‘What do you think? Walking Sam’s given me an appetite, so I hope you brought enough.’ She shivered as a few raindrops fell on her head. ‘Come on, Sam.’
She moved towards the house. The dog hesitated, looked up at him then took off.
He grabbed the bags from the front seat, and caught up in time to open the door for Cassie. A hint of peaches hung in the air as she passed him, sweet as the ones from the tree at the bottom of the garden. Mentally telling himself to get a grip, he followed her, nearly tripping on the eager dog who’d stopped to shake off the rain.
CHAPTER FIVE
CASSIE WASHED HER hands before following Jack into the lounge, where Mel was waiting with a pot of freshly brewed coffee. She heard him tease her for insisting they ate from the wrappers.
‘Fast food always tastes better this way. I have great memories of sitting on the beach, eating fish and chips from butcher’s paper and fighting off the seagulls.’
‘It was always fun, wasn’t it? We’ll do it again when the weather clears. Today it’s indoor chores.’
The tenderness in his voice, and the way his features softened with affection as he spoke to his great-aunt, caused a lump in her throat. Moments like the ones they referred to were a major part of her treasured memories.
She stared through the window, remembering the unconditional love she and Mum had shared, so much joy and few regrets. The past couldn’t be changed. Today was the time that mattered, and she had a task for Jack if he was willing.
‘I noticed some of the light fittings are dusty, Jack. Do you have the time to clean them?’
‘Checking lights comes under downsizing?’ A sceptical look accompanied his gentle dig.
‘Under due diligence and caring, a courtesy for clients. In your line of work, you should know most people don’t notice the grime until they have to replace the bulbs or tubes.’
‘True. Consider all the house fittings on my list.’
The three of them chatted about the house and garden as they ate, and Cassie learned how Bob had relished teaching the younger generation the tool and gardening crafts that Jack had turned into a profession. That his father had wanted him to study law and become his uncle’s partner didn’t surprise her; his telling her did.
Mel’s mobile rang, and she answered. ‘Well, you know I’d love to normally but at the moment...’
Cassie tapped her arm.
‘Hang on, Dot.’ Mel held the phone to her chest. ‘The Mortons have invited me to go with them and visit a friend in Murray Bridge for her birthday.’
‘Say yes.’
‘I can’t. It’s overnight and you’re here. We’ve got...’
‘Other days for sorting. Say yes.’
She was aware of Jack’s shoulders straightening and his head snapping back, let it slide. No chance for even a moment of happiness should ever be missed. Mum was proof the future was unpredictable.
‘Are you sure?’ Mel glanced from her to Jack, who nodded. For Cassie, her grateful smile was worth rearranging her schedule.
After accepting the invitation, Mel switched off her phone and sank back in her seat looking a little dazed.
‘They’ll be here at nine-thirty.’
Jack lifted the coffeepot to refill her cup. ‘Packing for one night won’t take long, so you’ve got plenty of time to finish your meal.’
She stopped his action and laughed. ‘Not advisable before a long car trip.’
‘Cassie?’ He held up the pot and smiled, making her pulse blip. As soon as she’d finished labelling the outfits Mel had selected, and listed everything, she’d leave. On Friday there’d be her and her employer and no heart-melting distraction.
* * *
The Mortons were punctual, and the rain had eased to a drizzle as they settled Mel into the back seat of the car and waved goodbye. Cassie shook off the drops from her hair before re-entering the house, trying not to dwell on being alone with Jack. This morning his cologne was fresher, more enticing, and hard to ignore from right behind her.
‘Thank you, Cassie. She’ll have a great time, hasn’t been out much, apart from with family, for a while.’
His voice was deeper, as if emotional. Giving her hair a final flick with her fingers, she let her hands fall to her sides as she looked up into speculative green eyes. Did he still harbour suspicion of her after their talk last night? Better for them both if he did and kept distance between them.
‘It’s no big deal. Would you like me to prepare something for lunch later?’
‘That’ll be great. I’ll get my tools and start upstairs; you can select the music.’ He paused as if to add something, dropped his gaze to her lips for a moment then walked out.
There were few modern CDs in Mel’s collection of film soundtracks, classical and compilations. She chose one with familiar songs, a favourite old movie of Mum’s.
Although she couldn’t see Jack, soft sounds filtered down from the second floor, disturbing her concentration. She chastised her heart for beating faster at the thought of him standing on his steps in the bathroom to clean the fluorescent lights. She knew how easily the tubes shattered and how sharp the shards could be. There was no logical reason to worry. He was a competent tradesman and could take care of himself.
* * *
Taking extra care had nothing to do with Jack’s competency. He was alone in the house with the most distracting woman he had ever met. She’d kept him awake last night and invaded his dreams when he’d finally fallen asleep.
Cassie was a mystery the pragmatic part of his temperament was determined to solve. How, he hadn’t figured out yet. Getting too close might be painful for them both. On the surface, she was bright and open, but behind her incredible dark brown eyes lay painful secrets.
As long as they didn’t affect her employment with Mel he shouldn’t give a damn. Yet he did. He wanted to know why sorrow veiled them from view, why she turned away when he and his aunt shared fun moments. To know why an attractive, intelligent twenty-seven-year-old woman had chosen a profession that basically limited her clientele to the older generation.
He focused on reattaching the light fitting in the back bedroom, checked all bulbs lit up, and grinned as a song he hadn’t heard for a long time drifted up the stairway. He made a mental note to show Cassie where the switches were for the speakers he’d installed on the second floor so she could listen while working up there.
She obviously shared the same taste in music as Mel and Bob. This house had rarely been silent and he’d subliminally learnt the lyrics of so many musicals, sometimes causing him embarrassment in front of his teenage friends.
Now he was secure in who and what he was, and didn’t care who heard him. Mel was well on the way to being fully fit and socially active. The investment he was negotiating was on track. On the negative side were the possible sale of the house and his Cassie-activated libido. Somehow, he’d come to terms with both problems.
He picked up his folded steps and toolkit and headed for the next room, singing along with the rousing action hero.
* * *
Something was different. It took Cassie a minute or so to realise it was Jack, singing along with the CD in an assured pleasant tone as he moved from room to room upstairs. She couldn’t prevent her imagination picturing him taking the lead, and gliding across the screen with the beautiful heroine.
She moved along the clothes racks, lightly brushing the garments, loving the different fabrics, the smooth silks and satins, the elaborate brocades and the delicate lace designs. None showed signs of wear, all hung beautifully as if new; such a difference to some of her chain store brand purchases. It was time she added a few quality items that would never date her wardrobe.
She appreciated these were not just clothes. This was a timeline spanning many years of happy marriage. Whe
n originally bought, each outfit represented a birthday, an engagement or wedding, a business celebration. Every piece held memories; now they’d create new ones for delighted buyers who’d dreamt of owning designer quality.
The romantic love songs playing in the background suited her mood. In her mind, she could see the colourful costumes twirling from enthusiastic dancing, and Jack swinging the heroine off her feet and spinning her round.
Believing he wouldn’t hear, she felt confident enough to sing softly, letting herself be drawn into the magic. Keeping time, she almost skipped into the kitchen for a glass of water prior to settling to input her handwritten notes into the computer.
She drank slowly, watching the rain fall on the well-tended garden. This was a peaceful home, a haven of love and sharing. The current song ended in a crescendo then silence, and she recalled the hero dipping his head to kiss the heroine in that quiet moment.
Without warning, the hairs on her nape stood up, tingles skittled down her spine. She pivoted to confront Jack in the doorway with a wide grin on his handsome face. He’d heard her singing. Warmth flooded her cheeks, and the urge to run was stymied by an overwhelming desire to see what he’d do next.
Pinning her with riveting green eyes, he walked forward as the introduction to the next song started. Cassie froze. This was a hero’s serenade. A half step back and she was pinned between his mesmerising gaze and the sink behind her.
Captivated, she allowed him to take her hand and draw her closer, caught her breath as he placed his free hand on her waist and led her into a dance. He guided her with gentle expertise, and she followed as if they’d been partners for ever. His eyes gleamed like the rain-kissed leaves outside, and his work-rough palm gently grazed hers, evoking tiny quivers that radiated and grew.
Like a prince and princess in a fairy tale they glided around the floor, her heart beating time with the music. The heady mixture of male and sandalwood heightened her senses. The soft pressure of his thigh against hers as they spun and twirled stirred new and thrilling sensations.
Even beautiful dreams had to end and theirs came too soon. They stilled, eyes locked and bodies swaying to unheard music. His lips parted, his head bent towards hers.
A new song, rough and loud, by the whole male cast, ruptured the silence and severed the spell that bound them.
* * *
Jack moved away from Cassie, his hands reluctant to break the connection, his body craving closer contact. Her quiet singing had drawn him from the second floor, with no concept of his intent.
He’d known the second she’d become aware of him, and couldn’t stop the smile from forming as she’d turned. Her beautiful, sparkling brown eyes had widened with uncertainty, a sweet blush coloured her cheeks and her mouth formed an O as she sucked in an unsteady breath.
His heart had hammered on the short journey across the room and his stomach tightened in anticipation of an energy zap like last time they’d touched. Today he fully intended to hold on, discover where it led.
The opening chords had sounded as he’d reached for her hand, and he’d relished the zing that sizzled along his veins. With his free hand on her waist, he’d begun to waltz her around the kitchen, keeping steady eye contact. Mentally he’d harmonised with the love-struck singer.
His heartbeat had surged as Cassie synchronised with his steps. They and his guidance were automatic; his mind and body were totally focused on the woman in his arms. Soft and pliant, she’d moulded to his form, her peach scent beguiling.
The music ended, and he couldn’t let go. Her eyes had invited and he’d accepted, bending his head towards her.
A loud, raucous drum roll filled the air, followed by grating unintelligible words. Cassie blinked as if startled, and arched away. He shuffled back, delayed letting go as long as possible. Once he did, this magical moment would be over.
She seemed as dazed as he felt, her arms limp at her sides and her chest rising and falling in agitation. She swallowed, had difficulty speaking.
‘It’s... I... You want coffee?’
Way down on his list. Why the hell couldn’t he form coherent words? He’d had no trouble singing someone else’s.
‘Give me five minutes. See you in the lounge.’ He walked out, trying to remember where he’d been heading, and why, when he’d heard her singing.
* * *
The seven minutes he took allowed Cassie to regain composure and perspective, at least on the outside where it showed. She’d been caught up in a fantasy, beguiled by his charisma, lost in the moment. In future, she’d be prepared and resist him with dignity and grace.
Who are you kidding? Your resolve will crumble at his slightest touch.
So she’d avoid contact while she finished the tasks agreed with Mel earlier. Hopefully he’d have prearranged activities elsewhere on Friday, and that would be her last day until the next session here.
Mum had always stressed the importance of decorum. An achievable state until he walked in with sombre eyes and a rueful smile, and her pulse dumped composure for roller coaster speed. He picked up his steaming mug and settled into the armchair as if it were made for him. Sam curled at his feet, making a perfect picture of master and faithful hound.
English was a vast language so why was her mind blank of a conversation opener?
What would you like for lunch? Thank you for the dance. It was heaven in your arms.
‘I’m sorry.’
His words hit like a soccer punch to her stomach and she recoiled, pressing into the cushions. She squeezed her eyes shut and dug her nails into her palms. He regretted the moment she’d always treasure.
‘No.’ Clunk. The two sounds were simultaneous.
Her eyes flew open. Jack thrust forward, hands spread in appeal. His mug was on the table surrounded by splashes of coffee.
‘Not for the memorable dance. I’m sorry if I’ve made you feel uncomfortable, Cassie. That was never the intention, though I have to admit I’m not sure what was.’
Her pain dissolved in the warm glow that soothed as it radiated from her abdomen. He’d enjoyed what they’d shared. It had been one of life’s inexplicable happenings which must never recur.
She tried to justify her own response. ‘Getting caught up in the music. Having all that open space. But you’re related to my employer so I should have refused.’
His fingers gripped the chair arms, his lips thinned and his eyes narrowed. ‘Are you sorry, Cassie?’
‘No, it was...’ How could she describe her feelings without revealing her vulnerability?
She sprang to her feet. ‘As you said, memorable. A spur of the moment, one-off event. I’ll get a cloth to wipe the table.’
It was as if her muscles gave a sigh of relief as she quickened her pace to the kitchen. On the slower return trip, she ran task-related topics through her head.
* * *
Jack’s mind ran a similar course in a methodical manner, at odds with his erratic emotions. He adored Mel, and would never do anything that might embarrass or hurt her. Coming on to the woman she’d hired to help her move on in her life definitely came under that banner.
Cassie’s words indicated a strict code of work ethics, so she’d be as spooked by the attraction that flared between them as he was, and seemed as powerless as he to resist.
His desire to learn more about her was undeniable. His gut feeling said whatever she hid didn’t necessarily relate to her profession. That was really none of his business; he had secrets of his own he’d never shared with anyone.
It didn’t stop him avidly waiting for her to reappear, for his muscles tensing and his heart skipping beats when she did. Remorse shamed him as she knelt by the table to mop up. She’d raced from the room before he had the chance to say he’d go.
‘My mess; I should be cleaning it. Thank you, Cassie.’
<
br /> ‘You’re welcome. Do you want a refill?’ She smiled, and his breath caught in his throat. He’d almost kissed those delectable lips today, couldn’t guarantee not to if the chance arose again.
‘No, this will do.’ He drank almost half in one swallow. ‘What’s your next task?’
‘Bring down Mel’s footwear, list, label and double-check everything. Then I’ll go home.’
Rapid control prevented another coffee spill, this time on himself. ‘Why?’
‘Because it’ll be easier if everything’s in one room. There’s stickers and she can—’
‘I get that. Why are you going home?’
‘I’ll have done all I can without her being here. She can make decisions at leisure tomorrow, and when I come back on Friday I’ll finalise her lists and print out copies.’
His breath caught in his throat, trapped by the lump that clogged his air passage. There’d be no telling when he’d see her again. For someone who’d rarely had a problem swaying opponents to his point of view, he was confounded by his inability to reply.
A fruitless search for her on social media before retiring last night had irked but not discouraged him. Offering to recommend her services would provide him with her number, and save him having to explain why if he asked Mel.
‘So I’d better get started. Does lunch at one suit you?’
Lunch? It didn’t help that she was so eager to leave. How had life become so complicated in less than twenty-four hours?
‘Yeah, one’s fine.’ He watched her walk out, glared at his coffee mug as if it were responsible then drained it. Couldn’t figure why he was annoyed at himself.
He stooped to ruffle Sam’s fur. ‘Come on, Sam.’ Pushing himself to his feet, he headed back upstairs, the dog close behind him.
CHAPTER SIX
CLEANING LIGHT FITTINGS and replacing globes was routine for Jack, needing care without much concentration. If he encouraged Cassie to talk about her work over lunch, she might inadvertently divulge more about herself. Personal questions needed a different atmosphere. The spark of an idea grew into a full plan.
Captivated by the Enigmatic Tycoon Page 5