BOSS_His Wealth. His Power. His Demands.

by Maggie Carpenter

  "Up on your hands and knees. Quickly. I need to get moving."

  "I thought you said we were going to have a lie-in."

  "We did. It's nine-fifteen already."

  "That's not a lie-in."

  "It is for me, and I suspect it is for you too."

  "Maybe, but this is so nice."

  "Colleen," he said, lowering his voice. "I'm giving you fair warning. You don't want me to repeat an instruction."

  "You can be very difficult sometimes," she grumbled, rolling off him and placing herself on all fours.

  "Me? I'm difficult?" he exclaimed, rising up beside her and circling her waist with his arm. "You really do like to push the envelope, don't you? I'm going to ask some questions and you're going to answer them truthfully. Ready?"

  "What sort of questions?"

  "Stop it!" he scolded, landing a hot smack on her sit spot.

  "Ouch! Sorry."

  "Was there a plumber who dropped everything to come to your rescue?"

  "Uh…no."

  "I didn't think so," he said, delivering several hard slaps. "Do you actually need plumbers to come to your house?"

  "No."

  As his hand blasted across her bottom, she squealed loudly, writhing in his hold.

  "If I'd offered to come by and see the damage, what would you have said?"

  "I'm not sure," she whimpered. "I loosened things under my kitchen sink and in the guest bathroom. There's water all over the floor, and it leaks like crazy when you turn on the faucets."

  "Why bother?"

  "So there'd be something to show you if I needed to."

  "Anything else I should know?"

  "My heart was in the right place. I knew you wanted me, but you were fighting it. I had to do something."

  He paused. She had a point, but it didn't justify the deception.

  "Bear in mind this spanking would be much harder if you hadn't told me, and these things have a way of getting out."

  Though she was yelping through his hot slaps, she was deliriously happy. Throughout her life she'd been able to lead men around by the nose. Even her college boyfriend had been a pushover. But not Tony McIntyre.

  Staring down at her bright red skin and glistening pussy, Tony pushed all thoughts of work to the back of his mind. Retrieving a condom from his nightstand he quickly slipped it in place, then flipping her over, he lowered his body on top of her. Pinning her arms above her head, he began teasing her lips with the tip of his tongue. She tried to raise herself up to chase his kiss, but he held her down, then slowly, lovingly, languidly, he glided his mouth over hers. Their kiss became fervent, and releasing one of her wrists, he moved his hand to his cock, held himself at her entrance, and snaked his way home.

  "Why do you feel so good?" she moaned, lifting her legs around his back.

  "Chemistry," he whispered, nuzzling her neck. "We've got amazing chemistry."

  He stroked her lustily, slowing to suck in her nipples, then resumed his powerful pumping. He was lost in her feminine fragrance, the feel of her warm, wet sex and her joyous moans, but the sudden, annoying buzzing of his phone reminded him he had a company to run. Resting on top of her, he moved his hands under her hot bottom, clutched her cheeks, and rode her into their orgasms. As their spasms subsided, they clung to each other for a moment, then rolling off her, he picked up his phone to see who had called.

  "Shit. It's David. We must have a problem."

  "Don't you always?"

  "Yep. That's my job, solving problems, and speaking of solving problems, I want to get something straight."

  "Now what have I done?"

  "Nothing," he said softly, propping himself up on an elbow and smiling down at her. "I think you're beautiful, all of you, and that includes your sometimes devilish mind. I wish I could stay in bed with you for the rest of the day, but I need to get moving, and you do too. Your boss has given you a demanding deadline."

  "Don't remind me, and I'm sure my staff is wondering where I am."

  "Don't let me forget to show you how the gate works, and the other alarms as well."

  "Alarms? Plural?"

  "If one fails, or if someone thinks it's disarmed, the other one kicks in. It seemed extreme when I had it installed, and I was right. I've been here two years and haven't even seen a lost dog. This place is impenetrable."

  "Except for last night."

  "I didn't see anything."

  "Tony, I have excellent hearing. I heard an engine. I'd swear to it."

  "Maybe it was a low-flying plane."

  "I don't think so. Listen, do you hear that?" she said, sitting up. "That's a car."

  "I do. It's Rosemary. Let's take a shower together. It'll save time," he said, sliding from the bed and taking her hand.

  "I'd love that, but are you sure? Slippery soap, naked skin…"

  "You're right. I'll never want to leave. I'll go first, or you can use the bathroom in the guest room where you left your bag."

  "Good idea," she said, then softening her voice, she added, "Thank you for yesterday and last night. It was amazing."

  "It was just the beginning, cutie pie," he replied, leaning down and kissing her. "Damn, you're an evil temptress. Has anyone ever told you that?"

  "Yep. Just now."

  "Get out of here," he exclaimed, yanking her up and slapping her butt.

  "Okay, okay."

  Quickly pulling on her T-shirt, she hurried from the room, and as he watched her disappear into the hall, he stood for a moment pondering the remarkable turn of events. He'd fought the attraction, but it was one battle he was very happy to have lost.

  ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

  Tony's first stop when he arrived at his building was David Copeland's office. Returning David's call from his car on his way into town, Tony had learned there was a problem with the original contract Colleen had signed with the Pink Petticoat boutique chain. As David had started to explain, Tony had asked him to hold back the details until he arrived.

  "Good Morning, Mr. McIntyre," David's secretary said, flashing him a warm smile. "How are you?"

  "Excellent, thank you, Jackie. Is he in?"

  "Yes, sir. Can I bring you some coffee?"

  "No thanks."

  Striding past her, he gave a quick knock and pushed open the door. David's head jerked up.

  "I don't know what Colleen was thinking," David exclaimed, picking up a document from his desk and waving it in the air. "We need to renegotiate this deal from the ground up."

  "So you said on the phone, but I don't understand why I'm here. Can't you start the ball rolling?"

  "I did. On Thursday they sent over their suggested amendments."

  "Colleen showed them to me over the weekend, but I didn't read them in depth. I was planning to do that on the plane."

  "Don't bother. This morning I received a call from Bob Harrison, the C.E.O. He said if we don't abide by the original deal he'll take us to court. What a rude asshole he was. He even said to me—I know you think I'm an asshole, but I don't give a shit."

  "Get him on the phone and put him on speaker," Tony said solemnly. "He doesn't know what the word asshole means, but he's about to find out."

  As David placed the call he couldn't suppress a smile. He'd seen his boss transform from the personable Tony McIntyre, to the ruthless, cut-throat businessman, and Bob Harrison was about to get a black eye.

  "Pink Petticoats. How may I help you?"

  "Put me through to Bob Harrison's office."

  "One moment please."

  "Robert Harrison's office."

  "David Copeland calling."

  "Hold, please."

  "When can I expect the documents back?" Bob Harrison's gruff voice demanded. "I need to wrap this thing up. I've had enough of this fucking around."

  Tony had been sitting down, but abruptly rising to his feet, he rested his hands on David's desk and leaned over the phone.

  "Mr. Harrison, Antony McIntyre here. First, don't ever speak to any member of my
staff that way ever again. Second, all business ties with your company are now severed. Third, if you want to sue us for breach of contract, be my guest. I have a team of litigators sitting around twiddling their thumbs. I'd be delighted to give them something to do. By the time I'm done, you'll be drowning in a sea of legal bills, your Pink Petticoat boutiques will be in shreds, and your reputation in tatters. Colleen O'Connell and Kiss Me Cosmetics are now under my wing. In a few short years they'll be a major player in the industry. If you'd been reasonable you could have come along for the ride, but instead you'll be crying into a glass of cheap whiskey wishing you hadn't been such a shortsighted moron. Goodbye, Mr. Harrison."

  Before the man could respond Tony disconnected the call.

  "Holy crap. I think that was one of your best," David exclaimed. "You must have had a good weekend."

  "The best in a long time. Don't accept his calls, or calls from any of his people. We'll get a letter of intent or a new contract in a few days."

  "It'll take him that long to get up off the floor."

  "The guy's a puffed up prick, but he knows he can't go up against Allin Holdings. If he does, I'll bury the bastard."

  "Colleen is very lucky to have you on her side."

  "I think we're lucky to have her company. Its potential is huge. She may not be the smartest businesswoman in the world, but she's got moxie, she works her ass off, and she has great ideas. I have to go."

  "Thanks, boss. We should sell tickets when you do your thing."

  "I'll think about it," Tony said with a chuckle. "Have a great day."

  Walking from the room, Tony strode to the stairs at the end of the hall. The conversation had left his adrenalin pumping, and holding his briefcase in front of his chest with both hands, he trotted up the three flights to his floor. The exercise settled him, and feeling much calmer, he headed through the double doors into his office suite.

  "There you are," Emily declared. "What do you want first?"

  "Bring me in a large mug of coffee and a muffin."

  "I meant, your message log, the mail, or the notes for your visit to Houston? You only have about an hour before the car will be here."

  "Damn. It's that late?"

  "It's that late."

  "Bring me the call log. I'll put the mail and notes in my briefcase and go through it all on the plane. And call Frank. See if he's available. I know it's last minute but I'd like him to tag along."

  "Will do."

  Moving through to his office, he placed his briefcase on his desk, draped his jacket around the back of his chair, and settling into the heavily padded, black leather chair, he powered up his computer.

  "Here you are," Emily said, walking in and putting the coffee and plated muffin in front of him. "And here's the call log."

  "Thanks. Sit down. There's something I need to tell you."

  "This sounds serious."

  "It's not serious, or maybe it is," he said with a frown. "Colleen O'Connell. We've started seeing each other. Outside the office. You know, dating."

  "That's nice."

  "Aren't you surprised?"

  "Only that it took so long."

  "Excuse me?"

  "It's been obvious for weeks that you two are—how can I put this—a likely couple. Why are you so worried?"

  "I make no bones about dating within the company. Now I'm doing it."

  "Not exactly. Colleen is her own woman. I mean, she has her own business. It's not as if she's actually working for you."

  "But she is."

  "In a way, but it will be seen differently. Tony, I don't think you need to be concerned. I think it's terrific. Those close to you will feel the same."

  "Huh. Frank thought it was a bad idea."

  "That's because he's overly protective. It's in his nature to watch out for people, especially you. That guy has a tough exterior, but he's all heart."

  "Yeah, I know. Thanks, Emily. Hang on, that's my cell," he said, reaching into his jacket pocket. "It's Colleen."

  "I'll try to reach Frank," she said, rising to her feet and starting for the door.

  "Hi, Colleen. Good timing. I spoke to—"

  "Tony," she said anxiously, her voice cracking. "I'm at my house. It was broken into. I've been robbed."

  CHAPTER THIRTEEN

  Jumping to his feet, Tony grabbed his jacket and raced to the door.

  "Are you okay?"

  "Tony, what's going on?" Emily asked as he flew past her.

  "Colleen's house has been broken into. Cancel the flight," he said urgently. "Sorry, sweetheart. I'm on my way. Have you called the police?"

  "Yes. I'm in the garage in my car. I wanted to get out of here but I can't stop shaking. Tony, I'm freaking out."

  "Of course you are," he said, walking swiftly towards his private elevator. "Hang tight. I'm on my way."

  "Why did they pick on me?"

  "God only knows, but you don't have to worry. They'll be long gone," he said, trying to sound reassuring. "Open the garage door so you'll see the police when they arrive. I'll call you back from my car."

  "Please hurry."

  "I drove the Porsche in. I'll be there before you know it."

  His assigned parking space was only a few feet from the elevator, and moments later, tires squealing, he sped to the exit. As he turned into the street he put in a call to Frank.

  "Hey, Tony. What's going on?"

  "Colleen just called. Someone has broken into her house. She's called the police and I'm on my way."

  "Shit. That's heavy."

  "Can you meet me there?"

  "Sure, but why?"

  "Because you're Sherlock, that's why. You see things other people don't. Her address is 47 Bellingham Court."

  "I know exactly where that is. No problem."

  "Thanks. See you soon," Tony said, then immediately called her back.

  "Hi, Tony."

  "How are you feeling? Have the police arrived yet?"

  "Not yet. I guess I'm okay. "

  "Frank's on his way as well."

  "Don't you have to go to the airport?"

  "I've canceled."

  "Tony, you don't have to do that."

  "Absolutely I do."

  "The police. They're coming down the street."

  "I'm only five minutes away."

  "Thanks, Tony."

  "There's nothing to thank me for. I'll be there in a few minutes."

  Ending the call, Tony focused on his driving, expertly maneuvering his sports car through the city traffic, but slowing down as he entered her neighborhood. As he turned down her street, he spied a lone police cruiser in her driveway, and Frank's Bentley parked out front. Coming to an abrupt halt behind it, he climbed from his car and walked swiftly up to the front door. It was cracked open, but he rang the bell to signal his arrival before stepping inside.

  "Colleen? Frank?" he called, spying the empty shelves as he moved past the living room. "Where are you?"

  "Tony," she called back, appearing at the end of the hall with Frank at her side. "I'm so glad you're here."

  As he quickened his pace, she hurried forward and fell into his arms.

  "It's okay," he murmured, feeling her tremble as he held her. "It's just stuff. You're insured, right?"

  "Yes, but—"

  "I know. You don't have to explain."

  "I keep my best jewelry and some other things in a safe, but they didn't find it."

  "That's good news."

  "It's a floor safe. That's probably why, and it's well hidden."

  "I'm Officer Stapleton," a police officer declared, walking up to join them. "And you are, sir?"

  "Tony McIntyre. A close friend. What can you tell me?"

  "Whoever it was came in through the back door. They did a clean job of picking the lock."

  "They didn't take her computer," Frank offered as he ambled up.

  "No, thank goodness," she said, pulling back, "but it looks like they've taken everything else, although I haven't gone upstairs ye
t."

  "We've got a ton of footprints in the yard," a second officer called, walking up from the back of the house. "The ground was wet."

  "Tape off the area," Officer Stapleton called back. "A detective will be assigned to your case," he continued, returning his attention to Colleen. "You'll need to make a list of the items that were taken. Are you ready to check your bedroom?"

  "I may as well get it over with."

  As Frank wandered into the living room, Tony and Colleen followed Officer Stapleton up the stairs and into her room. Glancing around, she let out a heavy sigh.

  "All my ornaments are gone."

  "Could you check your closet as well, please?"

  "My closet? Okay," she replied, puzzled by the officer's request, but a moment later she was throwing up her hands in disbelief. "They took clothes! What kind of burglar takes clothes?"

  "Looks like you've been a victim of Bonnie and Clyde."

  "Excuse me? This isn't a joke!"

  "It wasn't meant as one. That's what we're calling this couple. They've been operating around the suburbs for a while now. They don't just take the valuables, they take clothing as well."

  "How many homes have they hit?" Tony asked.

  "It's got to be at least a dozen over the last few months. None of the residents were home at the time."

  "But I could have been here sleeping."

  "Somehow they seem to know when a house is vacant."

  "I don't think I'll ever feel safe here again."

  "Pick up whatever else you might need," Tony suggested. "You should stay with me until you feel comfortable coming back."

  "If you'll excuse me, I need to get back downstairs and check out what my partner found," the officer said, moving to the door. "Try to disturb as little as possible."

  Walking out of her closet, Colleen flopped on the edge of her bed and buried her face in her hands. Moving quickly to her side, Tony put his arms around her and hugged her tightly.

  "I know it's a shock, but at least the police know who's behind it. They're bound to catch them."

  "I feel…"

  "You feel what?"

  "Violated," she whispered. "Someone's been in here, they've touched my things, they've gone through my clothes. I can't stand the thought of it."

  "We'll take this one step at a time. You'll stay with me, focus on your company, and you'll get through this."