CHAPTER TWO

 

 

 

Three days later…

“Pack a bag, sleepyhead. I’ll be by to pick you up in half an hour. We’re heading to the Louisiana border.”

Rey rubbed her eyes, raising up to glance at the clock. “It’s five o’clock in the morning, Connor! I have another hour of sleep coming.” He wasn’t a morning person and she knew it. “What are you doing up so early? Are you trying to punish me because of what I told Veronica?”

“What did you tell Veronica?”

At the censure in his tone, she grinned. “Never mind. I’m sure she’s figured out the truth by now.”

“You didn’t tell her about Serena or Daphne or…”

“No,” she interrupted him, “I didn’t have to, she can glean that kind of information from the gossip shows. What I told her was much worse.” Rey giggled, she couldn’t help it.

“You didn’t.” His voice lowered to a growl. “You told her about my morning ritual?”

Rey rose, taking the phone away from her ear long enough to strip the nightshirt off over her head. “I thought she deserved to know about your addiction to Fruity Pebbles.”

“If a man wants to sit on his couch in his underwear and eat a healthy, delicious breakfast while watching cartoons, that should be his business!”

“If you say so,” she answered in a sing-song voice, her excitement at their venture made her giddy. “I’ll be ready when you get here.”

“You’d better. It seems like I spend half my life waiting on women,” Connor grumbled.

“Maybe you should be a bit more discerning about the company you keep,” she stated in a teasing tone, although she meant every word.

“Perhaps you’re right. Punctuality is a virtue, but right now I’m in need of a woman with understanding. Can you do that for me?”

He was being mysterious, which made Rey nervous. “What do you mean?”

“I’d rather tell you when we’re together.” Frankly, Connor didn’t want her to back out of the trip. “Just practice being sweet until I get there. I know it’s hard for you.”

Rey turned the tap on the shower, checking the temperature of the water. “This sounds bad, McGregor. I feel like you’re luring me into a trap or something.”

“Well, I’ll make sure it’s a velvet trap. How’s that?”

Before she could argue further, he hung up.

Rey hurried; cramming a shower, packing, and a quick breakfast into the next thirty minutes. She fed and watered her African violets and set the grow lights on a timer. Most of the time she loved her job. There was never a dull moment. She didn’t have to keep regular office hours and they were always dealing with intriguing people and different situations. Once she was ready, Rey stood at the window, watching. When Connor’s Mercedes rounded the corner, she didn’t wait. Grabbing her bag, she was out the door in a matter of seconds.

All Connor had time to do before his assistant jumped in, was reach across and open the door from the inside. “You know, I’d be more of a gentleman if you’d give me a chance,” he grumbled.

“Don’t waste your chivalry on me, McGregor. I’m not one of your women.”

“You are a woman, Cassidy,” he drawled as she fastened her seat belt. “You look nice today.” He couldn’t help but notice her long, smooth legs and the way the sweater dress she wore molded very feminine curves.

“Stop,” she mumbled, “you’re going to give me a complex.” Sliding her bag to the floorboard at her feet, she reached up to flip open the mirror on the visor. “I need to get some new eyeshadow; this stuff doesn’t do a dang thing for me. Where are we staying?”

Connor backed out of her drive. “Doug Rogers has a big house on the land he’s wanting to develop. We’ll be staying with him and his wife.”

“Will there be any eligible men around?”

“What about the dairy farmer?” A sideways, pointed glance from Rey shut down that topic. “No, I don’t think there’ll be any other men, unless it’s someone who works for Rogers.” Connor shook his head. “It doesn’t matter, you’re going to be otherwise occupied and unavailable. And your eyeshadow looks fine, by the way.”

“Great. Fine is exactly what I was aiming for,” Rey said slowly as she continued to check her makeup. “How am I otherwise occupied and unavailable?” When he didn’t answer right away, she grew suspicious. Closing the visor with a snap, she faced him. “What’s going on, Connor? What are you not telling me?”

Connor inhaled sharply. “I need you to be a buffer for me.”

Her eyes widened and she crossed her arms over her chest. “Oh, no. I’m not doing this again. Veronica was my swan song.” She tried to process what he was telling her. “Who else is going to be there?”

Connor shrugged. “No one. Just us and the Rogers.”

Realization dawned. “Oh, my God! Don’t tell me you used to boink Doug’s wife!?” The guilty look that came over his face told her volumes. “Unbelievable,” she muttered, shaking her head. “Who was she?”

“I knew Karin a long time ago.”

“Karin…” she mumbled the name, then cursed under her breath. “Karin Metcalf, the super model?”

“Yea, that’s her.” During all the uncomfortable discussion, Connor hadn’t taken his eyes off the road. He didn’t really want to see Rey’s expression.

“And you need a buffer because…?” she asked, drawing out the last word.

Connor sighed. “Karin has always been aggressive. After Doug got in touch with me about setting up the meeting, Karin called and said how she looked forward to seeing me again…and picking up where we left off.” At her gasp, he finally glanced over at his unhappy companion. “I have absolutely no intention of taking her up on her offer, I just know how persistent Karin can be. She’s the type of woman who usually gets what she wants.”

“And she wants you.” Every word Rey said dripped with disgust.

As Rey tapped her toe on the floorboard. Connor counted, waiting for her to put two and two together.

Boom!

“And just what in the hell is my role in this? What kind of buffer am I supposed to be? Am I supposed to hold her back with my purse like I did the women outside the hotel?”

“This is a huge deal, Rey. We need to do whatever it takes to make it happen.”

“Aren’t you afraid Karin will kill the deal if you disappoint her?”

“I don’t pursue married women,” Connor answered adamantly. “I do have standards.”

Rey rolled her eyes. “I knew your inability to keep it in your pants would bite us in the rear one of these days.”

“Don’t worry, everything’s going to be fine.”

“Easy for you to say.” She fumed for a few more seconds, then her suspicions began to grow. “Connor, what did you do?”

“I’ve put up a firewall.”

Her unease was growing by the second. “What kind of a firewall?” 

“Doug and Karin are under the impression that I’m in a relationship.”

“Oh, really? With who?” she asked through gritted teeth.

“I told them you were my girlfriend.”

“Your girlfriend? No way!” Rey exploded. She couldn’t do it, she just couldn’t it. “You’ve asked me to do a lot of things in the past, Connor, but this takes the cake. I won’t do it.”

“Come on, Rey, this isn’t a big deal. All you’ll have to do is pretend we’re an item in public…and sleep in the same room with me.”

 

*  *  *

After his revelation, Rey was speechless. She was almost tempted to demand that he turn around and take her home. What he asked was simply beyond the pale. When Connor tried to talk to her, she answered him in monosyllables.

Once they were in the air, aboard his private plane, Connor sat down beside her, handing Rey a cold drink. “Come on, Cassidy. It’s going to be okay. We’re going to have a good time and walk away with a helluva deal.”

Rey’s head hurt. “There’s just no way this is going to work. I’m just not that good of an actress. We’ll be found out.”

Connor was a little offended. “Is pretending to like me, to be attracted to me, going to be so difficult?”

She shook her head. There was no way she could make him understand when she really didn’t understand herself. “Tell me what to expect,” she said with a resigned voice.

As the plane winged its way from Austin-Bergstrom to Roger’s private airport near a small town called Milam, Connor talked to her about their ploy. “It won’t be a big thing, there’ll be some PDA, so don’t flinch or grimace when I touch you.”

His hopeful voice made her giggle a bit. “I’ll try not to bite you.”

“Good, save that till we’re alone.”

Rey shivered at the thought. They’d been alone plenty of times, but never with the expectation of spending an entire night together. “Are you sure we have to share a room? Why can’t I pretend to be a religious prude? I could tell them you snore!”

Connor gave her a mischievous grin. “Karin knows me better than that.”

Rey felt a flash of jealousy. “Don’t remind me.” The more she thought about it, the more it didn’t make sense. “Are you going to use me to keep Karin at bay or am I a distraction to fool Doug Rogers while you two…?”

Connor had the balls to look affronted. “I have no designs on Karin Rogers. At all. None.”

“You’d better not be using me like that, Connor. I don’t know if I could ever forgive you if you did,” she warned him.  

“I won’t do anything to hurt you.” To her surprise, Connor covered her hand with his. She didn’t move, they seldom touched and the pleasure she felt stole her breath. “Look, this could be huge for us. The money we can make is well worth the sacrifice.”

Sacrifice? Was pretending to be with her such a sacrifice? “I won’t share a bed with you, Connor McGregor. So, you’d just better get used to the idea of sleeping on the couch.”

“Quit fretting, we’ll make-do.” He patted her hand and she wanted to kick him. How in the world would she be able to concentrate on business if Connor tried to pass himself off as her lover?

Lover.

Rey gulped. This was going to be crazy.

The flight was quick, what would’ve been a five-hour car drive was accomplished in a little over an hour. Trying to come to terms with what was about to happen, Rey stared out the window, watching the landscape change from rolling hills to dense pine forests. There were no pangs of nostalgia, her childhood here had not been a happy one.

When they touched down at the small airport, an attendant helped Rey with her bags. As she descended the steps, Connor offered his assistance. Taking his hand, she supposed the ruse started now.

“Welcome Mr. McGregor and Miss Cassidy. I’m Hollis Powell. Mr. Rogers sent me to fetch you.”

“Thank you,” she acknowledged the man who greeted them. He was quite handsome. Not Connor McGregor handsome, but quite nice. “I hope we didn’t keep you waiting long.”

“We radioed ahead, Rey,” Connor muttered, wrapping his arm around her. “He probably just arrived.”

“I’m just glad to be of service,” Mr. Powell continued good naturedly. “Mr. and Mrs. Rogers will be expecting you.”

“Thank you,” Rey murmured as Connor opened the door of the SUV before the driver could do so. Seeing his presence wasn’t needed, Hollis Powell took their luggage and stored it in the back. As she climbed in, the door was shut behind her and in a few moments, her business partner was settling into the seat beside her. She was conscious of his nearness, the size and power of his body making her feel more feminine and dainty than she usually did.

“Comfortable? he asked as he helped Rey with her seat belt.

“Knock it off,” she whispered. “No one’s looking.” At this stage, her mind was usually focused on business – the art of the deal. Now, her focus was scrambled. All she could think about was how Connor would treat her during their visit. She’d always been envious of the way he pampered the women he dated. Not that he’d ever treated her with less than the proper respect, but she always suspected his love interests felt cherished. Being the recipient of his adoration under this type of pretense didn’t feel right at all.

“Hush,” was the word he mouthed to her right before he slid his hand to the nape of her neck and pulled her forward to claim her lips. The unexpected kiss affected her like a lightning strike. She would’ve struggled from his embrace had the driver’s door not opened and Hollis Powell slid behind the wheel. Despite the man clearing his throat to announce his presence, Connor continued to kiss her. Rey made a low agitated sound in her throat, which resulted in a tiny nip to her bottom lip. His passion immobilized her, the pleasure he gave her was a resounding shock to her system.

Rey wasn’t the only one affected.

Dear God, Connor thought, pulling her close, she was so sweet. Lush, yet delicate. What started out as a chastisement quickly morphed into something entirely different. He had no desire to stop, his body wouldn’t have obeyed if he tried. Moving his hand from Rey’s back to her waist, he clasped her to him, kissing her over and over, completely intoxicated with the feel and taste of her lips beneath his.

Rey’s hand crept up to Connor’s neck, curling into his hair and tightening their grip. For a moment, she allowed herself to respond, rubbing her tongue to his, exploring his mouth. The emotional and physical hunger she felt for him almost made her forget that this wasn’t real.

Almost.

Placing a hand on his chest, she pushed, moving her head to the side. The act of severing the kiss was hard, but she had to do it. Trying to catch her breath, she rested her head on Connor’s broad shoulder. If the witness to their embrace was watching, her actions would appear as nothing more than a tender embrace.

God help her, she was in trouble.

Connor’s touch was like some drug that she could fast become addicted to. Rey realized she’d need to fortify herself for the emotional onslaught this weekend would bring or she’d end up getting hurt. Fighting the attraction she once felt for Connor would be a constant battle.

Holding her close, Connor absorbed the sweet heat of her body. He was far more shaken than he let on. Meeting Powell’s gaze in the rearview mirror, he frowned. “Shouldn’t we be on our way?”

“Yes, sir. We’re on our way.” He started the vehicle and pulled out into the road.

As soon as she felt composed, Rey sat up, extricating herself from his arms. She couldn’t meet Connor’s eyes, choosing instead to focus on the passing scenery. Dogwoods were in bloom, their creamy blossoms in sharp contrast to the bright green leaves surrounding them. Without trying, she recalled how the woods smelled after a rainstorm. Images of the lonely young girl she’d once been came back to haunt her.

“Where are you two from?” Hollis asked, breaking the silence.

Connor responded to his question, but Rey paid little attention. She was reliving the kiss that had rocked her world. A sliver of fear worked itself up her spine. If she didn’t want to get hurt, Rey would have to take measures to protect herself. 

Before long, the winding road from the airport broke into a clearing and a large custom log cabin came into view. This was no rustic habitat. Obviously, no expense had been spared. “How beautiful,” she couldn’t help but murmur.

“Yes, beautiful,” Connor agreed, but when Rey turned to meet his gaze, his eyes were on her and not their surroundings.

As soon as the SUV pulled up to the front door and stopped, Powell jumped out to open the back where their luggage was stored. “Stop it,” Rey hissed.

“Stop what?” Connor feigned innocence.

“None of that was necessary.”

“I beg to differ,” he responded, opening his door, then coming around to assist her from the vehicle. “You need to get used to me touching you if we’re going to fool anyone.”

“Welcome!” A masculine voice greeted them, interrupting their discussion. “How was your flight?”

Rey gratefully tore her attention from Connor to their host. A tall, well-built, middle-aged man stood on the steps with his hands jammed down in the front pocket of his well-worn jeans. His hair was salt and pepper gray, but his eyes were a clear, vibrant blue. She’d seen photos of Douglas Rogers before, but she had to admit they didn’t do him justice.

Connor placed a protective hand on the small of her back and moved her forward. They both greeted Doug warmly, thanking him for the hospitality. “I can’t wait to hear your ideas,” Rey told him with a smile.

“Well…well…what have we here?”

The sultry voice made Rey’s skin break out in chill bumps, and not the good kind. She heard the click of high heels as they moved languidly across the porch. At her side, Connor tensed, a move that damned him in Rey’s mind.

“Karin, how good to see you,” she heard him say.

The theatrics playing themselves out in her head weren’t lost on Rey. If a camera were fixed on her and filming, it would catch the slow raising of her head, the reluctance of her eyes as they found the woman whose past relationship with Connor necessitated this debacle.

Fuck me, Rey exclaimed silently. What in God’s name was Connor thinking? She was no match for this woman!

“Hello, darling,” Karin moved forward, in all her glory. “Douglas, I told you that Connor and I are old friends, didn’t I?” A cloud of expensive perfume proceeded her and the make-believe soundtrack to the movie playing in Rey’s head rose to a crescendo. Truthfully, she’d never seen a woman more perfect in every way than Karen Rogers. She was exquisite. If Rey had been a lesbian, she would’ve fallen headfirst for this vision of beauty. Blonde bombshell were the only words to properly describe her.

“Yes, I believe you mentioned that,” Doug said, as he opened the door for Hollis Powell to enter. “Take their things to the Audubon room on the second floor, if you will.”

Rey stood dumbfounded as Karin turned her attention away from Conner long enough to speak to her. “And this is Rita? How marvelous. You’re precious!”

How the woman make the word ‘precious’ sound like a put-down. Rey wasn’t certain. “The name’s Rey and thank you, Karin. I’m so glad to be here.”

Her words were wasted, for their hostess hooked her arm in Connor’s and began to lead him through the wide, ornate double doors. To give Douglas Rogers credit, he never missed a beat, offering his arm to Rey. “I’ve heard a lot of good things about you, young lady.”

“Thanks.” Once inside, she was momentarily distracted by the beauty and grandeur of the country home. Everything glowed with rich wood, expensive leather, and opulent art work. “Your home is amazing.” Her eyes flowed from a fireplace big enough to roast a steer, to a television that looked like a football stadium jumbotron. One wall was covered with mirrors and housed a wet bar big enough to pass as a saloon, while another held floor to ceiling bookcases, filled to the brim with expensive looking tomes. Douglas Rogers must like to read, because she doubted Karin could. Rey smirked at her own pettiness.

“Let me show you two to your room. Once you’re settled, we’ll have brunch, complete with mimosas. Douglas, check with Bettina and make sure everything is ready.” Karin’s voice was authoritative as she headed toward the staircase with Connor in tow, leaving Rey to bring up the rear. Poor Douglas, Rey thought, wondering if Karin was as controlling about everything.

The image of their hostess being controlling in the bedroom came to mind and Rey immediately tried to push it out, by seizing on the topic of food. “Brunch sounds good, Connor barely gave me enough time to eat a Pop-Tart this morning.”

“Some things are more important than food,” Connor murmured with a hint of suggestion in his tone.

Karin giggled, patting Connor’s arm. “I’m glad to know some things never change.”

Rey blushed, realizing they were talking about sex. She bit her tongue to keep from contradicting him. 

As they neared the top of the grand staircase, Karin stopped, causing Rey to almost crash into them. “Are you sure you don’t want separate rooms? I know Douglas and I like our own space.” She winked at Connor. “That way we don’t bother one another with our…extracurricular activities.”

Rey was about to jump on the offer, but Connor spoke up first and quickly. “No, I find I can’t sleep without Rey by my side. I like to have her close.”

Karin cast a disbelieving glance at Rey. “Very well.”

They continued on their way down a wide hall graced with paintings. When their hostess opened one of the doors, she entered first. “I’m sure you’ll be quite comfortable here. Come down when you’re ready, we’ll be waiting for you.” With a catlike smile, she caressed Connor’s cheek. “I look forward to our…negotiations.”

Once the woman was gone, Rey turned on Connor like a spitting kitten. “This isn’t going to work! I’m no threat to that woman. She looks like a Disney Princess and I’m…” she fumbled for a word… “Peter Pan!”

Connor chuckled. “Not Peter Pan. Tinkerbelle, maybe.” He enjoyed watching the discomfiture on Rey’s face. “You underestimate your appeal, Cassidy. Karin’s lack of subtlety gets old. I much prefer a challenge.”

Rey knew Connor enjoyed the chase. She also knew he’d never even been tempted to pursue her. “I still don’t think I can pull this off.” Turning away from him, she let her eyes rove around the room. “My God, this is decadent. The bed is huge!” Her body flushed with heat as she imagined sharing this bed with Connor. Images of them together, him rising over her, touching her… “This isn’t going to work.”

“Yes, it will. There’ll be plenty of room for both of us.” Connor noted there was no couch in sight, just a grouping of large leather chairs. “And look at the hot tub.” He explored further. “The ensuite bath is inviting. I think we can survive this.” Hearing some movement, he looked back at Rey. He had to smile when he saw her arranging pillows down the middle of the bed. “Are those supposed to keep me in my place, or you?”

The face she made at him spoke clearly of what she thought of his remark. “Both. Once we’re asleep, we might act out of habit, not caring who is in the bed with us.”

Connor found this interesting. “Ah, so you’re telling me you’re aggressive in bed?”

She chucked one of the pillows at his head. “I’m not telling you anything.” He didn’t need to know how limited her social life had been in the last few years. The business kept her hopping.

“Relax, Rey.” Connor switched tactics, becoming serious. “Everything is going to be fine, you just have to be more convincing and sure of yourself. Don’t make me be the only one who acts like we’re together. This deal could be the beginning of our state-wide outreach. We could start a whole new chapter in our lives.”

“I’m not the problem, Connor. Karin doesn’t even try to hide the fact she’s interested in you. I feel sorry for Douglas.”

“I’m sure the poor man is used to his wife, unfortunately. Why he chooses to put up with her isn’t our concern. All we need to do is get through the weekend and seal this business deal.”  

“I don’t know…” Rey leaned on the side of the bed, “this just seems so risky.”

“Look, I’ll make it worth your while.”

“What do you mean?” Rey tried to read his face.

“If we can get Roger’s signature on the dotted line, I’ll give you anything you want – a trip, diamonds, a new car – anything. You name it and it’s yours.”

Rey narrowed her eyes. “You’re willing to bribe me over this?”

“Absolutely.”

Rey bowed her head and covered her face with both hands. Connor was so handsome he made her eyes hurt. After years of fighting her own feelings for him, this was hard. “All right!” she finally blurted out. “Let’s do it. I’ll take one for the team for the sake of Whispering Pines or whatever we end up calling this place.”

“Yes!” Connor celebrated. He came forward and caught her in a hug, relishing the feel of her in his arms. “You won’t be sorry! I know we can do this.”

“I hope so,” she mumbled, her voice muffled against his shoulder. She didn’t want to go downstairs, she wanted to stand just like this and be held. 

Connor gave her a last squeeze before he let her go, moving a step back as if putting a safe distance between them. Clearing his throat, he asked, “So, what will it be? What do you want for making this happen?”

Rey shook her head. “I don’t know, I’ll have to think about it.” Frankly, she wasn’t tempted by any of the material things he mentioned.

“Fair enough.” He held out his hand. “Let’s go downstairs and put on an Oscar winning performance. Ready?”

Rey grimaced, but took his hand. “Ready or not, here we go.”

 

*  *  *

 “Here’s your usual, Connor.” Karin handed him a scotch, neat. “Just the way you like it.”

“Thank you.” Connor accepted the drink, being careful not to touch her fingers as he took the glass from her hand.

“What’s your pleasure, Rey?” Douglas asked good-naturedly as he manned the bar they all stood around.

Rey let her eyes collide with Connor’s. “Uh…rum and coke, light on the rum.”

As Doug poured her cocktail, he began to speak jovially. “I hope to make this weekend fun for us all, as well as being profitable. This afternoon, I want to show you the property and tomorrow we’ll venture out and experience a little bit of what the area has to offer.”

“Sounds great,” Connor answered, “We look forward to seeing everything. Don’t we sweetheart?”

Rey was about to answer, when she noticed in the mirror in front of them that Karin was moving closer to Connor, her hand going up to knead his shoulder. “Yes, we do. I intend to keep my eyes wide open to everything around me.” She took Connors hand in hers and pulled him closer, out of Karin’s reach, snuggling into his chest. “I’m a little cold. Will you hug me up?”

Connor wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close. “Gladly.”

Rey met Karin’s eyes in the mirror. “Thanks, baby.” The look of pure venom she received made her shiver, but it only served for Connor to clasp her tighter. Directing her attention to Doug, Rey got down to business. “Tell us more about your plans, Douglas. Will the resort be hotel style or cabins? Will there be a golf course? A spa?”

Before Doug could answer Karin piped up. “Let the men discuss business, Rita. I’m sure they don’t need your…”

“Rey is my partner, Karin. She’s an integral part of every decision. My company and my projects wouldn’t be what they are today without her.” Connor’s defense of her caused Rey’s heart to soar and made Karin’s face turn distinctly sour.

Doug seemed to pretend not to notice. She had to admire his ability to see only what he wanted to see.

“I hope we can do both. A grand hotel and small, well situated, cabins. And yes, a golf course is essential.” He paused to take a step. “A spa? I like the idea, how about you, Karin?”

Karin only grunted, seemingly unable to look anywhere but at Connor and Rey.

As soon as their drink was finished, Doug escorted them outside. Not far from the house, a heliport had been constructed in a clearing. “Our ride awaits,” he shouted over the noise of the blades whipping around.

Bending over, Connor and Rey ran together, climbing in after the Rogers’ were already seated.

“This is nice,” Rey admired the luxurious interior. They sat on a couch-like bench on one side, while their host and hostess sat across from them. The windows of the helicopter, in front and all sides, were large, giving them a panoramic view.

“Thank you, we’ve enjoyed using it.” As they flew through the air, Douglas Rogers continued to be gracious and informative. “The forests of East Texas aren’t as extensive as they once were, but I have committed myself to keeping this area as pristine and natural as possible.” As they rose higher into the air, he continued to speak. “Toledo Bend is huge, the largest man-made body of water in the South. Straddling the border between Texas and Louisiana, it gives us proximity and a bond with the best of both worlds – the cowboy culture of Texas and the sporting and mystique that only Louisiana has to offer.”

Rey was trying to listen, but Connor was still holding her hand. Now, he was cradling it his much larger one, his thumb rubbing the sensitive center of her palm. His casual caress was sending frissons of excitement over her entire body. If he could make her feel this from a simple touch, what could he do to her if he really tried?

“So, tell us about yourselves? How long have you been a couple?”

Karin’s question seemed innocuous, but Rey was aware of a hint of steel in her voice. Connor started to speak, but Rey squeezed his hand. “Not long, but we’ve known each other a long time. We met in college. I fell for him immediately, of course.” She smiled up at Connor. “Who wouldn’t? He’s amazing. There was no way I would’ve ever had the courage to approach him and I…” she demurely smiled, dipping her head, “I am clearly not his usual type.”

Connor kissed her on the forehead. “This beautiful woman has no idea of her own allure.”

Rey wished she could whisper for him not to lay it on too thick. “Let me tell the story, Connor.” He nodded and she picked up the tale. “One of our professors teamed us up together for a project and we worked well together. During our time in school, we were inseparable.” She gave them all a wry smile. “Not romantically. Connor and I kept our private lives private, but our dreams and hopes for the future ran too parallel to ignore.”

“Yes, I discovered she has an astounding ability to take the broad strokes of my ideas and turn them into a workable tapestry of details. If I can dream it, Rey can bring it to life.”

“Marvelous, I’m a little jealous,” Doug commented, glancing at Karin. “My wife’s greatest talent is spending my money.”

Everyone laughed as Karin gave her husband a knowing look. “I’m just grateful you have so much money to spend, darling. I’m sure you consider my devotion to you and your needs as suitable remuneration.”

Rey felt like gagging.

Doug, however, didn’t acknowledge Karin’s claim. He began speaking to the pilot, telling him to veer around by the dam at the southern tip of the lake.

“So, I know you haven’t always been a couple…” Karin continued to pursue the same topic with a bit of insinuation.

Connor’s past was littered with pretty women. They came and went so fast, she didn’t have time to pay much attention to them – nor did she want to. Karin’s involvement with him was just a blip on the radar. “No, but we’ve always been friends,” Rey answered, keeping her face devoid of emotion.

“Hey, sometimes I’m slow,” Connor said casually. “It took me awhile to figure out that my perfect woman was closer than I thought. She was right under my nose. We are a team in every way.”

Connor kissed Rey on the cheek and it took everything within her to not react beyond a slight smile, one she hoped reflected the confidence she supposedly had in the relationship. In truth, she sorta wanted to push him out of the helicopter. Everything he said was exactly what she used to wish for and him keying in on her dreams felt like a violation.

For the next little while, Doug held their attention, telling Connor about the history of the area and the proposed resort’s proximity to neighboring towns. “Natchitoches is fifty miles to the east and Nacogdoches is fifty miles to the west. Both are historical and have some great restaurants. There are several plantations in driving distance on the Louisiana side and some hunting preserves on the Texas side. I think we could offer a great family atmosphere with plenty of day trips to keep them occupied.”

Once the helicopter landed, they loaded up in Doug’s Jeep to get a closer look at the grounds. He showed them where the golf course might be built, an area for tennis courts, and the place where piers could be constructed for easy lake access. “The fishing is phenomenal in this lake. Several big bass tournaments are held here and we could become a sponsor easily.”

“How about horseback riding, is that a possibility?” Connor asked.

“Definitely, let me show you something.” Doug pulled off the narrow road and parked. “Let’s go take a look at this spot up ahead. There’s a meandering creek we could blaze the trail around and a good clearing for the corral.”

Rey started to get out, but Doug stopped her. “Neither of you ladies are wearing boots. We’re going to be walking through some bogs. I fully intend to put in nice raised sidewalks to protect our guests, but right now you two would be wading through some snaky country. I’d suggest you wait for us here.”

“I don’t mind spending some time with Rita,” Karin assured her husband.

This time, Rey didn’t even bother correcting her. Connor’s ex wasn’t using the wrong name out of forgetfulness, she was doing it out of spite. “Yes, we’ll be fine,” she assured Douglas.

The men were barely out of sight when Karin turned around in her seat to look Rey full in the face, her eyes shooting poisonous darts. “I just want you to know that I’m not buying you two as a couple. I know exactly what’s going on. Conner is using you to keep me at a distance, just to fool my husband. I know he wants me as much as I want him, like most men of his caliber, he’s putting business first. But I want to tell you, straight out, I intend to get what I want. I want Connor McGregor in my bed and no little mouse like you is going to stand between us.”

Taken aback, Rey held her tongue for about thirty seconds, then lowered the boom. “I’m sorry to spoil your party, Karin. Connor is his own man. He does what he wants. And for your information, your desperation isn’t very attractive.”

“Fuck you, you little bitch!”

Rey couldn’t help but grin as the other woman flounced out of the Jeep, refusing to wait with her until the men returned.

Oh, well, at least everything was out in the open.