Billionaire Bad Boys: A Collection of Contemporary and Paranormal Bad Boys

by Calinda B

  Driving back to the designated pick-up point, she made sure to stay within the speed limit so she didn’t call any attention to herself. Drew felt nervous about tonight, it had been way too easy. Moreover, there had been no adrenaline rush, no thrill. Here everyone was, spooked from Scott’s bragging, and it had been as easy as taking candy from a toddler. Not once but twice. She parked, grabbed the small bag, and slipped out of the car and into her waiting limo. There would be no trace of her ever being in the car, and it would be picked up by someone tomorrow to be returned to the rental company. Changing into the casual clothes and shoes she had placed in the car this morning, she sat back and spoke softly to her driver. “Make sure my clothes are placed in my room. The clothes I put in the black bag need to be burned tonight. You can use the fireplace in the sitting room.”

  “Yes ma’am.” He glanced in the review as she checked her watch. “I will have you there before eight, Ms. Taylor.”

  Looking right into his eyes, she smiled. “I’ll let you know when I need to be picked up.”

  He nodded once and sped through the night to her destination.

  13

  Logan checked the clock again. The steak was ready to go on, the wine was breathing, and the salad was chilling in the fridge. The potatoes roasting in the oven were just about done. He’d turned them down when she’d called, trying to time everything perfectly. He was nervous as hell waiting for her to arrive. What was he thinking, inviting her over tonight? He had early practice. Too late now. Hell, it was just dinner. Shit, will she understand when I want to go to bed? He ran his hand down his face before leaning on the counter. He didn’t want to offend her. This was the dumbest idea ever.

  The doorbell rang and he spun around, almost knocking his salt grinder off the counter. Calm down. He ran his hand through his hair and hurried to the front door. He unlocked the door, opened it, and felt his jaw drop. There she stood in a snug pair of jeans and a leather coat.

  “Come in.” He motioned for her to step inside, closing the door quickly behind her to shut out the cold. “Let me take your coat.” He helped her slide her coat off as the scent of jasmine and vanilla perfume found his nose.

  “Your home is lovely,” she said softly before turning around and tossing her hair behind her shoulders. Her fitted, soft green t-shirt hugged her perfect curves, making her look more delicate than he had ever seen her.

  “Wow, you dress down nicely.” He took in the sight of her and felt his jeans tighten in the crotch.

  Drew lowered her eyes. “Thank you, so do you.” He noticed a slight blush cover her face.

  “Come on in the kitchen. Would you like some wine?” He placed his hand on the small of her back. “I’ll start the steak now.”

  “Yes, I’d love some and there’s no hurry with the steak.” The corners of her mouth quirked up, and her cheeks turned pink.

  Logan was glad she wasn’t looking at him as he groaned inwardly. Of all nights…shit. Taking a deep breath, he pulled out one of the chairs at his kitchen table. Do you mind sitting in here while I start the meat? The grill is just out my back door.”

  She raised a brow. “No, I don’t mind.”

  “I’m sorry we won’t be able to take a lot of time for dinner tonight. I guess I should have thought before I invited you over. Coach called an early practice tomorrow morning, and I have to be rested.” He sighed as he saw a look come over her face.

  “Again, I’m sorry. When you called, I was so excited that I forgot about the practice. When you said give you an hour, I thought about it after we’d hung up. I didn’t want to call and take back the invite though.” He raked a hand through his hair. “I really am sorry.”

  “We’ll have a nice dinner. I’m looking forward to it.” She pulled her cell out of her purse. “What time should I have my driver pick me up?”

  Leaning against the counter, he glanced at the clock. “How about eleven?”

  He watched her face as she slid her finger over her phone and touched the screen, before placing it beside her ear. She glanced up and smiled sweetly at him. “Please be here at eleven to pick me up. Thank you.” She slid the screen off and stood. “What can I do to help?”

  Logan laughed. “Thanks for understanding. We’ll do this again very soon, I promise. But earlier next time. If you want to pour yourself a glass of wine, I’ll get these on. They should take just about fifteen minutes. Oh, you like your steak medium rare, right?”

  “I don’t know. I don’t normally eat steak. I’ll try it however you cook it. Can I pour you a glass as well?”

  “Nope, practice tomorrow. I’ll stick to water.” He kissed her cheek before grabbing the platter and heading out the back door. Well, that went better than I expected. She didn’t seem upset and had taken it in stride. Damn, she’s some woman. He placed the steaks on the grill and closed the lid before hurrying inside. He glanced at the clock, made note of the time, and joined her at the table. “We can eat in the dining room if you like.”

  “I think I’d like to eat here. It’s nice and cozy.” She took a small sip of wine. “What?” She giggled.

  “I’m just thinking how incredibly beautiful you are tonight. Since I’ve only seen you at the club, I never imagined you dressed like this. You sure make a pair of jeans and a T-shirt look…”

  She leaned over and shut him up with a kiss. “Thank you. I usually only do this at home when no one is around. It just felt right tonight, though.”

  Logan felt the stupid grin spread over his face as he stood to hurry outside to flip the steaks. When he came back in, he took two plates out of the cabinet and placed them on the table. He looked over, and her head was tilted back to look up at him, her lips slightly parted. Leaning down, he kissed her lips softly. “You’re going to make it hard for me to say goodbye to you tonight, aren’t you?”

  Her eyes crinkled as her mouth turned up into the cutest grin. “No, I promise to behave. You have to get to bed, and I don’t want your coach mad at you. But promise me you will invite me back soon when you don’t have to go so bed early?” Her eyes searched his.

  “I promise. Now, let me get those steaks off the grill before they’re overcooked.” He picked up the platter and headed out the door. When he walked back into the kitchen, she winked at him and he almost stumbled over his own feet. “Woman, let me get these safely to the table.”

  She giggled. He liked this side of her. He wondered how many people had seen it. For some reason, he didn’t think many had and that pleased him. She appeared to be letting a little of her outside façade slip tonight, and it made her even more fascinating.

  Setting the steaks down, he took the potatoes out of the oven and placed one on each of their plates, took the salad and butter out of the fridge, and placed it down on the center of the table. “Help yourself.” He lifted the platter for her to choose. He watched as she lifted the smaller piece and placed it on her plate. He was a bit nervous. Would she like it? After all, she was used to a top chef at the richest club in New York.

  “Thank you. This smells wonderful.” She sliced a small piece and placed it in her mouth. “And it tastes wonderful too.”

  He liked having her in his home where she seemed much more at ease. He hadn’t realized until tonight how tense Drew always was at the club, always on display. He really liked this softer side of her. Logan finished his food and watched as she finished the last of hers.

  “I don’t think I have ever enjoyed a meal more. I was famished and this...” She waved her hand. “This is the most relaxed I think I have ever felt in my life.”

  Logan reached over and ran his knuckles softly down Drew’s cheek. Her eyes flew open as she inhaled sharp breath.

  “Sorry. I couldn’t help myself.”

  “It’s okay.” Her eyes never left his as she leaned forward and touched his cheek. Pulling her hand away for a second, she acted almost as if she’d been shocked. Her head tilted as she reached out and touched him again. “Do you feel that?”

 
; Did he ever. Heat rushed through his body from her touch. Now it was his turn to inhale sharply. “Drew.” His voice sounded husky to his own ears as her name rolled off his tongue. Taking her hand, he stood and tugged her to her feet, pulling her to him. He leaned down and brushed a soft kiss over her lips, waiting for her reaction. She stepped closer as her hands wrapped around his neck, pulling him down. Logan deepened the kiss as a low moan escaped his lips. Pulling back, he laid his forehead against hers, breathing in her scent of sweet vanilla and jasmine. He released her and smiled as his hand slid down her arm before entwining his fingers with hers. “We need to stop now, or I’m afraid tomorrow’s practice will be a bust.” Running a hand through his hair, he dropped her hand and backed up. “Could we continue this another evening? Soon?”

  Drew nodded her head as a cute smile spread over her mouth, lighting up her entire face. “I’d love to. My limo should be here shortly, would it be all right if I use your bathroom?”

  “Of course. I’ll show you where it is.” Placing his hand on her lower back, he steered her to the guest bathroom on the first floor. “Here we are. I’ll see you in the kitchen. I’m going to start cleaning up.” He tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. God, he wanted to pull her to him again and kiss her until she begged him to carry her into his room. Instead, he turned and walked away.

  14

  Drew pushed the door closed and glanced in the mirror. She raised her hand, touching her lips where Logan’s had been. Her face was flushed and as she leaned closer, she noticed her pupils were slightly dilated. What was this? She’d never felt anything close to the feelings he inspired. She closed the lid on the toilet and sat down, putting her face in her hands. Take a deep breath and get control over yourself!

  She stood and paced the floor. What the hell am I doing? I don’t do this crap. Getting involved with someone is a distraction I don’t need. Her mind was racing as she flew around the small bathroom before a soft knock stopped her dead in her tracks. She sucked in a breath and held it.

  “Are you okay? Your limo is here.”

  “I’m…I’m fine. I’ll be right out.” Taking a deep breath, she pasted a smile on her face, opened the door, and found him gazing at her as he took her hand.

  “Are you sure you’re okay?” He placed his hand on her forehead. “My food didn’t make you sick, did it?”

  “No, of course not. I’m sorry. I was thinking about something. I guess I lost track of time. How embarrassing.” Oh my lord, shut up. She felt heat creep up her neck and spread over her face.

  Logan’s smile spread over his face, and his eyes twinkled as they crinkled at the corners. “You are so cute when you’re embarrassed.” Taking her hand, he raised it to his lips and gently kissed the back of her knuckles then gave her a little tug. “Come on, let’s get your coat, and I’ll walk you to the car.”

  Who are you and where did you come from? She wondered as she glanced at his profile. Drew had never met a man like him before, so down to earth and kind. Hell, his entire persona and attitude were all new to her. The way he saw her—without the intimidation or lust most of the men always had. Was this man real? Could he honestly be the person he was presenting to her? She wasn’t sure, but it seemed her heart wanted to know.

  Logan held her coat while she slipped her arms into it. Turning around, she couldn’t help but smile at the way he was looking at her. “What?”

  “Are you going to be warm enough? That isn’t a very heavy coat. It’s more like a jacket.” He snatched his coat from inside the closet, put it on, and pulled the zipper up. “I can loan you one of mine.”

  “I’m fine. I’m only walking down a couple of steps and getting into my limo. The driver will have it nice and toasty for me.”

  “If you’re sure.”

  “I’m sure.” She nodded. “It’s very kind of you to offer to walk me out, but you don’t have to.” Glancing up into his eyes, she saw such kindness and warmth.

  “I don’t mind. A gentleman always walks a lady to her car.” He took her hand again and opened the front door.

  A gust of blustery winter wind greeted them and chilled her instantly. Thank heavens, she only had to dash to the car. As they hurried down the steps, the driver was already at her door, pulling it open so she could slide quickly inside.

  She turned to Logan. “I want to thank you again for a lovely evening.”

  Logan tucked a strand of hair behind her ear as the wind raced around them, causing her hair to dance in its path. He leaned forward and kissed her cheek. “I’ll call you tomorrow.” His warm breath washed over her as he whispered in her ear, causing shivers to run down her spine. He pulled back and ghost of a smile playing over his lips. “Good night, Drew.”

  She watched as he stepped back from the car so her driver could close the door. Logan stood for a moment talking to him, and she wondered what he was saying. She heard deep, rumbling laughter as he shook the driver’s hand. She waved at Logan as he stood at the bottom of his steps, waiting for her car to pull away. “Logan James, you are a pleasant mystery,” she whispered, leaning against her soft leather seats as the car whisked her into the night.

  Drew laughed, shaking her head. Home sure didn’t feel like Logan’s small house. The moment she walked through his front door, she felt something different from everyone’s home she had ever been to. His house was warm and cozy. It invited her in, making her feel welcome and safe. Odd she should feel that way about a house. She’d heard people say things like that before, but she’d never felt it. Her house was filled with things she liked to have around her. She’d always considered her home inviting and warm, but after being there, she didn’t think it was the same.

  When they pulled up to her front door, she glanced at her house. It was pretty enough, and it had curb appeal for sure, but she realized it could be a hotel from how it looked so large and looming. When she stepped out of the car, she found herself wondering how others saw her house.

  “Thank you. I’m in for the night.” She dismissed her driver. As she walked up the steps, the door swung open.

  “Good evening, Miss Taylor,” Timothy greeted her as he waited for her to hurry in. “It is very blustery this evening. I started a fire in the library so you could sit and unwind from your day.” He nodded to let her know everything had gone as she ordered.

  “I think I am going upstairs to bed. It’s been a very long day for me. Please, tell cook that I’ll have a light breakfast in the morning. Actually, I think I’d like some scones and tea.”

  “Yes, ma’am.” He locked the door and nodded once before turning to hurry back into the kitchen.

  She made her way up the stairs, suddenly exhausted from her day. The manufactured emerald was tucked safely inside the hidden pocket of her jacket, and she had her solid alibi if anyone asked. She would destroy the decoy emerald tomorrow. Drew shivered, thinking about the dark look that had passed through Scott’s eyes the morning she’d left him. Something was off with him. Now that she’d talked with Ramsey and seen how worried and upset he was, she was glad the real emerald was back where it belonged. She could move forward.

  She closed her door and moved the lamp that sat on her dressing table. She slid her fingers over the intricate carving on the back of the antique table before pressing gently on just the right area. She smiled as she heard the soft sound of the interior lock, opening the hidden compartment. She watched as the hidden drawer came into view. Drew pulled the soft, velvet bag from her coat and carefully removed the manufactured emerald.

  Holding it under the light, she could examine it more closely. Her man had truly done an amazing job with this fake. It would have passed Scott’s examination, and only someone who was a jeweler would have realized it was a fake. Sighing, she wrapped it in a soft cloth before tucking it safely into the back of the drawer. She slid the door closed and listened to the whir of the lock resetting itself before she placed her lamp back in its proper place. It would be such a waste to destroy such a beautiful rep
lica of the original. Maybe she would research to see if any other replicas had been made of the gem. If so, she could have a necklace made for herself. Heck, would it hurt to flaunt it a little in his face?

  Standing, she stretched and yawned before slowly making her way to her bathroom to start the shower. The multiple showerheads would feel wonderful tonight, helping to get rid of some of the stress from the job. Drew hoped her buyer would understand. She’d never let him down before, and she wasn’t sure how he would take the news. She felt anxious to get this over with. She stripped off her clothes and stepped into the warm water, washing off the cold and stress.

  Once done, she dried off and slid into her warm nightgown before climbing into her bed. Drew reached to turn off the light and her phone pinged. Glancing down, she felt a smile spread over her face as she read the text from Logan. Good night Drew. I look forward to tomorrow. She texted quickly back, I can’t wait either. Good night Logan.

  As she turned off her light and lay down on the pillow, a smile crept across her face. Wonder filled her at how something so simple as a little text could make her heart race and fill her with warmth. She sighed, rather liking this new territory she was exploring.

  15

  Logan grinned when she texted back so quickly. He liked this woman. Hell, he liked her more than any girl he’d ever known. Which in reality wasn’t many. This one was different. He could feel it. Lying back against his pillow, he sighed. This one just might be the one, he thought as he drifted off to sleep.

  His eyes flew open at the sound of his alarm going off simultaneously with his phone ringing. He hit snooze on his alarm and slid the phone screen to answer the call. “James here.” He shook his head, trying to get the cobwebs of sleep out of his brain.