An exotic island. An irresistible man.

Award-winning photographer Danica Austin is the essence of urban chic. But with her love life going nowhere fast, she’s more than ready to swap houses for a month in Hawaii. The minute her plane touches down on exotic Hilo, Danica can’t wait to check out the social scene and catch some breathtaking sunsets. Until gorgeous real estate investor Boyd Reed comes into the picture to stake his claim on the house…and her heart!

If this stunning stranger thinks she can just move into Boyd’s jointly owned waterfront property, she can think again! Although he must admit: his temporary tenant is one irresistible woman. Sharing passion under tropical skies is making Boyd believe in the power of love. But Danica’s not sure she wants to make Hawaii her home. If only he can just persuade her to spend the rest of her days and nights with him in their one-of-a-kind island paradise.…

“You probably have the most desirable lips I’ve ever seen on a woman,” he said.

Danica couldn’t help but laugh. “I think you may have had one glass of wine too many.”

“That’s not true. I’ve never been more serious.”

“Looks like the charmer in you is coming out.” Ashlyn had warned her that Boyd could be extremely charming when he wanted to be.

“Does that mean I can see for myself if my theory is true?”

“Go for it,” she said, admittedly curious to see how he kissed. Something told her the man could back up his charms with sweet and tender action.

Boyd didn’t waste another second. He tilted his face and moved down onto her mouth with a kiss that wasn’t intended to knock her off her feet as much as to give her a taste of what he had to offer. His lips played with her soft ones, parting them slightly and enjoying every moment before ending the kiss abruptly.

Danica had to catch her breath. “Well, what did you think? Did I pass the test for the most desirable lips or not?” She hoped it wasn’t a letdown for him that she’d held back from giving the kiss her all, not wanting to get too carried away this early in their new friendship.

“You definitely passed,” Boyd declared. “With flying colors.”

Books by Devon Vaughn Archer

Kimani Romance

Christmas Heat

Destined to Meet

Kissing the Man Next Door

Christmas Diamonds

Pleasure in Hawaii

Private Luau

Aloha Fantasy

DEVON VAUGHN ARCHER

is the bestselling author of many Kimani Romance titles, including the current Passions In Paradise series, featuring three stories that take place on different Hawaiian islands, including Pleasure in Hawaii, Private Luau and Aloha Fantasy.

He is also the author of the Kimani Romance holiday classics Christmas Diamonds and Christmas Wishes. Archer was the first male author to write for Harlequin’s Arabesque line with the tender love story Love Once Again.

The author has also written a number of bestselling urban and mainstream fiction books, including Danger At Every Turn and The Hitman’s Woman, and the well-received young-adult fiction titles, His Teen Dream and Her Teen Dream.

To keep up with his latest news and upcoming books, Devon Vaughn Archer can be connected with or followed on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, MySpace, Goodreads, YouTube and www.devonvaughnarcher.com.

Aloha Fantasy

Devon Vaughn Archer

www.millsandboon.co.uk

Aloha Reader,

I am very excited to present to you Aloha Fantasy, the last book in my Passions In Paradise series, with each story taking place on a different island. Pleasure in Hawaii was set in Maui and Private Luau in Oahu.

The Big Island, or island of Hawaii, is the setting for Aloha Fantasy. It is a volcanic island that adds to its romantic allure and mysticism. You will enjoy what the protagonists discover as they explore the treasures of the Big Island and each other.

If you had the opportunity to trade places for a month with your college roommate who happened to live in Hawaii, wouldn’t you jump at the opportunity? Well, that’s exactly what the heroine does, only to find the handsome hero only too happy to welcome her to paradise.

Sit back, relax and take the journey yourself through the pages of this novel.

Mahalo!

Devon Vaughn Archer

I would like to thank my wife, H. Loraine, for her long hours spent editing this book and enjoying how I was able to bring the Big Island to life through this romance novel.

I express appreciation to the Harlequin/Kimani editors and staff who played a role in the publication process of this book and the other two in my Passions In Paradise series.

To “Maui Mermaid,” my college sweetheart turned loving wife who is as hooked on Hawaii and its wonders as I am.

And to my mother, Marjah Aljean Flowers,

and a lifelong dream of reaching the shores of Hawaii. Never give up on the dream!

Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 1

Danica Austin waited impatiently at the Dearborn Street martini bar in Chicago for a lunchtime date that her fellow photographer friend Jessy Sarchuk had insisted would be worth her while. With no man in her life at the moment Danica had reluctantly decided to go on the date, if only to show Jessy she was totally over the guy she’d dumped six months ago after he’d hit on one of her other friends. Now it looked as if she had been stood up.

She checked her iPhone smartphone for messages and saw it was blank. It pissed her off, but Danica was careful not to show anything other than the outward appearance of a beautiful, well-dressed African-American woman sitting all by her lonesome enjoying a Death by Chocolate martini. You owe me, Jessy, for wasting my valuable time. I won’t make that mistake again. Suddenly she was in no mood to finish the drink and decided to head home and relax a bit before going back to work.

Danica was an award-winning professional photographer who made a good living doing everything from fashion to scenery to corporate photography. Though independent, she belonged to a loose group of other female photographers which included Jessy.

Speak of the devil, Danica thought as her phone rang just as she got into her Subaru Impreza sedan.

“Your friend never bothered to show up,” Danica told her curtly, putting the call on speaker so she could drive safely.

“That’s why I’m calling,” Jessy said. “He accidentally deleted your number. He called me instead to say that he was running late but still wanted to get together.”

Danica sneered. “It’s called Bad Karma. We just weren’t meant to be. Sorry.”

“So am I. Just don’t say I told you so.”

I’ll think it instead, she silently replied. But to her friend she uttered, “I’m not saying a thing. I think I’ll just stay on my own for now and see what the future holds.”

“A guy won’t simply fall into your lap, girlfriend,” Jessy said. “You have to make things happen.”

“I’ll try to remember that. For now, I’d like to focus on the present. Talk to you later.”

Danica disconnected and brushed away some of her long, straight brown hair with blond highlights that had fallen into her face. She wondered if it was her true destiny to be single for the rest of her life. Granted, she was only thirty-two. It wasn’t as if she was at the end of her road and couldn’t get a decent man if she tried. It was more about quality over quantity. Much like her photography.

And for this day anyway, it just wasn’t going to happen. At least not with some guy who couldn’t hold on to a phone number.

Danica arrived at her loft on Michigan Avenue just south of the Loop and parked in the garage. She took the elevator up to the place she’d called home for three years now, having been the first person to occupy the converted warehouse loft. She loved the space, with the high concrete ceilings, exposed beams, large windows and bamboo flooring.

Maybe it would be a little better if I had someone to share it with.

Or not.

She kicked off her clogs and poured herself a glass of white wine. Her cell phone chimed to indicate she had a text message. Lifting it from the granite countertop, she saw it was from her old college roommate, Ashlyn Hirokawa.

If not busy, make a Skype call.

Danica smiled, only too happy to video chat with her friend. Ashlyn lived in Hawaii on the Big Island, a place Danica had always wanted to visit. Somehow, though, it never seemed to be the right time. She had not seen Ashlyn in person for nine years now—since, a year after their Michigan State University graduation, Ashlyn had met her briefly in New York while they both were there for business.

Danica sat down at her workstation and turned on the computer. She brought up the Skype interface and clicked on Video Call for Ashlyn. A moment later her friend’s smiling face appeared on the screen.

“Aloha!”

Danica returned the island greeting. She noticed Ashlyn’s raven hair had been cut into a cute bob that highlighted her light brown complexion and big sable-colored eyes. She had gotten the best features of her Polynesian mother and African-American father. Ashlyn had chosen to use her mother’s maiden name, both in memory of her and as part of her Hawaiian heritage.

“What are you up to?” Ashlyn asked.

“It’s more like what am I not up to?” Danica said, then vented over her arranged date failing to show up.

“Join the club,” Ashlyn complained. “The men in my life haven’t exactly been at my beck and call, when they bother showing up at all.”

Danica laughed. “Maybe it’s just us.” She didn’t truly believe that. Both of them were beautiful, successful women who probably could have had any decent man they wanted—if there was such a thing.

“I seriously doubt that. Could be we’re just looking in all the wrong places.”

“You could be right about that,” Danica said. “I wonder when the first flight to Mars is going out. We could sign up to take the trip and see who’s on that uncharted land.”

Ashlyn’s head fell back in laughter. “Count me in.” She grew serious. “Or maybe there’s another way to take on uncharted territory…”

Danica watched as her friend’s eyes seemed to twinkle. “I’m all ears.”

“We could swap places.”

“Are you serious?” Even as she asked, she tried to imagine actually trading life in the Windy City for the more laid-back Hawaii.

“Why not?” Ashlyn responded. “I’ve got a month’s vacation coming up and I would love to spend it anywhere other than the Hawaiian Islands for a change. Chicago seems as good a place as any to meet some new people and enjoy the hustle and bustle of life that I don’t really get to see here. And you, girlfriend, would just love it in Hilo, where there are activities galore and so many things you can take pictures of to build up your portfolio. Not that you need to.”

Danica smiled and sipped her wine. Admittedly the thought was intriguing. She’d never done something so crazy. At least not since they were in college, where seemingly any adventure was acceptable, if only to keep pace with school tradition. But this was the real world and people did not just fly across a country and an ocean to swap places.

On the other hand there was nothing—or no one—holding her back. Fortunately, as an independent photographer, she could operate anywhere. And where on earth could be better than Hawaii, or more specifically, the Big Island?

She looked at her friend. “I’m warming up to the idea.”

Ashlyn beamed. “I was hoping you might.”

“So how would we do this?”

“It’s simple, really,” Ashlyn said. “Let’s decide on dates, leave a key under the doormat and cars at the airport, and let the adventure begin.”

“Hmm…that does sound simple,” Danica said with a laugh. Maybe too simple. Could she really take over Ashlyn’s house and car for a month and vice versa? Was she overthinking this?

Ashlyn seemed to read her mind. “Look, if you run into any problems, Boyd will be around to help you out.”

“Your brother?” Danica had seen a picture of him way back in the day and thought he was handsome, but she had no idea what he looked like now. She knew he was Ashlyn’s half brother on her dad’s side. And that he and Ashlyn were pretty close.

“Yes,” Ashlyn said. “Boyd actually does come in handy around here every now and then. I’m sure you two would get along just fine.”

“Oh, you do, do you?” Danica narrowed her eyes. If she hadn’t known better, she would think Ashlyn was trying to fix her up with her older brother. Hadn’t he once been married and a playboy ever since?

“Boyd’s totally your type—tall, solidly built and cute as a button. Especially when he gets that dimple thing going in his cheeks when he grins.”

“Sounds interesting,” Danica admitted. “But I’d rather keep my options open in your neck of the woods, if it’s all right with you.”

“Fair enough.” Ashlyn smiled. “I wouldn’t want to push you two together or anything.”

That was a relief to Danica, as the last thing she needed was pressure when it came to dating. Particularly where it concerned her good friend’s brother.

“So…about the accommodations—”

“Boyd doesn’t live with me, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

“I wasn’t,” Danica told her, even if the thought had crossed her mind and not necessarily in a bad way. She just didn’t want things to be awkward between them if Boyd had his run of the residence as she tried to make the most of it during her stay.

“We both own the house our dad left us,” Ashlyn said, “but Boyd has his own place and this is pretty much mine to do as I please. And, for a month, it’ll be yours.”

“I like the sound of that.” Danica had long been envious of her friend’s beachfront house in paradise. The idea that she could borrow it for a few weeks was very enticing. Not to mention the environment was perfect for a photographer to do her thing.

And if Boyd was willing to show her around to some of the best places the island had to offer, all the better.

“Are there any hotties among your male neighbors or friends who might be in the market for a petite, sexy, fun-loving Hawaiian girl?” Ashlyn asked.

“Let me think…” Danica pretended to consider the question deeply. “Uh, yeah, I’m sure there’s somebody.” She smiled. “Probably all of them. Only I doubt that most would appeal to you. But I’ll see who I can come up with who might be able to show you a good time.”

Ashlyn beamed. “Sounds like a plan.”

“Yes, it does, and I can hardly wait to make the switch.” Danica took a sip of her wine. “I just hope I don’t get so comfortable in your tropical paradise that I don’t want to come back.”

“Then don’t come back, if that’s the case,” Ashlyn said with a straight face. “I’d love to have a roommate to share that big house and some good times.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.” Danica tried to imagine relocating to Hawaii permanently. It would be hard to leave behind Chicago and the contacts she had built and maintained both personally and professionally. But that didn’t mean she couldn’t keep them from afar and establish new ones if there were strong enough reasons to remain in Hilo.

For now she was just happy to be taking this big adventure, having no idea what to expect. She was up to the challenge, though, and clearly Ashlyn was, as well. If it worked out well, maybe they could do it again in the future.

She raised her wineglass. “To a great swap!”

“Ditto,” Ashlyn said as they virtually clinked glasses.

* * *

“You’re joking, right?” The words came out of Boyd Reed’s twisted mouth and were hardly meant to be humorous. His half sister, Ashlyn, had just told him about her plans to lend out their house to a veritable stranger.

Ashlyn batted her lashes as they stood on the lanai. “Of course not. It was just a spur of the moment thing I threw out there and I’m glad I did. I think it will be a good experience for me and Danica.”

Boyd didn’t exactly see it that way. To him, this Danica was getting a month’s free rent in a million-dollar property. He doubted his sister would be getting the same deal, even if she thought this seemed like a great idea.

“You’ve seen her what, once in the past decade?” He’d gathered this much from what Ashlyn had told him about her college friend over the years.

“Actually I see her all the time thanks to Skype,” Ashlyn quipped.

“You know what I mean.”

Ashlyn frowned. “I don’t understand what you’re getting so riled up about.”

“Then I’ll tell you.” His thick brows drew together. “That’s a valuable piece of real estate you’re living in. You can’t just go around inviting people you hardly know outside of virtual reality to practically take up residence here. For all you know she could trash the place, or worse!”

“Danica is perfectly harmless,” Ashlyn countered. “And I do know her quite well. She’s definitely not the trashing-someone’s-house type. We may not have seen each other in person very often since college, but we’ve always kept in touch by phone, email and even snail mail over the years. Besides, this was my idea to switch places, not hers.”

“But she certainly seized the opportunity,” Boyd grumbled stubbornly, a trait he’d inherited from their father. Whereas Ashlyn was just like her mother—generous to a fault and perfectly happy taking chances with her life. And property. Well, he wasn’t going to just stand by without at least giving his opinion that she could be playing with fire in coming up with this cockamamy plan.

“Can you blame her?” Ashlyn challenged him. “Who wouldn’t want to spend a few weeks in Hawaii, soaking up the sun and everything else our islands have to offer?”

“Yeah, I suppose.” Boyd realized he was fighting a losing battle with little ground to stand on. Maybe he was just being overprotective of her and the property they co-owned.

“What are you so worried about anyway? Do you honestly believe Danica plans to come here and make a mess of things just to piss you off? Or maybe rob us out of house and home, as if she needs to?” Ashlyn folded her arms, giving him a look that suggested how ridiculous that was. “The lady’s an award-winning, highly respected photographer, who’s doing quite well for herself, thank you.”

“I never suggested she was a thief,” Boyd said lamely. Even if he questioned her motives, it was obvious to him that Danica was successful in her own right. Just as Ashlyn was, as an international relations specialist. And he was an unqualified success as an investor in everything from stocks to high-end properties. His keen investments afforded him the ability to act as a tour guide on the side. Showing visitors his appreciation for the paradise he lived in made his pleasant life even sweeter.

“If you give Danica half a chance, you just might find you two have a lot in common,” Ashlyn said.

“Such as…?” He imagined this would be good.

She met his gaze. “You’re both headstrong, great looking, educated, successful, independent, outgoing…and available—”

“Whoa…hold on a minute.” Boyd had no argument about the adjectives applied to them until she got to the available part. Yes, he was single again and—by choice—had been for some time. Between work and not finding that one woman who really fit the bill, he wasn’t looking at the moment. “This isn’t about my love life.” Or was she being sneaky in trying to play matchmaker between him and her college friend?

“Hey, I’m just saying…” Ashlyn gave him a coy look.

“Yeah, right.” He frowned lightly, even though he knew she had his back always, as he did hers.

“Danica’s a great gal and still my best friend. All I’m asking is that you give this experiment a chance to work for me and her. And don’t be afraid to put your tour guide cap on to show her around our great city. I promise she won’t bite.”

Boyd grinned. He wasn’t entirely averse to being bitten by the right woman. And maybe nibbling on her body, too. It would be premature, though, to think that this was in the works with her friend.

“Fine,” he relented. “She can come and hang out at the house for a month. I promise I’ll be on my best behavior and make her feel welcome on the island.”

Ashlyn’s face broke into a wide smile. “Mahalo.” She lifted up on her toes and hugged him. “I knew I could count on you.”

“Always,” Boyd promised. He would take Danica’s visit one day at a time till her month was up and Ashlyn was back where she belonged.

And Danica was back in Chicago.

* * *

It was exactly a week after they made plans to switch residences for a month that Danica was aboard a plane bound for Hilo International Airport. Though she had hardly been able to think about anything else, it was still hard to believe she was actually en route to heaven on earth. She was almost giddy with excitement and intended not to waste one moment in this trip of a lifetime.

If that meant trying new things, she would.

She’d love to be swept off her feet by a hunk in Hawaii who could take as much as he gave. But she wasn’t getting her hopes up. Whether in Chicago, Hilo or anywhere else, romance only happened if the connection was there. And if it wasn’t, oh, well…

Danica sipped on her cocktail in first class, looking out on the thick white clouds. She knew that at that moment Ashlyn was en route to Chicago. They had timed it to practically pass each other in the air as they literally switched places in their lives.

Before she’d left, she had given her loft a more thorough cleaning than usual, wanting to leave a good impression for her friend, whom Danica believed was getting the short end of the stick in the exchange. She, on the other hand, was getting a slice of Hawaii, which spoke for itself.

Nevertheless Danica was proud of her place in the Windy City and wanted Ashlyn to feel right at home. Toward that end, she’d left her a few goodies—fresh fruit, chocolate and wine—the latter two of which were Ashlyn’s guilty pleasures. And Danica’s friends promised to take Ashlyn out on the town and be available if she needed anything.

As promised, Danica had asked a handsome male friend named Hunter Ortega to give Ashlyn a call and see if they might hit it off. Hunter was a successful investment banker who had been to Hawaii many times. He was also single after ending a long relationship and seemed a good match for Ashlyn.

One can only hope we both do better in each other’s stomping grounds than in our own backyards when it comes to finding love.

When the plane landed, Danica had butterflies in her stomach. She was on the Big Island and there was no turning back now. For a month, this was home.

She received a spirited lei greeting and was pointed in the right direction to retrieve her bags. Afterward, she found Ashlyn’s white Suzuki Kizashi sedan and was on her way. Marveling at the lush scenery, Danica drove from the airport and, per Ashlyn’s instructions, wound her way through several streets before reaching Kalanianaole Avenue and the house she would call home for the next month.

It was a large two-story Hawaiian plantation-style residence surrounded by mature landscaping of palm trees and lush tropical plants.

Danica walked onto the lava-rock front porch with a built-in koa wood seat. She found the key under the doormat and went inside, stepping onto a ceramic-tiled floor in the foyer.

All she could think of after one glance of the great room was Wow! The place was huge, with a eucalyptus hardwood floor. The sun shone through a skylight over a vaulted beam ceiling. The furnishings were an impressive blend of antique and contemporary. On a hexagonal glass coffee table was a bottle of macadamia nut honey wine with a ribbon around it and a tag that read Welcome.

Before she sampled it and went on the grand tour, she had one task—to set up her laptop.

She and Ashlyn had sent each other a short video message to be played the moment they arrived in each other’s homes.

Sitting down on the plush couch, she watched as Ashlyn’s face came onto the computer screen.

“Aloha, Danica. Welcome to my home. I won’t take up any of your precious time. Just wanted to tell you a bit about the house. It was built in 1937 by my grandparents, who left it to my parents, and eventually it became my and Boyd’s property. The house overlooks Richardson Beach with black sand that you’ll find really interesting. Okay, enough from me. Have fun and maybe meet the man of your dreams. Aloha!”

Danica smiled. She was already having fun. As for meeting the man of her dreams, she was keeping an open mind but not getting her hopes up.

She rose and approached stained-glass doors that opened to the backyard garden and a path toward the ocean. After grabbing her digital camera, Danica stepped outside, basking in the warmth and sunshine. She couldn’t resist taking a few pictures right away to send back to her friends in Chicago.

Walking across winding cobblestones, Danica stood not far from the beach, taking in its intriguing black sand. She snapped more pictures, this time focusing on the marvelous ocean itself. Turning back to the magnificent yard, she came to a section with red, pink, white and purple anthurium flowers and couldn’t resist the urge to see them through her lens. The yard was shaded by grand hapu’u tree ferns and fruit and palm trees.

What she wouldn’t give to have them in her backyard every time she stepped out of the house.

Danica shifted the camera west across the grassy yard, hoping to catch a perfect sunset. Her lens instead fell upon the sculpted image of a tall, muscular African-American man with black Rasta locks. After getting over the shock, Danica had to admit he had certainly gotten her attention better than any sunset ever could.

Chapter 2

“So you must be Ashlyn’s friend?” Boyd asked, as if he had a doubt.

“Yes,” she answered, moving the camera away from her face. Her big café au lait eyes assessed him. “And I take it you’re the brother?”

He flashed a half grin. “Indeed. Aloha.” Moving closer, he stuck out a hand. “Boyd Reed.”

“Danica Austin.” She put her hand in his, feeling his long fingers wrap firmly around hers as she gazed up at his eyes, which were an appealing mix of steel gray and jet black. “Aloha.”

Boyd studied the woman. He had to say that the few photographs he’d seen of her hardly did her justice. She was gorgeous, with a butterscotch complexion, high cheeks, a dainty nose and full lips. The fine brunette hair fell below her shoulders and suited her. She was slender with just the right curves. She had on a white ruffle corset, jeans that hugged her hips and flats, which from where Boyd stood were perfect for her above average height.

“Didn’t mean to scare you,” he said. “I called out for you inside, but got no answer. Then I heard you out here.”

“It’s all right,” Danica said after taking a breath. Of course he had a key to the house. After all, it was part his. Still, it might have been nice had he phoned ahead of time to let her know he was coming. “You may have caught me off guard, but that was mainly because I was so absorbed with the beauty all around me.”

And now with the beauty in front of her. She had to admit that Ashlyn’s brother was one hunk of a man. Her immediate thought was of Boris Kodjoe with dreadlocks, in an attractive coat of milk chocolate and at least six foot three inches. Boyd wore a print shirt and shorts, accentuating his muscled arms and strong legs. Sneakers completed the relaxed island look she’d already come to recognize.

Danica resisted the urge to snap his picture. After all, besides being Ashlyn’s very appealing, photo-worthy brother, he represented Hawaii itself.

“I take it this is your first time to the islands?” Boyd asked.

“Yes. I’ve wanted to come for years, but the time was never right.”

Until Ashlyn decided to give you free room and board and you simply couldn’t resist. “I see,” he said. “Look, I would have been happy to pick you up at the airport, but Ashlyn said the two of you had worked it out to take each other’s car as part of this swap.”

“We did,” Danica acknowledged, somehow sensing he wasn’t necessarily on board with their arrangement. Why was that? “Seemed like a fun way to step into each other’s world. I thank you anyway for being willing to chaperone me from the airport, had that been necessary.”

“Not a problem.” Boyd gave a tiny smile. He wished she wasn’t so damned attractive; it only made it more difficult not to like her. Even more he wished she hadn’t come. Would she find she couldn’t hack it and leave early? Maybe he would just let this thing play out and see how things went. For all he knew, maybe Ashlyn would find that Chicago wasn’t exactly what she had in mind and be back on the Big Island in a snap, sending her friend packing.

“So did you have a chance to check out your new digs?” he asked Danica, trying to keep his voice friendly instead of overly suspicious and guarded.

“No, I haven’t had the chance to do that yet,” she said.

“Well in that case allow me to give you the grand tour.”

Did she have a choice? She forced a smile. “That would be nice.”

* * *

“This is obviously the kitchen.” Boyd wondered if she was a good cook. That wasn’t Ashlyn’s forte, while he had always been handy in the kitchen.

“I can see that.” Danica looked around at the spacious room with old-world craftsmanship, Koa wood cabinets, stainless steel appliances and even an ocean view. I’ll bet I could cook up a storm in here, she thought. Maybe even invite him to join me. Or would that be going overboard for someone she didn’t really know?

Boyd opened the refrigerator. “Ashlyn took the liberty of stocking it with what she remembered as some of your favorites, along with some authentic Hawaiian cuisine.”

Danica flashed a smile. “How sweet of her.” In fact, she had done the very same thing in her loft to make it easier for her friend.

They moved from room to room on the first floor and Danica was awed by both the simplicity and elegance of the home. On the second floor there were yet more well-appointed rooms with terrific views of the ocean and mountains.

“This is the master suite, or Ashlyn’s room,” Boyd pointed out. Or your room for now. “Hope it’s to your liking.”

“What’s not to like?” Danica said, scanning the bedroom/sitting area from its huge windows to the hardwood floor to the rustic cedar furnishings. It seemed like the perfect room, one she could imagine cozying up in over the next four weeks.

“I was thinking the same thing.” About you. Boyd stood over her, contemplating what it would be like to make love to her. Something told him the experience would reach his very core. He turned away such thoughts, realizing that she wasn’t there for his pleasure. And he wasn’t ready to give Danica a free pass for taking advantage of Ashlyn’s generosity.

Danica was also very much aware of Boyd’s presence, the heat emanating from his solid body so near that it made her own temperature rise. She could actually picture them on Ashlyn’s queen bed doing some things that would truly set her soul on fire. She forced herself to cool off mentally and get back to the real world. One where Boyd was only hanging around as a courtesy. Or so she assumed.

“Well, thanks for the tour,” she told him, looking over her shoulder.

“My pleasure.” Boyd wasn’t ready to see this end just yet. “I’m sure you must be hungry after your long flight and probably some less-than-tasty offerings on the airline.”

“I’m starved,” Danica admitted.

“I’d be happy to whip up something for you,” he offered. “Or better yet, there’s a nice bistro not far from here that has some great food. My treat.”

“The bistro sounds good. Let me just freshen up.”

“Of course.” Boyd smiled. “I have to make a phone call anyway. I’ll wait outside for you.”

Danica wondered if Ashlyn had put him up to this kindness on her behalf. Or was it all Boyd’s own doing? Either way, she didn’t see where it hurt either of them to have a meal together as she got used to her new home away from home.

After washing her face and brushing her hair, Danica applied just a touch of makeup, which was all she ever wore anyway. During the daytime she had to remember to put on sunblock, wanting to protect herself from the strong Hawaiian rays.

She peeked out the window and saw Boyd leaning against a shiny black Mercedes-Benz sedan, a cell phone up to his ear. Apparently he did well for himself. She seemed to recall Ashlyn saying something about him being a big-time investor. But her friend hadn’t indicated that he was seeing anyone. In fact, she had suggested just the opposite.

Not that Danica could honestly expect that a man as hot as Boyd was just waiting around in this hotbed of beautiful women for her to arrive on the scene. Any more than he had any right to expect that she had come to the Big Island in search of him.

Downstairs Danica got on her computer, hoping Ashlyn was at her place by now and available for a quick chat. She opened the Skype interface and rang her.

Within a few moments, Ashlyn’s face appeared.

“Well, Aloha,” Ashlyn said. “Looks like you’ve arrived at your destination, safe and sound.”

A smile crossed Danica’s face. “I could say the same about you.”

“Yes, I’m here and loving your place.”

“You took the words right out of my mouth,” Danica said. “Your house is out of this world. How could you ever want to leave for even one day, much less a month?”

Ashlyn chuckled. “People have often asked me that when I’ve traveled elsewhere. I usually tell them that I prefer to see the green grass on the other side from time to time.”

Danica laughed. “Good way of putting it.”

“The Windy City should give me plenty to work with.”

“I hope so,” Danica said, knowing that Hilo would provide her with more than enough things to do. “So…I’ve met your brother.”

Ashlyn smiled. “I was about to ask you about him. What do you think?”

“He’s very handsome,” she said honestly.

“Just don’t let that go to his head,” her friend joked. “Otherwise, I might never hear the end of it.”

“I’ll try to remember that.”

“Has Boyd been on his best behavior?” asked Ashlyn.

“So far, so good.” Danica could see him still yapping away outside. “In fact, he’s invited me out for a bite to eat.”

“Hmm…good for you.”

“It’s just a meal,” Danica emphasized. “I have to eat.”

“I didn’t stock the fridge enough?” Ashlyn teased. “Seriously, have fun with my big brother and then whatever happens, happens.”

“I could say the same about you and Hunter. Has he gotten in touch yet?”

“As a matter of fact he phoned while I was still at the airport in Hilo,” Ashlyn said. “And again after I arrived. Seems like a nice guy. We’ve already made plans to get together tomorrow.”

“That was quick.”

“Look who’s talking.”

Danica blushed. She didn’t exactly consider her outing with Boyd a date, per se, but she could hardly argue the point. She glanced up and saw Boyd heading toward the house.

“Well, I’d better get going,” she told her. “Thanks again for this idea.”

“I just wish I’d thought of it years ago,” Ashlyn responded. “Who knows how it might have turned out for us?”

“Maybe the next four weeks will give us an idea.”

She stood up as Boyd entered. “How are we doing in here?” he asked, meeting her eyes.

“I’m all set,” she answered, smiling.

* * *

Boyd drove the short distance to the restaurant, happy to be in the company of Danica, even if he still found it odd that she and Ashlyn had gone through with this crazy idea. Did that mean Danica hadn’t left behind some dude aching for her companionship? Ashlyn had inferred that she was available. But what did that mean in this day and age? Available for the next month? Or for whoever was smart enough to hook her like a beautiful fish?

“So you’ve lived in this oasis all your life?” Danica asked him. “I know Ashlyn has.”

“Since I was three,” Boyd answered thoughtfully, glancing at her sideways. “My mom died a year earlier. Dad was stationed here in the army. He remarried a divorcée and they had a baby girl. I think you know her.”

“Yes, I do.” Danica smiled. “You and Ashlyn were both army brats, then?”

“Yeah, guess you could say that.” Boyd cracked a grin. “And you’re from Chicago?” He tried to remember what few facts Ashlyn had given him.

“Originally from Lansing, Michigan,” Danica said. “I grew up as an only child, and my parents were never quite able to say no to me. But I moved to Chicago after graduating from Michigan State.”

“Oh, okay.” Boyd had visited the Midwest a couple of times and had no issue with it. He didn’t recall running into anyone as stunning as her, however. Probably because that was damned near impossible to imagine. “Looks like we’re here.” He pulled into the parking lot, eager to get inside and see what else he could learn about Ashlyn’s friend and what she had in mind during her visit to the island.

A couple of minutes later they were sitting at a window table. Danica tried to study the menu, but was too busy checking out Ashlyn’s brother. Can I help it if the guy is eye candy and happens to reside in paradise?

She forced her eyes back to the menu. “Any recommendations?”

“Try the imu chicken special,” Boyd said.

At this point, Danica could go for anything. “Will do.”

Boyd went with the Cajun shrimp. He had been aware that she was admiring the view. He took that as a compliment and was guilty of doing the same ever since he’d laid eyes on the lady. Still, he couldn’t quite wrap his head around the fact that she was here, given the circumstances.

“I hope you don’t take this the wrong way,” he began, “but have you ever done anything else this…extreme, for lack of a better word?”

Danica cocked a brow. “You’re talking about my coming to Hawaii?”

“Yeah, this swapping houses thing.”

“The answer is no,” she admitted. “I’ve never swapped houses with anyone before.” Was he criticizing her and Ashlyn? Or just her? “Why do you ask?”

How do I say it without sounding like an ass? “Well, to be quite honest, when Ashlyn first told me what you two were up to, I thought she was high on something. Never mind that she doesn’t do drugs. I couldn’t imagine she would just decide on the spur of the moment to trade lives with you—or anyone.” He decided to make his feelings seem more general than personal.

So he did have a chip on his shoulder, Danica realized. She’d sensed something was slightly off, in spite of his overall friendliness and hospitality, but had been hoping it was just her being oversensitive.

“Maybe you don’t know your sister as well as you think,” she suggested tartly. “The Ashlyn I know has always had an adventurous streak in her a mile long. This is just one example.”

Boyd acknowledged that when Ashlyn made up her mind to do something, she usually stuck with it and no one—certainly not him—could talk her out of it. So what was Danica’s excuse?

“What about you?” he asked her.

“What about me?”

“Aside from taking Ashlyn up on her challenge and the opportunity to come to Hawaii, what is it you hoped to achieve with this month-long vacation?”

She gave a humorless chuckle. “I didn’t come here with any game plan,” she said candidly. “Other than to simply let things happen as they may.”

“So no wild parties planned or anything like that?” Boyd made his voice sound lighthearted, but he was definitely not kidding around. Not that she seemed like someone who would invite a bunch of people over to make a mess of things and otherwise wreak havoc on the house and reduce its value in the process. But he needed to hear her say it, just to be sure, given that he had a direct financial stake in this, as well.

“I don’t give or attend wild parties,” Danica clarified. She wasn’t sure if he was merely testing her or serious about the question. Either way she felt insulted that he would ask, knowing practically nothing about her. Maybe that was the point. But Ashlyn certainly knew better. Or did he not respect his sister’s judgment? “As for my agreeing to come to Hawaii, it seemed like a good opportunity to get away from a hectic and not always fulfilling life in Chicago for a few weeks, so I took it. Is that so wrong? Or am I misreading you here?”

No, she was reading him correctly. And now he felt a bit silly about it. As though he had accused her of coming here with the intention of destroying everything they had built up. Maybe it was time he gave his little sister a bit more credit.

“I didn’t want you to misconstrue my words,” he said convincingly. “It was not my call to tell you or Ashlyn what or what not to do. I was only trying to make sense of it, as it’s not something I could ever imagine doing.”

“Then that’s your loss,” she said bluntly. “Why not put yourself out there sometimes and do something wild and unscripted? Life is too short to second guess every step of the way.”

Boyd chuckled, wondering what she thought of him now. Probably very little. As it was, he’d been guilty at times in his life of doing some wild and crazy things. Perhaps it was because of that he’d been more deliberate in his moves in recent years. “You drive a hard argument.”

“Just telling it like it is.” Danica gazed across the table. She wondered whether this was simply his way of being difficult for the sake of it or if her stay at the house he co-owned was going to cause problems. “For the record, I’m not here to make your life miserable. Or to try and take over the house. I just want to enjoy the sights, sounds, scents and flavor of Hilo while Ashlyn does the same in Chicago. And then I’ll be on my way as though I was never here in the first place.”

“Don’t leave on my part,” he said apologetically. “As I said, I was only trying to understand where you were coming from. Now I think I do. I hope you get everything you hoped for in making the long journey to the Big Island.”

For some reason, in spite of his earlier conviction, Boyd found that he wasn’t looking forward to the day when she went back to the mainland. At least not till he got to learn firsthand what other qualities she possessed besides beauty, brains and spunk. Maybe she would let him see just what these were, if he hadn’t already blown it.

* * *

By the time food was served, the tension in the air had lessened. Or so it seemed to Danica. She knew she’d been overly sensitive and it was all much ado about nothing. Surely Boyd couldn’t resent his sister’s friend being in town for some much needed rest and relaxation.

“So you’re a photographer,” Boyd said, wanting to get back to a normal conversation.

“Yes,” Danica proudly replied. “I’ve been at it for almost a decade and have the scars to prove it.”

“Sounds like you’ve paid your dues.” He forked shrimp and watched with interest as she ate. The sexy way Danica moved her lips turned him on.

“Yeah, I sure have.” She dabbed a napkin to her mouth. “But it’s all been worth it. I have a great client list and there’s no shortage of things to photograph.”

“That’s true, especially in Hawaii.” In his mind Boyd could see Danica at work snapping pictures just as she had when he first laid eyes on her. Watching her nice body twist and turn while searching for the perfect photograph was worth being on hand whenever he could. “Everything here is picture worthy.”

“I’ll bet.” She tasted her wine. “Ashlyn tells me you’re an investor.”

Boyd nodded. “My father left me and Ashlyn a small fortune. I turned it into a bigger fortune—mostly through stocks and more stocks, with an occasional piece of real estate.”

“Sounds great,” she said. “I own a few stocks, but have to admit I don’t follow the market very much.”

“Perhaps you should. Staying on top of it can make the difference between success and failure.”

“Guess you’re right.” She moved her fork around on her plate, using it to slice into the tender imu chicken. “Maybe I could get a little professional advice while I’m here.”

He grinned. “No problem. I’d be happy to take a look at what you’ve got and should have, knowing the market as I do.”

“That would be nice.” Danica leaned back. She was glad to see that it seemed like they could at least be friends during her stay. That would make Ashlyn’s day. Or was her sometimes devious friend hoping more might occur?

“On the side, I work as a tour guide,” Boyd told her proudly.

“Oh, really?” She tried to picture him in that capacity.

He nodded. “I love living on the Big Island with all it has to offer the locals and tourists. This seemed like a great way to stay in shape and add some adventure to my life, while also giving back to the island that has given so much to me.”

“How noble,” Danica said, impressed.

“Maybe you’d like to go on one of the tours while you’re here,” suggested Boyd.

“I’d love to. I’m up for pretty much any adventure that comes my way.”

“I like the sound of that.” He could find little fault in a beautiful woman who had an adventurous spirit, even if he’d initially been reluctant to receive her on the island with open arms. Now he’d love to wrap his arms around that slender body.

Tasting more wine, Danica felt courageous enough to say something that had been on her mind. “So Ashlyn tells me you’re quite the ladies’ man.” She was embellishing just a bit, but she wanted to see how he reacted.

Boyd couldn’t help but chuckle. That sounded like Ashlyn. Too bad it wasn’t true. Certainly not these days. “I wouldn’t go that far.”

“Just how far would you go?” she teased him. “What with all the gorgeous women they must have in Hawaii.”

I’d go as far as you wanted, if I were with you, he silently replied. Instead he said, “Guess it would depend on the lady. Yes, there are some pretty hot women here, but these days I’m not just looking for beauty or beauty with brains. I’m looking for a connection.”

“I can fully understand that.” If he only knew. She had found having a real connection with men hard to come by these days. Make that impossible. Obviously, he was in the same boat. And Ashlyn, too.

Boyd was intrigued that she seemed able to relate to his situation. “I take it you didn’t leave some dude behind who was mad as hell that you were going alone to paradise?”

Danica laughed. “I don’t think so. Most men aren’t that self-assured to let their women venture off to Hawaii without their company.”

“So you’re not seeing anyone?” He wanted to hear her say it, if only to satisfy his curiosity.

“I see a lot of people in my line of work and circle of friends,” she said lightly, “but I don’t have my eye on anyone at the moment.” Other than the gorgeous man she was gazing at right now.

Boyd grinned with satisfaction while he sipped his wine. The two of them did seem to be cut from the same cloth. Definitely something to keep in mind as she spent the next month in Hilo.

“Well, I guess we’d better get out of here,” he said. “Wouldn’t want to keep you up all night after traveling across the country to reach our shores.” He pictured them up till the wee hours of the morning, those long legs of hers wrapped around his waist as they made love like there was no tomorrow.

“Yes, I suppose I’d better get some sleep so I can have the energy to get through the rest of the trip.”

“I agree.” Boyd met her eyes, wanting to read into them more and more.

Danica wondered if the sexual innuendoes passing between them meant anything or if they were just plays on words. She, for one, could blame it at least partly on the wine. But what about the other part of her, that found the man as sexy as they came?

* * *

Boyd walked Danica up to the lanai. What he wanted to do more than anything was to sweep her up in his arms and take her to bed. Of course that would be a bit presumptuous of him, though the sexual chemistry that sizzled between them couldn’t be denied. That didn’t mean she was ready to have him jump her bones on day one.

“Ashlyn asked if I would show you around to help you get acclimated,” he said. “Tomorrow’s a good day for me, if you’re game.”

“I’m definitely game.” Danica flashed him a smile, happy to have her own personal tour guide. “What time?”

“Whenever you’re ready. Just get a good night’s sleep.”

“I intend to.” But she also didn’t want to waste too much time doing what she could do back in Chicago. “How does eight o’clock sound?”

“Perfect,” Boyd said. “I’ll see you then.”

“I’m looking forward to it.” She hoped she didn’t sound too eager, given that it wasn’t her intent to suggest it was him she wanted to see. Or maybe it was.

Though he knew it was the time to make his exit, Boyd was nevertheless honed in on Danica’s mouth, wanting badly to kiss her. Would it be crossing the line if he did? Or was it a line she wanted to be crossed?

“You probably have the most desirable lips I’ve ever seen on a woman,” he threw out.

Danica couldn’t help but laugh. “I think you may have had one glass of wine too many.”

“Be that as it may, I’ve never been more serious.”

“Looks like the charmer in you is coming out.” Ashlyn had warned her that Boyd could be extremely charming when he wanted to be.

“Does that mean I can see for myself if my theory is true?”

“Go for it,” she said, admittedly curious to see how he kissed. Something told her the man could back up his charms with sweet and tender action.

Boyd didn’t waste another second. He tilted his face and moved down onto her mouth with a kiss that wasn’t intended to knock the lady off her feet as much as to give her a taste of what he had to offer. His lips played with her soft ones, parting them slightly and enjoying every moment before ending the kiss abruptly.

Danica had to catch her breath. “Well, what did you think? Did I pass the test for the most desirable lips or not?” She hoped it wasn’t a letdown for him that she’d held back from giving the kiss her all, not wanting to get too carried away this early in their new friendship.

“You definitely passed,” Boyd declared. “With flying colors.”

“Flying colors, huh?” She chuckled, masking the tingling of her lips. “You’re a pretty good kisser, too.”

He blushed. “I try to do my part effectively.”

“And effective you are.”

“Ditto.” Boyd sighed. He needed to go before seducing her right there on the spot and having regrets later. She was, after all, his sister’s friend, and he needed to respect that. At least for this night. It would be up to both of them to see if there was any real fire to the sparks. “A hui hou, meaning ‘till we meet again.’”

“A hui hou,” Danica repeated as she went inside.

She touched her mouth and thought about the kiss. What was supposed to be a getaway with no certainty of romance was suddenly filled with the possibility of such. But she wasn’t about to get her hopes up, having done that too many times before. She would just wait and see if she and Boyd connected.

In the meantime Danica planned to make herself entirely at home in this palace that Ashlyn had turned over to her for a month.

* * *

Boyd wasted little time calling Ashlyn once inside his car.

She answered after two rings. “Do you know what time it is?” she asked sleepily.

“Sure do,” he said. At least in Hawaii. He figured he’d woken her up, but couldn’t wait to say this. “Sorry for disturbing your beauty sleep. Just thought you’d want to know that I’m cool with your friend being here.”

“Is that so?” Ashlyn’s voice perked up. “So you two have hit it off, just as I suspected you would.”

“I wouldn’t jump to the wrong conclusions,” Boyd told her, even though he was hoping the same thing. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t still intent on protecting that valuable piece of real estate they owned, seeing it as a big investment that would one day fetch a high price should Ashlyn ever decide to sell her share to him. “Let’s just say she seems like a nice woman, aside from also being gorgeous, from what I can tell so far.”

Ashlyn laughed. “Maybe next time you’ll listen to your little sister and not try to ruin things that are in your own best interest.”

He grinned. “I thought this was about you and Danica switching lives—not trying to play matchmaker.”

“Hey, whatever happens between you two is a fringe benefit,” she explained. “Just like I hope will be the case when I get together with Danica’s friend Hunter.”

“Hunter, huh?” Boyd was not so sure he wanted this dude to hunt after his sister, but he realized she was an adult and he had to trust her judgment just as she clearly trusted his.

“Yes, Hunter. We’re meeting tomorrow for lunch. I’ll let you know how it goes.”

“Spare me the details,” he said.

“So long as you do the same, should you and Danica decide to hook up.”

Boyd pondered the possibility. “My lips will be sealed, if things head in that direction.”

“Okay, now that it’s settled, mind if I go back to sleep?” Ashlyn yawned for effect.

“Go right ahead. Hope you have a good time tomorrow with Hunter.”

“I could say the same for you and Danica. I assume you’ve already made plans?”

He grinned crookedly. “I’m going to show her around a bit, per your suggestion. Other than that, there’s nothing special in the works.”

“If you say so,” she said. “Aloha.”

Boyd disconnected, laughing to himself at his sister’s overactive imagination when it came to his love life. In fact, he didn’t really have a love life at the moment. But then neither did Ashlyn. Did that make them two sorry siblings, or what?

Chapter 3

The next day Danica was up at the crack of dawn. In spite of what had been a long day before, she was eager to have some fun and adventure. Being able to do at least some of that with Boyd made her even more excited. She tempered that excitement, reminding herself not to have any unrealistic expectations where he was concerned. After all, the truth was that at the end of the day she wanted more than just a romp in the hay, or on the sand.

But she had also come to Hawaii with her eyes wide open, hoping to catch a fish of sorts, who would cause her heart to skip a beat and show some passion and promise in the bedroom. Could Boyd deliver in that regard? If so, then the future, if there was one between them, would work itself out.

Otherwise she was still up for a good time, and Boyd seemed to be more than up for the challenge. Or had he simply gotten a little carried away with his desire to kiss her last night and had all but forgotten it today? She’d find out soon enough.

By the time Boyd showed up, Danica had gotten better acquainted with the house, unpacked her belongings and had a light breakfast. In keeping up with island tradition, she’d dressed casually in a multicolored short-sleeve shirt, Bermuda shorts and sandals. She pulled her hair back into a ponytail.

Boyd liked what he saw as he appraised Danica. She fit right in with her attire, and stood out at the same time with sheer beauty that even in Hawaii was a treat to behold.

“Aloha kakahiaka,” he said. In case she didn’t know, he explained, “That’s good morning.”

“Good morning.” Danica blushed, thinking she needed to become more familiar with Hawaiian words to keep up with him.

“Ready to take a look around your new city?”

Danica certainly wished it was a permanent arrangement, as she imagined she could get used to this atmosphere in a hurry. But the clock was ticking with each moment and before she knew it, she would be back in Chicago and her real life. Meaning far away from the Big Island and Boyd Reed.

Glancing at him, she saw that he looked manly in a yellow polo shirt, gray shorts and gym shoes. A whiff of his spicy cologne appealed to her.

“I’m ready if you are,” she declared.

“Great.” Boyd looked around and saw that everything seemed to be in order. Ashlyn kept the place immaculate and it looked like Danica wanted to do the same during her stay. That certainly worked for him, though he’d never tell her that, now that things seemed to be on the right track in their new friendship.

In his car Boyd turned to Danica as she was buckling up. “Did you sleep well?”

“Yes, I did, thank you,” she answered. “Wasn’t too hard, all things considered.”

“I’ll bet.”

“How about you?” Danica pictured him asleep. And then she pictured him in bed, doing things other than sleeping.

“Yeah, slept like a baby,” he said. Not that he would’ve had a problem if she had been around to keep him wide awake.

“Good for you.” She smiled thoughtfully as they began to drive. “So where to first?”

“I thought we’d head downtown so you can familiarize yourself with what many consider the pride of Hilo.”

“Hmm…okay. Sounds interesting.”

“What has Ashlyn told you about the city, if anything?” Boyd asked.

“Not much,” Danica had to admit. “Mostly general stuff, like a few tourist attractions. Guess she wanted me to discover most things on my own.”

“That’s the best way to get to know Hilo,” he agreed. And I’m happy to do my part, so I get to hang out more with you.

They parked off Kamehameha Avenue and went on foot to explore the roughly ten-block downtown.

Boyd pointed out the historic Federal Building. “It was built way back in 1917,” he told her.

“Incredible.” Danica took a picture of the building.

“That’s the Pacific Tsunami Museum,” Boyd said a few minutes later. “It came about after devastating tsunamis in 1946 and 1960.”

“Can we go inside?”

“Of course.”

Later they stood before the Kamehameha Statue, honoring King Kamehameha I, who was the first chief to rule all the islands. Boyd took a picture of Danica beneath it, then flagged a passerby to take a picture of them together. For him it was an excuse to get close to Danica. He put his arm around her and smiled as the picture was taken. Danica felt the contours of Boyd’s rock-hard body as he hugged her and she him, barely able to concentrate on the picture as much as the man.

They finished the downtown tour with a short walk in Happiness Garden, a park that overlooked Hilo Bay and provided a stunning view of Hilo’s Black Sand Beach and the Mauna Kea Mountain; followed by a stroll along Banyan Drive with its magnificent banyan trees.

“I could take pictures here all day,” Danica laughed.

Boyd smiled, enjoying the sound of her voice. “I’m sure you could.”

“But I’ll show some restraint and see what else is out there.”

“Good idea.” He noticed an errant hair had fallen onto her brow, and took the liberty of brushing it off with his hand and smoothing it back. “That’s better.”

Danica blushed. “Where to now?”

“I was thinking we could grab a bit to eat—at my place,” Boyd suggested out of the blue. “Then we can check out a few more places that might interest you.”

“Sounds good to me.” Admittedly she was curious to see where he lived and how it compared to the house he owned with Ashlyn. Was it a typical bachelor pad? Or something more suitable for companionship?

* * *

Boyd drove into the Hamakua District, where he’d found the perfect house. Though he’d shared some female company there from time to time, for the most part it had been just him. Seemed as if no one could hold his interest for very long. He suspected that might change if Danica hung around for a while. But that didn’t seem very likely, as her life was in Chicago and he had little enthusiasm for either maintaining a long-distance relationship or giving up his enviable life in Hilo.

He made a right turn onto Old Mamalahoa Highway and after passing through a gated entry, drove by groves of Himalayan, Sumatran and Japanese bamboo on his property before coming upon the architectural delight he called home.

“Here we are,” he told Danica.

“I can see that.” She gazed with awe at the impressive landscaping and then at the house itself—an island-styled, single-story oceanfront home. “Can’t wait to see what the inside looks like.”

Boyd smiled, eager to show off his digs to the beautiful lady Ashlyn had brought to the Big Island. And into his life.

As they stood on the covered lanai, he said, “The house is a confluence of several architectural designs. For instance, this antique hand-carved mission door was made in Guadalajara, Mexico.”

“Nice,” Danica said, trying not to appear too overwhelmed.

Once inside they stepped onto decorative tile flooring in the foyer, which transitioned into Kurupayra hardwood throughout the house. Boyd took Danica on a walk-through of the spacious rooms, all with cathedral ceilings and bay windows. The furniture was a combination of leather and wood, with a couple of antique pieces seemingly thrown in for good measure. He even showed off his state-of-the-art fitness room.

“So this is where you work out?” Danica had wondered where that muscled body developed its form.

“Every day of the week, when I’m here,” Boyd said. He needed exercise as a stress reliever, not that he couldn’t think of other ways to work out that were more entertaining. Like making love to a gorgeous woman.

“You’re really dedicated to the cause,” she told him.

“Most of the time.” His eyes swept up and down her body, convinced she did something to be so lean and shapely. “You work out?”

“When I can. Mostly aerobics, swimming, walking and making use of an elliptical machine.”

She noted he had one.

“Feel free to use mine whenever you like,” Boyd told her, realizing he was extending an invitation to Danica to become even better acquainted with him in the process.

“I’ll probably take you up on that.” She imagined it would be fun to work out together—in more ways than one.

Boyd showed her his media room with all the latest gadgets, including a sixty-inch plasma television, music center and computer, and with a plush sectional and antique oak cabinets and tables.

“You really know how to go all out,” Danica said.

“Just wanted a great place to relax and enjoy entertainment.”

“Looks like you’ve got it.”

He led her to the very spacious master suite, entering through a Japanese 19th century Meiji-period door. There were shoji doors leading to an elegant bathroom and a fully equipped office. The room itself had large windows with incredible views of the landscape, along with a sunken conversation area with bamboo furniture and an Italian ceramic gas fireplace.

Danica honed in on the king bed surrounded by bamboo furnishings.

“Who does your decorating?” she asked him.

“Actually Ashlyn gets credit for much of what you see, along with my own vision,” Boyd said.

“Well, kudos to you both.”

He smiled. “Glad you like it.”

Danica looked at him. “How long have you lived here?”

“Bought the place two years ago.”

“You’ve obviously settled in quite nicely.”

“I’d say so,” he told her as he stepped closer. He’d love to kiss her again, only this time with more passion and promise. He gazed into her eyes and couldn’t help but go out on a limb by saying, “I’m starting to settle on you.”

Danica’s lashes fluttered. “Oh, really?”

“Yeah, really.”

Her heart skipped a beat. She was feeling it too and suspected he knew that. “You’re starting to work on me, as well.”

Boyd put his arms around her slender waist, drawing them together. “Maybe we need to do something about that.”

“What did you have in mind?” she asked hesitantly.

“Just this…” He held her cheeks and laid a smooth kiss on her full lips. Feeling no resistance, Boyd continued, quickly becoming aroused and loving the softness of her mouth beneath his.

His kiss was so hot, Danica nearly melted on the spot. In an entirely natural response she wrapped her hands around his head, enjoying the thickness of his dreadlocks as she tunneled her fingers through them. Her mouth opened, drawing Boyd’s lower lip within. She found herself sucking on it, tasting the man himself. It turned her on like crazy. As did the fact that she could feel his erection pressed against her, dying to come out and be put deep inside her where he would no doubt work his magic.

Though the notion of making love to him right here and now appealed greatly to her carnal instincts, Danica resisted the incredible ache between her legs. She wasn’t quite ready to go down that road with Boyd yet. Not till they knew each other a little better at least.

With every ounce of willpower in her, Danica pulled away from the most powerful, succulent mouth she had ever felt.

“I think we’d better slow down a bit here,” she said with a sigh. Otherwise they might never get out of his room until they’d gone all the way.

“You’re probably right,” Boyd stated, forcing himself to use self-control, even though her kiss left him hungry to explore the rest of her body. But that could come later, if she was of the same mind. He sensed she was, very much so. “Shall we head to the kitchen for lunch?”

“Good idea.” Danica felt flushed and was happy for the distraction of food. Another part of her, though, was surprised that he was able to turn it off so quickly after clearly being turned on. Was that how he managed to contain his libido? Or was he simply biding his time before she surrendered completely to his animal magnetism?

* * *

“This is the kitchen,” Boyd said, sweeping his arm to showcase the room. He thought about what a turn-on it would be to feed Danica and watch those sweet lips.

Danica stepped inside a kitchen most women would kill for. At least those who could cook. It was custom designed with travertine countertops, antique tansu cabinets, built-in titanium appliances and a stone floor. There was a walk-in pantry and a separate breakfast room.

“No wonder you saved it for last,” she said. “This is fabulous.” She wondered how often he had guests over.

“Certainly makes it easy to prepare a meal,” he admitted.

Danica regarded him. “So you’re a pretty good cook, I take it?”

“I can hold my own.” He smiled slightly. “Why don’t I see what I can put together for us?”

“I’d like to help,” she told him, wanting this luncheon date of sorts to be a joint endeavor.

“Then you can.” Boyd had no problem with her sharing in the food preparation. Indeed, he found that a refreshing change from some women he’d been involved with who didn’t seem to know their left from their right when it came to preparing even the most basic meals, much less something challenging.

Between the two of them they made a shrimp salad, and had it with leftover baked boneless chicken, macadamia nuts, fresh fruit and lemonade. They ate at a wooden table in the breakfast room.

Boyd admired Danica from across the table, enjoying her company while wondering why he’d never gotten to know Ashlyn’s longtime friend before now.

“Tell me more about you,” he tossed at her.

Danica lifted her eyes to his. “What would you like to know?” Truthfully she wanted to discover more about him, too.

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