CASEY’S HAVEN
Autumn McCullah
Autumn McCullah
2
Casey’s Haven All Rights Reserved © 2001 by Autumn McCullah No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping, or by any information storage retrieval system, without the permission in writing from the author.
For information address: Autumn McCullah
[email protected] http://autumn.hypermart.net/am/am.htm
This is a work of fictional romance. All events, locations, themes, persons, characters and plot are completely fictional. Any resemblance to places or persons living or dead are the inventions of the author.
Printed in the United States of America
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CASEY’S HAVEN By Autumn McCullah
Trapped! Her dream vacation, a leisurely trip of discovery and adventure turned into a wretched fiasco all because of one jerk. Casey knew, even as she looked away, attempting to block out Erik’s presence that it was a lost cause. She didn’t have to be looking at him to know that his self-confident smirk was as bold as his predatory eyes. Unfortunately, Erik’s monstrous ego would not allow him to be ignored for long, as the sound of his familiar voice whispered softly, his lips almost brushing her ear. “Well, Casey my love, we meet again. And this time you won’t be able to run away.” His hand gripped her wrist as she struggled to rise from the cushioned seat. Why did she have to choose the window seat? Now Erik blocked her exit to the aisle. The overpowering scent of his sweet smelling cologne nauseated her. He must
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bathe in the stuff, she thought in dismay. She turned her head to look out the window. She couldn’t see any help there. But she could see his reflection, the smug look on his face, hear it in his voice, in his confident tone. Erik Jefferies had to be the most arrogant, self-centered person she’d ever had the misfortune to encounter. Avoiding him had become somewhat of a game over the past four years. And if she had the good fortune to see him first, she’d had the advantage to slip away unseen. But not so today! Casey sighed. How would she be able to enjoy herself if she had to anticipate his presence around every corner? A quick glance out of the small blue curtained window caused her spirits to plummet even more. The great white plane was already lumbering down the runway. So much for changing flights even if there was one for Athens in the next few hours. She had looked forward to this trip for so long. And now this unexpected intrusion into her carefully planned holiday. Damn Erik and his timing! Affecting a forced, brittle smile Casey turned to confront this irritating intruder. Her anger soared to flash point by his smile, the gleam of triumph in his gray eyes. She could almost hear a small link snap in the chain of control that she’d learned to impose on her temper. Oh, how she would like to slap that satisfied smirk from his face. Since she was by nature, not a violent person and abhorred violence, this urge went unheeded. She had never felt this way about another human being and was somewhat shocked she could even contemplate such an action. Taking a deep breath to ease the tightness in her chest, Casey confronted Erik. “Isn’t your wife with you?” “You know Rachel and I go our separate ways, except when it’s absolutely necessary to present a united front for the family. Besides, how could we be alone if she were around? Even as liberated as she is in her attitude towards me...and our marriage.”
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“You are not going to be alone with me in any circumstances, Erik. So I would greatly appreciate it if you would go find yourself another place to sit. And someone else to annoy,” she snapped. As he raised her captured wrist to his lips, she snatched it from his grasp. He merely smiled. “Please, Erik. Leave me alone!” “Never, my darling.” Resting his elbow on the armrest, he cupped his chin in his open palm to watch her. “Never!” he avowed. “Look, Erik. I thought I had made myself extremely clear a long time ago on the subject of you and me. There is you. Unfortunately. There is me. Two separate entities. There is now and never can be the remotest possibility of a you and me!” Watching his complacent smile, the way he was ignoring her plea caused her anger mount by degrees; conversely, her spirits plunged several more notches. The pink flush of anger colored her cheeks accentuating her remarkable blue green eyes. Exasperation altered their usual laughing gleam to a cold diamond brilliance. “If you would just give our relationship an opportunity to grow, you’d discover just how happy I could make you. How much I can give you. I know just looking at you is enough to make any man thankful to be alive.” “Oh, please! What can I say to make you understand, Erik? I am not in love with you. And I most certainly do not want your attentions or any form of relationship with you. Now or ever! You made your choice four years ago. And I will be eternally grateful you did. I might have been hurt at first. But you saved me from years of enduring a painful marriage.” The narrowing of his eyes told her he didn’t like to be reminded of his haste in ending their engagement. But he quickly rallied. “You know, darling, the one thing that keeps my hopes alive is the fact you haven’t found anyone to replace me in your life. It’s been almost four years.
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This shows me you haven’t forgotten all we meant to each other.” “Unfortunately, Erik, most unpleasant things have a way of sticking in our memories. No matter how hard we try to block them. And that is exactly what you are to me, Erik. An unpleasant memory.” She had the satisfaction of seeing him begin to chew on the inside of his lower lip, a habit he had when nervous or not quite so confident. Serves him right. “And not that it’s any of your business, but your information about my love life is not quite accurate. There is someone very special in my life. Someone who cares about me, warts and all,” she lied, enjoying the flash of suspicion on his face. “You know, I really feel sorry for Rachel. When I see how you treat her and abuse the sanctity of marriage, I can’t help but realize it could have been me. You did me a great favor when you ended our engagement.” “I don’t treat her any different than she does me,” he quickly defended himself. “Anyway, if I’d married you, it would have been different.” Taut white lines radiated from the corners of his mouth as the nervous tapping of his left foot against the carpet beneath his seat vibrated through their seats. Casey might not have possessed a socially acceptable background to suit the Jefferies' inner circle, might not be considered good enough to marry the son of Henry L. Jefferies' III, but Erik had convinced himself they could have had some interesting times together. They still could. If only he hadn’t been quite so hasty in ending their engagement. “Oh, be reasonable, Erik,” Casey snapped. “I don’t believe it would have been any different. You’ve proven yourself too shallow. You’re never going to settle for one woman when the world is glutted with a multitude, all ready and eager to fall into your waiting arms. My imagination won’t stretch to picture you bouncing a baby on your knee, or dealing with the everyday problems of a
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settled married couple,” she told him grinding out the words between clenched teeth, her hands tight fists in her lap. “I have never claimed to be the personification of paternal longings,” he hissed in retaliation. “But we could have some good times together and plenty of memories while we enjoy all my wealth has to offer. All right. I admit I made a terrible mistake by abruptly ending our engagement and marrying Rachel instead. But do we have to pay the rest of our lives by remaining apart?” “I certainly hope so!” Casey stammered spitting out each word. Finally she turned in her seat to face him, her eyes glittering shards of turquoise. “You refuse to accept what I’ve been saying for the last four years. Doesn’t any of this make an impression on you? The only memories you could possibly give me would be ones I would much rather do without.” She could hear her voice rising like a shrew but didn’t care. The man was a pest and a thorn in her well ordered life. “Let me put this so even you should be able to understand with little difficulty. I will die a virgin spinster before I would ever, ever consider becoming involved with you again!” “How can anyone as lovely as you have such an acid tongue? I thought Rachel was caustic, but I’m beginning to think she could take lessons from you.” “You have the uncanny ability to bring out my unpleasant nature, Erik,” she countered contemptuously. As quickly as his anger erupted, it melted away as he leaned back in his seat to study her more closely. “You are one of the loveliest women I have ever seen. You were adorable four years ago. But now you’re ravishing!” “Oh, give me a break! I don't mean a thing to you. Except as a challenge. I won’t fall into the role you want for me so you refuse to let go. I am not interested, Erik. There is someone else very important in my life now.” He studied Casey with the attention of an artist, noting her fair coloring, those large innocent eyes, their
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unusual blue green striking in combination with her slender, overall fragile appearance. Suddenly, he wasn’t quite as confident. Any man would be drawn to her delicate beauty. And she was alone in Greece. Not a good combination. Well, she wouldn’t be alone if he had any say in the matter. “You will be with me, Casey. Do I make myself clear? I don’t know whom you’re involved with, but you can forget him as of now. I accept we belong together and intend to see that it happens. Athens will make a romantic setting for our reconciliation,” he asserted with far more confidence than he truly possessed. She was the one woman who remained out of his control, out of his bed. He was tired of waiting. “Oh...go to hell!” Casey had never been filled with such rage, impatient with his constant pestering. Turning her back to him, she focused her attention on the scene outside the small window. It was no use arguing with him. No matter what she said, he wouldn’t take her seriously. She couldn’t seem to make him understand the contempt she felt for him after all this time. “Beautiful Casey,” he murmured. “I’ll let you get some rest now. When we arrive in Athens we’ll be extremely busy. But after I’ve made all the necessary arrangements, we’ll have time to talk this out. Then we can enjoy ourselves.” Confident he’d had the last word, Erik pushed his seat back, stretched his long legs for comfort and closed his eyes, apparently content in the knowledge he had the situation well in hand. If he heard Casey’s disgusted “humph,” he made no reply. Tears of frustration dampened her eyes, making them shine as she stared at her reflection in the window. She wouldn't let him see her cry. Never again. So she kept her face averted, facing the window as the armrest dug into her side. Casey Colleen Callahan was stubborn, with a temper that could ignite when provoked. Growing up,
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she’d learned to subdue the temper and feisty retorts. Now, it was only Erik’s presence that threatened her control and liberated her tongue. All it took was a minute dose of his company to light the fuse. Now, here he was about to ruin her vacation. Her favorite tour so far had been Italy. Her trip began six weeks ago in Rome. She’d spent an entire week there, absorbing the atmosphere, celebrating the history and delighting in the grandeur and people of the present. Then she had looked forward to Athens. There was so much she wanted to see. Things and places she’d read about in books. But now Erik was here upsetting her life once again. How could she ever have believed herself in love with him? For one thing she’d been too young to know what love was. And she certainly wasn’t in love with him now and hadn’t been for four years. Now she recognized his lack of character and integrity. She knew beyond the shadow of a doubt he didn’t have much backbone or ambition. He was simply a handsome exterior with nothing inside to admire. Raised by doting parents, surrounded by wealth, he had every desire lavishly fulfilled, saw no reason to dirty his hands or time with anything as mundane as work. To him, work was a four-letter word. It was something others did for him so he could lavish himself in luxury. Casey leaned closer to the window, unconscious of the armrest digging into her side. The billowy clouds formed peaks and ridges so substantial she felt she could actually step out of the plane and walk on their frothy trails. The picture of swirling white became blurred as she sought pictures from the past.
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CHAPTER 2
In spite of her independent lifestyle, in some ways Casey had been an extremely young nineteen, and naive. Until Erik, her dating had been limited to casual friends, no serious encounters. Of necessity, her studies had come before all else. Since she had no family, she’d had to maintain a full time job to support herself and her schooling. This hadn’t left much time for entertainment or dating. Which was fine with her. You don’t miss what you’ve never had. So she figured, once she graduated from college and was settled in a job, she could afford the luxury of a more active social life. Maybe even romance. But one night, she’d been badgered into attending a party with some friends from school. It was there that Erik had swept into her life. In her naiveté, he’d appeared charming and so handsome. And she’d been so trusting! No, not trusting. Just an idiot. He’d monopolized her time, taken her into protective custody the entire evening. For the first time Casey experienced the thrill of courtship and with this new feeling came the astounding realization that she was a young woman, and not a computer constantly being fed information. This heady discovery went straight to her head, unfortunately by passing the all-important reasoning
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part of her brain. Later she figured it must have shortcircuited for a while. For weeks she’d lived in a daze, head in the clouds all because of the continuous attention of Erik Jefferies. Delusion in full bloom, blinded by infatuation, she had been ecstatic when he’d proposed. If she’d felt uncomfortable with Erik’s family and friends, she’d pushed that uneasiness to the back of her mind. Nothing would be allowed to spoil her happiness, or so she’d believed. Erik’s mother completely dominated the wedding plans. She’d arranged the church, the guest list, chose the caterer, flowers and even Casey’s wedding gown. That young, inexperienced Casey had been totally in awe of the older woman with her grand manner and autocratic ways. But the dream had shattered just three weeks before the wedding. Erik appeared at her door promptly at eight o’clock. No! She wouldn’t think about that night. That unpleasant memory wasn’t going to be allowed to interfere with her vacation. A sad smile played at the corners of her lips as she contemplated the clouds beneath the plane, giant foam like mountains reaching up in awe of this gleaming white flying machine. She sighed. If nothing else, she had to give Erik marks for perseverance. A shame such drive and determination couldn’t be channeled into some meaningful endeavor. But then, Erik knew little of work and undoubtedly never would. His idea of hard labor was removing the cork from a vintage bottle of expensive wine. It had been over five wonderful months since she’d had the unfortunate luck to unwittingly cross his path. This just wasn’t fair! If she couldn’t lose him when they landed, the remainder of her vacation would be in ruins. She was devastated. But, she thought with resolve, desperate situations called for desperate solutions. Casey sighed as the sound of Erik’s voice penetrated her private reverie, and with it, putting the immediate problem back into focus. She had to come up with a plan, and fast.
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“I don’t know what hotel you’ve booked, but we’ll cancel the reservation. The villa I’ve leased will naturally offer much more privacy. And...” Casey’s head snapped around. “Erik! I have no intention of changing my plans for you or anyone else. And where I stay is my decision. You have no say in the matter at all. You do not fit in with any of my plans. Now or ever!” “For pete’s sake, Casey. Be reasonable. You’ll be a stranger in Athens. Being with me will be much better. And safer.” “Better for who, Erik? Certainly not for me. You take a great deal for granted. Just because the rest of the world might jump when you snap, it doesn’t mean I do. And you have no idea how many people I may or may not know in Athens. I don’t want your so called care or anything else from you.” She knew her voice was just short of being a shriek, but didn’t care. “Now look here, I...” “No! You look here. I don’t even like you. And just to prepare you, I am meeting someone here. Someone who will see that I am well taken care of. Besides,” her tirade was interrupted by the flight attendant announcing their arrival in Athens. With luck, her lie about being met would discourage him. Small hope, but better than nothing. Erik frowned as he digested this last bit of information. Deciding not to lose this chance with her, he continued as though she hadn’t spoken. “We’ll discuss this after we pick up our luggage. You just leave everything to me, darling.” “Ooh!” was all she was capable of uttering. If she wasn’t a lady, there were a few words she could say. But since she was a lady she just couldn't bring herself to verbalize them. The glimmer of a plan began to coalesce as her mind raced for a solution. She’d have to be alert for the right opportunity to make a safe, complete getaway. It
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might mean canceling her hotel reservations, but then, it would be interesting to stay at some small lodge. Somewhere he wouldn’t think to look for her. Anyway, she had planned to travel most of the time, so lodgings were not of prime importance. And since she wouldn’t be in any one place very long, just let him try to trace her movements once she left the airport. It was fortunate for her Erik couldn’t see her eyes at that moment, as a mischievous spark blazed in their blue green depths. This was a sure sign she was up to something. Casey loved a challenge and this was one of the biggest yet. Rather exciting too. If she could put this over on Erik and have her vacation, it would be all the more enjoyable. Erik was rambling on about the wonderful times they were going to have, just as he had been since they’d fought their way down the narrow aisle of the plane. This unpleasant, incessant droning continued as they passed through customs. But she paid little attention to the words, conscious only of the sound of his voice at her side. Her undivided attention centered on their surroundings as she oriented herself with the layout of the terminal building. Every atom of her being was on alert to an avenue of escape. She was beginning to feel like the heroine in a suspense novel, desperately trying to avoid the clutches of the arch villain. If this entire situation wasn’t so tragic, she might be tempted to laugh. And she would, just as soon as she was far away from Erik and his presumptuous plans for her vacation. They had already collected their luggage and were heading toward the front of the terminal. About fifty feet from the main exit Casey stopped, resting her luggage on the floor as she feigned weariness from their unaccustomed weight. A decision had to be made soon or she would be in real trouble. To her delight, just outside the exit a line of taxis waited in readiness at the curb. If she could manage it, one of them would be her getaway vehicle.
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Casey suppressed the chuckle gurgling deep inside, her sense of humor kicking back into gear. She might as well get as much fun out of this situation as possible. After all, how many first grade teachers get involved in such an intrigue? With the pretense of stretching cramped arms, she took one last casual look around, ready to grab her two pieces of luggage and run. She had almost come full circle when her attention was drawn to the most fantastic man she had ever seen. His long legs, sensuously clad in form fitting tan cords were eating up the distance as he advanced in her direction, determination etched on his face. He looked like a man who knew exactly what he was after. The beige roll neck sweater, partially concealed by a matching tan jacket, fit to perfection across the width of powerful shoulders. Casey noted the open admiration by any number of women in the immediate area; each transfixed by his animal grace and powerful bearing. “My God!” Nick gasped. It was her! After all these long weeks, she just appears practically on his doorstep. Almost before his brain completed the thought, he was moving in her direction, intent apparent on his face and in his long strides. He’d lost her once, but never again. He didn’t know the man next to her, didn’t really care who he was, except she seemed upset with him. Well, he, Nick Santos, would send him packing in a hurry. She was even more beautiful than he’d remembered. He had begun to believe he’d only imagined her. Her hair shining as moonlight on a still pond, body delicate as a fragile flower. And she was going to be his! Oh, yes! Definitely, now that she was here in Athens. Curiosity impelled Casey to look behind her to see who or what this magnificent specimen of manhood was after in such a hurry. Before she could swivel completely back around, she found herself crushed against a warm, hard chest, arms of steel wrapping her in a bruising embrace as his lips swooped to trap hers beneath his, hard
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against her tender mouth. Surprise robbed her of the strength to resist, even if his arms would allow any movement. Never in her twenty-four years had Casey been kissed like this! Wow! This man’s kiss made all the ones in her past seem sedate. She was beginning to think she would faint from the unleashed passion of his kiss, when her lungs cried out for relief, his mouth finally lifted from hers to blaze a searing path across her burning cheeks, down the sensitive side of her slender throat. His warm breath caressed her flushed face as he softly whispered unfamiliar words that only she could hear...calling her, “little bit” An eternity later, he raised his head to smile at the shocked expression on her face. His dark eyes twinkled with pleasure, burned with a brilliance she didn’t understand. A tiny voice whispered in the back of her mind, reminding her that she should be outraged. Be quiet, the rest of her mind and body shouted. For some unaccountable reason, she was speechless. This was definitely not her usual type of day! Casey’s bewildered gaze locked with his piercing dark eyes, as time seemed to halt for the two of them. Why she found herself drawn to this man, she didn’t know. She had never had this happen to her before, not even remotely. Suddenly, she was all too aware of the wild racing of her heart, the pleasant scent of his cologne; subtle unlike the overpowering scent Erik bathed in. Being in this man’s arms was heaven. She almost gasped out loud as this ludicrous thought danced in her head. Erik’s anger broke the silence, penetrating her stupor. “Casey! Would you mind telling me who this man thinks he is?” Sputtering, he continued before she could utter a word. He addressed the man holding Casey close to his side. “I’d like you to know that I do not like to have my fiancé manhandled in this manner.” Erik stood straight, clenching and unclenching his fists.
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Casey hoped even Erik had the sense not to start anything with this dark giant of a man. Power emanated from the larger man, leaving her in no doubt as to the victor if they came to blows. She shook her head, the movement finally releasing the brake on her speech center. “Erik Jefferies, you are not my fiancé and I wish you would leave me alone!” She stomped her foot in anger. Her rescuer smiled down at her as he spoke to Erik. “Since Casey seems reluctant to make the introduction, my name is Nicholas Santos.” He extended a huge hand that Erik rudely chose to ignore. “And I believe a mistake has been made, Mr. Jefferies.” “I would certainly agree on that point,” Erik acknowledged acidly. “You see, I’m the man Casey has come to Greece to marry. She is my fiancée. Not yours!” This shocking announcement drained all color from Erik’s face, just as it froze Casey to the spot. Nick’s voice was deep, cultured, his English with just a trace of an accent. He spoke softly, but there was no mistaking the ownership implied...this is my woman! A heart wrenching broad smile displayed straight white teeth that glistened in contrast to his darkly tanned face. That smile, however, did not reach his eyes. Eyes narrowed as he gauged Erik’s reaction. Nick wasn’t going to argue the point. He had found her at last. And no one was going to come between them. He was the man in possession and planned to stay that way. Casey sighed in delight. Her prayers had been answered in the form of this big, formidable man. Her joy could hardly be contained as she gulped back on a laugh. Nick towered over her five foot two inches. He had to be well over six feet in height. He was just plain big! His dark tan indicated someone who spent considerable time outdoors. His black hair was worn fashionably long and looked thick and luxurious. Casey wondered how it would feel to run her fingers through it. What had come
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over her? She had never had such a thought in her life before. This mess was affecting her more than she thought. She glanced up at Nick. Her breath caught in her throat as his dark eyes pinned her to his side. While he would never be considered handsome in the conventional sense, he possessed a rugged attractiveness that was compelling, a truly masculine aura that screamed of power and sensuality. He would be a spectacular lover with...her thoughts screeched to a halt. Stop it, she silently chided herself. Get a grip, girl. You’re in enough trouble as it is. Her traitorous body reacted to the touch of his hand at her waist, the feel of his hard muscled body pressed so close to her side. Why did her bones feel like they were melting just as her brain threatened to turn to mush? Or had she already suffered a melt down? Not even when she’d thought she was in love with Erik had she reacted like this. For the second time in minutes, she was at a loss for words. Most unusual for the normally talkative Casey. She stood frozen at Nick’s side, his arm resting possessively around her tiny waist. She gazed up into his dark eyes, a silent question in her own eyes. To Erik and anyone in their general vicinity, the petite young woman and the tall rugged Greek gave the impression of devotion, of love, the expression on their faces one of adoration. Only she and Nick knew it was utter astonishment, on her part at least. She had lied to Erik about being met in Athens, but now Nick’s appearance gave truth to her fib. Maybe this would finally convince Erik that they had no future together, even if he wasn’t married to Rachel. Even though she had just met Nick, she sensed he was enjoying the confusion his unexpected appearance had created for Erik. She didn’t question this. Just accepted it as a heaven sent gift. Having put Erik in his place, Nick turned his full attention to Casey. “I’m sorry to be late, Little Bit, but my
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plane was delayed. Otherwise, I would have met you at the gate to greet you properly.” His smile was as devastating as the feel of his body next to her. The warmth in his voice and his eyes made her toes curl, made her knees weak to say nothing of the impact on her heart rate. Who needs jogging to get the heart going? All she had to do was stand close in Nick’s arms! Casey had to say something. “Well, we’re together now and that’s all that matters.” Gosh, that sure sounded exciting! Be more convincing or you’ll have Erik back to square one, hounding you. “Nothing will ever separate us again,” Nick declared firmly. The splendor of his smile softened the lines around his mouth, his expression one of a lover. She correctly interpreted the warning written in his dark eyes, the tension in the muscled arm across her back. He had nothing to fear. She didn’t want to move, had no desire to withdraw from this unexpected haven. Somehow she knew Nick would not allow Erik to follow her once they left the terminal. And since she had no immediate desire to make a hasty exit from this newfound sanctuary, she accepted Nick’s presence as the answer to her immediate problem. She would be eternally grateful to him for his timely rescue from what could have been a most unpleasant situation. These unfamiliar, warm feelings Nick’s nearness aroused in her was something she would sort out later. Now it was wiser to take full advantage of this opportunity to dispatch Erik once and for all. For starters, she had to follow Nick’s lead. So far she had acted like a statue. In the third grade, she had played a very admirable Peter Pan and now, as an adult, she had better draw on some latent acting ability to play the part of a woman passionately in love. Throwing off her nervousness, she assumed a sparkling smile, her face lit with amusement as she draped her arm around Nick’s waist, leaning a little closer into his long length.
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“I’m so happy to be here at last. I can’t believe I’m really in Athens.” Nick lowered his head as his lips covered hers with a soft caress. He couldn’t wait any longer to kiss her again. She tasted so wonderful; her lips felt soft and yielding under his. He could live a hundred lifetimes and never get enough of her. When he raised his lips from hers, he smiled at the bemused look in her lovely eyes. “Now that I have you home with me, I have no intention of ever letting you out of my sight again.” Casey appeared unaware of the smoldering force behind Nick’s declaration, but Erik was alert to the determination in Nick’s voice and possessive stance as he held her close to his side. He didn’t like it one bit. The two men faced each other, their eyes narrowed, accessing his opponent as to strength and intent. Erik frowned as he studied the contented picture Casey made nestled so lovingly in the crook of Nick’s arm...as if she was actually comfortable there. Erik hadn’t moved since Nick interrupted his urgent talk with Casey. Now he was unsure of his next move. He didn’t like the feeling one bit. Greek men were reportedly possessive of their women. And if she were to marry this man... Casey grasped for something to say to break the uncomfortable silence surrounding them. “I’m so looking forward to meeting the rest of your family and finally seeing your home. I can’t believe I’ve actually arrived in Athens.” At least that last part was true. She swallowed a groan. This conversation was quickly taking on the sound of a stage play. And a bad one at that! If she was to be convincing, she had to think fast. She looked to Nick for help and almost gasped as he cherished her with his dark eyes, the sensation so real, it was almost a physical caress. For several seconds Casey was oblivious to her surroundings. The sounds and movement around her ceased to exist as she stood mesmerized by the raw masculine power emanating from
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this dynamic man, his forceful personality engulfing her in invisible arms. Erik, acutely aware of being momentarily forgotten, rudely broke the magical spell uniting Casey and Nick. “I find this exceedingly strange. Something just does not ring true about this sudden romance.” “What is it you find so strange, Mr. Jefferies?” Nick enjoyed a perverse sense of satisfaction in the other mans uncertainty. Good! he thought delighting in the discomfort registering on Erik’s face. Nick couldn’t contain a grin as Erik’s jaw tightened as he pulled Casey even closer to his long hard body. “Casey and I have traveled all the way from Rome together and not once did she mention you or the fact she was to be married. You would think she’d be shouting the news to the world.” Bristling with indignation, she jumped into the foray. “We did not travel together from Rome. We simply were on the same plane. Unfortunately in adjoining seats. And if you remember, I did tell you someone was meeting me in Athens. But at usual, you ignored me. And as for me not shouting our news to the world, our engagement has not been formally announced yet. And more to the point, it is none of your business. This is something we wish to share with family and friends first. You are not family. And you I do not consider a friend! And...” “That is enough, Casey. I think Jefferies gets the message. You do not owe him, or anyone an explanation.” Nick might have silenced Casey, but the same couldn’t be said for Erik. “I happen to have known Casey for almost five years. So, just as an interested bystander, I’d like to know where you met. Forgive me, but you don’t seem the type with which she usually keeps company,” he inquired with assessing insolence. “Actually, I saw Casey for the first time in Rome six weeks ago. And I will not explain nor apologize for our rush engagement. She has been on my mind and in my heart from our first encounter.”
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If Casey hadn’t known they had never met before, even she would be inclined to believe Nick meant every word. “Love at first sight, I suppose?” Erik said his lips pursed in disbelief. Nick laughed a deep, pleasant sound. She liked it. “You could say that.” Nick worshipped Casey with a passionate flame of desire in the gleaming depth of his dark eyes, with the ardent proprietorship of his body so close to hers. “Some men are just more sensitive and romantic than others.” The warmth in his eyes, his voice, the very feel of his body engulfed Casey as his hold tightened a fraction more, the muscles she felt through the material tensed and hard. “Very odd,” Erik mused, studying the couple thoughtfully, a slight hesitation before he continued, choosing his words with care. “Casey has never been one to jump into any relationship. Except with me, that is. I find it questionable she’s even capable of instant love.” “Of all the nerve! Well, thank you, Erik. For you information, I undoubtedly know more about love than you do. Everything in your life is based on dollar signs, stock options and a person’s monetary worth rather than qualities of the person. If you think for one minute...” Nick’s fingers dug into her waist aborting her defense. “I take it you do not believe in fate, Jefferies? Well, I do. And fate has directed Casey to me. Declared we are to be one. Only with each other can we find fulfillment. We complete each other. Don’t we, my Little Bit?” “Yes.” Now why had she said that? She wanted to open her mouth to say something, anything to end this charade which was getting out of hand. But the connection between her brain and her mouth seemed to have been severed. She closed it again without uttering another word. Nick’s warning look also demanded her silence. Stranger yet, she obeyed. “Oh, come now,” Erik’s insolent laugh rang out. “It will take more than fate to thaw out her cold nature.
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Beautiful she might be, but I’m afraid quite without passion.” Nick’s icy cold tone dispensed with all pretenses at politeness. “I couldn’t disagree with you more, Jefferies. Her passion, her warmth, she has saved for me. And only me!” To Casey’s surprise and delight, Erik was the speechless one for once. Maybe he would finally accept she was not interested in him and so could get on with her life. The current of resentment she sensed was a battle of wills shared by the two men. “The Casey you knew was not able to respond to those other relationships because she has been waiting for me. It was meant to be, our being married. Our being together. And neither of us could avoid the inevitable, no matter how much we might try. “As to our wedding, it will take place one week from today. And since you claim to be an acquaintance, though an unbeliever in love, or at least our love, you are most certainly invited. Your presence will also ensure there will be no doubt as to which man is in total possession.” Neither man smiled. But smiling was all Casey was capable after Nick dropped that bombshell. A dumb smile of pretended happiness. She was utterly dismayed. If she denied Nick’s plans for their future, she’d be back to square one with Erik’s unwanted attendance at her elbow. And denying the impending marriage would anger Nick. She didn’t understand why this was important. But her day had been unpleasant enough and she was reluctant to court more. Drawing her lower lip between her teeth, she lifted her face to look at Nick who was staring at Erik. His anger would be alarming if fully aroused was her guess. Besides, if he was thoughtful enough to help her out to this extent, the least she could do was to go along with the act. Wouldn't Erik be surprised when he showed up and there was no wedding? But by then she would be
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lost in the miles of wonders to explore in Greece and she would be safe.
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CHAPTER 3
But if she thought Nick was finished with Erik, she was in for one more shock. She listened in dismay as he calmly announced the name of a chapel and eleven o’clock Friday morning as the place and time for the wedding. The three were so engrossed in their conversation, it was several seconds before they became aware of a fourth joining their little circle. The silky voice spoke from behind Nick, the mockery in the feminine voice freezing Casey’s racing heart. “And as a friend of the groom,” she purred, “am I also included in the invitation, darling? Since we’ve shared so much in the past, I think it only fair to wish you well at your wedding. Don’t you?” Nick frowned as this new arrival moved to stand close by his other side, a perfectly manicured hand possessively caressing his arm. He couldn’t for the life of him think how he could have let himself get involved with Angela Britton. Their affair had been extremely brief, three weeks to be exact. It hadn’t taken him long to discover that Angela possessed about as much warmth as an arctic glacier. While it was true that she was a beautiful woman, it was all on the outside. Inside there was a calculator where her heart should have been. Angela was beautiful, above average in height, which spawned a spark of envy in Casey. Her own lack of
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physical stature was a sore point with her. Always had to be in the front row in school pictures. Still has to stand on a step stool or chair to reach high places. Now it was the two women who took stock of each other. Not only was the other woman considerably taller than Casey, she was more rounded too. And in all the right places. Her dark hair was cut short with wispy curls framing her perfectly made up face. She was flawless. But it was her eyes that drew your attention, once you got by the curvaceous figure. They were pale blue, in startling contrast to her dark hair. Those eyes casually passed over Casey as if they found her wanting. Then, with obvious rudeness, she turned her full attention to Nick. Her suggestive smile, the intimacy implied by those flashing eyes, plainly indicated a relationship, a closeness that was in all likelihood, not platonic. A relationship that could still be flourishing? The vision of Nick with this woman made Casey’s chest ache. Why, she had no idea. After all, it was none of her business. Right? Right. When she glanced up to gauge his reaction, she noted the small white lines around the corners of his mouth that hadn’t been there before. No. This was not a happy man! He seemed to be holding a tight reign on his temper as he eased Casey even more firmly into the curve of his shoulder. Good grief! Any closer and she’d be in his pocket! “Angela Britton, this is my fiancé, Casey. And an old acquaintance of hers, Erik Jefferies.” “Casey? What a strange name for a woman? And Casey what, may I ask?” Angela spoke to Nick but looked straight at Casey. Her simpering, uninterested tone made it clear she discounted Casey as any real threat. One pair of blue green eyes and one pair of blue locked in combat as one Irish temper soared to the surface, the brake on her mouth lifted, no consideration given to the outcome of her actions. The words were out of her mouth almost before she was aware of uttering them. “Casey
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Colleen Callahan’s the name and teaching is my game. Until I became a big game hunter and landed Nick, that is.” That, she thought with grim satisfaction, should put you in your place and bury me in mine. Nick burst into laughter. Angela gasped in indignation. Nick’s eyes glimmered with merriment as he leaned forward, kissing the tip of Casey’s nose before brushing her lips with a gentle caress. Angela was livid. “She’s a little snippy, isn’t she darling? I thought you preferred your women quiet and adoring? And fully grown!” The poisonous venom in her glare raked Casey from head to toe. “Sheath your claws, Angela! Casey isn't accustomed to the back stabbing ways of your inner circle. And if it’s within my power to prevent it, she’ll never have to endure such treatment from anyone,” Nick commanded icily. If Angela was taken aback by Nick’s reaction, she covered the fact, letting her smiling mask fall back into place. Casey had to admire her composure. “You must really be in love, Nick darling. I’ve never seen you jump to the defense of any woman so quickly. Except your aunt, of course. My congratulations! But you still haven’t said if I’m to be invited to this...wedding? And I do so enjoy all weddings. Even hastily put together ones.” Please don’t invite her, Casey pleaded silently. Inwardly she groaned. She had to get her act together. There wasn’t going to be any wedding. Nick was playing his part so convincingly, he had her believing it was real. It was fine with her if Erik and this woman showed up at the chapel to find they’d been duped. But this bizarre gathering of old friends had better break up soon, before she lost all contact with reality. What an exceptional arrival in Athens this had turned out to be! The lure of a quiet hotel sounded more and more welcoming as the minutes ticked by.
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Casey’s heart lurched. A piercing flash of disappointment descended. Because this was just an act? This is ridiculous. You don’t meet someone and less than twenty minutes later wish you were going to marry them. It was not practical by any stretch of the imagination. And Casey had been practical and rational all her life. She was just tired and over wrought. A good night’s sleep would put everything back into proper perspective. Tomorrow she would be able to look back on this episode and laugh. Forcing herself to focus on the conversation in progress, it seemed Angela was welcome to come to the wedding... “and since this is to be a small wedding, the reception will be held at my home. Now, if you’ll excuse us, we have much to do. I see Yannis, my driver, waiting.” Nick placed a hand in the small of Casey’s back, propelling her toward the exit. It was the escape route she’d decided on before Nick’s timely intervention. They had moved only a few feet when Nick stopped and turned to the flustered couple left behind. “We will be officially announcing our engagement tomorrow night. Perhaps you would like to join us for dinner? At eight at our home?” “I for one, would be delighted to accept your invitation,” Erik was quick to reply. An idea was taking shape. He hadn’t lost Casey yet. “I, too, wouldn’t miss this dinner for anything in the world, darling.” “Very well. Angela, I’m sure you can give Erik direction to the house?” Erik and Angela stood rooted to the spot, both in a state of shock for the same reason. They were accustomed to getting what they wanted with very little effort and didn’t let anyone stand in the way of something that they truly wanted. Now Nick Santos had thwarted each. Erik was angry that Casey had not gone along with his plans for his stay in Athens and livid that Nick had laid
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claim to what he’d coveted for a long time. So what if he’d married someone else? His marriage was more of a business venture than a romantic relationship. He’d tried to explain that to Casey on more than one occasion, but she just wouldn’t listen. The more she evaded him, the more determined he was to possess her as his mistress. One of the reasons he’d decided on this trip abroad was that his latest lover had become a little too demanding of his time and had begun hinting that she’d like to be Mrs. Erik Jefferies. So he’d paid the rent on her apartment for the next six months and bought her a spectacular pair of diamond earrings. She’d been in tears when he’d told her goodbye and continually called his home. That’s when he’d decided a vacation was just the answer to his dilemma. The fact that Rachael had intercepted a couple of those calls from Sharon had spurred him into a hasty retreat until the situation cooled down. And Angela had been after Nick Santos for over four years now. She’d set her sights on him and had turned down several offers of marriage during that time. Not only was Nick a fabulous looking man, he had the wealth and position to keep her in the style she’d come to adore. But he hadn’t been cooperating. The one thing that kept her hopes alive and the reason she sought any and all invitations where she knew he would be was that he hadn’t been seeing anyone exclusively for several years. Now he shows up with a little twit of a girl claiming she was his fiancée. Well, not if she had anything to say about it. Angela finally looked up at the man by her side. That skinny little nobody must have a past and this man knew her. “Mr. Jefferies?” she asked as she studied the thin lines around his mouth as he scowled at the retreating couple. Erik heard his name as if through a fog and looked at Angela, at once recognizing her as a kindred spirit. “Angela, isn’t it?” “Angela Britton,” she said extending a perfectly manicured hand.
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“I believe we have a mutual problem. I don’t know about you, but I don’t know if I believe that corny story about their meeting in Rome,” Erik said watching for her reaction. “Nick has to be lying through his teeth. I’ve known him for years and he’s so careful and thorough about everything in his life. There is no way he would marry with such haste.” She gave Erik a speculative look. ‘You said you were engaged to that twit? Perhaps we should go somewhere and have a drink to discuss our problem?” Erik smiled. “Good idea. And you can tell me more about this Nick Santos.” They headed for the nearest lounge. Once seated and their drinks in front of them, Erik wasn’t sure where to begin. Could he trust Angela? She reminded him a great deal of his wife, Rachel. How far would she be willing to go to breakup that unlikely couple? If he had difficulty on where to begin, Angela didn’t. “Just how well do you know this little teacher? I mean, she’s so plain and such a little upstart. What is there about her that could possibly interest a man of Nick’s position and wealth?” Erik felt he had to come to Casey’s defense on one point. “Actually, Casey is far from plain. As a matter of fact, she’s a very attractive woman. But you’re right about one thing. I was engaged to her and believe me, she didn’t really fit in with my family and social group. But don’t underestimate her. She’s smart and determined once she sets her mind to something.” Like evading him and managing very well to stay out of his way, he thought to himself. But he wasn’t about to say that to Angela. Yes, Angela was a lot like Rachael, but he could use her to gain information and maybe enlist her help. They had nothing to lose if all failed. Angela leaned forward to talk. “Just how well do you know her? What’s her family like? I want to know just everything,” she told Erik eager to find a way to make Casey disappear from Nick’s life.
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Erik quirked a brow at the word family. Then he smiled but it wasn’t warm or pleasant. “Family, background…hmmm. Believe me, she is no where in our social circle.” “Oh, do tell me more,” Angela prodded, quick to latch onto Erik’s bit of information. “Well…she deceived me about her family and background during our engagement. We couldn’t get her to even talk about her family. This naturally made us suspicious. I had no recourse but to have someone look into the matter. And what they discovered was appalling.” It had never occurred to Erik or his family to feel any compassion for Casey. All that had concerned them was what others would say about someone with a background like hers in the Jefferies family. “Do you think she’s told Nick anything about her background?” Angela asked talking more to herself than to Erik. The Santos family was an old and proud family. Nick wouldn’t want to do anything to bring shame to the family name. “If she’s running true to form, I’d say no. And maybe that’s our ace in the hole. If we can get this information to him before the wedding, if there is really one planned, then he’d have time to call off the whole affair,” Erik said smiling for the first time since landing in Athens. “Here’s what we’ll do,” he said leaning forward as he began to tell her all about Casey Callahan and what they could do tomorrow night at the dinner party. When Erik was done telling Angela his side of the story, he sat back knowing he had this woman on his side. They would drop a bombshell on that party and Casey would be sent packing in no time. Angela smiled. “Oh, how I wish we could locate this Maggie Callahan. I’d love to see Casey’s face when she walked into the room. And Nick. And that cold fish of an aunt.” “Unfortunately, no trace of her was ever found. My people really didn’t look for her though. We were simply
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interested in the facts about Casey’s background rather than meeting any of the people involved. If we had more time, we could try to locate her. But…” he left the sentence unsaid. “I do like the way you think though,” he told Angela with a grin. “Well, we’ll do the best we can at the dinner party. For myself, I won’t believe it until I see them at the church after the ceremony. And even then, I don’t see how that plain little twerp will be able to keep Nick contented for long. When he does get bored, I plan to be around and available to console the man. It shouldn’t take him long to realize what a mistake he’s made.” “I have to agree about the wedding. I’ll believe it when I see it,” Erik said thoughtfully. But he wasn’t so sure about Nick tiring of Casey, at least in the immediate future. He would see this thing through but if she really did marry that man, he’d have to be on his way. From what he’d seen of Nick Santos, it wouldn’t be a good idea to hang around after he and Casey were married. The man was apparently not only rich but undoubtedly carried a great deal of power in the financial world. Erik wasn’t about to do anything to endanger the family fortunes. “Well, darling, I must be off to get ready for tomorrow night. Where are you staying? I’ll pick you up at seven,” Angela said picking up her purse ready to leave. She scribble her name and address on a scrap of paper. “This is where I’m staying. You can reach me there if you get any good ideas for tomorrow.” “I’m at the Athenaeum, 89-93 Syngrou Avenue, room 405,” Erik told her throwing some bills down on the table as he stood. “I’ll be waiting in the lobby at seven.” “See you then,” Angela said waving as she walked away. Erik sat back down for a few minutes lost in thought before he left. He had some business calls to make before this dinner party.
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Nick didn’t wait for an acknowledgment before, once again, propelling a mystified Casey toward the door and his waiting car. He carried his suitcase in one hand and one of hers in the other, leaving her with no option but to hang onto her other case and try to keep up with his long strides. The motion of her legs seemed to break the paralysis of her tongue. “Nick, you have one of my bags!” His stride never faltered. “Wait up!” He continued walking towards the car, never breaking his pace as she struggled behind him. “Will you please slow down and give me my luggage? This is ridiculous. No. Forget that. This has gone way past ridiculous into the realm of the absurdity. I never expected to run a foot race or I’d have worn my running shoes.” When he finally stopped suddenly at the curb, she careened into his back. He appeared unaffected but she felt as if a truck had hit her. The man was hard as a rock. She guessed, by the feel of his arm around her waist, the feel of his side pressed against hers, that the man was in excellent shape, and now she was left in no doubt. He couldn’t have an ounce of fat on him. He was all hard muscle. Her mouth suddenly went dry as she pictured him in naked glory. Her paler delicate skin next to his. Their bodies...She shook her head to dislodge the image. Was she out of her mind? Just get your suitcase and get out of here, she admonished herself quickly. An older man met them at the curb; his dark hair peppered with gray, skin lined by age and although shorter than Nick, he still towered over Casey. When he reached
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for her case, she snatched it back as Nick just stood there and grinned. “Casey, this is my driver, Yannis.” “I don't' care who he is. He’s not getting my luggage.” She looked up at the older man, not wanting to hurt his feelings. After all, he was only obeying his employer. She was surprised by a gentle smile of approval and a twinkle in his black eyes. He said something in Greek. Nick laughed a sound from deep within his throat. It produced a curious warm sensation along Casey’s spine. Nick ignored her outburst as he handed over the two cases he carried, one of them hers. “Nick! We have to talk...now!” “We’ll talk in the car.” The pressure of his hand at her waist forced her toward the long expensive car as they followed Yannis. Nick was quite pleased with himself. He’d gotten her away from Jefferies, and now, just maybe Angela would get the message and quit pestering him. Nick pried the remaining case from Casey’s reluctant fingers, actually freeing her hands as she used them to accentuate her words as she rambled. “I don’t want to talk in the car or anywhere else. I just want to be on my way. You have some nerve! But enough is enough. This has gone too far! If you will just give me my bags, I can jump in a taxi and be away before anyone is the wiser.” Her small, slender hands fanned the air as she talked. Nick smiled. He couldn’t help it. She was so beautiful he couldn’t take his eyes off her. Yannis had never seen his employer so delighted. But no wonder! This young woman was such a lovely little thing. She was so delicate she would bring out any man’s protective instincts. A bushy eyebrow arched as he recalled the women Nicholas usually had by his side. Years of experience made Yannis a pretty good judge of character. And now he was sure, just by watching this delightful creature, she was nothing like the others. He chuckled to himself. Things would liven up a bit around
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the estate now that Nicholas had this one in tow. And from the look on her face, it was already beginning. As Yannis took his place behind the wheel, he was quick to pick up on the conversation as Nick ushered Casey into the back of the expensive car. She was still talking. “How can you invite those two to a wedding that is not going to take place? Well, that I can see. They would just show up at the chapel with no one there. But you’ve also invited them to a dinner party to announce our engagement. And at your home! How do you get out of that one? Pretend not to be home? What are you going to do? I most certainly am not going to be there to hear that explanation.” Nick grinned down at her. “I assure you I’m quite aware of what I’m doing.” His voice was low; his eyes caressing as he sat close by her side, so close the soft floral scent of her perfume made him ache to hold her in his arms. But he had to go slow. Now that he had her with him, he could relax and court her properly. After all, he had a week before the wedding. “Look,” she tried one more time, expecting him to take her seriously. “I went along with this charade because I thought it was very nice of you to come to my rescue. And I do thank you for helping me out of an intolerable situation with Erik. But now I would really like to get my bags from your driver and be on my way. I can get to my hotel from here.” Suddenly she became aware of the motion of the car. “Hey! Where are we going?” “Home.” As if that explained everything. Her tirade had simply bounced off his broad shoulders as he calmly smiled, a raised eyebrow the only indication her words had been heard. “Please, Mr. Santos...” “Since we are going to be married next Friday, I think it would be permissible for you to call me Nick, as you did before.” His dark eyes searched her face as if memorizing every feature, noting the strands of white gold
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hair that had worked free from the taut confines of the band at her nape. Her small hands clenched in frustration as they rested primly on her knees. Oh! She would like to shake him, but that would be like trying to shake a mountain. “Nick. Look, we are not going to be married next week or at any other time. As I said, I appreciate what you did for me back at the terminal. But it’s over. Please!” She gasped in protest upon realizing they had just left the airport behind them. They were on their way to Nick’s home whether she liked it or not. “Come, my Casey,” he cajoled. “If your friend were to discover we were not getting married, but you were actually staying on your own at some hotel, he would be at your side instantly. And I think it’s safe to say he would not leave you alone, no matter what you said to him. Am I correct?” “Yes, but...” “And there are other...considerations.” “Such as?” she asked suspiciously. “Such as Angela Britton. I assure you, I am as anxious to be rid of her attentions as you are to be rid of Erik’s. This way we will be doing each other an enormous favor.” Casey gasped. The man must be mad! “Don’t you think the cure is a little much. I mean, two people don’t get married just to discourage the unwanted attentions of other people.” Nick threw his head back in a rich bark of laughter. “Are you saying the cure might be worse than the sickness?” The sound of his laughter, the warmth of his smile was having an odd impact on her heart rate. Why, she had no idea. This had never happened to her before. Stop this now, commanded the rational half of her brain. The other half was controlling her body. And doing a poor job of it too. It was experiencing these new sensations and
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apparently enjoying them to the exclusion of common sense. What had they been talking about? Oh, yes. “Yes, that is exactly what I’m saying,” she stormed at him, using anger as protection. “I’m on vacation. I can’t get married.” “Why?” he snapped. “Is there someone waiting for you back in the states?” “No. But...” “Good! Then there is no problem. We are both free to marry anyone we choose.” “You’re right. And I don’t choose to marry you or anyone at this time.” “But you have already agreed.” “What are you talking about? I never said I’d marry you?” Casey was now confused and angry. If she remembered most of their conversations, she had definitely never agreed to marry him. “Oh, but you did. In front of two witnesses. Two close friends who, I have no doubt, are spreading the word as we speak.” "As I recall, I never said we were going to be married. You did all the talking." Nick grinned at her. "As I recall...you told them our engagement had not been formally announced, which indicates you had agreed to marry me. Plus you did not deny the impending marriage at any time during our conversation with Erik and Angela. Why was that, I wonder?" "You know very well why. Erik is a creep of the first magnitude and would completely ruin my vacation if I had. But that doesn't mean we have to go ahead with a wedding." "Oh, but I think it does. For several reasons." He studied her exasperated expression for several seconds. Then he spoke to Yannis in rapid Greek. The older man nodded his head in acknowledgment, then used a car phone
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and was soon absorbed in a discussion with someone at the other end of the line. At first, Casey's hopes climbed, thinking Nick was going to take her back to the airport or maybe to her hotel. But this foolish notion was short lived. She sat with hands folded tightly in her lap, head averted, at a loss how to make Nick understand. Erik was an obnoxious pest but at least he had never kidnapped her. And he was a known commodity. She didn't know a thing about Nick. Except he could be a determined bully. Why did this happen to her? If anyone would have suggested when she embarked on this vacation she would virtually be shanghaied, she would have laughed. Well, she wasn't laughing now. Wait a minute. The glimmer of an idea began to take root. Maybe, when they reached their destination, she could talk Yannis into helping her. He seemed nice and friendly when Nick introduced them. Sort of fatherly. Yes, she would try to get him on her side. Slowly she looked up encountering Nick's probing gaze. It was ridiculous, but it was as if he could read her mind. And when he spoke, he confirmed this feeling. "I wouldn't ask Yannis to help you, my Casey." The quiet, calm way he said her name was a caress, soft and silky. Then, she knew, he really meant to keep her with him. "I...," she faltered. Damn the man! He saw too much. She glared at him. "Yannis has served my family for many hears and is exceedingly loyal. He can plainly see how much you mean to my happiness and would do nothing to cause me undo pain." "But we're strangers!" she snapped. "And this is kidnapping!" He took her clenched hands into one of his, raised them to his lips. His lips were warm as the feather like kiss rocked her defenses, sending shivers to her toes. These were feelings so alien they frightened her.
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"Why?" she whispered. She found herself speechless as the feel of his body pressing against hers, the heady smell of his cologne and his special scent combined to rob her of all common sense. What would it like to have Nick as a lover? To have him possess her as no man ever had. And never could. She couldn't forget that. If she did, there would be misery for all involved. And she'd been hurt enough. What was the matter with her? She was courting disaster. Casey had never been so aware of a man, of his masculinity. Not even Erik. And she had thought she was in love with him. No one had ever made her feel so feminine, made her feel attractive, made her feel it was wonderful to be a woman. No one until Nick. In the past, Casey had been the one in control of a relationship or situation. She would never let anyone have control over her life as she had with Erik during the duration of his courtship. But now, she couldn't deny it, it was Nick who seemed to hold the reins. Her breathing quickened as she sought frantically to gain control of her emotions. Her body and her mind had to think in unison. But her body didn't want to cooperate! Nick studied her hands so small in his larger one, her skin soft, and although tanned, still pale in comparison to his. He felt her tense at his touch and something else...fear? Or both? What could have hurt her in the past to make her so distrustful? Part of it was probably Erik, damn the man, but he sensed there was something more. "Casey Colleen Callahan. I love the sound of your name. And I think you have the fire to go with such a name. Hmm?" Once again he raised her hands to his lips, branding then with his warm lips. "If by fire, you mean temper, then yes. I match my name perfectly. Although I have learned to keep it under control. Most of the time! But if you don't have a damned good explanation for dragging me off against my will, I'll be more than happy to give you a good demonstration of a tantrum," she said glaring at him, her sweet lips pursed in
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exasperation. Maybe if she made him mad enough, he'd put her out on the street. She peeked at him from under her long lashes, expecting an eruption. He was relaxed, almost amused and unruffled. "My reasons for our marriage are as I stated before concerning Erik and Angela, plus the fact that I'm thirty six years old and want a wife and children." Casey snorted. "But why me? You're not the least bit repulsive." If only he were. "I should think you could acquire a wife in the usual manner, instead of kidnapping and brute force. This isn't the Middle Ages, you know?" Her withering glare would have instilled fear in a lesser man. Nick's laughter was accompanied by a broad devilish smile. God! She was adorable. "I'll take that as a compliment. And encouragement for our future together." She didn't trust herself to utter another word. What was the use? He turned everything she said around to suit his purposes. She turned to look out the window, but he took her chin in his fingers, forcing her to look at him. She reached up to remove his hand, his touch from her face. But as she did, their gazes melded. Something potent, something she was at a loss to define surged between them. Swirling flames spiraled from the center of her being, engulfing her from head to toe. A nervous pulse throbbed in the hollow of her throat as her treacherous body ached for his touch, to feel the tingling pressure of his mouth on hers. Nick read the longing in her eyes, his own eyes darkening to black pools as he lost control. With an impatient groan he hauled her into his arms, crushing her to his chest. His mouth was urgent with fierceness like nothing in Casey's previous meager experience. For once, her mind and body were in accord, reveling in the taste of Nick as his mouth ravished hers, soaring at the touch of his hands against her back, the feel of his arms encasing her in a shroud of passion.
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His hold didn't lessen, but his kiss became gentler, as if sensing her inexperience. Her lips parted, inviting his tongue to gently probe the sweet softness of her mouth. He couldn't get enough of her as his tongue waltzed with hers in a dance of sensual discovery. With a smothered groan, he tore his mouth from hers. His lips trailed a tingling path down the soft, inviting column of her throat. Casey felt limp as he drained all her strength, common sense, leaving her helpless in his powerful arms. She responded to his touch, his kisses with abandon. He felt so good, so right. The time of protest had gone as she kissed him back with all the warmth and passion she possessed. Passion long hidden away but now released to flood her senses, her body with longing. Her arms circled his neck, her fingers fanning through his hair, just as soft and luxurious a she'd imagined. She didn't want to leave this haven, was oblivious to everything except Nick. He knew if he didn't pull back soon, they would be in real trouble. When he made love to her, it wouldn't be in the back of a car. It took an amazing amount of resolve for him to pull back. Her breathing was as erratic as his when he finally summoned the strength to raise his head. He studied her face as if memorizing every facet. "My God, if ever a woman needed a man to take care of her, it is you, my little bit!" Now that she could breath, common sense rallied. Along with bewilderment at her response to his kiss. To cover her confusion, she resorted to anger. "I am not your anything!" She pushed her way out of the protection of his arms, or as far as he was willing to let her retreat. "And no one has ever kissed me like that! And don't' call me little! You're just...you're just too big!" Nick's roar of laughter filled the car. "And you are my pocket-sized love. And have, I am delighted to say, been kissed properly for the first time in your life. If I am not mistaken. And I am not, am I?" "You're such an expert I presume?" she snapped, embarrassed by her own lack of experience and his correct
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interpretation of the situation. And he didn't have to look so smug about it. "I don't think I've ever been improperly kissed in the past, thank you," she announced haughtily. Then sighed at the stupidity of the remark. "This has to be the most idiotic conversation to be having with a complete stranger." Her hands fanned the air in frustration. He smiled at her apparent helplessness as he captured both her hands, drawing them once again to his lips. "Relax, Little Bit, and enjoy the short journey to your new home. And we are not strangers. We belong together. You can feel it too even if you don't want to admit it yet." With a contented sigh, he leaned back against the plush seat, long legs stretched out in front, crossed casually at the ankles, confident he had the situation well in hand. Casey stared at him in consternation. He was just like Erik, always expecting to have the last word. Always thinking he should have the last laugh. This was all so confusing. If she were honest with herself, she didn't really resent Nick's actions. She peeked at him, noting the strong profile, full beautiful mouth. For so long now, she'd protected herself against any involvement. These strange, powerful feelings Nick aroused in her so easily were unnerving. Should be unwelcome. And they were. Yes, they definitely were, she lied to herself. But another part of her brain whispered, but so pleasant! Casey sighed. Above all else, she had to remember who she was and where she came from. She couldn't' afford to put herself in a position to be hurt again. She was too frustrated to relax. For someone proud of her independence, she wasn't having much success with this man beside her. He paid her outburst as much attention as Erik. Reluctantly, she had to admit she was attracted to Nick. He didn't repel her as Erik had. If only he did, it would make everything so much easier. She turned to stare out the window; her lips pursing as her mind called up the memories of the ending of her engagement to Erik. They'd been invited to another party.
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But this night, as soon as Erik entered her small, neat apartment, she'd immediately sensed something was terribly wrong. She all but cringed at his cold, hostile expression, the forbidding straight line of his lips. He'd been brutally frank. "I'm afraid our engagement will have to end, Casey. There will be no wedding." She'd stared in stunned silence, her mind not willing to acknowledge the intention of those cruelly spoken words, ones uttered with uncompromising vehemence. The regular beat of the clock on the bookshelf vibrated against the tension in the room as her eyes locked with Erik's, hers in confusion and anguish...his in blazing anger. "Why?" she croaked past the lump in her throat. "Why? She has the nerve to ask!” he snarled. "Read this," thrusting a black folder into her trembling hands then stalked across the room to stand in front of the window, his rigid back to her immobile figure. Confused and alarmed at this new side of Erik's character, Casey opened the ominous folder with unsteady hands. At first, her eyes refused to focus on the words, but then one or two made an impression on her befuddled mind. Words like slum, loose morals and unsavory swam before her eyes. She looked up, a questioning hurt in her eyes. But he stood with his back to her. That posture spoke volumes. "I don't understand. This...this is about my stepmother. Not me! And how did you get all this information?" Tears threatened, but she'd been too numb for them yet. "Well, my dear. Let me explain. I come from a very proud and prominent family. We had to know everything about your background. Especially, since you have been suspiciously vague about it yourself." Casey's temper began to smolder. "Well, why didn't you come out and ask me directly? If you'd shown any real interest, I would have discussed it with you. But no, you went behind my back as if I were a criminal." She had to
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admit she'd never felt really comfortable with his family. And they had never appeared particularly interested about her life before Erik. There had been a few pointed questions that made her feel as if she were being interrogated, judged in some unkind way. So, her replies had been vague. "But would you have told us the truth? I doubt it. No one would freely admit to a family such as that," indicating the folder. "I don't lie! You should talk about the truth," she stormed at him. "Oh, we finally got to the truth, didn't we? It was a simple matter of hiring a detective to compile a dossier on you. And a thorough one at that. It certainly turned up some absolutely shocking facts about your family," he sneered. The angry tilt of his eyes as he turned from the window accused, judged and passed sentence. "But why should this matter? It's what a person is, not where they come from that is important." The rosy haze of their courtship began to lift. This new perspective was as painful as Erik's rejection. With hands clenched at his sides, he stepped towards her. "What if our colleagues or people in our social circle were to inquire into your background after the wedding. And all this disreputable business was made public? My mother-in-law, the neighborhood harlot! The press would have a field day with that little item, I assure you. To say nothing of the members of our club, people whose opinions and contacts we value. My family name would have become a laughing stock, the brunt of tasteless humor." He looked as if he wanted to strike her. "Why didn't you tell me?" he hissed. "She was my stepmother. And she wasn't as bad as this indicates." Even if she had been, Casey would never admit it to Erik. Not then, not ever. "She just had a lot of men friends. This is something I would really like to forget. Besides, I haven't seen or heard from her since I
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was sixteen. She left with a man. I don't know where she went, nor do I care. You must understand, that was a painful time in my life that I just don't like to talk about." "Oh, I can plainly understand why you don’t discuss such a degrading subject," making it obvious he couldn't fathom the distress she'd been subjected to during that tender time in her life. "But I'm me. I'm nothing like her." She started to plead with him to understand, to give their relationship another chance when she realized the scathing glare directed at her told her more than words, it would do no good. She'd done nothing to apologize for, nor anything requiring a defense. How could she have been to stupid to give this man the power to expose her to such pain? How dare he not be the man she thought she loved? Casey Callahan had never begged for anything in her life and she wasn't about to start. The arrogance of the man was not to be believed as his next words almost sent her and her temper into orbit. "This doesn't mean we cannot see each other. Quite the contrary. I still want you." Want. Not love. "As you well know, I have the means to take care of you for as long as we remain together." He faced her, a loathsome, smug look on his too handsome face, so sure of himself now that he'd formally ended their engagement. "Oh? And what makes you think I would ever want to see you again?” blazing anger threatened to burst into flame. She wasn't good enough for the front parlor, but he was willing to keep her around for his own private entertainment. That naive, she wasn't. "Look, darling. I know this has upset you, but..." "Upset me! You couldn't possibly understand how I feel, Erik." "If you'll kindly let me finish. But...as soon as I get you out of this cubbyhole and into a nicer apartment, or a house of your choosing, we'll be happy. I'll see you have
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everything you want. And when we finally part, you'll be well taken care of. I promise." He actually had the audacity to believe she was open to such an insulting offer. She jerked out of reach as he tried to take her into his arms. She quickly put the sofa between them, her face betraying the searing pain caused by his heartless proposition. This was the real Erik, the man behind the attractive exterior, behind the affected charm. Casey shuddered at the thought of being married to such a self-indulgent, insensitive person. It would have been far from the happy family life that she'd anticipated when she'd accepted his proposal of marriage. His betrayal and her own self-condemnation was overwhelming, a pain searing deep inside her being. Just how deeply embedded the hurt would go wouldn't be fully realized for some time. She clearly understood what he'd offered had nothing to do with love and probably never had. If he had, none of this would matter. What, if anything, remained of her feelings for him? She'd just wanted him to leave. Her need to be alone urgent. Slowly she removed the diamond and emerald ring, and with surprising calm, laid it on the small table next to the sofa. Taking a deep breath, standing tall in Callahan pride, she faced Erik. "I think you had better take your ring and just leave, Erik. And you can take your apartment and your empty promises with you." He stared at her, shocked by her refusal. No one dared to dismiss a Jefferies. "You know, I'm glad this happened. It makes me ill to think of being married to someone with so little regard for the feelings of others. If lack of consideration, deception and insincerity are the prerequisites to entrance into your life, then I'm far better off as a mere working girl. Paying my own way," she shouted at him. His face contorted with anger, Erik snatched up the ring. "I'll give you a few days to cool down, Casey. When
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you come to your senses, you'll see we do belong together. I'm in a position to give you things you will never be able to obtain on your own. I may even be able to forgive you for the horrendous things you've said about my family and friends." Ring in hand, he marched to the door. "That's all you think about, isn't it...things? What your precious money can buy. Well, it can't buy me! As for forgiveness, don't bother," she stormed at him. "The great and lordly Mr. Erik Jefferies just might consent to forgive me! I don't think so, Erik. Don't' bother calling. Ever!" His body rigid with anger, he stalked to the door, slamming out of the apartment. Three days later he phoned, or at least she assumed it was Erik. And several times over the next few weeks, he'd appeared at her door, but she refused to see him. During this time an impenetrable wall molded itself around her feelings, a defense, protection against future hurt. If she kept everyone at a distance, never let anyone become too important to her, she couldn't be hurt. Not again! It had still come as a shock to read the newspaper wedding announcement five weeks later, along with the Jefferies wedding pictures. It hadn't taken him long to find a replacement, one with breeding and an acceptable background. The past four years had matured Casey's prettiness into a radiant loveliness, with an unconscious graceful charm. Her soft laughing eyes and waist length silvery blond hair attracted more than her share of male attention. Any aloofness, a touch-me-not quality acted more of a lure than a deterrent. Casey dated, but it was just friendship. If anyone demonstrated signs of becoming serious, she backed off or simply ended the relationship. No serious involvement, that was her motto!
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Casey shook her head, mentally refusing to reflect any more on that portion of her life. It was over and done. It didn't merit any more attention. But this man next to her? Oh, God, what was she getting herself into? Nick had rescued her from what could have been a very unpleasant situation. But he was carrying things a little too far. She had to take some action. And soon. Nick's family would undoubtedly be appalled at his high handed methods. Yes! The glimmer of another idea took seed; tendrils of hope spreading as her imagination took flight. If she could locate an ally in his family, surely they would not want to see him saddled with a reluctant bride? Especially once they were made to realize what a rushed affair this would be. Why, if Nick had his way, they would be married within a week of meeting. No caring relative would be able to stand back and not try to talk some sense into him. With this new plan as a lifeline of comfort, Casey tried to settle back against the plush seat. For the first time since their departure from the air terminal, she looked at her surroundings. Her heart sank as a new concern reared its ugly head. Nick was obviously a wealthy man. No one owned a car like this and a driver if they didn't have loads of money. The cream colored car was large, with a soft warm tan leather interior. Even though the seat was wide, room to sit four easily, Nick sat close to her, his hard thigh pressed intimately against hers. Closing her mind to the feel of his powerful presence close to her side, the clean scent that was Nick, she tried to focus her attention on the passing scenery. The trees lining the streets were full and beautiful, just as in her books and brochures. The tallest trees stretched upwards to touch the sky, swaying in an invisible river of air. There were flowers everywhere, vivid reds, bright yellows, some of a softer, paler shade, soft and fragile, and various shades of pink to delight the artistic eye. The people of Greece were said to love the sun. And from the
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riot of color generated by this abundance of plants and trees, they must spend considerable time tending to their gardens. All too soon the car turned onto a private drive. Casey couldn't contain her gasp of pleasure at the sight of the huge green carpet of lawn, green and lush, obviously immaculately manicured at all times. It almost made her forget that her companion hadn't said a word in the last twenty minutes. While others might have found the silence comforting, Casey couldn't squelch the feeling that something wasn't right. Inwardly, she cringed. If the grounds were this grand, his home must be exceptional! To someone who considered herself as just plain old Casey, this setting, Nick's elegant home was positively terrifying. Most of her lack of confidence could be laid at Erik's door. Erik with his acid tongue and heartless remarks when he'd ended their engagement had left scars. And some scars went deep. Capturing her lower lip between her teeth, Casey turned to stare at Nick, all her doubts, and her fears evident in the trembling she couldn't control. She was way in over her head. Her large eyes pleaded with him for understanding. Nick studied her upturned face in silence for a moment. She was afraid and not just of him. He sensed something else behind the slight trembling of her soft, fragrant body to tantalizing close to his. "Surely you can see the necessity of continuing with our engagement? You are here on vacation, are you not?" She could only stare at his cool composure. He'd held her hands during the entire journey. They were warm hands, his fingers long and sinewy, and promising unleashed strength. But they would be gentle as they caressed a woman. Where had that thought come from? Get a grip, Casey admonished herself. Absently, she noted the dark hair at his thick wrist, with the band of an expensive gold watch meshed in the soft strands.
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Casey shifted her gaze to his face, locking hers with his penetrating stare. "Yes, I am on vacation. And I would really prefer to continue with it as planned." Do you really, a little voice chided. "Nick, I know you mean well, and I truly appreciate what you did for me back at the air terminal. I really do! But I have plans to rent a car so I can travel around your beautiful country. There is so much I planned to see. And once I leave Athens, there isn't any way Erik can track my movements." He frowned as he stared into her upturned face. How lovely she looked sitting so close to him, her bluegreen eyes like shimmering pools. Just a hint of tears making them shine even more. Sunlight streaming through the window made her hair glow with a brilliance he'd never seen before. She reminded him of a child waiting to hear of an all-important request would be granted or denied. But he had to deny what her eyes pleaded for. God help him, he had to keep her with him. "I agree it would difficult for Erik to follow you if you left Athens by car...no," he raised his free hand to silence her. "Please hear me out. First I do not like the idea of you traveling around the country on you own. Secondly, and perhaps selfishly on my part, your problem would be solved, but what of my problem? Unfortunately, it or should I say she, would remain here. I assure you, Angela can be as persistent as Erik." "I'm not a child, Nick. I've been on my own for a very long time now. And you...no one...has any control over what I do with my life. Look," choosing her words carefully because she didn't want to make him angry. She wasn't going to question why this was important. "As far as Angela is concerned, I'm sure you can make her understand you're not interested in a relationship. You certainly seem forceful enough, at least with me. You should be able to make her leave you alone without using me as a deterrent."
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"As you should know very well, some people are not impressed by words alone no matter how forcefully they are voiced. Your Erik is a good example." "He is not my Erik." But score one for Nick. What could she say? He was right about Erik. Suddenly, she felt selfish and ungrateful. He had come charging to her rescue, but when he needs her help, she'd rather leave than return the favor. When she remained silent, Nick continued. "There is something else I have deliberately not mentioned until now. It concerns my aunt. It has been Tia Louisa's wish for sometime now that I marry and start a family. She has been in poor health the past few months and I feel your being in my home as my fiancé will help her tremendously." Casey had to swallow twice to get past the lump in her throat. He was ignoring her wishes. He had no intention of letting her go! It felt as if a net were being drawn around her, silently but surely, its ends coming together, leaving her helpless to stop its closing. But did she really care? If she were completely honest with herself didn't she like being at Nick's side? Attracted by the comfort of the security he offered? To say nothing of the powerful attraction of the man himself? His long fingers gently stroked the pulse beating at her wrist. If he noted the rapid throbbing, he gave no outward indication. Her heart raced. Her fears of him stemmed from the reawakening of feelings some alien to her unexplored senses. Until now, passion had only been a word. But this man was making her feel. A part of her felt her desire for freedom begin to take a back seat to a stronger desire to explore these new sensations. Panic surged to the forefront of her mind, as this thought exploded into her mind. This was crazy! She couldn't let herself get involved with Nick and his family. It would create nothing but a disaster for all concerned. At all costs, she had to remember her place, and not let
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emotion cloud her vision. This would only leave her open to disappointment and pain. Somehow it would be much more devastating than her experience with Erik. Things were going too fast and too far. Once they reached the house, it would be more difficult, if not impossible, to make a graceful departure. She had no idea what his aunt would be like. Even so, the thought of deliberately deceiving an old woman went against her gentle nature. "Nick, you can't do this to your aunt. If we maintain an allusion of a real engagement, you'll just build up her hopes. And then, when we separate, what effect will this have on her? When I finally leave, won't that be a bigger disappointment for her? And if, as you say, her health is poor, the ending of our engagement could be very damaging." His full lips curved into a mouthwatering smile. "You seem quite concerned about someone you have yet to meet?" "Of course I'm concerned. I would never intentionally hurt anyone. What kind of a person do you think I am?" She had been hurt in the past. Some of it intentional and knew first hand the pain that kind of treatment could cause. She would not be the instrument to inflict this onto another person. He waved her concerns aside. "You will leave everything to me. And please believe me when I say, I want your happiness as much as my aunt's peace of mind. I would do nothing to hurt either of you." "Why? I mean, why should my happiness be of any concern to you? We're strangers." Nick was an enigma. One she found herself wanting to understand. And this brought forth another...why? Nick didn't answer immediately, his dark eyes burning deep into hers, caressing her on a level never before in her limited experience. He smiled. "Are we strangers, Little Bit? Don't you feel the ties drawing us
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together, feel the sense of belonging when we touch? One half recognizing its other half?" "That's nonsense," she admonished breathlessly. "Well, then, let's just say I have my reasons and leave it at that for the present." It was too soon to tell her how he felt. She would truly believe him to be a madman. No. He needed time to let her discover for herself they indeed do belong together. "Okay, be that way," Casey snapped. "But I have another question and I don't think you can brush this aside. How do you explain me to your family?" Her chin stuck out defying him to get around this obstacle. To her astonishment, he laughed. "You are my fiancé. What could be plainer than that?" Casey looked at him as if he had grown a second head. "And where have I been all this time? We have supposedly fallen in love and become engaged without any of them aware of my existence. I couldn't have just sprung out of thin air." The fact that that is exactly how this all began was something she chose to ignore. "Just how are you going to explain that?" confident she had an argument he couldn't refute. Her confidence slipped as he smiled. The smile she was beginning to recognize as his badge of assurance. "To appease my aunt, I have told her there is someone very special in my life. Someone very beautiful, gentle and intelligent. A young woman I have come to love. In other words, she believes my marriage could be very close." Casey was astounded. "How could you do that to an old lady? What were you planning to do? Go out and rent someone to play the part of some besotted, lovesick bride to be when your aunt insisted on a meeting?” Oh, if she was only bigger, or he was smaller. She'd try to shake some sense into him. But from the size of him, she couldn't even get her hands around his arms to do any good. "What my plans would have been do not concern you," he returned casually.
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Casey fumed. Didn't concern her! She'd been kidnapped, dragged away from her well-planned, long awaited vacation. And he had the nerve to say it was none of her business? "Is that so?" she ground out. "I'd like to know who it would concern then. My vacation has been totally interrupted. I'm sure to lose my hotel accommodations and the car I'd reserved. And you say it doesn't concern me. Ha!" "Fate has thrown us together. You are perfect for me. You need me. And my aunt will be deliriously happy with the situation. She will adore you on sight. And that is what matters right now." "I just don’t understand you," shaking her head in confusion. "Perhaps later, hmm?" Nick couldn't resist the temptation of her lips as he lowered his head, his mouth closing over hers, reveling in the sweet taste, the honey softness of her lips, the soft perfumed scent of her hair, the feel of her skin, so pale and soft compared to his. She was quickly becoming a drug, one he was determined to own. His and his alone. Nick forced himself to draw back from the kiss, leaving Casey feeling strangely bereft. For the first time in her life, her body tingled with the awareness of sexual desire. It frightened her as much as it bewildered her tender emotions. Casey stared at his mouth, now curved in a smile of satisfaction. He had to be the most infuriating, baffling man Casey had ever met. Obviously, he was a man used to getting his own way, in private and business matters. His wishes were undoubtedly obeyed with little, if any questioning. Who would dare to defy this big man...this despot? He had hauled her into his life and now he would be in for a taste of defiance if this charade went on for too long. He might just find out how independent and liberated Casey was and intended to stay.
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CHAPTER 6
Their car smoothly negotiated one last curve, cruising to a halt in front of the most beautiful house Casey had ever seen. Delicate yellow flowers danced against a backdrop of green shrubs lining the wide walkway from the
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circular drive to the front entrance. The house was two stories with mammoth columns supporting the roof over the entrance. Nick held tightly to Casey's hand as he swept her up the wide steps. One of the double doors opened as an older woman emerged from the interior. She stood with her arms folded across her ample chest, her dark brown dress with dark stockings doing nothing to relieve the stern harshness of her features. Gray hair sprinkled with black from younger years was styled as severely as the look she directed at Casey. Her black eyes were clear and alert as she watched the younger pair approach. Casey's hopes shriveled. If this was his aunt, she looked to be as unapproachable as Erik was understanding. So much for relying on help from this quarter. As they drew abreast of this austere woman, Nick released Casey's hand. He reached out, putting his massive arms around the older woman. He literally lifted her off the ground as he swung her around. He spoke rapidly in Greek and whatever he said brought a smile to her face, altering it considerably. While she did not smile broadly, her thin lips crinkled slightly at the corners, a softness replacing the harshness in her eyes from just seconds ago. Much to Nick's obvious approval, she nodded several times to his questions. Pleased with her answers, he once again drew Casey to his side. "Casey, this is Rosa, our housekeeper. She has been with my family as long I can remember and knows me and my moods better than anyone." "Hello, Rosa. You must be a treasure to put up with Nick!" She was surprised by the gentleness in Rosa's black eyes as she acknowledged the introduction. How could Casey have thought this woman cold? "He is only Nicholas," as if that explained everything. Rose spoke with a heavy accent, but Casey had no trouble understanding her. "Rosa, is not my Casey as beautiful as I described her?"
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"She is indeed lovely, Nicholas. Welcome home, Miss Casey. May you receive much happiness in your marriage." "Thank you, Rosa," Casey replied. What could she say? She couldn't cause a scene here on the doorstep. Obviously Rosa thought their engagement to be real. Damn Nick! She experienced the greatest urge to glare at him but couldn't under the circumstances. Not now, but soon! Oh, she would have plenty to say to him later. If she could get him alone for ten minutes. This entire situation was becoming more confusing by the minute. It was as if she had actually been expected. And not just since their unforeseen meeting at the airport. She knew that he had undoubtedly alerted the household when he had Yannis make that phone call. But that didn't quite explain the feeling of more than being an unexpected guest. "Now, you come. Kiria Louisa is anxiously waiting to greet you." The older woman stood aside as Nick propelled Casey across the threshold. Casey gasped in pleasure at the sheer beauty of Nick's home. The foyer was huge with a grand, circular staircase to the far right of the entrance. Two steps led down to the rest of the house. If she was correct, all the books seen through the open door on her left indicated that was a den or library. Directly ahead was the main salon. Casey stood in mute admiration of these magnificent surroundings as Nick quickly spoke with Rosa. Then her attention was diverted to Yannis as he carried her bags in from the car, and without stopping, walked straight up the winding staircase. She worried her bottom lip. So much for a quick getaway. Since she had no idea where her things were being taken, she would have to brazen out this situation Nick had gotten them into. Maybe later she might find a friend in the household, someone who would understand and sympathize with her current predicament. There was no chance of help from Yannis or Rosa. But she could always hope.
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The sound of Nick's deep voice drew her attention back to the tall, dark commanding man standing close by her side. "Well, little bit, my home is not the prison you envisioned, I hope?" "You know very well it’s absolutely beautiful. I'm just not used to this type of lifestyle. I feel so out of my element." How could she make him understand how inadequate she felt surrounded by all this luxury? True, his home was spectacular, at least the small portion she had glimpsed so far, but there was warmth that spoke of home, comfort. But she had to remember this was Nick's home. Not hers and never could be. One dark brow raised in question to her reply. "On the contrary, you are a beautiful young woman and I find my home a perfect setting for your loveliness. Once you become familiar with the entire house, your uneasiness will vanish." "You don't understand. I'm just a plain working girl. My apartment building is not much larger than your entire house. I don't belong here." Unconsciously her hand rested on his arm, an unspoken plea to forget this charade and let her go. "You will have to become accustomed to my taking care of you, little bit." As usual, he ignored her, waving aside her declarations as of no consequence. "And now, Tia Louisa is waiting for us in the solarium." Giving her no time to reply, with a strong arm around her trembling shoulders, he urged her towards the salon. "Normally, I would give you time to freshen up after such a tiring journey, but I think you are nervous enough about this meeting without delaying it any longer. The sooner you meet my aunt and see her for yourself, you'll be able to relax and enjoy yourself." The solarium, on the far side of the main salon, was constructed entirely of glass...walls and ceiling. The white furniture, chairs, tables, sofa and lamps, were nestled in an interior jungle of plants of all shapes, sizes and shades of green. It was breathtaking!
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After her first impression of the room, her attention focused on the woman, embroidery in hand, sitting on the sofa. She was a small attractive woman, undoubtedly very beautiful in her younger years. From the little Nick had told her, Casey guessed her age to be in her seventies, but this woman looked years younger. She was small and slender, with a remarkably clear complexion with only faint lines to give any hint of age. Her white hair she wore in a loose style reflecting a touch of the Victorian age, a most becoming combination with her expert use of makeup. His aunt was the epitome of elegance and warmth. Casey liked her on sight. She felt that net drawing in around her more closely, recognized she would not be able to live with herself if she were responsible for disappointing or hurting this woman. "Ah, Nicholas. You have finally arrived. I was beginning to believe you had run off with this young woman and were going to keep her all to yourself." Nick's smile as he leaned over to lift Louisa's hands to his lips produced a strange fluttering to Casey's heart. It was obvious how much he adored his aunt. "Tia Louisa, I would never do that knowing how much you have longed for this moment. But I must admit the temptation was there." Casey felt her face redden. What he suggested implied an intimacy they had not shared. But one she was seriously wondering about for the first time in her life. Feelings like these were definitely hazardous to her peace of mind. Nick held out his hand for Casey to come close to his side. "Casey Colleen Callahan, this is my Tia Louisa who has been my mother and my comfort, whose wisdom and counsel I have learned to admire and respect. I am still learning from her." "Casey, it is so good to meet you at last. Nick had told us so much about you. Oh, Nicholas, she is just as lovely as you have claimed in all your rantings. Naturally,
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we thought he was exaggerating your beauty as men in love tend to do." What could he possible have told them since they had met only a matter of hours ago? Casey smiled. "You're very kind, Madame Santos." "What is this Madame Santos? In one week you will officially be a member of our family. I insist that from this second you address me as Tia Louisa. It will give me great pleasure." Placing her sewing on the table, she patted the vacated cushion beside her. "Come. Sit next to me." "Don't let Casey's mild manner and sudden quietness deceive you. Underneath this tranquil surface is quite a temper when the situation drives it to the limit." Nick watched her intently, no doubt waiting to pounce if she made any move to deny their relationship. "I've never been accused of being quiet before. If anything, I tend to become a chatterbox when I'm nervous. Which I am right now. All of this," a sweep of her arm indicating the room, "is new to me. I feel quite out of my element." With an understanding smile, Louisa patted Casey's hands, as they lay clenched on her lap. "You must relax, my dear. And you will once we have had a chance to become better acquainted. Nicholas, why don't you leave us alone to talk? I'm sure there are pressing details concerning the wedding or your work that need your immediate attention? I want to talk to Casey in private. We women are more at ease and open with one another without an eavesdropping male around." She winked at a dumbfounded Casey. Casey couldn't prevent a grin at the disgruntled expression on Nick's face, then bit her lip to keep from laughing out loud. Clearly he was reluctant to leave them alone, but obviously he had no convincing argument against his aunt's request. He stood looking down at the two women, his indecision apparent.
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Suddenly a smile softened his features. "I shall be in the library if you need me." His departing look at Casey was a warning. Confess to Louisa the falseness of their engagement and she would answer to him. Something told her Nick would be a trusted friend, but as an enemy, he would be formidable. Once Nick had left the room, Louisa turned her full attention back to Casey, her clear gray eyes gentle with understanding. "Now that Nicholas is not here to intimidate us, we can talk freely. I am a protective old woman who desperately wants what is best for him, what will make him happy in his private life. Oh, he has work that fascinates him which has left him financially secure. But he needs someone to share his life with, to center him with a love and a family. You have no idea how pleased I am that he has chosen you to be his wife." Louisa cocked her head to one side studying Casey, smiling with delight. "I could not have done better had I picked you myself." "Oh, Tia Louisa. I don't know what to say. This has all been so sudden." At least that much was true. "Nick and I really haven't know each other all that long. And I didn't know what to expect when I arrived here." Again the truth. "Give it time, child. Whenever anyone enters into marriage, there are numerous adjustments to be made by each of the individuals involved. And in your case, these adjustments are more pronounced. Not only will you have a new husband to take care of you, you'll be making your home in a different country." As Louisa spoke, Casey realized her accent was not Greek, but English. "You weren't born in Greece either?" "No. I was born and grew up in England. Just outside London actually." Her eyes were bright with remembrance, sparked with mischief as she recalled her earlier years.
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"I met Dimitri Santos in London at a dinner party. He was there on family business of some sort or another, and literally swept me off my feet." It must run in the family, Casey thought ruefully. "We were married and on our way to Athens before I had a chance to catch my breath. And I've never had any reason to regret our hasty marriage. He's been gone almost ten years now, and I still miss him terribly. But enough of that. It's you and Nicholas who are beginning a new life together." "But...but if you didn't know each other very well...I mean it takes time to get to know another person. Their likes and moods...interests you have in common. Beliefs. Goals you hope to achieve during your life." Casey knew she couldn't be making much sense. There didn't seem to be a way to word her doubts without arousing his aunt's suspicions. "How boring it would be if we knew absolutely everything about our marriage partner before the ceremony. The little surprises or bits and pieces of our lives we share as time goes by, this is how knowledge of one another is imparted and shared. Which would be more exciting, reading a biography of your spouse to be, or acquiring and understanding gradually by sharing?" "I guess I haven't given it much thought. Until now, that is," she quickly amended. "It is such a big step. And you see I've always been pretty much on my own. I'm not used to being responsible to or for another person," a sigh mirrored the distress in her voice. These exquisite surroundings were not helping her think clearly, or easing her mind. "Casey, will you trust me and listen to someone who has seen many years come and go, certainly more than I care to admit to? Nicholas must love you very much to rush you into marriage like this. It is simply not in his nature to make rash or hasty decisions, especially ones with such a personal commitment. And make no mistake. With Nicholas, marriage will be a permanent commitment."
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Casey's eyes widened in astonishment. "I see much more than I let on, my dear. Your trepidation at meeting me was more than just the usual jitters." "I...Nick is a wonderful man," Casey stammered and found she meant it. She wondered if he was aware of how much his aunt suspected. She would talk with him as soon as possible. Maybe this entire episode could be resolved sooner than she'd previously anticipated or hoped. And she was not disappointed. No she was not! "Greek men can be stubborn, dictatorial and, if the situation calls for it, even vengeful. But they have other qualities that cancel out all the less pleasant traits. Most are dedicated to family, and when he truly loves, that woman will be cherished, protected and indulged like no other." Casey didn't have to ask if Louisa's marriage to Dimitri had been just such a marriage. The warmth in her eyes made it obvious she was thinking of her own late husband. Louisa took Casey's trembling hand in hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I know this is the way Nicholas loves you, and for this reason, I give you my blessing. There will be time for him to teach you about love after you're married. And perhaps I am being a little selfish. I have raised him since he was twelve years old. Now I long to hold his son in my arms before I die. Does that sound too self-indulgent or callous?" "Oh, Louisa, no! It's s natural for you to want to see him happy. And I know how much children and family mean to people in this country. Especially having a son to carry on the family name and business." Unbidden, a mental picture took shape in Casey's mind of Nick's son. A baby with black hair and eyes dark like his father. A small bundle to hold close and love. Louisa's beatific smile was Casey's undoing. How could she say anything now to destroy his aunt's happiness about their impending marriage? Instead she forced herself
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to smile as Louisa continued. "I'm so happy to hear you understand. I know Nicholas will make a marvelous husband for you and a wonderful father for your children. And I have no doubt, you are going to be the perfect mother for his children." She smiled as if the child were an accomplished fact instead of a fond wish What could Casey say? I'm sorry but this is all a hoax. Or sorry, but Nick and I have only really known each other for a few hours. Instead she muttered, “thank you, I...," feeling a blush under her skin. The making of babies implied an intimacy she'd never shared with a man. And never could. Still this new enticing image of Nick's son intensified the flush of her now warm cheeks.
HAPTER 7
Lying in the spectacular white canopied bed later that night, Casey finally had time to review the events of the day; the startling changes thrust into her life since
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innocently boarding the flight from Rome. Souvenirs she'd planned taking home...but a husband was quite a drastic purchase, one she most certainly had not contemplated. If she had any complaints about her forced captivity, those would not include her room. It was wonderful! The walls an ocean of pale blue as was the ceiling, the continuing sea only broken by the white molding around the top of the walls. The plush carpet, a shade darker than the walls, matched the cover on the window seat and the overstuffed chairs. Everything else in the room was white, bed, dressers and bookcases. Her meager wardrobe now hung in all its plain glory in the unbelievably huge walk-in closet. The fact her clothes had been unpacked, unfortunately, indicated a stay of at least several days. Casey grimaced as she contemplated the contents of the closet. Since she'd planned being on the road the greater portion of this trip, her clothing had been chosen for their practicality, a collection definitely lacking for someone who was to be initiated into Nick's social circle. Slacks, jeans and casual shirts made up her choices. The only concessions to formality were two long dresses for evening and one skirt and dressy blouse for daytime. One of the gowns had been chosen for comfort. It was a purple caftan with elaborate embroidery decorating the entire gown. It might not be alluring but at least it covered her from head to toe. Unfortunately, this had been her choice tonight. From the expression on Nick's face as she'd descended the stairs earlier this evening, it was safe to assume purple was not his favorite color. Her long hair she'd worn pulled back in a severe knot at her nape, no jewelry save for the tiny gold studs in her ears and the long, heavy folds of the caftan hid any feminine curves. She'd been uneasy leaving the sanctuary of her room, but the night had turned out most enjoyable even with Nick scowling at her from behind
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his quiet manner. Somehow she'd even managed to relax and enjoy Louisa's company after dinner. And Louisa was absolutely wonderful. Casey found herself admiring the older woman more than was wise considering the situation. Nick had been surprisingly quiet most of the evening, relinquishing conversation to the two women. Instead of talking, he'd spent most of his time staring at Casey that meant their eyes met whenever her gaze wandered in his direction. She'd been the one to look away first. Damn the man! He saw too much. Very little was said concerning the bogus engagement, which made Casey somewhat uneasy. But for this one evening anyway, she'd been content to leave the subject hidden away or at least tucked out of sight for a few hours. The only real words she'd had with Nick had been when he'd insisted on walking her to her room. She'd sensed his anger smoldering just below the surface as they'd walked up the winding staircase. For the life of her, she couldn't think of what she'd said during the evening to upset him. As it turned out, it was not something she'd said. It was something entirely different. Stopping at her door, he asked softly. "Would you mind telling me what you hoped to accomplish tonight in this get up?" his quiet harshness startling her as she'd looked up at him questioningly. Then she let anger take over. "I'm sorry you don't like my dress, but I did warn you that I don't fit in here. I come from a totally different background and am not up on the do's and don'ts of the rich," she said her small chin held high in defiance. "You're right about one thing, I don't like that...that voluminous monstrosity you're wearing. You are unbelievably beautiful and much too feminine to hide inside such gruesome attire. See that it is disposed of tomorrow. I wouldn't like to see you wearing it again!"
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"Is that an order, my lord?" How dare he order her around like that? He had no right to dictate what she would or would not wear. "If you wish to regard my request as such, then by all means. But if I am not mistaken, there is more to this disguise. Why do you hide your beauty?" "I am not hiding. And I wish you would stop with these phony compliments. I prefer to dress for comfort rather than decoration. A lot of people do, you know." Why was her heart racing? He seemed to know, sense things about her without her saying a word. A small part of her pulsed with delight at the chance he did find her attractive. She didn't know why this was important and refused to admit it openly to herself. But it didn't reduce the thrill of his words. He studied her quietly for several seconds, his large hand lifting to trace a sensuous path from her temple to her chin. "I do not say things I do not mean, little bit. You are beautiful! And now you have nothing to fear from other men. You belong to me, are under my protection. So, there is no reason you cannot wear comfortable clothing that is also pleasing to the eye." "Oh, you..." Before she could respond he’d pushed open the door to her bedroom, ushering her inside. Then he was leaning back against the door pulling her up against his long hard length. She looked up to complain but his mouth silenced anything she might have said. The warm haven of his embrace and the gentle coaxing of his lips was her undoing. Her lips parted on a breath of surrender as he deepened the kiss. Wrapping her arms around his neck Casey pressed closer. She was completely unaware of being picked up until she was lowered to the bed with Nick coming down beside her. Their kiss had been so wonderful that she hadn’t wanted it to end. Now she just looked up at him as he leaned over her. Her mind was awash with questions about what she was inviting by not pushing him away or insisting that he
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leave her room immediately. But the feelings he aroused in her were so new and astounding that she was reluctant to break the spell. Nick studied her upturned face. She was so open, so natural in everything she said and did. He had to admit that most of the women in his past had paid homage to his every whim, agreeing with him or going along with his wishes because of who he was and what he could give them. Casey was different. She wasn’t impressed with his position or wealth. Quite the opposite in fact. She seemed intimidated by it instead. Nick lowered his head to gently nibble on her lower lip. “You taste of after dinner sweets and wine,” he murmured against her lips. “Nick, I…” was all she said before arching up to press her mouth to his. Nick moved one long leg over her body as he pressed closer to her. His mouth opened over hers, his tongue tasting and teasing her lips before delving in for a proper tasting. Her tongue met his, sliding along the sides and underneath. He felt himself harden at her sweet response and groaned in sweet agony. The pressure of Nick’s body pressing her down against the mattress was a pleasure she’d never experienced. The weight of his heavy leg across hers, the feel of his large body pinning her to the bed created a tightening inside her, a delicious feeling she’d never imagined and didn’t want to lose. She wound her arms more tightly around his neck surrendering to the sensations Nick was creating. Nick was quickly losing control as his mouth moved over Casey’s. When he moved down to taste the soft column of her throat, her sigh of pleasure almost drove him over the edge. It was the sound of her door opening followed by a discreet cough that pulled him back to reality. He’d been lying with his back to the door. Now he rolled over to face Tia Louisa as she scowled down at him.
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“I did knock,” she said by way of explanation. “I think it would be best if you went to your own room now, Nicholas.” “I had not planned to spend the night here, Tia,” he tried explaining. “Planned? No. But circumstances sometimes do get out of control. You only have a few more days until your wedding. I will expect you to exert enough control to wait until then,” Tia said trying to sound reproving. But she was more than delighted with this turn of events. Casey was obviously responding to Nick’s attentions with abandon. Somehow Louisa knew this was a unique experience for this innocent young women. Casey was mortified. She would have thrown something at Nick if there had been something within reach and heavy enough to do some damage. What must Tia think of her? In all honesty she couldn’t put all the blame on him. She’d been clinging to him like ivy to a stone wall. “Rest easy, Tia. I’m leaving.” Bending over the bed he smiled at Casey. “I'll see you in the morning." Lowering his head, his lips gently stroked hers sending tendrils of delight through her body. Then he disappeared out the door and down the hall before she could utter one more word leaving her to face Tia alone. She scooted over to sit on the side of the bed at a loss at what to say. “Don’t look so distraught, child,” Tia said coming to stand in front of her. She cupped Casey’s chin in her hand forcing her to look up at the older woman. “I’m not angry. I just like to make Nick think I still have some measure of control over his actions. But I must admit that after this, I’m truly relieved that your wedding is only days away. And I have a feeling Nick is thinking the same thing at this very moment.” Her eyes shone with merriment. “Why does he have this effect on me? I lose all perspective when he’s around. I didn’t ask him in here. It…just happened. I’m not really sure how,” she said shaking her head.
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Tia chuckled. “Love has a way of doing that to you. I was that way with my Dimitri,” she confessed her face alit with fond remembrances. “Now, you go to sleep and don’t worry about a thing. You and Nick are going to be happy. You’ll see.” Now, two hours later, sleep remained elusive as Casey tried not to think of Nick. Ha! The harder she tried to block him from her mind, the more vivid he became. The sensations aroused by his touch came flooding back to warm her body anew. It was so warm, she angrily threw back the covers. Nick’s whole attitude was one of...of ownership. Why did that particular word work its way into her mind? What was it he'd said? You belong to me. Well, just because he had done her an enormous favor didn't give him lifetime rights. She'd been passive because of Louisa. But tomorrow she would have to make things perfectly clear to Nick, in words he would have to understand. Together they would have to explain everything to his aunt. How they would explain that scene in her bedroom she didn’t want to think about. Having settled that issue in her mind, she smiled to herself as she turned over in the big bed, giving the pillow a savage punch, wishing it were Erik instead. If he hadn't trailed after her, none of this would have happened. It was all his fault! But of course, she couldn't tell Erik that. If there was one thing she and Nick did agree about, it was not letting Erik or Angela in on their little secret. Maybe she should wait until after the dinner party before leaving Nick's home. If Erik actually saw her here with Nick, in his home, perhaps it would be what she needed to convince him to move on and leave her alone. Yes! Maybe that would be the best course of action. Confident she had a plan, Casey settled down, determined to go to sleep. In a few days at most, she would be on her way once more, free to see Greece as she had planned. And possibly have a good laugh when this was all over. It
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would certainly be something to tell her children and grandchildren about. Suddenly, another picture swam before her minds eye, a picture of babies with thick dark hair and deep brown eyes. Minutes later, Casey was still wide-awake, staring into the darkness, sleep still an elusive state. What was wrong with her? She should feel elated at the thought of being on her own again. Not experiencing this curious emptiness at the thought of not seeing Nick or Tia Louisa. Rational, sensible people didn't suffer desolation just at the prospect of leaving a new acquaintance. And that was what Nick was. Just someone she'd met today. It was ridiculous. Love at first sight was something out of romantic novels. It wasn't a reality. Could it? Besides, who was talking about love? Sure she responded to him when he kissed her but that wasn’t love. Well, if she was going to be honest with herself, all he had to do was walk into the room for her hormones to go haywire. But that still wasn’t love. Casey grudgingly admitted to herself that Nick possessed a rugged attractiveness that was terribly magnetic. Okay, so he was magnificent. So he was tall and muscular, big as a mountain compared to her. He was the usual type most girls dreamed about at one time or another in their lives. But she had never been one for frequent day dreaming. Always too busy. Too many things to do just to survive. Nick was also extremely domineering; a man used to giving orders, and having them carried out to the letter. Not a man to cross, she was sure. She and Nick would make quite a pair, about like oil and water, she thought not without humor. She was used to independence and he was used to being in command, the decision-maker. She hadn't exaggerated when she'd confessed to Tia Louisa that she'd never been responsible or answerable to anyone, not even as a small child. Her mother had died before Casey reached her first birthday. Her father, John
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Callahan, had remarried within six months to a woman who was not exactly the motherly type. Tragedy struck again before Casey's third birthday when her father died suddenly leaving her in the care of her stepmother. Perhaps because Maggie had not been, in any sense of the word, maternal, she had been at a loss how to bring up a child. In more ways than one, Maggie had not been a responsible adult role model. She and Casey avoided each other as much as possible, which seemed to work well for each of them. It certainly left Maggie unencumbered by not having Casey always underfoot. Casey learned early to go home only when absolutely necessary to avoid the usual bickering whenever she and Maggie were in the same apartment. Maggie generally slept most of the day and partied until dawn. Work had been something alien to her makeup; she'd had no intention of being dragged into the labor force. Why should she? There had always been someone around to help pay the rent or buy a few groceries now and then. Casey sighed as she recalled the long line of men who had tramped in and out of their small, bleak apartment. Some of them she'd been instructed to call uncle, but more often than not, they'd been faces with no names and didn't hang around more than a day or so. Casey had been a very grown up five years old when one of her neighbors gave her an old shoeshine kit. It might have been junk to them, but to little pigtailed Casey Callahan, it had been a good luck piece, turning her young life into something with purpose. Something she could take pride in. First she'd d worked shining shoes, and done a pretty good job for someone so young. Later she'd delivered packages for a local, mom and pop grocery. In her neighborhood, you didn't intrude upon the lives of the people around you. If anyone had felt sorry for her, they kept it to themselves, but did what they could in little ways...inviting her to dinner or asking her to do some small
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job. Then they could pay her for a job well done leaving her pride intact. Casey shook her head as if the movement would erase those images from her past. She stretched her body trying to get comfortable; the soft sheets were cool against her warm skin. These memories were leading closer to that horrifying episode, a time she had never shared with anyone. Her reluctance to examine that time bore down on her as a heavy weight pinning her to the bed. No! she reminded herself. You don't depend on anyone but yourself. Maggie had walked out of her life when Casey was sixteen, left with Ben...no last name, just a face that never failed to spawn a mental collage with the feel, smell and touch of him uncomfortably real. A terror that still had the power to haunt her today. But she wouldn't think about that, that...No, not when she was on holiday. But Nick was different a small voice whispered. Somehow she knew, some instinct allowed her to believe that he was different from the others in her past. Her past was a painful time leaving her vulnerable, afraid to trust any portion of her life to another person. Twice she'd been terribly hurt and disillusioned. Now she sternly lectured herself on the merits of avoiding any intense relationships. She did not belong here. She was a plain working girl who must not lose sight of that fact. She twisted onto her side, staring out the window. Casey couldn't deny Nicks barging into her life had rendered her vulnerable with his power to arouse her as no man ever had. Not only was she distinctly aware of him sexually, but in every way. He made her so mad, but then... If she were honest, she had to admit to an unfamiliar feeling or admiration and pride in being at his side. The feel of his hard thigh against hers in the car had been distracting, a contact she liked. But she shouldn't be thinking about this. These thoughts were getting her nowhere. If she examined her
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feelings too closely, she was afraid of the changes they might bring. But try as hard as she could, Nick would not get out of her mind, her thoughts dwelling on his quiet strength; her mind picturing his powerful masculine body as he moved with panther-like grace across a room. What would it be like to have those huge hands touch her as no man ever had? To lie naked against his hard muscled body. To have him... After a restless hour of kicking the bedding around until it landed softly on the floor, Casey finally gave up all pretenses at sleep. She sat up untangling the soft blue sheet from around her bare legs. She'd be better off up moving around than lying in that bed and thinking. She'd never had such thoughts about any man before. Not even Erik. And she'd been engaged to him, unfortunately. What was the matter with her? She must be coming down with something. That was it! Maybe she was feverish. Okay, so she was grasping at straws to explain this attraction to Nick. Maybe if she could take a quiet walk in the garden it would relax her enough so she could get some sleep. "Damn you, Nick Santos! Why did you have to turn up in my life?” she muttered crossly as she slipped her slender arms into a long navy blue cotton robe. She slipped into matching slippers before walking across the room to the glass doors. She had her own balcony with stairs leading down to the garden below. From there it was just a few steps to the huge swimming pool. Quietly she closed the double glass doors behind her. Just standing outside was wonderful. She drank in the perfume of the night. It was peaceful and quiet. The moon was not full, but shone with enough light for her to distinguish the beauty of the landscape below. Yes! This was much better than tossing in that big old empty bed. There were flowers everywhere she looked, meticulously sculptured green shrubs, wildly flowering shrubs, and a rainbow of flowering plants to delight Casey's sense of natures beauty. This had to be Louisa's handiwork. According to Nick, his aunt’s green thumb was
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well known. He'd teased her during dinner, claiming if they were to turn a desert over to her loving care, she'd have it green and blooming within months. He had the older woman blushing, but obviously delighted by his compliment. Now, Casey's small slippered feet left only a soft whisper behind as she quickly ran down the stone steps. Nick had mentioned a small lake just a short distance from the house. If she were correct, it should be beyond this immense expanse of lawn, just on the other side of the thicket of popular and pine trees. Her spirit of adventure cried out for action. And since she couldn't sleep anyway, she might as well put this time to good use. She would explore the lake. Soundlessly, she almost floated across the lawn, the skirt of her robe swaying a she headed for the trees. The urge to walk barefoot through the velvet grass was too strong to resist. Stopping only long enough to remove her slippers, she sighed as her bare beet touched the ground. The grass was as soft as she'd imagined it would be. Night had not yet deposited its nocturnal abundance of dew. It felt cool and refreshing beneath her feet. When she reached the center of the lush lawn, a sense of freedom wrapped her in a blanket of contentment where nothing mattered except the silence and tranquillity of the moment. Casey stretched her arms up, reaching for the stars as she breathed in the fresh fragrance of the gardens, twirling in a circle, savoring the fantasy-like quality of the surroundings. The sky was so clear the stars appeared to be within arms reach. How lovely it would be to unroll a sleeping bag and be able to fall asleep under this black velvet canopy dotted with myriad stars. Casey giggled at the picture if the household were to find her asleep in the middle of their lawn. It might be worth it just to see the look on Nick's face, she pondered gleefully. Drawing nearer to the thicket of trees, the shimmering light from the moon dimmed, the heavy foliage blocking out the comforting light. But the
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path was still visible through the trees, a trail not completely shrouded in darkness but still a bit unnerving. Well, she had a choice. She could go back to bed and punch the pillow until the wee hours of the morning, or continue on with her midnight adventure. Not one to skirt around a challenge, Casey squared her slender shoulders mustering a good dose of courage, donned her slippers once again before warily walking down the narrow path in front of her. The path was worn from constant usage, the over hanging branches trimmed for easy passage. As she emerged from the path onto a clearing where the light from the moon was much brighter, she gasped in delight. The green carpet of grass merged with pearl white sand sparkling in the moonlight. The moon's reflection shimmered eerily in the dark water casting a lighted trail from the sand to the middle of the lake. The beach was enchantingly orchestrated with picnic tables, lawn chairs and chaise lounges, some arranged for conversation, others for solitude. Quickly stepping out of her slippers, she raced to the edge of the water where sand was a powder beneath her feet and felt deliciously cool to the touch. A slight breeze stirred small waves against the sand, creating a calm, lapping sound as they washed up onto the shore. Casey pulled her long robe above her knees eagerly wading ankle deep in the refreshing, cool water. It would be heaven to swim in this paradise. She removed the cumbersome robe giving her the freedom to wade to her hearts content. She wore only an oversized tee shirt, her usual sleeping apparel, but because of the time of night, she felt there wouldn't be anyone to witness her aquatic antics. And if she got a little wet, no one would know. She would be sure to check with Louisa in the morning just to be sure that she had the freedom to use this part of the grounds. Morning! The thought of what the morning would bring made her frown, dissolving her smile. She sighed.
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Nick couldn't sleep. All he could think of was Casey, just down the hall. His tall naked muscular body was taut as a bowstring from frustration as he padded to the window. He'd yearned to find her since that day at the airport in Rome. She'd invaded his dreams at night and distracted him during his waking hours. Now, she was here, in his home, just down the hall. And if all went as he'd planned, she would become his wife on Friday. Nick was not a patient man and recognized that this failing did not make the waiting any easier. Hell, he wanted to walk down the hall, take her into his arms and make love to her until she cried out for him, only him. He rubbed his eyes. Of course he couldn't do that, not with his aunt just a few doors away. Besides.... "What the hell..." he blinked as Casey appeared on the lawn below. His first thought was that she was running away. But then he realized she was wearing a bathrobe. What was she doing down there? And where did she think she was going? In seconds, he pulled on a pair of forest green running shorts and was letting himself out onto the terrace. Nick crossed the lawn, followed the path through the trees Casey had walked minutes earlier. On the other side, he stood in the shadows watching as she cavorted on the water's edge. She was a petite water nymph, her glorious white-gold hair in a braid down to her waist. She wasn't tall, but she was perfectly proportioned, the legs peeking out from the under the oversized shirt she wore were slim, silky and lightly tanned. He continued to watch as she left the water. Casey strolled from the water across the sandy beach to a large double chaise. Sitting down she arched her small shapely body as she reclined, innocently unaware of the sensuous movements. She stared up at the sky amazed at the number of stars. Why did there seem to be more than back home? This made her think of Orion the Hunter, which led her thoughts to Nick. He was a puzzle to her. He obviously cared a great deal for his aunt, apparently
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ready to go to almost any lengths to make her happy. Would he do that for any other special woman in his life? She had the feeling he would. He was just that type of man. She caught movement out the corner of her eye, stifling a gasp as the object of her thoughts stepped from the shadows. Oh my, she thought. Fully clothed he presented a formidable masculine presence. But dressed in only a pair of running shorts he was breathtaking. His broad chest was lightly dusted with dark hair that narrowed down to disappear beneath the top of his shorts. He had beautiful legs, long and thick, covered with dark hair. He stepped closer to the chaise. “Couldn’t you sleep either?” he asked huskily. “No. Strange bed I guess,” she admitted. “Me either. Do you mind if I join you?” Not waiting for her answer he lay beside her on the chaise. “Nick, I don’t think….” was as far as she got before he leaned over her his lips swallowing the rest of her words. His large hands on either side of her head held her still beneath his plundering mouth. If he had been demanding or brutal she might have been able to resist. But his mouth worshipped hers, his teeth nipping at her lower lip encouraging her to open her mouth. The moment she did, he deepened the kiss, his tongue exploring, caressing hers. She wrapped her arms around his neck trying to draw him closer. Nick was the one who broke the kiss. He groaned as he rested his forehead against hers. When he made love to her it was going to be in private, not out in the open on a chaise lounge of all things. What was the matter with him? He was acting like a young kid. He raised up to look at Casey. Her eyes were wide as she stared up at him. She licked her lips, which elicited another groan from Nick. “Don’t do that,” he ordered huskily. “I don’t…”
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“I think we had better get back inside before I do something you will end up hating me for,” he said standing up beside the chair. He reached out a hand to help her up. Casey stared at his large tanned hand several seconds. Ignoring it, she scooted off the lounge on the opposite side. “That kiss should not have happened. It’s not as if this engagement is real.” “It could be real if you would let it,” he said softly. Casey was at a loss. She had never been this unsettled just by being near a man in her life. It was just the opposite. Nick was too big, too masculine and too bossy for her to feel comfortable around. Well, it sounded good when she thought about it. But it still didn’t explain her reaction to that kiss. Lord, she had even wrapped her arms around his neck inviting more. Her cheeks burned with the memory. “I think I’ll go to bed now,” she stated firmly, grabbing her robe in an effort to add more shielding around her. “I’ll walk with you.” “No!” she all but yelled. “I mean, I’ll walk you to your door. Rest easy, little bit. Friday is not that far away. I prefer to wait until after the wedding.” Try convincing yourself of that, he thought to himself. “There is not going to be any wedding. And no more kissing!” Casey turned and fled back down the path to the house. She heard Nick behind her and hastened her steps to get to her room and lock the door. But he stayed a short distance behind. When she reached her room, she entered and closed the door, the click of the lock sounding loud in the quiet room. Nick waved as he passed her door and entered his own room. She heaved a sigh of relief. What had she gotten herself into? She threw off her robe and climbed back into bed. It was either the night air or the late hour or both, but soon she was fast asleep.
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Nick was not so lucky. He took a long cold shower before he tried to get back to sleep. When he did finally sleep it was to dream of a beautiful woman in a magnificent wedding gown.
CHAPTER 8
It was the presence of someone in her room opening the drapes that woke Casey from a troubled sleep. The glorious sunshine streaming in through the windows seemed to bring the room to life. Even as tired as she was, these golden rays made Casey smile. She was in Greece.
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Then she looked around the room and her smile faded. Nick! Rosa padded over to the bed, placing a frosted glass of orange juice on the nightstand. “Good morning. I hope you slept well.” “Just fine,” Casey said lightly. “What time is it?” “It is just past nine.” Seeing the astonished look on Casey’s face, Rosa hurried to reassure her. “Nicholas said not to disturb you on your first day home.” “Oh, but I never sleep this late. Really!” She didn’t know why it was important that Rosa not think she was someone pampered or spoiled. And why did Rosa refer to this as her home? She shook her head trying to clear the sleep. “You take your time. When you are dressed, breakfast is on the patio.” "Thank you, Rosa. You’re very kind.” The older woman bowed her head as she closed the bedroom door behind her. Casey took a quick shower and felt somewhat better. Then she searched through her closet for something to wear. She didn’t know if Tia would approve of jeans, but since they made up the better part of her wardrobe, she decided to take the chance. Denim jeans, a white short-sleeved ribbed shirt, her every ready canvas shoes and she was ready to face the day. Not confident…but ready. As usual, she applied the minimum of make up. She pulled her luxurious hair severely back into a knot at the back of her head. It was not the most becoming style, but at least it kept it out of her face. When she reached the patio, Tia was there alone. Nick was nowhere in sight. Somehow she knew that he was not still in bed. He didn’t seem the type of person who spent a whole lot of time in bed. Before this thought had been completed, she pictured him in bed, but not sleeping. Shut up, Casey, she thought to herself.
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Tia smiled as Casey approached the table. “Good morning, Casey. After your tiring journey, I had thought you would be resting until much later.” The older woman looked stunning in a dress of soft peach with long sleeves and a roll collar. “Oh, this is late for me. Where is Nick? I expected to see him down here.” They had to talk. And soon. No use putting off today, as the saying went. “He was unexpectedly called away on business very early this morning. Some emergency that required his personal attention. But he asked me to assure you that he will be home in plenty of time for the party tonight.” “Oh,” Casey said on a sigh. Tia misinterpreted Casey’s disappointment and hurriedly sought to reassure her. “Young lovers don’t like to be separated even by a few hours, I know. But he will be back soon enough.” This did not go far in lifting Casey’s spirits. The only reason she missed his presence was because she wanted to talk seriously with him. Then Tia really dropped a bombshell with her next words. “Before Nicholas left, he gave explicit instructions for us to go shopping. We have your gown to order. And I must choose something special for this wedding. I have waited so long for it to finally arrive.” She patted Casey’s hand. It was obvious that she was excited about the coming event. She continued to chatter happily about the forth-coming wedding. “Besides your wedding gown, we must make some special purchases for a bride. Lingerie, some evening wear, skirts, blouses, dresses…whatever you see that you like.” She laughed at Casey’s scandalized expression. “Please I don’t need all that much,” Casey stammered. Her money was planned down to the last penny. And a wedding trousseau had not been considered in her financial inventory. “Please child,” Tia took Casey’s hand in hers. “Indulge an old woman in her fantasy and let me do this for
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you. Dimitri and I had only one child, a daughter who died shortly after her birth.” “Tia, I’m so sorry. I didn’t know.” It was so sad. Casey knew this woman would have made a wonderful mother. She would have loved to have someone like Louisa when she had been a child. “It was a long time ago. And later I did have Nicholas. But now you can give me the pleasure of doing for a daughter at this most important time in her life. It would mean so much to me, Casey.” How could she explain? “It’s not that I don’t want you to do this for me. It’s just…I guess I’m not used to people doing things like this for me. I’m not comfortable or very gracious about accepting gifts.” She was going to kill Nick! There wasn’t going to be a wedding because she would be in jail. “I know you don’t have any family of your own. At least, you haven’t mentioned any?” She paused waiting for Casey to correct her. “No, I don’t have anyone…” “Well, it’s settled then. As soon as you have had something to eat, we will have Yannis bring the car around. We can spend the entire day shopping if you like.” Casey smiled her approval of the day’s schedule. But her mind was reeling. If Nick had been present, she would gladly have given him a good swift kick under the table. She would certainly have plenty to say to him whenever he had the courage to put in an appearance. Emergency meeting! Bah! Undoubtedly, he knew what Tia had in mind for today and didn’t want to be around to witness Casey’s predicament. You just wait until tonight Nicholas Santos. You just wait, she thought to herself. It was a good thing Tia couldn’t read her mind. Right now her thoughts about Nick were anything but loving. Casey had insisted they shop for Tia’s dress first since she was in no great hurry to look at wedding dresses. So their first stop was at Tia’s dressmaker, a local shop
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catering to an older, more established clientele. They were ushered into a small but comfortable salon. Various dresses were presented for the older woman’s inspection. To Casey’s surprise, the selection was narrowed down to three in a very short time. Tia obviously knew what she wanted, what suited her and didn’t waste time on anything outside this ideal. Tia had already modeled two of the dresses for Casey’s opinion and was presently trying on the last one. While she waited, Casey was inspecting the display of scarves, belts and assorted accessories. She was vaguely aware of someone approaching from the front of the shop but wasn’t really interested until she recognized that sarcastic voice. “Getting ready for the unveiling tonight, Casey?” Only one female had ever spoken to her with such malice. It was not something easily forgotten. “Why Angela, I didn’t hear you come in. Are you looking for something for the party tonight?” she said in reply. Casey wasn’t afraid of this woman. She acknowledged a certain satisfaction in the knowledge that her barb had been right on target. Still, Angela’s remark about the unveiling made her uneasy. Angela’s full lips drew into a thin line, her eyes narrowed to slits as she glared at the younger woman. “Erik warned me about your acid tongue. I see he wasn’t exaggerating. Does Nick realize what a little shrew he’d getting?” Casey laughed. “I think he knows exactly what he’s after and what he wants. He’s the most aggressive person I’ve ever met.” “Well, we shall see,” the words sounded like a promise. This woman looked like someone with a secret. Casey’s uneasiness grew. But she took great pains to hide any insecurity. Casey summoned a smile that she hoped was far more confident than she felt.
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“Just be warned, Casey dear. Nick and I were very close until you appeared out of nowhere. I don’t plan to give up what is rightfully mine. And most certainly not without a fight,” she said fiercely. Angela turned to inspect a display of scarves. Casey’s attention was drawn to the long red lacquered nails. Cat’s claws came to mind. Now Casey’s anger was rising. She didn’t like being threatened. “Just what is that suppose to imply? Surely you don’t want to chase after a man who has made it plain he has chosen someone else to share his life? That’s pathetic.” “I want Nick. It’s as plain as that. And I know that he really wants me. We had a spat a short time ago. This is his way of getting even with me. But it won’t last. You know the saying about all is fair in love and war? Well, this Miss Callahan, is war as far as you and I are concerned.” Hostility radiated from this hateful woman in waves. Her narrowed eyes mentally sliced Casey into bits too small to be of much importance. Casey chose her words with care. She didn’t dare say anything that would give Angela any idea the engagement was not real. At the same time, she had to make her realize Nick was not a prize to be won like a stuffed animal at the circus. “If I had to fight another woman for a man, I don’t think the winning would hold much victory. Nick’s a grown man who can make up his own mind. I don’t believe he would appreciate being put up on the auction block to be awarded to the highest bidder. Or do you prefer your men docile? Ones you can keep at your beck and call?” Maybe that was why this woman was so intrigued with Nick. He was none of those things. Angela couldn’t control him and since this was an unknown commodity in her life, it acted as a driving force. She was compelled to have Nick at her side at all costs. Only he wasn’t cooperating.
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“At least when I am with a man, I know how to behave like a woman and not a…” the rest of her tirade halted as Tia made an entrance. Angela’s manner altered completely. Suddenly she was glowing with warmth and charm. Her face lit with a welcoming smile as Tia came to stand by Casey’s side. “Madame Santos, how good to see you.” She extended her well-manicured hand. Casey took childish delight in the fact that apparently Angela had not been accorded the privilege of addressing Tia in a more informal manner. Casey knew that in Greece close friends and family members called each other by their first names. But strangers or mere acquaintances are addressed by their titles. If Angela and Nick had been close, evidently that closeness hadn’t carried over to his aunt. Tia ignored the offered hand. “Mrs. Britton,” she acknowledged coolly. Tia held her head high, her tone formal and brisk. “I believe Nicholas mentioned you will be present tonight to help us celebrate his engagement to our Casey?” “Yes, I wouldn’t think of missing such an important evening as this. It should be quite,” a slight hesitation, “interesting.” Obviously it was a strain on her control to keep her voice civil. Barely civil now that Tia had made her delight with Nick’s engagement to Casey known. “We will see you later this evening then. Casey and I have much to do today. Preparations for the wedding and all the little things that must be attended to that will make the day memorable.” This was a dismissal, plain and simple. Even Angela could not find a way to disregard it. “Of course,” she said nodding her head. Then she turned, dropped the scarf she’d been holding as if it were something distasteful and left the shop as quietly as she had entered. “Please forgive me Casey. But I do not like that woman and never have. Her only interest in Nick centers on his position and bank account. I hope she didn’t say
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anything to upset you?” Tia clasped Casey’s hands in hers as she studied her flushed cheeks. Louisa had lived a good many years and had seen her share of women like Angela Britton. She’d learned how to either handle their rude behavior or ignore them completely. But Casey was young and she was pretty sure that she’d never had to deal with the likes of Angela before. “It wasn’t anything I couldn’t handle. I might not be very big, but I can take pretty good care of myself, Tia. She did say something about having an argument with Nick though.” Casey smiled at the skeptical expression on Tia’s face. What if it was true? What if by the end of the week Nick told her it was okay for her to continue on with her trip? It didn’t matter. Did it? She wouldn’t think about it now or why it felt like it did matter. “I don’t doubt they did. Nicholas isn’t a man you would want to be anything but truthful with. And that woman has tried to deceive him many times during their acquaintance. But Nicholas is a shrewd judge of character and quickly discovered her true nature. Oh, it amused him at first I’m sure. But her constant interference into his personal life has become extremely tiresome. Now if matters get out of hand with Angela Britton, you come to me. It would give me enormous pleasure to put her in her place. “Now, what do you think of this dress,” Tia asked ending the topic of Angela. “We still have so much to do this morning. It was a relief when the dress had been selected and they were finally free to leave the close confines of the shop. Angela’s heavy perfume hung in the air long after her hurried departure. But this relief was short lived. As soon as they left the shop, Tia led her into the shop next door. Here an older woman who addressed Tia in Greek greeted them. Tia spoke very rapidly, Casey assumed explaining about the forthcoming wedding and the need for a gown that had to be ready for the wedding on Friday. As
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it turned out, Tia had called ahead so everything was ready for their inspection. They sought Casey’s opinion on dress styles and bolt after bolt of material, laces and silks. Her head was swimming with visions of patterns and textures. Somehow a final choice was made. The chosen gown was simple with a delicate rounded neckline, tight fitting bodice tapering down to yards of flowing floor length skirt. It was elegant in its simplicity and everyone declared it perfect for her. There was the session in the fitting room, a new experience for Casey. For someone who bought her clothes off the rack, this was like something out of a dream. Or a nightmare. She was amazed by the speed with which you could get things accomplished when you were a person of prominence. Casey watched as Tia talked to the seamstress. She was glowing with happiness. This was all Nick’s fault! It always came back to that. He had perpetrated this masquerade and allowed, no encouraged it to get to this stage. To be truthful she had to assume some of the blame. She didn’t have the courage to confront Tia with the truth. How could she come out with the words that would kill the joy and happiness in the older woman’s eyes? Casey had never been one to shirk responsibility. In fact, it was quite the reverse. She normally tended to take on more than she could easily handle. But now, for some unaccountable reason, she was standing by helpless. She was letting Nick take her life in a direction she didn’t want to go. Oh, she couldn’t deny her attraction to Nick. But marriage? To consider it was unthinkable in her case. And dangerous.
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CHAPTER 9
These thoughts filled her mind the rest of the day and while she dressed for dinner. Casey began dressing early with the intention of leaving herself ample time for a confrontation with Nick before any of the guests arrived. But things were not turning out as she would have wished. But then what had since her plane had landed in Athens? Nick didn’t arrive home until shortly before the first guests were due to arrive. She knew he would be dressing and the idea of barging into his room and giving vent to her anger had crossed her mind. Just as quickly she recalled
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the feel of his massive arms about her; the way his touch aroused her like nothing in her meager experience. She prudently decided against such rash action. The ramifications might be more than she could handle. His room was no place for any kind of a meeting, even if it was just to talk. If she couldn’t get him alone for a talk before he announced the engagement, she would talk to him after. And let him be responsible for explaining the end of their relationship as best he could after she had gone. Damn the man! Since she had finally decided upon a plan of action, there was no reason to remain hidden in her room. Because Nick had been so critical of her purple caftan last evening, she would wear her black gown just to show him she wasn’t afraid of anything. Summoning up every ounce of courage she possessed, she slipped the soft whispering black folds over her head, smoothing it down over her soft inviting curves. She would show him she wasn’t afraid to look feminine! The dress called for a sophisticated hairstyle, but after Casey saw the creamy expanse of her back left exposed by the dress, she decided it would have to be less formal. She left her hair hanging in soft waves to her waist. Plain and simple. Her only jewelry was small gold earrings and a delicate gold chain draped to caress the soft swell of her breasts. Once she was ready she paced back and forth over the plush carpet. She was completely unaware of how lovely she looked. All she saw in the mirror was a young woman, very alone and very unsure of herself in this unorthodox situation in which she now found herself. She took a deep breath, squared her slender shoulders and left her room to go in search of one Nicholas Santos. If he wasn’t downstairs yet, she would wait. Her small sandaled feet made no sound as she entered the library.
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But Nick, awaiting her appearance, had heard the swish of her long gown. He turned as she entered the room. They stood facing each other across the width of the room as if ready to do battle. Nick was leaning against the mantle, arms folded across his wide expanse of chest. Casey stood just inside the door, her golden head thrown back, the greenish-blue of her eyes flashing. At the magnificent sight he made in evening attire, black suit fitting as if the material had been molded to his long hard frame, her small pool of courage began to evaporate. Her heart began to pound. For a full minute Nick stared at her, neither smiling nor saying a word. But words were not necessary. Not when his eyes were doing all the talking. Casey had never seen desire flame with such intensity in a man’s eyes before. But now, Nick’s eyes were ablaze as they pinned her to the spot. Nick’s look started with her hair, traveled down to her bare shoulders, lingering on the delightful curve of her breasts, before burning a path along the deep vee to her tiny waist. When his gaze reached the hem of her skirt, his eyes boldly retraced the searing path, again lingering on the bare curve of breast before coming to halt on her flushed face. She could hardly breathe. He had stripped her naked by those blazing dark eyes as every curve was examined. This sensation was real, as real as if he had actually reached out a large hand to caress her. Panic filled her throat. The desire to turn and run back to the sanctuary of her room was gaining hold with every second as time stretched to a screaming pitch. Effortlessly he pushed away from the mantel, relaxing his arms as he indicated the carpet directly in front of him. “Come here,” he ordered in an unnaturally deep voice. There was a harshness to his tone Casey, in her innocence, didn’t understand. He said only those two words but there was no way she missed the command.
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Unbidden, her stubborn streak rose to the fore. He had taken complete control over her life since their meeting. This might be a small token of defiance, but it was all hers. It was a mistake she was to realize in a very short time. It would have been more prudent to heed the warning in his voice. But she didn’t view him as a man holding himself under strict control. “I don’t think so,” she said quietly, turning her back. She took the few steps necessary to reach the bookshelves to her right, as far from him as possible. With gentle fingers, she traced the titles of the books at her eye level, trying not to betray the quaking of her knees. That quaking was on the verge of starting a chain reaction throughout the rest of her body. “Casey! I asked you to come here.” “You did not ask. You ordered. Whatever you have to say to me can be said as we are.” “If I am made to walk across the room, little bit, it is you who will suffer the consequences. Not I.” “I don’t think you would risk creating a scene in front of Tia. And she’ll be joining us any second now. Besides, I’m a little too big for you to turn over your knee and…” whatever else she was about to say died on her lips as she glanced up from under her thick lashes and saw the thunderous expression on Nick’s face. In three long strides he was beside her, giving her no time for retreat. She found herself crushed against the long hard length of his masculine body. Her softer feminine curves were molded to his hard masculine length. The feel of him, the warm clean-shaven scent of him filled her senses as a betraying light headedness threatened to deny her rational thought. With unleashed passion he subdued her with one hand as the other hand slide beneath her curtain of hair, pinning her to him. He seemed mesmerized by the sight of the golden strands against the darkness of his dinner jacket. The pained harshness of his expression sent tremors vibrating through her.
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His hard mouth swooped to take demanding possession of hers. It was a kiss of punishment and delight all at the same time. At first Casey made a feeble attempt to break his hold but her puny strength was no match for his strong arms. With both hands pinned behind her, Casey was bent backwards over his arm, a position that restricted all movement on her part. With a harsh groan his lips released hers. But he was not finished. Not by any margin. Ignoring the silent pleading in her eyes, he lowered his lips once more to tease the corners of her soft quivering mouth before slowing burning a path to the tender cords of her throat, so lovely, so soft against his lips. As his seeking lips found the hollow between her firm breasts, they blazed a heated path across each delectable curve. At this point all her carefully erected barriers began to crack. An opening began to spread against this mental structure. What had taken her four years to build had taken Nick only hours to initiate its collapse. Abandoning conscious thought, Casey returned his kiss as much as her limited experience would allow. Nick sensed the change in her. He released her arms. With a murmur of need, Casey wound her arms around his neck, arching her body closer to the hard warmth of his. He had become her only reality now. The emotions she had shut away, ones that had lain dormant all those years would no longer be denied. A part of her rational mind screamed at her to pull away before it was too late, before he completely dominated her. But helplessly she whirled in a swaying sea of heady emotion. She would pay for this later but now all she wanted was to be close to him in this private world they were creating. Surprisingly it was Nick who drew away, leaving her feeling deserted, reluctant to be far from his strength and warmth. Still bemused by his kisses, she wrapped her slender arms around his waist. She leaned forward resting her forehead against his chest where the thunderous sound
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of his racing heart filled her senses. It wasn’t until she became aware of a polite cough that she realized that they were no longer alone. It had the affect of a cold shower dragging her sharply back to reality. She was scarlet with embarrassment at being found in Nick’s arms…again. She could actually feel the heat radiating from her flushed cheeks. Tia Louisa didn’t even try to hide the happiness in her voice. “Our guests should be arriving soon, Nicholas. Perhaps you would please pour me a glass of sherry. And something for our Casey. Something tall and cold perhaps? That is, if she can bear to let you go for a moment.” The older woman was absolutely beaming. Nick grinned as he disentangled Casey’s arms from around his waist. “Of course, Tia. I think I could do with something cold myself.” A long cold shower would do nicely, he thought to himself. “I was a little concerned about your hasty wedding, but now all of my fears have been laid to rest. You two look so right together. And Casey, my dear child, don’t look so embarrassed. Come, sit next to me,” Tia patted the sofa next to her. “Greece is a passionate country with lively, passionate people at her heart.” “I’m just beginning to realize that.” Casey glared at Nick as she made to pass him to sit with Tia but he grasped her wrist before she could get away. “I had intended to put this on her finger earlier but we discovered…ah…more important matters to concentrate on,” he said looking down at her, his smile making her pulse race once again. Before she realized his intention, he took her left hand in his. He slid a fabulous diamond ring on her engagement finger. It was breathtaking! Centered around a huge diamond were clusters of smaller ones. She had never seen anything so beautiful. “I take it the ring meets with your approval?” Nick asked raising her hand to his lips, slowly kissing the tip of each finger.
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She gulped for air. “It is the loveliest ring I’ve ever seen.” The ‘but’ died on her lips as she looked up to see him watching her. His eyes held a warning. With Tia sitting just a few feet away, this was not the time to assert herself. Besides the results of her last effort were still embarrassingly fresh in her memory. As if she would ever be able to forget the feel and touch of his lips. Using the pretext of showing Tia her ring, Casey moved to sit on the sofa. She resolved to keep as much distance as possible between her and Nick until she could talk reasonably about a way out of this tangled web. There were nine guests that evening. This included Erik and Angela who were the last to arrive. Because they had arrived together Casey was more than a little uncomfortable. But she tried to put them out of her mind. Nick’s friends were warm and gracious, putting her at ease. If they were curious or surprised over this sudden engagement, they said nothing. They appeared elated at the prospect of Nick abandoning his bachelor status. They were so delighted for him that it began to rub off on Casey. She soon found that she could accept their best wishes with grace and not flinch at the lie behind her smile. Andreas, his friend of long standing, was especially pleased about Nick’s decision to finally settle down. “My friend, I can’t tell you how pleased I am that you’re joining the ranks by getting married. Why should you be the only blissful bachelor in our group?” There were snorts of laughter and assenting nods from the other men. Andreas was a big man about the same height and build as Nick. He had dark almost black eyes and where Nick’s hair was black, his was a dark chestnut brown. Like Nick he wasn’t a conventionally handsome man. His attractiveness was in his intelligence and humor that he had in abundance. “Darling husband, would you like to rephrase that last remark?” his wife Paula asked as she gave him a threatening look. The merriment lurking in her eyes betrayed her mock anger. She and Andreas were
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newlyweds of one year and were expecting their first child in six months. It was difficult to tell who was the happiest about the coming event. Paula was without a doubt one of those cherished wives Tia had talked about. She was of average height but had the most fantastic red hair and deep green eyes that Casey had ever seen. And a smile that was warm and friendly and Casey liked her on sight. “What I mean was…” Andreas stammered. “Why should Nick have to suffer the company of so many eager beautiful women when he can come home to his own lovely wife?” Paula merely raised a brow at this rewording. It wasn’t often that she could get the best of him and she was enjoying it immensely. The poor man tried again. “There is something relaxing about returning after a difficult day at the office to the comfort of home and a wife.” He smiled broadly down at his wife sure that he had it right this time. “Comfortable like an old shoe or chair?” Paula asked as her long manicured nails tapped a threat on the table next to her chair. She’d pay for this later but she wasn’t worried. They would both enjoy his retribution. Casey couldn’t stand it any longer. She burst out laughing, the sound releasing the others to do the same. “You had better stop trying to explain yourself before you get in any deeper,” she told him. “I do believe I’ll take your advice,” he said rolling his eyes. The way he looked at his wife it was plain she was the center of his life. Casey felt a momentary stab of longing. What would it be like to be loved like that? A short time later Casey had gone to check with Rosa on a question about dinner that concerned Louisa. She had just reentered the room when Erik blocked her path across the room. “I’ve never seen you looking so beautiful, darling,” he told her his eyes locked on her cleavage.
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“I don’t think we have anything to talk about, Erik. So if you’ll just let me pass,” she said and made to move past him. But he stood his ground. “I don’t remember ever seeing you in anything this revealing before. Did he buy it for you?” Erik asked making it sound like an insult. “Not that it’s any of your business, but no, he did not. I bought this all by myself.” “Why didn’t you ever wear anything like this for me? We were together for over six months but you always managed to dress just short of looking like a nun.” Truth be told, Erik was jealous as hell. If he’d ever seen her dressed like this, in clothing that showed off her spectacular figure to perfection, he just might have gone through with the wedding and made the best of her background. Now the thought of Nick Santos owning rights to his discard was eating him up with anger. “I’m sorry to hear that you didn’t approve of my clothing. But I was much younger then. I’ve changed in many ways over the last few years. And if you’d loved me, it wouldn’t have mattered what I wore, now would it?” He would probably have a good laugh if she told him about Nick’s reaction to the purple caftan she’d worn to dinner last night. She was pretty sure that Erik’s reaction to that gown would be much the same as Nick’s had been. “You can’t go through with this wedding, Casey,” Erik hissed not wanting anyone else to overhear. “I won’t allow it.” If he couldn’t stop the wedding, he’d make sure that Nick had no allusions about his new bride. Then, after a time, Casey would be sorry she hadn’t listened to him. If she played her cards right, he might even take her as a lover for a while. Part of her allure had been her innocence but if he had to wait until after she’d lost it to Nick, then so be it. But he’d have her one day or so his conceit led him to believe. Casey smiled. “You don’t have any say in the matter, Erik. And I’ll marry whom ever I want. It is none
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of your concern. Now, if you’ll excuse me,” she said pushing past him to join Paula and Louisa. Casey and Paula took to each other immediately. Within minutes they were settled on the sofa chatting like long-lost school chums. She found Paula very easy to talk to. So easy that she almost blurted out the true situation between her and Nick. But she managed to channel the conversation into another area thus avoiding a catastrophe. They were discussing Casey’s teaching job and her struggle to save for the trip. Casey was just telling Paula a little about her adventures in Rome when Angela joined them. “Rome? Isn’t that where Nicholas said you’d met?” she asked quirking a brow. She looked stunning if a little flashy for Casey’s tastes, but she still had to concede the older woman’s beauty. Her flame red strapless dress fit like a second skin, tight to the waist more than emphasizing her mature curves. The full skirt cascaded to the floor in layers of red. Her makeup was flawless, but the entire affect was tarnished by her condescending tone she used with Casey and the other women in the room. “That’s right. We met at the airport as a matter of fact.” At least that wasn’t a lie. She just didn’t clarify which city they were in at the time. “Well, he certainly is good at keeping a secret. No one knew of your existence until yesterday,” Angela persisted. “Maybe he was a little undecided about the decision to make your engagement official? When you’re in Nick’s social circle you have to be sure everything in your life is proper.” A tingle of apprehension shot along Casey’s spine. Angela was not going to let up until she learned all the details. “Actually, quite a few people have known of my presence for sometime now. But for the most part, I like to keep a low profile.” Where was Nick, she thought. Angela was his friend. Casey didn’t appreciate the baiting. It made it more difficult for her to remain civil. “There’s a difference between being discrete and remaining hidden. Wouldn’t you agree?” Angela
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challenged. “And is anyone in your family coming for the wedding? Surely you’ve told your family about your engagement?” Casey was quick to note the underlying meaning there and had no doubt about where Angela had gotten her information. Erik must have taken malicious delight in relating everything he knew about her and her background. Well, Casey was tired of being afraid and ashamed. If Angela wanted a fight, she could have one. Before Casey could manage a reply, Nick was at her side. “What is it you want, Angela? An hourly description of our courtship? I assure you, even though Casey and I may not have known each other very long, a matter of weeks actually, there is nothing mysterious about our relationship,” Nick said staring at Angela. “And Casey has no family. She’s all alone except for me. And if she did have family, I would have them flown over for the wedding.” Casey would have thought from his tone that Nick was enjoying this verbal confrontation, except she recognized the presence of those little white lines at the corner of his mouth. He was angry. How much angrier would he be when he learned the truth about her history and what little family she did have? “Well, darling, we who care about you can’t help but wonder at this surprise turn in your life. And the suddenness of the wedding. After all, you’ve managed to remain single all these years. And heaven knows there have been countless women in your life all ready to tempt you into matrimony.” Angela had wanted to make Casey cringe but the little twit hadn’t so much as batted an eye. She had to give the younger woman credit for composure. Casey didn’t wonder if Angela included herself in that number. The added emphasis on women was undoubtedly to let her know Nick had not led a life of celibacy. Nick’s eyes narrowed as he considered his words carefully. “I don’t believe Casey’s naiveté encompasses
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the belief that my past life has been conducted from inside the walls of a monastery.” If Angela did anything to scare Casey away he would make her pay for the rest of her life. Just one word from him in the right ear and Angela Britton would be on the outside of the inner circle that she found so necessary to her existence. Casey jumped into the fray. “I don’t think of myself as being naïve.” She was twenty-four, not a child for goodness sake. “The women in Nick’s past mean nothing to me. After all, that was all before I met him. Some of us women prefer a man of experience so they’re able to lead us after the marriage ceremony. To a knowledgeable woman that wouldn’t matter one way or the other.” Casey put her arm around Nick’s waist, laying her head against his chest. A momentary hush fell over the entire room. Angela was well known for her harsh criticism of the female sex, especially ones in Nick’s vicinity. Few ever dared to stand up to her. Most turned the other cheek content to pretend she didn’t exist. It was safe to say all of Angela’s friends were male. But there was no denying that this pint-sized beauty had put Angela firmly in her place. The older women in the room politely tried to hide a smile at this small victory, while a couple of the men almost choked on their drinks. Nick said nothing. He just grinned down at Casey. It was Erik who broke the silence. Until now he’d been very quiet, content to watch the proceedings from a distance. Placing his drink on the table by the wall, he faced the roomful of people. As soon as he began speaking, Casey felt her small victory fade as a chill gripped her. She knew what he was going to say. “I suppose Casey has told you all the sordid details about her background, eh Nick? I’ve known Casey a long time, and I can tell you, this,” indicating Nick’s home, “is a real life Cinderella story. From rags to riches you might say.” His gaze never left Casey’s face.
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Only Casey knew that the confident look on Nick’s face was pure bluff, as he drew her more firmly against the shelter of his big body. She should have told him everything before the dinner party, before he had been put in this position. “I’m fully aware of Casey’s background as you call it. It does not concern me in the least. All that matters is this woman I hold in my arms. And that’s just where she’s going to stay.” Nick didn’t fully understand all that was going on but he recognized a troublemaker when he saw one. He had known Erik was trouble the moment he’d laid eyes on him. He made a mental note to have Erik’s background checked. If he continued to prove an unwanted intrusion in their lives, a word here and there could prove very disastrous to Erik’s financial holdings. Nick had his suspicions about Erik Jefferies and his treatment of Casey, and vowed that Erik wouldn’t hurt her anymore in this lifetime if he could prevent it. Erik backed off. “Just curious, that’s all, Nick. I wouldn’t want to see a fellow man duped as I was a few years ago. Casey wasn’t as open and honest then as she apparently is now. We had to search out the information for ourselves about her so called family. Maggie Callahan was not exactly the type of woman you’d want to bring into the family fold. She’d probably walk off with anything and everything that wasn’t nailed down.” Erik had never been recognized for his courage in a physical or verbal confrontation. There was uncertainty in his voice as the last few words hung in the air, suspended on a cord of silence. He wasn’t fully acquainted with Nick’s reputation, personal or business, but something told him he carried considerable influence in the financial arena. “Perhaps, Erik, it was you who did not instill confidence in her. Usually when someone has something of importance to say, they are more comfortable knowing they will be viewed by an open, fair-minded confidant,” Nick’s voice was menacingly low. He dared the other man to deny his words.
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Erik, in his comparative spineless state, backed down immediately. He nodded his head in capitulation. “As you say, maybe I could have been a bit more understanding. And Casey was very young.” Erik took a deep breath as if to exercise the taste of his next words. “Of course I’m very happy for her. You both have my good wishes.” It was a bold lie and they all knew it. “Thank you,” was all Nick said. Now his smile encompassed the other somewhat curious guests in the room. “I believe dinner is being served. So,” he placed Casey’s cold hand on his arm, “if you will join us in the dining room.” They escorted their guests into dinner as if nothing of any great importance had just taken place. Casey was placed at one end of the table and Nick at the other. Paula was on her right with Tia on her left. If she hadn’t liked Paula before, she adored her now. “Don’t pay any attention to that woman, Casey. She’s just mad because Nick’s been taken off the market. And believe me, she’s been shopping to get him for years. But he’s too smart to get involved with her type and it drives her mad.” “I’m afraid I’ve made an enemy,” Casey said frowning. “You put her in her place but good. The word will be out tomorrow and you’ll be the topic of conversation all around town. And all of it praising your actions,” Paula told her grinning over her wine. “I guarantee that every woman who hears about tonight will be your friend. Angela can say anything she wants about you and no one with any sense will listen from now on.” “I hope you’re right,” Casey said trying to smile. “How would you like to do some sightseeing during the next few days? We could set a time and I’ll pick you up,” Paula offered truly wanting to get to know Casey better. Casey was funny and intelligent and Paula knew they were going to become good friends. “I’d love to,” Casey said grinning, her mood lifting. So they chatted and planned an outing to sightsee and shop.
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Later that evening, back in the isolation of her room, Casey replayed the evening over and over in her mind. The dinner had gone smoothly, the talk very general but entertaining. Neither Erik nor Angela had anything more to say directly to or about her the rest of the evening. Casey didn’t know if this was a victory or merely a respite to reorganize their attack. Either way, it left her feeling vulnerable. The two conspirators had excused themselves soon after everyone had adjourned to the library for coffee. If Casey had been relieved by their departure, the same couldn’t be said for Tia’s eagerness for the Friday’s wedding. Her enthusiasm was contagious to everyone except the bride whose smile would have wobbled now and then if not for her tremendous will power. When Tia had enthused on Casey’s virtues, saying she couldn’t have chosen a more beautiful or charming bride for Nick, Casey’s embarrassment reached monstrous proportions. As she and Nick had said goodnight to the last of the guests, she’d felt an invisible noose turn into a strangle hold. There didn’t appear to be an easy or painless way out of this mess Nick had gotten them into. She’d quickly excused herself pleading a long day and escaped to her room. Nick and Tia had returned to the library. She wondered if Tia made sure there wouldn’t be a repeat of the bedroom scene from the night before by keeping Nick with her. Nick was so lucky to have had someone so loving and caring while he was growing up. She sighed wondering what it would be like to have such a wonderful enduring relationship like that. But now that she was in bed, sleep once again eluded her. Nick had confidently told Erik he was well aware of her background, but she knew this wasn’t true. There hadn’t been much opportunity to talk of personal things. And would she want to talk about that anyway? What would his reaction be when she told him the story? And, of course, she had to do just that. Yesterday or even this morning, she wouldn’t have hesitated because she’d
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thought her stay was going to be a short one. But right now she wasn’t so sure. Nick had a right to know the truth. She owed him that much. In this short time, everyone in this household was becoming too important to her. She liked them and wanted them to like her. The idea of even Rosa or Yannis thinking badly of her was painful. But better they hear it from her than from someone else. Moisture filled her eyes at the thought of them turning away from her as Erik had done. She’d read somewhere that you couldn’t be hurt unless you cared. And she could no longer deny that she cared. A great deal! She had to be fair to Nick and to herself. He was in a position of prominence. And Erik had made it clear she could be considered by some to be an embarrassment to someone in his position. What would be Nick’s reaction if some of his friends were to question her about her family? She would have to be honest. Anything else would go against her beliefs. To Casey, it hadn’t mattered much about the different men parading in and out of their shabby little apartment during her younger years. She’s understood, but when she was still a child it just hadn’t really affected her personally. She had school and her friends. Besides, she wasn’t home much anyway. It wasn’t until she was in the throes of becoming a young woman that she couldn’t deny the reality of her home conditions. This was the time when some of the men callers began to look at her as more than just a transient figure in the apartment. She shivered remembering some of the lustful looks directed at her. Casey shook her head in an effort to remove the painful memories, the painful disgust. Here it was almost nine years since she’d last seen Maggie and she was still having an impact on her life. Giving the pillow one last punch, Casey forced herself to settle down to sleep. She would have to talk with Nick tomorrow. No matter what!
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CHAPTER 10
As much as Casey would have liked to confront Nick first thing the next morning before lack of courage melted her resolve, Tia’s presence at breakfast prevented any intense conversation. There were only a few days before the wedding. When Tia happily announced that she’d received a call that their gowns would be ready for a final fitting tomorrow morning, Casey’s lump of guilt grew to basketball size. “So soon?” she nearly choked, astounded at the speed of the dressmakers.
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Tia patted Casey’s hand. “I’ve been a very good patron of those ladies for years, my dear. It’s not a practice of mine to presume upon a relationship but this is a special occasion. They were more than happy to accommodate my request.” “But we just chose the patterns and materials yesterday. They must have worked all night.” “They are being paid handsomely for their time. And a little more because of the time limit I imposed,” Tia said smiling at Casey’s stunned expression. Then Tia turned to Nick. “You will be so proud of your bride, Nicholas. Her gown is simple, yet elegant, enhanced only by Casey’s natural beauty.” With this declaration, Tia reached over to give Casey’s hand another affectionate squeeze. “I’m already proud of her, Tia,” Nick said never taking his eyes from Casey. “You made quite an impression last night, little bit,” he told her. This wedding couldn’t come fast enough for him and not only because of the obvious reasons. He was terrified he’d wake up one morning and find her gone, although he knew beyond any doubt that she had become attached to Tia Louisa and wouldn’t do anything to hurt her. And leaving in the middle of the night would do just that. “Your friends are nice, Nick.” At least that was another area where she could be completely truthful. “I was nervous at first, but they made me feel welcome. It was like renewing old acquaintances.” “You and Paula certainly had a lot to talk about. Exchanging confidences, I suppose?” Was he asking her how much she’d told Paula about the true nature of their meeting? Well, let him wonder. It might be a small victory, but it was all hers. “Let’s just say, it was mostly girl-talk,” she told him and couldn’t suppress the teasing smile playing across her soft lips. Her satisfaction deepened as he raised a questioning brow. But he allowed the matter to drop.
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“I had planned on spending the next days together, sailing or exploring the sights of Athens. But since it is more important to be completely free for several weeks after the wedding, I have to deal with some pressing business matters.” “You’re leaving for your office right after breakfast?” she asked incredulously. What she had to say to him couldn’t be put off any longer. Not giving him time to answer, she plunged on. “Before you leave, I’d like to talk to you. Just for a few minutes. I’m sure it won’t take any longer than that.” Once he heard what she had to say, he wouldn’t want to see much of her. So a few minutes would be more than enough time. “Are you sure it cannot wait until tonight?” he asked frowning at her. “No. It can’t. Please Nick! It won’t take long, I promise.” “In that case, let’s to into the library. I can get the papers I need while you explain what is so important that it requires our immediate attention.” Nick’s hand rested possessively on the small of her back as they walked down the hallway. This brought back memories of the night before. Memories of his masterful enslavement of her senses. She’d never behaved like that before in her life. Nick walked through the door, stepped aside to allow her to enter before firmly closing the door behind them effectively shutting the room off from the rest of the house. He walked to his desk and began shifting through some papers. “Now, what is so important that you couldn’t wait to discuss it with me, little bit?” “Don’t call me that!” she snapped. Fear or uncertainty, or both put her on the defensive. Now that she had his attention, it was difficult to begin. An overwhelming uneasiness engulfed her; fear of a reenactment of that terrible scene with Eric those years ago.
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She swallowed hard, squared her slight shoulders, and clenched her hands firmly in front of her. Might as well get it over with. “Remember last night when Erik questioned you about my background?” Nick moved behind the desk and sat. “Yes, I recall that remark,” he nodded. “Well, you see…” she moistened her dry lips in a nervous gesture. “I come from what some people would call the wrong side of the tracks. I know that’s a trite, worn out phrase, but it more than describes my background.” Nick sat leaning back in his chair, the expression on his face in no way betraying the import her words were having on him. When it became apparent that he was not going to speak, she began again. “Can you imagine what people would say if it became known that your wife’s stepmother had been a woman of questionable morals? There were some who called her a…a prostitute. Although to give her credit, I personally think that’s a bit harsh.” There, the words were out, released on a long breath. She sighed. But Nick just sat there, his expression not having altered in the least. Where was the disgust? Where was the anger? “Go on, Casey,” he encouraged with a frown. Was this the reason Erik Jefferies ended his engagement to Casey? The man was a bigger fool then he’d given him credit for being. Casey stared at him in bewilderment. “What do you mean, go on? That’s it,” she told him her frown deepening. “How can you possibly go on with this bogus engagement…let alone the wedding knowing this about my past?” Anger she had expected. Erik had erupted. But Nick looked confused. “I fail to see how this information about your family should affect our relationship. It is you I’m going to marry on Friday. Not your stepmother.” He studied her bemused expression several seconds before continuing.
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“Please tell me why you felt this confession was necessary?” He stood then, coming around the desk to stand close to her. She had to tip her head to look up into his face. “Surely you can see that you had the right to the truth before it’s too late?” “Too late for what?” he demanded huskily. “You’re evading my question.” “I’m not evading your question. Apparently you don’t understand the implications of what I’ve just told you,” she argued. It was hard to think clearly with him this close. The clean masculine scent of him combined with the sexual promise in his eyes was robbing her of her normal logical thought processes. “You still have not answered me,” he said softly. She glared up at him. “Because,” she was about to tell him that he and Tia had come to mean a great deal to her. But he must never know how much he had achieved in shattering the protective wall she’d erected so painstakingly over the years. When she didn’t continue, he lightly placed his large hands on her shoulders. Putting a finger under her chin, he lifted her face to his inspection. She wasn’t quick enough to hide the pain in her eyes. His angry gasp filled the silent room. “Who has made that part of your life so important?” She still just stared at him. He grew impatient. His hands, although still gentle, gave her a mild shake. She couldn’t keep the tremor out of her voice as she tried to break his hold on her chin. “I thought you’d be angry.” He looked surprised. “Casey, I asked you a question and am waiting for your answer. If I’m not mistaken, Erik Jefferies has something to do with this.” She nodded and slowly told him about their engagement. When she came to the part where Erik had broken off the relationship and his subsequent harassment of her, Nick’s hands tightened on her shoulders.
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With a muttered curse, he crushed her to his long hard length, buying his face in her hair. “I knew the man was a fool the minute I set eyes on him at the airport. But until now, I didn’t realize just how big a fool.” To Casey’s amazement, he laughed. “But thank God he is! Or you would not be free to marry me now,” he boomed triumphantly. “But Nick,” his name died on her lips as his mouth swooped to close over hers, silencing her quite effectively. If he had been trying to dominate her, she might have fought. But his lips were coaxing as they moved slowly over hers. She could only think of the feel and taste of him. When he released her lips, she tried to speak again, but he placed a finger gently against her lips. “We will speak of this no more Casey. Discuss it with Tia if you need further assurance. But it is of no importance to me or to anyone now or in the future. If this information has influenced my opinion of you in any way, it is to increase my admiration. You undoubtedly have strived long and hard to work your way out of an uncomfortable environment. In my eyes, this makes you an exceptional young woman. My woman!” “What can I say to make you understand that this situation between us cannot go on?” A sudden weakness threatened to overcome her determination. A weakness that had a great deal to do with the inherent goodness and the touch of this man. The only man who would ever mean anything to her? “Have you failed to notice just how excited Tia has become over the wedding? And the gowns, Nick. She has everything planned!” Never one to panic, Casey had just about reached that point. Somehow she knew that if she couldn’t make Nick see reason before he left for the office, it would be too late to turn back. There was this nagging thought in the back of her mind telling her that she had already reached that point. But she would not, or could not, acknowledge it yet.
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She had no idea how lovely and vulnerable she looked standing there so close to him, the warm rays of the sun dancing off her hair. Anger lent a complementary flush to her up-turned face with just a hint of dampness in her eyes. Her lips trembled as if she might cry. “How could you have me tell Tia the wedding is not to be,” he asked harshly. “Could you go to her now, this minute, and tell her we are not to be married?” He would not let her talk her way out of their marriage. He was not lying when he said that her background had no bearing on their relationship. All he cared about was this warm, loving, gentle woman he held in his arms. He would spend the rest of his life teaching her about love, protecting her with his name, his body and his love. He could only stare as his hold tightened, threatening to crush the very breath from her. He was daring her to defy him hoping he wasn’t pushing her too far. “I couldn’t do that!” she stormed furiously. “I couldn’t bear to see her disappointed any more than you can. And you know it! You’re playing on my sympathies. And it’s not fair. You won’t own up to your responsibility to Tia. And I can’t either.” She fought against the hold he had on her, but her hands were pinned firmly against his chest. Anger and fear were prodding her on as she kicked out with one small foot. Nick merely laughed at her futile effort to escape. Effortlessly he bent placing an arm behind her knees hauling her up into his strong arms. He carried her to the sofa where he sat with her cradled on his lap. One large, well-shaped hand imprisoned both of her hands when she tried to push herself away from him. Any further verbal protest died on her lips as his head descended blocking out the rest of the world until only he remained. Her soft trembling lips parted voluntarily beneath his hard demanding kiss. The kiss became gentler as his lips moved sensuously back and forth across hers before a heightened pressure parted her lips once more as his mouth devoured hers.
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Reluctantly, Nick lifted his mouth from hers. He drank in her bemused look, the soft blush coloring her cheeks and the passion-swollen lips he’d just tasted. Very gently, his fingers traced the contours of her face, his eyes intent as if memorizing every line. “You belong to me, Casey,” he ground out. “There can be no turning back now. You and I are committed.” It sounded so final when he said it. There was such a look of determination in his black passion filled eyes, even Casey in her befuddled state knew what he said was true. Her future was sealed, intertwined with this big hulk of a man. A small voice deep within her admitted, finally, that she had no wish to be anywhere but at his side. She could no longer deny that she had come to love him in this short time. But what of his feelings for her? He desired her. There was no doubt about that. But she wanted, needed more than to be a desired possession of any man. She was vulnerable now having conceded her feelings to herself. But if Nick were to ever learn that she loved him, it would arm him with more power with which to hurt her. Under no circumstances must he suspect her true feelings, or how deep they really went. What she had felt for Erik four years ago could in no way be compared with what she now felt for Nick. It was so new and almost overpowering in its intensity. Erik had hurt her, but by throwing herself into her work she’d quickly regained her equilibrium mainly because her feelings hadn’t gone as deep as she’d thought. It had been an infatuation; she’d only thought herself to be in love. But Nick had the power to hurt her as she’d never before thought possible. If he were to tire of her, wish to be rid of her for any reason, she would go on living of course. But what kind of a life would it be? The reason for her existence would no longer be there. Nick left shortly for the office. Casey had just returned from a swim in the lake when Rosa called to her
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as she started upstairs to change. “Please. There is a call for you. You may take it in the library.” “Thank you, Rosa.” She couldn’t imagine who would be calling her. Paula maybe. They had talked about getting together. Picking up the receiver she identified herself. “Miss Callahan, my name is Elena. I’m Mr. Santos’ secretary. He has asked me to call. He would like you to join him for lunch.” Elena proceeded to give the name and address of the restaurant. After assuring Elena that she would be there, Casey hurried up to her room to bathe and change. She didn’t think it would be right to wear any of the dresses Tia had insisted they buy, so her choice was quickly narrowed down to her only skirt and matching blouse. She vowed that after her lunch with Nick, she would have to do some more shopping to enlarge her wardrobe. The things Tia purchased she would wear after the wedding. She sighed. Now that she’d accepted her place in Nick’s life, she had to make sure she didn’t disgrace him in any way. She was a few minutes early for lunch and was shown to a secluded table on the far side of the terrace. She had only been seated a short time when Erik slid confidently into the chair next to her. “I’m so glad you could meet me, love,” he said raising her hand to his lips. If he hadn’t taken her by surprise like this, he never would have captured her hand in his. She tried to pry her hand from him but his grip was relentless. “I’m not meeting you,” she vehemently denied. “Nick will be here any moment. Now would you please let go of my hand? I don’t think he will appreciate your being here.” “Your precious Nick knows nothing about our luncheon,” he said grinning. “So you can stop looking for him to come to your rescue this time. He is not going to interrupt us twice in a row.” “Wait until I tell him how you tricked me,” she glowered. Her chest heaved in barely controlled anger.
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“He’s not a man you should defy, Erik. Even you should have realized that.” He did not let go of her hand assuring himself she would not escape. “I wouldn’t say too much to him, love. Afterall, I have my side of the story too, you know.” “What do you mean?” “We’ve shared a great deal in the past. We were going to be married at one time. Perhaps you’re now regretting your hasty involvement with this Greek. Who else would you turn to but an old friend? He’s a perceptive man. He must surely know that sometimes a woman says one thing when she really means quite the opposite. And you’re all alone in a foreign country.” Casey had never disliked anyone as she did Erik at this moment. He was impeccably dressed in a soft gray three-piece suit, the expensive cut fitting him to perfection. But he left her cold. “I don’t think there’s any way he would believe I’d turn to you for any reason, Erik.” All color drained from her face. She wasn’t as confident as she tried to sound. “No? I wouldn’t be too sure,” he said unyieldingly. “All we have to do is sow a seed of doubt. Then sit back and watch it grow. No matter what you say, I don’t think you’ve known each other all that long. And it takes time to build a relationship and trust.” “Are you trying to blackmail me into seeing you? Because if you are, you can just forget it.” How dare he think he could force her into seeing him? Erik had the most oversized ego she’d ever seen. And he was ruthless in getting something he wanted no matter who suffered. All that was important to him was satisfying his wants and needs. He was pathetic as far as she was concerned. He released her hand to settle back into his chair, smiling that smug cruel way she had come to hate. “It doesn’t matter what you and I forget, Casey. It’s what Nick won’t forget…or forgive that matters.” She wasn’t going to wait around to listen to any more of his cruel schemes or threats. Hastily getting to her
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feet, she glared down at him. “I have never disliked anyone in my life as I do you. My condolences to Rachael!” She turned and all but ran from the restaurant. Yannis had driven her to the restaurant with instructions to pick her up in a couple of hours. She stood on the sidewalk wondering what to do. Food no longer held any appeal. But she could do some shopping so she set off down the street looking in the shop windows. She’d gone a couple of blocks when a dress in the window of a small boutique caught her eye. It was a simple ivory colored sleeveless dress with a square neckline. The short lacy jacket had three-quarter length sleeves with small gold buttons. Casey entered the shop to try it on and loved it on sight. It fit her to perfection. It was simple but elegant all at the same time. It was more than she’d ever paid for a dress in her life couldn’t resist it. After looking around the shop, she decided upon a pair of navy silk pants with a long sleeved blouse in navy, red and green. She was smiling to herself when she left the shop in search something to eat. Later that evening she was hesitant about telling Nick of her disastrous afternoon. She couldn’t make a habit of running to him every time something upset her. But then she abhorred the idea of his hearing about it from Erik...or Angela. She could just imagine how they would embellish their version. Better he heard about it from her. But as it turned out, she didn’t have to bring up the subject. Nick did. “I hear you met someone for lunch this afternoon,” he stated calmly, but his appraising look pinned her to the chair. Honesty was always best. So. “Yes, I…at least I was supposed to. But I didn’t stay.” How much did he already know? Oh, let him believe me, she silently prayed. “With whom? I was told I was having lunch with you, something of which I was completely unaware.” He quirked a brow.
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“I thought it was going to be with you too since it was your secretary, Elena, who called to arrange the date,” she stormed at him. She hadn’t done anything wrong and she wasn’t about to be put on the spot for something she had only been stupid enough to believe. How could he sit there so calm and cool? “My secretary is named Elena, but she did not phone you today. She has been on holiday for two weeks.” “I know that now! At least, I realize it obviously wasn’t your office that called.” She sighed. “It was Erik…again, Nick. Why won’t he just leave me alone? He knows we’re supposed to be married and he still harasses me. Now he’s going to try to make you believe I wanted to see him. For comfort, if you can believe that?” She sat with her hands clenched together in her lap. If she didn’t keep them still, she might punch something or someone. Whatever got in her way first had first shot. “I see. And you never thought to question why I would ask my secretary to call? Why I wouldn’t call myself?” She saw a hint of anger in the small white lines around his mouth. “No I didn’t!” she exploded. How dare he question her like this? “You are presumably a very busy man and might naturally delegate a small task like that to someone else.” “I am not a schoolboy, afraid to make my own dates. I prefer to arrange appointments of this nature myself.” He was angry and wasn’t sure why. Was it directed at Erik or at himself for overlooking such a play on the other man’s part? He wouldn’t underestimate him again. “Well, how was I to know that?” her voice rose as temper mounted. “We haven’t known each other long enough for me to acquire any knowledge of your personality quirks. For all I know you might have a mistress tucked away in the city somewhere. I don’t even know your favorite foods or your favorite color. How was
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I to know it wasn’t your office calling?” She was being reckless, but was beyond caring. Ignoring her outburst he scooped her up from her chair. In seconds he pinned her to the sofa, lying so his long hard body pressed close to hers. “I know one important thing you should have learned about me, little bit. What I have, I hold and care for. You are not to see Erik except in my company. And if possible, not even then,” his voice was savage with possession. “You will clear all appointments outside the house with me if there is any doubt as to their authenticity.” Casey struggled to get away from the big body pulsating against hers, knowing it was a futile attempt. “I’m an adult and won’t be treated like a young schoolgirl, being checked up on at all times. And I won’t run to you every time I want to go somewhere to ask your permission. I’ll to where I like and with whoever I like.” She was in no position to argue but that fact hadn’t registered yet. The feel of his big body pressing her down into the sofa had rerouted all rational thought to the back burners of her mind. Suddenly all that she was aware of was that tightening in the center of her being creating a delicious ache she wanted to explore. “I have made my wishes known, little bit. And I expect to be obeyed…especially in this matter of Erik Jefferies.” Giving her no time to reply, he silenced her in the surest, most effective way possible.
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CHAPTER 11
Casey went down to breakfast that morning looking forward to her day. She’d had trouble getting to sleep the night before, as was the norm since meeting Nick. But once she’d come to terms with her situation, she’d finally drifted off into a deep sleep. She was going to marry Nick and no amount of denial on her part was going to change that. And at this point, did she really want to be released from this commitment? No, she had to admit honestly. She’d found someone who cared about her despite her
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background. And there was Tia whom she had come to adore. Nick was already in the morning room eating breakfast when she entered. He looked fabulous in a charcoal gray suit with a white shirt and dark maroon tie. He smiled and stood when she entered. “Good morning, little bit. I hope you slept well,” he said holding out a chair for her. “As a matter of fact I did,” she told him with a smile as she sat down. He leaned down to claim her lips in a brief kiss. He tasted of coffee and sweet buttered toast. At that point she thought he could kiss her forever and she’d never get enough of him. She looked up into his dark eyes wondering at the events that had brought her into his life. “If you keep looking at me that way, little bit, I’ll be tempted to carry you back upstairs and make sure the door is locked so we won’t be disturbed,” Nick told her huskily. How was it that just one look from Casey could send him spiraling out of control? No other woman in his experience had ever effected him like this. He’d been attracted to others over the years, but he’d always been in complete control of the situation and of himself. Casey pulled back to study his face. Was he simply teasing her? Or was he serious? He had to be teasing because he would never do anything to hurt Tia or go against her wishes on something so important. She gave him an impish smile. “I don’t think that would be such a good idea. Tia is my chaperone and, as such, I think she would take you to task if you were to do such a thing. Besides, Rosa is in my room right now.” “I didn’t say it had to be your room.” “Hmm, the library maybe? Or one of the spare rooms?” Casey said thoughtfully. Nick was smiling as he resumed his seat next to her. “I dare say eventually we can manage to test any room you’d like.” He grinned as she blushed.
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“Oh, eat your breakfast,” she said quickly reaching for the toast. “So, what do you and Paula have planned for today?” he asked pouring her a cup of coffee. He was pleased with the developing friendship between her and Paula. Not only because of his long relationship with Andreas but because Paula was an exceptional woman whom he greatly admired. Casey and Paula were alike in many ways; both were unimpressed with money or position; they judged people on the person they were instead of the superficial. Both were intelligent and kind with a terrific sense of humor. Casey’s face lit with anticipation, her smile wide and beaming. “We’re going to do some shopping and some sightseeing. I’m not sure of the itinerary but Paula assured me she’d have it all planned out by the time she got here this morning.” Casey was glad Paula had offered to show her around. She’d looked forward to seeing so much during her stay in Greece and so far hadn’t seen anything except those dress shops. “After we’re married, we’ll take some small trips so you can see more of my country. I’ll arrange for a cruise next month. Maybe we can get Andreas and Paula to come with us if you’d like,” Nick offered. “That sounds wonderful. I could probably give you a three-page list of all the things I’d like to see. It’s so beautiful here and the people are wonderful,” she told him truthfully. Everyone she’d met had been warm and kind. With the exception of Angela but she didn’t really count. “Isn’t Tia coming down to breakfast?” she asked realizing that his aunt wasn’t present and that there wasn’t a place setting for her on the table. Nick grinned. “She’s already eaten and gone to the church to check on the flowers and whatever else she feels needs her personal touch. I’ve never seen her so animated and happy. She said to tell you that your gown will be delivered around five this afternoon and to be sure to be back by then.”
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“I should be back before then. I don’t want to tire Paula by too much walking.” Her wedding gown! She knew Tia’s dress had been delivered yesterday and still was amazed at how quickly everything had come together. Nick had even had some of his secretarial staff phoning the wedding guests. All the invitations were by phone since there wasn’t enough time to print and mail them. “I wouldn’t worry too much about Paula. She’s an avid swimmer and tennis player, so she’s in excellent physical condition. She’ll probably wear you down first,” Nick told her. “That may be, but I bet Andreas watches over her pretty closely,” Casey stated with certainty. Would Nick be that way when they were expecting a baby? She felt her cheeks warm and it had nothing to do with the temperature. Somehow she knew that Nick would be extremely protective. When they’d finished eating Nick asked her to join him in the library. “I have something for you that you’ll need today,” he told her. When they reached the library he went to his desk extracting a wad of bills from the top right drawer. “I want you to buy whatever you want and have a wonderful time.” Casey just stared at the money. “I don’t want your money,” she said backing away. “I can buy my own things if I find something I want.” This just didn’t seem right to be taking his money before they were married. Come to think of it, it would take some getting used to after also. She’d never depended upon anyone to take care of her. Casey looked up at Nick, the impact of the step they were going to take just beginning to register. It was going to change her life in so many ways and that included giving up her independence. She didn’t know if Nick would consent to her working even if she could get a job here. “Casey, tomorrow you will become my wife. It is up to me to see that you have everything that you need. I want you to enjoy your day and this is the least I can do for
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you since I haven’t been able to take time from the office to escort you around.” “I just don’t feel comfortable taking your money,” she persisted. “And you don’t have to feel guilty about working so hard. I know you’re doing it so we can have time together after the wedding.” Nick took her small hand in his, placing the bills in her palm before closing her fingers around the money. “Well at least take it with you, in case of an emergency.” This was the first time in his experience he’d had to force money on a woman. They were usually only too happy to accept whatever he had to offer. He wasn’t about to start an argument over something as petty as money so he decided to wait until they returned from their honeymoon to tell her about the credit cards he’d arranged for her. Paula arrived shortly after. “Where do we start?” she asked Casey as they belted into their seats in her champagne colored Mercedes. Paula looked smart in a deep forest green maternity dress with an empire waist covered by a long flowing ivory vest patterned with lighter green and gold leaves. She wore her hair down around her shoulders in a mass of red curls and the style suited her to perfection. She was glowing and beautiful. “Why don’t I tell you what I’d really like to see and you decide the order since you know your way around Athens?” Casey said leafing through a guidebook. There was so much but she’d managed to narrow it down to only a few. Since she’d be living here, she would see everything in time. And Nick had promised to take her too. “I’ve got to see the Acropolis and the Parthenon and the National Archaeological Museum. And Rosa said something about the Plaka and the Monastiraki. She said I might be able to get some good buys there. But if it’s too much for one day, you tell me,” Casey said concerned for Paula’s condition even though Nick had tried to reassure her on that point. “That sounds great with me. And please don’t pamper me, Casey. I get plenty of that with Andreas. I’m
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not complaining, but the doctor assures me that I’m in excellent condition,” she told Casey smiling. She hadn’t had an outing like this in months and was looking forward to it and to getting to know Casey. “Drive on then,” Casey said waving her hand down the drive. “I put myself in your capable hands.” “Okay. I think we’ll do the museums first since the shopping areas you want to see are all around the Acropolis. We can eat before heading for the Acropolis or at one of the restaurants in that area. I’ll leave that up to you,” Paula said as she set the car in motion. As they drew closer to the city, Casey was grateful that she didn’t have to drive. The streets were confusing to her but Paula seemed to know where she was going and didn’t appear intimidated by the traffic. “You know, I wasn’t sure that Nick would approve of our outing,” Paula said glancing at Casey. “Why wouldn’t he want us to go?” Casey asked puzzled by the remark. “Well, he was so possessive at the dinner party, I wondered if he’d let you out of his sight or out of the house without a chaperone.” “I think that was because of Erik,” Casey said with distaste. “Erik hasn’t exactly endeared himself to Nick. Or to anyone that I can recall come to think about it,” she added as an after-thought. “It’s no wonder. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone as obvious or obnoxious as Erik Jefferies. Do you know that he had a few words with Eleni Metaxas that night?” Paula said heatedly. “He didn’t even know her. What happened?” “Apparently since you weren’t available to him, he approached her about accompanying him around Athens. When she politely told him she was married, he merely said that so was he, but that didn’t have to stop them from having some fun times together. Eleni is so pretty and Kostas dotes on her. She’s normally pretty shy but she
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managed to make it known to Erik that she wasn’t interested.” “Erik is not high on honoring marital vows, his or anyone else’s. But I can’t believe even he would do something as outlandish as proposition a woman upon meeting her. And with her husband in the same room. No, I take that back. I guess nothing surprises me where he’s concerned.” Casey was appalled and wondered if Nick was aware of this incident. If he was, it was understandable why he hadn’t said anything to her. “I don’t know for sure, but I think Kostas got wind of it. And that’s why Erik and Angela left so early. That and the fact that their little ploy to assassinate your character fell on deaf ears.” Paula hadn’t been raised with wealth and was still adapting to her role as the wife of an important businessman. Status meant very little to her. She liked Casey on sight and that was all that mattered to her. “I have to admit that I was glad when they left. I could finally really relax and enjoy myself,” Casey admitted truthfully. “Angela doesn’t like me and we’ve had previous run-ins.” Paula chuckled. “When you put her in her place that night, I wanted to stand up and cheer. And I thought Andreas was going to choke on his drink. I’ve seen her tear a woman to pieces, leaving her almost in tears, then turn all warm and sultry on any man in the immediate area. I can’t think of one woman who can stand to be around her. And certainly none that would call her a friend. Women like her don’t have female friends.” “You sound like you speak from experience,” Casey ventured with growing insight into her new friend. “Actually, Angela did make a play for Andreas shortly before we were married. But he wasn’t fooled, especially after the time Nick had had breaking off his short relationship with her. Andreas never did understand how Nick let himself get involved with her in the first
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place. I don’t think even Nick can answer that question,” Paula said. “Tia called her Mrs. Britton. I take it there’s no Mr. Britton in the picture?” Casey asked. “I believe Mr. Britton was the third husband, an older gentleman who left her very well off when he died. Between her two previous divorce settlements and what she inherited, she's not hurting financially but she’s always looking for number four to add to her list,” Paula said with obvious distaste. “So, just how long have you actually known Nick?” she asked out of the blue. Casey turned to stare. “How did you know?” “Because I’ve been there. I recognized the look. If it’s any comfort, Andreas swept me off my feet, as the saying goes. He didn’t ask me to marry him. He told me we were getting married and even told me the date. And that was the first time we’d met. I barely knew his name and he was mentally planning the wedding invitations,” Paula said smiling at the memory. Casey was astounded. First Tia and her Dimitri and now Paula and Andreas. “Is it something in the drinking water that effects the men?” she asked grinning. Somehow she didn’t feel so alone anymore. “Weren’t you upset or angry at his presumptuous attitude?” “We did have a few words about it at first, but when he kissed me all coherent thought seemed to fly out of the window. Something tells me you’re in the same situation.” “How long had you known each other before your wedding?” Casey wasn’t sure about confiding in Paula just yet. “Twelve days. And Casey, I haven’t regretted a moment since. I grew up in a home where both my parents worked and that was more important to them than me. And they weren’t demonstrative people. So I’m still adjusting to feeling so loved. Andreas is a tactile person and has taught me a great deal about giving and loving,” Paula told her softly as if this was something she didn’t talk about often.
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Casey licked her lips. “Nick and I actually met at the Athens International Airport. He stormed into my life and nothing has been the same since. He’s not like anyone I’ve ever met,” she confessed. “And you love him to distraction,” Paula finished for her. “Does it show?” “Only when you look at him,” Paula said laughing then relented when she saw the appalled look on Casey’s face. “It’s only obvious to me because I’ve been there. It’s the same when I’m around Andreas. Nick will make you happy, I’m sure of it Casey. He’s waited a long time to find you.” “And will I be able to make him happy?” Casey asked more to herself than to Paula. “I have no doubt about it. Oh, don’t get me wrong. He’ll drive you to distraction with his masculine drive to care for you and protect you from everything he thinks might be harmful to you. But when you learn it’s because he loves you very much, you learn to adjust to it. Besides, I don’t think you’ll have any trouble voicing your objections if he gets out of hand.” Paula turned the car into a large parking lot as they reached the first destination on the day’s agenda. Their first stop was the National Archaeological Museum on Patission Avenue. The large nineteenthcentury building was imposing and beautiful. Casey knew from her research that she wouldn’t be able to see everything today that it would take several trips to view all the contents. They paid their admission fees before strolling through the main entrance. Casey had marked a place in one of her books. Directly in front of them was Room 4. “Let’s go in there,” Casey motioned to Paula. “I’ve read about Heinrich Schliemann and his discoveries.” “I was here last year and it is fabulous,” Paula said as they moved forward.
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They spent the next couple of hours studying the various Mycenae objects excavated by Schliemann in 1876, particularly the gold funerary mask he’d erroneously identified as belonging to Agamemnon. No matter to whom it had belonged, the regal splendor of the mask was magnificent. They were fascinated with the detail work on the variety of gold cups from that period. The gold decorations on knives and on the collection of signet rings were extraordinary. Casey could almost picture the skilled artisan working long and hard over each item creating a design of beauty. One she found particularly fascinating was the carving of a lion hunt in inlays of gold and silver on a ceremonial bronze dagger. There were spear-carrying soldiers and an archer rushing to meet the huge charging beast. The delicacy of the work and the time it must have taken boggled her mind. They made their way to Room 15 that was dominated by the large bronze statue of Poseidon dating from about 460 B.C. He was magnificent standing with arms stretched out at his sides in all his masculine glory. The god of the sea and earthquakes stood without his trident. It was said that he lived in a golden palace in the Aegean Sea and when he became angry he used his trident to create huge waves and flooding. He was even more imposing than the pictures Casey had seen of him. A drawing or photo just couldn’t do him justice. They spent some more time exploring near-by rooms, amazed by the workmanship and detail on the various treasures. It was Paula who noticed the time. “No wonder I’m hungry. It’s almost one o’clock.” “Why don’t we find a restaurant near here and after lunch head for the Acropolis?” Casey suggested. “That way we can walk off the lunch by shopping.” They left the museum and Paula found a small but very nice place to eat. Casey looked at the menu and frowned. “I don’t have the slightest idea what to try?” “Do you trust me?” Paula asked.
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“Of course, but no octopus. I don’t think I’m up to that just yet.” “Don’t worry. I don’t think I’ll ever be that hungry. Andreas says its fantastic but I’ll just take his word for it.” When the waiter came, Paula gave their order explaining to Casey about each dish she ordered. They started with Dolmathes, grape leave roll-ups with rice. Paula explained that they were her favorite of the various appetizers on the menu. And she’d been craving them during her pregnancy. Their next course was the usual Greek salad of tomato and cucumber slices with olives and feta cheese with oil and vinegar. By the time their entrée arrived Casey didn’t know if she’d be able to eat another bite. But after one forkful of the Moussaka, a scrumptious eggplant casserole, she didn’t stop until it was gone. If she ate like this all the time, Nick would have to widen the doorways in the house. But everything was so new and delicious. When asked about dessert both were about to pass, then after giving it a second thought, they ordered. Paula had the baklava while Casey opted for kataifi that was made of nuts wrapped in shredded wheat with honey sauce. The portions were small but very satisfying. After lingering over coffee, it was decided they had better head for the Acropolis. Casey stood mesmerized by the age and splendor of the Parthenon. It was one of the temples built on the Acropolis as a shrine to Athena, goddess of wisdom and patron of Athens. Its outer structure consisted of eight Doric columns at each end and seventeen on each side. Casey and Paula marveled at the skill that had created such a structure. It was like viewing the pyramids and speculating on how they could have built such huge structures without modern-day technology. It made the sight all the more spectacular. Their next stop was the Plaka that stretched around the Acropolis. They found a café and stopped to rest and
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have something cold to drink. Casey drank in their surroundings, the narrow streets, single story houses and shops. “Do you want to visit some of the shops here?” Paula asked as they were getting ready to move on. “I’d really like to get something special for Nick and Tia. Are those shops a good place to look or do you have somewhere else in mind?” “The Monastiraki is next to the Plaka, why don’t we go there. I think you’ll like it. It’s a traditional flea market and you can find antiques and traditional handcrafts there,” Paula told her. There’s a lot to see but we don’t have to do it all today. Since you’ll be living here, we can come whenever we like in the future. But I know an area that has some really fine handcrafts.” There was so much to see that Casey was overwhelmed with items to choose from. She finally settled on a beautifully carved old marble chess set for Nick. She knew from their conversations that he loved the game. Tia was harder to buy for. What can you buy for someone who has everything? Casey’s dilemma was finally solved when she spotted some handmade lace shawls. One was exceptionally fragile looking, done in a delicate ivory color yarn with a thin gold thread intermingled. Casey checked her remaining funds and to her delight discovered she had just enough to make this last purchase. She hadn’t brought along the money Nick had given her but had left it in his room on the dresser. By the time Paula dropped Casey off at the house, both women were pleasantly tired. “You be sure to go straight home and get off your feet,” Casey ordered Paula as she got out of the car. “Except for when we ate, I’ve kept you running all day.” “Yes, mother,” Paula said laughing. “I’ll be sure to rest because I need to be in good form for tomorrow.” Andreas was going to do double duty, give the bride away and act as best man while Paula was to be her matron of honor. “See you tomorrow,” Paula said before pulling away from the house.
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“Tomorrow…” Casey muttered as she climbed the steps to the front door. That evening she gave Tia her shawl. “Oh, Casey, it’s lovely and it’s perfect for the cooler evenings.” She gave the young woman a hug and kiss on each cheek. “If you’ll excuse me, I have a phone call to make.” She was anxious to talk to her good friend Sophia and tell her about Casey’s thoughtful gift. Nick opened his gift next, his eyes widening in surprise. He knew she hadn’t taken the money he’d given her and he could tell from the craftsmanship that this was an excellently crafted set. “Thank you, little bit. It’s magnificent. I have several sets but none in marble and certainly none to compare to this.” Casey was delighted that he liked her gift. For some reason it was important to her. “I’m so glad you like it. I wanted to buy you something special. And as soon as I saw it, I knew that was what I was after.” “You didn’t take the money I gave you,” he stated softly. He’d found it shortly after she’d left that morning. “Nick, I couldn’t. Besides, I wanted to buy you something with my own money. Not with yours.” He stood, pulling her into his arms. “That makes your gift all the more precious to me. I will treasure it always.” He kissed her gently on the lips. “Now, I have something for you. I had these made especially for you, so you can’t refuse.” He handed her a small gaily-decorated box. Casey’s hands trembled as she removed the tissue paper. She gasped in surprise at the delicate tear-shaped diamond earrings. “They’re beautiful,” she whispered her throat closing with emotion. No one had ever given her anything like this. Oh, Erik had tried but she hadn’t felt comfortable taking gifts from him. And never had. “I’d like you to wear them tomorrow.”
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Casey smiled up at Nick, unaware of the love shining in her eyes. “Yes,” was all she said as she raised up on tiptoe to press a kiss to his lips. Nick put his arms around her gently drawing her close to his long hard length. He just held her for several seconds savoring the feel of her in his arms. When she looked up at him, he lowered his mouth to hers. Her long lashes fluttered closed just as his lips claimed hers. Casey’s mouth opened under his as a flower to the sun, welcoming his tongue probing and searching her sweet velvet mouth. He kissed her greedily as if she might disappear from his life in the blink of an eye. And Casey was lost in the feel of his powerful body, in the heady sensations his mouth was creating. So it was with some surprise when Nick broke off the kiss, but still held her tightly in his arms. She looked up at him not quite sure what was happening. Then she became aware of his male hardness pressing against her stomach. He kissed her on the forehead and took a step back. “I’ve waited this long to make you mine, little bit. As painful as it is, I can wait just a little longer,” he told her wryly. “Go up to bed and I’ll see you tomorrow. And Casey?” he said as she turned to hurry from the room. “Everything will be fine. I promise.” She could only nod before turning to climb the stairs to her room. As she readied for bed, she didn’t know how she would ever get to sleep with the wedding just hours away. But she was tired. And whether it was all the walking she and Paula had done today or the extra glass of wine over dinner, she was asleep within minutes after her head hit the pillow.
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CHAPTER 12
Casey stirred, snuggling deeper under the covers. Something had disturbed her sleep…something that would have to wait because she was much too comfortable to investigate this unwelcome intrusion. A few minutes later she realized sleep was not going to return no matter how hard she tried, but she was still too drowsy to move. Slowly she opened one eye, then hastily closed it against the bright sunlight streaming through the windows. Who had opened the drapes? Suddenly both eyes popped open as she remembered. Today was her wedding day. The clock on
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the nightstand indicated it was just after eight o’clock. In three hours she would become Mrs. Nicholas Santos! “Good morning, Casey.” She’d been so lost in thought she hadn’t heard Tia at the door. Rosa who carried a breakfast tray closely followed her. “Oh, Tia! Today! What will I do?” The enormity of the step she was about to take finally gave way to the finality of her previous way of life. She knew she loved Nick and desperately wanted to be a good wife to him. But he had never mentioned love. Possession, yes. But never love. He was marrying her to assure his aunt’s peace of mind and to ensure future generations of the Santos family. She would be expected to give him children. As his wife and the mother of his children, she realized she would lack for nothing. Except his love. But would it be enough? Tia appeared to take Casey’s outburst as a bride’s due, giving her nervous ramblings a quiet smile. She sat on the side of the bed and gave Casey a comforting hug. She gently tucked stray strands of hair behind Casey’s ear. “Today you will be married. Not only will you acquire a husband but also a family. I think that is something that has been lacking in your young life. I know Nicholas is an extremely demanding man. He expects a great deal of those working under him and even more from himself. And there have been occasions when I would say he’s been unyielding. But he’s a man in command of a huge business complex and must be strong.” “He certainly likes to get his own way,” Casey couldn’t help replying. But she softened her words with a teasing smile. “Be patient with him, child. Sometimes a man in his position can find life empty and lacking in many ways. It can be very lonely for a man in his position.” “You mean he can never be sure if someone lo..likes him for himself?”
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Tia smiled as she patted Casey’s hand. “You have the power to make him outrageously happy. Or you can make your life and his most uncomfortable.” This did nothing to alleviate her uneasiness. Quite the contrary, it brought all her insecurities into full focus. “Oh, Tia. I want to do what is right.” “You love him very much, don’t you? There is no need to try hiding your true feelings from me. What I can't understand is why you continue to keep this wondrous information from Nicholas. Let me finish,” this as Casey would have interrupted. “I am aware of how you have been hurt in the past. Now you should put all those hurtful images away to make room for the present and the future. Please trust Nicholas and believe he has your happiness and best interest upper most in his mind.” “But everything has happened so fast! Now that we’re so close to being married I…” she said on a sob. “I’m so frightened.” She took a deep breath. “What if I can’t be the wife Nick wants? What if he comes to regret marrying me? What if…” Tia raised a hand to silence Casey’s torrential outpouring of insecurities. “If is such a small word and it carries such indecision. What is if but half of life. Life it meant to be lived not speculated upon.” Tia watched the flow of expression dance across Casey’s face as she tried to digest the older woman’s reasoning. Casey’s mind was racing. Tia was right. She wanted to be with Nick more than anything else in the world. She would have to go slow at first but if she could make him understand her fears about becoming his wife, they could work at building a good marriage. She would make him the best wife he could imagine. Tia read the determination in Casey’s eyes. Then she stood as Rosa placed the breakfast tray before the bride to be. “Now, I want you to forget all your fears and concentrate on making this a day you’ll cherish forever.
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And, you’ll begin by eating this light meal. Then the hairdresser will be here to do your hair.” “The hairdresser?” Casey gasped. She’d just taken a bite of one of Rosa’s delicious rolls and almost choked. “Someone actually comes to the house to do my hair?” “Of course,” Tia smiled down at Casey as if this was a natural occurrence. “You will be perfection from head to toe.” Tia couldn’t suppress a laugh at Casey’s astounded expression. As soon as she had eaten as much as possible, Rosa was there to draw a warm relaxing bath. Not that Casey had much time to take advantage of it. There was a constant stream of people in and out of her room. True to her word, Tia’s hairdresser arrived along with a young girl who applied Casey’s make-up and one to give her a manicure. Royalty couldn’t have been more fussed over. The hairdresser who came to transform Casey’s hair into a work of art, or so he said, was just a few inches taller than she was. He had touches of gray peppered through his dark hair and goatee. He took one look at her long hair and began clucking like a frustrated mother hen, his dark eyes rolling toward the ceiling as if asking for guidance. Her hair was lovely, but there was so much of it! He discarded several styles finally choosing to pile it on top with beads intertwined with the golden strands of hair. It took over an hour to do the job to everyone’s satisfaction. It was almost time to leave for the church when everyone had completed his or her tasks in preparing the bride. Casey felt like something just off the assembly line. Now only Tia and Paula remained to help her into her wedding gown. Standing in front of the full-length mirror, Casey could hardly credit her reflection. The long white gown with its empire waistline and half belt in back emphasized her fragility, while the scoop neckline and long sleeves of lace breathed of femininity. She wore dainty diamond studs in her ears, a gift from Nick, and a cross inset with
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diamonds around her neck. The cross belonged to Tia who asked her to wear it as ‘something old’ as required by tradition. Nick had already left for the church with Andreas who was going to give the bride away. Paula was to be her matron of honor. Gathering the folds of her train and skirt over one arm, she descended the stairs where Yannis waited to take her to the man who was to become her husband. Afterwards, Casey remembered very little of the walk down the aisle on Andreas’s arm or of the guests who filled the small church. Oh, she was aware of them being present but could not have identified one of them if asked. She had eyes for only one man…the one who waited for her at the end of that long walk. Nick wore a gray suit, white shirt and dark gray tie. Her heart threatened to burst with pride at the sight of this big handsome man. Even in a crowd he would stand out, not only because he stood head and shoulders above other men, but also because of his authoritative bearing and the look of supreme confidence he commanded. Andreas placed her small hand in Nick’s as the ceremony began. Nick’s responses came across firm and strong, while hers were just above a whisper. With strong, sure movements Nick placed the wide gold band on the finger of her left hand. But when Casey’s turn came to place the ring on his finger, she could not mask the slight trembling of her hands. They were declared man and wife. Nick lifted the delicate fabric of her veil to claim a kiss from his wife. As he drew the material aside Nick stared for several seconds as if spellbound before covering her lips with his in a kiss that was almost reverent. It was over in seconds and then he was walking her back down the aisle among the smiles and fond wishes of their guests. All except two of the assembled guests were smiling. Erik and Angela looked anything but happy for
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the married couple. Defeat was not something that either one knew how to deal with in a gracious manner. Casey saw them standing side by side and the thought flitted through her mind that she had hopefully seen the last of them. Before she could give it any more thought, she and Nick emerged into the sunlight. Yannis was waiting in front of the church to take them back to the house for the reception. Once inside the car, away from prying eyes, Nick pulled Casey into his arms, crushing her to him. “Never have I seen such a beautiful bride!” His head lowered, his lips worshiping hers in a kiss of ownership, drinking the sweetness from her. He was like a man whose thirst could not be quenched as he rained kisses over her eyes, lips and throat. “You belong to me!” he said in triumph. The roughness of his voice betrayed the passion he was fighting to keep under strict control. “What I have, I hold. And you, little bit, are mine!” His proclamation of possession stirred a profusion of scenes to race through her mind. Pictures of a king-size bed…one huge bed. One she would be expected to share with this impatient husband she’d just accepted as hers. The full impact of what she’d taken on exploded around her. How could she be a real wife to him? Would he understand her reasons if she asked him for a little time? Of course she’d have to tell him the full story of what happened that terrible night, and that was something she was loath to do. There was always the chance he would be totally repelled by her confession. It might be easier to tolerate his lovemaking than any scorn he might subject her to if he knew the truth. “You talk as if I’m a piece of furniture instead of a person,” she said her mind frantically searching for a solution to the impending problem of their lodgings for the night. She pushed against his chest trying to make room to breathe. “I’m a human being with likes and dislikes. Not an inanimate object you can push around.
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He looked confused by her choice of words. “I’m well aware of who and what you are, little bit. You are now my wife and my responsibility. That is something I intend to take very seriously, I assure you.” Before she could protest he placed his large hand over her heart, his long fingers brushing against her breast. “I have your heart in my hand. It is said that once a man possesses his woman’s heart she can never be far from him. So you see, you now belong to me.” “I…” his lips swooped to cover hers once again, effectively silencing anything she would have said. I’ll deal with it later, was her last thought as she melted against him. Once they were back at the house, she and Nick posed for pictures with the other members of the wedding party. After the guests arrived, the photographers were everywhere taking pictures among the throng of laughing people who had come to celebrate with the bride and groom. There was no more time for intimate talk, as the happiness became infectious. Huge buffet tables were laden with a fabulous array of delicacies, but Casey had no idea what she ate. Everyone around her raved about the food but it was tasteless to her in her bewildered state. When Nick claimed her for the first dance, she melted into his arms. He held her close to his long masculine frame, his arms possessive and she was oblivious to everything except his nearness. After the first two dances, they became separated, Nick to dance with Tia and then some of the other ladies. As the man who gave the bride away, Andreas claimed her for a dance only to be claimed by some of Nick’s other friends who held her as she were breakable. And all this under Nick’s watchful eye. And if Erik and Angela put in an appearance, she never saw them. It was several hours later when Nick slipped an arm around her waist and whispered softly in her ear. “Yannis
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has our bags in the car. This is a good time for us to make a getaway.” “But I should change my gown,” she protested. The thought of anything happening to this magnificent dress was unthinkable. Besides, once they left the reception, they would be alone. This frightened her but if she was going to be honest with herself, it excited her at the same time. Would Nick understand? “There is no time, little bit. We have a long drive ahead of us and I’m anxious to have you alone. Even if it is in the close confines of the car.” He took her elbow and led her over to Tia who was chatting with a circle of her friends. After making a tearful good-bye, Nick and Casey escaped to their car. In minutes they were speeding away from the house, away from the safety of her room there. It wasn’t until she and Nick were well away from the estate that Casey turned in her seat to face the man behind the wheel of the powerful car. Her husband! She didn’t even know where he was taking her. “Where are we going? You said it was to be a surprise. But now couldn’t you have me a hint?” She was a bundle of contradictions. She wanted to be alone with him but was still terrified at the thought. He took his eyes off the road for a second to give her a saucy wink. “Since it’s a surprise I shouldn’t tell you a thing, should I? But because you made me so proud today, I’ll give in and explain. I hope you’re not going to be disappointed because we’re going to the mountains. I have a cabin there where we can be completely alone for as long as we wish.” She was delighted. “Oh Nick. That sounds wonderful!” And she meant it. She was going to have to make adjustments and this would be much better than having a bunch of strangers around. “Good. I had thought of Rome or Capri, but these can wait until another time. For now, I want you all to myself with no interruptions. At a hotel we would have
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maids and waiters to deal with not to mention other guests. And then there’s the telephone. But at the cabin, it will be just the two of us. I never thought to ask if you can cook.” Not that it really mattered. Tia had made sure he could take care of himself so he was pretty handy in the kitchen himself although there were not that many people who knew that side of him. Casey could tell by the excitement in his voice just how much he was looking forward to their time alone. He had put aside all cares and thoughts of business to relax and enjoy himself. “Of course I can cook,” she replied in mock indignation deciding to allow his mellow mood to encompass her as well. “That is if you don’t expect anything too fancy.” She was an excellent cook but preferred simple tasty dishes to the more elaborate gourmet foods. “Somehow I don’t think food will matter all that much, little bit,” he drawled. “My hunger doesn’t seem to be for food.” His voice became husky with emotion as he placed his large hand over hers. Her teeth worried her bottom lip. “Nick I…” her voice trailed away as she sought words to convey her apprehension. How could she become his real wife? Suddenly that dark memory, the one she’d kept at bay for so long, but lurking in the shadows of her mind, jumped out demanding to be recognized. Nick felt the slight trembling of her body so close to his. “Afraid?” he asked concern for her apparent in his tone. “No, of course not,” she lied all too quickly. Just a few hours ago she’d taken vows binding her to this man. And here she was trembling at the thought of being completely alone with him where she would be at his mercy. Somehow she knew he wouldn’t hurt her. No. It was the reverse. She could hurt him. It had happened over eight years ago. And in all that time, she’d never discussed that nightmare with
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anyone. That is what could hurt Nick. That was what could prevent her from living with him as a proper wife. “If you’re not afraid, why are you twisting your rings around your finger like that?” As he spoke he pulled the car off to the side of the road and switched off the ignition. “I think we should have a little talk before you wear out those rings,” he said trying to put her at ease. He carried her hands to his lips to still their movement as his eyes searched her pale face. He lifted her chin forcing her to look at him. “I realize I’ve rushed…no bullied you into marriage, Casey. It was something you hadn’t considered, at least for now. I will make no apologies, little bit. I have wanted you from the first time I saw you. And being a man who is used to getting what he wants, when he wants it, my handling of you and the circumstances has been, I admit, self-seeking. “But now that you are legally my wife, we will take this holiday slowly. We’ll make it a time of discovery to really get acquainted.” Nick raked a hand through his hair in a gesture of uncertainty, something so out of character for him. Still Casey could not find words to break the momentary silence. A tiny flame of hope began to flicker. Maybe he would give her more time to come to grips with herself and their new relationship. If she could only bring herself to tell him about Ben. His next words put her completely at ease. “I want you. I’ve never made any secret of that fact. But I give you my word; I’ll not claim my rights as your husband until you’re sure of me…and yourself. Does that make you feel more comfortable about being alone with me?” He was so close in the car, his hard thigh pressed firmly against hers. His fingers caressed the frantically beating pulse at her wrist. “Please understand, Nick. We’ve known each other for such a short time. They say it’s different for a man. I mean, there doesn’t have to be any feelings involved. But
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for me, there has to be more than just a physical attraction. And don’t laugh at me!” she snapped. He was smiling when all she wanted was for him to say he cared for her. If he could at least care about her, maybe she could make him love her with time. She had no doubt he believed her to be an uninformed little innocent. “I’m not laughing at you, little bit. But I am curious as to why you should feel so relieved because you do not have to endure my lovemaking as soon as we arrive at the cabin?” His dark eyes narrowed in contemplation as he waited for her to answer. “I take it from your statement about more than a physical attraction to mean that you are attracted to me. I know how you respond to my kisses; how you melt so deliciously in my arms, so I know I’m not repulsive to you.” At that moment she wanted to shout at him, ‘because I know you don’t love me, that’s why’. Instead she said simply, “because we’ve only known each other a short time. I’m sure you’re well aware of the affect you have on me up to a certain point.” She realized she was being extremely vague with her excuses but this was an alien set of circumstances and she was floundering. And there was that other reason for wanting to delay the physical side of their marriage, the more pregnant of her reasons. But she couldn’t bring herself to discuss this with him. She was too vulnerable having so recently discovered the wonder of her love for Nick. It would have to be later when she felt more comfortable and secure of him and his feelings for her. Right now she wanted him to stop looking at her and just drive. Anything was better than the intimacy of the car. “If we could just drop the subject and get on with our trip? Then we can…get better acquainted.” “All right,” he capitulated. “I’ll let the matter drop for now. And frankly, I believe there’s more to this than you are willing to explain. But the time will come, little bit, and soon when you will become my wife in every sense of the word. And Casey, I do not believe in divorce.” His
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eyes never left her face as he made this declaration. Then he leaned over to kiss the tip of her nose. Without another word, his strong lean hands switched on the ignition as the large car pulled smoothly back onto the road. Neither one seemed inclined to talk after that, but it wasn’t an uncomfortable silence, more of a companionable one. After a few miles, Nick placed a CD in the player. A combination of the events of the day and the soothing music made if difficult for Casey to keep her eyes open.
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CHAPTER 13
Casey was being kissed in the most delightful way as she floated on a wave of contentment. He was warm and gentle. He made her feel special and safe. A contented smile curved her soft warm lips as she tried to open her eyes. Part of her was reluctant to abandon the lethargic wonder of her present state. She tried to focus her eyes but all she could see was darkness surrounded by silence. “You’re a pleasure to awaken, little bit,” Nick’s voice held a hint of laughter and something else she chose to ignore. Recognition of the person so close to her suddenly brought her upright in the seat as she relinquished the warm comfort of Nick’s shoulder. Sometime during their journey she must have leaned against him, her head resting nicely
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on his shoulder. Warmth flooded her face when she realized that all this time she had been sleeping in the curve of his arm. She looked around anxiously, noting the darkness and the undoubted lateness of the hour. “Are we there already? I feel as though I’ve deserted you going to sleep like that. I don’t know what came over me.” Casey was chattering away, saying anything that came into her head. It was so isolated here. Even though there was a full moon, the trees blotted out much of the light. He surprised her with his understanding. “You’ve had quite a day. It’s no wonder you’re worn out. You’ve probably been running on nerves most of the week.” He got out of the car, opening her door as he put a hand beneath her elbow to help her out. “I’ll get you settled inside the cabin and get a nice fire going in the fireplace before I take care of the luggage and the car,” he said as he guided her up the short walkway to the front of the cabin. True to his word, he had a wonderful fire under way in no time. After running a finger down her cheek coming to rest for a second on her lips, he turned and left the cabin. His departure left her feeling alone as if only his presence could make her feel warm again. Casey shook her head to rid herself of such thinking. She chided herself once again for allowing this situation to arise. Then she took the time during his absence to explore the two main rooms. It was enchantingly rustic with one entire wall of the living area dominated by a huge stone fireplace, shelves on either side that were stacked from floor to ceiling with books and assorted decorator objects. The area directly in front of the hearth was covered by a huge thick braided rug done all in earth tones. The furniture was a rich deep brown. The kitchen in the back, although not very large, was compact containing all the modern gadgets to make meal preparation a delight. A quick scan of the cupboards and freezer reassured her that they wouldn’t lack for food.
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The sound of the front door closing interrupted her inspection so she retraced her steps back to the living area where Nick, loaded down with their luggage, was climbing the stairs to the upper level. Presumably the bedrooms were upstairs. Casey followed him up the stairs. “I’ve checked the kitchen and there’s enough food in there to feed an army for weeks. I assume you had something to do with all this organization?” “Of course,” he said matter of factly. “The idea of our having to make frequent trips back down to the village for supplies held no appeal especially since we’re on our honeymoon. Now come, I’ll show you the rest of the cabin.” He continued his way up the stairs as he spoke. By the time Casey reached the top of the stairs, Nick had already deposited the luggage onto the enormous bed. She stopped short at the top of the stairs. There was only the one room, not a couple, as she’d assumed there would be. What she had believed to be a balcony was instead the bedroom. With only the one big bed. To her right were spacious closets; to her left a gold tiled bathroom. The entire outside wall was glass. It was covered with sheer floral curtains and over those, to be drawn for complete privacy, were heavy deep rust colored draperies that matched the thick quilt on the bed. Now it was the monstrous bed that held her gaze. Nervously running the tip of her tongue over her dry lips, she raised her eyes to meet Nick’s dark brooding eyes. “I thought you said we weren’t…that you would give me time to adjust? You just said that to lull me into a false sense of security,” she stormed at him as the floodgates of insecurity opened wide. She was so angry she missed the narrowing of his eyes. “Oh, I should have known better than to trust you.” Nick advanced towards her, his own anger fueling each long stride. Automatically a sense of self-preservation made her back away, but she wasn’t quick enough to evade
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the long fingers that captured and dug into the tender flesh of her upper arms. Her protest was instinctive. “You’re hurting me!” “What do you think you’re doing to me? I should turn you over my knee for what you just implied.” Anger was evident in the darkening of his eyes, the thinning of his lips. He gave her a gentle shake. “I told you to trust me and I meant it, Casey. I am not a patient man by nature. So do not push me too far.” “But there is only one bed,” she said stating the obvious. “And, as you can see, it’s a very large bed. Since we are legally man and wife, no one is going to think badly of you if we share it now.” His fingers released their death grip on her arms, gently rubbing the bruised flesh before he bent his head to place a kiss on each arm. “That’s to make the hurt go away.” She sighed. “You must think I’m being very silly about all this?” indicating the wide bed. One just made for lovers. “I’ve never slept with anyone before. And Nick, everything has happened so fast.” She could feel the tears filling her eyes. Hurriedly she turned her head so he wouldn’t see if they started to fall. What was the matter with her? He had given his word. And from what she knew of him, he was an honorable man. Turning her around in his arms, he studied the various expressions adorning her face, not missing the added shine in her eyes. “If it will make you feel more secure, I’ll sleep on the sofa,” he offered. Then more to himself than to her, “you’re quite unique in this day and age, little bit. It’s obvious that you’ve never known a man in the intimate sense of the word. Most young women today, unless raised in strict families, are well acquainted with the art of love at your age.” “Does it show all that much?” she asked ruefully. He must think her a child, unsophisticated and naive. “Do not dare to apologize for belonging to me alone. You are all the more precious for it.” Didn’t she
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know how much this knowledge meant to him? Someone, meaning Erik Jefferies, had hurt her very much in the past and now Nick would have to deal with the resulting wounds. If he would only say something about love, Casey thought. She would gladly give anything to believe all this was real and not some dream where she would wake to find herself all alone again. Her solitary existence had been acceptable before…but now? “I wasn’t apologizing. There has never been anyone in my life that… meant enough to me. And sex for the sake of it just never entered into it.” This was the last topic she wished to be discussing with Nick under the circumstances. But Nick would not let her move away from him nor was he finished with his inquisition. “Not even with Erik?” He hated to ask but the question was out before he knew what he’d said. “No! Not with Erik or anyone.” Except you, she wanted to be able to say. He was the only man whose touch had not repelled her. Quite the opposite in fact. What was it he’d said about fate? Was she really put here just for one man alone, that man being Nick? These new volcanic sensations he aroused in her by a mere touch were frightening, making her apprehensive about what would naturally follow. His touch left her wanting more, wondering what it would be like to have him make love to her. She wasn’t afraid of his disappointing her. She was terrified of not being woman enough to satisfy him. Hadn’t Erik told her she was lacking? It would destroy her to see a look of disgust on Nick’s face if she should fail him in this way. Damn that Ben! It was all because of him and his…her mind slammed the door on this subject not allowing her to examine it even now. But it was there, waiting. “Could we please change the subject?” “For now, little bit,” he conceded. There was a puzzle about Casey that he was determined to solve.
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“Well, do I sleep on the sofa or not? My fate is in your hands.” Casey glanced over the railing. She noted the dimensions of the sofa and sighed in defeat. She couldn’t in all conscience make him sleep down there. He was a large man so there was no way he would be able to get any rest. And in her growing knowledge of her new husband, she realized he wouldn’t allow her to take his place down there. She looked back at him, at the brooding expression on his face and couldn’t prevent the teasing smile from dimpling her cheek. “No, you don’t have to sleep there. You wouldn’t even be able to stretch out,” she said indicating the short sofa. “And I’m just being overly anxious. You’re absolutely right. There’s no reason for us not to share the bed.” If he only knew what it cost her to make this concession he’d truly appreciate his place in the bed. “Thank you,” he said giving her a mock bow. “I didn’t really look forward to the thought of spending my nights trying to sleep in a fetal position.” To show his appreciation he took her face in his large hands, slowly lowering his lips to hers, so fleeting a kiss as to be almost non-existent. “Now that we have that matter settled, let’s get unpacked. Then we can put your culinary skills to the test.” A smile and an arched eyebrow accompanied the last words. Clearly he was doubting her homemaking abilities already. She smiled as she began to relax under his gentleness and light teasing. There was a warm friendly atmosphere in the room as they quietly worked side by side emptying their suitcases, hanging their clothing in the closet and placing the rest in the various drawers. Casey was amazed at how comfortable and safe she felt in this new sheltered stage of their relationship. Then as she uncovered the last of the items in her suitcase, she froze. Suddenly, without any warning, a low front moved in cooling the atmosphere considerably. “What are these
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doing in here?” she asked holding up a lacy peach colored garment. Nick burst out laughing. It roared from deep within his throat at the outraged expression on Casey’s face as she held up several more sheer, provocatively low-cut, sexy negligees. “I don’t believe those are in my size, so it must be safe to assume they’re meant for you.” He was grinning, enjoying every moment of her latest outrage. She was so adorable when she was angry. “Well, if you put them in my case, you can wear them yourself just the same. Because I will not,” she stated emphatically. “Why they’re…they’re almost indecent and…” she couldn’t think of words to express herself as she waved the filmy articles in front of him. “Sorry to disappoint you, little bit. But I believe Tia had them put there for you.” Casey stopped short. “Tia? She picked these out for me?” A little sheepishly she had to admit that they weren’t really indecent, just much more revealing, more feminine than her usual tee shirt. For someone who shunned clothing that could in any way call attention to her tender curves, these gowns were devastating. “But I can’t wear these!” she protested. “What will you wear instead? I prefer to sleep natural myself.” His words brought a bright flush to her cheeks as she pictured his long naked body next to her in bed. She quickly looked for her tee shirt but it was nowhere to be found. Nick took pity on her. “Don’t fret, little bit. To appease your apparent modest nature I’ll make due with these,” he said holding up a pair of dark blue silk pajamas. Casey eyed them eagerly. “You could be a gentleman and let me have the tops. Nick, I’m just not the type of person to wear things like this,” indicating the much discussed frothy bits of nightwear. He ran a gentle finger down her cheek. “You underestimate yourself, Casey. But that is something you
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must discover for yourself. But in the meantime, you may have the use of the shirt, while I will make due with the pants.” “Thank you,” she replied with a polite nod of her head. “You’re very welcome,” he said mocking her formality. As she hung the last of their clothes in the closet, Nick stowed the cases. “I’ll change in the bathroom to prevent any shock to your modesty. You may have this room all to yourself. Do you need any help getting out of your gown before I leave?” Casey quickly turned her back. “If you could just unhook the back and lower the zipper a little, I think I can manage the rest.” The touch of his hands on her bare back sent flames licking through her limbs. It took every ounce of will power not to give any indication that his nearness was affecting her in the most delicious way. As soon as the bathroom door closed behind him, Casey was out of her gown in seconds. Wearing only the brief silk panties, she slipped into the pajama shirt. To say it was a little large was surely an understatement. The cuffs hung well past her fingertips and the hem to within an inch of her knees. Well, at least she was covered and that was all that concerned her at the moment. Working quickly, she hung up her wedding gown with gentle hands, caressing the fine fabric with loving fingers. Her blue bathrobe had been left behind along with her tee shirt and the filmy robes that matched those pieces of material hanging in the closet would look ridiculous over her present attire. Shrugging her shoulders, she slipped into slippers and made her way down to the kitchen. That’s where Nick found her a short time later. She was opening and closing cupboards, evidently taking inventory. She was so intent on the task before her, she was unaware of her husbands scrutiny. It gave him a few minutes to study her, smiling suddenly as he recalled her reaction to Tia’s gift. He would have to wait to see her
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wear them, but for now, he was just content to watch her in her present nightwear. There was something infinitely appealing about a woman in men’s pajamas, especially the slender length of leg left exposed, while the fullness of the shirt gave a man’s imagination full reign. That same fullness did nothing to camouflage the swell of her firm breasts. As she moved a chair intending to use it to reach one of the upper shelves, Nick hastened forward, placing his hands around her waist he lifted her a foot off the ground before setting her down in front of him. Her startled face took on a look of irritation. “You scared me! Why don’t you make some noise when you come into a room?” She sounded angrier than she really was due more to the sight and feel of his near naked body than to actual fright. He wore only the pajama pants and slippers. His broad chest was covered with a mat of thick dark hair, the muscles of his arms and shoulders were taut beneath her fingers. “You will not climb on furniture like this again. A broken bone would definitely put a damper on our holiday,” he ordered giving her a shake to emphasis his command. For once since their short acquaintance, Casey saw the angry shine in his eyes and recognized the tightness in his voice and decided acquiescence would be the wiser action. She was learning.
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CHAPTER 14
Three hours later, Casey lie wide awake, clinging to her side of the large bed listening to the slow steady breathing that told her Nick was sound asleep. There were at least three feet separating them, but it might as well have been three inches as the warmth from his large body seemed to reach out across that void to envelope her. The urge to curl up next to him was a distressing fantasy Casey tried to ignore. And she couldn’t let herself be thinking about things like intimacy, not until she knew with absolute certainty that Nick loved her. For no matter how hard she tried to ignore the new heady stirrings of her body, her insecurities cried out for love. She lie there, staring at the shadows created on the wall by the graceful movement of the trees outside the window as the implication of this admission made it's full impact. Nick had taken over her life so quickly, so completely with what she could only call a taken protest on her part. She had to accept than now. She had to admit that
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even at their first meeting in the air terminal, a dependency took root…that the love she now felt so strongly for him had been forging a tenacious hold on her heart even then. She reflected on their first evening in the cabin and knew it had been perfect. Nick had gone out of his way to assure her, being attentive but not demanding. It had been a thoroughly enjoyable time with no more reference to their shared relationship. Dinner had been a huge success. They worked side by side in the small kitchen preparing the meal amid laughter and playful teasing as they bantered verbal quips back and forth. Casey completely forgot her nervousness to such a degree that on several occasions had felt free to take a playful punch at Nick in retaliation for some provoked antic. The dishes washed and dried and the kitchen put back in order, they’d spend the remainder of the evening talking in cozy familiarity in front of the fireplace. She finally smiled into her pillow as sleep overcame her concerns. But her sleep was fitful and finally the terrible dream returned. There were voices…familiar voices. Her stepmother and Ben? They shouldn’t be on her honeymoon. Then she was back in the apartment she’d shared with Maggie. She could hear them through the cardboard wall separating the two rooms. Nick couldn’t help her because he wasn’t there. Not again! Please, not again she cried out silently in her dream. In her dream Casey lay huddled under the bedcovers. Someone was coming as footsteps echoed across the sparsely furnished livingroom; doors opened and closed over and over again. With no warning, her room seemed bathed in a dull gray light as Ben towered over her bed, his eyes glowing red with grotesque desire, his face bloated with drink. The room reeked from the stench of over indulgence. Hands reached out touching her, repelling in their harsh disregard for her innocence as she tried to struggle out of their reach. But they kept coming at her no matter how hard she tried to fight them away. They came at her as her arms flayed the air desperate in her tormented desire to
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ward them off. “No! No! Go away!” she cried aloud. Frantically she pushed at the hands gripping her shoulders. The hold was immovable as some unseen voice called out to her, imploring her to wake up. Fighting her way back to consciousness, she forced her eyes open to see Nick leaning over her, lines of concern etched on either side of his mouth. “Wake up, little bit. You’re safe. Nothing will harm you now.” Gently he soothed away her panic, holding her against the safety of his long warm body. “You’ve just had a bad dream.” Her whole body trembled in the aftermath of that dream. “I…I’m sorry to wake you like this,” she whispered as her heart continued to race. “Talk to me, Casey. Sometimes discussing a nightmare will chase away the shadows.” If only she could! “No, I’ll be okay. Really.” She averted her face from his look of disappointment. “Please, go back to sleep, Nick. I don’t usually have this nightmare. Maybe it’s just from being overtired.” He sighed still holding her tightly in the protection of his arms. “I wish you felt you could confide in me, little bit. I hope I wasn’t the one you were fighting off in your nightmare?” “Oh, no. It wasn’t you. I’m sure of that,” she quickly reassured him. The male hardness of his body pressing against her was too intimate after her loathsome dream. “I don’t really remember what it was now that I’m awake,” she lied. “Except I recall thinking that you weren’t there with me.” “Well…if you need me, just reach out and I’ll be here.” He held her a few seconds longer, searching her face. For what? Nick desperately wanted to continue holding her in comfort but something told him that she had to make that decision. Something or someone had terrified her at some prior time in her young life. But she still refused to open up to him. He hoped that she would soon!
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“Thank you, Nick,” she said reluctantly pulling away from his comfort, his warmth. “Good night.” She turned to lie with her back to him once again. The bed moved as he moved to his side of the huge bed. His moving away left her feeling deserted and alone. And it was all her own doing. And she knew it didn’t have to be that way. All she had to do was reach over and… No, not now. Maybe not ever, she silently acknowledged with heartbreaking clarity. The pillow became her anchor as she nestled into its softness, fighting back sobs as tears formed, running down her pale cheeks. She hadn’t experienced that haunted dream for over a year or more. Why did it have to reappear now? Maybe because now was the time for her to come to grips with this fear. There was so much at stake. There was her growing love for Nick and the life they could build together. And she had the chance to make him love her in return. But to do that she had to become his wife in every sense of the word. Behind tightly closed eyes she saw once again that horrible night. Ben’s sweaty, leering face swam back from the dark haze of her memory. She was wide-awake now with no way to halt the terrifying memories of that night eight years ago. The abrupt closing of the apartment door had stirred her from an already restless sleep. Snuggling deeper under the thin covers, she gave a silent sigh of thanks that Ben had finally left for the night. But she couldn’t have been more wrong. It had been her stepmother who’d left, gone out to get another bottle of whatever they’d been drinking. Without any warning her bedroom door slammed open. Ben stood just inside the room staring at her as he’d been doing for days, making her tremble while she’d frantically searched for a means of escape. He’d lunged for her, his hands menacing in their violation of her tender flesh as they tore at her nightgown. He was in a drunken stupor. She fought like a wild animal,
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biting and clawing and kicking until she was free, her chest heaving in fright. He staggered after her as she grabbed some clothing on a chair and ran for the door. Grabbing the lamp on the dresser, she’d hurled it hitting him squarely in the groin area. He slammed to the floor in agony, violent words of loathing streamed almost incoherently from his lips. Hopefully, he would never know just how much he’d affected her emotions and outlook on life. The thought of every having to see him face to face again was unbearable. As for her stepmother, they had never been close. Her desertion had not been something she would ever look back on with regret. In certain ways, Casey’s life had been much easier after Maggie had left. But she had still had to live with the emotional fallout due to Ben’s actions and the effect on her long after he’d disappeared from her life. It wouldn’t be too far off the mark to say she was terrified of the intimacy between a man and a woman. On an intellectual level she understood that there could be great pleasure between a man and woman when there was love. But she’d never gotten that far in a relationship. She just couldn’t tolerate being touched. Whenever a date had tried to get to familiar, his face would seem to change before her eyes. He became Ben. Any man who tried to force her into a relationship soon found himself out in the cold. She would simply refuse to continue the relationship. But all this changed with Nick’s entrance into her life. She wanted to be close to him. But now she was much too tired to try to unravel the reasons for this as she gave herself up to sleep for the second time that night. A pattern quickly emerged to outline the next four days and nights of their stay at the cabin. It was a relaxing time where they talked, exchanged opinions about just about every subject they could think of. And they talked about themselves. It was a time of discovery for each of them. Casey almost opened up to Nick on several occasions, desperately wanting to confide her fears to him.
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She wished she could discuss the nightmare that held her prisoner. It was the one thing that prevented her from going to him to become a real wife. She’d been on the brink of uttering the words that filled her heart and mind. But still unsure of his feelings for her, she was unwilling to walk openly into more hurt and disappointment. So she’d quickly changed the subject before she made a fool of herself. If Nick noticed the slight hesitation before any abrupt change of subject, he wisely said nothing. It was the morning of the fifth day that their relationship began a slow but irrevocable change. Casey awoke feeling snug and comfortable, a band of warmth about her waist. Being reluctant to interrupt this haven of security, she merely cuddled more closely into the accepted shelter. Reaching down to pull the sheet up around her shoulders, her fingers encountered the source of the warmth about her waist. The arm that lay so casually across her became taut as she tried to turn away. In stunned silence she peered up through thick lashes into the dark eyes of her husband. Sometime during the night she’d unconsciously made her way to Nick’s side of the bed. She’d slept cradled in his strong arms for hours. Silence echoed around the sun-kissed room as their eyes locked in time suspended. A time during which something very real, but unseen, passed between them. Nick’s eyes darkened with unleashed passion, an emotion he had been so careful to deny himself these last days and nights. To her dismay, Casey found she had no desire to pull away as Nick’s head descended, almost as in a dream, blocking out the morning light, blocking out all thought of everything except his nearness. His lips covered hers, hard and sensuous but gentle. Then sensing her response his mouth became more demanding, drinking in all the enchantment and tenderness her delicious lips had to offer. His hands burned a path under her pajama shirt, stroking the bare flesh of her back before hungrily seeking her small firm breasts, their nipples
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hardened by the mounting passion she was unable to control. His hand cupped her tender breast as he buried his face in the vulnerable curve of her throat; his lips arousing sensations she’d never experienced before. She was cloaked in languorous warmth overriding all fear and common sense. She could feel the long hard strength of his body as it pressed her back into the mattress. There was no mistaking his need as his arousal pressed against her thigh. “My Casey,” he groaned harshly against her lips. “You’re beautiful!” His mouth hungrily sought hers once again, relentlessly coaxing a response from her. He was intent on surrender, her innocence forgotten as rational thought was lost in a rainbow of sensual fervor. His passion soared fully aroused. He covered her face with kisses, seeking the sensitive hollow of her neck as he undid the top buttons of the pajama top. His lips ignited a blazing trail of erotic sensation as they moved down to seek the sweet hollow between her lush tender breasts. “I need you, little bit! I want you to distraction!” he rasped. It seemed as if he’d waited forever for this moment. He’d wanted her from the first moment he’d seen her at the airport. He’d known women who were more beautiful, tall with long willowy legs and certainly more experienced. But he’d been drawn to her clean wholesome beauty with her beautiful smile and gentle nature. He had immediately recognized her as the one woman who could complete his life, who was made just for him. And now she was his! Casey’s fingers meshed in the soft thickness of Nick’s black hair. She felt no fear at his touch. Not like with Erik. She wasn’t repelled by his kisses. She was quickly losing herself to the pleasure of Nick’s kisses, the unbelievable delight of his hands on her body. She felt the most astonishing coil of desire flame to life, pulsing at the very center of her being. She was lost to this new sensation, only aware of the feel of Nick’s body over her. The feel of his hair roughened chest against her breasts
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added to her pleasure, as did his long legs entwined with hers. When his words finally penetrated her sensual pleasure, her hands stilled. His words of want sent reality surging back into focus. His words said in the heat of passion had been of need and want. But he said nothing about love. No love, just a physical need. Of its own volition, her yielding body went rigid under his. What had she done? Nick continued making love to Casey in an attempt to bring back the short moments before when she’d been so warm and willing in his arms. But as she continued to resist him, he finally raised his dark desire filled eyes to look down at her questioningly. To her humiliation, tears overflowed slowly trailing down her flushed cheeks. Nick just stared as the sound of his ragged breathing filed the room. She was first to speak, to break the heavy silence. Her voice was no more than a whisper, but he heard her. “Please, Nick. You promised,” she said reminding him of his word to give her time to adjust to him and to their marriage. To her utter dismay, his voice was savage with denied hunger. “I said I would give you time to get used to the idea of sharing your life with me, Casey. Just now, you have gave every impression of wanting me as much as I want you.” Want, want! Why couldn’t he use the word love, she agonized inwardly. “I didn’t mean…it wasn’t what you thought,” she lied. To her added frustration, tears ran freely now. “I am not an inexperienced youth, Casey,” he said harshly. He was angry. Gone was the considerate, warm lover of minutes ago. “I am quite able to recognize the signs of a woman who is eager and willing to make love. And also, when she is not.” Lips that had rested to warmly, so possessively on hers such a short time ago were drawn
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into a thin line. Small white creases of either side of his mouth were added proof of his rising anger. “I just ca…can’t,” she stammered. Not without love, she desperately wanted to shout at him. If she were to ask him to say those words, they would be meaningless, because if he had to be coaxed to say them, they would have no value. Besides, how much more devastated would she be if he were to actually tell her that love didn’t enter into their relationship? She was being a coward and she knew it. Nick took a deep breath. “Then I’ll leave you to your teasing games or whatever you’re playing at.” Those harsh words were thrown over his shoulder as in one lithe movement he heaved himself off the bed, reaching for his robe. He shoved his arms into the sleeves with such force, Casey cringed at the unleashed violence emanating from him. “I wasn’t teasing, Nick,” Casey implored him. “It’s so hard to explain.” Her voice didn’t seem to make any impression until he reached the bathroom door. Then he turned to stare coldly at her from across the void separating them. “Maybe I’m not interested in any explanations. Not now!” With that, the door slammed shut, silencing anything she might have been about to say. That solid door separating them represented an insurmountable barrier. Suddenly Casey was overcome with an ache so intense, it was numbing, leaving her unable to feel anything for long minutes. Erik’s brutal rejection had been a minor incident compared with the emptiness threatening to overwhelm her as heartfelt pain began an insidious assault on her senses. Casey had to get busy doing something, anything to stop her tears. Under the circumstances, the last thing she wanted or could tolerate was for Nick to witness any more of her tears. She quickly slid from the bed. Hastily she pulled on a pair of jeans and tee shirt and slipped her feet into a pair of canvas shoes. Before leaving the room, she
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quickly made the bed. Her hands were trembling as she smoothed the covers.
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CHAPTER 15
Her retreat to the kitchen may have shut out the sound of the shower running upstairs, but nothing would ever shut out the sound of Nick’s voice. Or the angry words he’d thrown at her before leaving the room. Those words played over and over in her mind like a record with the needle stuck in a groove. She couldn’t really fault him for thinking what he did. For a short time, she had forgotten everything but Nick, the sensual closeness of his long hard body so close to hers, and she had wanted him with a fierceness that had shocked her to the core. She’d wanted him as her husband. But she hadn’t done it intentionally. She hadn’t rejected him because she was done toying with his emotions. It had gone so much deeper. Her hands worked without conscious thought on her part as she prepared breakfast. She had no idea if he even wanted anything to eat. As for herself, she didn’t know if she would be able to get anything past the monstrous lump in her throat. By the time Nick put in an appearance, dressed in jeans and a knit shirt, the table had been set, a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice at each setting and a cup of hot coffee by his plate.
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“Thank you,” was all he said when she placed a hot plate of eggs, bacon and toast in front of him. At first they ate in silence, gone were the happy chatter, shared smiles and warmth of their previous meals. Casey ached to get them back on that friendly footing, but was at a loss where or how to re-establish their former camaraderie. Fear of further rejection made her hesitate. Surprisingly, it was Nick who took the initiative to break their uncomfortable silence. While his tone was none too warm, it had lost the harshness of their earlier encounter upstairs. “If we’re going to hike up to the falls, we had better get packed and leave soon.” She took small comfort in the fact Nick hadn’t forgotten her desire to make the trip to the falls. “I thought we’d take bread and cheese and some fresh fruit for lunch,” Casey said, pleased that her voice sounded quite normal. Even discussing a menu was better than staring woodenly at each other. But she was no longer feeling at ease in his company. If Nick noticed her uneasiness, he gave no indication. He merely nodded as he slide his chair back into place after rising to his feet. “I’ll get the back packs while you clear up here in the kitchen. You’ll need a jacket and if you want to swim, put your bathing suit on under your clothes.” He’d hoped they would have been swimming in the clear pool beneath the falls but swimsuits hadn’t been part of his plans. That had all changed now. Nick wasn’t by nature a patient man when it came to something he greatly desired. He wasn’t reckless by any means. He was a man of action and usually went after what he wanted. But Casey had him tied up in knots. If he took the time to analyze his mood, he’d realize his anger was directed more at himself than at Casey. He knew she wasn’t ready for a real relationship yet and berated himself more than once over his own lack of control upstairs. He’d give her some space, as much time as she needed to get used to him. And so help him, he’d find the self-control somewhere.
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Casey only nodded. She couldn’t have said a word if her life had depended on it. This current strained atmosphere was all her doing. If she weren’t such a coward none of this would have happened. She gathered up the dishes and hurried to the sink. She took her frustrations out on the porcelain, scrubbing as if the action would rid her of the sense of loss overtaking her composure. Later, once they were out on the trail heading towards the falls, Casey couldn’t keep quiet, asking questions about their locale and their destination. She kept up a constant stream of verbal gibberish in an effort to win back her husbands good mood. The day grew warmer as the suns rays penetrated the over-handing limbs of the trees lining their trail. Nick’s mood also seemed to improve. By the time they reached the falls, Nick was talking freely once again. While his voice might not be the verbal caress it had been before this mornings-unfortunate encounter, at least the harshness was missing. He answered all her questions, voluntarily offering information about the region. At the base of the narrow falls there was a small pool surrounded by lovely green foliage and masses of flowers that created a breath-taking riot of color, a real living rainbow. It was here that they spread a blanket to have lunch. After clearing up from their luncheon, Casey sat on the blanket eyeing the clear deep pool with longing. She knew the water would be cold, but the water was so clear it would be like swimming in their own private pool. Nick noticed Casey looking at the water and had to fight back a smile. He’d been swimming here since his uncle first brought him years ago. It had drawn him the first time just as he saw it pulling on Casey right now. “Would you like to go for a swim? I should warn you that the water is pretty cold. But once you’re in, it’s wonderful.”
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Casey grinned up at him. “I’d love to. I don’t think I’ve ever seen water that clear before. Do you come here often?” “I use to before work seemed to take over. Now it’s only once in a while, certainly not as often as I’d like. I think I was about six years old the first time my Uncle Dimitri brought me here. I plunged into the pool before he could warn me of the cold water. I learned a good lesson that day about looking before I leap into something.” Nick’s features softened as he talked obviously remembering wonderful times with his family. How Casey envied him his memories! She didn’t really have any family since Maggie had only been her stepmother and had not truly cared about her young charge. Not all of her childhood memories were bad ones, just not warm family-type ones of most people. As Nick spoke he unbuttoned his shirt to remove it. Casey had done as he’d instructed and put her swimsuit on under her jeans. Feeling a bit self-conscious but determined not to let Nick know it, she began to take off her shirt and jeans. Her suit was a teal one piece, rather plain and most certainly not in anyway provocative. Nick’s, on the other hand, were brief and showed off his magnificent body. Casey didn’t know where to look. If she looked straight ahead all she saw was a broad chest, well defined with the covering a covering of dark hair and long muscled arms that proved he either did a great deal of manual work or worked out on a regular basis. His long thick legs confronted if she looked down. He was deeply tanned and she didn’t think there was a bit of fat on the man. Nick took note of her discomfort and delighted in it. Unfortunately, if he stood there too long looking at her, she would really have something to blush about. Then he would be blushing. He’d seen women in skimpy swimsuit, nothing more than strings really, but Casey was more beautiful standing there in front of him than any other woman he could imagine. She wasn’t very tall and
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probably weighed half of what he weighed, but she was exquisitely proportioned. She was lightly tanned with not a blemish to mar her creamy skin. As he knew from experience, her skin was like silk to touch and smelled of the soft floral scent to prefer to wear. Taking a deep breath, Nick stepped aside to lead the way down to the pool. “Here, take my hand,” he said as he turned to help Casey over the first bolder. The way down wasn’t too steep but it could be a bit slippery from the spray from the falls. Once they reached the rim of the pool, he turned to Casey and grinned. “Take my word for it, the only way to get in is to dive. Once you’re in, you won’t notice the cold.” So saying, he turned and dove into the clear water. Casey stood for a few seconds longer, then, she too dived into the water. She came up sputtering. “It’s so cold!” she squealed. Nick, treading water a foot away from her laughed. “Get moving and you won’t notice it.” He turned and started swimming for the falls, a narrow band of water dropping from about twenty feet above. Casey marveled at his male beauty, his long muscled arms pushing through the water pulling him closer to the falling water. Then she started swimming after him. She knew how to swim and could keep herself afloat but what she lacked in style she made up for with enthusiasm. Once Nick reached the falling water, he climbed up onto a shelf to wait for Casey. He sat waist deep in water with the falls directly behind him. He grinned at her chopping through the water. Her technique might not be clean and graceful but it got her where she wanted to go. When she reached him, he held out his hand to help her up. “That was wonderful!” she gasped grinning up at him. “I could swim here everyday and never tire of it.” “In the winter months it might get to be a little too cold for even you, little bit,” he told her trying to keep from laughing. She was sitting with her thigh pressed against
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his. He didn’t know if she was aware of the contact, but he certainly was. He’d told himself he would keep this day as pleasant as possible and not make any advances towards her. He’d give her the time she seemed to need to adjust to their new relationship. At least he hoped “When I was growing up, we had to swim in public swimming pools. They were usually so crowded that you couldn’t take more than a couple of strokes before you’d bump into someone. This is really great. You can swim back and forth and not hit anyone.” Casey made the mistake in looking up at Nick as she spoke. What she saw in his eyes made her catch her breath. The heat in his eyes held her captive as she saw his hand raise to touch her face. Nick had meant to keep his word. He really had. But from what he’d learned about Casey so far, it was apparent that she had not had an easy time of it growing up. There was so much he wanted to do for her, to protect her, to cherish her and to make her so happy and content that she’d never even give a thought to returning home. His hand cupped her chin raising her lips to his. He lowered his mouth to cover hers, tentative at first, then harder when she didn’t draw away. His other hand went to the back of her head to draw her closer against his chest. When she sighed he opened his mouth over hers encouraging her to allow him entry. His tongue caressed her bottom lip before plunging in to trace the outline of the roof of her mouth tasting the wine they’d had at lunch. She tasted of wine and sun, her skin was still wet from the swim but warming in the sun. His hand moved from her chin to her throat where he felt her pulse beating unusually fast. Then his fingers moved with feather-like strokes across the swell of her breasts. When she didn’t resist, he cupped a small full breast in his hand feeling the nipple harden into a knot under his touch. Casey was lost to everything around her except Nick and the feelings he was arousing in her. Feelings she’d never experienced before and never thought she would. His body was so hard and warm next to hers.
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When his kiss deepened she was ready or so she thought. When his tongue met hers in a duel of taste and touch, a spiral of pleasure began to coil in the pit of her stomach. She could only think to get closer to him, to increase this wonderful feeling. Then his hand covered her breast and that sense of panic peeked out from behind her defenses demanding to be recognized. Suddenly it wasn’t Nick, but Ben who was groping her, whose breath almost overcame her with the alcohol smell. The next instant she was pushing Nick’s hand away. She couldn’t even look at him. “I think I’d like to get dressed now,” she said in a rush as she slid into the water. She didn’t look back until she climbed out and began to dry off with a thick towel. When she did turn around, Nick was swimming back and forth across the pool with long strokes. He didn’t stop for some time and must have made at least a dozen or more loops before he climbed out. He didn’t say a word but dried off before dressing. She knew it was all her fault again, but was at a loss how to make things right. A small voice in the back of her mind told her to talk to him. Tell him about Ben and that night. That Nick would understand. But it was so hard to even think about it let alone talk about that time to another person. To say that Nick was frustrated was an understatement. Nick was experienced enough to tell when a woman wanted him and it wasn’t conceit on his part. He’d had women throwing themselves at him since he was eighteen years old. And he would bet any amount of money that Casey wasn’t faking her response to him. But something was troubling her, making her pull back from him. He didn’t know how much more he could stand. If only she would open up to him, tell him what was bothering her. The walk back to the cabin was silent, each lost in their own thoughts. It was just before six when they arrived back at the cabin. The setting sun painted the sky deep purple and pink. Even the very air they breathed seemed to have a color all its own.
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As Casey washed up and put away the picnic gear, Nick built a fire in the large fireplace. The night, while not really cold as yet, still held a definite chill without some artificial warmth. With the fire going to his satisfaction, Nick adjusted the protective screen on the hearth then stood staring into the dancing flames. He was frowning and seemed lost in thought as Casey approached him a few minutes later. Before she had a chance to say anything, Nick swung around walking away from her towards the door. He snatched his jacket off the coat rack, jamming his arms into the sleeves with unnecessary force. “I’ve got to run down to the village. I’ll be back shortly.” “Do you want me to come with you? I didn’t really get much of a chance to see it the day we arrived.” Casey didn’t want to stay there alone. Not because she was afraid of the dark or being alone. She just wanted to be with Nick. To her dismay, he shook his head not even giving her suggestion a moments thought. “No. I just have to make a phone call. You can decide about dinner while I’m gone. I should be back before it’s ready.” Without any more discussion, before she could protest or utter another word, he was gone. The door closed firmly behind his retreating figure.
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CHAPTER 16
Casey heard a car door slam then an engine roared to life. Still she didn’t move as tears overflowed trailing down her pale cheeks as a chill enveloped her from within. Nick still hadn’t forgiven her for this morning. And she’d made matters worse by her behavior at the pool by the falls. He must truly believe she’d deliberately aroused him, led him on only to pull away at the last minute. There was a name for women like that. He thought she was a tease. Her cheeks grew warm with embarrassment as she considered her actions. Would he even believe her if she told him how she really felt about him? Would he believe she loved him as she’d never thought herself able? Oh, how he must be regretting their marriage already. And who could blame him? He was a warm, intelligent, virile man who had taken a wife but who was constantly being denied any rights as a husband. Casey sighed at her own stupidity, wiping her eyes with the backs of her hands. Why hadn’t she trusted him and accepted what he was willing to give her? While he might not love her, it was close. And she could love him, be near him and give him the children he so obviously wanted. And wouldn’t being the mother of his children put her in a special place in his heart? Maybe in time he could come to feel something stronger for her than just desire. Standing motionless in the middle of the quiet cabin gave her mind free reign to wander as her imagination conjured up a kaleidoscope of painful pictures. Who could he be calling? And why? He’d said they were to be
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completely cut off from the outside word during their stay here. Why did Angela’s face take shape in her mind? Casey shivered in the warm room. Her heart ached with the shattering vision of Nick deserting her. Maggie had walked out on her and they had had a long- standing relationship, maybe not a good one but a relationship all the same. In the next instant she knew he would never stoop to something as underhanded as leaving her up here all on her own. The realization that he’d already deserted her emotionally made her tears flow as she covered her face with trembling hands. As the tears finally slowed to a trickle, she knew she had to get busy in an attempt to take her mind off Nick and whom he was calling. Besides, if she were doing something for him, it would make the time pass more rapidly. Maybe she could pretend he was still in the cabin. A short time later, dinner was cooking in the oven filling the cabin with a delicious aroma. Casey had showered and changed…hesitating mere seconds before taking one of the gowns Tia had packed for her out of the closet. She would accept Nick on any terms, she knew that beyond any shadow of a doubt now. There would be no turning back for her…maybe if they had a son, he would come to love her. If only it wasn’t too late. Her gown was pale aqua with white lace trim, sleeveless with lace straps holding up the deeply cut bodice. The long skirt swirled softly around her ankles as she walked. The vee front bodice had wide lace inserts leaving glimpses of the creamy curves of her breasts to tantalize the eye. She had never worn anything remotely like it before. On one hand it made her feel even more vulnerable than before, but at least with the matching robe her tender modesty was somewhat appeased even if what the robe didn’t cover in the front did hint openly at what lie beneath. Casey studied herself in the full-length mirror for several minutes. What would Nick think when he returned? Would he like her in this gown? She
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remembered the look on his face the night she’d worn her black dress and shivered. If only he would look at her like that again with his dark eyes blazing with appreciation, with a warmth she’d avoided all these years. Just the thought of Nick kissing her as he had that night made her stomach muscles tighten, her breathing quicken. She wanted her husband in a way she never would have contemplated before she’d left for her vacation. It couldn’t be too late! It just couldn’t, she thought in panic. Nick had been gone almost an hour when the first of the rain began to fall. Casey had been so busy with dinner and then lost in her fanciful world that she’d been unaware of the approaching storm until it was directly overhead. The first rumblings of thunder and the rhythmic patter of rain on the roof sent her scurrying to the windows overlooking the front of the cabin. As she stood staring out into the darkness outside, her outline silhouetted in the window, lightning lit up the sky. In the blink of an eye the heavens became a shattered mirror with luminous jagged lines scattering in every direction, followed soon after by an earth- shaking roar of thunder. The rain came softly at first, a gentle patter on the roof but rapidly escalating into a thunderous downpour, a howling wind pounding it against the windowpanes. Soon the wind and rain reached such proportions where Casey couldn’t see anything beyond the front porch. And still Nick had not returned. Casey quickly assumed that he must be stranded somewhere until the storm passed. Surely he wouldn’t attempt to drive in this weather? She was safe and dry unless the roof decided to cave in on her, she thought with an unsuccessful attempt at humor. Her mood was already low and sinking rapidly. She was not afraid of storms, but the thought of Nick out there in that vast expanse of darkness was making her restless. She could only sit for short periods of time before she’d jump up to pace from one window to the next, all the time praying she would see the headlights from his car.
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As the wind died to a gentle breeze and the rain to a mild shower, her uneasiness lessened. But still she was unable to do anything but pace the floor. If he didn’t return soon, she’d have a rut worn in the floor around the windows. As the time flew by, two hours and then three and still no sign of Nick, Casey was almost beside herself with worry. What if he had tried to drive during the height of the storm? What if he’d had an accident? The road leading to the cabin was totally isolated and completely dark at night. There would be no one to find him since no one else used that road. There would be no other cars passing by to discover an accident. Her first instinct was to dress and set out on foot. But it was so dark and there was still the rain to contend with. She’d need some kind of light and a small flashlight wouldn’t be much good in this dark. It would be too easy to overlook anyone if they’d run off the road into the trees or underbrush. Another twenty minutes dragged by as anxiety built to a screaming pitch. She had to do something even if it was wrong. She quickly decided upon a plan of action. She just couldn’t stay in this nice warm cabin and do nothing. If Nick was hurt out there, she would find him if it took her all night. She’d taken only two steps up the stairs to change when she heard the unmistakable sound of the steady hum of a car’s engine. Her shoulders slumped in relief. Had anything ever sounded so beautiful? Her small bare feet fairly flew across the room to the door stopping just short as it burst open as Nick slammed into the room. Her relief at having him back safely at last and all in one piece was apparent in her voice. “Oh, Nick! Where have you been? I’ve been out of my mind with worry.” Her loving eyes practically devoured his soaked hair, dripping wet face and mud drenched clothing. He peeled off his sodden jacket and hung it over the back of a chair. He didn’t say anything until he sat to
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remove his muddy shoes. “Would you believe a flat tire? And in this weather. I had just gotten out to change the damn thing when that deluge broke loose. Then I had to wait until it let up before I could do a thing about the tire. I’ve spent all this time wallowing in mud attempting to fix one lousy tire.” “You must be chilled right through. Go take a nice hot shower while I get you something warm to eat. And Nick? I…I’ll make it nice and hot and as quick as I can,” Casey stammered, shy now that he was actually in the room with her. She turned to go to the kitchen as she spoke missing the speculative look on Nick’s face. “I’ll be down in ten minutes,” he said going toward the stairs. His eyes followed her retreating figure as he started upstairs. A thoughtful look creased his brow. Then a smile lifted the corners of his mouth. She’d missed him and had been concerned for his safety. Maybe she was ready to admit that she was beginning to care a little for him. The dinner Casey had prepared earlier was completely ruined, so she quickly fixed some appetizing sandwiches to go with the mug of steaming hot soup and coffee. She carried the tray into the living area and placed it on the low table next to the sofa. The fire Nick had started before leaving was till going strong helped by the additional logs she’d added during his absence. She smiled to herself. He could relax and eat by the warming fire. She’d just gone back into the kitchen for some napkins when she heard a sickening thud and then a low moan. Hiking up the long gown, she raced into the other room to find Nick sprawled on his back at the foot of the stairs. His eyes were closed . “Nick!” His name was a tormented cry ripped from her throat. In an instant she was bending over his motionless body running her hands along his muscled arms and down his long thick legs checking for broken bones. Her heart threatened to hammer its way from her chest. In
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its place a huge weight was gathering mass as if someone were placing large boulders there. She remembered reading that you weren’t suppose to move anyone who had had a nasty fall. Besides, she couldn’t move him by herself. He was much too heavy for her puny strength. His breathing appeared steady and unlabored which had to be a good sign. Or so she hoped. All during her examination Casey kept talking to him, saying all the words she’d longed to say since their wedding. Things she’d been so afraid to acknowledge verbally before. What did anything that had happened in the past matter when you loved a man as Casey loved Nick? So she was saying those words now as if it would help Nick to regain consciousness. Even if her words meant nothing to him, she had to let him know just how much she loved and wanted him. Wanted to be his wife…his real complete wife. “Nick, please wake up. Oh, I do love you so much. I really did want you to make love to me this morning, but I was frightened. I realize now how foolish I was but I’ve always been afraid of being touched, of…of a real relationship between a man and a woman.” She was rambling, each word almost a sob. “But you’re different and…” A strong cool hand clamping around her wrist brought an abrupt halt to her torrent of affections and explanations. When she looked down into Nick’s face her breath caught in her throat. His eyes were as dark as the night surrounding the cabin with a flame igniting in their depths as soundlessly he pulled her down onto his chest. “Finally, my little bit, you have said the words I’ve so longed to hear from your lips.” He pulled her head down to his, his mouth on hers, devouring, and punishing for the way she’d made him wait. Casey was breathless and dazed by his ardor when he finally released her lips. The soft curves of her body were crushed and molded to the hardness of his as she lay on top of him.
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The reality of the situation finally penetrated through to her brain. He wasn’t hurt. “You tricked me! Do you know how frightened I was? Don’t you ever do anything like this again! Do you hear me?” she shouted at him trying to get up. He’d faked that fall down the stairs. Her feeble protest at his deceit was only a minor attempt and was easily swept away as Nick rolled over pinning her beneath him on the floor. Seconds ticked by as they gazed lovingly at each other, at last sharing a common bond. No words were needed as Casey gently reached up tracing the contours of Nick’s face with a loving touch. “I would have done anything to hear you say those words, my Casey,” Nick said hoarsely. With a hand that trembled slightly, he pushed aside the material of her robe, kissing the sensitive place behind her ear, her throat and her shoulders. She smelled of floral gardens, her skin soft next to his. He’d heard a great deal in the words she’d poured out to him when she thought him unconscious. He would have to teach her, to guide her, but most of all, he’d have to gain her trust as he made her his wife. Nick’s robe had come apart revealing the wide expanse of muscled chest with its mat of thick dark hair. Casey did now what she’d wanted to do at the pool. She ran her hands over his chest to the curve of his broad shoulders. As he lowered his head to take her lips once more, there was no resistance left in her. All her carefully erected barriers had been swept away. As his kiss deepened promising a plateau never before imagined, her arms tightened around his neck. In one lithe movement, Nick was on his feet with Casey nestled in his arms as he mounted the stairs as effortlessly as if he carried a small child. He strode purposefully into the bedroom towards the bed. Casey wound her arms around the strong column of his neck, her head resting contentedly on his shoulder. All thought of food had been entirely erased from their minds.
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Nick stopped just short of the bed, letting Casey slide to the floor directly in front of him. His eyes held hers as he shrugged out of his robe letting it fall to the floor. He was completely naked under the robe. “I love you, little bit. I have loved you in all the yesterdays and will love you throughout eternity!” His voice was low, husky with barely controlled emotion as he undid the tie to her robe letting the garment join his on the floor at their feet. His eyes smoldered as her astounding beauty was being revealed to him little by little. Her lips were slightly parted from the onslaught of his kisses. Gently as if she were something infinitely precious, he picked her up and lay her on the bed, his arms tender as he took his place next to her on the bed drawing her into the haven of his embrace. “Please hold me, Nick. I’ve wanted to tell you how much I love you but I’ve been afraid. I didn’t think you loved me. And I desperately wanted to be more than just a physical release for you.” He knew there was more to it than that and was prepared to let her tell him at her own pace. “If I had told you of my love earlier, would you have believed me, little bit?” “I don’t know.” A slight pause. “Probably not,” she told him honestly. “I thought not. And I didn’t lie when I said we’d met in Rome, because in a sense we did.” Ignoring her startled look in continued. “I was meeting someone at the airport that day and as I leaned over the railing to look below, I saw you. You had a small child in your lap. It was a little boy and he’d pulled your hair around your shoulders, playing hide and seek as he draped it over his head. I couldn’t take my eyes from you, little bit. You were so incredibly beautiful and gentle with that child. I was also filled with jealousy for the man who’d fathered that child until I realized he wasn’t yours.”
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“I remember that,” she gasped because his fingers were tracing paths of delicious excitement along her shoulders and down her arms. “That little boy, Peter, belonged to someone I’d met on the plane. I was just watching him while she checked on a connecting flight.” She grinned up at him, the wonder of love filling her eyes. “By the time I’d worked my way to the lower level, you had disappeared. I searched that terminal from one end to the other, but you’d vanished without a trace.” He’d actually made three trips around the terminal and was sure the security guards were becoming suspicious of him by the time he’d decided to leave. “Until I arrived in Athens,” she finished for him remembering the way he’d stalked up to her, determination in every line of his long hard body. “You had haunted my life for six weeks and when I saw you again, nothing was going to let you escape me a second time. If my treatment of you has been harsh, my excuse is a passionate fear of losing you again. There has been no compromise in my feelings for you, little bit. So you see, we have each been guided by a secret fear. I have revealed mine. If I’m not mistaken, yours has something to do with that nightmare,” he asked hoping she would finally tell him about it. At first she could only shake her head. Then she took a deep breath. “I told you about Maggie, my stepmother. Well, she was always bringing a man back to our apartment. Sometimes just for the night, or sometimes they’d stay for a week. One even stayed around a whole month. When I was little it didn’t matter to me much. But when I got older…” her voice trailed off for a moment. Nick kissed her forehead. “Go on,” he said encouragingly. “When I was almost sixteen, Maggie met a man. His name was Ben. He came to the apartment on and off for several weeks before he seemed to move in. I couldn’t stand to be around him. Bathing wasn’t one of his top priorities and he ate everything in sight, even if it wasn’t
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his. And he…he kept looking at me. He made me nervous.” Casey’s voice had gotten softer as she got closer to that night. “I had gone to bed and was trying to sleep. But the walls in our apartment building were so thin you could hear almost everything. Maggie and Ben had been drinking all evening. When I heard the apartment door slam I assumed it was Ben going out for something or leaving. But it was Maggie. The next thing I knew my bedroom door opened and Ben stood there looking at me in a way that scared me to death. Before I could get off the bed he had grabbed my leg. The next instant he was lying on top of me, his sour breath almost made me throw up.” Casey had to stop here to catch her breath and to remind herself that she wasn’t actually in that apartment but safe in Nick’s arms. Nick could sense how difficult this was for her and guessed she’d never told this story before. No wonder she’d panicked when he’d tried to make love to her. ‘I started to kick and punch but he was so big. Finally I managed to land a kick in the right place and that combined with the liquor he’d consumed gave me the time I needed to grab my clothes and get out of the apartment. I spent the night under some stairs in a building across the street,” she told him in a voice a little above a whisper. When she’d come to the part about Ben’s rape attempt, he muttered something in Greek that she didn’t understand but by the harshness of his tone she knew it hadn’t been nice. “Did you tell your stepmother about it the next day?” he asked her quietly. “I tried to but she wouldn’t believe me. Ben had told her that I tried to come on to him. Maggie had been packing her bags when I’d gone back to the apartment. She left that afternoon and I haven’t seen her since. And I never saw Ben again either. I assume they went off together.” “I wish I could have been there for you, little bit. I’d like to meet up with this Ben,” Nick rasped in anger.
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“Actually, my life was much better after they’d gone. And I’ve never been afraid of hard work. But I’ve never been able to have any serious relationships. Until Erik. And even then, I couldn’t let myself get intimate with him. Every time someone tried to touch me, it was Ben and I’d freeze.” “Even with me,” Nick said remembering how she’d pull away from him. Casey framed his face with her hands. “Everything was different with you. I didn’t want to draw away. I really wanted you to kiss me, to touch me. That’s what frightened me. That I could want something like that.” His hard body pressed her into the bed but all fear had been vanquished to be replaced by a searing hunger to get closer to him. “Do you remember what I said once about fate? You have really been waiting for me, little bit. You belong to me and to me only.” “If only I had known or not been so afraid. Oh, Nick, I love you so much! Please, I want to be your real wife. Not just the pretend one of the past few days.” His hands pushed aside the strap of her gown as she spoke, his lips unerringly finding the scented hollow between her breasts. “I adore you with my mind, and with my body I thee worship,” his lips burned against the luscious swells of her breasts. His voice was a groan of blissful ecstasy as he pulled the gown from her body, leaving her bare to his touch. His lips covered hers coaching her lips apart. This time her tongue met his, touching, tasting in a dance of love. His mouth scorched a delicate path to her throat. She arched her neck in invitation as his tongue traced little patterns on the sensitive skin. His hand moved tantalizingly slow over her breasts, learning their feel and fullness. When he rolled one pink bud between his fingers, Casey moaned softly at the pleasure he was creating. With a smile, Nick lowered his head to take the budding peak into his mouth sucking
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hungrily. Her hands clung to his shoulders as her body arched up to get closer to him. She couldn’t have put into words what it was she wanted, she only knew that Nick was the only one to give it to her. As Nick’s mouth moved to her other breast, closing over it to feast, a delicious coil began to form inside her, tighter and tighter as she gasped in pleasure. Her mind reeled at the myriad sensations searing her senses, never imagined feelings so electric her mind was a whirlpool of volcanic desires. Her lips parted, inviting his kiss. She welcomed the deep thrust of his tongue, the feel of his full weight pushing down. When he urged her legs apart, she was beyond all resistance. His hand stroked down her thigh, stroking the soft skin as if it were something precious. But when he cupped her mound of soft curls, she tensed for a second before succumbing to the pleasure he was creating. His hands and mouth continued to play her body with skilled mastery as he brought her yearning for fulfillment to fever pitch. “Please, Nick,” she gasped against his shoulder.” Her lips parted, inviting his kiss. “Give me your son,” she sighed as his mouth covered her with ardent promise. Nick could barely think straight. She was so responsive, so warm, so loving. Reaching down he positioned himself between her legs, his body hard and ready. He knew she was ready for him and thrust forward. Her warmth as it surrounded him almost drove him over the edge. When he reached her barrier, she flinched, then moved against him. “Don’t stop. Please,” she pleaded her head moving back and forth on the pillow. Nick was beyond words as he thrust deeper into her warmth. Casey clung to him, her hands molding his tense muscled shoulders. When she reached up to touch his nipple with her tongue, he surged forward with a groan. Casey felt the spring inside her body snap as coils of pleasure spiraled outward, so intense she cried out. “Oh
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Nick!” Nick drove in two more times before his body went rigid and began to tremble as he poured into her.
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EPILOG
One year later, Casey sat propped up on their bed, the one she shared with her magnificent husband, her eyes drinking in the incredibly precious bundle in her arms. Nicholas Alexander Santos, securely wrapped in a pale blue blanket, had made his debut two days ago, much to the delight of his Tia Louisa to say nothing of his proud papa. She and Nico, as they were going to call him, had only been home from the hospital a couple of hours. The bedroom was full of flowers as was the library downstairs, all from their large circle of friends and many from Nick’s business associates. Tia had been holding the baby since their return and had only now relinquished him so Casey could feed him. She’d gone to her room to call her friends to rave about her great nephew and how beautiful he was. Louisa had bought so many clothes in various sizes for the baby that he wouldn’t need anything for months. And with the baby shower Paula had given her, she had enough things for three babies. Casey still found it difficult to believe the past year had been real, that she and Nick, in their love, had created this beautiful baby. Nico was dark like his papa, with a head of thick black hair and dark piercing eyes. He was a small replica of Nick and Casey wouldn’t want it any other way. He was going to be big like his papa too. He weighed in at over nine pounds and was twenty-three and a half inches long. Nick teased her that when Nico was ten years old he’d be taller than his mother. That she was loved was no longer doubted. The past year had been wonderful, not that they didn’t have their disagreements, because they did from time to time.
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Mostly due to Casey’s independent streak and a touch of insecurity that tended to surface now and then. But Nick was wise enough with his growing knowledge of his young wife and had learned to overcome those times, usually ending up in the bedroom, much to their mutual satisfaction. Casey was no longer hesitant about making love and delighted in surprising Nick on occasion by joining him in the shower or on late night swims in the lake or pool. Nick had done a lot of smiling during that past year and all of it due to his wife. She and Paula had become fast friends much to the delight of their husbands. Casey and Nick had been at the hospital pacing the waiting room when Paula had gone into labor. They were the first to see their son, Kristo Nicholas Erimou after his birth. They had both been honored and delighted when Andreas and Paula referred to them as Uncle Nick and Aunt Casey. Casey and Nick had long talks, especially during their lengthy stay at the cabin where Nick had encouraged Casey to talk more about her youth and that hated nightmare. Once begun it had taken little to get her to open up to him. So much so, that now, that painful incident in her life was in perspective, her nightmare a thing of the past. Erik and Angela had disappeared from their life. Casey didn’t know why and didn’t question their absence from the Athens social scene. She was just eternally grateful they were a thing of the past. Nick was always so gentle with her, firm but gentle. “If it is in my power to prevent it, little bit, nothing will ever hurt you again,” he had assured her. And he’d been true to his word, surrounding her with his love, making her a whole woman, a secure woman. During this time Casey had discovered that she had a talent for children’s stories. She’d make up little stories to tell Kristo and Paula had been so impressed that she’d encouraged her to put them down on paper. Casey had always enjoyed art and to her utter amazement found herself illustrating and writing a children’s picture book.
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Nick recognized her need for self-expression and was there cheer her on. When a publisher snatched up her first book with requests for more, she was stunned, but Nick told her he wasn’t surprised because she was very talented. And he was proud of her achievements. Her happiness had been more than doubled when she’d confronted Nick with the news of the baby they’d made in their nights and days of love. He’d insisted on accompanying her to the doctor for each visit during her pregnancy; was thrilled beyond measure as her body changed to accommodate the growing child and shared the excitement as the baby kicked and turned within her. As Andreas had been with Paula, Nick tended to be over protective with her but she knew it was done out of love. There had been no question of his being at her side to help with the delivery. She had no doubt that if they had tried to keep him out of the room, he would have torn the place down brick by brick to get to her. He was by her side to see and hold their son within seconds after he was born. Casey had been amazed at the ease with which Nick handled the infant, his large hands sure and steady as they washed and dressed the first addition to their family. She knew that Nick was going to be a wonderful father. He would be strict but he would temper it with a great deal of love. Now as she sat contentedly, the baby’s dark head to her breast, Nick joined her on the side of the large bed. He cupped her upturned face in his hands, bending to cover her pink lips with his, just a hint of moisture in his dark, penetrating eyes. “When I first saw you I thought there had never been a woman so beautiful. But now, seeing you so happy with our son at your breast, I cannot find the words to tell you what you mean to me, my little bit. You are my life.” She smiled at the endearment she’d come to welcome. “Just love me, Nick. That’s all I need to be happy. And our son, of course.” As if to confirm his
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mother’s desire, a tiny fist waved in the air before wrapping around the finger presented by his proud papa.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
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Autumn McCullah lives in Orlando, Florida with her husband of forty years. She is the mother of three children…Patrick, Christopher and Jennifer…and grandmother to four…Sean, Kyle, Cory and Jesse.
Other books by Autumn McCullah: Shattered Deception Bentridge Magic Daring to Dream.
