Hard Bargain [Aspen]

Hard Bargain

Grace Wen Aspen Mountain Press

Hard Bargain Copyright @ 2011 by Grace Wen

This e-book is a work of fiction. While references may be made to actual places or events, the names, characters, incidents, and locations within are from the author’s imagination and are not a resemblance to actual living or dead persons, businesses, or events. Any similarity is coincidental.

Aspen Mountain Press PO Box 473543 Aurora CO 80047-3543 www.AspenMountainPress.com

First published by Aspen Mountain Press, July 2011 www.AspenMountainPress.com

This book is licensed to the original purchase only. Duplication or distribution via any means is illegal and a violation of International Copyright Law, subject to criminal prosecution and upon conviction, fines and/or imprisonment. The e-book cannot be legally loaned or given to others. No part of this e-book can be shared or reproduced without the express permission of the publisher. ISBN: 978-1-60168-426-6

Released in the United States of America Editor: Lori A. Basiewicz Cover artist:: Amanda Kelsey

Warning This e-book contains language that some may find objectionable. Store your e-books carefully where they cannot be accessed by younger readers.

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Chapter One

Jenna hated being the center of attention, but with three pairs of eyes fixed accusatorily on her, it was hard to avoid. She forced herself to keep her head up as she met her colleagues' gazes. So much for courage under pressure. She had felt her confidence evaporate, replaced by dread, the moment after she cast her vote against the merger. She had voted her conscience, but Brad Tremaine’s glare pinned her to the conference room chair. His thick brows knitted together as he ran his hand through his hair, tousling it in a way that made Jenna wonder how he looked first thing in the morning. Stop it, Jenna. Your law firm is on the line here. "That's your final decision?" Brad asked. Jenna knew Dave Gilmore and Glen Crowe, her two partners, were hoping she would change her mind about the merger with Tremaine & Cole. When the three of them started GCP Law Group eight years ago, they had modest expectations with offices to match. They were more concerned about serving their clients than

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maximizing profits. That all changed three years ago when their growing business expanded to new offices and twenty associates. It started with the mahogany conference table they were sitting around and the plush black leather chairs purchased over Jenna's objections. Then there was the private bathroom Glen built. To be fair, he paid for it with his own money, but Jenna still thought it sent the wrong message, especially when she saw the marble walls. "We're on our way up," Glen had said. "Why can't we enjoy it? It's time to start playing like the big guys." Jenna had wanted to tell Glen that being a mid-sized firm in flyover country wasn't exactly "big time," but that was before Brad had contacted them proposing the merger. Jenna ignored the offer, hoping it would disappear on its own. From her research, she learned Brad's last two law firm mergers imploded, with mass layoffs after Tremaine & Cole poached each firm's clients and cherry-picked the attorneys they wanted to keep. Jenna wasn't letting that happen to her firm. She'd hired and trained nearly all of the associates, and with so many people working for them, other people depended on her to make the right decision. Dave and Glen had forgotten about that when they saw the insane profits per partner Brad's firm promised. They'd eagerly negotiated with Brad's advance team without her. "Well?" Brad said. Jenna forced herself to look straight at Brad. She folded her hands on the table to keep them from trembling. She was glad no one could see her legs. She planted her feet

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on the floor. "Mr. Tremaine, I think I speak for the rest of my partners when I say we appreciate your interest in our firm." She looked at Dave and Glen for confirmation. Their faces were unreadable. She took a deep breath and continued. "I have to say, I'm not quite convinced this merger would be in our firm's best interests." "Your partners appear to disagree," Brad said. "There's a reason we require a unanimous vote for any major decisions." Her voice grew stronger. "You've covered the financials, client conflicts, partnership, businessrelated decisions, all of which show up in the contract. But none of my concerns regarding associate management have been addressed." Jenna glanced at Dave just in time to catch him rolling his eyes. He sighed and crossed his arms. Oh well, let him be ticked off. She was used to it. Maybe because they didn't understand her role in the firm. Although she was the third named partner, she was responsible for bringing in over half of the clients. Funny how Brad's advance team overlooked that fact when they assumed she would follow Dave and Glen's lead. Being a woman in a man's world meant constantly being underestimated. She'd thought she'd be used to it by now, but she still felt like she had something to prove. It got old. Brad interrupted her thoughts. “I’m sorry my team didn't address your concerns as thoroughly as you had liked," he said. "I'll personally make arrangements so we can

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answer any lingering questions you have." She shrugged. "Do whatever you think you need to do." Jenna stood up. As far as she was concerned, any discussion of a firm merger was over. She walked over to Brad and extended her hand. "I'm sorry you came to Detroit for nothing," she said. "I know you expected to close this deal today. I guess that's the problem when you have intermediaries do the groundwork for you." Brad rose from his chair and grasped her hand. He didn't shy away from being firm with his handshake. Jenna had noticed it when they first met, but she wasn't prepared for the tingle that radiated from her palm and shot up her arm. He held her hand a fraction of a second longer than was proper. Jenna gasped and let go of his hand, then immediately felt silly for doing so. It wasn't like he'd groped her, but the way he had touched her hand felt disturbingly intimate. She tugged at her jacket, gathering her composure. "Mr. Tremaine, my partners will help you find your way out. If you have any questions, you know how to reach me." Brad smiled for the first time. "I'll be in touch. Soon."

****

Brad watched as Jenna stepped through the glass door and down the hallway. Despite her prim, dress-for-success grey suit, he could see the way her pants hugged the curves of her bottom as she walked. Maybe if she took off that damn hair clip and

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lost the ice queen attitude, she'd be worth a second look, but right now she was in his way, and he didn't like it one bit. Dave and Glen were still seated. Brad returned to his place at the head of the conference table. "I thought you said this was a done deal? Was Jenna's vote a surprise to you, too?" Dave shifted in his seat. "Not really." "So you brought me out here for nothing." "No, no, it's not like that," Dave said. "Jenna's been avoiding this deal since we started talking. She said she wanted nothing to do with it and mentioned something about your track record." Brad winced. "Ah, I see. Why did you keep talking with us then?" "Jenna won't admit it, but this is a good deal for everyone. We don't have enough manpower to handle the really big deals and lawsuits for our clients. And, truth be told, our larger clients want a name-brand firm for that kind of work so they won't be second-guessed by their boards. You have that brand. We don't." "Fair enough," he said. "What do I need to do to convince Jenna to approve the merger? I thought my team had covered all the bases, but obviously they missed something. Any ideas?" Dave and Glen gave each other puzzled looks. Glen shoved his glasses higher on his nose and coughed. "Come on, you've worked together for eight years," Brad said. "That should have been enough for you to know how she thinks."

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Dave leaned back in his chair. His bulk made the back creak. "She doesn't really spend much time on firm business stuff. Ever hear of minders, grinders, and finders?" "No." "That's how we divided work up among ourselves. I'm the minder and manage everything in the firm, like a CEO. Glen's the grinder because he grinds out the hours, but I also have him co-sign checks and small things like that. And Jenna's the finder because she finds a lot of clients. Okay, most of our clients, I'll admit. But we all have our own clients, and personally I think she spends too much time on schmoozing them and coddling the younger lawyers." Yes, the clients and the associates, Brad mused. The people who pay your bills and do the work. They seemed to forget how much they needed Jenna to keep the firm running. "Fine, so we know she cares about the clients and associates, but leaves the day-today business in your hands. I think I know how to handle that. Anything else I should know about her?" "She's a bit uptight," Dave said. "All she does is work. I guess that's good for the firm, but she doesn't know how to kick back and enjoy life. Everything is one big obligation to her. Maybe if she got laid, she'd be easier to work with." Good lord, this guy's a walking sexual harassment lawsuit waiting to happen. He definitely had to make a note of it before finalizing the merger. He wondered why his advance team hadn't picked up on it. Maybe because he didn't ask them to look beyond the numbers. Dave's expression turned thoughtful. "Hey, I had an idea."

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"What?" Brad asked. "I'm thinking maybe you could work on her and soften her up a bit." He leered and winked. Brad chuckled, the kind of laugh men shared only among other men. To do anything else would've tipped off his discomfort, and he knew it was too early to show how offended he was by Dave's comment. Without Jenna in the room, the testosterone level of the conversation went way up. Glen's own half-hearted laugh turned into a cough. "Dave's just kidding," he said to Brad. "He jokes about stuff like that all the time. He doesn't really mean--" "Of course I did," Dave said. "Hey, it wouldn't be the first time pleasure was used to promote business. I know she's not much to look at, but it's not like you would have to marry her or anything." Brad wasn't sure what Dave's tastes were regarding women, but he wondered whether Dave was blind. In another setting, Brad might have considered Jenna attractive enough for a date or two. "Thanks for the, um, advice," Brad said. Dave smiled at Brad while Glen slouched in his chair and studied his fingernails. "We're happy to help," Dave said. "I know she's a tough nut to crack, but I have a feeling you'll be able to do it without having her break your own." Brad shook his head. If he didn't know better, he would've thought he was in a men's locker room. "I'll call my office and let them know I'll be staying for another few days."

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"Good. Hey, if you stick around for the weekend, you can even check out the Woodward Dream Cruise. It's great if you like cars. Jenna likes cars, so maybe you can work on her and get on her good side by Monday. She should be in a decent mood this weekend." "She obviously didn't warm up to me today," he said to Dave. "How do you expect me to get on her good side in a weekend?" Dave clapped him on the back. "Don't worry," Dave said. "I know where she'll be tomorrow." "Tomorrow's Friday. We'll all be here, right?" Dave laughed. "No one works the day before Dream Cruise. Do you jet ski?"

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Chapter Two

The circular driveway in front of Dave's house was already lined with cars when Brad arrived, so he parked on the street. Judging from the music, the party was already in full swing. Dave's house was one of only five mansions on a secluded section of Quarton Lake, which sat just outside the posh suburb of Birmingham where Brad was staying. Brad figured Jenna's law firm must be doing quite well if Dave could afford such a nice, if showy, house. The woman who opened the door gave Brad a quick glance, then did a double take. "Well, hell-oo there," she said. "Are you here for the pool party?" The languid way she shifted her hips made it clear that even if he wasn't, she'd make sure he would be. "Yes, I'm here for the party. Is Dave around?" "He's out back. I'm Susan Gilmore." She held out a manicured, tanned hand. Brad gave it a distracted squeeze, but Susan refused to let his hand go as she led him through their house to the backyard. Although Brad suspected many of the guests were co-workers or business 10

colleagues of Dave's, the party still felt like a college frat party, complete with bikiniclad women playing volleyball and bouncing in time to Bruce Springsteen. An expanse of smooth emerald lawn linked Dave's house to the sand that led to the lake. Two jet skis sat on the water's edge, ready for the moment when the party bumped up to the next level. He felt like he had stepped into the ultimate cliché of a summer romp. "Brad!" Dave gave him a hearty clap on the back and handed him a beer. "Glad you could make it." Brad scanned the crowd. "You weren't kidding when you said no one worked today." "That's because they can't cross Woodward. Or they could try, but they'd be stuck in traffic for hours." "So where's Jenna? I don't see her." "Relax, buddy, have a drink. She's around here somewhere. You have plenty of time to take care of business. Sit back and enjoy yourself. We've got all evening." Brad took a swig of his beer. "Nice party," he said. "Impressive place, too. I knew business was going well, but I guess I didn't appreciate how well." "Yeah, well, it's probably not as nice as what you're used to," Dave said. Before Brad could disagree, Dave continued, “I’m small potatoes compared to most of my buddies. If you think my place is nice, you haven't seen anything yet. I still think I got in the wrong field. Maybe I should have been an investment banker or something." "I didn't realize Dream Cruise was such a big deal," Brad said. Dave didn't seem to notice Brad's abrupt change of the subject. "People drive their

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classic cars only when the weather's nice. Summers here are so short, so we take advantage of it when we can. Want to check them out?" "Sure," Brad said. "Where are they parked?" "I told people to park the nice cars by the side of the house closer to the street. You head on over. I'll be there in a few minutes." Brad wandered around the backyard until he reached the patio where the coolers were kept. He pulled out a fresh bottle of beer, then walked around the side of the house. He didn't have to go far before he saw the cars gleaming in the sun. A surprising number of people milled around, stepping around the cars as if they were in a museum. One woman caught his eye even though he could only see her back. She wore a white halter dress that left her back bare. Her blond hair was pulled back in a sleek ponytail low against the nape of her neck. Even though she looked every bit as glamorous as the other female guests, something about the way she stood made Brad pause. She had a cool aura that warned him not to come closer. When she turned to say hello to the couple next to her, he realized it was Jenna. Brad expected to see her at the party, but he didn't expect her to look so . . . sexy. Sure, he had thought she was attractive when they first met, but the pantsuit she wore at the time didn't reveal her satiny calves. Or the expanse of bare skin on her back. The soft fabric clung to her breasts and draped over her hips to reveal a figure that made his mouth go dry. Compared to what he saw of her before, she seemed practically nude. Jenna strolled for a few minutes before stopping next to a gleaming burgundy convertible with its top down. To Brad's untrained eye, it was the best-looking car in the

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group. An elderly gentleman greeted Jenna, and they soon were in deep conversation, pointing to various parts of the convertible. Brad approached the two of them and pretended to admire the smooth lines of the hood. In reality, he was admiring the waterfall of silk skimming Jenna's body. "I like the shape," he said. Jenna stopped talking. Her spine stiffened as she lifted her head. He'd expected her icy stare to knock some sense into him. Instead, tension hummed through his muscles, tightening his body everywhere. Why were his hormones surging like an oversexed teenager's? "Excuse me?" she asked. "I was talking about the car," Brad said. "I really like the shape of the car, nice proportions. It has lovely curves." Yours aren't so bad either. "I'll talk to you later," Jenna said to the other man. She watched him saunter toward the house and waited until he was out of earshot before turning back to Brad. "Funny seeing you here," she said. "I didn't know Dave invited you." "I wouldn't miss it. He told me Dream Cruise is a big deal around here. The cars are amazing, by the way. I've never seen so many old cars in one place." He pointed to the convertible. "That one's especially nice." A smile flitted across Jenna's face. "Thank you. It's mine." "Really? Wow, that's quite a toy. It's gorgeous." "Yes, they really knew how to design cars back then. It's a 1955 Porsche Cabriolet. It's no muscle car, but it's fun to drive."

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"How do you mean?" "It's really a stripped-down Volkswagen Beetle. The engine isn't huge, but the car's still pretty fast despite its lack of power." Brad sensed Jenna's icy facade thawing as she talked. Maybe she was more comfortable with machines instead of people. "See the inside?" she said, pointing. "Nothing fancy. Just a steering wheel, pedals, and a stick shift. It's really all anyone needs." "What's that for?" Brad asked, pointing to a silver handle on the dashboard. Jenna smiled tentatively. "That's for the passenger to grab when the driver says, 'Hey, watch this.'" The oxygen left Brad's brain. Jenna was already beautiful angry, but now, with a glimmer of warmth in her eyes, she was devastating. Being tall enough to have a perfect view down the V-neck of her dress didn't help. He tore his eyes away from her, afraid she'd catch him staring. That didn't stop him from being intrigued. He was still startled she was here among the cars, alone, instead of mingling with the crowd. He hadn't pegged her as the anti-social type. "And how do you know so much about cars?" he asked. She shot him a look suggesting he was quite dim. "I grew up in the Detroit area. It's in the water." "Still, it must be tough to find someone to work on a car like that. Or do you do it yourself?" "I have a friend who fixes cars, so I have her do most of the work. All I can do is basic maintenance like changing the oil."

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"That's more than I can do, so color me impressed." Jenna glanced at the house. "Did Dave send you here?" "Yes. Why?" She cursed under her breath. "I wish he would leave me alone," he said. "I came here to relax and check out cars. I didn't expect to be ambushed." "Maybe he thought meeting here would smooth things over so it'll be easier to work together." Jenna crossed her arms over her chest. " Let me make myself clear so there are no misunderstandings. I'm not about to hand over my law firm to you so you can raid my clients and kick most of my attorneys out. I've seen how you've handled law firm mergers before. Frankly, they're takeovers. You might as well be pirates." "Wow, that's harsh. I made them profitable--" "Yes, after creating a lot of turmoil for the people working for them. Look, I don't what Dave told you, but I've never been interested in selling my practice to a big firm. Apparently, my partners hoped bringing you here would change my mind." Brad flashed his most charming smile. "'So, has it?" "Considering this is only the second time we've talked, no." He leaned closer, close enough so he could feel a hint of the warmth from her body, almost trapping her between the car's frame and his own. "Give me a little time. I can be quite persuasive, you know." Jenna ducked her shoulders and stepped to one side. "And I can be quite stubborn," she said.

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Brad took a deep breath, buying time to choose his words carefully. "You know," he said, "your partners could always dissolve the firm if you keep holding out. They can dissolve it, say to hell with everyone else, and join me on their own." "They wouldn't do that." Her voice quavered, and Brad knew he'd hit a nerve. "Are you sure?" he asked. "They took things this far without asking you. What's to stop them from going further?" Brad regretted the words as soon as they left his mouth. He knew he spoke the truth, but that didn't help him feel any better. The frightened looked on Jenna's face wasn't worth it. Jenna rested a slender hand on the door handle. "You've given me a lot to think about. Now if you'll excuse me, you're leaning on my car." Brad stepped aside, then brushed her hand away from the door handle. "Allow me," he said. "You may still think I'm a jerk, but I might as well be a gentleman about it." After he opened the door for her, she swept past him and settled herself into the seat. She fussed with her skirt, arranging the fabric around her legs. She seemed to be keeping herself busy so she wouldn't have to look at him She shoved her key into the ignition, but didn't start the car. Instead, she gripped the steering wheel and stared straight ahead. "I'm surprised you're leaving so soon," he said. "I'm not leaving," she said to the windshield. "I'm just sitting here." "Why?" "It calms me down. This is my security blanket." She patted the dashboard. She

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closed her eyes and took a few deep breaths. Her chest rose and fell. A minute later, she opened her eyes. "There," she said. "I think I can avoid being bitchy for another few hours." Brad thought he saw that flicker of warmth again in her wry smile. "Look, I know we had a rocky start, so I'd like to start over. Hi, I'm Brad Tremaine." Jenna eyed his extended hand. "I don't want to waste any more time arguing, so why don't you show me around instead?" he said. Jenna considered this for a moment, then leaned over and unlocked the passenger door. "Get in," she said. Brad felt like he won a small victory. He slid into the seat and closed the door. "I also promise not to talk about work," Brad said. "Believe it or not, there's more to me than the law firm." "That makes one of us, I suppose," Jenna said, turning the key in the ignition. The car roared to life. Jenna maneuvered her car off of Dave's lawn and onto the street. "If we go out for drinks, I can't be a designated driver," Brad said. "Why not?" He nodded toward Jenna's right hand resting on the shift knob. "I don't know how to drive a stick. You probably want to keep your transmission." Jenna's smile was genuine, reaching her large, blue eyes. Brad wished he had a camera. He knew the next few days would be a challenge work-wise, but for now, they

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could pretend they were simply new friends. "Yeah, you're right," she said. "I'll do the driving."

****

Jenna struggled to keep her eyes on the road as she navigated her way through downtown Birmingham toward Woodward Avenue. For Dave's party, Brad swapped his tailored suit for a pale blue button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up, dark jeans, and dark brown loafers. He'd left the top buttons of his shirt open, revealing a tiny wedge of snowy white undershirt and a few dark hairs peeking over the top edge. She wondered whether they were as soft as they looked. She was glad Brad proposed a truce. Despite their disagreements, he seemed like a decent person. Besides, it was polite to show the out-of-town guest around. Brad rested his arm against the window sill and adjusted his sunglasses. A huge grin spread across his face as the wind ruffled his hair. "Enjoying yourself?" she asked. "Immensely." Jenna turned right onto Woodward, and the traffic immediately slowed to a crawl. She stayed in the far right lane with the rest of the classic cars. Thankfully, traffic seemed to be moving a little quicker in her lane. Several people waved and honked at her in approval. To Jenna's surprise, Brad waved back at them. She hoped none of the drivers were women. He might stop traffic and cause a wreck.

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"I thought Dream Cruise was tomorrow," Brad said. "It looks like it's in full swing already." "It's officially tomorrow, but people have been bringing their cars out earlier and earlier until Dream Cruise day is like Dream Cruise week." Jenna inched forward. "Did you eat at Dave's?" she asked. "No. I left soon after I got there." "Do you like burgers?" Brad's smile widened. "Love them." "Great, I have some place in mind. Best burgers in town. Even the local chefs go there after work." "Sign me up. How far is it?" "About three miles, which means it will probably take about half an hour to get there." They pulled into the parking lot of Redcoat Tavern, which was a shabby red brick building with a picture of a Revolutionary War soldier painted on one wall. To Jenna's relief, the place wasn't terribly crowded and they didn't have to wait long for a seat. As soon as they sat down, a tall woman stopped by their booth. "Jenna!" the woman said. "Wow, you look nice. Special occasion?" She directed a significant glance at Brad. Jenna felt the heat rise in her cheeks. "No, we came from Dave's party. Brad, this is Kate Powell. She works for one of my clients. Kate, this is Brad Tremaine. He's in from DC."

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She avoided mentioning anything more about why Brad was in town. She'd complained enough to Kate about the merger when things first started. Bringing it up again would only spoil what was turning out to be a nice evening. She hoped Kate would get the hint. "Ah," Kate said, shaking Brad's hand. "Nice to meet you." "Are you here by yourself?" Jenna asked. "Nah. I'm with Charlie trying to talk her down. Her Dad hired a consultant to help her with something at work and she's going ballistic. I didn’t get all the details, but I think she just needs someone to listen to her and feed her onion rings." "Charlie's the one who fixes my car," Jenna said to Brad. "She and Kate went to undergrad together." "Well, I'll let you two get back to it," Kate said. "I'll call you later." After Kate left, the waitress brought them their water and took their orders. Brad cradled the water glass in his hands. "Isn't this better than fighting?" Brad asked. "Very much so. So why weren't you this nice yesterday?" "You didn't give me much of a chance. I'm not the asshole you think I am, you know." "I never said you were. Okay, I thought you were a bit . . . overbearing, but that's your job. I can't fault you for that." "Thanks for understanding." "Besides, outside of work, you seem like a decent guy as far as lawyers go."

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Brad laughed, a deep, sexy rumble that made Jenna's body tingle. "That's quite the qualifier, but I'll take it. And how did you end up being a lawyer yourself?" Jenna couldn't remember what she told him because she was too enthralled looking at him. When he smiled, the corners of his eyes crinkled and a dimple appeared on his left cheek. She wanted to reach across the table and feel the sandpaper roughness of the evening shadow along his jaw. Brad was surprisingly easy to talk to. Dinner flew by as they shared stories about where they grew up, law school life, anything that happened more than ten years ago so they'd avoid talking about why they were meeting in the first place. When they left the restaurant, Jenna tuned the radio to a classic rock station and cranked up the volume. Brad tilted his head back and sighed. "I love this," he said. "It's like being in high school all over again." "But with a much nicer car." "And a much hotter woman," Brad said. Jenna felt her cheeks flame yet again. Damn, he was a ridiculous flirt. Brad was right, of course. It really was like being in high school again, raging hormones and all. "Hey, I spot an ice cream place up the road. Care for dessert?" he asked. It was an innocent question, but the way his voice lingered over the word "dessert" made his question sounded more like a tempting invitation to something else. She pulled into the parking lot next to a stunning Mustang. Its royal blue paint gleamed under the streetlights, and the chrome was polished to a mirror shine. A man leaned against the car, stretching his Tigers shirt over his belly. He popped open a Coke

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can and gave an approving nod Brad's way. "Hey mister, nice car you've got there. Nice girl, too. You must trust her a lot to let her drive it." Jenna opened her mouth, ready to say something to the jerk, but Brad slipped an arm around Jenna's shoulders. "I agree with you on the girl, but the car's hers. She lets me ride in it when I behave myself." He led her away from the man and toward the crowd in front of the ice cream shop. Brad whistled a few notes and drew Jenna a little closer. Jenna was grateful for Brad's support because she wasn't sure her knees could hold her up. "What was that for?" she asked. She wanted to slip her arms around his waist, but she suspected Brad's boyfriend act was simply for the rude man's benefit. Brad let go of her shoulders and reached in his back pocket for his wallet. "He's was being a jerk," he said. "I could tell you were getting angry." Jenna wanted to hug him. She also wanted him to touch her again to ease the ache gathering inside her. "What would you like?" Brad asked. Jenna stepped up to the window and asked for a small turtle sundae. When both of them got their treats, they leaned against the rear bumper of her car to watch the other vehicles go by. "Here, want to try a bite?" Brad held out his spoon, which held a dollop of the brownie sundae he had ordered. Jenna hesitated, then let him feed her. She gave him a spoonful of her own sundae. The intimacy of the gesture wasn't lost on her. Brad nudged her elbow and pointed. "Is that a DeLorean out there?"

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Jenna looked in the direction Brad was pointing and saw an angular, low-slung silver car inching along among the traffic. The shape was unmistakable "Yep, it is." Brad's face brightened with excitement. "Wow, I've never seen one of those in real life. I've only seen in it that movie with Michael J. Fox." "Back to the Future," Jenna said with a laugh. "Yeah, that movie immortalized the car. Can you believe it was built for only two years? I think they made less than ten thousand of them total." "Seriously?" "I'm a fountain of useless car trivia." "Not useless at all. You'd make a great bar trivia partner." "I'll remember to put that on my resume." Jenna glanced at the traffic, which was still at a crawl. "I should get you back to Dave's before it gets too late. It's going to take a while." "Is it okay if I close my eyes for a bit?" "Go ahead." Jenna was relieved Brad decided to take a quick nap. She had no idea how she should say goodnight. Shake hands, maybe? She thought he'd flirted with her, but maybe she was reading too much into his friendliness. Jenna wondered whether he would invite himself for a late-night coffee. Maybe she should invite him instead, but would he think she was coming on to him? Not that she wasn't, but she didn't want him to think she liked him that way when even she wasn't sure how she felt about-Oh, forget it. No wonder she never went out on dates. The protocol was more

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complicated than the corporate tax code. She pulled up near Dave's house and turned off the engine. Dave's party had quieted down, with the volleyball court replaced by a bonfire. Guitar music and drunken singing wafted through the air. "Hey," she said, gently shaking his shoulder. "We're back." She was glad she'd caught a glimpse of Brad asleep. She could imagine him sleeping next to her that night. Brad yawned and stretched his arms. "I needed that break," he said. "Thanks." In the fading light, he looked even more tempting. The shadows softened the chiseled planes of his face. She tore her eyes away. She didn't want him know she thought of kissing him. Jenna walked him to his car, staying close enough for him to reach for her hand if he wanted to. He didn't. Brad opened the door, but didn't get in right away. He seemed like he was waiting for something. "Thanks for a wonderful evening," he said. "I had a nice time too." Jenna traced circles on the ground with her toe. "Maybe we could meet for coffee tomorrow morning?" "I have to wash my car," she said. She squeezed her eyes shut, silently cursing the way she blurted stupid things when she was tired. "Usually women say they have to wash their hair," he chided. "I meant, I'd planned to wash my car tomorrow morning," she said. "I guess you

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could help if you wanted to, but I don't want you to waste your morning simply because--" "I'd love to," he said. "Tell me when and where, and I'll be there with bells on." She grinned. "A shirt and shorts might be better." She wrote her address on a business card and gave it to him. Her fingers brushed against his, sending goose bumps up her arm. He waved at her as he drove off. She waved back, leaving the smile on her face until his car disappeared down the street. She exhaled. Why did Brad have to be so darn nice? And sexy? Sure, she knew he was attractive the moment she saw him, but she didn't expect to feel this kind of longing. She was glad he didn't notice she wanted to kiss him. He'd already made it clear he was only being friendly. Well, at least she didn't make an ass of herself. It would've been awkward kissing him one day and negotiating with him the next. She headed back to her car.

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Chapter Three

"Turn left.". The GPS sure was bossy. Brad obeyed and turned slowly, taking care not to spill the two coffees sitting on the floor. The road curved through an older subdivision with modest ranch homes, many of them with huge oak and sycamore trees shading the yards. Brad slowed even more, keeping a watchful eye for kids. He spotted Jenna's home, a large grey ranch with a circular driveway, and parked in front. Jenna was already outside hosing down the car and singing an off-key rendition of "Don't Stop Believin'" along with the radio. Brad tried to stifle a laugh, but he couldn't help himself. Jenna abruptly stopped. "I should keep my day job, right?" "I plead the Fifth," he said. "Looks like you already started." "I haven't done much, really. Ooh, is one of those coffees for me?" Brad balanced the tray in his hand and gave her one cup. "I didn't know how you liked your coffee, so I brought everything they had. Cream, sugar, fake sugar." "I like it black. Thank you so much." She closed her eyes and took a long sip. When 26

she opened her eyes again, the smile across her face seemed brighter. "Here," she said, tossing him a sponge and setting a bucket next to him. "You can get started on the doors." Brad soaped up the door, but was soon distracted by Jenna reaching over the hood. A sheen of sweat glistened on her chest and gathered between her high, full breasts. Her jean shorts hugged her hips and thighs, not tightly enough to be vulgar, but enough to show off the curves he'd only glimpsed the previous night. He watched the taut muscles of her shoulders and arms flex as she cleaned the windows. Normally he didn't notice women's arms, but her graceful movements drew his eyes to all sorts of places he'd never considered admiring before. He suddenly felt very warm. He dunked the sponge in the bucket and forced himself to get back to work. A comfortable silence settled between them as they washed the car. Jenna didn't even give him instructions. They split the work instinctively without having to say anything. Brad took it as a good omen. As Brad dried the bumpers, Jenna started gathering the rags and buckets scattered on the driveway. Brad knelt beside her. "Here, let me help you." Jenna paused, then smiled. Brad nearly dropped the bucket at the sight of her full, curvy lips tilting upward just for him. He resisted the urge to cover those lips with his own. The heat he felt was definitely not from the weather. "Thanks," she said as she stood up and headed to the garage. Brad trailed behind her.

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Jenna stretched to put her bucket and sponges on a high shelf. She turned around and took the bucket Brad was holding. Her fingers brushed his hand. She snatched her hand away as if she were shocked by the contact. The bucket clattered to the garage floor. "My fault," Jenna said. "I'll get it." He reached for the handle at the same time as she did, closing his hand over hers. The shocked look on Jenna's face was all the invitation Brad needed. They stood up together, her eyes never leaving his. He moved closer to her, slowly, so she could step away at any time if she wished. He trailed a finger along her cheek, his fingertips absorbing the texture of her smooth skin. He wondered if she was that smooth all over. His finger trailed lower and toyed with the edge of her neckline. Brad wasn't prepared for the flood of sensations that coursed through his body when he finally brushed his lips against hers. He prided himself on his self-control, and yet he found it slipping away as Jenna's mouth came alive under his. Brad wrapped an arm around her and pulled her body closer. The sensation of her breasts pillowing against his chest made him impatient for more. He gripped the waistband of her shorts to anchor his hands so they wouldn't wander out of control. The tip of this tongue slicked against the lush softness of Jenna's lower lip, and she opened her mouth to let him explore even more. He tasted her lips, her tongue, with greedy abandon before burying his face against her neck and laying a

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trail of kisses along her throat. Brad inhaled the scent of her perfume, a wisp of woods and spices. He wanted her now. Here. He didn't care if they were in an open garage. His excitement strained against his zipper, and he was sure Jenna could feel it pressing against her. He needed to stop or else he really would tear off her clothes right then and there, neighbors be damned. Brad drew away, his breathing unsteady. His heart pounded inside his chest. Jenna looked at the floor. "Ah, I--" she said. Her voice trailed off. She took a deep, shaky breath. "No worries," Brad said. A rosy flush crept up from her chest to her face. She tucked a wisp of hair behind her ear. Stray pieces had escaped her ponytail, making her look attractively rumpled. "I won't apologize for the kiss," he said. "I didn't ask you to." He had to stop things now, get back to business before he forgot why he was in Michigan in the first place. "I need to get back to the hotel and do some work, but I'll see you on Monday. We can talk more about the merger then." Disappointment flitted across Jenna's face. "I understand," she said. "We have a lot to cover. Thanks for helping me wash my car. And for--." She stopped. "For what?" "For…the coffee. I enjoyed it." "I enjoyed the coffee, too," Brad said. It was strange seeing Jenna so vulnerable. It

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brought out his protective streak. Too bad he was the one she needed to be protected from.

****

Jenna didn't know how she got from the garage to the house. Floated, maybe? Every nerve in her body felt like it had wings. She imagined she was Sleeping Beauty, brought to life by Brad's kiss. Jenna shivered. She remembered the delicious way he smelled and tasted. She wasn't surprised she gave in so easily. His casual clothes made him look approachable and revealed tantalizing parts of his body. His short sleeves exposed strong forearms that rippled when he moved his hands. She'd even eyed him from the back and studied the way his khakis skimmed his behind. He clearly was not a typical dough-bodied attorney. Jenna found herself wanting to confirm that first hand. No, she couldn't let herself do that. She headed toward the bathroom and gathered her robe along the way. A shower should bring her back to reality. And the reality was that Brad Tremaine was up to no good. A snake didn't cuddle up to you because he thought you were irresistible. Jenna felt more clear-headed after her shower. By the time she dressed herself in jeans, a fresh tank top, and a black blazer, she felt more like herself. The kiss had been a surreal, one-time event. Maybe she'd even imagined it. Memories were notoriously unreliable.

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When she stepped back outside, the gleam of her freshly-washed car taunted her and dared her to forget what had happened that morning. She climbed in and checked her errand list to anchor her mind to mundane real life. She caught herself humming "I'm Not In Love" at the first stop light. Staying grounded was going to be harder than she thought.

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Chapter Four

Despite its size, Jenna's office looked austere compared to those of her colleagues. The only items hanging on the wall were her diplomas. Her desk, table, and bookcase were filled with files and papers in neat stacks. Her office barely hinted at Jenna's life outside the firm. Maybe because she didn't have a life outside the firm. It had been years since Jenna had a date thanks to endless hours of client development, associate training, bar activities, and of course, the actual work her clients paid her to do. It wasn't something that had bothered her much once she got used to it. She didn't think much about what she was missing because, frankly, her everyday life didn't bring her into contact with anyone that interesting. Until Brad, of course. She didn't need that kind of disruption right now, certainly not from him. She had to remind herself that he was the enemy, not to be entrusted with the firm she helped build. There was no room for the heart when it came to business. Her ringing phone drew her attention. "Hey, Jenna! Has Biglaw gulped your firm yet?" 32

Jenna smiled at the sound of Kate's voice. "Not yet, thank God," Jenna said as she sank into her chair and kicked off her highheeled shoes. Jenna heard an unladylike snort through the phone. "Maybe you should take the next week off, go into hiding." "I like the way you think." Talking with Kate always soothed Jenna. Kate had mentored Jenna the first two years of her career and they had been close friends ever since. "Jen, hon, I mean this in the best possible way, but why do you still put up with Dave and Glen? Just because you started your career with them doesn't mean you need to stay with them. People change, you know. They sure did." Jenna sighed. "I don't know. Loyalty, I guess? I hate change. Maybe that's why I voted against the merger. What if I'm wrong? What if it really is the best thing for the firm?" "You know it isn't. Trust your instincts. You told me last time you didn't have enough information to say yes. It's like a marriage -- if you don't have a really good reason to say yes, then say no." Jenna's spirits perked up at Kate's supportive words. "Ha, marriage advice coming from the perpetual bachelorette." "You know it. Hey, I have to go to a meeting. Oh joy. Want to meet for drinks tonight and commiserate some more?" "Sure thing." Jenna scribbled the time and place in her calendar and hung up the

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phone in a considerably lighter mood. Her good mood evaporated a minute later when she heard a sharp tap on her open office door. Brad stood in the doorway, leaning against the frame with his hands in his pockets. He looked entirely too comfortable, as if he already owned the place. "Do you have a moment to talk?" Jenna's mouth went dry. Damn, he was gorgeous. She didn't think there was such a thing as a handsome attorney anymore after so many years of practice, but Brad proved to be an exception . "Yes, fine, I have a moment," she said. Brad closed the office door. Jenna stared at him, then at the door. Normally people closed the door when they wanted to discuss something confidential they didn't want overheard, but when Brad closed the door Jenna felt trapped. "I'd prefer it if you kept the door open," she said. "I don't want to create any appearances of impropriety." Brad strode toward the window. "Are you afraid I'll do something improper?" After Saturday? "I'm only worried about appearances. I'm sure you understand." "What, are you worried your colleagues will think I'm ravishing you on your desk right now?" Heat crept up Jenna's face. His smile was positively wolfish, and despite her better judgment, she found herself checking him out. She reminded herself to keep her face neutral and not reveal even an inkling of her thoughts. It didn't help that her mind immediately flew to their kiss. Brad might have been dressed in formal office wear, but

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she remembered how the body underneath the clothes felt pressed against her. The crisp cotton of his shirt draped over the broad slope of his chest and the width of his shoulders. Brad looked far too put together. She wondered how he would look with his tie loosened just so, his shirt untucked and unbuttoned, his belt-"Look," Brad said, "I know you're still worried. You've made that perfectly clear. I want to do what I can to answer your questions." Jenna's shoved the weekend out of her mind and forced herself to concentrate on the present. "Your advance team already killed a lot of that by ignoring my concerns," Jenna said. " I thought in this day and age, your firm would realize female attorneys actually had a voice in major decisions, but I guess not." "I sincerely apologize for the oversight," Brad said. "I promise it has nothing to do with you being female. If it'll make you feel better, I'll handle any questions you have myself, personally. Does that help?" Personal service. He sounded sincere, but Jenna still eyed him warily. "Would it help if you came to Washington?" he asked. "What do you mean?" "You're still not convinced our firms would be a good fit. I think if you come to my office and meet people in person, see what we're like, you'll change your mind." Jenna wanted to say no, but what Brad offered made sense. Her questions couldn't be answered with slick presentations and spreadsheets. She needed to see the place for

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herself. "Fine. I can be there on Thursday. I know we're on a short timeline." "You can contact my secretary to make the arrangements." Brad said. "I promise once you visit us, you'll say yes to the merger." "Anyone can make promises. I'll wait and see what happens. Now if you'll excuse me, I have some calls to make." She didn't really, but she wanted him out of her office, now, before she gave in to the temptation to grab him and use her desk in ways it was never meant to be used. He was trouble, and Jenna didn't like the feeling of being drawn to someone who only could create problems for her. She sat behind her desk, bent her head over a file and started working, pointedly ignoring Brad. It was the only thing she could do to stop the pounding in her heart. The next time she looked up, he was gone. Good, he took the hint. She'd made it clear she didn't want to talk to him. So why did she feel so depressed?

****

This is going to be harder than I thought. As Brad drove back to his hotel, he mulled over everything he knew about Jenna to figure out his next move. He knew she was cool and no-nonsense, but that was a given. What lawyer wasn't? He had hoped checking out her office would give him some clues on what he could

36

use as leverage. Normally he could tell a lot about who he was dealing with by the things he or she kept in the office given the amount of time they spent in there, but Jenna's office revealed absolutely nothing. Every book was a law book, every item on the wall was a diploma or certificate. Who was she? He wanted to figure her out. He thought hard as he turned into the hotel parking lot and tried to remember any other details from her office. As he headed toward the hotel lobby, he remembered something else, something that seemed out of place but not worth thinking about at the time. She had a toy car, a model of her convertible sitting on her desk. At first, he thought it was just another widget from a client, but it was on her desk, not her bookcase like the other items. What did she say about her car? She'd called it her security blanket. The toy was probably a way she could keep her car close to her when she wasn't driving it. She wasn't as tough as she seemed. He already knew that, of course. He remembered the joy in her face while she was driving Friday night. Her enthusiasm was contagious. And she was anything but tough when he'd kissed her on Saturday. This kiss might have started as a calculated move on his part, but her heated response changed all that. He was supposed to soften her up so she would sign the deal. He wasn't supposed to . . . like her. The lower half of his body tightened. He walked faster down the hall, ready for a cold shower. Or some other kind of relief. He checked his watch, wondering if he had enough time before leaving for the airport.

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He didn't know how he was going to deal with Jenna when she arrived in Washington, but at least she would be on his own turf. He'd be in control there. He hoped. .

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Chapter Five

Jenna loved the food at Forest Grill, but she hated it was in Birmingham, Dave's stomping grounds. The neighborhood was home to richly-dressed residents and fancy stores out of place among Detroit’s auto repair shops, chain restaurants, and strip malls. Jenna and Kate sat at a table in the corner next to one of the floor-to-ceiling windows, a quiet oasis away from the crush of people at the bar. "Think the one in the red dress has had work done?" Kate asked. Jenna squinted A rail-thin woman gripped a martini glass in one hand and smiled at the gentleman next to her. "I can't tell from here," Jenna said. She stared at her water glass and stirred, mesmerized by the twirling ice cubes. "Yoo hoo, earth to Jenna." Kate waved a manicured hand in Jenna's face. "You've been a million miles away. The merger still eating at you?" Even though she'd introduced Brad to Kate the night before, she didn't want to bring him up. She knew what direction Kate would go if they talked about him. Fending off the merger was stressful enough. She didn't need to add Kate's continued interest in fixing Jenna up to the mix. 39

"Hey, after meeting Brad the other night, I did some due diligence on him. Look what I found." Kate dug into her cavernous raspberry leather tote and pulled out her iPad. She tapped it with her finger, then handed it to Jenna. "What's this?" she asked. "DC Ambassador Magazine from four months ago. I love Google, don't you?" Jenna looked at the top page. "DC's Most Eligible Singles." Her heart sank. She really couldn't handle any more surprises today. "Look who's on page 26." Jenna reluctantly scrolled until she found the right page. Even on a screen, Brad looked stunning. He was perched on a stool with a stack of law books beside him, his tall body posed casually in a sport coat and slacks. He had a confident, relaxed smile on his face. Out of curiosity, she skimmed the article. Brad was 36 years old, went to law school at Georgetown, ran the law firm started by his grandfather, and enjoyed cooking, bicycling, classic rock, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Jenna snorted. The only thing the article left out was he enjoyed sunsets and walks on the beach. Otherwise, he was the perfect Stepford single. Her reading was interrupted by the waiter placing a dish of fried calamari between them. "Why are you showing me this?" Jenna said. Kate winked. "I'm only looking out for your happiness. You never know, this Mr. Tremaine might be Mr. Right."

40

Jenna rolled her eyes. Kate was dreaming if she thought Brad was remotely the right one for her. "Have you forgotten why he's here in the first place? He's trying to buy us out. He's not exactly my friend at the moment." "Lots of love matches started with the people hating each other," Kate said. Jenna had to give Kate credit for her persistence. Kate was a hopeful romantic. "You're dreaming," Jenna said. "One, he's in DC and I'm stuck here. Two, he's a hotshot Biglaw attorney and I don't want anything to do with that life. Three, he looks like a GQ model and I…" Her voice trailed off. It wasn't something she ever liked to admit aloud, but she knew Kate was astute enough to understand what she meant. Jenna had never been comfortable with her looks. She'd always hated her stick-straight hair that could never hold the waves that made other girls look feminine and sexy. Jenna thought she looked like a tomboy. So instead of acting flirtatious, she decided to be competent at school and in her work. If she couldn't attract the boys, she might as well beat them instead. Kate poked a fork into the calamari. "Jen, you've got to get over this plain Jane complex of yours," she said. "How long has it been since you've gone out on a date?" "No comment." “Five years, maybe six? I think it was about the time you started the firm. You don't need to give up a life to have a career, you know." "Kate, get real. Look at what we do. We're lawyers. We're supposed to be available for our clients 24/7. How many lawyers do you know who have a life outside of work?"

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Kate tilted her head, a sympathetic look on her face. "Yeah, I know what you mean. We clients can be a real pain in the butt." She grinned. "But then that's even more reason to grab opportunities when they appear." "Opportunities are opportunities only if you want them," Jenna said. "I'm not sure I want this one." "Which one, the firm merger or the gorgeous Mr. Tremaine?" "Both." Jenna swirled her wine glass. She felt drained and confused, and she hated it. Kate raised her own glass. "Let's at least toast to opportunities. Even the ones you think you don't want." Jenna managed a smile and clinked her glass against Kate's, took a sip, then after a moment's hesitation drained half the glass. The alcohol flooded her veins, warm and soothing. The light-headedness that followed was a welcome relief. Kate poured her more wine. "Here, you need this more than I do” "What would you do if you were in my shoes?" Jenna asked. "I know you said you thought the merger might be a good idea." "But you're not convinced." "No. I'm scared to hand the firm to someone I don't know. I feel like I'm losing control over my baby." The waiter interrupted them, setting a plate of duck confit with lentils in front of Jenna and seared scallops with black rice and beurre blanc in front of Kate. Despite the headaches, working hard definitely had its rewards.

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"Did I tell you Dave sent me an invoice on a deal I'd never heard of? He said it was an accounting glitch." Jenna cringed. Kate was not only one of her clients, she was responsible for bringing in almost a third of the firm's revenue. If she wasn't happy, it could be serious. "Ugh, sorry about that. Dave or I probably filled out a form wrong. I promise it won't happen again." Kate must have sensed Jenna's discomfort because she laughed and gave Jenna's shoulder a friendly pat. "You worry way too much," she said. "I'm not going to pull my work because of it. Besides, all the invoices for business deals go to my boss for approval, but he gets too busy to review them all. I just thought you'd like to know." "Thanks," Jenna said, relieved. Kate was right. She really did need the extra wine if an innocuous comment made her so jumpy. "I've been meaning to ask you, why are you still with Dave and Glen? I've been wondering that for a while, but I don't think we've ever really talked about it." Jenna shrugged. It wasn't something she liked to talk about, or even think about. At times, she felt like she was in a long-term relationship that started out promising but was going steadily south. Like so many endeavors, Jenna started the firm with Dave and Glen because it seemed like a good idea at the time. They had clerked at the same firm during law school and ended up working together after graduation, developing the kind of friendship cemented by shared misery through the long hours meeting the demands of the partners. Even though Jenna knew she had little in common with Dave and Glen on

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a personal level, she soon found they shared a frustration with the way the partners ran the firm and handled the work. Starting their own firm was an easy decision. Dave had a business background and knew how to manage the firm finances and operations. Glen knew how to do the actual work. Jenna had the crucial talent for getting the clients they needed to survive. Their little firm grew faster and wealthier than they had ever dreamed, and the success was even sweeter because they owned the place. Being partners was more meaningful when their own initials were on the letterhead. Unfortunately, Jenna saw Dave and Glen slowly turn into the type of partners they had escaped from years ago. She wondered whether she herself was changing in the same way. She hoped not. She knew she smiled less than she used to, but maybe that was simply a part of growing up and being responsible. "They handle all the stuff I don't want to do," Jenna finally admitted. "Dave runs the firm and Glen cranks out more work than anyone to bring in revenue. Without them, I'd have to do it all myself." "And how's that working for you?" Jenna sighed. " You of all people should know it's just a job. If it were fun, they wouldn't call it work, right? Besides, the money's too good and I have people who depend on me. It's not like I can do anything I want anymore." "That hasn't stopped Dave from doing whatever he feels like. Let me see, last year you told me how Dave used the firm's offices after hours as a phone bank for his own election campaign. Glen's cheating on his wife with one of the associates—"

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Jenna gasped. "What?" "—who's also married. You didn't know that? It's the worst-kept secret in the local bar." Jenna felt embarrassed. She had become so detached from her partners she didn't know what was going on in her own firm. Her partners really had changed. That didn't mean she was ready to bail on everything she had worked so hard to build. "Seriously? I would tell them I need more time to think about the deal, then lock Brad into a hotel room and do things to him that are still illegal in Southern states." Jenna laughed, knowing Kate was likely telling the truth. By the time the dessert menu came, all thoughts of the merger disappeared. She would think about it tomorrow. For now, she would focus on enjoying time with her friend, someone with whom she could drop her guard and not have to worry about agendas or motives. She was tired of having to wonder what someone wanted from her, whether what she said would be used against her. It felt nice to be herself for a few hours. She wished she could feel that way more often.

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Chapter Six

The next morning, Jenna was the first to arrive at the office. She unlocked the door and flipped on the lights in the lobby, then stood as if seeing it for the first time. Dave's extravagant tastes were displayed everywhere, from the polished granite floor to the abstract marble statues flanking the door. Jenna shook her head and made a beeline for the kitchen. Caffeine was a guaranteed mood lifter. When she turned on the light in the kitchen, she groaned. A gleaming new espresso machine crowded the regular coffee maker into a back corner. She didn't remember anyone telling her about a new machine, especially one that looked like it belonged at Starbucks. "You've got to be kidding me," she grumbled. She grabbed the machine with both hands and shoved it over. It hit the side of the refrigerator with a satisfying thunk, and then she pulled the regular coffee maker where she could reach it. When she was safely cocooned in her office, she pulled a file from a foot-high stack on her desk. She flipped it open, grateful to see pictures of an engine valve instead of a spreadsheet or business plan. Valves were easier to understand than mergers. And men. 46

A knock on the door disturbed her concentration. Before Jenna could say anything, Dave breezed in and plopped into a chair. "Come in, Dave, make yourself at home," Jenna said. She didn't expect Dave to catch her sarcasm. He never did. She wasn't normally rude, but she'd disposed of many of the office niceties with him years ago when he'd lost his temper and threw a binder in her office, missing her head by a foot. The outburst wasn't even over anything important, just a disagreement on whether a minor court case required changes in the firm's practices. The foot-long scuff was still there. Jenna hadn't bothered to paint over it. "I talked to Brad last night about how to keep this deal moving." Jenna's expression didn't change, but she felt anger rise inside her. True to form, Dave had gone behind her back to push his own agenda. Jenna wondered what else he was plotting. She was surprised at how calm he seemed. "He said he was disappointed with the way you didn't vote in step with us. We had all assumed it was a done deal." "You assumed wrong." Dave seemed nonplussed. "He said he was willing to give us another week to answer any questions we have. Since you seem to be the only one with reservations, we'll leave it in your hands. You can call the shots for now." How generous, considering she was a managing partner just like them. She pressed her lips together to stop herself from making a smart-ass comment. "Also, if you're still not convinced the merger is the best thing for our firm, then

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Glen and I will drop the issue. By the way, Brad said something about having you go to DC. I told him you'd be free." "Dave, stop speaking for me," Jenna said. "You obviously weren't listening to him too carefully. I booked my flight. I'll be there Thursday and Friday." "Sorry, I didn't realized you already planned on going," Dave said with a sheepish smile. He picked up the toy car from her desk and spun the wheels. "This is great, really great. Go there and find out whatever you need, but tread carefully. Don't ask them questions that could piss them off. We don't want to jeopardize the deal this late in the game. Not that I think you will, but, you know—" "Whatever, I'll handle it." She wished Dave would quit talking down to her. Thank goodness Glen stayed in his office cranking out work. He was easier to deal with that way. After Dave left her office, she waited for a few seconds to make sure he was out of sight. Then she opened her bottom desk drawer and took out a bottle of spray cleaner and a roll of paper towels. She misted a paper towel with cleaner and walked to the table where Dave had left her car and wiped it with gentle strokes. She placed it on the corner of the desk closest to her, making it impossible for someone to casually pick it up without bumping her arm. She needed to figure out her approach so she could analyze Brad objectively without her body's distracting response getting in the way. Jenna told herself it was momentary lust, nothing more than that, an involuntary response to a stimulus. She hated how her body kept betraying her. She wondered if there was a drug that could

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turn off her libido like a light switch. Maybe the concept was even patentable. It sure would have made her current life more manageable. Veronica, her secretary, stepped into Jenna's office. "Dave said you are going out of town to meet Mr. Tremaine. He said he already told you about it." Yeah, he told her all right, as opposed to asking her. As if he controlled what she did. Veronica's voice dropped to a conspiratorial whisper. "I know it's not an appropriate thing to say, but he's such a hunk! Is he related to that Tremaine & Cole firm you're working with?" "He's that Mr. Tremaine," Jenna said. "Oh, I see. Now I really hope we join their firm. We need some eye candy in this joint." Jenna's mouth twisted into a wry smile. First Kate, now Veronica. "I'll remember that," she said. She didn't feel like saying anything more, and she certainly didn't feel like letting Veronica know she agreed with her assessment of Brad. Jenna was all too aware of how quickly the gossip mill worked at her own firm, and she had counteracted that by keeping a wall between her personal and professional lives. Of course, that also meant she was clueless about the personal details of the people she worked with, with the Glen/associate affair being Exhibit A. She knew most of the people who worked there didn't even know whether Jenna was in a relationship, although she figured that the lack of a ring on her left hand displayed her single status like a billboard.

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"Are you going to see him again?" Veronica asked. "Yes," she said. "Brad is giving me only a week to investigate and make up my mind, so I'll probably have to see him a few times more." "Lucky you," Veronica said with a knowing smile. "It's not like that." "You never know."

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Chapter Seven

The 12-story building took up an entire block near the Farragut North metro stop in Washington, DC. Jenna checked the address on Brad's business card, then walked down the block searching for the front door. She found a bank of glass doors and a discreet sign that read, "Tremaine & Cole" on the wall. "Here goes nothing," she said and pulled open the door. When she reached the wood-paneled lobby, she gave the receptionist her name, then glanced around. An oil painting of two distinguished-looking men, obviously Brad's grandfather and Mr. Cole, hung on the wall near a cluster of plush leather chairs. Jenna was about to sink into one of the chairs when she heard a deep voice calling down the hallway. "You rang?" Brad said. Jenna's heart did a little flip when he saw him striding toward her. He extended a hand, which Jenna shook and let go quickly. "Good to see you again," she said. Three days without seeing him was definitely too long. Brad looked as handsome as ever, and seeing him at his own firm gave him a distinguished aura. Jenna was 51

surprised he wasn't wearing a suit or tie. Instead, Brad wore a navy sport jacket over a pale blue shirt and khakis. He looked even more authoritative in his business casual wear. It suited him. "C'mon, let's find a conference room for you to park in," he said. He picked up Jenna's computer bag and led her to a bank of frosted glass doors, each with a small computer screen next to it. The screen indicated whether the room was open or occupied. "Wow, you're pretty high-tech here," Jenna said. "Yeah, I know it looks a little Star-Trekky," Brad said. "Blame that on Mr. Cole. He loves his gadgets. It actually works really well for scheduling rooms, so it's not all for show." Brad pulled open the shades and flooded the room with sunlight. "I don't know about you, but I like natural light better when I can get it." "I'm ready to start," she said. "Who should I talk to first?" "I want you to meet Lyon Mahoney. She's the best person to talk to if you want to know what the firm's all about. Or what I'm all about." "I take it they're the same thing?" "I think firms reflect the personalities of the owners." And Brad still wanted her firm. Did that mean he liked her personality? "You need to go down the hall, then turn left to get to Lyon' s office," Brad said. "In the meantime, you can have this conference room all day. I have a bunch of meetings, but I'll stop in to check on you when I get a break."

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"You don't need to do that." "I want to." Was it her imagination, or was Brad looking at her like he wanted to kiss her again? She wetted her lips with her tongue, a nervous gesture that drew Brad's gaze to her mouth. She glanced at the conference room table. It looked sturdy enough. Her mind flooded with images that were not work safe. She stepped away from him and unpacked her laptop. She had to do something with her hands so she wouldn't reach for him. "Down the hall, turn left," she said. "Got it." When Brad left, Jenna gathered her notepad and pen. Time to get to work.

****

Jenna strolled the quiet hallway and scanned the nameplates as she walked past each office. She stopped when she spotted "Lyon Mahoney." The first thing she noticed were the stacks of files and papers everywhere, with a narrow path connecting the door to the desk. She knocked on the doorframe, halfexpecting the vibrations to send papers tumbling. A tiny blond looked up from behind the desk. "Oh, hi!" she said. "You must be Jenna. Brad said to expect you. Come on in." Jenna took a tentative step toward a chair, which held a stack of files "I, ah—" "Oh, you can move those onto the floor."

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Jenna cleared a space to sit. "It seems like you know why I'm here, so I'll ask straight out. What can you tell me about Brad and the firm?" "I'm actually surprised Brad told you to talk to me. I'm extremely biased. I used to date his law school roommate, so you could say we're personal friends more than professional colleagues. We actually started at different firms and I was on partnership track at mine, until I got pregnant." Wow, way to cut to the chase. "Ah, I take it was unplanned?" "Yes, but we were engaged and I thought it wouldn't be a big deal. We'd be starting our family a little early, that's all. But my boyfriend left me soon after. Brad was furious at him, saying he never realized his roommate was such a coward. I was determined to make it work. Plenty of female attorneys have kids and a career, right? This is the twenty-first century after all, and I thought that old rule of 'Don't have kids until you make partner' was something from the past.'' "I've heard that too, but these days, with nine and ten year partnership tracks, that doesn't sound particularly realistic." Lyon nodded. "I know, right? But nope, the old rules were the same, and all of a sudden, I was no longer a star at the firm. The good assignments started drying up as soon as I started to show, even though I tried to hide it as much as I could. Then they let me go." "Could they do that?" Jenna asked. "Isn't that illegal?" Lyon sighed. "Technically, yes, but you know how lawyers can be. They do a lot of

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illegal stuff and get away with it because no one's willing to risk their careers by calling them out. They fired me for 'performance' reasons because I wasn't keeping up with my billable hours. Gee, it's kind of hard to keep your hours up when no one is giving you work. So, they managed to kick me out and make it look like it was my fault." "I'm so sorry," Jenna said. She regretted how trite that sounded. Even though she had initially expressed disbelief at how callously Lyon had been treated, the truth was, with Dave running the show, she could totally see that happening at her own firm. He and Glen didn't have much patience with the secretaries taking maternity leave. Jenna remembered when Glen complained about his secretary while she was on leave with her second child. "I don't know why she can't come back already," he'd said. "She gave birth three weeks ago. How hard could things be for her now? It's not like this is her first kid." Jenna had gritted her teeth and said nothing. It was not one of her more courageous moments. Luckily, they hadn't encountered a pregnant attorney yet, but Jenna wasn't confident they would have acted any differently than their old firm. That wasn't something to be proud of either. "I called Brad, the only person I could think of, and I told him what had happened," Lyon said. "It wasn't a good situation. Stuck alone, pregnant, with tons of student loans and rent to pay. Who in their right mind would hire an attorney who's seven months pregnant, right? But Brad took a chance on me. He still went through the normal hiring process at the firm, don't get me wrong, and he didn't treat me as a pity hire. He and the other attorneys looked at my work product and screened me like any other candidate,

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and then they hired me. And I've been here ever since." "That was quite generous of him, to give an opportunity like that," Jenna said. "At first I thought he did it as a favor to me because he knew me from law school. But I've been here long enough to see that the partners here really do practice what they preach. You won't hear it from Brad, because he always says treating people well is simply good business, but I think one of the things they look for in a potential partner is a good heart. I really mean that even though it sounds hokey. It's hard to get hired because they really do look at whether you're a good person. No assholes allowed. But in the end, it makes it a great place to work." "And what about mergers with other firms?" Jenna asked. Lyon's expression turned thoughtful. "I won't lie to you, some of them haven't gone well," she said. "Thanks for not glossing over that," Jenna said. "You know that giddy feeling when you've just met a guy and everything's all hearts and flowers and angels singing and you're willing to overlook that he scratches himself and hates his Mom? Well, the partners sometimes get that way when they're looking at a firm to buy." Jenna scribbled more notes, trying to process everything she'd learned. "How long are you here for?" Lyon asked. "Two days." "I hope you have time to sightsee. There's tons to do here if you don't mind dodging tourists. Brad's a great guide."

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"I was going to work in my hotel room tonight," Jenna said. "He didn't say anything about evening plans." " Seriously? What a doofus," Lyon said. Jenna wanted to laugh. She imagined what Lyon and Brad were like together, squabbling like siblings, with Lyon being the pesky younger sister that kept him honest. That image warmed Jenna's heart. Jenna reminded herself why she was here, and she was not going to be taken in by anyone's glowing comments. Lyon's story might have been compelling, but she had to step back and look at everything objectively. No one was perfect. Lyon raved about Brad because she owed her career to him. Lyon picked up the phone. "Let me call Brad." Jenna opened her mouth to protest, but Lyon was too quick. As Lyon waited for Brad to answer, Jenna wasn't even sure whether or not she wanted to see him again that day. She needed some distance from him to think. "Hey, Brad, it's Lyon. Jenna's in my office right now…" Lyon cocked her head. "I can't believe you didn't make any plans for her tonight. What kind of host are you?" The tone of her voice was joking, but Jenna could tell Lyon was also a bit annoyed. A pause. Lyon glanced over at Jenna, rolled her eyes, and covered the receiver with her hand. "At least he's suitably embarrassed," she whispered. "He's been a bit spacey lately. I don't know what's gotten into him." "He doesn't need to bother," Jenna said. "I'll be fine on my own, I can--" "What?" Lyon said into the phone. "I said she's right here. We had a nice little chat…

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no, I didn't say anything bad about you. I just told her the truth. She didn't run out of the office screaming, if that's what you're worried about." Lyon winked at Jenna. Jenna looked at the floor. A few minutes later, a tap on the open door startled Jenna. When Jenna looked up, she felt all her tiredness melt away. Brad’s disheveled look made her want to rumple him up even more. "Hey, thanks for taking care of her for me," Brad said to Lyon. Jenna knew the remark was meant to be casual, but Brad's smooth voice made it sound intimate. "Before I forget to ask, did you have any plans for tonight?" Brad asked. "Lyon tore me a new one about not arranging anything, but I didn't want to assume you were free." "I brought some files with me to review." "Jenna," Brad said, "take it from a recovering workaholic. The work can wait. How often do you get to DC?" "Not much," she said. "If I'm ever in town, I go to the Patent Office, then fly back home the same day. I don't think I've been in DC proper since I was in middle school." "We have to go out tonight, then. At least let me take you on the Mall. It's beautiful in the evening. I also know a great Italian place. We can go there and then walk to the Lincoln Memorial. Sound good?" The thought of another evening with Brad sent delicious shivers up Jenna's spine. "That sounds wonderful."

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Jenna knelt by the reflecting pool of the Lincoln Memorial and greeted a family of ducks swimming near its edge. The fading sunlight reflected off of her smooth blonde hair, which was pulled back in its customary ponytail. He remembered the silky feel of it from when he'd kissed her after washing her car. He hadn't tried to kiss her again after that. When he drove back to the hotel, he kept thinking about Dave's outrageous suggestion to "soften her up." At the time, he'd dismissed it as a sleazy maneuver. But then he had such a nice time with Jenna driving around on Friday and washing her car on Saturday. The next thing he knew, he was kissing her. Then he'd felt guilty. Was he subconsciously trying to soften Jenna up so she'd agree to the deal? Or did he kiss her for another reason? Brad stood several feet away from her. He had never felt so cautious around a woman before. He never had to. He wondered what Lyon had told Jenna about him. He hoped she hadn't said anything embarrassing. Lyon knew enough about his youthful misdeeds to fill a book. He took a deep breath and tried to cleanse the nearly pornographic images that flooded his mind. He couldn't stop wondering what she looked like underneath her clothes. He had never met a woman who messed with his imagination like Jenna. Brad became even more aware of the way she walked. When she climbed the steps toward Lincoln's statue, he was mesmerized by the sway of her hips and the way the

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faded denim molded smoothly against her thighs, which were not slender by any means but had a strong curviness that suggested an active lifestyle. A pleasant tightness surged through his body. He couldn't remember the last time he was so hungry for someone. It wasn't only her body he wanted. He wanted to know everything about her, body, mind, soul. He'd seen only glimmers of the first two and still knew nothing about the third. He looked over at Jenna, dwarfed by the massive statute of Lincoln. She studied the inscription on one of the walls. "Government of the people, by the people, for the people," Jenna read aloud. She turned to Brad. "Sounds good in theory, doesn't it?" "You think it's only a theory?" "Judging by what's on the news, yes. I don't think anyone truly has ideals anymore, I still remember the oath we had to take when we were sworn in to the bar. Plenty of lofty words, but does anyone really believe them? You can drive yourself crazy if you do." Brad had seen her kind of cynicism in so many other attorneys, yet it still saddened him. A lot of what Jenna talked about was the truth, but many of the attorneys he knew still managed to work through it. But the attorneys who burned out were the ones Brad thought the legal profession simply could not lose: the ones who really did take their obligations seriously, at least before the law firm machine either took advantage of their dedication or beat their compassion out of them. "I think cynics are failed idealists," he said. "When things don't live up to their

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ideals, they're more disappointed than someone who doesn't really care. The cynicism's a way to overcompensate for the hurt." Brad held his breath, hoping she wouldn't take offense at his remarks. To his relief, she looked thoughtful. They walked back to the reflecting pool in comfortable silence. A few minutes later, she checked her watch. "It's already 9:30. I don't want to keep you out too late on a school night." "I don't think the principal will mind if we're tardy tomorrow," Brad said. "Oh wait, I'm the principal and I say you get a permission slip to stay out late." Jenna laughed. "Thank you, kind sir. I really should get back to the hotel." She stifled a yawn. "I think I'm running on fumes." Brad hailed a cab and joined her in the backseat. He glanced over and took in the delicate lines of her profile. She closed her eyes and supported her head with her forearm, which was pressed against the window. No, the way he felt about her had nothing to do with her firm. He may have started out being nice to her because of it, but his feelings had changed into something more. He imagined what life, real life not just work life, would be like with her. Jenna was asleep by the time the taxi got to her hotel. "We're here," he whispered. She yawned and blinked a few times and looked so disoriented and vulnerable that Brad wanted to hug her then and there. "How much is the fare?" "I got it."

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"No, I'm going to expense it anyway. Seriously, how much do I owe?" She was so cute when she was being stubborn. "I said I got it. No worries." Brad handed the driver several bills, then helped Jenna out of the cab. He opened the front door for her and followed her into the lobby. "You didn't need to walk me into the hotel," she said. "I could have found my way in by myself." "I know, but I wanted to walk you in. I have a gentlemanly reputation to maintain, you know." Brad bent in an imitation of a gallant bow. Jenna snorted and laughed. "Yeah, you're such a gentleman. Then how do you explain what happened last Saturday morning?" Brad caught his breath. He had thought Jenna had brushed off that little indiscretion. Not that he had wanted her to, but she had acted so cordial, yet distant, most of the day. She'd been friendly, but it was the kind of friendliness reserved for business transactions, all politeness and small talk. Their walk to the Lincoln Memorial was the first time all day she had shared what was going on in that formidable brain of hers. And now she was bringing up the one moment Brad had tried to forget. She must really be tired. "Yeah, about that--," Brad said. Jenna flicked her hand with a dismissive wave. "Don't worry about it. I was only teasing. I still think you're a gentleman. Now, if you offered to tuck me in, I'd probably change my lofty opinion of you."

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Brad stared at her. Was she actually flirting with him? "So, which would you rather have, a gentleman or something else?" Jenna looked up at the ceiling and tapped her chin. "I've already experienced the gentleman part, so let's try something different." Brad couldn't believe his ears. He couldn't figure out the change of heart, but he wasn't about to argue. He shoved aside his niggling guilt. She started things this time, not him. The shy smile Jenna gave him as she slipped the key card into the lock made him lose any lingering doubts he had.

****

Jenna didn't know what had prompted her to invite Brad up to her room. All she knew was her exhaustion had caught up with her and her carefully maintained front slipped. With each unplanned remark, she found it harder to recover. She hadn't intended to reveal her cynical side at the Lincoln Memorial. She hadn't intended to mention the kiss from Saturday either. Somehow, Brad made her comfortable enough to be less guarded. She should have simply shut up and left him in the lobby. That was the problem with the business chess game. One wrong move, and before you knew it you were two moves away from being checkmated. Jenna had never felt such a huge conflict between what she wanted and what was

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good for her before. What on earth possessed her to smile at him when she opened the door? She could stop him right now, she knew. She could hold him off in the hallway, apologize for her judgment lapse and say goodnight. No messy entanglements, no actions she might regret that would make it awkward for her to look at him the next morning. She could handle fantasies about Brad. It was the real thing that created problems. She flipped the switch, but the light from those pesky energy-saving bulbs did nothing to take away the seductive dimness in her room. Brad followed close behind her. Shooing him out now would be extremely awkward. Not that she wanted him to leave. He was so close she could feel the warmth of his body through her clothes. Brad touched her back, so lightly she almost didn't feel his fingertips grazing the back of her T-shirt. The thin fabric gave him away, though. It was impossible for him to hide his touch through the flimsy cotton. Jenna looked down and also noticed the fabric did nothing to hide her swiftly tightening nipples. Jenna was afraid to turn around. She stood still, her back toward Brad, not wanting to move out of the secure confines of the hallway. If she did, they would be closer to the bed. "Jenna?" Brad said. His voice was low, intimate, quiet. She closed her eyes and felt the sound of his voice reverberate through her body right down to her toes. She never imagined the sound of a man's voice could create a physical reaction in her. Then again,

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she never imagined a man like Brad. "Jenna, would you like me to stay or leave?" Every cell in her body screamed for him to stay. She was tired of keeping up appearances. Brad had tempted her senses all evening. If she turned around, he would know she wanted him. "I don't want to make you uncomfortable," Brad said. "You're not making me uncomfortable," she said. She turned around and fell into his arms. His kiss was nothing like the tender one at her house. This one was rough, passionate, hungry. It scared her and thrilled her and turned her longing into a fullblown craving. Brad crushed her against his body as they fumbled and groped their way into the main room and fell on the bed. His lips never left hers. His hands ran impatiently over her body. He slipped her ponytail holder out of her hair, then fanned it around her shoulders. It was the first time he'd seen her with her hair down. He studied her face for a moment, then kissed her again, this time more gently. His touch made her ache for him even more. Jenna couldn't remember the last time she had let herself experience this kind of abandon. It was scary, like bungee-jumping, where you simply let go and let nature handle the rest. She wasn't used to letting go. She knew how to analyze and control and make all the pieces fit together neatly, whether it was in her car, her career, or her life.

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But Brad didn't fit neatly anywhere. Well, not exactly. His body fitted against hers like they were designed specifically for each other. As Brad kissed her, she was surrounded by his warmth and scent. Jenna couldn't breathe, not while she was enveloped in Brad's body. Nothing existed in the world but him, the feel of his breath against her neck, the comforting weight of his body against hers. She clutched his back as her last hold on reality slipped away. Brad rocked against her, pressing himself between her thighs, showing her in the most unmistakable way what he wanted to do with her. She felt the pulsing through the layers of cloth against the tender skin between her legs. “I want you.” She didn't realize she had said the words aloud until she heard Brad's sharp inhale. She reached for the button of her jeans, impatient to feel more of his skin against hers. Brad's fingers tangled with Jenna's as they both reached for her zipper. He didn't even wait until her jeans were halfway down her thighs before he stroked the damp lace of her panties. Jenna cried out at Brad's touch. She fumbled with his belt, then his zipper, impatient to get his pants off. Brad kicked his pants onto the floor. Jenna caught a glimpse of his erection straining against his briefs and smiled. She reveled in the power she had at the moment. He rolled back on top of her and smothered her with another deep kiss. Her tongue explored his mouth as she lost herself in the erotic sensation of him pressed against her, separated only by two layers of thin fabric. She cupped one hand against his firm buttocks, a silent encouragement. His shaky breathing and the

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motion of his hips left no doubt what they both wanted. Brad shifted his weight so he was lying on his side. Jenna held her breath as his hand smoothed up her thigh and skimmed over her panties. Her gaze never left his while he delicately pushed the fabric aside and ran a finger lightly over her wetness, barely touching her. Jenna's eyelids fluttered closed. Her hips moved and begged him to touch her more deeply. If this night was the only night she ever had with Brad, it would be enough. Being able to experience such a man, even only once, was something she never dreamed would happen to someone like her. All she wanted at that moment was to feel. Her phone rang. The tinny noise sliced through the passionate fog in Jenna's mind. She could feel the mood evaporating. "Ignore it," Brad said, pressing his lips against her forehead. She closed her eyes and concentrated on his touch, his kisses-Her phone rang again. Jenna muttered a curse and reached for it. Brad rolled onto his back with a frustrated sigh. "Hello?" "It's Glen. How are things going in DC? Any more news on Brad and the deal?" What the hell? "You're calling me at ten at night to ask me that?" "Whoa, I didn't mean to piss you off. You okay?" Jenna shut her eyes and silently counted to five. It wasn't Glen's fault he was socially awkward. "I'm sorry, Glen, it's just been a busy day and I'm tired." "Is Brad with you? I hope he was able to help out."

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Nosy bastard. She looked over at Brad, who was tucking his shirt into his waistband. He didn't look any happier than she felt. "Yes, he's helping me. We'll talk later." "But—" "Glen, no buts. I have to go." She hung up without waiting for Glen to say goodbye. Brad, to his credit, said nothing. Glen's call was like a bucket of ice water thrown on both of them. Maybe she should thank him, she thought ruefully. Things were going a bit fast, and this wasn't something she should rush into, really. Jenna could feel the chill descend even as Brad stood behind her and wrapped his arms around her waist. "It's getting late," Jenna said. "Yeah, I think I better go." Brad ran his fingers through his hair. An awkward silence hung between them. Jenna avoided looking at the king-sized bed. "Thanks for a great evening. I really enjoyed it," Jenna said. She hated how formal her voice sounded. It was something she would say to a potential client, not to someone she was rolling in bed with a few minutes earlier. It felt safer to retreat into professional mode. "Yeah, I did too." Brad seemed to be as much as a loss for words as she was. He hesitated for a moment, then stepped over and kissed her softly on the lips. She didn't move.

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"No regrets?" he asked. Jenna shook her head and managed a small smile. Brad's face relaxed. "Me neither. I'll see you in the morning. Ask for me at the reception desk like you did today and I'll come get you." Jenna followed him toward the door. She held the door open for him. He gave her one last kiss on her cheek before he left. Jenna gently closed the door and flipped the deadbolt, then leaned back and slid down to the floor. She eyed the bed, its messiness confirming what had just happened. If Glen hadn't called, she didn't know how far things would have gone. She admitted she wouldn't have said no to him. She hoped in the harsh glare of daylight, the right decision would be clear. It would be a huge mistake to get involved with Brad. She should simply go to his firm, do her research, pretend nothing happened, then go home. Her body still thrummed with unreleased tension. She walked to the bed, then grabbed a pillow and hugged it against her body. It was a poor substitute, but it would have to do.

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Chapter Eight

The early morning sky was the same blue-purple of her eyes. Brad cradled a coffee mug in his hands and stared out the window. He'd been at the office for over an hour, but he hadn't billed a single minute. He needed the coffee that day. Jenna had invaded his dreams all night, tantalizing him with memories of what had happened in her hotel room. His imagination took things further, teasing him with scenarios that weren't interrupted by the phone. Brad slid his chair closer to desk, grateful for the coverage it provided. He checked his calendar and realized he had a meeting in two minutes. When he stood up, he realized that he would have to hold his files in front of him when he left his office. No, that clearly wasn't going to work. He sat back down again, trapped. There wasn't time to wait it out. He tried to think of the Uniform Commercial Code, securities regulations, the most unsexy things he could imagine. It didn't work. With a sigh, he dialed the teleconference number for the meeting, hoping no one would notice he was only down the hall. 70

****

Brad's secretary looked at Jenna much like a mother looking over a potential date for her son. "Brad stepped out for a few minutes, but he said you can wait for him in his office." Jenna nodded. Even the sound of his name gave her chills now. She had forced herself to keep last night out of her mind by focusing on her research, but hearing his name flooded her mind with memories of Brad's lips on hers, the feel of his warm hands on her bare skin. Jenna felt a surge of excitement, as if she were a high school girl invited to see a crush's home. She immediately told herself to stop being silly. She unloaded her laptop bag on the floor, grateful to shed its weight. She always felt like a pack mule when she carried both her computer and her tote bag. She studied the office for clues into Brad's personality. It embarrassed her a little to want to learn so much more about Brad, but he intrigued her, and not only because his kisses made her insides turn to water. She thought of his obvious idealism, his willingness to say aloud what she secretly hoped was true about work, about people in general. Why could he hang on to that kind of positive attitude while she couldn't? Maybe Brad was right when he said cynics were failed idealists. Maybe that was her. Brad only had three things on his wall: a law diploma from Harvard, an

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undergraduate diploma from Georgetown, and a large framed photograph of rock formations that looked like a group of exotic popsicles, with bands of dark orange, red, and cream encircling each ridged spire. The caption at the bottom of the picture read "Bryce Canyon, Utah, 2004." So he was a nature lover Her phone rang. She checked the incoming number and rolled her eyes. "Hello, Glen," she said, sitting in a guest chair. "Is now a better time?" "Considering it's during normal business hours, yes." She heard his chair creak. She imagined Glen shifting his body backwards in the chair, his arms stretched over his head and his feet on his desk. That was his usual pose when he was talking with another person. Jenna thought it was his way of taking up as much visual space as possible, just in case there was any doubt who was in authority. "Are you finding what you need? Are you going to vote yes on the deal?" "Everyone here's been very helpful. I don't know yet." "Come on, let's get this thing moving so we can get profits per partner up. If we can't do that, what are we in business for?" Jenna winced, thankful they were speaking over the phone so Glen couldn't see her. "I thought we were in the business to help our clients." Glen laughed. "Oh, Jenna, sometimes you're so naive it’s cute," he said. "I'm never sure if you believe some of the things you say because they're so idealistic. But hey, that's why we keep you around. You keep us honest." Jenna wasn't sure if that was supposed to be a backhanded compliment. Sure, some

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of the stuff she said at management meetings verged on being pie-in-the-sky, but she had to counteract the constant sinking feeling she was the only one who still believed it was possible to be a lawyer without turning into a jackass. "You don't 'keep me around.' If anything, I keep you around because I can't do all the client work myself." "Whoa, easy there. It was a joke." "I'm not laughing." Jenna spotted Brad in the doorway. "Look, I have to go. Bye." She hung up the phone. "Glen again?" he asked. "Who else?" She walked toward him with her arms open, then caught herself. They were at his office. Not the most appropriate place for the kind of hug she envisioned. Brad quickly slid behind his desk. Jenna wondered whether he was trying to put some distance between them. Did he regret last night after all? "I checked all the conference rooms. They're occupied for the day," he said. "Where should I work then?" "You can use my guest table over there. I don't think you'll be in my office much." He pushed a list of names across the desk. "More people to talk to. Knock yourself out." "Wow, that's quite a list." "There won't be enough time to meet everyone. You can pick and choose. Make sure to talk to some secretaries. They know everything, more than many of the attorneys do." She studied the list closer. "I'm amazed you can trust so many people to talk to me."

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"It's important to me that you get an honest picture of the firm. Good, bad, I want you to know everything. I want you to be absolutely comfortable with me." Jenna looked up from the list. "You?" "I meant 'us,' 'Us' as in the firm." He made a strangled noise. "You know what I mean." Jenna couldn't help smiling. "Yes," she said as she stood up. "Yes, I believe I do."

****

The rest of the day turned out to be rather educational, if uneventful. After interviewing six more attorneys, two paralegals, and three secretaries, she decided Brad was the real deal. Merging with Tremaine & Cole would, on paper, be a good idea. That didn't mean she wanted it to happen,. She still had to think about it. Recheck the numbers. Re-review the contract. And think about it some more. At the end of the day, Jenna returned to Brad's office. "Ready to go home?" he asked. "I can drive you to the airport." "I suppose," she said, lost in thought. "Ready to vote yes on the merger?" "Honestly, I still don't know, and I feel like I should. I don't think more information's going to help." Brad frowned, rubbing his chin. "I can't help you there. I'm biased. What do your feelings say?"

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I believe in you. You're everything I've ever wanted. "I don't trust my feelings. I'm afraid it will lead me to the wrong decisions." "How do you mean?" " I'm terrified of making mistakes. Like the other day, when Kate mentioned some wonky invoices Dave sent her for stuff she didn't recognize. I immediately felt I'd lose Kate as a client, or I'd never find a job ever again and become a bag lady. It didn't matter that it was Dave's mistake, not mine. I had to remind myself it was only a mistake, not the end of the world." "What does that have to do with not trusting your feelings?" "I also got a weird feeling, only for a second, that it was more than an accounting mistake. Typical lawyer paranoia. It was so far-fetched I knew my feelings were wrong. I helped set up our accounting system. So you see, none of my feelings made rational sense. I trust facts, not feelings." "I don't know about you, but for me, every wrong decision I've made was when I let my brain override my feelings. It is possible to over think things, you know." "Are you sure you're a lawyer? I don't think I've ever met a lawyer who thought over thinking anything was possible." "Call me a unique breed," he said. "It's important to do your homework, no doubt about that, but there are times when your gut will tell you things your brain would rather ignore. Do that enough times, and you can talk yourself right into a bad decision. Or out of a good one. Like joining a certain DC firm." "You're not going to give up until I say yes, are you?"

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"No, I'm not," Brad said, "which is why I'm not going to leave you alone until I get the answer I want . My offer to drive you to the airport isn't all altruistic. I'm going to take advantage of every minute you're here to persuade you." Jenna stood up and hoisted her computer bag over her shoulder. "I wouldn't expect anything else. Shall we go?"

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Chapter Nine

The wheels spun in Jenna's head during the ride to the airport. She had always been proud of her lawyer's brain, thriving on logical thought and not succumbing to the irrational emotions that drove most human behavior. She had thought she was above that. Brad proved she wasn't. He was downright addictive. Jenna was thankful he lived a thousand miles away from her. She feared with Brad, there was no such thing as moderation. His kisses proved she couldn't have him in her personal life and still function. No matter how wonderful he was, that kind of living was not meant for her. She obsessed too much and managed to turn love, which was supposed to be a healthy, human emotion, into something crazy. She didn't want to put herself through that. Her heart rebelled. Isn't he worth the risk? Brad pulled up to the curb, directly in front of the entrance to Jenna's airline. He put the car in park. "There you go. Curbside service." Jenna didn't move from her seat. Even though she wanted to get out of the car, her body ignored her brain's commands to open the door. "Thanks for driving me," Jenna said. She felt like she was buying extra seconds with 77

small talk. "Not a problem." A few more seconds passed. Jenna looked down at Brad's hands resting on the steering wheel. They looked so innocent and harmless, but she knew just how adventurous those hands were. She shivered at the memory of how his fingers had played her body. "Thanks for setting up this trip, too, and for arranging the meetings and dinner and showing me around. It was rather enlightening." She knew she was babbling, but she didn't want to say what really weighed on her mind. What about last night? When will I see you again? "You don't have to thank me for every little thing," he said with a laugh. "I learned a lot too. More than I bargained for." Brad unlocked the doors, but didn't get out. He shot a furtive glance at Jenna, then plucked at his pants leg. His confident veneer disappeared. Jenna's breath caught in her throat. She could handle an arrogant Brad, an overbearing Brad, but not this. When he finally looked up, their eyes locked. He looked as unhappy as she felt. She checked the dashboard clock, breaking the spell. They were out of time. "I'd better go. There's no telling how long the security line will be." "Good idea. I'll help you with your bags." Brad reached for the trunk lever. Jenna breathed a sigh of relief. She was one step closer to escaping with her brain somewhat intact.

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He hoisted her luggage out of the trunk and set it on the curb. Jenna rummaged through her purse for her boarding pass. "Got it," she said. "Brad, I—" Brad pulled her against him and covered her mouth with his. Her boarding pass fluttered to the ground. His kiss was gentle at first, with his lips softly brushing hers and his hand cradling the back of her head. Jenna's lips melted into his, then parted, inviting him to explore deeper. The remaining rational part of her brain observed she was powerless to stop herself from turning into a wanton creature at Brad's touch. Even in broad daylight, all sense of shyness evaporated with his kiss. Her entire body felt like it was on fire. "Stay with me," Brad whispered in her ear. His fingers were tangled in her hair, his voice a hoarse growl, rough with restrained passion. "Please, don't go. I need you so much. Stay with me." "Yes." The word escaped past her brain through her lips. Brad kissed her again, convincing Jenna self-control was overrated.

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Chapter Ten

Brad checked the horizon, then his rear view mirror, before he stomped on the gas. The last thing he needed was to get pulled over and waste precious minutes explaining to the police officer why he was speeding with a raging hard-on. Brad kept his eyes glued to the road. If he looked at Jenna, he'd have to pull over and ravish her right there. The feel of her smooth, cool fingertips in his own already made it tough to drive safely. He had never felt such a pressing need for a woman before. Ever since he met Jenna, it seemed that need became more urgent every time he drove. He sped past the next two cars. One more exit, a few more miles, and then they'd be home. Each mile crept by, prolonging his agony. When Brad finally reached his townhouse, he threw the car into park, and hurried out. He circled to the passenger side to let Jenna out. She clung to his arm as he fumbled with his house keys. He missed the lock four times before he managed to open the door. When they stepped inside, their lips met before he even shut the door. Once the door closed, Brad pinned Jenna against it and kissed her while he reached to lock the dead bolt. 80

He buried his face in her neck, breathing in her spicy perfume. He wished he could kiss her entire body at once. He held her face in his hands and teased her mouth open with his tongue, delighting in the way her body melted against him. She was no longer the ice queen. He knew that. He managed to crack her shell last night, but it wasn't enough for Brad. He wanted to shatter it, make it so she couldn't hide herself from him ever again. Brad's lips never left Jenna's as he slipped her suit jacket off and threw it toward the living room. He pressed his erection against her thigh, showing her how much she affected him. The friction of fabric against his manhood tortured him even more. Jenna broke their kiss and fumbled with the buttons on his shirt. "Brad," she murmured. "What?" "Nothing. I just like saying your name. I like the way it sounds." Brad felt his words stick in his throat. The reverence in her voice made him feel unworthy. "I like the way you say my name," he said. . He kissed her again, more tenderly this time. Her arms wrapped around his waist and held him against her. Her soft breasts against his chest made him curse all the layers of clothes between them He reached around and unzipped her skirt, letting it fall to the floor. In the August heat, she didn't bother with nylons, so she was left in her sleeveless silk shell and panties. He silently thanked the muggy DC summers. "You still have too many clothes on," Brad whispered, slipping his hands under her

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shirt. He deftly unhooked her bra and tugged the straps through the armholes. He pulled her bra out from under her shift and threw it in the same direction as her jacket. "Much better," he said. He looked down and studied the way her nipples were outlined by the silk blouse. He brushed the back of his fingers against one. Jenna gasped and tightened her fingers around his waist. He lifted her shell over her head, then bent to draw one nipple into his mouth. Jenna's cry enflamed him even more. He caressed the other breast as he licked the pebble-hard bud with the tip of his tongue, then pressed his open mouth against the smooth softness. He resisted the urge to slip his hand between her thighs. Patience, he told himself. Patience. His lips returned to Jenna's. He needed to pace himself or else it would be over before it started. And they were still in his foyer. He stepped out of the clothes they had shed, and held Jenna at arm's length, taking in every curve of her body. He would never be able to look at her the same way again, not after seeing every detail of her high, full breasts, her slim waist and hips, and every inch of those killer legs. "You're so beautiful," he whispered. He knew it sounded like a cliché, but words were simply inadequate. Jenna blushed, and the blush did go all the way down to her breasts. "Thank you," she said. Brad watched with fascination as she sank to her knees in front of him, then inhaled sharply as he realized what she was about to do. He didn't want to close his eyes. He wanted to take in every second of watching Jenna, his

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beautiful Jenna, do what he had only imagined in his dreams. Jenna's eyes never left his as she stroked him through the thin fabric of his briefs, making his knees feel like they were going to give way. She slipped the waistband down an inch, freeing the tip of his penis. Brad groaned as she stroked her finger across it, the first time he had ever felt her skin touch his there. Her breathing grew heavier. She wanted this as much as he did. When Jenna pulled his briefs down, Brad's manhood stood straight up, flat against his stomach. Brad hadn't been that hard since college. A drop of moisture pearled at the tip, and Brad watched with fascination as Jenna licked it off. The feel of her lips made him feel like he would explode at any moment. He stroked her hair. He didn't deserve this, he thought. He had no idea what he had done to deserve receiving this. He closed his eyes and lost himself in the sensation of her mouth on him. "Jenna," he gasped. "You're making me crazy." She stood up, a smile on her face. The smile changed to a look of concern. She wiped a tear from the corner of his eye. "Are you okay?" Brad answered with a deep, searching kiss. No, he wasn't sure he was okay. He wanted her so much he ached in parts of his heart he didn't even know existed. "C'mon, let's go upstairs," he said. "I think my bed will be more comfortable than the front door." Jenna laughed and followed him up the stairs. Brad couldn't resist gathering her in his arms and kissing her again when they reached the top. He knew their time together was limited, and he intended to make the most of it.

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Brad led her into his bedroom. The sunlight filtered through the filmy curtains, bathing Jenna's skin with a luminous glow and turning her hair into spun gold. He couldn't keep his eyes off of her as he pulled the covers back. Jenna slipped her feet in between the sheets and started to pull the top sheet over her, but Brad hurried over and tugged it back off. "I don't want you to cover yourself," he said. "But it's so bright in here," she said, nodding toward the curtains. "I'm, not used to, uh, in the daylight." "I want to see every inch of you," Brad said and slipped onto the bed next to her. He picked up her hand and nibbled her fingers. "You have no reason to be shy around me. I think you're absolutely perfect." He looked down at her body, taking in the sight of all that lovely skin. He smoothed his hand over her leg, marveling how silky she felt. Jenna's body relaxed under his touch. Seeing Jenna respond to him so easily flamed his need for her even more. "Here, let me cover you up a bit," Brad said, maneuvering his body over hers. The feel of his erection brushing against her thigh drove him nearly out his mind. Brad wanted to make Jenna as hungry as he was. He pressed a trail of kisses from her lips down between her breasts, lingering there and inhaling the scent of her skin, rubbing his cheek against her soft flesh. His hand cupped the moist lace between her legs. She gasped and tangled her fingers in his hair. Brad stroked her through the fabric, thankful there would be no phone calls this time to interrupt them.

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Brad teased himself as much as he teased her, wanting to prolong the sensations washing through him. Jenna's hips moved in time to his strokes, silently begging for more. When Brad couldn't resist any further, he pulled the lace aside and dipped his fingers into her wetness, running his fingers along her swollen lips before lingering at the tiny sensitive bud. Jenna cried out and bucked her hips. "Oh, please," she breathed, lifting her hips. "More." Brad slid a finger inside her, then two, marveling at the tightness of the muscles gripping them. He plunged his fingers deeper, hinting at what he wanted to do with his body. She didn't have to say a word to let Brad know what she wanted. Her body did all the talking. His body screamed at him to take her, now, hard, like she obviously wanted, but he couldn't just yet. He tore off her panties and continued his kisses down past her navel, planting a kiss at the very edge of her curls. The scent of her perfume mingled with her feminine musk, a heady combination tempting Brad to go even further. "Please, Brad," Jenna moaned. "Please what?" Brad said, a lazy smile crossing his face. He traced his finger on her lips. "I want to hear you say it." "Please kiss me there." Brad ran his tongue in between her lips. A moan escaped his lips at the taste of her. He had intended to tease her gently with his tongue and make her beg, but at the first lick he lost control. She tasted like heaven and he wanted to drown himself in between

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her thighs. He pressed his open mouth against her lips, darting his tongue inside her again and again. He closed his lips around her throbbing bud and swirled his tongue around it, prodding it to swell even more. Jenna's moans changed to gasps, then pleading. He couldn't wait any longer. He slid up the bed, pulled open the nightstand and found a condom. After he covered himself, he settled his hips between her thighs and pressed the tip of himself against her lips. They both groaned at the long, slow slide of connection. Jenna lifted her hips up to meet his. Brad couldn't believe how slick and tight she was, her body squeezing every single part of him. Every thought was wiped from his brain, leaving only Jenna in his senses, in his consciousness. She was his whole world and he never wanted to leave. Brad kept his eyes open so he could watch her face as he thrust into her. She gazed at him with a look of wonder before her eyelids fluttered closed. She clutched his shoulders and brought his torso back against hers. "I can't get close enough," she breathed. She wrapped her legs around his waist, drawing him deeper. The tightness in his groin grew almost unbearable. His thrusts became faster, more desperate. He wanted release as much he wanted to prolong the exquisite agony. With every moan escaping her lips, he felt his self-control, his self, slipping away. Jenna's muscles gripped him as she arched her back and cried out, sending Brad over the edge. He shuddered as he poured himself into her in a climax that felt like it would never end.

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He heard a quiet sob against his shoulder and then dampness. Brad pulled back to look at her. Jenna tried to hide her face with her hair, but Brad wasn't going to have any of that. He wasn't about to let Jenna hide any part of her from him ever again. "Are you all right?" Brad asked. When she didn't answer, Brad's heart sank. Did he hurt her? Even worse, did she regret what had happened? Brad's mind went through all the possible scenarios of how he had screwed up the best thing that had happened to him. "You didn't do anything wrong," she said Even though her eyes were damp, her face was beaming. "So why are you crying?" "I'm crying because I'm happy, silly," she said. Brad enveloped her in another protective hug. His heart felt it would burst. They clung to each other for a moment, the silence punctuated only by the occasional sniffle from Jenna as she relaxed in his arms. She turned over so her back faced him and nestled closer. Brad adjusted himself so every part of his body, from his head to his feet, pressed against her. They were a perfect fit. Jenna interlaced her fingers with his. "Guess what?" she said. "What?" "You made me miss my flight." Brad laughed, then wrestled with her in the sheets until she was pinned under him. He held her hands down on either side of her head and pressed a firm kiss on her lips. "Just for that, I'm going to make you miss the next flight too," Brad said. His body

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stirred to life against t her thigh. Jenna giggled and seemed as delighted as he was that he was aroused again so quickly. Brad was never one to waste a good opportunity. He intended to make the most of this one.

****

When Jenna first awoke, she momentarily thought she was in a hotel room, cocooned in crisp white cotton sheets and plump down pillows. Except a hotel room didn't have the delicious warmth of Brad's body cuddled against her back. She slowly rolled over so she wouldn't wake him, which wasn't easy with his arm draped over her waist. After a bit of fussing, she managed to face him, giving her ample opportunity to look at the man that had now become her lover. In sleep, Brad still managed to look far from vulnerable. Jenna studied his face. His lashes were surprisingly long for a man, sweeping against the slight bags under his eyes. She smoothed her thumb against the lines on his forehead. Instead of detracting from his looks, the imperfections made him even more handsome, adding character to his face and showing he experienced life's stresses while trying to do something great. No airbrushed male model could compare to that. She slipped back under the sheet and spooned her body against his,. He sighed and tightened his arm around her. He was still asleep. Well, she went with her feelings this time and ended up here. If she'd ignored her

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heart and stuck with her original plan to fly home, she wouldn't be here, snuggled against Brad and feeling well loved. She never imagined he could make her feel all the things she did. With Brad, the walls she kept between her mind, body, and heart crumbled under his touch, making her whole. For the first time in many years, Jenna looked forward to the unknown. The merger still lingered in her mind, but for some reason she no longer feared it. There was nothing more she could do to rationalize her decision. To move forward, she needed a leap of faith. She trusted Brad enough to do it. Brad stirred next to her, then he yawned and stretched his arms. When he saw Jenna watching him, his face broke into a smile. "Hey there," he said. He reached up to touch Jenna's face. Jenna turned her head and kissed his palm. "Hey yourself," she said. She slid back down in between the sheets and snuggled next to him, soaking in the feel of him next to her. She never wanted to leave. Her stomach gurgled. Jenna cringed with embarrassment. She glanced at Brad and was relieved to see he didn't seem to notice. All she had to eat all day was a granola bar and coffee. "Are you hungry at all?" she asked. Brad hugged her tighter, kneading the muscles on her back. He playfully bit her shoulder. "Definitely," he said. The thought of spending another few hours devouring Brad tempted Jenna. Her stomach rumbled again, loudly enough for Brad to hear.

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"We can take care of that too” Brad said. "Do you like Thai food?" "Love it. Is there a Thai place near here?" "Yes, downstairs." Jenna frowned. "Downstairs? I don't understand." "You'll see. Wait here and I'll get your suitcases out of the car so you can change into something more comfortable." His eyes raked over her nude body. "Of course, if you'd rather walk around exactly the way you are now, I wouldn't mind." She suddenly felt shy under his gaze. She pulled up the sheet to cover her body. "I think I'd prefer the clothes, if you don't mind." Brad laughed and planted a kiss on her lips. "No problem. I'll be right back." He disappeared into his closet and soon emerged wearing a pair of faded jeans and a vintage Yes concert T-shirt. Jenna had never seen Brad in casual clothes before. Even in Detroit, he'd worn khakis and a polo shirt. She decided she liked him best in weekend garb, especially when she saw how his jeans hugged his bottom. Brad turned and caught her watching him. He climbed onto the bed again and gathered her in his arms. "If you keep looking at me like that, we're never going to get dinner," he said. "Okay, I'll stop," Jenna said. Her stomach growled again. "Priorities, you know." When Brad returned with her suitcases, Jenna threw on jeans and T-shirt and padded down the stairs. She turned the corner and saw a small, yet beautifully-outfitted kitchen, with Brad busying himself at the center island with a bottle of wine and a corkscrew. "Hey, Jenna, welcome to the Thai place downstairs," he said with a smile.

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There was nothing sexier than a man who could cook. Jenna stood still, taking in the vision of Brad filling two wine glasses, stopping drips a practiced twist of the bottle. Despite the suburban location of Brad's townhouse, the sleek kitchen looked like it belonged in an urban loft. The refrigerator and stove were stainless steel, contrasting with the blond wood cabinets and dark granite countertops. Against the wall, a magnetic rack held a respectable collection of knives for easy access. A small tray near the stove held tall bottles of different oils. This was a kitchen to be used. Was there anything Brad couldn't do? Jenna perched on a bar stool. Brad handed her a glass of wine. "I hope you like Riesling," Brad said. Jenna nodded. With Brad, even cheap beer would've been fine with her.. "What should we toast to?" he asked. "There seem to be so many possibilities." "Let's toast to that then," Jenna said, holding up her glass. "To possibilities." Brad's eyes never left hers as they touched their glasses together. The wine felt cool and crisp against her tongue. In her wildest dreams, she never thought she would even meet someone like Brad, let alone be enjoying a drink at his home after. . . Jenna felt her cheeks flame again. So much had happened, it still didn't feel real. As she watched Brad pull ingredients out of the refrigerator and place them on the counter, she felt like she was floating outside of her own body, watching another woman be waited on hand and foot. The pleasurable soreness in her body as she shifted in her seat, though, reminded her the day's surreal events were actually happening. "This wine is lovely," she said, taking another sip. "Are you sure I can't help you

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with anything?" "You can help me by sitting where I can look at you while I cook," he said. "Let me be an extra set of hands, at least," she said, sliding off the bar stool. "I'm halfway decent with a knife too." Brad hesitated, then smiled. "Okay, if you insist," he said. "I washed all of the vegetables already, so you can put them on the plates there. I'll also need some boiling water for the rice noodles. Then we can head outside to the grill." Jenna felt relieved to be doing something useful rather than sitting back watching Brad cook for her. As she arranged salad greens, cucumbers, grape tomatoes, cilantro, and mint leaves onto chilled plates, she felt an overwhelming sense of domestic familiarity. For a moment, it felt like a typical weeknight, as if she and Brad had been living together forever. Brad took out a large plastic bag with a piece of meat sitting in a dark liquid. "Wow, that looks fancy," Jenna said. "It's really easy. I took flank steak and cut slashes in it, then I marinated it in lime juice, garlic, green onions, brown sugar, ginger, crushed red pepper, and fish sauce." "Fish sauce? That sounds a bit frightening." "It sounds worse than it is. That's what makes Thai food taste like Thai food. It smells like dirty socks, but it tastes so good. Trust me on this." Jenna knew she could trust Brad with anything. She followed him outside to the patio where she was greeted by a large stainless steel grill. Brad raised the lid, fiddled with some knobs, then pressed a switch. The grill whooshed to life.

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"It's so gorgeous out here," Jenna said. She eyed the bistro table and the cushioned outdoor chairs on the patio, then looked to the west to see the sun starting its descent toward the tree line. "Can we have dinner outside?" "You can have anything you want," Brad said, his voice low and intimate. Jenna wondered whether Brad sensed just how much he affected her. He lifted the lid of the grill again and placed the flank steak onto the grates with a smooth, practiced motion. The meat sizzled with a puff of fragrant steam that wafted in the breeze toward Jenna's nose. "It smells like my favorite Thai place back home." "I'm so glad you like Thai food," Brad said, poking at the steak with his tongs. "I was going to make this for myself anyway, but I know it's going to taste better with you here." When the steak was done, Brad let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips. He fanned the strips on the plates Jenna had prepared, then topped it with rice noodles and a sprinkle of peanuts. "There you go," he said, placing a final mint sprig on each plate. Jenna helped set the bistro table with the wine chiller, napkins, and silverware. When they sat down, Jenna was glad they hadn't gone out to a restaurant. No waiters, no crowds or interruptions. Just the two of them in Brad's backyard. Brad watched Jenna's face as she took a bite of the salad. She sensed it would be good, but nothing prepared her for the riot of sparkling flavors hitting her tongue. It was a sensory overload, like Brad himself, with the crisp coolness of the greens, the softness of the rice

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noodles, and the warmth of the grilled beef mixing with hot, tart, salty, and sweet flavors all at once. "This is unbelievably good," she said. Brad beamed with pride. "Thank you. I hoped you'd like it." "Where did you learn how to cook like this?" "Books. Experimenting. I like to learn new things. It's amazing how much you can discover by exploring." They ate in a comfortable silence. Normally Jenna would have felt compelled to fill the empty space with idle talk, but with Brad the quiet didn't feel awkward. Jenna felt like she'd known him forever. By the time Brad brought out cups of mango sorbet for dessert, Jenna finally could name the odd feeling she had for him. She was falling in love.

****

Brad rinsed the dishes and handed them to Jenna to place in the dishwasher. "I'm sorry we didn't go out for dinner," Brad said. "I wouldn't blame you if you think I'm a total bore now." "Are you kidding me?" Jenna said. "I had a wonderful time, and I'd be perfectly happy to stay in for the rest of the night with Washington's Most Eligible Bachelor." "Don't tell me you read that article," Brad said, rolling his eyes. "How did you get a

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hold of that?" "The 'how' is not important. All I know is it didn't do you justice." Brad laughed. " I'm still embarrassed by that. I have no idea who nominated me, but believe me when I say I'm not nearly as cool as they make me out to be." "Oh, I don't know," Jenna said. She wiped her hands on her jeans and closed the dishwasher door. "They didn't say nearly enough good things. For one, the article didn't mention you're an excellent cook." Brad refilled their wine glasses and smiled. He took the glasses into the living room. Jenna trailed behind him and sat on the couch, tucking her feet underneath her. "You're too kind. Is there anything else you think they missed?" he said, settling in next to her and draping an arm around her shoulder. "They also didn't mention you are very, very good in bed." The corners of Brad's eyes crinkled with amusement. "I never kiss and tell," he said. "There are some things I'd rather keep secret." Jenna tilted her head and leaned closer. "Then I feel very privileged to know something about you most people don't know." "Believe me, the privilege is all mine." Jenna lost herself in the taste of Brad's wine-drenched lips on hers. For the second time that day, all of her defenses were down. She had no idea how Brad had managed to earn her trust so easily, but she gave herself up to the feeling. Jenna slid her fingers in his hair, memorizing the soft, thick texture of it before smoothing her hand against the sandpaper roughness of his face. She knew she would

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miss him when she headed home, and she wanted to remember as much of him as she could, how he looked and felt and tasted and sounded. His tongue toyed with her lips, seeking entrance, and she pressed her body against his as she opened her mouth to let him explore. As they kissed, Jenna straddled over his lap and held his face in her hands. When she drew away, Brad's eyes glittered with passion. She held down his hands and hovered her lips millimeters away from his before drawing away. Jenna grasped the bottom hem of her T-shirt and slipped it over her head. She hadn't bothered with a bra. Brad inhaled sharply and reached for her, but she pinned his hands against the back of the couch. She rose up slightly so her breasts were at the same level as his face, then shifted her body so one nipple brushed against his lips, then the other. Brad's trapped one nipple between his lips, sending sparks through Jenna's body. His tongue teased her nipples into hard little pebbles and sent burning throbs of delight between her thighs. She held Brad's head closer, letting him plant kisses over her breasts and shoulders. Despite her vow to herself to take charge this time, she melted. She became acutely aware of how vulnerable she was with her thighs spread open over his lap. Even though she was still wearing her jeans, the way Brad's eyes studied her made her feel like her legs were as naked as the rest of her body. "What are you thinking right now?" Brad said and traced the tip of his finger along the back of her hand. Jenna didn't hesitate. "How much I like being with you." She trailed her fingertips

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down the front of his shirt, then smoothed her palms over his chest. Brad inhaled and grabbed her wrists. "You're going to drive me crazy if you keep doing that." Jenna smiled. "I think that's the whole idea." "Mmmm, you're a bad girl," Brad said. He slapped her playfully on the bottom, then slipped his hand into her back pocket. His palm burned through the denim. "Would you like to head back upstairs?" Jenna shifted her body to one side and let her hand trail along the ridges of his stomach to the button of his jeans. Her hand brushed lower against his straining zipper, making Brad groan with delight. "I think I'd like to stay right here," Jenna said. Brad chuckled and drew Jenna closer to him. "I like the way you think," he said. She tugged at his shirt hem "I think this needs to come off." She pulled the shirt over his head, then settled her bare breasts against his chest. His chest hairs tickled her skin as she kissed him. "Ah, much better," Jenna purred. Brad held her even tighter against him as he kissed her, cupping one hand on her bottom and holding her tightly against his lap so she could feel him swelling with each thrust of his tongue into her mouth. The thick fabric of his jeans couldn't disguise the extent of his need. Brad drew away, his breath unsteady. "I want you," he said, unbuttoning her jeans with trembling fingers. He whisked both her jeans and her panties off her body and

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tossed them aside. They landed on the coffee table in a messy heap. Jenna hooked her fingers around Brad's waistband and shimmied his jeans to the floor. Brad kicked them aside, grabbed a condom from his wallet on the side table, then pulled Jenna back on his lap. Jenna straddled him again, letting his manhood brush against the tender skin of her inner thigh. Brad grabbed her hips and gave her a deep, searching kiss while she shimmied against him, rubbing her tender lips against the coarse thatch of his hair. "I can feel how wet you are," Brad said, his voice hoarse. He slipped his hand in between Jenna's thighs, then slowly slid a finger into her. Jenna tightened her grip on his shoulders, her hips moving in time with his expert caresses. His thumb brushed against the sensitive bud with feathery touches as his fingers pushed deeper, filling her yet hinting at the other pleasures he could provide. She wanted to experience them all. Brad withdrew his hand and looked straight into Jenna's eyes. She watched him, wide-eyed, as he slowly licked his fingers. "You're the best dessert I could ask for," he said. Jenna couldn't wait any longer. She shifted her body so the tip of his erection pressed against the most sensitive part of her. His eyes never left hers as she sank down, feeling every inch of him slide into her. Her body welcomed him in a tight embrace as her hips slowly moved to a rhythm Brad had no choice but to follow. In her wildest fantasies, she never imagined making love like this, being the one to seize control. Brad's eyes were half-closed, his breathing matching their movements, his body sliding deeper into her. Jenna forced herself to keep her eyes open and burn this

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moment in her memory. They soon slid off the couch. They were still joined as Brad rolled on top of her. Her skin rubbed against the carpet as Brad thrust into her faster, making her body tighten even more. Jenna's entire body shook, overwhelmed by the sensations washing through her. She could no longer tell where she ended and he began. Her climax caught her by surprise, sending delicious spasms through her body. She wrapped her legs around his waist as she rocked her hips against him and cried out his name. Brad pushed into her one last time and groaned with his own climax that seemed to go on forever. Brad clung to her while his breathing returned to normal. A small, knowing smile crossed Jenna's lips, the kind of smile she saw on confident women. So this is what it felt like to be desirable. She could get used to this. She snuggled deeper in his arms, barely noticing the friction of the carpet. She could be on a concrete floor with Brad and would still be comfortable. Brad nuzzled her hair. "I wish you didn't have to go so soon." "Me neither, but I have to get back home eventually." "You could always move in with me," he said. "I'd adopt you. As long as you're housebroken, of course." Jenna laughed and turned over so she was lying on her back. Brad took her hand and kissed her palm, then nibbled her fingers. The tender gesture brought tears to her eyes. She already missed him, and she hadn't even left yet. Jenna pressed a finger over his lips. "Shhh, don't talk about work," she said. "I don't

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even want to think about what's waiting for me back home. I might end up staying here." "In that case, what do you think about the new examination guidelines the patent office released last week? I'm sure you have a lot of cases where that's going to be a problem. Don't you want to hide here instead?" Jenna laughed and pulled his body closer. "You're not making home sound good. Are you sure you don't want to ditch this law gig and run away to Tahiti?" "It's tempting, isn't it?" he said. " You would look phenomenal with a bikini and a paintbrush." When Brad kissed her, Jenna promised herself to stay awake for as long as she could. She had no idea when she would see Brad again, and she didn't want to waste a minute of their remaining time together on sleep. She doubted Brad would let her sleep much anyway.

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Chapter Eleven

"Sorry for being blunt, but you look terrible," Veronica said. "Is everything all right?" Jenna screwed her eyes shut and rubbed the bridge of her nose. "I'm fine. I need more coffee, though. I had trouble sleeping last night. I got back late." Veronica nodded. "I'll get you a coffee. I'm heading there myself." Jenna stifled a laugh as Veronica hurried off. Jenna had barely slept, tossing in bed as she alternately dreamt about Brad and worried about the merger. No wonder she was ready to faceplant onto her desk. Jenna had always depended on exhaustive research and analytical thinking to make decisions. The strategy had never failed her, yet now, after spending two days at Brad's firm, she didn't feel any more confident than she did the week before. In fact, she felt more confused than ever. For the first time in her life, her methodical approach had failed her. Not that she'd been able to concentrate solely on the deal. Her thoughts kept wandering to the nights she'd spent with Brad. After she'd returned home, she realized 101

she couldn't sleep without him next to her. Veronica returned with a steaming mug. "I can tell you're stressed. Take a deep breath and clear your mind." Jenna shot Veronica a skeptical look. "You're starting to sound like a yoga instructor." "Hey, don't knock it until you try it." Jenna sighed impatiently, then did as she was told. She inhaled deeply, then exhaled. "Great, now I feel lightheaded. Stressed and lightheaded. I've analyzed this damn merger from every angle I can think of and I'm still scared to make a damn decision." "No wonder you're scared. You're over thinking it." "Got any ideas on what I should do? I have nothing left in the brain tank." "Your brain's done it's job. Maybe you should let your heart decide." Jenna barked a sharp laugh. "I'm a lawyer, remember? I'm not supposed to have a heart. And the engineer side of me certainly isn't going to make such a big decision on something so unreliable." "What makes you think your heart is unreliable?" Veronica asked. Jenna hesitated for a moment. For someone who prided herself on critical thinking and questioning everything, she felt embarrassed that she never bothered to question her own basic assumptions on how she made decisions. And Veronica, without a college degree but with plenty of street smarts, had zeroed in on the fundamental weakness in Jenna's whole worldview.

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"Look, Jenna," Veronica said when Jenna didn't immediately answer, "I've worked with you long enough to know how you think, so I'm not surprised you're not exactly open to the idea." "Let's just say I'm not used to it," Jenna said. "There's a lot riding on my decision and I don't want to make the wrong one." "Is there really a wrong decision?" Veronica asked. "Maybe that's part of the problem. Either way you choose, there's going to be good stuff and bad stuff. The question is which one are you more willing to live with?" "I think I already know what your answer's going to be on this, but I'll ask anyway: would you let personal issues factor into your decision?" "Honey, it's all personal. That work-life separation you always insist on? It's an illusion. No matter what happens, you're still at the center of it. Last time I checked, you're a person. Therefore, it's personal. Even if it's work-related." All that didn't mean Veronica suspected Jenna's feelings for Brad,. She hoped that was the case, anyway. "Look," Veronica said. "I know it's hard for you to take a leap of faith. But isn't it worth trying?" "For something as major as this?" "Why not? It sure beats what you're doing now. I can tell you're driving yourself crazy over this." Jenna frowned. "What if I make the wrong choice?" "You're assuming there is one."

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"Thank you, Yoda." Veronica laughed. "Helpful to you, I hope. Trust your judgment; I do." Jenna hurried back to her office and shut the door. She bit her lip. What did her heart say? It said she wanted to be with Brad. It was that simple. With that, she had her answer. She dialed Brad's number and clutched the phone as it rang once. Twice. "Hello?" "Brad? About the merger. The answer's yes."

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Chapter Twelve

"Brad, I have some more documentation for you." Lyon walked into Brad's office with a sheaf of papers. "Your hunch was right. There's some weird business going on with that Gilmore guy." "Nice work," Brad said. "I wonder why no one caught it before?" "No reason to look," Lyon said. "If Jenna hadn't said anything to you, we wouldn't have checked. Fake invoices are pretty basic, and Jenna's accounting system was so lax Dave could set up his own books separate from the firm's without anyone noticing. Plus, faking deals with his own shell companies was quite clever." Brad frowned. "Do you think Jenna suspects anything?" Lyon shook her head. "I doubt it. If anything, she's too trusting. She puts up a tough front, but I sense she wants to believe in the best of people." Great, that's all he needed, having Jenna believe he was a good guy. At least now, with the merger talks over, she wouldn't discover he'd initially tried to romance the firm from her. They had something special now. That's all that mattered. He told himself if he hadn't acted slightly shady in the beginning, he would've never discovered 105

how perfect Jenna was for him. But a good guy wouldn't have acted shady in the first place. "I'm glad we were able to uncover all that before any papers got signed," Lyon said, not noticing Brad's agitation. "If Jenna hadn't mentioned the dodgy invoices, we wouldn't have thought to dig deeper. I'd hoped it was an honest accounting screw-up, for your sake, but no such luck." Brad yanked his mind back to business. "At this point, nothing surprises me anymore. I still can't believe we came this close to buying ourselves one nice big liability," he said. "Thanks, Lyon, I owe you one." "Don't thank me, thank Jenna. She got the ball rolling." The sound of Jenna's name made Brad very tired. She'd called him less than an hour ago, her voice bubbling with excitement, saying she'd like to join his firm after all. He was thrilled then, before Lyon confirmed the fraud. Now he dreaded disappointing Jenna with the news. He opened a file, assuming Lyon was done speaking. To Brad's surprise, Lyon didn't leave. She studied him, frowning. "Hey, is everything all right?" she asked. "You look like something else is bugging you." "I'm fine." "You're nervous about telling Jenna the deal's off, aren't you?" Damn that Lyon. Were all women this good at reading other people's minds? He

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wondered how much Jenna suspected about him. No, he was sure Jenna didn't suspect anything. She couldn't have, not by the way she responded to him the past two nights. The thought brought tension of another kind. "Brad, deals fall apart all the time. Once you tell her what's up, I'm sure she'll thank you and move on. I talked with her. She's a sharp woman. She'll survive, merger or no merger." "After this, she might not even have a firm," Brad said. "I'm starting to feel guilty for opening this can of worms. I don't think she even realizes what she did." "Right, and if we didn't find this out until later, we would be in a whole world of hurt. You know what the right decision is. You have a business to run and so does she. It's not our fault her partners are scum." "It's not her fault either," Brad said. "Well, I think you're doing her a favor by being honest with her so she can get out while she can. Dave probably thought joining our firm would give him access to more client accounts and a bigger place to hide.. You know we'll have to report this. The sooner, the better." Brad nodded. "I never thought I'd ever say this, but this is one of those times I wish we didn't have a duty to be honest." A puzzled look crossed Lyon's face. "Why do you say that?" "Let's just say I skirted the ethical line myself and I'm not sure whether to tell Jenna." To Brad's surprise, Lyon laughed. "What, you overestimated the tip you gave to the

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taxi driver on your expense report? Billed one-tenth of an hour to a client even though you took a bathroom break? Knowing you, whatever you're worried about is no big deal." She gently cuffed him on the shoulder. "Whatever it is, I'm sure she'll appreciate finding out from you before finding out the hard way." He was glad Lyon didn't pry about what Brad meant when he confessed to ethical lapses. Was sleeping with a potential partner ethically wrong? And if it were, why did it feel so incredibly right? He knew he should say something to Jenna. He had to clear the air and make sure she heard the whole story from him. He couldn't imagine how Jenna would ever find out about Dave's little suggestion, but he felt the urge to let her know as soon as possible. He wanted to make it absolutely clear the merger had nothing to do with what had happened between them. It may have started out that way. Brad had to be honest with himself about that. But now? He told himself he was doing Jenna a favor by not going through with the merger. He had a duty to report Dave, even if doing so would damage Jenna's firm. He'd seen other firms lose key clients or even dissolve after embezzlement schemes. He'd made Jenna's fears of losing GCP Law Group come true. "I wish there was a way to save Jenna from the fallout," he said. Lyon looked at him like he was crazy. "Dude, are you the head of this firm or not?"

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Chapter Thirteen

Brad, Jenna, and Dave met in the firm's main conference room, the same one they had used the week before. Jenna didn't mind being the center of attention this time. She knew after that day, her firm's future would be in good hands. She pretended to read emails on her Blackberry, hiding her joy at seeing Brad again. Dave didn't have to know about that. It was none of his business. She hadn't expected to miss Brad so much after only a few days. Phone calls and email messages weren't the same as having him there. When he took the seat next to her , all the feelings she'd experienced in DC came rushing back. She wished Dave wasn't in the same room. She hated having to keep up a professional front while her body vibrated for Brad's touch. "Good to see you," Brad whispered, leaning so close his breath grazed her ear. Jenna jumped in her seat, then looked up to see Brad acting as if nothing had happened. Dave poured himself a mug of coffee. He sat across from Jenna without bothering to ask whether she or Brad wanted some too. After taking a noisy gulp, Dave leaned back in his chair and clasped his hands

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behind his head. "Brad, I see you wanted to meet with me and Jenna privately rather than the entire firm," Dave said. "That's all right," Brad said. "Jenna identified some issues I needed to check into before we finalized the deal, and those issues specifically involve you." Jenna shot Brad a confused look. She'd told him she was okay with the deal and would sign on to the merger. What was going on? "I'm glad she was such a big help," Dave said. Jenna thought she saw Dave wink. "She's stubborn, but I'm sure you've had plenty of experience being persuasive with difficult people." Jenna glared at Dave, but said nothing. Dave stopped chuckling. He straightened his chair with a loud creak and slapped his palms flat on the table. "Well, no use waiting. Show me where we need to sign so we can tell everyone the good news." "I'm sorry, but the deal's off," Brad said. Jenna coughed and a bolt of panic shot through her body. She wasn't sure she heard correctly. She looked over at Dave to see if he heard the same thing she did. A flicker of surprise crossed Dave's face. "What the hell are you talking about?" Dave said. He glared at Jenna. "You told me you OK'ed the deal" "I did," Jenna said. "Jenna provided some new information," Brad said cryptically. Jenna stared at him. What did she have to do with this? She wracked her brain trying to remember if she'd

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said anything that would have made Brad change his mind about merging. She came up blank. "Embezzlement is serious business," Brad said to Dave, "but I'm sure you already know that." Jenna shook her head. Were they still talking about the merger or not? It was as if Brad and Dave had started speaking German. Embezzlement? "Jenna, he's talking nonsense," Dave said, his voice calm. "I think ol' Brad here is trying to weasel out of the deal without actually saying so. Strange, I've always thought you were more direct than that." "Dave, I highly recommend you stop pretending you don't know what I'm talking about," Brad said. Dave's face turned red. "And where do you get off telling me what to do? You have no idea what you're talking about, and I really resent the fact you're not even man enough to just walk away from the deal with a simple 'thanks, but no thanks’ like any sensible businessperson. You have to make wild accusations too? I tried to help you put this whole thing together, and this is how you thank me?" Jenna closed her eyes and counted to ten. "Will someone tell me what the hell is going on?" she asked. "In case you've forgotten, I'm one of the managing partners in this firm, so I think I have a right to know." "Dave's been stealing from you," Brad said. "Jenna, he's trying to ruin my reputation," Dave said. A wheedling tone crept into his voice. "Come on, we've worked together our entire careers. We're practically family.

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Who are you going to believe, me or him?" An uncomfortable silence hung in the room for a few seconds. "It's not about belief," Jenna finally said. "I need facts." "Okay, how's this for starters: Dave set up shell corporations, then skimmed money from the deals he did for his clients into them. He also sent fake invoices to the bigger clients for those deals thinking they wouldn't review them too closely. You mentioned those invoices to me, remember?" Yes, she had. The ones she had mentioned to Brad in an offhand remark about how she didn't trust her feelings for decisions. She thought she had said that in confidence, a little bit of intimate talk between friends getting to know each other. Apparently, Brad thought all was fair in love and business. He'd betrayed her. "Although the deal's officially off, I still want to hire Jenna and anyone else she sees fit to open the Detroit branch office. She did say yes to joining Tremaine & Cole, and I want to make it happen. Jenna can decide if she wants to dissolve the GCP Law Group and hand-pick the people she wants to come with her." Dave lunged at Brad. "You two-timing son-of-a—" "Dave, I think you'd better leave right now," Jenna said. "But Jenna—" "Now." "Jenna, you can't possibly believe—" "Will you just shut up and leave?" Her voice was so low it was barely audible. Dave slipped out of the room and yanked at the door. His attempt at a dramatic exit

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fizzled as the hydraulic hinges eased the door closed with a quiet hiss. The room suddenly felt uncomfortable with only Brad there. Her mind raced, reminding Jenna her feelings had failed her. It didn't matter that Jenna had nothing to do with Dave's stealing. It was her firm too, and the Detroit bar loved gossip about other lawyers more than anything else. They'd question her honesty and integrity. Guilt by association. She could imagine the chatter already. How could she possibly not know what Dave was doing? They'd worked together for so many years. They were her clients. Was she stupid, naive, both? She was probably getting a kickback. Whether or not it was true didn't matter. Lawyers had reputations as sharks for a reason, and they didn't care if the blood was from one of their own. "Jenna, are you all right?" The weight of Brad's warm hands on her shoulders felt reassuring. His hands massaged small circles over her shoulders. "I'm sorry I had to drop the bomb on you like that," Brad said. "I know I should have said something to you earlier, but I thought it would be better to wait and tell you in person." "I understand." She stared at the table. "What are you going to do now?" "Obviously, I need to do my own follow-up, then press charges and report him to the bar. I'll also have to see how much Glen knew," Jenna said. She knew she hadn't thanked Brad for uncovering the theft, but she was too drained to worry about good manners. She sank deeper into the chair and closed her eyes. "Brad, I think I need to be alone for a bit," she said.

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Brad's hands stopped moving, then disappeared from her shoulders. She hated the sudden chill she felt when he left her side, but she didn't think she could deal with even him right now. A part of her wanted to sink into his arms so she could feel his lean body supporting her. No, she couldn't let him do that. She wouldn't let him do that. She needed to get through the chaos on her own. "I know I dumped a big mess on you," Brad said. "I want to help you." Jenna hesitated, then shook her head. "I'll be fine." "Are you sure?" No. Actually, I feel like I'm on the verge of a nervous breakdown. "Yes. Really, I'm fine, or will be anyway." Jenna stood up and gathered her papers. She felt like she should say something, but she wasn't sure what. What could she say to a man she slept with days before he put her career in a tailspin? "Thank you. I do appreciate your help," she said. "I hope we can get this straightened out soon. "Should I stop by your office in a few minutes?" Brad asked. "I can get more information to help you figure out what to do next. We can salvage the best parts of the deal and go from there." He paused, as if trying to choose his words carefully. "Plus, I'm worried about you. This kind of news would be a blow to anyone." She didn't know if she could handle any more attention from Brad. That was the problem whenever she let other people get involved with her life. Something always veered off course.

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"I'll be fine. I can handle it myself." She rushed out of the conference room before Brad could say anything more. If she stayed one second longer, she would beg for his help.

****

Dave stormed into Jenna's office. A vein stood out near his receding hairline. He glared at Jenna. Jenna wouldn't have been surprised if he spontaneously combusted right in her office. She wouldn't have missed him if he did, but replacing the melted carpet would've been a hassle. "Why did you tell him about the invoices?" he asked. "It was an offhand remark. I didn't know it was such a big deal." Jenna didn't feel like elaborating further. "Well, thanks for ruining my career," he said. "You ruined it yourself. I didn't do anything. Brad's doing what's best for the firm, and so am I. Nothing personal." Dave's eyes narrowed. "Nothing personal?" His voice lowered almost to a whisper. "Nothing personal?" he repeated and swiped a hand across her files. They tumbled to the floor. Jenna didn't flinch. "I can't believe how stupid you are," Dave said. "I don't know what happened in DC, but I told Brad to do whatever it took to get you to vote yes to the merger.

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Whatever it took. And he agreed to do it. Apparently, it worked a little too well and he's keeping you and dumping me. Are you proud of yourself now?" "Excuse me?" Jenna said "You know, soften you up. Convince you to vote 'yes' any way he could. Do I need to spell it out for you?" The thought of Dave describing any more details made Jenna feel nauseated. "No, I get it. I should be shocked, but I'm not surprised you suggested it." "I'll bet sleeping with you is like lying with a glacier. Still, look where we're at now. He seems to like you enough to toss you a bone." "Brad wants me in his firm because he knows I'm a good lawyer. He takes ethics very seriously." "Ha, and yet he still seriously considered sleeping with you to buy our firm. If he were so ethical, why didn't he simply say no? I doubt it's because he thinks you're hot. Maybe that's his way of making sure you don't run away from the deal." Jenna winced. She thought of Brad's hands exploring her body, his lips tasting her, the way he responded while he was on top of her, inside her. Dave was right. Her feelings for Brad kept her tied to his firm now. Her mind raced through everything that had happened this past week. She had trusted him, believed everything she saw and heard at the firm, believed he was a different kind of lawyer. And now Dave was telling her Brad was no better than he was. "I don't believe you," Jenna said. Dave snorted. "You can believe whatever you want," he said. "Brad's firm might

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have a squeaky-clean reputation for ethics, but Brad's still a lawyer. He's ambitious enough to do shady things to get what he wants. Ethics? Just another way to make himself and his firm look better. It's all image, Jenna. We all want the same things, and we're all willing to bend the rules to get it. Brad's not above that. Go ahead, and ask him what we talked about after the meeting last week." "You might think the promises we made when we were sworn in are a joke, but not everyone does. There's such a thing as being a decent human being." Dave snorted. "If that were true, we'd all be out of a job." Dave picked up Jenna's toy car, sending her teeth on edge.. "You know, I'm disappointed. I'd pegged Brad as a sharp guy, but apparently he isn't as smart as I thought he was," he said. "I offered him an entire law firm and a piece of ass for his trouble. But he blew both." He tossed the car over his shoulder with a casual flick of his arm. It shattered on the marble entryway of her office. Shards of plastic and metal skittered over the floor as Dave walked out of her office.

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Chapter Fourteen

Brad knew he had given Jenna a mess to deal with, but it was the right thing to do. Sure, he had expected her to be shocked. That was natural when any law firm uncovered serious problems in their operations. He'd even expected her to be angry for not catching it herself, but not for long. After all, he had saved her from losing any more money to Dave. At first, she seemed grateful for his discovery. Then the chill came. She brushed off his offers to help. She even seemed to be downright hostile toward him, and for the life of him he had no idea why. He had to talk to her, find out what was wrong, straighten things out if he could. She might see herself as a cool lawyer, but he saw her as a woman. One he cared about more than he ever thought possible. The thought of her trying to handle this whole mess alone was more than he could stand. He felt at least some responsibility for these new developments, and he felt he should help her clean it up. He wanted her to know she didn't have to shoulder the entire burden alone. 118

He ignored her closed door and stepped inside as quietly as he could. Jenna's head jerked up. "What do you want?" she asked. To his surprise, she looked like she had been crying. Her face still looked freshly made-up, but her eyes and the tip of her nose were red. If he didn't know better, he would have thought she had suffered a bout with allergies. The dead look in her eyes said otherwise. "Did you want to talk?" he asked. "No." Brad raised his eyebrows. Was this the same Jenna who had melted in his arms only a few nights ago? He recognized the ice. It was the Jenna he'd first met. "Jenna, I want to help you." "I don't want your help, all right?" She pulled a tissue out of a nearby box and dabbed at her nose. "I have plenty to deal with right now." "You don't have to play the brave attorney with me," Brad said. "It's okay, I'm here. You know I have my support." "Actually, I don't know that," Jenna said. "I don't know whose side you’re on or what you want. I was an idiot for trusting you." "What on earth are you talking about?" he said. "I discovered someone was stealing from your clients and your firm. And you're saying you don't trust me?" "Frankly, these days I don't know who to trust," she said. "I don't trust him, and I certainly don't trust you either. You've both screwed up my life." A surge of anger shot through Brad. He could handle anger. It was guilt and fear he

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couldn't tolerate. Guilt over how their relationship started. Fear that she would find out. "I found out someone's stealing from you, I'm giving you and your people job offers, and you're accusing me of screwing up your life? What planet are you on?" "I told you personal things, Brad," she said. "I didn't expect you to turn around and use it against me." "Against you? Are you serious?" Brad couldn't believe his ears. She wasn't making any sense, and yet he felt the need to apologize.. He remembered the heated whispers they'd shared, the laughter and quiet moments not so long ago. He suddenly felt very alone. It felt like there was a glass wall between them, making it impossible for them to hear each other. "I'm sure Dave did steal money from the company," she said, "so I thank you for putting the pieces together. You gave me enough reason to investigate further, and so far everything checks out. I'm taking steps to press charges." "Fine, that's great," Brad said. At least they agreed on something. "Then what the hell is this 'screwed up your life' nonsense? Jenna took a deep breath. "Dave mentioned something interesting about you. And me." Oh no. She knows. "He said he told you to work on me to get me to agree to the merger," she said. "Is that true?" Brad hesitated. "Yes, Dave did mention something like that to me. It was after our first meeting, after you left the room."

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"I see." "It wasn't like that at all—" "I'm sure it wasn't." She turned to her computer and started typing as if he weren't there. "I know I didn't exactly do the right thing about that," Brad said, his voice soft. "But I'd like to think I made up for it by uncovering what Dave did. You can't possibly put me in the same category as him. I know I didn't tell you the whole truth, but Dave stole from you." She stopped typing. "No, he didn't steal from me. He stole from my law firm. You, on the other hand, lied to me." "You can't possibly think that what I said wasn't true," Brad said. He studied Jenna's face, searching for a sign, any flicker of doubt in her eyes. There was none. Whatever warmth she had shown him before, it was gone now. "Jenna, I protected your firm," he said, saying the only thing he could think of. He knew he was repeating himself, but he didn't know how else to convince her he did care. If saving her law firm didn't show how much he cared about her, then what would? Jenna shook her head. "Forget it. Just forget it," she said. "You're obviously not hearing a word I'm saying.." Brad wasn't used to feeling helpless. "Look, I can help you with any damage control or—" "Do me a favor," she said. "Stop helping me. I think you've screwed up my life

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enough for one day. Veronica will show you out." Veronica appeared at Brad's side, seemingly out of nowhere. Her placid face didn't register any of the tension weighing down the room. It was as if seeing her boss in a foul mood was the most natural thing in the world. "May I help you find the lobby, Mr. Tremaine?" she asked. "I know this place can be such a rat maze." A perfect place for rats. Like him. Brad glanced at Jenna, hoping she would abruptly change her mind and ask him to stay so he could explain himself. But as he was shown the door, he realized that, for the first time in his life, he didn't have an answer.

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Chapter Fifteen

Jenna searched her purse for an aspirin. She needed something, anything, to make the pounding in her head go away. "You're looking positively green," Kate said. "Here, have some more wine. It's medicinal." "I think I need something stronger." Jenna waved down their waiter. "A dirty vodka martini, please." "If it will make you feel any better, I have a friend who's a white collar crime expert. You'd be in good hands." Despite Kate's reassuring words, Jenna still felt horrible. The past week had been a whirlwind of activity, starting with the security guards escorting Dave out of the building and an emergency search for forensic consultants to handle the investigation. Then came the media calls and damage control while she stayed calm and played her part as well as she could. She had no idea how she came across to outsiders, but inside she felt like the ultimate imposter. She'd failed, and now everyone knew it. "You're beating yourself up again," Kate said. 123

Jenna looked up from the tablecloth. "No, I'm not." "Yes, you are. I recognize that look. You're staring at your drink like it's going to grow wings." Jenna sighed. "I thought when I started my own firm with those guys I would automatically feel confident enough to know what to do. But right now, I feel like I have no clue what I'm doing." "Could have fooled me," Kate said. "From the looks of it, you're handling this crisis just fine. This would be a tough test for any partner. This is why law firms today are set up as limited liability corporations instead of true partnerships. It's stupidity insurance." "If I knew what I was doing, Dave wouldn't have stolen so much money in the first place." "I wouldn't blame yourself for that," Kate said. "People change, remember? Money does funny things to people. Besides, it's a good thing Brad managed to catch Dave before the deal went through. It would have been a disaster if they found out afterward. You've thanked him, right?" "Not exactly." "Girl, he saved your firm. What do you mean 'not exactly'?" "He made me look incompetent." Jenna took a deep breath when she heard her own voice, which was getting dangerously close to whining. She never allowed herself the indulgence of whining. "That was supposed to be my problem to catch, not his." "Okay, now your ego is talking," Kate chided. "It doesn't matter who caught the

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problem. Your firm is safe now, and that's all that matters. You're doing everything you can to move things forward. I doubt anyone thinks you're incompetent." "Yeah, we'll see when I start hitting the pavement looking for a job. 'GCP Law Group? Oh, isn't that the one where the managing partners stole from their clients?' That's really going to fly. I won't even have a book of business anymore once all the other clients get spooked and disappear thinking we stole from them too." Kate gripped Jenna's shoulder. "Stop it, Jenna, just stop it. You're going from depressed to ridiculous, and it's not helping. I still say you should call Brad. It's good form, and you never know when you'll cross paths again. Like when you take his job offer." Jenna bristled at Kate's pushiness, even though deep inside she knew Kate was right. The legal community in their practice specialty was surprisingly small, and with Brad still looking for a Detroit outpost, Jenna knew that she couldn't avoid him for long. "Fine," Jenna said, reaching into her purse. She pulled out her phone and made a big show of dialing Brad's number and then waiting for it to pick up. "Hello, you've reached Brad Tremaine. I can't take your call right now--" She didn't expect the rush of sensations at the sound of Brad's voice. She closed her eyes, remembering the feel of his breath against her skin, those times alone with him when anything involving work simply fell away. That wasn't the real world, though. She forced her eyes open, breaking the spell. There was a reason why happy endings only happened in fairy tales and movies. They had nothing to do with real life.

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"I got his voice mail," Jenna said as she hung up. "So leave him a message." Jenna heaved a sigh. Kate was one of the few people even more stubborn than herself. Normally, she felt like Kate was a kindred spirit, but at that moment she wished Kate would simply let her wallow in unproductive self-pity. The superwoman persona was damned difficult to maintain on a 24/7 basis. Jenna retrieved her phone again, and pressed a few buttons with her thumb. She waited a moment. "Hey, Brad, this is Jenna," she said, keeping her voice light. "I wanted to thank you for your help even though the merger didn't go through the way we'd hoped. I didn't mean to be so rude last week, but you caught me by surprise on a lot of things. Call me when you can. Thanks." She hung up the phone and dropped it into her purse. "Satisfied?" she asked. Kate nodded with approval. "You did the right thing. You really should give him a chance, you know. I could have sworn there was some chemistry between you two when I saw you at Redcoat. I'm never wrong about that." "You're wrong this time. I was only in the way of what he wanted. He wanted the firm, and I wasn't ready to sell. And when I finally decided to sell the firm, the whole Dave thing happened. I made the wrong decision twice." Kate shot Jenna a skeptical look. "Okay, three times if you count me getting involved with him."

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"He rescued your firm from Dave and offered you a job. I consider that the business equivalent of chivalry, if you ask me." Kate said with an exasperated sigh. "He could have said 'See ya' after nailing Dave and left you alone to deal with the mess." "I am alone dealing with the mess." "Because you told him to go." Jenna had no answer to that. Kate was right. She had told him to stay away, and to her disappointment, he'd respected her wishes. No wonder the past two weeks felt more like a year. "Look, I know the guy talk between Brad and Dave seems really bad, but it might be worth hearing Brad out. Honestly, he doesn't strike me as a sleazy guy." "You know this from meeting him for one minute?" "I don't, but I have a feeling about this, and I know there's more to the story. Just because Dave suggested it doesn't mean Brad took advantage of it, you know?" Jenna shrugged and sipped her drink. "At least you opened the door by leaving him a message," Kate said. "I'm glad you're giving him a chance." "Oh look, our dinner's here already," Jenna said. She hoped the distraction of good food would make Kate drop the subject. She didn't want Kate to think she would talk to Brad again, especially since she had left her apology on her own voice mail instead of his.

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Chapter Sixteen

Lyon slapped the heel of her hand against her forehead. "Brad, you're an idiot." "What?" "You actually thought discovering the embezzlement was enough to make up for not coming clean about Dave's comment?" "Wasn't that enough? I saved her law firm, damn it, and she's acting like I killed it." "Brad, Brad, Brad," Lyon said. She shook her head. "Let me give you a lesson in Women 101: Jenna is not simply the 'P' in GCP Law Group." Brad had no idea what she meant. He must have looked as confused as he felt because she rolled her eyes and muttered, "Typical guy." "What's that supposed to mean?" "It means helping her professionally doesn't give you a pass personally. For someone who manages such a progressive firm, I'm amazed at how clueless you are when it comes to your love life." Brad raised an eyebrow. "Who said anything about a love life?" "If it were only about business, you wouldn't be this upset."

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That was the problem with working with a close friend. It was impossible to hide anything from Lyon. Normally he could take her blunt advice graciously. Not today. "Lyon, I'm not in the mood to talk right now." "You can't get rid of me that easily," she said. "I'm worried about you. Have you at least tried to call Jenna and explain, maybe lend a hand? I'm sure things are a rough for her right now. We stirred up a hornet's nest there." "She made it clear she doesn't want my help. She didn't even thank me for telling her about Dave. That was something she should have figured out, not us." "Maybe that's the problem," she said. "When I talked to her, I got the sense she was a bit of a control freak. Kind of like you. I know you don't particularly like taking advice, especially from me." Brad couldn't argue with that. "Plus, I don't blame her for getting ticked off about the Dave issue. You should've come clean right away. If I were in her shoes, I'd think you slept with me to get information and make me say yes." Brad looked out the window, hoping Lyon wouldn't see the guilt on his face. Okay, so maybe he came on to Jenna at Dave's party hoping it would smooth the way for merger talks, but when they slept together, it was because he…loved her. That didn't change how it looked from her end. If he were in her shoes, he'd think he was a sleazeball too. "Seeing my point now?" Lyon asked. Brad nodded.

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"Good. Now get back to Detroit so you can grovel in person. Women love a good grovel."

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Chapter Seventeen

Jenna shuffled into her office, bleary-eyed. She dreaded yet another day of conference calls with Brad's team, staff meetings with her own, contract reviews, media inquiries, and client presentations. Cleaning up Dave's mess only added to the stress. And then there was her pesky broken heart to deal with. “Brad, please help me. I can't do this by myself.” Jenna didn't realize she'd said the words aloud until Veronica popped her head into the office. "Did you need something?" she asked. "No." Veronica shrugged. "Okay, but I thought I heard you say you needed help." "I'm fine, really," Jenna said. "I'm all set by myself, thanks." She had hoped saying the words aloud would make her believe it. There were days when she felt like she was still a little girl pretending she was a hotshot lawyer. This was one of those days. An imposter day, she called it. She knew she should have felt some triumph. Brad's partners didn't hold the

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embezzlement mess against her. By all accounts, she should've been happy. The bad guy lost. She would still have a job, and Brad had promised to protect the associates and staff who stayed with her and joined his firm. She'd done her job. And yet she had never felt worse in her life. No matter how successful she made the metropolitan Detroit office of Tremaine & Cole, she'd always remember how it started -with Brad's calculated, manipulative kiss. Jenna pulled out a compact and checked her reflection. Lack of sleep over the past few weeks had taken their toll. There were dark circles under her eyes that makeup couldn't hide. She'd endured too many restless nights reaching her arms for someone who wasn't there. She wished she didn't miss Brad, especially after what he'd done. He could've been a professional actor by the way he could fake caring, sincerity, openness. He'd been so convincing Jenna had even imagined he loved her. Apparently, wishful thinking fooled even the most rational minds. There was a hesitant knock before the door opened a few inches. "Jenna, you have a visitor," Veronica said. Before Jenna could protest, the door opened wider and Brad slipped inside. The door closed behind him with a quiet click, leaving an expanse of silence stretching between them. A heavy weight pressed against her chest. Brad looked as rough as she felt. He still looked polished at first glance, but Jenna noticed the work-reddened eyes, the wrinkled

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shirt , the loosened tie and rolled-up shirtsleeves. "Brad." It hurt to even say his name. "You look like you could use some help," Brad said, nodding toward the boxes piled against the wall. "Don't worry, though, I remember what you said last time. You don't need my help." "So why are you here? Social call?" "Jenna, please," Brad said. To her surprise, he looked hurt. She forced herself to remain still as he approached her desk. Every cell in her body wanted to meld against him. She couldn't stand the tortured look on his face. "I wanted to give this to you," Brad said. He held out a black wooden box . A gift was the last thing Jenna had expected. She slowly stood up and stepped around the protective shield of her desk until she was a few feet away from him, close enough to accept the box but far enough to keep his gesture from seeming intimate. Despite her precautions, Brad's fingers brushed against hers as she took the box. Her breath caught when his fingertips brushed against her hands. She'd missed the feel of his skin against hers. "What is this for?" Jenna said. "Consider it a peace offering. Or a gift to celebrate your new job. Whatever you want it to mean." Jenna sensed Brad was trying a bit too hard to be accommodating. "Should I open it now or wait until you're gone?" she said. "Whatever you'd like to do."

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"Okay, I'll open it later." She set the box down on her desk. Jenna couldn't believe the willpower it took to override her curiosity, but her pride won out. She started to walk back behind her desk when she felt his hand close over hers. Jenna bit her lip, then took the box and sat in one of the guest chairs. Her fingers trembled as she fussed with the brass latch. Nestled in the box was a model of her beloved Porsche, a duplicate of the one Dave had smashed. Jenna blinked back her tears as she gently lifted the model car from its velvet nest. "Brad, you didn't have to get me anything." "I noticed your other model was gone. Veronica filled me in on the details of what happened to it. I knew how much it meant to you, and I felt responsible for it. For a lot of things." Jenna placed the car back into the box. "It's beautiful,” she said. "Thank you. You didn't have to do that." "Yes, I did," Brad said. He sat on the arm of the guest chair, his thigh mere inches from Jenna's hand. She looked at him, not quite believing he was here, close enough to touch again. She couldn't imagine what he had to say to her now, after he had gotten everything he wanted from her. He said the gift was a peace offering. Did he realize how much he'd hurt her? "I'm sorry for not telling you about what Dave said," he said. Jenna plucked at her pants leg. " Yet you went ahead and got me to sleep with you anyway. Congratulations."

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Brad grabbed her hand, forcing her to look at him. "Jenna, I'd be lying if I said things didn't start out that way, at least a little bit." Her heart sank even further. She tried to pull her hand away, but Brad cupped his other hand over hers. "But I wouldn't be here if something hadn't changed. These past few weeks without you have been miserable. I made a huge mistake for not telling you everything, for not trusting you enough to understand. I let my ego get in the way. I did the right thing for your firm but the wrong thing to you. That's no way to treat someone I love." Jenna mustered a small smile. "You're not the only one dealing with ego issues," she said. "I should have realized you were trying to reach out when you offered your help. I can understand why you were upset when I threw it back in your face." "For people who are supposed to have all the answers, we really don't know what we're doing," Brad said. Jenna laughed and leaned against him, wanting to feel more of his reassuring warmth against her. "We'll figure it out together," she said. Brad helped Jenna out of the chair and slipped his arms around her, crushing her against his body. His fingers tangled in her hair as he pressed a kiss against her lips, tentatively at first, then more hungrily, more insistent, leaving both of them breathless. "I missed you," Brad whispered against her neck. He planted a kiss behind her ear. "I missed us." "Me too," Jenna said. His next kiss left her gasping for air. "Can you sneak out of work early tonight?" she asked. "We need to make up for a lot of lost time."

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"I think I can arrange that." With her kiss, Jenna let Brad know he was welcome to help her any time, in any way he wanted. She no longer needed to prove she could do everything on her own. She knew that true strength meant admitting when she wanted someone by her side.

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We hope you enjoyed Hard Bargain, a sensual contemporary romance debut novella from author Grace Wen. Keep an eye out this October for the sequel, Hard To Handle, at our website, www.aspenmountainpress.com. For news of more stories from Grace or any of our other writers, please join

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