Mauvelous

eBooks are not transferable. They cannot be sold, shared or given away as it is an infringement on the copyright of this work. This book is a work of fiction. The names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the writer’s imagination or have been used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to persons, living or dead, actual events, locale or organizations is entirely coincidental. Samhain Publishing, Ltd. 512 Forest Lake Drive Warner Robins, Georgia 31093 Mauvelous Copyright © 2007 by Jerri Drennen Cover by Scott Carpenter ISBN: 1-59998-704-X www.samhainpublishing.com All Rights Are Reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews. First Samhain Publishing, Ltd. electronic publication: December 2007

Mauvelous Jerri Drennen

Dedication I dedicate this book to the people who continue to support me on a daily basis. To my husband, who is my rock and pushes me to do things I’d normally be afraid to. To my children who ground me, and to the women of Romance Writers World who keep me writing through the hard times. Without all their love and support, I’d be lost.

Mauvelous

Chapter One Yancy Adams felt like a dead man walking. Apprehension weighed him down as if he wore cement shoes. He made his way down the long, empty hallway of Aztec Security, his anxiety stemming from what David Henson had to talk to him about. Would he be searching the want ads in the morning? Did they even advertise for “kill-or-be-killed” positions? It wouldn’t surprise Yancy if he got the axe, especially since the data he’d retrieved from the computer of Evan Grayson, a known killer and suspected terrorist, had somehow been deleted. Pages of documents that had taken him weeks at the man’s Louisiana compound to accumulate. The day he’d left, Yancy thought he’d have enough to bring the man down. But the fact was he had no proof he’d been working undercover and that looked questionable for his loyalty to Aztec. The company had nothing on the man now and he’d opened the agency up to attack on their home turf. Grayson had contacts in South Beach—hell, all over the world—and wasn’t afraid to call in favors when he had to. The agents at Aztec would have to watch their backs for some time to come and he could only blame himself for that. Weeks ago, on Grayson’s estate, Yancy had learned how the man dealt with people who crossed him. Not a pretty picture. Yet, if Yancy hadn’t done what he had, he’d be dead today. Shaking the thought, he continued down the hall. Grayson wasn’t his biggest concern right now, his job was. Could he blame David if he fired him? Not really. After all, if the circumstances were reversed, he’d sure as hell give David the boot. Maybe Yancy should have stayed MIA. Better yet, should have allowed Grayson to kill him. It certainly would have made Mauve O’Connor happy. That was his take on her attitude after finding him alive. www.samhainpublishing.com

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At the boss’s door, Yancy took a deep breath and entered the office, taken aback to see the woman herself next to David’s desk. Her arm was draped over the seat back, his employer in the chair. How cozy. As always, Mauve looked breathtaking, today wearing a black suit tailored to her perfect-ten body. Her curly, auburn hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing a face that could stop a man’s heart. Perfection was the only word to describe her. Remembering their first meeting five years ago still embarrassed Yancy. His jaw had literally dropped and hung as she’d walked toward him. He’d had to shake some sense into his head once they’d been introduced. That day, his libido had gone on full alert, and since then every encounter had made it almost impossible for him to leave the office without a major willy plaguing him. Even now, his fingers itched to fondle the velvety skin between the “V” of her jacket, though she’d probably punch the shit out of him for thinking he could, after what had happened. Yancy’s gaze connected with hers. The deep green of her eyes darkened. Was that hatred he saw? He wasn’t sure. One thing he did know—Mauve no longer trusted him, something she’d made quite clear in the Louisiana bayou as they escaped Grayson’s men, an announcement that still cut through his gut after what they’d shared—however brief it’d been. Yancy turned his attention to David. “What’s going on?” His boss stood and gestured for him to take a seat. Yancy felt like a condemned man. He shoved his hands into the pockets of his worn jeans and glanced at the woman who consumed his thoughts. “I’ll stand, thanks. What did you want to see me about, and—” He pointed to Mauve. “What is she doing here?” The sharp tone of his question made her flinch, a totally out-of-character reaction for her. She was one tough lady. It wasn’t like her to hold her tongue, particularly if she’d been slighted. “I have a job for you,” David announced. “Mauve will be going along for the ride.”

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Yancy couldn’t believe his luck. He wasn’t getting canned. He’d be riding Mauve around, trying to convince her he would never betray his company or his country, that his deep cover with Grayson had been essential to staying alive while getting the goods on him. Too bad the goods had somehow disappeared. Maybe the disk had been switched. Grayson might have known from the beginning that Yancy was playing the rogue agent with him, and used that to his advantage to attempt to bring down Aztec and its people. “What’s the job?” He eyed Mauve, who shifted her stance behind David’s seat. She was nervous. Yancy knew why. She hadn’t wanted to be his backup but couldn’t come out and say so without revealing her reasons. Policy dictated that no agent get sexually involved with another at Aztec, though Thorn Abbott and Ava Stanton had crossed that line. The two had been humping like wild animals when he and Mauve came across them in the bayou, which only made him angrier when Mauve refused to discuss their night together. She’d been adamant about that in the swamp. Her beautiful face had flushed with anger, her eyes shooting fire. He replayed her tirade in his head. “Just forget it ever happened. How can I trust you after what you’ve done? Besides, that night we were together wasn’t worth remembering, believe me.” Her words stung even now and left his ego bruised. He’d never had any complaints prior to hers, and to think, she’d been the best lay he’d had, even though his recollections of the night were hazy. Why else wouldn’t he be able to get her off his mind? Was it possible his memories of that evening were clouded, that he had been so drunk he’d imagined her sighs of pleasure, and her screaming his name? Was it all a dream for him? A nightmare for her? Not that it mattered anyway. She believed he’d betrayed her and the company, and that in itself would be enough to keep them apart.

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Bad sex he could work on, but her thinking of him as a traitor was a hard pill to swallow. The whole affair made him feel like an idiot. While at Grayson’s compound, he’d spent long nights thinking about Mauve and her warm body. She’d touched a chord in him like no other woman had, made him want to tell her his deepest, darkest secrets—and he had some long since buried—secrets he’d told no one about. Ones that plagued his dreams on a regular basis. Working for Grayson wasn’t one of them. Yancy lived and breathed Aztec Security, a company he’d worked closely with for almost nine years, long before Mauve came to work there. She might not trust him, but he hoped David did. “What do you think?” Yancy was startled back to their conversation. Shit. He hadn’t heard a word the man said. “I’m not sure. Could we go over it again?” Yancy wanted to crawl under a rock. Why did Mauve’s presence distract him to the point that he couldn’t think like a seasoned agent? Damned if he could think at all.

Mauve eyed Yancy suspiciously. What did she expect from him? He was a man. Ogling a woman’s body was a higher priority to them than doing their jobs. We’ll see how you like it. Her gaze wandered over his broad shoulders. She had to admit, the man was built. Lean, yet muscular, and tall at six-three. He was ruggedly handsome with hair the color of dark chocolate, all wild and wavy, desperately in need of a cut. Mauve yearned to lace her fingers through the soft tufts. She glanced at Yancy’s face again and sighed. A day’s worth of growth covered his lower jaw and only added to his rakish appeal, drawing her attention to his incredible mouth. Oh God, what a mouth it was.

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The man could turn the head of a devout lesbian. He’d certainly turned hers. Not an easy feat in itself. The more Mauve attempted to stay focused on the conversation, the more she was drawn to Yancy. A strange tingling hummed through her veins, her skin radiating an overwhelming heat. The man didn’t even have to touch her to stir her body to immeasurable heights. How could she have this reaction to him after his betrayal? True, she’d never had such earth-quaking orgasms before the night in his arms. He had techniques she never knew existed, a tongue that worked overtime to bring pleasure. Just thinking about it made her legs clench together. She couldn’t allow this to sway her from the job. Remember, you hate him. More importantly, don’t forget he’s not only a blackguard to our company, but a traitor to America. “Apac Muacac checked into the Crest Hotel two days ago. He has ties to Grayson. I want you and Mauve to make sure he’s not in town to bring about the demise of Aztec.” Mauve watched Yancy’s reaction to David’s request. Not even a blink. He didn’t look uneasy about the job, though he could be better at hiding his feelings than she was. The task of telling him their night in bed had been lousy was almost impossible to do. The biggest lie she’d ever had to tell, but it had to be done. She couldn’t trust him, or herself when she was around him. At least with Yancy thinking she got nothing out of their night of unbridled sex, he wouldn’t push getting together again. Men’s egos were fragile, and once bruised they weren’t apt to add injury to insult. “This Muacac, does he have an entourage?” Mauve looked at Yancy, the intensity of his stare almost buckling her knees. He had the most incredible moss-green eyes she’d ever had the misfortune of connecting with. “Yes, six bodyguards,” David said. “Seems from what we could establish, he’s here wooing a local woman. A South Beach resident by the name of Cadence Fleming. We haven’t found much on her yet. She’s new to the area, works as a hostess/waitress at a popular eatery called The Sands. A place celebrities frequent.”

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“How long has Muacac been in the country?” Yancy asked. David glanced over his shoulder at her, then looked back to Yancy. “About two weeks. What I want you to do is get close to Ms. Fleming. That way it won’t look obvious to Muacac that we’re watching him.” Yancy raised an eyebrow. “How close do you want me to get?” Mauve knew what he was asking. Did David want him to sleep with her? The thought made Mauve’s stomach nosedive. She’d seen a picture of Cadence Fleming. It wouldn’t be a hardship for Yancy. She was gorgeous. “I’m going to leave that to your discretion. Do what you need to.” “Do you have an address on her?” “Mauve has everything you’ll need. I suggest you two get started today. We don’t have a lot of time. Like I said, Muacac’s been in the country two weeks. Plenty of time to make plans, using a budding romance as diversion.” “We’re on it, boss.” Mauve inwardly cringed at Yancy’s reference to them as a unit. That’s what it appeared to him, but Muacac wasn’t the only man being watched. Yancy was under surveillance too—and, if he proved to be working for the enemy, he’d be hung out to dry and pay dearly for his betrayal. Last she heard, being a traitor to your country got you the death penalty or at least a nice visit to Guantanamo Bay.

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Chapter Two Mauve settled into the passenger seat of Yancy’s Cobra and clicked the seatbelt in place. Today would be difficult for her. Spending the entire day with him, inhaling his rich, spicy cologne, the whole time fighting the urge to touch him. The man oozed sex appeal, an incredible magnetism that she of all people knew he could back up. Yancy Adams was a man of action. He had abilities in the bedroom that sent her body into fits of orgasm without her making a move. No man had ever been able to do that. The seat next to her bowed, his presence in the car ratcheting her heart rate, a reaction that darkened her mood even more. She needed to pull herself together—think like a veteran agent, not a silly, love-deprived idiot. He could be a traitor, remember that. “Where do we go first?” Yancy turned over the engine. The purr of the Cobra reminded Mauve of him. Everything about the man alluded to an overpowering maleness, even his classic car, all muscle like its owner. Damned if anything was going to make her day easier. Mauve opened the file in her lap and located Cadence Fleming’s work address. “Twenty-eight, ninety-seven Collins. That has to be right down the street from the Crest Hotel. I guess that’s how Muacac met her.” Yancy shifted the car into reverse and backed out from the slot in Aztec’s parking garage. “Seems logical.” On the way to the address, Mauve diverted her attention to the passenger side window, watching white sandy beach and blue ocean go by, afraid to look at Yancy. He unnerved her and she needed a clear head to do her job. While he wooed Ms. Fleming, Mauve would study his every move. www.samhainpublishing.com

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She had to find out if he’d become a rogue agent, then report back to David if she saw any signs of that. They were the only two privy to the plan and would remain that way until she discovered what they needed. Either Yancy was working covertly with Grayson or he wasn’t. Until they knew for sure, Mauve was to stick to him like gum to a shoe. Or like a gumshoe. Yancy’s hand brushed her shoulder. “What are you thinking about?” The slight touch sent her body into a tingling frenzy, made her deeply aware of him again. She swallowed, her mind searching for something nonchalant to say. “I’m worried about Aztec. I have a feeling Muacac is here for more than just skirt chasing.” He cocked an eyebrow. “Why do you say that? You know, wars have been fought over women, Mauve. Haven’t you ever been in love?” She shook her head, her attention returning to the window. “I suppose you have?” He laughed. “Is it that hard to believe?” Her attention snapped back to him. “Well…yes.” “It was a long time ago. I was young and foolish. She was older, more experienced. I couldn’t help falling in love.” His confession shocked Mauve. She’d never expected to hear admissions of love from a man like him—always so cold and guarded. Clearly, Yancy hadn’t always been this way. Something in his life turned him into the distant man he was now. “What happened with her?” Maybe Mauve could learn more about Yancy, something that might help her see into his mind, know what made him tick. “Her husband found out. He made sure I never saw her again.” Her jaw dropped. “She was married? Why would you get involved with a woman like that?” He shrugged. “I was eighteen. I didn’t care. I was too busy exploring her body. Thought I’d hit the jackpot. Sex whenever she was free, anytime her husband was at work.”

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“Did losing her break your heart?” Her question made him look ahead and white-knuckle the steering wheel. Was the event too painful to talk about? “I guess in a way it did, but I got over it.” He turned back to her. “How about you? Who was your first? Did he leave a lasting impression?” Mauve snorted. Her first time left an imprint all right, made her question if she ever wanted to do it again. “That bad?” he asked. “As bad as our night together?” Mauve noted the change in his tone. She could see the lie had crushed his ego. To keep the distance between them, she should tell him their night together had been worse, but could she do it convincingly? She didn’t know. She decided truth in this case was best. “You’ve heard of premature ejaculation?” He grimaced, then nodded an affirmative yes. “Well, Tony had premature, premature ejaculation. He was in and out in less than two seconds. I wasn’t sure what I’d expected, but it was certainly more than I got.” Yancy laughed. “Did you give him another chance?” She snorted louder this time. “No. It didn’t bother Tony, though. He told everyone who’d listen he’d bagged me all night long. Everyone thought he was ‘Mister Stud’ until he made it with another cheerleader. The same thing happened with her and he got the nickname Tony-Two-Seconds. He wasn’t so cocky after that. I heard somewhere that to this day he’s still as quick on the draw. It’s a running joke there in the old neighborhood. People don’t forget in Jersey. I feel bad for his wife.” “How old were you?” “Oh, here we are.” She pointed to The Sands, a very trendy-looking eatery with tables lining the outside of the place. “This is where Ms. Fleming works.” Relief washed over her. The conversation had turned too personal. She didn’t want to talk about her sex life, especially with Yancy Adams, the only man to give her multiple

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orgasms—an event she couldn’t erase from her mind no matter how hard she tried. Thank God he couldn’t remember any of it.

Y Yancy leaned against a pillar, waiting in line to be seated. The lunch crowd was hopping, the place packed, which spoke highly of the food at The Sands. Before he’d entered the restaurant, Mauve had shown him a picture of the target. He had to admit Ms. Fleming wasn’t hard on the eye. Wooing her wouldn’t be difficult, though no woman intrigued him as much as Mauve O’Connor. She was an enigma. Sharing their first times together on the way to the café had been enlightening, and he had to admit to being glad her first sexual experience hadn’t been memorable in a good way. Though, according to her, their night of passion hadn’t been either. Maybe the woman was frigid, had never enjoyed sex. Perhaps she didn’t have a clue what good sex was. Hearing the story about Tony and his erectile dysfunction made Yancy wonder if their problems in bed had been her fault. Maybe she just couldn’t come. He smiled. Thinking that made him feel better. “How many are in your party?” a singsong voice asked. The woman’s question drew him out of his ego-inflation. He looked up and caught his first glimpse of the woman he was supposed to make a move on. She was even better-looking in person. “I’m alone.” His smile grew. “Unless, of course, you’re free for lunch.” She returned the smile with an added twinkle in her eyes. “Smoking or non?” Boy, she was good, changing the subject. Clearly, she’d been propositioned before and knew how to deal with men’s unwanted advances, but that glint meant something. She’d definitely found him intriguing and that was a start. He shrugged. “I live for danger. Smoking’ll be fine, thanks.” “Follow me.” She pulled a menu from a slot in the oak stand off to her side and moved down a row of booths toward the outside café. She led him to a small table with a single chair. “How’s this?”

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That definitely said she had no intention of joining him, and Mauve could see him clearly at this vantage point. Son of a… “This is fine. Thanks.” Yancy sat and took the menu she offered, then watched her sashay away, his gaze glued to her firm behind, inadvertently comparing it to Mauve’s. Hmm. His partner would have to win. He’d bet money you could bounce a quarter off Mauve’s ass. His ex-lover was in damn fine shape. No doubt from hours spent in the gym, working out, practicing kickboxing and tae kwon do. She could give him a run for his money and he was twice her size. Too bad he couldn’t remember much about her naked form. It’d give him something to mull over while he waited for his food. He opened the menu. A dark-skinned guy sitting alone across the café caught his attention. The man glared, his dark eyes narrowing slightly. Yancy had an uncanny feeling it was Muacac, and the irate look he gave him was from Yancy’s assessment of the hostess’s behind, the woman the guy had staked a claim on. Jealousy was a strong emotion. Thank God he hadn’t experienced it since he was eighteen. Yancy stared back, refusing to stand down, even though he knew he should. He could blow everything if the man became suspicious. Cadence cleared her throat. “Have you decided what you’re having?” He glanced at the menu. “I’ll have the porterhouse. A baked potato and a house salad with ranch dressing.” “Anything to drink?” “Yeah, give me a Bud Light. Thanks.” His mark walked away, but not before glancing at the man in the corner. For some reason Cadence Fleming didn’t look all that happy with the guy’s presence, if the lines around her eyes said anything.

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Yancy’s take, from what he could see, the guy’s amorous attention wasn’t reciprocated. At all. Boy, could he relate to that. This turn of events would definitely make romancing her much easier. Single women were always looking for Mister Right. Wanted to get their claws into a man. Yancy hoped Cadence Fleming’s nails were exposed and ready. If everything went according to plan, he’d have her melting in his arms, and with Cadence’s unknowing help, he’d be in a position to learn what Muacac intended before he had time to endanger Aztec or any of their agents.

Through a small pair of binoculars, Mauve viewed an exchange between Yancy and a man sitting at an adjacent table, then flipped through the file in her lap. She found a picture of Muacac and glanced at the man again. Yep, this was the guy, and Yancy was glaring spitfire at him. Did they know each other? From the sparks flying from both men’s eyes, she’d say no. Could it be an act, though, one they’d concocted for her benefit? She couldn’t say for sure. Yet, her gut said it wasn’t. Her cell phone chirped. She reached inside her handbag and grabbed the phone, flipping it open. “Talk to me.” “Mauve, it’s David. How’s it going? Any contact yet?” “Yancy is having lunch at The Sands as we speak and has met the target. I’m not sure if she took the bait or not. It’s too early to say.” “Yancy has no problem attracting women. I’m not worried about that. I’m more concerned with how you’re going to handle it when he does.” Mauve was taken aback by his remark. Did he think her so unprofessional that a night with Yancy could erase five years of training? If so, she had to reassure him. “I’m 16

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handling this case just fine, David. You have no need to worry.” True, she was stretching the truth a little but she needed her boss to trust her to deal with the job at hand, to know she could put her personal feelings aside where Yancy was concerned. When push came to shove, she could do that. Admittedly, Yancy had her body quaking. So what? Her job was more important than giving herself satisfaction, and always would be. Besides, he was drunk the evening they were together and could hardly remember anything about it. Most men were horrible in bed when they were that drunk. Not Yancy. He just couldn’t remember how remarkable he’d been. What would he have been like sober? Better? Was that even possible? She’d never know. “Mauve. Are you still there?” Mauve forced herself to put all that old baggage away and focused on her job. “Yes, I’m here. Sorry, the reception’s awful,” she lied, shifting uncomfortably in her seat. Get it together, Mauve. Before you come undone. “Look, David. I can do this. You have to trust me, give me some time. If Yancy is working for Grayson, I’ll uncover the ruse. Ex-lover or not, Aztec is my number one priority, and if Yancy’s goal is to bring about its demise, I intend to bring about his first.”

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Chapter Three Yancy dropped Mauve off in front of her condo and headed downtown. He wasn’t ready to go home. He’d run by The Sands again and see if Cadence was off, maybe talk her into having a drink somewhere. Earlier that day, she may have appeared immune to his charm, but he’d change that tonight. Even the elusive Mauve hadn’t been able to resist him for one night. They’d been between the sheets—and on the floor, if that flash of memory served him right. He shook his head. He could have sworn Mauve had been into the whole thing that night with the way she’d contorted her body. From what he remembered, the woman could join the circus, as limber as she was. Had it all been a dream? Could the buzz of alcohol have distorted his memory that much? Obviously so. To hell with her. What had she expected? She knew he’d been drinking all day, trying to forget, trying to get so inebriated that he could sleep through the night. She could have passed on the invitation. Shaking the thought, Yancy pulled into a parking slot in front of the restaurant and killed the engine. A quick glance at his watch said it was almost ten. It was a gorgeous night, stars above shining for miles. The perfect evening for seduction. He smiled. Right now he could use a good diversion, and Cadence Fleming was just pretty enough to be one. Before exiting the car, he reached into the glove box for a pack of smokes. He hesitated, wondering if he should or not. He seriously wanted to quit.

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Hell, as he’d told Cadence, he lived for danger, and nicotine definitely fit into the dangerous category. Yancy tore the seal from around the box, flipped the top, pulled out a cigarette and lit it with a lighter from his pocket. He inhaled, almost choking on the first drag. Slowly, he took another puff, then another. The high only nicotine could give raced through his veins. Then he exited the car, and walked around the front to lean on the hood. He propped a boot on the bumper, his attention on the café’s entrance. Hopefully, Cadence wouldn’t think he was some sort of stalker and call the cops. Get him hauled into the station, with him trying to explain to the local authorities why he was hanging around her place of business. Yancy could hear it now. You see, officer, I need to get into her bed so I can get into her head. Yeah, that’d go over good. He might as well haul his ass in now, make a citizen’s arrest for harassment. How good would that look on his resume? Shit, if he didn’t stop Muacac before he enacted his plans, he’d be looking for a new job, and his type of work wasn’t easy to come by. He took another drag and spotted Cadence exiting The Sands with an older darkheaded woman lagging behind. Yancy dropped his smoke and stomped it out. Damn it. He’d been banking on her being alone. This would make wooing Cadence into having a drink more difficult, especially since he was a stranger and older women were more apt not to talk to one. Could he charm a fifty-year-old into trusting him? Not unless he turned on the wounded puppy look, and that might not make him appear all that desirable to Cadence. Or would it?

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Some women looked for injured souls, thinking they could fix whatever was broken inside them. Like a bulb going off in their brains—I can make his pain go away. How pathetic. There was no fixing him. Wounded or not, he didn’t want anyone to think he was less than one hundred percent man. Mauve already thought he’d compromised his virility to save his hide. He didn’t need Cadence thinking he was a wimp. Cadence noticed him and slowed her stride, whispering something to the lady now beside her. The older woman squinted, studying him intently. Her gaze roamed over his body, seeming to be transfixed a considerably long time on his package. True, it was impressive, but this was ridiculous. Rude almost. When they reached his car, Cadence asked, “Did you come into The Sands for lunch today?” She unzipped the purse in her hands and pulled out a cell phone. Was she going to call the cops? Have him arrested? “I came back to give you a tip. I forgot to leave one.” Yancy hoped the lie would lighten the tension enough for her to see he wasn’t a threat. She shook her head and studied him intently. “No. As I recall, you did tip me very well.” “Are you sure?” he teased. “Quite. So, now that we’ve established that you’re full of shit,” she said with a hint of amusement in her tone. “Why are you really here?” There was the million-dollar question. Time for truth, or at least a story he could make her believe. “I came to see if you’d have a drink with me.” “Why?” Her bluntness threw him for a loop. Most people knew how to filter themselves when getting to the point. If she wanted frank, he’d give it right back. “I thought we could have a good time together.” Cadence’s companion huffed. “I’ll bet.” The older women snatched the cell phone from her co-worker’s hand. “I’ll call a cab, or 9-1-1. Which will it be?” She stared at Yancy, her finger poised to punch one or the other. 20

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Backing off was the only choice he had. He raised his hands in defeat and headed for the driver’s side door of the Cobra. “I’m leaving. You both have a pleasant evening.” He winked at Cadence before jumping into his car. So much for a night of passion. Not this time. There’d be no going to the nearest motel registered under James Bondage for him. Instead, he’d be going home alone and hoping he could sleep—something he hadn’t gotten much of in years, especially with the recurring nightmare waking him every other night in a cold sweat. In his rearview mirror, Yancy glanced back at Cadence, who was watching him. If she weren’t interested, wouldn’t she have turned away and left? Her actions gave him hope that he’d be able to talk her into that drink and later into his bed.

Mauve’s smile grew as she slouched in her car while Yancy drove by. Talk about another ego crush. Maybe the man was losing his touch, his sex appeal becoming less appealing. Was she tickled about that, or relieved that Cadence hadn’t fallen for him? Deep down jealous? Not wanting to watch him weave his spell around another woman with the chance of them ending up in bed? Mauve inwardly scolded herself for even thinking such a thing. She had to break free of this spell or she’d become one of those women she hated. Women who couldn’t live without a certain man, who’d grovel for just five minutes of his time. No way was she becoming one of those weak-minded fools. She’d rather die. Mauve had decided long ago that she wanted more than what her sisters had. That having a husband and children wasn’t her cup of tea, a revelation that her mother had a hard time swallowing. She started the car and pulled out of the parking lot catty-corner to the restaurant. She’d follow Yancy and see where he planned to go next. Until he went home, she’d shadow his every move, make sure he wasn’t meeting covertly with Grayson or any of his other colleagues.

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As she drove, her mind drifted to the night she and Yancy spent together. A stupid act to be sure. Completely against her better judgment. She should have gone home the minute she saw him. At a local bar, she’d happened across him drinking himself into a stupor. Mauve still had no idea why. She’d insisted on driving him home—only to make the mistake of falling into his bed. The day after they’d shared that bed, she’d left on assignment, and as soon as she had returned, he’d been sent out, so they hadn’t had a chance to talk about what had happened. Then, he’d been presumed dead and she’d buried her feelings, refusing to let anyone see her pain. When she’d discovered he was alive, that he’d been at Grayson’s estate, she had felt betrayed and still couldn’t be certain he hadn’t lied about it all. The taillights of Yancy’s Cobra came on, indicating a slowdown. Mauve touched her brakes. His apartment was close. Maybe he was going home for the night. She hoped that was the case. She could use some sleep. Since she’d flown back from Louisiana three weeks ago, she hadn’t gotten much. The taillights disappeared around a corner. Thank God she was done for the day. It was indeed his apartment. Mauve released a breath and drove past the complex, then took the next right, heading for her condo. She’d go home, take a long, relaxing bath and go to bed. A good night’s rest would hopefully give her a new prospective—wash Yancy and their night together away for good.

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Yancy stepped into the shower, feeling weak and groggy. Again, sleep had eluded him. He’d spent hours in the dark, fantasizing about Mauve and her luscious body curled next to his, the perfume she’d worn that day still lingering on his senses. The mere memory of the soft jasmine had made him hard. Even the chilling shower he’d taken hadn’t relieved his erection for long. Maybe an hour at the most. The whole sordid thing angered him now. Was he ever going to get over her? Stop thinking they’d be together again? Sleeping with another woman such as Cadence might dispel her from his mind. It was worth a shot. He was sick of getting little to no sleep. He was sure Mauve had no trouble—probably slept like a log. Time to stomp her image from his mind for good. No woman was worth insomnia. Besides, lack of sleep wasn’t good for sustaining a clear mind, and right now he needed to be one hundred percent to outfox Muacac. The thought of the man brought last night’s events back and reminded him that he had to get into Cadence’s good graces, and fast. He was wasting time. Muacac could be planning something big. Six months ago, he’d have had Cadence in his bed by now. Was his failure a sign he was getting old at thirty-seven and losing his touch? No fuck’n way. He was every bit the man he’d always been. Cadence was probably playing hard to get, brushing him off last night just to make him want her more. Yeah, that had to be it. Yancy smiled and scrubbed shampoo into his scalp. Women and their wiles. They had to use tricks to catch a man. Men were just the opposite, didn’t play games. You want it, say so, for Christ sakes. No bullshit. What could be simpler? Why couldn’t women think that way? It certainly would make life easier for the male population.

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As he rinsed his head, he worked up a strategy for a little one-on-one with Cadence, an act to loosen her up a bit. If he could get her alone, give her a taste of his magnetism, he knew he’d have a way of getting the information he needed and maybe get over Mauve in the process.

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Chapter Four Mauve rolled off the bed, angry that her alarm clock hadn’t gone off. Now she wouldn’t be ready by the time Yancy showed up at her door. She raced to the bathroom, hoping to at least shower before he arrived. After last night, this was all she needed. She knew why she’d overslept. The damned man kept her up thinking about their night together—replaying every second, every brush of his hand. Since yesterday, she had a one-track mind, and it revolved around Yancy Adams. She stripped off her nightshirt, then tore open the shower curtain, turned on the faucets and stepped into the tub. The cold water caused goose bumps to break out across her skin. She was wide awake now. With limited time, she stuffed her hair into a shower cap. It’d take too long to dry if she washed it. She scrubbed her body and was out of the shower in less than ten minutes. In a hurry, she dried off and wrapped a towel around her as she padded into her bedroom to find something to wear. She’d entered her walk-in closet when the doorbell rang. Crap. It had to be Yancy, and going to the door half-naked wasn’t a desirable situation—especially when it was the man who stirred her senses so much. Just the thought of him had her nipples tingling and drawing up tight. The doorbell rang again. “I’m coming,” she hollered, cursing a blue streak for wanting a man who could very likely be a Benedict Arnold. Asshole. At the door, she took a deep breath. Don’t let him see how he affects you. www.samhainpublishing.com

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She opened the door and watched Yancy’s eyes darken as they traveled over her towel-clad body. “Why aren’t you ready?” he snapped, a crease forming on his forehead, his brows drawing up severely. He was pissed. Good for him. “I overslept.” She pivoted on her heels to go to her bedroom. “My alarm didn’t go off.” She glanced over her shoulder and caught him staring at her ass. The glint in his eyes said he liked what he saw, and that made her happy. She had no intention of analyzing as to why. Not today anyway. She might not like the answer she came up with. As quickly as she could, she dressed, choosing a pair of white, form-fitting capris and an emerald tank that matched the color of her eyes. She slipped into a pair of butter-soft leather sandals and pulled her hair into a ponytail. Lastly, she sprayed on her favorite scent and reentered the living room to find Yancy rummaging through a stack of her mail. “What are you doing?” Mauve stalked to his side and ripped the envelopes from his hand. “Hasn’t anyone ever told you it’s rude to go through someone’s mail?” “It was sitting there and I was curious. Did you know that you could be a winner in the Publishers Clearinghouse Giveaway?” Mauve snorted. “Me and like fifty million others.” His eyes danced with humor. “You never know.” She tossed the mail on the table. “What’s your plan to entice the target today after yesterday’s failure? What happens if Ms. Fleming doesn’t fall for your dark and brooding act?” He glared at her. “Who says it’s an act?” She rolled her eyes. “Let’s get going. You can fill me in on your agenda on the way to The Sands.” Once in the car, Mauve gave him a sideways glance, enthralled by the flexing of his biceps as he backed the Cobra out of her condo’s driveway. The man was amazing to look at, but she couldn’t let him see how attracted she was to him. His ego was already over-inflated. His head might burst.

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She smiled at the image. “Care to share what you find amusing?” he asked, his gaze intent on her. Unnerved by his scrutiny, she squirmed in the seat. What was she going to say? That she saw his head explode and thought it was funny? Not a good idea. “It was nothing, really. I was just thinking about how unusual it was that you weren’t able to convince Cadence to jump into bed with you yesterday. You must be losing your touch.” Take that. Hope it deflates your pride some more. “Maybe she isn’t as easy as you.” The blasé way in which he said it cut painfully into Mauve’s heart. She was sure that’s why he’d done it. She glared back. Score one for Yancy “asshole” Adams. Now it was her turn. Her smile broadened. “As I recall, you’d been drooling after me for five years before I allowed you to touch me, and we all know how bad that turned out.” His hands clenched the steering wheel and his jaw muscles twitched. Score and match point for her, though his comment still stung. They made the rest of the trip to the restaurant in silence, Mauve brooding over his insult, Yancy obviously over hers. Did he really think she was easy? True, she’d taken advantage of an inebriated man, but as far as she was concerned, he’d enjoyed it every bit as much as she had.

Yancy struggled to keep from saying anything else to Mauve. Boy, she knew just how to cut him to the quick. The bad sex thing was like a sucker-punch to a male’s ego, even worse when it was brought up continually. He’d always prided himself on giving women satisfaction in bed, but she had to keep reminding him that in her case, he hadn’t. Bitch.

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What had she expected? She’d caught him at a low point, a time when he wasn’t in charge of all his faculties. If he had been, he’d have remembered that Aztec had a rule against bedding fellow agents—it never would have happened. Yes, he’d been attracted to Mauve the minute he saw her that first day, but he knew they could never be more than colleagues. Not with that specific clause in place. His job was too important to him to allow a pretty face to jeopardize it. Besides, Mauve strutted around like she was God’s gift to the male population and that wasn’t a turn-on to him. He couldn’t abide women who knew they could get what they wanted with a bat of an eyelash, a wink of an eye or a flash of enough skin. There was no denying that Mauve O’Connor was hot. Even now, after her constant berating, a smile in his direction could still get her further than anyone else. He hated that. No woman had ever had that kind of control over him before, fruitless considering it’d get him nowhere with her now, yet another insult to his ego. Shaking off the negative thoughts, he pulled up to The Sands, still not sure how he was going to lure Cadence Fleming after she threatened to call the cops last night. It hadn’t been her idea, but she certainly hadn’t tried to stop her friend from making the threat. He killed the engine and took a deep breath. An idea struck him. He smiled and turned to Mauve. “How about we go in for lunch together today. You appear interested in me and we’ll see if that doesn’t get her attention. Women are more inclined to want a man who’s dating another woman.” “Is that right?” The three words reeked of sarcasm, as if she didn’t believe his theory. “That’s what I’ve noticed. Weird as it is, it’s that whole, ‘men think with their heads, women with their hearts’, thing.” Mauve snorted. “I use my brain, thank you. So, I do believe that hypothesis is flawed. Besides, if we wanted to stereotype, men think with the heads of their penises.” Yancy refused to allow her to goad him further. He was going to keep his cool no matter what. “Will you do it or not?”

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“All right. I’ll do it for Aztec.” He opened his car door and came around to Mauve’s side. She was already out of the Cobra waiting for him. Yancy scowled, then grasped her hand and pulled her toward the entrance to the restaurant. She wouldn’t even allow him to be courteous, to open the damn door for her. Stubborn woman. At The Sands, he stopped. “You’re going to have to look as if you want to be with me. That face says otherwise.” She yanked her hand free. “Don’t worry. As soon as we walk through that door, no one will be able to tell how disappointing the sex was with you.” Yancy gritted his teeth, then tamped down his fury and opened the door, shoving her into the restaurant. She was going to pay for that last remark—actually eat her words before the day was over. He had a plan all right and it wasn’t going to thrill Mauve O’Connor one bit. “I see you’re back,” Cadence said as she came to greet them. “Yes, but this time I brought a friend.” For sport, Yancy patted Mauve’s ass and smiled at Cadence. Both women looked at each other. Yancy’s smile broadened, though his hand burned from where it had made contact with Mauve’s behind. Damned woman got him back without even knowing it. “Would you like a table or a booth?” Cadence asked in a clipped tone. Yancy’s plan was working. Ms. Fleming sounded jealous. “A booth. It’s more intimate.” His eyes met and held hers. Oh yeah, she wanted him. At least her eyes said she did. He flashed his pearly whites and watched Cadence swallow repeatedly. “Follow me.” Cadence whirled around and led them to a back booth, then dropped the menus on the table and stalked away. Mauve took a seat. “What the hell was that about?”

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Instead of Yancy sitting across from her, he slid in next to her and draped his arm over her shoulder. “Get away from me,” she muttered under her breath. “We’re dating, remember?” She slid forward in the seat, and his arm dropped. “Just keep your hands to yourself.” Yancy shrugged. “Hey, I thought the ass pat was a nice touch.” “For you maybe.” He let the remark slide and flipped the menu open on the table. “What are you going to have?” She snatched the other menu and opened it. “Are you buying?” “Yes, so don’t worry about cost.” She snorted. “Big spender, huh?” “Cadence is coming back. Kiss me.” He grasped Mauve’s shoulders and pulled her close, smashing his lips to hers. Her body tensed, a reaction that only made him work harder to get her to respond. His tongue slid along her soft, supple lips, expecting resistance, only to be rewarded when her mouth opened, her tongue uniting with his. On cue, his body reacted, intense desire ripping through him. To get closer, he slid his hand up her neck to behind her head, deepened the kiss, amazed at how sweet and demanding her mouth became. A need blazed deep inside him, his cock fighting a painful battle against his jeans. A foot shuffling and a light sigh alerted Yancy to Cadence’s presence. What the hell was wrong with him? This was supposed to be an act, a performance for Cadence’s benefit, not the most incredible kiss he’d ever shared with anyone. Shit! Mauve is the woman who said you bombed big-time in bed. Don’t think that way. He shifted on the seat, then turned to find Cadence standing by the booth, an order pad in hand, her face flushed pink. Her blue eyes narrowed on him, indicating annoyance. Yancy glanced at Mauve, whose face matched Cadence’s. Bright red, her mouth parted, her eyes flaming with desire.

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God, how he wanted to kiss her again, but that wouldn’t get the job done. There was a fine line with women. Too much attention toward another only pushed them away. His job was to seduce Cadence, not Mauve, no matter how appealing that idea might be.

Mauve’s heart pounded—her body all tingly and hot. She could still feel Yancy’s tongue on hers, could still taste him—a vivid memory that hardened her nipples and had her crossing her legs to keep them from shaking. Why did he have to be so good at kissing, and bring back their night together? Better yet, why did she want him to do it again? If they hadn’t been interrupted, she had a sneaking suspicion they’d have been under the table in another couple of minutes. No man had ever made her forget where she was. Damn him. “Are you two planning to order entrées?” Cadence asked in a none-too-friendly tone. “Or are you going straight for the dessert?” Mauve caught the woman’s innuendo, and her face flushed again. Shit. This plan of Yancy’s had totally backfired. No way was Cadence going to go for him now, knowing he’d practically had sex with another woman right under her nose. “Give us a few minutes to decide.” Yancy’s arrogant request caught Mauve off guard. What the hell was he doing? Making things worse? He had a lot of nerve. Not that she hadn’t already known that about him. Yancy Adams had to be one of the most conceited men Mauve had met in the twenty-nine years she’d been on this earth, and she’d been around the world a few times. New Jersey, where she was born, was swimming with arrogant men. Most Irish Catholic males thought they were God’s finest creations, and being the youngest daughter of six had exposed Mauve to an army of young men vying for her sisters’ affections. She was

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glad to have gotten away from all that—the O’Connors’ only daughter to leave Jersey— all the rest now married with a brood of children. Cadence turned to leave, her rigid back a clear sign she was upset. Could she seriously be interested in Yancy? From her reaction, Mauve would say yes. She shook her head. Why were so many women drawn to him—mister asshole? That was a stupid question. She of all people should know. She couldn’t keep her distance from Yancy, no matter how hard she tried. Why would she expect any other woman to?

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Chapter Five “Why in the world would you think kissing me in front of that woman would make her want you?” Mauve turned sideways to face him. “It was a stupid idea.” Yancy smiled as he leaned back in the seat of his car and reached into a jean pocket, pulling out a slip of paper. He opened it and shoved the note under her nose. Cadence’s phone number. Mauve drew in a sharp breath. What was wrong with this woman? “Not as crazy as you thought, huh? She slipped it deep into my pocket and whispered, ‘call me’ in my ear.” Mauve’s first thought was that the woman was a lunatic, then she realized Cadence’s hand had to have gotten damned close to Yancy’s amazing attributes, had practically felt him up, and she wanted him to call her. A sick sense of foreboding washed over Mauve, along with an image of Yancy and Cadence in bed, wrapped in each other’s arms. “So…no ‘good job’?” Yancy stared at her. “That was the goal, right?” Mauve quickly regained her composure. “Yes, of course. What’s next?” He grinned. “I charm her pants off.” She snorted. “I’m sure you’re looking forward to that.” “Actually, I am. I could use a little inflating of the ego after your verbal neutering.” The last thing Mauve wanted to hear was his plans for seducing Cadence Fleming, but she sure as hell couldn’t let him know that. “Okay, so you’re a woman, sort of,” Yancy cut in again. “Where would you want to be wined and dined by a man?” She stared at him. “What do you mean by ‘sort of’?” He rolled his eyes. “Nothing. Forget I said it.”

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“Fine,” she said, while in her mind’s eye she pictured laying him out. The man was insufferable and she wished she could get as far away from him as possible. Too bad her job had her in his face until she knew which side he buttered his bread on. “Take her to Gallagher’s. It’s quiet and romantic.” “Thanks.” Why did Mauve suddenly feel like her world had ended? “Let’s call it a day. I want to go by and see Ava. Did you hear she and Thorn are living together?” “I did hear something about that. Does David know?” “Yeah. And no, he’s not going to fire either of them.” Yancy frowned. “I thought—” “He’s decided to take that clause out of our contracts. I guess he realizes that when you work closely together, things can happen.” “Yeah, or when you’re so drunk you don’t know any better.” Mauve abruptly turned to face the window, her emotions in turmoil. Everything he had said since they’d been back in the car hurt deeply, his planning a night of romance with Cadence Fleming topping the list. If they didn’t separate soon, he was going to see her cry, and no man had ever witnessed that. “I’m ready for you to take me home.” “What? No comeback? Has that sharp tongue of yours lost its edge?” She held her emotions in check. “I don’t want to argue, Yancy. Just take me home.” Silence filled the car until the engine turned over. Mauve refused to look at him again. It hurt too much. Best to go home and sulk a while, then head to Ava’s and sulk some more. “I’ll let you know how the date goes,” Yancy said once they were parked in front of her condo. “You do that.” She got out of the car. If she could slam the door without coming off as petty, she would, but he’d no doubt assume she’d done it out of jealousy. That was the last thing she wanted him to think. “Goodbye.” She turned to head inside. “Hey, Mauve?”

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She turned back. “What?” “When do you want me to pick you up in the morning?” Mauve contemplated the question, her overactive imagination visualizing him leaving Cadence in his bed while he came to get her. “I’ll pick you up instead. At eight-thirty.” That way she could see for herself if the woman had spent the night. It was none of her business, yet she wanted to know one way or the other. Maybe it’d help to get over him. He eyed her for a moment, then shrugged. “Okay. See you tomorrow.” Once inside her condo, she leaned against the door and allowed a sob to escape her throat. She had strong feelings for Yancy, even though he could be a traitor, and knowing he was going to sleep with another woman tore her apart.

Y Yancy parked in front of the Ocean View apartments, grabbed the flowers he’d bought on the way over and jumped out of the car. If this were a real date he wouldn’t be as nervous. Aztec counted on him to get further than just into Cadence’s pants, an event that wouldn’t be all that difficult from the way she’d whispered into his ear. She wanted him. There was no denying that. But sleeping with her wasn’t the ultimate goal, seeing what she knew about Muacac and his cronies was. At the door, he knocked and stood back. If his memories of dating served him right, she wouldn’t be ready. It had been a while since he’d been on one, yet it was an unwritten rule or something for all women to not be ready to go, even if they had hours to pull themselves together. He’d contacted her in plenty of time for her to have made a dress to wear if she’d wanted to. A chain rattled and the door came open. Cadence walked out holding her purse. This had to be a first. At the door and ready. He’d give her props for being punctual. www.samhainpublishing.com

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Yancy shoved the flowers at her, unsure as he studied her as to why he felt a sense of disappointment. The woman was gorgeous in a silky blue number. Low cut and revealing lots of leg. He should be excited, but he wasn’t. A memory of Mauve standing outside her condo earlier that day resurfaced. In a simple outfit, nothing special, but she still stirred his blood like no other woman had, and it pissed him off. Here he was with a beautiful willing-to-please lady and all he could think about was that sharp-tongued wench with fiery hair and a temper to match. He blew out a breath. Somewhere along the line, he’d lost his mind. “Where are we going tonight?” Yancy looked her square in the eye. “Gallagher’s. Have you been there?” “No, but I’ve heard about it.” Yancy led her to the passenger-side door and opened it. After she was settled, he came around to his side to get in. “I have to ask you a question.” Cadence said while he fastened his seatbelt beside her. “Go ahead. I’m an open book.” She smirked. “I doubt that. Anyway, that scene in the restaurant today? Was that all for my benefit?” He wished. “What do you mean?” “You know exactly what I mean. Did you do it to get my attention?” “Now why would I do that?” “I don’t know. The woman you were with was breathtaking, and you do realize that she’s in love with you, right?” Yancy laughed. “No, she isn’t.” “Yeah, whatever.” “Look, I don’t want to talk about her.” Yancy shifted back in his seat. “I’m here with you, where I want to be. So, tell me about yourself.” Wanting to be there was a lie, but

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talking about Mauve only made him want her more. Not a good thing when he was trying to woo Cadence. “I’m from Minnesota originally. A small, rinky-dink farm community where everyone knows your business. I had to get out of there before I shriveled up and died.” “What about family? Don’t you miss them?” She shifted. “Not really. They’re disappointed in me for leaving. Wanted me to get married to the area catch, the local banker’s son, and settle down and have babies. I wanted something a little more for my life than that.” Yancy smiled. Why was everyone expected to procreate? He’d rather not. Kids held you back, made you have to settle down, buy a house and a dog. Boring in his eyes. Nope. He planned to avoid that trap. “So, why did you choose South Beach?” “I read about the boon, liked the climate and thought why not. I was lucky enough to get the job at The Sands my second day here. The gal I was with the other night had just rented the apartment I’m in now and offered to share the rent. Everything just fell into place. How about you? Are you a native?” “No. I was born in California. My father was in the service—Special Ops. We moved around a lot.” “So you have a military background. Did you follow in your father’s footsteps?” “Yes.” Yancy started the car. His Special Ops days weren’t something he wanted to talk about with her or anyone else. Time to head to the restaurant and change the subject. “I hope you’re hungry. I’ve heard the food at Gallagher’s is top notch.” “I’m starved, and I’m looking forward to finding out. I have to be honest, this is the first date I’ve been on since I’ve been in town.” He looked at her. “Seriously? No one has asked you out?” “Yes, but you’re the first I said yes to.” Yancy frowned. “So why say yes to me?” She tilted her head and grinned. “Because you’re cute, and after the display with the redhead and all, you seemed willing to do whatever it took to attract me. I like that. No man has ever done anything like that to get my attention before. I was flattered.”

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Yancy laughed. If he weren’t so enamored with Mauve, he’d seriously consider dating Cadence for real. She was to the point and on time—the perfect woman.

Y “Why are we here again?” Mauve asked Ava, who sat next to her in the car outside Gallagher’s. Her best friend eyed her as if she were insane. “To see if he goes home with her or not.” Mauve’s heart tightened. “I don’t want to know.” Ava pursed her lips. “Yes, you do.” “Why do you say that? The man means nothing to me.” “Right. That’s what I kept telling myself about Thorn, and you know how far that got me. I can’t get enough of the man, now. I want to spend every waking minute in bed with him.” Mauve held up her hands. “Please. I don’t want to hear about how good your sex life is. I haven’t gotten any since that night with Yancy. That was six months ago.” “If you’re horny, you could always take Yancy out to a back road and ask him to service you. I’m sure he’d oblige.” Ava smirked. “Wrong. I’d be the last woman he’d ‘service’ right now. I told him he sucked in bed. No way would he be willing to try it again.” “What?” Ava’s blue eyes grew huge. “Was it bad?” “God no. I refuse to inflate that man’s head any further.” “So, how was it really?” Mauve leaned back in the seat and sighed. “Let’s just say the earth moved several times.” “Wow, lucky you. I don’t get it, then. Why tell him he failed to meet your standards when he’d made the ground quake?” Mauve shrugged. “I don’t know. I guess I was upset about him being alive and not telling anyone. It was the worst thing I could think to say.” 38

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Ava tucked a strand of raven hair behind her ear. “Yeah, I’d agree. You know how men are about their virility. Denting their egos is the kiss of death.” “Here they come.” Mauve watched Yancy and Cadence walk arm in arm out of the restaurant to his Cobra. “They look cozy, don’t they?” The hint of sympathy in Ava’s tone didn’t go unnoticed. Her friend pitied her. Mauve kept her attention riveted on Yancy, who was dressed in a heather-gray polo and a pair of dark jeans that molded perfectly to his behind. From any angle, the man looked delectable. No wonder Cadence’s face glowed, and from how friendly she and Yancy looked, Mauve would say they were going back to his place to spend the night together. It was written all over both their faces. Mauve’s bottom lip quivered. She felt helpless, with no way of stopping what was inevitably going to happen. Yancy opened the passenger-side door for Cadence, then came around to get into the car. A loud pop and shattering glass had Mauve on alert. “What the?” Ava’s gaze darted around to find the cause of the commotion. Mauve’s blood ran cold when she saw the side window to the Cobra gone. Yancy was slumped next to the door, his right hand gripping his left arm, a dark substance oozing through his fingers. Was it… Her heart stopped. Oh God. He’s been shot. What was she going to do? She had to help. She turned to Ava, who had already exited the car and was sprinting across the road toward Yancy. Mauve had no choice but to follow, her heart thudding out of control. He’d be angry that they’d tailed him, but there was nothing she could do about that now, not when he was bleeding. Damn it all to hell. Why did this have to happen?

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By the time Mauve crossed the street, Ava had already reached Yancy’s side. He saw her then, and the look in his eyes stopped her in her tracks. “What are you doing here?” he asked through gritted teeth. “I…” He shook his head. “I knew you were jealous about this date, but putting a bullet through my arm seems a little extreme, even for you.” Mauve’s jaw slacked, flabbergasted at his inaccurate assessment of what happened. Potent venom shot through her veins. “I didn’t shoot you, you stupid bastard, but I sure as hell wish I had now.”

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Chapter Six Yancy stared at the beautiful redhead beside him, her eyes emitting sparks of fury, and for a moment his pain subsided. Okay, she had a right to be upset. He should’ve never insinuated she’d shot him, he knew better. Her being at Gallagher’s shocked and confused him. It’d be too much of a coincidence for her to have just been there. She had to be spying on him, but why? Was she worried he’d go home with Cadence? Cadence? Where was she? He glanced inside the car. She was gone, the passenger-side door wide open. What the… “Where’s Cadence?” He looked to Mauve for an answer. “I don’t know,” she hissed, her lips thinning out into a fine line. As if on cue, Cadence popped up from behind the car, closing her cell phone. “An ambulance is on its way.” She handed Mauve the phone and reached down to the hem of her dress, tore off a long strip and wrapped it tightly around his arm. Yancy stared at her. “What?” she asked, her eyes narrowing. “I took a class in first aid and CPR.” He grinned. “You’re full of surprises.” She quirked her lips. “I could say the same for you.” Now it was Yancy’s turn to frown. “What do you mean?” “Why would someone want to shoot you?” Good point. Why indeed? Muacac came to mind. Maybe he’d been tailing Cadence and decided to eliminate his competition. That was definitely one alternative. Then again, maybe the man had been

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in contact with Grayson and was told to shoot to kill. Yancy would almost bet money Grayson had no love for him. Not after his double cross. Lucky for Yancy, the shooter had a lousy aim or he’d be lying in a pool of blood right now, dead. A siren in the distance signaled an ambulance was on its way. Yancy grit his teeth when a wave of pain hit him. No way could he let it show—not in front of the two women he didn’t want to appear weak to. “So, Ava,” he said, focusing on something else. “You and Thorn are playing house, right?” Ava planted her hands on her hips. “Yeah. You have a problem with that?” “Not as long as Thorn doesn’t.” “What is that supposed to mean? You don’t think I’m good enough for him?” Yancy shook his head. “I didn’t say that.” “That’s what it sounded like.” “Boy, I just can’t say or do anything right with you women.” “I wouldn’t say that,” Cadence jumped in, her eyes connecting with his, an obvious invitation in the gesture. He inhaled, then glanced in Mauve’s direction to catch the heated glare she gave Cadence. Strange. Why would Mauve care if someone else wanted him? She didn’t. Did she? Then again, why would she follow him if she didn’t feel something? The bellowing of an ambulance getting closer reminded him of the pain intensifying in his arm. He had to get the darn thing examined at the hospital. He knew that from looking at it, and Cadence would need a ride home after she made her statement to the police. “Mauve, would you see that Cadence gets back to her apartment? I believe this—” he lifted his left shoulder, then flinched, “—is more than a flesh wound.” “Ava can take her home. I’m going with you to the hospital. You’re going to need help getting home, yourself.”

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He glanced at Ava, who nodded. “I’ll see that she gets home.” “But, I’d…” Mauve raised a hand, not allowing Cadence to finish. “I’m going with Yancy. Ava will take you back to your place.” Yancy knew the stubborn glint in Mauve’s eyes. Had experienced it himself on more than one occasion. No way was she going to change her mind. He might as well let her play nursemaid. The idea was actually appealing. He could see her in one of those skimpy candy striper outfits, leaning over him, an unobstructed view of her cleavage his reward for allowing her to baby him. This sounded better by the minute. He smiled. True, he and Cadence had been headed back to his place to get to know each other better, but fate had stepped in, and he’d be spending the night with Mauve instead.

Y Mauve paced the waiting area of the hospital and glanced at her watch for the tenth time. What was taking Yancy so long? Was his arm in bad shape? “You look worried.” Mauve jumped, startled by his sudden arrival. “Don’t sneak up on me.” “I didn’t. You seemed somewhere else. Care to share?” “It was nothing important.” “Hey, you wouldn’t happen to know where they took my car, would you? The thing’s a classic. I don’t want it vandalized.” “The police said it was going to be impounded. It’ll be safe.” “Did they find the bullet? Damned thing went straight through my arm. Just missed the bone.” She stared at him. “I don’t know. I rode in the ambulance with you, remember?” He shifted his stance, then grimaced. “Right. So now what? How do we get home?” www.samhainpublishing.com

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“Did they give you something for the pain?” “Yeah, it hasn’t kicked in yet, but I have extra in my pocket.” Mauve opened her cell and called for a cab, then snapped the phone shut, stuffing it into her purse. She looked at Yancy. “They’re on their way.” “You never did tell me why you were at Gallagher’s tonight. Were you following me?” Mauve wasn’t sure what to say. If she lied, he’d question it. “I was there to keep an eye out.” It wasn’t the whole truth, but it wasn’t a lie either. “Why didn’t you see the shooter, then?” His question stunned her. How was she supposed to know someone was gunning for him? Then again, Grayson was after Aztec agents. Could this have been an attempt on Yancy’s life? Could there be a contract out on him? The mere thought sent her stomach spiraling into her throat. Did this clear him of working for Grayson? Or could it have been staged, him taking a hit to look less guilty? “I wasn’t expecting anyone to shoot you. I’m sorry.” Both remained silent for some time. The taxi pulling into the parking lot gave Mauve the reprieve she so desperately needed. She didn’t want to talk about what happened, or why she was watching him. He’d only get angry. It was time to get him back to his place and settled in so that she could head home. Being near him made her uneasy. Ten minutes later they arrived at his place. Mauve quickly threw fare at the driver and rushed to catch up with Yancy at his apartment door. Her heart raced when she remembered her last visit to his humble abode—the night they’d made love. Get it together, Mauve. No way is that happening again. “Are you coming in?” The simple inquiry had her heart slamming. She sighed and entered the living room, a whirl of unwanted memories bombarding her. The last time she’d been there she’d practically had to drag Yancy to his room, the

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pungent smell of alcohol not even a slight deterrent when he took her into his arms and kissed her. The worst, and the best day, of her life. To this day, she didn’t know why he’d been drinking so much or what he’d wanted to forget, though it had to have been something from his past. A few drunken phrases, a series of jumbled military words that made her curious about his life before she’d met him. Maybe a look into his service records could bring some things to light. “Would you like some coffee? All I have is instant.” Her heart stopped, then restarted. He stood in the kitchen archway, haloed in light, looking weary yet more handsome than a man had a right to. Were her eyes playing tricks on her? Or was he the hottest man she’d ever seen? Even in his weak, disheveled state. Be smart. Say no to the coffee. He smiled, and her heart twisted. One cup wouldn’t kill her. Would it?

Yancy fumbled with the teakettle, feeling a bit woozy. “Here, let me do that,” Mauve insisted as she took the pot and filled it with water. Her nearness sent his temperature rising. As she stood next to him, her signature jasmine scent drifted around him, causing his heart to race. No other woman smelled as heady. It made him feel dizzy. Maybe the codeine had finally kicked in, warmed him from the inside, made him feel things he normally wouldn’t. The pain was gone, at least in his arm. His crotch wasn’t so lucky. As she moved away, Yancy found it impossible to pry his eyes from her delicious rump, the stitching on the jean pockets like a target in his sights. She definitely had the best ass he’d ever seen. He could almost feel its petal-soft firmness cupped in his hands. He swallowed, his body betraying him.

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Shit, if she looked his way, she’d see the bulge in his pants—know how much he wanted her. He didn’t need that. As if she’d read his mind, she turned and caught him staring, her eyes connecting with his. Don’t glance down. Not until I get my peter under control. Now breathe. “Did you learn anything about Muacac tonight?” Her question was just what he needed to get his mind off the big problem. “Not really. Only that I was the first date Cadence has had since she moved to town. Muacac might be into her, but she has no interest in him.” She leaned against the counter. “What now?” “I was impressed by how quick-witted Cadence was in the face of danger. Maybe we could fill her in on who Muacac is. She might be willing to work with us to find out his plans.” Mauve shook her head. “No way are we using her to get to him. Yancy, she’s not an agent. She could get killed. We should tail Muacac ourselves.” “I think we should ask her if she’d be willing to take the risk.” “How do you plan to do that? Pop the question after a night of sex?” “Why should you care how I talk her into it? It’s not like we have anything going. Right? I didn’t do a damned thing for you, remember?” She started for the door. Yancy trailed after her. “What? Did I misquote you?” She turned abruptly. Yancy collided with her, fireworks exploding inside him from the contact. He looked down at Mauve, her eyes pools of glimmering jade. Her lips parted. All he wanted was to kiss her. To feel her mouth on his own. His cock throbbed painfully, as if remembering her heat.

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As his face descended, everything seemed to move in slow motion. The second his lips touched hers everything around him disappeared, the feel of her mouth his only focus. He forced her lips apart, deepening the kiss. As their tongues met, he cupped her ass, drawing her up against his erection, her moan of pleasure pressing him further. With sure hands, he unfastened the button and zipper of her jeans, sliding his hand down her soft belly. The instant he touched her heat, he didn’t care what was said between them. None of that mattered. She was his and he wanted to please her, to make her come. His finger dipped inside her. Her gasps of delight ignited a firestorm in his body, his cock fighting against his zipper. Damned if it wasn’t the best pain he’d ever felt in his life. As he stroked her with one hand, his other connected with her breast, her soft firmness adding to the intensity. The woman’s body was a wonderland of pleasure. He tore his lips from hers, his mouth working its way down her neck. Her scent drove him crazy, as did the quickening of her pulse at the base of her throat. She was into him as much as he was her. As his thumb rubbed against her clit and his finger moved inside her, she moaned with pleasure. He thrust a second finger into her, her wet heat exciting the hell out of him.. Her breathing quickened, and moments later she shuddered and went limp in his arms. He smiled with triumph. Mauve could no longer say he couldn’t please her. “I’m not drunk this time, sweetheart. You can’t tell me you didn’t like that,” he whispered against her ear. Once he’d said it, he wanted to kick himself. She pushed his hand away, her green eyes narrowing as she fastened her pants. Shit. That was stupid. “I didn’t mean…” Her knee came up and connected with his crotch, doubling him over in pain. He hissed in a breath and looked at her—her expression was deadly.

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“Don’t ever touch me again,” she said, then turned and stalked away. At the front door, she glanced over her shoulder, her face twisted with pain. Without so much as a word, she slammed out the door, leaving Yancy with a combination of pain, desire and regret coursing through him.

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Chapter Seven The last thing Mauve wanted was to spend the day in Yancy’s company, but with the attempt on his life, she had no choice. She couldn’t let anyone take another shot at him, even though she wanted to herself. Then again, the shooting could have been part of a master plan Grayson cooked up so that Yancy looked like a victim in Aztec’s eyes. Either way, he needed to be watched closely. Unfortunately, she had to be the one to do it— difficult after last night. The man sure knew how to ruin a mood, his smart-mouthed comment hitting her like a bucket of ice water. Why had he felt the need to say anything at all? Making love was a time for groans and moans, not triumphant remarks that left her feeling degraded. So she came. Was that not the goal? Why couldn’t he have kept his mouth busy doing other things, like nibbling on her ear? Mauve slammed her car into park outside Yancy’s apartment and honked the horn. She refused to go into his apartment, not when it had some strange effect on her. Every time she walked into the place, she lost all semblance of sanity and allowed things to happen that never should. Today, she’d just pretend nothing had, and hope he didn’t want to talk about it. Feeling frustrated, she honked again. Seconds later, a very rumpled Yancy exited his apartment, a pair of dark shades hiding the only part of him she could read. Dammit! He flinched when he opened the door. Was his arm bothering him? Was he even up to spending the day tailing Muacac? He dropped into the passenger seat, his head going back against the headrest. She stared at him until he turned to her. “Just drive.” www.samhainpublishing.com

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Mauve was taken aback by his abruptness. “Are you all right?” “I think I took too many of those painkillers. I can’t even remember how I got home last night.” His confession floored her. The man couldn’t recall getting home, let alone putting his hand down her pants. What a relief. Now she wouldn’t have to feel uncomfortable around him all day. He didn’t remember their heated moments. Was there a pattern here? “Could we stop and get some coffee? My head feels like it was run over by a Mack truck.” Mauve nodded as she backed out of the parking slot and exited the complex. “I’ve been thinking.. Maybe it wouldn’t be a bad idea to see if Cadence could find out what Muacac is up to. After the attempt on your life last night, things might be heating up. Any one of us could be the shooter’s next target.” Yancy didn’t say a word, a reaction that confused Mauve. Had he changed his mind about using Cadence? Could he care about this woman? The thought had Mauve’s stomach twisting. Even after last night, she couldn’t help but be jealous. His stupidity couldn’t change that. What is wrong with you, Mauve? You’ve lost your edge. “I need to stop for gas. We’ll get coffee then.” Five minutes later, she turned into a Gas & Go and parked next to a self-serve pump. Yancy’s hand went for the door handle. She grasped his arm. “I’ll do it. You just stay in the car.” She reached down and popped the gas cap door and went to fill the tank. While she did, her attention reverted to the back of Yancy’s head. The man had great hair, something she remembered quite vividly from last night. In the heat of passion, she’d laced her fingers through the wavy strands, amazed at how soft it felt, the only thing about Yancy that was.

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The man was cold—distant. She’d never seen any signs of vulnerability from him, not even the night she’d dragged him to his bed. Or out in the bayou when she’d lied to him. He’d been angry with her for her choice words, but not hurt. At least, he hadn’t appeared to be. Could he hide his feelings that well, or was he the uncaring, coldhearted bastard he seemed to be? That was the million-dollar question, one only he could answer, and she’d be the last person he’d reveal that to.

The lies kept growing and growing. Yancy knew facing Mauve after last night would be too difficult without telling her he couldn’t remember what had happened. It just seemed easier to tell her the untruth than to try to make small talk with that between them. How would she feel if she learned of the lie? Would she hate him? Thank him? She’d looked relieved when he told her, the worried line on her forehead disappearing altogether. A tap on his door made his heart race. Mauve stood in front of the window, holding two large, steaming Styrofoam cups. Yancy opened the door and reached for one, his fingers brushing hers. He stared at her, watching her mouth open and close like a fish out of water. He had never been so thankful for the sunglasses he wore. He was sure his eyes would give away his desire. Mauve O’Connor had worked her way into his heart, and no matter how hard he tried to extract her, she remained there to wreak havoc on him and his body. She came around to the driver’s side and got in, her attention on the steering wheel in front of her. “Kent Jameson called while I was inside. He said that sources told him Grayson’s Cessna was spotted at Hollywood’s International Airport. They’re trying to find out now when it landed and if he was onboard.”

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“Now that’s interesting, especially if he arrived sometime last night. What do you think he’s in town for? Business or pleasure?” “I don’t know, but Ava and Thorn need to be warned. Would you mind if we stopped by their apartment on the way to the hotel?” “Does David know about Grayson?” “Yes, he had Kent call me. I have a bad feeling something big is about to go down. We have to make sure Aztec’s protected, even at the risk of our own lives.” “You might be right about getting Cadence involved. She could get us closer to Grayson in a big hurry. We might need her help, especially now that he may be in town. I’ll call her now. See if she’d be willing.” Yancy dug the slip of paper out of his pocket, unclipped his phone and punched in the number. “Hello,” her soft voice said. It was obvious that he’d woken her. “Cadence, hi. This is Yancy. I need to see you this afternoon. Can we meet somewhere?” “I don’t know. Are we going to be shot at?” The sarcasm in her question was undeniable. If nothing else became of their relationship, he wanted to be friends. “I can’t guarantee anything.” “I have a few hours before I have to be at The Sands. We could meet for coffee at Perk-up, a block from work.” “I’m there. What time?” “Three o’clock?” “I’ll see you at three.” Yancy closed his cell and glanced at Mauve. “It’s on. Now let’s head to Ava’s. As long as Thorn knows the score, I’m sure he can keep Ava safe until we get to Grayson.”

Y

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Yancy stepped into the coffee shop, gazing around to locate Cadence. He smiled when he spotted her in the corner. Good, she was away from prying ears. He didn’t want anyone to overhear what he was about to propose to her. Could he talk her into helping them? Would she be willing to put herself at risk for people she didn’t even know? He strolled to the table and sat across from her. “How’s your arm?” she asked as soon as he was seated. A waitress came to the table. “Two coffees?” he asked Cadence. “Yeah.” Once the waitress left, Yancy answered Cadence’s question. “It’s still there. Hurts a bit, but I’ll survive.” He shifted in his seat. “How about you? I’m sure you’re not used to so much excitement, especially on a first date.” She grinned. “No, I do believe being shot at is a first for me. So, why did you need to see me? Before you say anything, I want you to know that I realized last night it’d never work between us. The redhead has your heart, and she’s obviously head over heels in love with you. There’s no reason to continue with this.” The waitress brought their coffee and left. Yancy was blown away by what Cadence said. No way was it true. “I don’t know where you get this idea that Mauve’s in love with me. Hate is more like it. We work together, that’s all.” She shook her blonde head. “No, that’s not all. You’d have to be blind not to see how she feels. Then again, men have a tendency to be narrow-sighted when it comes to love.” This discussion was getting off track. Time to redirect it. “Look, Cadence. I didn’t come here to talk about love or the lack of. I need a favor—a big one.” Her eyes narrowed. “Really? What does it involve? Making Mauve jealous? I’ll pass. I’m not into playing games.”

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“How about helping your country? Are you willing to do that?” Better to get straight to the point than hedge any longer. They were running out of time, and wasting more could cost an Aztec agent his or her life. Cadence frowned. “What are you talking about? Who are you?” “I work for a company the government contracts. Six months ago we were asked to look into a man who had dealings with men from overseas, linked to terrorist cells. He knows someone you do.” Her jaw dropped. He reached for her hand, but she snatched it away. “It’s Muacac, isn’t it?” “Yes.” “What do you want me to do? Use him like you did me? I guess that’s what this was all about. You get to me to find out about him?” She wanted the truth. Yancy’d give it to her. She deserved that much. He nodded. Seconds ticked by, the silence almost more than Yancy could stand. “What do you want me to do?” Relief hit him head-on. With each passing minute, Yancy’s respect for this woman grew. Not everyone would be willing to risk their life to save others. “I’d like you to come to Aztec Security in the morning and we’ll go over what we have planned. At no time will you be without backup. I’ll risk my life to keep you safe, Cadence. I promise you that.” “So, if Muacac should come in tonight, do you want me to appear interested?” “It couldn’t hurt. I know I’m asking a lot here, and I wouldn’t now if it wasn’t so important. I want you to know that if at any time you need to back out, you’re under no obligation to continue.” Cadence rose. “I’ll hold you to that. Oh, and I’ll let you pay for the coffee. I think it’s the least you could do after using me so shamelessly.” She turned and left the coffee shop.

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Yancy sat at the table, wondering why he couldn’t see past the woman in his heart— Mauve. If he could, Cadence would definitely be a lady he’d go for. She was smart and gutsy, so much like the woman he could never get off his mind. Except Cadence actually liked him, or at least had until now—a definite improvement over Mauve.

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Chapter Eight Mauve stood in the lobby of Aztec, waiting to see if Yancy and Cadence arrived together. She wasn’t sure how she felt about the woman spending the day here. Unfortunately, they needed her help. There was too much at stake not to utilize Muacac’s interest in her to their advantage. The man wanted her, and with that, Cadence could find out things they couldn’t. Possibly overhear some plans being made, or see Grayson and his henchmen. With Grayson’s plane being spotted just outside South Beach, something was going down and they were running out of time—time that could be precious to one of their agents, or the whole of Aztec. Anything was possible. Images of an explosive devise strapped to a suicide bomber had Mauve’s heart racing. By the time security noticed the person outside the building, it’d be too late. Mauve shook off the thought and decided standing around waiting for Yancy to arrive was counterproductive. She headed for the elevators. She’d go down to the locker room and change, spar with Kent Jameson for an hour or so. Take some of her aggression out on him. The idea made her smile. He’d appreciate that. Kent had been her sparring partner for a while now—never complained when she whipped his ass. His ego never got in the way of them being friends, unlike Yancy. God forbid if his virility was in question. Just looking at him, no one would doubt he was all man—as male as they came. Why did he have to prove himself all the time? Was there something in his past that had made him so restrained? Maybe Kent could enlighten her. He’d known Yancy two years longer than she had. He might know something she didn’t. 56

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On the basement floor, Mauve exited the elevator, running into the man she had to talk to. “Kent, just the man I wanted to see.” “I knew if I bided my time, you’d come crawling to me,” he said, a lopsided grin curling his lips. Mauve laughed. “In your dreams, Jameson. Actually, I need to take out some aggravation on your hide. Are you up to sparring?” His gray eyes narrowed. “What’s wrong? Yancy make you mad again?” “How’d you guess?” “Nobody else has this effect on you. Unfortunately.” Mauve snorted and socked him in the arm. “You forget, I know you’re into blondes.” He grinned again. “I could make an exception for you, babe.” “How about we just spar?” “Only if you promise not to transpose Yancy’s face onto me while we do. I’m pretty partial to my genitalia.” Mauve crossed a finger over her heart. “I’ll aim high. I promise.” “Okay. I’ll meet you in the gym in twenty minutes. Come prepared to get your ass kicked today.” “That’d be a first,” she said under her breath as she walked into the women’s locker room. Faint laughter came from the room next door. She liked Kent. He was fun to be around, but he wasn’t her type. Mauve preferred men with dark hair and green eyes. She preferred Yancy. No other man had even come close to stirring what he did inside her. Too bad he was such an asshole and could be working for the enemy. In a hurry to pound something, she quickly changed into a wife-beater tee and a pair of gym shorts, then slipped on her sneakers. She hung her clothing inside a locker and took a deep breath. She was looking forward to burning off some of this pent-up energy, especially after a night with Yancy. The man had magic hands and an unruly mouth. Two things that excited her. Him

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whispering nasty suggestions turned her on. The man had a dirty mind, and she found that exciting.

Y Yancy led Cadence down the hall, his attention diverted from her to the activity going on in the gym. A group of Aztec’s best had gathered around the sparring arena, watching something. What did everyone find so interesting? Was there a real fight going on inside the ring—was that what drew the crowd? “What’s happening?” Cadence pointed to what he’d been curious about. He shrugged. “I don’t know. Let’s go in and see.” Two of Aztec’s secretaries rushed past them, also excited to see what was going on inside the cordoned-off area. Yancy guided Cadence through the crowd to get to the action. His jaw slacked at what he saw. Mauve had Kent Jameson’s arm behind his back, then without effort, he was down on the ground, her knee at his throat. Nothing new, except today all the male attention was riveted to the skimpy shorts Mauve had on, her butt-cheeks flashing at all of them. Damn her. She was his, and he didn’t like her showing off her assets to everyone. She’d be fighting them off from now on. “Do you give up, Kent? Or do you want me to humiliate you some more?” A roar of laughter erupted through the crowd, and both Kent and Mauve turned around, their jaws dropping. Clearly, they hadn’t known they were being watched. Kent’s face turned stony. He was obviously embarrassed at being whipped by a woman in public, though most of the people in the room knew Mauve’s martial arts skills. She was deadly, could take anyone in the room but him. “Why did she have to make him look like less of a man?” Cadence asked beside him. “I don’t think either knew they were being watched. Mauve and Kent spar all the time. He knows her ability outweighs his own. Yet it doesn’t stop him from sparring with 58

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her. They’re good friends.” Yancy knew where Kent and Mauve stood. Kent played the hound dog around her, but it was all an act. Kent was into blondes, ones with no brains. Mauve fit neither of those descriptions. She was smarter than most women, and frankly it was a turn-on to Yancy. He not only could spar with her physically but mentally. To him, that was the ultimate woman. “Is he single?” He glanced around and noticed everyone had left except for them. “I believe so. Why?” She took a deep breath. “I was just curious.” Had Cadence felt sorry for Kent? Had his humiliation in front a room full of people drawn her attention? Yancy smiled. Suddenly he didn’t feel so guilty about using her, especially now that he might have just introduced her to the man of her dreams. His woman stood staring at Cadence, her eyes glaring a hole straight through her. Anyone looking could tell there was no love lost between these women, yet they’d have to work together for the sake of Aztec. Mauve’s attention turned to Yancy, her look now unreadable. “Let’s see you try that with me.” He pointed inside of the ring. Mauve snorted at his challenge. “You’re hurt. It wouldn’t be fair.” “I think you’re afraid.” “I think you’d better leave the thinking to me. I’m so much better at it.” Yancy smirked. God, how he loved this woman’s spunk. How he loved her, period. He realized that now as he studied her face. He loved her and there was no denying it any longer. Too bad she hated him with a passion to exceed anything else—clearly stronger than the passion they shared in bed. “Come on, Mauve. I’ll take it easy on you.” “You have other things to take care of.” She gestured to Cadence, her dislike for the woman shining through her every action.

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“I’ll take her for a tour of the facility,” Kent suggested, jumping from the ring, his gaze on Cadence’s blonde hair. Yancy turned to Cadence. “What do you think?” She smiled at Kent. “I’d like that.” Yancy grinned with triumph. “Now what do you say? Care to come up with another excuse?” Mauve eyes turned ice cold. “Fine. You want to spar, we’ll spar. But don’t expect me to be nice, not after the way you goaded me into this. I don’t care if you were shot.” Yancy raised a hand in defense. Inwardly, he laughed at her overconfidence. Let her think she could wipe the floor with him. He’d soon teach her otherwise even in his weakened state.

Mauve crossed her arms over her chest, angry with Yancy for making a scene. What did he want to prove? That he was bigger, tougher, than her? That brute strength would be enough to outmaneuver skill? If that was the case, he was in for a rude awakening. She’d been a black belt longer than he’d been an Aztec agent, had studied Eastern philosophy since she was knee-high to a grasshopper. While her sisters were being taught how to be prim and proper, Mauve was learning how to protect herself from the men her sisters wanted to attract. She could still see her mother’s horror-filled face when she told her she was taking classes to defend herself. Gail O’Connor couldn’t control her youngest daughter from that day forward and had learned to give up trying to make her into something she wasn’t. She’d have Yancy doing the same when she was through with him. Yancy stalked to the gym’s doors, closed and locked them after Kent and Cadence left, then turned to face her. “I don’t need an audience. Don’t feel a need to prove anything to anybody but you.” Mauve rolled her eyes, his arrogance getting on her nerves. “Just get your ass in here and shut up.”

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He came toward her, the intensity in his eyes unsettling. “I love it when you talk dirty to me.” Mauve’s jaw slacked. “I did no such thing.” More agile than she expected him to be in his condition, he leapt over the roped area and tore off his shirt. The action in itself was a distraction to Mauve, not to mention his being this close to her. The man was a walking billboard for charisma. Keep your mind on where it should be. On showing him who’s superior. Not on how hot his male flesh is. He circled her in a panther-like gate, his eyes intent on her hands and feet. She fisted her fingers, preparing for his first strike. “You do realize your ass was shining in those shorts you’re wearing, while you were sparring with Kent. Every man in the gym was watching your butt cheeks, not the fight.” His right hand shot out. Mauve deflected it with her left. “I guess they got their money’s worth.” Mauve brought her leg up and connected with his side. The pained grimace racing across his face made her grin. She moved back. “You’re getting slow in your old age, or is your arm bothering you?” He laughed, then with lightning reflexes, had her doing a one-eighty spin, one of her arms ending up behind her back. Next to her ear, he whispered, “That fast enough for you?” Instead of retreating, he nibbled at the ear, an action that sent a jolt of excitement scooting down her belly. Damn him. How was she supposed to concentrate on the match when he did that? Using all the strength she could muster, she used Yancy’s exact move on him, then flipped him onto the floor, his look of utter surprise priceless. While she attempted to pin him, she adjusted her hold to get leverage. He took advantage of the reprieve and brought her down on top of him, rolling her over and pinning her arms between their bodies.

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His knee went up between her legs, a satisfied grin curling his mouth. “Now we’re even, except I had to put an ice pack on my crotch the other night after you kneed me.” “I thought you couldn’t rem—” His mouth came down hard on hers, making her razor-sharp senses go haywire. Seconds later, his lips retreated, leaving her disappointed. “I didn’t want things to be uncomfortable between us,” he said. “That’s why I lied.” “Why do you care?” His lips crushed hers again. Mauve’s body betrayed her, her legs parting to give him play. He didn’t hesitate to move his knee up to rub against her. She reached up and cupped his head, opening her mouth to allow their tongues to mate. This man drove her wild, made her want him like no other. He tore his mouth from hers, his breathing labored. “God, you drive me insane, woman.” She sighed. “You’re not so good for keeping a girl’s head on straight yourself.” He growled at her admission, then rolled her to her side, his hands snaking up into the legs of her shorts, kneading her ass. “I’ve never felt skin this soft, yet so firm.” Mauve could barely breathe. His hands evoked an aching passion low in her belly, one she needed him to do something about. She laced her fingers through his hair and kissed him again, a melding of lips and tongues that left her skin tingling, her nipples poking against his hard chest. He cupped her butt and drew her up against his glorious erection, and ignited an inferno inside her. She no longer cared where they were. She was determined to have his cock inside her, him riding her hard and fast until he drove away the ache. She worked at the button of his jeans, her head spinning like his tongue in her mouth. She’d never known a man could make love to a woman’s mouth, but he was an expert at it. Had her wet and throbbing, almost as if his magic tongue were between her legs. His mouth left hers and connected with her breast, his teeth nipping at the covered nipple.

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Mauve moaned and arched her back, wanting more, needing him to give her release. One of his hands left her ass and pulled down the barriers covering her, exposing her breast to his hot mouth, his tongue swirling around it, the motion causing a searing spasm in her womb. Crazy with desire, she ground her body against his, wanting all of him. “Yancy,” she sighed, a restlessness she’d never experienced taking hold of her. As if he’d read her mind, he slid from his jeans, then in a flurry of passion, her shorts and panties flew. In seconds, he was between her legs, his powerful cock rubbing against her swollen folds, waiting for her to make the next move. “Please, Yancy.” “Please what?” he said in a hoarse, strangled voice. Mauve could see that waiting was hard for him, yet he was determined that she tell him what she wanted. “Love me, Yancy, please.” Instantly, he bucked and drove deep into her, taking her breath. With a need to feel every inch of him inside her, she wrapped her legs around his ass and arched to meet his demand. In moments, warm perspiration formed between their bodies and added to the sensation, heightening Mauve’s arousal, the intensity escalating to a fevered pitch. His pace quickened, driving deep, each thrust more powerful than the last until her body coiled tight then splintered and shattered the world around her. He gave in to his own release seconds behind hers, his body coming to rest on top of her. Mauve closed her eyes, her heart beating wildly, feeling whole for the first time in her life.

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Chapter Nine A knock on the gym’s door had both Yancy and Mauve scrambling to get dressed. This left Yancy no time to talk about what just happened or his feelings for her. “Yancy, you in there?” David hollered. The boss. Not the man he wanted catching him with his pants down. “We have a situation.” Yancy looked at Mauve. What kind of situation? Was Aztec under attack? Once they were both dressed, Yancy jumped from the ring, raced to the door and turned the lock. David popped his head inside, his frown lines deepening when he spotted Mauve with him. What was that about? Was he angry they were alone? Did David have feelings for Mauve, even though he was married? Did she know about this? Yancy shook off the thought. “What’s going on?” David slipped into the room. “Muacac was spotted with one of Grayson’s men a few hours ago. No sign of Grayson. We need to step up this plan with Ms. Fleming. I met with her a couple of minutes ago, and she’s willing to call Muacac to set up a date. We’re going to need her wired. I called Thorn in. He and Ava will man the surveillance on the tap.” “What do you want Mauve and me to do?” “You’ll be backup just in case something goes wrong. Let’s hope nothing does.” “What about Grayson and his men? Is there any way to find out if he’s in town and how many men he brought with him?” “Airport security couldn’t be sure. They saw three exit the plane, but no one got a good look at them.” “So we don’t know if Grayson was one of them, or if everyone left the plane?” “Nope. All we can do is keep our eyes open for him.” 64

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Something wasn’t right with this whole thing. “Maybe we’re looking at this all wrong, David. Would Grayson risk his neck to come here when he could hire someone to do it? I mean, we need to look at this through his eyes.” David shook his head. “You forget the man hates anyone getting the better of him. You made him look like a fool. As a show of strength, he might feel a need to take care of you himself.” “He might have already tried,” Mauve said, her gaze glued to Yancy. “Someone shot you. I don’t think it was some random act. Do you?” “Exactly, and he might know we’re using Cadence to help us. That puts her more at risk. If Grayson wants me, then let me be the one he goes after.” “No,” Mauve shouted. “I don’t think using you to draw him out is wise, Yancy. As we discussed earlier, we don’t know how many of his men are in town. We do know Muacac has a handful of his own. That’s too many for us to keep an eye on.” “I’m willing to take that chance.” David rubbed his chin. “Let’s see what Cadence can learn tonight. She can meet Muacac inside a restaurant somewhere. This way she won’t even have to be alone with him. I’ll sit somewhere inside the restaurant myself and keep my eyes peeled. She’ll be safe.” Yancy felt guilty about the way he’d used Cadence. She had no idea what she was setting herself up for with volunteering her services. Mauve touched his arm. “David’s right, Yancy. Let’s see what Cadence can find out first.” What could Yancy do? He was outnumbered. He might as well resolve himself to the idea of what his job would be in this—making damn sure Cadence didn’t get hurt, or he’d have something else to feel guilty about—guilt that would have him permanently drowning in a bottle.

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Mauve studied Yancy as Kent taped a microphone onto Cadence’s chest. Something had obviously happened between the two while touring Aztec, an incident that had left them both uncomfortable. Mauve would have to ask Kent later, when they were alone. “We’ll be able to pick up on both you and Muacac’s voice from inside here. Try to get him to talk about why he’s in town,” Yancy said, inadvertently glancing at Mauve, his eyes hooded. She had no idea what was going on in his head. How he felt after what they’d shared in the gym. They hadn’t gotten even a second alone to talk. One thing Mauve could see, Yancy didn’t feel good about using Cadence. The whole set-up bothered him. Mauve jumped at a tap on the door. Damned if she wasn’t as skittish as a thoroughbred tonight. She couldn’t keep her mind on what it should be—her job. Yancy slid the side door open. Thorn and Ava stood outside pawing at each other. “Can’t you two give it a break?” Ava smiled at Thorn. “Never.” Thorn returned the grin as he helped her into the van and closed the door behind him. “So, what’s the plan? Do we know any more on Grayson’s whereabouts?” “No, nothing,” Kent said. “Though, now that you’re here, I’m going to go position myself around the corner and watch for Muacac to show up. I’ll let you know when I see him.” Yep, there was definitely something wrong. Kent looked as if he couldn’t wait to get away from the fray. “Mauve and I will be in her car across from the restaurant,” Yancy said, looking at her, still not making eye contact. The way he acted made her nervous. Was he sorry they’d made love—did he wish he could take it all back? If he did, he was going to break her heart. She’d realized while they’d shared their bodies that she loved him, more than she ever thought possible. Her heart took each and

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every beat for Yancy and would from this day forward. If he didn’t feel the same, she didn’t think she could go on, not this time. She didn’t even care if he was working for Grayson. It wasn’t enough for her to stop loving him. They walked to Mauve’s car in silence, her nerves raw, her heart twisting. Yancy opened the driver’s-side door for her, the chivalrous gesture catching her off guard. He never acted like a gentlemen, or was it that she never let him? Maybe her independent nature made men treat her differently, something that hadn’t bothered her until Yancy opened a closed part of her. A side of her personality that felt vulnerable. For what seemed like a lifetime, they sat next to each other, neither saying a word as they watched the entrance to the restaurant where Cadence was to meet Muacac. “About this afternoon,” Yancy said, his gaze connecting with hers for the first time since they’d made love. “What?” She fidgeted in her seat, unsure of what was coming. What he said would determine her future. There was no denying it, no hiding her feelings any longer. The only thing that kept her from falling completely to pieces was the fact that Yancy looked as nervous as she felt. “I think it’s time we get everything out on the table. Be honest with one another.” “Okay. You go first.” He smiled. “All right. Making love to you today was amazing for me.” Why did he not look happy about that fact? Was there a but coming? “I hope it was for you, too.” Could he still be worried about their previous encounter? Was he insecure that their time together hadn’t been as fulfilling for her? Maybe it was time to tell him the truth— the whole truth—that their night together had been an event she would never forget. “Shit! We’ll have to finish this discussion later.” He pointed to a black sedan that had pulled in front of the restaurant. Muacac stepped out and spoke to a man who’d been waiting in the darkened alley nearby. He nodded to the guy and turned toward the restaurant entrance.

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“It’s show time.” Mauve wasn’t sure if she was upset or relieved by the interruption. Now was not the time to figure out which. They had to make sure Cadence left the restaurant as healthy as when she’d entered. “Who was that guy he talked to? Did you recognize him?” Mauve asked, her stomach fluttering in anticipation. Yancy shook his head. “His face was in the shadows. I couldn’t see. Could be one of Grayson’s flunkies. We better keep on our toes.” Mauve’s cell chirped and she snatched it off the dash. “Mauve.” “I’m watching two suspicious-looking guys where I’m positioned. They seem to be waiting for something to go down,” Kent said through the phone. “Could it be a drug transaction?” she suggested. “I’d say no. They’re dressed too well to be drug dealers.” “Keep an eye on them. Let us know if they make a move.” “Will do.” Mauve placed her phone back on the dash. “I have a bad feeling, Yancy.” “Just keep your eyes peeled for trouble.” Trouble or total chaos. Which, only time would tell.

Yancy had wanted to get things cleared up with Mauve, but again fate had stepped in and it was Grayson once more. The man needed to be brought to justice so they could go back to business as usual, back to getting the scum of society off the streets and into jail where they belonged. He was nervous for Cadence. She didn’t have a clue what kind of danger she could be in. Maybe it was best she didn’t know. She wouldn’t want to give herself away to Muacac, if indeed the man had no idea what was going on. A loud pop had both him and Mauve on alert. “That was gunfire. Stay here, Mauve.”

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“No fucking way. I’m going with you.” Damned woman was so stubborn. He’d have to break her of that after they were married. What the… He’d lost his mind. No way could he marry her. He couldn’t allow a woman to spend the night with him. They’d find out his secret. Both took off in the direction the shot had come from, sprinting across the road and around the corner. Dread stopped Yancy in his tracks. Kent lay in a crumpled heap on the sidewalk, as still as death. “Shit,” he cursed, looking at Mauve, whose face had turned ghostly white. “Go back to the car and call for an ambulance,” he commanded. When she didn’t move, he shook her. “Now.” Yancy watched her race around the corner, then took off toward Kent. He knelt to feel for a pulse. Relief spread through him when he found it strong and steady. “Kent. Can you hear me?” Kent opened his eyes. “Get to Ava and Thorn,” he said, his voice weak and muffled. “This was all a ruse to draw them into the open.” Yancy felt torn. He couldn’t leave Kent, but he needed to get to Thorn, to make sure he and Ava were safe. At that moment, Mauve shot around the corner, breathless from the sprint. “Stay with Kent. I have to get to Ava.” Her face turned even whiter than before. Yancy sped toward the van on the opposite end of the street. He didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary until he came around the back, where he found the side door open, a headset dangling out of the van, droplets of crimson dotting the asphalt. This didn’t look good. Something happened—something bad. Yancy aimed his gun and eased down to the door, and with steely regard, pointed it inside. Nothing but static crackled from the interior of the vehicle. Damn it all to hell. They’re gone.

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Now what were they going to do? Ava and Thorn were as good as dead if they didn’t find them, and fast. The blaring of the ambulance as it neared pulled Yancy’s thoughts back to Kent. He raced to the scene as the EMTs arrived. They quickly rushed to Kent’s aid. When Mauve noticed him, she sprinted to his side. “Are they okay?” Yancy shook his head. “They’re gone.” Mauve fell into his arms, hanging onto him as if her life depended on his strength. “We’ll find them, babe. I promise.” He looked up as David skidded to a halt ten feet from them. “Where’s Cadence?” Yancy stared at his boss. Shit! This was a disaster. Not only had they lost Thorn and Ava, Cadence had disappeared, and if they didn’t locate them all right away, they’d end up six feet under the ground.

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Chapter Ten “Check out Muacac’s hotel room. Mauve and I’ll take off to the airport. Maybe they’re planning to fly back to Louisiana with them,” Yancy said to David and Owen Simmons, who had joined them once Owen had heard Kent went down. “Call if you learn anything. We’ll do the same.” Yancy grasped Mauve’s arm and tugged her toward the car. “We need to get moving. Every minute they’re missing takes them one step closer to being killed.” Once in the car and on their way to the airport, Yancy glanced at Mauve, her brow furrowed together, jaw clenched. She was worried—no doubt afraid for Thorn’s and Ava’s lives. Yancy had never seen her so agitated. He reached for her hand and squeezed. “We’ll find them, babe. Grayson isn’t stupid. He has to be able to cover his tracks. He can’t kill them just anywhere.” “What about Ava? Grayson has a thing for her. He might try to force himself on her again.” “We don’t even know if Grayson’s with his men. He may be at his estate, waiting for news.” A single tear slid down her pale cheek. “I hope you’re right.” This was the first time Yancy had seen Mauve cry and it wrenched his heart. Damned if he didn’t love her, hurt when she was in pain. They had a real connection, one he didn’t want to break. To hell with his past. It was time to put it behind him, give himself a chance at happiness. “I love you, Mauve.” There, he’d said it. No way could he take it back now. Another round of tears fell from her beautiful eyes, crushing his heart. Yancy swallowed the lump in his throat, nervous as an expectant father as he waited for her to say something.

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She squeezed his hand and smiled. “I love you too, Yancy. So much that I can’t think about much else.” He nodded. “Let’s find our agents, then we’ll talk about what this all means for us.” “Okay.” She leaned back in the seat, looking less stressed. Good. She needed to be on her toes when they arrived at the airport. Yancy just prayed they were headed in the right direction, otherwise he wasn’t sure they’d get to their people in time.

Mauve watched Yancy out of the corner of her eye, amazed and elated at what he’d revealed to her. He loved her. Yancy Adams loved Mauve O’Connor. When had he decided this? After they’d made love? Right when he’d said it? What did it matter? She loved him so much it hurt, and in her gut she knew he wasn’t working with Grayson. Right now was not the time to dwell on it. They had to find Thorn and Ava. For whatever reason, she had a sixth sense that Grayson’s men were indeed at the airport, waiting to take off. They had to stop them from flying out of Florida or she’d never see her friends alive again. When they took the exit to the airport, Mauve unsnapped her holster and pulled out her Glock, checking the rounds in the clip. After reassuring herself that it was full, she reinserted the ammo, then glanced at Yancy and cleared her throat. They had to be ready for whatever came next. “Did David say where the plane was?” he asked. “At the far end, where all the private hangars are.” He took the exit leading to the back of the facility. “Park over there.” Mauve pointed to an alcove off to the left. “We don’t want them to see us coming.” Once parked, they exited the car and met around the back. Yancy leaned in and brushed his lips over hers. “Be careful. I want to plan a future with you.”

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“I’ll hold you to that.” Mauve allowed Yancy to take the lead as they sprinted across the tarmac, toward a nearby hangar. A Cessna sat in the distance, its steps down, obviously being loaded before takeoff. Yancy slowed for Mauve to reach him. “You go left, I’ll go right.” She nodded, and they separated. It was time to show Grayson’s men what Aztec agents were all about, what hours of intense training could do. She skirted around the outside of the plane, her eyes darting from the jet to the hangar where all seemed quiet. Looks could be deceiving, though. With her back against the Cessna, she slid down the tail, then came around where Yancy stood next to the steps. He shook his head. Now what? Where were they? A ping sounded next to her ear. Mauve dropped to the ground as Yancy dove toward her. “It came from the hangar.” Yancy hit the asphalt and rolled close to Mauve. “Aim for the office to the right.” Mauve frowned. “Thorn and Ava could be inside. A round might hit them.” “They’re Aztec agents. They’ll keep their heads down.” A barrage of gunfire erupted, hitting the Cessna, ricocheting off the body, narrowly missing their heads. “We’re clear targets out here. We need to find some cover.” Mauve aimed her weapon toward the man who’d fired the rounds out the door of the office. She squeezed the trigger and was happy to see her slug hit the man in the arm. Mauve glanced at Yancy and smiled. He returned her grin. “Nice shot. Now, let’s move in. Remember, no straight path. Weave. Roll if you have to.”

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She nodded, then followed his lead, zigzagging toward the building to make them a hard target. Once they reached the doors, Yancy held Mauve back when she started into the hangar. “Let me get a look inside first.” “Watch that they don’t try and blow your head off.” Mauve ran a hand through his wavy hair. “I’m sort of partial to it.” “I’ll keep that in mind.” As he ducked around to look, Mauve held her breath, praying that none of Grayson’s goons had a good aim. The thought brought her back to the shot Kent received, a shoulder wound that could have been worse. Must have been the same guy who shot Yancy. Yancy scooted next to her. “I can’t see anything. I don’t like this. Either they’re all in the office area or they’re hiding in a series of boxes off to the left. Maybe this wouldn’t be a bad time to call for backup.” Instantly, Mauve unclipped her phone and speed-dialed David’s number. When he answered, he sounded out of breath. “David? Are you okay?” she asked. “We have Cadence. Muacac had her in his hotel room.” What a relief that was. One less person for them to worry about. “Is everyone all right?” “Yes…well, a few of Muacac’s guys have seen better days. What’s happening out there?” “We have Grayson’s goons holed up in a hangar. If you’ve got a few agents free, we could use some help.” “We’re on our way. Don’t do anything until we get there.” The phone went dead. Mauve re-clipped her cell and turned to Yancy. “David wants us to wait until they arrive before gong in.” “If we can wait.”

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“Hey, Adams,” a voice from inside the office called, one Mauve recognized immediately, as did Yancy from the look on his face. “Dammit,” he said. “I was hoping he wasn’t here.” Mauve scowled. “Grayson.” “I’ll make a deal with you,” Grayson shouted. Yancy moved closer to the door. Mauve followed. “What kind of deal, Grayson?” “You want your agents back?” “You know the answer to that,” Yancy said, his tone deadly. “And you know I could kill them right now and there’s not a damned thing you could do about it.” “So what the hell do you want, then?” “I want to make a trade.” Yancy glanced at her and frowned. Mauve shrugged. She had no idea where Grayson was going with this. “What kind of trade did you have in mind?” Yancy asked. “I’ll let Ava go. Then I’ll trade you for Thorn.” Mauve’s heart dropped into her stomach. No way was Yancy going to be used like that. Grayson would kill him, no questions asked. “All right. You’ve got a deal,” Yancy said. His answer made Mauve feel as if her world was ending. She grasped Yancy’s arm. “You’re not going in there. I’m not letting you.” “Listen, there was something I didn’t tell you. I found blood outside the van. Thorn or Ava could be bleeding to death as we speak. I have to go in. I’ll be all right. Remember, David and the crew are on their way. It’s the right thing to do, Mauve. You know it.” The realization that he was indeed right didn’t make it any easier. This was the man she loved. What if something went wrong? What if Grayson decided to come out with guns blazing, using Yancy as his human shield?

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“I’ll come out of this alive, babe. I promise. We’ve got a lot to plan. No way am I going to let anything get in the way of that.” He gave her a reassuring smile. “First and foremost, taking you back to my apartment to make love to you in my bed all night.” His lips came down on hers, her heart tightening in her chest. Mauve kissed him back, praying it wouldn’t be the last one they’d share together. He ended the kiss, then edged his way to the door. “Send Ava out, Grayson,” he hollered. The door to the large office flew open and Ava was shoved out, her eyes glazed with tears, the dress she wore smeared with blood. Was it Ava’s or Thorn’s blood? Hopefully the wound wasn’t life-threatening. Ava reached her side and Mauve wrapped her arms around her shoulders, comforting her friend. Mauve connected with Ava’s pain as if it were her own. “Are you hit?” Mauve asked her. Ava shook her head. “No, it’s Thorn.” “How bad is he?” Yancy asked from behind them. “Ava? Tell me where Thorn was shot.” “Lower left shoulder,” she answered through gulps of air. “He’s lost a lot of blood.” “He’ll be all right. Call an ambulance as soon as we’ve been exchanged.” “You change your mind, Adams?” Grayson asked. “Seems you’re always trying to save your own ass.” Yancy flinched at the cut, his hands fisting at his sides. Mauve could tell he hated Grayson insinuating he was yellow. “I’ll come halfway to the office. That’s when you send Thorn out. While he makes his way across the hangar, I’ll walk the rest of the way to you. Do we have a deal?” “We do if you throw out your weapon.” With no hesitation, Yancy tossed his gun across the concrete floor, where it slid about ten feet. “Okay, Grayson. I’m coming out.” Mauve wanted to stop him but knew she couldn’t. Thorn was in trouble, and lesson number one at Aztec—never leave a man down. She knew that, as Yancy did.

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Once he’d made it to the center of the room, the office door opened again. Holding his shoulder, blood seeping through his fingers, Thorn came out, his face chalky, a sign that he’d had a considerable blood loss. They’d need to get him some help right away. As Thorn shuffled to the exit, Yancy moved toward the office. Mauve’s heart broke in two. Would she ever see him alive again? Would she be planning a future soon or a funeral?

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Chapter Eleven When Yancy entered the office, Grayson’s face was the first he sought out. How he hated the man. He was a villain if ever there was one. Nothing was out of Grayson’s realm of possibilities. He actually enjoyed watching people squirm. Too bad he wouldn’t see that this time with Yancy. No way was he going to give him the satisfaction. Not even if he tortured him. “I wish I could say it was good to see you again, but I can’t,” Yancy said in a tone that would probably get him beaten, but he didn’t care. After seeing Thorn and the shape he was in, he had no qualms about killing Grayson. Grayson’s eyes narrowed. “Like I give a shit. You should’ve died the other night. Too bad my man was off on his aim.” Yancy snarled and received a jab in the gut by the butt of a rifle. It doubled him over. So, it was one of Grayson’s goons, not Muacac, that shot him. Yancy wanted to go on the attack, but thought it wiser to bide his time, especially with a sore arm. At least until David and their extra guns were in place. “Now what?” he asked Grayson. “We wait until your crew arrive. Then we’ll see how much you’re worth to them.” Yancy shook his head. “Don’t think they’ll let you fly out of here, asshole, because they know better. You’re going to pay this time. You won’t get away with coming after Aztec.” “So, they’ll let you die?” Yancy smiled. “I can take care of myself.” Grayson laughed. “You’re something else, Adams. Look around you. Four against one. You think you can take us all?”

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“I’ve been in worse situations.” Yancy refused to show any sign of weakness. Overconfidence worked in your favor with a guy like Grayson, men big on bravado. Grayson was going down this time. Yancy would see to that, or die trying. “Grayson,” someone called from outside. Yancy’s smile returned. David had arrived. All guns turned toward Yancy. Not a good feeling being a target, though as he’d told Grayson, he’d been in dire straits before when he was in Special Ops. A time in his life he’d tried to no avail to erase, a traumatic period that left him plagued with nightmares. “How do we get Yancy out of there alive?” David asked. Grayson signaled to the goon next to the door. “Open it.” When the door was ajar, Grayson said, “I want to get to my plane and be able to take off without any interference.” “We can’t allow that, David,” Yancy bellowed and received another jab to his midsection, this time hard enough to drop him to his knees. “Aztec takes the same stance as our government, Grayson,” David said. “We don’t negotiate with terrorists. Throw out your weapons and come out with your hands held high.” Grayson scowled at Yancy, clearly angry that he wouldn’t get out of Dodge without a gunfight. Yancy recognized the look in Grayson’s eyes. He wasn’t giving up, and Yancy was sure he’d be used as a shield. He had better think of something and fast, or he’d become a sitting duck on a pond surrounded by overzealous hunters. Some friend, some foe. Not a comforting thought. Grayson pointed his Glock at Yancy and pulled the trigger, narrowly missing his left knee. Yancy scowled, and while on the ground, scoped out his enemies, the other three men packing high-powered rifles. Even if he managed to bring down one, he’d still have three guns aimed at him, not a fighting chance.

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Yancy’s only hope would be for David and his agents to storm the office, a diversion of sorts so that he could bring down enough of them for the fight to be fair. This scenario hadn’t come up before. Would David think of it? No sooner had the thought crossed his mind than a round of gunfire exploded around them, a bullet grazing the man directly behind Yancy in the arm. Yancy immediately charged at the gunman to his side, sending the guy’s legs out from under him, fighting for the rifle he gripped. Yancy fought the pain in his arm, determined to get control and stay alive. Another bullet whizzed by the side of his head, ratcheting his heart rate. Shit! If Yancy didn’t put an end to this barrage soon, he’d be hit by a stray bullet, and not from Grayson’s men. As pure adrenaline coursed through his veins, Yancy wrestled the rifle away and whacked the guy in the head. That’s one. He turned his attention on the next man, who was firing out the door. Yancy aimed his rifle as the guy swung around. Yancy had no choice but to shoot, hitting him square in the chest, blood gushing from the wound. A look of horror crossed over his face as he dropped to the floor. Two down. Two to go. Including Grayson.

Outside, Mauve prayed that Yancy was keeping his head down. Right then, a shot came from inside the office and crushed her heart. Had they killed him? The man she could no longer live without? “We’re moving in,” David said to everyone, then darted into the hangar, weaving left, then right to avoid rounds. Owen was right behind him. Mauve had to pull herself together, remember the objective. Get to Yancy. She glanced down at Ava, who pressed her hands to Thorn’s shoulder wound, trying to slow the bleeding. Sirens bellowed in the distance.

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“I’m going in. Will you two be okay?” Ava looked up at her. “Go. Save your man.” Mauve nodded and tore toward the office, the sound of bullets whistling past her. The hairs on her arms bristled. When she reached the building, she waited for David to give the nod to go in. Seconds ticked by like hours as images of Yancy’s lifeless body bombarded her mind. He had to be alive. They had nights of passion to experience, days of loving one another to explore. He had to come out of this so they could have their happily-ever-after. For the first time, she could see herself having a normal life, including bearing children with the man she loved. Dark-haired cherubs with green eyes and smiles that could drive anyone to distraction. Children conceived out of love and respect. She had to have that now, especially when she knew Yancy loved her, too. Her mother would be shocked. David nodded. Gunfire erupted again as they stormed the office, her gaze darting around the huge room to locate the one man she wanted to help. Where was he? Was it a bad sign that she couldn’t see him? Was he lying dead behind the desk? Rounds whirred, riddling a stack of papers on a file cabinet, raining bits of confetti on their heads. Mauve caught site of Grayson, right as he trained his weapon on her. Everything moved in slow motion as a shot rang out. In amazement, Mauve watched Grayson go down, a look of disbelief on his face. She knew the shot was fatal—knew Grayson was taking his last breaths, and she in no way felt sorry for him. If ever someone deserved to die, it was Evan Grayson. A man who’d made people disappear. Too many to count. The guy deserved his fate.

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“Yancy,” Mauve called, frantically looking for him. She eyed him halfway behind the door, a rifle propped on his leg, the barrel still smoking. He’d been the one to take out Grayson. The gunfire ceased, Grayson’s men lying on the floor of the office. Mauve raced to Yancy’s side, thinking it fitting that he’d been the one to kill their foe. When she reached the door and dropped down next to him, he tossed the rifle and wrapped his arms around her, squeezing tight. “I told you I’d be okay,” he whispered in her ear. “Didn’t I?” “I was so worried.” She pulled back to look at him, taking in a ragged breath. “I thought I’d never see you again.” “So, what do you say to getting hitched?” Mauve’s heart stopped. Did he mean what he said, or was it the adrenaline pumping in his brain making him say things he normally wouldn’t? His brows knitted together. “Is that a no?” “Are you sure this is what you want?” “I’ve never been so sure in my life, Mauve.” She threw herself into his arms again. “Yes, I’ll marry you. Right here, right now.” He laughed. “I thought a church wedding would be nice. Maybe a month from today,” he said as he kissed her. “When you two are finished.” David stood, looking down at them. “The South Beach police are going to be all over us in about two minutes. We need to have our stories straight.”

Y Once inside his apartment, Yancy headed for the kitchen to make coffee. It was going to be a long night and he needed to be wide awake.

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He dreaded what was coming, but knew he had to tell Mauve about his past before they discussed anything further. After he revealed his indiscretions, he hoped she’d still want a future with him. Mauve came up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist. “I need you,” she whispered, her sensual tone sending a jolt of electricity through him. God, how he wished he could take her to bed right now and make love to her, but first he needed her to know what he’d done in the name of U.S. interests. He turned to face her. “We need to talk.” She frowned. “I thought we had.” “I have to tell you something about my days in the military. When I was Special Ops.” “I don’t need to know anything but what affects us now.” Yancy swallowed hard. “This will.” The look of confusion on her beautiful face turned to fear. He could imagine what she must be thinking. “What is it? Why could something years ago be of importance?” Yancy could tell she’d had to force herself to ask the question. The deep frown on her face said she was worried that what he was about to tell her could change things in a dramatic way. “I don’t sleep well, Mauve. I have recurring nightmares about something that happened while I was in the military. It was ten years ago, at the end of my enlistment, right before I was being sent home. I’d had enough. We were sent into Bosnia to bring some stability there after the horrible atrocities. Sent in as Peacekeepers.” Yancy inhaled deeply as the memories of that fated day played over in his mind. Why couldn’t you erase selective events that were too painful to relive? Mauve touched his arm. “Tell me what happened, Yancy.” “It was late at night and I was headed back to camp when I was ambushed.” Yancy lifted his shirt. “I was stabbed in the side. As a trained soldier, I reacted. We wrestled with the weapon I’d worked out of my belt. It went off, killing my attacker.”

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“You feel guilty about this? He tried to kill you,” she said, rubbing his arm in sympathy. “See, that’s the thing. It turned out to be a woman, all decked out in men’s garb. I killed a woman, Mauve. I dream about it almost every night. See the hat roll from her head, her long, wavy hair falling out—her lifeless eyes staring up at me. The image never leaves, no matter how many years pass, or how many drinks I have to dull the memory.” “I can understand why you feel guilty, Yancy, but it wasn’t your fault. She initiated the confrontation. She tried to kill you. You had no choice but to protect yourself. It’s not like you knew this attacker was female.” Mauve rubbed his shoulder. “Can’t you see that?” Yancy pulled Mauve into his arms, feeling a need to have her close. Maybe with her help he could forget or at least forgive himself for the past. With her by his side, he could see beyond the memory and look to the future. “While we’re being honest.” She pulled back to look him in the eyes. “I have a few things I should reveal myself.” It was Yancy’s turn to be taken aback. What had she kept from him? “Okay. What are these things?” She bit her bottom lip, obviously nervous about what she was about to tell him. “First, this wasn’t my idea, but David thought it best to keep an eye on you when you came back to work. He wasn’t sure where your loyalties lay after Louisiana. I was asked to watch you, but today I knew for certain you were still one of us.” Yancy wasn’t sure how he felt about Mauve’s revelation. Should he be angry with her? Probably not. Not when she was doing what she’d been told. David, on the other hand, he’d have to think long and hard on him. The two went way back and he should have trusted him. “Okay, what’s the other thing?” “I lied to you,” she whispered and turned away. He tucked his hand under her chin and brought her back to face him. “About what?” He held his breath, hoping it wouldn’t be something bad enough to tear them apart.

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“That first night we were together wasn’t awful for me at all. It was perfect. I lied about it because I was angry with you for not getting word to me that you were alive in Louisiana.” Yancy smiled at her declaration. That night had been a bit blurry for him, so the things he did remember were real. He laughed. They were starting fresh tonight, with a clean slate. He could live with the lie. “Can you forgive me?” Her eyes clouded with tears. “There’s nothing to forgive. I love you, Mauve. That’s all that matters.” She smiled and swiped her eyes. “Let’s spend the night making love so that you’ll be too tired to dream, and even if you do have a nightmare, I’ll be here to comfort you.” “Nothing could sound better,” he said, then leaned in and kissed her, his hands tightening around her waist. She instantly responded, her arms circling his neck, her lips opening enough for his tongue to make its way into her mouth. Desire so intense hit Yancy. His cock went rigid. His hands slid under the hem of her tee and worked the fabric up her warm body, his lips leaving hers just long enough to tug the shirt over her head. Then his mouth covered hers again. She tasted so good. He’d never get enough of her soft, pliant mouth, her exotic, feminine scent, or the feel of her heated skin under his palms. Slowly, he backed her against the table and lowered her onto the top, unbuttoning her jeans. In a rush, he worked them down her slender hips. Once removed, what covered her was a lacy black bra and matching thong panties. Black underwear. A total turn-on. “You have to be the sexiest woman I’ve ever known.” Her eyes sparkled from the compliment, and a rosy hue flushed her cheeks.

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He stripped off his shirt and watched as her gaze changed again, made him feel like he was the only man in the world. What a rush. To feel loved by her—totally. He slid his thumbs into her panties and pulled them down, his attention riveted to the triangle of soft curls between her legs. She was perfection at its finest, toned and smooth to the touch. With a sense of impatience taking hold, he drew her to the edge of the table, unfastened his jeans and with a blinding need, drove into her heat, instantly losing control. At a swift pace, he plunged into her, his hands sliding beneath her bra, thumbing her nipples, stirring them to life. Her soft moans heightened his senses, driving him on until she spasmed around his cock and sent him over the edge toward release. After he’d steadied his breathing, he pulled her into his arms and held her tight, content to stay there forever. “I love you,” she whispered in his ear. Why did those three words sound like music? He’d never get enough of hearing her say them—ever. He pulled back and smiled. “I love you too, Mauve.” A gleam of passion returned to her beautiful green eyes. “How about we go to the bedroom and make love in your bed this time, then later we can do it in the shower.” Yancy gave her a look of mock horror. “Whoa, babe. We have the rest of our lives to make love, no need wearing me out the first night.” Her full bottom lip jutted into a pout. He grinned, then scooped her up and headed for the bedroom, intent on satisfying her every whim, however large, for the rest of their lives.

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About the Author To learn more about Jerri Drennen, please visit http://jerridrennen.bravehost.com/ Send an email to Jerri Drennen at [email protected]

Look for these titles Now Available Fire & Ice Inventing the Abbotts

Coming Soon Caddy-Did

She keeps a secret buried in the past. He wants the truth—now. But an unknown killer could destroy their future.

Hold On to Me © 2007 Linda Winfree For FBI profiler Caitlin Falconetti, immersing herself in her job is the only way to quell the memories of a vicious, near-fatal attack and all it cost her, including the only man she ever loved. Better to let him think she simply rejected him, rather than reveal a painful secret that she’s certain would have destroyed his feelings for her. Investigator Lamar “Tick” Calvert is determined to clean out the corruption-riddled sheriff’s department in his hometown. While he understands Caitlin’s drive to excel at her job, it doesn’t mean he’s happy about the prospect of working with his former lover, the one woman he tried and failed to hold onto. A rash of unsolved murders brings them together to find the murderer before another woman dies. Daily contact re-ignites the lingering attraction between them, but Caitlin won’t risk opening herself and revealing her secret. She plans to complete the killer’s profile, make an arrest and get out of town for good. Tick plans to solve this case, too, but now that Caitlin’s back in his life, he also plans to finally dig up the truth about why she left him. But there’s an added complication—the killer isn’t done, and Caitlin could be the next target.

Book Three in the Hearts of the South series.

Enjoy the following excerpt for Hold On to Me: Sorry? How could he be sorry, with Caitlin’s lips against his, her urgent hands on his skin? Tick cradled her head, dipping his tongue into the dark heat of her mouth. She moaned, the sound sending a heavy rush of need to his groin, before she pulled away, grasped the hem of his shirt and tugged it over his head.

Her desire-shadowed gaze lay on him like a touch and stoked his need higher. Eyes locked on his, she settled her hands on his shoulders and eased forward, her thighs straddling his. “What do you want?” He smiled at the naughty whisper and gripped her waist, the cotton of her blouse soft against his palms. “I’ve got everything I want right here.” From beneath her lashes, she flicked a glance at him. She trailed a slender finger down his chest, leaving unbearable excitement in its path. Her fingernail traced a circle around his navel, the muscles in his gut jumping under the soft touch, his erection growing to press against his fly with excruciating intensity. The maddening finger slid down to skim along his waistband. She lifted her other hand to release her hair. She shook the sleek mass back and he reached up, itching to bury his hands in it. She caught his wrists, her thighs pressing harder into his. “You must have some fantasies, Calvert.” She leaned toward him, her blouse gapping to offer him a glimpse of the sheer bra he’d dreamed of all day. She nuzzled his throat, almost purring. “Something that pushes your buttons.” Her husky voice, a dark whisper, shivered over his ear. Thumbs caressed his wrists, but continued to hold his hands at his sides. “Whatever turns you on.” Everything she did turned him on. She’d been every one of his fantasies since he’d taken her to his bed. Or hell, if he was really honest, since that first week at Quantico, during a course on takedown methods, when she’d knocked him on his ass. “Cait—” “Or maybe you want me to figure it out.” Lean thigh muscles flexed against his legs and she pushed at his chest, a light shove, until he lay flat, reclining on his elbows. He laughed, the sound emerging rusty and strangled. “We’ve been here before, Falconetti.” “No.” She curled her fingers into his waistband, and his stomach contracted. “Definitely not here, Calvert.”

Knuckles brushing his abdomen, she popped free the metal button, and his breath stopped. The slow trace of her lowering his zipper felt like a caress. Desperate to touch her, he reached for her, intending to drag her down for a kiss. She caught his hands. “No. You’re not touching yet.” “Cait.” The frustrated sound was close to a strangled plea and he swallowed hard. He caught her teasing smile before her hair fell forward to shield her face. How the hell did she think he’d keep his hands from her? He was hard, straining and ready now, and she’d barely touched him. She pushed his arms above his head again. Stretching forward, she nipped his shoulder, her breasts rubbing against his chest. “Damn it, Cait, you’re killing me.” The words were wrung from him on a gasp when she ran her nails down his torso in a light rake, stopping just short of his open fly. He grasped her waist and found his wrists captured in a firm grip. She held him down this time, leaning over him, her body cupping him intimately. She moved in a slow, sinuous circle against his straining erection, her low laugh doing incredible things to his nerves. “I don’t have to get out the cuffs, do I, Calvert?” The scary thing was he’d let her. He’d let her do anything she wanted to him and enjoy every minute of it. He was hers. Great. He was already a goner. “Whatever you want, Falconetti.” “Giving me control can be a dangerous thing,” she murmured against his ear. Easing his hands above his head once more, she rotated her hips into his, and he ground his teeth, aching to be inside her. “And I told you, I don’t have a problem relinquishing control. Sometimes it can be damned interesting.” Releasing him, she kissed him, a slow, teasing caress. “Let’s find out how interesting.” Metal clinked before the cold circle closed around his right wrist. He jerked, and the other cuff rasped shut on his left wrist. His fingers brushed the heavy wood post on his coffee table, and surprised, he stared into green eyes near black with passion and

mischief. She rested her hands on the floor, either side of his torso, a smile quirking at her mouth, and excitement burned in his gut. Interesting wasn’t the word. She didn’t speak, but blazed a trail of kisses down his abdomen. Her fingers curled in his waistband again and she tugged downward, jeans and boxer briefs sliding over his hips. At the rush of cool air, his dick twitched, and he caught another glimpse of her wayward smile. She pulled the garments free of his body and tossed them aside. Tracing a design on the inside of his thigh, she tilted her head. “You said something about giving me control?” Considering he was the one naked, incredibly aroused and handcuffed, he figured she already had it. “It’s…interesting.” Her fingertip moved up his leg, eased over his scrotum in a featherweight caress. Uncontrollably, his back arched, his eyes slid closed. “God, precious.” She skimmed the finger along the length of his erection, the light touch shivering through him, sending sparks to every nerve. The lush wetness of her mouth closed around him. He bowed again, his stomach clenching, the cuff chain rattling against the table leg. “Holy hell,” he gasped, his breathing coming in uneven bursts. More than anything, he wanted to touch her, the smoothness of her skin under his hands, and he could do nothing but give himself over to the pure sin of her mouth. She had him completely at her mercy.

Guns, drug runners and a horde of angry alligators can’t keep them apart.

Inventing the Abbotts © 2007 Jerri Drennen Book One in the Aztec Security series. Ava Stanton may be one of Aztec Security’s best agents, but following the rules has never been her strong suit. She dresses too sexy, lives too loud and likes her men disposable. And Thorn Abbott loves her despite—or maybe because—of it. Thorn isn’t exactly your average field agent—he’s known more for being “Mr. Computer” than James Bond. When Ava goes on a dangerous mission, Thorn leaves the office behind to be her backup, determined to keep her safe no matter what. The two embark on operation “Fly to the Spider,” a high stakes game of seduction designed to trap a deadly criminal. It doesn’t take long before Ava’s seeing a whole new side of Thorn. Who knew he was hiding a killer set of abs beneath his conservative clothing? Maybe Thorn’s love isn’t so unrequited after all. Soon they’re dancing a dangeous two-step through the bayous of Louisiana, and between their igniting passion and the terrorists on their tail, it’s difficult to tell who’s the spider and who’s the fly…

Enjoy this excerpt from Inventing the Abbotts: Thorn rolled over and glanced at his alarm. Ten o’clock. He still had some time before he was supposed to be in the lobby to meet the persistent blonde, a date he was not looking forward to. He wished he’d never extended the invitation. What was he going to talk with this woman about? Schematics? How to build a weapon out of paperclips and rubber bands? Not something most women found interesting. Ava rolled her beautiful blue eyes every time he brought up a subject even remotely close. The thought of Ava brought the prior evening crashing back, a night where his emotions had run the gamut.

He’d watched Ava walk off with Grayson and knew the game was afoot, an event that only added to his anxiety. He’d never sweated so much in his life, and it hadn’t been caused by Louisiana’s hot and oppressive climate. He’d been worried about whether Ava would follow the game plan and play hard to get, or yet again do something foolish like leave with Grayson. Thorn knew if she had, things could have gotten dicey. Preparations for that scenario hadn’t been discussed. Thank God Ava had listened. What really irked Thorn was that Grayson’s hand had moved from Ava’s back to her ass in record time. The guy had some balls, touching her intimately five minutes after introducing himself. No gentlemen for sure. Not that they hadn’t known that going in. Anyone who could kill so casually would have no qualms about feeling up a woman without her blessing. Thorn smiled. He had been proud of the way Ava handled the situation. She’d immediately turned on Grayson, had even attempted to walk away until the guy stopped her. As he watched, he’d wanted to punch the shit out of the jerk, but knew better. There was too much at stake. They had to get Grayson for Yancy. Their fellow agent deserved that much from his colleagues. Thorn got out of bed and padded into the bathroom to take a shower. Ava wouldn’t be up for hours so he had plenty of time to meet the blonde, lose her interest and make it back to the room before Ava even cracked an eye open. He turned the water on in the shower, dropped his boxers and stepped inside, his mind on what his and Ava’s plans would be for later that day. Grayson had gotten Ava’s room number before she’d said her goodbyes last night. Most of the day would be spent waiting to see if he’d call. Thorn had no doubt he would. Ava was just too tempting to forget. Hell, he wished he could get her out of his mind. The woman was in his blood, sent heat rushing through him whenever he thought of her. Lust was only part of what he felt for Ava, though. The rest was what kept him up at night, dreaming of her being his and only his forever. Too bad she wasn’t the commitment type, and treated him like a brother, her Alex to his Mallory. But she wasn’t a sister figure to him, not even close. Just thinking about her made him hard.

Maybe he should proposition the blonde. Get lucky. His body became impossible to control when he thought of Ava’s silky legs, creamy, full breasts and delectable ass. The woman drove him to distraction. He wanted her so bad he could almost feel her in his arms. “Are you going to take forever?” Ava banged on the shower stall door. Thorn jumped as if he’d been caught jacking off by his mother. What the hell was Ava doing up so early? She always slept in. How was he going to meet the blonde now? “What are you doing in there, Thorn? Can I come in and watch?” “You wish!” Thorn shouted, angry with himself for his wayward thoughts about Ava. “I’m taking a shower. What do you think I’m doing?” She pressed against the door and sighed. “I don’t know. I’ve never watched a man shower before.” “I find that hard to believe, Ava. Could you leave? I’m coming out.” Seconds later, a white folded towel came flying over the top of the glass doors. Thorn just had time to catch the thing. “Are you going?” he asked as he began to dry his body. “Why? I gave you a towel.” Her voice was teasing and only served to make him angrier. He growled out loud. She giggled and moved away from the door. The sweet, musical sound of her laughter squelched Thorn’s anger. Ava loved playing games, enjoyed seeing how far she could push him. Maybe he should play a little game of his own. Show her what she was missing out on. He smiled at the idea. The thought had merit. Ava wouldn’t expect him to walk out naked. Wouldn’t think he’d have the nerve. What would she do? Stand there and stare, or run for the hills? Somehow Thorn pictured her hightailing it out of the bathroom as fast as her bare feet could scamper. Ava Stanton loved the chase as much as Grayson, but to actually follow through was a whole other story.

Thorn’s smile broadened. The more he thought about the plan, the more he liked it. He could already see her blue eyes turn saucer-like, her jaw drop all the way to her chest as he walked past her to go to his room. He’d bet big money she’d never come into the bathroom while he was showering again. With that thought driving him, Thorn opened the door. Ava stood leaning against the sink, looking at her feet. She obviously hadn’t heard him come out. When she looked up, her eyes widened. Her gaze moved over and down his body then stopped on a particular area of interest. He walked up and handed her his towel, intentionally brushing against her arm. As he moved away, he heard her suck in a breath, a reaction that pleased him. Yes indeed. Let her stew on that for a while. “Oh, Ava,” he called from his bedroom, hoping to add fuel to the fire. “I have a lunch date with a lady friend, so you’ll have to entertain yourself for a few hours. I hope you can do that without getting into trouble.”

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