One Night With Zorro

By Karen Hudgins

A Masked Lover--

Nick O'Brien, masquerading as Zorro, had once charmed a pretty coed out of her innocence. Today, the lady doesn't know he was her masked lover, until...

An American Dreamer--

Julia Preston, lace proprietor, likes all things traditional. So Nick's checkered past hardly fits. Except she'd fallen in love one night--with ZORRO!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Wings ePress, Inc.
• Release date: Feb 23, 2013
• ISBN: 9781590880104

Book preview

Prologue

Zorro was gone! Julia rolled over in her rumpled bed, remnants of her fair maiden’s costume strewn about the room. She sat up, stretched, then frowned. The rising sun brought the truth tinged with mixed feelings.

His scent, male and cologned, clung to her and she padded to the bathroom. A shower later, she dressed, sipped Earl Grey tea, and returned to the bedroom. Lifting the covers from the bed, she half wished she’d only dreamed about last night.

Except her hot, hazy memories proved she hadn’t. She figured they must have exceeded the best a woman could own when it came to lovemaking. Yet her exploring and blissful night also levied a high price. Her innocence was gone… forever.

But how could she resist him? He’d touched her so tenderly and made every inch of her feel cherished. His confidence and sense of humor wrapped her up in perfect ambiance for their being together.

I’ll walk you home, he had said after the masquerade party. His unshakable interest in her and the timbre of his voice quaked her senses. When she tucked her hand into his, an instant bond lit in her heart—and showed up sparkling in his blue eyes.

Now, this morning, she was left to whisper, Who was he?

For him to remain masked added to their crazy merriment and passion. But while she’d slept, he left her side like a swashbuckling phantom. Julia winced. Part of his fun, perhaps, but not hers. She’d been made a fool? She yanked away a pillow and her breath caught in her throat. Against the field of white lay curled a soft, midnight black cloth. Wary, Julia lifted this forgotten evidence of their tryst. Over her palm draped the mask of Zorro.

One

Three years later.

Come on, Sam, give it to us, Julia Preston fretted and drew a circle around the date of her request to the owner of the Mayrose Building. The timing’s perfect.

All she needed to launch her plan for boosting sales for Chesley’s Lace & Linens was ninety square feet from the vacant retail space next door. She’d submitted the proposal a month ago, but nothing came back. Something was going on.

She tossed the red pen aside as Aunt Perrie peeked into their cubbyhole of an office.

Are you ready? she asked, gray eyes twinkling. I’ve pulled it down from the shelf.

Julia smiled wryly and pushed herself up from the chair. Okay, okay. But putting the veil on won’t bring me a groom, she joked and winked.

Perrie wagged a forefinger. No, but it helps shake out the wrinkles. And I like seeing you in it, even if it’s only for a few minutes, twice a year.

Julia admitted she also did. Having the antique English lace stir against her cheeks put her in touch with her dreams. Traditional ones, like loving a husband, being a mother, having a nice home. For now, though, she carried this American dream deep in her heart.

Let’s do it, she said.

Goodie. I’ll lock the front door.

While Perrie made haste to the front of the shop, Julia walked into the stockroom. The long white box sat on top of plastic-wrapped bolts of fine laces from around the world.

She freed the lid and peeled away white tissue that protected the rare Honiton lace. Touching the veil again, she felt her business concerns fade and her romantic dreams rise.

Soft woven roses cupped her fingertips. She traced forget-me-nots and ivy that spilled from cornucopias along the scalloped edge of this priceless family heirloom.

Her heart fluttered as she lifted the legacy high above her head. Someday, she’d wear this cloud of illusion. For the reason her great-great grandmother Elizabeth had intended when she’d left it for future generations of Foxbury women.

Julia slipped off her shoes and stepped onto a sheet spread upon the plank floor. Perrie, earrings bobbing and bracelets jangling, bustled to her side to help.

Splendiflora, Julia said reverently. I love this pattern. None other equals its workmanship or design.

Perrie nodded. Elizabeth had excellent taste and the money to go with. Your mother looked beautiful in this lace when she married your father.

I’m sure she was.

Hearing about her mother triggered a bittersweet sadness in Julia. Her parents had unexpectedly died when she was very young. From all accounts, they’d enjoyed a happy marriage. Still, she wished she could’ve known them better, first-hand.

Perrie bubbled. Your turn’s coming at the altar. I just know it.

Julia sighed. Managing Chesley’s allowed little time for chasing men-colored rainbows. Besides, how could she expect Cupid to aim an arrow at such an ever-moving target as she?

Even so, Perrie chimed merrily along, You’re pretty, twenty-five, and well-educated. Principled, almost to a fault, but you’ve an eye for lace. She tapped Julia on her nose. Without that we’d go under. Now, bend your knees. There, that’s perfect.

Julia gazed at her reflection as Perrie placed the silk rose and pearl tiara on her head. More than a hundred years separated her from her great-great grandmother. Yet, the lace framing her face felt fresh and new and prompted the fleeting question, What will my wedding be like?

Lovely, you’re very lovely, Perrie said, sliding her white cotton-gloved hand in long motions to straighten the folds of illusion. If only Elizabeth could’ve saved the saber. Then the legacy would be complete.

Julia glanced at the old photograph taken of her maternal great-great grandparents on their wedding day in May, 1898. Elizabeth’s bearded groom, Hudson, stood at her side with his hand on the top of a gleaming Wilkinson masterpiece.

Perrie humphed. The man who stole it deserved to be tarred, even if he once was a friend of the family.

Tsk, some friend, Julia said, thinking how she’d found this part of her family history intriguing. According to Elizabeth’s diary, she’d commissioned a saber to be crafted in London for Hudson as a wedding gift. The same Splendiflora pattern used for her veil was engraved on the top of the blade. In essence, a marriage of lace and steel.

After Elizabeth had moved to New York to settle with her American husband, Hudson took up Teddy Roosevelt’s personal invitation to join the Rough Riders. Tragically, Hudson died during the Battle of San Juan Hill. When his body and personal effects arrived home, the saber wasn’t part of the lot. Roger Simps, a friend of Hudson’s who served in the same regiment, called on Elizabeth—in surprising courting fashion. He had the saber, but when she couldn’t accept his marriage proposal, he’d stormed out and took the weapon with him. Neither were seen again.

It’s only right, Julia murmured, that the saber be here, reunited with the veil.

Perrie patted her arm. We’ll keep trying. Your mother thought she’d seen it once, but couldn’t track it down. We simply mustn’t give up.

Julia thought aloud, At least, for now, I have the veil.

Perrie said with admiration, More than that, you’ve the Foxbury cheekbones and hairline. Better gifts to inherit, if I might say so.

A sharp knock on the front door interrupted them.

Oh, blessed day, Perrie muttered. I must’ve forgotten to turn the sign. Now we have a customer.

Julia turned quickly and Perrie put up her palm.

No, don’t you move, I’ll go. It’s probably Mimi Clarke. She still needs Brussels trim for the baby cap she’s making.

Julia turned to the mirror and arranged the veil closer to her short cotton skirt. For a prettier effect, she pushed down the scoop neckline of her pink sweater and exposed her bare shoulders. Next, she moved the antique diamond and pearl ring from her right hand to her ring finger.

Relaxing, she drifted into a fantasy about her wedding. A lovely candlelit and joyful affair at St. Kathryn’s. She and the groom stood before the flower-bedecked altar. You may now kiss the bride. Her heart nearly burst with pretend joy.

Leaning forward, Julia closed her eyes. As if in a rapturous hug, she raised her arms and puckered her lips. This eager kiss was for the groom. The man of her life. With whom she’d have children. To whom, she’d give all.

His warmth reached her and the faint scent of musk drew her further in. So much so, she heard his footsteps. His deep resonating voice said her name. Julia?

Moving. Respectful. And…very real.

She popped her eyes open and stared ahead. Aside from her, the mirror reflected a good-looking man who leaned against the archway behind her. Embarrassment scorched her cheeks.

Ack! Omigosh, she choked.

Excuse me, I didn’t mean to startle you. I’m Nick O’Brien. Mimi Clarke’s brother.

Julia twisted half way around, pulling the delicate lace with her. Nick stood about six feet tall. Dust smudged his cheek and a scar dented his left eyebrow. Well-cut grey slacks draped his legs and a white shirt with rolled up sleeves contrasted with his tanned skin and dark hair. A Jerry Garcia tie hung loosely around his neck.

Yes, yes. I know who you are. Julia’s memory jogged into the past. The infamous Nick O’Brien was Mimi’s brother and paying her a visit? Her muscles tightened. Where’s my aunt? she asked more politely, remembering that he was also a customer.

Humor flickered in Nick’s eyes. She’s having trouble and asked me to come get you. Her necklace is stuck in the register drawer.

Julia blinked. Good grief, all those beads she wears.

His gaze held hers way too long for comfort. Looks like you’re getting married.

Soon, yes, soon. Not without a groom she wasn’t, but the less he knew of her private life, the better. Nick’s reputation far exceeded his ability to play golf at John Adams University.

She lifted the veil from her head and tucked it into its acid-free tissue bed.

Soon? He repeated and unfolded his arms. Then I wish you every happiness with—

Ahh, let’s go, okay?

Arching an eyebrow, he moved slowly and caused her to nearly touch him. For a scant second, she was taken aback. Aside from a broader chest, time had added something to him. Her breath caught and the warmth grew hotter in her cheeks.

She brushed past him and took the shortest route to the front of the store. She felt him watching her as he followed.

How’s Mimi? she asked, sticking to small talk.

Crabby. This heat’s getting to her.

No wonder. It’s May, but it feels like July. She’s due soon, right?

Late next month.

Julia gained relieved sight of Perrie behind the front counter. Auntie, are you all right?

Yes, I’ve wriggled it free now. She’d already wrapped up the lace for Nick. Thank you, and will you tell your sister we can’t wait to see her new little one?

Nick slipped the package into his shirt pocket. Will do. Mimi can’t wait herself, a fact which she reminds us of often.

Perrie bubbled, Julia and I love babies, don’t you?

Julia cringed. If she didn’t change the subject fast, her dear aunt would move on to her next favorite topic—marriage.

I’m sure he does, she interjected. But Mr. O’Brien probably has to leave. She stared at him. Correct?

The corner of his mouth lifted. Yes, but I’ll be seeing you again. I’m with Rusher and Cole, Architects. Our firm is doing the renovation of this building. He paused, then, You might have heard about the project?

Julia lifted her fingers to her throat. Just thinking about the project provoked her royally. She had enough to deal with.

He added, As a matter of fact, I have plans to go over with both of you on Thursday. That is, if you’re available?

Yes, Julia’s available, Perrie told him. But you might want to know that my niece nearly runs Chesley’s now. She has quite a level head on her shoulders.

Nick’s gaze slid downward to Julia’s still bare shoulders.

I’d say that’s a fair call. He then raised his eyes to hers. A knowing glint sparkled in them. One that had no right zinging into her heart, or giving her butterflies.

He pursed his lips.

The air suddenly seemed to snap around her. Not for your benefit, I can assure you, Julia defended and pulled up the neckline of her sweater.

Frowning, Perrie asked, Say, do you know each other?

Nick averted his eyes.

No, Julia said emphatically. Except the little voice in back of her mind spoke: Oh, yes, you do.

Well, now, Perrie said, further scrutinizing the two of them. I suppose we should be closing and getting on home.

Will two o’clock on Thursday work for you? Nick’s tone turned businesslike, but Julia’s heart wouldn’t be still.

I’ll be here, she warbled. Guarding the roost.

Good, he said thoughtfully. You do that well.

Whatever do you mean?

Nick shuffled his feet. You’re running a good business here, which takes guarding sometimes. For now, I can tell you that construction will begin in three weeks. There’ll be inconveniences, of course. Another shuffle.

Julia pressed her hips against the edge of the counter. The man was selling her a bill of goods as long as the Mississippi River.

Inconveniences? As in dust?

Nick’s mouth looked like it begged to let loose in a grin. Apparently, he found their meeting terribly amusing, or maybe ironic. Yes, but we have ways to reduce dust.

The same as you plan to reduce customer parking?

This whole scene was bugging her. Envisioning all of Chesley’s stock shrouded in clear plastic gave her a case of wake-me-when-it’s-over. But no parking meant no buyers. That pinned her business sense to the wall. Her mind went to work.

Mr. O’Brien—

He cut her off with a firm blue-eyed gaze, held long enough to make her squirm. Yet, she forged on. Let me explain some things to you.

Go ahead. I’d rather do a job right the first time. He eyed her curiously. But, if not, doing it over shows good intentions. You know, as in ‘stand behind your work?’

Julia pressed her hands on top of the glass counter and leaned forward. Yes, our reputation was built on that.

So’s mine.

Now it was her turn to smirk. She had him, and he knew it.

With Rusher and Cole, he countered.

She regarded him for a moment. Yes, whatever it was, there was something different now about the one guy in the whole university who’d allegedly punched out a professor, but still graduated. Now he led the renovation project where her business was located?

I’m not sure what you’ve put together on paper, but our shop has been here since 1960. My grandmother started Chesley’s by taking special orders for people when she’d go to England to see relatives. Business grew and is about to again under my direction. My point is that, aside from needing more space, why change a good thing?

Nick nodded. Good is in eye of the beholder.

Beauty, she corrected. It’s beauty.

Same difference, sometimes. A muscle twitched at his temple. We’re aware that the shops here have early roots, and most merchants like Picardy Heights. Who could blame them? This part of Missouri is a great place to live and work.

He pulled a business card from his pocket and slid it under her finger. But Sam needs to bring this building up to code. Please be assured that Alderman Kinch is interested in keeping this historical district a vital part of the metro area.

Amen, quipped Perrie, neatening her beads.

As a matter of fact, the Alderman’s going to be one of your Mayrose neighbors. He’s moving—

Really, now? Won’t that be nice? Perrie said.

Julia shot her aunt an uneasy glance. Maybe, maybe not, she said. Rather, we know Bart Kinch. He attends the Merchant Association meetings. But what do you mean when you say our neighbor? Just how close?

Bart wants— Nick’s beeper sounded. He unclipped it from his belt and checked the display.

Mimi’s calling. Look, I’ve got to run. We’ll go into this on Thursday. He turned back from the door and his face tightened. And, Julia, you will make the lucky guy a beautiful bride. Congratulations to both of you.

Julia frowned at the closing door. As the cash register noisily churned out paper tape documenting the day’s transactions, Perrie peered over at her. Her eyes hopeful, she asked, What lucky guy, dear?

~ * ~

Hours later, Julia pounded the treadmill she’d set up in the second bedroom of her modest town house. Walking helped rejuvenate her body and relieve some of her stress. So when her best friend Carol Sue had called, Julia met her at Reggie’s a half hour later.

For a Tuesday, the pub was packed. She Loves Me by the Beatles had some customers singing along.

Jules, is something wrong? Carol Sue asked.

She sighed. Just thinking.

Well, stop. We leave the world outside and have fun. No thinking caps allowed.

Julia leaned back. It’s just that so much is going on right now. What about you? Come up with any new things today?

Carol Sue shrugged. My wedding cake design is in the window. But this is all the same old stuff, right?

Julia sipped white wine. It began to do its calming, magic dance on nerves that the treadmill didn’t touch. No. Someone came into the shop.

Carol Sue’s eyes lit up. "You mean, as in someone?"

Uh huh, Julia confirmed. But he’s trouble.

Carol Sue grinned mischievously.

He thinks I’m getting married.

Her friend’s smile vanished. Where’d he get that idea?

Julia explained how she’d met up with the former classmate. He looks great, but he gets under my skin. He was a golf jock. I saw him around campus and at a few tournaments.

Carol Sue lifted the cherry from her Midnight Marauder and dropped it into her mouth. You’re going to see him again?

"Not a good idea. Not by choice."

All right, she cheered, elbowing Julia’s arm. "Why not ask him here? For a drink, with us? Josh, you, and me. Just as a formality, of course. Until you feel, and he feels, like you want to do it—or—something more conventional, like have dinner. Then yadda, yadda, yadda, and who knows? Maybe he’ll be Mr. Right."

Julia cringed. You know I don’t ask men out. Especially a guy with a reputation. Truth be known, she didn’t even kiss on the first date. A principle she held to pretty well. Except for that fateful night three years ago during her senior year. Regretting the intrusive hot memory of it, she sipped her chilled wine.

Her friend exhaled, puffing her copper-colored bangs. I’m tellin’ you, Jules. You need to widen your horizons. Take some risks.

Julia knew Carol Sue meant well, but she wasn’t in the mood for a lecture. I think I’ll go home now. Will you tell Josh and his friend I’ll catch them later?

Carol Sue put out her hand to stop her. No, stay, please. You’ve helped me often enough. Don’t you see? Now it’s my turn. She shifted in her chair and lowered her voice. Look, if this guy asks you out? Maybe you should go. People do change.

Julia set down the wine glass. Maybe. In seven months, after Christmas. We’re ready to launch on-line, join a cyber mall, the works. And I love what I do. It’s all I need.

Carol Sue just nodded.

Julia knew the look and slung her purse strap over her shoulder. I’ll come by tomorrow for those petit fours. We’re having a demonstration by the women from the Lacemaker’s Guild and need goodies.

She turned away as a few more patrons streamed into Reggie’s from the side door. Heading to the front entrance, she skirted the crowded dance floor.

Julia, one of the newcomers called. Over here.

She turned around in time to see Josh waving at her. Carol Sue gestured for her to come back. Another song began and the lights dimmed. People snuggled on the dance floor, heading away from happy hour—into a happy night.

Julia relented and made her way back to the table. A little trip that led to a big surprise.

Hi, Josh, she said, trying to contain herself.

Here, have a seat. I want you to meet Nick. Nick, this is our friend, Julia.

Stunned, Julia set her purse on the table as Josh lavished Carol Sue with a kiss.

Hello, again. Nick proffered his hand. Twice in one day? This is unusual, and a pleasure.

Julia returned his firm shake. I didn’t know you were a friend of Josh’s.

Carol Sue widened her eyes. I didn’t either.

From John Adams U, Nick said. Golf team.

Josh cut in as Carol Sue scooted her chair closer to his. We ran into each other this afternoon at Gallery One. They have a bunch of baseball prints.

Carol Sue moaned, I should’ve known.

And good photography of skyscrapers, Nick added, ordering a round of drinks from the cocktail waitress.

Julia knew the Gallery well. Interesting antiques turn up at their auctions, she said, at a loss what to do now. My aunt has a friend who leads the annual auction.

Suddenly, Josh slapped Nick on the back. It’s damned good to see you, buddy. Thought you left for Boston after school.

No need. I got a job here, and my sister’s here. So staying worked out. Last year I passed the state exams and have been working on some good projects. He eyed Julia. Right in the neighborhood.

She rushed a sip from the second glass of wine the waitress brought.

Josh filled him in about his own business. Home theater is hot now and coaching little league rocks. Hey, here’s some news. Carol Sue and I are getting married in September.

Nick smiled and shook Josh’s hand. Congratulations. And to you, Carol Sue. He then asked Julia, When’s your big day?

Thank God the drink warmed her, because it helped chase the tingles that ran up her spine. Actually, I’m—

FLOOD! Carol Sue cried as her beer glass tipped, sending draft Julia’s way. Quickly, Julia slid her chair back, but not before the foamy brew baptized her lap. She hastily dabbed her slacks in the most private place. Ew. Now I smell like beer.

Yeah, but it’s good beer, Josh joked.

I’d better go, Julia said, wanting to wrap it up here. Ralph’s waiting for me. He’s staying over tonight.

Again? Carol Sue said. He adores you so much.

Yes, he does, she answered, using impression management strategy for Nick’s behalf. And I love him, too.

Nick set his glass of beer on the wood plank table.

"So when are you and Ralph getting married?"

Carol Sue laughed.

I’m missing something? Nick said very patiently.

Josh shook his head. Sorry, man. Ralph’s a dog.

My neighbor’s, Julia admitted, then wanted to sew her mouth shut.

The architect cocked an eyebrow at her, and Carol Sue said to Josh, Let’s go dance.

Sure, just take it easy on me, baby. I showed three kids how to slide home tonight.

In a minute, the couple spun on the floor and Julia couldn’t help watching them. For sure, their marriage would be one made in heaven. Carol Sue and Josh epitomized love-at-first-sight.

Nick’s voice snared her attention.

I like a woman who can laugh at her own situation.

Julia’s thoughts raced. Nick liked women, period.

What situation would that be?

He reached over and stroked her bare ring finger on her left hand. Having a dog as a fiancé.

She raised an eyebrow. What exactly do you want?

He gestured with his broad, tanned hands. On a large scale, my own firm someday. Help create and change neighborhood skylines, you know, build things that last. I like things that last, don’t you?

Julia tried again. How about on a smaller scale?

That’s tough, small scale. But for right now, seeing we’re going to be doing business together, I think we should get things out in the open. You know, put past transgressions behind us.

Julia’s guard shot so high she couldn’t see over the top. Even so, her skin tingled. Why did he affect her this way?

And just what transgressions are those?

Nick opened his mouth, then closed it.

Damned if she didn’t render him speechless. But why? You’re confusing me, she ventured.

He shrugged as colored speckles floated over them from the mirrored ball hanging over the dance floor. No, I make you nervous. But don’t worry. Your secret’s safe with me.

Julia recoiled. Secret?

Nick leaned back and threw a gregarious nod at Carol Sue and Josh who gestured for Julia and him to join them. He began to get up.

I don’t dance, she warned.

That’s not how I remember it.

Please, be a pal. Tell me what you’re talking about.

Disbelief contorted Nick’s face. Okay, you want to play it out this way? No problem. I’ll make concessions for you.

I’m flattered, I think.

Good, here’s the deal. In exchange for a dance, I’ll refresh your memory. His eyes twinkled. That’s it. My final offer.

Julia’s pulse outdid itself. How dare Nick bargain with her about something he knew of her own past! And for a dance? As in touching body parts? His broad, hard-muscled chest against her bust that didn’t stand a chance hiding her pounding heart. Absurd. How about next time? I really do need to go.

Her damp slacks hugged her skin and the aroma of beer was getting to her. But not as much as Nick. He had no idea of the spell he cast on her. Now, all this talk of secrets.

He raised his right hand and snapped his fingers.

Julia?

She nodded and fibbed. I was thinking. About Thursday and our meeting. And that Ralph’s still waiting.

When she stood up, Nick glanced over his shoulder at Josh and Carol Sue. They hugged in an oldies slow dance and Julia lifted her purse strap over her shoulder.

Thanks for the drink.

My pleasure.

He meant it. Before she could move another inch, Nick quickly took her hand. His palm, hard at first, melded with hers. The confident squeeze that followed lingered. Didn’t she know this squeeze? It brimmed with familiar meaning and promise. All very heady on top of two house wines. Even so, she needed to call his bluff.

You said the secret was safe. So just keep it that way. I’m leaving now.

He moved her hand into the crook of his arm. I’ll try, but it might slip out, you know, at an inopportune time.

Julia looked into his eyes. Very disturbing. Something definitely niggled at her that she should know. Maybe Carol Sue was right. Julia was working too hard. Memory loss shouldn’t be happening at her age.

Nick persisted. I’ll also throw in a signed rendering of the new interior of the Mayrose Building. How’s that?

Before she could say, Splendiflora, Nick and she moved together on the crowded dance floor. He pulled her closer and wrapped his arm around her waist. The man’s moves could melt the steel on the Foxbury saber. She soon closed her eyes in the comfort his arms and shoulders provided. Everything that was said around campus about him was true.

Gloriously true. Only practice helped a guy get so good. But a lot could be learned about a man by how he danced. Nick led, but he didn’t ignore or dominate her moves. Her mind clouded. What kind of bona-fide troublemaker was he, anyhow?

Meanwhile, Julia’s body did its own figuring. Darned if she didn’t want his touch to move, further down, or up. His choice. Magic pulsed in this dance. So