She’s vowed never to say “I do”...

Can he change her mind?

In this Holiday with a Billionaire story, Zoe Perkins has sworn off men after a painful divorce. Until a car crash in Patras brings Andreas Gavras and his adorable toddler hurtling into her life! Single dad Andreas knows exactly what he wants—Zoe as his bride. Can Zoe trust this gorgeous Greek with her bruised heart and agree to walk down the aisle?

REBECCA WINTERS lives in Salt Lake City, Utah. With canyons and high alpine meadows full of wildflowers, she never runs out of places to explore. They, plus her favourite vacation spots in Europe, often end up as backgrounds for her romance novels—because writing is her passion, along with her family and her church. Rebecca loves to hear from readers. If you wish to email her, please visit her website at cleanromances.net.

Also by Rebecca Winters

The Magnate’s Holiday Proposal

The Billionaire’s Club miniseries

Return of Her Italian Duke

Bound to Her Greek Billionaire

Whisked Away by Her Sicilian Boss

Holiday with a Billionaire miniseries

Captivated by the Brooding Billionaire

Falling for the Venetian Billionaire

Wedding the Greek Billionaire

Discover more at millsandboon.co.uk.

Wedding the Greek Billionaire

Rebecca Winters

www.millsandboon.co.uk

ISBN: 978-1-474-07820-7

WEDDING THE GREEK BILLIONAIRE

© 2018 Rebecca Winters

Published in Great Britain 2018

by Mills & Boon, an imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers 1 London Bridge Street, London, SE1 9GF

All rights reserved including the right of reproduction in whole or in part in any form. This edition is published by arrangement with Harlequin Books S.A.

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, locations and incidents are purely fictional and bear no relationship to any real life individuals, living or dead, or to any actual places, business establishments, locations, events or incidents. Any resemblance is entirely coincidental.

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www.millsandboon.co.uk

I’ve been so thrilled with my editor,

I want to dedicate this book to her. Thank you for

believing in me, working with me, helping me to be

better. Every author needs the right editor to make

her work stronger. Some authors are lucky enough to

have an editor who also has a great personality, who’s

pleasant, understanding, fun, kind and supportive, as

well as being an expert in bringing out the best in her

writing. I have an editor like that. Thank you, Julia.

Contents

Cover

Back Cover Text

About the Author

Booklist

Title Page

Copyright

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

EPILOGUE

Extract

About the Publisher

CHAPTER ONE

THE END OF May had brought glorious seventy-degree weather to Greece, but the morning traffic in Patras was as bad as in Athens. Zoe Perkins, who’d been in Greece since January, doing research on the renowned British poet Lord Byron, was on her way to the dock in a taxi. The ferry to Ithaca would be leaving soon and she couldn’t be late.

“Can’t you go any faster?” she called to the driver again. She’d phoned for a taxi from her one bedroom apartment in downtown Patras, thinking she had plenty of time.

“I am hurrying,” he replied in English over his shoulder.

She looked out the window, frustrated it was taking so long. Suddenly she saw a truck turn into their path from the intersection. “Stop! He’s going to hit—”

They collided before she could say us. The impact shot her forward, but the seat belt kept her from going flying. While she tried to get her heart to calm down, she noticed the driver slumped over the steering wheel. Blood dribbled down the side of his face.

“Oh, no! Are you all right?” she cried out, horrified. He didn’t make a sound. It was her fault for urging him to drive faster. The police hadn’t arrived yet and a crowd had surrounded them. The accident had caused a terrible traffic jam.

Galvanized into action, Zoe undid the seat belt, wanting to get out of the car to help the driver. But as she opened the rear door, she was blocked by a man with a rock-hard physique saying something to her in Greek.

“Please let me out.”

“I’m sorry, kyria, but you might need medical attention. Help is coming.” The man’s deep cultured voice spoken in accented English was disturbingly attractive.

“Thank you, but I’m fine. Honestly! The driver is the one who’s hurt. I tried talking to him, but he isn’t saying anything!”

When he lowered his head, she found herself staring at the most striking, olive-skinned Greek male she’d ever seen in her life. Beneath raven-black hair and brows, his eyes, dark as midnight, studied her features as if to verify she’d spoken the truth.

The thirty-plus-looking male was dressed in an elegant tan silk suit and tie. She assumed he had to be on his way to an important meeting.

“Why don’t we let the paramedics decide.” He didn’t move, and spoke in a tone of authority he probably wasn’t even aware of.

“The poor man.”

“He’s already sitting up, kyria, and has likely broken his nose, nothing else.”

“I—I shouldn’t have told him to drive so fast.” Shock was setting in, causing her to chatter. “I was afraid I’d miss the f-ferry for Ithaca.”

“Was someone going to meet you when you arrived?”

“No, it’s just I was on a tight schedule and there won’t be another one until tomorrow. But it doesn’t matter now because the driver is hurt. He needs help.”

“He’ll be fine. Just try to relax.”

At that moment she heard a siren and the paramedics arrived. They appeared to recognize the stranger immediately. He spoke to them briefly, then moved aside so one of them could talk to her in English. The medic checked her vital signs while the taxi driver received help and was transported to the ambulance.

Determining that she seemed to be all right, the medic helped her out of the taxi. All that time, the stranger stayed beside her. Zoe hadn’t realized he was so tall, at least six feet two inches of male virility. Maybe the accident had affected her sight, because to her eyes he looked like a Greek god come to life. Her legs felt like mush.

The medic took her information and said he would summon another taxi for her. Before she could answer him, the stranger said, “I’ll drive her to her destination.”

“Efkaristo, Kyrie Gavras.”

Gavras? She’d passed the entrance of a hotel downtown called Gavras House, Patras, many times. Was he that Gavras? Zoe had also seen the name in the news and everywhere she’d been in western Greece during her time here.

“You and I haven’t been officially introduced, Kyria Perkins.” The mention of her name meant he’d heard the information she’d given to the medic. “My name is Andreas Gavras. If you’ll allow me, I’ll take you where you need to go. My limo is waiting.”

“Thank you, but you don’t owe me anything.”

“My driver was right behind the truck that collided with your taxi. I’m the one who called for assistance and would like to be of help. Wouldn’t you do the same for me if our positions were reversed? Where can I take you?”

Think, Zoe. “Maybe back to my apartment. It’s only a few blocks away.”

He reached inside for her purse and handed it to her.

“Thank you.” She’d forgotten she’d left it on the seat.

“The limo is parked just over there.” He cupped her elbow to steady her as they walked through the stalled cars and he helped her into the back of the elegant black limo. “Do you feel ill?”

“Not sick, just shaken.”

“Of course. What you need is a drink.” He said something in Greek to his driver through a speaker, and the limo began to move. The next thing she knew they’d rounded a corner and pulled up in front of a sidewalk café.

“Stay right here, kyria. I’ll be back.”

In a lithe male movement, he got out of the limo and went inside. Before long he came back out with two drinks in paper cups. “This is lemonade.”

Her hand trembled as she took the cup from him. “Thank you so much,” she said before drinking thirstily. When she’d drained all of it, he took the cup from her and put it in a receptacle. He’d finished his drink, as well.

“I’ve never tasted anything so good.”

“I’m glad it appealed. Feel a little better now?” he asked solicitously.

“Much.” He was the proverbial white knight, but dressed in a stunning modern silk suit, who’d come out of nowhere to save her.

“Forgive me for a minute while I call my office, then we’ll find a pleasant place to have lunch.”

“You’ve been very kind, but you look like you’re on your way to an important meeting. Please don’t let me keep you.”

He slanted her a heart-stopping glance. “I’m glad you’re the reason I can’t make the board meeting I usually sleep through.” She didn’t believe that for a second. “Besides, I have to eat since I didn’t stop for breakfast this morning. Did you?”

“Actually I didn’t. I thought I’d eat on the ferry.”

“Well, I know a place where the food will be much better. Just give me a minute.”

By the time he’d gotten off the phone, she felt her more normal self. Once again the limo joined the mainstream of traffic and drove them out of the city to the coast ten miles away.

“I’m in the mood for fish. How about you?”

“That sounds wonderful.” But she didn’t feel hungry.

“When we get there, shall I order for you?”

“Please. I haven’t mastered your menus yet.”

He spoke to his driver again and they pulled up to one of those seaside places you read about in a brochure for this century’s jet set, exclusive and expensive. The restaurant was full, but a table had been reserved for them. He must have called ahead when he’d bought the lemonade.

Zoe knew she wasn’t dreaming, but it felt like she was in one. He helped her to her seat and sat across from her at the cloth-covered table with flowers. After the waiter took their order, his black eyes studied her features.

“Why were you going to Ithaca?”

“Since January, I’ve been doing research in Greece on the life of George Gordon Noel Byron, the Sixth Baron Byron, known as Lord Byron. I’ve visited many places and been to many sites, but there are still regions I have yet to see and learn about.”

To her surprise, his expression grew more animated. “Why him particularly?”

“He spent some time in and around Ithaca. I want to go there and talk to some of the local historians who will give me their insights about him.”

“What kind of work do you do?”

“I’m studying for my doctorate at UCLA, and I teach classes on the romance writers of the early nineteenth century. Last Christmas a famous female movie director in Hollywood named Magda Collier started making her most important film to date and chose Lord Byron for the subject. She needed new eyes for fresh research to make the script authentic.”

“And you were picked?”

“Two other women from Stanford and San Jose State University, Ginger and Abby, plus myself, were chosen to gather material. Magda’s idea was to show him as a genius whose spiritual side had so much to give the world and emphasize the greatness in him. I applauded her dream and was thrilled to be part of her team.”

“That’s quite an honor.”

“In a way, it is. Before Christmas we met in Los Angeles for a week with the screenwriters and learned from her what she wanted. I’ve been sending information to her for months, as have my friends. But the time is coming when I’ll have to return to the US, so I’m trying to make the most of it.”

“It sounds like you were an expert on him to begin with.”

“I’ve studied his works for years and have learned incredible things about his life while he spent time here in Greece.”

“How long have you been in Patras?”

“About six weeks.”

Their food came and it looked delicious, whetting her appetite. She ended up feasting on a plate of all sorts of fish and rice in a divine cream sauce.

“This is delicious, but I feel guilty that the poor taxi driver is probably at the hospital in pain. If he has a family, they must be so upset this happened.”

“Your compassion is commendable.”

“I’m sure you’d feel the same way. Do you think it was his fault?”

“I’m not sure, but I can find out what hospital he was taken to. Maybe then we might learn details.”

“Would you do that? If I could, I’d like to tell him how sorry I am for what happened. I’ve relied on taxis all through Greece. The drivers have always been wonderful and I’ve been so lucky. It astounds me how well they speak English. If I had to drive a Greek person around, I wouldn’t be able to communicate. It’s shameful that I only know a few words after all these months.”

“Not everyone is as appreciative as you. I’m impressed, kyria, and I’ll see what I can do on our way back to Patras.”

“Thank you.”

“Would you care for dessert?”

“I couldn’t manage one, but please order for yourself if you want to.”

“I’d rather drive you back to Patras while we find out about your taxi driver so you can relax.”

“I’m sorry.”

“You have nothing to apologize for. An accident that was out of your hands would unnerve anyone.”

He summoned the waiter and they left the restaurant for the limo. They sat across from each other as they’d done before. On the way into town he got on his cell phone and made a series of calls. Zoe knew that if anyone could pull strings to find out private information, he would be the one.

“I have good news,” he said after hanging up on his last call. “The driver received a cut on his eyebrow that was stitched up. He’s already been released from the hospital.”

“That’s a great relief to me. I’m glad it wasn’t his nose.”

Her knight chuckled. “The driver of the truck wasn’t injured. He was given the citation for not being careful.”

“I can’t thank you enough for finding out that information for me. I’ll sleep much better tonight.”

By this time the limo had pulled up in front of her apartment without needing directions. When the stranger had heard her give the police her information, he’d clearly remembered the address.

“What are your plans now?” he asked.

“Work. I’ll make use of today’s loss of time by transcribing some tapes I’ve made during interviews here. Tomorrow I’ll leave much earlier for the ferry and go to Ithaca.”

“You have to eat dinner. Will you dine with me this evening?”

She tried not to look at him or she’d get lost in those penetrating black eyes. “You’ve done more than enough for me when you’ve already missed your board meeting. I’m very grateful to you for coming to my rescue, but I refuse to take up any more of your time.”

Zoe started to reach for her purse when he said, “Would you mind if I came by in the morning and drove you to the ferry?”

Her eyes flew to his in surprise. “Why would you do that?”

“Because I prevented you from leaving the taxi at the scene of the accident this morning. I made you too late to reach the port in time. It’s the least I can do.”

She shook her head. “I’m already in your debt for the fabulous lunch.”

“I promise I’ll get you there on time.”

The man couldn’t be dissuaded, and he’d been wonderful to her. You know you want to see him again, Zoe. After her divorce, she’d been leery about getting close to a man again, especially one so breathtaking.

“What about your work?”

“It’s always there waiting. I’ll meet you here in front at seven thirty in the morning. How does that sound?”

The accident must have done something to her psyche because a part of her wanted to say yes to this gorgeous man who was little more than a stranger to her. But another part of her feared it wouldn’t be wise. She clutched her purse. Once before in her life she’d made the mistake of being charmed by an attractive man with disastrous results.

“That’s a very generous offer. Thank you for everything, but I really don’t want to put you out.”

“You won’t. If you aren’t here when I come by in the morning, then I’ll accept that’s your answer and you’ll never see me again.”

He opened the door for her so she could get out of the car. Without looking back, she hurried toward her flat located around the side of the building hidden behind a big tree. Much as she wanted to tell him she’d love a ride with him, she didn’t dare.

Andreas watched the dark blond American beauty with the stunning figure run from him before he told the driver to head for the office. He couldn’t remember anything like this happening to him before.

When Andreas had looked inside the damaged taxi earlier, his gaze had fused with a pair of azure-blue eyes so alive and brilliant, he’d been mesmerized.

He’d assumed she was in her early twenties. It totally surprised him when he learned she was a professor of the early nineteenth-century romance writers at UCLA in California, which meant she was older than he’d supposed.

He’d been instantly attracted to her in a way he couldn’t explain. The woman’s concern over the taxi driver had touched him. As for her keen intellect and interest in Lord Byron, he was intrigued. She didn’t know it yet, but the two of them had a lot to talk about. He found himself planning a way to spend more time with her.

After the emotional turmoil he’d been in for so long he didn’t want to think about it, he was utterly shocked that he wanted to pursue this woman. But instinct told him that if she’d been put off by him, she wouldn’t have walked with him to the limo after the accident, or have gone to lunch with him. Still, something else had held her back from accepting a ride from him to the ferry tomorrow.

He thought about the situation until he went to bed. If he was wrong and she didn’t feel any sort of attraction to him, there was only one way to find out.

When morning came, he dressed in sport clothes and parked his car in front of her apartment at seven fifteen. For all he knew, she could have already left or changed her mind and done something else. If there was no sign of her, he’d told her he would let it go. But he knew he wouldn’t like it.

At twenty-five after, a taxi pulled up behind him, letting him know she had no intention of going with him. Instead of leaving before she came out, Andreas wanted her to know he’d kept his word. He got out of his car and lounged against the passenger door to wait.

A few minutes later she walked out dressed in white cargo pants and a blue-and-white-print blouse with three-quarter sleeves. The sun streaks in her neck-length hair shone in the morning light. He couldn’t look anywhere else before straightening. It diverted her attention.

The surprise in her blue eyes above those exquisite high cheekbones was 100 percent genuine. “You!” She hadn’t thought he’d come.

“Good morning, kyria. I told you I would be here. I meant what I said. I’d like to take you to the ferry to make up for yesterday, but the decision is yours.”

She smoothed a strand of hair behind her ear. “The thing is, my taxi is already here.”

That comment told him all he needed to know. “I’ll take care of it.”

He walked around to talk to the driver. “Thanks for coming,” he said in Greek and paid him triple what she would have had to pay him to go to the dock.

The driver was all smiles and pulled out into traffic.

Andreas headed for his car and opened the door for her. She came closer. “Now I feel terrible. My debts to you are adding up.”

It hit him that as long as she wanted to be with him, nothing else mattered. And she did, otherwise she would have said no thank you and climbed in that taxi.

“Let’s not talk about debts and enjoy the drive.” He helped her in the car and took off. “I’m aware that you know nothing about me, but I assure you I’m not in the habit of picking up women who’ve been in an accident or otherwise.”

That brought a smile to her lips. “I’m not in the habit of being picked up by a man on his way to a board meeting.”

“Touché. Now that we have that out of the way, I’d like you to know the truth about me. Two days ago I filed for divorce and have a son, Ari, who’s fifteen months old. He’s my life.” Even if he isn’t my birth son. “But he’s with his mother right now in Athens. They’re living with her parents for the time being.”

She turned to look at him. “I’m so sorry. I’ve been through a divorce and know how painful it is, but there were no children involved. The emptiness has to be unbearable.”

He darted her a glance. She’d already been married...

“Life has a way of throwing us curves we never expected, like your accident yesterday. Right now I’m trying to make sense of everything. Believe it or not, doing something for you is helping.”

She stirred in the seat. “What you’ve told me explains why you didn’t care if you missed your board meeting.”

“You’re right about that. I’m trying to keep it together, but I couldn’t go to work today, or stay at the villa. Thank you for helping me keep my sanity, kyria. You’re just the company I need.”

“I’ve been where you’ve been,” she said compassionately. “If you’d like a job, why don’t you come to Ithaca with me for the day? I could use an interpreter of your caliber.”

“What caliber is that?”

“I asked my landlord about you. He said you’re a very important man.”

“Don’t believe him.”

She chuckled softly. “I knew it when the police officer recognized you and immediately acceded to your wishes.”

The fact that she’d asked him to go to Ithaca with her had lifted his mood. They reached the dock and got in line to board the ferry. The four-hour trip across and back meant they wouldn’t be home until eight or later.

Once they could leave the car, they went to the dining room to eat, then walked out on deck. “It’s hard to believe this view is real,” she murmured. “The green of the Ionian islands bathed by crystal blue waters is out of this world.”

He’d never been around anyone as appreciative of everything as she was. As he’d told her earlier, she was easy to be with. “I couldn’t agree more. Tell me why Ithaca is so important.”

“When Lord Byron left Genoa in July of 1823, he traveled on a ship called the Hercules with Pietro Gamba and William Fletcher among others. They arrived at Cephalonia in August and made an expedition to Ithaca. He was filled with inspiration and did a lot of writing during that period. I want to visit the two museums in Vathy and see what memorabilia is there.”

Being with Zoe made the time pass quickly. Soon they were able to drive onto the island and tour some of the archaeological sites before stopping at the museums.

“Tell me what those words say, Andreas.” It was the first time she’d used his name. He enjoyed translating some of the lines from the marble commemorative stele of Byron for her.

“If this island belonged to me, I would bury all my books here and never go away,” he told her.

“That’s an interesting thing to say. He really was taken with the history of this place.” She recorded Andreas’s words in the notebook she carried in her purse. They worked well together and he regretted it when they had to leave to drive back to the ferry.

Again they ate aboard ship and discussed Ulysses, who was said to have been born on Ithaca or Cephalonia. She was so knowledgeable about literature in general, it was fascinating to be with her.

When they got back to the apartment, he turned to her and told her his plans. “Tomorrow I’m leaving for Athens to be with my son. Temporary visitation has been worked out with the judge. I’m with him for two days, usually over the weekend. Then his mother has him for five and we go back and forth. It’s unequal, but works for now because of my business schedule.”

“You can’t bring him here?”

“I could, but it’s a lot of flying. Do you mind if I call you after I’m back?”

“Not at all, but just so you know, I’m leaving tomorrow to join my friends on holiday in Switzerland.”

The news stunned him. He’d just met her and already she was going away? “How long will you be gone?”

“I’m not sure.” She reached for the door handle. “But I can’t thank you enough for taking me to Ithaca today. It was a real treat, and I know you can’t wait until tomorrow when you see your son. Have a safe trip, Andreas.”

“Wait—let’s exchange phone numbers so we can stay in touch.”

“All right.”

By then she’d already gotten out of the car. It was still light out. “Don’t get in any accidents on your way home,” she teased before disappearing around the big tree.

Andreas sat there for a few minutes, upset that he might not see her again. Before he pulled away, he phoned her.

She sounded breathless when she answered. “Andreas?”

“Hi. Just wanted to make sure I could reach you.”

“You must have driven your mother crazy.”

“Probably,” he quipped. “Enjoy your trip.”

“You, too.”

He hung up and headed for the villa. Though he was counting the hours until he could be with Ari, there was someone else he’d be thinking about this weekend. Since he’d told her he was divorced with a son, she’d relaxed around him, like she might around a friend.

But he would never be able to think of her in the friend sense. She’d grown on him like mad today and belonged in an entirely different category. The thought of not seeing her again disturbed him a great deal.

CHAPTER TWO

WHEN ZOE’S PLANS with the girls didn’t turn out, she flew back to Patras four days later and returned to her apartment in time to go to bed. Their long-awaited vacation in Switzerland had gone up in smoke.

Abby had fallen for a Burgundian vintner and had gone to France with him. Ginger had wanted to stay in Venice. Zoe had the idea she’d met a man because something was definitely keeping her there.

As for Zoe, she was excited to return to Greece. All the way back on the plane she debated whether to phone Andreas when she got there and let him know her plans had changed. But by the time she got ready for bed, she’d talked herself out of calling him.

Zoe had been a fool to ask him to go to Ithaca with her and should forget him. What she needed to do was finish her Greek research and go home to California.

Once she got in bed and turned out the light, her phone rang. Was it Abby or Ginger? She shot up in bed and reached for her cell on the bedside table.

It was Andreas.

“Hello?” Her voice had a pathetic tremor.

“Zoe—I’m back from Athens and couldn’t go to bed until I’d spoken with you. Are you enjoying your trip with your friends? Where are you?”

Hearing his deep familiar voice, she pressed a hand to her heart. “We had a lovely time, but circumstances changed and I’m actually back in Patras.”

“You’re here?” She could hear the excitement in his voice. It matched hers.

“Yes. How’s your son?”

“I loved being with him, but tell me, what are your plans now?”

“Tomorrow I’m going to Ioannina.”

“In that case I have an idea. I’ll come by in the morning and drive us both there. Then we can talk.”

“I can’t let you do that. You have a company to run.”

“Before you say no, hear me out. I’ll take my laptop and work while you do your thing. There are several charming places to stay the night. I can call ahead for reservations.”

“Andreas—stop. It isn’t fair to you.”

“Why not? I thought you understood you’re helping me. I’m not ready to be imprisoned in my office yet. Do you know what I mean?”

“I’m afraid I do,” she answered quietly. “Of course I’d love to drive with you, but if you change your mind and something unexpected comes up, please don’t worry about me.”

“Thank you for saying yes. Now I can sleep. See you tomorrow morning at eight thirty. Good night, kyria.”

Zoe lay back against the pillow, excited for morning to come. At seven she awakened and hurried to wash her hair and get ready in a new skirt and top she’d bought recently.

When she walked outside, Andreas was there dressed in sport clothes, looking like her idea of a Greek god. His black eyes traveled over her.

“It’s good to see you again,” he told her.

“I’m happy to see you, too. I wasn’t sure I’d be back again and will have to tell you what happened. But first I want to hear about Ari.”

He helped her in his car and they left the city, traveling northwest. Zoe found herself enchanted by the city of Ioannina, spread out around Lake Pamvotida. The wealthy, aristocratic city, two hours northwest of Patras, included the cultures of Christianity, Islam and Judaism. The variety of its shops and food depicted the traditions.

After spending part of the day in the library where she did research, Andreas took her to a traditional coffeehouse where they were served sugar pie and an alcohol-free liqueur. He explained it was a mixture of organic vinegar, nectar, fruit syrups and herbs, drunk with crushed ice.

“It tastes like it must have alcohol in it. I love this drink. I wonder if Lord Byron drank it, but so far I haven’t come across it in my research.”

Andreas chuckled. “You have no idea how much fun you are to be with. Why is Ioannina so important to your research?”

“Byron wrote part of Childe Harold’s Pilgrimage here.”

“I’ve read some of it. His wish for man to be free touches me most.”

She took a deep breath. “He said the most profound things. When I read his writings, I feel like I’m in touch with the divine. This is the essence of what Magda hopes will be conveyed by her film.”

“How can she fail with someone like you supplying the inspiration?”

The tone in his voice found its way into her heart. “You’re nice to listen to me. What can I do for you?”

“Let’s talk a walk along the lake back to our hotel. Later we’ll get dinner.”

He’d found them a small, adorable hideaway at the water’s edge she’d loved on sight. Zoe had never experienced a day like this before. Since meeting him in such an unorthodox way, she was discovering Greece all over again through the eyes of a native son.

Zoe couldn’t help but be sorry for the breakup of his marriage. He hadn’t offered an explanation and she didn’t want one. All she knew was that he was an exceptional man and she felt lucky to know him. But even as she thought it, the memory of her bad marriage crept into her mind. She’d fallen for Nate too fast, too. She shook off the thought.

“Tell me about Ari. Was he thrilled to see you?”

A sweet smile broke out on his handsome features when he thought of his son. “He loves to play so hard, he wore me out.”

“I’m sure it’s painful to leave him.”

“You can’t imagine.”

“But you only have to wait two more days until you see him again. We’ve already gotten you through today.” He chuckled. “Why don’t we buy some souvlaki at a kiosk along here and eat it on the terrace of the hotel. I don’t want to go inside until we have to. The temperature here is heavenly.”

His gaze played over her. “You’re reading my mind.”

After he bought their food, they reached the hotel and sat down at a table to watch the sun go down. Another couple had come out on the patio involved in each other. The lovers couldn’t have found a more romantic place.

Glancing at them, an ache started up in Zoe’s heart. What would it be like to come here with the man you loved? One who loved you? A man like Andreas...

The second the thought came into her mind, she realized she’d made a mistake to let him drive her here. Of course there was no question of their getting involved romantically. They were simply acquaintances who’d met under unusual circumstances, but she’d be crazy to spend any more time with him.

He’d barely separated from his wife and clearly longed for his son. It was already June. She’d be going back to California soon. The old adage about ships passing in the night couldn’t have been more apropos.

All these months she’d been in Greece doing her job, not needing anyone, least of all a man. The taxi accident had brought them together, but for this to go on was ridiculous.

Already he was coloring her world in ways she didn’t want. She needed to stop this foolishness before she got too used to his being with her. Thank goodness he couldn’t afford to stay away from his work any longer.

“Andreas? That tasted good, but now I need to go in and write up some notes before I get too tired. I hope you don’t mind if I turn in.”

She heard him take a deep breath. “I’ll walk you to your room.”

“That won’t be necessary.”

“I brought you here and want you to be safe.” Zoe was surprised by the firm tone of his voice. But he was a caring, thoughtful man and would be like this in any situation.

They headed to her room in the east wing of the hotel. She knew his was in the other wing. He waited while she opened the door.

Zoe went inside and peeked around at him. “Maybe we can get breakfast en route back to Patras.”

One black brow lifted. “You’re through with your research here?”

“I’m sure.”

“What’s your next destination?”

“I don’t know yet. Ever since I came to Greece, I’ve constantly sent out emails to various places for information. The answers come back if there’s something I need to research. I’ll know tomorrow when I receive more responses. Good night, Andreas.”

“Good night,” he whispered.

As he turned away, she shut the door. Her explanation had been the right thing to say. If she’d told him what her destination would be tomorrow, she knew in her heart he’d tell her he’d drive her there.

While he was dealing with this huge change in his life—something Zoe knew all about after divorcing her husband for his infidelity—she realized this time with Andreas was a distraction that was helping him to cope with what he was going through. But she couldn’t afford to keep it up. It was far too risky to her own peace of mind.

They reached Patras at 11:30 a.m., when he pulled the car up in front of her apartment. He’d taken Zoe to see the monastery in Varlaam on the way back. Afterward they’d enjoyed breakfast at the quaint Taverna Gardenia in one of the narrow passageways.

“What a treat to have gone there! I suppose you’ve climbed those one hundred and ninety-five steps to the top before?” she teased.

“Guilty.”

“It would take someone a lot more courageous than me to do it.”

He smiled at the inexhaustible, breathtaking woman standing on the sidewalk while he retrieved her small suitcase from the car. Zoe didn’t fool him. She’d been in Greece on her own since January, digging up material in out-of-the-way places, talking to strangers, taking risks. She embraced adventure.

“I’ll call you later.”

Her eyes flashed blue fire. “From work, I hope. I’ve kept you from it too long.”

“It’s been the best medicine I could have asked for.”

“I’m glad. And just think? After today you only have to wait one more day before you sweep your little boy into your arms again.”

She understood him like no one else. “Speaking of Ari, I never did show you a picture of him.” He pulled out his phone and scrolled to his photo gallery. “I bought him a little pair of sunglasses.”

Zoe took the phone from him and broke into an infectious smile after studying it. “He’s absolutely adorable. I don’t know how you stand the separation.” She handed it back to him.

He put his cell in his shirt pocket. “We do what we have to do.”

“Isn’t that the truth. I won’t tell you to have a wonderful day, but hope it will be all right if I wish you a productive one? Then my guilt won’t be so bad.”

Andreas burst into laughter. He never knew what she was going to say next. But she was right. He’d played hooky from work for long enough. “I’ve enjoyed our time together.”

“So have I,” she came right back. “Now I need to get going.” She picked up her case and started toward her flat. Before she rounded the tree, she waved at him.

He got back in his car and headed for work. His personal assistant probably couldn’t wait to show him the mountain of decisions to make and contracts to look over, but he didn’t care. Being with Zoe Perkins had given him a new lease on life.

The next time he lifted his head was around five thirty when he reached for his phone to call Zoe. He was getting hungry and wanted to take her to dinner. To his satisfaction she answered on the second ring.

“Andreas—” She sounded vibrant. “How did you survive your first day back?”

“More to the point, what about you? Where are you? How soon can I pick you up? I’m starving.”

“So am I, but I’m actually on my way to dinner with a group of professors here in Prevesa.”

The news came as a blow. His black brows knit together. “That’s three hours away by car. How come you didn’t say anything this morning?”

“I didn’t know until I looked at my emails.”

Andreas needed to calm down. “How did you get there?”

“I rented a car because I knew I’d need to drive around a lot once I got here. I’m really lucky because these people have fresh information for me about Lord Byron. This is like finding gold at the end of the rainbow. I’ll probably be here three or four days.”

The wind went right out of his sails. “That means I won’t be able to see you until I get back again from Athens.”

“I should be in Patras by then—or shortly after. Thanks for calling me. Have fun with Ari.”

That was a given, but as for anything else, he felt like his lifeline had been cut during his space walk and he was cast into the void. “I hope this trip brings big results for you. Talk to you soon.”

He hung up and left the office for his grandparents’ villa. They’d been devastated by the news about his filing for a separation, but understood how Lia’s painful betrayal had brought about the end of their marriage.

Not only that, it had upset his grandfather that he hadn’t been at the board meeting the day of the taxi accident. Andreas needed to reassure them on all counts that everything was all right. But the truth was, he couldn’t bear to go home until he was ready to collapse in bed.

When the time came to fly to Athens, he was more than ready to enjoy his son. Ari was the joy of his life and they had a marvelous two days and nights together. The only way he could stand to leave him this time was hoping that Zoe would be there when he got back to Patras.

After his jet landed and he headed for his villa, he phoned Zoe. It would be the first time they’d spoken since he’d talked to her the day she’d gone to Prevesa. Andreas wasn’t known for his patience, but in her case he didn’t want to crowd her while she was doing her work.

This time she didn’t answer until the fourth ring. “Good morning, Kyrie Gavras.” She’d never called him that before. “Are you back in Patras? How was your visit with Ari?”

“I just flew in and my time with my son was wonderful as usual. I want to know about you.”

“As I told you before, I found a treasure trove here.”

He had trouble swallowing. “So you’re still in Prevesa?”

“Not exactly. One of the literature professors from Turkey invited me to return to Anatalya with him. I’ll be here for two weeks, maybe less, then I’ll be back in Patras. He’s an expert on Lord Byron and has incredible information with a fresh perspective. We’ll be traveling to Bodrum and Ephesus, where there are other scholars he wants me to meet. He’s very excited about the film Magda is making.”

Andreas was listening, but he also imagined the professor was particularly excited about being around anyone as beautiful and vivacious as Zoe.

His eyes closed tightly. “I’m glad you’re finding new information.”

“It’s fantastic.” She sounded happy.

“The best of luck to you, Zoe.”

“Thank you so much. I’ll call you when I know my flight from Anatalya.”

“Why don’t I pick you up at the airport?”

“That would be lovely, but only if it’s convenient for you.”

“I’ll make it convenient.”

She laughed. He’d missed that sound, he’d missed her more than he could believe. “Bye for now.”

Zoe’s heart almost palpitated out of her chest when she saw Andreas with his black hair and burning black eyes standing at the luggage pickup waiting for her. He’d dressed in one of his elegant silk suits, this time a gray one with a dazzling white shirt and tie. The man was bigger than life and so sinfully handsome, it was shocking to her.

She’d hoped to get some perspective while she’d been away from him, but instead the opposite had happened. Her bad experience with Nate hadn’t seemed to have taught her anything. The ache in her heart had grown more serious while she’d been away from Andreas. Seeing him again had turned it into real pain.

His gaze played over her in that way only he could do, causing her insides to melt on the spot. “The world traveler is back home. How does it feel?”

Like I’m going to die from happiness.

“I’m glad to be back, but it’s not going to be for long.” Let him know now.

The gleam in his eyes vanished. “What’s next on your agenda?”

“Since I uncovered new information while I was in Turkey, I have to go back to Messolonghi tomorrow for a week.”

“Do you have time to eat lunch with me before you’re off again?”

“I’d love it.” She reached for her suitcase, but he took it from her.

“My car is out in the short-term parking. Let’s go.” They walked out together. After he helped her in the car and got behind the wheel, he said, “Do you want to go to your apartment first?”

“Oh, no. I don’t want to put you out. We can eat on the way in. You pick a place.”

“What are you in the mood for?”

“Anything. You can’t get a bad meal in Greece.”

He started the car and drove away. “As opposed to Turkey?”

“The food there was delicious, but you know what I mean. I’ve been here since January and have loved it all.”

“That’s nice to hear.” He drove them to a restaurant where the specialty was moussaka with a béchamel sauce he liked. They could eat outside on the patio and enjoy some house wine.

The waiter took their order. When he walked away, she smiled at Andreas. “How is Ari? Do you have any more pictures to show me?”

“As a matter of fact, I do.” He pulled out his phone and they laughed over the photos for a few minutes until their meal came. They were both hungry. Then he changed the subject.

“Will you let me drive you to Messolonghi? We could leave later today and enjoy an evening together there.”

“You’re so generous to me, but this afternoon I have an appointment at the University of Patras with a professor who’s finally back from his vacation. He has some vital information for me.”

“How were you planning to get there?”

“Call for a taxi.”

His dark eyes narrowed on her face. “Do you dare?”

The question made her chuckle. “If you’re offering to drive me, I won’t say no. But I’ll be there for at least two hours.”

“Then I’ll do some errands and come back for you. If you want to go back to the apartment, I’ll drive you and then we’ll leave for Messolonghi.”

Zoe realized she couldn’t say no to him. He was determined to spend time with her, and heaven help her, she was so thrilled to be with him she could hardly stand it.

They ate dessert before he took her to the university. She waved him off before hurrying inside. Zoe didn’t think the dean of the literature department had summoned her because his information was new, but she was curious.

What really stunned her was that he’d been talking to others in the humanities department and was offering her a temporary post to teach there in their theater department for the fall semester. Byron had written a series of plays she could teach in a curriculum she’d developed.

The earlier mention of her association with Magda Collier had no doubt excited them to the point they’d made this offer. But as tempting and alluring as it was because it would keep her in Andreas’s sphere, she turned it down. No way did she dare accept.

When she’d met Nate, she’d fallen for him too fast and had rushed into a serious relationship with him with disastrous results. If she stayed in Greece and was given this position at the university, it would be throwing her into temptation’s way with Andreas. She had to keep reminding herself that she’d be leaving Greece soon and had no intention of coming back.

After telling the dean she was honored and flattered to have been considered, but couldn’t accept the offer, she left his office and waited outside in front of the building enjoying the view until Andreas came for her.

They drove into town. Once he’d dropped her off at the apartment long enough to pack fresh clothes, she got back in his car and they left for Messolonghi.

She’d spent time there earlier in the year. It was the place where the Greek rebels fought in the Greek War of Independence against the Ottoman Empire. It was there that Byron came to join Greece in its fight for freedom.

“Refresh my memory about that last day,” Andreas asked her.

“From what I know, Byron rode his horse by the waters of the lagoon, then to the Chapel of the Virgin by the Palm Tree, and then for many more miles onto Aetolicon. On that fateful day he was caught in the downpour of a storm and returned completely soaked to the home in Messolonghi where he was staying. That’s when the sweating and fever started. He became seriously ill and died at the age of thirty-six.”

He shot her glance. “What more do you expect to learn about that day by going there?”

“I’m curious to compare some facts with the Turkish accounts I’ve just gathered.”

Andreas shook his head. “Does that mind of yours ever turn off?”

She flashed him a radiant smile. “I hope not.”

After they reached Messolonghi, Zoe had booked a local hotel. After she’d checked in, Andreas walked her through the Garden of Heroes where Lord Byron was featured. According to his will, his heart was buried there beneath the statue and his body shipped back to England.

As she’d walked with Andreas, she knew she’d come close to losing her own heart. But it had happened so quickly! How could she be feeling this way after her last painful experience? Zoe was at the point where she didn’t trust her own judgment and was feeling so vulnerable, she was frightened.

Because you know that what you feel for Andreas is more than what you’ve ever felt for anyone before.

They had a meal of superb grilled eel at a nearby café. He was definitely a fish man, but this would be their last dinner together.

Zoe looked at her watch. “It’s getting late, Andreas. Don’t you think you’d better get back to Patras if you’re expecting to fly to Athens in the morning?”

“It’s only an hour’s drive. Why do I get the feeling you’re trying to get rid of me?”

She sucked in her breath. “That’s the first cruel thing you’ve ever said to me. I thought we were friends.”

“I’m sorry if it came off sounding that way.”

“I’m the one who’s sorry. I guess I worry that you’re a man with so many responsibilities. You’ve done everything for me since that accident.”

“It’s obvious that you’re not used to letting anyone help you.”

That was a plain fact. “You’re right. I need to learn to be more gracious. Thank you for this whole day and the dinner tonight.”

“You’re welcome. If you’re ready, I’ll walk you to the hotel and say goodbye for another week.”

Another seven days away from him. How would she be able to handle it?

He accompanied her as far as the hotel foyer. “I plan to come for you when you’re through here. I’ll call you.”

“I know you can’t wait for tomorrow to see Ari. It makes me happy just thinking about the two of you together.”

“Good luck with your research.”

They were talking around each other. She could see a little nerve throbbing at the corner of his mouth before he turned on his heel and walked out of the hotel.

Zoe hurried up to her room on the second floor and burst into tears. This had to end.

For the rest of the week she did as much research as she could. On the sixth day, she packed up and rented a car to drive back to Patras. From there she made a plane reservation for a night flight to Venice. For the rest of the day she got her laundry and packing done.

She couldn’t stay in Greece any longer. Zoe had been the first woman Andreas had turned to since filing for his separation. It was possible he and Lia might even reconcile given a little more time and no outside distractions. He’d told Zoe that Lia still wanted him back. Zoe didn’t doubt it and couldn’t help but wonder if that knowledge didn’t work on Andreas. If he wanted to try again with Lia, Zoe knew it would kill her.

Even if that didn’t happen, in time there would be more women when Andreas was finally free. Nate had found another woman before they were ever divorced. It was inevitable the same thing would happen with Andreas. Zoe wasn’t the kind of a woman to hold a man like him for long, not after she couldn’t keep even Nate interested.

No matter where they went, every female eye followed Andreas because of his looks and sheer charisma. Her legs went weak whenever she saw him waiting out in front of her apartment.

Here she was at twenty-six, on the verge of being swept away by the sheer male beauty and magnetism of Andreas Gavras. She’d learned he was the renowned hotelier of Gavras House Properties and an influential, fabulously wealthy business tycoon from the powerful Gavras family. Their name figured heavily in the economic future of western Greece.

Though she was madly attracted to him, she had to get away while she still could. It would be impossible to go on remaining just friends with him, not when deep down she wanted him in all the ways a woman wanted a man. And when his interest turned to someone else, then what?

After paying the bill, she left at eight that evening and sat in the airport waiting for the call to board her flight. That’s when her phone rang. She checked the caller ID. A moan escaped when she saw Andreas’s name. With a pounding heart, she clicked on. This was it.

“Andreas? How are you?”

“Looking forward to seeing you. It’s good to hear your voice. I thought I’d better call now to find out how soon you’ll be ready in the morning.”

She started to tremble. “I’m so glad you called when you did. I have something important to tell you.”

There was a definite pause before he said, “Does this mean you need to stay there longer?”

“No. I just received news from my two friends. They’re both in Venice right now and are begging me to come. One of them, Ginger, is being married to a Venetian on July 5, which is in less than a week. The three of us want to spend some time together before the wedding, so I’m on my way there now.”

“What do you mean you’re on your way?” His voice sounded fierce.

She gripped her phone tighter. “I’m at the airport and they’re calling for my flight right now. I have to go.”

“When will you be coming back?”

Heaven help me.

“I’m flying straight back to California after I leave Venice. I’ve been away a long time and need to get my affairs in order before I start teaching again this fall.”

“You can’t leave yet. There are things you don’t know. Things I need to tell you.”

“Andreas—I’m so sorry. I have to board the plane. But let me say this one last thing. You’ll never know what meeting you has meant to me. I’ll always be grateful to you for everything. You’re the finest man I’ve ever known. I guarantee that in time your life is going to be happy again. Take care, my good friend.”

CHAPTER THREE

ZOE STOOD NEXT to Abby and her husband, Raoul Decorvet, in front of the fabulous Palazzo Della Scala in Venice. Together with the other wedding guests, they watched Vittorio kiss a radiant Ginger before helping her climb in the flower-laden gondola in their wedding finery.

Off on a honeymoon and a heavenly future, and Zoe couldn’t have been happier for her, or for Abby, who’d also recently married her titled Frenchman and now lived in Burgundy.

Abby and Raoul had invited Zoe to stay with them until she had to fly back to California. That was her plan. But later in the day when she went up to the guest room in the palazzo, she ended up calling her friend.

“Abby? There’s something I have to tell you. If you can’t talk now—”

“Raoul is still downstairs with Vittorio’s family discussing the lawsuit being waged against him. What’s wrong?”

Zoe broke down and told her about Andreas. “Do you think I’m crazy to want to go back when nothing can come of it?”

“You’re asking me a question like that? The woman who left for France with a virtual stranger who might or might not have been on the level about showing me a poem of Lord Byron’s?”

She laughed through the tears. “But Raoul wasn’t just working his way through a troubled separation. I don’t know any details about Andreas’s marriage and don’t want to, but I’ve seen the pain in his eyes. Sometimes he seems miles away. Whatever he’s holding back, he hasn’t shared it with me. I can’t handle it.”

“At least this Andreas told you up front he was separated from his wife and had a child, but it sounds like he’s being careful. I’m sorry you left before he could explain more. It might have been important.”

Zoe wiped the moisture off her cheeks. “I don’t know, but it doesn’t really matter because I’m afraid to get in any deeper. Like Nate, he’s no more ready for a lasting relationship than a fly. That’s the only kind I want and probably won’t ever experience. I’ve been through one divorce and have no desire to be used or hurt because he’s looking for temporary comfort.”

“It doesn’t sound like he’s using you, Zoe. Quite the opposite, in fact, considering his attention to you and the help he’s given you.”

“I’ll admit he’s been incredible.”

“That’s honest at least,” Abby murmured. “Look—I hear what you’re saying, but I can tell you’re really torn up at leaving him. I never thought I’d see you in this condition. Driving off into the sunset with Raoul after what Nigel did to me was close to lunacy, except that I felt something for him I had to explore. Now look what’s happened!”

“Your story is like a fairy tale.”

“Ginger’s is, too. She’d adored her husband who’d died and thought she could never find that happiness again. Then she met Vittorio, who won her heart. Now she’s the wife of a fantastic, important Venetian. Maybe it’s your turn.”

My turn for more regrets.

“Much as I’d selfishly hoped you would stay at the chateau with me for the rest of the summer, my advice is to go back and hear him out.”

She sucked in her breath. “Abby? I can’t believe you’re telling me this. Do you remember the conversation the three of us had at the vineyard in Geneva at the start of our vacation? When you told us about the French Realtor you’d met, Ginger and I were fearful for you. Something that sounded so good couldn’t possibly be true.”

“But it was, Zoe, even though he turned out not to be a Realtor.”

“I know,” she whispered.

“What could it hurt to see him one more time and hear what he has to say? You were pretty abrupt to cut it off on the phone with him when he had no idea you’d been planning to leave. It isn’t as if he did something you couldn’t abide. Or did he?”

“Of course not. If anything—”

“He hasn’t even kissed you?” Abby broke in on her.

Her face went hot. “I told you. It hasn’t been that kind of a relationship. I don’t know what you’d call it.”

“Then go back and find out. If I’m wrong and seeing him again only causes you more pain and frustration, then come to Burgundy. My invitation is always open. As for tomorrow, on our way home Raoul and I will drive you to the airport in the morning, if that’s what you want.”

Zoe’s hand squeezed the phone tightly. “I’m afraid it is what I want. You’re the greatest friend in the world, Abby.”

After they hung up, she booked a flight to Patras. Abby had given her the courage. She needed to see Andreas again one last time and tell him the truth. That she’d started to develop feelings for him but it was wrong to act on them while he still wasn’t free.

Andreas stared gloomily out the window of his private jet as it headed to Patras airport from Athens, where he’d spent a couple of days on business. After Zoe had said goodbye to him a week ago, he’d almost gone out of his mind. Ari was the only constant in his life and he didn’t see enough of him. Knowing Zoe was on her way to California was killing him.

When he wasn’t with Ari at Gavras House in Athens, Andreas wanted to spend every free minute with Zoe. He’d thought she’d felt the same way until that phone call. Her goodbye had gutted him. He’d experienced a staggering sense of loss and asked her to listen to him, but she’d hung up. He hadn’t had the opportunity to tell her what was on his mind.

The next time he went to Athens, he’d had plans to take her with him so she could meet Ari. Ever since he’d met her, Andreas had sensed something earthshaking was happening to him and she was the reason.

Whatever had frightened her off, he vowed this wasn’t going to be the end. He knew where to find her, even if it meant flying to California.

All these thoughts and more bombarded him as the jet landed and he got in the back of the limousine. He told his driver to take him to the Gavras building complex in the city center. His office manager, Lukas, needed his signature on new construction contracts that would take time to study.

When he walked into his inner sanctum, Lukas followed him inside. “Welcome back. Before we get started, I received a phone call from a woman who is most anxious to talk to you. The number is on your desk.”

“Was she calling from Yorgos Zika’s office?” He supposed it was something to do with Lia asking for more money to finalize the purchase of the Athenian villa she’d chosen. He would pay it. The sooner she was settled, the sooner he would change the temporary terms of visitation.

“No. This woman is an American and asked to speak to you if you were available.”

His heart hammered wildly. Zoe? Why did she call his office instead of reaching him on his cell phone? Was she still in Italy? Andreas was incredulous.

“What did you tell her?”

“That you were flying in from Athens sometime today.”

“Thank you, Lukas. I’ll make the call, then we’ll go over the contracts.”

He nodded and left, shutting the door.

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