The taxi pulled into the small airport where he had landed before. It wasn’t set up for commercial use, but private jets worked just fine. Doug told the driver where to enter through the gates.
“Sir, no admittance from this point on,” the driver replied.
“They’re expecting us.”
The driver looked at the gate guard then turned back to Doug. “I don’t want any trouble. I’ve come here many times before. I suggest you and your lady friend use the main entrance.”
“I’m not asking what you think. I’m telling you what to do. Now drive!” Doug barked.
He didn’t know why he snapped at the guy. Normally he was always in control of his emotions. The last twenty-four hours had chipped away at that. Since learning his father had died, he’d wrestled with a combination of guilt and regret. There were several reasons for him to be going to the island, yet his current frame of mind was a major reason not to.
The driver did as Doug had ordered. When they got to the gate, Doug rolled down his window. The security guard approached and said, “Welcome back, Mr. Atwood. I’ve been informed your helicopter is waiting for your arrival in hangar five.”
The guard opened the gate, and the taxi entered. When they approached the hangar, Doug handed the driver some bills.
“You might want to hire a limo next time because if that’s your ride, I think you can afford it.” He pointed at the luxury chopper waiting for him.
Holy shit. That’s the chopper? He shook his head as he grabbed both his bags as well as Rose’s.
As they approached, a man came running from the hangar and said, “Let me get those for you, Mr. Atwood.” He quickly took the bags and rushed to the chopper.
Rose said, “I guess the Marine Corps pays a lot better than I thought.”
Since her father and two brothers were in the Corps, he knew she was prodding him. “Using this for now while I work on something.”
“That’s quite a company perk. Maybe you can tell me about it on the flight.”
Maybe not. Doug didn’t want to open that door. He knew he’d have to come up with something quick because once this bird landed on the island, he’d need to tell Beckett something. He wasn’t ready for the truth. Thirty-eight years of denying the existence of his father and then one day, boom, Dad died, and he was a billionaire. This wasn’t a Cinderella story, and no matter what, there was no happy ending. His father was gone, and all he could do now was find out how it happened.
They boarded the chopper, unlike anything he’d been in before. As he buckled himself in one of the white leather captain chairs, he noticed all the bells and whistles. Not only did it have a full leather couch on one side, but a full-screen monitor and what looked like a well-stocked bar. I’d have been more surprised if it didn’t have a bar.
Rather than sitting near him, Rose sat on the couch. He should consider that a good thing, yet somehow he was disappointed. Doug wouldn’t say she brought calmness to him. Rather, she was more a distraction from everything else on his mind. A beautiful distraction.
Rose had dressed for the weather they were going to instead of where they were leaving, and with her sitting across from him, his view was unhindered. She wore a pair of shorts that showed off her slender legs and a tank top that hugged her curves. Curves her towel had barely covered earlier. Curves I wished I could touch and taste.
Rose must’ve caught him staring at her because she asked, “Don’t you like what I’m wearing, or something?”
On the contrary, I like it a lot. Ogling a woman in such a manner wasn’t normally him, yet he couldn’t turn away. Her nipple pressing against her shirt didn’t go unnoticed either. “I was thinking you must be cold.”
She laughed softly as though she wasn’t buying his line. Rolling her eyes she said, “Yeah. Okay,” then turned away, looking out the window.
So what? I was caught. No harm in looking. At least, not now. Once they were on the island and surrounded by her entire family, it might be a different story. He was ten years her senior, and she came from a close-knit, loving family. He was a loner and enjoyed his independence. No, he knew Rose Davis was strictly off limits—look but don’t touch. No one would ever be good enough for Trent and Beckett’s baby sister. Doug knew that meant him too, even if he was interested in exploring his attraction. If Beckett thought Toby might not be the right one for her, he sure as hell wasn’t going to think Doug was a better choice.
“I noticed it said LaPrade. Who’s that?” Rose asked as she continued looking out the window.
She caught him off guard. Rose was an intelligent woman, and not much slipped past her. It was yet another thing that appealed to him. At this moment, he would’ve appreciated her being a bit more clueless.
Thankful they weren’t making eye contact he answered truthfully, “A guy I met a few times.”
Rose turned and scoped out the inside of the chopper. “I’d say he’s doing quite well for himself.” She ran her hands over the leather couch. “Actually, this almost reminds me of Trent’s. It’s beautiful and everything, but who needs so much? If I had this kind of money, I wouldn’t waste it on expensive toys like this.”
“What would you do with it?”
She smiled. “I’d do something extraordinary with it. Do you know the history of Marpe-Agape, the island we’re going to?”
Doug shook his head. “I didn’t know that was the island’s name.”
“It wasn’t originally. I’m not sure who changed it, but it means healing love, which is perfect for the place now, don’t you think?”
“From the little I know, yes. I know it holds a medical facility for terminally ill patients and their families. Beckett never provided any more details, and it wasn’t fully operational when I attended their wedding there last year. Your brother can be tightlipped when he wants to.” Which is most of the time. I think it’s from our time in the Corps, but we’re all alike in that way. Say little and bury a lot.
“I’m not exactly sure what started them on this project. Trent and three of his other friends pulled together the finances for that facility to be built. Every single person who goes there is treated at no cost. All expenses paid. It doesn’t cost them a dime. They even get the best medical care one could ask for. If I had the kind of money those guys had, I’d use it to make that sort of difference in this world.”
Doug smiled. She was sweet on the eyes, yet a strong woman on the inside. It was deceiving, and he liked it. Some lucky guy is going to get himself one hell of a gem. He couldn’t help wishing things were a bit different—he was younger, less of a loner, more settled—because if he was really honest with himself, he wouldn’t mind being that guy.
He brushed those thoughts away quickly. He’d dedicated his life since leaving the Corps to helping fellow servicemen cope with the everyday struggles of adapting to civilian life. Doug knew firsthand the statistic of marriages surviving with someone who suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. He felt like one of the commercials. I’m not just the counselor, but a patient too.
Rose didn’t need someone with baggage. She didn’t need someone in her life, or a boatload of money, to make a difference. They’d spoken several times before, but anything personal he knew about her had come from Beckett. Her brother had spoken highly of her. Maybe she didn’t know. Or was she not proud of what she did?
“Being a registered nurse in an emergency room affects many lives.”
“I know. Sometimes I want . . .” Rose turned away, staring off in the distance.
If he knew what she wanted, perhaps he could guide her there. It was what he was good at. They weren’t on this chopper for a therapy session. Although, I think I need one. For all intents and purposes, they were traveling buddies heading to the same destination. The only reason Doug was even attending the wedding was to see for himself if KJ and Beckett were okay.
“If you want more, something different, why aren’t you working on the island with KJ and Danielle? I’m sure they could use someone as compassionate as you.”
Rose smiled, yet he could tell it wasn’t genuine. “It’s not because it wasn’t offered. Trent begged me more times than I can remember. I’ve helped out on occasion when some staff needed time off. That’s all.”
“It sounds like it’s a fit for you.”
“I don’t want to work for family. I’m always considered just the baby in the family. I don’t want to be given something I haven’t earned. I know it sounds stupid. I grew up under the shadows of some powerful male figures. Working for Trent and his friends would be a continuation of that. Even if it means working long hours and having an average apartment, I’m going to get there. It just might take me a lifetime.”
It was like a knife in his gut. That was exactly how he felt, yet his father left him everything. Doug didn’t want it, yet he sure didn’t want Candi getting one cent. There had to be an alternative. Until I figure out what happened to Earl, I’m not making any decisions. His wealth, possessions, and businesses might not be what I wanted, but I don’t want them falling into the wrong hands either.
“I have no doubt you will make a difference, Rose. Don’t doubt yourself.”
She tilted her head at his compliment and shrugged. “Thanks, Doug.”
He wished he had the words or power to convince her. That was something she had to see for herself. They were going to be spending some time together, whether she knew it or not. During that time, he’d try to broach the subject again.
They weren’t far from the island, and all he wanted to do was enjoy the peace. He only hoped Beckett wouldn’t be stupid enough to let Rose know how he manipulated her dateless vacation. Even though she’s not working for them, she’s going to have one hell of a time breaking free.
The remainder of the flight, they enjoyed light conversation about movies and music. It revealed something they had in common. Both were workaholics since neither one had seen anything current. You’re too young and beautiful not to be living life to the fullest.
As she laughed at something he said, Doug couldn’t help notice just how lovely she was. How can I not be attracted to her? Her outward beauty, inner strength, intelligence, and wit are seductive. Stay focused, Atwood, it’s only one week. Less if I can get Beckett’s help before then. Looking at her beautiful smile, he wasn’t so sure he had the ability to resist her. It was going to be a test of self-control, and one week with this young lady was going to max him out.
Rose almost didn’t want the flight to end. Surprisingly, she found Doug a refreshing change from the men she dated. Then again, she wasn’t dating Doug. If he weren’t a guest as well, she would have gone with Gunny.
Not that she didn’t appreciate Gunny’s gracious offer to take her to and fro, but Doug’s chopper provided much more comfort. Besides, she swore Gunny had installed an eight-track tape player on his seaplane so no one could mess with what he chose to listen to. She didn’t mind listening to the oldies, but for the four-hour flight, it was more than she could cope with.
Rose wasn’t foolish. She knew Beckett sent Doug to call her bluff on being sick. She almost felt bad for being duped, but Doug hadn’t shown any signs of being annoyed for his pit stop to collect her. She didn’t know where he lived, but if he could get around so easily on his chopper, then hopefully she hadn’t inconvenienced him too much.
As the pilot opened the door, Doug got out first, then turned to Rose, extending his hand. The gesture was gentlemanly, and although it wasn’t needed, it touched her. Nice.
Smiling, she placed her tiny hand in his. It wasn’t the first time they’d touched. They’d danced at Beckett’s wedding, and she recalled enjoying his touch then. But what is different this time? Whatever it is, I better get over it. Given I’m just Beckett’s kid sister to him, Doug’s not interested in me like that. Besides, he’s a good-looking man, so I’m sure he has a glamorous woman waiting for him.
Once they were off the chopper, Doug released her hand. He grabbed their luggage and told the pilot he’d be in contact when they were ready to return. Rose assumed this was a one-way flight for her. She could hop a ride with Elaine, Trent, and their kids. Rose’s parents would be headed to New York, instead of back to West Virginia. Now that they were retired, they wanted to spend time with their new grandchildren. Her mother had always loved babies. That’s why she was a nurse in the maternity ward for over thirty years. Rose had to face it. Traveling back with Doug was the logical solution.
Who am I fooling? I want to spend more time with him. She’d almost forgotten they weren’t alone. Trent and Beckett were making their way across the helipad. It was too late to look queasy. She braced herself for Beckett’s snide remarks; she could see it in his eyes as he grabbed her two bags from Doug. Surprisingly he said nothing.
“Glad to see you made it, Doug. Work must be better than I thought.” Beckett pointed at the chopper waiting for them to clear the pad before taking off.
“LaPrade? Is that Earl LaPrade the take-over-at-all-cost tycoon?” Trent asked as he grabbed the duffle bag from Doug.
She could’ve sworn she saw Doug wince. He’d said he’d met the guy a few times. She wondered why that seemed to disturb Doug.
He certainly didn’t need any help defending himself, not even from her brothers, yet she found herself doing just that.
“Trent Davis, do not make me tell Elaine you’re talking business again on another vacation.”
Trent shot her a look then shook his head. “You’d need to get in line. I’ve heard it several times already from Mom.”
“Let’s not stand here; I’m hungry and tired.” Purposely not looking at Beckett she added, “And still recovering.”
As she led the way, she heard Beckett let out a chuckle. For now, she had a free ride, yet as soon as they were alone, Rose knew she’d need to pay the piper. She was here now, and strangely, felt better in the fresh air of the island. With Toby out of the picture, she decided she would enjoy the wedding. Maybe have a little fun with Doug.
She looked over her shoulder and saw Doug and Beckett whispering about something as they followed behind her. Or maybe not.
When she was almost at the top of the stairs, she saw Danielle and KJ waving. KJ was glowing. Who could blame her? She was about to marry her prince charming. Rose picked up the pace, ran up the last few steps, and threw her arms around both ladies for a group hug.
They both seemed taken back for a second, then pulled her in for a hug right back. Rose was younger than them, and she had to remember to control her zeal. Or at least, that was what she was told continuously at work. She had trouble hiding her emotions. She wore them on her sleeve for the entire world to see, which wasn’t always a good thing. Thankfully now it was.
“I’m so glad you were able to make it. We were worried when Beckett said you missed the flight with Gunny,” KJ said as their hug came to an end.
Rose looked over her shoulder and saw the expression on Beckett’s face. He gave her a wink. Then she turned to KJ and said, “I was lucky Doug happened by when he did.”
KJ laughed. “Luck? What kind of date would let you travel all by yourself?”
Date? Did she just say date?
Beckett interrupted saying, “KJ, these two are hungry and tired. Why don’t we let them settle in?” He stepped past them and said, “I’ll show them to their room.” Room? As in singular?
Oh, you’re not off the hook yet, Beckett Davis. Trent followed Beckett, and Doug tried to pass her as well. Rose placed a hand on his arm stopping him. “Doug is on the guest list, right?”
KJ smiled. “Of course. Once Beckett told us he was your plus-one, I added him right away. Actually, we all thought you two looked so sweet together at Danielle and Beckett’s wedding that we were tickled to find out you were attending mine together.”
Rose gave Doug’s arm a tight squeeze while smiling at KJ. Doug was way too quiet through this. She needed to find out exactly what his part was. I’m not so sure you’re just a pawn in all this. “That’s me. Full of surprises. If you don’t mind, I’m going to freshen up a bit.”
“Of course. You guys are here all week, so we have plenty of time to catch up.” KJ nudged Danielle with her elbow. “That’s if those two even know there’s anyone else on the island.” What is going on here? Why would they think that?
Both ladies laughed. Rose rolled her eyes and tugged Doug to follow her. She might not be able to deal with Beckett right now, but Doug was going to get an earful. He hadn’t seemed stunned by anything KJ had said. Doug was about to find out this Rose came with thorns.
Beckett must’ve known KJ let it out of the bag because he dropped the bags, put the key in the door, and left without a word. Trent was obviously clueless as to what was going on as he stayed leaning against the wall, waiting for them.
“Rose, I’d like to speak to Doug alone if you don’t mind,” Trent said in a tone that wasn’t really a request. She didn’t care what anyone wanted right now. She’d been played, and someone was about to answer her questions. Trent would have to wait his turn.
“I’ll send him your way shortly. Right now, I think Doug and I could use a bit of privacy.” He might need medical attention after I get through with him. I can’t believe he did this. Pretending to care about what I had to say on the flight here. Listening as though I . . . he was enjoying himself. Instead, this was just a game to him.
She didn’t wait for Trent’s response. Instead, she turned the key, opened the door, and went inside, leaving Doug with Trent. If he has any balls at all, he’ll stay and face the music.
Rose walked over and sat on the couch. She heard the door shut and the bags drop on the floor. Looking up, she saw Doug approaching her. There were so many emotions swirling through her she didn’t know where to start. Part of her wanted to yell and scream at him, and the other never wanted to speak to him again. Thankfully he decided to start the conversation.
“It’s not what you think.”
“Really? And what do I think, Doug? That my brother manipulated the entire situation and you knew all along and never told me? Because, that’s what I think.”
Doug sat down next to her. “You’re right.”
She didn’t want to be right. Something inside her had hoped he’d have some other explanation. It hurt. She expected something like this from Beckett, but Doug seemed different. How could I be so blind? “So you admit it. You lied to me.”
“I don’t remember lying,” Doug said defensively.
“You said you were on the guest list.” Rose tried to contain her anger.
“I am. As your . . . guest.” My guest?
Rose got up off the couch and paced the floor in front of him. “I don’t understand this. Until yesterday, I thought I already had a date for the wedding. I never mentioned to Beckett that anything had changed between me and—” Rose shot a look at Doug.
He raised his hands in defense. “This is a conversation you should have with your brother. Not me.”
She placed her hands on her hips and said, “Don’t worry. I plan on it. Before I do, answer this question. Why didn’t you just tell me the truth?”
Doug looked at her and shook his head. “I’m sorry. I don’t know why I didn’t. Maybe I was looking forward to spending some time with you.”
Rose looked at him closely. He seemed so sincere. She couldn’t allow herself to believe it. There was still something he wasn’t telling her. Until he was willing to open up, she was going to do what her instincts told her. Keep her distance.
“Great. Since you’re my date for the wedding, we can spend time together. For now, I suggest you go find Trent and find out what he wants. At the same time, you can ask him for a new room. You are not sharing this suite with me.”
Rose knew there was plenty of room in this suite for both of them. Two bedrooms with their own private bath. Was she being unreasonable by telling him to find someplace else? Maybe. Yet right now she wasn’t in the mood for being her normal cheery, positive self.
If she thought Doug was going to argue, she was wrong. He got off the couch and left the suite. Once alone she went and sat back down. Taking one of the pillows, she punched her hand into it before burying her face in it. I never should’ve left my apartment. I thought it was bad having to be here by myself. How am I going to get through this now? Why? Why would Beckett do that?
Right now the only ones who knew the truth were Doug and Beckett. If she left now, the entire family would ask questions, and she didn’t want to answer them. The easiest thing would be to let everyone think Doug was actually her date. It was only for a few days. No one said she had to spend the entire week. After the wedding, she would leave. It was simple.
It was time she took control of this situation. Rose flew off the couch and opened the door. Doug was almost all the way down the hall. She called out to him, and he turned and came back immediately.
“You started this mess. I don’t want to have to deal with anything else right now. So you’re my date for the wedding, then you’ll use that lovely chopper and fly me the heck out of here. Deal?”
Doug towered over her and asked, “What about Beckett?”
She shook her head. “I don’t want to talk to him right now. No one knows but the two of you. Once I’m back home, I’ll handle my dear brother. There’s only one thing I ask.”
“What’s that?”
“From now on, don’t pretend to give a shit about me when we’re alone. It’s a waste of my energy, and I’m not falling for it twice.” Rose walked into the suite, grabbed her luggage, and went into one of the bedrooms. Closing the door behind her, she leaned against it.
Remember, Rose, it’s all make-believe. Nothing he said or will say is real.
She knew she’d need to remind herself several more times while they were there, because unfortunately, she was attracted to tall, blond, and mysterious. He’s way too sweet on the eyes. Pretending isn’t going to be as easy as I’d like to think.