“Mitchell! No!” Dani rushed into the room.

“Everything is fine. This is exactly who I thought we might run into,” Mitchell hissed as he glared at Nash. “Get your hands up, Nash. I have no doubt why you’re here.”

Nash took a step forward, out of the shadows, then glanced over at Dani. “What the hell does that mean?”

“Good question. Why are you here? It’s Sunday night.” Dani asked as she flanked Mitchell’s side.

“I might ask you both the same question. I work here and in case you haven’t noticed, we have a crisis on our hands.” Nash snarled.

“He’s here for this.” Dani held up the oversized envelope.

Mitchell turned his head. “Where did you find that?”

“Where Nash hid it,” she commented, a wry smile on her face. “Let me venture a guess. The real reports are in here. Right? You lied about the others, paid them off to provide the kind of report that would make everyone believe the wells are tainted beyond use.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Nash insisted.

“Who are you working with?” Mitchell demanded. He could see animosity in the man’s eyes. When Nash didn’t answer, he took a long stride closer. “Talk to me and maybe you can cut a deal with the prosecutor’s office.”

“Prosecutor?” Nash shifted. “I’ve done nothing wrong.”

“Stay the fuck there!” He nodded toward Dani and stole a quick glance at the doorway. The man had to be working with someone else.

“Listen to me. This isn’t what you think, Mr. Rush. Yes, there’s some shit going on, but I’m not to blame. I was trying to help.” Nash’s eyes went back and forth from Dani to Mitchell.

Dani opened the flap, pulling out the contents.

Mitchell laughed. “Okay. Let’s go along those lines. Then what is it?”

Nash exhaled and looked away.

“I see. I think the lady may be right. Let’s see how this plays out. Shall we? You were in on this from the beginning with Mr. Steele. He hid the fact several men died because of shoddy safety practices. No doubt you were the one to sweep the incidents under the rug. When he sold the company, he conveniently left the information regarding the deaths from the disclosure paperwork. I’m certain Mr. Steele paid you a pretty penny for your help. Didn’t he?” His blood boiling, he took another long stride forward.

“That’s not the way it went down,” Nash said between clenched teeth. “You don’t understand.”

“Then tell me how it is!” Mitchell allowed his fury to show.

“Mitchell, these are the initial reports but there’s more,” Dani half whispered as she continued flipping through pages.

Mitchell shot her a look. “Who’s paying you? Steele? Or is there someone on the inside of my company? My freaking company! Were you also responsible for the death of Garcia Sanchez?” He tightened his grip on the gun as adrenaline rushed through every cell in his body.

Nash shook his head. “Death? What? What do you mean?”

Removing the safety on the gun, Mitchell pointed the barrel at Nash’s head. “Talk. To. Me.”

“Jesus!” Nash opened his eyes wide. “I didn’t kill anyone, but I know who did. Just listen to me!”

“Mitchell, you need to take a look at this.” Dani lifted her head and walked closer. “This is damning evidence. We have everything we need, but it’s not what you think.”

Mitchell exhaled and took side steps in her direction just as his phone rang. “Shit.” He kept his right hand on the gun as he struggled to tug his phone from his back pocket. “Zach. This isn’t a good time.”

“Buddy, I’m glad I got you. You were right,” Zach said quickly.

“Camden?” Mitchell’s heart fell.

“The money. Took me a while and the trail was twisted, but you were right. There was a large deposit made almost four months ago and another just within the last two weeks,” Zach continued.

“Who are we talking about?” Mitchell could feel sweat slithering down his back.

“I can’t believe all that I found. They did a damn good job covering the trail, but not good enough. You have to listen to me. I found something else… and… when…”

Groaning, Mitchell shook his head hearing the static. “Zach. Who are we talking about?”

“The plane is on the way… for you… out before it’s… late.”

“What are you saying to me?” Mitchell hissed. He could see a true hint of fear in Nash’s expression.

Nash shifted from foot to foot.

“What is going on?” Dani asked as she moved in front, her eyes full of concern.

“Zach. Say again. Who is on the way?” Mitchell stopped moving, praying to God the damn connection would get stronger.

“Mitchell. Get out… knows that you’re… and… on the way.” Zach was shouting.

“On the way,” Mitchell mumbled. If someone was on the way then… A shift in movement flashed across his periphery. Turning sharply, he dropped the phone as Nash lunged forward.

“Revenge is sweet, my dear.”

Mitchell opened his eyes in horror as she raised the gun, her expression one of satisfaction. “No. No! No!”

Boom!

* * *

“Thank you all for coming. I very much appreciate everyone taking the time.” Mitchell stood in front of the podium, looking out over the crowd of reporters as well as those who’d come to support both he and his company. Glancing to his right, he smiled seeing Dani. She’d been his saving grace in so many ways.

Dani gave him a heated look and winked before giving him a nod of approval. She stood to the side, her expression one of satisfaction.

“I will have a full statement later today regarding some changes coming to Rush Enterprises, but I’m here to announce a new business venture. This is a project that’s near and dear to my heart and I have several people to thank for allowing me to venture away from producing oil.” He looked out over the crowd, surprised they remained quiet. “To that end, I’d like to announce that with the backing of the Board of Directors from Rush Enterprises, we’ve purchased St. Francis Hospital.”

The news an obvious shock, the reporters murmured, raising their hands as they moved closer.

“As you all know, the previously state-run hospital was considered a way for those without health insurance to find medical care. I’m very pleased to announce that the hospital will receive a multi-million-dollar renovation and will return as the premier cancer research facility in the country.”

The entire crowd cheered, their claps and whistles floating into the mid-day sky.

Mitchell held up his hand. “Thank you. I appreciate your support. While this will be a work in progress, I can tell you that I’ve been lucky enough to hire some of the finest men and women in the industry. These doctors, nurses and research analysts are going to find a cure for cancer within our lifetime.” He turned to look at Dani. Her beaming face was all he needed.

“Furthermore, the hospital is being renamed.” He moved to a large board, the rendition carefully drawn and presented by the finest architects in Texas. He nodded to the two men and as they slowly removed the covering, he took a deep breath. “From now on, this amazing hospital is going to be known as the Sarah Rush Center for Health and Well Being.” He took a step back as the oversized board was presented and gulped air, tears flowing down his cheeks. This was one of the best days of his life.

After the applause died down, he stepped back up to the microphone. “Again, I’ll have a more formal announcement today, but I want to offer my condolences to the men who lost their lives at one of my facilities. While this occurred prior to the purchase of the Steele and Sons firm, the loss of lives will not go without notice. They were proud American Indians who lost their lives needlessly. I can assure you that our company is working diligently to make certain safety measures are exactly as they should be.” He looked to his left.

Zach was beaming, the tribe Elder by his side.

Perhaps the evil spirit would leave he and those he loved alone.

“Mr. Rush. What can you say about the allegations that former office manager, Marisha Hartwood colluded with a member of the Rush Board of Directors in an effort to take over the company?” The male reporter moved in front of the others.

“Unfortunately, John, I can’t comment on an ongoing investigation.” Mitchell knew the questions would come fast and furious. He was grateful the two were behind bars. The evidence found in the envelope was indeed damning, a well thought out collection.

“Mr. Rush. Can you at least confirm that the Board member was Tom Willis and that he and Ms. Hartwood had been having an affair?”

“Again, Ms. Lockwood, I can’t talk about any details. I will make a formal statement as soon as I’m allowed.” Mitchell pointed toward the back. “One last question.”

“Mr. Rush. Can you tell us the condition of Nash Waters, the man who saved your life?”

Mitchell exhaled and gripped the podium. “I’m happy to report that he is recovering in the hospital and should be released sometime later this week. Thank you all again for coming. Now, let’s celebrate our wonderful town and continued prosperity.” He moved off the platform, heading straight for Dani. As she approached, she gave him a hard once over. “I’m not certain about that look. Did I do all right?”

“You were fantastic,” she said as she adjusted his tie. “You look the part of an oil tycoon. Handsome. Commanding.”

“You mean instead of a penniless pauper?” he asked as he gripped her arms.

“I kind of like you penniless. Keeps you humble. Very tasty if you ask me.” Her eyes twinkling, Dani brushed the tip of her finger across his mouth.

Pulling her forward, he lowered his head and whispered, “Careful, my dearest, or I’ll have to give that sweet ass of yours a spanking.”

Shuddering visibly, she licked around his mouth.

“None of that, you two.” Camden moved toward them. “We have a Board meeting to go to. You can play love games when we’re through.”

Mitchell gazed at his friend. He was more than grateful that he’d been wrong. “Power hungry, are we?”

Camden shrugged. “Hey, when the boss gives you a huge promotion, what can you do?”

Dani eased back. “Is Nash really going to be okay?”

“Thank God, he is. The bullet just missed his lung. Marisha had good aim. He was damn lucky.” Mitchell replayed the horrible night in his mind. If Nash hadn’t jumped in front of Marisha’s gun, there was no doubt he would have died or worse, the bullet would have hit Dani.

“I’m just glad that the man was smart enough to collect as much evidence as he did,” Camden said quietly as he looked toward the rendering of the hospital, his eyes misting over.

“She’s going away for a long time,” Dani said quietly.

“Dani, would you excuse us for just a minute?” Mitchell asked after kissing her forehead.

“Of course, sweet sir. Just don’t be too long. We are going to celebrate later. I’ll wait for you in your office,” she purred then moved away, gripping Camden’s arm before she did.

Mitchell waited until she’d left. Eyeing his friend, he pulled him away from the still celebrating crowd. “Can you ever forgive me?”

“For thinking I betrayed you?” Camden asked, unable to look Mitchell in the eyes.

“Yeah. I was a fool.”

He exhaled and glanced once again at the rendering. “I’m sorry about Marisha. I had no idea she was that demented, hell bent on revenge.”

“She was more in love with me than I realized. I don’t completely understand and I suspect I never will,” Mitchell said then sighed. All he knew was that the woman had planned the entire betrayal months before, enlisting Tom Willis’ help then sleeping with him to seal the deal. “Tom could have influenced the Board and in time, she would have been made CEO of the company.”

“Over my dead ass body,” Camden said as he laughed. “Seriously, we would have seen right through the plan eventually.”

“Eventually is the word, after she’d made the company worth almost nothing. Clever girl.”

“Not clever enough for the old Maxum Montgomery.”

Mitchell looked toward the vision of the hospital. “I’m not that old, buddy.”

“Old enough,” Camden said as he laughed. “What you’re doing with the hospital is amazing. I’m so proud for you, for us. Sarah would be so pleased.”

“I think so.” Mitchell shook his head, garnering courage. “Look, I didn’t know you were in love with Sarah and before you say anything, don’t be angry with Zach. He knew I needed to hear the words, the story. I’m so sorry I didn’t see it or encourage your relationship.”

Camden half smiled. “I’m not blaming you. Your father was such a bastard to us. He hated me for taking his little girl. I never figured out why. I adored her. I would have done anything for her.”

“My father needed control of everything and everyone in his life, especially his little girl. He did everything to destroy her life.”

“She was stronger than you know, but I should have been there for her. I should have ignored your father but he threatened you, the company and everyone she knew, so I stayed away.” Camden’s voice shook.

“The very wise Dani told me to stop beating myself up and I’m going to do just that. You should too. We’re starting a new venture and I hope you’ll always be by my side.”

Lifting his head, Camden smiled. “I will. Through thick or thin. I will.”

They stood quietly for a few minutes. “Just know that I would have been thrilled to have you as my brother-in-law.”

He nodded then grinned. “I thought I was your brother anyway.”

Mitchell laughed. “You are, my friend. You are. Are you ready to do this?”

After sucking in his breath, he held out his hand. “I am.”

Mitchell shook then nodded toward the building. “Let’s get this over with so we can party down.”

“Listen to you. I suppose I’ll have to buy the drinks.”

“Well, I do have an empty bank account,” Mitchell teased.

They walked into the building, past the employees, who stood and clapped when they walked by. The moment they both made their entrance into the board room, the entire Board of Directors stood.

Mitchell gave each one a respectful nod before he spoke. “As you all know, Thomas Willis and Marisha Hartwood have been indicted for the various crimes related to the Steele site as well as embezzling money. We have a long way to go before we recover, but I’m glad to say that our oil wells are producing. The three that were contaminated are well on their way to being cleaned, thanks to the ingenuity of our newest employee, Danielle Montgomery. In the meantime, I have an announcement.” He looked over at Camden, thrilled with his decision.

“As of today, I will be stepping down as the CEO of Rush Enterprises. While this isn’t news, given our recent conversations, I’d like to formally place a motion on the table that Camden Dane be promoted to CEO of the company. I’ll remain on the Board but given I’m also serving on the hospital board, I feel this is in the best interest of Rush Enterprises.”

Mitchell took a step back. Hearing the second to the motion and the formal approval, he smiled. This was the beginning of a new life. Now, all he had to do was convince Dani to stay.

Forever.

* * *

Dani yawned and tied the sash around her robe. She was shocked to see the time. Granted, they had a full house until almost three in the morning. Grinning, she glanced at her reflection in the bathroom mirror and wiggled. The spanking she’d received just prior to the guests’ arrival had set the tone for the night. Mitchell was on top of his game.

She made herself presentable and walked out of the bedroom and toward the office. Very quietly she opened the door. She leaned against the doorjamb and folded her arms, admiring the man she was so in love with. There was something special about seeing him in front of a microphone, his face pensive as he answered various domestic discipline questions.

“Yes, Margaret, I agree with you. Finding the right person is the key. Sometimes you never know what can happen if you allow your guard to fall.” Mitchell tipped his head, smiling and motioning her to come in.

Giving him a saucy grin, she sauntered forward, placing her hands on his shoulders. She leaned down, pressing kisses on his cheek, then slid her hand down to his crotch, cupping and squeezing.

He shifted, covered the microphone and moaned before giving her a heated look. “Bad girl.”

“You love it.” She continued squeezing until he was hard as a rock. No doubt she’d receive yet another spanking after the show, but for now she was going to torture him to the fullest degree.

“I love you, but you better behave.”

“Or what, big man?” She squeezed again.

“And we have another caller,” Mitchell said, his voice cracking. “Jasmine. What is your question?” As the girl started to talk, he grabbed Dani’s hand, yanking her down for a heated kiss.

Chills raced down her spine the moment he slid his hand past the edge of the silk robe and gown, pinching her nipple. “Careful, big boy,” she whispered.

Mitchell cleared his throat. “Jasmine. You were asking if love and a happy ever after could be a part of a domestic discipline relationship?”

“Yes, sir. I love, my Timmy. I want nothing more than to be married to him as well as obey his every command,” Jasmine stated clearly.

Dani resisted giggling as she took a step back, determined to allow him to finish the radio show. She marveled at the fact she thought he was such a fake after learning his true identity. The man knew his stuff.

Exhaling, Mitchell released his hold and stood as he slipped his hand into his pocket. “Jasmine, I can tell you without any hesitation that love, marriage, children and domestic discipline go hand in hand. That is as long as the man is in control.” He turned toward her, his eyes full of mischief as well as love.

“Thank you so much, Master Gregory. I love your show!” Jasmine squealed.

Raising her eyebrow, she smiled until she noticed what he had in his hand. Gasping, she took a step back as tears formed in her eyes. “Are you serious?”

“Ladies and gentlemen in the audience. I’d like to make you a part of history. While this show has been important to me and I love all of you dearly, there is a woman in my life who has brought me more joy than anyone ever has. To that end, I’d like to ask her a question. Danielle Montgomery, my amazing engineer, the love of my life and the woman I hope to honor, cherish and discipline for the rest of my life. Will you give me the great honor of marrying me?”

Dani sucked in her breath, words and thoughts caught in her throat. As he opened the box, presenting the most incredible ruby and diamond ring she’d ever seen, she began to sob. “Yes!”

Mitchell slipped the ring on her finger as tears rolled down his face. He kissed her gently on the mouth and lowered his head toward the microphone. “That’s all for today’s show, Taken in Hand. I hope you’ll be with us, and I do mean us, next week as we explore another chapter of an amazing journey. Domestic Discipline is about trust and love. Never forget. Have a wonderful week.” He ended the show and pulled her into his arms. “I love you.”

“God, I love you.”

“Even penniless?”

Laughing, she wiped the tears and placed her arms around his neck. “I love you for all you are and the man who has the guts to control me.”

“Guts. You’re right. I think it’s time for another spanking. Just to keep you in line.”