That was the way he wanted it, right? No permanent housemate disturbing his peace, no one else’s belongings lying around or cluttering his bathroom, and no annoying habits to trigger his temper. No fights, no repercussions. No more regrets.
He’d had family and friends for short visits but, since moving in two years ago, he’d never had a woman stay overnight. Had rarely taken anyone upstairs to his bedroom, preferring to keep any intimacy in their homes. His stormy relationship with Tara had far-reaching consequences.
Her statement that she intended to marry a rich man had amused him when they’d met at nineteen. As they’d dated, her craving for attention from him and other men, and her sense of entitlement for anything she took a fancy to, had become tedious. The fights had grown more bitter until that last tragic time when he’d turned his back and let her walk out.
At her funeral, guilt and pain had strengthened his vow to avoid that type of woman, no matter how beautiful, and never, ever lose his temper, no matter what the provocation.
Why did the strict control he maintained on his mind and body slip away whenever he saw, spoke to, even thought about Cassie Clarkson? He had no idea when he would next see her. From Monday, she’d be with her next client.
She and Mel had pencilled in the following week for her to come to Woodcroft. For him, it suddenly seemed like the long wait for Christmas morning.
Gathering up the leftovers and his empty beer bottle, he headed for the kitchen. Once the trash was in the bin, bottle in recycle and the coffee table wiped over, he sprawled on the settee with a finance report. Had to read it twice to take anything in.
* * *
After less than two and a half days with her new employers Cassie found herself wishing for an early end to the project, a very unusual occurrence for her. She couldn’t help comparing the semi-retired couple with most of her other clients.
While they were friendly enough towards her, the air of discord between husband and wife affected her normal relaxed manner. There’d been no warning signs when she’d come to quote on the assignment. It was becoming clear that very little from their overcrowded home would be sold or given away, and she’d bet they’d still be here years from now, each blaming the other for the lack of space.
The ding alerting her to an incoming text was a welcome diversion. Her pulse tripped at the call sign. Jack.
Call me when you are free. Only need a few minutes.
She called immediately, realising the second his phone began to ring that this might seem too eager. Too late to hang up now.
‘I caught you on a break, huh?’
Not from her body’s reaction to the sound of him, or from his image flashing into her mind. It had been four days and seventeen hours since she’d heard his voice.
But who’s counting?
‘A quick one. Is there something you need?’ Was it her imagination or did he groan? His reply was definitely gravel-rough.
‘Are you free to have dinner with Mel and me in the city tonight? She’d like to talk to you.’
‘I’m free but...’
‘Good. Take a taxi and I’ll reimburse you. We’ll drive you home.’
‘I’ll catch an O-Bahn bus, much quicker from home than in traffic.’
‘I’d rather you—’
‘Gotta go. Where have you booked?’ Taxis were an indulgence for special occasions or emergencies, though his protective attitude was endearing. It wouldn’t have surprised her if he’d offered to pick her up.
There was a pained silence for a moment. His disgruntled throaty rumble was followed by the name and address of the restaurant. ‘I’m looking forward to seeing you, Cassie,’ he replied to her thanks in his gravelly voice, leaving her with a racing heartbeat and trembling knees.
She spent the rest of the day pondering the purpose of the meeting while automatically typing lists for her clients. What had changed and why couldn’t it wait until she arrived in Woodcroft on Monday? And why the two of them?
* * *
Selecting what to wear to the classy city hotel that evening was another worry. Her new red dress was out, already worn. She finally settled on mid-grey trousers and a new matching sleeveless buttoned top over a dark blue blouse. Her long black boots would keep her legs warm and weren’t too high for the two short walks ahead.
Spinning away from the image in the mirror, she slipped on her winter coat, picked up her handbag, and huffed. She’d never been concerned what people thought of her clothes or status in life, was proud of the woman she was because of Mum’s guidance. But then she’d never been wined and dined by the upper echelon of Adelaide until last week.
* * *
Cassie arrived at the venue two minutes early, and was told her hosts were already seated. She was escorted to their round table adjacent to the balcony, and Mel’s open arms drew her into a hug. She instinctively answered with a soft kiss on her hostess’s cheek then moved round to where the maître d’ waited, holding her chair.
As she sat, her foot touched Jack’s stretched out leg under the table. He made no acknowledgement so, thankfully, he mustn’t have felt anything. The glow of his welcoming smile sparked a fire in her belly, spreading heat along her veins, and she couldn’t control the delicious vibration that followed. He and Mel already had pre-dinner drinks. She declined, thanked the waiter who filled her water glass and took a soothing mouthful.
‘You look beautiful, Cassie. Thank you for coming.’ Jack raised his glass in salute, and any cooling effects from the icy liquid were instantly negated by the burning admiration in his dark green eyes.
She looked the same as last Wednesday, so how had she evolved from nice to beautiful?
‘I concur,’ Mel chipped in. ‘I’d love to have worn some of the fashions around today when I was young.’
‘From what I’ve been told, you were right at the forefront of whatever was trendy, Mel.’ Jack tipped his glass towards her. ‘And photos I’ve seen show you carried it with flair.’
‘Flatterer.’ Mel tapped his hand, and they grinned at each other. ‘Now, I hope you don’t mind, Cassie, we’ve already ordered a bottle of Semillon. It’s my favourite with fish and I fancy the grilled whiting tonight.’
The menu choices were comprehensible so why didn’t Cassie’s brain process them? Could it be the tantalising aroma of an exotic cologne teasing her nostrils, and the brush of an ankle against hers, stirring her blood? She daren’t meet Jack’s gaze, found it hard to breathe, and gave a husky response to the waiter’s offer of wine.
She sipped the pleasantly crisp-tasting Semillon as they discussed starters, wishing she had a better knowledge of South Australian grown wines. The consensus was for a shared dip plate entrée; Jack ordered salmon, and Cassie veal scaloppine.
She handed her menu to the waiter, reassembled her jumbled thoughts and spoke to Mel. Sensing Jack’s intensity, she forced a light, casual tone. ‘I appreciate being invited to dinner, and I’m sure I’ll enjoy every course, but why am I here?’
Mel answered. ‘My granddaughter’s husband phoned this morning. The specialist is concerned about the baby’s growth so she’s admitted Janette for monitoring, and mentioned the possibility of being induced. Janette’s asked if I’ll go over, though I’m not sure how much help I’ll be.’
‘Immeasurable, just by being there,’ Cassie said. Her indomitable presence and optimistic outlook on life made her the heart and spirit of every generation of the family. Cassie knew because she’d lost the one who’d provided that essence for her.
Jack made a silent vow to thank Cassie for her insight when they were alone. As he covered his aunt’s hand with his and squeezed, endorsing those few accurate words, he smiled at Cassie, letting her see his gratitude.
‘Cassie’s right, Mel. We don’t acknowledge it enough but we all depend on your help and advice.�
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Mel’s eyes glistened with emotion and he swore never to take her being there for granted again.
‘And my baking.’
They all laughed, though he noticed Cassie’s lips didn’t quite make a full smile. The sparkle in her eyes had dimmed.
‘So you’d like to postpone our arrangement. Not a problem. We can reschedule once you’re home.’ Matter-of-fact tone. Business mode.
He couldn’t fathom the reason for her sudden mood change. She’d told them postponements weren’t unusual so why...? Without warning, his heartbeat revved up and anticipation surged. Could it be because any delay meant not seeing him? That sounded egotistical but there was no denying the attraction between them.
He concentrated on Cassie’s face for her reaction as Mel explained.
‘Not exactly, dear. I’d just like to alter the conditions. Would you consider house-sitting for me, and doing an inventory of each room while you’re there?’
It was like watching a flame flicker into life as Cassie’s eyes widened in surprise then glowed. She made no sound. Her lips opened, forming a perfect O, and her fingers slipped down the stem of her wineglass and fanned out on the white tablecloth. He imagined them splaying across his chest as he covered her tempting lips with his mouth.
‘Are you sure? There must be a family member who’d be happy to move in while you’re away. I’d never even stayed overnight on a job until you invited me.’
She was so delightfully bemused, he ached to take her in his arms and reassure her. His own instant elated response had surprised him, made him re-examine his attitude. Cassie’s appeal was different to any woman he’d known but his vow to never form a lasting relationship was absolute. She might not judge a man by his financial standing but proximity could reveal faults and weaknesses.
His aunt’s proposal included him calling in regularly to give her support, day-to-day domestic contact when true character couldn’t be suppressed for long. But he’d kept his quick temper under control for nine years, wouldn’t risk losing it ever again.
‘No one’s available at such short notice,’ Mel replied. ‘You’ve already allocated me next week, and I won’t be a distraction while you work. If you have to leave for your next contract, Jack will arrange something.’
Cassie turned towards him and he gave her an encouraging smile.
‘It’ll be similar to your normal life, except listing and living will be in the same building, and you’ll be dog-minding as well. Plus there’s the added attraction of me being available any time you need help.’
He arched his eyebrows in an attempt to make her laugh and succeeded. That was when he realised how much he’d missed the rippling effect her musical sound created in his body.
Their dips and assorted breads arrived and, as they sampled and compared tastes, they discussed Cassie’s moving in and the order of rooms to be inventoried. Jack sensed Cassie’s enthusiasm overrode her apprehension. She really loved the career she’d chosen.
His career was about to veer onto the new path he’d planned from the beginning. The downside was that suits and corporate meetings would inevitably replace hands-on repairs and maintenance. But he’d willingly keep doing handyman jobs for Mel and his family.
‘My sister Val is travelling with Mel tomorrow; she’s happy for any excuse to catch up with relatives, and shop in Melbourne. Sam can come with me until you move in.’
‘I’ll finish my current job late Friday morning.’ Her eyes met his, now bright and shiny, open and honest. ‘Should be able to leave home mid-afternoon.’
‘I’ll arrange my work so I can meet you at the house with the keys. Call me when you’re ready to head off.’
He topped up the women’s wine, the residue making up his limit for driving. Now the main objective of the evening had been accomplished, he could devote his time to entertaining them.
He cajoled both of them into ordering rich calorie-laden desserts, claiming he couldn’t resist and he’d feel guilty eating alone in front of them. And emphatically dismissed Cassie’s suggestion she take a taxi home.
‘I’d be scolded all the way home if I allowed it. Apart from being ingrained behaviour—’ he grinned at Mel ‘—it’ll be my pleasure.’ Arching an eyebrow, he reminded Cassie of his statement when he’d invited her out before.
Cassie conceded to his request, or rather insistence, with a smile. When he went to fetch his ute, she complimented his good manners.
‘I’ll admit to enjoying being spoilt and cosseted occasionally. Especially so smoothly.’
Especially by Jack.
Mel laughed. ‘Doesn’t every woman? I’ve always tried to instil respect for others in the younger generation. Some of the boys were more challenging than others, but thankfully they finally matured.’ She gave a beaming smile. ‘I’m proud of each and every one of them.’
She didn’t need to state the obvious but it was what she hadn’t said that interested Cassie. How bad boy had Jack been, and what had caused him to re-evaluate his life?
CHAPTER TEN
CASSIE CLIMBED INTO the driver’s side of the rear bench seat as Jack helped his aunt up into the front of his ute. Her fingertips twitched with longing to smooth his unruly brown hair, within her reach. Closing her eyes, she pictured his suntanned, work-rough hands, so competent on the wheel, so heart-stopping when he touched her.
She slipped into a dream world of physical contact, those first zings over her skin, his lean fingers linked with hers as they’d strolled after dinner, and their oh-so-magical dance that she relived every night as she fell asleep. Even the mere memory sent a tingling glow from her toes to her scalp. Her eyelids dropped and her head sank forward.
A blast of rap music from a passing car startled her awake, wrenching her head up. Blinking to clear her blurry sight, she looked into the rear-vision mirror, into piercing green eyes. One quick glance from him was all it took to have her feeling vulnerable, as if all her secrets were open for him to read.
How could one look make her tremble? Had there been time to shutter her thoughts? Maybe house-sitting with him living nearby and popping in any time wasn’t such a good idea. Scrap that, no maybe about it. She could only hope his work, family and friends kept him occupied, and that she had the strength to politely keep him at arm’s length.
The house lights were on when he stopped in her driveway; he placed a finger on his lips, nodding towards a sleeping Mel. He left the engine running as he alighted, pushed his door almost shut and opened Cassie’s as she reached for the handle. She had no choice but to accept his proffered hand, and didn’t resist when he edged her towards the rear of the vehicle, closing her door.
Her unbuttoned coat fell open as he leaned in, placing his hand on the roof of his ute. Even without contact, the heat from his body seared her skin through their clothing. She tried to draw in air, tried to swallow. Tried to remember Mel was nearby.
‘Thank you for agreeing to house-sit. It’ll be one less worry, and she can relax and enjoy her stay in Melbourne.’
He spoke quietly, his breath tickling her earlobe and his lips brushing her hair. Her heart pounded and her lips tingled. A slight turn of her head would put them within kissing range. Exactly what her illogical side wished for while sensible reasoning feared the consequences.
‘It’s...not...a problem.’ She didn’t seem able to talk and think rationally at the same time, forced herself to focus. ‘I’d better go in so you can take her home.’
‘Mmm. You’re right.’ He inhaled through his nostrils, but made no attempt to move away. ‘Cassie...’ Deep and rich, resonating through her.
A motorbike roared past and his head jerked up. Passion and rational thought warred in his dark green eyes, thrilling her even as it triggered alarm bells. She squeezed her eyes shut and curled her fingers. Getting involved would surely end
in pain.
So why did she feel cold and alone when he stepped away, craning his neck to check on his aunt. Cassie wrapped her coat tight, skirting past him to the driver’s window, from where she could see Mel stirring.
When she opened her eyes and smiled, Cassie went round to say goodnight, and thank her for the evening. Mel let the window down so she could hear.
‘You enjoy your time with Janette and the baby when he or she arrives. And don’t worry about Sam. I’ll walk him every day and take care of your home as if it were mine.’
‘I’m sure you will.’ Mel kissed her cheek. ‘Take care of Jack too. Like all men, he thinks he’s immune to human frailties.’
His attitude implied that she was correct as he leant casually on the bonnet waiting. The fluttering in her abdomen, and the ache to have him wrap his arms around her and kiss her senseless, proved she certainly wasn’t.
As if there was the slightest chance he would with Mel watching.
‘Goodnight, Jack. Thank you for bringing me home. I’ll see you on Friday.’
‘Goodnight, Cassie. Sweet dreams.’
She kept her back straight as she walked away from him, the warm prickling on the back of her neck proof he watched every step. Fighting the temptation to look towards him before closing the door, she pushed it shut, listening until the engine noise died away.
Cleansing off her make-up, she weighed up the pros and cons of her acceptance. And resolved to cope with the way he affected her because it was never going to be a happy ever after. Their worlds were too different. They were too different.
She slipped into bed, fully aware that, no matter how hard she tried to think of something—anything—else, her sweet dreams would be of him.
* * *
Jack watched until the door closed behind her, wondering if she’d dream of him. And who had been peeking through the curtains.
Her light fragrance hung in the air, teasing him. The chilly air had cooled his skin; the fire in his gut still blazed. The aroused male wanted to hear her say she was free, there was no one in her life. The flawed man whose decisions were even now sometimes governed by the consequences of that snowfield trip had an aching feeling it might be better for both of them if she wasn’t.
Captivated by the Enigmatic Tycoon Page 9