Читать книгу Secrets of the Lotus - Michelle Garren Flye - Страница 8

Chapter 4

“Does this mean you’re going to take me up on my offer?”

Dan sat across from Josie at the finest table in one of the finest restaurants in New York, the type for which anyone not on the A-list had to make reservations months or possibly even years in advance. Of course, Josie knew those rules didn’t apply to Dan Mason. In fact, she didn’t think he’d even called ahead, yet when she’d walked into the restaurant with him a half hour before, the maitre d’ had shown them to a table without hesitation.

“What would make you think that?” She took a sip of wine.

“For one thing, you accepted my invitation to dinner. For another, you told your editor you weren’t sure what was going on between us.”

“And nearly lost my job. I think the only reason Lamar didn’t fire me outright was because your dad is one of his heroes.”

He sat back in his seat. “Yeah, Dad affected a lot of people that way.” He frowned at his glass. “Well, at least you’re here with me now.” He leaned across the table and took her hand. “I suppose it’s up to me to show you how charming I can be when I set my mind to it—”

“I’m well aware how charming you can be. That’s what got me into this mess.”

“—And how worthwhile it can all be when you’re my girlfriend.”

Josie looked up, startled. For a moment, she let herself dwell on the fantasy of being his girlfriend: the nice restaurants, the envious glances of women, the glamorous nights at the best functions. But her mind flashed back to the moment at the door of this exclusive restaurant when his hand had rested lightly on the small of her back. She felt a blush beginning and looked down quickly, a tiny, involuntary smile on her lips.

“Danny boy!” The bluff, British-accented voice made them both start. Josie looked up at a round red face topped with white hair. The face reminded her of an enormous tomato she’d seen at a roadside stand during the summer—slightly malformed and splotchy, she hadn’t trusted it enough to eat it, and she felt pretty much the same about the ugly man standing next to her table.

Dan didn’t look happy about the interruption. “Greg.” He acknowledged the other man with a curt nod, but Josie noticed he made no move to stand or shake his acquaintance’s hand.

“Aren’t you going to introduce me?” Greg’s gaze slid over Josie. “I heard you were looking to break another heart, Danny boy, but I had no idea the object of your affections was so enchanting.”

“Josie Stewart, Greg Morrow.” Dan made a brusque motion with one hand then turned to Josie, almost apologetically, to add, “Greg is a business associate.”

Realizing this particular business associate was one Dan would prefer she didn’t know and wondering why, Josie decided to test him. She rose, holding her hand out to Greg, who took it eagerly. “How nice to meet you, Mr. Morrow. I’ve heard your name many times over the past few years, of course, but it’s always good to make new friends.”

“And of course, I know all about New York Life’s lovely society reporter.” Morrow bowed over Josie’s hand in a passable imitation of a European manner.

She cleared her throat, shooting Dan, who had risen to his feet when she did, a quick look.

“I guess you hadn’t heard Josie recently took over the theater beat at New York Life.” Dan smoothly bridged the awkward pause and Josie appreciated his courteousness.

“Indeed?” Greg’s eyebrows shot up his forehead. “Well, I’m sure you’ll soon be the toast of the theater world, my dear. Ah, I see my party has arrived. Splendid to see you both.”

“Splendid,” Dan echoed with a hint of mockery, moving to hold Josie’s chair.

She watched until Greg Morrow was safely across the room then turned back to Dan. “You don’t like him.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

He took a sip of his wine, his eyes on hers. “Maybe we shouldn’t discuss business.”

“Sure. So why do you do business with someone you don’t like?”

He made an exasperated noise. “Didn’t we decide we shouldn’t discuss business?”

“You decided that. But maybe you shouldn’t be dating a reporter. Especially if you have secrets.”

“What makes you think I have secrets? And as far as I know, I’m not dating any reporters, am I?”

“You might as well be. You’ve made it clear you want to make this going-out-together thing a regular occurrence, haven’t you?” She paused. “And why would you duck my questions if you didn’t have secrets?”

He rolled his eyes. “Fine. I don’t like Greg Morrow because he’s a phony. He’s not even British.”

“And you do business with him because?”

“Because my father did. Good enough for you, Nancy Drew?” He smiled. “I’m sorry I snapped at you. Morrow affects me in a bad way.”

“That’s fine. Although from what I hear, Greg Morrow is a terrible gossip, so by tomorrow it’ll be common knowledge you’re dating a reporter.”

He gave her a surprised look then grinned. “You know more about him than you let on.”

“Of course I know about him.” She shook her head and laughed at him. “I was a society reporter for eight years. I’ve never met him, but I know his reputation. And I’m glad to know you don’t like him. He’s a snake.” She stopped smiling and leaned across the table. “I hope the food’s good here, because I can’t say much for the atmosphere.”

Dan glanced around the room and Josie realized until then he hadn’t noticed the furtive glances and whispers. “I see what you mean. You know, it’s only a matter of time before somebody else I don’t want to talk to comes over. You want to get out of here?”

“Very much.” Josie folded her napkin and laid it across her plate.

He rose and took her hand, and out of nowhere, the maitre d’ appeared. “Mr. Mason, your food should be ready shortly—”

“That’s fine.” Dan handed the man a folded bill. “Pack it up and send it down to my driver, would you? We’re going for a walk.”

“Of course, sir.” The maitre d’ bowed as they passed.

* * * *

“I actually hate eating out.” Dan shivered and stuck his hands deep into his pockets as they walked down the street, coats buttoned against the wind, scarves wrapped around their necks and the cold biting at every inch of exposed skin.

“I can’t imagine why.” Josie craned her neck and looked past the tops of the buildings to the sliver of night sky visible above. The night was clear, the wind low. She wished she could see the stars, but the city lights were too bright. She could just make out a crescent moon hovering above them.

Dan caught her as she stubbed her toe on an uneven bit of concrete. “Would you please look where you’re going? You’re making me nervous. You’re going to fall.”

“Sorry.” She returned her gaze to the walk in front of her, marveling that so many people were still awake and out at this time of the night. “Where are we going anyway?”

He stopped and looked around. The streets were lined with shops, restaurants and clubs. “You know, I’m not sure. I don’t usually leave a restaurant and go for a walk. I just wanted somewhere we could talk in peace.”

Josie giggled. “Come with me. I know a place.” She led the way around the corner to a small church nestled between two tall office buildings. Dan hesitated. “What’s the matter?” She shot him a teasing smile. “You aren’t afraid you’re going to be cast out, are you?”

“I guess if I’m going to be hit by the wrath of God, it might as well be now.” He shook his head and followed her in. He lowered his voice. “You should know it’s been at least five years since I’ve been inside a church.”

“That’s a shame,” she whispered. “They’re great places to think. I stop by here once or twice a month.”

The sanctuary was silent and empty. She led the way down the aisle to a pew near the back. Dan turned his head from side to side, looking at the flying buttresses and intricate stained glass windows. “The architecture is amazing. I actually wish I were a little more up on my Bible stories so I could identify who’s depicted in the stained glass.”

“They tell the story of creation.” She pointed. “See, each one is a day of the first week, all the way up to Adam and Eve.”

He was silent, staring at the final window of the first man and woman holding hands against a blissful green background. Josie followed his gaze, wondering if he was thinking, as she often did, that the artist had done an extraordinary job of depicting the loving look between the two.

“Earth to Dan.” She tugged his sleeve. “Now I’ve got you someplace where you might find it difficult to lie to me, you want to tell me exactly what it is you’re up to?”

“I’m not up to anything. Honestly.”

“Scouts’ honor?” Her voice was low but slightly mocking. “I’m sorry, but I find it difficult to believe.”

“You’re more jaded than I thought. It’s true, and you’re right. I wouldn’t be likely to lie to you in a place like this. I like you, Josie Stewart. You’re not like the other women I date. There’s something…fresh about you. I can’t quite put my finger on it. You’re beautiful, accomplished, talented. But I know plenty of women who are all those things and I can’t stand most of them. I want to have you around to hang out with. I want to be friends. If you like me, that is.”

Josie couldn’t figure out why she still questioned whether she liked him. He was handsome, pleasant, a little unpredictable and rich. He knew how to treat a woman, that was clear. Yes, she liked him. She liked the streak of independence in him that made him stand out from the other mannequins she saw on the streets of New York every day. He had a way of looking at her that lifted her spirits and made her think anything was possible.

But while she could admit she liked him, she didn’t trust him. She knew there was more to Dan’s offer of friendship than he let on. That aroused her reporter’s instincts, making her desire to follow through with the relationship if only to find out what he was planning.

Besides, she couldn’t really judge him if he was up to something, considering her own plans regarding her brother and Dan’s fortune.

“Yeah, I like you.” She hesitated, took in a breath as if to add something then let it out.

“What is it?”

“I… I could use a friend. A real friend. And if you’re being honest about being that friend, that’s great. But I just got out of a relationship. A really intense thing. I don’t want to jump back into another one. I’m kind of liking me alone right now, you know?”

“I can appreciate that.”

“Okay.”

“Friends?” Dan held out his right hand.

“Friends.” Josie let him twine his fingers through hers. She had an odd feeling their oath might not be as solemn or even as honest as some taken in the little church but at least it was made in the right location.

* * * *

“I think the food tasted better here.” Dan set his plate aside and smiled at her. “You don’t think about how much your surroundings affect your enjoyment of something as simple as food, do you?”

They sat cross-legged on the floor in the enormous living room of his luxury apartment, empty cartons in a jumble. When Josie, a little put off by the stuffy appearance of the formal dining room, had suggested a picnic, Dan had spread a blanket in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows and a maid had produced candles, china, silverware and crystal goblets. Within moments, they were sitting alone in his apartment, enjoying as nice a picnic as Josie had ever had. The maids’ efficiency reinforced Josie’s idea that Dan’s staff was used to him entertaining women.

“I don’t think it was the surroundings as much as the company.” Josie raised the glass to her lips and took a cautious sip. “But yes, some of those people could definitely give a person indigestion.”

He nodded, propping one arm on his knee and gazing out the window across the city. Taking the opportunity of silence, Josie leaned back against the couch, closing her eyes and wondering if now was the moment to bring up her plan, her actual reason for being here. Could she do it without hurting his pride?

She summoned her courage and opened her eyes to face him but lost her focus in surprise at finding his eyes locked on her face. Worse, he looked amused.

“What?” She wondered if she had a crumb or smear of hollandaise sauce on her chin.

“Nothing.” He looked like he was trying unsuccessfully to smother a smile.

“Seriously, what?” She sat up and brushed a hand nervously over her hair. “You can’t sit there grinning like an idiot and expect me not to want to know what you’re thinking.”

“If you must know, I was thinking this was the point in the date when I’d make my move. Normally, that is.”

“Really?” Josie reflected. Wine had relaxed her. If he were to make a move, how would she respond? If she were interested in him, that was. “I dunno. Shouldn’t you let the woman digest her food a bit more?”

“You think?” He scooted over to sit next to her. “You think if I took her hand—” His fingers closed over hers, causing a shock to course through her skin. “Kissed the inside of her wrist—” He raised her hand as if to kiss it but stopped short, his eyes twinkling at her as she caught her breath. “And maybe leaned in for a kiss, she would respond poorly?”

“You are an incurable flirt.” She snatched her hand away and hoped the flush she felt on her face didn’t show in the low light. “You can’t resist, can you? And how should I know? I guess it would depend on the girl.” She sighed. “I hate to say it because I’ve had a great time, but I’m tired and I think it’s time I got home.”

“You could stay. I could send someone to your apartment for clothes.”

“We’re not really dating, remember? Just friends?”

“I know.” He shrugged. “I’m not trying to get you to go to bed with me. I’m just not ready to let you go.”

“Dan—”

“Hush.” He shook his head. “I’m not forgetting who we are or why we’re here, Jo. I just want more time with you.”

A little jolted by his familiar use of the diminutive nickname, Josie wondered again what exactly Dan was up to. He wanted more time? Since when was that a problem for the most eligible bachelor of New York? Why would he want her to spend the night if he had no intention of breaking their pact of friendship?

Making a decision, she settled back against the couch again. “Tell me about your family.”

She felt him tense almost immediately. “What do you want to know?” He sounded as if it cost him a great deal of effort to speak casually.

“The usual. What were your parents like when you were growing up?”

Dan held her gaze for a long moment, long enough for her to wonder if she was in over her head with him. “My mother was a social butterfly. She’s never done anything useful in her life and she probably never will. My brother, sister and I were raised by a series of governesses while she skated off to spas or ski dates or whatever party happened to be going on in the Hamptons. As for my father, he ran the business. He ran the city. He left the running of the house to the servants. Most days he would walk in reading the newspaper, go to his study and make telephone calls until after we went to bed.”

“God. You give new meaning to ‘poor little rich kid.’” She paused, thinking. “The other night at your party, I sort of got the feeling you were close with your parents though.”

He frowned and ran his hand through his hair. “Why are we even discussing this? I don’t like talking about my family.” He stood and strode over to the window, his face stony in reflection. She noticed for the first time how muscular he was. He looked like a powerful man. From the back, without his normal friendly grin, he looked like someone who could cause a great deal of pain.

“I’m sorry.” She cleared her throat. “But hey, what can I say? I warned you about dating a reporter.”

“You did.” He half-turned, giving her a smile. “I’ll have Alan take you home.”

“I can call a cab.”

“Nonsense. I’d take you home myself but I have phone calls to make.”

Something had closed down in his attitude, Josie noticed. She also realized the offer to spend the night had evaporated. This was not the Dan she’d had a picnic with in his posh living room. This man was aloof, busy, and ready to get on with his business while sending her on hers.

After calling Alan, Dan walked her to the elevator. Still remote, he smiled and hugged her, but Josie noticed he didn’t mention when he might see her next.

She got into the car while Alan held the door. Unlike the more formal chauffeur’s costume he’d worn when he’d driven them to Senator Hill’s dinner, Alan was dressed in jeans and a baseball cap. He looked more approachable, but Josie still felt a little shy with Alan, wasn’t quite sure how to talk to him. She had a hard time looking at this tall young man as just a driver. Maybe it had to do with the way he and Dan treated each other with mutual respect, or maybe it was the way Alan acted, as if he were in control of every situation.

They drove in silence for a while. Josie stole glances at Alan in the rearview mirror and at one point caught his eye. “Early night, huh?” He raised his eyebrows at her reflection.

“Actually, it’s getting pretty late.” She glanced at her watch.

“You’re a real smart ass, aren’t you?” She heard a trace of admiration in his voice.

“On purpose, usually.” She smothered a sigh. “I think I pissed your boss off a bit though.”

“Dan?” Alan glanced sharply at her in the mirror. “I wouldn’t worry about it. I thought you guys were getting along pretty good tonight. I’ve never seen him leave a restaurant before the food even came to take a walk with a girl before.”

Josie fell silent for a minute. She wondered two things. First, could she trust Alan, and second, could she get any information from him? Finally, deciding he was worth the risk, she said, “I made the mistake of asking about his parents. It seemed harmless enough. I mean, the whole city knows about his childhood, right? It was sort of New York’s own Camelot, if I remember correctly. His dad the youngest mayor the city had ever had, his mom so pretty and the three kids. But I ask him to tell me about his parents and his childhood and he shuts down on me.”

Alan didn’t reply at first. After a moment’s silence, he said, “Miss Stewart—”

“Alan, please call me Josie.”

He shot her a look before continuing. “Fine. Josie. Dan could fire me for even talking to you, but I kind of like you, so fuck it.” He drew a deep breath. “Dan loves his parents. You saw that yourself the other night. But what they’ve become weighs pretty hard on him. It’s a lot to look after, and with his brother and sister not around, he has to do it all himself. Not that he minds. He figures it’s his duty as a son, but it’s still hard.”

She nodded. “That makes sense.”

“I’ve known him most of his adult life. Dan resents intrusions into his private life. You’ve already intruded in a pretty major way too.” He held up one hand and glanced in the rearview mirror as she opened her mouth to protest. “I know you didn’t mean to. I actually do believe that. But here you are.”

“Dan invited me to his apartment.”

“Yeah, you were invited, and maybe that’s part of the problem for Dan. He wants you in his life, but he’s not sure how much of it to trust you with.”

“In which case, the problem will take care of itself in time.” She shrugged. “As he gets to know me, he’ll figure it out.”

“I hope so.” He glanced in the mirror. “I sort of wonder why I find it easy to trust you.”

“Reckon I’m just trustworthy, huh?”

Alan grunted but she saw his lips curve into a smile as he looked back at the road.

* * * *

When he returned to the apartment, Alan went up to Dan’s study. He found his friend standing by the window drinking, his shirtsleeves rolled up to his elbows. “Thought you’d want to know I delivered Miss Stewart to her apartment, boss.”

“Thank you, Alan.” Dan didn’t turn.

“She was worried she’d upset you.”

Dan looked around sharply. “She said that?”

“In so many words. I covered for you. You still going ahead with this idea of yours?”

Dan took another sip of his drink. “It’ll work. I know you have your doubts, but she’s perfect.”

Alan nodded. “I can see where you’re coming from, Dan. And you couldn’t have picked a better woman than Josie. She seems like an absolute angel after some of the society bitches you’ve hung out with. But I think it’s dangerous being around a woman like her when you don’t want to fall in love.”

Dan stared at his friend in astonishment for a moment. “Josie?”

“Oh, yeah. She asked me to call her that. Sorry.”

Dan shook his head, unable to resist teasing his friend. “I’m starting to think I’m not the one who’s in danger of falling in love with her.”

Alan glared at him. “I’m trying to tell you to be careful. It’d be easy to lose track of what exactly you’re using her for, you know. I don’t want to see this whole thing blow up in your face.”

Dan nodded and turned to glare out at the city lights, his momentary light spirits dissipating. When he heard Alan leave, he threw back the last of his drink and tossed the glass carelessly onto his desk, leaving a trail of condensation on the sleek wood. He couldn’t help but feel Alan had a better grip on the situation than he did.