Up Close and Personal
Up Close and Personal
Maureen Child
The door was yanked open suddenly and there she stood.
Even in her worn jeans and button-down white shirt, she took his damn breath away and he resented that fact down to his bones.
Distance hadnt helped. Hed thought of her. Dreamed of her, and awakened nearly every morning with his body tight and ready for her.
Even now, the lush, slightly floral scent of her reached out to him as if to tease every sense memory he had of touching her, tasting her, being inside her
Jaw tight, he looked deeply into those calm blue eyes and wondered if she was as unaffected by him as she seemed.
Dear Reader,
I love Ireland. Its my favorite place to visit, and every time I go, its harder and harder to leave. Everything about that country appeals to me, from the staggering beauty of the countryside to the bustle of the cities and especially the warmth of its people.
So writing this story was really fun for me. Ronan Connolly lives in Ireland, but hes in California on business. His life gets complicated, though, when he meets Laura Page.
Sweeping her off to Ireland for a romantic visit is, Ronan thinks, the way to get her out of his system. But Laura isnt the kind of woman its easy to walk away from. Soon enough, he realizes he doesnt want to lose her. The problem is finding a way to keep her without engaging his heart.
I hope you enjoy Up Close and Personal as much as I did. You can visit me on Facebook, Twitter and at my website, www.maureenchild.com.
I wish you all great books and the time to relish them.
Maureen
About the Author
MAUREEN CHILD is a California native who loves to travel. Every chance they get, she and her husband are taking off on another research trip. An author of more than sixty books, Maureen loves a happy ending and still swears that she has the best job in the world. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two children and a golden retriever with delusions of grandeur. Visit Maureens website, www.maureenchild.com.
Up Close
and Personal
Maureen Child
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
For Patti Hambleton
That first trip to Ireland was the best
Because it was shared with you.
For all the years, for all the laughs,
I love you, my friend.
One
Laura, I know youre in there!
Ronan Connolly pounded on the brightly painted blue front door a few more times, then paused to listen. Not a sound from inside the house, though he knew too well that Laura was in there. Hell, he could practically feel her, standing just on the other side of the damned door.
Bloody hardheaded woman. How had he ever thought that quality attractive? Now that attractive hardheadedness had come back to bite him in the ass.
Seconds ticked past and there was no sound from within, which only irritated him further. He glanced at the sunshine-yellow Volkswagen parked alongside the househer carthen glared again at the still-closed front door.
You wont convince me youre not at home. Your bloody car is parked in the street, Laura.
Her voice came then, muffled but clear. Its a driveway in America, Ronan. Youre not in Ireland, remember?
Mores the pity. He scrubbed one hand across his face and rolled his eyes in frustration. If they were in Ireland right now, hed have half the village of Dunley on his side and hed bloody well get her to open the damned door.
I heard that, she said. And feel free to hop onto one of your private planes and go back to Connolly-land anytime you feel like it!
If only he could, Ronan thought. But hed come to California to open an American branch of his business and until Cosain was running as it should, he was going nowhere at all.
At the moment though, he was tired, on edge and in no mood to be dealing with more females. Especially one with a head as hard as Lauras.
He had spent the past six weeks traveling across Europe acting as bodyguard to a sixteen-year-old pop star whose singing was only slightly less annoying than her attitude. Between the girl and her grasping mother, Ronan had been more than ready for the job to end so he could get back to his life. Now that he was back, hed expected peace. Orderliness. Instead
Grinding his teeth together, he took a long moment or two and counted to ten. Then did it a second time. Whatever the hell you want to call it, Laura, your car is here and sore you.
I might have been out, she shouted. Did you ever think of that? I do have friends, you know.
The Connolly temper lifted a couple notches inside him and Ronan was forced to fight it back down.
But youre not out, are you? he asked, entirely reasonably, and he gave himself points for it. Youre here, driving me to distraction and making me shout at a bloody closed door like Im the village idiot turned loose on his own for the first time.
You dont have to shout, I can hear you, she said, her voice carrying nicely through the door.
Laura Page lived on a tidy street in Huntington Beach, California, in one of a dozen town houses built to look like a Cape Cod village. When hed first seen her place, hed thought it charming. Now he glared at the building as if it were to blame for his current situation.
A cool ocean breeze shot down the narrow street and rattled the limbs of the nearly naked elm tree in Lauras front yard. Roiling gray clouds overhead promised a storm soon, and he hoped to hell he wasnt still standing on this bleeding porch when it hit.
Your neighbors can hear me, too, he pointed out with a brief nod at the man clipping his hedge with enough vigor to whittle it into a toothpick. Why not open the door and we can talk this out. Together. In private.
Ive got nothing to say to you.
He laughed shortly. That would be a first indeed, he told himself. A more opinionated woman he had never met. In the beginning, hed liked that about her. Too often, he was surrounded by smiling, vacuous women who agreed with everything he said and laughed at the lamest of jokes just to ingratiate themselves with him.
But not Laura.
No, from the first, she had been stubborn and argumentative and unimpressed with his wealth or celebrity. He had to admit, he had enjoyed verbally sparring with her. He admired a quick mind and a sharp tongue. Hed admired her even more once hed gotten her into his bed.
He glanced down at the dozen red roses he held clutched in his right hand and called himself a damned fool for thinking this woman would be swayed by pretty flowers and a smooth speech. Hell, she hadnt even seen the flowers yet. And at this rate, she never would.
Huffing out an impatient breath, he lowered his voice a bit. You know why Im here. Lets get it done and have it over then.
There was a moments pause, as if she were thinking about what hed said. Then she spoke up again. You cant have him.
What?
You heard me, she called back and Ronan narrowed his gaze fiercely on the door as if he could see through the panel to the woman beyond.
Aye, I heard you. Though I dont believe it. Ive come for whats mine, and Im not leaving until I have it.
Yours? Youve been gone two months, Ronan. What makes you think anything is still yours?
Tossing the roses to the ground, Ronan set his hands on either side of the door and leaned in. Laura, Ive been on a bloody plane for ten hours, listening to a teenage girl list the reasons she is to be adored. Ive had her mother bitching about everything from the type of bottled water on the jet to the fluffiness of her pillow. Im a man on the edge, love. All Ive thought of for these last weeks is getting back to my house on the cliffs and seeing my damned dog. Im not leaving without him.
The door was yanked open suddenly and there she stood. Five feet nine inches of curvy blonde with a pair of blue eyes as clear and lovely as a summer sky. Even in her worn jeans and button-down white shirt, she took his damned breath away, and he resented that fact down to his bones.
She kept one hand on the door and the other braced against the doorjamb as if shed be enough to keep him out if he decided he wanted in.
Ronan glanced down and saw his dog leaning into her with slavish adoration. He scowled at the animal he called Beast, and the dog paid him no attention whatsoever. A few weeks gone and youve dismissed me? he asked the dog in a withering tone. What kind of loyalty is that from mans best friend?
The dog whined and leaned even more heavily into Lauras side until she staggered a little under his weight.
A best friend wouldnt have abandoned him, Laura said.
He wasnt put out into a jungle forced to hunt for his own food, Ronan countered. My cousin Sean
Left him with me when he went back to Ireland. You can see now that Beast is fine. Hes happy here. With me.
That may be, Ronan told her after sparing his traitorous hound another hard glare. But hes not yours, is he?
Hes in my house. That makes him mine.
Hes only in your house because Sean asked you to look out for him until I got back.
And for that, Ronan owed his cousin a punch in the face. Called back to Ireland unexpectedly, Sean had asked Laura to watch Beast in order to save the animal a monthlong stay in a kennel. Which Ronan hadnt found out about until it was too late to change anything. Yes, it had been the right choice for the dog. But for Ronan?
He hadnt seen Laura since he ended their affair two months ago. Though he couldnt exactly claim to have shut her out of his mind. Hell, he had taken the bodyguard job for the teenage singer himself, rather than handing it to one of his employees, only so that he could get a little distance from the woman standing so temptingly close to him at the moment. Distance hadnt helped. Hed thought of her. Dreamed of her, and awakened nearly every morning with his body tight and ready for her.
Even now, the lush, slightly floral scent of her reached out to him as if to tease every sense memory he had of touching her, tasting her, being inside her
Ronan, she said in a patient tone that interrupted his musings, we both know Beast is better off with me. Youre not exactly a good dog parent
Im not his father, Im his bloody owner, Ronan countered.
She ignored him. Soon enough youll be going back to Ireland and
Taking Beast with me, he finished for her.
In truth, he hadnt really considered what he would do with Beast when his time in America was over. But right now, the decision seemed an easy one. Even fighting the quarantine laws to get the dog home to Ireland would seem like a vacation after dealing with Laura Page.
Jaw tight, he looked deeply into those calm blue eyes and wondered if she was as unaffected by him as she seemed. Had she forgotten him so quickly? Gotten over him so completely? A lowering thought for a man to consider.
Brushing aside what had once been between them, he said, Beast is mine, and I always intended to take him home to Ireland with me when I go. Nothings changed.
Sure it has, she said, taking a step toward him, dislodging the dog so that he nearly toppled over. You have a dog back home, right?
Aye. Deirdre.
And its been how long since youve seen her?
Thats nothing to do with this.
Its everything to do with it, she countered, folding her arms beneath her breasts. A dog needs more than a visit every couple of months. A dog needs love. Companionship. Someone he can count on. Someone who will be there.
Frowning, Ronan looked hard at her. This was the reason he had stepped back from their relationship in the first place. The woman had hearth and home and forever practically stenciled on her forehead. She was a woman who wanted and deserved to be loved. He just wasnt the man to give that to her. So hed ended their affair before things got even more complicated than they had been already.
Are you talking about Beast now, Laura, or yourself?
She gaped at him. Your ego knows no bounds, does it? Do you really think Ive been sitting here moping? Missing you?
Actually, yes. He did. And the more fired up she got, the more he knew she was no more over him than he was her.
This isnt about us, Ronan. Its about Beast, and you cant have him. You dont deserve him.
Before he could counter, she slammed the door in his face and Ronan heard the lock snap into place. Stunned, he stared at the closed door for a long minute. He could hardly believe it. No one shut a door in Ronan Connollys face, for pitys sake.
He heard her inside, cooing to Beast, assuring him that he was safe from bullies and that was nearly enough to have Ronan pounding on her door again. But he thought better of it. Let her believe shed won this battle. It would make her complacent and that much easier to get around later.
Still furious, he turned sharply, stomped on the fallen roses and left.
But hed be back. Connollys didnt know how to quit.
Its all right, sweetie, Laura said to Beast as she scrubbed the top of his head and scratched behind his ears. The mean man is gone.
Laura was trembling by the time she heard Ronans sports car fire up and zoom off. Oh, not from the argument. She had known that confrontation was coming for weeks. But actually seeing him again had been much harder than shed thought it would be.
Looking up into those dark blue eyes of his, shed watched them flash with temper and had been just as stirred as when shed seen them darken with passion or glitter with a cool, businesslike gleam.
Tall, broad-shouldered, with chestnut hair that showed just a hint of red in the sunlight, he wore business suits and jeans with the same casual air that made him both intimidating and irresistible. And apparently two months apart hadnt dimmed her reaction to him at all.
From the moment he had first walked into her real estate office several months ago, Laura had known that she was in trouble. Oh, she and her sister had sold homes to unspeakably rich people before, but there had never been the slightest temptation to fit herself into their world. With Ronan, it had been different from the start.
Everything in her still wanted him, even though her mind knew better. Hed been out of her life for two months and that was as it should be. After all, she had known going into that mind-dazzling affair that it couldnt last. He was rich; she wasnt. He was Ferrari and she was Volkswagen. He lived in Ireland. And shed be staying in California.
She sighed a little, then looked down at the dog each of them wanted. Beast was big, at least a hundred pounds and his black hair was full and shaggy, clumps of it usually falling across his eyes. No one knew what mixture of breeds he might be, but privately, Laura had often thought a pony must have been involved somewhere in his lineage.
Now, Beast looked up at her as if sympathizing with the situation, and Laura smiled.
Sure, she whispered, still stroking Beasts head, I knew Ronan would be trouble from the first. But a gorgeous, successful man with an Irish accent that makes my bones melt? How was I supposed to fight that?
The dog gave her one long swiping kiss and she laughed. In his own way, Beast was as charming as his masterjust another reason she wouldnt give him up. Then she stood and walked to the kitchen, hearing Beasts claws clatter on the floorboards behind her.
Well, her sister, Georgia, spoke up from the kitchen table. That was dignified.
Laura poured herself a cup of coffee, then carried it across the room to take the chair opposite her sister. I wasnt going for dignified.
Luckily.
She already knew Georgias opinion on the whole situation with Ronannamely, Never mix business with pleasureand she really didnt want to go into it all again. Laura avoided her sisters all-too-perceptive stare by sliding her own gaze around the comfortable kitchen.
The soft yellow walls combated the gray day outside. White appliances gleamed and the black granite countertops shone like obsidian. The chrome-and-glass table sat before a bay window that overlooked the backyard where the few trees stood nearly bare in the autumn weather.
Georgia tapped her finger against the glass tabletop until Laura finally looked at her.
Georgia, Im not going to talk about this.
Fine, her sister said, setting her computer tablet down and flipping the lid over the screen. Ill talk. You listen. Did you really think Ronan wasnt going to show up demanding his dog back?
Of course not. Beneath the table, Beast dropped to the floor, laying his heavy body across the tops of her feet. His heavy, solid warmth was a balm. I knew he would come.
And a part of her had been anticipating seeing him again. Even though she knew it was useless. That they didnt have a future together. That he had ended their amazingly hot affair before they could get too involved. None of that seemed to matter. He had been pretty much completely on her mind from the moment she had met him.
And your solution to this problem is to hold his dog hostage?
Not his dog anymore. Sean brought him to me, remember?
Yes. To hold for Ronan until he got back. Georgia picked up her coffee and leaned back in her chair.
Georgias blond hair was a more subtle shade than Lauras and cut into a short swing that ended at her jawline. Her eyes were a darker blue, her body curvier and her heart a little more hardened. But she was loyal to the bone and Lauras best friend as well as her sister.
Whats this really about, Laura? Are you trying to get back at Ronan? She cradled her cup between her hands. Teach him a lesson? Hurt him like he did you when he broke up with you?
I wouldnt do that, she said, a little stung that Georgia would think she could. Besides, he didnt hurt me. I always knew that affair would end.
Sure, but its better to be the ender not the endee.
In spite of everything Laura laughed a little. Those are not even words.
They should be, Georgia said with a quick grin. Anyway, Im just saying, this is not only about the Beast and you know it. The least you could do is admit it.
Why should she? Laura frowned, opened her laptop and pushed the power button. The fan whirred and lights flashed as the computer hummed to life. And while she waited, she thought about what Georgia had said. Maybe it did sting to know that Ronan could end their affair so easily and then just walk away without a backward glance. Maybe it had hurt to know that he hadnt felt what she had. Maybe she still experienced a twinge of pain at all she had lost in the last couple of months.
But she had her home. Her sister. And now, a dog. What more could she ask for, really? If a little voice inside whispered How about love? She ignored it. Laura had tried love, and it hadnt worked out. Then shed tried a hot and sexy, no-strings-attached affair with Ronan and that hadnt worked, either.
Maybe its time to consider a convent, she mused.
Yeah, Georgia said on a short laugh. Because you do so well with authority.
Frowning at her sister, Laura was forced to concede that Georgia had a point. After all, if she did well taking orders, she would still be working for Manny Toledos real estate office instead of trying to build an empire of her own with Georgia.
Beast snored from under the table and Laura smiled even as a trickle of guilt rippled through her before she deliberately squashed it. Ronan just didnt want to admit that she was right, that Beast would be better off with her.
This is all his fault, she murmured. Yes, he owns Beast. But thats not enough. A dog needs someone to love. To count on. Ronan cant go flying off around the world and expect everything to be right there waiting for him when he gets back.
Uh-huh. And we both know youre not really talking about the dog.
She frowned at her sister. The more she thought about it, the more certain she became that she was doing the right thing. Beast needed more than Ronan could provide and besides, the dog had become a part of her life. She loved him, and she wasnt going to give him up.
As shed had to give up too much already.
For a moment or two, her heart ached and the sting of tears filled her eyes. But she blinked them back and lifted her chin. It was done, and maybe some dreams shouldnt come into reality anyway. Besides, she had a home she loved, her sister to share it with and a business that she and Georgia were working hard to grow.
Speaking of
Can we just talk about work? Laura deliberately avoided looking at Georgia, by staring instead at the laptop screen going through its wake-up routine.
Okay then, well do a little more avoidance therapy.
Appreciate it. Laura was grateful for the reprieve.
So, Georgia said. Our beloved landlord is jacking the rent up in six months
What?
But, hes also offered to lower the price if we still want to buy the building.
Hike the rent and lower his selling price? How does that make sense?
It doesnt, Georgia agreed. But as long as hes in charge, he can pretty much do what he wants. And our lease is up in six months, so
It felt good to get her mind off of Ronan, if only for a few minutes. Together, she and Georgia owned A Brand New Page real estate office and rented a small building on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach. The rent was astonishing, but that area of Orange County was renowned for high rents. To sell the kinds of homes Laura and Georgia specialized in, they had to be in the center of it all.
Whys he willing to lower the price on the building?
Got me, Georgia admitted with a shrug. But the markets down and he knows it. Plus, his wife wants to move to Montana to be closer to their grandchildren.
Their own parents had up and moved to the wilds of Oregon five years ago, Laura remembered and wistfully almost envied them the courage it took to pack up and go. To discover new places, see new things. But she was rooted in California and couldnt see herself living anywhere else.
So all we need is a giant down payment.
Yes, Georgia agreed wryly. Thats all.
Okay, wont be easy, but if we really work the next few months, we should be able to swing it. I could take out a second on this place and
No. Georgia spoke up fast and firm. Thats crazy, Laura. Youre not going to risk your home for this.
Our home, she corrected.
Thanks for that, but I still say no. Well find another way.
Thankfully, even in a bad housing market, there were always a handful of people looking for upscale homes. Enough of those commissions and theyd be able to manage it.
Okay then, well find a way to make it work.
Now see, Georgia said, catching her sisters eye, why is it you can be positive about our prospects for getting enough money together to buy the building but not about Ronan?
Can we not? She stared down at her laptop, willing the darn thing to boot up already. Why did it take so long? She could be typing, entering information, focusing on work and more able to shut out Georgias questions.
Im supposed to be the cynical one, her sister pointed out. I am the one with the loser ex-husband. The one who had to move in with you when she got divorced because said loser took everything out of our bank accounts on his way out of town with Busty the Cheerleader.
Laura laughed shortly at the description. It was dead-on. Georgias ex-husband had been a football coach at a small college in Ohio. Two years ago, when their season ended, the beloved coach and the head cheerleaderwho also happened to be the Page sisters distant cousinran off to Hawaii, taking every cent out of a joint account and most of Georgias self-confidence.
It had taken her sister a while to work her way through the betrayal and the humiliation of being tossed aside. But finally, the Page family temper had come in handy and Georgia had finally gotten angry. Much easier to live with than feeling sadas Laura knew all too well.
So, Georgia said, I know why I dont trust men in the slightest. But my question is, are you ragging on Ronan because of what Thomas did to you?
Thomas Banks. Her ex-fianc. Five years ago, she had lost a dream, but it was so long ago now, that she barely remembered why she had thought herself in love with the man anyway.
No. This is different. Thomas was supposed to be foreverwell, until he broke up with me in favor of Dana
May shell go blind from the sun glinting off that tacky huge ring he bought her, Georgia put in.
Good image, thanks! Laura took a deep breath. Anyway, losing Thomas didnt really hurt, Georgia. I dont think I ever loved him and he deserved better.
So did you, Georgia put in.
Smiling, Laura said, And I shouldnt let myself be hurt by Ronan, either. I knew going in that he was just temporary. Hes danger. Im cozy. Im stay at home, hes adventure. Never the twain is going to meet or whatever.
And yet, you kept his dog.
There was that small ping of guilt again. Especially when she recalled the dumbfounded expression on Ronans face when she refused to hand the dog over. Well, it wasnt Beasts fault who his owner was.
Was?
Beast whined in his sleep, and Laura reached a hand down to pat him. Beast is mine now, and hes going to stay mine.
Good luck with that.
Shed need it. Yes, Ronan had left, but hed be back. Laura knew that. Ronan Connelly didnt accept defeat. Ever. Ronan was the kind of man who made things happen to suit himself. He had built his company into the premier private security business in the world. He traveled by private jet. Knew the famous and the infamous and swept through life with the confidence of a gladiator.
Which was both attractive and annoying. Impossible to have a good argument with a man who never thought he was wrong.
This isnt really about the dog anyway, Georgia reminded her softly, and we both know it.
Lauras gaze flicked to her sisters, and she braced herself. She didnt want to talk about this.
But Georgia was too stubborn to let it go.
You cant blame him for something he didnt even know about.
Im not blaming him, Laura countered, though a part of her did, as ridiculous as that sounded. Im really not. Ronans in the past, thats all. That affair of ours had an expiration date stamped on it. I knew that going in.
Doesnt have to be over, her sister suggested.
Im not the one who ended it, remember?
When Georgia would have argued, Laura spoke up fast. Hes not here forever, Georgia. Hes going back to Ireland and we both know it. Well, I live here. And besides all of that, we want different things. Move in different worlds. Its just doomed.
And youre not going to tell him whats behind all of this? Dont you think hes got a right to know?
Maybe he does. Laura shifted her gaze to the trees outside and watched the last few yellowing leaves flutter in the wind before snapping free of the branches and flying off in a twisting dance. Rain pelted from the sky in a burst and tapped at the windowpanes like impatient fingertips against a table.
Funny, their mother had always hated fall and winter. Shed actually called autumn the Death of Hope season because it would be so long until summer again. Funny that shed chosen to move to such a rainy place. Laura hadnt thought of that in years. Now, it seemed unerringly apt.
Because in this Death of Hope season, she was finally accepting that what she had had with Ronan was over. Finished. Hope was ridiculous when there was absolutely no reason for it.
Turning her gaze back to her sisters, Laura said, What point is there in telling him that I miscarried his baby?
You said it yourself, her sister pointed out gently. It was his baby. Maybe thats point enough.
But it wouldnt change anything, Laura thought. And what if she told him and he didnt care? She didnt think she wanted to find out what Ronans reaction would have been to almost being a father.
Two
He didnt go home.
Instead, Ronan went to work.
Even with jetlag clawing at him, he knew he was in no mood to rest. At their new office in Newport Beach, his company, CosainIrish Gaelic for defendwas just taking root. Situated on Pacific Coast Highway, the two-story building was small, but elegant, with a view of the sea. More important, Cosain was now in the center of one of the wealthiest communities per capita in the United States.
Here, the powerful and the paranoid lived, exactly the kind of clientele Cosain depended on. Here, Ronan was building the American branch of his company.
Of course, there were other security companies out there. Some very good ones. Like King Security. Also headquartered in California, though theyd opened up a European branch in Cadria several months ago.
Ronan smiled to himself. If the Kings moved into his territory, it was only right that he move into theirs. Besides, Cosain didnt go after the same jobs as the Kings. They specialized in security for buildings, events. Cosain specialized in personal security. Bodyguards. And if it pissed off the King family to have Ronans company here, then that he considered a bonus. Not that the King cousins werent good guys. They were. But competition was healthy, wasnt it? Business rivalries always inspired everyone to be their best. And Ronan being in what the Kings would no doubt consider their territory just made his success that much sweeter.
Ronan wasnt a man easily satisfied, even with success. There was always more to be found. And in this community of celebrity and money, Ronan was going to make Cosain the most talked about game in town.
Winning. It was about winning. Ronan had learned that early from his father. A ruthless man, the elder Connolly had made a fortune by buying up badly run businesses and turning them around. He used to say the first thing to do was separate the wheat from the chafffiring the dead weight and promoting the ones as ambitious as himself. He hadnt made many friends along the way, but he had taught his son that winningcoming out on topwas everything.
Ronan walked through the ground floor, his heels sounding out against the gleaming hardwood. His sharp-eyed glance took everything in. Pale green walls were dotted with paintings by local artists and by framed photos of grateful clients. Though most of those he worked for preferred to fly under the radar and not have their personal business known, there were always the celebrities who came alive at the sight of a camera.
There were a few comfortable couches, a low-slung table with an array of magazines fanned out on top of it. A pedestal table held a crystal vase filled with bright blossoms that scented the air like springtime.
A tidy receptionist sat at a desk and she nodded warily at him as he strode past. Morning, Mr. Connolly.
He nodded and went past her, disregarding her nervousness. Ronans mind was already busy with racing thoughtsnot all of them about his business.
He took the short flight of stairs to the landing and then to the second floor above. The bustle of this floor, associates at their computers, muted phone conversations and the purr of a printer, soothed him. Centered him. This was why hed come to California. This was what was important in his life. Not a woman. Not a dog.
Business.
What the Connollys did best.
Hed had it hammered into him from a young age that a man took hold of his life and shook it until it fell into place. Well, hed done just that, though he knew that if his father were still alive, the old tyrant would refuse to be impressed.
Didnt matter. What he did, he did for himself, not to please a long dead parent who had never approved of him anyway. He made a sharp left and headed for his own office.
Mr. Connolly!
He recognized Brian Dohertys voice, but didnt slow down. Brian had come with him from Ireland to help get the new branch up and running. Hed been with Ronan long enough to know his boss slowed down for no one.
What is it? he asked, even as he reached for the sheaf of papers Brian held out to him.
The Bensons. Theyll be here in a few minutes for the meeting you scheduled from the plane.
Right. Shaking his head in disgust, Ronan realized hed actually forgotten about the meeting with all the drama at Lauras house. The woman was not only affecting his life but his business. Just went to show how tired he actually was.
Turning his mind to the task at hand, he pushed thoughts of Laura aside to be dealt with later and mentally reviewed the Benson file. Benson Electronics. Jeremy and Maria, wealthy, devoted parents of two teenagers who had already burned through a series of bodyguards from lesser companies. Now they wanted to hire two of Cosains guards on a long-term contract. Just the kind of client Ronan preferred.
Send them in as soon as they arrive, he said, stepping into his office. He closed the door, and stalked across the room. Taking a quick look around, Ronan assured himself that nothing had changed in his absence. Six weeks was a long time. If he hadnt had Brian onsite and access to Skype, satellite phones and fax machines, he never would have been able to take a job himself at this stage. But Cosain was a well-oiled machine, and though they were new to this country, Ronan had brought along much of his already trained staff to ensure a smooth transition.
Frowning, Ronan sat down at his desk, then reached for the phone and stabbed in a number. In a moment or two, the connection was made and on the second ring a familiar voice spoke up, the music of Ireland coloring his words.
Ronan. That you?
Who else would it be calling from my phone? he countered.
Thought it would be one of your minions as I knew you were out protecting that awful child singer.
Im back, he said, though he had to admit the child in question really was terrible. How she became a sensation was beyond Ronan. And Ive been to Lauras to collect my dog.
Ah, Beast, Sean said. And how is he then?
I wouldnt know. Barely caught a glimpse of him. And that fact was still irritating. No one got the best of Ronan Connolly. Yet, for the moment, Laura seemed to have managed the impossible.
Well why the hell didnt you?
She wouldnt let me in her bloody house, Ronan ground out.
Ah. Still angry then, is she?
Angry she is, about what Ive no idea.
Sean actually chuckled. She seemed no fan of you when I spoke with her last.
It makes no sense, he muttered, more to himself than his cousin. The woman had been cool as cream when hed ended their relationship two months ago. Shed not argued with him over it. Though he thought back now and remembered the flash in her eyes as she stood in her doorway blocking his entrance like a virgin guarding her virtue.
Women are confusing creatures at the best of times, Sean said. Maybe shes simply wanting you back again, though why she would is beyond my imaginings.
Ronan scraped one hand across his face. Was that what this was all about? Did she want him back in her bed and thought holding his dog a prisoner a way to accomplish it? If thats all it is, why doesnt she just bloody say so?
If I understood women, Sean told him, Id write a book and make a fortune selling it to the rest of the men in the world.
Good point, Ronan thought.
So, how will you get Beast back if she wont let you in the house?
Im working on that. But why the devil you took my dog to my ex is still beyond me. What were you thinking, Sean?
I had to move fast. The Knock airport was meeting on whether or not to allow my jets a slot in their schedule. Had to be here to win the battle.
That he could understand, Ronan thought grimly. Business came first in the Connolly family. And his cousin was no different than he. Sean had been working for months, trying to wedge his airline, Irish Air, into the flight schedule at Knock, an international airport in the west of Ireland. And did you win?
Of course, Sean said. Irish Air will now be flying to the Continent three flights a day. To start, he added. Well build from there.
Congratulations then. I might not push my fist into your face after all.
Its appreciated, Sean said with a laugh. Though I remember the last time we brawled, it was your nose that was broken, not mine.
True. Ronan lifted one hand and rubbed a fingertip over the bump in his nose. I still owe you for that.
No hurry to pay me back on that one. The roar of a jet taking off sounded in the background and Sean waited until it died away before continuing. How much longer will you be in California then?
Not sure, Ronan admitted, swinging his desk chair around to stare out at the sweep of sea and sky. Dark gray clouds roiled overhead while the ocean, the color of pewter, frothed with whitecaps. The view reminded him of homedark skies, wind howling, the churning oceanand he suddenly missed Ireland with a sharp pang. Ive yet to find a place suitable for the permanent offices. Until I do that, Ill be staying.
So theres time then to win your dog back from Laura.
Scowling at the phone, Ronan snapped, Theres no reason to win him back. Hes mine, isnt he?
Well then, go claim your mutt and let me get back to the meeting youve pulled me out of.
Ronan hung up soon after and was still frowning when there was a sharp knock on his door. Pushing thoughts of Laura, Sean and anything else that wasnt centered on business from his mind, Ronan stood and called, Come in.
Brian opened the door, then stepped back to allow a couple to enter the room. Mr. and Mrs. Benson, Ronan Connolly.
Thank you, Brian, Ronan said, and waved a hand at the chairs in front of his desk. Speaking to the husband and wife, he said, Please, sit down.
Thank you for seeing us, Maria said, folding her hands over the top of the designer bag she held in her lap.
Ronan nodded and shifted his gaze to her husband. Happy to. What can Cosain do to help?
As Jeremy Benson started talking, Ronan lasered his focus on the task at hand. Just as later he would use that same focus on the problem of Laura.
Beast was snoring.
It was a comforting sound, since Laura was pleased at least one of them was getting some sleep.
Outside, the storm was still raging, sending fits of wind-driven rain pelting at her windows. It was a cozy sound, one she normally would have enjoyed. Tonight, it was simply background noise to the thoughts churning in her brain.
She kept hearing Ronans voice in her mind, the music of his accent and the way it deepened and thickened when he was angry. She saw his mouth, tight and grim, his eyes flashing and couldnt help remembering the sizzle in the air between them.
Trying to sleep was pointless, since she couldnt seem to settle, so instead, she sat propped up in bed, a romance novel open in her hands, lamplight spilling across a page she had already read ten times. It was infuriating to admit that Ronan could so shatter her thoughts she couldnt even concentrate on reading.
When she heard the front door open and softly close, she assumed it was Georgia coming back early from her date. Not a good sign, Laura thought and wished her sister could find happiness again. She thought about getting up and checking on her sister, but then they would be drawn into conversation about Georgias failed date and Lauras failed romance. No, thank you.
Turning slightly, she reached out one hand to the pillow beside her and remembered Ronan lying there, giving her that slow, sly smile that never failed to turn her insides into swirls of lava. She stroked her fingertips over the cold sheets and pretended that she felt instead a warm, muscled Irishman.
It was good, she whispered to the empty room. For a while anyway, it was very good.
Her bedroom door opened, and she turned to face her sister.
Ronans gaze locked with hers. Then he saw her hand, stretched out across the mattress. Miss me?
She jolted up in bed, her book sailing to the floor to land with a thump.
His hair was damp. Raindrops on his black knit sweater glittered like diamonds in the lamplight and his eyes were fixed on her. Her heart rate jumped into high gear even as a burn of something familiar began inside her.
What the How did you Why are you
Ive still got the key you gave me, Ronan said, holding it up for her to see before tucking it into the pocket of his faded jeans.
Well, give it back.
Ill not be doing that, he said, moving into the room and closing the door behind him.
Laura hitched backward on the bed, plastering herself against the headboard and drawing her pale lemon duvet practically up to her chin. A little late to be protecting herself around Ronan. But knowing her own bodys reactions to him, better safe than sorry.
That deep burning sensation spread like a wildfire, lighting up her bloodstream and sending her hormones into overdrive. What kind of penance was she paying that even furious with him, even knowing she had to let him go from her life, she still wanted him so badly her whole body ached with it?
Whatre you doing here, Ronan? she demanded, curling her fingers into the silky duvet material as if she were holding on to a lifeline.
Came to talk, Laura, he said, strolling closer to the bed. Closer to her.
Theres nothing to talk about, and by the way, why do you still have my key? And how had she forgotten to get it back? Well, to be fair, when he gave her the speech on how it wasnt working out and that they wouldnt be seeing each other again, shed felt too bruised to remember to ask for it back.
Which she was kicking herself for now.
He patted the pocket where hed deposited the key. You gave it to me.
We were together at the time, she pointed out and winced as her own voice went a little high. Beneath their conversation, Beasts snoring continued on.
Could be again, he said, then glanced down at Beast so he didnt see Lauras eyes go wide.
Easy to see why you want to keep the Beast, he noted wryly. A vicious guard dog such as this one would make you feel safe.
Beast snored even louder.
Hes company.
Aye, Ronan mused, quite the conversationalist. He bent down, rubbed one hand across Beasts exposed stomach and said, Wake up, you lazy hound.
The dogs eyes reluctantly opened. He saw Ronan and rolled over, pushing himself up high enough to welcome his former owner with a kiss.
Ronan laughed and the sound seemed to rumble through the room before settling in the pit of Lauras stomach and jittering there. She tried to remind herself that they were exes. Tried to remember how shed felt the night he left her. Tried to remember the pain shed suffered later when she lost
Steeling herself, she said, Ronan, you dont belong here. You should leave.
But I am here, and Im not ready to go just yet.
In the lamplight, his blue eyes shone and she read amusement in their depths, which only served to make her angrier. A good thing.
Yes, youre here. Without invitation.
And would you have invited me in?
No.
There you are then. He shrugged and took a seat at the end of the bed. Beast moved to lay his big head on Ronans thigh and both man and dog watched her.
He was far too close.
So, your guard dog doesnt seem to mind me being here.
Feeling oddly compelled to defend the dog, she said, He knows Im not in danger from you.
Ronan tilted his head to one side as his gaze speared into hers. I wouldnt be so sure of that, were I you.
Her stomach did a slow swirl and spin. She shoved one hand through her hair, then grabbed up the duvet again and held it even closer. Ronan, you should go.
No. Not until you tell me what it is thats really at the heart of all of this.
I dont know what youre talking about. She scooted even farther from him, smacking her back against the headboard.
Aye, you do, but for some reason, youre not telling me. Nodding, he glanced down at the dog, then back to her. Its not about Beast at all, is it? Theres something thats driving you.
If there is, its none of your business, she countered.
Outside, the wind moaned under the eaves and the rain hammered at the window glass. He was watching her as if waiting for her to speak up and give him exactly what he wanted. Which was just so like him. Well, Laura wasnt going to satisfy his curiosity.
You broke up with me, remember? How did you put it? Oh, yes. As if she could forget. I believe your exact words were, Its been a grand time for the both of us and now its done.
He frowned thoughtfully. And you werent ready for it, were you, Laura love?
She gritted her teeth at the easy endearment, knowing it meant nothing.
Smiling now, he gave Beast one last pat on the head, then stood up and paced off a few steps before turning and walking back to her. He stopped in the circle of the lamplight and looked down at her thoughtfully. You see, Ive done some thinking, and Ive figured out what the problem is.
Congratulations, she snapped, scooting to the other side of the mattress. She couldnt stay in her bed and talk to him. It was disconcerting. Tempting. And oh, how she hated to admit that, even to herself. Once her feet were firmly on the floor she added, Now, go away.
Still smiling, he walked around the bed and came close to her. Here, there were more shadows. The golden glow of the lamp didnt reach this far. She refused to back up and let him corner her against the wall. So she stood her ground.
Dont you want to know what it is Ive discovered?
Will it make you leave if I say yes?
He grinned. It might.
Fine. She crossed her arms over her chest. What is it then?
This isnt about keeping my dog from me, he said, reaching out to lay both hands on her bare shoulders.
God, why had she worn a tank top to sleep in? She should have worn flannel. Head to toe.
Heat from his palms slid into her system and washed through her like a fever. She had to fight her own reaction to him. Her own instinct to lean into that broad chest. To go up and kiss that mouth that had done so many amazing things to her such a short while ago.
I know what you really want, Laura, he said and bent down until they were eye to eye. And I came here tonight to tell you, you dont have to try this hard to get back into my bed. Youve only to ask.
Time stopped.
Later, Laura would think she must have been struck dumb to be able to remain speechless for so much as a second after that incredible statement. But she wasnt quiet for long.
You dolt.
What?
She brushed his hands off her arms, and then planted both palms on his chest and shoved hard enough to rock him back a couple of steps.
Neanderthal.
Theres no reason for all of this, Laura, he said, that accent of his dancing along her nerve endings, promising romance.
She fought past it.
Are you crazy? You really think I took Beast to get you back?
What other reason would there be? he asked, irritation now sparking in eyes that were still glinting with desire.
Oh, I dont know. Because I felt sorry for the dog? Because I didnt want to see him abandoned? Because I think youre a big jerk who doesnt deserve Beast?
Now just hang on
No.
So youre saying you feel nothing for me, he said, taking a stand, unmovable no matter how hard she pushed.
I am, she said, glaring at him since that was all that was left to do.
Youre a liar.
You
He swooped in then. Simply grabbed her up, yanked her in close and claimed her mouth in a kiss that stole what breath she had and fogged her mind. Sensations coursed through her in a wild stream. The feel of his mouth on hers. The taste of him. His strong arms holding her pinned to his chest. All of these things and more tied her up into so many knots, Laura was helpless to unravel any of them.
And she didnt care to.
Instead, she surrendered to the lush moment. Gave herself up to the rush of being in Ronans arms again. Even though she knew it was a mistake she would regret deeply in the morning, for this one instant, she simply let herself feel.
And just as she was really beginning to enjoy herself, it was over.
He let her go and took a step back. Even with her mind reeling, she saw amusement in his eyes again and wanted to kick herself.
I think weve both got our answers now, he said.
Get out, she whispered.
Behind them, Beast whimpered.
All right.
Surprised, she watched him warily. Just like that?
He shrugged. Ill not stay when you tell me to go. But I wont stay away, Laura. Whats between you and me isnt done, is it?
Yes, she said, realizing how stupid that sounded coming from a woman who had just willingly given herself up to a kiss hot enough to burn down the house. It is.
He reached out, cupped her cheek in one palm and stroked her skin with his thumb. Well see about that, wont we?
Why, Ronan? You left two months ago without looking back. Why do you care now?
He let his hand drop. Theres something youre not telling me, Laura. You want me, thats easy enough to see
She grimaced and huffed out a breath.
But its more than that, and I think you know it. Theres something else. And Ill know what it is before were done.
She was in trouble, and she knew it. Her own body betrayed her when she was around Ronan. And she knew, if he put his mind to it, he would discover the truth about the surprise pregnancy that had ended in a miscarriage. Maybe Georgia was right. Maybe she should just tell him.
But the baby was her secret. Her loss.
Shed known from the first that there was no future in a relationship with Ronan. The day hed walked into their real estate office and told her in brief, concise terms exactly what he wanted. What he needed from her. And maybe it had been the Irish accent that had done most of the seducing. But it hadnt mattered in the end. Shed allowed herself to be swept up into an affair that had burned so brightly, it had gone to ash before its time.
Now, see there, he whispered. Its that flash of something off in your eyes that intrigues me. Youve a secret, Laura.
No, I dont, she lied.
He laughed and shook his head. All women have their secrets, darlin, he said, and all men find a way to reveal them.
Sure of yourself, arent you? Of course he was. It was one of the things shed liked most about him. At first.
Be foolish of me not to be, wouldnt it?
He would see it like that. Laura had never known a man as self-confident, as completely convinced of the rightness of everything he did, as Ronan Connolly. She envied that as much as it irritated her. Which was, she was forced to admit, quite a lot.
He turned to go.
What about Beast? she asked.
He shot a look at the dog that had moved to stand in front of Laura, like a big, furry shield. A smile curved Ronans mouth briefly. He can stay with you. For now.
Lauras fingers curled into the dogs long, shaggy hair. Ronan?
He stopped and looked back at her. The lamplight didnt climb as high as his face, so his features, his eyes, were in shadow when she asked, Why is it so important to you? Why do you care what my secrets are?
A long moment of silence stretched out until all she heard was Beasts gentle breathing and the tap of rain at the window. Just as she decided he wasnt going to answer her at all, he spoke.
Because I want whats mine, Laura Page.
But Im not yours.
You were, he reminded her, and if those secrets still belong to me, Ill have them before were done.
He left her then, quietly closing the door behind him.
Laura dropped onto the edge of the bed, finally giving in to the weakness in her knees. She lifted one hand to her mouth and swore she could still feel the buzz of his kiss sliding through her.
Then she sighed.
He hadnt returned her key.
Three
Laura got a late start the next morning.
While Georgia was out dealing with business at the post office, Laura stayed home to wait for the locksmith. Once all of the locks had been changed, she felt safe enough to leave Beast at home and go into the office.
Of course, her eyes were gritty from lack of sleep and her temper was more than a little on edge. And it was all Ronans fault.
This wasnt right, she told herself as she unlocked the real estate office and flipped the sign on the door to open. She was supposed to be free of Ronan. Getting on with her life. Getting him out of her system.
The phone rang and she snatched at it gratefully. Brand New Page Realty, she said, plastering a smile she didnt feel onto her face.
Youre late today, Ronan answered.
Had to wait for a locksmith, she told him, with just a bit of satisfaction. Oh, feel free to throw that key away now.
He chuckled. Think Ill be keeping it in the way of a souvenir.
You want keepsakes now? she asked, sitting at her desk and riffling through the stack of mail. Bill. Bill. Bill. She sighed, tossed them to the desktop and leaned back in her chair.
Through the front window, the only signs of yesterdays storm were the puddles in the street and the soaked piles of leaves that had been torn from trees. Thanks to the rain, the sky was a brilliant blue and the cold wind that rushed in off the ocean was drying everything out quickly.
It wasnt so long ago that you were telling me we were through, she reminded him.
Times change, he countered and as he spoke, a long, black car pulled up in front of her shop.
Laura watched the driver of the car get out and she shook her head as she met Ronans gaze through the window. He was holding his cell phone to his ear and grinning at her.
You know, its illegal to drive in California while holding your phone.
Ah, but Im a dangerous man who likes a risk.
He really was dangerous. To her peace of mind if nothing else. But damned if shed let him know it. Shed spent hours during a long sleepless night berating herself for giving in to that kiss. No way was she going to slip up again.
Ronan was like any other bad habit.
The only way to quit was cold turkey.
What are you doing here?
He walked around his car, pushed open the door and a bell overhead jangled to announce him. Only then did he shut off his phone and tuck it into a pocket of his black slacks. Giving you another chance to show me how much you want me.
God, youre an impossibly arrogant man.
If you think thats insulting, youd be wrong. He walked farther into the room. I do wonder though, why youre so on edge around me. Didnt used to be.
Times change, she shot back, throwing his own words at him as she set the phone back into its cradle.
I like a woman with a temper, he said. Call it a flaw.
The very notion that youre willing to admit to a flaw might ordinarily be a cause for celebration
He smiled as if everything she said amused him, and it probably did. That smile of his, along with the accent that seemed to ripple over her skin like a caress was a formidable weapon to a man who already had too many at his disposal.
Youve left Beast at home then? He glanced around the office then back to her.
Hes fine. And he knows Ill be back.
Whereas, he wept and pined for me in my absence? he asked.
Frowning, she shuffled the bills into a neat pile all while keeping one wary eye on him. Ronan, why are you here?
To tell you Ill be gone a few days.
In spite of everything, she felt a ping of disappointment. Stupid. She should be glad he was leaving again. So youre proving my point about Beast. Youre gone more than youre home.
I would have taken him with me this time, he told her.
Beast on a plane?
Did I mention anything about a plane?
No, she had to admit.
Arent you going to ask where Im going?
No again, she told him, though she was dying to know. Was he off to protect someone else? Putting himself in danger again? Or just rushing to get away from her again?
Ill tell you anyway. Im off to the training grounds where our newest guards are taking their final tests.
He had told her about the bodyguard training all of his employees had to take and pass before coming to work for him. She knew it was out in the desert somewhere, though he had kept the exact location a secret. Security reasons, he had told her, and she remembered being hurt that he didnt trust her enough to be specific.
Seemed he still didnt.
Laura glanced out the window to the busy street beyond, wishing someoneanyonewould come inside desperate to find a house. She couldnt count on Georgia showing up, because she was at the post office with a stack of packages to mail and that could take either minutes or hours, depending.
Taking a breath, Laura resigned herself to being alone with Ronan no matter how hard it was. All she had to do was not think about that kiss. Better that she remember that he had walked away from her once already.
So why are you telling me this? she asked, deliberately keeping a distance from him.
To give you a chance to miss me, of course.
She blinked at him. What?
Ronan smiled easily and leaned against the corner of her desk. Crossing his arms in front of him, he looked her up and down and then met her eyes again. I want you to think of me while Im gone.
Why would I do that? she demanded, though a part of her knew she would be doing just what he wanted her to. The real question was why he wanted her to. You were gone for six weeks, and I didnt miss you.
Liar. His eyes flashed knowingly.
I didnt miss you before, and I wont now, either, she said and hoped she sounded more sure than she felt. Why would I? Youre the one who broke things off between us, Ronan.
Aye, I did at that, and Im thinking perhaps that was a mistake
Wow, she muttered, trying to cover the flutter of nerves, admitting to flaws and a mistake all in the same conversation. Maybe you should see a doctor.
He laughed. What is it, I wonder, about that sharp tongue of yours intrigues me so?
I dont want you intrigued, Ronan, she told him and tried to ease past him to head for the file cabinet on the far wall.
She didnt make it. He stopped her with one hand on her arm and the heat of his touch sizzled against her skin.
Dont you? he asked, leaning toward her.
No, she answered, her gaze on his mouth as it came closer and closer No.
She said it louder this time, and he stopped in response. Narrowing his eyes on her, he cocked his head to one side to study her. Youd deny us both the kiss we each want?
Yes. When he moved in again, she scuttled back. I meant yes, I would deny us both.
He blew out a breath and straightened up and away from the desk. His blue eyes were cool, his tone brisk as he said, Fine then. Ill not push you on this.
Good.
For now.
Sunlight streamed through the front window, backlighting Ronan until he looked as if hed been gilded by angels. Just that thought was enough to make her laugh silently. There was nothing angelic about Ronan Connolly. The man was temptation. He was warm when he chose to be and cold enough to freeze you solid if he thought you were getting too close.
Laura had already lived through that once. She had thought she could be the kind of woman to have a red-hot affair and not think of tomorrow. Shed learned fastthough not fast enoughthat she wasnt.
Shed lost her heart to him once. And shed lost a child. She wasnt prepared to lose more. Those thoughts steeled her spine and had her lifting her chin. Im not interested, Ronan.
Another lie, he said, mouth quirking into a half smile.
Fine, she snapped, crossing to the file cabinet and blindly yanking open one of the metal drawers. She pulled out a manila folder, not caring which one it was. This was to prove to him she was too busy to play his games. Its ridiculous to try to pretend that youre not attractive.
He snorted.
But, she said pointedly, Im not going down that road again. Heck, youre the one who wanted to get off the road.
Will you forever be throwing that back at me? he wondered aloud.
Why wouldnt I? Carrying the folder to her desk, she scooted past him, then took a stand, figuratively and literally. We were together three months and you ended it two months ago. Time to move on, dont you think?
He looked at her again and the flat, steady stare he sent her way had Laura thinking that he was looking into her heart, her mind.
What I think, he said, is theres more going on here than youll say.
If there is, its my business, she retorted and dropped the file to her desktop.
Thats where youre wrong. He planted both hands on her desk and leaned in until they were eye to eye. If you wanted me gone from your life so neatly, Laura Page, you shouldve returned Beast to me. But you didnt and that tells me you want me bothered. Troubled. And I have to ask myself why.
So well not be finished until Ive got my answers.
Damn it.
You can end this today by telling me what it is youre hiding, he told her, lifting one hand to push her hair back behind her ear.
She flinched from his touch, and he frowned. He hadnt liked that, but Laura couldnt let him touch her because every time he did, it weakened her resistance to him.
Tell me, he whispered, all hint of a smile gone from his face. Tell me why I see sadness as well as passion in your eyes when you look at me. Tell me why you took Beast and held him hostage. Tell me
She shook her head and held up one hand in an effort to stop him. I dont have to tell you anything, Ronan.
You dont, but you will.
Because you say so? I dont think so.
No, he countered, coming around her desk to stand beside her. Because its eating you up inside to not tell me. Its on the tip of your tongue at all times, but you keep biting it back. So let it out, Laura. If you truly want me gone from your life, then tell me.
Well, that was part of the problem, wasnt it? If she told him, shed have the satisfaction of seeing shock jolt into his eyes, but then hed be gone, wouldnt he? Really gone, and she didnt know if she was as ready for that as she claimed to be. But it was more than just that. Sharing her secrets would open herself up to the pain of talking about her loss. And she wasnt willing to do that.
.
.
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Maureen Child
The door was yanked open suddenly and there she stood.
Even in her worn jeans and button-down white shirt, she took his damn breath away and he resented that fact down to his bones.
Distance hadnt helped. Hed thought of her. Dreamed of her, and awakened nearly every morning with his body tight and ready for her.
Even now, the lush, slightly floral scent of her reached out to him as if to tease every sense memory he had of touching her, tasting her, being inside her
Jaw tight, he looked deeply into those calm blue eyes and wondered if she was as unaffected by him as she seemed.
Dear Reader,
I love Ireland. Its my favorite place to visit, and every time I go, its harder and harder to leave. Everything about that country appeals to me, from the staggering beauty of the countryside to the bustle of the cities and especially the warmth of its people.
So writing this story was really fun for me. Ronan Connolly lives in Ireland, but hes in California on business. His life gets complicated, though, when he meets Laura Page.
Sweeping her off to Ireland for a romantic visit is, Ronan thinks, the way to get her out of his system. But Laura isnt the kind of woman its easy to walk away from. Soon enough, he realizes he doesnt want to lose her. The problem is finding a way to keep her without engaging his heart.
I hope you enjoy Up Close and Personal as much as I did. You can visit me on Facebook, Twitter and at my website, www.maureenchild.com.
I wish you all great books and the time to relish them.
Maureen
About the Author
MAUREEN CHILD is a California native who loves to travel. Every chance they get, she and her husband are taking off on another research trip. An author of more than sixty books, Maureen loves a happy ending and still swears that she has the best job in the world. She lives in Southern California with her husband, two children and a golden retriever with delusions of grandeur. Visit Maureens website, www.maureenchild.com.
Up Close
and Personal
Maureen Child
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
For Patti Hambleton
That first trip to Ireland was the best
Because it was shared with you.
For all the years, for all the laughs,
I love you, my friend.
One
Laura, I know youre in there!
Ronan Connolly pounded on the brightly painted blue front door a few more times, then paused to listen. Not a sound from inside the house, though he knew too well that Laura was in there. Hell, he could practically feel her, standing just on the other side of the damned door.
Bloody hardheaded woman. How had he ever thought that quality attractive? Now that attractive hardheadedness had come back to bite him in the ass.
Seconds ticked past and there was no sound from within, which only irritated him further. He glanced at the sunshine-yellow Volkswagen parked alongside the househer carthen glared again at the still-closed front door.
You wont convince me youre not at home. Your bloody car is parked in the street, Laura.
Her voice came then, muffled but clear. Its a driveway in America, Ronan. Youre not in Ireland, remember?
Mores the pity. He scrubbed one hand across his face and rolled his eyes in frustration. If they were in Ireland right now, hed have half the village of Dunley on his side and hed bloody well get her to open the damned door.
I heard that, she said. And feel free to hop onto one of your private planes and go back to Connolly-land anytime you feel like it!
If only he could, Ronan thought. But hed come to California to open an American branch of his business and until Cosain was running as it should, he was going nowhere at all.
At the moment though, he was tired, on edge and in no mood to be dealing with more females. Especially one with a head as hard as Lauras.
He had spent the past six weeks traveling across Europe acting as bodyguard to a sixteen-year-old pop star whose singing was only slightly less annoying than her attitude. Between the girl and her grasping mother, Ronan had been more than ready for the job to end so he could get back to his life. Now that he was back, hed expected peace. Orderliness. Instead
Grinding his teeth together, he took a long moment or two and counted to ten. Then did it a second time. Whatever the hell you want to call it, Laura, your car is here and sore you.
I might have been out, she shouted. Did you ever think of that? I do have friends, you know.
The Connolly temper lifted a couple notches inside him and Ronan was forced to fight it back down.
But youre not out, are you? he asked, entirely reasonably, and he gave himself points for it. Youre here, driving me to distraction and making me shout at a bloody closed door like Im the village idiot turned loose on his own for the first time.
You dont have to shout, I can hear you, she said, her voice carrying nicely through the door.
Laura Page lived on a tidy street in Huntington Beach, California, in one of a dozen town houses built to look like a Cape Cod village. When hed first seen her place, hed thought it charming. Now he glared at the building as if it were to blame for his current situation.
A cool ocean breeze shot down the narrow street and rattled the limbs of the nearly naked elm tree in Lauras front yard. Roiling gray clouds overhead promised a storm soon, and he hoped to hell he wasnt still standing on this bleeding porch when it hit.
Your neighbors can hear me, too, he pointed out with a brief nod at the man clipping his hedge with enough vigor to whittle it into a toothpick. Why not open the door and we can talk this out. Together. In private.
Ive got nothing to say to you.
He laughed shortly. That would be a first indeed, he told himself. A more opinionated woman he had never met. In the beginning, hed liked that about her. Too often, he was surrounded by smiling, vacuous women who agreed with everything he said and laughed at the lamest of jokes just to ingratiate themselves with him.
But not Laura.
No, from the first, she had been stubborn and argumentative and unimpressed with his wealth or celebrity. He had to admit, he had enjoyed verbally sparring with her. He admired a quick mind and a sharp tongue. Hed admired her even more once hed gotten her into his bed.
He glanced down at the dozen red roses he held clutched in his right hand and called himself a damned fool for thinking this woman would be swayed by pretty flowers and a smooth speech. Hell, she hadnt even seen the flowers yet. And at this rate, she never would.
Huffing out an impatient breath, he lowered his voice a bit. You know why Im here. Lets get it done and have it over then.
There was a moments pause, as if she were thinking about what hed said. Then she spoke up again. You cant have him.
What?
You heard me, she called back and Ronan narrowed his gaze fiercely on the door as if he could see through the panel to the woman beyond.
Aye, I heard you. Though I dont believe it. Ive come for whats mine, and Im not leaving until I have it.
Yours? Youve been gone two months, Ronan. What makes you think anything is still yours?
Tossing the roses to the ground, Ronan set his hands on either side of the door and leaned in. Laura, Ive been on a bloody plane for ten hours, listening to a teenage girl list the reasons she is to be adored. Ive had her mother bitching about everything from the type of bottled water on the jet to the fluffiness of her pillow. Im a man on the edge, love. All Ive thought of for these last weeks is getting back to my house on the cliffs and seeing my damned dog. Im not leaving without him.
The door was yanked open suddenly and there she stood. Five feet nine inches of curvy blonde with a pair of blue eyes as clear and lovely as a summer sky. Even in her worn jeans and button-down white shirt, she took his damned breath away, and he resented that fact down to his bones.
She kept one hand on the door and the other braced against the doorjamb as if shed be enough to keep him out if he decided he wanted in.
Ronan glanced down and saw his dog leaning into her with slavish adoration. He scowled at the animal he called Beast, and the dog paid him no attention whatsoever. A few weeks gone and youve dismissed me? he asked the dog in a withering tone. What kind of loyalty is that from mans best friend?
The dog whined and leaned even more heavily into Lauras side until she staggered a little under his weight.
A best friend wouldnt have abandoned him, Laura said.
He wasnt put out into a jungle forced to hunt for his own food, Ronan countered. My cousin Sean
Left him with me when he went back to Ireland. You can see now that Beast is fine. Hes happy here. With me.
That may be, Ronan told her after sparing his traitorous hound another hard glare. But hes not yours, is he?
Hes in my house. That makes him mine.
Hes only in your house because Sean asked you to look out for him until I got back.
And for that, Ronan owed his cousin a punch in the face. Called back to Ireland unexpectedly, Sean had asked Laura to watch Beast in order to save the animal a monthlong stay in a kennel. Which Ronan hadnt found out about until it was too late to change anything. Yes, it had been the right choice for the dog. But for Ronan?
He hadnt seen Laura since he ended their affair two months ago. Though he couldnt exactly claim to have shut her out of his mind. Hell, he had taken the bodyguard job for the teenage singer himself, rather than handing it to one of his employees, only so that he could get a little distance from the woman standing so temptingly close to him at the moment. Distance hadnt helped. Hed thought of her. Dreamed of her, and awakened nearly every morning with his body tight and ready for her.
Even now, the lush, slightly floral scent of her reached out to him as if to tease every sense memory he had of touching her, tasting her, being inside her
Ronan, she said in a patient tone that interrupted his musings, we both know Beast is better off with me. Youre not exactly a good dog parent
Im not his father, Im his bloody owner, Ronan countered.
She ignored him. Soon enough youll be going back to Ireland and
Taking Beast with me, he finished for her.
In truth, he hadnt really considered what he would do with Beast when his time in America was over. But right now, the decision seemed an easy one. Even fighting the quarantine laws to get the dog home to Ireland would seem like a vacation after dealing with Laura Page.
Jaw tight, he looked deeply into those calm blue eyes and wondered if she was as unaffected by him as she seemed. Had she forgotten him so quickly? Gotten over him so completely? A lowering thought for a man to consider.
Brushing aside what had once been between them, he said, Beast is mine, and I always intended to take him home to Ireland with me when I go. Nothings changed.
Sure it has, she said, taking a step toward him, dislodging the dog so that he nearly toppled over. You have a dog back home, right?
Aye. Deirdre.
And its been how long since youve seen her?
Thats nothing to do with this.
Its everything to do with it, she countered, folding her arms beneath her breasts. A dog needs more than a visit every couple of months. A dog needs love. Companionship. Someone he can count on. Someone who will be there.
Frowning, Ronan looked hard at her. This was the reason he had stepped back from their relationship in the first place. The woman had hearth and home and forever practically stenciled on her forehead. She was a woman who wanted and deserved to be loved. He just wasnt the man to give that to her. So hed ended their affair before things got even more complicated than they had been already.
Are you talking about Beast now, Laura, or yourself?
She gaped at him. Your ego knows no bounds, does it? Do you really think Ive been sitting here moping? Missing you?
Actually, yes. He did. And the more fired up she got, the more he knew she was no more over him than he was her.
This isnt about us, Ronan. Its about Beast, and you cant have him. You dont deserve him.
Before he could counter, she slammed the door in his face and Ronan heard the lock snap into place. Stunned, he stared at the closed door for a long minute. He could hardly believe it. No one shut a door in Ronan Connollys face, for pitys sake.
He heard her inside, cooing to Beast, assuring him that he was safe from bullies and that was nearly enough to have Ronan pounding on her door again. But he thought better of it. Let her believe shed won this battle. It would make her complacent and that much easier to get around later.
Still furious, he turned sharply, stomped on the fallen roses and left.
But hed be back. Connollys didnt know how to quit.
Its all right, sweetie, Laura said to Beast as she scrubbed the top of his head and scratched behind his ears. The mean man is gone.
Laura was trembling by the time she heard Ronans sports car fire up and zoom off. Oh, not from the argument. She had known that confrontation was coming for weeks. But actually seeing him again had been much harder than shed thought it would be.
Looking up into those dark blue eyes of his, shed watched them flash with temper and had been just as stirred as when shed seen them darken with passion or glitter with a cool, businesslike gleam.
Tall, broad-shouldered, with chestnut hair that showed just a hint of red in the sunlight, he wore business suits and jeans with the same casual air that made him both intimidating and irresistible. And apparently two months apart hadnt dimmed her reaction to him at all.
From the moment he had first walked into her real estate office several months ago, Laura had known that she was in trouble. Oh, she and her sister had sold homes to unspeakably rich people before, but there had never been the slightest temptation to fit herself into their world. With Ronan, it had been different from the start.
Everything in her still wanted him, even though her mind knew better. Hed been out of her life for two months and that was as it should be. After all, she had known going into that mind-dazzling affair that it couldnt last. He was rich; she wasnt. He was Ferrari and she was Volkswagen. He lived in Ireland. And shed be staying in California.
She sighed a little, then looked down at the dog each of them wanted. Beast was big, at least a hundred pounds and his black hair was full and shaggy, clumps of it usually falling across his eyes. No one knew what mixture of breeds he might be, but privately, Laura had often thought a pony must have been involved somewhere in his lineage.
Now, Beast looked up at her as if sympathizing with the situation, and Laura smiled.
Sure, she whispered, still stroking Beasts head, I knew Ronan would be trouble from the first. But a gorgeous, successful man with an Irish accent that makes my bones melt? How was I supposed to fight that?
The dog gave her one long swiping kiss and she laughed. In his own way, Beast was as charming as his masterjust another reason she wouldnt give him up. Then she stood and walked to the kitchen, hearing Beasts claws clatter on the floorboards behind her.
Well, her sister, Georgia, spoke up from the kitchen table. That was dignified.
Laura poured herself a cup of coffee, then carried it across the room to take the chair opposite her sister. I wasnt going for dignified.
Luckily.
She already knew Georgias opinion on the whole situation with Ronannamely, Never mix business with pleasureand she really didnt want to go into it all again. Laura avoided her sisters all-too-perceptive stare by sliding her own gaze around the comfortable kitchen.
The soft yellow walls combated the gray day outside. White appliances gleamed and the black granite countertops shone like obsidian. The chrome-and-glass table sat before a bay window that overlooked the backyard where the few trees stood nearly bare in the autumn weather.
Georgia tapped her finger against the glass tabletop until Laura finally looked at her.
Georgia, Im not going to talk about this.
Fine, her sister said, setting her computer tablet down and flipping the lid over the screen. Ill talk. You listen. Did you really think Ronan wasnt going to show up demanding his dog back?
Of course not. Beneath the table, Beast dropped to the floor, laying his heavy body across the tops of her feet. His heavy, solid warmth was a balm. I knew he would come.
And a part of her had been anticipating seeing him again. Even though she knew it was useless. That they didnt have a future together. That he had ended their amazingly hot affair before they could get too involved. None of that seemed to matter. He had been pretty much completely on her mind from the moment she had met him.
And your solution to this problem is to hold his dog hostage?
Not his dog anymore. Sean brought him to me, remember?
Yes. To hold for Ronan until he got back. Georgia picked up her coffee and leaned back in her chair.
Georgias blond hair was a more subtle shade than Lauras and cut into a short swing that ended at her jawline. Her eyes were a darker blue, her body curvier and her heart a little more hardened. But she was loyal to the bone and Lauras best friend as well as her sister.
Whats this really about, Laura? Are you trying to get back at Ronan? She cradled her cup between her hands. Teach him a lesson? Hurt him like he did you when he broke up with you?
I wouldnt do that, she said, a little stung that Georgia would think she could. Besides, he didnt hurt me. I always knew that affair would end.
Sure, but its better to be the ender not the endee.
In spite of everything Laura laughed a little. Those are not even words.
They should be, Georgia said with a quick grin. Anyway, Im just saying, this is not only about the Beast and you know it. The least you could do is admit it.
Why should she? Laura frowned, opened her laptop and pushed the power button. The fan whirred and lights flashed as the computer hummed to life. And while she waited, she thought about what Georgia had said. Maybe it did sting to know that Ronan could end their affair so easily and then just walk away without a backward glance. Maybe it had hurt to know that he hadnt felt what she had. Maybe she still experienced a twinge of pain at all she had lost in the last couple of months.
But she had her home. Her sister. And now, a dog. What more could she ask for, really? If a little voice inside whispered How about love? She ignored it. Laura had tried love, and it hadnt worked out. Then shed tried a hot and sexy, no-strings-attached affair with Ronan and that hadnt worked, either.
Maybe its time to consider a convent, she mused.
Yeah, Georgia said on a short laugh. Because you do so well with authority.
Frowning at her sister, Laura was forced to concede that Georgia had a point. After all, if she did well taking orders, she would still be working for Manny Toledos real estate office instead of trying to build an empire of her own with Georgia.
Beast snored from under the table and Laura smiled even as a trickle of guilt rippled through her before she deliberately squashed it. Ronan just didnt want to admit that she was right, that Beast would be better off with her.
This is all his fault, she murmured. Yes, he owns Beast. But thats not enough. A dog needs someone to love. To count on. Ronan cant go flying off around the world and expect everything to be right there waiting for him when he gets back.
Uh-huh. And we both know youre not really talking about the dog.
She frowned at her sister. The more she thought about it, the more certain she became that she was doing the right thing. Beast needed more than Ronan could provide and besides, the dog had become a part of her life. She loved him, and she wasnt going to give him up.
As shed had to give up too much already.
For a moment or two, her heart ached and the sting of tears filled her eyes. But she blinked them back and lifted her chin. It was done, and maybe some dreams shouldnt come into reality anyway. Besides, she had a home she loved, her sister to share it with and a business that she and Georgia were working hard to grow.
Speaking of
Can we just talk about work? Laura deliberately avoided looking at Georgia, by staring instead at the laptop screen going through its wake-up routine.
Okay then, well do a little more avoidance therapy.
Appreciate it. Laura was grateful for the reprieve.
So, Georgia said. Our beloved landlord is jacking the rent up in six months
What?
But, hes also offered to lower the price if we still want to buy the building.
Hike the rent and lower his selling price? How does that make sense?
It doesnt, Georgia agreed. But as long as hes in charge, he can pretty much do what he wants. And our lease is up in six months, so
It felt good to get her mind off of Ronan, if only for a few minutes. Together, she and Georgia owned A Brand New Page real estate office and rented a small building on Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach. The rent was astonishing, but that area of Orange County was renowned for high rents. To sell the kinds of homes Laura and Georgia specialized in, they had to be in the center of it all.
Whys he willing to lower the price on the building?
Got me, Georgia admitted with a shrug. But the markets down and he knows it. Plus, his wife wants to move to Montana to be closer to their grandchildren.
Their own parents had up and moved to the wilds of Oregon five years ago, Laura remembered and wistfully almost envied them the courage it took to pack up and go. To discover new places, see new things. But she was rooted in California and couldnt see herself living anywhere else.
So all we need is a giant down payment.
Yes, Georgia agreed wryly. Thats all.
Okay, wont be easy, but if we really work the next few months, we should be able to swing it. I could take out a second on this place and
No. Georgia spoke up fast and firm. Thats crazy, Laura. Youre not going to risk your home for this.
Our home, she corrected.
Thanks for that, but I still say no. Well find another way.
Thankfully, even in a bad housing market, there were always a handful of people looking for upscale homes. Enough of those commissions and theyd be able to manage it.
Okay then, well find a way to make it work.
Now see, Georgia said, catching her sisters eye, why is it you can be positive about our prospects for getting enough money together to buy the building but not about Ronan?
Can we not? She stared down at her laptop, willing the darn thing to boot up already. Why did it take so long? She could be typing, entering information, focusing on work and more able to shut out Georgias questions.
Im supposed to be the cynical one, her sister pointed out. I am the one with the loser ex-husband. The one who had to move in with you when she got divorced because said loser took everything out of our bank accounts on his way out of town with Busty the Cheerleader.
Laura laughed shortly at the description. It was dead-on. Georgias ex-husband had been a football coach at a small college in Ohio. Two years ago, when their season ended, the beloved coach and the head cheerleaderwho also happened to be the Page sisters distant cousinran off to Hawaii, taking every cent out of a joint account and most of Georgias self-confidence.
It had taken her sister a while to work her way through the betrayal and the humiliation of being tossed aside. But finally, the Page family temper had come in handy and Georgia had finally gotten angry. Much easier to live with than feeling sadas Laura knew all too well.
So, Georgia said, I know why I dont trust men in the slightest. But my question is, are you ragging on Ronan because of what Thomas did to you?
Thomas Banks. Her ex-fianc. Five years ago, she had lost a dream, but it was so long ago now, that she barely remembered why she had thought herself in love with the man anyway.
No. This is different. Thomas was supposed to be foreverwell, until he broke up with me in favor of Dana
May shell go blind from the sun glinting off that tacky huge ring he bought her, Georgia put in.
Good image, thanks! Laura took a deep breath. Anyway, losing Thomas didnt really hurt, Georgia. I dont think I ever loved him and he deserved better.
So did you, Georgia put in.
Smiling, Laura said, And I shouldnt let myself be hurt by Ronan, either. I knew going in that he was just temporary. Hes danger. Im cozy. Im stay at home, hes adventure. Never the twain is going to meet or whatever.
And yet, you kept his dog.
There was that small ping of guilt again. Especially when she recalled the dumbfounded expression on Ronans face when she refused to hand the dog over. Well, it wasnt Beasts fault who his owner was.
Was?
Beast whined in his sleep, and Laura reached a hand down to pat him. Beast is mine now, and hes going to stay mine.
Good luck with that.
Shed need it. Yes, Ronan had left, but hed be back. Laura knew that. Ronan Connelly didnt accept defeat. Ever. Ronan was the kind of man who made things happen to suit himself. He had built his company into the premier private security business in the world. He traveled by private jet. Knew the famous and the infamous and swept through life with the confidence of a gladiator.
Which was both attractive and annoying. Impossible to have a good argument with a man who never thought he was wrong.
This isnt really about the dog anyway, Georgia reminded her softly, and we both know it.
Lauras gaze flicked to her sisters, and she braced herself. She didnt want to talk about this.
But Georgia was too stubborn to let it go.
You cant blame him for something he didnt even know about.
Im not blaming him, Laura countered, though a part of her did, as ridiculous as that sounded. Im really not. Ronans in the past, thats all. That affair of ours had an expiration date stamped on it. I knew that going in.
Doesnt have to be over, her sister suggested.
Im not the one who ended it, remember?
When Georgia would have argued, Laura spoke up fast. Hes not here forever, Georgia. Hes going back to Ireland and we both know it. Well, I live here. And besides all of that, we want different things. Move in different worlds. Its just doomed.
And youre not going to tell him whats behind all of this? Dont you think hes got a right to know?
Maybe he does. Laura shifted her gaze to the trees outside and watched the last few yellowing leaves flutter in the wind before snapping free of the branches and flying off in a twisting dance. Rain pelted from the sky in a burst and tapped at the windowpanes like impatient fingertips against a table.
Funny, their mother had always hated fall and winter. Shed actually called autumn the Death of Hope season because it would be so long until summer again. Funny that shed chosen to move to such a rainy place. Laura hadnt thought of that in years. Now, it seemed unerringly apt.
Because in this Death of Hope season, she was finally accepting that what she had had with Ronan was over. Finished. Hope was ridiculous when there was absolutely no reason for it.
Turning her gaze back to her sisters, Laura said, What point is there in telling him that I miscarried his baby?
You said it yourself, her sister pointed out gently. It was his baby. Maybe thats point enough.
But it wouldnt change anything, Laura thought. And what if she told him and he didnt care? She didnt think she wanted to find out what Ronans reaction would have been to almost being a father.
Two
He didnt go home.
Instead, Ronan went to work.
Even with jetlag clawing at him, he knew he was in no mood to rest. At their new office in Newport Beach, his company, CosainIrish Gaelic for defendwas just taking root. Situated on Pacific Coast Highway, the two-story building was small, but elegant, with a view of the sea. More important, Cosain was now in the center of one of the wealthiest communities per capita in the United States.
Here, the powerful and the paranoid lived, exactly the kind of clientele Cosain depended on. Here, Ronan was building the American branch of his company.
Of course, there were other security companies out there. Some very good ones. Like King Security. Also headquartered in California, though theyd opened up a European branch in Cadria several months ago.
Ronan smiled to himself. If the Kings moved into his territory, it was only right that he move into theirs. Besides, Cosain didnt go after the same jobs as the Kings. They specialized in security for buildings, events. Cosain specialized in personal security. Bodyguards. And if it pissed off the King family to have Ronans company here, then that he considered a bonus. Not that the King cousins werent good guys. They were. But competition was healthy, wasnt it? Business rivalries always inspired everyone to be their best. And Ronan being in what the Kings would no doubt consider their territory just made his success that much sweeter.
Ronan wasnt a man easily satisfied, even with success. There was always more to be found. And in this community of celebrity and money, Ronan was going to make Cosain the most talked about game in town.
Winning. It was about winning. Ronan had learned that early from his father. A ruthless man, the elder Connolly had made a fortune by buying up badly run businesses and turning them around. He used to say the first thing to do was separate the wheat from the chafffiring the dead weight and promoting the ones as ambitious as himself. He hadnt made many friends along the way, but he had taught his son that winningcoming out on topwas everything.
Ronan walked through the ground floor, his heels sounding out against the gleaming hardwood. His sharp-eyed glance took everything in. Pale green walls were dotted with paintings by local artists and by framed photos of grateful clients. Though most of those he worked for preferred to fly under the radar and not have their personal business known, there were always the celebrities who came alive at the sight of a camera.
There were a few comfortable couches, a low-slung table with an array of magazines fanned out on top of it. A pedestal table held a crystal vase filled with bright blossoms that scented the air like springtime.
A tidy receptionist sat at a desk and she nodded warily at him as he strode past. Morning, Mr. Connolly.
He nodded and went past her, disregarding her nervousness. Ronans mind was already busy with racing thoughtsnot all of them about his business.
He took the short flight of stairs to the landing and then to the second floor above. The bustle of this floor, associates at their computers, muted phone conversations and the purr of a printer, soothed him. Centered him. This was why hed come to California. This was what was important in his life. Not a woman. Not a dog.
Business.
What the Connollys did best.
Hed had it hammered into him from a young age that a man took hold of his life and shook it until it fell into place. Well, hed done just that, though he knew that if his father were still alive, the old tyrant would refuse to be impressed.
Didnt matter. What he did, he did for himself, not to please a long dead parent who had never approved of him anyway. He made a sharp left and headed for his own office.
Mr. Connolly!
He recognized Brian Dohertys voice, but didnt slow down. Brian had come with him from Ireland to help get the new branch up and running. Hed been with Ronan long enough to know his boss slowed down for no one.
What is it? he asked, even as he reached for the sheaf of papers Brian held out to him.
The Bensons. Theyll be here in a few minutes for the meeting you scheduled from the plane.
Right. Shaking his head in disgust, Ronan realized hed actually forgotten about the meeting with all the drama at Lauras house. The woman was not only affecting his life but his business. Just went to show how tired he actually was.
Turning his mind to the task at hand, he pushed thoughts of Laura aside to be dealt with later and mentally reviewed the Benson file. Benson Electronics. Jeremy and Maria, wealthy, devoted parents of two teenagers who had already burned through a series of bodyguards from lesser companies. Now they wanted to hire two of Cosains guards on a long-term contract. Just the kind of client Ronan preferred.
Send them in as soon as they arrive, he said, stepping into his office. He closed the door, and stalked across the room. Taking a quick look around, Ronan assured himself that nothing had changed in his absence. Six weeks was a long time. If he hadnt had Brian onsite and access to Skype, satellite phones and fax machines, he never would have been able to take a job himself at this stage. But Cosain was a well-oiled machine, and though they were new to this country, Ronan had brought along much of his already trained staff to ensure a smooth transition.
Frowning, Ronan sat down at his desk, then reached for the phone and stabbed in a number. In a moment or two, the connection was made and on the second ring a familiar voice spoke up, the music of Ireland coloring his words.
Ronan. That you?
Who else would it be calling from my phone? he countered.
Thought it would be one of your minions as I knew you were out protecting that awful child singer.
Im back, he said, though he had to admit the child in question really was terrible. How she became a sensation was beyond Ronan. And Ive been to Lauras to collect my dog.
Ah, Beast, Sean said. And how is he then?
I wouldnt know. Barely caught a glimpse of him. And that fact was still irritating. No one got the best of Ronan Connolly. Yet, for the moment, Laura seemed to have managed the impossible.
Well why the hell didnt you?
She wouldnt let me in her bloody house, Ronan ground out.
Ah. Still angry then, is she?
Angry she is, about what Ive no idea.
Sean actually chuckled. She seemed no fan of you when I spoke with her last.
It makes no sense, he muttered, more to himself than his cousin. The woman had been cool as cream when hed ended their relationship two months ago. Shed not argued with him over it. Though he thought back now and remembered the flash in her eyes as she stood in her doorway blocking his entrance like a virgin guarding her virtue.
Women are confusing creatures at the best of times, Sean said. Maybe shes simply wanting you back again, though why she would is beyond my imaginings.
Ronan scraped one hand across his face. Was that what this was all about? Did she want him back in her bed and thought holding his dog a prisoner a way to accomplish it? If thats all it is, why doesnt she just bloody say so?
If I understood women, Sean told him, Id write a book and make a fortune selling it to the rest of the men in the world.
Good point, Ronan thought.
So, how will you get Beast back if she wont let you in the house?
Im working on that. But why the devil you took my dog to my ex is still beyond me. What were you thinking, Sean?
I had to move fast. The Knock airport was meeting on whether or not to allow my jets a slot in their schedule. Had to be here to win the battle.
That he could understand, Ronan thought grimly. Business came first in the Connolly family. And his cousin was no different than he. Sean had been working for months, trying to wedge his airline, Irish Air, into the flight schedule at Knock, an international airport in the west of Ireland. And did you win?
Of course, Sean said. Irish Air will now be flying to the Continent three flights a day. To start, he added. Well build from there.
Congratulations then. I might not push my fist into your face after all.
Its appreciated, Sean said with a laugh. Though I remember the last time we brawled, it was your nose that was broken, not mine.
True. Ronan lifted one hand and rubbed a fingertip over the bump in his nose. I still owe you for that.
No hurry to pay me back on that one. The roar of a jet taking off sounded in the background and Sean waited until it died away before continuing. How much longer will you be in California then?
Not sure, Ronan admitted, swinging his desk chair around to stare out at the sweep of sea and sky. Dark gray clouds roiled overhead while the ocean, the color of pewter, frothed with whitecaps. The view reminded him of homedark skies, wind howling, the churning oceanand he suddenly missed Ireland with a sharp pang. Ive yet to find a place suitable for the permanent offices. Until I do that, Ill be staying.
So theres time then to win your dog back from Laura.
Scowling at the phone, Ronan snapped, Theres no reason to win him back. Hes mine, isnt he?
Well then, go claim your mutt and let me get back to the meeting youve pulled me out of.
Ronan hung up soon after and was still frowning when there was a sharp knock on his door. Pushing thoughts of Laura, Sean and anything else that wasnt centered on business from his mind, Ronan stood and called, Come in.
Brian opened the door, then stepped back to allow a couple to enter the room. Mr. and Mrs. Benson, Ronan Connolly.
Thank you, Brian, Ronan said, and waved a hand at the chairs in front of his desk. Speaking to the husband and wife, he said, Please, sit down.
Thank you for seeing us, Maria said, folding her hands over the top of the designer bag she held in her lap.
Ronan nodded and shifted his gaze to her husband. Happy to. What can Cosain do to help?
As Jeremy Benson started talking, Ronan lasered his focus on the task at hand. Just as later he would use that same focus on the problem of Laura.
Beast was snoring.
It was a comforting sound, since Laura was pleased at least one of them was getting some sleep.
Outside, the storm was still raging, sending fits of wind-driven rain pelting at her windows. It was a cozy sound, one she normally would have enjoyed. Tonight, it was simply background noise to the thoughts churning in her brain.
She kept hearing Ronans voice in her mind, the music of his accent and the way it deepened and thickened when he was angry. She saw his mouth, tight and grim, his eyes flashing and couldnt help remembering the sizzle in the air between them.
Trying to sleep was pointless, since she couldnt seem to settle, so instead, she sat propped up in bed, a romance novel open in her hands, lamplight spilling across a page she had already read ten times. It was infuriating to admit that Ronan could so shatter her thoughts she couldnt even concentrate on reading.
When she heard the front door open and softly close, she assumed it was Georgia coming back early from her date. Not a good sign, Laura thought and wished her sister could find happiness again. She thought about getting up and checking on her sister, but then they would be drawn into conversation about Georgias failed date and Lauras failed romance. No, thank you.
Turning slightly, she reached out one hand to the pillow beside her and remembered Ronan lying there, giving her that slow, sly smile that never failed to turn her insides into swirls of lava. She stroked her fingertips over the cold sheets and pretended that she felt instead a warm, muscled Irishman.
It was good, she whispered to the empty room. For a while anyway, it was very good.
Her bedroom door opened, and she turned to face her sister.
Ronans gaze locked with hers. Then he saw her hand, stretched out across the mattress. Miss me?
She jolted up in bed, her book sailing to the floor to land with a thump.
His hair was damp. Raindrops on his black knit sweater glittered like diamonds in the lamplight and his eyes were fixed on her. Her heart rate jumped into high gear even as a burn of something familiar began inside her.
What the How did you Why are you
Ive still got the key you gave me, Ronan said, holding it up for her to see before tucking it into the pocket of his faded jeans.
Well, give it back.
Ill not be doing that, he said, moving into the room and closing the door behind him.
Laura hitched backward on the bed, plastering herself against the headboard and drawing her pale lemon duvet practically up to her chin. A little late to be protecting herself around Ronan. But knowing her own bodys reactions to him, better safe than sorry.
That deep burning sensation spread like a wildfire, lighting up her bloodstream and sending her hormones into overdrive. What kind of penance was she paying that even furious with him, even knowing she had to let him go from her life, she still wanted him so badly her whole body ached with it?
Whatre you doing here, Ronan? she demanded, curling her fingers into the silky duvet material as if she were holding on to a lifeline.
Came to talk, Laura, he said, strolling closer to the bed. Closer to her.
Theres nothing to talk about, and by the way, why do you still have my key? And how had she forgotten to get it back? Well, to be fair, when he gave her the speech on how it wasnt working out and that they wouldnt be seeing each other again, shed felt too bruised to remember to ask for it back.
Which she was kicking herself for now.
He patted the pocket where hed deposited the key. You gave it to me.
We were together at the time, she pointed out and winced as her own voice went a little high. Beneath their conversation, Beasts snoring continued on.
Could be again, he said, then glanced down at Beast so he didnt see Lauras eyes go wide.
Easy to see why you want to keep the Beast, he noted wryly. A vicious guard dog such as this one would make you feel safe.
Beast snored even louder.
Hes company.
Aye, Ronan mused, quite the conversationalist. He bent down, rubbed one hand across Beasts exposed stomach and said, Wake up, you lazy hound.
The dogs eyes reluctantly opened. He saw Ronan and rolled over, pushing himself up high enough to welcome his former owner with a kiss.
Ronan laughed and the sound seemed to rumble through the room before settling in the pit of Lauras stomach and jittering there. She tried to remind herself that they were exes. Tried to remember how shed felt the night he left her. Tried to remember the pain shed suffered later when she lost
Steeling herself, she said, Ronan, you dont belong here. You should leave.
But I am here, and Im not ready to go just yet.
In the lamplight, his blue eyes shone and she read amusement in their depths, which only served to make her angrier. A good thing.
Yes, youre here. Without invitation.
And would you have invited me in?
No.
There you are then. He shrugged and took a seat at the end of the bed. Beast moved to lay his big head on Ronans thigh and both man and dog watched her.
He was far too close.
So, your guard dog doesnt seem to mind me being here.
Feeling oddly compelled to defend the dog, she said, He knows Im not in danger from you.
Ronan tilted his head to one side as his gaze speared into hers. I wouldnt be so sure of that, were I you.
Her stomach did a slow swirl and spin. She shoved one hand through her hair, then grabbed up the duvet again and held it even closer. Ronan, you should go.
No. Not until you tell me what it is thats really at the heart of all of this.
I dont know what youre talking about. She scooted even farther from him, smacking her back against the headboard.
Aye, you do, but for some reason, youre not telling me. Nodding, he glanced down at the dog, then back to her. Its not about Beast at all, is it? Theres something thats driving you.
If there is, its none of your business, she countered.
Outside, the wind moaned under the eaves and the rain hammered at the window glass. He was watching her as if waiting for her to speak up and give him exactly what he wanted. Which was just so like him. Well, Laura wasnt going to satisfy his curiosity.
You broke up with me, remember? How did you put it? Oh, yes. As if she could forget. I believe your exact words were, Its been a grand time for the both of us and now its done.
He frowned thoughtfully. And you werent ready for it, were you, Laura love?
She gritted her teeth at the easy endearment, knowing it meant nothing.
Smiling now, he gave Beast one last pat on the head, then stood up and paced off a few steps before turning and walking back to her. He stopped in the circle of the lamplight and looked down at her thoughtfully. You see, Ive done some thinking, and Ive figured out what the problem is.
Congratulations, she snapped, scooting to the other side of the mattress. She couldnt stay in her bed and talk to him. It was disconcerting. Tempting. And oh, how she hated to admit that, even to herself. Once her feet were firmly on the floor she added, Now, go away.
Still smiling, he walked around the bed and came close to her. Here, there were more shadows. The golden glow of the lamp didnt reach this far. She refused to back up and let him corner her against the wall. So she stood her ground.
Dont you want to know what it is Ive discovered?
Will it make you leave if I say yes?
He grinned. It might.
Fine. She crossed her arms over her chest. What is it then?
This isnt about keeping my dog from me, he said, reaching out to lay both hands on her bare shoulders.
God, why had she worn a tank top to sleep in? She should have worn flannel. Head to toe.
Heat from his palms slid into her system and washed through her like a fever. She had to fight her own reaction to him. Her own instinct to lean into that broad chest. To go up and kiss that mouth that had done so many amazing things to her such a short while ago.
I know what you really want, Laura, he said and bent down until they were eye to eye. And I came here tonight to tell you, you dont have to try this hard to get back into my bed. Youve only to ask.
Time stopped.
Later, Laura would think she must have been struck dumb to be able to remain speechless for so much as a second after that incredible statement. But she wasnt quiet for long.
You dolt.
What?
She brushed his hands off her arms, and then planted both palms on his chest and shoved hard enough to rock him back a couple of steps.
Neanderthal.
Theres no reason for all of this, Laura, he said, that accent of his dancing along her nerve endings, promising romance.
She fought past it.
Are you crazy? You really think I took Beast to get you back?
What other reason would there be? he asked, irritation now sparking in eyes that were still glinting with desire.
Oh, I dont know. Because I felt sorry for the dog? Because I didnt want to see him abandoned? Because I think youre a big jerk who doesnt deserve Beast?
Now just hang on
No.
So youre saying you feel nothing for me, he said, taking a stand, unmovable no matter how hard she pushed.
I am, she said, glaring at him since that was all that was left to do.
Youre a liar.
You
He swooped in then. Simply grabbed her up, yanked her in close and claimed her mouth in a kiss that stole what breath she had and fogged her mind. Sensations coursed through her in a wild stream. The feel of his mouth on hers. The taste of him. His strong arms holding her pinned to his chest. All of these things and more tied her up into so many knots, Laura was helpless to unravel any of them.
And she didnt care to.
Instead, she surrendered to the lush moment. Gave herself up to the rush of being in Ronans arms again. Even though she knew it was a mistake she would regret deeply in the morning, for this one instant, she simply let herself feel.
And just as she was really beginning to enjoy herself, it was over.
He let her go and took a step back. Even with her mind reeling, she saw amusement in his eyes again and wanted to kick herself.
I think weve both got our answers now, he said.
Get out, she whispered.
Behind them, Beast whimpered.
All right.
Surprised, she watched him warily. Just like that?
He shrugged. Ill not stay when you tell me to go. But I wont stay away, Laura. Whats between you and me isnt done, is it?
Yes, she said, realizing how stupid that sounded coming from a woman who had just willingly given herself up to a kiss hot enough to burn down the house. It is.
He reached out, cupped her cheek in one palm and stroked her skin with his thumb. Well see about that, wont we?
Why, Ronan? You left two months ago without looking back. Why do you care now?
He let his hand drop. Theres something youre not telling me, Laura. You want me, thats easy enough to see
She grimaced and huffed out a breath.
But its more than that, and I think you know it. Theres something else. And Ill know what it is before were done.
She was in trouble, and she knew it. Her own body betrayed her when she was around Ronan. And she knew, if he put his mind to it, he would discover the truth about the surprise pregnancy that had ended in a miscarriage. Maybe Georgia was right. Maybe she should just tell him.
But the baby was her secret. Her loss.
Shed known from the first that there was no future in a relationship with Ronan. The day hed walked into their real estate office and told her in brief, concise terms exactly what he wanted. What he needed from her. And maybe it had been the Irish accent that had done most of the seducing. But it hadnt mattered in the end. Shed allowed herself to be swept up into an affair that had burned so brightly, it had gone to ash before its time.
Now, see there, he whispered. Its that flash of something off in your eyes that intrigues me. Youve a secret, Laura.
No, I dont, she lied.
He laughed and shook his head. All women have their secrets, darlin, he said, and all men find a way to reveal them.
Sure of yourself, arent you? Of course he was. It was one of the things shed liked most about him. At first.
Be foolish of me not to be, wouldnt it?
He would see it like that. Laura had never known a man as self-confident, as completely convinced of the rightness of everything he did, as Ronan Connolly. She envied that as much as it irritated her. Which was, she was forced to admit, quite a lot.
He turned to go.
What about Beast? she asked.
He shot a look at the dog that had moved to stand in front of Laura, like a big, furry shield. A smile curved Ronans mouth briefly. He can stay with you. For now.
Lauras fingers curled into the dogs long, shaggy hair. Ronan?
He stopped and looked back at her. The lamplight didnt climb as high as his face, so his features, his eyes, were in shadow when she asked, Why is it so important to you? Why do you care what my secrets are?
A long moment of silence stretched out until all she heard was Beasts gentle breathing and the tap of rain at the window. Just as she decided he wasnt going to answer her at all, he spoke.
Because I want whats mine, Laura Page.
But Im not yours.
You were, he reminded her, and if those secrets still belong to me, Ill have them before were done.
He left her then, quietly closing the door behind him.
Laura dropped onto the edge of the bed, finally giving in to the weakness in her knees. She lifted one hand to her mouth and swore she could still feel the buzz of his kiss sliding through her.
Then she sighed.
He hadnt returned her key.
Three
Laura got a late start the next morning.
While Georgia was out dealing with business at the post office, Laura stayed home to wait for the locksmith. Once all of the locks had been changed, she felt safe enough to leave Beast at home and go into the office.
Of course, her eyes were gritty from lack of sleep and her temper was more than a little on edge. And it was all Ronans fault.
This wasnt right, she told herself as she unlocked the real estate office and flipped the sign on the door to open. She was supposed to be free of Ronan. Getting on with her life. Getting him out of her system.
The phone rang and she snatched at it gratefully. Brand New Page Realty, she said, plastering a smile she didnt feel onto her face.
Youre late today, Ronan answered.
Had to wait for a locksmith, she told him, with just a bit of satisfaction. Oh, feel free to throw that key away now.
He chuckled. Think Ill be keeping it in the way of a souvenir.
You want keepsakes now? she asked, sitting at her desk and riffling through the stack of mail. Bill. Bill. Bill. She sighed, tossed them to the desktop and leaned back in her chair.
Through the front window, the only signs of yesterdays storm were the puddles in the street and the soaked piles of leaves that had been torn from trees. Thanks to the rain, the sky was a brilliant blue and the cold wind that rushed in off the ocean was drying everything out quickly.
It wasnt so long ago that you were telling me we were through, she reminded him.
Times change, he countered and as he spoke, a long, black car pulled up in front of her shop.
Laura watched the driver of the car get out and she shook her head as she met Ronans gaze through the window. He was holding his cell phone to his ear and grinning at her.
You know, its illegal to drive in California while holding your phone.
Ah, but Im a dangerous man who likes a risk.
He really was dangerous. To her peace of mind if nothing else. But damned if shed let him know it. Shed spent hours during a long sleepless night berating herself for giving in to that kiss. No way was she going to slip up again.
Ronan was like any other bad habit.
The only way to quit was cold turkey.
What are you doing here?
He walked around his car, pushed open the door and a bell overhead jangled to announce him. Only then did he shut off his phone and tuck it into a pocket of his black slacks. Giving you another chance to show me how much you want me.
God, youre an impossibly arrogant man.
If you think thats insulting, youd be wrong. He walked farther into the room. I do wonder though, why youre so on edge around me. Didnt used to be.
Times change, she shot back, throwing his own words at him as she set the phone back into its cradle.
I like a woman with a temper, he said. Call it a flaw.
The very notion that youre willing to admit to a flaw might ordinarily be a cause for celebration
He smiled as if everything she said amused him, and it probably did. That smile of his, along with the accent that seemed to ripple over her skin like a caress was a formidable weapon to a man who already had too many at his disposal.
Youve left Beast at home then? He glanced around the office then back to her.
Hes fine. And he knows Ill be back.
Whereas, he wept and pined for me in my absence? he asked.
Frowning, she shuffled the bills into a neat pile all while keeping one wary eye on him. Ronan, why are you here?
To tell you Ill be gone a few days.
In spite of everything, she felt a ping of disappointment. Stupid. She should be glad he was leaving again. So youre proving my point about Beast. Youre gone more than youre home.
I would have taken him with me this time, he told her.
Beast on a plane?
Did I mention anything about a plane?
No, she had to admit.
Arent you going to ask where Im going?
No again, she told him, though she was dying to know. Was he off to protect someone else? Putting himself in danger again? Or just rushing to get away from her again?
Ill tell you anyway. Im off to the training grounds where our newest guards are taking their final tests.
He had told her about the bodyguard training all of his employees had to take and pass before coming to work for him. She knew it was out in the desert somewhere, though he had kept the exact location a secret. Security reasons, he had told her, and she remembered being hurt that he didnt trust her enough to be specific.
Seemed he still didnt.
Laura glanced out the window to the busy street beyond, wishing someoneanyonewould come inside desperate to find a house. She couldnt count on Georgia showing up, because she was at the post office with a stack of packages to mail and that could take either minutes or hours, depending.
Taking a breath, Laura resigned herself to being alone with Ronan no matter how hard it was. All she had to do was not think about that kiss. Better that she remember that he had walked away from her once already.
So why are you telling me this? she asked, deliberately keeping a distance from him.
To give you a chance to miss me, of course.
She blinked at him. What?
Ronan smiled easily and leaned against the corner of her desk. Crossing his arms in front of him, he looked her up and down and then met her eyes again. I want you to think of me while Im gone.
Why would I do that? she demanded, though a part of her knew she would be doing just what he wanted her to. The real question was why he wanted her to. You were gone for six weeks, and I didnt miss you.
Liar. His eyes flashed knowingly.
I didnt miss you before, and I wont now, either, she said and hoped she sounded more sure than she felt. Why would I? Youre the one who broke things off between us, Ronan.
Aye, I did at that, and Im thinking perhaps that was a mistake
Wow, she muttered, trying to cover the flutter of nerves, admitting to flaws and a mistake all in the same conversation. Maybe you should see a doctor.
He laughed. What is it, I wonder, about that sharp tongue of yours intrigues me so?
I dont want you intrigued, Ronan, she told him and tried to ease past him to head for the file cabinet on the far wall.
She didnt make it. He stopped her with one hand on her arm and the heat of his touch sizzled against her skin.
Dont you? he asked, leaning toward her.
No, she answered, her gaze on his mouth as it came closer and closer No.
She said it louder this time, and he stopped in response. Narrowing his eyes on her, he cocked his head to one side to study her. Youd deny us both the kiss we each want?
Yes. When he moved in again, she scuttled back. I meant yes, I would deny us both.
He blew out a breath and straightened up and away from the desk. His blue eyes were cool, his tone brisk as he said, Fine then. Ill not push you on this.
Good.
For now.
Sunlight streamed through the front window, backlighting Ronan until he looked as if hed been gilded by angels. Just that thought was enough to make her laugh silently. There was nothing angelic about Ronan Connolly. The man was temptation. He was warm when he chose to be and cold enough to freeze you solid if he thought you were getting too close.
Laura had already lived through that once. She had thought she could be the kind of woman to have a red-hot affair and not think of tomorrow. Shed learned fastthough not fast enoughthat she wasnt.
Shed lost her heart to him once. And shed lost a child. She wasnt prepared to lose more. Those thoughts steeled her spine and had her lifting her chin. Im not interested, Ronan.
Another lie, he said, mouth quirking into a half smile.
Fine, she snapped, crossing to the file cabinet and blindly yanking open one of the metal drawers. She pulled out a manila folder, not caring which one it was. This was to prove to him she was too busy to play his games. Its ridiculous to try to pretend that youre not attractive.
He snorted.
But, she said pointedly, Im not going down that road again. Heck, youre the one who wanted to get off the road.
Will you forever be throwing that back at me? he wondered aloud.
Why wouldnt I? Carrying the folder to her desk, she scooted past him, then took a stand, figuratively and literally. We were together three months and you ended it two months ago. Time to move on, dont you think?
He looked at her again and the flat, steady stare he sent her way had Laura thinking that he was looking into her heart, her mind.
What I think, he said, is theres more going on here than youll say.
If there is, its my business, she retorted and dropped the file to her desktop.
Thats where youre wrong. He planted both hands on her desk and leaned in until they were eye to eye. If you wanted me gone from your life so neatly, Laura Page, you shouldve returned Beast to me. But you didnt and that tells me you want me bothered. Troubled. And I have to ask myself why.
So well not be finished until Ive got my answers.
Damn it.
You can end this today by telling me what it is youre hiding, he told her, lifting one hand to push her hair back behind her ear.
She flinched from his touch, and he frowned. He hadnt liked that, but Laura couldnt let him touch her because every time he did, it weakened her resistance to him.
Tell me, he whispered, all hint of a smile gone from his face. Tell me why I see sadness as well as passion in your eyes when you look at me. Tell me why you took Beast and held him hostage. Tell me
She shook her head and held up one hand in an effort to stop him. I dont have to tell you anything, Ronan.
You dont, but you will.
Because you say so? I dont think so.
No, he countered, coming around her desk to stand beside her. Because its eating you up inside to not tell me. Its on the tip of your tongue at all times, but you keep biting it back. So let it out, Laura. If you truly want me gone from your life, then tell me.
Well, that was part of the problem, wasnt it? If she told him, shed have the satisfaction of seeing shock jolt into his eyes, but then hed be gone, wouldnt he? Really gone, and she didnt know if she was as ready for that as she claimed to be. But it was more than just that. Sharing her secrets would open herself up to the pain of talking about her loss. And she wasnt willing to do that.
.
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Maureen Child
Тип: электронная книга
Жанр: Современные любовные романы
Язык: на английском языке
Издательство: HarperCollins
Дата публикации: 16.04.2024
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О книге: Up Close and Personal, электронная книга автора Maureen Child на английском языке, в жанре современные любовные романы