It was nearly a week after she had seen Renee in the Martinique Room that Cassy set out for the Halleys’ cottage. She considered taking a taxi or one of the hotel shuttles, but she decided the walk would do her good. The sun was just breaking through the clouds when she reached the cottage, which was less than a half mile down from where she had lived while she worked on the island.
Using the brass knocker mounted on the door, she decided that she had been lucky it hadn’t rained, after all.
“Cassy! Bonjour! It’s about time you showed yourself,” Renee scolded her, with a welcoming smile and kiss on both cheeks. She stepped back so that Cassy could enter the roomy three-bedroom cottage she shared with her husband and son, now that their older daughter no longer lived on the island. “Come inside, Cheri. Did you walk?”
“Yes. I decided to walk off some of the extra calories I have been indulging in lately.” Cassy giggled, “Lounging on the beach and shopping doesn’t exactly work up a sweat, if you know what I mean.”
Renee laughed. “Island men like a woman with a few curves on her.”
The cottage was as colorful and comfortable as Cassy remembered. On the bright pink, blue, and green braided area-rug was a large rattan sofa and matching love seat, cushioned in heavy dusty-rose cotton. Positioned in front of the bay windows were two deep, cushioned, floral-patterned armchairs. Large tropical plants were everywhere.
“Oh, Renee, I see you haven’t lost your talent with plants.” As always, Cassy was charmed by Renee’s lovely accent and natural beauty. Her speech, as well as her taste, was a delightful mixture of both her African and French roots. “Your ferns and the ficus trees are huge. I bet your garden is still as fabulous as ever.”
Renee laughed. She’d been busy arranging wild flowers in the vase on the side table near the windows when Cassy knocked. “It is so good to have you here. But, as you know, it takes no great talent. Of course, everything grows beautifully in Martinique, oui?” Ceiling fans hummed quietly overhead and the blinds were partly closed to keep the room cool and comfortable.
Cassy was not surprised by the Halleys’ prosperity. Gordan was more than a fair employer. He believed in only the best, which meant hiring talented people and paying accordingly. Kramer Corporation provided cottages for its staff. The Kramer hotels and resort complexes were almost cities within themselves.
“Please, sit down.”
“May I see your garden?”
“Oui! Come.”
The two were dressed much the same in cool gauze sleeveless dresses—Cassy’s was white piped in plum while Renee’s was orange. They hooked arms as Renee led the way through the cool dining room, past the large kitchen and out the screened backdoor. Birds fluttered high in the tree-lined border of the property and bougainvillea, hibiscus, and wild orchids were in abundance.
“Renee, it’s as beautiful as I remembered. And what was that delectable smell in the kitchen?”
“I was doing some baking earlier. Sit.” Renee indicated the lawn furniture positioned beneath a majestic palm tree, semi-enclosed by the flowering shrubs. Once they sat side by side on the slider, she said eagerly, “We have so much to catch up on. Tell me all about that wonderful inn of yours, that you wrote me about. Did you bring pictures?”
Cassy grinned. “As a matter of fact, I did. It’s called Parkside Garden Inn. You and Ralph must come to visit.”
She searched through her tote bag, before she pulled out a small photo album to give to her friend. As the two settled back, Cassy told Renee about the inn and showed her pictures of the rooms, the gardens, and her family including her little nephew.
“What a charming family. Everything is magnifique! And the roses. They are huge. Is this where you have your herb garden?” Renee asked, pointing to a photo.
“Yes. Just a few steps away from the kitchen door. I love it. My sister, Sarah, and I both enjoy gardening. But there is so much to do these days we hardly have any free time anymore. This is our dining room. As you can see, we chose the shades of pink that are in the rose garden since the room opens right into that section of the garden.”
“What a charming place—more like home than a hotel. Congratulations. You and Sarah have done well for yourselves.”
Cassy was practically beaming. “Thank you. It’s a tremendous amount of work, but we’re pleased.”
“Ralph and I will come for a visit the next time we’re in the States, I promise.”
“I would love that. I’d like you to meet my family.”
“It’s so good to be able to sit down together and talk. Tell me, do you only serve breakfast?”
“No, we have a fully staffed restaurant. We often have local clientele, especially during dinner on the weekends.” She laughed. “It keeps us busy.” Cassy smiled. “That little one is my great-niece, Mandy. That is my sister with her husband, Kurt. This was taken on their wedding day.”
“What a happy family. So much love.”
“Speaking of families, it seems as if yours is doing very well. Ralph told me about Ria and Andre. You must be thrilled.”
“Oui! Thanks to Gordan, both are thrilled with their jobs. Excusez-moi for a moment while I get the iced mint tea.”
After placing the photo album on a side table, Cassy chided herself because of the way her heart had raced at the mention of Gordan’s name. He was known for looking after his own. It was one of the reasons she believed he was so successful. He had always...
She made herself stop right there. You need to get over it, girl. She had gone out with Adam the past couple evenings and even managed to enjoy herself. Adam was good company and had made no demands on her. For that, she was grateful. She would be the first to admit that she was not ready for an emotional involvement with a new man. If only she had met him at another time when she...
“Here we are, Cheri.” Renee placed a tray on the table and poured the iced beverage.
“Thanks.” Cassy took a long drink. Eyeing the frosted lemon bars, she teased, “I thought this was your day off?”
Renee giggled. “Oui, but there is always enough time to make treats for those we love,” she said, as she poured the iced drink, then offered the pastry.
“Mmm,” Cassy said, tasting the bar. “Is Ralph working today?”
Renee shook her head. “No, he is out with...” She hesitated, then quickly added, “fishing with a friend.”
Taking a deep breath, Cassy sighed, “I’ve missed the island.”
“What made you come back?”
“The trip was a birthday gift from my family.” Cassy went on to explain about her sister’s difficult pregnancy and recovery.
“How are Sarah and the baby?”
“Wonderful.”
“The four of us used to have so much fun. Do you remember the times when Gordan took us out deep sea fishing on his boat?” She giggled. “You had that huge snapper on the line and had no idea what to do with it.”
Cassy looked away. “I’d rather not...remember.”
Renee took her hand. “What happened? You and Gordan were so happy for so long. Now suddenly you are both here on the island but you’re not together.”
Cassy jumped to her feet and walked over to one of the rose bushes. Caressing a single bloom, she bent to inhale the fragrant scent, then she said, “It doesn’t matter anymore. It’s over.”
“Non, I don’t think either one of you is happy. Look at you. The instant I mention the man’s name you start trembling. This is not idle curiosity. Please, perhaps I can be of help. Ralph and I have had our share of disagreements.”
She tried to smile at her friend, but failed. Perhaps, Renee was right. “This is more than a disagreement.”
“Is that why I’ve seen you with another man? Is he the reason you’ve broken it off with Gordan?”
“No! Our breakup has nothing to do with Adam. I met him here, my first day back in Martinique. We’re friends—nothing more.” Cassy shivered, rubbing goose pimples on her arms despite the sun overhead.
Renee came up to her and gave her a hug. “Pardon. I didn’t mean to upset you.”
Cassy returned the hug, needing the comfort. “I’m sorry, also. But I had no other choice. I could not go on with things being the way they were between us. Gordan has become so successful—so busy. He didn’t have time for a relationship. His work, his son, and Jillian, his assistant—whom he spends ten to twelve hours a day with—have taken up all his time.” She shrugged. “It had come to the point I started to wonder what he needed me for.” She admitted, “I had been working long hours also. And I could no longer get away easily, especially when my sister was ill.” Cassy bit her lip before admitting, “It didn’t seem to matter to him if we don’t see each other for months and months. Besides, we want two different things from life. He doesn’t want a wife or more children. I started asking myself, what was the point of it all. I want those things.”
“Family is very much a part of your life. It’s only natural that you would want a husband and children, eventually.”
“We were happy, the first couple of years. Then everything changed. It wasn’t all his fault. I don’t mean to say that. For too long we didn’t have time to even see each other, and we settled for telephone calls. That was not enough.”
“Come, let’s sit down.” Renee ushered her back to the glider. “Relax. We’ll speak of other things. Pleasant things. What is your menu like at your inn?”
They talked about cooking and family, for a time.
“How have you and Ralph remained close for so many years? The two of you are still so much in love.”
Renee giggled like a young girl. “We work at it. We always take time away from work, just to be together and think only about each other. We always vacation alone, no kids. Something we both look forward to.”
“That’s wonderful. My sister has been lucky, also. She fell in love all over again with her high school sweetheart. And now they’re married and very happy. So I know it can happen.”
“Perhaps it has happened for you?”
Cassy didn’t even consider exploring that avenue of thought. It was simpler, less painful, not to believe.
“It is not easy to stop loving someone, my friend, even when our minds tell us it is for the best.”
Cassy managed to force a smile, deciding to change their focus. “I take it Ralph will bring dinner tonight. What if the fish are not biting?”
“I have confidence in him.” Then she shrugged. “But just in case they all get away from him, I have a pork roast in the freezer.” They both laughed. “Won’t you stay and share our evening meal? It will give us a chance to cook together again.”
“I’d love to. It seems like ages since we’ve played around in the kitchen. I never would have gotten the hang of local cuisine without your help. I’ve even made several of your favorites at the inn, with wonderful results.”
“Marveilleax! How often do you change your menu? I imagine that you have some returning guests who expect certain dishes to be on...”
They heard Ralph calling Renee from inside the house. “Where are you, Cheri?”
“In the garden,” she called. She whispered, “Want to make a wager—fish or pork?”
Cassy giggled, “I’d probably lose.”
Ralph’s large frame filled the back doorway when he saw Cassy. With a huge smile on his dark face, he said, “Cassy! It’s about time you came to visit.”
Before she could formulate an answer, she caught sight of the taller man behind him. Cassy’s entire body stiffened as her eyes locked with Gordan’s an instant before Ralph swept her off her feet.
“Ralph, put me down!” Cassy laughed.
She could not believe her bad luck. Why today of all days? She hadn’t heard from or seen him in days. Even though Gordan had been friends with the Halleys for years, she was shocked that he had taken valuable time away from his precious business to go fishing with Ralph.
Ralph chuckled, kissing both her cheeks. “It is good to have you here in our home. It has been too long!”
Renee greeted Gordan with a kiss on both cheeks. “Where is our dinner? What! You two been out all day and no fish? Do I have to get the roast out of the freezer?” With her hands on her hips, she looked from one man to the other. “Well?”
Gordan laughed, but his gaze was on Cassy. He said, “Hello, Cassy. Renee, you’ll find four large snappers waiting in the kitchen for your special touch.”
“Splendid. We’ll have a special dinner. Cassy and I were just talking about cooking together again.” She asked Cassy, “Ready to get started?” From over her shoulder, as she urged Cassy along with her toward the house, she said, “Gordan, you’re staying to eat with us, aren’t you?”
“I’m looking forward to it.”
“Wonderful. Cheri, get Gordan a cold beer, s’il vous plait.”
Cassy was struggling with her feelings. What could she do? She couldn’t back out now after she’d promised to stay. Why did he have to spoil it for her? She had been looking forward to a relaxing meal with old friends.
Once they were in the kitchen out of hearing range, Renee said, “I’m sorry. I had no idea Ralph would bring Gordan home with him. And I couldn’t very well not invite him to stay.”
Cassy patted her friend’s arm. “Don’t worry about it. After all, we’re only talking about a meal. Now, let me wash my hands and we can get started.”
In no time, Cassy, covered by an apron, began mixing and kneading dough for an exquisitely flaky pie crust, while Renee washed and seasoned the fish and prepared an array of vegetables. They chatted while they worked, careful not to mention the man that Cassy could see through the picture window relaxing in the garden with his host.
“Hmm, something smells good,” Andre Halley said, as he came into the kitchen. He kissed his mother’s cheek and grinned at Cassy.
“One of your favorites. But I thought you had a date tonight,” Renee replied.
“I do. I stopped to change. What’s that?” he asked, eyeing the fluffy, meringue-topped pie Cassy was putting into the oven.
“Banana crème.”
“Too bad you’re not staying for dinner,” Renee teased.
“Mama! You’ve got to save me some.”
Renee shrugged. “You know your father.”
“You’re a hard woman. Talk to her, Cassy.” With that, he was gone.
“I think it’s only a matter of time until I’ll be a mother-in-law.”
“Really? Who?”
“Gretchen Divan. She works in the hotel’s business office. She transferred in from the Jamaica hotel.’’
“An island girl?”
“She’s from New York.”
Cassy helped her friend carry in the china and cutlery and table linen into the dining room. “Sounds interesting.” Together, they set the table.
“Will you call the men?” Renee asked, when they were ready to serve.
Cassy nodded, taking off her apron. She took a deep breath, wishing she were anywhere but near Gordan. Her stomach was already in knots, and they hadn’t even sat down to eat.
A meal shared with old and dear friends should have been enjoyable. Unfortunately, she could not get past her awareness of the man seated directly across the table. She did no more than pick at her food. She told herself that she was glad that everyone else seemed to be having a great time.
She couldn’t imagine being more uncomfortable. Every single time she looked up, her eyes collided with Gordan’s. She was the one that looked away. Why didn’t he just leave?
The ladies went into the sitting room while the men cleared the table. Cassy busied herself by studying Renee’s collection of cookbooks on the bookshelf. It was an effort to keep a smile on her face. The task was becoming more difficult with each minute that passed.
Cassy asked, restlessly wandering from one plant to the next, “Are you sure you wouldn’t like me to help with the dishes?”
“That’s Ralph’s job—loading the dishwasher. Besides, you’re our guest. I want you to sit beside me and try to relax.”
Although Cassy sat, she was far from tranquil. “I really should be getting back to the hotel. It’s getting late.”
“Oh, here is Ralph with the coffee and your delicious dessert. I can hardly wait. Your technique with pastries is flawless. I have to have another lesson before you leave the island.”
Cassy smiled her thanks. “That’s easily arranged.”
“This is a real treat. Wouldn’t you agree, Gordan?” Ralph asked, placing the tray on the low table in front of his wife.
“There is no better way to end an exquisite meal,” Gordan said, smoothly.
Cassy clasped her hands in her lap but made no comment.
After the praise had died down, and they had indulged their senses in the creamy dessert, they chatted about the changes to the island, as Ralph refilled their cups with more fragrant, strong, hot coffee.
Cassy had had enough. Rising, she said, “I really must get back.” She kissed both of her hosts. “Thank you, both, for a lovely evening. You two always make me feel so welcome.”
“What’s the hurry? Another engagement later?” Gordan asked, pointedly. They were all on their feet now.
“No, but it’s late.” Furious with herself for answering, she said, “Besides, it’s a long walk back to the hotel.”
Gordan said, “I’d be happy to drive you.”
“Un moment, I’ll get your purse from the garden,” Ralph offered.
When she spoke to Gordan, she chose not to meet his piercing gaze, but focused instead on his bearded chin. “It’s a beautiful night. I prefer walking. Besides, you haven’t finished your coffee.”
“I’m truly sorry,” Renee said, close to Cassy’s ear. “Must you leave so soon?”
She whispered back, “It’s not your fault. I have to go.”
In a normal voice, Renee said, “I enjoyed our visit, Cassy. I hope we can get together again before you go back home.”
Accepting her tote bag, she squeezed both of their hands in turn, before she said, “Good night.” Then she hurried out.
Cassy tried as hard as she could to concentrate on nothing more important than the gravel road winding its way toward the hotel. The road was almost deserted at this time of day. The sound of the sea was close at hand.
She had forgotten her sun hat, but she was not about to go back for it. She would rather toss herself into the sea than face another evening like this one. It had been so difficult that she would not have been surprised if she had battle scars. Since he would not leave, she should have. But she could not have hurt the Halleys that way. They were good people.
She tried telling herself that seeing Gordan again had absolutely no effect on her; unfortunately, she knew better. Her knees were still shaking, and she did not want to recall the way her heart had pounded when his eyes lingered on her throughout the meal.
She didn’t have to remember exactly how his pale-blue knit shirt had hugged his wide chest and muscular arms, or the way soft, well-washed jeans had hugged his muscular thighs and long legs. There was not a thing wrong with her eyesight.
Furious, she quickened her steps. She reminded herself that she did not make her decisions based on her estrogen levels. She had left Gordan Kramer for a reason that didn’t have a thing to do with the way a pair of jeans cupped his prominent sex. He might look like a man, but he was nothing more than a well-oiled machine that thrived on its work. Why did he have to force his company on...
“Cassy...”
She jumped at the sound of the male voice coming from the open car window. Refusing to glance his way or so much as acknowledge she had heard him, she kept right on walking.
“Cassy...”
When he didn’t take the hint and drive away, she flung from over her shoulder, “I don’t want a ride.”
Gordan didn’t say another word. Pressing on the accelerator, he sent the sleek, convertible black sports car moving ahead of her.
“Hallelujah!”
He’d finally gotten the point. After a look at the thickening clouds and the ominous rumble of thunder overhead, she hurried her pace even more. When she rounded the blind curve in the road that was blocked by towering flowering shrubs, she saw Gordan. He was leaning against the car, his arms casually crossed over his chest.
Enraged by what she considered sheer male arrogance, she hissed, “What part of ‘no’ don’t you understand?” Ignoring the deepening shadows, she persisted, “I told you...” She’d broken off so abruptly that her teeth clinked together. Gordan held her photo album in one hand and her straw hat in the other.
“It looks like we’re in for rain. I thought you might need these. Renee found them after you left,” he said, calmly.
“Thanks,” she said, begrudgingly. Determined to put distance between them, she paused only long enough to collect her belongings.
“I’m not letting you walk back to the hotel alone. We either walk together or ride. The choice is yours.”
That got her attention. She hesitated, then said, “I don’t believe I need your permission.”
“We’re not in New York or DC, but you’re still a beautiful woman and you’re alone at night.”
“It’s not even fully dark yet.”
“I’m not leaving you, baby.”
Cassy raised her chin, preparing for a confrontation, then looked away. In fact, she was silent so long that he said her name.
“Does everything have to always go your way, Gordan?”
She had barely taken half dozen steps when he pocketed his keys and fell into step behind her. “Why are you doing this?”
“You know why.”
Cassy pressed her lips together.
“I really enjoyed being with Ralph and Renee. It’s been a long time since the four of us spent time together. We used to have a ball together. I’ve been doing a lot of thinking these past few days. You’re right, Cassy. I’ve been taking too many things for granted—you especially. I’m sorry.”
She didn’t make a comment, but merely kept her eyes straight ahead while trying not to internalize what he’d said.
“I said...”
“I heard you. But it’s too late. I don’t care anymore.”
Gordan went on to say, “I’ve done a lot of remembering. There was a time when we both were so hopeful, so pleased we had finally found each other. We were a lot alike. We’d both had bad experiences with someone else. We were determined to get it right this time.”
“So?”
“I wanted you from the first moment I saw you, baby. You were beautiful, but it was much more than the physical. You were warm and rich in spirit, generous with your smiles and laughter.” He chuckled, “Do you remember how surprised you were the first time I asked you out? You asked me if I were serious.”
“I was thrown off balance. I thought you were captivated by my cooking. Wanted me to become your personal chef.’’
“I was captivated by you. You were different from the other women I had dated.”
“Well, you got one thing right. I was very different from the pencil-thin high-maintenance model you were seeing at the time. Her shoes cost more than everything I wore on our first date. I couldn’t compete.”
“You didn’t have to try. It was you, Cassy. I wanted to be with you—only you. That hasn’t changed. You’ve never given me reason to doubt that it was me you wanted. Not my income or level of success. It has always meant a lot to me. I just haven’t taken the time to tell you how much it has meant recently. You’re right. I’ve been neglectful.”
Cassy closed her eyes briefly as if she could escape the sincerity she heard in his voice. She forced herself to say, “It no longer matters.” She felt badly that she could not be completely open with him. But how could she when she could not let him weaken her resolve. She sought protection in anger. “I’ve had about as much as one woman can take.”
Quirking a brow, he asked, “Why? Because I won’t let you walk all over me? Or because I won’t take no for an answer?”
Cassy’s mouth dropped open. Then she jerked her chin up in a show of defiance. “Because you refuse to take me seriously.’’
“That is not true.”
“It is true! You haven’t heard what I’ve been telling you for months!”
“I heard you, baby. I just didn’t know it was so important to you.” He turned her so he could look at her in the meager light. “Cassy...”
She tried to push him away.
“Stop it!” he exclaimed.
“We don’t have to touch in order to talk!” she replied.
His jaw was tight. “You’ve done everything you can think of to push me away from you. But some things you can’t hide. I felt the way you responded to me the other night on the balcony. Everything may not have gone your way in our relationship, but that doesn’t change how we feel about each other.” He whispered close to her ear. “I missed you, baby. It’s been so long since we’ve held each other, loved each other. When are you going to stop punishing us both? We can work this out, if we try.”
Here they were in the middle of a desert road, halfway between the hotel and the Halleys’ cottage, and she was shaking like a leaf in a gale. None of it was making very much sense.
Cassy tried to ignore the longing in his dark eyes. She said, “I don’t want to try. All I want is to forget we ever met.”
“You can’t mean that, Cassy.”
“It doesn’t matter anymore, Gordan. None of it matters. You can’t have everything you want. I’m not part of the million-dollar corporation you are used to controlling. You can’t have me.”
Gordan’s muscles went taut as he fought the urge to prove his point by pulling her against him and grinding his mouth against hers. Instead, he lowered his head until he was nearly eye-level with her. “I know how to go after what I want. Make no mistake, lady. I want you back.”
“I’m not one of your business projects. I’m a flesh and blood woman. I want to be first in my man’s life. I won’t ever again make do with less.”
They glared at each other as the sky cracked with lightning.
“This is crazy! You’re leaving an expensive car with the top down on the side of a road to prove a point. One of us needs to use a little common sense.” Cassy whirled and started back.
Gordan followed, deep in thought. The car or the threat of rain was not the problem. His inability to fill her needs were. Again and again, she had flung the accusation at him that he didn’t consider her a priority in his life. The lady was right. He had made her a priority—that was, until he felt she was firmly fixed into his life. Once he knew he had her, he had gradually let business demands and his son come before her.
How many times had he assured himself that she would understand why he had to fly here or there and not meet her as they had planned? But she had not understood. And he was now facing a future without her.
Gordan reached the car ahead of her, opening the passenger door for her. He waited until she was inside before closing the door and going around to the driver’s side.
Gordan had barely managed to get the car top up before the rain started. He made no effort to start the car, but sat as if he were deep in thought.
“Is there a problem? Shouldn’t we get moving before it gets any worse?”
“Can it get any worse? Nothing has been right for me since you walked out on me in Atlanta.”
“Don’t. We’ve both said enough.”
“It hasn’t all been said.” He traced a lean finger along her jaw line. “Baby, I had no idea that you weren’t happy.”
“But I tried to tell you.”
He shook his head. “Evidently, I was not paying attention. I assumed that you had been busy, absorbed in all that you had to do while your sister was unable to work. Later, I thought you were just caught up in the new baby. I didn’t realize you were unhappy with me and our relationship.” He whispered, “I assumed once things settled down around you, then things would go back to the way they had always been—with you flying to see me on the weekends. I was wrong.”
In the deepening shadows, she could just barely make out the despair etched on his strong African features.
“Baby, I’m truly sorry.” He caressed her cheek and was grateful that she did not pull away. “At least, let me make it up to you—please.”
She watched sheets of rain pelt the windshield. Eventually, she said, “Your way of making up means giving me something expensive. That’s not what I want. Expensive gifts won’t change anything between us. What really matters to me can’t be bought.”
“Yeah, I finally figured that out about you,” he said, dryly. “Sorry, I’ve been so dense. When I said let me make it up to you, I meant let me try and change our situation. I want us to start getting to know each other all over again. That involves spending time together.”
Cassy blinked back tears. There was a time when that was all she wanted—it would have been enough. Unfortunately, there was no longer a simple solution to the problem.
Gordan’s stomach felt as if it were in knots as he waited for her response. He consoled himself with the assurance that she was here in the car with him, listening to his request.
“We’ll only end up hurting each other more. Frankly, I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I can handle any more heartache.”
Gordan’s heart ached, all right. He struggled with a combination of impatience and frustration. He ached to have her back where she belonged—in his arms.
Suddenly they were more like sparring partners than lovers. He had advanced; she retaliated. He had insisted; she had refused out right. The argument left him cold and unapproachable while she had been burning hot with temper and outrage. And they both were alone and hurting.
He kept his hands braced on the steering wheel when he said, “We’ve both made mistakes. But the feelings have not changed. At least, they haven’t for me. Cassy, I still love you. Let me prove to you that I can change. Will you give me that chance?”
Cassy whispered, “I don’t know. I just don’t know right now. Please, just take me back to the hotel.”
Gordan held the wheel so tight, his hands hurt from the pressure. A sob rose in his throat, but he managed to suppress the raw sound. He forced himself to start the engine and put the car into gear.
How could he let her go? He had no idea how many times he asked himself that question before he brought the car to a stop in the wide, well-lit drive. Without a word, he handed the keys to the uniformed attendant. He waited silently while Cassy swung her gorgeous legs out of the car.
Side by side, they entered the luxurious lobby that was busy with activity, even at this hour of the evening. As they crossed the lobby, Gordan said nothing. He escorted her to the bank of public elevators.
“Good night.” He would have walked away if Cassy had not touched his arm. He stopped, his eyes immediately locked with hers. “Yes?”
Cassy winced from the pain mirrored there. She had to clear her throat before she could say, “Tell me why,” she was careful to whisper so she would not be overheard, “you think spending time together will make a difference.”
Gordan didn’t speak. He couldn’t just then. He did not trust his voice. He was in too much pain.
“Gordan...” she persisted.
Absently, he stroked his bearded jaw. He finally said, so quietly that she had to lean forward in order to hear him, “We deserve to at least try it. We owe each other that much after so many years together.”
“Okay,” she reluctantly agreed. “Would you care to take a drive with me tomorrow—perhaps have lunch out? Doesn’t matter where. Perhaps, Club Nautique-Les Pieds Dans l’Eau? Or Le Robert?”
Gordan’s dark eyes caressed her face, then he grinned. “Yes. What time?”
“Is ten too early?”
Gordan heard the challenge in her voice and knew she expected him to back down. The next day was Monday— a working day. Well, she was wrong. No matter what was on his schedule, it was not as important as she was to him. He had a point to make.
“I’ll pick you up at ten.”
Cassy nodded, before she walked away.
Gordan made no effort to follow her, but he followed the sexy sway of her soft, round bottom until she disappeared from view.
He went over to the courtesy telephones and lifted a receiver. The telephone rang several times without answer. He had just put it down when he felt a tug on his arm. He turned with a smile, hoping to see Cassy.
“Hello,” Jillian said. “Have a nice day on the boat?”
“Hi. I just called your room.”
“Oh, really?” she beamed, liking the sound of that. “Would you like to join me for a nightcap? I was on my way to the Sunset Lounge.”
“Fine.” Gordan fell into step with her. Jillian casually looped her arm through his. “Did you enjoy your day off?”
Gordan shrugged. What he wanted was to be with Cassy. He had spent most of his day wondering if she was spending her day with Adam Foster. He had not been able to relax and enjoy being on the water. He’d been thrilled that he allowed Ralph to talk him into staying for dinner.
Finally, he could breathe a little easier. Cassy was willing to give him a chance. He was determined to make the most of it. When they entered the low-lit seclusion of the lounge, they found empty seats at one of the small tables against the wall. Soft music was playing in the background.
Once they had ordered their drinks, Jillian leaned forward, aware of the way her tank-styled black, knit dress dipped low in front. “Why did you call? Or should I ask, what did you have in mind?” Her dark lashes flickered seductively down over lovely dark eyes.
Gordan looked surprised when she repeated his name. “Did you say something?”
“You called my room?”
“Yeah. Did anything important come up today?”
“Nothing unusual. Trudy called. She will be back at her desk in the morning, and the latest figures on the South African project were faxed in. The sea island construction ran into a problem with the contractors, but Wil has flown down to take care of it. Lingston called. He didn’t say it, but I suspect he’s after the management spot in Jamaica. My bet is that he’s heard that Paul Smith is next in line. You know how the gossip mill works at corporate. There was a call from your broker. A call from your son. I left a written report of what happened today and the latest reports with Bradford.”
“Thanks.” He pulled out a small leather notepad and pen from his pocket and began outlining instructions for the rest of the week. He ended with, “Cancel all my appointments and conference calls for the week.”
Jillian’s eyes had gone wide but she quickly took notes on what needed to be done. Then she almost asked, “But what are you...,” then, at the last moment, thought better of questioning him.
Gordan leaned back in his chair, then said, “As of now, I’m on vacation.”
“For how long?”
Gordan lifted a brow. “Until I tell you differently. You’re in charge of day to day operations. Management will report to Wil. You’ll leave a written report with Bradford at the end of the day. I will contact you when necessary—not the other way around. I expect you to work with Trudy without problems.”
“But...”
Gordan held up his hand. The cocktail waitress put down their drinks and left. “What’s the matter, Jillian? Don’t you think you can handle the office on your own?” There was no doubt that he had issued a challenge.
Jillian straightened her spine, dropping her lashes—thus hiding her fury. He’d been grooming her for a vice presidency. This was her opportunity to prove herself. This would be her chance to go it alone.
“I know I can handle it,” she said, with confidence.
“Good, then we don’t have a problem.” Gordan ignored his drink as he stood, reached into his pocket, and dropped a bill on the table. “‘Night.”
Jillian watched as Gordan disappeared through the entranceway. She was furious. This vacation had everything to do with that empty-headed little witch. Did he think she didn’t know? He was going after Cassy.
How could he be so blind? Why couldn’t he see that that cook was not woman enough for him? She lacked the sophistication, the elegance, of a true lady. She was not the kind of woman meant to be on the arm of a man like Gordan Kramer.
There was not a doubt in her mind that this sudden need for time off had everything to do with Cassandra Mosley. The woman had managed to tie him up in knots, yet again. Jillian was so angry she wanted to throw something. She settled for draining the fancy fruit juice and rum concoction in front of her. She had made her play and failed. But she had not given up—not yet. There had to be a way.
Here she was on one of the most romantic islands in the world. There was more moonlight, dark-blue star-filled sky, and ocean breeze than any one woman could stand without a man. Correction. She took note of a funny-looking little man, who was seated beside a dumpy woman, staring at her. Jillian suppressed a shiver of revulsion.
Taking her drink, she weaved her way between the tables, her destination the highly polished glass and chrome bar. Settling herself on one of the velvet covered bar chairs, she motioned to the bartender. “Another one, please.” The seats on either side of her were both empty. She told herself she needed the privacy to think—to plan. She would figure out a way to stop the hussy in her tracks. They had already broken up. But that was only half the battle. They were not sleeping together—or, at least, she hoped not.
What to do? She was fast running out of options, if she wanted the man and her job. Jillian had worked hard to position herself near the power, in this case, Gordan Kramer. She had succeeded far beyond her wildest dreams. She was not only his personal assistant, but was close to becoming one of the company’s corporate vice presidents. What an accomplishment that would be if she made it at thirty-three. That had not been her original goal.
After coming to work for Gordan, her goals had changed—or, rather, she had changed. She’d always been on the lookout for a powerful man—someone who could afford to keep her in jewels and the luxury she was entitled to. Gordan had been perfect. But she soon discovered her beauty alone was not enough of an attraction. He surrounded himself with competent people.
When it came to women he was attracted to intelligence. He admired a woman who knew how to handle herself—a woman who didn’t need a man but merely wanted one.
Determined to prove herself, she moved up in the company by using her brain power and was proud of her accomplishments. In all honesty, her only frustration had been that Gordan had not made a single move toward her. There was always a professional distance—a distance that she hated, but grudgingly respected him for.
The man was a machine. He not only thrived on business, but excelled at it. Gordan Kramer was Kramer Corporation, that’s why his sudden need to take an unplanned vacation was disturbing.
This little holiday of his would give her the opportunity to show her stuff. What an opportunity. But she wanted more. She wanted the man himself. They would make such an unstoppable team. Why couldn’t he see that?
Jillian knew she was every bit as beautiful as Cassandra Mosley. And she was also smarter. She knew the hotel business. She would be an asset to him. If only she hadn’t left so many hints; she had told her father to expect that the company and the man would be hers someday. But she had been so hopeful after Gordan’s breakup with Cassy. She knew it was merely a matter of time until he looked her way.
Well, she just had to work harder, like her father had taught her how to get what she wanted. She could earn her father’s approval. And she would have it all—the love, the approval, and the acceptance she craved.
If only Cassy would give up and go back to California. It was all her fault, anyway. Why did she have to vacation in Martinique, right under Gordan’s nose? What Jillian could not understand was that the girl had had him, yet she was not smart enough to keep him. What more did Cassy want? All she had to do was smile at the man and he would buy her anything she wanted—cars, houses, expensive jewels—anything.
As she nursed her drink, she wondered what it would be like to have that kind of love and devotion directed her way.
She had considered his younger brother, Wilham, but quickly dismissed it. Although he was more approachable than his older brother, he was also rough around the edges. He liked to get his hands dirty—he liked the construction end of the business. He did not have the smooth sophistication of the older man. It was a shame.
She let out a soft sigh, lifting her drink and sipping. The man a few seats down caught her interest. He looked familiar, but she could not quite place him. Where had she seen him before? He didn’t work for the resort, so where?
Jillian smiled. He was the man who had been lunching with Cassy. He was the new man in Cassy’s life. Yet, tonight he looked as alone and melancholy as she felt.
Just how serious was he about Cassy? How often did they see each other? Were they lovers? And how much did Gordan know?
Jillian eased from her chair and moved down the bar. “Is this seat taken?” She had to ask twice before she gained his attention.
Adam lifted his head from the draft beer he’d been brooding into and met the eyes of a beautiful woman. “No, not at all.”
Jillian smiled as she sat beside him and crossed her shapely legs. “Vacation or business?”
“Vacation,” he supplied, returning his attention to his beer.
“I’m Jillian Harris,” she said, offering him a slim-fingered, manicured hand.
“Adam—Adam Foster,” he smiled, taking her hand. “Would you care for another drink?”
Jillian shook her head. “I’m fine.” The conversational ball dropped then. Since he made no effort to revive it, she said, “Are you enjoying the hotel and resort? We at Kramer House do try to please.”
Adam’s brow lifted. “No problems. So, you work for the hotel?”
Jillian smiled. “I work for Gordan Kramer. I’m his personal assistant.”
“I see,” Adam said, dryly.
“Did I say something wrong?” she asked, all wide-eyed and innocent.
“Kramer,” was all he said.
“Now I know where I saw you before. You were lunching with Cassandra Mosley. Are you close friends?”
“Friends, yes.”
“A friend can make a vacation very romantic, if it’s the right friend.”
Adam shrugged. “Are you sure you wouldn’t care for another drink?”
“No, but thank you. How long have you known Cassy? Or are you from Oakland?”
“We met here at Le Lamentin airport. We shared a cab to the hotel. You’re full of questions, Jillian. May I ask why?”
She smiled, while quietly assessing him. She stared into his deep-set, intelligent, dark-brown eyes before moving on to his firm, strong chin. Her gaze lingered on his thick, well-shaped mouth. This was no fool to be easily led. She dropped her long, silky dark-brown lashes as she decided just how much she needed to tell him. If she clammed up, would he do the same?
“What do you do, Adam?”
“I’m a corporate lawyer.” He named a well-known and profitable computer company as one of his clients. “Another question, not an answer.”
She smiled, seductively. “I’ve worked for Gordan for nearly six years now—and cared for him almost as long. I suppose curiosity got the better of me. When I saw you with his ex-lady, well...” She let her voice slip away.
Adam studied her at length, from her pretty eyes and her high-sculpted cheekbones, to her small nose and pouty, full lips. Her long, dark-auburn hair had been swept up into an elegant chignon. He said somewhat dryly, “Kramer is a very lucky man. He has two gorgeous women in his corner. Is the brother aware of your interest?”
“Somewhat. It was my understanding that Cassy’s involvement with him was over and that she has moved on,” she said, expectantly.
“The possibilities are endless.”
“Excuse me?”
“I don’t betray a confidence.”
“Even when it might prove beneficial?”
“Even then.”
“Perhaps if we put our heads together, we might be able to swing the odds in our direction.”
“Sorry. I’m not in the game-playing business. Good night, Ms. Harris.”