Description

Miranda Carrington has been secretly in love with her boss for years, but after getting involved with his twin brother, Jack, and also spending one passionate night with Holt, she has a serious problem; she's pregnant and doesn't know which one of them is the father.

Chapter 1
Miranda drew in a long steady breath as she always did before entering the lions den. In the three years shed worked as Holt Devlins Personal Assistant, shed never once seen anyone pass through his doors without first pausing to draw in a few extra ounces of courage. Well, everyone except his mother, that is. Of course, in Mirandas case it wasnt courage she needed but strength; strength to keep the pitiful look of adoration out of her eyes, strength not to throw herself shamelessly in his arms and confess that she was hopelessly in love with him.

She could almost see the look of indifference on his handsome face. Or worse, the cold distain. Women had been throwing themselves at Holt practically all his life and it irritated him to no end. She knew this because shed heard the iciness in his voice on numerous occasions whenever his woman de jour was foolish enough to show up at his office unannounced. Not that any woman in her right mind would want to break it off with Holt, but invading his place of business was certainly the fastest way to do it. In that acidic tone of his, hed inform them he didnt need a clinging vine and that any future plans theyd made were permanently cancelled. Miranda wasnt afraid of him by any means, but shed just die if he ever used that tone with her.

Holt didnt even glance up when she entered his office and quietly closed the door because no one but Miranda would dare come in without knocking. She took the seat in front of his desk and waited with pen and pad in hand while he finished reading the last of the mornings mail. Inwardly, she smiled because she knew her perfect timing wouldnt go unnoticed by Holt. She had an incredible knack for knowing what he wanted, when he wanted it, and in just

which manner it was to be presented. It was one of the reasons shed managed to outlast all of her predecessors. The other reason was Holt himself.

He was often curt in his responses and more often than not, barked his orders and it had scared off stronger willed women than Miranda. But it never ruffled her in the least. She understood him in a way none of the others had. Devlin Shipping was his life and he took his responsibilities seriously. At any given time he could tell you exactly what was going on in his company and he was merciless with employees who werent doing their jobs and doing them well. What they took as arrogance, she saw as confidence, what they thought was rudeness on his part was really just a dedicated man giving quick, decisive responses. So maybe he did have a rough exterior, but Miranda knew a side of him she doubted few people had ever seen.

Holt pulled several letters from the pile and handed them to Miranda. She didnt look at them or ask any questions but merely tucked them beneath her notepad and he silently thanked God, yet one more time, for his demure assistant. Miranda would know what to do and he wouldnt have to worry about typos or whether theyd be taken care of because she was extremely efficient and self reliant. Once he instructed her how to do something, he never had to repeat himself and there would be no time wasted in having to check her work. She was every successful businessmans dream, and knowing full well what a gem she was Holt paid her handsomely for it.

He glanced down at the note on his desk. Willis reported there was a problem with one of the ships.

There was, she replied pointedly.

Holt smiled. As usual, youre one step ahead of me. So its taken care of then?

The repair crew will be there first thing in the morning.

And the Thacker contracts?

Delivered an hour ago.

My mother

Sends her regrets, but promised to join you for lunch next Wednesday.

Holt leaned forward to check his schedule, certain he already had an appointment for that day. I thought

Wednesday was the only day she could make it so I rescheduled Mr. Rosenberg for Thursday.

He leaned back in his chair, giving her a nod of approval. If I wasnt so afraid of commitment, Id probably fall madly in love with you, you know that dont you?

Miranda knew he was teasing but it didnt keep the soft blush from working its way up her neck. Im just doing my job, she said quietly, carefully keeping her eyes pinned to the notepad on her lap.

Holt studied her for a moment, not entirely unaffected by the pretty flush that crept into her cheeks. She wasnt beautiful, at least not in the classic sense, but she had delicate features and her dark hair was really quite a stunning contrast to the jade coloring of her eyes. As for

sexual appeal, his poor little Miranda was seriously lacking but he wasnt ungrateful for that. The severe bun she always kept her hair in coupled with the sensible but less than flattering skirt and jacket ensembles kept the men in his company from distracting her with idle flirtations. She was reserved and respectful, proficient, never called in sick or complained when she had to work overtime, and she was completely devoted to him. What more could he ask for?

What about the New Years Eve party? He asked.

Youll have to make an appearance of course, and everyone will expect you to say a few words. She couldnt quite keep the smile off her face when he groaned. Dont worry, Ive given the caterers very explicit instructions to have their people standing by with open bottles of champagne. All you have to do is thank everyone for their hard work, wish them a Happy New Year, and tell them to drink up. Three minutes tops and youll be out of the spot light.

Holt let out an audible sigh. Thanks Miranda, what would I ever do without you?

***

Miranda was getting a little anxious. The party was supposed to start in just over an hour and she was still stuck on perma-hold with Customs. Even assuming she could wrap it up in a few minutes, she still had to go home to change and there was no way shed make it back before the party started. Holt was counting on her to make sure everything got kicked off properly and she just couldnt disappoint him. She had no choice but to call her sister and beg her to come to the rescue. If Brianne could pick up her dress and shoes and bring them to the office, shed make it in plenty of time. As soon as she hung up with Customs, she dialed her sister.

Bri, I need your help. Im stuck at the office and the partys going to start soon. Would you be a doll and go to my house and grab my dress and shoes?

Oh, geez, Miranda Id love to except Im running late myself. Chad has reservations at the White Palace and Im supposed to meet him there in forty-five minutes. Ill tell you what. Why dont I just bring you something of mine to wear?

Miranda grimaced. Nothing flashy, Bri, I mean it. And nothing too low cut or anything that fits like a second skin. Oh, and no animal prints.

Brianne laughed. Well, that knocks out about three quarters of my wardrobe. Ill keep it tame, I promise. Ill be there in twenty minutes.

Miranda hung up wondering if it wouldnt have been better to be late. She and her sister were complete opposites in just about everything, wardrobe included. Although their measurements were nearly the same, Briannes taste in clothing ran a bit on the skimpy side. She doubted her sister owned anything that could even remotely be considered conservative and Miranda only hoped her flamboyant sibling wouldnt bring anything too revealing. Twenty minutes later she could only gape in horror when the garment was laid out across her desk.

I cant wear that! Itsits

One of my favorite dresses so watch what you say, Brianne warned. Look, you have a gorgeous figure, almost as fabulous as mine, she said with a grin. You need to show it off a little so you can catch yourself a good man.

No respectable man would have anything to do with me if I was wearing this, she wailed. Oh, Bri, how could you do this to me?

Brianne shrugged. Im just trying to help you break out of that shell youre hiding in. Id love to stick around and see how you look in it but Ive got to run. She gave Miranda a quick hug. I hope you meet Prince Charming tonight, you deserve it.

Prince Charming, aka Holt, was going to mistake her for a lady of the evening in this get up. Miranda just shook her head as Brianne dashed out of her office in a bright red mini skirt and snug blouse that left very little to the imagination. She ran her fingers over the silky material of the dress, thankful that Bri had at least brought something that was a decent color. Almost the same hue as her eyes, the green dress would probably be very flattering as far as that went but the scooped neck and plunging back made her stomach a little queasy. One glance at the clock told her there was no time left to deliberate the problem so she scooped it up along with the matching high heels and the brown bag she assumed contained nylons and hurried into Holts private bathroom.

Stripping quickly, Miranda let out a groan when she opened the bag and pulled out a pair of silk thigh-high nylons followed by a French cut bra and black lace panties. Price tags on all the items assured her Bri hadnt worn them before but that did little to ease the rising panic inside of her. Shed feel positively wicked wearing these things under an already sinful dress. Miranda bit her lip, wondering if she dared. Yes, she thought with a determined lift of her chin. Tonight she would be Cinderella and she really would meet Prince Charming. It wasnt as if shed ever had a chance with Holt anyway so maybe it was time to break out of her shell as Bri said.

Once she had everything on, however, Mirandas bravado began to slip. The dress conformed to her figure like a glove, exposing quite a bit more of her ample breasts than she was comfortable with and the stretchy material was clinging to her rear end for dear life. It fell midthigh, just three inches below where her nylons ended so any bending over at all would expose bare flesh. The back of the dress dipped all the way to her waist so almost her entire back was showing, yet she wasnt completely appalled by the way she looked. It made her feel sexy and gave her a little boost of confidence. Dolled up in Bris dress, Miranda wasnt the plain Jane everyone thought she was.

An examination of the entire effect in the full length mirror brought a frown to her face. Something would definitely have to be done about her hair. It wouldnt look right to have it pulled back and she needed just a touch of mascara and lip gloss. Yanking out the clip and pins that made her look a bit like an uptight librarian, Miranda let it tumble free. It was long and straight so a few quick strokes of the brush was all it took to soften her features, and after applying the make-up she was amazed at the difference in her appearance. She wasnt even sure anyone would recognize her and secretly hoped that was so because shed worked very hard to maintain her prim and proper image and didnt want it to fall to pieces over a skimpy dress and fancy high heels. Still, it wouldnt hurt to show Holt there was a real woman beneath the dour office attire she always wore.

Miranda stuffed her things in the paper bag and hurried back to her desk. Since the party was in the Convention Hall on the ground floor of Devlin Shipping, she could leave everything here and come back for it later. The only problem was where to put the key to the door when she left the Executive Suites. After a moment of debate, she tucked it beneath the elastic band of her

nylons and prayed it wouldnt work its way down her leg. Less than five minutes later, she was standing in the kitchen talking to the caterers.

***

Holt stood in a corner close to the stage trying to make himself as invisible as possible. He gulped down the drink in his hand and snatched another from the tray of a passing caterer and downed half of it. Put him in a room full of high powered executives, politicians, or the rich and famous and Holt was in his element. He understood power and arrogance and was comfortable with it, but here among his own employees he felt like an outcast. They had nothing in common, save Devlin Shipping, and he had no idea how to relate to them. Not that any of them made much of an attempt to carry on a conversation anyway and that was just fine with him.

He scanned the room, impatient for Miranda to arrive. At least he as at ease with her and shed run interference if any of the employees approached. He wondered what theyd think if they knew how nervous it made him to be here. Theyd never believe it, especially knowing what a hard-ass he was at the office, and that was the only thing that made being here tolerable. He craned his neck, swearing under his breath. Where the hell was Miranda? She promised hed be in and out in no time and hed already been here for a good twenty minutes. The room was filling up fast and the noise level was elevating by the minute as employees and their spouses along with some of Devlins clients and vendors got caught up in the celebration.

He was just thinking about the nice quiet evening he had planned for himself when he spotted the woman. Actually, her legs caught his attention first and his eyes worked their way up

from there. Shapely and sexy, they led to a delightfully rounded bottom, tapered into a slender waist, and ended with a glorious mane of dark hair. He knew she wasnt an employee or client, so it was possible she worked for one of his vendors, which meant she wasnt off limits. One elegant hand snaked down her dress and tugged at the hem and for one fleeting moment, Holt glimpsed bare skin. Heat pooled deep in his abdomen and suddenly spending the night alone didnt seem like such a great idea.

Setting his drink on the closest table, Holt made his way confidently across the room. Now this was something he was familiar with; seducing a woman into his bed. If she was married, hed do nothing more than introduce himself, but if she was single he intended to leave the party with her on his arm. He wasnt more than three feet away from her when she moved off and wormed her way through the crowd. Keeping his eyes glued to her backside, Holt had much less difficulty maneuvering around the guests; partly because they recognized him as the boss but also because at six feet four most people made it a point to move out of his way first. A few minutes into the hot pursuit, his intended prey stopped so abruptly he nearly ran her over.

He flashed a rakish grin, one that had won him more than his fair share of female companionship in the past. Im sorry, I just Holt blinked, unable to believe his eyes. Miranda?

She laughed at the astonished tone of his voice. I guess Ive outdone myself, Ive been getting that reaction since the moment I walked in. Are you ready to make the toast?

She was beautiful. No, more than beautiful, she was simply stunning and Holt was finding it very difficult to equate this stimulating woman with his introverted assistant. He was

also finding it difficult to breathe because the air had quite literally been sucked out of his lungs when shed turned around. His eyes raked over her slender form, over the flat belly and firm, round breasts to the column of her lovely neck, and finally halted at her shiny lips. Lips that looked invitingly soft and kissable. Only her eyes seemed familiar, and right now they were staring at him curiously.

You lookincredible, he finally managed to squeeze out.

Miranda blushed with pleasure. You look quite dashing yourself. When he didnt say anything more, she shifted uncomfortably. Holt, about that toast?

Yes, of course.

He stepped aside so she could go first, absently placing his hand on the small of her back then quickly snatched it away. A jolt of electricity couldnt have shocked him more than the feel of her soft, warm skin beneath his fingertips and Holt had to clench his jaws against the rush of desire that surged through him. Good God, what was wrong with him? This was Miranda Carrington, his meek little assistant, the woman most people would overlook in a crowd, the same woman whod stirred his compassion less than a week ago because hed been thinking she had absolutely no sex appeal.

Holt stole a quick look at her. She stirred a whole lot more than compassion right now that was for sure, but he couldnt afford to make a move on her no matter how much he wanted to. For one thing, hed never find anyone who was so in tuned with him in the office, and for another he just couldnt bear the thought of breaking her heart. And it would break her heart, he knew that with undying certainty. Miranda was kind and gentle and shed never be able to give

her body without getting emotionally involved. Looking at her now, Holt wasnt entirely sure he could keep from feeling something for her either and that scared the hell out of him.

Why did she have to wear that dress? And why did she have to let her hair down like that, making her look all soft and feminine? His fingers itched to touch it, to sift through the silkiness and watch it fall back into place. He wanted to see it splayed across his pillow when he made love to her andwhoa, whoa, what was he doing? He had to put an end to that line of thinking before he did something he regretted. She had no right to do this to him, not when everything was so perfect between them. What kind of game was she playing? Irrational anger burned deep inside of him. It wasnt fair of her to make him want her so bad when she knew perfectly well he could never act on it.

Miranda stopped in front of the stage and motioned for the band to wind it down before turning to Holt. The smile on her face faded. He lookedangry, and for the life of her she couldnt figure out what had happened in the short walk to the stage. But when his hostile glare swept over her dress and back up again, she understood. He was only being polite when he said she looked incredible. What he really thought was evident by the look of disgust on his face. Miranda crossed her arms over her chest in an effort to cover herself. She had no way of knowing the self-conscious gesture only pushed her breasts up and made them even more tempting than before.

Holt gritted his teeth. Damn, there was only so much a man could take! Lets get this over with, he snapped.

Miranda blinked back the sting of tears. Sure, Ill uh, be right back. She turned away from him and hurried up the stairs to the stage. When the band stopped playing, she forced herself to smile as she asked for everyones attention. Good evening everyone, Im Miranda Carrington, Personal Assistant to your host, Holt Devlin.

She waited for the applause to die then blushed profusely when a few men let out cat calls. Her mortification doubled when she chanced a quick glance at Holt and saw his broad shoulders visibly stiffen. Shed made a fool of herself wearing Bris dress and even worse, shed embarrassed Holt. Thank God they had a week off for the holidays because there was no way she could walk into the office and pretend everything was perfectly normal. When it was time to go back, shed dress as she always had and hope by then he will have forgotten all about it.

If youd all take a moment to look around, youll find fresh glasses and a staff member ready to pour the champagne. While youre filling your glasses, Ill hand the microphone over Holt Devlin whose generosity has made this celebration possible.

Amid cheers and thunderous applause, Holt joined her on the stage but even his employees enthusiastic response didnt seem to appease his obvious anger with her. Miranda thrust the microphone blindly into his hand and made a hasty retreat. What in the world had ever made her believe a man like Holt would want her? He probably thought she was some closet floozy who played the shy school marm by day and the wanton harlot at night. Her cheeks burning with humiliation, Miranda threaded her way across the room and escaped into the hallway. She all but ran to the elevator, stabbing at the button until at last the bell dinged and the doors slid open.

In the solitude of the office she collapsed in her chair, the pain in her heart so sharp she clutched at her chest. What had shed done? Hed held her in such high esteem before tonight and nowshe didnt even want to know what he thought of her. Bri could have pulled this off, she realized dismally. Bri would have looked elegant not cheap, and Holt would have gazed at her sister with desire not revulsion. Miranda covered her face with her hands and sobbed. Shed made a horrible mess of things and couldnt even being to figure out how to make it right.

***

Holt made the toast as expected, but his eyes never left Miranda the entire time. Hed hurt her. Hed watched her face crumble, watched as she scurried off the stage and wheedled her way through the happy crowd and slipped out the door. Guilt and remorse twisted at his gut and somehow he made it through the brief speech and off the stage before he made an idiot of himself and begged someone to stop her. And what would he say to her anyway? Gee, Miranda, Im sorry for being such a heartless bastard but you see it was the only way I could keep from grabbing you up in my arms and carrying you to the nearest bed? She understood him on so many levels, but he seriously doubted shed comprehend that hed done it to protect her, not hurt her.

Holt nodded and smiled his way across the room but didnt stop to talk to anyone. He had to find her and make sure she was okay. Hed think of something, make up a story about why he was suddenly so irate and assure Miranda it had nothing to do with her. It wouldnt be easy being that close to her again but he was a grown man for Gods sake, surely he could maintain the same indifference towards her that he did to other women. Granted, he thought she was breathtaking and yes, he wanted her but she had no power over him. She was just a woman after

all, and Holt was an expert at keeping that stone wall around his heart where they were concerned. Miranda was no different. He was merely attracted to her sexually and that could easily be remedied in the arms of someone else.

Right, he muttered, as long as I keep my eyes closed and pretend theyre Miranda.

The hallway was empty and she wasnt out in front of the building. This is ridiculous, he thought when he knocked on the ladies restroom then poked his head in when there was no response. He called out her name, called himself a name for caring whether she was upset or not, then cursed her again for making him feel like a school boy with a crush. He considered going up to his office to check there but decided shed probably just gone home. Hed go home himself, take a shower and change and then give her a call. Hed make it casual, just a boss checking to make sure his valued employee got home safely. It might seem a little strange, but at least he wouldnt worry about her all night. Then once that issue was resolved, hed spend the rest of the evening trying to figure out how the hell he was going to work with her again without visualizing her lying beneath him in a tangle of sheets.

Chapter 2
Miranda lifted her head and looked around in dazed confusion. Why was she still at the office? The last thing she remembered was sitting at her desk then laying her head on her arms so she could have a good cry. She must have fallen asleep. Alarmed to find it was nearly eleven oclock, Miranda started to gather her things when something stopped her. Shed missed almost the entire party and had spent New Years Eve crying over a man who in all reality hadnt given her a second thought once hed left. Pulling out her compact and doing a quick repair job on her make-up, Miranda came to a decision. This was a new year, a time for new beginnings, and she was going to start by going downstairs and celebrating like everyone else.

In spite of the fact she knew Holt hadnt planned on sticking around after the toast, she found herself scanning the room for him. The party was in full swing and it seemed everyone had taken full advantage of the free alcohol. She wasnt worried about them getting home safely though because Holt always arranged for a fleet of taxis to be waiting outside at one oclock when the party ended. He also reimbursed anyone who had to use a taxi to get back to their cars the next day, which was no small expense but he was more concerned about the safety of his employees than the money.

Not surprisingly, Holt wasnt there but she was still determined to join in the festivities. Grabbing a glass of champagne, Miranda wandered around the room sipping the bubbly liquid and rather enjoying the way it tickled her noise. She wasnt much of a drinker and after only one glass she was starting to feel the affect and had just decided shed better not have a second one when a group of women from Holts office coaxed her into a refill. It felt good to be

included in their silly chatter and half way through her third glass she was laughing and joking as if it were perfectly normal for her to do so.

Before long the women were joined by a few men and then a couple of more until it seemed half the office staff surrounded her. When one of the men asked her to dance, she surprised herself by accepting at once and within minutes was being swept around the dance floor and having the time of her life. When the song ended, another glass of champagne was thrust into her hands which shed nearly polished off before being whisked out onto the dance floor again. It was a slow dance and the young man was holding her too close, being way too free with his hands and doing his damnedest to get her to kiss him. Miranda tried to laugh it off and kept turning her head every time his lips swooped in for the kill, but it was getting excruciatingly warm and she was starting to get dizzy. The song went on and on until she was certain she was suffocating and in a moment of panic, she shoved the man away from her.

I need air, she gasped before making a mad dash towards the doors.

Outside the air was cold and crisp but it felt good after being inside the overheated Convention Hall. Without thinking, Miranda headed towards the parking lot, convinced that the shakiness in her legs would go away if she just walked it off. Shed get in her car and go home and then shed feel better. If she could find her car, that is. Standing in the frigid weather in the middle of the night without a single clue as to where her parking space was suddenly struck Miranda as about the stupidest thing shed ever done. It was right up there with wearing Bris dress in the hopes of catching Holts eye. She took a few unsteady steps forward and couldnt for the life of her figure out why she was out here.

You look lost, a masculine voice sounded just behind her.

Miranda jumped and let out a little squeak. Iyou scared me half to death, she said, recognizing the young man shed been dancing with a few minutes before.

You left so fast, I was worried you were sick or something.

She shook her head then groaned when a wave of nausea washed over her. I need to go home.

Youre in no condition to drive. He looped an arm around her waist and started propelling her through the parking lot.

Miranda glanced wildly around. It was dark and there wasnt another soul in sight. Where are you taking me?

Home. Isnt there where you wanted to go?

His smile was warm and for a few moments she let him lead her through the rows of cars when it occurred to her that he didnt know where she lived. My home, she told him firmly. I want to go to my own home.

His grip on her tightened. Dont worry, honey, youll get thereeventually.

She tried to pull away from him but was no match for his strength. Unused to the heels she was wearing, Miranda stumbled and nearly fell then let out a startled cry when he yanked her up against his chest and started kissing her. She struggled to free herself, her fists pummeling uselessly as he continued his assault, and all the while her confused mind couldnt quite grasp

what was happening to her. When he finally pulled his mouth away and dropped his hold on her, she was shaking so bad it was all she could do to remain standing. He didnt say anything as she inched herself away from him, but the lecherous grin on his face told her he had no intention of letting her get far. Miranda eyed him warily for a few seconds then whirled around and bolted. The man only laughed, catching her before shed even gotten two car lengths away.

Let me go! She screamed, kicking and hitting as he hauled her back the way shed come.

The air was forced from her lungs when he slammed her up against a pickup and pinned her against the cold metal with his body. A helpless whimper whispered through her lips when his hands worked their way up over her hips and roughly cupped her breasts. He was breathing hard, rubbing himself up against her until she felt so sick she thought shed pass out. Miranda begged him to stop, swearing not to tell a soul if hed only let her go but he wasnt even listening to her. Then his hand moved up her thigh and slipped beneath her dress and she lost it. The blood curdling scream echoed across the parking lot and was abruptly cut short when he clamped his mouth over hers. She squeezed her eyes shut, too numb with fear to fight when his weight was suddenly justgone.

She heard a sickening crunch and opened her eyes just in time to see the man crumble to the ground. Blood gushed from his broken nose and he howled with pain as the large figure hovering over him grabbed at his shirt and took another swing. This time, the mans jaw took the brunt of the hit. His assailant let him drop back to the ground then leaned over and spoke in a low, deadly voice. The man nodded, mumbled something unintelligible then just lay there nursing his wounds. Miranda didnt wait to see she what happened next. Scared out of her mind

she ran headlong and heedless back towards the building, sobbing hysterically. Even with the sound of her own crying and her heart thundering in her ears Miranda could hear the heavy footsteps closing in on her.

Two strong arms reached out and wound themselves around her waist, pulling her back against a hard, firm body. Shhhh, its okay, sweetheart, youre safe now.

Why she believed she was any safer being held captive in his arms than the other mans she couldnt say but she stopped fighting and sagged against him. He held her that way for several minutes, crooning softly in her ear that he wouldnt let anyone hurt her. Gently, he turned her in his arms then pulled her close again. Miranda leaned into him, grateful for his warmth and the comfort he gave her as she silently began to cry again. She wanted to sink into him, to stay there forever but all too soon he was easing her away from him. Tipping her head back to see his face was a monumental mistake. She swayed unsteadily and would have fallen backwards if he hadnt caught her and swung her up into his arms.

I think youve had a little too much to drink, he said as he carried her across the parking lot.

Miranda sighed and let her head drop onto his shoulder. I wanted to go home, she whispered hoarsely. Hehe wouldnt let me.

He wont be bothering you again. You shouldnt have come out here alone, he chastised.

I know. Thank you for saving me. She shivered and pressed herself closer to him. Will you call me a taxi? I want to go home. My home.

Im going to take you inside so we can get you warmed up first. When youre feeling a little better, Ill take you home myself.

Miranda went rigid. I want to go home now and I want a taxi.

Well I dont like the idea of sending you home alone in your condition.

Im not drunk, she insisted, but her spinning head told her shed definitely had one too many.

Of course youre not, he laughed softly.

The sound of his laughter was oddly reassuring and she began to relax. Who are you? Do you work for Devlin?

Her rescuer stopped abruptly. You dont know me?

Slowly, Miranda tipped her head back. It was dark and she couldnt quite see him but he seemed familiar. Her eyelids drifted shut and she nuzzled her face in the warmth of his neck. Im not sure, she said sleepily. You look kind of like my boss, are you related?

He started walking again. Im his evil twin brother, Jack.

Through the fog that was quickly filling her head, she had a vague recollection of Holt mentioning a brother though she couldnt remember him saying they were twins. Youre not

evil, she mumbled, youre wonderful. Holt wouldnt have rescued me. He would have told me it was what I deserved.

You must have a pretty low opinion of him if you think that.

Its true, Miranda insisted. I saw the way he looked at me tonight. He thought her voice wobbled, he thought I looked cheap and he was disappointed in me.

Jack stopped and lowered her to the ground, careful to keep a firm hold on her waist. Youre wrong about that, but well talk about it later. He punched a code into the keypad and waited for the click of the locks before pulling it open.

Miranda fought gallantly to keep her eyes open and looked around her. Were at the back of the building. Why are we going in this way?

I didnt think youd want anyone to see me carry you in.

She smiled up at him. That was very sweet of you.

Yeah, thats me, he said dryly, Im the sweetest man alive. He scooped her back up in his arms and walked swiftly to the elevators, leaning down and pressing the button with his elbow. Holt gave me use of his penthouse while Im in town, he explained. Ill take you there until you warm up then ply you with a little coffee before taking you home, okay?

You wont tell him, will you? Hes mad enough about the way I dressed without knowing I drank so much I was nearly She shuddered at what would have happened if Jack hadnt come along.

I wont breathe a word, he promised. He stepped inside the elevator and set her down just long enough to key in the pass code to the penthouse. It was foolish of you to go outside alone, but you didnt deserve to have that man attack you. You seem to think it was your fault somehow.

Maybe not entirely, but we danced earlier and instead of getting angry when he was pawing at me, I tried to laugh it off.

And you think that gave him the right to assault you?

Miranda sighed heavily. No, I guess not.

When the elevator doors opened again, Jack was forced to set her down once more so he could unlock the door. When she insisted she could walk, he simply ignored her and carried her back to the bedroom where he deposited her on the edge of the bed. Kneeling down, he pulled off her shoes and set them aside then took one small foot in his hands and began rubbing warmth back into it.

Mirandas breath caught in her throat. Youyou shouldnt do that.

A smile tugged at the corner of his mouth. I promise its not foreplay, sweetheart. Your toes are frozen and Im just trying to get some circulation going. He moved onto the second foot, thoroughly entranced with her trim ankles and shapely calves. When he was done, he took her hand and rubbed it between his own. Youre so delicate Im scared to even touch you for fear Ill hurt you.

He glanced up her and for the first time Miranda realized just how much he looked like Holt. If his dark hair was smoothed back and he got rid of the silly grin he was wearing, she probably wouldnt have been able to tell them apart. Well, that wasnt entirely true because she couldnt imagine Holt ever dressing the way his brother did. He was wearing a pair of snug jeans and a black t-shirt that conformed to his chest, showing off every corded muscle in a most unsettling way. She was acutely aware of just how masculine he was and felt a strange heaviness pool deep in her abdomen. When his calloused hands moved up her arms, her insides quivered and a slow heat begin to warm her from the inside out.

I feel funny, she said faintly.

Jack arched a brow. Funny?

Here, she rested her hand on her belly.

He fought to keep the smile off his face. What do you think it is? His hands glided slowly up to her shoulders then back down again.

Miranda shivered. I must be getting sick. It feels awfully hot in here.

But your skin is cold.

She met his gaze, and what she saw hidden in their depths sent a million butterflies into flight inside her stomach. Her heartbeat began a steady assent while her breathing slowed until it was practically non-existent. Was it the alcohol that was making her feel so intoxicated or was it Jack? He reached out to brush back a stray lock of hair then gently stroked the side of her face with his fingertips.

So soft, he whispered, so beautiful.

Oh, it was definitely Jack, she thought as his fingers glided down her cheek and curled around the back of her neck. Are you, um, going to

Kiss you?

She nodded.

Do you want me to?

Oh God yes! She nodded again. He pulled her mouth down on to his; slowly, slowly pressing their lips together until they melded into one. The taste of him sent a rush of desire pulsing through her that was heightened by the soft, sensuous raking of his tongue over her teeth. He slanted his head, coaxed her mouth open and deepened the kiss, igniting a passion deep inside of Miranda that she hadnt even known she possessed. It was insane to be kissing a man she didnt even know, even more insane because he was Holts brother. She was in love with Holt and had been almost from the first moment she laid eyes on him. Sobered by her thoughts, she pulled her mouth away from his.

Im sorry, she whispered hoarsely. I cant do this, Jack.

Disappointed but understanding her reluctance, he rose to his feet and offered her his hand. Come on, Ill show you where the bathroom is. You can change out of your clothes and put on the robe thats hanging on the back of the door while I go make some coffee.

She started to protest that she wasnt cold but now that he wasnt touching her the chill was starting to settle back into her bones. Taking his hand, Miranda let him lead her to the bathroom then closed the door behind her with a regretful sigh. She shouldnt have let him kiss her like that, she thought as she worked the zipper down on Bris dress, because now that shed gotten a taste of him, she wanted more. But she had to wonder if it was because his kiss had been so incredible or because he looked so much like Holt she could almost believe it was him. It would be absolutely horrible of her to let him do it again if she wasnt sure. So the only sensible thing to do was make sure it didnt happen again.

She discovered that was easier said than done when she wandered into the kitchen and got an eyeful of his backside. Broad shoulders, a trim waist and jeans that fit as snug across his rear end as her dress had done to hers. The muscles in her abdomen clenched unexpectedly when he turned around and gave her a broad smile.

Feel better now?

She held out her arms so he could see how the sleeves of the robe draped a good six inches past her hands. Its a little too big.

Jack laughed and closed the distance between them in two long strides. Allow me. He rolled the sleeves up, laughing again when he noticed the robe was dragging the floor. Youre drowning in it. You can practically wrap it around you twice.

Its warm though.

He slipped his arms around her waist and gathered her closer. Warm enough? Because Im sure I can get your body temperature up a whole lot faster than that hunk of terrycloth.

The sexual tension hung between them, magnetic and utterly irresistible in spite of her resolve not to kiss him again. She pressed her palms against the hard muscles of his chest and was surprised how rapidly his heart was beating. Was she doing this to him? She lifted her head, green eyes meeting brown, and once again felt a rush of heat as her inner muscles tightened. Whether she made the first move or he did, Miranda didnt know, but the need to feel his mouth on hers was much too strong to question or resist. What started out as a hesitant meeting of the lips turned hot and hungry within seconds and had her clinging to him like a human vine.

She was only vaguely aware that hed lifted her in his arms because his mouth never left hers, but when he eased her back onto the bed and lowered himself over her, she was fully cognizant of the reaction her body had. Jack braced himself on his elbows to keep the bulk of his weight off of her as he continued to kiss her. Even so, she gloried in the way she sank into the soft mattress and the feel of him pressing her deeper and deeper as the urgency of his love making escalated. Shed been kissed before of course, but never like this; never with such fire and passion and unrelenting need. Miranda boldly tugged his shirt loose from his jeans and slid her hand beneath the material then let out a deep, throaty moan when her fingers touched bare skin.

Jack reluctantly lifted his head and waited for her to open her eyes. Hed never seen any woman look as rapturously beautiful as Miranda was at that moment and he wanted nothing more than to strip her naked and bury himself in the warmth of her body. Her face was flushed,

her lips slightly parted, and when her eyelids finally fluttered open and he saw the raw desire reflected in her eyes it took every ounce of strength he had to keep from kissing her again.

I want you, Miranda, more than Ive ever wanted any woman in my life. But you have to know Im not interested in a relationship. I wont fall in love with you, ever, and I want to make sure you understand that before this goes any further. I think making love to you will be the single most pleasurable experience of my life but it wont be anything more than that. He lowered his head and gave her a soft kiss. I dont want you to do this because you think you owe me something eitherbecause of what happened tonight in the parking lot.

Miranda was hardly in a position to maintain any clear thoughts but she did know one thing. She wanted Jack. She wanted him to make love to her and she wanted to fall asleep wrapped in his strong arms and wake up in the morning to his handsome face. And tomorrow when she left him, she could look back on it and see it for what it was; a purely satisfying sexual encounter that theyd both wanted. There would be no guilt afterwards and no strings attached. Maybe he wasnt Holt, but he was as close as she was ever going to get and that was good enough for her. Cupping his face in her hands, she drew him down for a long, lingering kiss.

I am grateful for what you did tonight, but thats not why Im doing this. I want you, Jack. Its as plain and simple as that. Im not asking for forever, Im just asking for tonight.

Youre sure?

A soft smiled curved her lips. Im sure.

Thank God, he sighed as he pulled the tie on her robe loose.

An animalistic growl rumbled deep in his chest when he folded the material back and exposed her naked breasts. They were full and round, as soft as silk, and the little sounds that escaped her lips as he stroked them drove him half mad. Rose colored tips beaded in his mouth, grew even more taut as he lapped his tongued around each one in turn and held them lightly between his teeth. He lavished his full attention on them for quite some time before leaving a trial of kisses down her stomach and across her flat belly. She was everything hed thought shed be and so much more, and Jack couldnt seem to get enough of her.

She cried out his name when he slipped her panties off, her slender thighs quivering when he gently pried them apart to look at her. Her sensitivity to his every touch excited him and he relished each moment. Cupping her bottom in his hands, Jack lifted her hips and lowered his head, tasting the sweetness of her with his tongue. Miranda quivered uncontrollably and tried to wiggle free, but he held her firmly in place, torturing her, reveling in the writhing of her body and the power he had to elicit this kind of reaction from her. He took her to edge and held her there until she was practically hysterical then plunged his finger deep inside and found the one magical spot he knew would send her tumbling over the side.

Miranda would have been horribly embarrassed by the wild gasps and moans that rolled continuously from her throat if she had a mind left with which to form a thought. What he was doing to her was incredible, beyond any pleasure shed ever experienced and when he finally allowed her the release she so desperately needed, she wasnt altogether certain shes survive an entire night with Jack Devlin. She was still wallowing in a mindless stupor when he lifted himself from her and began stripping off his own clothes. Mirandas breath caught at the sight of

his magnificent body, his muscles rippling in the soft light when he returned to her and freed her from the robe.

Unable to resist touching him, she smoothed her hands over his chest, down to his belly and the rigid flesh of his manhood. She smiled up at him then pushed him onto his back. Tonight was about exploring her own sexuality and learning everything she could about a mans body. She wanted to know what made him feel good, what touch would give him the most pleasure, and what would make him react as she had. Miranda maneuvered herself over him, straddling his thighs and ran her hands slowly over his chest. Leaning forward, she kissed the small nipples, nipping and sucking as he had done, then smiling to herself when he groaned.

She touched him everywhere, her fingers light and feathery as they passed over his skin. When she finally worked her way down between his thighs, Jacks breathing became decidedly ragged. She stroked and squeezed, thrilled by the way he grew harder and thicker each time she did. But when she leaned down and timidly took him in her mouth, he nearly came unglued. With a harsh growl he bucked her off of him, rolling so that she was pinned beneath him. His mouth crashed down on hers, all control lost as he kneed her thighs apart. Miranda held her breath, anticipating the pain that was to follow. She supposed she should have told him she was still a virgin, but it was too late now.

Chapter 3
A strangled sob tore from her throat when he thrust into her and buried himself to the hilt. For a moment Jack didnt move. He tried to pull away from her, but she wouldnt have it. Wrapping her legs around his thighs, Miranda kept their bodies locked together and whispered that she wanted him, insisting that he hadnt hurt her though he knew he had. He should have been gentle with her instead of taking her like a sailor back on shore leave after six months at sea. She was so small, so delicate andand shed never been made love to before. A strange sensation tugged at his heart. No man had ever touched her the way he was doing. No man had ever experienced the tight sheathing of her body or the softness of her skin, no man but him.

Jack lowered his mouth to hers, kissing her with great tenderness. He eased his hips back, sank slowly down into her, repeating the gentle motion over and over until she began to thrust back. Gradually, his thrusts grew harder, drove deeper, the perfect rhythm of their bodies sending them soaring higher and higher. Miranda cried out, arching her back as liquid heat exploded from deep inside her and surrounded him with its warmth. She bucked against him, shuddering violently for several minutes before finally falling back against the mattress as if she had no strength left. Jack had never experienced anything like this before. Hed been with more women than he could count but nothing could have prepared him for the pleasure of making love to Miranda or the thunderous climax that ripped through him only seconds after hers had subsided. He collapsed over her, gasping for air and wondering inanely if the earth had really shook or if it only felt as if it had.

Gathering what little power was left in his arms, Jack eased himself out of her and rolled onto his back, pulling her up close to his side. She molded herself to him, resting her head on his

shoulder and draped one arm across his chest. It felt good and right, as if they were made for each other which seemed completely illogical considering how much bigger he was then Miranda. He pressed a kiss to her forehead, breathing in her soft, sweet scent, and regardless of his intentions prior to making love to her, Jack felt extremely possessive of her at that moment. She was his, only his, and hed be damned if he was going to let her go so she could give herself to another man.

Miranda closed her eyes, so completely content she was beside herself. That was incredible, Jack.

His hold on her tightened. I wish you would have told me it was your first time. I was too rough, I hurt you.

Only at first. Everything that followed more than made up for it.

I should have been

Jack, you were perfect. She inched up and kissed him. Turn off the light so we can get some sleep. I want you to make love to me again in the morning.

He did as she asked and turned off the lights but it was a long time before he fell asleep. And he didnt wait until morning to make love to her again, he couldnt. By the time the sun began its slow ascent hed taken her four times and only pure exhaustion kept him from reaching for her a fifth time. He was insatiable and so, it seemed, was she. All he had to do was kiss or caress her for more than a few minutes and she was arching her back, pleading with him to ease the ache hed caused. And she had only to draw her soft hand over his chest or lap her

tongue across his skin and he was on her. Even as sexual as he was hed never made love to a woman more than twice in one night, and the thought crossed his mind that Miranda was all one man would ever need. It should have sobered him, should have made him quake with the implications of what such ideas could mean, but it didnt. And that was the scariest thought of all.

***

Heat stretched all along her backside and for a moment she was confused by it. Then a soft, satisfied smile tipped the corners of her mouth when she remembered how shed spent the night. Carefully, she removed Jacks arm from around her waist and slipped out of bed, glancing back at him with a regretful sigh. One night, thats all shed asked for and all hed promised, and by the looks of it they were well into the next day. Sun filtered through the slats if the blinds, bathing the room in a soft glow. She didnt want to leave. She wanted to crawl back into bed and snuggle up to Jacks muscular body and wait for him to wake up, but she was too afraid of what hed say when he found her still there. Collecting her panties, she made her way silently to the bathroom where shed left the rest of her clothes and dressed hurriedly.

The musky scent of him clung to her skin and the sensuality of the night swept over her in a glorious wave. She looked at herself in the mirror, barely recognizing the reflection that stared back at her. Shed brushed her hair but it still looked a little mussed and her lips seemed full and pouty, swollen no doubt from the hours and hours of amorous kissing. There was a flush to her cheeks, a softness in her eyes, and Miranda felt more feminine than shed ever felt in her life. She wanted to believe all the changes were merely because the sex had been so fantastic but she knew it was more than that.

You cant have feelings for him, she told herself sternly. He made it very clear what he wanted and didnt want and you agreed. Miranda squared her shoulders. Youre an adult, you can handle this.

Tip toeing to the front door, she realized shed have to go down to her office to retrieve her purse and car keys and it occurred to her that none of this would have even happened if shed remembered that before wandering out into the parking lot last night. Thank God shed been too tipsy to think about it! Letting herself out and closing the door softly behind her, Miranda crossed the hall and pressed the button for the elevator. At least she wouldnt have to worry about anyone spotting her emerging from the penthouse elevator because the entire building would be empty except for the security guards. They might be a little curious as to where shed spent the night but shed be back in her work clothes when she left so theyd probably just think she fell asleep at her desk. She hoped.

It would most certainly mean the end of her job if they started a rumor shed been seen coming out of Holts penthouse because everyone would be quick to assume it was him that shed spent the night with. Gnawing at her lip over that particularly disturbing thought, she stepped absently into the elevator and pressed the button for the 10th floor. It seemed to take forever but finally the doors began to slide shut. A large hand shot through the opening just seconds before it closed, causing them to slide back again.

Jacks stare was incredulous. Youre leaving? After the night we had together you just sneak out without so much as a good-bye?

Miranda stood there looking as guilty as she felt. Im sorry, I just wasnt sure what I was supposed to do.

He took her hand and pulled her out of the elevator, enfolding her in his arms. What do you want to do?

Oh no, she said, Im not getting stuck in that trap. What do you want me to do?

Jack chuckled and ushered her inside. I thought that was pretty obvious when I made a mad dash for the elevator in nothing but my shorts.

Miranda surveyed his scantily clothed physique. Are you underdressed or am I overdressed?

A sexy grin spread across Jacks face as he reached for her. Oh, sweetheart, you are definitely way overdressed.

Two hours later, driven by hunger and the desperate need for a shower, they migrated to the kitchen to scavenge for food. Miranda stood in front of the refrigerator shaking her head. Is it you or Holt thats the junk food addict?

Jack peered over her shoulder. Pizza is not junk food. It covers all of the basic food groups; meat, dairy, bread, vegetables.

She pulled out a half empty box of Chinese food and arched a brow. Junk food.

Wrong again. Thats Sesame Chicken with vegetables. Very nourishing.

Uh huh. And this?

Jack eyed the slice of cheesecake with a sheepish grin. It must be Holts; Ive never seen that cake in my life.

I hope you remember to have all this cleaned out before you leave. Holt is very conscientious about his health.

Is that so? And just how do you know that?

Miranda kept her back to him so he wouldnt see that she was blushing. I work with him for eight or more hours a day and usually order his meals, thats how.

He slipped his arms around her waist and nibbled at her neck. You take good care of my brother, does he appreciate it?

He pays me very well, thank you.

Has he ever made a play for you?

Miranda stiffened. Of course not!

Jacks lips slid to the sensitive spot between her neck and shoulder. Why not? Youre a very desirable woman.

Not to him. She swallowed the lump that had lodged itself in her throat.

Does that bother you? He whispered in her ear.

No, why would you think that?

Because you sounded hurt.

Why are we talking about Holt?

I just want to know if theres anything between you and my brother.

She twisted out of his arms. No, theres not.

Jack followed her back to bedroom. Because he wants it that way or because you do?

Miranda started searching for her clothes. This is a ridiculous conversation. First of all, I doubt if I even fit into Holts definition of a woman. Im his assistant and thats all. Secondly, she snatched up her panties and slipped them on under the robe, hes my boss and I wouldnt jeopardize my position there even if he was interested. Liar, the little voice inside her head said accusingly.

Jack grabbed her arm as she reached for her nylons and brought her up hard against his chest. Why are you getting so worked up?

Miranda lifted her chin impudently. Because the questions youre asking are insulting. Obviously, Im not sleeping with the boss, and you of all people should know that. Anyway, why would it even matter? After today we probably wont even see each other again so

We wont?

Why do you sound so surprised? Youre the one who gave the dissertation on why this could never be more than a one time thing.

Jack grinned and slipped his hand beneath her robe to fondle her breast. Maybe Ive changed my mind.

Miranda gaped at him in disbelief. But you said

Never mind what I said, he growled softly, I didnt mean it.

Her pulse quickened when he shoved the robe off her shoulders. Youyou sounded pretty convincing to me, she said weakly. God, would it always be like this; so sensual, so consuming?

I did mean it at the time. He pushed his boxers down and eased her back onto the bed. But that was before I got inside of you. Junk food isnt the only thing Ive become addicted to.

She let out a deep sigh when he her panties off and plunged into her with a heavy thrust. Theres more to Mirandas fingers gripped his shoulder as the now familiar heat began to build, to a relationship than just great sex, she finished.

Yes, and I intend to have it all. He stopped moving and gazed into her eyes. I want to be with you, Miranda, outside the bedroom and in. I want to take you to dinner, go to the movies or the park, talk about anything, everything, it doesnt matter.

She wound her arms around his neck, smiling beguilingly. Arent you afraid youll fall in love with me?

Terrified, he admitted with a laugh.

And youre willing to take that chance anyway?

What can I say? Im addicted, and as you know Im very, very weak when it comes to my addictions.

How could she not be flattered by that? Miranda pulled his head down until their lips were nearly touching. Okay, but on one condition.

He arched his brows in amusement. And what would that be?

That you feed and water me at least every five or six hours.

***

Come on, just try it, Jack insisted, waving a piece of pizza in front of her face.

Miranda tossed him a look of total disgust. Im not eating that, its a meat-lovers pizza for Petes sake! Its loaded with carbs and calories and no doubt contains twenty different kinds of preservatives.

Hey now, lets not be insulting. This happens to be made with one hundred percent fresh ingredients. Why they probably raise the livestock out back and

Miranda leaned over and covered his mouth with her hand. Jack Devlin, thats just horrible.

He flicked his tongue against her palm then laughed when she yanked it away. Look, you little hypocrite, I know you eat steak and hamburgers and bacon so how can you pretend a pizza with more than one kind of meat is bad for you? Expand your horizons a little bit. He lifted the pizza to her lips. Do it for me?

Her heart melted at the puppy dog look he gave her. She folded like a house of cards and opened up for him, intending to take the smallest of nibbles. Jack, however, wanted to make sure she got the full affect and shoved in a good portion of the pizza just as she chomped down. Flavor exploded in her mouth as the meats, cheese, sauce and spices combined together to form one heavenly sensation of taste inside her mouth. Before she could stop herself, a small sound of pleasure pushed its way up from the back of throat triggering an I-told-you-so grin from Jack. Miranda pretended not to notice the grin or the laughter that followed when she plucked the pizza from his hand and devoured it with enthusiasm.

Ordering the pizza had been Jacks idea, spreading a blanket out in the living room and eating it picnic style was Mirandas. It was the first meal theyd had all day even though shed been famished shed been reluctant to eat something that could only bring on a bucket load of guilt later. Shed never had a weight problem but she contributed that to a healthy eating style and regular exercise but now she wondered how many other wonderful culinary delights awaited her in the wide world of junk food. She was just contemplating splitting the piece of cheesecake when she noticed Jack was eyeing her with a rather somber look on his face.

Jack, is something wrong?

Yesmaybe not, but

Miranda laughed nervously. You havent changed your mind again have youabout us, I mean?

No, not all. I was just thinking about the first time I made love to you.

It was so long ago I can hardly remember, she teased.

Jacks smile didnt quite reach his eyes. What I was thinking about was that we didnt use protection that first time.

Mirandas eyes widened. Oh Jack, I didnt knowI mean I should have asked or thought about it or told you I wasnt on the pill

He leaned over and kissed her. Im not blaming you. Hell, if anyone should have known better it was me but I didnt have a thought it my head but getting inside of you.

Mentally, she counted back the days. I should be safe. My cycle is due to start in five or six days so theres only a slim chance I could beyou know.

Pregnant, he said, wrapping his arm around her and pulling her closer. Its okay to say it out loud, the damage has already been done if you are.

Im not, Miranda told him confidently. Id know it if I was.

Jack couldnt help laughing. Somehow I dont think it works like that, sweetheart. He cupped her chin and tilted her head back, locking his eyes with hers. It wouldnt be the end of the world if you were.

She didnt know quite how to take that, but the tenderness in his voice made her believe he wasnt entirely appalled by the idea. Im not, she repeated.

He nodded slowly but didnt let it drop. If you were though, Id be there for you. You and the baby.

Miranda moved away from him and starting piling the dishes up to carry to the kitchen. You shouldnt make promises you cant possibly keep.

What makes you so sure I couldnt?

The truth? Jack, you consider spending more than one night with a woman making a serious commitment. Marriage and babies and being there for each other just dont seem to fit in with your image.

What image is that? Great sex aside, we hardly know each other.

Miranda felt the sting of that one right down to her toes. Youre right, we dont know each other. I suppose it was a bit unfair of me to equate you with how I think Holt would handle things. Actually, it was horrendously unfair considering how different I am from my own sister.

The one who loaned you the slinky dress?

She shot him a wilting look. Yes, thank you for reminding me.

He helped her carry the plates and leftovers into the kitchen and set them on the counter. Whats she like?

Bri? What can I say, Brianne is pretty much everything Im not.

Tall, blonde, and stupid?

Miranda threw a dish towel at him which he caught in mid-air. Im sure theres a compliment in there somewhere, she said caustically. And no, shes not any of those things. Were about the same height and build, but shes got auburn hair and blue eyes. Men go crazy over her, but I cant really blame them. Shes got a bubbly personality, is very confident in everything she does and shes smart as a whip. Men, women, children, cats and dogs, they all love Brianne.

Does that bother you?

She rinsed off her plate and stuck it in the dishwasher then reached for Jacks plate. Oh that doesnt bother me at all. Im proud of my sister and the fact that everyone adores her as much as I do. Its just that sometimes she gets it in her head that I should be more outgoing like she is. She cant believe Im happy with who I am and feel no need to be the center of attention where ever I go.

Ah, that explains the dress.

She closed the dishwasher and started it up. Yes, and you can see how disastrously my trying to act like Bri turned out.

Ouch, that was quite an ego buster.

Miranda laughed and wrapped her arms around his waist. I wasnt talking about you. Thats the one thing that went absolutely right. I was talking about Holts reaction to it and what happened in the parking lot.

Im sure youre wrong about Holt.

Her throat constricted when she recalled just how adversely the change in her appearance had affected Holt. You didnt see his face, Jack. He was downright angry with me and he sounded soharsh. I know he gets pretty gruff with other people but hes never talked to me that way. It really hurt my feelings.

Im sorry, sweetheart, he said earnestly. Would it help if I had a talk with him?

No! Im embarrassed enough as it is. I just hope he has such a wonderful week he will have forgotten all about it by the time we get back to work.

I hate to burst your bubble, Miranda, but theres no way in hell any red blooded male could forget how you looked in that thing. Trust me, baby, if he was angry it was probably because you had him so hot he couldnt see straight and since he considers you off limits, it had to have been pretty frustrating for him.

If only that were true, she thought, then quickly chastised herself for it. Jack was a wonderful man and he certainly saw her as a woman, something Holt seemed incapable of

doing. It was rotten of her to regret not being able to have a relationship with Holt when Jack was right here offering her something hed never offered any woman before.

Regardless of what he thought or if he feels the need to address it next week, I dont want you talking to him about it. Ill simply tell him the truth. I was running late and had to rely on Bri to bring me a dress. Her choice was unfortunate but it was too late for me to do anything about it.

Jack cupped her face in his hands. Well I dont think it was unfortunate. I think you look beautiful in it; stylish and classy and sexy as hell. Of course, now that youre mine I absolutely forbid you to wear it out in public.

And you call me a hypocrite, she giggled.

I admit it freely. I dont want you to wear anything but turtle necks and baggy pants from now on.

If youre serious, you may actually like my wardrobe. Im afraid Im pretty conservative.

Conservative isnt a bad thing if you dont take it too far. Ill tell you what. Let me take you shopping and buy you something.

Jack, I couldnt. And anyway, its New Years Day, nothing is open.

Tomorrow then. Well get up early and make a day of it. We can take a drive down to the beach, hit a few upscale clothing boutiques, and have a nice dinner afterwards. What do you say?

I dont need you to pay for my clothes, Jack.

I didnt say you did but Im going to do it anyway. And before you try to dissuade me, I think theres a few things we need to come to an understanding about. He gathered her closer, lowering his head so they were cheek to cheek. Im crazy about you, Miranda, and I want to do this for you. Ive never been one to buy women jewelry or expensive clothes before. As a matter of fact, it irked me that it seemed to be expected of me if I dated a woman for any length of time. Consequently, I kept my affairs brief and unemotional. He drew his head back so she could see the honesty of his words in his eyes. I dont feel that way about you. Just the opposite, I want to take care of you. I want to dress you in beautiful things and make your life as happy as youre making mine.

Tears misted her eyes. It was the sweetest thing anyone had ever said to her and coming from a man like Jack whod never ventured into the world of relationships, it was doubly touching. He was offering her the moon and the stars and she wanted so much to accept it because she did have feelings for him, but her hearther heart still belonged to Holt.

Chapter 4
Miranda? Do you have a problem with a man spending money on you?

I dont know, its never happened before.

Jack couldnt have been happier. Good, that will be two things Ive gotten to do with you that no other man has.

Youre a bad man, Jack Devlin. She laced her arms around his neck, a devilish gleam dancing in her eyes. If I let you do this and you end up dumping me, do I get to keep the clothes?

Who says Ill be the one doing the dumping? Im not always this easy to get along with, you know. I have a very demanding job and am usually wound up tighter than a clock when I get home. I like everything to be done my way and can be quite a bear if it doesnt happen the way I want it to.

Miranda stood on her toes and trailed kisses along his jaw. I think I can find ways to appease your sour disposition when it rears its ugly head.

A masculine groan caught and held in his throat when she pressed her soft lips to his chest. Heaven help him, but he wanted her again. Lifting her in his arms, Jack carried her back to the bedroom. Long after shed fallen asleep in his arms, he lay in the darkness staring at the shadows on the ceiling. Hed been so sure of himself that first time, so damn certain he could make love to her then just walk away. He should have known it would be different with

Miranda. After all, she was hardly the type of woman he usually spent time with. Maybe thats why she was so special to him.

Jack turned his head towards her and drew in a long, slow breath. He loved the way she smelled. Hell, he loved everything about her; the color of her eyes, her beautiful smile, how easily she made him laugh. Laughter was something that had been lacking in his life for a very long time and in just one day Miranda had managed to make him feel young and light hearted again. How could he ever have thought any of those other women had satisfied him or made him happy? Theyd been nothing but warm, willing bodies, someone to pass the time with but hed never really shared himself with them. Not like he did with Miranda.

But what would happen when the week was up and he had to go back to his real life, the one without Miranda filling his days and nights? He didnt want to think about it, but of course he had to. He couldnt keep having her stay here and he didnt want to impose on her by staying at her place. Not that hed mind, but he didnt want to presume too much especially this early in their relationship. Jack almost laughed out loud. A few days ago that word would have sent him running as far and fast as he could, now all he could think about was how to make it work. It would require a lot of fancy footwork on his part and he didnt relish the idea of deceiving her but neither could he bear the thought of losing her.

***

Im a little nervous, she admitted as they turned off the highway. Ive never had anyone but family over to my house before.

Why not?

Miranda shrugged. I didnt want people to get the wrong impression about how I live. It was just easier that way and I didnt have to worry about explaining anything.

Youre starting to sound very mysterious, honey.

Sorry, I dont mean to sound that way. Its the house. Not everyone is born into money, you know, and sometimes

Jack reached across the seat and took her hand. You dont have to explain anything to me, Miranda. Not everyone judges other people by how much money they haveor dont have. I was fortunate enough to have parents who were in a financial position to help me get my business off the ground but I realize not everyone has the same opportunities I had. What Im trying to say is that you dont need to be embarrassed about anything.

Miranda smothered the giggle that bubbled up in her throat. So you wouldnt be ashamed to be with me even though were on a different social level?

Id never be ashamed of you. You could outclass those high society snobs any day of the week. He glanced over at her but she was looking out the window almost as if she didnt want him to see her face. God, he didnt want money to be an issue between them. Miranda? Does it bother you that I have money?

No. I just dont want you to think you need to buy me things to make me happy.

See, thats where you have it backwards. Buying you things will make me happy.

Its the next exit, she told him. Turn right when you get to the end of the off ramp. Youll take another right about a half mile down.

Jacks brows drew together. He tried to recall if there was a middle class district in this area but he certainly didnt think there was. He knew the area fairly well because a lot of his wealthier clients lived here and hed even considered purchasing a house on the beach himself but never seemed to find the time to go look at what was available. A few minutes later, he was even more perplexed than ever when he made the right hand turn and started up a steep incline. There was only one house up this way that he knew of and though hed never been there before it was hard to miss. It was a monstrous thing built high up on the cliffs overlooking the ocean and it was rumored the woman who lived there was a recluse who never left her house. When he reached the huge wrought iron gates that guarded the entrance, he put his truck in park and turned to face her.

Okay, Miranda, whats going on? Is this a joke? Are you really so afraid Id look down on you for living in a small house or apartment that youd bring me here?

I never said I lived in small house. I said I didnt want people to get the wrong impression about how I live. She nodded to the gate. People can be very judgmental and even intimidated by great wealth. When I graduated college and went to look for a job, I didnt want to get hired because of my familys name but because of my education and skills.

Jack peered out the windshield at the gate. Embossed in gold was the name Carrington. The Carrington Mansion, he said, suddenly recalling why it seemed familiar to him. Ive heard stories about a woman who lives alone up here, a recluse who never leaves and

is rumored to be He stopped abruptly, embarrassed by what he was about to say but Miranda just flashed one of her brilliant smiles.

Crazy? I suppose she seems that way to people who dont know her, but shes really just a bit of a free spirit.

Your mother?

No, my parents live in Europe. Missy Carrington is my grandmother. Legally the mansion belongs to me. She deeded it to me several years ago because she said I was the only one who didnt look at her like shed lost her mind and she trusts me not to have her carted off to a mental institution.

Do the other members of your family want her committed?

Miranda laughed. No, theyve been around her long enough to know she just marches to the beat of a different drum but she makes them nervous so theyd rather not be around her.

Is she the reason you never bring anyone here?

Yes, but not because Im ashamed for them to know shes my grandmother. I love Missy with all my heart. But like I said, people can be very judgmental and I just cant take the chance theyd say something to upset her. It doesnt help that Missy likes to shock people with outlandish remarks.

So you brought me here to be shocked by your grandmothers eccentric behavior, he teased.

In a manner of speaking, I guess. You said you wanted to be with me, to be a part of my life. Missy is very important to me and as long as shes alive Ill be there to make sure shes taken care of. That means occasionally youll have to spend time with her too. I just thought it would be better for you to meet her now before things got too involved. If you cant handle being around her, Ill understand, but that also means you and I will have to go our separate ways.

Loyalty to your family is a very admirable quality, Miranda. As for you and me going our separate ways, its going to take a lot more than a few shocking remarks from your grandmother to do the trick.

Last chance to bail, she warned.

Jack leaned over and kissed her. Youre stuck with me. Now, what secret incantations do I have to mutter in order to get that gate to open?

Just press the red button. A few seconds later a mans voice came through the speaker and asked how he could help them. Its me, Jeeves, open up.

Thats not your vehicle.

Miranda rolled her eyes. Im with a friend.

There was a short pause then, He doesnt look friendly. Are you being held against your will?

Beside her, Jack was doing his best not to laugh but Miranda was getting agitated. Her family was peculiar enough but to have the hired help keep her locked out of her own house was

just downright embarrassing. She scooted closer to Jack and leaned over towards the security camera that was mounted next to the speaker.

Jeeves, can you see me clearly?

His response was indignant. Of course, this is a top notch system and you know it.

To Jacks surprise, and pleasure, she curled her fingers around the back of his neck and pulled his mouth down onto hers. For several extremely satisfying minutes he forgot all about Jeeves and Missy or where they were. All he concerned himself with was the taste of her mouth and the electrical current that seemed to be flowing from head to toe. Her eyes were soft and dreamy when she drew away and it struck him hard that he might never have known this raw emotion, this yearning for so much more if it hadnt been for Miranda.

She leaned over him again. Satisfied Im not being held against my will?

A simple no would have sufficed, he said stiffly.

After the gate swung open and Jack had driven through he had to ask, Jeeves?

Thats not his real name, if thats what youre wondering. Years ago, Missy heard the name while watching a news report about the internet. Jeeves is a search engine but the little picture on the home page looks like an uptight English butler and she was so adamant that her own butler, Mr. Stanley, had posed for it that she started calling him Jeeves. Jacks booming laughter filled the cab of the truck, making her laugh too.

This is going to be quite an adventure, he said as they pulled up to the front of the mansion.

Its very entertaining here if nothing else. She slipped her hand into his as they took the stone walkway up to the porch then waited for the door to open. Hell take his time, she told Jack. Paybacks for the kiss.

Is this how all your grandmothers employees treat you?

Miranda giggled. Good Lord, her family was a mess. Jeeves isnt an employee exactly. Well, technically he is because I keep him on the payroll. The truth is, Missy and Jeeves are having a secret love affair and have been for the past ten years.

Jack was really beginning to be intrigued by Miranda and her crazy family. How secret can it be if you know about it?

Oh, everyone in the family knows about it, we just pretend we dont because it would upset Missy. You see, it wouldnt be considered proper for her to be involved with the hired help. Besides, it would probably take all the fun out of it for Missy if we told her we knew. I think its incredibly romantic. They have their stolen moments and secret trysts and we have the comfort of knowing she has someone who loves her keep her company and watch over her.

Youre an amazing woman, Miranda Carrington. You live in two entirely different worlds and handle them both equally well; the hard working, prim and proper office assistant and the granddaughter who not only indulges her grandmothers eccentricities but genuinely loves

her in spite of them. He drew her into his arms, intent on kissing her when the door was yanked open.

Jeeves arched a brow at the two of them then directed his comment to Miranda. Are you coming in or do you intend to stand on the porch all day making out with your friend?

She looked absolutely mortified but Jack merely grinned at the staid butler. If my vote counts, you can just go ahead and close the door again.

Jeeves seemed to assess Jack for a moment before tipping his head in grudging approval. Welcome to Carrington Manor. If Miss Miranda will escort you to the parlor, Ill have refreshments brought in and inform Mrs. Carrington youre here.

Jack had grown up around wealth and had lived in some very elegant houses during his lifetime, but never had he seen anything as elegant as the Carrington Mansion. Every painting and piece of furniture had been crafted by masters and was obviously tended to with the greatest of care. Just past the large foyer theyd entered was a magnificent marble staircase that dominated the room. He followed Miranda off to the left and through a set of massive oak doors into what he assumed was the parlor. The main focal point of the parlor was a massive fireplace that was almost as tall as he was and at least six feet wide. He would have loved to study the woodwork on the mantle but Miranda was urging him towards a seating area that was nestled in an alcove in which a loveseat and two chairs faced a set of French doors leading out to an expansive flower garden.

Not in a million years would I have guessed you lived in a place like this, he said, his eyes still wandering around the room.

Why, because I work for your brother as a mere assistant? He pays me quite well, you know.

I never said that. And I hardly consider you a mere anything. Youre exceptional at your job, the best assistant Holt has ever had. What I meant was that you dont act like the typical spoiled little rich girl. His eyes swept over the business suit shed retrieved from her office and changed into before they left. Expensive, tasteful clothing but you get paid well enough to afford those. You dont wear flashy jewelry or drive an excessively expensive car. Youre just so grounded for someone who grew up like this.

You were born into it too, Jack, and youre certainly not arrogant or act as if youre above anyone else.

Yes, but I didnt live in a house of intrigue with a grandmother who was doing the butler on the sly.

Miranda burst out in a fit of wild giggles and tried to bury her face in his chest to muffle the sound, but every time she thought she had herself under control hed whisper in her ear and detail some obscene scenario about where Jeeves and Missy were meeting and just what they were doing. She should have been appalled, after all it was her grandmother they were talking about, but she couldnt seem to help herself. It felt good to laugh and even better to have someone to share that laughter with. She managed to compose herself just seconds before her grandmother swept regally into the room.

Miranda, darling, I was beginning to worry about you. You havent been home for two nights and you didnt even bother to call. Her eyes moved over Jack, an impish grin forming on her lips. But now that I see whats kept you away, I completely forgive you.

Jack took the hand the elderly woman offered then gallantly bowed and brushed a light kiss across her knuckles. Its very nice to meet you, Mrs. Carrington. Im Jack Devlin. I hope you dont mind, but Id planned on taking Miranda for a ride down the coast and then out to dinner.

Please, call me Missy. Miranda, dear, why dont you change your clothes and gather whatever you need for your outing while this handsome young man takes a stroll in the garden with me.

Seeing the guarded look on Mirandas face, Jack offered a reassuring smile before telling Missy hed be honored to accompany her. She slipped her hand through the arm he crooked after hed opened the doors to the garden and together they proceeded down a path lined with roses of varying colors. She more or less let him wander down whichever side paths he wanted to for a while then motioned to a bench that was positioned beneath the shade of a tree. Once they were seated, she took a moment to give him an appraising sweep with her eyes. Her face was withered with time, but he could tell shed been quite a beauty in her youth and it was easy to see where Miranda got her looks.

Tell me Jack Devlin, just what are your intentions towards my granddaughter?

Jack couldnt quite contain his smile. I intend to make her happy for one thing.

Shes a wonderful girl, I dont want to see her get hurt.

Then we agree on that, because I dont want her to get hurt either.

You must be very important to her if she brought you back here. I assume you two have slept together?

Even having been forewarned, her question caught him off guard. IweI mean

Missy smiled knowingly and patted his arm. Good, its about time that girl found herself a lover. And I must say she certainly didnt settle for second best. Youre a very striking young man, Jack Devlin, and Im sure you could have your choice of women so tell me why youre with Miranda when its so obvious shes not your type.

Youre wrong about that, Miranda is exactly the type of woman I want to be with. I just didnt know it until now.

Missy beamed at him. She is pretty special, isnt she?

Very special.

Youre not after her money are you?

Jack laughed. You dont pull any punches, do you Missy?

Not where my granddaughter is concerned.

I promise you Im not after her money. As a matter of fact, I didnt even know she had any until we drove up to the mansion and I made the family connection. I own a very successful business but my finances werent a concern even before the company became profitable.

Missy seemed satisfied with his answer. She eyed him for a moment then pursed her lips. If you get her pregnant, youll have to marry her. Im very liberal on the whole sex before marriage thing, but I wont have you getting my granddaughter pregnant then abandoning her.

Jack had to bite the insides of his cheeks to sober himself. Missy was delightfully straight forward and he found it refreshing, but her pointed statements tickled him and he had to work hard not to howl with laughter each time she posed a new one. He nodded thoughtfully, stalling for time until he could respond with some semblance of gravity.

Were taking precautions, I assure you, but in the event Miranda was to get pregnant Id most definitely marry her.

Pleased by his answer, she stood up. Wed better get back before Miranda comes looking for us. Shes probably worried Ill scare you off but Ive barely even ruffled you, have I?

Jack rose to his feet and offered her his arm. Was it your intent to scare me off?

Not entirely. I was really hoping I wouldnt, but of course I had to put you to the test. Miranda needs a strong man, one who can stand on his own and wont be afraid to stand up for her. The poor thing is painfully shy and takes things to heart so easily. Now Bri, I never have

to worry about. Ive never seen two sisters so different. I love them both, of course, but Miranda is my favorite.

She told me you were very close. She also told me if you and I didnt get along, shed drop me like a hot potato.

She didnt! Missy acted shocked but was obviously pleased to know she held such an important position in her granddaughters life.

She most certainly did, but I admire her for being so loyal to you. So tell me, Missy, how do I stay in your good graces so I can continue to date Miranda?

Make her happy, young man.

Jack smiled confidently. If thats all it takes, you and I shall get along famously.

***

She waited until they were on the coastal highway to ask. How awful was it?

Jack shrugged. Not too bad, though I can now sympathize with the victims of the Spanish Inquisition.

Miranda grimaced but managed to refrain from groaning out loud. Go ahead, lay it on me.

Jack couldnt help himself. She told me if I got you pregnant Id have to marry you.

This time the groan erupted before she could stop it. Tell me you didnt admit we were sleeping together.

Not outright but my stuttering pretty much gave it away.

Mirandas eyes widened, though she wasnt entirely surprised. She asked you point blank?

Does Missy ask any question in a manner that isnt point blank?

Unfortunately, no. She couldnt have been too hard on you though.

What makes you say that? He thought the old bird had done a pretty good grilling job.

You didnt suddenly remember an appointment and race for the door.

Thats because she threw me for such a loop I couldnt think straight. He reached out and took Mirandas hand when she glanced at him sharply then turned her face to the window. Sweetheart, I was just kidding. You dont honestly believe anything your grandmother said could change the way I feel about you, do you?

I wasnt sure. She can be pretty blunt sometimes in the things she says. Ive never brought anyone home to meet her before so I didnt really know what to expect.

I know, she said you didnt date much.

Good Lord, is there anything she didnt tell you?

Jack grinned. Yeah, but in her defense we didnt have much time.

Ill have to remember that and keep our visits short and sweet. So where are you taking me?

First stop, a lovely boutique called Elizabeths.

Jack, I told you not to buy me things.

No, he corrected, you told me I didnt have to buy you things. Let me do this for you, Miranda. No offense, sweetheart, but Id like to see you in something besides beige, black, or brown.

Miranda looked down at the chocolate colored shirt and beige slacks she had on. I guess I do look a bit drab, she frowned.

You look beautiful, but youll look even better once we liven up your wardrobe. So tell me more about your family. Why do your parents live in Europe and how come your sister doesnt live at the mansion?

Carrington Cosmetics is based in the south of France and my father got tired of traveling back and forth. And since my mother adores the French Riviera, she didnt put up a fuss about staying there.

Do you miss them?

I suppose. They were always jetting off somewhere so we got used to their long absences. We traveled with them pretty frequently when we were younger but as we got older

being pulled out of school and away from our friends wore on us. Bri became quite vocal about it so they relented and let us move in with Missy.

Did Bri get along with your grandmother?

Not as well as I did. Bri is so vibrant and was always running a million miles a minute so she didnt always have the calming effect on Missy that I did.

Jack nodded, understanding perfectly. Miranda had that same calming effect on him too, which was one of the things that made being with her so enjoyable. He didnt have to try to impress her and knew shed never get upset if he didnt take her to the most posh restaurants or prestigious social events. He could simply be himself and go whichever way the wind blew them because she was content just to be with him. The women he usually dated were always overly concerned about where he was taking them and who would be there to see them on his arm. And if he left their side for any length of time, they hunted him down and pouted about being neglected. He used to think it was flattering that a woman was so enamored of him she couldnt bear to be separated even for a short period, but after awhile he realized it was because their status at these events dwindled to nothing unless people recognized they were with him.

He thought of Miranda and how it would feel to walk in with her by his side. She certainly wouldnt have to hunt him down because Jack was pretty damn sure hed never let her out of his sight. If someone had told him even a week ago that hed be spending twenty-four hours a day with one woman and thinking it wasnt nearly long enough, hed have laughed his ass off. If theyd told him hed not only be accompanying her on a shopping spree and footing the bill, but was actually looking forward to it hed have told them all they were crazy. But here

he was heading to Elizabeths Boutique after having spent the past three nights and two days with Miranda and he couldnt have been more content. No, content was too tame a word for what he was feeling. Happy, exhilarated, ecstatic, and it was all because of the woman beside him.

Chapter 5
Elizabeths hadnt been open for more than twenty minutes by the time they pulled into the parking lot but already there were several women browsing around the exclusive shop when they stepped inside. Jack left Miranda to admire a collection of silk blouses while he went in search of the boutiques owner, Elizabeth Russell. Hed known her for years and simply adored the vivacious woman but there had never been anything romantic between them. Beth only had eyes for Jacks corporate attorney and good friend, Dave Russell. Hed wanted to take Miranda some place that offered only the finest of clothing and knew there were very few shops that could top Elizabeths. But the real reason hed brought her here was because he knew he could trust Beth to cover for him and not to let the cat out of the bag. She probably wouldnt approve, but shed never betray him.

Jack caught Beths arm just as she was coming out of the back room and whisked her off to a corner behind the counter so they wouldnt get interrupted by customers. She gave him a big hug before teasing him about being there since she knew his aversion for such feminine places. He took her ribbing good naturedly knowing full well he was going to get more of the same and probably worse when Dave found out hed been there and why. Casting a furtive glance at Miranda, Jack explained what was going on then begged her not to expose him when she looked at him like hed lost his mind. As he knew she would, Beth finally relented and told him to take Miranda back to one of the dressing rooms.

Miranda didnt miss the familiar way the stunning blonde hugged Jack or how close they stood as they huddled in a corner behind the counter. She told herself it was ridiculous to be jealous, that she couldnt possibly care enough about him after only a few days to warrant this

kind of a response. Even so, when he leaned down and kissed the blue-eyed beauty on the cheek, a sharp pain twisted her gut. Miranda had no illusions about herself. Not even on her best day could she compete with a woman who looked like that and she was suddenly very conscience of her appearance and the nondescript clothing she was wearing. No wonder Jack wanted to buy her new things if this woman was indicative of the female companionship he was used to; quite simply he was embarrassed by Miranda and her drab wardrobe.

Her cheeks were burning by the time Jack headed back her way and all she wanted to do was duck into one of the dressing rooms and hide. Why was he with her anyway? He was charming, devastatingly handsome, wealthy, a fantastic lover and he could have any woman he wanted. Miranda wasnt even in the same league as the woman hed been cozying up to and she certainly didnt possess the social skills necessary to accompany him to the exclusive parties he surely attended. Standing there in her chocolate blouse and beige slacks with her hair falling unstylishly straight over her shoulders she felt like Cinderellaafter the ball!

Ready, sweetheart?

Miranda started, unaware that Jack had been standing beside her. Well II havent really had a chance to look for anything. She glanced around, feeling hopelessly out of her realm. Maybe we should just go.

Jack was confused by her sudden discomfort and the way she was acting as if she was going to bolt out of there any second. I dont understand. Why do you want to go without even giving the place a chance?

Look Jack, I know youre used to being with sophisticated women who dress like fashion models so Im sure its just as embarrassing for you to be seen with me as

Embarrassed? Why the hell would I be embarrassed?

Oh please, Jack, I saw you with that woman. Thats the type youre used to; tall and sleek and dressed to the nines. Miranda was dangerously close to tears so it didnt sit very well with her when Jack threw his head back and started laughing. And just what is so funny Jack Devlin?

You are, honey. Jack drew her into his arms, still chuckling. Miranda, baby, listen to me. You can wear anything you want, wear a gunnysack if it makes you feel comfortable. Personally, I prefer you in nothing at all but regardless of what you wear or dont wear, I think youre just about the most beautiful woman Ive ever met.

You dont mean that.

I do mean that. I swear I just wanted to do something nice for you, something Id never done for any other woman.

Miranda eyed him skeptically. If youve never done this for another woman before, how come that sales lady seemed to know you so well? Or is she one of your former lovers?

Oh my, he grinned, the green in your eyes is starting to spread to the rest of your body.

Dont be so full of yourself, Jack.

He pulled her a little closer. Youre jealous, admit it.

Im not jealous, and youre just trying to avoid my question.

Beth is the wife of my corporate lawyer, who also happens to be a very good friend. I brought you here because I knew shed take good care of you. Its not a sin to be fashion challenged, sweetheart. I havent always been this dashing, you know. It took a lot of work to learn just the right shirt to wear with blue jeans.

Miranda found herself smiling at his gentle teasing. So maybe I was just a teeny tiny bit jealous. I just dont want you to be ashamed to be seen with me.

His face softened. If I was even the slightest bit ashamed of you, would I do this?

Her stomach did a wild flip when he dipped his head and caught her up in hard, passionate kiss. Strong arms crushed her to his chest as his mouth did a very thorough exploration, and though she was sure the world went on around them she wasnt aware of anything but the way he was making her feel right now. He released her on shaky legs and seemed quite satisfied with the results of his kiss when she followed him demurely to the dressing room.

The next two hours were a flurry of activity as clothes were brought in, tried on, modeled for Jack, then either taken away or placed to the side to be purchased. Beth attended them personally and Miranda grudgingly admitted the woman knew what she was doing. She didnt try to pass off clothes that fit her own taste, which was chic but a little too bold for Miranda. Instead Beth brought things that were simple but elegant, colorful but not loud, and was

geared towards Mirandas conservative nature. True, at Jacks urging the necklines were a little more daring than she was used to and the material more form fitting, but the way he looked at her in each new outfit she paraded for him made her lose some of her inhibitions.

Im exhausted, she announced as they piled the boxes and bags in the back of his truck.

Jack secured everything with a cargo net then opened her door and lifted her in. I promise to take you for a nice relaxing lunch and for the rest of the day we wont do anything more strenuous than kiss. Besides, I want you rested for this evening.

Miranda gave him a sexy smile. Why, what have you got planned for this evening?

Not what youre thinking, at least not until later. Im going to wine and dine you then take you dancing so you can wear one of those pretty new dresses I got you.

She bit her lip, a worried frown creasing her forehead. I shouldnt have let you spend that much. I do have money of my own, you know.

Oh, no you dont, he said, strapping her into the seat. Were not going to argue over the money issue again. Look, I make an extremely good living and what I laid down in there is nothing compared to what I spend putting on lavish parties I dont even enjoy myself at. Now be a good girl and stop getting so worked up over it.

She waited until he climbed back in and they were back on the highway to ask, You never said what you did for a living.

I own a company.

I could have figured that out on my own. What kind of company? Where is it located?

Jack considered adding a small white lie to the ones hed already told then dismissed it. The closer he kept to the truth, the less likely he was to stumble over it later. Its an import/export company.

So youre in direct competition with Devlin Shipping? Her eyes narrowed. Are you telling the truth because I know all our main competitors and their owners and your name hasnt ever come up.

Thats because Im not in competition with Devlin. As a matter of fact were located in the same city as Holts company.

How come Holt never mentioned it to me?

I doubt he talks much about me at all, am I right?

No he doesnt. Dont you get along with each other?

Actually were very close. Holt just doesnt like talking about family. He doesnt like anyone knowing his personal business and we both learned long ago that anything we say about friends or family can get misconstrued and thrown back at us so were both pretty tight lipped that way.

Tabloids you mean?

Tabloids, newspapers, the high society grape vine. They all like to latch onto a tiny piece of gossip and nurture it until its a full blown scandal. Twisting our words seems to be a favorite with them so we just dont give them any ammunition. How is it youve managed to stay out of the lime light anyway? Surely the gossip hounds have staked out the manor and tried to catch you coming or going.

Not really, its Missy that theyre interested in and since she never leaves the manor theres no food for their feeding frenzy. They figured out pretty quickly that I live a boring little life and lost interest in me years ago. Occasionally Bri will caught at a night club or something but she adores being the center of attention so it never bothers her.

But it bothers you, doesnt it?

Miranda shrugged. A little, I guess.

Being seen with me is going draw attention, are you sure youre up to that?

Miranda smoothed her fingers over the pastel colored sundress hed bought her. Only if you promise not to forget my name when they ask who I am.

Jack grinned. Melinda, right?

Thats right, Jerkur Jack, I mean.

Careful, sweetheart, my ego is very fragile.

Miranda rolled her eyes. I highly doubt the name Devlin and fragile have ever been used in the same sentence before. Ego, definitely, but not fragile.

Ouch, the rose has thorns. Was it the shopping spree that brought out the sass in you or the fact we havent eaten lunch yet?

Its your own fault, you know. You did promise to water and feed me every five or six hours and its hitting the six hour mark now.

Theres a great seafood restaurant just a few miles down the road. Well grab something to eat then get settled at the beach house and tomorrow we can go sailing if you want.

She probably should have pretended to be at least a little indignant when he just assumed she was spending the night with him but hed have seen through it in a heartbeat. Making love with Jack had been the most pleasurable experience of her life and she wasnt about to pass up the chance to share that intimacy with him again. She knew he was only staying at Holts place for a week but hed never told her where he called home. Mirandas brows drew together. If Jacks company was in the same city as Devlin Shipping, it only stood to reason he lived nearby.

Jack, can I ask you something?

Sure.

Is this beach house where you normally live?

No, I usually use it when I need to get away for the weekend.

Then where do you live?

Jack hesitated, chastising himself for not seeing where this conversation was going and heading it off at the pass. Would it surprise you to know I live on a ranch?

Mirandas face lit up. A real ranch with horses and everything?

Quite a few horses, actually. Would you like to go riding some time?

Oh Jack, Id love to! Her face fell. I guess I should have asked where the ranch is first.

Only about twenty miles outside of Malibu.

If you live that close, why are you staying at Holts penthouse?

Jack kept his eyes on the road. One more little white lie couldnt hurt, could it? Im having some remodeling done in the kitchen which was a bit of inconvenience so when Holt offered me his place for the week, I accepted.

Well, she said with a soft smile, Im certainly glad he did.

The tension left his shoulders. So am I, sweetheart.

***

Lying on the beach, soaking up the last of the suns rays, Miranda couldnt remember a time when shed felt so relaxed. Shed been a little self conscious slipping into the Hawaiian print string bikini Jack had insisted they get at Elizabeths but the reaction shed gotten from him

was worth it. Even now, with her eyes closed against the waning sun she could feel him watching her, so she wasnt surprised when his warm hand glided over her belly.

Jack leaned over and brushed his lips across the spot his hand had just occupied. Lets go inside.

The low, sexy tone of his voice left no doubt in her mind what he planned on doing once they got there. Hand in hand they walked back to the beach house and straight to the bedroom. Already the aching need inside of her was so strong she thought shed burst, and as his first caress trailed down her back making her quiver with anticipation, Miranda wondered if she would ever get enough of Jack Devlin. Shed always been so hard hearted about Holts cast offs but if he was anything like Jack, she could understand now why those women tried to cling to him so tenaciously. It was addictive, this inner heat, this passion, and she wanted it to go on forever. But of course it couldnt. Holt and Jack were cut from the same clothe and Jacks desire for her would burn off just as Holts always did for his female companions.

Jack nibbled at her neck while his hands slid down her sides and settled on her hips. You know what I like best about string bikinis?

Hmmmmthey leave so little to the imagination?

That too. But this, he tugged at the strings on either side, chuckling softly when her bottoms dropped to the floor, this is the best thing.

He did the same with the top; one tug at the string around her back, another on the string around her neck and Miranda was totally naked. His eyes travelled down her body and back up

again. In all of Gods creation there had never been a more beautiful woman. But it wasnt just the delicate curves of her body that drew him to her, although those certainly had his full attention at the moment. It was Mirandas inner beauty, her quiet manner that spoke straight to his heart. No woman had ever penetrated the granite wall hed erected around it but somehow this shy little woman was systematically tearing it down one stone at a time. She both calmed him and ignited a raging fire at the same time and though he couldnt even begin to understand it, he was grateful for it nonetheless.

They made love with the French doors standing open and the cool ocean breeze whispering across their heated flesh. Miranda had never felt so deliciously feminine, dwarfed as she was by Jacks size, and it seemed an impossible defiance of nature that their bodies fit together so perfectly. Every plane and angle of his corded muscles molded flawlessly against her softer, gentler curves. She took him inside of her, each heavy thrust of his hips forcing out small moans of pleasure that were lost beneath the sound of Jacks harsher grunts of male satisfaction. She loved the way he made her feel, but she loved it more that she could excite him, get him so hot for her that he lost all control just as he was doing now. He drove into her relentlessly, their muscles straining against each other until at last their cries split the night and they tumbled over the edge together.

Afterwards, as she nestled half asleep in the crook of his arm feeling warm and safe and incredibly satiated, the vision of Holts angry face suddenly snapped Miranda out of her dreamy state. Would it bother him to know she was sleeping with his brother or would he care at all? It seemed strange that every waking moment for the past three years had been consumed with thoughts of Holt and yet shed hardly spared a minute for him since meeting Jack. Maybe not so

strange after all, she thought when he stirred in his sleep and drew her closer in a possessive embrace.

***

They spent the next two days sailing and swimming and taking long walks on the beach. They even spent an entire morning building sandcastles that didnt look anything like castles at all but Miranda had such a wonderful time it didnt matter. By the end of the third day it seemed as if theyd known each other for years instead of less than a week. They talked for hours, laughing and teasing and growing more and more at ease with each other. The only dark cloud hovering over her was the knowledge that the long, lazy days and endless nights of love making would soon come to an end. Every morning she woke expecting him to tell her it was time to pack up and go back to Malibu but he didnt. Instead hed wake her with soft, feathery kisses then make love to her before mapping out their days activities. He even reminded her to call Missy so she wouldnt worry, which Miranda thought was incredibly sweet.

Lets fly to Vegas for a few days, Jack suggested one morning as they were clearing away the breakfast dishes.

Vegas! You want to leave the peace and quiet of the beach for a city that never sleeps?

He grabbed her up in his arms and planted a hard kiss on her lips. Youll love it, I promise. Ill even give you a roll of quarters to gamble with.

Your generosity is overwhelming, she said dryly.

What do you say, sweetheart? The lights, the excitement, the hordes of people; itll be a culture shock after being here for five days.

How could she say no when he seemed so enthralled by the idea? All right, Im game. When do we leave?

You go pack and Ill arrange for a flight. With luck, we can be there before lunchtime.

If you can manage to book flights to Vegas that fast, Id say you missed your calling as a travel agent.

You just worry about packing, Ill worry about everything else.

She had no doubt hed have them playing the slots before the day was out and in spite of her reluctance to go among the hordes of people, as he called them, she couldnt help being caught up in Jacks enthusiasm about the trip. It occurred to her that this must be how Bri lived her life; hopping from place to place on a whim, doing whatever she wanted, whenever she wanted and not worrying about the consequences. Granted, Miranda had those moments when she lamented the end of her time with Jack, but for the most part she thought she was doing pretty well at following his lead into spontaneity. Technically, she supposed she couldnt lay claim to being as carefree as her sister, but it was quite a break from the old Miranda whod never even painted her nails anything darker than a pale pink.

With all the new clothes she had in addition to packing Jacks suitcase, it took her a little longer than she thought. After dragging the suitcases into the foyer and making a final sweep of the bedroom and bathroom, she wandered back to the living room to find Jack but he wasnt

there. Thinking he must be outside on the deck, she was a bit perplexed to find he wasnt there either. Scanning the beach and not catching so much as a glimpse of him, Miranda stepped off the balcony and circled the house. She found him propped against the tailgate of his truck with his back to her talking on his cell phone. For a moment she considered going back inside because he was keeping his voice so low it was obvious he didnt want her to overhear what he was saying, but just as she turned to go she caught a snippet of the conversation and instead of leaving, Miranda crept a little closer.

I miss you too, honey, Jack said. I know its been awhile but Ive got a company to run, you know. Tell you what, Ill set aside one day next week just for you, okay? Well do whatever you want, will that make you happy? There was a short pause while he listened. Yes, Ill bring you a present, dont I always? Now Ive really got to go or Ill miss my plane. After another pause, Jack said tenderly, I love you too, sweetheart, I cant wait to see you.

Miranda sucked in a harsh breath, her heart breaking neatly in two. Then she turned and fled as fast as her feet would carry her.

Chapter 6
She tore down the beach, blinded by tears and sobbing hysterically, not caring where she was going. All the time theyd spent together, all the hours of making love had meant nothing to him. Shed been a mere distraction; a stupid, nave woman whod probably been little more than a poor substitute for the woman on the other end of the phone. How could she have been so stupid to think Jack could actually have feelings for her? It was as foolish as the belief that one day Holt would see her as a desireable woman. It was embarrassing, humiliating, and it tore at her heart because shed thoughtno, she wasnt falling in love with him. She wasnt. She wasnt.

Her feet pounded against the wet sand, carrying her farther and farther away from the beach house. The ocean spray dampened her clothes but she hardly noticed; she was too caught up in her own misery to notice anything except the tightening of her chest and the painful knot that twisted her stomach making it almost impossible to breath. She had to get out of here, as far away from Jack as possible but the only way up to the highway was back the way shed come. To the right of her was the ocean and to the left, a cliff of jagged rocks that certainly couldnt be scaled in the thin sandals she was wearing.

Exhausted and short of breath, Miranda finally stopped running and dropped down onto her knees. Burying her face in her hands, she let out a wail that was so pitiful it only deepened the ache in her heart because as much as she despised Jack for what hed done, she understood what it meant. Only love could hurt this bad, only love could tear that kind of sound from her throat and make her wish the world would swallow her up whole. She told herself she had to get up, that somehow she had to make it to the highway and find a phone. Shed call Bri and arrange

to be picked up and then somehow shed pull herself together and never, never let anyone know how stupid shed been to care so much for Jack Devlin.

Hauling herself to her feet, Miranda angled towards the ragged cliff. It wasnt that high, maybe eighty feet or so and the rocks were so uneven it wouldnt be difficult to find hand and foot holds. She might have even convinced herself of that if she hadnt stopped at the bottom and tilted her head back. With the sky as a backdrop, the climb looked insurmountable. A wave of vertigo made her stumble backwards, tears of frustration streaking down her cheeks, and once again Miranda sank down into the sand.

She had to think. Maybe he was still making arrangements for the trip and hadnt noticed yet that she was gone. If she could just rein in her emotions and stop crying she might be able to make him believe shed only gone for one last walk on the beach before they left. Once they were on their way she could tell him she was sick and wanted to go home. She could even pretend she was sleeping during the drive back to Malibu to avoid having to talk to him. It would work, she told herself. If only it didnt hurt so badly. And if she could stop the flow of tears. And if she didnt have to look at him or talk to him and somehow managed to keep him from touching her.

Miranda, what are doing way out here? Our flight Jacks heart clutched in his chest when her head snapped around then just as quickly turned away from him again. Hurrying to her side he went down on his knees, his eyes scanning her body for injuries. Are you hurt?

He reached for hand but she yanked it away and for a moment he was too stung by her reaction to say anything. Shed been crying, that was evident, but she didnt seem to have any

wounds to indicate shed fallen. Not quite sure how to handle the situation, he sat down and tried to put his arm around her.

Mirandas shoulders stiffened. Dont, she choked. II dont feel well, Jack. I thinkII want to go home.

His brow furrowed. I dont understand. You were fine not twenty minutes ago and now youre trembling like a leaf and acting as if you can barely tolerate my touch.

I told you

I know what you told me, but Im not buying it.

In one smooth movement he leaned over, scooped her up, and deposited her on his lap. She held herself rigid, but at least she wasnt fighting him. Jack cupped her chin and gently but firmly forced her head back. The shattered look and tear stained face was almost more than he could bear. He let his hand drop and crushed Miranda to his chest, pressing his cheek to hers. If he had to look at her, hed never be able to keep his own voice from shaking with emotion.

Talk to me, honey. What happened to upset you?

Miranda squeezed her eyes shut, desperately trying to block out how comforting it was to be held like this. Its my own fault, she sniffed. I mean, its not as if you didnt warn me.

Jack kept her locked in his arms, totally clueless as to what she was talking about. Im afraid I still dont understand.

She drew in a shuddering breath. Please, I just want to go home.

Were not going anywhere until you tell me whats going on. Now, what exactly did I warn you about?

Aabout us, about not getting too close emotionally. Im sorry, Jack, I really am. She let her head drop onto his shoulder, her heart so heavy her entire body ached with it. I thought I could handle this but I didnt consider there would be other women, and I should have because you told me up front that it couldnt be anything more than a physical relationship. But II cant do it, I just cant.

Miranda

I dont blame you, she interrupted. Im the one who broke our agreement. This past week with you has been incredible and I dont regret a moment of it, but I cant go to Vegas with you knowing its all going to end when we get back home.

Jack drew his head back. What are you talking about? What in the world made you think that?

Miranda lifted her eyes to his, fighting back the tears. Oh Jack, I know I should be mature about it but I cant do this. Just the thought of you kissing another woman, making love to her her voice caught in her throat. Shaking it off, she set her chin determinedly. Maybe the other women youre seeing can deal with the idea that youre with them one day and someone else the next, but I cant. I wont. It hurts too much.

Completely perplexed, he searched his mind for anything he could have said or done that would make her believe she was just one of many, but came up blank. Miranda, honey, he said evenly, what in the hell are you talking about? I have no intention of ending it with you and I sure as hell wouldnt risk what we have by sleeping with someone else.

Her lips trembled but she managed to keep her voice from shaking. I heard youon the phone, I heard you tell that woman you missed her and that youd see her next week. She looked away from him. You told her you loved her. How could you do that? How could you say that to her when youve been sleeping with me?

The mounting fear that she was going to leave him instantly dissipated. His poor, sweet Miranda had totally misconstrued his phone conversations. Look at me, he said softly. When her eyes met his, he smiled. It wasnt what you think. I did say all those things but it wasnt to a woman. Jack had to laugh at her startled expression. No, it wasnt a man either. Jennie is my goddaughter. Shes Beth and Daves little girl.

Mirandas heart surged with hope. Your goddaughter?

Yes, sweetheart, and I love her to death. I usually take Jennie and her brother, Brent, for a couple of hours on Saturdays but I missed this week because I wanted to be with you. She was pretty upset with me because Id promised to take them horseback riding.

Youre not just making that up?

You can call her if you like. All you have to do is push redial on my cell phone and

No, I believe you. She let out a groan and buried her face in his neck. Im so embarrassed for the way I behaved and Im ashamed for the awful things I was thinking. Can you ever forgive me?

Jack was so happy she wasnt crying any more he would have forgiven her anything, but something else shed said wormed its way into his head and he wasnt quite ready to let her off the hook. Before I answer, I need to know something. What did you mean when you said you broke our agreement?

Her stomach knotted, but she wouldnt lie even if it meant losing him. If it was going to end, it was better it happened now. Mustering every ounce of courage she had, Miranda sat up right and met his steady gaze. In spite of the rejection she was sure would follow, her heart raced when he offered a smile of encouragement.

Jack, Icare a lot for you.

He arched a brow. You care for me?

A lot, she corrected.

Thats it? You run off, crying as if your heart has been broken because you think Im making a date with another woman and the best excuse you can offer is that you care a lot?

Her shoulders slumped. He wanted her to say it. He wanted to hear the words so he had a reason to break it off. Her voice was hoarse and ragged when she spoke, but she held her head up high. I didnt mean for it to happen, but it did. The truth is Im falling in love with you, Jack. I know we agreed

The breath was stolen from her lungs when his mouth crashed down on hers. His kiss was hard and hungry and she was helpless to resist it. Not that she tried. Mirandas arms curled around his sides and pulled him closer, sheer and utter joy filling her heart when he eased her back onto the sand. Gradually, the pressure of his lips softened and the ardent kisses were replaced with tender ones. When he finally lifted his head, there was no reproof in his eyes.

Do you have any idea what you do to me, Miranda Carrington? Propped on one elbow, Jack studied every detail of her face intently and wondered why hed never noticed before just how breathtaking she was. Forget that stupid agreement, it voided itself the first time I made love to you. A hint of a smile tipped the corners of her mouth bringing his focus back to her lips. There have been other women, but none of them ever made me feel the way you do. Ive got to be honest, honey, it scares the hell out of me but at the same time I feel like dancing around like a complete idiot and beating my chest. He stroked the side of her face with his fingers. I dont want this to end, Miranda, not ever. I want to ram my fist through a wall every time I think of another man touching you. Youre mine, all mine, and I intend to keep it that way.

It wasnt the admission of love shed hoped for, but it was close enough to chase away the fear that hed send her packing. Im sorry for not trusting you.

Given the side of the conversation you overheard, its not hard to see why you jumped to the wrong conclusions but if it ever happens again I want your promise that you wont run away. I damn near went crazy when I couldnt find you.

I promise. Do you still want to take that trip to Vegas or have we missed our flight?

The plane is ready and waiting, all it needs is the pilot and his passenger.

Mirandas face lit up. I didnt know you could fly too. Holt keeps promising to take me when we have an out of town meeting that isnt too far away but we always end up using his pilot so we can go over paperwork during the flight. Did you both learn at the same time? Do you have your own plane? Oh Jack, this is so exciting I can hardly wait!

He chuckled at her childlike exuberance. Yes we learned at the same time and yes I have my own plane but its back at a private airport just outside Malibu. Were borrowing one from Devlin Shipping. Leaning down, he gave her a brief kiss then hopped up and pulled her to her feet. If we hurry, we can still be there in time for lunch and an early show. Then we can gamble half the night away. He gathered her closer. I fully expect you to spend the remaining half of the night making up for running off on me.

Mirandas hands inched up his chest. Maybe I could make it up to you a little at a time.

Heat coursed through his veins when she smiled up at him. What did you have in mind?

Emboldened by the huskiness of his voice, she stood on her toes and whispered in Jacks ear. She was quite creative and explained in great detail just exactly how she planned to atone for what shed done. When she was finished, he let out a low, anguished groan then chastised her for torturing him with fantasies she wouldnt be able to fulfill for several hours. Turn about was fair play apparently because he return the favor on the walk back by embellishing on the erotic

fantasy until they were both practically running in their eagerness to reach the beach house. Needless to say, they didnt make it to Vegas in time for lunch.

***

Miranda watched him lay down his cards, a triumphant smile on his handsome face. Four of a kind, Aces high. Very nice, Jack. Fanning her cards out on the bed, she giggled when he swore under his breath. Straight flush, darling, you loseagain.

Jack stood up and shoved his jeans down, grumbling the entire time. I never would have agreed to strip poker if Id known you were any good at it. You told me youd never been to Vegas so how is it that Im down to my boxers and the only thing youve had to remove is your shoes?

I never said I didnt know how to play poker or blackjack or any other gambling game for that matter. You just assumed if I hadnt been to Vegas I didnt know how to play.

Jack settled back on the bed and waited for her to deal the next hand. So how did you get so good at it?

Bri loves to gamble so we usually take a couple of long weekends during the year and vacation in Aruba or St. Maarten. Last year we went to Monaco and loved it so much thats probably where well go next time.

And here I thought you were a shy little wallflower, he shook his head. What other fascinating tidbits are you hiding from me? Do you skydive or race cars in your spare time?

Not hardly, she snorted as she dealt their cards. If it werent for Bri Id probably never do anything adventurous. She has the most annoying knack for talking me into things I dont particularly want to do, but somehow we always seem to have a great time.

Jack eyed his hand then held up three fingers. Youre very close to your sister arent you?

I love her to death in spite of how pushy she is. What about your family?

He refrained from grimacing when she only took one card for herself. My father retired five years ago and is living out his golden years with a wife twenty two years his junior.

So your parents are divorced. How does your mother feel about him marrying a younger woman?

He tossed a couple of chips on the pile. Theyve been divorced longer than the most recent Mrs. Devlin has been alive. Actually, my mother and father get along very well. I think they discovered they were much more compatible as friends than as a married couple so the parting was amicable. I even suspect they still sleep together in between fathers marriages.

Miranda arched her brows. Just how many times has he been married?

Six or seven I think. Its hard to keep count. My father isnt very good at relationships, obviously, and that includes his two sons but theres no animosity or anything. As for mother, she spoiled us rotten but there was some emotional distance there too.

Is that why its so difficult for you to express your own feelings?

I call.

Avoidance is one way to handle it, I guess, she sighed. Three of a kind. I was going for a full house but didnt quite make it.

He laid out his cards, gathered up the chips and informed Miranda her blouse had to go. He was practically salivating by the time she peeled it off and crawled back up on the bed, and though he was enjoying their game Jack couldnt quite take his eyes off the lacy bra she was wearing long enough to shuffle the cards. He reached out, intent on claiming at least one of her delectable breasts and promptly got his hand swatted away.

You know the rules, she said primly, no touching during the game or you automatically lose.

He swept the cards off the bed. Im losing anyway, he growled then pushed Miranda back onto the mattress, pinning her beneath him.

We didnt finish our conversation, she protested.

His lips skimmed down the column of her elegant neck. Baby, its late. Cant we save the conversation for another day?

Thats not fair. You always do this, Jack. I answer all your questions but when I start doing the asking, you change the subject or distract me with sex.

In spite of being irritated at him, Mirandas body responded with a tremor when his hand glided up her bare back and unhooked her bra. There was no use fighting it when even the

slightest of suggestive touches from Jack turned her mind to mush, and what he was doing to her now was a whole lot more than simply suggestive. The only way she was going to get him to talk about himself was to make him take her someplace public that was quiet enough to carry on a conversation but had enough people around so he couldnt get her into any compromising positions. Like the one she was in. And Lord, was he ever compromising her at the moment. Tomorrow shed work on getting him to open up to her; tonight Miranda was quite content with the nonverbal form of communication Jack was so adept at.

***

They had breakfast in their room the next morning then roamed the casinos for a few hours before taking in a show. He dragged Miranda from place to place, bought her more clothes and surprised her at lunch with a gold chain necklace that had a horseshoe pendant made entirely of glittering diamonds. How hed managed to purchase it without her knowing was a mystery he refused to divulge and she found it incredibly touching especially since he seemed almost as excited to give it to her as she was to have received it.

Is it for good luck? Miranda asked when she pulled her hair aside so he could hook the clasp.

He pressed a kiss to the back of her neck then turned her around and planted a much firmer one on her lips. No, its to remind you how lucky I feel to have you in life.

Tears instantly sprang to her eyes and she dabbed them away when they sat down to finish their lunch. It wasnt until theyd checked out of the hotel and were settled in the plane for the flight home that she realized hed kept her so busy all day long they hadnt had one single

opportunity to talk. She had a sneaking suspicion hed done it on purpose and now that he had his headset on it would be impossible to carry on a decent conversation. They hadnt even discussed where they were spending the night or even if they were spending it together and that began to worry at her. With only one day left of vacation and no idea when she would be seeing him again, Miranda was starting to wonder if that was the real reason hed avoided taking her any place that day quiet enough to discuss anything too personal.

Tired out from the whirlwind day and having slept very little the night before, she dozed off and didnt wake until he gave her arm a gentle nudge and told her they were getting ready to land. Jacks skills in handling the plane were as proficient as they were in everything else he did and the landing was so smooth she barely felt anything at all when they touched down. Hed parked his truck inside Devlin Shippings private hangar so it didnt take long to transfer their luggage once hed maneuvered the plane inside and she couldnt help feeling saddened that their week long adventure had come to an end.

Jack caught the dismal look in her eyes just as he opened her door. Instead of lifting her up into the truck, he gathered her in his arms and just held there for several minutes. He knew exactly what shed been thinking and that she was uncertain about where they were going from here, literally and figuratively speaking. This was all so new to him, this maelstrom of emotions that was playing hell with his heart and the unfamiliar territory of actually needing someone. Hed never felt this way for any woman before so it wasnt surprising that he didnt know how to express those feelings. And the truth was, until he figured out a way to untangle the little web of lies hed spun first, he wasnt sure he even wanted to try and tell her.

If only he could ask Miranda to come home with him to the ranch then she wouldnt be so unsure of their relationship. It would also put an end to this overwhelming surge of panic whenever he thought about trying to fall asleep each night without her curled up beside him. He couldnt keep using the penthouse, couldnt take her back to the ranch, and wouldnt even consider staying at the Carrington Manor under the watchful eye of Missy and her live-in butler/lover.

There was one possibility though. Jacks spirits lifted considerably. He had several rental houses, including two condos which were both vacant at the moment. One was having some plumbing issues that needed to be resolved before the new tenants moved in next month but the other one had just recently become vacant. Hed have to get the place completely furnished before the end of the day Monday but a few phone calls between now and then would get the ball rolling. He could do this, Jack thought. He was after all a Devlin.

He stroked Mirandas hair, breathing in the soft scent of her. Hed do whatever it took to keep her with him. I have a plan, he said softly.

Miranda tipped her head back. What kind of plan?

A plan that will insure we can spend every spare minute together. Ive been thinking about keeping a place closer to work and one of my condos just happens to be free right now. Jacks heart leapt at the brilliant smile lighting Mirandas face and suddenly what he was offering didnt seem nearly good enough. Come with me tomorrow to pick out furniture.

Her smile faltered. Youyou want me furniture shop for your condo?

Jack chuckled. No, sweetheart, I want you to help furnish our condo. Move in with me, Miranda.

Chapter 7
There were probably a million reasons she should have told him no, but not a single one of them came to mind. You mean it, Jack?

Honey, you have no idea how much I want this. We can pick everything out together, really make it our own. He pulled her closer, a devilish grin playing on his lips. Say yes or Ill be forced to resort to plan B.

Hmmmm, perhaps I should consider all my options first. What is plan B?

Oh the end result is the same, I can assure you. It would just be a lot easier if I had youre full cooperation.

Miranda widened her eyes in mock horror. You were going to kidnap me?

His grin broadened and he looked anything but repentant. Just until I convinced you what a grand idea it was.

With a sigh, she leaned into him and rested her cheek against is chest. If you and Bri ever teamed up against me I wouldnt have a prayer.

You dont have a prayer now. Youre as helpless to resist me as you are your sister.

She smiled at his cocky confidence. I dont suppose its very smart of me to let you know youre right.

Im sure of it, but since it works to my advantage Im happy to hear you admit it.

Were probably making a huge mistake. I mean, weve only known each other for a week.

Jack brushed a kiss to her forehead. Youre wrong, sweetheart, weve known each other for years.

I feel that way too.

Then well do it, he said firmly. Well spend tonight at the penthouse then get up early and hit some furniture stores. Well have to outfit the whole thing, but well start with the most important things first and take our time filling it up.

Miranda didnt have to speculate which items hed find the most important. So we look for bedroom furniture first then kitchen appliances?

He lifted her up into the truck. You see, already you know me so well. A bed and a refrigerator full of food, what more does a man need?

***

I have to admit Im pleasantly surprised at your taste. Jack eyed the hunter green down comforter that covered the massive and decidedly masculine bed frame theyd agreed on. I half expected you to choose something white and frilly.

Miranda shot him a wilting glare. Do I seem like the frilly type to you?

He grabbed her and pulled her up hard against his chest. As a matter of fact you do. Youre so small and delicate, like a fragile flower.

I am not fragile, Jack Devlin. I happen to be a very strong, independent woman.

He laughed at her futile attempt to extract herself from his arms. Youre weak as a kitten, honey. And do I need to remind you that youre no longer an independent woman? You are most assuredly spoken for and Im very, very possessive of whats mine.

He dipped his head with the sole purpose of sealing that statement with a long, hard kiss. Unfortunately, he was reminded they had an audience when the sales lady whod been assisting them cleared her throat. The woman smiled timidly when he glanced over his shoulder and her cheeks were a bright, rosy red but she wasnt about to leave them unattended and chance giving up the sizeable commission shed receive from the sale. She was clutching her clipboard in one hand and a pen in the other, almost desperate in her attempt not to appear too eager about adding the bed to the growing list of furniture. Miranda must have noticed it too because she stepped away from him and flashed one of her dazzling smiles on the woman.

Youve been very patient and we really do appreciate it. Have you worked here long?

A little of the tension slipped off the womans face. Only six months. I was actually looking for something in accounting but the job market is pretty tight right now. She blushed again, her eyes moving nervously from Jack to Miranda. I guess that wasnt very professionally of me to tell you this job wasnt my first choice.

Miranda noted the name tag on her blouse. Youre doing just fine, Linda. Well take the bed as well as the comforter and all the bedding that goes with it. Shall we take the dressers and nightstands too, Jack?

Whatever you want, honey.

Linda was all smiles. I cant tell you how much this means to me. My boy is just starting college this year and with me losing my job it hasnt been easy. I know youll love the furniture, she quickly added.

Jack couldnt help notice that Mirandas eyes were filled with empathy as she watched the sales woman jot down the items theyd selected. Hed never given much thought to the sales people who attended him or even once considered the impact his decision to buy or not buy would have on them. Of course he hadnt gotten where he was by being a bleeding heart but something about this womans plight with her son made him want to help. The only thing he could attribute it to was Miranda. By allowing himself to feel for her, hed opened up a whole new world of compassion for others. He laughed inwardly. It wasnt nearly as painful as hed thought it would be, especially since he had the power to do something about it.

He ventured to ask, If you dont mind saying, how come you lost your job?

My boss retired and the man who took over decided he needed someone younger. Much younger, she added pointedly.

He said that? Miranda exclaimed in disbelief.

Not in so many words. He said finances were tight and he needed to hire someone who was willing to take less pay. When I offered to cut my salary, he stammered around and admitted hed already put an ad in the paper. I couldnt help noticing the only women who got called back for a second interview were in their mid-twenties.

Jack was quite amused by the indignant huff Miranda let out but before she could say anything he looped his arm around her waist. Didnt Devlin Shipping just open up an accounting position?

Miranda blinked. Wellyes, but how did you know?

His smile was indulgent. I know the boss personally.

She laughed at her own silliness. Its not my fault my mind is only half here, weve been shopping for hours. She opened her purse and pulled out a business card. Im Holt Devlins personal assistant and this is his brother, Jack. I think between the two of us we can persuade him to give you an interview. And you can trust me when I say hell only be interested in your job skills.

Linda took the card with a grateful smile. I dont know what to say, she said a bit tearfully. First you give me what has to be the stores biggest sale of the year then present me with the opportunity for a job at Devlin Shipping. I dont know how Ill ever repay you for your kindness.

Jack gave Miranda a sidelong glance then winked at Linda. Just make sure our bed gets delivered tomorrow and Ill be eternally in your debt.

***

She shouldnt be thinking of Holt, not when she was lying in bed with Jack, but she couldnt seem to keep the events of the afternoon from rolling through her head or from

comparing the two Devlin brothers. What Jack had done for Linda was so kind and thoughtful that shed felt the sting of tears herself. Holt would never have done something like that, not when his selfless act would have been doled out face to face. He was an extremely generous man, giving both his time and money to charities and educational scholarships but only when he could do it anonymously. It was almost as if it embarrassed him to let people know he had a heart. But she knew, and if it hadnt been for Jack she might never have given up the hope that one day Holt would feel something for her.

It was hard to believe so much could have changed in such a short period of time but she couldnt have been happier with her decision to move in with Jack. Understanding just how big of a commitment it was for him made it easier to accept that he hadnt told her he loved her, though she longed to hear the words. In that respect, Holt and Jack were very much alike because neither of them seemed capable of expressing their feelings verbally. Based on her brief conversation with Jack about his parents she could hardly blame either of them for keeping a wall around their hearts but it didnt stop her from wishing she could somehow penetrate it and somehow free them both.

Miranda rolled onto her back, disturbed by her train of thought. Why should she care if Holt hid his feelings from the world? Shouldnt she only be concerned with getting Jack to communicate better? After all, Jack was the one whod pushed aside his own doubts and fears about relationships because of his desire to be with her. She wanted desperately for that to be enough, but deep down inside she knew no matter what Jack did, no matter how wonderful he was, he would never be able to have the part of her heart that belonged to Holt. Jack didnt

deserve a love that wasnt one hundred percent his, and Miranda swore to herself that shed do everything in her power to keep him from finding out.

Whassa matter, Jack mumbled groggily, cant sleep?

Im sorry, I didnt mean to wake you.

Pulling her back into his arms, it didnt take two seconds to recognize how tense she was. Talk to me, honey. Whats bothering you?

Its nothing, just a case of insomnia.

Youre not a very good liar, Miranda. Is it Holt? The sudden rigidness of her back and shoulders was all the answer he needed. I told you theres nothing to worry about. I promise he wasnt angry with you at the party, he was just caught off guard by how incredible you looked.

Miranda held back the sigh of relief. For a moment she thought hed somehow known what she was thinking. Its just that hes always respected me, you know? I dont want that to change and really dont think I could stand it if he looked at me again the way he did that night.

Jack closed his eyes, overwhelmed by the sudden realization that Mirandas concern was more than just the fear of losing the respect of her boss. Hed had his suspicions and now he had his confirmation. How long had Miranda had these feelings and how had she managed to keep them hidden? He never would have pursued a relationship with her if hed known, but saying hed changed his mind about moving in together would hurt her and he just couldnt bring himself to do that. No, hed have to come up with some other way to separate himself from Miranda without her realizing what he was doing. Then she would be free to develop a

relationship with the man she really loved, the man whod been too blind to see hed had her heart long before Jack Devlin stepped into the picture.

Everything will be fine. Now give me a kiss and try to get some sleep.

Snuggled in the comfort of his arms, Miranda could almost believe it. Jack?

Yeah, honey.

Id rather not tell Holt about us right now if thats okay with you.

You think hell have a problem with it?

I doubt it. I mean, its not as if hes ever shown any interest in my personal life before. Its just that I dont want him thinking about ustogether.

Jack laughed softly. What you mean is you dont want him to visualize us in bed together.

I know it sounds silly but

It embarrasses you?

No! Oh Jack, I didnt mean for you to think that at all. Its just sointimate and special what happens between us and I want to keep it all to myself for a while longer.

Then it will be our little secret for now.

He kissed her good-night but sleep eluded him. He could have handled it if shed agreed it was embarrassing because it would have substantiated his belief that what she felt for him was just misplaced affection. But for Miranda to say what they shared was so special she wanted to keep it to herself meant she was confused. Was it possible she loved them both? Good God, this was getting complicated. Of course she was falling in love with him, hadnt he done just about everything he could to instill those deep emotions in her? Now there was only one way out of this as far as he could see; she had to choose. Jack could only pray the choice Miranda made was the right one.

***

Miranda forced herself to wait until eight-thirty before rising from her desk with pen and pad and heading towards Holts office. What shed really wanted to do was go in and get it over with as soon as shed arrived but had talked herself out of it. For all she knew hed forgotten all about it, and if that was the case shed only upset the apple cart by going in earlier than normal. So shed waited. Checking to make sure her hair was securely pinned, Miranda had just a fraction of a second to regret wearing one of her new outfits before stepping inside. A cursory glance from Holt relieved her trepidation; obviously hed taken no notice of what she was wearing. Crossing the room with a little more confidence, she took her seat in front of his desk as usual.

After a few tense moments he handed her the mail then proceeded to dictate several letters. When that was done, he gave her a list of files he needed her to pull, asked to her handle a few shipping issues he didnt have time for, and informed her there was a new client in Texas hed have to fly out to meet in two weeks. She jotted down the name of the client and what

information shed need to gather for his meeting and was just beginning to believe everything would go back to normal when he rose from his desk and came around to stand beside her.

Book two hotel rooms for the trip to Corpus Christi and make sure theyre adjoining.

Ignoring the pang of jealousy, Miranda kept her pen poised over the pad. Shall I make the reservations for both rooms in your name or will yourcompanion be registered under her own name?

Register us under separate names, itll be easier for bookkeeping to establish that its business related.

The air froze in her lungs. Had she understood him correctly? You want me to accompany you?

Of course, who did you think I was taking?

He sounded amused which only served to embarrass her. He knew exactly what shed been thinking, especially since hed requested adjoining rooms. Even worse, she was riddled with guilt for feeling jealous when she had no right to be and she silently begged for Jacks forgiveness. Knowing Holt was waiting for her to respond, she steadied her nerves and lifted her eyes to his.

I thought you might be taking someone from marketing.

No, Ill need you there to take notes at the meetings and make sure the contracts are in order. Well be gone for five days, is that a problem for you?

Ino, not at all.

She looked back down at her pad, her mind in utter turmoil. A week of being with Holt away from the office would have sounded wonderful before shed gotten involved with Jack but now she was torn between wanting to go and being upset at having to be separated from Jack for so long. Her thoughts shocked her. What in the world was wrong with her that she could even entertain fantasies about Holt when she felt so strongly about Jack?

Im disappointed in you, Miranda.

Jolted by the idea hed known what she was thinking, her head snapped up. What?

Holt leaned down and scooped the mail and notepad from her lap and deposited them on his desk. After plucking the pen from her shaky fingers and dropping it on the pile of papers, he took her hand and drew her to her feet. Her eyes were wide and her breath shallow, but it wasnt from fear. Reaching behind her head, he deftly pulled the obnoxious clip from her hair and tossed it on his desk then sifted his fingers through the heavy tresses before moving his hands to her shoulders. She was trembling from head to toe but he noted with a great deal of satisfaction that she didnt try to move away from him.

It looked so lovely when you wore it down at the party. I thought youd start wearing it that way from now on. Her lips parted as if to speak but she merely nodded, those jade green eyes of hers driving him crazy with desire. I was hurt that you didnt stick around long enough to have at least one dance with me. His hands skimmed down her arms then moved to rest

lightly on the gentle slope of her hips. And I was even more upset that you werent there to ring in the New Year with me.

But you left too, she said weakly. I came back and you were gone.

His hands slipped around her waist. Were you hoping Id be there?

She swallowed hard, her heart beating out a rapid tempo. She should lie and say no. Yes, she whispered.

And what were you hoping would happen, Miranda?

Nothing! I just wanted toto wish you a Happy New Year.

He pulled her closer. Really? Because I think you wanted me to kiss you when that clock stroked midnight.

Miranda shook her head in protest. Oh, why was he doing this to her now when shed already promised herself to Jack? She couldnt let his happen, she told herself. She pressed her palms to his chest, fully intending to push him away. But the moment she touched him she knew what a horrible mistake shed made when a warm tingling sensation began to coil deep in her abdomen. Shed wanted this for so long yet even as her body leaned into him, her mind screamed that it was wrong.

Miranda, he said on a sigh as he lowered his mouth to hers.

Fire raged through her veins, scorching her, torturing her with its intense heat. Oh yes, shed wanted this and now that it was happening she was powerless to stop it. Strong arms

crushed her to him as the kiss deepened and consumed her very soul. The months and years of longing for him were finally avenged by this moment of passion and every aching emotion shed ever had for him was unleashed in that one single kiss. Slowly, he inched her back towards the sofa and eased her down onto the cushions and a soft moan caught and held in her throat when he pressed his hips into her. He was incredibly aroused and even the knowledge that someone could come to the door at any second didnt diminish the desire to feel him moving inside of her.

I want you, he whispered hoarsely. God, you have no idea how much I need you right now.

She gasped when his hand slid beneath her skirt and started to pull her pantyhose down but she did nothing to stop him. Her shoes hit the floor with a dull thud just a fraction of a second before her hose were removed and fluttered to the ground after them. And then he was kissing her again; hard, demanding kisses that promised more than she could ever have imagined. She felt his hand move between them and knew he was unbuckling his belt. Miranda squirmed beneath him, wanting him, needing him, knowing that in a matter of seconds she would have him.

Holt lifted his head to look at her, to drink in the beauty of the woman he was about to claim as his own. He hadnt meant for it to go this far, but the way shed kissed him had thrown him totally off balance and hed lost all self control. Hed spent the last week agonizing over her, wondering if she felt for him the way he did for her and now he knew. She wanted him. She wanted him to make love to her so badly that shed pushed aside her prim little nature and given into desire in spite of the fact it was broad daylight and that just outside his door there were any number of people who could come knocking and interrupt them.

Miranda opened her eyes slowly, drugged by his kisses and the heat of his body. A sexy smile curved his lips and raw desire burned in his eyes, and for one brief moment Mirandas heart surged with the power of her love before reality hit her square in the gut and knocked the wind out of her. It wasnt Holts face she saw just inches above her own but Jacks. Jack, whod rescued her from an attacker and brought her to the Penthouse to make sure she was okay. Jack, whod made love to her and taken her to heights shed never known before. Jack, laughing with her as they strolled down the beach, flying her to Vegas, pouting about losing at strip poker, and asking her to move in with him.

Stop, she cried, please, Holt. Oh God, what am I doing? She pushed against his chest, tears streaming down her cheeks.

Confused by her sudden rejection, Holt braced her face in his hands searching her eyes for some clue. Miranda, whats wrong?

This, she sobbed, this is wrong, so wrong.

No, baby, its incredibly right. Is it because were in my office? We could say were out on an appointment and go up to the penthouse

No! Oh Holt, I never should have let it go this far.

But you want me, Miranda, you cant deny it.

I ddo, she choked, but I cant do this, I wont do this. Theres someone else and I just cant betray him. He doesnt deserve it and Im a horrible, horrible person for doing this to

him. She dissolved into a fresh round of tears as Holt lifted his weight from her and gathered her nylons and shoes.

Here, you can fix yourself up in my bathroom.

The gentleness of his voice only confused her more. Shouldnt he be angry or hurt by her rejection? But he wasnt. The only discernable emotion she read on his face was sadness, and somehow that seemed even worse than if hed shouted at her in indignation for working him up only to push him away at the last minute. He helped her up then gripped her around the waist when she swayed unsteadily. She couldnt look at him, the shame was just too great.

Im sorry, Miranda. Im the one who let things get out of hand so you shouldnt blame yourself for what happened. It was inappropriate, especially in the work place, and I wouldnt blame you if walked out or wanted to file charges for harassment.

Id never do that to you, she said vehemently.

So I wasnt imagining it? You do feel something for me, dont you?

Her voice with laced with misery, It doesnt matter how I feel, Holt.

It matters to me, he said softly.

Miranda drew in a deep breath. Even now she wanted him so bad it hurt, but she wouldnt act on it ever again and had to make sure he didnt either. Dont say things like that to me, Holt. Theres someone else in my life, someone I care about deeply and I wont allow sexual attraction between the two of us ruin what he and I have.

Is that all it is, Miranda, sexual attraction?

She met his gaze. Not for me, but then you already know that, dont you? Be honest, Holt, once you saw me in that dress I became just another conquest to you. Your love life is like a revolving door with women coming and going so fast its a wonder you can remember any of their names. Im nothing to you and if wed made love, you would have regretted later.

Holt shook his head. Youre wrong, Miranda, its much more than sexual attraction for me and I wouldnt have regretted a single moment of making love to you.

Chapter 8
Her resolve wavered for a few seconds before the image of Jacks bone melting smile imprinted itself in her minds eye. We both would have regretted it. Im not the type who cheats and youre not the type of man who tries to seduce a woman whos spoken for.

This is different, Miranda. Whether you want to admit it or not, whats happening between us more than physical. If this other man meant so much to you, I wouldnt have been able to kiss you like I did and you certainly wouldnt have been writhing beneath me as if you couldnt wait another second to have me inside of you. You wanted the intimacy of becoming a part of me because you have feelings for me and I wanted that too. I do care for you, Miranda, and I want more than just a brief affair.

Tears brimmed her eyes once more. I cant. She pulled away from him and headed for the bathroom but paused in the doorway and looked back at Holt. This never happened, she said unevenly then went into the bathroom and quietly closed the door.

Oh, it happened all right, he mumbled under his breath. And its going to happen again and again until you admit that Jack is just a substitute for me.

He was still standing where shed left him when Miranda emerged from the bathroom. Without a word she walked briskly past him to retrieve her hair clip and the papers hed dropped on the desk. She looked so miserable all Holt wanted to do was take her in his arms and hold her but she was far too emotionally unstable right now to accept even the slightest gesture of intimacy. She left as quietly as shed entered and after staring at the door for quite some time, he finally went back to his desk and sat down.

Trying to work was a waste of time and after a few hours, he gave up. He couldnt stop thinking about her, not with the taste of her still lingering on his lips and the memory of her passionate response to his kisses. Hed never wanted any woman the way he wanted Miranda and he was determined to have her. Considering his past and his aversion to commitment, he supposed it should have scared him to death to be dreaming of marriage and children and white picket fences, but somehow it seemed to bring him an inner peace hed never known before. It could have all been so simple if only hed recognized sooner that what he was feeling for her was more than just desire. But in his own defense, hed never been in love before.

Feeling restless and wanting an excuse to make sure Miranda was all right, he decided to go to lunch early. Normally, hed have her order take out but he was too wound up to remain in the office. Besides, he needed to come up with a bullet proof plan to get Miranda to own up to her feelings for him. Holt shook his head. The tables had certainly been turned on him this time. Usually he was the one running like a scared rabbit when being pursued by a woman determined to get a ring on his finger, and now here he was doing the chasing.

For the first time in his life he felt compassion for all the women hed seduced into his bed then avoided like the plague afterwards. Of course, he never dated anyone more than two or three times because he didnt want the emotional involvement that inevitably arose, but even keeping his encounters brief hadnt always worked. Hed felt nothing but disgust and irritation whenever one of them would cry and beg him not to cut them out of his life. And hed been downright cold if they demanded to know why he was ending it or wanted to know what theyd done wrong. Had they been consumed with this abominable sense of desperation just as he

was? Because he was desperate, he realized. His insides churned with it whenever he considered the possibility that Miranda might never come around.

Holt grabbed his jacket and slipped it on. No, he wouldnt allow himself to think like that. She was his, they belonged together, and he was going to take whatever steps were necessary to make her his wife. All he had to do was keep her off balance until the scales tipped his way. It shouldnt be too hard, he reasoned, considering how strongly she reacted to his touch. Hed have to be careful not to overdo it though because he didnt want her so confused she couldnt figure out what she was feeling or even worse, send her running in the wrong direction. Slow and steady, that was his course of action.

Holt stopped at her desk on his way out and was relieved to see she seemed to have pulled herself together. Even the tight bun was back in place but that was okay with him. Thats all he needed was to have one of his male employees start sniffing around her and throw a monkey wrench into the whole thing. Not that he thought Miranda would be interested in another man, but hed discovered he had a jealous streak a mile wide when it came to her and it wouldnt do to have rumors started about him and his lovely assistant. At least not until after they were married. Then they could gossip and speculate all they wanted, and he had no doubt they would since there had never been anything even remotely romantic about his relationship with Miranda before.

Im going to lunch, can I bring you anything?

Miranda didnt look at him. No, thank you.

You are going to eat, arent you?

Actually, I planned on working through lunch. Ive got a lot to do and Im not really hungry anyway.

He leaned over the desk hoping shed turn those beautiful jade eyes to his but she remained rigid as a statue. You need to eat, sweetheart.

Dont call me that, she hissed.

Holt couldnt resist baiting her. Do you prefer honey, or perhaps darling?

Miranda did look at him then, but her irritation died instantly at the lop-sided grin he wore. Youre not funny, she said but couldnt quite keep a smile from forming.

Ill bring you lunch. No arguments, he cut her off when she opened her mouth to protest.

Miranda watched him until he disappeared around the corner. He was incorrigible, impossible, domineering, andshe was still hopelessly in love with him. Oh God, what was she going to do? She might have been able to lock her feelings for him away in a small corner of her heart if hed remained as aloof towards her as hed been over the past three years, but how could she possibly keep them contained if he continued to unleash that seductive charm on her? Shed seen how Holt went after something he wanted. He was relentless, and failure was not an option. She doubted he even knew the meaning of the word, and more than anything Miranda was terrified she wouldnt be able to hold out against him.

***

Hed been pacing like a caged animal for almost forty-five minutes, stopping occasionally to check the time. This whole love thing wasnt all it was cracked up to be. For one thing, going practically the whole day without kissing Miranda had been pure torture. Not being able to reach out and touch her whenever he wanted was nothing short of hell. Slowly but surely, she was driving him insane and he hadnt gotten one solitary thing accomplished at work all day. At least hed managed to get the furniture all in place so the condo would look more like a home than a storage unit. Jack glanced at the clock, a dark scowl beginning to form. Where the hell was she? The chiming of the doorbell sent him bolting from the room. He was out of control and he knew it, but right now he simply didnt give a damn.

Mirandas breath caught in her throat the minute the door was thrown open and she got a brief glimpse of Jacks face. Shed seen that look before, but never had it been so intense, soanimalistic. He dragged her into his arms, his mouth devouring hers with a hunger that was so fierce she was instantly swept away by the sheer force of it. Vaguely, it registered that hed inched her through the doorway and closed the door, but every nerve and fiber in her body was acutely aware that he was frantically trying to tug off her clothes.

It might have been easier to undress her if he didnt have her pinned against the door, but he couldnt seem to stop kissing her long enough to finish the job. He got as far as peeling off her nylons and panties before the burning need to be inside of her became as crucial to his life as his next heartbeat. After hastily shoving his jeans and boxers down to his knees, Jack cupped her bottom and lifted her up, a feral groan of exquisite pleasure tearing from his throat when he thrust heavily into her. Nothing in his entire life had ever felt so good or so incredibly right. Her muscles clenched around his heated flesh and he groaned again, thrusting harder and deeper, her

muted cries pushing him over the edge with a violent shudder that seemed to go on forever before leaving him utterly drained.

Miranda clung to his shoulders in a mindless daze. Jacks labored breath whispered through her hair and his heart was hammering so hard in his chest she could feel the vibrations of it against her breasts. She feltravished, and rightly so because hed taken her with all the grace of a primal beast whose sole purpose in life was to mate. It had been wildly exciting and Mirandas body tingled with the delicious wickedness of it. She squirmed in his arms, letting out a small whimper of protest when his grasp loosened and her legs slid slowly down his thighs until her feet finally touched the ground. Her knees promptly buckled beneath her and she probably would have crumbled to the floor if Jack hadnt caught her around the waist and pulled her into his embrace.

Her head fell back and she met his tender gaze with flushed cheeks and a soft smile. Wow, was all she could think to say. Jacks husky laughter raked over her in a sensual caress and a second wave of desire began to swirl deep in her abdomen.

I missed you today, he said.

So I gathered. That was quite a greeting, Jack. Its going to be pretty rough to top that one when I come home tomorrow.

He let her go just long enough to yank his pants up then scooped her up in his arms and headed upstairs where a brand new bed was just waiting to be broken in. He didnt want to think about how rotten tomorrow would be; hed had enough pain and suffering as it was. He concentrated instead on the rapturous look on her face and how small and feminine she felt in his

arms. Not surprisingly, the clip had fallen from her hair and the friction of moving up and down against the wooden door had left it in wild disarray. She was stunning, a wanton pagan Goddess and she was his for the taking.

His step quickened when he reached the landing. Do you have any idea how miserable I was because of you today?

Miranda buried her nose in his neck, inhaling the heady masculine scent of him. How could you possibly be miserable because of me when I wasnt even with you?

Thats exactly what Im talking about. He deposited her on the bed and reached for the buttons of her blouse. I didnt get anything done at work because all I could think of was doing this. He pushed the blouse down over her shoulders and quickly divested Miranda of her bra.

She stood up obediently and let him strip off the rest of her clothes, her eyes following his movements as he removed his shoes and shirt and finally his boxers and jeans. He was beautiful, she thought when he stood before her gloriously naked. Sleek, perfectly contoured muscles rippled as he advanced on her and gently pushed her back onto the bed.

Again? She whispered with a sigh when he lowered himself over her and kneed her thighs apart.

Jack kissed the corner of her mouth, easing himself into her welcoming warmth. I hope you had a good lunch, sweetheart, because its going to be a very, very long time before you get dinner.

***

Lying in the darkness, snugly enfolded in his arms, Miranda smiled with the realization that she hadnt once thought of Holt since shed gotten home. But the smile faded into an unhappy frown almost immediately when she recalled that she certainly hadnt been thinking about Jack either when shed kissed Holt and nearly surrendered herself to him. How disastrous would her night have been if she had allowed that to happen? There was no way she could have come here pretending that everything was normal and she would have been compelled to confess her sins, although there was no way in hell she ever would have told him who shed been unfaithful with. Both men were so innately possessive of the things they viewed as theirs it would have caused a rift between the brothers that might never be repaired. No matter what happened, she could never allow herself to split a family like that nor could she bear the thought of hurting Jack with such a harsh betrayal.

And yet she couldnt seem to bury the memory of Holts searing kisses or the shameless way her body had responded to his touch. How had this happened? Two weeks ago shed been a lonely woman who had nothing more to look forward to than the solitude of her existence in the expansive rooms on her floor of the mansion. Now she was deeply involved with a devastatingly handsome man and being pursued by his twin brother whom she just happened to be in love with. Oh, this was just awful. How could she be in love with two men at the same time? But she was. In her heart Miranda knew she loved them both and would be crushed if she lost either one of them. The only solution was to ward off Holts advances and somehow make him believe she wasnt interested in whatever he was offering. It was the right thing to do. So why did her heart feel as if it was weighted down with rocks?

She wished she had someone to talk to but she could hardly go to Missy or Brianne. Missy would brand her a scarlet woman because in spite of her grandmothers long standing relationship with Jeeves, she never even looked at another man while her husband was alive. As for Bri, she was so flighty shed probably think it was exciting or worse, volunteer to coax one of them away from Miranda. Of course, her sister would magnanimously allow Miranda to choose which one she wanted to keep for herself, and therein lay the rub because she didnt know which one she loved more. True, shed loved Holt longer but it didnt take Jack one night to figure out he cared about her and wanted a future with her. She felt loved and wanted and desired with Jack. Lord, what was she going to do?

She slept poorly that night and woke in the morning feeling run down in both mind and body. It didnt help that she also had cramps which meant her monthly cycle was about to start, although it did lend a certain degree of relief since she and Jack had been careless more than once. Including last night, she thought ruefully as she dragged herself out of bed. It was foolish and irresponsible to let themselves get so carried away they forgot all about using protection and it certainly wouldnt help matters to end up pregnant at this juncture.

Still feeling sluggish even after a hot shower, Miranda wandered down to the kitchen to find Jack. He was an early riser and usually had the coffee made and was reading the morning paper by the time she rolled out of bed. Why anyone would want to be up at the crack of dawn was beyond her but at least by now he knew better than to try to carry on an intelligent conversation with her before shed had her morning coffee.

He set the paper down and jumped to his feet to pour her a cup then placed it in front of her before steeling a quick kiss. If she hadnt been feeling so grumpy she might have found it

amusing when he kept peeking over the top of the paper, obviously scrutinizing her mood and trying to gauge when it was safe to talk. On any other morning, she would have been fighting the urge to giggle or at the very least offered an encouraging smile, but somehow she couldnt even muster enough pity for the poor man to do that. After downing her coffee and going back for a second cup without having said a word, the silence began to wear on him. He shifted restlessly in his seat, folded and unfolded the paper several times then finally tossed it on the table.

Reaching out tentatively, he covered her hand with his and gave it a light squeeze. Are you feeling okay? You look a little tired.

I didnt sleep well and Im cramping, she said curtly, then instantly regretted it.

He looked so wounded Miranda couldnt help feeling sorry for him. After all, it was hardly his fault she was being torn up by her own inability to make a decision and stick with it. Rising from the table she went to Jack and settled herself in his lap, feeling immensely better the second his strong arms wrapped around her. She tilted her head back and it was all the inducement he needed to take advantage of her parted lips. Warmth spread through her body as his kisses slowly vanquished the turbulent emotions churning inside and restored a modicum of peace to her tormented heart.

Better? He whispered against her lips

Much.

I can guess why youre having cramps, is there a reason for the restless night?

She wanted desperately to tell him the truth, but how could she when the look he was giving her was so tender and caring it made her want to cry? He was such a good man and he deserved so much more than what she was giving him. She had to get Holt out her system, she just had to. It was the only way shed ever be able to make it work with Jack and right now she wanted that more than anything in the world.

I guess after a week of sleeping in and staying up late its a little rough getting back into the routine of work. When Jack didnt look entirely convinced, she slipped her arms around his neck and conjured up the sweetest smile she could. Maybe I should try going to bed earlier, what do you think?

I think youre trying to distract me, he said reproachfully.

Maybe just a little.

As much as Id like to unravel your deep, dark secrets, were both going to be late for work if we dont get going.

I know, she sighed. I wish we didnt have to go in at all today.

Why Miranda Carrington, arent you the little workaholic who skips lunches and stays late just to make sure everythings running like clockwork?

Thanks for reminding me what a conscientious employee I am, she said dryly as she climbed off his lap. She picked up their cups and brought them to the sink to wash. I forgot to tell you what a wonderful job you did putting this place together. I thought for sure wed be

arranging furniture for days but theres really not a lot to do except haul over some of my clothes and a few personal things.

She set the cups on the drain board then let out a startled squeak when she turned to find Jack standing right behind her. She recognized the solemn expression he wore because shed seen it in her own eyes just that morning when she caught her reflection in the mirror. It made her wonder if he werent hiding a few secrets too and if they weighed as heavily on his mind as hers did.

Is it happening too fast for you, Miranda? Is that whats bothering you?

She wrapped her arms around his waist, hugging herself to him. Ill admit at first it seemed like we were rushing things but then I thought of how it was before you came into my life. You make me happy, Jack, truly happy.

He clenched his jaws against the dull pain in his chest. How happy was she going to be when his deep, dark secrets were out in the open? Maybe he did make her happy on some level but he didnt have her whole heart anymore than she had his, and as much as it killed him to think about it, he had to put an end to this before it was too late.

***

Holt watched with amusement as Miranda leaned down to pick her pad up from the floor. It was the third time since shed sat down to take dictation that it shed sent it flying off her lap and though he hadnt said anything to her, the color in her cheeks told him she was

thoroughly embarrassed. Good, he was glad his presence made her nervous because it meant what happened between them on Monday morning wasnt just a kiss that got out of hand.

He wanted to laugh at the prim way she was holding herself and the painstaking way shed tried to make herself look as unappealing as possible by pulling her hair back into a tight knot and wearing one of those business suits that covered her feminine curves. He wondered how ruffled her feathers would be to learn it only turned him on even more because now he was visualizing pulling the clip out and letting her hair tumble down over her shoulders. He pictured her eyes growing dark with desire when he slipped off her jacket and slowly unbuttoned her blouse to reveal full, tantalizing breasts just waiting to be touched and suckled. He shifted in his chair, wincing at the uncomfortable strain against his zipper and forced himself to finish dictating the letter.

It had been a long week, one filled with sly touches and accidental brushes of their bodies anytime she got close enough for him to make it happen. Shed been careful to avoid getting into any tight places with him, skirting away as if any physical contact at all frightened her. It was smart of her to be scared because he found this game of cat and mouse exhilarating and it only made him want her more. Each sharp intake of breath when his hand touched hers sent blood rushing to his head and when she blushed as she was doing now the blood dashed in the opposite direction and pooled in his loins. It had been difficult not to pull her into his arms and kiss her until her resistance was so low he could do anything he wanted without so much as a whimper of protest. But doing so would have spoiled his plans for the business trip and he didnt want to give her any excuses for not going with him.

He had to give her credit, she was holding her own against him and he admired her determination to remain faithful to one man in spite of how relentless hed been in his subtle assaults. It made his blood boil just thinking about how primed shed be when he made his final move. No doubt his docile little Miranda would turn into the wildcat he knew she could be between the sheets and once she finally submitted to her own desires hed make her admit that she was his and always had been.

Miranda looked up from her pad expectantly after nearly a three minute pause. It wasnt like Holt to lose his train of thought but hed been doing it a lot lately and it put her on edge because she had the unsettling feeling it had something to do with her. At least he hadnt tried to kiss her again, though hed made quite a sport of touching her. Of course, he never made any kind of physical contact that could be construed as inappropriate but even the light brush of his hand against hers unnerved her. She felt guilty for allowing him to affect her this way and she felt even worse because the guilt didnt run nearly as deep as it should.

Holt stood up abruptly and walked over to the window. Do you have everything ready for our meeting with Edward Seymour?

Miranda stared at his back. Since when did he question whether shed completed any task hed asked her to do? All the files are in my drawer, the plane and hotel reservations have been made and Ive arranged for a car rental. I dont have the reports youll need because I thought it would be better to run them just before we leave so theyll be more accurate.

Good, thats good. What about yourboyfriend, is he okay with you being gone for a week?

Color stained her cheeks. I havent told him yet.

Holt didnt turn around. It would have been a monumental mistake to let her see the triumphant smile on his face. May I ask why not?

No particular reason, Miranda said, hoping she sounded nonchalant.

Are you stalling because you think hell be worried about the two of us being alone together?

In a voice that was almost convincing she said, Im not stalling, I was going to tell him tonight. And no, he wont be the least bit worried because he trusts me. It was true, Jack did trust her. The problem was, did she trust herself?

Chapter 9
Miranda left the office promptly at five oclock, thankful the weekend had finally come so she could push thoughts of Holt to the back of her mind for a few days. Jack had called earlier and offered to take her to dinner but she told him she wasnt up to it. What she really wanted was to do was curl up on the sofa next to him and watch an old movie then go to bed early and lose herself in the warmth of his body. They hadnt made love all week because of her cycle but it had ended that morning and she desperately needed to share that intimacy with him tonight. She imagined Jack was feeling rather needy at this point too, though he hadnt pushed her after her hormones had gone on the rampage and shed berated him for even suggesting they do anything until it was over.

She reached their condo in less than twenty minutes and was just opening the door when the phone rang. After a mad dash across the foyer into the living room she picked it up just in time to hear the soft click as the caller hung up. A quick glance at the caller I.D. told her it was Bri. Knowing her sister as well as she did, Miranda dug her cell phone out of her purse and held it in her hand for all of two seconds before the light vibration signaled Bris incoming call.

I tried your cell phone a few minutes ago and you didnt answer, Bri chided. You forgot to turn the ringer on again, didnt you?

I left the office in a hurry. I would have remembered eventually. Did you call to nag about my phone or was there something else?

You know full well theres something else, Miranda Lynn Carrington! Why didnt you tell me youd moved out of the mansion? I had to hear it from Missy, and dont think she didnt

lord it over me that youd told her before you told me. She said youd run off with for a week and then lost your head and moved in with him when you came back. She kept calling him that Devlin boy, which means shes forgotten his name only shes too stubborn to admit it. So there I was, she said dramatically, completely embarrassed because I had no idea when she drops the bomb and tells me you actually brought him to the mansion to meet her.

Bri, take a breath for Gods sake!

I cant believe it, this is so exciting. Of course Im still angry with you but I cant help being excited for you too. Oh Miranda, Im so happy that you and Holt finally got together. I know youve been bonkers over him for years and

Its not Holt, she interjected.

There was a moment of silence before a confused Bri said, What? But Missy said

Its Jack Devlin, his twin brother.

Oh Miranda, you didnt, you just couldnt!

Jack is a wonderful man, Miranda said defensively. I know what youre thinking, but youre wrong. Granted, I may have been attracted to him at first because he looks like Holt, but theyre completely different and I care for Jack because of who he is not because of who he reminds me of.

Are you trying to convince me or yourself?

Miranda dropped down onto the sofa and kicked her shoes off. I mean it, Bri. Im happy with Jack and he treats me so well, like Im something special.

You are something special. Im just worried that you settled for Jack because you couldnt have Holt. And dont try to tell me youre not still in love with Holt because youre not the type who gives your heart easily. Or the type to stop loving someone just because they dont love you back.

Miranda bit back the tears. So maybe I do still love him, but I truly love Jack too and honestly dont know what to do about it.

Why didnt you tell me what was happening? I would have been there for you, you know I would have.

Bris understanding tone only made it more difficult for her. Shed expected her carefree, flippant sister to laugh and rib her for getting into such a mess. This was a new side of Brianne shed never seen before and hadnt been quite prepared for. But as much as Miranda wanted to spill her guts and tell her sister everything, Jack would be home soon and she couldnt take the chance hed overhear her confessing that she was in love with Holt and probably always would be.

I cant talk right now. Maybe we can get together some time this weekend.

Oh all right, Bri sighed with disappointment.

Ill call you tomorrow morning and well set something up, she promised, heaving herself off the sofa. With any luck, shed have just enough time for a quick shower before Jack got home.

Jack stepped from around the corner and watched her as she hurried upstairs, his mind replaying the conversation. This wasnt how it was supposed to happen. Miranda was supposed to realize how much more she loved one over the other. Instead it was tearing her up inside because she saw the goodness in both of them and didnt know which way to turn. What option did he have now but to continue this charade until the end of next week when she left on the business trip to Texas? Whatever happened or didnt happen there would tell him exactly where he stood in her life and though he wanted to believe it would all work out in his favor, a part of him was terrified she wouldnt want anything to do with him afterwards.

Jack trudged up the stairs, wondering how a man who prided himself on his intelligence could have been so stupid as to get into a situation like this. It had only been a week and already he was tired of the condo and wished he could move back to the ranch but there was no way he could take Miranda there. It would be too easy for someone there to slip up and give him away. He might be able to get his housekeeper, Evie, to play along until he sorted things out but one loose tongued ranch hand would send the house of cards hed built crashing to the ground. No, it was safer to stay here until after the Texas trip.

He kicked off his boots then stretched out on the bed to wait for Miranda to finish her shower, contemplating the consequences of telling her the truth now. On one hand she might be so relieved shed forgive him, but on the other hand she might just hate him for what hed done. The sight of Miranda in tears as she packed her clothes and left him was something he

didnt think he could handle. She was just starting to come out of her shell, and instinctively he knew shed withdraw and never take a chance on love again if things went wrong between them.

Miranda stopped short when she came out of the bathroom nearly dropping the towel that was wound around her chest. Good Lord, you almost gave me a heart attack!

Jack gave her a lazy grin. All women say that. Its the combination of excessively good looks and undeniable charm.

What I meant was I didnt know you were home and you scared me. Her eyes wandered over his magnificently chiseled physique. I do have to agree with the excessively good looks, but the only thing undeniable is your over inflated ego.

Now that hurts, he said, affecting a wounded look.

Miranda sauntered over to the bed, still clutching the towel. Ill bet I can make you forget all about your bruised ego, she purred.

Whatever reply Jack had in mind died on his lips when she dropped the towel and did a cat like crawl across the bed to where he lay. Every muscle in his body went rigid as she straddled his thighs and pushed his shirt up to expose his chest then leaned forward and planted soft, feathery kisses all the way down to his waist. Air hissed from his lungs as those finely boned fingers pried open his belt buckle and lowered the zipper on his jeans. She glanced up at him, a sexy smile playing on her lips as she freed his throbbing flesh and took him on a slow, torturous journey to Heaven.

***

You were right, Jack said nearly two hours later as he lay beside her totally devoid of any strength. You made me forget all about my bruised ego.

Miranda laughed. I had ulterior motives but Im glad it worked out well for both of us.

Im starved, but Im not sure I have enough energy to make it all the way to the kitchen.

She was feeling a bit like a jellyfish herself but figured she owed it to him to fix dinner since shed declined his offer to take her out. Roast beef sandwiches and chips, thats the best I can do in my weakened condition.

Sweetheart, Id eat a dog biscuit right now if I didnt have to move a muscle to get it.

One dog biscuit coming right up, she chimed as she climbed out of bed and put on her robe.

Youre an angel, he told her when she came back a short time later carrying a tray with the sandwiches and soft drinks.

Miranda placed the tray in the middle of the bed then planted herself cross legged on one side of it. Now tell the truth, has any woman ever served you such a fine meal in bed before?

Jack chomped down on the sandwich and took a sip of his drink before answering. Actually, no.

You mean to tell me none of your girlfriends ever brought you breakfast in bed?

He shrugged and swallowed what was in his mouth. I never gave them the chance. I was always gone long before morning rolled around.

Miranda tilted her head, not quite sure if she believed him or not. Really? That seems a littlecold, dont you think?

At the time I never thought about it. All I cared about was getting the hell out so there wouldnt be a scene when she woke up.

You never brought any of them to your house?

Nope. It was easier if I went to their place. That way I could leave whenever I wanted.

Miranda frowned. Diddid you ever feel that way about me? Like you wanted to make a run for it?

Jack laughed at the forlorn look on her face. Sweetheart, I took you to my place that first time, remember? How could I have been planning an escape?

So I was the first woman youd ever taken up to Holts penthouse?

He leaned across the tray and pressed a soft kiss to her lips. Youre the only woman besides mother whos ever been in the penthouse, period. And youre the only woman whos ever spent the night.

Miranda snorted in disbelief. Oh please, Ive seen dozens of women traipse in and out of Holts office over the years. Theres no way he hasnt sneaked some of them up there for a lunch hour romp.

Jack didnt miss the slight slump of her shoulders or the reason behind it. She didnt like the idea that countless women had been made love to in the very bed hed shared with her for a week. Does that bother you?

She nibbled at her sandwich, keeping her eyes downcast so he couldnt see just how much it upset her. Of course not, its justwell, Holt is a good man. Hes kind and decent and its just not right for him to be with women who are so shallow. Theyre only with him because of his power and wealth anyway, she added bitterly. He shouldnt let them use him like that. Mirandas head snapped up, startled by Jacks amused laughter.

Now thats a first, honey. You think those women were using him instead of the other way around?

She tipped her chin defensively. Yes I do. The sex thing is mutual, but them trying to sink their claws into him so they can trap him into marriage is just plain disgusting.

Jack popped the last bite of his sandwich into his mouth then gulped down the remaining soda, all the while studying her intently. You really think Holt is kind and decent?

Miranda fidgeted, plucking imaginary lint from her robe. I know he doesnt come across that way to most people, and he certainly doesnt display it as openly as you do, but inside where it counts youre both the same.

Youre pretty defensive of him, he said, careful to hide what he was feeling. Should I be worried?

She bounced off the bed and grabbed up the tray, shooting him an angry glare. Dont be ridiculous! If Holt had any feelings for me he would have acted on them long before now.

Jack met her heated gaze without a hint of emotion. I wasnt worried about how he felt about you, Miranda; I was more concerned about how you felt about him.

He watched her eyes flicker as she floundered for something to say. When nothing came to her she simply turned on her heels and stomped out of the room. He figured shed take a few minutes to compose herself then come back and offer an apology along with the excuse hed made her so mad she didnt know how to respond, but the fact that she hadnt tried to deny anything spoke volumes as to how deeply her emotions ran. And Miranda had as much as admitted it when she was talking to her sister, but the real proof was in her unreasonable reaction to a question that could have been brushed aside with a light-hearted laugh.

Jack waited patiently for Miranda to return and, as hed predicted, she was sporting a contrite smile when she came back to bed and tucked herself up under his arm. Im sorry, he usurped her apology. What I said was uncalled for.

Maybe, but it was understandable considering hes your brother and the fact Ive known him a lot longer than you. I just want you know to that Id never be unfaithful to you, Jack.

I know, he said earnestly.

There was no need for Miranda to offer assurances of her faithfulness, but he didnt tell her that. And he didnt tell her he knew shed resisted being seduced by a man who had it honed down to a science in spite of the fact she wanted to give in. He also didnt tell her he was fully aware of the reason shed gone back to wearing her old work clothes and pulling her hair back or why she was so tense when she got home. She loved him, and thats all that mattered right now.

***

By Wednesday of the following week, Miranda was nothing but a bundle of nerves and was finding it increasingly difficult to maintain her composure around Holt. At first shed worried that her attraction to Jack was based on her feelings for Holt, but now she was beginning to wonder if it everything hadnt reversed itself. Was Holts masculine scent so alluring because it was the same as Jacks? Did she lose herself in his eyes, long for his kisses, his touch because he was the man shed been in love with for three years or because he was the exact image of the man shed given her heart and body to only a few short weeks ago? She didnt know and it was wearing her down, making her vulnerable.

Her life had become a pendulum; Holt getting her nerves wound up so tight she felt like a bowstring that had been stretched too tight, and Jack swinging her emotions back the other direction with his easy going manner and the way he gave so freely of his affections. The worst part was she couldnt really say anything to either one of them. It was entirely possible Holt meant nothing at all by the light touches and brief physical contact and it was only her own volatile mood that made her overly sensitive to his nearness. Shed been so certain he was doing it on purpose the week before, but since hed made no obvious overtures towards after that heated session in his office, Miranda was no longer sure of anything.

That night as she was packing for the trip, the knots in her stomach became so painful she had to stop what she was doing and sit down. Perched on the edge of the bed, she scolded herself for behaving like an adolescent. It was a business trip, she told herself, and it wasnt as if it was the first time shed accompanied Holt. Hed been a perfect gentleman all those other times and there was no reason to think hed act differently this time. Except for the memory of the passionate kisses theyd shared. And the fact hed come right out and told her he wanted to make love to her. And because she couldnt stop herself from wondering what it would feel like be lying naked in his arms.

Miranda stood up abruptly, her cheeks burning and the knots in her stomach growing tighter and tighter. This was stupid, just plain stupid. Holt wasnt going to try anything on this trip and even if he did, her love for Jack would make her impervious to him. She pulled a few of her new outfits from the closet and carried them to the bed when the answer to all her problems came to her. She would simply invite Jack to come with them. Once Holt knew it was his own brother she was involved with, hed bow out and shewell, she could finally lay to rest any feelings she still had for him.

Two strong arms wound around her waist and pulled her back against a heavily muscled chest. Warmth flooded through Miranda when her hair was drawn aside and a moist kiss traveled down her neck and back up again. If she could only hold onto this feeling, this incredible glow that radiated throughout her entire body whenever Jack was near, shed never have a moments doubt again as to who she belonged with.

So beautiful, he whispered in her ear. Did you know that you have the most exquisite behind?

Is that so?

Oh yes. And these, his hands moved up to cup her breasts, these are pure perfection.

Miranda drew in a shuddering breath when his thumbs raked over the taut peaks. Is that all you think about, my body parts?

Jack laughed softly. Sure, what else is there?

She let out a gasp of indignation and whirled around, fully intending to give him a thorough verbal lashing but the roguish grin and mischievous glint in his eyes instantly melted her heart. Lacing her arms around his neck, she tilted her head back and parted her lips in a silent demand for retribution. Jack eagerly obliged. It was magical, spectacular, utterly amazing, the things his kisses did to her and she thought that nothing in world could possibly be more wonderful than the feel of his lips on hers.

I had a brilliant idea just before you got here, she said when he let her up for air.

Jack arched his brows. You mean there are brains beneath the beauty?

Just hush and listen. I want you to come to Texas with me. Youd have to find something to do doing the day, of course, but the evenings would be oursand the nights.

He stared at her for a moment, caught by surprise and not exactly sure to handle it without hurting her feelings. I cant. I, uhwell, when you told me about the trip I thought it

would be a good time for me to get some business done too. Ive put it off too long already and The look of disappointment that crossed her face almost made him change his mind. Okay, sweetheart, Ill tell you what. I wont be able to go with you but maybe I can join you for at least one night.

Mirandas eyes lit up. Youd fly clear to Texas just to spend one night with me?

Sweetheart, Id fly clear to Texas to spend five minutes with you.

***

Miranda stared at the billowy clouds below but she wasnt really seeing them. She kept thinking about what Jack had said and how hed treated her to dinner and dancing then taken her home and made love to her. Hed been incredibly tender, touching and kissing and caressing for what seemed like hours before joining his body with hers. And this morning hed gotten up early to make her breakfast. Shed nearly cried when it was time to leave but hed distracted her with a good-bye kiss that would have knocked her socks off if shed been wearing any.

Youre unusually quiet, Holt broke into her thoughts. Is there something wrong?

No, just enjoying the view.

So was I, he grinned.

He was doing it again, seducing her with his suggestive words and husky voice and that look in his eyes that made her feel he wanted to cart her off to the nearest flat service. Miranda hastily turned her head away, biting down on her lip. Or was it that she wanted it so bad she was

only imagining all these things? Heaven help her, but she did want it to be real. Shed never act on her own feelings, but something sinful and wanton deep down inside of her wished Holt would just reach out and grab her and take what he wanted. What they both wanted. The devil on one shoulder, an angel on the other, she thought ruefully. Who would win?

She glanced back at Holt and blushed when she discovered he was still watching her, except now she had the uncanny feeling he knew exactly what shed been thinking. She bit back the urge to scream at him to stop it, to stop turning her insides to jelly and making her ache all over for him, to stop coaxing her thoughts, her love, away from Jack and to stop chipping away at her resistance so that she felt so weak even the slightest gesture on his part would make her forget her vow to be faithful to Jack. She never should have come with him.

Miranda jumped when his hand clamped down over hers and gave it a brief squeeze and it was all Holt could do to keep from patting himself on the back for a job well done. Over the past two weeks hed had more physical contact with her than over the entire three years shed worked for him. Hed given her light, caressing touches at every opportunity and had even managed to maneuver her into a corner a few times so that getting past him meant full body contact. Hed watched those jade eyes of hers widen in surprise then darken when the internal heat became too much to disguise. Hed smiled every time he sneaked up behind her and waited until she sensed he was there, delighting in the way she drew in a sharp breath or let out a little gasp and visibly trembled. He was almost afraid to move ahead with a full seduction of his sweet Miranda, certain that shed spontaneously combust the second there was any real intimacy between them.

Holt removed his hand, but not before giving her fingers a light stroke with his own. Buckle up, were getting ready to land.

Miranda fumbled with the buckle, her breath locking in her chest when he gently pushed her hands aside and did it for her. Thank you, she mumbled.

Funny, but I dont remember you ever being nervous about flying before.

His mocking smile was proof he knew damn well why she was nervous but she wasnt about to give him the satisfaction of acknowledging it. I think my breakfast didnt agree with me thats all. Dont worry, she added, I think I can reach the bag in time if I have to throw up.

His smile slipped a little as he eyed the distance between Miranda and the bag tucked into the pocket of the seat in front of her. Good, she thought, it wouldnt hurt for someone to take his ego down a peg or two and let him know not every female he encountered wanted to throw themselves at his feet and beg for attention. Just for affect, she covered her mouth when the wheels touched down and gave the passengers a little jolt. It was a huge miscalculation on her part because instead of drawing back in revolt, he settled his arm around her shoulders and asked if she was okay.

Im fine, really.

Her slender shoulders tensed beneath his grasp. Oh yes, she was definitely ripe for the picking and in just a few short days he was going to reap the rewards of his harvest. Hed been painstaking in his subtlety over the last two weeks but now it was time to gear up for a full

assault on her senses. Poor little Miranda wouldnt know what hit her and by the time she figured it out, it would be too late. One way or another, she was going to be his.

Chapter 10
Holt had the bellhop drop off his luggage in his suite then accompanied Miranda to the adjoining room, or rather rooms. Although his accommodations were more spacious, hed made sure she was afforded every comfort possible. He was pleased with her reaction when they stepped inside, laughing softly at the child like wonder in her eyes as she scampered off to investigate the rest of the suite. After tipping the bellhop and sending him on his way, Holt tracked Miranda down and found her in the elegantly furnished bedroom. Hed stayed at this hotel before of course, but it was the first time hed ever really noticed the grandeur of the place.

Do you like it?

Miranda whirled around and dazzled him with a huge smile. Its simply gorgeous, Holt! Ive stayed in some very nice hotels before when Bri and I went on vacation, but this place wins hands down. She ran her fingers over one of the massive posters with reverence. Just look at the woodwork on this bed.

Holt gritted his teeth, forcing back the groan of sheer agony at having to refrain from tossing her on top of the quilted mattress and having his way with her. He sent up a silent prayer of thanks when she moved away from the bed and disappeared into the bathroom but a moment later the torture continued when she poked her head out and told him to come and take a look.

Have you ever seen a tub this big before, Holt? Its made of pure marble and even has jet streams on the sides. Ill bet a person could just sit in here for hours and practically slip into a coma from being so relaxed. Missy would never allow something this sinful in her mansion. And

look, she pointed to the wall. Theres a television and a stereo system, and do you know theres even

Ive got to go, he said abruptly, then all but ran from the room.

Visions of Mirandas lithe form basking in the luxury of that tub then stepping out, her skin glistening with moisture, was more than he could bear at the moment. Flipping the lock on the door that connected their rooms, Holt breathed a sigh of relief when he was standing all alone in the expansive living quarters of his own suite. His reprieve was short lived, however, because Miranda followed him in looking genuinely concerned.

She laid her hand lightly on his arm. Are you okay? You looked like you were going to be ill.

Her touch was like a heated torch even through the fabric of his jacket. Miranda, you and I need to get something straight. He gripped her shoulders, his features almost harsh with the strain of holding himself back. Its difficult enough working with you every day and not being able to grab you up and kiss you until you drop this silly pretense that you dont want me. But if you ever, ever invite me into your bedroom again, youd damn well better understand the consequences of doing so.

Miranda braced her hands on his chest to keep him from pulling her closer but just like before, the contact with his rock hard body only ignited the tenacious hold she had on the flame of desire for him. She choked out his name and begged him not to do this to her but offered no further resistance when his mouth crashed down on hers in a fierce, possessive kiss. Thank God, she had enough presence of mind left to turn and flee the room the moment he released her. She

grabbed her purse as she flew through her suite and didnt stop until shed reached her bedroom and bolted the door. With shaky fingers, Miranda pulled out her cell phone and dialed Jacks number.

I miss you, she blurted out as soon as he answered.

I miss you too, honey.

Her ragged breathing evened out at the sound of his voice. Oh Jack, I dont think Ill last a whole week without seeing you.

His amused laughter floated through phone line. I hate to point out the obvious, sweetheart, but all you have to do is look at Holt and youre technically seeing me.

No, she said with vehemence, its not the same.

There was a short pause before he asked, Is everything okay, you sound funny.

She brought her fingertips to her swollen lips, the memory of Holts kiss permanently burned into her brain. II just miss you, thats all. Cant you delay your trip a little longer and come to Texas?

I wish I could. Im sorry, baby, Ive got to go or Ill miss my plane but you can call me any time you want, okay?

Miranda squeezed her eyes shut, forcing back the tears. Okay. Ill call you tonight before I go to bed.

Everything will be fine, I promise.

She hung up before she could do something foolish like tell him she loved him or confess that his brother just tried to seduce her again. For all her indignation when Jack had asked if there was anything to worry about where she and Holt were concerned, Miranda had to acknowledge to herself that she was incredibly weak when it came to Holt. How could she ask Jack to trust her when she didnt even trust herself? And how could she possibly continue their relationship if Holt was a constant threat? She couldnt, she thought dismally.

Dropping down onto the edge of the bed, Miranda finally had to face the fact that shed have to give it all up; her job, her relationship with Jack, her obsession with Holt. Nothing good could come of her staying in either of their lives. Even if she gave up her job so contact with Holt was minimal, she couldnt deny there was a part of her heart that would always belong to him. And what would happen if Jack invited her to a family gathering? The minute Jack saw the two of them together hed know she was in love with Holt. She didnt want to be the cause of a family quarrel, especially one that would come to physical blows if she knew the Devlin men as well as she thought she did.

With a heavy sigh of resignation, Miranda stood up and hauled her suitcase to the bed and started unpacking. Shed see Holt through his meeting with Edward Seymour then hand in her notice. As for breaking it off with Jack, shed have five days to come up with a plausible explanation and the rest of her life to regret it.

***

Miranda was mesmerized, as she always was, by the confidence and masterful way Holt conducted his meetings with clients; or in this case, a potential client. While he conducted the presentation, she glanced around at the Board members of Seymour Imports. Edward Seymour was a distinguished gentleman in his mid-fifties with a commanding presence almost as strong as Holts. To his right was his son, Jared, a younger version of Edward. She imagined he would slip comfortably into the position of running the company once his father retired because he held the same commanding presence. The other Board members seemed well-informed and highly competent in their positions based on the questions they asked, but it was the one female whod sauntered in five minutes late that rankled Miranda.

From the moment shed stepped in and introduced herself as the CEO, Miss Claire Dandridge, emphasizing the Miss, the woman hadnt taken her eyes off Holt. Naturally, everyone else was watching him since he was leading the presentation, but Miss Dandridge looked positively predatory sitting there with her pouty lips and sultry eyes and legs that went on forever. Shed turned slightly in her chair, crossing her legs in a manner that displayed them most prominently given the fact her skirt had been hiked up a couple of inches. Miranda hated her on sight. She was exactly the type of woman Holt always went for and there was no doubt in her mind where hed be spending the night.

Again, she had to remind herself that it was none of her business who Holt kept company with. He wasnt hers and he never would be. But the longer she sat there watching the blonde bombshell send barely concealed sexual messages to him, the more hostile Miranda became. Even worse, Claire Dandridge didnt so much as turn her head when Holt addressed Miranda regarding some figures on the proposal. It made her feel small and insignificant, as if

the woman was so unconcerned about Miranda as any sort of competition it wasnt worth her time to even acknowledge the existence of Holts lowly assistant. By the time the meeting was over, all she wanted to do was run back to her room and cry her eyes out. Either that or bludgeon Miss Dandridge with a dull instrument.

Holt kept a close eye on Miranda, though hed been so sly about it no one in the room would have noticed. While she hovered near the back of the room, he shook hands with all the men then turned to Claire with a broad smile. Taking her by the elbow, he nodded to a corner of the room where they could have a private conversation, well out of Mirandas earshot.

Claire looked up at him with eyes the color of a clear blue sky. Shes very pretty, Holt. Not the type of woman I would have expected you to end up with but certainly the type Id hoped you would.

His laughter floated across the room causing quite a reaction in Miranda. Right now shes shooting daggers at your back. I cant thank you enough for doing this for me, Claire. How long did it take Jared to talk you into it?

She waved her hand in the air dismissively. As soon as he told me you were madly in love with the woman I couldnt wait to be part of the plot to get you married off. What I dont understand is how shes managed to evade you so far. Ive seen you operate and youre as handsome as ever so why hasnt she succumbed to that Devlin charm?

Technically she has, but its a long story. Why dont you and Jared meet me for drinks after dinner and Ill give you all the gory details.

Only if I can put my engagement ring back on. He wasnt very happy about me taking it off in the first place.

Dont worry, you can slip it on as soon were done eating and shoo Miranda off to her room.

Claire glanced back at Miranda, purposely assessing her appearance with a bored sweep of her eyes before returning her gaze to Holt. I cant imagine shell hold out much longer. The poor girl looks positively miserable, and if that isnt love, I dont know what is.

I hope youre right, he said, the desperation in his voice obvious even to his own ears.

Claire put her hand on his arm and leaned into him. You want to really throw some wood on the fire? Kiss me on the cheek before I leave and keep your eyes on me until Im out the door. And for Gods sake, dont look at her to see how shes taking it; Ill fill you in on that when I see you later.

Holt gave her an award winning smile then leaned down and planted a lingering kiss on her cheek. It was excruciatingly difficult to keep his eyes from migrating to Miranda despite the fact Claire had her own feminine assets that most men couldnt ignore. As soon as the door closed behind her, Jared Seymour ambled over.

He clapped Holt on the back. She certainly takes a mans breath away, doesnt she?

Holt finally allowed himself a quick peek at Miranda. Yes she does, my friend.

Jared chuckled and shook his head. I was talking about Claire but youve plainly been roped and tied by Miss Carrington whether she knows it or not.

Was it like this for you when you fell for Claire?

I wish I could say I wasnt such a sap, but the truth is I still am. What is it about the right woman that can take even the strongest man and turn them into putty?

A smile tugged at the corner of Holts mouth. The thought of those soft hands molding and shaping you?

Jared simply nodded his agreement.

***

She was angry, not just at Claire Dandridge, but with herself as well. All through dinner she had to endure the woman fawning over Holt as if he was the last drink of water in a barren desert. And if that wasnt enough, hed soaked it up like a sponge, hanging on every word she said until Miranda wanted to throttle them both. To top off a perfectly horrible time at dinner, Holt had accepted Claires invitation to join her for drinks without so much as a glance at the end of the table where Miranda was sitting.

For two hours, she paced back and forth, muttering under her breath and pondering her own sanity. She had to be crazy to work herself up into a jealous rage over Holt when she had Jack. It was the only explanation, because she was also feeling a great deal of discomfort at not being able to reach Jack on the phone. What a twist of fate that would be to have both men walk away from her just when she was planning to throw the towel in. She supposed it would serve

her right, but acknowledging it didnt make it hurt any less. She was spared any further self recrimination when her cell phone finally rang around nine-thirty.

Sorry I couldnt call you back sooner, Jack apologized. I got caught up in a meeting and couldnt break away. How did your day go?

All right, I guess. I miss you something awful, Jack.

I miss you too, honey. So tell me about your meeting, does it look like the deal will go through?

Im sure it will. You know how great Holt is at these things. Hell have them eating out of the palm of his hand in no time. As a matter of fact, hes out having drinks with the CEO right now but I doubt theyre talking business.

A female CEO I presume?

Of course. She flirted with him outrageously during the entire meeting and was all over him at dinner.

Hes a grown man, honey, Im sure he can handle it.

Ashamed of herself for going on about Holt, she asked about Jacks day. Youve never discussed what it is you do. For all I know, youre a bookie or sell womens lingerie or something.

Jack hooted with laughter. Youre something else, Miranda Carrington, you know that?

So, what kind of company is it?

Ah baby, Im way too tired to give you all the ins and outs of my company. Ill tell you everything you want to know when you get back, okay?

You promise?

Ill bore you to tears with every little detail. Now get some sleep so you have time for your morning coffee. You know how grumpy you get if you dont have at least two cups.

I do not get grumpy!

Jack wisely refrained from arguing. Get some sleep and Ill call you in the morning. After he was sure shed had her coffee.

Miranda plopped down on the sofa and turned on the television. After twenty minutes of channel surfing she left it on an entertainment news channel and shuffled into the mini kitchen to see what array of snacks were supplied by the hotel. She hadnt eaten much at dinner, having lost her appetite due to the nauseating performance by Miss Dandridge, and now her stomach was grumbling in protest. Finding mostly candy bars or sweet treats, she settled on an orange from the huge fruit basket that had been left on the dining table. Shed barely eaten half of it when there was a light tap on the door. A quick look through the peek hole revealed a massive chest and nothing else.

Open up, its Holt.

I know that, she said through the door. Let me get my robe and

His impatient reply sounded more like a command than a request. Miranda, just open the door.

She hesitated for a fraction of a second before eking it open. Whats wrong, did that Devlin charm fail you tonight?

The only one its ever failed with is you, he said gruffly. Are you going to let me in or not?

She took a step back and let him in then trailed after him to the main room. I thought for sure you and blondie would be at her place working off a little excess energy.

Holts brows shot up. Careful sweetheart, you almost sounded jealous there.

Miranda crossed her arms. Why should I be jealous? Obviously your interest in me was as short lived as its been for all the other women in your life.

He took a step towards her, his eyes dark and dangerous. If that was true I wouldnt be here, would I?

Im not sure why youre here. At any rate, it doesnt matter to me one way or the other.

He moved closer, so close she had to tip her head back to look at him. Is that so? Then why did you look like you wanted lynch Claire during dinner?

Because it was disgusting the way she was throwing herself at you, Miranda said between clenched teeth.

Holt grinned. You were jealous.

Her eyes flashed. Stop saying that! I was embarrassed by her behavior and even more embarrassed by yours. Everyone at that table knew you were going to end up in bed together and it was just plain sickening to watch.

If you werent jealous and you really dont care one way or the other, why are you getting so worked up?

Miranda opened her mouth then snapped it shut again. Damn him for cornering her like this, and damn him for wearing that stupid smile when she was so mad at him she could hardly see straight. She took a few deep breaths to calm herself before speaking again.

Youd better go. Im sure Miss Dandridge is getting impatient waiting for you.

His arms slipped around her waist. Shes not waiting for me.

Her stomach twisted at what that implied. I see. Youve already had your fun with her and made your escape, is that it?

Holt lowered his head so they were cheek to cheek. Tell me, sweetheart, do I smell like Ive been with another woman?

Miranda inhaled slowly, intoxicated by the wholly male scent of his skin. No, she finally whispered.

His lips touched lightly against her temple. When are you going to get it through your head that I care about you?

It could never work, not now. Maybe if youd told me this a month ago, but theres someone else and

Theres no one else, baby. Its just you and me right now with enough passion between us to make it last all night.

Her voice came out as little more than a hoarse croak. We cant.

His fingers laced through her hair, giving just enough of a gentle tug to force her head back. We can, he growled softly. Let me make love to you, Miranda. Let me show you how much you mean to me.

Isnt it enough to know I want to? She choked back a sob. You know what you do to me but you also know Im involved with someone else so why do you keep pushing it?

Because its me you want. Admit it, if not to me then at least to yourself. Im the one you dream of, the one you wish was kissing you and holding you at night.

You dont understand, she cried.

Then explain it to me.

Its who Im involved with that makes it impossible for us tobe together. ItsJack.

I know.

Miranda drew her head back. You know?

Yes, and it doesnt make a bit of difference.

But hes your brother! Your betrayal would hurt him just as much as mine would.

There were a thousand arguments he could have offered to try and convince Miranda their union was inevitable, but none of them were going to change her mind tonight. Slowly, deliberately, he lowered his mouth to hers. She might deny him her body but she didnt hold anything back when it came to kissing him. He burned for her, the ache so strong he could feel it with every breath he took, but he wouldnt push her. There were still four nights left to convince her they belonged together.

With a great deal of reluctance, he ended the kiss. But that didnt mean he was willing to give up entirely. If you wont let me make love to you at least let me hold you in my arms tonight.

Holt

He kissed the side of her mouth. Just hold you, Miranda, nothing else. His lips moved to the other side. I need you. I need to feel you next to me.

I dont know

He cut her off with a long, hard kiss. Please, baby. Nothing will happen unless you want it to.

It wouldnt be cheating, she told herself, not if they didnt do anything. Theyd simply be sleeping in the same bed and offering each other comfort. And shed finally know what it was like to lay in his arms and wake up with him beside her. He whispered her name and kissed her again, effectively melting what little resistance she was still clinging to.

Justhold each other, and thats all?

Thats all.

She nodded slowly. Okay, but we sleep in your bed, not mine.

Holt couldnt stop himself from asking, What difference does it make?

Miranda smiled up at him. Because you told me the next time I invited you into my bedroom Id better damn well understand the consequences of doing so.

Fair enough, he chuckled, ushering her towards the connecting door and turning off the lights as they went. He wasnt taking any chances shed change her mind.

Miranda balked just inside his bedroom. Maybe we

Holt swung her up into his arms and carried her to the bed. No more talking tonight. When she opened her mouth to say something, he planted a kiss full on her lips. If I have to kiss you all night to keep you from talking, I will, he warned.

Miranda pressed her lips together, though in truth she hardly found it an incentive to remain quiet. Still, she didnt want things to get out of hand which is exactly what would happen if he gave her any more of those bone melting kisses. Somewhere in the back of her mind it

registered that he and Jack werent only identical in looks. Their touch was the same, their scent, the way they kissed. So what made it seem so much more powerful with Holt? Was it because her emotions were stronger or simply that shed loved him longer?

Holt lowered her onto the bed and started to undress while she climbed under the covers. Dont worry, he soothed when her eyes widened in alarm, Ill leave my boxers on.

Dropping his clothes at his feet, he flipped off the light and slipped between the sheets. An audible sigh whispered through her lips when he drew her up close to his side and wound his arms possessively around her. She was so fragile, so incredibly soft and feminine he was instantly aroused by the way her gentle curves molded to his. Holt closed his eyes. Hed given her his word he wouldnt try anything and hed keep that promise even if it killed him. Because he loved her. And because for now it was enough just to have her in his arms where she belonged.

Chapter 11
Miranda awoke with a soft smile on her lips and the warmth of Holts firm body curled around her. Her eyelids snapped open when she realized a certain part of his anatomy was a whole lot firmer than the rest of him, and a heavy ache settled deep in her abdomen, coiling tighter and tighter the longer she lay with her bottom nestled against his thighs. She noticed the smooth, easy rhythm of his breathing that had lulled her to sleep the night before was now decidedly ragged and knew Holt was awake too and no doubt suffering just as much as she was. What she should do was extricate herself from his arms and return to her room but somehow she just couldnt seem to do it.

Holt nuzzled the back of her neck with his nose, breathing in the citrusy aroma of her shampoo. You feel it too, dont you; the way our bodies fit together so perfectly, the passion thats so easily ignited between us. We were made for each other, sweetheart.

Tears squeezed from the corners of her eyes. You dont mean that.

I do, Miranda, with all my heart. And dont even try to convince me you dont feel the same because I know you do. You wouldnt be in my bed right now if you didnt.

But we didnt do anything, she reminded him.

We didnt have to. It wasnt about our bodies or sexual desire; it was about whats in our hearts.

It isnt your heart thats pressing against my backside right now, Miranda pointed out.

His hand slid over her hips and slipped between her thighs. And it isnt your heart thats making you ache to feel me inside of you right now either. You cant separate the two indefinitely. Sooner or later, I am going to make love to you.

No, this is as far as it goes. She moved away from him and scrambled out of bed. It was a mistake sleeping with you last night. It made me want things I cant have. Im sorry if I led you to believe there could ever be more between us.

Holt didnt try to stop her when she turned and walked stiffly from his room. He wasnt even overly concerned with her speech about it being a mistake to sleep with him because there had been a serious lack of conviction in her voice that belied her words. She was weakening, and these little bouts of rebellion or guilt or self-denial could be brushed aside with a few thorough kisses. Tucking his hands behind his neck, Holt smiled to himself. Shed be back in his bed tonight and the three nights that followed. If she didnt allow him to make love to her before they had to leave, hed just have to think of something else because he wasnt giving up. Not now. Not ever.

***

The guilt was eating her alive. It didnt matter that she and Holt had done nothing more than kiss, the fact remained that shed wanted to make love with him last night. She still wanted to. Shed been unfaithful to Jack in mind and heart if not in body, and she couldnt reconcile the woman whod been so rigid in her morals only a few short weeks ago with the woman shed become. Betraying Jacks trust was only one of her many sins. Shed led Holt on and foolishly let him know how much she wanted to have a relationship with him.

How could he even consider being with her after what shed done? How could he possibly know she wouldnt do to him what shed done to Jack? The only plausible explanation was that he wasnt planning on anything long term with her, and who could blame him? Even if hed considered it in the beginning, whatever respect he might have had for her would have dwindled to nothing after last night. All he was interested in now was getting her into bed just like all the other nameless, faceless women hed been with. But whether she slept with him or not didnt make any difference at this point because shed already lost.

Shed made up her mind to confess everything to Jack, but when hed called that morning he told her he was running late and would talk to her before she went to bed. Then when shed tried to discuss what happened with Holt, hed whisked her out of the room and informed her they were meeting Edward Seymour and his son for breakfast in one of the hotels restaurants. She managed to greet the two men with a forced smile then took her place beside Holt and buried her face in the menu, making a valiant effort to compose herself. She might have pulled it off too - if Claire Dandridge hadnt shown up.

No one could have missed the conspiratorial smile the blonde beauty and Holt shared, yet both Edward and Jared acted as if it was perfectly normal for their CEO to approach a business associate with such familiarity. And when Holt took the hand she offered and held it much longer than was necessary, neither of the Seymour men batted an eye or seemed uncomfortable by the blatant flirtation at all. Miranda, however, was beside herself. Shed just spent the night in Holts arms, half convinced that the feelings he professed to have for her were genuine. But now the reality of it came crashing down around her. For whatever reason, he and Claire hadnt been able to meet last night so Holt had turned to his timid little assistant as a poor, but available

substitute. There probably wasnt a doubt in his mind that he could seduce her, after all shed nearly had sex with him in his office, hadnt she?

So shed suffered through breakfast, picking at her food while Claire kept them all entertained with her melodious laughter and sharp wit. Miranda would have admired the woman for working her way up to CEO if she hadnt been so determined to hate her for capturing Holts attention so successfully. Even feeling as she did towards Claire, she grudgingly conceded the position at Seymour Imports hadnt been obtained by sleeping her way to the top. Miss Dandridge knew just about everything there was to know about the import business, which was evident by the questions she posed to Holt and in her responses to his inquiries.

And if breakfast wasnt a big enough nightmare, the trip back to the boardroom at Seymour Imports was even worse. Claire latched onto Holts arm the minute they rose from the table, and though Jared Seymour gallantly offered Miranda his arm, it only upset her more because Holt didnt seem to care in the least that she was being escorted by the handsome young man. Her heart was being cut to ribbons and he was as oblivious to her pain as he was to her.

The only thing that kept her from falling to pieces was knowing Claire-the-humanclinging-vine would have to detach herself from Holt once they reached the parking garage. Miranda had been planning to let loose on him the minute they were alone in the car but even that was denied her when Edward insisted they all ride in his limousine. Claire went first, claiming a spot on the seat facing the back of the vehicle and didnt even cast a glance Mirandas way when she climbed in next and took the seat opposite her. Both women looked expectantly at Holt when he ducked inside but Claire didnt hesitate to go after what she wanted.

Claire patted the seat beside her. Sit with me. With a slow, sexy smile she added, I promise I dont bite.

Holts husky laughter killed what little hope remained in Mirandas heart that he genuinely cared about her. Nothing hed told her the night before had been sincere. The pain that ripped through her was almost crippling but it was nothing compared to the crushing blow that he wasnt the man she thought he was. Shed always believed his indifference to women was something hed overcome, that hed realize what an enormous capacity for love he had once he met the right person; namely her. Now she understood just what an illusion it had been.

She wanted to scream and cry, to run as far away from there as she could and never look back. Shed been blinded by her love for Holt and hadnt seen he could never feel for her the way she did for him. And in choosing to spend the night with him, shed also destroyed her relationship with Jack. Even if she never confessed what shed done, Miranda would know. No matter how much she hated to admit it, she had to face the fact her love for Jack had developed as a result of his resemblance to Holt. True, a part of her loved him because of the man he was but it wasnt enough, not for either of them.

Miss Carrington, are you okay?

Miranda turned away from the window, offering Edward Seymour a thin smile. Im afraid lunch didnt agree with me but Im sure Ill be fine. Her eyes moved around the boardroom and the small groups of people, searching for Holt. She spotted him near the back of the room talking with Claire and Jared. Is the meeting about to start again?

You really arent feeling well, are you my dear? Weve decided to put it off until tomorrow so Claire can give you and Holt a tour of our company.

What little color remained in her face quickly drained. IIm sure they dont need me tagging along. Im just Miranda choked down the boulder that had lodged itself in her throat. Im just Holts assistant.

Edwards brows drew together. He looked over at Claire and Holt then turned back to her. I dont like whats going on here, he said with a frown. Its gone too far and I cant allow it to continue when it so obviously distresses you.

Panic welled up inside her. Shed be absolutely mortified if he said anything to Holt. Please, its okay.

Its not okay, he insisted. Whats going on between Claire and Holt isnt

Mr. Seymour, I appreciate what youre trying to do, but it isnt your place to intervene anymore than its mine. The smile she gave him matched the sadness in her eyes. Whatever feelings I have for Holt arent reciprocated, I promise you. Please, Im begging you not to let this affect your decision to do business with him. Hes an amazing man and you couldnt get a better company than Devlin Shipping. I have a great deal of respect for him and the way he runs his company. You wont regret signing those contracts.

Your loyalty is admirable, Miss Carrington, but I still think

Claires arrival put a halt to the conversation. She looped her arm through his, her expression reproachful. Youve monopolized Holts assistant long enough, Edward. Id like to

show them around and then clear out for the day. Her eyes locked with Mirandas. I have plans for this evening and dont want to keep my date waiting.

Edward looked genuinely piqued. I think you and I need to have a little talk before you go anywhere. As for Miss Carrington, shes not feeling well so Im going to escort her back to the hotel.

Claires self-assured demeanor slipped a notch. But you have to come with us, she insisted, it will ruinI mean, Holt specifically Her voice trailed off, obviously realizing shed revealed too much.

An agonizing jolt of pain shot straight through Mirandas chest as the meaning of Claires words sank in. My God, hed planned this! Bile rose in her throat, the cruelty of his actions making her physically ill. Holt wanted her along to witness the two of them together, but why? Was it so Miranda would see what shed passed up, a way of making her suffer for turning him down last night? Surely he knew what torture it would be for her watch Claire touching him and batting those bedroom eyes at him. Miranda staggered backwards, the assault on her overwrought emotions was just too much. She couldnt breathe, couldnt fill her lungs with enough air to keep her head from spinning. The room tilted, the concerned faces of Claire and Edward fading in and out then becoming a hazy blur. From far away, she heard Holt call out her name and then the darkness took hold and there was nothing.

Holt barreled past Claire and Edward just as Mirandas knees began to buckle. For a fraction of a second he caught the gut wrenching look of despair in her eyes before she lost

consciousness and collapsed in his arms. Cradling her to his chest, he followed Edward back to his office and eased her onto the leather sofa, his throat constricting at the sight of her pale skin.

What happened, Edward?

Its my fault, Claire said from just behind him. I tried to make her think my dinner date was with you andoh, Holt you should have seen her face! I know we were supposed to make her jealous, but she wasnt, she was just sohurt.

Holt smoothed the hair back from Mirandas face. Its not your fault, its mine. She was jealous, she told me so last night and admitted how much she cared for me. But this morning He shook his head.

Edward handed him a cold cloth. You couldnt have known shed react so badly. I seem to recall pulling a stunt like this on Jareds mother years ago in my first year of college.

Holt gently placed the cloth across Mirandas forehead. Apparently it worked better for you than it did for me.

Not really, he chuckled. Mrs. Seymour has one hellacious temper. She caught me in the library sitting next to my partner in crime and used her purse to lay one nasty wallop to the back of my head. Then she told me Id damn well better marry her or shed find something harder to hit me with and really knock some sense into me.

Holt glanced back at him. Thanks for trying to make me feel better. Unfortunately, Miranda doesnt have the temperment your wife has. At this point Id welcome a good whack on the back of the head if it meant shed order me to marry her.

Jared slipped through the door, immediately going to Claires side. How is she?

Holt turned back to Miranda, the tightness in his chest easing a little when her eyelids fluttered open. He took her hand and pressed a soft kiss to her fingertips. Hey, sweetheart, how are you feeling?

Confused and disoriented, it took Miranda a few minutes to figure out she was in Edwards office. Her gaze moved past Holt. IIm sorry, Edward, I didnt mean to cause you any trouble.

His smile was warm and reassuring. You dont need to apologize, my dear. Just rest for a few minutes while I have the limousine brought around so Holt can take you back to the hotel.

Her blood turned to ice. I dont need a chaperone, she pulled her hand from Holts grasp, and Im sure hed much rather accompany Miss Dandridge on a personal tour.

A slap in the face couldnt have shocked or hurt Holt more than the chill in her tone but he masked his own emotions behind a stern look and commanding voice. Im taking you so theres no use arguing. Edward, if youll arrange for that ride.

Of course.

Claire stepped closer and peered over Holts shoulder. Im sorry, I shouldnt have said She bit down on her lip, exchanging a worried glance with Jared when Miranda turned her head away.

Knowing Claire shared his guilt, Holt told her not to worry. Ill give you a call when shes feeling better and weve had a chance to talk.

Edward returned to the small group surrounding Miranda. Itll be waiting downstairs by the time you get there. He took the cloth Holt handed him. You take care of her or youll have me to answer to. His tone softened when he turned to Miranda. As for you, young lady, youre wrong if you think theres no reciprocation.

Mirandas eyes darted to Holt but he was saying something to Jared and seemed not have heard. She thanked Edward for his kindness then let out a small squeak of protest when Holt leaned down and scooped her up in his arms. His jaw was firmly set, his expression unwavering; any argument on her part would only fall on deaf ears so she didnt even bother trying. She felt silly being carried past all of Edwards corporate staff and hid her face in Holts neck to avoid the curious stares. She couldnt imagine Claire Dandridge ever having a panic attack or falling into a dead faint over anything and couldnt help wondering if Holt was irritated with her for ruining his afternoon with the sultry blonde.

Just as Edward promised, the limousine was waiting right outside the front entrance. Holt let her down so she could get in then climbed in himself and took the seat right next to her. He was so close in fact, their shoulders touched and the whole length of his thigh was pressed up against hers. She inched away but he only scooted right along with her until she was trapped between the door and his body. Miranda shot him a withering glare but Holt appeared totally unaffected by it. He simply stared straight ahead, his face expressionless, his lips drawn into a straight line. He was angry with her, Miranda thought, but she was far from contrite about it. She was glad shed messed up his plans with Claire but her mood quickly took a downhill crash

course when she realized hed only miss out on the afternoon tour. Hed still have the whole night to spend with the woman and there wasnt a single thing she could do to stop it.

For the rest of the drive, Miranda kept her face turned towards the window with her jaws clenched tight. She refused to talk to him and she refused to cry, and not for all the gold in the world would she give Holt the satisfaction of knowing how much hed hurt her. Not that he cared, she thought bitterly. All that mattered to him was tucking her away in the hotel so he could get back to Claire.

Were here, Holt said as the chauffer pulled up to their hotel.

Miranda ignored the hand he held out for her as she climbed out of the limousine. Dont even think about trying to carry me, she growled when he blocked the pathway to the hotel.

Holt didnt dare laugh, not when she was looked as if she wanted to take a swing at him. Absurd as it was, Miranda seemed to have no idea just how outmatched she was physically. He could have easily subdued her with one hand, but perhaps she knew hed never use force against her, which gave her a decided advantage in this particular standoff.

Youre white as a sheet and youre trembling, he reasoned. If you wont let me carry you at least let me help you up to the room.

I dont want or need your help, she snapped. Now if you dont mind removing the body block, Id like to go inside.

Holt smiled indulgently and stepped aside. Suit yourself.

Mirandas chin jutted up, a fierce determination in her eyes. Shed show him! Mustering what little dignity she had left, she took one wobbly step and stopped. A heated glare made Holts outstretched hand drop back to his side. Aware that she looked like a drunk the way she was weaving up the pathway, Miranda could only pray she didnt fall flat on her face. Her progress was slow and measured; even so, she felt as if every ounce of energy was being expended and could only attribute it to the light lunch shed eaten coupled with the emotional strain she was going through. Preoccupied with simply putting one foot in front of the other, she'd completely forgotten there were two levels of stairs that needed to be conquered before she could even reach the front entrance. Coming to a halt at the bottom of the steps she nearly burst into tears of frustration; shed never make it on her own.

Miranda, Holt said softly, please let me help you.

Without looking at him, she nodded her consent and once again found herself being swept up into his muscular arms. Surrendering to both her weakened physical and mental state, she let her head rest against his shoulder and closed her eyes. Every movement heightened her awareness of his physical strength and sexual allure while every breath she drew filled her senses with his masculine scent until she nearly lost sight of why they were returning to the hotel in the first place. It was only when they reached her room and hed carried her to the bed that Miranda was forced to face the harsh reality of the situation. His concern for her might very well be genuine but after hed dumped her off and tucked her in, hed most likely high tail it back to Claire Dandridges waiting arms.

She expected him to set her down on the bed; instead he lowered her feet to the ground, keeping his arms wound firmly around her waist. Miranda stared at his broad chest, stubbornly

refusing to look up at his face. He didnt say anything for several minutes. He simply held her, lightly stroking her back while the untamed jealous rage slowly ebbed, only to be replaced by a dark depression. Shed thrown away her chances with Jack, totally humiliated herself in front of the Seymours and Claire, and was now wilting like a rose in the hot sun because she was in love with a man who couldnt wait to leave her for another woman. How could she have made such a mess of their life?

Im sorry, Holt finally said.

Sorry for what, being here?

No, sweetheart, for what happened back at Seymour.

Anger swept back through her with a fury. You mean for trying to make me jealous and flaunting your desire for Claire? Dont worry about it, or me. She tried to wriggle free but he only held her tighter.

Okay, I admit I tried to make you jealous. I wanted you pea green with it so youd stop this foolishness and admit we belong together.

Really, she laughed coldly. You have an amazing way of showing me just how much you care. You planned all of this, didnt you? You wanted me to get so jealous Id hop into bed with you and when I wouldnt let you make lohave sex with me you decided to punish me.

Holt drew back his head in surprise. Punish you?

Yes, by making me follow you and Claire around all afternoon so I could watch you pant over each other.

Misery lined his face. Im so sorry, Miranda. I never thought youd be hurt by this. I only wanted to put some fight into you so youd stop playing it safe and take a chance on me, on us.

No Holt, you only want to take me to bed, not hear how I really feel about you.

Youre wrong. I dont want meaningless sex from you, Miranda, I want to make love to you, to show you how much you mean to me. And I do want to hear you say it out loud, not because I dont know how you feel but because I need to know you realize it too. He cupped her chin and gently forced her head back. Say it, Miranda. Youre in love with me.

She stared into his eyes, her heart hammering against her chest. There was no use denying it. Yes, she whispered, then louder, yes, Im in love with you. Miranda tore herself from his arms and turned her back on him. There, I said it. And now that you know, you can run like you always do when a woman starts to show any emotion towards you.

She stood there, trembling and vulnerable, waiting for the sound of his retreating footsteps but it never came. When she turned to face him again, she was not only shocked by the triumphant smile he wore but because hed removed his jacket and tie and was slowly unbuttoning his shirt. She took a few halting steps backwards, her eyes wide, nostrils flaring at what he obviously had in mind.

Whwhat are you doing? She stammered.

Undressing.

He shrugged his shirt off and let it flutter to the ground then kicked off his shoes before closing the distance between them. Cupping her face in his hands he kissed her, long and hard, possessing not just her mouth but everything that she was, and for the first time in his life, Holt Devlin allowed a woman to possess him. How this little wisp of a woman had gotten in under his radar was beyond him. Shed broad sided him, plain and simple, and shed done one hell of a good job too because he didnt even have the will to fight it. He belonged to her as surely as she belonged to him. All he had to do was convince her of it before she found out the truth about Jack.

Mirandas eyes opened slowly, not entirely aware just how long shed stood there after his mouth had left hers. It couldnt have been too long, but apparently long enough for him to have stripped her of her jacket and unbutton her blouse. Warm calloused hands glided down her waist, moved to her back and pried the zipper down on her skirt. She did nothing to help or hinder him as he deprived her of each piece of clothing one at a time until the only thing remaining was the clip in her hair.

Holt loosened the clip and tossed it across the room. I hate that thing, he growled softly, dont wear it again. Ridding himself of his slacks and boxers, he took her hand and led her to the bed. Say it again, he whispered, easing her back onto the mattress and gently kneeing her thighs apart.

Mirandas eyes widened, her breath non-existent as he pressed himself into her. He penetrated her slowly, stretching her inner muscles inch by inch until shed taken the entire

length of him inside of her. This was what shed yearned for, what shed needed so badly; not just a joining of the bodies, but of heart and mind and soul. With what little air was left in her lungs, she finally said the words that had been locked in her heart for so long.

I love you, Holt, I love you

Chapter 12
The afternoon merged with the evening and then into the darkness of night, and still Holt couldnt seem to make himself stop kissing her. Hed made love to her three times already, explored every inch of her silky skin with his hands and his mouth, and had gloried in the explosive sensations that assaulted his body when she did some very extensive exploring of her own. But it wasnt enough. He needed more. He wanted to be able to spend his nights making love to Miranda and wake up each morning for the rest of his life to find her curled up beside him. And he wanted to share each day with her just as they had for the past three years, working together like a well oiled machine, except now hed also demand that a few stolen kisses be allowed to help get him through each day.

Holt slowly drew his head back, irritated that the lack of food and his grumbling stomach were becoming a distraction. As difficult as it is to tear myself away from that delectable mouth of yours, Im afraid hunger is making it necessary.

I could do with a little nourishment myself, Miranda admitted.

Holt sat up and threw the covers back. Dinner for two coming right up. Ill call room service. Is there anything in particular youd like me to order?

Miranda groaned when he got out of bed and flipped the switch on the wall. Squinting against the sudden burst of light, she pulled the sheet up over her chest and sat up. Nothing too heavy, maybe a chicken salad and bread.

Pulling his slacks on without bothering with his boxers, he started for the living room to hunt down a menu but a glance backwards at Miranda halted him in his tracks. Her cheeks were

flushed, her lips full and pouty from all the hours of amorous kissing, and her hair was a tangled mess. Hed never seen a more beautiful woman in his life and just looking at her, knowing she was his, made his heart surge with a love that was so powerful it shook him to the core.

Mirandas eyes clouded with concern. Holt, are you okay?

I am now, he said with a smile then turned and left the room.

She stared at the empty doorway, not quite sure what to make of what hed said. She kicked her way out of the tangle of sheets trying not to read too much into it and padded to the bathroom to relieve herself. Feeling incredibly disheveled, she took a few minutes to wash her face and run a brush through her hair then pulled on a robe and returned to the bedroom. Perched on the edge of the bed she cast a quick glance at the clock, absently noting the time then did a double take. Was it really that late?

Miranda jumped up, anxiously scouring the room with her eyes. Where was her blasted cell phone? Jack would have tried to reach her hours ago and was probably frantic with worry by now. Guilt clawed at her insides. What would she say to him? What possible excuse could she give for not answering his call or at least responding to the numerous messages he was sure to have left? She couldnt do it. She couldnt call him and pretend everything was normal when shed just spent a good portion of the day and half the night in bed with his brother.

Moving numbly, she searched for several minutes before spotting it on the floor near the bed. It must have gotten knocked off when she and Holtno, she shook her head, she couldnt call Jack while images of Holt making love to her were still so vivid in her mind. Shed just have

to text him and hope he wasnt close enough to hear the ping of the phone alerting him there was a message. It was the cowards way out, but right now she felt like one so it seemed only fitting.

Miranda held the phone in her palm then drew in an unsteady breath and scrolled for messages. To her surprise, and immense relief, there was nothing in voice mail from Jack though hed left one text message. Even more surprising, hed left it only a few minutes ago while she was in the bathroom. The message was rather brief; an apology for not being able to call and that hed catch her in the morning. He said he didnt want to wake her, thus the text message, and that he was going to bed too.

Miranda frowned at the phone. Was he saying that to keep her from calling him back? Something didnt seem quite right and she had the nagging feeling that maybe Jack had been preoccupied doing with someone else what she had just done with Holt. Somewhere deep inside a dull ache began to take hold. It was completely unreasonable for her to be hurt by the thought hed cheated on her considering shed just betrayed him too, but somehow it seemed worse for him to do it because it would have been purely for the sex and had nothing to do with love. Miranda set the phone back on the nightstand with a heavy sigh. Right or wrong, she had to admit to herself that being with Holt hadnt changed how she felt about Jack. She still loved them both.

Twenty minutes, Holt announced as he plopped down on the bed beside her. Were lucky the kitchen stays open twenty-four hours a day here or wed have to resort to fruit and candy bars. He put his arm around her, an uneasiness gripping his chest when her slender shoulders tensed. Miranda, honey, whats wrong?

She stared at the wall for a minute before deciding it was time to clear the air of everything. Did you have a date with Claire tonight?

He hugged her to his side, chuckling. No, and theres nothing going on between us either. The only thing Im guilty of is asking Claire to go along with this crazy scheme to make you jealous. Jared is an old college buddy of mine and Ive known Claire almost as long as he has. And before you ask, she and I have never been romantically or physically involved. Shes engaged to Jared, the wedding is next month.

Mirandas shoulders sagged. So they were all in on it; Claire, Jared, and even Edward. Oh Holt, how could you? Im so embarrassed about the way I acted and I was soso hostile towards her.

Sweetheart, you were supposed to feel that way. I promise you, if theyre upset with anyone over all of this its me.

Its not going to cost you this deal, is it?

No, as a matter of fact we may cut our trip short. I just talked to Jared and he said the corporate lawyers would be there on Monday so we can go over the contracts.

Miranda heaved a sigh of relief. Im glad I didnt ruin it for you.

Ruin it, he laughed, baby, youre the reason Edward agreed to sign them so easily. He told me what you said back in the boardroom, about respecting me and how he wouldnt find a better company than Devlin to look after his interests. He said if I instilled that kind of loyalty in someone like you, he felt confident in giving me his business.

Im really happy for you, Holt.

His brows drew together. You dont sound happy.

Well theretheres something else we need to talk about.

He didnt have to guess what, or more accurately, who it was about. Tilting her head back with his forefinger, Holt sought her lips for a brief but deeply satisfying kiss. Listen to me, sweetheart. Tonight is about us, you and me, and I dont want anything to spoil it. Tomorrow is Sunday so Seymour Imports will be closed. The only thing I have going on is a lunch date with Edward and his wife then Ill be free for the rest of the day. We can talk everything out then, okay?

But

Tomorrow, he said firmly.

A tap on the door put an end to the conversation, not that he had any intention of letting her voice any more concerns. It was just as well, she was famished and wanted nothing more than to have a nice relaxing meal with him then climb back into bed and sleep. She closed her eyes, a warm glow radiating from her chest and winding its way through her entire body at the thought of waking up in Holts arms. Theyd make love again in the morning, there was no question of that, and then maybe take a shower together. He was right, there would be time enough for talking tomorrow; tonight was about the two of them and no one else.

***

The morning came too soon, and with it a sense of dread that Miranda couldnt seem to dispel. Not even the tender way Holt had made love to her or the hard, passionate kiss hed given her before leaving for his lunch date had relieved the uneasiness. At first she thought it was the discussion she knew was going to take place as soon as he returned. Then she thought it was because Jack had made no attempt to call her that morning. She was afraid hed figured it out and couldnt even imagine how hurt he was. Or how angry. It wasnt until she got the call from Brianne that she began to wonder if this feeling she had wasnt some sort of precognition.

Miranda had been standing at the window staring blankly out at the darkening skies and the nasty storm that was starting to brew when her cell phone rang. Her stomach knotted instantly, her first thought being that it was Jack, and shed hesitated for a few seconds before finally putting a halt to the incessant ring. Shed never been so happy to hear from her sister in her life.

Miranda, thank God I reached you beforeor maybe I didnt. Are you okay?

Of course Im okay, why wouldnt I be?

Then you havent read the morning paper? Oh, what a silly question, Bri rambled, obviously you havent because youre in Texas and I doubt theyd have any reason to

Bri, for Petes sake spit it out. What in the world has gotten you so worked up?

Well, IIm not even sure I should tell you. Are you alone?

I am now. Holt left not too long ago for a lunch date with his new client.

There was a short pause before Brianne asked, What do you mean you are now?

Miranda couldnt hold it in any longer. Oh Bri, it finally happened. Holt and Iwell, suffice it to say he didnt go back to his own room last night and it was everything thing Id dreamed it would be. No, it was better than that, it wasthe most amazing night of my life. I know you must think Im just awful for doing this but once Holt kissed me I knew what a mistake Id made falling for Jack.

Um, Miranda, I was afraid you were going to take what I have to say pretty hard, but now you might not think its so bad.

It sounds serious.

It is, or at least I thought it was until you told me about you and Holt. I ran across it purely by accident and I was so afraid youd already seen it.

Bri, please!

Okay, okay. Its a wedding announcement, Miranda. Jacks wedding.

She clutched the phone to her ear as the room closed in on her. What? Are you sure?

It says Jack Devlin, son of socialite Rose Devlin. It cant be a coincidence and besides he looks exactly as you described him.

Mirandas head was spinning. This could not be happening, it just couldnt be! He must have wanted to surprise me, she said thinly.

Briannes tone sounded oddly confused. I suppose so. Arent you angry about this? If it was me, Id be furious with him.

How can I be mad at him? He probably thought it was a romantic gesture to have me see our wedding announcement in the paper. I just didnt expect this. I mean, hes never even said he loved me so I had no idea he was going to propose.

Oh dear, Bri murmured. Im afraid you misunderstood me. Jackwell, hes marrying someone else, Miranda. A woman hes apparently had a long term relationship named Christa Statham.

Miranda worked her way over to the sofa and lowered herself down onto the cushions. But hes been sleeping with me andand we just moved into the condo together. Why would he do that if he was planning on marrying this Christa person?

Bri sounded as if she was going to cry. I wish I knew. Maybe he wanted one last fling before he got married. Im so sorry, Miranda, but its not really such a bad thing, is it? You said yourself that youd made a mistake being with Jack and now you dont have to worry about how to break it off with him.

I know youre right, Im just a little shocked by it, thats all.

I wonder why Holt didnt tell you. Surely he knew his brother was involved with this woman even if he didnt know Jack was going to announce their wedding. It seems to me if he was interested in you himself, he wouldnt have wasted any time ratting out his brother.

Miranda rubbed her temple. Im not sure what to think. I didnt tell Holt about us, but somehow he knew so I have to assume Jack told him. What possible reason would he have for covering for Jack if he wanted me himself?

I hate to say this, but maybe Jack realized hed made a mistake and asked Holt to helpextricate him from the situation.

Mirandas heart sank in her chest. You mean they planned this together, she said dully.

I could be wrong, Bri was quick to recant.

No, it all fits too neatly to be anything else. Her temples throbbed, but the pain in her head was nothing compared to the pain in her heart. I dont think what happened with Jack was intentional, she said more to herself than to Bri. Things just got out of hand and we both lost control. He had to have cared about me at least a little, but I guess he realized he really did love this Statham woman and needed a way out.

So you think they concocted this idea for Holt to seduce you just so you wouldnt make a fuss when you found out about Jacks fianc?

Or that Id feel so guilty about sleeping with Holt Id break if off myself.

Her laugh was mocking; wasnt that exactly what shed planned on doing once she got back home? How humiliating would it have been to stand before him and confess her sins only to learn he was actually relieved? What Jack had done was wrong, but at least she could understand why hed done it. Well, maybe not the part where hed slept with her and made her think she meant something to him, but his reasons for wanting to end it.

What she couldnt come to terms with was the role Holt had played. Just exactly how had he intended to disentangle himself from their relationship once he was sure she wouldnt cause any trouble for Jack? Or maybe he hadnt thought that far ahead. Maybe he thought hed just keep using her until he got tired of her then brush her off as coldly as shed seen him do to other women.

I have to get out of here, she said. I have to A harsh sob tore from her throat. I thought he loved me, Bri. Last nightthe way he looked at me, the way heoh, how could I ever have believed a man like Holt could love me? Tears blurred her vision as she started pulling her clothes from the closet and tossing them on the bed.

Her sisters voice was uncharacteristically hard. He doesnt deserve you, and quite frankly Ive got a mind to tell him just what I think of him! You get your things packed and Ill make arrangements for you to catch the first flight out of there. Your ticket will be waiting for you when you get there and Ill meet you at the airport when you land. Her tone softened when Mirandas sobs became more audible. Dont worry, honey, Ill be here for you. Once you get over the initial shock of what hes done, well plot our revenge on that conniving rat.

Miranda managed a tearful good-bye and hung up. She didnt want revenge. She just wanted to get as far away from Holt as possible so she could nurse her broken heart in private. Hauling her suitcase onto the bed, she crammed her things inside as quickly as her shaky hands would allow then called for a bellhop. A notepad with the hotels name embossed across the top lay on the nightstand and Miranda grabbed it up along with a pen so she could leave Holt at note. Wiping the endless flow of tears away was only a waste of time so she didnt bother

trying, and big blobs of salty water dropped onto the paper as she wrote. After a few scribble words she tossed the notepad on the bed then picked up her suitcase and purse and left the room without a backward glance.

***

Holts fingers closed around the small velvet box in his pocket as he shut the door behind him. Miranda was probably going to be a little upset with him for being so late, but once he slipped the ring on her finger shed forget all about being mad at him. His head had been in the clouds all day and hed barely been able sit still during lunch with Edward and his wife. Afterwards hed gone from one jeweler to another searching for the perfect ring for Mirandas slender finger.

Hed made love to her in the morning then reluctantly left her to take a quick shower. It was while he was dressing that hed looked over and caught her watching him with a sleepy smile. His heart swelled in his chest and for the first time in his life, Holt actually got butterflies in his stomach from looking at woman. That was when he realized just how much he loved her and had decided right then and there he was going to ask her to marry him today. But not without a ring; she deserved to have him down on one knee with a glittering diamond in his hand when he proposed.

Holt strode into her suite, calling out her name. When she didnt answer, he thought she might be taking a shower so he headed for the bedroom. His footsteps stilled when he spotted the dresser drawers pulled open and completely emptied of their contents. Something akin to panic twisted in his gut as he went to check the bathroom, knowing all the while that he wouldnt find

her there. He told himself she must have gotten scared and run back home and there was no reason to be alarmed. Hed half expected her emotions to be in turmoil this morning, but when shed seemed as happy as he was to wake up in each others arms Holt had simply counted himself lucky and not given it another thought.

He should have known leaving her alone would be a big mistake; it gave her too much time to brood over what she considered infidelity on her part and probably just as big a transgression on his. It was a minor setback that was all. Hed call and try to calm her down, and if that didnt work hed stay here just long enough to meet with Edward and his lawyers in the morning then fly back and make her listen. Hed gone through too much to lose her now. And once he explained everything, once she understood how elaborate his plan had been to win her love surely shed forgive him. Right?

Holt raked his fingers through his hair. If he was so confident it would all work out, why did he still feel sick to his stomach? With a grimace, his eyes moved around the room noting the haste with which shed packed her things. Some of the drawers hung half opened while others had been yanked almost completely off the rollers. With a sinking heart, he realized just how hard shed taken it. What an idiot hed been not to comprehend that a woman like Miranda would think what theyd done was unforgiveable. It hadnt occurred to him before because hed known all along she wasnt really being unfaithful to Jack.

He headed for the door with a purposeful stride. It was time to call an end to this charade before it was too late. Just before he left the bedroom, Holt glanced back at the bed whered hed so recently made love to her. His eyes narrowed, zeroing in on the pad and the elegant handwriting he instantly recognized as Mirandas. His legs felt like lead as he retraced his steps

across the room then nearly failed him completely when he picked up the pad and read the brief message.

I know about Jacks engagement. How admirable of you; pretending to have feelings for me so I wouldnt cause trouble for your brother. I wont bother either of you again, please show me the same courtesy.

Holt stared at the tear stained paper, his jaws clenched so tight it was a wonder he didnt crack a few teeth. His mother had told him the engagement wouldnt be announced until sometime next week and hed counted on having those few extra days to forewarn Miranda. How shed found out about it was simple enough to figure out, but the conclusions shed jumped to because of it were far from the truth. No wonder shed cleared out of here as fast as she could. Knowing how Miranda felt about him, she had to be crushed by the idea hed only been using her. All hed wanted to do was love her, instead hed hurt her so bad shed run off, crying and broken hearted.

He couldnt call her now, he thought despondently. There was too much to say, too much that depended on getting her to listen to the entire story. If he called her, shed only hang up. No, he had to see her face to face and he couldnt put it off for even one day. Hed tell Edward there was a family emergency and that hed fly back in a few days to meet with the lawyers and go over the contracts. He wouldnt lose the deal over delaying the meeting and even if he did, Holt didnt really care. All that mattered was finding Miranda and making sure she never got away again.

***

Brianne greeted her with a sympathetic hug. Ive got one of the spare rooms all made up for you. I didnt think youd want to go back to the mansion and have to explain anything to Missy.

Thanks, Miranda whispered hoarsely.

Oh you poor thing, Bri fussed. Youve been crying so hard youve practically lost your voice. She steered Miranda towards the luggage carousel. Dont worry, Ill make you some tea with honey when we get home and then shuffle you off to bed. I figured youd probably want some time to pull yourself together before we talk about it and you really look like you could use a good nights sleep.

Miranda let her sister prattle on while they waited for her luggage but once theyd loaded the suitcase in Bris trunk and were on their way, she asked if they could make a quick stop at Jacks condo. She knew hed be out of town for a few more days and this would probably be the only opportunity shed have to gather her personal belongings before he returned. Bri wasnt very happy about waiting in the car but Miranda convinced her Jack might come home while she was inside.

If he does, honk the horn and then stall him so I have time to get out. I dont think I can handle talking to him right now.

Bri gave her a sad smile but Miranda knew her sister well. Brianne would love nothing more than to unleash a tirade on at least one of the Devlin men and wasnt about to pass up the

chance of facing off with Jack. He wouldnt show up of course, but Miranda kept that to herself and left Bri behind to play the role of lookout while she hurried up the stairs and into the condo.

It hit her hard the moment she opened the door and walked inside; the way shed given herself to Jack and the brief but happy time shed spent here with him. A part of her would probably always love him, just as a greater part of her would always love Holt. No matter what either of them had done to her, it was ultimately her decision to sleep with Holt. Whether Jack had intended to leave her or not made no difference because shed chosen to be unfaithful before shed learned of his engagement, and that was what disgusted her most about herself.

Grabbing the remaining pieces of her luggage from the closet, Miranda hastily threw in all her clothes and whatever personal items were in the bathroom. Jack had paid for most of the furniture and although shed purchased all the dishes and cooking utensils there was really no reason to take them. There was, however, a picture of the two of them on the bookshelf in the living room that theyd had taken in one of the casinos in Las Vegas and she didnt want to leave it behind. She carried it back to the bedroom and tucked it in one of the suitcases; it would serve as a reminder not to ever let her heart rule her head again. The last thing she did before leaving was to place the diamond horseshoe necklace Jack had given her on the nightstand.

Chapter 13
Holt sat on the edge of the bed with Mirandas necklace dangling from one finger. Apparently shed wanted to make a clean break and had stopped by the condo to clear out her things. He couldnt have been more than a few hours behind her so she must have packed up her things here as quickly as shed cleaned out her clothes at the hotel. But this time she hadnt left a note. All that remained of Miranda was the necklace and the soft, sweet scent that lingered on the pillow where shed slept when she lived here.

Hed tried calling her cell phone but she either wasnt answering or shed turned it off. When hed called the Carrington mansion, Jeeves had stiffly informed him Miranda wasnt there and that even if she had been, Holts call was unwelcomed. Obviously they were all aware of the announcement in the newspapers but he was too anxious to locate Miranda to attempt an explanation. Hed begged the man to give him Briannes phone number but the only reply hed gotten was the pointed click as Jeeves hung up. Directory assistance proved to be just as useless; Briannes number and address were unlisted.

His only hope was that Miranda would show up at work tomorrow, if for nothing else than to hand in her resignation. Hed hog tie her if thats what it took to make her listen, but he wouldnt let her leave until she agreed to marry him. Pocketing the necklace, Holt left the condo and drove to the Devlin corporate offices. Hed spend the night in the penthouse and get up early to make sure he didnt miss her because he had no doubt shed try to sneak in and out before he got there. Hed made a horrible mess of things but refused to believe he couldnt fix it. Somehow hed make it right again.

Holt let himself into the penthouse and trudged listlessly to his bedroom. What had started out as the perfect day had ended in heartache for both of them. Hed never felt so helpless in his life, and hed certainly never felt anything like this God awful pain that was squeezing his chest right now. He never wanted to feel it again either, and the only way to keep that from happening was to get Miranda back.

***

Miranda woke with a start when the alarm clock went off only an hour after shed fallen into a restless sleep. A fresh round of tears stung her eyes but she hastily wiped them away and reached for her phone. She left a voice message for the Human Resources Manager at Devlin informing the woman she was taking a leave of absence due to a personal issue and left instructions as to whom her replacement would be until Holt decided otherwise. Then she tiptoed down the hall to Briannes study, booted up the computer, typed up a short letter of resignation, and e-mailed it to Holt.

When that was done, she shuffled back to the bedroom and called the airlines to book an early morning flight then arranged for a cab to pick her up in thirty minutes. Sometime during the endless night shed made the decision to disappear for awhile, at least until she could draw a breath without bursting into tears. She loved Bri to death, but the last thing she needed right now was to face her sisters effervescent personality or any attempts to cheer her up. She didnt even want to think about what happened let alone talk about it, so the only choice she had was to go off alone somewhere.

Leaving a note telling Bri not to worry, Miranda repacked so shed only have to take one suitcase then got dressed and let herself out of the house. Dawn was just starting to break and it was a little chilly but she didnt have long to wait before the cab arrived. Her flight was scheduled to leave in an hour so shed be long gone before her sister even woke up. More importantly, shed be in the air before Devlin Shipping opened up for business. Assuming Holt cared enough to come back from Texas early hoping to catch her at the office, it would be too late to do anything about it once he figured out she wasnt coming in.

She had no particular destination in mind and had taken the first available flight heading east. It didnt really matter where she went; the loneliness would be just as stark and painful in one place as another but she was smart enough not to go anywhere she and Bri and vacationed before. Her sister might indulge her for a few days, maybe even a week, but after that Brianne would stop at nothing to hunt her down and try to drag her back home. What Bri didnt understand was that she had no home, not really. There was the Carrington mansion, of course, but she couldnt face her grandmother after what shed done, and she could hardly expect to move in with Bri. Shed never considered having a place of her own before, but now she wished she had.

Are you going to Kansas City too? The elderly woman next to her asked.

Mirandas eyes were vacant. I guess so.

The woman looked at her with concern. Are you okay, dear? This is a non-stop flight so if Kansas City isnt where you planned on going, you may want to talk to the stewardess before we take off.

Miranda shrugged and turned her face back to the window. I dont really care where I end up.

The woman studied her profile for a moment then fell silent and made no further attempt to speak to her. It was just as well, Miranda was too close to tears as it was; having anyone offer sympathy at this point would have been disastrous. She dozed off and on during the flight and once they landed in Kansas City she immediately purchased another ticket for Miami Beach. Not that she was interested in any of the entertainment the city had to offer, but she wanted to go someplace warm, someplace that might help thaw the chill that seemed to have penetrated the very marrow of her bones.

For the next three weeks, Miranda moved from city to city, never bothering to stay long enough to unpack. She called Bri every three or four days but kept their conversations brief, refusing to come home or let her sister know where she was. After the first few days of receiving calls from Bri and messages from Holt, Missy, and even a few from Jeeves, shed finally called the phone service and had her number changed. Brianne was furious with her but Miranda was tired and sick and just wanted to be left alone. Not surprisingly, Jack made no attempt to reach her.

She finally took refuge in a private bungalow on Little Palm Island just off the coast of Florida. In spite of the depression that had such a tight hold on her, Miranda couldnt help admire the white sandy beaches and the clear turquoise water surrounding the island. There were no clocks or televisions or distracting city noises, just the sound of the ocean waves lapping over the shore and the enchanting twittering of the native island birds. And the bungalow itself was

nothing short of spectacular with imported furnishings, slate floors, and a wide veranda from which she could watch the sunset.

Shed hoped the quiet solitude of the island would improve both her spiritual and physical health but by the end of the fourth day, she felt even more fatigued than ever and was barely able to hold down the meager portions of food shed eaten. Thinking she must have a bug of some sort, Miranda enquired about medical facilities and was told the resort employed their own physician. It wasnt necessary to make an appointment, though she did have to wait for almost half an hour before the doctor was able to see her. After conducting an examination and drawing blood for a few tests, the doctor left her alone to dress with the assurance hed have her feeling better in no time.

Twenty minutes later, Miranda emerged from the small medical office with a prescription in her hand and a dazed look on her face. The pharmacy was just a few doors down and there was only one person ahead of her in line, but she was anxious to get the prescription filled and return to the seclusion of her bungalow. Miranda smiled timidly at the pharmacist when she handed him the piece of paper, praying he would fill it without comment. It didnt happen.

This shouldnt take long, he said. The vitamins will help get your energy level up and youll be feeling much better in a day or so. Im sure the doctor told you that soda crackers and ginger ale will do wonders for the nausea but I always like to give a little reminder. He started typing her information into the computer, oblivious to the fact she was trembling like a leaf. Handing back her identification and insurance card, he asked with a broad smile, So, is this your first pregnancy?

***

Holts moods varied not just from day to day but from hour to hour, going from sullen and remorseful to frantic with worry and eventually reaching such a state of fury no one dared approach him. At first hed hired private detectives to stake out the mansion, and once theyd tracked down Briannes address hed had someone watching her place too. Two weeks after Miranda disappeared, in desperation hed gone to Bris house and waited outside for several hours before she finally came out. He was already out of his truck and halfway up her driveway before she spotted him, but instead of the rebuking hed expected she greeted him with a look that was almost as desolate as his.

Holt Devlin, right?

I have to talk to her, please

Briannes eyes misted with tears. She wont tell me where she is and she keeps moving around so I havent been able to find her. One of the detectives I hired had a good lead on her near Miami Beach but she stopped using her credit cards a week ago so they lost her trail. The look she gave him was so like Mirandas it stabbed at his heart. Im so worried about her.

Hed followed her back inside the house, accepting the cup of coffee she offered then sat down at the kitchen table with her. He didnt offer any excuses or explanations and she didnt ask for any, their only concern was finding Miranda and bringing her home. Holt told her about his own investigators, promising to get them working on the leads in Florida and to share any information they came up with. He asked about Mirandas friends, where she went on vacations,

and if there was anyone Brianne could think of who might know where she was at, but shed already checked out every place and person she could think of and came up empty handed.

They agreed she shouldnt tell Miranda hed joined forces with her because the calls to Brianne were the only assurance they had Miranda was okay. It might upset her to know Holt was privy to their conversations and neither of them wanted to take the chance shed stop calling altogether. After that, he and Brianne kept in close contact, and though news of Mirandas whereabouts was not forthcoming in the days and weeks that followed, he felt a tremendous amount of relief whenever he got word Miranda had called.

His days and nights were filled with a loneliness hed never known before and though he muddled through each day at work it was difficult to see someone else sitting at Mirandas desk and even more difficult not take his frustration out on the poor woman. As for the detectives hed hired, Holt grew progressively hostile towards them and their inability to locate Miranda and finally called in a favor from an old friend who was an F.B.I. agent. Confident that if anyone could find her, Ben Logan could, he received proof his trust wasnt misplaced when Ben called less than twenty-four hours after their discussion to say he had a lead.

How did you find her, Holt asked, did she finally use a credit card?

Not exactly. You know, you and I have been friends for a long time so before I tell you how I found her I have to ask you something. Just how close are you and Miss Carrington?

Holt didnt hesitate. Im in love with her, Ben. I messed up royally but if I could just see her again and explain everything I know I can fix things between us.

Are you planning on marrying her?

Ive been carrying a ring around in my pocket for over a month, does that answer your question?

Ben chuckled. I guess it does. Okay, buddy, hold on to your hat. Three days ago Miranda picked up a prescription. As soon as it was submitted to her insurance company we were able to trace it back to the pharmacy.

Holts heart lurched. How serious is it? What was the prescription for? I need to go to her, he said frantically, she shouldnt be alone when shes sick!

Calm down, shes not sick.

But you said

I said she had a prescription filled. Holt, it was for prenatal vitamins. Miranda is pregnant, and unless I misunderstood what you said about your relationship with her, congratulations are in order.

Holt blinked. Pregnant?

Thats the usual diagnosis for prenatal vitamins. Are you okay?

A slow grin spread across Holts face. Miranda was going to have a baby. His baby. Hot damn, Im going to be a father! Where is she?

Little Palm Island, you ever heard of it?

Yeah, its in the Florida Keys. Are you sure shes still there?

Ive got someone posted at the Welcome Station for the island so we know she hasnt come back to the Mainland. They have motor yachts coming and going all day long but no one fitting Mirandas description has been on any of the return trips. I could send someone out to the island to check if you want.

No, that wont be necessary. As soon as we hang up Im going to call my pilot and have him ready and waiting at the airport. I owe you big time, Ben.

Oh, youll pay big time too. I also expect an invitation to the wedding.

Holts first call after hanging up with Ben was to the pilot who usually flew Devlin Shippings private plane. His second call was to Brianne. I know where she is, he said, dispensing with the niceties of a proper greeting.

Oh thank God! Are you going to get her or do you want me to?

Im the one who chased her off, Ill be the one to bring her back. Ive already got my pilot on standby but shes on an island off the coast of Florida so it may a few days before we return.

Take all the time you need, just dont come home without her.

Holt laughed softly, his mood soaring. Not a chance in hell. Ive got to run, but I need to tell you a few things first. I want to thank you for not shutting me out even though you probably wanted to, and also for not drilling me about what happened.

Oh believe me, it took a monumental effort on my part not to nag you about it. The truth is I took one look at you the day you came to my house and knew just how miserable you were without her. You really love Miranda, dont you?

More than youll ever know. Theres something else I have to tell you but before I do, I need to ask for one more favor.

Anything, just name it.

I expect we wont be back for at least three or four days. Do you think you can throw together a wedding in that short a time?

Bri hooted with laughter. Itll be the grandest wedding any one ever whipped together, you can count on that.

He told her to jot down his mothers phone number. Shell know who to invite on my side and Im sure shell have plenty of resources at her fingertips. Just dont let her make it too big or try to run the show. Youll take care of Mirandas wedding dress and whatever else she needs?

No problem, whatever looks good on me will look fabulous on her.

Holt smiled into the phone. I know, Ive seen that green get up you conned her into wearing on New Years Eve.

Just leave everything to me. Now, what else did you have to tell me?

Twenty minutes later Holts ear was still ringing from the high pitched squeal Brianne let out when he told her she was going to be an aunt. Hed taken just enough time to pack before pushing the speed limit to the airport and boarding his private plane. It was going to be a long flight and theyd have to make a few stops to refuel but after all the waiting and worrying it was a relief to know where Miranda was and that soon hed be joining her. Nothing could dampen his spirits now.

***

Miranda hung up, not at all happy about her conversation with Brianne. Her sister asked how she was, as she usually did, but hadnt even tried to convince her to come home. Even more disconcerting, Bri seemed very upbeat and had rambled on about her boyfriend Chad and a big party they were going to in a few days. Miranda tried to act interested but secretly she was disappointed because this time when Bri asked her to come home shed planned on saying yes. Now it seemed selfish for her to return only disrupt her sisters life again. When Bri finally paused to take a breath, Miranda asked about Holt.

Has he tried to contact you lately?

Not for quite some time. Im sure youre relieved to know hes stopped looking for you, right?

Yes, of course, she choked back a rush of tears, its just

Just what?

Nothing. Ill call you in a few days.

What had she expected? After refusing to take his calls, changing her number, and hiding away on an island, did she really think hed continue to ask about her or try to find her? Sadly, the answer to that was yes. When Bri told her he had someone watching the mansion and that hed gone to all the trouble to find her sister too, Mirandas hopes had spiraled. But after telling Holt she didnt know where Miranda was he 'd apparently given up altogether. There seemed no reason to return, not when Bri sounded so happy and Holt didnt care enough to keep looking for her.

She wandered out onto the veranda, her hand absently resting against her flat belly. It was useless to think there might still be a future with Holt now that there was a baby on the way. She wanted to believe Holt was the father, but how could she know for sure? The night before shed flown to Texas shed had sex with Jack and they hadnt used protection. Then shed slept with Holt and been even more careless with him because theyd made love four times without the use of contraceptives. Shed done some research on her own about using DNA testing in determining paternity and discovered it was ninety-nine point nine percent accurate. Except in the case of twins.

Since identical twins are the result of one egg dividing and separating to form two identical babies, the DNA profiles are also identical. In short, it meant that both Jack and Holt would test positive as the babys father. There was no way to prove or disprove which of them actually impregnated her, not when the possible conception dates were within forty-eight hours of each other. Telling one or both of them would serve no purpose except to cast an even bigger stigma on her morals. No, regardless of her belief the baby was Holts, she could never tell him.

As the last of the days sun dipped below the horizon, Miranda turned to go back inside and nearly came unglued when she found herself pressed up against a solid mass. Two strong arms enveloped her, drew her closer, crushed her to the massive chest she knew with such intimate familiarity. No words came to her, only blessed relief that hed come for her at last.

Holt closed his eyes and inhaled deeply, filling his senses with her feminine scent and letting it breath life back into him. He held her to him, scared to let loose for even a second for fear shed disappear again. His first initial reaction at finding her door unlocked was to chastise her for being so careless but the moment hed spotted her on the veranda the only thing he could think of was getting his arms around her and keeping her there. If she hadnt whimpered a small protest because of how tight he was holding her, he would have been perfectly content to remain just as they were indefinitely.

He pressed his lips to her temple. I love you, Miranda.

She sagged against him. I love you too, but it will never

Hush, sweetheart. Ive got a lot of things to say and Ive come a long way to say them so the least you can do is hear me out.

Still as pushy as ever, she teased.

Keeping his arm around her, Holt propelled her inside to the sofa. Im not pushy, Im assertive. Sitting at an angle so he could look at her, he took Mirandas hand and started from the beginning. I think I must have loved you for quite some time, only I was too blind or too stupid to see it. I wasnt angry with you for wearing that dress to the New Years Eve party, I

was angry at myself for wanting you. And because I was forced to admit it was more than just a sexual desire I was feeling. I wasnt quite ready to handle it.

Oh Holt, if only you hadnt left I never would have met Jack and then none of this would have happened.

I did leave, but I came backto find you. After I gave my speech I went up to the penthouse and changed my clothes, intending to spend a nice quiet evening alone. But I couldnt get you out of my mind and so I tried calling you. When you didnt answer I started to wonder if youd gone back to the party. It was the thought of you leaving with someone else that finally made me go look for you.

Her voice was tinged with sadness. But Jack found me first. Id had a little too much to drink and went outside to get some fresh air.

Honey, I know what happened.

Miranda nodded slowly. Jack told you.

He didnt have to tell me. I was there, Miranda.

I dont understand. If you were there, why didnt you stop that man instead of waiting for Jack to do it?

Holt didnt answer right away. Instead he dug in his pocket and pulled out the necklace shed left at the condo. Here, this belongs to you.

Her eyes clouded. Youyou want me to wear the necklace Jack gave me?

He undid the clasp and waited for her to move her hair aside then looped it around her neck and clasped it again. I gave it to you, he said softly.

Youre confused, Holt, and youre confusing me.

He touched the diamond horseshoe with his finger. You asked me if it was supposed to bring you luck. I told you no, that it was a reminder of how lucky I was to have found you.

Miranda pushed his hand away impatiently. Is this another game? Jack bought this for me in Las Vegas and you know it.

No, honey, it was me. Its always been me.

EPILOGUE
Holt took her hand again, needing the physical contact. When I came looking for you in the parking lot and saw that man pawing you, I went crazy. I wanted to kill him but more than that I needed to make sure you were okay. Then when I was carrying you inside and you said I looked familiar, I thought you were joking and played along by saying I was my own evil twin, Jack.

Miranda drew in a sharp breath. But Jack is real! Bri saw the announcement for his engagement in the newspapers. And even if what youre saying is true, you had to have realized I honestly thought you were Jack long before we slept together.

Yes Jack is real, and hes my brother, but youve never met him. I figured out you really didnt know it was me, but not right away. I was going to tell you the truth but then you made some statement about how foolish it would be to get involved with your boss and that youd never jeopardize your job that way. I know this sounds awful, but keeping up the pretense of being Jack seemed like the perfect solution. He cleared his throat, waiting for what hed told her to sink in but she still didnt quite understand. I didnt want to lose the relationship we had at work, but I couldnt bear the thought of never making love to you again either so I

Comprehension hit her like a ton of bricks. You thought you could have the best of both worlds, she finished for him. You could be Holt during the day and it was business as usual, then turn into Jack at night and continue to be my lover.

Something like that, he mumbled.

She gaped at him in disbelief, all the while wondering why she wasnt absolutely livid with him. What if Id accidently run into him? What if Id thrown myself at him thinking he was the man Id been living with?

Holt shifted uncomfortably. Wellwe, uh, were not really twins. Hes two years younger than I am and even though theres a family resemblance I dont think you could ever mistake us for one another.

Why was she not surprised? Jack doesnt know about any of this, does he?

No. Youre the only one who knows the truth.

Didnt you even consider what it would do to me? I was in love with you but when you were so mean to me at the party I turned to Jack. Only it wasnt Jack, it was you. I couldnt understand how I could love you both. It didnt make sense. Oh, this is so confusing!

I know it is, honey, and Im truly sorry. I just never thought Id fall so hard for you and by the time I realized I was in love with you it was too late to tell you the truth. Thats when I decided to take you along on the trip to Texas and seduce you. I thought if I could get you to confess you loved me, you wouldnt be so angry when I told you the whole story.

Elation filled her heart. You mean it wasnt Jacks engagement that prompted you do it?

No, as a matter of fact his engagement wasnt even supposed to be announced until a week later. I knew you were in love with me but I also knew a part of you had fallen for the man

you thought was Jack. I guess what I really needed to prove was that given the choice, youd pick me. He smiled wryly. It sounds kind of stupid now. I was jealous of myself.

Miranda looked down at the hand holding hers. Doesnt it bother you that I was capable of being unfaithful? Technically I suppose I wasnt, but I didnt know you werent Jackor the other way around.

Look at me, sweetheart. When her eyes met his, Holt was once again assaulted with a healthy dose of guilt for what hed put her through. In all the time Ive known you, not once have I seen you look at another man the way you looked at me. If Id been honest about my own emotions, I might have recognized those feelings in you. I know why you thought you were in love with Jack.

Mirandas lip trembled. He was so much like you.

He is me, Holt reminded her with a smile. Thats who I am when Im with you. I love you, Miranda, and I know you would never be unfaithful to me. It was wrong of me to put you in that situation so Im going to give you that technicality because the only man youve ever made love to is me.

Miranda threw her arms around his neck. Oh Holt, Ive been so miserable without you. I didnt know how I was going to live the rest of my life without you and every day that went by was worse than the last.

I know how you feel, honey, it was the same for me. But its over now and we can go home. He kissed her neck, slowly working his way up towards her lips. There are just a few more little issues, he murmured against her cheek.

Cant it wait? If you dont kiss me soon I think Ill explode.

He gently pushed her away then got down on one knee and pulled the ring from his shirt pocket. Her eyes followed the glittering diamond as he placed it on her finger. Marry me, Miranda. I swear Ill never be dishonest with you again if youll just say yes.

Bursting with love and happiness and a renewed sense of hope, she cupped his handsome face in her hands and leaned forward so that her lips lightly brushed his. Yes, Holt Devlin, Ill marry you. Then she kissed him.

A groan of masculine pleasure vibrated in his chest when she dropped her hands from his face and tugged the ends of his shirt from his jeans. Without taking his mouth from hers, Holt managed to get to his feet and hoist her up in his arms. Moving in what he hoped was the direction of the bedroom, he carried Miranda down a hallway and ducked into the first doorway he came to. She giggled at his grunt of frustration when the room turned out to be the bathroom and flailed her arm to indicate the bedroom was further down the hall.

It seemed an eternity had passed since theyd last made love yet they came together as if theyd never been separated at all. His first heavy thrust filled her so completely Miranda thought she must surely have died and gone to Heaven. He pulled his hips back and drove into her again; possessing her, branding her as his own as each successive thrust brought her closer to the

peak. She gloried in the feel of his body moving in and out of her and the whispered words of love that now flowed so effortlessly from his mouth.

It didnt last long, but she hadnt expected it to. There was too much pent up emotion, too much raw desire that needed to be unleashed for them to prolong the inevitable explosive ending to their love making. Rocked by a series of convulsive spasms, Miranda could do nothing but cling to his broad shoulders as he rode her through the waves of pleasure to find his own shuddering release. As the warmth of his seed shot up inside of her an unbelievable joy simultaneously surged through her heart for there was no longer any doubt that the baby she carried was Holts.

Lying in his arms afterwards, she wondered how long she could hang onto her secret and how he would react once he knew. There had never been any discussion of children and though she knew Holt gave thousands of dollars in donations each year to childrens charities, shed never actually asked if he was merely being generous or if he genuinely liked kids. As much as it hurt to think about, whether he wanted this baby or not she could never give it up. If it meant living her life without Holt, she would just have to come to terms with it because her own needs would always be secondary to the babys.

Drawing in a slow breath, she forced herself to say, Holt, theres something I need to tell you.

He smiled in the darkness and pulled her closer. Dont worry, sweetheart, theres plenty of room at the ranch. Its a monstrous thing with three stories and more rooms than I know what to do with.

Im not worried about there being enough room for me.

His hand moved from her hip to her belly. Did I forget to mention what a turn on it is to make love to you knowing youve got my baby growing inside of you?

Miranda sprang up on one elbow. You knew? But how? I just found out myself and I never told anyone, not even Bri.

I have my sources. He pulled her back down into his arms. I never would have given up looking for you, he said fiercely. And once I found out you were pregnant it seemed even more urgent to bring you home. He turned on his side and though her face was hidden in shadows he knew she was smiling. I want this baby, Miranda. I want to get married and have half a dozen of them.

Thats a pretty tall order, she giggled.

Weve got a life time to fill it and weve got a head start.

Miranda covered his hand with hers. Such strong hands, she sighed, but they could also be so, so gentle. I was scared. When I found out I was pregnant I knew there was no chance you and I could ever be together again.

Did you honestly think Id desert you and my own child?

That was the problem, she said solemnly, I didnt know for sure which one of you was the father.

Holt shuddered to think how close hed come to losing her forever. You werent going to tell me you were pregnant, were you?

No.

Lets make a pact. No more little white lies, fibs, or half truths. Ever. Agreed?

Mr. Devlin, youve got yourself a deal.

***

There was quite a stir when she walked down the aisle in the flower garden of Rose Devlins country estate. Wearing a billowy lavender gown with a matching floppy hat that nearly obscured her face only gave credence to the stories that had been circulating for years. Escorted to the front row by an immaculately dressed Mr. Stanley, aka Jeeves, she lent mystery to the elaborate wedding that had somehow come together flawlessly in a matter of four days. Unable to believe she was actually here, Holt stepped down from the elevated platform and took her hand.

Leaning down, he kissed her cheek. You look radiant.

Missy Carrington beamed up at him. Thank you, young man. Now if you dont mind, Id like to see my granddaughter get married.

With a relieved sigh, he took his place back up on the platform. Hed been just the tiniest bit fearful that Missy would blurt out something outlandish about making an honest woman of Miranda or thank him for keeping his promise to marry her granddaughter if he got her

pregnant. Admittedly, Missy seemed to be on her best behavior today, but he wasnt counting any chickens until after the reception when the last guest waved good-bye and drove away. Holts attention turned to the maid of honor as the wedding march started and Bri began her procession down the aisle.

She was lovely in a pale green dress with her stylishly chic haircut and a vivacious spring to her walk. He supposed she would always stick out in a crowd and that men would forever be falling all over themselves to get to know her but to Holt, she was simply Mirandas sister. In his eyes there wasnt a woman alive who was more beautiful than the breathtaking vision in white who was now making her way towards him. She looked small and fragile in the old fashioned laced gown and it made those male dominated protective hormones kick in. Hed take care of her, he thought fiercely. Hed love and pamper her in ways only a husband could and make sure she never wanted for anything.

Miranda passed Bri her bouquet and took the hand that Holt offered her. Her heart hammered in her chest and a soft pink flush colored her cheeks, which was quite a contrast to the wane pallor of her skin that morning when shed bolted out of bed and made a mad dash for the bathroom. Holt had been right behind her, holding her hair back as she threw up what was left of last nights dinner then patiently wiped her face with a damp cloth afterwards. He was going to make a wonderful husband and a kind and loving father.

Mirandas eyes locked with his and everything else became merely a backdrop to the man standing before her. As if in a dream, they said their vows and I dos and exchanged rings then broke into silly grins when the minister pronounced them husband and wife. Holt drew her into him, looking happier than she could ever remember seeing him before.

Mrs. Devlin, he whispered, then lowered his head and kissed his wife.

Miranda melted into him, thinking nothing had ever tasted this sweet or felt so right. His lips moved slowly over hers, gradually pressing harder as the passion between them flared and swept them away into a world of their own. This was how a kiss was supposed to be; mind numbing, bone-melting, consuming.

She supposed she should have been embarrassed by the wanton moan that caught and held in her throat, or by the way she clung to his neck when he lifted her in his arms and continued to kiss her all the way back down the aisle. At the very least, Miranda should have been appalled by the way she plastered herself against him as if she couldnt wait to tear his clothes off and get him into bed. But she wasnt. After all, she was the granddaughter of Missy Carrington and this type of outrageous behavior was not only tolerated by their guests but expected. As such, Mrs. Holt Devlin did her best not to disappoint them.