Alec

Will what brought them together now drive them apart?

A sexy BBW, planned pregnancy romance by Katie Dowe of BWWM Club.

Beautiful plus-sized African American actress Nadine Manning thought she had it all with her successful career and handsome multi-billionaire husband Alec Ritter…

But when their relationship goes public, she’s not prepared for the media frenzy that ensues.

Nor Alec’s jealous ex who’s determined to get in their way!

This has all put a strain on her relationship with Alec…

And now that Nadine has given birth, she not only has to worry about her life, but that of her son!

Was the pregnancy - something they had been looking forward to - going to be the end of their relationship?

Or will Alec be there for his wife and prove that love conquers all in the end?

Find out in this emotional yet sexy romance by Katie Dowe of BWWM Club.

Suitable for over 18s only due to sex scenes so hot, you'll start wishing for your own multi-billionaire husband!

Tip: Search BWWM Club on Amazon to see more of our great books.

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Chapter 1

“Let’s give a very big shout-out to our special guest: The beautiful and talented star of the hit series: Forever Yours – Ms. Nadine Manning!”

Amidst the thunderous applause, the plus-sized beauty made her way out onto the stage, blowing kisses to the cheering audience. “Wow! I feel so loved.” Leaning into the embrace of the show’s host, Nadine offered her winning smile, dimples on both cheeks.

“That’s because you are, darling.” Diana Surry, the founder and hostess of the very popular talk show – ‘It’s Diana!’, remarked as she clasped her hands before taking her seat. “Love the dress.”

“Oh, this old thing?” Nadine grinned as the audience cheered again. “Just something Monique Romano and her team threw together. Yes, girl, I’m throwing it out there even though the Romano brand needs no advert from me.”

“Nadine, I must say you look gorgeous and really, really happy. You’ve been nominated for several awards; how does that feel? I have to admit that watching you on screen playing the role of a successful businesswoman who kicks ass in the workplace yet is at the mercy of the man she is going out with.

You wheel and deal at the company, make tough decisions, and yet, you’re somehow allowing this man to walk all over you.”

Nadine laughed, dark brown eyes twinkling. “It’s called acting, honey, and I can assure you I’m not like that in real life. Never have been.”

“You know I’m going to delve into your personal life.”

“No. I would never have guessed.”

Diana smiled at the woman, sparing a glance at the avid looks on the audience’s faces. “You’re involved with the very hot and eligible multi-billionaire investor Alec Ritter.”

“I am.”

“A whirlwind romance that has resulted in you living together.”

“That’s correct.” Turning her face to the camera, she smiled. “Hey, sweetie, I know you’re watching and hoping I don’t reveal any intimate details. Yes, we’ve made the big decision to share the same space.

His penthouse is much, much nicer than my cramped apartment anyway.” She smiled into the camera. “Also, he puts up with the fact that I’m a diva at times.”

“We have it on very good authority that you’re the opposite of a diva. Alec shies away from the limelight, but you bask in it. You’re obviously the polar opposites of each other. How’s it working out?”

“Splendidly. We’re trying to keep our relationship out of the press, something that’s incredibly difficult to do. Alec has business interests that span the globe, and right now, he’s in some delicate negotiations with the government.”

“Not to mention the fact your series is taking the viewing public by storm. How do you balance your fame and your relationship with a man who’s not only extremely attractive but extraordinarily wealthy? You’re two very busy people.

You go out on shoots, sometimes out of the country, and he has a conglomerate to run. How do you strike a balance?”

Shaking back her dark brown weave, Nadine considered for a minute. “We met at a time when I was in the spotlight. I’d gone from being just an actress getting bit parts to becoming the lead in a wildly popular series. I grew up with a single mom who had to work two jobs just to put food on the table for my brother and me.

That kept us humble. We’re church-going folks – Mama is a firm believer in a higher power. When I met my man, he was just coming out of a painful relationship, but something clicked between us, and before we realized it, we were together.”

“It happened like that!” She snapped her fingers. “It had us reeling. We recognized the fact that we’re both extremely busy people and now, we make an effort to spend some alone time together.

We go out on dates, and sometimes we spend time holed up in the apartment, doing nothing but just spending time together. He loves old black-and-white films and has a fondness for the classics.”

“Does he watch your series?”

Nadine laughed and clapped her hands together, “If he didn’t, he’d be a dead man.”

“What does he think of your character?”

“Every time he watches, he’s amazed at how unlike my character I am.”

“What about the love scenes?” Diana asked her curiously. “There’re some pretty steamy love scenes in the plot.”

Nadine laughed again. “He knows it’s just my job.”

“Tell me about the rumors that you and the leading man were involved?”

“Just rumors,” Nadine said firmly. “I’m committed to my man, and he knows that.”

“Any wedding bells in the future?”

Nadine shook her head. “We’re just getting to know each other and not rushing it.”

“What’s next for Nadine Manning?”

“Just concentrating on my relationship and basking in the success of the show.”

“Nadine, you’re in the spotlight and have been for quite some time. You’ve seen what showbiz has done to couples. What advice do you have for people in your position? For someone who just wants to get married and keep the relationship going?”

“Wow!” She shook her head, sending hair flying. “That’s quite a serious question and should be posed to someone who has a lot more experience.” Her face became sober. “I can only speak for myself. Alec and I are in love; I know it might sound cliche and kind of impossible since we just met six months ago, but we love each other.

I’ve been so busy trying to get my career going that I never had time for relationships, but now, my heart is involved, and when that happens, you try and put everything into it. I love spending time with him. He makes me laugh and doesn’t treat me like a celebrity. He also doesn’t let me trample all over him.

I’m just his girl, and he’s just my guy. It’s that simple. We don’t put a lot of pressure on each other. He’s super-rich, but that isn’t the focal point of our lives. He knows I’m not into him for his money, and that’s something. When we’re together, it’s just us. I guess that’s the only way I can explain it.”

*****

“She has presence, and her personality is apparent even through the screen,” Michael murmured as his friend touched the remote, and the screen went black. “You could’ve called in and made it even more exciting.”

“Not my style.” A smile flitted around Alec’s lips as he went to pour two glasses of whiskey. “She wouldn’t expect me to.”

“Thanks.” Michael gave the man a cursory look before taking a sip of the whiskey. “I never would have pegged her as being your type.” He’d been taken aback when he saw their picture in the celebrity magazine. His friend had been holding Nadine’s hand, and he looked happier than he’d been in years.

Nadine Manning was decidedly beautiful, with a smooth cocoa-brown complexion and dimples as big as coins. She was also larger than the women he had gone out with in the past and an actress to boot.

“You love her?”

Alec took his drink back with him and sat down, leaning against the desk chair. Taking a sip, he lifted his thick black brows. “You sound skeptical.”

“I’ve seen the two of you together, and I have to say that seeing is believing. I never thought you would’ve gone for someone like her.”

“Please clarify.” His deep voice had cooled drastically.

“I don’t mean it as an insult.” Michael waved a hand hastily. “She’s an actress.” He added as if that was enough explanation. He couldn’t deny the woman’s beauty – it was there for all to see.

She shines on screen, her talent astounding. He’d met her after coming back from his trip to the Caribbean, where he’d been engaged in some business deals. Nadine had made him feel at home and at ease.

“When I’m with her, I don’t think about her job. She hasn’t an ounce of shyness in her body.” Alec sipped his whiskey, a wry smile on his lips. “She also makes me forget who I am or who people see me as. I can be myself when I’m around her.”

“That’s admirable. When’s the wedding?”

Alec gave a burst of laughter. “We’re not there yet. We’re still figuring things out, and we recently decided we want a child.”

Michael sipped the whiskey and savored the wonderful taste. “You’re still hung up on commitment.”

Alec shrugged, his expression becoming closed. “Nadine understands, and that’s all that matters. Now, let’s get down to business; I promised her I’d make it home in time for dinner.” A smile crossed his lips. “Apparently, she wants to cook something she found online. I’m going to be her guinea pig.”

*****

Nadine blew out a breath as she stood there looking at herself in the mirror. She was in the business where appearances mean everything.

She was photographed when she went for coffee at her favorite café – a little place not far from where she’d had her apartment. As soon as her fame escalated, it became more difficult to go out without the paparazzi following her every move armed with a camera.

It was no different for her brother and her mother, who’d become famous by association. She was a size eighteen African-American woman, and it was pretty hard for her to hide. It annoyed her most of the time to have a camera shoved into her face.

One snide reporter had commented on the fact that she’d worn a floral dress three times. She didn’t give a damn what they said about her.

There was a time when she was hung up on her weight and the fact that she wasn’t a size two. Several producers had rejected her because of it, not bothering to look past that to her talent – a big mistake.

Dione Fletcher had seen her talent and taken a chance when she gave her the starring role of Viola Evans, a woman who kicks ass in the business world but puts up with a lot from the man she’s in love with.

Her first reading had turned into a second callback. She’d read the script her agent had sent her and had been hooked from the first line. She’d been determined to land the role and had spent time reading the lines in front of the mirror to prepare herself.

She put her all into the role, and it paid off. Now, she was raking in the big bucks and being interviewed by all the famous talk show hosts. She was happy in her career, of course, and thanked the good Lord he was allowing her to realize her dream.

Then she’d met Alec, and her career had taken a back seat. She’d fallen hard and fast, something that had left her spinning. He had this latent energy and power that emanated from him in waves. He’d been amused by her, his cynicism making it a challenge for her to break through.

She'd taken one look at the tall and lean dark-haired man with slate-gray eyes and felt a shiver inside her stomach. She’d also broken one of her cardinal rules by going home with him on the first night.

Nadine closed her eyes as the memory hit her full-on. The passion had exploded between them, and she’d seen the frown touching his brow as the passion shimmered like dancing flames between them.

He was just coming out of a painful relationship and had told her bluntly that he wasn’t interested in another. Something had clicked between them, and they’d been unable to help themselves. They’d gone at it like rabbits. The more they were together, the more it became apparent that they couldn’t go a day without some sort of contact.

It’d frustrated him at first, and he’d tried to fight it, but in the end, he had to acknowledge that what he was feeling, the emotions churning inside him, was not going away.

Now they were living together, and it was new for both of them. He still refused to talk about his ex, and she wasn’t ready to push him yet. She’d seen the woman around, a big, hot-shot society heiress who had the slim, willowy beauty that Nadine had craved in another lifetime.

She wasn’t insecure, or that was what she told herself. Running a hand over her generous hip, she stepped back from the mirror. She’d promised her man a gourmet meal, and she had two hours to whip up something tasty.

*****

He could smell the duck from the foyer. She’d dismissed the housekeeper for the weekend and declared that they’d be spending time alone together. She did things like that, sweet, impulsive things that always managed to put a smile on his face.

He’d been wrung dry from his former relationship and had sworn that he wasn’t going to enter into another – at least, not right now. The decision had been taken out of his hands the moment he made love to her.

His smile widened as soon as he entered the arched doorway of the kitchen. She’d changed out of the outfit she’d worn for the interview and had on a loose shirt and nothing else. She was also wearing an apron. Her hair was piled on top of her head, making Alec wonder what her fans would say if they could see her now.

She wasn’t wearing shoes, the bright purple of her nail polish evident. The usually spotless kitchen was a mess of pots and pans, and there was a smudge of what looked like flour on her left cheek. She appeared to be out of her depth and looked so damn beautiful that he wanted to take her right there and then.

“I’m not helping with the cleaning up.” His deep voice jarred her out of her fierce concentration, and her gaze swung to him. “Something’s burning.” He pointed out mildly, chuckling as she abandoned the vegetables she was chopping to haul open the oven door.

“It’s ruined.” She sounded so disconsolate that he couldn’t help but rush forward to place his hands on her shoulders. She was only just over five feet tall and came up to his chest.

“Have a backup plan?” He asked, kissing the top of her head and rubbing her shoulders.

“I wanted it to be special.”

“I never asked you to slave in front of a stove.”

“It was supposed to be our special time together. I didn’t want us to go out.”

“Knowing Mrs. Bailey, there’s probably roast chicken in the warmer.” Turning her to face him, he rubbed at the smudge on her cheek before tilting her head up so that he could kiss her lips.

The charred duck was forgotten as the heat rose inside her. Balling her hands into his blue cotton shirt, she leaned into the kiss, her body flooding with desire.

“Hi.” He whispered against her mouth, heart hammering inside his chest. He was burning for her, and even after almost seven months, he was yet to get used to it. He was aroused and aching to drive himself deep inside her.

“Hi.” She touched his face gently, tracing the slight dent in the stubborn chin. “I thought you had a late meeting.”

“I decided to ditch it. Boring stuff. Shall we get rid of the meat, or do you want to try and salvage something?”

“Get rid of it. I’m not a cook, and I have no idea what got into me.”

“Maybe you were trying to impress me?” He teased.

“Look how well that turned out.” She slid her hands around his waist. “Mrs. Bailey is going to be pissed.”

“Hmm.”

“She adores you and barely tolerates me. She thinks you can do better.”

His eyebrows lifted. “Has she said that to you?”

“She wouldn’t dare, but I can read her thoughts. She wants a sweet woman who doesn’t swear every few seconds.”

“So would I, but I’m stuck with you.” He winced when she dug her nails into his back before stepping away. He watched as she walked over to the huge warmer and opened it. From the eye roll, he could guess that he was right.

“An entire meal. Roast chicken that smells divine, by the way, wild vegetables, and some sort of rice. Obviously, the woman has no faith in my culinary skills.”

“She’s a smart woman.” He grinned as she turned to give him a threatening look.

“Just for that, you’re on washing duty.”

“Nuh-uh.” He shook his head. “I stay as far away from the kitchen as I possibly can. That’s why I employ a housekeeper.”

“You said you love me.” She tried for a pout.

“I do.”

“We’re supposed to do things together.”

His eyes narrowed. “Not everything. I’m fine with us doing our own stuff.” He backed out. “I need a shower, and I just remembered; I have a call to make.” He escaped before she could blast him.

Plopping her hands on her hips, she glared at the empty doorway before turning to look at the mess she’d made. What the hell was she thinking? Mrs. Bailey was amazing, manning her station and protecting her work with the fierceness of a lioness defending her cub.

The woman had looked whey-faced when Nadine had told her that she was being relieved of her duties for the weekend.

“How is Mr. Alec going to get his meals?” She’d asked stiffly.

Nadine hadn’t been surprised that she had been left out of the equation. The woman didn’t care if she ate or not. “I’m here, aren’t I?” She’d asked in a cool tone that didn't brook an argument. “I’ll take care of everything, and I promise not to break anything.

Pressing her lips together, she removed the meal from the warmer.

*****

They had the meal on the balcony, and the view was absolutely stunning. The penthouse was in the heart of the uptown area but was far away enough so the sounds of traffic whizzing by on the busy streets were muted.

It was set back from the roadway and completely private. Trees, large, towering ones, surrounded the area, and the high-rise buildings of luxurious glass and chrome could be seen from the balcony.

At night, the dazzling lights competed with the stars dotting the velvet sky. Taking up his wine glass, Alec directed his attention to the woman curled up on the chaise-longue. She’d lit candles even though it was still light out.

Summer was fading into fall soon, but it was still holding on, and it was still light out even though it was almost half past eight. He felt relaxed and content. There was no place he’d rather be than here with her.

“I caught your interview.” He had one hand at the back of the padded chair, fingers stroking her neck.

“What did you make of it?”

A smile curved his sensuous lips and sent her blood pressure spiking. The man had a mouth made for kissing, among other things. “I was hoping you wouldn’t mention the fact that we’re trying for a baby.”

“You know I wouldn’t.” She gave him a sober look as she sipped her wine. “That’s personal. Besides, I don’t want to jinx it.”

“It’ll happen.” His tone was dismissive, but she knew better. He wanted it as much as she did.

“We’ve been trying- “

“It’s only been two months, Nadine.” He trailed a finger down her cheek. “We try every night and most mornings.” His smile came again and made her want to jump him.

“Why don’t we go into the bedroom and do some more trying?”

“Why do I get the feeling that’s all you want me for? I’m just one big sperm bank to you!”

“Emphasis on the big.” She grinned at him. “Yes, you caught me, pal.” Emptying her glass, she took his away and climbed into his lap. “I intend to use you the entire night.”

“I’m your willing slave.”

“Yeah, right.” She snorted before taking his lips in a searing kiss.

Chapter 2

The lovemaking left them breathless and shivering in the aftermath. They’d finally made it upstairs into what Nadine had referred to as the biggest bedroom she’d ever seen. The bed was on a raised dais, the headboard a series of twists and intricate curves. The room itself was a muted cream and baby blue with the balcony leading off it.

A huge fireplace dominated one section of the wall. The large closet with the doors thrown open was bigger than her entire bedroom! It revealed revolving shelves and space for a padded bench which was placed in the middle of the floor. They’d made love in that room several times when they were trying to get ready to go out.

Her clothes were hanging opposite his, and each time she entered the closet; it jarred her to realize she was living with him.

“Why me?”

“Pardon?” He was half asleep, drunk on the passion that’d erupted between them. He was wondering if it was the excellent wine or the emotion that had him feeling drunk. He had a feeling it was both.

Raising up, she propped her head on her hand so she could stare at him. His thick dark hair was rumpled, his gray eyes soft, reminding her of gentle rain clouds. “Why me? You’re used to thin, almost emaciated, women who live on coffee and water and look like toothpicks with bones poking out everywhere. I’m a lot different to that.”

“Perhaps that’s the attraction.” He trailed a finger down her cute button nose, going down to the lush lips that had first caught his attention. “Maybe it’s the fact that you chased me.”

Her dark brown eyes narrowed. “You were the one who suggested we go back to your penthouse suite.’ She made air quotes and rolled her eyes. “You sounded like a pompous ass.”

“You couldn’t wait to get out of the ballroom. I remember you couldn’t keep your hands off me! You were all over me when we were in the car.”

“You had your hand on my tits.”

“They were spilling out of the excuse of a dress you had on.” He shot back. “It’s as if you were determined to get laid that night.”

“So?” She tilted a brow at him. “I hadn’t had sex in ages, and I was feeling horny. Nothing’s wrong with that.”

“You made me think you were easy.” He grunted as she plowed a fist into his taut stomach. “What did you expect me to think? You had sex with me on the first night.”

“So what does that make you? Or is it different for a man? Think very carefully before you answer that question, buddy,” Her hand edged down between his thighs.

“Ah, watch the package.”

She gathered his testicles in her hands and squeezed lightly. “I need an answer.” She increased the pressure.

“I love you to pieces.”

“Good one.” Still, she squeezed for good measure. “Even though I know that wasn’t what you were going to say.” She squealed when he shifted suddenly until she was flat on her back and him on top of her.

“Not so scary now, are you?” He could feel her nipples pressing against his chest. A fresh spark of lust and desire ripped through his body like a red-hot poker and had him hard instantly fast. It was frustrating and a little debilitating to realize she could do this to him.

“I’m always scary.” Her hands wound around his neck, eyes boring into his. “It’s the same for me, Alec.” Her voice was quiet and knowing. “I never expected-”

“It’s draining.” He took a deep breath to even his tone, which had become harsh.

“I wouldn’t exactly call it that.” She was a little hurt by his tone.

“What would you call it then?”

“Love.” Her fingers tightened around his neck. “All-consuming love and it feels wonderful.”

Blowing out a breath, he pressed his forehead against hers. “I’m sorry. It’s just that I’m not used to all these emotions swirling through my body.”

“Neither am I.” Sliding her hands from around his neck, she cupped his face. “I love you.” She told him fiercely.

“I’ve never been in love before, and it scares the crap out of me. We banged each other the first night until we couldn’t move, and I told myself that was it. Now we’re living together and trying to have a baby. I keep wondering if we should wait.”

“Having second thoughts?” He asked her mildly. She was starting to get to know him, and even though his face was expressionless, she could see the glint in his eyes.

“No. Are you?”

“No.” He mirrored her response. “I love you.” He drew a shaky breath. “I was involved in a toxic relationship before, and I wanted to stay away from anything like that. With you, it’s different; I want to share everything.”

Just not marriage, the thought popped into her head, but she didn’t say it. He’d told her from the start he wasn’t ready for that sort of commitment, and she’d told him she understood.

“We’re living together, and we share something special. We don’t want to spoil it.”

She wanted his name but had decided to roll with his decision. Maybe he was right, and they didn’t need a marriage certificate to be happy.

“Then it’s settled.” She told him lightly, bringing his head down to hers.

*****

She was fast asleep, the little snoring noises making him smile. He’d managed to untangle himself from her arms to prop up against the pillows. It was more than a little embarrassing how much he needed her. It wasn’t just sex, which in itself was mind-blowing and so intense it felt as if he was being torched from the inside out.

It was her – everything about her - the larger-than-life personality, the quick and intelligent wit, and the lack of entitlement. She was a famous actress and yet could still meet and interact with her fans. She also cared a hell of a lot. She was part of a number of charities, not just for the good publicity but because she genuinely cared.

He’d seen her show and watched how much she put into the role. At first, the sex scenes made him see red. It’d started arguments between them, and she’d accused him of being a jealous jerk.

“It’s just a job to me.” She had told him, eyes sizzling. “It’s my bread and butter.”

“His tongue was down your damn throat, and he was touching your breast.” He’d shot back.

“For an intelligent man, you can be a brainless dick. It’s just an act – I’d never do a nude scene. It’s the angle of the camera, and it’s done that way so the viewers think we’re naked, that the chemistry between us is real.”

“What if I demanded you never do anything like that again?”

“I’d tell you you’re being unreasonable and a pain in the ass.” She’d said with a sigh. “You know me-”

“Actually, I don’t.” He’d told her tightly.

“I’m not her, damn you!” There were tears in her beautiful eyes. “I’d never hurt you, Alec; I’m sick and tired of trying to justify myself.”

He’d backed down then and apologized. He’d also heard the rumors but was slowly beginning to know the woman he’d fallen in love with. She was a straight shooter and the most loyal person he’d ever known. As much as he’d fallen headlong in love with her, he couldn’t work up the courage to propose.

Yes, he wanted a child with her, something he never thought he’d want again. He couldn’t offer her marriage. He knew her enough to know it was hurting her. He hated that.

Stifling a sigh, he pushed the hairs out of her face and slid down until he was facing her. She burrowed against him, her arm coming to his chest. Kissing her on the forehead, he settled into sleep, a smile on his face.

*****

He found her in the kitchen the next morning, wearing just a silky robe and nothing else. A steaming cup of coffee was cradled between her hands. “I thought you were laying off that.”

She watched as he came in, appreciating the simple pair of sweats rising low on his hips and the black t-shirt emphasizing the muscled chest and broad shoulders.

“I couldn’t resist. Starting Monday, I will. I’m not pregnant yet.” She pointed out.

“You might be.” He wandered over to the coffee pot and poured himself a cup. “What would you like to do today?”

“I thought you had to go to the club.”

“No. I’m all yours for the weekend.” He joined her at the glossy malachite counter and took a seat. “You?”

“I was supposed to meet with my agent, but I’m not in the mood. I’m all yours.”

“Good. We could watch movies and just relax. We never get the chance to do that.”

“Our first weekend to ourselves.” She paused and took another sip of her coffee. “We could go and see my Mom.”

He grimaced at that, and she hid a grin. The first time he’d been introduced to her family, he’d been taken aback by all the hugging and loud conversation. Her mother was vivacious and welcomed him into the small family with hugs and hints about marriage.

Her brother had been the exact opposite, staring at Alex with suspicion in his eyes. There’d also been several cousins and aunts who’d made it plain that they thought he was quite a catch. Her cousin Selena had propositioned him, telling him frankly that if he was interested, she was available, and Nadine didn’t have to know.

He'd told Nadine, of course, and had been amazed when she laughed it off. “Selena is the family slut. Don’t pay her any mind. She’ll probably tell you she gives good head. Don’t believe that either.”

“You’re not upset?” He’d asked her narrow-eyed.

“Only if you’re planning on taking her up on her offer.”

“Of course not!”

“We don’t have a problem, then.”

Alec came from a family of wealth, several generations of it. He was an only child, and both parents had passed when he was in his late twenties. He had a maiden aunt, a regal-looking woman who lived in Connecticut. Nadine had been introduced to her and had felt as if she was meeting royalty, but Aunt Corinne had made her feel welcome.

“I wanted to spend the weekend with just us.”

“I could go by myself.”

“No.” He pressed his lips together. “I know she’d love to see you. Is ah - your cousin going to be there?”

Her eyebrows darted up. “Do you want her to be there?”

“No!” He took a quick sip of his coffee. “Just wondering.”

She looked at him suspiciously. “Should I be concerned?”

“About?”

“The fact that you asked if she's going to be at Mama’s?”

“You’re being paranoid.” He told her coolly.

“Am I? Has she called you?” Her eyes widened as he flushed. “She called you?”

“She - ah-” He blew out a breath. “She just wanted to say hi.”

“Really? My slutty cousin just wanted to say hi. When was this?”

“Monday.”

“Today’s Saturday, and you haven’t said anything?”

“It was no big deal.”

“No big deal, yet you kept it to yourself.”

“I’d forgotten about it.” He muttered, sliding off the stool to get some more coffee. “We should grab some breakfast-”

“Oh no, mister. Sit back down and tell me about the phone call.”

“You’re making a big deal out of nothing. She just- she wanted some business advice.”

“She owns a damn beauty salon.”

“She’s thinking of expanding.” He breathed out despairingly and wondered how on earth he’d gotten caught up in this.

“Was she asking you for money?”

“She was asking if I could make an investment. That’s what I do.”

“I know what you do!” She had to take a deep breath. “A family member hit you up for money, and you said nothing to me. God! I had a right to know. I don’t want them to take advantage-”

“Do you think I’m an imbecile?” His voice had gone from slightly embarrassed to glacier. “I’m thirty-five years old and have been running the company since I was in my twenties. I happen to know what I’m doing.”

“Don’t you dare take that snippy tone with me!” Her eyes flashed. “I’m not into you for your money. I know that people approach you when they need favors. I don’t want my family to be like that. Why didn’t she come to me? I have money.

She came to you, and that pisses me off. If you don’t understand why that is, then you’re not as smart as you think you are.”

They glared at each other for a while before he stared down into his coffee. “I’m sorry.”

“For what?” She asked him frostily, not willing to forgive him yet. She was going to have words with Selena. Her brother and her mother would never have done anything like that.

She’d set her mother up in a fine house with a housekeeper as soon as she started making money. Gavin had resisted her offer of investing in his software firm and had only accepted it as a loan.

“For keeping it from you.” He said quietly.

She finished her coffee and went to put the cup into the sink, her shoulders stiff. At first, she resisted when he came behind her and wrapped his hands around her waist.

“I don’t want to fight with you.”

“You should’ve thought of that before you decided to hide the fact that my cousin called you.” She sighed and turned in his arms. “Is that the only time she’s called?”

“Yes.” His hands moved from her waist to cup her face. “I took the call out of courtesy.

She’s your family, darling.”

“She’s a pain in the butt.”

“That too.”

“Will you be investing, or was that just an excuse of hers to get you to screw her?”

He looked at her and said. “I’m committed to you. Only you.”

“You’d better be.” Her hand reached between them to cup his balls. “If I ever find that you’re even thinking of sinking this very potent and large penis into anyone else, I’m going to slice it off with a very blunt knife.”

He raised his brows. “What is this proclivity of yours to want to dismember me?”

“It’s the heart of you, and without it, you’re useless.”

“I have a brain.” He pointed out loftily.

“Unfortunately, it’s all down here.” She squeezed gently, sending his pulse into overdrive. His breath whooshed through his mouth when she reached inside his pants to stroke him. He was already hard. “See?”

“You’re trying to prove a point?” His fingers were digging into her shoulders, hips already moving as she trailed her fingers over the hot length of him.

“I already did.” She was poking into the slit of his penis and sending darts throughout his body. “Now that I’ve made my point, we need to go and get ready-” She gasped as he clamped his hands on her shoulders and nudged her with his body so that she was pinned against the wall.

“You tease.” He whispered, tongue tracing the outline of her lush bottom lip. “Undo me-” He bit down hard enough to send a tingle of pain and pleasure soaring through her body. “I need you so much it’s painful. Take it out.”

When she did, he rotated his hips suggestively. Pushing away the robe, he cupped her breasts and teased the nipples. His mouth was pooling with saliva. The first time he’d taken her nipples inside his mouth, he’d been driven wild with lust and couldn’t stop suckling.

“On the stool.” Without waiting for her approval, he moved her there, his hands busy tweaking the now-sensitive nipples.

“Alec-”

“Shh, baby.” He began at her neck, then her throat, taking little bites of her skin. Nadine shoved his pants down, gripping the tautness of his buttocks. Bending his knees, he took a nipple inside his mouth, tongue swirling at the tight bud before pulling it between his teeth.

Her fevered cries echoed around the room, and she could feel the heat spiraling and blooming from the pit of her stomach.

“Alec, now, please! I need to feel you inside me. God! I need you inside me.”

“Not yet.” His voice thickened as he hummed around her erect nipple.

“I’m dying,”

Reaching between her thighs, he touched the swollen flesh and caused her to jump. As soon as he slipped his fingers in, she erupted. Crying out his name, she dug into his hair and then his shoulders, clawing down his back. The first time he’d made love to her had been a revelation.

The orgasm, something that’d been satisfactory at best in the two relationships she’d had before him, had become a maelstrom of swirling emotions that had taken her completely by surprise.

He waited until she’d drifted back. Gripping her hips, he guided himself inside her, gritting his teeth as the familiar moistness of her wrapped around him like a vice. He had to take a few seconds.

His heart was hammering inside his chest, and he felt burning hot. “My love.” He whispered against her mouth, his hands trembling, fingers biting into her skin.

“My only love, what you do to me. Only you.” He kissed her hungrily, swallowing her moans deep inside his throat. It didn’t take her long to explode again, and this time, he followed, coming inside her, his body shuddering, both of them out of control.

She held him close, the tremors wracking her own body. Ending the kiss, he settled his chin on top of her head, his eyes blinded by the residual desire still churning inside him. He was buried deep inside her, his cock throbbing. This frightening pull of his heart, and his cock, scared him.

“Still want to go?” He asked her hoarsely.

“No. We’ll go tomorrow, maybe. I never called to tell her we’d be visiting.” Lifting her head, she forced him to lift his chin. “I want to spend the day with you, doing silly things. Watching those old black and white films, you love so much, just lying in your arms-” She stroked his stubble. “Just us. Alec, I love you so much.”

“I know, darling.” He kissed the tip of her nose. “I never want this to change. Whatever happens in the next few months, whether you get pregnant or not, I want us to take time and make an effort to be with each other.”

“I promise.” She whispered, leaning into him.

“Good. Shall we order breakfast?”

She gave him a look that had him laughing.

“I think I can manage to whip up a Spanish omelet. You might have to order supper, though.”

“No problem. We could take a swim in the pool. We haven’t done that for a while.”

“Sounds like fun. Let’s turn off our phones and ignore the rest of the world.”

For once, they did just that. Alec watched as she waded in the beautiful blue water. With her, he was always able to forget the outside world, which included his own company. After the swim, they settled inside the theater room to watch old movies.

He surprised her by switching to her own series after a while.

“We don’t have to,” Nadine said.

“I want to.” He’d ordered popcorn and an excellent bottle of wine from a vineyard his company had invested in. “I'm proud of you, darling.”

She smiled as she curled into him and watched herself on screen.

Chapter 3

“Ms. Manning!” The assistant jumped to his feet, smiling as he stared at her in obvious admiration. “How lovely to see you.”

“I didn’t call. Is he in?”

“Just finishing up a conference call.”

“I’ll wait.” She took a plush visitor’s chair and crossed her legs.

“Would you like coffee? Tea?”

“Some tea would be nice. It’s Jason, right?”

“Yes.’ He looked pleased that she remembered. “I love your show. I think you are the show.”

“Why, thank you.” She smiled at him, and he blushed furiously, running agitated fingers through his well-cut ash-blonde hair. “The tea?”

“Pardon?” His blue eyes looked at her vaguely.

“You offered me tea.” She tried not to show how amused she was at his dazed look.

“Oh, I’m so sorry. Right away!”

“Your intercom is ringing.” She pointed out kindly.

He was about to answer it when the doors were pushed open. “I need the-, Darling?”

“I told her you were on a conference call. I apologize-”

“It’s fine.” Nadine rose to her feet and walked towards him. “I came by without calling. I need to speak to you.”

“Of course.” Alec flicked a glance at the harried assistant. “Hold my calls.” He drew her inside the sumptuous cream and blue office and closed the doors. Cupping her face between his hands, he stared at her for a few seconds before taking her lips in a ravishing kiss that had her knees buckling.

“Whew!” She whispered, leaning into him. “I should come and visit more often.”

“I’m surprised to see you.” Taking her hand, he led her to the sofa facing the window. She’d been here twice and was still impressed by the elegant building with its towering structure towering. Alec’s office was large and comprised the entire top floor. It also offered a view of the sprawling uptown area. “Would you like something to drink?”

“Water.”

He rose to go to the fully stocked cabinet in the corner and poured her a glass of sparkling water. He’d shed his gray suit jacket, and the sleeves of his pink shirt were rolled up to his elbows. “Here you go.” He stared at her anxiously. “Is everything okay?”

“I can’t just drop in to see my guy?”

He raised his eyebrows at that. “You never usually do.”

“I’ve been here before.”

“Both times, you needed to talk.”

She sipped the water and tried to settle her nerves. “I’ve come straight from the doctor.”

His body stiffened. She’d told him she was feeling a little off the other day and more than a little tired. “And?”

“I’m pregnant. We’re pregnant.” She said it in a rush, her hands shaking so much she had to put the glass down. “I’m six weeks gone. I’m due the first week in July.”

He stared at her in a daze, lost for words. “It’s happened.”

“It has.” She gripped his hands in hers. “It’s too late to have second thoughts.”

“As if I would! We should celebrate. I’d suggest we leave now, but I have some meetings that can’t be rescheduled.”

“There’s something else.”

His gaze sharpened. “You’re okay, aren’t you?”

“I’m fine.” She shook her head. “I have to go away for a couple of days, maybe more.”
His heart lurched. Since he’d met her, it’d been a hardship for him to be without her. He’d been putting off business trips that would abroad. “Why?” He almost cursed at how needy he sounded.

“They pushed up the shooting of season four, and it’s in Texas. I’m sorry.”

“You just found out that you’re pregnant, and you’re leaving?” Pulling his hands from hers, he lunged to his feet and went to the cabinet to pour himself a drink.

“It’s lousy timing, I know, but I have to go.” She watched as he tossed back the drink.

“Tell them to reschedule. You’re the most important part of the whole series. I’m sure they’ll take your request into consideration.”

“What excuse would I give them?”

“Tell them you’re not well.” He tossed out arrogantly. “I want you home with me, dammit. This is a cause for celebration, and I’d like to celebrate with you.”

“You run a multi-billion-dollar business which always takes you away. I’ve never interfered with that. I’ve never once asked you to put off a trip-”

“You never had to ask,” He snapped. “I’ve been putting off going to Europe for months.”

She blinked at him. “Why?”

“To be with you.” He told her abruptly.

“I never expected you to do that.”

“Well.”

She puffed out her cheeks. “This is supposed to be good news, and here we are fighting. I’m not a diva, Alec, and I’m not going to shut down production just to…” Her voice trailed away at the look on his face.

“To be with me. Why don’t you just say it?”

Taking a deep breath to calm her nerves and her temper, she rose and walked over to stand in front of him. “I’m going and would like you to understand that this is my job. I won’t be able to work in a few months, and I’m fine with that. The doctor gave me a clean bill of health and didn’t anticipate any problems. I’d like you to understand and support me.”

“What if I don’t?”

Nadine felt her heart sink. “I’d be more than disappointed, but I’m still going.”

“Have a nice trip.” He turned away to refill his glass. “I have work to do.”

Nadine watched in disbelief as he strode over to his desk and pressed the intercom. “I need the file I requested earlier.” He snapped.

She fumed for a minute and then, picking up her tote, marched out of the office and smiled at the assistant as he opened the doors after knocking.

“Just leave it here,” Alec told the man. “Close the door and give me a few minutes.”

He stared at the file with unseeing eyes, a frown on his brow. She’d stopped by to tell him the news they were waiting for was finally happening. How had he reacted? Like a jealous, insecure fool. He knew what she did for a living and told her he was okay with it.

They never interfered in each other’s work; that was the unwritten rule. After the first few arguments when he’d ranted about the love scenes, he’d accepted it was just a job to her. Now when he should be celebrating with her, he’d driven her away.

Picking up the phone, he dialed her number and prayed that she would pick up.

He was about to hang up in despair when she answered. “I really hate you right now.”

“I really hate me right now too." He told her hoarsely. “I’m really sorry, darling. I keep saying and doing the wrong things. I’m supposed to be above average intelligence, but I do the absolute stupidest things. Forgive me?”

“No.”

“Please. I don’t want you to go away mad. It’s just that-” He rubbed his hand at the back of his neck. “I wanted us to be together tonight to celebrate the news.”

“I wanted that too.” She sighed. “I can ask them to allow me to travel on my own tomorrow and spend tonight with you. I don’t appreciate you trying to control me, Alec; that isn’t going to work.”

“I’m sorry, darling. So, I will see you later?”

“Yes. Be prepared to do some groveling.”

“Oh, absolutely. I love you.”

“I love you too.”

He hung up and leaned back in the chair, the pressure in his chest easing. All of this was new for him. He’d been in a couple of relationships previously, but never one with such intensity he felt like an inept schoolboy. He laughed shakily, rubbing his hands over his face. The relationship kept him on his toes, at least.

*****

“You’re creating a stir.”

“I’m a famous actress,” Nadine said breezily. “What do you expect?” Shrugging out of her jacket, she draped it over the back of the chair before taking her seat. “How’s business?”

“Booming.” Her brother settled behind his desk and eyed his only sibling. He was proud of her for what she’d accomplished and how much she’d never forgotten her family. “I’m guessing you didn’t stop by to discuss the software business.”

She wrinkled her nose. “Not at all. You’re going to start reeling off terms like cloud computing and computer-aided design, and then I’m going to have to hurt you.”

He grinned. “At least you were listening.”

“I dozed off after the first minute. How’s the girlfriend?”

“Her name is Delores, and she can tell you don’t like her.”

“I like her; I just don’t like the fact she’s divorced.”

“Her asshole of a husband was abusing her.”

“She’s damaged then. She’s probably into you because you ‘rescued’ her, and don’t forget your sister is a famous actress.”

His dark brown eyes glittered. “Not everything is about you. I happen to be a successful businessman.”

“That’s also a factor.” She pointed out.

“Did you come here to piss me off?”

“I seem to be doing that today.” She sighed and gave him a pleading look. “I came to tell you some good news.”

“Get on with it then. I have a lot on my plate.”

“I’m pregnant.”

His scowl turned into a smile as he jumped up from his chair and came around to pull her into his arms. “That’s wonderful news! You should’ve led with that. Have you told Mom?”

“My first stop was Alec, and now you. He didn’t like the fact I’m going off to Texas to shoot a scene.”

“I bet.” He hugged her tight. “I’m happy for you.”

“Yes. A baby.” She gripped his arms. “I keep veering from excitement to fear and thinking up all kinds of problems.”

“How are you feeling?”

“Wonderful. My boobs are super tender…” She laughed at the pained look on his face. “Just saying.”

“Way too much info. I’m going to be an uncle.”

“We have to keep it under wraps as long as possible. If the press gets hold of this, you know what will happen.”

“You’ll be bombarded.” He kissed her forehead before going back to his desk. “When are you leaving?”

“I was supposed to leave tonight, but I promised Alec I’d leave in the morning so we can celebrate.” She sat back down. “We fight a lot.”

He grinned. “I’ve seen the two of you together, and it’s like two boxers in a ring. You’re both too stubborn for your own good.”

She rolled her eyes. “He’s used to getting his own way, and so am I. The makeup sex is out of this world, though.”

“If you’re going to continue to be gross, I’m going to ask you to leave. And tell Mom.”

“I will. I have to go anyway. I have some stops to make.” She rose, and he did the same.

Taking her arm, he opened the door and accompanied her out of the building. “I’m saving you from being mobbed.”

“Aren’t they used to me by now?” She waved at the employees in the main office, who were openly staring.

“No. They watch your series every time they’re on a break.”

“That’s so sweet.”

He snorted as he walked with her out into the parking lot.

“At least you don’t have an entourage.”

“I’m thinking of getting one.” She slid in when he opened the door, putting her seatbelt on before leaning out. “Let me tell Mama. I know you, Gavin; you’re likely to spill the beans before I do. Oh, and Selena asked Alec for money.”

The smile was wiped clean off his face. “What?”

She nodded. “I’m dealing with her next.”

“Good,” He said grimly. “She’s a disgrace to the family.”

“It’s bad enough she offered to have sex with him-”

“She did what?” He looked so flabbergasted Nadine had to laugh.

“You know how she is.”

“How can you be so calm?”

“I know my man, and I’m confident enough to know he’d never go for someone as obvious as our cousin.”

“You should deck her.”

“I just might.” She blew him a kiss and shifted into reverse. “We'll have dinner as soon as I get back.”

He waved in response.

*****

He brought her flowers and made sure he got home early enough so he could spend time with her. Their housekeeper had left for the day already. Hanging up his jacket, he wandered into the living room and saw her curled up on the sofa, a blanket draped over her legs.

Alec felt his heart flutter as he stared at her. She’d showered and was wearing a thin red robe and no makeup. Her hair was bundled on top of her head in an untidy bun, and she was sipping tea.

“Hey.”

“Hey. You brought me flowers.” Her lips curved into a smile. “Should I be worried?”

“What about?” He came forward with the bouquet of red and yellow roses and handed it to her.

“Are you cheating on me?” Putting aside the cup, she plucked out the card and read it.

“Words aren’t enough to express my feelings.” She looked at him, dimples peeping out as she smiled. “Did you write this, or is it a standard thing at the florist? Wait! Did you pick these out or-”

“There’s such a thing as a delivery service.” He told her dryly, taking a seat in front of her. “If you’re going to make such a big deal out of it, that’ll be the last time I make the gesture. The words are mine, by the way.”

“Thank you.” She sniffed at the bouquet. “I love them. I need to find a vase-”

“Later.” Taking the flowers from her, he put them away and took her hands in his. “I believe I have to make up for the fact I was such a dick this afternoon when you came to see me.”

“I’m not stopping you.” She inclined her head regally, a hint of a smile on her lips. “I believe you’re supposed to be groveling.”

“Yes.” She hid a grin when he pushed away the table and dropped to his knees.

“Darling, will you forgive me for my inexcusable behavior earlier?”

“Is that the best you can do? Shouldn’t you be prostrating yourself before me and kissing my feet?”

He squinted his eyes. “You’re pushing it.”

“I’m just having fun. Come up here so I can snuggle.”

He rose gracefully and sat next to her, pulling her into his arms. “How are you?”

“I was feeling a bit sick when I got home, but the tea settled my stomach.” She rubbed her cheek against the cotton of his shirt and inhaled his scent.

“I know I’m possessive.”

“You don’t say.” She teased.

He smiled slightly as he rubbed her back. “I’m trying to work at behaving like a normal guy who’s in love with an extraordinary woman.”

“You’re anything but normal.” Lifting her head, she stared at him, admiring the faint afternoon shadow on his strong jaw, the sensuous lips that could turn her into a trembling mass of desire, and the aristocratic nose. “We both know it. You said you put off going to Europe-”

“I did.”

“Alec-’

“I know.” He pressed a kiss on her forehead absently. “It’s just that the relationship is new, and I’m extremely insecure.”

“Why?” She demanded. “I should be the insecure one. You have stacks of money and hundreds of beautiful women vying for your attention. You know how I feel about you, damn it. I can’t hide it, nor do I want to. It’s you and you alone, Alec; how many times do I have to prove it?”

“You’re right.” Gripping her chin between his fingers, he stared at her. She wasn’t wearing any makeup but had never been more beautiful.

Her dark brown eyes were fringed by thick lashes that curled upwards, and her skin was flawless. He knew every inch of that skin, having spent time exploring, and he loved the taste of her. The feel of her was stamped on his senses. Her smell was constantly in his nostrils.

“I know,” He repeated huskily. “I just hate being away from you.”

“I hate it too. I can’t sleep without you next to me. It’s frustrating.” He kissed the pout from her lips, and when her tongue appeared, he deepened the kiss until they were gripping each other tightly, the passion already escalating.

“Not here.” He broke away, his chest heaving, eyes darkened. “In bed, where I can worship every inch of you.”

“Yes.” She slid her hands over his chest restlessly. “I’m so happy I didn’t go tonight.”

“You can take the jet tomorrow.”

“Alec, that’s not necessary.”

“I insist. I’d be more comfortable if you travel that way.”

“Okay.”

“Shall we?”

“Aren’t you hungry?”

“Are you?”

“I ate something before I got here, and I felt a little sick. I’ll grab some soup later.”

“Sure?”

She nodded and rose, taking him with her. “Positive. I need you.”

“You have me.”

*****

He felt weightless, as if every bone in his body had turned to liquid. She was sprawled against his chest, one thigh trapping both of his. He’d not quite managed to worship her whole body. As soon as he finished with her nipples, he was straining with desire for her, the moans and tremors making it much harder, literally.

“We’re going to end up killing each other.” He murmured thickly.

“What a way to go.” Her fingers curled into his chest hair, savoring the damp skin.

“You’re pregnant; perhaps we should take it easy.”

“If you do that, you’ll definitely be a dead man.”

His chuckle tickled her cheek. “I don’t want to.”

“So don’t. I love having sex with you.”

“Of course you do.” His hand drifted to her generous butt. “Your screams of pleasure make it obvious.”

“Don’t be cocky.”

“I am cocky, though.” He nudged at her with his still half-aroused cock.

“Your ego is astounding.” She snorted.

“Can you blame me?”

“Just shut up.”

“Is that any way to talk to the guy who planted a seed inside you?”

“If you are going to be a jerk about it, I’m leaving.”

His hands tightened around her body as she started to move. “I’m through.”

“Good.”

“Just one more.”

“Oh, no, you don’t.” She struggled to get away, but he held her against him.

“I love you.” Nadine stopped struggling and lifted her head to stare at the intense expression on his face. “Just wanted to say it.”

“I’m happy you did,” Scooting up, she touched her lips to his. “I saw Selena today.”

He winced at that. “And?”

“I told her she is not to contact you again.”

“Nadine-”

“I told her she’s never to ask you for money or favors, that if there’s a need, she should come to me. She isn’t your responsibility.”

“She isn’t yours, either.”

“She’s my family.”

“She’s an adult.” He sighed as he brushed her lips with his. “We’re not going to fight about this, are we?”

“No. I refuse to allow anyone to come between us. Your family doesn’t call me up asking for favors.”

“Considering that the only family I have is Aunt Corinne, and she happens to be wealthy may be a factor.”

“That too.” She touched his chin. “I don’t want it to become a pattern.”

“What did she say?”

“She was pouting, but the message got through. I don’t want to talk about it anymore.”

“Neither do I. Let’s go get something to eat.”

Chapter 4

“What’s wrong?” He asked her abruptly as he peered at her face. She’d been in Texas for two days, and it was starting to feel like two months.

He forced himself not to call during the day, knowing she was in the middle of shooting her scenes, but at night he didn’t have any such compunction. He had a right to call her to check on her, and he felt a little bit insecure about her being with her co-star.

“Nothing.”

“Nadine.”

She rolled her eyes at him. He was surprised that she’d called him during the day and had cut off a conference call to talk to her. “I was just a little ill.”

“How little?”

“Just a queasy stomach and dry mouth. I took the pills along with the vitamins, but I still feel a little off. Anyway, enough about me. How are you?”

“Let’s just stick with you for now, shall we? You’re lying down, at least.” He’d noticed she was in her trailer and propped up against some pillows.

“I’m just a little tired.”

“Is that all?”

“Yes, Mother.” She told him dryly. “I’m taking a break between scenes. My character is about to get into a major fight with her CFO. She discovers there’s money, big chunks of it, missing.” Her eyes twinkled. “What would you do if that happened in your company?”

A smile crossed his lips. “The unlucky CFO would find himself in the hot seat and would have to explain to me where the money was. After that, he’d have to find every last cent.”

“What if it was all spent?”

His eyebrows raised. “That would be very unfortunate for him. He’d find himself in a very difficult position. What is your character going to do?”

“Threaten his family, every last one of them.”

“Ouch. That’s heartless.”

“I’m a bitch, remember?”
He gave her a thoughtful look.

“What?”

“Just amazed at how unlike your character is to the real you.”

“I can be a bitch sometimes.”

“I don’t disagree.” He laughed when she rolled her eyes again.

“Come home to me, darling," He said huskily. “I miss you.”

“I miss you too. I called to tell you I’m coming back tomorrow.”

“That’s wonderful news.” He felt his heart tripping inside his chest. “I get to take care of you.”

“I’m the one who always takes care of you.”

“This time, it’ll be different.” He broke off impatiently when his intercom sounded. “I told you no interruptions-”

“Sorry, sir, but your two o’clock appointment is here.” His harried assistant told him.

“I have to go anyway. I need to get back out there.”

“I’ll call you tonight.”

“I love you, Alec.”

“Ditto.” He murmured before hanging up. “Send her in.”

He stiffened as Amelia Wainwright was ushered into his office. She’d called and asked to see him on a purely business matter, and he’d agreed, purely out of curiosity and perhaps to prove to himself he was well and truly over her.

He’d proposed to her a year ago. He’d bought her a stunning square-cut diamond and asked her to marry him. She’d turned him down with a carelessness that’d shattered his heart.

“Amelia,” He rose, a polite smile on his lips. “That will be all, Jason.”

“Thanks for meeting with me.” She was still the ethereal beauty he’d been dazzled by, but her pale complexion looked washed out when compared to the vivacious woman he fell in love with.

“Of course. What can I offer you? Coffee? Tea?”

“Some water, please. May I?” She gestured to the chair.

“Please.” Walking over to the cabinet, he poured the water and brought it back to her.

“Thank you.” She murmured, holding his gaze for a few seconds. “How’s Nadine?”

“She’s well. She’s in Texas now shooting her series.”

“I admire her talent.”

“So do I.” He settled behind his desk. “What brings you here?”

“Daddy made some bad investments.” She sipped water delicately and peered at him beneath her lashes.

To his surprise, Alec realized he could be in the same room with her and not feel anything. She’d played him against two other men and made them all out to be fools. She’d used her beauty and so-called charms to try and see what she could get away with, something that turned his stomach. “I’m sorry to hear that.”

“He stands to lose everything.” Tears shimmered in her blue eyes, a gesture that would’ve had him gathering her into his arms in the past. He also realized that Nadine would never resort to using tears to get what she wanted. She was strong and independent, and fierce. She didn’t need a man to define who she was.

“I’m sure it’s not that bad.” He said mildly. “You should give him more credit.”

“I want to help.”

“By coming to me?”

“You’re smart, and we shared-” She gestured with one hand. “A lot.”

“All that’s in the past. How’s William?”

“We broke up.” She sniffed and drank some more water. “He wasn’t the man I thought he was.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

“He wasn’t you.”

“No one is. What exactly do you want, Amelia?”

“To say I’m sorry and for us to try and work things out.”

He stared at her in shock for a moment before he laughed. “Even though I’m with someone else? You’re that cold and vindictive?”

She had the grace to blush. “I wasn’t myself when I refused your proposal. I wasn’t thinking straight.”

“On the contrary. You were thinking you could pit the three of us against each other. I lost a very good friend because you decided it was cute to play with our feelings. You really think I’d take you back?”

He shook his head. “I do admire your audacity. I’m with Nadine, and I want to thank you for throwing my offer of marriage back into my face. I’m in love with a fantastic woman, and I’m deliriously happy.”

“You're not married.” She said with a pout.

“In due time. We’re enjoying being with each other right now.” He rose. “I’m afraid this is all the time I have to spare. I hope your father recoups his loss. My assistant will show you out.”

“Alec?” She turned as soon as the doors opened, and Jason stood inside the doorway.

“Yes?”

“I’m really sorry.”

“I’m not. Goodbye, Amelia.” He closed the doors behind them and leaned against them for a few minutes. That felt damn good.

*****

“Honey, you’re sweating.” Gillian, the makeup artist, complained as she stared at her handiwork. “You okay?”

“Something I ate,” Nadine muttered. The pills weren’t working, and instead of morning sickness, she was feeling it the entire day.

“That shrimp casserole for lunch was kinda iffy.” She applied some foundation. “Want me to turn on the fan?”

“I have one scene to shoot, and then I’m done for the day. I’m so tired.”
“The producer has been pushing a lot.”

“We’re behind schedule, and we can’t afford to lose the light.’ She pressed a hand to her stomach and closed her eyes, breathing in slowly. “I’ll be fine.”

“I’m finished.”

“Thanks, Gill.”

“Any time.”

She waited until Gillian had left her trailer before leaning her elbows onto the vanity and closing her eyes. Any inkling of her situation would be leaked to the press. The cast and crew were notorious gossips and couldn’t keep a secret if their lives depended on it.

They’d be taking a much-needed break in November when the series wrapped, and she couldn’t wait. She wanted to concentrate on her relationship and her pregnancy.
A knock at the door had her straightening up and getting into character.

“We’re ready for you on set. Nadine.” The gofer called out.

“I’m coming.” Taking a deep breath, she counted to five and was in character. Rising from the stool, she put on the persona of Viola and sailed out of the trailer, ready to kick some ass.

*****

“A bunch of us are going out on the town to celebrate. You interested?” Sylvia Kautz played her sister in the series and was a tall, willowy, African-American woman with large dark eyes and dozens of corn rows. On the set, they weren’t close, but in real life, they got along very well.

“I’m exhausted, girl. I’m just going to lie down.”

“You’re going to call that handsome man of yours, no doubt,” Sylvia said enviously. “I don’t blame you. If I had a man like that, I wouldn’t leave him alone.”

“I know where I stand with him.” She rubbed her stomach unconsciously, causing Sylvia to stare at her curiously.

“You sure you’re okay? Come to think of it; you look a little peaky.”

“Just tired.” She summoned up a smile. “Which means something to eat and straight to bed.”

“Your man’s jet coming to pick you up?” Sylvia grinned at her.

“No. I’m flying with you lesser beings.” Waving at the woman, she made her way to her trailer. It wasn’t that late, and they’d wrapped up the shooting of the last scene earlier than expected. It’d been a difficult one and had drained her.

For the first time since she’d started acting, she could feel the weariness of playing the role invading her body. It must be the pregnancy and the rampaging hormones that come with it, she decided.

Benny, the guy who plays her husband, had asked her out for a drink. “Just to shoot the breeze.”

She’d refused, of course. There were always reporters hanging around the set, and the last thing she wanted was for them to be seen together. Alec had shown unreasonable jealousy toward him; she didn’t want to do anything else to fuel that fire.

She understood why he was so paranoid. He hadn’t revealed everything that had happened with his ex, but she’d put two and two together and come up with enough information.

The woman had cheated on him repeatedly and with a friend. He’d proposed to her, and she’d thrown it back in his face, the moron. Her loss was definitely Nadine’s gain. She wasn’t with Alec for his money.

She never asked him for anything, no matter how inconsequential. She had her own money and could pretty much buy anything she needed. She wasn’t into spending like crazy. She loved beautiful things and had a closet filled with clothes and shoes.

She’d bought her mother a very nice house along with some outstanding furniture. She had invested in her brother’s company and given money to the rest of the family. She could more than afford to do so.

She’d been leasing an apartment for the past few years with the intention of buying a place of her own one day. Then she’d met Alec, and he’d insisted on them living together.

Now she was pregnant; she was going to start looking for a house. She wanted a huge backyard where their child could have the run of the place. His apartment was spectacular, but she wanted a home.

He hadn’t proposed to her, and that was something that was weighing on her. It frightened her how much she was in love with him. She was going to take it one step at a time and not ask for trouble.

They had a great thing going. The relationship was like a powder keg, but it meant there was no time for boredom. You couldn’t be bored being with a man like Alec anyway.

He completed her, that was the gist of it, and she was going to do everything in her power to show him he could trust her.

*****

He felt foolish. Mrs. Bailey had prepared the meal and set the table before leaving. He’d ordered flowers, freshly cut from the florist, and they’d been delivered just a few minutes ago. Some were in the middle of the snowy-white linen tablecloth, and a vase of them were on the piano.

He smiled as he recalled how surprised she’d been that the instrument wasn’t just a conversation piece, but he could actually play and was quite good.

Everything was ready for her arrival. He’d ordered a simple meal, some clear broth, grilled vegetables, broiled chicken, and freshly-baked Italian loaves. A bottle of non-alcoholic wine was in the cooler, and a pot of tea was in case she was feeling queasy.

He’d also brought down her house slippers and a comfortable robe from upstairs. He’d never done anything like this before, and he felt vulnerable and stupid.

There was no going back now. It was done, and she was on her way from the airport. He’d offered to pick her up, but she’d told him the bus was there to cart the cast and crew around. “They’ll drop me off. Don’t worry.”

He was about to go and get the wine glasses when he heard the doors being opened.

She was early, he thought. Taking a deep breath, he went to greet her and felt his heart turning over inside his chest as she entered.

“Hey.”

“Hey, you.” Dropping her case, she snuggled into him and buried her face into his chest. “I feel like I’ve been gone for ages.”

His arms wrapped around her, and his eyes closed as he inhaled her familiar scent. “It certainly feels that way. How was the flight?”

“Not bad,” Drawing back, she touched his face. “How are you?”

“Better now.” He kissed her, wanting to feel the touch and taste of her, needing to feel it. “Hmm. You taste like peppermint.”

“I had to chew on some to help the nausea. I swear this baby is out of control.”
“Technically, it isn’t a baby yet.” Taking her hand, he led her down the wide hallway and into the dining room.

“It’s a baby-” Her mouth dropped wide open as she stared at the scene before her. “What have you done?”

“I’m welcoming you home.”

Dragging her hand from his, she plopped her fists on her hips and stared at him. “Did you cheat?”

“What? No.” Nadine had to hide the grin as he pushed his fingers through his hair. “Flowers everywhere and a sumptuous meal on the table. What’s going on?”

“I’m just happy to see you, and if you’re going to make a big deal out of it, this won’t happen again. You’ll come home to some food in the warmer, and I’ll be in my office going over contracts, which I should be doing right now.” He muttered.

“I’m sorry, I just had to do it. You should see the look on your face.” She burst out laughing and launched herself into his arms.

“It’s not funny.” He was smiling as he hugged her. “There’s more.”

“You brought me diamonds?”

“You already have enough of those.”

“A girl can never have enough. What else is there?”

Moving away from her, he went to the sofa by the sideboard to get her robe and slippers. “I figured you’d want to be comfortable after your trip.”

She stared first at him and then the things he had in his hands. She hadn’t expected this. Alec Ritter was a busy man. The fact he’d taken time out to do this for her was too much. To her utter dismay, she started crying. She couldn’t help tears streaming down her face as the emotion welled up inside her.

Dropping her stuff onto the carpeted floor, he rushed to gather her in his arms.

“I didn’t mean to make you cry.” He murmured, rubbing her back.

“You shouldn’t have been the perfect future daddy, then.”

“I’m not perfect.”

“You come close.” She sniffed. “Good thing I wasn’t wearing makeup; it would’ve been ruined.”

“Better?”

She nodded. “Just hold me for a little bit.”

“With pleasure. I wanted to do something nice for you. To return the favor.”

“I burnt the food.” She reminded him.

“I had the good sense to leave the cooking to the experts.” Easing away from her, he tilted her chin up. Using the pads of his thumbs, he wiped at the tears.

“Hormones.”

“Hmm.” Bending, he kissed first one wet cheek and then the other. “Let’s get you comfortable, shall we?”

She stood there while he took off the sweater and pair of jeans she’d donned for her journey back and helped her into the robe. “Let’s get some food in you.”

After the meal, which she managed to keep down, he propped her feet up and massaged them, the movements of his long fingers making her comfortable and cozy.

“Someone came to visit me today.” He’d wrestled with whether he should tell her or not but decided he wouldn’t keep anything from her. He’d never gone into details as to the why of the breakup and respected her for not pushing.

“Oh?” Any minute now, she was going to suggest they go on upstairs so they could get naked.

“Amelia.” He said briefly, gray eyes meeting hers.

“Your ex.”

“Yes.” Pouring some more cream into his hands, he rubbed them together before attacking her calves.

“What did she want?”

“Financial advice.” He was staring at her and saw when her eyebrows raised. “And to rekindle an old flame.” He added with a slight smile.

“I hope you gave her the first and told her to get the hell out with the second. Did you?”

“What do you think?”

“I don’t know what to think. What did you say to her?”

“I set her straight and told her to get the hell out of my office.”

She gave him a skeptical look and was surprised she wasn’t seething with jealousy. “You never talk about her.”

“At first, it was too painful; then I was pissed I’d allowed myself to be led by the nose.”

“You proposed to her?”

“Yes.” He clipped. Recapping the bottle, he put it away. “Do you need anything?”

“I need you to stay right there and talk to me.”

“She came to my office on the pretense of needing financial guidance, which I discovered was just that – a ploy. She claimed her dad was on the verge of losing everything, and she wanted to know if I could do something about it.”

“Which was all a lie.”

He nodded.

“Are you still in love with her?”

He stared at her for a few seconds before answering. “If you’d asked me that a few months ago, I would’ve said I don’t know.”

“And now?”

“I’d say definitely, no.” he gave her a fleeting smile. “I have you to thank for that, and the fact that meeting you, being with you, has made me take the blinkers off.” He rubbed her feet absently. “You’re a major pain in the ass, of course, but you’re growing on me.” He grunted when she dug her heel into his crotch. “If you damage the package, darling, you’re the one who’ll regret it.”

“I could call up one of my ardent male fans and get him to service me. Did I tell you about the letters I’ve been receiving from Gary from California?”

“No.”

“Well, he’s been expressing his pure and sincere love for me and wants me to know that when I come to my senses and dump your rich ass, he’d come running.”

He stared at her with narrowed eyes. “Is that so?”

“Yes. There’s also Ned from Florida. He has a yacht and wants to take me around the world.”

“That’s original.” He snorted.

“Then there's- “

“Shut up, Nadine.” Ensuring she did just that, he set her feet aside and pulled her into his arms, closing his mouth over hers.

Chapter 5

The restaurant was the latest of Kelly Takahashi's acquisitions, and it was very trendy and elegant. The purple and champagne color was her trademark, lending a lush look to the surroundings.

The booths gave an air of privacy, and the seats were padded to offer the utmost comfort. Soft music played, pulsing through the speakers surrounding the huge space. The grand opening had been in June, and it’d been an instant hit.

Not to mention the fact it was ideally located in the middle of uptown, with its towering office buildings and trendy stores, there was also a Romano's within walking distance. The ambiance was amazing. Instead of electric lights, candles were on every table, giving a sense of intimacy.

Nadine had been here before, with Alec, right after they just met. She was a rising star but had been unable to get a reservation. He’d simply spoken to Kelly, and the doors had been thrown open for them.

"I happen to be friends with Kane, and we belong to the same club." He’d told her quietly when she had expressed her shock and surprise that he’d been able to get them in.

"You forgot to mention you happen to be made of money, and that opens doors faster than you can say ‘reservation.’" She’d responded wryly.

"There is that."

She’d chosen this location to meet with her agent and take advantage of the excellent food. She’d arrived early for the appointment to chill and relax. She’d been horrible to Alec over the past couple of weeks, and to his credit, he’d taken it with admirable patience.

Hormones or not, she was going to have to get herself under control. She’d quarreled with him over something as simple as him not telling her he’d be late getting home. When he’d apologized, she’d burst into tears.

Her boobs were super sensitive, she peed every five minutes, and the morning sickness wasn’t getting any better. She was two months pregnant and felt like a horse. She wasn’t showing yet, but it was only a matter of time.

She had something planned for them later. He’d had to travel last week, and missing him had burned a hole inside her heart. She’d found herself weeping into her pillow and clutching a shirt of his in her hands.

She’d read up on pregnancy, did extensive research, and was aware of all the side effects, but she didn’t like being this clingy, needy person with a hair-trigger. She’d told her mother the news and implored her not to say anything to the rest of the family.

"When the press gets hold of it, they’re going to hound us even more." She’d explained, wondering if she’d done the right thing. Martha Manning wasn’t able to keep a secret. She was family, though; the woman was her mother and deserved to know she was, at long last, going to be a grandmother.

She was sipping her sparkling water when she noticed the woman floating in. Floating was the only term she could find to describe the way Amelia moved. Her blonde hair was sleek and done up in an elegant coif that left her long, graceful neck bare.

The light blue of her woolen dress matched her eyes perfectly, and her shoes gave her trim figure added height. She was perfect - the type of woman Alec and every other man would find irresistible. Nadine reflected that Alec had proposed to her. He’d offered her a ring and had been in love with her.

That made Nadine want to lunge, and bitch slap the woman. She’d gone to Alec's office on the pretense of needing his help when what she really wanted was to rekindle an old flame.

Their eyes connected, and Nadine saw, for a split second, the glower of resentment and hatred before it was replaced by a veneer of civility.

"Nadine, how nice to see you." Her voice was cultured and seductive, and Nadine imagined that it’d taken years of practice for her to sound like that.

"Amelia." She decided to play along. "Of all the restaurants."

"Can you believe it?" Her laugh was soft and tinkling, like a muted church bell. "I’m here to meet some friends." She looked around. "All alone?"

"I’m meeting with my agent, but I’m early."

"Oh." Baby blue eyes wandered over her face. "You look a little tired. I read in the papers the shooting for the new season has begun. That must be so exciting."

"It is," Nadine told herself she should leave it alone, but when had she ever not spoken her mind? "I understand you went to see Alec the other day."

The flash of surprise came and went quickly. "I decided to stop by."

"Pretending you needed help."

Amelia’s coral lips pursed. “We have a history.”

“Emphasis on the history. You’re his past."

"We were in love."

"Like I said, you’re his past. I’m his future. Emphasis on the future. When you had him, you abused the privilege. I’m not that stupid."

The cool veneer disappeared, and the anger came hard and fast. "He adored me!" She hissed, fingers clenching into fists. Nadine wondered how she stopped from exploding. "He would’ve done anything for me. He bought me gifts, expensive ones, and we’d spend all our time together."

"When you weren’t screwing other men. You were arrogant and a world-class moron, Amelia. You didn’t deserve a man like my Alec." She shrugged carelessly. "I’m happy you couldn’t keep your thighs closed. Your loss is, of course, my wonderful gain."

The bright red flush stained the woman’s cheeks, the fury brightening her eyes. Nadine braced for the attack she was sure was coming when suddenly there was a familiar voice coming from the opposite direction.

“Darling!” Kelly breezed forward, blonde curls cut close to her head and wearing a flowing caftan-like blouse over painted-on jeans.

“When Julian told me we had a celebrity in the house, I had to come and see for myself. Amelia.” Her smile cooled considerably. “May we escort you to your table?” She lifted a hand, and immediately a uniformed waiter came hurrying forward.

“I can find my own way.” Amelia snapped.

“Then kindly do so immediately. We do not tolerate scenes in this fine establishment.”
She watched as the woman flounced away, her steps quick and agitated.

“Lord, I’m sorry.” Nadine blew out a breath. “I was in the act of lighting into her, and there’s a reporter lurking around the potted plant, ready to document everything.”

Kelly slid in across from her, golden brown eyes twinkling. “I saw it all the way from across the room and knew I had to come and play referee. The woman is a shallow moron and is feeling the awful pain of losing a wonderful man.”

Nadine sighed and pressed a hand against her stomach. She felt shaky and moody, and her stomach was jittering. The scene had left her feeling weepy, and she hated that. “I have always sneered at women who get into it with each other when it comes to a man.”

“This man happens to be your man, and even though we’re not putting tags on him, she had her chance and blew it.” Kelly reached across to place a hand over hers. “Honey, you look shaky, and you’re trembling. We have some private rooms- “

“I’m pregnant.” She whispered and took another breath. “We’ve only told family because we don’t want the press going crazy- “

“Of course, I understand. Oh darling, how wonderful!”

“Right now, it doesn’t feel that way. I’m supposed to meet my agent- “

“Why don’t you call and cancel and go on home?” Kelly suggested.

“I think that’s a good idea. I just need to call her-“ She almost cursed aloud when she couldn’t get her phone out of her pocketbook.

“Let me.” Taking the device out, she offered to call the woman who was just on her way.

“Now darling, I’m going to get some soup from the kitchen and send you on your way. Are you okay to drive?”

Nadine nodded, feeling the tears swimming behind her eyes. “I feel like an idiot.” She sniffed.

“When I was pregnant the first time, I hated Kane.” Kelly smiled and shook her head. “I spent months pursuing the man, and after we were married, and things were going great, then came the pregnancy and the violent mood swings.

I’d burst into tears at the drop of a hat. Kane would be afraid to approach me, not knowing what mood I'd be in.” She laughed softly. “The darling man took it all in stride and stood by me.”

“What choice did he have? He was the one who did the damage.” Nadine snorted.

Kelly’s smile widened at that. “Precisely what I told him, only in not-so-polite terms.”

“I’ve been arguing with him for over a week.”

“The makeup sex is such a delight.”

“Amen to that.” She squeezed Kelly’s hand. “Thank you, I really needed that. My boobs are sore, and I’m thinking of wearing diapers with the amount of time I have to go to the bathroom. This nausea is driving me crazy.” She held up a hand. “Who am I to complain? I prayed for this to happen, and I’m not going to be ungrateful.”

“That’s the spirit.” Kelly patted her hand. “Now, let me go and get the soup for you to take with you.”

*****

He skipped the rest of his meetings when he received the call from Kelly.

“I’m sure she wouldn’t want you worrying, and I’m positive it’s nothing to worry about, but she had a run-in at the restaurant with your ex and was shaken. I sent her home with soup and some comforting words, but darling, what she really needs is her man.”

So, he’d ditched his meetings to come back to his apartment.

“She is upstairs, sir.” Mrs. Bailey told him as soon as he opened the doors. Shrugging out of his jacket, he handed it to her. “Has she eaten?”

“She brought something with her and took it upstairs.”

“Thank you.”

“I’ve prepared some steamed vegetables and plain soup in case she feels like eating later on.”

“Good idea. If you’re finished here, you may leave.”

“Of course, sir.”

Loosening the tie and the two top buttons, he bounded up the stairs. He could hear the low sound of the television as he stepped through the sitting room and into the bedroom.

She was sitting up against a mound of pillows, the tray table with the bowl put to one side. She was wearing a thin silk robe with the left shoulder sagging open. Her hair was piled on top of her head, and her face was free of makeup.

“Are you going to just stand there?”

“I don’t know. I’m just testing the waters.” He stood leaning against the doorjamb, his hands buried in his pockets. “I was told you had an encounter.”

“You’re staying clear in case I take out my justifiable wrath on you?” She inclined her head. “Good plan.”

“Should I apologize?”

“For being with that bitch, please go right ahead.”

He hid a smile at the scornful look on her beautiful face. “I apologize for my horrible bad taste in women in the past.”

“And?”

“You want more?” His eyebrows rose.

“What do you think?”

“I think I need a hint as to what else you need me to say.”

“I’m going to leave it to your very supreme intellect.”

“You’re giving me more credit than I deserve.” He pointed out wryly.

“Still waiting here.” She folded her hands under her breasts, bringing attention to the plumpness of her exposed flesh. During the past week, he’d had to put up with her varying mood swings but realized it came with the territory.

She was pregnant, hormones raging, and he’d be a complete prick if he didn’t give some allowance to what her body was undergoing and the changes taking place.

“I’ve no idea what I ever saw in her. You’re the epitome of a fascinating woman. There’s the utter passion and lack of pretense. I’ve been bursting with joy since the day you forced yourself on me.” His eyes twinkled when her eyes flashed.

“You were doing great until the part where I forced myself on you.”

“I made a vow that I’ll be completely honest with you. No matter what.” He walked into the room and sat on the edge of the bed, eyeing her cautiously. “Am I in the clear?”

“I don’t know.”

“What else can I do?”

“Take off your clothes. I need to feel you worshiping my body.”

“That I can do.” He tilted her chin, examining her face thoroughly. “You managed to control yourself?”

“I wanted to deck her.” She admitted. “She got in my face, and I wanted to wipe the floor with her bony ass.” She told him the gist of the argument.

He raised his eyebrows. “You told her she wasn’t able to keep her thighs closed?” He had to bite back his amusement.

“You think that’s funny?” She asked him darkly, dragging her chin away. “I’m against women getting into catfights over men, and it almost happened to me.”

“I imagine that when the man is worth fighting for. Hey!” He burst out laughing when she used her foot to shove him off the bed.

“I could’ve broken something.” He sat there looking up at her.

“Hopefully, your ego.”

“Come down here and join me.”

“No.” She settled into a pout even though her heart was racing. He looked so boyish, his hair sliding down his forehead, a smile curving his sensuous lips. She’d thought about calling him but didn’t want to be one of those needy women who ran to their man whenever they were feeling poorly.

“Sure?”

“Positive.” She watched, her blood pressure spiking as he unbuttoned his shirt slowly. He got rid of the herringbone tie and then shrugged off his pink shirt. The white undershirt came next, leaving his chest bare.

“Changed your mind?” He was taking off his belt and slipping out of his shiny Italian loafers.

“No.” Her breasts were tingling, the achy feeling increasing. Even the thin silk of the robe was agonizing. She needed his lips on them so bad she was almost going delirious.

He finished taking off the rest of his clothing and stretched full-length out on the carpet, his hands knotted behind his head.

“You think you can tempt me with that?” She gestured with one hand to the magnificent display of manhood. The muscles in his chest and arms were bunched. His stomach was washboard-flat, and the hair covering his member was a shade darker than the hair on his head. He was also fully aroused.

“Can’t I?” A smile was playing around his lips. “Shall we wager on who will be the first to give in?”

“You expect me, a pregnant woman who was so distressed by meeting your ex that I had to be sent home with soup – a woman who is right now forming your child inside me – who feels sick most of the time and my bladder has become as tiny as a walnut-“

“Sweetheart, I want to sink my cock inside you until I touch your womb.”

Nadine shuddered out a breath and felt her pussy getting moist. “I’m not doing this.”

“You’re chickening out.” He said blandly. He looked completely relaxed, and she could almost think that he wasn’t interested except for the throbbing erection between his thighs.

“I’m pregnant.”

His amusement deepened. Moving one hand from behind his head, he closed his fingers around the thick length of him and slid the skin up and down slowly. She was mesmerized, her body feeling as if a torch had been lit inside her.

Someone was putting logs on the flame, stoking it until she was sure she was going to explode. "Darling?" He murmured silkily, gray eyes taking the play of emotions on her expressive face.

"I hate you." She whispered huskily.

"Does that mean- " His voice petered off as she flung the sheets off her and got rid of the robe.

"If I get carpet burns on my ass, I’m going to kill you." She warned.

"Noted, darling.” Turning on his side, he cupped her cheek. “What took you so long? If you’d waited a few seconds more, I would’ve caved." He grinned at the murderous look on her face. "I am, of course, happy to see how eager you are to feel me inside you.”

“I think I’ve changed my mind." She started to push him away, but he climbed on top of her. He was burning hot for her and couldn’t wait.

"I have to have you. I simply must." He whispered against her mouth. His hand was trembling as he guided himself into her. The familiar, slick feel of her moistness closed around him and sapped his strength. His heart was hammering inside his chest, droning inside his ear. "I don't want to hurt you."

"You won't. You’re not." Her arms came around his neck, and a moan escaped her lips as the hairs on his chest rubbed against her sensitive nipples.

"Nadine, what is it?"

"My nipples." She gasped when he moved even closer.

"You want me to?"

"Yes." She moaned feverishly.

Going to the side, he cupped her breast, using his thumb to caress the tight bud. He would have to ease himself out of her in order to take the bud into his mouth, and he couldn’t bear that.

Not right now. "I’ll get to it." Shifting again, he covered her body with his and drove into her. The first smooth stroke had her arching her back. Her fingers dug into his back, scraping his skin. The orgasm was immediate and vicious and had her crying out his name.

"More." He whispered against her mouth. "Take more."

"I can't."

"Yes. Take all of me, darling." His thrusts became feverish, his control slipping away slowly. He was maddened by her, the fury of emotion driving him and pushing him toward his release. She came again, her face buried in his chest, body quivering. With a muffled roar, he shot his load, his long, lean body shuddering.

His flesh was coated and slick with sweat. Clamping his hands on her face, he took her lips with his, the kiss potent, sending heat rising again. The passion had by no means abated, but he managed to drag his lips from hers and roll off her, flopping back against the carpet as he tried to control his breathing.

He heard when she stirred next to him and turned his head just in time to see her scramble to her knees. "Nadine?"

"I have to pee. Damn, I hate this!" He rose quickly to help her up. Without putting on her robe, she rushed from the room.

He felt the guilt coursing through his body as he sat on the edge of the bed. She hadn’t been feeling her best, and instead of coming home to comfort her, he’d rutted like an animal on top of her. The guilt was mixed with disgust and frustration.

He couldn’t keep his hands off her; that was something he was going to have to try and contain if he could. Getting to his feet, he shrugged into the robe that had been neatly folded on the stool at the end of the bed.

"Need help?" He called out.

"To pee? Really?" He heard the toilet flush and listened as she turned the tap on to wash her hands.

"You were in there a long time." He met her with her robe. "Are you sure you’re okay?"

She nodded and came into his arms, holding on. "I’ve been a major bitch over the last week."

"I can’t disagree with you there." He rubbed her back. “I guess it’s something I’m going to have to live with for now. Hungry?"

"Starving." She admitted with a laugh.

"Then let's get you fed."

Chapter 6

He ended up feeding her, making sure she ate every drop of the soup chock-full of vegetables. She waited until she’d digested the meal and gone to the bathroom to relieve herself for what felt like the hundredth time before she reminded him he still had something to do.

"You should rest."

"I should be taken care of, and my nipples are so sensitive I know I’ll never be able to sleep unless you do something about it."

"Are you sure?" He’d been rough with her, and they both knew it. His craving for her wasn’t something he could control.

"I am. I feel fine, Alec, except for the fact being pregnant has my hormones raging." She flashed him a teasing smile. "As a man, you should be happy I’m so horny."

"As a man, I certainly am, but as the man who‘s in love with you, I’m entitled to be concerned." He touched the faint bruise at the side of her neck and grimaced. "I bit you hard enough to draw blood."

"It was pretty hot. I came when you did." She touched the welts on his chest. "I put my marks on you, too. We were both pretty wound up. It must be the fact we were doing it on the floor."

"Or the fact we simply can’t keep our hands off each other," He muttered. "I should let you rest."

"Are you going to argue with the woman you knocked up?" She demanded.

His eyes narrowed. "How long are you going to use that?"

"As long as possible." Taking his hand, she used it to cup her breast. "I need your mouth, Alec."

With a tortured groan, he slid down so he was in line with the plump flesh. Nadine arched her back in anticipated pleasure, her fingers sliding through the soft silk of his hair. As soon as his tongue touched the flesh, she went flying, a scream escaping her.

Alec felt his cock harden immediately, the fire unfurling in his lower body. He suckled greedily, one hand going between her thighs to feather along the swollen flesh. As soon as he introduced his fingers, sliding into the moistness of her, she came.

Her fingers dragged at his hair as she called out his name feverishly. Transferring to the other nipple, he gave it the same treatment, not stopping until she was writhing beneath him.

He'd thought he could just take care of her needs and then be done with it. He should allow her to get some rest. Now, it was his body raging out of control. He couldn’t sleep unless he was taken care of. Lifting his mouth from her wet nipple, he turned her to the side and slipped into her.

"We’ll take it slow, even if it kills me." He whispered against her ear. He forced himself to do just that. Gritting his teeth and placing a possessive arm around her waist, he undulated his hips in a timely fashion, sliding in and out of her and prolonging the torture, the exquisite pleasure of her wrapped around him.

She drew up her knees, giving him even more access to her, and he used the opportunity to sink deeper inside her.

"Alec…."

"My love." Bending his head, he kissed the back of her neck, teasing the flesh, nibbling at the soft and scented skin.

"It's too much." Her fingers were laced through his, holding onto him tightly.

"I know, my darling. I just want to draw it out a little." He pulled her nipple into his mouth and sucked hard, causing her to tremble violently. The climax was vicious, tearing at her and making her crumble. She bit her lip to stop the scream, wondering hazily how she could possibly be coming again.

"More!" He was greedy and insatiable. Her passion causing him to fly into orbit. "Take more." Unlinking their fingers, he cupped her breast and pulled at the nipple.

"I can't." She gasped.

"Take more." He was relentless as he increased the pace. "Please." His breath was shuddering inside his chest; his blood felt as if it was boiling.

She came again, her body arching. Twisting her head, she sought his lips desperately. Responding to her unspoken cry, he kissed her as he climaxed. She swallowed his groans, one hand going up to curve around his neck.

He held her like that, spooning her. He was still inside her as he waited for the storm to abate. "Go to sleep." He whispered hoarsely.

"Yes." She was exhausted, and the feel of him buried deep inside her was somehow comforting. She didn’t want him to move. Closing her eyes, she moved her butt even closer to him, a smile crossing her lips.

Within minutes, Alec could hear her breathing steadily, indicating she was asleep. He was still restless, however, as he was accustomed to just a few hours of rest, and it was still early. He loved the feel of her against him.

He had been rough again, he thought wryly, fingers touching the raised welt on her neck. He couldn’t seem to help himself when it came to her. Who would’ve thought that it would come to this?

She made him feel vulnerable. He loved her so much that it scared the crap out of him! Even so, he couldn’t offer her marriage, not yet. He was still reeling from the previous rejection. It wasn’t fair to her, of course, but he couldn’t bring himself to say the words he knew she wanted to hear.

At least, not yet. Sighing softly, he settled against the pillows and closed his eyes.

*****

Alec did the walkthrough, his experienced eyes taking in the tacky workspace and the dingy cubicles. The lighting was poor, and the building itself was depressing.

The employees looked like drones, slouched over their equipment with blank expressions on their faces. It was a software company he had his eyes on, and instead of relying on the reports from his acquisition team, he’d decided to take a look at the place for himself.

He was happy he’d as he got to see firsthand what he was dealing with. He had a knack for feeling out the different companies and making projections. It was what he was good at. Ritter Investment had its fingers in many pies.

His blood would rush at the idea of taking a company and making it viable again. The more hopeless it looked, the more challenged he was.

Tuning out the nervous chatter of the manager, he made mental notes as to the things he wanted to be done as soon as the contract was signed.

He didn’t sanction relieving people of their jobs and would give options for resignation with a full three months’ salary and a recommendation letter if the person decided they’d rather be somewhere else.

He was a very generous, if exacting, employee and didn’t tolerate lateness or laziness. He strongly believed a happy employee meant greater production.

"There’s no lunchroom for the staff?" He said with a frown. The walkthrough was over, and they were in the storage area.

"They prefer to eat at their desks." Milton Grange licked his lips nervously as he stared at the imposing-looking man. He hadn’t been told that Alec Ritter himself would be making the visit, or he would’ve tried to tidy up a little.

Alec raised his eyebrows but made no comment. Milton shifted from one foot to the next, his armpits sweating copiously. He wasn’t just the manager; he was also the owner. The company had been in his family for years, but he hadn’t done a good job of maintaining it.

The profit margin had decreased over the last few years, and they were steadily losing clients to their competitors. A buyout or takeover was imminent, and he’d been dreading this for the past year. Alec Ritter was a visionary, and he supposed he should be grateful it was his company taking him over.

“I did my best.”

“That’s not true, is it?” Alec asked mildly. Just then, his phone vibrated. Excusing himself, he pulled it out. “I have to take this.” He said briefly. The man nodded and left, giving him privacy. “Hey. I’m just-“

“I’m at the hospital.”

His heart slammed into his chest, and he felt himself going weak. “Which one?”

She told him.

“I’m on my way. What’s wrong? Is it the baby?”

“My blood pressure is through the roof, and the sickness has gotten a lot worse. I’ve been throwing up since you left.”

“I’ll be there shortly.” He hung up and felt his hands go clammy. “I have to go.”

“Will you- “

“We’ll contact you in a few days. The lawyers have already drawn the paperwork up. Sign it, Mr. Grange; it’s a reasonable deal.” Without waiting for a response, he strode off.

*****

The hospital parking lot was crammed with reporters. His office had called to alert him that somehow, word had gotten out Nadine was pregnant, and she was in the hospital.
“Contain this, will you?” He snapped at his assistant as he alighted the vehicle.

Mowing through the reporters rushing towards him, he made his way into the reception area, where a doctor was waiting for him.

“We have security posted at the front to stop anyone who isn’t authorized to be here.”

“Where is she?” Alec asked shortly.

“In the emergency room. Her doctor, Dr. Wallace, is in with her.”
“What’s the problem?” Alec barely spared him a glance as they made their way through the waiting room filled with patients, most of whom were giving him curious looks.

“Her blood pressure is troubling, and she’s dehydrated. She’s experiencing hyperemesis gravidarum. That’s when the vomiting is persistent.”

“I don’t understand. She was okay. She’s two months pregnant, and aside from the usual morning sickness, she was getting on great.”

“These things happen.” Dr. Cutler pushed the doors open to the room they’d assigned to Nadine. She was hooked up to several monitors, and her eyes were closed.

“Is she sleeping?”

“No. She-“

“I’m awake.” She tried for a tremulous smile as she reached a hand out to him. “Hi, darling. I hope I didn’t catch you in the middle of negotiating.”

“Nothing’s more important than being here.” He strode over to take her hand. “I guess you’ll do anything to get my attention.”

“You caught me.” She squeezed his hands and took a deep breath. “I’m going to have to stay the night.”

The doctors and nurses were milling around, checking vital signs.

“We need to get your blood pressure down.” Dr. Wallace told her with a smile. “And get this pesky sickness under control.”

“I thought it was,” Nadine murmured.

“Hopefully, this will all be over as soon as you hit your second trimester. The good news is that the fetal heartbeat is strong. We’ll leave you two alone.” Her OBGYN touched her hand briefly. “We’ll be back to check on you later on.”

“Thanks.” Pulling up a chair, Alec studied her face. “You didn’t call.”

“I was enjoying a cup of tea when it started.”

“Where was Mrs. Bailey?”

“She went to the market.”

“You were ill, and I wasn’t there.” His eyes darkened as he lifted her hand to his lips.

“I hate hospitals.” She whispered.

“I know.” His grip tightened. She’d told him the story of when she was twelve and almost died because of a mix-up with a prescription. “You know that isn’t going to happen, don’t you?”

“Are you thinking that because you donate a boatload of money, I’m going to be getting special treatment?”

“You better had be. I’m staying the night.”

“You don’t have to.”

“You’re wrong. We’re in this thing together.”

“Are we?” She curled her fingers around his. “Why don’t we switch places, and you be the one to carry this baby?” She teased.

His face was sober. “I would if I could.”

“I think you mean that.”

“I do.”

“That’s sweet.” She smiled at him. “But no matter what happens, I’m ecstatic to be carrying your baby.”

“Thank you.” He said humbly. “There’s something else.”

“Uh-oh. Don’t tell me you lost your fortune.”

He grinned, his mood getting much lighter. “Nothing that drastic.”

“I’m disappointed. I was about to say that I wouldn’t mind being your sugar momma.”

Leaning over, he kissed one smooth cheek, delighted in her. “That’s adorable. We’re outed, by the way.”

“Outed? As in – Oh. How bad?”

“The parking lot is teeming with parasites.”

She grinned at his scathing term. “How did they find out?”

“I’ve no idea. Whom did you tell?”

“Gavin, Mama, and Kelly.” Her brows cleared. “Mama. I warned her to keep her mouth shut about it, but I should’ve known better. She’s in a book club, and all they do is sit around gossiping. Lord, I’m sorry.”

“I’ve asked my PR department to deal with it. You’re probably going to have to call your publicist and producer as well as your agent.”

“I’m not looking forward to that.” She sighed. “I turned my phone off after I called you. I suppose I should call Gavin and Mama.”

“I’ll call. You should rest.”

“I am resting.”

“Your blood pressure is up, and talking to your mother always gets you agitated.” The resolution stamped on his handsome face told her he was going to stand his ground. “I’ll also tell her to stay away until you are discharged. I won’t have her upsetting you.”

“I guess you’re right. I’m tired and drained.”

“You should try and get some sleep. I’m not going anywhere.”

“You could just hop into bed with me.” She yawned delicately.

“I’ll stay right here. The chair’s comfortable enough.” Lifting her hand to his lips, he kissed it gently. “I’m here, darling.” He watched her eyes drift shut, and within seconds, she was fast asleep.

He waited until he knew she was asleep before he eased his hand out of hers and rose. Taking out his phone, he placed the call. “Alec, what’s going on?” Nora Manning demanded as soon as she answered the phone.

Glancing at the bed, he made sure Nadine was asleep before stepping out of the room. “She’s experiencing some minor complications.”

“I had to hear about it on the internet!”

“She called me while she was here. I’m calling you now to let you know how she’s coming along.”

“I need to see her.”

He closed his eyes briefly and walked toward the window to look out. It was a little after two in the afternoon, and from his vantage point, he could see some reporters still milling around. Obviously, the PR department had done a good job putting them off.

The few standing around were probably hoping for a tidbit of information to put in the tabloids.

He'd make damn sure nothing else was leaked, or they’d answer to him. He’d donated a stack of money to the hospital and was responsible for the addition of the new pediatric ward. He was quite certain they were vested in keeping things under wrap.

“Not today. If all goes well, she should be out tomorrow.” He said firmly.

“She’s my daughter.’ He heard the sulkiness in her voice and brushed it aside.

“She’s carrying my baby, and that means I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure she’s okay.” He waited for a beat before continuing. “You told the women in your book club circle.”

He waited while she kept silent. “I only mentioned it to one or two of them.” The guilt was even more evident now. “Just a few friends.”

“Who, no doubt, wanted their five minutes of fame and sold their story to a society rag.” He remarked grimly. “There’s a reason we didn’t want it revealed yet, Nora. The place is crawling with reporters looking for a story.”

“I’m sorry.” She sniffed. “She’s my baby, and I need to see her.”

“Not today. As soon as she’s back at the apartment. I don’t want her stressed.”

“Are you implying that I make my own daughter stressed?”

“Perhaps stressed isn’t the word, but she needs her rest, and I’ll make sure she gets it. Oh, and Nora? No more talking to your friends about us. This was what we were staying away from, and now she’s going to be bombarded every time she goes out in public.”

“I just wanted to share the good news.’ The sulk was there still, but it didn’t bother him.

“I appreciate the fact you’re excited, but your daughter happens to be hot property right now, and people salivate when it comes to celebrity news.” He explained patiently.

“Okay, fine.” She grumbled. “Just give her a kiss for me.”

He called Gavin next, and to his great relief, he was understanding. “I’ll call her in a few days. Keep me posted, and I’ll deal with Mama. I know she’s the reason the press is crawling all over this. They’ve been here and have been calling, but I’ve instructed the staff to give the company line. No comment.”

“Thanks, Gavin.”

“Tell her to get well soon.”

“Will do.” He hung up and shoved the phone into his pocket. He’d missed a series of calls- one from his Aunt Corinne. He’d told her the good news, and she was waiting on them to come for a visit. He wanted to tell her what was happening before she heard it elsewhere.

*****

Amelia received the information from a friend, and she had a feeling that her friend had told her out of spite.

“I thought you’d heard, darling. It’s all over the place. Alec and Nadine are expecting a baby. She’s in the hospital, some sort of complication. The hospital is tight-lipped about the reason. I imagine they’re afraid of being sued or having Alec on their bad side. Rumor has it he invested a lot of money there.”

The bitch was pregnant. The thought of Nadine Manning carrying his baby made her want to scream. She’d realized her mistake a few minutes after she’d made it. He’d proposed to her, had been madly in love with her, and she’d been stupid enough to play him against the others she’d been seeing.

She’d thought that if she was contrite enough, he’d happily take her back. After all, they’d shared something special. What she hadn’t expected was that he’d have moved on so soon with a woman who was so famous, as well.

She’d acknowledged grudgingly that the actress was very talented, and she’d seen the two of them holding hands together in public.

Alec was a gentleman. One of those rare breeds who had no problem cherishing and caring for a woman. He’d opened doors for her, literally. He’d rush by the passenger side of the vehicle and open her door, taking her hand in his. She’d felt so special, and then she had to go and spoil it by being stupid.

Her mother had told her scornfully that she had a very good thing and had let it slip through her fingers.

“All that money and looks, darling. You’re never going to find anyone of that ilk again.”

She was right. She wanted him back and thought it’d be easy. All she had to do was bide her time, and he’d come running back. Now, the bitch hadn’t wasted any time and was pregnant. Amelia thought bitterly as she brooded in her drink. All she could hope for was that she’d lose the baby.

Chapter 7

"I’m working from home. Deal with it." He told her firmly. Thankfully, she was only required to stay in the hospital for twenty-four hours, and the doctors were satisfied with her improvement. The fluid intake had done her a world of good, and she was ordered to take it easy for the next couple of days.

The doctor had told her, "Just eat what your stomach can take. We recommend mostly broth, with small helpings of vegetables for now. Your stomach is still raw and needs some time to heal."

"So you can keep an eye on me." She grumbled.

"So I can be here for you." He corrected.

"Don't you have companies to take over?"

"I can do all of that from the comfort of our bedroom." He raised an eyebrow at her. "You’re not getting rid of me. It's going to be rest and more rest with some soup in the middle. I want you better."

"We have the masked ball at the Plaza on Saturday." She reminded him.

He gave her a hard look. "If you feel better by Friday, we’ll consider it. You don’t have to be there. Besides, with the press knowing you’re pregnant, they’re going to be fixated on you. I think it's best we stay put."

Her nostrils flared. He’d only left the hospital to come home and freshen up and had come straight back. She was discharged in the early hours of the evening, and he’d taken her home. "Today’s Wednesday."

"I know."

"I want to go to that ball. I’ve been looking forward to it since the start of the year. It's a charity function geared to drum up money for Down syndrome children, and you know that’s a special cause of mine."

They were in the bedroom with her propped up in bed against a mound of pillows. He’d brought her up a tray after eating his meal downstairs. He hadn’t wanted to take the chance of the smell of the veal upsetting her stomach. Now, he was settled into an easy chair by the hearth, going over a contract.

"I know," he said briefly.

"I want to go." She knew she sounded petulant and sulky, but she didn’t care.

"We’ll see." He shot a glance at her before going back to his contract.

“I’m going."

"Umm-hmm."

She wanted to get up and punch him. Damn the man! She fumed. "I’m not staying in bed for two days. I feel fine; I’m not an invalid."

"Put some music on and relax. Would you like some tea?" He asked her calmly.

"Why don't you put away whatever you’re working on and come to bed?"

"I’m not ready to sleep yet."

"I just want to cuddle."

His gray eyes flickered over the thin blue silk of her robe. Her generous breasts were outlined, the nipples clearly delineated. "I have work, which I’ve been neglecting since you’ve been in the hospital."

"You’re ignoring me." She complained.

"On the contrary." He went back to his contract, and she sat there fuming. Picking up the remote, she turned the TV on and flicked idly through the channels, nothing taking her interest until she came to a celebrity talk show.

"What exciting news!" The woman gushed. "The actress, Nadine Manning, is pregnant. We’re very happy for her and hope she and her baby are healthy.”

“I’m sure Alec Ritter is thrilled. They make an adorable couple, don't they?" Nadine stared at the glossy photo of her and Alec.

She was wearing a ruby-red dress that flattered her full figure, and her dazzling smile revealed her dimples. Alec had been wearing a black tux, and they were holding hands. It’d been an award ceremony a month ago.

"I must say they make a striking pair." The cohost declared.

"I have to agree with you there. I wish them all the best." They went on to other stories, and Nadine turned off the TV and glanced over to see Alec watching her.

"Next, they’re going to be trying to find out if it’s a boy or a girl." She murmured.

"It's too early for that." He pointed mildly, the amusement touching his face. "The host was right; we do make a striking couple."

Ignoring that, she plodded on. “I need you. My breasts are tingling, and I’m horny. What’s it going to take to get you to come to me?"

He felt his heart stuttering inside his chest. He was deliberately staying away from her. He’d even contemplated sleeping in one of the other rooms. He’d picked the most boring and linguistically intricate contract to take his mind off her.

He could’ve gone into his den to finish up, but he didn’t trust her to stay put. The woman he’d fallen in love with didn’t know the meaning of staying still.

"You need rest."

"I’ve been resting for two days." She snapped.

"I’m going to go and get you some tea. How about some saltines as well?"

"I don't need any damn tea or biscuits. What I really need is my man to take care of a certain issue I’m experiencing. Do you want me to beg?"

"It wouldn’t do any good." He told her tightly. "You need to recuperate. Those were the doctors' orders, and I’m bloody well going to follow them. One of us needs some self-control."

"Alec, darling, I’m fine." Her voice softened as she stared at him. "My stomach is back to normal, and my blood pressure is manageable. What I can’t manage is that my heart is racing, and I’m red hot. My nipples are so sensitive I’m going to have to take off this robe. I need you." She added simply.

He wrestled with himself. He should leave her alone. Touching her wasn’t a good idea, no matter how much he wanted to.

The desire was there, and it was fierce, and that was what he was afraid of. He was going to be rough; he just knew it. He wouldn’t be able to help himself. He was already painfully hard, and trying to concentrate on the legal document in his hands was proving to be difficult.

"You think I don't need you?" He asked her softly. "I’m here trying to concentrate on work, trying to ignore the fact that I can see your tits through your robe.

I’m trying to ignore the fact my cock is throbbing, and I’m in absolute agony. You were just in the hospital, for Christ's sake; I should be able to stay away from you long enough for you to recover fully."

"I am recovered." Her expression was pleading. "I feel fine. I’m not just saying that, either. I need you in bed with me, Alec."

He couldn’t resist her. The need to feel her flesh against his was too much. With a frustrated sigh, he rose and put away the document, stripping as he made his way to the bed. By the time he reached her, he was completely naked and throbbing with need.

He stifled a groan as she took off her robe. Sliding between the sheets, he reached for her slowly. "God, help me." He whispered as he drew her into his arms.

*****

“I’ll be watching you." He warned as soon as they stepped into the crowded ballroom.

"I know you will." She grinned at him, and he was taken aback by her smile and her dimples. She was wearing a black lace mask that did little to hide her face and was instantly recognizable. The teal blue dress had a scooped neckline that clung and revealed her bountiful breasts. The skirt was full and flowed freely from waist to ankle.

She was stunning, and there was a glow about her that was unmistakable. He found his chest swelling with pride. They were a couple on the way to becoming a family, and he couldn’t be happier. "Lighten up, darling. It's a party."

"Where you’ll be taking it easy and sitting most of the time."

"It's a party.' She repeated as she leaned in to kiss his cheek. "I intend to enjoy myself."

Tugging her hand away from his, she made her way to the circle of wives before he could stop her.

He watched her for a moment and, shaking his head, went to find some friends of his.

"Darling, you look wonderful," Kelly exclaimed, giving her a hug.

"Pregnancy agrees with you." Leesa pecked her on the cheek. "Did you get the flowers we sent?"

"The boatload of them? Sure." They laughed when Nadine rolled her eyes. "They were donated to the cancer ward. I figured the place could use some cheer."

“You figured right.” Monique touched her hand briefly. “I’m sure you were more than a little worried.”

“Alec was worrying enough for both of us.” They all turned at the sound of the voice coming from the podium.

“For those of you who aren’t familiar with me, I am Dr. Lisa Rhoden.” The lithe African American woman beamed around the room.

“I specialize in children with Down syndrome.” She turned to the projector behind her. “This is my daughter, Rihanna, and she’s agreed for me to use her as a talking point. Firstly, I’m going to be asking some general questions to discover how familiar we are with the genetic disorder.”

“I must say I’m humbled and grateful for the number of people present tonight who are ready and willing to open their checkbooks to donate to this worthy cause.”

She paused and took a sip of her sparkling water. “Let me describe to you what Down syndrome is. It’s a genetic disorder due to an abnormal cell division, resulting in an extra full, or partial copy of, Chromosome twenty-one.”

She paused again and looked around the room, which had gone abnormally still. The waiters had paused in their delivery of the flow of champagne.

“There are further complications, including heart and gastrointestinal disorders. Language is delayed, and short, and long-term memories are impaired.”

Pausing, she took another sip of water. “Please forgive me. I’m just recovering from a bug, but when I was asked to speak at tonight’s function, I couldn’t say no. There are three stages of the disorder. Mild, moderate, or severe.” She turned back to the screen.

“Rihanna is on the moderate side. When I discovered my baby had Down syndrome, I panicked. I’m a doctor, and this was our first pregnancy. We wanted a child, and we wanted one before my biological clock stopped ticking.” She turned to look at the screen at the smiling girl with the coffee and cream complexion.

“I never expected her, and to compound the situation, my husband demanded I have an abortion. That would never happen, and I was determined to bring my beautiful daughter into this world.”

“Bastard,” Nadine whispered, leaning back as she felt Alec behind her.

“I had to bring up Rihanna without him, but I had enormous help, and it made me determined to fight vigorously for other children with this condition. My daughter is living a normal life and is involved in lots of activities. She’s attending a regular high school and is doing amazingly well.”

*****

He knew her well enough to realize she needed quiet, and he had a pretty good idea why. They’d danced and mingled and donated a huge amount of money to the cause.

Sliding into the underground parking garage of the loft, he came to a stop and unbuckled his belt. She stirred and opened her eyes, sitting up.

“You were sleeping?”

“Just resting my eyes.”

“Hmm.” Getting out, he came around and opened her door. Taking her hand, he tucked it through his arm and locked the vehicle. “It’s a lovely night.”

“Before we know it, fall will be gone, and we’ll be looking at Christmas.” She observed quietly. He pushed the button for the elevator and guided her in as soon as the doors swung open.

The place was secluded, and that was what he loved most about it. It was monitored 24/7 by his own security company. He didn’t need a guard hanging around his home every day. This was ideal, and his company was one of the best.

Downstairs comprised a well-equipped gym, a storage area, and a bedroom suite, in case he ever decided he wanted live-in help. He was just happy he could be with Nadine alone.

“Okay.” Taking her coat, he hung it on the peg. “Talk to me.”

The large fireplace lent a coziness to the room. Seating her on the snug cream-colored sofa, he sat next to her.

“It’s nothing.”

“Nadine….” He shifted so that he was facing her.

“I waited too long.” Putting away her beaded purse and twisted her fingers together.

“For what?”

She shrugged. “I’m thirty-four years old.”

“And?” He knew where she was going but wanted her to spell it out.

“By the time I have this baby, I’ll be thirty-five. Why did I wait so long?”

“Perhaps you were waiting for the right person, and I like to think that’s me.” He offered quietly.

She stared at him for a few seconds before looking away. The entire evening had her shaken, especially the speech about Down syndrome children. It’d never struck her before that getting pregnant comes with a lot of risks.

This baby could be born deformed. There was no guarantee she was going to have a healthy baby. “What if something happens?”

“What do you mean by that?”

“This baby could be born with a condition.”

“There’s only a small chance of that happening.”

“What if it does happen, though?”

“We’ll deal with it.” He tried not to get impatient. “You’re worrying over nothing.”

“That’s easy for you to say.” She muttered. “The pressure isn’t on you.”

“I want a drink. Can I get you something?” He rose fluidly and walked over to the recessed cabinet, and touched the button.

“You think I’m being paranoid?”

“I think you’re stressing over something that isn’t likely to happen.” He poured a finger of scotch into the glass. “I could get you some tea?”

“I don’t want tea. I’m sick of tea. I’d prefer some of what you are having, but I can’t, can I?”

“Your blood pressure-“

“Never mind that.” She rose and started pacing. “I’m scared, Alec, and I’d like you to stop trying to put me off. I’m not an imbecile.”

“Stop behaving like one, then.” His eyes narrowed dangerously.

“I’m entitled to behave how I want; I’m pregnant. “

“The entire world knows that. You’re going to make yourself ill with all this worry.” He tossed back the drink. “I understand you’re hormonal, but I’d like to have a peaceful night without any drama.”

Her tapered eyebrows shot up as she turned to face him. “Is that what you‘re calling it? Drama? I have genuine concerns-“

“Which aren’t relevant right now. You were just checked out by a team of doctors who gave you and the baby a clean bill of health. There’s nothing to worry about.”

“That’s what a man would say.”

“What do you know? I’m a guy.” He slammed the glass down and started out of the room.

“Where are you going?” She demanded.

“To get some work done.”

“It’s almost midnight.”

“I’m not in the mood for an argument, so you’re on your own.”

She watched with blazing eyes as he strode from the room. She was about to follow him but decided against it. He was right. Blowing out a breath, she went and sat back down. She was being paranoid, but the fear had gripped her.

She was pregnant at this time in her life, and for the first time, she wished she’d done it sooner. If that had been the case, it wouldn’t have been with Alec, and she was happy she waited. She was in love with the man, and no matter what they were arguing about, it had to be him.

Rubbing her hands over her arms, she stared into the mesmerizing blue and red flames of the electronic fire. No matter what happened, Alec wasn’t the kind of guy who’d walk away when the going got tough, and that was something she knew for definite.

Fluffing the cushions behind her, she laid back against it. She was going to have to give him some time to cool off.

*****

He’d decided against going into his den and finishing up the blueprint of a property he was interested in. Stripping out of his formal wear, he donned cargo shorts and a faded college hoodie. Taking the elevator that led off the balcony, he went downstairs and into the gym to work out.

He was pissed. He kept telling himself he should make allowances for the fact she was pregnant. On top of that, she’d been to the hospital because of severe morning sickness and high blood pressure.

He had no idea what women go through when they are having a baby, but he’d done some reading. He should cut her some slack.

Standing just inside the doorway, Nadine watched as he lifted the weights over his head and held it aloft before putting it back into the slot. His face was streaming with sweat, his hair clinging to his forehead. His legs were bare and long, the muscles toned.

He’d rolled up the sleeves of the old sweatshirt, and she could see the muscles flexing as he lifted the weights again. Waiting until he’d dropped it back, she made her presence known.

"I thought you were working."

"I changed my mind." Sitting up, he reached for the towel he’d slung over a chair and mopped his face.

"I want to apologize."

He tilted his head but didn’t say anything.

Trying not to show how irritated she was, she plodded on. "I was a major bitch."

"I wouldn’t disagree " Slinging the towel around his neck, he walked past her to the mini-fridge to get a bottle of water.

"I’m sorry."

"For what, exactly?" Uncapping the bottle, he took a long swig and almost finished the bottle. "For thinking that, if and when problems arise, I’m going to take off? For working yourself into a frenzy because of a nonexistent problem?"

Her eyes flashed. "I’m scared."

"Noted. What’re we going to do about it, Nadine? We can’t turn back time. We both have enough money to ensure the best healthcare available. I can’t argue every time you have some sort of insecurity. You’re stressing yourself out, and that’s not good for the baby."

She closed her eyes briefly. "I keep thinking I have seven months to go, and anything can happen."

"Do you still want this baby?" He’d finished the water and tossed the bottle into the recycle bin.

"What?" She blinked. "How can you ask me that?"

"It's a reasonable question."

"You know I do."

"Then act like it." With that, he turned and left her standing there.

Chapter 8

Setting her lips, she took several deep breaths before she marched after him. She was damned if he was going to walk out on her when she was trying her best to apologize.

She found him in the shower, the water from the jet stream pounding on him. He had his head bowed, and his eyes closed. Luckily, that gave her the opportunity to study his body. His muscles were well defined, and he had a lovely tight taut.

She’d always been amazed at the fact that he had such a shapely butt. His skin was golden brown, and he had broad shoulders.

She could feel the saliva pooling inside her mouth as she continued to stare. Making a decision, she wriggled out of her dress and tossed it onto a padded seat in front of the double sink. Slipping off her half bra, she wriggled out of her matching lace panties.

He didn’t notice her until she was behind him. He stiffened when she ran the soapy sponge over his back, his muscles twitching in awareness.

"You missed a spot." She whispered huskily. "Just thought I’d fix that."

He grunted but didn’t say anything. He didn’t turn around, either.

“I’m sorry; I might have to apologize again before I deliver this baby. I’ll try my best to dial down on the bitchiness."

She paused and waited for him to respond, and when he didn't, she stifled a sigh. "Okay, I’ll do all the talking. You are, after all, the strong, silent type." She was running the sponge over his butt and reaching around to his cock.

Alec wasn’t immune to her touch, far from it. Her tenderness was making his blood boil, and she could feel his arousal. His heart was hammering inside his chest. He’d marched up here and into the shower with the intention of cooling off. Now, he was primed and ready for her.

"Being the strong, silent type, you prefer to stew in silence." She purred as she ran the sponge over the length of his penis, already sensing victory. "I’ll let you continue to stew and sulk while I do this. I don't know if I told you how impressed I am by this. Especially this bit.” She unerringly found the tip of him and paid careful attention to it.

She was pressed against him, and he could feel her nipples boring into his skin like a branding iron, searing his flesh. "When you’re inside me-" She puffed out her cheeks. Dropping the sponge, she used her fingers to grasp the hard flesh and started pumping him. "I can’t describe what it feels like."

"Try." He whispered harshly. If she continued, he was going to flood her fingers with his come. He was that close.

"It forms this fire in the pit of my belly and spreads through the rest of my body." Her breath was coming in pants now as she increased her pace. “It’s as if I’m being violently dragged into space, my body nerveless. I’ve never experienced anything like that before."

She gasped when he suddenly pulled out of her grasp and turned to face her. His gray eyes had darkened, and his face burned with passion. Curving a hand around her neck, he brought her face up to his. "I’m still mad as hell with you." He growled.

"I know, but I need you, darling." Her voice was hoarse. "Be mad at me later."

"Count on it." He kissed her passionately. Moving into him, she wrapped her hands around his trim waist and melted into him. No one could kiss like Alec, she thought dazedly. If she ever suspected he was kissing another woman like that, she’d die of heartbreak. That was after she’d murdered him and the other woman.

The feeling of possessiveness washed over her, and her hands tightened, fingers digging into his skin. She gave everything to the kiss, her love, and regret at the earlier argument. Alec wanted to devour her. He wanted to swallow her whole; so much was his need for her. It fired his body and imagination and melted away the last of his anger.

She had that power over him, the power to forget everything but her. The power to make him tremble and go weak at the knees. His hands slid from her neck to knead her shoulders before going down to her back and her plump ass. He massaged the silky flesh, now completely wet.

Pulling her tightly against him, he allowed her to feel the blood pumping through his veins; he wanted her horizontal, not up against the tiles. He had to bear in mind she was pregnant, and accidents can happen in the bathroom. With that in mind, he managed to drag his lips from hers.

"Not here." He said thickly as he looked at her swollen lips. Reaching out, he grabbed a couple of towels. Handing her one, he took her hand and led her out of the shower and into the bedroom.

"Let me." Taking the towel from her, he patted her skin to remove the water. "Get on the bed."

She did so silently, sliding between the sheets. She watched as he toweled himself dry, his eyes on her. Dropping the towel, he climbed in next to her, pressing his body against hers.

"We will talk." He warned.

"I know." Her hands came around his neck as she brought his head down to hers. "Just not right now."

"Soon." He nuzzled at her lips, teasing her with his tongue. He couldn’t get enough of her. "You interrupted my bath."

"I’m guessing you don't mind." Her breasts were aching, and her body was melting.

"I’ll let you know." He started nibbling her neck.

"Hmm. Don't stop."

"I don't intend to." Pushing her back against the pillows, he toyed with her breast. "Still sensitive?"

"Always." She moaned when he circled his thumb over her nipple. "I need you."

"I’ll get to it." He plucked at the nipple before taking it in his mouth and swirling his tongue back and forth. She arched towards him, fingers closing into his hair and holding on. When he started suckling, she had to fight the urge to scream. Her entire body was pulsing like one big nerve ending.

Alec slid a hand between her thighs to touch the protruding flesh. Her body heaved, and her heart shuddered as she rotated her hips. His fingers slid in, the growl almost silenced by her flesh inside his mouth. She was wet and tight. It always threw him off how much she fitted him, how much just the touch of her was able to scramble his mind.

He transferred to the other nipple and gave it the same treatment. She was practically vibrating by the time he slid further down her body. Her hands left his hair to clutch at the sheets as she tried to anchor herself. When his tongue touched her swollen clitoris, she screamed and came violently.

Her body hadn’t recovered from the first climax when he plunged his tongue inside her. It was too much, she thought, her body trembling. She couldn’t contain herself; her entire insides felt like she was dissolving.

She came again, the climax tearing through her body with a force that had her heart shuddering inside her chest. She was sobbing, and her fingers were curled tight into the sheets.

Alec hovered over her, his own lean body shuddering, eyes darkened to almost black. He entered her swiftly. He’d lost control and was overcome with desire. He gritted his teeth as he pushed deeper into her. His body covered hers, and he had to stay still for a while and get his breathing under control. “Undo me.” He breathed out slowly.

“You make me feel like no one has ever done before.” He touched his lips to hers and breathed in her scent, the taste of her. “I love you, dammit. I love you so much I can’t stand it.”

Her lashes were wet with tears. Her body was still shaking from the storm he’d wreaked inside her. She was filled to the brim by him, and still, it wasn’t enough. She wanted to crawl into him, burrow there and never come back out. Her hands lifted to palm his face.

“I adore you.” She whispered shakily. “So, the feeling is mutual.”

Her words spurred him on, and as soon as he started thrusting, he came, flooding her until he was spent. It took a few minutes for him to recover and to shift his weight from on top of her.

“Stay.” She whispered in his throat, arms curved around his neck.

“I’m crushing you.” He protested.

“I need to hold you like this for a little bit.”

“The baby-“

“Is well cushioned. Stay.”

He did, his cock still throbbing and his heart racing.

He kissed the side of her neck, closing his eyes as the scent of her filled his nostrils. He still had the taste of her inside his mouth, the musky, addictive taste of her on his tongue. With a reluctant sigh, he shifted so he was on his side, one hand draped around her waist.

“Are we okay?” She whispered, fingers combing back the hair that had fallen on his forehead.

“What do you think?” He said with an indulgent expression on his face.

“I think we are.”

“There you go, then.” He tucked a lock of hair behind her ear, his finger trailing down her cheek. “You’re the only person who can piss me off and make me feel like I’m drowning at the same time.”

“Is that a good thing?” She asked cheekily. She was in bed with the man she loved more than life itself, and it felt so good she couldn’t think about anything else.

“I’m still trying to decide. You should get some sleep.” He tucked her into the crook of his shoulder and stroked her back slowly.

“That isn’t going to do the trick.”

“What trick?”

“Getting me to go to sleep.”

“Control yourself, woman.” He growled in her ear, sending her into gales of laughter. “What are you? A rabbit?”

“Why don’t we find out?” She reached between his thighs to curl her fingers around his flaccid penis.

“You have to give me time to recover.” He groaned when she started pulling back the skin.

“Are you recovered now?” She could feel him already hardening.

“Give me a few seconds. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.”

“I won’t.” She grinned as he climbed on top of her.

*****

In a sumptuous apartment in the uptown area along the boulevard, Amelia was alone in her cream and peach bedroom, wearing a pink silk robe that had been given to her by Alec.

Amelia had been at the charity ball and had seen the two of them together. She’d tried to strike up a conversation with Alec, but he’d brushed her off rudely and warned her against upsetting his precious actress.

She’d seen the way he held her, the jealous look on his face, and the adoring way he constantly kissed her. On the dance floor, they'd practically been making love. They’d been so wrapped up in each other; she doubted they noticed anyone else.

They certainly didn’t notice her and the tiresome man she’d attended the function with. She’d taken Larry as her date in a desperate bid not to go alone. He was a lawyer and was constantly talking about his day in court. He was also terrible in bed.

Not like Alec. She took a large sip of her margarita. She’d started drinking when she got home half an hour ago.

She’d seen when they left together, his hand around her waist. In a fit of pique, she’d agreed to Larry coming back with her, and after having him rutting on her with his pencil-thin dick, she’d kicked him out. He wasn’t Alec, none of them were, and she was constantly kicking herself for allowing him to slip out of her grasp.

Settling back against the cushions, she stared into the electronic fire as she recalled the day he’d proposed to her. “I’m not ready yet, darling. It’s a very lovely ring, though. It looks like an heirloom.”

“It is.” He’d told her tightly. “You’re turning me down?”

“Not exactly; I’m just saying I’m not ready to be a wife. Not yet.”

He'd left the apartment straight away and hadn’t called her for a couple of days. She’d decided to spite him by inviting his friend, Roland, over that night. Unfortunately, it was the same night Alec had decided to break his silent treatment and come over.

She’d screamed at him and accused him of abusing his privilege. She’d also told him she was involved with someone else, as well as Roland.

“I don’t believe in being monogamous.” She’d said dismissively.

He’d left then, and she’d never heard from him again. He’d cut her out of his life and refused to take her calls. Now, he was with someone else, and they were having a baby together. She felt the self-pitying tears sting the back of her eyes.

She vividly remembered the sex that would have her crying out his name. No one had ever been able to top what she felt when she was with him.

Now, she’d lost him. Before that bitch was pregnant, she stood a chance, but Alec was too much of a gentleman to leave the woman carrying his child. Unless…her heart shuddered as she gulped air into her lungs.

Unless something should happen to shake her up so much, she’d miscarry. Surely losing the baby would drive a wedge between them. Then, she’d just swoop in and be the woman he could talk to and seek comfort from.

The bitch was an actress, and Amelia was certain she was accustomed to getting fan mail from crazy people. She could pretend to be or hire someone to pose as a crazed fan. She could flood her mailbox with letters stating how much she was loved and how he couldn’t wait to be with her.

Put the fear of God in her enough to send her over the edge. The idea delighted her so much and developed so rapidly that she felt better than she’d felt in months.

She was going to get him back. He was hers. She’d done something foolish and lost him, but she was going to get him back. She wasn’t going to sit on her laurels and whine or bitch. She was going to take action.

She hadn’t been prepared to spoil her figure by getting pregnant. In fact, she didn’t even want children, but she was willing to put aside her distaste to accommodate the man she loved. What was more, she had the money to accomplish what she needed to do.

She’d start writing the letters herself. She’d seen it done in the movies. Using gloves and cutouts from magazines, she’d start immediately.

Taking smaller sips of her drink, she felt her mind getting calmer. Yes, that was precisely what she’d do. She should have taken the initiative to fight for her man before, but that oversight was about to be corrected.

*****

Blissfully unaware of what was in store for her, Nadine had finally settled on having the family over for dinner at the apartment.

“I know you don’t want to go, so I’m having it here. We can kick them out if it gets too rowdy.” She told Alec with a smile. A week had passed since they’d the fight after the ball, and things were going great.

She’d had to deal with her agent, the director, and the cast of the series, which had all gone surprisingly well. The press was giving them a break due to a much bigger story of a priest caught with his pants down.

“I never said that.” He murmured mildly. It was so good to see her healthy and glowing. She was two weeks away from going into the second trimester, and the morning sickness had almost disappeared.

She threw him a look. “You didn’t have to. I could see it on your face. Besides, I’m only having Mama and Gavin and his girlfriend over.” She added with a grimace.

“You don’t like her?” They were having a quiet after-dinner drink on the balcony.

“She was married.” She said as if that was an explanation enough.

He raised his eyebrows. “Surely you have something better than that.”

She shrugged and took another sip of her fruit wine. “She must’ve done something to get to that stage. She might be into him because of who we are.” She pointed her finger between them.

“Or, she might just be into him for himself.” He stretched his legs out, one hand curved around the back of where she was sitting. He trailed a finger down her exposed neck slowly. It had been a rather hectic two weeks for him, and just sitting here with her was something he was enjoying.

Right after they finished their drinks, he was going to make love to her right here on the chaise. “You should take the chance to get to know her.”

“You should have her checked out. That security team of yours is very good.”

“Yes, they are.” He shot her an amused look. “I’m surprised you didn’t ask that before.”

“I was busy getting pregnant. Now I’m thinking more clearly. I’d hate the idea he was hooked up with a gold digger.”

“What if she isn’t a gold digger?”

“She’s still divorced.” She pouted a little and made him laugh. “He’s handsome, articulate, and quite the catch. There’re plenty of single women who’d be honored to be with him.”

“Have you told him that?”

“He’s upset I don’t like her.”

“Aside from her marital status, what is it that puts you off her?”

She thought about it for a moment. The woman was quite friendly and had made several attempts to get close to her. “She’s trying too hard.”

“You are Gavin’s sister; it’s only natural she’s going to want to get close to you.”

“I suppose.”

He could see she wasn’t convinced.

“Your brother didn’t approve of me at first.” He added.

“That’s because you were in a public relationship just months before we met.”

He nodded his head in agreement. “Have you ever spoken to her?”

“I’ve only met her twice when we’ve had family dinners. He just met her.”

He raised his eyebrows.

“It’s different for us.” She said hastily.

“How?”

“I’m not after your money.”

“Some people would beg to differ.” He grinned at her glacial look.

“I have my own money. More than I can ever spend.”

“Some might say that’s pocket change compared to what I have.”

“If you’re going to be a dick, I’m ending the discussion.” She warned.

“I’m through for now.” Picking up her free hand, he kissed her fingers. “If you really want the security team to check her out, I’ll make the call.”

“Think I should?”

He shrugged. “You can never be too careful.”

“You don’t mind her coming to dinner here?”

“Darling, the place is as much yours as it is mine. I have no problem with the young lady. She was very nice to me.”

She eyed him darkly. “That’s because you are a hot multi-billionaire.” She muttered.

“That could be it.” He laughed as he drew her against him. “To put your mind at rest, I’ll give them a call and get them to start digging.”

“That sounds so awful.”

“It’s up to you, darling.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Hmm.” He was busily nibbling at her neck. “You taste wonderful.”

“Good enough to eat?”

“Absolutely.”

Chapter 9

He was the perfect host. Mrs. Bailey had prepared the meal before she left, and the only thing they had to do was put it on the table. He’d insisted on helping her. "You have phone calls to make." She had protested.

"They can wait. I don't want you doing too much”.

He and Gavin were cautious around each other, and it amused her to see them circling as if they were testing the other out.

Her mother was in her element, flitting from the kitchen to the dining room and taking charge as usual. Nadine managed to keep everything down and was in the living room, where the electronic fire was casting shadows over the wallpaper.

"Why don't I show you the game room, Gavin?" Alec gave her a pointed look as he rose.

"We’re just about to have dessert." Nadine sent him a desperate look.

"We can have that later. Shall we?" Ignoring the daggers directed at him, he led the way out with Gavin following him.

"I’ll see to packing the dishwasher. It's not right for that housekeeper of yours to find a dirty kitchen when she comes back." Nora also rose, brushing her hands over her teal blue cashmere sweater.

"Mama, that's not necessary. It's-"

"I don’t like a dirty kitchen. Relax and talk," She fluttered her hands at the two of them before leaving the room.

"I think that was done deliberately," Deborah murmured wryly, eyeing Nadine thoughtfully.

"Mama’s not the most subtle." She agreed as she sipped her chamomile tea.

"What should we talk about? The fact you don’t trust me or the fact that you wish I’d never met your brother because you wanted someone else for him?"

Nadine was impressed by the woman's bluntness. She had to admit that as far as looks went, Deborah Allen was on the plus side. Her cocoa-brown complexion was smooth and flawless, and her thick dark curls were natural. She was petite, with quiet brown eyes and a serene look on her face.

"Is it that obvious?"

The other woman nodded and shook her head wryly. "I have a sister, and I’m just as protective of her as you are of Gavin. I can tell you there’s nothing to worry about, but I’m afraid you wouldn’t believe me." She gave the younger woman a pensive look. She knew Nadine thought she was into Gavin because of the connections he has.

“My ex-husband was a lousy husband.”

“Yet you stayed with him for years?”

Deborah nodded, a sad look settling on her face. “I didn’t want to divorce him. I’m a member of a Baptist church, and being a divorced woman is something they frown upon.”

“They’d prefer you stay in a marriage that wasn’t working?”

“Something like that. My parents have been married for fifty years.” A smile flitted at her lips. “They just celebrated in August, and seeing them together, it’s like they just met. I wanted that kind of life for myself.

Jason and I got married when we were twenty-two. We were childhood sweethearts and could barely wait to finish college to start our lives together.”

She took a sip of the excellent Cabernet – a fruity red wine that she’d discovered was from Alec’s vineyard in Tuscany.

“He was sweet at first, and I thought we had the perfect marriage until things started going bad for him at the accounting firm where he was a manager. Every time he had a bad day at work, he’d come home and take it out on me. At first, it was just a little verbal push here and there, and I’d do my best to try and placate him."

She stared off into the mesmerizing blaze of the fire, a contemplative look on her face. “Then it escalated into him using his fists. Oh, it was subtle. He didn’t hit me where it would show; then he’d come home with flowers and little treats, telling me how sorry he was."

"Yet you still stayed?"

Deborah glanced at her and smiled. "I was ashamed. I thought it was all my fault, and I hated to think I was a failure in my marriage. I wanted to see if I could salvage it."

"You thought you could somehow change him?" Nadine was starting to feel a stirring of anger for what the woman had gone through. She would never put up with a man abusing her, but she knew that it could happen, even with strong women. The part she plays in the series is a testament to that.

Deborah nodded, blinking away tears. "I had three miscarriages because of his temper."

Nadine went still at that, her heart spiking. "He hit you while you were pregnant?"

"Yes. The last time finally woke me up. He came in drunk one night and started hitting me. I thought I was going to die and managed to call 911. I lost the baby, and that was the end of the line for me." She finished the wine and put down the glass. "It took me years to trust another man." A smile touched her lips.

"Your brother’s different. Gavin is patient and gentle and understood when I wouldn’t let him touch me until months after we’d started seeing each other." She looked at Nadine. "You might think I’m into him for what he can offer, but that’s not the case. I’m in love with him. I fought it at first, but he’s the best thing that has ever happened to me."

There was silence for a moment as both women stared into the fire, each caught up in their own thoughts.

"I’m sorry. " Nadine told her quietly. "I let my prejudice get the better of me. Have you gone to counselling?"

She nodded. "Therapy is doing wonders for me, and Gavin is very supportive."

"I play this role in my series. My character is a strong, independent woman who takes no shit in the corporate world but can’t keep it together at home.” Nadine put down her cup and stretched her legs out.

“When I watch the scenes, especially the ones where my TV husband shouts and belittles me in front of others, I just want to kick his ass. It takes considerable acting skills for me to keep the character. I’m not like that; it’s the complete opposite of who I am.”

She smiled as she said, "I’m very strong-willed, but as much as Alec loves me, he doesn’t let me walk all over him. I’d never get away with that."

She glanced at Deborah. "I’m sorry for not giving you the benefit of the doubt. Both Gavin and I came from humble beginnings, and sometimes it’s difficult for me to let go. It can be overwhelming at times."

"I’m happy we got the chance to be honest with each other."

"So am I."

*****

Gavin cued the ball and made the shot, sending the ball clattering into the pocket.

"Drink?"

"Thanks." Leaning the cue stick against the pool table, he took a look around the large room. "I take it my sister’s not allowed in here?"

Alec grinned as he handed the man the glass. "Do you not know your own sister? It's supposed to be my man cave, but she wanders in and challenges me to a game of chess or pool. She pretty much beats me on all the video games."

Gavin laughed as he wandered over to the console. "How on earth do you find time to come in here and play games?"

"You need to have a balanced life." Alec flicked a switch, and the privacy screen at the large bay window lifted. He touched another button, and the large, flatscreen TV mounted on the wall turned onto ESPN. "Nadine and I lead pretty busy lives, but we also find the time to play and enjoy ourselves."

He sipped his scotch. "When I lived alone, I’d be in here until the early hours of the morning. Now I have Nadine, and she won’t go to bed without me." He smiled and glanced at Gavin. "You’re in a serious relationship yourself?"

Gavin shrugged. Picking up a dart, he threw it at the board and watched as it missed the mark by a few inches. "Deb has been through a lot."

"She was abused, wasn’t she?." Alec watched as the man's mouth tightened. Picking up another dart, he threw it with precision this time, and it landed in the middle of the board. "I want to find the son of a bitch, rip off his cock and stuff it down his throat."

Alec burst out laughing, the rich sound echoing around the room. "I can see you feel strongly about the matter."

Gavin sent him a wry look of grudging admiration. Alec wasn’t so bad after all, and he really loved Nadine; anyone could see that he adored her. "You made sure they were alone?"

"Your mother was in the room."

"Knowing her, she’s probably in the kitchen, leaving Deb and my sister to hash it out. She’s very protective of me."

"Deborah or your sister?"

"My sister. We grew up mostly without a dad, and it was just us. We both want what's best for each other."

"Do you think I’m what's best for her?"

Gavin studied the man leaning against the mahogany desk. He was wearing tan dress pants and a dark blue sweater. His hair was well-groomed, and he looked rich and powerful. "She loves you, and you love her; that’s what matters."

"You’re not going to ask me why we only live together and not getting married?"

Gavin shrugged. "I suspect you have your reasons."

Alec straightened and went to put down his glass. “It’s not something I want to talk about, anyway."

"It's between you and my sister."

"Precisely." They both looked up as the door was pushed open.

"Has the male bonding finished?”

“Mostly.” Gavin watched as the expression on the man’s face softened. “How are you, darling?"

"Coming to tell you thanks for your not-so-subtle maneuvering earlier." She went into his arms as if they were the only people in the room.

"I have no idea what you mean."

Gavin slipped out of the room and closed the door behind him. "You can pretend you’re innocent all you want; I know what you did."

"Hmm. How was it?"

"Enlightening." She cupped his cheek. "She’s been through a lot."

"Does that mean I shouldn’t bother with the background check?"

"I still want it to be done."

"You’re a suspicious one."

"Cautious." Getting on her toes, she pressed her lips to his. "I love you."

"It just so happens. I love you too." He touched her cheek gently.

"I was asked to come in here and tell you dessert is being served."

"After which, we’ll be hurrying your family along. I want to be alone with you."

"Sounds like a plan."

*****

"What's wrong?"

"Indigestion." She rubbed her stomach absently.

"Something else, I think." She was going on four months and had started showing. With the Christmas holidays coming, they seemed to be booked to attend more functions than they could keep track of.

"It's probably nothing."

"Let me be the judge of that.” He’d arrived home early so they could have dinner together.

"My agent was in touch with me this morning and asked me to lunch."

"And?" He rose to pour himself a finger of scotch. “Water?”

“No. I’m fine."

Bringing the drink with him, he sat next to her and placed one hand on her thigh as he leaned back. "What is it?"

"She’s received some letters."

"From fans?"

Nadine nodded a slight frown on her brow. "I’m used to getting fan mail, but these were–“ She shrugged. "They were off."

"How do you mean?"

Reaching over, she plucked an envelope from the table and handed it to him. Removing his hand from her thigh, he put down the glass and took out the folded letters. "They’re cut out from magazines." He observed, scanning them. A frown touched his brow as he read them.

"'Bitch you deserve to die.' 'You are not fit to be a mom.’ Are all of them in the same tone?" He looked up at her. "Any forwarding address?"

She shook her head and heaved out a breath. "I’m used to getting letters from crazies."

"Not of this nature; these are downright malicious, darling. We should contact the police."

"What would we say? They’re just letters."

"They’re threats, and I’m not going to sit by and ignore them." He sifted through the pile and read the rest of them. "It gets meaner with each one. There are twelve letters here." He looked up. "You’re not going anywhere by yourself." He decided.

"I know I decided that already." She took his hand in hers. "The letters I normally get are friendly. People expressing their delight at the show and how much my character has affected them. Some men and a couple of women have expressed their love and devotion and what they’d like to do to me. Harmless stuff, but this is different."

"It’s worrying, as well." He added.

"Yes. There’s a faint scent of perfume."

Picking up one of the letters, he sniffed. "You’re right. You think it's a female?"

"Yes. We’re the most vicious when it boils down to it." She wrapped her fingers around his. "I think we should make a report."

"We should." Reaching for the phone, he placed a call to Wyatt. "He’s a friend and will be able to look into the matter."

She nodded and leaned back against the cushions as he made the call.

*****

Detective Wyatt Llewellyn was the son of a multi-billionaire who’d decided from early on in life he was going to stray from his father’s path to becoming a cop. He was recently married and had become a father, something he hadn’t expected either.

He belonged to the same club as Alec, and they were more than acquaintances.

"Thanks for stopping by."

"I was just getting off my shift." His green eyes twinkled as he stepped into the living room and came toward Nadine. "I heard from the rumor mill that you’re knocked up."

"Bite me." She smiled and walked into his arms, hugging his lean frame in a tight embrace.

"I’m sure Alec’s already doing that." He kissed her cheek and held her chin up so he could study her. "Audra’s in ecstasy over your series. She wants to have you guys over for dinner."

"We’d love to."

"Are those the letters?" Releasing her, he moved towards the Chippendale coffee table.

Alec handed him the envelope, and they both sat and watched him leaf through it, reading swiftly. "I’m betting the person wore gloves." He sniffed at the stationery. "Perfume. Female."

"That's what we figured." Alec's hand reached for Nadine's. "What do you think? Are we being paranoid?"

"I don't think so. These are downright threatening." He looked over at Nadine. "Your fan mail goes to your agent?"

She nodded. "I was told to hire a press secretary, but I hate having people constantly around me."

"Not your usual celebrity, I see." He grinned at her.

"You got it." She tried for a smile.

"I’ll check with your agent and try and find out the source. The fact there’s no forwarding address is worrying. It could be a crank, but you never know. Alec said you’ve never received anything like this before?"

She shook her head. "My first time."

He nodded and read the letters again. "He or she seems to be escalating with each one. They know you’re pregnant, too."

"The entire world knows I’m pregnant. It was on the news and all over the internet."

"The price you pay," Wyatt muttered grimly. "I hate the entire scene."

"Your wife disagrees." Alec pointed out dryly.

"Yeah. Bless her sweet self. She’s the only person who can drag me to those functions. The woman seems to have a hook in me that’s too deep to get out."

He picked up the letters. “I’m taking them with me, and if you receive any more of them, let me know, and I’ll swing by." He smiled at Nadine. "Audra has me watching your series, and I’m hooked. You’re unbelievable."

"Thanks." She and Alec rose and saw him to the front door.

"I’ll be in touch." He told them briefly before leaving.

Closing the doors behind Wyatt, Alec wrapped his arms around Nadine. "He’s a pretty good cop."

"I know." She leaned into him. "I know it's silly, but I want everyone to like me."

"You know that's not possible, darling."

"I know, but I’m used to people wanting the chance to meet me. One woman told me how I changed her life. She was being abused and living with it.

Going to her high-profile job during the day and enduring abuse at home at night. She watched my series and had the courage to kick him out of her life. Things like that make me feel as if I’m doing something worthwhile."

Shifting a little, he tilted her chin up and noticed the shadows in her eyes. Cursing silently, he pasted a smile on his lips. "I, for one, am impressed." He stroked her chin with his thumb. "I’m not going to allow anything to happen to you."

"I know." She clutched at his sweater. "I don't want this to get out."

"It’ll be kept in-house and we’ll take the necessary precautions. How about some tea before we turn in?"

She nodded. "That sounds wonderful."

"Try not to worry too much."

"Who's worried?" She smiled slightly. "I’m sure it’s nothing but someone wanting to get their rocks off."

"I’m sure it is."

But neither of them believed it.

*****

Amelia clapped her hands in delight. The letters had been delivered, and it was now time for phase two. By the time she was through with the bitch, Nadine Manning was going to be afraid of her own shadow. She’d seen them at several functions over the past weeks and had deliberately stayed clear.

She was pretending that she’d moved on to throw suspicion off herself. She had some more letters to deliver and was paying someone to do it for her.

Drop them in random mailboxes, of course, and had warned him to wear a pair of gloves. He was being paid handsomely for the menial job, and the fool was so grateful that he would’ve done anything.

"Whatever else you want me to do, just let me know."

She wasn’t ready to move forward yet. The letters would get meaner and more creative each time, and then she’d move in for the kill. Well, bad choice of words, she thought with a chuckle. She wasn’t going to kill the bitch, really. She’d just see to it that she had an accident that would cause her to lose the brat she was carrying.

She was going to drive a wedge so deep between them that they’d never recover. Then, she’d step into the void. She’d be the sympathetic friend to Alec, soothing him with kind words until he turned to her.

Feeling better than she’d felt in months, she went about putting on her makeup to prepare for lunch with her mother.

Chapter 10

"It's a press party to celebrate the successful season. We’re on a break until after the holidays, when we’ll start shooting the next season. I need to be there, Alec."

"I can’t put off this business trip." He paced the length of the living room, a frown knitting his brow. They were a week away from Christmas when he planned on whisking her away so they could spend the holidays together.

The office will be closed until the first week in January, but he had some business to tie up in France, something he couldn’t avoid. He would’ve suggested she accompany him, but the doctor had advised against air travel.

"I’ll be fine."

"I can’t take that chance." The letters were still coming, and they were getting even more frightening. The bastard had now resorted to open threats. He’d seen the look on her face when she read them and knew she was afraid. He was scared as well and filled with rage that someone was doing this to her.

"I want you to stay with your mother while I’m gone."

"This place is well secured-"

"Yes, but you’ll be alone when Mrs. Bailey isn’t there."

"Okay." She agreed with a sigh.

"Now about that function-"

"I have to go, Alec. I’m not going to allow some asshole to spoil my fun."

Coming to a decision, he reached for his phone.

"What are you doing?"

"If you insist on going, I’m going to need insurance. Hey, Wyatt, I need a favor."

He listened for a moment and smiled. "Yes, tell her we enjoyed the dinner as well. Listen, I have to go out of town for a couple of days, and Nadine has this press party.

I know how you hate these things, but I wonder if you and Audra would be her date?" He listened again. "Thanks, man, I owe you. She’ll shoot you over the details.” Hanging up, he came to sit next to her.

“I don’t need a babysitter. There’ll be hundreds of people there, and I was planning on inviting Gavin."

"The more, the merrier. Wyatt carries a gun, and no one would dare make a move with him at your side. I want him glued to you.”

She wrinkled her nose at him. “I’m pretty sure they wouldn’t dare show their face in public."

"From the tone of the letters, it seems we’re dealing with a very sick person who could be mentally ill." He was frustrated at how little they had to go on. The letters kept coming, but so far, there was no lead.

“He’s going to slip up, and we’ll catch him. " Wyatt had assured them. Alec couldn’t help but wonder if it would be too late. The fear was like slivers of ice sliding into his chest.

"I’m already being extra cautious." She took his hand in hers. "You assigned a driver to me who looks more like a Sumo wrestler than a chauffeur. "

"He’s a former Navy seal."

"There you go. He doesn’t say a word. He’s scary as hell."

Alec chuckled. "He’s a man of very few words, but his commitment to me is undeniable."

"What's the story there?"

"We went to school together."

"You’re kidding."

"Nope." He grinned. "A scholarship student at the exclusive boys' school I attended. He was this scrawny kid who used to get picked on because of the way he looked and the fact he was poor.

It pissed me off the way he was being treated, and one day, while we were playing field hockey, one of the guys knocked him over the head and broke his stick. I knocked him down and broke his nose."

"Look at you. Defender of the underdog." She beamed at him.

"I got suspended for a week." He told her wryly.

"What about the other guy?"

"He was suspended for two weeks. Marvin and I became friends after that."

"You said he was scrawny?"

"Like a toothpick. He decided to change that, and I’d invite him over to our house to use the gym. Our company also invested in his education."

"No wonder he’s grateful. He just decided to come to work for you?"

"He was injured on the job and had to take early retirement. I offered him a position in the company. He’s head of our security company."

Her eyebrows lifted. "Why do you have him driving me around, then?"

"He offered when I explained the situation. I asked him for a man he could trust, and he insisted on doing it himself. I trust him with my life, and so should you."

"Oh, I do. It’s just he doesn’t say anything and insists on making me sit in the back seat."

"That’s the standard requirement." He gave her an amused look. "You just want to be friends with everyone."

"What's wrong with that?"

"Nothing at all, my darling. Marvin is serious about his job and doesn’t tolerate distractions." He flicked a finger at her nose. "You happen to be a big one."

"I just asked how he was and if he had a partner." She sniffed.

Alec chuckled. "What did he say?"

"Nothing, he just grunted. It was so frustrating."

"He isn’t going to talk about his personal life, darling. It's not a pretty story."

"What happened?"

"You’re determined to dig into his private life, aren't you?"

"I want to know the man who’s driving me around."

"His wife and daughter were involved in a car crash several years ago."

That jolted her, and for a few seconds, she was quiet. "That's-"

Alec nodded. "He still hasn’t recovered."

"How could he be? How old was the child?"

"Three years old. A drunk driver ran a stop light.”

“Oh, dear God. No wonder he’s so quiet."

"He was like that before."

"He talks to you, though?"

"We’ve been friends for years." Lifting her hand, he kissed her fingers, gray eyes warm. "I trust you won’t say anything to him?"

Her eyes flashed. "I’m not completely insensitive!"

"I never said you were."

"He should find someone to take away the pain." She murmured absently.

"Nadine."

"What?"

"Please don’t start. Marvin doesn’t need you setting him up."

"I know just the person-"

"Stop." He ordered quietly. "You’re not a dating service."

"I could be." She grinned at him. "Okay, fine. I’ll behave."

"Thank you." Pulling her into his arms, he placed a hand over her bump and felt the flutter against his fingers.

"The tree looks marvelous." Leaning back against his chest, she stared at the frosted white needles with the shiny bulbs hanging from the branches. It was a towering eight-foot deal with a winged angel on top.

"It does." He wrapped his arms around her and closed his eyes as he inhaled her scent. He felt tears welling up behind his eyes. The thought of anything happening to her was making him crazy. "I can’t lose you." He told her suddenly.

"You won't."

He turned her to face him. "If anything happened to you-"

"It won't."

"If anything should happen to you, I couldn’t bear it."

"I’m being careful. I promise I won’t step foot outside without the Sumo wrestler.”

He chuckled, bending his head to hers. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome. Now, shall we go upstairs and screw each other’s brains out?"

"That sounds like a great idea."

*****

The journey wasn’t the same without her. He hadn’t let her rest last night as he made love to her until the early hours of the morning. The charming pied-a-terre was something the company had bought a few years ago, right after they’d bought out a small but thriving vineyard in Tuscany.

The place was doing well and finally turning a profit. Alec could’ve sent someone else, but he liked to show his face every now and then. There’d also been some issues surrounding the fermentation process.

The flight had been a little uncomfortable on the descent due to the turbulence. He was happy to be on the ground. As soon as he landed, he called Nadine.

"You’re checking up on me? I’m at my Mom's, and I’m not happy. She keeps fluffing my pillows and coming into the room to ask if I need anything. I’ve even turned off the lights and pretended to be asleep."

He chuckled at that. "Did she buy it?"

"Nope. She sat on the edge of the bed and said she knew I was awake."

"It's only for a couple of days. Don’t forget you have that party tomorrow night."

"I’m so looking forward to it. How was the flight?"

"Not bad." He told her lightly.

"What time is it there?"

"Almost midnight. I wanted to talk to you before I went to sleep."

"I’m fine, really."

"I love you."

"I love you too. If any of those hot French mommas approach you, tell them you’ve got your own hot baby momma in the States who isn’t afraid to fight for her man.”

He chuckled. “Should I get rid of the one waiting for me in bed?”

“Kick her out on her ass.”

“She’s naked, and it’s cold, though."

"That's her business. Seriously, darling, turn a blind eye."

"I’ll do my best. Take care."

"I will. Get some sleep."

Hanging up, he climbed into bed and lay there staring at the ceiling. He was not going to rest easy until he was with her.

*****

"I feel like a diva." She murmured as they stepped into the elegant ballroom of the Royal Hotel. She was surrounded by Wyatt, Audra, Gavin, and Deborah, who’d been over the moon at the invitation.

"Maybe I should get an entourage."

"It wouldn’t suit you." Her brother told her bluntly as they made their way through the crowd. He’d been to functions like this plenty of times, and he was still amazed by the sheer opulence. He took Deborah’s hand and squeezed it for reassurance.

"You’re right." She flashed her dazzling smile at both Wyatt and Audra. "Thanks for coming."

"Delighted to be here." Audra slid her hand through her husband's arm and cozied up to him.

"My wife lives for events like these," Wyatt growled, expression softening as he stared at her. "I hate them. I’m going to circle the room to make sure everything’s okay."

"Wyatt?" Nadine's voice stopped him.

"Yeah?”

“Thanks.”

“No sweat.” With that, he strode away.

“I see your very attractive co-star coming this way, darling," Audra said with a smile.

"I hope I don’t embarrass myself," Deborah said nervously.

"They’re just people."

"Easy for you to say, you’re a star."

"Let me introduce you."

Across the room, Amelia sipped champagne and pretended to be engrossed in what the boring actor of a tiny sci-fi series was saying to her. He wasn’t much taller than she was, and his sandy hair was thinning. He’d been hanging onto her every word ever since she arrived, and she couldn’t seem to shake him.

As he started discussing the character she played in that dreadful series, she nodded and smiled. She saw them as soon as they entered and noticed she was surrounded by several people. She knew the guy was her brother and recognized Wyatt and Audra.

A frown crossed her brow as she wondered if it was just a mere coincidence that Wyatt was there. Alec appeared to be out of town, or he would have been in attendance.

She couldn’t try anything here, of course. Maybe she should call the guy and have him put some sort of dead rodent in her car.

She probably came with a driver, though. Amelia had followed her from a discreet distance when she left the apartment a few days ago and had seen the scary-looking driver opening the door for her. Security at the apartment was so tight that no one could get near. She was going to have to find a way to crank up the pressure.

Taking a sip of the champagne, she watched as Nadine preened herself for the camera. She was wearing a woolen dress which was a cross between fuchsia and burgundy, and the bitch was showing. She was surrounded by adoring fans and people fawning all over her.

"That's Nadine Manning." The tedious man next to her sighed in admiration. "I adore her series. She’s very talented."

"I suppose."

He looked at her in surprise, and Amelia realized she didn’t remember his name. "You don't admire her work?"

"I’m not much for watching TV." She commented.

"I see."

She realized her mistake immediately. "I’m sure yours is quite interesting, though."

"That means you haven’t seen it?”

The cretin actually seemed offended. “I‘m afraid not."

"Why did you pretend that you had?"

"I wasn’t pretending," She pursed her lips. "I was just trying not to hurt your feelings."

"I don't need any favors from you." With that, he wheeled away.

"Good riddance." She muttered into her glass. "Wyatt, hi."

The man stopped and gave her a cool glance, sending jitters of fear dancing along her spine. He knew what’d taken place between her and Alec, and being Alec’s friend, he’d naturally take his side. "How are you?"

"Fine. You?"

"Enjoying the party. Is Audra here with you?" She feigned ignorance.

"Yes, she is. We’re here with Nadine."

"Alec isn’t here?"

She could see the barely contained contempt on his face and felt her anger rising. Who was he to judge her?

"No. Please, excuse me."

Her eyes narrowed as she watched him walk away. What a bastard, acting like he was better than she was. She and Alec had been out with him and Audra, and now he was friends with that whore. Goes to show, she thought bitterly, grabbing another flute from the passing waiter and gulping it furiously.

*****

The little chalet was delightful. "Why isn’t anyone staying here?" He’d chosen to drive them here himself, dismissing Marvin until they were back in town.

"That's because we just bought it. What do you think?" It was set atop a hill, and the view from the balcony was astonishing. The air was chilly and had a stillness about it that was somehow comforting.

"I think it’s ideal for a destination wedding. What do you plan on doing with it?" He’d carried their case into the charming yellow and white bedroom and came back out to stand behind her with his arms around her waist.

"It needs work doing inside and out. The fireplaces in all the rooms need varnishing. We also need to repair some of the surrounding walls. The wallpaper needs ripping off and replaced by something a little more cheerful." He kissed the back of her neck and felt contentment settling over him.

Here, he was sure they wouldn’t be bothered by the outside world. They hadn’t told anyone where they were going except for Gavin and Wyatt, and he knew they’d keep it to themselves.

"It's cold." She shivered. Alec wrapped his arms tighter around her.

"How about something to eat?"

"I could cook-"

"Absolutely not. I’ve already made plans. The former owner of the place, Mrs. Curry, has prepared plenty of meals and put them in sealed containers. The fireplace is stocked with chips, and we have the place to ourselves for the duration."

"Sounds like a dream."

He felt her shivering and led her inside, closing the sliding door with a snap.

"Let's go and find out what there is to eat."

"How many rooms has this place got?”

“Eight suites and two bedrooms downstairs. There’s a laundry room, a living area, a dining area, and ah - the kitchen."

"It's huge." She murmured. "Look at that stove!"

"I think it should stay. It gives the place an antiquated look."

"I agree." She went to sit at the dining table near the window. The view was spectacular. Poplars, oaks, and redwood trees with their branches waving in the stiff winter breeze. There was a stream with a small wooden bridge over it. "Why did the former owner sell it?"

He brought over steaming bowls of beef broth and savory homemade bread. The scent of it was making her mouth water. "She lost her husband a year ago and wasn’t able to keep up the payments.”

"You offered to buy her out; then you asked her to stay on and run the place?"

"A pretty good deal, I’d say. How’s the meal?"

"Wonderful. How did you find out about this place?"

"I came here a year ago and loved it. Mrs. Curry is a wonderful host who made me feel right at home."

"Did she know you were scoping the place out?"

He smiled and, reaching over, used his finger to scoop a trace of broth from the corner of her mouth. Bringing it to his lips, he sucked on it and sent heat fluttering into her stomach. His eyes darkened at her reaction.

"No. I wasn’t interested in buying it then. I already have several hotels and chalets scattered all over the world. I didn’t plan on buying another one."

"Did she come to you?”

He nodded. “I’d left my card with her, and she contacted me and said she was thinking of letting it go. I did a little investigating and realized it could be a solid investment."

She propped her elbow on the table and stared at him curiously. "Why do you feel the need to acquire things?"

He gave her an amused look before breaking off a piece of bread and feeding it to her. "You know it’s an investment company, don’t you?”

“I’m not an idiot! It seems to me you have more than enough, and yet you still go after properties."

"It's a challenge to me. My dad did it, and his father before that, and so on. It's exciting to see if I can take a failing company and turn it around to make a profit."

"You love it?"

"I love you." He corrected. "I enjoy my work. I get a rush out of it but make no mistake, you and this baby are the most important part of my life."

"I’m happy to hear it." She spooned some stew into his mouth. "I bought you a few gifts."

"I thought we already opened our presents at the apartment."

"Just a couple of little things. A little something that caught my eye when I was out shopping the other day."

He shook his head. "You must be one of the few celebrities who do their own shopping."

"I don't feel like a celebrity."

"You might not feel like one, but it’s not as if you can just go out and buy a coffee."

"Especially now." She said soberly.

"Especially now." He repeated quietly. He reached out to take her hand. "It’ll all be over soon, and I won’t let it spoil our time together."

She blew out a breath. "You’re right. This week is all about us. I still can’t believe you managed to get an entire week off."

"One of the perks of being the boss. Now eat up. I think we should take a walk before we go to bed."

"Isn't it like below zero?"

"I promise to have you sweating as soon as we get back inside." He told her with a leer.

"Men." She shook her head. "Always thinking about sex."

"We’re single-minded when it comes to that. Finished eating, darling? I want to get back so I can get you naked."

Chapter 11

She was enchanted by the place. The stream had a stillness to it that gave the appearance of being frozen in place.

There were no birds singing and only the occasional sounds of squirrels searching for their next meal. They went over the quaint wooden bridge and ventured into the wooded area, which was filled with flora and fauna.

"I bet it’s spectacular in the summer." She murmured. He was holding her hand and guiding her over the uneven patch of land.

"It is. I came here in the summer once, and over there-" He pointed to a section where some hopeful flowers were still struggling for life.

"It's a burst of color. It's an artist's delight. That's who we’ll be catering to; creative types. Authors who want somewhere quiet and colorful to get the creative juices flowing. It's also a perfect setting for a romantic movie."

She looked up at him and smiled. "You’re absolutely right; we could shoot a scene here. I can see myself and Benny taking the time to escape our hectic lifestyle and just chill here."

"Your TV husband is a jerk, and I don’t see him agreeing to a romantic getaway." He told her mildly.

"You’re right, of course." She snuggled against him and inhaled the fresh air.

"Cold?" He felt her shiver.

"A little bit, but I don't want to go back yet. What is that dilapidated building?" She pointed to what looked like an old barn.

"They had horses here once."

They started walking toward it.

"Are you going to bring the horses back?"

"I might." They stopped in front of the sagging structure, which should have been an eyesore in the otherwise lovely and ethereal area, but somehow, it seemed to belong.

"You should; I could see the guests taking time out to go for a ride."

"So can I." He made a mental note to put the suggestion to the development team.

"We could come back here."

"After the baby?"

"Before, if we feel the need to get away again."

He turned her to face him. "I’m worried about that lunatic stalker you’ve picked up."

"I think the madness has run its course, and it’ll go away soon."

"Hopefully." He agreed but didn’t sound too sure.

"I love what I do. The acting, assuming a whole different persona, is exhilarating. I didn’t count on the notoriety, though, the fact my personal space was going to be invaded, and people were going to be interested in me wearing the same dress three times." She shook her head and rolled her eyes, making him grin. "Like I give a rat's ass."

"Most celebrities have personal assistants who label their clothes, so that doesn’t happen." He pointed out. "You don’t even have a press secretary."

"I don’t see the need for one. I don’t want to get caught up in the hype and the shallowness of the business. I love acting; I just don’t like the side effects. I loved the fact I make a lot of money because I get to help the people I love.

I get to buy what I want and go where I want. I want to be able to pop in for a coffee at Sally's like I used to or go on the subway into Queens. I want to take a walk in Central Park without being mobbed."

"That isn’t going to happen." He pulled off his gloves and cupped her face. "You’re no longer the average person on the street. I love you haven’t allowed the success to go to your head.

You’re still as grounded as ever." A smile flirted at his lips. “You care about people. I’ve seen you give food to the homeless, and I admire you for your humanity. Most people in your position wouldn’t give a damn about people begging on the streets."

She snuggled closer into him, and he wrapped his hands around her waist. "You do the same thing." She whispered into his chest, inhaling her scent into her nostrils. "You give away so much."

"I have the capability to do so." He felt her shiver. "Now, it’s time to go indoors."

She nodded, reluctant to break the hold. Here, where they were, it was just them. A guy and a girl spending time together. They weren’t surrounded by people vying for their attention. It was just them, and it felt wonderful. Here, the cares of the world simply drifted away.

"I’m glad you decided to whisk us away from everything."

"So am I." He took her hand and led them back along the path and across the bridge. He felt peaceful, contented, and out of harm's way. No one would find them here. There were also no pesky reporters following them around, taking pictures.

"Here. Let me." They’d arrived back at the chalet, and he was helping her off with her coat.

"How about some hot chocolate with whipped cream?" He suggested.

"I’d say that’s a very good plan."

"Go on up; I’ll bring a tray. How’s your stomach?"

"Behaving. Sure you don't need my help?"

He gave her an amused look. "The pot’s already boiled, and even someone like me knows how to pour. Go."

"Just checking." She grinned at him before walking out of the room. The fire was blazing in the hearth and sending shadows over the whole room. Each bedroom suite had its own fireplace, and he’d stoked the fire before leaving to go for their walk. He wanted the bedroom to be nice and warm.

Picking up the tray, he made his way upstairs after making sure everywhere was secure. There wasn’t an alarm, just sturdy doors and locks. Alec hadn’t decided whether to upgrade yet.

She’d changed into a slinky black nightgown that molded her curves and highlighted her bump. The sight of it, and the realization that this amazing woman was carrying his child, made his knees weak, and his heart hammered inside his chest.

“Alec?” She’d climbed into bed and was staring at him curiously. "What's wrong?'

'Nothing." He summoned up a smile as he made his way across the room. Placing the tray on the table, he slipped off his boots. “I see you’re ready for bed." His hands cupped the bulge of her belly, the emotion plain to see on his face. "He feels strong. I can feel him moving around in there."

"You think it's a he?" Her hands covered his.

"It's just a generic term."

"I never asked what you’d prefer, although I’m sure you’d want a son to carry on the family name."

"It doesn’t matter."

She raised her tapered eyebrows. "A man with a fortune as large as yours usually wants a son. I’m sure you’re no different."

"I might be." He smiled at her. "I just want our baby to be healthy."

"Me too. The hot chocolate smells divine."

He reached for a large mug and handed it to her. "I wasn’t sure if you wanted something to eat, so I just brought biscuits."

"Have I told you that you’re not only handsome but also extremely practical?" She asked impishly.

"Practical?"

"Hmm. Take off your clothes; I have a use for you already. I’d like to look at that magnificent body of yours."

"You already know what my body looks like." He reminded her wryly.

"I still need to be reminded."

"I have no intentions of satisfying your salacious fantasies."

"Please? While I’m drinking this delicious hot chocolate, I’d like to delight my other senses. Strip."

"You’re unbelievable." Leaning forward, he kissed the whipped cream mustache that’d gathered on her top lip. "I’m going to take a shower."

"Leave the towel in there and come back naked." Her smile widened.

“We’ll see."

She settled back against the pillows and watched as he entered the bathroom and left the door open. She smiled as she sipped her hot chocolate and nibbled on a biscuit. She had an amazing life, and it wasn’t something she took for granted. She’d been brought up in a humble home and had made her own way in life.

She was determined and hadn’t allowed rejection to stop her from realizing her dream. With a little divine intervention, of course, because she truly believed in a higher being.

She was now a respected actress and, somehow, had found the man she’d love for the rest of her life. That was always her fear. She’d seen what celebrity status did to people and had vowed she wasn’t going to jump from one relationship to the next.

Now, she was with Alec, and it was going to last. They’d beat all the odds and stay together. Especially now there was a baby involved. She’d also seen what separation did to a child, and it wasn’t going to happen to hers. She’d fight tooth and nail if she had to in order to keep them together.

She was putting the cup down when he came back into the room, and he was wonderfully naked. The sheen of water was still on his body, and the flames from the fire cast flitting shadows over his golden-brown skin. His hair was still damp, a lock of hair had fallen over his forehead, and he made her mouth water.

"Good enough?"

"Perfect." Stretching a hand out, she beckoned him to come over.

"Your hot chocolate is getting cold."

"So it is." Sitting on the edge of the bed, he used a finger to scoop up some whipped cream. Thinking he was going to put it into his mouth, she jolted in surprise when he rubbed it over her nipples. "I happen to have other plans." He smoothed the cream over her.

"You should get on with it." She urged, feeling the heat gathering between her thighs.

"You shouldn’t rush perfection." He chided, smiling as she rolled her eyes.

“I’m dying here."

"We don’t want that. Do we?" Bending his head, he licked at the cream slowly and thoroughly.

"Alec-" She gasped, her body arching as he started to suckle. "Oh, Lord." She whispered, fingers clutching at his hair. "It feels so good, don't stop.". Using his teeth and tongue, he tortured her until she felt as if every bone in her body had turned to liquid. "I need you inside me."

"Not yet." Switching to the other nipple, he teased it with his tongue before pulling it into his mouth. She screamed when he used his teeth to nibble. One hand nudged her thighs open, and he grunted when he realized she wasn’t wearing any underwear.

He palmed her warm pussy, the dark hair springy against his flesh. Using his thumb, he massaged her swollen clitoris and felt as she shuddered.

He slipped a finger into her and felt his cock harden even more to discover the moistness there. He was rapidly losing control, he thought hazily. His flesh was burning up, and his cock was aching. He couldn’t keep this up much longer. He slipped another finger inside her, and Nadine felt as if she was going to spontaneously combust.

She came violently, the climax washing over her body like a tidal wave. Calling out his name, she gripped his wrist as he continued to drive his fingers into her. "I can't." She was hoarse with emotion, her body still trembling.

"Lie back down." Lifting his head, he stared at her, his eyes darkened. "I want to sink myself into you. I want to come inside you. I need you."

"I need you, too." She raised her quivering hands to welcome him on top of her. He slid into her smoothly, the length and width of him wrapped around by her vice-like grip. He stayed still for a few seconds, his own body vibrating and straining for his release.

"I don't want to come yet." He told her through gritted teeth. "Just let me-" Bending, he brushed his lips against hers, the familiar scent of her overwhelming him. "What do you do to me?" He touched his tongue to her full bottom lip and started nibbling.

His cock was pulsing inside her, and her body was moving beneath his, forcing him to follow suit.

He started out slow and then increased the tempo, his hands wandering from her neck to her ribs and then down to her hips, where his fingers dug into the soft skin. His tongue darted inside her mouth, capturing her moans and his own frantic groans.

He couldn’t get enough of her. It baffled him that he could want her so much. He was addicted to her; she was proving to be his weakness, and it scared him. It frightened him she could wield such power over him.

She came again, clinging to him, her fingers digging into his back. He followed right behind her. His body jerked and shuddered, the vicious climax taking everything from him. Dragging his mouth from hers, he buried his face into her neck as he held on.

It was a few minutes before he could find the strength to ease off and settle next to her, one arm wrapping around her waist and bringing her against him. "I love what you did with the whipped cream."

He chuckled. "Did you now?"

"Yes." Her fingers tangled in the dense hair on his chest, feeling the drops of moisture from the sweat. "Do you think it’ll always be this way between us?" She asked quietly.

He shifted so that he could look into her eyes. "Why do you ask?"

She shrugged a shoulder. "We have the passion and fire now-"

"Don’t forget the love." He pointed out.

"There is that. I just wonder if it’ll fizzle out." Her hand lifted to touch the shallow dimple in his chin. “I’ve seen so many celebrity marriages go down the drain."

"You keep forgetting I’m not a celebrity." He said teasingly.

"You’re more than a celebrity. You’re a high-profile multi-billionaire who insists on investing in the whole damn country."

"Only some of it."

She shot him a glance that had him grinning. "I’m serious, Alec. I don't want this to change. I want us to always want each other.”

"We’re in love with each other." His expression was sober as he returned her gaze. "That's a hell of a start, and I can’t see that changing." He touched her nose and trailed a finger down her cheek.

"I always want you. When I’m in my office, supposed to be concentrating on some paperwork, I’m always thinking of you. It's not just the sex; it’s much more than that. I ask questions like, what’s she doing now? Is she okay? Things like that. You’re constantly on my mind."

"Wasn’t it like that before? With her?" She probed.

"No." He admitted quietly. "There was definitely passion, but I knew deep down she wasn’t sincere. There were times when we had nothing to talk about. The sex was good, but after it was over, I wanted to just get away.

She was always trying to impress me with her sexual expertise, and I didn’t like it." He kissed her lips absently. “When I’m with you, I feel complete, like I can be myself. I don't have to try and impress you or wonder if I’m doing everything right."

"I’m not sure if I should be flattered or offended.”

“I’m being honest. I’ll always be honest with you, Nadine. You bring that out in me. You bring out the best of me. To answer your question, I’m convinced we’re always going to be in love with each other. It will mellow out as we age, but the passion will always be there."

She stared at him for a minute before burying her face into his chest. "You always know the right thing to say."

"That's because it’s coming from the heart."

He rubbed her back. "I hope that sets your mind at rest."

"It does." She clung to him and felt peaceful. "I thank God for you every single day, even when you’re being a pain in the ass, and I want to deck you."

He chuckled, arms tight around her. "Ditto." He whispered against her forehead.

*****

Amelia was at the end of her tether, and she was furious. It was as if they’d dropped off the face of the earth. No one knew where they’d gone. She’d even called Nadine’s agent, pretending she was a reporter, and had been told that Nadine was at an undisclosed location.

The rumor was that Wyatt Llewellyn was looking into the letters being sent to her. Amelia, as well as everyone she knew, was well aware of his reputation as an ace detective who wouldn’t give up.

She had to come up with a new plan. She was going to back off for now and let them believe that the craziness had stopped. She was going to make them get complacent, and then she’d strike when they least expected it. She smiled in satisfaction as the idea bloomed inside her head. That's exactly what she was going to do.

*****

"I thought you’d be pleased." Audra watched her husband as he paced the length of their bedroom.

"This guy, or whomever the hell it was, has just suddenly stopped sending letters? I don't buy it."

"It might be that Alec and Nadine have been away for a week."

"Maybe he’s just throwing us off the scent. I’ve shown you the letters." He stopped near the bed where she was reclining.

"You have, and I must say that they’re pretty disturbing." She shuddered delicately. "I can just imagine Nadine's reaction when she first read them. That’s the product of a sick mind."

"Precisely." He dragged his fingers through his hair and frowned at the fire blazing in the hearth. He’d become accustomed to living at her Dad's place and was also finally getting along with him. They’d started off rocky but had somehow become a family. "I called and let them know the letters have stopped coming."

"You still want to be cautious, though."

"I have to be. I’m going to pretend I’ve eased up on the investigation and see what happens."

"You still fear for her safety?"

He shrugged broad shoulders. "There was a case similar to this a few years ago. A guy got it into his head that a well-known and established musician had the hots for him.

The poor woman had barely smiled at him at a concert, and he decided that was an invitation to start dating her. He’d send her letters and flowers and stuffed toys. He’d find her no matter where she was. One night, he broke into her hotel room and raped her. He almost killed her in the process." He ended grimly.

"Good Lord." Audra's hands went to her throat. "What happened?"

"Fortunately, someone heard the disturbance and called the cops. He’s serving time in prison, but the woman was never the same again."

"Let's hope this isn’t the same thing."

"Let's hope not."

Chapter 12

"You still have your suspicions."

"Yeah. I do." Both men were at the club where they were members. It’d been a month since Nadine had received any letters from her stalker, and she’d started to relax.

She was now five months pregnant and looked beautiful with her bump highlighted in whatever she had on. Production of her series had started again, and they were filming close-ups of her from the bosom up. She was relaxed and relieved that the trauma was finally over.

She was currently in Mexico shooting a scene. Alec had overridden her protests when he opted to send Maurice with her. "I’m being cautious." He told her firmly.

"You think the kook is still out there waiting?"

They were in a private room playing cards.

"Yes." Wyatt shuffled the deck and passed the cards to him. "It struck me as strange that after all of those vicious letters, he or she would just lose interest."

"In your experience, that doesn’t happen?"

Wyatt clamped the cigar between his teeth. "No. The letters were personal and bitter, like someone out to get her. They’re just laying low to let us think they’ve moved on."

"My thoughts exactly." Alec sighed as he played his hand, his mind not on the game. "I don’t want to stress her by calling her every few minutes. Besides, she’s shooting this complicated scene where the husband is stealing from her company, and she finds out. She told me not to keep badgering her."

"Your man’s there?"

"Yes. I told him not to leave her for a second." Alec sighed and reached for the scotch at his elbow. "She’s showing more now, and the reporters are back to harassing her and taking photos. It’s starting to piss me off."

"I hate the whole scene." Wyatt reached for his drink. "Just last week, Audra and I were having lunch at the diner near the precinct, and our picture ended up in the local press.

'Ace Detective Wyatt Llewellyn is taking a break from solving crime by having lunch with his beautiful wife'" The disgust was evident in his voice. "What the hell is that? Why on earth are people interested in whether we have lunch or not?"

Alec puffed out his cheeks and tried not to laugh. He was accustomed to being photographed, not that it didn’t annoy him, but he knew it was much worse for Wyatt, who’d chosen to stay out of the limelight. The irony of it was that he’d married a woman who was smack dab in the middle of it.

"Our names sell papers." Alec rubbed a hand at the back of his neck. "What are we going to do about this?"

"We can’t do anything until they strike again."

"I hate thinking of her all the way in Mexico, and I’m here. I feel helpless."

"You couldn’t have gone with her?"

Alec shook his head. "We’re in the middle of a delicate government negotiation which is supposed to be top secret, and I’m at the center of it."

Wyatt nodded and took another sip of his scotch. "The most I can do is monitor the letters she’s getting from the fans. The agent is very cooperative and lets me know whenever something looks suspicious. The thing is-" He took another puff of his cigar. "I have a gut feeling it’s a female."

"Why, because of the perfume?"

"Yeah, and the wording. I’ve been reading the letters over and over again, and the more I do, the more I’m convinced." He eyed his friend. “I’ve been meaning to ask you about Amelia."

Alec's expression sharpened. "What about her?"

"Was it a clean break?"

His mouth tightened. "You know the story. I found out she was cheating on me with a friend as well as someone else, and I left. Period."

"She just accepted it without a fight?" Wyatt looked at him curiously. "You’re a big meal ticket, my friend; you’re rolling in money, and I’m pretty sure as soon as you left, she realized her mistake."

"I was never going to take her back."

"Six months later, you moved on to someone else. It wasn’t just a quick fling for you, Nadine became a permanent fixture, and that must’ve pissed her off."

Alec studied his drink with a frown. "She did come to me after, asking for another chance."

"And?"

"She came in the guise of needing help for her Daddy's company. It turned out to be a blatant lie."

"She told you that she wanted you back?"

"Yes." He looked at Wyatt contemplatively. “You’re thinking this might be her?"

Wyatt shrugged. "Hell hath no fury and so forth."

"She’s moved on, and I haven’t heard from her since."

"Yes, I’ve seen her around with some old guy - old enough to be her father." There was disgust in his tone. "It might just be a facade."

"I don't think she has it in her to send those letters."

"Why? Because she’s a sweet society princess?" Wyatt snorted. "In my experience, given the right incentive, anyone can do anything. You did dump her for someone else."

"It was the other way around."

"I think she doesn’t see it like that." Wyatt sipped his drink slowly. "I’m going to take a long look at her."

"Let me know what you come up with. I can’t lose her, Wyatt. I’m so wrapped up in this woman it’s driving me crazy. She’s out of town for a week, and I can’t sleep in our bed. I smell her perfume everywhere I go. It's frustrating as hell."

Wyatt laughed harshly. "Welcome to the club, buddy. I swore I’d never have anything to do with a woman like Audra, and before I knew it, I was taking her back to my dump of an apartment and screwing her brains out. I thought that was it for us.

I said to myself that okay, I’ll just get her out of my system. She’d already wormed her way into my bloodstream, and I couldn’t stop thinking about her." He bit off a sigh. "I discovered in no time I couldn’t live without her. It's frightening."

"I’ve been struggling with something." Alec tossed back his drink and rose to pour some more. He was spending the night at the club because the idea of going back to the empty apartment was terrifying. "Since I proposed to Amelia and she turned me down, I’m having trouble proposing again."

"Nadine’s living with you and carrying your baby. You owe it to her to put aside your hang-ups and pop the question." Wyatt told him firmly. "She deserves nothing less."

"I know." He rubbed a hand over his face. "Her birthday is coming up in May, and I’m planning on proposing then. I have the perfect day planned. We’re going to have a private dinner at home and then slipping down on my knees to pop the question."

"She’ll say yes, man." Wyatt had read the uncertainty on his friend's face.

"Yeah, I think she will. She loves me and is different from all the others I’ve been involved with, including Amelia."

"That woman was a player," Wyatt said grimly.

"I realize that now. Shall we get some supper?"

"Yeah, I’m starving."

*****

"Want me to rub your feet?" Benny teased as she plopped herself down into the comfortable chaise. It’d been a long day, and she wasn’t feeling like herself at all.

"There could be a reporter lurking to get a pic, and there’d be hell to pay if Alec saw it.” She managed to work up a smile for him. He’d pursued her at the beginning, and at first, she’d entertained the idea of a fling but ultimately decided against it.

They worked together, and if the fling ended badly, things would get uncomfortable. Besides, she wasn’t one for casual sex. She’d never been that kind of girl, and she was proud she’d held onto her principles. In this kind of business, promiscuity was the name of the game.

"I happen to be your husband."

"My TV husband. Alec is my man and the father of my child. That’s a big deal."

He grabbed her left hand and stared at her unadorned finger. "Why hasn't he put a ring on it then?"

This was one of the times she was happy she was an actress and could control her expression. "We’re not ready yet."

"You don’t strike me as the type to look before you leap." He said curiously, light blue eyes studying her face.

"You don't know me. Now, be a good TV husband and go and get me some tea."

He grumbled something about a bossy wife and, to her relief, went to do get the tea. She felt emotional. The scene had taken a lot out of her, and she was missing Alec. She knew it was hormones, but it didn’t make her feel any better.

Her ankles were swollen, and her breasts were tingling. They had one last day of shooting, and she was praying nothing would go wrong to delay it.

She needed Alec. She needed to feel his strong arms wrapped around her, smell his special fragrance, and sit down to dinner with him. For the first time in her career, she wished the time away.

Benny came back with the tea and some saltines. "The chef thought you’d like these as well."

"Why aren't you this nice when we’re shooting?"

"My character calls for me being a son of a bitch." He grinned at her. "We’re not in front of the camera now." His eyes searched her face. "You sure you’re okay?"

"I’m just a little tired."

"You should rest up. Tomorrow is going to be busy.”

“Don’t I know it?” She waved him away. “I’ll be fine."

*****

"You can’t possibly mean to get married!" Annette stared at her daughter in disapproval.

"I thought you’d be happy, Mother. He’s rolling in money." Amelia selected a plump shrimp from the bowl and took a bite.

She hated these occasions with her mother and wished she could tell her to go screw herself. Her mother held the purse strings, and Amelia knew if she stepped out of line, it’d be taken away. She had to behave herself and toe the line.

"He’s old, and he stinks. Does he shower?"

"He’s nice and kind, and he loves me," Amelia said with a pout.

"Take him to the nursing home, then. Please don't tell me you’ve let him touch you?" The grimace on Annette's well-preserved face was plain to see.

"No. He’s slightly impotent."

Annette stared at her daughter in growing distress. "My dear, what on earth are you doing? You let that delicious Alec Witter, who’s rich and handsome, slip through your fingers, and now you’re dating a decrepit old man who’s useless in bed. Are you insane?"

"Alec doesn’t want me back!" She hissed, the tears shimmering in her eyes. "Now that bitch is pregnant as well."

Her mother stared at her before cutting into her chicken. "What do you expect? You cheated on him with two other men."

"I made a mistake, and he can’t see that. He loved me."

"Now he’s in love with someone else, and they’re having a baby. Let it go."

"I can’t." Her lips trembled as she picked up her wine glass.

"What on earth do you mean? Don’t tell me you’re going to get involved with their relationship. I’ve seen them together, and they look happy.”

“I can’t let him go." The tears blurred her vision. "He was the best thing that ever happened to me, and I have to get him back."

"Amelia." Annette's voice was strained with impatience. "That ship has sailed, and it’s time for you to move on. Now-" She added briskly.

"The first thing you need to do is to get rid of that old man. Billy Wright is available. He wouldn’t have been my first choice for you, but you messed everything up. At least he hasn’t got any children, and he’s only forty-two. He’s perfect."

*****

"I already have a ranch in Montana." Alec rolled the glass of scotch in a semi-circular movement around the edge of the table.

"Mine’s smaller compared to yours." Jim Fields leaned forward, an intense expression on his face. "I’m asking for a buyout here, Alec.

The profit margin has gone to shit. Last year we had more than a hundred cattle dying on us. The drought wiped us out. I lost several men because the work died down. There isn’t much to do there anymore. It's like we’re running a ghost town.”

“You want me to invest in a ranch that’s steadily losing money?" Alec raised a brow at him. "I’ve seen the bottom line, Jim, and the figures don’t add up."

"I’m being honest with you. I’m here with my hat in my hands and my tail between my legs. I’ve held out as much as I can, but I have to know when to admit defeat. The place needs an injection of capital to make it work; money I don’t have."

"I’m a businessman-"

"I know. I also know you’re as smart as a whip. You can take failure and turn it into gold. I have faith in you." The man had a pleading look on his face. "Just give it some thought and send someone to check it out. Better yet, check it out yourself. When was the last time you went to Montana?"

"At least six months ago. I have a manager who sends us weekly reports."

"Then let him come and see for himself. It's a large piece of land; some of it is virgin territory. There’s a lot that could be done there. I hear you’re going to be a father soon?"

A smile crossed his lips. Nadine was expected home tonight, and he couldn’t wait. "Yes."

"Congratulations. Do you know what you’re having yet?"

"No. Too soon to tell." Tossing back his drink, he leaned forward. "I’m not making any promises, but I’ll have Jed check it out and report back to me."

The man clapped his hands together in delight. "That's all I’m asking, Alec."

*****

She’d arrived home early. He was in a meeting when she called and told him she was on her way.

"I thought you weren’t getting in till tonight?"

"Change of plans. I’m just going to chill and wait for you. No hurry."

Alec hadn’t listened and rushed through the meeting to get home to see her.

By the time he got there, Mrs. Bailey had already left, which suited him fine. Bounding up the stairs, he stopped and settled himself before he pushed the doors open and strode into the bedroom, where he saw her nestled among the pillows.

She was fast asleep. Closing the doors quietly, he went over to the sofa to take off his shoes and stripped out of his clothes. Nadine didn’t move an inch, not even when he padded over to stare at her.

She had changed into an oversized t-shirt and piled her hair on top of her head. Her lashes made shadows on her cheeks, and her mouth was slightly open. Resisting the urge to touch her, he stood there for a few seconds before going into the bathroom. He’d have a quick shower and then find something to eat.

He decided to let her sleep. No doubt she needed the rest. He was disappointed she wasn’t waiting up for him, but he understood. Stepping out of the shower, he toweled himself off and went quietly into the room to find a pair of sweats and a T-shirt.

She was still sleeping. Shaking his head, he headed out of the room and down the stairs. The kitchen was pristine as usual, and a rack of lamb was keeping warm in the oven.

Taking it out, he sliced off a generous amount and scooped up a few baby potatoes to go with it. Grabbing a bottle of wine from the cooler, he poured himself a glass and took everything back to the counter with him.

He'd check on her as soon as he finished eating and find out if she needed anything. Taking out his phone, he scrolled and dialed his assistant's number.

"Are you still at the office?"

"Yes, sir. Just tying up the contract for Lassimer."

"I need you to schedule an appointment with the lawyers for first thing in the morning."

"Got it."

"I need a meeting with Lassimer. I want to be able to tie up the-" His voice tailed off as his eyes shifted to the doorway. He felt himself weaken at the sight of her. She was rubbing her hand over her face and smiling at him.

"Sir?"

"Let me get back to you." He hung up slowly and sat and watched as Nadine walked toward him.

"I fell asleep." She said sheepishly, coming between his legs. He felt his heartbeat quicken as he stared at her.

"You did?" The meal he’d been eating was all but forgotten as the love of his life stood there in front of him. "I went straight to bed as soon as I got in."

"You were on a call?"

"It wasn’t important."

"It sounded like it was." She curved her hands around his neck and, to her horror, felt the tears gushing from her eyes and rolling down her cheeks.

"Nadine?" He stared at her in alarm. "What's the matter?"

"Oh, I’m like a freaking faucet." She sniffed and wiped her hand across her cheeks. "I missed you."

"I missed you too." He tilted her chin up and studied her face. “What’s wrong?”

“I can’t bear to be away from you so long. I know it sounds pathetic-"

"I feel the same." He told her quietly. "I’ve not been able to sleep in our bed since you left."

"You haven't?"

"No."

She leaned into him. "Oh, God. What’s happening to us, Alec?"

"I think we’re finding out how much we love each other." He rubbed her back. "Are you hungry, darling?"

"Yes." She buried her face into his chest and inhaled his scent. "I couldn’t wait to get here to see you. I tried waiting up for you, but I fell asleep."

"You must’ve been exhausted."

"I was. If they’d told us we had to spend another night, I was planning on ditching."

"You never ditch." He said with a chuckle.

"I would have this time." She lifted her head to look at him. "Food first, and then I need you naked on top of me."

His heart shivered. "Sounds like a good plan. Let me fix you something to eat. Want some tea?"

She shook her head. "Just some water."

Moving her aside after kissing the tip of her nose, he went to prepare the plate for her as she sat on the stool and watched him.

"How was it?" He brought the meal over to her and sat next to her.

"The shoot went off without a hitch." She scooped the potato into her mouth and closed her eyes. "This woman knows her stuff."

"Finish eating, and let's go upstairs."

Chapter 13

"We’re having a son.” Nadine pressed a hand over the bulge of her belly possessively. They’d just finished the ultrasound, and she’d insisted on knowing the sex. "I want to start shopping, and I don’t want to buy anything pink in case it's a boy." She told him.

"We still have to see to the nursery."

"We’re having a son." He leaned his forehead against hers and took several breaths. He was going to father a son, and he was so wrung out emotionally that he didn’t know what to do. He had two surprises for her and had been busy over the last couple of weeks, so he could get everything done.

The beautiful May weather was cooperating. Trees and flowers were blossoming, and the scent of jasmine and oleander filled the parking lot of the private medical clinic where the OBGYN had her practice.

The baby was healthy and growing, and Nadine's blood pressure was under control. Her ankles were slightly swollen, but there was no worry there. She was eating her vegetables and doing the recommended exercise. The paparazzi were still hounding her, but not as before, as they’d moved on to bigger things.

The best thing of all was that the vicious letters had stopped coming.

"I guess we can start shopping now." She settled the seatbelt under her breasts as he strapped her in. "Monique was showing me some new stuff they just received in the baby department."

"Hmm." He strapped himself in and leaned over to kiss her. "Hungry?"

"Starving." She admitted with a laugh. "I feel like a pig and look like an elephant." She eased the elastic waistband of her maternity shorts away from her belly and wriggled her toes. "I want a cheeseburger."

"We could go to the Burger King drive-thru we just passed on the way here."

"Perfect." She settled back against the passenger seat and closed her eyes. He’d get her burger and then drive straight to the surprise he had in mind.

The woman serving them at the drive-thru recognized them immediately, but to her credit, she managed to be professional about it.

"I shouldn’t be saying this." She whispered, moving her headset. "I love your show so much, and my Mom and I watch it every day."

"One autograph coming up," Nadine told her with a gracious smile as she scribbled something nice on a napkin and handed it to her.

"Thank you so much."

"You’re welcome, Jodi."

"Mom is never going to believe this."

"Tell her hi for me and thank her for watching my show."

"You do that so well," Alec commented as they drove away.

"Sign an autograph?"

He shook his head. "Handle your adoring public. Most celebrities wouldn’t bother with pesky things like that."

"I never take my status for granted." She sniffed at the burger before tearing into it. "The fans are the ones who make it possible for me to have all this. I try to be nice to all of them."

"Some people would take advantage of that."

"Well, yes, I suppose you’re right. Most are just dazzled.” She laughed and shook her head. “The first time I was recognized was when I was at the airport. I was going to Miami to visit a relative.

A distant cousin of ours had been in an accident, and Mama couldn’t make it. I volunteered to go instead, and I saw this girl rushing over while I was in the line, ready to board, and she started screaming. Hell, I thought there was a terrorist, or some sort of tragedy was about to happen.

Turns out she just wanted my autograph. She was screaming and saying to the rest of the passengers that this was so and so. I wasn’t famous then because I was playing mostly bit parts, but she noticed me.”

He flashed her a smile and noticed she’d dribbled mustard on her floral shirt. Grabbing the napkin, he blotted it and handed it to her. "You’re making a mess."

"Oh." Grabbing the napkin from him, she dabbed at her mouth.

"What happened after?"

"I was surrounded by people who wanted to know how famous I was, and I was bumped up to first class. That was a bit of excitement. I was offered champagne and canapes and all sorts of fancy food. I got a taste of what a real celebrity goes through."

"Then you became one." She’d been so caught up in the burger and reminiscing about the past she hadn’t realized they weren’t heading back to the apartment until he’d turned onto the private road.

"Yes. I-" She looked out the window. "Where’re we going?"

"You'll see." He grinned at her as he made the left turn that brought them through a massive wrought iron gate. The cobbled drive was two miles long, and trees were lined on either side. The place had been recently landscaped. Flowers, with colors bursting wildly in the late afternoon sunshine, filled the air with perfume.

A huge marble statue was in the middle of it all. The majestic house was situated on a slight rise. The porch was large, with strong, sturdy pillars. Off to the east, the green-blue water of the octagonal swimming pool reflected the fading rays of the sun. There was also a white pool house across from it.

Chairs were scattered at strategic places on the lush green grass.

"Who lives here?"

"Why’re you whispering?" Coming to a stop, he came around to open her door and help her out.

"It just seems like the right thing to do." She swung her gaze to look at him. "Alec?"

"Would you like to take a walk outside first or go and tour the inside?"

"Not until you tell me what we’re doing here."

"Can't you guess?" His hands framed her face gently. "We own the place."

Her eyes went wide as she stared at him. "You bought us a house without telling me."

"It wouldn’t have been a surprise then, would it?" He took her hand and led her up the steps. The doors were polished in a dull mahogany sheen and swung open at the press of a button.

"When did you buy it?" Nadine was still in a daze as she looked around the lofty foyer.

"The sale went through when you got back from Mexico. There were some minor renovations to be done, and I wanted everything finished before I surprised you." He led the way into a large, elegant living room. The soft baby blue carpet matched the silk of the blue wallpaper and reminded her of the sky.

"It already has everything!"

"It came with the original furnishings. We can make changes if you’d like."

"How many bedrooms?"

"Eight, and downstairs, there are two staff bedrooms."

"Do you think it's big enough?" She asked him dryly.

"If there aren’t enough rooms, we could always make more." He said tongue-in-cheek, earning him a wry look. "Want to see the kitchen?"

"Why not? I assume I’m not going to be allowed in there."

It was cavernous with all the modern appliances money can buy. “Mrs. Bailey is going to have a field day.” Her eyes settled on the deep freeze tucked into one corner and the intimate dining table at the window.

“For when we’re alone and don’t feel like making an effort.” He watched as she walked over to the large bay window to look out.

“The view is stunning. I believe those are tea roses in full bloom. Mama is going to go bonkers at this.”

“Shall we go upstairs?”

Placing her hand in his, she let him lead her up the spiral staircase.

“There’s a library downstairs along with a den, laundry room, pantry, gym, and a wine cellar in the basement.” He pushed the double doors open to reveal steps leading down into a sunken sitting room with soft leather sofas and a small fireplace.

She didn’t speak until she stepped into the large blue and green bedroom. There was a window seat at the large bay window that drew her to it.

“Well?”

“I love it. Oh, look! Is that a gazebo?” She clapped her hands in delight as she gazed out at the white latticed structure with wisteria clinging to it.

He took the opportunity while her back was turned to slip the box out of his pocket and went on one knee.

“There’s something else.” He said softly.

“What else-“ Her voice trailed off as she turned and saw him kneeling there. For a few seconds, she couldn’t move and felt as if her throat had tightened.

“What’re you doing?”

“Proposing, or trying to. You’re all the way over there, though. Could you come closer, please?”

She did, taking slow, careful steps.

“You don’t have to-“

“Shut up and let me do this, please.”

She clamped her mouth shut. When he snapped the box open, she could only stare at the stunning square-cut diamond with emeralds surrounding it. “Your hand?”

She held it out, still unable to say anything. “It was a perfect fit. “Nadine Alicia Manning, would you do me the honor of being my wife?”

“What if I say no?”

“Nadine.”

Tears blurred her vision as she continued to stare at the ring, which was a perfect fit.

“What took you so long?” She asked him hoarsely. “Yes, you idiot. I’ve been waiting for you to pop the question since we banged each other senseless!”

He pouted his lips. “You wanted a proposal for a one-night stand?”

“It was the best one-night stand ever.”

“How many have you had?”

“You were the first. Shall I try and join you down there, or are you getting up?”

“I was thinking of making love to you on the floor. It’s clean.”

“I’m sure it is, but I’m not sure my back will be able to take it. Besides, I’m six and a half months pregnant, and getting down there is going to take some work. You’ll probably need a crane to get me back up as well.”

He grinned and heaved himself up.

“We could get married in June.”

“That’s two weeks away.”

“It could work.” She danced out of his arms, surprisingly agile on her feet. Alec shoved his hands into the pockets of his jeans and watched in exasperation as she took out her phone.

“We could get married here, outside the gazebo. We can just have a small intimate affair. We’ll have to keep a lid on it.” She flicked a glance at him. “You have a great PR team-“ She held up a finger as he opened his mouth.

“Leesa, could you get Kelly on the other line?” She tapped one foot as she waited. “Hey. We have a wedding to plan for in two weeks,”

She listened again and laughed. “He finally popped the question, and you’ll never guess what…. He bought us a house. What-“ Taking the phone from her, he pressed it to his ear. “She’ll get back to you, ladies. This is supposed to be a private moment.” He listened for a second and then laughed before hanging up.

“We have a wedding-“

“We have to celebrate this moment.” Tossing the phone on the table, He took her hands and drew her towards the tan sofa.

“Take a load off, and let me talk to my fiancée.” He sat next to her, turning so they were facing each other. “I wanted to propose ever since I found out you were pregnant.”

“I know you were afraid of rejection.” Her hands tightened in his. “I’m not like her.”

“I know.’ He told her quietly. “I’ve known it from the first time I met you, but I was still afraid of being rejected. I had to be certain this wasn’t going to be like before. It would’ve destroyed me if it happened again.” Picking up her left hand, he stared at the dazzling stones. “It suits you, fire and ice. I thought it would.”

“You picked it out yourself.”

He gave her a surprised look. “You won’t let me buy you anything. I guess you wanted to prove to me you weren’t after my money. I love buying you things, Nadine. I love the fact you’ve never asked me for anything.

The surprise and pleasure on your beautiful face whenever I buy you anything makes me want to do it again and again. Yes, I chose the ring myself because it’s personal to me. I was a bag of nerves wondering if you’d like it.”

“I like it a lot.” Her fingers curled around his. “I’m going to be the best wife ever.” Bringing their joined hands to her bulge, she pressed his against it, where their son was kicking.

“He’s pretty frisky, isn’t he?” Emotion thickened his voice,

“I think he’s just like his Dad.”

“Or his Mom.” He countered, gray eyes twinkling. “Want me to show you how ‘old’ I am?”

She tutted. “Sex again?”

“Always, darling. I believe we were interrupted last time.” He slid closer to her, his hand still on her belly. “What do you say we christen the bedroom?”

“Great minds think alike.” She whispered against his mouth. “Just not on the floor.” She drew back as he was about to kiss her. “Wait! Is the bed new? Who was the original owner, by the way? We should-“ The rest was swallowed by a kiss. With a moan of surrender, she wrapped her hands around his neck.

*****

“His name is Joel Bullocks. I’m sure you’ve heard about him.” They’d just finished another marathon sex session and were now walking the vast grounds. To her constant delight, she kept finding little nooks and crannies; little pockets of flowers bloomed profusely.

There was an empty stable and a babbling stream not far away. There was also a delightful cottage-like building facing the stream. There was also a greenhouse at the bottom of the garden.

“Joel Bullocks, the decrepit old movie star who’s been in countless action movies?” The excitement on her face warmed him. “He lived here?”

“Yes, but he hasn’t lived here for a long while.” He guided her to a bench with a padded seat beneath an overhanging branch. “He’s been ill for quite some time. His grandson’s a club member and wanted to know if I was interested in buying the place.”

She leaned into him and sniffed the fragrant air. “We could have a swing made.”

“We could have a tree house too.” His arm came around her to hug her close. “I had one when I was growing up.”

She turned to look at him. “You never talk about your parents.”

He shrugged. “It was a painful subject for a very long time. You know they died in a boating accident?”

She nodded. She’d read about the family some years ago and refreshed her memory when she started seeing him. He was an only child and had lost them when he was in his late twenties. The CEO position had been thrust on him, but over the years, he’d managed to take the company to another level.

“They were in love.” A smile crossed his lips. “They were besotted with each other. Mother was a ballerina for years and left a successful career when she met Dad. He went to see a performance and fell in love immediately.

He somehow got himself backstage and invited her to dinner and then breakfast.” He kissed her forehead absently. “I used to watch them and told myself I wanted what they had. I supposed I was desperate to find that kind of love; only I was looking in all of the wrong places.”

“What about now?” She whispered.

He gripped her chin with his fingers. “Now, I love you so much I don’t know if I’m coming or going.”

“I think you’ll be coming soon.” She laughed when he jumped as she cupped him. “Since it is so private, I was thinking we could fool around.”

“I’m not making love to you on a bench. In case you’ve forgotten, you’re pregnant.”

“And horny.” His eyes flared when she pulled the shirt over her head.

“Nadine-” He hissed out a breath when she unhooked the bra and slid it off her shoulders.

“Let’s go inside.”

“Too late.” Taking his hand, she placed it over her breast, and he was lost.

*****

Somehow their engagement and upcoming marriage were leaked to the press.

“’More exciting news for Alec and Nadine. Not only are they expecting a baby, but they are now engaged, and the wedding is set for the end of June!’”

Amelia was at the checkout counter at the market when the headline caught her eye. Snatching up the tabloid, she dumped the sparkling water and fat-free yogurt onto the counter.

“I no longer need these.” She told the harried clerk. “How much?” She thumped the magazine onto the counter. When the woman told her, she found some loose change and slapped it against the counter, not waiting for a receipt.

Making her way out of the revolving doors, she managed to get to her car before losing it. Banging her hands against the steering wheel, she screamed, long and loud, the rage soaring through her body like a tidal wave.

Feeling the tears course down her cheeks, she took several deep breaths before pulling out of the parking lot. She couldn’t afford to have some reporter watching her and capturing her humiliation. Making the short journey to her apartment, she rushed inside and started destroying her living room.

She heaved the delicate Ming vase she’d gotten as a gift from a lover against the wall.

Next came the glass doors that housed the crystals she’d been collecting for years. She threw them against the wall until she was spent, and the floor was littered with shards of glass.

Sliding down onto the floor, she put her head in her hands and sobbed until she was exhausted. “That bitch!” She screamed. “That horrible bitch! It’s not over.” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “I’m going to get my revenge.”

Wiping the tears from her eyes, she pulled her knees up and wrapped her arms around them. The memories came flooding back, taunting her.

Scenes flashed across her eyes as if she were watching a movie. The time he took her to the opera. That time he took her flying in his private jet. The time they left for Paris midweek and spent an amazing night and morning there.

How could she forget the lovemaking? A moan slipped from her, and she felt her nipples tighten. He’d made her scream out his name as the climax ripped through her like a sharp knife. Now he was with someone else. She was not only pregnant; he was marrying her.

Picking up the magazine, she stared at the glossy photo of them coming out of Luce’s restaurant. He was smiling at her, and they were holding hands. She was wearing a sheer summer-like dress that highlighted her bump.

The cameraman had zoomed in on the stunning diamond and emerald engagement ring. “Enjoy it, you bitch.” The pain inside her head was making her dizzy. “Enjoy it for now.”

Chapter 14

Along with the frenzied planning of the wedding, she insisted on overseeing the decorating of the nursery.

"I’m just the supervisor where both of them are concerned." She reminded Alec when he insisted that she takes it easy. "I just sit on my butt and tell people what to do. The heaviest thing I lift is my phone."

"As long as you keep it that way."

"Yes, Mother." She said dryly.

Her own mother was so excited she insisted on being part of the planning. "These people are celebrity wedding planners and don’t need any help." She told Nora with a laugh.

"I have to be part of my daughter's wedding." She said firmly. "There must be something I can do."

"You can help me choose the flowers. They’re going to be from the gardens, and you know your flowers."

She‘d consulted with Monique and her designer about the dress. "It has to be something that isn’t going to make me look like a whale."

"We’ll do our best to make you look non-pregnant." Her friend told her with a smile.

"Nothing white."

"Oh, Lord, no! Definitely not."

Nadine sat for a quick bite to eat with her mother and Deborah. She wasn’t having bridesmaids but had grown close enough to her brother's girlfriend to include her in the planning.

"You look so happy," Nora murmured as she enjoyed her lobster quiche. She had to stop herself from gawking at the luxury that her daughter was now a part of. She was also proud of her. People kept waving to her, and two women had come over to ask for autographs.

Their pictures had been snapped outside the restaurant, and no doubt would be in a magazine by tomorrow.

"I am happy." She said with a grin. "I’m marrying the man I love and having his baby. Nothing could be more perfect."

"Please don't say that." Nora felt a shiver running up and down her spine.

"Say what?"

"How perfect it all is. Whenever things are going right, something tends to go wrong."

"Mama, you and your superstitions." She waved it off with a laugh. "Nothing’s going to spoil this for me. That stalker has moved on to someone else, and the decorating of the nursery is going very well. I changed the color scheme to navy blue."

"I thought you were settled on light blue." Deborah was so happy to be included in all of it that she couldn’t help but beam. She’d told Gavin that she’d finally crossed the biggest obstacle in getting his sister to like her.

“I’m driving the team crazy." She breathed deeply as she attacked her lobster. "I found this antique crib in Romano's in Italy, and they’re having it shipped here."

"Have you and Alec settled on a name yet?" Her mother asked, taking a sip of her wine.

"We’re still deciding. We can’t seem to agree on anything." She glanced at her mother. "I know you’d want Dad’s name to be remembered-“

“I’d never subject my grandson to a name like Adolphus." She responded with a snort. "I’m not offended one bit."

"Good. Alec's Dad's name was Alexander. We might think about it for a second name." She placed a hand over her bulge, smiling when she felt the frantic movement of her son. "I think he’s going to be a soccer player. Here I go again. Excuse me; I need to use the restroom."

"It goes with the territory." Her mother waved her away.

Sliding out of the privacy booth, she made her way to the ladies’ room tucked away a few feet from where they were dining, blissfully unaware she was being watched. The shadowy figure darted behind her, tailing her all the way into the restroom. She felt a flash of fury when she heard Nadine humming.

She’d been close enough to their table to hear snatches of the conversation. The happy planning of a wedding that was to take place this Saturday and the decorating of the nursery. Photos of the mansion Alec had bought had been featured in Lifestyle magazine and was to be the setting for the wedding.

The coveted invitations had been sent out to a select few, and reporters were wondering how they could get inside. It was all making her sick. There seemed to be nothing else to talk about except the wedding and the baby.

Amelia was jarred out of her bitter reverie when she heard the bitch talking to the baby. "Now, little buddy, you’re going to give your Mama a break and stop pressing against my bladder so much. Oh, I can’t wait to see you."

Amelia gritted her teeth and had to restrain herself. She heard the toilet flush and the door to the stall open. She’d come with the intention of smashing her head in inside the ladies' room but thought better of it. Several people knew she’d come to the restaurant.

She’d follow the bitch, and if the mother and the other woman were in the car, then that's their problem.

She hadn’t been able to sleep a wink since the announcement of the wedding. To make it even worse, she’d called Alec with the pretense of offering her congratulations, and he’d politely asked her not to contact him again.

"There’s no reason we can’t be friends."

"Were you the one sending Nadine threatening letters?" He’d asked her coldly.

"I have no idea what you are talking about. How could you think that of me?"

"I wouldn’t put it past you, Amelia, and if I discover that you were behind it, there’ll be hell to pay."

She’d hung up then and slashed a very expensive painting to ribbons. She’d been having second thoughts about what she was planning to do, but no more. They both deserved the agony that was coming.

She was going to wait until after the wedding. That would put the icing on the cake. A tragic accident causing Alec to lose his wife and unborn child. With that in mind, she smiled serenely as she walked out of the restaurant.

*****

Nadine’s hands trembled slightly as she ran them over her hips and stared at her reflection in the mirror. The dress wasn’t fussy and was ice-blue. It had a Victorian look to it with a high neck and swirled all the way to her knees, effectively covering her very obvious bump.

The wedding planners had been in and out, feverishly working to get the place ready. She and Alec were staying at the apartment and would officially move in after they were back from their honeymoon, which was still a mystery to her. She’d been all over the world and just wanted to spend time with her man with no one between them.

She was getting ready at the house and had arrived at a quarter to nine this morning to meet with the stylist and makeup artist. Her mother and Deborah had arrived shortly after, and she’d left Alec at the apartment where he’d be getting ready.

“I’m counting on you not to stand me up at the altar.” He said lightly, his hands framing her face. He’d kept them up most of the night and was cursing himself for his lack of control.

“I’m counting on you to be there.” She countered. “I love you, darling, and a few hours from now, we’ll be husband and wife.”

“I’m looking forward to it.”

“You took out your weave.” Nora walked into the room and could feel the tears at the back of her eyes. “Alec isn’t going to recognize you.”

She lifted her hand to her hair in a self-conscious manner. She’d gotten so used to wearing weaves it felt strange to her she just had her own natural dark curls. The stylist had gushed over the thickness and length and had spent time shampooing and conditioning.

Now, it was tumbling around her face and down her shoulders. Her makeup was flawless, the soft nude lipstick highlighting her lips. She was wearing the diamond and emerald bracelet that was part of the set Alec had given her, as well as the drop earrings that swung each time she moved her head.

“I wanted to give you something borrowed and something blue.” Nora came further into the room to pin a delicate-looking blue brooch on the left side of her dress. “It belonged to your great-grandmother.”

Nadine touched it lightly. “I remember playing with it when I used to go into your room.”

“You’d try it on with every outfit.”

“I always wished I was old enough to wear it.” She mused.

“I know it’s not as expensive as-“

“Oh, Mama, stop!” She laughed and hugged her. “It’s perfect.”

“I just want to say how proud I am and how happy I am you’ve found your perfect man.”

“He’s far from perfect.” Nadine shook her head and willed the tears not to fall. “We often argue, and he can be arrogant, but he’s mine, and I love him more than life itself.”

“That’s all that matters.” Nora passed her hand over her daughter’s shoulders. “I had my misgivings before, but they’re gone now. That man adores the ground you walk on.”

“I adore him right back.” She took in a deep breath. “Now, let’s go and make it official.”

*****

The place was ablaze with color. The landscaper had done a wonderful job tending to the grounds and preparing for the ceremony. The gazebo had been sanded down and repainted, and the wedding planners had decorated the surface with every flower imaginable.

The result was a spectacular display of breathtaking beauty. It was a glorious day with golden sunshine in a brilliant blue sky. Chairs had been set up on the lawn, and the caterers were wearing their black and white uniforms and constantly supplying the guests with champagne and canapés.

A live band was on the makeshift stage, waiting for the arrival of the bride.

Alec looked resplendent in a dark blue suit and was waiting with his hands clasped in front of him as he awaited his bride. No one looking at him could tell the tension knotting his stomach.

Someone went to the band and whispered something in the drummer’s ear, and immediately the wedding march started. Straightening his shoulders, Alec felt his body tighten in anticipation.

She was walking with her arm tucked through her brother’s arm. He barely noticed Gavin. He only had eyes for the dazzling beauty who was smiling at him, dark brown eyes dancing, and her hair… His eyes widened as he stared at the tumble of dark curls around her shoulders.

She was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen, and very soon, they would be bound legally as well as emotionally. The thought of that overwhelmed him so much he felt the tears burning the back of his eyes.

Without realizing he’d moved, he left his position and went to meet her halfway.

“You’re very impatient,” Gavin told him dryly as he relinquished his hold on her.

“Can you blame me?” Taking her hand, he brought it to his lips. “Hi.”

“Hi.”

“I’ll just leave you two alone.”

They ignored him as he turned and walked to take his seat.

“You look exquisite.”

“You like the hair?”

“I love the hair. I love you.”

“If you two are ready to get on with the ceremony?” The minister called out and had the guests laughing.

“Shall we, darling?” Tucking her hand through the crook of his arm, he led the way forward.

*****

Amelia spent the Saturday at home with a debilitating headache. She’d declined her mother’s invitation and had pretended that she had an appointment at the new, expensive spa uptown.

“I think a mud bath is the answer to my problems.” She’d said with a bright smile.

Her mother had given her a searching look. “Are you sure you’re okay, darling? Today’s their wedding day, and it’s all over the news.”

“I’m fine, Mother. I just need to get away.”

“If you’re sure.”

“I am.”

Amelia was back in her apartment and had turned off her phone and locked her doors in case anyone wanted to come over. He was getting married today. The papers had said the ceremony was due to start at noon, which meant it was well underway now.

She looked at the ormolu clock on the center table and saw it was almost one. If the ceremony had started on time, it’d be over now, and they were on to the festivities.

She blinked back the tears as she reached for the glass of tequila. She’d switched from wine to the hard stuff a few minutes ago and didn’t care it was making her headache worse. It should’ve been her. She knew if he’d proposed to her a second time, she’d have accepted, and now she’d be wearing the ring.

The headache bloomed at her temple until she was almost blinded by it. That bitch was with the man that should be hers and wearing the ring she should be wearing.

She took another long swallow of the liquor and almost choked on it. She’d caught her reflection in the mirror, and it’d scared her so much she’d ran from the bathroom. Her eyes were red and swollen, and her cheeks were hollow and streaked with tears. Her hair, usually so well-groomed, was matted and in tangles around her face.

She hadn’t slept much last night. So-called friends had avoided calling her the past few days, and she’d seen the pitying looks directed at her. She’d stopped going to parties in case some reporter got it into his head to take a picture and write something snide about her losing out to Nadine Manning.

Downing the rest of the drink, she made a vow. She was going to get back at them, and it was going to be spectacular.

*****

“A ranch?” Nadine looked around the open land in amazement. Right after the ceremony and the cutting of the floral wedding cake, they’d been whisked off in his private jet. She’d slept most of the ride, waking up as they were landing on the private helipad.

“Kind of like a ranch.” He grinned as he took her hand and led her to the car waiting for them.

“I can see horses.” She’d changed out of her wedding dress and was wearing a chic black and red diagonal-striped dress.

“There’s cattle as well. Chickens and ducks in the pond.”

“There’s a pond?” She craned her neck and slid the glass down, even though the AC was running full blast.

“You’re letting the air out.” He chided, grinning like an idiot as he watched her hair flying all over the place. He couldn’t wait to get her inside and take off her clothes. They’d had a quickie while she was changing for their honeymoon, but it wasn’t enough.

“Is it yours?”

Picking up her hand, he kissed her hand. “Ours. I just bought it a few weeks ago and haven’t decided what to do with it yet.”

They were whizzing past acres of land with cattle grazing and horses in a paddock. “Here we are, darling.”

The farmhouse was small by his usual standards but was a weathered pink stucco with a brown thicket fence surrounding it. There wasn’t a gate, and the flowers made a delightful backdrop to the towering trees.

“Who lives here?”

“Just us. We’ll be fending for ourselves for the week.” Braking to a stop at the front porch, he came around to help her out and kept her hand in his. A cool breeze was blowing and carrying the scent of pine and flowers blooming. “There’s a caretaker and his wife who lives on the property. If we need them, all we have to do is call.”

“Will we need them?”

He grinned at her, tucking a fat curl behind her ear. “Mrs. Gray said she left enough food to feed a small army. How about a walk?”

“I want to see the pond.”

“Of course you do.” He murmured in an indulgent tone. She was his wife. They’d repeated their vows a few short hours ago, and she was now Mrs. Alec Sebastian Ritter. They’d signed papers that made them legal and had bound them together. She was his family, she and the baby she was carrying.

“It’s so peaceful and quiet.” As soon as she said the word, they heard the mooing combined with the neighing of the horses in the paddock.

“I spoke too soon.” She smiled at him. He was holding her hand, and they were walking through lush grass on farmland complete with farm animals. “Oh, look!” She pointed to the chicken coop, where it seemed like dozens of birds were squawking and pecking at the ground.

“Do we get to feed them and collect eggs?”

He loved her unabashed pleasure, and the look on her face was priceless. He’d brought a small hand-held camera with him, and he was going to capture everything. He grinned as he wondered what her fans would think of her now.

“I’m sure Mrs. Gray and her husband have that covered. It’s usually done at dawn.” He allowed her to drag him toward where the birds were causing quite a ruckus at the invasion of their space.

“They look so cute.”

“Will you think that when they’re swimming in gravy on your plate?” His grin widened at her revolted expression. “Darling, you don’t think they just stay that way, do you?”

“I thought they were just here to lay eggs.” Her forlorn expression cracked him up, and he took several pictures. Taking pity, he led her away to a more pleasant scene. The pond had lily pads floating in the clear water and several ducks passing by.

The trickle of the water was soothing to hear, and as he came behind her, he wrapped his hands around her thickened waist; she leaned back against him and sighed.

“This is our honeymoon.” She whispered.

“I’m going to take advantage of that in a few minutes.” He propped his chin on top of her head and felt as if they were the only two people in the world.

They’d left their hectic lifestyle behind and were almost completely alone. He’d given instructions to the caretaker not to disturb them. He wanted to savor this time with her and wanted no interruptions.

With that in mind, he’d told his assistant to leave everything until he got back. He could afford to take a week off. After all, he was the boss, and nothing was more important than this woman in his arms and the baby she was carrying.

“We could grab a blanket and make love right here, with the ducks for company.” She mused.

“What about all the other farm animals looking on?” He snorted dryly. “Not to mention the possibility of the caretaker and his wife peeping through their window.”

“You’re a prude.” She told him laughingly, turning to face him.

“I’m proud of it.” Her framed her face with his hands. “When I make love to you, I want it to be just us. The things I tend to do to you are not for public viewing.”

“You’re right. Especially when you-“ Going on her toes, she whispered something in his ear that sent his blood pressure soaring. Seizing her lips, he kissed her, leaving her weak at the knees.

“I need you now.” He told her hoarsely.

Chapter 15

He went for a ride and left her sleeping soundly. Last night had been intense - too intense, completely over the line, if there’d ever been a line in the first place. He’d climaxed on top of her, taken her from behind, fed at her flesh like a starving man, and cried out his love for her.

He'd been needy, the strength ebbing and flowing into her. Maybe it was the fact she was now his wife, but he’d been delirious with desire.

So, this morning, unable to sleep, he’d left her curled in a ball and was now out riding. He hadn’t expected to see the caretaker, but he’d been mending the fence surrounding the paddock and had offered to saddle the horse, but Alec had declined. He wanted to be alone and brush away the cobwebs from his mind and get a sense of perspective.

The early morning breeze stirred his hair and rippled the light jacket he’d donned for the ride. The dew had settled over the plants, and there was a pleasant aroma stirring his nostrils. He gave the animal a pat and loosened his grip on the reins.

He brought the horse to a stop beneath a redwood tree with the branches spilling almost to the ground. Vaulting from the saddle lithely, he looped the reins over a branch and strode over to stand at the edge of a stream.

He shoved his hands into his pockets and rocked back on his heels, a brooding expression on his face. He’d been rough with her and was pretty sure he’d left marks all over her. What he felt for her overwhelmed him, and he was frightened by the intensity of it.

He'd never get used to it. A clamor of emotions raced through his body at the mere thought of her. To think he’d almost settled for something as lukewarm as what he’d felt for Amelia. He would’ve been miserable in a few months; he realized that now. Nadine completed him; there was no other word for it.

It wasn’t just the sex, even though that was out of this world. It was the entire package. Her honesty, lack of coyness, and her wit, and the fact that she loved him completely. He knew it without a doubt. She wasn’t into him for what he could do for her, and that made him want to lay the world at her feet.

He smiled as he thought about it. If she asked him for the moon, he’d find a way to get it for her. She never asked nor questioned the fact it was standard for anyone marrying him to sign a prenup. He’d protested about it, but she’d been practicing.

“I have no intention of letting you go, but it’s a legal requirement, and the lawyers are just doing their job. I don’t want or need your money."

"What's mine is yours." He’d told her stubbornly.

“I know that, darling. Signing it doesn’t make a difference to me." So, she’d signed.

The horse neighed softly, and somewhere a squirrel or two were scrambling up the tree. The quiet was astounding to someone so accustomed to the noise of the big city. It was time to get back to his wife.

*****

“Darling, what on earth are you doing?" He’d returned from his ride and found her still sleeping. Slipping off his clothes, he slid in next to her and wrapped his arms around her waist. Then he fell asleep as soon as his head hit the pillow.

He’d woken up a few minutes ago to find the place next to him empty and had quickly showered and come downstairs to find her in the kitchen.

"I’m making breakfast." She smiled at him, and he wanted to kiss her. She’d showered and was wearing a red and white summer dress with thin straps. Her hair was braided at the side, ending in a plait on her left breast. "I figured this is the only time I’m ever going to be allowed to cook for my husband."

"I don't want you cooking for your husband." It thrilled him to hear her say it. "Mrs. Grey left food already prepared. The only thing we have to do is pop them into the warmer." He came to stand behind her, hands rubbing her bulge.

"I went out to get eggs. It was quite interesting. Mr. Grey, his first name’s Arnold." She wrinkled her nose at him as she continued to whisk the eggs. "I suppose it suits him. Anyway, he was already collecting them and showed me how to do it. I had quite the education. There’s coffee brewing."

"I could smell it from upstairs." He nuzzled her neck and breathed deeply. "I don't want you slaving in the kitchen. We’re on our honeymoon."

"I want to do this. Let me do it, darling." Putting away the bowl, she turned to face him. "You went riding."

"How did you know?"

"Mr. Grey told me how much he admired your gait on the horse." She grinned at him. "He was pretty surprised a city boy could ride so well. So am I. Where did you learn?"

"I have a ranch in Texas that’s been in the family for decades." He touched her cheek gently. "I used to go there when I was a child. At one point, I told my parents I wanted to be a rancher."

"What changed your mind?"

"The ungodly hours and the hectic workload." He kissed her slowly, spiking her blood.

"Hi."

"Hi." She whispered shakily. "Let me finish breakfast. I thought we could have it out by the stream. A kind of picnic. It's a lovely day. There’re blankets in the linen closet and a picnic basket in the cupboard."

"Sounds like a plan. What can I help with?"

"Grab some fruit."

Kissing her again, he went to do as he was told.

*****

“I could live here.” She was propped up against the cushions he’d brought out with the blankets. Her face was turned up towards the sun. They were shielded from view, and the overflowing oleander bush gave them privacy.

“You’re a certified city girl.” He popped a plump green grape into her mouth as she was about to comment.

She chewed and swallowed before responding. “I could get used to this. Waking up at dawn and gathering eggs and picking flowers for the table.”

He snorted.

“You don’t believe me.”

“No.” Reaching over, he pulled her close so that her head, along with the pillows, were resting on his lap.

“Why not?”

He got busy popping the buttons on her blouse. “You’d miss the bright lights and the entertainment that comes with it.” He had loosened the buttons and unhooked her bra.

“I thought you preferred privacy.”

“This is private enough, and being out here with you is making me horny.”

“Aren’t you always?”

“I suppose so.” He shifted his weight and aligned his body next to hers. “Especially when it comes to you.” Bending his head, he kissed her throat and teased her slowly until his tongue was tasting her nipple. Her fingers dug into his thick hair.

“Alec….”

“My love.” He mumbled before tugging the tight bud into his mouth. He was trying to rein in his passion and desire.

“We were talking about- Oh!” She clamped down on her bottom lip to stop herself from screaming. His hand nudged her thighs open to palm her pussy. Sliding the panties aside, he slid a finger into her and felt the tremors travel through his body at how moist and ready she was.

The desire was overpowering, but he was determined to take his time. Bringing her up and over, he felt when she clamped her thighs tight around his hand as the climax washed through her.

She was sobbing, fingers digging into his hair. He was relentless with her, tugging on her nipple with a hunger that was almost terrifying. His cock was throbbing, and he realized he couldn’t wait any longer.

Lifting his head, he stared at the woman who'd captured his heart and soul. He could scarcely comprehend what was happening to him. “I love you.” He told her thickly as he slowly withdrew his hand and fumbled to ease down the elastic waistband of his sweats. He was aching with lust.

“Turn onto your side.” He told her harshly. “I want you from behind.” As soon as she did, he sank into her and had to stay still as an overwhelming sensation washed over him in waves. Bending his head, he nibbled at her neck. Her body jerked, and she grasped the hand he had around her swollen belly.

He felt his son move, and something buzzed inside him. He moved then, thrusting into her, his mouth suckling her neck.

She matched his movement until they were blinded by passion.

“You’re my life.” He told her thickly, hand moving over her bulge. “My everything.”

Turning her head, she sought his lips with hers and came again. He swallowed her cries and felt his body shake as he ejaculated inside her.

They didn’t move for ten minutes until they were sure the storm had passed. He was still deep inside her. The sun was dappling their skin, and the breeze was cooling. The scent of flowers was all around them, and in the faint distance, they could hear the chickens clucking.

It was a perfect setting for them, and Nadine felt her eyes slowly closing.

“Falling asleep on me?” He whispered against her neck.

“Hmm. I can’t move.”

“We don’t have to.”

“We should keep it, darling. The farm. We could come here every now and again.”

“Then we’ll keep it.”

“It’ll be our special place.” She whispered and snuggled against him. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

*****

Their son, Alexander Gavin, was born on a particularly hot day in August. He weighed seven pounds, and his proud Daddy would tell anyone who’d listen he was the image of his beautiful wife.

“I think he looks like you.” She was allowed to leave the hospital after a day because everything checked out. Now, they were at the house, which had been redecorated since they’d moved there.

The nursery was done up in a warm blue with furnishings that had been bought from all over the world. Her mother and brother had come for a visit and couldn’t get enough of the baby.

“Maybe around the chin.” Alec came and sat on the edge of the bed. He’d taken time off work to be with her. The labor, as well as the rest of the pregnancy, had been surprisingly mild. This made Nadine want to start trying for baby number two as soon as possible. The papers followed the delivery and announced the birth.

He trailed a finger down her cheek. “You did great.”

“I was a pro.”

“You were.” He kissed her on the lips, looking up as Nora came back into the room, cradling her grandson. “Gavin is getting jealous.”

“She’s right.” Her brother came into the room and went to the opposite side of the bed. “How does it feel to be a mother?”

“Wonderful.” She placed a hand on his face. “Now it’s your turn.”

“Deborah finally said yes.” He grinned at her.

“Honey, that’s wonderful.”

“A small ceremony- “

“We’ll have it here. When?”

“We were thinking the end of the month.” He looked over at the man reclining next to her. “We don’t want to impose, and you just had a baby-“

“Nonsense. We don’t mind. Do we, darling?” She turned to look at her husband.

“As long as you’re not in charge of the planning.” He kissed her on the forehead. “We’ll leave you to get some rest. It’s been an eventful two days for you.”

“I’m not tired.” She protested.

“Your husband’s right, Sis.” He kissed her on the forehead. “Mama and I will go into the nursery and put this little one to sleep. You need your rest.”

Before she could say anything else, they left the room.

“Are you leaving too?” She pouted at her husband.

“I am staying to make sure you get some rest.” He turned the monitor to face them as he settled in next to her. “Have I told you that I’m head over heels in love with you?”

She pretended to consider. “Not for two hours.”

“Let me rectify that.” He clasped her face between his hands, expression tender. “I’m helplessly and ridiculously in love with you, darling. Thank you for my son.”

Her eyes shimmered with tears as she reached up to wrap her arms around his neck. “Thank you for a home and my family. Nothing, and I mean nothing, could come close to what I feel for you and my son.” She whispered against his mouth.

*****

“I’m fine.” She insisted. “Me and the little cutie are going for a drive to celebrate his two-month anniversary. Darling, I swear he rolled over by himself right after you left this morning.”

He chuckled, waving away his assistant. “I hope you took some pictures.”

“You know I did.”

“Take the driver.”

“No. Alec, we’re fine. It’s a beautiful day, and we’re just going to drive to the park and meet with my agent. I’ve been putting her off for over a week. I owe her the courtesy of a meeting. I’m armed with A.G.’s bag with all his goodies, and that stuffed bear he loves so much. I have enough of his formula to feed ten babies. We’ll be okay.”

“Call me every step of the way.”

“You’re like a mother hen.”

“I won’t apologize for being protective.” He told her firmly. “Be careful. You happen to be a celebrity.”

“I’m trying to forget that for a while. I just want to be a normal parent taking her son out for a walk.”

“I have to take a call. Please call and let me know you’re okay.”

“I will. I love you.”

“Kiss our son. I’ll see you later.”

He hung up from her and tried to quiet the premonition that was churning inside his gut. It wasn’t like she hadn’t been out since having the baby.

They’d gone out as a family several times, and she’d been to lunch with Audra and her son a week ago. He still couldn’t shake the feeling of impending doom. Taking a deep breath, he reached for the phone.

*****

“Okay, little dude.” Turning around, she stared at her son to make sure he was all locked in. Large golden-brown eyes stared back at her, and Nadine felt her heart melting inside her chest.

He had a head of dark brown curls; he was growing to look more like his dad every day. He had his stuffed bear clutched into his small fist and was sucking furiously at the pacifier as he drifted off to sleep.

“We’ve called Daddy to let him know we’re on our way home, and you’re fed and diapered. Let’s do this.”

Unaware she’d been followed ever since she left the house, she turned left and headed on into traffic. She’d left the major roads and had taken the private road leading to the house when it happened.

The car rammed into her from behind just as she glanced in the rearview mirror to check on her son. The scream was cut off as the airbag deployed and hit her full in the face. Before she could react, she was slammed from behind again. Her head hit the steering wheel hard enough for her to lose consciousness.

Trying to fight the wave of pain and nausea, she struggled to loosen her seatbelt to get to her son.

“My baby!” She whispered before the darkness washed over her.

Amelia struggled out of the seatbelt and stumbled from the car. Running towards the mangled vehicle, she dragged the door open and stood there staring at the baby. By some miracle, he was alive and unhurt. With a frenzied snarl, she unhooked the baby seat, and, taking one bitter look at her nemesis, she fled with the baby.

*****

“Wyatt. Have you found her?” Alec pushed back his chair, his heart stalling with the icy cold fingers of fear clutching at him. When she hadn’t called him as she promised, he'd started calling her, but her phone went straight to voicemail. He’d called the house, but the housekeeper hadn’t seen her and said “She hasn’t returned, Sir.”

“Yes.” Wyatt felt the sense of déjà vu flooding him. “She was in a car crash.” He watched as the man lowered himself into his chair, his face ashen.

“She was speeding? Someone ran the light-“

“It wasn’t an accident.” Wyatt hated like hell that he had to do this. “Someone slammed into the back of her car.”

“Deliberately?”

“Yes.” He took a deep breath, his expression harsh. “She’s on her way to the hospital now.”

“My son?” His voice was thin.

“He was kidnapped.”

“Someone took my son.” He felt the numbness spreading all over his body, and he feared he was going to be sick.

“We’re searching the perimeters.”

“I have to go to Nadine. I have to go to my wife.” He sat there and felt as if he was nailed to his chair. “Find my son.” His gray eyes were flat and filled with tears. “Find Alex.”

“I will. We have men out there now searching everywhere. “

He got up slowly and had to grip the edges of his desk as he swayed. “I need my driver.” His assistant came running in.

“Get Marvin… What is it?”

“The housekeeper from your home.” He pressed his lips together. “Someone’s-“ He pointed to the phone. Alec grabbed at the receiver.

“Put it on speaker,” Wyatt ordered.

With an unsteady finger, he depressed the button. “Mrs. Bailey?”

“I’m afraid Mrs. Bailey is out cold.” Amelia’s voice came over in a sing-song tone. “I’m going to need you to come over, darling. I have our baby with us. That bitch is out of our life. Also, if you’re thinking of involving the police, I’d advise against it. I have a gun, and as you well know, I’m quite capable of using it.”

“What do you want?” Alec felt his head spinning.

“You, darling. Always you, and now we have the chance to be with each other. Please come home.”

“I need to know Alex is okay.” He gazed at Wyatt, who was in one corner of the room talking on his phone quietly.

“He can’t talk, darling, but let me put you on video. He’s such a sweet child, and the accident didn’t do him any harm.” She switched to video, and he felt his heart contract as he stared at the baby secured in his car seat.

“If you touch one hair on his head-“ His voice trailed off, and he felt a spike of fear. She was pointing the gun at his head.

“Don’t hurt him. I’ll do anything you say.” He whispered hoarsely.

“Now we understand each other. Hurry up and remember what I said. No police.” She hung up.

“We have the place surrounded, and I’m coming with you,” Wyatt told him grimly.

“She has a gun.”

“We know what we’re doing, Alec. Let us do our job.”

Chapter 16

The journey to the home he’d made for his wife and baby felt like thousands of miles instead of the few miles it actually was. He was driving himself on the advice of Wyatt.

"In case she’s watching."

Alec had no idea how he managed to negotiate the afternoon traffic. Several times he almost ran a red light. He couldn’t concentrate. He’d made a call to the hospital and heard that his wife was in surgery. A hairline fracture, bruised ribs, and internal bleeding. He couldn’t be there with her because he had to do this.

It was all his fault. He’d gotten involved with a maniac. He’d brought this into their lives, and if anything happened, he firmed his lips and pushed the horrifying thought away. Wyatt had told him that he had to be calm.

"She’s obviously unhinged, and you don’t want to set her off. Try and keep her happy while I get my men set up around the perimeter. Do your best to get Alex away from her. Make it personal."

"It is personal."

"Good. Call him by name as much as possible. Make her believe that you’re sorry for leaving her."

"I’ll do my best. Everything is riding on me doing my best."

He didn’t see anyone when he turned into the private driveway that led to his home, but he knew they were somewhere around. He parked at the entrance to the cobbled driveway. A red coupe was also parked at the edge of the garden. A tow truck had already removed the wreckage, and he knew very soon the press would hear about it.

"We want it contained as long as possible as soon as the press hears about it, all bets are off. They have a way of mucking up situations and making things worse." Wyatt said grimly.

He’d set up Alec with a listening device in his ear. "I’ll coach you on what to say. You don’t need to respond."

"Darling, that was quick."

She was in the living room, with Mrs. Bailey on the floor by the mantle, with a head wound oozing with blood.

"I really love your home- no-" She wagged the gun at him. "That's close enough. We don't want you playing hero and thinking you can charge over and rescue your son." She pointed the gun at him, and the rage inside Alec was almost too much to contain.

"What do you want, Amelia?"

"Like I told you before. You."

"I’m here. This is between us. Why don't you leave Alex out of it?"

"Alec and Alex. How cute." She swung her eyes to him, glittering with tears. "This should have been our baby. Yours and mine."

"You were the one-"

"Yes!" She shouted, the sound causing Alex to start crying. "Hush, baby Alex." She crooned, jamming the pacifier back into his mouth. "Don't worry. I fed him before you got here and changed his diaper." She smiled at him, and he could see the madness in her eyes. She was unhinged and unstable.

“Tell her how grateful you are that she’s taking care of Alex," Wyatt whispered in his ear.

"Thank you for your thoughtfulness." He forced himself to say quietly.

“I’d make a good mother." She turned back to face him. "I love you, Alec. I made a mistake, and I wanted a second chance, and you wouldn’t give it to me."

"I was hurt." He forced himself to look at her. "You broke my heart."

She nodded. "You’re right. It was my fault, and when I wanted to make up for it, you dismissed me. Now you’ve hooked up with that bitch, and you didn’t even invite me to the wedding."

"Would you have come?"

"No." She laughed. "I got drunk that Saturday. I saw it all over the news. 'Television star Nadine Manning tying the knot with multi-billionaire Alec Ritter.’ People were staring at me, giving me pitying looks, and whispering behind their hands. You did that!" She hissed.

"I apologize for any hurt I caused you. Why don't you put Alec in his cot?" He gestured to by the hearth. There was one like it in every room on Nadine's insistence. She’d told the decorators that she didn’t plan on hauling a cot from room to room. "Let him try and sleep."

"He’s an adorable baby. I’ve been following that bitch since she started going out and about after having the baby. Yes, I was the one sending the letters. I had to stop and lull you into a false sense of security, and it worked."

"Very clever." He wanted to put his hand around her throat and squeeze the life out of her. "Just put him down and let him sleep, Amelia. Please."

"No."

"He’s just a baby. Let's talk. We never did that. I never gave you a chance to tell me how you really feel."

"You’re trying to catch me off guard."

"No. I’m genuinely asking."

"Okay, fine." He almost went weak with relief when she picked his son up and placed him into the cot. "He really is a beautiful baby." She had her back turned and the gun hanging down. Without thinking about it, Alec charged her, knocking her to the floor.

She screamed and wrestled with him, but his body was wedged tight against her, and she couldn’t use her hands. He was in the middle of grabbing the gun when Wyatt stormed in, followed by dozens of officers.

"It's over." He whispered in her ear. "Be grateful they arrived in the nick of time. You’ve no idea how much I want to kill you right now. Don’t ever try and hurt my family."

He shoved the gun toward Wyatt before getting off her. "Get her out of my sight."

"Arrest her." Wyatt snapped. The second uniformed officer had hold of her, and he turned to Alec. "Nadine’s out of surgery and is awake. She’s asking for you. The media have found out and know everything."

"I’ll call the PR team to deal with it." Moving forward, he went to pick up his son, who was now fast asleep. Drawing in a breath, he held him close and felt the tears trickling down his cheeks. "Oh God, Wyatt!"

"I know." Wyatt clapped him on the shoulder. "Take a minute and go and see your wife. We called the EMTs. Here they are now."

*****

He had to steady himself before he made the journey to the hospital. He placed a call to his assistant, who was now in the process of liaising with the PR team. The private road leading to his home had been cordoned off by police who were busy trying to keep the press back. He didn’t care about any of it.

He arrived in the parking lot, where there was more press waiting around like vultures.

He wasn’t going to subject his son to the cameras. Placing a call to Wyatt, he waited until there was a police presence before he left the car, carrying his son in the car seat.

He grabbed Alex’s diaper bag and slung it over his shoulder. He lifted up the car seat and cooed to his son. “You’re a brave boy, aren’t you? We’re going to see Mommy now-“ He closed his eyes and tried to steady himself again. He was having a difficult time coming to terms with his part in all of this. “Let’s go, buddy.”

He was flanked by police as he strode toward the entrance of the hospital. The doctors rushed forward and met him at the front desk.

“How is she?” He clipped.

“She’s responding well to treatment. I’m Dr. Basil Levy, and this is Dr. Alice Boothe. I’m the chief surgeon. As I said, she’s responding to treatment. We managed to stop the internal bleeding, and there was no permanent damage.

She has a few bruised ribs and suffered a concussion. Right this way.” He pushed the doors open to the private room. She was propped up against some pillows with a bandage around her head.

The pain shot through him and felt like a dozen hot irons poking at him. He forced himself to go further into the room, his eyes searching for some form of reproach or accusation. All he saw was relief as tears sprang to her eyes.

“Could you leave us alone?” Alec asked the doctors and the nurses gathered around her bed.

“Of course.” Dr. Levy gestured to the others to follow him.

Nadine watched as he carefully and deliberately put the car seat on a chair before unbuckling the safety belt and taking him out. He rubbed his hand over the baby’s back as he came forward and placed him into her arms. “He’s been fed.” He said quietly.

“Not a mark on him.” Nadine feasted her eyes on her son, who was staring up at her. “Hey there, sweetheart. You’re okay, you’re okay.” She felt the tears running down her cheeks. “She took him.”

“Yes.” He clipped, standing at the side of the bed. He explained what had happened, and she listened in silence.

“That bitch took my baby and held a gun to his head?”

“Yes.” He had to get out of here. He couldn’t stand to be in the same room as them. He’d caused all of this. If it hadn’t been for him, none of this would have happened. “I’ll get the doctors-“

“Alec-“

“I can’t do this right now. Your mother and brother are in the waiting room. I’ll go and tell them they can visit for a few minutes. Have your mother take Alex home with her. The threat has been eliminated, but I’ll have Marvin be there to make sure.”

“Where are you going?”

“I have work, and I have to make a statement to the police.” His gray eyes scanned her face, and he almost wavered before he said. “I have to go.”

“Alec- “She watched in disbelief as her husband almost ran from the room. Cradling her son, she let the tears flow freely.

*****

He stared out the window of his apartment with a drink in his hand. His fingers were clenched so tight this his knuckles were white. His eyes were sunken inside their sockets.

He’d stopped at the office to collect some documents and had called to be updated on his wife’s condition. His son was safely tucked away at his grandmother’s home, and Marvin was there with them.

He listened with half an ear as Wyatt filled him in.

“She’s going to be given a psychiatric evaluation.” He’d been there for the past half hour and was concerned that his friend was still standing in the same position and barely acknowledging him.

“She confessed to everything. It’s over.”

“Is it?” The tone was neutral, and he still had his back turned.

“I could use one of those.”

“Please. How ungracious of me.” He flicked a hand at the liquor cabinet.

Wyatt poured the scotch and took it with him to the window where Alec seemed to have such a fascination. “Audra and some of the other wives are visiting Nadine.”

“Good.”

“You should be with her.”

“I had some things to take care of.”

Wyatt bit off a sigh and took a sip of the drink. “You can’t blame yourself. Amelia Wainwright was a powder keg waiting to explode.”

“Who can I blame then?” The tone was one of polite courtesy, and Wyatt wanted to slap him upside the head. “I brought her into our lives, and for that, I almost lost my wife and son.”

He slammed his hand on the windowsill. “I wanted to kill her.” He continued softly. “I had the gun in my hand, and I thought about pulling the trigger. I came dangerously close to doing it. She almost killed the love of my life.”

The anguish was so heartfelt it left Wyatt staggered. “I almost lost her, and for that, I want to put my hands around her throat and squeeze until there’s nothing left.” Wyatt jumped reflexively when he hurled the glass into the fireplace and sent glass shards flying.

Wyatt watched helplessly as Alec fell to the floor, bringing his knees up and burying his head between his thighs. His shaking shoulders indicated he was crying. Finishing his drink, Wyatt hunkered down and put a hand on Alec’s shoulder, and waited in silence.

Alec finally lifted his head, a bleak and desolate expression on his face. “I can’t face her. If I could find a way to live without them, I’d get a divorce. I can’t live with what almost happened, what I inadvertently caused.”

“Alec- “

“I don’t need you to rationalize anything.” His voice lashed out. “It’s on me, all of it. I saw her with a gun to my son’s head, and I can never forget that..”

“You’re not to blame.” Wyatt was determined to get through to him. “Get counseling if that helps, but you’re going to have to learn to put it aside. Nadine needs you. I went to visit her to give her an update, and she was asking for you. The only person she wants to see is you.”

“I need time.”

Wyatt bit off a sigh. “You’re one stubborn SOB. I’m not leaving you alone tonight.”

Alec sent him an amused look. “Babysitting isn’t your style. What? Don’t you have crime to fight?”

“I can take a break. What do you say we hit up that game room of yours?”

“I know what you’re doing.”

“What’s that?”

“Trying to take my mind off things.”

“I knew you were smart. Now, let’s go so I can kick your ass at pool.”

Alec snorted as he levered himself up. “In your dreams.”

*****

“Mama, can you keep Alex for another night?”

“Of course, honey. I could keep him for months. He’s so adorable and sleeps through the night.”

“We’ll see how long that lasts. I need time with my husband.”

“Hasn’t he been to see you?”

“He called to talk to the doctors to check on me, and when we do speak to each other, he’s nothing but polite. It makes me want to scream. I know him, Mama; he’s blaming himself for what happened.”

“That’s nonsense. Are you being released?”

“I’m discharging myself and am demanding he meets me at the house. We’re going to have this out once and for all. Wyatt said he stayed at the apartment two nights in a row. He hasn’t been back at the house. The doctors say I’m fine and I’m not staying in this place another day. I need to be with my husband.”

“Don’t worry about my darling grandson, honey. Take all the time you need.”

*****

He fussed around the place, making sure everything was as it should be. Mrs. Bailey had been released from the hospital and had insisted she was well enough to resume her duties. She’d brushed off Alec’s apologies and his offer for compensation.

“I’m still alive, and so’s that beautiful baby, Lord be praised.”

The place was neat and tidy. Mrs. Bailey had done her job and prepared a meal to welcome Nadine home. He’d been against her discharging herself and had insisted on sending Marvin to get her. He couldn’t face her yet, and he felt like a coward.

He needed time to settle. The past two nights had been hell for him, and he’d been unable to concentrate on work. It was Friday afternoon, and the fall weather was unseasonably warm.

Taking a deep breath, he turned from studying the rippling water of the pool as he heard the car turning into the driveway.

Over the past two days, he had an electronic gate installed which came with a fancy new alarm system. There was already an alarm system in the house, but that had been disabled when Nadine had taken their son out for the day.

He tensed up when the vehicle slid to a stop, and Marvin stepped out. He stood where he was and watched as the man came around to open the passenger door.

The bandage had been removed, and her dark curls were piled on top of her head. She had on a chic blue and white blouse over a pair of painted-on jeans that he’d sent for her to put on.

“Thanks, Marvin. We won’t need you for the rest of the day.”

“Or the rest of the weekend.” She smiled up at Marvin. “Thanks.”

They waited until he’d left before speaking. “How are you?” He didn’t touch her, fearing he’d either break her into pieces or completely break down himself.

“I’m fine.” She stood where she was, her eyes drinking in the sight of him. He looked gaunt, as if he hadn’t slept since the incident or eaten anything.

“The doctors –“

“Stop it. I need you. Dammit. It’s not your fault-“

“Oh, but it is.” He looked so miserable she wanted to run and put her arms around him. “I did this.” His voice turned hoarse. “You almost lost your life because of me.“ His knees buckled, and he had to sit down. His body was trembling, and he shook his head when she came and sat next to him. “It’s on me. I did-“

“Stop, please.” She turned to face him, taking his hands. “In trying to punish yourself, you’re punishing me. I’d be stupid to blame you. It’s all her fault. You did nothing wrong, and I need you to stop blaming yourself.”

She lifted his hand and kissed it. “I need you, darling. I was in that hospital bed for two days, and I yearned for you. I need you to stop blaming yourself. If you need counseling to get you through, I’m there, but I need my husband.”

“You should blame me.” He whispered raggedly, the tremors increasing. “You should want me far away from you.”

“How would I survive?” She asked him gently. “I need you with me.”

“No. I-“

“Are you going to deny a woman who still isn’t well?” She asked him reproachfully.

He smiled reluctantly. Rising, he drew her up and allowed her to lead him along the path into the elegant foyer. He locked the doors and set the alarm before following her upstairs.

“Stay here.” She ordered, and he did so without a word. She undressed him with such gentleness that he felt the tears prickling the back of his eyes.

“You’re supposed to be the patient.” His voice thickened with emotion.

“Do you mind? I’d like to care for my husband.”

He smiled fleetingly, helping her as she took off his shirt and jacket and draped them over a chair. He kicked off his boots and took in a breath when she unhooked his belt and pulled his zipper down. Dragging them over his hips, she pushed him back onto the bed and took them off.

“Get under the covers.”

He did and watched as she undressed. His hands clenched into fists when he saw the bruising along her ribs.

“Don’t.” She interpreted the look on his face as she slid in next to him.

“She hurt you.” He turned to her, gray eyes blazing. “I'll never forget that.”

“I’ll never forget it either.” She took his face between her hands. “I refuse to give her one more minute of our precious time. I’m here, our son is alive and well, and for that, I want to grasp life with both hands. I love you, darling, and we’re going to get through this. I’m here; I’ll always be here, I promise you.”

“I almost lost you.” He buried his face into her neck, and she felt the moisture of tears. “It’s driving me crazy.”

She rubbed her hands over his shoulders and felt the muscles rippling. “Let me take away the pain. Let me love you, darling.”

“We can’t. Your ribs-“

“We have to,” She touched her lips to his feverishly, and he was unable to resist her. With a tortured groan, he reached for her.

*****

“We should go and pick up our son.” His arms were wrapped tightly around her, a sated look on his face.

“No.” She kissed his damp chest. “We need this time together. I was thinking we should go back to the farm for a week or two.”

Tilting her chin up, he let his gaze wash over her tenderly. “How about two weeks?”

“Can you spare the time?”

“I’ll make the time. Just the three of us.”

“It sounds wonderful. We get to introduce Alex to rural farm life.”

“We also get the therapy we need.”

“There’s that as well.” He tucked a curl behind her ear. “Thank you.”

“For?”

“For saving me and loving me and for making me see a new perspective.”

“That’s what a loving wife is supposed to do.” Her expression sobered. “I love you so much I can’t breathe.”

He kissed her roughly. “How about a swim?”

“It’s cold!” She protested as he let go of her and swung his legs off the bed.

“It’s only marginally cool, and I didn’t have you down as a coward.” He grinned at her, and she felt relief going through her at the stress-free look on his face. She would’ve agreed to anything at that moment.

“You’re going to take that back.” She got out of bed and stood still while he helped her with her robe.

“I love you.” Pulling the edges together, he bent his head to kiss her. “That will never change.”

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Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

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