Читать книгу The Australian Affairs Collection - Margaret Way - Страница 83

CHAPTER FOURTEEN

ETHAN HAD THE table set when Alina arrived in the dining area, calm and guarded. She quickly sat down without speaking, not giving him the chance to be polite. He understood her reticence, hoped she’d still feel able to talk about her family.

She flicked a glance at him as he put a mug of peach tea in front of her. A delicate rosy hue coloured her skin. Where was the feistiness she’d shown in the past?

He felt her gaze follow him as he took his seat, grabbed his favourite cereal and filled his bowl.

‘That was cowardly of me.’

Subdued tone. Why was she so nervous? Waiting for her to elucidate, he prayed her confession hadn’t caused a regression in their growing relationship.

‘When I woke up in your bed I bolted like a naive teenager.’

He nodded. ‘A natural reaction after your revelations, Alina.’

She filled her bowl with fruity nut muesli, kept her head down while she ate, as if mulling over an important issue.

‘Was there a woman in your life when I came?’

He spluttered on his coffee. Hell, she kept finding new ways to surprise him.

‘There hasn’t been anyone for a long time. I swear there will be no one as long as you are with me.’

Her nod was barely perceptible. She swallowed as she averted her gaze, reinforcing her apprehension. Hidden under the table, her left hand would be performing its ritual dance.

‘Do... Do you expect... Want me to move into your room after the wedding?’

She completely took his breath away with that one. His jaw dropped; adrenaline zapped through his veins. He’d been trying to work out how to introduce the topic gently; she’d come right out with it. He leant back, studying her, wondering if she realised how courageous and strong she was.

‘Alina Fletcher, you are amazing. I’ve bulldozed you into agreements you’d rather run a mile from. My actions have rekindled harrowing memories you’d prefer were left buried. Yet you offer compromises which will reinforce our child’s parentage.’

Her eyes widened as he spoke. The soft blush he’d begun to anticipate and adore tinged her cheeks. Across the table was too far a distance. Pushing his chair away, he walked around it, took her hand and lifted her to her feet. Cupped her cheek.

‘Having you in my arms as I fell asleep felt better than anything I can remember. As if protecting you and our baby gives my life true meaning for the first time. I’d like to feel that way every night, but the choice is yours, Alina. Now, after we’re married or never. I want you there only if it’s where you want to be.’

She placed her hand over his heart, her lips curling into a sweet smile and a warm glow flickering in her eyes.

‘It felt nice.’ She glanced away, breathed in, then met his eyes again. ‘Can we talk about Colin’s aunt and uncle? Jean and Ray?’

Any subject was fine by him. Every conversation revealed a little more of who they were and brought them closer. He settled her back into her seat.

Alina gathered the thoughts that had tumbled through her mind as she’d showered and dressed. Looking into Ethan’s sympathetic eyes, she suddenly found it easy.

‘They were the ones who held it all together for me after... Well, you know. They and the solicitor arranged everything—cleared the house and sold it, put everything in storage.’

She stopped, turned her head to stare at the floor. Looked at him again.

‘They took me in and cared for me, even though they were grieving too. I owed them so much and I ran. Fled the country. I phoned or wrote occasionally, and sent postcards of the places I visited. Yesterday she was so welcoming...refused to let me feel guilty.’

‘Because she understands. You needed time and distance to heal. I’d like to meet them. And I think you’d like them to be at our wedding.’

‘Yes, very much.’

‘After we’ve eaten, ring and see if they’re home today.

* * *

Unlucky to see the bride before the wedding? Yeah, right—that had really worked for her before.

Sophia James had probably insisted that Louise follow tradition. And Alina hadn’t been able to deny Jean’s request after she’d been so supportive, even promising to keep the wedding a secret.

Ethan had won Jean and Ray over with his charm and sincerity, convincing them that Alina was the only woman he’d ever wanted to marry. Jean truly believed he loved her. Only Alina knew he wanted to ensure the baby’s right to his name.

After a teasing protest he had agreed to let Alina and Jean spend two nights in the hotel suite in order to shop and prepare. His compromise had been being allowed to have a short time alone with Alina the night before the ceremony.

He’d sat beside her in the lounge, took her hand and pressed his lips to her knuckles.

‘Everything had to be arranged so quickly we didn’t follow many of the usual traditions. This one I can make right.’

Before she could speak he stunned her by dropping to one knee without relinquishing his hold.

‘Alina Fletcher, will you marry me tomorrow? Be my wife for as long as you feel you can?’

Her heart lurched at the hitch in his voice on the second question. Her eyes misted; her throat choked up. She looked into sincere cobalt eyes and her answer came easily.

‘Yes, I’ll marry you, Ethan.’ She refused to think about the time limit right now.

He pulled a flat black box engraved with a familiar jeweller’s name from his jacket. The exquisite amethyst pendant was a flawless match for her engagement ring. Another thoughtful gift she wasn’t sure she deserved.

She stared wide-eyed at this man who’d so drastically changed her life, pushed and cajoled her in matters he deemed important, eased off and given her freedom in others. Like where she slept. Knowing she was attracted to him, yet still unsure of herself, she hadn’t slept with him again. As promised, he hadn’t mentioned it.

Over the last two weeks they’d slipped into an easy friendship she wanted to maintain though it was inexplicably frustrating sometimes. Hormones again?

‘It’s lovely, Ethan. Why...?’

‘Because I wanted to.’

His lips covered hers in a long tender kiss. She slid the box onto the couch, leant in and wound her arms around his neck. Somehow she ended up in his lap on the floor, wishing he could stay.

When he left his whispered, ‘I’ll miss you...’ was as tender as his kiss.

* * *

The wedding party was waiting for them in the roof garden. She had no reason to stall. Her hair shone with new highlights, its longer length framing her face and curling on her neck. The make-up applied by a beautician was light and perfect. Her long chiffon dress, shimmering with shades of lilac and silver, fell softly over her burgeoning bump. Her new necklace completed the illusion.

This wasn’t the shy girl in a white princess gown who had trembled with eager anticipation eleven years ago. The woman staring at her today was a mature stranger, fulfilling a vow to friends. No wildly beating heart. No dreams of eternal love. Strip off the trappings and tonight’s ceremony was just a formal recognition of the decision Ethan had made to remedy a family dilemma.

Everything changed the moment she stepped out of the elevator. He was watching for her, impeccably dressed in a dark suit, white shirt and dark blue tie, his brilliant cobalt gaze immediately zoning in on hers. A dashing knight waiting for his princess.

Her feet refused to move forward. Sensations cascaded through her brain, impossible to separate. Except for the one certainty she’d clung to since consenting to his scheme—her trust in this man, and her absolute belief that he’d never hurt or betray her.

Her palms began to sweat as they gripped her orchid and fern bouquet. Her insides melted in a rush of heat while her heartbeat crashed into a rock ’n’ roll drum rhythm.

A gentle nudge came from behind her. ‘He’s waiting for you, Alina.’

Not any more. He strode forward, eyes gleaming, his radiant smile just for her. Taking her hands, he drew her to him, the rough timbre of his voice revealing his emotion. ‘Exquisite. Unforgettable.’

Through misty eyes she was vaguely aware of Jean moving past her to join the others, glimpsed a photographer beside the celebrant. The city noises faded until there was only Ethan holding her, surrounded by a neon-enhanced darkening blue sky.

His lips touched hers lightly, reverently. In an instant her mind cleared. Her reservations dissipated. She kissed him back, standing on tiptoe for deeper contact. The tremor that shook his body echoed in hers. They walked together to the flower festooned arch where she relinquished her bouquet, allowing them to join hands as they stood face to face.

At this service the male response was calmer, clearer than the one so long ago. It ought to be impassive. Yet there was something in the resonance of his voice, in the pressure of his grasp and in the depths of his eyes that chipped at the barricades guarding her heart. She replied with the vows that would bind her to him in kind, without qualms or hesitation.

‘I pronounce you husband and wife.’

Not waiting for permission, Ethan kissed her with all the fervour of a loving groom. Hugs and kisses were exchanged, and after the certificates were signed they all moved to a small lamplit marquee.

The first toast was to the bride and groom, wishing them a long and happy life together. As they clinked glasses Ethan’s piercing eyes sent a message for her alone. His distinct, ‘To us!’ triggered a pleasurable shiver.

The celebrant left and then their entrées were served. The wine waiter refilled their glasses and moved discreetly away.

Ethan spoke next. ‘To those who will always be remembered, living on in our hearts.’ He held out his glass to Alina, dropped his gaze to her stomach and mouthed Louise and Leon. She reciprocated, touching her glass to his.

Then her husband—a phrase she’d believed she’d never think or say again—surprised her even more. His fingertips gently lifted her chin and his eyes darkened with intensity as he repeated the salute. Her eyes misted as she understood his generous gesture. For Colin, his parents and Michael.

The sweet liquid caught in her throat as she suddenly realised there’d been only a numbing sorrow as she’d thought their names. Had she come through the darkness, as Jean had suggested this morning? Not really. Ethan found it so easy to believe in our baby. Her maternal feelings had died on a dusky country road.

She was definitely appreciative of the delicious specially prepared courses, making a mental note to send a written thank-you to the chef and his staff. Everyone in the know had been loyal and discreet—a tribute to the man by her side.

* * *

Ethan fiddled with his new gold ring. The sun had set. Hot drinks and handmade chocolates had been served. He was married—something he hadn’t envisaged in his foreseeable future. If he ever had, he would have imagined his choice would be one of his peers—a successful woman with interests they’d share, who had no desire to procreate.

Circumstances and his code of honour had dictated otherwise. Yet to his amazement he felt satisfied, content, as if he’d found a unique treasure he hadn’t realised he’d been searching for. The vows he’d made to her were real. Her vows had been defined and strong.

As if sensing his attention, Alina turned to meet his gaze. When she smiled shyly contentment morphed into something earthier, lustier. He’d never had the urge to swing any other woman round and then drag her into a mind-blowing kiss. Never had an impulse to sneak away at a family function for a kiss and a cuddle—maybe more. Now he stared into enticing violet eyes and imagined it all happening.

Tonight there were no shutters; her wide-eyed open expression raised the hairs on his nape. Tingled his spine. Flipped his heart. Alina James. The name rolled sweetly off his tongue.

‘Well, Alina James, do I call for the car or do you want more dessert?’

‘I’m full. It was all so delicious.’

The tip of her tongue licked her lip, as if searching for a final taste, sending a fiery jolt to his groin.

* * *

They were alone apart from the limousine driver. Ethan wrapped his arms around his bride and kissed her, slow and deep. His body responded with a sharp tug, low in his gut. She tasted sweet—pavlova-sweet. He craved more. He craved pure Alina taste.

His wife. They were legally one. She...

He was doused in a cold shower of reality. He could do nothing that might remind Alina of her first wedding night. Nothing she might regret in the morning.

He settled back holding her close, murmured, ‘We’ll soon be home, Mrs James,’ into her ear.

Home. The word echoed in Alina’s head. Her home—for as long as she chose to stay. Ethan had given the impression he meant every word of his vows. Only she knew he didn’t.

‘Tired, sweetheart?’ The tenderness in his eyes melted her misgivings.

‘Just thinking. Thank you for making tonight so wonderful, even if it’s n—’

His mouth cut off the rest. Powerful and firm. Punishing. ‘It’s as real as any other,’ he grated, tilting her face, his flashing dark eyes boring into hers. ‘Don’t ever forget that.’

Her body chilled, as if she’d dived into icy water. She’d offended him—the last thing she’d intended. Tears prickled in her eyes as she struggled for words to put it right.

Suddenly she was crushed against him and kissed, with a thoroughness that left her body alive and burning.

He looked dazed when he broke away, bemused and aroused. She knew he’d see the same in her. Complete obliviousness to their surroundings.

Ethan’s fingers shook as they cradled her cheek. ‘Alina, darling...’ He trembled as he drank her in. His reaction when she’d denied their marriage was real had astounded him. He’d endeavoured to show her how valid it was to him. Succeeded spectacularly. With a kiss like none he’d ever known.

He struggled to draw air into empty lungs, fought to clear his brain. He’d been lost in a fantasy world where the only reality was the taste of Alina on his tongue and the softness of her in his arms. Heaven.

Her stunning eyes were dark and bewildered. His stomach twisted. Bewitched by her beauty, and by her response to his kisses, he’d allowed his own ardour to override the need for restraint. Only noisy revelry out on the street as the vehicle stopped had thrown him back to reality.

He leant his forehead on hers and sucked in air scented with spring and his wife. ‘I’m the one who’s apologising now. Not for the kiss. Never for the kiss as long as I live. Not for anything we’ve shared—especially tonight. I have no right to be angry when you’ve complied so willingly with everything I’ve asked of you.’

He helped her from the car, thanked the driver and hugged her to his side as they walked to the elevator, squeezed tighter as they flew upward. When the ping announced the opening of the doors he scooped her into his arms—ignoring her protests—and stepped out.

‘This is for me, sweetheart.’

Her pupils dilated, making her eyes even more alluring.

‘This will be my once in a lifetime.’

He jiggled her body onto his chest as he used his key card, pushed open the door, and covered her lips with his as he carried her over the threshold. She slid her arm around his neck, her fingertips curling into his hair.

After kicking the door shut he continued the kiss, slowly letting her slide down until her feet were on the floor. Clasping her hands, he stepped back, imprinting her into his memory.

‘Tonight was special in so many ways, but this is the memory I’ll keep for ever. You—so incredibly beautiful, so enticingly sweet.’

Alina watched his Adam’s apple bounce as he swallowed his emotion. She’d been right in thinking their relationship might change—wrong to believe that it was a bad thing. Hormones or not, she couldn’t deny she cared about Ethan James.

‘You made it special, Ethan. I was... Oh, I don’t know how to explain. Then you were there, and everything was right.’

‘And now I have to let you go to bed.’

She heard the desire in his voice, saw it in his eyes. For a second she wondered why she wasn’t pulling away and running. Then she gave her answer without any qualms.

‘I’m your wife.’

She felt his tension flow out, even though their hands were their only contact. Heat flared in his eyes, quickly softening to concern.

‘And much more than I deserve, Alina James. Turn around.’

He unclasped her necklace and trailed light kisses across her neck. Slipped his arms around her and drew her close, his breath teasing her earlobe.

‘Go to bed, darling. While I can still let you leave. Tonight I want no regrets.’

Her cheeks burned. She’d refused to think of that other first night, and yet he’d understood how it might come flooding back. She’d blatantly offered herself, denying the possible—probable—consequences.

Twisting to face him, she touched her fingertips to his lips. ‘I’m sorry, Ethan, I’m being selfish. I thought if you held me it wouldn’t—’

‘It still might. But I’ll hold you in whichever bed you choose. Tonight we’ll sleep. Tomorrow we’ll start our honeymoon.’

She raised up onto her toes and pressed her lips to his, kept it brief.

‘Thank you, Ethan.’

Her final thought as sleep overtook her was I’m Mrs Alina Paulette James...