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The Jarrods: Inheritance
Taming Her Billionaire Boss
Maxine Sullivan
Wedding His Takeover Target
Emilie Rose
Inheriting His Secret Christmas Baby
Heidi Betts
www.millsandboon.co.uk
Table of Contents
Cover
Title Page
Taming Her Billionaire Boss
About the Author
Dedication
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine
Ten
Eleven
Twelve
Wedding His Takeover Target
About the Author
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine
Ten
Eleven
Twelve
Inheriting His Secret Christmas Baby
About the Author
One
Two
Three
Four
Five
Six
Seven
Eight
Nine
Ten
Eleven
Twelve
Thirteen
Fourteen
Epilogue
Copyright
Taming Her Billionaire Boss
Maxine Sullivan
MAXINE SULLIVAN credits her mother for her lifelong love of romance novels, so it was a natural extension for Maxine to want to write her own romances. She thinks there’s nothing better than being a writer and is thrilled to be one of the few Australians to write for the Desire™ line.
Maxine lives in Melbourne, Australia, but over the years has travelled to New Zealand, the UK and the USA. In her own backyard, her husband’s job ensured they saw the diversity of the countryside, from the tropics to the Outback, country towns to the cities. She is married to Geoff, who has proven his hero status many times over the years. They have two handsome sons and an assortment of much-loved, previously abandoned animals.
Maxine would love to hear from you. She can be contacted through her website at www.maxinesullivan.com.
With thanks to the fabulous Desire™ editors, Krista Stroever and Charles Griemsman, who worked so hard to make this series special.
And to friend and Harlequin American author C.C. Coburn, for her helpful advice on everything Aspen
From the Last Will and Testament of Don Jarrod
…and to my beloved son Blake I leave the grand piano that was your mother’s pride and joy. Some of my fondest memories are of you, lying beneath that piano, listening to your mother play. I hope you will find room in your home for this beautiful piece and enjoy not just the beautiful music it puts forth, but the true love it represents.
One
“What are you doing in here?”
Samantha Thompson almost dropped her pen as her head snapped up, the desk lamp shedding enough light for her to see the handsome man standing in the doorway. “Blake, you scared me!”
Her heart didn’t settle down once she knew who it was, it only increased pace as she looked at him in a dinner suit that fitted his well-toned body flawlessly. His commanding presence was of a man born to lead. This was Blake Jarrod, owner of Blake Jarrod Enterprises’ Las Vegas hotels, and now the new CEO of Jarrod Ridge, his family’s renowned resort in Aspen, Colorado.
And as his assistant of two years there was nothing unusual about her being in his office at ten at night. Just because they were now in Aspen at the Jarrod Manor and she was using the desk in his late father’s office didn’t change a thing. She had her reasons for being here.
And they concerned her boss.
Or soon-to-be-ex boss.
“It’s late,” he said, cutting across her thoughts in the way he usually did.
She took a steadying breath and looked down at the letter in front of her, giving herself one last chance to change her mind. Then she remembered this evening. The final straw had been watching a famous blonde actress flirt outrageously with Blake, and him sitting there enjoying it, taking it as his due.
Samantha couldn’t blame him for wanting to sample what was on offer if he so chose. It was just that she wanted a little taste of him herself. She usually dressed sedately in finely tailored clothes whether she was in Vegas with Blake or here in Aspen, but tonight she’d outdone herself. She’d worn this slinky cream evening dress designed to grab his attention, putting her long, brunette hair up in a chignon when she usually wore it pulled back at the nape with a barrette, but it was clear now that nothing was going to happen between her and Blake.
It was never going to happen.
She’d realized that when he’d caught her eye and she’d smiled for all she was worth, looked the best she could be, and he’d turned back to the actress without a second glance, rejecting her just like Carl had rejected her. Her moment of epiphany had been that simple. She’d come to a decision then. The right decision for her. The only one for her.
She lifted her gaze. “Yes, it’s late, Blake.”
Too late.
He walked toward the desk, almost as if he sensed something wasn’t quite right. “I thought you said you were going back to Pine Lodge.”
That had been her intention. She’d even stood in the lobby of the manor, her coat resting on her shoulders, waiting beside the doorman for the valet to bring the SUV around. She’d been determined to go back to their private lodge at the resort—she in her own room and Blake in the master suite.
Then someone had entered the hotel and the doors had slid open, and the cold night breeze from a midfall wind had slapped her in the face and chilled her to the bone, reminding her that it didn’t matter what she wore or what she did, her boss would never take any notice of her except as his assistant. She’d spun around and headed for the private elevator, coming up here to the office in the family section of the manor.
“I needed to do something first,” she said now.
There was an alert look to his eyes. “It’s Friday night. Work can wait until tomorrow.”
They’d been working every Saturday, trying to keep on top of things until they moved here permanently. And now that wasn’t going to happen. Not for her anyway. “This can’t wait.”
He paused, those blue eyes narrowing in on her. “What can’t?”
She swallowed hard. “My resignation.”
Shock flashed in his eyes then went out like it had never been. “What are you talking about?” he said, his voice quiet. In control. He was always in control, especially where she was concerned.
“It’s time for me to move on, Blake. That’s all.”
“Why?”
The question shot at her like a pellet but she managed to shrug. “It just is.”
He put his hands on the desk and leaned toward her. “What’s this about, Samantha? What’s the real reason you want to leave?”
She’d faced him down over business issues occasionally but this … this was personal. Cautiously, she pushed the leather chair back and rose on her stilettos, then went to look out the large arched window behind her.
The scene below at the luxurious resort was surprisingly charming in October. Tonight, pocketed in amongst the tall peaks, the sleepy hamlet twinkled like fairy lights in the alpine breeze, a tapestry of winding streets, lodges, and village square. To a southern California girl who now lived in Vegas, this place had something nowhere else seemed to have.
It had heart.
“It’s time for me to go,” she said, keeping her back to him.
“You’re unhappy here?”
“No!” she blurted out, swinging around, then winced inwardly, knowing she sounded contradictory and that he’d have to wonder why.
To be truthful, she’d been feeling slightly down ever since Blake’s sister Melissa had announced her pregnancy a few weeks ago. She’d been happy for Melissa, so why it had bothered her she didn’t know. Yet since then she hadn’t been able to shake a feeling of being slightly depressed.
He’d straightened away from the desk. “So what’s the problem?”
You are.
I want you to notice me.
Dammit, I just want you.
But how did you say that to a man who didn’t even notice you as a woman? She was his trusted assistant and that was about it. She’d never acted overtly female around him. She kept everything businesslike between them. Looking back, perhaps occasionally she should have let her feminine side show. If she had, then perhaps now she might not be in this predicament.
Yet it wasn’t that she was in love with him either. She was intensely attracted to him. He was an exciting, charismatic man who effortlessly charmed women like they were going out of fashion, but he was still discerning in whom he took to his bed.
She wanted to be charmed by him.
She wanted to be in his bed and in his arms.
Oh, God, it truly was hitting home that she’d never be in his spotlight. Until now a glimmer of hope had kept her going, but after his subconscious rejection of her tonight, she’d realized that if he knew her feelings about wanting him, then everything would change. She’d be totally embarrassed and so would he. She couldn’t work like that. She’d be humiliated just like she’d been with Carl. It was better to leave with some dignity.
“Samantha?”
Hearing her name on his lips struck her like never before. She tilted her head at him. “Do you know something, Blake? You’ve never called me Sam. Not once. It’s always Samantha.”
His brows drew together. “What’s that got to do with it?”
Everything.
She wanted to be Sam once in a while. Sam the woman who’d left her ordinary upbringing in Pasadena to embrace the excitement of Vegas after a one-sided love affair gone wrong. The woman who wanted to have a purely physical affair with a man she admired, without ever risking her heart again. Not Samantha the personal assistant who helped run his office and his life and who kept the whole lot in check for him, all nice and neat and tidy, just the way he liked it. She couldn’t believe she’d actually thought she’d had a chance with him.
And he was waiting for an answer.
“I have my reasons for resigning and I think that’s all you need to know.”
“Is someone giving you a hard time?” he asked sharply. “Someone from my family? I’ll talk to them if they are. Tell me.”
She shook her head. “Your family’s great. It’s …” She hesitated, wishing she’d given herself time to come up with a suitable explanation. Needless to say, she hadn’t expected to be here tonight writing out her resignation, or that he’d even come upon her. She’d assumed he’d probably go off nightclubbing with Miss Hollywood. “I simply want something more, okay? It’s nothing against you or your family. This is about me.”
One eyebrow rose. “You want something more than first-class travel and a world-class place to live?”
“Yes.” She had to tread carefully. “Actually I’m thinking of going home to Pasadena for a little while,” she fibbed, then realized that wasn’t such a bad idea after all. “Just until I decide what I want to do next.”
“And that will give you more of what you want? I seem to remember you saying you’d left Pasadena because you’d been looking for more excitement.”
She’d definitely said that—and she had been looking for more than weekly piano lessons and weekend shopping with her girlfriends—but it had been so much more four years ago. Having fallen in love with a young architect who’d gone off to travel the world after she’d told him she loved him, she’d decided to find her own excitement. Her job with Blake had provided that excitement without any emotional involvement. Until now. And even now it was about lust, not love.
His eyes pierced the distance between them. “You seemed happy enough before to move to Aspen.”
“I was … I am … I mean …” Oh, heck. She was getting herself tied up in knots. When Blake said he was moving back home and she should come with him, she’d been delighted. His estranged father’s will had stated all the Jarrod offspring had to return to Jarrod Ridge for a year or lose their inheritance. Blake, being the eldest—only by a few minutes ahead of his fraternal and more laidback twin, Guy—had taken up the challenge of running the resort.
She’d looked forward to it, too, and they’d been traveling back and forth between Aspen and Vegas a couple of times these past four months, getting everything sorted. Blake would keep his hotels but would spend most of his time in Aspen. She’d been very happy with that. Until tonight.
She cleared her throat. “All my family and friends are back in Pasadena. I miss them.”
“I didn’t know you had any friends.”
She pulled a face. “Thanks very much.”
There was a flicker of impatience. “You know what I mean. You’re always working or traveling with me and rarely go home except for the holidays. Your friends have never been a priority before.”
“I guess that’s changed.” Thankfully Carl had never returned and she’d heard he’d married an English girl. Of course, time and distance had only shown her that she hadn’t really been in love with him at all. She’d been in love with the idea of being in love with a man who’d talked of adventure in far-off places. She’d thought they’d do that together. God, what was wrong with her that she kept wanting men who didn’t want her?
He held her gaze. “What are you going to do after Pasadena, then?”
“I’m not sure. I’ll find something. Perhaps even one of those rare friends of mine might help me get a job,” she mocked. All she knew was that she wouldn’t continue working for Blake, not in Aspen nor in Vegas. A clean break was needed.
He eyed her. “You have plenty of connections. You could use them.”
All at once she had an ache in her throat. It sounded like he was beginning to accept her decision. And that more than anything showed he really didn’t care about her. She was just another employee to him. Nothing more.
“I’m thinking I might get right away from this type of work.”
“And do what?”
“I don’t know.” She took a breath. “In any case, I’d really like to leave Aspen as soon as possible, so that I can wrap up things in Vegas before going home. It shouldn’t take more than a couple of days.” She’d make sure it didn’t.
He scanned her face. “You’re not telling me everything,” he said, sending her heart bumping against her ribs.
“There’s nothing else to tell. I do have a life and a family away from you, Blake, as hard as that may be for you to believe.” She couldn’t take much more of this. Going over to the desk, she picked up the letter. “So I’d appreciate it if you would accept my resignation.” She walked toward him. “Ideally I’d like to leave here as soon as possible. Tomorrow even.” Reaching him, she held out the letter.
He didn’t take it.
There was a measured silence, then, “No.”
The breath stalled in her throat. “Wh-what?”
“No, I won’t accept your letter of resignation and certainly not on such short notice. I need you here with me.”
His words sent a jet of warmth through her until she remembered this evening. It had been torturous watching him and that actress flirt with each other. How could she stay and keep up the pretence that she didn’t want Blake for herself?
She continued to hold the letter out to him. “I can’t stay, Blake. I really need to leave.”
Now.
Tomorrow.
Certainly no later than that.
He ignored the sheet of paper until she lowered her hand. “I’m the new CEO here, Samantha. It wouldn’t be professional of you to leave me in the lurch like this.”
She felt bad but it came down to emotional survival. “I know, but there are others quite capable of replacing me. Just contact a high-end employment agency. I’ll even do it for you before I go. Someone else would love to work here in Jarrod Ridge. They could be here by Monday.”
His mouth tightened. “No.”
She lifted her chin. “I’m afraid you have no choice.”
“I don’t?” he said silkily, inching closer. “You can’t quit without a month’s notice. It’s in your contract.”
She sucked in a sharp breath. “Surely you could waive that for me? I’ve given you two years of my life, Blake, and I’ve done the job exceptionally well. I’ve been at your beck and call 24/7. I think you owe me this.”
“If you insist on leaving before your contract is up then I’ll see you in court.” He gave a significant pause. “I don’t think that would look good on your résumé, do you?”
“You wouldn’t!”
“Wouldn’t I?
“This is business,” he continued. “Don’t take it personally.”
She almost choked then. That was the problem. Everything was business between them. Nothing was personal.
Her hands shook with anger as she began folding the letter in four. Then she leaned forward and tucked it into his jacket pocket. “Fine. You’ve got your month. Two weeks here and then two weeks back in Vegas to finish up. After that I’m leaving for Pasadena.” She went to step past him.
In a flash he grabbed her arm and stopped her, looking down into her eyes. It was the first time he’d ever touched her with meaning and something passed between them. She saw his spark of surprise before he dropped her arm. It surprised her, too.
“I never take no for an answer, Samantha. Remember that.”
“There’s always the exception to every rule. And I’m it, Mr. Jarrod.”
* * *
She was still shaking when she got out of the SUV and back to her room at Pine Lodge. She was angry at Blake’s refusal to let her go without giving a month’s notice, and excited by the awareness in his eyes when he’d touched her. Was she crazy to look more into this than she should?
Her heartbeat stretched into a gallop at the thought that he was attracted to her. A split second was all it had taken and she’d known what it was like to have this man want her. Would he let himself take it further? Remembering the way he’d immediately dropped his hand and withdrawn, she knew he wouldn’t.
Yet he’d wanted to, and that was the difference between him and Carl. Oh, she’d had a physical relationship many years ago as a teenager, but looking back, that had been so adolescent. Since then it had only been Carl, and he hadn’t wanted her beyond a kiss or two.
But with Blake tonight, she’d known for a moment what it was like for a man to really desire her. And that gave her hope that with a bit of encouragement he might make her his. What did she have to lose now? If she went home without taking this opportunity to become Blake’s lover she’d always wonder what it would have been like to be kissed by him, to be held by him, to have their bodies joined. And she’d always ache inside for what might have been.
She frowned. How could she capture his attention again and keep it? So far she’d tried everything and nothing had worked. She’d made herself as attractive as possible for him, to no avail. She’d even tried flirting over dinner earlier, but it had fallen faster than a lead balloon. Instead she’d ended up jealous of that actress’s ability to flirt so naturally. If only she could act like …
Just then a thought clicked in her mind. She couldn’t believe she hadn’t thought of this before now, but if flirting with Blake hadn’t made him sit up and take notice of her, maybe he needed to be stirred up. Maybe he needed an award-winning performance. And a little taste of jealousy.
Yet Blake wasn’t the type of man who wanted things made easy for him. Making it appear at least a little difficult to catch her had to be the way to go. He wouldn’t be interested otherwise.
And what better way to get his attention than letting him see that other men wanted her? Blake wouldn’t be able to resist the challenge. This past week at least two good-looking men had asked her out to dinner but she’d turned them down. She hadn’t wanted to be with any man but Blake. She still didn’t, but he didn’t need to know that.
Starting tomorrow, she’d let herself be wined and dined by men who desired her. She wasn’t about to take it any further than that, but she wasn’t going to sit around any longer and be uptight Samantha for the rest of her time here either. Sam Thompson was about to break out of her shell.
After Samantha left his office, Blake stood there for a minute, stunned by his encounter with his assistant, and not only because she’d wanted to resign. When he’d touched her he’d had the strongest urge to pull her into his arms and make love to her. She’d felt it, too. He’d seen an acknowledgement in her blue eyes she hadn’t been able to hide. Strangely, it excited him. He wasn’t used to beautiful women holding themselves back. Women usually gave themselves to him.
Clearly it had taken Samantha by surprise as much as it had him. Equally as clearly, she wasn’t about to act on it. She probably didn’t know how to act on it. Over the two years that she’d worked for him he’d rarely seen her date. She was a beautiful woman who socialized with grace and class at functions they both attended, but there had never seemed to be a permanent man in her life. Admittedly he kept her busy, but he’d often wondered if she’d had a bad relationship somewhere along the way.
None of that mattered right now, he told himself as he strode over to the window, catching sight of the SUV taking Samantha back the short distance to their private lodge. He waited until the car drove past the cabins and lodges then weaved around a corner and out of sight before letting his thoughts break free.
Damn her.
He didn’t often feel thunderstruck, but she’d dropped a bombshell on him tonight. How could she think of leaving him at a time like this? She was his right-hand man. His assistant who made sure everything ran like clockwork. He couldn’t do without her and certainly not after coming home to run the resort. He and his younger brother Gavin had already talked about building a new high-security bungalow for their most elite guests in a separate area of the resort.
So why, right when he needed her the most, did Samantha want to bail out on him? He’d expected better of her than desertion. Her excuse that she wanted to go home for a while hadn’t made sense. She wasn’t one to let her emotions get the best of her anyway and neither was he. That was what he’d liked about her from the start. Now his instincts told him she wasn’t telling him the full truth.
Yet if she couldn’t be truthful after working closely together, then something was definitely wrong. It just went to remind him to never trust anyone. A person thought they had everything, and in an instant it was gone. Hadn’t that been the way since his mother had died from cancer when he was six and his father had withdrawn and blocked everyone out emotionally? It was like both his parents had died at the same time. He’d grown up determined to be totally independent from any emotional entanglements.
Okay, so Donald Jarrod had enough of himself left over to push his five children to be achievers, but at what cost? Four of Donald’s offspring had departed years ago to make their mark in other parts of the country. Guy owned a famous French restaurant in Manhattan and ran another business venture. Gavin was a construction engineer. And Melissa was a licensed masseuse who had run a spa and massage-therapy retreat in L.A. Trevor was the only one who’d stayed in Aspen, but had chosen to have nothing to do with the resort, and instead built up his own successful marketing business.
Hell, Blake hadn’t seen much of his four younger brothers and sister these past ten years. As his fraternal twin, he was closest to Guy, but he’d still kept a close eye on all his siblings. If they’d needed him, he would have been there. Of course his mind was still out on his half sister, Erica, who’d only recently shown up to become part of the family.
Unfortunately now he needed to rely on all of them to make sure the place continued to be a success. It wasn’t a feeling he enjoyed. He didn’t like relying on anyone, but he’d thought he could count on Samantha.
Obviously he couldn’t.
Feeling restless, he looked out over the renowned ski resort that had always been the one place he called home. No matter how much he’d tried to forget it, Jarrod Ridge was in his blood.
He was now the CEO of Jarrod Ridge, for God’s sake. His ancestor, Eli Jarrod, had started up the silver mine during the mining boom of 1879, and built himself one of the biggest houses in Colorado. Then “The Panic” of 1893 had closed many of Aspen’s mines, and Eli had added to his house and made it bigger, turning it into a grand hotel that was now Jarrod Manor. This place had been through a lot, surviving right through to 1946 when the ski resort idea was born. Jarrod Ridge hadn’t looked back since. It was a powerful feeling being in charge of all he surveyed.
And a big responsibility.
And dammit, he wasn’t about to let Samantha walk out on him when he needed her most. Even in a month’s time he would still need her by his side. It was important to the resort to make sure the changeover went as smoothly as possible, and only Samantha could help him do that. She was the best assistant he’d ever had and he wasn’t about to lose her. He would find a way to make her stay, at least until the new bungalow was up and running.
He expelled a breath as he went over to his desk, where he sat down on the leather chair and took the resignation letter out from his jacket pocket. Under the lamplight, he read it, hoping to glean some hint on what was going on inside his assistant’s mind. The letter was as professional as expected. No surprises there.
Frowning, he dropped the letter and picked up the pen, rolling it between his fingers as he tried to think. He didn’t understand. Surprise appeared to be the name of the game with Samantha right now.
Why?
All at once the metal in his hand went from cool to warm in a matter of seconds, reminding him of his cool and remote assistant who’d soon warmed up at his touch. His heart took a sudden and extra beat. Would Samantha warm up for him if he touched her again? Remembering the electricity between them when he’d grabbed her arm, a surge of need raced through him. Samantha didn’t seem to know what she wanted, but he did know women. She had wanted him. She had reacted to his touch.
And if that were the case, then perhaps he’d touch her some more and keep her around as long as necessary. He was sure he could persuade her to stay at least another six months. By then they’d both be ready to end the relationship. Sometime in the new year he’d more than likely be over needing her help anyway, and by then he would have someone to replace her, both in the office and the bedroom. No other woman had lasted longer than that. He wouldn’t let them. Having affairs was the best he could offer.
As for Samantha, she was independent. She’d have no difficulty moving on when the time came. Hell, she’d probably even instigate it.
For now, it would be his pleasure to awaken the woman in her. Seducing Samantha was definitely going to be a priority task.
Two
Samantha felt more than a few moments of trepidation when she woke to the early morning light and remembered what she’d done. She’d actually handed Blake her resignation. She would be out of his life in a month’s time. She tried to picture being apart from him for the rest of her life, but the thought brought silly tears to her eyes that she quickly blinked back.
Taking a shuddering breath, she tried to put all this in perspective. She’d moved on before, hadn’t she? It wasn’t so hard. Of course leaving Pasadena had been an adventure as much as an escape. It would be a long time before she escaped wanting Blake Jarrod.
Oh, God.
Then she remembered the plan she’d come up with last night. At the time she’d thought it was brilliant, but now she wasn’t so sure she should go out with other men to try and make Blake jealous. It didn’t seem right to manipulate the situation like that.
And that left her exactly … nowhere.
Remembering the sizzle of Blake’s touch, she wondered if she really wanted to leave without giving them a chance. It was comforting to know that he would not want to get emotionally involved, but to become his lover, to be forever warmed by the memory of being in his arms, didn’t she have to do this for herself?
She could do it. This was a goal that was achievable. She may not be a femme fatale but she was considered attractive and she knew how to flirt. And while it may not have worked with Blake at the dinner last night, she knew she could interest other men here in Aspen. Hopefully she’d grab his attention that way.
Tossing back the covers like she was tossing away her shackles, she jumped out of bed. She felt more lighthearted by the minute.
After her shower, Samantha figured it would be prudent to distance herself from Blake as much as possible from now on. She wouldn’t capture any man’s attention if she was with him all the time.
First things first.
Apart from the maids from the hotel who tidied up Pine Lodge each day, she and Blake had decided to be mostly self-sufficient. The refrigerator was usually stocked with food or they could eat at Jarrod Manor, the main lodge on the resort where some of the family chose to live.
Usually they ate a light breakfast together—surprisingly Blake hadn’t brought any women back to the lodge while she’d been here—before they walked the short distance to his father’s old office at the Manor. Anything to do with his hotels in Vegas was kept separate and done here in the office they’d set up in a corner of the large living room. That work was mostly done after dinner each evening. There was a lot to do with running both businesses, especially now that it was pre-ski season here. Samantha didn’t mind keeping so busy. Besides, it kept Blake close.
But today was different. Fifteen minutes later, she quietly closed the lodge door behind her and left without waiting for him. The Colorado sun was making a shy return as she breathed in crystal air and walked the winding streets in picture-perfect surroundings. As she approached this grandest of hotels, a thrill went through her. With its main stone building complemented by guest wings on both sides, its peaked roofs and balconies with iron railings and its frosted windowpanes, it looked like an enchanted castle.
The doorman greeted her as she entered the hotel from under the stone arch leading off the driveway. She smiled and walked through the wide lobby dotted with tables and chairs. Being the off-season, it was quiet at this time of the morning with only a few guests up and about. A young couple stood viewing photographs of the mountains displayed along the wood walls. Older couples looked ready to go sightseeing the many popular tourist attractions, than pamper themselves in the spa.
It was no better in the casual eatery off the lobby, and Samantha sighed as she scooped scrambled eggs onto a plate from the buffet. Couldn’t there have been one measly attractive man in sight this morning? So much for her plans to make Blake jealous. It wouldn’t happen if she couldn’t even find a man to flirt with.
She lifted her head and saw Blake’s half sister, Erica Prentice, come out of the kitchen area and walk through the room with Joel Remy, the resort doctor. Joel was tall, blond and good-looking and he’d asked her out only last week and she’d refused, not giving it any consideration. Things had changed.
Erica saw her and blinked in surprise as she came over to her table. “Samantha, what are you doing here eating breakfast by yourself?”
Samantha liked Erica, who hadn’t known she was a member of the Jarrod family until a few months ago. Since then, Erica had become engaged to the Jarrod family attorney, Christian Hanford, and everyone was happy about it. Everyone except Blake, that is, though Guy had taken a while to come round. Erica was a PR specialist who had thrown herself into the running of the resort, willingly giving a hand wherever it was needed, just like the other family members. Samantha didn’t understand Blake’s attitude toward her.
She smiled at the other woman. “I was up early so I thought I’d get a head start on the boss.”
Erica laughed. “Yes, I think as Blake’s assistant you’d need to do that occasionally.”
Samantha let her eyes slide to the man beside Erica. “Good morning, Joel. You’re here early, as well.”
The doctor smiled. “One of the kitchen staff burned her hand, but thankfully it was only minor.”
Samantha nodded, then, “Where are my manners? Would you like to join me for breakfast? Erica, you, too, of course.”
As if she was getting a vibe, Erica glanced from one to the other and went to speak, but Joel got in before her. “I can’t, I’m afraid, Sam,” the doctor said. “I have to go out on another call. But how about I make it up to you? It’s Saturday and my night off. If you’re free I’d love to take you to dinner.”
Samantha could have kissed him, but she managed to restrain herself. If Blake didn’t get jealous over this, then at least she’d have some fun, right?
Thinking of Blake must have made him appear. He was at this moment striding through the lobby with a scowl on his face, heading for the private elevator. Her heart jumped in her throat when he glanced over toward them and saw her in the eatery. He changed direction and advanced toward her.
She turned back to Joel, waiting a few moments more for Blake to get closer. “Dinner tonight?” she said, raising her voice just a little. “Yes, I’d like that very much, Joel.”
He grinned at her. “Great. How about I pick you up at seven-thirty?”
“Perfect.”
Blake was almost at the table.
“I’d better go see my next patient,” Joel said, then inclined his head as he passed by. “Good morning, Blake.”
Blake nodded, then stopped at the table and practically glared down at Samantha. “You didn’t wait for me.”
She reminded herself how this man didn’t like things made easy for him. “I slipped a note under your door. Besides, I do believe I start work at nine and until then my time is my own,” she said, aware of Erica’s speculative gaze.
Blake must have been, too. He darted an irritated look at his half sister, then away, jerking his head at Joel’s retreating back. “What did the doctor want?”
Was he jealous already? She felt a thrill of excitement but before she could answer, Erica said, “Joel’s taking Samantha out to dinner tonight.”
Blake blinked in shock, but he recovered quickly, his blue eyes narrowing in on Samantha. “You can’t go. I need you to work for a couple of hours tonight. I’m expecting an important call.”
“I’m sorry, Blake, but I’m entitled to some time off.”
He shook his head. “Not tonight, I’m afraid. I’d do it myself but as you know, I have a function to attend in town.” He regarded her with a hint of smugness in his eyes. “That’s why I pay you the big bucks.”
Samantha’s stomach started to churn. For all that she had wanted him jealous … for all that she anticipated him being difficult with the job … she still hadn’t expected he would be quite so obstructive. It was obvious he was going to be exactly that from now on.
Well, she didn’t like being told what to do, especially when it was out of spite. Oh, boy, she was going to really enjoy not making this easy for him now.
Her chin angled up at him. “Only for the next month,” she pointed out smoothly, suddenly wanting to throttle him.
His mouth tightened. “Listen—”
“Blake,” Erica’s voice cut across him soothingly. “I really think you’re being unfair here. If necessary, one of the staff can—”
“Mind your own business, Erica,” he snapped, making both Samantha and Erica gasp. He grimaced, a pulse beating in his cheekbone. “Sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.” Then he looked at Samantha. “Go if you must,” he said, then twisted on his heels and stormed off.
“Oh, my God, that was terrible, Erica,” Samantha muttered. “I don’t know what came over him.”
Erica stood watching her half brother storm into the elevator. “I do.”
Samantha sighed. “Yes, he seems to have a problem with you, doesn’t he? I’m sure he’ll be fine once he gets used to having a new sister.”
“Half sister,” Erica corrected with a wry smile, then sat down on the chair opposite. “Samantha, I don’t think it’s me who’s upset him. What’s going on between you two?”
Samantha was unsure how much she should confide in the other woman. When it came down to it, Erica was a Jarrod. Still, the others would have to know sometime. “I’ve given him my resignation. I finish up in a month’s time.”
“What! But why?” Erica cried. “I thought you loved your job.” She reached across the table and squeezed Samantha’s hand. “Please don’t leave. I love you being here. You’re part of the family.”
Samantha felt her heart lift, then take a dive as fast. She’d only just begun to know Blake’s family and now she had to leave. “It’s time for me to make a change.”
Erica gave her a penetrating look. “There’s been something bothering you lately.” She paused. “Blake needs you, Samantha.”
For the job, that was all.
“Yes, he’s made it quite clear that’s why he’s making me work out my contract for the next month.” She couldn’t stop her lips from twisting. “He told me it’s nothing personal.”
There was another pause, then, “I see.”
Samantha realized she may have said too much. The other woman probably saw more than she should.
All at once Erica gave a disarming smile. “You know what I do when I’m feeling down? I go shopping. How about I take you into town after lunch and we buy you a new dress for tonight?”
Samantha knew Erica was trying to make her feel better. “It’s a lovely thought, but I’ve already got enough dresses. And anyway, I have to work. Blake’s going to make sure he gets his money’s worth from me from now on.”
Erica waved that aside. “I bet most of your clothes are suitable for Vegas, not here. And please … no woman ever has enough dresses,” she teased, looking beautiful and happy but still slightly concerned. “Besides, I think it will do Blake good to do without you for a couple of hours.” She winked. “He owes me now for being such a jerk.”
Samantha appreciated it and she tried to smile but couldn’t. “Erica, it’s not a good idea.” Despite being angry with Blake, she realized she’d probably pushed him a bit too much already today. She’d wanted to shock him into being jealous. Not give him a heart attack!
“Phooey! You want to look good for Joel tonight, don’t you?”
Samantha thought about why she’d accepted the invitation to dinner with Joel in the first place. This was about making Blake jealous, she reminded herself, so she still had to keep trying. She couldn’t give up after the first try.
She nodded. “Yes, I do.”
“Then let’s light a fire under him, honey, if that’s what he needs.”
Samantha did her best not to give anything away, but they both knew Erica was talking about Blake, not Joel. And seeing that this might be her one and only chance …
“Okay then, Erica. I’m in your hands. I have nothing to lose.”
“Good girl! I’ll come by the office after lunch.” Erica got to her feet. “I’d better go and check on the staff member who burned her hand.” She smiled and headed back the way she’d come.
As Erica left, Samantha sat for a few moments then looked down at the remains of her scrambled eggs. She just hoped she didn’t end up like her breakfast—out in the cold and barely touched.
After lunch Blake’s bad mood increased as he watched Erica leave his office, taking his assistant with her for the afternoon. They were going shopping, for Christ’s sake! For a dress for Samantha’s date tonight!
Damn Erica. His half sister was beautiful and smart, but, unlike his brothers and Melissa, he didn’t totally trust her. After listening to her for the last five minutes, he hadn’t changed his mind. She was unmistakably adroit at getting her own way, using his outburst this morning against him to make him feel guilty. It had worked like a charm, as she’d known it would.
But it was Samantha he really needed to fathom, he decided, leaning back in the leather chair. He’d woken up thinking he’d go after her with an enthusiasm he rarely felt for a woman these days.
And then it had all gone wrong. First, there had been the note slipped under his door that she’d already gone to breakfast and hadn’t waited for him. She’d never done that before, not here in Aspen or anywhere else they’d stayed throughout the world.
Then he’d found her accepting a date with that gigolo doctor, Joel Remy. That was like going out with one of the ski instructors. Didn’t Samantha know women were lined up to sleep with these guys? He’d seen it all his life.
Take a number, Samantha.
What the hell was going on here? She suddenly seemed a different person. It was like she’d decided to place being a woman first, his assistant second.
What had got into her? Was she trying to pay him back for not letting her walk out on the job early? Would she really do that? He grimaced. She was a woman, wasn’t she? She’d probably decided to have a farewell fling just to rub his nose in it.
Thoughts of Samantha in bed with another man were suddenly anathema to him. He couldn’t let her do it. He knew her and he knew she’d regret it.
And surely if she was going to make love to anyone, then she could damn well choose him. He was the one who’d worked closely with her for two years. He was the one who would appreciate her in bed. He was the one who had to save her from herself.
Three
As she descended the stairs that evening, carrying her clutch bag in one hand and her cashmere evening coat over her arm, Samantha’s foot faltered on the next step. She’d been hoping to show herself off to Blake before he left for his business dinner, and now her heart began knocking against her ribs when she saw the man in question look up from the corner bar in their lodge and catch sight of her. His glass stopped halfway to his mouth and he stared … just stared … as she slowly came the rest of the way down.
Thanks to Erica, she knew she looked fantastic. She’d always taken pride in her appearance and in making sure she looked right for her position, but this long-sleeved dress—this piece of hot-pink knit material that stretched over her body like it had been lovingly cling-wrapped to every curve—made her feel a little naughty.
Without taking his eyes off her, Blake put his drink on the bar and watched her walk toward him. “I’m stunned,” he said in a deep, husky voice that held true admiration and sent her pulse skipping with delight. “I’ve never seen you look so …”
“Nice?” she gently teased as her confidence soared. She would forgive him anything right at this moment.
“Sexy.”
The word took her breath away. She moistened her lips and saw his blue eyes dart to her mouth. “Thank you, Blake.”
Then his gaze rolled down her, before slowly coming up again, his eyelids flicking briefly when he passed over her breasts both times. She had the feeling her nipples may have beaded with sexual excitement and one part of her wanted to hunch over and say “don’t look,” while another forced her to hold her shoulders back proudly.
His eyes—dark with a desire she’d never seen before—finally stopped at her head. “What have you done to your hair?”
She swallowed. It hadn’t taken much to style the silky brown strands into bouncing curls around her shoulders. “I had a couple of inches cut off it.”
“It looks terrific.”
This was the reaction she’d been hoping for from him. “Thank you again.”
He picked up his drink and took a sip. Then, “I have to ask you something.”
Her heart took a leap. “What is it, Blake?”
“Are you sure you want to do this?”
She blinked. “Do what?”
Resign?
“Go out with Joel Remy.”
His voice gave nothing away but her pulse started to race even more. Dear God, could Blake be a little jealous? Had she actually managed to get through to him so quickly that she was a woman? A woman who needed him like she’d never needed any man before?
His eyes slammed into her. “He’s not your style, Samantha.”
Her heart almost burst through her chest. Blake was jealous. She tried to act nonchalant. She couldn’t succumb and throw herself at him the minute he decided he wanted her for five minutes.
“How do you know what my style is, Blake?” she said, fluttering her eyelashes at him.
“I know what suits you and what doesn’t and I know he’s not the man for you.”
No, this man in front of her was the man for her.
“Oh, so you’re an expert on me now, are you?” she flirted, thrilled beyond her wildest dreams that he was finally noticing her. It was this dress. She had so much to thank Erica for. The other woman had …
“I’d like to think I know you very well, Samantha,” he said, suddenly looking very superior, very arrogant. “You wouldn’t be happy with Remy. Trust me.”
Thud.
Clarity hit her like a bolt of lightning. What a fool she was in thinking anything had changed. This wasn’t about Blake wanting her. This was about him being his usual conceited self. The man wasn’t jealous. He was merely trying to stop her having a relationship with another man over the next two weeks so that she wouldn’t inconvenience him. Frankly, she deserved better than this.
“That’s your considered opinion, is it?” she said coolly now.
“Yes, it is.” His eyes told her he’d noticed her change in tone. “Are you going to tell him you’re leaving soon?”
She tried to think. She was so disappointed. “I’d prefer to keep that to myself for the time being. It’s no one’s business but my own.”
“And mine, of course,” he pointed out dryly. Then, “But you’re probably right in not telling him. I doubt he’s after a long-term relationship anyway.”
“Neither am I,” she said, taking pleasure in the way his face hardened. “In the meantime, I’m sure Joel and I will both manage to enjoy ourselves.”
He looked all-knowing. “I doubt you’ll have anything in common.”
She raised one eyebrow. “Really? Don’t forget I worked in a doctor’s office before coming to work for you. And my family runs a medical transcription business, so I used to have quite a bit to do with doctors.”
Blake’s lips twisted. “So you’ll talk about deciphering his handwriting? That’ll be a laugh a minute.”
Her fingers tightened on her clutch purse. He thought he was being clever, did he? She needed to wipe away that smirk. She gave him a sultry look. “Oh, I’m sure we’ll have plenty of … other things in common.”
The smirk fell off his face. “Dammit, Samantha, you shouldn’t—”
The doorbell buzzed.
Samantha glanced over at the front door a few feet away and saw Joel through the glass panel. She tossed Blake an expressive look before going over to open it.
Joel stepped inside, his eyes sliding down, then up. “Wow! Don’t you look like a million dollars.” He grinned at Blake a few feet away. “I can’t believe this beauty is going out with me.”
“Neither can I,” Blake muttered, then as quickly gave a smooth smile but Samantha heard him. “I mean, she’s usually picky about who she goes out with.”
She blinked. Was that still an insult? Joel had a puzzled look that said he might be thinking the same thing.
She hurriedly forced a smile. “Thanks for the compliment, Joel.” She stood and looked him up and down, too. “For the record, you look like a billion dollars,” she joked, then realized she’d overplayed her hand when Blake sniffed, though she suspected it was more of a snort. She turned her head slightly so Joel couldn’t see her stabbing her boss with her eyes.
Blake ignored her. “So, where are you two dining tonight?”
Samantha was immediately suspicious. “Why do you want to know?”
He smiled. “No reason.”
Joel then mentioned a restaurant in the center of Aspen. “It’s only just opened and I know the owner. It’ll be very hard to get a reservation in another month or so.” He didn’t sound like he was bragging, at least not to Samantha, but she saw a glint in Blake’s eyes that told her he wasn’t in agreement.
She smiled at Joel. “That sounds lovely.”
He looked pleased. “And you, Blake? You’re off to dinner, too, by the look of things.”
Wearing a dark suit, Blake was the one who really did look like a billion dollars, Samantha had to admit, unable to stop herself from wishing she was going out with him instead of Joel, in spite of the fact that Blake was being an overbearing jerk.
“Just a business dinner in town.” Blake looked at his watch. “As a matter of fact, I’d better call a cab. I need to be on my way.”
Joel frowned. “A cab? Don’t you have a car?”
“I noticed it was leaking oil this afternoon so I thought I’d better not use it tonight.”
Samantha sensed Blake was manipulating the situation for his own benefit again. Did he think she was stupid? He was doing this on purpose to try and keep her and Joel apart as much as possible to spoil her night.
She stared at him. “But you only bought the vehicle a few months ago and it’s barely been used. How can a luxury Cadillac SUV have an oil leak already?”
He looked totally guileless. “I agree. It’s the darnedest thing.”
“We could give you a lift, if you like,” Joel said, making Samantha want to rattle him.
“Oh, I’m sure Blake doesn’t want to ride with us.” She was determined not to give her boss any satisfaction. “The resort has a chauffeur service.”
Joel frowned. “No, that’s okay. I don’t mind. We’re going that way anyway.”
She would have sounded mean-spirited to refuse. As Blake well knew, she decided, watching the satisfaction in his eyes. He was Joel’s boss and he knew Joel wouldn’t deny doing a favor for him.
She passed her coat to Joel. “Would you mind helping me on with this, please?”
“Of course.” Joel held it open while she slipped into it, then he helped lift her hair out from under the collar so that it was once again bouncing around her shoulders. It was somewhat intimate and Samantha felt a little awkward at having a man touch her hair, but she soon felt better when she saw the steely look in Blake’s eyes after he noted it, too.
“Thanks,” she said, smiling brightly at her date, then deliberately linked her arm with his. She gave Blake a sweet smile as he put on his black evening coat, letting him know she didn’t care that he wasn’t pleased. Too bad!
“My car’s out front,” Joel said.
They left the lodge, then Samantha slipped onto the front passenger seat before Blake could take it himself. She wouldn’t put it past him to try and make her sit in the back, and she wasn’t about to let him play at being boss while she was on a date. This was her night out. Blake may have been the reason for it, but right now she wasn’t about to give him an inch.
Soon they were driving off into the night.
“This is very good of you, Joel,” Blake said, sounding grateful from the backseat, which didn’t sound right to Samantha’s ears. Blake never sounded grateful like other mere mortals.
“We don’t mind, do we, Sam?” Joel said, shooting her a sideways smile.
“No, of course not. We have to keep the boss happy, don’t we?” She smiled back at Joel, knowing Blake could see her from his diagonal viewpoint behind the driver’s seat.
“By the way, Samantha,” Blake said, placing the slightest emphasis on her name, making her realize that Joel had called her “Sam” again—the name Blake had never called her.
“Yes, Blake?” she said, keeping her tone idle.
There was a tiny pause before he spoke. “Don’t worry about that very important phone call I was waiting for tonight. One of the resort staff will sit in the office and wait for it.”
“Good.” She took her job seriously, but Erica’s suggestion had been a good one, so she wasn’t about to feel guilty about it.
“But I did have to give them your cell phone number, as well. Just in case. I hope you don’t mind. Someone has to take the call if by chance it’s missed at the hotel, and I’ll have to turn my cell phone off so it won’t interrupt the guest speaker tonight.”
She could feel herself stiffen. He was trying to take advantage of her good nature for his own purposes again. This wasn’t about taking the call. He wanted to put a spoke between her and Joel’s budding relationship, freeing up her time for the job.
She turned her head to face him. “Actually I do mind. This is my night off. I don’t want to work tonight.”
He raised an eyebrow, like he was surprised. “I’m sure Joel won’t have a problem with it. He’s a doctor. He’s used to being on call. You understand, don’t you, Joel?”
“Sure I do.” Joel glanced at her and smiled. “Leave your cell phone on, Sam. I don’t mind if you take the call.”
Her mouth tightened but she didn’t reply. Her cell phone was already off and she intended it to stay that way. And Blake knew this had nothing to do with Joel anyway. Blake was just trying to make sure the job was in her face tonight.
Joel must have sensed something amiss because he started talking about general things for the rest of the way. Samantha could feel Blake’s eyes on her from the backseat but she ignored him as she responded to Joel, relieved when the car slid to a halt outside a restaurant.
“Thanks for the ride.” Blake opened the back door then paused briefly. “And don’t worry about how I’ll get home. You two have a good time, okay?”
Samantha bit down on her irritation. His sincerity was so false. He was just trying to get a ride back to the lodge to make sure nothing sexual happened between her and Joel. Ooh, it would do him good to wonder and worry what she and Joel were getting up to later in the evening.
She smiled tightly. “We’ll be very late, so you’d best get the car service. Good night, Blake.”
His lips flattened and he shot her a dark look. “Good night.” He waited a second, but when Joel said good night, he got out of the car and shut the door. The last Samantha saw was him striding into the restaurant.
Then they drove off and she looked ahead, hoping Joel wouldn’t say anything. He didn’t, at least not until they were seated at their table and the waitress had left with their order.
“Excuse me for asking, but don’t you like Blake?” he said.
She smiled to soften her words. “Of course I do, but I’ve worked with Blake a couple of years now. Sometimes he thinks everyone is there purely for his benefit.”
Joel grinned. “As a successful businessman, he’s probably right.”
She laughed. “Yes, that’s true.” Then she forced herself to relax against the back of her chair. “Now let’s talk about something else. I really don’t want to talk about the boss tonight.”
Joel smiled. “I’m more than happy to oblige, Sam. Now tell me …”
They had a pleasant evening after that. As predicted, they talked about her family’s business and her experience in transcribing, though Blake’s earlier derogatory comment about deciphering handwriting spoiled the discussion for her. Did Blake always have to be there at the back of her mind?
Unfortunately by the time the evening was half over, Samantha knew Joel wasn’t for her. He was handsome and he was a nice guy, but they really didn’t have anything else in common, much to her disgust. Not like her and Blake. She grimaced. No, she and Blake had nothing in common either—except the job and an attraction that she hated to think was really only on her side. Shades of Carl came to mind.
“Sam?”
She pulled herself back from thoughts of the past. “Sorry, I remembered something I forgot to do,” she fibbed, then she smiled. “But it can wait. Now, what were you saying?” She would have a good time if it killed her.
It nearly did.
Her social life and her work life were the same thing, so she’d never lacked for company at business dinners and parties. But she wasn’t used to being on a date and having to tune in to one person for hours on end. It was very draining.
Unless of course that person was Blake. He never bored her. Every minute of every day he challenged her like no other person on earth. Life with Blake was the adventure she’d always been after. One she soon had to leave, she remembered, her heart constricting. She pushed the thought aside. She would get through this.
“We should do this again, Sam,” Joel said, holding open his car door for her on their return to Pine Lodge.
It was strange, but for some reason an evening of being called “Sam” had started to get on her nerves. It wasn’t Joel’s fault at all, but it was as if the shortened version of her name was an issue between her and Blake and therefore belonged only to them now. And that was rather pathetic.
“I’ve got plans tomorrow night,” Joel said, dragging her from her thoughts. “But I’m free after that. Would you like to go to a movie on Monday night?”
She hesitated, feeling a little bad in using him. She didn’t want to go out with him again, yet if she didn’t continue with her plan to try and make Blake jealous, then Blake would think he’d won. She wouldn’t give him the satisfaction now.
She got out of the car, with Joel doing the gentlemanly thing and assisting her. “I’d like that, but let me get back to you tomorrow, if that’s okay.”
“That’s fine.”
All at once she felt his hand move from her elbow to her chin. It was a smooth move and said this guy knew what he was doing, so perhaps using him shouldn’t really cause her concern after all.
“But first …” he murmured.
She didn’t resist even though his kiss wasn’t something she wanted, and not because he wasn’t an attractive man. Despite still being angry with Blake for trying to manipulate the situation earlier this evening, she wanted it to be Blake’s lips—and only Blake’s lips—on hers.
Suddenly scared that she might never want another man to kiss her, she raised her mouth to Joel. Perhaps Blake’s attraction for her was merely in her mind? Perhaps she needed to be kissed by another man just to remind her—
“Don’t let me interrupt,” a male voice muttered.
Blake.
Samantha jerked back guiltily and Joel stopped, and they watched their employer stride past them and go inside Pine Lodge. He’d been walking from the direction of Jarrod Manor, where he must have gone after dinner.
“That was good timing,” Joel said, over her thudding heart. Unfortunately her heart’s thud wasn’t for her date. It was for another man.
“Now, where were we?” Joel murmured, lowering his head and placing his lips on hers, making her conscious of one thing. She’d have to stretch her neck higher if it was Blake kissing her.
Blake sat on the couch and tried to get the image of Samantha about to kiss another man out of his head. She’d been swaying toward the doctor like she’d needed a shot in the arm. If she didn’t get inside here pretty damn quick he was going looking for her. On the pretext of her safety, of course.
And he was concerned for her safety. That and other things. She was clearly ready to jump into bed with the first man who looked twice at her, and all to get back at him for not letting her walk away from her job. Hell, if he’d agreed to that she would have already gone from his life. His gut twisted at the thought.
The front door opened right then and in she walked. His pulse began to race when he saw she was alone.
Good girl.
She seemed distracted as she headed for the stairs, undoing the buttons of her coat as she walked. Then she saw him sitting on the couch and her eyes flared with pleasure before she seemed to catch herself.
For a moment his breath stalled. She’d never shown any sort of emotion toward him before. They got on well together but it had always been business between them. He should be perturbed, yet he knew he could use it to his advantage.
Then her mouth tightened as she came toward him. “Are you waiting up for me?” she said, her tone less than friendly, making him question if it had been a trick of the light before. He mentally shook his head. No, he knew what he’d seen.
“Can’t a man have a drink before bed?” he drawled, relaxing. She was home now … with him … and that’s all that mattered.
Her top lip curled. “You certainly didn’t have to worry about drinking and driving, did you?”
He pretended ignorance. “No, I didn’t.” He indicated another glass of brandy on the coffee table in front of him. “I poured a nightcap for you. Sit with me.”
An odd look skimmed across her face. “Perhaps I’d prefer to go straight to bed.”
If one of his dates had said that he would have taken it as a come-on. But Samantha was a challenge in a different way. Did she know what she was inviting in that dress? Did she have any idea what she actually did to a man’s libido? All at once he was enjoying what he now suspected to be her sexual naïveté.
“One drink,” he coaxed. “And you can tell me all about your evening.”
She paused, then put down her evening purse and began undoing the rest of her coat buttons. Slowly she began taking it off in an unintentional striptease, exposing the sexy pink material beneath. How had he never before noticed what a stunner she was?
She sank down on the opposite chair and gracefully picked up the glass, indicating the already poured brandy. “You were so sure I wouldn’t take Joel up to my room, were you?”
He hadn’t been, no. “Yes.”
She took a sip then considered him. “You certainly tried hard enough to make it not happen.”
“Did I?” He was feeling rather proud of himself for putting obstacles in her way tonight. It must have worked or she wouldn’t be here now. With him.
“You know you did, and I don’t appreciate it. You’re trying to make sure you get every last bit of work out of me before I leave.”
Is that what she thought? “Maybe I was protecting you?”
She gave a short laugh. “From what? Having a good time?”
He looked over at her kissable lips that had recently been beneath another man’s … and something became even more determined inside him. If she was going to have fun, she was going to have it with him.
He forced a shrug. “I just think you need to look at who you go out with in future.”
Her lips twisted. “Thanks for the tip.”
He’d never known her to be sarcastic, not like she was lately. It was … energizing, he admitted, watching as she eased back in her chair, the soft silk stockings making a swishing sound as she crossed her legs. He’d give anything to reach out and smooth those long legs with his hands. Or perhaps his lips …
Before he could put words to action, he told himself he had to slow it down. He didn’t want to frighten the lady by going too quickly. Time was running out but he had to let her lead. Tonight, anyway. Tomorrow—when she was in a friendlier mood—was another day.
He took a sip of his brandy and let it soothe his throat. “So. Did you have a good time tonight?”
Her eyes darted away briefly. “Yes, I did. Very much.”
She was lying. “I bet.”
She arched one of her elegant eyebrows. “I hope you didn’t put much money on that bet, Blake.”
“I didn’t have to.” He knew women, both in the business world and out of it. She was lying. And he was intensely relieved.
A soft smile curved her lips. “Joel really knows how to treat a woman.”
She was still lying. And he found that fascinating. “Sure he knows how to treat a woman. The guy’s a womanizer.”
“I suppose it’s easy enough to recognize one’s own sort.”
He had to chuckle. She made him laugh. Then he saw a touch of real amusement in her eyes and something connected between them. She quickly looked down at her glass, hiding her eyes for a second.
He started to lean forward. “Samantha …”
Her head snapped up. “For your information, Joel’s a very nice man,” she said, making it clear she was trying to ignore the sudden sexual tension in the room.
It was a wasted effort. “I’m sure he is. Ask any woman in Aspen.”
She sent him a defiant look. “Don’t think I wouldn’t go to bed with him if I wanted to, Blake.”
She was all talk, but his gut still knotted at her words. “Obviously you didn’t want to, or you would be in bed with him this very minute. Am I right?”
“No, you’re wrong. I mean, yes … I mean, mind your own business.” Her lips pressed together. “I’ll sleep with whoever I want when I want.”
“You’re being very contradictory tonight, Samantha. They’d eat you alive in the boardroom with that attitude,” he mocked.
She stiffened. “Listen, Blake, I’ll sleep with any man I want when I’m good and ready. Tonight I just wasn’t ready. And in case you didn’t notice, this isn’t the boardroom.”
No, but he did want to eat her alive right now. He wanted to kiss her and take away the imprint of another man’s lips, his hands itching to slide up over her hot dress and lift that hair off her nape himself, exposing the soft skin beneath to his lips.
Adrenaline pumping through him, he knew it was time to take action. He’d had enough playing games tonight. He wasn’t one to sit on the sidelines for long. He needed to know if her lips were as good as they looked, if her body would curve to his touch, if the skin at her nape was soft and sensitive.
Surging to his feet, he removed the brandy glass from her hand and put it on the table. He heard her intake of breath as he pulled her to her feet, but nothing would stop him now. Already he could feel a mutual shudder pass between them.
“Blake?” she said huskily as he brought her into the circle of his arms, leaving mere inches between them. He’d never been this close to her before. Not close enough to see the rush of desire in her blue eyes. It knocked the breath from his body.
And then a sudden flash of panic swept her face and before he knew it, she had pushed against him and spun away. Scurrying toward the stairs, she left him standing there, his arms never feeling as empty as they did right now.
As hard as it was, he let her go. He could follow her and she would take him as her lover, but he knew all he needed to know for the moment. She wanted him. And he wasn’t giving up. His plans for seduction were still very much alive.
Samantha closed the door behind her and pressed herself back against it, willing her racing heart to slow down so that she could let herself think. She’d gone and panicked just now. Blake had finally reached for her and she’d blown it.
What was wrong with her! Being in Blake’s arms and in his bed was what she wanted most, wasn’t it? So why had she run away like a frightened deer? He must think her green when it came to relationships, which of course she was. One lover in high school, then falling in love in her mid-twenties, did not constitute experience. Not unless that included the pain of rejection, she decided, quickly pushing that thought away.
Then she knew.
Despite the spark of electricity when he’d grabbed her arm last night, this evening she’d managed to convince herself that his meddling was actually about the job and nothing more. But just now the desire in his eyes had thrown her for a loop again. He really did feel passion for her, and when he’d touched her they’d both felt that zip of attraction. It had overwhelmed her, that’s all.
Oh, Lord, what did she do now? Go back downstairs and beg him to make love to her? She couldn’t. She’d reached the limit to her little seductress act tonight. She didn’t have it in her to face him again so soon.
She took a steadying breath. Right, she’d messed this one up tonight, but something positive had come out of this. She now knew that Blake really did want to have sex with her. So if she wanted Blake, and he wanted her, then next time there should be no further problems.
She hoped.
Four
“Blake, did you get a chance to read those documents I gave you?”
Blake was in a good mood as he leaned back against the marble countertop. It was eight on Sunday morning and one of his younger brothers had come by Pine Lodge to discuss an upcoming project, but it was Samantha who was on his mind. Anticipation coursed through him as he remembered how sexy she had looked last night. Soon she would be his.
“Blake?”
Reluctantly he dragged his thoughts away from his assistant who was still upstairs sleeping in her room, to look at the man propped against the kitchen doorjamb. He hid a smile as he raised the coffee mug to his mouth. Gavin may look laidback but he knew it was all a facade. Taking on the job of building a new and exclusive high-security bungalow for Jarrod Ridge meant a lot to his brother.
“Yes. I’ve put them in the safe up at the Manor,” he said, deliberately misunderstanding him.
“And?”
Blake chuckled and put him out of his misery. “And I think you’ve done an admirable job of running with this project.”
Gavin began to smile with relief. “You do?”
“The intensive feasibility studies, as well as the building site and sustainability analysis reports you’ve put together, are impressive. But then, so were the ones you did for my Vegas hotels.”
Gavin’s grin widened. “It means a lot to hear you say that.”
Blake indicated the coffeepot on the bench. “Grab yourself a coffee.”
Gavin straightened away from the door and went to get a mug. “You know,” he said, pouring himself a drink. “I’ve really welcomed this challenge.”
“I can see that.”
Gavin shrugged shoulders made impressive by many hours working with his crew on various construction sites. “It’s nice to be home and together again as a family after so long, but I’m glad I don’t have to pamper people on a daily basis. It really isn’t my style.”
Blake nodded. “You’re a first-rate construction engineer, Gav, but I agree. There’s nothing like doing something you love.”
Gavin smiled, looking pleased. “You said it, brother.”
“Seriously. I’m proud of you.”
“You getting soft in your old age, Blake?” he teased.
“Probably.” Blake was proud of all his brothers and sisters. Well, his half sister, Erica, was another matter.
All at once, Gavin’s smile left him. “You realize Dad would never have said such a thing.”
Blake grimaced. “I like to think I’m not quite as cold as the old man.”
There was a moment’s silence as they both remembered their father. Blake refused to feel anything for the passing of a man who had shunned his children’s emotional well-being and so badly let them down. Donald Jarrod’s legacy had been more than the Jarrod Ridge Resort. It had been a legacy that his children keep their emotions on ice, avoiding personal commitment. And while both Guy and Melissa had found true happiness with Avery and Shane, Blake couldn’t see it happening for himself. Not at all. Nor for Gavin or Trevor either. That was just the way it was.
“That reminds me,” Gavin said. “You’re working out of Dad’s old office now you’re CEO, so wouldn’t it be more convenient to be living at the Manor, as well? Why are you staying here at Pine Lodge instead?”
Blake shrugged. “Actually it’s more convenient to be staying here. That way I can keep my hotel operations separate from the resort stuff.” His hand tightened around the coffee mug. “Besides, even though Erica’s moved into Christian’s place, they both spend most of their time at the Manor during the day. I don’t want to encroach on their territory. You know what newly engaged couples are like.”
Gavin shot him a mocking smile. “Since when have you ever taken a backseat to anyone, big brother? Or are you still scared of our new half sister?”
Blake knew Gavin was riling him, getting him back for stringing it out a few minutes ago. “I was never scared of Erica, as you well know.”
“You’re going to have to get over your dislike of her one day, buddy.”
Blake felt an odd jolt. “I don’t dislike her. I just don’t totally trust her.”
Gavin’s eyes narrowed. “She really doesn’t have to prove anything more to us, Blake.” He paused. “But I guess it’s all for the best that you stay here anyway. Your new assistant might not get on with the rest of the family as well as Samantha does.” A speculative look entered his eyes. “Yeah, whoever is coming in as your new PA, it’ll be much easier for them to keep the two businesses separate if you both stay here.”
Blake’s jaw clenched. He refused to even think about Samantha leaving, or someone coming in to replace her. And why was he surprised that word had gotten around the family? Samantha had said she didn’t want anyone to know, but obviously she’d told one person at least. It had to have been Erica. No doubt the two had shared some girl talk yesterday while they’d been shopping together.
“Samantha is not leaving,” he said tightly.
“That’s not what I’m hearing.”
“Shut up, Gav.” He slammed down his half-empty coffee mug. “Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some work to do.” He strode past his brother and out of the kitchen.
As he entered the living room, he heard a noise outside. He glanced through the picture window. Samantha wasn’t in bed asleep like he’d thought. She was standing on the bottom step of the lodge, dressed in warm clothes and a woolen hat, talking to a man who no doubt was one of the guests at the hotel. She must have gone up to the Manor to eat breakfast, probably with her doctor friend, and this guy must have followed her back like a lost puppy. No, make that a raccoon.
He heard her give a lilting laugh and his mouth flattened. The guy was in his forties and looked sleazy to Blake. And hell, Samantha looked like she was flirting with him. Didn’t she have any sense when it came to men? The sooner he showed her what it was like to make love to him, the better.
“Look at that,” Gavin murmured in his ear. “I think someone else may be working today … on Samantha.”
Blake glared at him, then strode over and pulled open the front door in a rush. If she was going to flirt it would be with him.
“How about us going for a scenic drive?” the man was saying. “Maybe even do lunch in town? I know it’s pretty quiet at this time of year, but we should be able to find somewhere to eat. What do you think?”
“I—”
“I think I need to speak to my assistant,” Blake cut across her as he stepped out on the porch. They spun to look up at him. “Samantha, I need you to make some calls to Vegas for me.”
She sent him an annoyed look, making it clear she didn’t like the interruption. “Blake, it’s Sunday and most of the offices are closed. It’ll have to wait until tomorrow.”
He had the urge to remind her that last night he could easily have taken her to his bed. She wouldn’t have minded that interruption, he was sure. “Then I need you to help me with something else.”
Her lips tightened. “So I’m not going to get any time off now until I leave?”
“No.” He turned to go inside and waited but realized she wasn’t behind him. “Coming, Samantha?”
Her chin tilted stubbornly. “I’ll be there in a minute.”
Blake saw Gavin’s look of amusement as his brother pushed through the doorway then descended the stairs two at a time, calling out a greeting to the pair as he left.
Blake went back inside. He didn’t hear her following. Counting to ten, he waited but he could see her still standing there chatting. At that moment something occurred to him. Wasn’t it strange that she’d been jumpy with him last night, yet she seemed perfectly at ease with Mr. Sleazy down there? And what about last night with the doc? She hadn’t seemed nervous around the guy.
So what did that tell him? That she was flirting with men she considered safe? Which meant she must feel nothing for them, he mused. Nothing at all. The thought filled him with relief.
As for what she was feeling for him … there was definitely something between them. Yeah, she knew they’d be explosive together in bed.
And that begged the question. Just how far was she prepared to go to fight her desire for him? More importantly right now, did she have any idea what she was inviting by leading those other two men on?
Making a decision, Blake pulled on his jacket and boots, grabbed his car keys and strode back out into the chilly air. “I need to go check on something,” he said, going down the stairs, “and I want you to come with me, Samantha.” He bared his teeth at the other man in the semblance of a smile. “Sorry, buddy, but I need my assistant.”
“Blake—” she began.
“This is important.” He cupped her elbow and began leading her toward the side of the lodge to the garage where he kept his black Cadillac SUV.
She glanced over her shoulder and called out to the other man. “I’ll talk to you when I get back, Ralph.”
Blake gave a snort as he clicked the remote to open the garage door.
“What was that for?” Samantha hissed, hurrying to keep up.
“I hope you’re not thinking of dating Ralph. The guy’s old enough to be your father. Hell, he’s even got a name to match.”
She hid her satisfaction. “Perhaps I’m attracted to older men?”
He sent her a knowing look. “Then you’d better not dress like you did last night. He doesn’t look like his old ticker could handle a woman, let alone a sexy one like yourself.”
Her own “ticker” jumped around inside her chest and she tried not to blush. She loved hearing that Blake thought her sexy, though she wasn’t sure why he was looking so confident all of a sudden. Still, this time she wasn’t going to run away from him if he made a move on her. No repeat of last night, she told herself firmly.
They entered the garage, but it was only after she slid onto the passenger seat of the SUV and was putting on her seat belt did she remember something. “Didn’t you say this vehicle had an oil leak?”
Blake smirked at her. “Here’s the thing. I took another look earlier and it wasn’t leaking after all. The problem must have been with someone else’s car.”
“Now there’s a surprise.”
“It was to me, too,” he drawled, starting the engine.
No wonder he looked pleased with himself, she decided. He’d orchestrated the “poor me” routine last night over the oil leak, and now he’d put a stop to her going out with Ralph. Not that Ralph was her type, though he seemed very nice, but he was a man and one she could flirt with for Blake’s benefit.
Once the vehicle had warmed up, she took off her gloves as he reversed out of the garage.
“Where are we going?” she asked, when he started along the narrow road lined with thick trees, and it became clear they were heading for the main entrance to the resort.
“You’ll see.”
For a second she dared hope this might be about spending some time alone together away from everyone else. “Is this really about work?”
“What else?”
Disappointment wound its way through her. They were clearly still employer and employee. Had last night merely been an aberration on his part because of the late night and close proximity? Was this once again about Blake trying to stop her from leaving her job, rather than him actually wanting her?
Back to square one.
Soon Blake was driving past the two stone pillars with the brass Jarrod Ridge Resort sign, and turning the SUV onto the main road but in the other direction of town. At this time on a Sunday morning there wasn’t much traffic and further along he took another turn onto a side road. She wondered where they were going as they drove through stunning natural scenery filled with golden fall colors that would soon disappear under winter-white, but it was no use asking him again. Blake only did what he wanted to do and he would tell her only what he wanted her to know.
Remembering Gavin had visited Pine Lodge this morning, she suspected then where they were going. Farther along, Blake pulled over onto a slot of land that looked out over the Roaring Fork River weaving its way through a lush green picturesque valley between towering snow-dabbled peaks. The Jarrod Ridge resort was nestled like a crown jewel amongst it all.
He stopped the vehicle and cut the engine.
He didn’t speak at first, just stared straight ahead, so she had to ask the obvious. “Why did you bring me here?”
He nodded his dark head at the majestic mountain panorama before them. “I wanted to show you where the new private bungalow will be built.”
“I see.” Her suspicions were correct, but the way he spoke made her heart sink. It was as if he had acknowledged she was leaving now. Like he was showing it to her—while he still could.
“Let’s take a closer look.” He started to get out of the car then glanced back at her, his gaze going to the woolen hat on her head. “Put your gloves on first. There’s no wind but it’s chilly.”
A couple of seconds later they were standing in front of the black SUV, looking at the breathtaking alpine backdrop in front of them.
He pointed to a wooded area near the bottom of the mountain to the right of the resort. “See that over there? That’s our silver mine where we used to play as kids. One of my ancestors started up the mine but it’s been out of use for over a hundred years.”
“How interesting,” she said, meaning it.
“The bungalow will be farther up the mountain but not too close. We don’t want to destroy the historical significance of the mine.”
She’d briefly seen the documents Gavin had given Blake, and heard them discussing it at times, but Gavin was the one running with this project. He was keeping it very much between himself and Blake at this stage, though she knew they were keeping the rest of the Jarrods up to date.
“See that rocky outcropping?” Blake continued. “That’s close to where we’ll build the bungalow. It’s going to be super luxurious with top-of-the-line security. There’ll be iris-recognition scanners plus the usual cameras and motion detectors. Personal safety will be a must, as will our guests’ privacy.”
She could picture it in her mind. “I’m really impressed. It’ll be great.”
He nodded. “It’s just what Jarrod Ridge needs to stand out above the rest,” he said, a proud look about him as he appraised his family’s empire.
An odd tenderness filled her as she glanced up at his familiar profile. There was something so attractive about a man confident with himself. An aura that pulled a woman close and made her want to get under it, to become a part of the man no one else knew.
All at once he turned toward her, his gaze fixing in on her. “Why are you looking at me like that?” he asked quietly.
Caught!
She cleared her throat. “I was thinking how much you enjoy a challenge. You’re suited to these mountains.”
He looked pleased. Then, “You could be a part of all this, too, you know.”
Her heart stumbled. Had he brought her here for another reason? “Wh-what do you mean?”
“You love it here. You won’t be happy anywhere else.” He paused. “Think carefully before you walk away from your job, Samantha.”
The job.
She groaned inwardly at her stupidity. Had she really thought this confirmed bachelor had been about to pop the marriage question to his personal assistant? What on earth was the matter with her? Hadn’t she learned her lesson with Carl? The thin air must be making her imagine things that weren’t and could never be. Not that she’d ever consider it anyway.
She took a shuddering breath before speaking. “I have thought about it, Blake.” Very much so. She hadn’t stopped.
He turned to face her. “Stay, Samantha.”
“I … I can’t.” If it had been a plea, she might have considered it. As it was, she knew this was basically still about him being inconvenienced.
She went to turn away. She couldn’t face him fully. The last thing she wanted was him seeing she’d mistakenly assumed he was talking marriage a minute ago. What a fool she was for even thinking it, let alone believing he might be thinking it, too. This wasn’t about anything more than desire, she reminded herself.
His fingers slid around her arm and tugged her back. “Why are you being so obstructive?”
She couldn’t feel the pressure of his fingers through her thick jacket but she knew they were there. “Obstructive to what?”
“To me being concerned for your well-being.”
She ignored the thud of her heart. “Oh, so that’s why you won’t let me finish up my job early?” she scoffed, knowing this was the only way she could handle him. “You’re concerned for me?”
He froze.
Silence surrounded them.
Then, he said quietly, “I am, actually.”
She gasped midbreath. “Why, Blake? Why are you concerned for me?”
“Why wouldn’t I be?” As he spoke she could feel his eyes almost pulling her toward him.
“Um … Blake …”
He drew her toward him and bent his head. He was kissing her before she knew what was happening, instantly destroying any defenses she may have drawn on, regardless that she wanted him so very much. Like an avalanche rolling down a mountain, she fell—and it was just as devastating.
Then he slid his tongue between her lips and she opened her mouth to him fully. Hearing his husky groan, she wound her arms around his neck and held on to him, trusting him, knowing where he took her she would follow.
Time blurred.
And then, amazingly, he was slowing things down, giving her back herself, letting her regain focus. Finally, he eased back and they stared at each other.
“Oh, my God!” she whispered, awed by the sheer complexity of the kiss that should have been simple and wasn’t. It left her trembling.
He was feeling something equally as powerful. She could see it deep in his eyes. He truly desired her. Her dream of being in his arms was finally becoming a reality.
His cell phone began to ring.
He remained still, not moving, and she knew why. Nothing could take away from the strength of this moment between them. Here in the mountains it was like they were the only two people alive.
Then as quickly as she thought that, he blinked and turned away, breaking the moment. She heard him answer it, but she couldn’t seem to move. She understood why he had turned away. Why he had broken the moment. It had been too much for him. For her. For them both. Without him looking at her, she could take a breath again.
She did.
And then she found she could move. She swiveled to go get into the SUV, needing to sit down for a minute and feel something solid beneath her.
She took a few steps but as she went to reach for the door handle, her feet slipped from under her on a patch of ice and, with a small cry, she felt herself falling backward … backward ….
She frantically made a grab for anything within reach, but there was only the air and she felt her legs going up and her body going down, her back hitting the grass, then her head on something harder. She literally saw stars ….
The next thing she knew Blake was dropping to his knees beside her. “Thank God!” he muttered, when he saw her eyes were open.
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