His mouth twitched. “Isn’t there?”
“No,” she insisted.
“That’s not what your kisses said.”
“And that was a mistake. I told you, I want to learn the business—that’s all.”
His eyes suddenly turned dark and cold. “And I repeat all the rooms in the inn are suites. And these happen to adjoin—with a locked door between them. It’s these rooms, or Todd can take you back to the airport.”
She would give anything to tell the cocky Mr. Rossi she was leaving, but she’d probably never have this opportunity to see the inner workings of a successful hotel again. “All right, I’ll stay.”
“Sam, take the luggage up,” he said, then he took her arm and walked her through the front door into a large open lobby filled with huge potted plants. The atmosphere wasn’t typical ski lodge. The thick green carpeting felt luxurious under her feet. A row of windows showed off the spectacular view. The inn had more of a Mediterranean look with its decor and dark furnishings.
They approached the elevators and John pressed the button. The ride up was silent except for the pounding of her heart in her ears. When they reached the fourth floor, John took her arm and they walked down the wide hall to the door at the end.
“This is my suite.” Then he stepped down the hall to another door. When the bellman appeared with their luggage, John took a key from Sam.
John watched Angelina’s eyes widen. “This is for you,” he said, wishing he could wipe that terrified look off her face. “Don’t worry, I won’t intrude on your privacy. Whoever you invite inside your suite is up to you.” He raised her hand and placed a soft kiss against her palm. “I hope you will have dinner with me tonight. Downstairs, or if you’re too tired from the trip, I can have room service sent up.”
She licked her lips and he felt weak at the innocent action. Or was it innocent? Damn. She had him crazy. Most of the time all he wanted to do was touch her, kiss her, feel her sweet surrender as she gave in to his will.
“No, I’d like to have dinner with you.”
Her simple acceptance thrilled him. “Good. You rest now. I’ll see you downstairs at seven.”
She nodded, and handed her key to Sam. The bellman unlocked her door, took her suitcases into her suite, then stepped back into the hallway. Angelina entered her room and closed the door.
John entered his familiar suite and sat on the bed. He looked at the wall that separated him from Angelina. He had to keep reminding himself that Angelina was trying to use him. She did not care about him—only what he could do for her. And he didn’t tolerate abuse—from anyone.
That’s right. Stay good and mad at her, then you won’t want to kiss her every time she flashes those big blue eyes.
Hell, he only wanted a relaxing weekend with a beautiful woman. Then he would have her out of his system and could move on and leave her and the Covelli family behind.
Three hours later, rested from the trip, Angelina changed into a red sweater tucked into a long charcoal skirt, and rode the elevator down to the lobby. She walked across the lobby to the front desk.
“Hi, I’m Angelina Covelli, and I’m to meet Mr. Rossi. Can you direct me to the restaurant?”
The woman was about thirty and had a friendly smile. “So nice to meet you, Angelina,” she said. “I’m Shannon Keely, the inn’s manager. John said you were going to be with us for a few days, and that you wanted a tour.”
“I hope you don’t mind.”
“Of course not. I love showing off the inn.” Shannon looked at the twenty-something clerk. “I’ll be right back, Jace.” She came around the desk, then led Angelina across the lobby toward the back of the hotel. “We’re in a slow spot now. The big rush will start on the weekend. We’re expecting another snowstorm in the next twenty-four hours.”
They came to an arched doorway. Printed across the top was the name, Per Amore. For Love. Angelina couldn’t help but wonder if John Rossi had chosen the name.
They were met by a hostess, Cindy. After the introductions, Shannon left and Cindy escorted Angelina through the nearly deserted restaurant. A soft romantic ballad filled the dark, intimate room, and each table was covered with a starched white cloth topped by a flickering candle. A perfect place for a seduction, Angelina thought as they arrived at a corner table where John waited.
He was wearing black trousers and a slate-gray sweater. “I see you made it.” He stood up and helped Angelina with her chair. “Thank you, Cindy.”
After the hostess left, John returned to his seat and reached for a bottle of white wine chilling next to the table. “Would you care for some, or would you rather wait until dinner?”
Hoping it would help with her nervousness, she nodded. “I’ll have a glass now, thank you.”
He poured the wine into a crystal glass and she took a slow sip. A dry but pleasant taste filled her mouth “This is delicious.”
“I thought you might like it. It’s from a small Italian winery. We use their wines and champagnes exclusively. It’s our goal to make everything as pleasurable as possible for our guests.” He raised a dark eyebrow. “That brings them back for more. Don’t you agree, Angelina?”
Angelina couldn’t concentrate on his words, she was too busy being captivated by his voice, his eyes.
She shook her head and cleared her dry throat. “Of course.”
“That’s also my goal for the Grand Haven Hotel. Not just to attract local people, but to draw an elite crowd that wants something unique in a hotel.”
“You’ve done very well here. It’s beautiful. But it’s not as large as I expected.”
“This is a hideaway, Angelina. Our guests come here to get away from the feeling of being crowded. We only have fifty-five guest suites.”
She took another sip of wine. “How can you make any money?”
He smiled and her stomach suddenly felt tight. “At the prices our guests are willing to pay, we do rather nicely.”
“Oh.” She took a deep breath. “Do you get many families here?”
He shook his head. “Not many. But we do have a few cottages for families along with baby-sitting services if needed.”
“Is that so they’ll be seen and not heard?” She finished the last of her wine and watched as John refilled her glass.
“That’s so their parents can have some uninterrupted time together.”
“Oh, my. John Rossi believes in romance.”
He gave her a wounded look. “What made you think I didn’t believe in romance?”
She took another drink, studying the sexy man across from her. “You told me so when you were moving into the apartment.”
“I told you that I didn’t believe in long-term relationships. I definitely believe in romance. In fact, what I’ve been imagining with you is very romantic.”
She drew in a breath. “Please, John. Remember our agreement. This is business.”
“I only agreed to refrain from doing anything you don’t want me to.” He smiled knowingly, as if he had gained the upper hand.
Well, he was wrong. She was going to work for the man, nothing more.
They ordered dinner and spent the next hour talking about their personal lives. John asked her questions about her family, but she discovered that every time she inquired about his family, he quickly changed the subject. However, by the end of the evening, Angelina had managed to get him to agree to her spending the morning with Shannon. In exchange, she would go skiing with him in the afternoon.
After a third glass of wine and eating far too much delicious food, Angelina finally called an end to the evening.
John thanked the chef and escorted her upstairs. After they got on the elevator, she smiled, then found the urge to giggle. She let go of a little laugh.
“What’s so funny?” John asked.
She shook her head. “Sorry.”
“No, I apologize. I thought you could handle a little wine.”
She stiffened. “I can handle my wine just fine.”
<
br /> “Sorry. I guess it’s probably jet lag.” He took her by the arm when the elevator doors opened.
“That’s it,” she agreed. “Jet lag. I’m tired, too.”
John chuckled as they made their way down the dimly lit hall to her room. “Where’s your key?” He held out his hand.
She searched her purse, then realized that she’d left it on her dresser. “It’s in my room.”
Without a comment, John went to the door of his suite. “I should be able to open the adjoining door with my key,” he said as he led her into his room. Angelina stood in the entry of the large suite, leading to a huge sitting room decorated in cinnamon and forest-green. A stone fireplace was ready to be lit with extra wood neatly stacked next to the hearth. A row of windows showed the view of the twinkling lights outside. Her suite was lovely, but this was incredible.
John stood at the door which led directly into her room jiggling the handle. “It’s not working.” He walked over to the table by the bed and called down to the front desk. After he hung up, he came to her.
“Someone will be up in a few minutes.”
“I’ll go wait outside.”
He reached for her to stop her departure. “You aren’t going to stand outside in the hall.”
Angelina tried to move away, but he refused to let her go. Her breathing grew rapid as it mingled with John’s. “But how will they find me?” she asked.
“I told them you were in my room. I’m sorry if I gave you too much wine.”
“No, you didn’t,” she denied. “I’m just glad you gave me this chance to come here. How will I thank you?” As soon as the words were out, she wanted to take them back.
In answer John tugged her into his arms, allowing her to inhale his familiar scent. His touch was so strong, yet gentle, making her feel secure.
No, she couldn’t let this happen. She pulled back and looked up at his face. His dark eyes were so mesmerizing. “I’ve got to go.” If she didn’t make her escape now, she’d weaken and give him anything he asked for. “’Night, John.” She had started to turn away when he reached for her again.
“Not so fast,” he said bringing her back into his arms. “If I’m not going to see you tomorrow morning, I’ll need something to sustain me.”
His mouth closed over hers in a slow lingering kiss. Without giving herself time to call on her common sense, Angelina allowed him to work his magic on her. She loved the feel of this man’s arms around her, of being cradled against his strong body. He pulled away from her lips and looked at her, his eyes glowing with an inner fire. There was no doubt, he wanted her.
When his head dipped again, she had a little courage left to fight him. “John ... we shouldn’t.”
“It was perfectly all right a few moments ago.”
The kiss had been perfect. And that fact had her more angry with herself than with him for allowing him to get so close. “I think it would be best if I ... we keep our distance,” she said, nearly choking on her words.
His eyes flashed with a sudden anger. “Fine, if that’s what you want. I usually don’t have to beg women to spend time with me.” He released her. “I am on vacation. I’m capable of finding plenty to keep me occupied.”
She nodded. Why did the whole idea make her sad? “This is for the best, John. You’ll be returning to New York...” You’ll forget all about me, she added silently.
He jammed his hands into his pockets. “Yes. New York. I have been gone a while. There are friends I’ve neglected and engagements coming up.”
She really didn’t want to hear this. But it was the right thing, she told herself. No involvement. That way no one gets hurt.
There was a soft knock on the door. “That’s my key,” she said, and began slowly moving away. “Thank you for dinner, John. Good night.”
At the door she bravely looked back. Her eyes met his and she suddenly ached to rush into his arms.
He stepped forward, then stopped. “Good night, cara.”
She rushed out and once in the safety of her suite she turned the dead bolt She could keep John Rossi out of her rooms but nothing would keep him out of her dreams.
Chapter Nine
At eight o’clock the next morning, John stood on his private balcony overlooking the mountain range. It had snowed last night, leaving three inches of fresh powder on the ski slopes.
He took a sip of coffee from his mug. “Just perfect,” he murmured, still drowsy. He’d never gone to sleep, thanks to the recurring thoughts of the heated kiss he had shared with Angelina.
With a groan, he leaned against the railing. Although he’d had a fleeting thought of seducing her for using him to get a job, she somehow had turned the tables on him.
The call he’d gotten thirty minutes ago from Shannon informed him that not only was the lodge booked for the weekend, but Angelina had been working at the front desk all morning. His manager had also tossed in that Angelina was a quick study and had picked up the hotel’s computer system without any problem.
Just perfect.
Damn, how did this get so complicated? All he’d intended to do was renovate the Grand Haven Hotel. His mistakes had been his curiosity over a fifty-year-old curse and getting involved with the Covelli family. With Angelina. Hadn’t he learned from his past history with women?
Guess not Since the first moment he’d seen Angelina Covelli, he hadn’t been thinking with his head. He couldn’t stop wanting her in his bed. And why not have her? Wasn’t she using him in much the same way?
He knew it was senseless, but he wanted her to come to him for reasons other than a job. But when she discovered his true identity, she wasn’t going to come to him at all—except maybe to slap his face.
He rubbed a hand across his cheek as if feeling the sting already. “Oh, Nonno Giovanni. How did I get into this mess?”
John wasn’t going to delve into his feelings. That was a place he didn’t go anymore. Simply, he was physically attracted to Angelina, and wanted to spend time with her. Nothing more. By the end of the week, she’d be back in Indiana, and he’d return to New York. He hoped they’d both have fond memories of their time in Vermont.
Returning inside, he pulled off his robe, tossed it on the bed and went into the bathroom. The only way he could relax was to make himself scarce. He turned on the faucet in the shower, then stepped inside and shivered as the cold spray hit his body. After a few agonizing minutes, he toweled off and returned to the bedroom, then dressed in a red sweater and a pair of ski pants.
He decided he was going to ski this morning and work off some excess energy. Maybe he’d sleep better tonight. Although, he doubted anything would keep his thoughts from Angelina.
It was going to be a long three days.
“Welcome to the Rossi Mountain Inn, Mr. Collinsworth,” Angelina said with a bright smile. “We have your suite all ready.”
A gentleman in his fifties, gray at the temples, smiled at her. “Hello...” he squinted at her name tag, “...Angelina.”
“This is your first visit to our inn?” He nodded as she took his platinum credit card and ran it through the machine, like she’d seen Shannon do all morning, then handed it back to him. “We want to make sure that you have everything you need.”
“Well, thank you,” he said. “But I can’t think of anything right now.”
“I hope you’ll be taking advantage of the fresh blanket of snow on the slopes. Will Mrs. Collinsworth be joining you?”
“She’ll be arriving tomorrow. It’s our anniversary.”
Angelina smiled. “So, a weekend away with just the two of you. How romantic. May I suggest several activities? There’s cross-country skiing, or we have sleigh rides all afternoon until nightfall. There’s a van that can take you around to many of the sights in the area, such as our famous covered bridges, and in Bennington there’s a battle monument that is the largest in the country.”
“I wasn’t planning on wandering that far from the hotel.”
Angelina tho
ught for a moment. “Well, there’s plenty to do close by, too. Treat yourself to our spa facilities and our heated pool.” She smiled. “I bet your wife would love to be pampered for a few hours. We also have a small theater and tomorrow they’re showing the movie classic, Casablanca.”
Angelina saw the man’s eyes light up as she went on. “And you can top it off with a wonderful candlelight dinner in the dining room, or if you prefer, in your suite. Our chef has created a delicious tagliarini all’aragosta, made with Maine lobster,” she continued, “and an almond sponge cake served with mascarpone sauce.”
“I think you’ve given me some good ideas,” he said. “Could you make a reservation for two in the dining room for tomorrow evening? A nice quiet table.”
“It would be my pleasure.” Angelina nodded. “How about a bouquet of flowers?”
“That would be nice.”
“I’ll arrange for a dozen long-stemmed roses to be delivered tomorrow evening about five.”
“Oh, my wife would love that. Thank you, Angelina.”
“It will be my pleasure, Mr. Collinsworth,” she said again, as she handed him the key to his room, then motioned for Sam to take his bags upstairs.
“You did a wonderful job,” Shannon said as she came up behind Angelina. “Mr. Collinsworth came here for a special occasion, and you helped him make their stay even more memorable. Oh, his wife is going to be thrilled.”
“I just watched you. It really comes naturally for me and it’s so much fun.” Excited, Angelina picked up the phone and called the inn’s florist to place the rose order. Then she called Per Amore to reserve a secluded table for two for the next night She even alerted the vocalist at the piano bar to watch for them so he could sing a special song for the couple.
She hung up the phone with a sigh. “That’s done. Mrs. Collinsworth is going to be so surprised.”
Shannon leaned against the counter. “It must be nice to have someone who’s been committed to you for so many years,” she said. “I haven’t had a relationship that lasted longer than my eighteen-month marriage. My husband resented the time I spent in my job.”
The Man, The Ring, The Wedding Page 11