THE WILDE TOUCH: Book Two of The Touch Series

by Stoni Alexander

  “Thanks for everything,” Colton said to Crockett. “Alexandra, I’ll call you later.”

  “I’ll walk out with you,” she said. “Be right back.”

  As soon as they left the room, Kimberly’s smile fell. “I’m so tired. All the time.”

  Crockett sat on the bed next to her and clasped her hand. “What do you need? What can I do to help?”

  Her rueful smile tugged at his heart. This woman was as much of a mom to him as his own. “Love my daughter and keep her safe when I’m…” Her voice cracked.

  “I will. You have my word.” He glanced over his shoulder. “While we’re alone, I need to say a few things. First, thank you for forcing Alexandra’s hand so she’d move in with me. I’ll assume Colton was in on your scheme.”

  With a little smile, Kimberly nodded. “Of course. Desperate times call for desperate measures.” She patted Crockett’s hand. “That child of mine needed a swift boot in the derrière where you were concerned.”

  “Along those lines, I want to ask you something.” He pulled out his phone. “Do you mind if I video our conversation?”

  She frowned. “If you must.”

  He tapped the record button as she finished fluffing her hair.

  “You look lovely. Not even a hospital stay can change that.” He turned the lens on himself—flashed a grin—then switched it back to Kimberly. “I’ve given this a lot of thought…for a lot of years. You know how much I adore Alexandra.”

  “I do,” she said, with a smile. “And I tried to help you out every time she came home. But my sweet girl can be strong-willed, too.”

  “She is and I love that about her.” Crockett paused. “Kimberly, I’d like to ask you for Alexandra’s hand in marriage. I’m waiting to pop the question, but I’d love your blessing.”

  Beaming, Kimberly said, “I’ve waited a long time for this.”

  “You and me both. I’m not sure she’ll say yes.”

  “If she doesn’t, she’ll have to answer to me.” They both laughed. “It means a lot that you asked me, Crockett.”

  “I’ve loved our Goth Girl for a long time. Even time and distance couldn’t change that.”

  Kimberly patted his hand. “I know that, dear.”

  “You have my word that I’ll keep her safe and make sure she knows how much I love her—every day. I’ll protect her and build a wonderful life with her.”

  Through the tears in her eyes, Kimberly smiled. “I wholeheartedly give you my blessing. But you’ve had it from the very beginning. I wish you both a lifetime of love and laughter. Be good to each other and you’ll find that life is beautiful, even in the darkest times.”

  With the phone still recording, Crockett sat next to Kimberly, placed himself in the shot, and kissed her on the cheek.

  “Ooooh, a selfie,” Alexandra quipped as she breezed into the hospital room, but her red eyes were a clear indication she’d been crying. “What did I miss?”

  “Crockett doing what he does best,” Kimberly said. “Making me happy.”

  He flipped the camera on Alex. She blew him a kiss and he stopped filming. Kimberly said she needed to rest. After Alexandra promised to visit the following day, they departed.

  As soon as they entered the busy lobby, she pulled him out of the flow of foot traffic. “Colton answered my questions for the first time, ever. I have you to thank for that. So, thank you.” After kissing his cheek, she stared into his eyes. “Her dying has become very real to me.” She choked back a sob.

  He pulled her close and hugged her, then kissed her forehead. “What really happened with your mom?”

  “There are several new tumors. The radiation treatment didn’t work. Neither did the chemo.” Tears slid down her cheeks. “How will I survive without her?”

  He cupped his hands on her shoulders and peered into her eyes. “Focus on the now. Because now is all we have.”

  28

  Egomaniac

  Just before seven in the morning, Alexandra helped Crockett into his overcoat. “You. Go to work.”

  “Are you sure?” he asked, caressing her bottom.

  She dropped a light kiss on his lips. “Of course I want you to stay, but I’ve got to research No Man’s Land before calling Ruth Lizzard.”

  “You’ll do great.” He stroked her arm. Even his simple caress sent tingles scurrying through her. “Her ego’s too big to resist.”

  “I hope our plan works.” They walked hand in hand to the front door of the condo. “I’ll text you if there’s a change to Incognito’s website.”

  “You’ve been worried about Sage, haven’t you?” He threw his laptop bag over his shoulder.

  “How’d you know?”

  He cupped her chin, kissed her. “You had a nightmare. Don’t remember?”

  “No.” She’d hoped they’d gone away.

  “Lock yourself in, babe. Good luck today.”

  After one more delicious kiss, she ushered him out. I adore that man.

  With a lingering smile, she returned to the dining room and opened her laptop. Before beginning her research, she hopped over to Incognito’s site and sighed. The club was still closed.

  Two hours later, she’d learned enough about Ruth Lizzard and her new employer, Maryland-based No Man’s Land, to feel confident enough to make the call.

  “Good morning, No Man’s Land,” answered the perky receptionist. “How may I direct your call?”

  “Ruth Lizzard, please.”

  “One moment.”

  Too easy.

  “Ruth Lizzard’s office. Cece speaking.”

  “Hello, Cece. This is Alexandra Reed. I’m a news reporter who recently interviewed employees at Wilde Innovations for a segment called DC’s Brightest Tech Star. Larry Berry spoke highly of Ms. Lizzard. I’d like to speak with her about her contribution to Wilde Innovations before the segment airs. What’s her availability?”

  “Hold please.”

  For the first time in her career, Alexandra wasn’t affiliated with a news station. She felt like she’d been stripped of her identity. I’ll find another job. She cleared her throat.

  “Ms. Lizzard’s schedule is jammed. She can meet with you in two weeks.”

  “If I can’t do the interview in the next day or two, the window for the segment closes. Any chance I can catch her during lunch or after work? I’m happy to accommodate her schedule.”

  “How long will this take?”

  “Twenty minutes at the most.”

  “Hmm, she has a fifteen-minute window today at ten thirty. I’ll check. Hold for me.”

  Alexandra paced on the hardwood. C’mon. Say yes.

  “Hello?” asked Cece.

  “I’m here.”

  “Is this for the segment?”

  “Yes. Mr. Berry explained that much of Wilde Innovations’s success is due to Ms. Lizzard’s contributions.” Alexandra sucked down a breath. She didn’t want to push too hard. On the other hand, she wasn’t taking no for an answer.

  “What station did you say you were with?”

  Alexandra’s heart dipped. “The tech story is for News Cable Fifteen.”

  “One moment.”

  A few moments later, Cece returned. “Sorry, no can do. Try back in two weeks.” The assistant hung up.

  As a news reporter, Alexandra had become accustomed to doors being shut in her face, especially when she covered volatile issues. She hadn’t expected Ruth would agree to be interviewed for a story about Wilde Innovations anyway.

  After throwing on her coat, she grabbed her handbag, and left. Going at a snail’s pace in rush hour traffic, she pulled into the parking lot of the three-story building just before ten. As Alexandra entered the first floor office suite, two women were busy raiding the candy bowl on the reception counter.

  “Welcome to No Man’s Land,” said the cheery receptionist seated behind the counter.

  “Hi. If Cece is available, I wanted to ask her a quick question.”

  “I’m Cece,” said th
e other woman, tugging out a bite-size Snickers.

  Alexandra smiled. “I’m Alexandra Reed.”

  Her friendly expression waned. “I told you, Ms. Lizzard isn’t available.”

  “Yes, you did, but it’s critical I have her input. I can’t in good conscience report on a story without consulting all legitimate sources. I passed a coffee shop. What can I get you both?”

  “We have coffee here.” Cece’s flat expression didn’t deter Alexandra.

  “Not like the coffee at Arnold’s,” whispered the receptionist.

  “Why don’t I buy all of you something from Arnold’s?”

  As Cece glanced at the other woman, her expression softened. “I could use a mocha with a double shot of espresso.”

  “I’d love a sweet drink with whipped cream,” said the receptionist.

  Alexandra smiled. “Done. What can I get Ms. Lizzard?”

  “Large dark roast. Black,” said Cece.

  “Thank you,” Alexandra said.

  “I can’t promise anything.”

  I’ll camp here all week if I have to. “I understand,” Alexandra said and strode out.

  Fifteen minutes later, Alexandra handed Cece the hot cup. “One mocha with a double shot of espresso. And one caramel latte with whipped cream.”

  While sipping, Cece closed her eyes. “Chocolatey goodness with an energy boost.” She took another sip. “You must really want to talk to Ruth.”

  “So much is riding on Ms. Lizzard.” She handed Cece the black coffee for Ruth.

  “Have a seat,” Cece said. “I’ll run this in to her.”

  Alexandra waited. This is such a long shot. If Ruth was up to something—and Alexandra believed she was—she’d never divulge her plan. But Alexandra wasn’t there for a confession. She was there to determine if Ruth Lizzard was the puppet master and Larry her dutiful marionette.

  Several moments later, Cece returned, this time with a friendly smile. “You’re in luck. She respects women who make their own destiny. Plus, she likes her ego stroked.”

  After escorting Alexandra into an area filled with tall, gray cubicles, Cece sat behind her desk, located across from a closed office door. She gestured to a chair across from her desk. “Ruth will be out shortly. You can wait here.”

  With a smile, Alexandra eased into the chair. “Thanks again. You’re a lifesaver. How long have you worked here?”

  After discussing her job history at NML, Cece explained that she also worked for another executive. Then, she leaned across her desk and whispered, “I had it easy before Ruth came on board. My other boss is super laid-back. Ruth is obsessed with execution. Now now now! Several great employees have resigned since she started working here.”

  “It’s a competitive market. News is like that, too.”

  “If you’re late to work, your dog had better be dead. No more mid-morning dashes to Arnold’s. And forget about having to leave early.”

  Several questions tumbled to the tip of Alexandra’s tongue, but she bit it instead.

  “I’ve circulated my resume,” Cece whispered. “I can’t work ten hours a day and be on call every weekend. I’ve got a life.”

  “I totally get it.”

  The office door opened and Cece rocketed out of her chair. Ruth Lizzard stepped out of her office in a whoosh of red, the Arnold’s coffee cup in her manicured hand. Alexandra recognized her short, coiffed, platinum blonde hair from the cafe. Her chilly expression sent a shiver down Alexandra’s spine. “Ruth Lizzard.” She extended her hand.

  Grateful she’d worn a couture suit herself, Alexandra smiled. “Alexandra Reed. Thank you for seeing me.”

  “You have ten minutes.” Then, she flicked a finger in Cece’s direction. “Hold my calls, unless Ray needs me.” With that, she strutted back into her office.

  Alexandra had done her homework. Ray Chavez was No Man’s Land’s wealthy, handsome and married CEO.

  Ruth sank into her executive seat and clicked her long red fingernails on the shiny desktop. After explaining the reason for her visit, Alexandra tapped the record app and laid her phone on the desktop.

  “What news station are you with again?”

  “Wilde Innovations won DC’s Brightest Tech Star competition on News Fifteen. Mr. Berry credited you with Wilde’s success.”

  “I designed a system where nothing failed,” she said with a smug smile. “I boasted a perfect run rate.”

  “What does that mean?”

  “No downed vehicles. No rogue aircraft. ‘Precision. Perfection. Pinnacle.’ That was my motto and I did one hell of a job.”

  “Why did you leave?”

  Anger flashed in her eyes. “I’d outgrown Wilde. Time for bigger challenges.”

  “To date, what is your greatest professional accomplishment?”

  “I’ve become indispensible to Ray—Mr. Chavez. The CEO and I collaborate daily. His leadership style is invigorating and exciting.” She paused long enough to hint at a smile. “Because of my efforts, we’re on target to win a phenomenal opportunity with a very powerful three-letter agency. Ray is beyond excited.” She exuded a radiant glow.

  “The federal space is a big departure from the consumer market NML dominates. How did you achieve that in the six short weeks you’ve been on board?”

  Ruth’s perfectly tweezed eyebrow arched. “You did your homework.”

  “Absolutely.” C’mon, say something. “Can you expand on that?”

  “I push the envelope. I’m spearheading a project to launch a flock of small unmanned craft. Under my direction, NML will become the drone leader across all markets.”

  “Congratulations,” Alexandra said, stroking Ruth’s already massive ego. “Doesn’t the creation of a new drone take years to develop?”

  The executive hesitated. “I snatch shortcuts wherever possible.”

  “With this upcoming success, will you be recruiting members from your team at Wilde?”

  “No reason. I’ve got a great group here.”

  Larry’s going to get dumped for a bigger, richer fish.

  “Let’s switch tracks—”

  Knock, knock, knock.

  “Come in.”

  Cece stood in the doorway, her cheeks the color of ripened tomatoes. “Excuse me, Ruth. Mr. Chavez has an urgent question.”

  The company’s CEO stood behind the short assistant. “Ruth, I need you.”

  Lizzard shot out of her seat. “Of course, Ray.” Without so much as a backwards glance, she hurried out, though Alexandra believed she was rushing toward her next conquest. This man-eater devoured them like candy.

  After Ruth barked an order at Cece, the assistant scurried down the hallway. Ray strode in the opposite direction with Ruth heeling at his side.

  Alone in the office, Alexandra stopped recording. While Ruth’s comment about “snatching shortcuts” was suspect, it wasn’t sufficient to point blame. Falling snow outside caught her attention and her guts churned. Just my luck. She stood and shrugged on her winter coat. Ruth’s phone buzzed and Alexandra leaned over the desk to read it.

  “Snagged you two more, baby,” said a text from Larry Berry. “Slow going, but I’m getting it done for you. Trying to get you an Eagle. See you tonight. Can’t wait.”

  Larry had sent a photo, too. She grabbed her phone, snapped two pictures of the message and stashed her cell in her coat pocket as Cece flew into the office.

  “Ruth’s morning just got hijacked,” the assistant said, gasping for breath.

  “I would imagine no one keeps Mr. Chavez waiting.”

  Cece escorted Alexandra to the lobby. “Ruth will want to know when the story airs. Please contact me.”

  Alexandra tugged on her gloves and hurried into the blustery morning, convinced Ruth was involved with the problems at Wilde.

  As Crockett listened to the recording of Alexandra’s conversation with Ruth, he strummed his fingers on the white Formica table in his Tank. Despite never having experienced this level of revenge and betraya
l, relief washed over him. At least now they had something to go on. “Without question, she’s guilty as hell, but without evidence we can’t prove she’s behind the sabotage.”

  “Ruth got called away and I snapped this.” She showed Crockett and Decker the text. “I didn’t want to forward this to you.”

  Decker studied the photo. “Looks like Spy Flies. How is Larry lifting these from inventory?”

  Once again, Alexandra’s suspicions had been spot-on. “First things first.” Crockett scooped Alex’s hands into his. “Thank you for doing this.”

  “Of course,” she replied. “I’m happy to help you.”

  “We can’t let Larry know we’re onto him.” Crockett let her hands go and leaned back in the chair. “Until we have something solid, it’s business as usual. I’m pretty confident the answer to how he’s hijacking control of the devices is in the code.”

  “My coding is rusty, but I’ll check it,” said Decker.

  Alexandra rose. “I’ll get out of your hair.”

  “Where are you headed?” Crockett asked.

  “I’d like to visit my mom, but it depends on the snow.”

  “When did it start snowing?” Crockett asked.

  “An hour ago, but it’s not sticking to the roads.”

  After checking his phone, Decker pushed out of his chair. “Weather report says we can expect anywhere from a dusting to three inches.”

  “Decker, I know you’re super busy…have you had a chance to search for rejuvenation?” Alexandra asked.

  “I did a few searches. Haven’t found anything,” Decker replied. “With everything going on here—”

  “It’s okay,” she replied.

  “I’ll make it a priority this week.” Decker left, closing the door behind him.

  Crockett rose. Peering into Alex’s eyes helped assuage his anger. But the walls were closing in and his head pounded in his temples. “I’ll drive you wherever you need to go.”

  She placed a soft hand on his shoulder. “Please stay and work. I’ll text you when I get to Colton’s. If the snow sticks, I’ll stay.”

  He pulled her close and kissed her. The familiar zing of attraction brought the heat, but her inner strength and determination grounded him. “I won’t be able to concentrate if I’m worried about you.”