Tears threaten to undo my resolve, and I give him a warm smile. “You know I do.” He gives me a sweet kiss again, which fills my heart with hope that I may still have a future with him. The next I know he’s out the door and gone.
I hear Whiskers scratching at my bedroom door, and then one white paw reaches out from underneath clawing to get out.
“All right, all right.” I open it, and he runs past me looking for Ian. “Well, nice to see you too, traitor!” Frankly, who can blame him? All I want to do is run after Ian too.
Chapter 20
Keeping Secrets
Ian seems happy when he picks me up Friday night, but I can tell he is exhausted after another long work week. Our conversation remains superficial for the entire one and half hour drive. I feel tired and slightly apprehensive myself, anticipating the weekend ahead.
When we arrive at his beach house, I can’t help but wonder if he spent a night here with Susan. The thought of crawling in his bed gives me the creeps. I don’t think I’d be too happy to smell a different scent of perfume on his pillowcase. In fact, I know I wouldn’t. After entering his living room, I look at the couch and offer up a sacrifice.
“How about I take the couch this time and you the bed?”
“Are you sure?” The poor guy has dark circles underneath his eyes.
“Yeah, that’s fine. There’s a bath downstairs, and I have everything that I need. Besides, I would like to sit outside for a while on the deck. I don’t want to disturb you, if I do.”
I wonder if he suspects why I asked for the couch, but he doesn’t argue the point. He looks too tired to care.
“All right, then. Let me run upstairs and get you a blanket and pillow.”
Ian heads up to the loft, and I walk over to the sliding glass door and unlock it. My hand pulls it open a bit and immediately the invigorating ocean air kisses my face. The sounds of the waves soothe my soul. I feel as if I have arrived home where I belong.
“Here you go.”
A pillow hits the floor, and I swing around to look up at Ian about ready to toss the blanket down to me as well. He’s definitely not getting off that easy.
“That’s it? Blanket and pillow toss and no kiss?” I cross my arms and glare at him. A look of guilt flashes across his face, and immediately I’m sorry for the tease. He reminds me of a sensitive Golden Retriever that always wants to please you.
“Sure sweets,” he says, trotting down the staircase. “Give me a smooch.”
He’s acting like a dork, and it makes me giggle. He’s carefree for the moment, and that means he’s relaxed, or I think it does. I wrap my arms around his neck and tilt my head back. “Ready,” I whisper, closing my eyes. A moment later his lips mold around mine, but he doesn’t invade me with his tongue. I take what I can get, albeit a tad disappointed over his presentation. In my head, I hold up the score card. He only gets a six, and I smirk over my thoughts.
“Thanks. Now go to bed.”
“Night, Rach,” he says, turning around and slowly dragging himself upstairs. He stops at the top of the landing. “Come get me if you need anything.”
“Go,” I wave him off, “I’m fine. Get some sleep.” He nods his head and disappears into the back of the loft.
After picking up the pillow and blanket, I arrange it on the couch so I can look out the window. I’m not going to pull the curtains shut and block out the atmosphere. Suddenly, I think about the dress packed in my suitcase. I don’t want it wrinkled, so I take it out and hang it up behind the bathroom door. After my nighttime routine, I crawl under the cover and get comfy.
For a few minutes I lay staring into the dark toward the ocean. My ears hear the soft, soothing rush of water rolling up and down on the sandy beach. The sound embraces me, and it doesn’t take long before I’m off to the land where dreams are made.
* * * *
Morning arrives and I hear Ian clinking around in the kitchen. My nose picks up the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. I slightly panic over how I look, because I’m not exactly a beauty queen when I wake up. My hair always looks like a bird’s nest.
Quickly, I sneak off to the bathroom without him seeing me and do quick repairs by brushing my teeth and combing my hair. I decide to remain in my PJ’s—might as well feel comfortable.
I wander out and follow the smell of hot caffeine.
“Hey, you’re up,” he says, turning around and eyeing me up and down. A smirk spreads across his face. “Cute, but where’s your kitty PJ’s?”
I roll my eyes cringing that this handsome man actually saw me dressed in child’s apparel. Then I’m reminded, I am a little girl inside my mind—if he only knew.
“At home where they belong,” I say, heading for the cupboard where he keeps his cups. I’m smiling because I know where they are. The coffee maker makes its last steamy slurp into the carafe.
“What cup do you want?”
“Nothing special. Here take this,” he says, shoving an empty cup with his law firm’s name on it.
I stare at it then say, “Cute.” And pour him a cup, along with mine. “So, what’s on the agenda today?” I climb on top of one of the stools by the kitchen island.
“Nothing specific, except for dinner tonight.” Suddenly, a look of panic flashes across his face. “You will do dinner with me, right?”
He’s really anxious about this night out. Maybe he thinks I’m going to back out, but I’m not afraid to dine out with him anymore. I can handle this, I remind myself. Besides, I could use a decent meal.
“Yes, of course. Where are we going?”
He smiles, and a sparkle flashes in his blue eyes. “Stephanie Inn.”
My mouth drops open. “Oh, wow, I’ve never been there.” It’s too pricy for my wallet, but Ian can afford it. Nevertheless, the look on his face bothers me. I can’t help but wonder what the reason is behind the date. Perhaps, he’s romancing me. The thought gives me hope.
Suddenly, his cell phone on the kitchen counter rings. He looks at it and instantly snatches it up.
“Excuse me,” he says, while running up the stairs to the loft. I scowl, wondering if it’s Susan.
I strain to hear Ian’s conversation from the kitchen, but I can only catch a few words spoken here and there.
“Good…trip okay?”
Damn, he’s talking to Susan, I seethe. Cautiously, I sneak a little closer to the bottom of the stairs, but stay out of sight.
“Yeah, sure, that’s fine. How’s mom?”
Mom? Now I’m thoroughly confused. Maybe it’s not Susan. Ian breaks out in laughter. “You got to be kidding me?”
This conversation is driving me bonkers.
“Uh-huh, yeah…sure…okay.”
His voice drops really low, but I still hear him talk. It’s obvious he doesn’t want me to know what is going on. I skedaddle back to the kitchen and start sipping the brew, acting innocent. A few moments later, Ian walks in and plays dumb.
“Everything okay?” I pry looking up at him.
“Yeah, sure.”
He avoids eye contact with me. Apparently, that’s becoming a habit, and I find it irksome because I can’t read what he’s thinking. Okay, he doesn’t want to talk or tell me who was on the telephone. He’s hiding something, but I can tell from his body language he’s nervous as hell. I don’t want to push it, so I let it drop.
“So, you are okay about dinner with me tonight?”
He looks at me checking my response one more time. This dinner thing is important. “Yeah, I think I can handle it now that I know you better.” He flashes a relieved smile.
“Great,” he replies.
“I think I’ll go shower and get dressed,” I announce, emptying my coffee cup and heading off to the bathroom.
“You want to go for a walk on the beach later?” he calls out after me.
I glance outside. A slight morning fog is lying off shore, but later on it should burn off. It’s supposed to be sunny this weekend.
“Yes, I’d l
ike that.”
“Good, I’ll go get cleaned up. We can have a bite to eat before we head out.”
“Okay,” I say, walking into the bathroom. I close the door and wonder what’s going on with him. He’s acting secretive, and I’m dying to know who was on the telephone.
Chapter 21
Hang in There Doll
One last glance in the mirror and I’m pleased. God, I look hot. I have to admit that since I started back in counseling my self-esteem has moved up one notch. I’m feeling more confident about myself, in spite of some of my screwy sexual desires.
I’m dressed in my black dress that hugs my curves. My legs are covered in sheer black panty hose, and my shiny patent leather four-inch heels are making me feel tall. Thank goodness Ian is taller still. Wearing them makes my ass look good, and my boobs thrust temptingly forward.
My hair is upswept on the sides, but I’ve let my long blonde locks cascade down the back. I brought a few pieces of my nice, gold costume jewelry to wear. A few dabs of my favorite perfume, the last touch of mauve lipstick, and I’m ready. Watch out Ian, you’re in for it, I smugly think while looking at myself.
Slowly, I emerge from the bathroom and walk out into the great room. Ian is pacing back and forth. I’m shocked over his behavior, because he’s usually the cool cucumber. He turns around and takes one look at me, and his eyes grow wide. The man is speechless. I can’t help but feel powerful and provocative. I’ve got the upper hand on the law man.
“Good Lord, Rachel, you’re a knockout.”
“Why thank you, Mr. Richards,” I say in a soft drawl. “I’m glad you like it.” I turn around and give him the complete view.
Afterward, I stop and assess him. Ian is dressed in a black suit, ivory-colored shirt, and dark gray tie. He’s smoking hot. I like it when he wears dark colors, because it accents his hair and dreamy eyes. “Not bad yourself. You look extremely handsome in that suit, sir.”
He approaches me like he’s going to give me a kiss. I raise my hand in protest. “No messing up the makeup. Hands off.” He shoves out his lower lip in a pout.
“All right,” he sighs, lowering his eyes to my cleavage. “You ready?”
“Let me get my wrap.” I take the black silk shawl that came with the dress and drape it over my shoulders and arms. Now I truly feel like a million dollars. Ian looks mesmerized, and I feel as if I’m gaining ground in my favor.
We climb into the car and drive south about a mile to the beautiful inn that sits right on the ocean. I’ve never been there, and I’m frankly excited for a romantic dinner for two.
After we pull into the parking lot and park, Ian’s face looks as if he just ate a sour grape. He sits motionless for a moment and then turns his head and looks at me.
“You okay?” I reach over and touch his hand. It’s hard not to question his odd behavior.
“Yeah, sure. I’ve got something to tell you when we get inside.”
“All right.” The whole situation is becoming confusing, and I don’t understand what all the mystery is about.
We walk inside the lobby of the hotel. The resort is beautiful with wood and stone decor. A sense of excitement flows through my veins, because I know it’s one of the most expensive places to stay and dine in Cannon Beach. Ian walks me around the huge stone fireplace that faces the front door to an elevator on the other side.
He pushes the button and the door opens. Once in, he pushes two, and then turns and looks at me with a worried look in his eyes.
“Hang in there doll.”
Hang in there, doll? What the hell is that supposed to mean?
The elevator door opens, and we step out into the reception area of the restaurant. Ian stops, and I assume we’re waiting for the hostess to greet and take us to a table. Instead, I see a strange man heading in our direction. He’s extremely good looking, brown hair, and I guess that he’s a few years older than we are. He’s dressed in a fantastic, well-tailored, three-piece, gray suit, which makes him look intriguing and important. I’m aghast that he has come to greet us. He heads directly to Ian and gives him a manly bear hug.
“God, Ian, it’s been far too long! Good to see you.” He pats him a few times on his back. Afterward, he squeezes Ian’s upper arm and looks at him up and down. “Shit, you look good.” He nods his head with a broad smile on his face.
Ian flashes a grin from ear to ear. “Shit, you look good too, Jack.”
Jack? Jack? Where have I heard that name before? Suddenly, it dawns on me that Jack is his freaking brother! My head spins to Ian like I’m possessed or something, and I give him the Rachel evil eye. Ian ignores me, keeping his focus on Jack, who suddenly turns his attention to me. He flashes the typical male once-over from my boobs to my toes and up again, then looks me in the eye with obvious curiosity.
“And who is this beautiful, young lady?” he asks. His voice is enticingly warm.
“Jack, this is Rachel Hayward.”
“Nice to meet you, Rachel,” he says enthusiastically, extending his hand out toward me.
I look at it for a moment and glance at Ian. He’s got a stupid look on his face like he’s pulled one over on me. All I think about is how I’m not going to be able to eat anything, and I’m starving. Hesitantly, I take his brother’s hand.
“Nice to meet you also,” I say, trying to be the mature, graceful, young woman. All the while inside, I’m a raving lunatic. “This is a surprise.” Jack doesn’t say anything and turns his attention back to Ian.
“Mom and Dad are waiting for you in the dining room. We’ve got a large table by the window.”
“Great,” Ian says. “We’ll be right in.”
Mom and dad? What trick has he played on me? Jack seems to understand that this is all news to me. He turns and heads toward the dining room leaving us, for a moment, alone in the lobby.
“What is going on?” I say, giving Ian an angry glare.
“It’s my family, Rachel. My mom and dad are celebrating their fortieth wedding anniversary. They drove up from California for the weekend. Jack and his wife flew in from Boston for the occasion. They’re staying here at the inn.”
I can’t believe what he just told me. My stomach balls into a hard knot. I’m livid and scared to death.
“Then why did you bring me here this weekend, when you should be spending it with family?”
“Because, I realized that I wanted you to meet them, and I wanted them to meet you.” His sincere eyes are pleading with me.
“I don’t know if I can do this, Ian,” I say, shaking my head. My body trembles. “I told you how I am eating in front of strangers. You, I can handle, but your brother and parents?” I shake my head again. “This is too much.”
Ian reaches out and grabs my hand. He brings it to his lips and kisses it softly. “You can do this, Rachel,” he encourages me. “I have faith in you. Please, it’s extremely important to me that you meet my family.”
Now he’s beseeching me to relent. I guess that I should be glad he’s decided to introduce me. Does this mean I’m up for approval? Maybe he wants to see their reaction to his crazy girlfriend before he makes a decision as to who gets him for the rest of their life. If this gives me an upper hand on Susan, I should suck it up and go with the flow. I swallow the lump in my throat and draw in a deep breath.
“Okay, for you, but I hope you don’t have any other surprises up your sleeve.”
“Thank you, sweetheart.” He kisses my hand once more and then flashes a smart-ass smile before escorting me to their table.
I’m sure the restaurant’s interior is gorgeous, but I can’t focus on my surroundings. Ian directs me to a large table, and before I can completely collect my wits about me, I’m up for scrutiny before the whole lot of them. I’m trembling in my heels. Thank God, Ian slips his arm around my waist and holds onto me for support.
“Mom, Dad, I’d like you to meet Rachel Hayward.” Ian looks at me and gives me the scoop nodding toward his parents. “Rachel, this is my mot
her Grace, and my father, Bill.”
I smile and my eyes look at his parents. I’m in a daze. I see them, but I don’t see them. I’m on the verge of zoning out. His father stands from the table like a gentleman and gives me a warm, welcoming smile.
“Nice to meet you, Rachel,” he says enthusiastically. “It’s good of you to join us for our anniversary celebration.” He places his hand on his wife’s shoulder and smiles down at his cherished companion. “This is my wife, Grace.”
“Rachel, how nice it is for you to join us this evening.” Her tone is welcoming, and I see in her eyes, what I hope is pleasure, that Ian has brought a date. “Please, I insist that you sit down next to me.”
Grace invites me to the empty chair to her right. His mother’s voice is warm and friendly, and it’s quite obvious where Ian learned his manners. The man grew up in a loving, caring family. I’m in a fantasyland and definitely out of my element amongst these people.
“Rachel,” Jack interjects. “This is my wife, Karen.
I look across the table and see his wife flashing me a warm smile. “Nice to meet you, Karen.” I nod in her direction. She’s very pretty, too, with short brunette hair and a swan-like neck. Karen is dressed in a classy red dress. It’s obvious, by their attire, that they have money. Since Jack is a doctor, I’m not surprised.
“Hello, Rachel, glad you could join us.” She smiles, but I see a curious look in her eye that catches me off guard.
Swiftly, I turn and look at Ian, pleading for his help. He slips his hand underneath the table and grabs mine, rubbing his thumb along the top of my knuckles. I glance at his brother, who is intently watching me. His face is serious, and I’m wondering what has gotten into him. Maybe he doesn’t like Ian’s choice in women.
“So, you have a nice drive up the coast, Dad?”
Ian starts a conversation with his father. A waiter comes up and gives us our menus. The dinner has started, and I’m a basket case.
“Yes, not bad, actually. We took our time and stayed at a few towns on the way. It’s a nice drive this time of year.”
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