Waiting to Risk It All

By Karen R. Curry

Quinn Sinclair was a pretty-boy, successful singer that was also a single father. His wife died and he was left to raise their two young children. After being alone and without for a couple of years, he felt something was missing. When he saw beautiful, sexy, and full-of-attitude Madison Silvers, he knew she was the one. The problem was Maddi felt she didnt deserve him due to the secrets of her past. Throw in her violent ex-husband, murder attempts, and Quinns disapproving mother, the couple would soon find out if they were Waiting To Risk It All for each other.

Doctor Alexx Cavanaugh, one of Maddis sister friends, was a Neonatal surgeon and happy with her life. She thought she was content until she met self-made billionaire Matthew McGuire. He asked her to marry him the day he met her! First, he had to convince her he wasnt a nut! He knew what he wanted and went after it. Add kidnapping and lying family members to their story and see if they were Waiting To Risk It All for each other also.

The two couples meet danger head on and survive to tell their stories. Will their love survive as well?

• Language: English
• Publisher: AuthorHouse
• Release date: Apr 28, 2017
• ISBN: 9781524688578

Book preview

~ALEXX~

Morning Charlie. Alexx greeted the barista at the coffee shop she stopped in each morning. "My usual, please.’

As she waited to pay for her order, she glanced around. A very attractive man standing in line behind her was smiling at her. She returned his smile and turned back around to pay for her coffee.

See you tomorrow Charlie, she said as she was leaving. As she walked down the sidewalk, the same good looking man from the coffee shop came up alongside her.

Good morning beautiful. His smile was the sexiest she had ever seen smile at her. Where have you been all of my life and what are you doing for the rest of your life? His voice had a sight Texas drawl to it.

She stopped walking and laughed. Does that line work for you usually? She asked.

I can’t say. He chuckled. I’ve never used it before. So, you tell me, is it working?

Not yet. She responded still laughing.

Allow me to introduce myself. He stuck his hand out. I’m Jake McGuire, Mac to my friends. And you would be?

My name is Alexandria Cavanaugh. She responded as she shook his hand. Alexx to my friends.

Will you have dinner with me tonight, and the next night, and the night after that for the rest of our lives? He asked as he tucked her arm in his. They started walking.

Whoa, big guy. She scoffed, I don’t know you, why would I go out with you?

That’s why we need to go out, so we can get to know each other. By the way, where are we walking? He asked.

I’m a doctor at Community General, right down the street.

"Okay, you can tell me your specialty at dinner tonight.

Persistent, huh? She smiled. I’ll tell you what, I admit I’m intrigued. Your approach is definitely different. I’ll meet you for dinner. What about Smitty’s over on Twelfth? Around seven?

Perfect, just like you. He replied dimples winking. I can’t wait.

Well, I’ll see you then. I need to go in now. She took her arm back and walked through the revolving doors of the hospital. Once inside, she turned and looking back at him smiled. He was standing there all dimples and sexiness.

She spoke to co-workers she passed, smiling and with a pep in her step.

What’s gotten into you? Christine her friend and surgical nurse asked walking next to her.

What? Alexx asked beaming.

Your smile is a mile wide. Christine responded. What do you have in that cup?

Alexx laughed. Just my usual hazelnut coffee, light cream no sugar.

Okay, spill it. Christine demanded. What has you so perky this morning?

I met a guy.

And? Christine prompted.

Christine, this man is gorgeous! His dimples look like someone scooped them out with a spoon. His eyes are hazel. His hair is brown, full and curly. He’s about six feet tall and lean. I’m sure he works out because his arms are solid. We’re meeting for dinner tonight.

Catch your breath girl! Christine laughed. He sounds amazing. What’s his name?

Laughing, Alexx replied. You can tell it’s been awhile, huh? His name is Jake McGuire.

Jake McGuire? The Jake McGuire? Christine grabbed Alexx’s arm and stopped her from walking. The man is rich. Not just rich, extremely rich. He developed some sort of technology and became a self-made billionaire. He’s also an attorney and has offices all over the world. He does a lot of charity work and I heard he has a ranch in Texas.

I did pick up a slight Texas drawl. Alexx started walking again. You say he’s rich? He looks rich.

Play your cards right and you could be Mrs. Jake McGuire. Christine gushed.

Slow your roll missy. Let’s see if we can get through dinner first. Alexx responded. What’s on our schedule today?

Christine immediately switched gears with her and gave Alexx a rundown of her schedule for the day. Christine was a couple years older than Alexx and always on her case to date more. She was glad to see her friend excited about meeting someone new. Christine had a healthy dating life, but no one special.

After Alexx walked into the hospital, Mac turned around as his office was in the opposite direction. His driver was still waiting for him in front of the coffee shop.

When he saw Alexx go into the coffee shop that morning, he had his driver stop. He’d never seen a woman as beautiful as this one and knew he had to meet her.

When he walked into the shop, he took in the long, wavy, black hair, her trim perfectly shaped body and her gorgeous face. Her eyes were so dark they looked purple with lashes that looked fake, but somehow, he knew were real. She was wearing grey slacks with a red blouse and red heels. Nothing flashy, but on her, a paper sack would look good.

When he got to his office, he had his secretary send the good doctor a dozen yellow roses along with a dozen red roses to be delivered to the hospital. He included his cell number with his message that he was looking forward to their date that night.

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The day seemed to fly by for Alexx. She was able to leave for home with time to spare. She took a long, hot soak to relax. She decided to wear a simple sleeveless black dress. The upper front and back were sheer, showing some cleavage and the skirt flared to the knee. Simple gold jewelry and black stilettos completed her outfit. She applied her makeup lightly. After one last look in the mirror, she headed out.

Settling into a cab, she found herself getting excited. She didn’t date often. She was a busy woman and what spare time she had was precious to her so she was very selective who she spent it with. On one hand, this man could be a nut. On the other hand, this could be the start of something good. Kat was always telling her to think outside the box. The box she built around herself for protection.

When she stepped out of the cab, he was there looking better than she remembered in a black suit with a red and white checked shirt and no tie.

I was hoping you wouldn’t stand me up. He said tucking her arm in his and leading her into the restaurant. Smitty’s was an upscale restaurant with outstanding food. Alexx was friends with the head chef. The place was decked out in black, silver and purple. There was always a jazz band playing and an elegant atmosphere.

As the hostess lead them to their table, she threw flirty looks at Mac. Alexx smiled at the woman thinking, ‘Look all you want chick, tonight he’s with me!’

Mac ordered champagne. The waiter poured them each a glass, then discreetly walked away.

So, tell me who is Alexandria Cavanaugh? He smiled across the table at her.

Well, let’s see. She started after taking a sip of her champagne. Alexx is pretty simple. She’s a pediatric surgeon that works a lot of hours. I have a small circle of friends on purpose. I am an only child and both my parents are deceased.

Mac reached across the table and held her hand. I’m sorry about your parents. I know how that feels. So, do you like kids?

I love the little people. She exclaimed with her face lit up. Tell me about you Mac. My nurse says you’re some rich guy that owns a lot and does a lot of charity work.

I’m comfortable. He laughed. I’m an attorney and a bit of a technology nerd. I like to give back so I’m involved in some charity work. I live a pretty quiet life and I’m hoping you can change that. He was still holding her hand and rubbing his thumb across her wrist.

They ordered their meals and settled into comfortable conversation. They talked, laughed, flirted and got to know each other some. When dinner was over, the head chef, Carl, came out to greet them.

Alexx! Mac! He exclaimed. I didn’t know you two knew each other. Brava! Kissing both of Alexx’s cheeks then shaking Mac’s hand. How long have you known each other?

We just met. Alexx responded. As a matter of fact, this is our first date.

Yes, it is. Mac added taking Alexx’s hand in his. But we’ll be sure to invite you to the wedding.

Ha! Carl laughed. Better yet, I will cater the wedding! How was dinner? Everything was good, yes?

Excellent. Mac responded. They chatted for a while until the chef was needed in the kitchen.

My driver is outside to take you home sweetheart. Mac said. We can continue talking on the ride.

As the car pulled up to Alexx’s condo, Mac turned to Alexx and grasping her chin, turned her towards him and kissed her gently on the lips. Marry me. He whispered. I want to spend the rest of my life with you.

Leaning back, she looked into his eyes. He looked so serious, but she knew he had to be joking. With a smile, she said, Okay.

Is tomorrow too soon? He asked.

Putting her hand on his chest, she pushed him back. You’re not serious? She said. We just met today.

I’ve never been more sure of anything in my life. He replied putting his hand over hers.

I’m not normally an impulsive guy, but I am decisive. I understand if you feel I’m rushing you. I can wait, but be warned, I’m used to getting what I want. I fell in love with you when I saw you walk into that coffee shop. I’ve never been there before today, but when I saw you walk in, I had Henry stop so I could meet you. I became more sure that you were the one for me as we walked to the hospital. I understand your hesitation, but I won’t change my mind.

I think you’re confusing love with lust. I feel attracted to you also, but that’s a physical reaction, not emotional. And certainly not love. She responded.

Smiling, he kissed her hand. I love you. I’ve never been in love before, and I’ve never felt what I’m feeling for you for another person. But I know what I’m feeling is love. I know I’ve laid a lot on you, so take your time and think it over. Can I see you again tomorrow?

I don’t know what to say. I know you’re not drunk and you don’t seem crazy. Are you serious?

Continuing to kiss her hands, he responded, Most definitely.

Are you on medication or suffering from some type of mental illness? She still couldn’t believe what he was saying.

Hardly. He laughed.

Why me? She asked.

Oh baby, not only are you beautiful, you’re smart, well informed, sexy, intriguing, honest, generous, kind, do you need me to continue?

I need to go in. She said feeling for the car door handle.

Mac got out to walk her to her door. Pulling her into his arms, he kissed her softly, then showered kisses on her face and neck.

Mac, are you for real? She whispered.

Definitely. You’ll see. He answered. I’m not going anywhere. I’m in this for the long haul and I’m willing to wait for you to catch up. In the meantime, I intend to woo you, pursue you, romance you, and convince you to fall in love with me. I’ll prove to you that I’m a good guy. What you see is what you’ll get. Sleep well my love. I’ll see you in the morning for coffee.

Goodnight. She responded.

After kissing her cheek, he walked back to his car. Once inside, she leaned against the door. Wow! This was the best and yet the strangest date she had ever had. This man had to be playing with her or nuts.

She got her laptop out to google him. He was everything Christine said he was. He also dated a lot! Good grief! There were pictures of him with a lot of women and these women were beautiful. She couldn’t compete with these women! She knew it was foolish, but she wanted to see if he really was serious. What would it be like to be loved by this man? She wanted to find out.

She called Hawk. If anyone would know about Mac, Hawk would.

Hey lady. Hawk said answering his phone. Is everything alright?

Yes, all is well. She smiled as she responded. Hawk was the self-appointed protector of all Kat’s girlfriends.

What can you tell me about Jake McGuire? I met him today and he seems a bit over the top!

Hawk laughed. Yeah, Mac is the ultimate everything. What do you want to know?

Let me start at the beginning. I met him coming out of the coffee shop I stop at each morning. He walked with me to work and flirted outrageously. I went to dinner with him tonight and he asked me to marry him! We just me this morning. Is the man nuts?

No, he’s not crazy. Although I’ve never heard of him asking someone he just me to marry him. As a matter of fact, I don’t think he’s ever asked anyone to marry him. Mac is one of the smartest men I know. He generous and kind. A real down to earth kind of person.

He says he fell in love with me as he watched me walk into the coffee shop. He followed me inside and stood in line smiling and staring at me.

Hawk laughed even harder.

Hawk! This isn’t funny. He could be some kind of nut. She exclaimed.

Oh baby, this is hilarious! Hawk responded.

So, he’s nuts, isn’t he? She asked sounding disappointed.

No, he’s not nuts baby. Mac is the type of man that knows what he wants and goes after it. Wow! He wants to marry you?

That’s what he said.

Then that’s what he means. And, why not? You’re a beautiful woman. You’re talented and smart. I don’t blame him.

So, what do I do?

Ride it out baby. You’ll discover if he means it or not pretty quickly I would think. The man’s filthy rich. He’s honest and trust worthy. If he says he loves you, I’m inclined to believe him. He’s been a client of mine for a long time and he’s always above board and honest. A straight shooter.

I don’t know him well enough to marry him. I don’t know him at all!

Take is slow. Go out with the man. Get to know him. He’s a good guy. I don’t think you’ll be sorry.

Okay.

Listen girl, I got you. I won’t steer you wrong and I won’t let anything happen to you. If you feel uncomfortable at any time, I’ll step in. Okay?

Thanks Hawk. I appreciate it.

Take it one day at a time and see where it goes. Love you girl.

I love you too. You’ve given me something to think on. Goodnight. She was going to take Hawk’s advice and see where this went. She went to sleep with Mac on her mind.

~MADDI~

Maddi was a nervous wreck all day. She was anxious about seeing Quinn that night. She discarded so many outfit choices before settling an off-white dress that left one shoulder bare. It came to just above her knee and she of course wore matching heels. Her jewelry was simple and silver, except for a large bangle bracelet. Her hair was in the usual spikes, and she took extra care with her makeup.

When her doorman called to announce Quinn’s arrival, her heart beat sped up.

Opening the door, she stood speechless. He had a large bouquet of flowers in his hand and a smile on his face. He wore black slacks, black collarless shirt and black jacket. This man is truly fine! She thought.

Hey baby. His husky voice broke through her trance.

Hey yourself. She smiled back. Come in. Are those for me? Let me put them in water and thank you.

You’re quite welcome. He responded handing her the flowers then following her as she walked to the kitchen for a vase. He couldn’t keep his eyes off of her. She was quite lovely.

After she arranged the flowers in the vase, she set them on the center island in her kitchen. When she turned, he was right there.

I need to make sure last night wasn’t a fluke. He said as he pulled her to him and attached his mouth to hers. He backed her up into the center island. After devouring her mouth, he pulled his mouth from hers. Leaning his forehead against hers, he breathed deeply.

Nope, not a fluke. He kissed her cheeks, her ears and moved to her neck. All the while she could feel his arousal against her.

Sorry to break this up, but I thought you promised me dinner? She asked softly.

I apologize baby. He backed up some. Give me a moment to get myself together. He kept his hands on her wrists.

You want to let me go? She asked with a smirk. I need to repair my lipstick.

Trust me, your lipstick is fine. He replied with a smile. "I’ve never had anyone take me from zero to ten so quickly before.

She walked into the powder room and stared at her image in the mirror. What in the world was happening? If they didn’t get out of this condo, they would end up in her bed. They needed to slow this down.

When she walked back into the living room, Quinn was looking at the photos on her fireplace mantel.

You’ve been friends with Kat a long time? He asked.

Yes I have. I used to model for her.

I can see that. He said looking at the very large portrait of Maddi in a long strapless white dress with a split up the front and a long white fur hanging off her arms that hung above the fireplace. Where can I get one of these?

I’ll see what I can do about that for you. Are you ready to go? She asked.

You could just give me the life size one standing in front of me. He started walking towards her.

Hold it! She spoke sternly narrowing her eyes at him. Do not come any closer to me. Walk to the door and open it.

Laughing, he did as he was told.

You do know eventually we are going to make love. And it’s going to be amazing. His husky voice was driving her crazy.

You aren’t allowed to touch me for the rest of the evening. She said grabbing her purse. And what makes you think I’ll have sex with you?

He grabbed her hand as she walked past him out the door. We won’t have sex baby. We’ll definitely make love. He looked into her eyes. And it will be amazing.

Closing her door, he pulled her to the elevator. They were silent during the ride in the elevator and the drive to the restaurant.

When they were seated at the restaurant, she was tense and uncomfortable, frowning as she looked at the menu. His security was near, but not overbearing.

Baby, for some reason, I’m really into you. You’re beautiful. I don’t just want you, I want to get to know you. I don’t want a one-night stand; I want a long term relationship with you. I loved my wife. We were married for ten years and the pain of losing her was the worst thing I have ever experienced. I haven’t been mildly interested in any woman since Anna’s death. I spend my time with my kids and doing my singing gigs. Fortunately, I made a name for myself when I was a lot younger so my career was already established when Anna got sick. She didn’t last long once she had our daughter. I found out later, she had been diagnosed before she had the baby, but kept it from me. I took time off to care for then mourn my wife as well as take care of my kids. My mom keeps them when I’m working. I don’t know what I’d do without her.

He took a deep breath. I’m telling you all this so you’ll know I’m serious and not taking this lightly.

Leaning towards her, he took her hand. What I’m feeling for you is nothing short of amazing.

You do like that word, don’t you? I need some time to take all of this in. She said softly. Can we order?

Sure, whatever you need. He signaled the waiter that they were ready to order.

They talked and laughed during dinner. He was very entertaining. Maddi laughed so hard when Quinn told her about the first time he met Hawk.

I don’t think the man smiles at all. Quinn laughed. But he is good at what he does. Which is how we can sit here without being bothered. His security team is the best. They keep the paparazzi away from me and my family.

So, did Hawk actually tell you to stay away from Kat? Maddi laughed.

Yeah, he did. Quinn laughed with her. Don’t even think of flirting with or singing to my wife. He did his best impression of Hawk growling.

Quinn ordered desert for them and another bottle of wine.

Hawk is the scariest man I have ever met. I can’t blame him for how he is about Kat though. Kat is the most beautiful woman I know. And you do have a reputation for making women swoon. You throw those intense brown/green eyes on a woman, then use that husky, sexy voice that make women throw their panties at you. Maddi teased.

First of all lady, Kat is not the most beautiful woman. That would be you. And B you think my voice is sexy? His face was lit up with excitement. So, it I threw my brown/green eyes on you, will you swoon? He stared at her, making his eyes larger than smaller.

That seems to be the general consensus anyway. She smiled at him. You don’t need me to tell you that you’re sexy and look good. You know that already. You make money on your voice and looks.

Ah, that’s where you’re wrong. I want to know you think I’m sexy and look good to you. No one else matters. I’m tired of women that are fans. I want a woman who doesn’t care who I am. Someone that’s not caught up in my wealth or my superstar status. I believe that’s you. You’re the one that will keep me grounded. You’d put me in check and not hesitate to tell me off. So, the eyes aren’t working their magic on you? Ready to go baby?

She gathered her purse and took his hand. He held her hand as they rode back to her home.

Are you going to invite me up? He asked.

Sure. She opened the door and got out.

He grabbed her arm as she walked towards her building. I know you’re strong and independent, but when you’re with me, please let me treat you like the queen you are. I’ll open the doors for you. Just let me.

I’m sorry. She responded. I’m just used to doing for myself.

When they got inside, she asked if he wanted beer or wine. He chose beer.

She slipped her shoes off and brought him a beer. She poured herself a glass of wine. Sitting on the sofa, she drew her legs up and turned towards him.

Listen, I’ll sleep with you, but I can’t be in a relationship with you. I don’t do relationships.

His eyes bore into hers and appeared to darken. What if I want more than that?

I don’t know that I have more than that to give. I can give you tonight. If you want that.

You know I do. He whispered leaning towards her to take possession of her lips.

Breaking the kiss, she stood and unzipped her dress, letting it fall to the floor. Wearing her off-white lacy panties with matching garter belt and bra, she straddled him with her knees against his hips. She reached behind him and took the band out of his hair, combing her fingers through his hair in awe at the soft texture.

You have gorgeous hair. She let his hair go and moved her fingers over his face. First his eyebrows, his nose,