Elle’s gaze locked on Brandon as she and Logan arrived at the table. Brandon stood and greeted them as if they were the dearest of friends. His calm demeanor as he waited for Elle to sit shook her to the core. How much evil had to consume you before you attempted to murder a person and then pretend it had never happened?
Logan spoke first. “There’s something we want to tell you, but it comes with a request that it not leave this table.”
“I love intrigue,” Nicki said. “I can keep a secret.”
“As can I,” Brandon agreed.
“Our room was broken into this afternoon. Elle was attacked.” Logan’s tone was flat but not confrontational. “We’ve asked management to keep it quiet until the pass opens and the police can be notified.”
“I’m sorry to hear that. You’re uninjured?” Brandon’s phony look of concern sickened Elle.
She gripped Logan’s knee for strength. “I’m fine.” She couldn’t resist turning her gaze on Brandon. She hoped he got the message that she knew what he’d done.
Logan took over and provided the couple with a brief overview, skipping the method. “It was unfortunate that Elle was in the suite when the burglary occurred,” he lied.
Elle’s chest swelled with pride. Logan’s ability to pretend he believed that the attack on her was a burglary gone wrong was impressive.
“I should move my jewelry to the resort safe.” Nicki twirled the diamond bracelet on her arm, stopped, and covered her mouth with her fingers. “I’m sorry. That sounded selfish. I’m glad you’re okay.”
Elle forced herself to place her hand in Nicki’s. A nod was all Elle could muster. Her mind jumped around, shooting off in different directions. Neither Brandon nor Nicki displayed guilt. In fact, they both appeared to be shocked.
“Let’s drop the subject,” Logan said. “The only thing taken was a laptop. In a few days, we’ll all go separate ways. Let’s enjoy our vacation.”
Elle kept a fake smile plastered on her face. At Brandon’s insistence, she tried to eat, but her stomach rebelled after the first bite. Nicki asked if Elle wanted to move to the bar while the men talked business, but she declined.
Brandon handed Logan a folder filled with pictures, spreadsheets, and recommendations from people who supposedly had reaped great benefits from investing with him. Brandon went into detail about how Logan could easily double his money. The investment required a substantial buy-in, but by linking hotels, resorts, and Logan’s bed-and-breakfasts under one name, the payback would be enormous and fast.
To Logan’s credit, he never lost his persona of interested investor. He studied each page and asked questions. Had Elle been able to speak with him, she’d have pointed out that the entire presentation seemed strained and rushed.
After what seemed to be hours, Logan closed the folder. “It certainly appears to be a no-loss investment. But I need some time to think it over.”
“I understand completely. Noble Pass should reopen soon. Nicki and I have an important client to meet in Chicago, so we’ll be leaving then.”
The corners of Logan’s mouth lifted in a slow smile. “You wouldn’t try to pressure me, would you?”
Brandon’s eyes widened and he laughed. The sound reminded Elle of an old donkey her grandmother used to own. “Not at all. You can call me with your decision. Funds and contracts can be exchanged electronically.”
“Sounds like a plan,” Logan said, turning to her. “I have a few hours of work to do, so if you’re ready.”
“Of course.” She dropped her napkin next to her plate.
“I’m glad you’re okay.” Brandon stood.
“Thank you.” She swallowed the bile building in the back of her throat. “You two should join us on the slopes in the morning. We’re taking it easy. I’m sticking to the beginner’s course.”
“I’m afraid we have to beg off,” Nicki said. “I made massage appointments at the spa.”
Logan’s hand rested on Elle’s lower back as they left the restaurant. The entire experience had wrecked her nerves. She slumped against him once the elevator doors swished closed.
“You didn’t really want them to join us tomorrow.”
“Oh, hell no. I wanted Brandon to believe we didn’t suspect him of attacking me.”
Logan had never seen this side of Elle. Her strength and bravery made his chest hurt with pride. “I’ve never been as proud of anyone as I am of you. You faced that bastard like the best undercover I know.” He kissed the top of her head. “You didn’t eat. I’ll bet you’ll be starving soon.”
Elle turned into his arms and looked up into his dark brown eyes. How little she’d known about the man who’d captured her heart so long ago. He was strong in so many ways. Tonight he’d proven the lengths he’d go to for her.
“I’m starving.” She pulled his head down and kissed him with her heart and soul. His strong arms wrapped around her, lifting her off the floor. The elevator stopped. The ding as the doors opened ended their kiss.
Logan opened the door to the suite, and she pulled him through. Her hands made quick work of his jacket and shirt. Her lips traced the muscles of his bare chest and arms.
Cool air hit her back as the zipper on her dress slid down.
“Remember what I said about that dress?”
Elle stepped back. “Hmm. Let me see.” She wiggled out of the dress. It fell silently to the floor, leaving her wearing a lacy bra-and-thong combo along with her heels. “Something about liking it better off me.” Her skin sizzled as his gaze swept across her body.
“Holy shit,” he hissed, scooping her up in his arms.
Elle couldn’t resist chuckling. “You carry me a lot.”
“Get used to it.” He started to her room.
“I don’t want to ever get near that bed again.”
“I know just the place.” He turned and headed toward his side of the suite.
She nibbled the tip of his earlobe during the few short steps. He put her down, slid his hands behind her back, and unhooked her bra.
“Jesus Christ, woman, I lose track of reality when you get this close.”
His words sent fire streaking through her veins. She kissed him. Hard and demanding. Her tongue surged inside, searching, teasing. His wonderful mouth chased the worries and fear of the day away. He left her lips and worked his way to the base of her jaw.
Without speaking, she slipped off her panties, took his hand, and then pulled him down onto the bed next to her. Elle traced the lines of his hard chest muscles with her tongue, placing small nips as she went. She marveled that he trembled when her fingers kneaded his flesh. Soft and hard. Smooth and strong. Her fingers crossed the ridges of his belly to the waistband of his pants. She slid the zipper down, slipped her hand inside, and found him, silky, huge, and rock hard. He thrust his hips upward, pushing his erection into her grip. His sharp intake of air was exhilarating, stoking her bravado.
“You really need to be naked.”
He didn’t hesitate. He made quick work of his belt and zipper, and in seconds, he lay naked next to her. He took her head in his hands and then dropped kisses across her face and neck. “You are so beautiful,” he whispered into the soft spot at the base of her neck, moving down to her breasts. He pulled a nipple between his teeth, stopped, and smiled at her.
His hand pushed against her thigh, and she spread her legs, a silent plea for more. Dropping his head to her belly, he rained kisses on her trembling flesh. Working lower, he inched down her body, nipping at her flesh, before gently placing a kiss between her legs.
“Oh, God.” She gasped for air. Sensations took possession of her body and mind as his tongue, warm and probing, slipped inside.
He varied his pace, sped up, slowed down, increased and decreased pressure until she thought her entire body would ignite in flames. As she tumbled over the edge, shockwaves rocketed throughout her body. She clasped her hands behind his head, holding him in place while she writhed beneath him, relishing every second of her o
rgasm.
He kissed his way to her stomach and then held her close until her heart slowed. Elle wanted more. “Turn over.”
Logan lifted himself off her. In one swift move, they had swapped positions. She rose and straddled his hips. The desire in his eyes said all she needed to know.
“Condom.” She grabbed his arm for leverage, leaned sideways to wrestle his wallet from his pants, and handed it to him.
He handed the packet to her. Heat poured from his eyes as she rolled the latex down. Elle lifted up on her knees. She took him in her hand and sank slowly down. Inch by inch, she moved until she’d impaled herself on his erection. Elle sat very still as her body adjusted to accommodate him. Desire spread through her body and begged for more. She’d jumped on a runaway train, screaming downhill, out of control.
His gaze locked on hers. “Just let go.”
Logan grasped her hips, sliding her backward, then forward, up and then down. His hips rose as he thrust deep into her body. Again and again until her eyes closed, her head fell back, and she surrendered to the explosion rocketing through her body. He groaned and pulsed inside her.
Elle’s heart was full as she collapsed on his chest. The words I love you rested on the tip of her tongue, but she held them there for only her to know. Relaxed and complete, she closed her eyes, listened as his rapid heartbeat slowed, and drifted off to sleep.
* * * *
Nicki opened the closet door. “Get dressed. Today is a big day.”
Brandon crawled out, stood up, and blinked against the light. She petted his cheek, and he felt the tension drain from his shoulders. Her bad mood had passed, and the love of his life was back. Their session after dinner last night had been particularly violent. The welts on his ass would make sitting uncomfortable, but he didn’t mind. He’d gotten scared and had failed to make sure Elle Reagan was dead. He had deserved the discipline.
“You, my darling,” she said as she selected his clothes for the day, “are brilliant in some ways but stupid in others. Maybe that’s why I love you.”
“I love you too.” He slid on his slacks. “Would you like me to find out if the pass is open?”
“Elle Reagan dies before we leave.”
“But she didn’t access my files.” The minute he disagreed, he wanted his words back. He held his breath, waiting for the explosion. When none came, he breathed easier. He would pay for it later, but for now, she was calm.
“I don’t know what game she’s running, but it ends today.”
Nine
“Hey, sleepyhead. Time to rise and shine.” Logan pushed the hair off Elle’s face and then leaned down to kiss the soft skin behind her ear. “It’s stopped snowing and the sun is shining. I’m ordering breakfast soon.”
She opened one eye, and the corners of her mouth lifted. It was enough to make his heart squeeze and his pants tighten. Her nose wiggled like a rabbit. “Do I smell coffee?”
“Yup. There’s a full cup right here on the nightstand. You might have time to get in a shower before room service delivers breakfast.”
“I’m up.” She raised her arms over her head and stretched. The sheet slipped, exposing the most beautiful breasts he’d ever had the privilege of tasting.
“You’ll be the death of me.” Logan spun on his heel and headed out of the room.
“So you’ve said. Be careful who you give that power to.”
He paused in the doorway. “I trust you with it.”
“And that’s a good thing.” Elle raced past him, naked as the day she’d been born, to her side of the suite.
Logan ordered breakfast, then sat down at the bar. He checked his phone, hoping to find a text or message that at least one of the electronic files had been safely opened. He was also waiting for an email from Eric with information on Cheyenne Forrester. Finding neither, he opened the folder that Brandon had given him last night. Dissecting the documents line by line, Logan looked for any claim or promise of riches. He needed facts that would hold up in a court of law.
Two hands stroked his shoulders. He’d never get tired of having Elle’s hands on him or having her scent wrap around him. A knock on the door pulled him to his feet.
Minutes later, he and Elle were eating breakfast. They chatted about the weather and spending the day enjoying the beautiful mountains. It occurred to him that they sounded much like a married couple on vacation. He had to voice his concern about today.
“You weren’t serious about skiing today, were you?”
“Absolutely. We’re going to enjoy today. Maybe when we get back, we’ll have news about the files.”
He had to be honest with her. “I don’t like it. Don’t forget that someone tried to kill you.”
“I’m not likely to let that slip my mind.” Elle’s head tilted to the side. “You’ll be with me the entire day.”
“You scared Brandon. He may not know why you’re on the hunt, but he’s fully aware you’re nipping at his heels.”
“If you’re going to play the part of a rich guy, we can’t hang out in the room all the time. Our free stay at the castle will be over soon. We’re as safe on the slopes as we are sitting in the coffee shop. We’ll be in broad daylight and surrounded by people.” Elle took a sip of coffee and then stood. “I’ll be ready in a flash.”
Elle quickly dressed for the slopes except for her toboggan, and her heavy outerwear and boots, which were in a backpack. She’d slip them on once they got to the ski desk.
She found Logan already changed and waiting for her. He took her pack and carried it with his.
“Ready?”
She rose on her toes and kissed him. “Just remember, you’re a better skier than me.”
“Stronger maybe but not better.” He reached for the door.
“I’ll get that,” she said. “Your hands are full.”
She led the way to the elevator and pushed the button. Just as the doors opened, his cell chirped. He stepped inside, allowing her to enter.
Logan set the backpacks on the floor, retrieved his phone, and turned the caller ID screen toward her.
“Eric,” she groaned.
Logan nodded, pushed the speaker button, and held the cell so Elle could hear. “You find something on the Forrester woman?” Logan asked.
“She’s had a few brushes with the law. Three arrests for prostitution. No convictions. One of her customers filed a complaint stating that she took their role-playing too far and damn near beat him to death. He later dropped the charges. That was the last time she showed up on our radar. Where’s Elle?”
Eric had changed the direction of the conversation so quickly that Logan and Elle had been caught off guard. A second of silence passed.
“She’s right here. You want to speak to her?”
“No. I want you to keep her out of trouble, but do it at arm’s length.”
“We’ll talk after I get home.”
“Remember me? I know how many hearts you’ve left in your wake. We’ll fucking talk now.”
“Must’ve been because the right woman hadn’t come along. I gotta run.” Logan ended the call. “He may never forgive me.”
“Sure he will. He’s your best friend.”
Logan stuffed his phone back into his pocket. “Interesting stuff about Nicki. That is, if she and this Cheyenne Forrester are the same woman.”
* * * *
The weather outside was cold, brisk even. Elle turned her face upward toward the sun, allowing the rays to seep into her soul. The high winds of the past few days had gone away with the snow, leaving a blanket of white beauty. “The view from the top will be spectacular.”
“No doubt,” Logan said, helping her with her skis at the lift loading ramp. “Ready?”
The brilliance of the day, the sunlight reflecting off his sunshades, and the excitement of skiing with Logan at her side sent her into deep thought. Their future, if they were to have one, would be filled with love and laughter. She refused to think about his job and the chances he took every
day. If he loved her, she could deal with the minutia. A tug snapped her back.
“This is ours.” Logan helped her and then sat next to her. “You look beautiful. The sun loves your skin.”
The lift lurched slightly, and soon they were rising above the ground. The higher they climbed, the more spectacular the view. As the castle grew smaller, her field of vision opened to miles of snow-covered mountains. Skiers dotted the landscape. A quiet peace washed over her. Elle couldn’t keep the truth about her feelings inside any longer.
“Logan.”
A couple of popping sounds rang out. Logan jerked her to him, covering her with his body. The lift chair swung sideways and then tilted, jerking them apart. He grabbed for her, but she went flying through the air. Elle reached for him but found nothing. Her body met the snow-covered mountainside with a hard thud. White flakes flowed over her, covering her face and body. Elle pushed herself to a sitting position. Her ears rang and her back hurt like hell. Fear and worry strengthened her as adrenaline flowed through her body.
“Elle,” Logan’s voice boomed in the open air. “Elle.”
“Here,” she responded. Her panic subsided at the sound of his voice. She fell back, calmer now that Logan was making his way to her.
Logan knelt over her. Concern filled his eyes. “Are you hurt?”
“Nothing serious.” She stood, grimacing at a twinge of pain in her ankle.
“We have to get out of the open. Put your arm over my shoulder. We’re sitting ducks.”
“So that was gunfire I heard?”
“Yeah.”
Logan’s eyes burned with anger as he held her close. The snow was soft powder, and his long legs pushed their way through quickly. His gaze scanned the tree line as he trudged toward the row of pines. “We’ll be harder to spot.” Logan stopped behind a tree and put her down.
Elle tested the ankle. “I’m fine. Nothing’s broken.”
Logan unzipped one of the pockets on his coat and pulled out his cell. He handed it to her. “Call Liam while I take a look around. Tell him about the gunshots and that we’re about halfway up the mountain. He’ll send someone to pick us up.”
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