Dear Reader,

How exciting to have my very first published book reissued for a special Harlequin 60th anniversary celebration. I look back on that first book, published in the mid-nineties, with a mix of elation and angst. I’ve had many changes in my career since then, but those early days taught me so much. Like how to persevere, and how rewarding it is to reach a goal.

Not many know this, but I wrote over a five-year period, completing ten novels before finally landing that first sale. I can’t say I was ready to give up, because above all, writers write. But I did get plenty frustrated—and with each rejection, I grew more determined to live my dream.

For years I had tried to find my niche, at the same time tempering the level of sensuality in my books to match what I thought publishers wanted. It wasn’t until I decided to write the book strictly for me, as sexy as I liked to read them, as emotional as I wanted the characters to be, as different from anything else I’d seen, that I got that oh-so-important phone call that all struggling authors wait for.

I can’t describe how wonderful it was to learn that Harlequin Books liked the same things I did, that they valued individuality in authors with strong voices. I wrote more than twenty books for Harlequin, and one of my most popular series, THE BUCKHORN BROTHERS, is published with them. Harlequin, and all their readers, will always hold a very special place in my heart. You let me be me, you let me write the books I love and you helped me grow into a better author.

I hope Impetuous, my first book, stands the test of time so that you can enjoy it as much now as I did when I wrote it.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you.

Lori Foster

www.lorifoster.com

www.llfoster.com

Praise for New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster

“Author Lori Foster gifts us with a diverting tale of a fiery attraction that overcomes mistrust and deceit.”

—Romantic Times BOOK reviews on Impetuous

“A Lori Foster book is like a glass of good champagne—sexy and sparkling!”

—New York Times bestselling author

Jayne Ann Krentz

“Lori Foster delivers the goods.”

—Publishers Weekly

“You can pick up any Lori Foster book and know you’re in for a good time.”

—New York Times bestselling author Linda Howard

“Lori Foster is a funny, steamy, guaranteed good read.”

—New York Times bestselling author Elizabeth Lowell

“A master at creating likable characters and placing them in situations that tug at the heart and set your pulse racing.”

—Romance Reviews Today

“The best thing about Lori Foster is her characters. She gives them hopes, dreams, problems and love. Her series are so much fun to read because she makes you feel like you’re visiting family with each and every book.”

—Kathy Boswell, Romantic Times BOOK reviews

“Foster outwrites most of her peers.”

—Library Journal

“When it comes to delivering sexy and sensual romance, author Lori Foster is in a class by herself.”

—Romantic Times BOOK reviews

Impetuous
Lori Foster

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

1

”YOU CAN’T BE a coward forever.”

Carlie chuckled, despite her nervousness. “Quit pushing, Bren. You’re not going to provoke me into rushing out into the party dressed like this.”

“Rushing? You’re already ten minutes late.” She had parked in the back of the house, away from the main flow of human traffic entering the party. Small, twinkling lights surrounded the pool and pool house, even though the weather was too brisk for swimming.

“And that’s your fault. What were you thinking, to pick me a costume that was so…so…” Carlie couldn’t quite find the words to describe the skimpy harem outfit her best friend had chosen for her. If she had to go to Brenda’s stupid Halloween party at all, she would have preferred to be a pumpkin or a witch. Anything that was less revealing.

“So…what? You look fantastic. What’s wrong with that? I want you to have fun tonight. I want you to loosen up a little and try socializing. Talk to people.”

“You mean men, don’t you?” Carlie shook her head. “I’m not a hermit, Bren. I have my students and more than enough school activities to keep me busy.” Then she glanced down at herself. “What were you thinking?”

“You said you didn’t have time to pick out an outfit yourself.” Brenda lifted one shoulder in a halfhearted shrug. “Besides, you make a very sexy harem girl. All the single men here tonight will drool. It’ll do you good to realize how attractive you can be when you aren’t hiding behind those hideous suits.”

Carlie winced. She was feeling far from attractive. Exhibited, displayed and downright exposed was more accurate. She was pretty certain she looked ridiculous more than anything else. “Which single men, exactly, did you invite?”

Brenda waved her hand in dismissal. “You’ve met almost everyone, I think. Some of Jason’s associates, a few neighbors, friends… Tyler.”

Carlie went perfectly still for a heartbeat, then frowned at Brenda. “Tyler Ramsey at a costume party? I didn’t think your notorious brother-in-law would bother with something so—”

“Don’t make fun of my party, Carlie.”

“I wasn’t. I just thought fancy banquets were more his speed.” Carlie couldn’t imagine Tyler dressed in a costume. He always seemed so…suave. And he always had a very sophisticated, very elegant woman on his arm.

“Tyler came because Jason asked him, and he would never let his brother down. You know how close they are.” Brenda shook her head and added, “You know, you and Tyler actually have a few things in common.”

Carlie turned away. “You’re dreaming, Bren. We live in different worlds.”

“You just don’t understand Tyler. He had it pretty rough growing up, too.” Then she touched Carlie’s arm. “But at least Jason was always there for him.”

“My brother had his own life,” Carlie said. “And he was right, my problems were my own.”

“Jason would never turn Tyler away if he needed help.”

“Jason’s a terrific guy. But he and Tyler are nothing alike.”

“Not now, maybe, but they used to be,” Brenda said with a grin. “But then, Jason met me. I think Tyler will be the same. When he finds someone he cares about…”

Carlie narrowed her eyes and stiffened her shoulders. “That will be a little hard for him to do when his relationships rarely last long enough to get to know a woman.”

Brenda stared at Carlie, her eyebrows raised. “You seem to be keeping pretty close track of my young brother-in-law.”

“He’s not that young.” But Carlie flushed at being caught. “I mean, he’s a grown man. He must be in his early thirties…oh, never mind.”

“Tyler’s a good guy, Carlie. He may change dates a lot, but that’s because the women he usually hooks up with are only impressed by his status in the community and his expanding financial portfolio. Tyler thinks he wants a no-strings attachment, but he’s never satisfied with it.”

Carlie had a feeling it was Tyler’s looks and outrageous charm that really attracted women, but she kept her mouth shut. She certainly didn’t want Brenda to get the idea she had a crush on Tyler Ramsey.

Good grief. A crush! No, she didn’t. Certainly not.

Carlie was shaking her head at her errant thoughts, even as she said, “You don’t have to defend Tyler to me, Bren. What he does is no concern of mine.”

“Fine. Then if you’re done stalling, can we get back to the party now? I think it’s about to rain.”

Carlie glanced up at the dark sky and smelled the moisture thick in the air. “You go on, Bren. I think I’ll just wait a few more minutes.”

Brenda hesitated, then she nodded. “Don’t be too long.”

Too long? Carlie wondered if another hour or so would be too long. She truly didn’t relish the idea of going inside, not that anyone would recognize her. Dressed so differently, no one would see her as Carlie McDaniels, grade-school teacher and spinster extraordinaire. Her persona this evening was as far from her usual self as a woman could get. Even her hair and eyes were different, thanks to the wig that came with the costume, and the colored contacts she was wearing.

She was a coward, true, but it had been two long years since her divorce, and though that had been enough time for her to gain her independence and put some order to her life, it hadn’t been time enough to repair her confidence in herself as a woman. Brenda claimed Carlie was attractive and appealing. Carlie’s ex had made an entirely different claim.

Shivering, she forced her mind away from the disturbing memories, mustered her courage and started toward the door. She could make Brenda happy by mingling for an hour or so, then she could make her escape. The thought of her small, tidy, empty house seemed very nice all of a sudden.

TYLER RAMSEY HATED parties.

Looking around in mild amusement, he tried not to appear bored. Everything was the same—the ritual, the games. There were several women, alone and obviously on the hunt, who had been eyeing him since he’d entered. A Cleopatra, an elf, an Indian maiden—they all were playing their phoney roles to the hilt. They were drawn to his reputation, he knew. The funny part was, most of it wasn’t even true.

Turning away, he wondered why he’d allowed Brenda to talk him into coming. True, he’d been bored for a while, at loose ends with himself. He needed a spark; he needed someone who could make him laugh.

His brother laughed a lot these days.

Not that Tyler wanted to settle down. He hadn’t met a woman yet with whom he could consider spending the rest of his life. Jason was lucky to have found Brenda; she was the best. But women like her were rare. Glancing around the room again, Tyler realized just what a find Brenda was. The house was filled with females, but none of them held his attention. They were all…the same. Laughing, flirting, drinking. They stood poised to best advantage, their gestures predictable.

He’d been told more than once now how dashing he looked in his pirate costume. Everyone knew it was him. He wasn’t wearing makeup as some of the other guests did. His only concession was an eye patch, worn rakishly over his left eye. A billowing white shirt that he found extremely comfortable, and tight black trousers completed the costume. His belt—wide, with a huge brass buckle—held a scabbard, with a sword resting inside it. His black boots came to his knees.

He sat in a chair, observing the crowd dispassionately. Immediately, a blond Valkyrie, brass breastplate shining in the glow of party lights, came to perch on his knee, and gave him a sly smile. He recognized that smile. It belonged to his ex-companion, Valerie. It was a smile that signaled her intent, and he used to respond to it appropriately. All he felt now was irritation. She leaned close, and he forced a polite expression to his features. They’d shared something brief, and by her insistence, with no strings attached. The outcome had been predictable.

She’d wanted a man who knew the score, who could afford the best, who moved in certain circles—her circles. She liked his sports car, his professional connections, and sex. In that order.

And he’d needed someone to help him fill his time, to give him something to think about other than his legal cases and the fact that his personal life was basically…empty. But it was over.

He knew it. Why didn’t she?

“Don’t you recognize me, Tyler?”

There was no place to put his hands, so he rested one on her back, the other on her naked thigh. “Of course. You’re a beautiful Norse goddess.” His legendary innate charm surfaced through his impatience.

Valerie chuckled throatily. “You make a very believable pirate. Have you made any plans to plunder the party and steal away with female captives?”

He didn’t feel like playing, so he conjured the lie without hesitation. “Actually, sweetheart, I have.”

She pouted, and ran her fingers through his hair. “You look so dashing, Tyler.”

He barely restrained himself from rolling his eyes. He thought of going home to his empty house—and the thought no longer seemed so unappealing.

He glanced up, and saw his sister-in-law, Brenda, standing by the kitchen door, talking with a man dressed as a Roman general. Tyler was just deciding to go home and nurse his discontent in the privacy of his own home, when Brenda turned toward the kitchen with an expectant look on her face. She gave a wide smile, and the Roman nearly dropped his glass of liquor.

Tyler felt anticipation for the first time that night. He stared, waiting. Brenda suddenly appeared to be very delighted, and he wondered why. She seemed every bit as impish as the fairy she was dressed to be.

Slowly disengaging himself from Valerie’s clinging hold, Tyler stood, his curiosity swelling. He was so intent on watching Brenda, he didn’t hear Valerie’s complaints. His eyes were glued to the kitchen doorway.

And then he saw her.

His knees locked and he felt his thighs tense. The woman stood uncertainly by Brenda, apparently oblivious to the stares she was drawing. She was magnificent.

Long, dark curly hair fell to her shoulders, and her costume left little to the imagination. Lush, was the first thought to come to mind.

She wasn’t slim, but her curves were in all the right places. Her long legs were beautifully shaped, lightly muscled, teasingly displayed in the wispy, transparent harempants. Her waist was trim, her navel a soft shadow in the gentle swell of her belly. Her shoulders, straight and broad for a woman, were held proudly, despite her obvious reluctance, and her pale breasts were very full, firm and high. She was wearing an ornate mask, that covered her face from her nose to her hairline. He didn’t care.

She bent and whispered something in Brenda’s ear. Brenda lost her smile, and looked around the room as if seeking encouragement. Her eyes passed over Tyler, then seeing his rapt stare, she turned to the harem girl. Her eyes soon followed.

He caught her gaze, literally. Even from the distance that separated them, Tyler could feel her nervousness. She seemed startled by his awareness, and displeased. She was poised for flight.

He didn’t smile. He pulled off his eye patch and started toward her. She seemed unable to move, her eyes widening. As he came closer, he saw that she was very pale and that her eyes were a startling, unnatural shade of vivid blue. Contacts? As part of her costume?

He was intrigued.

With only a few feet separating them, he was pulled to an abrupt stop by Valerie.

He glanced at Valerie with stark impatience. “I have to go.”

“Tyler, wait! I wanted to talk to you.” Her hand slid up his arm to grip his shirt. Her voice lowered to a purr. “I need a date tomorrow. For a banquet. It will be…fun.”

He didn’t have time for this. Valerie always came around when she wanted something from him. He had no doubt she needed him to gain entrée into the charity banquet. With plates going at a thousand dollars apiece, she knew there would be influential people there.

He wasn’t interested.

Shaking his head, he turned back toward the woman in the harem costume…but she was gone. He moved to the kitchen in time to see her ducking out the back door. A hundred thoughts flew through his mind.

She was exquisite, exciting, and she was evidently running. From him?

He didn’t want to lose sight of her, didn’t want to take the chance that he wouldn’t be able to find her again later. It was ridiculous, really, the urgency he felt, but he acted on it, anyway.

Brenda caught his arm as he tried to go past her.

“Tyler!” Her grip was firm, effectively stopping him. “Aren’t you going to say hi?”

“What?” His question was a bark, filled with impatience.

Brenda stared at him. “What’s the matter with you?”

“Who was she?”

Her eyebrows arching, Brenda looked behind her. “Oh…just one of the guests.”

Tyler narrowed his eyes. “She’s leaving already?”

“No, she…” Brenda shook her head. “She’s a little shy. I had to talk her into coming tonight and now she’s having second thoughts.”

“I think I’ll go get some fresh air.”

Her smile slipping, Brenda seemed startled by his abrupt statement. “It’s starting to rain, Tyler. Why would you…?”

Starting to walk away, but at a more reasonable pace, he said, “Don’t worry about it, Brenda. I promise not to track in any mud.” Then he stepped out the back door and peered through the cloudy night, trying to catch sight of her. A lighted path led to the pool house, and more lights, in an array of party colors, circled the small building. Through the smattering of raindrops falling on his face, Tyler was able to see a flash of movement. Ignoring the rain, he followed.

His heart was hammering heavily, his stride rapid on the wet flagstone walk. His muscles were so tight, his movements seemed rough and jerky. He couldn’t remember the last time he’d felt so anxious to meet a woman.

Impatience and anticipation were riding him, and he forced himself to stop outside the door of the small house. He tilted his head back, letting the rain cool his face. He was overreacting. She was only a woman, after all, he told himself.

But then he remembered her wide, startled eyes and felt his stomach clench.

He put his hand on the doorknob, half expecting it to be locked. It opened silently, allowing the muted sounds of the party to intrude.

Colored light filtered through the windows in diminished shades, elongating shadows and playing over various forms and furnishings. He gave his eyes a moment to adjust to the dim interior, and then he saw her.

She had been standing turned away from him, one hand pressed to her forehead, the other knotted at her side. But when the door closed with a soft click behind him, she jerked, then swung around to face him. Her hand fluttered to her chest and she took a hasty step backward, then halted, staring.

Tyler swallowed heavily. He could feel her nervousness, her uncertainty, and something very basic, very male, erupted inside him. He’d never known a woman to be this way, had never before felt the overwhelming urge to offer comfort, to ease a woman with assurances. He wanted—right this minute—to hold her, to touch her…to make love to her. He sucked in a deep breath, leaned back against the closed door and forced a gentle smile. “Hello.”

CARLIE FELT FROZEN in place. She could feel his eyes drifting over her body, could hear every breath he took. She didn’t know what to do. He couldn’t have recognized her, yet he obviously liked what he saw. She’d never seen a man react that way—not to her. She couldn’t speak, her voice was trapped in her throat.

He whispered softly, “You’re beautiful.”

Her eyes shifted nervously with the racing of her heart. Brenda had said men would find her attractive, but…. She hadn’t believed her, not really. Usually, Tyler never looked at her twice, but then, he’d never seen her dressed like this.

The costume was definitely a mistake.

Tyler was still watching her, and she inhaled. She had to say something. “You look…dangerous.”

His teeth flashed in a quick grin. “Not dashing?”

Confused, she shook her head. In an even lower tone, sounding of accusation and anticipation, she asked, “What happened to your date?”

He tipped his head, as if he was straining to hear her, then carefully stepped away from the door. “She wasn’t my date.”

Liar, she thought. A man like him wouldn’t come to a party alone. He attracted beautiful women without even trying. And Valerie Rush was certainly that—beautiful, chic, sophisticated and very sure of her own appeal. She was everything Carlie was not.

So why was Tyler here now? She’d always been aware of him; he was impossible to ignore. Dark, charming, a devastating man. But completely unattainable. At least for her.

Of course, after her disastrous marriage, she didn’t want any man, not even Tyler Ramsey.

He took another step forward when she remained silent, and she went back one, bumping into the wall.

He was watching her so very closely, almost stalking her, and she could feel her chest shuddering, straining for air. She trembled inside, feeling light-headed and so conscious of him as a male. She didn’t dare take her eyes off him.

He took another step.

The rain was coming down more heavily now, tapping against the windows and the wind had begun to whistle. Carlie was glad for the darkness. She didn’t want reality to intrude too quickly. She didn’t want him to recognize her. Not yet.

Maybe not ever.

He started to reach for her, then dropped his hand. “Do you know who I am?”

She shook her head. “No.” She didn’t know this man at all, so intense and attentive, exuding raw sexuality. The air was filled with his scent, his purpose.

His eyes drifted over her body again, then he stared intently into hers.

She didn’t dare say anything. What was there to say? He wasn’t reacting to Carlie McDaniels. He was reacting to the night; to the atmosphere and the mystery of a masquerade. If he knew who she was, he’d lose interest quickly enough. He’d give her that same polite nod she’d always received from him, then go on his way.

Tyler stepped toward her and she balked, feeling her back against the wall. It would be mortifying for him to realize her identity now, with her acting like such a ninny. She was a professional woman, a teacher, mature and capable. And here she was, behaving like a coward. A virgin coward.

She knew in that instant, she wouldn’t tell him. He would never find out who she was. She had to leave, had to…

His hand caught her arm. “Wait. Please.”

She trembled, trying to pull loose, stunned by the strength of his grasp.

He released her instantly. Holding his hands out to the sides, he tried to softly reassure her. “It’s okay. I’m sorry.” She trembled again, and he said, “You’re cold.”

Swamped with uncertainty, wanting to do one thing, but knowing she should do another, Carlie turned away. Then Tyler was behind her, not touching her, but the warmth of his body surrounded her. She felt a pulse beat of heat run through her, swirling in her belly. The feeling was unfamiliar…and exciting. As his breath brushed her nape, she shivered with growing sensation.

His palms grazed her shoulders, smoothing away the chills and the dampness from the rain, warming her. She was surrounded by him, by his scent.

His touch was tentative, careful, and when she didn’t move, he leaned closer, his chest barely touching her back, his thighs brushing her own. She shuddered.

His fingers continued to stroke, feather-light, up and down her arms. He drew in a slow, rough breath, then molded his hands over her shoulders, holding her. She felt his suspended breathing, his hesitation. And when he finally spoke, his voice was low and unsteady.

“I want you. I think I wanted you the moment I saw you.”

She stilled as his lips very lightly touched the side of her neck. Slowly, he drew her toward him, her back against his chest, then waited, keeping her pressed close to his solid length.

“I want you,” he repeated. “Stay with me.”

Only in her wildest imaginings had she ever considered Tyler saying such a thing to her. It was unbelievable. It was outrageous.

It was her own private fantasy.

She swallowed hard, squeezed her eyes shut, then whispered, “I want you, too.”

2

TILTING HIS HEAD BACK, Tyler exhaled slowly, then tried to relax. It was unbelievable how much her answer meant to him. She was staying.

He didn’t understand his own reaction, or hers, for that matter. He only knew he needed to get closer to her. She’d stood there in the doorway earlier, looking feminine, yet so unsure. Unlike the other women in the room, she hadn’t flaunted her assets; she hadn’t even seemed aware of them, despite the provocative harem costume that left her more bare than not. Even now, she seemed so vulnerable, so wary.

He leaned down, inhaling her fragrance, then touched his open palm to her soft belly. She jerked and pulled away.

He was surprised by her reaction, and forced himself to go perfectly still. He squeezed her shoulders again. “Shh. I’m not going to hurt you.” She remained strangely quiet, her body trembling, and then it hit him just how innocent she truly was. Suddenly, it made sense—the way she’d reacted to his interest. She was wary, and with good reason. He felt confusion first, then the unfamiliar stirring of protectiveness. He didn’t want to frighten her, didn’t want her to be uncomfortable with him. He closed his eyes and wrapped his arms around her, hugging her carefully.

“I would never hurt you.”

Her hands came up to clasp his arms where they crossed her chest, giving him her silent trust.

His chest squeezed tight. It was remarkable how she affected him. Smiling, he rubbed his chin against her temple, then turned her to face him.

He cupped her jaw, tilting her chin toward him. He could see the scant light reflected in her wide eyes. Slowly, tentatively, he bent and put his lips to hers. It wasn’t a devouring kiss, but tender and sweet. She seemed unsure of where to put her hands, then laid them lightly on his chest.

He groaned quietly, tugging her closer. “Open your mouth,” he urged, continuing to nibble at her lips.

She did, gasping, and he teased her, stroking her mouth, licking carefully at her lips, touching her tongue with his own.

After a few moments, he pulled back. Her fingers had curled tight against him, and she was panting softly. Instinctively, he pressed his arousal, full and hard, against her belly. She seemed stunned by his blatant need, and he relished her reaction to it, watching her eyes slowly close. Nothing had ever made him feel so wild or urgent, so alive with sensation, as her innocent acceptance.

Her mask was in the way and he touched his fingers to it. Instantly, she jerked back, her hand coming up to cover her mouth.

His muscles grew taut. “I didn’t…” Tyler hesitated, then shook his head. “I’m sorry. I just…it seems so…right.”

She shook her head. “You can’t take off my mask.”

His eyebrows shot up.

“I don’t want you to know…who I am.”

He stepped closer to her, feeling the heat build under his skin. She was the most fascinating woman he’d ever met. He tried to get her to look at him, but she turned away. It was unbelievably erotic, a woman appearing so demure, but wearing such an enticing costume. He touched her chin, bringing her face back toward him. “What do you want?”

Swallowing hard, she whispered, “You. This.” And she leaned toward him.

Tyler caught his breath, and then he was kissing her again. He stroked his tongue deep in her mouth, drawing her closer, feeling his urgency swell. He was no longer thinking of his own consuming desire, not entirely. Now he was driven by a need to give her everything she asked for, everything she could possibly hope for. He didn’t want her to regret trusting him.

He didn’t want her to regret anything.

When he lifted his head, she was breathless and trembling, her small hands clasping his shirt in a death grip. Moving slowly, he touched the buttons on her skimpy jacket, for the moment ignoring her mask. “A mystery lady.”

His words were deep and husky and she trembled as he undid the first button. As soon as it slid free, he raised his gaze to her face, judging her reaction.

She flattened her hands on the wall beside her hips, but she didn’t protest. Tyler smiled, then looked down to watch the slow unveiling of her breasts.

The second button was undone, and still he didn’t touch her in any other way. He was only using one hand, being careful not to startle her. The third button was straining at the material. With one finger, he traced her cleavage, over the swell of each breast, then up her throat. He looked at her lips, then traced the fullness of her mouth, pressing slightly to glide over the inside of her bottom lip.

Her lips parted and she instinctively curled her tongue around the tip of his finger. His eyes closed and he drew a slow, painful breath. When he looked at her again, she was watching him cautiously, her eyes dark in the dim shadows. He leaned forward and kissed her very gently, tenderly, his lips moving over her chin, to her collarbone, then her breasts.

The third button held, and Tyler found her nipple through the cloth. She moaned. Even through the material he could feel the heat of her body as he drew upon her, his teeth carefully nipping.

The last button opened, and he covered each breast with a warm palm, cradling her lush weight, shaping her with his hands. He pressed her breasts together and nuzzled her cleavage before moving his mouth to a nipple, licking and plucking with his lips, then finally taking her inside, suckling strongly. A sound of raw hunger escaped her, and he felt the impact of that small sound deep in his belly.

Her fingers sank into his hair, pulling him away. But he didn’t leave her. Instead, he slipped to his knees, his mouth against her ribs. Closing his eyes and locking his arms around her hips, he rubbed his face against her skin, breathing in her heated scent, tasting her.

He savored her, taking his time to explore each facet of his senses; touch and taste and smell. And sight. He enjoyed looking at her; he enjoyed her pleasure and her surprise as he found a particularly sensitive spot.

His hands cupped her buttocks, startling her. Then slowly, he removed her slippers, his fingers lingering on her slim ankles. His palms coasted up her calves, over her thighs, and to her buttocks again, squeezing and cuddling. Then his fingers hooked in the waistband of her harem pants and, still watching her, he started sliding them down.

Tyler saw her embarrassment, and he leaned forward, kissing her navel, dipping his tongue teasingly inside. He wanted to reassure her, wanted her to understand how unique this was for him. But at the moment, words escaped him.

She stepped out of the pants as he directed, then remained silent while he looked his fill.

Oh God, what she did to him.

Gazing at her from his position on his knees, he had to call upon all his restraint to keep from rushing her. He wasn’t himself. Feelings he hadn’t known existed washed over him in hot, insistent waves.

The small jacket hung from her shoulders, serving more as ornamentation than covering since her breasts were freed. The shadowy room only enhanced her curves and made the moment more intimate. He could see the darkness of her nipples, her navel, the soft feminine curls between her thighs. He lightly brushed his fingers over her, finding her wet and hot. He delved deeper, stroking her, his breaths coming fast and low.

She gasped, and her hand clasped his wrist.

He turned his palm so he was holding hers, then took her other hand also, pinning her arms gently to her sides. He leaned forward, and this time it was his tongue that stroked her. She reacted immediately, pulling away, staring at him in appalled fascination.

Again, he felt that possessiveness, that need to protect her.

Tyler came slowly to his feet, his face flushed, his chest rising and falling quickly. He kept his tone gentle and quiet. “What’s wrong?”

Her voice emerged as a dry croak. “It’s…you can’t.”

Since he now understood her innocence, Tyler didn’t press her. But he wanted her to realize the depth of her own allure. “I understand, but honey, I want to kiss you there. I want to kiss you everywhere.” He held her eyes, refusing to let her look away, then added in a husky whisper, “You taste like a woman should, very sweet and sexy.”

She shivered, then pressed her right hand over his chest, near where his heart was thundering. He covered her hand with his own, then began unbuttoning his shirt. He felt her nails as she flexed her fingers into his flesh. He’d never had a woman watch him with such intent curiosity. His body reacted to her interest, tightening and swelling. His gaze never left her face.

He removed his trousers quickly, hearing her low, fast breathing. He found a condom in his wallet, then tossed his pants aside. He laid the protection on the table.

When he turned to her again, he saw her uncertainty, and pulled her close, relishing the feel of her naked skin. Kissing her throat and shoulder, his hands curved around her body, his fingers splayed warm and firm on her sensitive belly.

He was patient and gently persuasive, but he was also very aroused. Deliberately, he nestled his fullness against her buttocks. He needed her to know the effect she had on him.

He kissed her for a few moments, and when he finally slid his fingers down her belly and into the soft curls between her legs, she didn’t draw away. His fingers delved deeper, and she moaned.

His heart thundered at the small sound. “That’s it. Relax, sweetheart.” He slid a finger inside her, and she quivered, letting out a short cry. “You’re wet,” he said, softly stroking her, bringing his other hand up to hold a heavy breast, idly plying the nipple with his thumb. She leaned back on him, gasping, and he smiled.

She clutched at his hard thighs, her fingers biting deep into his muscles. Her legs stiffened, and soft, hungry sounds escaped her throat.

Close to losing what was left of his control, Tyler lifted her into his arms and carried her quickly to the narrow couch. He laid her down, coming over her and pulling her close.

She moaned as his mouth closed over her nipple, then moaned again when he smoothed his hand over her soft belly and into her feminine curls. His fingers stroked, dipped, plucked lightly, making her squirm. He lowered his mouth to her nipple and toyed with it, teasing her with his tongue and teeth.

Her climax took him by surprise. It gripped her body, forcing her to arch wildly, her eyes closed, her mouth open as she gasped and gave low, throaty moans. Enthralled, Tyler watched her, feeling her pleasure and her loss of control. Seeing her shock.

And when the rushing sensations would have ended, Tyler bent to taste her, crushing down on her with renewed urgency, his hand holding her face still for his kiss. She was crying, unable to help herself, and he kissed her jaw, undone by her soft, breathy sighs.

“It’s all right now. Shh.”

She shook her head. With tears clogging her throat and reflecting in her voice, she whispered brokenly, “I’ve never…”

“Shh. I know.” His mouth skimmed hers, his eyes alight with satisfaction and possession.

He couldn’t wait any longer.

Lifting slightly away from her, he reached for the condom and slid it on. She didn’t watch him, but he didn’t think it was embarrassment now, so much as repletion. Her breasts, heaving still, showed soft and white, reflecting the scant light. Her belly still quivered. But there was a small, awed smile on her lips, a look of wonder that filled him.

Thunder clapped loudly outside, and the storm picked up tempo, mirroring his explosive emotions.

He began kissing her again, light, biting kisses that made her smile and open her eyes. His muscles were taut, straining for release. She laid her palm to his cheek.

He sat back to look at her, running his fingers through her hair. It was then he realized she was wearing a wig. The hair was too coarse, too dense to be real. The fact that she had taken such pains to conceal herself only added to her intrigue. His mystery woman.

She pulled him closer in silent demand.

He reached down and parted her with his fingers, then gently pushed inside. His groan was long and ragged. Gasping, she twisted against him, her arms tightening, her hips lifting to his. He pressed her knees wider, giving himself more access to her body, then clenched his jaw as he sank deeper. “There we go. All the way.”

She shuddered as her body adjusted to his length and thickness. It was pure fantasy, he thought, wishing he could stay like this forever. She squirmed beneath him in delicious sensation.

Tyler shuddered, pressing his hips to hers to still her movements, trying to maintain his barely leashed control, but it was too late. He reared up, his arms stiffened on either side of her, his eyes hot and probing, holding her gaze. Then he began to move.

The friction was exquisite, and she lifted her hips toward him, taking more, her legs wrapping around him. His gaze dropped to her breasts, to her tightened nipples. He was enthralled, watching her full breasts sway as each of his thrusts rocked her body.

He threw his head back, biting off a groan. His jaw was tense, his words a growled whisper. “I don’t believe this!”

He felt her tighten around him, felt the pulsing of her climax. He groaned heavily, and his body went rigid as he climaxed. Then he stilled.

His weight was now fully upon her and his heartbeat rocked his body with its uneven cadence. He stroked her idly, without thought, without even knowing what he was doing. She smelled so good, and he felt so good.

She stirred beneath him, and he obligingly raised himself to his elbows. Her mask was askew, and he smiled at the picture she made, tousled innocence, sensual lure. He didn’t want the night to end.

“Do you have to go anytime soon?”

That surprised her.

Smiling, Tyler stroked her cheek. “Will you stay with me for a while longer?”

Her smile was shaky, a bit uncertain, but it was a smile.

Laughing, feeling incredibly lighthearted, he held her tight as he turned on the couch, putting her on top of him. She came up on her elbows, her heavy breasts swaying over his chest.

“Now, this is nice.” His hands cupped her, his thumbs flicking over her soft, dusky nipples until they drew tight.

“Can you scoot up just a bit,” he growled. “I want you in my mouth.”

Her lips parted, but she complied, her breath already thickening. Tyler swept his hands down her back and spread them wide over the buttocks, pressing her close.

“I’m going to make love to you all night, honey. I want to show you all the different ways to enjoy yourself. I’m going to see to it that you’re so overwhelmed with pleasure, you won’t be able to resist seeing me again.” He said the words quietly just before he took her nipple in his mouth, licking and teasing and making her shudder. His hands moved over her bottom to the back of her thighs, then parted her legs so she was draped over him. “You’ll wake up at night and think of me touching you.” His finger slid inside her and she tensed, her hips pressing hard against him.

“I want you to think of me,” he explained, loving her with his fingers until she trembled uncontrollably, “because I know I’ll be thinking of you.”

TYLER HELD to his promise, exhausting both himself and Carlie with pleasure.

Hours later, long after midnight, he slept, still holding her close. Carlie was stunned by all that had happened, never having imagined that such complete satisfaction was possible.

Tyler lay relaxed beside her, one heavy muscled arm circling her belly, his hand splayed over her hip. He was even beautiful when he slept, she thought, when the lines of his face softened, making him look almost vulnerable.

Of course, he could never know the truth. She would be mortified if Tyler ever discovered he’d made love with his sister-in-law’s dumpy best friend. Tyler didn’t even look at women like her, let alone sleep with them.

Not that she wanted it any other way. She was dumpy by design, choosing her clothes with an eye for concealment, rather than enticement. She didn’t want a man, any man—not now, not ever.

Relationships hurt. She’d learned that lesson after her marriage failed. And she’d also learned she could rely on no one but herself. Not on the grandfather who’d raised her after her parents’ death, treating her more like a burden than a grandchild, nor on her brother, who’d made it clear she was to deal with her mistakes on her own.

But marriage had been her biggest mistake. One she wasn’t likely to forget.

She could never tell Tyler the truth, but at least she’d learned something valuable; she wasn’t frigid. Her husband had been wrong, his accusations unjust. Probably, it had just been another of his attempts to destroy her self-confidence. But now she knew the truth, and for that, if nothing else, she was glad she’d stayed with Tyler.

He shifted in his sleep, and she stilled, watching him closely, but he didn’t awaken. She leaned down and very gently kissed him on the corner of his mouth, then slipped from the couch.

By the time Tyler woke, a smile of anticipation on his face, Carlie was gone.

3

”YOU CAN’T TELL anyone I was at the party.”

Brenda tugged Carlie through the kitchen door and then quickly shut it. “I wondered all night what happened to you. Where did you go? Why did you leave so soon? I thought for sure you were going to enjoy yourself.”

Wincing, Carlie gave Brenda an apologetic look. She had enjoyed herself, all right, just not the way Brenda had expected. She pulled out a chair at the round wooden table and slumped into it. “I didn’t mean to worry you. I’m sorry.”

“So what happened? Why did you run off?”

Hesitating, Carlie tried to decide how much to tell her friend. It wouldn’t be the whole truth, that was for certain. Somehow, the night seemed…magical, something she could tuck away and keep to herself. She couldn’t share it, not even with Brenda. But she had to tell her something….

“Brenda…I felt really foolish…in the costume. Maybe if I hadn’t been wearing something so…”

“Sexy?”

Carlie spared her friend a quick look, and saw Brenda was smiling. “Yeah, well, maybe. I just couldn’t face all those people looking like that.”

“I’m sorry I pushed, Carlie. I just wanted you to realize how attractive you are. Those damn baggy suits you wear make you look fat.” Brenda pursed her lips, then idly traced the wood grain in the table with a fingertip. “Tyler noticed you.”

Carlie felt her heartbeat race. “I… Did he say something to you?”

“He asked who you were.”

“You didn’t tell him!” Carlie nearly choked on her embarrassment, waiting for Brenda’s reply.

“No. I just told him you were a guest.” Then she patted Carlie’s arm. “Hey, calm down. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if Tyler took a liking to you. You have to admit, he’s gorgeous.”

Oh, yeah, he was gorgeous. Carlie licked her lips, then said carefully, “He, ah, approached me.”

“He did?”

“Yes.” Carlie cleared her throat, then immediately launched into her rehearsed story. “We talked for a while. In, ah, the pool house.”

When Brenda’s eyes widened, Carlie reminded her, “It was raining, remember? And we went inside to stay dry. He, well, he was attracted to me.”

“No kidding?”

Carlie hated the note of fascination in her friend’s tone. She also hated lying to her, but she didn’t see any way around it. Brenda leaned forward. “So, what happened?”

Carlie shrugged. “He didn’t recognize me.”

“Well, of course he didn’t! He’s used to seeing you looking like this!” Brenda indicated Carlie’s dark, frumpy suit. With her honey blond hair in a tight braid and a pair of glasses perched on her nose, she looked nothing like the harem girl of the night before.

“This isn’t funny, Brenda!” Carlie felt like strangling her. “And you can’t ever tell him, either. I don’t want him to know it was me he was…flirting with.”

Brenda looked skeptical. “Ah, Carlie, don’t you think—”

Whatever Brenda was going to say was cut off by a loud voice from the living room. Seconds later, Jason and Tyler strode into the kitchen. Carlie stiffened, all her defenses jerking into place. But her face remained impassive. Almost painfully so. There was absolutely no way she would let Tyler know she was the woman he’d spent the night with. She didn’t even want to think about how mortifying that would be.

Brenda didn’t miss a beat after shooting Carlie an I’m not-responsible-for-this look. “I thought you fellas were going fishing. What happened?”

Tyler reached Brenda first. He leaned down and lifted her from her chair, giving her a tight bear hug and a kiss on the cheek.

Brenda’s face turned pink. “What did I do to deserve that?”

Tyler’s smile was so warm and sincere, Carlie had to look away. “You invited me to your party.” Then he added softly, “Thanks.”

Jason shook his head, and Carlie had the horrifying suspicion that Tyler had confided to him what had happened. Don’t blush, don’t blush! She glanced at Jason, but he was looking at his wife.

Leaning down, he kissed Brenda, then nodded briefly to Carlie. “The fish weren’t biting and it’s damned cold out there. Besides, Tyler can’t seem to sit still today.”

Tyler pulled out a chair and straddled it, crossing his arms over the chair back. “Could I have some coffee, Bren? Then I need to talk to you.” He glanced at Carlie, and smiled. “Hi. Ah, Carlie, isn’t it?”

“Hello.” Carlie mentally applauded her calm response. She was more than a little surprised Tyler remembered her name. She prayed it was all he remembered. And then she looked at him, and despite herself, she remembered lying beside him in the pool house, remembered that magnificent body of his leaning toward her… She looked away, trying to collect her thoughts. Good looks only took a person so far, and from what she knew of Tyler, his had taken him around the block more than a few times. Last night had been a milestone in her life; to Tyler, it had probably been no more than a good time.

Carlie breathed a sigh of relief when she realized he hadn’t connected her to the party. His expression had been friendly, nothing more. Already he was ignoring her, dismissing her easily.

“I’ll have the coffee ready in just a minute.” Brenda was grinning affectionately at Tyler, obviously more than pleased to cater to him.

Tyler tapped his fingers on the table with an excess of energy. His gaze took a turn around the room, then settled on Carlie again. “So. What are you ladies up to today?”

She felt her heart flutter and color rise to her cheeks. Carlie wanted to smack herself. Enough was enough. She would not be an idiot around this man. She composed her features and met his look squarely. “We were talking about the new sports program I’m working on for the school.” She paused, then decided to elaborate. “It’s a way to help the kids who have trouble socializing. They’re not bad kids but they just aren’t sure how to conduct themselves with their peers. They need guidance and a chance to interact, with supervision. If they’re playing a sport, they’ll be getting exercise, burning off energy and learning to work together. I think the program will go over pretty good. I thought I’d try basketball first. The kids have to play together, but since it’s not really a contact sport, tussles ought to be kept to a minimum. Brenda and I were just discussing how great it is that Jason has agreed to be an instructor.”

Tyler listened, his eyes intent on Carlie’s face, watching her so closely she felt herself near to blushing again. “Sounds like you really care about these kids.”

His tone was soft, almost disbelieving, and Carlie stiffened. “Of course I do. I care very much about all my students.”

Tyler rubbed his chin, still watching her. “And you really think you can make a difference?”

Carlie leaned back in her chair, forgetting her embarrassment, forgetting last night. The gall of the man, to question her like this! With her hands in fists, she replied, “I’ll certainly do my best to. At least I’m trying to do something to help.”

Jason looked at Carlie, then Tyler. A smile appeared. “I, ah, suppose I should tell you something, Carlie. I won’t be able to help you, after all. Some things came up at the office.” His grin widened, and he shrugged. “I talked to Tyler this morning, and he agreed to do the project with you, instead.”

Carlie closed her eyes for a heartbeat, praying she hadn’t heard that. But when she opened her eyes, Tyler was still watching her, his smile now smug.

She cleared her throat and shoved her glasses needlessly up the bridge of her nose. “I don’t know, Jason.” What excuse could she use after practically challenging the man to help? “Maybe that wouldn’t be a good idea.”

It was Tyler who answered her. “Why not?”

Floundering, she racked her brain, but couldn’t come up with a valid reason. “You understand, it will be three or four nights a week? And we need someone who will set a good example for the kids. Someone patient.”

Tyler raised his eyebrow, looking affronted. “I’d be a good example. Hell, I’m a lawyer, same as Jason. I’ve been to college. I’m articulate.”

“You’re even housebroken,” Brenda added, seeming to enjoy the situation.

He nodded. “Damn right.” Then to Carlie, “You see? I’ll be perfect for the job.”

“But…” The truth was, she simply didn’t want to work with Tyler. Not now, not after last night. “I don’t know. Have you ever worked with kids? And remember, these kids can be a little…difficult.”

Jason interrupted. “Tyler should understand them on a gut level, because he was always damned difficult, too.”

Tyler laughed. “So it’s settled. When do we start?”

Carlie stood with as much aplomb as she could muster. Tyler’s eyes drifted over her body, almost out of habit, it seemed, but there was no sign of recognition in his expression. It rankled, even while she prayed he wouldn’t make the connection. She tugged at the bottom of her tailored suit coat, smoothing it over her slacks. Then she used a tactic that had worked with many rebellious students. She deliberately looked down her nose at him. “I’ll have to let you know.”

Tyler merely nodded. “You do that.”

Brenda rushed forward to give Carlie a hug. “Give me a call later. Promise?”

“Of course. And thanks for the company, Bren. See ya’ later, Jason.” She ignored Tyler, not feeling the least bit guilty about it, and exited the room, her back stiff, her tight braid pulling at her temples. She wasn’t entirely out of the house when she heard Tyler say, “That has to be the prickliest woman I’ve ever met. I got the distinct impression she didn’t like me. Can you imagine?”

Jason’s laugh was sharp. “Unheard of, isn’t it?”

There was a shrug in his tone when Tyler replied, “There’s just no figuring some women.”

Carlie allowed the door to slam just a bit too hard behind her.

IT WAS A VERY NEAT, utilitarian office. Carlie was surprised at how functional each piece of furniture was, with only a modicum of necessary decorations. The walls were beige, the carpet a swirling mixture of blues and creams. The sofa and two chairs were upholstered in a rough nubby fabric of a deep blue, and the wooden end tables were light oak. It was a comfortable room, without any indication of Tyler’s personal style, which she’d assumed to be rather flamboyant.

The office door opened and Tyler stepped out, accompanied by the secretary who had first greeted Carlie. His smile was warm, a natural smile that Carlie knew he bestowed on almost every female he encountered. Beyond him, she could see into his office, and noticed his desk strewn with papers and files. Suddenly, she realized how disruptive, and presumptuous, her visit was, but she also knew if she hadn’t come today, she wouldn’t have come at all. Brenda had told her he’d been asking about the harem girl from the party. He wanted to know who she was.

Carlie hoped he would eventually give up and forget about that night…but then, she also knew how badly it would hurt her if he was able to do just that.

Lately, she felt awfully confused.

“I’m sorry I kept you waiting, Carlie. I didn’t realize it was you. I’m not familiar with the name McDaniels.”

Of course, he wouldn’t be. Carlie took his hand. Very briefly. “I hope I’m not interrupting. I can see you’re busy. I just wanted to stop by and tell you I’d like to accept your offer of assistance for our new sports program.” She was rushing through her words, but she couldn’t seem to stop herself. She’d spent three days stewing over what to do, and finally decided that her personal embarrassment had to take a back seat to the kids’ problems. She was the only one who knew she had reason to be embarrassed, and since no one else had agreed to help, Tyler was her only option.

“We hope to start next week, so I wanted to drop off the material I’ve put together. You might want to look it over before meeting the children.”

Tyler accepted the papers she thrust toward him, then motioned her into his office. “Come on in and have a seat.”

“I don’t want to take up too much of your time.” And she wanted to get away from him as quickly as possible.

He lifted one shoulder in an exaggerated shrug. “I needed a break, anyway.”

Carlie followed him into his office and sat on the edge of a straight-back, narrow leather chair. Tyler went behind his desk, seating himself with all the officious attitude of any good lawyer.

After skimming through the papers she’d given him, he looked at her again. “You’re very thorough.”

She blushed and she hated herself for it. “It’s just a basic overview of the children who will begin in the program. I thought it would help if you knew what kind of problem each child was having and what their backgrounds were like. The idea is that any child who collects more than three after-school detentions or in-school suspensions will have the choice of joining the team or having their misconduct shown in their grades. Of course, if they choose to join the team, they’ll have to contribute wholeheartedly and follow instructions to the letter. In other words, they’ll have to work together and get along. They’ll have to accept that rules have a purpose, and everyone has to follow them. The program had been used in several schools. So far, it’s been very promising.”

Tyler nodded, then gave her another of his intent, probing stares. “How many children will we be starting with?”

Carlie cleared her throat and looked away. She let her eyes roam around his office while she spoke, pretending an interest in his bookshelves, but really trying to avoid his stare. “The list I’ve given you has nine kids. Of course, that number can change daily. And the children will be released from their obligation whenever they show an improved attitude toward school. But no child will ever be forced to quit the team.”

“Will we get to compete against other teams?”

Carlie didn’t answer right away. Tyler’s genuine interest amazed and confused her. She had half expected him to give only a show of concern. But he was studying the list, all signs of the womanizer gone while he perused her notes. She was looking at the top of his head, at how thick and dark his hair was, how it curled just the tiniest bit. He glanced up and caught her staring. At his hair for crying out loud.

He ran his fingers through it negligently. “What’s the matter? Have I sprung a streak of gray?”

Carlie folded her arms defensively. “No, I…no. I was just thinking.”

Tyler laid the file down, once again giving her his full attention. “About what?”

“About…whether or not we’d be playing other schools, of course,” she said quickly. Then, taking a deep breath, she continued. “I don’t believe so, at least not at first. If after a time the team shapes up, that would be entirely your decision how far to carry it.” Carlie forced herself to stare at him directly, though she felt a faint blush on her cheeks.

Tyler smiled at her again, leaning back in his chair and folding his hands across his stomach. “You have the most unusual eyes. Very intense. Especially now, while we’re talking about the children. I don’t believe I’ve ever seen that exact shade of hazel.”

She stiffened. “Thank you, but I don’t think the color of my eyes has any bearing on this program.”

“It was just an observation.”

He was still leaning back in his chair, his posture relaxed, his gaze lazy, and Carlie realized he was deliberately provoking her. She decided not to oblige him. She came to her feet, still holding his gaze, and stared down at him. “Personal observations aside, do you have anything else you’d like to discuss?”

Carlie watched as he struggled to stifle his amusement. He stood behind his desk, his dark eyes warm and smiling. Then, leisurely, he began looking her over. She tolerated his perusal, trying to keep her expression blank, even while her pulse raced and her palms grew damp. She was well aware of what she looked like. Her suit was a deep, dark green, almost brown, and it was cut in straight lines, effectively hiding any signs of her figure.

“You’re tall for a woman.”

What an inane comment. But true. Carlie’s head was just about even with his nose, and she was wearing flats. She glanced down at her shoes when he did. They were ugly, round-toed, and extremely comfortable.

She drew on disdain to hide her sudden discomfort. “If you don’t have any other questions about the program, I’ll be on my way. I wouldn’t want to keep you from anything…important.” She turned, and headed for the door without another word.

Tyler came around his desk and stepped in front of her, blocking her exit. He wasn’t grinning now, but she could still see the humor in his eyes. “Forgive me, Carlie. I didn’t mean to be rude.” Before she could reply, he lifted the folder in his hand. “May I keep this?”

She watched him warily. His apology sounded genuine, but she still felt he was laughing at her. She gritted her teeth, wishing she could rid her mind of intimate thoughts concerning Tyler Ramsey. She hadn’t thought of a man that way in a very long time.

She was determined to stop right now. She didn’t return his smile, or acknowledge his apology. “Of course. I have my own copy.”

Tyler gave her an amused, mischievous grin, almost as if he’d read her thoughts. “Excellent. When do we start?”

“How soon can you start? I’ll send home the notices to the parents as soon as you give me a schedule that suits you.”

“Tell you what. Let me check things over and I’ll get back to you tomorrow. What time do you leave the school?”

Carlie hesitated. “Around four.”

“I’ll come by then. Maybe we could go somewhere and work out a schedule that will suit us both.” He indicated his cluttered desk. “Unfortunately, I don’t have the time right now to take care of it.”

“I…” Carlie mentally scurried for excuses. She did not want to go anywhere with Tyler Ramsey. The man had a chaotic effect on her senses. He had only to smile at her, and memories came rushing back, so intense, so powerful, that her stomach clenched and her nerve endings rioted. She hoped her thoughts of him would fade with time; she hoped she could eventually forget him completely.

It wouldn’t happen today. Though she hated to admit it, even to herself, he rattled her as few people could. But she refused to be a coward about the situation. The best way to deal with a problem was to face it head-on, she reminded herself. Summoning a bland smile, she nodded. “That would be fine, Tyler. Thank you.”

SHE WAS STANDING at her desk, stacking papers, when Tyler walked in. Her door was open, so he took a moment to simply look at her. Dressed in another of her prim, spin-sterish outfits, her hair pulled back in a braid, she looked like the epitome of the perfect schoolmarm. And she was humming softly.

He felt something shift inside him. Never in his own school days could he remember a teacher like her, someone who actually wanted to help. He’d always thought of Carlie as simply Brenda’s friend, a little odd, a lot frumpy, but nice enough.

Now he had to look at her with new respect.

Raising a hand, he gave two sharp knocks on the open door. She jerked, looking up with wide eyes and peering at him through the lenses of her glasses.

“They told me at the office where I could find you.” He stepped in, looking around the room with interest. “Very nice.”

She smiled with an obvious touch of pride. “Thank you. I try to make the classroom nice. It should be a comfortable place to be, an easy place to be. Do you know what I mean?”

Strangely enough, he did. The room was decorated in bright colors with plenty of the children’s artwork hanging on the walls. It was a thought-provoking room. He walked toward a workstation that was filled with hands-on activities. There were dominoes, rubber stamps and numerous math games. The room gave an overall appearance of bustling activity. He smiled at her, seeing that she was watching him cautiously. “You like to teach.”

She straightened. “Yes. And I’m good at it. Children respond well to me.”

She could be so damned bristly, with no real provocation. “I’m sure you are. You’re authoritative, but gently so. Children wouldn’t be afraid of you.”

Lowering her eyebrows, she gave him a ferocious look, as if she didn’t trust the sincerity of his words. He smiled back, and waited.

Finally, she nodded. “No child should ever be afraid. Certainly not of their teacher. I do my best to make sure they’re at ease, to let them know they can talk to me if they need to.”

Tyler turned away. He didn’t want her to see how she affected him. He could still remember being a kid himself, feeling defensive and hurt because his dad wasn’t around, and his mother couldn’t be bothered. His teachers hadn’t cared about a kid with problems. Their idea of understanding was to send him to the office whenever he upset their lessons.

He certainly hadn’t had a teacher like Carlie.

“What is it, Tyler? What’s wrong?”

Her perception was uncanny. He realized he was holding a math paper one student had left on a desk, and he slowly laid it down and turned to her. “I have the greatest respect for teachers. For anyone having a gift with children. There are too many people out there who don’t care about kids, even their own.”

He knew he shouldn’t have said so much the minute the words were out of his mouth. Carlie was scrutinizing him carefully. He shook his head and wandered around the room, surveying all the desks, laughing when he saw one that was overflowing with old papers. He straightened a chair, centered a book, replaced a pencil that had fallen on the floor.

Carlie began helping him tidy up. “The children may like me, but they’re always in a hurry to leave when the bell rings.” She indicated the disheveled desks. “They tend to be a little sloppy at times.”

Tyler refocused on her. “Do you have children of your own?” He discovered he was suddenly very interested in her.

“No.”

Just that one curt word. He crossed his arms over his chest. “You’re not married?”

“Mr. Ramsey…”

He smiled. “Do you want children of your own someday?”

Lowering her gaze, she ignored his question and pulled her purse from beneath her desk. “We’d better be going. I have tests to grade tonight and lessons to prepare for the morning.”

He accepted her change of subject without comment, and motioned for her to lead the way. They’d be spending a lot of time together, several nights a week. He’d get to know her better, and she would eventually warm up to him.

That thought brought with it images of another woman, a woman who had warmed up to him, only to leave him. He still felt irritated when he thought of how he’d woken up alone, a stupid smile on his face. But even then, he hadn’t considered that was the end of it. He’d assumed he’d find out who she was from Brenda, then have the pleasure of getting to know his harem girl better.

But Brenda said the woman didn’t want to be identified, and short of telling her why he wanted to know, he couldn’t very well demand the mystery woman’s name. But he hated the thought he might never see her again, and he hated even more that the night had evidently meant so little to her. It had been special to him, a night to cherish.

And the woman didn’t want anything to do with him.

Carlie was halfway to the door when Tyler caught up with her, automatically taking her arm. “Let’s take my car, and I’ll bring you back here when we’re finished.”

“I’d prefer to drive.”

Bristly. She was stiff, her arm rigid in his grasp. He had the distinct notion she resented his touch, though he hadn’t a clue why. He was getting a little disgruntled with female rejection, and the question came out a little sharper than he’d intended. “Why?”

She didn’t look at him, but he saw her pull her bottom lip between her teeth. She had a nice profile, he realized, and the lip she was punishing was soft and full. Then she nodded. “Very well. You may drive.”

4

TYLER HAD very large hands.

Carlie stared, without meaning to, as he cut into a piece of peach pie, then put the bite in his mouth and chewed. His jaw was strong, lean and hard, with only a slight shadow of dark beard stubble. His nose, straight and high-bridged, would appear aristocratic but for the lump where he had broken it in a fight when he was younger. Bren had told her the story, about how Jason had joined in and the two brothers had ended up defeating four other kids.

His eyebrows were straight and dark. His lashes thick and long. His cheekbones high and sculpted. There was a healthy color to his skin, not a dark-baked tan, but definitely the added color of outdoor activities.

Carlie sipped her coffee, her gaze going again to his hands. She remembered those hands so well, the way they had touched her, their strength, their gentleness. The memory gave her an odd tingle.

“Aren’t you going to eat your pie?” he asked.

Carlie pulled her eyes away from his hands. She nodded and took a large mouthful to give her something to do, namely chew, while Tyler filled the silence with questions.

“I could come to the school Friday, around four again, if you want me to do some sort of sign-up, or make a roster. What about you? Can you make it, or is that too soon?”

“Friday would be terrific. I’ll put out a few calls tomorrow during lunch to see who can stay over. The ones who can’t make it can have a schedule Monday.”

Tyler pulled a piece of paper from his pocket. “These are my best times to get together. I tried to make them as regular as possible, so the kids can know what to expect. You can look that over then let me know if you’ll have a problem with any of those dates.”

She tucked the paper into her purse. “It’ll be fine.”

“You didn’t even look at it. How do you know it won’t interrupt your plans?”

Carlie gave him a quick smile. “We’re glad to have your help. Whatever works for you is fine with me.”

Tyler laid his fork by his plate and shook his head. “You know the saying about all work and no play? You have to take time for a social life, too.”

“Why don’t you let me worry about my social life, all right?” she said, annoyed with his persistence.

“What social life? It doesn’t sound to me as if you have one.”

That was entirely too close to the truth, and rubbed Carlie the wrong way. “Look, Mr. Ramsey. You may be the authority on having a good time, but I take my commitments seriously.”

She watched Tyler’s face go rigid, and then he leaned toward her. “And I don’t?”

“Not from what I hear.”

Leaning back, Tyler observed Carlie thoughtfully. “You know, if we’re going to work together, you’ll have to get over your attitude. I don’t know why you dislike me so much, but it’s not something I’m used to. Nor do I intend to get used to it.” He waited a heartbeat, and Carlie felt his annoyance wash over her before he added, “I’d really like to work with you and the kids. But if you would rather find someone else to help you with your project, I’ll drop out.”

It was plain, by his tone and expression, he didn’t want to do that. He wanted to be involved, for whatever reasons, and Carlie did need him. She hated to admit the truth, but it was her own personal conflict that was causing the problems. What she needed was an emotional compromise.

After adjusting her glasses, she straightened. “I think we can manage to get along if we keep it on a business level.”

Tyler shook his head. “No go. I don’t have a ‘business level.’ You’re going to have to get your little nose out of the air and be friendly.”

Her compromise exploded into oblivion. Did everything have to be his way? “You’re an extremely arrogant person!”

His chuckle was warm and husky. “Bren says the same thing regularly. Funny, it sounds almost affectionate coming from her.”

“She’s too softhearted.”

“Yes, she is. It’s amazing you two are friends.”

Uh-oh. Dangerous territory. Carlie held his gaze with an effort, the implied insult overlooked entirely. “We’ve known each other for a long time.”

Tyler considered that. “Do you know many of her other friends?”

“A few.”

“Who?”

Ah, so that was it. He didn’t for one minute suspect her as the mystery woman from the other night; she was too unlikely to even be considered. But he was fishing to find out who the woman was. She hesitated just long enough, pretending deep thought, until he cleared his throat.

Several names came to mind, most of the women quite attractive, and Carlie named them, watching as he pondered each one. She was ready to laugh, when a familiar voice interrupted them.

“Ms. McDaniels! How nice to see you here. And how is my boy doing?”

Carlie smiled, and turned in her seat to face Mr. Briant.

She was totally at ease as a teacher dealing with a parent, and invited him to join their table. She reassured the anxious father, taking a few minutes to go over things he could do at home that would help his son improve his skills even more. She was specific, but very patient with the man’s concerns. She was also aware that Tyler was watching her, sipping his coffee and listening to their conversation intently. He looked almost…impressed by her.

When the father finally left, Tyler lifted his coffee cup in a salute to her. “Does that happen often?”

“Yes. This is a small town, and thankfully the parents are, for the most part, very involved with their children’s education.”

“Your Mr. Briant seemed to hang on your every word.”

Carlie smiled crookedly. “We had a misunderstanding of sorts with the first failing grade I sent home with his son. You see, he decided it was my fault, and came to the school to tell me so.”

“Let me guess. You chewed him up and spit him out, right?”

Carlie’s smile froze. “I’m not an ogre. He was upset, so I tried to explain. I pulled out all the papers I had been keeping on his son, Brady, and showed them to him. I went over the procedure we used with new materials, and I told him his son was distracted and not paying attention in class.”

“Carlie, I didn’t mean—”

She shook her head. “It’s all right. I know what you meant.” Idly stirring her coffee, she whispered, “It was such a sad situation. Mr. Briant had just lost his wife. He was very withdrawn and angry. He hadn’t been able to concentrate on his son yet, who was having his own problems adjusting.” She sighed, remembering how difficult it had been to see the father and son together, each struggling with his loss. “We spent a lot of time together after class. Sometimes we worked on lessons, but a lot of the time we just talked. I…I lost my parents when I was young, so I knew how Brady must have felt. At a time like that, school work kind of takes a back seat to trying to survive the emotional pain.”

Tyler was studying his coffee cup. “It must have been rough for you.”

His quiet words, filled with understanding and sympathy surprised her.

She nodded. “Everything worked out, though. After Brady started catching up, Mr. Briant joined us in our after-school lessons. I think he was lonely, too, and looking for some direction. He wanted to learn how to help his son study, so for a few weeks I helped him do that. Now they’re on their own, and Brady Briant is earning A’s.”

Tyler stared at her, and Carlie could feel him looking beneath her calm control, trying to read her thoughts. “You’re very dedicated,” he said quietly.

“You have to be dedicated, to any job, if you want to do it well.” Then she smiled, curious over Tyler’s distracted expression. “That’s no reason to be so solemn, though.”

“I was just wondering how dedicated I am to my job, to handling the small load of petty cases that land on my desk each month.”

“And?”

“Oh, I’d say…not very.”

“That can’t be true. Jason says you do a wonderful job.”

“I’m a good lawyer.” It was a statement of fact, with no fringe of lace to pretty it up. Abruptly, he reached across the table and took her hand.

Carlie tried to pull away, but he held her firm. “I’m sorry if I inadvertently insulted you. I only meant that you’re very sure of yourself and you appear to be able to handle any situation. Including irascible fathers.”

It was more difficult than she’d expected, because Tyler wasn’t what she’d expected. At least, not completely. There were too many facets to his personality, and now he seemed genuinely thoughtful, interested in the children and concerned that he might have hurt her feelings. And he’d been very patient while she’d talked to Mr. Briant.

His hand was warm and strong, feeling exactly as she remembered. But her reaction wasn’t dulled by familiarity.

“I’m not invincible, Mr. Ramsey. I simply don’t believe in allowing myself to be trod upon.”

“You’ve done that before, you know. Called me mister when you’re agitated. I think we know each other well enough to dispense with mister and Ms., don’t you?”

She managed to slip her hand free, but only because Tyler allowed it. She needed to regather her defenses; Tyler was a devastating man when he was being the seducer. But as a caring, considerate man, he was downright potent. “I don’t really know you at all, but I think I know your type, and I’m not all that impressed by it. That’s one of the reasons I hesitated to involve you in this program. But I’ll be honest with you…Tyler. There was no one else to take Jason’s place, and—”

Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.

Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес».

Прочитайте эту книгу целиком, купив полную легальную версию на ЛитРес.

Безопасно оплатить книгу можно банковской картой Visa, MasterCard, Maestro, со счета мобильного телефона, с платежного терминала, в салоне МТС или Связной, через PayPal, WebMoney, Яндекс.Деньги, QIWI Кошелек, бонусными картами или другим удобным Вам способом.