The Silent Partner (Without Rules #4)

By Tyffani Clark Kemp

A year and a half has passed since the car accident that left Mariss Red hospitalized, but she is healing and her life is back to normal. Well, as normal as possible for a woman who lost her husband and child, and for a man who didn’t believe in love.
Sebastian Boa now has a steady partner and two children to take care of. The four of them live in London and are working to shake free of the horrific events that brought them together. Christmas is on the horizon and the couple is looking forward to hosting both of their families and their friends for the holidays.
Mariss has a secret. She’s struggling with her dark side. Something happened when she was attacked, something that makes it hard to keep her fractured personality from surfacing. To make matters worse, someone from her past has decided to resurface and no one is ready to deal with it.
Sebastian knows Mariss is keeping something from him. He also knows that at any moment she could realize just what a huge mistake she made in loving a man like him. And a man like him knows it’s best to cut ties early, before he can get hurt or hurt her.
Problem is, he’s not that man anymore, and he’s not sure he wants to live without the woman who changed him so completely.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tyffani Clark Kemp
• Release date: Dec 21, 2018
• ISBN: 9780463087398

Tyffani Clark Kemp

Tyffani Clark Kemp might be the quietest person in the room, but that just means she’s probably the biggest freak too. She is a multi-genre author with a gift for the written word and a desire to help all Indies reach their full potential. In 2012, she and her best friend Kimberly Fudge started SideStreet Cookie Publishing for authors who want to remain independent, but don’t have the time or the knowledge to do it all themselves. From the age of eleven she dedicated her life to writing and making sure she was good at her craft. Now, she passes that knowledge on to others. Her friends would describe her as determined and giving. She may be quite, but she always has a story to tell.

Book preview

Bassy Bear

Fennick lounged on the sofa, eyes glued to the TV. Almost as if he feared that if he looked away he might forget how to breathe. Fenn could sit in front of that TV for hours and not move a muscle. Mariss said it helped him with his English if he used captions, but even she made him move every now and then. Sebastian stuck his hand in his pocket and jingled his keys. Fenn was slow, but he peeled his eyes away from the TV screen to look at him.

I thought I told you to turn that off and help get Katie ready so we can leave, Sebastian said, unable to hide his annoyance. We’re already late and I don’t like to be late.

I know. Fenn’s eyes were defiant. Just like his mother’s.

If you know then why are you still watching TV? He should never have let Mariss talk him into getting them one. Even Katie had a hard time tearing herself away.

Fenn reached for the remote, turned the TV off, and shuffled past Sebastian with his eyes cast down. That was the way of it anymore. He wouldn’t look Sebastian in the eye. The boy would be eighteen soon. Sebastian wasn’t sure what to do with him.

He looked just like Hellena. Same bone structure, same attitude. Same dark, hard eyes. Same smile, though he would only smile for Mariss. Nothing Sebastian ever said earned him one.

From the kitchen, Mariss and Katie giggled.

It’s not funny, he called. Sebastian found Mariss at the counter where Katie was finishing up apple slices with peanut butter. I didn’t ask him to solve world hunger. I just want him to get ready so we can go. I don’t like to be late.

Mariss snorted. You sound so much like a parent anymore. It’s adorable and the sexiest thing I’ve ever heard.

Sebastian sighed. He couldn’t be mad when she looked at him with those wide, starry eyes. She made him feel like the most important man in the world. He was used to women fawning over him. That hadn’t changed in the least bit, even though he now had a steady live-in partner and two children to care for. Women still looked at him like they wanted to devour him. But when Mariss looked at him with those shining, happy brown eyes, she could ask him to stab himself and he’d do it. He couldn’t tell her no.

Are we ready? he asked Katie. The little blonde girl looked up at him and smiled. There was peanut butter all over her fingers and she tried to lick it away as she nodded.

I just need to wash my hands, she said.

And your face, little one.

I’m sorry we’re late, she said.

And when Katie looked at him with her big, sad, blue eyes they might as well put him in a coffin and bury him. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for his two favorite women.

There’s no reason to be sorry. Sebastian swiped Katie out of her chair and swung her up into his arms, peanut butter squeals and all. He carried her over to the sink and turned on the tap for her to wash her hands. He didn’t miss the look Mariss gave him as he passed.

What is it? he asked.

We can talk about it later. The bags are in the car. All that’s left are the bodies.

Bodies? Sebastian shook his head and laughed. It’s Christmas, not Halloween.

Mariss didn’t respond. Sebastian spared a side glance. Her head was bowed over her hands on the counter. She didn’t look especially troubled, she could have been praying to anyone else, but he knew better.

Christmas Eve was the day something was taken from her, something precious. It marked the beginning of two long, painful months that were the darkest time in her life. Two years ago she’d lost a child. Little Holliss was the last remaining piece of her deceased husband and he’d been ripped away from her.

Sebastian handed Katie a towel and said to her, Mama Mariss needs a hug.

Katie beamed. She jumped from his arms and wrapped her arms around Mariss’ hips. Mariss looked down at the little girl and smiled.

Ready to go? she asked

Katie nodded. I can’t wait to see Tony, she said.

Mariss chuckled. Well, then we’d better hurry up. She looked at Fenn and said something to him in German. He nodded and shuffled away.

He doesn’t like me, Sebastian said.

You treat him different. We’ve been over this.

He’s practically an adult, May. You want me to treat him like I treat an eight year old?

Mariss shook her head. You took to parenthood better than anyone expected. You’re amazing, but you can’t play favorites.

He frowned. Beg pardon? What do you mean?

Everyone knows Katie is your favorite, she said so soft he barely heard.

I do not – he began, but Mariss shook her head. She sent Katie on to the car.

We’ll talk later. Just be nice. She put her warm hand on his chest and looked up at him.

I am nice, he said, aware that he was pouting.

Mariss smiled and went up on her toes to kiss him. He met her halfway.

Are you shrinking? he asked.

I’m not wearing my shoes. They’re in the car. They pinch my toes.

Sebastian set the code for the security system, locked up, and followed followed her out the door. He’d bought the building a long time ago when it was just an empty warehouse and a set of vague plans. Over the years, he’d secretly turned it into four luxury flats. There were three other tenants, a woman from India who had adopted her grandchildren when her son died from cancer, a retired veteran, and a semi-reclusive woman named Willow. Sebastian barely saw her.

Sebastian, Mariss, and the children moved in a little over a year ago after the accident. All three tenants were helpful with the children. Especially Willow, which had surprised him.

Sebastian’s Jaguar was totaled in the accident. They’d needed something safe they could all four fit in comfortably, but he’d drawn the line at a minivan.

Mariss still wouldn’t drive. She’d do it if she needed to, but she didn’t like it. It left her in a fog was what she told people. What she meant was that it made that other side of her, the dark side, take over.

Mariss helped Katie get buckled into her seat and turned to smile at him. Sebastian smiled back. He would never have imagined that his life would be like this. He had everything he’d ever had, but with Mariss, Katie, and Fenn he had something that made his life feel like a winning lottery ticket. He’d run from this for so long, but in the end it landed in his lap.

Sebastian got into the car and buckled himself in. He looked over at Mariss. Her hands were tucked into her lap and her head was tipped down so her hair fell over her face.

Alright, love? he asked.

She shook her head back and smiled at him, but the light in her eyes was dim.

Perfect.

He didn’t press her. He just put the car in drive.

The Home was a place Sebastian had built for the many abused underage models and pageant children in the fashion industry. Katie was one of them. After the fire he’d moved it to a place in Buckinghamshire with more room and property that would allow them to expand. They’d just finished an extra wing where they were going to stay for the next week to celebrate Christmas and New Years.

Katie jumped out of the car as soon as it was in park and ran across the property to the front door. Fenn, on the other hand, slunk out of the car with his hands in his pockets.

He’ll be okay, Mariss said once they were alone. But you have to treat them equal.

He’s practically an adult, Mariss.

Then treat him like one.

Sebastian frowned. He wasn’t sure how he was treating Fennick like a child, but the dullness in Mariss’ eyes hadn’t faded as he’d hoped. Arguing wasn’t the best choice right now. Instead, he nodded and turned the engine off.

I’ll try to remember.

She smiled. No need to placate me. I’m fine. I promise. Just…stressed.

She looked toward the house, but he knew she was seeing something else.

About?

Both of my parents under the same roof for a week. They don’t exactly get along. It’s tedious to try to keep them away from each other for a few hours, let alone a whole week.

Sebastian squeezed her hand. We’ll make it happen, and if you need anything…

A tall, slender, blonde woman stepped out of the house and stood at the door with her arms crossed. Mariss’ face broke into a wide grin.

Well, there you go. You don’t have to do it alone. Run along.

She unbuckled herself and flew out of the car and into the arms of the blonde. Sebastian got out of the car and waited. When the two women were done embracing, the blonde came leisurely over to him.

Hello, Sebastian, she said with a grin.

Hello, Juliet.

He hugged her and she hugged him back.

Did you miss me? she asked.

Not at all, he teased. You call everyday.

Juliet grinned. I run part of your lady’s business. I have to communicate.

I’m glad you could make it, he said. I don’t think I ever thanked you for helping so much last year during May’s recovery.

Mariss, Juliet said. He’s being sappy again!

Yeah, that’s pretty common anymore. Mariss linked her arm through Juliet’s. The domestic life has made him squishy.

Sebastian frowned. I am not squishy.

No, you’re pretty hard. Mariss winked and tugged Juliet toward the house.

Well, that was gross. Juliet let Mariss drag her away and they disappeared into the house.

Sebastian chuckled. He had become a bit domestic, but it came with some great perks.

The house was in an uproar. Children raced across the entryway, shrieking and laughing. Katie was among them, trailing after with her flaxen hair billowing behind her. And that laughter. Sebastian turned to find Mariss with her head thrown back, sleek dark strands of hair shimmering in the light where they bounced from her laughing. Fennick stood next to her laughing silently. When he spotted Sebastian the laughter dimmed, but the look in his eyes and on Mariss’ face was pure joy.

Mariss looked at Sebastian and grinned. She was there, back where she belonged. He hadn’t heard that laugh in so long.

Bassy! she cried. Look what the children got for us.

Sebastian took a careful step, and another, trying to make it look like he was being leisurely and not that he was about to lose his nuts just from watching her laugh.

We’re going to have to get rid of these kids soon, he said, pulling Maris close so she could feel just how hard he was. What the hell is that? Sebastian stared at the giant teddy bear taking up the whole hallway.

I believe it’s a Bassy Bear, Mariss said with a grin.

Sebastian shook his head. Where did they get an idea like that?

From me, Juliet said without regret. It’s what we call you behind your back. She winked. I think it’s adorable.

Where will I put it?

We’ll figure something out. Mama’s already here. Her voice dropped to a whisper. Dad gets in this evening.

Sebastian kissed her, unable to resist the pull of her lips. Let’s go say hello, then.

The new wing was to the back. Mariss and the children had lobbied hard for a pool, but in the end, Sebastian thought it would be best, and safer, to add an extra wing. He never said it, but should something happen to his properties like happened before the accident, he wanted to have a place that he, Mariss, and the children could come. The property had twenty-four hour surveillance and a guard. There would be no repeat of the last time.

You’re thinking too hard, Mariss whispered in his ear. She flicked her tongue against his earlobe. Let me distract you.

Mariss pulled him into a small water closet off the main hall and locked the door. Her nimble fingers unfastened his belt while her lips played on his neck.

Why don’t we go to the game room? Juliet said out in the hall. After a moment, she knocked twice.

All clear, Mariss said.

Unfortunately, you’re going to have to be quiet, May, he growled in her ear.

Mariss’ laugh was soft and breathy. I’m sure you’ll make it very difficult for me.

He slid his hand up her thigh and under her dress to cup her hip. Mariss spread her legs for him and he positioned himself between them.

I’ve wanted you all morning, he said.

Make love to me, Bassy.

Yes, ma’am.

Sebastian slid into her slow, savoring the slick heat she bared for him. He pressed his lips into the curve of her neck to keep from groaning too loud.

With other women he’d have gotten bored the moment she gave him what he wanted. Mariss had fought him hard. He’d fought back and in the end, every moment he spent with her sent him spiraling deeper and deeper into love with her. Something he’d never imaged would be for him.

Mariss wrapped her legs around his hips. She braced her hands on the lavatory counter for leverage and met him stroke for stroke. It drove Sebastian harder, deeper.

God, Bassy, she breathed. Harder.

Any harder and the whole house would know what they were up to, but he went harder. He leaned one hand on the counter and wrapped the other around her hips. The feel of her in his arms, her hips slamming against him, the way he fit perfectly between her legs, her mouth by his ear panting while she tried to muffle the moans. It was more than he could handle.

I won’t make it much longer, he said.

Mariss wrapped her arms around his neck. She buried her face in his shoulder and she groaned as she slammed her body even harder against him.

Come with me, she whispered.

They came together, bodies shaking, convulsing against each other.

I can’t get enough of you, he said into her hair.

God, I hope not. Mariss smiled at him, her eyes glazed and happy. Not ever.

What a way to greet your mother, he teased and tucked her hair behind her ear.

Not that Katrina didn’t know that they couldn’t keep their hands off of each other.

Mariss pressed her mouth to his and kissed him. It was a long kiss, deep and full of fire and passion.

Put the kids in their own room tonight, she said. I want to maul you after everyone goes to bed.

CHAPTER TWO

The Sound Funnel

Sebastian had spared no expense when it came to what he called the Family Wing. Mariss took in the decorations and decided he might have overdone it just a little. Thick green garland tied with red ribbon and holly branches swagged across the ceiling and hung down the corners. Wreaths hung on every window. But what caught her eye, what caught everyone’s eye, was the tree.

It reached all the way to the ten-foot ceiling. There wasn’t even room for an angel or a star on top. White lights twinkled like fireflies, and ornaments made by the children covered every inch of the tree.

Mariss swallowed down the pain and despair trying to claw its way from the place where she’d so successfully shut it up. Until last year. Physically she was recovered. She’d broken her leg in three places, but the only reminder was the surgery scars and a slight ache and limp when it rained or snowed. Sebastian was very good about rubbing it for her without her having to ask.

Sebastian and the children were her only light in the darkness. And yet, she couldn’t tell him how hard it was to keep that darkness at bay. She’d never struggled like this before. Not even after everything else she’d been through. Not after the attacks when she was a teenager or after Holden’s death or Holiss’s. Even now, looking at the tree, there was a grey haze over everything preventing her from being happy.

Light of my life, her mother said in German.

Mariss turned and smiled. If no one else saw how she struggled, her mother would. Katrina hugged her and kissed her cheek.

You’re having a hard time, she said quietly.

Mariss smiled, nodded, and replied, We’ll talk later. I need you to do me a favor.

Anything, Katrina said.

Don’t make me referee you and dad. Someone might get hurt. She didn’t say who that someone might be, there was no way to know. It wasn’t a threat, but a warning that her mother would understand. She was not in full control.

Katrina nodded, though her eyes were wary. I’ll behave.

Thank you. Mariss kissed her mother on the cheek.

She just needed to get through the holidays, these two weeks in the house with her parents under one roof and the darkness this time of year brought. Then she’d be okay. Say hello to the kids.

Katrina threw her arms open and called to Katy in German. The girl bounded into her arms and squealed.

Mariss turned a circle and looked over the room. Fennick slouched on the sofa with his phone in his hands. She wasn’t entirely sure who he was talking to, but she supposed he had friends in Germany that he stayed connected with.

Juliet stood by the tree with her own phone. Over the last year and a half she’d been running the operations in New York while Mariss got the offices in London setup. She was still working on getting everything staffed. A few of the girls had come over from the U.S. to work with her, but several of them had gone back after the first few months. Both offices needed staffing badly, so she was going to focus on that in the New Year.

Sebastian walked into the room from an adjoining door. His ferocious blue eyes landed on her. Mariss’ heart skipped a beat the way it did every time he looked at her. She smiled. Even though his own gaze was wary, trying to figure out just how much of her was present, he winked and crooked a finger at her to come join him.

Mariss smirked and followed him out of the room while everyone else was preoccupied. The doorway opened to a spiraling staircase. Mariss had to give it to him. Sebastian managed to make the annex look like it was an original part of the home. The wooden handrail was smooth under her hand. Sunlight streamed through the Tudor style windows that rose from the floor up to the second and third stories.

She caught a glimpse of Sebastian’s backside as he rounded the second story and went up to the third floor.

You know, she panted, with your eccentric, overindulgent personality, one would think you’d put an elevator in this place. Or, you know, just because of my hip.

Arthritis was something she had to deal with now, and while hers wasn’t the worst, it wasn’t pleasant.

Oh, stop whining, Sebastian called as she climbed up the third set of stairs to the third floor. You’re almost there.

She grinned. They’re going to wonder where we went.

Mariss jogged the last set of stairs to try and catch up, ignoring the slight ache in her hip and the way she panted. She needed to start working out or something if stairs could get her this winded.

Strong arms snatched her and her body was pressed against Sebastian’s solid, warm frame. His cinnamon scent filled her lungs and Mariss’ body melted completely as his lips pressed to hers.

I need you to make me a promise, he said as soon as she was breathless and panting against his lips.

Anything, she breathed.

If anything sets you off, you let me know.

She looked up into his concerned eyes. When he was worried for her they deepened from azure to royal blue.

Mariss, I mean it. I know having your parents together is hard and I know you’re struggling, so if you need anything you tell me. Or at the very least, tell your mother. Please. I want us all to have a good holiday.

Mariss threw her arms around his neck and kissed him. She pressed her tongue past his shocked lips and made damn sure that he was just as breathless as he made her.

There is one thing that helps. A lot.

Oh? He said. If Sebastian was given to stuttering, he probably would have in that moment.

Mariss slid her hand between them and cupped him through his pants, giving a little squeeze for good measure.

Jesus, he breathed. Again?

I’m aware that I might have been neglecting you a bit lately. But your little friend there tends to do the trick.

Mariss grinned wickedly. Sebastian blinked and shook his head. She was about to wrap her legs around his hips and demand that he take her to a room right that minute, but Katy had other plans.

Mama Mariss! the eight year old shouted from downstairs. Fenn won’t leave me alone!

Sebastian snorted, but it wasn’t entirely out of humor.

That is the one thing I miss about not having children. Being able to have sex whenever I want without interruptions.

Mariss laughed. She unwound herself from around him and stepped back to straighten her clothes and hair. I think that’s a common concern among parents.

Don’t lie, Fenn said.

I’m not lying! You’re being mean! Katy said.

There’s a sound funnel in the stairs, Mariss said

Sebastian nodded. I didn’t realize it until after everything was done. Wait here, he said, his eyes twinkling. I’ll send Juliet and Katy up.

Sebastian was jogging down the stairs before Mariss could question him. She watched him go. At the bottom, he looked up, winked, and grinned. She couldn’t help but smile back. She was just too in love with him.

Something dinged and a door slid open. Juliet and Katy stepped off of the elevator.

What a dweeb, Mariss said. He made me come up the stairs.

That man of yours was a bit suspicious when he sent us up here.

We were talking about sound funnels and then… Oh…

Piano music floated up from below, carried and amplified through the sound funnel. It was as if Sebastian was playing right next to them. He played a Christmas medley. Mariss stood at the banister looking down over the stairs, wishing she could see him from where she stood. There were tears in her eyes. She wiped them away, hating how emotional she was lately. The smallest things made her want to cry.

Well, that’s just amazing.

So pretty, Katy said. She took Mariss’ hand in hers and leaned her head against her hip. I like to hear him play the piano.

Me too. Mariss pulled Katy closer.

I didn’t even know he could, Britt said.

When Sebastian was done, they rode the elevator down. He was waiting when the doors opened.

Well? he asked, looking very self-aware and self-satisfied.

You’re telling me you didn’t do that on purpose? Mariss asked.

Sebastian shrugged. Maybe, maybe not. He scooped Katy up into his arms. Time for lunch.

Oh, thank God, Juliet said. I’m starving.

Good. I had a lot of food catered. Sebastian asked.

Where’s Mindy? Juliet asked as she joined their trek to the dining room.

She went home to visit her brother for Christmas, Sebastian answered. She’ll be back on New Year’s Eve.

Mariss gasped when she walked into the dining room. One long table set with fine China and enough food for an army stretched down the middle of the room. All around, wide, floor-to-ceiling windows let in as much light as possible.

You sure don’t know how to half-do anything, do you? Katrina asked in awe.

Surprisingly, not the first time I’ve been asked that. Sebastian set Katy down and she ran to a door and opened it. Children poured in. One of them, a boy a couple of years older than Katy lingered in the doorway. His name was Tony and he was Katy’s best friend in the whole world.

Not that surprising, Mariss said. All of this for lunch? I’m afraid to see what you have planned for dinner.

Sebastian’s grin was wicked and he winked.

Stop being gross, Juliet said.

Just because you’re single doesn’t mean we’re gross, Sebastian said.

Juliet grunted.

Put your phone away, Mariss said. No work right now.

Juliet shook her head and waved her phone in the air. Your dad. He’ll be here on time.

Mariss laughed. Oh, what a relief. I was worried he’d be early.

Sebastian directed them to seats and they all sat around the massive table. Ms. Rachel, the woman who ran The Home for Sebastian, said a quick prayer and everyone dug in.

Upon closer inspection, Mariss noticed that everything on the table was food that children would eat, but so would adults.

Who made the menu? she asked Sebastian quietly.

Rachel helped.

When was the last time I told you how beautiful you are? Mariss asked. On the inside. You don’t need me to tell you about the outside.

This is going to be the last time if you don’t stop being sappy and gross, Juliet said, leaning around Sebastian’s other side.

Mariss pressed her lips together. You’re beautiful too, Jules.

Shut up. I know.

As lunch progressed, Mariss watched everyone interact. Katy and Tony shoveled food into their mouths and leaned together, talking about everything from school to videogames.

On the other side of Juliet, Mariss’ mother talked to Ms. Rachel. Some of the children asked her questions about her accent. She explained to them that she was an alien from outer space and had come to take over the planet. Mariss almost choked on her water.

Mama, she said in German. You’ll give the kids nightmares.

No, I will not. They think it’s funny.

She shook her head. If only this could last. When her father got there her parents were going to make this a holiday to remember. She was sure of that.

As lunch wrapped up, the adults adjourned to the sitting room and the children ran off to play. Last year she’d been in the hospital at this time. They’d let her go on Christmas Day, but there were still months of physical therapy and just therapy to recover and deal with everything that had happened. Mariss wanted this Christmas to be a good one. She needed it, because she was sure her mind was ready to reject her. She wanted one more good memory before everything went dark.

CHAPTER THREE

The Colonel Returns

The Colonel was six and a half feet tall with broad shoulders. His biceps alone put Sebastian to shame. When he walked into The Home that evening after they’d eaten dinner, his large army duffle bag slung over his shoulder, Sebastian was glad he’d already met him a couple of times.

Sebastian, the Colonel said, offering his large hand to shake.

Sebastian took it, ignoring the extra squeeze the Colonel gave.

Colonel. It’s nice to see you again. Mariss and Katrina are in the living room. He motioned him straight through to the back and to the right.

Katy sat on Mariss lap flipping through a picture book. Katrina pointed to something on the page and said its name in German. Katy repeated it and giggled. When Sebastian and the Colonel walked in, Mariss looked up. The wide smile reserved only for her father brightened her eyes.

Daddy, Mariss said.

Katy scooted off of her lap and Mariss bounded across the room. The Colonel dropped his bag on the floor with a thump and swept Mariss into a hug that swiped her off of her feet. He swung her around in a circle.

Hey, Baby Girl.

When he set Mariss down and she stepped out of his embrace there were tears on her cheeks. The Colonel wiped them away.

What’s wrong, Mare Bear?

Sebastian pressed his lips together. He’d not heard Mare Bear yet.

I missed you.

Well, here I am.

Katrina said something in German. Sebastian felt the Colonel tense. His spine straightened and his head tipped up to look at Katrina with a fierce scowl. If she was bothered by it, she just smiled.

What did she say? the Colonel asked.

She said she’s glad that I have a good relationship with you.

He narrowed his eyes. That’s not what she said.

That’s exactly what she said.

She said, Fenn piped up from the corner, that she’s glad the two of you have a good relationship even though you and her do not get along. I believe she was sincere. The glow of his phone lit his face. He never looked up from the screen. Sebastian clenched his teeth to keep from saying something to him about it.

Mariss pressed her lips together and her eyes danced. Fenn, what did we agree about interpreting for me?

Don’t do it.

Alright, so don’t do it.

The Colonel looked from Mariss to Fen to Katrina. I’m really confused, but if she wasn’t cussing me out in German, fine. All I ask is that she does it in English.

Not in front of the children she won’t, Mariss said. Dad, get comfortable. Sebastian can take you up to your room so you can get rid of your bag.

But the Colonel wasn’t paying attention to Mariss anymore. He was looking over her shoulder. Sebastian watched Katrina come across the room and stand beside her daughter.

Merry Christmas, Aris, she said with a smile. I’m glad you could come. For her.

She patted his arm, her tiny hand like a child’s on his large bicep, and she walked out of the room.

What’s going on? the Colonel asked. Did she just curse me?

Oh, grow the fuck up! Mariss snapped.

The Colonel’s eyes widened. His jaw worked like he didn’t know what to do or say. Mariss turned away from him and went to sit primly on the sofa.

I’ll show you to your room if you’re ready, Sebastian said.

Colonel Aris Leary nodded, but he didn’t look away from his daughter. Sebastian led him up the stairs, forgoing the elevator. Sort of accidentally on purpose. At the third floor he took the Colonel to a room that he had positioned at the opposite end from Katrina’s room.

Is she alright? the Colonel asked at the door. Mariss. Be honest. She doesn’t ever talk to me like that unless…

She’s getting there, Sebastian said. She’s been through a lot. Everything that happened last year was a lot for her to handle, but she’s getting to alright. We all are. If I may be so bold, fighting with her mother isn’t going to help. Mrs. Red has promised to keep the arguments to a minimum. I would ask that you try to do the same. For Mariss.

Colonel Leary nodded. Right. I’ll do my best. That woman just gets under my skin.

Sebastian decided it might not be a good idea to point out that he’d done the antagonizing.

I made sure to save food for you. I didn’t know if you’d have eaten. There’s a plate for you in the kitchen.

The Colonel nodded. Thank you. I appreciate it. And I appreciate everything you’ve done for my daughter.

They shook hands again and Sebastian left him to go find Mariss. As luck would have it, she wasn’t too hard to find. She was still sitting where he’d left her, flipping through a book with Katy on the sofa in the living room.

May, he said softly, sitting next to her. Everything alright?

She nodded and smiled up at him. There was no hint of tension or annoyance, but she had gotten rather good at hiding it lately.

I’m fine. He just…pushes things until they explode. Mama promised to be good and she was doing exactly that. He just… Mariss shook her head. It went better than it usually does.

Sebastian tipped her chin up and kissed her. It was gentle and soft. Mariss’ eyes slid shut. He watched her cheeks flush to a delicate pink before her eyelids fluttered open again and she absolutely swooned. He hadn’t lost his touch.

What was that for? she breathed.

Because your lips are just so inviting.

Mariss snorted. I love it when you talk Bassy to me.

He grinned and was about to say something highly inappropriate.

You two are disgusting, Fenn said. Can I go see the other kids?

Mariss nodded. Go ahead. Take Katy with you. She’ll want to see Tony.

Tony, Katy said, drawing out the o. Mariss chuckled.

Go on, she said.

Sebastian watched them go. Is it a good idea for him to play with the other kids? He’s quite a bit older.

It’s fine. As long as he doesn’t turn all Bassy on them. She grinned.

Sebastian shook his head. Since everyone is here, I suppose we can get started.

Mariss’ eyebrow went up. It wasn’t very dramatic, as usual. He turned away so she wouldn’t see him grin and went to the piano. He had a Grand piano put in. It was sleek, black, and new. He sat and played through a few exercises to get accustomed to the fingering before he launched into a Christmas carol.

Mariss came and sat next to him. When he was a teenager he played the piano all the time, but he’d stopped once he hit college age. It came so easily to him that he’d gotten bored with it, just like he used to get bored with the women he dated. But now that Mariss was in his life, he found that there were several things that he loved to do again. Playing piano was one of them. The way she watched him, her eyes intent on his fingers as they moved across the keys, made him want to play for her all day long.

And he didn’t care who knew anymore. At one point, only Juliet, his mother, and Hellena knew he could play and he was fine with that. Now, anytime he saw a piano his fingers itched to play. It had been a long time since the urge was that strong.

By the time he’d made it through the third song, the soft din of lowered voices told Sebastian that everyone was in the room.

You’re the pied piper, Mariss chuckled.

He turned to smile at her, but the glimmer in her eyes took his breath away. He’d never imagined a woman would look at him dreamy in love. He was used to the looks of women who wanted one thing from him, the yearn and lust of what his reputation assured them they would get. But he was not used to the way Mariss looked at him. He didn’t deserve it, and yet here she was.

You surprise me, he said.

You surprise me, Sebastian Boa. You’re a better man than you realize. Now that you’ve called everyone together with your magical piano song, what will you do with them?

Magical?

She nodded. My parents are standing next to each other and my mother hasn’t started beating him to death yet.

Sebastian looked, and it was true. Katrina and Colonel Leary stood next to each other. Once they realized it they stepped away and put about a foot and a half between them. Mariss giggled.

Sebastian stood and pulled Mariss up beside him.

Since this is the first holiday Mariss and the children and I will spend together, and since you were all so helpful last year after the accident, I wanted to bring you all together to celebrate with us.

Mariss tucked her hand in his, and he went instantly warm. He gripped her hand, suddenly very aware that he could screw up and lose her at any moment. She was the best thing that had ever happened to him; her and the children. He didn’t want to lose any of them.

Not everyone is here yet. My mother and a few others will arrive in the morning, but tonight I wanted to show a little of my appreciation. So, under the tree there’s a gift for everyone except Juliet.

Aw. Hey now.

Sebastian shrugged. It is what it is. Katy, will you pass out the presents for me?

Katy squealed and skipped across the room to the tree.

When he looked at Mariss her head was tilted back and she looked up at him.

What? he asked. What is that look for?

Starting a new tradition?

Sebastian nodded. If you think I should.

I think everyone will be very disappointed if you don’t do this every year.

Mama Mariss, Katy said. She stood in front of Mariss with a small gift wrapped in shiny red paper and a red bow on top. This one is for you.

Mariss smiled and took the gift. Thank you, Katy.

The little girl skipped off to deliver more presents. Once every adult and child had a present in their hands, Sebastian directed them to open them.

Getting gifts for the children was easy. Ms. Rachel had given him a list for each of them. She’d also provided a list of things she needed and wanted for the home. Those things they would get tomorrow. But tonight, he wanted everyone to have something. While Mariss had been in the hospital, and even during her recovery, the children had come to see her. She’d always brightened and worked harder when they came. They were special to her and they were important to him.

The smiles and squeals of delight made him smile.

Oh, Bassy.

Hm, he hummed and smirked. That’s what I like to hear.

Mariss pulled a necklace out of the small box. The diamonds caught the light as she held it up.

The other one I gave you was lost in the accident. We found the chain, but that was it. So I had this one made to match Martha’s ring.

His eyes flicked down to the ring on her left hand, the one he’d given her after the accident to show just how much she meant to him. He took the necklace from her and clasped it around her neck. It had been made for her, but it looked like it was always meant to be there.

You should have saved this one for tomorrow, she said, fingering the diamonds.

Wait until you see what I got you for tomorrow.

Mariss blinked up at him in surprise.

Sebastian looked up in time to see Katrina come up to him and wrap her arms around his waist. She said something softly in German and looked up at him with watery eyes.

Sebastian smiled. No need for tears, Katrina. If you don’t like it I can get you something else. She swatted at him and he chuckled. I thought not.

You just can’t help yourself, can you? Mariss asked.

What do you mean?

You have to make every woman in a two mile radius pregnant with your swoon babies.

Sebastian laughed. What the hell is a swoon baby?

Mariss pointed at Ms. Rachel. She was looking at Sebastian with swoony eyes and flushed cheeks.

Swoon baby.

I still don’t get it.

Fenn shuffled up with his hands in his pockets. He took one out and offered it to Sebastian.

Thank you, he said in deeply accented English. I’ll try not to spend all of my time playing video games.

Sebastian shook his hand. I appreciate it. And I appreciate all of the help you’ve been with Katy this last year.

Fenn nodded, uncomfortable. He gave Mariss a hug.

Oh, honey, she said. Save it for when you get your gift tomorrow. She winked at the boy and he grinned, said something in German and scooted away.

I’m going to have to learn German if I have any hope of understanding him, aren’t I?

Mariss shrugged. It wouldn’t hurt. What’s next on your Christmas Eve agenda?

Hot cocoa and a movie. He paused. "Children like It’s a Wonderful Life, don’t they?"

Mariss shrugged. I don’t know, but teacher says every time a bell rings an angel gets its wings.

Sebastian caught her around the waist before she could walk away and pulled her in for a kiss. This one was deeper and more intense than the last, though he kept it PG in front of the children.

A couple of cheers and applause went up, as well as several groans and fake puking sounds from the children.

Hot cocoa and movies! Mariss said when they broke apart.

Sebastian resisted the urge to smack her ass as she walked away. He was already pushing it with all the kissing in front of her father. He didn’t think he would have brought his gun with him, or even been able to get it into the country, but he wasn’t one hundred percent positive.

CHAPTER FOUR

The Christmas Tree Fantasy

By the time the movie was over, the children who wanted to hang out with the adults had long since passed out. Katy lay across Mariss and Sebastian’s laps. Tony was passed out on the floor leaning against the sofa next to their legs. Fenn was off in the corner with one of the girls from The Home.

Most importantly, Mariss’ mother and father were on opposite sides of the room from each other. So far, they hadn’t gotten into it again. The peace wouldn’t last much longer, but at least they weren’t at each other’s throats.

How am I doing so far? Sebastian asked.

Well, for starters, you could have shared some of that gin you thought you were sneaking into your hot cocoa, she told him and tried to look stern. Greedy.

You saw that, did you?

I did. You did a good job of hiding it, but not from me. She winked. Other than that, you’re doing a wonderful job. You knocked the kids out. That’s a plus. It’s time for them to get in bed, though, or Santa won’t come.

Santa? Katy asked.

I knew you weren’t asleep, Mariss chuckled. Yeah, Santa won’t come if you’re not in bed.

Are you sure he’ll know where I am?

Mariss nodded. Of course! He’s Santa Clause!

But how will he know?

GPS, Sebastian chimed in. It tells him where you are. Time for bed, Katy Girl. Want me to carry you up?

Katy nodded and rubbed her eyes. Sebastian scooped her up and carried her to the stairs. He tapped Fenn’s foot as he passed him.

Time for bed, Fenn.

I’m practically an adult, Fenn protested.

But Taylor isn’t. Be an example, yeah?

Fenn huffed, but nodded. Mariss smiled to herself. Sebastian was doing better at being a father than he thought he was. While she didn’t want to have any more children of her own, raising Katy and Fenn and taking care of the children at The Home was more than she could have ever asked for.

When Holden and Holiss were killed, she never could have imagined that things would turn out the way they had. She was happy and she was madly in love with Sebastian. Sometimes she felt guilty for being okay and happy without Holden. She still wasn’t entirely sure what she’d seen during her accident. Sometimes she believed Holden had been there to keep her alive until Sebastian could come for her. Other times, she was sure she’d hallucinated him.

You’re doing well, my love, Katrina said as she came to sit next to her. He is a good man. I had my doubts, but he has proven me wrong.

I think it has a lot to do with the woman he’s with, Juliet said from the sofa across from them.

He always had it in him to be a good man, Mariss said. I just showed him that he did.

What else does that crazy man of yours have planned for tonight? Juliet asked.

Mariss shook her head. I have no idea, but he’s trying very, very hard, isn’t he?

Are you ladies talking about me? the Colonel asked. He leaned forward and looked at them sharply.

No, I believe they were talking about me, Sebastian said as he came back down the stairs.

How would you know? Juliet asked.

I just know. It’s a sixth sense.

Mariss snorted. "Please. All the conversations I have about you right under your nose and you’ve