An Unwilling Thief

An Unwilling Thief Elaina Huntley (c) 2008 ISBN 978-1-59578-469-8

An Unwilling Thief Elaina Huntley Published 2008 ISBN 978-1-59578-469-8 Published by Liquid Silver Books, imprint of Atlantic Bridge Publishing, 10509 Sedgegrass Dr, Indianapolis, Indiana 46235. Copyright © 2008, Elaina Huntley. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission of the author. Manufactured in the United States of America Liquid Silver Books http://LSbooks.com Email: [email protected] Editor Gail Foreman Cover Artist April Martinez This is a work of fiction. The characters, incidents and dialogues in this book are of the author’s imagination and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events or persons, living or dead, is completely coincidental.

Chapter One The departure from her former life had been a choice. Her return was not. Damn that man. Maggie McCleary hadn’t spoken to her father in five years, after turning her back on him and rejecting the life he represented. Being dragged back into his world by force really pissed her off. She needed to break in, steal the gem, and get the hell out. After the trade took place, she could return to her safe, normal life. Easing behind a tall maple tree, she paused to listen. Only the leaves rustling above her head and the muffled echo of branches clacking together softly in the still night air. Crisp scents of autumn mixed with the unmistakable perfume of darkness; the earthy odors were an exhilarating combination. In the distance, thunder rumbled across the sky. A storm was the perfect cover. Her muscles stretched taut, ready for action. Rock-hard nipples rubbed beneath her tight, black leather vest. Each step became a torturous jolt of pleasure. Blood pumped hotly through her veins, swiftly centering on the sweet spot between her legs until the ache became unbearable. The bitter-sweet taste of blood broke through the thick, dreamlike haze, and she pressed her tongue against the self-inflicted bite on her lip. Focus, Maggie. Sneaking around and close calls excited her like nothing else ever could, but tonight she needed a clear head. As she crept closer, her footsteps fell silently on the damp grass. The unlit house loomed up out of the darkness, and exhilaration surged through her muscles like wildfire. She stepped deeper into the blackness. Its large shadow swallowed her small form, hopefully rendering her undetectable to any curious eyes. Reaching a window at the darkest corner of the house, she paused to take a breath. A sense of total control sank down to the core of her being and spiraled outward, creating a dazzling veil of invincibility. It shouldn’t feel this good to her, the one part she loved most about being a thief. The sole aspect she missed in her risk-free, predictable life. With a respectable job in marketing and her secure choices in men, the outline of the years ahead looked suddenly very bleak and boring against this familiar backdrop of excitement. She shook her head. The long, dark ponytail brushed against her cheek and brought her back to reality. She didn’t have time to contemplate her life right now. She had a job to do. Unsnapping the small black case that rested comfortably on her hip, she opened it with a sense of reverence: Her tools. Each one custom-made for her hands. Gleaming silver against black velvet, they lined up in perfect arrangement, each neatly tucked into its individual slot. Choosing the exact one for the job was like picking a single dessert from a plate of

tempting choices, all exquisite in their own right, but only one the perfect compliment to the evening. With a quick snip, the thin black wire was severed, the security system rendered useless. A prickle of unease brushed electric currents over her sensitive skin, and the fine hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. The sloppy safety measures bothered her professional instincts. Who would leave a gem worth twelve-and-a-half million dollars unguarded like this? Panic reared up, drenching her in ice-cold chills and causing her chest to tighten with pain. Suddenly, her throat constricted, and she couldn’t breathe. Her fingernails dug into cool wood shingles, and she had to force her body to relax. This is no time for an anxiety attack. Come on, Maggie, get it together. Nerves, that’s all it was. Several slow, deep breaths eased the initial distress. Breathe in through the nose and out through the mouth. Sam’s life depended on her abilities to remain composed, and failure meant deadly consequences. She had no other choice. Stillness settled over her body, and her muscles unclenched grudgingly, until she gained control over her body once more. Years of training at the hands of a master burglar, her father, instilled this ability to detach. A highly valued skill in this trade and one she had thankfully remembered. After reaching the back door, Maggie first tried turning the knob. Humiliation and ridicule remained fresh in her mind at picking a lock already open. Though it happened years ago, she’d made that mistake only once. Nodding when the knob refused to move, she chose two small picks from her case and carefully inserted them into the keyhole. A Zen-like calm came over her, and she closed her eyes. The thin pieces of steel became one with her body as she slowly stroked the hard lock into releasing its hold with a soft click. With her tools back in place, she turned the doorknob and quietly slipped inside, closing the door carefully behind her without a sound. A few silent steps through the kitchen brought her to the hallway she sought. The kidnappers had provided a detailed layout of the house, the path and location of the safe clearly marked in red. Remembering the package, she shivered at the graphic repercussions for failure they had also included. She approached the study door and swung it open on well-oiled hinges. With a furtive glance back down the hallway, she slipped inside, shutting herself in total darkness. Again, a sense of unease crawled across her skin, raising the fine hairs along her arms. Pausing, she cocked her head and listened for any indication she wasn’t alone. A sudden flash of lightning lit up the room, and, satisfied, she sped to the large desk. Her hands made contact with the smooth wood. She let it guide her along the edge, careful to avoid any noise that would cause notice. The safe should be right behind the painting over the fireplace. Standing in the inky blackness, she lifted her hands until they brushed the edge of the frame. Another powerful burst of lightning illuminated the grotesque image of a dog directly in front of her, teeth bared as if grinning. A scream bubbled up in the back of her throat. The creature’s disproportionate eyes seemed almost alive, witnessing her latenight crime. She took a hasty step back, electric goose bumps dancing over her skin. It’s only a painting. Relax, Maggie. Remember, control. Swallowing the vile taste of fear once more, she lifted the hideous work of art off the

wall. When she bit down on the small mag light, an unpleasant metallic taste covered the tip of her tongue. Her teeth clenched tightly to keep the light steady and focus the narrow beam of light on the wall. Her brows dipped sharply at the archaic, ancient safe. That damned sensation teased across her skin once again. Turning slowly with the tiny light shining from her mouth, she peered into the blackness. Did that patch of darkness just move? Her body tensed, poised for flight, when shadows from the tree branches outside the window shivered again. She chuckled, returning to the job at hand. A miniature stethoscope released from her belt with a gentle tug. She slipped the tiny rubber nubs into her ears and laid the flat surface next to the dial. An audible click rewarded her slow, steady turning. One down. Back the opposite way, not too fast, click. This was it, the last turn, almost there. Click. Her body sagged, tension-filled muscles relaxing their grip and pent-up breath escaping with a soft sigh. Gripping the handle firmly, she eased it down and gave a quick tug. The door swung open silently. Caught in the flashlight beam, perfectly centered in the dark hole, sat a small black box. Draping the stethoscope around her neck, she reached inside, her hands trembling despite her success. This was it, the key to her father’s freedom. She tipped the lid carefully back on its tiny hinges, and the room exploded in a sparkling display of dancing lights, reflections off hundreds of facets of the brilliantly cut ruby, 19.25 carats of pure perfection. Breathtaking. Her eyes closed, and a deep inhale filled her lungs with the sweet breath of conquest. She had done it. Arms reached out of the darkness and grabbed her from behind. She screamed, and the tiny ray of light fell to the floor, rolling beneath the desk. Maggie erupted in a fury of movement, struggling against the unknown captor until a well-aimed kick made satisfying contact with bone. Only a grunt indicated she had landed the blow. The grip hadn’t loosened a fraction. “Stop,” a masculine voice commanded. “Settle down. You aren’t going anywhere.” Maggie froze at the familiar voice. Her heart stopped beating. No, it couldn’t be. “That’s better.” His hot breath washed against her ear, and uncontrollable flames licked along her spine. Oh God, it was him. Her ragged breathing cut through the silence. He forced her forward, his body electrifying against her back, and laid her across the large desk. He yanked her arms painfully behind her back, and the cold grip of handcuffs surrounded her wrists, snapping into place. “Now that you can’t go anywhere, let’s talk.” He jerked her roughly to her feet, only to release her immediately and walk across the room. She blinked against the sudden intrusion of brilliant white light, blinding after the darkness. She heard his abrupt intake of breath. “Christ. Maggie?” His face came into focus, and the shock and disbelief in his eyes made her shoulders sag. “Hello, Trevor.” He quickly recovered, his gaze narrowing on her. “Damn it. What the hell are you doing here?” His voice turned harsh, accusing. “I

thought you were done with this.” Her mouth opened and closed, but no explanation came. She knew how the current situation looked, and rather than incriminate herself, chose instead to remain mute. “Or are you?” A few long strides carried him across the room in a flash. He gripped her chin between his fingers, forcing her to meet his gaze. “Are you?” he demanded. The scathing speech she had been rehearsing for five long years deserted her without a backwards glance. He was here, her Trevor. God, even angry he was still incredibly handsome, maybe even more so. The years had been good to him. His dark hair now curled around his ears a little longer than she remembered. A well-groomed goatee gave him that reckless, bad-boy look she’d always found impossible to resist. Her gaze devoured the way his t-shirt clung to his upper body. His muscles strained against the tight cotton, accentuating the strength lurking beneath. He had taken good care of himself. Not an ounce of fat marred his lean frame. An image of him naked flashed through her mind, and her face heated with sudden fire. She should be raging at him for his past betrayal, but her body remembered only the pleasure and rebelled against her mind. She nervously wet her dry lips, and her breath hitched when his gaze dropped to her mouth, watching the motion of her tongue. “Maggie…” he said, the one word a warning. Though whether he was warning her or himself, she wasn’t sure. His eyes darkened until they were almost as black as the battle unmistakably waging within him. She prayed feverishly his common sense would lose out. Her heart raced, threatening to burst from her chest. Though the warning in his voice had been clear, she refused to listen. Her gaze settled on his lips. His sensuous and wonderfully talented lips. The fact that she had broken into someone’s home, attempted to steal a valuable gem, and been caught, instigated a fierce war against her need to touch him again … just once. The bite of steel at her wrists reminded her of the precariousness of her situation. Would he arrest her? Trevor. Did she whisper the plea out loud? At this moment she couldn’t stop herself any more than she could cease breathing. He cursed a second before his lips took possession of her mouth. She met his fervor with her own, desire exploding in her, their tongues battling for control. His fingers tightened in her hair and held her head immobile against his plundering kiss. His groan became lost in the hot recesses of her mouth. “God, Maggie, you still taste so sweet.” At his words, raw passion raged through her, the dizzying effects an aphrodisiac to her already heightened craving. She had never been able to deny him anything. Tonight was no exception. Even the years between them could not dim the desire he could evoke with just one kiss. “What the hell are you doing here?” The sensuous vibrations of his questioning skimmed across her lips before soft kisses trailed down her neck, making it impossible to answer coherently. “Never mind. All I want to do right now, this minute, is kiss you. Touch you. God, I missed you, Maggie.”

His words ignited a fire in her blood, and desire gave the room a strange red glow. She needed him now. Consequences be damned. It had always been this way between them, this sizzling passion, sparking whenever they touched. When his fingers brushed the valley between her breasts, her body jolted as if struck by lightning. The sensual sound of her zipper splitting open filled the quiet room, and his eyes caught fire when he spread it open, exposing the soft mounds to his hungry gaze. He cupped one breast gently and squeezed the firm globe, fingers pinching the hard peak and rolling it in a deliberate dance between pleasure and pain. His free hand administered the same treatment to the other side, and her moans grew more intense, coming from somewhere deep inside her. When he covered one achingly rigid bud with his hot mouth, she cried out. Teeth nipped the hard flesh until she wanted to scream. She hovered on the edge of insanity. Flames were consuming her body, and all that mattered was finding the sweet taste of release. “Please,” she said, begging. When his fingers brushed the ravished peaks, her appeal changed to a breathless moan. “Do you want me to stop, Maggie?” he murmured. “Tell me, and I will. God knows I don’t want to, but I will.” “I want you to keep touching me, please.” Her hoarse plea sounded like a shout in the quiet room. Moving her body restlessly, she strained to push her aching peaks closer to the source of pleasure. His mouth swiftly closed over the hard bud for a second time, and his fingers found the unattended mate, twisting and nipping and biting, until she again sobbed with need. At the height of pleasure, he pulled away once more. She cried out, and he watched her intently. He had always loved to see her perched on the edge like this, her body strung tight with anticipation, the unbearable need for his touch testing her restraint. How easy for them to fall back into such familiar roles. His fingers traced down across her midsection and dipped into her navel before running along the band of her pants. At his touch, her muscles contracted. “What am I going to do with you, Maggie mine?” The husky endearment slipped out, seemingly without thought. “I really should arrest your sweet ass.” He pulled down on the zipper resting at her hip, slowly lowering it, inch by inch, the tight leather splitting open to reveal her creamy skin. His hands seared red hot, sliding under the fabric and baring her heated flesh to the cool air. He knelt and tugged the pants off over her boots, tossing them aside. “My God.” His hands skimmed up the back of her legs, over the roundness of her ass, and finally twined with her bound fingers. He pressed a light kiss against her belly button. Her stomach jerked, and she moaned his name. His hot breath stirred the flesh between her legs, so close, yet not close enough to touch. He leaned forward, his tongue stroking along the outside of her smoothly shaven skin, touching and teasing the silky folds but avoiding the one spot where she craved friction most. Her hips moved in an effort to force him where she needed, but he danced away each time she got close. “Please, Trevor,” she panted. This torturous game he played threatened to drive her

over the boundary of sanity. His fingers tightened over hers, immobilizing her even further, while his free hand brushed across her hip to slip between her legs. One finger penetrated her, and he moved it in and out slowly, the slickness proving she was eager and very ready. Her hips moved in a deliberate rhythm, arching to meet his hand with each stroke. When a second finger joined the first, she threw back her head with a lust-filled moan. It had always been like this with Trevor, this intense and almost violent need to possess each other completely, turning into a powerful drug that was impossible to resist. The musky scent of her desire grew stronger with each drive of his fingers, until the heady perfume made her head swim. His thumb brushed over her clit, and she bucked, her breathing coming shallow and fast. The urgency within built swiftly. She was almost there. So close. Her hips rocked faster, and his fingers delved even deeper, stroking the sweet spot inside and sending her spiraling to teeter on a precarious edge. And then he stopped. Her desperate, guttural wail filled the room. He lifted her leg onto his shoulder, his light kisses covering the inside of her thigh. The intimate caress gentled her, as if she were a skittish foal. She stood spread open before him, unable to shield herself and unwilling even to try. Her body trembled with suspense. The edge of the hard desk pressed into her flesh just under the swell of her ass. When his tongue made contact with her swollen clit, she was grateful for the support the wood provided. Her entire body jerked at the scalding touch. Her hips began rocking again in an anxious pace. She ground herself against his mouth, her cries growing louder, the pleasure escalating to exquisite proportions. When his teeth grazed the sensitive bud, she shrieked, and shockwaves cascaded over her, Arctic cold and lava hot all at once. Every muscle labored against itself, and her nerves tensed. His mouth suckled harder, and her body coiled itself to explode. Again he stopped. She howled, her reality centering on this one second in time, on the need to come. Her engorged clit pulsed in agony, the ultra-sensitive bud aching for the touch that would send her to oblivion. He laved her once, took her one tiny step nearer, and stopped. Her muscles clenched. “Say it,” he said, his words commanding. His tongue ran over her in slow circles, keeping the fire burning just beyond her reach. “Damn you!” Her body ached for release, but he withheld it. His tongue tortured her deliberately with long, slow licks against her swollen flesh. “Say it, Maggie. Say it, and I’ll give you anything you want.” He pulled her clit into his mouth and sucked furiously, bringing her flying back to the brink, only to stop again. “Damn you, Trevor. Please, I need you to make me come. I want you! Oh God, please!” “What else, Maggie?” She was in a frenzy, and nothing else mattered. “You’re the only one, Trevor, the only one who can make me feel like this. I need you, please. I’m yours!” It was the truth. Her body was his. His tongue delved between her legs, circling her clit, nipping, tasting, and biting to send her soaring back to the edge. This time though, he took her over the precipice.

When it hit, she screamed his name and thrashed against him. He rode her climax hard, plunged his tongue into her slick depths, and she sank deeper into the burning orgasm. Convulsing, violent pleasure flooded her body with painful intensity. Nothing existed in that moment except the sweet bliss that filled her. As his tongue slowly licked the throbbing bud, Maggie sucked in great breaths of air. Electric aftershocks sizzled through her with each stroke. Her leg slid limply down his arm and rested unsteadily on the floor. His strong hand held her upright, and he unzipped his pants with haste. A quick tug lowered them enough. Hard flesh sprang free, the weight of it hot against her stomach. His mouth tugged at her taut nipple before continuing upwards, along her jaw, to settle on her mouth. His kiss both demanding and possessive. “Over the desk.” He breathed the words against her mouth, and stars exploded in a wave of new desire. She burned from the inside out and welcomed the sweet demise. Turning, she bent, her damp skin pressed against the cool, solid wood. Her shoulders ached from the position, and steel restraints bit into her, feeding the gripping hunger to give him everything he demanded of her. His hands held her hips firm, and he slid into her … one long, hard thrust. They groaned in unison. She tightened around him, helpless to fight the response his body exacted. He pulled out until just the tip rested inside her and then buried himself deep inside again. The hard desk immobilized her body for his forceful invasion, freeing her to enjoy it. To savor each delicious, endless stroke. With each thrust, his fingers slipped between her legs and squeezed her aching clit. Another climax burst over her, and she clenched tight around his cock, her body straining from the intensity. His free hand tightened in her hair, and he yanked her head back, riding her climax until he froze above her, the intense spasms of her sex making him explode. His harsh shout of release echoed off the walls and across the room. He pulled away and panted for air, his hands gentle and kneading the soft flesh of her ass. His eyes closed, his flesh still pulsing inside her. “What am I going to do with you?” he asked again. Despite herself, a throaty laugh escaped. “Isn’t it a little too late for that question?” He slipped out, and the warmth of his lips touched the small of her back before the distinct rasping of a zipper reached her ears. With gentle hands, he pulled her upright. Keys jingled, and the cuffs dropped away. Pins and needles pricked her flesh, and she tried to rub away the stinging bites. He turned her around to face him, tenderly brushing back a sweat-dampened lock of hair that fell over her eyes. Placing a sweet, lazy kiss on her lips, he sighed. “Seriously, Maggie, what the hell are you doing here in the middle of a sting operation set up for your father?” Confusion overrode her passion-clouded mind. “My father? He was kidnapped. I came here to steal the ruby in exchange for his life.” She realized then that the small box had fallen from her hands. When had she dropped it? She refastened her vest and covertly glanced around the floor. It had to be here. “We need to get out. You can’t be here if someone else shows up. I’m not ready to

explain you to anyone just yet.” He handed her the pants he had tossed aside earlier. “What about the owner of the house?” She cringed when her leather pants slid over the stickiness coating her inner thighs. Her favorite pair of pants was ruined. There had to be a bathroom nearby. “A friend of the captain. We used this place as a trap. Shit. Twelve months of planning down the drain.” He locked her wrist in his tight grasp and all but dragged her along the hall. “Can’t I freshen up?” She eyed a small half-bath as they passed by. “No time. We need to leave. Now.” “What about the ruby?” Her desperate cry stopped him in the middle of the kitchen. “It doesn’t matter.” “But, Trevor, I need it. My father’s life depends on it.” “It’s a fake, Maggie. We had it made for this operation.” His voice turned hard. “Now it’s useless.” She froze. “Fake? How? Why?” “I told you, we were trying to lure your father here. A few hints dropped in the right circles, and it should have been a done deal. I still don’t understand how you got involved.” He said the last to himself. He took her hand, pulled her out of the house and along the edge of the gravel driveway. His car was parked behind the small outbuilding all along, hidden from her sight. When they reached his vehicle, she finally pulled free. “What are you doing?” “We have to leave. If we get caught, I can’t come up with a single excuse why I’m not hauling your ass in. Something went wrong tonight, and I sure as hell don’t know what. You were set up, and I want to know why. Until then, I’m not letting you out of my sight.” “So what are you going to do? Handcuff me to your side?” She fumed at being told what to do. “If I have to, yes.” His clipped reply told her he was serious. He reached into his car and pulled out the radio. “This is Sinclair. Premise is secure. No sign of activity tonight. Send an unmarked to sit for the rest of the night, I’m heading home.” He received confirmation of his orders and brought her around to the passenger side, opening the door for her. “You’re serious about this?” Though relieved and confused over the lie he’d told his superiors, she still refused to get in. “Yes.” “You can’t possibly think I’m staying with you?” “I do, and you will.” “Like hell, Trevor. You can’t just reappear in my life, uninvited and out of the blue, and think you can take it over like that.” When she snapped her fingers right under his nose, his eyes narrowed. “Yeah, like I thought I would run into you tonight. Christ, Maggie, you’re the last person I wanted to see on this stakeout.” “Well, since we both didn’t want it, let’s just go our separate ways and pretend it never happened.”

“No. Not until I figure out who sent you here.” “Well, I told you why I was here. To save my father.” As her failure sank in, a sick feeling settled in the pit of her stomach. There was no chance now; the gem was a fake, and she had nothing to trade for her father’s freedom. “Shit, I could lose my job over this, you know. Four years on the force gone like that.” This time, he snapped his fingers under her nose. She slapped away his hand. “Oh, excuse me. My father’s life is so much less important than your job.” “Hell, your father’s life isn’t worth too much, Maggie. He’s a wanted criminal. That means I’ll find him, no matter what, and he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.” “What did he ever do to you?” Rage contorted his face. “He took everything from me.” She rubbed the throbbing spot above her temples. This was insane. They stood arguing in the dark about a father she hadn’t seen in years and about Trevor’s sudden need to protect her. When he walked away, a voice inside her head chided: He sure as hell wasn’t worried then. Her father had been right about that, at least. Her resolve strengthened. Tonight had been nothing more than a moment of weakness to be forgotten. A mind-blowing, toe-curling moment of weakness and nothing more. She turned and started walking across the gravel driveway, her boots crunching on the stones with each step. Her car lay on the other side of the hedges. She would get in and drive home, take a hot shower, and get some sleep. And forget about tonight. “Maggie!” His irritated shout came from behind her. Instinct kicked in, and she bolted. It wasn’t too far. If she could reach her car and lock the doors, he couldn’t do anything about it. “Damn it!” As he pursued her, small rocks scattered. A shriek escaped her, and she practically flew across the driveway, awareness of his proximity prickling along her neck. If he reached her, she would have no other choice. A few more feet; she was almost there. He tackled her from behind, the impact sending them both to the ground. He turned his body the instant before landing and absorbed the shock of the fall, cradling her in his arms. He rolled over and pinned her to the ground, straddling her waist and holding her arms above her head. The sharp bite of gravel against her skin infuriated her even more. “Get off me.” “No. I told you I wasn’t letting you out of my sight.” “Let me go.” “Are you going to behave and come with me nicely?” “No way in hell.” “Have it your way.” He held her hands in one of his and fished behind his back. A quick snap of metal, and he had handcuffed her again. “Uncuff me right this minute, Trevor!” He stood quickly and shook his head. “No. You wanted to do it the hard way, so enjoy the bed you made.” He scooped her up and draped her over his shoulder like a sack of potatoes. “You fucking caveman, put me down.” The hard slap on her ass informed her he’d

heard her tirade. She let loose another string of sailor-worthy cursing, and he laughed. “Always the lady, Maggie.” “So are you going to just leave me handcuffed to your side, genius?” “If I have to.”

Chapter Two Maggie’s body felt like lead. The evening hadn’t gone at all as planned, especially the part where she had incredible sex with her ex-lover. Her hands were released as soon as they were safely inside his apartment. Looking around, she marveled at the warmth of his place. The open floor-plan was sparsely furnished, yet tasteful, with dark furniture groupings in inviting layouts. The row of windows gave the space a cozy, welcoming feeling. Her mood immediately soured. She didn’t want to feel welcome in his home. She didn’t even want to be there! “If you’re so hell bent on protecting me, you can sleep there.” She indicated his couch with a dismissive wave of her hand. “I want a real bed.” “Right through there.” He pointed to a door on the left. A devilish grin covered his face. “Sure you want to sleep alone?” She stomped to the door, slamming it on his taunting laughter. Sagging against the cool wood, she closed her eyes. How was she going to survive being around him after everything he’d put her through? That smug, gorgeous, infuriating man on the couch had broken her heart, and she had made a vow never to trust him again. In spite of that promise to herself, here she stood, in his apartment, in his bedroom, no less. Not only did she have sex with him tonight, she was getting ready to sleep in his bed, as well. The scathing speech she had been rehearsing for five years had deserted her earlier at his first touch. Her mind screamed at him, but her body remembered his touch, responding with overzealous betrayal. He coaxed the wanton woman out of her, once again, and even made her beg for his touch. It would be too easy to succumb over and over to his charming ways. Striding into the adjoining bathroom, she peeled off her clothes. She needed to wash off the evidence that he’d mastered her body so easily. Steam billowed out into the small room. As the water washed away the physical remnants of the night, she relaxed, her mind numb. When she lathered herself, the scent of his soap engulfed her senses. Hot rivers cascaded over curves, and her fingers followed their path downward, washing slick bubbles from her skin. Her fingers brushed over tight nipples, and the memory of his hands there drew a sigh of pleasure. Warmth pooled between her legs despite the number of orgasms he’d drawn from her tonight. She groaned in the thick, humid air. Stop it, Maggie. Sobering irony stilled her restless hands when she realized what she was doing, where she was. His bathroom. The man she’d vowed to hate for betraying her trust. Her head bowed, and tears began falling unchecked. What was happening to her? A week ago, her life had been fine, her heart safely guarded against any chance of injury. One night. Damn it, it took only one night for five years’ worth of walls to crumble. What cruel fate had thrust Trevor back into her life? What had she done to deserve this? Stepping from the shower, she wrapped a large, soft towel around herself, using one end to squeeze the moisture from her long hair. In the fog-covered mirror, she paused to

stare at the distorted image of a stranger from her past. Her hand slid across the glass slowly, revealing her own satiated, exhausted reflection. A few minutes later, she climbed into bed, wearing a black t-shirt she found in a dresser. It smelled like him, the scent masculine, potent. So did the blanket. His pillow. The whole room. It was an agonizing torture, a cruel foreplay of silent memories. Maggie lay surrounded by darkness. She was crashing hard, her limbs heavy on the soft mattress, muscles incapable of even simple movement. When the door opened, her eyes snapped shut. Over the roar of her pulse, she listened to his soft footsteps on the hard wood floor as he crossed to the bathroom. The shower sprang to life once more. Lulled by the drone of water, she drifted into a restless sleep. Her dreams filled with him at once. His hands were everywhere on her body, teasing her hard nipples, caressing between her legs until she was slick with desire. Her thighs clenched together in urgency, soft whimpers of pleasure escaping into the cool night air. Her climax peaked, exploding over her sleeping body, wrenching a sob of raw pleasure from between her lips. The force of release pulled her awake. Her gaze ensnared in Trevor’s, mere inches away. “Maggie,” his hoarse voice whispered. Focusing on his face, she realized what had happened. The man in her dreams stood next to the bed larger than life, a towel wrapped precariously around his waist. His wet hair dripped icy-cold droplets on the hot skin of her arm. Swallowing against the sudden lump in her throat, she stroked his bare chest with a hungry gaze, longing to run her tongue over the hard ridges, to feel his skin jump under the rake of her fingernails. Cupping her cheek in his hand, he groaned, his thumb caressing the ripeness of her bottom lip. His arousal pushed against the towel, straining to break free. “Maggie…” Her breath hitched. She leaned into his hand, the soft unspoken appeal in his voice nearly her undoing. “Goodnight, Trevor,” she whispered. Her eyes closed against the look of a starving man in need of food. She had to be strong. Their situation was temporary. She could not give in to him, no matter how much pleasure he promised. Her body could cope with losing him again. Her heart could not. He sighed with obvious regret. “Okay. We’ll talk in the morning.” He turned to leave, hesitated, then bent down to place a tender kiss against her lips. “Sweet dreams, Maggie mine.” She opened her mouth to call him back, but no sound came out. Then he was gone. **** Voices. Maggie swore she heard voices, and one was definitely female. Was she dreaming again? Where was she? A deep inhale brought back the previous night’s escapades, along with a lung full of his scent. The urge to crawl back under the covers, to sleep away this nightmare, curled around her, and only innate curiousness pulled her from the warm cocoon. Well, didn’t they always say “curiosity killed the cat”? Did that hold true for a cat burglar? She would find out now. Slipping from the bed, she held the blanket tight around her shoulders, creeping to

the door. Pressing her ear against it, she tried to eavesdrop. Damn it, I can’t hear a thing. Slowly turning the knob, she opened the door a crack. “So what’s the plan?” The question came from a stunning blonde sitting in the middle of the couch, sipping from a cup of coffee. “I don’t know. Last night shouldn’t have happened. Bringing her here was probably a huge mistake, but it seemed like the only choice.” Trevor was out of eyesight, but she could still hear the regret in his voice. Maggie’s stomach twisted painfully. What the hell did she care? She didn’t want to be here, anyway! Closing the door, she crossed to the bed to sit. She couldn’t even get dressed, because she had no clothes. She fought the sudden desire to cry. A knock on the door made her jump. “Come in,” she mumbled. In walked the blonde, carrying a small bag that she set down next to Maggie. “Hi. I’m Amanda. You’re Maggie, I take it.” She extended her well-manicured hand. Jealousy flared to life. Maggie sat looking at Amanda’s outstretched hand, refusing to accept the greeting, and feeling like a five-year-old because of it. To her surprise, the girl burst out laughing. “Oh, you have it as bad as he does. I’ve known Trevor for almost five years. I’ve tried to set him up with every eligible friend I have. I think he enjoys playing the brooding loner. He doesn’t realize that makes women even hotter to catch his interest.” Maggie couldn’t figure out this strange woman’s motive. Was she marking her territory? Showing that Trevor belonged to her? “I’m telling you this,” Amanda said, “because from the minute I walked in, you’ve been shooting daggers at me. I was trying to hint that you have nothing to worry about. Trev and I are just friends. He was my brother’s partner, and when Jake was killed on duty, Trevor took it upon himself to look after me. Oh, don’t get me wrong, I tried like hell to get him to see me as more than his friend’s little sister, but he’s a one-woman man.” Maggie’s stomach flipped over. So he did have someone in his life. Someone important, from the sound of it. Of course he did. He was incredibly handsome and funny, everything a woman would want. Maggie hated the unknown woman already. Her mind suddenly froze. What about last night? Damn him, he had sex with her last night. What kind of pig had he turned into? “Ask him about her, Maggie. I’m sure he’ll tell you.” Maggie’s face must have shown her disbelief, because Amanda squeezed her hand. “You really should ask him.” Yeah, right. The last thing she wanted to do was question him about his new lover. A woman who had the ability to make him stay, something she hadn’t been able to do. “Anyway, I brought you some clothes. He called this morning to ask if I had anything I could bring over. I live down the hall. We look about the same size, so something there should fit. At least, until you can get your own clothes. It was nice meeting you, Maggie. I’ve heard so much about you.” The blonde gave her a quick hug before leaving. **** Maggie strode out through the bedroom door, slamming it shut behind her. Gritting

her teeth, she surveyed the room. The blonde was gone, but Trevor sat relaxed on the couch, as if nothing were amiss. Charging over, she stood in front of him, hands on her hips, her face flushed with fury. “You two-timing asshole!” she shouted. Her finger poked against his chest. “You had sex with me last night. You have a girlfriend? You’re more of a jerk than I remember!” “What the hell are you talking about? Amanda?” he snorted. “She’s just a friend.” “I know that, I mean the other woman you can’t stop talking about. Yeah, she told me. See, you can’t deny it! Oh, I could kill you.” “Maggie.” A touch of amusement tinged his voice. “I can explain.” “Never mind, you don’t owe me anything. It’s not like you wanted to bring me back here, because last night was such a mistake.” Why were tears burning her eyes? She didn’t want him back! He grabbed her suddenly, pulling her down into his lap, and wrapped his arms around her resisting body to hold her, so she couldn’t escape. “Maggie, listen to me. I didn’t leave you because I wanted to.” “Then why did you?” she demanded. He shook his head. Why couldn’t he just tell her the truth? Tell her anything? No, he was as enigmatic as Yoda. “See,” she said angrily. “You can’t even defend yourself. Face it. God, you’re such a typical male. Grass is always greener, huh?” She struggled to get out of his arms. “Well this lawn is off-limits from now on!” Laughter burst from him. “Lawn? You talk the talk, Maggie, but can you walk the walk?” His mouth covered her startled gasp, and his tongue slid between her lips, coaxing her to open for him. Possessively, he stroked the inside of her mouth. Where his lips stopped and hers began became blurred, and she gave in to the pull. Her arms tightened around his neck, and he dragged her onto his lap, her legs straddling his waist. His hands gripped her hips, moving her back and forth in deliberate motion against his hardness. They groaned in unison. “We can’t do this,” she panted. “Why?” Had the lack of blood to his head hindered his ability to think? “Because you’re involved with someone, and I promised myself I would never fall for you again.” She climbed off his lap, standing before him on trembling legs. “Maggie…” he began. She cut him off mid-sentence. “No. Let’s agree to figure this out as soon as possible then go our separate ways. Okay?” “Will you please…” Again, she preempted him with a wave of her hand. “No! No more. We were over years ago when you left. That was your choice, not mine. It’s too late for anything now. We both moved on, and it needs to stay that way.” Saying the words made her heart ache painfully. She was determined not to let him close enough to hurt her ever again. “What about this?” His finger brushed across the hard nipple protruding from the

silky fabric of her borrowed shirt. “Can’t happen again,” she said. “Are you sure, Maggie?” When he pinched the hard bud, she gasped out loud. Her knees weakened by the second. He taunted her deliberately, drawing a response from her body against her will. His free hand rose up her bare leg, slipping under the skirt she wore. Deft fingers pushed aside the fabric covering her most intimate parts to sink into her silken depths, already slick with desire. “And this?” he asked. His fingers glided in and out of her body in an unhurried pace. Gripping his shoulders, she rocked her hips, intense bursts of pleasure at war with her convictions. She had to stop this, but damn it, she couldn’t. Each time his fingers brushed her clit, her body betrayed her. Jolts of passion pulsed through her, and she begged him for more. His hand sped up, and her body bucked against him. She threw her head back and closed her eyes. No matter what else lay between them, she couldn’t deny this, the pleasure he gave her. Her cries grew louder, and she surged closer to the edge. His encouraging words sent her spiraling faster. She strained towards the sweet taste of climax, her body tense. His fingers plunged deeper, hitting the sweet spot that sent her over the edge. Her moans echoed throughout the small apartment, delicious shivers ravishing her body. She stood before him on wobbly legs, her eyes glazed, unfocused. His fingers slowly slid from her, leaving a slick trail across her inner thigh. “Tell me you’re sure now, Maggie.” he whispered. His strong hands held her unsteady body upright. She wasn’t sure; that was the trouble. Every time he touched her, she forgot. Forgot the pain of his disappearance years ago, the agony of moving on alone. “No, I’m not sure,” she panted. “But it can’t happen again. It’s too late for us.” The anguish in her voice stopped him for now. The small reprieve allowed her to regain some control, focus on the present. She needed to get out of there before she made a fool of herself. It was becoming too easy to give in, to allow her daydreams to become reality. Let him think she wasn’t going anywhere, and then she could disappear. After all, he’d done it to her, so he of all people would understand.

Chapter Three “So, Maggie, is being a cat burglar as exciting as it sounds?” Amanda asked. That afternoon, the three of them sat around Trevor’s table, trying to come up with a plan. So far, several made it past contemplation to the discard pile, yet a viable option remained elusive. Maggie laughed. “And more. There’s something so exhilarating about it, a freedom outside the laws of society. Everything is hyper-stimulated, and you have to focus on every tiny detail. The rush is like nothing you’ve ever felt.” She glanced at Trevor, who watched her, his eyes intent, questioning. “Wow,” Amanda gushed. “Maybe I should try it. I need some excitement in my life.” “No,” Maggie and Trevor said at the same time. Trevor cleared his throat in an effort to refocus the group. “This is what we know for sure. The information was given to the right people, my contact assured me of that. We know that someone got the intel, because they sent Maggie in after the ruby. So, who and why?” “Someone has Sam and is using him to pull the strings,” Maggie added. “The note gave me explicit instructions and graphic details of what would happen if I failed.” “What would be the next step? If you succeeded?” he asked. “After I had the ruby, I would receive further instructions. I was to wait until I heard from them.” “Did they say how they were going to contact you?” “Another note, I assume. The first one was slipped under my door a few weeks ago.” “So they know where you live. You can’t go back there now.” The finality in his voice dared her to argue. “What about my things? I need clothes, you know. Unless you plan on keeping me here naked.” The look that flashed across his face made her blush. Amanda burst out in laughter. “So why can’t you just use the fake ruby?” Amanda asked. Her suggestion was met by a sudden silence, and Trevor and Maggie looked at each other in stunned shock. “I know, I know, stupid idea. Forget the dumb blonde said anything,” Amanda said. “Amanda, you may have solved the problem,” Trevor said, speaking slowly, as though an idea were taking shape in his mind. He laughed out loud. “It could work. Whoever set you up, Maggie, would have no idea the ruby was a fake. We have to assume they’ll still contact you for a meeting.” He jumped up to pace, his voice growing louder, more excited. “This could work. When you meet for the exchange, we’ll be ready. We’ll get not only your father but whoever is behind all of this, too. Amanda, you’re a genius!” As Amanda basked in the glowing praise, Maggie sat back to ponder the rush of conflicting emotion his words evoked. Though she hadn’t had any contact with him, the fact remained that the man was still her father. The thought of him behind bars for the rest of his life unsettled her.

Trevor must have noticed the emotions racing across her face. He knelt before her and took her clammy hand in his, stroking her palm with his fingers. “Maggie, I know this is difficult for you.” She trembled under his touch, tiny shockwaves of excitement battled against the pit of dread in her stomach. “He’s my father, Trevor. Being part of a plan that will lock him up feels wrong somehow. No matter how I feel about him.” “He needs to be put away, Maggie.” His voice turned hard, and he pulled away. “He’s done things you know nothing about. He isn’t just a thief anymore. He’s also wanted in connection with an unsolved murder.” She cried out, “No! He isn’t that kind of man. He would never kill another human being.” “The evidence says otherwise.” “Well, the evidence is wrong! You know him as well as I do, Trevor. He’s a thief, that’s all.” He sighed. “I know him better than you do.” “Then you know he wouldn’t do that.” Doubt crept into her mind even as she voiced the words. Trevor had no reason to lie to her. He’d stated it in such a matter-of-fact way she actually did half believe him. Though he could be mistaken, she didn’t think he was the kind of man to jump to conclusions without solid evidence. How well did she really know her father? Years prior, even when they were on speaking terms, their relationship was more professional than loving. What she needed to do was talk to her father, ask him. She had to arrange a meeting with the kidnappers before the exchange; she held the ace right now in the form of the gem. She was calling the shots. The only problem was Trevor. She had to get away from him to put her plan in motion, but he had glued himself to her side since last night. Complacency. She had to appear resigned, willing to help him. She had to show him she was not going to try and escape. “I’ll do whatever I can to help.” She told the truth, the conviction of her words lending credit to her statement, making it ring sincere. “Thank you, Maggie.” He placed a soft kiss against her lips. When he pulled away, she almost cried out. The feel of his lips retreating caused an overwhelming surge of panic. She was losing something vital to her very existence and was powerless to stop it. **** “So how long have you known Trevor?” Amanda asked Maggie. The two women sat at the small table in his kitchenette, sipping freshly brewed iced tea. Maggie had finally convinced Trevor it was okay to leave her with Amanda. She wasn’t going anywhere, and he could set the first part of their plan into motion. Crossing her fingers, she had kissed him goodbye, lying the whole time. It made her sick. If only there was another way. Maggie hated betraying his trust like this. Deceiving the woman across from her would be hard too. She liked Amanda; the enigmatic blonde had accepted her right away, and there was a sisterly bond forming already. “Years,” Maggie finally replied. She had to be careful. Amanda couldn’t suspect a

thing. “He and I basically grew up together. My father found him on the street. Trevor had picked his pocket, and that impressed Sam, so he took him under his wing. He taught us to steal together.” Maggie shifted in her seat, unsure how much of his past Trevor had revealed to his friends. “It’s okay,” Amanda said. “Anything you tell me is between us. He and Jake were best friends. I heard bits and pieces about his past over the years. He never told me directly. I think he felt a little ashamed of it.” Maggie nodded. She knew exactly how he felt about bringing the past into his current life. When she realized she was also part of the past he shunned, a momentary tinge of remorse gripped her. “So where were his parents? What happened to them?” asked Amanda. “I don’t know. That was one thing he never ever talked about. It wasn’t important to my father, so he never pushed Trevor for details.” “So your father trained the two of you to be thieves? That’s pretty wild.” “Yeah, well, it was all for his benefit, anyway. He had grand plans for the three of us. He was really pissed when Trevor changed direction and wanted to go into law enforcement. When I left, he wasn’t too happy, either.” “Why did you leave?” “Without Trevor, there was nothing left for me. When he left, I didn’t have the heart for it. We planned to get out together, live normal lives, but then he walked away without me. He didn’t even say goodbye. He broke my heart the day he left.” The last part was a soft whisper, the painful wound having been so recently reopened. “Maybe he had a good reason,” Amanda said. “It doesn’t sound like him to just walk away like that, not if he loved you so much.” Maggie’s laugh sounded bitter, even to her own ears. “He didn’t love me. If he did, he would have at least given me an explanation. Besides, my father told me why he left. I was just a fun distraction. Trevor would never settle down with a thief, especially with his new plans to be a detective.” “Maybe you should ask Trevor why he left,” she said. “I did, yesterday. He couldn’t give me a straight answer, said I wouldn’t understand. It’s pretty clear to me he’s moved on. He didn’t deny that either.” Amanda looked startled. “He said he was involved with someone else?” “Well, not in so many words. I told him we had both moved on, that it needed to stay that way. He agreed.” “Really?” Maggie set her cup down and stood. The time had come to put her plan into motion. She raised her arms over her head, giving an exaggerated yawn. “I think I’m going to take a nap. I’m tired and need some time to think.” “Okay, I’ll be out here if you need anything.” “Thanks.” Maggie turned towards the bedroom. “Maggie, I’m so glad I met you. You’re like the sister I always wanted.” The sentiment made Maggie feel even worse for what she was about to do. **** Breaking out was surprisingly easy for a recently un-retired thief.

After stuffing the bed with pillows and turning off the lights, she simply slipped through the bathroom window into the back garden. Trees provided the perfect cover; her escape had gone undetected. Maggie walked out of the gate, releasing her pent-up breath, and hailed a cab. The ride to her apartment was uneventful until she paid the cabbie. As she handed over the three crisp twenties, stolen from Amanda’s purse, guilt rushed through her. Her money and keys were still in her car, which could be anywhere by now. The situation warranted the petty theft, but she hated herself for doing it. Rounding the last corner of the narrow hallway in her building, she saw that her door stood ajar. Apprehension danced along her spine. No one else had a key to the apartment except the superintendent of the building. What would he be doing in her home? She pushed open the door and stopped dead in her tracks. At the destruction, tears filled her eyes. Her belongings had been tossed around the room. Broken lamps, upturned drawers, and torn books littered the floor. Sofa cushions were slashed to pieces, and bits of stuffing clung to everything like newly fallen snow. A sob rose up in her throat, and she pressed the back of her hand to her mouth to keep from crying out loud. Why? A soft thump came from her bedroom, causing the hairs on her arms to stand on end. They were still here. In her home. War raged within her. Her first instinct was to confront them, to beat the shit out of whoever had defiled her sanctuary. Logical thought won out; they could be armed. She froze in indecision, the minutes ticking by. Soon this person would come out and see her, yet her legs still wouldn’t move. Frustration welled up, and Maggie wanted to scream. Move! What the hell was wrong with her? She had to do something soon. Too late, the footsteps from the bedroom grew closer. Her heart raced. She was going to be caught, and then what would happen? She opened her mouth to yell. Before any sound escaped, a hand covered her mouth from behind. She froze, terror sinking to the pit of her stomach. She hadn’t thought there’d be more than one burglar. Strong arms enveloped her body, yanking her through the doorway. She trembled, firmly held within his grasp, tears spilling down over his hand. “Shhh, it’s okay, Maggie. It’s me.” His steady voice broke through her red haze of panic, and she swallowed back her sob. Trevor. “Later, we’ll talk about what the hell you’re doing here when I told you to stay put. Get behind me. Whoever’s in there will get a nasty surprise when they walk out the door.” He pulled his revolver from its holster, pressing his back against the wall like she’d seen in the movies. The robber had almost reached the door. It swung inward, and a figure appeared in the doorway. “Police. Freeze.” Trevor stepped in front of the man, his hand steady, gun raised. In an explosion of movement, the robber made a sudden lunge for Trevor, an evillooking knife raised over his head. The ensuing blast sounded deafening in the small hallway. As the man fell to the ground, Maggie covered her ears and screamed. Bright red blood oozed from the hole in the man’s chest. “Damn it!” Trevor shouted. He felt the man’s neck for any sign of life. “Shit. He came at me too fast.”

Maggie’s wide-eyed gaze fixed on the dead man, his body lying in her doorway. Hysteria reared up, and she fought back a wave of vomit. Tiny whimpers escaped from between her lips. “Shhh. It’s over, Maggie,” Trevor said. He was there, the strength of his arms enclosing her in a tight, protective cocoon. Her fingers clenched his shirt, holding on as if her life depended on it. “Don’t look. You don’t need to see this.” She pressed her face to his shoulder, and he shielded her with his body from the grisly scene. Focusing on the warmth of his hand softly stroking her face, she relaxed, the tremors subsiding, until she could draw in an unwavering breath. At that moment, police burst into the hallway with guns drawn, pointed at Trevor, shouting for him to get down. Maggie leapt in front of Trevor, arms outstretched, shielding him from the perceived threat. He set his gun down slowly, turned to the wall, and held up his hands behind his head. Rough hands pulled her aside, holding her firmly, and she cried out. Trevor’s arms were wrenched behind his back, handcuffs snapped into place. A burly officer kicked his legs apart and patted him down. “I’m a cop. My badge is in my inside pocket,” Trevor told the officer. His ID was pulled from his pocket and tossed to another nearby officer who made a call on his radio. Minutes later, when his identity was confirmed, they released Trevor. Maggie rushed to his side. “Detective Sinclair, I’m Officer Flagg, 5th Precinct,” the man said. “What happened here?” “Burglary in progress. I confronted him, and he pulled a knife on me. Self defense.” “I’ll need to keep your gun for ballistics. I expect a full report,” Officer Flagg stated. Trevor nodded, and the officer walked off, directing another to tape off the crime scene. EMTs arrived and covered the man on the floor. “I want to go inside,” Maggie whispered. Trevor passed the request by the officer in charge then wrapped his arms around her, leading her back into the apartment. His body sheltered her from the cloaked corpse at their feet. Her gaze darted around the violated space, and her shoulders drew inward. She turned, crying into his shoulder. The security of his embrace offered a welcome reprieve against her feeling of vulnerability. How he’d gotten here, she didn’t know. He’d saved her. She hated showing weakness, but in Trevor’s arms, she knew it would be okay. He was the only person in the world who really knew her. A spark of undeniable trust ignited inside her. Pulling back, she looked into his eyes. Suddenly, she had to know. “Why did you leave, Trevor? Tell me the truth.” “Why do you think I walked away? From you, from us?” He waited for her answer, his gaze turning earnest. “Because you didn’t want to be tied down. Your plans for the future didn’t include a thief’s daughter. You used me to get to my father. You didn’t love me.” She recited the words in a voice devoid of emotion, as if rehearsed. “Like hell, Maggie,” he growled. His eyes narrowed, as though at some invisible antagonist. “Your father threatened me, blackmailed me into leaving you. He told me if I didn’t

back off, he would destroy my career, put you in prison. That bastard had pictures of the last heist we pulled together. He was going to give them to the police. He was willing to sacrifice you to get to me. That’s the kind of man he really is.” He cupped her face gently, his gaze softening. “I loved you more than anything, and the thought of you locked away would have killed me. I couldn’t let it happen, so I made a deal with the devil.” His lips brushed across hers, soft and full of regret. “I’m so sorry I hurt you, Maggie mine. It’s something I’ve had to live with every day. I wanted to find you, to explain, but I couldn’t put you in that kind of danger.” Maggie stood in silence, stunned. Too many conflicting emotions raced through her, and her world crashed around her. Pain, betrayal, questions, answers. Trevor had given her the last piece of the puzzle she needed to put the past behind her. Trevor had really loved her. He hadn’t left for himself; he’d left to protect her. He’d made the ultimate sacrifice to keep her safe. That knowledge brought a sharp stab of painful realization. They may have had a chance now except he was involved with someone else. Putting another woman through the pain of abandonment was something she couldn’t do, no matter how much she loved him. Hopelessness settled inside her, and all the strength left her. Once again, she’d lost Trevor. Her father would pay for what he’d done. The betrayal, by her own flesh and blood, cut her to the core. Any last bit of loyalty she felt towards him died … instantly. She’d deliver the ruby to save his life. Then she’d make sure he spent the rest of it behind bars. **** When they walked into Trevor’s apartment, guilt burned Maggie’s cheeks. Amanda stood waiting for them. Maggie had broken the woman’s trust, stolen from her, and lied. Her gaze fell to the floor. She couldn’t even look at her. To her shocked amazement, Amanda laughed. “Trevor, you were right. She did everything just like you said she would.” Maggie’s glance shot between the two of them. They knew she was going to escape? “You forget we were taught together, Maggie. I knew every trick you would use. I planted the money in Amanda’s purse and was only two steps behind you the entire time.” Her gasp of surprised outrage made Amanda laugh again. “I told you I wasn’t letting you out of my sight.” When she realized she hadn’t been alone, profound relief washed over her. Trevor had been there, watching over her, keeping her safe. That piece of information vanquished any last doubts she had about him. Her gaze softened when she met his eyes. God, she loved this man! “I’ll just be going now,” Amanda said. Trevor smiled, thanking her before turning back to Maggie. Neither noticed when Amanda slipped out the door. Maggie’s breath caught in her throat at the darkening of Trevor’s eyes. His look of wicked promise called out to the reckless woman deep inside.

“Trevor…” she whispered. Then he was there, crushing her body to his even as his mouth came swiftly down over hers, claiming her in a hungry kiss, intoxicating her senses. “We can’t,” she protested. Pulling away from his heady kiss, she held him at bay with one hand. Her heart broke with each word spoken. “I’m sorry, Trevor, I can’t put another woman through the pain of losing you. No matter how much I want…” “Maggie, what are you talking about?” Genuine confusion filled his voice. “Amanda told me there was someone in your life, someone who held your heart, making you blind to any other woman she tried to interest you in.” Her voice hitched at the last part. He threw back his head and laughed. “She’s right. She tried to set me up with all her friends before giving up in frustration. There’s only one woman in my heart.” His face turned serious again. With his confession, Maggie barely held back the urge to burst into tears. His hand cupped her chin, lifting it until she looked at him. “Only one woman has ever meant that much to me. Like a fool, I let her slip through my fingers once. But now we have a second chance, and I’ll be damned if anything stands in my way this time. I love you, Maggie.” His lips pressed to hers in the sweetest kiss that spoke volumes about his sincerity. Stunned beyond words, what he said finally sank in. It was her! She was the woman Amanda had talked about. Elation surged through her body. She wanted to shout from the rooftop. This wonderful man wanted her, in fact, had never stopped. Pure womanly delight radiated from her. She took his hand, knowing her eyes shone with their own wicked promises, and led him to the bedroom. If nothing else, she was determined to show him how much she loved him, all night if she had to. Maggie sat Trevor down on the edge of the bed, stepping back out of arm’s reach. While he watched, she sent him a naughty grin, and her fingers slowly undid the row of small buttons on her shirt. Turning her back, she threw the shirt to the floor, reaching behind to unfasten her bra. Throwing him a sexy look over her shoulder, she let the filmy piece of lace dangle from her fingertips before letting it fall to the floor. She’d never shown him this side of her before, this impish, sexy goddess who reveled in her role as a tease. At the desire in his eyes, her heart swelled, along with a part of his anatomy. The evening held the promise of a new beginning. She unzipped her skirt, sliding it down over her hips with a seductive back and forth sway, shimmying it down her legs. When her fingers slid under the thin band of fabric, Trevor groaned out loud, and her thong followed the same path as her skirt. The slow unveiling of her backside caused an even louder moan that rumbled up from his gut. She turned back towards him in all her glory, nude except for her knee-high black boots. Confidence radiated with each stride, and she stepped between his legs, wrapping her arms around his neck. He laced his fingers through her hair and pulled down her head, stopping her descent a fraction before his lips. “I am so going to show you how much I want you, until you beg me to stop.” A thrill shot down her spine. She couldn’t wait. His mouth covered hers, and she became lost in sensation. His tongue hot and

demanding, teeth nipping at the pouty flesh of her bottom lip until she whimpered. “Mmm, stop it. I’m supposed to be showing you how much I appreciate the whiteknight routine earlier.” She murmured her intentions against his lips. “Oh, really? Then thank away, m’lady.” He lay back on the bed under her watchful gaze. She ran her hands up his legs, letting her thumbs brush against the hard bulge in his jeans. He inhaled sharply, his hips rising to push closer. Her hands slid higher along his stomach, over his chest, until she sat straddling his waist. The contrast of her nakedness against his fully clothed body was incredibly arousing. She rocked her hips slowly, letting the moist heat from between her legs cradle his imprisoned cock. Shivers hardened her nipples. “Shit,” he groaned. Grabbing her waist, he held her still while he ground his hips to meet hers, the friction unbearable for both. She shook her head, pulling his hands away, raising them over his head, and lying across his chest. Her hair fell into a veil around his face, and she nibbled along his lips, running her tongue under his jaw, down his neck. “Don’t move,” she said. A secret smile spread over her face at his low growl. Trailing her fingers along his outstretched arms, she sat back up to tug the shirt loose from his pants. Her hands slid under the fabric, and she let her fingers splay to explore the hard planes of his stomach. His muscles jumped beneath her touch. His eyes darkened almost to black. Her nails grazed his nipples, causing his back to arch off the bed, his breath to exhale in a hissing rush. She pulled the shirt higher. Wordlessly, he lifted his upper body, allowing her to slide it off completely. Her lips met his hot skin, and she trailed kisses along his shoulder, across his chest, sliding off his lap to allow her better access to the button of his jeans. His stomach tensed when her fingers slid under the waistband, popping open the button and opening the zipper in a quick movement. Grasping the band of his boxers, she nudged his legs, and he lifted on cue. She pulled down both articles of clothing, stopping only to tug off his boots, and soon, he was completely nude as well. Her hungry gaze devoured the stiff flesh that waited between his legs. She ran her hands up his thighs, closer, until her hand wrapped around him, causing his body to jolt in response. Leaning over, she took the tip of it into her mouth, rolling her tongue slowly around the head. He writhed on the bed, the covers gripped in his clenched fists. She chuckled low in her throat and slid her mouth down over the entire length of him, inch by torturous inch. His breathing stopped for a full minute. When she pulled back up slowly, his held breath escaped in a gasp. Her tongue caressed every ridge of his cock with each stroke, circling, licking, until he held her head still, pumping in and out of her hot mouth with quick thrusts. She could tell he was getting close. His quickened breath, the way his hips thrust faster, the tensing in his leg muscles. “What do you want?” she asked, withdrawing her mouth. Turning the tables and using his own words against him became a heady aphrodisiac. “Tell me.” Her hand wrapped around his rigid cock, pumping up and down. “Oh God, you’re making me crazy, Maggie. I want to taste you. To feel your body

under me. Right now.” He surged up off the bed and grabbed her around the waist, flipping her onto her back before she even registered what happened. Now he had turned the tables, and her hands were dragged over her head, held firmly in one of his. His free hand trailed down across her cheek, her neck, lazily across her shoulder, and suspended above her taut nipple. He flicked it lightly, teasing until she begged for more. Maggie cried out when he rolled the hard bud between his finger and thumb, the slow, firm pressure building layer upon layer of pleasure. Yes, she groaned. He knew her body so well, knew what would take her to the edge quickest. Her hips rolled with need. Moisture gathered on her inner thighs, the swollen flesh there aching for his touch. His mouth followed the trail of goose bumps to her nipple, but he stopped before reaching it. His breath tormented the peak. She couldn’t stand it. She arched her back, offering herself to him. A devious grin spread over his face. He wound her fingers around the slats in the headboard. “Don’t let go, or I’ll stop.” Maggie swore softly. Anticipation for whatever he planned made her body tremble with need. His hot mouth returned to her nipple, the alternating bite of his teeth and softness of his tongue torturing her until she pleaded for more. By the time he was done ravishing the other hard peak, rational thought had escaped her. Her hips bucked, seeking any kind of contact to soothe the ache. Unbearable tension trapped her in its merciless grasp. His tongue traced a path down her ribs, dipping into her navel, making her to squirm at the tantalizing contact. Her stomach quivered as he left the hollow behind and slid lower over the soft, fleshy bump, settling agonizingly close to the spot she most craved friction. His tongue danced all around it, careful not to touch directly. He played a teasing game of hide-and-seek, and her hips frantically tried to force contact. “Please,” she begged. The need to feel his mouth on her sex consumed her. Instead of giving in, Trevor slid two fingers into her moist pussy, burying them deep while continuing his assault. She lifted her hips, pushing herself against his hand in an anxious rhythm, impaling herself on his fingers again and again. When a third joined the first two, she nearly exploded. He played her body perfectly, keeping her on the very edge yet denying her the ultimate release she craved. She was feverish, incoherent words falling from her lips, begging him to stop tormenting her. He laved her clit once, and her body tensed for more. Her legs shook, and she tried to spread them wider, knees pressing against her breasts. As his fingers pumped, the tension built up inside her, an excruciating ecstasy she could almost taste. Maggie sobbed, her body wound tighter than it had ever been before. Her climax built slowly with each stroke. She strained towards it, every breath lodging deeper in her throat. She teetered on the edge, the pounding in her ears the only sound, every fiber of her being focused on that one spot aching more sweetly with each touch. When it became too much, a long, low moan escaped her. How high could she climb before it finally burst? How much more could her body take before it exploded into a million pieces?

She thought she couldn’t take it anymore. He laid his mouth on the slick, swollen bud and suckled. Maggie’s world imploded. Brilliant light burst over her, and she screamed in intense, raw release. Her fingers gripped the bed slats, holding on for dear life, while her body convulsed uncontrollably, her blinding climax growing rather than fading away. She tightened around the fingers still buried deep inside, and his tongue danced over the sensitized flesh. Aftershocks ravaged her, and at last, she collapsed from sheer exhaustion. Animal-like whimpers reached her ears, and she realized they came from her. Gasping for breath, she tried to still the spinning room, to control the painful stings of pleasure still sizzling through her. “My God,” Trevor whispered. His fingers slid from her warm center, and he placed a soft kiss against her sex. Hooking her legs in his arms, he opened her wide, driving into her with one long thrust. “Aaaahhh…” he growled through gritted teeth. “You feel too good. So wet.” He withdrew and stood at the edge of the bed, pulling her to him, impaling her fully once more. The bed was the perfect height. He was able to drive his hips forward, pounding into her while holding her legs completely open. She suspected she presented quite a sight to inundate his senses. He proved her right when he thrust faster, his gaze on her breasts, which bounced with each stroke. Another orgasm built inside her, swifter this time. The harder and faster he drove into her, the closer she got. He surged, and she climaxed around him, the flood of slick, tightening sex all he needed to take him over the edge with her. His shout of release mixed with hers, echoing in the room. He collapsed next to her, pulling her into his arms and tenderly brushing a stray lock of hair off her damp forehead. He pressed soft kisses to the spot. Sleep quickly claimed them both in the aftermath of exertion. Maggie awoke later that evening in the midst of another powerful climax, and she arched back against Trevor, the hardness of his cock pressing into her lower back. His fingers still moved against her slick clit. She moaned for him to take her. “God, Maggie, I can’t get enough of you,” he whispered. He lifted her leg to slide into her from behind with one deep thrust. She reached behind to grab his hair, dragging his mouth to her neck. The roughness of his teeth against the sensitive flesh made her cry out. Her hips pumped back against him faster. His fingers delved between her legs to rub her swollen clit again, causing another orgasm to overtake her so suddenly she bit into his arm and screamed. He grabbed her hips, driving into her with a furious need for his own release. When the explosion hit, he shouted, and his hips bucked against her soft ass. His hand kneaded her breast, and he squeezed the hard nipple. He groaned when she tightened around him. “What do you say we forget everyone else and stay here forever?” he asked in mock seriousness. His lips moved softly against her shoulder. “Sounds good to me.” She smiled sleepily. The feel of his body wrapped around hers filled her with a warm sense of contentment and safety. If only it was that easy.

Chapter Four “They know you’re here,” Trevor said that afternoon. The envelope appeared outside his door, and when they opened it, a new set of instructions awaited. His jaw hardened. It was ludicrous. Maggie’s eyes widened the more she read. Her gaze flew to Trevor. “Two are better than one. The cop is going to help with this one. In the Mayor’s safe is a packet of papers. Get them, and you’ll save your father’s life. Fail, and he dies. “No games, and no one gets hurt. Look closer for your motivation, and don’t try to double-cross us. You have four days to get it done.” “What are we going to do?” she whispered. Anguish filled her voice. The kidnappers’ latest demand threatened Trevor’s career, forcing him into a moral battle. “I’m so sorry, Trevor,” she said. “I wish I could go back and change things so you were never dragged into this.” “I need to think.” He jumped up to pace the room and muttered under his breath, “What the hell do they gain from this, aside from ruining my career? It makes no sense. I wasn’t involved when they first contacted you, so why now?” She shook her head, not understanding either. All she was supposed to do was steal the ruby and trade it for her father. Now the kidnappers wanted them to pull another job. Together? “I will not be forced into breaking the law,” he growled. “I took an oath to uphold it, and I’ll be damned if some lowlife makes me break my word.” As she picked through the remaining contents of the envelope, her hand flew to cover her mouth, but she was unable to stop her gasp. “Trevor,” she whispered. Dread sank to the pit of her stomach like a piece of lead. He looked at her face and to where her shaking finger pointed. There, spread out on the table, was all the incentive he would need to comply. Their motivation. Photos from the night she’d tried to steal the ruby. Images of them making love on the desk, him putting her in his car, incriminating evidence that would contradict the story he’d radioed to his superiors that night. Evidence that could ruin him. Rage exploded on his face. “What the fuck is going on here?” Helplessly, she watched him, having no answers. Sitting across the table from her, his hand raked though his hair. Anger and misery reflected from his eyes. “So we have to break into the mayor’s office, crack the safe, and steal documents? Who the hell has your father?” Maggie took exception to his irritated tone. “How should I know?” she shot back. She understood his frustration, but taking it out on her was uncalled for. He sighed, the long, drawn-out sound full of resignation. “I’m damned if I do, damned if I don’t. What the hell are we going to do?” **** A few hours later, the theme to Dragnet, Trevor’s macho ring-tone, woke Maggie out of a light sleep. She had lain down to nap, trying to sleep away the headache that overwhelmed her after their talk. She felt horrible, like somehow it was her fault he was

being dragged back into this life, forced to become a thief again. His low voice rumbled through the open door, and she couldn’t resist the urge to eavesdrop. Slipping out of bed, she crept to the door to listen in on the conversation. “Things are not going as planned. No, I haven’t been able to find out who was behind the setup yet.” A pause. “Hold on a sec.” He started towards the bedroom. Maggie quickly scrambled back into bed, closing her eyes just as he looked in. Why did he check to see if she was asleep? More importantly, why did she feel the need to pretend to be asleep? The door closed. His muted voice resumed, and she snuck back out of bed, pulled the door open an inch. “She doesn’t suspect anything, Chief. I think we’re getting closer to her father. We got another note, and it’s only a matter of time before she leads me to him. Yes, the plan is still in place. Don’t worry, I’ll nail that bastard.” An anguished lament lodged in her throat, cutting off the air she would have needed to scream, turning her body red-hot with the heat of betrayal. Oh God, no. She sank to the floor in a puddle of blanket. What a fool she’d been. He was using her to get to her father. All this time, and it was a ruse, his apology, his love, had been only a ploy. She had fallen for it hook, line, and sinker. Crawling blindly back to the bed, she managed to pull herself up to sit on the edge. Her body sank into dull numbness before a strange tingling rushed through her limbs. Her mind went completely void of any and all emotion. When he walked back in a few moments later, she couldn’t even look at him. He leaned down to place a long kiss on her lips. “You’re awake,” he murmured. His hand slid over her shoulder in a gentle caress, and his lips followed the path of his fingers. Maggie bit back the sob that threatened to explode from her throat. The hardest thing she had ever done in her life was to sit still under his touch. Her muscles were a tense mass, waiting to blast into the fury of a woman betrayed. She wanted to rail at him, to pound her fists into his chest until he admitted he’d lied to her. His duplicity was killing her. To escape his watchful eyes, she desperately needed him to believe nothing had changed. He had to think they were still on the same side. She forced herself to relax, her heart screaming out in pain. His touch, his lips, everything she craved from him, everything she thought she’d found again had been ripped from her. She couldn’t take it. She had to get away … now. “I need to grab a shower,” she said. Thanks to a superhuman effort, her voice stayed level. “Need any company?” he asking, his tone teasing. Another soft kiss landed on her shoulder. “That’s okay. I just want to relax for a bit.” She hoped the forced smile was convincing. “Okay, I’ll get us something to eat. Then we can figure out our next step.” She wished he didn’t sound so fucking sincere when he lied. She could almost believe what he said. Her mind replayed the overheard conversation, and she quickly turned away, before he noticed the tears forming. It was almost time to say goodbye again. ****

“You can go, you know. I’m not going anywhere.” They sat at the table, finishing their gourmet lunch of grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup. Maggie’s damp hair hung around her face in soft curls, and she brushed it aside, thankful for the distraction. If she had to look at him, the emotions bubbling below the surface would burst out; then she would never get away from him. “I told you I wasn’t letting you out of my sight.” “I know, but that was before.” The hot blush rising in her cheeks provoked a smile from him. “I can get some work done, and so can you.” She had gathered a few things at her apartment before the cops took over, Trevor’s authority circumventing the normal procedure of leaving everything untouched. Uncertainty danced over his face, just as she’d hoped. “You don’t trust me?” she asked, infusing her words with just the right amount of hurt. Cue the dramatic lead. “You win,” he finally said. “I can talk with the chief, see if he has any ideas. I won’t be long though, promise.” He stood, leaning over to give her a soft kiss on the forehead. “Keep those fires burning for me.” “I will,” she whispered. While he got ready to leave, she busied her hands, setting up a makeshift office on the table. A good performance depended on good props. Her strategy worked like a charm, and he left without voicing further concern. Maggie sat at the table after the door closed, letting the tears flow freely. Her shoulders shook with an effort to control the force of her sobs. Twice he had broken her heart. She blamed only herself for this second time. It was her fault she let him back in too easily. His explanation had given her something to believe in, and the past had disappeared, along with her anger and hurt. She had offered him her body and heart on a platter and played right into his lap. He was probably gloating with his colleagues about how effortlessly the stupid, lovesick girl had fallen into his trap. Taking a deep breath, she forced herself to stop thinking about it, about him. It did no good now. The time had come to put her plan into action. She collected her things robotically then sat on the sofa, waiting. They had trained together, and despite his assurance, she knew what his next move would be. As if on cue, the phone rang. “Hello.” “Hi, babe,” he said. She made herself laugh. “Checking up on me?” “No.” He chuckled over the line. “Yes.” “Well, I’m right here, working hard, and you interrupted me. How am I supposed to get anything done if you call all the time?” “Okay, okay. I just wanted to hear your voice. I’ll let you work uninterrupted, and I’ll see you soon. I’ll most definitely interrupt you then.” The husky promise sent shivers down her spine. Damn him. “Goodbye, Trevor,” she whispered. At the finality of her words, a sob lodged in her throat. “Bye, sweetheart.” With a heavy heart, she hung up the phone and pulled her bag onto her shoulder. With one last look around his apartment, she left him and his betrayal behind.

Chapter Five A mere twenty-four hours later, Maggie sat on a bench across from the courthouse. She’d made the decision to do as the kidnappers instructed and steal the documents from the mayor’s safe. Despite the implicit instructions to involve Trevor, she would get what they wanted then trade it for her father. Afterwards, she would disappear for good. Somehow she would convince the kidnappers to leave Trevor out of it. Once they had what they wanted, she could make them see reason. She was sure of it. Tonight would be the night. Pulling her hat lower, she adjusted the dark sunglasses covering her eyes. Maggie stood and walked away from the courthouse. She had six hours to prepare. She would need all the expertise from her years of training to pull this off. She prayed desperately that her skills hadn’t deserted her. If she got caught… No, she couldn’t, simple as that. As she made her way down a side street, she made mental notes of landmarks, alleys, and escape routes. Just in case. The dingy motel where she’d rented a room came into view, and she bit back her revulsion. It was the kind of place people rented by the hour to do things they weren’t supposed to be doing. The only thing it had going for it was its proximity to the courthouse. It provided the perfect location for her headquarters. Once inside her room, she studied the maps laid out in front of her. The years of absence from her life of crime hadn’t diminished her relationship with Joe, her father’s old contact. He had procured the needed documents, seemingly with ease and speed. Everything she needed for tonight: courthouse blueprints, positions of guard stations, and most importantly, the location of the mayor’s safe. She didn’t stop to contemplate how this strange man had gotten his information; all she knew was that he was reliable. Her father had trusted him, and so did she. With one fingertip, she traced the path inside the building, memorizing the locations of alarms, where the security guards checked, and when they made their rounds. According to her father, her photographic memory was her most valuable asset. In her real life, it made her a successful buyer for her clients. As she went over the details, adrenaline started to pump through her body, heightening her senses for the task ahead. She caressed the supple leather of her new pants, her one splurge for tonight’s job. A strange idiosyncrasy, this need to wrap herself in this constricting fabric when she pulled a heist, but one she never did without. Like an athlete with a talisman, she was sure it was part of her success and unwilling to take the chance if she were wrong. Her tools were spread out before her, and she made sure each one was accounted for, in its correct spot. Precision meant the difference between failure and success. Her mind drifted back to the last time she’d used them, trying to steal the ruby, and finding Trevor again. Bitterness rose up like bile in her throat. Determination filled her like a five-course dinner. This was the last time she would ever pull a job. It didn’t matter who threatened her with what, she had reached the end of her rope. She was tired of being dictated to. She wanted her life back, her normal life, where everything stayed safe without the emotional chaos of Trevor or her father.

Her glance strayed to the clock. It was time. She prepared for the evening in a ritualistic fashion, each familiar movement of a dance she had memorized as a child. Her mind drifted to emptiness, her breathing slowed. Focus became her lifeblood. She practiced each step and turn of the complex job, vividly picturing each move behind closed eyelids. The courthouse materialized in her mind, and she walked the path she would take, anticipating obstacles, avoiding detection. When she finished the visualization, confidence radiated from her body. It was alive now, humming, ready for action. Being a thief was in her blood, and she knew it. She would not fail tonight. This would be the beginning of the end for her. After tonight, she would be free. **** Maggie looked around the mayor’s office. The break-in had gone like clockwork, everything exactly as planned. The safe was the final obstacle between her and freedom. Careful not to disturb anything else, she lifted the heavy painting off the wall. Why people always hid safes behind paintings was beyond her. It was so obvious. She took in the safe before her and gnawed at her lip, her brows dipping sharply. Shit. This part of the job was going to take every bit of her expertise, if not more. This modern contraption of drab gray metal, recessed into the wall, taunted her with its sophisticated, blinking green keypad. This technology was simply beyond her skill. She carefully pulled out the piece of paper that came with the instructions, unsure if she’d missed this bit of information in her first and subsequent perusals. There were numbers scribbled in the margins, three sets of numbers to be exact. Should she try them all? Would she set off an alarm if she entered the wrong code once or maybe twice? Could she escape in time if she had to? Inhaling a deep lung full of air, she tried to calm her heartbeat. She was this close; she had to try. It couldn’t be any harder than the security system in her apartment, right? As she punched in the first number of the chosen code, her fingers shook. Bleep. Then the second. Bleep. The moment of truth, the last digit. Bleep. Nothing. After a few seconds, she realized the code must be wrong. The next one maybe? With no choice but to continue, she pressed the CLEAR button and tried again. The second code produced the exact same blinks and bleeps. Process of elimination meant the last one should be the winner. Once more the CLEAR button beeped. Six. Bleep. Nine. Bleep. Four. Bleep. Suddenly, the panel lights started blinking, causing her pulse to soar. She did it! A deafening siren broke the silence, and Maggie bit back a startled scream. Shit! She looked around madly. She had to get out. Darting from the office, she paused, turning towards the end of the hallway, running away from heavy footsteps pounding behind her. The guards were arriving faster than she’d anticipated. Slamming through the door marked “stairwell,” she made a serious mistake and turned left. Disoriented, she had no other choice but to continue up. Completely turned around now, her internal map useless, she gulped in air. Don’t panic. Focus. You’re smart enough to figure it out. Biting back a cry, she burst through the last door, racing down the dark hallway,

yanking on each door. Hysterical panic rose up when the last one remained locked against her. Footsteps clattered up the stairs, getting closer by the second. Glancing wildly around the hallway, she searched for an avenue of escape. The only way out was the direction she’d come, the same direction of the guards bearing down on her. If she could hide and get behind them, maybe she could get back into the stairwell. It had to work. A small alcove sat next to the stairwell door, and she ran for it with all her might, slipping into it as the door opened. Her body pressed back against the hard wall, her heart hammering against her chest. A handgun poked through the doorway, followed by the dark shape of a man. Her breath lodged in her throat, and she waited, poised for flight. A few more minutes, then she could slip back down the stairs. The guard stopped, cocking his head to one side as if listening. She froze, willing her pulse to cease until he stepped forward again. In a flurry of movement, the man swung, pinning her against the wall, his hand covering her mouth. How had he known she was there? She struggled against the large body, frantic and desperate to escape, her panic giving her superhuman strength, yet she still couldn’t budge him. She couldn’t go to jail for this! His heavyset body pressed her cruelly against the wall. Rancid, coffee-stained breath washed over her face. She swallowed against the urge to vomit. “You’re a pretty little thing. Maybe we’ll have a little fun before I let the cops have you.” His fingers pinched her leather-clad breast, and she froze at his violation. This couldn’t be happening to her. She screamed when his hand cupped between her legs, roughly squeezing the tender flesh. Her world evaporated into a red haze, and fury surged through her like a raging hurricane, driving away her frozen indecision. She drove her knee into his groin with all her strength, the hard bone sinking into his soft tissue with perfect accuracy. The man yelped, his grasp loosening, and he doubled over in agony. “Let her go, you bastard,” a low voice growled behind them. The man stumbled around in surprise, releasing her as he turned. His head suddenly snapped back from the impact of Trevor’s fist. Her attacker crumpled to the floor. His face twisted in rage, Trevor swung back, kicking the unconscious guard in the stomach. He met Maggie’s surprised gaze and stilled. “Are you okay?” he whispered. His expression turned relieved and stern at the same time. She could only nod. Heavy footsteps broke through the tense silence, pounding in the stairwell, getting closer by the second. The other guards were almost upon them; then she would have no chance of escape. The door started to open, and Maggie tensed for the inevitable. Trevor planted his foot to prevent the door from opening completely. “It’s clear, boys. Try the first-floor rear exit.” “Will do, Detective.” Shhhhh, he motioned with his finger to his lips before pulling her against his body. As the guards retreated, they listened in silence. “It’s okay now, but I have to get you out of here. You need to follow me.” His hushed voice sounded terse, and she wanted to balk at the tone. Tell him she didn’t need his help, to go straight to hell, but the truth was she did need his help. Once again, he’d appeared out of nowhere to rescue her at the last minute.

They started down the stairs, Trevor taking the lead, pausing every few steps to listen. When they reached the bottom floor, Trevor pushed through the door first and froze, gesturing for her to remain where she was. “No sign of anyone, Detective,” a voice said. “Maybe we should go back up and check again?” Her heart raced. If they opened the door, they would see her. “Already checked up there. The doors are locked, and no one could get anywhere except back down. Did anyone check the mayor’s office? The perp may have stayed there, thinking no one would look.” “We’ll check now.” The sound of their fading footsteps was music to Maggie’s ears. “I’m going to check out back,” Trevor yelled to the retreating men. Trevor motioned to her. She quickly stepped to his side. He pulled her towards the back exit. “This way. Now.” As he dragged her out the back door, his grip felt like a vise. She’d escaped one danger tonight, but something told her she was in much bigger trouble now. **** “What the hell did you think you were doing!” he yelled, exploding. They were safely away from the courthouse when Trevor released her arms, only to grab her shoulders. Her teeth rattled as he shook her then pulled her into his tight embrace. “Christ, Maggie, you could have been caught. Or killed by one of those rent-a-cops the mayor hires.” “I was doing just fine, thank you!” she lied. His mouth crushed down over hers, the kiss both punishing and relieved. As he plundered her lips, his fear came through, providing the evidence that he cared enough to be frightened for her. She fought back the sob that rose up and pushed against his chest with all her strength. “Stop it!” she shouted. “Stop pretending you care!” She had to stop him now, before she was lost. Anger provided the perfect shield. “I know what you’re doing, damn it, so just drop the act.” “What the hell are you talking about?” he yelled back. Frustration etched harsh lines across his face. “I just saved your ass … again, and you’re pissed off at me?” “Oh yes, you just happened to be here, right? Coincidence, huh?” “I’ve been looking everywhere since you disappeared on me, which I’d also like an explanation for. I knew you’d try to pull this off yourself, so I waited. Sometimes I wonder where your head is.” How dare he stand here and insult her intelligence, treat her like she was a child. He might have saved her hide twice, but that didn’t excuse his behavior. “Listen carefully, you arrogant son of a bitch. I’m here tonight to try and end this. I’m tired of being some sicko’s puppet. I want my life back. I want everything the way it was before all this started.” “Well, it’s not going to happen, Maggie. We have to see this thing through, and the only way we can do that is together. They made that clear.” “Like hell. I am not spending one more second with you. I’m done. Goodbye.” She flicked her hand like a diva waving away her adoring fans and started to walk away. “Maggie.” His voice turned low with warning. “You’re coming home with me.”

“Go to hell, Trevor,” she called back over her shoulder. Her motel was only a few blocks away. She could make it if she just kept walking. His footsteps echoed behind her, but he wasn’t pursuing, only following. Fine. She would lock the door to her room, and he could sit outside it all night. It wouldn’t be the first time she’d snuck out a bathroom window. When her motel came into view, the tension in her shoulders relaxed its grip a little. Almost there. Unlocking the door, she turned, the impulse to rub it in too much for her to resist. “Sweet dreams,” she called out. Her victorious laugh cut off with the door closing in his face. The grating of the lock sliding into place soothed her high-strung nerves. She quickly gathered her few belongings and peeked out the curtain to make sure he was still there. He’d positioned a chair in front of her door, and he sat in it, arms folded across his chest. A sentry, ready for a long night of guard duty. She smiled. Like taking candy from a baby. Moments later, as she dangled feet first out of the window, strong hands grabbed around her waist, pulling her out. “Sooo predictable,” he said with a laugh. She struggled against him. “Let me go.” The words ground out between tightly clenched teeth. “I told you, you’re coming home with me.” Trevor carried her back to his car, the irony of the situation not lost on either of them, the ride back to his apartment, once again, accompanied by her irate silence. **** By the time they reached his apartment, Maggie shook with pent-up anger. How dare this man! He marched her inside, bolting the door behind them. Lifting her chin, she stalked past him and reached to unlock the door, refusing to spend one more second with him. His hands sank into her waist, and he lifted her struggling body off the ground. “Put me down,” she demanded. Despite her twisting and turning, his hold remained vise-like. “Listen to me,” he growled. “No. I don’t owe you anything, Trevor!” “We’re going to talk whether you like it or not.” “Like hell we will. Put. Me. Down.” He carried her to the bathroom, pushing her none too gently into the shower. When the icy blast hit her, she screeched and scrambled to get out. “Oh no, you don’t. Not until we talk.” His hands bunched in the fabric of her top, holding her firmly in place under the chilling onslaught. “Trevor! It’s freezing! Let me out!” His raised eyebrows were the only response. “Ok. You win,” she said through chattering teeth. “We’ll talk.” He turned off the water and helped her out, wrapping a large, fluffy towel around her. “Why?” she asked. Misery washed over her like the icy water had moments ago. “Why do you even care what happens to me?”

The expression on his face went from confusion to genuine disbelief. “I thought we straightened all that out.” “So did I.” She lifted a hand to push the wet tendrils of hair out of her eyes. “What’s going on, Maggie?” He tipped up her face. His eyes were full of sincere concern. “You lied to me!” “Never. I’ve never lied to you.” “You said you loved me.” “Maggie, I do love you. More than anything.” “See, you’re still lying! I heard you, Trevor. On the phone. I heard you tell your boss that it was all an act. That I was falling for it, and you were getting closer to catching my father. Damn you, you made me trust you again.” Grief welled up inside her, pouring out, and she pounded her fists into his chest. “Oh God,” he groaned. His arms reached out, pulling her close. “I’m so sorry you heard that. I thought you were sleeping.” Pain finally burst free from the dam she’d hastily constructed, and her body shook with the force of her sobs. “I trusted you.” “You’re right.” She stiffened in his arms. His unexpected admission ripped out her heart in one cruel jerk. She pushed away from him. “I lied, yes, but not to you, Maggie, to my boss. He found out you were at the house that night and demanded to know why I didn’t bring you in. I convinced him I was using you to find out where your father was. That’s what you heard.” His fingers sliced absently through his hair, and he sighed. “When I left you here, I went to him, and he set up everything with the mayor. We’re supposed to break in tomorrow night. I have all the codes we need. The catch is we’re supposed to get caught. We need to draw out the kidnappers and end this.” She looked at him, desperate to believe, but her doubt waged against his logical … and convenient explanation. “Maggie, I love you. I swore I would protect you, and you have to trust me on that. I need you too much to let you just walk away without fighting like hell for us.” He cupped her face between his hands. “I was young and stupid once and made some bad choices, but this time nothing is going to keep you from me. Understand?” A slight nod tipped her head forward. She wanted to trust him. God, her heart screamed for her to do just that. But a small niggling voice held her back. His hatred of her father ran deep, and he’d sworn revenge. Would he betray her to get it? Was he was lying to her now? A sudden desire for comfort after her terrifying ordeal crept into her mind, and she made her choice based solely on that. She needed his warm lips on hers, his hard body arousing her, inundating her senses and replacing the memory of ugly hands fondling her. She needed to feel alive. Dropping the towel, she stepped closer. “Thank you for saving me, again,” she said. She slid her arms around his neck, pulling his head down. He groaned and dug his hands into her ass, holding her tight against his hard body. “Christ,” he said. “If this is the way you thank me, I’ll personally put you in danger just so I can save you every day for the rest of my life.”

Chapter Six “So how is this supposed to go down again?” Maggie asked. They sat together in his car across from the courthouse. Her nerves stretched thin, like they’d been pressed through a hand wringer. “We sneak in, open the safe, and steal the documents. Then on the way out, we get caught by the security guards. These guys were brought in for tonight on the mayor’s personal payroll.” “And then?” “I’m confident the kidnappers will be watching us, like they did before. When they see us being led away in handcuffs, they’ll have to change their plans.” “That doesn’t solve the problem, though. It doesn’t get my father back.” “No, but it buys me some time to get to the bottom of this without breaking my oath.” “Do you really think you can fix this? It already feels like we’re in too deep to ever get out.” She hated the feelings that loomed up when she voiced her concerns out loud, revealing the despair and hopelessness. “Everyone makes mistakes, Maggie. I will find out who’s behind this, and after I take care of them, this will be over.” She filled her lungs, relaxing as her breath eased out in a long sigh. If anyone could fix this, Trevor could. She had to trust that he could. “So do we just walk in the front door?” He laughed. “It has to look semi-believable. How did you get in last night?” “I found an unlocked window towards the back. A meeting room, I think.” “What are the chances it’s still unlocked?” They sat in silence for a moment. “Only one way to find out, I guess,” he said. “Let’s go.” They stepped out of the car, and before she could start across the street found herself pulled into his arms. His lips crushed down over hers in a passion-filled kiss that made her toes curl in her leather boots. “I love you, Maggie,” he said. His eyes danced with excitement. “Let’s go see a safe about some papers.” She laughed. “You’re loving this, aren’t you? Once a thief always a thief, you know. Better watch out.” “No, it’s not the stealing again. It’s you.” He grabbed her hand, and they raced across the street together like children on a playground. Luck was with them; the same window unlocked. They slipped inside with ease. Maggie led the way through the door and down the hall towards the mayor’s office. With the guards noticeably absent tonight, she didn’t hesitate before entering the city head’s domain. “It’s there, under the painting.” She pointed at the watercolor cityscape behind a massive oak desk. “Always behind the painting.” He smiled and shook his head. She almost giggled out loud. Those had been her exact thoughts the night before. While he lifted the painting off the wall and set it to the side, her gaze ran appreciatively

over his backside. She could never tire of that view. He stopped, turning with a meaningful look on his face. “Lock the door, Maggie.” Her mouth went dry at the honeyed command. “You can’t be serious. Here? Now?” He grinned like a horny teenager. “Yes. Here. Right now.” “In the mayor’s office?” she asked, her voice squeaking. The thrill of what he wanted to do, and where, had already begun to prepare her body at the speed of a locomotive. With a wicked grin, he nodded. His eyes turned intense. “Trevor Sinclair, what’s gotten into you?” He laughed softly, the sound purely masculine. “The question is, Maggie, what’s going to get into you?” He advanced on her like a panther stalking its prey. “Now lock the door.” Her legs propelled her across the room in record time. Every nerve ending in her body tingled. Oh God, what if they got caught? But wait, weren’t they supposed to get caught? But what if they got caught? The possibility intensified the electric pulses of excitement. No time to contemplate discovery. He was there, backing her up, pinning her body against the door. His lips pressed against hers, kissing her hard and recklessly, not waiting for permission before taking what he wanted. He yanked her black t-shirt over her head, tossing it aside, pausing only long enough to admire the lacy film covering her breasts before tugging it off, too. His hands covered her breasts, and he squeezed, pinching both nipples roughly between thumbs and fingers. Maggie groaned into his mouth, thrusting her chest closer. The excitement of the moment made her crave his coarse foreplay. She cried out in pained pleasure when his teeth nipped the sensitive flesh of her neck, desire making her knees weaker by the second. His mouth closed over a hard nipple, and his hands pulled apart the fastenings on her pants, pushing them down over her hips, along with her tiny thong. He ravished the aching peak so thoroughly she faltered before stepping free of the tight leather. His hand moved between her legs, his fingers caressing the moisture-covered lips of her sex. Held firmly in place against the door, she could only enjoy the erotic sensations his fingers and teeth sent racing through her body. His knee wedged between her legs, opening her to his touch, and his fingers delved even deeper into her silken depths, wrenching a sound of unbridled lust from her. She rocked against his invading touch; excitement like nothing she had ever experienced engulfed her in scalding flames. She needed him inside her, right here and now. “Trevor, please,” she begged. Her body thrashed. While he undid the buttons on his pants with his free hand, tugging them down over his hips, his mouth never stopped tormenting her responsive nipple, nor did his fingers still one fraction. His flesh sprang free, hard and hot against her stomach. He lifted her leg, resting it in the crook of his elbow, bracing his hand against the frosted-glass door. “Wrap your arms around my neck, Maggie.” In a dense fog of desire, she complied, and the fingers buried inside her slid out to

slip under her standing leg, lifting her completely off the ground. Spread open and aloft, she could do nothing but hold onto him. He drove into her, burying himself in one deep thrust. She cried out at the force of desire driving through her, held immobile in his strong arms while he pumped her onto his cock, forcing her to ride him hard. Knowing he controlled her body made her crazy with wanting, completely at his mercy to find her release. Her back slammed against the glass. He plunged into her recklessly, his breathing harsh bursts in her ear. A brilliant explosion overtook her so suddenly she almost jerked out of his arms, climaxing convulsively around him. “God, yes.” He groaned, driving into her one last time, letting her body milk his release from him. She was still in a daze when her legs were lowered to the floor and his satiated flesh slipped from her. They each fought to breathe, their panting breaths mixing. “Christ,” he panted against her lips. “You’re going to be the death of me.” “If you don’t kill me first,” she replied, awestruck at the extreme sensations still coursing through her body. “God, what a way to go, though.” He chuckled. His lips brushed across hers in a gentle kiss. They dressed quickly, and she soon stood on unsteady legs next to him, in front of the safe once again. “Back to work,” he said. Aside from the sheen of perspiration on his face, he didn’t look like he’d just fucked her against the door. She, on the other hand, had to lean on the mighty desk for support. He pulled a piece of paper from his pocket, punching in the correct numbers. The agreeable beeps sounded, and the safe popped open … just like that. The packet of papers they were after lay neatly on top. “Well, that does it,” he said. “Now we just have to get caught.” After closing the safe and re-hanging the painting, he turned towards the door. He stopped, choking back his laughter. “No one’s going to wonder what happened here,” he said. “What?” She turned, and her face erupted with heat. There, on the frosted glass door, was the perfect imprint of her ass and his two handprints, clear as day. “Let’s leave it as a souvenir,” he whispered in her ear. “I’m sure the mayor will appreciate it.” She burst out laughing, hitting his arm. “Detective Sinclair, you’re awful!” “That’s not what you were screaming a few minutes ago.” “You men!” She walked to the door, unlocked it, and yanked it open. Her mouth opened in a startled O, but no sound came out. Three of the biggest men she had ever seen in her life stood in the doorway. Not fat big, but hugely muscular. “Detective Sinclair?” one man asked. He looked at Trevor then Maggie. “You’re to come with Stan and me. The girl goes with Hugh.” Her gaze flew to Trevor. They were to be spilt up? He didn’t mention that earlier. She noted the question in his eyes as he looked at the three men. So it wasn’t part of the plan. “We’ll rendezvous in an hour,” the man said. “The chief thought this would make it

harder for anyone to follow.” Trevor tensed. “I don’t like it. No one told me about this earlier.” “Chief Jansen gave us the orders this afternoon. Call him, but you should know the courthouse is being watched. You need to make it look good, right?” In the past, when they’d worked together, instinct had saved Trevor and her more times than she could count. From the look Maggie now saw on his face, the warning bells were clanging louder than an old-fashioned jamboree. She agreed with his skepticism. Something definitely was not right. He moved in front of her. “I think I will call the chief, just to make sure there aren’t any more instructions he failed to relay.” When Trevor reached for his cell phone, a fist flew out of nowhere, connecting with his chin and snapping his head back. Maggie screamed and backed into the office. She made it a few steps before the oaf named Hugh locked his arms around her, lifting her effortlessly to carry her out of the room. She sobbed when she caught a glimpse of Trevor lying still on the floor, blood oozing from a cut on his lip. “Who are you?” Maggie screamed. “What did you do to him?” “Shut her up,” the nameless thug said to Hugh. A foul-smelling gag was thrust into her mouth and tied off. Suddenly free from the burly arms, Maggie took off running down the dark hallway. Someone shouted. Footsteps pounded behind her. As she ran, she jerked at the gag, trying to loosen the knot. Panic and exertion made it difficult to breathe through her nose. The exit door appeared ahead. Scarcely slowing her pace, she grabbed the knob and pushed, ready to break free into the night. When the door refused to budge, momentum propelled her into the hard wood frame, and pain exploded in her head with a brilliant display of lights. Moaning, she crumpled to the floor. Strong arms lifted her like a rag doll, and she barely registered being moved. “Be careful with her. The boss won’t be happy if she’s roughed up.” Boss? Oh God, Trevor. Her mind flashed to his image, unmoving on the hard tile floor, and she faded into the blackness.

Chapter Seven When the car jerked to a stop, Maggie came awake. Blinking slowly, her grogginess distorted the unfamiliar surroundings. The rough cloth in her mouth stuck to her tongue despite her best efforts to move it. Throbbing in her temple pulsed with every small movement and sent her vision spinning wildly. The urge to vomit reared up, and only the terror of choking to death gave her the strength to suppress it. Black tendrils of darkness wove along the dock; a reflection of the moon off water cast grotesque shadows that seemed to dance around her, mocking her fright. As she was pulled from the vehicle, dull clanging of metal against metal echoed in the humid night air. Her ragged breathing sounded loud in the surrounding quiet. A metal door on a nondescript building to the left of the vehicle creaked on rusty hinges when Hugh opened it. They stepped into inky darkness, and unease wrapped itself around her. Her kidnapper stopped inside the threshold, turning her to release the gag. Her sandpaper tongue darted out to touch equally dry lips, and she tried to wet the parched, cracked surface. A large hand pushed against the small of her back, propelling her forward. A low moan came from somewhere in front of her, and her steps faltered. Another nudge from Hugh sent her reluctantly forward. When they turned the last corner, the source of the pained sounds came into view. She barely quelled a scream. Trevor sat tied to a chair in the middle of the large, empty room, a single light shining above his head. Blood had dried along the side of his face, his eye nearly hidden beneath the puffed-up skin. His swollen lip stretched tightly around the cloth stuffed into his mouth. “Trevor,” she whispered. Tearing herself from her captor’s grip, she rushed to Trevor’s side. His good eye focused on her face, and he shook his head. Alarm flashed across his bruised face. He struggled to speak from behind his gag. She untied the gag, caressing his cheek. “Oh God, what happened?” When he cringed at her touch against the battered flesh of his face, tears slipped down her cheeks. “Maggie, your father.” His words came out as a hoarse croak, barely audible in the room. “My father?” Trevor groaned. “It’s him.” “I don’t understand what you’re trying to say.” Her glance slid to Hugh before returning to Trevor. She leaned close and whispered, “Are these the men who have my father?” His gaze focused behind her, his good eye narrowing. “No. It’s not what you think.” “There’s my girl?” A voice boomed from the darkness behind her, and Maggie shrieked, spinning around. “Dad? Thank goodness. Quick, help me untie Trevor. We need to get him to a hospital.” She knelt behind him, working the ropes that bound his hands tightly together. “Maggie,” Trevor said. “It was him.”

“What? Who was?” Her focus on the tight knot prevented his words from making any sense. “It was your father all along! He set you up,” he ground out. Anger dripped from his words. His fists clenched. She looked up in confusion, meeting her father’s gaze. “He’s right, Maggie, this was all my idea.” “I don’t understand. You set me up?” “Such a nasty term. I simply lured you back where you belong. Tell me you didn’t feel the thrill when you stole the ruby? The racing pulse. The excitement of taking something from someone without being caught.” “What are you talking about? I got a note from your kidnappers demanding the ruby or they would kill you.” His sharp laughter caught her by surprise. “You’re still such a gullible little girl. There were no kidnappers, Maggie, I sent everything. Kidnapped myself, actually! These men work for me, and despite your pathetic attempt to outwit me, I got what I wanted. You.” Her mouth hung open. The import of his words settled like a dead weight in her stomach. “Why?” “Because I knew you would never come back without incentive. I need you. I have a plan that involves the both of us, the biggest job ever. My chance at notoriety!” His eyes blazed with a strange fire, and her unease multiplied tenfold. “What about Trevor?” Edging closer to the man she loved, Maggie created a protective barrier between him and her obviously deranged father. “Ah yes, Detective Sinclair. Lucky for me, he still had a thing for you, because he made it so easy to reel him in, too.” He turned his sneer towards Trevor. “Did you really think you could trap me with that planted ruby? I knew my girl here would lure you back to our side, whether you wanted to come or not. Involving the mayor in your little theft was a bad move, though. Now that I know I can’t trust you to do as you’re told, you’re going to be my ace in the sleeve. You’re now Maggie’s incentive to help me pull off this heist.” “What are you talking about? I’m not helping you do anything. Trevor and I are going home now, together.” She turned back to the ties, her fingers shaking, and pulled on the knots that had finally loosened. This was her father, she told herself; he wouldn’t hurt her. A metallic click stopped her cold. She turned slowly. Her father held a gun pointed straight at Trevor’s chest. Her gasp of horror reverberated in the large room, and her knees went weak. What the hell was happening? This was her father. He was a burglar, not a killer. “You will help me, Maggie,” he said. Shivers raced along her spine at the coldness in his voice. “If you don’t, he’ll die. It’s a simple trade, his life for yours. But just a small part of it. I need you to help me steal the real Blood Diamond. After I have it, then you’ll be free to go back to your mundane life with your lowlife cop boyfriend.” Her head spun. “No one even knows where that gem is. How are you going to take it?” “I know where it is.” His voice took on a fanatic excitement, and a crazy light

flickered in his eyes. “I spent my life looking for it and finally know where it is. I followed the clues, and I solved the riddle. I’m a genius! I’ll go down in history for this!” The man in front of her ranted and gestured madly. He’d become even more of a stranger to her, turning maniacal in his quest to find the ruby. “How am I supposed to help?” “The man who has it is a reputed ladies’ man, although a bit eccentric in his desires, from what I hear. I need you to infiltrate his house, gain his confidence, so you can learn the layout and find out where the ruby is hidden. You’re a woman. Use your wiles to seduce the information out of him. Anything it takes.” She swallowed the urge to vomit. Her father wanted her to whore for the ruby’s location? Disgust for the man who’d fathered her rose up from her stomach, its bitter taste consuming her. “Over my dead body,” Trevor growled. His jaw clenched. The veins in his neck pulsing. Sam laughed. “Easily arranged.” He swung the gun back around, pointing it at Trevor, his arm steady, the barrel aimed straight at his heart. “No!” she yelled. “I’ll help you. Whatever you want. Please don’t hurt him.” “Maggie,” Trevor said. “Don’t believe him. He’ll never hold up his end of the agreement. He knows I’ll hunt him down like a dog as soon as I’m free.” His eyes narrowed on the old man. “And I’ll kill him with my bare hands for what he’s trying to make you do.” She swallowed against the lump of despair wedged in her throat. “I have to. I can’t lose you.” She turned back to her father. “Okay. I’ll do it.” “No!” Trevor fought against his bonds, rocking the chair violently and shouting until finally spent, panting from exertion. “Maggie, don’t do it.” His final anguished plea stabbed into her heart. She walked over to him, placing a soft kiss against his lips. “I’m sorry, Trevor, but I can’t take the chance. I love you too much to lose you now.” She turned and trailed behind her father. Trevor’s angry shouts followed her from the room. Her heart was breaking. It’s for you. A short time of unpleasantness so we can have a lifetime of happiness. Her father stopped to talk with the men from the courthouse, who waited by the door. He gestured to the back room, told them to take care of Trevor and wait for their return. Then he guided her from the building to his waiting car. Maggie struggled to come up with a plan. Soon, she would be on her way to help her father, whether she wanted to or not. She couldn’t leave Trevor in their hands. Her father said she was gullible, but she knew they wouldn’t take any chances. They would kill Trevor, of that she was sure. She had to stop them. **** “How did you know about the mayor’s office?” Maggie questioned her father, trying to distract him, to buy some time to come up with a plan so she could escape and save Trevor. He laughed. “A well-paid informant on the inside. You see, my girl, proof that money can buy anything. I’ve had my eye on Sinclair since he left, always knew every move before he made it. I knew his latest setup was the perfect opportunity to reel you

both back in.” “I still can’t believe you planned everything from the start. I risked my career, my freedom, to save your life. I haven’t seen you in years, and I still did it for you.” “Women are so predictable,” he said with a sneer. “You’re so much like your mother, Maggie. Always trying to redeem people, believing everyone has good in them. Never occurred to her or you that some people don’t want to be saved. That I like who I am.” “You’re a monster,” she whispered. Tears burned in her eyes, drops of betrayal and hatred. Trevor was right. She realized too late he’d told her the truth about Sam all along. “You did kill someone, didn’t you?” “A man has to protect what’s his, Maggie girl.” His unfeeling response told her more than his words ever would. They reached his vehicle, and Sam opened the car door. It was now or never. She pretended to stumble and broke free from her father’s grasp. Maggie ran back towards the building as fast as she could. She had to get to Trevor! “Maggie McCleary!” Her father’s voice bellowed behind her, the same voice of command he’d used when she was five years old. It had always stopped her in her tracks. Until now. Before she reached the door, Trevor burst through it. Sobbing aloud, she rushed towards him. The new bruises on his face were already turning a mean color. “Trevor, thank God.” Her arms wound around him before quickly pulling away at his gasp of pain. “Maggie, are you okay?” His words came out in pants, his gaze fixed on something over her shoulder. Maggie’s relief turned swiftly to dread when she turned and looked back at her father, his gun raised again. From the metallic click, he was prepared to fire. “No!” Throwing herself in front of Trevor, she screamed desperately. “You’ll have to kill me first, Dad. Go ahead, shoot me, you heartless bastard!” “Move aside, Maggie.” He walked closer to the couple, the gun still raised, his arm steady. “Why are you doing this to me?” Hysteria threatened to overtake her at any second. This was surely a nightmare she couldn’t wake from. In a moment of decision, she threw herself at Sam, knocking his arm aside. Her father backhanded her like a pesky fly, and she fell to the hard pavement. As he stood, looking down at her, not a flicker of regret crossed his face. Trevor roared, launching himself at the older man, letting hatred fuel the momentum that sent them tumbling to the ground. With the moon illuminating the two struggling figures on the ground, Maggie stood on trembling legs. She circled the two fighting men, waiting for any opening that would allow her to assist Trevor. The air resounded with grunts of exertion as both tried to wrestle control of the gun away from the other. “This is it, old man. You’re finished,” Trevor growled. “It’s not over until it’s over,” her father replied. “It … is … over…” Trevor’s strong grip forced her father’s hand outward. Bang! The explosion nearly deafened her.

Maggie screamed. Was Trevor hit? Was he dead? Her frantic gaze met her father’s eyes, and the ground suddenly tilted precariously. What was happening? Trevor appeared at her side, his face overflowing with anguish. He was saying something, but Maggie couldn’t hear anything over the roaring in her ears. She started to crumple to the ground, and he caught her, cradling her body and lowering her, his hands soothing on her face. She smiled up at him. “You’re alive.” He gently kissed her lips. “I am. Now I need you to stay that way, okay? We have our whole future together. You can’t leave me now. Hold on. I love you, Maggie.” Her fingers brushed lightly across his temple. “I love you too, Trevor.” Her hand fell away. Her sigh sifted out into the air, and her body went limp in his arms. **** Maggie saw a bright light ahead. Her eyelashes fluttered, and she blinked away the brilliance. A stark room came into focus. Where was she? Her eyelids drooped, too heavy to hold open for long, but she was able to make out a figure next to her, slumped over, resting against her arm. She lifted her hand, laying it on his head. A tired smile touched her lips. Trevor stirred at her touch, his sleepy gaze only inches from her face. A brilliant smile full of relief covered his face. He leaned forward to kiss her softly. “Welcome back, Sleeping Beauty,” he whispered. “You gave me the scare of my life.” “Where am I?” she croaked. Her lips were sharp against her questing tongue. “The hospital. You were shot, do you remember?” She nodded, and the night came flooding back to her. “Luckily, the bullet missed anything vital. Aside from the shock and a little soreness, you’re going to be just fine. A long, happy, uneventful life awaits you.” He kissed her again, twining his fingers with hers. “My father?” she questioned. A dark look crossed his face. “He’s gone.” His reply was curt. “Dead?” she whispered. “No, I mean he’s gone. The bastard shot you then took off like the coward he is. Didn’t even bother making sure you were okay. The only good thing that man has ever done in his life was to call the ambulance before he disappeared.” As he spoke, fury covered his face. “I’ll find him.” She pressed her finger against his lips. “You need to let it go. I’m okay. You’re okay. We got through it. Now we can start over, together.” “I can’t, Maggie. As long as he’s free he can hurt you, us. I have to go after him.” His jaw tightened. “I refuse to let him take one more minute of my life from me. You’re the most important thing in it now. That’s all that matters.” Trevor had survived. She’d survived. If he went after her father now, a very real chance existed that he could be killed. Her stomach clenched at that dire thought. “Trevor Sinclair, if you leave, don’t you dare come back. You have to make a choice right now. Me or your petty revenge.”

She prayed her ultimatum would work. He stood, leaning down to press his lips against hers. A kiss full of tender passion. Of regret and apology. “I’m sorry. I love you, Maggie mine. With all my heart.” He turned and walked out the door. Wait! Her heart screamed out when the door clicked shut. She wanted him to come back, so she could tell him she didn’t mean it, that fear made her say those awful things. Please come back. I do love you. More than anything in this world. But it was too late. Her heartbroken sobs echoed in the empty room.

Chapter Eight Maggie spent the first few weeks out of the hospital at Trevor’s apartment, her recovery aided by Amanda’s helpful and sympathetic assistance. A strong friendship grew out of the bonds forged a few short months prior. Amanda talked Maggie into renting the apartment a few doors down from hers. That Trevor lived in the same building, only two stories up, had little to do with her decision, at least that’s what she told herself. Since her old apartment had been cleared as a crime scene, she gathered the few things that hadn’t been destroyed, settling into her new home. Her days were occupied with work and companionship, with Amanda at her side, but the nights held painful memories that caused her lost sleep again and again. Memories of Trevor she suppressed in the light of day haunted her when her eyes closed. She prayed he was okay, wherever he was. She hadn’t heard from him since he’d walked out of the hospital room. Guilt gripped her stomach tight, like it did every time she thought about their last contact. How many times had she wished she could take it all back? To tell him that, no matter what, she loved him, would wait as long as it took? Each morning, she watched the news with dread, waiting to hear the report that a local detective had been killed while on the trail of Sam McCleary. “Let’s call it a day. We can finish up Mr. Burke’s order tomorrow.” Maggie sat back, stretching her arms overhead, a long, weary sigh escaping from between her lips. Amanda made a few more clicks on the laptop in front of her before closing the lid with a satisfied smile. “We’re doing really well on this one. Since I streamlined your tracking system, we’re cutting our overhead by about twenty percent.” “What would I do without you, Amanda?” Over the last six weeks, Amanda hadn’t only played nursemaid to her, she’d found Maggie’s new apartment and helped her settle in. Maggie’s slow recovery hindered her ability to seek out the items her customers needed. Amanda’s intuitive nature had allowed Maggie to keep on top of her business, and they decided to go into a partnership, using Maggie’s existing clientele. It had worked like a charm. Their venture grew by leaps and bounds every day. Maggie closed her eyes, laying her head back against the overstuffed chair. “He’ll come back, Maggie,” Amanda said, as if reading her thoughts. “I wish I felt as confident as you do. Every day, I wonder if today is the day. Will he knock on my door, or will I get a call that he was killed?” A shudder wracked her body. He couldn’t die, not without knowing how sorry she was. “You should lie down for awhile. Rest. The doctor said you should still be taking it easy. Besides, you’re resting for two now, remember.” How could she forget? Two weeks ago, Amanda talked her into taking a pregnancy test, the bouts of sickness baffling to her but obvious to her friend. When the display came up “positive,” dread quickly turned to subdued joy, and she had extracted an oath of silence from her business-partner friend. Trevor could not find out. Not until he made his choice entirely based on his feelings

and not some misbegotten sense of duty. She had no doubt that’s what he’d do. “How about I come by around five?” Amanda interrupted her contemplative state. “Movie and Chinese tonight?” Focusing on the present, Maggie groaned. “As long as it’s not one of those sappy chick flicks you insist on watching. I can’t handle another girl-meets-boy-add-conflict for happily ever after.” Amanda laughed. “Hey, I can’t help it if I’m a hopeless romantic at heart. You should try it. Happy endings aren’t just for movies, you know.” Her pointed glance met with skepticism. “In the real world,” Maggie began, “there’s such a thing as reality. Life doesn’t wrap up with a neat bow after eighty-five minutes.” “Cynic,” her friend teased. “Oh, get out!” Maggie said. “I’ll see you around five, and don’t bring a movie. We’ll walk to the corner and pick one out together. Got it?” She smiled when Amanda saluted her and walked out the door. Alone now, Maggie relaxed into the chair, letting the silence wash over her. Glancing around, she already knew everything would be in place, no cleaning up to do or other menial tasks to distract her from the barrage of memories waiting on the edge of her mind. Waiting for her guard to lower before storming through her head, straight to her heart, assaulting it with painful, guilt-filled blows. “Amanda is right. A nap is what I need.” She indulged further by putting on her worn flannel pajama pants. Well, Trevor’s pants that she had borrowed when she moved into her new place. Pairing it with one of his t-shirts, also borrowed, she slipped between the sheets, closing her eyes in blissful relaxation. The room was cool and comfortable, the shades already drawn to keep out the hot midday sun. A quick snooze, that’s all. Seemingly moments later, a dull thump woke Maggie. She looked around, disoriented and confused. The bedside clock glowed 3:34. She’d slept for over an hour. Straining her ears, she tried to discern exactly what had awakened her. Trevor? No, it couldn’t be. He would announce himself. There it was again, a thumping coming from inside her apartment. Carefully, she slid out of bed, creeping across the plush carpeting to the door, pulling it open slowly to avoid any noise that might give her away. The noises originated in her kitchen, the refrigerator to be exact. Someone had broken in to steal her food? Anyone who knew her would laugh. She wasn’t known for her gourmet capabilities or the selection of food on hand at any given moment. Looking around, she found an old ironware vase. Grabbing the heavy piece around the base, she held it tightly, determined to have a weapon handy in case she had to defend herself. Tip-toeing out of the bedroom, she skirted the perimeter of the living room until she stood, back pressed against the wall, next to the kitchen doorway. The noises were louder now, and she thought she heard a deep voice mumbling something about mayonnaise. If she hadn’t been so scared, she would have laughed. Filling her lungs with air and courage, she lifted the vase over her head and stepped over the threshold. “Don’t move!” Her wide eyes met equally startled, and all too familiar, blue eyes, and she lowered

her arms. Weak limbs trembled of their own volition, and she barely held onto the vase. Fear coursed through her body, pure, unadulterated dread. “What the hell are you doing here?” Though her voice shook, she kept her back straight and strong, fighting the urge to turn about and run. This was her home, damn it. “Ah, Maggie my girl, it’s good to see you, too.” Sam McCleary turned and finished making the sandwich he’d been working on. Maggie watched in frozen disbelief, her stomach knotting, sure she would either fall to the ground in pain or throw up. “You’re out of mayo,” he said, walking by her to settle on the couch. Just like that, her father was back.

Chapter Nine “What do you want, and how did you get in?” Maggie’s disbelief quickly turned to outrage. She stood safely on the threshold of the kitchen, clutching the vase to her chest like a protective amulet. Sam sat on the sofa, casually eating, as if he were a friendly visitor instead of a wanted fugitive. “I can’t drop in on my only daughter once in awhile?” His voice took on a hurt tone, grating across every nerve in her body, giving her back some of her lost courage. “You’re a fugitive who left me to die without a backwards glance. So no, you can’t just drop in on me anytime you want.” Skirting the room, she reached a small table and set her shield on it. “Now wait a minute. I called the ambulance before I left. I couldn’t stick around, that’s all. I did call the hospital to check on you, to make sure you were going to be okay. You’re my only daughter, Maggie. I care what happens to you.” Maggie snorted. “You pulled a gun on me, for Christ’s sake. You tried to use Trevor to blackmail me into sleeping with some stranger. Is that how you show how much you care about me, my ever-loving father?” Sarcasm dripped from her words and fresh hurt and anger flowed through her. She’d managed to push that night from her mind, refusing to give Sam one more minute of her life, but now that he was here, emotions spewed to the surface like bubbles in a shaken can of soda pop. “Now calm down, Maggie. Listen to me. I never would have really hurt you. It was the only way to get that hot-headed cop friend of yours to stop. I’ll admit I was desperate, and it wasn’t the best plan of action, but you have to believe me, I never would have hurt you. I just needed your help, I knew you didn’t want to return to the game, but I thought if I could show you the excitement you’d been missing, you’d want to help me again. I can see now I was wrong. You really did manage to leave it all behind. I’m sorry I dragged you back in.” This uncharacteristic apology from Sam McCleary sent off warning bells like none she’d ever heard before. Her father had actually said he was sorry. Maggie couldn’t remember any other time in her life when those words crossed his lips. She went from anger to wariness. “I simply need a place to crash for a few days. After I rest up, I’ll leave, never darken your doorstep again if that’s what you really want.” His seeming sincerity threw her off-guard. Against her better judgment, she heard herself acquiesce. “You can stay for a couple of days, but after that, I want you gone. Are we clear?” Why did she suddenly feel like a blindfolded prisoner being marched in front of a firing squad? Sam grinned, rubbing his hands together. “That’s my girl. I knew I could count on you. Now, do you think we could get some real food in this place? I’m hankering for a big hunk of steak and some french fries.” Maggie sighed. She’d made a deal with the devil, and everyone knew you never, ever, won with those kinds of odds.

**** “I have a splitting headache I can’t seem to shake, so I’m going to plead illness tonight,” Maggie told Amanda over the phone. “Yes, I’m okay alone. I think I’m going to grab a snack and get back into bed. I’ll call you in the morning and let you know if I need you here tomorrow or not. I may take the day off to rest up some more. Yes. No. I’ll talk to you later. Bye.” Maggie hung up the phone. She’d almost remembered too late that she had a girls’ night in planned tonight. A catastrophe waiting to happen. She glanced at Sam, loudly snoring away on her couch. She looked closer at her father, far less formidable when sleeping. Much more human. Vulnerable, even. A sharp stab of loss cut through her. She wondered what it would have been like to grow up with a regular dad. A father who worked for a living, who didn’t break the law or blackmail his children. Wishful thinking belonged in the past, along with any dreams she may have had for normality. She pulled the throw off the back of the couch, laying it gently over his sleeping form. An unfamiliar and unwelcome tinge of parental protection welled up inside her, and on impulse, she leaned over, giving his leathery cheek a soft kiss. “Goodnight, Dad,” she whispered. God, she hoped she’d made the right choice in giving him another chance. Settling into the chair next to the sofa, she wrapped another soft throw around herself, leaning her head against the cushion, not sure if she was watching over him or out for him. **** Pounding loud enough to wake the dead brought Maggie out of sleep. She vowed to murder the next person who yanked her from the comfort of slumber, tossed the throw aside, and got to her feet. “This better be good,” she grumbled. A quick glance at the clock on the wall showed it was quarter after ten. The pounding came again, followed by the deep voice that haunted her dreams, calling out her name. Electric currents raced across her skin. Her gaze flew to her father’s still-sleeping outline. Trevor was back. She hurried to the door, pausing long enough to lament Trevor’s timing and her lack of ability to, at least, brush her bed-head hair. Why couldn’t she be one of those glam women who rolled out of bed perfectly coiffed, ready for anything? She desperately tried to remember if she’d even brushed her teeth today. Her hand rested on the knob, and she reached across her body to unlock the deadbolt. Anticipation filled her nearly to bursting. Trevor was on the other side of the door. Would he be glad to see her? She tried to decide if she should throw herself into his arms and cry or play the coy flirt outrageously until he was forced to grab her and kiss her senseless to stop the damn chattering. A smile stretched her mouth. She inhaled deeply. This was it. Her heart beat erratically, and she knew if she didn’t open the door this minute, she would explode from excitement. “Get rid of him,” Sam’s dark voice hissed in her ear.

A startled scream lodged in her throat. She’d almost forgotten about her father and the trouble he posed. Ice-cold goose bumps raced from her head to her toes and back again. She tuned quickly, her eyes widening on the gun. “Maggie, I know you’re in there. Open the door,” Trevor called out loudly. “I’m not here,” Sam said, “and you haven’t seen me since the night on the docks. Get rid of him, Maggie, or I will.” The cold metallic click of his gun cocking echoed in her head, reverberating in the frozen space between her ears. “What are you saying?” she managed to whisper through her shock. “I’m not going to prison, Maggie. If he tries to take me in, I will kill him. Here, right now. His life is in your hands, so make it the performance of a lifetime, my girl.” Like he’d threatened Trevor with her future all those years ago, he now did the same to her. Aghast, she examined his face for any sign this was all a misunderstanding, that maybe she was having a nightmare and still lay asleep on the chair. The hard glint reflecting from his eyes shattered that illusion. This was all too real. With the gun, Sam motioned towards the door. Tears gathered in her eyes as she looked at her father. “I hate you, Sam.” He laughed softly. “Not as much as you hate yourself right now, I imagine. You were always such a gullible girl, Maggie, and an even more gullible woman.” He stepped back, disappearing around the corner, waiting for her to make a mistake so he could ambush Trevor. Like hell, she swore to herself. Her father wouldn’t get the chance to hurt Trevor. She would make damn sure Trevor never wanted to come near her again. He’d once made the ultimate sacrifice for her, now she must do the same for him. There was no other way. The moment she opened the door, a look of relief settled on his handsome face. Her heart tore wide open. She steeled herself against the urge to throw her arms around him, instead, using every ounce of strength her five-foot-six-inch body possessed, to lean back against the doorframe. Her arms crossed protectively over her chest. “Maggie?” His voice gave away the uncertainty that held his body stone still. I’m so sorry, Trevor, her heart screamed. I love you. Using her best ice-queen impression, she greeted him in the frostiest tone she could manage. “Hello, Trevor. What the hell are you doing here?” His face fell, and she had to hug her body tighter to quell the urge to pull him close and kiss away the hurt expression. Oh God, she couldn’t do this. He cleared his throat, shifting from one leg to the other, like a nervous teenager asking a girl out on a first date. The stark longing in his eyes when they finally met hers nearly sent her to the ground. She took a quick step backwards to regain her balance. “What do you want, Trevor? And how did you find me?” Nice, Maggie, it wasn’t as though she’d made it difficult or anything. She lived in his building, after all. He relaxed a little, chuckling. The deep sound poured over her like warm honey, turning her blood to liquid fire, her brain to mush. “I’m a cop, Maggie. It’s what I do. Plus, I had someone keeping an eye on you to make sure you were okay.” Her blood went from hot to cold in an instant. Did that mean he knew Sam was here? If he got inside, he was as good as dead. She panicked. Anger. She had to get angry quickly, drive him away. “You had me tailed the whole time you were gone? Let me get this straight. You

knew where I was and what I was doing, while I spent my nights worrying myself sick that you were lying somewhere, dying alone?” Real indignation coated her voice, and she quickly warmed up to the emotion. “I had no idea where you were all this time, not a postcard, a phone call, e-mail, nothing! I could kill you, you ass!” His smile deepened. The more she raged, the wider his grin got, until she stopped mid-sentence and demanded to know what he found so amusing. Instead of answering her, his hands darted out, grabbing her arm, pulling her against his chest. His fingers snaked into her hair, holding her tightly, his lips silencing any protest she had a mind to utter. The moment his tongue slid into her mouth, her body reacted like a match to dry wood, exploding into a fiery inferno of need. She threw her arms around his neck, murmuring her consent despite the danger. Kissing him back feverishly, an edge of desperation clouded her prior instructions, and she gave in to the ravenous desire rising up in her. His free hand lowered until he held her breast. His thumb stroked over her nipple, and it tightened with painful wanting. She arched her back, trying to push closer, eager for the torturous jolts of pleasure his fingers sent racing straight to her center. God, she missed him. Wanted him. Hell, if he wanted, she would let him take her right here in the hallway for anyone to see. Even her father’s presence behind the door didn’t diminish the fiery need for Trevor’s touch. The danger of the situation finally broke through her ardor. With willpower pulled from a place she didn’t even know she had, her hands slid between their bodies, pushing against his chest with all her might. She couldn’t be responsible for his death no matter how much her body and heart wanted him. “No!” Her hand came up in a pitiful attempt to stop him from coming any closer. In a voice loud enough for Sam to clearly hear, she made her last-ditch attempt to get rid of Trevor. “It’s over, Trevor. It’s too late for us. There’s nothing more to say, so please, just leave. I meant what I said in the hospital. Go!” Anguish crept into her voice, her gaze darting to the door, certain that at any minute her father would come rushing out and shoot Trevor. His eyes narrowed on her face, and his voice turned harsh. “Fine. I guess there’s nothing left to say then except goodbye.” He turned and stormed down the hallway. Maggie bravely managed to withhold her tears until he disappeared around the corner. Sinking slowly to the floor, she buried her face in her hands and wept. Tears streamed down over her fingers, soaking through her pajama bottoms. She had done it. Trevor was gone now, for good. Her heart lay in pieces all around her, but at least he was alive.

Chapter Ten Her grief quickly turned to bitterness the longer she sat in the hallway. Trevor’s cologne hung in the air, clung to her clothes, her skin. Her lips still tingled from his kiss. Getting to her feet, she allowed the bitterness to turn to rage and to fill her completely, giving it free reign to wield her words and body. “Get the fuck out of my house,” she shouted, stepping back inside her apartment. “You lying, no good, sorry excuse for a father. I want you gone right now.” Retreating to his prior tactics, Sam said pleadingly, “Now, Maggie, Calm down. Let me explain.” “You brought a gun into my home, convinced your gullible daughter you’d changed, then threatened to kill Trevor. You’re a monster. Do you hear me? I never, ever, want to lay eyes on you again.” Her body shook. She meant every word that spilled out. The man before her was a stranger, not her father. “You’re as good as dead to me. When I wake up tomorrow, you’d better be gone, or I’ll call the police and turn you in myself.” The bedroom door slammed behind her, and she sank back against it, expecting the sting of tears, but relief, profound and welcome, came over her instead. She’d finally made a clean break from Sam. Unfortunately, the cost had been the man she loved. Maybe someday, after Sam was truly gone, they could attempt to put the pieces back together, try to get their happy ending back. Maggie didn’t hold out much hope for that dream. She’d seen the look in Trevor’s eyes when he’d said goodbye. He’d meant it. **** For the third time that evening, something woke Maggie from slumber, this time, coming from her window. Swearing a string of four-letter words, she flipped back the covers, ready to throw whoever it was right back out. The air held a familiar scent, and her heart sped up. A part of her had hoped he wouldn’t give up, that he’d fight for her again, while another, more rational voice, had told her it was for the best. “You’re harder to get rid of than a telemarketer,” she said softly, “you know that?” “Help me in will you? I’m a bit rusty at breaking into third-story windows. Thank God for balconies.” She chuckled, despite herself, and grabbed his arm, tugging when he lifted a leg over the sill. “Exactly what are you doing here?” she whispered. Her breath stuck in her throat, waiting for his answer. Did he know Sam was here, after all, or had he come back for himself? For her? “You didn’t expect me to let you go that easily, did you? I’ll admit that you sent a hell of a mixed-up signal, though. It took me over two hours to decide to come back up and talk to you. To find out what you were trying to do.” His voice raised goose bumps over her arms. He’d come back for her. Part of her rejoiced, while a deeper part warned that it wasn’t over yet. He could still get hurt, even killed. “Trevor, you can’t be here. Can we talk about this tomorrow?” Pushing him back

towards the window, she spoke with hushed urgency. “After we both get a good night’s sleep and have clear heads.” He had to get out of her apartment before her father discovered he was here. He turned and sat on her bed, crossing his arms, hunkering down for what looked like the long haul. “Not until I get an explanation for your dramatic performance in the hallway.” She huffed, crossing her own arms. “I was not being dramatic.” Trevor’s hands shot out from the darkness, grabbing her and pulling her into his lap. “You were an Oscar-worthy drama-queen out there.” When she opened her mouth to protest, his lips quickly covered it. His tongue slid into her mouth, teasing her until she was senseless enough to stop arguing. He pulled back, burying his face in her neck. “God, I missed you. Especially the sweet, honeyed taste of your skin.” His mouth nipped across her shoulder before his tongue traced a hot path to her neck. When he made it back up to her lips, she was dying for his kiss and had completely forgotten the danger lurking outside her bedroom door. With a quick flip, she found herself on her back, her waist straddled by his muscular, jeans-clad legs. His fingers toyed with the neckline of her, no his, t-shirt. Everywhere he touched, her skin sizzled with electricity. Her nipples hardened, pressing wantonly against the soft cotton, not shy at all about what they wanted. Obligingly, he ran the pad of his thumb across one hard bud before squeezing it between thumb and finger. Maggie moaned, arching off the bed. His free hand covered the other side, giving the same treatment to both nipples at once. Her whispered plea sounded like a shout in the still air, as if the room had paused, waiting to see what would happen between the two of them. “So, why the production earlier tonight?” he asked. Reality broke through her hazy cloud of desire, and she tried to sit up. How could she have forgotten? Her father was still here, on the other side of the door. If either man knew the other was so close, all hell would break loose. “Let me up,” she hissed. “Not until I get an explanation.” He was as stubborn as a mule, a pig-headed mule! She opened her mouth, hoping some kind of excuse would spill forth on its own so she wouldn’t have to come up with another lie. The sudden sound of a distinct masculine cough from the main room of her apartment froze both of them, one with fear, the another with suspicion. “Maggie,” he said quietly. “Who’s here?” “It’s nobody. Just a friend who needed a place to crash tonight.” The excuse sounded lame, even to her ears. His eyes glittered above her before he swiftly moved off the bed. She scrambled out behind him, tugging him away from the door. “Trevor, please. Don’t go out there.” He turned on her, his eyebrow raised with that calm, insolent look she hated. “Why, Maggie? Don’t you want me to see who your guest is? Is it some guy you picked up and brought home to fuck?” She gasped at his crude words. Keeping her indignant voice low took every bit of control she had. “How dare you. It’s not, but even if it were, what business is it of yours? You disappeared without a trace. I didn’t even know if you were coming back. If I chose to

move on, well, tough shit for you.” She planted her fists on her hips and stood in front of the door. A dark look crossed his face, and he glared back at her. “OK then, if it’s not, who’s out there? Why are we whispering? A name, Maggie. Either you tell me who, or I go out and introduce myself. Your choice.” “Ooh, you’re like a strutting peacock, doing the perfect impression of a jackass. It’s nobody, just a nobody. Will you please drop it?” She had to get him out of here soon. He couldn’t open that door and see Sam. “Will you go home and chill out? Come back in the morning, and we’ll talk civilized over coffee. Please?” He sighed, nodding his head. “You win.” She relaxed, following when he turned away, thanking her lucky stars. She reached the window and slid it open quietly, pausing to breathe a lungful of crisp night air. Feeling quite pleasant, even after the heated exchange, she opened her mouth to tell him she would explain everything tomorrow. That’s when the door to her bedroom opened. Her head whipped around. She was convinced Sam would be in the doorway, gun in hand. Instead, Trevor stopped, outlined in the dim light, his body unmoving. “Maggie?” The lump forming in her throat caused a moment of panic when she tried to swallow. Oh God, no, this couldn’t be happening. Rushing to his side, dread pooled in the pit of her stomach, and she imagined the worst. She wasn’t ready to watch Trevor die tonight. Desperately, she fought for an explanation, and her gaze finally rested on the sofa. She stared in disbelief. What was she going to do now? Sam was gone. The throw lay haphazardly on the arm of the couch, as if tossed there in a rush. She scanned the room before stepping closer to Trevor. The hairs on the back of her neck stood on end. She felt like a deer caught in the crosshairs, a sitting duck waiting to be picked off. Her fingers twined with his, and she squeezed, drawing his gaze down to hers. She motioned for him to step back into the bedroom, and he complied without question. She breathed a sigh when the door clicked shut. She sank back against the hard wood. “What’s going on, Maggie?” Though he’d barely whispered, his commanding tone let her know the time for games was over. “Sam.” One word that said it all. His body tensed next to hers, and he swore under his breath. “God damn it, Maggie, why would you hide your father? I thought you had more sense than that. I lost him in the city but never thought you’d be the one hiding him.” “I’m sorry, Trevor. He showed up yesterday and sweet-talked me into giving him another chance. He said he needed a place to stay only for a few days.” Guilt at how gullible the words made her sound washed over her, followed by disillusionment. “It was a mistake, though. He hasn’t changed. He’s still the heartless bastard he’s always been. That’s your explanation for the drama earlier. He threatened to kill you if I didn’t get you to go away. I had no choice.” His silence hurt more than if he’d raged at her and gotten it over with. “Trevor, I’m sorry I lied to you.” He didn’t move; barely a breath escaped from him while he stood there in front of her. Her hands reached out to rest on his arms, and she prayed he wouldn’t push her away. Her whole body grew tenser as what seemed like minutes ticked by.

His hands gripped her shoulders, and he gently pulled her away from the door. “Stay in here. Don’t come out until I tell you it’s clear. Understand?” His voice gave her no indication whether or not he was mad at her. “Trevor?” “Stay here, Maggie.” He leaned forward, pressing a quick kiss to her cold lips, then opened the door and slipped out. It closed firmly behind him.

Chapter Eleven Maggie pressed her left ear against the door, straining to hear anything other than the thumping of her own heart. The loud beat drowned out any attempt at eavesdropping. Squaring her shoulders, she turned the knob, quietly opening the door. Why should she stay in her room, anyway? Because he said so? Besides, what if he needed her help? The living room appeared to be deserted. No sign of Trevor or Sam. Feeling more confident now, she skirted the room, heading towards the kitchen. A soft noise reached her ears, and she froze, back pressed flat against the wall, and listened intently. Someone was in the kitchen, but was it Trevor or her father? Light footsteps came closer then paused what seemed like only a few feet from her. She took slow breaths in through her nose and out her opened mouth to try and quiet her breathing, afraid her scared panting would give her away. A large shadow blocked the doorway. Maggie froze in place. If she could stay still enough, maybe she could figure out which man it was. A hand shot out, grabbing a handful of her shirt and pressing her back harder into the wall. “Dad,” she gasped. “You should have listened and stayed in your room, Maggie,” he warned her. “Sinclair!” His shout echoed in the quiet room before being swallowed by the darkness. “You want to keep her alive, come out and lay down your gun.” Maggie found herself dragged in front of Sam, her body held immobile against his chest, forming a shield between him and Trevor. No answering surrender came, and a metallic click sounded in her right ear. Cold steel pressed into her temple, and she couldn’t hold back the terrified sob that tore from her body. Her hand covered her abdomen in a purely instinctual gesture. “You won’t kill her. Then where would you be? Nowhere to go, nothing to bargain with. Face it. You’re losing your touch, old man.” Trevor’s harsh voice taunted Sam from somewhere in the dark room. Sam spun around, clutching her tighter, trying to figure out where the voice came from. His agitated breathing rasped in her ear, and she could feel the tenseness in his body. Trevor, stop goading him, she pleaded in her mind. Maggie fought against the numbness washing over her, fighting off the shock to remain alert in case Trevor needed her. Pinpoints of light danced before her eyes even as she tried to shake them away. “Let her go, Sam. It’s over.” His voice sounded so close, yet far away, as if she were surrounded by fog. Her father’s arm snaked up around her throat, and he yanked her back against his chest. He dragged her along in front of him, edging towards the door and his perceived freedom. Tiny, quick breaths were all she could manage with her father’s arm so tight against her neck. She clawed at it, trying to relieve some of the pressure and get enough air into her lungs to displace the inky blackness creeping along her peripheral vision. Sam stopped at the door, unable to resist a final, gloating remark. As he laughed, Maggie lost the battle and went limp in his arms, the lack of air finally overtaking her. She sank into the darkness with little more than a soft moan. Once again at her father’s

hand. **** “Maggie!” Trevor’s anxious voice sounded in her ear. “Wake up!” Cool fingers pressed against her throat, and his sigh brushed across her cheek. “Come on, wake up now. It’s over. You’re safe.” His soothing voice drew her from the depths of nothingness, and she blinked rapidly against the light shining overhead. Who turned on the light? A pounding on the door brought her the rest of the way into the present, and she sat up with help from Trevor. The room spun wildly for a minute until her bearings returned. When Trevor left her to open the door, she looked around in confusion. Paramedics rushed in, stopping just inside the door. Trevor motioned to the floor, and she followed his movement to the spot where her father lay, a large red stain marring the pale grey carpeting next to him. She covered her mouth to stop from screaming or vomiting, she wasn’t sure exactly which. Trevor rushed back to her side, helping her to stand. They watched the EMTs do their job. Pressing her face into his chest, she managed to ask the question she wasn’t sure she wanted the answer to. “Is he dead?” His hand held her head close, and he leaned down to answer. “No. God knows I should have killed him, but no, he’s not dead. He’ll be taken to Mid-Town Memorial and be put under guard. When he recovers, he’ll be charged, tried, and convicted. It’s up to you whether you want to add to his current charges. No matter what, he’s going to prison for a very long time.” Relief sank to her very soul. Her father was alive; even she wasn’t callous enough to wish he’d died by Trevor’s hand, but he wouldn’t be able to hurt her again. This was the last time she’d have to see him, ever. They were finally free to be together, her and Trevor. If he still wanted her. “I’m sorry,” she whispered. Shame at her own naiveté made her feel unworthy of his forgiveness. He pulled her into his arms and pressed her head on his shoulder. “We’ll talk later,” Trevor said. “You have company.” Maggie turned and saw a white-faced Amanda in the doorway, hair askew, a pink bathrobe covering her body. She met Maggie’s eyes and burst into tears, running into the room and throwing her arms around her friend. “Oh my God, Maggie, are you okay?” Amanda’s tears unleashed her own, and soon both women were sobbing in each other’s arms. “I’m fine,” Maggie said, sniffling. “Trevor was here. He saved me, just like always.” She gave him a watery smile full of love and gratitude. “Trevor!” Amanda squealed and launched herself at him, nearly knocking him offbalance with her enthusiastic hug. “I’m so glad you’re back.” He smiled. “I’m so glad to be back, Amanda. Excuse me for a minute.” Trevor went over to give instructions to the paramedics and the officer who’d just showed up. Amanda grabbed Maggie’s hand and pulled her into the living room. “You have to tell me everything! How did Trevor and your father end up in your apartment?” Maggie gave her friend the abridged version of the past twenty-four hours, and when she ended the story, a wide-eyed Amanda sat back against the couch cushions. “Holy

shit.” “Yeah, something like that,” Maggie said. “So, did you two make up yet? Did you tell him about…” “Um, there hasn’t been much time to talk. What with my psycho father holding me at gunpoint and all.” “True. But look, everyone has gone, and now is the perfect time. Remember, sex after a near-death experience is supposed to be amazing.” Amanda winked and got up. They both laughed. Amanda stopped long enough to give Trevor another hug and whisper something in his ear that made him tip back his head in laughter. Then she was gone, the door closing behind her. Trevor walked over and sat next to Maggie, the smile still lingering on his face. “What did she say that was so funny?” she asked. “She said, don’t forget that sex after a…” “Near-death experience is supposed to be amazing,” she finished for him, and they laughed together. Sitting in silence, alone for the first time since his return, she fidgeted like a nervous schoolgirl on a first date. She glanced at him and smiled, saying the first thing that popped into her head. “Hi.” Stupid, stupid, stupid. “Hi, yourself.” He smiled back, reaching to take her hand. His thumb caressed her palm softly, and he tensed and relaxed all at once. “We should talk. Are you tired? Would you rather wait until you can get some rest?” She shook her head, “I’ve been waiting for a long time, Trevor. We have to bring this to a conclusion. Now is as good a time as any.” She heard his exhale. He took her breath away. Moving to the opposite end of the couch, he stared at her. Desire burned in his eyes, but beyond that, something like wariness, or hesitation, waited. Unease gripped her. The Trevor she knew never hesitated over anything he wanted. Had he changed his mind? “Why did you come back?” she managed to ask, keeping her voice level, the fear at bay. He sighed and looked away. Her heart froze. This is it, the moment of truth. “Maggie, do you remember when your father brought me to your home? I was fourteen, I think, a chip on my shoulder the size of Texas and mad as hell at the world. Sam offered me a place to stay, a home, and for the first time in a long time, I felt safe, like I belonged somewhere. He was the closest thing to a father-figure I ever had.” He turned away, and she didn’t know if he wanted to hear what she remembered or not. She had to say something. “I remember,” she whispered. “I was mad at my father when he did it. I spent my whole life trying to be the son he wanted, and when you showed up, well, I hated you. Hated what you took from me.” “I know. In my own selfish way, I enjoyed it. No one ever gave a shit about me, cared if I ate or had a roof to sleep under. I actually admired the man for awhile, the skills he taught me, us. But it wasn’t until we started training together as a team that I saw you,

really saw you, Maggie. And when I did look, I fell in love, head over heels.” Maggie couldn’t help smiling as he continued. “I think Sam thought I would outgrow it, that the teenage crush would fade, but it didn’t. It grew until I couldn’t stand it, and the night you came to me, I was getting ready to go to Sam and tell him. That was the most incredible night of my life.” She wanted to crawl into his arms and wrap herself around him. Years fell away, and she was an awkward girl again, desperate for love. His words brought back the feelings, good and bad. “That was the night we started planning to get out, to start our new life together. Young, naïve, and foolish to think he wouldn’t find out. I knew where you were all these years, Maggie. I even had your phone number. You were so close but out of my reach.” Her heart broke for him, for the pain he’d lived with. They’d both been hurting, with deception at the root of it wielded by one spiteful man. “Don’t you see? If I hadn’t gone after him, hadn’t brought him in, he would always be there in the back of our minds. You would constantly wonder if today would be the day he resurfaced, threatening and blackmailing. I had to find him, had to end this once and for all. For us. For our future. “And even if you can’t forgive me, I would do it all over again, because now you’re free, Maggie. Free to live your life without fear, free from your past. You have your future back, and that makes it all worth it.” Tears streamed down her face. She knew her ultimatum had been irrational, driven only by the fear of losing him. The past two months had left her plenty of time to think and regret her haste. She’d promised herself that, if she ever had the chance, she would grab it and tell him it was her own stubborn fault. Now he sat next to her, whole and unharmed, after risking everything to ensure her future. A future free from her controlling father once and for all. Her heart overflowed with love. She was finally able to give him everything, exactly as he had done for her. He waited in silence, his face tense, jaw rigid. Another detail she would share with him later, but first, she wanted their reunion to be about them, their love. There would be a lifetime for celebrating but only this one perfect moment when they were free, finally free to be with each other. No ghosts, no pain, no lies, only the honesty of true, abiding love. She caught his gaze, a soft smile coming over her face. Her fingers caught the hem of her shirt and pulled it up over her head before letting it fall to the carpet. His gaze dropped to her breasts, and her nipples tightened. A quick tug loosened the flannel pajama bottoms, and they fell in a soft heap at her feet. She held out her hand, and he groaned. Firm, warm fingers meshed with hers, and the familiar thrill shot up her arm. Giving a slight tug, she coaxed him from the couch, turning to lead him into the bedroom. When they reached the threshold to the room, his arms slid around her from behind, and the room spun at his quick turn of her, ending it in his arms. His mouth descended, covering hers in a heated kiss. She moaned into his mouth and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I missed you, Maggie,” he whispered against her lips. “I missed you too, Trevor. I’m sorry for the things I said. I didn’t mean them.” She

had to make sure he knew it. “I was terrified of losing you again. That’s my only excuse.” His lips took hers again, softer yet more demanding this time, his hot tongue stroking boldly into her mouth, stirring the fire already flaming inside. She pulled away, gasping for breath. “Thank you. Thank you for giving us a future. I love you.” “I love you more than anything in this world, Maggie,” he told her. “You’ve had my heart since I was sixteen years old, and you’ll still have it when I’m ninety-six.” “Oh, I see how you are. So when you turn ninety-seven, I’m history, huh?” “A man should have options, right?” He laughed when she punched him in the stomach. “I finally see your true colors. I’m never going to get rid of you, am I?” She looked up at him, her heart on her sleeve and the love in her heart shining out through her eyes. “Not on your life. You’re mine, Trevor Sinclair, and I’ll make sure you never forget it.” This time she pulled his head down, sliding her tongue between his lips and giving him a taste of the upcoming pleasures she had in mind. They may have left the life behind years ago, but Maggie knew for sure he had stolen her heart with the skill and perseverance of a true thief. The End About the Author: Visit ElainaHuntley.com

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