Hero Undercover: 25 Breathtaking Bad Boys

by Annabel Joseph

  “What do you want me to tell you?”

  “The truth. Who were they and how did they die?”

  “They got too close to the truth,” Cody said under his breath.

  There was so much more to this story. Cody was intriguing, almost too much so. He was also hiding more than just details of the case. “All right. By Stoker’s hand or one of his minions?”

  “Let’s get settled first.” He pulled the car up to the house and killed the engine. “Honey, we’re home.”

  “Don’t get too excited, dearest husband of mine.” Shanna eased out of the car and turned in a full circle. “Amazing what money can buy. Who are these people?”

  “Mr. and Mrs. Torres are currently vacationing in Europe. I’m Miguel’s brother, looking to purchase an estate of our own. Remember, darling?” He slammed the car door and grabbed the bags out of the trunk. “Thank God you aren’t like a normal woman.”

  “Meaning?”

  “You travel light.”

  She jerked her bag from his hands, the force causing her to lose her footing. Tumbling forward, she fell into his arms, dropping her things.

  “Whoa, little lady. Careful.” Cody gripped her arms and lowered his head until they were mere inches apart. “I don’t want you to get hurt.”

  His touch was electric, creating a level of current in her body she hadn’t experienced in years. She swallowed as his hot breath cascaded across her face and neck. Goose bumps popped along every surface of naked skin. He pulled her closer and she palmed his chest, digging her fingers into his soft shirt. The man was a sensual male, muscular in all the right places. Befuddled, she was frozen, unable to give a snarky comment or even move.

  “Are you okay?” he asked as he brushed a stray strand of hair from her face.

  The touch was too intimate. The spell was broken. She pulled away and placed her fingers across her lips as if anticipating a kiss. Embarrassed, she was well-aware her nipples were rock hard, no doubt pointing through her thin shirt. “I’m fine. You’re right. Let’s get settled and go into town.”

  “Good idea. We need to make an impression quickly.”

  “Don’t worry. No doubt that we will.” She yanked her bag off the driveway and headed for the front door, loathing that her body craved what her mind did not.

  Cody reached around her to unlock the door, crowding her space. “From the moment we go inside we assume the new identities. Do you understand?”

  “I wouldn’t worry about me, partner. Alex and Diego Torres have been married for five years. They live in Miami and Colorado respectively. Diego invested in Google early while Alex modeled for several years before turning her attention to humanitarian projects. They have no children or pets, preferring to be able to travel at a moment’s notice. Alex studied wine making early in her life, hence her penchant for Napa Valley. Diego prefers cognac and cigars, but relishes in his wife’s fantasies.”

  “Well done. We should have no problem getting very close. Fantasies. You’ll have to tell me about yours.” He swung open the door.

  She shot him a harsh look as her mind wandered to dark places. He had no idea about her proclivities and he damn well wasn’t going to learn. “I’m a quick study.”

  “So it would seem.”

  They walked inside. While she wasn’t certain what she’d anticipated, the contemporary house with floor to ceiling windows didn’t seem to fit the country feel of the landscape. This was more like a dream only afforded to those who had more money than God. “Who are the Torres family to the case?”

  “Wealthy. That’s all we need to know.” Sighing, Cody closed the door. “Let’s find our room and change.”

  “Rooms.”

  “We’re married. Remember? The staff need to buy the story.” He trudged up the stairs.

  “I hope there’s a couch.” Shanna trailed behind him. The master bedroom was easy to find with its double doors. The panoramic view was breathtaking. Floor to ceiling windows encapsulated the incredible estate grounds. She dropped her bag and a cold chill trickled down her back. The entire setting reminded her of happier times.

  “This will do,” Cody chuckled.

  Ignoring his comment, she walked toward the back corner, unlocking and opening the set of French doors. She inhaled as she walked outside. The balcony looked out over the backyard. A lagoon style pool, complete with tropical tress was the focal point. She gripped the railing and for the first time in months, she thought about Trent. He’d been the only man she’d ever loved. Sighing, she gripped the railing and closed her eyes.

  “Trent, let’s go back. I don’t think we should be here,” Shanna pleaded as she tugged his arm. The area was cold and dark, the atmosphere foreboding.

  “I know what I’m doing. I told you not to come but you insisted. Five minutes then I’m done.” Trent cupped her chin, kissing her lips softly. “Stop worrying.”

  “I’ll always worry.”

  “Stay here. I’ll be right back.”

  She hovered in the shadows, chilled to the bone in the abandoned warehouse, and watched until she could no longer see him. This wasn’t the way things were supposed to work out. He’d promised her never again. He lied. Damn him! She clenched her hands together and looked from right to left. The ominous shadows were terrifying, but no more so than the realization about the man she was in love with.

  Terror rose in her throat, cutting off her air supply. She took two steps forward, determined to convince him to leave this all behind.

  Creak. Bam!

  Shanna jumped, a single screech cut short. She took two more steps then stopped to listen.

  “Stop or I’ll have to shoot!”

  The male voice was husky and filled with anger.

  “I said stop!” the man repeated.

  Boom!

  “Shanna. Are you okay? Shanna?”

  “What?” Jumping, she scuttled backward as the horrible images faded. “What do you want?” You’re okay. Breathe. This isn’t the past.

  “Shanna. Whoa. What’s wrong?” Cody advanced but kept his distance. His eyes darted back and forth. “You’re white as a ghost. Did you see something?”

  “I’m fine. Just fine.” Shanna controlled her breathing and unclenched her fists. Trent wasn’t here. She couldn’t have him back. Nothing would change the past. “I’m going to change clothes.” As she moved past Cody, she brushed a tear from her eyes. This was too close.

  Cody navigated toward the bar. He might not know wines, but he was more than familiar with a good bourbon and the Torres collection was top notch. After pouring a drink, he wandered out to the patio. Inhaling, he lifted his glass in a nod toward the pristine landscaping and aquamarine pool. Everything about the house and grounds was lavish. He thought about his hole in the wall apartment and sighed. Leaving the ranch for a city dwelling had required far too many changes.

  His thoughts drifted to Shanna. He’d only been able to spend thirty minutes investigating his new partner. Her career as an attorney was textbook perfection. Top of her class at law school, she’d been recruited by Taylor, King and Franco before passing the bar. Within two years she was a junior partner, on her way to making full partner with ease. Then she’d literally quit, dropping out of sight, only to resurface three months later with a Private Investigator license and a brand new attitude. For those who didn’t know better, they’d say she was rough around the edges.

  He knew better. She was a woman of mystery but whatever had occurred, damaging her soul, she’d changed forever. What was the beautiful woman hiding? The other looming question involved her reasons for chasing Stoker Wilde. The case certainly wasn’t her norm. She filled her days investigating abusive or sexually charged men, paid moderately by wives and girlfriends. The work she performed for the law firm was also low level corporate espionage cases. Stoker was neither.

  He suspected her investigation had more to do with whatever anomaly had changed her life. Would she be a detriment to the case? He took a swig of his drink, sa
voring the smooth, full flavor. They would have to learn to trust each other without reservation, which could mean exposing inner turmoil for both. Swirling the liquid, he contemplated what he was going to say to bring her out of her shell. She was filled with so much anger and hatred, but why?

  Hearing a slight noise, he turned and sucked in his breath. The woman standing in front of him wasn’t the same feisty vixen who’d thrown him outside of the master suite. Wearing an emerald green body hugging dress, the vivid color brought out her intense yet haunted eyes. Her stilettos accentuated her long legs, the curve of her calves and her rounded hips. “Wow.”

  Shanna held up her glass and nodded. “What did you expect? A corset and chains?”

  “You are a complex woman.”

  “You are a true cowboy.” She gave a slight smile after gazing down the length of him.

  Cody glanced down, scrutinizing his attire. Perhaps the black jeans and ostrich boots weren’t Napa style, but they were certainly his preferred method of dress. “Nothing but the best.”

  She laughed, the gesture softening her features. “Touché. I don’t mind, except you still look like Mr. Cowboy Detective.”

  “Cowboy detective? I’ll take that as an insult, however I refuse to change who I am.”

  “Suit yourself, just don’t come crying to me if you’re made by the locals in a flash.” She smiled again and winked. “Besides, I kind of like your swagger and rough-hewn appearance.”

  “You do, huh?”

  After taking a sip of wine, she flanked his side. “We have three full days to investigate and determine who Stoker is working with. I suggest we don’t waste any time.”

  “You know what they say about all work and no play.” Shanna’s scent wafted across his nose, turning him on.

  “I don’t care about playtime any longer.”

  “Then what do you enjoy? What makes the woman?”

  She took another sip of wine before answering. “Retribution.”

  For some reason the word stung. He exhaled and shook his head. “What happened to you? What could have made you so enraged and unable to enjoy any aspect of life?” She was silent and still. He turned to face her. “Shanna, we all have demons, whether from experience or loss, but you’re far too young and talented to be this biased against the entire world.”

  “I’m not as young as you think. I didn’t go to law school until I was in my thirties. I had another completely different life.”

  “Do you always run away when things get tough?” Cody asked. While the words weren’t meant to be condescending, he could see the fury creeping up onto her face.

  She slowly turned her head, her expression ice cold. “I have my reasons. Don’t play dime store psychologist with me. I’ve been poked and prodded mentally before and never plan on allowing that to happen again. Just so we’re clear. We’re not going to be friends or lovers. This is a one-time gig. When we’re done and Stoker is behind bars, you’ll never see me again. Am I clear?”

  The cracked door leading to the path inside slammed shut. He feared forever. “Crystal. Let’s go into town and buy some wine. Meet the locals. We’ll lay out a plan upon our return. Is that acceptable to you?”

  “Perfect.”

  Huffing, he took long strides away from her and into the house, polishing off the remainder of his drink in one gulp. The game wasn’t worth learning to care. Whoever Shanna was deep inside, he was certain he’d never see her.

  Shanna flipped through her notes. “Stop here.”

  “Here?” Cody eyed the busy street, searching for a location to park. The sidewalks were crawling with activity. Sidewalk cafes were packed with tourists and locals alike enjoying the warm evening, the atmosphere relaxed and inviting. “Why here?”

  “Wine store. One of the best. We should be able to find what I need.”

  He had to wonder what she believed necessary. He maneuvered the Ferrari into a space. “Let’s keep a low profile, or as low as possible anyway.”

  “What’s that supposed to mean?” she asked then climbed out of the car.

  “You should have placed a neon flashing sign around your neck. You’re overdressed.”

  “My style. Not yours. Remember?” She shot him a look of disdain and slammed the car door, taking off down the sidewalk without waiting for him.

  Cody caught up to her quickly and wrapped his arm around her waist, pulling her in close and whispering in her ear. “You don’t have to like me but you do have to pretend. Remember, anyone could be watching.”

  She tilted her head. “Yes, of course. I hope you brought the credit cards.”

  “Always the ballbuster. Now, I’m going to take your hand. Act like you adore me instead of wishing I were dead.” He grabbed her hand, interlocking their fingers, and tugged her down the sidewalk. The touch was electric, far too intense. His hands sweated instantly and his heart rate skyrocketed. Shanna had managed to get under his skin.

  While she didn’t pull away, she remained stiff until they walked inside the quaint shop. When she pulled away, everything about her demeanor had changed. “Look darling. This is the little shop I was telling you about.”

  “Find whatever you like, baby. I want you happy.” He scanned the store, making mental note of the various patrons. The majority were well over forty and he suspected given the few prices listed on selected shelves, they were all wealthy.

  Shanna swayed her hips as she walked toward the counter, pushing aside several customers. Her smile was huge, her eyes twinkling with mischief. “You know I will. You owe me for last night.”

  Cody resisted reacting. They’d already been noticed by just about everyone close by. Flamboyant was her style. “But you said I was delicious last night.” The comment had mixed reactions but none that stood out. Like looking for a needle in a haystack.

  She pushed her long hair behind her shoulders and leaned over the counter, winking as the well-manicured man behind the counter flushed. “I’m looking for something extra special tonight. Hubby and I are celebrating.”

  The man cleared his throat then smiled thinly. “We have many incredible wines. Did you have something in mind?”

  “Hmmm…” Brushing the tip of her finger across her lips, she exhaled in an exaggerated fashion her eyes darted to the gold nametag on the clerk’s lapel. “I’m thinking Merlot tonight, Scotty.”

  “That’s Scott and all right. Let me show you the section where I think you’ll find exactly what you desire.” The man eased from behind the counter.

  She held out her arm, twisting her index finger back and forth. “I always know and get what I want and right now, I desire that you find the wine I’m looking for, sweet Scotty.”

  Cody folded his arms. He had to admit, the woman was good. At least six people were lingering, drinking in every detail. Five of the six were men. Two he ruled out immediately. The pudgy golfer types were definitely tourists. The woman was intriguing. Her necklace full of what appeared to be diamonds, she reeked of money. The other three men were all in their mid to late forties, impeccably dressed and extremely attentive. He memorized their faces. They weren’t the few on the suspect list.

  Scott’s forehead glistened with perspiration. “What wine would you like? I’ll see if I can find it. Please keep in mind that our wines are very expensive.”

  Cody was forced to look away for fear of bursting into laughter. At least three people murmured under their breath.

  “My dear, sweet Scotty. Money is no object. Isn’t that right, babycakes?” She flashed a look in Cody’s direction.

  “As I said, anything your heart desires, my love.” So much for laying low. Cody shifted and walked to the other side of the store. From the vantage point, he caught a glimpse of Stoker Wilde entering the store. An interesting coincidence? Maybe.

  “I’d like a bottle, no two bottles of Opus One. Since you’re such a fine establishment, I’m certain you carry the wine?” Shanna twisted, enabling the men already ogling to catch a better glimpse of her
cleavage.

  “We have a fine 2009 but it’s almost two hundred dollars a bottle,” Scott said in a clipped tone.

  Shanna rolled her eyes. “Not the 2009. That’s like drinking grape juice. I’m talking the 2011.”

  Whatever kind of wine she’d asked for garnered several reactions from the bystanders. Cody inched closer as did Stoker until they were only two feet apart.

  “Your wife has excellent taste,” Stoker said, his tone husky and low.

  “Her tastes match her proclivities, a bit wild,” Cody countered. Stoker owned several businesses in the Napa Valley including what many in law enforcement believed to be an exclusive BDSM club. Throwing out the bone was only one tactic.

  “Hmmm… You’re a lucky man, although if you ask me, she’s a bit on the impetuous side. If she were mine, a round of discipline would be in order. Yes, she wouldn’t be able to sit down for days.” Stoker grinned and walked away, but his eyes never left Shanna.

  One human trait he knew about Stoker was that he usually marked his territory. Stoker’s statement was of intent to conquer. This was Cody’s intuition and not just because he was a cop. As they left the store, walking hand in hand, he noticed Stoker watching their every move. He shivered and he wasn’t entirely certain why.

  Shanna held up the wine glass. The moonlight cast a smoky haze through the thin crystal. “Stoker and Scotty boy know each other.”

  Cody coughed and eased beside her, sitting with his knees bent by the edge of the pool. “You’re observant.”

  “Very. I need to be in my line of work. I suspect the little pudge ball of a man works for him. That’s my gut feeling.”

  “You made such a wonderful impression on the poor, unsuspecting store clerk.” Cody chuckled and sniffed the contents of the glass.

  “He’s a putz. You really don’t know very much about wine. Do you?” Seeing Stoker at the store had almost derailed her.