He’s the best man for the job—and her heart!

Kellen Alexander is all set to take his rightful place in his family’s dazzling Beverly Hills hotel empire. But the aspiring architect finds himself up against a major obstacle…. Her name is Addison Evans, and she has the position Kellen wants! Worse, the petite beauty is arousing a scorching passion that could cost him his entire career.

On the fast track to success, Addison is determined to prove to the Alexanders she has what it takes. Her attraction to their sexy younger son could derail all her ambitions, especially after one night together leaves them both wanting more. Suddenly, the rules of the game are changing. And when something totally unexpected happens, their power plays could erupt in heartbreak. Unless Addison can convince Kellen that they should be on the same team—forever.

“What are you thinking about?”

His gaze landed on her face. “Do you really want to know?”

Addison thought she saw a whisper of something inviting in Kellen’s eyes. It was a look that said he wouldn’t mind a kiss, and she caught her breath as he bent down toward her. For just a minute she felt like a young woman coming home from a date, her chest filled with the anticipation of a sweet first kiss with a promise of something more to come.

Addison quickly backed up.

She wondered what his mouth would taste like, how his lips might play on her own. It would be the height of stupidity to allow a kiss to take place between them.

Yet she was powerless to resist.

His mouth covered hers hungrily.

A five-star kiss in a five-star hotel, his mouth soft and suggestive on her lips, his scent, the feel of his warm hands on her flushed cheeks. There was a moment where Kellen increased the pressure, where he shifted just a little, and she felt as if they were both lost in the moment.

She returned his kiss with a hunger that belied her outward calm. Burying her face in his neck, Addison breathed a kiss there.

When the kiss ended, she resisted the urge to touch the place where his lips had been. Her heart was racing, and Addison could feel her blood rushing through her veins. She was falling for Kellen.

JACQUELIN THOMAS

is an award-winning, bestselling author with more than fifty-five books in print. When not writing, she is busy catching up on her reading, attending sporting events and spoiling her grandchildren. Jacquelin and her family live in North Carolina.

Five Star

Desire

Jacquelin

Thomas

www.millsandboon.co.uk

MILLS & BOON

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Dear Reader,

Five Star Desire is the fifth book in the Alexanders of Beverly Hills series. This story features Kellen, the youngest son of Malcolm and Barbara Alexander. Kellen believes he is ready to tackle the Special Projects Director position. However, he finds that someone else has already been given the job and he’s slated for a lesser role in his father’s company. When Kellen discovers that Addison Evans is his boss, the two clash in the beginning, but eventually things between them turn passionate, as he is determined to find his happily ever after with her.

Best,

Jacquelin

Bernard, you are my best friend and the love of my life.

As always, thank you for being my #1 fan and supporter.

Contents

Dear Reader,

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 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 1

Kellen Alexander strolled briskly into the elegant living room of his parents’ Mediterranean-style home in Pacific Palisades.

“Good to have you home for good, little brother,” Dreyden said when Kellen greeted him at the front door.

“It’s good to be here. Hey, I’ve been thinking that you need a roommate.” Kellen loved living in Atlanta, but he was enjoying his reunion. At the age of twenty-six, he had just recently completed his master’s degree in architectural engineering and was thrilled to be done with school and back in California with his family.

Dreyden chuckled. “I don’t think so. I actually enjoy living alone.”

“C’mon...it’s not like I’ll be around much,” Kellen uttered with a sly smile. “I’ve got a lot of catching up to do with the ladies.”

Kellen toured the main floor, in search of the rest of his family. He took the stairs to the second floor. His oldest brother, Ari, was the father of three children—a pair of fraternal twins, one a boy and the other a girl, and another son. He was with his wife, Natalia, in one of the spare bedrooms, trying to get the twins, Christian and Crystal, to settle down. Kellen had seen their brother, Joshua, occupied in the family room playing a game on an iPad. Hearing the sound of laughter, Kellen went back downstairs where he found his brother Blaze and wife, Livi, settling down in the family room.

Kellen walked to the kitchen, where his mother and sisters were busy preparing dinner.

“Get out of here, little brother,” Sage ordered, pushing him away.

“I see you’re still bossy,” he responded with a laugh.

“And you’re still a pest,” Zaire interjected. “Go play guest of honor. We got this.”

They were trying to be secretive about the menu, but Kellen knew they were up to something. He had a feeling they were cooking up something special.

Malcolm Alexander cleared his throat, commanding everyone’s attention. “Everybody come in here.”

Kellen ventured into the family room with the others. “What’s going on?” he asked.

“Dad’s about to make a speech,” Sage whispered as she stood beside him.

“I feel so blessed to be surrounded by my children and their families,” Malcolm stated. “I’m so proud of all of you.”

Malcolm was the heir of the late Robert DePaul’s multimillion-dollar estate and chain of luxury hotel and spa resorts. Kellen was glad to see that his father had finally made peace with the discovery that his parents had kept the truth of his biological father a secret from him. For the majority of his life, Malcolm had grown up believing that Theodore Alexander was his father, but his mother had taken the truth to her grave.

“We love you, Daddy,” Zaire said.

He smiled. “I love all of you, as well. Today we are here to celebrate Kellen and his accomplishment. He graduated with honors.” Malcolm turned to him. “Your mother and I are very proud of you. There was a moment when we weren’t sure you were going to attend college, much less graduate school...” He suddenly broke into a grin. “But I’m happy to say that you proved us wrong.”

“I admit I partied a lot when I first went off to college,” Kellen confessed with a tiny smile, “but when you made me come home for a semester when I was a freshman—it changed my perspective, Dad. I didn’t see it back then, but it was probably the best thing you could’ve done for me.” He wrapped an arm around his mother. “I really appreciate your support and all those late-night talks, Mom.”

Barbara placed a loving hand to his cheek. “Your father is right. We are very proud of you.”

“Kellen, we’re all so proud of you, too,” Zaire interjected without preamble. “Now can we eat? I’m starving.”

Laughter rang out around the room filled with his family.

“C’mon,” Sage uttered. “She’s eating for two. When I was pregnant with Honor, all I could think about was food.”

Her husband, Ryan, nodded in agreement.

“Zaire, you don’t have to wait any longer, sweetie. Dinner’s ready,” Barbara announced when she returned from the kitchen.

Everyone followed her to the formal dining room.

Kellen not only felt good about being home, he was home for good and ready to take on the world—more specifically the Special Projects Director position for Alexander-DePaul Design Group. Kellen had had his eye on the employment opportunity since it posted. He was confident his father would give him the job.

“I see you made all of my favorites,” Kellen stated. “Thanks, Mom. I have to tell you that I’ve really missed your homemade biscuits, fried catfish and especially your collard greens.”

“Have you learned to cook anything outside of hot dogs and hamburgers?” Zaire inquired.

Kellen nodded. “I’m pretty good with breakfast foods. I can make some mean omelets.”

“That sounds good,” his younger sister said. “You can make me one for breakfast tomorrow morning.”

“Zaire, do you ever stay at your house?” he asked with a chuckle.

“Yeah, but when my husband’s out of town, I usually stay out here. Tyrese is leaving tonight for New York.”

Some unknown assailant had attacked Zaire over a year ago, and now that she was pregnant, her husband preferred that she stay with her parents whenever he was out of town. There were a few times when Franklin, the loyal and trusted head of security his parents had inherited after Robert’s death, stayed with her when she chose to remain home.

Seated at the dining room table, Kellen let his gaze wander around, landing on his parents and his siblings, before he sampled his food. “Mom...superb...”

Barbara smiled. “Thank you, dear.”

His gaze landed on Dreyden. Silently, he noted that his brother had lost weight in a relatively short period of time. When Dreyden had surprised him in Atlanta just a couple of months ago, he’d looked fine.

“Dreyden, what’s up with you?” Kellen inquired in a low voice after everyone settled down in the large family room after dinner. “I couldn’t help but notice that you didn’t eat much at dinner. To be honest, you don’t look like you’re feeling well.”

“I’ve just been really tired lately,” his brother responded with a slight shrug. “We just finished tax season, so I won’t be working late as much.”

“Why don’t you take a vacation?” Kellen suggested. “Go somewhere exotic.”

Dreyden smiled. “I’ve been thinking about that myself. Maybe I’ll see a travel agent next week and plan a trip.”

“Do it,” he encouraged. “You need a break away from work.” Kellen was worried about his brother. He had never seen him look so pale or exhausted.

He rose to his feet.

“Where are you going?” Dreyden asked.

“I need to talk to Dad about the Special Projects Director position at the Alexander-DePaul Design Group. I applied as soon as it became open, but I haven’t heard anything from human resources.”

“Why don’t you just enjoy being with the family, Kellen?” his brother suggested. “Think about work tomorrow.”

“I’m excited, Dreyden... I really want this job. I’ve been waiting on something like this since before I graduated.”

“I can see that, but just give it a couple of days. It’s better to get the job based on your own merits and not because of your last name.”

“I’ve spent all of this time in school so that I can prepare myself for this position,” Kellen stated. “I’ve earned it.”

“Hello, everybody.”

Kellen turned around to find Harold DePaul standing in the doorway with a young woman he assumed was his fiancée, Amy. He knew that the couple had met at Blaze and Livi’s wedding. Amy and Livi were close friends. “Harold, it’s good to see you.”

Harold and Amy were getting married in a couple of weeks. Kellen was initially surprised that he was engaged to an African American woman—especially after the way he reacted when his uncle left everything to his biological son—Malcolm Alexander. Kellen thought him a racist because of his initial reaction concerning his uncle’s relationship with an African American woman. However, he and many of the DePaul relatives had come to look past skin color. “Congratulations on your surviving grad school. I bought you a gift.”

“Thank you.”

He and Amy moved on to talk with Barbara and Malcolm.

“Harold looks very happy,” Zaire whispered.

Kellen agreed. “I never expected those two to hook up, but I can tell that they are crazy over one another. Talk about irony.”

“I’m glad he’s found someone,” Zaire responded. “William’s illness has been very hard on him.”

“I can’t imagine losing a brother...or a sister.”

“I know.”

Just then Livi walked into the room and made her way over to Harold and Amy. “Hey, you two...I’m glad you made it.”

Kellen walked over to his father and said, “Dad, I applied for the Special Projects Director position a couple of weeks ago. I think the job is perfect for me, but I didn’t get an interview for it. I did have a telephone interview with talent acquisitions, but it was for another position. Do you know what happened? I think they made a mistake.”

“Son, there was no mistake,” Malcolm said. “The director position has already been filled. Someone in-house was promoted. However, the architectural engineer position is yours. You’ll start in a couple of weeks.”

A shred of disappointment snaked down Kellen’s spine. “I really wanted the special projects position. I feel I’m qualified for management.”

“The person selected was more qualified for the position. You don’t have seven-plus years in experience.”

“I’m your son. Surely, you can override the decision to hire someone else.”

Malcolm met his son’s gaze. “What would you have me do, Kellen?”

“I have all of this education and you want me to work in a position that—”

“Let me stop you right there, son,” Malcolm quickly interjected as he held up his hand. “Kellen, you do have the education, but you are lacking when it comes to hands-on experience. There is nothing wrong with starting in an entry-level position and working your way up.”

Exasperated, Kellen argued, “Ari, Blaze and Sage didn’t have to do anything like that. As for experience, I’ve interned and worked with the largest architectural firm in Atlanta.”

“They didn’t just come to their positions with education—they also came with years of work experience.”

“I can’t believe this,” Kellen uttered in frustration.

“Honey, you can’t expect your father to just give you a position,” Barbara remarked blandly. “You have to earn it in the same manner as everyone else.”

“Dad can do whatever he wants,” Kellen responded. “The Alexander-DePaul Design Group is his company.”

“You are not ready, son.” His father gave him a reassuring smile. “Starting in an entry-level position is what you can expect from any company. It’s not a bad place to be—the salary is competitive and you will be able to work on some exciting projects.”

Kellen did not respond. He had come to Los Angeles fully expecting to be awarded the position. It had never occurred to him that his father would not give him the job.

“Dad’s right, little brother,” Dreyden interjected.

“You have your own firm and Zaire started her own company. Maybe I should do my own thing.”

“You can do that, Kellen, but what real experience do you have?” Dreyden questioned. “What can you really offer a client coming to you?”

There was tightening around his mouth, but he didn’t speak.

“I know this isn’t what you want to hear, but it’s what you need to hear. Learn your craft and then move up.”

“Why does everyone think I’m so incompetent?”

Dreyden released a small sigh. “I don’t think of you as incompetent, Kellen. You’re impulsive and you want things to happen immediately.”

“I can’t deny that,” Kellen stated.

“No point. I know you, little brother.”

“I’m ambitious.”

“There’s nothing wrong with being ambitious,” Dreyden said. “You need to recognize that your position is not exactly an entry-level one. You should be thankful because you could have ended up in the mail room.”

“I do have a job and I am grateful for that. It’s not exactly on the management track, but I guess I’ll have my chance to impress my new boss in a couple of weeks.”

* * *

Wisps of cirrus clouds played peekaboo with the early June sun. A steady wind, blowing in from the east, brought warming temperatures, and Addison Evans was looking forward to the summer. But for now, she needed to complete preparations for her new hires that were starting today.

She paced back and forth in her office. Why was she so nervous? Kellen Alexander was just another employee. He was on her team. The fact that she was anticipating his arrival with such emotion came as a complete surprise.

“You’re going to wear a hole in the rug,” her assistant said. She walked into the office with a stack of documents. “This is what you’ve been waiting for. They arrived late yesterday after you’d gone home.”

“Thank you, Devin.”

“I have everything set up in the conference room for the new-hire orientation. Samantha from human resources should be arriving any moment. She called from the car.”

“Great,” Addison murmured. “Thanks for getting everything ready.”

She sat down at her desk. “Let me know when the new hires arrive.”

“Will do,” Devin responded with a smile.

Kellen was the first to arrive.

“I’m Addison Evans.” She smiled and extended her hand, which quickly disappeared into his large one. She made a point of keeping her grip firm and looking Kellen in the eye, a habit she’d acquired early in her career, and one that had always alerted her about what kind of man she was dealing with. “Welcome aboard.”

“Thank you,” he responded politely.

Kellen held her gaze and didn’t seem surprised by the firmness of her grip. More important, he didn’t try to grind her hand into dust with his superior strength.

Both marks in his favor.

Addison studied him, poised there so straight and tall in his sharply tailored, black, designer business suit. He was devastatingly handsome, but she crushed that thought as soon as it entered her mind. His dark-eyed gaze made the already hot day sizzle.

She forced herself to look away from Kellen. The man had broad shoulders, slender hips and long legs that would easily turn a woman’s head in his direction. Addison released a soft breath of air before turning her attention back to him.

He was easily the sexiest man she had ever met, but it wasn’t just his looks that attracted her to him; it was the mystery and the intrigue that she found intoxicating.

She could not read him.

Kellen was smiling, but she silently noted that his smile did not quite reach his eyes. Addison had heard that Kellen was reputed to be very personable; however, she was not seeing this side of him at the moment.

“Where would you like me to sit?” he asked her.

She tore her gaze away and concentrated on his question. “Your office is two doors down. I’ll have someone take you there after a brief orientation.” Addison resumed control of her emotions. “I’ll walk you to the conference room. I have two other employees starting today, as well.”

“Great,” Kellen murmured.

She stole a peek at him. He did not look as if he really wanted to be there.

“How long have you worked here?” he asked suddenly.

“I’ve been with ADDG for almost five years. I interned here during grad school and was hired permanently after I graduated.”

“Where did you attend college?”

“Stanford,” Addison responded. “Here we are,” she said with a soft sigh of relief. “Your orientation will last until noon. We have a welcome lunch planned for one o’clock.”

Addison walked briskly away from the conference room longing for the safety of her office. She was far too aware of Kellen as a sexy man, when she needed to look at him objectively like an employee. Still, it was hard to stay objective when he focused those gorgeous gray eyes on her, when the clean male scent of him eddied in the air around her and his energy filled every corner of the room.

She had to find a way to block out her intense awareness of this man.

* * *

Kellen had not expected to be struck down by Addison’s beauty. The image formed in his mind was of a “plain Jane” type. Instead, her features were classic. Addison had high cheekbones that emphasized the slenderness of her face and her straight, perfect nose. She had a generous mouth, which he found incredibly sexy and her lips inviting.

She looked of average height; her curvaceous figure covered in a navy pencil skirt and jacket. Not a hair was out of place. Kellen admired the healthy glow of her butternut complexion.

While in her office, he glimpsed the many awards and accolades Addison had received throughout her career. Combined with the conservative navy suit she wore, he got the message. This woman was smart, dedicated and professional.

She had thrown him completely off guard. Kellen mentally shook himself and forced himself to pay attention to the human resources rep who explained the benefits of being an Alexander-DePaul employee.

Later, a walk through the open workstations revealed collaboration in action, which excited Kellen. He couldn’t wait to get started on his first project. He intended to impress Addison with his skill. Kellen noted there were groups of associates gathered in one area or another throughout. Although he had group projects during his college years, he preferred to work solo when it came to a project.

“ADDG employees participate in a wide variety of activities—from fun to philanthropic—the annual golf tournaments, charity fundraisers and local office parties, just to name a few,” the HR rep stated.

Afterward, Kellen joined the rest of the associates in a large area he assumed was the break room. For just a moment Kellen gazed at Addison, observing her as she interacted with her staff. She was a natural beauty, a woman comfortable in her own skin. Normally, when he glimpsed into the eyes of the women he came into contact with, he saw a hint of vulnerability in the depths of their eyes, but not in Addison’s gaze. She obviously didn’t need anybody to rescue her and besides, that wasn’t his role here. Kellen knew without a doubt that she could stand her ground and hold her own against just about anybody.

“So what do you think?” she asked when she joined him by a table laden with food.

“I notice that everyone seems to work in teams. Collaboration seems to be the theme throughout.”

“Collaboration means teamwork, and our integrative approach to project design is apparent in our staff relationships. Working with a variety of different professionals who share a common goal allows us to enjoy what we do and celebrate the satisfaction that comes from a job well-done.”

“I tend to work better alone.”

She looked up at him, meeting his gaze straight on. “You may feel this way now, but after you’ve worked on a few projects, I think you’ll feel different.”

Kellen disagreed, but did not vocalize his thoughts. “So what are some of the new projects your teams are working on?”

“ADDG took the lead on an exciting project in Denver,” Addison stated. “We are designing a new ski resort. The building is going to be a replacement for the preexisting Hummingbird Lodge. In just under a year of design time, we are on target to bring the plans through the necessary variance and permitting phases and to completion.”

“Sounds like an exciting project,” Kellen admitted.

“Your job will entail developing structural renderings starting from conceptual to detailed design stage using 3D AutoCAD and Personal Development Management System.”

He patted the backpack on his right shoulder. “I can’t wait to get started.”

Their eyes met and held.

She released a soft sigh, although he couldn’t tell if the sigh was of relief or apprehension. “I’m certainly glad to hear that,” Addison replied as she headed back toward the door. “I have to get to a meeting, but I’ll check on you later.”

Her steps were brisk and abrupt, almost as if she couldn’t wait to get away from him. Kellen reminded himself that no matter how beautiful she was, Addison Evans was a mystery he definitely didn’t need to explore.

* * *

Kellen carried with him an energy that seemed to pulse in the air around him, an energy that seductively drew her to him. Addison escaped into a conference room. But it was the way he stood, his head cocked to one side, an air of confidence about him which drew her like a moth to a flame. Maybe it was because she’d isolated herself for the past six months that Kellen touched a chord inside her.

She checked her watch.

Her meeting wasn’t scheduled to start for another ten minutes, but she needed time to regain her senses.

Addison cast her gaze outside the window, where a light breeze stirred the trees. She always loved the spring season, before the summer heat tightened its grip on Los Angeles.

As she heard the door open and then close, her thoughts snapped back to work.

Members of upper-level management slowly filled the room. Addison turned her attention to the meeting agenda.

Reluctantly, her thoughts traveled back to Kellen. When his gaze landed on her, he seemed to be trying to look inside her soul, which is what prompted Addison to break eye contact with him and leave so abruptly. It was really ridiculous, the kind of tension his very presence wrought inside her. She was extremely aware of Kellen’s maleness, when she needed to look at him as just another employee.

She didn’t know why, but she had a feeling her life was about to change dramatically. Addison just wasn’t sure if it would change for the good or the bad.

Chapter 2

Barbara walked outside to the patio where Kellen sat staring out at the picturesque landscape of the backyard and Olympic-size pool.

Feeling his mother’s presence, he glanced up but said nothing.

“How was your first day at ADDG? You got in so late last night, I didn’t get a chance to talk to you.”

“Spent most of the day in orientation,” Kellen responded drily. “I was able to get my office set up. I unpacked all of my books and magazines. I guess you could say that it was a good first day.”

She sat in the empty lounge chair beside him. “Honey, I know you’re disappointed about the management position, but your father made the right decision.”

He gave her a sidelong look. “Somehow I figured you would agree with him.”

She seemed taken aback by his response. “What is that supposed to mean?”

“Exactly what I just said,” Kellen responded. He was careful not to sound disrespectful. “Mom, you rarely disagree with Dad over anything. So this doesn’t surprise me that you’d side with him on this, too. Allies must present a united front, after all.”

“Son, I’m not siding with anyone,” Barbara stated. “In case you have forgotten, I’ve been in business for a while. If the decision had been mine to make—I would’ve made the same one.”

“I’ve done everything I could to earn your trust.” Kellen sighed in resignation. “What else do I need to do?”

“Nothing,” she responded.

Barbara’s warm brown eyes bored into his as she folded her hands in her lap—hands that were now adorned with a new wedding set. “This is not about trust, Kellen. This is a business decision and not a personal one. The fact that you haven’t realized this confirms that you are not ready for such a position.”

Kellen’s mouth tightened in response. He glanced over at the ring on his mother’s finger and said, “Blaze and I helped Dad pick that ring for you. I knew how much you loved emerald-cut diamonds.”

She smiled. “I figured as much. Malcolm would’ve just picked something more extravagant.”

“The one he had in mind was nice, but I told him that you wouldn’t like it.”

She reached over and gave his hand a gentle squeeze. “Son, keep an open mind. Learn the ropes and—”

“And maybe one day my chance will come,” Kellen finished for her. He rose to his feet. “Got it.”

“Don’t you dare walk away from me, young man.”

He turned to face his mother. “I’m not trying to be disrespectful, but I just don’t have anything else to say.”

Barbara merely raised an elegant eyebrow. “Fine,” she responded firmly. “Then we don’t need to discuss this anymore. It is what it is and you will have to adjust. Kellen, I know that you will because you are your father’s son.”

He glared at her, and she stared him down.

* * *

Addison met her best friend, Tia Browning, for dinner at the Cheesecake Factory in Beverly Hills. She had called her a week ago to tell her about the new position.

Dressed in a fashionable red-and-black pantsuit, Tia stood outside the restaurant waiting for her to cross the street. She switched her red leather tote from her left shoulder to her right.

“Hey, lady,” Addison greeted her with a smile.

They embraced.

“Congratulations on your promotion to director,” Tia said. “Girl, I’m so happy for you.”

Addison broke into a grin. “Thank you. I have to confess that I didn’t really think I’d get the job.”

“Dinner’s on me tonight,” Tia stated. “I just got a huge bonus from work so we’re celebrating.”

“A bonus. Congratulations to you.”

They were seated a few minutes later.

“I’m really excited about this new role,” Addison stated as she picked up her menu. “The only thing I’m a little nervous about is that a member of the Alexander family is working under me.”

“Really?” Tia pushed her menu to the side and leaned forward. “Which one?”

“Kellen,” she responded. “He’s the youngest son.”

A waitress who identified herself as Paula greeted them warmly as she pulled out a pen and paper to take their drink selections.

When she walked away, Tia continued their conversation. “I read somewhere that he was away at college on the East Coast.”

Addison picked up her menu. “He graduated last June and now he wants to join the family business.”

“Are you going to be able to concentrate with such a gorgeous man like that around? Girl, I have to tell you—that is one good-looking family.”

She chuckled. “He’s going to be my employee, Tia. Besides, I’m five years older than him.”

Paula reappeared with drinks for them. After setting them down on the table, she pulled out a pen and pad to write down their orders.

She disappeared around a corner and into a nearby wait station.

Tia took a sip of her wine. “I don’t know if I could do it.”

Addison laughed. “Regardless of how handsome he is, I’m not at all interested in mixing my love life with my business. You know that only leads to trouble.”

“There are quite a few workplace romances that work out.”

“I don’t know of any.”

“Yeah, you say that now...”

“I’m serious. I don’t want to deal with any drama in the office if things don’t work out. It’s not professional, either.”

“I don’t know, girlfriend. Kellen Alexander looks exactly like your type.”

“He may look like my type, but I’m not letting him get anywhere near me outside of work. I intend to focus on my job.”

“Tell me that after you’ve worked with him for about three months,” Tia said with a grin.

“There’s a fine line between romance and sexual harassment,” Addison stated.

“I doubt that Kellen is going to consider suing you.”

She took a sip of her iced tea. “I’m not taking any chances.”

“Like I said,” Tia uttered, placing her napkin across her lap as their food arrived. “Three months from now, we’ll see if you feel the same way.”

“I was once told that I’d never be CEO of a major corporation because I didn’t go for the jugular,” Addison stated. “At the time, I took that to mean I wasn’t tough enough, that I didn’t have what it took to play the power games at any cost. Well, he was right at the time. Other things were equally important to me and I did not want to spend my life—every waking moment—thinking about business and the power games I would have to play to make it in the big leagues. Then my mother died and everything changed for me. Tia, I’m not about to let Kellen Alexander destroy all the hard work it took to get where I am.”

* * *

Kellen was still upset over the job situation, and for the moment, he did not want to be anywhere near his parents. However, it was unavoidable because he was living in their house. This morning, he purposely stayed in his room until he knew they were gone. He knew that his parents religiously went on an early-morning stroll daily.

He was surprised to see Zaire seated at the breakfast table when he entered the kitchen. Kellen had no idea that his sister was there. He didn’t have dinner at home last night and had stayed out until he was sure his parents had retired for the evening.

“Good morning,” she said brightly.

“What’s so good about it?” he grumbled as he dropped down in the seat across from her. “What are you doing here, anyway? Don’t you have a house of your own? I know your husband is back in town. I talked to him last night.”

“What’s wrong with you?” Zaire asked, wearing a frown on her face. “I know you’re not a morning person, but you’re usually not so snappy. As for why I’m here—Mom and I are going shopping for the nursery.”

“I’m sorry,” Kellen responded. “I didn’t mean to snap at you like that. I’m just in a bad mood.” He and Zaire had shared an apartment while they were in grad school. She graduated a couple of years before him and decided to start a business of her own. She and Dreyden were the only two of his siblings that opted not to work in the family business.

“Clearly.” Zaire poured a glass of orange juice and then took a sip. “Why don’t you tell me what’s going on with you?”

“You know how badly I wanted the Special Projects Director position. Well, Dad gave it to someone else.”

She wiped her mouth on the edge of her napkin. “I told you that might happen, Kellen.”

“I really didn’t think Dad would do that to me.”

Zaire passed him the pitcher of orange juice. “You really shouldn’t take this so personally.”

“I can’t help it,” he responded as he poured the orange liquid into a glass. “This just shows me that Dad doesn’t think I can handle a position like that. Sorry, but I’m insulted.”

She reached for a slice of bacon and placed it on her plate. “Have you talked to Dad about your feelings?”

Kellen shook his head. “No. There’s no point, Zaire. He’s already made up his mind.”

She gave him a sympathetic look. “I’m sorry.”

He shrugged in nonchalance, then busied himself fixing a plate of food.

Zaire stated, “I’m glad you’re here because I’d like to talk to you about Dreyden.” She wiped her mouth with a napkin again. “I think there’s something going on with our brother.”

“I feel the same way,” Kellen responded. “I’m worried about him.”

“He’s losing so much weight, and he doesn’t seem to eat as much as he normally does. That’s totally not like Dreyden. That man loves to eat.”

“Did you say anything to him?”

Zaire nodded. “He just brushed me off by saying that he’s fine.”

“He did the same to me,” Kellen stated.

“I’m going to talk to Mama.” She finished off her bacon. “Maybe she can find out what’s wrong with him.”

“She may already know but just doesn’t want to betray Dreyden’s confidence.”

“You’re right, but I’m still going to say something to her.” Zaire took a sip of her juice. “How do you like the job so far?”

“It’s okay. I’ve just been doing some shadowing,” Kellen responded. He sampled the scrambled eggs.

“You don’t sound excited at all.”

“I’m not,” he replied truthfully. “You wouldn’t be excited either if you had to watch others doing what you want to do.”

“Kellen, I better not hear you complaining of having too much work or feeling overwhelmed in a few months, because I’m going to remind you of this conversation.”

“I won’t, Zaire. I have a job and I’m grateful, but I would like to at least do what I’ve been hired to do.”

“You need to learn patience.”

“I am,” he countered. “That’s why I took the job.”

“Kellen, I have to be honest with you. Your attitude really sucks,” Zaire stated. “I certainly hope you’re not going into the office like this.”

He considered her words. “You’re right. I’m going about this the wrong way.”

“It’s okay to be disappointed, but you can’t let those feelings take over.”

Kellen nodded in agreement. “I hear what you’re saying.”

“So what are you getting Harold and Amy for a wedding gift?” she asked.

He shrugged in nonchalance. “I don’t know. I haven’t even looked at the registry. I’ll probably just give them a gift card. What are you getting them?” Kellen finished off his toast.

“I am struggling with that, actually. The man is rich and has everything. I don’t have a clue what to get them.”

“Maybe we should ask Livi for some suggestions. I’m sure she’s come across some trinkets during her last buying trip.”

“Kellen, that’s a great idea. I’ll give her a call this morning.”

He finished off his breakfast, and then pushed away from the table. “I guess I’d better head to work.”

“Try and have a good day.”

“I’ll give it a shot.” Kellen broke into a grin. “You have a good one, too.”

Ten minutes later, he was in the car and driving into Los Angeles. He had a couple of technical training classes on his agenda for today. Kellen didn’t mind the training sequence; he enjoyed it. However, it was his appetite, making him hungry to get started on a project.

Might as well get this out of my mind, he thought. Addison was not going to allow him to work on anything until after he completed his training sequence.

She’d announced that she would not be in the office today until after lunch because she had a couple of off-site meetings. Kellen felt a thread of disappointment. He appreciated beauty and she was one stunning woman.

Addison was all business, though. Normally, he knew within minutes if he’d made a connection with a woman. Kellen could tell when a woman was attracted to him, but with his boss—he couldn’t get a good read on her.

Not that he was looking to have a relationship with her. Kellen didn’t really want to deal with problems on the job that a liaison could bring.

Chapter 3

By the time Saturday arrived, Kellen was more than ready to enjoy the weekend after a week of training classes and observing his coworkers as they worked on various projects.

Harold and Amy’s wedding would be a great distraction.

A few years ago his family had been an embarrassment to their DePaul relatives, but they had finally managed to come together. Kellen was grateful. His father had often told them that they were stronger as a family. He agreed.

As a team, Malcolm and Harold were a force to be reckoned with. Harold had great ideas and vision for the future. It was Harold’s idea to expand the Alexander-DePaul brand into other countries.

He gazed at the two-story, Cape Cod-style venue overlooking the ocean with an architect’s eye. Harold and Amy had chosen the Swan Manor in Manhattan Beach for their wedding. It was the perfect choice for them, Kellen decided after overhearing his mother say the couple favored beautiful gardens and the beach.

He followed the stream of guests to the back of the house where cocktails were being served by a waitstaff dressed in black pants and bow ties with crisp, white shirts, amid bougainvillea, koi ponds and lush greenery. Kellen glimpsed the Pacific Ocean in the backdrop of the garden.

“This is very nice,” Kellen heard Zaire remark. She and her husband arrived within seconds of him and Dreyden.

“Leave it to Harold to invite any and everyone on L.A.’s social register.” He took a sip of his wine.

Dreyden chuckled. “Looks like he invited all of Hollywood, as well.”

Kellen agreed. “The big jewels are definitely out of the safe today, and there is more couture out here than on the entire third floor of Neiman Marcus.”

When time drew near for the ceremony to start, Kellen and his family made their way inside one of the elegant banquet rooms that was filled with light from French windows.

His mother dazzled in a royal purple Oscar de la Renta gown. Sage mingled nearby in a black-and-white Ralph Rucci haute couture gown from Paris while Zaire wore a turquoise-colored gown designed by Vera Wang with Cartier turquoise-and-diamond jewels.

Livi was the matron of honor. She walked up, looking lovely in a champagne gown with a train. “Has Blaze arrived?”

“I haven’t seen him,” Kellen responded.

“He should be here by now.”

“Did you try to call him?”

She nodded. “It’s going to voice mail.”

He could see that she was worried, so Kellen told her, “You go back and tend to the bride, Livi. I’ll hunt down your husband.”

Her lips turned upward. “Thanks.”

Blaze arrived ten minutes later. “I heard there’s supposed to be around seven hundred people at the wedding.”

“Your wife was looking for you,” Kellen stated. “You should call her.”

He looked concerned. “Was she upset?”

Kellen laughed. “No...just worried.”

“I left my phone at home,” Blaze explained.

Kellen pulled out his phone. “Call Livi and let her know that you’re here. She’s dealing with enough, I would imagine, as the matron of honor.”

Blaze agreed.

“Hey, baby, I’m here. I left my phone at the house by accident.”

Kellen walked away to give Blaze some privacy as he talked to his wife. Mostly all of his siblings had found love, and he was happy for them. At this point in his life, he was not looking for a serious relationship. He wanted to focus on his career.

Inside the lavish mansion, Kellen noted that three large banquet rooms were converted into three distinct and equally chic rooms: one resembled a Parisian backdrop for the ceremony, another served as a luxury lounge and the third was the massive grand ballroom where the reception would be held. Golden lovebirds were situated among thousands of votive candles throughout.

Kellen sat down beside Dreyden, pulling at his bow tie. “I can’t wait to get out of this tuxedo.”

“I know what you mean.”

Guests were seated while being entertained by a harpist.

Kellen and Dreyden were joined by the rest of their family and DePaul relatives, taking up the first five rows on the groom’s side.

Near boredom, he released a soft sigh when the processional began.

Twelve bridesmaids. Kellen hoped whoever he married didn’t want a high-society wedding. He preferred something short and simple. He never understood why people wanted to spend so much money on a ceremony that lasted thirty to forty-five minutes at most.

Once the bride made a dramatic entrance, the ceremony didn’t take long, much to Kellen’s relief.

In the ballroom, after the pastor gave the blessing, more than a hundred perfectly choreographed attendants served dinner. After the bride and groom finished eating, they navigated around the room, pausing at each table to greet their guests.

When they reached Kellen and Dreyden, both men stood up.

“Congratulations, Mr. and Mrs. DePaul,” Kellen stated as he gave Amy a hug.

“Thank you,” they said in unison.

Dreyden embraced her and said, “Keep this man in line.”

“Don’t worry, she does,” Harold responded with a big grin. “I’m glad you all could be here to share this day with us.”

“I wouldn’t have missed it.”

Dreyden nodded in agreement.

The happy couple moved on to Zaire and Tyrese, who were seated at the same table along with Sage and Ryan.

“They really look good together,” Kellen said in a low voice. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen Harold so happy.”

“She’s good for him,” Dreyden responded.

Harold’s sister, Meredith, walked over with her husband. “Hello, cousins.” Kellen hadn’t had a chance to speak with her until now because she was also a bridesmaid in the wedding.

He broke into a smile. “Marriage looks good on you both. I’m sorry I couldn’t be here for your wedding.”

“You were in the middle of your exams. We understood,” Meredith told him. “Thank you for the beautiful gift you sent.”

They talked a few minutes more before joining his siblings at the table. Dreyden and Kellen walked over to the bar to get something to drink.

“You know the pressure is about to increase for you to find a wife,” Kellen told his brother.

Dreyden laughed. “What about you? You’re single.”

“I’m just starting out in my career, though. You have your own business and your own place. Sorry, but the focus is going to be on you, bro.”

“I’m not seeing anyone seriously, so it might be a while.”

Kellen laughed. “Mom’s going to be so disappointed.”

His brother chuckled.

The band, La Chapelle Rhénane Orchestra from Paris, kept the dance floor packed all night long.

Kellen finished the last of his champagne. “You know...I don’t think I’ve ever seen Harold dance.”

Dreyden glanced over at his brother and said, “It’s his wedding day. He’s having a good time.”

“So what’s going on with your love life?” he asked Dreyden. “I can’t believe you haven’t met anyone special.”

“I’ve been so inundated with work that I haven’t had time to build a relationship. However, there is this girl that I think is special. She’s a workaholic just like I am. Only she’s in Hong Kong. Her job transferred her there eight months ago.”

“Bro, you need some downtime.”

“I know. I am going to take some time off in a couple of months. I’m thinking about going to Hong Kong.”

“I think you should, especially if she’s special to you,” Kellen advised.

“If I do that, I’m not sure I’ll have a restful vacation.”

He laughed. “I guess you’re right about that.”

“What about you?” Dreyden inquired. “Have you left anyone special behind in Atlanta?”

Kellen shook his head. “I’m not looking to get serious with anybody. I want to get my career on track first.”

He accepted a second glass of champagne from a passing waiter. “There is a sea of gorgeous women here,” he said. “It’s been a while since I’ve seen so many in one place like this.”

Dreyden agreed.

They stopped to chat with a couple of friends who were in attendance. Kellen smiled at the daughter of the couple he was conversing with. She smiled back and gave a little wave, but it was Dreyden who seemed to have captured her attention.

When they walked away, he said, “She was pretty. I saw the way she kept looking at you.”

Dreyden chuckled. “Maybe I should ask her to dance.”

“I think you should,” Kellen encouraged. “Go on...have fun.”

He watched his brother make his way back over to the young woman. They made their way to the dance floor.

“What’s this?” Blaze asked as he joined Kellen at his table. “I guess Dreyden’s feeling much better. He’s out there dancing.”

“He needs to have some fun. The man does nothing but work.”

“What about you? When was the last time you had a date?”

“It’s been a while,” Kellen responded. “I didn’t want to be tied to anyone since I was moving out here right after graduation.”

“So you’re ready to break some hearts in Los Angeles.”

He grinned. “I’m definitely not going to get mine broken.”

“I can’t wait to meet the woman who steals your heart, Kellen.”

“Hey, I can’t, either. She’s really going to have to be something special to get me to want to settle down.”

* * *

Kellen drove to Dreyden’s condo the next day. He was looking forward to watching a basketball game with him. He was a Lakers fan while his brother favored the Atlanta Hawks.

“Hey, I just got off the phone with Ari,” Dreyden announced. “He’s bringing pizza and beer.”

“Great,” Kellen replied. He took note of Dreyden’s grayish pallor and the dark circles beneath his eyes and the way his clothes hung loosely on his frame. “Hey, when was the last time you saw a doctor?” he inquired.

“I think it’s been about two years,” Dreyden responded with a slight shrug. “I think I may have a virus or something, but I don’t think it’s anything serious.”

“I don’t agree,” Kellen responded. “This has been going on for a while now. I’m not the only one who has noticed how much weight you’ve lost, and that you haven’t had much of an appetite lately.”

“The whole family has said something.” Dreyden was quiet for a moment. “If it’s that noticeable, then I guess it’s time for a checkup, at least.”

“Make the call to the doctor’s office.”

“Enough about me,” Dreyden said as he settled back in his chair. “Let’s talk about you. How was your first week on the job?”

Kellen shrugged in nonchalance. “It was okay. I spent most of the day in technical workshops and the rest getting familiar with some of our current projects. I haven’t been able to touch anything yet.”

“So what do you think of the new Special Projects Director?”

“When did you find out that Addison was getting the position?” Kellen asked.

“I think Ari may have mentioned it a couple of weeks ago.”

“Why didn’t you tell me?”

“Dad didn’t want us to say anything,” Dreyden responded. “He wanted to be the one to discuss it with you.”

Kellen gave a short laugh. “There was no discussion. Dad straight out told me that he had given the job away. He didn’t think that I could handle the position.”

Dreyden took a long drink of his bottled water. “You’re still upset with him, I see.”

Shrugging in nonchalance, Kellen responded, “I don’t agree with his decision, and I never will.”

“Dad wasn’t trying to hurt you.”

“That may not have been his intention, but he did,” he stated. “He clearly has no faith in my abilities.”

“You’re taking this the wrong way.”

“I don’t know any other way to take it, Dreyden. Dad didn’t even consider giving me a chance to prove myself. He just gave the position to someone else.”

“Kellen, do you honestly think that you could have gone to another company and walked into a director position with no experience?”

“I’m really tired of hearing that. Maybe I should put some feelers out there and see,” he countered.

Dreyden scratched his arm before folding them both across his chest. “Maybe you should. Who knows...it may work out for you.”

Kellen eyed his brother for a brief moment, noting the way he was scratching his skin.

“Dad would probably see it as a betrayal of some sort.”

“No, I’m pretty sure he would understand,” Dreyden uttered. “Dad has always allowed us to make our own choices. You’re free to do whatever you want.”

“I don’t know what to do,” Kellen said with a sigh of frustration.

“I would give the job six months,” Dreyden stated. “If you still feel the same way, then start sending out your résumé.”

He nodded in approval. “I can do that.”

“I think I need to change the soap I’m using or something. My skin is dry and itchy.”

Kellen chuckled. “I’ve told you about buying that cheap stuff. You need to stop being so frugal.”

“And you need to start putting away some money for the future,” Dreyden advised. “God bless the child that’s got his own.”

“You don’t have to worry about me, big brother. You, Blaze and Ari have been good role models for me. I’ve learned from all of your mistakes.”

“But have you learned from your own?”

Kellen laughed. “The jury’s still out on that.”

* * *

“Charles will provide leadership for all team members throughout the life of this project to ensure continuity, meaningful collaboration and clear communication,” Addison stated Monday afternoon. “Kellen, I would like for you to shadow the team.”

He gave a slight nod, but did not respond otherwise.

Kellen had been with the company for almost three weeks now and hadn’t been able to touch a project. She could tell that he wasn’t happy with her decision, but this project was too important to the company—Addison was not willing to risk placing a novice on something like this.

After the other employees left the room, she said, “I get the feeling that you’re upset about my decision to just let you shadow the team.”

“I’m here to work. All I’ve been doing since training ended is shadowing this person and that person.”

“I understand that you’re ready to jump in and get to work, however, you need to observe a few projects first.”

“You saw my portfolio,” Kellen uttered with a hint of arrogance. “You know what I can do. Is all this necessary? Why can’t I learn by actually working on something?”

“This is a major project...”

“Oh, I get it,” he responded. “You’re afraid I’ll make a mistake and it’ll reflect badly on you. This is about you.”

She responded coolly, “This isn’t about me at all.”

“You don’t have to worry about me tarnishing your sterling reputation, Addison. I’ll shadow the team as you decided, but I’m not about to let you think I’m okay with it.”

Addison sat there, her cheeks on fire but trying desperately to appear calm, refusing to let Kellen see just how upset she was. “Kellen, I shadowed for a month before I was given a small project to work on. Just be patient.”

“I hope you don’t plan on having me shadow for a month.”

She folded her arms across her chest. “Actually, I was thinking it might be a good idea.”

“You can’t be serious.”

Addison met his gaze. “I am very serious about this, Kellen. Let me be clear. I’m not going to let you touch anything until I know that you’re ready.”

“I hear you, boss,” he uttered before walking away.

She could not believe his gall. If she’d been a man, there was no way that Kellen would talk to her this way. Clearly, he didn’t like having a female in charge. Some men believed that female managers were emotional and leadership-ability lacking. She knew that some of her male employees felt that way. Well, she wasn’t going anywhere. Addison led her teams with a firm hand, while being open to their thoughts and opinions.

In a way, Addison understood Kellen’s desire to get to work. She had been the same when she started, but not as arrogant. He had a lot to learn about the specific technical parts of the job—things he wouldn’t have learned in school. Kellen was very talented and he was intelligent. Still, there was so much he had to learn about his job.

* * *

Kellen sighed in frustration as he made his way home. Addison was just as bad as his father. Apparently, neither one of them had any faith in his skills. He’d spent the rest of his day at the office sitting in a conference room listening as a team of engineers discussed a project he wanted in on. It had been a struggle for him to just sit there quietly and contribute nothing.

At home, Kellen changed into a pair of sweats and a T-shirt. He needed to work out some of his aggravation.

“I suppose you’re still angry with me,” Malcolm said when he entered the exercise room.

Kellen shook his head. “I’m not angry, Dad. I’m just really disappointed with the way things turned out.”

“I understand that. Do you want to talk about it?”

“It won’t change anything,” he responded. “So there’s really nothing for us to discuss.”

“Your mother made roast chicken for dinner,” Malcolm announced. “Will you be joining us?”

“I’m going to have dinner out, but I won’t be out late,” Kellen answered. “I’m in the mood for Italian.”

Malcolm stood in his path. “Son, I don’t like this distance between us. I’m sorry that you’re so disappointed and upset. It’s not what I wanted for you.”

“How did you expect me to feel, Dad?” he questioned, meeting his gaze.

“I knew that you would be disappointed, Kellen. It just didn’t occur to me just how much you wanted the position, but even if it had—I stand by my decision.”

“Dad, I accepted the position offered to me and I’m grateful to have a job, period. I know that you believe this is the best career path for me, but I don’t agree.”

“You’re right. I do believe this is the best career path for you,” Malcolm responded. “In time, you will feel the same way.”

Kellen smiled. “We’ll see, Dad.”

“Why don’t you stay and have dinner with us? Your mother would love to spend some time with you.”

“What about you?”

“I would like that, as well.”

“I’d like that, too,” Kellen confessed. He was tired of being angry and he hated the distance between them. It was time to accept what he could not change and just move on.

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