Mariah couldn’t stop the memories.

She’d park behind the barn, and he’d run out to meet her. She’d barely be out of her car before he’d pull her into his arms and kiss her.

She glanced at Shane. The look in his eyes told her he was remembering, too. Suddenly he drew her close again. “You were every teenage boy’s fantasy.”

Hearing his confession, her pulse raced. Mariah hadn’t the strength to pull away. She hated her weakness for this man.

Familiar Adversaries
Patricia Thayer

www.millsandboon.co.uk

PATRICIA THAYER

has been writing for sixteen years and has published over twenty books with Silhouette. Her books have been nominated for the National Readers’ Choice Award, Virginia Romance Writers of America’s Holt Medallion, Orange Rose Contest and a prestigious RITA® Award. In 1997, Nothing Short of a Miracle won the Romantic Times Reviewers’ Choice Award for Best Special Edition.

Thanks to the understanding men in her life—her husband of thirty-plus years, Steve, and her three grown sons and two grandsons—Pat has been able to fulfill her dream of writing romance. Another dream is to own a cabin in Colorado, where she can spend her days writing and her evenings with her favorite hero, Steve. She loves to hear from readers. You can write to her at P.O. Box 6251, Anaheim, CA 92816-0251, or check her Web site at www.patriciathayer.com for upcoming books.

My cousin and best friend Connie,

You were there when I caught my first frog, and got my first boyfriend…and the second and the third…. The wonderful memories are endless. Although many miles separate us, you’re always in my thoughts.

And always, Steve.

Contents

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Epilogue

Chapter One

If this wasn’t the worst day of his life it was damn close.

Early Monday morning Shane Hunter turned off the highway onto the dirt-and-gravel road. Immediately the old truck’s lack of suspension had him bouncing in the seat. He eased his foot off the gas and steered to avoid the potholes. He released a breath as he glanced at the billboard sign that read Paradise Estates in bold letters. In the corner was, in smaller type, By Hunter Construction. He couldn’t help but feel pride. Barely two years ago he’d started the company, and now he was building the first phase of Haven, Arizona’s, newest housing development. Thirty-five single-family homes. Every dime he had or could borrow was wrapped up in this project. And if luck and the weather held Hunter Construction was on its way.

His life would be nearly perfect if only he didn’t have to work for Kurt Easton. There wasn’t a resident of Haven who hadn’t heard about the Easton family’s ongoing feud with the Hunters.

From the very start, Easton had done everything he could to push Shane off the project, especially after there had been two break-ins at the site. Not much damage was done the first time, but in the second incident several pieces of valuable equipment had been stolen. Shane hired more security, but Easton wasn’t satisfied. He’d persuaded investors to hire a project manager to keep the project on schedule and to keep an eye on Shane.

Shane drove past the first row of the framed two-story structures. Farther down were several stacks of lumber and building supplies behind a chain link fence. He continued on to the construction trailer where he spotted his crew standing around outside. Shane checked his watch. It was after 7:00 a.m. What was going on? His crew knew their jobs. He’d given the supervisor the list of assignments last Friday. He parked his truck, climbed out and went straight to the framing foreman, Rod Hendon.

“Rod, why is everyone standing around?”

The foreman shook his head. “It’s not my call, Shane. The project manager said to wait until you got here.”

Shane’s stomach knotted, and he had to fight to keep his cool. Easton would love to see him blow up over this. “Where is this project manager?”

Rod pointed at the trailer. “Inside. And I’ll tell you right now, you aren’t going to like what you find.”

Shane didn’t doubt it, but over the weekend his brother, Nate, had convinced him that he’d need to keep a cool head if he wanted to complete this job. Shane marched off toward the trailer. Fine, he’d work with a manager, but first they needed to get a few things straight and the sooner the better.

Shane climbed the wooden steps, pulled open the door and stepped inside. “What the hell gives you the right to keep my crew from starting work?” He froze when he found a woman, not a man, sitting behind his desk.

She was an auburn-haired beauty with pale, creamy skin, and a wide, inviting mouth with full, kissable lips. And when she looked up at him with those large green eyes he could only find enough air in his lungs to breathe out her name. “Mariah…”

“Hello, Shane,” she said in that soft husky voice he could never get out of his head for the past dozen years. “It’s been a long time.”

Not long enough to forget. He watched as she came around the desk. At five-eight, Mariah Easton was absolute perfection. She filled out a pair of faded jeans nicely. Too nicely. She wore an oversize chambray shirt that showed off her delicate frame but also hid the generous curve of her breasts. But he knew they were full and lush. Whoa. Don’t go heading down memory lane. You’ll only get into trouble. He shook his head and returned to the present.

“If you’re waiting for your father, he isn’t here.”

Mariah shook her head, causing her wild mane to move against her shoulders. “I’ve already talked with Dad this morning. He would have been here but I told him I wanted to handle this on my own.”

He didn’t like the sound of this. “Handle what?”

“I’m the new project manager.”

This was the worst day of his life. “The hell you say.”

Shane knew that Easton could play dirty, but no way would he ever let his precious daughter within ten feet of a Hunter, especially the no-good Hunter boy he’d run off years ago.

Even though Mariah had had a week to prepare for this meeting, she was still nervous. Working in the construction business she’d become accustomed to men staring at her, making off-color remarks, but this man could make her blush with just a look. How had she let her dad talk her into this? The last thing she needed was Shane Hunter back in her life. How many rejections could a woman take anyway?

She tried not to look at him, but Shane had always been hard to resist. He was six foot three and built solid. The years of heavy work had only toned his muscles. But to her it was his deep-blue eyes and that wicked grin that could melt her on the spot. Somehow she had to find a way not to think about how sexy he was and focus on business.

“If you’d like to see my credentials and job experience…” She picked up the folder off the desk and handed it to him. “I just finished a large project in Phoenix. You can call Dad. He’ll tell you that his partners approved me for the position.” She drew a breath, trying to slow her rapid pulse. “Looks like we’ll be sharing this office.”

“Now I know your father is crazy.” He didn’t open the file. “We’ve already had enough setbacks, and having you oversee my crew isn’t going to help. How do you think the men are going to react with you trying to take over?”

Mariah’s anger flared, but she held it in check. She had worked very hard to earn a good reputation in this business. “I’m not trying to take over. I’m here to make things run a bit more smoothly. And I’ve found in the past that the men don’t like a woman on the site because of their boss. As the boss, you need to lead the way. If you make it clear that we have a good working relationship, your men will follow your example in dealing with me.”

He still didn’t look convinced. “You’re also one of the investors’ daughter.”

“Look, Shane, I know you and my father have never gotten along, but for the sake of this project, we need to come to an agreement.”

“What a concept. A Hunter and an Easton working together.”

She knew her father had held a grudge against his family for years. Was it too much to ask that they put their personal feelings aside? “Shane, if I hadn’t accepted this job, they’d just find someone else. It won’t take long for word to get around that Hunter Construction is difficult to work with, especially with the problems you’ve had recently.”

His eyes flashed. “We’re no different from any project this size. Things get stolen and kids break in and vandalize a site. There hasn’t been much damage.”

Mariah sat down on the edge of the desk. “You can’t be too cautious, even radical environmental activists have been known to vandalize and destroy property. This site does cut into a scenic view.”

Shane tossed the folder on the desk. “And that’s what will sell these high-priced homes—the view. People will be lining up to purchase them. But not if we let the crew stand around.”

“Then let’s get them back to work.” She raised a hand. “Introduce me to your crew and confirm my job description.”

He folded his arms over his massive chest. “And just what will your job be?”

“Most of my duties will be handled from here. I’ll order materials, make sure there’s no waste and see that supplies are delivered when promised. My job is to bring the project in on time and on budget.”

“I thought that was my job.”

“It is,” she confirmed. “I’m just here to help you. This is a big project, and there should have been a manager from the beginning.”

“I like to work alone.”

That hadn’t changed over the years. Shane Hunter hadn’t needed anyone, especially her. It hadn’t helped matters that her father hadn’t wanted her anywhere near a Hunter. Even now she knew Kurt Easton hoped that Shane and Hunter Construction would screw up this large and very important project.

“Then you have a problem, Shane, because I’m here…to stay.” She went to the door. “Now, shall we go outside so you can introduce me to the crew.”

He stood there a long time. She decided he needed a little nudge. “Okay, it’s your money we’re wasting while they stand around,” she said. “And it’s your butt on the line with the investors.”

“Damn, if you’re not one stubborn woman.” He started for the door; she followed. He stopped suddenly and turned back to her. “You’d better be worth it.”

Mariah fought a smile. It was hard. “Oh, I am.” That was when she caught the flicker of desire in his intense gaze.

He finally pushed open the door. “Time will tell.” He motioned for her to go ahead of him. She walked out, feeling his gaze and that of every man in the crew on her.

Shane came up beside her. “Everyone, listen up. Sorry about the delay this morning, but there’s going to be a few changes you need to know about before we start.” He glanced at Mariah. “This is Mariah Easton. She’s been hired to act as Paradise’s project manager.” There were murmurs and groans in the group. “I’m still the crew boss, and you’ll answer to me, but Mariah will take over in the office with ordering, deliveries and keeping us on schedule. So mind your manners and cooperate with her.” He glanced at her. “You have anything to add?”

Mariah had a lot to say, but she wasn’t about to fight with Shane in front of the crew. “No, not right now.”

He turned back to the men. “Okay, let’s get to work.”

She returned to the trailer, praying for strength to survive this job. A hundred times she’d asked herself why she’d agreed to take on this difficult assignment…and Shane Hunter. He’d dumped her once in high school. He broke her heart and it had taken years to get over him. Now she was leaving herself wide open for hurt and being dragged into this ridiculous, decades-old feud.

Mariah picked up the phone. First thing she needed was a desk. There was no way she was sharing Shane’s. She glanced at the stack of papers on top. Her gaze continued around the makeshift office to the drafting table, piled high with blueprints. How did they find anything?

In the empty corner she decided there was room to put a small desk. And it was far enough away from Shane’s that maybe they could stay out of each other’s way.

“Already calling Daddy to complain?”

She glanced over her shoulder to find Shane had come back inside. “Let’s be clear about something. I don’t go running to anyone.”

“No, well, he came running to you. Guess he needs you to spy on the big bad Hunter.”

Mariah ignored him as she spoke into the receiver. “Yes, I’ve taken the job, but I’ll need a desk.” She glanced around the messy room with the overflowing trash cans and stacks of empty pizza boxes and grimaced. “And a cleaning crew. This place is a pigsty.” She hung up and looked at Shane.

“As you can see, I don’t have a problem getting what I want.” She walked toward him. “So be warned, Shane. I’m not the insecure girl you remember.” It was a lie. “I worked with construction crews who chewed up female project managers and spit them out like a bad taste. I survived and did my job and did it well. Now we can work together or against each other. I’d prefer we work as a team. It will make our jobs easier.” She raised an eyebrow. “And if it looks like we’re getting along, it will drive my father crazy.”

By noon Shane wanted to get good and drunk, but he needed a clear head. So he drove into town for lunch and some down time instead. When he walked into the town’s favorite hang out, the Good Time Café, he found his brother Nate already seated at the counter.

“Hey, bro, what brings you into town on a week-day?”

Shane sat on the next stool. “The trailer is being cleaned.”

Nate’s eyes narrowed. “Say again.”

“The new project manager is having the trailer cleaned. She said it’s a pigsty.”

“Well, that part is true—whoa, you said she. As in a woman project manager?”

Shane nodded.

“Oh, boy.”

“It only gets worse,” Shane began. “The project manager is Mariah Easton.”

His brother made a whistling sound. “Are you talking about the girl you had the hots for in high school? Kurt Easton’s daughter?”

Shane nodded twice.

“Oh, man.” His eyes widened. “She still pretty?”

“I didn’t notice.”

Nate grabbed his brother’s wrist. “I’m just checking for a pulse. You must have died, because that’s the only way you wouldn’t notice a woman.”

Shane jerked away. “Stop it. Like I had time to check her out.”

“You didn’t notice all that wild red hair and big green eyes. Those long, long legs…”

Shane didn’t want to hear any more. “Hey, didn’t you marry a gorgeous blonde about six months ago? I believe her name is Tori. Soon to be the mother of your child.”

Nate smiled. “And I love my wife, but I also remember back when you walked around all goofy about that girl. I thought I’d have to buy you a bib because you drooled so much.”

“I wasn’t that bad.” Was he? “Besides, that was years ago,” Shane insisted, trying not to remember the time when he’d had no choice but to give her up. “Now, she’s just a pain in my…side.”

Nate frowned. “Are you afraid that she’ll try to undermine your job?”

Shane shrugged. “What else can I think? She’s Kurt Easton’s daughter.”

Chapter Two

“I need the lumber delivery by noon, Mr. Harris,” Mariah said into the phone at her desk. Her first morning, and already she’d had to deal with half a dozen problems and it wasn’t even nine o’clock.

“No can do, lady,” the local supplier said. “My driver won’t be able to get the load there until three.”

Mariah took a silent breath, not wanting to let him know her frustration. “That means my men will be standing around. It will put us behind schedule.”

“That happens in this business. Just sit tight, Jess will be there as soon as possible.”

“I don’t have time to sit anywhere, nor does my crew. You give me no alternative, Mr. Grant, but to discontinue our business arrangement.”

She heard his soft curse. “You can’t do that. We have a contract.”

“Which you broke when you didn’t deliver on time,” she informed him. “In fact, the lumber in question was due two days ago.” Why hadn’t Shane dealt with this problem before now? “That leaves me no choice but to give our business to another company.”

“I want to talk with Shane.”

Mariah was used to distributors who wanted to deal with a man. “Sorry, he’s busy with the crew. Mr. Grant, if we’re going to continue our association, you’ll be dealing with me, Mariah Easton. I’m the project manager.”

The man murmured another curse.

“And you’ve got until twelve noon today to make the delivery.”

“How am I supposed to do that when I don’t have a driver?”

“Strap the lumber to your back, just get it here.” She slammed down the receiver. What was wrong with her? She never behaved like this. Of course, she’d never had to work with an ex-boyfriend, either. She drew a long breath and closed her eyes. When she finally opened them she saw Shane standing by the door.

“Just what the hell is going on?” he demanded.

He looked like a soft-drink-ad model in his faded jeans and crepe sole boots. The little residue of perspiration on his dark T-shirt that covered his muscular chest only added to his sex appeal.

“I asked what’s going on,” he repeated.

Great, things were getting worse. “Maybe I should be asking you that.” She held out the supply order from the local lumberyard. “This delivery is two days late.”

“So I’ll call Jerry. He’s been having some trouble finding a driver.” He went to the phone.

“Mr. Grant and I talked already. I informed him that if the delivery isn’t made by noon, then he’s broken the contract with the project and will be replaced.”

Shane gripped the order form in his hand. So Mariah had jumped into her new job with both feet. She’d started yesterday by having a cleaning crew go over the trailer. Then a desk and file cabinet had been brought in at quitting time. All he’d asked was that nothing in his area be touched, then he’d left and headed to the local bar with some of the guys.

At five-thirty this morning he’d walked into the trailer to the smell of coffee…and Mariah. Dressed in creased khaki pants and a wine-colored blouse, even her work boots didn’t take away from her femininity. Her long auburn hair was pulled back from her heart-shaped face and braided, making her green eyes look large and alluring. That was when he’d decided it would be best to get out of the there. So he went to work with the crew.

Now he was trying to hold it together. “Jerry gave us the best price for this project. He’s also the only local supplier. I know it sets us back…a little, but I can find other work for the crew.”

“It’s not good business.”

She wasn’t giving an inch on this. “This isn’t Phoenix, Mariah. Haven is a small town. This project is supposed to bring jobs and revenue to the area. That won’t be true if we take our business to Tucson.”

“We won’t make any money if this project comes to a standstill. I can’t back down on this, Shane.”

“Can’t or won’t?”

He met her stubborn look, but soon realized he couldn’t intimidate her at all.

“Like I said, Jerry’s got until noon,” she answered.

Shane moved in closer. He was really ticked off. How dare she come in here and start rearranging things before even asking about the situation? She had certainly changed from the timid girl he’d known in high school. The girl who wouldn’t speak or even smile at him for months. Finally he had gotten her to talk to him. He could still recall their first kiss. Her shy response…

“You need to bend a little, Ms. Easton.”

“You need to remember this is business, Mr. Hunter, not a popularity contest.”

She was driving him crazy. He couldn’t decide if he wanted to shake her, or kiss her. He sucked in a breath. Man, he was in trouble. “I’ve got to go. If you need me, call my cell.” He walked out, slamming the door behind him.

Two hours later Mariah still couldn’t concentrate on work. Shane’s words kept playing in her mind. She’d never admit it, but he might have been right. Maybe she should have worked things out with Jerry Grant. What Shane didn’t understand was that being a woman, she couldn’t be soft. Not in this business, and not if she wanted to run this project successfully. If she didn’t have the respect and cooperation of their suppliers, she’d never earn respect from the crew.

The door opened and her father walked in holding his cell phone to his ear. At fifty-five, Kurt Easton, the town councilman/businessman was an imposing figure dressed in his dark suit. He acknowledged her with a nod as he continued to talk. Mariah was used to this. Although he tried to be a caring father, he’d always been obsessed with his business ventures and trying to make a name for himself.

He’d come from poor beginnings and always blamed his poverty on the Hunters. Mariah and her younger brother, Rich, had been raised by a man who carried years of bitterness.

Her father closed his phone. “Where the hell is Hunter?”

“He said he was working with the crew.”

“I thought that’s why I brought you in. To keep an eye on him.”

She tried to brush aside the hurt. “I thought you brought me in because I’m good at my job.”

“You also need to watch Shane Hunter. He can’t be trusted. The site’s already been vandalized twice.”

She stood and stared into her father’s green eyes that were so like hers, hoping that was all she’d inherited from him. “And tell me why destroying his property would be the best thing for his company?”

Her father backed off with a shrug. “He’s a Hunter.”

“And I told you when I took this job that I wasn’t getting involved in this crazy feud. What went on years ago has nothing to do with Shane, his mother, his brother, Nate or sister, Emily.”

“How can you say that when you know Nathan Hunter cheated your grandfather James out of land, and stole the love of his life?”

Mariah had heard the story many times over the years. James Easton had been in love with Catherine Summers. Before he’d been shipped out to fight in World War II, he’d asked his friend, Nathan, to look out for Catherine. Instead, the two fell in love.

“If you continue badgering me, Dad,” Mariah continued. “I’ll have to resign.”

Her father stiffened, then his expression softened. “Okay, just make sure everything is on the up and up. I have too much invested in this project.”

“If there are any problems, I’ll let you and your partners know.”

Just then she heard a commotion outside. “Excuse me, Dad.”

She walked to the door, opened it and saw a large flatbed truck loaded down with lumber coming up the road. So her warning had been taken seriously. All her excitement disappeared when the vehicle stopped, the driver’s door swung open and Shane jumped down from the cab and marched toward her.

“You wanted the lumber delivered before noon.” He checked his watch. “I believe we have five minutes to spare.” He grinned at her as he handed her the supply order. “Now I’m going to lunch.”

Twenty minutes later Shane climbed the steps to his garage apartment behind his mother’s house. He didn’t have any appetite for lunch. That was good, since he didn’t have any food in the place. He hadn’t exactly had an opportunity to shop lately. Hell, with the hours he’d been putting in at the site, he hadn’t found much time to do anything.

Shane opened the door to the limited space he’d called home since his newly married brother, Nate, moved to the Hunter family ranch six months ago. Since all his funds were tied up in his business and this project, getting his own place would have to wait.

There was a living room and kitchen combination where a small rust-colored sofa and a large leather recliner faced the entertainment center that housed his one extravagance, a flat screen television and stereo. Two stools were arranged under the short counter that served as the dining area. A narrow hall led to a bath and his bedroom, where he knew his bed hadn’t been made in weeks.

His thoughts turned to Mariah. Not two full days on the job and already she was giving him problems. How was she supposed to help the project go smoothly if they couldn’t get along? Why hadn’t she come to him about the lumber delivery?

Well, he’d shown her, all right. He ignored the sour feeling in his stomach as he dropped his keys on the counter and opened the refrigerator. Inside was a six-pack of beer, a half gallon of milk with a week-old expiration date. He poured it out in the sink and placed the empty container in the trash.

“I guess I’ll have another food group.” He opened the bread drawer and smiled on finding his stash of Twinkies. He pulled out two and immediately ripped the cellophane off one and took a huge bite.

Just then there was a knock on the door and he finished off the other half of the cake as he went to greet his mother, who was holding a basket of clean laundry.

“Don’t tell me that’s your lunch.”

“Hello, Mom.” He took the basket from the slender woman. “And what’s wrong with what I’m eating?”

She flashed her piercing blue eyes at him. “Don’t get me started.” She sighed. “At least come down to the house and fix a sandwich. You work too hard to be skipping meals.”

“Mom, I appreciate your help with the laundry, but I can feed myself.”

“I didn’t do your laundry. I only took your clothes out of the dryer so I could use it.”

Betty Hunter tried to act tough, but she still worried about her three adult kids. Now that her oldest son, Nate, was happily married and living out at the ranch, and her daughter, Emily, had moved to L.A., she’d been concentrating all her attention on him.

“Sorry. It won’t happen again.” Shane took the basket and put it on the sofa.

“That’s what you said the last time.” She glanced around the apartment. “Now that you have a project manager, you should be able to have a personal life. By the way, how is Mariah?”

“What did Nate do? Rush over to the house to tell you?”

“Nate never said a word. You know news travels fast in a small town. Quit avoiding the question, how is Mariah? She was such a sweet girl.”

“Mom, you’re talking about Kurt Easton’s daughter. He only brought her here to spy on me. He’ll do anything to get me off the Paradise project.”

“If I remember correctly she used to be pretty smitten with you, and you were crazy about her, too.”

“High school was a long time ago,” he said quickly. “And we never should have been together in the first place. We were young and foolish.”

“That was a rough time for all of us, especially for you and Emily,” his mother said. “You were both too young to lose your father.”

When Ed Hunter died suddenly, life had changed for the family. They’d lost everything, including the Double H Ranch. They had to move into town. His mother went back to teaching and Nate came back from Phoenix and took a job in the sheriff’s department to help support the nearly bankrupt family.

Shane could still remember the whispers among his so-called friends at school. He hadn’t wanted anyone’s pity, especially not his girlfriend’s.

His mother smiled. “We had some lean years, but we all pulled through.”

“I’d like to think so, but it’s hard when you have Kurt Easton around to tell you that you’re no good.”

“Most people don’t listen to him. Look at what you and Nate have accomplished—your brother bought the ranch back and is making quite a name for himself with his wood carvings. You’ve started a construction business and won the bid on a huge project.” She smiled. “If I haven’t told you lately, son, I’m so proud of you. You can’t allow one person’s opinion to wear you down.”

“Easton’s hard to ignore.”

“If you’re referring to Mariah, she was always such a pretty girl with those big green eyes.”

Shane shot her a warning glance. “Mother.”

“Okay, I’ll stop. But only if you stop worrying about Kurt Easton. His partners hired Hunter Construction because you are the best. It’s true he holds a grudge against all the Hunters, but that has nothing to do with you.”

“Nothing?” Shane raised an eyebrow. “The man threatens me every opportunity he gets. What exactly did Grandpa Nathan do to set him off?” Shane had heard so many variations of the story he never knew what to believe.

“It was a long time ago and all the parties involved are gone,” His mother said. “Unfortunately Kurt continues to keep the bitterness alive.”

“Just tell me Grandpa didn’t swindle the Easton’s out of land?”

“No! Nathan Hunter was a fair and honest man. His only sin was that he fell in love. James Easton and Nathan Hunter were as close as brothers for most of their lives. When James went to serve in World War II, he asked your grandfather to look out for his sweetheart, Catherine Summer.

“Over the next two years, they spent a lot of time together and… Well…one thing lead to another. When James returned, he got angry, and said that Catherine had agreed to marry him. She denied any such promise. Terrible words were exchanged and their friendship ended. James Easton carried his bitterness until his death. It all should have ended then, but Kurt has continued on with his father’s grudge.”

“And Easton won’t quit until he destroys me.”

“Then don’t let him,” his mother stressed. “I know over the years he’s given Nate some problems. But to most people in town the Hunter-Easton feud is old news.”

Betty sighed. “The one I feel sorry for is Mariah,” she said. “Kurt has put the poor girl in a difficult position.”

Shane thought back to this morning and her refusal to give an inch. “I don’t think you have anything to worry about, Mariah can handle things.”

Surprisingly, his mother smiled. “Good for her.” She walked to the door.

“Whoa, whose side are you on?”

“Yours. But when it comes to women you’ve had it far too easy. It’s about time there’s someone who will make you work for what you want.”

The next morning Mariah pressed her fingers against her temples, trying to relieve the headache she’d had since getting out of bed that morning. She shook out two pain pills from the bottle, tossed them in her mouth and swallowed some coffee, hoping the caffeine would make the medication work faster. She hoped Shane wouldn’t show up for at least another hour.

She walked back to her desk just as the door swung open and the man in question walked in. Dressed in his usual work clothes—navy T-shirt and jeans—he looked too good for that early in the morning.

“Morning,” he murmured as he strolled to his desk.

“Good morning,” she returned as she watched him go through the mail.

“Is this all there is?”

“Except for the invoices, I have those,” she said.

“Why? You didn’t think I wanted to see how much money is going out?”

She had to concede he was right. “In past jobs I’ve always handled paying the invoices.”

“Go ahead and pay them, but I still want to see them to make sure we’re not being overcharged.”

“That’s my job.”

He shot her a glare. “Everything on this project is my job,” he said. “That includes yours.”

“Are you saying that you don’t trust me?”

“Why should I? Your father didn’t want me on this project. He lost that battle, but the next thing I know you show up.”

Mariah refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing her upset. “You knew there was going to be a project manager. And I’m more than qualified.”

Shane folded his arms across his chest. “Your being Kurt Easton’s daughter makes me wonder if you’re in cahoots with him to get rid of me?”

That did it. “How dare you accuse me of trying to jeopardize a project,” she said, fighting back. “I would never do that.”

“Not even for your father?”

She felt as if he’d struck her. She marched over to his side. He was tall and broad, but she didn’t let him intimidate her or stop her. She’d faced down a lot tougher men than him.

“Let’s get something straight, Shane Hunter. If you ever accuse me of mismanagement again, you better have solid proof, because nobody tarnishes my professional reputation.”

Seeing the hurt on Mariah’s face, Shane felt like a jerk. It brought back memories of another time he had hurt her. She hadn’t deserved it then and didn’t now. She hadn’t done anything but her job. He just wasn’t crazy about her being here.

“Okay. Okay. I may have stepped over the line. But believe me, your father has been riding my case since I was awarded this job. I suppose you can understand why I’m suspicious.”

“I guess I understand, but I don’t have to like it.” She jammed her hands on her hips. “And we still have to find a way to work together, because I don’t have the energy to come in here every morning and spar with you.”

He couldn’t help but smile. “Sure gets the blood going, though, doesn’t it?”

She started to grin, and quickly masked it. “Yes, but we need trust and respect between us.”

Shane wasn’t sure he was there yet. Was it because they had a past together? Was it because she was Easton’s daughter? Or was it because he realized he was still attracted to her? Okay, maybe it was a little of all of the above. “I think that will take time.”

“Time is something we don’t have. We’re behind schedule by two weeks. And that doesn’t allow for rain delays and—”

Just then the foreman walked in. “What is it, Rod?” Shane asked.

“We got trouble. There was another break-in during the night.”

“The hell you say.” Shane grabbed a hard hat and followed Rod out of the trailer with Mariah close on his heels. They made their way to the chain-link-fenced area where wood and tools were held. Graffiti had been sprayed on the plywood sheets. Vile, disgusting words had been written on the four-by-eight sheets. Several boxes of nails had been dumped around the area.

“Is anything missing?” Shane asked.

“Not as far as I can see,” Rod said. “But we haven’t had a chance to take inventory.”

“I’ll do it,” Mariah said as she looked at Rod. “Why don’t you get the crews started so there are no more delays?”

The foreman nodded, then walked away.

Shane was surprised at Mariah’s suggestion. “I can’t leave you to clean up this mess.”

“Why? You think it’s beneath me? I’ve gotten my hands dirty before. I would appreciate it if you’d send Jason and Mike to help me out. Later, you and I need to talk about better security. The drive-by patrol doesn’t seem to be doing the trick.”

“I agree with you on that one,” Shane said.

Her green eyes rounded. “Well, that’s a start. We finally agree on something.”

Around midnight Shane yawned as he slowed his truck at the turnoff to the site. He couldn’t sleep, so he decided to do something useful. Until they got the new security in place, he was going to do some checking of his own. Anything was better than lying in bed unable to sleep. Nothing he’d done could turn off his thoughts about Mariah. She just kept popping into his head. Those big green eyes, her full mouth and all that wild hair had him wound tight. She’d been pretty in high school, but she was a knockout now.

And it would be suicide to start up something with her.

This was business and if he wanted Hunter Construction to fly, he had to pay Nate back the start-up money he’d loaned him over two years ago. That meant he had to keep focused on the project. Any thoughts of Mariah had to be about how hard she’d worked on the cleanup today; how she hadn’t complained; and how she’d made a detailed list of every item by quitting time.

They both decided whoever vandalized the site wasn’t a pro. More like teenagers or someone just wanting to make trouble for Shane. His first thought was that Easton might be behind the incidents, but he couldn’t see the town councilman taking a chance on dirtying his hands with such an amateurish stunt.

The truck’s bad suspension jarred Shane in his seat. One hundred yards before he reached the trailer, he turned off his lights and parked. If anyone was trespassing, he wanted to surprise them.

That was when he saw the faint light in the trailer. Someone was inside. He got out of his truck and ran across the field. Silently he inserted his key, quietly pushed open the door and saw the person’s shadow on the wall. He reached out, grabbed the intruder and pinned him against the wall.

It didn’t take Shane long to realize that he was pressed against a soft body, a soft body with breasts.

“Let go of me,” Mariah demanded as she wiggled against him.

Desire shot through him and he fought to control his response. “Then you better tell me what the hell you’re doing here in the middle of the night.”

Chapter Three

Mariah couldn’t get air into her lungs with Shane pressed against her. His face was so close she could feel his breath on her cheek. She smelled his fresh, male scent that had traces of soap and a lot of just…Shane. It brought back memories of a different time, a time when they’d shared long, slow kisses. A time when his mere touch could give her such pleasure.

She shook away the thoughts and managed to suck in needed oxygen. “Get off me.” She pushed at him, but he didn’t budge.

“I asked, what are you doing here?”

“I’m working,” she said.

He finally released her. “Why so late?”

“I came back tonight to get some things done.” She pushed past him. “You’ve been neglecting a lot of the paperwork, Shane. I’m surprised the crew ever got paid.”

“I have an accounting service do payroll.”

“But who checks the timecards to make sure they’re correct? I’ve been wading through your mess, trying to get things straightened out.” And she hadn’t wanted to sit at home and listen to her father trash Shane the entire night. “I didn’t realize it was so late.”

“You don’t have any business here at this hour.”

“I have as much as you do,” she shot back.

Shane then ran a hand over his face. “Okay. Okay. Do you think we could try and get through five minutes without arguing?”

She shrugged. “Do you?”

“Ah, hell.” He marched to the other side of the trailer as if trying to calm down. Finally he looked at her. “Mariah, we have to find a way to work together. This might not matter to you, but if Paradise Estates doesn’t finish on schedule, I might as well kiss my construction business goodbye.”

“Why do you think I’m trying to destroy you? I have as much at stake as you do.” It hurt her that he distrusted her. She fought to keep the emotion out of her voice. “I have a reputation to uphold, too, Shane. You have to stop attacking me at every turn.”

“I’m trying. But when I walked in here yesterday and saw you…” He came back to her. “My God, Mariah, it’s been years. I couldn’t help think about how it was between us.” He reached out to touch her cheek.

She pulled away again. “You must have different memories from me. I only remember the kiss-off.” In all fairness to Shane, she’d known he’d had a rough time after his father’s death. All she had wanted was to be there for him, but he hadn’t wanted her. She’d been crushed when he’d told her he couldn’t see her any longer. What had devastated her was that he’d had time to spend with several other girls in school.

“So, I was a selfish bastard,” he offered. “I was a randy teenage boy. Besides, your father didn’t want us to be together, anyway.”

Mariah shrugged. “That never stopped us. We’d found ways to see each other.” She knew she was baiting him, but she liked seeing his reaction. “I would drive out to the ranch.”

“And you took foolish chances,” he reminded her.

She couldn’t stop the memories. She would park behind the barn, and he’d run out to meet her. She’d barely be out of her car before he had pulled her into his arms and kiss her.

She glanced at Shane. The look in his eyes told her he was remembering, too. “You never asked me to stop,” she accused.

Suddenly he drew her close again. “How could I? You were every teenage boy’s fantasy.”

Her pulse raced. Hearing his confession, feeling his hard body pressed to hers, she hadn’t the strength to pull away. She hated her weakness for this man.

Shane’s head lowered to hers, and she eagerly met his mouth. She whimpered as her lips parted and his tongue pushed inside. Sliding her hands up his chest, she circled his neck. All the feelings she’d buried so long ago suddenly surfaced. Every dream she’d had about being with Shane again hadn’t compared to this. Desire spiraled through her body, exploding through her senses, making her feel a hunger she’d never known.

Then, all too soon, it ended.

With a curse Shane released her and turned away. The rejection was excruciating for Mariah. Once again she’d let Shane Hunter hurt her.

His gaze met hers. “That was a mistake. The last thing we need is this kind of complication.”

She took a shaky breath, trying to slow her pulse. “I agree. I shouldn’t have baited you.”

He nodded. “How’s this going to make for a working relationship?”

“If you think I’m going to resign, you’re wrong. I don’t give up that easily.”

“Then we better set some guidelines.”

She didn’t like him being so calm and controlled over what just happened. “How about the first one is you keeping your hands to yourself? Let’s keep this a business relationship—nothing more.”

He started to speak, then nodded. “And how about you not coming out here alone in the middle of the night?”

She nodded. “And you tell me when a supplier has a problem with delivery. I’m not a tyrant. Something can be worked out. It’s important to me, too, that we use local suppliers for this project.”

“How about if you don’t run home every night and tell Daddy every detail of the day? I don’t want to give him any ammunition to use against me.”

She frowned. “I don’t discuss our business with anyone. But I do live with my parents…at least temporarily.”

He cocked an eyebrow. “Are you looking for a place of your own?”

She wasn’t going to tell him about the run-ins with her father. “I have my own apartment in Phoenix. I haven’t lived with my parents since before college. I would like a temporary place while I’m here, but that’s impossible to find without having to sign a lease.”

“If you’re not looking for anything special, I know of a studio apartment.”

“I’m interested.”

He nodded. “Then meet me at the Good Time Café for breakfast.”

“I don’t have time for breakfast.”

“You will tomorrow.” He picked up her purse and handed it to her. “And now we’re both going home to bed.” She tensed when he placed his hand against her back and guided her to the door. “Tomorrow we’ll put our heads together and figure out how to do our jobs.”

“I like the sound of that.”

“And I mean it, Mariah, no more coming out here alone late at night. It’s too dangerous.”

“Would it help if I told you I know karate?” When he frowned, she went on, “Maybe if someone was here it would keep the vandals away.”

“Or they could come after you.” He escorted her to the door. “The only way you get to be out here is if I’m with you. We have to start working together. Agreed?”

When he looked at her with those blue eyes, she couldn’t deny him what he wanted.

“Agreed,” she said, knowing she was in big trouble.

At six-thirty the next morning, Mariah walked into the Good Time Café. She wasn’t surprised that the fifties-style diner was crowded. The place had always been a popular spot in Haven and that obviously hadn’t changed. She glanced around at the red vinyl booths that lined the windows. A young waitress was rushing through the group of tables refilling mugs as the jukebox played an old song by the Supremes, “Baby Love.”

She recognized several of the crew as she continued to search the room. Finally she found her man seated at the counter. A jolt of awareness hit her. One curious kiss did not make Shane Hunter her man. They couldn’t afford to let anything else happen between them. They needed to keep all their concentration on the project.

She started across the room toward Shane. He was engrossed in conversation with the man next to him and he suddenly threw back his head and laughed. It had been a long time since Mariah had seen Shane this relaxed. She knew that working with her wasn’t easy for him.

Shane swung around on the chrome-and-vinyl stool. The smile faded a bit as he got up and came to greet her. “Good, you made it.”

“I figured if I didn’t show, you’d come and get me.”

“You got that right.” He took her arm and guided her to the counter. “Mariah, do you remember my brother, Nate?”

With a smile she offered her hand. “I hear it’s Sheriff Hunter now.”

The tall, handsome man in his khaki uniform stood as he took her hand. “Not for much longer. I’m retiring in another a few months. Nice to see you again, Mariah. It’s been a few years.”

She was surprised that the former football star remembered her. “Yes it has. I’ve been living in the Phoenix area.”

“Shane tells me you’re doing a good job of cleaning up his act.”

“Well, what can I say? He needs it.” She sat down on the empty stool next to him.

Nate laughed, reminding her so much of his younger brother. “Good luck. The family gave up on him years ago.”

“Hey, I’m right here,” Shane called out. “Nate, don’t you have a job to do or a wife to go home to?”

“Not at the moment.” Smiling, he turned back to Mariah. “I think things are a lot more interesting right here.”

Shane hated how Nate was acting. Smiling at her and being so sickeningly sweet. The man was married. Just then a customer vacated the stool on the other side of Mariah, and Shane sat down.

“Well, we have business to discuss, so get lost,” he said, hating his sudden possessiveness over Mariah.

Mariah looked at him. “We don’t start work until seven. Since I’m here, how about some food?”

“You want breakfast, I’ll get you breakfast,” Shane said as he waved and got the attention of the waitress.

She hurried to the counter. “What can I get for you, Shane? More coffee?”

He smiled back at the teenager. “That would be nice, Lisa, and Mariah, here, would like the breakfast special.”

He glanced at Mariah and found she wasn’t happy that he’d ordered for her. She turned to the waitress. “I would like eggs scrambled hard and wheat toast.”

After Lisa left, Nate and Mariah went back to their conversation, completely ignoring him. Seeing his brother’s sappy grin, he realized this was payback for all the times he’d flirted with Tori. Nate was wasting his time, he wasn’t interested in rekindling a relationship with his high school sweetheart. All he was interested in was them working amicably together.

Shane caught Mariah’s reflection in the mirror against the wall. His gaze locked on her expressive emerald-green eyes, then lowered to her full mouth. His heart skipped as he glanced away. So what if the woman was a turn-on. That didn’t mean he had to do anything about it, did it?

Just then Nate’s radio went off. He stood up to check the message. “Well, looks like I’m needed to help keep the peace. It was nice seeing you again, Mariah. I hope I get the chance to introduce you to my wife, Tori.”

The waitress brought Mariah her breakfast. “I’d like that.”

“Well, I’m out of here. ’Bye, bro,” Nate said as he smacked Shane on the back, then walked to the door in time to hold it for the customer coming in.

Shane groaned as Betty Hunter stood at the doorway. His fifty-five-year-old mom showed off her trim figure in her gray running suit.

Smiling, she made her way toward them. “Hello, Shane.” She kissed her son, then turned to Mariah.

“Well, if it isn’t Mariah Easton.” Betty gripped both of the younger woman’s hands. “It’s been a long time.”

“Hello, Mrs. Hunter. It’s nice to see you again.” Mariah’s gaze went over the older woman. “You look wonderful.”

“Thank you, I try to stay in shape.” She glanced at Shane then back to Mariah. “I hear that you’re working with Shane.”

“That’s right. I’m the project manager.”

Betty smiled. “Isn’t that nice.”

He could see the wheels turning in his mother’s head. “Mom, what are you doing downtown this early?”

“I got bored and decided to change my running route.”

“And you stopped by here because…” Shane nudged her.

“Well, I saw Nate’s patrol car outside and I wanted to tell him that Emily is coming home this weekend.”

Shane was surprised. “She’s flying in from L.A.? Just for the weekend?”

None of the family had been happy that Emily had chosen to work in the movie industry. Not when that meant she’d relocated to Los Angeles after college. “Maybe she’s come to her senses and is moving home.”

Betty frowned. “No. She’s not giving up on her career. But she said she’s got some good news for us. So Tori and I are planning a barbecue at the Double H Saturday.”

Shane knew his sister leaned toward the dramatic. Everything had to be a big production. “Why can’t she just tell us at the house?” Shane tried to squelch his irritation. He’d planned on putting in some extra time at the site during the weekend. “Besides, Nate always ropes me into some work at the ranch.”

“Not this time. It’s strictly a party.” His mother glanced toward the kitchen and waved to Sam Price, the owner of the café. “I’m going to invite Sam and ask him to bring his coleslaw.” His mother looked at Mariah. “Oh, and Mariah, we’d love to have you to come, too.”

Caught by surprise, Mariah stopped with a forkful of eggs midway to her mouth. “Oh, Mrs. Hunter, thank you, but I can’t intrude on family.”

“Nonsense, you could never intrude. And I’m sure Shane would love to show off the work he’s done on the ranch house. Please, I know for a fact that Emily is bringing someone with her.”

Great, now she was getting coupled with Shane. She couldn’t look at him, but she wondered how he was handling this. “Thank you, I’ll think about it.”

“Mom will get her way,” Shane began. “So you might as well agree to come now.”

Mariah laid down her fork. She couldn’t swallow anything past the lump in her throat. She smiled at Mrs. Hunter. “Okay, I’ll drive out.”

“There’s no need,” Shane spoke up again. “I’ll take you.”

Before Mariah could argue, Sam came out of the kitchen and greeted Betty.

“Hey, stranger,” he said to Shane. “I haven’t seen you in a while.”

“I’ve been sitting right here for the past thirty minutes.”

“I guess I wasn’t looking.” Sam turned to Mariah. “I’d rather look at my pretty customer. Hi, Mariah. I heard you were back in town.”

“Hi, Sam.” She smiled at the older man with the thinning gray hair and stocky build. He hadn’t changed in years. “You look just the same.”

“Holding my own. It’s harder to keep up with the kids. They don’t all like my taste in music.”

Mariah knew the old jukebox only had fifties and sixties classic rock ‘n’ roll records. Sam had probably taught most boys in Haven how to dance. “Well, I’m still a fan.”

“Good. I also hear you’ve got the tough job of keeping this guy in line.”

Shane glanced over his shoulder. “Is there a sign on my back that says Pick on Me?”

The group laughed. “We’ve never needed a sign,” Sam said, and folded his arms. “So what brings you in this morning?”

“Breakfast,” Shane offered.

“Well, I’ve got to go,” Betty announced as she touched Sam’s arm and walked away.

Shane had thought for a long time that there might be feelings between his mom and Sam. Not that they ever acted on them. But it was obvious to everyone else the two cared about each other.

After Betty left, Sam turned his attention back to Shane. “What really brings you in?”

“Mariah wants to rent your room upstairs.”

Sam shrugged. “I haven’t even been up there since Tori moved out.”

“So we’ll clean it up.”

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