“I thought it would distract the girls too much so I slipped it in my pocket. But I’ll have to put it on before Martin arrives.” The duplicity of the situation hit Liza like a rear-end collision. “Oh, Rachel, what am I doing? I’m a liar and a fraud.”
“You are no such thing. You’re the best sister any girl ever had. And soon the pretending will be over.”
“I hope so, since it’s killing me.”
“Hang on a little longer. By the way, have you talked to Meg recently?”
“Yes. And I can tell she really cares about Zach. I told her she was falling in love with him. Of course, she denied it.”
“But you think differently?”
“Absolutely. I’m sure Meg is falling for Zach.”
Rachel squeezed Liza’s hand. “Then your plan is working.”
“I guess so. But everything’s so complicated, I’m not sure if that’s good or bad.”
Rachel sank into the chair beside Liza. “Now listen to me. If Meg gives her heart to a man she truly and deeply loves, that will be the best thing that can happen to her.”
“I used to think that. But now....”
“You’re emotionally exhausted from the charade. But it will end soon. Before long, the truth will come out and the playacting will stop.”
Liza breathed a heavy sigh. “Do you promise?”
“I promise. And I have a gut feeling everything will work out great—both for Meg and for you.” She gave Liza a quick peck on the cheek. “Hang in there, kiddo. Now, I’ve got to line the girls up. Dress rehearsal starts in ten minutes.”
As Rachel rushed off, Liza pulled the diamond from her pocket and slipped it onto her finger. The ring sparkled brightly under the studio lights and felt heavenly on her hand. It fit her perfectly—as if it were made for her.
Of course it does, her conscience scolded. It’s Meg’s ring, and you two wear the same size.
For a moment, Liza held the ring close to her heart. If a genie appeared to grant three wishes, Liza knew what they would be. First, she’d wish Meg and Zach would fall passionately in love and marry so Meg could spend her life with a man she adored. Second, she’d wish Martin wouldn’t be crushed when he learned his second engagement had also backfired. And third, she’d wish she could find a man as wonderful as Martin -- a man to love and cherish for the rest of her life.
But she didn’t want a man as wonderful as Martin: she wanted Martin.
She shook her head and sighed. It would take one high-powered genie to make those wishes come true.
* * *
Martin took the stairs to the ballet studio two at a time. He felt so empowered lately he could probably manage three at a time, but didn’t press his luck. Tumbling down the stairs backwards wasn’t a good way to start his second evening as an engaged man.
Meg had called earlier to tell him she’d twisted her ankle. What rotten luck! She loved dancing that final number with her students and would miss it this year. Hopefully she’d recover enough to dance with them at the recital.
When he entered the studio, he spotted Meg. That wasn’t difficult since she was the only person in the audience. He joined her, and when she saw him, she smiled. “Hello, Martin.”
“How’s my favorite fiancée?” he asked as he bent to kiss her. “Other than the fact that you’ve twisted your ankle, and can’t dance tonight?”
“Not too bad. Thanks for asking.”
“I’m sorry about your ankle. It can take you weeks to recover.”
“This sprain isn’t so bad,” she assured. “It will heal in no time.”
“I hope so.” He stood and turned the folding chair in front of Meg around backwards. Then he took off his sport jacket, folded it and placed it on the chair. “Rest your foot on the chair, honey. It helps to keep it elevated.”
He helped her position her foot so she sat more comfortably. “How’s that?”
“Perfect. Thanks for being so considerate.”
Meg’s cheeks had flushed, and she was probably embarrassed. She always helped others solve their problems and wasn’t used to being pampered herself.
But she’d better get used to it, since he planned to pamper Meg for the rest of her life. He leaned closer. “I don’t want to rush anything, but have you thought about a wedding date?”
Meg’s eyes widened with surprise. “A wedding date?”
“Yes, a wedding date.” Why did his question startle her? After all, wedding dates usually followed engagements, didn’t they?
“I haven’t had much chance to think about it,” she said, and the flush in her cheeks deepened.
He leaned toward her and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek. “I don’t mean to rush you, sweetie. Please forgive me if I’m too eager. As far as I’m concerned, getting married tomorrow wouldn’t be soon enough.”
Her green eyes widened. “Tomorrow? You’re kidding, right?”
“Right,” he admitted, though he was only half kidding. The sooner Meg became Mrs. Martin Landsburg, the happier he would be.
The curtain opened, and Rachel walked over to the small podium at the side of the stage. “Good evening, lady and gentleman,” she said smiling.
Snickers came from behind the curtain. Rachel turned to the girls and said, “Since we only have one of each, I’m being accurate.” Her comment only increased the snickers.
“The programs aren’t printed yet so I’ll announce the numbers as we go,” Rachel continued. “Most of our dances are ballet but we’re going to open with a tap number to show our versatility. So sit back and enjoy ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz.’”
The music started, and Martin watched with amazement as the girls, dressed in sequined tuxedo costumes and tall top hats, began to perform. Their innovative steps and the complicated choreography amazed him. His bride-to-be was one talented woman.
When they finished, he and Meg clapped enthusiastically. “This is fun,” he said.
“I never dreamed they would look so professional,” Meg replied. “These girls are positively stunning.”
Meg’s comments surprised him. She expected professionalism from her students, even at their young ages. She set the standard high, and pressed the girls to practice until they achieved their best.
At least her embarrassment had disappeared, and she was fully involved in the evening’s events. Martin was glad for that.
“Thanks to you and Rachel, they’re amazing. You know, I plan to attend lots of dance recitals after we’re married. And I’ll enjoy every one of them.”
She turned to him, and a frown creased her forehead. Something was troubling Meg. Her emotions shifted between joy and despair in short order. But before they could discuss it further, Rachel approached the podium to announce the second number.
Maybe Meg’s sprained ankle was really hurting her. She never complained and probably wouldn’t admit it if her pain level shot sky high. He leaned toward her. “Does your ankle hurt, honey? Can you make it through the rehearsal, or should I take you home now?”
She looked at him as if she didn’t understand the question. She’d been so distracted lately, and that puzzled him. Was she having second thoughts about getting married? That possibility hit him with the force of an avalanche.
He loved Meg with all his heart, but what if she didn’t love him? At least not enough to marry him? The excitement he’d felt when he’d entered the studio tonight began to dissipate. He’d thought Melissa Jackson loved him, too. He’d been dead wrong once before. Would he be again?
CHAPTER 10
“I can make it through the rehearsal,” Liza assured Martin. “But thanks for your offer.”
He studied her intently, a look of concern clouding his face. “Really, Martin. “I’ll be okay.”
She’d just told another giant fib, Liza realized. She doubted she would ever be okay again. Once she returned to Kansas City and resumed her own life, it would take months, possibly years, to get past the trauma of this time with Martin -- maybe years of therapy, besides
.
In spite of the huge burden of guilt she carried, Liza watched with fascination as Meg’s young students danced. She laughed when they appeared dressed as penguins to perform a jazz dance. They looked more and more poised with each succeeding number.
During their final number, Liza’s eyes filled with tears. Dressed in white satin costumes complete with feathers, they danced to Swan Lake, and Rachel danced with them. Their precise, delicate movements touched Liza’s very soul.
When they finished, Martin jumped up and Liza followed more slowly, remembering her sprained ankle. And they clapped until their hands hurt.
The dancers took their bows then rushed over to join them. “Did you like the penguin dance, Miss Meg?” Angela asked.
“It was terrific. And I loved Swan Lake.”
“I knew you would,” Madeline bubbled. “That one’s always been your favorite.”
Liza swallowed hard. The number that had deeply touched her heart was also her sister’s favorite. While their lifestyles differed radically, at times she and Meg were so alike it was frightening. And their most disturbing similarity was their strong attraction to Martin Landsburg.
But there was a difference in their feelings for Martin. Meg was very fond of him—so fond she was considering marriage. But Liza was in love with him.
“Oh, look! Looky, looky, looky!” Madeline began jumping up and down with such enthusiasm Liza wondered what had happened.
“You two are getting married, aren’t you? When I asked you the other day, you didn’t answer me.” Madeline grabbed Liza’s hand to get a closer look at the fabulous diamond glittering there.
As the girls ooohed and aaahed, Liza felt the room begin to spin. She smiled at them, but couldn’t say a word.
“Meg wasn’t engaged when you asked her about it,” Martin explained. “That’s why she didn’t answer your question.”
“But she is now,” Amy chirped. “Hey, maybe the troupe can dance at your wedding reception.”
The room was spinning seriously now. Round and round and round. And while Liza tried hard to smile and make appropriate comments, she couldn’t. As she started to fall, Martin’s strong arms circled her, and he caught her.
“Step back, girls,” Rachel cried. “Madeline, go get Miss Meg a bottle of water.”
Those were the last words Liza heard. She had the vague sensation of floating. Of going to a gentler place. And since resisting seemed impossible, she just let go. She was drifting away -- away from Meg’s dance troupe, away from Rachel, and away from Martin.
But best of all, away from the pretending.
* * *
Liza tried to lift her head, but it felt too heavy. She opened her eyes and saw Martin staring down at her. “What happened?” she asked.
“You fainted, honey,” he said gently.
Liza was lying on a padded mat that had been placed on the floor, and the dance studio was surprisingly quiet. “Where are Rachel and the girls?”
“Everyone left. I told them I’d take care of you. But I’m sure glad you woke up. I almost called 911.”
“Why would you do that?”
“To my knowledge, you’ve never fainted before. Is this the first time?”
Liza nodded. She didn’t think Meg had ever fainted, but Liza had on several occasions. It usually happened when she got so busy at work that she forgot to eat.
Martin must have read her thoughts. “Did you have dinner before the rehearsal?”
“No.”
“What did you have for lunch?”
All the chaos of recent days had destroyed Liza’s appetite. “I just nibbled,” she replied.
He reached in his pocket and pulled out a packet of peanuts. “Here, eat these. And as soon as you’re strong enough, I’m taking you to dinner.”
“Oh, Martin, I just want to go home. If you don’t mind, that is.”
“But you need some nourishing food.”
“I’ve got eggs at the cottage. I’ll fix some.”
“Let me fix them for you. When I’m satisfied you’ve eaten a decent meal, I’ll head for the cabin. Deal?”
“Deal.”
Liza sat up and ate the peanuts. And a few minutes later she felt her strength start to return. “I can drive home, Martin...”
“No way,” he interrupted. “Rachel got Ron to help, and they’ve already delivered your VW to the cottage. Do you honestly think I’d let you drive when you fainted less than an hour ago?” The man couldn’t look more shocked if she’d suggested they go out and rob a bank.
Martin was, without question, the most thoughtful, caring man she’d ever known. And his kind ways made her plotting all the more deceitful. To hurt someone on purpose was a bad thing; but to hurt such a decent, honorable man was like committing treason.
She couldn’t bear the pretense any longer. She would tell Martin the truth on the ride home. Not even Meg’s future happiness was worth this nightmare situation she’d created. She shuddered as she considered what Martin would say when he learned about her deception. Whatever his reaction, she deserved that and more.
“It was nice of Rachel and Ron to take my car home,” she said as he helped her to her feet.
“I thought so, too.”
He slipped his arm around her waist, and his warm touch felt like heaven. Liza wanted to bask in the magic of Martin’s touch one more time before everything changed. So she slipped her arm around his waist and breathed deeply of his musky scent. Leaning against him was both comforting and exciting.
They walked down the stairs side-by-side and, while it proved challenging, they managed. Once Martin got her settled in his SUV, he hopped in, started the engine, and they took off.
When they’d gone a few blocks, she said, “Martin, there’s something I have to tell you -- something very important.”
“Whatever it is, it can wait a little longer. You gave me a serious scare when you crumpled to the floor. And you’re still as pale as a ghost.”
“But I feel much better,” she insisted even though the light-headedness still lingered. “We have important matters to settle.”
“And we will settle them -- just not tonight.”
Liza expelled a shaky breath. She’d finally decided that what she was doing to Martin was abominable, and that she couldn’t do it any longer. Not even to help her sister. And now he wouldn’t listen.
That was because he was worried about her. Martin was a gentleman to the core. His thoughtfulness caused a lump to rise in her throat. Because she held him in such high esteem, she couldn’t carry this burden of guilt any longer. She would explode if she didn’t tell Martin who she was and what she had done.
She took a steadying breath. “If we put off the discussion, it will make matters worse.”
He reached out and smoothed a curl from her forehead. “Honey, you’ve had enough for one day and you need to rest. I’m out of town all day tomorrow but on Wednesday, I’ll take you out to breakfast. We’ll talk about anything and everything you want to discuss and you’ll have my undivided attention. But all you’re up for right now is warm food and a good night’s sleep. Okay?”
“Okay,” she said, surrendering the battle. “If that’s what you think is best, that’s what we’ll do.”
Her head had started to throb on the drive home. If she did tell Martin the real story tonight, she would stumble her way through it. And if there was one thing she didn’t want to do, it was to hurt Martin any more than necessary. After some rest, she could think more clearly. Maybe she could couch the truth in words that didn’t hurt quite so much.
Yeah, right. That would take a miracle.
“Rest your head against the seat, and we’ll be home in a minute. After you’ve eaten, you’ll feel more like yourself.”
Herself? Liza didn’t have a clue as to who she was anymore. She’d muddied the waters so completely that she wondered if she could return to her previous life. Would she ever be her old self again? Did the old Liza exist anymore?
/> The moment Martin had entered the cottage and kissed her, she’d become half-Meg/half-Liza. And one kiss from Martin had tilted the world on its axis.
One thing was certain: she would never be the same.
* * *
“Sit in the recliner and put your feet up,” Martin told Meg when they reached the cottage. She still looked pale, and from the way she’d rubbed her temples on the drive over, he figured her head hurt. Since Meg wasn’t one to complain, it was just a guess.
She hesitated. “I’m perfectly capable of frying myself an egg. Why don’t you go to the cabin and relax? You’ve got plenty to do with your new contracts and civic responsibilities. An early evening would be good for you.”
Meg was right, of course. And “plenty” didn’t begin to describe Martin’s workload. But he’d felt on edge ever since they’d become engaged. He knew in his heart that Meg wasn’t thrilled about it. And a few minutes ago, she’d said they had something important to discuss. Was she reconsidering his marriage proposal? The thought made his chest tighten and his hands turn clammy.
“Once you’ve eaten and your cheeks look rosy again, I’ll leave. Now relax while I fix you a plate.”
“Aye, aye, sir.” Meg saluted him then settled in the recliner. At least that gesture had a touch of humor in it. Or was that her way of saying he was too controlling? Lately, he felt paranoid where Meg was concerned -- as if he were walking on the edge of a precipice and might slip into the unknown.
As Martin brushed a kiss on her cheek, he knew he wanted their relationship to work more than he’d wanted anything in his life. “Mmm,” she said and closed her eyes.
He retreated to the kitchen and within minutes had fixed a plate with two eggs, fresh fruit, and a slice of whole wheat toast. When he brought it to Meg, her eyes were still closed. “Honey?” he said softly. “Can you wake up enough to eat?”
She blinked then repositioned herself so she could manage the plate. “Thank you, Martin. It smells delicious.”
“Good. Go ahead and start, and I’ll bring in our coffee.”
Bride by Chance Page 14