AIDEN'S BAYOU

Venturing out alone for a short boat ride on the Louisiana bayou hadnt seemed like such a bad idea, not when it meant escaping the pressure her parents were putting on her to marry a man she didnt love. But that was before the storm blew in and the motor went out and the boat took on so much water shed been forced to row to land where hungry crocodiles were milling around hoping for a midnight snack. Rescued from certain death by the mysterious Quinten Hawke seemed like a Godsenduntil he informed Aiden shed have to spend the night in his bed.

Chapter 1

So she wasnt exactly a virgin. It wasnt as if shed robbed a liquor store or committed some other heinous crime like pawn the family jewels or divulged the fact that her mother had a tummy tuck and fanny lift last year. Aiden didnt know too many women her age who were virgins, but that didnt mean she was promiscuous or that she engaged in casual sex like a lot of her friends.

In all her twenty-four years shed had precisely two lovers, although she couldnt really consider Giovanni Augostino a lover since theyd only spent one night together. And what would her parents have to say about that little liaison, shed like to know. Or maybe she wouldnt, Aiden grimaced inwardly.

Shed been a starry-eyed teenager when Giovanni seduced her into sleeping with him, her young heart as innocent about love as it was about men. At seventeen, Aiden still hadnt quite shed what her sainted mother referred to as her adolescent chubbiness, so she was surprised and extremely flattered by Giovannis sudden interest in her. Eight years her senior, he seemed so suave and worldly compared to the boys she knew from school, not to mention incredibly handsome.

With that same dark, Italian mystique that followed her own father around, Giovanni could have had any woman he wanted. What a nave little fool shed been to believe hed actually chosen her because he desire her as a woman and not just as a way to ingratiate himself to her parents. For an entire summer hed followed her around under the pretext of keeping her

safe from the non-existent hoards of horny teenage boys who were dying to take advantage of Demetrio Lucisanos only daughter.

She didnt realize until it was too late that the position he really craved was Head of Security for her fathers corporation, Lucisano Trading. Aiden could laugh about it now, but shed been utterly crushed when she first realized Giovanni had only been using her. His seduction had been subtle; a touch here, a compliment there, and eventually a stolen kiss or two. She was sweet and pretty, hed told her, so unlike the powered and perfumed women that usually tried to worm their way into his bed.

Thats when shed first become aware of herself as a woman and had taken a good, hard look at the way shed neglected her appearance. Giovanni had encouraged her to ride her horse more often and spend time doing laps in the pool to help melt the pounds away. But it was the long walks through the winding trails surrounding the Lucisano estates that she enjoyed the most, especially once hed started holding her hand whenever they went and even more so after hed taken it a step further and introduced her to the thrill of making out.

What a glorious summer that had been. Shed fallen madly in love with Giovanni and had even learned to like herself. Under his tender administrations, the shy wallflower disappeared and its place a wild rose had grown. Shed trimmed down and gotten her hair cut into something stylish and easy to manage, and learned what a difference just a little bit of mascara and lipstick could make. Giovanni had complimented her endlessly and their trysts in the woods began to stretch out longer and became decidedly more arduous as the summer dragged on.

Her parents were delighted that Giovanni seemed capable of keeping their daughter out of trouble, especially since their friends were recounting tales of horror about their own children. Rebellion seemed to be the number one complaint followed by the use of alcohol and discovering their once prim and proper daughters were engaging in sexual activity before theyd even graduated from their teens.

She'd thrived on the sudden praise she was receiving from her mother who had always been so cold and distant in the past. Even her father occasionally set aside his newspaper or stopped talking business long enough to tell her how pretty shed grown and that he was proud of her for conducting herself like a lady.

Aiden let out a snort that would have earned a frown from her mother. She certainly hadnt been very ladylike when her legs had been wrapped around Giovannis thighs, or when shed begged him for more, more, more with each heavy thrust. Hed taken her three times that night and had sneaked out of her room early the next morning after professing his undying love for her.

His timing was perfect, of course, because it was that very morning that Demetrio had sat at the breakfast table and shocked Aiden by asking her opinion; something hed never done before.

I will be replacing Esteban at the end of this year, he said to no one in particular as he buttered his toast.

Christof, the oldest of her four brothers, was the first to comment. Esteban has been Head of Security since before any of us was born, why would you want to replace him?

It was not my choice. He has decided to go into business with his brother and will be relocating to New York. He has given me a six month notice and generously agreed to train the man I select as his replacement.

Selecting someone as good as Esteban could take months, the youngest of her brothers replied.

Under normal circumstances I would agree with you, Vincente, but he has already given me a recommendation that I am seriously considering.

Enzio and Gastone, who had remained silent until then, were suddenly very attentive. Aiden knew what they were thinking and fervently prayed their father hadnt decided to press one of them into the position because neither of them had any desire to quit college or to become a lackey in Demetrio Lucisanos corporation. For once, she was glad she was a female and wouldnt be forced to make a career move that suited her father rather than herself.

Is it anyone we know? Enzio fished.

Actually, Demetrio continued, it is the young man who has been watching over your sister.

Aidens eyes widened. Giovanni?

He seems very competent and if Esteban thinks highly enough of Giovanni to recommend him for the position, it would be wise of me to follow that recommendation, dont you think?

Yes, shed readily agreed.

You think I should offer him the position then?

Aiden glanced at her brothers who looked just as shocked as she was that their father was seeking her opinion. Demetrio Lucisano deferred to no one for his decisions and though he listened to his sons when they offered their advice, he never asked for it. She turned back to her father, feeling extremely grown up and important even if it was for only one miniscule moment.

Giovanni would be a wonderful replacement, father. Hes very devoted to his job and I know hed consider it an honor to be elevated to such a high position in your company.

I imagine an ambitious young man like Giovanni would have risen to the top in time anyway, Demetrio said. It must have been very difficult for him, wasting his skills by following a teenage girl around all summer when he was meant for much greater things.

Hes never complained, Aiden replied stiffly.

And that, my darling daughter, is precisely why I am going to offer him the job. He did as he was asked without question or complaint and that is exactly the type of man I want working for me.

Howhow soon would he leave here?

Demetrio polished off his coffee and stood up. I see no reason to delay his training. Be a good girl, Aiden, and go find him for me so I can speak to him in private.

Aiden had been in tears by the time she reached the stables where Giovanni had told her hed be waiting. He must have thought she was upset about losing her virginity to him because hed gathered her in his arms and assured her there was nothing wrong with two people sleeping together when they cared for each other as they did. Then hed wiped away her tears and kissed her until shed nearly forgotten what had brought her there in the first place.

Even after shed told Giovanni that her father wanted to see him and had allowed him to coax the reason for the summons out of her, she hadnt suspected that had been his game plan all along. He hadnt looked surprised, hed looked triumphant but Aiden was too upset about his leaving to wonder why that was.

Ill never see you, she said tearfully. Youll be as consumed by your job as Esteban is and wont have any time for me.

You are behaving like a child, Giovanni chastised. Of course I will need to focus on taking over for Esteban but that does not mean I wish for our affair to end.

Aiden drew away from him. Affair? But I thought

I know what you thought, he cut in sharply. Perhaps it is time you grew up and realized that love and sex are two very different things. Last night was one of most satisfying sexual encounters I have ever experienced; do not spoil it by demanding more than I can give right now.

You said you loved me, she choked out. You said

Aiden, I am very fond of you but you are so young and I know how emotional girls of your age are. It was your first time and I just wanted to make it easier for you to accept the loss of your virginity without any regrets.

So it was just sex to you?

Giovanni shrugged. To be brutally honest, yes.

Pain speared through her and shed lashed out at him. When my father hears about what youve done youll never work in the security business again, let alone at Lucisano Trading.

Giovanni gripped her arms, his face a mask of fury. If you breathe one word of what happened last night I will swear on my life that you were not a virgin and that you have been begging me for months to sleep with you. What do you think he will say when I tell him of the numerous rumors I have heard about how easy you are, that you have slept with at least half a dozen men?

Anger overrode the other turbulent emotions churning inside her. Hed never believe it, and even if he did hed demand to know who these men are. What will you do then, Giovanni?

His laugh was as cold as his heart. You really are just a child, my sweet Aiden. Money will buy just about anything, including men who will not only confess to their sins with you but happily divulge the sordid details. Do not attempt to go head to head with me, quello piccolo, I have spent too much time and patience these past few months to win your fathers approval only to lose it over the wounded pride of a little girl.

Thats when Aiden realized just how badly shed been used, and the self-confidence shed so recently gained was whisked away leaving her feeling cold and empty inside. In a voice that was devoid of all emotion, shed told him she would keep quiet about their night together but on one condition; that he never touch her again. For one fleeting moment, shed seen remorse flicker across his face before hed agreed then left her standing there all alone while he strode up to the house to reap his rewards.

Giovanni had packed and was gone the next day, for which she was grateful because she didnt think she could bear to look at him without falling to pieces. Aiden had done her crying in private, mostly at night when there was no chance anyone could witness the misery she was going through. It was another three months before shed seen him again at some charity ball her mother was sponsoring but by then shed felt nothing but contempt for him.

He was on duty of course and couldnt very well approach her, though it was obvious hed wanted to. His eyes had followed her around the room and shed felt victorious because during his absence Aiden had matured in more ways than one. That adolescent chubbiness her mother had belittled her about was gone and shed developed a shapely figure that turned more than a few heads when shed walked into the room.

Shed worn a pale teal colored gown that accentuated her newly acquired feminine curves and revealed just enough cleavage to be enticing without seeming indecent. The gown also complimented her auburn hair which had been swept into an elegant French twist, and was almost a perfect match for the blue-green tint of her eyes. Aiden had glided across the room with grace and dignity, something she was sure hadnt escaped Giovannis attention because hed suddenly lost his ability to focus on anything but her.

She offered a demure smile when shed gotten close enough for Giovanni to see it was directed at him. It worked like a charm; just as he took a step forward, Aiden latched onto the arm of Lance Beaumont, a young man she knew from previous events her mother insisted she attend. Shed flirted outrageously and was not only successful in igniting a jealous rage in Giovanni, but also found a cure for her broken heart. Lance had been completely captivated by her and had swept Aiden off the dance floor and into the gardens where hed proceeded to kiss her senseless.

That was the beginning of a rebellious streak that had continued until just a few short weeks ago when shed been summoned back to the Lucisano estates by her father. Shed entered into quite a stormy, albeit secret, affair with Lance that lasted six months before it ended abruptly after shed let herself into his apartment one day intending to surprise him. And, oh boy, had she ever accomplished that one. Shed planned on having dinner ready for him when he came home and had brought along a black lacy nightie to slip into afterwards.

Shed dropped the grocery back on the kitchen counter and headed down the hall towards the bedroom to stash the nightie and had gotten the shock of her life when she opened the bedroom door and found Lance in bed with one of her girlfriends. They were going at it like a couple of rabbits, doing the big nasty between the silk sheets Aiden had bought him a few weeks into their relationship. For a moment shed just watched in stunned fascination as the words Giovanni told her came floating back; it is time you grew up and realized that love and sex are two very different things.

Aiden had backed out of the room and shut the door with just enough firmness to let the cheating rat know that hed been caught. She practically ran down the hall, angry with herself

for not seeing that Lance hadnt felt any more for her than Giovanni had. Was it so much to ask that someone have genuine emotions for her? Or was she expecting too much out of a relationship? After all, her own parents barely showed any affection towards her so maybe there was just something about her that made it impossible for anyone to truly love her.

Aiden had made it to the foyer and was just slipping out the front door when she heard Lance call out her name. She supposed she could have stayed and argued it out with him and demanded to know why hed done it, but what would that accomplish except to make her even more miserable. It wasnt worth the effort or the heartache so shed stepped outside without a word, closing the door behind her.

Looking back on it now, Aiden realized thats when shed shut the door on her heart too. Shed been so young, so nave, but she was smart enough to figure out that she never wanted to get burned like that again. Having her heart shredded to pieces once was bad enough, but shed foolishly offered it up a second time with the same disastrous results. Shed steered clear of men ever since and resigned herself to the fact that she simply didnt have it in her to risk her heart a third time.

Having made the decision to live her life alone rather than suffer that kind of pain again, Aiden had to wonder if shed lost her mind to even consider getting married. Yet here she was, back in her fathers home and still trying to please her parents by entertaining the idea of marrying a man she had no feelings for other than a mild attraction. Theyd make the perfect couple, her father assured her, because the successful and wealthy James Champagne was as serious minded as Aiden was frivolous.

Its not that I dont have the greatest respect for James, shed spoken honestly, its just that Im not quite sure why he would approach you about marrying me when he could have his choice of women. And you said yourself that our personalities are in total opposition so how can you even suggest that wed complement one another?

Giselle Lucisano arched an elegant brow at her daughter. You should be elated that a man like James is interested in making you his wife. Hes even agreed to let you continue with yourhobby.

Aiden instantly bristled. Its not a hobby, mother, its a career, and I wouldnt even consider giving up my business.

Aiden, darling, Giselle drawled, repairing furniture is not a career and certainly not something a Lucisano should demean herself by doing.

I dont repair furniture, she replied heatedly, I restore antiques and Im very talented at it, not that youd know since youve never even stepped foot in my boutique.

Call it what you will

Giselle, we are getting off track, Demetrio gently rebuked her. The point is that James has confided in me that he has had his eye on you for a long time, Aiden. Of course I felt compelled to tell him of this wild streak you seem to have developed late in your teens, but for some odd reason that only pleased him even more.

Aidens defensive hackles went up. What wild streak is that, father? Just because I chose not to work for you in order to pursue a career of my own doesnt make me a rebellious child who needs to be reined in.

Perhaps I should have used the word independent, Demetrio said. Regardless, James admires that in you and has asked me to broach the subject of marriage. He realizes, of course, that this would be a marriage of convenience at the beginning but hopes that in time you will grow to love each other.

She wondered what her brothers thought about it or whether theyd even been told. They were fiercely protective of her, each and every one of them, so she highly doubted theyd be thrilled with the idea that their father was trying to coerce her into a loveless marriage. If it werent for her brothers, Aiden didnt think she would have been able to endure the lack of affection from her parents, so she knew shed have to talk to them before making any final decisions.

Shed placated her parents by telling them shed give it serious consideration. Her father seemed quite pleased that she was taking some time to weigh all the pros and cons while her mother had left the room in a huff, obviously convinced that her daughter was a fool for not grabbing at the chance to become Mrs. James Champagne.

Maybe she was a fool, Aiden sighed. James really was a nice a man and hed treat her with kindness and respect. She wouldnt have to worry about getting her heart broken again, and shed be able to have the children shed always dreamed of. Of course shed have to make sure he was sincere about letting her keep the boutique because shed worked too hard to make it the

success that it was. And there would be other things to discuss, like the fact she was never going to be one of those high society wives that thrived on dining at the Country Club with the rich and bitchy just so she could show off her latest designer dress or brag about her husbands massive wealth.

Oh, what was she doing? Why was she even thinking about getting married when shed just established her own identity and had come to terms with the quiet life she led? Because you miss the intimacy of being with a man. Because as hard as you try, you still long to be held and kissed and made love to.

But it wouldnt be like that with James, she reminded herself. She wanted the fire and passion that Giovanni had first ignited in her and the nights of hot, uninhibited sex shed had with Lance, but she also wanted something neither of them had given her; a true and abiding love.

Grow up Aiden, she chastised herself, this is not a fairytale and youre definitely not a beautiful princess.

Which meant there was no Prince Charming out there searching for her either, she thought despondently. With a heavy sigh, she curled up on the window seat and watched the horses prancing around in the pasture, idly killing time until her brothers arrived.

***

Christof was normally a very level headed man, but what his father and mother were doing to Aiden was archaic. You cant let them bully you into this marriage, he said heatedly.

I have nothing against James personally, but hes already confessed that he doesnt love you so what does he have to offer that you dont already have?

He could give me children, Aiden offered meekly.

Even you dont sound convinced that this marriage would work, Enzio accused.

Thats why I asked all of you here. And no, Im not entirely convinced a marriage without love could survive, but theres every possibility we would grow to love one another andand I wouldnt be alone anymore.

Gastone went to her then, lightly gripping her shoulders. You have us, Aiden. If youre lonely, all you have to do is pick up the phone and well be here for you.

I know that, but its not the same. She pulled away from him and dropped down onto the window seat, her eyes moving from one brother to the other. Is it so bad that I want to be married and have a family of my own?

But at what expense? Christof demanded. Aiden, youre a beautiful, intelligent woman and I dont doubt that James is sincere about wanting to marry you for just those reasons. But you have so much love to give and Id hate for you to marry this man only to discover hes not capable of making you happy.

Vincente, who hadnt stopped pacing from the moment theyd all gathered in her living room, turned to her with a worried frown. At least let us check him out before you make any decisions. He seems to be a decent guy but none of us run in the same circles he does so its impossible to know for sure what hes really like.

Aidens lip twitched. Are you going to question his past lovers personally, Vincente? Will you ask if he has ever raised his voice or struck out at them in anger? Or will you be looking into his business affairs to see whether he has amassed his great wealth through hard work or shady dealings?

That is precisely your problem, Enzio jumped in. You dont look before you leap and end up getting yourself in trouble. This is nothing to be glib about, Aiden. You know how mother and father feel about marriage. If you go through with this and realize it was a mistake, there will be no divorce without dire consequences.

She arched a brow. By dire, I assume you mean being cut out of fathers will.

Or possibly out of his life, Enzio said. Hell take it as a personally failing that he raised a daughter who couldnt hold onto her marriage, and rather than endure the shame and embarrassment of it every time he saw you, hed disown you completely.

Aiden waited for her other brothers to tell Enzio he was wrong, that it was ludicrous to suggest their father would cast her out like yesterdays trash if she disgraced the honorable Lucisano name, but it never happened. An uncomfortable silence fell over the room and for a moment she couldnt breathe. Did she really mean so little to him?

All her life shed known her father was disappointed hed had a daughter instead of another son, it was obvious by the preferential treatment they received and the way he puffed up with pride whenever he talked about them. Aiden had accepted that she would never measure up to her brothers, though it didnt lessen the sting any. But she never would have believed her father was capable of dismissing her from his life altogether.

It wouldnt matter what any of her brothers did, Demetrio Lucisano would never deprive himself of his sons while a losing a daughter probably wouldnt even faze him. There was only one way to get her father to look at her with pride and maybe even forgive her for the sin of being born female.

Aiden stood up with a determined lift of her chin. Thank you for putting everything in perspective for me, its made my decision so much easier.

Christof narrowed his eyes suspiciously. What exactly does that mean, Aiden?

Her smile was as frosty as her voice. What it means, big brother, is that Ive decided to accept James Champagnes proposal to become his wife.

Chapter 2
Aiden eyed her reflection critically and decided there wasnt much she could do if James was displeased with her appearance. If her parents had given her some warning that he was coming for dinner she might have had time to get her hair cut and done something about her nails but theyd sprung it on her allotted a whopping two hours to make herself presentable.

Shed been so consumed with her budding antique business this past year that she hadnt paid much attention to things like keeping her hair styled and it had grown well past the middle of her back. The untamed curls framing her face made her look like a gypsy but the varying tints of red shimmered like fire and brought out the green in her eyes so she left it down. Besides, she thought with a mutinous smirk, her mother would hate that she hadnt swept it up into something a little more chic and that was reason enough to wear it loose.

Shed had no choice on which dress to wear though, her mother made sure of that by having one of the maids lay it out on her bed while shed been in the shower. A small but irritating way of controlling Aiden because she preferred shorts or slacks over dresses, but in this particular instance she couldnt find fault with her mothers taste.

When shed lived at home, her closet had been filled with frilly feminine things that had magically appeared and more often than not went untouched until they were taken away and replaced with similar items. Apparently, Giselle Lucisano had finally figured out her daughter was never going to conform to the life of a socialite because the dress Aiden had on was simple but elegant and didnt have an ounce of lace on it.

She descended the stairs slowly, not because she was nervous exactly but because she wasnt quite ready to jump into what amounted to a blind date. Shed met James before of course, and shed even carried on her share of idle conversations with him but she didnt really know him. What was she supposed to talk to him about? How was she supposed to act? Did he expect her to be flattered by his proposal? Honored? A little bit timid? Why, why, why had she agreed to do this?

Because you dont think things through just like Enzio said, she chided herself. And wasnt that the God awful truth? She hadnt even considered the idea that Giovanni could be using her to gain a better position in her fathers company, and shed certainly never spared a single thought about jumping right into a relationship with Lance. If she had, she might have found out that he had a reputation for cheating on his women and that he never had less than two or three rotating in and out of his bed at one time. It made her stomach turn to think shed been sleeping with him at night after hed already bagged some other woman in the same bed earlier that day.

At least she hadnt made a total commitment to this marriage yet, though her mother was going to go ballistic if she didnt go through with it. But she couldnt think about that right now, it would drive her crazy if she did. She found them out by the pool, enjoying the tail end of a breezy summer day but instead of joining them right away, she stood back and watched them.

Her mother was all poise and grace, looking positively elegant in a white lacy dress that conformed to her slim figure flawlessly, and her father was as handsome and forbidding as ever though he was dressed in khaki slacks and a simple white short sleeved shirt. They made quite a

striking pair; Giselle with her French heritage and Demetrio looking every bit the ruthless Italian tycoon that he was.

James seemed perfectly relaxed with both of them, a feat she had to applaud him for because her parents had to be putting him through the wringer. Whether either of them truly loved her or not didnt matter, she was a Lucisano and they wouldnt allow her to marry a man who hadnt been thoroughly checked out before accepting him into the family. She studied his face as he talked and thought he was even better looking than she remembered, especially when he smiled. James had a nice smile, one that he turned on her when he happened to glance over and see her standing in the doorway.

He rose immediately and came to her, taking both her hands as he pressed a soft kiss to her cheek. Aiden, youre as beautiful as ever, he said with a husk in his voice.

Thank you, she mumbled.

Lunch wont be ready for another twenty minutes. I thought maybe you and I could take a stroll in the gardens together while we wait.

She smiled gratefully, happy to stall the barbs her mother was sure to throw at her for wearing her hair down. He looped one arm loosely around her waist and told her parents theyd be back shortly then propelled her down the garden path until they were no longer visible from the house. They stopped beside a bench, but instead of asking her to sit with him, James gently pulled her into his arms.

I want to ask you something, Aiden.

Her stomach did a complete somersault and lodged itself in her throat. Oh God, he was actually going to propose right here, right now? She thought theyd have time to talk first, to get to know one another a little better, discuss the future and what they were both looking for in a partner. He must have seen the panic stricken look on her face before she could mask it because his own expression softened.

I know this may seem a little awkward at first but I promise to take it as slow as you need me to so we have time to get to know one another better. If its too soon to ask for a kiss, Ill understand.

Akiss?

Ive wanted to kiss you for a very long time, Aiden, but if youre not ready

No, II mean, yesthat would be nice, she finished lamely.

A kiss she could handle, she thought as he drew her closer and lowered his mouth to hers. As kisses went, it was pleasant enough but she was a little disappointed by the serious lack of chemistry. Not that shed expected there to be fire and passion but she would have thought a man whod supposedly had his eye on her for quite some time would be bit more amorous. Still, she could hardly fault him for being gentle with her, though it did make her hesitant to offer more than a timid response.

My sweet Aiden, he sighed, pressing his cheek to hers. When Demetrio warned me that you had no experience with men, I have to admit I had my doubts. After all, youre a

beautiful, desirable young woman, but its obvious by your shy little kisses that you really are as innocent as he claimed.

Aiden drew her head back. Guilt speared through her when she looked into his adoring eyes because it was evident the poor man was completely besotted with the idea of taking a virgin for his bride. She should have said something but how exactly did you confess to something like that? Um, James, my father may have overstated that virginal thing? It was embarrassing to say the least and she could feel the heat in her cheeks burning hotter the longer he gazed at her. It was her misfortune that James took that as yet another sign of her inexperience with men.

Youre blushing, he said with smile. Dont worry, my darling, I promise not to ask for anything more intimate than kissing until our wedding night.

The air was sucked from her lungs when she realized hed taken that one simple kiss and construed it as acquiesce to his marriage proposal. How could she tell him that shed felt nothing at all when hed kissed her or that the mention of their wedding night filled her with dread because she didnt love him and didnt think she ever could, no matter how kind he was. And James was a kind man; she could tell by the careful way he held her, as if she was a delicate flower that could easily be crushed by his strong arms.

James, II think theres something you need to know about me.

Its okay, Demetrio told me all about it. He smiled warmly. He was afraid that telling me about your struggle for independence might make me change my mind but it did just the opposite.

You dont understand

I do understand, Aiden, and I admire your fighting spirit. When he told me how youd defied him and enrolled in college for business courses instead of coming to work for him, I was pleasantly surprised. And then when I learned youd actually started up your own business and were doing quite well at it, that just made even more determined to marry you.

It really doesnt bother you that I run my own business?

Not at all. Aiden, youre perfect for me. You knew what you wanted and had the courage to stand up to Demetrio to get it in spite of your docile nature.

Docile? Dear God, what had her parents told James to make him believe that? Just because she chose not to challenge her father every time she disagreed with him didnt mean she was a puppet on a string. At any rate, the only reason hed given in and let her pursue her own career was because he had four strong sons to help run his business. What asset could a daughter possibly be to the great Lucisano Empire?

My own business consumes a lot of my time, James continued. Of course Ill want you to be there when I get home and to be at my side when there are social functions, but I dont expect you to sit around the house waiting for me. Having something to occupy your time, something that fulfills you and makes you happy will be good for both of us.

Aidens eyes moved over his face. Thick brown hair, sky blue eyes, strong chin, sensitive lips. He really was a very handsome man. Good looking, kind hearted, wealthy; James Champagne was every womans fantasy. So why wasnt she attracted to him? Why did she still

think that marrying him would be the biggest mistake of her life? He could give her everything shed ever wanted; love, security, a home that wasnt ruled by a hard-headed, unyielding man, and eventually James would give her children.

A serene, uncomplicated life, thats what he was offering her, and for years Aiden truly believed thats what she wanted. But now that it was within her grasp, she was afraid to hang onto it, afraid that shed never again feel completely alive if she settled into a marriage where there was no passion. She couldnt do that to herself and she couldnt do it to James. He deserved better than that.

Aiden reached up and touched his cheek. James, I

Ill be a good husband, he promised. Youll never want for anything, Aiden.

The diplomatic protest she was about to launch died on her lips when James drew her closer and kissed her again. She felt like a horrible, heartless person for even considering hurting this wonderful man, but wouldnt it be more hurtful to marry him when she knew she couldnt make him happy? She had every intention of telling him the second James stopped kissing her, she really did. There were only two things that prevented her from doing it.

The first thing was the incredible warmth she saw in his eyes when he drew his head back. Shed experienced rejection up close and personal and didnt know if she had the heart to do that to him, not when he was looking at her like she was the sun and the stars and everything in between. Even then she might have had a fairly good chance of braving it out and telling him if the second thing hadnt happened. Aiden groaned inwardly when the soft rustle of material warned her someone else had strolled up the garden path and seen them kissing.

Well, Giselle Lucisano beamed at them, it looks like I have a wedding to plan.

***

Shed had some awkward moments in her life but this one took the cake. Aiden turned ten shades of red and was actually grateful that for once shed been rendered speechless because James handled it so much better than she could have hoped to. He seemed to understand that Giselle thought nothing of railroading over her daughters feelings, dismissing them as inconsequential because Aiden couldnt possibly run her own life as well as her mother could.

Tightening his arms wound around Aidens waist, he gently but firmly told her mother they werent ready to make any plans at the moment beyond getting to know each other better. Giselle looked at Aiden as if it was somehow her fault James didnt jump at the chance to let her take over, but he was quick to come to her defense.

Marriage is a big step, he smiled down at Aiden. I think its important that we learn more about one another before making that kind of a commitment. Ive asked Aiden if she wouldnt mind taking it slow and shes generously agreed.

Giselle smiled but couldnt refrain from taking at least one small jab at Aiden in the guise of a compliment. Im delighted to see you making such a mature decision, Aiden, especially since youre so prone to acting before thinking.

Shes young, James said, once again turning a warm smile to Aiden, and I admire someone who chooses to follow her heart rather than always doing what is expected of her. Its a form of courage that not all of us have, dont you think Giselle?

Aiden could almost feel the air turn brittle when her mother was more or less forced to agree. Protocol demanded it, and Giselle Lucisano was extremely rigid when it came to the rules of etiquette. One simply did not contradict a guest, especially not when that guest was the man who would take Giselles disappointment of a daughter away so she could focus on her sons. After informing them lunch would be served in ten minutes, Giselle hastily retreated so there was no chance they would offer to walk back with her.

Youve made her angry, Aiden sighed.

She made me angry.

She couldnt help but laugh. You dont look it. As a matter of fact, it probably upset her more because she thinks she hasnt ruffled you in the least.

Good, he said with a grin, then you and I can secretly gloat over it all through lunch.

Aiden laughed again. Im beginning to like you very much, James Champagne.

The feeling is mutual, Aiden Lucisano. Would you care to join me for lunch now?

Id be delighted, she mocked her mothers regal manner, which set them both to laughing.

Maybe it was because Aiden had her arm looped through his or because they were still sharing the light hearted mood when they returned to the table that made Giselle greet them with a genuine smile. She seemed so pleased that she hadnt driven James off with her derisive remarks about her daughter that she actually managed to make it through the entire meal without

any more disparaging comments. By the time Aiden walked James to his car, she was almost convinced her parents were proud of her.

Ive decided youre my knight in shining armor, she told him when they got to his car.

Whos come to save you from the fire-breathing dragon?

And the tyrannical ogre, she grinned.

James tucked a stray curl behind her ear, his expression sobering. It really has been somewhat of a prison for you here, hasnt it?

I sound like a spoiled little rich girl, I know. Its awful of me to complain when I was raised in such grandeur and been afforded every conceivable luxury a person could dream of.

Love isnt a luxury, he said softly, its an essential need that your parents have deprived you of, though I cant for the life of me figure out why.

Aiden shrugged. I was born female. As such, Im incapable of carrying on the great Lucisano name and therefore serve no real purpose.

James studied her face for a moment. Is that why you agreed to marry me, so you could escape this place?

She didnt remind him that she hadnt actually accepted his proposal. I dont live here anymore, but I suppose you could consider it a form of escape.

From the loneliness?

Aiden nodded. Im sorry, James. You must think Im a horrible person.

No, my poor darling, I dont think that at all. He gathered her in his arms and just held her for a moment. When he finally spoke, his voice was filled with tenderness. I could give you the love you long for Aidenif youd only let me.

She pressed her cheek more firmly against his chest, blinking back the unexpected misting of tears. It would be so easy to say yes, to let him fall in love with her and carry her off into the sunset, but she was still so uncertain about her own feelings. Oh why was she being so feeble minded when she knew in her heart that James was sincere and would do everything in his power to make her happy?

I dont know what to say, she managed to choke out.

You dont have to say anything right now. Aiden, I meant it when I told your mother wed take it slow. All Im asking is that you give me a chance, can you do that?

She tipped her head back and offered him a tremulous smile. Im an emotional train wreck, are you sure you want to get involved with me?

James leaned down and brushed a soft kiss to her lips. Im sure.

Youre a very nice man, James. I hope I dont disappoint you.

You couldnt if you tried. Do you mind if I drop by after work tomorrow? We could take a walk or go for a drive, whatever you want.

A drive would be nice. Any place as long it was away from here.

Its a date then.

He hesitated for a moment and Aiden knew it was because he wanted to kiss her again but was afraid he was pushing too hard. Dear, sweet James, how could she deny him such a small thing? She slipped her arms around his neck and was rewarded with a smile that would have melted her heart if shed felt anything more than warm affection for him. The kiss was slow and tender, just as shed expected it to be, but it was nice and she was glad that shed done it because hed driven away sporting an even broader smile than before.

Aiden took her time going back into the house, hoping that by now her mother would be in her sitting room and her father safely sequestered in his study. The lunch had gone well and she didnt want anything to ruin it. She wasnt in the mood to be chastised for stalling the wedding or answer the probing questions her mother was sure to hit her with. Shed nearly made it to the grand staircase leading up to her bedroom when Giselles voice sounded from behind her. Damn.

Id like to speak to you for a moment, Giselle said, then disappeared back into her sitting room.

Aiden gritted her teeth and did an about face. She should have raced through the front door and up to her room but it was too late now so she might as well suck it up and get it over with. Giselle was poised gracefully on the elegant sofa and though Aiden knew she was expected to take a seat next to her mother, she purposely planted herself in the chair opposite the sofa.

Giselle arched one perfectly shaped brow. Why do you insist on being such a difficult child, Aiden?

Im not a child, mother, and I wasnt aware that I was being difficult.

Shall we begin with your hair?

Whats wrong with my hair?

You know very well whats wrong with it. Im surprised James didnt ask for a copy of your birth certificate to prove he wasnt marrying a teenager. Hes almost ten years older than you are and though he doesnt seem to mind the age difference, Im sure he doesnt want people thinking hes yanked you out of high school. You might want to consider wearing a little makeup too.

But mother, she said with wide-eyed innocence, I thought you wanted me to look the part.

And what part would that be? Giselle asked icily.

Why, the sweet, young virgin just ripe for the picking.

Dont be so crude, Aiden. James is not out to corrupt your innocence. He has very high moral standards and expects the same from the woman he intends to marry, but the fact that you havent been with another man is only going to go so far if you talk like that in front of him.

Shame washed over her in waves. Im sorry, I didnt mean to infer James was anything but honorable.

Giselle seemed surprised by the sincerity of Aidens apology. GoodIm glad you recognize that. I hope this means youve come to your senses about putting off the wedding. Trust me, a man like James doesnt come along often and Id hate for you to delay it so long he loses interest.

Aidens hackles went up. James is perfectly content to take it slow, but if it makes you feel better hes going to come by tomorrow evening and take me for a drive.

Your suggestion no doubt, Giselle said dryly. Honestly Aiden, couldnt you at least invite him to dinner like an adult instead of asking him to drive around with no particular destination in mind? Hes not going to cater to these adolescent whims of yours forever, it will bore him to tears and then where will you be?

Stuck here with you nagging me for all eternity, Aiden thought morosely. Youre right of course, she sighed. Ill ask him to dinner.

Im glad we have that settled. Oh, there is one more thing, Giselle said just as Aiden was heading toward the door. Ive set a hair appointment for you tomorrow morning at ten. And for Gods sake dont be late; you know how temperamental Andre is.

Aiden managed to close the door quietly behind her in spite of the fact she was seething. She started for the stairs then changed directions and stomped outside instead, not quite sure where she was going but damn sure she wasnt going to stick around for anymore lectures.

Shed been sorely tempted to announce she had no intention of ever marrying James just so she could enjoy the melt down that would undoubtedly ensue but she was afraid her mother

would call him the first chance she got and repeat every word shed said. Even if she wasnt sure whether she could go through with it or not, shed promised to give him a chance and couldnt bear the thought of seeing James hurt at the hands of her spiteful mother.

Aiden stopped short when she found herself standing on the dock. It had been a long time since shed braved taking out a boat on her own, mostly because her dear mother had put the fear of God in her about being eaten alive by a crocodile or drowning in the swamplands of the bayou. She gnawed at her bottom lip, eyeing all the boats at her disposal.

The airboats were used by the staff because it was faster than driving into town whenever one of her parents required something that couldnt wait for the weekly run for supplies. They were perfectly safe she knew, but because the seat was so high she always felt a little uneasy about riding in one.

Her eyes migrated to a shiny new Swamp Ghost. It was a one man watercraft that was a cross between a boat and canoe and was made mostly out of aluminum so it only weighed about a hundred pounds. Tipping in it was nearly impossible but what she liked most about it was that it had an electric engine which meant it was steered by using pedal controls. More importantly, the engine was quiet enough it couldnt be heard from the house.

She could take a nice troll through the swamp for an hour or so and theyd never even know. And if they did happen to miss her, shed simply say shed gone for a walk in the woods. It was perfectly safe, Aiden told herself as she stepped into the boat and untied the rope. Using the oar, she paddled out a little ways before starting up the motor.

As the wind whipped through her hair, she forgot all about her parents and the path they were trying to push her down. She didnt think about the dangers of the swamp or what could happen if the boat capsized or the fact no one even knew shed gone out on her own. The only thing on Aidens mind was how good the warmth of the sun felt on her face and the incredible sense of freedom that filled her heart the farther away she got from the Lucisano Estates.

Chapter 3
The first droplets of rain water barely roused Aiden from the blissful little nap shed been taking. Shed started feeling a little sluggish, partially because of the lunch shed eaten and partially because of the humidity, so shed stretched out on the bottom of the boat with the seat cushion propped under head and just let the boat drift.

Shed only meant to close her eyes for a few minutes but the peace and quiet combined with the warmth of the sun had knocked her out. Still feeling groggy, she opened her mouth and let a few raindrops fall on her tongue before it dawned on her there was no longer any light filtering through her eyelids.

Aiden sat up abruptly then let out a startled yelp when the boat wobbled from side to side. Moss draped cypress trees lined both sides of the swamp and the eerie silence sent a shiver racing up her spine. Her stomach cramped as fear began to curl in a tight ball, not only because it was so dark she could barely see her hand in front of her face but because Aiden had absolutely no idea where she was. She couldnt even be sure how long shed been asleep because the dark skies could very well have been the result of the thunderstorm that was brewing rather than because nighttime had fallen.

Thank God the boat had running lights, Aiden thought as she started up the motor then nearly burst into tears when she realized the rain was beginning to come down harder and all but obscured her view. Still, it was better than being surrounded by complete darkness; if you could discount the fact the lights reflected off the eyes of the swamps inhabitants, that is. Namely, alligators.

Inanely, she recalled her science teacher explaining that their eyes reflect orange at night due to the pigment color in their rod retinas. Most of them seemed to be sticking close to the land, probably so they could catch other unsuspecting swamp critters when they came down for a drink, but that did little to comfort her at the moment.

The temperature was dropping fast and the rain was coming down in sheets, chilling her to the bone. She was soaked clean through but the summer dress and sandals would have afforded very little protection anyway. At any rate, dying of hypothermia at this point was preferable to becoming a midnight snack for a crocodile and thats exactly what was going to happen if the rain didnt let up because the bottom of the boat had already collected a good half inch of water. When exactly shed started to cry, Aiden wasnt sure, but the warmth of her tears assured her that she was indeed crying.

She kept the boat as close to the middle as possible but even then she had to veer off occasionally to avoid bouncing over a crocodile. The size of the boat made it easy to negotiate the twists and turns, she just wished she knew for certain she was heading out of the swamp instead getting in even deeper. Shed been gliding through the murky water for what seemed like hours and still nothing looked familiar, but who could really tell when the down pouring rain made it impossible to see more than a few feet in front of her?

It crossed her mind that the smartest thing to do was to stay in one place and hope someone came looking for her, but the thought of remaining in one spot while the water in the bottom of the boat got deeper and deeper was enough keep her moving. Oh God, she didnt want to die like this!

Aiden mentally shook herself. It wouldnt do any good to lose her head now. She needed to remain calm until such time panic was unavoidable. Like when the water in the boat reached a critical level, or when her feet were so cold she couldnt operate the pedal, or when the damn crocs began to sense her fear and moved in for the kill, or when

No, no, no, Aiden howled when the engine suddenly died along with the lights, immersing her in darkness once more.

Splashes from both sides of the banks alerted her to the fact shed stirred some interest in the alligators. She clamped her hand over her mouth to keep herself from screaming as her eyes darted back and forth in an attempt to discern if they were getting close to boat. A clap of thunder followed by a bolt of lightning squashed any hope she had that theyd gone back to patrolling the banks. A muffled cry filtered through her fingers when the boat was nudged from the right and then from the left, turning the boat so it was facing the land.

Aiden blinked, rubbed at her eyes then blinked again. A light! It was difficult to see exactly where it was coming from or even how far away it was, but this deep in the swamp it had to be the lights from a house. Feeling around the bottom of the boat, she fished out the oar and started rowing towards land. Her fingers were numb and the stiff muscles in her arms screamed in protest as she alternately paddled on one side and then the other to keep the boat moving in a straight line.

She tried to ignore the feeling that she was being stalked and focused on the beacon of light that was now her only hope for survival. The storm was only getting worse and she had nothing to dip the water out of the boat even if shed had the strength to do it. What little energy

she had left was being expending just rowing the boat but it was dwindling fast and it was only sheer determination that kept her going. Aiden had never been so cold or so scared in her life and shed have given just about anything at moment to be sitting next to her mother being lectured on what abominable offense shed committed this time.

Aiden was so intent on keeping her eyes fixed on the light that she wasnt even aware the boat had actually hit land until shed made several swipes through the water with the oar and realized she wasnt getting anywhere. Using the oar as a brace, she pushed herself up on wobbly legs and made her way to the bow of the boat. Leaning over the side, she jabbed at the ground with the oar to make sure it was solid then let out a shriek of terror when the oar was snatched away by a pair of powerful jaws.

Aiden instinctively jumped back but lost her footing in the ankle deep water at the bottom of the boat and landed on her rear end. She grabbed at the sides of the boat but the momentum of the fall combined with the slippery surface beneath her threw Aiden backwards. There was a sharp crack when the back of her head hit the aluminum seat followed by an explosion of stars behind her eyes.

For several minutes, she was too stunned to do anything but lay there while the rain mercilessly stabbed at her with icy fingers that seemed intent on finding every inch of exposed flesh. It hammered away at her until her skin was raw, the stinging pain of it giving Aiden the incentive she needed to force herself to sit up.

Her stomach lurched when she gingerly touched the knot on the back of her head and felt the warmth of fresh blood against her icy fingertips. The sudden stir of activity all around the

boat told her the gators had smelled it and were trying to figure out where it was coming from. Slowly, she lowered herself back down so they wouldnt see her and come lunging over the side of the boat. Her heart was pounding furiously in her chest, her breathing shallow and labored as panic began to overwhelm her.

Think. Think or youll never make it out of here alive.

Aiden closed her eyes and tried to remember what she knew about alligators. Normally they were ambush predators but the smell of blood had them all worked up. She could feel them bumping against the sides of the boat but so far they hadnt figured out it wasnt some protective armor and that the juicy entre was completely vulnerable just inches away.

If she leapt from the boat and made a run for it, there was a good chance shed catch them by surprise and be able to avoid the snapping jaws of the ones milling the closest. But in the dark, how would she know if she was heading towards a whole slew of them lurking beyond the more ardent hunters?

The light would guide her away from the bank, but it wouldnt do any good if she couldnt see well enough to get past the hungry crocs. Aiden lifted her head, fighting the nausea first then forcing back the groan of pain that speared through her. A small whimper escaped her lips when something bounced against her cheek and started to float away. She reached out for it, her nearly useless fingers curling around the small waterproof bag and dragging it up onto her chest. Somehow she managed to peel the airtight seal off and pull out the contents.

Aiden clutched the small flashlight in her hands, murmuring a heartfelt thanks to God before feeling inside for anything else that might be useful. The small bottle of water was

quickly discarded but she tucked an army knife she found down the front of her dress and inside her bra where it nestled between her breasts. It would be of little help since she didnt think she could pry one of the blades out even if she wanted to and it was hardly an effective weapon against a crocodile, but she might need it later to fend off other swamp creatures.

There was a small plastic box that rattled when she shook it; matches she assumed and tucked them beside the army knife. A cylinder shaped tube she surmised was a signal flare was too large to fit inside her bra but Aiden decided it wouldnt be coming with her anyway. If she was going to get around those evil beasts shed need something to distract them with and the flare was the only thing that would work. Maybe. If she could set the flare off. If the torrential downpour didnt put it out as soon as it hit the ground. If the gators followed the bouncing light instead of the scent of blood.

Shivering so bad she could barely hang on to the flare and flashlight, Aiden grimaced at the renewed activity not a foot away from her on either side of the boat as she struggled to get on her knees and inch her way to the bow. The dilemma now was that turning on the flashlight would immediately draw their attention but without it, how could she set off the flare? And once she set off the flare, would it fizzle and die immediately or give her the precious few minutes shed need to dodge the gators?

If only shed held onto the waterproof bag she could have put the flare inside and bought a little extra time, but she hadnt and by now it was filled with water and completely useless. Aiden suddenly remembered the bottle of water. Holding both the flare and flashlight in one hand, she twisted around and frantically felt around for the bottle. A strangled cry of frustration gurgled in her throat when it bobbed against her fingertips then skirted off when she tried to

grasp it. After a few more seconds of skimming her hand through the rising water at the bottom of the boat she finally got a firm grip.

There was another agonizing struggle to twist the top off because she had to use her chattering teeth or chance dropping the flashlight and flare. Her mother would have thrown a fit if shed seen Aiden jeopardize the years of costly braces and dental work it had taken to gain her perfectly even teeth but under the circumstances she was more than willing to risk a chip or two. After emptying the contents, she slipped the flare inside the mouth of the bottle. She only hoped the two or three inches that still protruded out would burn long enough so the rest of it would be protected from the rain by the bottle.

Sending up one last silent prayer, Aiden drew in a lungful of air and rose to her feet. Shed been prepared for the rocking motion because she expected the gators to really go crazy once they could actually see her. What she hadnt expected was that her legs would feel like lead weights and that her fingers would be so frozen she could barely depress the button to flick on the flashlight. How the hell was she supposed to set off the flare, toss it far enough to draw the alligator's attention, leap over the boat and dodge around half a dozen snapping jaws without falling on her face? But thats exactly what she did.

The only thing that kept her going was the sight of that blessed light in the distance. Aiden had stopped running as soon as she was sure none of the gators were giving chase but it wasnt because she had no strength left. The rush of adrenalin shed experienced from her perilous escape hadnt made the inevitable crash landing yet so she was fine on that score, at least for the time being. What was slowing her down was the slippery ground beneath her feet

and the flimsy sandals that were doing little more than inviting a twisted ankle or worse, a fall that would result in a broken bone or two.

Tangled tree roots covered in slimy moss made it almost impossible to keep her footing and it didnt help that the skirt of her dress had to be hiked up so she could step over them. She hadnt realized just how much that little scrap of material protected her from the slicing rain until she had the unpleasant experience of it drumming down on her exposed hinny. Every time she had to duck a low lying branch or straddle a particularly high root she got a cold slap on the bottom. If the owner of the house had a toasty fire going, Aiden was going to stand with her backside to it until her cheeks turned red.

It took forever to reach the overgrown pathway leading up to the porch and another eternity to haul herself up the stairs. Exhausted and half frozen, she had just enough energy left to rap on the door with the flashlight a few times before her arm dropped to her side. She heard the pounding of heavy footsteps just before the door was flung open, accompanied by a mans deep voice demanding to know what the hell she wanted.

It took her a moment to realize that it wasnt a wall in front of her but a massive chest. Her gaze traveled up and up until they locked on the dark eyes of a very angry man. His large frame filled the doorway, all six foot four of him, give or take half an inch. Even so, she could feel the inviting warmth from behind him, though his glacial stare should have been enough to stop any heat from passing by him.

Aiden tried to muster up a smile but the rattling of her teeth probably made it look more like a grimace than anything. She started to explain to him that shed gotten lost and the horrible

events that followed, but to her extreme consternation and his obvious irritation, the only thing that came out was a few squeaks and what could only be described as gibberish. When she finally gave up and clamped her mouth shut, the man just stared at her for a moment. Then he took a step back and slammed the door in her face.

Despair and then shocked disbelief were quickly followed by outrage. He did not just shut the door and leave her standing out here to die of the elements! And she had not survived hours in the pouring rain in unfamiliar bayou territory and escaped being eaten alive only to be turned away by a man who was cranky because of an uninvited house guest. She was tired and cold and hungry and whether he liked it or not, Mr. Sour Face was going to let her in right this instant or shed stand on his porch and scream like a banshee until he did.

Aiden didnt bother with a few polite taps; this time she used the handle of the flashlight to hammer at the door. At some point she realized she was hollering at the top of her lungs and using some very colorful language she was quite certain would have caused her parents to permanently exile her to a foreign country. She was just drawing in another lungful of air so she could launch into a second round when Sour Face yanked the door open again.

I want in, she croaked.

He looked past her as if he expected to find someone else lurking about before returning his hostile glare back to her. Aiden would have been scared half out of her wits to be scrutinized in such a manner if she hadnt just gone through the most terrifying experience of her life. As it was, the only thing that really frightened her was that she could feel the incredible heat radiating off his body and it made her want to lean into him and envelope herself in his warmth.

Look lady, he growled, Ill give you credit for originality but Ive seen just about every trick in the book so your damsel in distress routine isnt going to get you anything but a boot in the ass if you dont get off of my land.

Damsel in Aiden shook her head. I d-dont know what trick you think Im t-trying to p-pull but

Let me guess, he said caustically, you were out taking an evening troll through the swamp when you got caught in the rainstorm. Fortunately, you just happened to see my light and thought youd drop in to see if you could use my phone.

Theres a l-little more t-to it, she stammered. Good Lord, she was shaking so bad she could hardly get the words out from between her chattering teeth. J-just let m-me use your phone t-to call m-my father

Your father? His expression twisted into something that looked suspiciously like disgust. Oh, sweetheart, you should get an academy award for your performance. He dipped his head so that his face was just inches from hers. Youre nothing but a conniving little snoop, he snarled, and if you think that showing up on my doorstep looking as if youve been dragged through the swamp will elicit any sympathy from me, youre even more lame-brained than the little stunt youre trying to pull.

Aiden was sure she looked like an open-mouthed bass because her jaw had dropped the moment hed started in on her. In spite of the dire situation she was in, she had an overwhelming urge to give his arrogant face a good, hard smack before telling him shed rather die than spend a

moment longer in his company. Sanity, of course, returned to her only a second later because she most certainly would die if she remained outside much longer.

Y-youre not going t-to l-let me in?

He let out a derisive snort. Lady, you can lay down on this porch until hell freezes over and even then I wouldnt let you in.

Aidens chin jutted up. Fine, she retorted, then promptly dropped down onto the ground and stretched out at his feet.

He gaped at her for a moment before his dark scowl reappeared. You are one crazy ass broad, you know that?

She pressed her lips together and refused to respond. Hed have to give in now, she thought, but to her amazement he just stood there shaking his head. Never in her darkest nightmares had she envisioned her life ending like this; lying prone on the porch of an insensitive ogre who seemed content to just hover over her until she drew in her last breathe.

She squeezed her eyes shut against the sting of tears and prayed hed go away before any of them escaped. Unfortunately, he seemed to be thinking along the same lines because a few seconds later he stomped back into his house and slammed the door shut behind him.

She didnt move. What was the use? If she pounded on the door again hed just come outside and badger her some more before going back inside. It wasnt so bad really. At least shed stopped shivering so he wouldnt see her flopping around like a fish out of water if he decided to peek out a window to see if shed expired yet. Aidens mind started to drift.

She wondered inanely if hed bury her on his land somewhere or just toss her body in the swamp and let the gators have their snack after all. Obviously if he didnt have the decency to help save her life, he certainly wouldnt try to find out who she was so he could return her corpse to her family.

A single tear seeped from beneath her lashes. Would her parents even grieve for her? Or would they just think shed run off as an act of rebellion for trying to pressure her into marrying James? And poor James, would he think shed been so appalled at the idea of being his wife that shed rather vanish forever rather than commit herself to him? For his sake, she hoped James believed her disappearance had nothing to do with him.

She saw it all so vividly in her mind. Despite her parents assurance that she was fine and would come back when she was ready, her brothers would be frantic with worry. Theyd never stop looking for her, nor would they ever forgive themselves when they didnt find her. At least she could die knowing they loved her as much as she loved them. Another tear leaked out. No more, the thought whispered through her head. No more tears, no more unhappiness, no more

The door creaked open. Youre going to catch pneumonia, he snapped, thoroughly irritated that she hadnt moved a muscle in the past twenty minutes. Did you hear me? He took a step outside and then another. Mon Dieu, he muttered.

She was so incredibly pale and for one heart stopping moment he thought she really was dead until a soft moan sifted through her lips. He went down on one knee and reached out to touch her cheek then drew it back as if hed been shocked. She was ice cold and probably a hell

of a lot closer to death than life at the moment. He leaned down and scooped her up in his arms, grimacing at how frigid her whole body was. As he turned to take her inside the house, a dark stain on the porch caught his eye and he muttered another oath. Blood.

Okay, so hed been a calloused bastard to her. How was he supposed to know she wasnt just another rag reporter trying to pry into his private life? Or maybe she was, he thought with a frown. She looked incredibly young so maybe her boss had sent her out here without giving her any warning as to the dangers shed face trying to reach his house. And shed come alone, he was sure of it, but that didnt make him any happier about her being her. Hed just have to warm her up and patch whatever cut the blood was stemming from then send her little ass packing.

Quinten had spent the last two years trying to bury his past and he wasnt about to have it drudged up again, especially not by a smart mouthed, mule-headed woman who didnt have the sense to turn around and go back where she came from as soon as the storm threatened to hit. The bayou was no place to be for a woman on her own and he hoped this would serve as a lesson to her that it was just plain stupid to risk your life for a story. A story she wasnt going to get no matter how beautiful she was. Or sexy.

He stole a quick glance at her face and swallowed back a groan. Even covered in mud and looking like a drowned rat he could tell she was quite a stunner. It was hard to tell what color her hair was but judging by her light complexion it was probably red. Quin studied her face; high cheekbones, a spattering of freckles across a cute little nose, and perfectly sculptured lips. Her mouth was made for kissing. But not by him, he thought grimly as he carried her into his ensuite bathroom.

He needed to get control of his libido because this was definitely not a woman he wanted to get involved with. No, the sooner he got rid of her, the better.

Chapter 4
Aiden let out a small whimper. Shed been awakened from a blissfully peaceful sleep by a stinging sensation that began in her hands and feet and had slowly worked its way through her entire body. It was only mildly annoying at first but as the intensity of it continued to escalate, she tried to will herself back into the serene darkness shed been in, but something kept dragging her back.

It hurts, she mumbled, as the stinging morphed into a million tiny pin pricks.

It will pass, chri.

Aidens brows drew together but she still couldnt seem to open her eyes. The mans voice was familiar yetdifferent somehow. And hed obviously mistaken her for someone else because hed called her chri, a French endearment that she thought meant darling. Whoever he was, she was furious with him for waking her and held him personally responsible for the stabbing pain that was threading its through every miniscule muscle, tissue, and fiber in her body.

Vaguely it registered that she was being held up by two strong arms and that shed been taken back out into the rain. But the weather must have shifted dramatically because the water sluicing over her skin seemed almost scalding. A small frown tilted the corners of her mouth. It was that awful man. He was the one whod roused her from her sleep and now he was deriving some sick sort of pleasure by torturing her while she was too weak to fight back.

Let me go, she squirmed in his arms.

Not until youve warmed up, he replied firmly.

Warm? Her head fell back and she managed to eke her eyes open enough to glare at him. Is this your morbid way of paying me back for showing up at your doorstep, boiling me alive?

He arched an amused brow. If I wanted to pay you back I would have left you outside. And it only feels hot because your core temperature dropped so low but its actually luke warm. Now stop wiggling around before I lose my grip.

I dont like you, Aiden muttered as he pulled her closer, but even as she was thinking of some horrible name she could call him, she couldnt help being drawn to his body heat.

How long she remained plastered against him, she couldnt be sure. Time didnt matter; nothing seemed to matter except enveloping herself in the warmth he provided. Gradually, Aiden became conscious of a few disturbing facts. One; she wasnt outside in the rain, she was standing beneath a shower which meant she was inside the mans house. Two; she was naked as the day she was born. Three; even while her brain hadnt registered that Prince Charming was in the buff too, her body was obviously acutely aware of it.

Aiden suppressed a groan. Even if she could ignore the way her breasts responded to the friction of his skin against hers, it was highly unlikely he hadnt noticed how hard the peaks had grown. She could only hope that he attributed it to how cold she was, exceptshe wasnt anymore, not really. An internal heat had sparked to life the moment she realized she was pressed up against his incredibly masculine body and it warmed her from the inside out.

Oh, this was bad, very bad. Aiden mentally shook herself. She couldnt allow this irrational sexual attraction to distract her from the fact he was an insensitive jerk whod nearly let her die right there on his porch.

Im warm enough, she ground out. I want to get dressed now. She shoved against him then let out a startled gasp when her knees started to buckle beneath her.

Quin had been preparing himself for the moment her muddled senses came back to her and she realized the state of undress she was in. Hed also known that even when her brain became functional again, her body would still be weak as a kitten. But that didnt keep him from dropping his hold on her when she demanded it, if for no other reason than to prove to the mule headed woman that she was dependent on him at the moment. A bit of humility never hurt anyone and this ungrateful little wretch could sure use a lesson on that subject.

Ive got you, he said after letting her slid halfway down his body. He pulled her up hard against his chest, his lip quirking at the look of fury on her face.

Aiden glared up at him. You did that on purpose!

I believe you freed yourself, chri. I merely caught you before you fell. Where is the gratitude for coming to your rescue yet again?

Gratitude? Why youyouopportunist, she sputtered.

Opportunist, he repeated dryly. Please do enlighten me as to how you came that conclusion.

First you refuse to let me in until Im so far gone Im not even conscious when you take it upon yourself to deprive me of my clothes. Then you hop in the shower with me and take advantage of my weakened state to keep our bodies pressed so close together a breath of air couldnt pass between us. That was bad enough, her eyes narrowed into accusatory slits, but getting a cheap thrill by letting me slither down your body like a greased up pole dancer just proves what a despicable opportunist you are.

Thunder brewed behind Quins dark eyes. I would be very careful if I was you, he growled.

Or what? Her chin jutted up defiantly. Are you going to toss me back outside and let the alligators get me?

A sadistic smile twisted his lips. I hadnt thought of that, but if you dont tame that sharp-edged tongue of yours I just may take it into consideration.

Aiden drew in a sharp breath. You wouldnt she started, but the evil gleam in his eyes made her shiver with fear.

As tempting as it is, I didnt save your hide just to feed you to the gators. As for the other charges I stand accused of, it was necessary to get your body temperature up as quickly as possible and that meant stripping you out of the cold, muddy clothes you were in and getting you into a warm shower.

And that required you to get naked as well?

Quin shrugged. Why should I soak my own clothes? And just for the record, I kept my boxers on.

Aidens indignant demeanor slipped a notch. Oh, was all she said.

If youre finished with your tirade now, Ill get you dressed and tuck you into a nice warm bed.

An uninvited vision of his big muscular body joined with hers in the heat of passion flashed before her eyes. Aiden was sure shed left some brain matter back in the swamp because there was no way in hell she was attracted to a man as disagreeable as this one was.

Unfortunately, it was at that precise moment she became aware of just how firmly they were pressed together and that her traitorous body had become almost feverish at the thought of writhing beneath him. A slow blush began to work its way up her neck until it burned in her cheeks and it took every ounce of will power in her not to look away from his steady gaze.

Youuhhave a guest bedroom?

Quin arched a brow. Do I look like a man who entertains guests?

Aiden licked her lips nervously. A sofa then?

Yes, but its downstairs and I havent had the fire lit all day so youd catch your death of cold if you slept down there.

Ill take my chances, she managed to squeak out.

Listen lady, he let out a sigh of exasperation, I have one bed and one fireplace going right now. If I put you downstairs youll get sick and I am not about to play nursemaid any more than I already have.

You could

Like hell, he interjected before she could even suggest it. This is my house and my bed so you can stifle any notion you have about me spending the night on the sofa. Trust me, chri, he said with a caustic laugh, the only desire I have concerning you at this moment is to make you well enough to send you packing.

Really, she drawled, then perhaps you wouldnt mind removing your hands from my ass.

Quin hastily moved his hands up to the small of her back with a mumbled apology. Okay, so maybe he had been enjoying the feel of her soft derriere but only on a subconscious levelsort of. And so what if hed gotten a little aroused when her perfectly shaped breasts had beaded and raked against his skin; they were like damn cattle prods, sending a jolt of electricity straight to his groin. It was a natural reaction and didnt have anything at all to do with the woman. If anything, he found her exceedingly annoying, especially since he still had his suspicions she was a tabloid reporter.

Quin reached around her shut off the water. Keeping one arm wrapped firmly around her waist, he shoved open the shower door and grabbed a towel. He wasnt surprised she didnt bother to thank him when he draped it across her shoulders, but couldnt help feeling just a twinge of remorse at the way she avoided his gaze.

Shed obviously had a frightening experience trekking through the swamp at night so finding herself standing naked in the shower with a man she didnt know certainly wouldnt help salve her jittery nerves. Grudgingly, he gave her points for the show of bravado shed displayed so far.

She let out a small cry of protest when he scooped her up in his arms but thankfully kept her lips pressed tightly together once hed set her down on the edge of the countertop. After drying himself off and looping the towel around his waist, he retrieved another towel and briskly dried the womans arms and legs before soaking up the excess water in her long hair. She didnt say a word, regardless of the fact he was making quite a tangled mess of her natural curls, though she wasnt above showing her disapproval via a few indignant huffs.

Aiden choked back the scathing words that lingered on the tip of her tongue as he carried her to his room and deposited her on the side of the bed. At least he had the decency to turn his back after handing her a long sleeved flannel shirt, though she wasnt quite sure why he bothered since hed seen everything anyway. Apparently his sense of decorum was on a short tether because he had no problem at all with dropping both the towel and his boxers in the hamper beside his dresser before pulling on a dry pair.

Thank God he didnt turn around until after hed hiked them up over his hips. The sight of his sexy back side had caused quite reaction in places that had no right responding to him so she could only imagine how mortified shed have been if hed exposed the more intimate parts of his physique. Her fingers had been shaky enough as shed attempted to button up the flannel but they were doubly so now that he was slowly advancing on her.

Let me, he said with surprising gentleness.

Aiden let her arms fall to her sides as he reached for the shirt and finished securing the last two buttons. He helped her stand up so he could yank back the heavy comforter then waited until shed crawled in before flipping of the light and slipping beneath the covers himself. She wasnt sure what she expected and she sure as hell wasnt going to invite any intimacy, but without the warm water keeping the chill at bay shed started to shiver again.

Even with a good two foot gap between them in the king sized bed she could feel his body heat reaching out to her and for one insane moment she considered inching over and curling up by his side. Fortunately, the ogre spoke and burst the bubble of hope that hed suddenly become human.

Now that youre all warm and fuzzy, I want to know who you are and what the hell youre doing here.

Aiden stared up at the flickering shadows on the ceiling wondering how much of the truth she should reveal. Hed no doubt consider her a blithering idiot if she told him shed taken the boat out to escape from Mommy and Daddy and that shed compounded the act of foolishness by not telling anyone she was leaving and then fallen asleep with a storm brewing. Granted, she hadnt known there was a storm moving in but she should have realized it was a possibility since they were so common in the summertime.

Im waiting.

Theres no need to be so nasty, Aiden replied to his impatient demand.

Lady

Okay, okay. My name is Aiden. I was just going to take the boat out for a short troll but II must have veered off without realizing it. By the time I figured out I was lost it had started to rain and then it got dark and She squeezed her eyes shut as a violent shiver rippled through her body.

So you got lost and just happened to end up at my doorstep, he said skeptically.

I didnt just end up at your doorstep, Aiden snapped. After the battery went dead on the motor and I lost the lights I spotted the light from your house through the trees. The boat was filling up with water and I was afraid if I waited any longer to row to shore Id end up in the swamp with a dozen or so hungry alligators.

There had to be more of them on the banks. How did you get past them, fly?

Wow, the man has a sense of humor, Aiden said dryly. I imagine it did look like I was flying when I leapt from the boat. I distracted them by putting a flare inside an empty water bottle and torching it. I wasnt sure theyd even go for it because theyd already caught the scent of blood

You hurt your head before you got out of the boat? How the hell did you manage that?

She told him about the alligator startling her when it grabbed the oar and how shed fallen backwards and hit her head. He listened intently while she recounted her flight past the gators and the subsequent journey though the swamp. Shed been so numbed with cold before that the

head wound seemed secondary to everything else but now as she felt the back of her head, Aiden realized hed put some sort of bandage over it.

She turned an incredulous gaze on the man. You shaved my hair off?

Quins eyes met hers through the dim light afforded by the fire. Just a little. I had to, he defended himself. After I cleansed the blood off I realized you needed a few stitches so I shaved just enough off to keep the area sterile. Then I sewed you up and put a bandage over it. You cant even see it, not with all the hair youve got.

Im surprised you didnt break the stitches open when you attacked my head with the towel, she grumbled.

Im sorry if I was a little rough.

Thank you for stitching me up.

For a moment neither of them spoke and Aiden wasnt sure she liked the melty feeling that enveloped her when hed apologized. He had to be some sort of recluse because it was obvious he wasnt used to have people in his home and didnt welcome the intrusion on his privacy. Still, the way hed behaved so far was deplorable and that made her even more curious as to why he was hiding himself away in the middle of the bayou.

You never told me your name, she finally ventured.

You honestly expect me to believe you dont know who I am.

Good God, how on earth would I know who you are?

I just think its too much of a coincidence that you got lost and happened across the only house for miles around.

Are you a criminal? Is that why you didnt want me here and why youre so anxious to get rid of me? Because if thats the case, I can pretty much guarantee Id never be able to find this place again.

Im not a damn criminal, Quin scowled.

Ohwell, if youre not a famous criminal, why would I know who you are?

Propping himself on one elbow, Quin studied her face for signs of deception. The fact that shed been nothing but irritatingly straight forward from the moment hed opened his door to her made him believe he might have been wrong. She didnt really look like a tabloid reporter either; there was too much innocence in her eyes. His gaze moved to her hair and the firelight that was dancing off it, making it shimmer like a fiery halo. She really was quite beautiful when she wasnt shooting off her mouth.

Hawke, he said, dragging his thoughts back into safer territory. Quinten Hawke.

Hmmmm, she yawned, it sounds like the name of a criminal.

What kind of a name is Aiden for a girl? He shot back.

Her eyes grew sad. Its not reallya girls name. My parents were expecting another son. They were so disappointed I was a girl I guess neither one of them really cared what they named me.

So how did they decide on the name Aiden?

One of the nurses was Gaelic. She made some comment to my mother about the color of my hair. You see, Aiden means little fire in Gaelic, so when she said it would have been a fitting name if Id been a boy, my mother told her to go ahead and put it on my birth certificate.

Youre serious, Quin said.

I have no reason to lie, Mr. Hawke.

Quin, he corrected her. So does that mean youre an only child or did they finally have a son?

I have four brothers, all of them older than me.

I dont understand. If they already had four sons, why would they be disappointed with a daughter?

It was a question Aiden had asked herself a million times once she was old enough to recognize she wasnt placed on the same pedestal as her brothers. It was also a subject that caused a dull ache in her heart that she wasnt emotionally equipped to handle at the moment. She turned her head away from him and stared up at the ceiling again.

Im very tired, Mr. Hawke. Id like to go to sleep now, if you dont mind.

Quin, he said, flopping back onto his pillow. It makes me feel like an old man when you call me Mr. Hawke.

You are an old man, she murmured.

Quin glanced at her sharply but the biting remark he intended to hit her with died on his lips when he saw her teasing smile. How old are you, Aiden?

How old are you, Quin?

Thirty-two.

A year younger than James, she thought. I guess thats not so old. Ill be twenty-five in a month.

Still just a baby.

Good-night, Quin.

What? No snappy come back?

Aiden closed her eyes. Good-night, Quin.

He watched her for several minutes and when he was sure shed drifted off to sleep, Quin slipped out of bed. Pulling on a pair of jeans and warm flannel, he allowed himself one more sweeping glance at her before leaving the room and quietly closing the door behind him. He wanted to believe she was telling the truth about how shed wound up at his house but knew he wouldnt rest easy until he verified the story shed told him. After donning a pair of rubber boots and rain slicker, Quin grabbed his rifle and a flashlight and headed outside.

The rain had almost abated but it had been pouring pretty hard when Aiden showed up so he wasnt very confident about finding the path shed taken. Panning the flashlight across the muddy ground didnt reveal anything of use which wasnt too surprising; the storm would have obliterated any footsteps. Hed just about decided to make for the bank of the swamp and follow it for awhile to see if he could spot her boat when he caught a glimmer of color in the arc of his flashlight.

Quin couldnt help chuckling when he reached out and plucked a few long strands of auburn hair from a low lying branch. Maybe following her trail wouldnt be so difficult after all. As it turned out, the poor thing had slipped and fallen so many times shed left a slew of broken twigs and torn up patches of moss to lead him right to the boat. For the most part the gators had moved on though he spotted one slithering back into the water as he neared the bank.

Just as Aiden had told him, a mangled aluminum oar lay a few feet in front of the bow of the boat, and not too far from that was the burnt out flare inside a partially melted water bottle. The boat probably would have drifted away if it hadnt been weighted down by water that had almost reached the halfway mark, but the final proof of Aidens story lay in the crimson glow of the standing water. Shed been damn lucky the blow to her head hadnt knocked her out and even more fortunate that the alligators hadnt been able to figure out where the scent of blood was coming from.

Quin stepped inside the boat and waded to the stern to remove the battery. By morning it would be fully charged so shed be able to use her own boat to get back home, though hed probably have to lead her out of his neck of the swamp. Of course hed have to get the water out

of the boat, which could only be accomplished by pushing it back into the swamp before capsizing it.

He was strong, but not strong enough to overturn a hundred pound boat weighted down with water, at least not on dry land. Hed have to be quick though. Once the bloodied water inside the boat mingled with the swamp water, the gators would be over to investigate and he didnt relish the idea of being anywhere near when they did.

Quin wasnt afraid of the alligators, hed been living in the swampland long enough to know they didnt really consider humans as part of their regular diet. But he did have respect for them and proceeded into the water with wary caution. He pushed the boat out just far enough to make it buoyant then let his feet sink into the murky water so hed have some stability.

The boat was only three feet across so it wasnt difficult to get his arms beneath it and get it flipped over. It was tugging it back closer to the bank while it was still upside down then maneuvering back upright that put a serious strain on his muscles.

Once that was accomplished, he wasted no time in retrieving the flashlight and motor and high tailing it out of there before the gators sensed his presence. Hed kept the rifle slung over his shoulder just in case he ran into trouble but was glad he hadnt needed to use it. If hed been forced to kill a alligator to save his own life, Quin wouldnt have hesitated but hed never enjoyed hunting and saw no reason to destroy them unless it was absolutely necessary. Of course, Aiden might disagree with him on that point.

At the thought of Aidens curvaceous body snuggled between his sheets, Quin picked up his pace and double timed it back to the house. Hed only been gone about ninety minutes so the

chances were slim that shed woken up, but he was concerned about it nonetheless. Shed gone through enough tonight without the added distress of finding herself all alone in that rambling old house with its creaks and groans. Entering through the mud porch, Quin paused just long enough to put the battery on the charger before stripping down to his boxers and hurrying upstairs.

Aiden opened her eyes groggily when she felt him slip back into bed. Quin, did the fire go out?

No, its still going strong.

Then why am I so cold?

Quin turned on his side so they were facing each other then reached over and covered her hand with his. It wasnt as icy as it had been when hed first tucked her into bed but it was still cold enough to make him worry that her core temperature had begun to drop again. Her face was even more pale than before which made her seem fragile and lent an air of vulnerability to Aiden that touched something deep inside him. It made Quin want to wrap himself around her like a coat of armor and protect her from the world even if it was only for the hours they had left before he pushed her out of his life forever.

We couldget closer, he suggested.

Aiden gave him a sleepy smile when he slipped his arm beneath her head and gathered snugly to his body. His warmth seeped into her skin and gradually chased the chill away. With her cheek pressed to his corded chest she could hear the strong steady beat of his heart and it

comforted her in ways she couldnt even begin to understand. Locked in his arms, she felt safe from the rest of the world, though she sensed the danger in allowing him to touch her heart in anyway.

Where did you go? Aiden asked in an effort to steer her thoughts away from how incredible it felt to be lying next to him.

I had trouble falling to sleep, he fibbed, so I went for a little walk.

In the rain?

Its barely coming down now. Iuhfound your boat. I brought the motor back and put in on the charger so it would be ready for you in the morning.

Why was she so disappointed to hear that? After all, it wasnt as if hed made any pretense about the fact he wanted her out of his house as soon as possible. Still, she felt the sting of it and silently chastised herself for letting it bother her. He resented her intrusion and shed been nothing but trouble for him since shed stumbled onto his porch so why wouldnt he want to get rid of her? But to go out in the rain, in the dark so he could make sure the boat was ready to go first thing in the morning?

No, there was something more to this than Quin simply wanting the seclusion of his life back. He wanted her gone because he was hiding something and wanted to make damn sure she didnt stick around long enough to find out what it was.

You didnt believe me, she said when it finally dawned on her. When he didnt offer a denial, Aiden tilted her head back. Why did you think Id know who you were, Quin?

Its not important. Go to sleep, Aiden.

You thought I came here deliberately, to seek you out for some reason.

Aiden, he growled, but she ignored the warning in his voice.

Why would someone come looking for you and why didnt you want to be found?

I thought you were a reporter, he snapped.

A reporter? So you must be famous then.

Im nobody, he ground out. Drop it, Aiden. I told you, its not important.

If youre so famous, why havent I ever heard of you? Are you an actor? A hot shot politian? A tragic hero maybe?

Oh for Gods sake, he snarled.

With no way to shut her up, Quin did the only thing he could think of to still that pretty mouth of hers. Anger and desire melted into one as he crushed her soft lips with a brutal kiss. He expected her to protest, to jerk her head back or push him away, and was fully prepared for the verbal abuse shed unleash on him.

What he hadnt expected was Aidens immediate surrender or her passionate response to his savage kisses. She set his blood on fire, and for a few brief moments she made him forget everything except how good it would feel to bury himself inside her lush body. Mon Dieu, the things he wanted to do to her.

But he couldnt.

Quin had never considered himself a weak man, in mind or body, but it took a monumental effort to drag his mouth away from hers and an even greater effort to convince himself hed made the right decision. She had her whole life ahead of her and she didnt need to get involved with man who could offer her nothing emotionally. Whatever spark had ignited between them needed to be extinguished before it was too late.

Blue-green eyes peered into his; soft and dreamy and as alluring as a sirens call. How long would it take for those beautiful eyes to grow cold and distant once she learned what kind of a man he really was? His past would always come back to haunt him, and it would haunt her too if he let this go any further. He wouldnt allow another life to be destroyed because of him.

Its late, Quin said gruffly, youd better get some sleep.

A dull ache settled in Aidens chest when he rolled over and turned his back to her. Quin, I

I want you out of here first thing in the morning, he said coldly. And just so theres no misunderstanding, I dont want you to come back here again. Ever.

Chapter 5
How shed gotten to sleep after Quins harsh rejection was a mystery to Aiden, but she must have because the first rays of dawn had already begun to streak across the floor. Hed left her feeling cold and numb, but it didnt have anything to do with the withdrawal of his body warmth. For those few glorious minutes when hed been kissing her, Aiden had come alive. Shed felt a connection with him that shed never experienced with anyone else that went beyond physical attraction, though shed certainly felt that chemical reaction all the day down to her toes.

Even before she turned her head to look at him she knew Quin was still asleep because shed been listening to his slow, even breathing, half hoping that he would wake up. Her eyes moved over his face, admiring the strong line of his jaw and firm chin. Unlike Aidens tangled mass of curls, his thick black hair hardly looked mussed at all except for one errant lock that had fallen across his forehead. It made him look roguishly handsome and she was sorely tempted to reach out and brush it back but was afraid hed wake up and catch her in the act. And then her gaze wandered to his mouth.

A strange tingling sensation pulsed deep in her abdomen and though she recognized it as sexual desire she also recognized that it had never been this potent with anyone else. She wanted to toss back the covers and crawl on top of him, to feel his masculine strength as he thrust up inside of her. She wanted his hands on her skin and to experience once again the euphoric rush shed gotten when his mouth had crushed hers in a fierce, wildly exciting kiss.

Aiden squeezed her eyes shut, groaning inwardly. Shed definitely been without a man too long if she was considering attacking Quin in his sleep. It was highly unlikely that hed welcome her advances and shed end up nursing her wounded pride just as shed done last night. In spite of his surly disposition she couldnt deny she was attracted to him, but maybe it was because of the air of mystery that surrounded him.

Admittedly, her curiosity had been piqued when Quin confessed hed thought she was a reporter at first, and not just a reporter, she surmised, but a tabloid reporter. No one got as hostile as he did unless they thought someone was digging for dirt on them. Sensationalism was the foundation of magazines like that; they thrived on exposing peoples weaknesses, cutting them down with embarrassing pictures and fictional stories. They were vultures, all of them, picking at the wounds theyd inflicted until their prey was forced to go into hiding. Like Quinten Hawke.

Aiden had been sheltered from those horrid people only because of her fathers reputation for being fiercely protective of his family. Demetrio Lucisano wasnt a vindictive man but his enormous wealth and social status afforded him a great deal of protection against magazines whose livelihoods depended more on vivid imaginations and embellishments of the truth rather than the less exciting actual facts of a story. He was capable of destroying anyone foolish enough to cross him and made no secret of the fact hed do it without remorse if the Lucisano name was tarnished by their fowl lies.

Obviously Quin didnt have the advantage of money and influential friends, otherwise he wouldnt have secluded himself deep in the bayou just to avoid being hounded by the press. How lonely his life must be. It broke her heart to think of Quin spending his days just wandering

around this huge old house with nothing to do and no one to talk to. It was wrong, plain and simple, but maybe she could help him in some way.

Aiden contemplated the idea of freeing Quin from his lonely existence and what power, if any, she had to accomplish that goal. She could go to her father and ask for his help. Under normal circumstances she wouldnt even have considered it, and in all honestly, Demetrio would have turned her down flat unless there was some benefit in it for him. There was nothing to gain, of course, but her father always paid his debts and certainly he owed Quin something for saving his daughters life.

The more she thought about it, the more she excited she became about the prospect of giving something back to Quin for what hed done. True, hed been less than enthusiastic about her being there at all, but the fact remained hed rescued her from certain death and deserved repayment. In a way, Aiden would be rescuing him too. Surely that would earn a little gratitude and respect from the wretched man.

There was one small problem; she didnt have a clue why a tabloid paper would be interested in Quin, or what hed done to gain notoriety in their eyes. Before she could go to her father, shed have to unravel the mystery surrounding Quin and his self-imposed imprisonment in the swamp. She could get her friend Vivien to help out. As a freelance research attorney, Vivien would know just where to go for that type of information. It was a brilliant idea and Aiden was quite pleased with herself for having thought of it.

Slipping out of bed, she made her way silently to the bathroom and eased the door shut. After relieving herself and dabbing a bit of toothpaste on her finger to use as a make shift

toothbrush, she tip-toed back into the bedroom and searched for a pen and paper. If she was going to do this, she needed as much information about Quinten Hawke as she could get before she left. A writing desk in the corner provided her with the tools she needed and a few seconds of pilfering through his dresser produced a wallet.

After stealing a guilty glance over her shoulder to make sure he was still asleep, Aiden proceeded to copy down the information from his drivers license and social security card. Tucking the folded up piece of paper into the pocket of the shirt hed given her to wear, she slipped out of the room in search of her own clothes. She found her things hanging out on the mud porch, and though her dress was stained and torn in several places, at least it was dry. Quin must have rinsed it off along with her bra and panties, or maybe hed just stuck her in the shower fully clothed and removed them once the mud had been washed away. Regardless, they were dry so shed have something besides his shirt to wear on the boat ride back home.

Aiden shrugged off the shirt and quickly got dressed before pulling it back on. It would be cold this time of morning and she had no intention of turning herself back into a popsicle. Retracing her steps, she stole back into his room so she could jot down a quick thank you note. Shed been hurt by his rejection but in all fairness she did owe him a thank you since she hadnt offered him one at all up to this point.

Shed barely made it to the desk when Quin stirred in his sleep. Aiden froze, afraid that any movement would wake him but after waiting for a few breathless moments, she decided he was still sound asleep. Just to be safe, she took the paper and pen into the bathroom but couldnt seem to think of anything to say beyond a simple thank you. After all their head bashing and

verbal bantering, saying thank you suddenly feltinsincere and not at all indicative of their decidedly unique relationship.

Aiden stared at her image in the mirror and had to choke back a giggle. No wonder hed turned his back on her last night; she looked hell. Her skin was pale, making the spattering of freckles on her nose even more prominent than usual, and her hair looked like an explosion in a steel wool factory. Quins shirt hung on her like a gunny sack, obscuring her feminine curves and making her look completely shapeless.

So this was how hed remember her, she thought with a heavy sigh. She consoled herself with the knowledge theyd meet again one day soon if everything turned out as she planned, and that shed be able to restore a bit of pride by wearing something that wasnt covered in mud or ten times too big. Aidens eyes made a dismal sweep over the woman in the mirror then suddenly brightened. Picking up the pen, she wrote down three words on the paper then searched the drawers until she found what she was looking for.

She crept back into the bedroom and laid the note down on her pillow, placing a special gift alongside it before taking one last look at Quin. He was an extraordinarily handsome man, especially now when there was no dark scowl to mar his features. It was a shame his personality wasnt as attractive as his physical appearance but who could blame him for being bitter. Being forced into a life of seclusion was enough to make anyone resentful and she imagined a man like Quin would only have aggravated the situation when he lost his temper and tried to intimidate the reporters into leaving him alone.

Knowing shed already lingered too long, Aiden made a stealthy retreat then hurried downstairs to the mud porch. The sandals shed worn had been wiped clean but were just as worthless now as theyd been the night before. The only reason her feet werent riddled with scratches was because theyd been so caked with mud theyd been somewhat protected. The best she could hope for now was that theyd keep her soles from getting torn to shreds. After slipping them on, she retrieved the battery from the charger and left through the back door.

The sun was still low enough in the sky that it hadnt completely chased away the shadows of night but at least there was sufficient light to see where she was going. Her first inclination was to follow along the bank until she came across her boat but knowing that a croc could spring out of the water at her made Aiden more than a little hesitant to take that route. It was during those few minutes of indecision when her gaze was idly panning the wooded area in front of her that she discovered Quins footprints trailing across the open land and disappearing between two trees that hedged the woods.

He couldnt have made it easier for her to find the boat, and without the pouring rain and darkness of night to hinder her, Aiden made good time. Carrying the heavy motor had been a bit cumbersome and her arms were aching by the time she climbed into the boat but all in all she wasnt any worse for the wear. As she motored out to the middle of the swamp and headed in the opposite direction of Quins house, she started to worry that shed been too hasty in her decision to leave without asking how to find her way back to familiar territory. She might very well end up in an even worse predicament than shed been in last night if she went the wrong direction and wound up going deeper into the swamp.

To her immense relief, it wasnt fifteen minutes later that she merged into a bigger body of water and recognized some of the landmarks. Amazingly enough, she really hadnt strayed very far off the main waterway and probably wasnt more than twenty minutes away from the Lucisano Estates. Up until then, Aiden hadnt given much thought to the distress her family must be experiencing because of her unexplained disappearance. Considering her fathers vast wealth, theyd probably think shed been kidnapped for ransom and taken away by force and would be frantic with worry.

She was going to catch hell for what shed put them through and wasnt looking forward to seeing the disappointment in her fathers eyes while her mother lit into her. Facing her parents was bad enough but knowing her brothers would have been up all night scouring the countryside for her made Aiden dread the homecoming even more. They were going to be mad as hornets and wouldnt spare her the lecture on how thoughtless her actions had been.

Enzio would be the worst but maybe hed ease up on her a bit if she worked up some tears and acted deeply remorseful. Not that she didnt feel bad about making them worry, but it wasnt as if shed gotten lost on purpose and after everything shed gone through herself, Aiden wasnt up to the emotional scene that would play out when she returned. All she wanted to do was drag herself up to her bedroom and fall into bed, but the likelihood of that happening was less than none.

Even if her brothers let her off the hook, there was no way Giselle Lucisano was going to pass up the opportunity to glean sympathy from every male member in the family by acting as if she was the injured party. Aiden would stand accused of deliberately upsetting her, and the more

attention her mother got from the men, the deeper shed immerse herself into the role until they were all stumbling over themselves to make her happy again.

By the time Aiden docked the boat and climbed out, she was feeling sick to her stomach. She hated it that her mother constantly cast her as the villain and wished that just once she had the backbone to stand up for herself instead of taking the verbal abuse with tight-lipped silence. For a fraction of a second she actually considered trying to sneak in through the front door and escape to her room for awhile before confronting everyone but decided it would only make matters worse. Better to pay the piper now and get it over with.

Family conferences were always held in the dining room so they could have their coffee or tea while they discussed the issue at hand so Aiden figured thats where she was most likely to find them. She took her time going around the side of the house where double glass doors led directly into the dining room, each step more wooden than the last. Bracing herself for the verbal attack her mother was sure to let loose on her, Aiden opened the door and quietly slipped inside. For a moment she just stood there, dumbfounded by what she saw.

They were all gathered in the dining room all right, but there wasnt one anxious face among them. It was like any other morning; her father was reading the paper while her mother prodded her sons into telling her every minute detail about their plans for the day. Aiden was still reeling from the shocking realization that not one single member of her family had even known she was gone when her mother spotted her. Giselle let out a small gasp, her eyes widening in pure mortification.

Aiden, she said shrilly, what in Heavens name is that ghastly thing youre wearing? Youve been trampling around down by the water again, havent you?

I, uh

And look at your sandals!

Aidens cheeks blazed when all the men looked at her tattered, muddy sandals then turned their disapproving faces back to her. While Giselle continued to berate her for acting like a tomboy and tracking mud into the house, her father buried his frown behind the newspaper. And her brothers, the ones who usually tried to ward off her mothers disparaging lectures by coming up with something to distract Giselle with whenever she lit into Aidenthe traitors just sat there and let her take it!

Stand up straight, Giselle ordered when Aidens shoulders slumped in defeat. You realize you wont be able to behave like this once you marry James. The poor man would die of embarrassment. Now go outside and take those filthy shoes off then run upstairs and take a shower.

Yes, Mother, Aiden said demurely.

And another thing, Giselle continued when Aiden stepped back inside, just because Andre is doing your hair today doesnt mean you can show up looking as if you havent run a brush through it in a week. And get your nails done, she added as Aiden trudged past them.

After the harrowing night shed had, the last thing Aiden wanted to do was drive into town to get her hair and nails done but shed never hear the end of it if she dared miss a coveted

appointment with Andre Renoir. In her room, Aiden undressed mechanically, still numbed by the knowledge her family hadnt been aware of her absence or even suspected something was wrong when shed shown up looking so disheveled and wearing what was obviously a mans shirt. She felt hollow inside, as if someone had scooped out everything that had been capable of emotion and left her with nothing but this God awful empty ache.

Shed never felt so alone in her life.

***

Quins mind had barely breached the foggy gap between dreaming and being fully awake when he became painfully aware of the raging hard on he was sporting as well the reason for it. Aiden. It had been a long time since hed held a woman in his arms and as much as he hated to admit it, Aiden had affected him in ways no other woman ever had. Even his own wife had never turned him on so quickly and shed certainly never ignited a sexual desire that was so intense his whole body vibrated with it.

But Aiden had done that to him with just one passionate kiss. The instant his lips met hers, Quin had been consumed by a ravenous hunger that could only have been satiated by burying himself between those satiny thighs of hers. Hed wanted to possess her and had come dangerously close to losing what little self control he had. Thats why he had to get rid of her as quickly as possible.

Quin sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed. Hed have to wake her but it occurred to him that it would be a hell of a lot easier to resist the temptation to touch Aiden if he wasnt lying in bed right next to her. He threw the covers back, forcing himself not to turn

around and look at her as he rose to his feet and made a beeline for the bathroom. He didnt trust himself around Aiden and that shook him to the core because it proved the wall hed built around his heart wasnt as impenetrable as he thought it was.

Sex. Thats what this was really all about, Quin tried to convince himself. Aiden was a beautiful woman and hed been celibate far too long to be unaffected by the honeyed tasted of her mouth and skin that was so soft and smooth hedamn. He had to stop thinking about her, or at least stop remembering the way shed melted into him and how eagerly shed kissed him back. What he needed to focus on was that razor sharp tongue of hers and hang onto the initial anger hed felt when he first realized that obnoxious rapping wasnt a tree branch hitting the house but rather an unwelcome intrusion on his privacy.

A nice cold shower should have killed any ambitions his lower appendage might have had about becoming a heat seeking missile, and while he was standing under the frigid spray it had worked quite nicely. It was afterwards as he was drying himself off that his mind took a detour around the dont-go-there sign and provided him with a vivid memory of that searing kiss. The towel hed hitched around hips did little to hide the prominent bulge but if Aiden was still asleep he could put on his jeans and one of his button downs with shirt tails to cover it up.

If he was lucky, shed wake up in a piss poor mood and start running that insolent mouth of hers, except this time he wouldnt try to shut her up. Hed just let her acid tongue work up his temper instead of his hormones so that hed be more than happy to bid her good riddance. By the time he emerged from the bathroom, Quin was firmly convinced he couldnt get rid of her fast enough but when he spotted the empty bed he experienced an unexpected sense of loss. Then he realized she was probably nosing around downstairs.

His temper instantly flared. Muttering a string of expletives, he tromped downstairs to find her. He went from room to room, bellowing out her name and getting angrier by the minute. When he finally returned to the bedroom to dress so he could look for her outside, Quin noticed something lying on her pillow. He moved closer and for several minutes he just stared at the brief note and small token shed left him.

Aiden was here, the note said. Beside it was a long lock of her hair. Leaving it on her pillow had been deliberate; she wanted to make sure he remembered that for a few fleeting moments hed held her in his arms and shared something that was more powerful than either of them could have imagined. Quin reached out and picked up the lock of hair.

Aiden was here all right, he murmured.

He had the sinking feeling that shed always be here. Like it or not, Aiden had left her impression on his life and for the first time in over two years, Quin felt something besides an icy coldness where his heart used to be.

Chapter 6
Aiden stopped by Vivians house after shed gotten her hair and nails done. She was still suffering from the aftershock of discovering no one had even noticed shed gone missing. Her mother probably just assumed the reason she hadnt come down for dinner was because she was still brooding over their conversation in the sitting room. Obviously no one had been sent to get her, or maybe when they didnt get a response after knocking on her bedroom door they decided shed fallen asleep and hadnt given it second thought.

Even though shed dreaded confessing the truth about taking the boat out alone and where shed been all night, Aiden would have gladly withstood the lectures on being a responsible adult because once the dust had settled she would have been able to coerce her father into helping Quin. Now shed have to figure out some other way to get the job done. Part of her wanted to just forget the whole thing had happened, forget shed ever met Quinten Hawke, but in her heart she knew that was impossible.

Because of the kiss.

Even now the taste of him lingered on her lips and Aiden shivered in response. She had no choice but to help him, if only as an excuse to see him one more time. Vivian thought she was insane for even considering seeing Quin again, especially since hed made it abundantly clear he didnt want her to. It was doubly wrong, Vivian told her, because of the situation with James.

Would you still think it was wrong if I hadnt told you about James?

I most certainly would, Vivian said vehemently. Taking the boat out alone is dangerous enough but you know nothing at all about this man. Just because he told you he wasnt a criminal doesnt make it true, Aiden. At any rate, James is a good person and he doesnt deserve to have his fianc running off to meet another man behind his back.

I am not his fianc, Aiden shot back testily, then immediately felt sorry being so short. Im sorry, Viv, I dont know whats gotten into me. I know youre right about James, and Id never purposely do anything to hurt him but

Youre infatuated with this Quin, thats all, Vivian told her. He saved your life, so of course youre drawn to him but you said yourself he told you never to come back. Why take the chance of ruining things with James over a man who doesnt want anything to do with you?

I dont know, Aiden replied miserably. Its just something I feel I need to do. Who knows, maybe after you help me find out why hes hiding away from the rest of the world Ill change my mind.

I never said Id help, Vivian reminded her.

You didnt have to, Aiden grinned. Youre my best friend and youll do it because you love me.

No, Ill do it because I think it will prove to you that Quinten Hawke is just as dangerous as those alligators you managed to escape from. Youre making a big mistake by not jumping at the chance to marry James. If hed asked me to marry him Vivian stopped abruptly, her pretty face turning a bright scarlet.

Why Vivian Demarais, dont tell me you have a crush on James!

Of course not, Vivian denied, even as the color in her cheeks deepened. Its just that Ive done some work for him in the past and have come to respect him. Hes a very kind-hearted man and Id hate to see him hurt.

I have no intention of hurting James, and thats exactly what Id be doing if I rushed into marriage without making sure its what I really want. Sowhere do we start?

First you have to promise that you wont go out there if we discover he has a criminal record.

Im not stupid, Viv.

Okay, so she deliberately evaded making a promise but what was she supposed to do? And anyway, it worked because Vivian started outlining the steps theyd need to take in order to scrounge up information on Quin. Aiden was glad she hadnt told her friend about the kiss and how heated it had gotten because she was sure Vivian would have refused to help her then.

Ill take care of checking out his criminal record

If he has one, Aiden interjected.

Uh huh, and you can get on your computer and access archived newspaper articles. I suggest you go back five years and see if you can uncover anything. If not, go back ten years; anything further back than that will have to be requested directly from the newspapers themselves. Try the most widely circulated papers first then move on to the smaller ones. Since

he seemed so sure you were a tabloid reporter, you may want to search those too. You understand that if hes not even from around here, it could take weeks or even months before we find anything.

What about the information from his license and Social Security card, surely that will make it easier.

In some respects, yes, Vivian agreed, but with all the Privacy Acts in force these days theres a limit as to how much information we can obtain. I have to make a run down to the Courthouse this afternoon so Ill be able to check criminal and civil suits involving Mr. Hawke. Ill give you a call if I find anything.

Aiden checked her watch. Ive got to run. James is stopping by this evening after work and she let out a groan. I forgot Mother asked me to invite him to dinner.

Invite? Vivian arched a brow.

Youre right, it was a royal command. Shell have my head on a platter if I cant convince James to stay for dinner. Aiden grabbed her purse and headed for the door. Thanks for everything, Viv, I owe you big time.

As it turned out, James was in a conference and couldnt be disturbed so she had to leave a message. It was just past one so she had plenty of time to get in a few hours on the computer before she had to get dressed for dinner. Aiden was excited about playing investigator, though she was a little concerned she might actually find out Quin had committed a crime. Even if it

was true, she refused to believe he was dangerous. After all, shed been completely at his mercy so if hed wanted to rape or murder her, he could have done it at any time.

Aiden hurried up to her room, anxious to avoid her mother and the nasty remarks she was likely to get for having left her hair so long. There really hadnt been an option, not after shed clipped a good sized lock from the underside, leaving barely an inch of it sprouting from the backside of her neck. Andre had let out a dramatic gasp when hed seen it, and it was all she could do to keep from laughing out loud.

Shed made up a story about a fictional friends child planting gum in her hair and swore shed had no choice but to cut it off. Hed trimmed and layered it to take out some of the fullness, but hed been mumbling under his breath the entire time about people expecting him to work miracles. Andre had, of course, declared himself a genius after making the last snip and taking a straight iron to her hair. Well, shed deal with her mother later; right now she had work to do.

Aiden started with the LA Review, the largest newspaper in the area. She was surprised to find there were so many articles containing the last name Hawke, and so began the arduous task of sifting through them for mention of Quin. Camille Hawke came up several times in the articles from five years ago and she wondered if the woman was related to Quin.

The answer to that question was provided in a story about a major social event in which Camille had been escorted by her son, Quinten. Apparently it caused quite a stir because Camille rarely appeared in public without her husband, Trystan, and it was the first time that her

son had ever played escort. It could be nothing more than coincidence but Quinten was an unusual name so she felt certain she was on to something.

As she printed off the article, it occurred to her that if Camille was so high profile, her own mother probably knew her, or at least knew of Camille Hawke. It was possible Giselle could provide her with some answers if she didnt have any luck finding something in the newspapers. Asking questions might backfire on her though because shed never really cared for her mothers social events and spent most of her time chatting with Vivian or some of the other younger people whod been bullied into going. Shed have to save quizzing her mother as a last resort.

Aiden checked the time and was surprised to find shed been at it for over two hours. Since she wouldnt have to fiddle with her hair, all she really had to do was take a quick shower before dressing for dinner. Twenty minutes, she promised herself, and then shed pack it up until after James left. Searching the archives from four years ago produced two direct hits on Quintens name. Aiden pulled up the first article then sat back in her chair with a sinking heart. It was an engagement announcement for Quinten Xavier Hawke and Olivia Josette Mandeville.

So hed been engaged at one time. That didnt have to mean hed actually gotten married or that he was still married to this Olivia woman. And even if he was, she scolded herself, she had no right to feel this insanely jealous when the reality was that Quin had told her in no uncertain terms he had no desire to see her again. Maybe the engagement had been broken off and thats why he was so bitter. Except that would mean Olivia had run out on him, and somehow Aiden just couldnt picture any woman willingly leaving Quin.

Her fingers were a little shaky as she set them back on the keyboard and brought up the second article. She stared at the screen, the dull ache in her chest making it difficult to breathe. Quins handsome face was turned towards his new bride, who Aiden had to admit was everything she wasnt. Tall and thin, the golden haired beauty was flashing a brilliant smile for the cameraman. She was flawless in every way; perfect figure, perfect teeth, perfect for a man like Quinten Hawke.

Aiden printed both articles and shoved everything in her desk draw then shut the computer down. Was it wrong to hope theyd gotten a divorce after being married for such a short time? Something had obviously gone wrong with their marriage, otherwise Quin wouldnt be living alone in the middle of the bayou. And if that was so, didnt she have an even greater reason for making him see he had to bury the past and get on with his life? So there had been a bitter divorce, surely he wasnt still pining over the woman.

The image of Olivia Mandeville swam before her eyes. Of course he was despondent over losing her, what man wouldnt be?

Aiden pushed her chair back and headed for the bathroom to take a shower. She was obsessing about Quin, letting him prey on her mind because of one silly kiss that hadnt meant anything at all to him. Thats why hed cut her off so coldly. Hed been thinking of Olivia while he was kissing her and when he suddenly realized it wasnt his beloved wife in his arms, hed been revolted and turned away.

Maybe Vivian was right; she should forget about Quin and concentrate on developing a relationship with James. Yes, thats what she should do, Aiden decided as she stepped into the shower.

***

Quin paced restlessly back and forth across his front porch, silently cursing himself for not driving Aiden from his mind and attending to the business calls that had been stacking up all day. She was hard-headed, mouthy, annoyingly disagreeable, and she exasperated him beyond belief. So why was he still thinking about her? Why did his arms ache to hold her again? She was nothing like the women hed been with in the past, the complete opposite of Olivia in every way. Maybe that was why he was so attracted to her.

It made sense. His marriage to Olivia had been a disaster almost from the very beginning so it only stood to reason that hed subconsciously steer clear of women like his wife. Despite their differences and the disturbing knowledge that hed made a huge mistake in marrying her, Quin had fought like hell in the beginning to make it work. The one thing they did agree on was that divorce was not an option. His mother would never have forgiven him for embarrassing her with a messy divorce; she was too much of a public figure for it not to affect her in a negative way.

Ironically, Camilla despised Olivia right from the start and had done everything she could to dissuade Quin from marrying her. He wondered what she would have said if shed known hed been forced into it when Olivia announced she was pregnant and insisted the child was his.

Hed had his doubts but Camilla would have been mortified if Olivia had gone to the tabloid magazines and accused him of being the babys father and made it known he refused to marry her. It wouldnt have mattered to his mother that he was miserable being married to Olivia. As far as she was concerned, once they were pronounced man and wife he was expected to present a happy front in public at all costs and do his suffering in silence.

And Lord, had he suffered. A month into the marriage, Olivia claimed to have lost the baby. He was devastated. Even knowing the baby might not have been his hadnt eased the ache in his heart because hed been truly excited about the prospect of being a father. It wasnt until six months later that he discovered she hadnt been pregnant at all. Shed lied to him in order to get a wedding ring on her finger and shed admitted as much when he confronted her.

I spoke with your doctor today, hed told her that night as they were getting ready for bed.

Olivia was sitting in front of her vanity mirror brushing out her golden hair. Really, she replied indifferently. And why would you do that?

I wanted to know how soon we could try to have another baby.

You could have asked me instead of wasting my doctors time.

I didnt want to upset you by bringing up painful memories.

Something in his voice must have alerted her to the fact he was angry though hed been careful to keep his tone even. Olivias eyes met his in the mirror as she continued to brush out her hair. Several minutes ticked by before the cold hearted bitch turned around and actually had

the nerve to laugh. Thunder brewed in his eyes, but she was as dismissive of that as she was about tearing his heart out with a faked pregnancy.

Honestly, Quinten, youre as nave as a virgin sometimes. Surely you must have guessed by now that I married you for your money. As for the fictitious pregnancy, she shrugged, it was the only way I could get you down the aisle. I knew you were growing tired of me but Id seen the way your eyes lit up when there was a child around. I saw my opportunity and I took it.

She stood up and sauntered over to him. Even if I really had been pregnant, you dont seriously believe I would have ruined my figure by having a baby, do you?

You would have aborted it? Hed choked out.

Olivias lips twisted into a cruel smile. In a heartbeat, darling. I dont want children, Quin, now or ever. Im afraid youll just have to resign yourself to the fact youll never be a father.

Quins hands balled into fists. Hed never been more tempted to hit a woman in his life which was why he kept his arms locked to his sides. What little affection hed had for her dwindled and died at that moment, and in its place a burning hatred took hold. He threatened to divorce her but she only laughed at him again.

You wouldnt dare disappoint your dear, sweet Mommy like that and we both know it. Besides, it would mean the ruin of your family fortune and I know you wouldnt risk that. Oh yes, she sneered at the shocked look on his face, I know your father gave you his half of the

business when he found out he had cancer last year and believe me, Id take every cent of it and then some. How do you think your terminally ill father will feel knowing youd lost everything hed given you and that his wife would probably lose her half too under such a financial burden?

Youd do that? For Gods sake, Olivia, my father is dying! This would push him over the edge, and my mother

Your mother would despise you, she finished for him. She lives for her social status and the way her cronies look up to her. It makes me sick to see them hanging on every word and groveling at her feet when theyve done something to get her nose out of joint.

Quin clenched his fists even tighter. If you hate her so much, why did you conspire to become my wife?

I did it because I hated her. She looked down on me, made me feel like bug she wanted to squash but wouldnt for fear shed soil her designer shoes. I wasnt good enough for her son or maybe just not good enough to be related to the great Camilla Hawke. What greater revenge for the nasty way she treated me than to marry her only son?

You said you did it for the money.

The money only sweetened the pot. I knew you wouldnt deny me anything financially so I decided to live high off the hog until I had you all just where I wanted you. Spending your money has brought me a great deal of pleasure, but knowing I have the power to ruin your snooty mother is the greatest revenge of all.

Then why not just divorce me and get on with it? Youll be filthy rich with the money from my half of the business so theres no need to stay married.

Oh no, Olivia shook her head. I might have fallen for that when we first got married but not now. Youre a shrewd businessman, Quinten, and theres a very good chance you could salvage the company even after losing half its assets. No, I like my plan better.

And what is that," he ground out, his voice shaking with fury, forcing me to stay married to you no matter how miserable it makes me?

It hasnt been all that bad, has it darling? She smiled up at him from beneath her lashes. You have to admit our sex life certainly hasnt suffered, and as far as the rest of the world is concerned we have a perfect marriage. Havent I been a model wife? Have I ever embarrassed you in public or done anything to put a black mark on the Hawke name?

Quins eyes narrowed. Youre telling me that as long as I dont file for divorce, youll keep up the convincing front youve obviously managed to pull off right from the beginning.

Of course, she replied with a nonchalant air.

And you wont try to lord it over my parents?

Why should I? Its enough to know Ive got the knife to their backs, its not necessary to drive it in.

Quins expression hardened. The conniving little bitch had him over a barrel and there wasnt a damn thing he could do about it. How could he live with her knowing what she was,

what she was capable of doing to his family? The thought of touching her, sleeping in the same bed, pretending they were in love when they went out in public togetherit made his skin crawl.

All right, he finally said. But I have a few conditions of my own.

Youre hardly in a position to bargain with me, Olivia laughed.

Oh, I think I am. You dont want a divorce because your own name will be smeared in the process and because you know my attorneys could keep the proceedings dragging on for months. What would you do for money in the meantime, Olivia?

You wouldnt leave me penniless. Youre entirely too honorable for that, Quinten, so dont try to use scare tactics on me that we both know youd never employ.

Oh, but I would, he said venomously. Id pay you back for every second of pain you caused my mother and father and I wouldnt have an ounce of remorse for doing it. Ive never been a violent man, but I promise you there isnt anything Id enjoy more right now than curling my fingers around your neck and squeezing the life out of you.

Olivia took a step back, her nervous laughter assuring him she wasnt nearly as confident as shed been a moment ago. He knew that everything from his heated glare to the rigid stance of his body was intimidating her; it was obvious by the way her hand went to her throat then fluttered to her side as she weighed out her options. Olivia was a greedy, spiteful woman but she was also smart enough to know he was deadly serious. She tipped her head in reluctant acquiesce.

Tell me your conditions and Ill consider them.

First, you never breathe a word of this to anyone, especially not my parents. Second, there will be no extramarital affairs. I wont have you embarrassing me or shaming my family with something that sordid.

Olivia arched a brow. Are you finished?

Not yet. I want you to move your things into one of the spare bedrooms. The thought of sleeping with you makes me sick to my stomach.

You cant be serious, Olivia shrieked. You expect me to go without having affairs when you refuse to have sex with me?

Quins smile was glacial. I didnt say there would be no sex, I said I didnt want you sleeping in my bed.

What exactly does that mean, Quinten?

It means, my dear wife, that I will visit your room whenever I feel it is necessary to slake my sexual needs.

And Im just supposed to allow you to use me night after night as a release for your sexual frustration?

I think you over estimate your ability to entice me into your bed, Quin replied in an icy tone. When I come to you, and I imagine those times will be few and far between, it will only be because Ive reached a point where any female body will do.

Olivias faced burned with outrage. Youre a disgusting pig! Why would I even consider letting you use me like that?

Quin just smiled. Theres nothing to consider, Olivia. Take it or leave it, there will be no more discussion.

Shed taken it, just as he knew she would. And true to his word, Quins visits to her bedroom were few. She hated him for making it so cold and calculated, hated that he no longer kissed her or lingered over her body to make sure she was just as satisfied by their sexual encounters as he was. He even made her turn out the lights so he didnt have to look at her, and when it was over Quin practically jumped out of bed and returned to his own room. Only in public did he make an effort to appear as if they were blissfully happy.

In the end, that was his saving grace. The paparazzi that he so despised referred to them as the perfect couple. It couldnt have been farther from the truth, but for once the lies they printed worked for him instead of against him. It was all a brilliantly played faade and no one even suspected how wretched his life had become or just how much he and Olivia detested each other. As far as Quin was concerned, no one ever would know because that dirty little secret had been taken to the grave the night Olivias life came to an abrupt end.

***

You wont tell Mother I forgot to ask you to dinner, will you?

Is that the only reason you rushed out to meet me? James asked with a teasing smile.

Wellnot the only reason, she replied. I was hoping you could work it into the conversation at dinner that you planned on taking me for a drive afterwards.

Assist you in escaping from your parents? Im not sure if I should. After all, they are just as anxious to see us get married as I am.

Aiden would have taken him seriously if she hadnt noticed his mouth give the slightest little twitch. Thats okay, she said with a heavy sigh. I guess if youd rather be sitting around chatting with my parents instead of being alone with me

James slipped his arms around her waist and delivered a tender kiss. Nothing would make me happier than to be alone with you.

I am sorry you got roped into this dinner, she said earnestly. I honestly wanted the two of us to have some time alone to talk and get to know one another. But you know how Mother is. She insisted I ask you to dinner and would have been positively miserable to live with if Id refused.

James took her hand and started up the pathway to the house. I dont mind, not as long as I get you all to myself afterwards.

Nothing ever bothers you much, does it James?

I dont know. I had a maid once who insisted on starching my boxers. Now, that bothered me a great deal.

Aiden laughed at his dry sense of humor. Maybe shed misjudged him and James wasnt nearly as straight laced as he seemed. And if that was true, it was possible he wouldnt mind it so much that she wasnt the virginal bride he was hoping for. She didnt have to tell him about Giovanni because there was no way for him to ever find out shed slept with the letch. Surely he wouldnt hold it against her if he believed there had only been one man shed given herself to. It would only be a small lie, and it really served no purpose to hurt him with the truth, did it?

Aiden could have lived with one minor lie if James hadnt brought up how important honesty was in a relationship later that evening. Dinner with her parents had been surprisingly pleasant, partly due to the fact James parried the first few personal jabs Giselle had taken at her which seemed to have deterred any further barbs. The other reason was that James had the innate ability to be at ease with anyone regardless of the direction the conversation took. She liked that about him, especially since she never knew what to say to her parents that wouldnt come out all wrong or be deliberately misconstrued.

Hed driven up to a lookout point which had a spectacular view of the ocean and parked his car. At his request, Aiden had scooted across the seat and tucked herself close by his side. After a few minutes, hed draped his arm across her shoulders and started to talk. Maybe hed sensed how nervous she was because he never even tried to kiss her until it was almost time to go.

I dont want you to feel as if Im going to place a lot of unreasonable expectations on you, Aiden. I realize youre much younger than I am and havent had any experience in a relationship, but as long as were honest with each other there isnt anything we cant overcome.

Is that the most important thing to you in a relationship?

Honesty, trust, respectlove, all of those things are important. Without them, I dont see how any relationship can survive.

Butwe dont love each other, she pointed out.

Not yet, he said softly, but in time

He kissed her then, and it was the sweetest thing shed ever known to be held so gently and treated as if she was the most precious woman on earth. His fingers stroked the side of her neck with reverence then twined themselves in her hair as he pulled her more firmly against him and deepened the kiss.

In her heart, she knew James would never let her down. Hed spend his entire life trying to make her happy, and hed always put her first and make sure she never wanted for anything. For all of that, Aiden could have cried. Because no matter what he said or did, he could never be the man she wanted him to be.

He wasnt Quin, and until Aiden proved to herself that she and Quin werent meant to be together, she couldnt even consider marrying James.

Chapter 7
He had to see her. Right or wrong, Quin was driving himself to distraction just thinking about Aiden. He didnt even know for sure that shed made it back home, wherever that was, and that was the excuse he gave himself for seeking her out. He had no idea what her last name was, but how many Aidens could there possibly be in the area? She said shed taken the boat out and gotten lost, which meant she couldnt live too far away so maybe hed take a run out to a few of the towns along the bayou and ask around a little bit.

After taking a quick shower, and laughing at himself for actually feeling nervous about seeing her, Quin pulled on a pair of jeans and black cotton shirt. If he did manage to track her down he wanted to look casual, as if he just happened to be in the area and wanted to make sure shed made it back okay.

It wouldnt do to let her know his heart raced at twice its normal speed or that his stomach twisted into knots every time he thought of catching her up in his arms and kissing her until she was breathless from it. He wanted her. In his arms, in his bed, lying beneath him in a tangle of sheets, and he wouldnt rest until he had her.

Eventually hed have to tell her about Olivia and how shed died. Maybe if he explained the circumstances shed understand his reasons for shying away from the rest of the world and wouldnt condemn him as everyone else had. He didnt relish the idea of opening up old wounds and exposing himself for what he really was, but if she found out from someone else shed probably never give him the chance to tell his side of the story. It wouldnt matter that the

charges had been dropped, not if she didnt know the truth about Olivia and all the horrible things his wife had done prior to her death.

But all of that would come later; after he found her, and after he convinced Aiden to spend some time with him. As much as Quin wanted to take her directly to his bed, he didnt think that was likely to happen. Hell, he wasnt altogether sure shed want anything to do with him after the way hed treated her. If he wasnt so convinced that shed been just as overwhelmed by the kiss theyd shared, he probably wouldnt be heading into town now. Probably. Oh, who was he kidding? Hed held out as long as he could and there wasnt any use in denying it.

His mother would be furious if she knew he was taking the chance of being seen but after two years of being out of the public eye, who would recognize him? Still, hed have to be careful. It would only take one small blurb, one reporter speculating as to why hed resurfaced and where hed been all this time for the whole nightmare to start over again. So why was he doing it? Quin steered the boat out onto the main waterway, hesitated for a moment, then veered off to the left.

Why was he doing it, besides the obvious reason of finding Aiden? Because he was tired of being alone, tired of having only himself and a few faceless voices on the telephone to talk to. And because he resented the fact that Olivia had taken away his life as surely as hed taken away hers. Being married to her had been hell enough, why should he continue to suffer because of a few bad decisions on a night that seemed a lifetime away?

Aiden was his one shot at happiness. He knew it, felt it deep down inside where all his emotions had been locked away until shed wandered into his life and awakened something in him that he thought had died long ago. She had the power to lead him out of the darkness, to give him a fresh start, to make him feel whole again. Hed been without hope for so long, Quin hadnt even recognized it for what it was until hed made the decision to go after Aiden.

And if she turned him away? His chest tightened. Quin pushed the thought away and pressed the engine to its full potential. He wouldnt think of anything right now except finding her.

***

She had to see him. Right or wrong, Aiden was driving herself to distraction just thinking of Quin. Vivian had called her at the boutique and said shed found something, some disturbing news she thought Aiden should know about right away. But shed made up an excuse about not feeling well and declined Vivians invitation to meet her for lunch. Even worse, shed outright lied to her best friend.

She was supposed to accompany James to the opening of a new play in town but just didnt think it was fair to spend the evening with him when she knew her mind would be elsewhere. So shed lied to Vivian and said she had the stomach flu and was going to close down the shop and go home. She begged Viv to take her place with James so he wouldnt have to miss the play and after extracting a reluctant promise to do it, Aiden had called James.

Shed played the stomach flu card on him too then told him Vivian was just dying to go to the opening but was so shy she hardly ever dated and didnt have anyone to go with. It wasnt

a complete lie; Vivian was painfully shy and never went out on dates, but she hadnt even known about the play until Aiden begged her to go in her place. So much for the honesty part of her relationship with James, she thought despondently after hed agreed to take Viv to the play.

She locked up the boutique and hurried to her car, anxious to get back to her parents house so she could pilfer the Swamp Ghost again and pay Quin a little visit. Shed bring his shirt back as a pretext for being there and could only hope he didnt snatch it out of her hands and slam the door in her face. Of course, she was just as worried that hed invite her in. What would she say to him; take me, Im yours?

She must be out of her mind for doing this. There were so many reasons why she should stay away from him. No doubt, Vivian would supply her with even more reasons but she didnt want to know what Vivian had discovered, not until after shed seen Quin. She couldnt explain why she felt so strongly about seeing him first; she only knew the decision was the right one.

Aiden pulled her car into the last port in the garage. Her father wouldnt be home for hours and her mother had gone into town to get her hair done and spend some time at the Country Club so it wasnt likely shed be home anytime soon either. Regardless, neither of them would notice her car parked way down at the end. Even if they did, theyd probably just assume James had already come to pick her up.

She really wasnt very good at lying, Aiden told herself as she sneaked through the house like a thief and retrieved Quins shirt from her bedroom before sneaking back out and heading down to the docks. If she was, shed have thought to bring a change of clothes so her parents

wouldnt question why she was dressed in pair of jeans when she returned to the house later. Better stick to her story that she had the stomach flu in case they talked to James.

If they caught her slipping back into the house, she could shrug it off by claiming shed needed some fresh air and gone for a walk. With any luck, shed be able to avoid them altogether and wouldnt have to explain a thing. At this point she simply didnt care, her need to see Quin was too strong to consider the consequences of her actions.

It was after one oclock when she started out. At least this time shed used her head and brought along her cell phone in case she couldnt find her way to Quins and got lost. Just who she was going to call, Aiden didnt know but shed cross that bridge when she came to it. Shed also taken the time to pull an extra battery from the shed by the docks where the fully charged spares were kept. So far shed managed to keep from running into the dozen or so people her father employed to take care of the house and grounds but she was pushing her luck in a major way.

How disastrous would it be for someone to tell her parents theyd seen her sneaking off in one of the boats? Aiden shuddered at the lecture shed get for that one. Her mother would be livid; not just because shed taken the boat out but because Giselle had to hear it from the hired help. It was only then that it dawned on Aiden her mother was going to see Andre today.

Hed been appalled to discover the clipped off lock of hair but had really pitched a lulu over the small bald patch where Quin had shaved her head. Shed been as nonchalant as she could and told another fib about having fallen at work and hitting her head on the corner of a

desk. Shed asked him not to tell her mother because she didnt want her to worry when it was really a minor injury, but what if said something anyway?

It was one thing to lie to Andre but quite another to stand in front of her mother and rattle off a whopper without looking guilty as sin. For someone who prided herself in being honest, Aiden had certainly taken to telling an awful lot of lies and half-truths these past few days.

Recognizing the landmark shed seen when shed emerged into the main waterway after leaving Quins place the day before, Aiden steered the boat into the narrow passageway. It was amazing how different everything looked in the light of day. Even the sight of a few crocodiles basking in the warm sun didnt bother her, but then she didnt think anything would bother her right now, not when she was only minutes away from seeing Quin.

Once shed passed the spot where shed rowed to shore, Aiden kept her eyes peeled for a dock. She hadnt noticed one when shed left Quins house in search of her boat, but then she hadnt really been looking or gotten close enough to the bank to see it. As she rounded a bend, she spotted the house but the dock wasnt in front as shed expected it to be. Aiden got a bit concerned when she was forced to take a wide berth that led away from the house but a few minutes later there was a hairpin turn that brought her around to the backside.

She was a little despondent to see there were no other boats moored to the dock because that could only mean Quin wasnt there. Where would he have gone? Into one of the towns along the bayou for supplies or was he simply taking a troll through the swamp to help pass the time? Either way, he could be gone for hours. Well, there was nothing to do but wait. She wasnt thrilled by the prospect of sitting on his porch for several hours while the day grew hotter

and more humid, but she couldnt bear the thought of leaving when there was just as much chance hed be back any minute.

As Aiden climbed the stairs to the back porch, she was pleasantly surprised to find a porch swing as well as a lounge chair. She wondered if Quin sat out here often and what he thought about while his life slowly passed him by. It was just too heartbreaking to think of him being out here all alone. Was it because of Olivia that he lived in this self-imposed prison? He must have loved her very much if he was still mourning the death of his marriage, and if that was true then he wasnt going to be very happy to find her here. Aiden gnawed at her bottom lip. Should she leave, or stay?

***

Quin stood in front of the small building with a large sign above the door that proclaimed the name of the business. Aidens Antiques. It couldnt be coincidence. He was somewhat surprised to learn she ran her own business, not because she didnt seem smart enough to do it but because of the nature of the business itself. A smaller sign in the window stated she not only bought and sold antiques but also restored them. It just seemed tootame for a woman who had such fiery personality.

Quin checked the hours, a worried frown forming when he saw it was well past the time it should have reopened after the lunch hour. He peered into the windows but it was obvious no one was there. A cold fear wound itself around his heart and squeezed. Had she simply closed down for the day to attend an auction or run errands, or had something happened to her on the boat ride back to her house? Hed never forgive himself if shed gotten hurtor worse.

His eyes migrated back to the window sign and the business number embossed on it. Pulling out his cell phone, Quin dialed the number and waited for the answering machine pick up. An enormous rush of relief barreled through him when he heard her recorded voice apologize for the inconvenience of closing early and promise shed be open during regular hours the following day. At least he knew she was alright, but it still left him disheartened because it meant he wouldnt be able to see her today.

Quin shoved his hands in his pockets and headed back to the dock where hed left his boat. Hed been walking for hours, stopping at grocery stores, small diners, even a few dress shops in the hopes theyd miraculously cross paths. Hed nosed about a little too, casually asking clerks and waitress and store checkers if they knew a woman named Aiden. Thats how he heard of her boutique.

Aiden Lucisano? One of the dress shop employees had asked after overhearing him ask another sales clerk about Aiden.

Yes, yesdo you know her? It must have been pretty obvious he was eager to find Aiden because the young woman smiled knowingly.

She shops here sometimes. Are you afriend of hers?

Quin didnt miss a beat. Actually, she went to college with my little sister and I promised to look her up when I passed through. He gave the woman a sheepish grin. My sister is going to kill me for losing Aidens number because I have no other way to reach her.

WellI dont have her number, but I have something that might be just as good.

Id be forever in your debt if you could help me out, he said with a flirtatious husk to his voice.

The clerk was positively flustered by his intense gaze, as hed known she would be. It had been quite some time since Quin had even talked to a woman, but there had been a time when all he had to do was look at a woman in a certain way to have her stumbling all over herself to hold his attention. He probably should have felt guilty because he certainly had no interest in her, but hed have said or done just about anything to get her to divulge what she knew.

She owns an antique shop not too far from here called Aidens Antiques. Just go three blocks down and one block west, you cant miss it.

She was right, he couldnt miss it; for all the good it had done him. Why today, of all days, did Aiden have to close early? He was bitterly disappointed that hed have to wait until tomorrow to see her and had worked himself up into a fine temper by the time he climbed back in his boat and headed for home. It was his own fault for getting his hopes up.

Once the clerk had told him where to find Aidens shop hed allowed himself to wallow in the light hearted feeling that had engulfed him. When had he ever been so anxious to be with a woman he could barely catch his breath? Hed even tried to con himself into believing he was winded was because hed been walking too fast but that didnt explain the spring in his step or the tremble of excitement as he envisioned her reaction to seeing him again.

As he headed in the direction the clerk pointed him in, hed pictured those beautiful eyes widening in surprise when he walked through the door and the slow smile that would spread

across her perfect lips. Shed whisper his name on a sigh when he closed the distance between them and took her in his arms. For a moment, hed content himself with studying every delicate feature of her face before lowering his mouth to hers. Hed just been getting to the part in his daydream where she left him to lock the door and draw the shades before taking his hand and leading him the antique bed when hed found himself standing in front of the boutique.

Maybe it was a good thing she hadn't been there, he thought as his boat neared the narrow passageway leading to his house. Hed been hard as a rock when hed arrived at Aidens Antiques. Oh, yes, her eyes would have widened with surprise all right because there was no way in hell she could have missed that. He nixed the part in his daydream where he just gazed at her for a few minutes too; with her lips that close to his it wasnt likely he could have held back the temptation to plunder her mouth.

As for the antique bedunless theyd been standing right next to it, there was no doubt in his mind they wouldnt have made it that far. Hed have lowered her to the floor and taken her right there, then maybe afterwards he would have had enough will power to wait until he carried her to the bed to make love to her again.

Now, of course, hed have to suffer through another long night with this agonizing need to be with her burning him alive, torturing his mind and his body until hed finally give up trying to sleep and go to his study to do some paperwork. It had helped to concentrate on something besides Aiden last night and after a few hours of plowing through contracts and proposals, hed climbed into bed and fallen into an exhausted sleep.

Quin slowed down to make the hairpin turn then sped up again. Hed been so immersed in thoughts of Aiden that he didnt see the small boat moored to his dock until he was practically on it. His heart slammed into his ribs. Was it Aidens boat? He wasnt sure, so many people on the bayou owned that same type of watercraft, but who else could it possibly be?

He hopped out of his boat and quickly tied it off then practically raced up the incline, slowing his step only after hed caught sight of her on the porch. She was just standing there, worrying at her lip and looking very uncertain. She turned as if to leave, a startled little cry whispering from between her parted lips when she saw him.

It was just like Quins daydream. Her eyes widened, his name was spoken on a breathless sigh as he strode across the porch to tower over her. It was too much; the pupils that dilated as she lifted her eyes to his, the slight flaring of her nostrils, the throbbing heartbeat he could see hammering out an erratic tempo at the base of her graceful neck. Quin dragged her into his arms, his mouth coming down hard and hungry as the endless hours of pent up frustration was finally unleashed.

Aiden was helpless against the onslaught of his bone melting kisses, not that she had any intension of resisting him. This was what shed longed for, what shed gotten a small taste of before hed turned away from her. Shed never experienced such raw desire, such breathless anticipation for what was to come.

Everything inside her awakened as he devoured her with his mouth while his hands slowly migrated south to cup her bottom. A wanton moan vibrated in the back of her throat

when Quin pulled her more firmly against him; firm being the operative word because she felt every throbbing inch of him.

It was like setting a match to a keg of gunpowder, there was an explosion of sexual sensation that emanated from deep in her abdomen and surged outward, thundering through her body with all the grace of a tidal wave, leaving her shaken and thoroughly embarrassed. Aiden couldnt believe shed actually climaxed already and all hed done was kiss her!

When Quin pulled his head back, she started to apologize because for her at least, the party was over. She was afraid to look at him, afraid to see the disappointment lining his handsome face but when she opened her eyes he was grinning like a Cheshire cat.

Mon Dieu, you nearly made me lose it myself, chri. He slipped his hand between her thighs and was quite pleased with himself when she gasped at her bodys response. Youre so hot, so wet Quins eyes darkened when she let out a soft moan. I want you, Aiden, he whispered. I want to be inside of you the next time you explode, and I want

I want you to, she rasped out, but I cantI mean Ive already she shook her head, shame washing over her in waves.

You think that is all you have to give me?

The look of utter despair she gave him tugged at his heart, though it didnt deter him in the least. Obviously Aiden had never been with a man whod considered her pleasure more important than his own or shed know this was only the beginning. Quin lowered his head and

captured her mouth once more, but this time his kiss was as slow and seductive as the hand that glided up her side and gently cupped her breast.

He raked his thumb over the peak, groaning inwardly when it instantly beaded, growing more taut with each passing sweep. Aiden was so sensitive to his touch there wasnt any doubt in his mind he could bring her to that same euphoric state again and again and again.

Aiden was drowning in a sea of sensuality. After what just happened, the last thing she expected was to feel that familiar heaviness coiling deep in her abdomen, but she did. It hadnt taken Quin two minutes to get her so hot she felt as if she was going to burst into flames, and judging by the heat that was radiating off of his body, she was doing the same to him. She pressed herself closer, savoring the taste of his lips and shivering with anticipation when Quin reached behind her and pushed the door open then slowly inched her back through the doorway.

Aidens heart jack hammered when he kicked the door shut then swept her up in his arms and strode purposefully toward the stairs. It took her breath away just to look at him and that frightened her a little, because somewhere deep down inside she knew that making love to him would only strengthen the hold he had over her. And yet, she didnt have the will to fight it. Even knowing that surrendering herself to Quin meant she was giving him the power to destroy her, Aiden couldnt have refused him.

Quin carried her to the bed and gently lowered her onto the mattress, pausing just long enough to remove both her shoes and his before maneuvering himself over her. Hed never wanted any woman the way he wanted Aiden but he wanted their first time to be special. Just how he intended to keep from climaxing the moment he entered her was beyond him, but

somehow hed find the strength to hold back. He pressed a soft kiss to her lips then lifted his head to look at her.

So beautiful, he whispered. The sexy smile she gave him as enough to make him groan out loud. Are you sure about this, Aiden? Because if theres any doubt

Im sure, she said as she curled her arms around his neck. Are you? Sure, I mean.

Quin laughed softly. I believe the fact that I carried you up to my bed answers your question, mon chri.

Aidens breath caught in her throat when his hand slipped beneath her blouse. Quin was all she managed to say before the hunger in his eyes silenced her.

He kissed her then, his lips brushing lightly against hers for a few agonizing minutes before he stopped torturing them both and kissed her properly. Aiden closed her eyes and was once again swept away by the passion he ignited in her. The world and everything in it spun away. There was only this man and this moment and a greater sense of happiness than she'd ever known.

Chapter 8
Fully clothed, Quin was breathtaking but nudedear God, he was simply magnificent. He took his time undressing her, undoing one button then leaning down to kiss each new section of exposed flesh before moving onto the next button. When he finally got to the last one, he peeled her blouse open and feasted his eyes upon her engorged breasts as they strained against the lacy bra. Aiden shivered as he trailed his finger across her bare skin to the clasp in the middle and with one practiced flick, the clasp sprung open.

Quin pushed the bra aside and groaned when the muscles in his abdomen clenched, making the ache to possess her even stronger. Aiden drew in a sharp breath and squirmed beneath him when he lowered his head and took first one rose tipped peak in his mouth and then the other. While is mouth was busy lavishing attention on her breasts, his hand glided down the quivering softness of her belly and delved between her thighs. She went still for a moment as his fingers sought out her moist heat but she didnt remain immobile for long.

Quin watched her face as he stroked her intimately, his own excitement mounting as he brought her closer and closer to the edge. Her hips rose and fell, occasionally jerking away from him when he hit a particularly sensitive spot, but he was careful not to let her escape altogether. Aidens entire body was quivering under the strain by the time he lowered himself over her and gently kneed her legs apart.

Quin held back for a moment, captivated by her exquisite beauty and the storm of emotions that thundered through him when his eyes locked with hers. Had any woman ever looked at him like that before, as if she lived and breathed solely for him?

A harsh moan tore from his throat as he inched his way past her tight opening and sank into her welcoming warmth. His body shuddered as he withdrew and plunged into her again and again, her soft, muted cries stripping him of what little control hed been holding onto. Any hope he had of making it last was shattered with each heavy thrust, but at least Aiden was soaring just as high as he was. She was thrashing wildly beneath him, her hips rising and falling in a desperate attempt to match his furious pace. Quin had never been so turned on his life.

Aiden was riding the crest of an enormous wave and the power of it was as frightening as the maelstrom of emotions that were twisting and turning her insides into mush. She couldnt think, couldnt breathe, all she could do was cling to Quins broad shoulders as he carried her higher and higher.

He was incredibly hard, and shed actually felt a moment of panic when he stripped off his clothes and shed seen how well endowed he was. She wasnt even sure shed be able to take all of him inside her but to her amazement, and immense pleasure, Quin filled her so completely shed nearly climaxed the moment hed penetrated her.

Her inner muscles stretched to accommodate his size, clenching around him so tight she felt every throbbing inch of him as each successive thrust drove him in deeper and deeper. It was beyond anything shed ever experienced before, beyond anything she could even have imagined. The sexual pleasure he aroused in her started as a low, humming vibration that made her tingle all over and gradually escalated to a sizzling hot volcanic rumble that threatened to erupt each time he withdrew then impaled her again.

Quin was as close to the brink as she was; Aiden could feel it in the way his powerful body trembled from the strain of holding back. She curled her legs around his waist then let out a wild gasp when he sank even deeper, touching her in places no man had ever known before.

She didnt think anything on Gods green earth could rival the euphoric sensations that rippled through her at that moment, but that was before Quin leaned down to kiss her. His fingers twined with hers as he held her arms above her head and slowed the pace of his grinding hips to match the leisurely consummation of her mouth.

Liquid heat pooled in her abdomen then surged forward with such force it threw her body into a series of uncontrollable spasms. Quin muttered an oath and followed her over the edge in the same convulsive manner, his deep guttural moans drowning out her softer ones. Afterwards, Aiden lay beneath him in a blissful state ofofwell, she couldnt put a name to it but it was blissful all the same. To say she felt lethargic was the understatement of the year; boneless perhaps or maybe even semi-comatose would be a more apt description.

Quin pressed his lips to her neck before dragging himself off of Aiden and rolling onto his back. There were no words to describe what he was feeling right now, no words to describe what hed felt from the moment hed seen her standing on his porch. He stretched his arm out and pulled her snug against his side, a satisfied smile curving his lips when she settled her head on his shoulder with a sigh.

So, she finally said, is it safe to assume youre not mad at me for showing up uninvited again?

Quins booming laughter filled the room. Do you always say the first thing that pops in your head, mon chri?

Aiden tipped her head back. I suppose you were hoping to hear something along the lines of how amazing it was? Or were you expecting me to declare what an incredible lover you are and confess how youve ruined me for all other men because no one could possibly compare to the remarkable Quinten Hawke.

He laughed again as he rolled Aiden onto her back and pinned her beneath him. Someone needs to tame that pretty mouth of yours, amourex.

Aidens eyes widened when he nudged her legs apart. But we just

The air hissed from her lungs when Quin buried himself inside her once more. How she could still ache for him after the way hed made love to her only moments ago was beyond Aidens comprehension, but thats exactly how she felt as she surrendered herself to the scorching heat building inside of her.

Much later, she repeated what shed said to Quin before about being an incredible lover and ruining her for all other men. Except this time, there was no biting sarcasm in her voice because she meant every word.

***

Quin tenderly brushed the damp curls from her forehead before stealing one more kiss. How do you feel, chri?

Ravaged, Aiden replied.

He propped himself up on one elbow, not the least bit contrite for having his wicked way with her that second timeor the third for that matter. His eyes raked over her deliciously naked body, from the perfection of her full, round breasts to the gentle curve of her hips, down to the best damn set of legs hed ever seen on a woman. She was simply beautiful, every inch of her. God help him, but he wanted to make love to her again.

Dont even think about it, Aiden squirmed beneath his heated gaze.

He ran his hand slowly up her thigh. You mean you dont want to be ravaged again?

No, she slapped his hand away. I wont be able to walk straight for days as it is.

Quin arched a brow. What makes you think Ill let you out of my bed long enough to find out?

Aiden let out a regretful sigh. As tempting as that is, I do have a business to run. Im afraid I neglected my customers today by closing up early so I could see you.

Why did you come here? After the deplorable way I treated you, Im surprised you didnt wipe me from your mind for good.

I came to return your shirt, of course, she said with a coy smile.

Really, he drawled, and just how long did you wait on my porch so you could return my shirt?

Not long.

How long? Thirty minutes, an hour or two?

Aiden giggled. All right, so maybe I didnt come here just to give you back your shirt. I just She drew in a deep breath, her expression sobering. I just had to see you, Quin. I dont know why it seemed soso

Urgent? Quin supplied.

Yes, butmore.

I know, he said softly. I felt the same way. Nothing was more important than being with you. It was like I was slowly being strangled and the only way Id ever be able to breathe right was when I had you in my arms again.

Thats it exactly. I was so afraid youd turn me away.

Never, chri. I couldnt stop thinking about you and I was driving myself crazy prowling around the house, worrying about whether you made it home okay or if Id ever see you again.

Aidens heart fluttered. You mean you tried to find me?

Quin chuckled. I did find you, or at least I would have if you hadnt closed up early today.

You were thereat my shop?

Aidens Antiques. I called the number on your sign and was pretty disappointed to find out youd closed for the day.

Aiden reached out and ran her hand over his corded chest. And just what were you planning on doing when you found me, Mr. Hawke?

His eyes darkened. Exactly what I did when I found you waiting here for me; take you in my arms and kiss you senseless then cart you off to bed.

A smile tugged at the corner of her mouth. And if Id refused to let you take me to bed?

You wouldnt have, he said with a cocky grin.

Youre very sure of yourself.

Perhaps you havent noticed, chri, but you are lying naked in my bed right now.

Hmmmm, you do have a point there.

Quin took the hand that was stroking his chest and pressed a kiss to her palm. Im glad youre here.

Glad enough to offer me dinner?

And breakfast, he said huskily.

Aidens face fell. Quin, Im sorry butI cant spend the night with you.

If youre worried about getting back to town in time to open up your shop, I can set the clock

Its not that.

You dont want to stay, he said flatly.

No! Oh, Quin, theres nothing I want more than to fall asleep in your arms and wake up to you in the morning.

Then stay. Please, he whispered, Aiden, I need you.

It was the desperation in his voice that did her in. How could she tell him no when her own heart was begging her to stay? And why should she deny them both the joy of spending the night in each others arms just because she was afraid of what her parents would say if they found out?

After all, they hadnt even known she was missing the night she got lost in the swamp so it wasnt likely theyd notice when she didnt come home tonight. She gazed into Quins dark eyes and wanted to cry for all the sorrow she saw hidden in their depths. He needed her, just as she needed him.

Aiden slipped her arms around his neck. Convince me, she said in a sultry voice.

***

Aiden snuggled closer to Quin. Mmmm, youre so warm, she purred.

We could go inside if it's too cold for you.

No, I like it out here. Her eyes wandered across the back yard to the swamp beyond. I cant see a thing, but its so peaceful out here I cant help but love it.

Its hard to appreciate it when theres no one to share it with.

Aidens stomach knotted. She didnt want to hear that hed isolate himself out here because of his failed marriage, but if there was any chance at a future with Quin, she needed to know where she stood. She couldnt compete with an old flame that stilled burned. It would be inviting a broken heart and she didnt think shed survive falling in love with Quin only to lose him to a woman he wanted but could never have.

If its so lonely, why do you stay?

Itscomplicated, chri.

Youre not in trouble with the law, are you?

Quin chuckled. No, my sweet Aiden, Im not in trouble with the law.

Thenwhat are you hiding from?

Myself, I guess. There are things in my past that I just couldnt face so I took the cowards way out and shut myself off from the rest of the world.

Aiden squeezed her eyes shut. Olivia. He was so shattered by the divorce he couldnt bear to be with anyone if he couldnt be with her. Oh God, it hurt. Why had she invited this

conversation when she knew full well the kind of devastation shed suffer when she heard it from his own lips? But there was no turning back now, was there?

She opened her eyes again and ordered herself not to fall to pieces. She was the one curled up on the lounge chair with Quins arms wrapped possessively around her, not Olivia. She was the one hed made love to for hours and hours, not Olivia. Not Olivia.

You could never be a coward, she managed to say.

I dont think I realized it myself until you came along. You brought me back to life, Aiden.

She could hear the pain in his voice and it clawed at her heart. Tell me, was all she said.

Hed been dreading this moment and though hed known it would come eventually hed hoped for more time with her first. Quin tightened his hold on her, grateful that at least she wasnt looking at him. He didnt think he could tell her the whole sordid tale if he had to watch her expression change from kind understanding to revulsion. He kept his voice low and even, and if there was no emotion when he told her about his marriage to Olivia it was because the only feelings he had were loathing and contempt.

She tricked you into marrying her? Aiden asked when he told her about the fake pregnancy.

Yes, and I hated her for it.

Then you were never in love with her, not even when you first got married?

I admit I was taken in by her beauty, but I was never in love with her. Olivia was perfect, at least physically. She had the face of a goddess and a body to match; perfect hair, perfect teeth, not a blemish on her.

The knots in her stomach that had unwound when he admitted he didnt love Olivia suddenly twisted painfully. Isis that the type of woman youre attracted to?

In the past, I suppose it was. But I learned a very hard lesson from Olivia; the old adage beauty is only skin deep has a harsh truth to it. She was ugly inside and she didnt care who she hurt as long as she got what she wanted.

Im so sorry you had to through all that, Quin. She tilted her head back and offered a tremulous smile. I have to be honest though. Im glad you dont go for that type anymore or I wouldnt be here with you right now.

Youre so wrong, Quin said thickly. Aiden, youre the most beautiful woman Ive ever laid eyes on.

How can you say that when you know I couldnt even begin to compare to someone like Olivia? Aiden cringed inwardly at the strange look that stole across his face. He had to be wondering how she knew what his wife looked like. What I mean isyou said she was perfect on the outside and Imwell, Im not.

Quin smiled down at her. Tell me what you think isnt exquisitely perfect on you?

I have freckles.

Theyre adorable. What else?

My hair is always out of sorts.

I love your hair, he threaded his fingers through it. I liked it better when you didnt straighten it though. You look like a story book gypsy with those wild curls framing your lovely face.

My hips are too wide and my butt is too big.

Quin burst out laughing. Your hips are soft and curvy, not like those stick thin models that look like they could pose for an ad to fight anorexia. As for your derriere, he ran his hand up the back of her thigh and gave her ass a gentle squeeze, it fits perfectly in my hand. What more could a man ask for?

What about my propensity for blurting out the first thing that pops into my head?

Ah, there is that, he agreed, then planted a long, hard kiss on her lips when she frowned. I certainly have my faults too, Aiden, and I dont expect you to be perfect. Hell, I wouldnt adore you like I do if you didnt have those few idiosyncrasies that make you different from any woman Ive ever known.

Having a few idiosyncrasies does sound a lot better than saying I have peculiar habits, she grinned.

Youre perfect for me and thats all that matters.

I can live with that, Aiden said, settling her head back on his shoulder. So when did you finally decide to divorce her?

Quin hesitated for a moment before replying. I didnt divorce her.

You mean after all Olivia put you through, she divorced you?

Aiden, there was no divorce. Olivia was killed in a car wreck a little over two years ago.

Aiden sat up. I dont understand. You said you didnt love her. If thats true, then why are you here mourning over her death?

Im not Quin stopped and pulled her back into his arms. Im not mourning her death, he said quietly. Im sorry that she died, but as heartless as it sounds I wasnt broken up over it. The reason Im here is because its my fault shes dead. I killed her, Aiden, I killed Olivia.

Aiden remained as she was; locked in his arms and letting the warmth of his body drive out the chill that surged through her when he confessed to killing his wife. Guilt is what had brought him here. He must have been driving the car when it wrecked, and judging by the sound of utter despair in his voice, the guilt had been eating him alive ever since.

Were you drinking? Is that why you wrecked the car?

Id had a couple glasses of wine but I wasnt drunk. It was Olivia whod over indulged, as she always did when we attended a social affair. She was getting a little too loud and started

in on me about what a sham our marriage was and what a horrible man I was because I wouldnt sleep with my own wife.

So you were arguing in the car and got distracted, Aiden came to his defense. How can you possibly blame yourself for that?

Because I should have known better, he said harshly. She was drunk and didnt know what she was saying. It wasnt as if it had never happened before. I knew she wouldnt remember any of it the next morning, just as I knew arguing with her when shed had that much to drink would only make her meaner and physically violent.

She hit you?

Launched an attack is more like it, Quin replied bitterly. I told her she was an embarrassment to me and to my family. I said horrible things to her. Oh, it wasnt anything I hadnt said to her when she was sober, but she never could control herself after a few drinks. If only I hadnt goaded her. I was just so furious with her for the way shed behaved.

Is that when she attacked you?

No. It was after she accused me of cheating on her. She said I had to be sleeping with someone else because I certainly wasnt fulfilling her needs. I hadnt slept with her for almost two months but it wasnt because of someone else. I told Olivia the truth; I couldnt have sex with her because I was so turned off by her that I wasntthat I couldnt

Rise to the occasion?

Yeah, he smiled in spite of himself. Bless Aidens quirky talent for spitting out what was on her mind. Thats when Olivia went crazy. She called me every dirty name in the book and when shed run out of words to describe what she thought of me, she unbuckled her seatbelt and threw herself at me. I tried to ward her off but she kept grabbing my arm. I was weaving all over the road so I decided to pull over until I could get her under control.

Quin drew in a shaky breath. I didnt realize how fast I was going until I hit the brakes and nothing happened. There was nothing I could do to stop the car and with Olivia hitting and clawing at me, I lost control of the wheel. We went over an embankment and smashed into a tree. Olivia was thrown through the windshield and killed instantly.

Oh, Quin, Aiden cried, you must have felt so helpless! Were you injured too?

I broke both my legs and for some reason, the airbag didnt deploy so I hit the steering wheel hard enough to crack a few ribs and cause some internal bleeding. It was hours before someone found us. By the time I was released from the private care facility I was in, Olivia had been buried for over two months. It was my mother who suggested I go away until the gossip died down. The tabloids were dying for a story and she thought it would save us all a lot of embarrassment if I simply disappeared for a while.

But that was over two years ago, Aiden exclaimed. Surely they couldnt be interested in you now.

Theyre a pack of blood thirsty wolves, Quin said, the bitterness creeping back into his voice. Every now and then one finds me and has the nerve to knock on my door. Thats why I was so hostile when you showed up. I thought you were a reporter.

Still, its been two years. Why would they be interested in a car accident that happened that long ago?

Quin braced himself against the harsh reaction Aiden was sure to have. Because I was charged with Olivias murder.

No! Aiden sprang up, shaking her head in disbelief. How could they do that to you? So youd had a few drinks. Your brakes had gone out so it wouldnt have made any difference even if you were legally drunk.

I dont know all the details, he admitted. You see, this all took place while I was still recovering. When Mother told me Id been charged, I was in shock. There was an investigation of course, and once they discovered I was telling the truth about the brakes the charges were dropped.

Then why are the tabloids still hounding you?

They think

Quin swallowed the boulder that had lodged itself in his throat. If Aiden turned away from him now he didnt know what hed do. He looked into her trusting eyes and wished to God he didnt have to tell her, but she deserved to know the truth and she deserved to hear it from him.

They think I killed my wife because she was pregnant at the time.

The color drained from Aidens face. Oh God, Quin, you lost your baby too?

He shook his head slowly. She was only a month along so it couldnt have been mine. Olivia was pregnant with another mans child.

Chapter 9
Aidens eyes misted with tears for all the pain hed gone through. Did you ever find out who the father was?

I never tried. Whoever it was, he couldnt have been with Olivia long enough to have any feelings for her or he would have stepped forward and offered testimony to the fact our marriage wasnt what it seemed.

Then how could they know the baby wasnt yours?

Mother told me Olivia had confided in one of her girlfriends. Apparently when this friend of hers informed the investigator, he decided that all the scratches Olivia had inflicted on me were a result of an argument about the pregnancy and that Id deliberately rammed the car into the tree to make her lose it. Thats why they charged me with second degree murder.

Oh, Quin, Aiden cried as she threw her arms around his neck. It must have been horrible for you, being wrongly accused of trying to kill Olivia and knowing there was no way for you to prove otherwise.

Quin crushed her to chest, the pain in his heart slowly ebbing away. You believe me, he whispered hoarsely.

Of course I believe you!

Then you arent planning on leaving me? Quin asked in a voice that wasnt altogether steady.

Aiden leaned back and framed his tortured face in her hands. Never, Quin. The thought never crossed my mind. She brushed a feathery kiss to his lips. Take me back to bed, she whispered, I want to make love to you again.

Quins whole body shook as he stood up with Aiden still in his arms. Thank God, she believed him. After theyd undress and crawled back into bed, he just held her for a while. For two years hed suffered all kinds of self-recrimination while he hid from the rest of the world. Hed fallen into a dark depression for the first several months and had been so lonely the rest of the time hed barely been able to stand it. But as he maneuvered over Aidens body and she gave herself to him once more, he couldnt help thinking it was worth it. If thats what it had taken to bring him to this moment and this woman, he didnt regret a single minute of it.

***

Aiden woke well before dawn, as fully alert as if shed slept for ten hours instead of only two. A feline smile tipped the corners of her mouth as the memory of her night with Quin came rushing back to her. After theyd gone back to bed and made love again theyd lay awake and talked for awhile. Shed told him about her family and how alienated she felt from her parents, something shed never told anyone except Vivian. She talked about her brothers and how much she loved them despite their over-protective nature towards her. She even told him about Giovanni and how hed seduced her when she was only seventeen.

Were you disappointed to find out I wasnt a virgin? She asked timidly.

I would love to have been your first, Quin admitted, but, no, Im not disappointed. If you had been a virgin, I wouldnt have been able to make love to you as many times as I have. And, he said with grin, you wouldnt have known how to do some of the things you did to me.

Aiden blushed when she recalled how bold shed been, how shed trailed kisses down his flat belly and taken him in her mouth. IIve never actually done that before, she confessed, her cheeks growing even hotter when he laughed softly.

You could have fooled me, amourex.

What does that mean, amourex?

Its French for sweetheart.

Aiden had felt a giddy sense of happiness. I like it when you say endearments in French. Its extremely sexy.

Really? Quin said with a husk in his voice.

Hed rolled on top of her then and whispered everything in French while hed made love to her for what seemed like hours. She was still tingling from that wild encounter because she hadnt been lying when shed told him it was sexy. It was an incredible turn on and shed climaxed so many times during that last encounter shed lost track. Shed turned over on her side and fallen into an exhausted sleep with Quins body curled around hers like a warm blanket. He was still pressed snugly against her back now and had one arm slung over her waist.

Aiden carefully extracted herself and inched her way to the edge of the bed. She clenched her teeth together to keep from groaning out loud when she stood up and discovered just how sore she was. Even as amorous as Lance had been, hed never made love to her more than twice in one night and he certainly wasnt in the same league as Quin when it came to both size and stamina. Her legs wobbled as she collected her clothes and made her way to the bathroom but they werent quite as bad by the time she relieved herself and finished dressing.

She fished a business card out of her purse and jotted down her cell phone number beneath the imprinted work number then flipped it over. I miss you already, she wrote then hesitated for a minute before adding, Love, Aiden. Maybe she wasnt completely in love with him, she defended herself, but she was well on her way and it wouldnt take much for her to fall head over heels for Quin. If he didnt callwell, she supposed that would answer the question as to whether he felt the same or not.

She left the card propped against the lamp on the nightstand and quietly slipped out of the room and down to the dock. The sun was just starting to rise so she wasnt worried about having enough time to get home and up to her room before anyone else was awake. Only their cook, Mirella, would be up at this hour and shed be too busy in the kitchen to notice as long as Aiden came in through the front door instead of the back. Even if anyone did notice shed been gone, shed simply tell them shed spent the night at a friends house.

The ride back through the bayou was peaceful and it gave her time to think. She didnt want to hurt James but there was no use pretending she was still considering his proposal of marriage, not when her heart belonged to Quin. Of course, she couldnt tell James that. Shed

have to find some other way to break the news to him, some way to let him down easy so she didnt wound his pride or his kind heart.

The house was quiet when Aiden crept inside and hurried up the stairs. It was a good sign, she told herself, even though part of her wished shed come home and found them all worried sick about her. It was silly to hope that one day her parents would open their eyes and see she needed their love just as much as her brothers did, but she just couldnt help it. She made a silent vow; when she got married and had children, shed love them all just the same and it wouldnt make any difference if they were male or female.

Aiden was a little starry eyed when she slipped inside her room. True, it was way too early in her relationship with Quin to be thinking of marriage and having babies, but that didnt stop a few hundred butterflies from taking flight in the pit of her stomach. One thing was sure; if they ever did get married it wouldnt take him long to get her pregnant, not with the endurance that man had. Aiden was just reaching for the lamp when she was startled by the figure of a man rising from the chair in the corner by her bed.

Where the hell have you been? He growled.

Aidens hand flew to her throat. Christof, you scared me half to death!

I asked you where youd been.

Since when have you become my keeper? She shot back.

Since I ran into James and Vivian last night and was informed my sister had cancelled her date and was at home with the stomach flu. Except you werent here when I checked on you, and you didnt come home all night. So where were you, Aiden?

Not that its any of your business, but I spent the night at a friends.

So you were too sick to keep your date with James but not too sick to spend the night with a friend?

II started feeling better so I

You always were a horrible liar, Christof said as he rounded the bed to stand in front of her. Who is he?

I dont know what youre talking about. Fire burned in her cheeks, a dead giveaway that she was lying through her teeth but Aiden didnt care.

Christof gripped her by the shoulders. The other morning when you came in wearing a mans shirtyou were with him then too, werent you? When she didnt say anything, the expression on his face hardened. Youd better start talking or so help me God Ill drag your butt downstairs and see if Father or Mother can get it out of you.

No! Christof, please Tears pooled in her eyes. You cant tell them, you just cant.

I cant make that promise, he said, though his hold on her loosened considerably. Talk to me, Aiden. You have no idea how worried I was about you. If you hadnt come home this morning He shook his head.

Im sorry, Aiden choked out. I wasnt planning on staying out all night, it justhappened.

What happened?

She let out a sigh of resignation and asked him to sit down, though she paced restlessly back and forth while she recounted what happened the night she got lost. She hesitated to tell him the part where Quin kissed her, but leaving that out would only have made her obsession in seeing Quin again seem even more insane. He listened without interruption, but it was obvious by his grim expression he wasnt at all pleased that shed been so impetuous. Even after shed explained how Quin had gone looking for her, Christof just sat there staring at her as if shed lost her mind.

I wasnt planning on doing anything but seeing him again just to find out if what I was feeling was real. Christof, her eyes pleaded with him to understand, the minute I saw him again I knew we were meant to be together. He makes me happy, deliriously happy. Ive never felt this way before, not in my entire life, and Im sorry for lying to James and Viv and for making you worry, but I just had to be with him.

Christofs jaw flexed. You slept with him.

Aiden smiled for the first time since shed come into the room. I hate to disillusion you, big brother, but Quin is not the first man Ive slept with.

Aiden, stop, he said with a groan. I dont want to hear about your love life any more than you want to hear about mine.

I just didnt want you to think hed seduced a nave little virgin.

What about James? Are you just going to drop this on him after letting him believe youd marry him?

I never told him Id marry him, I only said Id give him a chance. And I have no intention of telling him about Quin, I wouldnt hurt him that way.

So what are you going to do?

I dont know, but Ill think of something.

We checked James out, you know. AidenI know you think this Quinten Hawke is it for you, but Im telling you the honest truth when I say you couldnt find a better man than James. The man should be nominated for sainthood. We didnt find one person who had a single thing bad to say about him.

I know, she said miserably, but I cant help the way I feel.

Christofs voice softened. James would be good to you. Hed be a good husband, and hed always be there for you.

You dont have to tell me how wonderful James is, but hes not Quin.

All right, Christof said with a heavy sigh. I can see that nothing I say is going to change your mind, but I want you to promise me something before you break it off with James.

Let you check Quin out?

Yes. Before you do anything youll regret later, let me find out more about him.

I know youre just concerned about me, Christof, but its really not necessary to waste your time investigating him. You seeI told Vivian about Quin and asked if shed help me find information on him. Not because I thought there was anything suspicious about him, she rushed to assure him, but because I wanted to find out what happened to make him want to live all alone out there.

Christof rose to his feet. Have either of you found out anything I should know about?

I havent had a chance to talk to Viv yet but she told me shed discovered something. Im sure its probably just articles about the car wreck his wife was killed in. And before you say anything, I promise to tell you everything Viv found out.

Youre sure you know what youre doing?

No, she smiled wryly, but I have to follow my heart on this, Christof.

All right, you win. He leaned down and kissed her cheek. But I expect to hear from you as soon as you talk to Vivian. If you insist on trolling the swamp to see Hawke, I want to know where this place is so I know where to look if you decide to pull a disappearing act again.

As soon as Christof left, Aiden headed for the shower. If she hurried and skipped breakfast she could just make it to the shop in time to prepare for the long day ahead of her. It was only after shed showered and gotten dressed that she thought to check her cell phone for messages. She usually kept the ringer turned off while she was at work and had forgotten to turn it back on when she left early the day before. There was one message from James, several from Christof, and three from Viv.

She didnt bother listening to all of Christofs messages, the first two were bad enough, and the message James left was just to say he hoped she felt better in the morning. Vivians first message was left right before James picked her up for the play asking how she was doing and if there was anything she needed. The second one made Aidens stomach ball into a knot.

This is Viv. IuhI dont want you to be mad, butI casually brought up Quintens name while James and I were at dinner and I really need you to call me. Dont worryI didnt even mention your name so he has no idea youre the one who asked me to find information on Quin. Call me when you get this.

Aiden deleted the message, wondering what James could possible know about Quin. Had they crossed paths at one time or done business together? Now that she thought of it, she realized she didnt have a clue how Quin made a living. Whatever it was, it had to be something he could do by phone or computer since he rarely left his house. With a heavy sense of foreboding, she listened to Vivians last message.

Aiden, please pick up. There was a short pause before Viv sighed into the phone. Okay, I guess youre sleeping off that stomach flu. I need you to call me the minute you get

this. I have to tell you what I found out from James and also what I picked up on my own. Justdont see Quin until after you talk to me, okay?

It was obvious Vivian was concerned about what shed discovered but Aiden wasnt nearly as worried now as she would have been if shed gotten the messages before shed gone to see Quin. She was glad shed made the decision to talk to him first because she might have been tempted to believe some of the lies the papers had printed about him. It didnt matter, Aiden decided as she got in her car and headed for the shop. No matter what Vivian found out, nothing was going to keep her from seeing Quin again.

***

The shop hadnt been open for more than ten minutes when the first customer walked in. The town shed chosen to open her boutique in was small and though she occasionally did business with the locals, most of her customers were just passing through on their way to one of the larger cities. Shed acquired a good number of regulars too, who often called to tell her what they were looking for and asked that she keep an eye out for it. Aiden frequently attended antique auctions, and for the most part she was able to find what her customers wanted or something similar enough she was able to keep them happy.

Business was slow but steady for most of the morning, and along with the customers who strolled in, she was kept busy finishing up a piece shed promised one of her regulars would be done by the end of the week. It was almost eleven oclock when she felt the vibration of her cell phone in her back pocket and hurriedly wiped her hands on her smock before answering it.

You should have waked me up, Quin lightly chastised. I never even got a kiss goodbye.

Aiden migrated behind the counter where she couldnt be overheard. That would have been way too risky because you can never stop at just one.

So Im greedy when it comes to kissing you, what can I say? You really should have waked me though so I could have followed you home to make sure you got there okay. I dont like the idea of you wandering through the swamp alone.

Ive gotten very good at navigating so there was no need to worry. Besides, you were sleeping so soundly I didnt have the heart to wake you.

WellIll forgive you this time, but dont let it happen again.

Aiden smiled into the phone. Does that mean theres going to be a next time?

Oh yeah, he said softly. As a matter of fact, I was hoping you could spare a little time for me on your lunch hour.

You have no idea how tempting that is, but I break for lunch in five minutes and even if I left right away, it would take a good hour just for me to get there.

Who said anything about you coming to me?

What?

Aidens head snapped up when the bell over the door rang. The phone slipped from her hand and landed on the counter with a dull thud but she didnt notice and wouldnt have cared if she had. Quin stood just inside her doorway, looking taller and even more handsome than ever in a pair of snug blue jeans and black cotton shirt. Without even thinking about what she was doing, Aiden scurried around the counter and flew across the room, practically leaping into his waiting arms.

His mouth came down over hers, hot and hungry, and it was only after theyd been kissing for several minutes that she remembered where they were. Aiden pulled her head back, casting a guilty glance around the room and was relieved to see there were no customers standing around gawking at them. She turned her eyes back to Quin, who seemed rather amused by the vivid blush staining her cheeks.

I didnt even think to look, she said a little breathlessly.

Quins eyes danced with amusement. I waited until the last customer left and locked the door when I came in.

We can still be seen through the windows, Aiden pointed out, but wasnt quite as concerned about that as shed been about kissing him while there was a customer inside the shop.

Is there some place more private we can go?

Just the storage area, Aiden replied, but theres not much room back there.

Standing room only?

Definitely.

Could be interesting.

Aiden stepped away from him, still feeling a bit light headed at the sight of him standing in her boutique. Follow me, Mr. Hawke, she said as she led the way to the back room.

The door barely had time to close behind them before Quin had her pinned against the wall. The air was ripped from Aidens lungs when his hands slipped beneath her smock and pulled it up over her head along with the tank top shed wore beneath it. Shed never done anything like this before and would have been appalled by the idea that she was about to have sex in the back room of her boutique if she hadnt found it so wildly exciting. While Quin divested her of her bra, Aidens fingers worked frantically to unzip his jeans.

They were both breathing hard, having worked each other into a feverish frenzy by the time the last piece of clothing hit the floor. Quin cupped her bottom and lifted her up, letting out a low groan of male satisfaction when she wrapped those long legs around his waist just as he thrust up inside of her. After the night theyd had, Quin hadnt even entertained the idea of making love to her so soon, but all it had taken was one breathless smile when hed walked through the door and hed been hard as a rock.

To say it was only about the hot sex would have been a lie because hed discovered during the long hours theyd spent together the night before that it had more to do with being a part of Aiden, an intimate joining of bodies as well as their hearts. Hed already figured out there was more between them than just sizzling chemistry but it wasnt until hed watched her

face light up when he came into the boutique and felt the answering thump of his heart hammering against his chest that Quin finally admitted he was hopelessly in love with her.

As he drove himself into her slick heat again and again, Quin whispered the words in French, knowing she wouldnt understand what he was saying but exalting in the happiness that surged through him each time he repeated them. One day soon hed be free to say it English but right now the fear of scaring Aiden off made him overly cautious.

Je taime, mon chri, he whispered with heartfelt emotion, Je taime, Je taime

Aiden buried her face in Quins neck so he wouldnt see the shimmer of tears in her eyes. Her mother and father didnt exchange endearments often but despite the way Giselle Lucisano guarded her emotions, she was deeply in love with her husband and never held back telling him so. It was one of the few times her French heritage was acknowledged because she always reverted to her native language when she said it. They were the same words that Quin was using now, Je taime, I love you, and it filled Aidens heart with such happiness she was completely overwhelmed by it.

They were both too electrically charged physically for it to last long, but coupled with such volatile emotions, it was only a matter of minutes before the inevitable happened. Imprisoned as she was between the wall and Quins body, Aiden could do little more than squirm like a fish caught on a hook as he buried himself deep inside her one last time. The primal growl that vibrated deep in his throat was the catalyst to Aidens own rapturous release. Stars exploded behind her eyes as they strained against each other, milking every last ounce of pleasure until there was nothing left but the tingling afterglow of their spent passion.

Aiden trailed kisses along the side of Quins neck and across the line of his strong jaw to his lips. There was no urgency now; just a slow, lingering kiss that she hoped conveyed the depth of her emotions. Oh, lord, the things he did to her mind, her body, her soul. She was feeling decidedly drunk as she unwound her legs from around his waist but it wasnt their ardent love making session that made her dizzy, it was the look in his eyes and the tender smile on his lips.

Aiden threaded her fingers through his hair and drew his head down, but she didnt kiss him. Instead, she pressed her cheek to his and whispered in his ear what she felt so strongly in her heart.

I love you too, Quin. Je taime...Je taime.

***

Aiden was still floating on a cloud an hour later when she opened the shop back up. Quin had gone silent after she said she loved him and for a few agonizing moments Aiden thought shed heard him wrong and that the poor man was wondering what the hell hed gotten himself into. But when hed lifted his head, there was nothing but pure happiness shining through his eyes. Shed giggled like a school girl when he planted kisses all over her face.

Get dressed, he told her after hed finally stopped kissing her. Well celebrate with a picnic lunch.

I hate to put a damper on the party, Aiden said as she gathered up her clothes, but I only have about forty minutes before I have to open up again so I really dont have time to go out.

Quin had already gotten his jeans and shirt back on and was just reaching for his boots. Wait here, he said, as he slipped out the door still in his stockinged feet.

By the time Aiden finished dressing, Quin returned toting a picnic basket, complete with a checkered blanket and a bottle of wine. Hed spread it out as best he could in the cramped quarters and theyd laughed their way through a feast of chicken and potato salad then shared a piece of apple pie. She couldnt remember when shed had so much fun and was a little sad when it was time for him to pack everything up and leave, although the good-bye kiss hed given her had gone a long way in buoying her spirits.

Aiden waltzed back to the coffee table she was refinishing and had just kneeled down beside it when the bell over the door rang. There was a huge smile on her face when she looked up because she fully expected to see Quin standing there with some lame excuse as to why he had to come back. But it wasnt Quin. Aiden fought back the disappointment, hiding behind a faltering smile as James closed the distance between them and extended his hand to help her up.

He leaned down and dropped a kiss on her cheek. Im sorry for not calling first, but theres something I need to talk to you about and I didnt think it could wait.

Aiden tried not to panic. Enough time had passed that he couldnt possibly have seen Quin leave, but she could tell by his worried frown that something was weighing pretty heavily

on his mind. Her hands were shaking as she led him to the small sitting area and took her place beside him on one of the loveseats.

I hope its nothing serious, she said woodenly.

To tell the truth, Im not sure how serious it is. I was hoping maybe you could tell me if Im worrying for nothing.

Aidens heart was pounding but somehow she managed to sound normal. What is it, James?

Its something Vivian told me last night.

Something Vivian told you, she repeated faintly.

James took her hand in his. AidenI need you to tell me about Quinten Hawke.

Chapter 10
Quinten Hawke? She repeated him a second time. Oh God, she sounded like a parrot!

Its okay, Aiden, you dont have to pretend you havent talked with Vivian about him. I know how close the two of you are and that you confide in each other.

The color leached from Aidens face. James, II dont know what to say. It was wrong of me not to come to you right away and tell you about him.

Dont be so hard on yourself. I dont expect you to divulge everything you and Vivian talk about. Its justIm concerned about her because shes so incredibly innocent and it would be so easy for a man to take advantage of her.

Aiden blinked. Take advantage of her? What in the world was he talking about? She must have cobwebs in her head because she certainly couldnt have heard him right. Diddid you say you were concerned about Vivian?

Of course I am. Aiden, youre both so young and I know this man claiming to be Quinten Hawke must seem like he stepped right out of a romance novel, but hes trouble with a capital T and weve just got to do something before its too late. He must have dazzled her with his smooth talking lies because hes obviously filled her head with fantasies about who he is.

Aiden just stared at him while she tried to absorb what hed said. Ima little confused. What do you mean hes claiming to be Quinten Hawke? And what lies has he supposedly told mmy friend?

His smile was kind, but it was clear he thought she was as nave as Vivian. As I tried to explain to Vivian, this man couldnt possibly be Quinten so it only stands to reason that everything hes told her about himself is a lie. There arent any tabloid reporters still nosing around for a story because there is no story.

Aiden rubbed at her temple. Im sorry, but Im just not getting the big picture here.

Let me start from the beginning then maybe youll understand better.

Yes, that would be she glanced at the door when an elderly couple came in. As soon as they leave, Ill close the boutique so we can discuss this without interruptions.

Would it be better if I left and came back when you close up for the day?

No! II mean, if you felt this was important enough to come here in the first place, I think I should listen to what you have to say. Ill be right back, she said with a thin smile. The couple seemed to take forever to browse before they finally purchased a few small items and left. You were saying? Aiden asked as soon as shed locked up and returned to sit beside James.

It was over dinner, he began. Vivian and I were discussing mutual friends and acquaintances when she brought up Quinten Hawkes name. I asked how she knew him and Vivian told me she wasnt the one whod met him, that it was a friend of hers whod fallen hard for Quinten.

And you think she was talking about herself?

You would have come to the same conclusion if youd seen how nervous she was when I started asking questions, and she seemedevasive which isnt at all like Vivian.

Aiden was feeling more than a little nervous herself. Maybe she wasnt being evasive. If shed only just met him, isnt it possible she just didnt know enough about him to answer your questions?

I considered that, but she got really upset when I told her she needed to warn her friend to stay away from him. I was even more convinced she was talking about herself then because she told me it wouldnt matter what she told this friend of hers. Apparently her friend is already emotionally involved and is determined to see him again.

But James, if it really is a friend and not Vivian herself, what right does she have to warn this woman to stay away from QuinQuinten?

Thats the problem, James said, the worry lines on his forehead becoming more pronounced. Whether its Vivian or one of her friends, this man could potentially be dangerous so I wouldnt want either one of them around him.

He is not dangerous, Aiden said testily. Just because he chose a life of seclusion after his wife died doesnt mean hes a psychopath.

James gave her a strange look. Id believe thatif we were actually talking about the Quinten Hawke I knew, but were not.

So he changed after his wife was killed, she jumped to Quins defense. Everybody handles grief in their own way, James. Maybe he just couldnt deal with it and needed time alone to heal. You cant possibly condemn him for that.

Its not about dealing with grief. Listen to me, Aiden. I knew Quinten, he was a good man and I genuinely liked him. Wed done some business together and Id even been to a few of the parties he and his wife threw at their house.

Aiden let out a frustrated sigh. If thats true, then why are you so adamant that hes no good now?

Because, James said softly, this man Vivian is infatuated with isnt Quentin Hawk, he couldnt be. I know because Quentin died over two years ago in the same car wreck that killed his wife.

No, she choked out, no, youre wrong.

Im not wrong, Aiden. I attended the funeral for Quinten and Olivia; I offered condolences to his mother. I dont know what games this other man is playing but Im going to find out and put an end to it.

Her eyes darted to the door leading to the back room. If Quin was dead then who had she made love to less than an hour ago? Oh God, whose bed had she slept in last night? Acid churned in her stomach. It couldnt be true. NoJames was mistaken. Or maybe hed figured out that she was the friend Vivian had been talking about and now he was trying to frighten her

so she wouldnt see Quin again. Aiden turned back to James, half expecting to see a look of triumph on his face but if anything, he only seemed more worried than before.

You said you attended his funeral, she said, not quite sure where she was going with this.

Thats right.

Then you saw his body and can say without a doubt that it was Quinten Hawke in that casket?

Not exactly, James grimaced. The accident was pretty bad so there was a closedcasket ceremony for each of them. At any rate, what does it matter?

I guess it doesnt, Aiden replied, though it did make a difference, a huge difference as a matter of fact, because it meant there was still a chance it hadnt been Quin in that casket.

So we agree theres something strange going on and that youll talk to Vivian make her promise to stay away from him?

Aiden was perfectly honest when she responded. You have my word. Ill do everything in my power to make sure Viv doesnt pursue a relationship with him.

Good, James said with obvious relief. He reached out and lightly caressed the side of her face. You look a little pale. Is your stomach still bothering you?

I do feel a bit queasy, she told him, because that was the honest truth too.

I was hoping you could accompany me to a dinner party tonight but I can see youre not up to going out just yet.

Im sorry, James. Im afraid Ive been a big disappointment to you lately.

Not at all, he smiled warmly.

Aiden hated herself for letting him down and she hated herself even more for conspiring to get both him and Vivian out of the way so she could go see Quin. Even more contemptible was the way her mind was frantically searching for a way to keep them both occupied until she could figure out what she was going to do.

What if she confronted Quin and he admitted what James said was true, that hed stolen a dead mans identity for some devious reason? And if James was wrong? How would Quin react to being accused of something so despicable? How could he ever forgive her for not trusting him? Whatever the outcome, she had to know who it was shed given her heart to.

James? Would you mind if I asked you to invite Vivian to that dinner tonight?

I dont think thats a very good idea, Aiden.

If youre worried about what people will think, theres really no need. No one knows you and I are seeing each other except my family and Vivian, remember?

It still feels wrong, he said with a slight frown.

But its not, she argued. The reason Im asking is because I may not get the chance to talk to Viv today about Quinten and I think wed both feel better knowing shes safe with you tonight, right?

Of course, he readily agreed. I should have thought of that myself. Are you sure you dont mind?

Why should I? It was my suggestion after all and I know Vivian thinks highly of you so shed be happy to go in my place.

After hed gone, Aiden walked numbly to the middle of the boutique and just stood there having a complete and total mind meltdown. Everything James told her just seemed too preposterous. If Quin really was the Quinten Hawke that James had known then he had to have faked his death, and that left her with the question, why? And if he wasnt Quin, why steal the identity of someone who was dead then hide out where no one could find you anyway?

So many burning questions; where did she even begin to find the answers?

***

Thanks for coming down here, Aiden said as she let Vivian in then locked the door again. She nodded to the loveseat she and James had sat on earlier. Ill be lucky to stay in business after closing up early two days in a row.

Your business is growing in leaps and bounds, Vivian assured her, closing a little early isnt going to keep people from clamoring for you beautiful pieces.

Aiden took the chair across from the loveseat. Thanks for agreeing to go out with James again tonight.

Its not going out with him that bothers me; hes a lot of fun to be around. Its the deception I dont like, Aiden. What am I supposed to say if he brings up Quins name? I almost died last night when I asked a few casual questions and ended up opening a whole can of worms.

You dont have to worry about that. James promised he wouldnt bring it up unless you did. What I need to know now iswhat exactly did the two of you discuss last night?

Like I said, I casually brought up Quins name and said a friend of mine was infatuated with him. When I asked James if he knew him, he started firing questions at me so fast I got flustered and couldnt have gotten a straight answer out if my life had depended on it. It was just horrible because I know he thought I was just trying to avoid answering him, but honestly I was tongue tied.

Is that when he told you Quin had died in the car wreck too?

Yes, but I already knew. I left a few messages for you but I guess you were sleeping and didnt hear your phone.

Aidens heart sank. So its true, the real Quinten Hawke died over two years ago?

Yes, and it really wasnt that difficult to find information on because of his mothers social status. The woman was just ghastly as far as Im concerned, using her sons death as a

way to pan for media attention. Camilla interviewed for every major newspaper for miles and even stooped to granting interviews with gossip magazines.

Maybe it helped her get through the pain of his death, Aiden said absently.

You mean by keeping him alive through the media for awhile longer?

I suppose. VivI know this is going to sound crazy, but I just cant believe Quin would have lied to me. Ive gone over it a million times since James told me and it just doesnt make any sense. She proceeded to tell Quins version of what happened the night Olivia died. And what about his drivers license and Social Security number, did they match up with his name?

Yes, but that doesnt prove anything. The license was renewed shortly before the accident but doesnt expire for another year. Anyone could have created a fake I.D. and put this mans picture on it with the real Quintens information. As for his Social Security number, it hasnt been used for payroll or anything else since that night either. Im sorry, Aiden, but everything points to this man being a con artist.

A con artist, Aiden snorted. What kind of con artist hides away in the swamp and then does his damnedest to get rid of the one visitor he gets? He never even asked my last name so he obviously had no intention of keeping me prisoner and trying to milk my Father for money. If hes a con artist, hes a really bad one.

What other explanation is there?

He faked his death, Aiden said firmly.

For what purpose?

I dont know, but its a lot more believable than the theory youve come up with.

What about his mother? Come on, Aiden, you cant honestly believe his own mother would go along with this and even go so far as to do all those interviews.

Maybe she doesnt know, Aiden suggested. Maybe he didnt think it would work if she knew he was still alive or maybe letting her in on the secret would have put her life in danger.

Good Lord, you make it sound like a spy movie or something. Aiden, you have to face the truth. Quinten Hawke is dead and this man has sucked you into his scam for some reason.

By some reason, you mean hes after my money.

Yes, thats exactly what I think, Vivian said with conviction.

Viv, my parents are the ones with all the money. All I have is a trust fund and this business.

A trust fund worth a couple of million dollars, Vivian pointed out.

Theres no way he could know that, Aiden insisted.

Well, its obvious theres nothing I can say thats going to make you believe this man isnt the real Quinten Hawke so Ill just have to keep digging until I find more proof.

Well both keep digging.

You could just let it go, Vivian said hopefully. If you never saw him again there wouldnt be any reason for you to keep searching for answers and then I wouldnt spend all my time worrying about you.

Its too late for that, Viv.

I know, Vivian sighed, but I had to try. She stood up and headed for the door. Call me tomorrow and well work out a master plan.

Aiden followed after her. You mean youre still going to help me?

Vivian turned around. Do you remember when we were twelve and that awful gym teacher who tried to make me go off the high dive?

Yeah, I still have nightmares about that old battleaxe.

And do you remember what you told her after youd followed me up and she hollered for you to climb back down so I could make the dive alone?

Aiden laughed. I took your hand and said, if you jump, I jump.

Well, Vivian said with a grin, its payback time. If you jump, I jump.

***

Is there a reason you didnt bother to tell your father and I that you were too sick to keep your date with James last night?

Aiden shot Christof a scathing glance. I just didnt want to be a bother to anyone.

Giselle eyed her daughter from across the dinner table as if she was an alien creature that couldnt possibly carry even a drop Lucisano blood inside her. Aiden forced herself not to fidget or acknowledge in any way that her mother was making her nervous. All she had to do was make it through dinner then excuse herself by saying she was going to spend the night at Vivians.

She had it all planned out. Her overnight bag was already packed and ready to go. After dinner, shed drive into town and leave her car at the boutique. Then shed walk down to the docks where Quin would be waiting with his boat to take her to his place. Once he was asleep, shed sneak downstairs and nose around his study where she was sure to find something with his name on it even if it was just a utility bill. As long as it was a recent piece of mail, shed be able to prove to herself and Vivian that he really was Quinten Hawke.

Aiden, please pay attention when Im talking to you, Giselle chastised.

Sorry, Mother, she mumbled.

I asked if youd been to see a doctor.

No, II feel much better today. I think it was just a little stomach flu but its gone now.

Just to be safe, I think it would be a good idea for you to go to bed early tonight.

Aiden looked at Christof to see if he had a hand in this but he merely arched a brow. It was his way of telling her to stop letting their mother bully her and to stand up for herself.

Easier said than done when Giselle made a request sound like a royal command that would result in the loss of a limb or two if it was disobeyed.

She reminded herself that she was a grown woman who was no longer living under her parents roof and subject to their rules. Besides, Quin was probably already on his way and there was no way in hell she was giving up this night with him no matter how it turned out in the end.

I feel fine, Aiden ventured, albeit a little timidly. As a matter of fact, she continued, Im spending the night with Vivian.

I should think youd have more sense, Giselle said in a clipped tone. Youll only make it worse and youll be exposing Vivian to whatever bug youve got.

Whatever bug I had is gone now, Aiden replied as she scooted her chair back. If youll excuse me, Vivian is expecting me at her place in forty minutes.

Giselle set her fork down and gave her full attention to Aiden. I have no idea why youve decided you can just disregard my wishes as if they mean nothing, but I wont stand for it. Perhaps I need to remind you that I am your mother?

Aiden stood up, fully prepared to do battle, but to her surprise Enzio came to her defense.

She looks healthy enough to me, Mother. He flashed the same charming smile on Giselle that had gotten him out of trouble more times than Aiden could count. Im sure Aiden didnt mean any disrespect, but she is old enough to make her own decisions, dont you agree?

Of course she is, Giselle said before turning to Aiden. I was just concerned about your health, but if you feel youre up to it then go and enjoy yourself.

Aiden couldnt get out of there fast enough. She hurried upstairs and grabbed her things then left without saying good-bye to anyone. She was done cowing down to her mother, done walking on eggshells for fear shed draw attention to herself, done pretending that either of her parents gave a crap what happened to her.

After tonight there was going to be some changes in her life, and the first one was ending her stay at the Lucisano Estates. She was going to live her life her own way and to hell with what anyone else thought.

***

Quin felt her tension the minute he helped Aiden into the boat and leaned forward to kiss her. Not that she held back. On the contrary, she attacked his mouth with such wild abandon he was terrified it was a good-bye kiss and that shed break the bad news to him the moment he drew his head back. It was an unreasonable fear, especially since shed handed him her overnight bag and briefcase before taking his hand and joining him in the boat, but the uneasiness didnt start to dissipate until she sat down and hed shoved off from the dock.

She seemed content to watch the scenery and didnt say but a few words the entire trip and Quin didnt press her. There would be plenty of time to coax it out of her later. All he wanted to do was get back to his house and hold her in his arms until he convinced himself she wasnt going anywhere. And yes, he did want her in his bed but if they did nothing but sleep

together, that was okay with him too. He just wanted her to be happy and right now she looked far from it.

It was already dark by the time he docked the boat and carried her things up to the house with Aiden trailing behind him. When he told her hed take her bag and the briefcase he assumed contained papers for work up to his room, she merely nodded and remained where she was as he headed upstairs. Quin was deeply disturbed by her sullen behavior, though he didnt think it was directed at him. He set her things at the foot of the bed and was surprised to find her standing right behind him when he turned to go.

Make love to me, she said so softly it was little more than a whisper.

He wanted to ask her what was wrong and make it all go away so shed get her smile back but something in those sad eyes of hers told him that sharing the intimacy of making love would do just that. Aiden needed him. She needed him and that was all the mattered.

He loved her with a fury that far surpassed all the other times and it didnt take him long to succumb to sleep afterwards. With Aiden tucked close by his side, he was out in a matter of minutes but sometime in the night he woke to find shed left his bed. Pulling on a pair of boxers, Quin went to search for her, certain hed find her in the kitchen looking for something to eat or drink. He tried to quell the moment of panic that rose hard and sharp when he discovered the kitchen was empty. As he made his way down the hall, he told himself she was just having trouble sleeping and was wandering around the house to tire herself.

Quin nearly laughed out loud when he saw the sliver of light from beneath his study door. Shed simply gone to look for a book and had probably curled up in his armchair and

fallen asleep. He eased the door open so he wouldnt wake her then stopped dead in his tracks when he spied her sitting at his desk, rifling through his drawers.

Of all the people whod betrayed him in his lifetime, this one hurt the most. An agonizing pain hurled through his body, knocking the air from his lungs as he watched her copy down something from one of the envelopes shed pulled out then place it in the pocket of her robe.

So my first assessment was correct, he snarled.

Aiden jumped, her eyes round with fear at the furious look on his face. QuinI can explain. I was just

Dont bother, he cut her off. Quin stormed across the room and yanked her out of the chair. You conniving little bitch! To think I actually believed it when you said you loved me.

I do, Aiden cried, I do love you, Quin! Please, just let me explain.

Quin gripped one arm and practically dragged her out of the study and up to his bedroom. She just stood there sobbing uncontrollably as he grabbed up her bag and briefcase and tossed them on the bed, but he was beyond caring. Scooping her clothes from the floor, he thrust them at her.

Get dressed, he barked.

Quin, please, please dont do this, Aiden begged.

His eyes narrowed. Give me one good reason why I should listen to anything you have to say.

She took a step towards him then stopped, her heart breaking neatly in two when his body tensed. Bebecause I love you.

Quins face lost all expression. I dont believe you. Now I suggest you get dressed unless you want to get dropped off at the dock wearing your robe.

Aiden clutched the clothes to her chest, shaking so violently it was a wonder she could stand at all. Quin was masking his emotions beneath a stone facade but she could see the pain that was hovering behind the fury blazing in his eyes. She couldnt blame him for feeling betrayed after catching her in the act of snooping through his drawers, but she had a right to feel betrayed too considering what shed discovered. The smartest thing she could do right now was muster up enough pride to get dressed and let him take her back to town.

Theyd never crossed paths before so there was no reason to believe theyd ever meet again. But the thought of never being with him again, of never feeling the enormous love hed filled her heart with or having his body curled around hers as they drifted off to sleepit was simply too unbearable. So what if he wasnt the real Quinten Hawke? Obviously he wasnt some hardened criminal or hed be trying to figure out a way to keep her from exposing him rather than sending her away.

Right or wrong she loved him, and despite the fact he was trying to push her out of his life, Aiden knew he loved her too. Whatever hed done in the past, whatever trouble he was in

now, he needed her more than ever. The biggest betrayal of all would be to walk away as if hed never meant anything to her and she refused to hurt him that way.

Aiden lifted her chin and met his cool gaze with defiance. Love was a powerful weapon; it gave her strength shed never had before and it brought a clarity of mind and heart that would see her through the next few minutes. She was under no illusions; what she said now would make or break them but Aiden wasnt afraid.

It was a double edged sword, and just as she used her own love for him to give her strength, she was going to use his love for her to weaken him.

Chapter 11
Quin didnt miss the stubborn lift of her chin or the determination in her eyes. He was both furious with Aiden and utterly crushed but he wouldnt allow either emotion to so much as flicker across his face. He crossed his arms and waited for the barrage of lies and excuses that would no doubt spew from her pretty mouth. It wouldnt matter, he told himself. Whatever she had to say would fall on deaf ears and a heart that had been turned to ice.

Aiden dropped the clothes in a pile at her feet and kicked them aside, taking one measured step at a time until she stood before his imposing frame. At least he thought he was imposing with his arms crossed and the chilly glare he was giving her, but it only reinforced her belief he was hiding behind a stone wall so she wouldnt know he was just as scared of losing her as she was of losing him.

Her hand was surprisingly steady when she lifted it to his cheek and though his eyes wavered for a fraction of a second, he didnt shy away from her touch. Aiden peered up at him and said the only three words that had enough power behind them to penetrate his defenses.

I trust you.

Quin blinked. He opened his mouth to speak then closed it again because he didnt have a single clue how he was supposed to respond to that. She trusted him? Hed braced himself against the possibility shed profess her love again and had been fully prepared to tell Aiden what a bold faced liar she was and that he wanted nothing more to do with her.

He might even have survived the total annihilation of his heart once hed banished her from his life and gone back to the lonely existence hed endured before shed turned his world upside down. But how he could do that now when she was standing before him with her heart in her eyes, offering him the only thing she had left to give?

Quin covered her hand with his and pressed his lips against the softness of her palm. AidenAiden, he murmured.

Im here, she crooned as he pulled her close and buried his face in her neck. Well work it out together, Aiden promised. Ill never leave you, never.

Quin held her tight against his trembling body. Forgive me, chri. Ive never loved anyone the way I love you and when I saw you going through my desk I thought youd only been playing me.

I know what it must have looked like, and Im sorry for putting you through that but I just had to know who you were so I could help you.

Quin drew his head back. Who I am? You know who I am.

Its okay, Aiden smiled up at him through a mist of tears. I know youre not really Quinten Hawke but it doesnt matter. Nothing matters as long you love me. We can go away together, start a whole new life, and somehow well figure out how to fix everything so you dont ever have to hide again.

Aiden, what are you talking about?

I have money, she hastened to assure him, enough to last for years if we need it to, and I can start a new business

Chri, slow down. I dont know what gave you the idea Im not Quinten Hawke but I promise you it was the name I was born with and have had all my life.

Aiden shook her head, perplexed. But the mail in your desk was all addressed to Xavier LeRoi. How do you explain that?

Oh my poor darling, he laughed. Is that what this is all about? It all made sense now and he loved her even more for the sacrifices shed been willing to make for him. You thought I was masquerading as Quinten Hawke because I was in some sort of trouble, didnt you?

Wellyes, she answered uncertainly.

And you were going to wipe out your savings so we could go away together even knowing it meant leaving your family behind and possibly bringing down a mountain of trouble on your own shoulders?

I love you, she said simply.

I love you too, chri, much more than you could ever know.

Then tell me the truth, Aiden pleaded. Why the fake name and why are you here, in the middle of nowhere instead of enjoying your life?

Come back to bed and Ill explain everything.

While Aiden gathered up her clothes and set them in one of the chairs, Quin took her overnight bag and briefcase and placed them at the foot of the bed once more. After theyd climbed back into bed, he took a few minutes to indulge in kissing her before launching into his reasons for using the name Xavier LeRoi on his personal bills and business correspondence.

My full name is Quinten Xavier Ferdinand LeRoi Black-Hawke.

Youre kidding, Aiden giggled. It must take you twenty minutes to sign your name!

Which is why I go by Quinten Hawke, or at least I did until the accident. My father had died the year before and I was all my mother had left so she became extremely protective of me while I was lying helpless in the recovery center. She worried herself sick about the media and what lengths theyd go to for my story about the accident so shed registered me under two of my middle names, Xavier LeRoi. She hoped it would buy me the time I needed to heal, which it did.

But why keep the name after you recovered?

Because even though my physical wounds had healed, I wasnt ready to jump back into my life or return to work yet. I just couldnt face all my friends and co-workers knowing some of them still believed Id deliberately wrecked the car so Olivia would lose the baby. Granted, none of them knew the baby wasnt mine but that only made me seem like more of a monster.

Aiden couldnt seem to squash the uneasy feeling something wasnt quite right with his story. Not that she suspected Quin of being dishonest, but the version he was giving her didnt even come close to the ones James and Vivian had given her. For one thing, he couldnt have

been accused of killing Olivia if everyone believed hed died in the wreck too. According to Vivian, there wasnt any suspicion of foul play at all. It had simply been written off as an unfortunate accident.

Another thing preyed on her mind, like the fact his mother had given numerous interviews about the tragic loss of her only son. Maybe it was her way of protecting him. After all, the media wouldnt even be looking for him if they thought he was dead, but how was she going to explain it when Quin decided it was time to rejoin society?

It was possible she hadnt thought that far ahead, but it seemed to Aiden that it would have been a whole lot easier if shed told the gossip mongers that Quin had chosen to recover from his injuries in Europe or something. For now, she tucked those particular concerns away and addressed some other questions she had.

I noticed a lot of the correspondence in your desk was related to business matters with Hawke Corporation.

Youve missed your calling, Quin teased. I think you should have pursued a career as a detective instead of restoring old treasures.

Who knows, I may consider it in the future.

Ill have to remember to keep all my classified papers under lock and key from now on. As for the papers you found already, they do pertain to Hawke Corporation. I still own half of it, but in my absence the C.E.O. took over most of my responsibilities in order to help my mother

out. He was a close friend of my fathers so when Mother asked him fill my shoes for awhile, he readily agreed.

Im a little confused. I mean, I understand why you were using the name Xavier LeRoi in the beginning but why keep that alias when dealing with your own company?

Over a year had passed when I finally decided I was ready to leave this place but Mother didnt feel I could handle the high pressure of my job on top of dealing with all the new gossip that would surface when I returned. She suggested I start out slow and work directly with Elliot Jourdain, the C.E.O., so I could familiarize myself with everything that had taken place since Id been gone.

Of course, now I work with a number of people there but we communicate by phone, fax, and e-mail and none of them knows who I really am. Obviously I couldnt take the chance of putting my real name on anything for fear someone besides Elliot would see it and word would leak out that I was getting involved with the company again.

Tell me something, Quin. All this hiding from the mediawell, it just doesnt seem like thats something youd do, at least not for your own sake.

Youre right, I didn't do it for me but then you already knew that, didnt you?

It wasnt hard to figure out. Dont you everresent that youve lost two years of your life just to spare your mother a little embarrassment? Granted, nobody wants to see their name in one of those sleazy magazines but any intelligent person knows its mostly fabrication anyway.

No, I dont resent it, he said earnestly. Youd have to know my mother to understand how important her status in society is to her. Shes the queen bee and I honestly think it would destroy her if she was subjected to the kind of cruel lies those magazine dish out. Shed be shamed in front of all her friends and associates and never be able to hold her head up again.

Im sorry, Quin, but I think its horrible of her to put her pride ahead of her own sons happiness.

Dont be too hard on her, chri. I honestly believe she was trying to shield me from those vultures at first even if its her own pride shes protecting now. He brushed a kiss to her temple. Itll be morning soon. We should get some sleep.

Aiden snuggled closer. I love you, Quinten Xavier Ferdinand LeRoi Black-Hawke.

She fell asleep with a smile on her lips and the sound of Quins soft laughter warming her heart.

***

Im sorry but I cant, Vivian said when Aiden phoned to see if they could meet for lunch. Im meeting with a client at eleven and Im not sure how long it will last.

Would it be okay if I dropped by your house after work? Theres just so much I have to tell you and I really need your help on figuring some things out.

What things? Aiden, please tell me you didnt go out there alone again.

Well I didnt take the boat out by myself if thats what you mean. Quin met me at the docks by my office and I rode with him.

To his place?

I could hardly invite him back to the Estates, now could I?

This is no time to be audacious, Aiden. I understand your fascination with this man but we havent established who he is yet and until we do, I think it would better if you didnt go out there.

Aiden laughed. Audacious? Now you sound like James. And since when have you become my mother?

Dont be insulting, Vivian said stiffly, Im just worried about you. Since meeting this man you seem to have lost all your good sense.

Maybe I have, she happily admitted, but it feels wonderful and Ive got a whole new perspective on life that I never had before. Im going to make some changes, Viv, big changes that will probably get me exiled from the Lucisano Estates.

Please dont do anything reckless. Aiden, listen to me. This man has you so mixed up youre not thinking rationally. Youre obviously planning on defying your parents, youve totally left your brothers in the dark about this, and youre going to end up hurting James when he finds out why youve been ditching him for the past several days.

You see, thats exactly why I need to talk to you. Youll help me figure out how to let everyone down in a nice way.

I hate it when you do this to me, Vivian groaned.

Its really your own fault for always being so nice and wanting to do the right thing.

Well Im not doing the right thing by keeping your secrets for you, Vivian replied tersely. I feel like Im aiding and abetting or something equally criminal.

Dont worry, she laughed, the Coppers will never get me to squeal on you. Ill rot in jail before I rat out my best friend, live off bread and water, share my cell with a muscular woman named Bertha

Oh, youre impossible, Vivian snapped.

So youll let me come by after work?

Oh, all right. But youll have to talk while I get ready for the charity auction. Which, by the way, you should be attending.

Aiden grimaced. Id forgotten all about it.

Of course you have, Vivian replied succinctly. You seem to have forgotten all your responsibilities lately.

And you seem to have forgotten whose side youre on, she countered.

Youre right, Vivian said with a sigh. This whole situation has me edge and Im worried sick that something bad is going to happen to you.

Nothing bad is going to happen, Viv. I promise you, Im safer with Quin than anywhere on earth.

Safer than with James?

You got me there, she conceded. Well talk more tonight, and just to prove I havent forgotten all my responsibilities Ill go with you to the auction.

After shed hung up, Aiden made a quick call to Quin. Im afraid I wont be able to see you tonight. Vivian just reminded me of a charity auction this evening and Id suffer enormous amounts of guilt if I dont go.

And Id probably suffer enormous amounts of guilt if I asked you to be with me instead.

Somehow I doubt that, Mr. Hawke.

Youre right, Quin chuckled, Im an extremely selfish man when it comes to you. And since Ive already confessed to one undesirable quality I might as well let you know about another. It seems Ive developed a horrible case of separation anxiety.

Hmmmm, sounds serious. I suppose it gets worse the longer were apart.

Much worse.

Its not life threatening is it?

Oh, it definitely could be, Quin said.

This is not good, not good at all. I may have a solution that could be mutuallysatisfying, she said suggestively.

Im intrigued.

WellI do have to attend the auction but it should be over by eleven.

Are you suggesting a midnight rendezvous?

Aiden shivered at the way his deep voice made it sound so deliciously carnal. In a manner of speaking. I thought maybe this time youd like to spend the night at my house.

With the whole Lucisano clan in residence? Oh chri, I can pretty much assure you that would be life threatening.

Not at the Estates, Aiden giggled. I have a small house on the edge of town. I could leave the key on the top of the door frame so you can let yourself in. Id even let you snoop to your hearts content as an atonement for my own transgressions.

Quin had a vision of himself sifting through those sexy lacy underclothes she wore and suddenly the word snooping didnt seem quite as repulsive as it had in the past. He could pick a nice bottle of wine from his cellar and have it chilling when she came home. Theyd sit and talk for a while and then afterwards shed lead him to her bedroom where hed slowly peel off one piece of clothing at a time. He could almost hear those soft mewling sounds she made in the

back of her throat and it sent an ache to his groin that was so strong he wasnt sure he could wait until tonight to see her.

Ill be there, he said huskily.

Aiden gave him the address and directions and promised to come home right after the auction. It warmed her heart to know he couldnt wait to see her but it was the thought of walking through her door and being greeted with one of those bone melting kisses that sent the warmth surging due south. She was still tingling with anticipation when she closed up the boutique late that afternoon and headed off to Vivians.

***

Heres what Ive compiled so far. Vivian handed Aiden a large manila envelope and grabbed her robe. You read while I take a quick shower and well talk about it when I get out.

Aiden sat down on Vivians bed and dumped the contents of the envelope in front her. There were quite a few printed copies of newspaper and tabloid magazine articles which she placed in one stack before sifting through the rest. She found some papers with Hawke Corporation across the top and was impressed to see that Vivian had somehow managed to get two full lists of employees; one from three years ago when Quin was President working under his own name and one from just a few weeks ago.

Aiden ran her finger down the list of names and let out a jubilant laugh when she came across Xavier LeRoi, Assistant C.E.O. right beneath the corporations current C.E.O., Elliot Jourdain. No doubt it was Vivians intention to prove to her that Quin was not listed among the

employees, instead shed unwittingly given Aiden the ammunition she needed to prove just the opposite. She was even more excited to find a copy of Quins birth certificate with his whole name printed on it, just one more piece of evidence to show Viv.

Behind Quins birth certificate was Olivias. Shed only been twenty-nine when she died and Aiden couldnt help wondering what had happened in this womans short life to make her so cold and unfeeling. Both their death certificates were also included, along with copies of the autopsy reports. How in the world had Vivian gotten her hands on them?

Aidens stomach lurched when she picked up the report on Olivia and saw the marks made by the examiner on the drawing. It was nothing more than an outline of the female body, but there were lines and xs pinpointing the injuries Olivia had sustained. Most of them were on her head but there were lacerations pretty much everywhere from where the glass had cut her as she flew through the windshield.

According to the Coroners examination, Olivia had almost three times the legal amount of alcohol in her body when she died. Cause of death was listed as blunt force trauma to the cranium and was ruled an accident. Aiden had been right about one thing; there never had been any suspicion cast on Quin for his wifes death. Shed never met the woman and wouldnt have liked her if she had, but a lump the size of a boulder lodged itself in her throat when she read the part where Olivia had been five weeks pregnant.

Aiden reached for what could only be a fake autopsy report on Quin and couldnt help feeling a little hostile towards his mother for her role in staging his death. She held it in her hands, studying the drawing for several minutes before reading the report. Considering it was a

work of fiction to begin with, she shouldnt have been shocked by the horrible wounds theyd inflicted on the phantom Quin. Broken neck, ruptured spleen, several fractures in both arms and legs; in other words, fatal injuries.

But what she found even more curious was that the Coroner had put Quins blood alcohol content at zero. She distinctly remembered him saying hed had a couple glasses of wine before theyd left, and while that couldnt have registered very high there should have been at least some alcohol in his blood stream. Of course it only stood to reason that if Camilla Hawke had gone to all the trouble of bribing the medical examiner to file a phony death certificate, she certainly wouldnt want them to include the fact that her son had consumed even the smallest quantity of alcohol that night.

Aiden set the report aside with a heavy sigh. She was in one hell of a quandary that was for sure. How could she tell Quin his mother was involved in something so shady or even hope to help him understand why Camilla had done it when Aiden didnt have the faintest idea herself? Shed bet her life he had no idea he was supposed to be dead. No, his mother had convinced Quin the reason he needed to stay secluded deep in the bayou was because hed been charged with second degree murder. And shed kept him in hiding because she couldnt risk having Quin seen in public after shed convinced the world he was dead.

Aiden was just reading one of the newspaper articles on the accident when she heard Vivian shut the shower off. There was a picture of Olivia with her arm looped through Quins at some social function just a few months earlier. In spite of everything hed told her, a twinge of jealousy pierced her heart when she looked into Olivias smiling face. Quin was devastatingly handsome in a dark suit and tie, and even to Aidens eyes they seemed to be a happy couple.

Well? Vivian said as she floated past Aiden on the way to her closet. Have I provided enough information to convince you the man youve been seeing isnt Quinten Hawke?

On the contrary, my dear Watson, she replied dramatically as she swept up the employee records and Quins birth certificate.

Vivian dressed while Aiden gave her a summary of everything shed discovered. Reluctant to believe in such an outrageous tale, Vivian at last conceded that it was possible Xavier LeRoi was actually Quin. She was completely mortified by the idea that his own mother would have contrived to fake his death without him knowing because there didnt seem to be any logical explanation for doing it.

Its just morbid, Viv said as she sat down at the vanity to fix her hair. What kind of mother tries to convince everyone her son is dead? I suppose its possible she didnt think he was going to recover from his injuries, but why announce he was dead before he really was?

Aiden shook her head. Quin said he broke both his legs and had internal injuries but he didnt say anything about the injuries being so severe he almost died. None of it makes sense. I hate to think the worst of Camilla when its so obvious Quin has her on a pedestal, but how could anyone defend her actions?

Vivian put the final touches on her hair and reached for her shoes. Personally, I think the woman has a screw loose. And poor Quin, how is he going to feel when he finds out she told everyone he died? I certainly dont envy you the task of telling him, not if he thinks as highly of his mother as you say he does.

Aiden started gathering up the papers and stuffing them back in the envelope. I dont think Im going to tell him. Hed only hate me for being the one to disillusion him about Camilla and then Id lose him for good. No, if hes going to learn about the awful things shes done hes going to learn it from her. Itll come out soon enough when he decides to go back to work at Hawke Corp

Vivian glanced up when Aiden suddenly stopped talking. What is it? She finished putting her shoes on and hurried to the bed where Aiden sat frozen with one of the papers in her hand. What are you looking at? Did you find something new? Aiden, for crying out loud say something!

A cold chill twisted its way through her body as she handed Vivian the Coroners report on Quin. It cant be a coincidence, she said in a hushed tone.

Vivian scanned the report. What cant be a coincidence? I dont see

The signature. Aiden squeezed her eyes shut. Read the name of the Medical Examiner, his signature is on the last page.

Vivian flipped to the last page. Theodore Jourdain. She glanced over at Aiden who had gone deathly pale. I dont understand. Do you know him?

Aiden shook her head as she thumbed through the papers and pulled out the list of employees for Hawke Corporation and handed it to Vivian. Quin told me the C.E.O. was a close friend of his fathers who jumped in and took over Quins job at Camillas request.

Vivians eyes widened. Elliot Jourdainoh my God, if youre thinking what Im thinking

Theodore and Elliot are related, Aiden finished for her.

You dont think Camilla and Elliot are having an affair, do you?

Why else would he get one of his relatives to risk their career by signing a false autopsy report and death certificate?

But why would any of them do such a horrible thing?

Aidens expression hardened. Im not sure. Maybe they wanted Quin out of the corporation so they could run it they way wanted to. Maybe Camilla didnt want to share her spot light as the driving force behind such a successful business. Who knows? The point is they did it knowing how crushed Quin would be when he found out, and that is simply unforgivable.

Vivian eyed her friend with a worried frown. I know that look, Aiden. Just what are you planning on doing?

She took the papers from Vivian and put them back in the envelope then stood up, squaring her shoulders determinedly. Im tired of playing guessing games. Theres only one person who has all the answers and thats Camilla Hawke.

You cant! Oh Aiden, you simply cant go to someone as powerful as Camilla and accuse her of plotting against her own son.

Aiden arched a brow. Oh, yeah? Watch me.

Chapter 12
Aiden hurried through the front door, dropping her purse and the manila envelope on the dining room table as she flew by on her way to the bedroom. Even if she only took a quick shower and didnt wash her hair, shed still be a good thirty minutes late. It wouldnt matter that much; the first forty-five minutes was designated as a meet and greet so shed still have about fifteen minutes to spare before the auction began.

She took the fastest shower in history then chose a pale blue sundress with matching shoes that was chic but not too upscale. The charity auction wasnt a fancy affair by any means but this particular event catered to the wealthy so she couldnt very well show up in blue jeans. After retrieving the spare house key from her jewelry box, Aiden dashed out of her room, scooping up her purse on the way out.

Her stomach did a little flip when she stood on her toes to place the key on the top of the door frame. She hoped the evening would go fast because she was dying to see Quin. She wanted to make this night special so that no matter what happened after he found out what his mother had done, hed know he had someone to turn to, someone who loved him and would always be there for him.

Aiden was glad it was a short drive to the convention hall where the auction was taking place. She didnt want to think about the talk she was going to have with her parents or the heartbreaking one she needed to have with James. And she especially didnt want to think of the confrontation she was going to have with Camilla Hawke; the one where shed demand that

Camilla explain why shed fabricated the story about Quins death and then give her the choice of confessing it to Quin herself or face the consequences when Aiden broke the news to him.

The convention hall was alive with activity by the time she arrived. It seemed everyone with a bottomless bank account was there, including her own parents. Aiden dodged that particular bullet by slinking along the wall on the opposite side of the room, which was a great plan in theory except that while she was keeping an eye on them, she ran right into her brothers. Four mountains surrounded her, each of them looking as if they wanted to strangle her with their bare hands.

I thought we agreed you werent going to pull anymore disappearing acts, Christof rebuked her.

Well, I

Do you have any idea how dangerous it is to go trolling through the swamp alone? Enzio fired at her.

Of course, but

Gastone jumped on the band wagon. And to meet up with a man we know nothing about. Have you lost your mind, Aiden?

Hes not who you think he is, Vincente added his two cents. We checked out the name you gave Christof and found out that he

Died over two years ago, Aiden finished for him.

Christof looked like he was about to explode. You knew he was using a fake name and yet you still went to see him last night?

Its not what you think. Look, I dont have time to explain right now but I promise you he is Quinten Hawke.

Aiden was trapped in the middle with no hope of escape as they all started talking at once. She kept her lips pressed firmly together, stubbornly refusing to respond while they were bombarding her with reprimands for her behavior and threatening to find Quin and beat the truth out of him. Not that she doubted theyd do it if they found him before she could explain, but she wasnt concerned about that happening tonight.

She'd wait until they calmed down then give them her solemn promise to go straight home, which of course was exactly what shed do. One of them would follow her and see that she got inside then report back to the others that shed kept her promise. Tomorrow shed get them all together to show them the papers Vivian had given her and explain everything. Once they knew the truth, theyd probably even help her figure out the best way to coax Camilla into confessing.

Are you finished? She asked when they finally stopped lecturing long enough for her to speak.

Not even close, Enzio ground out. If you think were just going to stand by and let some predator take advantage of our little sister then you obviously dont know any of us as well as you think you do.

Aiden was about to launch into a plea for them to wait until she could explain everything before condemning Quin when she was saved by the Auctioneers announcement that the bidding was about to begin. She took advantage of the momentary distraction to slip between Gaston and Christof then disappeared into the crowd of people moving towards the seats before any of her brothers got the chance to stop her.

She saw her mother and father taking their seats in the front row and ducked behind a tall man to avoid being seen. Aiden leaned to the side and peeked around his broad shoulders and was glad to see that not only were her parents now seated with their backs to her, all four of her brothers occupied the seats next to them. She made the decision to leave a sizeable donation instead of staying for the auction and to make her escape while she had the chance. It was at that precise moment that the tall man turned around and she found herself peering into James Champagnes handsome face.

Aiden, Im so glad you made it. Vivian said youd be here and I was hoping to run into you before the auction started so we could sit together.

He leaned down and brushed a kiss to her cheek before curling an arm around her waist and whisking her down the aisle. There wasnt much Aiden could do but take the seat beside him only two rows behind her entire family. As she politely answered his questions about how she was feeling and whether business was good, she was very much aware of the speculative looks being cast their way. To make matters worse, James draped his arm across the back of her chair making them look even more like a couple.

Aiden casually glanced around to see if anyone had noticed then let out an audible sigh when she saw that everyones attention was focused on the stage where the hostess was explaining whose estate the items up for bid had come from. Her eyes slowly migrated back to the podium and the woman who was playing hostess for the evening. She looked vaguely familiar but Aiden was having trouble matching the face to a name when James leaned towards her and whispered in her ear.

I wish I would have known she was hosting the event tonight. If I had, I would have convinced Vivian not to come.

Her brows drew together. Why should Viv care whos hosting the auction?

Dont you know who that is? Thats Quentin Hawkes mother, Camilla.

Aiden drew in a ragged breath of air. Holy mother of God, when it rained it poured, and she had the sinking feeling there was one hell of a storm on the way!

***

Quin let himself into Aidens house shortly before ten oclock. He took a few minutes to explore the rooms on the first floor before taking the stairs to check out the rooms above. One spare bedroom, a room designated for working on some smaller antique pieces, and a much larger room that contained a four poster bed that had a few articles of clothes on top of it. She must have been running late for the auction because that was the only thing out of order in an otherwise pristine bedroom.

Quin stopped in the center of the room and filled his lungs with her scent. Oh boy, did he have it bad. Just being in her room, surrounded by Aidens personal things made his head spin. He did a slow turn, taking in the large antique armoire and the sitting area which consisted of two overstuffed armchairs and a round coffee table.

The house was modest in size but the furnishings were expensive so she obviously hadnt been exaggerating about having a lot of money. More proof of that came in the form of the designer label clothes and shoes that filled her closet. At least he never had to worry that she was only after him for his enormous wealth as Olivia had been.

He entertained himself for a few more minutes by shuffling through her top drawer. It contained all kinds of lacy feminine undergarments but the fantasies about having her put them on only so he could strip them off again was putting a decided strain on his zipper so he reluctantly closed the drawer. Quin wandered back downstairs to grab the bottle of wine hed left on the small stand in the foyer so he could put it on ice and have it nice and chilled by the time Aiden got home.

It was on his way back from the kitchen that he spotted the large manila envelope that shed tossed on the dining room table. Curiosity made him draw closer but it was the name scrawled across the front that made him pick it up. He lowered himself down onto one of the chairs and pried the flap open then dumped the contents on the table. A mule kick to the chest couldnt have hurt more than seeing how diligent shed been in gathering information about him.

Something dark and ugly twisted inside of him when he recalled how Aiden had stood there and sworn that she trusted him. Was this trust? He flipped the envelope over and noted the embossed return address in the corner; Vivian Demarais, Research Attorney. So Aiden had her friend Vivian checking him out the entire time. Was it idle curiosity that drove her to it or had she been interested in his financial worth after all? His eyes wandered around the room. Was she living beyond her means and decided she needed a man who could keep her in the lifestyle she desired?

Quin turned his attention back to the papers in front of him but none of them contained financial statements of any kind. If it wasnt his money she was after, why was she prying so deep into his past? Why not just ask him what she wanted to know? He went back through the papers more carefully this time and nearly choked when he ran across a death certificate with his name on it. His fingers were a little unsteady as he plucked it from the pile and scanned the form before letting it float back down onto table.

There was an autopsy report as well, one that detailed a multitude of injuries hed never sustained. Quin tilted his head curiously and reread the information at the top of the form. Except for his name, the personal data was wrong. Oh, it was close enough that anyone else skimming it might not have noticed but he certainly did. According to the form, the man whose body was brought in dead on arrival was two inches shorter than Quin with dark brown hair, not black. He was also thirteen pounds heavier and had a scar on his abdomen where surgery was performed to remove his appendix.

Quin set the report aside and picked up one of the newspaper articles. He was utterly floored to discover his mother had been quoted and even more disturbed to find several more

interviews had been conducted, some of them with the very gossip magazines shed claimed to be protecting him from. A deep, burning anger began to boil up inside him. He was furious with Aiden but not just because shed dug up all this information about him but because shed known about the death certificate and his mothers obvious willing participation in the whole sham and had chosen not to tell him.

As for his mother, Quin couldnt even begin to fathom why shed do such a thing. She had more money than she could spend in five lifetimes so controlling the business assets or getting her hands on his life insurance policy werent tangible reasons for faking his death. It was just as apparent to him that Elliot Jourdain was involved somehow because his son, Theodore, had been the chief medical examiner and had signed off on the autopsy and death certificate. It didnt make sense, but it would soon, he vowed to himself.

Quin shuffled all the papers together and shoved them back inside the envelope. There was still about twenty minutes left before the auction ended and the convention hall was a good fifteen minutes away even if he hauled ass. At least hed taken his motorcycle out of storage and driven to Aidens place instead of walking as hed originally planned. With any luck hed catch her before she left and get the truth out of her if it killed him. Once he was done with her, hed pay a little surprise visit to his mother and see what she had to say for herself.

He was still shaking with rage when he mounted his bike and headed into town. At this point he didnt care who saw him or what they overheard, to hell with all of them. Hed been betrayed by the two women he loved most in the world and one way or another he was going to get to the bottom of this. Maybe he was a fool for wanting to believe it was all just a horrible

misunderstanding, that Vivian had gone out on her own and investigated him because of her concern for Aiden.

It was possible Aiden hadnt known about any of it until tonight. That would certainly explain the careless way shed tossed the envelope on the table, especially after shed given him the okay to snoop. A dark scowl began to form on his face as he veered onto the main road leading to the convention hall.

No, she had to have known about the faked death, otherwise why would she even have questioned whether Quinten Hawke was his real name or not? Shed probably assumed hed been in on it and was scheming to blackmail him but had to reconsider her plan when he openly admitted he was using a different name.

Anger and frustration and the sting of deception from both Aiden and his mother balled into one volatile emotion. Hadnt he been through enough already Olivia? Was every woman in his life determined to bring him to his knees by ripping his heart to shreds? He should have stayed away from Aiden as hed originally planned. He should have yanked her off his porch the day hed found her waiting for him and dragged her ass down to her boat and ordered her to leave him the hell alone.

But even through the haze of his fury he acknowledged shed already captured his heart by then and he couldnt have stopped what happened between them if hed tried.

Quin circled the parking lot and found Aidens car near the back. He found a space just down from hers and parked his bike then strode purposefully toward the front of the building where a few people had already started to straggle out. Inside, there were hordes of them just

milling around and after panning the crowd for several minutes without any sign of her, Quin was beginning to think it would be better to wait outside by her car. Hed almost made up his mind to leave when he caught sight of her curly golden locks as she was being led away from him by another man.

Quins nostrils flared when he noted the familiar way his old acquaintance, James Champagne, curled his arm around Aidens waist. He kept his eyes locked on James as he wormed his way through the crowd, the jealous rage inside of him spiking dangerously as the couple angled away from the throng and disappeared around the corner.

The hallway theyd taken was deserted except for the two of them and even from where he was standing he could tell the conversation was of a personal nature. James had his back to Quin and was blocking Aidens view so she didnt see him as he entered the corridor and stopped not three feet behind them.

It seems like its been ages since weve been alone, James said.

I know and Im sorry, James. I feel awful for canceling our dates but so much has happened this past week that I need to talk to you about, I hardly know where to begin.

I should have made more of an effort to see you, he claimed part of the blame. Aidenwe need to talk about the wedding. When I asked you to marry me James whirled around when he heard the low, animalistic growl coming from behind him.

Marry you, Quin roared, his eyes moving from James to Aidens startled face. Youre engaged to him? The whole time youve been sleeping with me you were planning on marrying another man?

Aiden shook her head, a strangled gurgling sound catching in her throat, preventing the words of denial from forming. Beside her, James seemed just as speechless as she was as he faced the menacing form of a man he believed had died over two years ago.

Quinten? James said tentatively. He shook his head as if he could dispel the apparition before him then turned to look at Aiden. It was you? Youre the friend Vivian was talking about?

James, II can explain

Im sure wed both love to hear this one, Quin said with a bitter laugh.

From somewhere down the hall, she heard a tiny squeak and then the sharp click of heels against the tiled floor as Vivian rushed towards them. Aiden could only gape in horror as the massive frames of the four Lucisano brothers followed Vivian, their heavy footsteps echoing off the walls.

She glanced behind her, frantic to find an escape route but the doors at the end of the hall were chained shut. She looked back at Quin who was so angry his whole body was shaking with it. One hand was balled into a fist but the other was clutching the manila envelope shed stupidly left on the table.

Her eyes flew to Viv who had placed herself between James and Quin as if she could somehow shield James from Quins wraith. It must have finally sunk in that Quin wasnt a ghost and that he presented some danger because James reached out for Vivian and tucked her close by his side, his eyes daring Quin to make a move.

Aiden felt an insane desire to laugh because it was so painfully obvious that James had found the love with Vivian that he hadnt been able to find with her. She had only one fleeting moment to feel happy for them before her brothers came to an abrupt halt right behind Quin, effectively forming a blockade across the width of the hall.

Quin turned around with a broad grin on his face and the devil in his eyes. If youve come to save your sisters virtue youre a little too late. He nodded towards James. It seems shes been heating up the sheets with good ole James here then high tailing it over to my place for a few extra rounds.

No! She cried. Quin, its not true

Stay where you are, James said sharply when Aiden tried to get past him.

Shocked by the uncharacteristic harshness in his tone, Aiden stood frozen in place as James joined her brothers who were slowly closing a circle around Quin. This wasnt happening, she told herself. She was having a nightmare that was all; any minute now shed wake up and find herself curled up beside Quin with his arms wrapped protectively around her. Hed brush his fingers through her hair and tell her everything was all right, that she was safe, and that hed never let anyone hurt her. It was Vivian who snapped her back to reality by gripping her arm and giving her a good, hard shake.

We have to do something, Vivian sobbed. Aiden, theyre going to kill him unless we d-do s-something.

Aiden pulled her arm free and surged forward, shouting at them to stop but none of them even glanced back at her. From inside the circle, she could hear Quin baiting them, telling them to do their best and in her heart she knew he wanted them to have a go at him. He was inviting the physical pain because he believed it would alleviate the deep emotional wounds she was personally responsible for inflicting. Tears were streaming down her face as she tried to fight her way between Enzio and Christof.

Leave him alone, she screamed at Enzio, who was attempting to control her flailing arms. I love him, I love him, Aiden cried out as she was dragged away.

A horrendous boom that sounded like a clap of thunder reverberated off the walls and sent a shudder of fear racing up her spine. Aiden stopped struggling and was both surprised and relieved to see James and her brothers had also stopped their advance on Quin.

Swiping the tears from her eyes cleared her vision enough to see there were several policemen standing shoulder to shoulder in front of the entrance to the hallway. Theyd essentially created a blue wall which prevented the people still in the convention center from seeing what was going on. But it wasnt the appearance of police officers that made everyone rein in their heated tempers, but the presence of something far more ominous.

Aiden seized her chance to break free when Enzios hold on her loosened. She hauled her arm forward then rammed her elbow into his solar plexus and made a mad dash for the small gap between James and Christof. Confusion flickered across Quins face when she darted

through the hole and launched herself at him as if he didnt understand why she was even still there. But the moment her body collided with his, Quin locked her in his arms and held on tight.

What the hell is going on here? The clap of the thunder sounded again.

Demetrio Lucisano didnt even break stride as he approached the small army of men surrounding Quin. Just as the sea parted for Moses, his sons and James stepped aside so he could see for himself. For a moment, he simply stared at the man who was holding his daughters trembling body against him as if he was willing to take on the world in order to protect her.

Their eyes met in a fierce battle for dominance for several intense minutes before Demetrio gave a slight nod of his head. This was a man who wouldnt back down to anyone and Demetrio gave him the respect he deserved.

Is this your son? He asked without turning around.

Camilla Hawke stepped forward, her complexion as pallid as a newly bleached sheet. To Aidens surprise her own mother was right beside Camilla, urging her forward and offering her support. She was taller than Giselle and held herself as regally as a queen; as well she should because Camilla was strikingly beautiful.

Her shiny black hair was swept up in a flattering chignon with a few spiraling curls framing her face and the rose colored dress she wore hugged an hourglass figure. She had the same dark eyes as Quin and as she drew closer, Aiden could see the shimmer of tears.

Quinten her voice cracked, and though everyone waited for her to say something more, she remained silent.

Demetrio glanced around at the hostile faces of Quin and James and his sons. He took in the frightened look in Vivians eyes and the tear-stained cheeks of his daughter. Camilla Hawkes expression was haunted, and his own wifeshe simply looked as confused as he felt. He wanted answers and he wanted them now, but this was not the time or place.

Its late, he finally said, but I think its safe to assume that none of us will get any sleep tonight unless we sort out whats gone on here. If there are no objections, I think we should meet back at my house where we can be more comfortable and perhaps avoid providing the whole town with enough gossip to last a year.

Aiden let her arms slip from around Quins neck to rest on his chest. I want to go with you, she said so softly no one else could possibly have heard, yet Christof stepped forward and placed his hand firmly on her shoulder.

Youll ride with me, he said in a tone that left no room for argument.

Quin looked down at Aiden, suddenly overwhelmed by the enormity of his love for her. Have you ever ridden on a motorcycle, chri?

Aidens smile could have rivaled the sun on the brightest summer day at that moment. No, but Im not afraid.

Shell ride with me, Quin said, glancing pointedly at the hand on Aidens shoulder.

To her knowledge, Christof had only backed down to one man in his life. Maybe it was because Quin used the same tone hed used or maybe it was the way she looked at her brother,

silently pleading with him to let her go. Christof hesitated for a moment then removed his hand and turned to follow the others down the hall.

Quin kept her close by his side as they took up the rear and it wasnt until they reached the end of the corridor that she realized the only ones who still remained at the convention center were Giovanni and a few of her fathers security team. The night air was warm but there was a light breeze and it felt good against her face as they all walked silently to the parking lot.

Her parents insisted that Camilla have her driver follow them so she could ride in their car, and after offering one feeble protest she climbed in the back of her fathers limousine with Giovanni acting as chauffer. Vivian and James had driven separately, but Aiden noticed him leading her towards his car so she assumed they meant to ride together. While the boys all drifted off to their own vehicles, Quin steered her towards the back of the parking lot where hed parked his bike.

They hadnt said a word the entire time but when she stopped beside the bike, Quin took her face in his hands and lowered his mouth to hers. It was the sweetest thing shed ever known; having his lips pressed to hers, tasting him, touching him, breathing in the masculine scent of his skin.

Were going to be okay, arent we? She asked when he lifted his head.

Yes, chri, he said softly, I believe we are.

Chapter 13
Aiden experienced a moment of panic when Quin helped her off the bike and she realized he no longer had the envelope with all the information Vivian had gathered. Without it, how could she force Camilla to admit what shed done, or prove that Elliot and Theodore Jourdain were involved? Of course she no longer needed proof Quin was who he said he was, not with Camilla here but without those papers

Stop worrying, Quin told her as he took Aidens hand and followed the stone pathway up to the house.

I cant help it. Everyone is mad at me for one reason or another, my brothers want to throttle you, your mother probably wishes she wasnt so much of a lady so she could pull my hair out by the roots, and you think Ive been hopping from James bed to yours and back again.

Quin stopped short and pulled her into his arms. Im sorry for what I said back there. I felt like Id been broadsided when I heard James say he needed to talk about the wedding so I lashed out at you.

I never said Id marry him, Quin. You have to believe me.

But he did ask you.

Yes, butit wasnt a conventional proposal. James wanted a wife and he believed I fit the bill. He thought in time wed grow to love each other and for awhile I thought it might be possible to make it work. I was trying to please my parents and then I was trying to please James. And then I met you.

Quin chuckled. It wasnt exactly love at first sight, was it?

Aiden grinned. Not exactly, but even when you and I were sparring with each other there was something there, something that James and I never had and never could have obtained.

But you never told him about us or that you didnt want to marry him.

There hasnt been much time. Ive ditched poor James twice this week so I could be with you. And just for the record, I never slept with him.

I know, he said as he propelled her towards the house.

But you said

I know what I said. It was cruel and Im sorry. I knew I wasnt your first, but it was pretty obvious you hadnt been with anyone for quite some time.

I was that bad, huh?

Quin leaned down and kissed her. You were amazing.

Aiden nodded towards the door. Its not too late to run away with me.

And miss seeing the look of joy on your brothers faces when your father gives us his blessing? Not a chance.

They found everyone gathered in the great room where Mirella had already served her mother and Camilla hot tea. Her brothers, she noticed, had gone straight for the bar though

theyd opted for wine in place of the harder liquor. No doubt, her father had something to do with that since he knew whiskey tended to buoy their tempers rather than mellow them.

While her brothers stuck together by the bar, James and Vivian had seated themselves on one of the loveseats but were carefully maintaining some space between them, and her father was standing by the open French doors staring out at the flower gardens. All of them turned to look at her and Quin when they walked in.

Demetrio crossed the room to stand behind the sofa Giselle and Camilla were occupying. Now that were all here, Id like everyone to take a seat.

It wasnt a request and Aiden had to hide her smile when each of her brothers reluctantly complied. There were two sofas and two loveseats arranged around a large, square coffee table and since sitting on the remaining sofa meant sharing it with one of her brothers, Aiden chose the loveseat. Quin lowered his large frame down beside her and immediately looped his arm around her waist.

The tension was thick, which rattled her jittery nerves even more because it was only a matter of minutes before shed have to take center stage and start explaining how this whole mess came about. Her parents were going to be horribly disappointed when she formally announced she wasnt going to marry James, though they had to be blind if they hadnt figured it out by now. Her brothers were already furious so it wouldnt sit very well with them either, especially since theyd checked James out and all agreed he was just the kind of man theyd like to see her settle down with.

James and Vivian were probably the only ones who wouldnt see her union with Quin as a bad thing because it meant they could pursue their own blossoming relationship. Her eyes wandered over to Camilla who was as rigid as a stone statue. She certainly wasnt going to appreciate Aidens hand in exposing the wrong shed done to her own son and there was a good chance Quin would harbor some resentment towards her as well. She just couldnt see how all of this going to work out.

Now, Demetrio said as his gaze moved from face to face, who wants to go first?

Why dont you start with Hawke, Enzio shot Quin a blistering glare. Have him explain why he faked his own death and how he can sit there without an ounce of remorse after the way he took advantage of Aiden.

He didnt take advantage of me, she gritted.

Christof scowled at both of them. He made you sleep with him when you were half out of your mind after getting lost in the swamp.

Giselle let out a small gasp at the same time a low growl rumbled from between her fathers clenched teeth. It wasnt like that and you know it, she said to Christof before turning to her parents. Quin saved my life.

Aiden faced them; her parents and Quins mother. She told them how confused shed been about marrying James and the reason shed taken the boat out. She told them everything; how frightened shed been, how alone shed felt, how angry shed been at Quin for kissing her and then sending her away. Aidens voice softened when his arm tightened around her.

Even when I thought hed lied to me about his name I didnt believe hed lied about how he felt for me. Im sorry if Ive disappointed you. She turned to James then. And Im sorry for being dishonest with you because youre a wonderful man and you didnt deserve to be treated that way, but II

Followed your heart, Quin finished for her.

Giselle gave her daughter a disproving shake of her head. So your impulsiveness has cost you a good marriage with a man who couldnt be dishonest if he tried and you traded it in for what, Aiden?

Happiness, James shocked them all by jumping to her defense. And love, if Aidens actions back at the convention center are anything to judge by. He looked over at Vivian, whose adoration shone through her eyes, then reached over and took her hand before turning back to Giselle. When I asked Aiden to marry me, I believed it would work and that in time there would be mutual love and respect but now I know how wrong I was.

Because she betrayed you, Giselle said with an accusatory glance at Aiden.

No, James replied. She didnt betray me, but she would haveif shed married me knowing she didnt love me, and she would have betrayed herself too.

Giselle visibly bristled. Youre an honorable man, James, but you dont need to defend Aidens selfish behavior by pretending shes done you a favor.

Was it honorable of me to try and persuade Aiden to marry me when I knew she was only considering it to please you? The truth is she did do me a favor because Ive discovered

that waiting for the right person to come along can mean the difference between a mediocre existence and one that makes you feel as if youre on top of the world. Aiden couldnt help falling in love with Quinten any more than I He stopped and looked at Vivian and then at Aiden.

Say it, Aiden prompted.

Any more than I could help falling in love with Vivian, James said proudly.

Vivian? Giselle looked as if shed just been slapped in the face. No offense, she said to Vivian, but youve always been such a quiet little wallflower, and now to find out youve stolen my daughters fiancwell, she huffed, I hardly know what to say.

Vivians cheeks turned a bright scarlet. They were never engaged, Mrs. Lucisano, and I didnt steal James away from Aiden. It justhappened.

That seems to be the excuse of the evening, Giselle said icily. Everything just happened, so of course theres no one to blame.

We didnt get everyone together to place blame, Demetrio lightly chastised her. Were here so we can resolve the issues that have arisen over the past week. With that in mind, I think weve taken care of the subject of marriage between James and Aiden. Obviously they both have feelings for someone else so I think its time we move on.

If you insist, Giselle said stiffly.

I do, and now that we have that settled Demetrio glanced around at his sons. I assume your lack of self control back at the convention center had to do with your desire to protect Aiden from a man you considered a threat to her personal safety, is that accurate?

What else could we think? Christof replied with open hostility. He kept luring her back to his hideaway and Aiden was so obsessed with being with him it didnt matter how much danger she put herself in.

And we still havent gotten an explanation as to why he faked his death, Enzio added.

He had nothing to do with that, Camilla finally spoke up. There was a heavy sadness in her eyes when she looked at Quin. Im so sorry for everything Ive put you through. There was a horrible mix up at the hospital and I was so distraught because I blamed myself, and then afterwards I didnt know how to fix it

Its okay, Quin said gently. What happened is in the past now and we need to move on, but youre not making much sense. He gave her an encouraging smile. Just take it slow and start from the beginning.

Camilla nodded then began again. I blamed myself for the accident. You seethe week before, Olivia came to see me. She was such a vile creature, telling me the only reason she married you was for your money and to get back at me for looking down my nose at her. She said she was pregnant but that it wasnt your baby and for twenty thousand dollars shed have an abortion. I refused, of course. I didnt want to be responsible for taking a childs life no matter who shed conceived it with.

You should have told me, Quin said.

I know. Maybe if I had, none of this would have happened. As it was, Olivia got angry. She said she was tired of the way you treated her, as if she was a contagious disease that you couldnt stand to be near. She wanted out but she didnt want it to drag on for months so she offered to divorce you and said she wouldnt ask for anything except the things shed acquired during the marriage. With one stipulation; I had to write her a check for seven hundred and fifty thousand dollars.

Quin didnt bat an eyelash. It would have been worth it.

I realize that now, Camilla said, looking even more miserable than before. It wasnt about the money, it was folding to blackmail that made me balk. She gave me one week to make a decision and then she said shed go to the tabloids and tell them about the baby. I didnt know what to do. I was almost out of time when the accident happened.

Camillas eyes misted with tears. When I got the call, they told methey told me youd both died. Apparently, there were two accidents that night, both of them involving a male and female, and they occurred within minutes of each other. You were all taken to the same hospital but somehow your personal things got mixed up with his. This other man and his wife both had injuries more severe than yours and since they didnt have enough surgeons available to handle all of you, they transported you to another hospital. He died on the operating table without ever regaining consciousness.

But you identified the body, Quin said. How could you not know your own son?

Quinten, please try to understand. Id just been told my son was dead and Id already identified Olivias body. The man they took me to see had sustained severe head injuries and theyd shave off most of his hair. He was the right height and build and they told me hed been driving your car. I barely looked at him before I collapsed and then I only told them it was you because I couldnt bear the thought of seeing you like that again.

Aidens heart went out to the woman but there was still some questions unanswered. Mrs. Hawkewhy didnt you say anything once you realized Quin was still alive? Why would you do all those interviews with the newspapers and gossip magazines? And why would you tell Quin hed been charged with second degree murder?

I didnt know, Camilla said. For three agonizing days I thought Quinten was dead. I was worried someone would find out the baby Olivia was carrying wasnt his so I granted all the interviews to keep them from thinking there was anything to hide. By the time I discovered thered been a mix up and Quinten was still alive, every news media for miles around had covered the story.

It was Giselle who voiced what everyone else was thinking. So you let them continue to think your son was dead to save yourself a little embarrassment?

Camilla shook her head vehemently. No, noit wasnt like that. I got scared. I thought if I suddenly announced Quinten was alive, there really would be speculation as to why Id waited until after Olivia had been buried to tell anyone. So I waited. I thought the babys father would come forward and try to blackmail me but he never did. Either she never told him or it never occurred to him to demand money for his silence.

You could have told me all of this, Quin said, unable to hide the resentment he felt. Instead you let me believe Id been accused of killing Olivia.

Camilla drew in a shaky breath. I didnt lie about that either, at least not intentionally. The other mans wife passed away within a few hours of being admitted, and it was her sister that claimed hed driven the car off the embankment on purpose. She said theyd been arguing all night and hed told his wife that if she even thought of leaving him, hed kill her first and then himself.

So they actually charged him, not me, Quin said.

Yes, but it wasnt until after Id told you about it that the police figured out they were going after the wrong man and dropped the charges. QuintenI know it was wrong to let you continue to think theyd charged you but it was the only thing I could think of to make you go away for a little while.

Two years isnt a little while, Aiden said sharply.

But thats all I intended for it to be. A few months at the most but then Quinten seemedcontent to stay where he was and as the days and weeks passed by it just got easier and easier to make up excuses as to why he shouldnt come back. I was ashamed of what Id done and I couldnt face Quinten or the press.

Aiden understood all too well how one small fib could snowball all to hell. What about Elliot and Theodore Jourdain, what role did they play in all this?

Camillas eyes widened. H-how did you find about them?

Quin chuckled. Shes an aspiring detective.

Im not, Aiden nudged him with her shoulder. I wanted to find out why Quin had hidden himself away and just happened to notice your C.E.O. had the same last name as the medical examiner who signed off on the autopsy and death certificate.

Im afraid I have to take the blame for that too, Camilla admitted. Elliot went with me to the hospital but he wasnt with me when I identified Quintens body. When he found out Id collapse he asked his son, Theo, to wrap it up as quickly as possible. Because of Elliots request, Theo didnt follow protocol. He didnt wait for dental records and once they did arrive, he didnt compare them with the ones hed taken. I didnt want Theo to get reprimanded or lose his job so I convinced both Elliot and Theo to keep quiet about it.

Camilla leaned back against the sofa, looking completely drained now that shed recounted the whole story. They all fell silent for several minutes but Aiden could sense the change in everyones emotions. Quin was no doubt even more relieved than she was to find out his mother hadnt deliberately plotted to keep him in voluntary exile, at least not at the beginning. Her brothers were looking rather contrite at the moment while James and Vivian seemed to be lost in the depths of each others eyes. Aiden knew exactly how they felt.

Theressomething I dont understand, Giselle said tentatively. Camilla turned to her expectantly, but it was Quin that Giselle was speaking to. Even after Camilla told you the charges had been dropped, you didnt go out in public. You stayed in thatplace, which couldnt possibly afford the same comforts that you were used to. Why would you do that?

Quin shrugged. Mother detests being the object of gossip and I didnt want to bring any negative publicity down on her.

Oh, Quinten, Camilla said tearfully, how can you ever forgive me for being so shallow and self-absorbed? Even when I missed you so much it hurt I was too much of a coward to let you come back.

Quin rose to his feet and went to her. He leaned down a wiped away a stray tear then kissed her on the cheek. You cant take all the blame. I could have gone back to work and rejoined the living if Id really wanted to. I chose the easy way out, just like you did.

Camillas smile was tremulous. But you want to come back now, dont you?

He looked back at Aiden. Only if I can bring Aiden with me.

Giselle protested immediately. You barely know each other! Besides, Aiden has a business to run. She cant just pick up and follow you around.

Aidens laughter did nothing to improve her mothers sour attitude. Honestly, Mother, you cant possibly be serious. You were already to jump into the wedding plans before James and I had even gotten a chance to know one another. As for my businessyouve always said it was beneath a Lucisano to stoop to manual labor and never thought of it as anything more than a hobby.

Giselle let out an indignant huff. Demetrio, are you going to let your daughter speak to me in that manner?

Aiden stood up and took the hand that Quin extended to her. Well, Father? Are you going to tell me anything I said wasnt the absolute truth?

Actuallyno.

Giselle whipped her head around. What?

Shes right, my love. Youve always belittled her business in spite of the success shes made of it, and Im afraid I havent been any more supportive than you have.

Aiden is extremely talented at it, Christof chimed in.

And shes got a good head for business, Gastone added. He offered Aiden an apologetic smile. Im sorry if I never said so before. Im proud of you, Aiden, we all are.

Tears sprang to her eyes when her other three brothers nodded in agreement. She turned back to Giselle whose lips were drawn into a thin line and it occurred to her that it was the first time theyd all banded together in opposition of their Mother. One or two had always jumped in to divert Giselles attention but her brothers support had always come in a backhanded way so that they wouldnt upset their mother. Well, Aiden thought, if she was ever going to make a stand, now was the time.

Im sorry that Ive always been such a disappointment to you, Mother, but honestlyI just dont care anymore. Im tired of trying to please you when the cold hard truth is that I never will. No matter what I say or do, youll find something to pick at because Im not a replica of you.

I never expected you to be, Giselle replied, looking genuinely surprised.

Yes you did. You were both disappointed you had a daughter instead of another son, but the next best thing was to make me just like you. You criticize everything; the way I wear my hair, the fact I dont like the same frilly, feminine clothes you do. Im not good at social functions and I dont make friends easilyshall I go on?

No, I believe youve said enough. Giselle looked at her sons, whose silence spoke louder than words. Demetrios hand had come to rest on her shoulder but he, too, was silent. Imsorry, she pushed the words out. If Imade you feel unwanted, it was certainly not my intent.

Or mine, Demetrio spoke softly. Aiden, we love you, and we were never disappointed that you were a girl. Its just that wed had four boys by the time you came along and we were comfortable with that. We knew what to do, what to expect, but a having baby girl wasdifferent.

WeI mean, I felt incompetent, Giselle said. If I tried to make you into a replica of me, it was only because I didnt know what else to do. I guess I thought if you were more like me Id know how to relate with you, but when you fought me at every turn I justgave up.

Aiden didnt know what to say. Giselle Lucisano felt incompetent? And her fatherhe was always so sure of himself, so confident and now he tells her hes been so indifferent all her life because he didnt know anything about raising a girl? Okay, so her mother actually said the words Im sorry and wanted to relate to her but didnt know how, and her father told her he loved herout loudin front of people. Good God, was the world coming to an end?

This isa lot to absorb, she finally said.

Quin gave her hand a reassuring squeeze. I think we all have a lot to absorb.

I agree, Demetrio said. I also think a good nights sleep will go a long way towards that end.

Aiden was both physically and emotionally drained but there was still one hurdle to jump. Im going back to my house tonight. Ill stop by some time tomorrow to pick up the clothes I brought with me.

Giselle stood up slowly. Im sure your father will agree that

You should take one of the cars instead of riding the bike this late at night, Demetrio cut in. You dont mind driving my daughter home and retrieving the bike tomorrow, do you Quin?

Aiden flashed a grateful smile at her father. Ill get the keys.

As soon as she left the room, Demetrio asked Quin to join him out on the terrace. Quin had an uneasy feeling in his gut but he was careful not to let it show. Even though hed never met Aidens father before tonight hed heard enough about him to know he was a force to be reckoned with.

Regardless of what Aiden thought, there was no doubt in his mind her parents loved her even if they didnt know how to show it. Demetrio had resigned himself to the fact that Quin

was taking his daughter away from him, but he wasnt about to let her go until he was sure shed be well taken care of.

My daughter seems to think shes in love with you, Demetrio said as he looked out over the gardens.

I guess that makes us about even then because I seem to think Im in love with her too.

You havent known each other long, how can you be so sure its love and not just a physical attraction?

Aiden is a beautiful woman, but then she takes after her mother in that regard. If you dont mind my asking, how did you know it was love you felt for Giselle and not just a physical attraction?

Touch, Demetrio chuckled. Theyre not so different, you know; beautiful, intelligent, head strong. They know what they want and nothing is going to stop them from getting it.

Im well aware of that.

She wants you, Demetrio said bluntly.

She has me.

He turned to Quin. For how long?

If I get my way, Quin met his hard gaze, a lifetime.

You understand that if you break her heart, I wont stop my sons from finishing what they started tonight.

As much as I hate to disappoint your sons, he grinned, there wont ever be a reason for them to finish it.

Demetrio was thoughtful for a moment. Theres just one more thing we need to discuss.

Quin listened intently, nodding every now and then. When Demetrio finished speaking, they shook hands and went inside.

Chapter 14
In a perfect world, or as perfect as hers was likely to get, thats how it would have happened. She'd played it all out in her mind on the bike ride to her parent's house and envisioned this horrible night ending with everyone explaning away their deplorable behavior followed by forgivness and a happily ever after ending. But emotions were running too high, tempers too hot and out of control for the situation to be anything but volatile.

The only part that shed accurately pegged was experiencing a moment of panic when Quin helped her off the bike, but not because he didnt have the envelope with all the information Vivian had collected. Shed seen concerned that someone outside the family would find it but after shed gotten off the bike, Aiden saw him pull out from under his shirt where he must have tucked it when her brothers started in on him.

All the way home shed been running through every possible scenario and unpredictable direction this horrible situation could take but the one she favored the most, the one she hoped for, was the last one shed let play in her mind. She wanted to believe her parents would quietly listen as she explained how shed met Quin and ultimately fallen in love with him. In Aidens version, James would leap to her defense and realize in the process that he was in love with Vivian, which would get Aiden off the hook with her mother. Her brothers would still be a little hostile at first but when Camilla jumped in to give her heart wrenching story of attempted blackmail, tragic accidents, and misunderstandings, theyd realize how theyd misjudged Quin and even feel guilty for the way theyd behaved.

She envisioned Olivias evil part in the string of events that led to her death and Quins voluntary exile. Camilla would plead for her sons forgiveness and of course hed magnanimously take part of the blame himself. But the crowning glory of the scene Aiden imagined in her mind was when she finally stood up for herself and forced Giselle to admit shed failed as a mother. Even Demetrio would recognize his own failings and ask for another chance through the granddaughter Aiden and Quin would give him. When the dust finally settled, Quin would pledge his undying love and ask her to be his wife.

It was such a lovely way for things to turn out that Aiden had almost convinced herself thats exactly how it would happen. But her happily-ever-after fairy tale started to crumble the moment she was off the bike. Instead of taking her hand and letting her know they were united in this no matter what happened once they got inside, Quin drew his lips into a thin line, his grim expression deterring any light hearted banter from her.

Lets get this over with, he grunted as he headed for the house.

Cold fear washed over her in waves as she scurried after him. II thought you said we were going to be okay.

She grabbed at his arm and tried to make him stop and talk to her but Quin shook her hand off and kept walking. This was not the way it was supposed to happen, Aiden thought miserably as she trotted after him. She made one more feeble attempt to stop him but it was no use, not in the mood he was in. In desperation, she darted around him and planted herself in front of the door.

Were not going inside until you talk to me, she said with a stubborn lift of her chin.

Thunder brewed behind his dark eyes. What exactly would you like to talk about, Aiden? Shall we start with why you felt you had the right to snoop into my personal life and dig up things that were better left buried? Or would you prefer we discuss your upcoming wedding to James, the one you conveniently forgot to mention?

I can explain if youd just give me a few minutes.

Oh believe me, sweetheart, youre going to explain your little ass off but not here and not now. Theres a house full of people inside who seem to think Im sort of criminal who lures young women into the swamp so I can seduce them away from their fiancs. And, thanks to you and Vivian, Quins eyes flashed angrily, I now suspect my own mother of some very distasteful things that Id just as soon stay in the dark about. Quite frankly, at this point I wish to God Id gone with my instincts and left you standing out on the porch that night.

The color leached from Aidens face. If hed balled up his fist and punched her square in the gut, the pain that ripped through her couldnt have been more intense. She hurt everywhere. And as the seething anger that had burned in him only moments ago slowly receded, it was replaced with a look of deep regret that was even more painful to her than the outrage. He was sorry hed ever met her, sorry hed made love to her, sorry hed opened his door and saved her life. Aiden clenched her teeth together to keep the cry of agony that was welling up inside of her from erupting.

He was a complete and total bastard, Quin openly admitted to himself. Aiden, the woman he loved more than life itself, was standing there looking as if her heart had been ripped out and hed been so busy unleashing his own anger and pain he hadnt even realized what he

was doing to her. He reached out for her but she shrugged him off just as hed done to her, and before he could tell her how sorry he was shed turned and opened the door.

They both walked stiffly into the great room and were greeted with a mixture of icy stares, angry faces, and one sympathetic smile from Vivian. Even James seem to be watching her with clouded emotions, which bothered Aiden more than the disapproving gaze her mother aimed at her. The heated discussion her brothers were apparently having came to an abrupt halt but only after theyd made sure a few derogatory remarks about Quin were spoken just loud enough for them hear.

If there had been any place for her to run, Aiden would have done it in a heartbeat. But the moment she and Quin were inside the room, her father pointedly closed the double doors then positioned himself in front of the only other exit; the glass doors leading out to the gardens. Giselle was sitting primly on the end of one of the sofas while a stone faced Camilla sat at the opposite end. Vivian had secured a spot on one of the loveseats but James had chosen to stand near her father.

As for her four brothers, they were each sporting a glass of whiskey as they slowly migrated around the room, forming a loose circle around Quin. Demetrio didnt look any happier about the news that she and Quin had developed a relationship than Giselle did, but none of that would have mattered if the man beside her had only taken her hand or indicated in some way that he hadnt meant what hed said outside.

Aiden drew in an unsteady breath when Quin left her side to go stand in front of the fireplace. She supposed she couldnt really blame him because it was the only position left in the

room that allowed him to keep an eye on all the other men. The testosterone level was way too high to leave himself vulnerable if one of her brothers decided to come at him, though she knew not one of them would make a move without a nod of approval from her father.

Is it too much to ask that someone speak up and start explaining whats going on, Demetrios deep voice cut through the thick silence.

Giselles glacial stare moved from Aiden to Quin before she turned to look at her husband. It appears our daughter has been sneaking around with Camillas son behind our backs. I cant even begin to tell you how mortified I am by suchcommon behavior when shes practically engaged to James. Not only has she risked smearing the Lucisano name but shes put James in a very awkward position. If this gets out, Aidens reputation will be ruined, and who will want to marry her then?

Aiden didnt dare look at Quin, she was too afraid of what she might see. For a few breathless moments she prayed with all her heart that hed say he wanted to marry her, that he couldnt imagine a life without her and Giselle could just go to hell for insinuating Aiden was some low life tramp who was a disgrace to her family. But he didnt say a word, and with each second that ticked by her heart sank lower and lower.

Then Camilla shocked them with her vicious laugh. Staying true to form are you, Quin? When he didnt say anything she swallowed down the last of her wine and reached for the bottle to pour another glass. Im afraid my son cant help himself when it comes to loose women, she said to no one in particular, but at least this time I wont have to worry about buying his way out of it.

What is that supposed to mean? Quin said sharply. Olivia would have slit her own wrist rather than ask for a dime from you. Besides, she didnt need money. I gave her everything she wanted.

Camilla leaned back against the sofa, arching one perfectly shaped brow. Not everything, darling. That trashy little wife of yours was getting from someone else what you were obviously denying her.

Color stained Quins cheeks. I wasnt aware that she was cheating on me until after she died. What did she do, confess her sins to you and demand money for her silence?

Oh, it wasnt Olivia who tried to blackmail me, it was her lover. When he told me she was pregnant with his baby and asked for an outrageous sum of money to keep quiet, I told him to go to hell.

So you never paid him, Quin said.

Not at first, she shrugged. But I knew it was only a matter of time before Olivia coerced him into trying again or took a stab at it herself. What a conniving bitch she was, Camilla sneered.

Quins whole body went rigid. He, of all people, knew what kind of woman Olivia was, but he hadnt spent those last months of her life suffering in silence just so his mother could expose everything now. His eyes shifted to Aiden who hadnt moved a muscle since her own mothers personal attack. She was deathly pale and though she wasnt looking at him, the blank stare aimed at the wall was enough to tell him just how much his silence had hurt her. He should

have said something when Giselles biting remarks hit their target but hed been too engrossed in his own stinging pride because Aiden hadnt defended her love for him or denied her pending engagement to James.

I think this is a discussion you and I should have in private, he said to his mother.

What on earth for, Camilla replied with a bitter edge to her voice, youve already set tongues to wagging in town with that embarrassing public display back at the convention center. At the very least we owe Demetrio and Giselle the sordid truth so there can be some sort of damage control.

Quins fingers clutched the envelope hed found at Aidens house in his shaking hand. This was part of the sordid truth she was talking about and though he didnt relish the idea of revealing what was in there to the whole Lucisano clan, it was time to clear the slate and put the past where it belonged. As it stood, there would be no future with Aiden if her family didnt believe his feelings for her were real and that she wasnt just one in a long string of women he used and discarded when he got tired of them.

All right, if thats the way you want it," he gave in, "but theyre going to hear my side of it first so theyre not jaded by your version of the truth.

By all means, Camilla said with a derisive laugh. But I must warn you, darling, it wont make a bit of difference. In the end, youll only prove how youve humiliated me time and time again and that I had no choice but to do what was necessary in order to save the family name and keep the companys reputation intact.

Camilla was cruel, Aiden realized, as cruel and cold as her own mother was. Quin had never even hinted that she was like this, had never said anything that would make her believe Camilla thought of him as an embarrassment. Couldnt she see that hed done the honorable thing by marrying Olivia when he thought she was carrying his baby? How could she possibly blame him for the horrible things Olivia had done?

Quins explanation was short and to the point. Hed been conned into marriage and then forced to remain shackled to a woman he didnt love for the same reasons Camilla had given for the deplorable things shed done; to save the family name and keep the company from going under.

His voice had remained monotone the entire time but after hed told them about the car accident, Aiden detected something else behind his indifference. Pain? Anger? A mixture of both perhaps, because he was struggling to understand how his own mother could identify a complete strangers body as that of her sons.

Why did you do it, Mother? What could you possibly have to gain by telling everyone I was dead?

Camilla smiled, not even remotely sorry for what shed done. There was some confusion at the hospital and I was told you and Olivia had both died in the crash. Apparently there was a three car pile-up about the same time and there were several casualties. When they brought me to the man they believed was you, I saw my opportunity and I took it.

Quin stared at his mother, and for the first time in his life he truly saw her for what she was. And just what did you plan to do after Id recovered?

Quite frankly, she took a sip of her wine, I was hoping there wouldnt be any need for explanations.

Aiden gaped at the women. You hoped he was dead? She said shrilly. What kind of monster are you? Quin is your son for Gods sake. How could you

I dont need to defend myself to you or anyone else for that matter, Camilla hissed venomously. You have no idea how hard it is to stay at the top of the social ladder. I worked hard to get there and I wasnt about to let my sons piss poor choice in women screw that up for me. Olivia was a deceitful, greedy creature and she got what she deserved. And now, after everything Ive done to ensure I didnt have to worry about something like that happening again, you have to come along and spoil it all.

Thats enough, Quin said sharply.

Camilla shot to her feet, oblivious to the fact she was spilling wine everywhere. Im not finished. I was relieved when I thought you were dead because I blamed you for bringing that little tramp into my life. It wasnt enough that she married you just to spite me, she wanted more. Once she realized that divorcing you and taking half of everything you owned still wouldnt bring me to my knees, she went after something much more personal.

Your precious reputation, Quin snorted with disgust.

No, that would have been too easy. Camillas smile was as cold as the tone of her voice. She stole my lover, the man I trusted more than anyone in the world.

Quins gut twisted as the pieces of the puzzle finally started coming together. Thats how you got Theo Jourdain to sign off on the fake death certificate. With Olivia and his baby gone, he had nothing to hold over your head and you were free to go crying to Elliott about what his son had done.

Camilla smiled in genuine amusement. Im flattered that you think I could take on a lover barely older than you are, but it wasnt Theo, it was his father.

Elliot? Elliot was having an affair with my wife? Quins voice rose in anger. And knowing that hed betrayed both of us, you not only let him continue to stay on as C.E.O. but had him take over my job as well?

Camilla shrugged. What can I say? Elliot is good at his job, hes wonderful in bed, and now hes my own personal puppet. My life was about as perfect as it could be until you started messing around with Demetrios daughter and decided to come out of hiding.

Quins eyes flickered over Aiden who was just standing there looking shell-shocked. And why wouldnt she be? What woman in her right mind would want anything to do with him after hearing his mothers cold hearted account of the past few years? His insides were shaking and he was sure his mother thought the pained look on his face was due to the revelations shed just laid out before him, but it wasnt that. He was losing Aiden, he could see it in the statuesque way she was holding herself and how she avoided eye contact as if she couldnt bear to look at him. It hurt, plain and simple.

Giselle, whod been sitting there with an impassive expression that gave no clue as to what she was thinking, slowly stood up and took the wine glass from Camilla and set it on the

coffee table. Aiden couldnt believe her mother was behaving as if she hadnt heard the vile things that had been said, and judging by the frowning faces of her brothers, they didnt approve of it any more than she did. But Giselle surprised them all when she finally spoke.

You have my word that nothing youve said tonight will leave this room, she said to Camilla in a voice that was as cool as an Arctic breeze, but dont take that to mean I condone the things youve done. Id like you to leave my house now, and Id also suggest that you refrain from speaking to me again should our paths cross in the future.

Camilla let out an indignant huff. Just who do you think youre speaking to in that manner? I could have you ostracized from every social circle in the state if I wanted to so dont you dare think Im going to let you treat me as if Im not good enough for you to talk to.

Giselle wasnt intimidated in the least. You could try, but I really dont think you want people asking why you suddenly dislike me so much, do you?

But you gave me your word, Camilla reminded her.

And I intend to keep it, unless you force me to do otherwise. Make no mistake, Camilla, I will do whatever I have to in order to maintain my husbands good name, including exposing you for the wretched creature you are. Go away now, the sight of you makes my stomach turn.

Aiden watched Camillas face go pasty white and then ten shades of red before she stomped out of the room. If her mother was upset by the altercation, she gave no indication as she moved to stand by her husbands side. The room had gone deathly quiet and she couldnt decide if everyone was simply at a loss for words or if they were maintaining their silence

because they were just as horrified as she was by what had just transpired. Her nerves were raw and she couldnt imagine Quin was faring any better than she was but his expression remained staunchly impassive as he looked around the room at everyone but her.

Im sorry for the way your mother has treated you, Demetrio broke the silence, but it doesnt excuse the scene you caused tonight or the way youve been carrying on with our daughter. I dont hold my sons entirely blameless for what happened but I can certainly understand their desire to protect their sister.

Quin leveled a hard glare at Demetrio. Protect her from what? Id never do anything to hurt Aiden, and it wasnt as if either of us went looking for someone to carry on with, he threw Demetrios words back at him. If youre looking for someone to blame, you may just want to turn that accusing finger right back at yourself.

Demetrio visibly bristled. Are you suggesting Im somehow responsible for the way you two have behaved?

Quins temper flared. Stop making it sound like we stood in the middle of Town Square and had at each other in front of all your friends. If you two had cared anything about Aidens feelings and werent so concerned about pawning her off on a man she barely knew, we never would have met in the first place.

We were not trying to pawn her off, Demetrio replied stiffly, and I fail to see the connection between encouraging her to marry James and how the two of you met.

Aiden cringed as Quin launched into the story about how shed taken the boat out alone and everything that followed. She didnt know whether he was being antagonistic because he was angry about what happened with his mother or if it was because he resented her parents for their attitude towards him, but Quin wasnt doing anything except escalating emotions that were already strung about as tight as they could be without snapping.

They tolerated it much longer than she thought they would but when he accused them of making her life so miserable shed braved a swamp full of hungry crocs just to escape the mental abuse for awhile, all hell broke loose. Insults and more accusations flew back and forth between Quin and her father, each of them claiming the other was responsible for the confused state of mind she was in.

Except she wasnt confused, Aiden thought despondently. She knew exactly what she wanted; Quin. In a quivering voice, she begged them to stop but they just kept shooting barbs at each other until Giselle added her jeering remarks about Quins lack of moral character, which then made her the target of his anger. Thats when her brothers leapt to Giselles defense and began closing in the circle around Quin, and like any cornered animal his attack became vicious.

Youre all as cold hearted and hedonistic as my mother is, he growled. You claim to love Aiden and care about what happens to her yet not one of you has bothered to ask what she wants, what she thinks will make her happy.

She doesnt know what she wants, Enzio shouted. Youve got her so messed up shes willing to throw away everything to be with you. What can you offer her but the same solitary

existence you have? You have no family, no friends, nothing except a mother who wishes you werent alive and a company that has done just fine without your help.

Quins eyes burned with fury. And what does she have here with all of you? A family that ignores her at the best of times and chips away at her self-esteem when they do happen to notice her. At least with me, Aiden is treated like the special woman she is and isnt constantly reminded of her shortcomings.

For one brief, shining moment Aidens heart soared. Maybe he was going about it the wrong way, but Quin was doing his best to fight for her, to defend her because he knew shed never step up and do it herself. She started to go to him then so that everyone in the room would know she was willing to defy the world if it meant she and Quin would be together. But before she could get to him, Giselles acidic voice rose above the male grunting and growling.

After what Ive heard tonight, I absolutely refuse to let my daughter marry into a family as morally corrupt as yours is.

Quins eyes narrowed as he met her haughty gaze. I guess this means we finally agree on something, he spoke between clenched teeth, because I wouldnt lower myself to marry into this cold-blooded family if my life depended on it.

Aiden clutched at her chest, half expecting to feel the warmth of her own blood from the knife hed just plunged into her heart. She tried to say his name, but the only sound that came out was a soft hiss as the air was expelled from her lungs. She couldnt speak, couldnt move, couldnt get her mind to wrap around the fact that hed admitted he didnt want to be with her.

She took a few halting steps towards him but the icy glare he turned on her cut Aiden to the quick and stopped her from going any farther.

I guess this will teach us both to just live with the hand weve been dealt, wont it? Quin said to Aiden. His laugh was bitter when all she did was shake her head in denial. Even now you cant stand up for yourself and tell them all what you really think. Wheres the woman whose fighting spirit got her past half a dozen crocodiles and pounded on my door, demanding to be let in? Thats the woman I wanted to spend my life with, not this mousy little thing who trembles with fear every time her mommy and daddy issue a royal command.

Demetrios voice was low and even, though his anger was just as evident as Quins was. I think youve outstayed your welcome here, Mr. Hawke, I would appreciate it if you left now.

Quin didnt even look at her as he strode towards the door but he didnt get far before he found his way barred by the sturdy body of her brother.

Stay away from my sister, Christof warned. If I catch you anywhere near her again, Ill

Kill me? Apparently you havent been paying attention, Quin said as he shoved his way past Christof, Im already dead, remember?

Aiden jumped when the door slammed behind him and would have collapsed if James hadnt bolted from where he was standing to wrap her in his strong arms. She buried her face in his chest, too numbed by Quins desertion to even shed a tear. He was gone, and every dream in her heart had walked out that door with him. She was only vaguely aware that a hushed

conversation was going on around her but she wasnt really listening until it finally registered James was trying to shield her from the cutting remarks her mother was making.

She has nothing to be ashamed of, James said firmly. If we hadnt put so much pressure on Aiden, none of this would have happened. Quin was right; the blame lies with us, not her.

I dont know how you can defend her, Giselle said with obvious disgust. No decent man will want anything to do with her now, let alone marry her.

James tightened his arms around Aidens trembling body. Forgive me if Im being presumptuous, but I was under the impression you considered me a decent man.

Of course I do, Giselle hastened to assure him, but Im not

My proposal of marriage to Aiden still stands, James cut her off.

Aiden tilted her head back and nearly did cry then. There was nothing judgmental about the way he was looking at her, only warmth and kindness and a tender smile that was proof James truly was the type of man any woman would be lucky to call her husband. No one spoke, and she was painfully aware they were all waiting for her to say something.

Aidens voice was barely above a whisper. James, you dont have to

I want to, he whispered back. Id be honored to have you as my wife.

She looked deep into his eyes and knew with undying certainty that she could trust James to always put her needs above his own. Hed never abandon her, never break her heart, never let

her parents or anyone else hurt her as long as there was a breath left in his body. He was offering her an escape route from the horrible mess shed made of her life, and if she was a coward for taking it then it was something shed just have to deal with later.

Aiden nodded slowly. Youre a good man, James. Yesyes, Ill marry you.

Chapter 15
The six weeks leading up to her wedding were filled with dress fittings and making decisions about the decorations and flowers and cake design. It should have made her happy that Giselle actually asked her opinion instead of just taking over but her mothers efforts came a little late in the game for Aiden to care. In reality, Giselle was probably so amenable because shed gotten her way in the end, regardless of the fact her daughters heart had been broken in the process.

Aiden had given up her house and moved back to Lucisano Estates at her mothers insistence. It made more sense to sell the house and not have to deal with it once she and James were married, Giselle had told her, and Aiden gave in because she simply didnt have the will to fight any more. At least there was no more nit picking, no more nasty remarks about her hair or make-up or choice of clothes. There were only endless hours of planning for the wedding which she participated in because James seemed to be pleased that she was taking an active role in it.

When she wasnt dealing with the wedding plans, Aiden spent her free time with James. Shed grown quite fond of him and discovered he was very easy to talk to, though they carefully avoided the subject of Quin or anything that might lead to the mention of his name. Occasionally they invited Vivian along when they took in a movie or play or attended a social event. And if Aiden happened to catch the furtive glances James and Vivian exchanged now and then, she smothered her guilt by telling herself that he never would have asked her to marry him if he was truly in love with her best friend.

As her wedding day approached, the dream Aiden kept in her heart that Quin would come for her began to die a slow and painful death. She hadnt seen or heard from him since hed walked out of the house that night, though shed read in the paper that hed taken back his position as President of his company. Elliot Jourdains resignation had been mentioned but not really speculated on because the media was in too much of a frenzy over Quins return.

His withdrawal from society had been accounted for in a press release given by a tearful Camilla. Shed played her part beautifully, and not even the blood thirsty gossip columnists had questioned her sincerity. According to Camilla, her son had been devastated by his wifes death and needed time to deal with his grief on his own. She confessed that shed told everyone Quin had passed away in the accident because she felt it was her duty as his mother to protect him the best way she could. Of course she was elated now that hed come back to her and was taking over the business.

Aiden scoured the newspaper every day, hungry for anything relating to Quin and then as equally despondent when she read reports that spiced up their stories by proclaiming him to be one of the states most eligible bachelors. She found some small comfort in the knowledge Quin wasnt dating anyone, at least not yet. The tabloids would be having a hay day with it if he was, and so far there had been no mention of another woman in his life.

It had been difficult to keep her mind off Quin even with all the turmoil of her impending wedding, but it was nearly impossible during those last few days when there was nothing left to do. She kept to herself, spending most of her time sitting on the balcony outside her bedroom just staring out at the bayou and feverishly praying every time a boat approached that shed see a familiar dark haired man steer it towards the docks.

But it never happened, and on the night before she was to marry James, Aiden went back into her room, climbed into bed, and finally said good-bye to Quin.

***

Quin shoved the financial reports in his briefcase and rubbed his tired eyes. For the first three weeks after hed walked out on Aiden, hed spent every waking hour at the office pouring over contracts and accounting records before he was able to produce iron clad proof that Elliot and his mother had been embezzling from the company. Hed gone to Camillas house and slapped the information hed gathered down in front of her then proceeded to tell her exactly what he planned to do about it unless she agreed to his terms.

Camilla was surprisingly compliant after hed convinced her he was dead serious about pressing charges. Quin had handed her a set of legal papers that outlined the terms of a buyout at a price that was set several million dollars less than she would have gotten had she sold out to him before helping herself to the company bank account. The following day hed gone with his mother to visit her attorney, whod predictably advised her against selling for the price Quin was offering. Camilla had merely smiled and informed the attorney that it wasnt about money, it was about family. Then shed signed the papers.

In the weeks that followed, Quin had done his best to reverse the damage Camilla and Elliot had done until he was finally satisfied hed covered all his bases and no one would ever know how close the company had come to floundering. It would no longer be necessary for him to spend twelve to fifteen hours a day at work, which was something that sent a sliver of alarm shooting through him.

With his days consumed by running the company, hed been able to keep from brooding over losing Aiden. Even when hed gone home for the night, Quin had been so exhausted it was all he could do to eat a quick meal and shower before tumbling into bed. Hed taken up residence in the penthouse suites on the top floor of the Hawke Corporation because he couldnt bear going back to his house in the bayou. It held too many memories of the woman hed given his heart to, and when he allowed himself to think of the place he once called home, he referred to it in his mind as Aidens bayou.

As he rose from his chair and wearily dragged himself out of the office to the elevator, he couldnt suppress the anguish that gnawed at his chest. Tomorrow afternoon Aiden would take the vows that would make her James Champagnes wife. Something deep inside him wrenched, nearly bowling him over with pain. It was hard enough to know she was marrying another man, but it was almost unbearable to think of her sharing anyones bed but his. Would she give herself to James with the same wild abandoned she had with him or make those throaty little sounds that never failed to drive him half mad with desire?

He couldnt even begin to count how many times hed reached for the phone to call her or had to force himself not to bolt from the office and go to her. Even after hed seen the announcement of her engagement to James only two days after hed stomped out in a rage, Quin still couldnt drive her from his mind. But her brother was right; he had nothing to offer Aiden and she deserved a man like James who would never cause her a moments distress.

There would be no verbal sparring, no clashing of opinions, no heated arguments with James; there would only be a calm serenity and that was something Quin could never promise her. He considered the possibility that hed marry one day too. Maybe hed find the female

equivalent of James; a woman who was quiet and reserved and only wanted to please him. Someone like Aidens friend, Vivian, whod probably never raised her voice in anger in her entire life. Just thinking of marrying a woman who didnt set off sparks like Aiden did depressed him all to hell.

Quin fell into a restless sleep that night and woke feeling edgy and cantankerous. He didnt bother with breakfast and headed straight for the liquor cabinet the minute he got to his office. Thirty minutes later his assistant tapped on the door before stepping inside with some papers he needed to sign and found him standing in front of the huge picture window downing his third glass of vodka. Her obvious concern did nothing to improve his surly mood because he didnt want or deserve to have anyone care about him, not after the way hed taken Aidens love and thrown it back in her face.

After his assistant had gone, Quin poured himself another drink and sat down at his desk. He sulked for a few more minutes before pressing the button on his speaker phone and instructed her to hold all his calls and not to disturb him until further notice. He loosened his tie and propped his feet up on his desk, staring at the wall while he sipped his drink and tried not to think about Aiden bustling around in preparation for her wedding.

Each second that ticked by plunged him deeper and deeper into the fires of hell. Was she getting her hair done now or would she wear it down just to irritate her mother? Had she packed for the honeymoon, perhaps stashed a sexy nightie inside to entice James with when he finally had her all to himself? Quin swore under his breath as he hurled his glass across the room and watched it shatter when it hit the wall. Oh God, how was he supposed to get through the rest of the day when the ache in his chest was so painful he could barely breathe?

Quin had half made up his mind to leave for the day when his assistant buzzed him on the intercom. I told you I didnt want to be disturbed, he barked into the speaker.

I know, butthere are four gentlemen here to see you and they said it was imperative that they speak with you.

Quins jaw flexed. He didnt have to ask who they were or why they were here. Send them in, he told her, then rose to his feet just as Aidens brothers filed into his office.

We have something to say, Christof said once theyd converged in front of his desk.

So I gathered, Quin replied dryly.

Aidens getting married today at four oclock, are you aware of that?

I am.

Christof met his cold glare. We just wanted to make sure you werent going to do anything irrational like showing up and asking her not to go through with it.

Or trying to convince Aiden you love her and that shes making a big mistake by marrying James, Gastone added.

Even though it is a mistake? Quin asked.

I suppose you think shed be happier with you, Enzio said with a challenging lift of his chin.

What makes you so sure she wouldnt be? He shot back. I cant believe youve all convinced yourselves that Aiden would be better off marrying a man she doesnt love than being with me.

Christof scoffed at him. If that was meant to be a declaration of love for my sister, Im not impressed by it.

I dont really give a damn what you think. Now, if youre done issuing threats, I have work to do.

They hesitated for a moment before heading towards the door. There is just one more thing, Vicente finally spoke up. He turned around to face Quin. Aiden is very vulnerable right now because she thinks shes still in love with you. We just want whats best for our sister, and Im sure you want the same for her. All were asking is that you do the right thing.

Quin stared at the door for a long time after theyd gone. The words Vincente had said kept going around and around inside his head like a mantra; she thinks shes still in love with you, she thinks she still in love with you. His brows drew together. Why would her brother admit that to him instead of saying shed fallen in love with James? Quin dropped down into his chair. Several minutes passed before he tore his eyes away from the door, and thats when he noticed the envelope that one of them had placed on the edge of his desk.

Quin reached out and slid it in front of him. An angry growl erupted from between his clenched teeth when he opened the envelope and pulled out the ivory card inside. As cruel jokes went, this one took the grand prize. It was an invitation to Aidens wedding.

***

Aiden stood in front of the full length mirror trying to sooth her jittery nerves. Every time she looked at herself, she wanted to burst into tears because she wasnt the blushing bride James deserved. She was hopelessly in love with Quin and she always would be. Even worse, she suspected James knew that in spite of how hard shed tried to hide it. Was he feeling as heart sick as she was about standing before a church full of people and swearing to love and honor each other for the rest of their lives when they both knew it was a lie?

Its too late, she murmured to herself.

Too late to call off the wedding, too late to find Quin and tell him she was desperately in love with him, too late to stand up to her parents and make them see how wrong this was. There wasnt anything she could do except go through with it because she just couldnt humiliate James by changing her mind now. She could do this, Aiden told herself. Just hang on for a little while longer and it would all be over. In less than twenty minutes shed walk down the aisle on her fathers arm and become Mrs. James Champagne, thats all there was to it.

Thank God Christof finally came to escort your mother to her seat, Vivian said as she slipped inside the room. She kept giving me last minute instructions. As if I didnt know to make sure your veil was on straight, she rolled her eyes.

Aiden turned to Vivian just as the emotional dam that had building up inside her began to crumble. I need to speak to James, she said in a wobbly voice.

Aiden, you cant! Vivian cried. Its bad luck to let the groom see you in your wedding dress before you walk down the aisle.

I have to, Viv. I need to ask him ifif hes sure he wants to go through with this.

Oh Aiden, Vivian went to her, youre just having last minute wedding jitters, thats all. When Aiden shook her head in denial, Vivian let out a resigned sigh. All right, Ill go ask him to come and see you. Before I go, I want you to know that Im here for you, no matter what you decide.

I know, she managed to choke out.

I mean it, Aiden. If you change your mind about marrying James, Ill get you out of here before anyone even knows whats going on. You can even stay with me until you find another place to live. And dont worry about James. I promise you he wouldnt want you to go through with it if he knew it would make you unhappy.

Hes such a good man, Viv. How can I even consider hurting him like this?

Itll be okay, Vivian promised. Im going to go get him now, but Ill be right outside the door if you need me when youre done, okay?

Aiden nodded, fighting back the tears as Vivian hurried out of the door. She was still standing in the same spot a few minutes later when James stepped inside and closed the door behind him. His face was etched with concern as he crossed the room and took her icy hands in his.

What is it, Aiden? Vivian said it was urgent that you speak with me.

Aiden drew in a deep breath and started to talk.

***

It nagged at him incessantly as the time inched closer and closer to four oclock. Why had her brothers waited until today to pay him a visit and why warn him off then turn around and provide him with all the information about when and where the wedding would take place? And now that he thought about it, not one of them had made him feel even remotely threatened physically, which theyd certainly made a point of doing that night at their house. Yes, theyd told him not to do anything irrational but theyd been a little too quick to offer suggestions as to what that irrational behavior entailed.

Quin jumped to his feet. How could he have been so stupid? They couldnt just come right out and tell him to crash the wedding, not without feeling like theyd betrayed their parents trust. So theyd done the next best thing and laid out as many hints as they could that he still had a chance to win Aiden back. She still thinks shes in love with you. Quin set his chin determinedly as he raced out the door. By God, before he this day was through, Aiden wouldnt just think she was in love him, shed know for damn sure.

He made the twenty minute drive in eleven minutes flat and arrived at the church with only nine minutes to spare before the ceremony began. Quin sprinted up the steps, praying there was enough time left to convince Aiden to call it off. The hallway was deserted but the chapel doors were open so he could see that everyone was seated and waiting for the organ music to cue the bride.

Aiden would have to come down this hall, he reasoned, which meant she couldnt be too far away. He glanced to the right and then to the left, hope blooming in his heart when he spotted Vivian pacing nervously near the end of the hall. She looked a little startled when Quin came barreling towards her, then shocked the hell out of him when she planted her hands on her hips and lit into him the moment he got within a few feet of her.

Well its about damn time, Vivian snapped.

Im sorry, I just Quin blinked. What do you mean its about damn time?

Do you know what time it is? Five minutes to four, she said irritably. Why did you cut it so close? I specifically told the boys to make sure you knew what time the wedding started so youd be here in plenty of time to stop it. Well, theres nothing we can do about it now, Vivian sighed. Youll just have to work fast because James is dead set on marrying Aiden so he can save her from her parents. I swear to God, Ive never met a man more honorable than James Champagne and Im going to be mighty pissed off if you dont break them up so I can marry him myself.

Quin would have laughed if Vivians ranting hadnt killed another minute of precious time. Ill do my part if you do yours.

My part?

Yeah, he grinned as he took her arm and steered her towards the door, Im not the only one whos going to admit Im madly in love and want to stop this wedding.

Quin walked into the room just in time to witness James give Aiden a warm embrace. For the last six weeks hed suffer unimaginable agony over losing Aiden but it didnt even come close to the pain that shot through him when he saw the two of them locked in each others arms. The happy smile that was aimed at James slowly disappeared when she saw him standing there, and if it hadnt been for Vivian giving him a good hard shove from behind, Quin would have turned around and walked back out.

Aidens arms slipped from around James neck. Quinwhat are you doing here?

Tell her, Vivian hissed, still prodding him in the back.

Iuhwanted to He raked his fingers through his hair and looked at James. Would you mind getting your hands off of her? Its a little difficult to profess my undying love when youre holding her like that.

James looked down at Aiden but she hadnt taken her eyes off Quin since he walked into the room. I think theres something you should know he started but was cut off when Quin reached behind him and hauled Vivian to his side.

She has something to say first, dont you Vivian?

Ium, yesI agree with Quin. Its awfully hard to profess my undying love when youre holding her like that.

James arms dropped to his sides. Vivianare you sayingI mean, it sounded to me like

I love you, Vivian blurted out. Ive loved you for years, only I was too afraid to say it, too afraid to even hope there was a chance you could love me too.

You should have told me, he admonished. If Id known He stopped abruptly, took one look at Aiden who still had her eyes glued to Quin, then strode across the room and grabbed Vivians hand. Well be in the next room, James called over his shoulder as he pulled Vivian along behind him.

I think you just lost your groom, Quin said as he closed the distance between them.

No, Aiden said softly, I lost him before you even got here.

I dont understand. When we came in

I was giving him a hug for being so understanding. Aiden slipped her arms around his neck and let out a happy sigh when he caught her around the waist and pulled her closer. I couldnt marry him, not when Im so in love with you it hurts.

And I couldnt let you marry him, Quin said as he lowered his mouth to hers, not when Im so in love with you it hurts.

For the next few minutes, Aiden was lost in the depth of his kisses. She forgot all about the chapel full of people whod gathered to see her get married to James, and she forgot about her mother and father who were going to be absolutely livid when they found out Quin was here and the wedding was off. The only thought in her head was that Quin loved her; nothing else mattered. It was at that precise moment that the door was flung open and all four of her brothers came tromping in.

I see you ignored our advice about not crashing the wedding, Christof said to Quin.

You leave him alone, Aiden ground out as she pressed herself closer to Quin. Im in love with him and theres nothing you can say or do thats going to make me marry James.

Easy, chri, Quin crooned softly, I believe theyre on our side.

What? She eyed each of her brothers in turn in total confusion.

They came to see me this morning, he explained. As a matter of fact, one of them was kind enough to leave an invitation to your wedding on my desk so I could get here in time to kidnap you.

You must be mistaken, Christof refuted, my brothers and I have been at the church since early this morning making sure everything was done properly.

Gastone shot his sister a conspiratorial wink. Mother would be appalled if we caused a scene inside the church, so if youre planning to abduct our sister Im afraid theres not much we can do about it.

But Im not planning on abducting her, Quin replied.

Aiden looked up him with eyes that were beginning to tear. Y-youre not?

No, mon amour, he said tenderly, I have decided that I cannot leave here with younot until you are legally my wife, that is.

Oh Quin, nothing would make me happier but we cant. Mother and Father will never agree to let us get married when all those people out there think Im marrying James.

I think they will, James said from the doorway. He whisked Vivian into the room, planted a firm kiss to her lips, then turned to go. Ill take care of everything, just give me five minutes.

It was the longest five minutes of Aidens life, but the pent up tension left her body in a rush the moment James came back into the room sporting a satisfied grin. Hed had a little chat with her parents and given them a couple of options, James told them as he looped his arm possessively around Vivians waist. They could either live with the shame of having to announce to all their guests that the wedding was off or they could confess how theyd cleverly tricked the friends and family of both the bride and groom into attending a double wedding.

Giselle is making the speech right now, he told them. If we hurry, we can stand outside the door and see how well she pulls it off.

Like a group of school children who were eager to watch their prank played out on the unsuspecting victims, they all rushed from the room, whispering and muffling their laughter as they traipsed down the hall to the chapel. Giselle was just apologizing for the slight delay and asked them all to forgive her for the little trick shed pulled.

Those of you who know my daughter also know that Vivian Demarais has been her best friend since they were children. Theyve been practically inseparable and as close as any two sisters could be. So when they both fell in love and got engaged, naturally I agreed to help plan both weddings.

She should get an academy award for this, Quin whispered when Aiden had to clamp her hand over her mouth to keep from giggling.

You can imagine how upset I was to learn that the newspaper had somehow matched the wrong bride and groom and announced that Aiden was marrying James instead of her real fianc, Quinten Hawke. Giselle gave a light hearted laugh when the room came alive with hushed whispers.

Of course the girls thought it was amusing, she continued when the noise died down, especially when the invitations arrived and we discovered the same mistake had been made twice. So rather than have the paper retract the announcement and have all those lovely invitations redone, I suggested a double wedding.

The noise level rose once again, at which point Demetrio stood up and hastened up the aisle and out the doors where they were all huddling and looking guilty as sin. His stern glance moved from son to son before it landed on Quin.

I expect you to keep her in line, he said brusquely. I wont have you encouraging my daughter to act as impulsively as she has today.

Yes, sir, Quin replied respectfully.

And youll apologize to Giselle for putting her in such an awkward position.

Of course, sir.

And stop calling me sir, Demetrio grunted. I wont have people saying that I treat my son-in-law like a militant bastard.

Quin had to bite the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing. A quick glance at Aidens brothers told him they were having the same difficulty in keeping a straight face. Demetrio ordered all the men inside to take their places and Quin was once again surprised when two of her brothers took their place beside him as groomsmen while the other two stood beside James. There was a tittering of excitement when the organ began to play the wedding march and that was the last thing Quin was conscious of before Aiden stepped through the doorway.

Demetrio stood between the two young women and slowly marched them down the aisle towards their future husbands. Vivian looked lovely in the cream colored bridesmaid gown but it was Aiden who took his breath away. Shed removed the veil shed been wearing, probably so she wouldnt outshine Vivian quite so much, and shed taken her hair down so that it hung in soft curls around her bare shoulders. She was the most beautiful woman hed ever seen and Quins heart swelled with pride when she took his hands and turned to face him.

Aiden was in a daze as she said her vows and listened to the thick emotion in Quins voice when he said his. There was only one brief moment of confusion when it came to the part where they were supposed to exchange rings because neither of them had a one to give the other. She only hoped they didnt look too shocked when Christof stepped forward and produced a plain gold band for Quin and a stunning diamond ring for her.

You owe me big time, Christof whispered to Quin as he passed her ring to him. Im talking cash and lots of it.

Quin just smiled. Ill get her a bigger diamond later, he whispered back, this puny thing you picked out couldnt have cost more than a couple grand.

Aidens heart surged when Quin slipped the ring on her finger and promised to love her all the days of her life. He kept his eyes locked to hers and when they were finally pronounced man and wife, she saw something shift behind his loving gaze. She belonged to him now, thats what he told her without saying a word. She belonged to him and he belonged to her.

Mrs. Hawke, he murmured as he leaned down to kiss his new bride.

A thunderous roar echoed off the chapel walls as their guests rose to their feet and applauded amid happy laughter and a few cat calls because Mrs. Hawke was being thoroughly kissed by her husband and it was causing quite a commotion. When he finally let her up for air, Aiden peered around his broad shoulders to apologize to Vivian for upstaging her and got the shock of her life.

Now whod have thought either of them had it in them, Quin said with a grin when Aiden told him to turn around.

James and Vivian were oblivious to the world and everything in it at that moment, absorbed as they were in a kiss that was so passionate even Quins cheeks were tinted with color. He turned back to Aiden with a devilish gleam in his eyes.

Surely youre not going to let a couple of lightweights like that show everyone how its done, mon chri.

Aiden laced her arms around his neck. Mother will be mortified.

All the more reason to kiss you, my dear, he muttered as he lowered his head and proceeded to devour her mouth.

Aiden felt that one from the top of her head to the tip of her curling toes. This was what dreams were made of; being locked in the arms of the man you love while he kissed you until your insides turned to liquid goo. Shed never felt so complete, so secure in the knowledge that someone loved her just the way she was. Aiden had come home at last.

The End