One Week

By Dana Peters

Rick Adams had one goal in mind: to kill Jonathan Stern. What should have been an easy job quickly became complicated when he met Amy Hill.

Amy loves her job at the Inn. Working the always busy second shift, she relishes on the quiet, comfortable life she's made for herself outside the Inn.

Until the handsome, alluring Rick Adams checked in. Who knew that with a simple cup of coffee that she'd be drawn back so quickly into a world she'd hoped left far behind when she came to the Inn.

Rick wasn

• Language: English
• Publisher: Page Publishing, Inc.
• Release date: Oct 1, 2015
• ISBN: 9781682133019

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Dana Peters

One Week

Copyright © 2015 Dana Peters

All rights reserved

First Edition

PAGE PUBLISHING, INC.

New York, NY

First originally published by Page Publishing, Inc. 2015

ISBN 978-1-68213-300-2 (pbk)

ISBN 978-1-68213-301-9 (digital)

Printed in the United States of America

Table of Contents

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

To my dad, who always said I could do it, and to my friend, Jim, who taught me to focus so I could make this all come together. And to Malcolm Lloyd, my high school creative writing teacher, for steering me in the right direction. These are my own three wise men; and while, sadly, they didn’t live to see this happen, I know they’re watching. Thank you for your encouragement, support, and most of all, for having faith in me.MLB - St. Louis Cardinals vs. Pittsburgh Pirates Watch Live

Chapter 1

Climbing from the cab, Rick had his mind focused on his busy schedule ahead of him. He declined the bellman’s immediate offer to assist him with his luggage. A bland, unassuming smile crossing his face, his grip firm on the handle of his rolling suitcase, his computer bag slung over one shoulder, Rick quickly scanned his immediate surroundings. The mountains in the distance had him wishing just for a moment that he was there on vacation instead of on business. But a vacation was a luxury he couldn’t afford. Not now, maybe never. Pushing that thought away, he climbed the steps into the inn.

Standing patiently in line to check in, Rick idly studied the guests in line ahead of him. Businessmen for the most part, he quickly surmised, most likely there attending the conference that was boldly announced on the inn’s marquis. Hopefully since it was a Sunday, it’d be mostly corporate people at the inn and fewer families. That would certainly make his life a little easier.

The sound of children’s laughter coming down the opposite hall had Rick rolling his eyes. Figured. Heaven forbid anything in his life be easy!

Husky laughter intruded on his thoughts, and pausing, Rick’s gaze swept the lobby in search of the sound that had, for some inexplicable reason, caught his attention. Realizing it was coming from whoever was working the front desk, Rick found himself curious, an unusual feeling for him. Must be the mountain air was already getting to him, he thought, with a wry smile as he waited his turn in line.

Moments later, standing in front of the source of the laughter, Rick would later wonder if that moment was when his life had changed forever.

Her bright, friendly smile welcomed him, her husky laughter enticing him. But it was her eyes that captivated him now. Emerald green, they all but sparkled as she gazed up at him. He found himself surprisingly mesmerized by this young lady standing on the other side of the desk, welcoming him to the inn and checking him in with an efficiency he’d rarely experienced anywhere else. Something tickled his memory, but concentrating on what she was saying—instead of wondering how her dark brown hair, swept up in a simple bun, might feel sliding through his fingers—he lost the memory before he had a chance to grasp it. It’d come to him later, of that he was sure. Before he knew it he had his room key in his hand, and with a resounding It’s nice to have you with us, enjoy your stay, Mr. Adams, ringing in his ears, Rick headed toward the elevator, wishing again that it wasn’t business that had brought him here.

Quickly and efficiently unpacking, Rick contemplated his next move as he settled into his room. Feeling better after having splashed cold water on his face, he stepped out onto his balcony, letting his mind wander as he took in the fabulous view of the lake a few feet away. He blinked in surprise as his thoughts turned to the pretty green-eyed woman whose smile and easy laughter had managed to distract him as no other ever had. He couldn’t remember the last time someone had garnered this much of his attention. Not without a complete dossier anyway. He was going to have to talk to her again, he decided. Simple as that. Not one to allow for distractions, he knew he needed to dispel of this one as quickly as possible. How exactly, well, he guessed, that would depend on her.

Glancing at his watch, he frowned, realizing he probably wouldn’t have time to seek her out tonight, not if his business contact was on time. Minutes later his cell phone ringing had Rick pushing all other thoughts from his mind as he focused again on the job he was there to do. Not bothering to check the caller ID, confident he knew who was calling, he answered.

Punctual as always I see, Rick greeted his contact.

Always.

Let me tell you where we’re at, Rick began, skipping the usual niceties. Dropping into one of the deck chairs, propping his feet up on the balcony he figured, he might as well enjoy the view and the fresh air while he could. Because once his job got under way, there’d be little time for anything else.

An hour and a half later he ended the call. Having gone as expected, Rick let himself relax for a moment. During the course of the conversation the sun had dipped as dusk approached. A loon’s cry drifted across the water and Rick searched for the bird, easily spotting it farther out in the water. Closing his eyes, he listened as the bird sang out three more times. Such a solitary sound, Rick mused, much like his own life. Shaking off the melancholy feeling, he pushed out of his chair, deciding a good dinner would improve his mood. In doing his research before booking his room, he’d made sure the inn offered room service. In his line of work room service was often a necessity and, he readily admitted, one he thoroughly enjoyed.

Later, pleased with his decision, Rick relaxed again on his balcony. His steak dinner followed by strawberry shortcake had done much to improve his mood. Sipping his brandy he stared into the darkness now, the peacefulness of his surroundings working its magic on him. When was the last time he’d been this relaxed? He couldn’t remember. Unconsciously his thoughts turned back to the woman whose green eyes had captivated him as her laugh warmed him. Glancing at his watch he wondered if she might still be working.

What the hell, he muttered before swallowing the last of his brandy. Might as well check it out. And it’d give him a chance to scope out the inn again too. Nothing like a little multitasking.

Grabbing his room key and his cell phone, Rick had just closed the door behind him when he heard the phone ring inside. He paused, wondering who’d be calling him. He used his cell for everything, and unless information had leaked, only two people knew he was even at the inn. And they’d call his cell if they needed him.

They can leave a message, he decided, turning toward the bank of elevators, his pace leisure yet full of purpose.

***

She was gone. His hands shoved in his pockets, Rick strolled around the inn, surprised to find himself just a little down that he’d missed her. Familiarizing himself with the building, he located the ballroom where the conference would be held, noting the other smaller meeting rooms nearby that would also be in use. Leaning against the doorway into the ballroom, Rick’s eyes lazily drifted around the room, easily visualizing it set up for the large group. No, he concluded, this won’t do at all. There’d be too many people around; he wouldn’t be able to control the setting. But he wasn’t disappointed; he’d already ruled out the ballroom for the job he was there to do. But it didn’t hurt to check it out, just in case.

Satisfied with his reconnaissance, Rick headed back to his room. Casually pausing near the front desk, he scanned the area quickly, double-checking to make sure she wasn’t there. Having politely inquired earlier, he’d been told she’d left for the night; there was no need for him to doubt the information. Yet he found himself looking anyway. Shaking off his disappointment, he took the stairs instead of the elevator, easily jogging up the four flights.

Entering his room and switching on a light he immediately noticed the red light blinking on the telephone. Tossing his key on the bureau and, dialing the required extension to retrieve the message, he waited.

It was her. Despite the generic greeting, he detected the hint of laughter as she welcomed him to the inn, leaving basic directions in case he needed anything. He smiled. He needed something all right, but he doubted it was what she’d had in mind. Not questioning his reason why, he saved the message.

Still on German time, Rick decided he might as well get some work done while he was still wide awake. He knew the time change would catch him tomorrow. The more he could get done now, the better.

Pulling his computer from its bag, he slid out a separate folder, opening it while he waited as his computer booted up. Studying the attached five-by-seven photo, Rick set it aside, turning his attention to the dossier and the notes scribbled on the sides.

Mr. Jonathan Stern. A complex character, his years of selling corporate secrets had evidently finally caught up with him.

Going back and forth between the picture and the dossier, Rick scribbled his own notes. So far the job seemed fairly cut and dried. Stern had a consistent schedule, rarely altering from his daily activities during the business week. No family, no obvious personal ties, on paper the man clearly was a loner. Most likely in real life as well. A man who sold secrets as well as this man evidently had, would not likely surround himself with friends and family, largely in part because he wouldn’t trust anyone. And he’d need to have the freedom to pick up and move on a moment’s notice as well. Having a family or even just a woman in his life would make that nearly impossible.

Studying the picture again, Rick noted the beard that Stern wore. Absently stroking his own clean shaven face, his well-trained eye immediately picked up on the fact that Stern’s beard was a fake. Some men could carry off a beard, and some couldn’t. Stern clearly couldn’t.

According to his dossier, Stern was described as being clean shaven with a cleft in his chin that could easily rival that of Kirk Douglas. Now that was definitely a characteristic that Stern would want to keep under wraps as much as possible. But a cleft the size of the Grand Canyon wasn’t something that a beard could easily hide. Especially not a well-trimmed beard. Looking closer at the photo, Rick easily spotted the cleft. But given the man’s close-cut hairstyle, wide set eyes, and straight nose, Rick decided that going with a full, bushy beard would have been much worse.

Well, Rick thought, putting aside the picture again, in a few days it wouldn’t matter one way or another anyway.

His cell phone ringing interrupted his thoughts and glancing at the caller ID, Rick smiled as he answered.

Adams here.

Reading the file? The warm voice came through clearly despite being separated by an ocean.

What can I say, it makes for interesting late-night reading.

Anything to suggest it might be difficult?

Not a thing. Looks pretty straight forward.

Time line?

Right now it doesn’t even look like it’ll take the entire week. But I’ll know more tomorrow.

Excellent, she paused. When it’s finished, are you coming back?

You could come here, he countered quickly.

I could, she said carefully, but I think I’m going to stay put here a while longer. A little disappointed, Rick couldn’t say he was honestly surprised. It’s not like you need me there. Or do you? Her laughter drifted easily across the distance between them, reminding him suddenly of another woman’s husky laughter.

I always need you, Rick smiled and knew she was smiling back. Twins knew that about each other. But right now, for this job, I’m okay with you not being here. He picked up Stern’s picture, his eye immediately going to the cleft. Yeah, it was pretty fucking obvious. I’m still going over the dossier, and I’m meeting Jones tomorrow.

Jones will have everything you need?

He’d better. I gave him plenty of notice. I don’t see him having a problem with getting me what I need.

Good then, she said, pleased. So big brother, will you have time to see Mother and Dad while you’re there?

Not unless I get the urge to fly to California, dear.

What? Rick nearly laughed. I thought your job was in L.A.! When the hell did that change? And when were you going to tell me? Now Rick did laugh. It was so easy to rile his sister. Where the hell are you? She demanded.

I’ll tell you this much, Rick chuckled before turning serious, I’m about as far away from L.A. as I can be and still be in the U.S.

His cryptic answer was exactly what she’d come to expect from her twin brother. It was such answers that kept him alive. Kept both of them alive.

Okay then, riddle me this, she laughed. Couldn’t you have come up with a name a bit more exciting than ‘Adams’?

What? You don’t like it? I thought Rick Adams sounded kinda mysterious to me.

Boring is more like it. No one will ever remember it!

Which, my dear, is precisely the point.

Talking for a few more minutes, Rick ended the call with a simple see ya. Never one to be easy with endearments, he’d long ago acknowledged that his particular job didn’t allow him the luxury of expressing his true feelings. He too lived a solitary life. Mostly by choice, but still.

Would seem we have a bit in common there old man, Rick said, picking up Stern’s photo again. Then sliding it back into the folder he re-read the dossier one final time before turning to his computer to begin work in earnest. Outlining his plan using the most obscure language, Rick listed out his objectives, the ultimate goal, and finally his time line. This was what he enjoyed doing before calling it a night. Transferring everything from his cluttered mind to his computer allowed him the ability to fall asleep faster. He knew it was weird, but he didn’t give a shit. It worked for him.

He wondered briefly if Stern ever made lists, quickly shaking off the thought since soon it wouldn’t matter anyway. Because in less than a week Stern would be dead. And all the lists in the world weren’t going to change that.

Chapter 2

Leaning against the door to the front office manager’s office, Amy tossed her boss a tired smile. It was tough to tell which one of them was more tired.

I’m outta here, Elaine, Amy announced. Unless you need me for something else?

No, thanks, Elaine replied, glancing up from her pile of paperwork. She smiled a tired smile before turning to the TV monitors perched along the wall. Security camera’s strategically placed throughout the inn and around the grounds allowed Elaine to watch everything from her office. She focused now on the cameras covering the front desk and the lobby. Looks like things have quieted down out there, she commented.

Yes, finally, Amy nodded. Most of the corporate guys coming for the conference have checked in, a few others are due to arrive over the next few days. And I guess there’s quite a few locals attending as well. It’d be one of the largest conferences that had ever been held at the inn. Despite the work involved and number of guests attending, the staff was excited to welcome such a prestigious group.

Glancing at the monitor, Amy watched as a tall man strolled past the front desk, pausing for the briefest of moments before continuing.

Mr. Adams, Amy said, immediately recognizing the man. Elaine stared at her.

How could you know that? He’s not even looking at the camera! Elaine laughed. Leave it to you to recognize someone from their backside!

Shut up! Amy laughed. I could tell by his profile!

Sure you could, Elaine laughed, wondering if she’d ever get used to Amy’s impressive power of recognition, her amazing attention to detail and her excellent memory. It was rare that anything slipped by the woman. Elaine paused, catching the perplexed look that crossed Amy’s face. What is it?

Knowing Elaine would probably laugh at her, she took a chance.

There’s something about that man. He comes across as being as dull as they come, but I don’t think he is. Considering her next words, Amy plunged on. It’s like he doesn’t want to be noticed or remembered.

Oh my god, Amy! Not surprising, Elaine laughed. You’ve been watching too many police shows on TV! The guy isn’t a spy or anything! I’m sure he’s nothing more than your run-of–the-mill regular, and probably boring, corporate guy!

Knowing it had nothing to do with an overactive imagination, Amy let Elaine’s comment slide. No, there was something different about Mr. Adams. Amy knew it as well as she knew her own name. But explaining that to Elaine? What was the point? She couldn’t pinpoint exactly why she felt that way anyway but knew that without concrete proof it would be wiser to keep quiet.

Besides, Amy told herself, what did it matter? It mattered because she couldn’t get him out of her mind! For a man who wanted to be invisible, he’d certainly caught her attention!

You’re probably right, Amy conceded. I’m just tired. I have a date with a bubble bath. so I’m going home.

Lucky you, Elaine sighed. Enjoy. As Elaine turned back to her paperwork, Amy knew she’d been dismissed.

Thoughts of her bubble bath putting a bounce in her step, Amy almost made it past the lobby before she heard her name being called. So close yet so far! Retracing her steps to the front desk, Amy smiled at Mary.

Leaning on the desk, Mary motioned Amy closer. Not one to be so mysterious, Amy wondered what was on her friend’s mind.

Mr. Adams was asking for you! Mary whispered with a huge smile.

Speak of the devil.

Oh? While it wasn’t unusual for a guest to ask for her by name, this particular guest asking for her now, that just seemed a bit odd. Her eyes darted around the lobby, relieved to find it empty.

I told him you’d left for the night, but that you’d be back in tomorrow, Mary said with a frown. I hope I didn’t offer him too much information!

No, no, Amy quickly reassured Mary. That’s fine. So he didn’t need to see me tonight? She nearly sighed in relief when Mary shook her head. Thank you for the heads up, Mary. Can you shoot me an e-mail, reminding me to try and catch up with Mr. Adams tomorrow?

Right away, Mary said, almost laughing. Like Amy would forget? The woman didn’t forget anything!

Pushing away from the front desk, Amy wished Mary a good night, and making a beeline for the door, she tossed the doorman a quick smile before hurrying out to the parking lot. Sliding into her car, her last thoughts before the call of her bubble bath overtook her was that of the mysterious Mr. Adams. Active imagination or not, she knew there was more to the man than he wanted anyone to believe!

***

Immersed in her bubble bath, scented candles lining the shelf over her sunken tub cast flickering shadows around the room. Blowing at the bubbles, a sigh of utter contentment slipped from Amy as she slid lower into the tub. Nothing helped to clear her mind or relax her faster than a good bubble bath!

Except that tonight, while her body was relaxed, her mind kept churning. Damn that Mr. Adams! She couldn’t get him out of her head! How ironic, she thought, that a man who was trying so hard to be inconspicuous would stand out so much in her mind. It frustrated her, not being able to put her finger on what it was about the man that was nagging her.

Well, she sighed, blowing more bubbles, it’ll come to me eventually. And when it does. you’d better be ready, Mr. Adams!

Pushing aside thoughts of the mysterious Mr. Adams, Amy’s thoughts turned to the conference being held at the inn. Many high-powered players in the world of technology as well as finance would be attending, which meant that security in and around the inn would be tight. It didn’t matter that they were nestled in the mountains of New Hampshire; the subject of security was taken very seriously. Having hosted various groups with unique requirements, the inn had quickly become well known for not only being able to assure the guests their privacy but their safety as well.

Her father had been in charge of security for many government projects over the years, so Amy was well versed in the subject of security. And growing up traveling the world with her father, she’d witnessed firsthand the ramifications caused by such things as industrial espionage. Oh no, Amy thought, climbing from the now cooled bath, her imagination wasn’t active because of too much TV. She smile wryly, no, it came from real-life experiences. But she wasn’t about to tell anyone at work that. She laughed; they’d never believe her anyway!

Drying off and pulling on her pajamas and her bathrobe, she padded into the kitchen, pulling a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream from her freezer. Grabbing a spoon and learning against the counter, Amy attacked the ice cream as she thought about the many colorful people she’d met in her travels with her father.

She froze, suddenly thinking again about Mr. Adams. Oh my god, she thought, her spoon halfway to her mouth, had they met before? Was that why he was stuck in her mind now? Searching her memories, Amy still couldn’t place the man, but now at least she knew why: He’d changed his appearance!

Chapter 3

Wandering through the busy lobby Rick sipped his coffee as he casually scoped out the area. Knowing the woman whose green eyes had invaded his sleep wasn’t due in until later in the day, Rick found himself still looking for her. It didn’t hurt to check.

Dropping into a comfy chair beside the fireplace, the focal place of the lobby, Rick situated himself so that he had a clear view of not only the front desk but of the main entrance. Appearing completely relaxed, anyone who bothered giving him a second look would just assume he was another guest there on holiday. Only he knew otherwise, Rick thought, smiling into his coffee. Thank goodness he excelled in multitasking.

Isn’t this just heavenly? The feminine voice interrupting his thoughts, Rick turned to the woman dropping into the chair next to him. His eyes followed her mile- long legs as she crossed them gracefully. Never one to ignore a beautiful woman, especially one who spoke to him first, Rick smiled as his eyes rose. She’d caught him looking at her legs, had hoped he would notice her. How she loved it when a plan started to come together! Have you ever seen such a beautiful inn? She smiled innocently.

Not one for idle conversation, Rick wondered what her game was. Her innocent smile had been anything but. Sparkling diamonds cradled her simple gold wedding band as she lifted her coffee cup to her glossy lips. Probably looking for some on-the-side fun, he guessed, not interested in the least. He had more important things to do, and screwing around with a married woman was definitely not one of them.

Knowing she was waiting for an answer, Rick merely shook his head.

Me neither, the woman all but gushed, not in the least put off by Rick’s silence. She hadn’t expected an instant connection, but she was still hopeful. My husband’s attending the conference, and when I saw the pictures of here online and found out about their fantastic spa, I told him that I simply had to come with him this time! Talk about not being happy about that! She fought to keep her smile in place as she remembered her husband’s reaction to her announcement. Her bruised shoulder would cause questions, but she was ready with answers if necessary. So here we are!

Sure now that she was just looking for a playmate while hubby was in meetings, Rick considered taking his leave. But a group of men approaching caught his attention, and he wasn’t ready to give up his vantage point. Deciding to take out his conversation skills, he quickly dusted them off, figuring he’d take them for a spin.

Where are you visiting from? Rick frowned into his coffee cup. Did that sound as stupid to her as it did to him?

We’re from Washington, D.C, she promptly answered. Suddenly the question didn’t seem so stupid to him. She’d just said her husband was here for the conference. Stern had business associates in D.C. Could there be a connection? It was possible. He hadn’t finished identifying all the players associated with Stern yet. His gaze sharpening, Rick sat up a bit.

What does your husband do? Rick asked, keeping his tone neutral.

I’m a corporate attorney. Coming to stand beside the woman’s chair, the tall stocky man laid his hand on her shoulder, the gesture acutely possessive. Randall Jennings, the man said, extending his hand. Rising from his chair, Rick accepted the offered hand, appreciating the man’s firm handshake.

Rick Adams, nice to meet you. Shaking hands, Rick studied the man. The crew cut hairstyle and the ramrod straight posture hinted of a military background, while the perfectly tailored suit and the signet pinky ring screamed money. Piercing blue eyes spoke of knowledge and power. The guy was definitely someone important. And probably not just in his own mind. Rick nearly smiled, knowing the type well. He filed away the information for later when he had time to do more research on the guy.

Nice to meet you too, Mr. Adams, Randall Jennings said, disconcerted at finding he wasn’t able to size up Rick at all. And this is my wife, Priscilla.

Nodding to the woman Rick paused, catching her flinching under her husband’s hand, the movement so slight he almost wondered if he’d imagined it. But seeing her eyes flash with pain as her jaw clenched, Rick knew he’d seen right. His eyes rose slowly back to her husband.

Rick’s survival depended in part on him not drawing attention to himself. But violence against any woman was something Rick just would not tolerate. True, he didn’t know Priscilla, but he definitely knew her husband. Or at least he knew the type. Power and money didn’t give anyone the right to abuse another, Rick thought, struggling with the