[English] ONE MORE DAY

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“But isn’t that what it’s like to model?”

Oops.

“Um, kind of. Luckily, I don’t do a lot of runway work.”

“I guess it’s different if it’s just you and the photographer, huh? Although, I could get over it if I had legs like yours.”

Ridley raised an eyebrow. “Considering how Trent looks at you, I'd say you're doing just fine. I only wish someone would look at me like that.”

“Well, you can stop wishing. Someone does look at you like that.” Marie stared at her until Ridley laughed.

“Stop. It’s not like that. Jackson and I are, well, we’re nothing actually. He’s amazing and I like him a lot but I don’t have any illusions about where this is going. He doesn’t want a long-term thing and I’m just passing through, anyway.”

“You don’t really think someone followed you here, do you?” Mara asked. Ridley had told her a little about the accident. There was something about Mara that made her extremely easy to talk to. Which was dangerous, in more ways than one.

“I don’t think so. The police are investigating, so the best thing I can do is stay out of the way and try to move on with my life. I’m sure that’s the real reason Jackson asked me to this event. I think he just wanted to take my mind off things.”

"Uh huh. Well, I’m glad he did because this gives you the perfect excuse to flaunt it in front of him a little. I’ve got five that says he swallows his tongue when he sees you wearing your glamour gear." Mara held out her hand.

“It’s not like he hasn’t seen me dressed up before, so I doubt he’ll be blown away. I'm sure he'll do what every other guy does. Stare at the boobs, stare at the legs and then once the blood goes back to his brain, he'll be over it. No big deal."

The other woman still held her hand out until Ridley shook it reluctantly. “This is ridiculous but it’s your money.”

Mara dug around in the black tote bag she’d brought and pulled out a pair of slinky black sandals. “He's not going to know what hit him.”

* * * * *

IT TOOK SEVERAL trips for her, Mara, and Matt to haul all the stuff she’d brought up to her room. She’d made a good call by asking for Raina’s help. It would have been ridiculous to go out and buy dressy clothes, shoes and handbags when Raina practically had a department store in her closet.

I hope Raina really doesn’t mind that I took all this stuff. Rather than waste time sorting through it all she’d figured it was easier to take a bunch with her. She could decide what she wanted to wear later.

Raina won’t mind you borrowing it. Especially since it’s for a cause she supports.

Ridley snorted, remembering her sister’s words. No, Raina definitely wouldn’t have any problem with her taking so much if it meant she was seducing Jackson. This was what her scheming sister had been hoping for the entire time!

“Okay, I think that’s the last of it.” Matt bounded down the stairs. “I thought Mara had a lot of crap. Girls are crazy. How many pairs of shoes does one person need?”

“Well, I figured it was better just to bring a bunch. You know, just in case.”

“In case of what? A shoe emergency?” Matt stepped back when she swiped at him. “Okay, okay. I know better than to question female logic. If you don’t need anything else, I have to meet Nick. He’s taking me to look at condos.”

“I’m pretty sure I’ve got it all.” She leaned out the open front door and waved at Mara. “Thanks again. I’ll call you tomorrow.”

She watched as they walked across the lawn and then stopped next to a car pulling in. Nick got out and exchanged a handshake with Matt before continuing toward the house.

Great. Just what I need right now.

Nick had hated her practically on sight. The last thing she needed was to see him while she was still all dolled up in her “Raina-wear”. He’d probably make fun of her or, better yet, accuse her of trying to seduce his brother. Although she had no defense against that claim if he did. She was definitely trying to seduce his brother. An evil grin pulled the edges of her lips as he walked up.

“So you’re dating my brother now? And you’re what? Moving in?” Nick charged up the steps and grabbed her by the arm.

“Hey, what are you doing?” Ridley tried to yank her arm from his grip but he tightened his hold until it almost hurt.

“I’m taking you in the house. You and I are going to have a talk.”

* * * * *

NICK HAD TRIED to stay out of it, he really had. He was on guard and Elliott was still searching for information. He’d thought they could be alert enough on Jackson’s behalf.

But when he’d driven up to his brother’s house and heard that Jackson was taking Raina on a date, the control he thought he’d mastered snapped.

He grabbed her by the arm, ignoring her gasp of outrage. She was a master at playing it up, pretending to feel things she really didn’t. No one knew that better than he did, yet he still relaxed his grip a bit as he dragged her across the threshold and into the house.

“I knew you were a bitch, but I didn’t think even you were that cold.”

He advanced on her, walking forward until she was backed up against the wall. She was tall for a woman but she still had to look up to meet his eyes. He stilled, surprised at the sheen of tears in her eyes. Raina didn’t cry. Ever. The impact was almost enough to make him back down.

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Almost, but not quite.

“Nick, what are you talking about? I don’t know what I did to make you hate me so much.”

He laughed cruelly. “You don’t know what you did?” He swore and then braced a hand on the wall above her head. “You don’t remember? Is that the game we’re going to play? We had the most amazing night, the hottest, wettest *** in every position we could bend ourselves into and you don’t remember?”

He clenched his fists, on the verge of turning and running out. He’d never raised a hand to a woman in his life, and never would, but damn if he didn’t want to just shake her until her teeth rattled. Or spank her. No, no spanking. Her soft curves beneath the palm of his hand would be more his undoing than hers.

“Nick, wait. You don’t understand—”

Still on edge from the visual image of her bent over, he slapped the wall above her head, the loud sound making her jump. He didn’t want to hear her excuses or whatever lies she’d prepared to explain what she was up to. She was using his brother to punish him and it had to stop.

“I know what you’re trying to do. You screwed with my head and I let you. But leave Jackson alone. I mean it.”

She watched him with wide, watchful eyes. The innocent look was just an act, he knew that but he couldn’t stop himself from reacting to it. His body saw her hurting and it strained to do whatever necessary to protect her.

Even though his mind knew that Raina needed protection about as much as a baby piranha.

“Stop ****ing with my brother’s head.” He leaned down until they were nose to nose and whispered, “We both know he’s not the one you really want.”

His eyes dropped to her lips and he thought, to hell with it.

Then he dragged her against him and covered her mouth with his.

CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

JACKSON SIGNED HIS approval on the video treatment Mac had handed him just that morning and slid it back into its envelope. They’d finally come up with an original concept for the video and now that he’d approved the budget, the project could proceed.

He’d taken work home with him, instead of staying at the office so he could enjoy a little more time with the boys.

And with Ridley.

More and more when he thought of family, his thoughts included her. If he didn’t see her for too long, he missed her. If she needed something, he wanted to help her get it. For someone who was determined not to sign up for commitment, he was teetering dangerously close to falling for her.

He could see it coming for him and was powerless to stop it.

Raised voices floated up the stairs. The loudest one sounded like his brother, Nick. He got up and walked to the top of the stairs. Ridley stood against the wall and holy hell, she looked amazing. When she’d told him about her undercover mission to get clothes from her house, he’d asked her to bring Matt along as well. Elliott already had bodyguards assigned to watch his house but he still wanted someone he knew personally to go with her. Plus, Matt had a pickup so they could get everything she needed in one trip.

Just then, Nick hit the wall with his fist.

“I know what you’re trying to do. You screwed with my head and I let you. But leave Jackson alone. I mean it. Stop ****ing with my brother’s head.”

Ridley looked afraid and Jackson’s fists clenched at his side. He knew Nick was just trying to protect him but this was taking things too far. He wouldn’t let his woman be threatened in their own home. He opened his mouth to yell out a warning.

Then Nick leaned down and kissed Ridley.

Kissed Ridley.

“What the hell is going on here?” Jackson barked.

Nick jumped back and ran his fingers roughly through his hair. “Jack, I can explain. I should have just told you from the beginning.”

Ridley stayed in her position by the wall, her hands over her mouth. When she looked up at him, two tears slid down her cheeks.

Jackson hadn’t moved from his position at the head of the stairs. He descended the stairs slowly, taking each step individually.

One. Two. Three. Four.

He counted the steps, holding the numbers in his head. Anything was better than the image of Ridley pressed against the wall, fear in her eyes. While his own brother…

He looked at Ridley directly. “Can you go in the family room for a minute, please? I need to talk to my brother alone.”

She nodded mutely, her hands still over her mouth. She edged past them, giving Nick a wary look as she passed. As soon as she was out of striking range, Jackson flew across the room and tackled Nick.

“What the hell?” Nick held up his arms to ward off the blows but more than a few connected because Jackson felt the satisfying crunch as his knuckles hit bone.

Ridley screamed in the background but he barely heard her. All he could see was Nick, pushing himself against Ridley. Touching her. Kissing her.

He growled and threw another punch at his brother’s head.

“Jack, stop!” Nick wasn’t even trying to fight back at this point, just trying to protect his face from the raining blows.

The front door banged against the wall and the next thing he knew, he was being hauled backward. Matt grabbed Jackson and pulled his arms behind him. He managed to get an arm free and lunged forward again, dragging Matt with him.

Nick reared back and fell into the entryway table. It fell to the floor with a resounding crash. Ridley jumped back as pieces of the wood went flying.

“Are you okay?” Jackson asked her. Everything in him stilled waiting for her answer. When she nodded shakily, his shoulders sagged. Matt used the opportunity to pull his arms behind him again, more securely this time. His hold felt like being encased in iron.

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“Hold on, man! Just wait a second,” Matt muttered.

“I’m not waiting for anything.” Jackson strained against Matt’s hold. He glared at Nick, who stood in the opposite corner, wiping the blood from the edge of his mouth.

“What the hell is your problem, Jack?” Nick stared at his bloody hand and then at him. “You’ll fight your own brother for her.” He glared at Ridley as he said it, making Jackson strain against Matt again.

Jackson couldn’t even hear what his brother was saying. He was practically frothing at the mouth, just the image of Nick with his hands on Ridley, all over Ridley, making him see red.

“Yes, I would. If you ever touch her again, I will break you.”

Matt looked at Nick. “I have no idea what just happened but it’s probably better if you go.”

“Fine.” Nick sent a scathing glance at Ridley.

Jackson lunged forward again and Matt cursed as one of his arms almost slipped free.

“Don’t even look at her. I can’t believe I almost listened to you. Just stay away from her!”

“I’m not Raina!”

Everyone stopped moving at Ridley’s shriek.

“God, please stop fighting. Don’t fight over me. Not when I’ve been lying to you all.”

Jackson broke away from Matt. “It’s okay, Ridley. I already told them your real name and about what happened.”

“You don’t understand. Raina Winters is my twin sister. She’s currently overseas on a modeling job.”

Ridley shook her head, tears spilling down her cheeks.

“I’ve been lying to you, too.”

* * * * *

RIDLEY ACCEPTED THE glass of water Mara handed her gratefully. Her insides felt as dry as a desert after all the tears she’d shed.

Nick stood in the corner with his arms crossed. “Okay, so run this by me again. You aren’t Raina. You’re her sister.”

Ridley nodded. “Yes. I’m so sorry I lied. I just didn’t know what else to do.”

Jackson hadn’t looked at her since she’d blurted out the news. He sat on the floor with his knees drawn up and his head resting back against the wall. Mara handed him a pack of frozen vegetables, which he rested on his right hand. She handed another pack to Nick. He pressed it against his cheek and then flinched.

Matt stood looking out the window. She could understand not wanting to get involved. This whole situation sounded like the plot of a movie. A bad one.

Mara took pity on her and sat next to her on the couch. “You were scared, so you decided to hide out at your sister’s house?”

“It seemed like the only option I had at the time. After the accident, weird things started happening. Things weren’t in the same place I left them. Finding my car doors open when I knew I’d locked them. The final straw was when my apartment was trashed. Raina’s the only family I have. I didn’t have anywhere else to go. Then when her security code didn’t work, I was so scared. That’s part of the reason I passed out.” She looked at her hands, willing herself not to start crying again.

“You really passed out? Before we found you on the ground?” Matt spoke up.

“Yes. I took a train and two buses to get here. I didn’t want to take a plane or anything. You can buy a bus ticket with cash. By the time I got here I was exhausted and had been living off of vending machine snacks and gas station food. When I couldn’t get in the house, it all just kind of caught up to me at once.”

Jackson sat up and looked at her for the first time. “So, you really were locked out? That wasn’t just a ploy to get us to help you?

“I had no idea anyone else was even outside. Except for the kids, of course. They wanted to know what I was doing in the pond.” She smiled at the memory.

“So, you actually were ill. You really were locked out. The only thing you lied about was—“

“My name.” She met his eyes. “When you called me Raina, I realized the easiest way to hide would be to literally become someone else for a while. Raina changed her name as soon as she started modeling. No one connects us since our names are different, and I never tell people what she does. She always said it was safer for me not to.”

“It’s actually a good plan.” Nick commented.

Shocked, she looked up. He was the last person she’d expected to defend her.

“Don’t look so surprised. I’m not saying it was right. I’m just saying I understand why you did it. You probably figured you wouldn’t be here long enough for anyone to have to know the truth.”

“Exactly. I didn’t count on any of this. I didn’t count on liking it here so much,” she admitted. She sneaked a glance at Jackson. He was staring at her. Unable to hold his gaze, she dropped her eyes back to her hands.

“Or on me attacking you like that. I am so sorry about that.” Nick hung his head sheepishly. “I’m sure you’ve guessed that your sister and I have a… complicated relationship.”

She grimaced. “Say no more.”

“What I don’t get is why didn’t you just tell me the other day?” Jackson stood and walked over to the couch. He sat next to her and grabbed her hand. “When you told me your real name you could have just told me all of it.”

“I was going to. But then you said—“

“How much I hate liars.” He pulled her into his arms. She exhaled and grabbed him around the middle. “I’m sorry I said that. I didn’t mean about things like this. I’m sorry I made you feel that you couldn’t tell me the truth. I seem to have a knack for saying the wrong thing around you. It’s like you bring out the worst in me.”

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There was a moment of silence and then they all started laughing. Nick held up his pack of frozen peas as if toasting them. “Wow, little brother. You really have lost your swag, haven’t you?”

Jackson winced and looked at Ridley apologetically. “You know what I mean.”

“I do. Besides, it’s my own fault. I should have just told you before. Raina is going to get quite a kick out of this when I tell her what happened.”

“So, she’s okay? Raina, I mean.” Nick didn’t meet her eyes.

“Yeah, she’s fine. The only reason she didn’t come back right away is because she’s doing a shoot for Sports Illustrated and I didn’t want her to miss it. It’s a big deal for her. Plus, I also wasn’t lying when I told you she was matchmaking. I think she was happy I was locked out and stuck here.”

“I am officially not mad at her anymore.” Jackson smirked and went to pick up the bag of peas he’d left melting on the floor.

Mara nudged her in the side. “And you officially owe me ten bucks.”

Ridley’s mind raced trying to figure out what Mara was talking about. Then she remembered their bet. “Oh geez. Well, you definitely won. But I thought you said five?”

“I did but I was only betting on you driving Jackson crazy. It looks like you got the two-for-one Alexander special.”

* * * * *

“I ALREADY GAVE Jackson the FBI surveillance photos on David Finemore. What more do you want?”

Nick pulled the phone away from his ear and regarded it with disbelief. This was Elliott? The most suspicious, cynical person he knew?

“I want you to do a full-scale background investigation on this guy. Not just what’s in the FBI file, but everything. I have no doubt that you’ll find things on your own that your FBI contact didn’t give you.”

Elliott sighed. “What are you hoping to find? We already know the guy’s a criminal.”

“Yes, but I want to know the details of what he’s done. And who helped him.”

“Oh, now I see. Come on, Nick. I already did a preliminary background check on her and she’s so clean she squeaks. Why are you trying to find a problem that doesn’t exist? Jackson really likes this girl. Leave it alone.”

Nick swiveled in his office chair until he was facing the window. After leaving Jackson’s house he hadn’t felt like going home so he’d decided to go back to the office. Sometimes he spent more time there than he spent at his condo anyway.

At twenty-seven he had more money than he’d ever imagined, could travel as he wished and had a list of women on speed dial who’d happily do anything he asked.

And none of them could stir him like the one woman he couldn’t have.

“We need to be thorough on this, Eli. Jackson’s not like us. He’s already been through so much.”

“I know. All right, I’ll take another look at Ridley, too. But I doubt it’ll be anything more interesting than a speeding ticket and a “most likely *****cceed” award in high school.”

“Thanks, bro. And one more thing?”

“What do you need?”

Nick thought long and hard about what he was about to do. It was difficult to be successful in business without developing a thick skin and stepping on more than a few toes. He’d been raised with a strict sense of honor and was careful not to make promises he couldn’t keep. But after months of uncertainty, he wasn’t any closer to a solution on his own. He was prepared to admit that he needed help.

“Another background check. This time on Raina Winters. The real one.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO

THE NEXT AFTERNOON, Ridley pulled into the first available space she could find in the underground parking garage of MacArthur Center Mall.

Katie had the kids so she’d decided it was high time she got out of the house. It had felt like high school all over again when she’d picked up the phone to invite Mara to lunch. She’d never been that outgoing, and after everything that had happened, she wouldn’t have been surprised if Mara wanted nothing to do with her. But in the end, Mara had seemed pleasantly surprised to hear from her again and more than happy to meet her at the mall during her lunch break.

Mara worked as an administrative assistant twenty minutes away in the city of Norfolk. She’d suggested that Ridley drive over and meet her since Norfolk had the closest shopping mall to New Haven anyway.

White-knuckling her way through traffic in an unfamiliar area wasn’t her idea of fun, especially while driving the ultra-expensive Audi coupe Jackson had insisted she take. It was a small triumph that she’d managed to get there without causing any accidents or getting any scratches on the paint. It had been incredibly kind of Jackson to offer her the use of his car in the first place.

They’d spent the prior night tiptoeing around each other. Even though he’d mentioned the industry party again, she doubted he really wanted to take her. He was just too polite to disinvite her. She sighed.

He was probably counting the days until she left.

She threw her purse over her shoulder carelessly and hopped out of the car. She made a note of which entrance her car was parked at and set off.

The smell of pizza, hamburgers and Chinese food hit her as soon as she entered the mall. Using her nose and a quick glance at the mall map, she was able to find the food court, where she was supposed to meet Mara, relatively quickly. Spotting Mara sitting alone at a Formica table in the center of the room, she hurried over and plopped down across from her. Her apology for being late died on her lips when she saw the look on Mara’s face.

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“Is everything all right? You look like you just lost your best friend.”

Mara shook her head at the comment, seeming to compose herself in seconds. “It’s nothing. I’m just ready to shop. Let’s check out the sales in the department stores first.”

Bouncing up with renewed vigor, Mara gathered her purse and gestured for Ridley to follow. Ridley got up slowly, unsure of how to respond to the sudden change in atmosphere.

Oh well, if she wants to tell me what’s wrong she will. If not, then maybe shopping will cheer her up.

Ignoring the calls of pushy salespeople hanging out of their shops, they headed straight for the department store closest to the food court. Known for having excellent sales, today was no exception. Signs proclaiming everything 30% off seemed to raise Mara’s spirits. She made a beeline for the lingerie department.

“So, I was a little surprised to get your call.” Mara flipped through a rack of skimpy negligees. “I figured we’d hauled over enough clothes to last you until the apocalypse.”

“I just felt like shopping. This has been a crazy week.”

“Tell me about it. Hanging out with the guys has never been this much fun!”

Ridley couldn’t resist smiling at the other woman’s antics.

“So, are you shopping for anything in particular? You need something else for your date with Jackson?” Mara asked.

Heat flooded Ridley’s cheeks again but she just shrugged. “It’s not a date. He just needs an escort for this dinner and I’m convenient. I already know what I’m going to wear. I just wanted to get out of the house.”

“Uh huh. Well, maybe if you take one of these home tonight being in the house won’t be so boring.” Mara held up a nightgown with the nipples cut out.

“Mara!” She glanced behind her. “Put that thing down.”

Mara winked. “Are you kidding? If you won’t get this, then I will.”

Ridley picked up a pair of panties from the display table next to her. She flipped them over to see the price tag and then whistled.

Mara looked up. “Oh, yeah I know. I hate those stupid boy shorts where half your ass cheek is hanging out.”

A girl browsing next to them giggled. “Glad I’m not the only one.”

“See! I’m just speaking the truth.” Mara declared.

Ridley shook her head and watched as Mara held up nightgown after nightgown, each skimpier than the last.

“I was actually talking about the price. I just can’t imagine paying so much for something that doesn’t cover anything and feels like a shoestring up your ass.”

She flipped through the rack in front of her, then crossed to a table display of panties. It wasn’t until she picked them up that she could see the gaping hole in the crotch.

“If you’re getting that crazy nightgown you might as well get these, too.” Ridley glanced over her shoulder but saw she was all alone. “Mara? Where did she…”

As she turned back around, she caught a flash of movement in the floor to ceiling mirror in front of her. A man two rows back staring right at her.

She whipped around. The man now had his back to her and was pawing through the rack of clothes in front of him. It’s just another clueless guy shopping for a present for his girlfriend. Even though she knew it was ridiculous, her heart was still banging against her ribs when Mara appeared from behind a rack of floor length silk gowns.

“These are so cute,” she said. “Not that I have enough cleavage for them but still.” When she saw Ridley standing in the middle of the aisle, still holding the black lace panties to her chest, she stopped in her tracks. “Are you okay?”

“Fine. I’m fine. Just seeing things, that’s all.” Ridley stuck the garment back on the table and followed Mara to the other side of the store. When she looked over her shoulder again, the man was still looking at the same rack of clothes. He turned then, and looked directly at her.

Her blood chilled.

“I think I need to get some air,” she whispered. Mara put down the nightgown she was holding immediately and followed her to the escalators.

“Ridley, you are being so weird. What’s going on?” Mara pushed past a young couple holding hands to keep up with her, muttering a quick “sorry” over her shoulder as they passed. “You look like you just saw a ghost.”

“I’m not sure what I saw. This guy was staring and it kind of gave me the creeps. Is there a middle-aged man with dark hair and a leather jacket following us? I don’t want to keep looking.”

As they stepped on to the escalator to go down to the first floor, Mara turned and leaned against the rail, looking around her casually. A second later, she turned and faced the front.

“Yeah, there is. He was by the jewelry counter.” She turned and looked again, then whipped around. “Um, he’s on the escalator behind us now. And I think he saw me looking. Who is that?”

Ridley gripped her hands together so tightly that she almost winced. “I have no idea. I don’t know what to do. What do we do?”

“At the bottom of the escalator, let’s go to the left through the formal wear. It’ll be easier for us to hide behind those racks. Then we can make our way back to the parking garage and get the hell out of here.”

* * * * *

THAT EVENING, JACKSON stood at the end of the staircase, shifting his feet impatiently.

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He glanced at his watch and wondered for the tenth time what was taking Ridley so long. A lot of women took hours to dress, but he wasn’t expecting Ridley to need that much time to get ready. She never seemed to bother much about hair or makeup, which was one of the things that Jackson liked best about her.

He hoped she wasn’t having second thoughts. She was probably still shaken after seeing him almost pound his brother into the ground. This night was supposed to be about wooing her. Showing her that he could give her more than just tangled sheets. Instead he’d done nothing lately but go ****man and call her a liar.

Nick appeared in the doorway of the kitchen. “Are you seriously standing there waiting for her? Have some pride, man.”

“Shut up, Nick.”

“Hey, free advice comes along with free babysitting.”

Jackson conceded the point with a nod. “Thank you. I wouldn’t have blamed you for saying no.”

“Whatever. I didn’t do it for you. I just didn’t want Mom to get a look at your knuckles and then give both of us a lecture.” Nick waved as he turned and went back to the kitchen.

Jackson flexed his fist, then winced as his sore knuckles protested the movement.

You should have known something was up with him.

They’d never encroached on each other’s territory before. If Jackson had shown even the slightest interest in a woman, Nick had respected that. He’d always done the same.

But none of those girls were Ridley.

He knew firsthand that she had the power to make a man lose his sense of reason. A trait she apparently shared with her twin.

It was still a bit of a shock to realize that his brother had been carrying on some kind of affair with Raina ever since he’d introduced them. As a favor to Jackson, she’d accompanied his brother to a charity event. He’d had no idea they’d seen each other after that night. His brother loved being single and had always considered settling down to be something you did when you were too old to do much else.

The sound of high-heeled shoes clicking on the hardwood floor drew his attention back to the staircase and his thoughts stopped in mid-course.

Ridley descended the stairs with her head held high despite the shy look in her eyes. Her long hair had been elaborately braided into an updo fit for a queen. She’d done something to her eyes to make them seem deeper and brighter at the same time. The silk bronze dress clung like a second skin, emphasizing her every curve. The gold fringe on the edge of the hem highlighted her long, copper-skinned legs and tiny ankles. Even her feet, delicately encased in matching heels with tiny straps that wove around her ankles in a crisscross pattern, seemed ***y to him.

Ridley stopped directly in front of him and smoothed her hands down the front of her dress.

“Do you like it? I had a hard time finding something that wasn’t too revealing. Raina is a lot more daring than I am.”

As an answer, he pulled her to him and lowered his head slowly, giving her time to refuse him. His kiss, while gentle, conveyed his desire as his lips tasted every inch of her mouth. She kissed him back enthusiastically, until he had to pull away to catch his breath.

“This is going to be a long night.” He pulled open the door and gestured for her to go out.

Ridley smiled knowingly and sashayed past him out into the night air.

“I was worried you didn’t want me to come with you tonight. After everything that happened.”

His BMW convertible was still in the driveway from when he’d gone out earlier. He opened the door for her and waited until she settled back into the leather before he closed the door and crossed to the driver’s side.

“I won’t deny it was a shock, but I understand why you did it. Now, we can start with a clean slate. I’m honored you’ve agreed to come with me. I was worried you wouldn’t want to go out with a Neanderthal who bloodies up his own brother.”

She winced. “I still feel awful. How is Nick?”

Jackson laughed. “He’s fine. He’ll never admit I actually hurt him.”

She covered her smile with her hand. “Right. Of course. Because that would mean admitting that his baby brother beat him up, right?” At his shrug, she let out a breath. “So, how was work today?”

“It was great but I don’t want to talk about work. Tonight, we’re just two people going on a date.” He winked at her and turned the music up.

“Okay, in that case what should we talk about?”

“How beautiful you look. I knew you would look good, but you are absolutely stunning. I’m going to have to keep you close by tonight. I’m not usually a jealous man but I think we’ve already seen that I lose my mind when other men get anywhere near you. It’s taking all of my control not to turn this car around and haul you upstairs.”

Ridley leaned over and trailed a hand over his thigh. Jackson’s hands tightened on the wheel and he swerved slightly as he misjudged a curve in the road.

“Not until after the party,” she whispered.

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

AFTER THAT, THEY rode to the restaurant in silence, each absorbed in their own thoughts.

She was really excited to spend an evening out. Hopefully, it would be the perfect distraction to keep her from thinking about her disastrous mall trip.

After they’d left the mall and she’d calmed down some, she realized how silly she’d been. It was probably some kind of post-traumatic thing. She’d run from Florida believing that someone was out to get her. Even though she now knew the Morenos had nothing to do with her case, she was still on edge, imagining things.

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The guy in the mall had probably just been staring at them trying to get the courage to ask one of them out. And she’d reacted like he’d been a serial killer or something.

There was no telling what Mara thought of her now.

“We’re here.”

Jackson brought the car to a smooth stop in front of a busy restaurant. Ridley craned her head and was shocked to see a cluster of what could only be photographers.

Jackson handed his keys to the valet and then jogged around to her side of the car. He opened her door for her and offered his hand. She took it, gratefully. As soon as she stepped out flashbulbs went off, blinding her temporarily. She put up a hand to shield her eyes.

Flashbulbs continued to pop as they hurried into the restaurant. There had only been a few photographers but they were as annoying as a crowd.

Several men in dark suits stood just inside the restaurant holding clipboards. Jackson turned to one of them and said “Jackson Alexander and guest.”

After he found Jackson’s name on his list, they were allowed to enter.

“This is nice. Thanks for inviting me.”

“Are you kidding? You’re doing me a huge favor by coming. I usually attend these alone and end up listening to some stuffed-suit executive from the label all night.”

“Don’t try to tell me you don’t have a date, usually. Because I won’t believe you.”

“It’s not that I can’t get a date. I’m just not willing to deal with what comes along with it. Namely, someone who just wants me to introduce her to other people.”

“Oh. Well, you definitely don’t have to worry about that with me.”

“Ah, here we are. Our table.” Jackson stopped at a round table and pulled out a chair. She sat gratefully. There were tiny place cards with his name on them in front of their seats. She looked around the table curiously, but didn’t recognize anyone. There was a redhead across from her with her hair teased up into some kind of eighties-style bouffant who looked slightly familiar, but everyone else at the table was much older.

“Hey, Jackson. Good of you to make it.” A man on Jackson’s left greeted him with a warm handshake.

“Of course, Scott. Allow me to introduce Ridley Wells.”

Ridley smiled politely as the man waved hello and introduced his wife, a bored-looking brunette who appeared to be about three decades younger than he was. The woman just nodded in her direction before flagging down a waiter to ask for more wine.

She leaned over to Jackson and whispered, “Wow, you weren’t kidding about these parties. I think she’s already drunk.”

“Now you see why I needed you to rescue me.”

The appetizers were brought before she could even look around. Somehow the restaurant wasn’t what she had expected. Although it was obviously classy, she didn’t feel at all out of place. Most of the people at their table seemed friendly enough, if a little self-absorbed. Not that she minded, because she definitely didn’t want to talk about her life.

“I’m really sorry about all that commotion outside. This part of Virginia is home to quite a few celebrities and some local photographers have started hanging out here trying to catch a glimpse of them.”

“Anyone I might have heard of?”

“We have a lot of people from the Hip-Hop and RB scene. Timbaland, The Neptunes, Missy Elliott.”

“Wow, I had no idea.”

“Since you’re so into jazz, you’re probably already aware that the late, great Ella Fitzgerald was also from this area. She was born in Newport News. Virginia has a rich musical history. Well, anyway. I know they’re just trying to make a living, but man are they annoying!”

“No apology is needed.” She smiled at him behind her hand. He seemed so nervous and she was sure a man like Jackson Alexander didn’t get nervous often. She was flattered that he was going *****ch lengths to show her a good time.

“So, how long have you been into jazz?” Jackson leaned back in his chair and studied her.

“Ever since I can remember. My mom used to play jazz albums every weekend while cleaning the house. It was usually Coltrane or Miles Davis on Saturdays and then she’d sing along with Ella Fitzgerald on Sundays while cooking dinner.” She smiled at the memory. “It was the only time she really seemed happy.”

“I’m sorry you didn’t get to see her happy more often. I can’t even imagine.”

“That’s because your parents are such happy people. Tell me about what it was like to grow up with three brothers.”

“Chaotic. We all had chores on the farm, of course. I was usually able to get out of mine if I was crafty enough.”

“So you were a charmer once. What happened?”

“I guess I deserved that.” He held up his wineglass. “Touché.”

She took a healthy sip of her own drink. “Just teasing.”

“My dad would always bring us along while fixing things or repairing fence. We always ate dinner together and then played outside until bedtime. After we got older, my parent’s cheered us on at our little league and basketball games. Even when I went away to college, they made a point to call every week and check on me. Until I dropped out, anyway.” He smiled sheepishly.

“Your parents sound really special, Jackson. I’m sure they’re very proud of all of their children.”

Dinner passed in comfortable silence. Both seemed at a loss for words and spent most of the meal staring into their wineglasses or admiring their surroundings. Usually she felt compelled to at least try to make polite conversation but with Jackson she felt free to just sit and enjoy her meal in peace. Jackson seemed to share her thoughts as he smiled at her over his wineglass.

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“Ladies and gentlemen. Thank you for attending the launch party of Shadowlight Records’ newest jazz artist, Simona Raye.”

Polite applause broke out around them and Ridley sat up in her seat. “Did he just say Simona Raye? I love her!”

Jackson leaned closer to speak directly into her ear. “You’ve heard of her?”

Ridley nodded. “I downloaded her single when it first came out and I’ve been waiting for the album to release. She reminds me of a cross between Ella Fitzgerald and Nina Simone.”

The announcer waited until the applause died down completely before continuing. “Ms. Raye got her start in the local theatre before she released her first single independently. It did so well that she was immediately picked up by Shadowlight Records. Her album will be released next week but tonight, she’ll be performing several songs from the album for you. Now without further ado, Ms. Simona Raye!”

Ridley jumped up along with everyone else in the room and clapped as a beautiful, dark haired woman took the stage.

“I’m glad you’re excited. Maybe this’ll get me some cool points to cross out all of the idiotic things I seem to do and say around you.” Jackson said.

“Consider the slate wiped clean.” Ridley replied and swayed to the music as the opening notes of the single she’d previously heard were played.

“Would you care to dance?”

Ridley’s head shot up. She wasn’t much of a dancer and she certainly wasn’t willing to risk embarrassing herself in front of all these people. However, Jackson grabbed her hand and led her out to the center of the dance floor where other couples swayed in time to the music. She stopped thinking at all as soon as he pulled her into his arms.

Simona Raye’s smooth voice flowed through the sound system and rolled over her in waves. It almost felt like she was floating with Jackson’s strong arms as her only anchor. Ignoring the little voice in her head warning her to be careful with her heart, she surrendered to the warmth seeping through her pores and curling sweetly through her veins. Jackson hummed softly along with the music. She felt so safe with him, swaying gently to the music, completely unaware of anyone else’s presence.

For just a little while it was their world and she didn’t want to let anything or anyone else in.

The song ending should have provoked her to return to her seat, as she had earlier resolved to, but Jackson wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled her closer so she could feel the swaying motion in his hips.

“You aren’t scared to get a little close are you?”

* * * * *

AN HOUR LATER, a band had taken over and Ms. Raye was circulating throughout the crowd. He didn’t work with jazz artists but since he knew Ridley would love it, he’d made a point to introduce himself so that Ridley could meet her.

He usually hated participating in the fake socializing that went on at these types of events but with Ridley by his side, it didn’t even faze him. As he pulled her against him for another slow dance, he felt a tap on his shoulder.

“Jackson? Hey, it’s good to see you!”

Jackson turned and froze when he saw who was behind him.

“Hey, Bill. I didn’t think you were on the jazz scene?”

It had been years since he’d seen Bill, but he still looked the same. The older man had been one of his biggest supporters when he was younger and one of the most vocal opponents when he’d decided to take his career in a new direction.

He smiled tightly when his old mentor turned to Ridley.

“Hello there. I’m Bill Witherspoon. I’m an old friend of Jackson’s from before he was a superstar. I knew him when he was just another kid with a guitar.”

Ridley laughed and shook his hand. “Nice to meet you. Ridley Wells.”

“I can see he still has excellent taste.” Bill laughed and slapped him on the back. “So, is there any truth to the rumor that you’re working on a solo project? You’ve heard the stuff on the charts lately. That golden voice of yours would be a welcome improvement.”

Jackson pasted a smile on his face. “No, that’s just a rumor.”

Ridley looked up at him, her eyes sparkling. “You sing, too? I didn’t know that.”

“Oh, yeah he sings. Has the kind of voice that makes me see dollar signs. I was two shakes away from signing him to a deal a few years back.”

Ridley raised her eyebrows. “A few years back?”

Jackson coughed. “Well, it was great seeing you, Bill. Tell your wife I said hi.”

Bill sobered slightly. “Of course. Take care of those adorable boys of yours. And I meant what I said. I know your label is under Shadowlight, and I don’t want to step on any toes, but Interlace Entertainment would ink a deal for you in a heartbeat if you ever decide to give a solo career another shot. That offer is always on the table.”

Jackson tugged on Ridley’s hand and steered them around the other couples on the floor. He was happy when the song changed to an upbeat number and more people crowded on to the dance floor.

Ridley put a soft hand on his cheek and he looked at her, startled. “Why didn’t you tell me you’re an artist, too?”

After a moment, he looked away. He’d never been shy. As the youngest of four brothers, he’d quickly learned how to command the attention of a room. He’d had to if he wanted any attention at all. But when Ridley looked at him, he felt like she could see everything, even the things he didn’t want her to see.

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“Because I’m not. I used to be but I let that dream go. I’m a composer and a producer. That’s more than enough for me.” Jackson held her close as they swayed to the music.

“I’d still love to hear you sing. I only wish I could sing or play an instrument.”

“I’ll teach you to play.”

“But you can’t teach me to sing,” she teased. “If I could sing I think I’d be doing it all the time. Around the house, in the shower. Just everywhere.”

“It’s not that big of a deal, Ridley. Just leave it alone.”

She cringed. “Sorry. I didn’t mean… Sorry.”

The song ended and everyone broke out into applause. He could feel Ridley’s eyes on him as they walked back to their table.

“Do you mind if we cut out a little early? I just needed to put in an appearance.” He pulled his valet ticket out of his pocket.

“Of course.” She collected her wrap and purse and trotted to keep up with him.

He could only hope he’d responded appropriately to everyone who spoke to him on the way out. Once the valet brought his car around, he helped Ridley into the passenger side and then handed the guy a bill.

“Thank you, sir!”

By the young man’s wide eyes, he’d probably over tipped by a lot but he didn’t even care. Looking for a smaller bill would have taken time. It was worth just about any price to get the hell out of there.

They rode in silence for a few minutes before Ridley said, “Thank you for inviting me tonight.”

Jackson stifled a bitter laugh. She was too polite to say what she was really thinking. She shouldn’t have been thanking him for treating her like that. It wasn’t her fault that he’d rather do almost anything than sing these days.

He was starting to understand why Matt had punched a hole in his wall. The anger inside him was an ugly, potent thing and it seemed more than happy to shred his insides in lieu of another escape route.

He sat up straighter and gripped the steering wheel tighter. It was raining lightly and he, of all people, knew how treacherous a little water on the roads could be.

“I’m sorry if I bit your head off back there. I just don’t like talking about it.”

Ridley shrugged. Jackson looked over at her. She continued to stare out the window at the passing scenery.

“Come on, Ridley. I said I was sorry. I’m admitting I was an ass.”

“I’m not angry with you,” she said finally. “I shouldn’t have asked. It’s none of my business.”

He cursed. The memories roiled around in his brain and he had a feeling they were on the verge of boiling over. It was probably best that they’d left early. It wasn’t Ridley’s fault that he was in a ****ty mood and he didn’t want to take it out on her any more than he already had.

He trusted her more than any other woman he’d been with since his wife’s death. He didn’t want to expose her to the very worst side of him there was. He didn’t ever want her to look at him with condemnation in her eyes.

“I gave up on my solo career when my wife died.”

He felt more than saw her turn. Even when he wasn’t looking at her, her eyes had the ability to splice his emotions down the middle. Right now, all he could feel was her pity. It was rolling off of her in waves.

“It’s fine. I didn’t tell you so you can feel sorry for me. I just want you to understand that it isn’t personal. ”

They rode the rest of the way home in silence.

CHAPTER TWENTY-FOUR

“SO, I GUESS I’ll see you in the morning.”

Ridley nodded sadly and turned down the hall to her room. She closed the door behind her and dropped her purse and wrap on the bed.

“So much for my perfect night.”

After kicking off her shoes and hanging her dress up, she unhooked her bra with a sigh of relief. She sifted throughout the array of clothes in the suitcase she’d brought from Raina’s house until she found a lacy, silk nightgown. If she was going to be depressed, at least she could wear something pretty.

It was tempting to just drop into the bed but she knew she’d pay the price if she didn’t remove her makeup. She walked into the bathroom and took her earrings and necklace off. Her reflection stared back at her. It was crazy that she could look fine when she felt like she’d been kicked in the gut. She pulled the pins out of her hair and massaged her scalp.

There was a knock on the door just as she was soaping her face. “Just a minute,” she called out.

She hurriedly rinsed and then dried her face with a hand towel. When she left the bathroom, Jackson was sitting on the bed.

“Hey. I thought you were going to bed.”

“I was but I’m not tired. Not even slightly.” He looked up at her and Ridley shivered at the pain in his eyes. “I can’t go to sleep with you thinking that I won’t talk about it because I don’t trust you. Especially when nothing could be further from the truth.”

“You don’t have to tell me anything.” She was suddenly exhausted. Tired of trying to figure out where she stood with him and tired of wondering if he felt anything for her beyond lust. “I just want to go to bed.”

He didn’t move, just sat staring at his hands. She was just about to tell him to get out when he finally spoke.

“My obsession with my music is the reason my wife is dead.”

Ridley gulped, suddenly sure that whatever he was going to tell her, she didn’t want to hear. “Jackson, don’t—”