Fool Me Once

by Mona Ingram

  * * *

  “You’re full of surprises,” she said as the motor launch pulled away from the busy waterfront, cutting cleanly through the turquoise waters. The late afternoon sun gilded the tips of the waves and Olivia looked back toward the shoreline and the hills beyond. She’d been here once before but in the intervening years those memories had become hazy. Besides, back then all of her time had been spent on shore with Eliska and this was a completely different perspective. Even so, she scoured the hills, searching for a familiar landmark. Eliska had been a good friend. They had stayed in contact the first few years after school, but careers and travel had intervened, and Olivia felt a pang of regret as she realized that they hadn’t been in touch for years. The launch slowed down and she shook off her reverie as they approached a sleek yacht. Lowered stairs awaited their arrival.

  “Here you are, Darlin’.” Josh offered her his hand. “Your new home for a few days.”

  The yacht was tastefully appointed in earth tones, blonde wood and gleaming brass accents. Ignoring the living area and the dining salon, Olivia gravitated toward the spacious sitting area at the stern. “It’s beautiful,” she said, eyes aglow. “Could we have our meals out here?”

  “Of course we can. Just mention it to one of the crew and he’ll set it up.” Josh leaned his elbows on the starboard railing, studying the buildings strung out along the shore. “Now that’s expensive real estate.”

  Olivia moved to the railing beside him, following his gaze. “When I was a teenager, Dad sent me to school in Switzerland.”

  He turned to face her. “Did you hate it?” He seemed genuinely interested.

  “Heavens no. I loved it. I had a delightful roommate and we used to sneak away from the dorm at night and go into town.” She smiled. “Her family moved to this area while we were in school and I visited once, but I haven’t seen her for ages.” She leaned over the railing, scanning the clear water for fish.

  “She’s Spanish then?”

  “Oh no. She’s Czech. I think we’re fairly close to their place, but it was a long time ago when I visited, so I’m not sure. Her father built a huge place up in the hills.” She stared into the distance, lost in fond memories. “Eliska and I had what we called our secret code. We discovered that we both loved hot fudge sundaes. I still do, as a matter of fact. But anyway, our motto was ‘Happiness Is a Hot Fudge Sundae’. When one of us was particularly happy, all we’d have to do was mention hot fudge sundaes and the other would know that things were going well. Later on, after we went back home, we’d find cards with pictures of ice cream on them and send them to each other.” She shook her head, as though coming out of a trance. “It’s too bad we didn’t keep in contact. I liked her.”

  He slipped his arm around her waist. “Yeah. That happens.”

  She moved fractionally closer. It felt good to be held…no matter what the motive. The strength and confidence he exuded was more powerful than a drug. And she wanted more. An image of him on a dock in Marseilles flashed before her eyes and pinpricks of apprehension darted across her skin.

  Looking around to ensure that they were alone, she lowered her voice. “You said to Dirk that you were closing in. Will you be in danger?”

  He pulled her into his arms. “Why Darlin’ are you worried about me?”

  She squirmed out of his grasp. “Don’t do that. I can’t think straight.” She attempted a scowl. “And don’t try to change the subject.”

  His demeanor changed and for a moment she caught a glimpse of the hard-eyed specialist he had once been. He gazed into the water and she could almost see him deciding how much to tell her. “We don’t anticipate any danger. When we decide to move it’ll be over in no time.” He laced his fingers together, and Olivia could sense him withdrawing. “One less arms dealer selling weapons that kill innocent people.”

  “Well I’m all for that.” She laid her hand on his arm. “I’m going to go below and get settled. Can I get the steward to bring you anything?”

  “No thanks.” He seemed far away. “I think I’ll hang out here for a bit longer.”

  * * *

  Josh looked down at his hands. His knuckles were white, but he didn’t see them. He saw his brother’s face, carefree and full of youthful confidence as he prepared to leave for Afghanistan. “Be happy for me,” Zach had pleaded, eager for his older brother’s support. “I’ll be helping people who really need it.” Then he’d turned and trotted across the runway, boarding the small aircraft that would connect with his overseas flight. Josh swallowed painfully at the memory, then dragged himself back to the present.

  He stared at the hills, surprisingly rugged and free of vegetation. Blazek’s compound was somewhere in those dry hills. What would they find when they got there? Because they would get inside, he was confident of that. As long as he could bring Olivia and the arms dealer together, getting inside the compound was the easy part. The hard part was waiting. Waiting and controlling his burning desire for revenge. He forced himself to relax. It didn’t matter that there was only a remote chance that Blazek had supplied the weapons that killed Zach. What mattered was that the Czech was a symbol of one of the tragedies of the modern world–the proliferation of terrorism. There were too many men like Blazek; men who chose to ignore the consequences of their activities. Corrupt, amoral men whose only goal was accumulated wealth.

  He was glad they’d teamed him up with Dirk. Where explosives were involved, a two-man team could create havoc in very little time. The beauty of their plan was in its simplicity, and its far-reaching repercussions. Blazek was one of the top distributors in Europe and once he was exposed, other arms dealers would become nervous, wondering if they were next. They would eventually recover, but for a short while it would slow them down. Even one less shipment could save hundreds, perhaps thousands of lives.

  If only he didn’t need Olivia. But she was a vital part of the operation and he didn’t see any way around it. If anyone could get him inside the Blazek compound, it would be her.

  What was that saying she’d quoted? ‘Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice shame on me.’ If only she knew. He felt an unfamiliar clutch at his heart. If she found out how he was intending to use her for the second time she would walk out of his life and for one heart stopping moment he realized that he didn’t want that to happen. He pushed away from the railing. Who was he kidding? From the instant he’d first laid eyes on her, he’d sensed that she was different from any other woman he’d known. It was more than the obvious differences in their backgrounds. Her vibrancy, her intensity drew him like a magnet. And that mouth! It was caustic, it was saucy, and dammit, it was a pleasure to kiss. The sooner they exposed Jiri Blazek the better.

  * * *

  When Olivia came back up on deck, she found Josh lounging in one of the deck chairs, his feet up on the railing. He seemed completely relaxed, and she wondered how he could distance himself so casually from the evening ahead. They chatted through dinner, their conversation deliberately skirting the more serious subjects that were uppermost in their minds.

  When the plates were cleared and the coffee served, Josh turned to her. “When this is over, I’d like to see you again.” Candlelight picked out the golden glints in his eyes, and she thought he’d never looked more handsome. He took her hand and held it gently.

  Her heart fluttered wildly. This was the moment she’d hoped for and now that it had arrived she didn’t know what to say. She searched his face for a clue to his thoughts.

  “Why?” she asked. She gave herself a mental smack, wondering where that had come from.

  “I would have thought that was obvious. I want to get to know you better.” The smooth talking cowboy had been replaced by a more dangerous animal. If she searched a lifetime, it was unlikely she would meet another like him. She was getting dizzy just sitting next to him. It was too good to be true, and she knew what that meant.

  “But…” she stumbled over her words. “I was just coming to terms with the fact that
you used me.”

  “I won’t apologize for that. What’s at stake is too important.” He released her hand and pushing away from the table, walked to the railing. Gazing into the darkness, his voice took on a far-away quality. “When we were kids, we had an expression. When something wasn’t going quite the way we wanted, we’d call for a ‘do over.’ That’s what I’d like with you. A chance to ‘do over.’”

  There was no mistaking his sincerity, and Olivia’s defenses crumbled. With a resigned sigh, she joined him at the railing, their shoulders touching. The last smudges of color were disappearing from the sky when he turned to her.

  “Come with me to my ranch. This part of the world is beautiful, but Montana is breathtaking. I’d like you to see it.”

  “Gee, I don’t know.” She looked at him appraisingly, but the sparkle in her eyes belied her words. “I was just getting used to the bad boy cowboy, but I confess I like the sound of a ‘do over’.”

  “Well, Darlin’” he drawled. “I can’t promise that the bad boy won’t be back.” Reaching out, he tucked her hair behind her ear. It was a gentle, intimate gesture and her legs almost buckled. “But like I said at the beginning, what happens after that would be up to you.” His eyes flashed like summer lightning.

  “In that case, I’d love to see Montana.” She held his eyes. “It will be a first for me.’

  * * *

  The seas were calm and dark as the powerful motorboat pulled away from the yacht. Lights glittered along the shoreline; each building a jewel strung along the coastal road. Olivia shivered, and Josh put his arm around her shoulders. They pulled slowly up to the pier and their driver clambered out, steadying the boat.

  “Thanks, Carlos. Come back for us around midnight. We’ll call if we want to stay later.” Josh clapped the young man on the shoulder, and Olivia marveled at the way he’d gained the crew’s respect so quickly. She’d overheard him asking them about their families. By now he probably knew the names of their wives, and how many children each one had.

  They sauntered along the esplanade, part of the evening parade. He kept his arm firmly around her waist, and his lips brushed her hair as he leaned over to whisper in her ear. “I didn’t tell you how beautiful you look tonight.”

  “Why, thank you sir.” Self-conscious about her appearance, her hand went to her throat. She’d forgotten to bring any necklaces, and had settled for simple gold knot earrings. Her neck felt bare.

  “You’re wishing you’d worn a necklace aren’t you?” His eyes smiled at her reaction. “And no, I’m not part gypsy. Like you, I’m trained to observe people.”

  “And you’re good at it. I was thinking something along those lines.”

  He tugged at her hand. “Let’s go and check out those street vendors over there.”

  “Oh no, Josh. I’m okay. Really.”

  “Come on, it will be fun.”

  He guided her across the street, and they approached a jewelery stand attended by a haughty Spanish woman. It was soon evident that the pieces on display were of doubtful quality, and far too flamboyant for Olivia’s taste.

  “Well, we tried,” she said as they continued their stroll. For the first time since they’d met she was completely relaxed in his company. The night air engulfed them in velvety softness, and Olivia dreaded spoiling the evening by entering the casino.

  “Senora?” A young girl tugged at Olivia’s dress. She held up several necklaces, obviously handmade. A beautiful child, she wore a clean but threadbare dress and worn leather sandals. Her brown eyes were hopeful as she proffered her necklaces.

  The Spanish woman from the jewelry stand waved her arms at the young girl, eyes blazing with indignation.

  With a frown of annoyance, Olivia turned her back on the woman, guiding the young girl farther down the promenade. She selected a necklace of coarse green stones, strung on a thin piece of leather. “Preciosa,” she said, communicating her delight with the necklace.

  Josh watched the interaction silently, smiling his approval. Olivia dug in her bag and pulled out twenty Euros. The girl’s eyes widened, and she shook her head, holding up 4 fingers.

  Olivia placed the notes in the child’s free hand, wrapping the small fingers around them. “For you,” she said gently, and was rewarded with a look that changed from incredulity to delight. She tapped herself on the chest. “Olivia,” she said with an encouraging nod. Turning to Josh, she slipped her hand into his. “Josh,” she said, her meaning clear.

  The child stared at the bills and then raised her eyes to Olivia. “Me llamo Rosalina,” she said with a wide smile. Her eyes darted from Olivia to Josh before returning to the money clutched in her hand. “Muchas gracias,” she whispered, and then disappeared into the crowd.

  Josh took the necklace and fastened it around her neck. “You might just start a whole new fashion trend,” he said, stepping back to admire her. His voice lowered. “You’re a good woman, Olivia MacMillan. What you just did…that was very nice.”

  As they entered the casino, she slipped her arm through his. She was suddenly nervous.

  In tune with her emotions, he clasped her hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. “Okay Darlin’. Let’s see how they do things in Marbella.”

  The casino was bustling with the usual eclectic mixture of patrons. Josh guided her through the gaming area, pausing only momentarily to watch the action at the tables.

  “Do you see anyone you know?” he asked quietly.

  “I’m looking for Bernardo. You’ll know him when you see him. He looks the way I imagine Antonio Banderas will look when he’s older. Very handsome.”

  “I don’t see anyone fitting that description. Come on, let’s go into the bar and have a drink. This crowd is mostly tourists.”

  “I seem to be spending a lot of time in bars recently, but okay.” They settled at a table and ordered drinks. “It doesn’t seem possible that twenty four hours ago I was sitting with Francine in Monaco.”

  “Heads up,” he said lightly, leaning over the table and taking her hand. “I think I see Antonio approaching at two o’clock.”

  “Olivia!” The Casino Manager greeted her warmly. “How nice to see you again.” He turned to Josh. “I am Bernardo. Welcome to the casino.”

  Josh stood up and the men shook hands.

  Olivia remained seated. “Bernardo this is Josh Morgan, my fiancé.”

  “You are a lucky man, Mr. Morgan. If there’s anything I can do for you, please let me know.” The Spaniard executed a small bow.

  “Actually there is. I enjoy a game of high stakes poker. I’d be grateful if you would keep me in mind.”

  “But of course.” He glanced at his watch. “We have a game starting in half an hour. I think you will find it to your liking.”

  “I’m sure I will. Thank you.” The men shook hands and the casino manager moved away.

  Olivia fingered her necklace. “Do you think your blonde friend will show up here tonight?” She darted a glance toward the door.

  Josh sat back as the waiter placed their drinks in front of them. “He may wander through the casino, but if he doesn’t talk to you, don’t be offended. It’s best if we aren’t seen together.” He sipped his drink, taking note of each new arrival.

  “I think I’ll go back to the yacht while you’re playing poker. You don’t mind, do you? I’m starting to make notes on my laptop.”

  “Of course not. I’ll call for the launch.” He sipped his Perrier. “This isn’t much fun for you.”

  She looked at him oddly. “Not much fun? Bite your tongue. It’s been one thrill after another. That’s what’s got me worn out.” Her voice trailed off. “I don’t believe it,” she said woodenly, clutching at his arm. “That man who just walked in with the tall blonde is my friend’s father. The one from school I told you about? That’s her father, I’m sure of it.” Her eyes narrowed. “And that’s not Eliska’s mother.”

  Josh turned casually toward the entrance. “The balding man, with the woman in the white
dress?” He smiled wryly. “For a married man, he’s not exactly inconspicuous, is he?”

  Unaware that Josh’s eyes were riveted on Eliska’s father, Olivia watched the couple being greeted by Bernardo. “I know it’s none of my business, but I hate infidelity. And right here where he lives…it’s so blatant!”

  “Maybe he and his wife are separated. Didn’t you say it’s been a few years since you saw your friend?”

  “Yes, but I’m quite sure he wouldn’t divorce her, even if it was her idea.” Her eyes followed the couple as they greeted the casino staff with the ease of regular patrons. “It’s odd that I should remember this, but from a few comments Eliska made, I got the impression that her Mother came from an aristocratic old family. She’s the one with the real money. At least in the beginning. There was a legal contract drawn up regarding property.” She lifted her glass. “A type of pre-nup, I guess. It was the first time I’d ever heard of such a thing, so that’s probably why I remember it.”

  Josh studied Blazek. “He’s a handsome man.”

  “Look. He’s left that woman at the roulette table, and he’s coming this way.” Olivia’s eyes snapped. “I’m going to say hello to him; let him know I spotted him.”

  “Do you think that’s wise?” Josh watched the man approaching.

  She stood up, bristling with anger. “Maybe not, but here goes.”

  Chapter Seven

  “Mr. Blazek.” Her voice was deceptively sweet. “How nice to see you again.”

  The man stopped en route to the bar. Dark eyes quickly studied Olivia before assessing Josh. He smiled politely. “Do I know you?” he said, smoothing his tie.

  Olivia extended her hand. “It’s been several years since we met, Mr. Blazek. I’m Olivia MacMillan. Eliska and I attended school together in Switzerland.”