by Ellis, Eliza
The attendants asked if everyone was okay. The only person to complain was Jarod, who went on and on about how he was going to sue the maker of the airplane, the pilots, everyone. Marshall had to order him to keep his mouth shut. They were still on the water and had to be rescued.
Marshall and the others obeyed the attendants as they enacted protocol, inflating boats outside of the aircraft and guiding everyone into the boats. Kori remained composed, and Marshall took the opportunity to hold her close, not knowing how long it would last. Jarod kept quiet, but his angry gaze remained on both Kori and Marshall. Marshall wanted to know what was in it for the young man to keep his attention on the two of them. A pay raise? A promotion? What had been promised?
“My cell!” Marshall said after they had been seated in the boats and had rowed a short distance away from the plane. In the aftermath of the plane going down and kissing Kori, he’d completely forgotten about his phone. He wanted to call Perry and Sabrina.
“I have it,” Kori said. She reached inside her messenger bag and pulled out his jacket.
“How in the world did you manage to snag your bag? And my jacket?” Marshall took the phone from her and breathed a sigh of relief. He had reception; one bar, but it would be enough to get a call or message through.
“Yeah, your jacket hit me in the face at one point.”
Marshall sputtered a laugh. At her look of annoyance, he muttered, “Sorry.”
“Your cell hit the side of my head.” She rubbed her left temple, and Marshall’s hand came up from her shoulder to assist. “I was able to grab the strap of my bag before it flew off the table next to me.”
“I’m going to try to get a message to Perry.”
“The tower knows we’ve gone down. They should be sending rescue boats for us,” the female attendant said.
“I wonder who shot at us,” Marshall said.
“There it is!” Kori pointed to a boat coming rapidly toward them. “That was fast. Do they have boats patrolling the water?”
The male attendant shook his head. “I don’t think so.” He squinted at the boat in the distance slicing through the water at rocket speed.
“The country has a limited coast guard,” Marshall offered. “Very few capabilities.”
“That doesn’t look like a rescue boat,” Jarod said, peering at the craft. “I think that’s just somebody’s speedboat.”
In a couple of minutes, the boat pulled up alongside their own. Marshall read the words Knight’s Shield on the side. Wasn’t that a security company?
“You guys look like you need a little help.” A young blond male stood on the deck with his hands on his hips.
Marshall stood. “We do. Who are you?”
“Daemon Knight. We’ll get you pulled right up.”
Kori looked at Marshall. “Why does that name sound familiar?”
“His father is Arthur Knight,” Jarod said. “A billionaire. They’ve got holdings in a ton of companies. Daemon runs a protection service company. Elite clients only. He’s the heir-apparent.”
“Wonder what he’s doing all the way over here,” Kori muttered.
“I don’t care,” Marshall said. “As long as we can get back to the mainland and get another plane out of here.”
“We were in the right place at the right time,” Daemon said, taking Kori’s hand and helping her on board. Marshall watched from the boat, waiting until everyone was successfully off the rafts before he boarded.
“We saw the smoke plume from your plane’s engine. Thought you were in trouble,” Daemon continued, “and we figured we better stay close by. You were already losing altitude.”
“Thank you,” Kori said as she settled onto a bench on the side of the boat. “I don’t even know how we lost the engine.”
Marshall offered an outstretched hand to Daemon. “Thank you, sir. We really appreciate it.”
“It’s my pleasure, really.”
“What are you doing here?”
Daemon’s face remained unreadable. “I’m here on assignment.”
“Are you protecting someone?” Marshall looked around the boat. Outside the people on the plane, he saw no except the crew.
“Maybe. This place is a powder keg that’s about to blow. I was doing a quick survey of water routes for an exit out.” Marshall sat next to Kori. “And what probably happened is rebels got to your plane. We’ve had reports of recent tampering of transportation vehicles by rebel forces. They’re trying to keep the dictator and any of his staff from leaving the country. If they get out, then they’ll have a shot at keeping power.”
“If they get captured—”
“They could potentially face the justice system of the next government.”
Marshall nodded. It made sense. If it were just some punks or even a terrorist group, he would be angry. But he understood the Bendolans wanted to be rid of their despot, and he sympathized. “Well, they shot the wrong plane.”
Daemon’s mouth twisted into a smirk. “They aren’t taking any chances.”
“We need to get to Italy. Any way you can help us out? Even getting us back to shore would be great.”
“Italy? That shouldn’t be a problem. As long as you don’t mind finding another flight out in a neighboring country.”
Marshall and Kori exchanged glances. That would mean more traveling, probably by land or sea.
“Don’t worry about it,” Daemon said with a smile. “I’ve got you covered. Once we reach shore, I’ll have a driver pick you up. I’ll arrange for a boat to take you north. It won’t be a yacht, but it’ll get you where you need to go. Are you two on your honeymoon?” He directed the question to Marshall and Kori.
Kori grinned and ducked her face. Marshall cleared his throat. “Uh, no. We’re with Buchanan Financial. I’m Marshall Buchanan.”
Recognition crossed Daemon’s features. “Ah. Planning on investing in Bendola?”
Marshall eyed Daemon with slight suspicion now that he knew who Daemon’s father was. Arthur Knight was ruthless in how he acquired his holdings. He’d met the man once at a function and was left with a strong distaste in his mouth. Daemon didn’t give him a similar impression at all, but how much was the younger Knight cut from the same cloth? “It’s possible.”
Daemon winked. “Whatever you decide, let me know. Maybe we can partner on some ventures together.”
Like his father, the young man saw opportunities. Marshall smiled. “I’ll keep that in mind.” A partnership with Arthur Knight would be incredibly lucrative, but he hadn’t pursued one because of the challenges of dealing with Arthur. Fending off Arthur’s inevitable strong-arm tactics to acquire Buchanan Financial wasn’t something Marshall was keen to face. But since the board was going to fire him, what difference did it make now? Partnering with Daemon Knight? That probably wouldn’t be a bad thing.
His board might even like the idea.
Might be enough leverage for the two of us to keep our jobs.
Chapter 16
Kori breathed a sigh of relief the moment her soles connected with the wooden planks of the marina dock.
Marshall had held onto her hand while guiding her off the boat, and he continued to clasp it as they followed Daemon Knight’s men and a few Ghanian coast officials to a waiting black SUV.
“This is nice,” she whispered to Marshall after they had settled into the armored SUV. “An ex-Special Forces doesn’t disappoint.” Her fingers glided along the premium leather finish, the cool air from the vents drifting over her skin made sticky thanks to the sun and ocean water. Kori let out a breath, her shoulders settling now that they were safely out out of Bendola and on their way to a hotel until their plane arrived.
His eyes held a mischievous twinkle. “You like a man with money, eh?”
She dipped her head low, keeping her playfully irritated gaze on him.
Marshall laughed, the entire right side of him connecting with her as he leaned in close, keeping their eyes locked. “You know I’m a millionaire.”
Kori broke their gaze, lifting hers to the black ceiling of the SUV, feigning serious thought. “And how much money does Mr. Knight have?”
Marshall’s hand went to his heart. “Oh, ouch. He’s a billionaire.”
“Well…”
Marshall’s eyes narrowed. The seat near her bottom dipped slightly and she felt a pinch.
“Hey!” she hissed. She motioned with her eyes to Jarod, sitting on Marshall’s other side. Marshall lifted his chin, a triumphant smile on his face. He seemed completely unconcerned about their observer.
“How long do we have to be here?” Jarod asked from the other end of the seat. He rubbed at his already sunburnt forehead and made a face that indicated displeasure at the forthcoming pain and peeling.
“Should only be for the night,” one of Daemon’s men said from the front passenger seat. “Plane’s on the way. We’ve reserved rooms for you at the hotel. Flight leaves tomorrow morning at eight am Pick up’s at seven.”
“You’ll be able to get a good night’s rest,” Marshall added in a teasing tone.
Jarod snarled at him and looked away.
Within a few minutes, they were walking through the lobby of an expensive hotel abutting the Atlantic. Kori’s feet drifted to the window of a clothing store, her eyes going from the hemline to the collar of a blue and gold-colored dress with what Kori suspected was a traditional embroidery design. The hem was shorter to show off the knees, but dipped low to the ankles in the back.
Kori stepped inside the shop and read the label. A Kanga dress.
“You’d look lovely in that,” Marshall’s husky voice floated over her.
“You think so?” she whispered, not daring to look at him. Her heart thrummed, sending hot blood throughout her body. Through the display window she saw Jarod watching them.
He’d already seen Marshall kiss her. If he hadn’t already phoned back to the board, it would be all over the office tomorrow. We’re tempting fate.
And she shuddered at what fate would throw back. Her lawsuit with Brigham wasn’t settled; she couldn’t risk that outcome any further.
Marshall stood beside her. “Let me buy it for you.”
“I got a raise, remember? I can buy my own clothes.”
He faced her, his voice insistent. “I know you can, but it pleases me to…provide for you.”
She smiled sadly at him. “You’ve been doing that since before we met. I can’t ask—”
His hand cupped her elbow. “You’re not asking. I’m offering.”
She stepped back, instantly regretting the loss of his touch. “Thank you, sir, but I’d like to buy it myself.”
His neck arched away and he blinked a few times. “We’re back to sir? When did that happen?”
“It should’ve always been that way.”
“Kornelia,” he breathed, his eyes closing as his face tightened.
When she passed him, his hand caught her arm. How he could do that with his eyes closed, Kori had no idea.
Their eyes locked. “At least join me for dinner tonight. You can’t refuse food.”
“Jarod—”
“Can fend for himself.”
Marshall didn’t release her until she nodded yes. And a few hours later, she was walking across the lobby, watching unabashed pleasure fill Marshall’s features as his gaze dragged slowly down her body.
“You look…” he breathed, still not meeting her eyes.
“Thank you.”
He grinned, his cheeks flushed. “I am doing my level best not to say anything inappropriate about that dress.”
She pulled at the ruffles flowing down the back of her legs. “You don’t like it?”
“I like it very well on you.” He slipped a hand to her back and guided her forward to an awaiting table. His lips tickled her ear as he said, “But I’m sure it would look better on the floor.”
If words could impregnate…
He pulled out Kori’s chair. After she was settled, he took the seat opposite her.
“Sir,” she began slowly.
“Marshall.”
Kori shook her head. “After what happened on the plane...”
“What do you mean?”
She cocked her head to one side. “The kiss? Jarod saw us.”
Marshall’s lips thinned and he pushed back into his chair. “I honestly don’t care.”
“Well, you should.”
His eyes snapped to hers. “Should I? I’m still the CEO.”
“But my lawsuit isn’t settled.” She signed and ran a hand over her loose curls, still wet from her shower. “I can’t afford the risk, sir.”
Marshall leaned across the table, “Kori, I think we can beat this.”
“And end up as what?” She chuckled derisively. “My father always thought I’d end up here. That I’d be nothing more than…my boss’s lover.”
Marshall stared open-mouthed. “You think that’s what I want from you?”
She set a challenging gaze on him. “Are you saying you don’t?”
“Of course I want to be lovers, but not in the way you’ve been taught to think. I want…”
His voice faltered, as did his gaze. Kori’s heart skipped several beats as she waited, hopeful. The longer the silence lingered, the more her heart settled into a disappointingly normal rhythm.
Their food arrived and Kori causally began eating. “The adjustment won’t be difficult,” she said in a businesslike tone. “We’ve only known each other for a short time.”
“Marriage did a number on me,” he replied softly. He cut into his steak, the juices flowing smoothly onto his plate. “I haven’t allowed myself to hope that I could be happy again.” His eyes slowly rose. “Until you.”
“Marshall…”
“I wanted to do things differently than my parents. Divorce wasn’t an option for nearly ten years.” He covered one of her hands with his own. “You’ve convinced me that second chances are possible. That…I could…try again.”
Marriage?
Kori withdrew her hand although her heartbeat ticked up. “I can’t give you any hope,” she said without meeting his eyes. “You can’t use me as a crutch and I can’t rely on you to be my safety net for the rest of my life.”
“I’m not suggesting—”
“And until this lawsuit is over”—she finally summoned the courage to meet his gaze—“I can’t entertain any relationship beyond boss-employee. Please understand.”
His eyes searched hers for so long she was convinced he’d found the lie in her statement. She had been entertaining a relationship with her boss. Hoping for it. But reason had to prevail or her employment chances could be ruined for the foreseeable future.
If he cared for her at all, he’d agree.
Marshall’s hand, that had been laying on the table where she’d left it, dragged back to his side and disappeared into his lap. His study of her relented. With a nod he continued eating in silence.
A short time later, he escorted her back to her hotel room, pausing at her door while she touched her key card to the locking mechanism.
“Goodnight, sir.”
She gasped as his arms went around her, circling her back, and crushing her into his chest. His mouth crashed into hers, taking what she wanted so desperately not to deny. She felt the door press firmly into her back, as though Marshall was trying to shove her right through the material. Her entire front flamed as he allowed for no separation from pelvis to bosom.
Her moans filled her ears accompanied by Marshall’s own satisfied groans and whispers of her name. When he pulled away, she slouched against the door, feeling in her legs having abandoned her.
His dark gaze kept her trapped, even as he retreated. “No. No it won’t be a good night.”
She watched as he marched to his room, across the hall and a few doors down. Without a backwards glance, he entered the suite and slammed the door.
Chapter 17
Kori’s palms sweated as she heard the fourth ring. If Sa
brina didn’t pick up, then her stomach would finally be able to rest. Then again, if she didn’t pick up, that would only delay the inevitable.
She had to tell her best friend the truth. There wasn’t any way around it. Kori had to go through. Jarod saw her and Marshall kiss on the plane. If Jarod was a spy for the board, then it was only a matter of time before Kori would get the call that would put her on a plane back home. Sabrina would want to know the truth: if her father had anything to do with it.
Yes. Yes, he did. He had everything to do with it, but in the most beautiful way possible. Too bad it was a dream that couldn’t ever come true.
“Oh, so you finally call,” Sabrina answered in a clipped voice. “It’s only been a couple of days.”
Kori went cold, the sweat evaporating. “I’m sorry. I should’ve called sooner, but it’s been so hectic. We got back only a few hours ago—”
“I managed to hear from Marshall. Your plane crashed into the Atlantic, and you were stranded in Ghana for a day.”
“Good! Then you knew we were okay.”
Kori stopped talking. She didn’t have a ready excuse for why she hadn’t at least texted her friend that she was okay. She didn’t know Marshall would’ve phoned her, but of course he would’ve—he was still in Sabrina’s life. He’d want to tell her that he had just survived a harrowing experience.
Truthfully, she Kori had been avoiding looking at her phone. As they deboarded the plane in Italy, Marshall stated he was going to see his doctor about his hip. It had been bothering him since the plane crash. Kori recalled their kiss at her bedroom door in Ghana, and how their bodies had melted into each other. If his hip was severely injured, he hid the pain well.
She wanted to know if he was okay, but she wanted to avoid him as well. A futile resistance because he was her boss. How long did she think she could avoid him?
“You’ve got something to tell me, don’t you?” Sabrina asked after a few moments of silence. “Why don’t you cut the small talk and get it out.”
Kori’s mouth snapped shut. Sabrina was sharp around the edges, but she’d never spoken to her in this way—unless it was to motivate her. Kori didn’t feel motivated at all. She felt like a cornered mouse about to get slaughtered by a cat.