WindSwept Narrows: #22 Erika & Vianne

By Karen Diroll-Nichols

Erika Vincent just wasn't sure when she'd lost control of her life. After years of school with no real place to call her own, what things she owned were in her room at her parents house. Somehow, in the middle or applying for licenses, she had a fiance she couldn't seem to get rid of. When a mixture of events does more than disturb her, she needs space.

No better place for some fresh air and space, than Puget Sound. And the small sandwich shop less than a mile from the beach was perfect. Or so she thought.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Karen Diroll-Nichols
• Release date: May 21, 2012
• ISBN: 9781476411026

Karen Diroll-Nichols

At this time books are on AllRomanceebooks.com or smashwords.com or amazon.com. I write what I dream. I dream because I can't always be or do. And I always write to make people think and laugh and feel. I hope I succeed. I've been creating what I believe we're all in search of. Friendships and romance; communication and pure, simple fun. Throw in some misadventures and misunderstandings, not to mention a few not quite truths, and it should be a roller coaster of laughs, tears and thoughts. WindSwept Narrows Resort & Casino - Modern, contemporary romance with the occasional mystery and usually lots of family issues. They're building a community that's not greed based, but on the well-being of all. Hopefully. Yes, there's lots of romance - sometimes more than one per story. Yes, there's really sensual and sexy scenes. Devil Hills is a town between Seattle and Spokane, on the edge of the snow capped mountains on the Seattle side. It's a shifter town...and a few others. And of course, just like our world, there are those who believe they know what's best for everyone. Yep, lots of sex, arguments and laughter. Typical human mistakes and misunderstandings - but with a little fur thrown in to complicate things. Independence: Bailey is the first entry into this series that should fascinate and intrigue...what happens in a life when a little Dom and D/s are thrown into it. Definitely NOT for the faint of heart...but it'll make you laugh and maybe even identify. Breanna...slightly more spicy with 2 smart, caring guys falling for 1 slightly mixed up barista who makes wicked coffee and loves cooking. While I haven't a series name - there is a follow-up to her coming out before the end of the year, Danea...a fishy little tale on the coast of Washington. A Red Crystal Romance - well...what to say...imagine believing you're at the end of your life. You live in a retirement home. You're alone. The past in your memories and just fatigue in your bones. You visit a small metaphysical shop, buy some candles that smell good and are offered a chance to fish in a caldron of crystals. Free and for good luck. When you wake in the morning...nothing will ever be the same again. Yes, some of my stories have more than one romance in it. Because it's not a bad thing to have friends *************** A bio - wow - I live to the South of Seattle along the coast in a small town called Des Moines. Gorgeous Puget Sound as our backyard, with snow capped mountains in almost all directions. I've been writing for over 20 years and in that time I have noticed how hard it is for certain people to embrace their sexuality, and very very few have the backbone to even discuss it! I think sex is a very important attribute to our lives and is necessary in order to live a balanced, happy and healthy lifestyle. It exists for exploration and simulation; it exists for bonding and pure, simple happiness at the whirlwind of sensations that can overwhelm and take your breath away. I hope that my stories simply depict that, ignite the fires within and maybe even give some pointers on how to please your partner in some new exciting ways. Bottom line: they are here for enjoyment. So read, enjoy and live the happy healthy lives we are all meant to live. Now - a dedication: I can't say I grew up with anyone encouraging me, and that's fine, they had things in their life they were dealing with. My parents and 1st husband and current in-law said it was 'a nice little hobby'. When you get that kind of reaction from people who matter, it has the effect that you no longer tell anyone. And no one ever asked what I did for hours on end over a typewriter and then VIOLA! a computer keyboard! So no one knew. Until I met and fell in love with my 2nd husband. He found the large file cabinet filled with thick manuscripts, filed in alphabetical order by lead female name. And he talked to me about writing. My writing. The single thing in my life aside from my two grown children, that I adored and cherished. They became my community; my friends. It's an amazing thing what happens when someone believes in you. Maybe it rubs off and you begin to believe in yourself, too. So everything I've created and set free on the internet to share are thanks to him and his belief and love. He helps me with words I know but that are stuck in my head floating around somewhere; he helps me spot gaps in my stories and we bounce ideas off one another for covers for my girls. He encourages me and has also come to learn some interesting traits about himself that he'd submerged because of a bad relationship. So we've grown together and continue to explore all that we can. He has my love and my heart and my gratitude for sharing a little of his courage and belief. Email: [e-mail] Website: http://www.facebook.com

Book preview

Chapter One

The nagging thought inside her brain said she had seen the woman before.

Detective Natalie Templeton sat in her car, foot propped up and note pad on her knee. She was making a list of the places she’d been. The people she’d met in the last ten days. Places she’d been. She envisioned each place as she wrote, tapping the pen against her cheek and frowning at the last entry.

The sandwich shop by the Point.

Xavier ‘Zee’ Moore watched the blonde at the table furthest out from the shop.

She’d been there every day for the last three days and spent most of the time there with either books or a laptop open and fingers flying over the keys. She bought things through the day so he really didn’t have a reason to complain. The staff hadn’t said a thing about her other than she was polite and quiet.

Until now.

The only glimpse he had of her hair were the thick bangs she kept shoving out of her eyes and off her glasses. She wore a Greek fisherman’s cap in black over her head and never took it off.

He had an idea she was slim but she always wore the same thick Irish crème sweater that looked about three sizes too big, a pair of worn jeans and sneakers. She had a large cloth tote at her side, always tucked between her knees as she sat back and stared a lot of the time out into the stretch of Puget Sound that was laid out before them.

He looked out at the dark lenses of her glasses, watching them deepen in color as the clouds parted and brightened the end of April when the sun made an appearance. Zee slung the once clean towel over one shoulder and went toward the door, the hard clap on his shoulder jolting him.

It’s a tough job, boss, Kyle Danvers chuckled.

Yeah...then I should be delegating it to you, he grumbled.

To the victor go the spoils, Kyle tossed back. Besides, it’s not in my job description to tell a pretty blonde she needs a bath.

Zee let loose with another low growl before shoving his shoulders back and striding out of the comfortable sandwich shop. He was rubbing the back of his neck as he approached, watching her chew on the corner of a full lower lip. She pulled her sunglasses off and looked up when his shadow fell over her book, wide pale lashes and bright blue eyes blinked repeatedly, simply returning his stare.

Can I help you? She finally said when he didn’t move. Is something wrong?

I hate to lose a good customer but…there have been a few comments…less than…good comments… He searched an extensive vocabulary for the right less than offensive words to use.

Erika Vincent listened to the deep, soothing voice; a pair of hooded blue eyes and hair that was way too short for all the surfer awards decorating the inside of the shop. She sat up and sighed.

I’m sorry. I probably should have found a motel, she packed her tote, both of them bending to pick up the keys that fell from her bag. Had to give up the car for a little while…just in case…

Give it up?

People following me, she murmured, her head shaking tiredly. I know I need to wash some clothes somehow. And me… She stood up and flashed him a smile. It’s okay. You have a nice shop. A girl can only survive in washrooms for so long.

Umm…thanks…wait… he met the curiously arched brow. Upstairs. Big bathroom and washer and dryer. I won’t be up there until after five.

Silvery laughter made her glasses jump on the small nose.

That is the sweetest thing. Napping on park benches leaves a lot to be desired but I couldn’t impose…

It’s an offer. No imposition at all, he held out his palm. Zee Moore. Owner and it’s my apartment upstairs.

Erika…and you’re awfully trusting, Zee Moore, but she looked longingly toward the second story with windows opening toward the beach.

I’m pretty sure you’re a safe risk, he’d seen the laptop she used, a very high end one that she worked with ease and familiarity. He also recognized the master car key on her ring and knew there was a bit more to the mysterious Erika than he knew. You don’t look like a drug user or dealer, she only offered a crooked grin at him. And if you were going to steal things, there’s plenty of dumb people wandering the streets.

Your confidence is…interesting, she said wryly, her head shaking. It’s kind of you to offer and I really appreciate it, but it would be best if I…

There’s shampoo and stuff in the bathroom, help yourself, Zee put an arm around her shoulders and led her to the side of the building. Friends just don’t allow friends to wander around stinking and scaring the customers.

And subtle, she murmured, clearing her throat and trying again. Mr. Moore, while your offer is very kind, she repeated firmly, her feet unable to find a good grip when a man was built like a professional ball player and virtually moving her to the stairs.

I’m sure I can hide you from anyone who comes asking, Miss…

Erika, she repeated quietly, climbing the stairs to avoid falling on her face. She was so tired.

Clean towels in the cabinets, help yourself. Soap in the laundry room and the spare room is down the end of the hall, Zee continued propelling her forward, briefly wondering where his sanity had gone.

This is a really bad idea, Erika stumbled on the landing, her hand on the wide wooden railing.

For who?

Believe it or not, for you, Erika couldn’t stop the long yawn from breaking free, her body wedged against the railing.

Whatever you’re running from, I’m pretty sure I can handle it, he told her easily, shoving his key into the door and pushing it open. Please. Even people hiding from things need a friend.

Even friends can be bought, she said almost to herself.

Then consider yourself lucky, Erika, because I’m giving it away for free today only, and trust me, I can’t be bought, Zee gave her a little shove inside and saw the indecision in her eyes. I’m downstairs if you need anything.

Thank you.

Zee just nodded and closed the door. He made it to the ground level, cleaning tables and tossing trash into the bins when Kyle gestured him to the counter. He could see the wariness in the younger man’s stance and frowned.

Cop. Said she had some questions, he said softly.

Pretty sure we’re legal, Kyle, but Zee had a feeling what the lady cop was there for and went to talk to her, Erika’s words echoing in his mind and making him frown. Even friends can be bought.

Xavier Moore? Natalie Templeton showed him her badge before sliding it back into her pocket. Detective Natalie Templeton. Do you have a few minutes for some questions?

Detective, he gestured to an empty table. Zee, please and I’m the owner. Privileges. Can I offer you a cold drink? On the house.

I’d love an icy root beer, she said, waiting while he called Kyle over and made the request. Thank you, she pulled a large photo from the folder she carried. Have you seen this woman?

Zee looked at the photo and kept his features perfectly stoic, his shoulders up and down in a slow, practiced move.

We get plenty of customers that could fit that look, he kept staring at the too flouncy wedding gown, long golden hair and very sad blue eyes. Who is she?

Erika Vincent.

Doesn’t look the criminal type…never seen a mug shot in a wedding dress before, he said casually, studying the photo. There was an almost sad, confused look in the blue eyes.

She’s not a criminal, Mr. Moore. According to her parents, she’s missing, Natalie had seen the recognition in his eyes.

Parents…not husband?

She almost laughed at the attempt to be casual, his eyes not leaving the photo. She had to admit to seeing that look in her new husband’s eyes often over the last week.

She isn’t married. She vanished two days before the ceremony, Natalie slid the photo back into the folder.

Vanished or got cold feet? Maybe she had a boyfriend and changed her mind, Zee rationalized thoughtfully.

I was here getting sandwiches the other day and I was positive I saw her sitting at one of your outside tables, Natalie put the straw in her mouth and drank the cold soda.

I’m pretty sure I didn’t know anyone like this but I remember seeing you a few days back, Zee met the violet eyes with a shrug.

I think I need to find out what Miss Vincent is running away from, Natalie stood up and extended her palm. Thanks for your help.

If I see her, what should I tell her? Zee walked with her toward the small parking lot to the left of the shop.

If she’s afraid and needs help, Natalie handed him her card. Have her call me, and only me. Until I find out the why, and I’m pretty sure I’m missing a big piece of the puzzle, I’m going on the assumption that she chose to leave. And since she’s well over eighteen, I can’t very well force her to go somewhere she doesn’t want to be. Even if I had an idea where she might be. Have a great day, Natalie waved and pulled keys from her pocket, humming to herself as she went to her car.

Zee went back to the counter, sending Kyle to making the subs and pulling drinks for the lunch crowd filtering in on a bright and sunny spring Friday.

He was itching to go up and make sure she hadn’t run when he came back to the shop, but continued working until five. He closed out the register and prepared the deposit, sliding it into the safe in his office and making sure the alarms and doors were locked. He checked his watch on the way upstairs. He had half an hour to get ready.

Zee stared down at the woman stretched out on his bed.

The photo had been physically accurate, to an extent.

She’d lost a few pounds. Now that the cap wasn’t on her head, the long gold hair easily curled to the middle of her back.

What are you running from, Erika Vincent?

He was on his heels when the pale lashes fluttered and opened lazily.

Hi, Erika frowned, finding a place in her memory for the rugged face now staring at her. You have pretty eyes.

I was thinking the same thing of you.

Oh…I must have been really tired.

I pulled your laundry from the dryer. Interested in going to a party with me tonight? I could use a date, Zee listened to his own words and winced.

Somehow you being dateless seems a little improbable, Zee, she frowned and pushed herself up, too aware of the thick quilt she’d wrapped herself in. She kept it gathered close and raked a set of slim fingers through her hair. What is your real name? That seems like a handle someone gave you when you surfed.

Erika watched the corner of his mouth lift, a cute sun drenched smile that fit the tanned, rugged features.

Xavier Moore, he said after a long minute, his head tipping forward slightly. I saw the little black dress in your collection. And I’d bet you have shoes in that giant bag you carry around.

A few basic necessities every girl should have, she admitted carefully. What kind of party?

Congratulations for a good friend. He finished his physician training, he liked the pretty smile, the full lips tipped a little. So will you come with me? I know Cecily, his mother and she’ll have great food and knowing Tre, some decent music.

I’m not in the guest room, am I?

My room. But it’s okay. I put your clothes in the other room and I’ll turn around while you…wrap up and head down the hall. Zee stood up and stepped back. I can go in the other room if it would help.

I saw your wall. You were in the military. You’re much thinner without all the gear, she said quietly, sliding to the edge and standing up, gathering the quilt around her to keep from tripping. I think I might like a party, thank you. Won’t take me a few minutes, I promise, Erika managed to get behind the bedroom door before letting the quilt fall, collecting it carefully and laying it on the bed.

He’d laid out her clothes in nice, neat piles. All folded and stacked.

She’d stuffed her huge carpet bag as full as she could before she disappeared.

And now all of it was laid out on the double bed in an apartment of a man she just met. Erika found what she wanted, dressing quickly and adjusting the sleeveless, square neckline of the little black dress and zipping the back with a quick turn in the mirror.

Not as snug as it used to be, she thought, finding the few pieces of make-up from inside her pack and applying a light pink lipstick, some highlight around her eyes and some concealer for the circles beneath them. She sighed and nodded before slipping the four inch heels on and buckling the very slender straps around her ankles.

Chapter Two

Xavier Moore felt the brick wall slam into his psyche the instant she stepped from the room at the end of the hall. This was what she had been hiding beneath the loose jeans and way too big sweater.

She was about five-ten, long legged and slender. The black dress stopped just above her knees and the strappy heels were open toed and showed off sparkling pink toes. She looked up and offered a slightly tentative but pleased smile before striding forward and stopping in front of him.

This is much different for you than the T-shirt and jeans, she told him brightly, fingers up and straightening the silver-blue tie he’d knotted over the pale blue silk shirt. He definitely filled out the dark blue jacket and slacks. All the way to the very shiny shoes.

Zee stared down into the wide blue eyes. She had a rounded chin, small nose, sweetly contoured cheeks and a high forehead. The bangs he’d seen were brushed to the side and the long hair twisted and pinned in a thick soft braid against the back of her head. And he felt like he was suddenly on his way to the homecoming dance.

With the girl every guy wanted on his arm.

And he’d convinced her to go with him.

Zee? You’re staring, Erika bit her lip and stepped back. She looked down and back up, frowning. Did I forget something? She used one finger and pulled her bodice out. Nope…everything bottled up.

Sorry, Erika, don’t mind me, Zee inhaled and stepped to the side. After you. I think I was caught in some kind of time lock there for a minute and the fact that you’re incredibly beautiful made my brain shut down. What are you doing hiding under those clothes way too big for you and a hat that made you look like you belonged on a fishing boat on the coast of Greece?

Erika listened and held onto the rail as she went to the street and waited.

Are you always like this? She moved forward when his palm came around her and settled on her hip, guiding her past the parking lot to the garage behind the building. Thank you for the compliment.

Like what? Curious? You’re very welcome and every word of it was sincerely true.

Nosy? Throwing yourself into the middle of something that…

We’re friends. Friends are curious.

Friends? Erika dragged her tongue around her lips. Friends protect one another, even when they don’t realize they need it.

A mystery woman, he clicked the keys in his hand and went to open the door for her, the low sports car chirping at his command. I’ve never had someone try and protect me before.

A sandwich shop owner with a Jaguar, Erika raised one pale brow and slid into the very comfortable contoured seat. And if you’re this outgoing with everyone you meet, you need someone to protect you.

Guess we both have past lives that made us what we are today, he said simply, backing the car out and closing the garage. He glanced over as he drove, guiding the car along the coastal rode to the resort. Believe it or not, I’ve never offered the use of my apartment to anyone before. Something just made me think you needed a safe place to be for a while.

Thank you. I honestly do appreciate it. I had no idea I was so tired.

Maybe I could help, Erika.

I’m thirty-one years old. Independent and self-sufficient, she intoned cheerfully.

Zee listened to the words that sounded like she repeated them regularly to herself.

Tell me about Erika Vincent, Zee suggested calmly, the hand he placed on her wrist easily catching the sharp jump in her pulse.

She minds her own business and doesn’t endanger her friends, Erika slid her hand carefully from his and lifted his wrist with two fingers, carrying it to his thigh and dropping it there. I blame the moon. I’m not generally careless and going to a party is definitely not one of my brighter moves right now. But I so need to relax.

You’re not growing furry, so I’m assuming it’s not a lycan thing, Zee grinned at her, pulling up to the valet and turning the car off. She was out and around the front in time to offer his arm. Shall we, Miss Vincent? I think the evening promises to be filled with unforgettable adventures. And everyone needs a little down time now and then.

Why is a special forces security expert running a delicious sandwich shop? Erika asked as they entered the large, open area of the foyer to the WindSwept Narrows Resort and Casino.

It’s calming and creative and I’ve always enjoyed cooking, he told her without missing a beat. Are you going to make me investigate Erika Vincent to find the story behind the lady?

I seriously doubt anyone could make you do anything, Xavier, she returned sweetly, facing the front of the elevator when they entered and not looking back over her shoulder. Who told you my name?

The cop investigating your disappearance. He heard the slightest hitch in her breathing. Very cool and collected, he murmured softly, his palms settling at her waist and his mouth moving next to her ear. And you aren’t running. Why did I believe you would run?

It’s what I do. It’s cleaner, easier, she answered, swallowing hard and refusing to move or react. They should never have involved the police, she said with a hint of anger.

I think uncovering your secrets would take a lifetime. But I never would have thought you were a coward, Zee inhaled the fresh, simple scents of shampoo and soap and Erika Vincent. What’s scared you enough to run?

You should consider a career change. I don’t think you’re being stimulated enough owning a sandwich shop, Erika strode forward the instant the elevator opened, her head up and feet crossing as she walked that sexy model walk down the hallway. Only a little stumble when she heard the low wolf whistle behind her.

Zee! I was hoping you’d make it, Tre Thorne stepped forward, Natalie at his side wearing a simple cocktail dress in silver and lavender. Natalie, an old friend of mine, Zee Moore. I don’t know your date, he offered his palm. Tre Thorne.

Mr. Moore, what a surprise, Natalie pursed her lips and looked at the blonde beside him. Natalie Templeton, she offered her palm, listening to the man whispering in her ear. Natalie Thorne.

Erika…nice to meet you, she said, applying a smile.

Help yourselves. Plenty of food, Tre walked with them into the large ballroom, two banners adorning the room, one of each end of the room.

Looks like all kinds of congratulations are in order, Zee read the banners and looked at Natalie, trying to determine her thoughts. And how much he should apologize for. I think we’ll track down some food, Tre…Natalie.

We have a quiet table over in the corner, Tre gestured toward the far side. Join us, please.

I’d like that, Erika said quietly, meeting the expression on Natalie’s face with a nod.

Do you know the detective? Zee asked when they were walking along the buffet, his plate filling and hers, less so. Not hungry?

No…I’ve never met her before. I think I should go, Erika hated the quiver in her voice. She wasn’t too fond of the idea of leaving, either. She didn’t quite understand why, but she enjoyed the sharp banter with Xavier Moore. His precise, handsome features, short clipped hair and teasing voice made her forget for a while.

Whatever it is, Erika, let me help, he began putting food on the plate she held as they walked, even as she looked around her. He could see the quick little pulsing at the side of her throat.

You can’t help, Xavier, he’ll crush you, she whispered hoarsely.

Who? He kept his body close to hers, guiding her along the line and toward the far corner where Tre and Natalie sat waiting. I’ll snag us some wine and be right back.

Erika hesitated, her gaze sweeping around the room nervously.

I might be able to help if you let me try, Erika, Natalie tucked a long strand of dark hair behind one ear, her fingers tight in Tre’s hand on the table.

She shook her head and sat down, wanting to chalk the discomfort up to general nerves. She’d been gone four days. She left a note apologizing to Adam; telling him simply that she didn’t love him and wouldn’t go through with the wedding.

She didn’t offer an excuse. Didn’t bother telling him that she had seen him with someone else. She had thought all this time he was being a gentleman. Polite, even chaste kisses from the good looking high level vice-president in one of her father’s companies. It was like kissing a stone.

She’d felt more sexual, more electricity the last hour with Xavier than she had in four months with Adam Wayne. But it wouldn’t have been possible to continue rising in the company if they knew the truth, so he pretended interest in her. Were his reasons that simple? Or had she been that distracted. She sighed. She’d seriously been distracted and had no one to blame but herself.

And six days before the wedding, she saw and heard the huge fight between Adam Wayne and Ross Richardson. Then she saw them making up.

On the grounds of her father’s house out on the island. She felt the oxygen leaving her; felt the color draining from her face and almost went to her knees. He wasn’t interested in her. He was marrying her to stop the rumors about his sexuality and to aid his boyfriend’s political career.

What could possibly have been worse than that?

Her parents knew and approved because he had an excellent pedigree.

Erika? Zee had come up at the instant that last thought struck her, the cold glass of wine in his hand held to her lips. Drink this…what the hell…

She shook her head, her hand taking the glass and setting it down. She wiped the damp fingers over her cheek.

I’m alright, she said with a jagged breath. I…just lost in thought.

Didn’t look like a happy thought, Tre commented, concern at the pale features. Natalie had filled him in while they were getting food. We got chocolate cake, he said, looking for a distraction.

I’m not sure facts can count as happy thoughts. They’re just…thoughts, Erika picked at the food on the plate, her stomach churning.

Maybe if you shared, we could brainstorm a solution for you, Zee bit into the stuffed mushroom.

When the sharp light struck their table, Erika realized she hadn’t run far enough from Seattle. She felt Zee’s hand settle on her shoulder when she jumped, the familiar voice of a reporter seeping through the sudden onset of fog.

Dr. Thorne…Stacy Brock with the Times, she was smiling down at them, her breath catching when her gaze landed on Erika. Miss Vincent…Erika Vincent.

I think you’ve made a mistake, Erika tried to push to the side, heart thumping and ready to make an escape.

No, no, I haven’t. We’ve been running your photo for three days. Your parents reported you missing and they feared that perhaps you’d…

I am not missing. I am not… she closed her eyes and swallowed the shudder.

Have you been in touch with your family? Your fiancé? The reporter pushed quickly, as if sensing her prey was faltering beneath her assault.

Please go away, Erika whispered.

Your wedding is scheduled for tomorrow…

I sincerely doubt she’ll be there since we were married two days ago, Xavier Moore said coolly, looking up at the reporter with a feral grin. I’d be a little put out if my wife changed her mind now.

A reporter shouldn’t be at a loss for words but she stared for a long minute.

It was a nice ceremony, Tre said casually. One of those simple things at a judge’s chambers. A double ceremony, he told the woman with a grin, carrying Natalie’s palm to his lips.

You’ve married, Dr. Thorne? It’s been quite a week, the reporter finally managed, regrouping and half listening to a commentary in her earpiece.

Natalie and I were the other couple, Ms. Brock. Who said Erika was missing?

She looked pointedly at Natalie. She was reported as a missing person in Seattle and then in Tacoma when she was sighted in the area. Obviously there’s been a misunderstanding.

Perhaps you don’t have the complete story, Ms. Brock, Natalie said casually, smiling brightly and freezing in place. The night just keeps getting better and better.

I seem to be missing a lot of facts on this story, Stacy admitted with a smile, stepping to the side and allowing the older couple through. She knew her social calendar quite well and recognized them immediately. Better and better, she repeated. Mr. and Mrs. Templeton… Then the names registered. Your parents.

Natalie smiled brightly, unconsciously moving next to Tre. But only for a moment.

If you’ll excuse us, Erika needs some cold water and a little air, Natalie was up and taking Erika’s palm, the other woman coming from the seat quickly and following at her side.

Is there an escape hatch here? Erika asked hoarsely.

I think running isn’t working, Erika, Natalie reached the large, gleaming restroom and caught their reflections in the wall length mirrors. For either of us. I have a feeling your parents have mucked up your life as much as mine have. As much as I’ve allowed mine to, she corrected firmly.

Erika turned the cold water on, her wrists beneath the stream and her eyes closed, her forehead resting on the cold granite counter.

No, running was working until I let myself think they’d accepted my decision, she straightened slowly, striding to the wall and tapping the warm air to dry her hands.

Why are you on my missing person’s list, Erika? Natalie leaned against the counter, hoping Tre was alright.

I left a note, she looked at the other woman. I told Adam I was calling off the wedding. I gave him back his ring. And I left. I am not missing and it was wrong of them to…to use police resources like that. The only thing I can think of is they wanted some kind of…of story to avoid being humiliated.

Alright. I can accept that. But… she sighed. She avoided her parents like the plague. She knew she wasn’t the only one with dysfunctional parents. I think I need to rescue Tre. He doesn’t deserve my parents, Natalie looped her arm with Erika’s. I don’t know why you had to run, but I do know you’ve got a guy willing to stand up to the demons with you, if you give him a chance. It took me a bit of time to accept that same thing, so I do understand.

Xavier? I only met the man this morning, Erika told her in a hoarse whisper. I had to ditch my car because my father was having me followed and…oh, god, what a mess.

Natalie laughed. I learned that time isn’t what matters. Not at all, she said positively, smiling brightly at Tre when he stood up and held out his palm.

Chapter Three

Erika tried to ignore the newly added camera. And the reporter. Watching.

Natalie’s words echoed in her head at the same time she felt warm and protected, a palm out and twining with hers until he had her close enough to circle. The band of his arms circled her when he positioned her in front of him, his mouth moving next to her ear.

Smile and never let them see your fears, Erika.

It wasn’t so difficult to do as he said, half listening to the older couple.

You cannot be serious, Natalie, Geofrey Templeton demanded, his voice laced with disbelief. You only just divorced!

That was over two years ago, Father, Natalie leaned into Tre. In case you forgot, this is my life, my choice. Wish me luck and please don’t cause a scene. Excuse us…Tre promised me a dance or three.

With Tre taking the lead, she exhaled and continued on to the dance floor without looking back. Her life was now and with Tre. She loved him and knew it wouldn’t be ending anytime in the distant future.

Erika watched them move into the room where the music was playing, people laughing and dancing.

Happy. For a brief time, she forgot where she was.

How about we join them on the dance floor? Zee whispered in her ear, ignoring the sputtering older couple and the reporter asking questions. Leave before I have you thrown out for harassing my wife, he told the woman sharply.

You don’t realize what you’ve done, Erika said when they were on the dance floor, his hands settled on her waist and guiding her to the slow music.

Complicated your life? He didn’t try hiding the amusement in his voice but he did try and look somber when her eyes widened and she stared at him.

You just announced to a reporter that we were married.

You didn’t protest. And it actually seemed to shock the reporter, Zee recalled with a chuckle.

Erika shook her head, even as the urge to rest it against his shoulder took over.

I should have. I usually handle bulls in china shops much better than I have been lately.

What do you think will happen to me, Erika? His hands moved a little closer together, willingly taking up the space she was granting until her head rested on his shoulder as they danced. Why was the reporter so shocked?

You are just full of questions, Xavier Moore. And you know what curiosity did to the cat, she warned with a sigh.

How about an easy one, then? What do you do for a living, Erika Vincent? He let his eyes cruise over the soft curve of her cheek when she lifted her head and met his eyes. Hey, a guy’s gotta know a little something about his mysterious wife.

I’m a pharmacist, she answered finally. I received the letter of intent from the resort personnel department the same day I… she stopped, her head shaking and her face turning back to rest against his shoulder.

Same day as what? That you called off the wedding, he felt her body stiffen at his guess. It’s difficult for you to trust me. That part he could understand. He’d spent six years in the military and forming that kind of trust wasn’t easy when your life depended on it.

When you trust people, you open yourself up to either you being hurt, or they get hurt, she said without looking up. She could indulge. Just for one night. Relax and feel safe. Feel like a woman again.

What if you meet someone willing to take that chance of being hurt? And promises not to sell you out? He barely managed to get his chin out of the way before it was clipped by her head shooting up, eyes wide and staring at him. I’m good at puzzles, he said with a wink. Someone you trusted sold you out in some way. Maybe you trusted the wrong people, Erika.

I told you, trust people and they could be hurt, her head shook slightly. That’s not my idea of…of friendship to put someone in a position where… Erika shook her head. It’s all too convoluted, Xavier. Please, believe me. Four months ago I would never have thought…

Zee felt her stiffen when the noise began behind them.

Sir, I’m sorry, this is a closed party.

My fiancé is here and I want inside now, came the hard, cold exclamation.

Fucking reporter, Zee growled, his hands tightened on Erika. He looked over to see Stacy Brock waiting eagerly with her camera guy to catch the drama.

It’s her job, Erika sighed. Adam can be quite forceful when it comes to what he wants.

Is that why you broke it off? Did he hurt you?

Physically? No…no…in fact, he never even touched me. And the only kiss I ever got was usually on my forehead, she told him, watching the stark disbelief on his face. I have no sex appeal, Xavier, she whispered with a wrinkled nose. He’s quite successful and quite handsome. But sexually…I don’t appeal to him. She said very slowly, watching; hoping those sharp blue eyes would understand what she was saying.

And the betrayal?

My parents knew and never told me, she answered, sighing and realizing how much she’d needed to talk to someone, anyone, about what was trapped inside her.

Zee stared down at the pale pink lips.

So if it makes me a coward to run until I could get my head straight, it’s what I am, she shrugged one shoulder.

No is still no, Erika.

You haven’t met my parents or Adam. If this got out…let’s say they’ll do whatever they have to for it not to happen, she didn’t have time to do more than move closer when Adam stormed up to them, his hand on Zee’s shoulder. For one whole second.

Pale lashes went wide when Zee’s elbow shot back, catching Adam in the ribs, hard.

Erika!

Zee! She hissed, working to keep from laughing at the bent over figure, his suit coat open and hands rubbing his ribs as he straightened up.

I don’t like being snuck up on, he answered with a casual shrug, turning to face the man but never taking one arm off Erika. They watched the man who had been maintaining the door standing beside Adam Wayne.

This is a private party, Adam. You shouldn’t be here, Erika didn’t want to admit it, not out loud, but there was a safe feeling being held close to Zee, his palm warm on the rise of her hip. And it kept her from falling to the floor because her knees were quaking.

"Where have you been? We’ve been