During her first year of university, Tanya had her designs picked up by a local clothing boutique. When the owners retired and wanted to sell the business, Tanya—with a loan from their parents—had bought the boutique and sold her designs exclusively. Her name and talent grew rapidly within the fashion industry. She had been nervous about moving the main office to the countryside, but Tanya’s work was well known and her clients would follow her anywhere.
“I miss the Big Apple, but the area here is so beautiful.” Tanya turned the door handle and walked inside the boutique. “My designs are in demand and sales are booming. Just the other day, I received a call from a client in Paris who wants to purchase one of my lines.”
“Tanya, that’s wonderful.” Christina hugged her sister. She only had a moment to view the showroom as Tanya hurried her through the front store and to the production room.
“Ah, Christina, ma cheri belle.” Claude, Tanya’s business partner, kissed her, one cheek at a time. “You look as lovely as ever, though maybe a bit thin around the waist.” He frowned.
Christina tilted her head and placed a hand on her hip, waiting for his usual scrutiny. Tanya and Claude had met in university and Claude’s persistence was what pushed Tanya to approached local boutiques to sell her clothes. They became business partners with Claude handling finance and marketing. He was like a member of their family, the big brother they didn’t have.
“I actually miss your insulting compliments.” Christina laughed. “How’s Cathy? She must be close to her due date?”
“Oui, she has a month to go. She is out to here.” He demonstrated his wife’s belly by forming a wide circle with his hands. “Have you snared yourself a man?”
“They all run when they learn I’m smarter than them.”
“You’re still scaring them with that brain of yours? I told you, the way to a man’s heart is his stomach.” He shook his head. “By your looks, you could use a little meat yourself.”
Christina punched his arm.
In retaliation, he grabbed her by the waist and began tickling her.
“If you two are finished playing, I have something to show you.” Tanya peeked from behind a dressing curtain. She pushed it aside and stepped out, wearing her wedding dress.
Tears welled up in Christina’s eyes and her throat tightened. “Tanya, you’re gorgeous.”
The white silk wedding dress was breathtaking. The bodice fit tightly around her chest, leaving her arms and back bare. The gown, decorated with pearls and lace, flowed to the floor with a long train draping behind. Elegant, yet very sexy.
“I’d better go before I forget I’m a married man.” Claude snickered.
“When Brian sees you in this dress, he’ll make sure you guys won’t make it to the reception.”
“That’s what I’m hoping.” Tanya grinned. “He’s the one who agreed to his mother’s suggestion we sleep apart until the wedding night. Now he’s regretting his decision.” She waved a hand in the air. “Enough about our temporary celibacy. Now, time for your dress.”
Christina followed Tanya behind the curtain and accepted the garment. Her matron of honor dress was a deep shade of lavender, and similar in design to her sister’s. “I don’t know about this, sis.” She moved to the full-length mirror and glanced at her reflection. “Should it be so clingy?”
“It looks better on you than I envisioned.” Tanya clapped her hands. “And don’t listen to Claude, you know he was only teasing. You are not thin. You’re perfect, with all the curves in just the right places. This dress shows off every one of those curves. I guess I won’t have to worry about you being alone during the wedding reception.”
“What is that supposed to mean?” Christina scowled as Tanya fussed at the fabric in front of her dress.
“Don’t play innocent, big sister. I’ve spied the heavy chemistry going on between you and Steven.”
Oh no, did Tanya know her secret? “That’s absurd. I just met the man.”
“That’s not what your eyes say.”
Tanya wasn’t easily fooled, but Christina had to try. “Tanya, I don’t like him. I’m only being polite for your benefit and Brian’s parents.” At least, that much was the truth. “He’s not my type, not at all.”
“Are you kidding me? He’s a workaholic, single, incredibly handsome, and has the body any woman in their right mind would want to run her hands over.” Tanya squinted, and then she held up her finger. “Other than myself, of course. I have better…his brother.”
Christina joined her sister’s laughter, hoping to keep the discussion light.
“You know I can read you, big sis, and I sense something is going on between you two.”
She had to end her sister’s suspicions. “Steven and I are opposing lawyers, that’s it. You know I don’t mix business with pleasure.”
“You need to lighten up and add some excitement to your life. Christina, you spent most of your youth with your nose stuck in books.” Tanya paused and then sighed, still smoothing the dress’s lines. “You’re a great lawyer and now that your career is thriving, the time has come to have fun. I have just the dress to help you.” Tanya passed her a garment bag.
“What is this?” Christina unzipped the bag.
“My gift to you, for being my matron of honor.”
“You don’t have to give me anything. My job as your sister is to stand beside you.”
Tanya ignored her and pulled out a royal blue, chiffon, draped dress with spaghetti straps, a plunging V-neck, and skirt that would end at mid-thigh. Crystal stones crossed the waist and down the right side seam. “Like it?” She grinned and her brow rose.
“Like it? I love it.” The color was one of her favorites, and Steven’s. Christina hugged her sister. “Thank you.”
“You’ll wear it tonight?” Tanya coaxed.
“No, not tonight.” Her words didn’t match her anticipation to wear the dress, but she didn’t want a particular man thinking she wore the dress just for him.
“I designed this especially for you, and I’ll be hurt if you don’t wear it. I ask only this one favor.”
Christina gave into her sister’s pleading and pouting face. “Okay, I’ll wear it.”
“Great.” Tanya flashed a victory smile before focusing on her to-do list. “We need to get out of these dresses and go. We have a few more shops to visit before heading home.”
Later, alone in her room, Christina fought with indecision as she scrutinized her appearance in the mirror. She slipped her feet into black stilettos and spun in a circle to get the whole picture. The bare back and plunging neckline gave the dress an alluring affect, while the skirt highlighted her small waist and long legs.
Indeed an eye-catching dress, this being the reason for her internal fight. She might bring lots of attention from the male guests, which didn’t concern her as much as the interest she’d receive from one particular man.
“Forget him,” she told her reflection, and for the first time in a long time, Christina’s thoughts grew devious. Tanya had said plenty of single men would be at the party tonight. A little flirting wouldn’t hurt and may be exactly what she needed to banish Steven’s haunting presence from her thoughts.
“There you are.” Tanya approached as Christina entered the banquet room. “I thought for sure you’d back out of wearing the dress, but I’m so pleased you didn’t. You look terrific.”
“Very beautiful,” Brian added.
“Thank you.” Christina’s confidence rose. “You’ve outdone yourself with this design.” She stood in a model’s pose—hip out and a hand on her hip, which brought a few male glances in her direction.
Brian offered to get their drinks. “I’ll be right back.” He kissed Tanya’s cheek.
Christina and Tanya mingled in the crowded room of family and friends, until Tanya was drawn away by one of Brian’s business associates who wanted to discuss getting Tanya’s new line in Toronto’s next fashion show.
Christina’s gaze scanned
the room and then spotted Theresa and Carson approaching.
“Christina dear, you look absolutely gorgeous. Is that one of Tanya’s creations?” Theresa’s hand went to her mouth.
“Yes, it is.” She smiled and ran a hand over the waist of the dress. Christina held a lot of pride for her little sister’s talent.
“She needs to put that design in the front window of her shop. It will surely get many sales.” Theresa glanced around the room. “Has anyone seen Steven? He promised to make an appearance.”
“I think he’s in the den returning calls from his office. I’m sure he’ll join us shortly.” Carson winked at his wife.
Theresa sighed and shook her head. “Steven will grow old alone if he doesn’t soon learn to leave work at the office. He needs a good woman in his life—one who can keep up with his pace, and provide me with a few grandchildren.”
Christina wondered if Theresa knew about Rebecca Sharp. According to the tabloids, Steven and Rebecca were a hot item. A stab of jealousy nicked her heart. Instead of seizing the opportunity to throw in a slight dig to ridicule Steven, she came to his defense. “I guess it’s true about what they say about us workaholics, all work and no play…”
“No play? Awe, Christina we can always find a little time for playing games.”
Steven had a flair for sneaking up. He stood behind her, his hands on her shoulders, deliberately stopping her from turning. She struggled to retain her raging pulse as the warmth of his body caressed her bare skin.
“Steven dear, you’re late.” Theresa scolded her son with a shake of her finger.
“I apologize, but I had an important business call to return.” He leaned to kiss his mother’s cheek.
His chest brushed Christina’s arm, causing her heart rate to skip a beat. The woodsy scent of his aftershave teased her nose.
“I know you don’t approve of business at this hour, but I’m here now, and—just to make my wonderful mother happy, I changed out of my dirty work boots.” He kissed his mother’s head. “Let’s have some of that fun you claim my life is lacking.”
Theresa’s scowl quickly changed to a pleasant grin. “We’ll soon go into the ballroom. I expect to see you both on the dance floor.”
“Theresa, dear, if you want to dance later, you should rest your ankle for a bit.” Carson took his wife’s arm and started to walk away. He suddenly turned to his son. “Remember, this is a party for your brother and Tanya. I expect you to act accordingly.”
“I believe my father has suspicions.” Steven’s gaze narrowed on his parents’ departing backs.
Christina wiggled free of his hands and faced him, taking a step back to appreciate his handsome appearance in black trousers and matching sports jacket. “Your father is a Supreme Court judge. I’m sure he sees lies a mile away, and you haven’t exactly been discreet.”
“I have no idea what you’re talking about.” His eyes widened.
Her fingers balled into a fist at her side. Oh, how she’d love to smack his arrogant face. “Our argument last night in front of your father, telling your mother how I like my tea this morning, and just now with your comment about playing games, do you really think your parents are blind?” She was so irritated she didn’t give him a chance to respond. “You wanted a truce, to get along for the sake of our siblings, but you’re making it damn impossible for me to pretend to like you.”
“Easy, girl, watch your temper. People are watching.”
Christina glanced around the room, and sure enough, a few eyebrows were raised, staring in their direction.
“The men in the room only have eyes for you.” He grinned and crooked an eyebrow.
“That’s absurd.”
“I assure you they are. You look absolutely stunning this evening.” His gaze roamed from the top of her head, to her toes, and back up again. “That’s quite a dress.” He leaned in close, whispering in her ear, “I’m fighting the urge to slip those pins from your hair to let it fall over your bare shoulders and around your beautiful face.”
His breath was warm across her neck. Mixed emotions of desire and anger flooded her thoughts. She grabbed his wrist and twisted it—a little move she learned in self-defense class. “I’m warning you.” As she stared into his widened blue eyes, she forced the sweetest smile. “If you don’t want to be seen lying on the floor holding on to your groin, you’d better back off.”
She was sure Steven would have taunted her, to see how far she’d take her threats, but an unknowing party guest came to her rescue.
“You’re not keeping this gorgeous lady all to yourself, are you, Steven?”
“If I were, would that stop you, Trevor?”
“Of course not,” the handsome man replied.
When she realized Steven wasn’t offering an introduction, Christina took the lead. “Hello, I’m Tanya’s sister, Christina.”
“It’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m Trevor, Brian…and Steven’s cousin.” He reached for her hand and brought it to his lips.
She smiled at his gallant gesture. Charm obviously ran in this family’s genes.
Steven frowned.
His disapproval of her interaction with his cousin made her like Trevor instantly.
“Trevor, I believe your mother is waiting for you.” Steven pointed to the glass of water in Trevor’s hand.
“Yes, I suppose she is.” He glared at Steven.
The cousins obviously disliked each other. Animosity cut through the air. They stood rigid and challenged each other. The history between these two men escalated her curiosity.
Trevor broke the awkward silence. “If you’ll excuse me, Christina.” He leaned close to whisper, but spoke loud enough for Steven to hear. “Promise to save me a dance?”
“I’d be delighted.” She smiled.
“You’ll do no such thing,” Steven said as soon as Trevor was out of earshot.
“What’s up between the two of you? If looks could kill, you’d both be dead on the floor.” When she didn’t hear a response, she decided to remind him of their relationship, or lack thereof. “You don’t own me, Steven. We’re not together, and I will dance with whomever I please. I’m only being civil to you for my sister.” She poked a finger at his chest. “I don’t like you and never will. Stay away from me.” She stormed past him, head held high, while her hands trembled uncontrollably.
****
Steven let Christina win that one, not that he had a choice. Her words stung, leaving him at a loss for words. He watched her leave, enjoying the slow sway of her hips. His head told him to give her space, but his heart forced his feet to follow her to the ballroom. He mingled in the crowd, keeping a close eye on Christina. She danced with several men, and to see her purposely have fun amused him. She’d glance over her partner’s shoulder to make eye contact, smiling the whole time. He’d bet a dollar each one of those forced smiles was for his benefit.
When Steven saw Trevor approach Christina, he felt a vein pulsate his forehead. They danced to a few fast tunes, and then talked while waiting for the band to begin another melody. Trevor would brag about being an airline pilot. Women always fell for his career. He’d sugar-coat his story by telling Christina his parents were disappointed when he chose not to go into law, as most of the family had, while he followed his dream of flying.
Steven swallowed the remaining bourbon in his glass. Christina no longer glanced in his direction. Her smile appeared relaxed, unlike the forced ones he usually received, and her hand rested on Trevor’s arm.
He had hoped for a lingering connection—one he planned to reignite with Christina tonight, but Steven’s expectations were wearing thin. Her smiles and laughter were more genuine when he wasn’t around. He knew her well enough to know when she was acting and being real. Steven had been hiding in the shadows for several weeks, following and watching her, before their business meeting at her office this week.
She turned and held his stare from across the room.
His palm grew sweaty on the empty
glass in his hand. He didn’t understand the influence she had over him. No woman had ever sent his personal and professional lives in such turmoil. Deep down, he knew the reason why he couldn’t hide in the shadows any longer.
With Steven saw Trevor momentarily straying from Christina’s side, he seized the opportunity. He held her gaze and walked toward her, expecting her to flee. Unfortunately, their silent connection was lost as an unfamiliar man stepped in Steven’s path. He froze in the center of the room, having an instant dislike for this man who obviously knew her well. Their intimate embrace confirmed a personal connection. The stranger took her hand and led her to the dance floor where he held her close.
Steven retreated to his original position against the far wall.
The man glanced over his shoulder to Steven, and then whispered something in Christina’s ear that made her laugh.
When he witnessed his new enemy dipping her in his arms before pulling her tightly back against his body, Steven felt his control snap. Bile rose in his throat. He swallowed hard and wished for a mouthful of liquid from his empty glass. His jaw clenched, forcing his stare to look away.
If he didn’t leave now, he was sure to cause more trouble than his family would forgive him for. This night belonged to Brian and Tanya and a brawl in the middle of the ballroom floor was not the way to end it.
Steven forced his legs to walk out of the room. He needed a retreat from the vision of Christina in the arms of another man. The last time he saw her in that position, he had lost complete control. His lack of restraint had gotten him into the mess he now found himself, trying to make up for his mistakes.
A nagging itch had Steven considering she was toying with that man just to make him jealous. Would she go to such lengths to push him away? He understood her anger and need to reject him, but was it possible she still cared?
Even as he found solace in the dark library, he couldn’t let go of this question. He grabbed a bottle from the bar and poured a drink, swallowing the entire glassful before pouring another. Steven wouldn’t normally drink as much as he had tonight, but the alcohol relaxed his tired and tense body. He plopped onto one of the large, leather chairs—bottle in one hand and glass in the other. He tipped back his head and closed his eyes.
Law Of Attraction Page 9