Thieves Finding Paradise

By A. C. Logan

Beautiful models are not in short supply. They can be found just about anywhere on the globe, so it was a natural cover for Alison to use. Her passion was espionage and her work as a corporate spy. For most of her whole life, people had simply tried to use her for her looks, never anything beyond the surface. Intelligent with a quick wit, she had soon learned how to use that beauty to her own advantage. When her employer assigned her to do research on one ‘Mr. Cole Wolf’, Alison figured it would be a routine investigation but things quickly got out of hand.

Cole was a lifelong mercenary and had developed his own way of dealing with problems. Now he was looking to retire, but not until he was able to find his best friend and brother in arm’s killer and avenge his untimely death. Alison quickly becomes his only tenuous link to an otherwise very slippery organization.

This unexpected adventure turned both Cole’s and Alison's life around and into each others arms, sort of. One moment they have the other person’s life in their hands, and then the next they are relying on them for their own welfare. With international travel and unpredictable surprises, the pair find their way through rough waters and learn to depend, at least a little, on each other.

As they continue, they uncover layer after layer of hidden agendas that counteracts their growing mutual attraction.

• Language: English
• Publisher: A. C. Logan
• Release date: Apr 10, 2013
• ISBN: 9781301335305

Book preview

Prologue

Pretending to be the press was always easy. Operate with a sense of entitlement, put a camera around your neck and a card in your hat, and you’re in. Tapping into the security system was also easy. These expensive places always seemed to skimp on security, unless they had something they did not want anyone to see. Then they did not use cameras at all.

Mark continued to monitor the security system over the internet. Much to his satisfaction, his facial recognition software was working perfectly.

You’re not going to believe this, Cole. I have been running everyone’s face through the database, and your favorite lady is in every location.

So she’s here? Where is she? Cole asked softly to his Bluetooth while taking pictures for some random high society article.

Look down from your balcony and toward the stage. That fat man with the million-dollar suit has her on his arm. I wonder if he knows she has most likely already taken him for all he is worth. Mark snickered.

All in due time Mark, all in due time. We do not know if she is the agent, but this sure looks suspicious. So far, there was an alibi for every other case, and hers are always impeccable.

Cole, it has to be her. She always has an unbreakable alibi. Isn’t that a little too convenient? My own grandmother has a harder time remembering where she was, and she has not left her house in 15 years.

He knew Mark was right. There was no possible way to ignore the facts.

You are right, Mark. Make the call, and I will get set up on my end.

***********

Watching the breathtakingly beautiful woman pace angrily around his office, Rupert stayed quiet and impassive. He did have to admit, if only to himself, that the fury flashing from her eyes only made his client that much more alluring. There was no way he would pass that onto her, though.

Why do I have to go? I’ve had it with being pawed and groped by doddering scumbags. Just because they have some money to flash around doesn’t give them the right to treat me like a commodity.

Rupert had heard variations of this tirade before and he knew he would just have to let her get it out of her system. He also knew that when she ran out of steam, chances were she would settle down and listen to reason. On occasion, her objections would win the day, but that option would not be on the table today. This target was a person of interest, and the fact that he had asked for the meeting was just too good of an opportunity to overlook. Lost in his thoughts, it took him a moment to realize the room was silent. Alison was staring at him. Her annoyance currently focused in his direction. Have you even been listening to a word I’ve said? She spat out.

Honey, at that volume, it would be impossible to avoid you. he said with a tired smile. Now that you’ve got all of that out of your system, it’s time for you to listen. This Cole has been a person of interest for quite some time. We just haven’t been able to get to him. Now, he’s turning to us — well, to you.

Rupert paused. He could see that he had Alison’s attention and that she was finally listening. He may be the key to a larger operation with the slave trade, or the end goal, we need to know what it is he’s selling. The manager knew he was twisting the truth, but it gained her undivided attention. If this is what we think it is, we’ll send your friend Raven, break his syndicate, and make a lot of money doing it.

From the evil little grin that now crossed that oh so delectable face, it was clear that she was hooked.

***********

He stood by the railing of his yacht and waited patiently. Cole was a tall, ruggedly handsome man with eyes that made you think he was reading your soul. He watched as the carefully orchestrated date made its way through the gates of the private dock. It was of personal satisfaction that, even though the limousine his date rode in may have been rented, the boat that would host their dinner was all his.

Arranging to be in charge of security for a commercial shoot Alison was working on, gave Cole the opportunity to observe her directly for the first time. The photos he had viewed up to that point hadn’t done her justice. Cole was not sure what to expect but was surprised to find that her physical presence far outshone even the director’s original expectations. This model, unlike most of the others around her, seemed to be interested in more than her own little bubble of influence. Her eyes took in everything that was going on around her and filed the data away for future reference.

Cole spent a fair amount of time reading her background check and the deeper he looked the better it got. A website pointing to her modeling portfolio was highlighted, and she was a knock out. Yes, she was beautiful, but she screamed confidence. Cole knew fear when he saw it, and this woman carried herself as if she could charm a flock of sheep.

While on location, Cole would watch her from across the room. When she thought no one was looking, she would closely observe the people around her and there seemed to be an amused look in her eyes. Everyone in the room underestimated this woman, and she knew it. Hell, he was starting to wonder if she actually wanted it that way. This behavior and profile all added up to the infiltrator he and Mark were looking for.

Cole continued to watch and wait for an opportunity to sweep her off her feet, but that occasion never seemed to present itself.

A thorough Google search of Alison had pretty much confirmed the background check that had been delivered earlier — with a few extra interesting pieces of information. There was one link that showed up that did not seem to match with a professional model’s normal portfolio. He clicked on the link and found Alison posing for an adult toy website. She had about a dozen shots showing off items for the manufacturer, and this was the icing on the cake. She was demoing a few rather adventurous items that Cole figured the rest of the models refused to do. Her willingness to play outside the box, explained why the manufacturers brought her in to augment their usual lineup. From Cole’s perspective, having her around for a while could prove to be very interesting.

Chapter 1

The fashion model gone rogue was not sure if the webbing was really all that tight or if it was just that sticky. With nothing but time on her hands, she looked around for some way to free herself. The Taser may have saved her life for now, but it was no help whatsoever in getting her out of her current predicament. As breathing slowly became more difficult, she could not help but think about how her life had come to this point. What absurd chain of events could have led to an oversized, man-hunting spider cocooning her in a tree? Not too many months ago, she’d had a successful career — one that had allowed her to make her looks work for her and take advantage of the men who thought they could use her. Now, who knows what would be making a meal of her in the not so distant future.

Her mind began to drift. This could have been a result of the very real expectation of impending doom or the fact that her breathing was seriously restricted due to the drying of the spider’s webbing around her chest. For whatever the reason her thoughts took her back several months to the point when this adventure had begun.

***********

Some men go their whole lives dreaming of a woman like Alison. Men that are lucky enough to see one, usually find them in their dreams. During her brief modeling career, Alison managed to progress faster than even she could have anticipated. She always made it past the first and second callbacks, and she was generally hired for any gig she bothered to audition for. The package she offered included million dollar legs, outshone only by a tight butt that led to a narrow waist and topped by a perky, almost over-sized chest. Thick, rich mahogany colored hair framed striking features, set off by sparkling green eyes and an unforgettable face. Alison seemed to observe the human race as they interacted with their peers, and she found it all amusing. Those few men who saw beyond her looks, found her attitude to be intriguing.

The chauffeur followed the GPS to the address his client had provided. As he drove, he played his usual game of trying to figure out what kind of woman warranted having this much money spent on her. He had met with the man that rented his services and was dubious about the whole situation. He was not overly concerned with the man's requests, but he wondered how the date would play out. Eventually, he gave up on predicting his client’s chances and just hoped the gentleman remembered he worked for tips.

Keeping an eye on the building's front door, the chauffeur casually rotated through radio stations. The announcer was going on and on about some local band, and he almost forgot to watch the time. Then, when he leaned over to grab his checklist, his personal version of a goddess materialized out of the building. He wasn’t sure how long he was lost to the fantasy, but finally he snapped to his senses, put on his cap, and raced to open her door.

Throughout the course of her career, Alison had been in what must have been thousands of limos and high-end vehicles. If this blind date really wanted to impress her, he was going to have to step it up a notch and come up with something a lot better than a limo that was obviously a rental.

Making a minor adjustment to her little black dress as she exited the building, she noticed the driver trying to check her out, discreetly. Exhaling a bored sigh and with a shrug of her shoulders, she decided to have some fun and give the man a little show. Acting as if she was on her own personal catwalk, the self-assured woman sensuously glided down the walkway, swaying her hips. The chauffeur kept his head locking forward but lost the ability to redirect his eyes. The poor man seemed to almost strain to regain control, but Alison was already directing his vision. She mentally smiled to herself as she approached her chauffeur, watching as the bulge in his pants swelled.

You men are way too easy. I bet I could get you to give me your wallet if you thought I wanted it.

Not for the first time, she wondered if there was someone out there who didn’t just want her for what they could see and touch. Well, someone who wasn't gay.

Her high heels clicked as they moved to the harder cement that made up the sidewalk.

Progressing with confidence, she gave the anxious driver a flirty smile, stepped into the limo and leaned over far enough to let him have a glimpse down the front of her dress. It was just enough to leave him wanting more. It amused her to screw with men's minds. They were like puppies. If you just play with them a little, they fall over themselves to get more attention.

Alison glanced up at the driver before he had a chance to look away. Her look of astonishment led to the poor man jumping back in embarrassment. After he closed her door, she was unable to muffle a laugh that she swallowed by the time he got in the driver’s seat. With a very apologetic look on his face, the chauffeur addressed his passenger through the rear view mirror.

Miss Alison, is there any place you need to go before I deliver you to your destination?

Alison thought for a moment, then told him no.

Inspecting the drink tray, she found that her blind date was thoughtful enough to provide a variety of beverages. She bypassed the wine and the soft drinks, picking up a bottle of water instead. As the driver checked his notes, he remembered one of the requests and wondered what the client was thinking. A lady like Alison doesn’t seem like the type to put up with stupid requests or games.

Oh Miss - just one more thing before we set off. Please look on the side of the drink tray. You will find a scarf. My employer asked if you could you wrap that around your eyes. He said to tell you he wanted to start the blind date off right.

The chauffeur watched Alison in the rear view mirror as she picked up the soft black material and ran it through her fingers with an amused smile on her lips. She reminded herself that her curiosity always got her into trouble, but then again it was never anything she couldn't handle. Playing with the scarf for a moment, Alison glanced up at the driver.

Why should I wear it? What happens if I don't put it on?

The driver just shrugged, and then showed her his notes.

I have no idea. It is just part of the instructions he left for me. I think he wants to add adventure or mystery to the evening. But that’s just a guess. This is a blind date after all.

Alison thought it over and finally nodded.

I guess it does add a bit of excitement. Do you promise to take care of me while I am at your mercy?

The driver puffed his chest up a bit with the request.

Miss, I will do anything you wish.

Alison simply rolled her eyes, but the blindfold protected the driver from her annoyed gaze.

Of course, you will.

Pulling the scarf tight, she wondered what the fabric was made of. It was slightly stretchy, yet very strong. As the limo headed down the road, she passed the time trying to place the material. She had worn more garments than she cared to think of, and yet, the cloth was still holding its secrets. It seemed the date was getting interesting after all.

Preoccupied by the puzzle, it didn’t seem as if great deal of time had passed before the driver brought the car to a halt. As soon as it stopped, he jumped out to help his passenger from her seat.

We’re here, Miss. Let me take your hand.

He guided the blindfolded beauty down the dock and carefully directed her over the random ropes and steps to get to the large yacht. Alison could smell the moisture in the air and heard the click of her heels change as the gently rocking dock morphed to wood. The driver directed her up a rather steep ramp then sat her down at the table.

After checking his notes again, he asked Alison, Is there anything you’d like before I leave?

In his fantasy, she asked him to take her with him, to never leave her side. They would leave both of their worlds behind to be forever in each other’s arms. However, Alison just gave a small smile and shook her head no. This was the last time he saw the woman who would haunt his dreams. He left her sitting calmly at a table lit by candlelight, on a huge yachts deck.

Alison heard the driver depart and was tempted to remove the scarf. After thinking it over for a moment, she decided against it. It would be a lot more fun to just let things ride and see what happened. She was still curious about the cloth, and this was an interesting approach to a blind date.

A ruggedly attractive man, who could have easily been mistaken for a soccer player, stood on the deck of his cruiser and watched as Alison was delivered for dinner. His steely gray eyes took in every detail of the self-possessed woman, who willingly walked into the unknown without hesitation, even though the blindfold kept her in the dark. She was dressed as per his request, so it looked like she was able to follow instructions. He was curious to see how she would react when left to wait on her own.

She’s here. He spoke quietly, so only the Bluetooth tucked into his ear would pick up the sound. Damn Mark, she is one tasty dish.

Keep focused Cole. You’ll have plenty of time to play once we get the information we need. Man, you’d think this was your first operation. Mark could not help but tease. There’s plenty more where she came from. You’ve never found there to be a shortage.

Cole just shook his head but didn’t bother to respond out loud. Nope Mark, you’re wrong there. There is something very different about this one. I just can’t place my finger on it... yet.

Ok, it’s time to get this party started. I’ll contact you as soon as there’s something to say. Just before he removed the small device, he heard Mark’s sign off and then silence.

After five minutes had passed, Cole was surprised that his guest still seemed to be relaxed and had not removed the blindfold. Her hands had moved briefly but then returned to a resting position. She seemed content to listen to the waves as they lapped against the side of the boats docked nearby, and the birds as they called to each other in contest. She was at peace despite the anxiety of the date. Did she know he was watching over her already?

While Alison relaxed in the rather comfortable deck chair, her mind locked onto the movement she felt. The floor behind her seat flexed very slightly, most likely from the weight of a man walking behind her. The steps never veered away, so naturally she assumed he was walking in her direction.

Well, it’s about time he made an appearance.

Approaching from behind, Cole gently lifted her hands and placed a wine glass in one, and then a piece of cheese in the other. A deep voice that sounded almost like it could reverbed against her chest, somehow softly caressed her ears. Did she detect a hint of a Gaelic accent?

It is a pleasure to finally meet you, my dear. However, before we actually get to greet each other face to face, I was hoping to get your take on my selection of wine and cheese for the evening. I would rather you not remove the blindfold until you have tasted them.

Alison paused for a moment and tried to place the slight intonation of his accent before she answered. There was something about his voice that sent shivers through her body. She knew she’d be lying to herself if she thought a sudden chill wind had caused her goose bumps.

It is a pleasure to finally see you as well. She said, with a slightly ironic tone. This is about the most interesting first date I’ve ever had, and we’re just getting started. She giggled with a carefully selected silly girly laugh. I’ve actually worked up a bit of a thirst waiting, so I can’t wait to taste the wine. Again, she giggled.

Carefully studying the woman that sat at his table, Cole took the opportunity to stare at Alison without being accused of rudeness.

It’s interesting to see that you're not afraid of taking risks. Not many women would willingly go along with this so easily. Cole took a second to study the reaction on Alison’s blindfolded face. He was not sure if she was stonewalling him or simply did not fully understanding the potential risk to her situation.

Please taste the cheese. The coloring is a little bluish and some people cannot get passed that. They miss out on one of the greatest taste sensations I have come across simply because they could not get past the surface.

Alison let her confusion show, and Cole chuckled politely.

Please, have a taste, and tell me what you think.

Alison followed this invitation with a large gulp, knowing full well that wine should be sipped slowly, to properly appreciate the vintage. She then followed up with a big, unladylike bite of the cheese.

Her date for the evening watched this performance with a look of disdain.

Hmmm, it seems with those kinds of looks, you don’t have to learn how to use your brains or have good manners. I could have sworn she would be deeper than this. Perhaps I let her beauty get the best of me.

As Alison was about to make another inane remark, the taste of the wine registered, and she stopped in mid swallow almost choking in the process.

Oh my. That is good. It’s perfectly dry and yet fills my mouth with an amazing assortment of tastes, and the aroma is exquisite. She took a moment to swallow, then added, And I think, the cheese is a perfect pairing. I’m afraid I combined the tastes a bit too quickly to be sure though

Slowing down now, she sipped the wine very carefully letting it roll over her tongue. Once she tasted it again, she took a small bite of the cheese. That is a perfect combination. What is it? Where did you get it?

For a moment, Alison forgot to portray herself as an empty-headed young woman. She simply enjoyed the exotic taste and the sensation of newly combined flavors.

Cole took notice of this ninety-degree turn in her persona and carefully filed it away for future consideration. He didn’t let his observation show as he answered, Oh, It’s a little something I picked up a few years ago. It was suggested that I age it for four to five years before the notes really came out. He let out a sigh of regret; It’s too bad the old man that made the wine passed away. His family hasn’t been able to reproduce the same flavor. They try, but the old man took the secret to his grave.

Pausing to give her a chance to comment, Cole allowed himself the luxury of watching Alison delicately sample his selection. When it was clear that she had nothing to add Cole continued. This is some of the last of it of the wine. If I had had any idea how good it would be, I would have had the old man make a truckload of it. It seems some things have to be enjoyed, or they are lost forever to time.

Now, Cole gently removed the blindfold and revealed that the wine looked a bit watered down, and the cheese was actually a very strong shade of blue.

I am glad you left the blindfold on. It gave me a chance to have you try the taste without the effect of the odd coloring. It was also interesting watching your reaction.

Alison gave Cole a sexy flirty smile and a wink. Thanks for explaining that. I have to admit, I was kind of curious about why you’d want me to be blindfolded. You never know these days. It’s good to know your intentions are honorable. She smiled at him shyly when she finished that and then remembering to get back into character and giggled again. You have a beautiful boat by the way. Do you travel on it a lot?

While Alison made polite conversation, she also started the process of sizing Cole up. Physically he definitely suited her taste. He was attractive, tall, lean, and fit. His khakis hung loosely on his narrow hips allowing him to move with almost a panthers ease, and the loose cotton shirt that was open at the neck did nothing to hide his well-toned chest. It was clear that he was in great shape without being overly muscular. Obviously, he hadn’t let living on a boat stop him from keeping fit. To add to his allure, his steely grey eyes held secrets and possibly sadness. Alison was happily intrigued: first the blindfold, then the wine and cheese, and to top it off an interesting man that made her want to make him smile.

It seems this evening won’t be a total waste of time after all. I guess my manager threw me a bone.

Cole casually glanced back across his boat and tried to address her question. I do get around a bit. Mostly business, although, at times I’ll entertain guests. Perhaps you would like to see the city while we eat? he quickly changed the subject.

I’d love to! I’ve never seen the city from the harbor before. Alison was genuinely interested, and it showed in her smile and the way her eyes lit up.

This is getting more and more curious. It seems my lovely date has many layers, and I haven’t even started to try and peel them off. Cole grinned to himself.

"By the way, what type of business are you in? I noticed the blindfold was made of something quite unusual. Are you an importer? Alison threw the question in almost as an afterthought, all the while watching him closely from under her eyes.

Well, unfortunately I have spent most of my career putting my life on the line. Now I am more of an inventor.

Alison watched for telltale signs of lying but expertly kept her fake ‘you are so fascinating’ face on.

What are you hiding, Mr. Cole?

For his part, Cole mentally paused and began to wonder if this little fashion model was actually starting to play mind games? The idea seemed a bit of a far stretch but still, what was she fishing for?

Maybe she’s just a gold digger looking for a sugar daddy. It seems everyone has a hidden agenda these days. Cole had to look aside as this thought crossed his mind, since he was having trouble suppressing the evil grin that accompanied it.

Alison waited for an explanation, so Cole let the story get a little deeper.

In my past life, I came into contact with a lot of unscrupulous businessmen. Over time, it turned out that I was able to handle my end of the business dealings very well. I always made it a point to never leave loose ends, and that reputation became very valuable. But, at some point you have to simply walk away, so I did.

Alison kept a close watch on Cole while trying not to be too obvious. She had to stop herself from trying too hard to learn what he was leaving out of his story. Even accounting for the huge gaps, he seemed to be telling the truth. Investigator Alison wanted to unravel the mystery in front of her, but it would guarantee a blown cover. For now, she was forced to play dumb and hope for some other opportunity.

Oh, I’m sure a man like you has had an adventurous life so far. You have to be doing more than just being an inventor.

Cole raised his wine glass to Alison and politely nodded, I am sure my old buddies would agree with you, but that is for another day. First, how about we tour the city while we enjoy our meal.

Alison smiled, raised her glass, and nodded yes.

Cole stood up, walked to the edge of the cruiser, untied the anchoring ropes, and the boat slowly pulled away from the dock. The cruiser ‘Viviane’ turned up the coast line and then headed into the large mouth of the river at a crawl. With the sun starting to set, the lights of the city were just now becoming visible. Cole and Alison sat on the deck as the yacht slowly made its way under the bridges. They waved at several of the couples that were strolling by the riverside, and as they began to exit the city, the boat turned around to go back down stream. By this time, the sun had completely set, and the city was fully lit up. The view was striking, and they both refilled their glasses to enjoy their trip back through this city of light.

The second trip was just as relaxing as the first. Different views were to be had the whole way, and they often caught the sound of music coming from an open window or a street performer. Horse drawn carriages pulled couples young and old through the park along the rivers bank. People were walking their dogs that barked at the large craft gliding past them. The congested traffic gave the bridges the needed extra light that lit them up ever so nicely. Several hours later, the city gave way to the open ocean.

Alison was surprised to see how quickly they had come so far out, and she moved to the front of the boat. I guess we’ll be turning back soon. She said this somewhat ruefully, since she had been enjoying the ride and the conversation. From the bow of the boat, she could see the stars that were normally hidden by the lights of the city. Enjoying the sea breeze as it blew through her hair; she turned to look at Cole and smiled. Few men ever had the good fortune to see her eyes light up with a real smile that held no immediate secrets.

Cole couldn't help but admire his date. In anticipation of her slipping, the man walked up to stand behind her. As he reached the railing, the boats motors could be heard throttling up. The craft lurched forward, and as if the move was choreographed, Cole grabbed her by the waist, holding her in place. The powerful motors threw the boat forward, and they shot across the water. The wash from the waves crashed against the bow, spraying water across the deck and the couple that stood there. After several minutes of full throttle, the boat slowed then turned back around and faced the distant shining city.

Cole didn’t let go of Alison. He found the feel of her to be far too comfortable.

By now, Alison was shivering in Cole’s arms. She turned to him What happened? Is everything ok with the boat?

The water was a bit choppier than I thought it would be. Wanted to take you for a good spin and I got you all wet. Really sorry about that. If Alison had put any thought into that answer, she would have found the sincerity lacking. But for the moment, she was too chilled.

I’m freezing - do you have a jacket or something? That was kinda fun, until I got wet. Alison began to laugh, so that she wouldn’t give away how annoyed she was about getting soaked and cold. She hated being cold. As Cole started to speak, Alison’s teeth began to chatter.

I apologize once again; as luck would have it I believe I have some extra clothes downstairs that just might fit you. If you wish, I could provide you with a private dressing room and a change of dry clothes.

Alison thought about this for a moment. What can it hurt? It will be good to get out of the wet clothes, and maybe it will be some more of that interesting material.

That would be great. But I may need to wear it home. I didn't bring a spare change of clothes, and I am kind of cold.

She shivered in his arms, just for added dramatic effect.

Cole rubbed the sides of her arms to help warm her up as he escorted her into the cabin. As the wet pair closed the door behind them, Alison noticed that there was no one at the wheel of the boat. There were only a few computer screens, something that looked like radar from the movies, and several small controls.

She immediately pulled away from Cole and headed over to the monitors to take a better look. "Wow, this is kind of cool. It looks just like the movies - where did the captain go?’

As she spoke, she was taking in all the equipment and trying to get an understanding of how it all worked together. Before she could stop herself, she commented, It looks like this boat is on automatic pilot.

Now there’s even more of a mystery.

Cole paused a moment in disbelief. Now in what universe would this little model know anything about computers and nautical equipment?

"That is correct my dear. This boat is built to my specifications. I designed several of its systems, and they are still experimental. The boat is actually programmed to follow directions on its own. I can put in pre-programmed routes, and it