Читать книгу Brides, Babies And Billionaires - Мишель Смарт, Rebecca Winters - Страница 53

CHAPTER SEVEN

HE TURNED HIS head towards her and his body stiffened. His jaw tightened, eyebrows arched and eyes widened, darkened. His lips curled as he did a slow, oh-so-slow scan from her flustered face to her feet. When he finally looked her in the eyes he wore a wide grin and his raspy voice dropped an octave.

‘Is this for my benefit?’

‘What? Oh.’ So focused on her speech, which she’d stuffed up anyway, she’d forgotten she was wearing the new green dress. At the time of purchase she’d hoped the scooped neckline, fitted waist then flared skirt to just above her knees would impress him. Seemed as if she’d succeeded big time.

‘You look too exquisite to be spoiling for a fight, Lauren Taylor. I like the dress. Colour suits you.’

‘I thought it...you’re trying to confuse me.’

He didn’t need to try. A look, a smile, a touch and her brain addled.

‘I truly don’t think I should be your partner at the dinner.’

The mug in his hand clanked as it hit the bench. In two strides he stood in front of her, a determined gleam in his eye. Close. As close as he’d been on the balcony. If he leant forward...

Blushing at her thoughts, she stepped back, out of range. Maybe not. He had long arms. The long, muscular arms she’d last night dreamt of encircling her as they danced to a Viennese waltz.

His lips firmed as her cheeks warmed.

‘Okay. We are going to talk this out now and then forget it.’

With surprising tenderness he took her arm and guided her to the chairs, settling her into one then placing her bag and raincoat on the floor. He sat opposite and didn’t say a word until she looked up at him.

‘I confirmed you’ll be my date when I called in to see my sister last night.’

There was an implacable edge in his tone. His eyes, now alert and locked with hers, were corporate mode. She tamped down her longing to surrender and mustered logical arguments.

‘You can phone her. I should never have agreed. I’ll get tongue-tied and embarrass you.’

‘No, I won’t. You’re beautiful, intelligent, and the Fords want you there. In fact it was Clair who subtly put the idea into my head.’

He thought she was beautiful? Clair had really liked her? Her heartbeat kicked up.

‘It’s a woman’s privilege to renege, of course, but then you’ll be the one who has to break the news to my sister and nephews.’

She lifted her chin and glared at him. He was teasing. The gleam in his eyes was back, more compelling than before, and his lips seemed tantalisingly fuller. It was a complete change from her interview meeting. Did he really believe she’d relent on that flimsy statement?

‘Why? You can stay with them another night so their parents can go out.’

‘No problem there. The camping trip they decided to have seeing they now had no commitments for the weekend might be. The boys were writing a packing list when I left and I’m not going to be the one to disappoint them.’

‘Oh.’ Her bubble burst. She broke eye contact, fighting not to hug her stomach to quell its churning as she squeezed her legs together to hide their trembling. She gulped when he leaned towards her, fingers linked between his knees.

‘You meet and deal with new people every day, Lauren. Your boss receives glowing reports about your interaction with others. How is this different?’

Because it’s not work, not technical. Not transient. She realised she’d linked her fingers and was grinding her palms against each other. Stopping the action, she drew in a deep breath.

‘Those are usually people who want my help. I fix the glitches and leave. And, yes, there are a few regular clients, and our rapport has built up over a number of visits. Not the same and mostly workers on my level.’

Matt held back the chuckle that threatened to erupt. She sounded so earnest, so desperate to have him believe she’d be a hindrance. So scared of putting herself in an unfamiliar environment.

‘Lauren, it’s just a roomful of couples wanting to have a good night out and raise money for charity. There’ll be set tables for dinner, then people tend to mix once the dancing starts.’

‘That’s another thing, the dancing. I’m not sure I can in company like that.’

‘Ah. Which worries you, traditional or modern? In the first I promise you won’t be pressured to join in. And my experience with modern is there are no rules, and the men with the least coordination seem to have the most fun. Especially after a few good wines.’

Her brow cleared, her stiff posture loosened. He was making headway. She knew about his father’s condition and financial deception. If either leaked out saving the company could become almost impossible. And he needed her to understand the evening wouldn’t be a prelude to a personal relationship.

‘You’re smart. You must know Dalton Corporation is in trouble. As things stand, your findings could tip us either way. I’ve been upfront with Duncan Ford and promised he’ll be kept informed of all proceedings. Thankfully he has faith in me.’

He reached out and unclasped her hands, covering them with his.

‘Please, Lauren. If it will make it easier to accept, treat the evening as an extension of your assignment.’

The gold specks in her darkening eyes were becoming more pronounced. They brightened and softened with her unconcealed changing emotions. He willed her to agree, his own responses heightened by the softness of her skin under his fingers, and the gentle blush on her cheeks. His pulse quickened, and every muscle felt taut as he willed her to agree.

She raised her chin, and her lips curled into a sweet smile.

‘You’ll come.’ If she still wavered, he’d go down on his knees. And pray no one came in while he was there.

‘Only so your sister can have her romantic evening.’

If punching the air wouldn’t have seemed patronising he’d have done it. He didn’t care about her motive, which he suspected she’d grasped at rather than admit she wanted to come.

‘Thank you, Lauren. I promise to give you a night you’ll never forget.’

She pulled her hands free and leaned away from him as if needing space and distance.

‘So what would you like me to do today?’

‘I know it’s not your field but Joanne says the day-to-day data is behind. I’ve got meetings this morning and later this afternoon, which should give me some idea of what repercussions I might be facing. Midday’s free so I’ve booked our table for one o’clock’

Shame flooded Lauren. He was fighting for the future of the company and its employees and she’d dumped her insecurities on him. He’d even allowed time to take her for lunch.

‘I’m sorry, Matt. I’ve been selfish, worrying about myself when you’ve got much bigger problems.’

He stood and held out his hand, his eyes sending a message that weakened every resolve she’d made, and every muscle in her body. Her legs threatened to buckle as she accepted his assistance to stand.

‘I’ll forgive you almost anything as long as you keep saying my name, Lauren.’

That would be breaking down another barrier between them, and she wasn’t sure how many were left. She smiled and stepped away.

‘I’d better go and find Joanne.’ Her head had demanded poise and self-control. Her voice had proved breathless and aroused.

* * *

Wind had blown the dark rain clouds away, bringing in their place white fluffy banks that drifted slowly across the now bright blue sky. The sun had dispelled the morning chill and raincoats could be left behind. The taxi dropped them off at the gates to the botanical gardens and they walked to the restaurant inside.

There were so many shades of green, so many different plants and flowers, all fresh and glistening from the showers. Ducks waddled over the lawns and birds swooped from tree to tree, their different calls mingling in the air. For Lauren it had become a magical spring day. Made doubly so by the sight of the shimmering white pavilion at the edge of a pond.

‘This is where we are eating?’ She drew them to a stop to drink in the image, and fumbled in her bag for her mobile to take a photo, though she knew she’d never forget.

‘Here, let me.’ Matt took it from her. ‘Turn around.’

She faced him, the building behind her, the breeze teasing her hair and her heart twisting while she smiled on his command. Twice for her camera then, to her surprise, twice more for his.

The interior was as pristine. White linen covered the tables and chairs, even extended to the serviettes. Silver cutlery, crystal glasses and a delicate floral centrepiece completed an impressive décor.

They were seated by one of the open arches overlooking the waterfall and pond featuring a reed-covered island and a family of colourful ducks. Matt declined wine, opting to share the water she’d asked for. As the waiter left with their orders she gazed round full circle in awe.

‘It’s so incredible. I can’t believe I never came here in all the years I lived in Adelaide. I have a vague recollection of the zoo so that must have been when I was young.’

‘You never came to the city on weekends or in the holidays with friends?’ As if that made her unique but not in a good way. ‘How old were you when you moved?’

‘No and thirteen. My family life revolved around my brothers’ sporting events. And before you judge, it wasn’t so bad.’

Why was she defending what she’d always decried? Unless she was beginning to understand her own personality’s part in it all? She sipped water from the delicate glass and smiled. If she had visited the gardens, it would have been in a plastic bottle on the benches outside.

Matt stretched across the table, stroking her hand with his long fingers.

‘Believe me, Lauren, I never make judgements on anyone’s family. The reason you’re here is proof you can never tell what happens behind closed doors.’

Nausea gripped his stomach as he recalled the moment she’d shown him evidence of his father’s duplicity. The secret deals and bank accounts, even the location of a large amount of cash. Preparation for what, a new life with another woman? A suspicion he’d keep to himself as long as he lived.

He gazed into hazel eyes, and found warmth and understanding. Something tight around his heart shifted and softened unexpectedly.

‘How do you explain nearly five years of lies and deceit, Lauren? What the hell was he planning?’

‘Will he even remember?’

‘I have no idea how much is real or how much he’s been faking, and I’m praying I can keep the truth from my mother. She’s defended his behaviour all my life, and I can’t bear to disillusion her.’

He found the simple act of caressing her small, delicate hand comforting. The kitchen could take all the time they wanted; he was in no hurry.

‘Does she have to know anything?’

‘If there are legal proceedings against him or I fail to revive the business, yes. In either case I won’t be able to protect her from the consequences. I’ve accepted my father is guilty and I’ll handle whatever happens as it occurs.’

He noticed the waiter approaching with their meals, grudgingly removing his hand.

‘No more work talk. This was intended as a get-to-know-you meal before the dinner.’

Get to know you? Lauren already responded to him in ways she hadn’t believed were real, much less that she’d be capable of. He could turn her inside out without any visible effort. He was going to haunt her for ever.

She picked up her knife and fork, and made the mistake of looking into his contemplative midnight-blue eyes. It was as if he were seeking a path out of the quandary he’d been coerced into handling, and she might be his beacon.

He ran his finger over his mouth—oh, heck, the mouth that had covered hers so gently, so masterfully. So long ago.

‘So, do you follow the footy at all?’

About to begin eating, she almost bit her tongue. Had he remembered?

‘Only as a talking point with clients. Sport’s never interested me.’

‘What does?’ He bit into his bread roll, showing neat white teeth.

‘Why the sudden interest?’ She heard the words, hadn’t meant to say them out loud.

‘Indulge me. Saturday night I’ll be your escort. It would help if we knew something about each other.’

But we are strangers and I have to keep it that way so I can relegate you to ‘memories never to be intentionally accessed’. Ever.

He started on his meal, chewing slowly, and studying her as if committing her to his memory. Agreeing to go to this dinner was so one of her worst decisions ever. Though it could turn out to be one of the best.

‘Does it work both ways?’ Again she voiced her thoughts. She didn’t wanted to know, hoped he’d refuse.

‘I’m an avid Adelaide Crows supporter, and watched every match on the Internet while I was overseas. I played competitive squash—now I fit in games or workouts with Alan whenever I can, and run. My movie taste is for high adventure, fast action. And there’s not much I won’t eat.’

Wow, more detail to flesh out her fantasies and spice up her dreams of an unsuitable, never ever for her, completely unattainable man. She instinctively squirmed in her seat and pushed into the back.

‘Your turn.’ He wasn’t going to let her off.

‘I rarely watch sport, enjoy any well-made science fiction, and Australian historical movies or series and walk whenever possible. I use a gym on a casual basis. I enjoy spicy food, not too hot, and eat limited takeaway when I’m home.

‘And you like your job?’

‘I love the challenge of a mystery and the adrenaline rush when I succeed. Unfortunately most jobs are mundane, the result of human error and complications when they try to undo without really knowing what they did.’

She heard her own dissatisfaction. Maybe it was time for a change.

‘Is there anything else you’d like to do?’

‘I’m not sure. It’s a new concept.’ She frowned at him then smiled. ‘Talking to you might not be good for my career. Where did you live in London? I heard houses and units are super expensive.’

‘Correct. I got lucky. I own a one-bedroom suburban flat within walking distance of the Tube. Actually, the bank has a major share, but my name is on the deed. And I could buy a new three-bedroom house in Adelaide for less. It’s rented out to a colleague while I’m away, which looks like it’s going to be much longer than I anticipated.’

He pushed his empty plate aside.

‘New topic: favourite ways to relax.’

* * *

Matt didn’t mention Saturday night arrangements during their meal or on the way back, and kept the taxi waiting while he came in to pick up the folder he needed for his meeting with the solicitor.

He turned to go, made a move towards her and the air stilled between them. The flash in his eyes triggered a surge in her pulse. She waited, holding her breath. His eyes narrowed, his lips parted then his Adam’s apple bounced as he struggled for words. The sound he made was guttural, masculine. She felt its effect skittle down her spine.

‘Don’t go until I get back, okay?’

She could only nod as his finger brushed her lips and he walked out through the door.

* * *

Joanne hadn’t been kidding about the backlog but by normal finishing time Lauren had made good progress. She tidied up, then went to the nearby shop and bought a magazine and a packet of chocolate biscuits.

She was curled in a chair by his window, filling in a crossword when he appeared and dropped the folder on his desk.

‘Stay right there. Another drink?’ He indicated the mug by her side.

‘No, thank you.’ She closed the book and watched him. She’d expected dejection with the prospect of prosecution for Dalton Corporation, his father or both hanging over him. Couldn’t see it in his face or movement.

He sat and stretched out his long legs, taking a deep swallow before putting his mug down.

‘That tastes good. Thanks for waiting for me.’

His attitude puzzled her. Blasé as opposed to taut as a wound spring as he’d been most of the time she’d been here. As if he read her mind, he arched his back, linked his hands behind his head and smiled.

Where had the dour, weary-eyed man from ten days ago gone? Only the dark shadows under his eyes and the deep lines around his mouth and eyes proved the strain he’d endured.

‘Not the same guy you first met, huh? Your finding that screen has taken away the uncertainty, the unknown factor hanging over every decision I made. Now I have true facts and figures to deal with. We’ll be audited and investigated but if we’re honest we’ll survive.’

‘So your meetings went well.’

‘I’ve told the truth, and produced all the records and Dad’s medical assessment. Now I can concentrate on the new project while the experts work it all out. My priorities are to keep the company going, even if I change its direction, and to protect my mother from any fallout from Dad’s actions.’

He drained his coffee, and stood, pulling her to her feet. Close but not quite into his arms.

‘You’ve already exceeded expectations and completed your original assignment. Now I’m asking you to stay here a little longer in case I need you. Please, Lauren?’

How could she refuse when his fingers clasped hers, his voice dropped low with emotion and the pleading in his eyes wrenched at her heart.

The urge to step closer, reach out and trace his strong jaw line, to feel the slight rasp of his almost undetectable stubble, consumed her. Her pulse fluttered, her legs trembled, and swallowing had no effect on her dry throat.

‘As long as you think I can be useful.’

‘Thank you.’

A buzzer sounded from the reception area, newly installed for visitors. ‘Anyone here?’

‘That’s for me.’ He led her to the door and called out, ‘Be right with you,’ before giving her a quirky smile.

‘No peace, as they say. You go home and I’ll see you in the morning.’

* * *

He didn’t. He called as she walked to work telling her he probably wouldn’t be in the office at all. How could such a short sentence turn her day cloudy?

‘I wanted to talk to you about tomorrow night. Pre-dinner drinks start at six-thirty so I’ll pick you up at your hotel around then. It’s only a short drive.’

That meant thirty-four hours until she saw him again. She hid her disappointment with a cheerful voice.

‘I’ll be ready. Call me when you’re nearly there and I’ll come down to the lobby.’

‘I’m looking forward to it.’

In a crazy way with mixed feelings, so was she.

‘I’ll see you then, Mr Dalton.’

‘The name’s Matt, remember?’

Matt. Imprinted on her brain, hero of her dreams. Of course, she’d never forget.