free, she caught his wrists. His gaze darted to her face and he was amazed to see how heavy and sensual her eyes had become, her thick lashes lowered, the green eyes bright and hot. Her high cheekbones were colored, but with need, not embarrassment. She took soft, panting breaths as she looked up at him.
She licked her lips, and even that innocently seductive sight had him trembling.
I dont want to disappoint you, Derek.
Hed never before minded being mistaken for his twin. Through his entire life people had often done it, sometimes even his parents. Before their father had died, he and Derek had often played tricks on him, deliberately confusing him.
But now, he hated it. He had to struggle for breath. He gave her a hard quick kiss, which turned tender and hungry and lingered sweetly. When he pulled away, it seemed to take a great effort on her part for her to get her eyes open. He smiled. Theres no way you could disappoint me, honey.
My bodys changed. The baby
Still holding her gaze he tugged the knot out of the belt and pushed the robe off her shoulders. She dropped her arms and the robe fell free all the way to the floor. Angel lowered her head and turned slightly away.
For nearly a minute he was speechless. She was more beautiful than any woman had a right to be, and there was absolutely nothing motherly about her heavy, firm breasts, the stiff dark nipples. Her rib cage expanded and fluttered with her uneven breaths and her belly looked soft and slightly rounded, very pale. He spread one large, hot palm over her stomach and heard her small gasp.
Derek?
Shhh. Ive never wanted a woman the way I want you, Angel. Trust me when I tell you theres not a single thing about you that could disappoint me. Her legs were long and so sexy, even with the harsh scars on her left shin. He immediately pictured those long legs wrapped around him, her heels digging into the small of his back, urging him on, and he groaned as his erection pulsed, demanding release.
Slowly, so he wouldnt startle her, he slid his palm downward until he was cupping her, his fingers tangling in the dark blond curls over her mound. They felt damp and soft under his fingertips, her flesh swollen, and he breathed deeply through his nose, trying to ease the constriction in his lungs. He held still, just holding her like that, letting her feel the heat of his palm, letting the anticipation build.
Angel moaned and stepped up against him. Her hands gripped his biceps, her forehead pressed to his shoulder.
Dane swallowed and smiled grimly. Do you remember when I touched you in my office? he asked against her temple.
She nodded her head.
He licked her ear and gently nipped the lobe. You were so close then, Angel, and Id barely done anything to you. Little more than kissing. He nearly groaned with the memory.
Her hips jerked, encouraging him. Anticipating her response, he inched his fingers lower, gliding over her warm flesh, opening her soft, plump folds, learning her, exploring. She was already so hot, so silky wet, and it amazed him the way she reacted to his touch. It also made him nearly crazy with a frenzied mix of lust and overwhelming tenderness.
Her body felt frozen against his, very still, waiting. Even her breathing became suspended, as if she was afraid to move for fear of missing something. Determination swelled within him. He had no intention of leaving her with complaints; her views on the joys of sex were about to be altered.
Open your legs a little more for me, Angel. He could tell that she responded to his words, and he wasnt about to disappoint her. Let me feel you. All of you.
With a shudder, her face well hidden against his chest, she carefully widened her stance. Immediately he pressed one finger deep inside her, at the same time he braced his free arm around her waist.
She needed his support.
Her body went alternately stiff and completely yielding. Holding her against him, acutely aware of her broken breaths, her soft moans, the way her fingers dug into his chest, he stroked her. He could feel her tightening, feel the small shudders moving up and down her body. He eased her a little away from him and she allowed the small separation, her head falling back on her shoulders, her still-damp hair trailing down to tickle against his arm. He saw her breasts heaving and dipped his head down to take one plump nipple into his mouth.
Ohhh
He lapped with his tongue, nibbled with his teeth, drew deeply on her. Her hands raised from his chest to his head and her fingers tangled in his hair, tugging, trying to draw him even closer.
I have to sit down, she moaned.
No. He blew on her damp nipple, watching it go painfully tight. The pregnancy had no doubt made her breasts extra sensitive, and he intended to take advantage of that fact. Right here, Angel. Well get to the bed in a minute.
He switched to her other breast and heard her give a soft sob of compliance. Voluntarily, she parted her legs even more and then thrust against him. He slid his finger all the way out, teasing, then worked it heavily back into her again. Youre so wet for me, honey, he said on a groan, amazed and thrilled and so hot himself he wanted to die.
Forcefully, making him wince, she brought his mouth back up to her own and this time she kissed him, awkwardly but with so much hunger he thought he might burst. He rubbed his heavy erection against her soft hip while he carefully forced a second finger inside her. He found a rhythm that pleased her and went about seeing to her satisfaction. He was playing it safe, not about to remove his clothes or lie with her on the bed, knowing his control was thin at the moment and any little thing could send him over the edge. He wouldnt risk taking his own completion before hed seen to hers.
Within minutes she was crying, her body tight and trembling, her hands frenzied on his back and shoulders. Slowly, he eased her down to the side of the bed so that her legs hung over the edge, then knelt between them. She dropped back, her hands fisting in the bedclothes, her hips twisting. Dane lifted her legs to his shoulders and before she could objectif indeed she would have given how close she washe cupped her hips in his hands and brought her to his mouth.
She tasted sweet and incredibly hot and he was beyond teasing her, so close to exploding himself. His heart thundered and her scent filled him as he nuzzled into her, driving himself ever closer. As his tongue stroked over her sensitive flesh, as he found the small engorged bud and drew on it, teasing with his tongue, tormenting with his teeth, she gave a stifled scream and climaxed.
Quickly, wanting to feel every bit of her, he pushed his fingers back inside her. Her feminine muscles gripped him, the spasms strong as she pressed herself even higher, moving against his open mouth and continuing to cry and moan and excite him unbearably. It went on and on and he almost lost control. He was shaking all over when she finally quieted, her eyes closed, her lashes damp on her cheeks, her mouth slightly open as she gulped air.
She never so much as blinked when he lifted her legs gently to the bed and stood to look down at her. Slowly, drinking in the sight of her limp, sated body, he pulled his shirt free from his pants and began unbuttoning it. He forced himself to go slow, to savor the moment of his claiming. Even to his own mind, his thoughts, his responses, seemed primitive, maybe even ruthless. But he wanted her to be his and his alonea feeling hed never encountered before, not even with Anna. He wanted to take her so thoroughly, possess her so completely, shed be willing to forgive him anything, willing to trust him in all matters.
She gave a shuddering sigh, lifted one languid hand to her forehead and pushed her hair away from her face. Dane watched her, so suffused with heat the edges of his vision blurred.
While he tugged his belt loose from the clasp with one hand, he dropped his other lightly to her soft thigh. Her skin felt like warm silk to him, and tempted him more than it should have.
Her lashes fluttered as his fingers trailed higher, and finally her eyes opened. She looked dazed and relaxed, on the verge of sleep. He smiled and carefully worked his zipper down past his throbbing erection. You scream very well, Angel. I liked it.
Oh. Her cheeks filled with color and she swallowed. When her gaze dropped to the open vee in his slacks, her eyes opened wide. Oh.
Dane sat on the bed beside her, his hand still on her thigh. No, dont get up. I like seeing you sprawled there. She relaxed back again and he used the toes of his left foot to work off his right shoe, while at the same time surveying her body. He traced a nipple with his fingertip, around and around until she made a protesting sound. Then he dragged his fingers over her ribs and to her belly. She shifted abruptly.
Ticklish?
Derek
Leaning over, he pressed a lingering kiss to her navel. I love the way you taste, honey.
She made a groaning sound of renewed interest, then tried to turn away from him. He caught her hips, stopping her.
Derek, you cant expect me to
Yes I do. Once again his fingers slid between her legs, anchoring her in place while he kissed his way up her abdomen to her breasts. I expect you to let me pleasure you, and I expect you to continue enjoying my efforts.
He raised his head for just a moment, pinning her with a look. You came, Angel. A nice long, hard climax. And if I didnt miss my guess, it was your first. So dont try to deny it.
She gasped. I wasnt going to!
Good. When he drew her nipple into the heat of his mouth she writhed against him, then fisted her hands in his hair.
No, Derek.
He jerked upward and pinned her hands next to her head. Yes.
She said quickly, before he could kiss her, I want you to take your shirt off. I want to see you, too. Its not fair for me to lie here exposed, while youre completely dressed.
His grin was slow and wicked. He knew it, but didnt care. She wasnt denying him at all as hed first thought. She only insisted on her fair share. All right.
He pushed himself off the bed. Dont move, Angel. You inspire me, lying there like that.
He shrugged his shirt off and grabbed the waistband of his pants. He stepped between her legs as he pushed them down, removing his boxers at the same time. When he straightened, he was naked.
Angels gaze roamed over him and her face heated again. He stifled a laugh, delighted with her. Her particular brand of innocence and hot sexuality was driving him crazy. He loved it. He loved No, his thoughts refused to budge any further in that direction. He firmed his resolve.
Using a knee, he spread her legs even more and lowered himself over her. Propped on his elbows, he smiled down at her. Hi.
Rather than smiling back, she traced his face, over his eyebrows, the bridge of his nose, the dip in his chin. You took me by surprise, Derek. Everything is so different
So you keep saying. He didnt want to talk about that right now. Thinking of his brother with her like this was enough to make him howl at the moon.
What happened was unexpected.
But nice? He again caught her hands and trapped them over her head, leaving her submissive to his desires.
She looked thoughtful as she continued her study of his face. Very nice. Incredible really. But ever since I saw you again, its been that way. You look at me, and I get all hot inside. You touch me and I cant think straight. I try to despise you; I have good reason to despise you, but I cant. It doesnt make any sense. Unless having the baby changed me somehow.
Angel. She was killing him with her words, but he didnt know how to tell her that.
After everything that happened between us, I thought Id always hate you.
He groaned. Dont, babe. He kissed her, hard and long, his tongue thrusting deep, stroking in a parody of the sex act. He rubbed his hairy chest against her sensitive nipples and felt her legs bend, coming up to hug his hips. The open juncture of her legs was a sweet torture, her damp heat against his belly, her soft thighs cradling him. He rubbed against her, his muscles bound so tight he felt ready to break.
She shifted, and then his erection was smoothly pushing against her wet sex. Angel began moving with him, their mouths still fused together, both of them breathing rapidly, roughly.
She jerked and pulled her mouth away, crying out.
Dane was stunned as she quickly climaxed again, shuddering beneath him, her head arched back, her heels digging into his thighs.
His control snapped. Shaking, he grabbed up his slacks and fumbled like a drunk for his wallet. He found a condom and viciously ripped the packet open with his teeth. Angel was still gasping breathlessly and when he turned, catching her legs in the crook of his elbows, spreading her wide and driving into her with one hard thrust, she cried out again.
He couldnt think. His brain throbbed and his vision went blank and all he could do was feel and smell and taste her. Shed invaded his heart, his soul. He was the one who felt possessed and he rebelled against it even as he felt himself spiraling away. He squeezed his eyes shut and growled and pumped and when he heard Angel groan he knew she was with him yet again. It was too much. It felt like he exploded, his entire body gripped in painful pleasure, but it was so damn wonderful he never wanted it to end.
It took him a long time to come back to reality, to hear Angels soft sniffling, to feel the shudders in her body. Slowly, feeling drugged, he struggled up to his elbows again. Tears dampened her eyelashes and her lips looked swollen. His heart twisted.
Damn, her leg. His arms were still tangled with her legs and he knew she had to be in pain. Hed taken her roughly, almost brutally. That hed hurt her made him wince in self-loathing. Carefully, he straightened, letting her legs down easy. She groaned and pressed her face to the side, away from him.
He cupped her chin and turned her back. Angel, honey, Im sorry.
She shook her head.
Babe, look at me.
Her eyelashes lifted and she stared up at him. The tears in her eyes twisted his guts. He pressed his forehead to hers and kissed her gently. Im so sorry, sweetheart. I didnt mean to hurt you.
She frowned.
I got a little carried away. He tried a smile but it felt more like a grimace. You moaned, and all rational thought fled my mind. Im sorry. He sounded like a parrot, apologizing over and over again.
Derek
Goddammit, he hated having her call him that. Shh. Its all right. Her hair, dry now and tangled impossibly, lay wild around her head. He tried to smooth it. Can I get you anything? Some aspirin or something? He felt like an idiot, having sex with a woman then offering her medicine for the pain.
She shook her head again and her voice, when she spoke, was tentative and as soft as a whisper. Im fine, just a little stunned. Is it always like that?
Now he felt confused. Buying himself some time, he sat up and carefully moved to the side of her. Her body had been damp and warm from their exertions and combined heat, and she shivered in the cool evening air. He pulled the corner of the spread up to cover her, but left her leg bare. Gently, he massaged her calf and saw her wince.
Dammit, Im an unthinking bastard. I
She laughed, catching his hand and twining her fingers with his. No, youre not. Im fine, Derek.
He forcefully ignored the continued use of his brothers name. Then why were you crying?
She sat up and put her arms around him, burrowing close. Because it was so wonderful.
His heart pounding, Dane hugged her back. I didnt hurt you?
She laughed. Maybe a little, but I didnt notice until after.
He pressed her back down on the bed and stood. Ill be right back. With those words, and one last glance at her naked body, he left the bedroom. He wanted to make sure the apartment was secure for the night. There were three windows, one in the kitchen over the sink, but it was too small for an intruder, and one in the living room on that same wall. He checked to make sure it was locked, then realized the window was so old and warped, opening it would be a true effort. Hed be in the bedroom, so he wasnt worried about that window. Hed already locked the front door when hed first come in. He glanced at the phone, scowled, but put that particular worry from his mind. Right now, he wanted to concentrate on Angel.
He peeked in on Grayson to see the baby sleeping soundly. Hed been afraid their commotion might have disturbed the infant, but Grayson was snuggled warm and comfy in his crib. He lay on his side, and one chubby cheek was smooshed, his rosebud mouth slightly open.
Damn, Dane felt good. He hadnt felt this good in Hed never felt this good. Angel was the perfect bed partner, wild and abandoned and responsive. She burned him up. She was also sweet and caring and strong.
And she had Grayson, his nephew, the strongest bond he had left to his brother. In his heart, Grayson was his own.
As soon as he set things right with Angel, theyd be able to work together to find out what had happened to Derek. Likely, the threats to her and Dereks death were related. He hated the unknown, hated how ineffectual he felt when dealing with the whole problem. Somehow he had to uncover a mystery and protect Angel at the same time. Thank God the threats to her were so far only abstract, not physical. Long before they got too serious, he intended to have everything resolved. From here on out, hed double his efforts.
Dane returned to the bedroom moments later with a damp washcloth. Hed disposed of the used condom, and set two more on the nightstand. The night was still young, and he was still hungry.
Angel looked almost asleep and the fact she hadnt been concerned with him roaming her apartment assured him that she was starting to trust him, at least a little. It also proved, to some degree, that she had nothing at all to hide.
She opened her eyes and blinked sleepily up at him when he sat on the edge of the mattress. What are you doing?
I was just going to make you more comfortable. So saying, he swiped the warm, damp cloth over her face, her neck, then down her body. She smiled and arched into his hand with a sigh of pleasure.
You wore a a
Dane cocked one eyebrow. A what?
Pointing down to his lap, she said, You know. Before you made love to me.
A rubber? I didnt want to take any chances. Much as I adore Grayson, the last thing you need right now is another pregnancy, what with your leg and
And my financial situation and the threats.
Dane leaned down and kissed her. Ill take care of the threats. Dont worry about that. And as far as Im concerned, you dont have any financial worries. I can take care of everything. As quickly as he said it, he raised a placating hand. I didnt mean that quite the way it sounded.
But Angel was already scowling fiercely. Ive told you enough times now, Derek, I dont need anything from you.
Dane eyed her heaving breasts, her flushed cheeks, and tossed the washcloth away. I wouldnt say thats precisely true. In the next instant they were sprawled on the bed again. Angel moaned his brothers name.
As he shoved the spread out of his way so nothing would be between their bodies, he whispered, Im spending the night, honey, and in the morning well figure everything out. But for now, I want you again.
Derek.
Hed have to settle things soon. Being called another mans name while making love to a woman who was quickly obsessing his mind couldnt be borne.
In the morning, he thought. Hed clear it all up in the morning. Then Angel could begin accepting things. She could begin dealing with Dane Carter. And hed be sure to remind her how much more she liked him than Derek.
Angel woke with a groan. She felt sore in places shed never thought about before, her muscles protesting as she stretched, her mind foggy from too little sleep.
She and Derek had made love several times during the night. The man seemed insatiable, yet she wouldnt complain. Everything hed done to her had been wonderful, if a bit shocking. She smiled as she looked toward the window and saw that the sun was coming up in a blaze of orange light. She loved dawn in the winter, the promise of sunshine when the weather was so bleak and cold.
Turning back to the center of the bed, she reached for Derek, only he wasnt there. Angel frowned, and then her gaze fell on the clock on the nightstand. Eight-thirty. Good grief, she hadnt lain abed so late in ages. She wondered if Derek was in another part of the apartment, but it was then she noticed the note on his pillow. She straightened in the bed and unfolded the slip of paper.
Sorry I had to run off, but I had to be at the office early today. I didnt want to disturb youany more than I already had through the night.
Angel smiled. She could almost hear the boasting tone of his voice in the teasing words.
A lot to do. Ill call you later. Stay in the apartment and dont worry. Ill take care of things.
D.
Dont worry, indeed. How did he presume to magically take care of things? she wondered. She dropped the note as she yawned and stretched once more. Time to get up and check on Grayson. At least Derek had had the foresight to leave the bedroom door open. Hed closed it during the night, against her protests, but true to his word, hed heard Grayson when the baby awoke, and had even fetched him to her so she hadnt been forced to leave the warmth of the bed. After shed nursed him, Derek had taken him back to his crib, then since they were both awake, hed made love to her once more. Even that last time it had turned fast and furious and shed bitten his shoulder to keep from screaming like a wild woman.
Her face heated with the memory of Dereks satisfied smile. Hed looked at the small teeth marks on his shoulder and grinned with pride.
Unaccountable man. Angel smiled.
It was as she was slipping on her housecoat that the crash sounded. Breaking glass and a loud thunking sound, followed by a low hissing. Her heart leaped into her throat and it took her a moment to unglue her feet, to get herself in motion. She raced out of the bedroom, and was immediately assailed by the smell of smoke. Billows of it poured out of the kitchen into the rest of the tiny apartment.
Oh my God. Angel stared, then ran for Grayson. The baby had just been jarred awake, and his face was blank for only a second before he began to squall. She jerked him up into her arms, wrapped a blanket tightly around him and then raced to the front door. It took her too much time to manipulate the lock and she was cursing as she finally got the door to open. Once in the hallway she froze, wondering what to do, if maybe the fire had been deliberately set for just that reason, to get her out of the apartment, vulnerable. Shaking, her heart beating too fast, she tried to soothe Grayson even as she ran the length of the hall to Micks apartment.
She pounded on the door, trying to look around herself, to be aware of any danger. The door opened and Micks mother stood there, her face ravaged from a long night, her clothes rumpled as if shed slept in them. She looked unsteady and very put out. Before Angel could say anything, Mick came around his mother.
Whats happened? He jerked Angel into the apartment and looked her over. She knew her housecoat was only hastily closed and she tried to adjust Grayson to better cover herself.
A fire. In my apartment. Someone broke a window I think.
Mick stared at her, then started to thrust her aside, determined, she knew, to investigate. Angel grabbed his arm. No! Just call the fire department, for Gods sake.
He shook her off and spared a glance for his mother. Make the call. Ill be right back.
Mrs. Dawson made no effort to stop her son, frustrating Angel beyond measure. She watched the woman pick up the phone and try to make a coherent call, but it was obvious she was hungover.
Gently, Angel took the receiver from her and gave the details as best she could. The man on the other end told them all to vacate the building and that someone would be there right away. Angel prayed Mick would hurry back. Shed never felt so afraid in her life.
Mick stormed back just as Angel was trying to bundle Grayson up. Its okay. It was only a small fire and its out now, but to be safe, lets wait for the firemen outside. He went into his own room and fetched two blankets to bundle Angel in, and then slipped on his own coat.
His mother made grumbling noises and held her head. I think Ill just go over to Jerrys. You can handle this, cant you, Mick?
Mick gave a quick, abrupt nod. Yes. Mrs. Dawson picked up her coat and walked out, one hand holding her head. Micks face looked set in stone.
He took Angels arm and started her outside. Already they could hear the sirens. He put his arms around Angel and the baby, trying to lend his warmth and comfort.
Angel wished with all her heart that he was her son. Thank you, Mick.
He ignored that. First thing once the place is declared safe, youre calling Derek.
She swallowed. All right. ,
You have to tell him everything now, Angel. No more playing around.
I know.
She could feel how tense he was, his anger tangible. Damn, I wish Id seen whoever it was.
Angel was eternally grateful he hadnt.
It only took the firemen minutes to confirm what Mick had told her. Someone had broken her small kitchen window with a rock, then tossed in a bundle of gas-soaked rags. The result had been more smoke than anything else. Mick had smothered the flickering flames with a blanket, much to the firemens disturbance. They lectured him on safety matters, on the importance of walking away from a fire rather than trying to handle it himself. Mick, she could tell, only halfheartedly listened to their speeches.
Endless questions followed, but finally it was all put down to a prank. It was obvious to the firemen that while the fire could have become serious, that hadnt been the intent. More of a lark, they said, their tones edged with anger. Angel didnt tell them about the other threats, the phone calls and the letter. She wanted to talk to Derek first. She had a feeling hed want to be with her when she spoke to the police.
Mick skipped school that day, opting to stay with Angel instead. Hed already missed his morning classes arguing with his mother, whod come home drunk once again. Angel felt for him, even as she gladly accepted his company.
The apartment was a mess, the smell of smoke lingering on everything. All of her clothes stank. She could do nothing about her jeans, but Mick loaned her a fresh sweatshirt to wear. They were in the apartment for mere moments, only long enough for her to gather the necessities for Grayson and a few of her own things. She didnt have apartment insurance, and the thought of the expense of replacing several things overwhelmed her. The firemen had suggested she call a professional cleaner to tackle the smoke damage and the singed areas of her kitchen, but she knew she couldnt afford it. She would have to do the cleaning herself.
Mick hovered over her as she settled herself on the couch in his mothers apartment. He handed her the phone. Call Derek now. Youve put it off long enough.
She sighed, knowing he was right, but not sure how to tell him. He was going to be angry, no doubt about that. And her thoughts still felt so jumbled.
Buying herself a little time, she thumbed through the personal phone book shed retrieved from her desk. Her eyes closed as she thought of all the papers still to be typed, all of them gray with ash dust. How such a small fire had done so much damage she couldnt imagine. Her world was quickly unraveling around her, her choices falling away one by one until now she had no choices at allshe needed Derek. The idea didnt panic her nearly so much as it had only a week ago.
Deciding not to dawdle anymore, she found Dereks work number and punched it in. A secretary answered.
Angel cleared her throat. Id like to talk to Derek Carter please.
A very polite voice regretfully turned down her request. Im sorry, maam. Mr. Carter cant take your call right now.
Angel drew a calming breath and tried to pull herself together. Yelling at a secretary wouldnt gain her a thing. You dont understand. I have to speak with him. Its an an emergency.
There was a slight hesitation before the secretary said, Just a minute please.
But it wasnt Derek who came on the line. Angel didnt recognize the impatient male voice, but at his inquiry, she repeated her request.
Suspicion crept into his tone when he asked, Who is this?
Because she was rattled, Angel answered without thinking. Angel Morris.
Stunned silence followed, then a rough laugh that was quickly squelched. Well, well. Im sorry to be the one to break it to you, sweetheart. But Derek Carter is dead. There was another moment of silence where Angel could hear her own heartbeat, and then he added, Maybe I can help you. What do you need?
Angel dropped the phone as her heart kicked violently in panic. She couldnt draw a deep enough breath. Mick frowned at her and picked up the receiver. Angel?
She shook her head, slowly coming to her feet. She knew her face was white, her breathing too fast. It couldnt be true; it was likely part of the threat, some vicious game to taunt her, confuse her.
A cleansing rush of anger ran through her. First the damage to her apartment, and now this contemptible prank. She absolutely refused to believe it was any more than that.
Mick started to speak into the receiver but Angel snatched it away from him and slammed it down in the cradle. No. Dont say anything else to him.
Him? Whats going on, Angel?
She paced in front of Mick, her stride stiff and angry. He said Dereks dead, but I know it cant be true! It cant be.
Mick frowned. His face turned pale with confusion and concern. Of course its not. He looked undecided for only a second, then determination replaced every other emotion on his face. Come on. He hauled Angel along behind him with a firm grip on her arm.
Where are we going?
To his company. Youll see for yourself that Derek is just fine, and then youre going to tell him everything. This is starting to get too damn weird.
Yes. Angel nodded, not at all concerned with her mismatched clothing, her tangled hair, or her ash-smudged face. She only cared about seeing Derek, alive and well.
Her reaction was telling, she thought, but she refused to dwell on it. He was okay. She was certain he was okay. Her hands shook with anger and her heart ached as she bundled Grayson into a blanket and followed Mick out the door. Once she knew for certain it was all part of the threats, that Derek was indeed fine, she intended to tell him everything.
Shed never doubt him again.
Dane stared around at the solemn faces watching him. He knew his mother wanted to protest this little meeting hed called, but so far shed held herself silent. That alone confused him, because his mother had never been one for circumspection. She had a tendency to go after what she wanted with the force of a battering ram.
Which made her acceptance of Dereks accident all the more suspect. He pushed that aside for the moment.
The meeting wasnt officially with the board; it was a family matter and Dane intended to treat it as such. His two uncles, both older and naturally calm, held positions on the board, but it was their positions as heads of differing departments, as well as the fact they were family, that had guaranteed their presence here now. His mother was again seated to his right. His cousin, an amicable sort in charge of the sales department, was at the end of the table. They were waiting for Raymond and his sister, who had each been attending to previous meetings of their own.
His sister walked in first, looking chic in a stylish business suit, her fair hair loose, her face pale. She knows, Dane thought. His sister was well aware of how he felt about playing corporate head; it wouldnt take much deduction on her part to realize he was ready to make his exodus from the company. He hoped his mother would consider giving the position to Celia instead of Raymond. It would be his recommendation, with the promise hed visit more often if his wishes were met. It was blackmail of a sort, something his mother could understand and appreciate.
Raymond hurried in right behind Celia, straightening his tie and tucking his shirt in more firmly. His hair was mussed, his face flushed. Very unusual for Raymond, who made a great effort to always look immaculate and composed. Dane had the disquieting thought that the two of them had been together, possibly playing around rather than attending to business. What in the world his sister saw in the man, he didnt know. Dane watched Celia give Raymond an inquiring glance, saw him quickly smile and pull out her seat, then take his own beside her. Maybe they hadnt been together, he thought, seeing his sisters dark frown, but at that moment his mother cleared her throat, impatient.
Dane stood. He wanted to get this over with quickly. Hed been at the office for hours now, anxious to get back to Angel. He pictured her lying soft and warm and exhausted in her bed and his groin tightened. He should have been well sated, but he was beginning to believe no amount of time with her would be enough.
He had to tell her everything, to remove all secrets between them. In truth, he should have done so before making love to her, but he hadnt wanted to risk being turned away. Now, he needed her help, both to find the truth behind Dereks death, and the source of the threats against her. In his gut, he knew the two were undeniably tied together, and they needed to share information in order to get to the truth.
Dane now had two agendas, avenging his brother and protecting Angel. He couldnt do either one while playing the role of his twin, with Angel or at the office.
He glanced around the table at the curious expressions of his family. I have a few announcements to make, then you can all get back to your plans.
His mother stared ahead stonily, her mouth pinched, her eyes hard. For the first time, Dane noticed the signs of her age, the tiredness, the brittleness that suddenly seemed a part of her. He turned to his sister and saw that she was staring down at her hands.
Only Raymond seemed attentive, almost anxious, and Dane wished there was some way to exclude the bastard, to kick him out on his ear. But as Celias fiance and his mothers first pick, the man had a right to sit in on any and all business.
To say I was pleased to step in for my brother would be a lie. You all know I have my own business to run and cases are piling up with me absent so much.
His mother shifted, crossing and recrossing her legs.
I never wanted to be a part of this company, at least, not for many years now. Everything is now in order. I think its past time I
A wild commotion in the outer office drew everyones attention. Dane frowned, staring at the closed door and the raised voices coming through it. His mother came to her feet. What in the world?
Raymond also stood, his eyebrows lowered, his eyes flickering back and forth. Would you like me to see whats going on?
The uncles gave a disinterested glance over their shoulders, and everyone started murmuring at once.
The door was thrown open and Angel, looking ragged and harassed and determined, pushed her way in, despite Danes secretarys hold on her arm. Dane felt his mouth fall open, his heart lurch. Behind Angel, Mick hovered, Grayson in his arms.
Angel ignored everyone but him, her gaze zeroing in on him, and then her face crumbled and she cried out. Shed obviously strained her leg again, given the awkward way she rushed toward him.
Dane skirted the end of the table and met her halfway, gathering her up in his arms, filled with confusion. Angel? He stared over her head toward Mick, who looked too grim by half.
She pushed back in his arms, her fingers clutching at his dress shirt. They said you were dead! She yelled the words at him, and now she seemed more angry than anything else. Her face was smudged, her hair wild, and she began to babble. I wanted to talk to you because of the fire, but I was told you were busy and then they came right out and told me you were dead! I had to see for myself. I had to know you were all right. When I got here, they told me Mr. Carter was in a meeting and couldnt be disturbed, but dont you see, I had to have proof. Her hands went busily over his face, reassuring herself, confirming his safety.
Dane glanced around at the stunned faces watching them, aware of the mounting tension, the delicacy of the situation. Everyone was now standing, expectant. Angels babbling barely made sense and he hesitated to upset her further. Few people knew Derek was dead, so who the hell had told her? But first things first. What fire? he demanded, concentrating on the one thing that wasnt guaranteed to get him in any deeper.
Angel drew a shuddering breath. Oh, Derek. Someone threw a mess of burning rags through my kitchen window! Everything in the apartment stinks of smoke.
His mother gasped and went two shades paler, grabbing the conference table for support. Dane, whats going on here? Who is this person?
The muscles in his face felt like iron. Give me a minute, Mother.
Oh my God! Its Angel Morris, isnt it? Celia stepped forward, trying to get a better look at Angel. What in the world happened to her, and why is she calling you Derek?
Dane closed his eyes. He heard the conference room door slam and looked up to see Mick standing against it, Grayson held in his arms, his expression so hard he looked more like a man than ever.
Raymond barked out, Im calling security! and reached for the phone. His movements were jerky and frantic.
No. Dane stopped him with a word, and everyone seemed to turn to stone, frozen and shocked and confused.
This is insane, Raymond argued. Shes upsetting the women! And again he reached for the receiver.
Dane released Angel as she slowly backed away from him. No, Raymond, everything is fine.
Fine? Raymond argued, filled with outraged indignation. The woman is mad, coming in here calling you by your dead brothers name. For Gods sake, man, your mother and sister have been through too much already.
His mother did look shaken, pale and drawn and confused, but Celia looked titillated. Her eyes were bright and wide and didnt budge from Angels face. You are Angel Morris, arent you?
Angel looked around the room at all the avid expressions and she swayed. Dane grabbed her, but she jerked back from him and her expression was so dark, so accusing, he felt it like a blow. Her bloodless lips moved twice before the words finally whispered out. Youre not Derek?
Again Dane reached for her, firmly taking hold of her shoulders while she tried to shake him off. Dammit, Angel, sit down before you fall down. Then he looked around the room and ordered, Everyone out.
His mother started to protest and he said, Now.
Grayson chose that inauspicious moment to give one short, protesting cry. Dane thought it might have been Micks tight hold on the baby that prompted the objection.
Again, everyone froze.
Drawing on lost reserve, Dane again tried to take control of the situation. Mick, I want you to stay. Please sit down so everyone else can leave.
Obligingly, looking as if he wouldnt have left anyway, Mick went to the leather couch and sat. He whispered nonsense words to Grayson and glared at anyone who tried to get closer to the baby.
Dane took Angel to the same couch, trying to support her weight when he saw how badly she was limping, but she sidled away from his touch as if she found him repulsive. Once she was seated, Dane strode over to the door and held it open. All of you, wait outside. Ill explain everything in a minute.
One of his uncles shook his head. Cant wait to hear it.
The other agreed. Always did say that boy knew how to shake things up. They left together. His cousin gave him an uncertain, wide-eyed look and hurried out.
Raymond stopped, holding Mrs. Carters arm. Are you sure you dont require security? he asked. I could get them up here, just in case. Or I could stay with you, as a precaution. You cant be too careful with crazy people.
Dane ground his teeth together, sparing only a very brief glance at his mothers angry, drawn face. Out, Raymond.
Mrs. Carter stared up at her son. Dont trust anything that woman tells you about Derek.
Mother
Im giving you the benefit of the doubt, son. Do whats right, for us and yourself. With that caustic warning, she walked out, Raymond hanging on her arm.
Celia paused in front of Dane. Her lips were trembling, her eyes wet with unshed tears. But she brazenly tried to act in control, unwilling to contribute to the chaos. I hope you know Im not budging from this outer office until you give me a full report.
Dane nodded, appreciating her reserve.
Celia licked her lips nervously, then ventured, I could hold the baby while you two talk.
No! Angel sat forward on her seat, but Dane ignored her, his attention on his sister.
Thanks, sweetheart, but Mick can handle things and the babys already used to him. Celia looked so crushed, Dane touched her cheek and added softly, Get Mother something to drink. She looks ready to faint. And be patient, please.
Celia nodded at him, offering up a shaky smile. Good luck.
As he closed the door, Dane muttered, Im going to need more than luck now. He drew a long, calming breath before turning to Angel. His mothers warning rang in his ears. Would Derek have seen his actions as a betrayal? Had he felt justified in his treatment of Angel? Things had seemed so simple when hed first started this. Now he felt mired in conflicting emotions. But one thing was certain, he couldnt lie to her anymore.
Angels entire posture showed how wounded she felt, both physically and emotionally. She stared at Dane, her expression fixed, her arms crossed belligerently over her chest. As shed been doing since Graysons birth, she held herself together by sheer force of will.
Something inside Dane felt like it was breaking apart. Despite his mothers warning, despite his loyalty to his twin, Dane knew he couldnt ever hurt her again. And that meant he had to give her the full truth. Dereks dead. He died months ago.
For about ten seconds she looked shocked, then she jerked to her feet. Comprehension dawned in her face and her eyes widened on him, appalled. Oh my God.
Dane nodded slowly. Yes, Im the dreaded evil twin, of course. He took a measured step toward her. I can explain everything, honey.
Her eyes went wild. Dont you come near me. I dont want to hear anything you have to say.
Well, youre going to hear it, he said, tightening himself against her disdain. He was well aware of how she felt about him, and the damn reputation Derek had amplified. But it still hurt as he felt her emotional withdrawal, the separation between them growing. He bit off a curse, knowing if he didnt push now, hed lose her for good, along with the opportunity to discover what had really happened to Derek.
Angel
All signs of fear were replaced by anger. Her face was flushed, her body practically vibrating with her temper, her scorn. You miserable lying bastard.
Dane closed his eyes and tipped his head back. He heard Angels furious whispering, heard Mick grumble a reply, and quickly faced her again. Youre not going anywhere, babe.
The hell Im not! She tried to take the baby from Mick, but he resisted her efforts. She turned her cannon on Dane again. You cant dictate to me, and Im certainly not going to listen to any more of your lies. There is absolutely no excuse for what youve done!
Mick glared at Dane, but spoke to Angel. Nothings changed. Theres still someone trying to hurt you, and your apartment is still a mess. Think of Grayson. At least hear He looked at Dane, then shrugged in his direction. At least hear him out. Whoever the hell he is.
Dane tightened his jaw. Dane Carter. The formality of an introduction was ludicrous.
Angel sneered. Derek told me all about you. Youre the worst of the lot!
I was going to explain everything to you today, Angel. In fact, I was just telling my family that I wont work for the company
I dont care what you were telling them.
Angel. He felt hollow inside. Honey, you have to hear me out. The only reason I came back to the company in the first place is because I think Derek was murdered.
He shouldnt have blurted it out like that, but he knew he had to make her listen. Angel wrapped her arms around her middle and sank back onto the couch, slowly rocking. No, no, this cant be happening.
Dane knelt down in front of her. Im so sorry, honey. At first, when you contacted me, I was suspicious of you, thinking you had more reason than most to hate Derek, to want him dead. I thought you might have had something to do with setting him up and then when I came home, you thought you hadnt succeeded. Theres been no official announcement of Dereks death and my family has done everything they could to keep the news quiet. He spoke quickly, hoping to get his explanations out while she was still listening.
She laughed, a harsh, broken sound and rocked that much harder.
It took me only a short time of knowing you to realize how ridiculous that theory was.
No, not at all, she said, her grin twisted and mean. Provoking. I did despise him. Almost as much as I despise you.
Angel, he chided. You dont mean that. Not after last night.
He caught her right fist just inches from his face and stared at her in incredulous disbelief. Dammit, Angel, that wouldnt have been a little ladylike tap! Are you trying to
A split second later, her left fist connected with his temple, almost knocking him off balance and making his brain ring. Goddammit! Dane caught both her hands and pulled her to her feet, struggling to subdue her. If you can refrain from inflicting your vicious temper on my head, I think we can get this all straightened out!
Angel tugged her hands, obviously accepted that he had no intention of releasing her, and went still. Let me go.
Not on your life. We have a hell of a lot of talking to do and I think well accomplish it more easily if my brain is left intact. He lowered his voice to a mild scold, somewhat amused by her despite his still ringing ears. I had no idea you were such a fury. Why dont you just settle down and behave yourself.
She growled, anger flushing her face crimson. Behave myself? Behave myself! Do you mean I should try conniving and manipulating and lying! She jerked against him again, but he held tight. You and your brother are two of a kind.
Dane grew somber. No, actually were not. He let her go and paced two steps away, out of harms reach. Angel, this is the first Ive seen my family in years. We hadnt been on the best of terms, precisely because Im not like them. I dont approve of what Derek did to you
What you did was worse, she growled, then grudgingly dropped back into her seat.
She looked defeated and he hated it. I suppose it was, regardless of what my excuses are. But I want to make things right. Thats what Ive been trying to do this morning. I want to take care of you and Grayson, and dont shake your beautiful head at me! The threat to you is very real, dammit. Derek is dead, and somehow youre tied to it!
She gave him a look of contempt. You think I dont know how serious it is? Someone tried to run me off the road. Thats the accident, you know, that started my labor and injured my leg. I almost died. Obviously whoever did that isnt very happy that I survived.
Every muscle in his body jerked at the ramification of her words. His heart pounded, his knees locked. She could have been killed. And hed been thinking the threats against her werent physical? Goddammit, why didnt you tell me this sooner?
Her brow lifted. Trust goes both ways.
He let loose with a string of curses that had Mick chuckling and Angel frowning.
At first I thought the accident was just thatan accident. I was disoriented for a long time and in a lot of pain after the wreck, not to mention I had a brand-new baby to take care of.
There wasnt a lot of room in my thoughts for suspicions. But then, the phone calls started and I got spooked. Then I had to wonder.
And finally, he said, his voice low and barely controlled, you realized you had to have some help. Thats when you came back to Derek. Not because you wanted to, but because you truly had nowhere else to turn.
She nodded. I thought if nothing else, he might be willing to check into things for me.
They stared at each other, and Dane read her thoughts. Shed been willing to try seducing Derek to gain the help she needed, to get protection for her baby.
She had truly despised Derek, and now she felt the same about him. Angel was still very pale, but more collected. Her eyes glinted with raw determination and he knew it was only her concern for Grayson that was keeping her in the same room with him. He had his work cut out for him. Derek was run off the road. Unlike you, luck wasnt on his side that day.
Angel closed her eyes on a sigh. You should probably know, someone followed us here today. From the time we rushed out of the apartment until we pulled in the lot, we were followed.
Dane hesitated only a second, then stalked to his desk phone and quickly punched out a series of numbers. He waited, but then the office door opened and Alec strolled in, holding up his blinking cell phone. No need to call me. Im right here. Raymond tried to follow him in, but Alec slammed the door in his face.
Angel sank back against her seat with his entrance, but Mick perked up. Its Alec!
The dark visage merely nodded in their direction. I got there too late to find out what was going on until theyd already left the building. His look was reproachful when he added to Dane, You left earlier than I thought you would.
Again Angel surged to her feet. What is he talking about, Der Dane?
Satisfaction settled into his bones. Finally, finally she was calling him by his rightful name. Alec works for me, honey. Im the one who hired Mick, not a friend. And Ive had Alec watching you for several reasons. At first, because I thought you might take off before I could figure out whats going on, whether or not you could give any insight into Dereks death. But then for your safety when I couldnt be there.
Her eyes narrowed. So you told him you were spending the night with me last night?
Mick made a choking sound and got up to stroll to the other end of the room, pretending to keep all his attention on Grayson.
Feeling as if a trap were closing around him, Dane tried for a show of bravado. I didnt have to tell him. Alecs good at what he does or I wouldnt have him working with me. He knew I had gone in your apartment, and he was able to figure things out quickly enough, given I didnt leave right away.
Alec nodded. Thats about it. Only I didnt figure on you rushing off so early today or Id have been there to cover her.
Thats my fault. I made up my mind on what I wanted to do and saw no reason to wait. I should have contacted you.
Angel threw up her hands. Someone should have contacted me!
The conference room door crept open and Celia tried peeking in. Her eyes were huge and went immediately to Alec. Why is he allowed in and Im not?
Dane groaned. The last thing he needed added to the mix was his sisters curiosity. Alec merely turned away and headed for the door, while Celia quickly started backing out. Dane? she called, but Alec kept going until they were both on the other side of the closed door. Dane could hear his sisters loud and nervous protests.
I can always count on Alec to know what needs to be done. Danes smile had no seeming effect on Angel. She glared at him.
Honey, theres a lot we have to settle. He sat close to her on the couch and pretended not to notice her efforts to move away. First off, I want you to know that last night was genuine.
Spare me your diatribe on last night, DerDane. I wont believe anything you have to say about that.
Dane had to trust shed eventually change her mind, but now wasnt a good time to push her. Instead, he concentrated on what had to be done. Tell me about the fire.
She did, in totally detached tones that made Dane want to shake her. Didnt she care about last night? Hadnt it affected her at all? The way she was behaving now, last night might as well have not happened. The timing was unfortunate, but hed been counting on it to soften her some when presented with his truths.
Mick filled in some of the details on the fire, apparently more concerned with it than Angel was at the moment.
Dane decided hed make a quick trip by there to check out the apartment himself. Maybe there was a clue that the others had missed. Ill pay for the damages and the cleaning, Mick, so that the apartment will be as good as new.
You dont need to do that. Its my mothers building. Well handle it.
Danes respect for the youth doubled. Its the least I can do, given all youve done to keep her safe. Seeing that Micks pride would force him to argue further, he added, Angel, you and Grayson can come to stay with me.
She snorted. Not on your life.
Inconspicuously drawing a fortifying breath, Dane took his last shot, and prayed she wouldnt fight him too hard. He knew things were happening too fast, for him as well as her. Without hesitation, hed gladly taken over his brothers life, his role in the company. Hed consoled himself with the fact he was try-ing to find his brothers killer. Even as hed walked through his brothers office and gone through his desk and personal notes, hed been empowered by the fact that he had a mission, a purpose. But now he was taking Dereks woman and son, too, for no other reason than he wanted them. Despite all the very real motives he had justifying his actions, he knew the truth, and it was tough to swallow.
Regret that he hadnt taken the time to make his peace with Derek squeezed his heart. Still, he had to think Derek would approve of what he was about to do. Regardless of how hed treated Angel, Dane refused to believe hed want Angel terrorized, or his son abandoned. Grayson deserved the family name, and the power and protection that came with it.
With renewed resolution, Dane said, It seems like the best solution, honey.
How do you figure that?
Because as soon as I can manage it, well be married.
Angel stared at Derek no, Dane. She had to remember that. This mana man shed slept withwas a total stranger. Hed betrayed her, used her, and as far as she could tell, despite all his assurances to the contrary, he was no different from his family. But everything about him had seemed different.
No, she didnt trust him, and shed been right to fear him all along.
We could make it a Thanksgiving wedding, he said, sounding absurdly enthusiastic. Not very romantic, I know, but there you have it. I really do think the sooner the better.
Angel could only shake her head. Im not marrying you.
Have you forgotten my family, honey?
What a joke. As if she could ever forget such a thing. Its not likely, not when Ive suspected them most from the start.
Suspected them? Dane sounded confused, his eyebrows slowly drawing down.
They, more than anyone, have reason to want me gone. After all, I know firsthand just how unscrupulous Derek could be, when theyre bound and determined to make him out a saint. If I chose to go to the papers
Being snide isnt going to help anything.
Its making me feel a damn sight better!
Angel, my family wouldnt try to physically harm you.
Ha!
He sighed. Okay, look at it this way. Its obvious whoever tried to run you off the road, succeeded with Derek. Now surely youre not going to suggest my family could be responsible for that? The two incidents are too closely related to not be done by the same person or people.
He was right, and that made the peril even worse. When shed thought she knew who was after her, it was bad enough. But not knowing
I just found out about Derek today. Before now, my reasoning seemed sound.
Possibly. I had my own suspicions about why my mother has been so accepting of Dereks death. Normally, shed be looking for a person to blame, and you could have been a target. But I think you may have hit the nail on the head. She knew he was unscrupulous, knew the way hed treated you lacked any sense of professional honor. Could be she just didnt want any reporters getting wind of the story and embellishing on it.
Angels brain felt stuffed to overflowing with problems, and she needed to get away from him so she could think. She looked toward Mick, but Dane quickly regained her attention.
You still need my protection from the family, honey, just not in the way you thought. Look at yourself. You havent made the best first impression on any of them, and believe me, theyll use your little show today to their advantage. Theyll call you a crazy woman running in here all mussed and smelling of smoke. Just the fact of the danger involved is enough to give them an edge. Theyll gladly use anything they can to cow you. My mother would love to claim you unfit, taking into consideration your financial predicament, your insecure life, compared to everything their money and influence can provide
All right! Angel stood and began pacing. It seemed her options were sorely limited, and by her own design, shed put herself in his familys righteous path. She couldnt, wouldnt lose Grayson, not to anyone, not for any reason.
Dane slipped up behind her, not touching her, but his warmth did and her stomach gave an excited little flip. Fool,
she thought, disgusted with herself and her feminine responses to him.
Well, shed wondered many times why things were different now, why she would be more attracted to Derek now after the way hed used her. She had her answer of sorts, the mere fact that it wasnt Derek, but his brother instead. Again, she shuddered with the humiliation of it. Everything Derek had told her of Dane had scared her spitless. Hed been like a dark, silent enemy, someone shed wanted to avoid at all costs. But now, she didnt really fear him at all. On the contrary, she was madder than hell.
As my wife, they couldnt touch you, Angel. Grayson would be safe, and you would be safe, from them and the threats.
Why? Angel whirled around to face him, his motivations very suspect given everything she now knew. It had seemed strange enough that Derek would be interested in her, but then shed found out he only wanted to use her. What could possibly be driving Dane? Why would you want to marry me, damn you?
Danes eyes lifted briefly to where Mick hovered in the corner. Then he leaned down until their foreheads nearly touched. He didnt look at her face, choosing instead to stare at her mouth. Grayson is my nephew, but I care about him as if he were my own. Id gladly kill, or die, for him. And were good together, babe. Last night proved that. His fingers touched gently on her cheek, then dropped away. I think we could make a go of things. Its the only logical solution.
Weary defeat dragged her down and she rubbed her forehead. He hadnt said anything about caring for her. His reasoning was so far from love as to be laughable. But then, she didnt love him either. She didnt. How could she possibly love a man she didnt even really know? She felt boxed in and almost desperate, as much by the circumstances as her own emotional needs. Id want a marriage of convenience.
Dane straightened with a short, curt laugh. Hell no.
Dane
I love how you say that, Angel. You have no idea how damn difficult it was being called by another mans name.
He was impossible and she couldnt deal with him. She felt caught between a good cry and a hysterical laugh.
Dane took her shoulders and gently shook her. Let me take you home. To my house. You look exhausted and we need to talk without the threat of my family bursting in any minute. You need to tell me everything this time; no more secrets. And Grayson needs to get settled down. We have a lot to take care of today.
Since she didnt know what else to do, she finally nodded. Dane let out a long breath of relief and smiled at her. Dont look so glum. Marrying me wont be nearly the hardship youre imagining. I promise.
Her look of intense dislike was rudely ignored.
The outer door opened then and Danes sister marched in, looking militant for all of three stepsuntil Alecs long arm appeared, grabbed her by the shoulder, and tugged her back out again. The door closed quietly on her outraged complaints.
Dane chuckled. I think my sister is anxious to meet the baby.
It was almost impossible to beat down her panic. Dane
Shh. I wont let anything happen to him, honey. Youre going to have to trust me on this.
Before she could tell him she had no intention of trusting him ever again, he continued. Let me do the talking, okay? I dont want my family to know everything yet. My mother might want to start her own campaign to find Dereks killer, and that could put you at risk.
Then what will you tell them?
He shrugged. As little as possible.
He went to the door and opened it. Angel could see Danes sister standing on her tiptoes, one manicured finger poking at
Alec. Angel marveled at how the woman stood up to him, as scary as he appeared, so cold and hard. But Alec seemed to ignore her, arms crossed over his chest, his black gaze pinning Raymond across the room. Danes mother sat quietly beside Raymond, her hands clasped in her lap.
Celia, would you like to meet your nephew?
Halting in midcomplaint, Celia squealed, loudly, which caused Alec to wince. Then he really is Dereks son? I wasnt wrong in that?
She looked so anxious, so excited, Angel felt her heart twist. Dane laughed. Yes, he really is.
Casting only a quick triumphant glare at Alec, Celia rushed in. Alec shook his head and chuckled behind her.
As Celia cooed over the baby, Mick willingly gave him up to her. Seeing her baby in Celias arms made Angel begin to shake. This was exactly what she hadnt wanted to happen, what she had always feared the most.
There was more chaos as Danes family started their interrogation. He gave an edited version of how theyd met and when. He managed to make it sound romantic while excluding any suggestion of suspicions, and explained about Grayson in the process. He told them of the fire and why Angel had appeared looking so harried. They waited to hear why shed called him Derek, but Dane ignored that and Angel realized he had no intention of explaining. It seemed he didnt care what his family thought, and given his closed expression, they were just as reluctant to question him.
How do you know the baby is Dereks?
Silence fell as every face turned to Mrs. Carter. Feeling stiff from the roots of her hair all the way to her toes, Angel met the older womans glare and refused to look away or give any sign of defense. Mrs. Carter could think whatever she wanted; Angel had no reason to be ashamed.
But Dane laughed. Excellent, Mother. If you dont believe the baby is his, then I dont have to concern myself with your interference.
Raymond looked at Grayson over Celias shoulder. I dont remember Ms. Morris ever dating anyone else. In fact, it caused a buzz in the company that she was dating at all, especially that Derek had shown an interest. But the baby is what? A couple months old? Thats cutting it close.
Dane narrowed his eyes, and he suddenly looked near violence. He was born six weeks early.
Ah. Then the timing fits, doesnt it?
Celia beamed. Of course it does. He looks just like Derek and Dane. Mother, I dont have a single doubt.
Angel had always heard what a formidable dragon lady Mrs. Carter was, but now, she looked so vulnerable it pained even Angel. As she approached the baby, she breathed hard, her nostrils quivering as she tried, and failed, to find some measure of control. Her hand came up to touch the babys head. He does have a family resemblance.
Celia smiled and rocked the baby.
Danes tone was very gentle, but firm, and only Angel seemed to notice the way he watched his mother. I dont mean to rush off, but we have a lot to do today and wed better get to it.
Stepping forward, Raymond looked at each family member in turn. He wasnt a scary-looking man, like Alec, but he did appear rather cold and calculating.
Id be glad to help you out around here, Dane. It does seem you have your hands full at the moment, and as youd been saying before the ah, interruption, you have your own business to run.
Angel wanted to deny her familiarity to Dane, but the truth was, she could already read him, and what she saw in his complacent gaze was a sort of evil anticipation. He didnt smile, but she could see the satisfaction in his gaze as he faced the other man. Thank you, Raymond, but I was going to suggest Celia take over. The board will, of course, have to approve her, but with my mothers backing he glanced toward his mother, who gave an imperial nod of her head, but withheld any verbal comment and of course my own, I dont think it should be a problem. Anyone who wants to fight it, would have to fight me. And I assure you thats not a pleasant prospect.
Angel noticed that Dane had just made his sister a very happy woman. Like her mother, she kept still, but as she kissed the baby again, Angel could see a small exuberant smile on her face.
With that apparently settled to his satisfaction, Dane glanced at his watch. We have to get going. I need to get Angel and Grayson settled down in my house.
In your house?
Yes, Mother. Ive asked Angel to marry me as soon as I can arrange it, and shes agreed.
Danes announcement started a new flurry of comments and Angel wished there was some way to remove herself and Grayson. They all deserved to fight among themselves; she just didnt want to take part in it. Mick sidled up beside her, and she had the feeling he was as disoriented by the Carter family as she.
I can keep the baby while you go on a honeymoon.
Angels heart skipped a beat at Celias anxious offer, but Dane easily covered her reaction. His arm slipped around her shoulders and gently squeezed, offering her reassurance, she knew. But with him so close, she felt far from comforted.
Thanks, but were not going to even think about anything like that for a while. And Grayson is too young to be left. If you want to visit him, you can come to the house and sit with Angel sometime. His arm squeezed again, and he added, Call first, though, and clear it with Angel. I know you wouldnt want to wake Grayson from a nap or interrupt his feeding.
Celia looked at Angel, and there didnt appear to be any animosity in her expression. Youll join us for Thanksgiving? Please? I realize its short notice, but then all of this is, and were very anxious to get to know the baby better. Tears welled in her eyes and she snuggled Grayson closer. Hes all thats left to us of Derek, now.
Angel licked her lips, feeling cornered. Celias sincerity smote her, made her feel petty and mean. But she was still afraid, and she refused to trust any of them. I Dane and I will discuss it.
Dane gave her an admiring glance for her tact. Yes, well let you know, sis. It may be well have our wedding by then, if I can get a wedding together in two days. I really have no idea how these things are done.
I can help.
No thanks. Angel and I can handle it, Im sure, once we have a chance to sit down and put our heads together.
Regaining her aplomb, Mrs. Carter said, This is absurd! Ive just discovered my grandson, but youre refusing us any rights. You cant simply cut us out this way. I wont have it.
Dane smiled at his mother. Watch me.
Youve always been deliberately difficult, but this time I insist you be reasonable! Were talking about Dereks son, his heir, and you want to whisk him away?
No one is stopping you from visiting, Mother, as long as you check with Angel first.
Her face flushed darkly. It was apparent to Angel that Mrs. Carter wasnt used to asking permission for anything. Check with her? Dont be outrageous! We have as much right as anyone to be with the child. In fact, more. Her eyes narrowed. And frankly, I think its unconscionable that shes dared to keep this a secret.
Dane stared at his mother, his eyes narrowed. Im sure you can understand her reasons.
Dammit, hes my grandson!
Having heard enough, Angel stepped forward, away from Danes side. She lifted her chin and spoke firmly. But Im his mother.
The two women stared at each other, and Angel had the feeling they were coming to an understanding. It wasnt easy to face the older woman down, but she couldnt allow Dane to continue shielding her. Now that they knew about Grayson, they were bound to have regular contact.
Mrs. Carter looked undecided on how to react, but Celia interceded and smoothed the waters. The important thing is that youre going to be family, Angel. I hope youll let me know if theres anything I can do to help you get settled.
Angel didnt want to be a part of this family; the very thought appalled her. But Celia was so sincere, Angel didnt have the heart or the energy to tell her that. Thank you.
Raymond took Mrs. Carters arm and consoled her, as if shed been horribly victimized. Dane rolled his eyes, then began making plans.
Alec, could you take Mick with you to the apartment and pick up whatever Angel or Grayson might need?
Alec nodded and Angel noticed a look passing between them. She started to question Dane, but Mick looked thrilled for the excuse to be with Alec and Angel couldnt disappoint him by countermanding Danes order.
Then Dane handed Alec a credit card. And stop at the store to buy whatever needs to be replaced.
Angel glared at him. It was time she stood up to Dane, too. She went on tiptoe to look him in the eye, then whispered low, Dont press your luck.
He grinned, but quickly removed the sign of humor. Uh, did you have a better suggestion to make?
No. But youve been steamrolling me and I dont like it. Stop treating me like I cant make my own decisions.
Is that what Ive been doing? His words were soft, intimate. He totally ignored the rapt faces of his family.
Yes, and I dont like it. She tried to sound firm, rather than affected by the tender way he watched her.
Ill try to reform. His sincerity seemed doubtful, but then, right in front of his whole family, he kissed her. It wont be easy though, honey. I like taking care of you.
Bemused, Angel wondered if this was part of his plan to convince his family they were marrying by choice, rather than need. Before she could completely sort her thoughts, Dane took control, settling things to his satisfaction.
Within an hour they were ensconced in his house, a spacious ranch out in the middle of nowhere with a wraparound porch and too many windows to count. It sat about a quarter of a mile from the road and was surrounded by gently rolling hills and huge, mature trees.
Angel had shivered at the isolation of it; her life would be irrevocably changed now, but then, that had been true of so many recent events: meeting Derek, being dismissed from her job, the car accident. Graysons birth. Because of the baby, she couldnt truly regret her ill-fated relationship with Derek.
And if she hadnt met Derek, shed never have met Dane.
That thought shook her, and made her face her own feelings. Lately, shed been so busy surviving, getting through one day at a time, shed almost underestimated how precious life could be. Not once had she ever considered that Derek might be gone. What if it had been Dane? What if the murderer had finally reached her?
Life was too short to carry grudges or pass up chances. The awful fact of Dereks death was just starting to sink in, making her tremble all over again. If she put her emotional hurt aside, she could understand Danes behavior toward her. It hadnt been unconscionable as Dereks had been, but rather motivated by the strong need to find a killer.
Angel intended to help him in his efforts.
She glanced around the house without much interest. It was open and airy, the colors bright and clean. It had been professionally decorated and seemed impersonal to Angel, not at all suited to Dane.
She fed Grayson while Dane grilled her on a dozen questions and she did her best to answer them to his satisfaction. Dane was antsy, pacing around her as he tried to find out exactly when her accident had occurred, when the phone calls had begun. Angel had contacted Derek for the last time when she was five and a half months pregnant. Hed turned her away. Shortly after that, hed died. Two months later, her own car was run off the road, starting her labor. The timing made Dane even more agitated.
Angel put Grayson down for his nap in an empty guest room. Dane lit a fire in the family room then called Alec at , her apartment. Unfortunately, though Alec was very thorough, there were no additional clues to be found there.
Angel was tired, but she had no idea what the sleeping arrangements would be. She assumed they would share a certain amount of intimacy. Dane had certainly been insistent, and with her new revelations, she wasnt averse to the idea. She wanted him; in the middle of all the crises theyd managed to find something very special. Dane made her feel things shed never felt before, things she hadnt even known existed. She had no idea how much time they might have together so she didnt intend to waste any of it.
Which meant she needed to clear the air first. Dane?
He had just hung up the phone and now he lifted his head to stare at her.
I never wished Derek any physical harm. Im so sorry for what happened to him.
Just that quick, the distance between them was narrowed. Dane strode to her, stopping a mere inch in front of her. I dont know if it means anything honey, but Derek regretted what happened. His gaze was searching, warm and direct. Celia claimed he was almost sick with remorse, and that he knew youd never forgive him. She said he seemed preoccupied by it all in the time before his death.
Angel nodded, thinking that was at least something, though she wasnt certain she believed it.
Dane laid his large warm hands on her shoulders and gently squeezed. When I think of all the time we could have saved if either of us would have simply been honest, it sickens me. He drew a deep breath and let it out slowly. Youve been at risk all this time, and I didnt know it. If anything had happened to you
Angel gently laid her fingers against his mouth. He was trying his best, even willing to sacrifice himself to marriage to keep her safe. The least she could do was be totally honest with him. He was right about that.
She tipped her face up to him and had to catch her breath at the tender look in his eyes. Somehow, despite the fact he was the mirror image of Derek, her heart had always known he was different. She still didnt appreciate the underhanded way he had manipulated her, but knowing she hadnt been taken in by the same man twice was a balm to her pride.
He lifted one finger to caress her cheek, unnerving her, sending her thoughts in scattering directions. She smiled. Dane, if youd admitted who you were when I first contacted you, Id have taken off.
He frowned at that possibility.
I was so afraid of you, she explained, of all the Carter family, but especially you. His eyes darkened to golden amber, and her stomach muscles constricted in reaction. She had to force herself back on track.
Derek had told me so many horrible stories of how ruthless and unforgiving you could be.
He pulled her close, pressing her head to his shoulder and rocking her. She had the feeling he was comforting himself as much as her. Derek and I had major disagreements on the family, and on the company. He felt challenged by all the games, while I was sickened by them. I suppose he didnt like it much that I walked away. He hesitated, then whispered, And now hes gone.
Needing to reassure him, Angel pushed back and smiled up at him. He always spoke of you with admiration, making you out to be bigger than life, and twice as frightening. I didnt trust anyone in your family, and there was only a marginal amount of trust for Derek. But deep down, despite everything, I thought hed do the right thing for his son.
Dane pulled her close again. So youre saying its actually a good thing I didnt introduce myself up front? He kissed her chin, featherlight, then her temple. If I had, youd have taken off and who knows what might have happened to you?
He shuddered roughly with the thought, and then he kissed her. All her turbulent emotions of the day seemed to swell and heat into one overwhelming need. She wasnt used to the sexual demands of her body and didnt know how to temper them. All that theyd done the night before, all the ways hed touched her and pleasured her, came swamping back. Heat pounded beneath her skin and her legs suddenly felt weak and shaky. She wanted to lie down beneath him, she wanted him inside her again, making her shudder with nearly painful pleasure. She wanted him to help her forgetat least for a little while.
Let me make love to you, Angel.
The quiet plea was whispered into her ear, his warm breath a caress on its own. She wanted him, and that single focus drowned out everything else.
Hed asked her to marry him so he could protect Grayson. He was noble enough to go to any lengths to make sure the baby was taken care of. And now he needed her, if only in a physical way.
It was such a huge risk, letting her heart get involved when hed made his motivations crystal clear. But she found she had no choice. Shed used up all her energy for the day, and for now, nothing seemed more right than making love with Dane. Yes.
Dane wanted to shout like a conqueror when Angel went soft and willing against him. God knew, after the turmoil of the day, he needed a distraction and he couldnt think of a nicer one than sinking himself into her warm body.
He did nearly shout when her small hand suddenly snaked down his chest and cupped over his fly. He choked and got an erection at the same time.
Angel? Her name was a harsh groan, but he couldnt help that. Too many emotions were slamming into him. Hed planned on wearing her down slowly, using the advantages he had: her love of Grayson and her need for protection, combined with their compatibility in bed. Loving Grayson wouldnt be a hardship; the baby was adorable and had owned Danes heart from the first moment hed met him. And even before hed known Angel had no part in Dereks death, hed felt compelled to protect her. Hed die before he let her suffer the same fate as his brother.
No woman had ever affected him so strongly.
He didnt understand her sudden submission to his lust, not when shed been outraged only an hour or so before, but he wasnt fool enough to question her on it. He covered her small, soft hand with his own and pressed hard, catching his breath at the exquisite feel of her holding him. He watched her bright green eyes widen, saw her lips part on a deeply indrawn breath, and he kissed her again. He wasnt gentle. He possessed her mouth with his own, giving her his tongue and groaning when she sucked on it. Her fingers curled around his erection, stroking, proving what a deft learner she could be.
His revelations of the day, the fear he felt for her, his frustration in being unable to solve the mystery of his brothers death, all clamored inside him. He needed her, her comfort. Being with her overrode everything else.
He lifted his fingers to her breast and teased. Already her nipples were peaked, thrusting against the worn material of the sweatshirt she wore. Dane moved his mouth down to her throat, over the sensitive, ultrasoft skin beneath her chin, then to her ear. When he took a breath, he noticed the smoke smell still clinging to her and wanted to pull her into himself, to make her a part of him and forever keep her safe. She and Mick had claimed the fire to be a mere threat, without the intent of burning her out, but he wasnt so sure and the idea that someone could have gotten to her so easily filled him with an ice-cold rage. He would protect her.
Ruthlessly, hoping to banish the disturbing thoughts, he backstepped her up to the brick wall beside the fireplace and pinned her there with his hips. His hands jerked up her sweatshirt and he covered both plump, tender breasts with his rough palms. Youre mine now, Angel.
She moved against him, inciting him, encouraging him, and he reacted to her on a primitive level. He jerked back, lowered his head and carefully closed his teeth over one erect nipple. Angel cried out. He knew her breasts were sensitive; hed found that out last night, taking extra care with her then. But now, he wanted to dominate her, to make her beg, to make her admit that she needed him, and not just for convenience and the safety he afforded. It was disquieting to feel such depth of emotion with this one particular woman. He hadnt wanted to ever again care so much, not like this. But now he had to admit, especially to himself, that what he felt for Angel had no comparison. It was crazy, given the short amount of time hed known her, but he couldnt fight itdidnt even want to try. He wouldnt feel guilty about it, either. Derek had thrown away his chance to have her. Dane felt guilty for a lot of things, but not for this.
Dane, she cried, digging her fingers into his back, and he relished the small pain for bringing him a measure of control.
Say my name again, he told her as he began unfastening her jeans.
I want you, Dane.
Now, Angel, right here.
Her eyes widened, but he tugged her jeans down to her knees and turned her. Brace your hands on the wall.
Dane? Eyes wide with confusion, she looked at him over her shoulder.
Do it, honey. Not waiting for her to comply, he took her wrists in his hands and flattened her palms on the wall, wide on either side of her head. Now dont move.
He could hear her frantic breaths, her small whimpers, a mixture of excitement and uncertain anxiety. Grimly he smiled as he released himself from his slacks. He was rock hard and throbbing and more than ready to explode. When his arms came around her to ply her breasts, his fingertips plucking at her nipples, his erection just naturally nestled in the cleft of her rounded bottom. Angel gasped, pressing her head back, and at the same time, pushing her hips more closely to him.
He moved his pelvis, stroking her, teasing. He felt blind with lust, but also determined to accomplish his goals. I want to get married tomorrow, no later than Wednesday.
Yes.
A startled squeak escaped her when his arms squeezed her tight, but his relief was a living thing and there was no way to get close enough. He hating rushing her into marriage after everything else shed been through. She deserved a proper courtship, with moonlight dates and flowers and gentle promises, all the things she hadnt had, all the things women wanted. But he had to do what he thought was best for both of them, and right now, tying her to him was his first priority.
Slowly, making himself as crazy as she, he dragged his palm down her ribs to her belly, and when she held her breath he bit her shoulder, a soft, wet love bitethen cupped her fully, taking her by surprise, loving the sound of her startled pleasure as she jerked and moaned.
His fingers gently pressed and found her ready for him, her feminine flesh swollen, the soft petals slick and hot. His middle finger glided over her, barely touching until her hips began moving in a counterpoint. He kept the pressure light and easy, teasing. She tried to hurry him, to encourage him to give her what she now needed, what she desperately wanted, but he resisted. Once, she started to drop her hands but he quickly repositioned her as he wanted her, vulnerable to him, submissive. Judging by the sounds of her panting breaths and raw moans, she loved it as much as he did.
Dane, please
Just as hed plucked at her nipples, he used his fingertips now to torment her again, but this flesh was so much more sensitive, the feelings so acute, she cried out and almost jerked away from him. His free arm locked around her, holding her in place for his sensual torment.
Youre mine, Angel. Mine. His words were harsh, commanding, breathed against her temple as he thrust against her, his fingers unrelenting.
To his satisfaction and deep pleasure, she came.
Her arms stiffened, her head dropped forward and her body jerked and bucked as her hips pressed hard against him. Dane groaned with her, encouraging her, continuing the gentle abrasion of her most sensitive flesh. As she quieted, he praised her, telling her how crazy she made him, how special she was. He had no idea if she heard him, and she gave no reply other than her gratified groans.
Hed never before resented the use of protection, but now, as he fumbled in a rush to get the condom in place, he cursed the use of them.
Angel was barely staying upright, her body now slumped fully against the wall, her arms no longer stiff and straight. Her cheek pressed to the warm brick and he feared the abrasion against her soft skin, so he pulled her away and lowered her to the carpet, entering her at the same time.
Her tight jeans restricted his movements, but it didnt matter. He simply needed to be inside her, like he needed his next breath and the occasional sunshine and a few hours sleep. He needed her.
Riding her hard, pushing errant thoughts of the danger from his brain, he concentrated on the pleasure. Angel didnt join him again, but chose to watch him instead, her eyes soft in the firelight, her body pliant to his urgent thrusts. One hand lifted and she smoothed his shoulder, smiling gently.
Knowing she watched his every move, that she witnessed every emotion to pass over his face, knowing she could see his explosive pleasure as he came, made it all that much more powerful. He didnt disappoint her, and let himself go completely. He ground his teeth together to keep from shouting and strained against her, knowing she had just taken his heart. His body went rigid and he took his own orgasm with a low, endless growl of blinding pleasure.
He loved Angel Morris, he thought as he slumped against her. He loved her more than hed ever thought to love anyone or anything. He loved her enough to give his life for her, to do anything to keep her bound to him.
Well damn, he thought, the effort almost painful to his muddled brain. That sure shot a hole in his altruistic plans of merely offering protection. It was also enough to scare ten years off his life.
Well, that didnt go quite as I had planned it.
The words, so softly spoken, drifted around Dane, but it took considerable effort on his part to lift his head. He felt not only physically appeased, but emotionally full, and he didnt want to move, not yet, maybe not ever. He didnt want to lose the feeling, the closeness, and he didnt want reality, with all the present problems, to intrude. But he finally managed to struggle up onto his elbows.
Angel, tender and warm and womanly beneath him, looked at him with gentle, shining eyes, a tiny satisfied smile on her mouth.
God, he loved her. The profound acknowledgment shook him. Hed been careless with her, and just as hed lost his brother, he could have lost her, too.
He tenderly tucked a pale curl behind her ear. What didnt go as you planned? Did I disappoint you, sweetheart? He asked the outrageous question to give his brain a chance for mental recovery. Looking at her now, with the realization of how easily she could crush him, was going to take some getting used to. He wasnt accustomed to feeling fear, but what he felt for Angel scared him down deep in his bones, clear to his masculine core. It also made him feel near to bursting and kept his male flesh, still buried tight inside her, semihard. Nothing would ever be enough with her.
Feeling the way he did, realizing just how special she was, made him doubt what he knew about Derek. His brother couldnt have used Angel as vindictively as everyone thought.
No man could possibly spend time with her and not appreciate how special, how unique she was.
Her smooth brow puckered as she frowned at him. He had to laugh, and luckily that lightened the moment for him, at least to the point he could talk coherently without fear of professing undying love. Angel had been badly misused by his family, and he hadnt done much better by her, though that would quickly change. He fully intended to rush her headlong into marriage. Burdening her now with his excess of emotion before shed had a chance to get used to the rest would be grossly unfair.
And besides all that, he was suddenly a horrible coward. He simply didnt want to lay his heart on the line, not when the odds were shed disdain his love. She wanted him on a physical level, there was no denying that, not with the heated scent of their lovemaking still thick in the air. And they had the mutual love of Grayson, a binding responsibility for them both. Hed have to build on those things, and hope it would suffice.
Touching his fingertips over one tightly drawn eyebrow, he grinned. How can you look so embarrassed after what we just did? Your pants are around your knees, I can feel your nipples hard against my chest, and youre still holding me inside you. He leaned down and brushed his mouth over hers. So tight, Angel, like you never want to Jet me go.
Dane. Unconsciously, she lifted her hips into his and he groaned.
What didnt go as you planned?
She looked shyly away, charming him anew. That she could be so wild one minute, and yet timid the next, kept his lust on a keen edge, and sharpened the emotional needs he felt to tie her to him, to keep her safe.
I wanted this time to be different.
He laughed again. She never ceased to surprise him. More different than making love against a brick wall with your
Dane, hush! She pressed her hand against his mouth and he kissed her palm, silently laughing.
Im sorry, he said, the words muffled until she drew her hand away. Youre too easy to tease.
This time, I wanted to do stuff to you. It doesnt seem fair the way you always give so much and I just take.
Those overwhelming emotions washed over him again in a wave of heat, stealing his thoughts and turning his body iron hard. He crushed her against him, burying his face against her throat. He was reminded of the near-fire at her apartment by her smoky scent, and the fact that someone was trying to hurt her, and had likely killed his brother. The events that had brought them together were never far from his mind. Because those same events could tear them apart.
Gently pulling away from her, he sat up. Angel started to do the same, looking at him uncertainly, but he stopped her by lifting one of her feet to his lap and removing her shoe. You need a shower and some sleep. And Alec and Mick should be here soon. He caught her pants and stripped them the rest of the way off.
I dont need sleep. I need to see the rest of your house.
And you will. Later, after she was rested up. She may be doing a good job of holding herself together, but he was still running on adrenaline, and a compelling need to ensure her safety. Their lovemaking had only served to blunt the edges of his urgency a bit.
Once he had her naked from the waist down he caught her under the arms and lifted her with him as he stood. He pulled the sweatshirt free, surveyed her naked body with a deep satisfaction, then cupped her face in his hands. You listen to me, Angel Morris. His thumb coasted over her bottom lip and she nodded.
We have plenty of time to play sexually. The rest of our lives in fact because I intend to keep you. For better or worse, for richer or poorer. Eventually, well both get to do some exploring. But dont ever think youve disappointed me. For one thing, its not possible, not when you go so wild when were together. Not when I know that wildness is only for me. Thats more of a gift than most women ever give, and most men ever deserve. Were being forced into this marriage, but the perks, to my way of thinking, are damn enticing.
His gaze traveled from her mouth to her breasts, then down, lingering on the damp curls over her mound. His tone dropped, rough with renewed arousal. As far as Im concerned, I dont have a single complaint. As your husband, Ill have you on hand day and night, and the way I see it, thats a hell of a bargain. All right?
She nodded, but her eyes had gone dark and soft again and he knew what hed said had turned her on, that his words of explanation had put visual images in her mind. Seeing her reaction put them in his mind as well. He hadnt been this horny or insatiable since high school, and he had to wonder just how much of it was based on a desperate need to reaffirm what they had, before it was taken away. Come on. While youre showering Ill keep an eye on Grayson and get us something to eat. He eyed her pale naked body as he led her into the hall bathroom, unable to keep his hands from patting her rounded behind, smoothing over her waist and belly. He drew a deep breath and chastened himself to behave. Ill also find you a robe to wear until your other stuff gets here.
It feels strange, Dane. Being naked with a man, not being the only one to keep an ear trained for Grayson. She drew a breath, watching him closely. Not having to be so afraid.
He hoped that meant she felt a measure of trust for him. Im not going to let anything happen to you, babe. You can rest a little easier now.
She turned to face him as he pulled two thick towels out of the cabinet and set them close to hand.
It feels strangest of all to be in your house. Thats going to really take some getting used to.
Its our house, he said firmly, wanting her to feel comfortable, determined to get her fully enmeshed in his life, so much so she wouldnt be able to help but love him back. When I took over Dereks office, my mother wanted me to move into his house as well. But I drew the line at that. The memories there are too sharp, too suffocating. I feel enough like an interloper as it is, usurping his office, his files his woman.
Angel shook her head. I was never that, not really. Derek and I had a brief fling, but it ended long before he got possessive. Im not sure if he intended to use me all along, or if he just jumped on the opportunity when it presented itself. But almost from the first, I felt more for you than I ever did for him. She looked around, then smiled. Im glad this is your house, not his.
He, too, looked around. I paid to have it decorated because I was clueless and didnt have the time to worry about it anyway, not traveling as often as I did. Its a home base of sorts, but its always felt kind of cold to me. So if you get in the mood and want to change things, go right ahead. Just dont ever let anyone in unless Im here with you.
Im not an idiot.
He nodded agreement. Far from it. But right now, Im not willing to trust a single soul with your safety. The house is secure, but only if you use the security system correctly. Theres an intercom for the front and back door. Dont take any chances, okay?
She gave a grave nod. He didnt want to frighten her again, but they both knew just how much danger she was in. Hopefully living with him would keep her out of harms way while he continued his investigation of Dereks death. He would probably bring the police into it shortly, once hed had a chance to go over things with Alec.
The future stretched out before him, and for the first time that he could remember in too many years to count, he saw more than an endless, empty void. He wanted a future with Angel, with Grayson.
And he wouldnt let anything stand in his way. Not even a murderer.
Mother Nature conspired against them.
Looking out the kitchen window, Angel sipped her coffee and then sighed. Finally the sun was shining again, though she knew the weather wouldnt clear for a while. Record-breaking lows were predicted for the rest of the week.
She also knew Dane was frustrated, that if it had been up to him, they would have been married already. But the most horrendous snowfall of the season, a good twelve inches, had all but canceled Thanksgiving and confined everyone indoors, making a wedding impossible. It had also stalled his investigation, putting personal queries on hold.
Dane had improvised Thanksgiving, forgetting the plan to meet with his familyto Angels relief and Celias disappointment. For lack of a turkey, he made a superb pork roast and surprised Angel with his culinary talents.
It had felt right somehow to spend an evening in the kitchen with Dane, bumping hips and sharing chores, working together. Grayson sat in his pumpkin seat watching them, and the setting would have been picture perfect if it hadnt been for the fact that someone evil was still out there, still a threat, keeping them both edgy despite their efforts to the contrary.
The weather provided the ideal excuse for them to linger in bed, forcing away the dark cloud of menace with an overload of sensuality. Just a few hours ago Dane had awakened her from a sound sleep with warm hands and a warmer mouth, gently encouraging her higher and higher until shed had to muffle her shouts with a pillow. It amazed her that every time with him seemed better, more intense. She wasnt certain how much more she could take, but was anxious to find out.
Hed left her limp and exhausted in the bed. He had kissed the tip of her nose, told her hed be home in a few hours, and then lovingly cupped a breast before turning away and hurrying out. Dane often hurried away from her, as if he were afraid if he lingered, he wouldnt go at all.
Angel had never felt so pampered, or so loved. Only hed never said anything about love.
It worried her, how easily she had adjusted to being with Dane. He was the perfect father to Grayson, the perfect companion to her, even if he was overly autocratic on occasion.
She understood his worry because she shared it. No matter how many times they went over it, they couldnt come up with a single reason for someone to kill Derek and try to kill her. The idea of never knowing, of always having to be on guard, made her angry.
She had just come up from the basement with a large load of laundry when the phone rang. Expecting it to be Celia, whod made a habit of calling daily, she balanced the laundry basket on one hip and used her shoulder to hold the phone to her ear. Hello.
There was no reply, and within a heartbeat the fine hairs on the back of her neck stood up and gooseflesh rose on her arms. No. She forced a calm tone and said again, this time more firmly, Hello? but still received no answer and she quickly hung up the phone.
Frozen, she stood there, trying to convince herself that it was an accident, a coincidence. Not once since shed moved in with Dane had there been a threatening call. There was no reason to think this was one of them. She drew a deep breath and tried to convince herself she was right.
At that moment Dane came in. Snowflakes glistened in his hair and his mellow golden eyes were warm with welcome.
When he saw her just standing there, he hurried to take the basket from her. Angel, are you all right? Have you hurt your leg again?
She swallowed hard and automatically repeated the words that had become a litany. The man was too overprotective by half. Quit pampering me, Dane. Its getting annoying.
I have a cleaning woman for this
Who hired on to do your laundry, not mine and Graysons. Besides, Im perfectly capable of taking care of myself. I dont want a stranger muddling through my things. And, she added when she could see he was contriving more arguments, the maid hasnt been able to come here in this weather. Grayson has laundry that needs to be done every day.
Oh. He looked distracted for just a moment, then suddenly drew her into his arms and swung her in a wide circle. All right, Ill let that go for now, but only because I have a few surprises for you and I dont think youll be properly appreciative if youre angry.
Youve found out something? she asked, her entire body tensing in hope.
Dane lightly kissed the bridge of her nose in apology. No, Im sorry, babe. Theres nothing yet, but were working on it. I contacted a few personal friends in the police department and theyre doing some checking for me, looking things over again. Something will turn up soon, I promise.
Angel bit her lip as disappointment swelled inside her. She didnt think she could take much more waiting. And she knew it was even harder on Dane. He felt compelled to avenge his brother, and to protect her and Grayson. Hed taken on a lot for her sake, and she worried constantly about him. If he got hurt because of her
Hey, no long faces now, honey. He kissed her again, this time more lingering. I want to see you smiling, not frowning.
She considered telling him about the phone call, but at the moment, his expression so expectant and happy There would be plenty of time to talk about that laterif it was even important, which she was starting to doubt. The last phone call shed received had been verbal, and this one had been silent. Likely there was no connection at all, just a wrong number.
Where did you rush off to this morning? she asked, shaking off her eerie mood.
Backstepping to a kitchen chair, he sat and pulled her into his lap. His heavy coat was damp in places and he struggled out of it, then laid it on the table next to the laundry basket. One rough fingertip touched her cheek. My sister is dying to get back out here and see Grayson. And you. Shes overflowing with questions and curiosity.
Celia called at least once a day, and she was always cordial and inquisitive, but cautiously so, as if she were taking pains not to be pushy. Angel couldnt help but like her. The rest of his family had been ominously silent.
How would you feel about having her and Raymond to dinner? The roads are much better today, and with no more snow predicted, by Tuesday they should be fine.
Angel wondered at his reasons for the sudden invitation, but said only, Shes your sister, Dane. If you want to have her over, thats fine. She hesitated, then added, Maybe you should invite your mother, too. It might help to smooth things over with her.
Not yet. He said it easily, but Angel was aware of his sudden strain.
Dane, what ever happened between the two of you? I know Derek told me once that you just didnt see eye to eye, but
His laugh, a sound bordering on sarcasm, interrupted her. A difference of opinion, huh? Well, Derek was right about that. But its past history honey, and I dont want to bore you.
Shouldnt I know whats going on, since the past probably plays a part in the tension now? What if your mother says something? I dont like to be kept in the dark.
It doesnt concern you.
And that, she thought, was the crux of the problem. She wanted everything about him to concern her. Im sorry. She tried to get off his lap, but he made a rough sound at her movement and hugged her close.
Dammit, I didnt mean that quite the way it sounded. He gave her a frustrated look, then shrugged. All right, you want me to bare my soul, I suppose I can live through it.
He was in such a strange mood, teasing one minute, then solemn, then teasing again. I dont mean to push you.
Ha! All right, Im sorry. He tightened his hold on her. Dont rush off.
Angel gave him an impatient look.
All right, dammit, but as soon as I finish this stupid tale of woe, were moving on to your surprise, okay? After a brief hesitation, he said, I was engaged to be married once. His hands looped around her and he looked off to the side, staring at nothing in particular, merely avoiding her gaze.
Mother didnt approve, of course, but then Id already started bucking her on almost everything. Derek went to the college of her choice, I went to a state college. Looking back, I realize how infantile I acted, opposing her just for the sake of opposition, but she was so damn controlling about everything, it just naturally rubbed me the wrong way.
Angel couldnt begin to imagine anyone attempting to control Dane. The very idea was ludicrous.
Both Derek and I had gotten our business degree in the same year my father died. He and Mother had always planned for us to take over, but not that soon. His heart attack took everyone by surprise. Mother, never one to grieve for long, wanted us to jump into the company together. I wanted to get my MBA. Derek was born to run a corporation, was anxious to get started, but I resisted her. I was glad to let Derek handle things, and despite all her carping and complaining, I went back to school.
A heavy silence fell and Angel felt him shift slightly, as if he were uncomfortable.
I met a woman while I was in school, and I wanted to get married. Since that didnt meet with Mothers plans, she did everything she could, including disowning me so I couldnt touch my inheritance money, as a way to discourage me. But the more she did, the more determined I became. When I told her I fully intended to go through with the wedding, she she bought Anna off.
Angel had no idea what to say to that. She waited, hoping hed elaborate. And finally he did.
I dont like to think it was the money that enticed Anna. She wasnt from the same background as me, and my mother intimidated the hell out of her. She spelled out this grandiose life Anna would be expected to live up to and it spooked her. When Mother offered her the money, she took it and walked away.
What a fool, Angel thought. She knew Dane had money, but he didnt flaunt it. His house was very nice, but it wasnt ostentatious. Everything about him was casual and comfortable and understated. Anna must not have known him at all to believe such idiocy. Or maybe it just hadnt mattered to her. Im sorry.
Dane shook his head impatiently. The worst part was, she was pregnant with my baby.
Angel stiffened, seized by a mingling of jealousy and confusion. Where was the child now?
As if hed read her thoughts, Dane gave her a squeeze. By the time Id caught up with Anna, she told me shed lost the baby.
He looked so troubled, Angel curled down against his chest and hugged herself close to him. Shed never before seen Dane like this, and she didnt like it. Dereks death had filled him with calculating determination, with a purpose. His mothers disdain had only seemed to amuse him. But now he sounded hurt deep inside. She preferred his arrogance any day. And at that moment shed have given a lot to ease his pain.
His large hand settled against the back of her head and he idly tangled his fingers in her hair. Ive never admitted this to anyone, but to this day, Im not sure Anna didnt have an abortion. I blamed my mother because it was a hell of a lot easier to blame her than to accept that I might have been wrong about Anna, that I might have made a colossal mistake marrying a woman who didnt care enough about me to believe in me. She told me, rather tearfully in fact, that shed been afraid and taking my mothers bribe seemed her only choice.
Angel could feel his pounding heartbeat, a little faster now, and she slipped her hand inside his shirt, smoothing her fingers over his warm, hair-rough skin. Dane went still even as his breathing changed, grew a little rougher and quicker. Angel pulled his shirt from his pants and pushed it upward, kissing his chest, his small tight nipples. Dane groaned and quickly yanked the shirt over his head.
Whispering against his chest, Angel said, She could have come to you, and thats what bothers you most?
Dane tilted his head back against the chair. She didnt trust me.
I trust you. Ive been trusting you with not only my life, but Graysons. He started to speak and she straightened, cupping his jaw with her palms, holding his head still as she attacked his mouth. Dane groaned again and Angel used that as her cue. With their lips still touching she breathed, Im not like her, Dane. Your mother cant send me away. Only you could do that now.
Rather than answer, he kissed her again, and there was hunger in the way he held her, the way his mouth moved heavily over hers. He might not love her, but he needed her, and from that, love could grow.
He pulled himself away from her with a harsh sound of impatience. Damn woman, you distract me.
Im glad.
Laughing, he avoided her mouth as she tried to capture his again. Your surprise, remember?
We could do that later?
Insatiable wench. Stop that! He caught her hands and pulled them away from his belt. When she pretended to pout, he grinned. Show just a modicum of patience, okay? Now, first off, Mick got your apartment rented, so you can stop worrying about that.
That wasnt at all what shed been expecting. Dane had insisted, against her and Micks protests, on keeping up the rent until Mick found a new tenant. Angel knew Mick and his mother needed the money, and shed felt bad leaving as she had, without notice, but Dane wouldnt hear of her paying the rent herself, and Mick hadnt wanted either of them to pay. He was such a proud young man.
Who is it? Angel still worried about Mick. She talked with him often, but she missed their daily school lessons together. As soon as the weather permitted, she intended to start them back up again. Dane was all for the idea.
Youd never guess so I might as well tell you. He took a moment to build the suspense, but when she gave an impatient growl, he grinned and said, Alec.
At her look of surprise, he nodded. Yep, I showed him the apartment myself. Its not too far from the office, and Mick is a fantastic manager, especially for a kid.
And you wanted Alec there to keep an eye on him, to make certain he was okay?
Not at all. I knew you would worry, and I figured this would put your mind at ease for the most part. But Alec really was looking for a new place, and he likes it there.
Angel smiled at him. Its a wonderful surprise. Thank you.
Thats only part of the surprise. Now dont get angry before you hear me out, okay?
Like a red flag waved before her face, his words had the effect of putting her instantly on guard. She stiffened. What have you done?
Weve agreed that its best to get married, and that means I want to do what I can to ensure you and Grayson are taken care of. I know how you feel about money, but its silly. Thanks to my inheritance
I thought your mother took that!
He shrugged. She gave it back, sort of another bribe to[ bring me back into the fold. Its been sitting in a bank gathering interest because I had no use for it until now.
I dont want you going against your principles for me, Dane Carter!
He laughed. It wasnt a principle. It was plain stubbornness and the fact that I like to prick my mothers temper whenever possible. But since well be married Tuesday morning
Whoa! Angel held out her hands, astounded by having so much information thrown at her at one time. She needed a few minutes to assimilate it all. What do you mean were getting married Tuesday morning? Since when was this decided?
He had the grace to look sheepish. Ah Actually just today. That was another part of your surprise. I talked with my doctor and the lab will do the blood tests tomorrow. As soon as we do that, well head downtown and pick up the license. A pastor from my sisters church has agreed to do the deed on Tuesday.
There was a brief struggle as Angel tried to remove herself from his lap and he was just as determined to keep her in place.
Dane won.
You agreed to marry me, honey. He held her securely, his eyes never leaving hers. There was a look of challenge on his face, and something else, something not so easily defined. Weve made the deal, you and I. Grayson needs me, and Im not about to turn my back on him, not now, not ever. If youre thinking about changing your mind, its too late.
Realization hit, knocking the breath from her. He wanted things confirmed, he wanted a guarantee, and he was afraid to leave it up to her because he thought she might back out. Knowing he felt such an obligation for Grayson, and that he was afraid of losing the baby, was a revelation. But she couldnt merely condone his autocratic behavior. Hed become a tyrant in no time if she let him.
She scowled darkly, and grumbled, Next time, check with me first before you set things up.
His eyes widened and the arrogance was immediately back in his gaze, along with a healthy dose of relief. There wont be a next time, honey. I told you, regardless of why were getting married, its still forever.
As he said it, he leaned forward, then kissed her long and slow and deep. When he pulled away, he whispered, I suppose I should get the rest of it over with.
Theres more?
Im afraid so. He drew a deep breath, then blurted, I paid off your and Graysons medical bills.
She should have expected it. But with all that had happened the last few days, her accumulated bills had been the last thing on her mind. In a way, it was almost a relief to be rid of that particular burden, except that she didnt want their relationship to be about what material things he could give her. She wanted more than that.
When she only narrowed her eyes at him, he continued, evidently encouraged by her silence. I also opened an account in your name. You can add your own money to it if you like, but theres a hefty sum already deposited. Only your name is on the account, so you can do whatever you want with it. Understand, Angel, this isnt for household stuff. If you want to redecorate the housewhich by the way, I was thinking Graysons room could really use some color
Dane.
Come on, honey, dont get all prickly on me. He ran a hand over his head and his frustration was almost palpable, forcing her to hide a grin. As far as Im concerned, what I
have is already yours, only youre being too pigheaded about it to let me take care of you.
Pigheaded? Gee, you smooth-tongued dog, you. You sure do know how to win a gal over.
Dammit, Angel, I am not my damn brother! You dont have to worry about any hidden motivations on my part.
And Im not Anna, she said, just as firmly. I wont be bought off. Youre trying to make sure I have money so if or when your mother offers it, I wont be tempted.
He looked away, his entire body drawn tight, his shoulders rigid, which to Angel was as good as an admission of guilt. When he turned to face her again his eyes were diamond hard and probing. Would you be tempted?
No! Trying to calm herself, and at the same time, sort through the words that needed to be said, she took a deep breath, and then another. It didnt help. Dane, we need to talk. Theres something I really need to tell you.
He stiffened, as if bracing himself. Im listening, he said, but his expression remained fierce.
Grayson chose that unfavorable moment to give his patented, Im awake and I expect some attention yell, effectively diverting them both. Angel gave Dane one long last look before hurrying out of the kitchen. She heard his soft curse behind her.
It was almost a relief to get sidetracked. She loved him, and he deserved to know that. But he already had so much on his mind, it might be easier for him to not be burdened with her love. He wasnt marrying her for that reason, so he might not even welcome her affections.
She needed to give it more thought before she made any grand declarations. After the threats were resolved would have been ideal, but with him pushing for marriage so soon, that was no longer an option.
She changed Graysons diaper as the baby cooed at her, impatiently waiting to be fed, then pulled up the rocking chair in his room. She had just settled the baby against her breast when Dane spoke.
Hes such a little glutton.
Dane stood propped in the doorway, more handsome and appealing than any man had a right to be, especially now, with that boyish look of wonder on his face as he watched the baby greedily suckle. Hed put his shirt back on and had it all buttoned up, the sleeves rolled to his elbows.
At her silence, he walked the rest of the way into the room and knelt on the floor beside her chair. I feel so much guilt, Angel, when I think about what Derek will miss.
Angel silently watched him as he smoothed one finger over Graysons cheek. Aside from the way he treated you, which I really dont understand, he was a good man, and he was a damn good brother. He never gave up on me, never sided with the family against me. Most of the time when we were growing up, we were inseparable, best friends as well as brothers. I loved him a lot, but I cant help but be damn glad that Im the one here with you and Grayson now.
Oh, Dane. Angel felt tears gather in her throat. She could just imagine the hell he was putting himself through, and there was no way for her to help him.
He squeezed his eyes shut, his jaw tight. I have to find out what happened to him. Its the very least I owe him, for having my life when his is gone, for taking over where he left off.
Derek chose his own paths, Dane. You cant blame yourself.
He looked away, his face grim. If Id have come back instead of being so stubborn, I might have been able to help him. He might still be alive.
And we wouldnt have found each other. Angel shivered with the thought, then felt her own measure of gripping guilt.
The baby, recognizing Danes voice, released Angels nipple to turn his head. He stared at Dane, his blue eyes alert. Dane smiled, though his expression was still sad. I love him, you know.
Angel nodded, a lump of emotion gathering in her throat.
Dane came to his feet and dug into his pocket. I bought you this today. At least this time you can grant me the traditional rights of the groom to spend my money. He handed her a small black box, then gave his attention back to Grayson. The baby stared at him a moment longer before going back to his feeding. Some things were simply more important than others.
Awkwardly, Angel managed to open the small box. Her hands shook and it was difficult maneuvering with the baby in her lap. Inside the box, nestled in cream velvet, was the most beautiful diamond engagement ring shed ever seen. It was large, but not too large, an oval diamond surrounded by rubies. Breathlessly, she whispered, Its incredible.
Then you like it?
Dane She reached for him with her free arm and somehow he managed to embrace them both, making Grayson squirm in protest.
Why dont you finish what you were going to tell me before I have to go out again.
Surprised, she asked, Where are you going now?
Dane took the ring from her and slipped it on her finger. He seemed pleased by the snug fit. Im going to close out your post office box. Its too far from here to do you any good and besides his gaze met hers in a challenge with the threats against you, I want anything and everything that concerns you to come by me now, at least until things are resolved.
Angel curled her fist tight around the ring. Thats fine. I havent used that box in ages anyway, not since I left Aeric. Take the key from my key ring. Its hanging by the phone in the kitchen.
Dane couldnt quite hide his satisfaction. She saw no reason to fight him on this, not when she didnt use the post office box anyway. Now what were you going to tell me?
She needed more time, she thought. Tonight, over dinner, without interruptions or the distractions of wedding dates or suffocating guilt, shed tell him she loved him. But not now, not when they both felt confused and he was ready to head back out the door.
Angel? .
I dont want Grayson to be an only child.
Dane blinked at her, his gaze sharpening. What did you say?
Heat rushed into her cheeks, but at least she was giving him a truth. I never had any brothers or sisters and it was awful. I I know well be married for practical reasons, but I want another child. I thought you deserved to know that before we marry. Just so youre prepared.
Dane searched her face in silence for several moments, looking more shocked than dismayed. Slowly, a smile broke over his face. He looked at Grayson and chuckled as the baby made grunting, squeaking noises while he nursed. Nothing would make me happier, honey. As long as we wait a while so youre not overburdened. I want your leg to heal completely and I dont want Grayson to be cheated out of being a baby. Just as you had no siblings, I had one that got half of all my parents attention. Im not complaining, but I think there must be a happy medium. And keep in mind, you run the risk of having twins with me. Three in diapers would be a bit much for even the most determined parent.
He hadnt refuted their reasons for marrying, but she wasnt discouraged. The practical reasons did exist, but there was also the love she felt. And tonight, shed tell him so.
Dane stood beneath the post office overhang while the freezing wind whistled around him, blowing open his coat, pelting his face with a dusting of snowflakes caught in the frigid gusts. Nothing could penetrate the heat of his rage.
With deliberate movements he uncurled his fist and stared again at the name on the large manila envelope. His brother had sent Angel one final message.
The overwhelming urge to tear the envelope open was difficult to resist, but Dane knew in his heart he had to bring the letter to Angel. Not only was it a violation of her privacy to look inside, but she might take it as a measure of distrust as well. It could be a love letteror it could be the information, the missing link to the threats, that theyd been looking for.
He didnt want her hurt.
He didnt want anything his brother might have put in the letter to cause Angel more heartache. And he didnt want to suffer the sweltering jealousy he now felt that was enough to ward off even the worst winter had to offer. Damn it. He didnt want his brother eulogized in Angels heart with a final farewell.
Conflicting feelings of grief, guilt and possessiveness jumbled his thoughts.
The postmaster had watched with a jaundiced eye as Dane tossed out the majority of the mail unceremoniously stuffed into the large mailbox. Dane had only briefly glimpsed the numerous sale ads and magazines and offers before Dereks letter caught his notice. Now, with stiff steps and an anxious stride, he headed for his car. He couldnt understand his own urgency; he just knew he wanted to be with Angel and Grayson. He needed to know they were okay.
It took him all of five minutes to realize he was being followed. Using his cell phone, he impatiently dialed Alecs number.
Sharpe.
Im being trailed, Dane said, no other explanations needed.
Im on it.
Over the past few days Dane had been aware of being followed. He couldnt get close enough to figure out who it was, so hed alerted Alec to watch his back. Dane had told Angel he didnt want her out in the cold, but in truth, he wasnt willing to take the risk that whoever it was might be able to get to her. He preferred keeping her at home, safely behind locked doors and away from any threats.
This morning, hed specifically opened the account in her name so shed be protected financially if something happened to him. Shed accused him of not trusting her, but that was no longer true. He simply wasnt willing to leave her future to chance. Though hed told her the sum in the account was hefty, he knew she couldnt begin to guess the amount. And he wanted it that way. Angel had a prideful tendency to fight him on every little thing he tried to give her. When she saw the bank records, shed hit the roof. He smiled in anticipation. In some perverse way, he enjoyed arguing with her as much as he enjoyed loving her. Things would never be sedate between them, that was a certainty.
Alec shouldnt be very far behind, and now with Danes signal, hed close the gap and they would trap the driver between them.
Dammit! Dane muttered the curse into the open phone line as he saw the car swerve away.
That him taking the entrance ramp to the highway?
Dane watched his suspect speed away and knew, whoever the man was, hed been on to them. Yeah, that was him. How did he figure us?
There was a shrug in Alecs tone. Maybe he didnt. Maybe he was going that way all along.
Nope. He was following me, I know it.
Want me to go after him?
Dane considered it, then shook his head to himself. No, theres no point. Im heading home to Angel and staying there. Though I doubt itll do us any good, run a quick check on the plates, just in case we can get lucky for a change. Dane didnt for a minute doubt Alec had the plates memorized. Not much ever got by him.
Ill get right back to you.
Less than three minutes later, Alec had his news. Both he and Dane had cultivated contacts in every facet of the police force. The information they received, and how they received it, wasnt always on the up and up. But it was generally beneficial to all, so the cops tended to work with them. The license plate shows a newly rented car.
Dammit. Dane thumped his fist against the steering wheel, his frustration level high. That means the name its registered under is likely false.
Yeah, fraid so. You want me to go check into the rental agency where the car came from?
Theres no point. Whoever it is, hes covering his ass. I doubt hell make any mistakes this late into the game. With an irritated sigh, Dane suggested, You might as well take the rest of the day off. Ill let you know if anything comes up.
All right. I do have a few personal things to take care of.
The line went dead before Dane could question that cryptic comment. It was the first time in the history of their acquaintance that Alec had ever alluded to a personal life. Though Dane was certain he must have one, hed never mentioned it before.
It only took Dane another fifteen minutes before he pulled into the garage. As per his instructions, Angel kept the alarm on, and all the doors and windows locked. It was a hell of a way to live, constantly being on guard, but maybe with the help of Dereks letter they would be able to put the past, and the threats, to rest.
After turning off the car he used his remote to close the garage door. As he came in through the kitchen by the door that attached to the garage, he heard Angel laughing. Following the sound, the manila envelope still clutched in his hand, he found her sprawled on the family room carpet before the fireplace. Grayson was held over her head, and each time the baby gurgled, she laughed and lowered him for a tickling nip of his pudgy belly.
Without intruding, Dane watched their antics, a small smile on his face. Damn, but he loved her. The feeling was starting to settle in, not so scary now, more like a necessary part of him was finally working as it should. He pictured Angel with a baby girl, as well, his daughter, a child that would look like her mother, have her bright green eyes. Hed missed being a part of her pregnancy with Grayson, but this time, hed be here. Im sorry, Derek. But shell be my wife.
When did you come in?
Dane hadnt even realized shed turned to him, hed been so caught up in the comforting images of baby and home and hearth, images hed long ago given up on. Just a minute ago. He strode over and sat cross-legged beside the two of them, reaching out to take Grayson into his own lap.
What do you have there?
Angel looked at the envelope, her expression inquiring. Its for you, honey. He let her know by his tone the seriousness of the envelope. Derek evidently sent it to you. Its postmarked some time ago, from before his death. Havent you checked your box at all?
Angel stared at the envelope like it was poison. There was no reason. I only used it for the information my supervisor wanted me to work on at home. Files he wanted me to prepare before he made a presentation. He didnt trust very many people, or the regular mail. He figured a locked post office box was the most secure way to go. No one knew the number except the two of us.
And Derek.
She nodded. I usually kept those files locked up. But I was.. anxious to see Derek one day, so I just stuck them in a desk drawer when he called to say he was coming over. I never considered that he might go through my personal things. He must have taken the box number off the envelope.
Dane hated hearing about her and Derek together. He didnt regret loving Angel, he couldnt, but he sometimes felt as if hed stolen everything good from Derek. Forging his place in the family had never mattered to him, but it had been everything to Derek. Now Dane had taken Dereks place in the family, and in the office.
Hed gladly give up both those dubious perks, but hed never give up Angel or Grayson.
He knew the night Derek stole the information from Angel was the same night hed taken her to bed. For that reason, more than any other, Dane had hesitated to discuss it with her. The thought of Derek with her, how hed hurt her, was almost too difficult to contemplate.
I was asleep when Derek went through my desk, she said, her tone flat. We were never.. intimate after that, and a month later, he dropped me.
Several silent moments passed, then Dane tried to hand her the envelope. Go ahead and open it.
With a shudder, Angel pulled back. No thanks. Id rather you did it.
Are you sure? Even as he asked it, Dane was laying Grayson aside on the blanket. The baby turned his head and directed an intent gaze at the bright flames in the fireplace.
Dane slid a finger under the flap of the envelope and pulled it open.
There were several printouts inside, and Dane scanned them quickly. These are details outlining industrial espionage at Aeric. His blood surged with the ramifications. He lifted one paper after another, finally coming to a personal note addressed to Angel.
What? Angel scooted around to peer over Danes shoulder. She picked up the discarded printouts and studied them.
Dane laid the last paper aside and stared at Angel. When she felt his gaze, she looked up.
Im sorry, honey.
What is it, Dane?
He touched her cheek. Derek was trying to protect you. Dane lifted the sheaf of papers, holding them out to her. He sent you these as an explanation of why hed gone to so much trouble to alienate you, why he specifically did it so publicly. He wanted everyone to think your relationship was over, that you meant nothing to him. He suspected some level of danger after hed discovered several discrepancies in various Aeric research files, shortly after stealing that information from you. He wasnt certain what was happening, but when he investigated further, small accidents started to happen to him. He was afraid youd be in danger too, by association. Dane touched her cheek, then forced the words out despite the tightness in his throat. Derek had no problem doing what needed to be done for the takeover, he saw that only as good business, part of the corporate game. But he hadnt deliberately planned to hurt you in the bargain. He cared for you, honey.
Angel squeezed her eyes shut and swallowed hard, clutching at Danes hand. Dane knew, without asking, the regret she felt because he felt it, too.
The sound of a gun cocking seemed obscenely loud in the silence of the room. Both Angel and Dane jerked up their gazes, and there stood Raymond. The forty-five in his hand made an incongruous sight with his three-piece suit and immaculate presence. Well, I commend your investigative skills, Dane. Of course, your damn brother pretty much spelled it out for you, didnt he? I knew he was too thorough not to have something written down. And Ms. Morris was the likely person to have the info.
Dane quickly tried to cover his shock, to act calm and in control. He was very aware of Angel sitting frozen beside him. So thats the reason youve been harassing her?
Raymond shrugged. I lost her for a while there, you know, after she moved. It was tedious finding her phone number again, but I had no idea where shed gone. Unlike you, I dont have connections in these matters. It was rather frustrating, never knowing when she might resurface, if shed try to discredit me with that damn information your brother put together.
I tried to hedge my bets a bit by telling your mother, regretfully of course, what a bitch Angel was, how shed used Derek, how she was likely to come sniffing around with blackmail in mind. I had half hoped shed find Angel for me, but your mother is getting old and has no taste for revenge. She only hoped to avoid a scandal. Luckily for me, youre not nearly so derelict in your familial duty. Raymond grinned. You led me right to her.
Bastard. Dane came smoothly to his feet and deliberately stepped in front of Angel and Grayson, shielding them both with his body. You killed Derek.
Now that, he said with a shrug, was an honest accident. I knew hed been playing detectivefunny that the two of you were even more alike than you knew. But he proved to be rather proficient at it. I tried a few minor scare tactics, and for a while there I thought theyd worked. But the bastard was just biding his time, letting months go by, waiting for me to make another move. He was careful not to call in the authorities, not wanting to scare me off. Raymond held up two fingers, a millimeter apart. He came that close to nailing my name to his damn discoveries after I thought the coast was clear again.
My brother was no idiot. And he would have taken any theft from a company he owned as a personal insult.
Raymond laughed. He was a wily bastard, Ill give him that.
It almost sounded as though Raymond had respected Derek, had maybe liked him. Dane felt sick with disgust.
Needless to say I had to up the pressure to get him to back off, but the fool didnt drive quite as well as Ms. Morris.
Dane had to fight the urge to lunge at Raymond. Only the fact that doing so would put Angel in more danger kept him still, but he didnt like it. Every muscle in his body twitched with the almost unbearable need to do physical harm. How did you get in here?
I beat you home. Yes, that was me following you. Of course, as soon as I realized you had sicked your watchdog on me, I veered off. Mr. Sharpe really is a nasty-looking fellow. He gives me the creeps.
Alecs good at what he does.
It doesnt matter now, does it? Raymond smiled his perfect artificial smile. As I was saying. It was easy enough to swing around and with a heavy foot on the gas pedal, I was able to get here before you. I hid in the bushes. Not very dignified, but then, you gave me little choice. When you started to close the garage door, I slipped a small wedge underneath it, and rather than closing tight, it reopened on its own. 1 waited just long enough to see if youd double-check it. But you were in too big a hurry to see your ladylove. Such a hurry in fact, that I believe the two of you will elope. He grinned, his expression taunting.
Dane tried to calm his racing heart and his anger. He needed a cool head to deal with Raymond. He only wished hed trusted in his instincts earlier and not given Raymond the benefit of the doubt. He should have beat the details out of him when he had the chance.
Determined to keep Raymond talking, he asked, Was that you in the bar with Derek the night he died?
Raymond looked briefly surprised. You are good. And yes, that was me. I offered to take Derek out slumming, just because hed become so maudlin with all his investigations and his regret over Ms. Morris. Thats how I knew it wasnt over between the two of them. Women threw themselves at your brother, and he turned them all down.
Angel made a small sound of distress, but Dane ignored her. He didnt want Raymonds attention to waver to her.
I had hoped hed confide in me, but he was keeping his secrets to himself that night, no matter how much booze I poured down him.
Dane suppressed a growl. Alec was the one who discovered Derek had been to a bar that night. He also dislikes you on instinct. If I disappear, hell be all over you.
Raymond looked briefly alarmed by the prospect, then he visually shored up his confidence again. Once Im married to Celia, he wont dare touch me.
Dane narrowed his gaze, trying to figure ahead. My sister isnt an idiot. Shell never marry you.
Raymond laughed. Shes anxious to be married. His gaze flicked to Angel and quickly back again. And your mother, now that youve defected to the enemy camp, is anxious to turn the company over into my capable hands. In fact, I believe your mother would give me control whether Celia married me or not. But Ive decided I want Celia. It seems like nice insurance if anyone should ever discover you didnt elope.
Ill kill you.
Raymond merely laughed at the threat. Not that your mother will question it, will she, Dane? After all, this wont be the first time youve walked away from your family without a backward glanceboth times over a woman. You know, your mother has been trying valiantly to keep her mouth shut, to avoid just such a situation, hoping to make amends. Ah, you didnt know that did you? But Ive become something of a confidant for her, and shes told me all about how she regrets the past. Too bad you wont have a chance to forgive her, to put her poor old mind to rest. Shell have to spend the rest of her days with regrets.
Angel staggered to her feet beside Dane and when he would have pushed her behind him again, she forced her way forward. Youve set yourself up a small problem, Raymond.
Whats that? he asked with a touch of amusement. Obviously he believed he had everything well in control.
Id already suspected you. And I told people. The police have it on record that I thought someone was trying to kill me.
They didnt believe you though, did they? Raymonds smile was smug. You didnt have enough proof. And I was careful, even with the smoke-fire, to keep the threats from being too serious, gaining too much attention. He laughed at Angels comprehension. Yes, that was a nice touch, wasnt it? Running you out of your apartment and then intercepting your phone call at the office. You reacted just as I planned, showing up at the company like a wild woman, demanding answers. I had hoped once you knew the truth, that Dane was only using you, youd have enough pride to walk away from him. That would have made you more vulnerable. But no, you decide to marry the bastard.
He looked briefly beyond anger, almost enraged. Dane braced himself, but Raymond shook off his anger, his smirk once again in place. I have everything planned. And unfortunately for you, both Celia and Mrs. Carter will back up the theory that you ran off together. Thanks to the information I sold at Aeric, and your sisters cut in the family coffers, I should be able to live rather comfortably from here on out.
Dane took a small step forward. Youre an idiot, Raymond.
Will anyone believe I abandoned my company? Think about it. I walked away from my family, but I never shirked my own responsibilities.
Raymond shrugged again, totally unconcerned. So now youre in love. Whos to say what youd do?
Grayson made a cooing sound and for the briefest moment drew Raymonds attention. Dane started to move, but the gun was quickly leveled at his head. Ah, ah. I really dont want the mess of it here in the family room.
Angel shifted beside him and Dane grabbed her arm. Youre not going to hurt my baby, she said, her voice low and fierce as she pulled away from Dane.
I really hesitate to. After all, Im not a monster. And the child seems to have softened Mrs. Carter quite a bit. But I see no way around it.
Angel stiffened. When she spoke, her tone was so mean even Dane blinked. You cant kill us both at the same time, she taunted. Try it, and one of us will be on you before you can take a second aim. She slipped farther away from Dane, spreading out, making it more difficult for Raymond to maintain control.
Pushed past his composure by her goading, Raymond lifted his arm, taking point-blank aim. His eyes narrowed and his mouth drew tight. Dane felt Angel tensing beside him and realized in horror what she intended. She would attack Raymond, giving Dane the upper hand. The little idiot would sacrifice herself. Panicked, Dane prepared to beat her to it, ready to leap on Raymond full force. He could only hope Angel would use the moment to grab the baby and run.
In the next instant, a shrill screech filled the air, loud and outraged. Dane instinctively leaped toward Angel, pushing her behind him as he stiffened for the additional threat. But they werent in danger.
Raymond, wide-eyed and frantic, tried to turn. He wasnt fast enough.
Celia lunged around the corner from the kitchen to the family room, still screaming and viciously swinging a heavy crowbar. Raymond ducked, but the length of iron connected with his elbow with satisfying force. There was a sickening crunch as bone gave way, and the gun fell to the carpet. Raymond screamed in agony, his arm hanging at a grotesque angle by his side.
You miserable worm! Celia yelled, the perfect epitome of a woman scorned. She hit Raymond again as he tried to roll away, this time thumping the bar against his thigh and eliciting more screams. Dane had no doubt the mans arm was broken, and he couldnt be all too sure of his leg. Celia would have delivered a final blow to his head, ignoring Danes curses as he reached for the gun, but Alec came storming in and grabbed her from behind. She struggled, and Alec had a time of it subduing her, but finally she calmed.
Alec still held on, his arms circling her, making soft hushing noises in her ear until the tire iron fell to the carpet by their feet. Celia turned in his arms, weeping.
Dane looked at Angel. He was breathing hard, the adrenaline still rushing. Are you okay?
She had Grayson squeezed tight in her arms, gently rocking him, kissing him. Tears rolled down her pale cheeks. The baby and Raymond seemed to be vying for the loudest cries, Raymond out of pain, Grayson out of upset. Angels watery gaze met Danes and she nodded. He could see her body shake as she drew in jerky, uneven breaths. Yes. Were fine.
Dane pulled her close and tried to comfort her as best he could, but he himself was shaking with residual fear. Never in his life had anything ever terrorized him like knowing Angel could be shot and even killed. He kissed her full on her trembling lips, verifying her safety, her vitality and warmth. Then he turned to his friend, Angel still tucked safely to his side. He didnt know if hed ever let her go again.
Damn, but Im glad to see you, Alec. It didnt matter that his voice shook, that his eyes felt glazed and moist. All that mattered was the feel of Angel beside him, safe and sound.
Alec smoothed his big hands up and down Celias back. I followed her. I dont know how she knew what was going on, but I could tell she was upset.
Celia pushed back from him. You followed me?
Alec looked down at her, pushed her head back to his shoulder, and said, Yeah.
Dane grinned. In the midst of all the chaos, he found Alecs actions incredibly humorous. Well, Ill be.
I already called the cops, Alec said, ignoring Danes laughter. They should be here any minute. Dammit, will you shut up? he said to Raymond, while maintaining his tight hold on Celia. Youre lucky I didnt let her kill you.
Again Celia pushed back. Why didnt you? He deserves it.
It would have complicated things, especially for you.
Oh.
Angel stepped away from Dane, then cautiously around Raymond, who was obediently silent. When she reached Celia, she touched the womans shoulder. Thank you. You saved our lives.
Celia sniffed and pulled away from Alecs masculine embrace while still standing very close to him. She wiped away her tears and then frowned at Alec, as if some of the drama was his fault. With an obvious effort she returned her attention to Angel. I caught Raymond making a phone call today, but he hung up real quick when I came in.
Angel gave a quick peek at Dane and he frowned. Had she gotten a call and not told him? Angel?
She shrugged, but he could tell the careless effort cost her. He didnt say anything, Dane, so I thought it was just a wrong number. I was going to tell you, but we got distracted.
Dane would have had more to say about that, but Celia sniffed again. Several times now Raymonds not been in his office when he should be. He was acting funny the last few days. I thought he was cheating on me. I knew he was up to something, but I thought it was just another woman, not not this! She indicated the entire mess with a wave of her hand.
Alec grunted. Why the hell would he be after another woman?
How should I know? she snapped. He was sneaking around, showing up late. But then I had his letter of recommendation from Derek checked and found out it was forged.
Alec looked livid. So you just decided to follow him and could have gotten yourself killed as well! He bent down so he could stand nose to nose with Celia. What the hell did you ever see in him in the first place?
Angel grinned at Dane while the other two continued to argue. Dane shook his head and pulled Angel close again. He was almost afraid to stop touching her, reassuring himself she was truly okay. If this isnt the most bizarre thing thats ever happened, I dont know what is.
As Dane spoke to her, Angel turned her gaze on Raymond. He wouldnt be walking any time soon. Angel shivered, and that made Dane furious all over again.
Id like to kill him with my bare hands.
Angel touched his mouth. Shh. Dont say that, Dane. Its been awful, and youve lost so much, but I want it to end now. For all our sakes.
Grayson gave a last shuddering sob and snuggled close.
Dane pressed his lips to the babys forehead. Me, too. God, I was afraid for you and Grayson.
Angel sighed. Oh, Dane. I feel awful. Your brother wasnt the villain after all. He was trying to protect me.
He smoothed her hair back from her face. Thatll be a comfort to my mother, I think.
Your mother! Angel blinked up at him. Raymond said she was sorry, that she wasnt ignoring us because she was mad, just being careful not to say anything that might drive you away again. You need to talk to her, Dane. When I think of her suffering
Police sirens sounded in the distance. Ill settle things with my mother, honey, just as soon as we get things taken care of here. And then, he added, cupping her face and holding her close, you and I are going to talk. I have a few things to say to you, Angel Morris, and no matter how angry you get, youre going to listen.
Angel watched Dane pace around the bedroom as Grayson began to doze in his strong arms. Dane wore only his slacks, and those were undone. His bare feet left impressions in the thick carpet and the flexed muscles of his forearms left an impression on her.
Love swelled, making her warm and shivery at the same time.
It had been a long day, filled with police interviews and questions and confrontations. Grayson had a difficult time settling down, too many strangers invading his small world at one time. But he charmed the detectives whod run the investigation, as well as Danes mother once she showed up. Angel smiled again. She was actually beginning to like Mrs. Carter. How could she not when the woman obviously adored her son and grandson as much as Angel did? Oh, she tried to hide it, but tonight her defenses had cracked just a bit, and Angel had seen the woman beneath the iron.
Do you think its okay to put him in his crib now? Dane whispered, not halting in his even strides around the room. Grayson nestled close against the warmth of Danes broad, naked chest, one small fist clutching his chest hair.
Angel smiled and laid her brush aside. She was freshly showered and in her nightgown, exhausted, but at the same time elated. Everything was over, all the fear and bad feelings and hurt put to rest. Her confession had been on the tip of her tongue when Grayson had begun fussing. Do you want me to take him?
No, I can do it. Dane gave her a long, sizzling look. Why dont you get under the covers? Ill be right back.
Her heartbeat picked up its pace and she slid into bed. When Dane returned, he removed his slacks, laid them over the back of a chair, then faced her with his hands on his naked hips.
Angel smiled. If you ran a board meeting like that, youd be sure to have everyones attention.
He looked chagrined for just a moment, then dropped his arms and started toward her. Right now, I only want your attention.
Angel eyed his naked body. You have it.
Angel He growled her name as he climbed into bed beside her.
Your mother is a proud woman, Dane. It hurt me to see her so upset.
He stilled his hands, which had been in the process of removing her nightgown. I know what you mean. It nearly broke my heart to hear her admit to so much guilt. She said it was so hard losing Derek, and the only solace she could find was that maybe Id finally forgiven her.
Angel stroked his head, knowing what his mothers confession had done to him. Im proud of you for how you handled it.
I wish Id known how she felt long ago. Maybe it wouldnt have gone on for so long.
Youre both too proud for your own good. But your mother is making the attempt to accept me.
Ha! Dane pulled down the right strap of her nightgown and cuddled her bare breast in his rough palm. My mother adores you. She hides it well, but thats just how she is. I think she sees you as a link, a way to soften our reassociation even though I told her all was forgiven. And there were tears in her eyes when she finally got to hold Grayson. He kissed the slope of her breast, his mouth warm and gentle. Thats the first Ive ever seen her cry. You know, shes going to spoil him rotten.
Thank you for refusing her and Celias offer to keep Grayson. Im not ready to be separated from him yet. Not after being afraid for him for so long.
Me, either. Maybe when Im old and gray Ill be ready to let him out of my sight. But for now, they can visit him here, and well make a point of visiting them often.
They were both silent for a moment, Dane busy in his minute study of Angels skin, caressing her, kissing her, Angel trying to formulate the words she knew she needed to say.
My sister is holding up well.
Diverted, Angel asked, Did you get a chance to talk alone with her?
Yeah. I dont think she ever would have gone through with the marriage to Raymond. She was as suspicious of him as I was. Angel felt him tighten and knew he was reliving the horror of the afternoon. He pulled her close and buried his face in her breasts. You could have been hurt. I dont think Ive ever been so frightened in my life.
Angel kissed his temple. Thank God for your sister.
Alec wants her. He lifted his head and there was another grin on his face. Damn, but I cant get over it. Alec and Celia. Somehow it just doesnt fit.
You know, Celia does have some say about it. Right now, she told me shes in no hurry to get involved with any man again. Raymond really hurt her.
Mostly her pride. But shes tough. Shell get over it.
And Alec wasnt speaking to her when he left.
Dane shrugged. Hes always quiet. Its just his way.
She wasnt convinced. Dont get your hopes up, Dane. I can tell youd like to see the two of them together, but all things considered, a romance between them would be difficult.
Thats what I thought about us. But look how much I love you.
Angel would have fallen off the bed if Dane hadnt been sprawled on top of her, anchoring her in place. What did you say?
Dont look so shocked. He tugged the other strap of her nightgown down, baring her to the waist. I know I deceived you from the start, that I was pretty ruthless at times to get what I wanted.
When were you ruthless? Angel felt both numb and cautiously elated. She couldnt quite believe what he was saying.
I convinced you we needed to marry because you needed protection. But I could protect you without marriage. I lied to get you where I wanted you.
You did? Angel shook her head, trying to clear it. I mean, you said you wanted to marry me so Grayson would have a solid home.
I have enough money to insure Grayson would be happy and well cared for without marrying you. That just seemed a convenient way to trap you.
Her heart rapped against her ribs, threatening to break something. I dont feel trapped.
His eyes darkened, turned warm and probing. Good, because I still want you to marry me, but with no more secrets between us. I love you.
Angel licked her suddenly dry lips. You know, you beat me to the punch. I was going to tell you the same thing tonight.
Very slowly, a slight, pleased smile tilted his mouth and Dane leaned down and kissed her. Is that right?
Yes. Her breathing accelerated with the touch of his warm breath. I knew ages ago that I loved you.
You didnt know me ages ago, honey. Hell, our entire courtship has taken only a heartbeat.
Well, Angel said, wrapping her arms around him and hugging him tight, it was long enough to make me irrevocably and madly in love with you.
Dane grinned as he began tugging up the hem of her night gown, groaning at the feel of her soft naked belly against his abdomen. Its a damn good thing, because I have no intention of letting you go.
Your mother did mention to me what an intelligent businessman you are.
His hand slid over her ribs, then lower, his fingers probing, and he closed his eyes when he found her warm and ready. I know a good deal when I find it. You, Angel Morrissoon to be Carterare a very good find.
Mick, Mick! Grayson came barreling around the corner of the house, chubby arms pumping the air, and threw himself around Micks long legs. Mick was always greeted with the same amount of verve when he came over after school. He was one of Graysons favorite people, a surrogate big brother.
Mick swung the seventeen-month-old toddler up into his arms. Hey, buddy.
Mick, Mick!
Angel came in on the heels of her son and dropped onto the couch. Thank God youre here. Hes been screeching your name all day. I cant tell you how glad I am that schools almost over.
Mick, devastatingly gorgeous at eighteen, topping a few inches over six feet, grinned his killer grin at Angel while he tossed Grayson into the air, encouraging the screeches of berserk joy. You look exhausted, Angel. Is this little monkey wearing you out?
With a serene smile, Angel said, I think its his little brother or sister thats actually doing the trick.
Dazed by her news, Mick tucked Grayson under one leanly muscled arm and staggered into a chair. Youre pregnant?
She smiled happily, pleased with his reaction. Now to get Danes reaction. She heard the front door opening and leaned toward Mick. I was hoping to have a few minutes alone with Dane, if you
Ill take short-breeches here out to the swing.
Mick, Mick!
But as Dane stepped into the house and called out, Im home, Grayson launched himself from Micks arms. Angel gasped, but Mick, quick on the draw, managed to juggle the toddler until he could get both feet on solid ground. And like a shot, Grayson was off again.
Daddy! Daddy!
Mick laughed. To think, he used to be such a peaceful baby.
Dane entered with Grayson perched on his shoulders. He went directly to Angel, who dutifully lifted her face for a kiss. My mother said you had something to tell me.
Angel glared. She promised!
Promised what?
Mick lifted Grayson from Danes shoulders. The squirt and I are going out to the swing.
Wait a minute, Mick. I have something for you. Dane reached into his pocket and pulled out an envelope.
What is it?
As usual, Mick was still hesitant at the sign of a gift. But Dane, who delighted in trying to spoil Mick as much as he did Angel, only laughed. I know the academic scholarship you got doesnt pay for everything, so this will help pick up some of the tab.
Mick merely frowned until Dane gave an exaggerated sigh of impatience and opened the envelope. He waved the paper under Micks nose. Its from the company. We have our own set of tax deductible donations, and this year, my mother decided to expand into scholarships. The two combined ought to take care of most of your schooling expenses. And let me warn you, if you even think of refusing it, youll have to deal with Mother. Since Celia left the company and Mothers taken over again, shes more autocratic than ever. I believe she actually missed it. And shes taken to singing your praises, so dont even think to fight her on this.
Mick looked ready to faint and with a numb expression, took the paper from Dane and read it. Silently, Angel retrieved her son, who promptly planted a sloppy kiss on her cheek, then laid his head on her shoulder. With everyone else he was a dynamo of constant motion. With Angel, he loved to cuddle.
Very slowly, a grin settled over Micks face. Then with a loud whoop, he jumped up and slapped the ceiling. Angel felt like crying every time he acted like the young man he was, rather than the old man hed been forced to be. Since his mothers death, he spent more time than ever with her and Dane, and they were as close as a family could be.
After a gentle hug to Angel, and a bruising bear hug to Dane, Mick swung Grayson up and headed out the door.
Hes something else, isnt he?
Angel smiled at Dane. Youve been a good influence on him.
He grunted. If only I could say the same for my sister.
Oh no, what did she do now? About six months ago Celia had decided shed had enough of the corporate world, and following in Danes footsteps, she was determined to become a P.I. Dane was horrified, but didnt know how to stop her. In an effort to keep an eye on her, he gave her a job at his office, which rankled Alec no end. Just as Angel had predicted, nothing had come of a romance between them, and instead, their constant bickering kept Dane on the brink of insanity.
Dane gave Angel a telling look. She almost got shot, thats what she did. She was supposed to locate that little chump who jumped bail, not try to bring him in. I dont remember the last time Ive seen Alec that mad.
Why was Alec mad?
Because he did get shot. Dane quickly grabbed her when she paled. Now, Angel, hes all right, just a flesh wound. The bullet grazed his thigh. But hes been raising high hell for the past two hours, and Celia, that witch, has steered clear, which means Ive had to listen to it all.
It was too much, and Angel fell into a fit of giggles. Shed been so worried about Celia, whod become reclusive after her emotional hurt with Raymond. But now Celia was determined to experience everything life had to offer, and there was no one who could stop her, not even Alec. And heaven knew, he tried hard enough. Grown men might walk a wide path around him, but Celia continually tried to go through him.
Im glad you think its so funny. Between Mother constantly working to reel me back into the company, and Celias antics, Im ready to go hide under my covers. He grinned at Angel. Want to come with me?
Maybe. But first I need to talk to you.
Dane groaned. Tell me this wont be bad news, babe. I cant take any more bad news.
Angel drew a deep breath. I told your mother Id need a leave of absence in about six months. Angel had agreed to fill in for vacationing secretaries, which she thought would be a weeks worth of work a month, and instead it was turning out to be more like three weeks every month. Something always seemed to come up so that she was required. Luckily her mother-in-law didnt mind when she did most of that work at home, so she could be with Grayson. On the days she had to be in the office, Dane adjusted his schedule. Or sometimes Mick, or Celia, or even Alec
Is my mother wearing on your nerves? I thought the two of you were getting along pretty good?
Its not that. Dane, do you remember when we first talked of getting married?
He sat down and pulled her onto his lap. If youre thinking of backing out now, its too late. You signed the marriage certificate ages ago.
Angel playfully punched his shoulder. Im pregnant.
He froze for a heartbeat, then a gorgeous smile spread over his face. Pregnant?
She nodded. Almost two months now. I waited to go to the doctor so I could be sure.
His large hand opened over her abdomen, and as usual, she quickened in response. Its not twins? he asked, looking at her body.
The doctor doesnt think so, so you can relax.
He did, then he grinned some more. His hand on her belly turned caressing and he kissed her throat. This time will be different, babe. Ill take care of you.
Dane, I dont regret anything about my pregnancy with Grayson. If things hadnt happened as they did, I might never have had Grayson, and I might never have met you.
Angel. He kissed her, his hand still resting where his baby grew. I love you, sweetheart.
Angel spoke past a wobbly, heart-filled smile. The only thing missing the first time around was you.
Dane kissed her again. And this time you have me.
Yes. This time I have everything.
About the Author
LORI FOSTER was first published in January of 1996, and since then has sold over thirty books with six different houses, including series romance, novellas, online books, special projects and, most recently, single titles. Loris second book launched the Temptation Blaze miniseries and her twenty-fifth book launched the new Temptation Heat series. Lori has brought a sensitivity and sensibility to erotic romances by combining family values and sizzling yet tender love. Though Lori enjoys writing, her first priority will always be her family. Her husband and three sons keep her on her toes.

