PlayingTheMillionaire

NewYorkTimes,USAToday&WallStreetJournalbestsellingauthor

SandiLynn

PlayingTheMillionaire

Allrightsreserved.Nopartofthispublicationmaybereproduced,distributed,or

transmittedinanyformorbyanymeans,includingphotocopying,recording,or

otherelectronicormechanicalmethodswithoutthepriorwrittenpermissionofthe

publisher.

Thisisaworkoffiction.Names,characters,placesandincidentsaretheproducts

oftheauthorsimaginationorareusedfactitiously.Anyresemblancetoactual

events,locales,orpersons,livingordead,isentirelycoincidental.

Photo&CoverDesignby:SaraEirew@SaraEirewPhotography

Models:AlexBoivin&PamelaBrisson

EditingbyB.Z.Hercules

Mermaids

www.whats-your-sign.com/mermaid-meaning-and-symbolism.html

ChapterThirty-Six
ChapterThirty-Seven
ChapterThirty-Eight
ChapterThirty-Nine
ChapterForty
ChapterForty-One
ChapterForty-Two
ChapterForty-Three
ChapterForty-Four
BooksBySandiLynn
AboutTheAuthor

ChapterOne

Kate

My eyes were closed, but my mind still planned my next move. My move to

leaveSeattleandgohome.IslowlyopenedmyeyesasIlaythereonmysidewith

hisarmstretchedoutovermywaist.Hewasagoodmanandmytimespentwith

him was coming to an end. Nigel Thorne was a fifty-year-old millionaire who

liked to devour younger women. He’d charm them, use them, and then discard

them when he got bored. He became bored quickly, which was good for me

becauseIhadnoplanstostickaround.ButhesaidIwasdifferent.Great.Hesaid

Iwasakeeper.Shit.Forhowlong,Ididn’tknow.Hisfirstmistakewastrusting

me.Hewasacharmer,butIcharmedbetter.Hewasaseducer,butIhadseduced

him first. He told me he loved me and I told him not to be silly. We had only

knowneachotheralittleovertwomonths,justenoughtimeformetofindouthis

weaknesses and play on them. He bought me expensive handbags and designer

clothes,aswellasdiamondearringsandabraceletthatwereworthovertwenty

thousanddollars.

Asmallsmilecrossedhislipsashiseyesopenedandlockedontomine.His

handsweptthroughmyhairasheleanedinandbrushedhismouthagainstmine.

“Goodmorning,”hewhispered.

“Morning,”Ispokewithasmallsmile.

“Whattimeisit?”heasked.

“Sixthirty.”

Hischestheavedasheletoutasighandrolledontohisback,foldinghishands

behindhishead.

“Ihaveameetingateight.Don’tforgetaboutthedinnerpartyattheAndersons’

tonight.”

“Ihaven’tforgotten.”Myfingerrandownhischest.

Hekissedmyforeheadbeforeclimbingoutofbedandhoppingintotheshower.

“I’llgomakesomecoffee,”IspokeasIslippedonmyredsatinrobe.

“Thankyou,darling.”

HelikedhiscoffeeFrenchpressed.Onceitwasfinished,Ipouredsomeinto

his favorite brown mug with one cube of sugar and two splashes of skim milk.

Takingitintothebathroom,Isetthemugonthecounterwhilehestoodinfrontof

themirrorandshaved.

“Whatareyourplansfortoday?”heasked.

“IthoughtI’ddosomeshopping,perhapsbuyanewdressforthedinnerparty

tonight.”

“Good idea. Make sure it’s black, tight, and short.” He winked. “Take my

creditcardandsparenoexpense.”

I had no intention of attending that party because I’d be long gone before he

evengothomefromtheoffice.Seattlewasniceandall,butmytimeherewasup

andIhadotherprospectstocheckout.AsIwasleavingthebathroom,hecalled

myname.

“Becca?”

“Yes?”Iturnedaround.

“Ithinkyoushouldmoveinwithme.”

Ugh.Ihatedwhentheysuggestedthat.Walkingovertohim,Iplacedmyhand

onhisbackandstaredathimthroughthemirror.

“We’lldiscussthatlater.You’regoingtobelateforyourmeetingifyoudon’t

hurryup.”Ismiled.

“I’minlovewithyou,BeccaWright.”

My lips pressed against his bare shoulder before I walked into the bedroom

andlaidouthissuit.Oncehewasdressedandheadedoutthedoor,hekissedme

goodbye. Little did he know that the kiss he gave me would be his last one. As

soon as the front door shut, I showered, got dressed, and went into his home

office,whereIremovedthelargepaintingofahuntingdogthatrevealedhiswall

safe.Hiscombinationwasheavilyguardedbyhimandnobodywasallowedinhis

officewhenheopenedit.Ihadplacedahiddencameraamongstthebooksthatsat

on the bookshelf across from the painting. 25 left, 10 right, 5 left, 6 right, and

voila,itopened.Insidesatpilesofcash,twoRolexwatches,adiamondringthat

belonged to his grandmother, and important documents that pertained to his

business.Documentsthatcouldruinhimifanyoneevergottheirhandsonthem.I

placedthethree-caratcanarydiamondonmyfingerandheldmyhandoutinfront

ofme.Hisgrandmotherraisedhimhiswholelifeandbeforeshedied,shewasthe

most important person in the world. I grabbed a few stacks of cash—about a

hundred thousand dollars’ worth—and the two Rolexes, and shut the safe. As I

was putting the painting back on the wall, my eyes caught sight of his

grandmother’sring.Guiltstartedtowashoverme.AsmuchasIwantedtokeep

the priceless beauty, I knew it would devastate him if it went missing. He was

alreadygoingtobedevastatedenoughoncehefoundoutIhadconnedhim.SoI

reopened the safe and placed it back inside the little red velvet box that kept it

secure.

I grabbed the small overnight bag that I packed, shoved the money and the

watches inside, and headed out the door back to my apartment, which I rented

fromweektoweek,tookoffmyshortplatinumwig,putonmylongbrunetteone,

andcalledforacabtotakemetotheairport.

When I arrived, I checked in and placed my luggage on the scale. When I

handedtheshortstockymanmydriver’slicense,helookedatitandthenhandedit

backtomewithasmile.

“HaveasafeflighttoNewYork,MissGreaves.”

“Thankyou.”Iflashedmypearlywhitesathim.

Ienteredtheplane,setmycarry-onundertheseatinfrontofme,andsankinto

first-classseat2D.Italwayshadtobethesecondrowandthewindowseat.Ifthat

seatwassoldout,I’dhavenoproblemgettingthepersonwhoboughtittoswitch

with me. First row was out of the question because they always made you stow

yourcarry-on.Anyrowsbeyondthesecondalwaysranoutofthefirstchoiceof

food before the flight attendant reached you. That pissed me off more than

anything.Andthewindow?Alwaysthewindow.Itwasallabouttheviewandthe

peaceandserenitythatIfeltwhenIsawthefluffinessofthecloudsthatenveloped

thesky.NottomentionthefactthatIhatedpeopleclimbingovermetogettothe

bathroomorthefoodcartsbumpingmeastheflightattendantsmadetheirwayup

anddowntheaisles.

Ilaidmyheadbackandtookinadeepbreath,mybrunettewigstillinplace

andmyChanelsunglassescoveringmyeyes.

“Soyou’retheonewhobookedthewindowseat?”Iheardaman’spowerful

voicespeak.

I turned my head and slightly lowered my sunglasses only to find a well-

tailoredblackArmanisuitstaringmeintheface.Allsixfoottwoofit.Myeyes

watchedasheputhiscarry-onintheoverheadcompartment,shutit,andthentook

hisseatnexttomine.Shortlightbrownhairthatwascutinaclassiccrew.Simple.

Stylish.AllAmerican.Astrongmasculinejawlinewithaperfectlymanicuredfive

o’clock shadow, alluring lips, and a pair of men’s Phantom Aviator glasses that

covered his eyes. He radiated a scent. Warm yet cool. Sophisticated. Sea-like

withahintofpatchouli.Hereekedofwealth.

“Excuseme?”

“When I booked this flight, I was disappointed to see the window seat was

alreadytaken.”Thecornersofhismouthslightlycurvedupwards.

ArushofwarmthfloodedmypantiesandIsworeI’djusthadanorgasm.

“Whendidyoubookthisflight?”Iasked.

“Yesterday.”

“Then maybe you should have booked it sooner if you wanted the window

seat.”Ismiled.

“Perhaps.ButmybusinessinSeattlefinishedearlierthanIexpected.”

“MayIgetyouabeverage?”theperkyyoungflightattendantasked.

“Tequilawithasplashoflime,please,”Ireplied.

“Andforyou,sir.”Her“Iwanttofuckyou”smilewidened.

“I’llhaveavodkacranberry.Lightonthecranberry.”Hegrinned.

Iglanceddownathisarm,whichwassittingonthearmrest,andtooknoteof

theCartierwatchthatsatproudlyonhiswrist.Elegant,powerful,andout-of-this-

worldexpensive.Hedidn’tremovehissunglasses,butneitherdidI,soIcouldn’t

very well say something to him. But I was dying to see his eyes. He wasn’t

completeuntilIsawthecolorofthem.Actually,hewouldneverbecompleteuntil

I saw firsthand what kind of package he was sporting underneath his expensive

designerpants.Hewasthetypeofmanwomenfelltotheirkneesfor,andIcould

understandwhy.Hewasbeyondgorgeous.Infact,Idon’tthinkmyeyeseverlaid

onanyonesexier.Helookedtobeearlythirties,thirty-twoatthemost.

“Yourtequilawithasplashoflime.”Theflightattendantsmiledasshehanded

memydrink.

“Thankyou.”

“And your vodka cranberry, light on the cranberry.” Her grin widened as she

handedhimhisdrinkwithanapkintuckedunderneathit.

“Thankyou.”Heflirtatiouslysmiledback.

Rollingmyeyes,Ibroughtmyglasstomylips.Whenhesethisnapkindown,I

noticedshehadwrittenherphonenumberonitwithanotethatread:

“I’llbeinNewYorkforacoupleofdays.Callme.”

IsighedasIsetmydrinkdownonit.

“Oh.I’msorry.”Ipickeditbackup.“Iwouldhatefortheinktosmear.”

Heletoutachuckle.Damnit.Eventhatwashot.

“Noworries.Andifitdid,Iwouldn’tcare.”

“She’scute.Youwouldn’twanttohititatleastonce?”Iarchedmybrow.

“She’scute.Butshe’snotmytype.”

“Andwhatexactlyisyourtype?”Ismirked.

“Brunettes with long wavy hair and,” he reached over and pulled my glasses

frommyface,“richbrowneyes.”

IstaredathimthroughhisRay-Bans,speechlessandgaspingforair.Grabbing

myglassesfromhishand,Islippedthembackon.

ChapterTwo

Gabriel

ThemomentIsteppedontotheplaneandsawtheincrediblybeautifulwoman

sittinginthewindowseatnexttomine,mycockstartedtorise.Longbrunettehair

withahintofwavethroughit,fullsensuouslips,highcheekbones,andapairof

blackChanelsunglassesthatframedherfacetoperfection.Normally,Iwouldask

thepersonoccupyingthewindowseattoswitchwithme,butsomethingtoldme

that this beauty wouldn’t give it up. It was the way she composed herself in her

seat.Sheradiatedconfidenceandthefactthatshekepthersunglassesonindicated

shedidn’twanttobemessedwith.AsIwasputtingmycarry-onintheoverhead

compartment,thescentofjasmineandroseovertookmysenses.Fresh,seductive,

andwarm.Shehadattitude.Ilikedit.TellingmeIshouldhavebookedmyflight

soonermademelaughinside.Shedidn’tfumblewithherwordslikemostwomen

didinmypresence.Shewaspoisedandcarefullyspoken.

“What’syourname?”Iaskedasshetookhersunglassesfrommyhandandput

thembackon.

“First names only.” The corners of her mouth curved up into a small smile.

“Hannah.”

“It’snicetomeetyou,Hannah.I’mGabriel.”

“Nicetomeetyou,Gabe.”Shecockedherheadassheextendedherhand.

“NotGabe.Gabriel.Idon’tdonicknames.”Iplacedmyhandinhers.

“Okay.Nowthatwe’veestablishedyoudon’tdonicknames,whatdoyoudo?”

Inoticedherbrowarchfromunderneathherglasses.

“I’mincorporatebusiness.Andyou?”

“I’manentrepreneur.”

“Forwhattypeofbusiness?”Iasked,forIwasintrigued.

“Handbags,jewelry,shoes.Anythingthatmakesagirlfeelpretty.”Shesmiled.

Hersmile.Illuminating.Radiant.Aone-of-a-kindsmile.Thekindofsmilethat

wouldturneventheshittiestofdaysaround.Mycockwasbehavingbadlyandshe

wouldbetheperfectwomantopunishit.

“IsyourbusinessinNewYork?”Iasked.

“No.I’mjustvisitingafriendforacoupleofdays.”

“Isee.Areyougoingtokeepyoursunglassesonthewholeflight?”Iasked.

“Areyou?Orareyouafraidthatyouwillloseyourpowerovermeandexpose

youremotionalvulnerability?”Asmirkcrossedherlips.

“I’msorry?”Ishookmyhead.“What?”

“Peoplewhowearsunglassesinsideplacesdoitsotheycanintimidatepeople.

Withthatintimidation,comespower.Andthatpowerisamaskfortheemotional

vulnerabilitythatyoupossess.Oritcouldjustsimplymeanthatyouwanttocreate

anauraofmysteryaboutyourself,leavingpeopletoguesswhat’shidingbeneath

thoseglasses.”

Shit.Whatthefuck?

“Sowhichisit,Gabriel?Emotionalvulnerabilityormystery?”

“Icouldaskyouthesamething,Hannah,”Irepliedwithanarchinmybrow.

Sheletoutalightlaugh.“I’mwearingthembecauseI’mtiredandthedarkness

oftheshadeswillhelpmesleep.

“Thenbyallmeans,getsomerest.Iwillwakeyouwhenweland.”

“Thankyou.Youstillhaven’tansweredmyquestion.”

IsighedasIstaredather.

“AndI’mnotgoingto.”

“I’m going to go with emotional vulnerability.” She reclined her seat and

turnedherheadtowardsthewindow.

Didsheevenrealizetowhomshewasspeaking?Somethingtoldmethatthis

one was out of control with her mouth. But yet, I found her irresistible. As she

slept,Istaredather.Myeyesrakedoverthegraycardiganshewaswearingwith

the black tank top underneath and tight black pants. I needed to see her standing

up. My mind only imagined what was hiding under those layers of clothes. Her

facewasbeautifulandIwouldbetmylifethatherbodywasjustassexy.Once

again, my cock started to rise just thinking about me fucking her from behind,

grippingherassastightasIcouldwhileIpoundedinandoutofher,listeningto

thescreamsofherecstasyasmycocksatisfiedhereveryneed.

I hadn’t had great sex in a while. Greta, my newly ex-girlfriend, had become

unbelievably irritating, always whining and bitching at me for something. She’d

bitch when I had to work late and then tell her mom and sister what a horrible

boyfriendIwasbecauseIdidn’tspendenoughtimewithher.We’dbeendatingfor

sixmonths,andforme,itwassixmonthstoolong.Withholdingsexwasherform

ofpunishmentforme.DidIcare?Notreally.We’dbeenbrokenupfortwenty-four

hoursandithadbeenthebesttwenty-fourhoursofmylife.Ihadnochoicebutto

dumpherwhenIwasinSeattle.Icouldn’ttakehercallingmeeveryhalfhourand

then blow up my phone with ridiculous text messages asking me who I was

sleeping with because I didn’t answer. I’d never cheated on her. I didn’t do shit

like that. It wasn’t who I was. Even though I was a rich powerful man, I still

respectedmyrelationshipswithwomen.Itwasherowninsecuritiesthatledherto

thinkIwassleepingaroundwitheverywomanintheworld.Ha.Iwished.

WhenIwasn’tinarelationship,whichIfoundIwasbetteroffnotbeinginone,

I’dhavealotofsexwithdifferentwomen.One-nightstandsmainly.WomenImet

at business conferences, bars, restaurants, business trips. All casual, no strings,

and absolutely perfect. I got my needs fulfilled without all the bullshit drama. I

madeavowthatonceIgotridofGretaandshewasoutofmylife,Iwouldstay

single for a long time. Even if the right woman appeared right in front of me, it

didn’t matter. I was tired of all the harping. It exhausted me and work did that

enough. Running a multi-billion-dollar hotel and resort chain wasn’t easy. There

wastoomuchcompetitionoutthereandIneededtokeepontopofmygameifI

wantedtoremainthebest.

I was the CEO of Quinn Hotels. Our chain was right up there with Four

Seasons, Ritz Carlton, and Mandarin Oriental. Last year, Forbes placed Quinn

Hotels,alsoknownas“Q,”numberfourontheirlistofthetenbesthotelschains

in the world. I inherited the company when my father passed away a couple of

years ago. He inherited it from his father, my grandfather, who started the

luxurious hotel chain back in 1929 and quickly became a huge competitor for

HiltonHotels.

MyworkwasmylifeandthewomenIdatedneededtounderstandthat.Greta

sworeshedid.WhichIbelievedforthefirstmonthofourrelationship.Thenthe

arguingstartedandallthecrying.ThatwomancriedarivermorethananyoneI’d

ever known. She stressed me out more than she made me happy. Why didn’t I

dumphersooner?Ihadalotgoingoninmylifeandhavingtobreakupwithher

seemedtobemoretroublethanwhatitwasworthatthetime.Pisspoorexcuse,I

know. But I was in the middle of opening a new hotel. We ran into loads of

problemsandIdidn’twanttodealwithher.

ChapterThree

Kate

Thebumpinessoftheplanelandingjoltedmeoutofmyseat.

“Whatthehell?Doesn’tthispilotknowhowtolandaplane?”

Gabrielchuckled.“Itwasn’tthatbad.”

“Saysyou.Youweren’tinthemiddleofadreamonthebeach,soakingupthe

sunandbeingservedfruitydrinkswithcutelittleumbrellasbyanincrediblysexy

guy.”

“No.Iwasn’t.AndI’dbeoverlyconcernedifIwas.”Hesmirked.

His smirk made me tighten my legs. I didn’t mention that the incredibly sexy

guyservingmedrinksonthebeachwashim.I’djustmethimandhewasalready

invading my dreams. My eyes couldn’t stop diverting themselves to his shiny

watch.Theplanefinallycametoastopandthecaptainspokeoverthespeaker.

“There will be a thirty-minute delay in retrieving your luggage from baggage

claim. It appears that some of the carousels are not working at the moment and

there’sabackupofluggagefromotherflightsthatwillbeputthroughfirst.”

“Areyoufuckingkiddingme?”IsighedasIstoodupfrommyseat.

“Doyouhavesomewheretobe?”Gabrielasked.

“Ofcourse.Don’tyou?”Icockedmyheadathimasweexitedtheplane.

“Yes,butit’sonlythirtyminutes,”hereplied.“Howaboutwegetadrinkwhile

wewait?”

“IthinkadrinkwouldbefinesinceI’mnotgoinganywhereanytimesoon.”I

smiled.

Ineededthatwatch.

We entered the Delta Sky Lounge, ordered our drinks, and took a seat on a

bright red couch. When Gabriel removed his glasses, I felt the air in my lungs

constrict.Arichchocolatebrown.Seductive.Thekindofeyesthatcouldburna

holethroughyourverysoul.

“So,whatdoyoudointhecorporateworld?”Iasked.

“Alotofshitthatmakesmyheadgocrazy.”Hegrinned.“Whereisyourstore

located?”

“CyberWorld.”

“Ah,you’reanonlineretailer?”Hisbrowarched.

“Yes.”Ismiled.

“What’sthename?”heasked.

“Whydoyouwanttoknow?”

“Whynot?”

“Soyoucanstalkme?”Igavehimaslysmile.

Oureyeswerefixatedoneachother’sandthesexualchemistrybetweenuswas

onfire.HewantedtofuckmeasbadlyasIwantedhiswatch.

“Iwouldn’tstalkyou.I’mjustcurious.”Hebroughthishanduptomycheek.

“I’msureyouhavesomeonewaitingathomeforyou,”Ispoke.

“Idon’t.”

“Someoneassexyasyouissingle?”

“Yes.”Hishandrandownmycheek.

Igulpedatthefiercevibratingdownbelow.

“Howaboutyou?”heaskedasheplacedhishandbetweenmylegs.

“No.Idon’thaveanyone.”

“Someoneasbeautifulasyouissingle?”

“That’sright.”Ismiled.

He took his thumb and ran it across my lips. As a reaction, I took it in my

mouth.

“Fuck,Hannah.Ithinkweneedtogointothebathroom.”

“Leadtheway.”Ismiled.

He grabbed hold of my hand and led me down the small hallway where the

bathroom was. As soon as we were both inside, he shut the door and locked it.

Suddenly,hishandsgrabbedthesidesofmyfaceandhismouthsmashedintomine

without warning. I stumbled back as he held on to me with one arm wrapped

around my waist. Our lips tangled and our tongues greeted each other. This was

what you called an unexpected heated moment. Sliding his suitcoat off his

shoulders, I quickly unbuttoned his crisp white shirt as his hands slid off my

cardiganandthendippeddownthefrontofmyshirt,gropingmybreastsassubtle

moansescapedhim.Hebrokeourkissandtookdownhispants.Thankgodhewas

soblessedinthegoodsdepartment.Thick,long,hard,andbeautiful.Iwasgoing

tohaveanorgasmjustlookingatit.

“Likewhatyousee?”Hesmirked.

“Definitely.”Ilickedmylips.

Heplacedhishandsonmyhipsandturnedmearoundbeforepullingdownmy

pantsandpressinghishardcockagainstme.

“I want you to watch me fuck you in the mirror,” he seductively spoke as he

dippedhisfingerinsideme.

Ithrewmyheadbackindesireasheexploredmyinsides.

“You’re so wet. Are you ready for me?” he asked as he ripped a condom

packageopenandrolleditoverhiscock.

“Yes,”Ispokebreathlesslyasmybodyprepareditselfforhisentrance.

He thrust inside me. Hard. Deep. The feel of him was intoxicating and I was

gettingdrunkwitheachstroke.Hisgriponmyhipstightenedashepoundedinto

me,makingmevoicethepleasureIfelt.Ilookedathimthroughthemirrorandour

eyesmet.

“Don’tlookawaywhenyoucome,”hespoke.

Mybodywaspushedtothelimitsandtheminutehereachedhishandoverand

placeditontopofmyclit,anorgasmrushedthroughme.

“That’sit.God,that’sit,”hepanted.

Onelasthardthrustandhehaltedwhiledeepmoansescapedhimashecame.

I reached my hand around and placed it on the back of his head as his lips

pressedagainstmyshoulder.Hepulledout,removedthecondom,andtosseditin

thetrashcan.Hebentdown,pulledupmypants,andthengropedmybreastsone

lasttime.Ipickedupmycardigan,slippediton,andtookholdofhiswristbefore

heputonhissuitcoat.HelookedatmeasIbroughtmyotherhanduptohischeek.

“Thankyou.”Ismiledasmylipstenderlymethis.

“You’rewelcome.”

Iletgoofhiswristandslippedhiswatchintothepocketofmycardigan.Now

Ineededtomakeaquickexitbeforehenoticeditwasgone.Wewalkedoutofthe

bathroomtogetherandoutofthelounge.

“Itwasnicetomeetyou,Gabriel.”IsmiledasIwalkedtheoppositeway.

“Baggageclaimisthisway?”Hepointed.

“I have a quick phone call to make first. Thanks again.” I bit down on my

bottomlip.

“Thepleasurewasallmine,Hannah.”Hewinked.

IknewJFKlikethebackofmyhandsinceItraveledsomuchandwentanother

waytogettobaggageclaim.WhenIgotthere,Ihidaroundthecornerandwaited

forhimtoretrievehisluggage.Oncehedidandbegantowalkaway,Iswallowed

hardasIsilentlywhispered,“Goodbye,Gabriel.”Afterhewalkedoutthedoorof

theairport,Igrabbedmybagsandheadedtheoppositeway,whereIhailedacab

andwenthome.

ChapterFour

Gabriel

My bag was coming around the carousel when I arrived. I felt a little off by

what had happened and I didn’t want to walk away. She was incredible and I

neededtoknowmoreabouther.ButshedidsayshewasonlyinNewYorkfora

coupleofdays.ItwastimeIputHannahoutofmymindbecauseI’dneverseeher

again.

“Goodevening,Carl,”IspokeasIclimbedintothebackofmylimo.

“Goodevening,sir.HowwasSeattle?”

“Rainy.”Ismiled.“Butproductive.”

“Home,sir?”heasked.

“Yes.”

Iturnedmywristtolookatthetimeonmywatchanditwasn’tthere.

“Whatthehell?”Iloudlyspoke.

“Issomethingwrong,Mr.Quinn?”

Inevertookmywatchoff.IdistinctlyremembereditbeingonmywristwhileI

wasfuckingher.

“Thatbitchstolemywatch!”

“Excuseme,sir?”Carlspoke.

“Nothing.” I climbed out of the car. “I’ll be right back. I have to look for

someone.”

I raced back to baggage claim and looked around for Hannah. Looking at the

carousel where our luggage had come from, it was empty. I stepped outside and

lookedaround.Nothing.Shewasn’tanywheretobefound.Iclimbedbackinthe

limoandtoldCarltotakemehome.

Iwasenraged.Athirty-thousand-dollarwatchgone.TakenbyawomanImet

onanairplaneandfuckedintheskyloungeatJFKairport.HowstupidcouldIbe?

Fuck!IpulledmyringingphonefrompocketandsawitwasGretacalling.What

the hell did she want? I wasn’t in any mood to deal with her, so I sent her to

voicemail.

Carl pulled up to my building at 178 East 94

Street, a townhome I had

purchased three years ago when it went into foreclosure. My family and friends

wereshockedwhenIpurchaseditbecausetheyalwaysbelievedIwasahigh-rise

penthousetypeofman.ThethingIlikedmostwasthehomeyfeelithad.Itwasa

place I felt would be right to have a family someday in the distant future. Or at

least that was what I saw three years ago. Since then, my views on family and

marriagehaddrasticallychangedthankstothecrazywomenI’ddated.

As soon as I stepped through the front door, Grace, my housekeeper, greeted

me.

“Welcomehome,Gabriel,”shespokeasshetookmysuitcasefromme.

“Thanks,Grace.How’severythinggoing?”

“Well, your ex-girlfriend stopped by earlier and cried her eyes out to me,

mumbling something about what an asshole you are and how you broke up with

heroverthephone.”

Irolledmyeyes.“Sorryaboutthat.”

“Don’tbe.TheonlythingIheardwasyoubreakingupwithher.”Shesmiled.

“Don’tgetmewrong;shewasanokaygirl,butshesurewhinedandcriedalot.”

“Iknow.”Isighed.

“I’m going to take your suitcase upstairs and then head home. There’s dinner

warmingintheovenifyou’rehungry.”

“Thanks,Grace.Iappreciateit.”

“Noproblem.I’llseeyoutomorrow.”

I took the bottle of bourbon and a glass and went up and took a seat on the

terrace.Pullingoutmyphone,Icalledmylittlebrother,Caleb.

“Hey,bigbrother,howwasSeattle?”heanswered.

“Itwasgood.Whatareyoudoing?”

“Packing.IleaveforLosAngelestomorrow.”

“Ah.That’sright.Doyouhavetimetostopbyforadrink?”

“Sure.GivemeaboutanhourandI’llbeover.”

“Soundsgood.IcansendCarltopickyouup,”Ispokebymistake.

“Really,Gabriel?”

“Sorry.I’llseeyouinaboutanhour.I’mupontheterrace.”

Caleb Quinn, my twenty-four-year-old determined-to-be-a-rock-star brother

wasagainstanythingmoney.Iguessyoucouldsayhehadalwaysbeentheblack

sheep of the family, at least in my father’s eyes. He hated wealth and wanted

nothingtodowiththeupper-classsociety,includingourfather’scompany.Iwas

allbusinessadventureswhilehewasallaboutthemusic.Hehadmusicinhissoul

anditshowedeverytimehepickeduphisguitar.Ourfatherwasatoughmanwith

a dream of both his sons running the family company, and when my brother

graduatedhighschoolandthrewawayacollegeopportunitytopursuemusic,my

fatherpracticallydisownedhim,callinghimadisgracetotheQuinnname.Ididn’t

carewhatCalebdidordidn’tdo,hewasmybrotherandIlovedhim.

“Hey, bro,” Caleb spoke as he leaned down and gave me a light hug before

takingaseatacrossfromme.

“Hey,Caleb.Drink?”Iasked.

“Yougotanybeeruphere?”

Ichuckled.“Onlyforyou.”

Istoodupfromthecouchandwalkedovertotheminibarthatsatontheterrace

andgrabbedhimabeer.

“Whattimeisyourflighttomorrow?”Iasked.

“Eighta.m.Where’sGreta?Ifiguredshewouldhavebeenheresinceyoujust

gothome.”

Isighed.“Ibrokethingsoffwithher.”

“Wow.When?”

“Acoupleofdaysago.”

“WhileyouwereinSeattle?”Helaughed.

“Icouldn’ttakeitanymore.”

“Yeah.Igetthat.Shewasawhinerandveryinsecure.Ineverunderstoodwhat

yousawinher.”Hehelduphisbottleofbeer.“Here’stoboththeQuinnbrothers

beingsingleagain.”Hesmiled.

“Touché.”Ilightlytappedmyglassagainsthisbottle.

I was embarrassed by what happened at the airport and I debated whether or

nottotellCalebuntilhenoticedIwasn’twearingmywatch.

“Where’syourwatch?Younevertakeitoff.”

Itookinadeep,relentlessbreath.

“You’renevergoingtobelievewhathappened.”

“Don’ttellmeyoulostit.”Hekickedbackhisbeer.

“Itwasstolen.”

“Stolen?Themaidatthehotel?”Hecockedhishead.

“No.ByawomanwhoImetontheplanehomeandfuckedinthebathroomin

theskyloungeatJFK.”

Aroaroflaughtercamefromhim.

“Shutthefuckup!”Hecontinuedlaughing.“Youleftitonthesinkandthenshe

tookit,right?”

“No.Shetookitrightoffmywrist,andIdidn’tknowituntilIgotinthecarto

comehome,”Ispokewithirritation.

“JesusChrist,Gabriel.Howdidyouletthathappen?”Hecontinuedtolaugh.“I

mean,comeon,bro,shejustslippeditrightoffyourwristwithoutyouknowing?”

“Yep.”

“Damn,shemusthavebeenonehellofafuckforyoutospaceoutlikethat.Just

callherupandaskherforitback.”

“Iwould,butIdon’thavehernumber.”

“Ah.”Hefinishedoffhisbeer.“Didyouatleastgethername?”

“Hannah, and that’s all I know about her except that she runs some women’s

online retail shop. She doesn’t even live in New York. She said she’s only here

foracoupleofdaysvisitingafriend.”

Hetippedhisemptybeerbottletowardsme.“You,bigbrother,gotrippedoff

byachickwho’ssittingprettywithathirty-thousand-dollarCartierwatch.”

“Domeafavoranddon’tsayawordaboutthistoanyone.Thislittlemishap

staysbetweenus.”

“Don’tworry.I’mwaytooembarrassedforyoutotalkaboutit.”Hegrinned.

“Thanksforthebeer.”Hestoodup.“Ibettergetgoing.Ihaveafewthingstowrap

upbeforemeandthebandheadtoL.A.tomorrow.”

Ipulledafewhundred-dollarbillsoutofmywalletandplacedtheminCaleb’s

hand.

“Gabriel,Idon’t—”

“Idon’tcareifyoudon’tneedit.Justtakeit.Please.I’vebeenthroughenough

todayandyouturningitdownwillmakemefeelworse.”

Heletoutaheavysigh.

“Thanks,”hespokeashehuggedme.

“You’rewelcome.GoodluckwithSonyRecordstomorrow.Iknowyou’llnail

acontract.”Ismiled.

“Ihopeso.I’llcallyouwhenIgetback.”Heflickedhisfingerundermychin.

“Cheer up, buttercup. The bright side is you can afford to go out tomorrow and

buyanotherone.”

I gave him a small smile, and as he was leaving the terrace, he turned and

lookedatme.

“Iknowit’snotactuallyaboutthewatch,bro.”

Ipickedupthebottleofbourbonandpouredonelastglassforthenight.AsI

stoodandlookedoutattheEastRiverinthemidstofthebrightlylitcity,Iknew

hewasright.Itwasn’tsomuchaboutthewatchasitwasaboutthewomanwho

stoleitfromme.

ChapterFive

Kate

Whenthecabpulledupto16East84

Street,Igotoutandstaredatthefive-

storybrickbuilding.Itfeltgoodtobehome.

“Here’syourluggage,ma’am,”thecabdriverspoke.

“Thank you.” I smiled as I reached into my purse and paid him along with a

generoustip.

IrolledmysuitcasebehindmeasIclimbedontheelevatorandtookituptomy

apartmentonthefifthfloor.Insertingthekeyintothelock,Ipushedopenthedoor

andturnedonthelightswitchinthehallway.Brownboxeswerescatteredallover

thefloorwaitingtobeunpacked.Ihadonlybeeninmynewplaceforthreenights

beforeIleftforSeattle.

ImovedfromChicagotoManhattantobeclosertomydad.WhenIwasalittle

girl,wemovedaroundalot,neverstayinginoneplacemorethansixmonthsto

lessthanayearatatime.Ineverhadanyfriendsbecauseweneverstuckaround

long enough for me to make any connections with anyone. When I was eighteen,

wemovedtoChicago.Mydadsaidthatitcouldpossiblybeapermanentplacefor

us,andifthejobhewasgoingtodoinNewYorkpannedout,wecouldstayandI

could go to college. But he got involved with the wrong people and it ended up

costinghimtwentyyearsatRikersIsland.

Ithrewmycarry-onbagonthebedandstartedunpackingit.PullingGabriel’s

watchfromthepocketofmycardigan,Ihelditinmyhandandthoughtofhim.A

feeling swept over me and thoughts about our encounter in the bathroom sent

shiversdownmyspine.Infact,itwasn’tjustthoughtsaboutwhathappened,itwas

thoughts about him in general. Shaking my head, I snapped back into reality and

finished unpacking my luggage. I couldn’t think about him. I didn’t want to think

about him. I had other things to do. Business. It was now always about the

business.IhadsixrulesIlivedby.

Knowyourmark.

Listenandneverlookbored.

Neverrevealyourtrueself.

Neverstayinoneplacetoolong.

Exitassmoothlyasyouentered.

Neverfallinlove.

Everything I did, I did alone. I didn’t trust anyone. How could I when I

couldn’t even trust myself? This wasn’t going to be my life. Just long enough

untilIpaidoffhisdebt.Ivisitedmydadonceamonth,nomatterwhereIwas.

Itwasimportanttomeandtohim.HewasallIhadleftinthisworld.Ilived

outofhotelsmostofthetimeandsomeofthetimeIrentedanapartmentweek

toweek,dependingonhowlongIwasgoingtobeinoneplace.

Ihadbeenlyingtohimforthepastsixyears.HebelievedIhadbeenliving

inChicagoworkingasawaitressinanupscalerestaurantandpayingmyway

through college taking part time classes. If he knew the truth, he’d be

disappointed,andhewasthelastpersonIwantedtodisappoint.

****

OneMonthLater

Iplacedthelongburgundy-coloredwigwiththeloosecurlsonmyheadand

secured it in place. After popping the emerald green contacts into my eyes, I

dressed in a low cut, short black sleeveless dress and slipped my feet into a

pair of Jimmy Choo peep toe black heels with red bottoms. Grabbing my red

evening bag from the dresser, I hailed a cab over to The Plaza Hotel where

SamuelColdwaterwaspickingmeup.HebelievedIwasstayingthereuntilI

found a permanent place to live. I waited inside and watched out the lobby

doorsforhislimotopulluptothecurb.OnceIsawhimclimbout,Imethimon

thesidewalk.

“Amy,youlooksimplystunning.”Hesmiledashetookholdofmyhandand

broughtituptohislips.

“Sodoyou,darling,”Ispokeashehelpedmeintothecar.

“Iwasgoingtocomeupandgetyou.Youdidn’thavetowaitinthelobby.”

“I was ready earlier than planned, so I thought I’d save you the trip up.” I

smiled.

We were on our way to the Champagne & Diamonds Winter Gala at the

Mandarin Oriental that his company, Coldwater Enterprises, was hosting. It

was a charity event for the support and development of a women’s center for

specialtycare.ItwastobenamedtheCelesteColdwaterCenterafterhiswife,

whopassedawayoverayearago.

“Iwanttogiveyousomething.”Hesmiledashereachedintohiscoatpocket

andpulledoutasmallblueboxfromTiffany.

“Samuel,youshouldn’thave.”

“Justopenit,darling.”

Iuntiedthewhiteribbonandopenedthebox.Reachinginside,Ipulledouta

velvetblueringboxandslowlyliftedthelid.

“Samuel.Ohmygod.It’sbeautiful.”

Hetookthewhitegold,round-cutpinkdiamond—encasedwithsmallerpink

diamonds—ringoutoftheboxandplaceditonmyrightringfinger.

“Itlooksgorgeousonyou,Amy.”Hebroughtmyhandtohislips.

“Samuel,Ican’tacceptthis.It’stoomuch.Wehaven’tknowneachotherthat

long.”Tearssprangtomyeyes.OncommandtearsthatIhadmasteredoverthe

years.ThesametearsIusedtouseonmyfatherwhenitsuitedthesituation.

“Nothingistoomuchforyou,darling.You’reveryspecialtomeandIwant

youtoknowjusthowmuch.”Hecaressedmycheek.

Leaningin,Ibrushedmylipsagainsthis.

“You’respecialtometoo.Thankyou.”

The limo pulled up to the Mandarin Oriental and we stepped inside and

headed to the grand ballroom where the event was taking place. Guests had

already started to fill the room. All of the Manhattan upper class society was

there.WomenweredrippingindiamondsandmenreekedofCartier,Rolex,and

diamondcufflinks.

“MayIgetyouaglassofchampagne?”Samuelasked.

“Aglassofchampagnewouldbenice.Thankyou.”Ismiled.

SamuelColdwater,founderandCEOofColdwaterEnterprises,wasworth

millions. He was a fifty-five-year-old man who stood approximately six feet

twowithsaltandpepperhair.Hewasingreatshapeforhisageandamanwho

took his looks very seriously. I wasn’t the first woman he’d dated since his

wifepassed,butIwastheyoungest.

I walked around the room and mingled with Samuel’s guests, accidentally

bumping into men who quickly forgave me with a glorious “I would love to

fuck you” smile. A smile that would quickly turn to frustration once they

discovered their wallet, watches, and other valuables were missing in the

morning.

ChapterSix

Gabriel

I was standing by the bar talking to a friend of mine, Owen Gray, when a

womanwithcurlybrownhairinaredlowcutdressinvadedourspace.

“Heythere,handsome.”Shesmiled.

“Hello.”Ismiledback.

“Isthatbourbonyou’redrinking?”

“Itis.Wouldyoulikeone?”

“I’dloveone.”Shebattedhereyes.“I’mTashCummings.”Sheheldouther

handwithherwell-manicuredfingers.

“GabrielQuinn,”IpolitelyspokeasIplacedmyhandinhers.

OwenexcusedhimselftotherestroomandleftmeandTashtotalkalone.As

shewasgoingonaboutherex-boyfriend,myeyesglancedaroundtheballroom

in boredom. I needed to find a way to politely escape this woman. That was

when I noticed a woman with long burgundy-colored hair in an elegant black

dressheadedtowardsthebar.Shecaptivatedme.

“Excuse me, Gabriel. Are you even listening to me?” Tash asked with

irritation.

My eyes snapped back to hers. “Yes. I’m sorry. Please excuse me for a

moment.AfriendofminejustwalkedinthatIhaven’tseeninaverylongtime.

We’ll catch up later.” I smiled as I placed my hand on her arm and walked

away.

AsIwaswalkingtowardsher,shewasstoppedbyanotherwomanandthey

begantohaveaconversation.Ihaltedafewfeetback.Thatsmile.Igulped.It

couldn’tbe.ShefinishedherconversationandIfollowedbehindhertothebar.

“WhatcanIgetyou,miss?”thebartenderasked.

“Tequilawithasplashoflime,please.”

IcouldfeeltheangerrisethroughmybodyasIclenchedmyfists.Icouldn’t

letherseeme.Notyet.Nothereinfrontofallthesepeople.I’dfollowherand

wait until she was alone before I confronted her and possibly killed her. I

walked away to the other side of the ballroom, never taking my eyes off her,

watchinghereverymove.Samuelwalkeduptoherandkissedhercheek.What

the fuck? Was she with him? She hooked her arm in his as he led her to their

table for dinner. I took a seat at a table with some friends of mine across the

room,farenoughawaybutcloseenoughtokeepaneyeonher.

“Nodatetonight,Gabriel?”myfriendJordanasked.

“Actually,thewomanIwassupposedtobringhastheflu.Andspeakingof

dates,whoisthatwomanwithSamuel?”

“Ihavenoclue,buthe’ssureoneluckybastard.She’sgorgeous.I’dfuckher

untilmydickwentnumb.”Jordangrinned.

“All I know is her name is Amy and he’s head over heels for her,” Owen

chimedin.“Heboughtherthisgorgeoustwenty-thousand-dollarpinkdiamond

ringatTiffany.”

“Hetoldyouthat?”Iasked.

“IwasintherebuyingabraceletforKitty’sbirthdayandIranintohim.He

wasreallyexcitedtogiveittoher.”

“Isee,”IspokeasIstaredacrosstheroomather.

Samuel got up and exited the ballroom. I suspected he was headed to the

men’sroom,soIfollowedhim.

“Hellothere,Samuel,”IspokeasItooktheurinalnexttohim.

“Goodtoseeyou,Gabriel.Thankyouforcoming.”

“No problem. Anything for a good cause. I couldn’t help but admire your

datetonight.”

“Ah,yes.That’sAmy.Isn’tsheabeauty?She’ssosmartandelegant.She’sa

keeper,thatone.Ihaven’tbeenthishappysincebeforeCelestepassedaway.”

“Yes.Sheisverybeautiful.You’realuckyman,Samuel.”Ismiled.

“Isuream,Gabriel.”Hewinked.

****

Kate

I was eating dinner, and when Samuel got up and excused himself to the

restroom,Iglancedacrosstheroomandsawagorgeous-lookingmaninablack

tux heading out the ballroom doors. What the hell? Shit. It couldn’t be. A

nervousness settled inside me. What was he doing here? I needed to remain

calm.Therewasnowayhecouldrecognizeme.Ilookedtotallydifferentfrom

thatdayontheplane.Differenthair,differentcoloreyes,andadifferentnose.

ButIcouldn’ttakethechance,soIneededtomakeanescapeandgetthehell

outofthere.IwaitedandwatchedasGabrielandSamuelwalkedbackintothe

ballroomtogether.Shit.WhatifSamuelbroughthimoverandintroducedus?I

startedtofeelsick.Iwasn’tjustafuckattheairport.Iwasthefuckwhostole

histhirty-thousand-dollarCartierwatch.SamueltookhisseatnexttomineandI

gentlyplacedmyhandonhis.

“I’m not feeling well. If it’s okay with you, I’m going to head back to the

hotel.”

“What’swrong,darling?”heaskedwithconcern.

“Just a little lightheaded and my stomach doesn’t feel very good. I’m

worriedImaybecomingdownwithsomething.”

“Thenlet’sgo.Youneedtoliedownandrest.”

“Youstay,”Ispoke.“Thisisyoureventandyou’rethehost.Youjustcan’t

leave.”

“ButI’mworriedaboutyou.”

“Thankyou,Samuel.Iappreciateit,butI’llbefine.IfIneedanything,I’ll

callyou.”Igentlysmiled.

“Alright.I’llhaveBrunobringthelimoaround.”Hekissedmycheek.

****

Gabriel

Isawhergetupfromherseatandheadoutthedoorsoftheballroom,soI

followedher.Iassumedshewasheadingtotherestroom,butshewentoutside

thehoteldoorsandstoodatthecurb.Pullingmyphonefrommypocket,Icalled

Carltobringthelimoaround.Iwaitedinsideandwatchedasadifferentlimo

pulled up and she climbed inside, alone. As the limo was pulling away, Carl

pulledup.Ihurriedandclimbedinside,tellinghimtofollowthatlimobuttobe

discreetaboutit.

HerlimopulleduptoThePlazaHotelandsheclimbedoutandwentinside.

Ineededtogetheralone,soIplannedtofollowheruptoherroom.Butbefore

Icouldevengetoutofthelimo,shecamebackoutsideandhailedacab.What

thehellwasshedoing?

“Followthatcab,Carl.”

“Yes,sir.”

The cab pulled up alongside the curb of an apartment building and she

climbedout.

“Carl,followherandgrabthedoorwhensheopensit.”

CarldidasIaskedandassoonassheenteredthebuilding,Isteppedoutof

the limo and followed her inside to the elevator. This was my chance. The

doors began to close, so I stuck my hand in between to stop them. When they

opened, our eyes locked on each other’s. Emerald green instead of brown. It

hadtobeherandifitwasn’t,Iwasindeepshit.

“Hello.”IsmiledasIplayeditoffasifIdidn’tknowher.

“Hello.”Shelookedawayfromme.

I stepped inside the elevator and noticed she pushed the button to the fifth

floor.

“Whichfloor?”sheasked.

“Sameasyou.”

She was nervous. I could smell it and I could tell by the way she stared

straightaheadandlightlytappedherfootontheground.

“You’reverybeautiful,”Ispoke.

“If you’re thinking about trying something, you better think twice,” she

replied.

I silently laughed to myself. That fucking attitude. It was her all right. The

second the doors shut, I placed my hand around her neck and pushed her up

againsttheelevatorwall.

“You have something of mine and I want it back!” I spoke through gritted

teethasIstaredintohercalmeyes.

“Idon’tknowwhatyou’retalkingabout.”

Mygriparoundhertightened.“Ithinkyoudo,Hannah.”Icockedmyhead.

“ThenameisAmy.Youobviouslyhavethewrongperson.”

The elevator doors opened and I released her but quickly grabbed hold of

herarmwithatightgrip.

“Letgoofme,youpsychoticasshole!”Shestruggledtogetawayfromme.

“Thisiswhatwe’regoingtodo.We’regoingtoyourapartmentandyou’re

goingtotellmeexactlywhoyouare.”

Sheturnedherhead,spitinmyface,brokefreefrommygrip,kneedmein

theballs,andrandownthehallway.

“Fuck!”Igrabbedmycrotchandthrewmyheadback.

I ran after her just as she made it inside her apartment, and as she tried to

close the door, I pushed it harder and she fell back. Stepping inside, I closed

thedoorandlockedit.

“What do you want, Gabriel? You want to fuck me again?” she asked in

angerasshecrawledbackwardsonthefloorawayfromme.

“No, sweetheart. I don’t. I want my watch back. As soon as I get it, I’ll

leave.”

She took in a deep breath and got up from the floor. She appeared to have

calmeddown.Icouldn’tstopstaringatherlongleanlegsandherkillerbodyas

shetookoffhershoes.

ChapterSeven

Kate

“Listen, I’m sorry about your watch,” I spoke as I took my shoes to my

bedroomandthrewtheminthecloset.

“Sorry?You’resorry?Isthatallyoucansay?Iwantmyfuckingwatchback!”

heshouted.

“IwishIcouldgiveittoyou,butIcan’t.”

“Whatdoyoumeanyoucan’t?”hespokethroughgrittedteeth.

Iwenttoleavethebedroom,andasIwalkedpasthim,hegrabbedmyarm.

“Again.Whatdoyoumeanyoucan’t?”

“Isoldit.Okay?”

Heletgoofmyarmandplacedhishandsonhishead.

“Yousoldit?”hespokeinacalmtone.“Whothefuckareyou?”

“Someone you never should have trusted,” I replied as I walked out of the

bedroomandintothekitchenforaglassofwine.

Hedidn’tfollowmeoutofthebedroomandthatconcernedme.Ineededhim

outofmyapartment.AsIwaspouringaglassofwine,Iheardallkindsofnoises

coming from the bedroom. When I ran to see what was going on, he was in the

middle of ransacking my room. All my dresser drawers were opened and my

lingerieandclotheswerealloverthefloor.

“What do you think you’re doing?” I yelled when I found him in my closet

grabbing the black leather briefcase I had hidden on a shelf behind my long

dresses.

“What’swithallthewigs,Hannah?”

“Give me that!” I tried to grab the briefcase from his hand as he pushed me

backandIfellagainsttheclosetdoor.

Hethrewitonthebedandopenedit.

“Whatthefuck?”Heturnedhisheadandlookedatme.“HannahGreaves.Amy

Frankel, Becca Wright, Thea Turner, Gizelle Carrington.” He rattled off each

name as he threw my passports one by one on the bed. “Jenny Smith, Briana

Holmes,DianaVermander,NicolePotts.Mygod.Ican’tbelievethis.”

“I’mcallingthepolice,”IspokeasIgotup.“AndI’mpressingchargesagainst

youforassault.”

“Go ahead. I won’t be the only one going to jail.” He glared at me as he sat

downonthebedandfoldedhishands.

I stood there with my back up against the wall, plotting my next move. There

had to be a way out of this. Suddenly, he jumped up from the bed and hastily

walkedtothehallwaywhereIhadmypursesittingonthetable.Ichasedhimand

triedtograbit,butitwastoolate.

“You’rejustacommonlittlethief.Didyoutakeallofthistonight?”Hiseyes

narrowedatmeashedumpedthecontentsofmypurseonthefloor.

IlookedawayasIstoodtherewithmyarmscrossed.

“And Samuel?” he asked. “What were you hoping to get out of him? Did he

give you that ring you’re wearing? Is that what you do? You find rich men, get

themtofallinlovewithyou,andthenripthemoff?”heshouted.“Answerme!”

I remained calm. I could get out of this situation because I was good. He

wantedmeoncebeforeandIknewhewouldn’tbeabletoresistmenow.Walking

overtohim,Iranmyfingerdownhischest.

“Wecanworkthisout,”Ispokeinaseductivevoice.

Ileanedinandattemptedtobrushmylipsagainsthis,buthegrabbedholdof

bothmyarmsandpushedmeaway.

“Youbetwe’regoingtoworkthisout.Packabag;you’recomingwithme.”

“Excuseme?Where?”

“Tomyhouse.”

“You’recrazy.I’mnotleavingwithyou.”

“One night. That’s all I ask.” His demeanor and tone of voice changed. “One

nightforthirtythousanddollars.Ifyouagreetosleepwithme,Iwillforgetallof

thisandwe’llpartwaysandneverseeeachotheragain.”

“Why?”Iaskedsuspiciously.

“Because you look incredible in that dress, it’s a miracle that I’m seeing you

again,andIneveroncestoppedthinkingaboutourencounterattheairport.”

Heslowlywalkedtowardsmeandranthebackofhishanddownmycheek.

“Iwantyoutostaywithmeforthenight.It’stheleastyoucandotorepayme

forthewatchyoustole.”

“Thenyoucanstayhereatmyplacetonight,”Ispoke.

“I’mmorecomfortableatmyplace.Plus,IhaveacouplethingsthereIwould

liketotrywithyou.Afterall,IneedtomakesureIgetmythirty-thousanddollars’

worth.”Hesmirked.

Igulped.HewaskinkyandIfoundmyselfturnedon.Ihadn’tstoppedthinking

abouthimsincethatdayandIcouldn’tevensaywhy.

Heleanedinandsoftlybrushedhislipsagainstmine,nippingatmybottomlip

andpartingmylipswithhistongue.MybodywasonfireandIwantedhiminside

meagain.

“That’saprettyexpensivenight,”Ispokebreathlessly.

“Iknowit’llbeworthit.I’mamanandIhavemanyneeds.NeedsIknowyou

canfulfill.LikeIsaid,Ican’tseemtostopthinkingaboutthatdayattheairport.”

Hishandsranupthebackofmydressandgrabbedholdofmyass.“Youhaveto

admit,weweregoodtogether.”

“Fine.ButIleaveinthemorning,”IspokeasIranmyhandoverthebulgein

hispants.

“That’sfine.I’dwantyoutoleaveanyway.”

Histonguetraveledtomyneckandsliddowntomycleavage.Mylowerhalf

wasonfireandIneededhimtofantheflames.

“Nowlet’sgopackyouabag,”hespokeasheledmebackintothebedroom.

Thiswasmyonlywayout.Iwouldspendthenightwithhimandthenleavein

themorning.OnceIreturnedhome,Iwouldpackupeverythingandmoveoutof

NewYork.Itwastooriskytostayhereanylonger.

ChapterEight

Gabriel

Itookthebagfromherandheldoutmyarm.Shehookedhersaroundmineand

we walked out of the building and climbed into the limo. Carl looked at me

throughtherearviewmirror.

“Home,Carl.”

“Yes,sir.”

I reached over and grabbed hold of her hand, interlacing our fingers together

andstaringattheringSamuelgaveher.Shelookedoveratmewithasmallsmile.

Shewasplayingme,butintheend,she’dbetheonetolosethegame.

When Carl pulled the limo to the curb in front of my townhome, she leaned

overmeandstaredatitthroughthewindow.

“Isthisit?”sheasked.

“Yes.Isthereaproblemwithit?”

“No.Ijustfiguredamanlikeyouwouldbelivinginapenthouseinahigh-rise

luxurybuilding.”

“Ilikemytownhome.It’scozy.”Ismirked.

Iopenedthedoorandhelpedheroutofthelimo.Grabbingherbag,Iheldout

myarmonceagainandwalkedhertothefrontdoor.Oncewesteppedinside,Ilet

herlookaround.

“Wow.Thisisbeautiful,Gabriel.”

“Thankyou.LikeIsaid,it’scozy.Shallwegoupstairs?”Iheldoutmyhand.

“Ofcourse.”Shesmiled.“Howmanyfloorsareinthishouse?”

“Six.Mybedroomisonthefifth,”Ilied.

My bedroom was the entire fourth floor and the fifth floor consisted of three

guestbedrooms,eachwiththeirownadjoiningbathroom.Iledhertotheroomthat

wasdecoratedingrayandplumcolors.

“Afteryou.”Iheldoutmyhand.

She walked into the bedroom and looked around. Setting her purse on the

dresser,shespoke,“Thisseemsawfulsmallforamasterbedroom.”

“Ineedtorundownstairsandgrabsomething.I’llberightback.”

“Okay.I’mgoingtofreshenupinthebathroom.”Shesmiled.

I set her bag down on the floor and grabbed her purse from the dresser.

Walking out of the bedroom, I shut the door and locked it from the outside.

RunningdowntoCarl,Ihandedhimherkeysfromherpurse.

“Gobacktoherapartmentandgrabthebriefcasethat’sonherbedandbringit

backtome.”

“Sir?”Hecockedhishead.

“Noquestions,Carl.Iwillbegivingyoualargecashbonusfordoingthis.”

Icouldhearthepoundingonthedoorcomingfromthefifthfloor.Rollingmy

eyes,Iwentbackupandpolitelyaskedhertostop.

“Letmeoutofhere,Gabriel!”shescreamed.

“No can do, sweetheart. Your first mistake was stealing from me, and your

secondmistakewastrustingme.”IsmiledasIwalkedaway.

****

Kate

I couldn’t believe this. He tricked me and I fucking fell for it. Damn it! I

neededtogetoutofhere.Ipulledontheknobandcontinuedtopoundonthedoor,

yellingobscenities.Walkingovertothewindow,Ilifteditup,butitstoppedafew

inches above the sill. Damn those fucking child safety windows. I could scream

outthewindowwiththehopesthattheneighborswouldhearme,butiftheycalled

thecops,I’dgotojailwithhim.He’dsendthemrighttomyapartmentandthey’d

findallmyfakepassports.Iwastrappedinthisbeautifullydecoratedroomwith

nothingbutaTVformyentertainment.Iwastired.Sotiredandexhaustedbythe

eventsofthenight.Hecouldn’tleavemeinhere.He’dbebackinthemorningto

letmeout.Iknewhewould.IdecidedtomakethebestofthesituationIwasin

andtakeahotbathintheoversizedJacuzzitubtoplanmynextmove.

****

Gabriel

Thepoundingandrelentlessyellingstopped.Shecalledmeeverynameinthe

book and then some. I sat on the couch with a bourbon in my hand. What was I

goingtodowithher?Iwantedmywatchorthemoneyback.Thislittleconartist

wasgoingtolearnthatitwasn’tnicetostealfrompeople.AsIsattheresipping

my drink, I wondered what she was doing. Why did I care? Was she crying?

Doubtedit.FromwhatIcouldtell,shedidn’thaveasensitiveboneinherbody.It

wasapparentshemadealivingbyconningpeopleandSamuelColdwaterwasher

latestvictim.Shewassmart;incrediblysmart,anditwasashameshewastedher

intelligencebydoingwhatshedid.Actually,itmademesick.

****

Kate

Beforeclimbingintothetub,Ipulledoffmywigandletdownmylongblonde

hair.WhenItookoutmycoloredcontacts,myeyesreturnedtothebluecolorthey

were.Ileanedoverthesinkandpulledoffmylatexprostheticnoseandsetiton

the counter. Looking in the mirror, I stared at my natural self. The men I dated

never saw the real me. They only saw what I wanted them to see. But come

tomorrow morning, I would reveal my true self to Gabriel. Wouldn’t he be

surprisedwhenhefoundoutIwasn’thistypeatall.Longbrownwavyhairand

richchocolateeyes.Itdidn’tmatter.HealreadyhatedmeforwhatI’ddoneandI

hatedhimforlockingmeupinthisroomlikeaprisoner.

****

Gabriel

I tossed and turned all night waiting for the pounding and screaming to start

again,butitdidn’t.Shekeptquiet.Iwasworried.Wouldshedosomethingstupid?

Nah. She was too strong of a woman to do that. She was plotting her escape. A

woman like that wouldn’t just sit back and take what I’d done to her lightly. I

grabbedthekeytotheroomoffmynightstandandwenttocheckonher.Ineeded

tobecarefulbecauseshecouldbehidingbehindthedoorwaitingtohitmeover

theheadwithsomethingandescape.Weneededtotalk.

After unlocking the door, I slowly opened it and stood in the doorway and

stared at the woman who was sound asleep in bed. I smiled at how her long

blondehairlayoverhershouldersasshesleptsoundlyonherside.Thesadpart

wasthatshewasbeautifulnomatterwhatcolorherhairwas.

I turned around and headed downstairs, leaving the door open so she could

comedownwhenshewokeup.She’dtrytoleave,butIhadtheplacesecuredso

leavingwasn’tanoption.IcalledGracelastnightandtoldhernottocometoday.

I first needed to assess this situation with Hannah or whatever her name was.

Walkingintothekitchen,Igrabbedsomeeggsandvegetablesfromthefridgeand

began to cut them up for an omelet. As I was chopping away, my phone rang. It

wasmysecretary,Lu,calling.

“What’sup,Lu?”

“Sorrytodisturbyou,Mr.Quinn,butyoumissedyourmeetingthismorning.”

“Shit.Iforgotaboutit.RescheduleforanothertimeandIwon’tbeintheoffice

today.Ifanythingcomesup,haveThaddeushandleit.”

“Yes,sir.Enjoyyourday.”

“Thanks,Lu,youtoo.”

Iwentbacktochoppingthevegetablesandheardavoiceenterthekitchen.

“Youdorealizeyouleftthedooropen,right?”shespoke.

“Yes.Iknow,”IrepliedasIlookedupandstaredatthebeautifulwomanwith

thelongblondewavyhairandblueeyesstaringbackatme.Igulpedasmyeyes

rakedoverherfromheadtotoe.Shewaswearinganightshirt.Shortsleeved,navy

blue,andnotlongenoughtocoverhertonedsexylegs.“Haveaseat.”

“Why?”sheaskedasshestoodthere.

“Doyouwantbreakfastornot?”Iarchedmybrow.

“Coffeewouldbenice.”

“TheKeurigisrightthereandthepodsarenexttoit.Helpyourself.”

“Andthecups?”

“Inthecabinetabove.”

Shewalkedovertothecabinet,madeacupofcoffee,andbegantowalkoutof

thekitchen.

“Wheredoyouthinkyou’regoing?”Iasked.

“Upstairs to the lovely room you provided for me last night. You know. The

sameonewhereyou’reholdingmeprisoner.”

“Itoldyoutositdown.”Icrackedtheeggsinabowl.

“Idon’tcarewhatyoutoldme.Idon’twanttositanywherenearyou.”

Shewastestingme.Seeinghowfarshecouldpushme.Playingme.

“I said sit down!” I spoke in an authoritative tone. “We have some things to

discuss.”

“Likeyoulettingmegohome?”

“I’mafraidIcan’tdothatjustyet.Notuntilyourdebttomeispaidoff.”

“Areyoufuckingkiddingme?”shesnapped.“Youcan’tholdmehereagainst

mywill.Incaseyoudidn’tknow,Gabe,that’scalledkidnapping.”

MybloodstartedtoboilatthefactthatsheonceagaincalledmeGabe.Ihated

thatnameandIwouldn’tstandforhercallingmethat.

“It’sGabrielforthelasttime!”Ishouted.

Shesnickered.“Someonehasadeep-rootedissue.”

Iinhaledasharpbreath.

“Theomeletsarealmostready.Pleasesitdown.”

ChapterNine

Kate

Iwashungryandhisomeletsdidsmellgood,makingthegrowlinginmybelly

intensify.Itookaseatatthetableinthekitchenasheplacedanomeletonmy

plateandsetitdowninfrontofme.

“What?Notoasttogowiththisfineomelet?”Iasked.

“Doyouwanttoast?”Hecockedhisheadatme.

“Yes.”Ismiled.

Hehuffedandtookthebreadfromthecabinetandplaceditinthetoasterthat

satonthewhiteandblackspeckedgranitecountertop.

“Whatdoyoulikeonyourtoast?”heasked.

“Nutella.”

Hesighed.“Idon’thaveanyNutella.Whatelse?”

“IonlylikeNutella.”

“Well,I’msorrytodisappointyou,sweetheart.Ihavepeanutbutter,jelly,or

butter.Takeyourpick,”hespokeinanirritatedtone.

“Forgetit.Idon’twanttoast.”Isilentlysmiledtomyself.

Thetoasterpoppedandhetookthetwopiecesoutandthrewthemonmyplate.

“Toobad.Ialreadymadeit.Eatitdry,then.Ireallydon’tgiveadamn.”He

scowled.

Hetookhisplate,satdownacrossfromme,andbeganeatinghisomelet.Fuck,

hewassosexy.Itcouldbeworse,right?Onewayoranother,Iwasgettingoutof

heretodayandleavingNewYork.

“So,Gabriel,doyouhavealastname?”Ibravelyasked.

“Doyouhaveafirst?”Hisbrowraisedatme.

“Ihavemanyfirstnames.”Ismirked.

“Noshit.Judgingbyallthosepassports,youmusthavewhat?Twentyorso?”

“About.”

“Name?”heasked.

“Whatnamedoyouwantmetohave?”Islylysmiled.

HeslammedhisfistsdownonthetableandIflinched.

“Damnit!Whycan’tyouanswerasimplequestion?”Hegotupfromhisseat

andthrewhisplateinthesink.

Hewalkedovertome,turnedmychairaround,andgrippedmyarmstightly

withhishands.Hisfacewasmereinchesfrommine.

“Youwanttoplaygames.Fine.I’min.Thisishowit’sgoingtowork.You

stolethirty-thousanddollarsfrommeandIwantitback.Sinceyouseemtoconso

manyrichmen,youmusthaveahugebankaccountorstashesofmoneyhidden

somewhere.UntilIgetpaid,youdon’tleavethishouse.Ihaveahigh-techsecurity

system,whichwillremainonatalltimes.Ifyoueventhinkaboutopeningadoor

orawindow,itwillgooffandI’llbealerted.Ihavesecurityinfrontofthehouse

andintheback.Youtrytosteponefootoutofthishouse,theywillstopyou.”

“FirstchanceIget,I’mcallingthepolice,”Ispoke.

“Goahead.Ihaveyourbriefcasefullofyouraliasesandthekeystoyour

apartment.I’msuresomewherearoundthisworldyou’rewantedandyourass

willbegoingtojailforaverylongtime,”hespokedeadpan.

“Idon’thavethirtythousanddollars.”Ilookedaway.“Icangiveyouthering

Samuelgavemeaspartialpayment.”

“No.You’regivingtheringbacktohim.Youwillnotscrewthatpoorman

over.I’msurehe’sdevastatedenoughoverthefactthathecan’tgetholdofyou.

Sowhatyou’regoingtodoiswritehimaletterofapologyandtellhimyouhadto

leavetown,puttheringwiththeletter,andIwillhavesomeonedeliverittohis

office.”

Icouldn’thelpit.Itwasagutreaction.Ispitinhisface.Ihatedpeopletelling

mewhattodo.Iexpectedhimtogointomoreofarage,buthedidn’t.Hejust

grabbedthenapkinoffthetableandwipedhisfacewithit.

“Dothatagainandyou’llbesorry,”hespokeinacalmtone.

“WhyisSamuelsoimportanttoyou?”Iasked.

“Becausehe’safriendandIdon’tlikepeoplefuckingwithmyfriends.Now

I’mgoingtogetyouapieceofpaperandapenandyou’regoingtowritethat

letter.Understand?”

“Computer,”Ispoke.

“What?”Hiseyenarrowedatme.

“Nohandwrittenletter.Itmustbetyped.Hecouldhavethehandwriting

analyzedanditcouldcomebacktome.”

“How?”heaskedinconfusion.

“Idon’tknow.ButI’mnottakinganychances.”

“Fine.”Hegrabbedmyarmandledmeoutofthekitchen.

“Letgoofme.”

“Andtakethechanceofyourunning?Nothanks.”

“YoualreadysaidIhavenochanceinhellofgettingoutofhere,sowhere

wouldIrunto?”

Heledmetohisofficeandsetmedowninhishighbackburgundyleather

chair.Openinghislaptop,hepulledupaWorddocument.

“Type.”

“Whatthehelldoyouwantmetosay?”Iasked.

“Idon’tknow.You’retheexpertatlying.Youcanstealfrompeoplewithout

themknowing,butyoucan’ttypeasimpleletter?”Hisbrowarched.

Rollingmyeyes,myfingersbeganclickingacrossthekeyboard.

“There.Goodenoughforyou?”Ispokewithanattitude.

“Goodenough.”Hehittheprintbuttonandtheletterspewedfromhisprinter.

Whenhewenttograbthepaper,Istoppedhim.

“Iwouldn’ttouchthatifIwereyou.”

“What?Why?”

“Hecouldhaveitanalyzedforfingerprints.Andifhedoes,howwouldyou

explainyourprintsalloverthepaper?Commonsense,Gabriel.”Ismiled.

“SowhatthehelldoIuse?”

“Doyouhaveapairofgloves?”

“Inthecloset,Ido.”

“ThenIsuggestyougetthem,andwe’llneedtowipetheringcleanbeforeyou

stickitintheenvelope.”

“Waitaminute.Wouldn’tyourfingerprintsbealloverhisplace?”

“Liquidadhesivebandage.”Iheldupmyhandstohimandwiggledmyfingers.

Hetookinadeepbreath,closedhislaptop,andspoke,“Areyouserious?”

“Yes.I’mveryserious.”

Heslowlyshookhishead.“I’llberightback.Don’tmove.”

Withinamatterofseconds,hereturnedtohisofficewithapairofblackleather

glovesonhishands.Hefoldeduptheletter,puttheringinasmallplasticbaggie,

andretrievedalongenvelopefromhisdrawer.Pullingouthisphone,hemadea

call.

“Carl,Ineedyoutodeliversomethingforme.”

“Wait,”Ispoke.

“Holdon,Carl.What?”Helookedatme.

“Youneedtoputitinhishomemailboxbecausehe’sgoingtointerrogateevery

personinthatbuildinguntilhefindsoutwhodeliveredit.Ifyouuseadelivery

service,he’llcontactthemandthey’lldescribeyouorwhoeveryousend.It’stoo

risky.Butwait;hehassecuritycamerasinsideandoutsidehishouse.He’llsee

you.”

“Forgetit,Carl.”Hesighedasheendedthecall.“Nowwhat?”

“Letmetakeittoadeliveryservice.”

Helaughed.“Hellno.YouthinkI’mstupid?Youaren’tleavingthishouse,

sweetheart.”

“Fine.Thenmailitforovernightdeliverybuttypehisaddressonalabel.No

handwriting.”

Hiseyesnarrowedatme.HewaseitherdelightedthatIknewsomuchor

disgusted.Icouldn’treallytell.Ashepreparedthelabel,Ilookedaroundhis

office.Picturesofhimandhisdad,Ipresumed,satonabookcasethatwasfilled

withbooks.Onhisdesksatapictureofhimandayoungerguy,someonewhowas

asequallyashandsomeashewas.

“Who’sthis?”IaskedasIpickedupthepicture.

“Mybrother,Caleb.”

“He’scute.Ibethe’sareallady’smanlikehisbrother.”Ismirked.

“Putitdown.”

Whenhemovedmeoutofthewaytoopenthetopdrawerofhisdesk,Icaught

aglimpseofsomething.Astackofpost-itnotesthatread:Fromthedeskof

GabrielQuinn.HowthehelldidIknowthatname?

“Ohmygod.You’reGabrielQuinnofQuinnHotels,”Ispoke.

“Iwonderedhowlongitwasgoingtotakeyoutofigurethatout.”

“Yeah.I’lladmitthatI’mabitdisappointedinmyselffornotfiguringitout

sooner.Well,well,”Ileanedbackinhischair,“Mr.GabrielQuinnisa

kidnapper.”

“I’mnokidnapper.YoustolesomethingofmineandIwantitback.I’msimply

keepingyouarounduntilthathappens.”Hepointedatme.“I’mnottakingthe

chanceofyouhoppingonaplanetogodknowswhereandmeneverseeingmy

watchormythirtythousanddollarsagain.”

“Youhaveallthemoneyintheworld.Thirtythousanddollarsischangeto

you.”Irolledmyeyes.

“Believeitornot,thirtythousanddollarsisalottome,andwhensomeone

decidestostealsomethingofmine,Idon’ttakeitverylightly.Let’sgo.”

“Where?”

“Outofmyoffice.Infact,youneedtogobackuptoyourroom.Ihavetogoout

forawhile.”

“Seriously?You’regoingtokeepmelockedupinthatsmallroomwhileyou’re

gone?There’snothingtodoupthere.”

“WatchTV.Samethingyou’ddoifyouweredownhere.Nowlet’sgo.”

“Butthekitchenisdownhere.WhatifIgethungryorthirsty?”

Hetookholdofmyarm(Iwasreallygettingsickofhimdoingthat)andledme

tothekitchen.Openingthepantry,hegrabbedabagofchipsandsomealmonds.

Thenhewalkedovertotherefrigerator,grabbedtwobottlesofwaterandan

appleandhandedthemtome.

“There,youhaveyoursnacksanddrink.You’llbefineuntilIreturn.”He

grabbedmyarmagainandtookmeuptomyroom.

“Youknowwhat?You’rearealasshole,GabrielQuinn!”Ishoutedasheshut

andlockedthedoor.

ChapterTen

Gabriel

IsighedasIwalkeddownstairsandheadedoutthedoor.Climbingintothe

limo,IdroppedtheenvelopeaddressedtoSamueloffatthepostofficeandthen

headedtotheofficetopickupafileIneededsoIcouldworkfromhome.

“Mr.Quinn,Ithoughtyouweren’tcomingintoday,”LuspokeasIwalkedpast

herdesk.

“I’monlyheretograbafile.AnythingIshouldknowabout?”

Shegotupfromherchairandfollowedmeintomyoffice.

“YourmeetingfromthismorninghasbeenrescheduledforFridayatnine

o’clock,andMr.Ingramcalledandneedstotalktoyouaboutthedetailsofthe

grandopeningofthehotelinHawaii.”

“Thankyou,Lu.I’llgivehimacallwhenIgethome.”

“Verywell,Mr.Quinn.Enjoytherestofyourday,”shespoke.

“Youtoo.”IgaveherasmallsmileasIleftmyoffice.

Uponclimbingintothelimo,Ipulledmyphonefrommypocketandcalled

Grace.

“Hello,”sheanswered.

“Grace,it’sme.Whatareyoudoingrightnow?”

“Notmuch.Why?”

“DoyouthinkyoucanmeetmeatWholeFoods?”

“Umm.Sure.”

“Thanks.IneedyoutohelpmepickoutsomethingfordinnerandIneedto

discusssomethingwithyou.”

“Okay.Areyoucookingtonight?Icancomebyandcookdinnerforyou.It’sno

trouble.”

“Thanks.Iappreciatetheoffer,butI’mgoingtocook.Canyoumeetmein

aboutfifteenminutes?”

“Sure.I’llseeyousoon.”

IfiguredsinceIwasgoingtobeworkingfromhome,I’dcookdinnerforme

and—thegirlwhostolemyCartierwatch.Onethingwasforsure,shewould

revealhernametonight.EvenifIhadtofuckitoutofher,Iwouldknowherreal

name.

UponenteringWholeFoods,IsawGracestandingintheproducesection

lookingatthepeaches.

“Thanksforcoming,Grace.”IsmiledasIkissedhercheek.

“You’rewelcome,Gabriel.Sowhatisthisspecialdinneryou’recookingand

forwhomareyoucookingit?”

IsighedasIpickedupapeachandexaminedit.

“Ihaveahouseguestandshewillbestayingforquiteawhile.”

“She?What’shername?”

“Well,”Isetthepeachdown,“whenIfirstmether,shesaidhernamewas

Hannah,butthathasproventobeuntrue.SoIdon’tknowherrealnameyet,butI

willfindouttonight.”

Shenarrowedhereyeatmeasshebeganpushingtheshoppingcart.

“Soyou’retellingmethatyoumetawomannamedHannah,butitturnsout

that’snotherrealname,yetshe’syourhouseguestandyoustilldon’tknowher

name?”

Placingmyhandsinmypantspockets,Ispoke,“Yep.”

“What’sgoingon,Gabriel?”

“Shestolesomethingfrommeandshewillbestayingatthehouseuntilshe

givesitback.”

“I’mnotsureIlikethewayyousaidthat.Isshestayingonherownfreewill?”

Shecockedherhead.

“No.Thefirstchanceshegets,she’sgoingtorun.SoIneedyoutokeepaneye

onherwhileI’mattheoffice.”

Shestoppedthecartandshotmeadisapprovinglook.

“Gabriel,whatdidyoudo?”

“Don’tlookatmelikethat.She’saconartist.I’mdoingtheupperclassafavor

bykeepingheratmyhouse.”

Sherolledhereyesandpushedthecartovertothemeatcounter.

“I’mgoingtogooutonalimbhereandassumeyouhadsexwithher?”

“Yes.Aboutamonthago.”

“BeforeorafteryoubrokeupwithGreta?”

“After.ImetherontheplanebackfromSeattle.Butenoughwiththedetails.

Now,whatshouldImakefordinner?”

“Whatdoessheliketoeat?”sheaskedasherbrowraised.

“Idon’tknow.Doesitmatter?She’lleatwhateverImakeandifshedoesn’t

likeit,thenthat’sherproblem.”

“Ifitdidn’tmatter,youwouldhavecomeherebyyourselfandboughtwhatever

youwanted.Youwouldn’thaveaskedformyhelp.Mysuggestionwouldbetoget

somesalmonandacoupleofsteaks.Sheshouldlikeoneortheother.”

“Thanks,Grace.Ioweyou.”

“Yousuredo,Gabriel.EspeciallyifI’mnowababysitter.”Shesmirked.

****

Kate

Ilayonthebed,grabbedtheremote,andstartedflippingthroughchannels,

prayingandhopingsomethinggoodwouldbeontokeepmeoccupied.Hecould

not,andIrepeat,couldnotkeepmelockedupinthisroom.I’dgostircrazy.

Insane.Howdidheexpectmetorepayhimforthewatchwhenhewouldn’tletme

outofthisdamnroom?Ithrewtheremotedownandbeganpacingbackandforth

tryingtofigureouthowtogetmyselfoutofthismess.Istoppedandrantothe

doorwhenIheardfootstepsinthehallway.

“Ifyou’reback,youcanletmeoutofthisroom!”IshoutedasIpoundedonthe

door.

“Hello?”Iheardamalevoicethatwasn’tGabriel’s.

Myheartstartedpounding.Someoneelsewashereandthiswasmychanceto

escape.

“Helpme!”Ipoundedonthedoor.“Canyoupleaseletmeout?”

“Who’sinthere?”themalevoicespoke.

“Pleasejustopenthedoor!”Ishouted.

“Lady,calmdown.Whyareyoulockedinthere?”heaskedashejiggledthe

doorknob.

“Becausethemanofthehouseisholdingmeashisprisoner.Pleasehelpme!”

Iheardhimchucklefromtheotherside.

“Gabrielwouldneverdothat.Whoareyou?”

“Whoareyou?”Iaskedinacalmtone.

“Caleb.Gabriel’sbrother.”

Ah,thecuteoneIsawinaframeonGabriel’sdesk.

“Caleb,youhavetohelpme.Yourbrotheriscrazy.He’sholdingmecaptive

hereinthisroom.”

“I’msorry,butIdon’thaveakey.Where’sGabriel?”heasked.

“Idon’tknow!Hewentout!Pleasehelpme.Canyoufindanythingtoopenthe

door?”

“Umm.LikeIsaid,Idon’thavethekey.Justsittight.I’msureGabrielwillbe

homesoon.”

Washeserious?Ibeganpoundingharderonthedoor.

“Please,don’tleave.”

****

Gabriel

AsCarlhelpedmeputthegrocerybagsinthebackofthelimo,myphonerang

andCalebwascalling.

“What’sup,littlebrother?”Ianswered.

“IcalledyourofficeandLusaidyoutookthedayoff,soIcamebyyourplace.

Want to tell me what’s with all the security men outside and the woman that’s

lockedinsideyourguestroom?Shesaidyou’reholdingherasyourprisoner.DoI

evenwanttoknowwhat’sgoingon?”

“I’monmywayhomenow.I’llexplainwhenIgetthere.”

“She was screaming at me to let her out and banging on the door. Bro,

seriously,whatthefuckisgoingon?”

Ichuckled.“LikeIsaid,I’llexplainwhenIgethome.”

“Whenwillyoubehome?”heasked.

“Inabouttwentyminutesorso.”

“And what do you want me to do? She’s still screaming and pounding on the

door.”

“Ignoreher.She’lleventuallystop.I’llseeyousoon.”

ItookinadeepbreathasIendedthecallwithCaleb.Shit.Ididn’texpecthim

tocomeover,andnowIneededtoexplaintohimwhatI’ddoneandwhyIwas

keepingherthere.ShehadtotalktomeandtellmeaboutherselfsoIcouldfigure

outmynextplanwithher.But,aslongassheremainedtight-lippedaboutwhoshe

reallywas,she’dbespendinganawfullotoftimeinthatbedroom.

AssoonasCarlpulleduptothehouse,Igrabbedthebagsandenteredthrough

theservicedoortothekitchen.WhenIwalkedin,Calebwassittingattheisland

eatingasandwich.

“Enjoyingyourlunch?”Ismirked.

“Yeah,actually,Iam.Gracecanmakeonehellofachickensalad.”

“Didshequietdown?”IaskedasIsetthebagsonthecounter.

“Yes.Thankgod.Nowexplaintomewhatthehellisgoingon.”

“She’sthewomanwhostolemywatch.”

“Shutup!Howdidyoufindher?”heaskedashecockedhishead.

“IsawheratSamuel’sGala,exceptshelookedtotallydifferent.Differenthair

andcoloredeyes.”

“IthoughtyousaidshewasonlyinNewYorkforacoupleofdays.”

“That’s what she told me, which was obviously a lie. She lives here in an

apartment over on East 84

Street. She has a briefcase full of aliases. Different

names,differentlooks.”

“Soyoukidnappedhertogetyourwatchback?”Hisbrowarched.

“Ididn’ttechnicallykidnapher.ItrickedherintocomingoverandnowIwon’t

letherleaveuntilIgetmythirtythousanddollarsback.”

“Thepriceofthewatch?”Henarrowedhiseye.“Where’sthewatch?”

“Shesoldit.”

“Oh.Shit.”Hescratchedhishead.“Soshe’saconartist,Itakeit?”

“Yep. She was conning Samuel Coldwater. He had given her a twenty-

thousand-dollarringfromTiffany.AringthatImadehergivebacktohim.”

“Ouch.”Hechuckled.“Ifsheconsrichmen,shemusthavethethirtygrandto

payyou.”

“That’s the thing. She said she doesn’t and that’s all she’ll say. I still don’t

knowherrealname.”

“Sowhatareyougoingtodo?Youjustcan’tkeepherlockedupinthishouse.

Thefirstchanceshegets,she’llcallthepolice,andthenyou’llgotojail.Doyou

knowwhatthatwilldotothecompany?”

“She won’t call the police. I have her briefcase with all her passports and

differentaliasesandthekeystoherapartment.She’llbetheonegoingtojail.”

“Dude, I seriously can’t believe this.” He laughed. “Here I was coming to

spendalittletimewithmybrother,andIfindouthe’sgotsomegirllockedupin

one of the guest rooms. I thought maybe you were doing something kinky.” He

smiled.

“Iwishitwassomethinglikethat.IguessIbettergocheckonher.”

AsIbeganwalkingoutofthekitchen,Calebstoppedme.

“Hey,Gabriel?”

“Yeah.”Iturnedaround.

“Remember when you first told me about the watch and I told you that I

believeditjustwasn’taboutthat?”

“Yeah.Iremember.”

“Istillthinkthisisn’taboutthewatch.”

Ilookedawayandheadedupthestairs.

ChapterEleven

Kate

IwassittingonthefloorwithmybackupagainstthedoorwhenIheardthekey

gointothelock.Standingup,Istoodinfrontofitasheopenedthedoor.

“Areyoudonescreamingandpounding?”Gabrielasked.

“Iam;fornow,atleast.”

“ComedownstairsandmeetmybrotherCaleb.”

“WhyshouldI?WhywouldIwanttomeetamanwhoturnedhisbackonme

andrefusedtohelp?”

“There’s nothing he could have done. He didn’t have the key and you can’t

unlockthistypeoflockwithacreditcard.”

“Now I have to question what kind of person you really are.” I arched my

brow.“Whohaslockslikethatontheirbedroomdoors?”

“Tobehonestwithyou,theselockswereonthedoorswhenIboughtthehouse.

Ihadfoundthekeystuckedintoadrawerinthekitchen.”

“Andyoudidn’tthinkthatwasweirdorbotheredtohaveitchanged?”Ifolded

myarmsandcockedmyhead.

“Itwasn’tapriorityofmine.Please,comedownstairs.I’llbecookingdinner

forussoon.”

Rollingmyeyes,IfollowedhimdownstairsandintothekitchenwhereCaleb

wassitting.

“Caleb,Iwouldlikeyoutomeetthewomanwhostolemywatch.Womanwho

stolemywatch,IwouldlikeyoutomeetmylittlebrotherCaleb.”

“Nicetomeetyou.Ithink,”hespokeasheheldouthishand.

Placingmyhandinhis,Ilightlyshookit.

“Itakeityouaren’tinthefamilybusiness?”Iasked.

“Howcanyoutellthat?”Hecockedhishead.

“By the way you look.” I smiled. “You’re more rugged than your brother.” I

tookhishandandturneditover,slippingthewatchrightoffhiswrist.“Andyou

havecallusesonyourfingers.Areyouamusician?”

“Iam.”Hesmiled.“Howdidyouknow?”

“Icanreadpeopleverywell.”Ismiled.

“I’msurethatcomesinhandywhenyou’rerippingpeopleoff,”Gabrielspoke.

IshothimalookandthenturnedmyattentionbacktoCaleb.

“Areyouinaband?”Iasked.

“Iam.We’recalledFallenAngels.”

“Coolname.”Igrinned.“Iplaytheguitar.Acousticmostly.”

“Really?Howlonghaveyoubeenplaying?”

“SinceIwasabouteightyearsold.”

“She’splayingyou,Caleb,”Gabrielspoke.

“Foryourinformation,Mr.Quinn,Idoplaytheguitar.”

“Rightyoudo.”Gabrielwinked.

“Call her bluff, Gabriel,” Caleb spoke. “You have that Gibson J-45 around

heresomewhere.Gogetitandlet’sseeifshe’stellingthetruthorlying.”

Gabriellookedatme,hiseyesburningthroughmine.

“Goodidea,Caleb.I’llberightback.”

Rollingmyeyes,Iwalkedintothelivingroomandtookaseatonthecouch.

“Tellmehowyoudidit,”Calebspoke.

“Didwhat?”

“Stolemybrother’swatchwithouthimknowing.”

“Why?Areyouthinkingofgettingintothebusiness?”Ismirked.

“No.I’mjustcurious.”

“Iwouldshowyou,butIalreadytookit.”IsmirkedasIhelduphiswatch.

“Whatthefuck!How?”Hesmiledinamazement.

GabrielwalkedintotheroomandhandedmehisGibsonJ-45acousticguitar.

“Here.Ifyoucanplay,thenplay.”Hisbrowarchedatme.

“I don’t want to because I don’t like your attitude, Mr. Quinn.” I raised my

browasIsetdowntheguitar.

“That’s because you’re lying. You told Caleb you knew how to play to make

himbelieveyouhadacommoninterest.Togainhistrustsoyoucouldplayhim.”

“Whatever.”Ilookedaway.

“I’mgoingtostartdinner.Youcaneitherhelpme,stayinhere,orgobackupto

yourroom.It’syourchoice.”

“I’llstayhere.”

“Fine,”hespokewithanattitude.“Caleb,comewithme.”

Assoonasthetwoofthemwalkedoutoftheroom,Ipickeduptheguitar.The

feelingthatovercamemeeverytimeIheldoneinmyhandsnevergotold.Iplaced

myfingersinpositiononthestringsandbeganplayingAThousandYears,singing

thelyricsasIstrummedeachchord.

****

Gabriel

IsettheknifedownonthecounterandlookedatCaleb.Walkingintotheliving

room, I stood and stared at her while she played the guitar and sang. Her voice

wasbeautifulandtookmybreathaway.IswallowedhardasIplacedmyhandsin

my pockets and watched her. She wouldn’t look at me. She just sat there staring

out the window as she strummed each chord. When she finished, Caleb slowly

clappedhishands.

“Wow.Justwow.”Hesmiled.

Shegotupfromthecouchandhandedmetheguitarwithasadnessinhereyes.

“Thanks.I’mgoingtogoupstairsforawhile,”shespoke.

“Fine.I’llcallyouwhendinnerisready.”

Whenshelefttheroom,CalebandIwalkedbackintothekitchen.

“Bro, did you hear that? I know you heard it. She’s amazing and she wasn’t

lying.”

“Iheardit,”IspokeasItookthesteaksoutoftheirpackage.

“Listen, I have to go. Me and the guys have practice. I’ll call you later. Be

gentlewithher,Gabriel.There’smoretoherthanjustthewomanwhostoleyour

watch.IfeltitandIhearditinthewayshesangandplayedtheguitar.AndIknow

youdidtoo.”Hewinked.

AfterIprepareddinner,Iwentupstairstogetherandfoundshewasn’tinher

room.Shit.Wheredidshego?Iknewshedidn’tleavethehouse,soIwentupto

theterraceandfoundhersittingonthecouchwithherkneesup.

“Thereyouare.Dinner’sready.”

“It’sniceuphere,”shesoftlyspokeasshestaredoutintothecity.

“Thankyou.It’sprobablymyfavoritepartofthehouse.”

Sinceshelikedituphere,Ihadanidea.

“Whydon’twehavedinneruphere?I’llbringeverythingup.”

“I’dlikethat.”Shegavemeasmallsmile.

Placingmyhandsinmypockets,IbegantoheadtowardstheelevatorwhenI

heardhercallmyname.

“Gabriel?”

“Yeah?”Istoppedwithmybackturnedtoher.

“MynameisKate.KateHarper.”

Asmilecrossedmylips.Turningmyhead,oureyesmet,andIgaveheraslight

nodbeforeleavingtheterrace.

ChapterTwelve

Kate

TellingGabrielmynamefeltright.I’dnevertoldanyonewhoIreallywas.IfI

wantedmyfreedom,I’dhavetogainhistrust,andhistrustwaswhatIneeded

rightnow.ButI’dhavetobeverycarefulbecausetrustwasn’tsomethinghehad

ofmine.

Herolledtheservingcartontotheterraceandsetthetablefordinner.Walking

overtothecocoabrownwickerpatiochair,Itookaseatandplacedanapkinin

mylap.

“Thislooksreallygood.Thankyou.”Igavehimasmallsmile.

“You’rewelcome,”herepliedashepouredsomewhitewineintoaglassand

setitdownnexttomyplate.

Hetookaseatacrossfrommeandpickeduphisfork.

“Whotaughtyouhowtocook?”Iasked.

“Myhousekeeper,Grace.Infact,you’llbemeetinghertomorrow.”

“Can’twait,”IspokewithsarcasmasIsippedmywine.

“Doyouhaveanyfamily?”heasked.

“Yes,andI’msurethey’reveryworriedaboutme.”

“Istheresomeoneyou’dliketocall?”Hepulledhisphonefromhispocketand

helditinfrontofme.“Iwouldn’twantthemtoworry.”

Shit.HeknewIwaslying.

“Goahead.Callthem.”

ItookthenapkinandwipedmymouthasIlookeddownatmyplate,breaking

oureyecontact.

“I’mgoingtoassumethatyouliedandyoudon’thaveanyoneatall.Thelies

aregoingtostop,Kate.Doyouunderstandme?”hecommanded.“Areyoueven

capableofnotlyingtosomeone?Orhaveyoubeendoingitsolongthatyoudon’t

evenknowthedifferencebetweenliesandthetruthanymore?”

“Thatisnottrue!”Islammedmyfistdownonthetablebeforegettingupand

walkingovertotherailing.

“Thentellmeonepieceoftruthaboutyourself!”heshouted.

“MynameisKateHarper,that’sthetruth.I’mtwenty-fouryearsoldandI’ve

seenmoreshitinmylifethanapersonmyageshouldhave.Mymotherdiedaday

aftergivingbirthtomeandmyfatherraisedme.Wemovedaroundfromstateto

stateandIneverhadanyfriends.Icouldn’tgetcloseenoughtoanybodybecause

theminuteIdid,we’dmove.Childrengrowupwithbestfriends,Gabriel,butI’ve

neverhadabestfriend.Iwastooafraidtogetclosetoanyone.”

“Why?”heasked.

“BecauseIknewifIdid,somehoworsomeway,somethingwouldhappenand

I’dhavetoleavethem.Thatwasmylife.Thatismylife.”

“Itdoesn’thavetobe,Kate.”Hewalkedovertomeandplacedhishandon

mine.

Asmuchasthetouchofhishandfeltincredible,Icouldn’tallowit.Notyet.

“Youdon’tunderstand,Gabriel.”

“Thenmakemeunderstand.”

Itookinadeepbreath.“Ifyou’regoingtokeepmelockedawayhere,thenI’m

goingtoneedsomeofmyclothesfrommyapartment.Canyoutakeme?”

Thesuspiciouslookinhiseyestoldmethattheanswerwasno.

“I’mafraidIcan’tletyououtofthishouse.You’llrunandIcan’tallowyouto

dothat.”

“JesusChrist.”Iwalkedaway,throwingmyhandsupintheair.“Whatareyou,

anFBIagentorsomething?Handcuffme,then.Idon’tcare.Youknowmyreal

name.IfIrun,you’llcallthecopsandthey’lltrackmedown.I’mnotstupid,

Gabriel.AllIwantaresomeclothessoIdon’thavetokeepwearingthesame

thing.Unlessyouwantmetowalkaroundnaked?”Iarchedmybrow.

“Fine,”hespoke.“GogetyourshoesandI’llmeetyoudownstairs.”

“Thankyou.”Igavehimasmallsmile.

Iheadedtomyroomandputonmyshoes,wentdownstairs,andwaitedfor

him.Icoulddothis.Icouldescape.Ihadonepassporthiddenundermymattress

withaboutthreethousanddollarsinemergencycash.Iheardhisfootstepscoming

downthestairs,andwhenIturnedandlookedathim,hewalkedovertomeand

slappedahandcuffonmywrist.

“Whatthefuck,Gabriel?”Ishoutedasheslippedtheotheroneonhiswrist.

“Youseriouslydidn’tthinkIcouldtrustyou?Didyou?”Hesmirked.

Well,therewentmyescapeplan.Itookinadeepbreathtotryandcalmthe

angerthatroseinsideme.Heledmeoutsidewheretwosecuritymendressedin

blackstoodguardatthefrontdoorandCarlstoodholdingthedoortothelimo

open.

“Watchyourhead,”GabrielspokebeforeIclimbedinside.

“I’mnotstupid,”Isneered.

“Ineversaidyouwere.”

TheridetomyapartmentwassilentuntilIhadaquestionIneededanswered.

“Soyoujustkeephandcuffslyingaroundyourhouse?”

“Yes.”Hesmiled.“Ikeeptheminmybedroom.”

Inarrowedmyeyeathim.“You’resick.”

“SomehowIdon’tbelieveyoureallythinkthat.Areyouseriouslygoingtotell

methatwithalltheguysyou’vebeenwith,youhaveneverbeenhandcuffedduring

sex?”

“No.Ihaven’t.”Istaredoutthewindow,forIwastellingthetruth.

“ThenIfeelsorryforyou.You’remissingout.MaybeIcanshowyousometime

howgoodtheycanbe.”

Itightenedmylegsatthethought.Icouldpicturethewholesceneinmyhead.

Lyingonmybackwithmyhandscuffedtogetherbehindmyhead.Hismuscular

bodyhoveringoverme,doingthingstomethatonlyhecould.Histonguesliding

overeveryinchofmybareskin,teasingmeuntilIorgasmed.Shiversranthrough

melikeabriskwindonawinterday.IinhaledasharpbreathasIcouldfeelthe

wetnessforminmypanties.

“Notgoingtohappen,”Ispewed.

HechuckledasCarlpulleduptomyapartmentbuilding.Gabrielclimbedout

firstandcarefullyhelpedmefromthecar.Throwinghiscoatoverourwrists,we

enteredmybuildingandtooktheelevatoruptomyapartment.

“Canyouatleastun-cuffmesoIcanpack?”Iasked.

“Hmm—No.”

“Gabriel,comeon!”

“Isaidno,Kate.You’restayingcuffed.Idon’ttrustyou.”

“AndIdon’ttrustyou!”Ishouted.

“Okaythen.Sowe’rejusttwopeoplewhodon’ttrusteachother.Nowget

packingsowecangohome,”hecommanded.

“Iamhome,youidiot.Yourplaceisfarfromhometome.”

“I’mnotdiscussingthisanyfurther.Youcaneitherpackyourshitandcome

backwithmeorgotojail.Thechoiceisyours,sweetheart.”

“Whatthefuckisthedifference?Eitherplaceisjail!”Ispokewithanattitude

asIthrewmysuitcaseonthebed.

Inevershouldhavefuckedhim.Okay,yes,Ishouldhavebecausehewassexy

assin,butInevershouldhavetakenhisdamnwatch.Howthehelldidheknowit

wasme?I’ddonethetestbeforeandnoneoftheothershadaclueIwasthesame

person.Ithrewmythingsinthesuitcaseandshutit.

“Here.Youcancarrythis.IhavesomethingelseIneedtograb,”IspokeasI

walkedbackintomyclosetandgrabbedmyguitarcase,pullingGabrielalong

withme.

Weclimbedbackintothelimoanddrovebacktohishouse.AsIstaredoutthe

windowinsilence,Ifeltthehandcuffunlock.WhenIlookedoverathim,the

cornersofhismouthslightlycurvedupwards.Withmyotherhand,Irubbedmy

sorewrist.

“Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome,”hespokeasheuncuffedhimself.“Youcanendallofthis

andgohome.”

“Whatareyoutalkingabout?”

“Yousayyoudon’thavethemoneytopaymeback,butIknowthat’snottrue.

Youconpeople,Kate,forfinancialgain.Doyoureallyexpectmetobelievethat

youdon’thaveanymoney?”

“Don’tbelieveme.Idon’tcare,Gabriel.Idon’thavethirtythousanddollarsto

giveyou.”

“Thenwhatthehelldidyoudowithallthemoneyyoutook?”

Itookinadeepbreathandstaredoutthewindowasweapproachedhishouse.

“Ihadthingstopayoff.”

“Whattypesofthings?Orisitnoneofmybusiness?”

“Ican’ttalkaboutitrightnow.Soplease,justletitgo.I’llfigureoutawayto

getyourmoney.Icandoonelastjobandthenyou’llneverhavetoseemeagain.”

Weclimbedoutofthelimoandhelightlygrabbedmyarm.

“Iwillnottakestolenmoney,”hespokeinanirritatedtone.“Gotoyourroom.

I’llbringyourbaguplater.”

Grabbingmysuitcasefromhim,Ihelditinonehandandmyguitarcaseinthe

other.

“Icancarryitupmyself.”Iturnedmyheadandheadedtowardstheelevator.

ChapterThirteen

Gabriel

Shakingmyhead,Iwalkedovertothebarandpouredmyselfabourbon.Itwas

lateandIwastired.Shemovedaroundalot.Butwhy?Shesaidherfatherwasn’t

inthemilitary,butthatwasalltheinformationsheoffered.Ihadthefeelingshe

hadtobesecretiveherwholelifeandthatwaswhyshewouldn’ttellmemuch

aboutherselforherchildhood.IneededtofigureoutwhatIwasgoingtodowith

herandhowIwasgoingtogetmymoneyback.Istilldidn’tbelieveshedidn’t

haveanymoney,andjudgingbythatapartmentofhers,shewaspayingapretty

penny.

Ithrewbacktherestofmybourbonandheadedupstairstocheckonherand

lockthedoorbeforeIwenttobed.WhenIreachedherroom,Ilightlyknocked

andshetoldmetogoaway.Rollingmyeyes,Iopeneditandfoundherlying

acrossherbedonherstomach,proppeduponherelbowsandreadingamagazine.

Shewasinapurplesatintwo-pieceshortsetandshelookedsexyashell.Her

longblondehairwaswrappedupwithaclipinthebacksecuringit.Itookina

sharpbreathasmycockstartedtorise.

“Ididn’tinviteyouin,”shespokeassheturnedthepageofhermagazine.

“It’smyhouse.Idon’tneedyourpermissiontoenterthisroom.”

“Whatdoyouwant,Gabriel?”Herpiercingblueeyeslookedupatmeasshe

askedinirritation.

“IwasjustcheckingtoseeifyouneededanythingbeforeIwenttobed.”

“I’mfine.”

“Okay,then.Goodnight.”

“Night.”

IshutthedoorandwhenIwenttoinsertthekeyintothelock,Istopped.Fuck

it.Shedidn’tneedtobelockedinthere.Ifshetriedtoescapetonight,she

wouldn’tgetpasttheporch.SoIputthekeyinmypocketandheadedtomyroom.

Iawokeoutofasoundsleepatonethirtya.m.Mythroatwasdry,andwhenI

wenttoreachforthebottleofwateronthenightstand,Ifounditwasempty.

Sighing,Iclimbedoutofbedandheadedtothekitchen.

“Can’tsleep?”IaskedKateasshestoodwiththerefrigeratordooropened.

Shejumped.

“Shit,Gabriel.Youscaredme,”shespokeassheplacedherhandoverher

heart.

“Sorry.Ijustcamedownforabottleofwater.”

“AndIcamedownforsomefood.I’mhungry.”

Seeingherstandingthereinherpajamaswaswreakinghavoconmycock.AllI

couldthinkaboutwashowgooditfeltwhenIfuckedherthatday.

****

Kate

WhenIlookedathim,Icaughthiseyesrakingovermefromheadtotoe.I

couldtellhewantedtodevourme.Hestoodthereinhisblackpajamabottoms.

Hissix-packshredded,chestpuffedout,bicepsthatwereperfectlysculpted,and

thehintofaV-linethatIfoundsoincrediblyattractive.Ialreadyknewwhathe

sportedunderneaththosepants,andasmuchasIhatedhimforwhathewasdoing

tome,Istillwantedhiminsidemeagain.

Hereachedovertogrababottleofwaterandhisarmlightlybrushedup

againstmyboob.Igulped.Oureyesmetforabriefmomentandthenheturnedand

begantowalkaway.

“Gabriel?”

“Yeah.”

“Howdidyouknowitwasme?”

Hesetthebottleofwaterdownonthecounterandinvadedthesmallspace

aroundme.Bringinghishanduptomycheek,hespoke,“Yoursmile.”

ThelookinhiseyeswasseriousanditsentmespiralingdownaslopesofastI

couldbarelycatchmybreath.Ireachedupandbrushedmylipsagainsthis.He

wrappedhisarmaroundmywaistandpulledmeintohimasourkissbecame

deeper.MyhandsrakedthroughhishairashistongueslidacrossmyneckandI

couldfeelthehardnessofhiscockashepressedupagainstme.Hisfingers

slippedaroundthethinstrapsofmypajamatop,slidingthemoffmyshouldersand

lettingitfalltotheground.Hishandsgropedmybreastsbeforemovingdownmy

torsoandslippingdownthefrontofmypajamashorts.Agaspescapedmethe

momenthisfingerstouchedmymostsensitiveandarousedarea.Iheardthesharp

inhaleofhisbreathashefeltthewetnessthatescapedme.

“Wehavetogoupstairs,”hespokewithbatedbreath.“Idon’thaveany

condomsdownhere.”

Icouldn’twaituntilwegotupstairs.Iwassoturnedonandhornythatitdidn’t

mattertomewhetherheusedacondomornot.

“I’monbirthcontrol,”Iwhispered.

Hismouthsmashedintomineashisfingerdippedinsideme.Mykneeswent

weak,causingmetolosebalance.Myentirebodywasengulfedinpleasurebythe

manwhoheldmeprisonerinhishome.I’dalreadyhadhimonceandIwantedhim

again.

Hetightlygrippedmyasswithbothhandsandliftedmeup.Wrappingmylegs

aroundhim,ourlipstangledwithpleasureashecarriedmeintothelivingroom

andlaidmedownonthefloorinfrontofthefireplace.Afterheflippedtheswitch

onthewallandthefirebrightlystarted,hebentdown,removedmyshorts,and

slidhistonguealongmyslickopening,causingmetocryoutinecstasy.The

skillfulnessofhistonguepenetratedmeinwaysI’dneverfeltbefore,bringingme

tothebrinkofanorgasm.Myheartwasracingandmybreathhitchedasmylegs

tightenedaroundhisheadandIletoutahowlasIcame.

“Beautiful.Justbeautiful.”Hesmiledasslippedoffhispajamabottomsand

hoveredoverme.

Asamazingasthatorgasmwas,Iknewthebestwasyettocome.Hislips

brushedagainstminebeforetravelingdowntomybreastswherehismouth

wrappedaroundmyhardenednippleandhistonguemovedarounditincircular

motions.Hetookholdofmywristsandbroughtthemovermyhead,interlocking

themwithonehandwhileheusedtheothertoguidehiscockinsideme.Thefirst

thrustwasslowandsensualashiseyesstaredintomine.Itookhimin,hisentire

length,andgaspedatthecontentmentthattookovermybody.Hemovedinandout

ofmewithlongdeepstrokesasheheldontomywristsandhisfreehandgroped

mybreast.Hisheaddippedandourlipsmetonceagain.Afterafewinvigorating

thrusts,herolledoveronhisbackandpulledmeontopofhim.Myhandsplanted

themselvesfirmlyonhismuscularchestasmyhipsmovedbackandforth,

grindingagainsthishardcock,sendingmybodyintooverdrive.Hisarmsclutched

aroundmybackashesatup,forcingmylegstowraparoundhiswaist.Islowly

movedupanddownandthenbackandforthasmoansescapedbothourlipsand

theytangledtothesamerhythmofourmovements.

“God,youfeelamazing,”Gabrielwhispered.

“Sodoyou.I’mgoingtocomeagain,”Ipanted.

“Trytoholdoffandwaitforme.I’mclose.”

Moansescapedussimultaneouslywhilewemovedtogether,bringingustothe

heightenedstatethatwebothdesperatelyneeded.Iwasthere,mybodywasready,

andtherewasnoholdingback.

“OhGod.”Ithrewmyheadbackasmylegstightenedaroundhiswaist.

Heheldmedownandmoanedashestrainedtopusheverydropofcomehe

hadinsideme.Ourbodiesrelaxedandmyheadlayonhisshoulderwhileour

heartratesfellbackintonormalrange.TheangerIhadkeptinsidemeforhim

startedtodissipate.Hebrokeourembraceandpushedmyhairfrommyface,

givingmeasmilethatsentshiversdownmyspine.

“Webettergetsomesleep,”hespoke.

“Yeah.Ithinkweshould.”

“I’mnotsosuresleepinginthesamebedisagoodidea.”

“Probablynot.”Myeyesstaredintohis.

Iclimbedoffhim,slippedintomypajamashorts,andthenwentintothekitchen

toretrievemyshirt.WhenIwalkedbackintothelivingroom,Gabrielwas

standingthereinhispajamabottomswithhisarmheldout.Placingmineinhis,

weheadedupthenumerousflightsofstairs.HestoppedonthefourthfloorandI

continueduponemoreflighttomyroom.

IfeltlikeIwasinadaze,asiftheworldaroundmestoodstill;afeelingthat

I’donlyfeltoncebeforeinmyentirelife.Thatdayattheairportwhenwewere

together.ButIquicklyletitgobecauseIknewI’dneverseehimagain.NowI

wouldseehimeverydayandIwasn’tsurehowIwouldbeabletohandleit.I

washappyhewantedtosleepinseparateroomsbecauseifIwasthere,inhisbed,

wrappedaroundhissexyandwarmbodyallnight,Ididn’tthinkIwouldbeable

togothroughwithmyplan.Ineededtokeepmyemotionsoutofthisandata

distance.ItwassomethingIhadmasteredalongtimeago,butGabrielwas

differentfromanyothermanIdatedorhadsexwith,anditscaredtheshitoutof

me.

ChapterFourteen

Gabriel

Iclimbedintobed,hersmellstilllingeringallovermybodyandthetasteof

her still on my lips. Rolling on my side, I stared at the empty spot where she

shouldhavebeenlying.ButIcouldn’tallowit,becauseifIdid,Iwasn’tsureifI

couldlethergoonceallwassaidanddone.Ineededtorememberwhatkindof

person she was. Kate Harper conned rich men for their money. She used them,

madethemfallinlove,andthenstolerightoutfromunderthem.

The next morning, after I showered and got dressed for the office, I went

downstairstothekitchen,whereGracewaspreparingbreakfast.

“Goodmorning,Gabriel.”Shesmiled.

“Morning.Issheupyet?”IaskedasImadeacupofcoffee.

“NotthatIknowof.Bytheway,didyoufindouthername?”

“HernameisKateHarper.IguessIbettergocheckonher.”

Taking my coffee with me, I took the elevator to the fifth floor, and when I

lightlypushedthedooropen,Ifoundhersoundasleepinherbed.Thecornersof

mymouthcurvedupwardsintoasmallsmileasIleanedupagainstthedoorway

andstaredather.Shelookedlikeanangel,butanangelwassomethingshewas

farfrom.

“She’sstillsleeping,”IspoketoGraceasIsetmycoffeecuponthecounter.“I

have to leave for the office now. If she gives you any trouble, call me

immediately.”

“Iwill.ButI’msureshewon’tbeaproblem.”

Ichuckled.“Youhaven’tmetheryet.”

****

Kate

IletoutalongyawnasIstretchedmybodyacrossthebed.Iturnedmyhead

towards the window, taking note of the streaks of sunlight that cascaded through

the sheer blinds. Climbing out of bed, I hopped into the shower first before

headingdownstairsforsomecoffee.AsImademywayintothekitchen,Inoticea

shorterwoman,aboutfivefootfourwithsandybrownhairthatsatinabunontop

ofherhead,standingatthestove.

“YoumustbeGrace,”Ispoke.

She turned around, stared at me for a brief moment, and then gave a friendly

smile.

“YoumustbeKate.”Sheheldouthersmallslenderhand.

Placingmyhandinhers,Ispoke,“Yes,andI’msureGabrielhastoldyouall

aboutme.”

“Justabit.Wouldyoulikesomecoffee?”

“Thatwouldbegreat.Thankyou,”IspokeasItookaseatonthestoolatthe

island.

“He did tell me that you stole something from him and you’d be staying here

untilhegotitback.MayIaskwhatyoutook?”

“HisCartierwatch.”

“Oh.”Shebitherlipassheplacedacupofcoffeeinfrontofme.

“IsGabrielhere?”Iasked.

“No.He’sleftfortheofficealready.CanImakeyousomebreakfast?”

“I can make it myself. I’m sure you have other things to do around this

monstroushouse.”

“It’s no trouble. Do you like French toast?” She smiled. “I have strawberries

andwhippedcreamtoputontopofit.”

“Thatsoundsreallygood.”Agrincrossedmyface.

Graceseemedcoolandsofar,Ihadgottentheimpressionthatshedidn’tjudge

meforwhatI’ddone.Sheappearedtobeinhermid-fifties,worenomakeup,and

hadbeautifulbrowneyes.

“HowlonghaveyouworkedforGabriel?”IaskedasItookasipofmycoffee.

“A couple of years. I used to work for his father, and after he passed away,

Gabrielhiredmetoworkforhim.”

“Oh.Soyou’veknownhimforalongtime?”

“Sincehewastenyearsold.”Shesmiled.

“Then you must know him well. Does he normally kidnap women and keep

themhostageinhishouse?”

Sheletoutalightlaugh.“No,sweetie,you’rethefirst.”

“Aren’tItheluckyone.”Isippedmycoffee.

“Gabrieltellsmeyou’reaconartist.”

“I prefer the term ‘entrepreneur.’” I smirked. “You don’t by any chance have

aboutthirtygrandyoucanlendmesoIcangetoutofhere,doyou?”

“I wish.” She placed the French toast on a plate, topped it with strawberries

andwhippedcream,andsetitdowninfrontofme.“Gabrielisagoodman,Kate,

andhedidn’tdeservetoberippedoff.”

Andherecamethejudging.

“Ifhe’ssogreat,whyishestillsingle?”Iarchedmybrowather.

“He’saverybusymanandrelationshipsaren’thistoppriorityrightnow.He

justendedasix-monthrelationship.”

“Why?”IaskedasItookabiteofmyFrenchtoast.

“Gretawasn’ttherightgirlforhim.”

“Andwhoistherightgirlforhim?”Iasked.

“Someonewhoiskind,truthful,selfless,andunderstandingofhiswork.”Her

browraisedinanaccusatorywayatme.

“Listen,Grace.Youdon’tknowanythingaboutmeorwhatI’vebeenthrough,

sostopwiththejudgeyeyes.”

“Everybody has been through something, Kate. So stop playing the victim

becausetheworlddealtyouabadhand.Whatdoesyourmotherthink?Ordoesn’t

sheknowexactlywhatyoudo?”

Wow.Wasthiswomanserious?Whothehelldidshethinkshewastalkingto

melikethat?

“I don’t and have never had a mother. She passed away the day after giving

birthtome.”

Thejudgmentinhereyesdissipatedasshestaredatme.

“I’msorry.Whataboutyourfather?”

“He’snotaround.”IlookeddownasIplacedmyforkontheplate.

“Soyou’reallalone?”sheaskedasshetookmyemptyplate.

“Basically.”Igotupfrommystool.“ThanksfortheFrenchtoast,”IspokeasI

walkedawaybeforeshehadachancetoaskanymorequestionsorfelttheneedto

beratemesomemore.

I distinctly remembered Gabriel telling me at the airport that he was single.

Didhelie?DidhejustsaythatsoI’dlethimfuckme?Ifthatwasthecase,thenhe

deservedtohavehiswatchstolen.Ineededtofindoutwhenhebrokeitoffwith

thatwomannamedGretaandwhy.

ChapterFifteen

Gabriel

IwassittingbehindmydeskonaphonecallwhenmybrotherCalebpopped

hisheadthroughthedoor.Wavingmyhand,Imotionedforhimtocomein.

“Thanks,Brian.Mydesignteamwillbeintouch.”

Iendedthecallandleanedbackinmychair.

“What’sup,Caleb?Youneverdropbytheoffice.”

“I know, but I was just down the street having lunch, so I thought I’d drop in

andseehowthingsweregoing.Didyoufindouthernameyet?”Hesmirked.

“HernameisKateHarperandshe’satwenty-four-year-oldwomanwhowas

raisedbyherfather.”

“SodoesthatmeanDaddyalsoconnedpeople?”

“Idon’tknow.Shewon’ttalkabouthim.Butshedidsaytheymovedarounda

lot,soI’massuminghedid.”

“What are you going to do with her? You can’t keep her locked up in your

house.”

Isighed.“Iknow.Iwasthinkingaboutgivingherajobhere.”

A light chuckle escaped him. “Seriously? Doing what? Listen, big brother, I

knowthere’ssomethinginsideyouthatfeelslikeyouneedtosaveher.Ijustthink

itwouldbeinyourbestinteresttocutherloose.Forgetaboutthewatchandjust

moveon.Youdon’tneedthatkindofbullshitinyourlife.She’saconartist,bro.

Once a con always a con, and there will be nothing you can do or say that will

everchangethat.”

Bringing my index fingers together, I brought them up to my lips. “I’m fully

awareofthat.But—”

“Ohcomeon.”Helaughed.“Don’ttellmeyou’reinlovewithher?”

“I’mnotinlovewithher.There’sjustsomethingabouther.”

“Iknowthat,Gabriel.I’mnotstupidandItoldyouthatitwasaboutmorethan

just the watch before. She’s toxic and you don’t need that in your life. Isn’t that

whyyougotridofGreta?”

“Gretawasachild.”

Hepointedhisfingeratme.“Iknowwhatthisis.”Heshookit.“Thisisabout

you being a rebel and doing something no one would ever expect from Gabriel

Quinn.YouspentyourwholelifedoingwhatDadwantedyoutodo.Younevergot

in trouble and you stayed on the path of his life. Now this woman that is every

kindofwrongentersyourworld,anditexcitesyou.”

“Maybe.”Ishrugged.

“Oritcouldbebecauseshe’snotfallingatyourfeetlikeninety-ninepercentof

thewomendo.Youseeherasachallenge.”

“Maybe.”Ismirked.

Hesatacrossfrommewithasmileonhisface,shakinghishead.

“Ihavetogo.”Hegotupfromhischair.“We’replayingattheCrowfoottonight

ifyouwanttocome.Andifyoudo,bringKatealong.”

“Maybe.”Igavehimasmallsmile.

IspenttheentiredaythinkingaboutKate.Itwascrazyhowmuchthiswoman

wasonmymind.Calebwasright;Ididhavesomesortoffeelingsforher.Iknew

deepdownandunderneaththefaçadeofhercons,therewasalittlegirllost.

Whenfiveo’clockapproachedandI’dfinishedsigningthelastofthecontracts,

I packed up my briefcase and headed home. When I walked through the door,

Gracewasputtingonhercoat.

“Howdiditgotoday?”Iasked.

“Well,ImadeherFrenchtoastforbreakfast,wespoke,andthenshewentback

uptoherroom.ThatwasthelastIsawofher.”

“Shehasn’tbeendownallday?”Iasked.

“No,andtobehonest,Ipreferredit.Shehasalittlesassymouth.”

I chuckled. “I know she does. Have a good night. I’ll see you tomorrow.” I

kissedhercheek.

Settingmybriefcasedown,Itooktheelevatoruptothefifthfloorandlightly

knockedonthedoortoherroom.

“Comein.”

“Howwasyourday?”IaskedasIstoodinthedoorway.

“Howdoyouthinkmydaywas,Gabriel?”

“Ifyouchosetostayinyourroomallday,thatwasyourproblem.Youhadfree

roamoftheentirehouse.”

“WhatamI?Adog?”Herbrowarchedatme.

Icouldn’thelpbutsmileathersarcastictone.

“Getchanged.We’regoingouttodinner.”

“Youwanttobeseeninpublicwithme?”sheasked.“Aren’tyoutakingahuge

risk?”

“Justgetchangedandputonsomethingnice.We’regoingtoDaniel.”

“What’s wrong with this?” She pointed to her gray yoga pants and pink tank

top.

“Kate,pleasejustdoasIask.”Isighed.

“I’mnotgoingifyouhandcuffme.”

“IpromiseIwon’thandcuffyou.Butifyoudecidelateryouwouldliketobe

handcuffed, perhaps to my bed, I would take great pleasure in fulfilling your

wishes.”Ismirked.

“You’resick.GetoutofheresoIcanchange.I’llmeetyoudownstairs.”She

threwapillowatme.

IletoutalightlaughasIshutthedoor,headedtomybedroom,andchangedmy

clothesfordinner.AsIwaitedforhertocomedown,Ipouredmyselfabourbon

andtookaseatonthecouch.Afewmomentslater,Ilookeduptoseeherwalking

down the stairs in a short black strapless dress and stiletto heels. Her hair was

pinned up with strands of curls framing her face. She was simply stunning and I

couldn’ttakemyeyesoffher.

“Whatdoyouthink?”Shesmiledasshedidatwirl.

“Youlookbeautiful.”Igrinned.

“MorebeautifulthanHannah?”Hercheeksblushed.

Iwalkedovertoherandplacedmyfingerunderneathherchin.

“Yes.You’remorebeautifulasKate.”

****

Kate

I could feel the heat rise in my cheeks when he said that and a wetness flow

downbelow.Therewassomethingabouthimthatmademetrembleeverytimehe

lookedatme.MaybeitwasbecausehesawmeasKate,therealme.Heheldout

hisarm.

“Areyougoingtoattempttorun?”heasked.

“No. That would be foolish of me since I’m starving.” I smirked as I hooked

myarmaroundhis.

“Thenlet’sgoeat.”

Gabrielorderedusabottleoftheirfinestchampagneandwestartedoffwitha

Mainelobstersalad.

“Tellmeaboutyourself,Gabriel,”IspokeasIpickedupmyglass.

“Whatexactlydoyouwanttoknow?”

“Anything.Tellmeaboutyourfamily.”

“Well,” he picked up his glass of champagne, “I was born and raised here in

New York City. My father and mother never divorced but stayed unhappily

married. You already know I have a brother, who is my only sibling, and I took

overthefamilybusinesswhenmyfatherdiedtwoyearsago.”

“I’msorryforyourloss.Ifyoudon’tmindmeasking,howdidhepassaway?”

“Pancreatic cancer.” He set down his drink. “It was very sudden and a

complete shock to all of us. When he was diagnosed, he was already in stage 4

andpassedawayacoupleofmonthslater.”

“That’sawful.Werethetwoofyouclose?”Iasked.

“Wewere.ButnotsomuchhimandCaleb.Myfatherwantedbothhissonsto

runthecompany,butCalebdidn’tlikethesilverspoonhewasbornwith.”

“Howso?”Icockedmyhead.

“Hehatesanythingwealth,ifthatmakessense.Hegotkickedoutofmoreprep

schoolsthanIcouldcount,andhungaroundwithhisowncrowd.Acrowdthatmy

parentsdidn’tapproveof.”

“Why?Becausetheyweren’trichenough?”Ismirked.

“Prettymuch.TheonlythingCalebwantedtodowasplaymusic.Assoonas

hegraduatedhighschool,hespentthesummerinLosAngelesandwhenhecame

back, he told my father he wasn’t going to college and he wanted nothing to do

withQuinnHotels.”

“I’msureyourfatherlovedthat.”

He sighed. “He kicked him out, took away his trust fund, and didn’t speak to

himforfiveyears.”

“Andyourmother?”

“She would try to get in contact with him, but he held her just as much

responsiblebecauseshedidn’ttrytomakemyfatherunderstand.Sincethefuneral,

they’vestartedtoreconnect,buttheyhavealongwaytogo.”

“Icantellthatthetwoofyouareveryclose.”

“We are. We always have been. Music is in his soul and it’s his passion. I

neverhavenorwouldIeverletanythingcomebetweenus.Mybrotherismybest

friendand,honestly,Idon’tknowwhatI’ddowithouthim.”

Asmallsmilecrossedmylips.

ChapterSixteen

Kate

Listening to Gabriel talk about his brother made me envious. I had always

wanted a sibling or a dog because then maybe my life wouldn’t have been so

lonely.

“Tellmemoreaboutyou,”hespoke.

“There’snothingmoretotell.”

“Idon’tbelieveyou.”Hisbrowraised.“Whataboutyourbusiness?Handbags,

jewelry,shoes.Allthethingsthatmakeagirlfeelpretty.”

IbitdownonmybottomlipasIstaredathim.

“Idon’twanttodiscussthat,”Ispoke.

“Why?Becausethereisnobusinesswithhandbags,jewelry,shoes,andallthe

thingsthatmakeagirlfeelpretty?”

“Youknowwhatmybusinessis,Gabriel.”

“Ah.”Hetiltedhisheadback.“Themenyouconbuyyouhandbags,jewelry,

shoes,andallthethingsthatmakeagirlfeelpretty.”

“Yes.”Inodded.

He leaned across the table. “Tell me how you do it. How do you find these

men?”

Before I could answer him, a shocked expression overtook his face as he

staredovermyshoulder.

“What’swrong?”Iasked.

“Shit.SamuelColdwateriswalkingthisway.Whatifherecognizesyou?”

“Hewon’t.”

“Fuck.Wecan’ttakethatchance.Wehaveto—”

“Gabriel,it’sgoodtoseeyou.”Samuelsmiledasheheldouthishand.

“Samuel.Goodtoseeyouaswell.”

Samuel’s eyes diverted to me. “And may I ask whom this beautiful woman

havingdinnerwithyouis?”

“ThisisKateHarper.Kate,IwouldlikeyoutomeetSamuelColdwater.”

“It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.” I smiled as I spoke with a light

southernaccent.

“Thepleasureisallmine,dear.”

“Areyouherealone?”Gabrielaskedhim.

“I’mmeetingacolleaguefordinner.Infact,Iseehimrightoverthere.Itwas

goodtoseeyouGabrielandapleasuremeetingyou,Kate.”

Igavehimasmile.HeplacedhishandonGabriel’sshoulderbeforewalking

away,andGabrielletoutasighofrelief.

“Itoldyouhewouldn’trecognizeme.”

“Let’sgetoutofhere,”hespokeashethrewsomecashforthebillonthetable

andwelefttherestaurant.

As soon as we climbed into the limo, I turned to him and spoke, “He didn’t

looktoobrokenupoverAmyleavinghim.”

“Hewasthereonbusiness,soI’msurehe’scamouflagingthepainhe’sfeeling

inside.”

Irolledmyeyesandlookedoutthewindow.

“Youneveransweredmyquestion,”Gabrielspoke.

“Whatquestionwasthat?”

“Howdoyoufindthemenyoudotoripoff?”

“Research.Theinternetisapowerfultool.”Ismirked.

“You’reanincrediblyintelligentwoman,Kate.Whywasteyourintelligenceby

doingwhatyoudo?”

Iturnedaway.Ididn’tlikewhatIdid.Infact,Ihatedit,butIhadnochoice.

“I’mnotwastingmyintelligenceregardlessofwhatyoubelieve,Gabriel.”

Thelimopulleduptothecurbofhistownhome.Whenweenteredthehouse,I

frozewhenGabrielaskedmeaboutmyfather.

“Whereisyourfather?”

I started walking up the stairs, ignoring his question because I didn’t want to

talkabouthim.Thelessheknew,thebetterforbothofus.

“Answerme!”hespokeinaharshtoneashelightlygrabbedholdofmyarm.

“Letgoofme!”Iyelled.

“Notuntilyoutellmeaboutyourfather.Washeaconartistalso?Isthatwhy

youmovedaroundsomuchasachild?Didheteachyouhowtoconpeople?”

I stared into his angry eyes. Why the fuck did he care so much? An

uncontrollablemovementhappenedasIsmashedmymouthagainsthis.Hishand

let go of my arm and wrapped his around my waist, holding me steady and in

placewhileoursteamykisscontinued.Inoneswoop,hepickedmeupandcarried

meinhisarmsupfiveflightsofstairs,ourlipsneverleavingeachother’s.

He lay me down on my bed, hovering over me as he placed his hand up my

dress,pushedmypantiestotheside,andplungedhisfingerinsideme.Igaspedas

Itiltedmyheadbackandhistonguesweptovermyneck.Hislips,hishands,and

hishardcockmademefeelsogoodeverytime.Sexwithhimmademeforgetall

the bad things that I’d done and all the people I’d used. With him, I was in the

moment.Withtheothers,Iwenttoafarawayplace.Iwasjustme,KateHarper,a

girlwhowasborninBoise,Idaho.ThegirlIwasbeforealltheothers.

His finger explored me while light moans escaped him as he felt the rush of

wetnessemergefromme.

“I’mgoingtokeepdoingthisuntilyoucome,”hewhisperedashisteethnipped

atmyear.“Nomatterhowlongittakes.”

Myheartrateacceleratedfasteranditwasn’tlongbeforemybodygaveinand

Iorgasmed.Lettingoutahowl,mybodyshookasmylegstightened.

“That’sit.Givemeeverythingyouhave.”Hislipsbrushedagainstmine.

He climbed off the bed, bent down, pushed my dress up, slowly took off my

panties, and began exploring me with his mouth, his tongue moving in circles

aroundme.IgaspedasIstruggledtotakeabreath.Ireacheddownandtangledmy

fingers through his hair while thrusting my hips up and down. After a few

moments, he stood up and stripped out of his clothes while staring down at me.

ThelookinhiseyeswasnothingshortofhungerandIcouldtellhewasn’tgoing

tobegentlewithme.

He flipped me over, unzipped my dress, and pulled it off, tossing it over the

bedandontothefloor.Hoveringoverme,histongueslidupmybackashislips

formedtinykissesuptomyshoulders.Inonethrust,hewasdeepinsideme.My

handsgraspedthesheetsandclenchedthemtightashemovedinandoutofmeata

rapid pace. Groans rumbled in his chest as sounds of pleasure escaped my lips.

His thrusts became faster as he sat up and dug his fingers into my ass while he

pounded in and out of me. Another orgasm came and his moans increased as he

halted, pushing deep inside me and straining to release everything he had inside

him.

Hecollapsed,hismuscularchestrestinguponmybackandhisarmswrapped

aroundme.IcouldfeeltherapidbeatofhisheartagainstmeasIclosedmyeyes

andtookitallin.ThesafenessIfeltwasoverwhelmingandIwantedtostaylike

thatforever.Rollingoffme,hestoodupandIturnedonmybackandstaredathim.

Hegrabbedhisclothesfromthefloor,walkedtowardsthedoor,andlookedatme

onelasttimebeforeleavingthebedroom.

ChapterSeventeen

Gabriel

I put on a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt, and went up to the terrace. After

pouringaglassofbourbon,Ileanedagainstthecementrailandstaredoutintothe

New York City night, trying to figure out what I was going to do with her. She

connedrichmen.Sheusedthem,andwhenshewasdone,shewalkedawaywith

beautiful things and a lot of money. Money that she claimed she didn’t have. I

calledbullshitonthatone.ShewasapersonIcouldnevertrust.Ithoughtlongand

hardandfinallycameupwithaplan.Oneshe’dprobablyresistbutdidn’thavea

choice.Nowshewasgoingtobetheonetofindouthowitfelttobeused,andin

theend,she’dwalkawaywithnothing.

Thenextmorning,afterIshoweredandgotreadyfortheoffice,Iheadeddown

tothekitchen.

“Goodmorning,Grace,”Ispoke.

“Goodmorning,Gabriel.”Shesmiled.“Breakfast?”

“Sure.Ihavesometime.”

IwalkedovertotheKeurigmachine,poppedinaK-cup,andheardsomeone

stumbleintothekitchen.

“Morning,”Katespokeasshesatdownattheisland.

“Goodmorning.Coffee?”Iasked.

“Please.”

Assoonasmycoffeewasfinishedbrewing,Ipickedupthecupandsatdown

atthetable.

“Whatareyoudoing?”Kateasked.

“Drinkingmycoffee.Why?”

“YouaskedmeifIwantedsomeandIsaid‘please.’”

“And?JustbecauseIaskedyoudidn’tmeanthatIwasgoingtomakeit.”

Hereyesnarrowedatmeasshegotupandwalkedovertothecoffeemaker.

“WhatamIsupposedtodohereallday?”sheasked.

“Idon’tknow.Figureitout.”

“WhatI’dliketodoispaint,butIdon’thaveanysupplies.”

Iglancedupfrommyphoneandlookedather.

“Youliketopaint?”

“Yes.”

“Fine.MakealistofwhatyouneedandI’llsendsomeonetogetitandhavethe

supplies back here later today. And when I get home tonight, we’re going to sit

downandhavealittlechat.It’stimeyoustartedpayingoffyourdebt.”

“And how am I going to do that?” she asked as she took a seat at the table

acrossfromme.

“You’llfindoutlater.”

“Sincewe’rebothsittinghere,youcantellmenow,”shespoke.

“Isaidwe’lltalklater,”Ifirmlyspoke.“Now,ifyouwantthoseartsupplies,

youbetterstartthatlist.Ihavetoleaveinafewminutes.”

Gracewalkedoverandhandedherapieceofpaperandapen.Ididn’tknow

shelikedtopaint.ButwhatdidIreallyknowaboutheranyway?Shefinishedher

listandhandedittome.Afterlookingitover,Iglancedupather.

“Really?Thisisalotofstuff.”

She shrugged. “You can afford it. Or, I have most of it back at my apartment.

Sendoneofyourminionstogofetchit.”Herbrowraised.

“Wherearetheyinyourapartment?”Iasked.

“Inachestinthecornerofthelivingroom.I’llneedmyeaselalso.”

“Idon’trecallseeinganeaselinyourapartment.”

“That’sbecauseyouweretoobusyransackingmyroomtonoticeanythingelse

aboutmyplace.”

“True.”Thecornersofmymouthcurvedupintoaslysmile.

Ifinishedoffmybreakfastandgotupfromthetable.

“I’mleavingnow.I’llseeyoutonight.”

“I’llbecountingdownthehours,”shesarcasticallyspoke.

Grace let out a light laugh and I narrowed my eye at her as I walked out the

door. On the way to the office, I pulled my phone from my pocket and dialed

Caleb.

“Hello.”

“Whatareyoudoingforlunch?”

“Gee.Idon’tknow.Ihaven’tevenhadbreakfastyet,bro.”

“CanyoumeetmeattheShakeShackatoneo’clock?”

“Sure. Good thing you picked that place because I wasn’t about to go to any

fancyrestaurantwithallthatweirdfood.”

Ichuckled.“WhydoyouthinkIpickedyourfavoriteburgerplace?I’llseeyou

later.”

****

Mymeetingendedattwelveforty-fiveandIhadfifteenminutestogetoverto

theShakeShacktomeetCaleb.

“I’mheadingtolunch,Lu.I’llbebackinacoupleofhours.”

“Enjoy,Mr.Quinn.”Shesmiled.

Carl dropped me off around the corner, and when I made my way to the

restaurant,IsawCalebstandingoutside.

“Hey.”Ismiledaswelightlyhugged.

“What’swiththelunchdate?”heaskedaswesteppedinside.

“IfiguredouthowKateisgoingtopaymeback.”

Ourorderwasup,sowetookittoatableandsatdown.

“Dotell,bigbrother,”Calebspoke.

AsItoldhimmyplan,hesatthereandstaredatmewithanarrowingeye.

“I’mallforthefirstpart,but,bro,I’mnotsosureabouttheoutcome.”

“Why?”Iasked.

“It’salittleharsh,nottomentionthefactthatIdon’tthinkyoucandoit.”

“Itwon’tbeaproblem.”

“Ifyousayso.Listen,Gabriel,Dadwasalwaysaboutteachinguslessons.You

knowthat.Thisconcernsme.You’replayingwithsomeone’slife.”

“Justlikeshe’splayedwithallthoselivesofallthemensherippedoff.You

thinkthat’sokay?”

“No.Idon’t.Butdotwowrongsmakearight?”Hisbrowraised.

“Sherippedmeoffandshe’sgoingtopaymeback.Hopefully,she’lllearnher

lessonandnotdoittoanyoneagain.”

“Youknowwhattheysay:Onceanalcoholic,alwaysanalcoholic.I’mpretty

surethatappliestoconartistsaswell.”

“We’llsee,won’twe?Anyway,what’sgoingonwithyou?”

“IgotacallyesterdayfromAtlanticRecords.TheylovedthedemoIsentthem

andwanttohearmore,sowe’regoingtoflyouttoL.A.nextweek.”

“Good.”Inoddedmyhead.“It’stoobadthingsdidn’tworkoutwithSony.”

Heshrugged.“Everythinghappensforareason,right?”Hesmiledasweboth

finishedourburgersandgotupfromthetable.

“You’ve always been the philosophical one in the family.” I smirked as I

placedmyhandonhisshoulderandwewalkedoutthedoor.

ChapterEighteen

Kate

“It’sabouttime,Carl,”Ispokeashebroughtmyartsuppliesintothehouse.

“Sorry,MissKate,butIhadotherstopstomakeaswell.”

“Canyoudomeafavorandjusttaketheeaseluptotheterrace?”

“Verywell.”Henodded.

“Thanks,Carl.You’readoll.”

It bothered me all day as to what Gabriel wanted to talk about when he got

home.HesaiditwastimeIstartedrepayinghimback.Buthow?Washegoingto

givemeajobathisoffice?Thatwouldn’tbesobad.Atleastitwouldgetmeout

ofthisdamnhouse.

I took the elevator up to the terrace and moved my easel over by the railing

where most of the sun hit and overlooked the city and river. This would be the

perfectplacetopaint.Iwalkedovertothebarareaandtookaglassandfilledit

with water. Moving one of the small tables over by my easel, I set up my paint

supplies,putacanvasup,andbeganpainting.Witheachstrokeofthebrush,Iwas

transportedintoanotherplace.AplacewhereIhadnotroublesorworriesanda

placewhereIcouldbeme.

A few hours had passed when I heard the elevator doors open and Gabriel’s

voice.

“Howwasyourday?”heasked.

“Fine,”IspokeasIcontinuedpainting.

HewalkedovertowhereIwasandstoodbehindme.

“You’repaintingthesea?”heasked.

“Theseaisonlypartofit.”

“It’sbeautiful.Youhavegreatartistictalent.”

“Thankyou.Mymotherwasanartist.Mydadtoldmethatshelovedtopaint

andhadaverycreativemind.Shewouldtellstorieswithherportraits.”

“Andwhat’sthisstory?”heasked.

“You’llseeonceit’sfinished.”Asmallsmilecrossedmylips.

“Ibroughthomedinner.Comeandeatandwecandiscusssomethings.”

“I’llbedowninaminute.Ijustwanttofinishthislastpart.”

“Verywell.”Heturnedandwalkedaway.

OnceIfinished,Iplacedmybrushinthewaterandtooktheelevatordownto

the kitchen. When I stepped out, I noticed Gabriel wasn’t there, so I went to the

diningroomwherehehadthetablesetandbowlsofpasta,salad,andbreadwere

laidout.

“Igotmeatsauce,plainsauce,andalfredo.Ididn’tknowwhatyouliked.”

“Allarefine.Thanks.”Itookaseatandplacedthenapkinonmylap.

My nerves were getting the best of me in anticipation of what he wanted to

discuss,andIcouldnolongerwait.

“Sotalk,Gabriel,”IspokeasIpickedupmyfork.

Heclearedhisthroatashesethisnapkinonhislap.

“The way you’re going to pay me back is by being my companion for thirty

days.Athousanddollarsanight.”

Iarchedmybrowathim.“Excuseme?”

“Youwillworkoffyourdebtbyhavingsexwithmeeverynight.Youwilldo

as I say and do what I want. You will attend events with me and travel if

necessary.”

“I’mnotafuckingprostitute!”Ideadpanned.

“Really, Kate? You seduce men, have sex with them, get them to fall in love

withyou,andthenyoutakepayment.Ifthatisn’tprostitution,Idon’tknowwhat

is.”

“Yousonofabitch.”Ishookmyhead.

“There’s no need for name calling. If you agree, which you really have no

choice, you will be able to leave the house, with a bodyguard, of course,

wheneveryouplease.Wewillhavedinnereverynighttogetherandthenwewill

gotomyroomandhavesex.Whenwearefinished,youwillgobacktoyourroom

andwe’llseeeachotherinthemorning.Oncethethirtydaysisup,youwillleave

andgobacktoyourapartmentandtoyourlife.”

“Areyouthatlonelyofamanthatyouhavetoresorttothis?”Inarrowedmy

eyeathim.

“I’mnotlonelyatall.Thisactuallyworksoutperfectforme.Noemotions,no

strings,nothing.Andifyoulookatit,it’sperfectforyoutoo.”

“How?”Iasked.

“You’reincapableoffeelings.It’sjustanotherjobforyou.Clearly,youhadno

problems or trouble walking away from all the other men you ripped off and I

won’tbeanydifferent.”

“AndifIdon’tagree?”

“ThenIturnoverallofyouraliasestothepoliceandyougotojail.”

“Ah, Gabriel Quinn, CEO of Quinn Hotels, kidnapper and blackmailer

extraordinaire.”Iheldupmyglassofwine.

Hepickeduphisandhelditupinfrontofhim.

“AndKateHarper,conartistandheartbreakerextraordinaire.”

“Youknownothingaboutme,Gabriel.”

“Iknowenoughand,tobehonest,Idon’twanttoknowanythingelse.Dowe

haveadealordoIcallthepolice?”

I couldn’t believe his proposal. All this man wanted was sex. A thousand

dollars a night sex. If that was what it took to get me out of here, then fine.

Besides, I liked having sex with him. This was my chance to play him, find out

moreofhisweaknesses,andtakeadvantage.Hethoughthewasplayingme,butin

reality,hehadjusttakenthegametoawholenewlevel.

“Igettoleavethehouse?”Iasked.

“Yes.Youcangowhereveryouwant,butyouwillbeguarded.”

Irolledmyeyes.

“AndyousaidIwouldhavetodoanythingyouwantinthebedroom?”

“Yes.AnythingIwant.Youcannotsayno.”

Igulped.

“Idon’tdoanalsex.Thatrightthereisoutofthequestion.So,ifyouhavethe

thoughtinthatfuckeduplittleheadofyours,takeitawaynow.”

“If I’m paying a thousand dollars a night, you will do as I please, including

analsex.”

Iswallowedhard.Hewouldn’tdoanal.Hedidn’tseemlikethattypeofguy.

Butthenagain,hedidkeepapairofhandcuffsinhisbedroom.I’dcallhisbluff.

“Fine.Wehaveadeal.”Iheldoutmyhand.“ButyoudoknowIgetmyperiod.

Sothenwhat?”

“Wedoitintheshowerwhenthat’sgoingon.”

“Okay.ThirtydaysitisandthenIleave.Canwecountlastnightasdayone?”

“No.Itstartsnow,tonight.Idowanttomakeonethingverycleartoyou.Iam

notliketheothermenyouwerewith.Iwillnotshoweryouwithexpensivegifts,

flowers,oranythingelse.”

“Whatifyou’retemptedto?”Ismirked.

“Trustme,Kate.Iwon’tbe.”

“Areyoualwaysthiscold-heartedwiththewomenyou’rewith?”

“Onlytheoneswhothinkit’sokaytostealfromme.”Hecockedhishead.

“WhataboutGreta?”

“Howdoyouknowabouther?”

“Gracetoldmetheotherdayyoujustendedarelationshipwithher.Why?”

“That’snoneofyourbusiness.”

“WereyoutogetherwhenwefuckedatJFK?”

“No.Iwasn’t.Idon’tcheatonthewomenI’mwith.”

I let out a light laugh. “Sure you don’t. You’re a typical rich alpha male.

Temptationisyourweakestpoint.”

“Not mine. When I’m with someone, I’m committed. I never once cheated on

Greta.”

MyheartkindofmeltedwhenhesaidthatandIcouldtellhewasn’tlying.He

was faithful and it was a rare quality among men. Especially men of his stature,

butsomethingwasdifferentwithhim.Heseemedcoldandemotionless.Moreso

nowthanbefore.

“Doyouhaveanysexylingerie?”heasked.

“Backatmyapartment.Why?”

“BecauseIwantyouwearingiteverynightwhenyouwalkintomyroom.”

“ThenIguesswe’llhavetogotomyplace.”

“No.I’llhavenewthingsdeliveredtomorrow.”

“Ithoughtyouweren’tgoingtolavishmewithgifts?”Iraisedmybrow.

“They’renotforyou,sweetheart.They’reformetoenjoy.”

“Seriously,Gabriel.Whatkindoffreakareyou?”

“How does me wanting to view you in sexy lingerie make me a freak? And

don’t even go there, Kate. I’m sure you’ve done some freaky shit with the men

you’vebeenwith.”

Inreality,itwasalwaysjustplainsex,veryvanilla,whichwasfinewithme.

When the men would ask to try something different, I always told them I wasn’t

comfortable,sotheywoulddropitandresumewiththenormalplainandboring

sex.PerhapsitwasbecauseIwasneverattractedtoanyofthemandIalwayshad

the upper hand. But with Gabriel, things were different. There was an enormous

attractiontohim,andthistime,Iwasn’tincontrol.Overall,hisneedforkinkiness

turnedmeon.

“DoIatleastgettopickoutthelingerie?”Iasked.

“No.LikeIsaid,I’llhavesomethingsdeliveredtomorrow.”

“Andwhatabouttonight?”

“Fortonight,yournakedbodywilldojustfine.Infact,”helookedatthetime

on his phone, “I want you naked and walking into my bedroom at nine p.m.

Understand?”hespokewithseriousness.

“Yes,master.Anythingyousay.”

Hehelduphisfinger.“Don’tcallmethat.”

Thecornersofmymouthcurvedupintoaslightsmile.

“Whatdoyouwantmetocallyou?Daddy?”

“Absolutelynot.Whatiswrongwithyou?”

Me? He wanted to know what was wrong with me? He was the one putting

thisplanofdemandintomotion.

“Fine.Iunderstand,Gabriel.”

“That’sbetter.Youhavethirtyminutestoprepyourself.”

Igotupfrommyseatandheadedtomyroom.Hisplanwasn’tsobad.Sexwith

himandthefreedomtoleavethehousewheneverIwantedtowasaprettygood

deal,nottomentionthetravelingpart.TheonethingIdidbelievehewastrueto

hiswordaboutwasturningmeovertothepolice.Hehadenoughonmetoputme

awayforalongtimeandthatwasn’tsomethingIwasabouttorisk.

ChapterNineteen

Kate

I looked at the clock on my nightstand. It was eight fifty-nine. It was time to

makemygrandentrance.Islippedoffmyrobeandwalkedmynakedbodydown

tohisbedroom.IhadneverbeenintherebeforeandI’dneverseenitbecausehe

keptthedoorlockedwhenhewasgone.

WhenIlightlyknockedonthedoor,hetoldmetocomein.Placingmyhandon

the handle, I opened it and stood in the doorway with my arm resting on the

doorframeandmyhippushedouttotheside.

“Comein,”hespokeashesatontheedgeofthebedinnothingbutapairof

pajamabottomswithhisbarefeetfirmlyplantedonthefloor.

I seductively walked towards him and stared into his hungry eyes. When I

reachedthebed,heplantedhishandsfirmlyonmyhipsandhistonguestrokedmy

belly.Instantly,thefiredownbelowerupted,sendingatinglingsensationthrough

mybodythatmademetremble.Heslidhistonguedowntomyclit,givingitafew

strokes before circling my slick opening. My fingers raked through his hair as I

closedmyeyesandpleasurablemoansescapedmylips.Hismouthdevouredme

while he dipped a finger inside, heightening my ecstasy. My breathing became

rapid as well as my heart rate and a rush of intoxicating warmth rushed through

me.

Hestoodupandslowlycircledaroundme,hislipsbarelytouchingmyneck,

until he was fully behind me. He took my hand and placed it on his hard cock,

movingmyhandupanddownthefabricofhispants.Itiltedmyheadbackandhis

tongueexploredmyneck.

“It’s time you got down on your knees and wrapped that beautiful mouth of

yoursaroundmyhardcock,”hewhisperedseductivelyinmyear.

Turning around, I brushed my lips against his before kneeling in front of him.

Grabbingthesidesofhiswaistband,Isliddownhispajamabottomsandreleased

hiscock,whichstoodtallandproud.Iwantedthistobeamomenthe’dremember

forever, so I started by planting tiny kisses along his abdomen and up and down

his sexy V-line before making my way down to his manhood. I circled his shaft

lightlywithmytonguewhilehegrippedmyhairandthrewhisheadback,letting

subtlemoansescapehim.Lickingupanddown,Istaredupathimasoureyesmet

andIcouldfeelhimtremble.MylipswrappedaroundhimasIheldthebaseof

hiscockwithmyhand,slowlymovingitupanddownwhileIdevouredhim.His

moansheightenedashisgriponmyheadtightenedandhethrusthishipsbackand

forth.Bringingmyotherhanduptohisballs,Ilightlybrushedmyfingersacross

them.

“Stop.I’mabouttocomeandIdon’twanttoyet,”hespokewithbatedbreath.

Heliftedmeupandthrewmeonthebed,bringinghislipsdowntomybreasts

andtakingmyhardenedpeaksinhismouth.Hegrabbedmylegandhelditupas

he thrust inside me, forcing me to gasp for air. It was hard, deep, and full of

promisestogivemetheultimateorgasm.Hepoundedinandoutofmeatarapid

paceassmallbeadsofsweatformedonhisskin.WhileIplacedmyhandsfirmly

on his chest, he groped my breast with his other hand, giving each one equal

attention. Sounds of gratification emerged from both of us as we fucked like a

coupleofrabbitsandIcame.

He pulled out and flipped me on my side so he could enter me from behind.

Another deep and hurried thrust jolted me, bringing me to the brink of another

orgasm.

“Yes,”heloudlyvoiced.“God,youfeelsogood.Fuck,Kate.”Hehalteddeep

insideme.

Whenhefinished,hepulledoutandwalkedtothebathroom.Afterhereturned,

hehandedmesometissues.

“Youcancleanyourselfupandthengobacktoyourroom.I’llseeyouinthe

morning.”

“Yeah,okay,”Ispokewithahintofdisappointment.

Igotupfromthebedandheadedbacktomyroom,mybodystillreelingfrom

theeffectsofhim.MymindwasinshamblesandIcouldn’tfigureoutwhy.Ifelt

used.LikeIwasnothingmorethanapieceofmeattohim.Ineededtopaint,soI

slippedonmyrobeandheadeduptotheterrace.Thenightwascool,butIdidn’t

mind. Before getting started, I walked over to the bar, poured a glass of white

wine,andtookitovertomyeaselwhileIstoodandstaredatwhatIhadpainted

earlierintheday.Pickingupmybrush,Icontinuedmyjourney.

****

Gabriel

“Damnit,”IspokeasIpacedaroundthebedroom.

Tryingtofeelnothingforheratallwasnoteasy.Sexwasmindblowing,and

the way she had those beautiful lips wrapped around my cock, amazing. Shit. It

hadtobethisway.Nofeelingsandnoemotions.Ineededtoremembershestole

my thirty-thousand-dollar watch right off my wrist without any guilt and she

connedmanymen.Watchingherorgasmwassatisfying.Thelookonherfaceand

thewayshelightlybitdownonherbottomlipmadeithardnottowanttogiveher

ahundredmore.

I pulled on my pajama pants and went downstairs to my office to do some

work. I wasn’t tired and I needed a drink. After pouring myself a bourbon, I sat

downatmycomputerandlookedoversomeemails.Acoupleofhourshadpassed

andIwasfinallytired,soIheadedupstairs.Iwonderedifshewassleeping,soI

wentuptothefifthfloortocheckonher.Thedoorwasopen,herlightwason,but

shewasn’tinthere,soIwentuptotheterrace.

“Can’tsleep?”IaskedasIfoundherstandingathereasel.

“I’m not really tired and I wanted to paint,” she spoke as she stared at the

canvasandbrushedafewstrokes.

Iwalkedovertoherandwasamazedathowmuchshe’daddedsincebefore

dinner.

“Amermaid?”IaskedasIstaredatthepainting.

“Yes.Don’tyoulikemermaids?”

“I don’t know. I never really thought about them. Is your painting telling a

story?”

“Yeah.Itsureis.”

Her painting intrigued me. A beautiful mermaid with long blonde hair, sitting

on a rock and looking out into the sea that was made up of blues and greens. I

narrowedmyeyeasIstaredatit,wonderingifsomehowthatwasadepictionof

Kate.Asmuchasitintriguedme,italsoconfusedme.

Shesetherbrushinthewaterandgavemeasmallsmile.

“I’mgoingtobed.I’llseeyouinthemorning,”shesoftlyspoke.

“Goodnight,Kate.”

Iheadedbacktomyroomandclimbedintobed.Grabbingmylaptop,Iopened

itandgoogled“Mermaids.”ThedescriptionandsymbolismIfoundvalidatedmy

thoughts.

Along with unrivaled beauty, myth depicts mermaids with heart-stoppingly

luscious voices. ... They are matrons of enchantment, entreating sailors with

beguiling beauty, grace, and mesmerizing melodies. Seductive and charming,

allthoseincontactwithmermaidsaresubjecttotheirpersuasion.

The traits she possessed were the same. As beautiful as her painting was, it

wasalsohaunting.Italmostfeltasifshepainteditoutofpain.Bytheendofthirty

days,Iwouldknoweverythingabouther.Iclosedmyeyesandtriedtogetsome

sleep,butIhadafeelingsleepwasn’tgoingtobemyfriendtonight.

ChapterTwenty

Kate

IgavemybodyalongstretchasIopenedmyeyesandlookedaroundtheroom.

SinceIwasnowofficiallyallowedtogooutofthehouse,Iwouldtakeadvantage

of it today. I’d be gone the whole day. Doing what? Who the hell knew. I

wondered which one of Gabriel’s minions would get the luxury of guarding me.

Would it be the cute buff guy with the short blond hair and the green eyes? Or

woulditbethebaldguythatstoodsixfootfourwholookedlikehehatedlife?He

nevercrackedasmileandwasalwayssoserious.

Putting on my robe, I headed downstairs and went into the kitchen for some

coffee. The closer I got, the more the aroma of something sweet captured my

attention.

“Goodmorning,Grace.”Ismiled.“Whatisthatwonderfulsmell?”

“Good morning, Kate. I’m making strawberry-stuffed cream cheese crepes.

Wouldyoulikesome?They’reGabriel’sfavorite.”

“Iwouldlovesome.Thankyou.”

IwashappytodaybecauseIfeltasifIhadsomesortofnormalcybackinmy

life. I could come and go as I pleased and had to have sex with a hot and sexy

millionaire.Thatwasasnormalaslifecouldgetforme.Iwouldusemyfreedom

toexplorenewoptionsandmakeaplanforwhenthethirtydayswereup.Iwould

be kind, sweet, and over pleasing, just like I was with the others. I’d keep my

feelingsandemotionsoutofit.Ihadto.Iwasn’tagoodpersonanddidn’tdeserve

tohavesomeoneasgoodasGabriel.Notthathewouldwanttosettledownwith

someonelikeme.Ihadtoomuchbaggage,toomuchdishonesty,andtoomuchofa

screweduplifeforthelikesofhim.

“Are those strawberry crepes I smell?” Gabriel spoke as he walked into the

kitchen.

“Yes,andthey’reready.Sogositdown,”Gracereplied.

“Goodmorning.”IsmiledasIwalkedupandgavehimakissonthecheek.

“Goodmorning.”Henarrowedhiseyeatmewithsuspicion.

Itookmycoffeetothetableandsatdown.Hefollowed,takingtheseatacross

fromme.

“Youseemtobeinararemoodthismorning,”hespoke.

“Maybe it had something to do with the events that occurred last night.” I

smirked.

Grace looked at me and then over at Gabriel as she set down our crepes in

frontofus.Hedidn’treplytomycommentandbeganeatinghisbreakfast.

“So, who’s my babysitter today? Blond buff guy or tall bald guy who hates

life?”

“Huh?”Gabrielasked.

“Ineedtogoouttoday,sowhichoneofyourminionsistaggingalong?”

“Andwheredoyouneedtogo?”

“Out. I need to get out of this house. Walk the streets of Time Square, go to

Central Park; hell, I’d even go sit in a café all day just to get out of here for a

while.”

“Edmondwillbeescortingyou.”

“And,”Ileanedoverclosertohim,“whichoneishe?”

“Accordingtoyou,‘tallbaldguywhohateslife.’”

I rolled my eyes. I had hoped he would say ‘blond buff guy.’ He seemed

friendlierthanEdmond.

“I have something for you,” Gabriel spoke as he got up from the table and

walkedoutofthekitchen.

Afewmomentslater,hereturnedandsetaniPhonedowninfrontofme.

“IthoughtyoushouldhavethisincaseIneedtogetholdofyouoryoume.”

“Thankyou.ButwhataboutthephoneIalreadyhave?”

“Thisoneisspecial.Theonlynumberyoucandialismine.”Hesmirked.

“Well, aren’t you just a gem, wanting to keep me all to yourself.” I smirked

back.

“Idon’ttrustyou,Kate.Youknowthat.You’reonlygoingtohaveituntilour

timeisup.Afterthat,youcanhaveyourotherphoneback.”

“Idon’tneeditanyway.ItwasonlyforSamuel.Ialwaysgetridofmyphones

aftermyjobisdone.”

Hiseyebrowraisedindismay.

“Isee.”

“Infact,it’sfinethatIcanonlycallyoubecausewhoelsedoIhavetocall?”I

lookedawayfromhimasIpickedupmyphone.

“Yourfather?”

IgavehimasmallsmileasIgotupfrommychair.

“Iwouldlovetocallhim,butIcan’t.”

“Why?”

“Becausehe’sdoingtimeatRikersIsland.”Iwalkedawayanduptomyroom.

AsIwasintheclosetpickingoutanoutfittowear,Iheardalightknockonthe

door.

“Comein.”

“Yourfatherisinprison?”Gabrielasked.

“Yes,”IrepliedasIthumbedthroughmyclothes.

“Whydidn’tyoutellme?”

Ishrugged.“Idon’tknow.MaybeIwastooembarrassed.”

“Sowhatmadeyoutellmenow?”Hetookacoupleofstepscloser.

“Whynot?Imean,we’reinthisso-calledthirty-dayrelationship.Youmightas

wellknowaboutmyfamily.Anyway,don’tyouhavetogettotheoffice?”

Hestoodandstaredatmeforamomentwithaperplexedlookinhiseyes.

“Yeah,Ido.Enjoyyourdayout.I’llseeyoutonight.Maybewe’llgoout.”

“Really?”Ismiled.“Where?”

“CalebandhisbandareplayingattheBowery.Ithoughtmaybewecouldgo

watchhim.”

“I’dlikethat.”

“Okay,I’lllethimknowwe’llbethere.”Hesmiled.“Andbytheway,we’ll

talkmoreaboutyourfatherlater.”

“Gabriel?”

“Yes?”Heturnedandlookedatmebeforewalkingoutthedoor.

“IneedmypurseandmywalletbackifI’mgoingout.”

“I’llgogetitandleaveitbythefrontdoor.”

“Thanks.”

Afterslippingonapairofskinnyjeansandanoversizedgreysweater,Iputon

myshoesandwalkedoutthefrontdoor.Instantly,Edmondsteppedinfrontofme

withasternlookinhiseyesandhisarmscrossed.

“Relax,bigboy.I’msureGabrieltoldyouthatyou’llbetaggingalongwithme

today.”Ismiled.

“Hedid.”

“Great.Thenwhyareyoustandingtherelikeyou’rereadytowrestlemetothe

ground?Let’sgo.”

****

Gabriel

AsIsatbehindmydesk,Icouldn’thelpbutthinkaboutKate’sfather.Iknew

something was up by the way she was vague about him. Rikers, eh? The apple

suredidn’tfallfarfromthetree,didit?Iwonderedwhatshewasdoingtoday.I

toldEdmondtokeepaverycloseeyeonheratalltimesandonhisbelongings.

Pickingupmyphone,IdialedCaleb.

“What’sup,Gabriel?”heanswered.

“Whattimeareyouplayingtonight?”

“We hit the stage at nine o’clock,” he replied. “Why? Are you thinking about

coming?”

“Yes.ItoldKatethatwe’dcomewatchyouplay.”

“Awesome.Comearoundeightandwe’llhaveacoupleofdrinksfirst.Bythe

way,Itakeitsheagreedtoyourplan?”

“Shedidbecausesheknewshedidn’thaveachoice.Whichremindsme,Ineed

togo.Ihavesomeshoppingtodo.I’llseeyoulater,bro.”

Iendedthecall,gotupfrommydesk,andtoldLuthatI’dbebackinanhour.

Climbingintothelimo,IhadCarldrivemetoVictoria’sSecretwhereIpurchased

somelingerieandmatchingpanties.

“Carl,afteryoudropmeattheoffice,takethisbagbacktomyhouseandhand

ittoGrace.TellhertoputitonKate’sbed.”

“Verywell,sir.”Henodded.

“Youknowwhat?Justdropmeoffatthedelidownthestreetfrommybuilding.

I’mgoingtograbasandwichandI’llwalktotheoffice.”

Aftergrabbingasandwichtogo,IwaswalkingdownthestreetwhenIraninto

SamuelColdwater.

“Gabriel.”Hesmiledaswebothstoppedonthesidewalk.

“Hello,Samuel.Onyourwaytolunch?”

“I am. Care to join me? I was just heading down to the deli for a quick

sandwich.Ihaveback-to-backmeetingsthisafternoon.”

Iheldupmybag.“Justcamefromthere,butI’lljoinyou.”

IfiguredthiswastheperfectchancetofindoutabouthowhefeltaboutKate,

or in his case, Amy disappearing. I wanted to know if he was looking for her. I

grabbedusasmalltablewhilehewentandorderedasandwich.

“How’severythinggoing?”Iaskedhimashetookaseatacrossfromme.

“Business-wise,thingsaregood.”

Inarrowedmyeyeathim.“Notsomuchpersonal-wise?Yourgalawasahuge

success and you have a beautiful girlfriend. Life should be grand, Samuel.” I

smirked.

“I’mnotseeingAmyanymore,Gabriel.”

“What?Why?Thetwoofyouseemedsohappy.”

“ShelefttownthedayafterthegalaandreturnedtheringIhadgivenher.”

“I’msorry.Ihadnoidea.”

“Howwouldyou?”Hegaveasmallsmile.

“Didshegiveyouareasonastowhysheleft?”

“Shesaidsheneededtogoawaytoworkonsomeissuesshehadwithherself

and she needed to be alone. If only she would have talked to me, I could have

helped.Iwasinlovewithher,”hespokewithasadnessinhisvoice.

Ifeltbadfortheman.

“Andyouhavenoclueastowhereshewent?”

“No.IhadaprivateinvestigatortrytotrackherdownafterIkeptcallingher

cellphone and it went straight to voicemail, but no luck. He’s convinced she

wasn’twhoshesaidshewas.”

“Doyoubelievethat?”Iasked.

“Ido.ThemoreIthoughtaboutit,themorethingsdidn’taddup.Ibelievethis

womanwasouttoconmesomehow.”

“Ifshewas,shewouldn’thavegivenyoubackthering,”Ispoke.

“Isupposethat’strue.”

“Unfortunately,shewasjustamessed-upwomanwithalotofissues.Shedid

youafavorbyleaving.”

“Maybe you’re right, Gabriel. Thank you, my friend. And you’re right, she

wouldn’thavereturnedthering.”

“You’re welcome.” I smiled. “I need to get back to the office. It was good

seeingyou.”

ChapterTwenty-One

Kate

IspenthalfthedayinCentralPark,walkingaroundandtakinginthebeautyof

thespringscenery.Itfeltgoodtogetoutofthathouseanditgavemetimetothink

aboutwhatIwasgoingtodooncemythirtydayswereup.Myleasefortheentire

yearwasalreadypaidforandmydadwashere,somovingwasn’tanoptionjust

yet.Plus,IneededaplaceforhimtocometowhenIgothimoutofprison.Samuel

ColdwaterwasgoingtohelpwiththatuntilGabrielsteppedinandruineditfor

me.Hewasgoingtobemylastcon.Theconthatwouldhelpgetmyfatheroutof

prisonandhomewithmewherehebelonged.

“Is there anywhere else you want to go before I take you home?” Edmond

askedinaseriousandmonotonevoice.

“Starbuckswouldbenice.”

“Fine.”

Rollingmyeyes,Ilaidmyheadbackagainsttheseatandtookinadeepbreath.

ThethoughtofgoingtoseeCalebandhisbandplaytonightthrilledme.Theless

timeIspentcoopedupinthathouse,thebetter.Edmondparkedaroundthecorner

fromStarbucksandwebothclimbedoutandheadeddownthestreet,himwalking

behindme.Somethinghe’ddoneallday.

“Youcanwalknexttome.IpromiseIwon’tbite,”IspokeasIturnedmyhead

andlookedathim.

His eye narrowed as he stared straight ahead. We stepped into Starbucks and

waitedinline.

“Coffee’sonmetoday.”Ismiledathim.“Whatwouldyoulike?”

“Nothing.”Hestoodtallwithhishandsfoldedinfrontofhim.

“Ohcomeon,Ed.Lightenupandhaveacoffeewithme.”Ishoulderbumped

him.

“I’mfine,MissHarper.”Heshotmeadirtylook.

Itwasmyturntoorderandthebaristagavemeacheerfulgreeting.

“Twograndecaramelmacchiatoswithnon-fatmilk,please.”

“Nameforthedrinks,please,”thebaristaspoke.

“KateandEdmond.”Ismiled.

HearingaheavysighescapeEdmond’slips,Iturnedtohimandspoke,“You’ll

loveit.Trustme.”Ilightlyhithisarmwiththebackofmyhand.Assoonasour

coffeeswereready,IgrabbedbothcupsfromthecounterandhandedEdmondhis.

“Thankyou,”hespokeasheclearedhisthroat.

Asmallsmilecrossedmylips.“You’rewelcome.Nowlet’sgohome.”

Edmondpulleduptothecurbofthetownhouse,climbedout,andstoodonthe

sidewalk,waitingformetogetoutofthecar.Isatthere,staringstraightaheadasI

waited for him to open the door. His face twisted as his eyes narrowed at me

through the window. Finally, he placed his hand on the handle and opened the

door.

“Isthereaproblem?”heaskedwithirritation.

“No.Iwasjustwaitingforyoutobeagentlemanandopenthedoorforme.”I

archedmybrow.

HetookinasharpbreathashefollowedbehindmeupthestepsandIwalked

into the house. When I reached my bedroom, I noticed a Victoria’s Secret bag

sittingonthebed.Walkingovertoit,Iremovedthetissuepaperand,onebyone,I

pulled out multiple pieces of pretty lingerie and matching panties. Gabriel had

sexytaste,butIwasn’tsurprisedbywhatagodhewasinthebedroom.

GrabbingmymacchiatofromthenightstandwhereIhadsetitdown,Iwalked

downstairs to the kitchen to grab a small snack. As I passed the living room, I

heard sobs coming from it. Stopping, I saw Grace sitting on the couch next to a

womanwhowascryinghereyesout.

“Umm,hello?”Iwalkedtowardsthem.

Gracelightlyshookherheadatmeashereyeswidened.Itwasasifshewas

tellingmenottosayanything.

“Whoareyou?”thewomannexttoGraceaskedinasnottytone.

“Kate.KateHarper.Andyoumaybe?”Iarchedmybrowather.

“GretaStevens.”Shesniffled.

Holyshit.Itwastheex-girlfriend.Whatthehellwasshedoinghere?

“GretajuststoppedbytospeaktoGabriel,”Gracespoke.

Thiscouldn’thaveworkedoutbetterifIhadplanneditmyself.Sittingdown

onthecouch,Ihookedmyarmaroundher.

“Whatareallthetearsfor?”Isoftlyasked.

“Abrokenheart.”Shedabbedhereyeswithatissue.

“I’vegotthis,Grace.”Iwinked.

Hereyenarrowedatmeforafewmomentsbeforeshegotupandlefttheroom.

“Areyouhisnewgirlfriend?”shescowled.

“Whosegirlfriend?”Iplayeddumb.

“Gabriel’s.”

“Ohno.”Ilaughed.“I’mGabriel’scousin.Hewaskindenoughtoletmestay

hereuntilmyapartmentrenovationsarecomplete.IjustmovedherefromTexas.”

“HenevermentionedhehadacousinnamedKate.”Sheblewhernose.

“Well,maybethat’sbecausehe’sanasshole.”Ismiled.

“Butyoujustsaidhewaskind.”

“Yes.Toletmestayhere,butoverall,he’sanasshole.Butyoualreadyknow

thatsinceyou’reherecryingonhiscouch.Whatdidhedotoyou?”Igavehera

lighthugtoplayonhersympathy.

“Outoftheclearblue,hebrokeupwithme.Andtheworstpart,”shelookedat

mewithmascara-stainedeyes,“hediditoverthephonewhilehewasinSeattle.I

justcan’tseemtogetoverhim.”

“I’mnotsurprised.”Ishookmyhead.“Howlongwereyoudating?”

“Sixmonths.Hewasthemanofmydreamsandhedidnothingbutcrushthem.”

Shelaidherheadonmyshoulder.

“Ugh.I’msosorry.Didhesaywhyhebrokethingsoff?”

“He said he wasn’t happy and that I couldn’t understand that his career came

first.Hewasalwaysworking.AllIwantedwastospendtimewithhim.Wasthat

somuchtoask?”Shelookedupatme.

“No,sweetie.Notatall.”

“ThenhetoldmethatIwasawhinylittlechildandIonlycaredaboutwhatI

wanted.”

“Whatajerk.”

“You know what the sad part is?” She lifted her head and blew her nose. “I

would take him back in a second. Even though he shattered my heart into tiny

pieces,Istilllovehim.”

Thisgirlhadsomeseriousself-esteemissues.

“Doyoureallylovehim?”Iasked.

“Of course I do. Why do you think I’m here? I was hoping to see him and

maybewecouldtalk.”

“Soyouweregoingtobeghimtogiveyouasecondchance?”

Sheswallowedhard.“Yes.”

IshookmyheadasIgotupfromthecouchandpacedaroundtheroom.

“Greta, let me ask you something. Have you ever been with a wealthy man

beforeGabriel?”

“No.”

“So when the two of you got together, you thought it was amazing that a man

likehimwouldfallforagirllikeyou?”

Shelookedatmewithhersadpuppybrowneyes.“Howdareyou.”

“Thatwasn’taninsult,darling.WhatI’mtryingtosayisthatyouneverthought

inamillionyearsthatawealthyandsexymanwouldfallforyou.AmIcorrect?”

“Iguess.”

“WhattypeofmendidyoudatebeforeGabriel?”

She shrugged. “Just typical guys. There was a construction worker, a

paramedic,andastoremanager.”

“So just ordinary guys. Probably cute, but not overly hot. Made an average

salary.Perhapsenoughtobuyyouasmallhouseinthesuburbswithacutelittle

whitepicketfence.Guyswhoworkedninetofiveandcouldspendallthetimein

theworldwithyou?Thetypeofmenyouonlyfeltyoudeserved?Feelfreetostop

meifI’mwrong.”

“Sofar,you’reright.”Shenodded.

“ThenalongcameCousinGabriel.Gorgeous,sexy,andrich.Hemadeyoufeel

like a million dollars when you only felt like you were worth a hundred. The

thoughtthatamanlikehimcouldfallforyouwasintoxicating.Finally,amanyou

couldrubintoyourfamilyandfriend’sfaces,toshowthemthatGretaStevenswas

someonespecialandthatamanlikeGabrielwantedher.”

“Whatthehellisgoingonhere?”Gabrielsnappedashewalkedintotheroom.

“Greta,whatareyoudoinghere?”

Iputmyhanduptostophimfromtalking.

“It’sclearthatyou’vebrokenthispoorgirl’sheartwithyourball-lesswayof

breaking up with her. Over the phone, Gabriel? Really?” I narrowed my eye at

him.

“Thisisnoneofyourbusiness,Kate.Goupstairs!”

“Don’tyoudaretalktoyourcousinthatway!”Gretasnappedasshestoodup

fromthecouch.

“Mywhat?”HeshotmealookandIgavehimasmirk.

WalkingovertoGreta,Itookholdofbothherhands.

“Listentome.Youdeservesomuchbetterthanhim.Youwereinlovewiththe

fantasy,Greta.ItwasneverreallyaboutGabriel.”

“Itwasn’t?”

“No,sweetie.Nomatterhowpoorlyhetreatedyou,youjustwantedtoholdon

to that fantasy. You deserve someone who makes you a priority in their life.

Someone who is capable of giving you all the love you deserve. Who puts you

first before anything else. Gabriel is incapable of any of that and you know it.

He’sgreedyandmoneyisallhecaresabout.Whydoyouthinkhe’sstillsingle?

Moneywillalwaysbehisnumberoneloveandanyoneelsewouldalwayscome

second.Orhell,maybeeventhird.Hehasaheartofstone.ButIknowdeepdown

youalreadyknewthat.Doyouthinkthat’ssomethingyoudeserve?”

“No.”Shelightlyshookherhead.

“Ofcourseyoudon’t.FromwhatIcansee,you’reawonderfulwomanwithso

muchgoingforyou.Youdon’tneedamanlikehim.Hecan’tbetrusted,especially

wherewomenareconcerned.Hehasawanderingeye,youknow.”

“Okay.That’senough!”heshouted.

“I know he does. I’ve seen it. The way he looked at other women when we

weretogether.”

“So,eventhoughyouwereflyinghighwiththefantasy,hewasslowlymaking

youfeelinadequate?”

“Yes.Asamatteroffact,hewas.”

“You’restrong,Greta.Nowgooutintothatworldandshowithowstrongyou

reallyareandhownomanwillevermakeyoufeellikethatagain.”

“You’re right.” Her eyes diverted to him. “I never loved you, Gabriel. You

werenothingbutafantasytome.You,Mr.GabrielQuinn,aremeanandyou’rea

man who isn’t capable of truly loving anyone but yourself. I deserve better than

that.Goodluckwiththerestofyourlife.”Shegrabbedherpursefromthecouch

andwalkedpasthim.“Ipitythenextwomanwhofallsforyourdumbass.”

Isnickeredassheleft.

“Whatthefuckwasallthatabout?”hespokeangrilythroughgrittedteeth.

“Relax.Youshouldbethankingme.Shecameheretobegyoutotakeherback.

Didyoureallywanttodealwithallthatnonsense?”

“Whythefuckwouldshedothat?”

“Because, you idiot, she’s obviously still in love with you. It’s beyond me

why.”

“Shejustsaidshewasn’t.”

“BecauseIconvincedhershewasn’t.”Thecornersofmymouthcurvedupinto

acunningsmile.

“Andallthatshityousaidaboutmeisnottrue!”

“That has yet to be determined, Mr. Quinn.” I winked. “It doesn’t matter

anyway. She’s out of your life for good. Now if you’ll excuse me, I was on my

waytothekitchentograbasnack,”IspokeasIwalkedaway.

I went into the kitchen, and when I opened the refrigerator, I heard Gabriel’s

voicebehindme.

“Mycousin?Really?”

“Didyouwantmetotellherthatyoukidnappedmeandareholdingmehostage

hereasyoursexslaveforthenextthirtydays?”

“Ididnotkidnapyou.Youcamehereonyourownfreewill.”

“Youtrickedme.”Ipointedathim.“Isn’titfunnyhowweallhavealittlebitof

coninus?”Iarchedmybrow.

Hetookinasharpbreathandplacedhishandsinhispockets.

ChapterTwenty-Two

Gabriel

IhadnowordsforwhatIhadjustwitnessedbetweenGretaandKate.

“Youcanthankmelaterinbed.”Shelickedherlipsasshewalkedpastme.

Mycocktwitchedsomethingfierceanditshouldn’thave.Gracewalkedinto

thekitchenandlookedatme.

“I’malldonefortheday,Gabriel.”

“Thankyou,Grace.I’llseeyoutomorrow.”

“Ihatetoadmitit,butKatesureissomethingelse.Don’tbetoohardonher

whereGretaisconcerned.Shecameheretellingmethatshecouldn’tlivewithout

youandifyoudidn’ttakeherback,shewasafraidthatshewouldhurtherself.I

triedtalkingtoherandtogetheroutofherebeforeyougothome,butnothingwas

working.Thenshestartedwithherdamncrying,andthat’swhenKatewalkedin.

Shehasawaywithwords,Gabriel.Youcan’tdenythat.”Shesmiled.

“Shemanipulatespeople,Grace.”

Sheshrugged.“Well,inthiscase,itwasagoodthing.”

IsighedasIwentuptomyroomtochangefordinner.Pullingmyphonefrom

mypocket,IsentatextmessagetoKate.

“Weareleavingfordinnerinapproximatelytwentyminutes.Beready.Iwant

toeatbeforeweheadtotheBoweryRoom.”

“Givemethirty.Ifyoucan’tdothat,thenIwillhavetomeetyouatthe

restaurant.”

“Isaidtwentyorforgetit.Wearen’tgoingout.”

“AndIsaidthirty.DoyoureallywanttohavetoexplaintoCalebthatwe

couldn’tcomeseehisbandplayovertenminutes?”

Iclenchedmyfistandtookinadeepbreath.Throwingmyphoneonthebed,I

tookaquickshowerandchangedmyclothes.Iwentdownstairsandpoureda

glassofbourbonwhileIwaitedforMissSmartyPantstocomedown.Lookingat

mywatch,Isawthatshehadfiveminutesleft.

“Don’tworry.I’mfiveminutesearly.”Shesmiledasshewalkeddownthe

stairs.

Myeyesrakedoverherfromheadtotoeasshetookmybreathaway.Shewore

ahigh-waistedpleatedshortblackskirtwitharoyalbluetopthatsatoffboth

shoulders.Tallblackbootsthatcameoverherkneegracedherlongleanlegs,and

thewayshehadherhairpinnedupwithafewstrandsofcurlshangingdown

startedtogivemeanerection.

“Well?”Shedidaspinassheheldoutherhands.“AmIdressedappropriately

fortheevening?”

Asmilecrossedmylips.“Youmostdefinitelyare.Youlookbeautiful.”

“Thankyou,Gabriel.Youlookquitehandsomeyourself.”Shegrinned.

Asweweresittinginthelimo,onourwaytotherestaurant,Iplacedmyhand

onKate’s.

“I’msorryaboutearlierwithGreta.Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome.”Shesmiled.“I’mstilltryingtofigureoutwhatyousawin

her.”

“Tobehonest,Idon’treallyknow.Ithoughtshewasniceandsweetatfirst.

Butthenastherelationshipgrew,shedemandedmoreofmytime.Weekends

weren’tgoodenough.Shewantedustoseeeachothereverydayandshewould

crynon-stop.IfIsentherflowersforaspecialoccasion,shewouldwhinethat

theyweren’ttherightcolor.Shewouldblowupmyphonealldaylongandaskme

whatIwasdoingandthenfacetimemetomakesurewhatIsaidwastrue.She

naggedallthetime.ItookheronabusinesstripwithmetoFloridaandtheonly

thingshewantedtodowaslieonthebeach.Andseriously,that’sallshedidthe

wholeweekwewerethere.Shedidn’twanttosightseeorevenshop.Iwasgoing

torentaboatforadayandsheclaimedshegotseasick,sothatwasoutofthe

question.”

“Shesoundscomplicated.”

“Shewas.SheevenhadhermothercalltotellmewhatashittyboyfriendIwas

andthatamaninmypositionshouldtreatherlikeaqueen.”

“Wow.Really?”Herbrowraised.

“Itjustwasn’tagoodthing.”

“Thenwhydidyoustaywithherforsixmonths?”

“Iwasinthemiddleofopeninganewhotelandthereweretonsofproblems.It

waseasierjusttostaywithherandkeepblowingheroffuntilthehotelwas

opened.Then,whenIwasinSeattle,sheaccusedmeofcheatingonherandshe

calledme,cryinghereyesouteverysingleday.Icouldn’ttakeitanymore,soI

endeditoverthephone.Ididn’twanttodealwithherwhenIgotback.”

“Shesoundslikeapsycho.”

Isighed.“Sheprettymuchwas.Thethingwomendon’tunderstandisthatmy

careerwillalwayscomefirst.”

“Itotallygetthatbecauseminedoestoo.”Shesmirked.

“Veryfunny,Kate.”

CarlpulleduptoTavernontheGreenandIclimbedoutfirst.Holdingoutmy

hand,sheplacedhersinmineasIhelpedherfromthecar.

“Tellmemoreaboutyourfather,”Ispokeaswewereseatedandsippingon

wine.

“Canwetalkabouthimlater?Ijustwanttoenjoythisevening.”

“Fine.Butwewilldiscussit.”

Afterwefinishedeating,weheadedtotheBoweryRoom.

“Youmadeit.”Calebsmiledaswelightlyhugged.

“Ofcourse.Itoldyouwewould.”

“Hey,Kate.Howareyou?”Calebasked.

“I’mgood.Thanks.I’mreallyexcitedtohearyouguysplay.”

“Thanks.Let’sgrabadrinkbeforeIgoonstage.”

ThethreeofustookaseatatatableinfrontofwhereCalebwasgoingto

perform.Theplacewasgettingcrowded.Butthatwasnosurprise.FallenAngels

couldalwayspackaroom.

“Wouldyoulikeanothertequila?”IaskedKate.

“Yes,anddon’tforgetthesplashoflime.”Shesmiled.

IheadedtothebarjustasCalebandhisbandstartedtoperform.WhenIgot

backtothetable,Katewasinherseat,movingtothemusic.

“Wow.They’rereallygood!”sheexclaimed.

IsmiledatherasIsetherdrinkdown.ShesatandwatchedthemplaywhileI

satandwatchedher.ShewashavingagoodtimeandIcouldn’twaittogethome

andfuckher.Thethoughtmademycocktwitch.Shedefinitelywasoneofthemost

beautifulwomenIeverlaideyeson.Toobadshewaseverykindofwrong.

“Thankyouallforcomingouttonighttoseeusplay.Itmeansalot,”Caleb

spoketotheaudience.“I’dliketointroduceyoutosomeone.HernameisKate

andshehasthevoiceofanangel.Kate,comeuphereandsingalittlesomething

forus.”

KatewashorrifiedandCalebwouldn’tletitgo.Hejumpeddownfromthe

stageandgrabbedherhand,pullingherupwithhim.Shetriedtotellhimno,but

hewasn’ttakingnoforananswer.Hehandedherhisguitarandshewhispered

somethinginhisear.Turningtothemicrophone,shespoketotheaudience.

“Thisisasongmyfatherusedtosingtome.”

Isatandwatchedher,listeningcarefullytothewordsasshesangthem.The

wayshesangitwashaunting.Icouldfeeltheemotionpourfromher,whichtold

methatsonghadaspecialmeaning.Whenthesongwasover,theaudience

clappedandcheered.Calebgaveherakissonthecheek,shesteppedoffthe

stage,andwhenshesatdown,shefinishedoffherdrinkandaskedforanother.

“Youwerereallygoodupthere,”Ispoke.

“Thanks.I’mgoingtokillyourbrotherfordoingthat.”

ThewaitressbroughtoveranotherroundofdrinksandKatechuggeditasifit

waswater.

“Slowdownthere.”Ismiled.“Thatsongyousang.Yousaidyourfatherusedto

singittoyou?”

“Yeah.”Sheheldupherfingertograbthewaitress’attention.“Heusedtosing

ittomeallthetime.”

“What’sthenameofthesong?”Iasked.

“‘Run’bySnowPatrol.Funnythingisthatsongfitourlifesoperfectly.Itwas

asifitwaswrittenforus.”

ItookasipofmybourbonwhileIcontinuedtostareatherasshesippedher

drinkandwatchedCaleb’sbandonstage.Shedidn’tsaymuchtherestofthe

evening,oronthewayhome,andIcouldtellsomethingwasbotheringher.

“I’mgoingtogoupstairsandchange.Anyspecificlingerieyouwantmeto

weartonight?”sheasked.

“It’syourchoice.I’llmeetyouinmyroomwhenyou’reready.”

Shegavemeasmallsmileaswesteppedontotheelevator.

ChapterTwenty-Three

Kate

Idecidedtoslipintoablackhalterbabydollpiecewiththematchingv-string

panty.Walkingintothebathroom,Itookmyhairdownandranmyfingersthrough

it,lettingitfallovermyshoulders.AsadnessthatI’dbeenholdingbackallnight

pushedthroughallmystrengthandfinallybrokeme.Isatontheedgeofthebed

withmyfaceinmyhands.

“Kate?Areyouokay?”IheardGabrielaskinasoftvoiceashesteppedinto

mybedroom.

Iopenedmyeyesandlookedupathim.

“My dad would always say, ‘It’s okay, Katie. Remember, we’re on an

adventure. Just me and you. Father and daughter. We can conquer the world

togetheranddoanythingwewant.’Excepthisconqueringtheworldleftmealone

amajorityofthetime.Heusedtosay‘Lightup,babygirl.Oneday,we’regoingto

havethelifewealwaysdreamedof.’Whathedidn’tunderstandwasthatIwanted

anormallife,withahouse,andtostayinoneplacewhereIcouldsetdownroots

andmakesomefriends.Wherehehadanormaljobandmadeanhonestliving.”

He walked over to the bed when he saw the tears fall from my eyes and sat

downnexttome.

“Heconnedpeople,didn’the?”Iasked.

Inoddedmyheadandgrabbedatissuefromthenightstand.

“Isthatwhyhe’sinprison?”

“He got involved with some high-powered people. When they found out he

connedthem,theysethimupandmadesurehewenttoprison.TheFBIseizedall

his funds and he lost everything. A couple of days after he was sentenced to

Rikers,amanknockedonthedoorofthehotelroomIwasstayinginandtoldme

thatifIwantedtogetmyfatheroutofprison,allIwouldhavetodoispaythem

doubleofwhathestole.”

“Howmuch?”heasked.

“Tenmilliondollars.”

“Forfucksakes,Kate.”Heshookhishead.

“They said once his debt is paid off, they would make sure he was released

fromprison.”

“Andtheycanjustdothat?”

“Thesepeoplehavefriendsinhighplaces,Gabriel.YouwantedtoknowwhyI

dowhatIdo.That’sthereason.Idon’tlikeit.Infact,Ihateit,butIneedmyfather

outofprison.He’stheonlypersonIhaveinthisworld.”Atearfellfrommyeye.

“Everypieceofjewelry,designerclothes,handbags,andanythingelsethosemen

gavemeofgreatvalue,Isold.AndwhateverItakefromthem,Ipayittowardsmy

father’sdebt.That’sthereasonIdon’thavethirtythousanddollarstogiveyou.”

“Howmuchofthatdebtdidyoualreadypayoff?”

“Fivemilliondollars.SamuelColdwaterwasgoingtobemylastjob.”

“Howcertainareyouthatthesepeoplewouldgetyourfatheroutofprisonafter

youpaidthem?Peoplelikethatneverkeeptheirword.”

“Wesignedacontract.Iagreedtopaytenmilliondollarsandtheyagreedtoget

himoutofprison.”

“Isee.”

Hegotupfromthebedandpacedaroundtheroom.

“Heruinedyourlife,Kate.Youhavetoknowthat.”

“Hedidwhathehadtodotosupportus.HetoldmethatIwastheonlythingin

hislifethathe’ddoneright.Hequitconningafterhemetmymotherandtheygot

married. He sold used cars and they still had trouble making ends meet. Then I

wasborn,shedied,andIwasallhehadleft.Inhismind,hewasdoingwhatwas

bestforusanddoingtheonlythingheknewhow.”

Gabriel sat down on the bed and cupped his hands in his face. There were a

fewmomentsofsilenceandthenhestoodup.

“Getsomerest.Tonightisoff.”

Iquicklygrabbedholdofhishandbeforehehadthechancetowalkaway.

“No.Please.Ineedyou.”

Heturnedandlookedatmeforamomentwithhesitationinhiseyes.Thenhe

gotdownonhiskneesinfrontofmeandbrushedhislipsagainstmine.

****

Gabriel

AfterIfuckedher,Iwalkedoutofthebedroomandheadeddownstairstothe

bar, where I poured myself a bourbon. She was upset and I probably shouldn’t

havesleptwithher,butshewantedit.MaybeIshouldhavestayedwithher,butI

couldn’t.Herstory.Wasittrue?Orwasitallalie?Shewasgoodatwhatshedid

and I couldn’t tell if she was playing me or not, which was infuriating. I threw

backtherestofmybourbonandslammedtheglassdownonthebar.Whatwasshe

up to? Was she telling me that story to make me feel sorry for her? To try and

understand why she did what she did? Was she trying to con me into giving her

money? Perhaps using me to get what she needed to pay off her father’s debt? I

wasn’tbuyingthedebtpart.Shedidwhatshedidbecauseitwasallsheknew.It

washowshegrewup.Sheneverhadanystructure,andshecertainlywasnever

taughtrightfromwrong.

The next morning, I grabbed a cup of coffee to go and headed straight to the

office. I didn’t want to be home when she woke up. I couldn’t even look at her

afterwhatshehadtoldmelastnight.AsItookaseatbehindmydesk,Thaddeus

walkedin.

“IneedyoutolookoverthesecontractsandsignthemfortheChicagoproperty.

Oncethat’sdone,wecanstartconstruction,”hespoke.

“Handthemover.”Iheldoutmyhand.

“Everythingokay?”heaskedashetookaseatacrossfromme.

“Everything’sfine.Why?”Ilookedathim.

“Youseemunusuallytensethismorning.”

“It’snothing.Ijusthadaroughnight.”

“Greta’snotbackinthepicture.Isshe?”heasked.

“No,”IrepliedasIsignedthecontractsandhandedthemover.“Areweallset

forHawaii?IsthereanythingIneedtoknowaboutbeforeIgetthere?”

“No.Everythingissmoothedoutandthegrandopeningisset.”

“Good.Iexpecttheretobenoproblems.”Iarchedmybrow.

“Therewon’tbe.I’lltalktoyoulater.”

As he walked out of my office, I heard him say hello to someone. When I

lookedup,Katewasstandinginthedoorway.

“Whatareyoudoinghere?”

“IwasoutandaboutandIwantedtoseewherethegreatGabrielQuinnspends

mostofhisday.”Shesmiled.“MayIcomein?”

“I’mreallybusyrightnow,Kate.”Ilookedatmywatch.“It’sonlyteno’clock.

Howareyououtandaboutalready?”

“Thiswasmyfirststop.”

“Where’sEdmond?”

“He’sbehindme.I’msorrytohavebotheredyou.I’llseeyoulater.”

Assheturnedawayandbegantoclosethedoor,Ispoke,“Kate.”

Sheturnedandlookedatme.

“We’releavingforHawaiiinacoupleofdays.Makesureyoustartpacking.”

“Andyou’rejusttellingmethisnow?”

“Iwasgoingtotellyoutonight.”

“Andwhat’sinHawaii?”sheasked.

“Thegrandopeningofmynewhotel.”

“Okay.I’llstartpacking.”Sheturnedawayandshutthedoorbehindher.

I picked up a pen and threw it across my desk as I got out of my chair and

pacedaroundtheroom.IhadthisragebuiltupinsidemethatIcouldn’tletgoof.

It wasn’t about the watch anymore. It wasn’t being able to believe a word she

said. I wanted to trust her and I wanted to believe her because these fucking

feelingsthatstirredinsidemewouldn’tstop.

Afteralongday,Iwasfinallyabletoleavetheofficeandheadhome.WhenI

walked through the door, the aroma of something cooking hit me. Following the

scenttothekitchen,IfoundKateatthestove.

“Whatareyoudoing?”IaskedasIsetmybriefcasedown.

“Makingdinnerforus.”

“Where’sGrace?”

“Shewasfinishedandsheleft.IthoughtitwouldbeniceifIcookedtonight.”

Sheturnedherheadandasmallsmilecrossedherlips.

“Ididn’tknowyoucouldcook.”

“Whodoyouthinkdidallthecookingformeandmydad?Ifhehadhisway,

we’dhavepizzaandfastfoodeverynight.”

“Itsmellsgood.Whatareyoumaking?”IaskedasItookaseatattheisland.

“Bruschettachickenwithasaladandhomemaderolls.”

“Didyouteachyourselftocook?”

“Somewhat,andIhadsometeachersalongtheway.Therewasthiswomanmy

dad was with for a short period of time. She was a chef and owned her own

restaurant.Ispentalotoftimeatherhouseandshetaughtmeafewthings.”

“Awomanthatyourfatherconned?”Iasked.

Sheswallowedhard.“Yes.”

Shetookthechickenoutofthepan,arrangeditnicelyonaplatter,andtookit

intothediningroom.Beforetakingaseat,Iwalkedovertothebarandpoureda

glassofbourbonformeandaglassofwhitewineforher.

“Thislooksdelicious.Thankyou.”

“You’rewelcome.”Shetookasipofherwine.

“Whatdidyoudotodaybesidefoodshop?”Iasked.

“ShoppedalittlebitforHawaii.”

“Withwhatmoney?”Myeyenarrowed.

“WhosaidIneededmoney?”Asmirkcrossedherface.

Mybloodstartedtoboilatthethoughtthatshehadstolenthemerchandise.

“Isweartogod,Kate.Ifyou—”

“Relax,Gabriel.Iwaskidding.Idohavesomemoneyinmybankaccount.And

beforeyouaskhowmuch,it’snotthirtythousanddollars.Besides,Idon’tshoplift.

IneverhaveandIneverwill.”

Ireachedacrossthetableandgrabbedthesaladbowl.AsIwasplacingsome

saladonmyplate,shethrewarollatme,hittingmesquareintheface.

“Whatthefuck?!”Iglaredather.

“Iwanttoknowwhyyouhaveanattitudewithme.Inoticeditthismorningat

youroffice.”

“Idon’t.Nowdropitandfinisheating,”Isternlyspoke.

“You do and I want to know why. What did I do to make you so angry? I

haven’t got a clue, unless you’re still holding a grudge about your watch. But I

thoughtwesettledthat.Isn’tthatwhyI’mhere?I’vedoneeverythingyouaskedof

mesofar.Sothereisnoreasonforyoutotreatmethewayyoudidorthewayyou

are.”

Her mouth. She kept rambling and it was pissing me off. I slammed my fists

downonthetableandstoodupfrommyseat.

“YouwanttoknowwhyI’msoangry?It’sbecauseIcan’ttrustyou.Ican’ttrust

awordyousay.Thatlittlefabricatedstoryofyourslastnightwasagoodone.But

notgoodenoughformetobelieveyouoryourlies.”Ipointedmyfingerather.

Shesatthereasshedroppedherforkontoherplateandstaredatmewhileher

eyes filled with tears. She slowly got up from her seat, wiped her mouth with a

napkin,andsetitdownonthetable.

“I’m sorry you don’t believe me. But it’s all true. Everything I told you last

night was the truth. I’m dealing with dangerous men, Gabriel. They want their

moneyandIwantmyfatheroutofprison.”Shewalkedawayandheadedupstairs.

ChapterTwenty-Four

Kate

I ran up to my room, slammed the door, and threw myself on the bed. Did I

reallyblamehimfornottrustingme?DidIhavetherighttobesoupsetoverit?

WhydidIevencareifhetrustedmeornot?Thatwasthebigquestion.Ineededto

acceptthefactthathewouldnevertrustmeaftereverythingI’ddone.ThesoonerI

didthat,theeasierthisarrangementwouldbe.TheonlyreasonIwasherewasto

payoffadebt,nothingelse.Heonlysawmeasabusinessdeal,sothelessItold

himaboutmylife,thebetteroffI’dbe.Iwasstupidforwantingtoseewherehe

workedandforcaringthatheleftthehousebeforeIevenwokeup.WhenIfound

outhewasalreadygone,therewasapartofmethatwassad,andallIhadwanted

todowasseehimbeforeIstartedmyday.Thesefeelingsandemotionswereout

ofcontrolandIneededforthemtostop.I’dneverhadproblemslikethiswiththe

othermenIwaswith.Nevergotinvolved.Neverfeltathing.Ididn’tevenhaveto

pretend,butwithGabriel,Idid.

Irefusedtowallowinself-pity,soIgotupfromthebed,tookinadeepbreath,

andwalkedbackdownstairstocleanupdinner.WhenIreachedthekitchen,Isaw

Gabrielloadingthedishwasher.

“I’lltakecareofthat,”IspokeasIgrabbedthepanfromthestove.

“I’vegotit,”hesnapped.

“You’ve worked all day. Go upstairs. I’ll finish cleaning up and meet you in

yourbedroom.”

“Fine.”Hewipedhishandsonatowelandbegantowalkoutofthekitchen.

BeforeIknewit,hegrabbedmyarm,turnedmearound,andsmashedhismouth

into mine. Our heated kiss told me that we weren’t going to make it to the

bedroom. My fingers fumbled with his belt as I undid it and unzipped his pants,

whilehishandspulledmyshirtovermyhead.Wemovedarounduntilhehadme

pinnedupagainsttherefrigerator,thecoldnessofthestainlesssteelsendingajolt

through me. He took down my pants, grabbed my wrists, and held them together

withonehandwhilehisfreehandexploredmyarousedarea.WhenhemadesureI

waswetenoughforhim,hepulledhishardcockfromhisunderwearandshovedit

deepinsideme,causingmetogaspatbothpleasureandpain.Hemovedrapidly,

likeadoginheat,andhistongueslidacrossmyneck.Ashethrustinandoutof

me with hard, deep strokes, he stared into my eyes and spoke, “I want to trust

you.”

“Youcan,”Ibreathlesslyspokeasanorgasmerupted.

Hehaltedandburiedhimselfdeepinsidemewhilehecame.Hisheaddropped

tomyshoulder.

“No,Ican’t,”hewhispered.

Heremovedhimselffromme,tuckedhiscockbackinhisunderwear,pulledup

his pants, and walked away. I crossed my arms over my chest and slowly slid

down to the floor, trying to hold back the tears that so badly wanted to stream

downmyface.

The next morning, after a restless night of sleep, I waited in bed until I was

sure that Gabriel had left for the office. I had a lot to do today to get ready for

Hawaii, but there was one thing that took precedence: visiting my father. After

showeringandgettingdressed,Iheadedtothekitchen,madeacupofcoffee,and

grabbedsomefreshfruitfromtherefrigerator.

“Goodmorning,Kate,”Gracespoke.“Icanmakeyousomebreakfast.”

“Morning,Grace.Fruitisfine.I’mnotreallyhungry.”

“You’reupkindoflatethismorning.Iseverythingokay?”sheasked.

“Yeah. I just had a restless night, and I couldn’t really sleep. I’m going out

today.Doyouneedmetopickyouupanything?”Iaskedher.

“That’ssweetofyoutoask,butIhavetogooutmyselfanddosomegrocery

shopping.IsthereanythingIcangetyou?”

“Nothanks.”IgaveherasmallsmileasIsippedmycoffee.

GraceleftandonceIfinishedmyfruit,Igrabbedmypurseandheadedoutthe

frontdoor.

“Goingoutagain?”Edmondraisedhisbrow.

Usually, I’d have a witty comeback for him, but today, I was serious. To be

honest,Ithinkhewasdisappointed.IwasmakingheadwaywithhimandIstarted

tobelieveheenjoyedmycompany.

“IneedtogotoRikersIslandtovisitmyfathertoday.”

“Oh.Okay.Whenarevisitinghours?”

“Soon,”Ireplied.

“Thenwebetterheadoutnow.There’sgoingtobealotoftraffic.”

Wewalkeddownthestepstogetherandheopenedthecardoorforme.Hewas

definitelymakingprogress.

“Canyoudomeafavor,Edmond?”

“Itdepends.”Helookedatmethroughtherearviewmirror.

“Pleasedon’ttellGabrielthatIwenttheretoday.Ineedittostaybetweenthe

twoofus,”Ispokewithasadnessinmyvoice.

“Sure.Iwon’ttellhim.”

Whenwearrivedattheprison,Isignedin,gotsearched,andthentookaseatat

anemptytablewhileIwaitedforthemtobringmyfatherin.

“There’smybabygirl.”HesmiledasIstoodupandwebrieflyhugged.

“Hi,Daddy.”

“How are you? I haven’t seen you in a month, Kate. I was starting to get

worried.”

“I’msorry.Thingshavebeensocrazy.Ihavesomewonderfulnews.Imoved

toNewYork.”

“What?”Hecockedhishead.“WhataboutyourjobandschoolinChicago?”

“I got transferred here. The restaurant I work for opened up a location in

ManhattanandIaskedifIcouldtransfertobeclosertoyou.”

“That’swonderful.Butwhataboutschool?”

“Istoppedgoing.ItwastakingmeforeversinceIcouldonlytakeaclasshere

and there. But don’t worry, I have a great job and it pays good. Especially the

tips.”

“Areyouokay,sweetheart?”heaskedwithconcern.

“I’mfine.IhavethisgreatapartmentinaniceneighborhoodandI’vealready

madesomefriends.Thebestpartis,Icancomevisityoueveryweek.”Ibrightly

smiledtomaskthepaininsideme.

“WhataboutthatguyyouwereseeinginChicago?Whatwashisname?Tom,I

believe?”

“Iendedthatawhileago.Thingsjustweren’tworkingout.”

“I’msorrytohearthat,sweetheart.”

“Don’tbe,Daddy.Itwasforthebest.Rightnow,I’mjustfocusingonmeand

my career in the restaurant business. I’m learning everything I can because, one

day,Iwouldliketoopenupmyownrestaurant.”Ismiled.

“I’m so proud of you.” He grinned. “I worry about you, baby. I worry about

howgrowingupthewayyoudidwouldaffectyou.ThelastthingIwantedtodo

wasscrewyouup.”

“Youdidn’t.I’mgoodandI’mhappytobeclosertoyou.”

“NewYorkisadangerouscity.Youneedtobeonguardatalltimes.”

“Chicagowasn’tanysafer.”Iletoutalightlaugh.

Wetalkedforawhileandthenourtimewasup.Thegoodbyewasalwaysthe

hardestpart.

“I’llseeyounextweek.”Ismiledaswebrieflyhugged.

“Lookingforwardtoit,sweetheart.”

Iwalkedoutofthevisitingroomwithanemptinessinsideme.Ihatedseeing

himlockeduphere.Ithoughtwitheachvisititwouldgeteasier,butitneverdid.

“I’mreadytoleave,Edmond,”Isoftlyspoke.

“Areyouokay,Kate?”

“Notreally.”

We walked to the car and I climbed inside, pulling my seat belt over my

shoulderandbucklingit.

“Howaboutamacchiatoandablueberrymuffin?”Edmondsmiled.

“Ablueberrymuffin?”

“Didn’t you know that blueberry muffins always chase the blues away?” He

winked.

AsmilecrossedmylipsandweheadedtoStarbucks.

ChapterTwenty-Five

Kate

After I arrived back at the townhouse, I went up to my room to soak in a

bubble-filled warm tub before starting to pack for our trip tomorrow morning. I

wasn’tsurewhatkindofmoodGabrielwouldbeinwhenhegothomesincehis

angerandtrustissuesweregettingworseandIdidn’tfeellikedealingwithhim.I

laid my head back on the bath pillow and closed my eyes, taking in the sweet

aromaoflavender.IwasdriftingintoanotherworldwhenIheardaloudknockon

thebathroomdoor.

“Kate,areyouinthere?”Gabrielasked.

Iopenedmyeyesandsighed.Whatwashedoinghomealready?

“Yes.”

Iheardtheturningoftheknobandthedooropened.Gabrielstoodthereinhis

darkgrayArmanisuit,lookingsexyasfuck.

“Doyoumind?”IaskedasIraisedmybrow.

“Idon’t.”Hesmirked.

“Whyareyouhomealready?Shouldn’tyoubestressingoutoversomethingat

theoffice?”

“I need to pack for Hawaii. I brought home dinner for us. I hope you’re

hungry.”

“Dependsonwhatyoubrought,”Ispokewithaslightattitude.

“KoreanBBQ.”

“I’veneverhadit.”

“There’s a first time for everything. How much longer are you going to be? I

don’twantthefoodtogetcold.”

“Ibasicallyjustgotinbeforeyouknockedonthedoor.”

“Youcantakeonelater.Getoutandgetdressed.Dinneriswaiting,”hespoke

asheturnedandwalkedaway.

Itookinasharpbreathtotryandstopthevulgarwordsfromescapingmylips.

Whothehelldoeshethinkheis,tellingmewhattodo?Unfortunately,insteadof

tellinghimtofuckoff,Ididasheasked.Notforhim,butforme.

I went downstairs and found Gabriel sitting at the island already eating.

Walkingovertothefridge,Iopeneditandgrabbedabottleofwater.Lookingat

the white containers of food that sat on the counter, I was unsure, even though it

didsmellamazing.

“So,whatdowehavehere?”Iasked.

“Thiscontainerisporkbelly.Thisoneisduck,andthisoneisspicybeefshort

ribs.”

Grabbingaplatefromthecounter,Ioptedforthespicybeefshortribs.Iwasn’t

afanofduckandtherewasnowayIwaseatingporkbelly.Thethoughtnauseated

me.

“Takingthesaferoute,eh?”Gabrielsmirked.

“OfcourseIam.”

Heseemedtobeinabettermoodthanyesterday,whichwasgood.Thetension

didn’tseemasthick.

“Whatdidyoudotoday?”heasked.

Shit.Whydidhehavetoask?

“Notmuch,”Ilied.“HadamacchiatoandablueberrymuffinwithEdmond.”

“Youandheseemtobegettingalong.”

“Ithinkhelikesmenow.”Ismiled.

“Whatelsedidyoudo?Didyougetanypackingdone?”

“Notyet.Iwasgoingtostartaftermybath.”

Damn.Thesespicybeefshortribswereamazing.

“ThisiswhyIcan’ttrustyou,”heblurtedout.

“Excuseme?”

“Youlieeverychanceyouget,”hespokeinanirritatedtoneashestuffedhis

facewithporkbelly.

“Whatareyoutalkingabout?”

“YouwenttovisityourfatheratRikersIslandtoday.Didn’tyou?”

Deadsilencefilledtheair.IwasgoingtokillEdmond.

“Yes,Idid.”Igulped.

“Whydidn’tyousayso?”

“Howdidyouknow?DidEdmondtellyou?BecauseIspecificallyaskedhim

notto.”

Hegotupfromhisstoolandtookhisplateovertothesink.

“Firstofall,youarenevertotellmyemployeestolietome.EVER!Doyou

understandme?Ihaveatrackeronthecar.Imonitoryouractivitiesalldaylong.I

knowexactlywhereyougo.”

Idroppedmyforkonmyplate.

“Wow.Stalkermuch?”

“Iwouldn’thavetodoitifyoujusttoldthetruthallthetime.Whydidn’tyou

wantmetoknowyouwenttoseehim?”

“Idon’tknow.”Iloweredmyhead.

“Damn it, Kate!” His fists slammed down on the counter. “Tell me why you

wantedtohideitfromme?”

“Whoa,”Calebspokeashewalkedintothekitchen.“What’sgoingonhere?”

“Caleb,whatareyoudoinghere?”Gabrielaskedinacalmtone.

“IjustcametoseeyoubeforeyouleftforHawaiitomorrowandtotellyouthat

SonyRecordsofferedusasolidcontract!”Hespokewithexcitement.

“That’s great. Congratulations.” He smiled as he walked over and gave his

brotherahug.

“Thanks.”

“Congrats,Caleb.Youguysdeserveit.”

Heplacedhishandonmyshoulder.“Thanks,Kate.Ifthisisabadtime—”

“No.Areyouhungry?”Gabrielaskedhim.

“Nah.Ijustate.”

“Thencomeintothelivingroomandwe’llhaveacelebratorydrink.Kate,you

mayjoinuswhenyou’refinishedeating.”

“I’mnotveryhungry.IthinkI’lljustgouptomyroomandstartpacking.”Igot

upfrommystoolandheadedupthestairswithoutsayinganotherword.

****

Gabriel

“Mind telling me what all that was about?” Caleb spoke as we went into the

livingroom.

Steppingbehindthebar,Igrabbedtwoglassesandthebottleofbourbon.

“Sheliedtome.Shewenttoseeherfathertodayandtriedtodenyit.”

“Why?”

“Idon’tknow,”IrepliedasIhandedhimhisdrink.

“Younormallyaren’tlikethis,bro.What’sreallygoingon?”

“Nothing. I just want to know where she is and what she’s doing at all times

whensheleavesthishouse.”

“Ineverfiguredyoutohavestalkertendencies.”Hesmirked.

“Nowyousoundlikeher.”Irolledmyeyes.

“You’reinwaytoodeepwithher.Comeon,Gabriel,thisismeyou’retalking

to.”

“Shejustmakesmesoangry.Moresonowthanbefore.Idon’tknow.”Ishook

myhead.

“I’lltellyouwhy.”Hetookasipofdrink.“It’sbecauseyou’vefallenforher

andyouwanthertobeflawless.Butthat’snotpossible,bro.Everyoneisflawed

in one way or another. Yeah, she’s a con artist, but that’s a front, a façade. You

need to look past that and deep into her heart and soul to truly find the person

she’shiding.”

Isatacrossfromhimwithapuzzledlookonmyface.

“What?”

“She’s still playing all her roles; every person she ever invented. I believe

she’sscaredshitlesstoshowhertrueself.”

“Whywouldshebeafraid?”Iasked.

“Stopandthinkaboutitforaminute.Fromthetimeshewasalittlegirl,noone

ever knew her by her real name. At least that’s what I’m assuming if her father

wasoutconningpeople.Whenshemetothers,shehadtobecomesomeoneelse,

notKateHarper.Sheneverhadthechancetobeherself,bro,andI’mnotsureshe

knowshow.Orifshedoes,she’ssoafraidshewon’tbeaccepted.”

IsighedasIbroughtmyankletomykneeandtookasipofmydrink.

“Maybeyou’reright.Idon’tknow.”

“There was something about her that captivated you when you first saw her.

And even though she was disguised as someone else that night of the gala, you

knewitwasher.Andwhy?”heasked.

“Hersmile.”

“Exactly, bro. That smile belongs to Kate Harper and always has, no matter

howmanydifferentpeopleshebecame.Youalreadysawarealpieceofherand

that’swhatdrewyoutoherinthefirstplace.Giveherabreakandlettherestof

therealKateHarperemerge.Shewill,trustme.”Hegrinned.

“Areyousureyourpassioniswithmusic?”Icockedmyhead.

“Yeah. I’m sure.” He smirked. “You know I’ve always had this little gift of

seeingthroughpeople.Anyway,thanksforthedrink.Ibettergetgoing.Meandthe

bandareheadingtoL.A.inafewdaystorecord.I’msostoked.”

WebothstoodupandIgavemybrotheratighthug.

“I’mreallyhappyforyou,Caleb.Justdon’tforgetaboutmewhenyou’rethis

hugeoff-the-chartsrockstar.”

“Nah, bro. You’re my fam and the most important person in my life. I love

you.”

“Iloveyoutoo.Nowgetoutofhere.”Ipattedhisback.

ChapterTwenty-Six

Kate

AsIwaspacking,therewasalightknockonmydoor.

“Comein,”Isoftlyspoke.

“Iseeyou’repacking,”Gabrielsaidashewalkedintotheroom.

“Yep.”

I turned to the closet and grabbed a couple of sundresses I purchased for the

trip.

“Bytheway,howlongarewegoingtobeinHawaii?”Iasked.

“Afewdays.Why?”

“JustwonderinghowmuchIshouldpack.”

“Listen,Kate.Iwanttoapologizeforearlier.”

“Apologyaccepted,”IspokeasIneatlyfoldedthesundressesandputthemin

my suitcase. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I want to finish packing before I come

downtoyourroom.”

“Aboutthat.Ithinkitwouldbebesttotaketonightoff.I’vehadalongdayand

sohaveyouandwebothneedourrestbeforeourfoura.m.flight.”

“Foura.m.?”Icockedmyhead.“Whattimeareweleavingthehouse?”

“Carlwillbewaitingoutsideforusatthree.”

“Thatdoesn’tgiveusenoughtimetogettotheairport,checkourbags,andgo

throughsecurity,”Ispoke.

“We aren’t flying commercial. I’ve rented a private jet. Once we arrive in

Hawaiiaroundthreeo’clock,wehaveacoupleofhoursuntilweneedtobedown

attherestaurantforaspecialgrandopeningdinner,sopacksomethingformal.”

“Whyareyoujusttellingmethisnow?”Iglaredathim.“Idon’thaveanything

formalhere.Allmydressesarebackatmyapartment.”

Hesighed.“I’llmakeafewcallsandhavesomedresseswaitinginthehotel

suitewhenwearrive.Whatsizeareyou?”

“Four.”

“Andshoesize?”

“Eight.”

Hegotupfromthebed.

“GetsomerestandI’llseeyouinafewhours,”hespokeashewalkedoutthe

door,pullingitshutbehindhim.

Myalarmwokemefromasoundsleepattwothirtya.m.Thiswasnotnormal,

gettingupthisearlyforaflight.Idraggedmytiredbodyoutofbed,threwmyhair

up in a messy bun, pulled on a pair of black leggings, a white cami, and a long

blackcardigan.Afterslippingmyfeetintomyblackflats,Igrabbedmysuitcase

andtookittotheelevator.WhenIreachedthefoyer,Gabrielwasalreadythere,

waiting.

“Goodmorning,”hespoke.

“It’s the middle of the night and there’s nothing good about waking up at this

time,”Isnarled.

“You’llbefine.”Hehandedmeasilvertravelmug.“Imadeyousomecoffee.”

“Thanks.”

ThedooropenedandbothCarlandEdmondsteppedinside.

“Edmond?You’regoingwithus?”

“Yes.”Hesmiled.

IglancedoveratGabriel.

“DidyoureallythinkIwouldletyouonyourowninHawaii?”heaskedwitha

raisedbrow.“Ican’tbewithyouatalltimes.”

“That’sfine.”IwalkedovertoEdmondandhookedmyarminhis.“Ilikehis

companybetteranyway.Carl,grabmysuitcase,please.”

WeclimbedintothelimoandGabrielsatacrossfrommewithanirritatedlook

onhisface.Ididn’tcare.EventhoughItoldhimIacceptedhisapology,Ididn’t.I

wasdonetryingtomakehimtrustme.Itwasn’tworthitanymore.Ifhewantedto

haveanattitudewithme,yell,andbemean,fine.IprayedtoGodtogivemethe

strengthtogetthroughthesenextweeksandkeepwhatlittlebitofsanityIhadleft.

****

Gabriel

Shesatinthewindowseat,staringoutintotheclouds.Hereyeslookedtired

and she still wouldn’t say a word to me. I closed my laptop, got up from the

couch,andtooktheseatnexttoher.Withaslightturnofherhead,sheglaredat

me.

“CanIhelpyou?”sheaskedwithacockybuttiredattitude.

“Ithoughtmaybewecouldtalk.”

“I’m too tired to carry on a conversation.” She laid her head against the

window.

Iheldoutmyhandtoher.

“Comewithme.”

“Where?”

“There’sabedroomonthisplanewithacomfortablebedforyoutosleepin.”

“Where?”Shesatupandlookedaround.

“Intheback.Comeon.”

Herbeautifulblueeyesstaredintominebeforesheacceptedmyextendedhand.

Iledhertothesmallbutluxuriousbedroom.Sheimmediatelykickedoffhershoes

andclimbedontopofthebed,layingherheaddownonthepillow.

“Thisisnice.”Shesmiledassheclosedhereyes.

Istretchedoutonthebednexttoherandrestedmybackagainsttheheadboard,

placingmyhandsbehindmyhead.

“Whatareyoudoing?”sheaskedwithoneeyeopen.

“Thisisquitecomfortable.IthinkI’llrestmyeyesforabit.Isthataproblem?”

“Doyousnore?”sheasked.

“No.Doyou?”

“No.”

“Good.Gotosleep.”Mylipsgavewaytoasmallsmile.

IkeptmyeyesclosedforafewmomentsandthenopenedthemasIstaredat

her beautiful slightly parted lips and the rise and fall of her chest as she slept.

MaybeCalebwasright.Shewashidingherself,notonlyfromtheworld,butfrom

me.

Iwasjoltedoutofasoundsleep.MyeyesflewopentofindKatelyingonher

side,facingmeandpinchingmynose.

“Whatthehell,Kate?”

“Youweresnoring.Youtoldmeyoudidn’tsnore.”Shesmirked.

“Idon’t,”IspokeasIsatup.

“Youdo.”Thesmirkneverleftherface.

IsighedasIrestedmyheadbackontheheadboard.

“Howlonghavewebeenasleep?”Iasked.

“Acoupleofhours.”

“Idon’tknowaboutyou,butI’mstarving.HowaboutIorderussomelunch?”

IpickedupthephoneonthesmallroundtablenexttothebedandtoldDarcy,

theflightattendant,tobringinlunch.

“Alsobringinabottleofwineandtwoglasses,”Ispoke.

“Comingrightup,Mr.Quinn.”

“We’reeatinginhere?”sheaskedasshearchedherbrow.

“Yes.It’scomfy.Plus,it’smoreprivate,sowecantalk.”

“Talkaboutwhat?”Shesatupandcrossedherlegs.

“Iknowyoudidn’tacceptmyapologylastnight.You’restillmad.”

“You’reright.”Shelookeddownassheplayedwithherhands.“Whyisitso

importanttoyoutoknowaboutmyvisittomyfather?”

“MaybebecauseI’mjusttryingtogettoknowyoubetter.AllIwantistoknow

you, Kate. The real you. Not Hannah who stole my watch, and not all the other

peopleyouwerewithothermen.”

Ourmomentwasinterruptedbyaknockonthedoor.

“Comein.”Isighed.

“Yourlunch,sir,”Darcyspokeasshewheeledinasilvercartwithtwoplates,

abottleofwine,andtwoglasses.

“Thankyou.”

Afterpouringthewine,IhandedKateherglassalongwithherplate.Thetwo

of us stretched out on the bed with our backs against the headboard and I

continuedourconversation.

“Ijustwanttoknowyou.”

Awhisperofalaughescapedher.“I’velivedaliemyentirelife,andoncewe

movedtoChicago,IthoughttheliehadendedandIcouldbeKateHarperforthe

first time. Then, my father went to prison and the vicious cycle started all over

again. I had the opportunity once to tell someone my real name. Carla was our

neighbor next door to the house we rented. She was a sweet old woman in her

eighties. You’d never know she was that old. She had the spunk of a girl in her

twenties. When she introduced herself, my name was on the tip of my tongue. I

wasgoingtotellherandthenI’dbesetfree.FreefromthepretendingthatIhad

done for so long, and that someone in this big world would finally know who I

was. But, there was this little voice inside my head that told me not to do it

because anything could have and probably would have happened. I didn’t

completelytrustmyselformysituationtotellheratthatmomentthatmynamewas

Kate Harper. So, I introduced myself as Katerina Voight. Katie for short. It was

closeenoughtomyfirstnamesoitdidn’tfeelsobad.”

“I’msorryyouhadtolivelikethat,Kate.”

Shereachedovertothetablethatsatonhersideandpickedupherwineglass.

“Itwasn’tallbad.”

“Whydidyoufinallydecidetotellme?”Iasked.

“BecauseitfeltrightandIwanttogainyourtrust.Plus,youhadkidnappedme

andalreadyknewallmyaliases,sowhatwasthepointofnottellingyou?”

Iletoutalongsigh.“Ididn’tkidnapyou.HowmanytimesdoIhavetotellyou

that?Youvoluntarilycamehomewithme.”

Asmallsmilecrossedherlips.

“ThenyoulockedmeinabedroomandsecuredthehousesoIcouldn’tleave.I

wouldclassifythataskidnapping.Nottomentionthefactthatyouhandcuffedme

whenweleftthehouseandyougavemeacellphonewhereyournumberwasthe

onlyoneIcoulddial.”

“Okay.”Iheldupmyhand.Whenyousayitlikethat—”

“I’mgladyoufinallyrealizewhatyou’vedone.”Shesmirked.

“Ithasn’tbeenthatbad,hasit?”Iasked.

“Notsomuch.Tobehonest,it’sthemostnormalI’vefeltinmyentirelife.”

“Really?”Icockedmyheadandoureyesmet.“Why?”

“BecauseInolongerhadtopretendtobesomeoneIwasn’t.”Shelookeddown

atherplate.

Ireachedoverandsoftlystrokedhercheekwiththebackofmyhand.

ChapterTwenty-Seven

Kate

I opened my soul to him at that very moment and he didn’t judge me. For the

firsttimeinmylife,Ifeltnormal.Ibroughtmyhanduptomycheekandplacedit

onhisasIclosedmyeyes.Thewarmthofhistouchradiatedthroughoutmybody

andmademetremble.Hetookourplatesandsetthembackonthecart.Turningto

me,hecuppedmychininhishandandsoftlybrushedhislipsagainstmine.Our

kisssoonturnedpassionateasIlaydownandhehoveredoverme.Wemadelove;

slow,sensual,andinvariouspositionsbeforeheexplodedinsideme.Thegentle

touch of his hands on my body sent chills down my spine. His touch felt

possessive and made me feel safe and secure. A feeling I wanted to feel for the

restofmylife.

We lay in bed for the first time together, his arms wrapped around me as my

headlaidonhischest.

“Weshouldgetbackoutthere,”hespoke.“Ineedtocheckmyemails.”

“Yeah.Weshould.Howmuchlongeristheflight?”IaskedasIliftedmyhead.

“Aboutthreemorehours.”Hesoftlykissedmylips.

Iclimbedoffthebedandslippedbackintomyclothes.Gabrieldidthesame

andwebothleftthebedroom.HetookhislaptoptothetableandIsatbackinmy

seat, staring at the clouds as the plane floated through them. I couldn’t help but

glance over at Gabriel now and again. And every time I did, the corners of my

mouth curved up into a small smile. The anger I harbored towards him quickly

dissipatedwhenheexplainedwhyhewassoangrywithme.Igotit.Ireallydid,

andthebestpartwasItrustedhim.Allthemanwantedwashonestyfromthestart,

butIwastooafraidtolettherealmeemerge.

When we finally landed, we took a limo that was waiting for us to the hotel,

which consisted of ten floors, four hundred breathtaking guest rooms, six

restaurants,acoffeecafé,acandyshop,giftshop,alargegym,casualandformal

clothingstoresformenandwomen,andaluxuriousspa.

“Wow,”Ispokeinamazementaswesteppedintothemarbledlobby.

“WelcometoQuinnHotels,Kate.”Gabrielsmiled.

Afterbeinggreetedbynumerousstaffandthehotelmanager,Albert,weheaded

uptothepenthousesuiteonthetenthfloorthatoverlookedtheocean.Iwalkedout

totheterraceandtookinthebeautythatHawaiioffered.Theroaringoftheocean

and the subtle sounds the waves made as they crashed to the shore gave me a

senseofpeace.

“Well,whatdoyouthink?”heaskedashewalkedupbehindme.

“It’sbeautiful.Thehotel,theroom,everything.”

“Idesignedthisentirehotelmyself.ItwassomethingIhadbeenworkingonfor

acoupleofyears.”

“Yourfatherwouldbesoproud.”Ismiled.

“CanIletyouinonalittlesecret?”heasked.

“Ofcourse.”

“I’m going to build a digital hotel. The first one will be in Las Vegas, and

we’reprojectedtostartbuildinginaboutsixmonths.”

“Caretoexplainwhatadigitalhotelconsistsof?”Ismirked.

“Every guest room will have their own virtual butler who will control

everything in the room from temperature control, lights, shades, showers, baths,

TVs. You name it, and the virtual butler will do it for you. He will even order

roomserviceforyou.Allyouhavetodoisask.”

I let out a laugh. “Are you serious? So, if I want to take a shower, what do I

say?”

“For example, let’s say your butler for your room is named Gregory. You

wouldsimplysay,outloud,‘Gregory,Iwanttotakeashower.’Theshowerwill

turnonautomaticallybeforeyouevenwalkintothebathroom.”

“Shutup.”Ilightlysmackedhim.

“I’mserious.Eachroomwillhaveahugecomputerscreenattachedtothewall.

Youdon’tevenhavetositdownandtypeanythingoutifyouwanttosurftheweb

or check your emails. The butler will do it for you. For example, you’d say,

‘Gregory, I need to check my email,’ and voila, your emails will appear on the

screen.Youcanalsocheckout.‘Gregory,I’mcheckingoutatninea.m.’andatthat

time,youwillautomaticallybecheckedout.”

“DoesGregorytalkback?”Iasked.

“Of course. When you enter the room, he’ll greet you. When you leave the

room, he’ll tell you goodbye. You can carry on a conversation with him to an

extent.He’llaskyouhowyourdaywas,askifyousleptwell,andtellyougood

morning.”

“That’s kind of creepy.” I scrunched up my nose. “I’m surprised you aren’t

havingasexywoman’svoice.”

“Ah.”Hesmiled.“Ifamanistravelingalone,hisbutler/maidwillbefemale.

Butifit’sacouple,itwillbemale.”

Irolledmyeyesathim.“Ofcourse.Itsoundsamazing.”

“Itwillbe.Itwassomethingmyfatheralwaysdreamedof,andbeforehedied,

hetoldmetomakesureIbuiltit.Itwasaprojecthehadbeenworkingonforten

years.Vegaswillbethefirstplacetolaunchit.”

“I’mgoingtoassumeitwillalsobeacasino?”

“Ofcourseitwillbe.OneofthebestVegashastooffer.”Hesmiled.“Listen,”

he took hold of my hands, “there are only five people who know about this,

includingyou.Wearetheonlycompanythatpossessesthatkindoftechnologyfor

thisrightnowandwordcan’tgetout.Understand?”

“Sure. I would never tell a soul. You of all people know how good I am at

keepingsecrets.”

“I know.” He kissed my forehead. “We should get ready for dinner. Your

dressesshouldbeinthebedroom.GopickoneoutwhileIgetintheshower.”

WhenIwalkedintothebeautifullydecoratedbedroom,therewasasilverrack

inthecornerwithapproximatelytendifferentdresseshanginguponit.Infrontof

therack,shoeswerelaidout,coordinatingwitheachdress.Ithumbedthroughthe

rackandpulledoutachampagne-coloredgownwithornatebeadingandalayered

A-line bottom. It was perfect. I took my makeup in the bathroom of the other

bedroominthesuite,tookashower,andgotready.Aftercurlingmyhair,Ipinned

itupbutleftafewwispycurlshanging.Afterslippingintomydressandputting

onthematchingshoeswithaheel,Iwalkedoutintothelivingareaofthesuiteand

sawGabrielstandingontheterracewithadrinkinhishand.Hiseyesrakedover

mefromheadtotoe.

“Youlookstunning.”Hesmiledashewalkedtowardsme.

“Andsodoyouinyourblacktux.”IsmirkedasIstraightenedhisbowtie.

“Shallwe?”Heheldouthisarm.

“Weshall,Mr.Quinn.”

We took the elevator down to Incognito, one of the formal restaurants in the

hotel.Theplacewasfilledwithinfluentialbusinessmenandwomen.Wemixed

andmingledforawhileasheintroducedmeasKate.Iwasgratefulhedidn’ttell

mylastname.Iwasn’treadyfortheworldtoknowmeyet.Iwasstillgettingused

toGabrielknowingwhoIwas.

Whilehetalkedbusinesswithacoupleoffriendsofhis,Itookaseatatthebar.

“WhatcanIgetyou?”thepolitebartenderasked.

“Tequilawithasplashoflime,please.”

“Comingrightup.”Hesmiled.

AsIwassippingonmydrink,Inoticedamantaketheseatnexttome.

“I’llhavewhattheprettyladyishaving,”hespokewithaFrenchaccenttothe

bartender.“MayIbuyyouanother?”Agrincrossedhislips.

I studied him. Mid-forties, stylish blonde hair, which he obviously dyed, and

shortonthesideswithashagontop.Greeneyesthathadashadylookaboutthem.

Wealthyandslick.French.Aplayer.Adefiniteplayer.

“Sure.Whynot.”Ismiled.

“MynameisMarcelMathieu.”Heextendedhishand.

“Kate.”Iplacedmineinhisandgaveitalightshake.

“Why is a beautiful woman such as yourself sitting at the bar alone? If you

weremywife,Iwouldneverletyououtofmysight.”

Ah, he’s trying to find out if I’m single and making himself sound like a

stalker.

“I’mnotmarried.”Ismiled.

“Wellthen,ifIwasyourboyfriend,Iwouldneverletyououtofmysight.”He

gavehisheadalightnod.

“Noboyfriendeither.”Itookasipofmydrink.

“Ifindthathardtobelieve.”Hesmirked.

“Well,believeit.”Iarchedmybrow.

“Whomareyouherewith?Don’ttellmeyou’reatthisbeautifulhotelalone.”

“I’mherewithGabrielQuinn.”

“Isee.Well,itwasnicetomeetyou,Kate.”Hegotupfromhisstool.

“Nicetomeetyoutoo,Marcel.Thanksforthedrink.”Iheldupmyglass.

Was it something I said? Gabriel walked over and placed his hand on my

back.

“Whatwasthatallabout?”heasked.

“Marcel?”Iturnedmyheadandlookedathim.

“Yes.”

“He was hitting on me, bought me a drink, and then when he found out I was

herewithyou,hebolted.What’sgoingonthere?”

GabrieltooktheseatMarcelhadsatinandaskedthebartenderforabourbon.

“His father and mine were rivals. Had been for years. It started with our

grandfathers.”

“Whathappened?”Iasked.

“Whenmygrandfatherfirsthadtheideatoopenahotel,hewasshortthefunds

todoit.HeandMarcel’sgrandfatherhadbeenfriendsforyearsatthattime.He

offeredtoloanmygrandfathertheadditionalmoneyheneededtoopenthehotelin

exchange for being his business partner. My grandfather agreed and, soon after,

QMQuarterswasopened.Atfirst,itdidn’tdosowellandwasalmostforcedinto

bankruptcyafterthefirstyear.”

“Why?”Ifrowned.

“BecauseMarcel’sgrandfather’svisionchangedandhewantedmoretoofast.

Hewantedtobeontopandnumberone.Hebecamegreedy.So,togethimoutof

thecompany,mygrandfatherblackmailedhim.”

“Withwhat?”

“I don’t know. My father never would tell me, but it had to be something

seriousinorderforMarcel’sgrandfathertoacceptthebuyout.Thatwastheendof

their partnership and friendship. His grandfather packed his family up, moved

backtoFrance,andopenedhisownhotel,whichdoesverywell.Afterhepassed

away,Marcel’sfatherdecideditwastimetomoveoutofFranceandheretoNew

YorkwhereheopeneduphisfirsthotelintheU.S.”

“Whichhotelchaindoesheown?”

“RegalHotels.”

“Bigcompetitionforyou?”IsmiledasIsippedmydrink.

“Not really. They do a good business, but nothing like my hotels do. Enough

talkaboutMarcel.Let’sgositdownfordinner.”Heheldouthisarm.

ChapterTwenty-Eight

Gabriel

Iwatchedherfromacrosstheroomasshestoodandspokewithsomeofthe

guests.Everyoneseemedtolikeher.Sheradiatedbeautyandconfidenceandshe

turnedmeon.ThefeelingsIhadforhercamefullforcetodayaftersheopenedup

to me. I considered it a breakthrough and it made me happy that she trusted me

enoughtotellmeaboutherlife.Itwasgettinglateandthelastoftheguestsleftthe

restaurant.

“Areyoureadytoheaduptotheroom?”Iaskedherasshesatatthebar.

Shestumbledassheattemptedtogetup.

“Whoa.” I smiled as I grabbed her arm. “I think you had one too many

tequilas.”

“Nah.”Shewavedherhandinfrontofherface.“I’mfine.”

Sheheldontomyarm,andaswebegantotakeafewsteps,shestopped.

“TheroomisspinningandI’mnotfeelingsowell,”shesoftlyspoke.

Iswoopedherupandcarriedhertotheelevator.

“Lay your head on my shoulder and close your eyes,” I spoke. “And please,

whateveryoudo,donotgetsickonme.”

“I’lltrynotto.”Sheclosedhereyes.

Once we reached the suite, I opened the door and began to carry her to the

guest bedroom, but stopped midway and turned around and carried her to the

mastersuite.Layingheronthebed,Itookoffhershoesandthenrolledherover

andunzippedherdress.Grabbingtherobefromthecloset,Ilaiditdownonthe

bedwhileItookoffherdress.

“Gabriel?”shespokeasshelookedatme.

“Yes?”

“IthinkI’mgoingtobesick.”

“Shit.”

I grabbed hold of her arm, quickly led her to the bathroom, and rubbed her

shoulders as she vomited all the alcohol she drank. Once she was done, I ran a

washclothundercoolwaterandplaceditonherforehead.

“Doyounormallygetsicklikethiswhenyoudrink?”

“No.ItmusthavebeenthosefireballshotsIwasdoing.”

“Fireballshots?Withwho?”Iasked.

“I think her name was Lydia. Or was it Lucy? Or maybe it was Lulu. Hell, I

don’tremember.”

IsmiledasIhelpedherfromthefloorandintobed.Climbinginnexttoher,I

told her good night and turned off the light. Just as I was drifting off to sleep, I

heardKate’svoice.

“I’vebeenlyingtomyfatherforyears,”shewhispered.

Iopenedmyeyesandturnedmyheadtolookather.

“What?”

“Hedoesn’thaveacluewhatI’vebeendoingsincehewenttoprison.”

Isatup,reachedover,andturnedonthelamp.

“Kate,Idon’tunderstand.”

Sherolledovertofacemeandtuckedherhandsunderherpillow.

“HethinksthatIwasworkingatahigh-endrestaurantasawaitressandgoing

toschoolinChicago.WhenIwenttovisithimtheotherday,ItoldhimthatIhad

justmovedherebecausetheownerIworkedforopenedarestaurantinNewYork

and I asked him if I could transfer so I could be closer to him. If he knew the

things I had really done, he’d be so disappointed. The last thing he said to me

beforetheysenthimtoprisonwas,‘Don’tmakethesamemistakesIdid.Goout

intotheworldandmakesomethingofyourself.Makeyouroldmanproud.’”

Ilaydownonmypillow,facingher,andstrokedhercheek.

“You were doing what you thought you had to do to get him out of prison.

Maybeit’stimeyoutoldhimthetruth.”

“Idon’tthinkIcan.Icouldn’tbeartoseethedisappointmentinhiseyes.”

“He loves you, Kate. You’re his entire world. Sure, he’ll be upset and

disappointedforawhile,buthisloveforyouwillovertakethat.”

“Yourfather’sloveforCalebdidn’tovertakeit.”

“Myfatherwasadifferentmanandincapableoftrulylovinganyone.Helethis

successandgreedconsumehim.Allhereallycaredaboutwashisreputation.”

Shemovedcloserandsnuggledundermyarm,forcingmetolieonmybackso

herheadcouldrestagainstmychest.IslowlyclosedmyeyesasIkissedthetopof

herhead.

“TheonethingIalwayswantedgrowingupwasadog.AwhiteMaltesesoI

could put cute little bows on the top of her head. But with the way we moved

aroundsomuch,mydadsaiditwasn’tagoodidea.Ialwaysthoughtthathavinga

dog of my own would make me feel less lonely. I need to sleep now,” she

whispered.

“Getsomerest.Wecantalkaboutthismoreinthemorning.”

Her wall was crumbling down right before me and I’d be there for her when

thelastpiecefell.ShewasgrowingmoreimportanttomewitheachtruththanI

thought she would. Holding her against me felt right, more right than anything in

my life. I’d held many women beside me in bed but holding her gave me a new

feeling. One I couldn’t describe. I closed my eyes and drifted off into a deep

sleep.

****

Todaywastheofficialgrandopeningofthehotelandeveryroomintheplace

wasbooked.Nowthatthiswasfinished,myattentionandfocuswouldgoheavily

into the building of the new hotel in Vegas, a hotel that was probably the most

importanttome.Ihadpeopletospeakwithandacoupleofmeetingstohold,soI

toldKatetogodowhatevershewantedandI’dcatchupwithherlater.Shechose

to go down to the beach for the day. She said that if she couldn’t see parts of

Hawaiiwithme,thenshe’dbehappyjusttositinthesandunderthewarmsunand

waitforme.IbelievedherandIcouldhonestlysaythatIwasfullystartingtotrust

her.

“Weneedtogetdressedandgodownforbreakfast.Areyoufeelingokay?”

“Iam.I’mgoingtotakeaquickshowerfirstifwehavetime,”shespoke.

“Goodidea.Ithinkmaybeweshouldtakeonetogethertosavetime.”Ismiled.

“I’dlikethat.”Shebitintoherbottomlip.

She climbed out of bed and, with her back to me, she slid her robe off her

body,lettingitfalltothefloor.Hercurvesandperfectlyroundassmademycock

standinaninstant.Shewalkedintothebathroom,climbedintotheshower,andI

followed.

Aswestoodunderthestreamofwarmwater,ourlipstenderlymet.Myhands

gropedherbreastsasherswrappedaroundmyhardcock,strokingitupanddown,

causing me to become more excited than I already was. Getting down on my

knees,mytonguesliddownhertorsowhilemyhandsstayedfirmlyplantedonher

breasts, down her clit, and to her aroused wet opening. I circled around her as

moans escaped her lips. Moans of pleasure and fulfillment. Dipping a finger

inside, I explored her until I knew she was ready to take my cock inside her. I

couldn’t wait anymore and the animal inside me was about to emerge. Standing

up,Iplacedheragainsttheshowerwall,grabbingherasstightlyandliftingherup

onto my cock. Her arms and legs wrapped around me and our lips met with

passion. The water beat down on us as I thrust inside her. She took me all in,

everyinchwithease.Thewarmthwasoverwhelmingandintoxicating.Ourmoans

wereinsyncasweenjoyedthepleasurewegaveeachother.Ithrustinandoutof

herrapidly,holdinghertightandagainstmywetbody.ShecameandIsmiledas

our lips were connected. One last thrust and I buried myself inside, straining to

poureverydropofcomeIhadinher.Iwaschanging,shewaschanging,andthe

feelingthatresidedinsidemecouldn’thavebeenmoreright.

“Thankyou,”shewhisperedasoureyeslockedoneachother’s.

“You’rewelcome.”Ismiled.

“I don’t mean about what just happened. I mean for being there for me and

listening.”

“Again,you’rewelcome.I’mhereforyouanytimeyouneedme,Kate.Never

forgetthat.”

“Iwon’t.”Herlipspressedagainstmine.

“Webetterwashupandgetoutofhere,”Ispoke.

I set her down and she grabbed the bottle of shampoo, poured some into her

hands,andplacedthemonmyhead.Welaughedandjokedaroundaswewashed

eachother.Ididn’twanttheshowertoend,butbytimeallwassaidanddone,we

neededtoheaddownstairs.

ChapterTwenty-Nine

Kate

After breakfast, Gabriel had business stuff to do, so Edmond and I headed

downtothebeach.

“CanIletyouinonalittlesecret?”Iaskedhim.

“Sure.”Hesmiled.

“Ilovehim,Edmond.Forthefirsttimeinmylife,I’minlove.”

Hereachedoverandtookholdofmyhand,whichshockedtheshitoutofme.

“IknowyoudoandI’mprettysureMr.Quinnhasthesamefeelingsforyou.”

“Youthink?”Ilookedoverathim.

“Yes,Ido.”

“I don’t know. A man like him could never love someone like me. I’ve done

horriblethings.”

“Listen,Kate.Don’tbeatyourselfupaboutthethingsyou’vedone.Putitallin

thepastandliveinthepresent.Lovedoesn’tcomearoundveryoften,andwhenit

does,youneedtoholdontoitastightasyoucan.Becauseifyoudon’t,you’llend

uplivingalifefullofregrets.”

“Isthatwhatyou’redoing?”Iasked.“Wereyouinloveonce?”

Heletgoofmyhandandsighed.

“Iwasstupidandletlovewalkrightoutofmylife.OnceIrealizedwhatIhad

done, I went to tell her that I was wrong and that I couldn’t live without her. I

stopped at the flower shop and bought her a dozen red roses. I made a dinner

reservation at her favorite restaurant and I was going to ask for her hand in

marriage.Shewasoutthatdayrunningsomeerrandsandagreedtomeetwithme

whenshewasfinished.Shesaidshe’dcallwhenshegothome.Iwaitedforhours

andIstillhadn’theardfromher.Itriedcallingherphone,butitkeptgoingstraight

tovoicemail.ThenmyphoneranganditwashersistertellingmethatVivianwas

inacaraccidentandwastakentothehospital.BytimeIgotthere,shehadalready

passedaway.”

“Ohmygod,Edmond.I’msosorry.”Iplacedmyhandonhis.

“Ifyoulovehim,holdontohim.Don’tletself-doubtandfearkeepyoufrom

happiness.Believeme,Kate,it’stheworstfeelingintheworldwhenyouletthe

oneyoulovegoandnevergotthechancetotellthemyouwerewrong.”

Hegotupfromthesand.“I’mgoingtogetadrink.Wantone?”

“Thatwouldbegreat.Justwaterforme,though.”

AsIwassittingtherewithmyeyesclosed,reflectingonwhatEdmondhadtold

me,Iheardaman’svoicewithaFrenchaccentbesideme.

“Well,helloagain.”

Lookingathimthroughmysunglasses,Ispoke,“Hello.”

“Howisyourdaygoingsofar?”heasked.

“Fine.Andyours?”

“VerygoodnowthatIseethisbeautifulwomansittingallaloneonthebeach.”

“I’m not alone. My friend Edmond is with me. He just went to get me some

water.”

“NoGabriel?”

“He’sbusydoingworkstuff.Bytheway,Ididn’tgetachancetoaskyoulast

nightsinceyouhastilyranaway,whatareyoudoinghere?”

“GabrielisafriendofmineandIwantedtocongratulatehimontheopeningof

hisbeautifulhotel.”

Thisguywasfullofshit.Icouldsmellitamileaway.

“AreyouandGabrielanitem?Becauselastnight,yousaidyoudidn’thavea

boyfriend.”

“Idon’t,andno,wearen’tanitem.Justgoodfriends.”

“Thatpleasesmetohearthat.Howaboutjoiningmefordinnerthisevening?”

hespoke.

“AsmuchasIwouldenjoythat,Marcel,I’mafraidIcan’t.Ihavedinnerplans

withGabriel.WhatkindoffriendwouldIbetocanceltohavedinnerwithyou?”

“Understood. A woman who values her friendships. I like that.” He smirked.

“I’m flying back to New York tomorrow. Perhaps we can do something before I

leave.”

“I’mnotsurethat’sgoingtobepossible.Haveasafeflighthome.”Ismiled.

“Awomanwhoplayshardtogetisaturnon.Makenomistake,Kate,wewill

have dinner together one day. I always go after what I want.” He stood up and

gave me a wink. Before he walked away, he turned and looked at me. “By the

way,Inevergotyourlastname.”

“Young.KateYoung.”Ismiled.

“Iwillfindyou,KateYoung,”hespokeashewalkedaway.

Isatthere,shakingmyheadindisbelief.Whatatool.

“Again?”Gabrielaskedashestoodoverme,handingmeabottleofwater.

“Whatareyoudoinghere?Ithoughtyouhadbusinessstufftodo.”

“IdidandthenIsaidscrewit.Ithinkweshouldspendthedaytogether.”

“Where’sEdmond?”

“I ran into him as he was getting your water and I told him to go explore

Hawaii.Onme,ofcourse.”

Heheldouthishandandhelpedmeupfromthesand.

“WhatdidMarcelwantthistime?”

“Hewantedmetojoinhimfordinnertonight.ItoldhimnoandthatIhadplans

withyou.Thatguyisarealasshole.”

“IknowheisandIdon’twantyoutalkingtohim.He’strouble.”

“Noworries.He’sleavingtomorrowtogobacktoNewYork.”

“Good.Theonlyreasonhe’shereistospysohecanstealideas.Themanand

hisfatherareascrookedastheycome.Guesswhat?”

“What?”Iasked.

“I’mtakingyouonayachtfortheday.”

“Igetseasick.”Ismirked.

“Idon’treallycare.”Hepulledmeintohimandkissedmylips.

****

Gabriel and I spent the next few days exploring Hawaii and enjoying each

other’scompany.Eachday,wegrewcloserand,aswedid,myfeelingsforhim

strengthened.Ihadneverfeltthiswaybeforeinmylifeand,tobehonest,itscared

mealittlebecauseitwasalltooperfect.IwantedtotellhimthatIlovedhimbutI

wantedtowaitforhimtosayitfirst.EventhoughIwasprettysurehedid,there

wasapartofmethatwasscaredtodeathofrejection.ThiswasthekindoflifeI

had always dreamed of. Being me, Kate Harper, and no one else. I decided that

when we went home to New York, I was going to tell my father the truth. He

neededtoknowandIneededtotellhimformyownsake.Mydaysoflivingasa

conwereover.Iwasgoingtofocusongettingarealjobandlivemylifeforme.

ItwasourlastnightinHawaiiandGabrielandIwalkedhandinhandonthe

beachalongtheshore.Westoppedforamomentandtookinthebeautyofthesun

thathadbeguntosetovertheocean.

“I’ve decided that when we get back, I’m going to tell my father the truth,” I

spoke.

“Really?”

“Really.”Ismiled.“It’stimeItakecontrolofmylife.I’vebeenlivinginmy

father’sshadowmyentirelife.Doingeverythinghetoldmetodo,andstilldoing

itafterhewenttoprison.”

“Idon’tunderstand.Yourfatherdidn’twantyoutodowhatyoudid.Youmade

thatchoice.”

“I did it for him so he wouldn’t have to spend twenty years in prison. Being

aloneinaworldwherenotonesinglepersonexcepthimknewwhoItrulywas,

wasfrightening.ItwaseasiertobeallthosedifferentpeoplesoIdidn’thaveto

facetherealityofbeingmyselfallaloneintheworld.”

Hewrappedhisarmsaroundmeandpulledmeintohim.

“You aren’t alone, Kate. You have me.” He kissed the top of my head. “And

Edmond.Let’snotforgetabouthim.”

AsmilecrossedmylipsasIbrokeourembraceandlookedupathim.Huesof

richorange,yellow,andredshadowedhim.Tome,hewasmysavior.

“Thankyou,Gabriel.Thatmeanssomuchtome.”

He swept his thumb across my lips before his mouth met mine amongst the

shoresofoceanandunderneaththesunset.

ChapterThirty

Gabriel

HawaiiwasperfectionandKateandIweregrowingclosereveryday.Shewas

desperatetochangeherlifeandItrustedher.ItoldherthatIwouldhelpherevery

wayIcould,andifshewantedajobatmyoffices,shehadone.Shewasn’tsure

whatshewantedtodowithherlife.ShewasstilllearninghowtobeherselfandI

couldn’tbeprouder.Ilovedher.Iwasinlovewithher,andshetookupeverybit

ofspaceIhadinmyheart.

Ourthirtydayswerealmostup,andeventhoughtheoriginalplanwastolether

go,Icouldn’t.Iwantedhertostayinmylife,andIwantedtomakehermineand

mineonly.Thewords“Iloveyou”wereonthetipofmytongueeveryday,butI

hadtoholdbackbecauseIdidn’twanttoscareher.Ihadaplan.Ondaythirty,I

would spend the day with her, buy her beautiful flowers, take her somewhere

special,andprofessmyloveforher.Ithadtobeperfect.Iwouldn’thaveitany

otherway.Thislovewasrealformethistime.Ihaditall.Athrivingbusinessand

careerIloved,abeautifulhome,family,friends,andawomanwhomIadoredand

loved with every fiber of my soul. Sex with her was out of this world, and she

evenletmeusethehandcuffsonher.Infact,shewastheonewhosuggestedit.She

pleased me in every way possible. I wanted to take care of her, but I knew in

orderforhertoletme,sheneededtofigureoutwhatshewantedfirst.Iknewshe

lovedme.Eventhoughshehadn’tsaidit,Icouldfeelit.

Iheldherinmyarms,herbodywrappedtightlyaroundmineaswelayinbed.

Today was the day she was going to tell her father the truth. I asked her if she

wantedmetogowithherandshesaidthatshewantedtogoalone.Ikissedthetop

ofherhead,thankfulthatshewaswithme.

“Morning.”Shesmiledassheopenedhereyes.

“Ididn’tmeantowakeyou,”Ispoke.

“Youdidn’t.”Herfingerranacrossmychest.

“Ihavetogetreadyforwork.Areyousureyoudon’twantmetogowithyouto

seeyourfather?”

“I’msure.ThisissomethingIneedtodoonmyown.But,thenexttimeIvisit

him,Iwouldloveforyoutogo.”Sheliftedherheadandbrushedherlipsagainst

mine.

“Iwouldlikethat.”

Ikissedheronelasttimeandgotup,hoppedintotheshower,andgotreadyfor

work.Beforeleavingfortheoffice,weenjoyedanicebreakfasttogether,likewe

dideverymorning.

“Haveagoodday.”Shesmiledasshekissedmegoodbye.

“Youtoo,sweetheart.Goodluckwithyourdad.”

Ispentabetterpartofthedayinback-to-backmeetings,andwhenIreturnedto

myoffice,Thaddeuswalkedinand,instantly,Iknewsomethingwaswrong.

“Youbettersitdown,Gabriel,”hespoke.

“What’sgoingon?”IaskedasInarrowedmyeye.

Hethrewanarticleonmydesk.Ipickeditup,andasIreadit,myheartbegan

topoundrapidly.

“What the fuck is this?” I asked through gritted teeth as my grip on the paper

tightened.

“I—Idon’tknow.”

I stood up from my chair and slammed my fists down on the desk. Rage

consumedme.

“Wheredidyougetthis?”

“Itwassentbymessengerwhenyouwereinyourmeetings,”hereplied.“How

isthispossible?Didyou—”

IranmyhandsthroughmyhairasIpacedaroundmyoffice.

“Ofcoursenot!”Ishouted.“FUCK!Geteveryoneinmyofficenow!”

Itookoffmysuitcoat,threwitonthechair,andcontinuedtopacearoundthe

officeindisbelief.Thaddeuswalkedbackinwithmyteamandwetookaseatat

thetable.Igrilledthem,onebyone.Iyelled,screamed,andshowedthemaside

ofmethey’dneverseenbefore.Itrustedthemandtheiranswers.Then,something

hitme.Ithadtobeher.Mystaffwouldneverbetrayme,butIwouldn’tputitpast

someoneelse.Ididn’twanttobelieveit.Icouldn’tbelieveit.Butithadstartedto

makesense.Igrabbedmysuitcoatandflewoutoftheoffice.

“Lu,I’mgoinghome.I’llseeyoutomorrow,”IspokeasIrushedpasther.

Before walking through the front door, I took in three deep breaths to calm

down.AsIsteppedinside,Icalledhername.

“Whatareyoudoinghome?”Kateaskedasshewalkeddownthestairs.

“I have a question for you and I want an honest answer,” I spoke in a harsh

tone.

“Gabriel,what’swrong?”sheaskedassheapproachedme.

“DidyoutellMarcelaboutmyplansforthedigitalhotel?”

Inaninstant,herfacefellandalookoffearsweptoverher.

“Ofcoursenot.Whywouldyou—”

Ireachedintomysuitcoatpocketandpulledoutthearticle.

“Becauseofthis!”

Shetookitfrommeandbegantoreadit.

“AndyouthinkIwastheonewhotoldhim?”

“Icertainlyknowmyteamwouldneverdoit.”Iplacedmyhandsinmypocket.

“Youtalkedtohim,Kate.Don’tyoufinditoddthatIwouldreceivethisarticlea

weekafterwereturnedfromHawaii?Afteryoutalkedtohim!”Ipointedather.

“Gabriel,”shespokeinapanickedvoiceasshewalkedtowardsme.

Ibackedawayandputmyhandsup.“Don’t,Kate.Justadmityoutoldhim.”

“Ididn’ttellhimanything.IpromisedyouIwouldn’tsayawordtoanyone.”

“Thenhowthefuckdidhefindout?!”Ishouted.

“Stopyellingatme!”sheshoutedback.“Idon’tknow.Butitwasn’tfromme!”

“Didhemakeyousomesweetofferyoucouldn’trefuse?WhatafuckingfoolI

wasfortrustingsomeonelikeyou!”

Tearsstreameddownherface.

“That was my father’s dream! We were all set to announce it in a couple of

months,andnow,Marcel’scompanygottoitfirst.Andwhatacoincidence,theirs

happenstobeinLasVegas.”

“Gabriel,please.Ididn’ttellhim,”shebegged.

Apartofmewantedtobelieveherbutbecauseofherpast,Iquicklyshutthat

down.Iturnedmyback,forIcouldn’tfaceheranymore.

“Getout,”Ifirmlyspoke.

“What?”

“Packyourstuffandgetoutofmyhouse.I’mdonewithyou.”

“Gabriel,no,”shecriedasshegrabbedmyarm.

Ijerkedawaysohardshefelltotheground.

“Don’tcomenearme.Youplayedmeforafoolforthelasttime.I’mgoingout,

andwhenIgetback,youbetterbegone.Gobacktoyourapartmentandbackto

yourconartistlife.Ibetterneverseeyouagain.”

ChapterThirty-One

Kate

Hewalkedoutanditfeltlikethewindhadbeenknockedoutofme.TheairI

triedtobreathewassoconstricted,IfeltlikeIwassuffocating.Isatonthefloor,

myarmsaroundmylegs,rockingbackandforthwhilethetearsfellfrommyeyes.

This wasn’t happening. The pain I felt inside was unbearable and I began to

hyperventilate.Ididn’tknowwhattodo.Itfeltlikemyhearthadbeentorninhalf.

After a while, as I tried to calm down, I picked myself up from the floor and

stumbled up the stairs, one by one, in a daze, until I reached the bedroom and

packedallmythings.OnceIwasfinished,Itookthephonehegavemeoutofmy

purseandsetitdownonhisbed.Ihadthoughtaboutwritinghimaletterofsome

sort,tellinghimonceagainthatIdidn’tsayawordtoMarceloranyoneabouthis

plans.ButthenIthoughtitwouldn’thavematteredanyway.Henevertrustedme

likehesaidhedid.Waybackinthedarkcornersofhismindwasalwaysdoubt.

Taking the elevator down to the foyer, I dragged my suitcase behind me in one

hand,myguitarintheother,andoutthefrontdoor.

WhenIreachedmyapartment,Iunlockedthedoorandsteppedinside.Turning

onthelights,IstoodinthesmallfoyerandlookedaroundtheplaceIdidn’twant

tobein.IwantedtobebackatGabriel’stownhouse,sittingonthecouch,bythe

fire, snuggled up against him while we watched TV. This sadness that

overwhelmed me was too much and I didn’t know how to make it stop, so I

drownedmysorrowswithabottleofwine.

****

Gabriel

IhadCarlparkthelimoaroundthecorner,butjustfarenoughawaysoIcould

watchherassheleft.ThefeelingofbetrayalIfeltkilledmeinside.Shesaidshe

didn’t do it, and as much as I wanted to believe her, I couldn’t. Once she left, I

walkedupthestepsandthroughthefrontdoor.Iwentuptomybedroomandfound

herphonelyingonthebed.Ipickeditup,andinarage,Ithrewitagainstthewall.

Pulling my phone from my pocket, I called my brother Caleb, who was in

Californiarecordinghisalbum.

“Hey,bro.CanIcallyoubackinafew?We’rejustwrappingup.”

“Sure.Domeafavorandfacetimeme.Ineedtotalktoyou.”

“Areyouokay?”heasked.

“No,I’mnot.”Iranmyhanddownmyface.

“Didsomethinghappen?IsMomokay?”

“She’sfine.It’saboutKate.”

“Shit.Okay.Givemeabouttenminutes.”

Iheadeddownstairs,pouredmyselfabourbon,downedit,andtookthebottle

with me to my office. Opening my laptop, I waited for Caleb’s call. A few

momentslater,myphonerangandIexplainedwhathappened.

“Gabriel,areyouonehundredpercentsureKatewastheonewholeakedit?”

“It’sagutfeeling,Caleb.Nooneonmydesignteamwouldbetraymelikethat.

There’stoomuchatstakeforthem.”

“ThenwhatwouldKate’sreasoningbe?”

“AllIknowistheytalkedquiteabitinHawaiianditwasafterItoldherabout

myplans.”

“Sowhatiftheytalked?Marcelwilltalktoanythingwithlonglegsjusttogeta

goodfuckoutofthem.Itdoesn’tmeanshetoldhimanything.”

“Anditdoesn’tmeanshedidn’t.”

“Ithoughtyouwereoveryourtrustissueswithher,”hespoke.

“Iguessnot.Sheplayedme.Shegainedmytrust,onlytostabmeintheback.”

“Bro, be careful with your words. You don’t know that and you don’t have

proof.”

“HerpastisalltheproofIneed.I’msorryIevergotinvolvedwithher.God,

I’msofuckingstupid.”

“Calm the fuck down, Gabriel. You’re not stupid. You just told me the other

dayhowinlovewithheryouwereandhowshemakesyourlifesomuchbetter.

Nowthesecondsomethinggoeswrong,youautomaticallyjumptotheconclusion

shedidit.Unlessyouhaveproof,it’snotvalid.”

“ThenI’llgetproof.”Ipointedatthecomputerscreen.

“How?”

“I don’t know yet, but I will. Maybe she didn’t do it on purpose or maybe it

wasjustamention,butIspecificallytoldhernottosayawordtoanyone.”

Heletoutalongsigh.

“I’msorrythishappened.Ireallyam.ButIcan’tsidewithyouonthisunless

youknowforsure.Andalso,whyareyoulettingDad’sdreamdestroyyourlife?”

“I’mnot.”Ileanedbackinmychair.

“You are. You’re still catering to him, even after he’s dead. The man was an

emotional abuser and you know it. And even though he’s buried deep in the

ground,he’sstillcontrollingyou.”

“You’rebeingridiculous,Caleb.”

“No,Gabriel.”Hepointedatme.“Youare.Asiftherearen’tenoughbillion-

dollarQuinnHotelsandResortsintheworldalready.Whyisthisonesofucking

importanttoyou?I’lltellyouwhy.Becauseyou’restilltryingtomakehimproud.

Justlikeyou’vedoneyourentirelife.Followinghimaroundlikealostpuppy.I

wastheonlyoneinthefamilywhohadenoughgutstostanduptohimandtellhim

exactlyhowIfelt.Lookatme,Gabriel.I’mhappyandyou’remiserable.”

“Nowyou’rejustbeingadick.”

“Listen,bro,I’msorrythatyou’regoingthroughthis.YouknowIalwayshave

yourback,butinthiscase,I’mnotsosure.Ihavetogo.Tomorrowisourlastday

of recording and then we’re heading back to New York. I’ll call you when I get

in.”

“Haveasafeflight,”IspokeasIhittheendbutton.

ChapterThirty-Two

Kate

AshardasItriedtoopenmyswolleneyes,Icouldn’t.Theyweresealedshut

fromallthecryingIdidlastnightplusthepoundingofmyheadfromthebottleof

wineIdrank.Ilaythere,stilldistraughtandindisbeliefthatinasplitsecond,my

entireworldcrumbledbeforeme.Tearsstartedtocreepoutfromthecornerofmy

closedeyes.Ididn’tthinkIhadanytearsleft,buteverytimeIthoughtabouthim,

theystartedbackupagain.IfeltparalyzedandIcouldn’tbringmyselftogetoutof

bed.

Three days later, after hibernating in my bed, only getting up to use the

bathroomandgetsomethingtodrink,Ifinallymanagedtotakeabath.AsIsunk

downintotherose-scentedbubbles,Irecalledmylastvisitwithmyfather.

“Daddy,there’ssomethingIneedtotellyou,”IspokeasIlookeddownfrom

theembarrassmentoflyingtohimthepastfewyears.

“Whatisit,babygirl?”heaskedwithconcern.

Itoldhimeverything,andhiseyesfilledwithtears.

“Mygod,Kate.Ihavenowordsforwhatyoujusttoldme.I’msosorry.”He

slowlyshookhisheadasthetearssteadilyrandownhisface.

We talked for as long as we could until our time was up. Before I left, he

huggedmetight.

“Go live a normal life, baby. That’s all I want for you. I’m fine in here,” he

whisperedinmyear.

ItoldhimallaboutGabrielandhowhappyIwas.NowI’dhavetogoandtell

myfatherwhathappened.Ishouldhaveexpectedit.Lifewastoogoodandafter

everything I had done, I didn’t deserve to be happy. This was karma paying me

backforallthosemenIconned.Iclimbedoutofthebathtubandslippedintomy

robe. I wasn’t hungry, but I knew I had to eat something since I hadn’t eaten in

three days. I opened my freezer, since it was about the only thing that had some

typeoffoodinitandpulledoutafrozenpizza.AsIpreheatedtheoven,thebuzzer

tomyapartmentrang.Whothehellwouldbevisitingme?Thethoughtthatitwas

Gabrielmademepanic.

“CanIhelpyou?”Iaskedovertheintercom.

“Kate,it’sme,Caleb.CanIcomeup?”

“Caleb?Sure.I’llbuzzyouin.”

Iopenedthedoorinconfusionandwatchedforhimtogetofftheelevator.

“Hey.”Hegavemeasympatheticsmile.“Howareyou?”

“Not good. Come on in. I’m making a frozen pizza. Would you care to join

me?”

“Umm.Nothanks.Whenwasthelasttimeyouate?”

“Idon’tknow.Threedaysago,”Ireplied.

Hepulledhisphonefromhispocket.

“Putthataway.I’mgoingtoorderusarealpizza.”Hesmiled.

“Caleb,I—”

“Noarguments.I’morderingitandyou’regoingtoeatit.”

Heplacedthepizzaorderandthenfollowedmetothecouch.

“HowdidyouknowwhereIlive?”Iasked.

“IhadCarldrivemeover.”

“AndGabrielwasokaywiththat?”

“Mybrotherdoesn’tknow,andhedoesn’tneedto.”

“Hewouldn’tbeveryhappyknowingyou’rehere.”

“Idon’tcare.It’snoneofhisbusinesswhomIchoosetovisit.”

IgavehimasmallsmileasIplayedwiththetietomyrobe.

“Kate,Iwantyoutolookmestraightintheeyeandtellmethetruth,”hespoke

withseriousness.

“IsweartoyouthatIdidn’ttellMarceloranyoneaboutGabriel’splans.”

Hereachedoverandplacedhishandonmine.

“Ibelieveyou.”

“Why?Whywouldyou?”

“BecauseIknowyouwouldn’tdoanythingtohurtGabriel.Youlovehimand

thatrighttheresaysenough.”

Thebuzzerrangandinterruptedourconversation.

“Thatmustbethepizzaguy.I’llberightback,”Calebspokeashegotupfrom

thecouchandlefttheapartment.

I took a couple of plates out of the cabinet and set them on the table. Caleb

sayinghebelievedmemeantalot.I’djustwishedGabrielwould’ve.Afterafew

moments,Calebwalkedbackintomyapartmentwiththepizza.Takingitoverto

thetable,hesetitdownandopenedthelid.

“Smellsdelicious,”Ispoke.

“Itsuredoes.I’mstarving.”Hesmiled.

“CanIaskyousomething?”IspokeasIgrabbedasliceofpizzaandputiton

myplate.

“Youcanaskmeanything,”hereplied.

IaskedthequestionIwasn’tsureIwantedtoknowtheanswerto.

“HowisGabriel?”

“Upset.Amess.Pissedoffattheworld.”

“I’msorry.”Ilookeddown.

“Don’tbe,Kate.It’snotyourfault.Eventhoughmybrotherthinksitis,it’snot.

He had no right to accuse you without proof. If you say you didn’t do it, that

shouldhavebeengoodenoughforhim.”

“Heneverhasandneverwilltrustme.”

“Thenthat’shisproblem,isn’tit?Healwaysfollowedwhatourfathersaidand

did. If he told Gabriel to jump off a building, he probably would have. He was

alwayssoworriedaboutdisappointinghim.Me,ontheotherhand,”hesmiled,“I

didn’tcare.ThisismylifeandIwasgoingtodowhatmademethehappiest.”

“You don’t think Gabriel’s happy running the company?” I asked as I took a

biteofmypizza.

“Heisinhisownway.Hewasborntorunabusiness.He’sextremelysmart

andveryskillful.Thedigitalhotelisn’tthatbigofadeal.Heonlywantstodoitto

please our father, even though he’s buried six feet into the ground. You want to

knowwhatIthink?”

“What?”

“IthinkitwassomeoneinhiscompanywhospilledthebeanstoMarcel.”

“Butwhywouldanyonedothat?”Iasked.

“I don’t know. Gabriel has known those people for years and he trusts them.

Thethoughtthatanyonewouldbetrayhimisludicroustohim.Unfortunately,you

gotcaughtinthecrossfire.HaveyouevermetThaddeus?”

“Notformally.HesaidhellotomeonceatGabriel’soffice.ButI’veheardhim

mentionhisnameafewtimes.”

“I never trusted that guy. Something was always off about him. But Gabriel

considers him a friend and a valuable asset to the company. He’s his right hand

man even though I know if the opportunity arose, he’d stab my brother in the

back.”

Thoughtswereflyingthroughmyheadlikeaswarmofbirdsflyingsouthforthe

winter.

“TellmemoreaboutThaddeus.”

“Why?”heaskedwithanarrowedeye.

Amomentofsilencefilledtheair.

“Kate,no.”

“What?”Itookanothersliceofpizzafromthebox.

“Iknowwhatyou’rethinkinganditwon’twork.”

“Itwill.MaybehewastheonewhotoldMarcel.”

“Justleaveitalone.Gabrielfuckedupwithyouinabigway.Hemadehisbed,

nowlethimlieinit.”

“Theonlythingthat’simportanttomeisprovingthatIdidn’tdoanything.”

“Andhowareyougoingtodothat?”

“I don’t know yet. But the one thing I do know is that someone in that office

betrayedGabrielandiftheydiditonce,they’lldoitagain.”

“Whydoyoucaresomuch?”Calebasked.

“BecauseI’mnotbeingblamedforsomethingIdidn’tdo.I’vedonealotofshit

inmylifeandI’mthefirstonetoadmitit.Butthis.Havingmywholeliferipped

apartforsomethingIdidn’tdoisunacceptable.”

“Okay.Solet’ssayyouproveitwassomeoneGabrielworkswith?Thenwhat?

Areyouhopingtogethimback?”

“No.WhatGabrielandIhadisoverwithforgood.He’sproventhathecould

never trust me. The things he said were horrible and I don’t think I could ever

forgive him for that. I need a fresh start. A place where nobody knows Kate

Harper.AplacewhereIcanstartanewlife.”

“Asacon?”Hisbrowarched.

Asmallsmilecrossedmylips.

“No.Thosedaysareover.”

“Anyideawhatyouwanttodowithyourlife?”heasked.

“Notreally.ButIdoknowthatIneedtogetajobwhereveritisI’mmoving

to.”

“Kate, don’t leave New York because of Gabriel. There are so many

opportunitieshereforyou.”

“Likewhat?”

“Sinceyouliketopaint,getajobatanartgallery.”

“Icanpaint,butIdon’tknowthatmuchaboutart.”Ismiled.“Plus,it’llbetoo

hardtobeinthesamecityashim.It’sjustbestthatImovesomewhereelseand

makeafreshstartformyself.”

“Whataboutyourdad?”

“He’llwantmetodowhat’sbestforme,andI’llstillvisithim.”

Calebreachedoverandtookholdofmyhand.

“Dowhatmakesyouhappy,butdon’tbeastrangertome.Okay?”

“Okay.”Ismiled.

“Ibettergetgoing.”Hegotupfromhisseat.

“Thankyouforthepizza,Caleb,andthanksforcheckingonme.”

“No problem, Kate. You have a lot of talents. Choose one and follow your

heart.”HekissedmycheekasIwalkedhimtothedoor.

Assoonasheleft,Iputmyplanintomotion.Grabbingmylaptop,Ididsome

googlingandfoundoutwhoThaddeusWilsonwas.Ifhewasn’ttheonewhotold

Marcelaboutthehotel,thenIwouldhavetogoafterMarcelmyself.

ChapterThirty-Three

Gabriel

I thought about her day and night. I didn’t want to, but it seemed everything I

sawremindedmeofher.Itriedsohardtogetheroutofmyheadanditdroveme

crazy.Apartofmemissedher.Thefunwehad,thelaughsweshared,andtheside

ofhershefinallyletout.Butshewouldalwayshavethatotherside.Thesidethat

manipulated people to get what she wanted. The side that lied over and over

again.

“Gabriel,”MarcelspokeashetookaseatacrossfrommeatDaniel,whereI

invitedhimfordinner.”

“Marcel.”

“Iwaspleasantlysurprisedtohavereceivedaphonecallfromyou,letalone

haveyouinvitemetodinner.”

“Ineverdidthankyouforcomingtothegrandopeningofmyhotel.”

“You’rewelcome.”Hegrinned.“Itwasmypleasure.IwasalreadyinHawaii,

soIthoughtI’dstopbyandshowsomesupport.”

“Really?”Iarchedmybrow.“Ourfamilieshavehatedeachotherforyears.”

He shrugged. “Times have changed. We now run our families’ companies.

Maybe it’s time to put an end to what our grandfathers started. This war,” he

wavedhishand, “isridiculous.We bothrunvery successfulcompanies.There’s

noneedforanymorehostility,Gabriel.Iwouldliketothinkthatthetwoofuscan

startnewtraditionsforourfuturefamilies.”

I wanted to reach across the table and grab him by his throat. There was no

wayinhellthatwouldeverhappen.

“Maybeyou’reright,”Ilied.

“Nowtellmetherealreasonyouwantedtomeetfordinner,”hespoke.

IsighedasItookadrinkofmybourbon.

“I’mcuriousaboutthisnewhotelyou’rebuildinginVegas.”

“Ah,thedigitalhotel.Whataboutit?MyfatherandIareveryexcitedtobreak

ground.”

“It’sagreatidea.Wheredidyougetitfrom?”

Hestaredatmewhilehepickeduphisdrinkandswirledtheicecubesinhis

glass.

“Whatisthisreallyabout,Gabriel?”

“Youknowwhatit’sabout!”IspokethroughgrittedteethasIleanedacrossthe

table. “Building a hotel like that had been my father’s dream for the past ten

years.”

“And?”heasked.“Doyouthinkyou’retheonlyhotelchainthathasthoughtof

this?Letmeaskyou,Gabriel,whydoyouthinkyourcompanyissospecial?Do

youhonestlythinkthatyou’retheonlyonewhowantstobuildhotelsofthefuture?

Many more companies will be jumping on this. Marriott, Hilton, Mandarin,

Royals,Westin;theyallwill.”Hegotupfromhisseat.“Competitionisfierce,my

friend,andwealldowhatwehavetoinordertogettothetop.I’mafraidImust

gonow.”Hestartedtowalkaway,butbeforehedid,heturnedandlookedatme.

“By the way, how is your friend Kate doing? I thoroughly enjoyed our

conversationsinHawaii.Iwashopingtotakeheroutsometime.Havehergive

meacall.”Hewinkedwithasmileashewalkedaway.

Isatthere,mybloodpressureatanall-timehigh.Ibegantosweatwithanger

andittookeverythingIhadnottogoafterhimandbeattheshitoutofhim.WhenI

got home, I pulled the article out and began reading it over again. Marcel had

explainedwhathishotelwouldconsistof,wordforwordwhatItoldKate.

“Fuck!”Ithrewthearticleonmydesk.

****

Kate

I decided to forget about Thaddeus and go straight to the source: Marcel. He

was a slime ball, and just by talking to him the brief time I did in Hawaii, I

alreadyhadafeelonhowtohandlehim.IdidasmuchresearchasIcould.Ifound

aninterestingarticlethatwaspublishedaboutsixmonthsagoinamagazinewhere

hewasinterviewedasoneofNewYork’smosteligiblebachelors.

Interviewer: “You’re handsome and wealthy. I’m surprised you’re still

single. Do you like the bachelor life or is it you just haven’t found the right

womanyettosettledownwith?”

Marcel:“ThebachelorlifeisgoodandI’menjoyingitverymuch.Menlike

me need to be careful about the women we date. A lot of them are only

interested in the money we have to offer. But I’m not giving up hope. I come

fromabackgroundwherefamilyisveryimportantandIknowtherightwoman

isoutthereforme.Ijusthaven’tmetheryet.”

Interviewer:“Describetheperfectwomaninyoureyes.”

Marcel: “She must be intelligent and family oriented. Well-educated and

knowswhatshewants.Shemusthaveagoodheartandabeautifulsoul.”

Interviewer: “How about on the outside? Is there a certain type of woman

thatcatchesyoureye?Describeyourdreamgirl.”

Marcel: “If you’re talking about looks, yes, there is. Since I am six foot

three,IamattractedtotallerwomenandIlovelonghair,preferablybrunettes

withdeepgreeneyes.Eyesthatresembleanemerald.Ilikeawomanwhotakes

greatprideinthewayshelooksanddresses.”

Interviewer:“Well,IguessIcancountmyselfoutsinceI’maredhead.”

Marcel: “You’re still a beautiful woman, and judging by that gorgeous

diamondringyou’rewearingonyourlefthand,you’realsomarried.”

Okay. He liked tall brunettes with dark green eyes. Perfect. The article also

talkedabouthishobbiesandhowhelikedtotakehiscoffee.Twocreamsandone

teaspoonofsugar.Check.Helovedchildrenandwantedatleastfour.Ishuddered

atthethought.Maybeoneortwo,butforme,fourwastoomany.Helovedlong

walks, chess, and listening to classical music. Chess was good. I knew how to

playandIwasgoodatit.Myfatherlovedtoplayandtaughtme.Healwayssaid

chesswastheperfectgametokeepyourmindsharpandalwaysthinking.Strategy

wasthekey,notonlyinthegame,butinlife.Tomorrow,Iwouldstarttheprocess.

Followhim,watchhim,gethimtonoticemeandthenstartmydeception.Ineeded

todothisonelasttime.NotonlyforGabriel,butforme.OnceIfoundwhatIwas

lookingfor,itwouldbetimetomoveonandstartmylifeover.

ChapterThirty-Four

Kate

I spent a week watching Marcel. I followed him to a diner in Harlem one

afternoon.He walked inand took aseat, and I madesure I satat a table behind

him.Helookedatmebutdidn’tgiveasecondlook.Iwasn’thistype,forIwas

dressedinrippedjeans,anoversizedsweatshirt,apairofdirtytennisshoes,andI

had on my short platinum wig with a pair of brown contacts in my eyes and a

makeup-less face. I would admit that I wouldn’t even give me a second look. I

founditoddhewouldchoosethishole-in-the-walldinerinHarlem.Itwasn’this

style.Hekeptlookingatthedoorasifhewaswaitingtomeetsomeone.Holding

themenuup,coveringmyface,Ipeeredoveritwhenthebelloverthedinerdoor

chimedandamandressedinanavybluebusinesssuitwalkedinandtooktheseat

acrossfromhim.AmanwhomI’dseenbefore.ThaddeusWilson.

“You’relate,Thaddeus,”Marcelspokeashelookedathiswatch.

“Sorry,butIwasinameetingthattooklongerthanexpected.”

“What’swiththissecretlunch?ItoldyouthatIwouldbeincontactwithyou

oncethingsweresquaredaway,”Marcelspoke.

“Anditseemstobetakinglongerthanexpected.Igaveyouwhatyouaskedfor

sixmonthsago,Marcel.”

“I know, and I’m grateful. Patience, my friend. My lawyer is drawing up the

paperworkaswespeak.Itshouldonlybeamatteroftime.”

“Ihopeso.IwanttogettoParisassoonaspossible.”

“Ifwe’redonehere,”Marcelspoke,“Ineedtogetgoing.I’mhostingacocktail

partyatThePlazaHotelatseveno’clock.”

“We’redone,”Thaddeusspoke.

AsMarcelwalkedout,Thaddeusorderedacupofcoffeeandasliceofcherry

pie. Paris? What did Marcel offer him in exchange for information? I needed to

findoutandIwouldputmyplanintomotiontonightatThePlaza.Isatthere,my

hands wrapped around the white coffee cup, staring at Thaddeus. His eyes

divertedtomeandthenquicklylookedaway.Imadehimuncomfortable.Icould

tell. He shifted in his seat as he looked at me again. He didn’t like that the

unattractivegirlwasstaringathim.Hereachedinsidehissuitcoat,pulledouthis

wallet,andremovedwhatlookedlikeabusinesscardfromit.Placinghiswallet

backinhispocket,hepickeduphisphoneandmadeaphonecall.Ilookedoverat

myoversizedblackhobo-stylepurseandthenbackathim.Thewaitresswalked

overandplacedhiscoffeeandcherrypiedowninfrontofhim.Afterendinghis

call,hepickeduphisfork.Isummonedthewaitressforthebillandleftsomecash

onthetable.Pickingupmypurseandthrowingitovermyshoulder,Igotupfrom

myseatandintentionallydroppedmyphonebyhistable.Iknewhewouldn’tbea

gentlemanandpickitupformesinceIwasaneyesoretohim.Afterdroppingit

onthefloor,Ibentdownandmybagswungacrosshistable,knockinghiscoffee

cupover.

“Whatthefuck!”heexclaimedashepushedhimselfandhischairback.

“Ohmygod!Iamsosorry,”IspokeasIlookedupathim.

“Youdamnklutz!”heshouted.

ThewaitresshurriedoverwithatowelasIgotupandgrabbedashitloadof

napkinsthatweresittingonthetable.

“Ohno.Yoursuit,”IspokeasIpattedhissuitcoatwiththenapkins.

Hegrabbedthemfrommyhand.

“Justgo!”heshouted.

Ipulledmywalletfrommypurseandthrewdownahundred-dollarbill.

“This should cover your dry cleaning bill as well as your coffee and pie.

Accidentshappen,sir,andyoudon’thavetobesorude.”

Helookedatthehundredonthetableandthenupatme.

“Ihopeyouhaveabetterday.”Iwalkedaway.

Once I hit the pavement and walked down the street, I reached into my purse

and pulled out his black leather Bottega Veneta two-fold wallet with a smile on

myface.HewasonemanIdidn’tfeelguiltyrippingoff.Checkingouthowmuch

cash he had, I counted six hundred fifty dollars. Before heading back to my

apartment,Istoppedatthesalonandgotamani/pediandaspraytan,compliments

ofThaddeusWilson.

WhenIgothome,Ipulledablacksuitcasefromthehallcloset,tookittomy

room, and placed it on my bed. Opening it, I looked at all the face pieces I had

used over the years. Different noses, teeth, lips, and colored contacts. Walking

overtomycloset,Ireachedupandtookdownmylongwavybrunette-coloredwig

with the subtle blonde highlights. After showering, I put on my face, popped the

emerald-green-colored contacts into my eyes, and carefully pulled on my wig. I

slippedintoablack,off-the-shoulder,midi-length,form-fitteddress.Itwasvery

plain,butelegant.EspeciallyafterIdresseditupwithjewelryandblackstiletto

heels.WhenIpurchasedthedress,itwaslabeledas“LadyLuck,”andluckwas

whatIneededtonight.AsIstoodinthefull-lengthmirror,Ididn’tevenrecognize

me.Mynosewasdifferentandmylipswerefuller.

WhenIreachedThePlaza,Iwasn’tsureinwhichrestaurantMarcelwouldbe

hostinghiscocktailparty.IfIhadtoguess,andknowinghim,itwouldbeatthe

PalmCourt.Iwasright,becausewhenIwalkedin,Isawhimwalkingfromtable

to table, mingling with guests. Luckily, there were a few seats still open at the

roundbar.Takingmyseat,Iaskedthebartenderforacosmopolitan.Isattherefor

overanhour,watchinghimashestolesmallglancesmyway.Ihadhisattention

andsawhimstarttowalkmyway.

“Areyouherealone?”heaskedwithasmileashewalkedovertome.

“Iwassupposedtobeonadate,butIguessIgotstoodup,”Irepliedwitha

Frenchaccent.

“You’reFrench?”heaskedwithahintofexcitement.

“Oui.”Ismiled.“Andsoareyou.”

“Why on earth would anyone stand up a beautiful woman like yourself? His

lossismygain.MayI?”Hishandgesturedtothestoolnexttome.

“Youmay.”IsmiledasItracedtherimofmyglass.

Instantly, we hit it off. Or should I say, he did. We talked about France and I

fabricated this story about how I was born in Marseille and my parents and I

movedtotheUnitedStateswhenIwaseight.HeaskedwhatIdidforaliving.I

toldhimIwasafreelanceartistandworkedfromhome.Heseemedimpressed.I

mentioned that I wanted to start an online business. He told me he could help. I

pickedhisbrainforideas,madehimfeelspecial.Wetalkedabouthiscompany.I

satandlistened,neverbreakingoureyecontact.Hewashooked.

I looked at my watch. It was getting late. He ditched his cocktail party and

spenttherestoftheeveningtalkingtome.

“Ibettergetgoing.It’sgettinglate.”Ismiled.

“I understand, but I’m afraid I can’t let you leave without getting your phone

numberfirst.”

“Handmeyourphone.”AsmirkcrossedmylipsasIheldoutmyhand.

He pulled his phone from his pocket, handed it to me, and I put in my new

number.

“There.Nowyouhavemynumber.Iwillbeexpectingacallortextfromyou

verysoon.”Igrinned.

“Believeme,Camille,youwillbehearingfromme.”

“ThankyouforawonderfuleveningandmakingmeforgetthatIwasstoodup.”

“Itwasmypleasure.CanItakeyouhome?”

Iplacedmyhandonhischest.

“Thankyou,butIcangethomejustfine.Haveagoodnight,Marcel.”

“Youtoo.”

IletoutadeepbreathasasmilecrossedmylipsandIleftThePlaza.

WhenIarrivedhome,Ikickedoffmyshoes,wentintothebathroomtotakeoff

my disguise, and climbed into bed. As I lay there, thoughts of Gabriel washed

overme.ThehurtandthepainItriedtoburycreptupinsideme.Ihadspentmy

entire life feeling lonely, but this was the loneliest I’d ever felt. As I closed my

eyes, my phone dinged. I reached over and took it from my nightstand, and saw

therewasatextmessagefromMarcel.

“I can’t stop thinking about you and would love to take you to dinner

tomorrowevening.”

“Iwouldlovetohavedinnerwithyou.”

“Excellent.Icanpickyouuparoundseveno’clock.”

“NametherestaurantandI’llmeetyouthere.Ihaveameetingwithaclient

atsixbutitwon’ttakelong.”

“Very well. I’ll text you the place and the address tomorrow. Good night,

Camille.”

“Goodnight,Marcel.”

NowIhadtofigureoutawaytogetoutofsleepingwithhim,becauseaman

likehimwasn’tgoingtobepatientverylong.IneededtofindouttheinformationI

waslookingforquickly.Mytimelimitwasoneweek.ThefasterIgotthisdone,

thesoonerIcouldmove.

Thenextmorning,Iwentout,boughtalabelgun,andmadeanewlabelwith

the name “Chamberlin” on it to replace my name under my apartment number

outsidethedoorsofthebuilding.TherewasnouselyingtoMarcelaboutwhereI

livedbecauseonceallwassaidanddone,I’dbegoneanyway.

****

FiveDaysLater…

ThingswithMarcelwerehittinganall-timehigh.Hewasinlovewithmeand

sentmeabouquetoffreshroseseverydaysincethenightwemet.Wespentevery

eveningtogether.GoingonwalksthroughCentralPark,havingdinneratthefinest

restaurants, and having drinks back at his penthouse while we played chess. My

period.Thatwasmyexcusefornotjumpingintobedwithhim.Thefirstcoupleof

dates, I explained that I wasn’t that kind of girl and I needed to truly know

someone before I slept with them. He understood and respected me for it. Date

three, I played it out as if I was ready. I even made the first move. As we were

makingoutandIwastryingnottogag,Iexcusedmyselftotherestroomand,when

Icameout,ItoldhimthatIhadjuststartedmyperiod.Iexplainedthatitcameout

ofnowhereandhowbaditwasandIneededtogohome.Hewasdisappointed,

but I promised to make it up to him. Date four was spent at my place, having

dinnerinandtalkingforhours.IknewmorethanIwantedtoabouthim.Ididn’t

care. He repulsed me as much as I repulsed myself because what he did wasn’t

any different from all the things I had done. This was my chance to make things

rightinmylife.TosortofmakeupforallthebadthingsIhaddonetothemenI

conned.TomakethingsrightforGabriel.Eventhoughthetwoofuscouldnever

bewhatweoncewere,Icouldn’tstandbyandletMarcelriphimoff.Intheend,

doingthiswastherightthingforbothofus.

ChapterThirty-Five

Kate

Datefive.TheFriendsofNewYorkersforChildrenAnnualBall,whichwas

held at the Mandarin Oriental. The same hotel where Gabriel first saw me after

wepartedwaysatJFK.Iputonmyfaceandmywig,andslippedintoaRoland

Mouret strapless two-tone peplum evening gown in cream and black. The gown

wasgorgeouswithitsdouble-facesilksatin,asymmetricneckline,fittedbodice,

andpeplumwaist.ComplimentsofMr.ThaddeusWilsonandtheonecreditcard

heforgottocancel.

“Youlookabsolutelystunning.”Marcelsmiledandkissedmycheek.

“Thankyou.Sodoyou.”Iflashedmysexysmile.

Hetookholdofmyhand,ledmetohislimo,anditwasofftotheballwewent.

The Mandarin was filled with socialites. We mingled amongst the wealthy and

Marcelintroducedmeashisgirlfriend.ShitwasgettingrealandIneededtomove

fast.Weheadedtothebarafterhavingaglassofchampagneuponwalkingthrough

the doors and Marcel ordered me a cosmopolitan. As I waited for my drink, I

lookedaroundtheroomandmyeyeslockedwithGabriel’s.Fuck!Fuck!Fuck! I

didn’t expect to see him here. My heart started racing and, suddenly, I became

nervous.Ineededtoholdmycomposure,forIcouldn’triskhimfindingoutitwas

me.Shit.He’dknow.AslongasIdidn’tsmile,I’dbeokay.Ithought.Hewalked

awayfromthebar.IletoutthedeepbreathIwasholding.Marcelturnedaround

andhandedmemydrink.

“Onecosmopolitanforthemostbeautifulwomanintheroom.”Hesmiled.

“Thankyou.”

HeheldouthisarmandIplacedminearounditaswewalkedtoourtableand

tookaseat.AsIsippedmycosmopolitan,Gabrielsatdownacrossfromus.

“Lookslikewe’retablemates,”hespoketoMarcel.

“Ah, very good. Gabriel, I’d like you to meet my girlfriend, Camille

Chamberlin. Camille, this is a friend of mine, Gabriel Quinn. He’s the CEO of

QuinnHotels.”

Shit.Shit.Shit.Icoulddothis.

“Nicetomeetyou,Gabriel,”IspokewithoutasmileinmyFrenchaccentasI

extendedmyhand.

Placinghishandinmine,helookeddownandthenbackupatme.Hiseyestold

mehefeltsomething.

“Thepleasureisallmine,Camille.”Hebroughtmyhanduptohislips.

Jerk.Doeshealwayskissthehandofafemalehemeetsforthefirsttime?

Ipulledmyhandawayandsetitonmylap.Thesensationthatrippedthrough

mybodyashislipstouchedmewastoomuch.AllthewhileheandMarceltalked,

hekeptlookingatme.Hewasalone,whichmademehappybecauseIdidn’tthink

I could bear seeing him with another woman. He turned his attention to me and

beganaskingmeallsortsofquestions.Fuck.Hewassuspicious.Icouldseeitin

hiseyes.

****

Gabriel

Marcel’sgirlfriendwasbeautiful.Toobeautifulforthelikesofhim.Something

about her wasn’t sitting right with me. I couldn’t put my finger on it. A jolt of

lightningsoaredthroughmethemomentItouchedherhand.Justlike—Ibeganto

askherquestions,hopingshe’dslipupsomehowandI’dknowforsure.Thaddeus

walkedoverandtooktheseatnexttomine.MarcelintroducedCamilletohim.I

waitedforhertosmile.Shewouldn’tbecausesheknewifshedid,Iwouldknow

forsureitwasher.Fuck.Ifeltit.TherewasdefinitelyastrongconnectionwhenI

touchedher.Iswallowedhardatthethought.Therehadonlybeenonewomanin

mylifeIfeltthatconnectionwithanditwaswithKate.Ikeptaneyeonherduring

dinner,andeverytimeshelookedatme,shequicklylookedaway.Musicstarted

to play; a variety of jazz and blues. The dance floor opened and Marcel took

Camillebythehandandescortedhertothemiddleoftheballroom.Ileanedback

inmychairandwatchedthemwhileIsippedonmydrink.

“Damn.Marcel’sgirlfriendisfuckinghot,”Thaddeusspoke.

“Shecertainlyisbeautiful.”

“BeautifulandFrench.Whatmorecouldamanaskfor.”Hesmirked.

It was the middle of the song, so I finished off my drink and headed to the

dancefloor.

“MayIcutin?”IaskedMarcel.

“Ofcourse.”Henodded.

I wrapped one arm around her waist and held her other hand in mine. She

staredovermyshoulder.

“You’reaverybeautifulwoman,Camille.”

“Thankyou,”shespoke.

“ToobeautifulforthelikesofMarcel.”

A small smile crossed her plump lips but quickly disappeared once she

realizedwhatshehaddone.ItwasKate.MygriparoundherwaisttightenedasI

pulledherclosertome.

“Whatthehellareyoudoing,Kate?”Iwhisperedinasternvoice.

Notawordescapedhermouth.

“Iaskedyouaquestion.Doyouwantmetocauseascene?BecauseIfucking

will,andthenwhenMarcelcomestoyourrescue,I’llflattenhisscrawnyassright

hereinfrontofeveryone.”

“Really, Gabriel?” she whispered in her normal voice. “Two respectable

CEOsgoingatitinthemiddleofafundraiserforchildren?Thepresswouldhave

afieldday.”

“I’llaskyouonelasttime.Whatareyoudoingwithhim?Wasthisyourplanall

along?Werethetwoofyouincahootsbeforeweevenmet?”

“Ohmygod,no!”shevoicedloudly.

“Shh.Keepitdown.Doyouwanttodrawattentiontous?”

“Leavemealone,Gabriel.Ihaveajobtodo.”

“Ajob?Whatareyourippingofffromhim?Oh,wait.Thatwouldbemyideas

andplansforthehotel.”

Tearsstartedtoforminhereyes.

“You’rewrong.”

“AmI,Kate?BecauseIdon’tthinkIam.”ThesongendedandIletgoofher.“I

wishI’dnevermetyou.Youarenothingbutavilehumanbeing.”Ishookmyhead

asIwalkedaway.

ChapterThirty-Six

Kate

IgulpedasIstoodthere,tryingtoholdbackthetearsthatformedinmyeyes.

“Areyouokay,darling?”Marcelaskedashewalkedovertome.

“Of course.” I smiled. “I’m fine. Just a little lightheaded from the champagne

andcosmos.”

“Wouldyouliketogohome?”

“Ithinkthat’sagoodidea.Ijustreallyneedtoliedown.”

He walked me up to my apartment, and before I opened the door, I told him

goodnight.

“Thankyouforabeautifulevening,Marcel.Ihadalotoffun.”

“You’rewelcome,mydear.”Hestrokedmychinwithhisthumb.“Iwishthat

periodofyourswouldend.”

“Metoo.Itshouldonlybeacoupleofmoredays.”Ibrushedmylipsagainst

his.

“Whatareyourplansfortomorrow?”heasked.

“Iwashopingtogettospendthedaywithyousinceit’sSaturday.”

“Thenyourwishismycommand.Whatshallwedo?”

“It’ssupposedtorainallday,soIwasthinkingwecouldjustspendthedayat

your place. I could cook for you and we could just relax and watch movies.” I

smiled.

“Iwouldlovethat.Ihaven’thadarelaxingdayinmonths.”

“Great. I’ll stop at the store and pick up everything I need and head over

aroundnoon.”

“Maybeyoucouldspendthenightwithme.”Hislipstouchedmine.

“We’llsee.Goodnight,Marcel.Ireallydoneedtoliedown.”

“Goodnight,Camille.”Hekissedmeonelasttime.

I stepped inside my apartment and shut the door. I took in a deep breath as I

placedmyhandsontheisland.Tomorrowhadtobethedaythatwouldendallof

this.IwantedtotellGabrielwhatIwasdoing,butIcouldn’t.Icouldn’triskhim

goingafterMarcelandThaddeuswithoutthephysicalproofIneeded.

Thenextmorning,asIwasgettingreadytoleave,thebuzzertomyapartment

rang.Shit.

“Yes?”Ispokeovertheintercom.

“Letmein,Kate!”Calebsternlyspoke.

Rollingmyeyes,Ibuzzedhimandopenedthedoor.

“Whatthehellareyoudoing?”hespokeasheenteredmyapartment.“Ohmy

god.Lookatyou.Whatthefuck,Kate?”

“I’mguessingyouspoketoyourbrother.”

“Yeah.WehadbreakfastthismorningandIcouldn’tbelievewhathetoldme.I

specificallytoldyounottodothis.”

“No.YousaidnottodothiswithThaddeus.”

“You’recrazy.”Hethrewhishandsupintheair.

“Listentome,Caleb.YouwererightaboutThaddeus.Hewastheonewhotold

Marcelabouttheplansforthehotel,andifI’mright,healsocopiedtheblueprint

andgaveittohim.IamgoingtofindouteverythingtodayandgettheproofIneed

toclearme.”

“Jesus.Howdoyouknowallthis?”

“IfollowedMarceltoadinerinHarlem,wherehemetwithThaddeus.Iwas

sitting at a table behind them and I heard everything. Marcel offered him some

positioninhiscompanyinParisinexchangefortheinformationaboutthehotel.”

“Howareyougoingtogettheproof?”

“Ihaveaplan.Don’tworryaboutme.How’sGabriel?”

“Howdoyouthinkheis?He’sangryandhurt.Hebarelyate.I’veneverseen

him like this. He’s torn up inside as it is, and now that he thinks you were

involvedwithMarcelthewholetime,it’skillinghim.”

“Youdidn’ttellhimwhatIwasdoing,didyou?”

“No.HowthehellcouldI?Ididn’tevenknow.Kate,”hetookholdofmyarm,

“youhavetobecareful.”

“I will. Never underestimate the charm of a beautiful woman.” I smirked. “I

havetogo.I’mspendingthedaywithMarcelandIhavetostopatthestorefirst.”

“Ihopethisworks.”Heshookhishead.

“Itwill.Pleasedon’tsayawordaboutthistoGabriel.”

IstoppedatthestoreandpickedupeverythingIneededtomakeanicedinner

for the two of us. When I reached his penthouse, he immediately took the bags

frommyarms.

“Iwishyouwouldhavecalledmefromthelobby.Iwouldhavebroughtthese

upforyou,”hespokeashekissedmylips.

“You’resweet,butImanagedjustfine.”

He took the groceries into the kitchen. Just as the weatherman predicted, it

rainedalldaylong.Theskywasovercastandtheslightchillintheairmadeita

perfect day to sit in the comfort of a home by the fire, keeping warm while

watching TV. We snuggled on the couch, under a blanket, watched a movie, and

talked.IwasreadytotalkaboutGabrielandgetthisfuckingnightoverwith,soI

reachedinthepocketoftheoversizedhoodieIwaswearingandpressedtheplay

buttonontherecorderIhadhiddeninmypocket.

“Thatmanfromlastnight.GabrielQuinn,”Ispoke.

“Whatabouthim?”

“Isheamajorcompetitionforyou?”

“You’ve never heard of him or his hotel chain?” he asked with a bewildered

lookonhisface.

“Vaguely,” I replied. “To be honest, I don’t really keep up with the hotel

scene.”Ismiled.

“Ah.Isee.Well,toansweryourquestion,yes,heismajorcompetition.Quinn

Hotelsalwayshasbeen.Butthatisallgoingtochangeverysoon.”

“Really?How?”

“It’sasecret,Camille,andoneIcan’tdiscuss.”

IsatupwithadistraughtlookonmyfaceasIstaredathim.

“I thought me and you were a thing? I mean, you did introduce me as your

girlfriend.”

“Weare.ButbusinessissomethingIcannotdiscuss.”

“Youcan’toryouwon’t?”Ispokewithanupsettonetomyvoice.

“Darling,whyareyougettingsoupset?”Hishandstrokedmycheek.

“I’mnot.”Iturnedawayfromhim.“It’sjust—”

“Justwhat?”Hishandgrippedmyshoulder.

ThewordsIhadtospeakmademenauseated.

“It’s just that I love you, but I can’t be involved with someone who keeps

secretsfromme.Businessorpersonal.”

“What?Youloveme?”hespokeinasoftvoice.

Herewego.Timetoupmyactingskills.IturnedandfacedhimasIplacedmy

handonhischeek.

“Yes. I know it sounds crazy, Marcel, because we haven’t known each other

butforaveryshorttime.Ican’texplainit.AllIknowisthatI’minlovewithyou.

Thispastweekhasbeenthebestweekofmylife.”

“Oh,darling.”Hesmiled.“Iloveyoutoo.Iwassmittenfromthedaymyeyes

laidsightonyou.”

“Ifyoulovedme,youwouldn’tkeepsecretsfromme.”Ipouted.

“Idon’twanttokeepsecretsfromyou.”

“Marcel,Iwantarelationshipwithyou,butIneedtotalhonesty.Ilovehearing

aboutyourbusiness.Theexcitementyoureyesshoweverytimeyoutalkaboutit

turnsmeon.”

“Howmuchdoesitturnyouon?”hewhisperedashistonguetraveledacross

myneck.

Ishudderedandnotinthegoodway.

“Somuch.Nowtellmehowyouareknockingthecompetitionrightout.”

“Istolethedigitalhotelideafromhim.Actually,itwasgiventomebyafriend

andco-workerofhis.Youmethimlastnight.ThaddeusWilson.”

“Oh.Scandalous.Tellmemore.”Ibegantounbuttonhisshirt.

“Imadehimanofferhecouldn’trefuseandhehandedtheplansrightoverto

me.Igavethemtomypeopleandnow,we’rebuildingit.”

“You’re such a badass.” I smiled. “This calls for a celebration. You sit right

herewhileIgopourusaglassofthewineIbrought.”

“Icandoit,darling.”

“No.No.”Iplacedmyhandonhishardcock.“Youstayrighthereandletme,

yourgirlfriend,serveyou,”IspokeinaseductiveFrenchaccent.

“Ifyouinsist.”Hegrinned.

Iwentintothekitchen,placedtherecorderinmypurse,andtookoutthebottle

of sleeping pills I brought with me. After opening the wine, I poured some in a

glass,tookoutthreesleepingpills,openedthecapsules,andpouredthepowderin

hiswine.Ithenpouredmyglass,walkedtothelivingroom,andhandedhimhis.

“Toyournewhotel.”IsmiledasIheldupmyglasstohim.

“Thankyou,darling.”Hetappedhisglassagainstmineandtookasip.

“Thefirstpersontofinishtheirwinegetsaspecialprize.”Igrinned.

“Andwhatwouldthatprizebe?”

“Ifyoufinishyourwinefirst,I’llgiveyouablowjob.IfIfinishmywinefirst,

youhavetocookdinner.”

“Youaren’tserious,”hespoke.

“Oh,I’mveryserious.”IsmiledasIlickedmylips.

“Bottomsup!”Hethrewbackhiswineasifitwaswater.

NowIneededthosepillstoworktheirmagicasquicklyaspossible.

“Look at that. It seems I finished my wine first. Bring that beautiful mouth of

yoursdownhere.”

A sick feeling washed over me. I needed to stall as long as I could. Getting

down on my knees in front of him, I brushed my lips against his, softly and in a

teasingway.Agrowleruptedfromhisthroat.Islidmyfingersdownhisshirtuntil

theyreachedhisbelt.Takinginadeepbreath,Islowlyunbuckledit.Thebulgein

hispantsgrewbiggerasIundidhispants.Lookingupathim,Isawhisheadwas

tiltedbackandhiseyeswereclosed.AsIstrokedhishardcockthroughthefabric

ofhisredsilkunderwear,hebegantosnore.ThankGod!Iquicklystoodup,laid

himdownonthecouch,andcoveredhimwithablanket.

“Sorry,Marcel.Sweetdreams.”

Itookthewineglassesintothekitchen,washedanddriedthem,andthenwent

into his office and sat down behind his desk. I opened his laptop, and the lock

screenappeared.

“Shit.Whatwouldhispasswordbe?”

I opened his desk drawer, looking for something to indicate his password.

Nothing.Damnit.Ineededtodothisquickly.Ishuthislaptopandwalkedback

outtothelivingroom,whereItookhisphonefromthetableandplacedhisfinger

on the button to unlock it. Pulling up his email, I searched it and found a folder

labeled “Digital Hotel.” I opened it and found a shitload of email exchanges

between him and Thaddeus. After sending the folder to my email address, I

deleteditinthesentfile,sethisphonebackonthecoffeetable,grabbedmypurse,

and headed out the door. After hailing a cab back to my apartment, I called a

messengerservicetodelivertherecordertoGabriel.Pullingouthisbusinesscard

thatIhadtakenfromhisdeskdrawerawhileback,Iopenedmylaptop,createda

new email address, and sent the folder from that one to his. I took the two

suitcases I had packed from the closet, my guitar case, and climbed into the cab

thatwaswaitingformeatthecurb.

“Whereto,miss?”thecabdriverasked.

“Trainstation.”

Before I launched my plan on Marcel, I visited my father and told him

everythingthathadhappened.HeunderstoodwhyIhadtoleave,butIpromised

that I would visit him as much as I could. Before we said our goodbyes, he

slippedmeapieceofpaperwiththenumbertoasafedepositbox,whichwasin

myname,attheAtlanticBank.

“The box is in your name, baby girl. Take what’s in there and go,” he

whisperedwithtearsinhiseyes.Lightup,sweetgirl.”Hesmiled.

I sat on the train for the four-hour ride to Mystic, Connecticut, which is

classifiedasavillagewithapopulationof4,025people.Small.Theperfectplace

to start new, at least until I figured out exactly where I wanted to be in life. I

walked from the train station to the Mermaid Inn of Mystic, a cute bed and

breakfastthatIfoundfitting.

“Hello, dear. How may I help you?” the older gray-haired woman behind the

deskasked.

“Hi,Ihaveareservation.”

“YoumustbeKateHarper.”Shesmiled.

“Howdidyouknow?”

“Youareouronlyguest,mydear.Everyoneelsealreadycheckedout.It’sour

slowtimeoftheseason.MynameisRose.”Sheheldoutherslenderhand.

“It’snicetomeetyou,Rose.”Asmilecrossedmylips.

“Whenyoucalledtobookthereservation,yousaidyoudidn’tknowhowlong

you’dneedtheroomfor.Haveyoudecidedyet?”

“Maybeaweekortwo.”

“Delightful.I’llputyoudownforatleasttwoweeks.NowfollowmeandI’ll

show you to your room on the second floor. You can leave your suitcases down

hereandmygrandson,Thomas,willbringthemup.”

Ifollowedherupthestairstothesecondfloor.Sheinsertedthekeyinthelock

andopenedthedoortotheroom.

“ThisisourRoseroom.Namedafterme.”Shesmiled.“Ipersonallydecorated

itmyself.Ihopeitmeetsyourneeds.”

Walking into the room, I set my guitar case down and looked around. It was

beautiful. The walls were painted a rose color and then stenciled with floral

designs.Aqueen-sizebedthathousedaquaintfloralprintcomfortersatonthefar

wall.TherewasasmalldresserwithaTVthatwasmountedonthewallaboveit.

Itwasverycharming.

“There’saminifridgeoverinthatcornerthatisfullystockedwithwaterand

softdrinks,complimentsoftheinn.”

“Thankyou.”

“Therearetowelsinthecabinetoverthereoutsidethebathroom.Ifyouneed

more,justletmeknow.Also,breakfastisservedatninea.m.,somakesureyou

bringyourappetitebecauseweserveafullAmericanbreakfast.”

“Idefinitelywill.”Ismiled.

“I’llletyougetsettled,dear.IfyouhaveanyquestionsaboutMystic,justask.”

As soon as Rose left the room, I walked over to the window and took in the

view of the garden. I felt a sense of peace here. It was quiet and exactly what I

needed. I grabbed a bottle of water from the refrigerator and took it out to the

gazebo,whichwassurroundedbybeautifulflowers.

ChapterThirty-Seven

Gabriel

Iwassittinginmyofficeathomecatchinguponsomeworkwhenthedoorbell

rang.Afewmomentslater,Gracewalkedinandhandedmeasmallpackage.

“Thisjustcameforyoufromamessengerservice,”shespoke.

I took the package from her and opened it. Pulling out what looked like a

recordingdevice,Istudiedit.

“Whatthehellisthis?”

“Maybeit’ssomethingyouneedtolistento.”

IpressedtheplaybuttonandfrozewhenIheardKate’sandMarcel’svoices.

“Damn,she’sgood,”Gracespoke.

AfireeruptedinsidemeandtheairIbreathedbecamerestricted.

“Gabriel,calmdown.”

“Calmdown?”Ishouted.“Youheardwhatwasonthattape.”

Igotupfrommychairandthrewthepaperweightthatwasonmydeskagainst

thewall.

“Thaddeus.”Ishookmyheadindisbelief.“I’mgoingtokillhimand,whenI’m

done,I’mgoingafterMarcel.”

Suddenly,thefactthatKatehadnothingtodowithitinvadedmyhead.

“Oh my god, what have I done,” I slowly spoke as I gripped the arms of the

chairandsatbackdown.

“Shewastellingthetruth,Gabriel,andshewenttogreatlengthstoproveitto

you,”Gracespoke.

Asickfeelingaroseinthepitofmystomach.AsicknessI’dneverfeltbefore.

What I did was unforgivable. Suddenly, an email popped up on my computer. I

opened it and found a file that contained emails between Marcel and Thaddeus.

Emailsthathadcopiesofmyblueprints,datainformation,andeveryplanthatwas

madeforthehotel.Istudiedtheemailaddress:

amermaidssong@yahoo.com

“Ineedtogoseeher,”IspokeasIrosefrommychair.

“I’mnotsosureshe’sgoingtowanttoseeyouafterwhatyousaidtoher.”

“I’llmakeherseeme.Ihavetoapologize.”

“It’llbeamiracleifthatgirleverforgivesyouforwhatyou’vesaidanddone.”

Ishotheralook.

“I’msorry,Gabriel,butit’sthetruth.”

“Well,Ihavetotry.”

Iflewoutofthehouseandhailedacabtoherapartment.Ididn’thavetimeto

wait for Carl. When I went to press the button for her apartment, I noticed the

spacewherehernamehadsatwasblank.Blank,asinshenolongerresidedinthat

apartment. Someone was walking out of the building and as soon as the door

opened, I held it open for her and slipped inside. Taking the elevator up to her

apartment,Istoodinfrontofitandknockedonthedoor.Shedidn’tanswer,soI

knockedharder.

“Kate,it’sme.Openup.Weneedtotalk.”Icontinuedtopoundonthedoor.

A woman was walking down the hall and stopped at the apartment next to

Kate’s.

“Ifyou’relookingforthewomanwholivedthere,she’sgone,”shespoke.

“Gone?Whatdoyoumeanshe’sgone?”

“I think she moved out. Took her guitar and a couple of suitcases and left. I

asked her if she was going on vacation and she said no, she was leaving New

YorkCityforgood.”

“Didshesaywhereshewasgoing?”

“No. I didn’t feel it was appropriate to ask, since I’d never spoken to her

before.”

“Thankyou.”Iwalkedpastherandsteppedontotheelevator.

OnceIgotinsidethecab,IpulledmyphoneoutandcalledCaleb.

“Hey,Gabriel,what’sup?”

“I need you to come over as soon as possible. I need to talk to you. I was

wrongaboutKateandnowshe’sgone.”

“What?Whereisshe?”

“Idon’tknow.I’llexplaineverythingwhenyougettothehouse.”

“I’monmyway,bro.”

CalebpulledupbehindmeasIsteppedoutofthecab.

“Whatdoyoumeanyouwerewrongabouther?”heasked.

“Shewasn’ttheonewhotoldMarcelabouttheplansforthehotel.”

“Oh,nowyoubelieveher?”hespokewithasnidetone.

Assoonaswesteppedinsidethehouse,Igrabbedtherecorderandplayedit

forCaleb.

“Ican’tbelievesheactuallydidit,”hespokeasheslowlyshookhishead.

“Whatdidyousay?”Ilookedathim.“Didyouknowaboutthis?”

“After breakfast, I went to her apartment and she was just leaving to go to

Marcel’splace.ShesaidshehadaplanandItoldhernottodoit.Thatitwastoo

risky.”

“Whydidn’tyoutellme!”Ishoutedathim.

“Becauseyoualreadymadeupyourmindthatshewasguiltyandyoutoldher

she was a vile human being. I honestly didn’t think she would get Marcel to

confess.”

“She’sKateHarper.Haveyouforgotten?Damnit,Caleb!Ican’tbelieveyou

didn’ttellme.”

“Shetoldmenotto,andifIhad,youwouldhavegoneafterherandblownher

cover. Just forget about Kate for a minute. What are you going to do about

ThaddeusandMarcel?”

“I’m calling my lawyer right now.” I pulled my phone from my pocket as I

shookmyheadathim.

****

I tossed and turned all night, thinking about Kate. I no longer cared about the

hotel.Noneofthatmatteredtomeanymore.IfuckedupsobadlythatIwasafraid

Gracewasright.KatewouldneverbeabletoforgivemeforthethingsIsaidto

her. But I had to try and I needed to find her. I would bet the one person who

wouldknowwhereshewentwouldbeherfather.

IhadCarldrivemetoRikersIsland,whereIclearedsecurityandwaitedinthe

visitingroomforHenry.

“MayIhelpyou?”heaskedashewalkedintotheroom.

“Henry,I’mGabrielQuinn.”

Alookofdismayanddisapprovalfilledhiseyes.

“I’mnotafanofyours,Mr.Quinn,”hespoke.

“I’msureKatetoldyoueverything.”

“Shedid.”Henoddedashetookaseatattherectangulartable.

“Ineedtoknowwheresheis.It’simportant.”

“You hurt my baby girl in the worst way possible. Even if I knew where she

was,Iwouldn’ttellyou.”

“Areyousayingyoudon’tknowwheresheis?”

“That’sright.Shewouldn’ttellmewhereshewasgoing.She’stryingtoputthe

piecesofherlifebacktogether,Mr.Quinn,andyou’renotapartofthat.Infact,

you’rethereasonmylittlegirlleftinthefirstplace.Hadyoujusttrustedher,you

wouldn’tbesittingacrossfrommerightnow.”

I wanted to shout obscenities at him and tell him what a lousy father he was,

butIremainedcalmandlethimsaywhathehadto.

“IwaswrongandIneedtomakethingsrightwithher.”

“I’mafraidit’stoolateforthat.”

“Peopledeserveasecondchance,Henry.”

“You’re right, they do. You should have thought about that yourself before

doingandsayingwhatyoudidtoKate.She’saverystrongwomanandsheknows

how to take care of herself. Look at the risk she took to prove her innocence to

you. Move on with your life, Mr. Quinn, ” he got up from his seat, “and forget

aboutKate.”

“I’mafraidIcan’tdothat.Iloveher.I’minlovewithher.”

“Ifthat’s true andyou really dolove her, then youhave to lether go. Lether

findherwayandgetbackontrackwithherlife.Ihave.I’mnotperfectandImay

nothavebeenthebestfather,butIdidwhatIhadtodotosupporther.”

“Bymovingheraroundherwholelifeandexposinghertoyourcons?”Ispoke.

“Iregretthat,butIcouldn’tletthemtakeherawayfromme.ShewasallIhad

leftinthisworldafterhermotherdied.”

“Youcouldn’tletwhotakeherawayfromyou?”

“Her grandparents. They always hated me and threatened to take her away

because they thought I couldn’t support her. They told me that I’d be better off

givingheruptothembecausealoserandaconlikemecouldneverloveortake

careofherthewaytheycould.IdidwhatIhadtodotokeepher.”

“DoesKateknowanyofthis?”Iasked.

“No.Inevertoldher.Haveagoodday,Mr.Quinn.”

He walked to the door, summoned the guard, and left. As I was leaving, my

phoneranganditwasGiles,myattorney.

“Giles,”Ianswered.

“IwantedtoletyouknowthatThaddeusandMarcelareunderinvestigationby

thefedsandthepressishavingafielddaywiththis.Thejudgeorderedarestraint

onMarcel’sbuildingofthehoteluntiltheinvestigationiscompleted.It’suptoyou

ifyouwantThaddeusarrestedfortheftandespionage.”

“Yes.Iwanthimtopayforwhathedid.”

“Verywell.I’llbeintouch,myfriend.”

IsighedasIclimbedintothelimoandheadedhome.Ipouredmyselfadrink

and paced around the room, trying to figure out where the hell she could have

gone.

“Didsheevermentionsomewhereshe’dliketogo?”Graceaskedasshesaw

meindeepthought.

“NotthatIcanrecall.”

“Whydon’tyouhireaprivateinvestigatortofindher?”

“I’mgoingtohavetobecauseIneedtotalktoher.Evenifshedoesn’tforgive

me,Ineedtoapologize.”

ChapterThirty-Eight

Kate

Roseandherhusband,Bobby,werewonderfulpeople.Theymademefeelso

welcomeinthetwodaysIhadalreadybeenthere.Ispentanentiredayexploring

downtown Mystic, meeting the people in town and shopping in the cute little

boutiquestheyhadtooffer.ItkeptmymindoffGabriel,atleastforawhile.The

hurthadn’tevenbeguntolessenandmyheartwasstillshatteredintotinypieces.

MyfirstheartbreakeverandIhadnocluehowtohealfromit.

Thegazebohadbecomemyfavoritespottositinandreflectonmylife.AsI

wassittingthere,staringatthebeautifulgarden,Rosecamealongandtookaseat

besideme.

“HowareyoulikingMysticsofar?”

“Iloveithere.ThisplaceisexactlywhatIneeded.”

Sheplacedherhandontopofmineandgaveitagentlesqueeze.

“WhatbroughtyoutoMystic?SomehowIgetthefeelingyou’rerunningfrom

someoneorsomething.”

“Howdidyouknow?”

“Icantellthesethings.”

“I’mrunningfrommylife.”Igaveherasmallsmile.“I’vedonesometerrible

thingsandIwanttostartover.It’snevertoolateforthat,right?”

“Ofcoursenot,dear.That’showweashumanbeingsgrow.Wemakemistakes,

learnfromthem,andthenmoveon.”

“CanIaskyousomething,Rose?”

“Ofcourseyoucan.”

“Howlongdoesittakeforabrokenhearttoheal?”

“Well,itdependsontheperson.Thisisn’tyourfirstbrokenheart,isit?”

IlookeddownasIclaspedmyhands.

“Itis.I’veneverletmyselfgetcloseenoughtoanyonebefore.Ialwaysplayed

bymyownrules.Then,ImetthismanandashardasItriedtoshieldmyselffrom

him, I couldn’t. I fell in love when I knew deep in my mind that he could never

trustme.”

“Why’sthat?”sheasked.

“Because of the way we met. That’s another story all on its own. Something

happenedwithhiscompany,andinstantly,heaccusedme.EventhoughItoldhimI

didn’t do it, he didn’t believe me. He said horrible things and told me he never

wantedtoseemeagain.WhenIwaswithhim,mylifewasnormal.Anormalcy

thatIcravedmyentirelife.”Atearrandownmycheek.

Rose wrapped her arm around me and pulled me into her. Even though I had

onlyknownheracoupleofdays,Ifeltlikeshewasamotherfigure.SomethingI’d

neverhad.

“It’s okay to cry, Kate. Getting over a broken heart and relationship is

somethingthattakestime.Timewillanddoeshealallwounds.”

“Inevershouldhaveletmyselfgetinvolvedwithhim.”

“Of course you should have because then you never would have experienced

theloveyoufeltforhim.”

“The pain. This pain isn’t worth it. It hurts so much.” I began to cry. “I just

wantittostop.”

“And it will, dear, but you are the only one who can heal yourself. Isn’t that

whyyoucamehere?”

“Yes.”

“Thenyou’vealreadytakenthefirststep.Justkeepgoing.Everyday,thepain

willlessenuntilonedayyouwakeupanditwon’thurtanymore.”

“Thanks,Rose.”Igentlysmiled.

“You’rewelcome,dear.I’mgoingtogostartdinner.Wouldyouliketohelp?”

“I’dloveto.”

****

A few more days passed and I kept myself as busy as I could. A few more

guestscheckedinandIhelpedRoseoutbycleaningtherooms.SheinsistedthatI

stop,butthiswasmywayofthankingherandhelpingheroutlikeshehelpedme.

At night, I would hang out John’s Mystic River Tavern, where I would have a

couple of drinks and play pool with the locals. I really liked it in Mystic and it

alreadyfeltlikehome.Acoupleofthemenintownhadaskedmetogooutwith

them, but I politely turned them down. They were nice and attractive, but they

weren’tGabriel.

****

Gabriel

IspentdaystryingtofigureoutwherethehellKatewentoffto.Itwasaffecting

my work. I couldn’t stay focused and I didn’t care. Work was no longer my

number one priority; finding Kate was. I had just arrived home from the office,

and I walked up to the bedroom where she stayed. Sitting down on the bed, I

cuppedmyfaceinmyhands.Thebestthingthateverhappenedtomeinmylife

and I threw it away for nothing. I never should have accused her. I should have

believed her when she told me she wasn’t the one who told Marcel about the

hotel, because I loved her. I sighed as I ran my hands down my face. When I

looked up, I stared at the painting of the mermaid by the sea she painted. It was

beautiful, just like her. Suddenly, something hit me and hit me hard. I jumped up

fromthebedandrandownthestairstomyoffice.Openingmylaptop,Itypedthe

wordmermaidintothesearchbar.Iscrolledandscrolled,lookingforsomething,

anything that would lead me to where she was. What was I doing? I laughed at

myself for even thinking that I was going to find something. I went to shut my

laptopandsomethingcaughtmyattention.TheMermaidInnofMystic,abedand

breakfast in Mystic, Connecticut. Could she have gone there? Or was I just

grasping at straws? I shook my head as I closed my laptop, poured myself a

bourbon,andwentuptobed.

****

I tossed and turned all night like I did every night after I kicked Kate out. I

stumbled out of bed. As I was showering, I couldn’t stop thinking about The

MermaidInn.Itwasalongshot,butIdidn’tcare.Thedrivewasonlytwoanda

half hours and something I needed to do. I got dressed, packed a small bag, and

headedoutthedoor.

I reached the bed and breakfast, walked through the door, and found an older

womanbehindthedesk.

“WelcometoTheMermaidInn.”Shesmiled.

“Thankyou.I’mhopingyoucanhelpme.I’mlookingforsomeone.”

“Icantrytobeofsomehelp,”shespoke.

“I’mlookingforawomanwho’saboutfivefootseven,longblondehair,and

beautifulblueeyes.HernameisKateHarper.Shewouldhavestayedherewithin

thepastweek.”

“No,I’msorry.Noonebythatnameordescriptionhasstayedhere.”

“Doyouknoweveryonewhostayshere?”Iasked.

“Of course. My bed and breakfast only has four rooms available to stay in. I

knoweachandeveryguestthatwalksthroughthatdoor.”

“Itwaslongshot.Thankyou.Doyoubychancehaveanyroomsavailablefor

tonight?”

“Unfortunately,everyroomisbookedrightnow.”

“Isee.Haveagoodday,”Ispoke.

“Youtoo.”

IclimbedintothecarandfollowedthesignthatpointedtoDowntownMystic.

Iwashereanditseemednice,soIdecidedtostaythenight.Maybegettingaway,

evenforanight,woulddomesomegood.IpulledintoTheWhaler’sInntoseeif

theyhadanyrooms.Luckilyforme,theyhadtheirjuniorsuiteavailable.

“Wehopeyouenjoyyourstay,Mr.Quinn.”

“Thankyou.I’msureIwill.”

I set my bag on the bed and looked around the nautical-themed room. Pulling

myphonefrommypocket,IcalledCaleb.

“Hey,bro,”heanswered.

“Hey.IjustwantedyoutoknowthatI’minMystic,Connecticut.I’llbestaying

acoupleofdaysandI’mturningmyphoneoff.”

“WhyareyouinMystic?”heaskedwithasurprisedtone.

“There was this inn called The Mermaid Inn of Mystic. I took a wild chance

that maybe Kate would be there, but the owner said she wasn’t. It’s pretty nice

hereandIneedacoupleofdaystomyself.”

“Igetit.Okay.Trytorelaxwhileyou’rethere.”

“I’llcallyouwhenIgetbacktoNewYork.”

“Talktoyousoon,Gabriel.”

Iturnedoffmyphoneandplaceditinmypocket.Maybeachangeofscenery

would help get Kate off my mind. I took a stroll through the downtown area,

grabbedsomedinner,andheadedbacktothehotelforthenight.AsIwaswalking

upthestairstomyroom,Isawayoungcouplestandingthere,holdinghandsand

smilingateachotherastheytalked.Ithitaspotinmyheartbecausethatwaswhat

KateandIusedtodo.Isawthesamelookinthatwoman’seyesthatKatealways

hadwhenshesmiled.Fuck.Iwasn’tsupposedtobethinkingabouther.

The next morning, I got up early and went for a run along the river. It was a

chilly start to the day and perfect running weather. I ran for what seemed like

miles, trying to run away from all my problems. I needed a clear head before I

headedbacktoNewYork,butIwasn’tsosurethatwasgoingtohappen.AsIwas

running back to the hotel, I saw a woman standing outside a boutique looking in

thewindow.Herhair,herheight,andherbodyframe.Myheartstartedpounding.

It was Kate. I ran towards her, and as I approached, I placed my hand on her

shoulder.

“Kate,thankgodIfoundyou.”

Sheturnedaround,andinstantly,Ifroze.Itwasn’ther.

“Excuseme?”shespoke.

“I’msosorry.Ithoughtyouweresomeoneelse.I’msorry.”Icontinuedmyrun

tothehotel.

NowIhadgoneandcompletelylostit,thinkingthateverywomanIsawwith

longblondehairwasher.Idecidedthatafterbreakfast,IwouldheadbacktoNew

York, but first, I needed to stop at a small boutique I passed yesterday. Grace

collected crystal birds and I saw a unique one displayed in the window. Her

birthdaywascomingupandIthoughtitwouldbealittlesomethingextratogive

alongwithabonus.AfterImadethepurchase,Istoppedatasmallcoffeehouseto

haveacupofcoffeebeforeIheadedhome.

“HowmayIhelpyou?”theyoungbaristaasked.

“I’llhaveamediumcoffeeandascone,”Ireplied.

“Willthatbeforhereortogo?”

“Togo.Onsecondthought,forhere.”

ThelasttimeIdrovewhiledrinkingacupofcoffeeIendedupspillingitall

overmeandthecar.Itookaseatatasmalltable,sittingwithmybacktothedoor

totakeintheviewoftheriveronelasttimebeforeIleft.AsIwasdrinkingmy

coffee,Iheardawoman’svoice.Avoicethatmademyheartstarttorace.Islowly

turned around and saw Kate standing at the counter, talking to the barista. She

grabbedhercoffeetogoandheadedoutthedoor.Iquicklygotupandfollowed

her,stayingfarbehindsoshedidn’tseeme.Iwasn’tquitesurehowtoapproach

herandanervousnesssettledinsideme.Shewasjustasbeautifulasshealways

wasandseeingheragaintookmybreathaway.Justlikeithadmanytimesbefore.

I followed her to The Mermaid Inn. What the hell? Had she been there the

whole time and that woman lied to me? I waited outside the bed and breakfast

whileshewentinside.Afterafewmoments,Iwalkedthroughthedoorandsaw

theolderwomanbehindthedesk.

“Youliedtome,”IspokeasIapproachedher.

“Excuseme?”Herbrowarched.

“The woman who just walked through the door, that was Kate. The woman I

askedyouaboutyesterday.”

“Ithinkyoushouldleave,Mr.Quinn.Katecameheretohealabrokenheart.”

“AndIcameherelookingforhertomakethingsright.”

“Gabriel?”IheardKate’svoiceonthestairs.

Ilookedoveratherandsawthesadnessthatresidedinhereyes.

“Whatareyoudoinghere?”sheasked.

“Icamelookingforyou.”IsmiledasIwalkedtowardsher.

“Youshouldn’thave.”

ShequicklywalkedpastmeandoutthedoorandIranafterher.

“Kate,Ineedyoutolistentome.Please.”

“GobacktoNewYork,Gabriel.”Shecontinuedwalkingatarapidpace.

“I’mnotleavinguntilIapologizetoyou.I’msorryforeverythingI’vesaidand

done.”

“Fine.Iaccept,nowgo.Leavemealone!”sheshouted.

I caught up with her and lightly grabbed hold of her arm. She turned and her

beautifulblueeyesstaredintomine.

“I’msosorry.Pleaselet’sgosomewheresowecantalkinprivate.”

“There’s nothing to talk about. You said everything you needed to back when

youaccusedmeofsellingyououttoMarcel.”Shejerkedherarmaway.

“Please,sweetheart.Ijustneedyoutolistentome.”

“Firstofall,”shepointedherfingeratmeandspokeinanangrytone,“I’mnot

your sweetheart, and second of all, I don’t care if you need me to listen to you.

You didn’t listen to me. All of this could have been avoided if you would have

justbelievedinme!”

“IknowthatandI’msorry.I’mstupidandIturnedmybackontheonlywoman

I had ever loved. I’m here to make things right. I can’t eat, I can’t sleep, and I

can’tfocusonmycompany.WhatIdidwaswrongandImadeaterriblemistake.

I’msosorry,Kate.Please,youhavetobelieveme.”

“Justlikeyoubelievedme?”sheaskedinalowandsadvoice.“Iacceptyour

apology,butthat’sallIcangiveyou.Thingsaredifferentnow,Gabriel,andyou

needtogohome.”

“Kate,please.Ineedyou.”Ireachedoutandgrabbedherhand.

“AndIneededyouatonetimeandyouturnedyourbackonme.”Shepulledher

handaway.“Goodbye,Gabriel.Pleasejustleavemealone.”Tearsformedinher

eyes.“Youwillneverbeabletotrustme.”Shewalkedawayandheadedbackto

thebedandbreakfast.

“You’rewrong,Kate,”Ishouted.

I stood there and watched her walk away from me. The pain I already felt

intensifiedtosomethingsounbearableitsentmetomyknees.Myeyesbeganto

waterandbeforeIknewit,tearsstartedstreamingdownmyface.Thiswasn’tme.

Thiswasn’twhoIwas.Shechangedme,andnow,I’dneverknowwhatitwould

beliketoloveherandspendmylifewithher.

ChapterThirty-Nine

Kate

I ran back to The Mystic Inn and found Rose standing on the porch. The

uncontrollabletearsstreameddownmyfaceasIcriedinherarms.

“There, there, dear. It’ll be okay,” she whispered as she held the back of my

headwithherhand.

As soon as I calmed down, she walked me over to the gazebo where we

always had our little talks. Seeing him again hurt so much. The fact that he

searchedandfoundmeledmetobelievehereallywassorryforeverythinghe’d

done.Butitdidn’tmatter.IneededtomoveonwithmylifebecauseIwouldnever

allow myself to go through this again with him. People always say, the way you

meetsomeoneisthewaythingswillend.Wemetunderthecircumstancesofnon-

trustandweendedthesameway.RoseandIsatandtalkedforhours.

“Everybody deserves a second chance at least one time in their life,” she

spoke.“ThingswithmeandBobbyalwaysweren’tsogood.”

“Butyoutwohaveaperfectrelationship.”

“We do now because of second chances. Bobby made a mistake in the early

yearsandhecheatedonme.”

Ilookedatherasshocksplayedacrossmyface.

“I’d just had my third miscarriage. We were both devastated because we

thoughtforsureitwouldn’thappenagain.Iwentintoadeeperdepressionandshut

him out completely. He tried so hard to be there for me, but I wouldn’t let him.

WhatIfailedtorecognizewasthathewashurtingjustasbadlyasIwas.Iwasn’t

theretoeasehispainlikehewasforme.TheonlythingIcouldfocusonwashow

much these miscarriages affected me. I never thought about how it affected him.

Hewentoutonenightafterwehadafight,gotdrunk,andsleptwithawomanhe

metatthebar.”

“Rose,I’msosorry.”

“I’mnot.Becauseifhedidn’t,wewouldn’tbetogethertoday.”

“Howcouldyoutrusthimagainafterthat?”

“It took a while and months of therapy. But I knew he loved me more than

anythingintheworldandIlovedhim.Afterthathorribletimeandpainwewent

through,wefoundeachotheragainandourrelationshipwasbetterthanithadever

been. I gave him a second chance because he deserved to be given one. And he

gavemeonebecausehelovedme.Laterthatyear,Igotpregnantandhadmyson,

Gage. When he was six months old, I got pregnant again and had my daughter,

Kathryn. Those two children never would have been born if I had given up on

him.”

“I appreciate your story, Rose, but I’m not having children. At least not for a

fewyears,ifever.”

“Itisn’talwaysaboutthechildren,Kate.It’saboutyourlifeandthewonderful

thingsyoucouldbemissingoutonbecauseyou’relettingyourpainandheartache

decideyourfuture.”

IsighedasIlaidmyheadonhershoulder.

“Runningawaydoesn’tsolveanything.YouhaveahomeinNewYorkandyour

father is there. Do you want to miss out on time spent with him because of

Gabriel?”

“Ican’tbeinthesamecityashim.Itwouldhurttoomuch.”

“Youjustthinkyoucan’t.You’reastrongwoman,KateHarper,andyoucanget

throughthis.Firstheartbreaksarealwaysthehardest,butitdoesn’tmeanyouhave

torunawayfromyourlifeandhometoheal.YoucanmakeafreshstartinNew

York.Changeyourroutine,changeyourhabits,andbeforeyouknowit,yourlife

willbeexactlyhowyouenvisioneditwouldbe.Besides,I’monlyatwo-and-a-

half-hourdriveawayandI’llalwayshavearoomreadyandwaitingforyouwhen

youneedit.Youarewelcomehereanytimeandasmuchasyouwanttobehere.”

“Thanks,Rose.Iloveyou.”

“Iloveyoutoo,dear.”

I took everything Rose said to heart and decided that I needed to go back to

NewYorktolivemylife.Ilikeditthereandmyfatherwasonlyashortdistance

away.Thenextmorning,IpackedmybagsandRosewalkedwithmetothetrain

station.

“Goodbye,mydarlingKate.”Shesmiledassheplacedherhandsonmyface.

“Haveasafetriphomeandcallmeortextwhenyougetthere.”

Asmilecrossedmylips.“Iwill,andIpromisetokeepintouch.”

“Youbetter,becauseIconsideryouadaughterandI’llworry.”

****

Gabriel

Icouldn’tbringmyselftodrivehomeafterKateandIhadwords,soIspentthe

restofthedaysittingbytheriver,thinkingbackonourconversation.Shehatedme

andIdidn’tblameher.Iwasfoolishtothinkthattheminuteshesawme,she’drun

intomyarmsandtellmethatsheforgaveme.Shesaidsheforgaveme,butIknew

deepdownsheonlysaidthattomakemeleave.

Thenextmorning,Icheckedoutofthehotelanddrovetothebedandbreakfast

toseeheronelasttime.Ididn’tcometotryandgetherbackbecauseIknewshe

didn’twantthat.Ijustneededtoseeheronelasttimeforclosure,becauseafter

today, I’d never see her again. That was what she wanted and I was going to

respectherwishesnomatterhowbaditkilledmeinside.

Iwalkedthroughthedoorandfoundtheolderwomandustingthecoffeetable

inthelivingarea.

“Hello,”Inervouslyspoke.

Sheturned,andwhenshelookedatme,asmallsmilesweptoverherlips.

“Mr.Quinn,Ithoughtyouwenthome.”

“I’m on my way now, but I need to see Kate one last time. Can you tell me

whichroomshe’sstayingin?”

“I’mafraidshe’sleftalready.”

“What?Wheredidshego?”

“Lookatthat.”Shelookedoverattheclockthathungonthewall.“It’slunch

time.” She smiled. I think it would be in your best interest to join me. You

shouldn’t drive home on an empty stomach. I made a tuna noodle casserole and

somefreshbread.”

Igotthefeelingshewantedtotalktome,soIpolitelyaccepted.

“Sure.Thatsoundsgood.”

“Excellent.GohaveaseatinthediningroomandI’llbringinthefood.”

Ididassheaskedandtookaseatatasmallroundtablethatsattwo.Icouldn’t

believeKatehadalreadyleft.Thatrighttherewasanindicationthatshewantedto

getawayfrommeasquicklyaspossible.

“Bytheway,mynameisRose.”Shesmiledasshesetdownmyplateinfront

ofme.

“It’sapleasuretomeetyou,Rose.”

Iplacedthewhiteclothnapkinonmylapasshesatdownacrossfromme.

“DoyouknowwhereKatewent?”Iasked.

“IsentherbackhometoNewYork.”

“Really?”Iaskedwithexcitementinmyvoice.

“Youneedtolistentome,Gabriel.Ifyouwantherback,youneedtogiveher

timeandspace.”

“But—”

“Nobuts.”Sheheldupherfinger.“Kateneedstimetofigureherselfout.Itold

herthatrunningfromherlifewasn’ttheanswerandthatsheshouldstayinNew

Yorkbecausethat’swhereherhomeandherfatheris.KateandItalkedeveryday.

Sometimesforhours.Shetoldmeaboutherpast,herfather,andthecircumstances

that led to the two of you meeting and being reunited. She also told me what

lengthsshewenttoinordertogiveyouyourfather’sdreamback.Shesaidshedid

itforherself,torightallthewrongsshehaddone.ButIknowdeepdowninside,

shediditforyoubecauseshelovesyou.”

“AndIloveher.”

“Iknowyoudo.Icouldseeitinyoureyeswhenyousawherstandingonthe

stairs.Nottomentionthefactthatyoufoundherhere,inthissmalltownofMystic

whenshecouldhavebeenanywhereelseintheworld.Ihavehopeforthetwoof

you,butyoumustproceedwithcaution.”

“Idon’tunderstand.”Ifrowned.

“Inordertogetbackwhatthetwoofyouhad,youmuststartallover.Erasethe

pastandeverythingthathadhappened.Laythefoundationforanewrelationship.

Reintroduceyourselftoherasifyou’remeetingherforthefirsttime.Gettoknow

herwithoutanyjudgment.Dateherandtakethingsslow.Butshewillneedtime.I

knowthatmaybedifficultforyoutohear,butitisessentialthatshe’sinagood

placefirst.”

“Howlongarewetalking?”Iasked.

“That’suptoKate.”

“Andwhatifshestillwantsnothingtodowithme?She’sthemostimportant

thinginmylife.”

“Shestilllovesyou,Gabriel,andshealwayswill.Don’tworryaboutthesmall

things.Timeisonbothofyoursides.”

“Howdidyoubecomesowise,Rose?”Ismiled.

“I’velivedalongtime,dear,andI’veexperiencedalotinmylife.Iknowwhat

worksandwhatdoesn’t.Nowthatyou’vefinishedyourlunch,it’stimeforyouto

head home.” She grinned. “I’ve made you a special care package of my famous

homemadeoatmealchocolatechipcookiestotakewithyou.”

WebothstoodupfromourseatsandIwalkedaroundtoRoseandgavehera

hug.

“Thankyou,andthankyoufortakingcareofKate.”

“You’rewelcome,dear.Makesuretokeepintouch.”

“Iwill.”IsmiledasIleftthebedandbreakfast.

ChapterForty

Gabriel

AmonthandahalfhadpassedsincemyconversationwithRosetookplace.I

founditdifficulttodoasshesaid,butIdid,andIstayedawayfromKate.Butthat

didn’tmeanIdidn’tfollowheror,asCalebwouldcallit,stalkher,justtomake

sureshewasokay.IalsodiditbecauseIcouldn’tgothatlongwithoutseeingher.

Calebmetheronceaweekatacoffeeshopandkeptmepostedaboutwhatwas

goingoninherlife.Hehatedbetrayingherconfidencelikethat,butheknewhow

worriedIwasabouther.SheneveraskedCalebaboutmeandinsomewaysthat

hurt.Maybeshewasovermeandjustdidn’tcare.Ormaybeshewastooafraidto

ask.Eitherway,Iwasplanningonmakingmymoveverysoon.

****

Kate

My life was slowly getting back on track. I had started my own freelance art

services,thankstoawomannamedTheathatIhadmetwhileIwasbrowsingin

anartgallery.WegottotalkingaboutaspecificpaintingandItoldherthatIalso

painted.ShewaspregnantandaskedmeifIwouldpaintamuralonthewallof

her baby’s nursery. She had been trying to find someone for a while, but by the

time someone was available to do it, her baby would already be born. I

immediatelytookthejobandfinisheditratherquicklysinceitwastheonlythingI

hadtodo.Sheloveditsomuchandwassoexcitedaboutitthatshetoldhercircle

offriendsandtheybegancallingmetodosomeartworkforthem.

When I got home from Mystic, I did some house cleaning. I threw out all my

wigs,passports,andanythingandeverythingthathadtodowithacon.Iwasme

now,KateHarper,andshewastheonlypersonI’deverbe.AsforGabriel,Istill

thoughtabouthimeveryday,butlikeRosepromised,myheartwasonthemend

and I didn’t feel as sad anymore. It helped that I kept busy all day. It was the

nighttimethatwastheloneliest.IhadmetwithCalebonceaweekforcoffeeand

wetalkedaboutmylifeandhis.Hisrecordingcareerwastakingoffandhewas

travelingbackandforthtoL.A.alot.Ididn’taskaboutGabrielandhedidn’ttalk

abouthim.ItwasbestthatIdidn’tknowwhatwasgoingonhislife.Iwassurehe

hadfoundanotherwomanbynow.Amanlikehimwouldn’tgotoolongwithout

dating. The thought saddened me, but it was for the best and I realized that. I

visitedmyfatheronceaweekandhewasthrilledthatIdecidedtostayinNew

York.ItoldhimallaboutRoseandhewashappythatIfoundsomeonelikeher.I

didn’ttellhimthatGabrielhadfoundmeinMystic.Somethingswerejustbetter

offnotdiscussed.IfeltthemoreItalkedabouthim,theharderitwouldbetoget

overwhathappened.

****

Gabriel

IfiledcriminalchargesagainstThaddeusandMarcel.Acourtdatewassetfor

next month to decide their fate. My lawyer said chances were that Thaddeus

wouldgotoprisonforespionageandtheftsincehetookmyplansandgavethem

toMarcel.Thepresshadafielddaywithwhathadhappenedandamajorityofthe

company’s shareholders pulled out and left the company in financial distress.

Nothinghadmademehappier.IwasgettinganxiousaboutKate.Theonlyproblem

wasthatsinceshewasgettingherlifebackontrack,IwasafraidIwasnothing

butadistantmemorytoher.

“I’mgoingtogetKateback,Grace,”Ispoke.

“Andhowareyougoingtodothat?”Shearchedherbrow.

“Ihaveaplan.”Igrinned.“Agoodplan.”

“Ihopeitworks.Imissher.”Shesmiled.

“Idotoo.Fingerscrossed,”IspokeasIgotupfromtheisland.

ChapterForty-One

Kate

EverySaturdaymorning,weatherpermitting,IwenttothelakeinCentralPark

where I would spend at least an hour and draw or read a book. Sometimes, I

wouldjuststareoutintothewaterandappreciatethebeautythatsurroundedme.A

sense of peace and inspiration flowed through me each and every time, just like

whenIwouldsitinthegazeboinMystic.

I sat on a wooden bench sipping my coffee and staring out into the lake as I

thoughtaboutallthethingsIhadyettodotogetmybusinessofftheground.My

website was in development and I still had to design and order some business

cards. As I was sitting there, I caught something running towards me from the

corner of my eye. Looking over, I saw it was a white puppy with a pink leash

attachedtoit.

“Ohmygoodness.Wheredidyoucomefrom?”IsmiledasIreacheddownto

pether.

ShewasaMalteseandthecutestlittlethingIhadeverseen.Ilookedfortags

on her collar but didn’t see any. Then, I looked around to see if anyone was

comingtoclaimher.Obviously,shehadgottenawayfromherowner.

“You are adorable.” I picked her up and brought her nose to mine. “Where’s

yourparents?”

Shebeganlickingmyfaceoverandover.

“Thankyouforthekisses,sweetgirl.”

Suddenly,Iheardavoiceapproachmefromtheside.

“Thereyouare,youlittlerascal.”

I looked over and saw Gabriel standing there. I felt my almost mended heart

crackandasickfeelingwashedoverme.

“Thisisyourdog?”IaskedwithsuspicionasInarrowedmyeyeathim.

“Sheis.”Hesmiledatme.“Wewereonawalkandshesomehowbrokefree

frommyhand.Thankyouforholdingontoher.I’mGabrielQuinn.”Heextended

hishand.

Iwasconfusedasfuckastowhatwashappening.ButIdecidedtoplayalong.

“KateHarper.”Ilightlyshookhishand.

“It’snicetomeetyou,Kate.”

“Likewise.”Islightlytiltedmyheadtotheside.

“Shelikesyou.”Hesmiledasthedogwouldn’tstoplickingmyface.

“She’sadorable.Howlonghaveyouhadher?”

“Acoupleofdays.”

“What’shername?Youreallyshouldgettagsforher.”

“Iwasgoingto,butIhaven’tnamedheryet.”

“Why?”Iaskedinconfusion.

“Because I haven’t been able to think of a fitting name for her. Any

suggestions?”Hesmirked.

“Well,growingup,IalwayswantedawhiteMalteseandIwasgoingtoname

herLadybecauseshe’sprimandproper.”AsmallsmilecrossedmylipsasIheld

thedogupandstaredather.

“Ilikeit.Comeon,Lady.Weneedtocontinueourwalk.”

I set the dog down and handed the leash to Gabriel. I could literally feel the

crackinmyheartbegintoheal.Seeinghimwiththatpuppygavemeallthefeels.

“Thank you again, Kate. It was a pleasure to meet you.” The corners of his

mouthcurvedupintoasmileashebegantowalkaway.Suddenly,hestoppedand

turnedtome.“Excuseme,Kate?”

“Yes?”

“WouldyoubyanychanceliketojoinLadyandmeonourwalk?”

Icouldn’thelpbutsmileathisinvitation.“Sure.Iwouldloveto.”

Myheadtoldmenottodoit,butmyhearttoldmeitwasokay.

WewalkedsidebysidethroughtheparkwhileLadywalkedaheadofus.We

talkedasifwehadjustmetforthefirsttimeandIcouldn’thelpbutfeeloverjoyed

atwhathewasdoing.Itoldhimaboutmybusinessandhetoldmeabouthis.We

talkedaboutwine,food,ourlikes,andourdislikes.Welaughedjustlikeweused

toandtheconnectionwealwayssharedfeltstrongerthanever.Oncewereached

themainstreet,Gabrielstoppedandturnedtome.

“Thankyouforjoiningus.IsthereachanceIcouldgetyourphonenumberand

maybewecouldgooutsometime?”Hesmiled.

“Iwouldlikethat.”

HepulledhisphonefromhispocketandenteredmynumberasIrattleditoff.I

saidgoodbyetoLady,andGabrielwalkedawayintheoppositedirectionIwas

going.Ihesitatedforamomentandthenthewordsjustfelloutofmymouth.

“Hey,Gabriel?”Icalledouttohim.

“Yeah?”Hestoppedandlookedatme.

“Idon’thaveanyplanstonight,”Inervouslyspoke.

“NeitherdoI.”Hegrinned.“Wouldyouliketogotodinnerandmaybecatcha

movie?”

“Yeah.Iwould.”Ibitdownonmybottomlip.

Hepulledhisphonebackoutfromhispocket.

“What’syouraddress?I’llpickyouupatsixo’clock.”

****

Gabriel

IletoutasighofreliefasIwalkedawayfromher.Itworked.Myplanworked.

ShewasbackinmylifeandIwasthehappiestmanalive.AssoonasIclimbed

intothelimo,IcalledCaleb.

“Hey,bro.”

“Ihaveadatetonight,Caleb.KateandIaregoingtodinnerandamovie.”

“Thank god.” He sighed. “I didn’t know how much longer I was going to be

abletoputupwithyou.”

Iletoutachuckle.

“Letmeguess.Thedog?”

“Yeah.Shecouldn’tresisther.”

“I’m happy for you, Gabriel. Just do me a favor and don’t be a fucking idiot

thistime.”

“Iwon’tbe.I’mneverlettinghergoagain.”

Iendedthecallandheadedhome.ItookLadyupstairswithmeasIgaveRose

acall.

“TheMermaidInnofMystic,Rosespeaking.HowcanIhelpyou?”

“Rose,it’sGabriel.”

“Hello,Gabriel.Howareyou?”

“I’mgreat.IjustwantedtogiveyouacallandletyouknowthatKateandIare

goingonadatetonight.”

“Whatwonderfulnews.I’msohappytohearthat.”

“Thanks,Rose,andagain,thankyouforyouradvice.Iappreciateit.”

“You’re welcome, dear. I hope you and Kate have a great night together. Just

remember, don’t rush into anything. Take it slow and get to know each other all

overagain.”

“Iwill.I’mnotdoinganythingtopotentiallypushheraway.”

ChapterForty-Two

Kate

AssoonasIgothome,IjumpedonthecouchandcalledRose.

“TheMermaidInnofMystic,thisisRose.HowmayIhelpyou?”

“Rose,it’sme.”

“Kate,darling.Howareyou?”

“I’mgreat.You’renevergoingtobelievewhereI’mgoingtonight.”

“Where?”

“TodinnerandamoviewithGabriel.”

“Aw,Kate.That’swonderfulnews.”

“You should have seen him today. He got a dog!” I spoke with excitement.

“And we met in the park and he introduced himself to me as if I was some

stranger. Then I went for a walk with him and Lady and we talked like we had

neverevenknowneachother.Itwassobizarre.”

“I’msohappyforyou,dear.HaveawonderfuldatewithhimandIwanttohear

allaboutittomorrow,”shespoke.

“Iwill.I’llbeintouchsoon.”

Itwasalmostsixo’clockwhenthebuzzertomyapartmentrang.Pressingthe

buttontounlockthedoor,Istoodinthedoorwayandwaitedforhimtostepoffthe

elevator.Whenhedid,Inoticedheheldabouquetofflowersinhishand.

“Youlookbeautiful.”Hesmiled.

“Thankyou.Comeonin.”

“Theseareforyou.”Hehandedmethebeautifulredroses.

“Thankyou,butyoushouldn’thave,”IspokeasIbroughtthemuptomynose

andsmelledthem.

“Iwantedto,”hespokewithseriousness.

Oureyesmet,andinstantly,allthereasonswhyIfellinlovewithhimbefore

came flooding back. We went to dinner and talked so much that we missed the

movieweweregoingtosee.Asweexitedtherestaurant,Gabrieltookholdofmy

handandlookedatme,waitingtoseeifIwouldpullaway.Ididn’t.AllIdidwas

smile,lettinghimknowthatitwasokay.Wewalkeddownthebrightlylitstreets

ofNewYorkandstoppedinOrangeLeafforsomefrozenyogurt,wherewetalked

somemoreandlaughedbeforehetookmehome.

GabrielwalkedmeuptomyapartmentandIinvitedhiminforaglassofwine.

“Wouldyouliketocomeinforaglassofwine?”

“Astemptingasthatsounds,Ibettergethometorelievethesitter.”

“Thesitter?”Iasked.

“IhaveadogsitterlookingafterLady.”

“Areyouserious?”Ilaughed.

“OfcourseIam.She’sjustababy.Shecan’tbelefthomeallalone.”

Myheartmeltedwhenhesaidthat,andsuddenly,Ilostallcontrol.Ireachedup

andsmashedmymouthagainsthis.Heplacedhishandsfirmlyoneachsideofmy

faceasourpassionatekisscontinued.Thefeelingofhiswarmlipspressedagainst

minewasintoxicatingandIneverwantedittoend.Hebrokeourkissandstared

atme.

“Weshouldn’t.It’sourfirstdate.”

“Idon’tcare.IfeellikeI’vebeenonamilliondateswithyoualready.”

“Areyousure?”

“Yes.Areyou?”Iasked.

“It’sallIeverthinkabout.I’vemissedyousomuch,Kate.”

“I’vemissedyoutoo,Gabriel.”

“Gopackabagandcometomyhousewithme.Ladywillbehappytoseeyou

again.”

I bit down on my bottom lip as excitement soared through me. I ran into the

bedroom,threwsomeessentialsintomybag,andweheadedoutthedoor.

****

Gabriel

Sheshockedmewiththatkiss,butitwasshockthatfeltsogoodandright.As

soonaswearrivedbackatmytownhouse,Ladycamerunningtothedoortogreet

us. Kate got down on the floor and played with her. As much as I wasn’t a dog

lover,IknewgettingLadywastherightdecision.Plus,shewasalreadystartingto

growonme,andseeingKatewithhermadeitallthemoreworthit.

Itookherbagupstairstomybedroomandsetitonthechair.Katefollowed,

holdingLady in herarms. I turnedto her and ranthe back ofmy hand downher

cheek.

“WhatdowedowithLady?”sheasked.

“I’lltakeherdowntohercrate.She’llbefineforawhile.”Ismiled.

After putting the dog downstairs, I went back up to my room, where I found

KatesittingontheedgeofthebedinapieceoflingeriethatIhadboughther.She

wasexceptional,stunning,andmycockenjoyedtheviewasmuchasmyeyesdid.

Walkingovertoher,Ipushedherhairtothesideandletmytongueslideacross

the delicate skin of her neck. She let out a light moan, the type of moan that I

missed hearing. My hands traveled to her breasts as I caressed them through the

sheerfabricofhernightie.Mycockwassohardithurt,andIcouldn’twaittofeel

thewarmthofheronceagain.

I gently laid her down on her back and removed the nightie from her perfect

body. A body that I craved and missed for what seemed like eternity. Our lips

meshedwithoneanother’sasmyhandtraveleddownthefrontofherpantiesand

my finger dipped inside. She gasped and arched her back in pleasure and I

exploredher.ThewetnessthatemergedfromhermademehungrierthanIalready

was.Iplayedwithherandteasedherhardenednippleswithmytongueuntilshe

orgasmed. I licked every inch of her bare skin until I reached her wet sensitive

spot. To taste her again was a dream come true. My tongue made tiny circles

aroundherclit,heighteningherarousalevenmore.Hermoansbecamelouderas

herfingersranthroughmyhair.Thiswasmypieceofheaven.

I hovered over her, kissing her lips as I prepared to thrust inside her. The

momentI’dbeenwaitingfor.Breakingourkiss,Istaredintohereyesasmycock

slowlyenteredinside.Herlipspartedasalightgaspescapedher.

“Iloveyou,Kate,”IwhisperedasIburiedmyselfinsideher.

“Iloveyoutoo,Gabriel.”Shesmiled.

ChapterForty-Three

Kate

Ilaythere,wrappedinhisarmsfeelingsafe,secure,andhappywhilemybody

tried to come down from the multiple orgasms he had given me, my skin still

tremblingfromhistouch.

“CanIaskyousomething?”hespoke.

“Ofcourseyoucan.”Myfingergentlyranalonghischest.

“Promisemeyouwon’tgetmad.Doyoupromise?”

“YouwanttoknowifIsleptwithMarcel.Don’tyou?”

“Howdidyouknow?”

“Because if the situation was reversed, I’d want to know.” I lifted my head

fromhischestandplacedmyhandonhischeek.“No,Ididn’tsleepwithhim.I

neverhadanyintentionto.”

“Andhewasokaywiththat?Hehasareputation.”

“Hehadnochoice.ItoldhimIwasonmyperiod.”Ismiled.

Hebroughthishandupandranhisfingersthroughmyhair.

“Howdidyougetwhatyouneededwithouthimbecomingsuspicious?”

“Youreallywanttoknowthetruth?”

“Ido,Kate.It’simportantthatIknow,”hespokewithseriousness.

“I drugged him,” I answered with a twisted face. “Put him to sleep for a

while.”

Hestaredatmeinshockforamoment,butIknewhewasproud.

“Thankyoufordoingwhatyoudid.HadIknown,Iwouldhavestoppedyou.

Youtookahugerisk,sweetheart.”

“You’resocuteforthinkingyoucouldhavestoppedme.”Ikissedthetipofhis

nose.“Anyway,you’rewelcome.”

“InevermeantawordofwhatIsaidtoyouthatnightattheball.Iwasjustso

hurtandangrythatyouwerewithhim.”

“Iknowyouwere.Butthat’sallinthepastandthat’swhereit’sstaying.”

“I love you so damn much. The thought that I had lost you forever killed me

inside.”Hisgriparoundmetightened.

Suddenly,weheardLadybarkingfromdownstairs.

“Ohshit.Iforgotabouther,”Gabrielspoke.“I’llberightback.”

He climbed out of bed, pulled on his pajama bottoms, and left the room. I

slippedintomynightie,grabbedmyphone,andheldituptosnapapicturewhen

hewalkedbackintotheroom.Afewmomentslater,hereturnedwithLadyinhis

arms.

“Freeze!”Iexclaimed.“Iwanttogetapicture.”

“Now?”heasked.

“Smile.”IsmiledasItookacouplepictures.

He set Lady down on the bed and she ran up to me, giving me puppy kisses

galore.Gabrielclimbedintobedandthetwoofusplayedwithheruntilwewore

herout.

“She’syourdog,Kate.Iboughtherforyou.”

“What?Areyoukiddingme?”

“No. You told me that you always wanted a white Maltese growing up. So I

thoughtyoushouldhaveone.ButIwilltellyouthatIhavebecomequitefondof

heralreadyandI’mnotsureIcanletyoutakeherawayfromme.”

“Butyoujustsaidshewasmine.”Ipouted.

“I would love for her to be our dog, and I think the solution to this little

problemisthatyou’llhavetomoveinwithmesoshecanbewithbothofusall

thetime.”

I didn’t even have to ponder the idea. The thought of moving in with him,

sleepingwithhimeverynight,andwakinguptohimeverymorningmademefeel

liketheluckiestwomanalive.

“Iwouldlovetomoveinwithyou.That’sifyou’resureyoucanhandleliving

withme24/7.”Ismiled.

“Oh,Icanhandleyou.Welivedtogetherbefore,don’tforget.Plus,I’venever

beensosureaboutanythinginmylife.”Hislipsbrushedagainstmine.

****

IthadbeenamonthsinceImovedintoGabriel’stownhomeandlifeformewas

perfect.Ifinallymethismother,whohadjustgottenbackfromEurope,whereshe

hadbeentravelingforthepastsixmonths.Ilikedherandsheseemedtolikeme

too.Caleb’smusiccareertookoffwhenhissonghit#5onthemusiccharts.Ina

fewweeks,hewouldbegoingontour,beingtheopeningbandforMatchbox

Twenty.LadywasgrowingsofastandGabrielandIwerecompletelyinlovewith

her.

I slipped into a short, red, form-fitting dress that sat off the shoulders for a

specialdinnerGabrielhadplannedforus.

“Youlookbeautiful,”hespokeashewalkedupbehindmeandpressedhislips

againstmyneck.

“Thankyou.”Ismiled.

“Ipickedupalittlesomethingforyoutoday.”Hepulledasmallredboxfrom

hissuitpocketandhandedittome.

Opening the lid, I gasped when I saw the beautiful princess cut diamond

earringssittingthere.

“Gabriel,they’rebeautiful.Youshouldn’thave.Whatisthisfor?”

“Yes, I should have, and they’re just a reminder of how much I love you and

howbeautifulyouare.”

Istartedtofanmyeyestokeepthetearsfromfalling.

“Thankyou.Iloveyousomuch.”Ithrewmyarmsaroundhisneckandkissed

hislips.

“You’rewelcome.Areyoualmostready?Ourreservationsareforseven.”

“Yes.Ijusthavetoputtheseearringsinandthenwecango.”Ismiled.

WearrivedathishotelandIlookedathiminconfusion.

“We’reeatingatyourhotel?”Iasked.

“Yes.”Hesmiledashegrabbedmyhandandledmeinside.

We stepped into Cornelia, the upscale restaurant in the hotel that was named

afterhismother.Ilookedaround,forweweretheonlytwopeopleintheplace.

“Goodevening,Mr.Quinn.I’llshowyoutoyourtable.”

“Goodevening,Frank.”

“Gabriel,I’mconfused.Whyisnobodyhere?”IaskedasItookaseat.

“Iclosedtherestaurantdownfortonightforaveryspecialcelebration.”

“Whatarewecelebrating?”

“Him.”Gabrielheldouthishand.

Ilookedbehindmeandsawmyfatherstandingthere,dressedinablacksuit.

“Hello,babygirl.”Hesmiled.

Throwingmyhandsovermymouth,IlookedatGabriel,whostoodtherewitha

smile on his face. I got up from my seat and ran over to my father, throwing my

armsaroundhimandhugginghimtight.

“Whatareyoudoinghere?”Iasked.

“Whydon’tyouaskGabriel?”

Iturnedandlookedathim,andsuddenly,tearsfilledmyeyeswhenIrealized

whathehaddone.

“Don’tcry,baby,”hespokeashewalkedovertomeandwipedthetearsfrom

myface.

“Ican’tbelieveyoudidthis.”

“Did you really think I would let him sit in prison? I’d been waiting for this

night for a while. I wanted to surprise you and it was so hard keeping this a

secret.”

“God,Gabriel.Iloveyousomuch.Thankyou.”

“Iloveyoutoo,baby.”

Thethreeofussatdownandenjoyedawonderfuldinnertogether.Gabrielhad

givenmyfatherajobatthisveryhotelandafreeroomuntilhecouldsavesome

moneytobeabletoaffordanapartment.This,mylife,wasalltoosurreal.Having

thetwomenwhowerethemostimportantpeopleandthingsinmylifeatmyside

waslikeadreamcometrue.

ChapterForty-Four

ThreeMonthsLater

Gabriel

“Youhaveeverythingpacked?”Kateaskedasshewalkedintothebedroom.

“Ido,baby.Iwishyoucouldcomewithme.”Iplacedmyhandsfirmlyonher

hips.“ButI’mgoingtobetiedupinallkindsofmeetingsfordays.”

“It’sokay.Iunderstand.”Shesmiled.

“I’m happy you’re going to visit Rose this weekend. I really didn’t want you

beinghereallalone.”

“Ican’twaittoseeherandshefinallygetstomeetLady.”

Ibrushedmylipsagainsthersandhuggedhertightly.

“I’mgoingtomissyou,”Iwhisperedinherear.

“I’mgoingtomissyoutoo.Trynottoworktoohard.”

“Ipromisetocallyoueverydayandexpectalotoftextmessagesfromme.”

“Ilookforwardtoeachandeveryone.Iloveyou,Gabriel.”

“I love you too, baby.” I gave her one last kiss and took my suitcase

downstairs.

The truth was I had to fly to Boston for a planning meeting for a few hours.

AfterIwasdonewiththat,IwouldflytoMystictosurpriseher.

****

Kate

It felt good to be back in Mystic again. Rose greeted me with open arms and

fellinlovewithLadytheminuteshesawher.

“I’msohappyyou’rehere.”Shesmiled.

“Metoo.”

“BobbyisgoingtocoverthebedandbreakfastformetodaywhileIspendthe

entiredaywithyouandthislittlelady.”

Wespentthedayshopping,hadlunch,tookawalkonthetrails,andthenitwas

timetoheadback.Whenwearrivedatthebedandbreakfast,Inoticedthedining

roomdoorswereshut.Roseneverkeptthemclosed.

“Ah, good. You’re back.” Bobby smiled. “I went ahead and made dinner for

you.”

“Aw, Bobby, you shouldn’t have,” Rose spoke. “Kate, why don’t you go into

thediningroomandhaveaseat.I’mgoingtotakeLadyoutsideandseeifshehas

togopotty.”

I gave her a smile as I opened the dining room doors and froze when I saw

Gabrielstandingnearabeautifullydecoratedtablethatwaslitwithcandlesand

arrangedwithfreshflowers.

“Ohmygod,whatareyoudoinghere?”IaskedwithshockasIwalkedover

andwrappedmyarmsaroundhim.“Whathappenedtoyourmeetings?”

“Ialreadyhadmymeeting.”

“Huh?Idon’tunderstand.Yousaidthatyouwouldbetiedupforafewdays.”I

brokeourembrace.

“I am going to be tied up for a few days, but not with meetings,” he spoke.

“Kate,sitdown.”

“Gabriel,what’sgoingon?”

Hegotdownononekneeandpulledasmallboxfromhispocket.Openingthe

lid,hetookoutabeautifuldiamondringandhelditup.

“Kate, words cannot explain how much you have changed my life. I never

thoughtIwouldlovesomeoneasmuchasIloveyou.Youaremyentireworldand

Ican’timagineyounotbeinginit.”

Iplacedmyhandovermymouthastearsstartedtostreamdownmyface.

“Living with you the past three months has been incredible and I fall in love

withyoumoreeverysingleday.Ididn’tthinkitwaspossible,butIdo,andIwant

tospendtherestofmylifewithyouasyourhusbandandyouasmywife.Being

mygirlfriendjustisn’tenoughforme.Willyoudomethehonorofmarryingme

andspendingtherestofyourlifeasMrs.GabrielQuinn?”

TheuncontrollableurgetobawlmyeyesoutsweptovermeasIcriedlikea

babyinfrontofhim.

“Sweetheart,you’rescaringme.”

“I—I—I’mjustsohappy,”Icried.“Iwasn’texpectingthis.”

“Iwantedtosurpriseyou.So—”

“Yes!OfcourseI’llmarryyou.It’sallIwant.”

A wide grin splayed across his face as he slipped the ring on my finger and

thenbroughtmyhanduptohislips.

“Iloveyoumorethanlife,baby,”hespoke.

I was shaking uncontrollably as I wrapped my arms around his neck and we

bothstoodup.

“Iloveyoumorethanlife,”Iwhisperedinhisear.

Suddenly, we heard the light claps of Bobby and Rose, who stood in the

doorwayandwatchedus.RosesetLadydownandshecamerunningovertous.

Gabrielbentdownandpickedherup.

“Shesaidyes,Lady.Yourmamasaidyes!”hespokewithexcitement.

“Lookslikewehaveaweddingtoplan,Bobby.”Rosesmiled.

“Wesuredo,Rose.”Hehookedhisarmaroundherasshelaidherheadonhis

shoulder.

****

Gabriel and I were married in the gazebo at The Mermaid Inn of Mystic. I

couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day. The sun was shining and it was a

perfect seventy-five degrees outside. We had to plan the wedding quite quickly

whiletheweatherwasstillnice,whichwasfinewithmebecauseIcouldn’twait

tobecomeMrs.GabrielQuinn.Wekepttheweddingsmall,invitingonlyabouta

hundredpeople.Itwaswhatwebothwanted.Somethingintimatewithfamilyand

afewfriends.

“Welcometothefamily.”Calebsmiledashekissedmycheekandgavemea

hug.

“Thanks,Caleb.”

“Welcometothefamily,Kate.Icouldn’thaveaskedforabetterwomanformy

sontomarry.”Hismothergrinned.

Gabriel and I both decided not to tell her about my past and we warned my

fathernottospeakofhis.Shewouldbeappalledandchangehermindaboutmeif

sheknewhowwereallymet.

****

Gabriel

I had never felt so much happiness in my life. It was time for us to have our

firstdancetogetherashusbandandwife.AssoonasCalebandhisbandbeganto

play,ItookKate’shandandledhertothedancefloorinthemiddleofthehuge

whitetentthatwasstrungwithwhitelights,decoratedtablesandchairs,andfresh

flowers that made it look exquisite. Rose had really outdone herself for our

specialday.

“HaveItoldyouhowbeautifulyoulooktoday?”IsmiledasIheldKateclose

tome.

“Aboutahundredtimes.Butyoucankeeptellingme.”Shegrinned.

“You don’t have to worry about that. I will spend my life telling you how

beautifulyouare.”Hislipsbrushedagainstmine.

“Youknow,weneverdiscussedhowmanykidswewanttohave,”shespoke.

“Doyouevenwantchildren?”

“OfcourseIdo,andIthinktwoorthreeisagoodnumber.Whatdoyouthink?”

Hesmirked.

“I think two or three is perfect. Maybe we could agree on two and then if it

happensathirdtime,thatwouldbeokay.”

“Ilikethatidea.”Ipressedmyforeheadagainsthers.

“Isninemonthstoosoon?”Shebitdownonherbottomlip.

Istaredatherforamomentandthenleanedinandwhisperedinherear,“Are

youtryingtotellmesomething?”

“I’mpregnant,Gabriel.Itookthetestthismorning.IthoughtmaybeIwasjust

latebecauseofalltheplanningweweredoingforthewedding.”

IslowlyclosedmyeyesasIpulledhercloserandheldheragainstme.

“Iamsohappy,andthethoughtofyoucarryingmychildjustmadeeverything

moreperfect.”

“Soyou’rehappy?”sheaskedassheslightlypulledawayfromme.

“Happyisn’tthewordtodescribewhatI’mfeelingrightnow.Ican’twaitto

holdourbabyinmyarmsandraiseafamilytogether.”

****

I had become the proud father of Elijah Matthew Quinn, future heir to Quinn

Hotels.Finally,mydreamofraisingafamilyinmytownhomehadcometrue.Just

whenIhadgivenuponfindingthewomanofmydreams,KateHarperwalkedinto

mylifeandgavemethetwomostpreciousgiftsofall:loveandmyson.Mylife

wascompleteandIwouldn’ttakeanyofitforgranted.

“Comeon,Elijah.WalktoDaddy.”IsmiledasIheldoutmyarmstohimfrom

acrossthelivingroom.

Kateslowlyletgoofhimandhetookafewstepstowardsmebeforehefellto

hiskneesandcrawledtherestofthewayintomyarms.

“Goodjob,buddy.You’llgetitsoonenough.”Ipickedhimupandkissedhis

head.“Ican’tbelievehe’sgoingtobeayear-oldtomorrow.”Asmilecrossedmy

faceasIwalkedovertowhereKatesatonthecouch.

“Iknow.He’sgrowingupsofast.”Shepouted.

“Before you know it, we’ll be free of diapers and bottles. Now that he’s

sleeping through the entire night, we can get some good sleep for ourselves.” I

smirkedasIkissedherlips.

Shelookedatmeandbitdownonherbottomlip.

“Iwouldn’tgettoousedtothatifIwereyou.”

“Kate,areyoutryingtotellmesomething?”Iaskedasmybrowarched.

Shethrewherhandsupintheairwithasmileonherface.

“Woohoo!I’mpregnantagain!”

IsetElijahdownonthefloorandwrappedmyarmsaroundherasexcitement

andjoyovertookme.

“Abeautifulwife,abeautifulson,andanotherbabyontheway.Lifeisgood,

Kate.Reallygood.”Ikissedthesideofherhead.“We’vebeensoblessed.”

“Wesurehave,Gabriel.Iloveyouandourlittlefamilysomuch.”

“Iloveustoo.Morethanwordscouldeverexpress.”Iplacedmyhandonher

belly.

BooksbySandiLynn

Ifyouhaven’talreadydoneso,pleasecheckoutmyotherbooks.Escapefrom

realityandintotheworldofromance.I’lltakeyouonajourneyoflove,pain,

heartacheandhappilyeverafters.

Millionaires:

TheForeverSeries(ForeverBlack,ForeverYou,ForeverUs,BeingJulia,Collin,AForeverChristmas,A

ForeverFamily)

Love,Lust&AMillionaire(WyattBrothers,Book1)

Love,Lust&Liam(WyattBrothers,Book2)

HisProposedDeal

LieNextToMe(AMillionaire’sLove,Book1)

WhenILiewithYou(AMillionaire’sLove,Book2)

ALoveCalledSimon

ThenYouHappened

TheSeductionofAlexParker

SomethingAboutLorelei

OneNightInLondon

TheException

CorporateA$$

ABeautifulSight

TheNegotiation

Defense

SecondChanceLove:

RememberingYou

SheWritesLove

LoveInBetween(LoveSeries,Book1)

TheUpsideofLove(LoveSeries,Book2)

Sports:

Lightning

AbouttheAuthor

SandiLynnisaNewYorkTimes,USATodayandWallStreetJournal

bestsellingauthorwhospendsallherdayswriting.Shepublishedherfirstnovel,
ForeverBlack,inFebruary2013andhasn’tstoppedwritingsince.Heraddictions
areshopping,goingtothegym,romancenovels,coffee,chocolate,margaritas,and
givingreadersanescapetoanotherworld.

Pleasecomeconnectwithherat:

www.facebook.com/Sandi.Lynn.Author

www.twitter.com/SandilynnWriter

www.authorsandilynn.com

www.pinterest.com/sandilynnWriter

www.instagram.com/sandilynnauthor

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6089757.Sandi_Lynn

Document Outline

Playing The Millionaire
Table of Contents
Chapter One
Chapter Two
Chapter Three
Chapter Four
Chapter Five
Chapter Six
Kate
Gabriel
Chapter Seven
Chapter Eight
Kate
Gabriel
Kate
Gabriel
Chapter Nine
Chapter Ten
Kate
Gabriel
Chapter Eleven
Gabriel
Chapter Twelve
Chapter Thirteen
Kate
Chapter Fourteen
Kate
Chapter Fifteen
Kate
Chapter Sixteen
Chapter Seventeen
Chapter Eighteen
Chapter Nineteen
Gabriel
Chapter Twenty
Gabriel
Chapter Twenty-One
Chapter Twenty-Two
Chapter Twenty-Three
Gabriel
Chapter Twenty-Four
Chapter Twenty-Five
Chapter Twenty-Six
Gabriel
Chapter Twenty-Seven
Chapter Twenty-Eight
Chapter Twenty-Nine
Chapter Thirty
Chapter Thirty-One
Gabriel
Chapter Thirty-Two
Chapter Thirty-Three
Kate
Chapter Thirty-Four
Five Days Later…
Chapter Thirty-Five
Gabriel
Chapter Thirty-Six
Chapter Thirty-Seven
Chapter Thirty-Eight
Gabriel
Chapter Thirty-Nine
Gabriel
Chapter Forty
Kate
Gabriel
Chapter Forty-One
Gabriel
Chapter Forty-Two
Gabriel
Chapter Forty-Three
Chapter Forty-Four
Gabriel
Kate
Gabriel
Books by Sandi Lynn
About the Author

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Document Outline