A Wife in Every Sense

By Joanne Walsh

Love was never part of his plan...

Kate Burrows is crushing on her boss big time. Aleksei Aleksanou is tall, dark, and every inch the image of a classic Greek god-if said Greek god was incredibly sexy, rich, and a complete player. The only way she can get over him is by quitting her job and seeing the world...once she indulges in one wickedly-hot night with him.

Only now she's pregnant.

Aleksei is furious when Kate arrives on the small Greek island of Naxea and tries to hide the truth for him. He takes matters into his own hands-by announcing the pregnancy to his family and asking her to marry him. Now Kate must decide if she can marry the man of her hottest, sexiest dreams...knowing she will never be the wife of his heart.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Macmillan Publishers
• Release date: Sep 14, 2015
• ISBN: 9781622667581

Book preview

Love was never part of his plan…

Kate Burrows is crushing on her boss big time. Aleksei Aleksanou is tall, dark, and every inch the image of a classic Greek god—if said Greek god was incredibly sexy, rich, and a complete player. The only way she can get over him is by quitting her job and seeing the world…once she indulges in one wickedly-hot night with him.

Only now she’s pregnant.

Aleksei is furious when Kate arrives on the small Greek island of Naxea and tries to hide the truth for him. He takes matters into his own hands—by announcing the pregnancy to his family and asking her to marry him. Now Kate must decide if she can marry the man of her hottest, sexiest dreams…knowing she will never be the wife of his heart.

Table of Contents

Prologue

Chapter One

Chapter Two

Chapter Three

Chapter Four

Chapter Five

Chapter Six

Chapter Seven

Chapter Eight

Chapter Nine

Chapter Ten

Chapter Eleven

Chapter Twelve

Chapter Thirteen

Chapter Fourteen

Chapter Fifteen

Chapter Sixteen

About the Author

Discover more category romance titles from Entangled Indulgence…

The Millionaire’s Unexpected Proposal

His Billion Dollar Baby

One Night with the Billionaire

Reforming the Playboy

This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, or persons, living or dead, is coincidental.

Copyright © 2015 by Joanne Walsh. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce, distribute, or transmit in any form or by any means. For information regarding subsidiary rights, please contact the Publisher.

Entangled Publishing, LLC

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Visit our website at www.entangledpublishing.com.

Indulgence is an imprint of Entangled Publishing, LLC.

Edited by Liz Pelletier

Cover design by Kelley York

Cover art from Shutterstock

ISBN 978-1-62266-758-1

Manufactured in the United States of America

First Edition September 2015

Prologue

Seven years earlier

I t meant nothing, Kate. It was just a game…a bit of fun.

She stood frozen to the spot with shock in the middle of the saloon bar of the Boar’s Head, a quaint old-world pub in the heart of England. It was a favorite student haunt, and tonight—Saturday—it was full to bursting with revelers from Camford’s famous, ancient, top-flight university. She was dimly aware that a circle of onlookers had formed around her and Oliver—just like the spectators who, two hundred years ago, would have watched the cockfights reputed to have taken place in this wood-paneled, low-beamed room.

Oliver Temperley-Smythe stood tall and stony faced, his handsome, aristocratic features showing no emotion or kindness as he repeated, It was a game…a bit of fun.

Kate felt as though she’d been stabbed through the heart. I don’t understand, she pleaded. You said you loved me.

Oliver shrugged. Yeah, well, it was what you wanted to hear…and—a satisfied smile played around his lips—I won the bet.

The watching crowd had gone very quiet now, and within its ranks somebody sniggered.

A storm of hurt and disbelief whirled in Kate’s brain, and for a moment she thought her knees were going to give way, but she willed herself to stay standing.

"A bet, she echoed. You went out with me for three months, convinced me that you loved me and slept with me for a bet?"

Oliver’s expression took on a haughty sneer. "Yeah. The Bucks had a wager going this semester. Members had to find first years. Virgins. He wore a triumphant smile when he uttered that last word. You were the only one who came across."

But Ollie, I thought we had a relationship, Kate persisted, tears trickling now, causing her mascara to make inky trails under her eyes and on her cheeks. I believed what you told me. That you cared about me.

Sorry. Look, I don’t know why you’re getting so upset. We had a good time, didn’t we? And you got broken in into the bargain.

"Broken in? I’m not a horse!" Kate’s fists clenched with indignation.

One of Oliver’s fellow Bucks moved out of the crowd and tapped his arm. C’mon, mate, leave her. She’s just another slag. We’re going on to the Red Lion.

Oliver stood for a moment and surveyed Kate and her smeary, distraught face, then he turned to leave without another word. The show finished, the onlookers nudged and pushed past Kate as she remained standing like a statue, trying to take in what had just happened to her.

She’s just another slag. The cruel, cold words bit at her like frostbite, deep enough to scar.

Chapter One

W e could talk about it over dinner this evening…

The blonde sitting opposite Aleksei Aleksanou leaned forward as she breathed her suggestion. If he read the invitation in Denise Ferguson’s heavily made-up eyes correctly, she was hoping they could seal the deal later in his bed. But he was not interested. For a start, there was no need; they’d already reached an agreement without having to mix business with pleasure. And anyway, he had more important matters to attend to.

That would have been very pleasant, but I’m already otherwise engaged.

What a shame, she pouted. She sat back and flicked her bleached, streaked hair extensions over her shoulder, her sharp eyes roaming hungrily over his muscular physique. Got a hot date?

Aleksei smiled and shook his head. I’m taking my personal assistant to dinner. Kate’s leaving at the end of the week to go traveling, and I want to show my appreciation to her and thank her for all that’s she done for me.

Denise’s penciled eyebrow shot up. "Appreciation? She dragged out the word suggestively. She’s a very lucky girl."

Aleksei waved a conversational hand, deliberately misunderstanding the innuendo behind Denise’s words. No, I’m the lucky one. Or maybe unlucky. Kate’s been a gem—she’s going to be a real loss to my team. He needed to turn the conversation back to business. Okay, we have a deal. I will arrange for the contracts to be sent to you as soon as possible for your signature. He stood up, signaling that the meeting was over.

P ut me through to Aleksei—now!

Kate tried her hardest not to bridle at the demanding female voice and replied as calmly as she could, Miss Jones, as I explained to you, Mr. Aleksanou is in a meeting. But if you would like me to take a message for you, I will make sure he gets it as soon as he is free.

I know he’s there! The already shrill tones of supermodel Phoenix Jones raised another notch. And I know you’re stonewalling me! You didn’t pass on my message after I called yesterday.

Kate swallowed down a sigh. She had given her Greek boss Phoenix’s message yesterday afternoon, but clearly Aleksei had chosen not to return the call. Kate knew the score: Aleksei’s affair with Phoenix had run its course, but she was finding it hard to accept. No doubt the supermodel would shortly be the recipient of a beautiful gift of an exquisite necklace and matching earrings from one of London’s most upmarket jewelers. Kate knew just how gorgeous the good-bye gifts he gave were—she’d ordered a number of sets for his cast-off women during her time as his PA.

Right now, Phoenix was being treated to the same discreet silence that Aleksei always employed when he decided his relationships were over. He was not a man to involve himself in messy emotional situations. And from what Kate had observed of the tall, lithe, impossibly lovely-looking brunette, when her farewell of fabulous bling arrived, no doubt Phoenix’s anger would disappear quicker than a champagne cocktail.

Miss Jones, Kate responded, her voice pleasant but firm, Mr. Aleksanou is very, very busy at the moment. He already has yesterday’s message, and I will be certain to tell him that you called again today.

You’d better, you stuck-up little cow. Well, one thing’s for sure—you won’t be blocking me next time I call. I hear that he’s ditched you.

If only she could tell Phoenix Jones that, actually, she’d handed in her notice, but she held her tongue. Thank you, Miss Jones. I’ve made a note of everything you’ve had to say and I’ll make sure Mr. Aleksanou receives it.

She replaced the handset firmly in its cradle and got up, taking the message slip into Aleksei’s office and placing it on his desk. It was strange to think that after Friday she’d no longer be in these familiar surroundings. She glanced around the room, her attention drawn again to the huge oil painting that depicted a sunlit Greek bay surrounded by creamy yellow sandstone cliffs and dark green pines. The focal point of the painting was a small rock island in the middle of the aquamarine sea, on which stood a small classical six-columned marble temple.

The painting had always intrigued her—she found it be deep and otherworldly. She’d once asked Aleksei about the artist—who’d signed the initials I.A. in one corner—but he’d been unwilling to reveal much about him or her, except to say quietly, It’s by an artist from the island where my family lives, who died some years ago.

He’d seemed reticent, meaning that he didn’t want to talk about what could be a favorite retreat on his beloved home island of Naxea. Aleksei was an incredibly driven man and, apart from an endless stream of women passing through his life, he had to find his peace and relaxation somehow.

However, he was more willing to talk about the framed photos that also hung on his office walls, of bespoke, luxurious, architecturally cutting-edge Aegean villas, through which he’d built up his family’s property business and made millions. He’d used his prowess to beat the economic crisis in southern Europe and sold or rented them to wealthy Americans and northern Europeans who sought spectacular second homes in the sun.

Shaking her head, she picked up the expensive tailored suit jacket he’d flung carelessly on the sofa where he’d met with his last clients. She laughed, thinking how much his informal manner belied his killer business instinct.

They used to meet daily, early in the morning, for him to brief her on what he needed done each day. She’d miss the way he leaned forward, sleeves rolled up, tanned forearms resting on the desk. He’d tug his tie loose, as though he couldn’t stand it being tight, and unbutton the collar buttons. Even though he was all business, he kept in shape.

Her tummy flipped. In a couple of days, handsome, enigmatic, brilliant Aleksei would no longer be a part of her life.

This dynamic man she’d worked for over the last two years would have to be put behind her as she embarked on a new phase of her life.

Nostalgia had her turning away, but she stopped to straighten a pile of papers threatening to topple off a side chair. She tapped the last of the papers together and swung around, nearly bumping into Aleksei.

He reached out to hold her steady, but the warmth seeping through her thin blouse made her stiffen.

Careful. It wouldn’t do for you to have an accident and miss our dinner this evening.

His deep tones, flavored with his Greek heritage, washed over her. She raised her head and met his deep brown eyes, and a rush of heat bloomed in her cheeks. Wanting to cover her feelings for him, she laughed and retorted, Oh, I’ll be there, come what may, even if my leg is in a plaster cast and my arm is in a sling. I’m so looking forward to eating at Odyssea. They say the menu there is marvelous!

His eyes crinkled into a heart-stopping smile. Hopefully you’ll make it through the next couple of hours in one piece, then, he said wryly. The food at Odyssea is the best Greek cuisine in London.

He dropped his hands away from her and raked a hand through his thick ebony hair, a gesture she knew only too well meant he was moving into business dynamo mode again. Did that call come through from Athens while I was in the meeting with Denise Ferguson?

No, not yet. She changed gears and responded with the efficiency and focus that he demanded. But I did take another call from Phoenix Jones. I’ve left a note on your desk.

"Na pari i eychi! Another call? Can’t the woman let it go?"

He paused, his jaw clenched, annoyance flaring in his dark eyes. But she had to tell him the truth. I think Phoenix needs to be told that the relationship’s over, she ventured carefully, giving a small grimace that conveyed her sympathy for both Aleksei and the uncomfortable task in front of him, and for Phoenix, whose pride was about to take a denting.

He surveyed her, his face a mask of control. Gusting out a heavy sigh, he held his hands up. Yes, you’re right. I’ll speak to her now. After that, you’ll deal with it in the usual way?

Yup. Let me know when you’ve talked to Miss Jones, and then I’ll get on to it. Good, finally taking my advice. What stones would you like?

His features relaxed, and he chuckled. Definitely rubies this time. She’s one fiery lady. Set with diamonds, of course.

Got it. She couldn’t hide a rueful smile, agreeing with the fiery part. Would you like some tea? I’m just about to make some for myself.

"Efcharistó. That would be most welcome. He paused and gave her a meaningful look. You know, I’m going to miss you very much. I doubt if I’ll find anyone as trustworthy and reliable as you ever again. Or as honest with me."

Her cheeks warmed again. Oh, I’m sure you will. Suddenly shy, she batted away his compliment. Susan Jenkins seems very professional and straightforward. She had no issues coping with the work when we did our handover day last week.

He pursed his lips. She seems like a bit of a dragon to me.

Aleksei!

Don’t you think she looks a bit unapproachable and scary?

She thought of Susan, a rather formal, starchy woman in her fifties, with her severe, short hairstyle, boxy suit, and clipped way of speaking. Even Phoenix Jones would have the devil’s own job getting past her. I think Susan will be perfect for what you need. She has years of experience working with CEOs of international corporations. I handpicked her specially, she said diplomatically, adding hopefully, and she can’t be that scary. She told me she breeds cats in her spare time.

Cats? That is all right. He rubbed the back of his neck. But I will miss you, Kate, very, very much. He paused. Will you miss me?

She hesitated. Longed to tell him that, yes, she would miss him with all her heart. But that kind of revelation wasn’t part of their relationship and would do her no good at all. She fell back on humor to hide her sadness. I think you’ll miss me and my tea- and coffee-making skills more, she retorted sparkily.

For short seconds, his eyes lingered on her, then his mouth quirked into a smile. We’ve made a good team, you and I. There will always be a place for you here, Kate. If you ever decide you want to return.

She nodded, tears gathering in her eyes. Hurrying out, she dabbed at her eyes. I’ll go make that tea.

Aleksei watched Kate’s departing back. She would be irreplaceable. Bright, calm, and highly professional when the heat was on, there was no other woman in the world whom he could trust to be so open and direct with him. Many were the times he’d wondered what really went on under that capable, amusing exterior. A beautiful woman, with a creamy complexion, auburn hair, and sparkling aquamarine eyes, she held herself well—in a proud, determined, almost defiant way. But she was also something of a puzzle; her emotions were so very tucked away.

His body hardened, and he wondered once again what lay beneath her neat, quietly fashionable office outfits. What would it be like to undress her, to reveal her long, slender, exquisitely pale limbs, to kiss and caress her small, firm breasts? There was nothing false or fixed up about Kate.

He wanted her. But he’d never gone there, even though he could tell she wanted him as well—the way she broke eye contact too quickly, jumped like a nervous rabbit if he got too close, and tried too hard to be breezy and nonchalant if the conversation meandered to the personal. At times, the tension flickered between them like an elusive butterfly, and he could tell she found it hard to deal with.

No, she was classy, had been too valuable a colleague, too genuine a person, to lose because of a passing affair. Lovely as she was, it was better for a man like him to look but not touch. He preferred short-lived involvements with women who knew the score: sex, but no intimacy allowed.

Since she’d told him she was leaving, his physical desire for her had increased; what had once been an itch was spreading like a rash. But there was nothing to be done about it. It would be easy to seduce her now that her employment with him was coming to an end, but also dishonorable and messy.

He