The Unexpected Bride [Brides for the Garrison Brothers 2] (Siren Publishing Everlasting Classic)

by Paige Cameron

  Heath sat in the chair to his right. “Did you discover any answers?”

  “No, but I got a few ideas. I gather your visit didn’t go well.”

  “He refused to believe Lerones might be involved, and of course he didn’t give out any personal information. What ideas did you come up with?” Heath asked.

  “We need to know this man. Who is he, where did he come from, and all the information we can possibly find. I don’t believe this is the first time he’s done this to someone. He acted too calm and assured of his success.”

  “I’ve had the same thought,” Heath said.

  Their waiter came to the table with menus. “Would you like to start off with a drink?” he asked.

  “I’ll have scotch and water,” Heath ordered.

  “I’ll never understand how you can drink that stuff,” Devin said, and wrinkled his nose. “Bring me a bourbon and coke.”

  Heath laughed at Devin’s comment as he always did. “I like it.” Then he leaned closer to Devin. “Out of all the brothers, you are the best on the computer. I’ve been amazed at the information you’ve found in the past.”

  “You want me to do the searching on Lerones.”

  “Yes.”

  “I’d do anything to help Josie. I know some pretty good tricks to find info, although the person may think he’s hidden it well.”

  “I’ve rented some space in a friend’s office building. He’s furnishing us a receptionist for the short time she’ll be needed.” Heath handed Devin a key. “There’s a top-notch computer for you to use. Go there as often as you can until you find something on this man. There has to be a trail.”

  “If there is, I’ll find it.”

  The waiter returned with their drinks. They both ordered the steak and potato with salad. Then Devin took a long swallow of his bourbon.

  “After we eat I’ll have you follow me to the office building,” Heath said.

  “You’d better or I’ll be lost going around and around on these one-way roads.”

  “I heard from Hunter that you and Josie got engaged,” Heath said while they were eating. “Are you certain about wanting to get married?”

  “I flew here for her. That should answer your question.”

  Heath nodded his head. “Yes, you’re right, but I wanted to know you aren’t just caught up in the moment.”

  “I love her, Heath. I think I knew she was the one from the start. Mom was right as usual. Once you breathe in her scent and look into her eyes, you’re a goner, if she’s the right one.”

  “Wow, I never thought you’d get poetic. I’m absolutely convinced,” Heath grinned. “I have to stay far enough away not to breathe in their powerful, seductive scent.”

  Chapter Ten

  Josie tried to stay calm as she sat at the table on the left of the courtroom with Hunter. There were few people in the seats, but she did catch a glimpse of her old boss and his mocking smile.

  Hunter leaned close and whispered, “Don’t look at him. He wants to see the fear and pain on your face.”

  “I hate him, Hunter.”

  “I know. He’s scum, and we’ll get him. Believe me.”

  “All rise,” the deputy said as a judge came into the room. He was an older, gray-haired man with a stern expression.

  The court was called to order. Josie’s stomach did a flip-flop. The prosecutor explained the charges and his desire to have her held until the trial. Hunter squeezed her hand and stood.

  “Your honor, Miss Donnelles came to the police of her own free will. True the detectives met her, but we were headed for the police station whether they had been at the airport or not. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Bernheart and has never been in any type of trouble in the past. I request she be given bail.”

  The judge looked at Josie’s parents and nodded. “I agree. Bail is set at fifty thousand dollars. She will stay in Washington, DC until the trial date. If she doesn’t, Miss Donnelles will be brought back and placed in jail.” The judge gave her a hard look. “Do you understand, young lady?”

  “Yes sir.”

  When it was over, Josie took several deep breaths to calm her nerves, especially her stomach. Her parents and Renee came to her side.

  “You can stay with us,” her mother said. “How will it look if you are staying in a hotel?”

  “Like I wanted the convenience of being in town and close to the courthouse whenever I have to be there,” Josie said.

  “Do as we say,” Alex snapped. “You’ve caused us enough worry.”

  “You can’t possibly be as worried as I am. I’m staying in town.”

  Alex took her mother’s arm, and they strode out of the room. Renee sat beside her.

  “It’ll turn out all right. Mom and Dad will get over the shock and all will be well again.”

  Josie bit her lip. “I don’t think it’s going to be that easy this time, Renee. How I wish I had your positive personality.”

  “I have to get back to work.” Renee hugged her. “Don’t worry yourself sick.”

  “I won’t let her,” Devin said from behind Renee.

  “So you’re the fiancé. Hmm, you Garrison men are good-looking. Bye for now.” She waved and started to rush out, but she stopped suddenly. All eyes went to her and the man standing inside the door.

  “You must be Renee,” he said in a deep calm voice. “I’m your father, Wilburt Donnelles.”

  For a long second no one spoke. Then Devin walked up to him and put out his hand. “I’m Devin Garrison, Josie’s fiancé.”

  “It’s good to meet you.” He looked beyond Devin and smiled at Josie and Lacey. “I’m glad to see you two again. I was going to wait for an invite, but when I heard about Josie’s problem I wanted to be here to help in whatever way I can.”

  Hunter stepped forward and shook his hand. “We can use all the help we can get.” Renee still stared at her biological father, and Josie and Lacey moved toward him.

  “We appreciate the offer,” Lacey said, “but”—she looked questioningly at Hunter—“I’m not sure we have anything you can do to assist us.”

  Josie smiled and took her father’s hand. “I’d like you to be in court when I’m here and sit behind me for moral support.”

  “Then I will be,” he said, and squeezed her hands. “I’m staying at this hotel.” He handed her a card. “I’ve written my cell number on it also in case you need me and I’m not in my room.”

  Josie handed the card to Devin, who put it in his coat pocket. “Thanks, we’ll be in touch.”

  “You can go with us now. We’re meeting Judge Rey. He’s taking leave to help with Josie’s case and may need some assistance,” Hunter said.

  “I’m willing to do anything.”

  “You’re a little late, aren’t you?” Renee said. “I don’t remember you at all.” She hurried out, leaving the others looking after her.

  “She’s only known Alex as her father,” Josie said. “I’m not sure she’ll ever lower her guard around you.”

  “It’s all right. I deserve what she said.”

  Devin put his arm around Josie. “I’m going to get you out of here. It was nice meeting you, Mr. Donnelles.”

  “Bring her by Judge Rey’s condo after you all have lunch,” Hunter said.

  Outside the courthouse, Josie moved into Devin’s arms. “I’m so glad you’re back from wherever you and Lacey went.”

  “I am, too. And I have rented us a beautiful suite downtown. You’ll love the view. Shall we go look at it?”

  “Please, I’m anxious to see it.”

  When they stopped in front of the hotel, Josie got out of the car and bent her head back, observing the height. “It’s fancy and very tall,” she said to Devin, who’d walked around to stand by her.

  “I hope you’re not scared of heights. I reserved a suite on the top floor.”

  “Wonderful. We’ll be able to see most of Washington.”

  “It’s got a lovely balcony where I hope you can relax a
nd enjoy the sights.” Devin opened the trunk and a porter rushed forward with a cart to take their belongings upstairs. In the elevator, Devin handed her a key. “This one is for you.”

  “I don’t think I’ll need it with you around.”

  “You might. I’ll explain in the suite.”

  After he’d paid the porter, Devin closed and locked the door securely. Then he pulled Josie close and kissed her. “I’ve wanted to do that all morning.” He grinned at her. “Let me show you the suite.”

  The living room colors were a soft blue and gray. There were several vases of sweet-smelling roses set around the room. Off to the right was a formal dining room.

  “I thought we’d have everyone come to dinner one night. It’ll be catered and we can relax and enjoy each other’s company.”

  “This has to be costing you a fortune without paying to cater a meal.”

  “Stop your little financial mind from whirling around about cost. Believe me, I can afford it and much more.” Next he led her out onto the balcony which faced east and north.

  “You’re right. I love the view.” She sank into one of the large chairs. “These are so comfortable.”

  “I’ll get us a glass of wine, and then I need to discuss some plans with you.”

  Josie put her head against the cushioned back pillow and stared at the blue sky. The only clouds were little fluffy ones gliding along on a light breeze.

  If only my world had such a peaceful sky, and I had no more worries than to enjoy spending a few days in our capital with the man I love.

  “Ah, I’m glad to see you relax a bit.” He handed her a glass of champagne.

  “I thought you went for wine.”

  “Don’t you like champagne?”

  “I do, but what are we celebrating?”

  Devin went down on one knee and pulled out the ring box. “I wanted to do this more appropriately. My love, will you marry me?” He opened the box and the sunlight sparkled off the large center diamond of the engagement ring.

  “Oh, my. It’s gorgeous.” She put her hand on Devin’s face. “I love you. You didn’t have to buy the biggest diamond in the store. I’d love you if you could only buy the smallest one.”

  “I wanted to be certain men would notice and know you were mine. I’m finding I have a possessive side when it comes to the lady I love.” He slid the ring on her finger and it fit perfect. “I’m glad Lacey knew your ring size, but I went by myself to pick it out and the wedding ring which you’ll get soon. Do you really like it? We can exchange it for another one if you don’t.”

  “It’s perfect.”

  Devin handed her the glass she’d set aside, and he raised his. “To us. May we have many happy years, and many children who will hopefully look like their beautiful mother?”

  “No. The boys have to look like you. But I really don’t care as long as they are healthy. I’m getting a bit old to have children, so we may not have a large number.”

  “It doesn’t matter. One or two, or half a dozen, and I’ll be happy.”

  They sipped the champagne. Devin sat beside her. “Heath has arranged an office not far from here for me to work in. It has a computer with all I need to do a search on Lerones. We believe he’s done this before and got away with it. He’s too confident for this to be his first time. If we can find another victim we’ll have him.”

  “That’s why I may need my own key.”

  “Yes, you can go to the dining room or lounge or take a short walk. Don’t go far without me.”

  “I doubt I’ll leave this suite. It’s comfortable, and I feel temporarily safe. I’d only leave if Lacey or Hunter came and took me out.”

  “All right, but you have the key if you change your mind. We have to go now. The sooner I get to work, the quicker I can get you home and we can plan our wedding.”

  Josie put her empty glass down and stood to lean into his hard frame. Her fingers played with the buttons on his shirt. “Are you certain you don’t have time for a little loving?”

  She opened his shirt and kissed his chest. His heart pounded against her lips.

  “I may have a few minutes.” His teasing smile made her heart race.

  “I haven’t seen the bedroom and bath yet.” She pulled him to the left. “I’m guessing it’s behind this door.” She turned the doorknob and they stepped inside. The walls were a light violet, and the cover on the bed and chair cushions were in a deeper purple color with the rug a light violet like the walls.

  “You found the most beautiful, relaxing suite.”

  “I’m glad you like it. I tired Lacey out looking at so many before I found this one.”

  Josie unbuttoned his shirt and tossed it on the nearby chair. Then she unbuttoned his slacks. “You look very much the city gentleman in this attire, but I like you in sexy jeans best.”

  “I’ll remember that.” He bent and kissed the side of her neck where her heart beat against her translucent skin. He laughed when she scrunched her neck up.

  “You took off my shirt. I get to remove your blouse and bra.” When he uncovered her full breasts, his hands cupped each one and he kissed her rosy nipples. A hot fire sizzled in her core and desire rushed through her body.

  “Your touch turns my body on and I want to taste, touch, and feel you all over me,” she said.

  “Give me time. I like to savor you first.” His teeth bit the edge of her earlobe while his fingers pinched her tight nipples. Her juices flowed from her pussy, wetting her bikini panties.

  “I smell your lovin’ scent.” Devin undid her skirt button and took it and her half-slip off.

  Josie wanted to cover herself from Devin’s intent staring, but forced herself to relax and found she liked having the man she loved look at her with lust in his eyes.

  “You are beautiful.” He slipped two fingers inside the elastic on her panties and pulled them down. “There. Now you’re ready to be loved.”

  He quickly kicked off his shoes and got out of his trousers and undershorts. Josie had pulled back the comforter and sheet. Devin lifted her onto the middle of the bed. “Satin sheets are cool. We’ll have to warm them up.”

  “Do you know how?” she teased.

  * * * *

  “Oh yes, darlin’. I’ll have them well heated.” He straddled her body and feasted his eyes on her.

  “You look like you’re ready to eat me.”

  “I am.” He nibbled on her earlobe and kissed her face all over. When he got to her mouth, he bit her full lower lip and then rubbed his tongue across the spot. Her lips opened and he slid his tongue inside. Their tongues dueled with each other, and he caressed every spot inside her warmth.

  Devin took his time loving her. His lips brushed across her soft, sweet breasts before he licked her nipples. He felt her body tremble.

  “Do you like that?” he asked.

  She nodded yes. Her eyelids were half-closed with desire.

  He kissed her abdomen and around her mound. Then he spread her legs wide and lay between them. When he separated her pink folds and licked across her clit, she moaned from the pleasure.

  “That feels so good.” The husky tone of her voice excited him more.

  He licked her juices and rubbed his tongue over her clit, arousing her more and more. When he kissed her pussy opening and rolled her nipples between his fingers, her body shuddered hard and her hips came off the bed.

  “Take me, damn it.”

  “Such language from a lady.”

  “I’m not a lady when I’m in bed with you,” she snapped. “I’m your lover.”

  “And I love and appreciate how well you respond to me.” He positioned himself at her pussy opening and thrust his hard, large cock inside the tight, wet warmth.

  She met his every move and her pussy clenched his dick tight. A feeling of euphoria grew inside him. When it exploded, he saw stars and heard Josie scream in pleasure. They held tight to each other as their orgasms rolled over and took them under.

  Later, lying in
bed with Josie’s head on his shoulder, his breathing returned to normal. He kissed the top of her head, and then picked her left hand up and kissed his ring on her finger. “I love you, Josie.”

  She smiled at him. “And I love you.”

  “I hate to get up, but I need to shower and get to the office, and you have to go see Judge Rey.”

  “Shall I shower with you?” she asked.

  “Definitely not. We’d never get out of here. But you didn’t have lunch.” He sat on the side of the bed. “Order sandwiches, and we’ll take them with us. Some of the others may be hungry.”

  “Any particular kind?” she asked.

  “Whatever you’re having.”

  When Devin came out of the bathroom and headed to the closet where their clothes had been hung, he saw Josie had gone to sleep. Good, she needed it.

  He woke her. She rushed to shower and dress. He paid for the sandwiches while she got ready.

  When they got in the car, Devin looked at her sweet face and made a silent vow.

  I’ll find this guy’s secret, and I have to do it soon.

  Chapter Eleven

  Devin said hello to the receptionist and then went in the office. It was a large room with three windows letting in plenty of light. He saw the coffeepot, filled it with water and coffee, and turned it on.

  The computer was in sleep mode. Once it was going he began some easy searches. The man was sure of himself. He might not be careful with his online information.

  There were several men with his name. He clicked on the first two with no success. The smell of coffee had him up and pouring a cup. Now he was really ready to start. His fingers flew over the keyboard. It didn’t take him long to find a website with Lerones’s picture on it. There was little information, and Devin suspected the man had put it up for his boss to see more than for any true interaction online. He was smart.

  After two hours of unsuccessful searching, Devin leaned back in his chair, convinced he wouldn’t find the information in the usual way. There was a knock on the door and Heath and Hunter came in.

  “Have a cup of coffee and pour me another one.” Devin handed his empty cup to Heath.