“Tony,” she breathed out, unsure of her next move.
“It’s your call, sweetheart,” he said, stroking her back in a loving way that created tingles along her spine. Another notch of her defenses fell.
Images flashed of the good times she’d had with Tony. The fun, the laughter and the earth-shattering lovemaking they’d shared. As much as she wanted to forget, the good memories came back every time he touched her. “I want the pain to go away,” she whispered with honesty. Even if it was only for a short time tonight.
“Then let me take you there.”
She closed her eyes, nodding in relief, surrendering herself to the moment. “Yes.”
Rena touched his chest, her fingers probing, searching, tantalizing and teasing. He felt incredibly good. Strong. Powerful. She itched to touch him all over.
Bringing her head down to his, she claimed his mouth in a lingering kiss. She took it slow, pushing aside her misgivings. His body seemed in tune with hers. Every little action she took brought his sexy reaction. Every moan she uttered, he answered with a groan. She liked being in control. It was the first time she’d ever taken the reins so fully, and Tony seemed to understand what she needed. He encouraged her with a gleam in his eyes and a willing body.
“I’m all yours,” he whispered.
Her breath caught. She knew he meant it sexually, but Rena seized on the reality of that statement. He was all hers. But what she didn’t know was, could she ever be all his?
“You’re thinking again,” Tony scolded with a smile.
“Guilty as charged.” Rena reached around to unhook her bra, freeing her breasts. Letting her bra drop, she freed her mind as well, pushing all thoughts away but the immediate here and now.
Tony reached for her then, his touch an exquisite caress of tenderness and caring. He kissed her lovingly, cherishing every morsel of her body with his lips and hands until his unexpected compassion seeped into her soul.
Their lovemaking was sedate and measured, careful and unflappable one moment, then crazy and wild, fierce and fiery the next. They moved in ups and downs, from highs to lows, they learned and taught, giving joy and pleasure to one another. The night knew no bounds. And when it came time to release their pent-up tension, Rena rose above Tony, straddling his legs. He held on to her hips and guided her. Taking him in felt natural, familiar and so right. She enjoyed every ounce of pleasure derived from their joining. She moved with restless yearning, her body flaming, all rational thought discarded.
Tony watched her, his eyes never wavering, his body meeting her every demand. He was the man she’d always wanted, the man she’d been destined to love. He’d pushed his way back into her life, but Rena couldn’t trust in him, not fully, not yet. But each time they came together, her resolve slipped just a little, and her heartache slowly ebbed.
When she couldn’t hold on any longer, her skin prickling, her flesh tingling and her body at its absolute limit, she moaned in ecstasy.
“Let go, sweetheart,” Tony encouraged.
And she shuddered, her orgasm strong. She cried out his name when her final release came. Tony tightened his hold on her and joined her in a climax, taking them both to heaven.
Rena lowered down, spent. Tony wrapped her into his arms and kissed her forehead. “Do you still hate me?” he asked.
“Yes,” she replied without hesitation. “But not as much as before.”
Tony squeezed her tighter and chuckled almost inaudibly. “Guess, I’m going to have to work on that.”
During the next week, Tony left Rena during the day to work on saving her winery. He made calls out of his Napa office, meeting with customers personally to explain the new pricing structures. Tony liked winning but not at the expense of others trying to eke out a living. If there was a contract he could renegotiate, Tony was on top of it.
He made sure that their company held their own in the marketplace, but with Joe’s help they’d come up with a pricing plan that would realize profits and still allow the smaller wineries to compete.
Unlike his father, Tony didn’t need to crush his opponents. The company’s profits would go up on certain types of wine while the other local wineries of comparable quality would also make a profit on their specialties. It was a win-win situation in his opinion.
Satisfied with what he’d accomplished today, he called it quits, gathering up the papers on his desk. He was anxious to get home to Rena. Little by little, she was coming around, softening to him, smiling more and looking less and less guilty about their circumstances.
As he got ready to leave, he pondered how at night he’d join her in bed, and more times than not, they’d make love. Slow and sweet one time then wild and hot another time. Tony never knew what the night would bring. Some nights, when both were exhausted, they’d just fall asleep in each other’s arms.
Tony enjoyed waking up next to Rena in the mornings. With her hair messy and her eyes hazy with sleep, she’d look at him and smile softly for a second or two before her memories returned and a haunted look would enter her eyes.
He clung to those few seconds in his mind, telling himself that one day that troubled look would be gone forever and she’d accept him completely as her husband and the father of her baby.
Tony smiled at the thought. Rena’s stomach showed signs of the baby now. He was amazed at how quickly her body had transformed, her belly growing rounder each day.
“Excuse me, Tony,” Ali said, stepping into his office.
Tony glanced at her, and as usual, the same thought flitted in his mind. He couldn’t believe Joe wasn’t interested in this vital, gorgeous, very capable woman.
“There’s a call for you. From your agent. A mister Ben Harper? He says it’s important. Line one.”
Tony’s smile faded. “Okay, thanks.” He glanced at the flashing red light. He couldn’t ignore Harper anymore. “I’ll get it in here.”
He waited until Ali walked away before picking up the phone. “Hello, Ben.”
His agent read him the riot act for not returning his calls. Tony slammed his eyes shut, listening to his tirade. “You know damn well you’re under contract. My ass is on the line, too.”
“It’s not a good time right now,” Tony said.
“You told me that two months ago. They gave you an extension because of your father’s death, and you were recovering from your injuries, but I can’t put them off much longer. They’re threatening a lawsuit, for heaven’s sake. You need to give me something. Now, Tony.”
Tony sighed into the receiver, caving in to these last few contractual commitments. He still had an endorsement deal with EverStrong Tires and was expected to do interviews for a few of the races. “How long will it take?”
“Filming could take up to a week for the commercial.”
“When?”
“Yesterday.”
“Make it for next week, Ben. I’ll do my best.”
“You better be there, Tony. You’ve pushed them too far as it is. And don’t forget, you’re expected at Dover International Speedway for the first interview.”
“I’ll be there.”
“I’ll call you with the details.”
“I’m holding my breath,” he mumbled and hung up. He paced the office, shaking his head. Things were just getting better with Rena, and he didn’t want that to end.
Rena hated anything to do with racing. Understandably so, but Tony had no choice in the matter. The last thing he needed was a lawsuit. And, if he were truly honest with himself, he missed the racing scene. Tony had recognized that it was time to leave it behind. Exit while still on top, they say. He’d accomplished what he’d set out to do, but a man doesn’t lose his passion that easily. His blood still stirred with excitement when he stepped foot on the raceway.
The difference was that now Rena and the baby took precedence over racing. He was committed to his marriage and determined to get that same commitment from her.
Tony left the office and drove to Purple Fields, eager
to see Rena. He entered the house and found her finishing a conversation on the phone in the kitchen. He came up behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist, his hands spreading across her stomach. He caressed her tiny round belly and nibbled on her throat. It had only been a few days that she’d allowed him this intimacy, and Tony couldn’t get enough. “Who was that?” he asked, setting his chin on her shoulder.
“The doctor’s office. I have an appointment tomorrow.”
“What time are we going?”
“We?” Rena turned in his arms. “You can’t go with me, Tony.”
He blinked. “Why not?”
Rena stared at him. “You know why.”
Tony’s brows furrowed. “No, I don’t. You tell me.”
She moved out of his arms and shrugged. “This is David’s baby.”
Tony rolled his eyes. “I’m aware of that.” She reminded him every chance she could. “So?”
“No one knows we’re married. How would it look if I showed up with you?”
Tony summoned his patience and spoke slowly. “It would look like a good friend is supporting you at your doctor’s appointment.”
“No,” she said adamantly. “I can’t. Solena is taking me.”
“No, I’m taking you.”
Rena’s eyes closed as if the prospect disturbed her sanity. Tony’s ire rose, and he calmed down by taking a few breaths. “Maybe it’s time to expose our marriage. Then you’d have a legitimate reason to have me there.”
She shook her head. “I’m not ready for that.”
“Why, Rena? Why not stop this ruse? We’re living together. We’re married. Don’t worry about what people think. It’s no one’s business. This is about us, our lives and our family.”
“It’s not that,” she rushed out, giving him her uplifted chin.
Tony stared at her. Then it dawned on him. “Oh, I see. You’re not ready to accept me as your husband. As long as no one knows, you can pretend it isn’t so. You can stay in your own world and not face reality.”
Rena didn’t deny it. She put her head down, refusing to let him see the truth in her eyes.
“Tell Solena I’m taking you tomorrow. I promised David and I won’t break that promise.”
But Tony’s truth was that he wanted to be beside Rena during her appointment. He wanted to provide for her and protect her. He wanted to lend her support. And more and more, he found his desire had nothing to do with the vow he made to his best friend.
“Everything looks great, Rena. You’re in good health. The baby has a strong heartbeat,” Dr, Westerville said, smiling her way.
“Thank you, Doctor.” Sitting upright in a green-and-white checkered gown on the exam table, Rena sighed in relief. Though she felt fine, hearing it from the doctor relieved her mind.
After he’d finished the checkup he’d reminded her of the do’s and don’t’s regarding her pregnancy. Eat smaller meals, more times a day. Keep on a healthy diet. Stay active, but don’t overdo anything.
Rena had been doing all those things since even before her first appointment with the doctor. The second she realized she was having a baby, she’d read everything she could about pregnancy and gestation.
“I’ll let your friend in now,” the doctor said.
She gave him a small smile.
The doctor opened the exam room door and let Tony inside. She’d relented in letting him take her to the appointment, but absolutely refused to have him in the room during the examination.
Tony walked a few steps into the room with his concerned gaze pinned on her. Before she made introductions, she answered his silent questions. “I’m fine and the baby is healthy. Dr. Westerville, this is David’s good friend, Tony Carlino.”
“Of course.” The doctor put out his hand. “Nice to meet you Mr. Carlino. I’ve been a fan of yours for years.”
Tony nodded and shook the doctor’s hand. “I appreciate that.”
“All of us locals have rooted for you since day one.”
Tony accepted his compliment with grace. “I’ve had a lot of support from this area. It means a lot. But now I’m retired and home to stay.” He turned to Rena and she shot him a warning look. “Rena’s a family friend. I plan to help her as much as possible.”
“That’s good. She’s doing fine. She’s very healthy and I don’t foresee any problems. With all you’ve been through these past few months,” the doctor said, focusing back on her, “it’s very good to have a friend go through this with you. I recommend childbirth classes in a month or two, but for now, just follow the list of instructions I gave you.”
“I’ll do my best.”
“Still running the winery?” he asked.
She nodded. “I promised David I’d keep Purple Fields going. Not that I want anything different myself.”
“Okay, good. But in your later months, you may have to back off a little. Delegate duties more and—”
“I’ll see to it,” Tony chimed in. “I’ll make sure she takes it easy.”
The doctor glanced at Tony, then at Rena. He smiled warmly. Heat crawled up her neck, and at the same time, she wanted to sock Tony into the next county.
Dr. Westerville patted her shoulder. “I’ll see you next month, Rena. I know your husband would be proud of you and glad you’re going to have the support you need.” He turned and shook Tony’s hand once again. “David was a good man and it seems that he picked his friends wisely.”
When he left the room, Rena glared at Tony. “I need to get dressed.”
“I’ll help.” He grinned.
She shot him another warning look.
“Come on, Rena. Lighten up. The baby is healthy and so are you. That’s good news.”
Rena sighed and admitted joy at her baby news, but it struck her anew that she’d be going through all of this with Tony. “Can’t you see that this is hard for me?”
“I know, Rena. You remind me every half an hour.”
Rena twisted her lips. “No, I don’t.”
“Seems like it,” Tony muttered. “I’ll wait for you outside.”
She stepped down from the table and walked into the small dressing area, untying her gown and throwing on her clothes. Had she been too hard on Tony? At times, she felt like a shrew, but it was only because every time she softened to him, she felt like she was losing another piece of David. Little by little, David’s memory was fading. And that wasn’t fair to him or to her. A woman needed time to grieve and recover. But Tony had bounded into her life, hell-bent on keeping the vow he’d made to David.
Her feelings were jumbled up inside and half the time she didn’t know which emotions were honest and true. She’d never been in a situation remotely like this. She chuckled at the absurdity—she was a secretly married, pregnant widow.
Not too many women could say that.
After Rena’s doctor’s appointment, Tony took her to lunch at her favorite little café in town. Thinking about the new life growing inside her, she couldn’t deny her happiness. Seeing Dr. Westerville made it all seem real, and knowing that the baby was healthy and hearing the due date for the birth lightened her heart. The joy and love she held inside couldn’t be duplicated.
After they ate their meal, they stopped at an electronics store where she and Tony ordered a top-of-the-line computer with all the bells and whistles. To overcome her resistance to such a complex-looking computer, Tony had promised to set it up when it arrived and get her acquainted with it. Whatever they couldn’t figure out, his brother Joe would certainly be glad to explain to them.
Tony made other purchases as well—new phones for the house and office and a four-in-one fax machine he insisted they needed at Purple Fields. She certainly couldn’t fault her husband his generosity. Where she and David had pinched pennies to make a go of the winery, Tony had no trouble spending money for the cause. Of course, he was a millionaire in his own right, famous in the world of racing, and he could afford these things.
They strolled down the street past a
baby store, the window displaying a white crib and matching tallboy dresser, strollers and car seats. Rena lingered for a moment, aching with yearning.
“Rena, any time you’re ready,” Tony said.
Her emotions kept her from taking the next step. Something held her back. “Maybe soon. First I have to clean out the room and paint it. I thought we’d use the room across from ours to be closer to the baby.”
Tony surprised her with a kiss. “It’s a great idea.”
Her gaze lifted to his noting the pleased gleam in his eyes. She’d surprised both of them with her comment, but more and more she was learning how to trust him again. So far, he hadn’t given her any reason not to. He’d made good on his promise to fix Purple Fields. He’d spoken with customers and renegotiated contracts all in order to save her from ruin. He’d been patient with her. He’d been kind. He’d been a magnificent lover and a good friend.
He’d set out to prove that he wasn’t like his ruthless father, and so far, he’d succeeded. If she could put the past behind her, they stood a chance. For her baby’s sake, if not her own, she wanted to take that chance.
“I’ll help you with the room. I’m pretty good with a paintbrush. What color?”
Rena grinned, letting go a little bit more of the pain trapped inside. “Sage-green or chiffon-yellow.”
“What, not pink or blue?”
Rena tilted her head and sighed. “We don’t know the baby’s sex yet.” She glanced inside the store again, then placed her hand over her belly and admitted, “I don’t want to wait until we find out.”
“Me, either,” Tony said, taking her hand. “Let’s go find us some sage and chiffon paint. There’s a hardware store up ahead.”
By the time they returned home, Rena was in the best mood she could remember. They’d picked out paint colors together—unable to decide, they’d bought gallons of each shade—paintbrushes, rollers and drop cloths.
“Do you really want to help me paint the bedroom?” Rena asked after dinner as they retired to the living room. The day had exhausted her physically. Tony sat beside her on the sofa, and he brought her into the circle of his arms. She rested her head on his chest.
Million-Dollar Marriage Merger Page 11