The Tycoon and I

Safe in the Tycoon’s Arms

Jennifer Faye

The Tycoonand the Wedding Planner

Kandy Shepherd

Swept Away by the Tycoon

Barbara Wallace

www.millsandboon.co.uk

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Table of Contents

Cover

Title Page

Safe in the Tycoon’s Arms

About the Author

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

CHAPTER SIXTEEN

CHAPTER SEVENTEEN

EPILOGUE

The Tycoon and the Wedding Planner

About the Author

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

CHAPTER THIRTEEN

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

Swept Away by the Tycoon

About the Author

Dedication

CHAPTER ONE

CHAPTER TWO

CHAPTER THREE

CHAPTER FOUR

CHAPTER FIVE

CHAPTER SIX

CHAPTER SEVEN

CHAPTER EIGHT

CHAPTER NINE

CHAPTER TEN

CHAPTER ELEVEN

CHAPTER TWELVE

Copyright

Safe in the Tycoon’s Arms

Jennifer Faye

In another life, JENNIFER FAYE was a statistician. She still has a love for numbers, formulas and spread-sheets, but when she was presented with the opportunity to follow her lifelong passion and spend her days writing and pursuing her dream of becoming a Mills & Boon author, she couldn’t pass it up. These days, when she’s not writing, Jennifer enjoys reading, fine needlework, quilting, tweeting and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. She lives in Pennsylvania with her amazingly patient husband, two remarkably talented daughters and their two very spoiled fur babies otherwise known as cats—but shh… don’t tell them they’re not human!

Jennifer loves to hear from readers—you can contact her via her website: www.JenniferFaye.com.

For Viv.

Thank you for being such a good friend over the years.

Your helpful advice and unending support are deeply appreciated. Here’s to the future of possibilities.

CHAPTER ONE

A DEAFENING CRACK of thunder rumbled through the darkened house. Kate Whitley pressed a hand to her pounding chest. She’d hated storms since she was a little kid. A brilliant flash of lightning sent shards of light slashing across the hallway while rain pelted the window.

Mother Nature certainly had a wicked sense of humor. Actually, it seemed as though life as a whole was mocking Kate. Absolutely nothing was going according to plan, no matter how hard she fought to put things right.

Her fingers pushed against the cold metallic plate on the swinging hall door. Inside the kitchen, the glare from the overhead light caused her to squint. What in the world was going on? She could have sworn she’d turned everything off before going upstairs. Hadn’t she?

She sighed and shook her head. Her mind must be playing tricks on her. The long nights of tossing and turning instead of sleeping were finally catching up to her. And it couldn’t have happened at a worse time. In a few more hours, she had to be fully alert. There were decisions only she could make—lifesaving decisions.

If only she could get a little shut-eye, she’d be able to think clearly. But first, Mother Nature had to quiet down. No one could rest with all this ruckus.

It didn’t ease her nerves being away from home, even if she was staying in a New York City mansion. This place was nothing like her two-bedroom, ranch-style house in Pennsylvania. Though this oversize house contained some of the most breathtaking architecture, there was something missing—the warmth that made a building more than just a place to hang your coat, the coziness that made it home.

In a big city where she barely knew anyone, she and this house had a couple of things in common—being lonely and forgotten. Somehow it seemed like fate that she’d ended up in this deserted mansion. A warm, loving home had somehow always eluded her, and just when she thought she’d made one of her own, it too was about to be snatched out from under her.

Sadness weighed heavily on her as her bare feet moved silently across the kitchen tiles. The coldness raced up through her pink painted toes to her bare legs and sent goose bumps cascading down her arms. Spring may have brought warmer days, but the nights were still chilly. She rubbed her palms up and down her arms, willing away her discomfort. Perhaps her long T-shirt wasn’t the warmest choice for this soggy night, but with her living out of a suitcase, her choices were quite limited.

She yawned and opened the door of the stainless-steel refrigerator. She hadn’t had any appetite until now. With so much riding on this upcoming meeting, she’d ended up with a stress headache for most of the day. But back here ensconced between these quiet, peaceful walls, the pain had loosened its vicelike grip.

Now she needed something to ease her hunger pangs. Other than a few meager groceries she’d placed in there earlier, the glass shelves were bare. The friend who’d let her stay here free of charge said the owner was out of town and wouldn’t be back anytime soon. From the empty cabinets to the dust-covered bedrooms, Kate deduced no one had lived here in quite a while.

With an apple in hand, she filled a glass of water. She’d just turned off the faucet when she heard faint but distinct footsteps. The hairs on the back of her neck rose. Either this place had some mighty big rats...or she wasn’t alone.

“Stop right there!” boomed a male voice.

So much for the rat theory.

Her heart lodged in her throat, blocking a terrified scream. Who was this man? And what did he want with her? Her lungs started to burn. Was he a thief, a desperate junkie...or worse?

She struggled to suck air past the enormous lump in her throat. A nervous tremor in her hand caused droplets of water to spill over the rim of the glass. Why had she put herself in such peril by making the rash decision to stay in this deserted house alone? After all, what did she know about her newfound friend? Not much. They’d only met a week ago. The older woman had seemed so nice—so understanding in Kate’s time of need.

She wondered if a scream would carry to any of the neighboring houses on the block. Probably not. This house came from an era when structures were built with thick, sturdy walls. She was on her own.

“You shouldn’t be here.” She fought to keep her voice steady. “This place has a burglar alarm. It won’t be long until the police show up. I haven’t seen your face. You can escape out the back and I won’t tell anyone.”

“I don’t think so. Turn around.”

Not about to let this stranger know how much he frightened her, she placed the glass on the counter, leveled her shoulders and took an unsteady breath. When she went to turn, her feet wouldn’t move. They were stuck to the floor as though weighted down in concrete.

A crescendo of thunder reverberated through her body. The house plunged into darkness. Kate bit down on her bottom lip to keep a frightened gasp bottled up.

Don’t panic. Stay calm.

Could this really be happening? What had she done to piss off Fate and have it turn on her? Hysterical laughter swelled in her throat. With effort, she choked it down. It wouldn’t help anything for this man to think she was losing it.

Drawing on every bit of courage she could muster, she forced her feet to move. Once fully turned around, she squinted into the dark shadows but could only make out the man’s vague outline. Who was he? What did he want with her?

Then, as though in answer to her prayer, the power blinked back on. When her vision adjusted, she found herself staring at a bare male chest. What in the world? Her wide-eyed gaze dropped farther past his trim waist but screeched to a halt upon the discovery of this stranger’s only article of clothing—navy boxer shorts.

This night was definitely getting stranger by the second.

She couldn’t resist a second glance at her sexy intruder. He definitely wasn’t a kid, having filled out in all the right places. She’d only ever seen defined muscles like his in the glossy pages of magazines, and this guy would qualify with his washboard abs. He must be around her age, maybe a little older.

When her gaze rose up over his six feet plus of sexiness, she met a hard glint in his blue-gray eyes. He obviously wasn’t any happier about discovering her than she was of stumbling across him.

“What are you doing here?” The stranger’s deep voice held a note of authority as though he were used to commanding people’s attention.

“Wondering why you’re standing in my kitchen.”

The frown lines on his face etched even deeper. “This is your place?”

Technically no, but she wasn’t about to explain her unusual circumstances to Mr. Oh-So-Sexy. She merely nodded, affirming her right to be there.

His brow arched in disbelief.

Who was he to pass judgment? When she pressed her hands to her hips, she realized he wasn’t the only one scantily dressed. With the hem of her worn but comfy shirt pinched between her fingers, she pulled it down as far as the material would allow. Instinct told her to run and put on something more modest. But in order to do that, she’d have to cross his path. Not a great idea.

Her gaze strayed back to the doorway. Sooner or later she’d have to make her move. She wanted to believe he wasn’t there to hurt her—wanted to accept the notion that there was some crazy explanation for the nearly naked man standing in front of her, but her mind drew a blank. She glanced back at him, taking in his blondish-brown wavy hair tousled as though he’d just woken up. And his lack of apparel left no room for doubt that he was unarmed.

“Don’t look so panicked. I have no intention of hurting you.” His deep voice was as smooth and rich as hot fudge. “I just want some answers.”

She stuck out her chin. “That makes two of us.”

“I guess you should start explaining.” He looked at her expectantly.

Kate crossed her arms. He wasn’t going to boss her around. She had every right to be here. Then an ominous thought came to her: Who was to say Connie hadn’t made a similar offer to this man? But wouldn’t it have crossed her friend’s mind that this would create an awkward situation to have two strangers—a man and a woman—alone in the house?

As she kept a wary eye on him, she noticed something familiar about him. The thought niggled at her. She couldn’t put her finger on where she’d seen him before, probably because the only thing keeping her on her feet right now was adrenaline. She needed sleep. Desperately. But how would she get this man to put on some clothes and go away?

* * *

“No more stalling.” Lucas Carrington’s patience was worn razor thin. Tired of talking in circles, he cut to the chase. “Who are you? And what are you doing here?”

Her lush lips pursed as her eyes narrowed. “My name is Kate Whitley and I have every right to be here—”

“Impossible. More likely you’re homeless and broke in here seeking shelter from the storm.”

Kate’s chin tilted up and her unwavering brown gaze met his. “I’m not homeless. In fact, I’m an interior designer and a darned good one, too.”

She did have an innocent girl-next-door look about her, but he knew all too well that things were never quite what they seemed. “Are you trying to tell me you broke in here because you had this overwhelming desire to redecorate the place?”

Her thin shoulders drew back into a firm line. Her threadbare cartoon T-shirt pulled snugly across her pert breasts. He swallowed hard. Okay, so maybe his first assessment of her hadn’t been quite right. Gorgeous. Sexy. Curvaceous. Those were much more fitting descriptions.

She continued to glare at him, seemingly oblivious to the fact her demeanor was more alluring than intimidating. And like some hormone-fueled teenager, he found himself unable to turn away from her tempting curves.

“There’s no need to sound so condescending.” Her voice filled with exasperation.

With effort, his gaze lifted to meet hers. “I’m calling the police. They can deal with you.” But there was a wrinkle in his plan—his cell phone was in the other room and the landline in the kitchen had been disconnected ages ago.

“Go right ahead.”

Her confident tone surprised him. Did she expect her beauty to get her out of this mess? Or was she attempting to pull a con job on him? Not that any of it mattered. He didn’t have a problem calling her bluff.

“You seem fairly certain you won’t get in trouble—”

“I won’t.”

Lucas was having a hard time focusing on the conversation given that his unexpected visitor was standing in his kitchen with nothing on but a T-shirt, which clung to her shapely curves and exposed her long, long legs. He was definitely beginning to understand why she might rely on her looks. And if he kept staring, this could get embarrassing for both of them.

He forced his gaze to her face, not that it was any less distracting. Was she wearing makeup? Or was her skin naturally that smooth and creamy?

Even more troubling than how beautiful he found her was the way she reminded him too much of the past—a past that had nearly destroyed him. Not so long ago another beautiful woman had stood in that spot. She’d made him promises but ended up breaking each and every one of them. His jaw tightened. The last thing he needed was this stranger’s presence to dredge up memories he’d fought so hard to seal inside. He refused to let it happen.

Refocused and clear about his priorities, his gaze returned to her warm brown eyes. She stared directly at him. Pink stained her cheeks, but she didn’t glance away. She stepped forward, using the kitchen island as a shield. It was far too late for modesty. Her sexy form was already emblazoned upon his memory.

Stay focused. Soon she’ll be gone. One way...or the other.

He cleared his throat. “Okay, you’ve got my attention. Why won’t you get in trouble?”

“I have permission to be here. Temporarily, that is. You know, while the owner is out of town.” Kate’s eyes narrowed, challenging him. She certainly was confident. He’d give her that. “And now it’s your turn to do some explaining. Who are you?”

“My name’s Lucas.”

“Well, Lucas, I assume you must know Connie, too.”

His gaze sought out hers and held it. “Connie? Is that who let you in here?”

Kate nodded as hope sparked in her eyes. “Connie Carrington.”

He had liked it better when he thought Kate was a squatter looking for a warm place to sleep. “To be sure, describe Connie.”

“Short. Brunette. Sixtyish. Very sweet and generous. She has a friendly smile and volunteers at East Riverview Hospital.”

“That’s her.” It still didn’t prove Kate was telling the whole truth, but it was sure looking that way.

“Here’s the thing, Connie obviously offered me this place first. And I don’t think us sharing the house is going to work.”

How dare this woman—this stranger—kick him out of his own house? He opened his mouth to give her a piece of his mind but then closed it. Obviously she didn’t recognize him, a small wonder after that ridiculous magazine article earlier in the month had named him Bachelor of the Year. His quiet life hadn’t been the same since then.

Kate was a refreshing change from the headline seekers and the husband hunters. Maybe if this were a different time under different circumstances, he’d welcome this beautiful intrusion. But right now all he wanted was to be left alone.

A clap of thunder rattled the windows. Kate jumped. She obviously wasn’t as calm as she’d like him to believe. Perhaps they both needed a moment to gather their thoughts. He certainly could use a minute or two to tamp down his unwanted attraction.

“This conversation would be a little less awkward with some more clothes on. I’ll be right back.” He started out of the room, then as an afterthought he called over his shoulder, “Don’t go anywhere.”

Lucas strode from the room. His teeth ground together. He didn’t want this woman here. He never had company and he preferred it that way. In fact, the less time he spent here, the better he liked it. When he’d asked his aunt to look after the place, he’d never expected her to turn it into a B and B. What in the world had she been thinking?

Maybe his aunt had planned for him to never find out about Kate. After all, he wasn’t even supposed to be home for another week. But one untimely setback after another at the future site of Carrington Gems’ expansion in San Francisco had ground construction to a halt.

Still, it was more than losing money hand over fist due to bureaucratic red tape that had him cutting his trip short. He put a stop to his thoughts. He wasn’t ready to contemplate the devastating situation he’d faced before catching his cross-country flight home.

And the last thing he needed was to return home to find a half-dressed woman making herself comfortable in his house. The image of her bare legs teased his mind, clouding his thoughts.

He cursed under his breath and pulled on the first pair of jeans he laid his hands on. But if he was going to stay focused, his beautiful interloper needed to cover up. He grabbed a heavy robe that should modestly cover her and give him some peace of mind. With a T-shirt in hand for himself, he rushed back to the kitchen clutching both articles of clothing.

“Here.” He held out the robe to her. “Put this on.”

Her wary gaze moved to his outstretched hand and back. It was then that he got a close-up view of her heart-shaped face and button nose. His thoughts screeched to a halt when he spied the dark shadows beneath her eyes. Sympathy welled up inside his chest. Not so long ago, he’d worn a similar look. It hadn’t happened by missing a night or two of sleep. In fact, it’d been the worst time of his life. His gut told him that Kate had a devastating story of her own.

He’d always been good at reading people. It was what helped him run Carrington Gems and hire a reliable staff. So why had he immediately jumped to the wrong conclusion about Kate?

Had his experience with his ex-wife jaded him so badly that he wasn’t even willing to give this woman the benefit of the doubt? Or was it the fact she was standing in this house—a place so filled with pain and loss?

Kate’s cold fingertips brushed over the back of his hand as she accepted the robe. His instinct was to take her hands in his and rub them until they were warm. But he resisted the temptation. She wasn’t his guest...his responsibility.

While she slipped on the robe, he stepped back, giving her some space. He pulled the shirt over his head. Now they could have a reasonable conversation.

Fully clothed, he glanced up, finding Kate’s brows furrowed as she stared at him. He followed her line of vision to a large hole in his jeans above his knee as well as the army of white smudges marking up both legs. He really should consider tossing them, but they were just so comfortable. Wait. Why should he care what this woman thought of him or his clothes? After tonight he’d never see her again.

Kate shoved up the sleeves on the robe and crossed her arms. “What do you propose we do?”

In any other situation, he’d show her to the door and wish her well. After all, she wasn’t his problem. And being drawn in by her very kissable lips and the memory of how that threadbare shirt hugged her curves was a complication in his life that he just didn’t need.

But her pale face with those dark smudges beneath her eyes dug at his resolve.

And he couldn’t dismiss the fact his aunt had sent Kate to stay here. Not that his aunt didn’t help people on a daily basis, but she knew this house was off-limits to everyone. That meant Kate was someone special. Now he really needed to speak to his aunt, but first he had to make things clear to Kate.

“There’s something you should know. This is my house.”

CHAPTER TWO

KATE EYED UP Mr. Oh-So-Sexy’s faded T-shirt and threadbare denim. Even her ratty old jeans were in better condition. Did she look gullible enough to swallow his story that he was the owner of this mansion? That would make him wealthy. Very wealthy. And he sure didn’t look the part.

“Why should I believe you own this house?”

He frowned. “Because I’m Lucas Carrington. Connie’s nephew.”

His unwavering tone gave her pause. She studied his aristocratic nose, piercing blue eyes and sensual lips. The wheels in her mind began to spin. No wonder he seemed so familiar. During her many hours at the hospital, she’d ended up thumbing through one magazine after the other. It was within one of those stylish periodicals that she’d skimmed over an article listing this year’s most eligible bachelors.

Lucas Carrington had been named Bachelor of the Year. And he had been by far the steamiest candidate on the list. And that had been before she’d garnered a glimpse of his ripped abs. Her mouth grew dry at the memory. She instantly squashed the thought.

The reality of the situation at last sunk in. That man—the hunk from the popular magazine—was standing in front of her in his bare feet. And she was accusing him of being an intruder. This had to be some sort of crazy, mixed-up dream.

“I see my name has rung a bell.” Smugness reflected in his captivating eyes. “Perhaps my aunt mentioned me.”

The fact he’d been holding that ace up his sleeve the whole time instead of introducing himself up front annoyed her. She wasn’t about to fold her hand so quickly—even if she had been beaten already.

She conjured up her best poker face. “Actually, Connie went to great pains not to mention you. She merely said the owner was out of town for an extended period. In fact, when I saw the condition of this place, I didn’t think anyone had lived here in years.”

A muscle twitched in his cheek as his gaze moved away. “I only need a couple of the rooms. Even when I’m in town, I’m not here much.”

“I see.” What else could she say? That it was a bit strange to live in a mansion filled with cobwebs and covered in a blanket of dust? But who was she to judge? She was living out of a suitcase, and by the end of the month, she would be technically homeless. The thought of being adrift with no place to call home sent her stomach plummeting. But she could only deal with one problem at a time.

Lucas shifted uncomfortably. “Why do you keep looking at me strangely?”

“I’m trying to decide whether I should believe you. I mean, I wouldn’t expect such a wealthy man to wear...umm, that.” She pointed at his tattered jeans.

Even though she knew that he was in fact Lucas Carrington, she didn’t want to let on just yet. After all, he hadn’t readily taken her word that she wasn’t a squatter. Why not let him see what it was like not to be believed?

He shrugged. “So they’re old jeans. It doesn’t mean anything.”

“I don’t know. This could all be an act. How am I to know that you aren’t pretending to be the owner? Maybe I should call the police and let them sort this out.”

Instead of the angry response she’d been anticipating, the corners of his mouth lifted. Was that a smile? Her stomach somersaulted.

“I guess I deserve that. Wait here.” He set off in the same direction he’d gone to grab his clothes and the robe he’d loaned her.

The scorching hot image of him in those boxer shorts flashed in her mind. Her pulse kicked up a notch or two. If Lucas wasn’t already wealthy, he could make a fortune as an underwear model. She’d be first in line to buy the magazine.

Still a bit chilled, she snuggled up in the robe, noticing the fresh scent of aftershave. She lifted the plush material to her nose, unable to resist inhaling even deeper. Mmm...

“Is the robe okay?” His smooth, deep voice filled the room.

“Umm...yes.” She smoothed the lapel. “I was just admiring its...its softness.”

He nodded, but she wondered if he’d caught her getting high off his very masculine scent. No man had a right to smell that good or look that hot with his clothes on...or off.

He skirted around the kitchen island and headed for her. Kate held her ground, all the while wondering what he was up to.

“Here.” He flipped open a black wallet. “This should clear things up.”

Her fingers slid across the worn smooth leather. She really didn’t need to see his driver’s license, but she had started this, so she might as well follow through.

She glanced at the photo of a neatly groomed man in a suit and tie. Definitely Lucas, but the spiffed-up version. The funny thing was she liked him in his worn-out jeans and sloppy T-shirt as much if not more than his business persona.

“So now do you believe me?” he asked with a tone of smug satisfaction, as if he’d just one-upped her.

She didn’t like him thinking that he’d gotten the best of her.

“I don’t know.” She held the ID up beside his face, hmm-ing and hah-ing, as though trying to make up her mind. “There’s definitely a resemblance, but I’m not sure.”

He yanked the card from her hand and stared at it. “Of course it’s me! And that’s my address...this address.”

At last he’d fallen off his cool, confident edge. A smile pulled at her lips. The action felt so foreign to her after the past few stressful months, but the lightness grew, erupting into laughter. The more she laughed, the deeper Lucas frowned. It had been so long since she’d had an occasion to laugh that she didn’t want it to end. It felt so good. So liberating. So freeing.

His brow arched. “Have I amused you enough?”

Her cheeks started to ache and she forced herself to calm down. After dabbing both eyes, she gazed up at him. “Sorry about that. But you don’t know how much I needed that laugh.”

His brows rose higher, but he didn’t ask why and it was just as well. She wasn’t about to spill her sorrowful tale to this stranger. In fact, she suddenly felt guilty for her outburst. Not because it was at Lucas’s expense. He was a big boy who could take a little ribbing. It was the thought of her little girl in the hospital that sobered her mood. Under the circumstances, Kate had no right to smile, much less laugh.

If the hospital staff hadn’t invoked their stupid policy, she’d still be there—sitting by Molly’s bed or haunting the halls. But the nurses had insisted she needed some rest so she didn’t wear herself out.

“Hey, what’s the matter?” Lucas stepped closer. His hand reached out as though to touch Kate’s shoulder, but then he hesitated.

She blinked back the rush of emotions. “I’m fine. I’ll just get my things and get out of your way.”

His hand lowered to his side as he glanced around the room. “Where exactly are your things?”

“Upstairs.”

“But those rooms aren’t fit for anyone. I dismissed the maid service as soon as... It doesn’t matter. The only important thing is keeping you out of that mess.”

“It isn’t so dirty now.” At the shocked look on Lucas’s face, she continued. “Or at least the room that I’m staying in is mostly clean.”

“What room?” His face creased with worry lines.

A crack of thunder sounded, followed by the lights flickering. Kate wrapped her arms around herself. “The one at the end of the hall.”

His shoulders drew back in a rigid line as his brows gathered in a dark, intimidating line. “Which end?”

Kate pointed straight overhead.

His shoulders drooped as he let out a sigh. “What in the world was my aunt thinking to send you here?”

Kate had wondered the exact same thing, but she’d come to the conclusion that Connie had only the best intentions...even if they were a little misguided. Now it was time to move on.

* * *

Lucas watched as Kate snuggled deeper in his robe. A resigned look etched across her weary features as the dark circles made her eyes appear much too large for her face. She reminded him of a puppy who’d been kicked to the curb and forgotten.

His thoughts rolled back in time to the day when he’d found a stray pup and brought it home. Everyone but his aunt had told him to get rid of the filthy beast. Aunt Connie had been different. She could see what the others couldn’t be bothered to look at—the puppy’s need to be loved and cared for. More than that she recognized Lucas’s need for something calming in the upheaval that was his life.

Lucas brought his thoughts up short. Kate wasn’t a stray puppy. She was a grown woman who could care for herself. He had enough problems. He didn’t need to be embroiled in someone else’s. He should wish her well and be done with it.

A loud boom of thunder shook the very floor they stood on. Kate wrapped her arms around herself as her wide eyes turned toward the window. This storm was showing no signs of letting up. Definitely not a night to be out and about.

If only he knew why his aunt had sent her here....

Kate turned and started down the hall.

“Wait.” Unease mounted within him as he realized what he was about to do.

“For what?” Kate asked, stepping back into the kitchen.

He noticed how the rest of her short dark brown hair was tucked behind each ear as though she’d been too busy to worry about what she looked like. The concept of a woman going out in public without taking great pains with her appearance was new to him. This mystery woman intrigued him and that was not good—not good at all.

But more than that, he’d witnessed how every time it thundered, she jumped and the fear reflected in her eyes. He couldn’t turn her out into the stormy night—especially when he suspected she had nowhere else to go.

Going against his better judgment, he said, “You don’t have to leave tonight.”

“Yes, I do.”

“Would you quit being so difficult?”

She glowered at him. “But you just got done telling me that you wanted me out of here right away. You’re the one being difficult.”

He inwardly groaned with frustration. “That was before. Give me a moment to speak with my aunt.”

“I don’t see how that will change anything. Unless you’re still worried that I’m a liar and a thief.”

“That isn’t what I meant.” He jerked his fingers through his hair. “Just wait here for a minute, okay? In fact, sit down. You look dead on your feet.”

Her eyes narrowed. Her pale lips drooped into a frown. He’d obviously said the wrong thing...again, but darned if he knew what had upset her. Maybe it was mentioning how tired she looked. In his limited experience with women, they never wanted to look anything less than amazing, no matter the circumstances.

When Kate didn’t move, he walked over and pulled out a chair at the table. “Please sit down. I won’t be long.”

He stepped inside the small bedroom just off the kitchen, which at one point in the house’s history had been the domestic help’s quarters. Lucas now claimed it as his bedroom—not that he spent much time there. His cell phone was sitting on the nightstand next to the twin bed.

He selected his aunt’s name from his frequently called list. His fingers tightened around the phone as he held it to his ear. After only one ring, it switched to voice mail.

“Call me as soon as you get this.” His voice was short and clipped.

He couldn’t help but wonder where she might be and why she wasn’t taking his call. Would she still be at the hospital doing her volunteer work? He glanced at the alarm clock. At this late hour, he highly doubted it.

With his aunt unaccounted for, he’d have to follow his gut. He’d already determined Kate wasn’t a criminal. But what would he do with her? Sit and hash out what was bothering her to see if he could help? Certainly not.

He rubbed his hand over his stubbled jaw. He didn’t want to get pulled any further into her problems. No matter what her circumstances were, it had nothing to do with him. Come tomorrow, she’d have to find other accommodations.

Still uncomfortable with his decision, he stepped back into the kitchen. Kate was seated at the table. Her arms were crossed on the glass tabletop, cradling her head. He must have made a sound, because she jerked upright in her seat.

Kate blinked before stretching. “Did Connie confirm what I told you?”

“Actually she didn’t—”

“What? But I’m not lying.”

“No one said you were. But my aunt isn’t available. So how about we make a deal?”

A yawn escaped her lips. “What do you have in mind?”

“I’ll give you the benefit of the doubt, if you’ll do the same for me.”

Kate was quiet for a moment as though weighing his words. “I suppose. But what does it matter now?”

“Because you and I are going to be housemates for the night.”

“What? But I couldn’t—”

“Yes, you can. Have you looked outside lately? It’s pouring. And it’s late at night.”

Her lips pressed into a firm line as she got to her feet and pushed in the chair. “I don’t need your charity.”

“Who says it’s charity? You’d be saving me from a load of trouble with my aunt if she found out I kicked you to the curb on a night like this.”

Kate’s hand pressed to her hip, which was hidden beneath the folds of the oversize robe. “Are you being on the level?”

She didn’t have any idea what it was costing him to ask her to stay, even for one night. This place was a tomb of memories. He didn’t want anyone inside here, witnessing his utter failure to keep his family together.

But there was something special about her—more than the way that he was thoroughly drawn to her. There was a vulnerability in her gaze. Something he’d guess she’d gone to great pains to hide from everyone, but he’d noticed. Maybe because he’d been vulnerable before, too.

“You don’t look too sure about this.”

He was usually much better at hiding his thoughts, but the dismal events of the day combined with the lateness of the hour were his undoing.

“I’m not. Let’s just go to bed.” Her drooping eyelids lifted and he immediately realized how his words could be misconstrued. “Alone.”

CHAPTER THREE

THE SUN HAD yet to flirt with the horizon when Kate awoke to the alarm on her cell phone. Though she’d only snuck in a few hours of sleep, she felt refreshed. Her heart was full of hope that today her most fervent prayer would be answered.

It will all work out. It has to.

As she rushed through the shower, the what-ifs and maybes started to crowd into her mind. Finding a cure to her daughter’s brain tumor had been rife with negative diagnoses. That was why they were here in New York City—to see a surgeon who was willing to do the seemingly impossible. But what if—

Don’t go there. Not today.

With her resolve to think only positive thoughts, she pulled on a red skirt and a white top from her suitcase. The light tap of the continued rain on the window reminded her of the night before and meeting Lucas Carrington. He definitely presented a distraction from her attack of nerves. She wondered if he’d be just as devastatingly handsome in the daylight. She tried to convince herself that it’d been the exhaustion talking, that no man could look that good. But she’d seen the magazine spread with him shaved and spruced up in a tux. He really was that good-looking. Which raised the question: What was he doing living here in this unkempt, mausoleumlike house?

Kate proceeded down the grand staircase, with her suitcase in one hand and her purse in the other. She hated the fact that she would never learn the history or secrets of this mansion. This would be her last trip down the cinematic steps. She paused to take one last look around.

She was in awe of the house’s old-world grandeur. Her gaze skimmed over the cream paint and paused to inspect the various paintings adorning the walls. Her nose curled up. She knew a bit about art from her work as an interior designer and these modern pieces, though not to her liking, would still fetch a hefty chunk of change at auction.

Even though the current decor didn’t match the home’s old-world elegance, she still saw the beauty lurking in the background. In her experience, she’d never found such charm and detailed work in any of the newer structures. Sure, they were all beautiful in their own unique ways, but this mansion was brimming with personality that only time could provide. She’d be willing to bet that if the walls could talk they’d spin quite a tale. She was certain that given the opportunity to rejuvenate this place, she could learn a considerable amount about its history. But she’d never have that chance.

With a resigned sigh, she set her suitcase by the front door before heading back the hall to the kitchen. She couldn’t shake the dismal thought of Lucas turning a blind eye to the house’s disintegrating state and letting the place fall into utter disrepair. Who could do such a thing? Was it possible he didn’t realize the real damage being done by his neglect?

If the man took the time to walk upstairs once in a while, he’d notice the work that needed to be done. Some of the repairs were blatantly obvious. It was a little hard to miss the drip-drip-drip last night as the rain leaked through the ceiling of her bedroom. She’d used a waste basket to collect the water. Maybe she should say something...

No. Don’t go there. This house and Lucas are absolutely none of your business.

She paused outside the kitchen door and listened. No sounds came from within. She wasn’t so sure she was up to facing him in the light of day after getting caught last night in her nightshirt. Still she refused to just slip away without thanking him for his generosity.

She pushed the door open and tiptoed into the room, hoping not to disturb him since his bedroom was just off the kitchen. Now if only she knew where to find a pen and some paper to write a note.

“You’re up early.”

Kate jumped. It took a second for her heart to sink back into her chest. She turned to find Mr. Oh-So-Sexy sitting off to the side in the breakfast nook with the morning paper and a cup of coffee. Yep, he looked just as delicious in the morning. Now she’d never get him off her mind.

She moved to a bar stool and draped his robe across it. “I didn’t expect you to be up so early.”

“I’m a morning person.”

His intense stare followed her. What was up with him? She nervously fidgeted with the Lucky Ducky keychain she kept around as a good luck charm.

When she couldn’t stand to be the focal point of Lucas’s attention any longer, she faced him. “Why do you keep staring?”

“It’s just you don’t look like the same woman I met last night.”

“Is that your attempt at a compliment?”

“Actually it is. You see, my brain doesn’t work very well this early in the morning until I finish my first cup of coffee.” He held up a large blue mug. “But if you’d like me to spell it out, you look radiant.”

Had she heard him correctly? Had a man, a drop-dead gorgeous hunk, just said she was radiant? Radiant. The word sounded as sweet as honey and she was eating it all up. Heat swirled in her chest and rushed up to her cheeks, but for that one blissful moment she didn’t care.

“Umm, thanks.” Her hand tightened around the keychain. “I’m all packed up.”

“What’s that in your hand?”

She glanced down, realizing she was squeezing the rubber duck to the point of smashing it. “It’s just a keychain. No big deal.”

He nodded in understanding.

“Do you have any more coffee?”

“I’ll get you a cup.”

He moved at the same time she did and they nearly collided. Kate froze, but not before she caught a whiff of his intoxicating male scent. He had on a light blue button-up with the sleeves rolled up and the collar unbuttoned. His hair was combed but still slightly damp. And his face was clean-shaven. He looked like a man ready to conquer the world.

Her heart tripped in her chest as she pictured them chatting over a morning cup of coffee and bagel. He’d tell her what he had on tap for the day and she’d tell him about her plans.

Lucas cleared his throat and pointed. “The cups are in the cabinet behind you.”

She had to get a grip and quit acting like a high school student with a crush on the star quarterback. The best way to do that was to make a fast exit before she made a complete fool of herself. “On second thought, I don’t have time for coffee.”

“It’s awfully early to be in such a rush. Is something the matter?”

“Nothing’s wrong.” She crossed her fingers behind her back like she used to do when she was a kid and her father asked her if she’d cleaned her room before allowing her go outside to play with her friends.

Lucas nodded, but his eyes said that he didn’t believe her. She never had been good at telling fibs. That’s why her father had caught her every time.

A sense of loss settled over her. What had made her think about that man after all this time? She grew angry at herself. As far as she was concerned her father was dead to her. She certainly didn’t miss him.

Maybe being alone in a new city had gotten to her more than she thought. It didn’t help that she’d witnessed the supportive clusters of families at the hospital while having no one by her side. That must be it.

Stifling the rush of unwanted emotions, she made a point of checking her wristwatch. “If I don’t leave now, I’ll be late.”

“But you haven’t even eaten. Don’t let me scare you off.”

“You haven’t. I just have things I must do.” She walked over to the doorway and paused. “By the way, did you ever speak to your aunt?”

“No. I think it was too late last night and she had her phone switched off. I’m sure she’ll call soon.”

“I understand.” But Kate still wanted that little bit of vindication. The chance to flash him an I-told-you-so look. “Thank you for letting me spend the night. By the way, there’s some food in the fridge. Help yourself to it.”

And with that she started down the hallway headed for the front door. She had no idea where she’d find a cheap place to stay tonight. All but one of her credit cards was maxed out since she’d been forced to give up her job to travel with Molly to the long list of specialists. She dismissed the troubling thought. There were other matters that required her attention first.

“Hey, wait!”

Kate sighed and turned. She didn’t know what else they had to say to each other. And she didn’t have time to waste. “Surely you aren’t going to insist on searching my luggage, are you?”

“Are you always so feisty in the morning? Or are you just grumpy because you skipped your caffeine fix? I know that first cup does wonders for me. See, I’m smiling.” His lips bowed into a ridiculous grin.

She rolled her eyes and shook her head. She honestly didn’t know what to make of the man. His personal hygiene was impressive, but other than the kitchen his house was a disgrace. And last night he was crankier than an old bear, yet this morning he was smiling. He was one walking contradiction.

Lucas held out his hand. “Let me have your keys and I’ll pull your car up to the door so you don’t get soaked.”

“I don’t have one.” She’d left her car in Pennsylvania, figuring city driving was not something she wanted to attempt.

“Did you call a taxi?”

“I don’t need one.” She pulled a red umbrella from her tote. “I’m armed and ready.”

“Have you looked outside? It’s still pouring. That umbrella isn’t going to help much.”

“Thanks for caring. But I’ve been taking care of myself for a long time now. I’ll be fine.”

When she started to move toward the front door, he reached out and grabbed her upper arm. His touch was firm but gentle. Goose bumps raced down to her wrists, lifting the fine hair on her arms. She glanced down at where his fingers were wrapped around her and immediately his hand pulled away.

“Sorry. I just wanted a chance to offer you a lift. I’ll go grab my wallet and keys.” He dashed down the hallway without waiting for her to say a word.

This was ridiculous. She couldn’t let herself start going soft. There was only her and Molly and right now, her daughter needed her to be strong for both of them. She would walk to the hospital as planned. It wasn’t that many blocks and she’d already done it a number of times.

She quietly let herself out the front door, feeling bad about skipping out on Lucas. For some reason, he was really trying to be a good sport about finding a stranger living in his house. She wondered if she would have been so understanding if the roles had been reversed.

* * *

“Kate, I’ve got them.” Lucas called out from the kitchen. “We can go now.”

Lucas had never met a woman quite like her. Her tenacity combined with a hint of vulnerability got to him on some level. He sensed she wasn’t the type to ask for help and would only take it if it was pressed upon her. Maybe that was why he was going out of his way to be kind to her—because she appeared to be in need of a friend and would never ask for one.

He strode to the foyer with his jacket on and keys in hand. But Kate was gone. He called out to her, but there was no sound. Surely she hadn’t skipped out on him.

He stepped outside to look for her. The rain was picking up and so was the wind. But there was no sign of Kate in either direction. This was not a day where an umbrella would do a person much good.

Without taking time to question his next move, he was in his car and driving around the block. She couldn’t have gotten far. And then he spotted a perky red umbrella. In the windy weather, Kate struggled to keep a grip on the umbrella with one hand while clutching her suitcase with the other.

He slowed next to her and lowered the window. “Get in.”

She ignored him and kept walking. A gust of wind blew hard and practically pulled the umbrella free from her hold. In the end, she’d held on to it, but the wire skeleton now bowed in the wrong direction, rendering the contraption totally useless.

“Get in the car before you’re soaked to the skin.”

She stood there for a second as though ready to burst into tears. Then pressing her lips into a firm line, she straightened her shoulders and stepped up to the car. He jumped out to take her things from her.

Once they were stowed away, he climbed back in the driver’s seat. “Where are we off to?”

“East Riverview Hospital.”

Her face was devoid of any expression, leaving him to wonder about the reason for her visit. She’d mentioned meeting his aunt there, but she hadn’t added any details. Was she visiting a sick relative? Or was there something wrong with her? Was that the reason for her drawn cheeks and dark circles under her eyes?

He wanted to know what was going on, but he kept quiet and eased back into traffic. If she wanted him to know, she’d tell him. Otherwise it was none of his business. He assured himself it was best to keep a cordial distance.

* * *

Kate settled back against the leather seat. She hated to admit it, but she was thankful for the ride. She hadn’t any idea that there would be so much ponding on the sidewalks. Her feet were wet and cold.

As though reading her thoughts, Lucas adjusted the temperature controls and soon warm air was swirling around her. It’d been a long time since someone had worried about her. For just a second, she mused about what it’d be like to date the Bachelor of the Year—he certainly was easy on the eyes and very kind. More than likely, he had his pick of women. The thought left her feeling a bit unsettled.

She couldn’t let herself get swept away by Lucas’s charms. She had a notorious record with unreliable men. Why would Lucas be any different? After all, she knew next to nothing about him—other than he was a lousy housekeeper. He’d dismissed his desperately needed maid service. And he went out of his way for strangers he found squatting in his house. Wait. She was supposed to be listing his negative qualities.

She needed to make an important point not only to him but also to herself. “You know, I would have been fine on my own. You didn’t have to ride to my rescue.”

“I had to go out anyway.”

“And you just happened to be going in the same direction.”

“Something like that.”

The car rolled to a stop at an intersection. Lucas glanced at her. His probing eyes were full of questions. Like what was a small-town girl doing in the Big Apple? And how had she befriended his aunt? And the number one question that was dancing around in his mind: Why was she going to the hospital?

He didn’t push or prod. Instead he exuded a quiet strength. And that only made it all the more tempting to open up to him—to dump the details of the most tragic event in her life into his lap. No, she couldn’t do that. No matter how nice he was to her, letting him in was just asking for trouble.

Afraid he’d voice his inevitable questions, she decided to ask him a few of her own. “What’s the story with the house? Why does it look frozen in time?”

Lucas’s facial features visibly hardened. “I haven’t had time to deal with it.”

“Have you owned the place long?”

“My family has lived there for generations.”

Wow. She couldn’t even imagine what it would be like to have family roots that went that deep. Her relatives were the here-today-gone-tomorrow type. And they never bothered to leave a forwarding address. Once in a while a postcard would show up from her mother. Her father... Well, he’d been out of the picture since she was young.

She tried not to think about her lack of family or her not-so-happy childhood. It didn’t do any good to dwell on things that couldn’t be changed. The only thing that mattered now was the future. But there was one thing she could do to help Lucas hold on to a piece of his past.

“You know the house is in desperate need of repairs, especially the upstairs,” she said, longing to one day have an opportunity to work on an impressive job such as his historic mansion. “I’m an interior designer and I have some contacts that could help—”

“I’m not interested.”

The thought of that stunning architecture disintegrating for no apparent reason spurred her on. “But houses need to be cared for or they start to look and act their age. And it’d be such a travesty to let the place fall down—”

“It’s fine as is. End of discussion.”

She wanted to warn him about the leaking roof, but he’d cut her off. She doubted anything she said now would even register in his mind.

With a huff, she turned away. Frustration warmed her veins. Here was a problem that could so easily be resolved and yet this man was too stubborn to lift up the phone and ask for help. If only her problems could be fixed as readily.

Her thoughts filled with the possible scenarios for today’s meeting with Molly’s specialist. This surgeon was their last hope. Kate prayed he wouldn’t dismiss the case as quickly as Lucas had dismissed the problem with his house.

She tilted her head against the cool glass. It soothed her heated skin. She stared blindly ahead, noticing how even at this early hour, the city was coming to life. An army of people with umbrellas moved up and down the walks while traffic buzzed by at a steady pace. Her world might be teetering on the edge, but for everyone else, it was business as usual.

Now was not the time for self-pity. As the towering hospital came into view, she straightened her shoulders and inhaled a deep breath, willing away all of her doubts and insecurities.

“Which entrance should I drop you at? Emergency?”

“No. I told you I’m fine. Fit as a fiddle.” She forced a smile to her lips before gathering her things.

“You’re sure?”

“Absolutely. The main entrance will do.”

“You know hospitals aren’t a great place to be alone. Is there someone I can call for you?”

He surprised her with his thoughtful offer. How could a man be so frustrating in one breath and sweet in the next?

“No, thanks. I have some people waiting for me.”

He pulled the car over to the curb. “Are you sure?”

She nodded. What she failed to tell him was that the people waiting for her consisted of the medical staff. No family. Except for Molly. She was all the family Kate needed.

“Thank you for everything.” She jumped out into the rain. “I just have to grab my suitcase.”

Lucas swiveled around. “Leave it.”

“But I—”

“Obviously you have enough to deal with already. Besides, I’m planning to work from home today. Call me when things are wrapped up here and I’ll give you a lift to your hotel.”

She had to think fast. Without an umbrella, the rain was soaking her. She really should end this here and now, but she’d feel more confident for the meeting if she wasn’t lugging around an old suitcase. Lucas was only offering to keep her possessions for a few hours, not asking her to run off and have a steamy affair or anything. The errant thought warmed her cheeks.

“Thanks for the offer, but I’m not sure how long I’m going to be.”

“No problem. Let me give you my number.”

In seconds, she had his number saved on her cell phone and was jogging up the steps to the glass doors. Thoughts of Lucas slid to the back of her mind. She was about to have the most important meeting of her life.

She refused to leave until she heard: “Yes. We will help your daughter.”

CHAPTER FOUR

“I THINK WE can help your daughter but—”

Kate’s heart soared. She’d been waiting so long to hear those words. It took all her self-restraint not to jump for joy. She wasn’t sure what the surgeon said after that as the excitement clouded her mind.

For months now, they’d traveled to one hospital after the other. Every time she located a place that offered a possibility of hope, they were there. Now at long last they had come to the right place. The weight of anxiety slipped from her shoulders and left her lighter than she’d been in recent memory.

When a stack of papers was shoved in front of her, she glanced down, spotting her name and a very large dollar figure. Her excitement stuttered.

“What is this?” She couldn’t move her gaze from the staggering dollar figure.

“That is the amount you’ll need to pay up front if we are to perform the operation.”

This couldn’t be right. She had health coverage and it wasn’t cheap. “But my insurance—”

“Won’t cover this procedure.” Dr. Hawthorne steepled his fingers and leaned back in his chair. “It doesn’t cover experimental procedures. I’m willing to donate my time, but in order for the hospital to book the O.R. and the necessary staff, you’ll need to settle this bill with Accounts Receivable.” He paused and eyed her up as though checking to see if she fully understood. “You also need to be aware that this is an estimate. A conservative one at that. If there are complications, the bill will escalate quickly.”

Kate nodded, but inside her stomach was churning and her head was pounding. Her gaze skimmed over the long list of charges from the anesthesiologist to medications. How in the world was she going to raise this staggering amount of money?

Her daughter’s smiling face came to mind. She couldn’t...no, she wouldn’t let her down. There had to be an answer, because this operation was going to happen no matter what she had to do to make it a reality.

“You should also know that we normally like to treat children on an outpatient basis until surgery but with this tumor’s aggressive growth rate and with it already affecting her mobility, I feel it’s best to keep her admitted under close observation.”

Kate nodded in understanding even though her head was spinning with information. “I understand.”

Dr. Hawthorne cleared his throat. “Will you be able to come up with the funding?”

Without hesitation, Kate spoke in a determined voice. “Yes, I will.”

The surgeon with graying temples gave her a long, serious stare. She didn’t glance away, blink or so much as breathe. She sat there ready to do battle to get her daughter the necessary surgery.

“I believe you will,” Dr. Hawthorne said. “I need you to sign these forms and then my team will start working to reduce the tumor’s size before surgery.”

Kate’s lungs burned as she blew out a pent-up breath. She accepted the papers and started to read. Her stomach quivered as she realized the overwhelming challenge set before her.

A half an hour later, with her life signed away to East Riverview Hospital, Kate took comfort in knowing she’d done the right thing. This surgeon had performed miracles before. He could do it again. Kate was spurred on by the thought of Molly healthy once again. She could do this—somehow. She just needed time to think.

The elevator pinged and the doors opened. Kate stepped inside. A man stood in front of the control panel.

“Five, please.” She moved to the other side of the elevator and stared down at the paperwork in her hand, wondering how she’d pull off this miracle.

“Kate?” a male voice spoke.

The door slid shut as Kate lifted her head. When her gaze latched on to the man, her breath caught. This couldn’t be happening. Not here. Not now.

“Chad, what are you doing here?”

His dark brows scrunched together beneath the brim of a blue baseball cap. “Now, is that the way to greet your husband?”

“Ex-husband.” She pressed her hands to her hips. “I tried to reach you months ago. You didn’t have time for us then. Why have you suddenly shown up now?”

“My daughter’s sick. My family needs me—”

“That’s where you’re wrong.” There was no way she was letting him walk in here and act as if he was their saving grace. “We don’t need you. We’ve been fine all of this time without you.”

His gaze hardened. “I’ve been busy.”

After he’d refused to settle down in one place and create a nurturing environment for their daughter, he’d left Kate on her own to have their baby. He’d succeeded in confirming her mistrust of men.

The elevator dinged and the door slipped open. Kate stepped out first and left Chad to follow. They stopped outside Molly’s door. Kate didn’t want anything to upset her little girl, not after everything she’d been through in the past several months. And certainly not now that she was scheduled for a very delicate procedure.

“How is she?”

“The tumor is causing her some mobility problems.”

“Is she in pain?”

Kate shook her head. “Thankfully she feels fine...for now. If they don’t do the surgery soon that will change. But...”

“But what?”

“Money has to be raised to cover the surgery. Lots of money.” Kate stood between Chad and the doorway to Molly’s room. “You should go before she sees you.”

He crossed his arms. “I’m not going anywhere.” His voice rose. “My Molly girl will be excited to see her daddy.”

Before she could utter a word, Molly called out. “Daddy, is that you?”

“Yes, sweetie. I’m here.” He leaned over and whispered, “I always was her favorite.”

Kate bit back a few unkind words as she followed her ex into the room. She hated how he dropped into their lives whenever it suited him and disappeared just as quickly.

Maybe that was why she’d been initially drawn to him—he was so much like her family, always chasing happiness in the next town. Having a child had been too much for her father, who’d split when she was ten. But her mother had stuck it out until Kate’s eighteenth birthday, before skipping town with the current flavor of the month.

But when Kate became pregnant, her priorities changed. She wanted her child to have a real home. She promised herself that her little one would have something she never had—stability.

The same town.

The same house.

The same bed.

She wondered what it’d be like to live in a home like Lucas’s, rich with family history. The man didn’t know how good he had it. The errant thought brought her up short. Why should she think of him now? And why did just the mere thought of him have her heart going pitty-pat? Maybe because she hadn’t anticipated his kindness after finding her, a total stranger, in his house.

“Yay! Daddy’s here.” Molly’s smile filled the room with an undeniable glow.

Chad gave their daughter a kiss and a hug. Kate watched the happy reunion and wondered whether she should be furious at her unreliable ex or grateful he’d made Molly’s face light up like Christmas morning. A child’s ability to forgive was truly impressive. And right now Molly’s happiness was all that mattered.

“How long are you sticking around?” Kate asked, wondering if she had time to grab some much needed coffee and gather her thoughts.

“For a while. Molly and I have some catching up to do.”

“Daddy, wanna watch this with me?” Molly pointed to a cartoon on the television anchored to the wall.

All three of them in the same room for an extended period would only lead to problems. Chad had a way of finding her tender spots and poking them. And having Molly witness her parents arguing was certainly not something her little girl needed right now. Kate struggled to come to terms with the fact Chad was suddenly back in their lives.

“I’m just going to step out and get some coffee. I’ll be right back.” Kate couldn’t help thinking that she was a third wheel here, an unfamiliar feeling. “You should know she sleeps a lot.”

“No need to rush.” Chad used his take-charge tone, which caused every muscle in Kate’s body to tense. “How about I stay until this afternoon and then you can spend the evening with our girl. No need for both of us to be here. After all, you have money to raise.”

Just the way he said the last part let her know that coming up with the money for the surgery would be solely her responsibility. Her blood pressure rose. What else was new?

She was about to inform him of his responsibilities toward their daughter when common sense dowsed her angry words. An argument between her and Chad was the last thing Molly needed. Still, with all three of them crowded in this small room all day, an argument was inevitable.

“You can leave,” Chad said dismissively.

“Yeah, Mommy. Daddy and me are gonna watch TV.”

Maybe it was the best way to keep Molly happy. She caught Chad’s gaze. “Are you sure you want to stay that long?”

“Absolutely. Molly and I have lots of catching up to do. Is that a stack of board games over there?” He pointed to the corner of the room.

Before Kate could speak, Molly piped up. “Yeah. Wanna play?”

While Chad wasn’t reliable for the long haul, when he was with Molly, he was a good father. Kate smiled at her daughter’s exuberance. “What time should I be back?”

“Three. I have some things to do then.”

“Okay. I’ll see you both at three.” And to be certain of Chad’s intentions, she added, “You will still be here, won’t you? Because I can come back earlier.”

“I’ll be here.”

Kate kissed her daughter goodbye and hesitantly walked away. She assured herself Molly would be fine with Chad. In the meantime, she had planning to do. Four weeks wasn’t much time to come up with enough cash to cover the bill.

The thought made her chest tighten. She didn’t have access to that kind of money. As it was, her house in Pennsylvania was being sold to pay some prior medical bills. What in the world was she going to do?

* * *

“Elaina, you have to be reasonable.” Lucas struggled to maintain a calm tone with his ex-wife. “All I’m asking is for you to let me see Carrie when I fly back out to San Francisco.”

“And I told you it’s too confusing for her. She has a dad now—one who doesn’t spend his life at the office. Don’t come around again. All you’ll do is upset her.”

“That’s not true.” His grip on the phone tightened. “You know you could make this easier for her by not yelling at me in front of her.”

Elaina sighed. “When you show up without invitation, what do you expect? And I’m only doing what’s best for my daughter—”

“Our daughter. And if I waited for an invitation, I’d be an old man. Don’t you think her knowing her father is important?”

“No. Don’t keep pushing this. Carrie is happy without you.”

A loud click resonated through the phone. His teeth ground together at the nerve of his ex-wife hanging up the phone while he was trying to reason with her.

The kitchen chair scraped over the smooth black-and-white tiles as Lucas swore under his breath and jumped to his feet. He paced the length of the kitchen. The sad thing was Elaina meant her threat. She would make his life hell if he didn’t play by her rules. She’d done it once by skipping town with their daughter and leaving no forwarding address. This time he didn’t even want to think of the lies she’d tell Carrie about him.

This was the reason he’d decided to let his daughter live in peace without the constant shuffle between two warring parents. He wanted a better childhood for Carrie than he’d had.

His thoughts drifted back to his childhood. He’d hated being a pawn between his parents and being forced to play the part of an unwilling spy. Those two were so wrapped up in knowing each other’s business and with outdoing the other that, in some twisted way, he figured they never really got over each other.

But if that was love, then he wanted no part of it. That’s why he’d decided to marry Elaina. They had a relationship based on friendship and mutual goals, not love. A nice, simple relationship. Boy, had he made a huge miscalculation. Even without love things got complicated quickly. Now he couldn’t let his daughter pay the price for his poor decisions.

Lucas stopped next to the table and stared down at the unfinished email. The cursor blinked, prompting him for the next words, but he couldn’t even recall what he’d written.

Nothing was going right at the moment. First, his ex-wife declared war if he pursued his right to spend time with his little girl. Then there was the San Francisco expansion, which was hemorrhaging money. His only hope was the launch of his newest line: Fiery Hearts—brilliant rubies set in the most stunning handcrafted settings.

The launch of this line had to be bigger and better than any other he’d done. Fiery Hearts had to start a buzz that would send women flocking to Carrington’s, infusing it with income to offset the cost of getting the West Coast showroom up and running. He raked his fingers through his hair, struggling for some innovative, headline-making launch for the line. But he drew a blank.

He closed the laptop and strode over to the counter. He went to refill his coffee cup only to find the pot empty. The thought of brewing more crossed his mind, but he had a better idea—getting away from the house by going to a coffee shop. Between the hum of conversation and his laptop, it’d keep him occupied. And if Kate needed her suitcase, she had his number.

Satisfied with his plan of action, he grabbed his keys and wallet when his cell phone buzzed. A quick glance at the illuminated screen revealed it was his aunt.

“Aunt Connie, I’ve been trying since last night to get you. Are you okay?”

“Of course. Why wouldn’t I be?”

“I’m not used to you being out so late and not taking my calls.”

“Sorry. I was at the hospital, sitting with a woman whose husband underwent emergency surgery.”

“Did everything go well?” he asked, already having a pretty good guess at the answer. His aunt was too upbeat for things to have gone poorly.

“Yes, the man has a good prognosis. So, dear, how are things going in San Francisco?”

This was his opening to find out what exactly was going on here. “I got back late last night.”

There was a quick intake of breath followed by silence. He wasn’t going to help his aunt out of this mess. She owed him an explanation of why a stranger was living here in his home without his permission. He might love his aunt dearly, but this time she’d overstepped.

“Oh, dear. Umm...I meant to call you—”

“So you’re admitting you invited Kate to stay here without consulting me?”

“Well, yes. But I knew you’d understand.” Uncertainty threaded through her voice.

If Connie were an employee, he’d let her have an earful and then some. But this was his aunt, the only family member who’d ever worried more about his happiness than the company’s bottom line...or having the Carrington name appear on the society page with some splashy headline. He couldn’t stay angry with her, even if he tried.

“It might be best if you ask in the future, instead of assuming.” He made sure to use his I’m-not-messing-around voice.

“I’m sorry. She doesn’t have any family for support or anywhere to go. And I would have sent her to my place, but you know after the last person I took in, my roommate insisted I never bring home anyone else. How was I to know that woman liked to borrow things?”

“Without permission and without any intention of returning them.”

He was so grateful that his aunt had Pauline to look after her. If it weren’t for Pauline, he’d never feel comfortable enough to leave town on business. His aunt was too nice, too unassuming. As a result, people tried repeatedly to take advantage of her to get to the Carrington fortune.

“Kate isn’t like the others,” Connie insisted. “She has a good heart.”

“Still, you shouldn’t have sent her here. This house...it’s off-limits.”

“I thought after all of this time you’d have let go of the past.”

He’d never let go. How could he? It’d mean letting go of his little girl. A spot inside his chest ached like an open, festering wound every time he thought of how much he missed seeing Carrie’s sweet smile or hearing her contagious laughter. But he didn’t want to discuss Carrie with his aunt...with anyone.

Hoping to redirect the conversation, he asked, “What do you know about Kate?”

“Didn’t she tell you?”

A knock at the back door caught him off guard. He wasn’t expecting anyone as he never had visitors. And if it was some sort of salesperson, they’d go to the front door.

“I’ve got to go. Someone’s at the door. I’ll call you back later.”

“Lucas, be nice to Kate. She has more than enough on her plate. She can use all of the friends she can get.”

And with that the line went dead. What in the world had that cryptic message meant? He didn’t have time to contemplate it as the knock sounded again.

He let out a frustrated sigh as he set his phone on the center island. So much for getting any answers about Kate. Now all he had were more questions.

The knocking became one long string of beats.

“Okay! I’m coming.”

Lucas strode over and yanked open the door. A cold breeze rushed past him. His mouth moved, but words failed him.

There standing in the rain, completely soaked, was Kate. Her teeth chattered and her eyes were red and puffy. This certainly wasn’t the same determined woman he’d dropped off at the hospital. Where her hair had once been styled, the wet strands clung to her face. What in the world was going on?

Without thinking he reached out, grabbed her arms and pulled her inside. His mind continued to flood with questions, so many that he didn’t know where to start. But finally he drew his thoughts into some semblance of order and decided to start at the beginning.

“Why didn’t you call?” He slipped her purse off her shoulder and set it on a kitchen stool. “I’d have picked you up.”

Were those tears flowing down her cheeks? Or raindrops? He couldn’t be sure. Obviously he’d have to hold off getting to the bottom of this. His first priority was getting Kate warmed up.

“We need to get you in a hot shower.” She started to shake her head when he added, “No arguments. You’ll be lucky if you don’t catch pneumonia. If you hadn’t noticed, it’s awfully cold to be walking around in the rain.”

He helped her out of her jacket, which definitely wasn’t waterproof. Next, he removed her waterlogged red heels. When he reached for her hand to lead her to his bathroom, he noticed how small and delicate she was next to him.

She looked so fragile and his instinct was to protect her—to pull her close and let her absorb his body heat. He resisted the urge. It wasn’t his place to soothe away her worries. When it came to relationships, he should wear a sign that read Toxic. And that was why he intended to grow old alone.

In his bedroom, he had her wait while he grabbed a towel and heated up the shower. When he returned, she was still standing there with her arms hugging herself, staring at the floor. What in the world had happened? Did she have bad news at the hospital? Had someone died?

Not that it was any of his business. He wasn’t a man to lean on. He had no words of wisdom to share to make whatever problem she had go away. If he had, he’d have used it to fix his own messed up life. He’d have gotten his family back. The house would be filled with the sounds of his daughter’s laughter. Instead the silence was deafening. He shoved the troubling thoughts away.

“Let’s get you in a hot shower.” He showed her to his bathroom. “Will you be all right in there alone? Or should I call my aunt?”

In a faint whisper, she said, “I’m fine.”

Sure she was. And he had some oceanfront property in New Mexico to sell.

“Just yell, if you need me. I won’t be far away.”

While she warmed up in the shower, he rushed to the front door and returned with her suitcase. His thumbs hovered over the locks. He stopped. Opening her suitcase would be prying—something he hated when people did it to him, no matter what their intentions. Instead, he retrieved his robe and laid it on the bed, just in case she was still chilled.

Trying not to think of how good she’d looked in his robe, he returned to the kitchen. He grabbed the coffeepot and filled it with water. His idea to step out for a bit was permanently on the back burner. Once he got Kate situated in a hotel, the afternoon would be shot. And so would his patience.

He flung himself down on a kitchen chair, determined to concentrate on something besides his unwanted guest. He opened up his laptop and skimmed over his unfinished email. He had absolutely no desire to work. This realization for a renowned workaholic was unsettling, to say the least. What was wrong with him? Was it the way things had ended in San Francisco with his little girl looking at him with fear in her eyes when he went to pick her up?

He inhaled an unsteady breath. He’d made his choice, not to make his daughter a pawn between him and his ex. It was the right decision...for Carrie. Now he had to get a grip. After all, Carrington Gems was all he had left.

With one ear toward the bathroom and his eyes on the monitor, he started to type. He’d gotten through a handful of emails by the time Kate emerged from the bedroom wearing his robe. Her dark brown hair was wet and brushed back from her face and her cheeks were tinged pink from the shower.

The robe gaped open, revealing a glimpse of her cleavage. His overzealous imagination filled in the obscured details. He should have looked away but he couldn’t. He was drawn to her like a starving bear to a picnic basket.

He shifted uncomfortably, fighting back this wave of desire. Sex was not the answer. It only complicated things, even in the simplest of relationships.

The fact he’d never met anyone who was so fiercely independent but at the same time looked worn to the bone only made him more curious about Kate. What was her story? Where had she come from? And what was she doing at the hospital?

He swallowed hard. “Do you feel better?”

She nodded. “I’m sorry to be such a bother.”

Was this where he was supposed to step up and comfort her? He hesitated. He never was one of those soft, mushy people. He was a Carrington—strong, proud and unfeeling. Or at least those were the words his ex had thrown at him numerous times and he’d never had a reason to disbelieve her assessment. Until now....

There was something about Kate that bore through his defenses and made him want to fix whatever was broken. But he didn’t know anything about comforting people. With each passing moment he grew more uncomfortable, not knowing how he should act around her.

Taking the safe approach, he got up and pulled a chair out for her. “Have a seat while I get you some coffee. Do you take milk or sugar?”

“A little of both, please.”

That he could do. It was this talking stuff that had him knotted up inside. He wasn’t sure what to say or do. Silence was best. Silence was golden.

Once she finished her coffee, he would see about getting her moved to a hotel. His life would then return to normal. Or whatever qualified as normal these days. And he wasn’t going to ask any questions. Her life was none of his affair.

CHAPTER FIVE

KATE SANK DOWN on the black-cushioned chair, mortified that she’d shown up on this man’s—this stranger’s—doorstep and fallen to pieces. The staggering hospital bill already had her worried beyond belief, but combined with the unexpected appearance of her ex-husband it was just too much. It wasn’t often that she let down her guard. And she really wished it hadn’t been in front of Lucas.

The steaming shower had helped clear her mind. She’d given in to a moment of fear that she would fail her daughter, but the time for uncertainty had passed. She must be strong now. Besides, she refused to fall to pieces again in front of Lucas. He must already think that she was...what? Pathetic? Weak? Looking for a handout? Or all of the above? She wasn’t about to confirm any of his suspicions—not if she could help it.

He pushed a cup of steaming coffee in front of her. “Drink this. It’ll warm you up while I run to the deli and get us some lunch.”

“Thank you. I’m sorry for imposing again. I...I just started walking and thinking. Eventually I ended up here.”

Her hands were clammy and her muscles tense as she clutched the warm ceramic cup. Her gaze strayed to Lucas as he strode over to the center island where his jacket was draped over a stool as though he might have been headed somewhere before she showed up. His strides were long and his dark jeans accentuated his toned legs and cute backside. His collared shirt was unbuttoned just enough for her to catch a glimpse of his firm chest. He’d certainly make some woman a fine catch—except for his lack of housekeeping skills.

He slipped on his jacket. “You can play solitaire on my computer.”

“I hate making you go out in the rain—”

“I was going out anyway. I guess one of these days I need to do more than just drive past the grocery store.” He flashed her a lighthearted smile. “Do you want anything in particular to eat?”

She shook her head. “I’m not picky.”

“I won’t be long.” He rushed out the door.

Kate was exhausted, but there was no time for sleep. She needed to plan out how to raise the funds for the surgery. Her lengthy walk had given her time to think and she knew there was no way a bank would lend her that kind of money. And she didn’t have any rich aunts or uncles lurking in the family tree. That only left a fund-raiser. A big one!

Lucas had said she could use his computer. She pulled up a search engine and began typing. Eventually she stumbled across the fact that the Carringtons used to organize fund-raisers, some even taking place in this very mansion.

Somehow Lucas must have missed the social gene. This house wasn’t fit for him to live in much less provide a venue for entertaining. If only the mansion had been better maintained, it’d be ideal for a premium ticket event.

Before she could search for alternate locations that might attract wealthy donors, Lucas returned with a large bag. “Hope you’re hungry.”

“Looks like enough to feed a football team.”

“I wasn’t sure what to order. So I got a little of this and a little of that.”

They quietly set the table and spread out the food. Kate’s belly rumbled its anticipation. She eagerly munched down her sandwich before Lucas was even halfway done with his. He pushed another foil-wrapped sandwich in front of her.

“That must have been some walk,” Lucas said as she unwrapped the food.

“I had a lot of thinking to do.”

After she’d left the hospital, she’d tramped around the bustling streets of Manhattan. She’d been surrounded by people from all walks of life and yet she had never felt more alone—more scared that she’d fail as a mother. But thanks to Lucas’s kindness the panic had passed and her determination had kicked in. She would see that her little girl got what she needed—one way or the other.

“And did you get everything straight in your head?”

She glanced away, unsure how to answer. She didn’t want him to think any less of her for losing complete control of her life, but she hated to lie, too. She took the middle road. “I still have a lot to figure out.”

“You know, I find when I have problems at the office that talking them through usually helps. We conduct brainstorming sessions where my key people sit around tossing out ideas, no matter how crazy they might sound. One thing leads to another until we have some potential solutions. Would you like to give it a try?”

She didn’t know why he was being so nice to her. A warm shower. His übercomfy robe. A cup of hot coffee. More food than she could ever eat. And now a sympathetic ear. His kindness choked her up and had her blinking repeatedly.

“Hey, it can’t be that bad.” Lucas squeezed her forearm.

The heat of his touch seeped through the robe, igniting a pulse of awareness. The sensation zinged up her arm and short-circuited her already frazzled mind. Then just as quickly as he’d reached out to her, he pulled back. It was as though he realized he’d crossed some sort of invisible line.

She sniffled. “Actually my life is a nightmare right now.”

“The visit to the hospital—was it because you’re sick?”

“I wish that was the case.”

His brows lifted and his eyes grew round. “You want to be sick?”

The horrified expression on his face made her laugh. She couldn’t help it. Maybe this was the beginning of some sort of nervous breakdown, but the look Lucas shot her across the table tickled her funny bone. He probably thought she’d lost control of her senses. But she was perfectly sane and this was deadly serious.

Her laughter was immediately doused by the thought of her daughter. “I don’t want to be sick. But if someone must be ill, it should be me. Not my four-year-old daughter.”

Lucas sat back in his chair as though her words had knocked him over. “What’s the matter with her?”

“Molly needs an operation. That’s why we came to New York. No one else was willing to take the risk. But before anything can be done, I have to come up with the money to pay for the surgery.”

Lucas’s brows scrunched together as though he were processing all of this information. “Excuse me for asking, but don’t you have insurance?”

“It doesn’t cover experimental procedures. And every cent I have won’t make a dent in what I owe.”

His blue eyes warmed with sympathy. He nodded as though he understood. That or he ran out of kind words to say. Either way, she’d already said too much.

“I’m sorry. This isn’t your problem. I only stopped back to get my things.”

“Where will you go?”

“I...I don’t know. I hadn’t gotten that far yet. But I’ll figure out something. I always do.”

She got to her feet a little too quickly. The room started to spin. She grabbed the back of the chair and squeezed her eyes shut, willing the sickening sensation to pass.

The sound of rapid footsteps had her opening her eyes. A worried frown greeted her. “I’m fine.”

“You don’t look it.”

“It’s nothing. I just stood up too fast.” That combined with three hours of shut-eye the night before and plodding around in the rain on top of the news that she owed the hospital a small fortune had left her drained and off-balance. But she refused to play the sympathy card. She didn’t want him thinking any less of her. Then again, was it possible to sink lower in his estimation? She stifled a groan.

“I think this news has taken its toll on you.” Lucas stared at her, holding her gaze captive. “Do you have family around to help?”

Did Chad count? Not in her book. “No. My mother is out of town and my father... He’s not in the picture. It’s just me and Molly.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.”

An awkward silence ensued. Hoping to fill in the gap so he didn’t feel that he had to say anything sympathetic, she added, “We do okay on our own. In fact, I should get back to the hospital soon.”

“I’m sure your little girl misses you.”

The mention of her daughter had her remembering Lucky Ducky. She pulled the keychain from the pocket of the robe and fidgeted with it.

“I see you have your duck handy. Is it special? Or do you just like to have something to fidget with?”

Kate stared at the trinket. “My daughter gave it to me after winning it at Pizza Pete’s Arcade. She said it was to keep me company. I tossed it into my purse and eventually it became sort of a good luck charm.”

“He looks like a reliable, no-nonsense duck. No quacking around.”

She found herself smiling at his attempt at levity. “He’s definitely seen me through some tough times. Now, I should get cleaned up. Molly’s dad will be leaving soon and I need to be there when he does so she isn’t alone.”

His gaze moved to her bare ring finger. “You’re married?”

“No. Chad’s my ex-husband. And...” She shook her head, fighting to hold back another yawn and...losing the battle. “Never mind. I keep rambling on when I need to get out of your way. I’m sure you have better things to do.”

“What time are you expected back at the hospital?”

“Not until three. It’s best if my ex and I keep our time together at a minimum. Molly has enough to deal with. She doesn’t need to see her parents arguing.”

“You still have a couple of hours until you have to be back. Why don’t you take a nap and later I’ll give you a ride to the hospital?”

His offer filled her with a warmth that she hadn’t felt in a long time. “I couldn’t ask you to do that. You don’t even know me.”

“You aren’t asking. I’m offering. And after I kept you up late last night, I owe you this.”

“But it isn’t necessary—

“It’s still drizzling outside. You don’t need to get wet again. So do we have a deal?”

“How is it a deal? What do you get out of helping me?”

“Let’s just say it feels good being able to help someone.”

She had a feeling there was more to his statement than he let on. Was he wishing that someone would help him? What could a wealthy, sexy bachelor need help with?

She looked into his blue-gray eyes. “Are you sure?”

“I am. Now do you promise you won’t go sneaking off again?”

She was exhausted. And he seemed determined to be a Good Samaritan. What would it hurt to accept his offer?

“I promise.”

* * *

A ball of sympathy and uneasiness churned in Lucas’s gut. He knew all too well the hell a parent went through when they felt as if they’d lost control of their children’s safety. When his ex-wife had up and left him, she’d written only a brief note saying she’d take good care of their little girl. Until his private investigator had tracked her down in California, he hadn’t been able to function.

This thing with Kate hit too close to home. But how could he turn his back on her when her daughter was in such shaky circumstances?

He needed time to think. In fact, that’s all he’d been doing since Kate went upstairs to lie down. But it was almost three and he hadn’t seen any sign of her. The memory of her pale face and the dark smudges under her eyes had him thinking she was still asleep. Perhaps she’d forgotten to set the alarm on her phone. Or maybe she was so tired that she’d slept right through it. He couldn’t blame her.

He should wake her, but the thought of going upstairs left a sour taste in his mouth. He hadn’t been upstairs in a long time. There was nothing up there but gut-wrenching memories of everything he’d lost—his family...his little girl.

Still he had to do something. He’d given his word that he’d get her there on time. The thought of a little girl—the image of his own daughter crystallized in his mind—sick and alone spurred him into action.

He moved to the bottom of the steps. “Kate!” Nothing. “Kate, are you awake? It’s time to head to the hospital.”

He waited, hoping to hear a response or the echo of footsteps. There were no sounds. Surely she hadn’t left again without saying anything. Unease churned in his gut. No. She’d promised and he sensed that she prided herself on keeping her word.

“Kate, we need to go!”

The seconds ticked by and still nothing. There was only one thing left to do. His gaze skimmed up the staircase. He’d been up and down those stairs countless times throughout his life and he’d never thought anything of it. Then came the day when he’d climbed to the second floor only to find his wife was gone along with his baby girl. The memory slugged him squarely in the chest, knocking the breath from his lungs.

That never-to-be-forgotten night he’d cleared out his personal belongings and moved to the first floor. He’d wanted to avoid the memories...the pain. Now because of Kate and her little girl, he had to climb those steps again.

Putting one foot in front of the other, he started up the stairs. He faltered as he reached the landing with the large stained-glass window, but he didn’t turn back. He couldn’t. This was too important.

He turned, taking the next set of steps two at a clip. His chest tightened and his hands tensed.

Don’t look around. Don’t remember. Just keep moving.

His strides were long and fast. He kept his face forward, resisting the instinct to survey his surroundings, to let the memories crowd into his mind—not that they were ever far away.

Lucas stopped in front of her door and blew out a pent-up breath. He rapped his knuckles on the heavy wood door. “Kate, are you awake?”

Nothing.

He knocked again. Still no response.

Was it possible she was sick? Walking around in the cold air while soaking wet certainly couldn’t have done her any good. And he wasn’t going downstairs until he knew she was all right.

He grasped the handle and pushed the door open. The drapes were drawn, allowing shadows to dance across the spacious room. When his eyes adjusted, he spotted Kate sprawled over the king-sized bed. Her breathing was deep. The stress lines were erased from her beautiful face. And her pink lips were slightly parted and very desirable.

He squashed his line of thought. Now wasn’t the time to check her out, no matter how appealing he found her. Relationships weren’t in the cards for him. In the end, people just ended up hurting each other. And he wanted no part of that.

“Kate.” His voice was soft so as to not scare her. When she didn’t stir, he stepped closer. “Kate, wake up.”

She rolled over and stretched. The robe fell open, revealing a lace-trimmed pink top that hugged her curves and rode up, exposing her creamy white stomach. The breath caught in his throat. She was so gorgeous. He shouldn’t look—he should turn away. But what fun would that be? He was, after all, a man. A little glimpse of her fine figure wouldn’t hurt anyone. Right?

Her gaze latched on to him and the moment ended. She bolted upright.

“Lucas. What are you doing here?” She glanced down, cinching the robe closed. “I mean I know it’s your house and all...but what are you doing in my room...umm, your guest room.” She pressed a hand to her mouth, halting the babbling.

“I tried calling up the steps and even knocked on the door, but you were out to the world.”

“What do you want?”

The question was a loaded one and set off one inappropriate response after the other. The first of which was for her to move over in bed. The next thought was for her to kiss him.

He cleared his throat, hoping his voice would sound normal. “It’s time to go back to the hospital.” He turned for the door. “I’ll meet you downstairs.”

Drip... Drip... He paused and listened. Drip...

Lucas turned on his heels. “Is the faucet in the bathroom leaking?”

“Umm...no.”

“But that sound. Something’s dripping.” He squinted into the shadows. Frustrated, he moved to the light switch. “Can’t you hear it?”

“Of course I hear it. I’m not deaf.”

He flipped on the overhead light and spotted a wastebasket in the corner. A quick inspection of the ceiling showed water gathering around the bloated section of plaster. Droplets formed and dropped. Bits of fallen plaster littered the floor.

“What the—” He remembered his manners just before cursing. His mother had been the epitome of proper form. Carringtons should never lower themselves with vulgar language, she’d say. Especially not in front of guests.

“It’s been like that since the rain started. You need a new roof.”

His jaw tightened. “Thanks for pointing out the obvious.”

“I told you when we met that I’m an interior designer. I know more about houses than just how to properly hang a painting.”

“So you do roofing, too?”

She smiled. “No, I’m not a roofer, but that doesn’t mean I can’t find someone qualified to do a rush job. Because if you’d look around, you’d realize that isn’t your only leak.”

This time he didn’t care about his manners. “Damn.”

He’d turned a blind eye to the house to the point where he had no idea this place was in such bad condition. This went far beyond the mopping and cleaning he’d envisioned. There was considerable damage to the ceiling that was now bowing, and the crown molding was warped and crumbling.

Kate listed everything she’d noticed that needed repair. Unable to bear the guilt over the devastation he’d let happen to his childhood home...to his daughter’s legacy, he turned his gaze away from the ruined plaster. Kate continued talking as though she was in her element. Who knew that fixing up old houses could excite someone so much?

She got to her feet and straightened the bed. “If you want I can make a few phone calls to get people in here to start fixing things up. Maybe they can change things up a little and give this place a makeover—”

“No. I don’t want people in here, making changes.” He ground out the words.

A frown creased her forehead. “Of course there will have to be changes. Nothing ever stays the same. Life is one long string of changes.”

The only changes he’d experienced lately were bad ones that left him struggling to keep putting one foot in front of the other. Like his last visit with his daughter in California—when she’d turned away from him because he was now a stranger to her.

“Listen to me,” Kate said, moving to stand right in front of him. “You’re going to have to make some decisions about this place. You can already see the neglect is taking its toll. Once it’s fixed up, you can move out of that tiny room in the downstairs—”

“I’m happy there.”

She frowned at him as though she didn’t believe a word he said. “Perhaps then you might consider moving to someplace smaller and selling this house to some lucky family who will appreciate its charms.”

He glanced around at the room. This had been his aunt’s room, back when he was a kid. In this room, he’d always felt safe and accepted just as he was. This house was a scrapbook of memories, some good, some not so good. He couldn’t turn his back on it all.

Ghosts of the past filled his mind. The walls started to close in on him. Each breath grew more difficult. He needed space—air. He headed for the door, ignoring Kate’s plea for him to wait. With his gaze straight ahead, he marched down the hall, his breathing becoming more labored. It felt as though the oxygen had been sucked out of the house.

No matter how much he hated to admit it, Kate had a point. This mansion was in worse shape than he’d ever imagined. His shoulders drooped beneath the weight of guilt. His parents and grandparents would be horrified if they were still around to see the neglect he’d let take place. They’d entrusted him with the care of the Carrington mansion and he’d failed. His chest burned as he rushed down the stairs.

Even if he someday won over his little girl—if she no longer looked at him like a scary stranger—he couldn’t bring her here. He couldn’t show her the numerous portraits of her ancestors that his ex-wife had stashed in the attic. The dust. The peeling and cracking plaster. And most likely mold. It just wasn’t fit for a child—or for that matter, an adult.

In the foyer, he yanked open the front door. The cool breeze rushed up and swirled around him. He stood in the doorway as the rain pitter-pattered on the pavement. He breathed in the fresh air—the coolness eased his lungs.

As his heart rate slowed, his jumbled thoughts settled. Kate was right. The house did need more repairs than he’d ever thought possible. And he was way past putting it off until another day. Then a crazy idea struck him. But could it work?

CHAPTER SIX

UPON HEARING KATE’S approaching footsteps, Lucas turned. “You’re right.”

“I am?” Her pencil-thin brows rose. “Is this your way of apologizing? And perhaps asking me to make those calls for you?”

“Yes, that was an apology.” Why did she make him spell everything out? He thought he’d made it clear from the start.

As for having her involved with the repairs, he wasn’t sure. Guilt niggled at him. Here she was with so much on her plate and she was worried about him...er, rather his house. This was all so backward. He should be offering Kate a helping hand.

Wouldn’t things have gone more smoothly for him when his daughter went missing if he’d let someone in? Instead he’d closed himself off from the world. Lost in his own pain, Carrington Gems had teetered on the brink of disaster. Even today, he was still paying for the poor choices he’d made back then.

Was that the way Kate was feeling now? He glanced into her eyes, seeing pain and something else...could it be determination? Of course it was. She might have had a case of nerves earlier, but he could see by the slight tilt of her chin and her squared shoulders that the moment had passed.

Still, he wasn’t quite ready to throw in with a woman he barely knew...even if his aunt trusted Kate enough to open up his home to her. Still she seemed so excited when she talked about the house. He couldn’t make any decisions now. It’d take him some more thought.

He glanced at his watch. “We should go. You don’t want to be late.”

“But what about the roof?”

“It’ll keep for a few more hours. We can talk it over when you’re done at the hospital.”

He ushered her out the door into the gray, drizzling day. Deep inside he knew that Kate’s appearance in his life was about to alter things...for both of them. He didn’t know how, but he sensed change in the wind. And after years of trying to keep the status quo, this knowledge left him feeling extremely off-balance.

But no one could understand how hard it would be for him to help this woman with a sick child—a child the same age as his own daughter...who no longer even recognized him. Regret pummeled him. He should have been home more and tried harder to work things out with Elaina, if only for the sake of his little girl. Then it would be him she was calling Daddy—not someone else.

Silence filled the car, giving Lucas too much time to think about what he’d lost and how inadequate he felt as a human. He glanced over at Kate. “What has you so quiet?”

“I was thinking about how to raise money for the surgery.”

The streetlight turned green and Lucas eased down on the accelerator. “Do you have any family you can reach out to?”

“No. My family is small and not close-knit. My mother was around when Molly first got sick, but she doesn’t have a lot of patience. The longer the tests and hospital visits went on... Well, now she’s off in Los Angeles, or was it Las Vegas, with the new flavor of the month. She calls when she gets a chance.”

That was tough. Even though his mother had remarried after his father’s death and moved to Europe, he knew if he ever picked up the phone and asked for help that she’d come. She was never a warm and affectionate mother, but she did protect what was hers.

“So without a rich uncle in the family and knowing I won’t qualify for a loan, I’ll have to organize a fund-raiser. Something that can be arranged quickly and without too much overhead.”

He paused, searching for a solution. “I’ll help you as much as I can. You just hit me at a bad time as I’m fully invested in expanding Carrington Gems to the West Coast.” He didn’t bother to add that they’d hit one expensive stumbling block after the other with this project. In comparison to what Kate was facing, his problems paled considerably. “If I think of something that might work, I’ll let you know.”

“Thanks. And my offer is still open to make those phone calls. I have some contacts in New York who can hook me up with a reliable crew.”

The depth of her kindness struck a chord with him. “You’d really do that with everything you have going on?”

“Of course I would. You let me stay at your house for almost a week, rent-free...even if you didn’t know it. I owe you so much.”

He grew uncomfortable when people started thanking him. He wasn’t someone special—definitely not a selfless person like Kate appeared to be. He was a workaholic, who’d lost focus on his priorities and wound up with a house of memories and a business in jeopardy because he’d pushed too hard, too fast to gain the expansion into San Francisco.

“You don’t owe me a thing. All I did was let you stay in a leaky bedroom. Not very gallant of me.”

She sniffled. “You could have had me thrown in jail. Most other people who find a stranger in their house would call the police first and ask questions later.”

Lucas slowed the car as they neared the hospital. Once he maneuvered into a spot in front of the main sliding glass doors, he shifted into Park and turned to her. “Listen, you shouldn’t put me up on a pedestal. You barely know a thing about me. Trust me, I have an ex-wife who would vouch for the fact that I’m no saint.”

“You’re far too modest—”

“Don’t let a little kindness fool you. I’m a Carrington. We don’t have hearts—instead, there’s a rough diamond in its place.” His fist beat lightly on his chest. “Harder and colder than any rock you’ll ever find.”

“I don’t believe you.”

“It’s true. My grandfather told me. I was too young to truly understand what he meant, but now I do—”

“You definitely have a heart or you wouldn’t have been so kind to me.”

“And you’re too sweet for your own good.”

The way she stared at him with such assuredness made him want to be that man for her. The kind that was giving and thoughtful instead of focused and driven. For a moment, he was drawn into her dream—drawn to her.

When she lowered her face, he placed a finger beneath her chin. He wasn’t willing to lose the connection just yet. Her eyes glinted with... Was it longing? His body tensed at the thought. How could this slip of a woman—a near-stranger—have such an effect on him? And why did he have this overwhelming urge to pull her close and kiss her?

Without thinking of the consequences, he leaned forward. His lips sought hers out. They were soft and smooth. A whispered voice in the back of his mind said he should not be doing this. Not with Kate. Not with anyone.

But when her mouth moved beneath his, logic escaped him. It’d been so long since he felt this alive—this invigorated.

He went to pull her closer, but the seat restraint kept them separated except for his lips moving hungrily over hers. His hand reached out, cupping her face. His thumb stroked her cheek, enjoying her silky, smooth skin. All he could think was that he wanted more—more of her kiss...more of this connection.

A bright flash broke the spell. Lucas pulled back, struggling to catch his breath. His gaze moved to the window. Immediately he spotted a photographer smirking at him. Lucas surmised from past experience that the guy would take the picture and fabricate an eyebrow-raising headline to fit it.

“Wait here. I’ll be back.” Lucas jumped out of the car and started after the photographer. “Hey, you! Stop!”

The reporter had too much of a head start and slipped into a waiting vehicle. Lucas kicked at a pebble on the side of the road and swore.

What had he gotten himself into this time? Of all the foolish things to do. He’d been so touched by her insistence in believing in him that he’d momentarily let down his guard. He hadn’t thought about where they were or what he was about to do. He’d just reached out to her, needing to feel her warmth and kindness.

How was he supposed to know there was a photographer at the hospital? And how could he anticipate that they’d be noticed? Normally it wouldn’t have been a big deal, but with Kate involved it was different. She already had so much on her plate. She didn’t deserve to have to put up with the press. Those news stories, as they loosely called them, were nine times out of ten malicious pieces of gossip—such as the story his ex-wife had read about him being involved with one of the Carrington models. But it had been only one crack in an already crumbling marriage.

Kate hadn’t signed on for any of this media mayhem. She didn’t deserve to have her name associated with some trumped-up story. He just wished he could shield her from the public eye. With a frustrated sigh, he climbed back in the car.

“What’s going on?” Kate’s eyes filled with concern. “Why were you chasing that man?”

“The man was a reporter and he took a picture of us—”

“What?” Her face lost most of its color. “But why? None of this makes any sense. Why would he be interested in me? In us?”

Lucas raked his fingers through his hair. “Normally it wouldn’t matter. And any other time the paparazzi wouldn’t have given us a second look, but last month there was this magazine article—”

“The one announcing you as Bachelor of the Year.”

“You saw it?” His muscles tensed, hating the thought of being played by her. “You knew who I was from the moment we met, didn’t you?”

“That’s not true.” She held up both palms, feigning an innocent expression. “At first, I didn’t recognize you in your boxers. I guess I was a bit distracted.” Color rushed back into her cheeks. “The more important question is what will this reporter do with the photo?”

He shrugged. “My guess is he’ll sell it to the highest bidder—”

“But he can’t. If it gets out people will think that you and I are...uh—”

“Involved.” He wasn’t used to women being repulsed by the idea of being romantically linked with him. “Is the idea of people thinking we’re a couple so bad?”

“Yes.”

Her snap answer stung. He didn’t know what to say, so he leaned back in the driver’s seat. Maybe he should be relieved by her lack of interest, but he wasn’t. And that knowledge only aggravated him more.

“I’m sorry.” She fidgeted with her purse strap. “I didn’t mean for that to sound so harsh. I’m just not used to the paparazzi. And I really don’t want my picture in the news.”

Now that he could understand. His family had been making headlines longer than he’d been alive and he still wasn’t comfortable with it.

“Most likely something more newsworthy will come along and they’ll forget about us.”

“Oh, good.” The stress lines eased on her pretty face.

He didn’t really believe it, but there was always a sliver of hope. And right now, Kate looked as if she could use some positive thoughts.

* * *

Later that evening, Kate made sure to double-check the dead bolt on the door. She glanced out the window, relieved to find that no one had followed her.

“Anything wrong?”

She jumped at the unexpected sound of Lucas’s voice. “Umm...no.”

Had she imagined someone had been watching her at the hospital? Definitely not. She might be a lot of things but paranoid wasn’t one of them.

“Listen, if you’re stressed about what happened between us earlier, don’t be.” He shuffled his feet and wouldn’t look her in the eyes. “It was all my fault and it won’t happen again.”

Kate didn’t know whether to be insulted or relieved. She hadn’t been able to forget that kiss either—that mind-numbing, toe-curling kiss. And he was right—there shouldn’t be a repeat.

“If you don’t make a big deal of it, neither will I.”

He looked as if he wanted to say more, but then he turned away and headed for the kitchen. “I ordered pizza, if you’re hungry.”

She followed him. The aroma of tomato sauce and sausage wafted across the kitchen. “Smells good. Did you by chance order a salad to go with it?”

“Yes, I did.” He looked very proud of himself as he pulled a bowl from the fridge.

“Thank you.”

She sat down at the counter, still unsettled. She kept going over the memory of that man lurking in the hallway at the hospital. She hadn’t thought anything of him at first. But as the evening wore on, she’d noticed him again.

Lucas waved a hand in front of her face. “Kate?”

What had he said? She hadn’t been paying attention. “Umm...sure. Whatever.”

He placed a slice of the thin-crust pizza on a plate and pushed it in front of her. She didn’t make a move as she kept replaying the events from the day.

“I wasn’t going to ask,” Lucas said, “but you obviously aren’t going to eat until you resolve whatever has you so distracted.”

“There was a man lurking in the pediatrics unit this evening. At first, I thought he was there to visit someone, but he stayed in the shadows and sort of watched everyone. I wasn’t sure about leaving, but when I mentioned him to a nurse, he just sort of vanished.”

“I hired him,” Lucas said in a low, even tone.

That news had her sitting up straighter. “You hired someone to spy on me?”

“He was there to protect you.”

“Protect me?” Her voice rose. “From what?”

“Remember the photographer outside the hospital?” Her hands pressed the countertop as she nodded and he continued. “I didn’t want him or any other reporters to bother you with questions, so I sent an off-duty security guard from Carrington to make sure that didn’t happen.”

“I thought you said the press wouldn’t make a big deal of it.”

“I just wanted to be sure they left you alone.”

“So you do think they’ll go ahead with the photo?”

He wanted to assure her that she had nothing to worry about, but he couldn’t lie to her. “Probably.”

Her eyes lit up. “You can stop them.”

“Me? How am I supposed to do that?”

“Pay the guy off. Bid on the photo. I don’t know. There has to be a way.”

“Even if I wanted to stop him, I don’t have the man’s name.”

“How am I supposed to throw myself on people’s mercy and ask for money after my name and face have been tangled up in some tabloid scandal?”

“So you’ve come up with a plan to raise the money?”

She sat back with a huff. “We’re thinking of making it a costume party. Something unique. Your aunt offered to help.”

“You’ve been talking to my aunt?”

“Since I don’t know anyone else in this city except you, I approached her to help me organize the fund-raiser. Your aunt seems to know everyone, and if she doesn’t know them personally, she knows someone who does. Your aunt loves to talk. We even talked about this house.”

His eyes widened. “What exactly did you tell my aunt about the house?”

“Not much. Just that I found this place fascinating. The house is rich in architecture and history. I find it almost as intriguing as its owner.”

“You do?” He searched her eyes as she smiled at him. Was she flirting with him? He gave himself a mental jerk. He didn’t need to hook up with her. He just needed her professional expertise. “I have a proposition for you.”

CHAPTER SEVEN

LUCAS HAD BEEN considering his plan all day. Kate obviously needed some immediate monetary assistance plus a roof over her head. And he needed someone to oversee the mansion’s repairs—someone who appreciated its old-world charms. Kate fit that bill perfectly—if only he could forget how tempting her lush lips were.

She eyed him up tentatively. “What sort of proposition do you have in mind?”

“Since you like this place so much, what would you say if I offered you a job working here?”

Confusion reflected in her brown eyes. “You want me to work for you? Even after the run-in with the photographer?”

“Don’t worry. I’ll bet the article will be a small, obscure piece. Hardly anyone will notice it.” He crossed his arms and rocked back on his heels. “As for the arrangement I’m proposing, it can benefit both of us.”

She paused, glancing around the house. He could practically see the wheels in her mind spinning. He’d hired enough people to know when they were eager for a position.

“I...I can’t. My daughter is in the hospital and I need to get this fund-raiser off the ground.”

She did have a very valid point. But there had to be a compromise. He could see how tempted she was to work on the house, and he knew from his experience with stressful situations that a diversion would do her some good.

He cleared his throat. “The thing is, I have a couple of projects with Carrington Gems that are going to take all of my time.” He stopped, realizing his responsibilities paled in comparison to hers. “The real truth is I can run a business, but I don’t know how to turn this mess into a home again.”

A smile touched her lips and her shoulders straightened. “What makes you think I can turn this place around?”

He didn’t want her taking this the wrong way, especially after she thought he’d hired someone to spy on her. He’d have to phrase this carefully. “You got me to really think about this mansion and what my neglect is doing to it. And you mentioned that you have interior design experience. So I checked out some of your prior work. It’s good.”

Surprise lit up her eyes. “Thank you.”

“And I really like your website.”

She smiled broadly. “I built it myself.”

“You’re a woman of many talents. Maybe I should have you consult on Carrington’s upcoming web campaign.”

Interest sparked in her eyes. “Are you launching a new line of jewelry?”

He nodded, not surprised that she was familiar with his company. His father’s lifelong dream had been to make Carrington Gems into a household name. In fact, they still used his father’s slogan—Carrington Gems for the queen of your heart.

“I’d love to see the new jewelry.” Kate’s face lit up with excitement. “Your magazine ads already have a distinctive look. I like that they are never overdone and always tasteful.”

He stood a little taller. Though he had a team that put together the ad campaigns, he was an active member, adding his input here and there. He was after all a Carrington and he had a vested interest in any images that represented his company.

“I’m also in the middle of an expansion project, which needs more attention than I’d anticipated. So you can understand that I won’t be available to oversee things here. However, I’m more than willing to compensate you for your time.”

“My daughter has to be my priority—”

“Of course. We can work around that. Your ex-husband, is he still planning to be at the hospital part of the day?”

Kate nodded. “Actually, I do have a few ideas for the house.”

“What would they be?”

Kate began listing off everything she’d like to do to the house, most of which hadn’t crossed his mind when he’d offered her the job. Yet she had so much passion in her voice that he didn’t want to stop her. The things he’d read about her and her work online didn’t live up to the impressive woman standing before him.

As she continued explaining her vision, he couldn’t believe someone could be so passionate about working on a house. His ex-wife, Elaina, had only ever been this excited about new clothes or jewels. Kate was definitely a different breed.

She paused and looked at him expectantly. “What do you think?”

“If I do what you suggest, will you take the job?”

“A good contractor can take care of everything.”

Lucas shook his head. “I’m not going to let a bunch of people I’ve never met come in here and take over. You’ve already displayed your ability to take charge by getting me to see the condition of the house. You’ll keep those workers in line and make sure that no changes are done without my authorization.”

“I appreciate your faith in my abilities, but I can’t be here every minute of the day while my daughter’s in the hospital.”

He knew he was asking a lot, but he needed to know that his most treasured memories were handled with the utmost care and respect. “You said so yourself—you can’t be there when your ex is with your daughter during the day. I’m offering you a chance to do what you obviously love while earning some money—”

“But what if my ex suddenly decides to skip town, as he’s been known to do in the past?”

“We’ll deal with that if or when we have to. But this will give you something to do besides sitting around, worrying. There’s nothing worse than a day filled with worrisome thoughts and nothing but time on your hands.”

“Sounds like you’re speaking from experience.” When he shrugged but failed to add any details, Kate continued. “And what do I do about the fund-raiser?”

He’d thought about this, too. “I think between my administrative assistant, who is practically a party-planning pro by now, and my aunt, who knows everyone who is anyone, you’ll have time to spare. But if you decide to pass on the job, I totally understand. I’m sure I’ll find someone to oversee things...eventually.”

“This isn’t a wait-and-see problem. One more big rain and you’ll have untold damage. You need a new roof, and who knows what else, today.”

“Does that mean you accept the position?”

* * *

Kate was impressed by the speed and ease with which Lucas solved problems. A snap of his fingers and all was right in the world—except for this time.

As tempting as it was to take on this exclusive job and add it as a crowning jewel in her portfolio, she still had a much bigger problem. She needed money for the operation. And though she didn’t doubt that Lucas’s assistant and aunt could throw together a lavish party, it was still her responsibility. And its success was paramount.

“As much as I’d like to, I can’t accept your offer. I have to concentrate on the fund-raiser.”

Frown lines creased his forehead. “How is that going?”

She shrugged. “The location is going to be a problem as there are a lot of spring weddings taking up the prime locations, not that I have enough for a deposit on the plush venues anyway. I have some phone messages in to other places—I’m just waiting for them to get back to me.”

“I’m sure it’ll all work out.”

She couldn’t help but wonder if he really thought that or if he was just telling her what she wanted to hear. “Connie helped me come up with a theme. It’s going to be a vintage costume party. Hopefully people will have a lot of fun dressing up.”

“My aunt is a great lady to have around to help plan a party. She’s had a lifetime of experience. Between my great-gran, my grandmother and my mother, there was always some sort of social function going on here.”

“Really? I’ve never been to a formal party other than a friend’s wedding.”

“Not even a work function?”

“By the point where I was in a position to be invited to client parties, I had Molly to consider. I didn’t get to spend enough time with her as it was, so I stayed home. We put on an animated movie and ate popcorn.”

“You’re a very dedicated mother.”

Heat flared in her cheeks. “I...uh... Thank you.”

“Don’t worry, you didn’t miss much at those parties.”

Her mouth gaped. “Of course I did. It’s a girl’s dream to get all gussied up and go to the ball. You can say that because you’ve gone to countless parties. Just once I’d like to check it out for myself.”

He chuckled. “Beneath the jeans and T-shirts, I guess you really are a girl.”

She frowned. “You actually had doubts about me being a girl?”

“Not at all. You just struck me as being different from the other women I’ve known.”

“I’m not sure if that’s good or bad.”

“It’s neither.” He cleared his throat, looking exceedingly uncomfortable. “What if I throw in free room and board if you work for me?”

The man certainly didn’t give up easily. “From what I’ve seen in the kitchen, I’d probably starve to death.”

“You’ve got me there. But I have all of the local takeouts on speed dial. And...maybe I’ll entertain some of your design ideas.”

She had to admit she was impressed, but she couldn’t spread herself too thin. She opened her mouth to turn him down...again.

“No.” He held up his hand to silence her. “Don’t answer so quickly, because this will be my last offer and I can see the glint of temptation in your eyes.”

On second thought, her serious consideration of his offer would give her license to browse around. She’d love to check out the closed-up rooms she hadn’t dared explore before. “Do you mind if I look around? To see what I’m getting myself into?”

He waved his hand, granting her free passage. “Help yourself.”

She jumped to her feet and hurried down the hallway. She noticed how he trailed her—so close that the scent of his spicy cologne wrapped around her. She paused in front of the double doors just off the foyer and glanced over her shoulder as though making sure he hadn’t changed his mind about her nosing around the place.

“Go ahead.” His tone was reserved and a bit hesitant.

She turned and pushed the doors open. This was her first glimpse of the living room and she was impressed by its sheer size. Her entire ranch house could fit in this one room with space to spare. And the ceilings were at least twelve feet high, giving the room a wide-open feel.

But there was something not quite right. She scanned the area again, taking in the furniture. Though of high quality, it was too contemporary for the house. And the impressionistic artwork on the walls didn’t quite fit. A stately home such as this deserved to be decorated with items that exuded grace and elegance, not flash and fad.

With no throw covers, everything was coated in heavy dust that tickled her nose and made her eyes water. Beneath the filth, the house looked as though the occupants had gotten up one morning, gone about their day but never returned.

Throw pillows were haphazardly strewn about as though people had tossed them aside and forgotten to pick them up. Even a newspaper was spread across the glass coffee table, open to the sports page. Was that why Lucas lived like he did? Was he waiting for someone to return? A lost love?

Kate recalled him mentioning an ex-wife. Was that it? Was he still grieving the loss of his marriage?

A white-and-pink figurine caught her attention. Drawn to it, like a curious feline to a buzzing fly, she couldn’t stop herself from picking it up. It was of a mother holding her baby girl. Her fingers stroked over the smooth surface. The mother and child were smiling at each other as if they’d just spent a marvelous day together. It touched something deep inside Kate and had her frowning at the thought of never spending another carefree day with her daughter.

“Put it down.”

Kate jumped at the boom of Lucas’s voice. Her fingers tightened around the porcelain figurine to keep from dropping it. With the knick-knack safely returned to the dust-covered end table, she faced Lucas. “You know you’re going to have to learn to trust me or this will never work.”

His expression transformed into one of contrition. “Sorry. I... Oh, never mind.”

She noticed a deep sadness in his eyes and wondered what had put it there. But she knew it was none of her business. He probably didn’t want to talk about his past any more than she did.

“The good news is from what I’ve seen of the downstairs, there’s no damage. The rooms need a thorough cleaning and a fresh coat of paint. How attached are you to the furniture?” She tried to sound impartial just in case he actually liked the pieces.

“It can go as far as I’m concerned. Does this mean you’ve accepted the job?”

Oh, she was certainly tempted. “This place is so big. You know you could clear away the furniture and dance in here.”

“It’s been done before.”

“Really?”

He nodded. “My great-grandmother started the tradition of throwing grand parties here at the house. She considered it her duty to entertain clients of Carrington Gems. She’d think up some of the grandest parties. It didn’t matter the occasion as long as she could get together the city’s movers and shakers to flaunt Carrington’s latest creations.”

Already Kate could imagine the big-band music, the beautiful dresses and glitzy jewelry. “Oh, how I’d have loved to attend. It must have been something.”

“Great-gran was a crafty one. She knew these women were quite wealthy and hated to be outdone by anyone. So my great-grandfather ended up employing the finest craftsmen to design something unique for each of them.”

“Those must have been some grand parties.”

“They were. In fact, there should be pictures of them around somewhere.” He paused as though trying to remember what had happened to them. “Then again, I think they might have been packed away in the attic. Elaina, my ex, didn’t like to have antiques and memorabilia around. She called it clutter.”

Without thinking, Kate blurted out, “Did Elaina by chance redecorate the house?”

Pain showed in his eyes. “I thought it’d make her happy. She made a mess of the house and...” He pressed his lips together as though realizing he’d said too much. In a blink, the glimpse into this man and his closely guarded feelings was once again hidden behind a wall. “About my offer—are you willing to take me up on it?”

Looking around the place, she was filled with ideas. “How would you feel about making a deal?”

“I thought that’s what I’m trying to do. Name your price.”

“It isn’t your money that interests me.” She worried her bottom lip. Should she do this? She had to be crazy, but what did she have to lose?

“What sort of deal do you have in mind?”

“When the work is all said and done, I’d like to borrow your house for an evening.” The words poured out of her mouth like a breached dam, but at least they were now out there. “We could hold the fund-raiser here. In honor of your great-grandmother, we could have a 1920s flapper party—”

“What?” He reared back as though slapped.

“Think about it. You could show off your new line of jewelry.”

“Impossible. I don’t want people parading through my house like it’s some sort of museum. You’ll have to find another way to advertise your interior design work.”

Her hands pressed to her hips. “That’s what you think? That I’m planning to line potential clients down the block to have a look-see at your house? Well, you don’t have to worry—the thought never crossed my mind.”

She had more to say about him misjudging her, but she bit back her tongue. She couldn’t forget how much was riding on her making a successful deal.

He eyed her up as though trying to make up his mind. “Maybe I jumped to the wrong conclusion. But the days of parties being thrown here are over. We’ll find you another venue.”

“Not one with so much allure or history. We could double or triple the ticket price for people to come to the Carrington mansion.” Lucas shook his head, but she couldn’t stop. The ideas were coming hard and fast. Her hands waved around as she talked. “Think about it. This could provide publicity for Carrington Gems, too.”

She didn’t see why they couldn’t both benefit from this production, but she could tell he wasn’t quite sold. Now how would she nudge him into agreement? She didn’t have a clue, but there had to be a way.

“Do you really think people are going to line up to come here?” He glanced around at the dirty surroundings.

“I know it needs a little TLC, but this place will draw in lots of curious folks.”

“I don’t think so.”

Her insides quivered as she stepped up to him. “Please. I’ll beg if I have to.”

CHAPTER EIGHT

A BALL OF SYMPATHY churned in Lucas’s gut. He knew all too well the private hell a parent went through when they felt as if they’d lost control of their child’s well-being. But Kate was asking him to open up his home—a piece of himself—to public scrutiny. His life was already disrupted enough by that magazine article. He didn’t need people he didn’t even know coming in here and whispering behind his back.

He needed time to think. But not here. Not now. He turned on his heels.

“Wait!”

His steps faltered, but he didn’t turn back. He couldn’t. It would be utter torture to witness the desperation written all over her delicate features. Or the disappointment when he denied her what she so badly wanted.

“I’m not finished.” Her voice cracked with emotion. “At least hear me out.”

He didn’t know what else she had on her mind, but he at least owed her the decency of hearing her out. He stopped in the foyer and turned. The desperation on her face ate at his resolve.

“I’m sorry.” She caught up to him. “I don’t mean to pester you. I just... I need to do everything to help my daughter.”

Lucas shifted his weight from one foot to the other. This wasn’t his problem, no matter how bad he felt for her and the awful situation she was facing. He couldn’t let himself get sucked back into the miserable murkiness of helplessness. Yet turning his back on Kate clearly wasn’t an option either.

When the silence dragged on, Kate spoke up. “Do you like my idea about planning a party like your grandmother might have done? You know, displaying the new line of jewelry?”

He actually liked her suggestion a lot. “I’d need to find someone to wear the jewelry.”

“I’m sure you must have some beautiful models on hand. Any woman would die to wear Carrington Gems.”

“But this will have to be done right. The clothes and hair will all have to be choreographed to give the gems the best display possible.”

“You make it sound very planned out.”

“It will be. Trust me. Only the best for Carrington.”

The smile dipped from her face and she suddenly looked quite serious. “Does this mean we have a deal?”

“Not quite.” Though a voice inside him said he was crazy to open his home to the public, business sense told him this personalized campaign might make a big difference to the Fiery Hearts jewelry launch. “I want daily progress reports, including any surprises or unexpected delays. If I find at any point you aren’t completely forthcoming, the deal is off.”

He wasn’t the first client to micromanage a project. Having Lucas looking over her shoulder wasn’t her preferred way to work, but she’d make do. “Not a problem. I can write up a daily summary of our progress.”

“I’d prefer to have these updates in person. Say over dinner each evening.”

“You want us to dine every night?” She hadn’t counted on that and after the kiss in the car, she wasn’t so sure spending time together was a good idea. She wasn’t ready for a relationship—she wasn’t sure she ever would be again. They hurt way too much when they ended.

“Considering we’ll be living here together, I don’t see where that will be such a hardship.”

“But I’ll be at the hospital.”

“No problem. I’m used to eating late. I’ll have something waiting when you get home.” He sent her a don’t-argue-with-me look. “I’ll let you think it over.”

“I don’t need to.” His eyes lit up with surprise, but the truth was she didn’t have any time to waste. This place needed lots of TLC. “It’s a deal. Now would you mind if we went upstairs? I’d like to get your input on some things.”

His head lowered and he spoke in a strangled voice. “I can’t go back up there.”

Not I won’t or some other excuse, but rather I can’t. What was up with that? She was tempted to ask—tempted to ease his pain. But she reminded herself that this was a business relationship. Nothing more.

“Lucas, thank you...for all of this.” When his gaze rose to meet hers, she noticed a poignant sadness in his eyes. “Tell me, what do you plan to do with this house? You know, once it’s fixed up?”

He ran a hand over the back of his neck. “Does it matter?”

“Actually it does. If you’re planning to sell, then the interior should be more neutral to invite people to envision their family and possessions within these walls. But if you have plans of keeping it and living here then we can tailor everything to your taste.”

“It doesn’t matter. Use your best judgment.”

Frustration bubbled up in Kate. She’d never encountered this problem before. Usually her clients had too many ideas—ideas outside of their budget and she’d have to rein them in. And though she was tempted to run with the utter freedom he suggested, something told her that Lucas wasn’t as apathetic to the house’s remodel as he wanted her to believe.

She lifted her chin and looked him straight on. “If you would walk through the rooms with me and give me a basic idea of what you have in mind, I could come up with some sketches for you to look over.”

“I only have one requirement. There’s a room upstairs at the other end of the hallway from yours. I don’t want anyone in there. It’s locked and it’s to remain that way.”

“But this place is filthy. You might not want to paint the room, but we’ll need to clean it.”

“No. I don’t want you going in there. Period.”

What in the world was his hang-up about that room? Had it been the room he shared with the ex-wife? Was he secretly pining for her? Somehow his reaction still seemed over the top.

Perhaps someone had died in the room. If so, that would explain why he was acting so strange. And it’d be a more reasonable explanation for turning this house into some sort of mausoleum. If she were ever to lose Molly... Her heart stuttered and a cold sweat broke out on the nape of her neck. No. She would not go there.

“I’m sorry. I didn’t realize it was important to you.”

He rubbed a hand over his jaw. “It’s just that it’s my...uh, never mind. I just need it left alone.”

“I understand.”

The man might be a little rough around the edges and have a few peculiarities, but she wanted to reach out to him and find out what he’d been on the verge of saying. Still, a nagging voice in the back of her mind warned her not to let her defenses down around him. In her experience, men were basically the same—unreliable.

She’d thought the moon rose and set around her father—how could she have been so wrong? She wanted to tell herself that it was because she was a child and didn’t know any better. But that didn’t explain Chad. She’d utterly and completely fallen for his charm and empty promises. She’d even agreed to his spur-of-the-moment proposal and rushed Las-Vegas-style I dos.

She’d convinced herself that he’d eventually settle down—once they found the right town. But no matter how many jobs he had in this place or that place, none of them suited him.

By the time she became pregnant, she couldn’t remember the address of her latest apartment. She was certain when she told Chad about the baby that it would give him a reason to plant some roots. She’d been so wrong.

He’d been enraged and was convinced that she’d tricked him into getting her pregnant. He’d left that night, only to play a sporadic part in their daughter’s life while he continued to chase his ever-changing dreams.

And now, at this vital juncture in her life, Kate didn’t need any complications. Lucas was one walking string of complications. The first and most important was that he was providing her with the means with which to raise the money for her daughter’s surgery. If their relationship didn’t last—and relationships never did—the price was just too great.

* * *

“Did you see this?”

The following morning, Kate couldn’t tear her eyes from the photo of her and Lucas in the paper. If she’d ever had any doubts about whether that kiss in the car had been a dream, she now had proof. But this picture made the kiss appear less than innocent. In fact, the clench appeared quite steamy—on both sides.

Her cheeks flamed as she recalled his lips moving over hers. The way her stomach had filled with a fluttering sensation. And the way he’d left her longing for more. But that wasn’t going to happen. She wouldn’t let it.

With a frown pulling at her face, she glanced at the photo again. Maybe the photo wasn’t an exaggeration, but it had been a private moment—a lapse in judgment, never to be repeated.

Lucas didn’t say a word as he sipped his coffee, which added to her frustration.

She smacked the paper. “This headline is outrageous. Carrington Heir Snared?” She set aside her steaming mug, feeling the heat of embarrassment rising up her neck and setting her face aflame. “I thought you said if the picture made the paper, it’d be obscure.”

“Don’t let it get to you. It’s not worth getting worked up over.”

“Nothing! How can you call my private life splashed in the news nothing?” Her eyes took in each and every innuendo. She couldn’t stop reading any more than she could stop breathing. “This is going to be a disaster. How am I supposed to face everyone much less ask people for money when this article implies you and I are...you know.”

“Sleeping together.” He supplied the answer so smoothly, so casually as though having the whole world contemplating his sex life was the status quo.

“We have to do something.” Her mind frantically sought out an answer. “We should sue them.”

He shook his head. “First, it would only make this below-the-fold story bigger. And second, they don’t actually lie. We are sleeping together under one roof—”

“But in separate beds.”

“And we were seen leaving here early in the morning.”

“But it wasn’t the wee hours of the morning like they said.”

“You’re splitting hairs. Besides, did you happen to think about spinning this publicity around and using it to your advantage?”

“But I don’t want publicity. I’m happy with my quiet life.”

“Ah, but you’re forgetting about the fund-raiser. You know what they say—any publicity is good publicity. Well, maybe not any publicity, but you know what I mean.”

The scary part was that she did know what he was trying to say. And she didn’t know whether to be angry...or excited.

Maybe she’d misunderstood. “Are you saying we should pose as a happy couple?”

“It’s out there now. You might as well capitalize on the news coverage.”

“And you’re okay with this?”

He shrugged. “I know how to work the press when I need to. It’s all an act for the sake of the fund-raiser and the launch of Fiery Hearts. Why not let it play out?”

She crossed her arms and pursed her lips. She noticed how he never said that he was comfortable with this plan, but he seemed resigned to do his part to help their mutual cause. Instead of being angry with him for putting her in this position, she found herself liking him a little more.

“Kate, if you’re ready to go, I can drop you off at the hospital on my way to the office.”

She shook her head. “I’m not ready to put your plan into action.”

“Even so, you can’t let those reporters dictate how you live your life. And I promise to be a perfect gentleman and keep my hands to myself.”

What worried her more was the thought that she wanted him touching her. She found she liked having him close. Her heart thump-thumped at the memory of him next to her. His finger beneath her chin. His deep, hungry gaze. His lips pressed to hers.

Drawing her meandering thoughts up short, she said the first thing that came to mind. “You should come to the hospital with me. Once I take care of the billing department, we could visit Molly.”

He shook his head. “I don’t think so.”

“Molly wants to meet you. I told her you make the most beautiful jewelry. She wants to know if you make tiaras for princesses.”

“I’m sorry. I can’t meet your daughter today. My schedule is backed up.” He started out of the room. “But I’ll make it up to you.”

“How?”

“You’ll be the first to have a preview of the Fiery Hearts collection.”

“I can’t wait.” She loved jewelry, even if it was only to admire it while window-shopping. “Don’t forget to let me know when you have some free time. Molly would really enjoy meeting you.”

“I won’t forget. Let’s go.”

Five minutes later, Kate settled into the seat of Lucas’s expensive sports car. She loved the buttery-soft leather upholstery, the purr of the powerful engine and most of all, the driver. She watched as Lucas grasped the black shifter. His long, lean fingers drew her attention. Her mouth grew increasingly dry. Why was he getting to her? Was it the tempting thought of what it’d be like to once again be held by those hands? The thought of a mere gentle caress had a sigh slipping past her lips.

“Did you hear me?” Lucas’s deep voice jarred her from her ambling thoughts.

“I was thinking about the article.” It was that darn paper that filled her mind with...things. Bad things.

He slowed to a stop and glanced her way. “Quit worrying. It’ll all be fine.”

She was drawn in by his mesmerizing stare. After all, he was very handsome and very available. Her heart beat faster as heat swirled in her chest and spread out to her limbs. Did he have the heater on in here or what? “Mind if I open the window a crack?”

“Go for it.” He chanced a quick glance her way. “Are you feeling okay? You look a little flushed.”

“I’m fine.” She resisted the urge to fan herself. “Honest.”

She eased the window down and savored the cool morning air. What in the world was up with her? Article or not, since when did she let a man get to her?

In an effort to act normal, she said, “You wouldn’t believe how helpful your aunt has been. When I’m not at the hospital, she checks on Molly for me.”

“I thought your ex was with her.”

Kate shrugged. “He’s supposed to be, but he isn’t exactly reliable. And I don’t want Molly to feel like everyone has forgotten her. So Connie and a couple of the nurses promised to call if Chad decides that sitting with a sick kid isn’t for him.”

“My aunt is very outgoing. She’d help anyone in need. No matter what.”

Kate’s body tensed. Surely he wasn’t implying that she was taking advantage of the woman, was he?

“I didn’t ask your aunt for anything—”

“I’m sure you didn’t. She never had the opportunity to have a family of her own, and since I’m the only relative she has left, she likes to take in strays—”

“Strays! I’m not a stray.” Kate glared at him. “I didn’t need to be taken in. Molly and I have been doing fine on our own.”

He shifted in the driver’s seat. “I didn’t mean that like it sounded.”

“And how did you mean it?” She wasn’t letting him off the hook that easily.

“I just worry. My aunt has a history of taking in the wrong sort of people—people that take advantage of her naïveté. If you hadn’t noticed, my aunt goes through life with rose-colored glasses on. She can’t or won’t see the bad in people.”

Actually Kate had noticed that his aunt was surprisingly trusting and friendly. Lucas didn’t seem interested in offering more about his aunt, and she didn’t want to probe any further.

They pulled up in front of the hospital and Kate noticed Lucas’s shoulders tense as he scanned the area, most likely searching for more photographers. She followed his line of vision, but didn’t see anyone paying them the least bit of attention.

“I’d better hurry. After I confirm some details about the fund-raiser with the billing department, I’m going to stick my head in and say good-morning to Molly before heading back to the house.”

“Won’t your ex be with Molly?”

She nodded. “But it isn’t like we’re mortal enemies.”

“You aren’t?”

“We’ll never be buddies or anything, but we can tolerate each other...at least for a minute or two.”

“And you’re okay with him spending time with Molly after being gone so much of the time?”

With anyone else, she wouldn’t get into this type of conversation, but something told her this was important to Lucas. “Letting Chad back into our lives is the last thing I want. But this isn’t about me. This is about Molly. And she wants him, so who am I to stand between them? But it doesn’t mean I trust him to stick around. Old dogs don’t learn new tricks, no matter how much they might want to at the moment.”

Lucas gazed past her, as though lost in his thoughts.

She got the distinct impression that his relationship with his ex wasn’t so amicable. But if that was the case, why was he alone in a dusty house of memories, pining for her? There were a lot of missing pieces to Lucas’s puzzle. And though she knew better—knew to keep her distance—she was intrigued by him. What was the real story behind New York City’s most eligible bachelor?

CHAPTER NINE

LIFE HAD KATE in the fast lane with no signs of things slowing down.

A week had already passed since Lucas agreed to let her manage the repair work on the house. During that time, they’d fallen into a routine of morning coffee together followed by a late dinner when she got home from the hospital. Sometimes they ate in and sometimes he’d take her out. It was never anything fancy, a little off-the-beaten-path pizzeria or a mom-and-pop diner. She actually enjoyed the warm, inviting atmosphere more than if they’d gone to a high-class establishment where the point was more about being seen than having a relaxing dinner.

But when it came to lunch, she was on her own. Today she didn’t have much of an appetite as she arrived at the hospital for an upcoming meeting with Molly’s surgeon. They were awaiting test results to make sure the procedure was still an option. Kate had prayed long and hard that there wouldn’t be any further complications.

“Kate, did you hear me?” Connie Carrington, Lucas’s kindhearted aunt, smiled at her from the other side of the table in the Hospitality Shop. “I said Lucas is lucky you happened into his life.”

“I didn’t exactly stumble into his life. You had a big hand in that.”

“I did, didn’t I?” The woman smiled broadly. Her bouncy personality didn’t quite jive with her prim and proper appearance. Her short silver hair was swept off to one side. Her smooth, porcelain complexion had just a hint of makeup and a pair of dark-rimmed glasses perched upon her petite nose.

“You sound quite pleased with yourself.”

“My nephew needed his eyes opened before that house collapsed around him. Thank you for making him see sense.”

“I don’t think it was me as much as the dripping rainwater.”

Connie reached across the table and patted her hand. “You, my dear, are good for him.”

She highly doubted that. There was an undeniable vibe between them—more like a magnetic force. But he didn’t seem any more eager to explore their options than she was to get in any deeper. Experience had taught her that once they crossed that line, there would be no going back.

“Regardless, I have a feeling the house is going to be a huge success. I just hope Lucas likes what I’ve done.”

“I’m sure he will. It’s about time that boy lets go of the past and starts living again.”

This was a prime opportunity to ask about Lucas’s history and the story behind that locked room at the end of the hall, but she couldn’t bring herself to do it. She and Lucas were forging a friendship of sorts. If she was going to learn about his past, she wanted it to come from him. She didn’t want to sneak around behind his back.

Connie sipped at her coffee and returned the cup to its saucer. “I meant to tell you that splashy headline in the paper was just the publicity we needed.”

“It was?”

Connie nodded. “Tickets are going fast. A little more of that free exposure and we should be able to sell out.”

Kate lowered her voice. “So you think I should go along with Lucas’s idea to play the happy couple in hopes of gaining more publicity?”

Connie reached out and gave her arm a squeeze. “I do. I really do.”

“I...I don’t know.”

“You’ve already started quite a buzz. People want to meet the mystery woman caught kissing the Bachelor of the Year. Many women have tried to capture my nephew’s attention, but few have ever turned his head. And after the divorce, he’s closed himself off. But you—you’re making a big difference—”

“What difference would that be?” questioned a familiar male voice.

Kate turned. Her face warmed, wondering how much he’d overheard.

When neither of them replied, his searching gaze moved between the two of them. “Is it some big secret you’re sharing?”

Kate’s heart pounded in her chest. She was a miserable liar. Her best defense was silence.

Unable to look Lucas in the eye, she lowered her gaze. She noticed his sharp navy suit was tailored to show off his broad shoulders and tapered for his trim waist. Talk about fine packages. Even fully clothed he was definitely Mr. Oh-So-Sexy.

Realizing that she was publicly ogling him, she reined in her thoughts. What was she doing lusting over him? He was here to be a supportive friend. If it weren’t for him and his aunt, she didn’t know where she’d be or how she’d take care of her daughter.

Lucas and Connie made her feel as though she were no longer alone in this world.

“Heavens, no. We don’t have any secrets.” Connie’s voice wobbled just a bit. “I was telling Kate that even though she isn’t doing the guest list and ticket sales that she’s making the biggest contribution by pulling together the venue.”

“I agree. She’s doing a fantastic job.” Lucas gave her an approving nod. “The downstairs is all cleaned up and the painting has begun.” He smiled, causing the ever-present sadness in his blue eyes to disappear. She wished he looked like that all the time.

“Now, if only the upstairs would go just as fast.” Kate finished off the last of her coffee.

“I’m sure it’ll all come together.”

Lucas’s belief in her abilities meant a great deal to her. And the fact he’d shown up today to show his support totally caught her off guard.

She flashed him her best smile. “I’m so glad you decided to take me up on my offer to meet Molly. It’ll be a nice surprise for her. Wait until she finds out she has a special visitor. And I see the milkshake I ordered for her is waiting at the checkout.”

“But I don’t have time—”

“I’ll hurry.”

Embarrassed by the way she’d nervously chattered nonstop, Kate rushed away. Just because he’d shown up didn’t mean she should read anything into his presence. Should she?

* * *

Before Lucas could explain that he was there to meet his aunt for their regular lunch, Kate was already across the room.

With a resigned sigh, he sat down across from his aunt. “What’s going on here?”

“Kate and I were just discussing the fund-raiser. I’m so glad you agreed to do it at the house. I know that must have been a difficult decision for you, but I’m really proud of you for making the right one. Kate hasn’t had many breaks. And at this moment in her life, she can use all of the help she can get.”

His aunt might be far too trusting of people she barely knew and might always be looking for the good in everyone, but in this instance he thought she might actually be right. He’d observed Kate this past week, and though he’d given her plenty of chances to take advantage of him, whether by sloughing her work off on someone else or by sponging off him or by leaving him with the bulk of the housework, she’d been a stellar employee.

He shifted positions on the hard plastic chair to get a better view of Kate’s slim figure as she stood at the checkout. She was a fine-looking woman. The man who’d walked away from her couldn’t be very smart. And best of all, she was as sweet on the inside as she was on the outside.

He jerked his gaze back to his aunt. “And from what I understand, you’re helping Kate organize this fund-raiser.”

Connie glanced at her wristwatch. “Of course. The girl needs someone to steer her in the right direction. Unless you’re offering to take over.”

Lucas held up both hands. “Count me out. I’m no party planner. Besides, I have urgent matters to deal with at Carrington. The San Francisco project has hit a snag. More like a brick wall.”

His aunt’s gaze narrowed in on him. “You aren’t thinking of skipping town, are you?”

“Would that be so bad? Or don’t you trust Kate after all?”

“I trust Kate. It’s you that worries me.”

“Me. Why me?”

“How long are you going to keep hiding and putting your life on hold? Why aren’t you fighting for custody of your little girl—”

His voice lowered. “You know why. And I don’t want to discuss it any further.”

He thought if anyone would understand his need to do this, his aunt would. She’d saved him from being a pawn between his arguing parents more than once. He wouldn’t do that to his daughter.

“But you are missing so much of Carrie’s life—”

“Leave it.” He fought back his rising temper. “I thought by agreeing to this fund-raiser, it’d make you happy.”

His aunt’s gaze needled him. “You only get one go-around in this life and it goes by in the blink of an eye. Please don’t waste it.”

His palm smacked the tabletop. “I’m not.”

No matter how much he missed his little girl, he had to put Carrie’s happiness above his own, something his parents had never done with him. And right now his ex-wife was hostile on the phone and argumentative in person. If only he could make her see reason.

Connie got to her feet. “Kate’s finished checking out. You better hurry and catch up with her since you two have plans—”

“But we don’t have plans. The only reason I’m here is because you insist we meet here for lunch once a week—even though I’ve offered repeatedly to take you anyplace you’d like.”

“And you were late today. Now it’s time I got back to work.” Connie glanced in Kate’s direction. “She’s waiting for you. You don’t want to disappoint her, do you?”

Before he could argue, his aunt walked away. His gaze immediately sought out the door, but Kate stood between him and the exit. He mentally ran through a list of excuses of why he had to leave. Each excuse sounded more pathetic than the last.

He straightened his shoulders. Time to make a confession. He approached Kate, who was holding a tall cup with a lid and a straw. She’d understand everything once he explained about the mix-up. After all, misunderstandings happened all the time.

She glanced up and a smile bloomed on her face. The color in her cheeks and the light in her eyes touched something deep inside him—a place that had felt dead up until now. He didn’t want her to stop smiling, not now...not ever.

“Are you ready to go?” Kate motioned toward the door.

He should speak up...explain that he’d only come here to visit with his aunt. That he had no intention of venturing into the pediatrics unit full of tiny humans—little ones like his Carrie. His mouth opened, but when Kate grabbed his hand, giving him a gentle tug, the words balled up in his throat. He glanced over his shoulder at Connie, but she wasn’t paying any attention as she took food orders from customers.

His gut churned. He was backed into a corner with no easy way out. Maybe he could just say a fast “Hi” and then be on his way. In and out. Fast as can be.

“I...I can’t stay long.”

Kate’s eyes lit up. Her lips pursed as though a question teetered on the tip of her pink tongue. His breath hitched in his throat. Please don’t ask any probing questions. Not here. Not now.

Kate’s face smoothed. “We can take the steps if you think it’ll be faster.”

He exhaled a long-held breath. He understood the strain Kate was under...more so than he’d ever want to admit. He shook his head, resigned to wait for one of the four elevators. As though summoned by his thoughts, a chime sounded and the door in front of him slid open.

Like the gentleman his mother raised him to be, he waited for Kate to step inside. His gut churned with anxiety. On stiltlike legs, he followed her.

“Are you okay?” Kate asked, drawing him out of his thoughts.

They were standing alone in the elevator as it slowly climbed to the fifth floor. He kept his eyes on the row of numbers above the door, watching as they lit up one after the other.

“I’m fine.”

“Really? Because ever since we got in the elevator, you look stiff and uncomfortable. And the frown on your face will scare the kids in pediatrics.”

He hadn’t realized his thoughts had transferred to his face. Willing himself to relax, he tried changing his stance and forced his lips into what he hoped was a smile.

Kate turned to him. “You know you don’t have to do this. If you’ve changed your mind about meeting my daughter, just say so.”

Apparently he hadn’t done a good enough job of putting on a more pleasant expression because right now, Kate’s eyes were filled with doubt. He didn’t want to add to her list of concerns. After all, this was a quick visit. Soon it’d all be nothing more than a memory.

“How’s your daughter doing?” He was truly eager to hear an update on the little girl, hoping things were improving.

“Today we get the results of her latest scan to see if the treatments are shrinking the tumor.”

“Will that make the surgery easier?”

Kate straightened her shoulders. “That’s what I’m told.”

He wondered if Molly was the spitting image of her mother. Did her eyes light up like her mother’s when she was excited? Did her cheeks fill with color when paid a compliment? And when she was concentrating while working with her hands, did the tip of her tongue press against her bottom lip?

Lucas drew his thoughts up short. He couldn’t believe in the limited time he’d spent with Kate that he’d gotten to know so much about her.

The elevator dinged and the doors opened. Kate exited the elevator and turned back to him, still leaning against the handrail. “Are you coming?”

He swallowed hard and stepped out onto the pediatrics floor. There was no doubt about which unit they were in as a painted yellow giraffe with brown spots covered the wall, stretching from floor to ceiling, followed by a hippo, tiger and zebra. Large, leafy trees and tufts of grass were painted in the background. Someone had spared no expense in giving the tiny patients the feeling they were anywhere but at a hospital.

His thoughts took a sudden turn back to his own daughter. Would she like the painting? Did she like giraffes? What was painted on the walls of her bedroom?

The fact he knew none of these answers angered him. He should know. Any father worth the name Dad should know this about their child. Yet, Elaina had stolen those moments from him. And worse yet, he’d let her.

He used to think it was the sacrifice he had to make, but being around Kate and listening to her talk about her daughter, he had to wonder if there was another choice he could make.

“Molly’s room is at the end of this wing.” Kate pushed open one of the double doors.

He followed her past the nurses’ station in the center of the floor. A collective buzz of children’s voices filled his ears. He’d made sure to avoid kids since he’d come back from California—since he’d confronted his ex-wife.

His steps slowed. The distance between him and Kate widened. The giggle of a little girl filled his head. He paused and glanced as the child sat on the edge of her bed. She had curly blond locks like Carrie’s and was smiling at someone. His daughter had never smiled at him like that. The knowledge stabbed him in the chest, robbing him of his breath.

“Lucas,” called out Kate.

He meant to keep moving, but he was drawn by this little girl. Her sweet smile threw daggers into his heart. Instead of smiles, Carrie had looked at him with tears in her eyes as Elaina raised her voice, shook a finger in his face and insisted he leave.

Pain churned inside him as though someone had reached down his throat and ripped out his heart. A cold, aching spot remained. He closed his eyes and turned away from the little girl. He shouldn’t have come here. This was a mistake. He needed to leave. Now.

Kate reached out and touched his arm. “Molly’s room is just a few more doors down this hallway.”

The heat of her touch seeped through his suit coat. He glanced at Kate. Her eyes pleaded with him. He wanted to do this for her more than he could say, but the trickle of the little girl’s laughter was his undoing. He needed to get out of there. He needed to breathe.

“I’m sorry. I can’t.”

With that he turned, jerking his arm from her touch. He could feel her lethal gaze shooting daggers into his back. He deserved her anger and so much more.

He’d failed Kate and he hadn’t even had the nerve to explain it to her. Although it wasn’t as if she’d understand. Her daughter loved her. Looked up to her. Trusted her.

He inwardly groaned as the thought drove home the pain and guilt. If he was doing the right thing for Carrie, why did it feel so wrong?

Unwilling to wait for the elevator, he took to the stairs. He raced down them as though the hounds of hell were nipping at his heels.

Kate would think he was a total jerk. And maybe she was right. Perhaps there was something inherently wrong with him that drove away his ex-wife. And now his child.

CHAPTER TEN

KATE SWUNG THE hammer with more force than was necessary, missing the nail and putting a small half-moon indentation in the plaster. Just what she needed, something else to fix. It’d been two days since the incident at the hospital and she was still fuming. It was Lucas’s fault. He’d made a point of avoiding her, rushing off to the office early and receiving an urgent phone call and hurrying out the door just as she returned home for dinner. He assured her it was important business, but she didn’t know if she believed him.

Her mind warned her that Lucas was a typical man—unreliable. Why in the world had she let herself believe that he’d be any different than the other men who passed through her life? They said what they thought she wanted to hear and yet when it came to following through with their promises, they never did.

Lucas might clean up nice with his tailored suits and polished dress shoes, but beneath all of that varnish, he was just another lying man. She grabbed a nail, positioned it along the new chair rail and swung the hammer. Hard. Once again, she’d let her guard down and thought she could trust him. She swung the hammer again, hitting the nail dead center. When would she ever learn not to trust men?

She took another whack at the nail, shoving it further into the wall. Not about to ruin the chair rail with a ding from the hammerhead, she looked around for a nail set. Not finding one handy, she grabbed a scrap piece of wood from the floor, positioned it over the nail and swung again.

“What did that piece of wood do to you?”

Lucas. She’d know his deep, rich voice anywhere. Any other time it’d have washed over her like warm maple syrup—sweetening her up. But not today.

She didn’t bother to stop and face him. Another couple of taps and the nail was flush with the wood. “It got damaged from the leaky roof and had to be replaced.”

“That isn’t what I meant. Seems like you’re taking your anger out on that nail. Did something go wrong with the renovations?”

“No.” The fact that he was acting all Mr. Innocent drove her nuts. “I have everything under control.”

“Listen, I know I’ve been busy, but it couldn’t be helped. With the party coming up, we’ve had to kick up the media blitz for the new jewelry line.”

So that was how it was going to be. Act as if nothing happened. She should have predicted this. Her ex swept any trouble under the carpet and pretended as if it never happened. Well, not today. Something had happened and she wasn’t about to forget it.

She set aside the hammer and stood. “Don’t do this.”

“Do what? Ask about the progress on the house?”

“No. Avoid me and then act like there isn’t a problem between us.”

A muscle twitched in his cheek. “I wasn’t avoiding you. Honest. My marketing director went on an early maternity leave and everyone is pitching in to pick up the slack with the upcoming campaign—”

“Stop. This isn’t about your business. This is about you skipping out on me at the hospital without so much as an explanation.”

“I...I’m sorry.” He looked as though he was searching for the right words. “I wanted to meet your daughter but...”

“But what?” He seemed sincere and she really did want to understand. “Talk to me.”

“I can’t. Not now. Just please believe it had nothing to do with you or Molly. I’ll make it up to you. I promise.”

The little voice in her head said not to believe him, but her gut said something else entirely. Not sure which to trust, she decided she needed time to think without him clouding her thoughts with the pleading look in his blue-gray eyes.

“Thank you for your apology, but I don’t have time to talk now. I need to finish replacing this chair rail.”

“It looks like you’ll have this place in tip-top shape in no time.”

“I wouldn’t jump to any conclusions yet. There’s a lot to do and if we’re going to showcase the tunnel, we’ll need every single minute before the party.”

“The tunnel?”

Kate made a point of inspecting her handiwork. Finding a nail that wasn’t quite flush, she grabbed the hammer and the scrap piece of wood and gave it a whack. “Surely you know about the prohibition tunnel beneath the house.”

“Of course I do. But my family liked to pretend it didn’t exist. I’m surprised you know about its existence.”

Kate cocked a smile. “You really need to read more often. You’d be surprised what you learn.”

“I read the Wall Street Journal every day.”

“Something tells me that prohibition tunnels wouldn’t be of interest to that paper.”

“Wait. Are you trying to tell me that you read about my house and my family in the paper?”

“Not exactly. Your aunt mentioned that the place had quite a history. And then I did some research online. You’d be amazed at what is put online these days. This house is just teeming with history.”

Lucas raked his fingers through his hair, scattering it in a haphazard fashion. “Great. Isn’t anything private anymore?”

“Quit grumbling and come check it out.” She started for the door. When she didn’t hear Lucas following, she turned back. “You have to see all of the work the men did on the tunnel—from rewiring the lighting to replacing the rotted wood. Although to be honest, it’s more like a long skinny room than a tunnel.”

Lucas let off an exasperated sigh, but she knew once he explored the hidden tunnel, he’d be as impressed as the rest of them. She led him to the back stairs that was constructed of stained wood. But it was the small landing that was a beautiful maze of inlaid wood.

“Someone was very clever,” she said, coming to a stop by a sunset-inspired stained-glass window. “I’m guessing it was your great-grandfather’s idea to create such an artistic floor pattern. If I hadn’t known to look, I never would have guessed the center section opens up.”

Sticking her finger in a discreet thumbhole, she lifted the wood panel. Inside was a rustic wood ladder.

“Don’t worry. The ladder is safe. The men just finished the repairs today and I haven’t had a chance to look around. You must be familiar with it.”

“Actually, I’ve never been down there. My grandfather had the entrance sealed. I’m surprised the workmen were able to open it up without damaging the wood.”

“Believe me, it took a while and lots of care. But I think they did an excellent job. Let me be the first to give you the grand tour.” She didn’t bother to wait for him to make up his mind. She started her descent.

Entering this rustic area was like stepping back in time. She let her imagination run wild, thinking of the old-timers trying to outsmart the cops. The Roaring Twenties must have been a very interesting era, especially for the Carringtons with their hidden tunnel.

Kate rubbed her bare arms. There was a distinct drop in the temperature down here. She was certain the goose bumps were from the chill in the air and had absolutely nothing to do with her view of Lucas’s long legs or toned backside as he descended the ladder.

She gazed around, imagining the wooden racks lined with bottles. “Back here there’s a rack with some very old wine. Seems it was shuffled out of the way and forgotten.”

“Interesting. Did you uncover anything else?”

“Afraid not.”

He moved closer to get a better look. It wasn’t until then that she noticed how tight the quarters were down there. Lucas’s broad shoulders filled the space between the brick wall and the wooden shelves. There was no getting around him. And there was no room to back up.

Lucas’s spicy cologne teased her senses. How could one man look and smell so good? And why did her body so readily respond to him? She knew better than to let her guard down around him. Perhaps inviting him down here was not the best idea.

“That’s all there is. We should go.”

Lucas glanced up from the bottle of wine he was examining. His gaze met hers. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were afraid to be so close to me.”

The problem was she liked it too much. If they stayed down here much longer, she was afraid she’d abandon her common sense and cave into her body’s lusty desires.

“I...I have work to finish.”

“I’m going to look around here a little more.”

He returned the dusty bottle to the rack and turned, signaling her to pass him. Anxious to make her escape, she moved. By the time she figured out there wasn’t enough room for them to modestly pass, her body was sliding over his. Toe to toe. Thigh to thigh. Chest to chest.

The temperature suddenly rose. Her gaze caught his. Did she stop moving? Or had time slowed down?

“Kate.” His voice was raw and full of unmistakable desire.

She’d lied to herself. That first kiss was unforgettable. The memories flitted through her mind every night. What would it hurt to let him kiss her again? Just to see if it was as good as she remembered.

Her heart pounded, echoing in her ears. Her breath hitched. She was playing with fire. She should move. Leave. Run. She didn’t want to get burned. But she couldn’t turn away from his hungry gaze.

His head dipped. Her eyes fluttered shut. Curiosity and desire collided, holding her in place. And then he was there. His touch was warm and gentle as his lips brushed over hers. No kiss had ever felt so heavenly. Her insides melted and pooled in the center. If she weren’t pinned between his hard chest and the wall, she was quite certain her legs wouldn’t have held her up.

But all too soon reality rumbled through her dream. The memory of how he had walked away from her at the hospital shattered the moment. She couldn’t do this. Not with him.

She couldn’t trust him.

Ducking her head, she moved to the ladder. With lightning speed, she rushed up the rungs and hurried back to the library, hoping Lucas wouldn’t follow. She willed her heart to slow. For her lips to quit pulsating. Most of all, she needed to think clearly. And with Lucas around, her thoughts became a jumbled heap.

* * *

What in the world had just happened?

Had he dreamed that one succulent moment? He ran his tongue over his lower lip, tasting the sweetness of Kate’s cherry lip balm. A frustrated groan rumbled in his chest. He’d given his word that he wouldn’t let something that foolish happen again. Yet every time Kate came close and he could smell her fruity shampoo and feel the heat of her touch, logic evaded him.

Now that his ill-laid plan had gone awry, he couldn’t leave things like this. He started up the ladder, wondering what he should say to her. “I’m sorry” just didn’t seem enough, but he had to try. With the wood plank back in place, he headed for the library.

He rolled his shoulders, trying to ease the tension running through them. He was making too much of this. It was barely even a kiss. No big deal.

When he strode into the library, Kate once again had a hammer in one hand and some trim in the other. He waited for her to turn. When she didn’t, he cleared his throat.

“About what just happened, I just want you to know that I shouldn’t have overstepped—”

“It was nothing.” She kept her back to him, shielding her facial expression. “Now you see why I think the tunnel would hold a lot of appeal for people.”

She waved off his kiss as if it was nothing—as if it hadn’t meant a thing. The thought that this thing—this growing attraction—was all one-sided pricked him. His jaw tightened and his body tensed. Why was she being this way? He wasn’t the only one who felt something.

Kate swung around to face him with the hammer still in her hand. “Do you have a problem with the plans?”

Lucas found himself eyeing the business end of the hammer. If she meant to gain his attention, she’d certainly done that. Not that he couldn’t easily overpower her. After all, she was inches shorter than him and looked to be as light as a feather. Only feathers didn’t have so many delicious curves. Kate’s waist dipped in above the flare of her hips, and his fingers itched to wrap around her and pull her close. He was tempted to remind her that though the kiss had been brief, it’d definitely ignited a flame.

He straightened his shoulders. “And what if I do have a problem with all of this?”

“You’re backing out on me now?” Kate’s features hardened and he couldn’t help but notice how her knuckles turned white as her grip on the hammer tightened. “You can’t do that. I won’t let you. We have a verbal agreement. If you even think of backing out now, I’ll...I’ll...”

He smothered a chuckle as her threat lost steam. Not wanting to add fuel to her rising temper, he willed his lips not to lift into an amused grin. She sure was cute when she was worked up. Maybe it wouldn’t hurt to egg her on a little more.

“Should I be worried?”

“You already agreed to this party. It’s too late to back out now. I already gave my word to the hospital that I’d have the funds for the operation.”

Her words hit him with more sting than any blow from a hammer. She was right. How was he supposed to put up an argument now when faced with a little girl’s well-being?

As though remembering the hammer was still in her hand, Kate bent over and placed it on the white drop cloth lining the floor. She straightened and tilted her chin upward. “Besides, your aunt thinks the prohibition tunnel will play in nicely with the 1920s flapper theme.”

“That’s what I’m afraid of,” he mumbled.

As though he hadn’t spoken a word, Kate continued, “She also said that at last some good would come from the Carrington history.”

He didn’t like being ganged up on by his aunt and his... What was Kate to him? A friend? She was closer to him than he let anyone get these days. But friend didn’t seem to fit what they had either. Especially not after that brief but stirring kiss.

Just then Kate leaned toward him. He froze. What was she planning to do? His gaze slipped down to her lips. They were full and rosy, just perfect for another sweet kiss. Anticipation grew. Was it possible she’d enjoyed his touch more than she’d been letting on?

His breath hitched as she moved closer. Her hand reached out to him. What was she going to do? Pull him down to her?

The thought of her being so bold...of her taking control of the situation turned him on. His eyes drifted closed. All semblance of logic fled his brain. He waited for her to make her move, willing her to keep going.

Long-ignored desires roared through his heated veins. After all, they were alone and it was late in the evening. No one would bother them until morning. And it had been so long since he’d let his defenses down—since he’d been close with anyone.

“There. All taken care of.”

Lucas’s eyes sprang open. What was taken care of? Certainly not his needs—his desires.

“Don’t worry.” Kate held out a white piece of fuzz for his inspection. “At first, I was worried that it was some spackling, but it’s just lint. Your suit has been saved.”

His suit? That wasn’t what he was concerned about at this moment. His clothes might be fine, but his mind and body were a jumbled mess. He swallowed hard, working hard to control his wayward thoughts.

“Why are you working so late?” His voice came out much harsher than he’d intended.

Kate’s brown eyes flashed with surprise. “I had things to do.”

“You’re supposed to be overseeing the project, not doing all of the work yourself.”

Her hands pressed against her slender hips and her eyes narrowed in on him. “I’m doing what needs to be done. Unlike some people in this room, I keep my word.”

Her barbed comment didn’t go unnoticed by him. She was still ticked at him about the episode at the hospital. He should explain to her what had happened. But that would only lead to more questions...questions he didn’t want to answer.

Not now.

Not ever.

When he didn’t respond, she added, “You know, if you didn’t want to meet my daughter, all you had to do was say so in the first place.”

“But I wanted to—”

Lucas stopped. His jaw tightened, his back teeth grinding together. What was he saying? This wasn’t going to make things better for either of them. But the damage had been done.

An inquisitive gleam showed in her eyes. “What do you mean you wanted to? Why’d you change your mind?”

He glanced away and shuffled his feet. His gut told him that she wasn’t going to drop the subject until he fessed up. But how could he do that? He didn’t talk about his past with anyone...not even his aunt.

“Surely you have something to say for yourself.” Her tone was hard and sharp.

He didn’t like being pushed around. His ex-wife had known his vulnerabilities and used them for her own benefit. He wouldn’t allow someone else to take advantage of him again.

Kate could push and shove as hard as she wanted, but he wouldn’t give in...not until he was ready.

“I’m tired. And I still have reports to go over. There’s Chinese takeout on the counter if you want some. And just so you know, I am truly sorry.”

He turned away from the confused look in her eyes, telling himself that he didn’t care. This woman meant absolutely nothing to him.

Nothing. At. All.

But if that was the case, why as he yanked the door shut behind him did he feel like a total heel? And why did he want a chance to make things right with her?

CHAPTER ELEVEN

HE’D TOTALLY OVERREACTED.

So what if he’d lost his mind for a moment and kissed her again? It didn’t mean he was falling for her big brown eyes or her cherry lips. The whole lack of judgment thing could be written off to a few restless nights and the stress of not bringing in enough money to cover the overages regarding the San Francisco expansion.

Days passed and with each day that went by, Lucas noticed that they were falling back into an easy routine. Pretending they hadn’t shared yet another even more intense lip-lock seemed to work during the day, but at night, when he should be sleeping, images of Kate and her tempting kisses filled his thoughts.

“Sorry I’m late.” She rushed into the kitchen after returning from her visit to the hospital. “You didn’t have to wait to eat. In fact, I’m not really hungry.”

“I have plans for us tonight. Instead of the food coming to you, you are going to the food.”

She shook her head before sinking down onto a kitchen chair. “I’m sorry. I’m too tired to go anywhere.”

Dark shadows under her eyes sent up warning flares. Maybe asking her to work on the house was too much for her.

He realized that in his attempt to avoid his unwanted attraction to her, he’d failed to do his duty as her boss—and, dare he admit it, as her friend. He’d let her work herself into the ground while he’d been busy at the office. He had to fix this, but how?

“No problem. When you get your appetite back, I’ll get you whatever you want.” He sat down next to her. “Your wish is my command.”

With her elbows propped on the table, she rested her chin on her upturned palms. Was it exhaustion that had her so down? Or did she have bigger things on her mind? Was it Molly? Had her health taken a turn for the worse? His chest tightened.

“How’s Molly today?”

Kate’s eyes widened. “How did you know that’s what I had on my mind?”

“What else would you be thinking about?” Unlike him, she probably hadn’t fantasized the afternoon away, imagining the temptation of another kiss.

“Molly’s refusing the surgery.”

This news set him back. “What do you mean refusing?”

“Well, she didn’t put it in those terms. But she’s moody and depressed. She’s insisting on going home and I can’t blame her. She’s been poked, prodded and examined for months now.”

He’d have a hard time dealing with that and he was an adult. He didn’t know how a child could put up with visiting doctor after doctor. Children were supposed to be outside, running around in the fresh air playing dodgeball or jumping rope, whatever it was that little girls liked to do.

“I’m sorry. That can’t be easy for either of you. Did you tell her that it won’t be much longer?”

Kate nodded. Her eyes glistened with unshed tears. “What am I going to do? They say with tricky surgeries that the patient’s attitude plays a huge role in the recovery.”

He didn’t have any experience with sick people or surgeries. He’d been a kid when his grandparents passed on. And his father died of a massive coronary at his desk at the Carrington offices. So all he could do was try to remember what it felt like to be a kid. And his favorite memories were of the times when he’d been with his aunt.

A thought sprang to mind. “Why don’t you give Molly something to look forward to?”

Kate narrowed her gaze on him. “Don’t you think that’s what I’ve been trying to do?”

“You aren’t understanding me. What if you give her something to dream about? A plan for when she gets out of the hospital?”

“I’m running low on brilliant ideas. And by the time Molly is out of the hospital, I won’t have two pennies to rub together much less money for a trip to Disneyland.”

This was a small way he could help Kate. “You don’t have to spend a lot to make your little girl happy. And you don’t have to visit Sleeping Beauty Castle either.”

Kate jerked upright. “How would a bachelor like yourself know about Sleeping Beauty Castle?”

He wasn’t about to tell her that he too had a little girl and when he used to read her bedtime stories, he’d promised to take her there when she got a little older.

“Who doesn’t know about the castle?” he bluffed. “It’s in almost every Disney commercial. But what I was trying to say is that you don’t need that. You could plan a whole vacation right here in New York City.”

“You may not notice the cost, but dinners out and show tickets add up quickly.”

“But there are other options.”

Kate rolled her eyes. “If you are going to tell me to take Molly window-shopping, save your breath. That will never fly. She’ll want everything she sees.”

“I can assure you that good times don’t have to cost a fortune.”

“And what would you know about it? You probably grew up with the proverbial silver spoon in your mouth.”

“You might be surprised to know that my childhood didn’t have as many silver spoons as you’d imagine.”

She paused and eyed him up. “There’s no way you’re going to convince me that your family sent you out into the world to earn bread money.”

Her words pricked his good mood, deflating it. “Money isn’t everything. Sometimes I think it would have been better to be born into a different family, one who didn’t worry so much about money and appearances. Maybe then my parents wouldn’t have...”

“Wouldn’t have what?”

He glanced up to find genuine concern in her eyes. He hadn’t meant to open this door to his past. Some things were best unsaid. But in this one particular case, his past might show Kate just how good she and her daughter have it.

He sighed. This still wasn’t going to be easy. “Maybe without Carrington Gems and the status that came with it, my parents wouldn’t have gotten divorced. But even after they got divorced, things didn’t get much better. They still fought, mostly over me.”

“I’m sorry.”

Not about to get into how they’d turned him into a spy for each of them, he continued, “It was during this period that my aunt would whisk me away. She could see that I wasn’t happy. So she’d take me on day trips around the city.”

Kate waved away his idea. “I’m sure it was nice. But if I want to distract Molly and give her something to look forward to, it’s got to be better than a walk in the park and a push on the swings. Besides, when she gets out of the hospital, we’ll be heading back to Pennsylvania. This job is great, but it’ll be over soon. I have to think about either getting my old position back or finding a new one.”

He frowned at the thought that one day soon Kate would be gone. He was getting used to having her around. Not that he was getting attached to her or anything. He just liked having someone at home with whom to share a meal and make conversation.

Still, he’d like to see that Kate and her daughter had good memories to take home with them. His idea would take some convincing. However, seeing something with one’s own eyes was always more persuasive than a sales pitch.

Yes, that’s what he’d do—show Kate a good time.

* * *

The next morning, Kate was back working in the library, mulling over how to cheer up Molly. She liked that Lucas had been there pitching helpful ideas. Most of all, she liked that he’d opened up some about his childhood. Things must have been bad if his aunt felt she had to get him out of the house. Her heart went out to that little boy who’d been in such an unhappy situation.

“Let’s go.”

Her head jerked up at the sound of Lucas’s voice. “What are you doing here?”

“I came to pick you up.”

She straightened, not recalling that they’d had any plans. Yet he was standing there midmorning in a dark pair of jeans, which accented his athletic legs, and he’d unbuttoned his blue collared shirt and rolled up the sleeves. What in the world had gotten into him? And why did she find herself staring at him like some starstruck high-schooler? Probably because it should be against the law to look that good.

His blue eyes twinkled with mischief. “Well, are you just going to stand there smearing paint everywhere?”

She glanced down, finding the paint stick she’d been using to stir the white paint for the trim dripping all over the drop cloth. She hurried to set it aside and put the lid back on the can. Something told her that she wouldn’t be doing any painting until Lucas left, not if she wanted to get the paint on the walls and not the floor.

That was one thing about this project that she really enjoyed, being able to work with her hands. At her old job she’d done the sketches, consulted with the owners and supervised the transformation. But she hadn’t rolled up her sleeves and dived in with the detail work. When she finished with this project, it truly would be the crowning accomplishment in her portfolio. First, though, she had to get it finished. Too many things were riding on her bringing this project in on schedule.

“I can’t go anywhere. I have work to do.” She pressed her hands to her hips.

“You need a break.”

“What I need is a few more hours in the day.”

“I thought you might say that so I’d like you to meet Hank and Mike.” Two men in white overalls stepped into the doorway. “They can paint or whatever it is you need them to do.”

“But I can’t just leave.”

Lucas grabbed her hand and pulled her toward the door. “We have to hurry—”

“Is it Molly? Did something happen—”

“No. Nothing like that. This is all good. I promise.” He sent her a reassuring smile that made her stomach dip. “Go get changed while I make a quick phone call. We have someplace to be.”

“I need to have a few words with these guys.”

Lucas frowned.

“It’ll only take a minute.”

“Hurry.” He turned and strode away.

Minutes later, dressed in fresh jeans and a pink blouse, Kate stepped outside. The bright sunshine warmed her skin. With just a gentle breeze, it was warm enough to venture out without a jacket.

As they made their way down the sidewalk, she couldn’t hold back her curiosity. She stepped in front of Lucas and turned. “I’m not going any further until you tell me where we’re headed.”

“Didn’t your mother ever teach you to wait patiently for your surprise?”

“My mother didn’t do surprises. Let’s just say she had an active social life and kids didn’t really fit into the equation.”

Lucas’s lips pressed into a firm line. “If it makes you feel any better, I know where you’re coming from. My mother wasn’t big into the parenting scene either, unless it fit some sort of social agenda.”

Their conversation dwindled as they started to walk again. Destination unknown. Kate gave up worrying about it and lifted her face up to the sun. The exercise and the sunshine were working wonders on her mood. The tension in her neck and shoulders eased away.

In no time at all, Lucas was taking her by the hand and leading her through Central Park. “Come on.”

This was his surprise? A trip to the park? Her good mood dimmed as she thought of how much Molly would enjoy this adventure. “What are we doing here?”

“I’ll show you.” He led her over to a beautiful white horse-drawn carriage and held out his hand. “We’re going for a ride.”

“Are you serious? But why?” She hesitated. “I shouldn’t be here.”

Lucas’s dark brows drew together. “Why?”

“Because it isn’t right. Not with Molly in the hospital.”

He nodded as though he understood. “I guess I didn’t think this through. Would you rather go see her?”

“Yes...but I can’t. This is Chad’s agreed time with her. And she likes having her dad around. And I...I don’t do so well with his occasional snide little comments.”

“Well, since you can’t see Molly yet, consider this a research project.”

“Research?”

“Sure. I’m showing you how to have a good time without spending a fortune. You didn’t believe me so I decided to show you.”

“This can’t possibly be that cheap.”

“You’d be surprised. It’s actually reasonable. Although the price does go up if you reserve a carriage for a specific time or have some extras thrown in.”

Kate was impressed as she climbed in the carriage with a plush red interior. The driver, all decked out in white tails and a hat, closed the door for them. Instead of fighting it and thinking of everything she should be doing, she settled back on the seat and enjoyed the moment.

Now, she truly felt like Cinderella. Wait, that would make Lucas her Prince Charming, and she’d already decided that could never be. As the horses’ hooves clipped along, she shoved the troubling thought to the back of her mind. Why ruin this one magical moment with reality?

A few minutes later, Lucas leaned over to whisper in her ear. “Are you enjoying your surprise?”

His breath tickled her neck, sending an army of goose bumps down her arms. “I am.” The admission rolled easily off her tongue. “But I don’t know if Molly would be excited about a carriage ride.”

“Sure she would. What little girl wouldn’t want to ride in a horse-drawn carriage?”

“Perhaps.”

“I guess I’ll just have to work a little harder. I’m sure I can come up with an idea or two sure to impress a little girl and a big one, too.”

Kate’s stomach fluttered. Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad to let herself imagine that Lucas was her Prince Charming and this was the carriage taking her to the ball. After all, fairy tales weren’t true. Everyone knew that. This would just be pretend.

When Lucas stretched his arm out behind her, she gave in to the dream and leaned back. Her head rested on him and shivers of awareness cascaded down her spine. She closed her eyes, willing this moment to go on and on. They could just keep going, leaving their troubles behind. A smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she envisioned them riding off into the sunset together. If only fairy tales came true...

“And what has you smiling?”

Kate’s eyelids fluttered open. She’d been busted. It was almost as if he could read her thoughts, but even if he could, there was no way she’d confirm how she’d been daydreaming about him pulling her closer and pressing his lips to hers.

She crossed her fingers before telling a fib like she’d done as a child. “Just enjoying the day.”

All too soon the ride was over. Lucas gave her a hand down. It was then that she realized they hadn’t stopped in the same spot where they’d started.

“It’s time for lunch and I know the perfect thing to have on our outing.”

He treated her to a hot dog with the works. They settled on a park bench and quietly ate while the world went by without any notice of them. When they’d finished, Lucas took her by the hand and they started walking. He smiled, appearing very relaxed. She hadn’t seen him in this good of a mood since...well, ever.

After they’d walked a little ways, she couldn’t contain her curiosity. “Where are we going now?”

“You’ll see in just a moment.”

Soon carousel music lilted through the air, giving the day a surreal feeling as though all was right in the world.

“Come on.” He pulled her closer to the colorfully painted merry-go-round.

“Why?”

“You’ll see.”

How could she resist when he looked like an excited child himself? Laughter bubbled up in her throat, and she let him lead her by the hand. But when he paid for her to ride the merry-go-round, she hesitated.

“I can’t ride that.”

“Why not?”

“It’s for kids.”

“Are you trying to tell me that you aren’t a kid at heart? Besides, you wanted examples of things you can do with Molly on a budget. This is one of them.”

“True.” She really did like the idea. She’d been to a carnival as a little kid with her father and she’d loved riding the carousel, especially the horses that went up and down. “But that doesn’t mean that I have to ride one.”

“Give me your phone.”

“What? Why don’t you use your own?”

“It will be simpler this way.”

“What will?” The man certainly wasn’t explaining himself very well today.

“I’m going to take some photos for you to show Molly.”

“I don’t know.” What would Molly think? Her mother off playing without her. Guilt riddled her. “What if it upsets her?”

“You have a good point.” Then he snapped his fingers. “I’ve got it. Just don’t show her the pictures with you in them. And make sure you promise to bring her here as soon as she’s healthy enough.”

Kate wasn’t so sure. But so far nothing else was helping to cheer up her little girl. Even the surprise of her father showing up had worn off. Kate was getting desperate to give her daughter hope. Maybe Lucas was right. Maybe this outing would give her the ability to paint a picture in her daughter’s mind of the fun things they could do...together.

She wouldn’t be an absentee parent like her father...or her mother. Even though they had shared the same house, her mother had been so wrapped up in her own world that she’d never had time for Kate.

She glanced over at Lucas. What would he be like as a father? Probably terrific, if today was any indication. Not that she would be sticking around to find out.

While riding the merry-go-round, she noticed a small crowd forming nearby. Cameras were flashing. It took her a couple of passes to realize they were talking to the city’s mayor and his young family, who were most likely campaigning.

A niggling thought started to churn in her mind. Something Connie had said about a little more press coverage and they’d have a sold-out venue. With all of those reporters, it surely wouldn’t be that hard to get coverage, but it would have to be something really good.

When she got off the ride, Lucas was waiting for her with a bouquet of balloons fastened to his hand. One of the reporters sent an inquisitive look in Lucas’s direction. So his Bachelor of the Year status was still giving him quite a bit of notoriety, or was Lucas Carrington normally that notable of a figure in the Big Apple? Which left her wondering if she should play upon his fame—after all, it was for a good cause.

He smiled, looking proud of himself. “Admit it. You had fun.”

“Yes, I did. You’ve made this an amazing day. Thank you.”

He handed over the bouquet of rainbow-colored balloons. “Does this mean I’m forgiven for being a jerk the other day?”

He had really hurt her, but the more she got to know him, the more she realized he truly was a good guy.

“It depends...” When his gaze dipped to her lips, her thoughts scattered.

“Maybe this will help convince you.”

Lucas’s hands wrapped around her waist, pulling her closer. She willingly obliged. Her breath locked in her chest as she waited. Hoping. Longing.

It that moment, the world slipped away. It was just the two of them on this enchanted day. His head lowered. Her chin tilted upward.

Конец ознакомительного фрагмента.

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