Two average-looking bimbos jogged by and gave him the once-over. After they ran on, he muttered under his breath, “Not tempting enough for me to give you what you deserve.” Besides, he didn’t like mixing business with pleasure. He had to control that impulse and stay focused on his work at hand.
For now, pleasure would have to wait. After the job was finished, he’d have the money and could get away with whatever he wanted. The rich always walked.
He smiled to himself, thinking that he was nearing his final reward. The police wouldn’t be able to pin the incident on him, wouldn’t even be able to prove the damage to the cable was intentional. Being the consummate professional in his line of work, he had placed containers of acid, normally used to etch the concrete, so they appeared to have tipped accidentally, as if they’d tumbled over in a rainstorm or as if a worker had been careless.
The acid had leaked onto the cable, making Trent Farrington look like he ran a sloppy operation, which was exactly what the boss wanted. Who knew that Trent Farrington himself would nearly be killed by it?
Boats cruised along the winding river. One day soon, his military training and stealth would finally pay off and make him rich. That was his little secret from the boss. Once the job was done, he could extort money from a turnip. Even if his boss had to steal to pay up, he’d get the biggest, fattest paycheck imaginable and maybe more.
He grimaced. Only one problem had arisen—little Kate Meyers. She wasn’t even a real doctor. Lucky for him, he always liked to show up to pay his final respects to his victims. He’d seen her at Matt Jackson’s funeral and had checked her out.
Nosey little bitch, but tempting, too. After she’d been snooping in the company records, he’d had just enough time to plan the little pleasant surprise that he’d left hanging on the fence for her at the construction site. He was surprised she hadn’t run from the company with her tail tucked between her legs.
Brave or stupid—if she didn’t take the hint soon and leave the company––he’d take her out. With pleasure. He might do it sooner rather than later because he didn’t need her as a distraction and he didn’t like to lose control while on the job. But one woman? Was it so risky? And she was a real beauty and would be a special treat. It would be slow and sweet—at least for him.
He chuckled. His prey never enjoyed those tender moments, but that only made his release all the more exciting. Since he had a job to do, he really should fight the urge or deal with it right away so he could relax.
CHAPTER FIFTEEN
Saturday had arrived. While she got ready for her lunch date with Trent, Kate gazed into the bathroom mirror and put in clear contacts. Then she applied makeup with a shaky hand, wanting to look nice for him. Her stomach fluttered as she slipped on dangling earrings and brushed her long hair, leaving it hanging down her back.
Decorated with beads, the lower neckline of her white blouse and the above-the-knee jean skirt, made her feel attractive. A pair of high-heeled sandals complemented her outfit and made her slender figure appear taller.
When the doorbell rang, excitement surged through Kate. She hurried and opened the front door.
At the warmth in Trent’s dark eyes, a tingle ran through her. He was as handsome as usual in his casual shirt and slacks. He grinned and his gaze roved over her. “You look amazing.”
“So do you. Your bandage is gone.”
He flicked his fingers to his head. “But not the stitches.”
Overwhelmed at the reminder of how close they’d come to death, she stepped into his open arms. “We could’ve been killed.”
He hugged her tightly. “Coming close to death makes you realize how precious life is and how much one should value every moment of every day.”
She nodded and buried her face in his muscled chest and breathed in his tantalizing cologne.
Were things moving at a faster pace with them because of their brush with death? Somewhere along the way, she’d grown to care for him, beyond a physical attraction, and didn’t want to lose him now. Her eyes clouded and she choked back a sob.
He cupped her chin, forcing her to look at him. “Why the tears?”
Kate pulled her face away and blinked her eyes. “I can’t believe what’s happened these past two days and that someone might be sabotaging the company!” she blurted out nervously. “It’s scaring me.”
He gave her a quick kiss on the forehead. “Don’t let it.”
“I’ll try not to.”
“You want to go to lunch? If you stay in my arms any longer, I’m not sure I’ll want to leave, and I’m starving. I didn’t have dinner last night, or breakfast.”
Outside, he opened the passenger door for her and she slid inside his black Porsche. They drove to a downtown bistro on the waterfront where he tossed the keys to the valet. “Here, Mike.”
“I’ll take good care of it, Mr. Farrington,” the young man said.
Obviously, Trent frequented this restaurant. She wondered who he had dined with there in the past year.
Outside on the large patio, they were seated at a table overlooking the river and the marina. The day was pleasantly warm and a soft breeze stirred Kate’s hair around her cheeks.
Though the restaurant was crowded, a waiter hurried over and took their orders.
Trent reached across the table and clasped her hand. As she sat staring at him, strong feelings of contentment washed over her. Even though she’d tried not to, she suspected she’d fallen in love with him. How had that happened?
His warm, dark eyes seemed to reflect her own feelings. He stroked his thumb on her palm, sending tingles up her arms. She shivered.
His face turned serious. “I want you to be aware that I think something is going on with Roland and somehow he’s tied into all this. I’ll have to watch him.”
“I’ll help.”
“No. I’m only warning you about him so you’ll be careful…to keep you safe. I don’t trust him. He’s not the person he used to be…not like when we were kids. But somehow he’s involved.”
“What makes you think so?”
“He was asking for money for advertising. I felt like the entire company he was trying to hire was a sham.” Trent caught her gaze. “And I’m asking you, Kate—for my sake, if not for yours—please, no amateur sleuthing.” He rubbed her hand between his warm palms. “Damn it. I wish I knew what we’re up against. We almost died when the elevator fell.”
At the memory, a shudder shook her shoulders. “We were up so high…”
Trent caught her with his gaze. “Tell me. Did something bad happen to you to trigger this fear of heights?”
Now was her chance to tell him the entire, sordid truth about her background. She searched for words, but she’d spent a lifetime burying her memories. To now dredge up the past for Trent to hear and to judge…for her to relive? Nausea overwhelmed her. She wanted to tell him but the words died in her throat.
His face darkened with concern. He squeezed her hand over the table. “Damn it, Kate, what happened to you?”
“Nothing—it’s nothing.” She feigned a laugh, even though her hands were clammy. Used to hiding her feelings, she quickly composed her face. “You know, a lot of people are afraid of heights. I just am.”
He pinned her with a pointed stare. “But not like you. One day, even if it’s no big deal, you’ll tell me?”
She blew out a breath. “Okay.”
The waiter delivered their food. While he savored his meal, she nibbled on her food—chicken—just like herself. At least tell him about your brother, and why you lied to get into the company. If he thinks less of you and hates you, it’s better to know now before you become more involved.
“You’re quiet. What are your thoughts?” he asked after they’d eaten the food.
She swallowed the lump in her throat. “I have something to tell you. Something that might make you not want to see me again.”
He placed his hand over hers and then trailed his fingers along her arm, making her fe
el warm all over. “Tell me what I should know about you that could possibly change my mind.”
“It’s hard enough, but I can’t think when you’re touching me.”
He lifted her hand to his lips. “Good.” He kissed the inside of her wrist, then her fingers. “Because nothing would stop me from wanting to see you. Nothing. Whatever has happened, we all have a past. I don’t care…”
Not like mine. “Trent, I—”
“Damn it to hell,” he said as his gaze shot past her shoulder. “Eden and Cecilia are inside by the windows. My mother’s probably been watching us the entire time.”
Kate stole a quick glance. The two women stared back with pursed lips. The look his mother gave Kate chilled her to her toes.
Turning to Trent, Kate murmured sadly, “I don’t think your mother likes me.”
“I don’t care what she thinks, but I’m sorry if she’s bothering you.” He squeezed Kate’s fingers. “Don’t let her spoil our day? Let’s get out of here.” He gestured to the waiter. “Check, please.”
After paying, Trent led Kate out of the restaurant. While they stood on the stone walkway waiting for the car, the sound of high heels clicked on the pavement behind them.
“Trenton Farrington,” Eden said to their backs in an irritated voice. “I know you saw us. Why didn’t you come over and say something to Cecilia and me?”
When they turned, Cecilia mumbled as if in shock, “The girl from the benefit ball…”
“Or were you too distracted?” his mother asked dryly.
“Why, yes, Mother, we were distracted. Since it’s a holiday weekend, I’ll see you at the office on Tuesday.”
Eden deposited her hands on her hips. “Aren’t you going to at least introduce us to your friend?”
“But you’ve both already met Dr. Meyers,” he answered flatly as the valet drove his Porsche up to the curb. “Good afternoon, Mother. Cecilia.”
Cecilia’s mouth gaped like a fish out of water, and Kate stifled a grin. She wouldn’t have traded that look for anything. She guessed she had a little feminine competitor in herself after all. A smile edged her lips as she slid into the car.
Mrs. Farrington gave her a frosty glare through the window and Kate’s heart skipped a beat. She wanted his mother to like her. Would Mrs. Farrington eventually forgive her for getting in the way of her plans?
Trent drove the car out of the parking lot. “It’s just a short drive to Key West. Since it’s a long weekend, you want to get out of town with me?”
Smiling, Kate shoved away her worries about his mother. “Yeah, sure. I’d love to go.”
A trip with him was a big step, but for once she felt ready to grasp something good in her life.
* * *
After stopping at their respective homes to pack for the trip, Kate settled into the seat of Trent’s car again to enjoy the four-hour trip to Key West. Sometime during this weekend, she’d tell him everything about herself.
When they stopped at a light, he placed his large palm over her slender hand. “Do you believe in fate, Kate?” He chuckled. “Hey, that rhymes.”
She smiled at him. “You were saying?”
“Fate? Kate, do you believe in it?”
“Yeah. I suppose I do.” But it wasn’t always kind. If she’d been fated to meet Trent because her brother died, she would rather have met him some other way.
It was a glorious day for a drive. A string of bridges crossed aqua-blue water and linked tropical islands to the final large island of Key West.
They discussed many subjects, except what she should tell him. There didn’t seem to be an opportunity. She was a little annoyed at herself, but she just couldn’t bring herself to ruin the moment.
He told her about his life, where he’d gone to college—Princeton. He liked motorcycles and mountain climbing. “It’s in my blood. Heights don’t bother me.”
“No wonder you can build those incredibly tall buildings.”
After they arrived on the island, and drove through the small town, Trent parked the car at the entrance to an old Victorian-style hotel.
A white sedan with tented windows pulled in behind them as Kate and Trent got out of his car. The climbed the steps to check into the hotel.
He gave her a pointed look. “One room, Kate?”
“Yes,” she whispered in an excited breath. She was going to take a leap of faith that everything would turn out all right with them. However, once their luggage was wheeled away, nervousness flitted through her.
At the hotel desk, the clerk informed them that the room wouldn’t be ready for another hour.
Trent glanced at her with chagrin. “Could there be any worse timing?” he asked wryly.
She grinned. “Not really. So we have some time to kill? I’ve lived in South Florida all my life, but I’ve never been to Key West. And here we are.”
“Never?”
“No. And it’s beautiful here.” Her self-centered stepfather never spent money to take his family on vacations, but instead he went with his friends to his usual haunts, like Las Vegas. Even though it was illegal and dangerous to leave elementary-aged children alone, he’d stock up the refrigerator and leave Kate and Matt to fend for themselves at home for up to two weeks at a time. She had been glad for the reprieve from her stepfather—and she and Matt became self-sufficient.
Trent grasped her fingers in his warm hand and her thoughts of her selfish stepfather faded away. “Why don’t we walk down Duval Street and get something to eat? I’ll show you around.”
In the warm, breezy air, Kate and Trent ambled down the streets of Old Town already filled with other contented pedestrians. They passed by old houses and shops.
Several squawking roosters ran in front of her and mingled with the crowd. Kate turned to Trent and laughed. “Chickens? In town?”
He smiled. “You can see anything and everything down here.”
Tourists cruised by on mini-bikes and bicycles, occasionally beeping their horns. Kate liked the relaxed atmosphere and loved being on this mini-vacation with him.
Cars whizzed by. The white sedan with the tinted windows drove past. Kate frowned. That was odd. It was the same car that had parked behind them at the hotel and had been there when they’d walked out after checking in, too. Had they been followed? Chalking it up to nerves, she decided to keep a lookout in case she saw the car again.
“Ernest Hemmingway had a home nearby,” Trent said as they made their way down the street.
They stopped at a restaurant and saloon. The band’s music, and the delicious smell of food, wafted through the air.
After they were settled at a table on the patio, Trent held her hand and her gaze. The heat was rising between them. “Taste this, Kate.” He fed her a shrimp, popping it into her mouth.
They savored grouper sandwiches, conch salad, and frozen margaritas, and then strolled out of the restaurant.
Arm in arm, they walked down the sidewalk. “It’s beginning to look like rain. Our room should be ready. Should we go back to the hotel?” Trent asked with a warm gleam in his eyes.
“Sure.” The margaritas had made her lightheaded and more relaxed. Kate forgot about the car. She smiled, blissfully happy, although she was nervous about what would happen once they entered their suite. However, she wanted to make love with him, wanted to take this irreversible step.
Rain burst through clouds in a downpour that battered the rooftops and cooled her skin. Kate laughed as Trent pulled her along to the nearest overhang of a small shop. They were soaked.
Trent rubbed his hands on the thin white gauzy material that covered her arms. “Damn, we didn’t make the hotel, and all I want to do is get you there.”
Two men stepped under the overhang with them to get out of the pouring rain. One man ogled Kate’s chest. She lowered her gaze and realized the wet, gauzy white shirt was nearly transparent. She clamped her arms to cover herself.
Trent pulled her against him. “You do have a problem with the shirt, s
weetheart,” he whispered against the top of her head.
“Problem?” she said lightly. “Not if I’m in your arms.”
He leaned against a wall, taking her with him. “Glad to take care of it.”
Kate wrapped her arms around his back and lingered in his arms. She heard the footsteps of the men as they walked on.
Once they were alone under the overhang, she glanced around his shoulder. “The street is nearly deserted.”
“Ah, so it is.” Trent lifted her chin, dipped his head and kissed her. He tasted like the margaritas they had with dinner.
Heat simmered within her. She molded herself to his muscular body and his hand slipped between them to fondle her breasts. Her nipples tightened, and she thought she would die from his touch through her wet shirt. He made her dizzy with his kisses. She moaned against his lips, while the rain kept a steady beat on the tin roof and the paved street.
In the storm, a couple of teenagers streaked by on skateboards. One shouted, “Get a Room!”
Trent dragged his mouth across Kate’s cheek to her ear and chuckled. “We have one,” he murmured, squeezing her waist. “Maybe we should go there, Kate.”
She giggled.
He smiled, then plundered her lips once more with a long, heart-stopping kiss. Her toes curled.
The rain slackened to a sprinkle.
“Let’s go, Kate. Might as well, we’re already wet.”
The streets were nearly abandoned when they stopped once more in a dark, secluded doorway that jutted in to a closed shop.
He pulled her close and ground his mouth down on hers. Cupping his hands to the sides of her face, he kissed her, their tongues entwining, his taste filling her senses. Warmth rushed to her core. She moaned her desire. She needed him against her, within her. The kiss turned fiery as urgency exploded between them.
Giving his own savage moan, he lowered his warm mouth to her breast and took her nipple through the thin wet fabric of her blouse and bra. Her knees nearly buckled. He returned his lips to hers and pushed up her skirt, putting his knee between her legs. His hand dipped beneath the fabric of her underwear.
Disguised with the Millionaire (Dangerous Millionaires Series Book 2) Page 20