Читать книгу Brides, Babies And Billionaires - Мишель Смарт, Rebecca Winters - Страница 59
ОглавлениеLAUREN’S LIPS TINGLED from his kiss, and her heartbeat loped along in an erratic rhythm. She wanted to be alone with Matt, wasn’t ready for a whole weekend with comparative strangers who’d probably invited her for his sake. Her first sight of the property increased her reservations.
Well-maintained tall hedges formed the property’s boundaries with ornate stone columns and high elaborate gates protecting the entrance. She could see neatly trimmed red-and green-leafed plants skirtinged the winding gravel driveway, and a variety of trees and shrubs hid the house from view.
Matt pressed a button on a matching bollard, answered a disembodied voice and the gates swung open. They passed through, and for Lauren it was like entering another world, where money was no object and the traditions of generations would be strictly upheld. She had no logical reason for the feeling yet it was strong and overwhelming, negating all the assurances Matt and Clair had given her.
She gripped her hands in her lap, drops of sweat slid down her back and her stomach churned. Having lunch in public, with eating and waiter service taking up time, hadn’t been as bad as she’d expected. The dinner function had been so noisy, so crowded and bustling, interaction had been kept to a minimum.
She’d been coerced into a weekend with Matt and the Fords, dining with them three times a day, sitting with them in the evening. She’d be alone with Clair while the men discussed business. What did she have in common with a rich, influential woman whose life revolved around her husband, family and society friends?
She... Oh, they’d stopped as the car rounded a curve. Wide expanses of lawn had been laid as a fire break on the sides she could see. Ahead stood the house, a beautiful sprawling example of a colonial family homestead with a shady wide veranda on all four sides. It was painted in muted shades of green and brown, including the shutters, to blend with the surroundings. A peaceful harmonious haven. A millionaire’s paradise.
She was vaguely aware of the lack of engine noise, then Matt’s hand covering hers, raising the hairs on her skin, triggering warmth deep inside. Somehow it intensified the trembling she tried to hide.
She looked into sympathetic blue eyes and wished she’d been more honest and refused the invitation. So much hung on the impression he made this weekend, and she’d be a liability he’d regret.
‘I’m sorry, Matt. I made a mistake. This is a mistake. The dinner was one thing—this is way bigger. You and Duncan talk business, sport, topical news. You were brought up in the same social environment, probably went to the same private school. I’ll never fit in with your elite circles.’
A guttural rumble came from his throat and he placed two fingers on her lips. She swatted them away.
‘Clair is a caring, generous person with all the social skills. I’m a computer geek with hardly any. We’ll run out of conversation in minutes.’
His features hardened, sending an icy chill shooting across her skin as if she’d entered a supermarket freezer. She pressed into the seat, wishing she could disappear into it.
‘Those statements are beneath the person I believe you are, Lauren. They met you and thought you were a charming, intelligent, and gracious young woman. Duncan’s exact words when he asked me to thank you for your kindness to Ken. And, believe me, Clair would never have invited you just to make equal numbers.’
He stroked her hair, clasped her nape and gently drew her upright. His gaze intensified as he studied her face. What was he searching for? And why? His smile obliterated her logic and created chaotic fantasies.
‘They’d like you to have a relaxing weekend in one of the most beautiful places in South Australia, the same as I do. I’m sure Clair knows we’re attracted to each other but there’s no way she’ll say or do anything to make you feel uncomfortable.’
Shame made her blush and she bit her lip. She gave him a remorseful smile, and flattened out her hands with linked fingers in supplication.
‘I guess deep inside I know that’s true. Sometimes the insecure child overrides the logical technician. Being with you plays havoc with my rationality.’
Too late she heard what she’d admitted, knew from his smug grin he’d understood, and wouldn’t hesitate to use it to coerce and cajole her.
‘You’ve just paid me one of the nicest compliments I’ve ever had. If I wasn’t parked in view from the house, and constrained by my seat belt, I’d put it to the test.’
He covered her lips, teasing and coaxing yet with an underlying restraint. She returned the kiss, safe in the knowledge it could go no further. For now. She wound her arm around his neck to hold him closer then let it slide slowly away when he lifted his head. Embraced the surge of power at the emotion in his voice when he whispered in her ear.
‘And don’t think for a second I won’t remember every word and every touch next time we’re alone.’
Bringing her breathing under control as they drove up to the house, she silently echoed his words. Except she’d remember them as long as she lived.
* * *
Clair was waiting on the front steps and came out to meet them, leaning into Lauren’s window.
‘Glad you made it. We’ve opened one of the garage doors for you round the back. I’ll meet you there.’ She didn’t comment on the five-minute time gap from gate to front door.
They parked and Matt was unloading the boot when she joined them, giving Lauren a warm hug and a kiss on the cheek. So different from the casual greetings from her family. Did her reticence cause the awkwardness between them?
‘Do you need a hand with the luggage?’
‘She’s brought less than any woman I’ve ever travelled with,’ Matt chipped in as he received the same greeting. ‘And that includes the carton of wine from the Barossa.’
‘Oh, how thoughtful. Let me take your suitcase.’
She led the way to the steps, wheeling Matt’s case, accompanied by Lauren with hers and an overnight bag. Matt locked the car and followed carrying the wine, his satchel and parka.
‘I’ve put you in the guest wing, three bedrooms all with an ensuite, a sitting room and small kitchen. Completely self-contained if needed.’
As they stepped onto the veranda two black and white dogs raised themselves from their snug positions in the corner and came over to sniff and be introduced. The larger one, a mixture of collie and a few unknowns, nuzzled at Lauren’s hands and she dropped her bags and stroked him. The other sat by Clair and studied the two newcomers.
‘Cyber’s an addict for attention. He’ll stalk you the whole time you’re here if we let him. Cyan is pure collie, and quieter. Both are very protective and great guard dogs. Go settle, you two.’
Turning to the right, she walked a few steps and opened a door to reveal a wide corridor with a high ceiling. Entering first, she placed the suitcase by the wall.
Lauren’s eyes widened at the incredible décor, presumably historically accurate with the appearance of being freshly painted in shades of blue. She’d always enjoyed colonial movies, now she felt she was on the set of one. The carved wooden mirror on the wall with a narrow matching table fascinated her. She moved closer. Clair came to stand behind her.
‘We inherited these and a lot more furniture with the house. Tomorrow I’ll take you on a tour if you like.’
‘I’ll look forward to it.’
‘You’ll find we’ve mixed and matched different time periods. If we like it, we fit it in. Use any rooms you want and join us in the main lounge when you’re ready. Shall I take the wine?’
‘It’s heavy so I’ll bring it. We won’t keep you waiting.’ Matt had already put it on the floor.
‘I just need a quick freshen up,’ Lauren said.
‘Take all the time you want, then come through here.’ Clair left through a door midway along the hall.
‘Well, Lauren, would you like to choose where you sleep?’
At odds with its rough timbre, his voice glided as smooth as silk over her skin and the only answer in her head was, With you.
The first room was a cosy corner lounge with windows on two sides. Matt opened the next door to reveal a king-sized bed with a padded green headboard and quilt. The light green wall complemented white woodwork and built-in wardrobes.
Shuttered windows overlooked the veranda, and the Queen Anne dressing table and stool between two closed doors matched the bedside drawers. One door led into a very modern ensuite, the other to an almost identical bedroom with a floral theme.
Lauren gazed from one to the other then to Matt’s inscrutable expression. His taut jaw and the slight curl of his fingers showed the depth of his tension.
She bent her head to hide a smile. If she said separate rooms, he’d accept her decision without censure though she’d bet he’d use his charm and every seduction technique he could think of to change her mind.
Her stomach quivered and she trembled as she imagined a few of them. In an instant, he was holding her arms, sombre eyes scanning her face.
‘Whatever feels right for you, Lauren. This is for happy memories, no regrets.’
She reached up to caress his cheek, and felt his tremor through her fingers. Felt a surge of elation at the power her touch had on him. She tilted her head, and curled her lips in what she hoped was a beguiling smile.
‘I’ve never been a flowery décor girl, and I can’t imagine you sleeping under a floral quilt.’
His smile lit up her world, his bear hug squeezed her ribcage, and his deep, passionate kiss had her craving to be in the bed behind them right now.
* * *
Lauren expected dinner to be in a formal room. Instead the round dining setting overlooked a native garden scattered with inconspicuous bollard lights, illuminating colourful flowers and leafage of all shades of green. Picture perfect scenery.
Duncan opened a red wine she’d purchased in the Barossa Valley and one of his own chilled whites.
‘Lauren, which would you like? We are firm advocates for indulging in your own preference.’
She chose white, the others elected to try the red. They toasted good friends and she was complimented on her choice, making her relax and laugh.
‘I can hardly claim responsibility. Matt recommended two of the wineries and I merely asked the people in those, and a third near Angaston, for a selection of their bestsellers. It’s a gift from both of us.’
‘Very much appreciated. Shall we take our seats?’
Clair went to fetch the starters, declining Lauren’s offer to assist.
‘They’re all ready to be served. You can help clear and bring in the other courses.’
Any apprehension Matt had felt regarding this visit faded away as conversation flowed. Lauren was curious about the plant varieties in the garden, admitting she’d had a successful vegetable plot in Melbourne and missed the straight-from-the-ground taste. When laughingly challenged by Clair to name the home-grown on the table, she amazed them all by being correct.
‘I thought I’d get you on the peas from the market. We’ll pick some fruit for you to take home on Sunday.’
The conversation ranged from orchards to the history of the house and the restorations the Fords had undertaken over a number of years. Matt admired the gentle banter between them, the friendly teasing solidly based on an enduring love and evident companionship.
He’d been convinced he’d never feel such a bonding, yet lately that belief had become blurred. Was it possible he might be wrong?
His eyes met Lauren’s as she stood to help with the dinner plates, and her smile tripped his heart. His mind flashed to the night ahead with the enchanting woman who’d agreed to share it with him.
Pavlova, coffee and liqueurs rounded off a delightful meal, his senses heightened by the promise of a perfect ending to the day.
* * *
All Lauren’s senses were acute, tuned like a maestro’s violin, as they approached the door that would shut them off from the rest of the house. Matt’s fingers were laced with hers. She could hear the long breaths he took. His aroma surrounded her, tempting her lungs to breathe deeper.
Tonight there’d be no drive back to her hotel. She’d nestle into his warmth and fall asleep. And wake in his arms to be kissed and loved some more as the sun’s rays lit up the room.
No expectations. No recriminations. She’d accept what he freely gave and not regret what he was not able to give. Every moment spent with Matt inched her further along the path of surrendering her heart. There was no going back and in front she could see no happy ending.
As soon as the door closed behind them, he twisted her round, and stepped closer, trapping her against the wall. He stroked her cheek with his knuckles, and she could feel his heart pounding under her palm. His free hand slid around her neck and he bent his head to claim her lips.
The fire that had smouldered since he’d arrived home roared into flame, and she returned his kiss with an ardour that shook her to her core. He quivered then his arms enfolded her, tightening until there was no space between them.
Time stood still, stretched endlessly to infinity. Too short an eon later, he raised his head to take a shuddering breath. Her own came in gasps, and she let her forehead rest on his chest.
‘Wow.’ Placing one hand on the wall above her head, he blew air out and inhaled new in. Stared at her for a long time as if trying to see inside her head, trying to puzzle something out.
‘I’ve missed you, Lauren. Ached for you for three long days and two endless nights and I can’t wait any longer.’
He lifted her into his arms, carried her into the bedroom, and laid her on the bed. Without relinquishing hold, he settled beside her, rolling onto his side to lean over her. His fingertips skimmed across her shoulders and arms then over her hips, making her squirm with anticipation. His lips kissed a path from the pulse by her ear to the corner of her mouth, driving her crazy with need.
‘Matt?’ She hardly recognised the breathless, needy plea as coming from her. Her hand pressed on the back of his neck, dragging his head down to hers, and her fingernails scraped his skin.
‘You’re mine.’ His voice was harsh, deep with passion. Macho. Triumphant.
‘Yours.’ Hers was breathless. Elated. Proud.
For as long as he needed and wanted her.
* * *
Lauren leant on the veranda rail waiting while Matt showered so they could join their hosts for breakfast. The universe was different, sharper, brighter. She was different.
She huffed and watched her breath evaporate in the cool air. She’d been changing since Matt had glanced up at her with his mesmerising midnight-blue eyes. A little every time they were together, stronger from the kisses outside her hotel room and a giant leap when they first made love.
Last night the metamorphosis had become complete. There’d been no sign of the shy, vulnerable caterpillar. She’d given herself to him completely, no hesitation, no restraint. And been shown a realm of soaring passions and sensations far beyond her imagination.
She’d fallen into contented sleep wrapped in his arms, his lips on her forehead, her hand on his thundering heart.
She felt a nudge at her side, and hunkered down to pat Cyan, almost fell over as Cyber also claimed attention.
‘Save some for me.’ Matt stood in the doorway, hair damp, eyes gleaming.
He could have all of her for as long as he wanted.
* * *
Breakfast was served on the balcony facing the large vegetable patch. Lauren loved the crispness in the air, and the light breeze stirring the foliage, making the garden appear to be alive. She could imagine sitting here all day and into the evening enjoying the changes of light and sound.
‘This is all so idealistic. I can’t imagine a more soothing place. Working in the city must be so much more tolerable if you know you have a haven to go home to.’
‘And work’s better now I can do a lot electronically,’ Duncan chipped in. ‘You can keep your high-rise views. Nothing beats what we have here.’
‘Do you get out of the city much, Lauren?’ Clair asked as she buttered her toast.
‘Occasionally. We drive up to the Blue Mountains or along the coast to go hiking. Beach walking is fun any season and easily accessible in Sydney.’
‘And who’s we?’
Lauren noted she gave no apologies for being inquisitive, didn’t need to. It was part of her caring nature.
‘A group of friends I’ve met since moving there. We now live in the same apartment block so we’re like family.’
As she spoke she looked across the table at Matt’s thoughtful expression, remembered earlier conversations and wondered if he’d come to the same sudden realisation. She had a second family, of her own ilk, and who she gelled with comfortably.
He quirked an eyebrow and his lips curled, causing fluttering in her belly and heat waves in her veins. She lifted her glass, drank the remainder of her freshly squeezed orange juice, and tried for a nonchalant demeanour.
