CHAPTER NINETEEN
Flynn looked at the man with his arm draped around Sami. He sure as hell worked fast. Flynn took in the perfect features of his face, the blonde hair, the muscular build and the preppy clothes. All he needed for 100% confirmation of the man’s identity was a stethoscope hung around his neck. So Sami had caught her Dr. Perfect. That Guy he’d helped her to reel in.
He should be happy for her.
Instead he felt like he’d been sucker punched.
“Sorry,” Flynn said, “didn’t realize you were entertaining.”
“Who is at the door?” Nathalie’s strong voice carried easily, despite the sounds of the band tuning up poolside behind the main house.
Sami stepped to the side. Blondie was forced to drop his arm.
“It’s that pleasant redhead.”
Flynn recognized Emile’s low-pitched voice. Despite the warning clanging somewhere in the recesses of his brain, he raised a hand and waved. “How’s it hanging, Emile?”
Sami and That Guy were forced to edge away from the door. Flynn figured he’d stroll in and take the lay of the land. He had been a fool to come back to Nashville, a fool to RSVP to Kyle and William’s fundraiser, and an even stupider fool to climb the stairs to Sami’s apartment.
Once a fool…
Sami was wearing what looked like the same damn black dress she’d had on the night they had… he shut his mind. He studied her more closely and realized this dress didn’t cling in the same sexy-as-hell way. He ground his jaw, perversely pleased that That Guy wasn’t touching the same dress Flynn had slipped over Sami’s shoulders and tossed to the floor. Then he caught sight of her face in the lamplight. He cupped her chin in his hand. “What the hell happened to you?” Flynn turned toward Blondie.
Sami brushed his hand away. “I tripped on a tree root.”
“You should have ice on that eye,” Flynn said.
“Are you a doctor?” That Guy asked, looking down his nose.
Flynn shook his head.
“Then best leave the medical attention to those of us who are.”
Aha. Flynn had his confirmation.
“Chase,” Sami said, “this is Flynn Lawrence. Flynn, meet Chase Carpenter.” She looked from one man to the other. “Doctor Carpenter.”
“Medical convention?” Flynn moved over to the sofa, shook hands with Emile and then with Nathalie. “How’s your new place treating you?”
“It’s fine,” Nathalie said. “An adjustment naturally, but anything that is better for Emile is better for both of us.”
“Sami came by the other day,” Emile said. “Paid us a surprise visit. Nice.” He smiled at Sami.
Flynn noticed Emile was showing much more emotion than he had the night they’d arrived at the family home. Perhaps the change had been good for him. Perhaps, he thought, wishing he could sit down and ask Sami, perhaps she’d asked her parents about what she’d discovered in the journal. And perhaps that had opened some tamped-down emotional currents. He felt a sense of being cast out of a drama in which he’d played a part. And he wanted to know the rest of the story.
He didn’t want to be kept off-stage.
Flynn narrowed his eyes. He sure as hell didn’t want to be replaced by an understudy.
“Are you one of Sami’s academic colleagues?” Chase was standing next to the end of the sofa, where Nathalie was seated.
Flynn shook his head. “Not me. School and I have never gotten along. Except for the cute teachers.” He winked, man to man, at Chase.
Chase did not respond in kind.
“Flynn and I met through his brother,” Sami said. “Who, tragically, is now deceased. You might say it was his brother’s death that brought about our introduction.”
“Ah,” Chase said. “That explains a lot.”
“Such as?” That question was from Nathalie, who Flynn guessed, never liked a conversation she didn’t have a major part in.
“How a babe like Sami was still unspoken for.” Chase walked over and put a hand on the back of Sami’s neck. “You must have been attached to this guy’s brother.” He pulled her to his side. “I’m sorry for him, but happy for me.”
Sami was flushing three shades of cherry. Flynn felt a little bit sorry for her. After all, he’d encouraged her to flirt and pretend not to be herself in all kinds of ways. And look what the result had turned out to be. She’d caught her guy and the jerk knew nothing about the genuine Sami. And he didn’t like hearing him mention his brother. Flynn glared and shook his head. “As long as we’re sitting here getting acquainted,” he said, “I wouldn’t mind if you offered me a drink.”
Sami shifted so that Chase’s hand slipped from the back of her neck and moved toward the kitchen island. “White wine or club soda?”
Flynn wiggled his brows. “Not serving martinis tonight?”
“Help yourself,” Sami said, giving him a look that said she dared him to make himself at home in her apartment with That Guy looking on, wondering what in the hell might be the truth of their association.
“Wine is good,” Flynn said, relenting. “I’ve got two more parties and a hot date at the end.” He didn’t, of course, but he saw no need to let Sami think he was pining over her, no need to let her know he’d held out as long as he could, no need to let her know how desperately he’d missed her. “Have to pace myself.”
“Certainly,” Sami said, and poured a glass of wine. She crossed the room again and reaching out, extended the glass, acting as if she needed to stay as far back from him as possible.
Flynn pulled over one of the dining chairs and joined the others. Chase abandoned his stance next to Nathalie and sat down beside Emile. At least he wasn’t pawing Sami.
“What brings you to Nashville?” Emile asked in a calm voice.
“The fundraiser Kyle and William, the caretakers, are hosting,” Flynn said. He glanced over at Sami, who had her gaze fixed on Chase’s profile. “And other miscellaneous business.”
“Does Kyle know you’re here?” Sami asked.
“Not yet.”
“He seemed to want you to attend.”
Flynn nodded. He was used to being wanted by many people. Right now, though, he wanted to be wanted, needed and desired by one woman in particular. And that woman seemed to have exactly the opposite in her mind. Well, what in the hell could he expect? He never should have slunk out without at least saying “Good morning, Good-bye.”
Flynn could hear the band playing. He’d seen Kyle and William perform in a local club and liked their sound. In their invitation, they’d mentioned a new drummer. He knew they’d love him to represent them, and considering them as clients was the least he could after the way they’d welcomed Sami and her dogs.
“Need help with dinner, Sami?” Chase asked, rather pointedly, Flynn thought.
“No. I mean, yes, if you’d like to assist me, I would appreciate your assistance.” Sami blushed and looked adorably embarrassed as she tripped over her words.
Flynn wanted to take her in his arms and kiss her senseless, kiss her until no words tumbled out, until all there was left to do was scoop her up and carry her to the bedroom.
Chase stood up.
Flynn stood up.
Chase cocked a brow. “I think she said yes to me, old boy.”
“Right.” Flynn sat back down.
Emile got up, walked to the island and returned with the wine bottle. He refilled Flynn’s glass and then his own.
“Do you think that’s wise?” Nathalie said, frowning at Emile’s glass. “Your balance is challenged enough as it is.”
“I’m not six feet under yet,” Emile said, lifting his glass. He hoisted it toward Flynn. “May the best man prosper.”
Flynn wrinkled his forehead. Emile certainly seemed to observe and understand more than he let on. Flynn flashed him a grin and a thumbs up, and then took a swallow of his wine. In the kitchen, Chase and Sami were standing close together, their heads bent over some dishes on the island. They were talking, but Flynn couldn’t make out their words.
Just as well. He had a pretty good idea he’d only get annoyed.
Which he had no right to do.
He had no claims on Sami.
He wasn’t able to give her what she wanted in life.
So he could bloody well stand back and let her have That Guy.
Flynn ground his jaw. He finished his glass in one swallow and stood up. “Emile. Nathalie. Nice to see you again.” He raised his voice. “I’m going now.”
Sami glanced over. “I observe that you do know how to say good-bye.”
Chase looked at her, rather quizzically. “Evening, Flynn.”
Flynn put his glass down on the coffee table. He nodded at Emile, reached over and shook his hand. “Hope to see you again,” he said.
“I’d like that,” Emile said.
Flynn headed to the door. Ruby leapt up and chased after him, barking loudly as he opened the door to let himself out. He shut the door, closing her in. As he walked slowly down the stairs, he heard her plaintive barks, demanding to know why she couldn’t go too.
“At least he had the good manners to leave before dinner was served,” Chase said to Sami. “It would be hard to miss the fact that the table was set for four.”
Sami located the soy sauce and ginger the caterer had put into the refrigerator and set it on the island. She eyed the paper from Emile, wondering what it had cost Nathalie to offer her Philippe’s identity. “Yes.”
“That’s all you have to say after an uninvited man walks into your home as if he owns it?”
Sami turned her back from the living room area, wishing she could be alone with her thoughts. She didn’t want Emile and Nathalie to overhear Chase’s annoyed and annoying comments. “I would not have this apartment if it were not for Flynn’s kindness and his contacts in the music business. I do not regard his stopping by to say good evening when he was here for a social event being held on these grounds as an intrusion.” She took a deep breath, knowing full well Flynn had upset her tremendously by showing up as he’d done. No call in advance. No apology. But her reasons for being upset had nothing to do with Chase’s complaints.
“Are you sure it was his brother you were involved with?” Chase was looking at her as if she were a specimen under a microscope.
“That is an impertinent question,” Sami said. “Are you jealous? If so, you need not be. There’s no man I’d rather not have in my presence than Flynn Lawrence.”
“Double negatives, Samantha, bring misunderstandings in their usage.” Nathalie had walked up behind Sami. “I am positive, Chase, that there is no personal history between that man and my daughter. Samantha, it’s getting late and Emile is tiring rapidly. Perhaps you could serve dinner and hold your debating session after we have gone.”
It wasn’t a question. Nathalie’s pronouncements never were. Sami flushed, asked them to be seated, and carried over a serving tray piled with the array of sushi choices. After everyone had helped themselves, she placed a few rolls on her plate, returned the tray to the island and took her seat.
Emile did look tired.
He’d dislike it if she said so, so Sami held her tongue despite desperately wanting to say something to break the silence that had fallen over the foursome.
Nathalie finished an eel and octopus morsel. “Samantha, which caterer did you use?”
Chase looked surprised. “I thought these were Sami’s creations.”
“The caterer for Kyle’s party,” Sami said, coming clean. “Kyle felt sorry for me after he saw my battered face, so he had them supply everything. The appetizers, too. And the wine. And dessert. Should you choose to have dessert now that you’ve realized I haven’t been holed up in the kitchen all day slaving over dinner.” Sami looked at the surprised faces staring at her. Maybe she shouldn’t have had those two glasses of wine. She was beginning to feel that she not only knew the truth about a few things, but she was also capable of stating that truth.
“You don’t sound like yourself, Samantha.” Nathalie turned to Chase. “Do you think she might have sustained a concussion?”
Emile cleared his throat. “I believe I am the other neurologist at this gathering.”
Nathalie looked annoyed at his comment.
“Correct, sir,” Chase said. “What is your opinion?”
Emile paused with a crab roll half-way to his mouth. “That we ought to be thankful Sami has such thoughtful people around her. And grateful for this delicious meal.”
Nathalie lifted her brows. “Of course, dear, we are appreciative. Just concerned about our daughter’s well-being.”
Emile grunted.
Sami hopped up and offered another round of sushi. Only Emile took another serving. Then she offered refills on the drinks.
Only Sami had more wine.
Chase looked crosswise at her.
Sami sipped her wine. Through the walls and windows she could hear the band. The music was lilting and lively and sounded as if everyone outside must be having a great time. She tapped her toe against the floor in time to the beat.
“What time does your boat sail tomorrow?” Nathalie asked Chase.
“Two. At the Marina.”
“Very good.” She folded her napkin and placed it next to her plate. “Thank you, Samantha, for a most interesting dinner. We’ll be going now. You two enjoy the rest of the evening.” She rose and Emile stood, too.
“Thank you, Sami,” he said. “Take care of yourself. You, young man,” he said to Chase, “don’t keep her up late. After a head injury she needs extra rest. And more ice before bedtime.”
“Yes, sir,” Chase said. “You have my word.”
Sami walked with them to the door, with all three dogs following her. “I’ll be right back,” she said to Chase, shutting the dogs inside. At the foot of the stairs, she turned to Nathalie. “Thank you for giving me Philippe’s name,” she said.
Nathalie reached a hand toward Sami. In a gentler than usual voice, she said, “You have the right to know.”
Sami took her mother’s hand, and then put her arms around her. Nathalie hugged her back. Whisking away a few tears, Sami gave Emile a hug, too.
“I don’t know what I’ll do with the knowledge,” Sami said. “But there’s one thing I’d like to know.”
Nathalie nodded.
“Am I like him in any way?”
Emile and Nathalie exchanged glances.
“You drive the way he did,” Nathalie said. “Like a bat out of hell. Now, enough of the past. Your future is inside waiting for you.”
Sami said good-night and climbed the stairs, marveling that one of Philippe’s traits lived on in her. The band must have been on break, but it started up again as she reached the door. Lilting, upbeat happy music. She stepped inside, shut the door against the party music, and turned toward Chase. He was standing behind her, smiling at her. He held out his arms.
She walked reluctantly into them, not sure she felt like a hug. More than anything else, she wanted to go to bed, hug her pillow, and let sleep spare her the tumble of her thoughts.
“Precious,” he said, “why don’t you lie down on the sofa and let me clean up? I should have realized without your father having to point it out to me the after effects of a head and face injury. I could kick myself for letting my petty feelings get out of control.”
Sami pulled back from his embrace and gazed up at him, unable to believe how sweetly apologetic Chase was being. “Oh, Chase,” she said, “you don’t have to apologize for anything. It’s Flynn who should have said sorry for bursting in on us.” She brushed her fingertips along his jawline. “You’re the best,” she said.
He settled her on the sofa, made an ice pack for her and helped her place it against the worst bruising of her cheek and eye. He made short work of the dishes, put away the leftovers, and pulled a chair close to the couch. Then he stroked her hair with a gentle touch. “Thank you for introducing me to your parents. That means a lot to me.”
“Mmm,” Sami said. Her cheek was frozen enough to make her not want to move her jaws to talk. And tonight she didn’t feel up to explaining what she’d learned about her heritage.
“Family is so important,” he said. “Mam is raving about you.” He leaned over and kissed the top of her head. “You’re everything I’ve ever wanted in a woman,” he said. “Smart, good family, professional, beautiful. Parents in medicine. You’ll understand my crazy hours. Be there for me when I finally get home.” He took her hands. “We’re going to have a beautiful life together.”
“Mmm,” Sami said. Was he proposing? Or simply assuming that once he’d made his plans she naturally found them perfect.
He kissed her hands. “I hope you’ll be able to join us on the boat tomorrow.”
“Mmm,” she said and lowered the ice pack. She pointed to her cheek and whispered, “Frozen.”
He smiled. “I’m going to say good-night, precious, so you can get your rest. Just like your father ordered.” He kissed her on the lips, stood up and moved the chair back into place.
Ruby barked.
“Oh,” Sami said. “Would you mind before you go?”
“For you, anything,” Chase said. “What is it?”
“Take the dogs out. On their leashes.”
“Like I said, for you, anything.” He picked up the leashes from their spot near the door. Ruby ran in circles and barked wildly as he tried to fasten the leash to her collar. Finally Sami had to sit up, call Ruby and get it connected.
Chase was back to looking annoyed. “This dog could benefit from obedience lessons,” he said.
“She’ll calm down in time,” Sami said. “Thank you for taking them out. You’re an angel.”
He nodded and disappeared out the door, tugged by three dogs racing to see who would be first down the stairs.
Sami sighed and put the ice against the side of her eye. She should be over the moon with joy. She’d achieved her perfect match, apparently with little effort. Chase found her perfect. Nathalie found Chase perfect. Sami found his parents to be perfectly delightful, especially his warm-hearted mother.
What could be more perfect?
Sami thought about the fantasy she’d been enjoying just before she’d tripped over the tree root that morning. It had been a heart-thumping, blood-heating vision of making love with Chase. She’d been completely into the passion of the moment.
But it had been all in her head.
When Chase held her close and kissed her, she had yet to feel that hot, sweet rush of desire.
She frowned.
Why had that not happened?
He was being a gentleman. A perfect gentleman. No one but a jerk would try to make love to her with a head injury. Of course he was leaving early tonight. And Emile had practically ordered him to do so.
Sami rolled her head against the arm of the sofa. Her face didn’t really hurt. Her vision was a bit obscured from the swelling in her blackened eye. But given the right opportunity, she’d definitely be up to…
…being scooped up in strong arms and carried to the bedroom. Lowered to the bed, her black dress pushed up, her body opened to…
Ruby bolted into the room, barking.
Sami sat up abruptly.
Chase unfastened the three leashes. He still looked annoyed and then seemed to be working at clearing his face to a more loving expression. “I’m going now. Call me if you need anything.” He crossed to the sofa, tipped her chin up and kissed her.
Sami fluttered her lashes, widened her good eye and wet her lips with the tip of her tongue. “Thank you, Chase,” she said, in a breathy voice.
He paused. “You are one sexy woman,” he said. “I can barely tear myself away. But it would be wrong to stay. You heard your father.”
Sami couldn’t help but feel disappointed. Surely a man head over heels wouldn’t let those fatherly concerns override his own desire to be with her. “Yes,” she said, “I did.”
“Lock your door,” he said over his shoulder. “There are lots of crazies outside.”
Sami did not get off the couch and lock the door.
She lay there, wondering why her now-perfect life felt far less than satisfactory. Another Saturday night and here she sat, still alone.
She sighed. Outside, the party was in full swing.
Flynn Lawrence was there, no doubt flirting with some up-and-coming country western singer, planning just how to get her out of her tight-fitting blue jeans.
She sat up and tossed the ice pack onto the coffee table.
What she wouldn’t give to be one of those crazies out there having fun.