Teddi Turns On

WARNING This e-Book contains material that may be considered offensive by some: explicit sexual encounters; graphic language, adult situations. Please store your e-Book carefully where it cannot be accessed by underage readers.

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TEDDI TURNS ON

Sloane Taylor

Aspen Mountain Press

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Teddi Turns On Copyright © June 2008 by Sloane Taylor

This e-Book is a work of fiction. While references may be made places or events, the names, characters, incidents, and locations within are from the author’s imagination and aer 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

Published by Aspen Mountain Press, June 2008 www.AspenMountainPress.com Originally published by Triskelion Publishing 2006

This e-Book is licensed to the original purchaser 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: 978-1-60168-115-7 Published in the United States of America Editor: Heather Aguilar Cover artist: Celia Kyle

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Acknowledgements There are special people who shoved me in the right direction. Beth Anderson wielded her infamous 2x4 with a velvet touch. Jan Springer advised me to quit my day job. Yasmine Phoenix offered insight and humor. My daughter, who hasn’t always been happy with the path I’ve walked, but was and is proud of me. Mike Burke supported me as he gently nagged me forward. Thank you all, for without each and every one of you I wouldn’t be here.

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Chapter One

David Stiefel’s eyes kept track of the copper-haired female while he rolled up the sleeves of his striped shirt. The woman was oblivious to the stir she created as she strolled through the crowded O’Hare Airport Business Class Lounge. He stroked an index finger over his lips and studied her sleek figure in form fitting slacks. The appealing rear view was too good to miss. The pleasure of not seeing a panty line forced him to shift in his chair to adjust the sudden pull in his jeans. She bent over, hung her jacket across the chair back, and glanced over her shoulder at him. Their gaze held as a smile tweaked the corner of his mouth. He crumpled the wrappings from his beef sandwich and knew he’d just been offered dessert. Now all he had to do was make his move. As his good luck would have it, right there on the floor, just a few meters away was an airline ticket dropped by some unsuspecting person.

He knew that delicious

looking woman had done it as a ploy to meet him. He stood and paced off the few steps, never taking his eyes from her. He stooped, scooped up the packet, and walked the few extra feet before he glanced at the name printed in bold marker across the front. When he held it toward her she fumbled with her purse and carry-on as if she didn’t know she’d lost such an important set of documents. Very cool. Standing in front of her, he leaned down just enough to catch her scent. Shalimar. His favorite. 6

“Bitte, Frau, are you missing something?” He liked the way her eyes widened as if she were surprised. She was good. “Thank you.” She reached out a slender hand. Thank God there wasn’t any of that garish nail art so many women seemed to prefer. **** Teddi stared out the rain-streaked windows at the busy tarmac. Her mind so absorbed with the Munich tour operator, who had done 180 degrees on their contract, she barely acknowledged the parade of jets taxiing along the horizon or the sexy man who had found her airline tickets. Sick at heart, she feared this was the end of her long established company as profits were eaten up by the extra hours spent to pacify her exasperated clientele. Every phone call into her busy travel agency had been from an agitated customer ready to blame her for the radical changes to the European tour they had paid a hefty dollar to enjoy. Maybe she’d better make one last phone call in the hope that the damn Bavarian tour operator, who had been screwing with her head, had finally grown some balls and decided to do the right thing. She flipped open her cell phone, and, after two rings, heard Francine Daniels, the sovereign of all office managers, answer. “It’s me, Francie. Any word from Munich?” She held her breath, praying for good news. “No, doll, no word from Fritz the Faker. I took the liberty of calling the bank. Sorry to add more woe to an already crappy day, but he’s cashed that big check you insisted on sending him. We’re in a world of hurt if he doesn’t follow through on his contract.” “I’m not going to let this crook get away with it.” The collected front she presented to the world would not crumble. “So get going, Theodora. Your flight should be ready to board.” 7

A familiar image of Francine, with her reading glasses three-quarters down her nose and the infamous letter opener waving in her left hand, popped into her mind. “Please, I detest that name. It sounds so, I don’t know, Old World?” “Well, that’s where you’re going, kid. I envy you. It would be great to get away for awhile. Think of all those sexy foreign guys.” Teddi shook her head. A new man in her life was the last thing she needed. Or wanted. “Look, Teddi. You’ve got a golden opportunity with this trip to start a new life. Don’t you think it’s time you took off your ring?” “No. I don’t.” She twisted the simple gold band around her finger, hurt by the insensitive suggestion. “You’re a widow. It’s time you stopped hiding out in this office and move on. Eligible men aren’t falling from the sky.” “And I don’t care if they are. Give it up.” “Go on your trip, relax, get a massage. Have a little fun. Meet a man. Get laid,” said the irascible Francine. “It’s time, Teddi. Matthew would want you to be with someone.” God, how she missed her husband and the intimacy of marriage. The sex had been great and it sure beat the hell out of aspirin to get rid a headache. She was so tense and frustrated she’d do just about anything to get some relief. She closed her eyes, rotated her head, and heard enough cracks and pops to make her crave a good massage. The darkened room and soft music helped her to relax. She stretched out on the table, shifting just enough to take the pressure off her nipples. Her arms hung limply over the table edge as she watched the masseur enter. With the soft snick of the lock, she realized they were alone. There she was, naked except for the warm towel draped across the swell of her butt. There he was, all male and tanned with a white tee shirt stretched across his rock-hard chest. A trace of something spicy floated around her just as his warm hands slid up her spine. She couldn’t stop the moan that escaped as he rubbed purposefully to relieve the tension in her shoulders. Everything felt so good. His slick hands gliding down her torso, the music, the warm

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oil, ooh especially those hands as they took control of her muscles and thoughts. His thumbs pressed deeper into her tight flesh as his fingers spread across her back. The warmth skittering over her skin was so intimate and welcome, reminding her of all that she missed. He pushed firmer, sliding up, down, and out. His fingers skimmed the side of her breast. She held her breath. A deep chuckle filled the room. “You like?” “Oh, yes.” She twisted to relieve the tingling in her nipples, exposing her breast. His index finger traced her puckered aureole as his palm massaged her, making her vagina swell. The towel dipped as he moved lower and stroked her butt. His long fingers slid between her cleft, setting off sensations she’d only dreamt about. Her hips jerked as he moved lower yet. Somehow the scrap of cloth had disappeared. He shifted her legs apart as he caressed her thighs. His fingers delved higher until they lightly stroked… “Hello, earth to Teddi.” Francine jumped right in, shocking her back to the present. “I’ll see you in a few weeks. I’ll be dying to hear about all your adventures. And you’d better have some to report.” She slammed the phone closed, wiped her clammy hands down her thighs, not giving a rat’s ass if the sweat streaked the silk. She’d had enough and wasn’t going to take any more. Teddi Howard wasn’t a woman to lie down and pull the casket lid over her own face. Hell no. She’d face this German screw up and force him to follow through on their contract or he could personally explain to forty-seven people why he’d ruined their vacations. **** Back at his chair, David watched her reflection in the window and couldn’t figure out why she had seized his interest. Sure she had great tits and a fantastic ass, but he wasn’t a lech. Yet something about the woman made his cock jump to attention and all decent thoughts flip right out of his brain.

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She was obviously enjoying whatever her thoughts were.

That sexy little

expression gave her away, but not as much as the slow way she crossed her legs and squeezed her thighs together. What he wouldn’t give to be inside her head right now. Or better yet, inside her. Hot and wet. His two favorite sensations. The possibility of being seated next to her on his flight to Germany brought on a strong desire to join the Mile High Club, an elite group he’d never before considered. He slid down in the chair, crossed his legs at the ankles, and explored his fantasy. The light was passing into dark as she lifted his hand to her full mouth, sucking one finger at a time, while her smoldering gaze held his. His other hand roamed over her thin blouse and pulled it from her waistband. His fingers brushed her soft skin, inching up to free her incredible breasts. Soft kitten sounds from deep in her throat filled his ears, as his thumb and forefinger pinched and tugged on her engorged nipple. Her face turned up, anticipating his kiss. He swiped his tongue over her hot lips before plunging in, imitating his strongest desire. He worked her zipper free, then slid her slacks down over her hips and filled his hands with her perfect, rounded ass. She kicked off the restrictive clothes and climbed atop him after freeing his cock from his painfully tight jeans. Her long legs straddled his hips. When the heat from her pussy touched the tip of his cock, he plunged into her, praying for an air pocket to drive him in deeper, taking his sensation higher. His name was wrenched from her ripe mouth as he pounded… “Mr. Stiefel.” Why in the hell would she call him mister at a time like this? “Mr. Stiefel, your flight for Munich is boarding.” A shrill voice burst into his perfect daydream, shattering the hot fantasy, but not crushing the biggest hard-on of his life. **** Once aboard the jet, Teddi was escorted to her seat by a flight attendant. She

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stowed her carry-on, sat, and then buckled the seatbelt. It didn’t take long to realize no one would be next to her. Even though Business Class was spacious and private, the empty seat was an added luxury. “Madam, would you like a glass of champagne or orange juice?” asked another attendant. “Champagne, please.” She knew alcohol would dehydrate her on the long flight. Her hands tended to swell on Inter-Continental trips. But hey, what the hell. She kicked off her shoes then bent to slide them under her seat and caught the glint of her gold wedding band. Never once had she considered removing it since Matthew died. She tugged at the band to pull it free, amazed at how easily it slid off, and a little sick at heart that it did. She lifted her hand and stared at the pale, indented skin left behind. Her fingers wrapped around the ring. With a heavy sigh she tucked it safely into her coin purse, wondering if doing this was for comfort or to get on with her life. “Newspaper, madam?” the purser asked. “No, thank you.” She’d come well prepared for the journey with books by her favorite authors. Murder and romance, what more could she want? She smiled and pulled out the hot bestseller. Her tension eased when the massive plane lifted off. She glanced up and noticed the black haired man across the aisle.

She

remembered him from the crowded airport lounge, where she hadn’t been able to keep her eyes off him even before he returned her tickets. He was a big guy with large hands and an aura of power that would make a teamster cringe. Thoughts of the magic his strong-looking hands could perform and guilt over not staying true to her husband collided as the g-force increased. He stared back at her and heat crawled up her neck. Maybe her kid sister Eleanor was right. She should’ve bought a handy dandy portable lover. It certainly would’ve solved a few of her problems. She gazed out at the darkening sky and cold gray clouds, while images of life with Matthew skated through her mind. He had known how to arouse her. He’d cup her breasts while his thumbs rhythmically stroked her nipples. Even though he wasn’t

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a man to experiment, it never really mattered, she had liked the warmth and comfort that had swept over her. It was impossible to consider another man in that position. Everything known and secure was gone. Now there was no one to share with and discuss her day-to-day joys or problems.

She missed those conversations.

It had

always been easy for her to exchange thoughts and ideas with him. Theirs had been a good bond, a strong marriage based on mutual respect. But the thought of another man in her life was too scary to consider. Another man kissing her, touching her. She wasn’t sure she could handle that. It mirrored cheating. She wiggled down in her seat. Maybe her friends were right, it was time to put away all of his pictures and give his clothes to charity. Enough time had passed to make the next move, to get on with reality. It was a hard decision but one she would have to make. Soon. She was abruptly jerked from her reverie. “Excuse me, madam. Here’s your dinner menu,” said the flight attendant. “I’ll be back to take your order.” “Thank you.” She tossed the menu onto the empty seat, swallowed the last of her drink, and let her mind drift again. Somehow more problems surfaced daily. With the stock market’s sharp decline, her IRA and financial security were greatly reduced. But the kicker was the group tour to Germany that had fallen through. It was the package every agency owner dreamt of, sold out almost instantly, and profitable. Lord knew she needed the money. Now she’d have to refund the clients and work harder to keep her company’s reputation up. She needed a stroll to exercise her tired muscles and get over her melancholy. Rising from her seat, she glanced up to make sure the aisle was clear. Again she noticed the man across the way, green eyes the color of sage- her favorite herb- grinning in a self-satisfied over-confident way. Flustered, she spun on her heel and walked down the aisle, not before she registered the way his shoulders filled out his striped broadcloth shirt. An hour later the purser came through and served a tasty supper of fresh salad and roasted chicken. After the dishes were cleared away, Teddi hoisted her carry-on to

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the empty seat and rummaged for a tube of lip gloss. Instead, her hand touched a small package. Taped to the gift was a card filled with wishes for a wonderful trip. She grinned at the naughty postscripts her employees had written. Being the youngest in the office, the women had always teased her about sex. Anxious to see the contents, she peeled off the ribbon and paper, flipped the lid, and held up a filmy apricot nightie. Heat burned her cheeks when she caught the amused stare from the man across the aisle. His raised eyebrow irritated her. But when he grinned and lifted his wine glass in a mock salute, it was more then she could tolerate.

She crammed the delicate

garment back into her bag, shooting him a sharp glare. Confused over whether she was angry with him or herself for the sensation that tingled low in her body, she snapped her head in the opposite direction and stared out the window into the black night. **** Very sensual, thought David as the woman stuffed the sexy scrap of material into her case. He wanted to see her model it, just for him. Without thought, he attacked the attendant’s call button. A lanky man responded. “May I get something for you, sir?” “Yes, Peter,” he answered, lowering his eyes to read the man’s nametag. “That lady in 8A is familiar. We were introduced at a charity fund raiser last year and I don’t want to embarrass myself by saying something wrong. Is her name Howard?” “Yes it is, sir, Mrs. Theodora Howard. Is there anything else I can do for you?” “Neine, danke. I appreciate the information.” He settled deeper into the plush seat and thought about the intriguing Mrs. Howard as his gaze roamed over her. She had beautiful hair, clear fresh skin with just a hint of blush, and a trim figure. The hint of sensuality that slipped through her sedate exterior called to his dick to come out and play. Her slender gold earrings and thin neck chain enhanced her appearance. But she wore no rings. How unusual for a married woman. Perhaps a little trouble in paradise, he thought, swirling the ice in his drink. No matter how much he tried to block it out,

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he could not help but wonder if her hair smelled of Shalimar instead of hair spray. His fingers itched to touch the short curls. He wound a strand around his finger and gently tugged. She willingly moved into him, her moist lips parted, the sweetness of her scent filling his nostrils. She snaked her hand across his lap. Before he could capture her mouth she dipped her head to seize… “Mr. Stiefel?” Sonovabitch. “What?” he snapped. “Excuse me, sir. Would you like a bottle of water?” With a dismissive wave he sent the attendant away, thinking a bathtub full of the stuff wouldn’t cool him off. He raked his hands through his hair, turned, and by the soft lighting of the galley, watched her sleep. Her face clouded and cleared as if her dreams were tormented. The lightweight blanket slipped from her shoulders. Unable to stop himself, he rose from his seat and stepped across the aisle. Kneeling in the close quarters, a hint of her tantalizing perfume surrounded him, reminding him of the things he’d always loved about women. Carefully, so as not to startle her should she awaken, he restored the cover. An errant curl had fallen across her cheek. His fingers tentatively replaced the stray lock. Soft and not a trace of spray. His index finger grazed along her cheek. She stirred. Her lips quivered and parted. It took the beasts of hell to keep him from kissing her lush mouth. With regret, he forced himself to return to his seat. **** Dawn arrived much too soon in Teddi’s opinion. She wasn’t at all happy with the early hour, or the lack of sleep, or the sneaky crew who had opened the window shades to rouse the passengers. Or maybe it was the peaceful dream of Matthew that sharply altered into the stranger across the aisle making her grouchy. His square

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masculine jaw and shoulders that went beyond the realm of possibility had floated through her mind, while his hooded eyes shamelessly contemplated her. She had the distinct sensation of a gentle touch that left a trail of heat along her cheek and the maddening desire to guide that finger into her mouth. To combat the insanity taking control, she stretched, working the kinks out of her muscles and the pictures from her mind. She exercised her shoulders and rotated her head to see the unwanted subject of her dream, with his long muscular legs clad in tight jeans stretched out and a bulge that made her take a second look. “Mrs. Howard, would you like breakfast?” asked the attendant as she rolled the service cart to a halt, successfully cutting off her view. “We have ham and cheese omelets and yogurt.” “Yogurt and orange juice will be fine. Thank you.” Still feeling groggy, she stretched again, her internal clock already out of sync. After the light meal she needed to freshen up. On the walk back to her seat, she again saw him looking at her. His full lips in a sexy half-smile sent a shiver through her. At the sight of that smile, last night’s intimate dreams swept through her mind. She covered her discomfort with annoyance. There he sits, she thought, so smug, stroking his jaw like some ancient king holding court. She pulled herself straighter in an attempt to prove he had no effect on her, until she realized her breasts jutted out and looked more like an invitation than a dismissal. In no time the jet arrived at the Munich airport and many of the passengers clapped in praise of the captain’s smooth landing. Teddi gathered her things and looked forward to breathing fresh air.

She

stepped into the aisle, bumped into her solidly built neighbor, and gasped. His sharp eyes fired electric charges through her body right before his warm spicy scent filled her lungs. He stepped aside and with a slight bow, allowed her to pass. Against her will, she felt her hips doing their Marilyn Monroe thing as she walked toward the jet way.

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Chapter Two

“Either these bags gained weight or I’m tired,” she grumbled, after another worthless attempt to yank her cases off the carousel. “Guten Morgan, Frau.” The deep-timbered voice of her handsome neighbor from the plane sounded in her ear. She turned to see his eyes slowly survey her body. Inwardly cursing him, she pulled her blazer closer to cover her puckering nipples. “May I be of some assistance?” he asked. “It—ah—seems heavier now than when I left Chicago.” His frame was so big and tall that at five-eight she felt petite by comparison. “Damn, it’s got to go around again. Yes, I guess I do need help.” “I would be happy to handle anything you require, Frau,” he said, his full lips tipped in that irritating grin. “Ah—yes…. Lifting the bags should be sufficient,” she stammered, unsure of what was happening, far too aware of this stranger. The carousel returned her cases after what seemed an eternity. His large wellmanicured hands pulled both bags from the conveyor with little effort. When his leather jacket pulled taut across his broad shoulders she couldn’t stop staring, which further irked her. “Thank you, I appreciate the help,” she said through tight lips. “The pleasure is all mine, Frau, and you are welcome. May I be of any further assistance?” he asked, obviously not wanting to let her go. 16

“No, thank you. This should do it.” She turned on her heel and marched off, dragging the wheeled bags behind. She couldn’t help it, she glanced back to see him inspecting her with that damned irritating grin spread across his face, his own luggage apparently forgotten. After clearing immigration and customs, Teddi walked through the airport to a taxi queue. She waited her turn and was rewarded with a driver who spoke perfect English, which was good because she couldn’t remember enough German to do more then ask directions to the toilet. The driver was more knowledgeable than most tour guides and reassured her that the city was perfectly safe for a lady touring on her own. She enjoyed his humor but didn’t have the heart to share with him she had visited Munich before on business. She stretched out her legs, grateful the Mercedes absorbed the shock of the cobblestone roads, and watched the familiar sights of the city fly by. A short time later the cabby dropped her at the hotel and called a cheery ‘Auf Wiedersehen’ as he drove away. Heicke Brewer, the gentle-mannered hotel manager, welcomed her back and personally saw to her registration. “I am sorry to have to offer you my condolences, Frau Howard. Herr Howard was much respected. I am late in saying this, but I did not know until Francine faxed over your reservation he had passed on,” he said as they walked to the elevator. She noted his grimace, aware this initial meeting was difficult for him. It wasn’t her favorite topic of conversation either. “Thank you, Herr Brewer. It’s always a comfort to hear a friend remember Matthew. He was a good man.” Room 421 turned out to be a beautiful suite that overlooked the two majestic spires of the Frauenkirche, Munich’s most famous landmark. A porter brought the luggage, explained all the highlights of her room, and with a generous tip in hand bowed out the door. She strolled through the living room, filled with over-stuffed furniture in a combination of soft blues and pale yellows. The carved, antique writing desk was well 17

cared for and glowed with a patina softened by age. She bent over the large bouquet of fresh, colorful flowers that spilled from the cut crystal vase and breathed in the sweet fragrance. The tranquil atmosphere worked magic on her travel-weary body. On the coffee table a plate of rich petit fours and chilled champagne called her name. After she removed the foil wrapper, the cork came away easily enough with a slight twist and a pleasant “pop” echoed in the empty room. A smile sprang to her lips. Herr Brewer had outdone himself. She raised the flute and toasted his health and generosity. Glass in hand, she continued to explore. She walked into the bedroom and found the windows had been thrown open, the crisp fall air drifted into the room. Below them sat an enticing king-sized bed. Her hand trailed across the feather duvet. She was sorely tempted to lie down and forget the world. However, she forced herself to take a pass on the inviting yellow sheets. A nap would never allow her internal clock to catch up with the European time zone. The open closet door revealed a room with built-in drawers, a cheval mirror and three walls of clothes hangers. Everything was right at hand and very comfortable for her home away from home. She decided a quick wash would set her straight before the tedious job of unpacking. She glanced around the bathroom and nodded her approval. There weren’t any of those low-watt bulbs that made travelers think they’d suddenly gone blind. Across the room a privacy partition hid the bidet. She giggled as a memory flashed through her mind of her first attempt to use one. In Paris, just after she and Matthew had had sex. She hadn't been exactly sure how to use the unique porcelain device and approached it like a child’s first visit to the dentist. Her silk robe had shifted open when she bent down to test the faucets and a blast of cold water had shot up and drenched her. Matthew had roared with laughter when he came in answer to her shrieks. She had playfully slapped at him to cover her embarrassment as he lifted the sodden strands of hair off her flushed cheeks, then he had kissed her sweetly, which deepened into passion before he carried her back to bed for an afternoon of gentle sex. Sadness touched her as she began the dreaded job of unpacking.

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She pulled out a dress. These weren’t her clothes. She flipped over the luggage tags to find her name in bold print. A white envelope slid to the floor. Feeling like a voyeur peeking through a keyhole, she removed a hand-written page to discover familiar writing. Hi, Sis, Hope you arrived safely and without incident, unless pleasant. I know the contents of your suitcases seem a bit strange. But your closet was bare and you haven’t had anything new in years. So, I took it upon myself to go shopping. Since you’re a perfect size 12 it was great fun. Hope the shoes fit. That worried me a little. I think you’ll be happy once you get over the initial shock. I’ll call you tonight. I love you, Lonnie P.S. I did return your credit card. Teddi lifted the new clothes from the case, positive that Santa had come early. Her eyes popped. The first garment was a calf-length dress of lightweight wool in a rich shade of maroon, followed by a short chartreuse leather jacket. She reached in again and discovered a silk butterscotch colored suit. The narrow mid-calf skirt draped gracefully as she held it up for inspection. She bent over the bag to see more soft silky garments along with several matching scarves. So much for letting your kid sister pack. How on earth does she expect me to use all these clothes? Or cover the cost of the unexpected shopping spree? The phone rang and she jumped. It was Eleanor, checking to see if she had arrived safely. During the short conversation Teddi described her flight but omitted anything embarrassing.

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“Don’t worry,” said Lonnie after she had described her workday, the information sketchy at best. She always minimized the dangers of her patients. Her voice softened. “Have a wonderful trip. I miss you and love you.” “I promise to call you often just to make sure you’re well and safe.” Teddi forced the image of a prison riot with some barbaric man holding Eleanor hostage from her mind. About to hang up, she added, “Thanks for all the exquisite clothes.” “Did you open both cases?” “No, I’ve just scaled the first mountain.” “Uh—well, gotta go.” The connection went dead. Suspicious, Teddi ran to the closet and flung open the lid of the second case. She gasped when she lifted out a sheer cinnamon bra and skimpy thong. Her fingers held the intimate garments as if they were contaminated. She delved in deeper and found an assortment of dainty lingerie and sheer nighties in every imaginable color. She choked when she saw the two lacy garter belts at the bottom of the case. “I’ll kill her. Is she nuts? I’ll look like a tramp in these things.” The words bounced off the walls. “Not a single set of my old cotton stand-bys. Where the hell are my flannel jammies?” A tear slid down her cheek as she touched the delicate lingerie. Thoughts of the nights when she’d wanted to wear such things, but Matthew thought they were absurd, skidded through her mind. Time to get the hell out of Dodge.

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Chapter Three

Excitement built as Teddi walked the two short blocks to Munich’s main tourist attraction, a section of the city she’d always enjoyed. Yet it was a little scary to visit the area alone.

She forced herself to relax, put aside any negative emotions, and

concentrate on the now, not the past. Walking into the Marion Platz was like stepping back in time. Old men and blond-haired boys, outfitted in the traditional Bavarian costume of long leather shorts, went about their daily business while women in folkloric dresses strolled through the square, wicker baskets dangling from their arms. Her mind’s eye eliminated all the Nikes and Levis to gain the full effect of the historic square. When her stomach growled, she decided that was enough imagination. Well, perhaps just a little more. She giggled and peeked into a courtyard café with a delightful matrix of colorful umbrellas shading embroidered linen tablecloths.

A mustached

waiter smiled and beckoned her to enter. Without another thought she crossed the threshold into fantasyland. “Bitte, Frau, I have a nice table for you.” He led her to a small wrought iron table next to a marble fountain splashing in the sun. He wrote down her order of local white wine and left behind a menu. She removed her sunglasses and glanced around. The tables were filled with men and women enjoying tall glasses of beer, large doughy pretzels laden with rock

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salt, and plates of aromatic food. Small children played in the warm sun while their parents relaxed with cups of cappuccino. The speisenkarte probably offered many wonderful dishes, unfortunately the menu was written in German. She struggled with the language, making a concerted effort to translate the selections. Apart from recognizing the words for salad and meat, the rest just wouldn’t click. Defeated, she set the leather bound card aside. The waiter returned with the wine. Her mouth watered when he recommended a fresh leaf salad accompanied by a sautéed veal cutlet. A heated discussion across the way caught her attention.

One of the men

glanced at her. Surprised, she found herself confronted by the stormy eyes of her overbearing neighbor from the airplane. Electricity jolted across the patio and straight into the pit of her stomach. She pressed her hand into her abdomen to deflect the sensation. He would be a formidable adversary, hard and ruthless, she thought, grateful his anger wasn’t directed at her. Heat crept up her cheeks as her imagination took over. He crossed the courtyard and stopped at her table. She raised her head, mesmerized by his dark green eyes. Her tongue flicked across her dry lips. He snaked out a hand and clamped onto her wrist, jerked her from the chair, and pulled her to his solid body, his massive erection pressed hard into her abdomen. She shivered at the contact. Of its own volition, her arm curved around his neck pulling his head to her hungry mouth. His arm swung over the tabletop, sending dishes and glasses crashing to the ground. His blazing eyes held hers as he hiked up her skirt, slid down her panties, and spread her across the table. She combed her hand down his broad chest, hooking onto his belt buckle. His zipper gave way and she slipped her hand inside to stroke his… **** “Well, David, what do we have here?” Claus sneered, glancing at the attractive woman across the patio fanning herself. “Finally, someone to pique a little interest in

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my workaholic cousin.” “No, Claus, just a casual observation. I am quite sure the lady is waiting for a friend, or perhaps her husband,” answered David, feeling not at all calm inside his heated body. To see her again so soon sent his over-active imagination into high gear. His fingers tingled where he had touched her skin. His nostrils flared as the air seemed to fill with her scent. The only sense not engaged was taste. He glanced once again in her direction, confident that desire would soon be fulfilled. Claus, obviously bored, reverted to their argument. “David, you demand too much. How can I possibly sit in a dull office all day and shuffle papers? My life is for living. I have other interests to pursue. I, too, shall make a name for myself,” he complained like a grumpy child. “You love to slave behind a desk. I am a man who enjoys tennis, skiing, and women, particularly the women. I cannot conform to your explicit ways.” “We need to make this expansion to continue being profitable,” said David. “You are fully aware we are being scrutinized by the government. We must have every aspect of our businesses above reproach.” Exasperated, his blood began to boil. Why his spoiled cousin would not comprehend the importance of this audit amazed him. Claus had to shoulder some responsibility for the company. It was his income, and a handsome one at that, not some infantile game to play at will. Waving the waiter away he continued, “Are you single-handedly trying to destroy Stiefel, Ltd.?

How can you continue to submit these outrageous expense

reports which are not justified?” Disgusted, he flung the papers onto the table. “Simple, these wonderful businesses you fret so over, owe me,” rasped Claus, his face an ugly red. “Your company owes me more then you could ever imagine.” “That’s ridiculous.” “No. It is a fact,” spat out Claus. Hatred glowed in his eyes. “I bought you a fucking tour company. Now stay out of the shoe business!” David slammed his hand onto the table and the wine glasses lurched on impact. At an impasse, the men stood, their chairs scraped across the stone floor. As they

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walked among the crowded tables, David navigated their exit past Teddi. “Guten Tag, Frau,” greeted David. His eyes absorbed her. “Are you enjoying your visit?” “Why yes, thank you,” she answered, fidgeting with her napkin. “David, are you not going to introduce this lovely lady?” “Excuse me. Theodora, may I introduce my cousin Claus?” he reluctantly said. “And I am David Stiefel.” “Hello,” was all she could manage. She wondered how on earth he knew her name. There’d been no introductions at the airport. She glanced into his eyes, then slowly moved on to his hair ruffled by the breeze, his pronounced Adam’s apple set off by a tuft of dark chest hair, and down to his strong hands. Oh, those hands. With a mental shake she returned her attention to the conversation. “Auf Wiedersehen, Frau Howard. Perhaps we shall meet again.” Claus turned to leave, but not fast enough to hide the smirk on his face. “Wiedersehen, Theodora,” whispered David, his voice gruff. Her mouth went dry. It may have been a long time, but she knew passion when she heard it.

24

Chapter Four

Teddi decided a long hot bath was the best remedy for her confused mind. A flowery scent filled the room as she poured the colorful mixture of aromatic bath salts into the oversized tub. For an hour she lazed in her bath, trickling in more warm water to preserve the sensual feeling that had become essential. As the tension seeped from her weary mind and body, she realized she now had a new enigma, that odious man from the plane. Visions of his rugged body penetrated her mind as the beads of water trickled down her breasts. “Nope, I’m not in the market for a fling. That guy’s just too cocky.” If his hands give any indication of his size…. She groaned and slid beneath the bubbles. She stepped from the tub refreshed and hungry, then caught her reflection in the mirror. A decent looking woman with large firm breasts and pale nipples standing at attention stared back. Her hands slid across her slender waist and almost flat tummy down to her hips curving above a pair of long legs. Turning for a rear view, she saw a firm ass free of cellulite. Not too bad, she thought, but nothing the loss of five or ten pounds wouldn’t hurt. What did it matter? No one was ever going to see her naked. Sadness wavered across her face as the nights she spent alone swept through her mind. She shook off the bleak mood as she reached for a fluffy heated towel. The telephone burst out three short shrills. “Hello?” 25

“Will you accompany me to dinner?” asked a deep voice. “Excuse me?” “Theodora, it is David. Will you have dinner with me?” “I’m sorry. I think it would be better if I didn’t.” She hugged the towel to her as a shield against his voice. “Nonsense. It is getting late and you require nourishment,” he insisted. “I will be there in one half hour. Wiedersehen.” A distinct click sounded in her ear. How dare he order her around?

Who did he think he was?

She stopped

toweling her damp hair and wondered how the hell did he know her hotel? He’d crossed a line and she didn’t like it one bit. **** Much too soon a sharp rap sounded on her door. “Who’s there?” “David Stiefel, I have come to collect you.” “I’m—er—not very well. A little jet lag I think. Maybe we could do this another time.” It was difficult to remain polite, when in reality all she wanted to do was yell at him for being such a bully. “Theodora, please open the door. I do not like to sound as a frantic bridegroom to the other hotel guests.” That commanding tone of his really had to go. With one hand she opened the door a crack while the other clutched her robe. She was all too aware of being naked with only a sheer apricot robe between them. “I’m really too tired. Thought I’d just spend a quiet night in my room. Catch up on a few postcards, maybe a little reading. That sort of thing,” she said with a shrug. “We have no time to lose,” he said as he pushed through the door. “We have dinner reservations and must not be late.” She jumped back to avoid being run over by the human steamroller.

26

“You are not dressed.” Grumbling he marched to the bedroom. Funny how he knew the room's layout. He surveyed the closet and in a flash pulled out a silky black dress with a flared skirt. With the dress in one hand, his other gently nudged her into the bathroom. “Put this on, we have to hurry.” “Herr Stiefel, I really think…” she began. “David. Hurry, for there is much to do.” “Now look, mister, I don’t hold with anyone ordering me around like an underpaid servant.” Her face was on fire, but she didn’t have time to decide if it was from anger or embarrassment at standing there naked under the scrap of nylon that was supposed to pass for a robe. “Where I come from we are civil to people. Respect them. Is that a new concept for you?” Her hands flew to her hips and the apricot film separated to expose her breasts. Infuriated, embarrassed, and a myriad of other feelings she didn’t want to acknowledge rushed over her. She scooped up a wad of undies, turned, and slammed the bathroom door. **** He walked to the partially opened drawer and lifted a filmy, brownish thong. “Do you require anything more?” The words stuck in his throat as an image flashed in his mind of her dressed in the little garment, and nothing else. It would be his pleasure to peel off the thong. Slowly. With his teeth. Maybe he’d include those little black come-fuck-me-heels lying by the chair. His airport fantasy burst into his mind and cock. Yes, he’d definitely add the shoes. He reached down and adjusted his balls, hoping to alleviate the pressure. “This has gone far enough. I do not need your help.” She snatched open the door.

In two quick strides she faced him and seized the lingerie from his hand.

Electricity arced between them as their fingers brushed. He felt it and knew she did too when she yanked her hand back. “Yes—ah—please, sit,” he managed to choke out as the fragrance of woman 27

embraced him. He raised the hem of the long dress above her shapely knees. With one hand he cupped her slim foot, his other ready to position the suede pump. His palm slid up her calf of its own volition and she tensed. The rich sensation of stocking and skin beneath his fingers compelled him to explore uncharted territory. His hand glided north. With just a slight movement he could slide his hand to her soft thigh and then only a little further to slip his fingers into her sweet pussy.

His cock went into

overdrive, getting harder and throbbing, as the picture of her legs opened wide and his fingers spreading her wet folds became clearer in his mind. “Very nice,” he heard himself mutter. Her silky skin and provocative fragrance were driving him mad. He decided right then and there he would fuck her until his unruly dick begged for mercy. Whatever the cost, married or not, she would be his. “Really David, I think that at my age I can dress myself. Further assistance won’t be necessary.” She jumped to her feet. “On the contrary, meine Frau.” My woman! Where the hell did that come from? “I truly prefer to do the opposite.” **** The cool night sky blazed with stars. Teddi drew her sapphire cashmere cape closer for warmth. David dropped his arm across her shoulders and pulled her close. Startled, she wiggled to escape his grasp. “I do not like to escort a beautiful woman shivering from the cold.” “No, I’m fine. Jet lag or something. And I’m not used to dating. Not that this is a date.” She cleared her throat. It was the first time she’d been alone with a man since her husband died. She didn’t know this guy from Adam. Yet, here she was, in a situation that should have scared the hell out of her, but didn’t. She was tense but one look into his honest eyes eliminated any fear. “I mean—ah—I don’t know what I mean. I guess I’m not comfortable going out with a strange man. Especially a man like you.” “A man like me?” His large frame stiffened. 28

“Well, you have a very strong commanding presence.” She gulped as the words stumbled past her lips. “I do?” His tone was dry, but his eyes were smoky. “Er—yes—you know what I mean. I—I—this is so embarrassing.” She knew her face had turned scarlet, every word made the situation worse. If only she could stop rambling. “It is?” A smile tipped the corners of his mouth. “Stop it. You’re making fun of me. I’m uncomfortable enough without you making it worse.” “Why are you uncomfortable?” he continued to taunt her with that damned irritating grin that looked kind of sexy. “I don’t know. Well, yes I do. This makes me nervous. You make me nervous,” she admitted. He was too much male. So what the hell was she doing here if she didn’t want to have an affair? She’d never been a prick teaser. In fact, she’d never been anything but a schoolgirl who upgraded to wife and then was demoted to widow. “We must change that.” He spun her around. Hooded eyes devoured her. The intense look thrilled her, just before the alarm went off. She tried to step back. His arms wrapped tighter, scant inches between them. His head lowered. Breath caught in her throat as she stared into his hungry eyes just before her eyelids fluttered closed. Her hands slid along the sleeves of his cashmere coat up to his broad shoulders. She glanced at his face and was fascinated to see his skin pulled tight over his cheekbones. A soft moan escaped him as his mouth touched her lips, soft, teasing. But it wasn’t enough. She wanted more. Much more. She stepped into him. His hot tongue probed her lips apart. Her brain went on strike, the oxygen sucked from her lungs. Skyrockets blazed nonstop through her taut body. Warmth spread from head to toe, making her come alive. “I want you.” She scarcely heard the words over the blood pounding in her ears. His erotic tone flashed more heat deep into her vagina, already wet and throbbing. 29

His finger traced the curve of her swollen lips. He kissed her again, his mouth no longer gentle.

The kiss was predatory, primitive, nothing like she’d ever

experienced. She pressed into his hard body, surrendering to the desire. “Don’t. You have to stop. This isn’t right.” Her head jerked back, a three-alarm fire raged in her brain, her skin scorched from his touch. How could she feel this way, want this man, this complete stranger? “Nein, Liebschen, I cannot stop. You are so warm and responsive. I cannot help myself.” His body radiated heat through his clothes. “Please, I can’t do this. I have to leave.” Her resolve seriously in doubt, all she could think of was flinging herself into his arms and kissing him senseless. As if she didn’t have enough problems, now she was turning into some sex-starved maniac. Oh God, what had she gotten herself into? He was a Teutonic Knight and she was behaving like his serving wench. Never in all her life had she acted like a slut. He was, without a doubt, more than she could handle.

He was too handsome, too

powerful, and obviously expected more than she could deliver. Distance was the only solution or she’d hate herself. Fighting for self-control a little voice questioned, is he a black knight or a white knight? And really, which would you rather have? Shaking away the unwanted thought, suspicion wove itself through her brain. Somebody this good had to be married. She didn’t agree with cheating on your spouse and certainly wasn’t going to be a party to such a thing. She snuck a look at his hands. No ring. Didn’t mean a thing. Hundreds of self-appointed playboys were married with a house full of kids and never wore rings. Probably took it off and left it in the glove compartment of his car. Rotten bastard.

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Chapter Five

David raised his head, overwhelmed by the heat that soared through his veins and pulled at his cock. He had never expected this kiss to be all consuming and had never known such fierce desire. He wanted her as he had never wanted any other woman. He looked down into her eyes, eyes dark with passion. “Nein, Theodora, you will not leave me.” One kiss wasn’t enough. A lifetime of kissing her couldn’t satisfy the desire driving him. He needed so much more than her hot wet mouth. He needed to strip off every piece of her clothing, garment by garment, until she stood before him naked. He would lick every glorious inch of her before his tongue slipped into her hot pussy, sucking and licking, until she screamed out his name. Wolf whistles from a gang of skinheads, lurking under the street light, startled him back to his senses. His first thought was for her safety. With his equilibrium barely restored, he tucked her hand into the crook of his arm and strolled down the sidewalk, grateful for the darkness and the suit jacket that hid his pulsating cock. A few minutes later they reached a lively restaurant. She noticed the gilded sign that hung above the door ‘Spatenhaus e. V. 1643’ and asked what it meant.

He

explained the restaurant was founded in that year and had served meals ever since. The maitre d’ greeted David as if they were old friends, or more accurately, as if he were a preferred customer. It seemed even more so when the waiter, with great flourish, presented a complimentary bottle of white wine at their table. 31

An old man with bundles of fresh flowers in his arms approached them. “Mein Herr?” asked the peddler, gesturing a red rose towards her. “Ja, I will take two,” said David. The happy entrepreneur placed the fragrant long stems into her hand. “Danke, mein Herr.” The old man grinned as he pocketed the coins. With a little bow, he turned toward the next table. “Thank you, they’re beautiful,” she whispered, breathing in the sweet aroma, while her brain screamed married. “The color’s so rich, like burgundy wine. I’ve never seen roses like this.” “They are rare Berlin Roses, a hybrid developed in the Netherlands. However, a simple rose could never be as beautiful as you, Theodora.” He lifted his glass in a salute. She looked across the candlelit table into his eyes and realized a woman could get lost in those eyes, deep and full of promise. Once she got past his autocratic ways, he was warm and tender but had a reserve that when released would be awesome. Her insides quivered at the thought of being the woman to unleash the real David. The menu was in German. He selected the meal without asking her preferences. Yet, he checked her expression as if seeking her approval. For some indefinable reason she was quite satisfied with this arrangement. It was great to have someone else take charge and make the decisions for a change. “It is good. We will eat Blumenkohlsuppe, Zander Schittemit, Saure kartoffeln and Bohnensalat,” he announced to the waiter. “It might be good if I knew what your words meant. Translate please?” she asked as the waiter walked away. “I am sorry. Do you not know any German?” “Just the very basics.

I’m actually best at ordering two beers and asking

directions to the toilet.” Unfortunately, he didn’t understand the joke. Must be an American thing, she thought as heat crawled up her neck. “So please, what have you ordered? It sounds like a lot food.” 32

“We will start with cauliflower soup followed by walleyed pike in mustard sauce, sour potatoes, and green beans. I think you will enjoy the meal,” he said as he fanned the napkin across his lap. “Sounds wonderful.” She glanced around and noticed the whimsical décor of the two dining rooms, rustic in one, romantic in the other, and beamed ceilings painted with scenes of Munich’s medieval history. “It’s a beautiful restaurant.” “Are you content I invited you to join me for dinner?” he asked as he leaned into the table. Yeah, well, forced was more like it. “The jury is still out on that one.” She smiled at how appropriate the old cliché fit. “Sorry?” A puzzled look crossed his face. “Just another Americanism,” she said, still embarrassed by her earlier statement. “I see there is much to be learned from you, Theodora, and about you.” His gaze combed her face then stopped when they reached her lips. Yeah and I'd like to learn more about you too, Herr Do-you-have-a-wife, Stiefel. “About that Theodora stuff. I never liked the name and haven’t used it in years. Everyone calls me Teddi. I prefer it.” Her tone was polite, yet firm. “Do you? I prefer Theodora. There is charm to such a name. I shall continue to use Theodora,” he answered as if issuing a business directive. The man must hold a degree in aggravation. Her jaw stiffened. “Are you always so demanding and bossy? Do you ever consider other people have opinions that count?” “Theodora, you can be a very outspoken woman,” he said as he reached for her hand. Thankfully, the soup arrived. Okay, it was now or never, she thought. She couldn’t eat a thing unless she knew his marital status. How to do this with a little class? ‘Hey, are you married?’ ‘Do you and the wife come here often?’ Stop it. Just ask. Maybe she didn’t want to know the answer. Not good. Shove that thought right out the door.

33

“David, are you married?” Her eyes shot open, stunned by her own frankness. “Nein, Theodora. I have pride and honor. Never would I place a lady in such a situation.” His eyes brightened as he asked, “Roll?” Okay, that went well. Not. **** So, she questions if I am married. What about you, Frau? No little confession you wish to make at such an opportune moment? Perhaps I too should blurt out my question with as much sophistication. Then what would the charming Mrs. Howard have to say? Interesting, he thought as the waiter leaned across him. “Excuse me, sir,” he said as he set down a bowl of soup, deftly cutting off any further conversation. Each savory dish was served with a style that seemed to delight her. At least he thought so by her grin and the way her eyes sparkled. He was happy to see she wasn’t one who nibbled like a little bird, afraid of every calorie. She was a woman who ate with great enthusiasm and seemed to enjoy every mouthful. He also wondered if she approached sex with the same vigor. But he had to squelch a laugh as she picked apart the fish. “Theodora, what are you doing?” he asked after her fork tines screeched across the plate for the third time. “Nothing really, just trying to figure out the herbs the chef used to cook the fish. Why?” She glanced up and brushed a strand of hair from her cheek. “No, nothing. I was only curious,” he said, aware of his beautiful companion. Far too aware. He watched, fascinated, as the candlelight flickered across her face and her fork slipped past those luscious lips into the warm cavern of her mouth, caressing the tines as they slid back out. The muscles of her throat rose and fell in a seductive rhythm as she swallowed. A burst of flame raced through him, spinning south, as he pictured her head bent over him, sucking his cock, and his hands tangled in her hair. 34

He clutched his wine glass then tossed down the cool liquid. It did little to douse the fire burning in him. By unspoken agreement their conversation was kept basic and light. After the meal David ordered coffee and two Jagermeisters. “This may be a little harsh for you but excellent for the digestion,” he cautioned. “I’m not much of a drinker.” A small taste sent Teddi into a coughing spell. “Perhaps I could have Benedictine instead?’ she choked out as she reached for her water. He signaled to the waiter before he launched into his family’s life in Bad Wiessee, a village south of Munich. “My grandfather started as a cobbler and patiently taught his sons to tool quality footwear. He worked his entire life to make a business of which the family would be proud. But the war left its devastating effect on Germany and our business.” He reached for his drink. “Life was hard during the Occupation. My family attempted to maintain a semblance of balance in such stressful times. Oma, sorry, my grandmother, said their home was filled with love if not food.”

He took a sip,

wondering why he felt compelled to divulge all this information. “Germany was not allowed to rebuild its army until 1956. Then boots were needed for the hundreds of men called into service. Our quality was well-known and we received an exclusive contract.” Teddi sat back as the waiter set her drink down. She nodded a ‘thank you’. David stopped talking and fumbled with his napkin until the waiter was out of earshot. “In time, my Papa took over. The business was everything to my parents. They worked hard and seldom took time off for pleasure. It was quite a surprise when I was born many years later. Mutti, my mother, always said I was their gift from heaven.” Heat crawled up his neck and he glanced at her, wondering if she would laugh. “As a boy I worked in the factory sweeping floors, dumping trash, doing whatever chore was required. My parents, aunt and uncle worked twenty hours a day to advance the business my grandfather began.” His chest got heavy, just like every other time he let his thoughts slip into the 35

past. God, he loved his family. Now everyone was gone but Mutti and Claus. He sipped his drink, more to force down the lump in his throat than to satisfy any thirst. “My aunt and uncle were Claus’s parents. He was born two years after me.” Her face clouded over. Sadness seemed to wrap around her as if she too had lost someone important in her life. She was so beautiful, so gentle. An overpowering desire to touch her spiraled through him. He reached for her hand. After a heart stopping moment he kissed the soft skin of her palm. Her eyelids fluttered and she gasped. He cleared his throat. It was not the time to lose control. “As I grew older my parents educated me on the finer points of running the factory and managing the people. Most important was to never forget their belief; people worked for us, not machines. Then the 1980’s saw a change in our family’s prosperity.” He didn’t add that the business had increased ever since, leaving little time for a personal life. “It’s hard to think of a little boy enduring such a hard life,” she said. His shoulders sagged with relief when he realized her reaction was all he’d hoped for. No wheels of greed appeared to turn in her head, concocting plans to liberate his wallet. She certainly seemed as if she were a compassionate woman who took his words in stride, unlike so many others who had passed through his life. “Now, Theodora, tell me of your life,” he asked, praying he sounded nonchalant but he had to know. “Most important, why do you not wear your wedding ring?” “My life isn’t as interesting as yours.” Her face paled and her hands ducked beneath the table. “How did you know my name and hotel?” So, she avoids the subject, he thought glancing at her over the rim of his glass. A shame, her husband was most likely a good, loyal man. What did he care if she liked a little extra curricular activity during her holiday? He would be more then happy to accommodate the sensual Mrs. Howard.

Yet, somewhere deep inside him

disappointment took root. “Very simple, the flight attendant and the taxi company. reconfirmed the facts.”

36

Heicke then

“You know Herr Brewer?” “Ja, we attended university together, here in Munich.” “It’s hard to picture that gentle hotel manager as your friend.” He laughed at the startled look on her face. “What’s so funny?” “Heicke is not the hotel manager.

He owns four deluxe hotels very well

positioned in Munich. Also, his real name is Maximilian, which he hates so we use Heicke. It translates to cunning.” She sat upright in the chair, her eyes opened wide.

Evidently she never

imagined Heicke to be anything but what he appeared, a milquetoast man without passion. “As for mild,” he leaned into her, “so he seems.

In truth, he is a ruthless

businessman who will always win, no matter what it takes.” Her face took on a look he couldn’t interpret. “Beware of him, Theodora. He is a charmer who always gets his way,” he cautioned. As her eyes brightened, his mood darkened. A stab of something before unknown tore through him. At that moment a good-looking man approached their table with a chic woman on his arm. “And speaking of old friends, Theodora Howard may I introduce Rhineholdt Hoffman,” David began with a broad grin that faded into a grimace. “His companion, Baroness Gisela von Schreiner.” “Guten Abend, Frau. It is a pleasure to meet you. David, it’s good to see you finally enjoying yourself.” Rhineholdt smiled as he clasped his friend’s hand. He turned again to Teddi. “This man never takes time to relax. With him it’s always business. Maybe for my bankbook that is good.” Laughing, he clapped David on the back. The Baroness’ frigid gray eyes narrowed beneath her severely cut black hair as she bestowed the barest of nods on Teddi. Her milk-white face became animated as she 37

gazed at David, her practiced mannerisms obvious when she pouted her garish red lips. “Well darling, it has been too long since we have been together. You have been very naughty not to call. I can wait just so long before I must socialize with another vigorous man.” Her sickening sweet, double-entendre forced Teddi to swallow hard as her stomach rebelled. Slut in stilettos. She clamped her lips tight to contain her rude thoughts. “I would invite you to join us, but as you can see, we are just leaving.” Immediately David signaled the waiter who nudged between him and the Baroness to produce their bill. “Rhineholdt, I will speak with you tomorrow,” he said, shaking hands. Then he nodded curtly, “Baroness.” David scraped his chair back from the table and snatched up Teddi’s cape. He stooped to pick up a blue leather glove. In his haste to leave, he jammed it into his pocket. She winced at his grip on her elbow as they all but ran from the restaurant. Once on the street he slowed their pace.

Hand in hand they strolled, him

curbside and her to the shops. “Nice friends you have,” she began, not quite sure how to discover more about the Baroness and her insinuations. “She’s very chic. I’ve never met one before. Are they all so friendly and gracious?” A pang of some sort bounced then settled near her heart. She refused to believe it was anything but indigestion from the rich food. “Rhineholdt was a university friend. There were four of us, inseparable, much to our professors’ chagrin.” His arm wrapped around her waist and felt good. “The last cohort is Wolfe Deider. You will meet him as well. “Football was our great passion, not your American type, the kind that is played in Europe and South America. Our association was strained in the beginning. We had a fierce competition on the playing field with each of us trying to outdo the other. The coach, at his wits end, stomped off the field to let us resolve our problem. We soon

38

discovered our brute strength was very much equal. Although it took a colossal fight, we came to realize just how much we respected each other.

From there grew a

friendship that has kept our lives entwined ever since.” They came to a street corner. While waiting for the light to change, she managed a quick look at his profile. Delicious chills skittered through her along with a desire to slide her tongue along the small scar at the side of his mouth. “Rhineholdt is the comptroller for my company. He has other financial interests that have proven well. Wolfe is my attorney, business and personal. His clientele includes some of the highest profile people in Europe. Heicke is simply Heicke.” He caught her up short at the next corner as a dark sedan whizzed past. After a quick glance, he stepped off the curb. “Our bond is very strong. Over the years we have aided one another whenever necessary. Several times it was financial, from which we all profited. Now and then there was a personal problem that required much commiseration and advice. We are always available, no matter what.” His face had a sheepish expression. Evidently he loved these men and was embarrassed to show his feelings. It seemed they were closer than most brothers. “And the Baroness?” “She is nothing to me.” The cold words slipped past his tight lips. Her eyebrows shot up, mocking him. It certainly appeared that the Ice Queen had made quite an impression on him. His clipped answer made it sound as if there was some sort of history between them. “I think my Knight doth protest too much.” He seemed amused by her quaint phrase, for his good mood returned. “Shall we do a very German pastime?” “Sounds intriguing.” “This habit developed after the war. People had no money for food let alone luxuries. After the evening meal der Herren und die Frauen, sorry, men and women, would stroll the shopping street and dream of the goods they would like to purchase.” “That’s sad.”

39

“Nein, that is how we Germans became so astute,” he said, stretching to his full height. They looked through the shop windows at the new styles and sometimes laughed out loud at the outlandish clothes. She steered him away from a provocative lingerie shop when she thought of herself wearing the silky garments and him removing the delicate straps. David glanced back at the window. “Nein, meine Frau. I prefer to allow my imagination to wander.” She couldn’t tell if he was teasing her for his thick lashes hid his eyes and she couldn’t shake the need to have him touch her and lick her. Even more, she couldn’t ignore the fact her silly thoughts had made her wet. A pang of guilt stabbed her when she realized that she hadn’t given one thought to Matthew. It was too difficult to explain in her current hormonal state. It sure hadn’t taken much to shove her dead husband into the background. Smoldering green eyes and a sensual mouth seemed to be the right combination. He laughed as his arm tightened around her.

Softly, accented words were

whispered into her ear, “But you are the model, Theodora.” Once again she wanted another of his mind-snapping kisses. Wanted the length of him pressed against her.

She trembled at the thought of his touch, his hands

stripping away her clothes, caressing her, arousing her to a fever pitch until the only satisfaction she could conceive was him plunging deep inside her over and over again. With every step her clit rubbed against the soft fabric of her panties, teasing her. The thought of his tongue doing the same action was overpowering. Her legs grew weak and she grabbed his arm for support. When she looked up they had reached her hotel. He retrieved her room key from the front desk. She grew uneasy as they made their way to the elevator. Her tension mounted during the ride that seemed to take an eternity. She had to make a decision, another lonely night or sex with a stranger. He inserted the key, opened the door, glanced inside, and turned to her with his hand extended. “Guten Nacht, Theordora.” 40

“What?” Disappointment crashed into her. The time had passed too fast. She wanted more of his time, conversation, and most definitely, him. “You are very tired, jet lag, remember?” His mouth twisted into a mocking grin. He raised her hand and brushed his lips across her knuckles. Her throat muscles tightened, making it impossible to breathe. “Tomorrow I will collect you for sightseeing. Wiedersehen.” She watched him walk away and realized even though he was high-handed, he had an appeal she couldn’t ignore. The longer she was with him the more she felt the attraction. Common sense told her to get out while the gettin’ was good, but she couldn’t help herself. He was interesting, charming, and without a doubt, dynamic. He took control and right now she wanted that. Teddi roamed around her room while a niggling guilt took hold. She raised her head to the bathroom mirror and saw tension lines etched around her mouth. Her toothbrush clattered into the sink. What was she doing?

She knew he wasn’t married, even though he had

answered the question like he was the focus of a tax audit. She just couldn’t understand why it was so hard to say, “I’m a widow”. What was she scared of? They were just words, but words that conveyed so much. She had no idea why she hadn’t answered his questions or why the hell she kept such a natural condition hidden like a crime. She couldn’t allow her heart to go out to another person and be devastated when they left her. It was much safer to avoid any discussion or involvement and let people think whatever they wanted, no matter how low their opinion. He probably thought she was a married woman out to get laid. It didn’t matter because he was out of her life. Period. End of subject. **** The most difficult walk of his life had been from her door to the elevator. Every inch of his flesh throbbed. His cock had developed a mind of its own and insisted he

41

turn around.

The little bastard had decided to become a divining rod.

He even

considered it as he forced his feet toward the elevator. What the hell was wrong with him? He’d never been attracted like this. He felt so hot his body was ready to self-combust. He wanted her and couldn’t stand the thought of another man touching her, but she had to want him with the same fire whipping through him. He needed her naked, beneath him, her legs wrapped around him tight, holding him close. So close they became one, in body and spirit. Tomorrow, he decided as he jabbed the elevator call button, he would confirm her marital status because as much as he longed to be riding her, he wasn’t a man to condone cheating or back street affairs. He nodded to the desk clerk as he pushed open the hotel front door. The cold rain sprayed his face. With a flick of his wrist, he dismissed the waiting cabbie. The walk would do him good. He wanted her like he’d never wanted another woman, with a fierce desire that surprised him. So why the hell hadn’t he just backed her up against the door and fucked her? Because when he got past the incredible desire to be inside her, he realized he really cared for her. She was kind, funny, and intelligent. He particularly liked her sarcasm and was positive she could hold her own with anyone. Her ability to discuss any topic excited his brain, perhaps even more so than her scent and soft eyes, which sent him into a sex-driven frenzy. But a commitment, of any kind, would add a permanence he didn’t want. He liked his life just as it was. Yet somehow he had to make sure she wouldn’t get hurt. He needed time and space to figure it all out.

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Chapter Six

The frustrating night on the airplane was nothing compared to what she now endured. All night she had tossed and turned, unable to sleep caused by dreams of David. Him kissing her was so real she thought he was in her bed. That was the first time she woke. When she fell back to sleep he was undressing her, sliding his hands along her hips, spreading her legs, until she finally awoke with the sweaty sheets tangled in a knot. Teddi sipped her morning coffee, determined to face the situation head-on, along with all the emotional guilt and fear. She reached for the silver pot on the room service cart, nothing like a little more caffeine to calm her fractured nerves. She had loved her husband. They’d had a good life. Now he was dead, God, she hated that word. He was gone. She was here. So why the guilt? The silver handle burned her hand and she dropped the pot. To ease the sting, she blew on her palm. Her finger was naked. Where was her wedding ring? Panic gripped her until she remembered removing it on the flight over. She wiggled her fingers. Her hand looked strange – different – but not unique. How could she have gone so long without missing something so important? Maybe she didn’t want to notice. Was she so caught up in David and a little attention, she could dismiss Matthew without a thought?

Had she moved on and hadn’t noticed?

No, it was sexual

deprivation, plain and simple. 43

Her firm decision to never see David again didn’t produce the warm, soft and fuzzy sensation she’d hoped for as she stirred sugar into the hot black liquid. She needed to get over this insanity and take care of business. A sharp knock on the door broke her thoughts. She flung it open, believing it was the maid. “Do you not ask who is there? This is a large city filled with crime.” David scowled as he pushed into the room. She jumped back, clutching the lapels of her robe. “Are you not aware of evil men who prey on women?” His eyes swallowed her up like a thirsty man’s first glimpse of an oasis, then drifted over her body and rested on her breasts. Heat rose and jackknifed his cock. The little bastard wouldn’t go down because the morning light was behind her and outlining her naked body through the thin robe. “Especially a desirable woman whose body is barely covered.” “What are you doing here?” “I told you we would go sightseeing today.” His mood was less then gracious. All night he had tossed and turned because of her. He would not accept she could cheat on her husband. A thought popped into his mind. Maybe they were no longer intimate. Looking at her flushed face, he decided the man would have to be a fool not to want her. Maybe her husband could not rise to the task? He liked that idea. If it were true, where did it leave him? With a fling. Was not that just what he wanted? A sweet fuck with no complications on either side. His life did not have room for a long-term relationship. He had tried it once, but never again. His business took all his concentration. But a few weeks of hot sex, with this woman, should be enough to satisfy the lust churning his insides whenever he thought of her. Sex without commitment. That is exactly what he wanted. Didn’t he? “But you didn’t say at the crack of dawn,” she yelped. “And this unannounced appearing has to stop.” “Are you not happy to see me? You look very warm and inviting, Theodora.”

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His fingers itched to touch her while his mind calculated three steps was all it would take before he could cup her breast and suck on the rosy nipple peeking through her opened robe. “Now go, dress, before I am forced to remove that sexy bit of cloth.” Well, there went her resolve, along with her anger, right out the door just before her hip shoved it closed. Flustered, she fled into the closet and threw on the first clothes she found. Her eyes were glued on the closed door; half expecting him to tear it open and ravish her and even more surprised to realize that’s exactly what she wanted. David looked up when she entered the room. Her heart thundered as his eyes turned shimmering emerald. He stood and walked to her. When he took her by the elbow and drew her closer, she was sure he’d kiss her again. Her vagina tightened at the thought of his tongue stroking the inside of her mouth. “It is best we leave now,” he whispered as he turned them and marched to the door. Neither of them spoke as they walked through the lobby, nor did they acknowledge Herr Brewer when he called out, “Ach, David, I think you are a lucky man.” Once on the street they headed towards the Residenz, which had been the palace of Bavarian rulers for centuries. He explained the history of various buildings along the way as if he were conducting a grammar school field trip. Although polite, she kept her distance as tensions, sexual and authoritative, crackled with his every look. The tour brought them to a large open-air market, where shoppers passed through the crowded lanes buying fresh fruits and meats from the vendors under the green and yellow tents. Her stress evaporated as they laughed at the antics of the freespoken, robust women who ran the stalls. “What’s that tiny shop?” asked Teddi, shielding her eyes from the sun. “Which shop?” His head dipped closer to follow the line of her pointing finger. “The cute one on the right, with the green door and striped canopy.” Her voice rose as she grabbed his arm and shook it. “There, over there.”

45

“You mean the Honighausl? They specialize in products made from honey.” His grin spread. “Have you never seen such a shop?” “No, but I sure would like to.” Honey was her love, especially in cooking, and she couldn’t wait to see what they had to offer. She grabbed his hand and darted across the road. “Gross Gott,” wheezed the old white-haired clerk as they stepped over the threshold into the cubbyhole. “Gross Gott,” responded David. He turned and whispered, “It is the traditional Bavarian form of address when you first enter an establishment. Give it a try.” Although she was mentally proficient in German, it was a whole different matter to speak it aloud in front of the man she wanted to impress. Nervousness made her tongue stumble over the pronunciation and she found herself laughing along with the two men. She browsed the well-stocked shelves and soon her arms spilled over with pots of honey, candles, and wine bottles. David looked around for a basket to hold her purchases. When he stooped over her heart zinged. The delectable view of snug jeans fitted across his firm butt, along with the size of his balls outlined by the coarse fabric, created a maelstrom in her midsection. Her nipples peaked at a vision of her hands sliding over his naked ass as he pumped into her. A loud clatter brought her back to reality. When she turned to straighten the shelf the shop owner was glaring over his glasses. “Bitte mein Herr. Haben Sie Honigseife?’ asked David. “Ja. It is on the shelf behind you.” The old man gestured with his hand, never taking his eyes from his newspaper. “What’s Honigseife?” she asked, slaughtering the pronunciation. “Honey soap. You have not bathed until you use this.” David held up a caramel colored bar and waved it close to her nose. “Here, sniff.” “What a marvelous fragrance.” “Wait until its delicate perfume fills our bath.” 46

Her head jerked back at his sexually charged innuendo. Heat crawled up her neck as a flash of desire streaked through her. She couldn’t have moved if the building had burst into flame. Once they had paid for their purchases, they continued through the market. The butcher shops fascinated her. Rings of sausages were displayed in the windows to entice the shoppers. Skinned rabbits hung from large ceiling hooks and the meat coolers were filled with chops and roasts sold by the kilo. “I wish I had a camera. This is incredible.” She couldn’t have been happier if it were Christmas. They walked into a large picnic grove where the sun cast shadowy webs through the spindly branches hanging over the tables filled with people hoisting steins of beer. “Oh, David, there’s a beer garden. Can we sit down?” “Do you enjoy beer?” “Only German beer.” “What else German do you wish to enjoy, Theodora?” His arm snaked around her waist and tugged her close. She had to smile at the quaint way he spoke English.

His deep rich voice

softened his accent so the words sensually rolled off his tongue.

He could make

reading a flight schedule sound sexy. His silky tones wrapped around her like satin sheets heated from his naked… She was definitely going into sensory overload. What was wrong with her? She was acting like a bitch in heat. All this attention must have gone to her head. She’d better lay off the beer and throw away those garter belts. He opted for an empty table shaded by the centuries-old linden trees. She settled onto a steel chair as the wind separated the leafless branches. The sun caught her hair and shot sparks as she tossed her head to settle the curls. The movement exposed her slender throat, locking his glance in place while his lips twitched to taste her skin. His cock came to life. More then anything in the world he wanted to leap across the table and take her. There, in the beer garden, even with all these people. He needed to be inside her and feel the heat of her wet pussy wrapped around him.

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She leaned into him, breaking the spell. “Would you mind if I ordered for both of us?” He nodded. Speech was impossible. It took a moment for her to compose the words. He watched as her lips formed the words, wishing they were sliding over his cock, which was now the size of a bratwurst. “Bitte, Fraulein, zwei Bier.” His eyebrows shot up, surprised to hear her speak proper German. “I took two years of German in college. Due to lack of practice, I have trouble with anything more then ordering beer.” The waitress returned laden with five substantial steins in each hand. With a loud thunk she deposited two before David and waited for him to count out the coins. With a grunt she scooped up the other mugs and moved to the next group of drinkers. “Theodora, you have told me nothing of your life.” Why doesn’t she wear a wedding ring? The question had become paramount in his mind. And why did it matter so much to him? Now that he knew her better it was impossible to accept she would cheat on anyone, let alone a husband. She was the kind of woman who would honor her vows. “Of this I would like to know.” Her trembling hands steadied as she lifted the heavy stein.

He watched

transfixed as the amber liquid slid down her throat. She ignored his question and asked one of her own, “Why is it your English is so fluent?” “I have lived in America, off and on, for several years. I oversee the North American operations of my company. Therefore my schedule is divided between both continents. For convenience I have a condo in Chicago.” His tone was matter-of-fact, as if the news would not mean a thing to her. He was ashamed of himself for testing her like this. But he knew what he wanted, where this relationship was headed. Bed. His or hers was of no importance. Chicago or Munich, again, not important. He did prefer Munich as it would bring about his satisfaction sooner. Yet, if she was married.... He certainly had not sunk that low. Or 48

had he? “What?” “Why are you so surprised? Do you think you are the only world traveler?” Perhaps the news of Chicago hit too close to home. A bit of guilt? He felt sick. He thought, or was it hoped, she was different from the other women he had known. Standing, he reached for her hand. “Come, we must go. Soon it will be time for our dinner.”

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Chapter Seven

“What to wear?” Teddi mumbled, as she stripped off her clothing during her walk into the bedroom. On the bed she saw two perfect, long stemmed red roses. Her mood soared when she read the attached card. Still not as beautiful as you. Meet me in the lobby at seven. Tonight is formal. David Nothing like a little pressure, she thought as she opened the closet door and jerked garment after garment from the brass rod. Each outfit was carefully considered, then discarded. She finally turned a padded hangar in her hand and smiled at the royal blue strapless cocktail dress. Perfect. Now only her briefs and a pair of pantyhose were needed to complete her ensemble. With a shudder she remembered there were no panties or pantyhose, only thongs, garter belts, and stockings. She lifted the black garter belt from the drawer and eyed the clips as though they were medieval torture devices. Not quite certain what went on first, the thong or the belt, she held them at arm’s length and scrutinized each piece. She dropped the thong onto the bed and grimaced as she hooked the lacy belt around her waist. Tingles skittered across her abdomen when her fingertips accidentally brushed against her 50

pubic hair. After a quick turn she pulled open another drawer, removed a pair of hose and sat on the edge of the chair. The sheer material drifted through her fingers until they reached the black band of the stocking. She cupped her hand and slid it in. With her leg stretched forward and toes pointed ballerina style, the silky material glided up her calf like a lover’s caress. She clipped the stocking into place then repeated the process with the second nylon, admiring the sensual silk as it kissed her thigh. She stood and caught her half-naked reflection in the cheval mirror. Her skin glowed with delicious anticipation, her muscles tensed with longing. Shyness forced her to cross her arms over her breasts. Slowly she dropped them to her sides, her warm palms brushing against her hot skin. A shiver spiraled through her as she imagined David standing behind her. How would it feel for his large hands to cup her? Brush his thumbs over her nipples? Tightness pulled low in her womb as she massaged her taut nipples with her index fingers.

She wanted it to be David’s hands on her, with his strong fingers

stroking her then skimming lower to her triangle of soft hair. Her hand glided lower, to her abdomen, just over the lacy edge of the belt. Her body throbbed, demanding immediate gratification. She slid her fingers down and teased the folds apart. Her labium, swollen and hot, was dripping juices down her leg. She rotated her hips to an ancient rhythm echoing in her head, all the while building to an explosion. She rubbed harder, faster, until the intense pressure was relieved and her body plunged in its orgasm. The pleasure subsided as she walked to the bathroom on wobbly legs to wash her hands. She fought to get her hormones under control as she yanked on the thong, then her dress. Once again she inspected her reflection as she stepped into velvet heels. A sophisticated feminine image looked back. Yet something wasn’t right. She decided a necklace would take away from the sweep of her throat to collarbone. Her eye caught the sparkle of her sapphire and diamond earrings from an open drawer. After hooking

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them in, she dabbed a touch of Samsara behind her ears and glided a trace into her cleavage. Tossing the sapphire cape over her arm, she walked to the elevator. **** David stood across the dimly lit lobby in a tuxedo that hugged his body and accentuated his broad shoulders. She noticed the black silk bow tie set off his white pleated shirt just before her eyes drifted down to the gold cufflinks peeking out from the long sleeves of his jacket. And then she saw his hands. Her fantasy rushed back and twisted her stomach into knots. “Mein Gott im Himmel,” came out in a whoosh of air. Passion flamed as she glided to him. His hand touched her elbow to guide her out the door, sending streaks of heat down her spine. “Where are we going in such a hurry?” She knew she’d break an ankle in her high heels if he didn’t slow down. “To the opera. Tonight one of our finest Bavarian sopranos is performing Aida.” His spicy cologne wrapped around her, as he adjusted her cape. “Oh no, David, this is a huge mistake.” She stopped dead in her tracks. “Two years ago, in Berlin, I attended The Magic Flute and promptly fell asleep. It was terribly embarrassing when the intermission lights came up.” “Never fear, Liebschen, this evening will so inspire you there will be no chance of a nap.” For some strange reason her little confession seemed to please him. He tucked her arm in his as they crossed the boulevard. She stifled a grin because he sounded like a history teacher as he explained, “The Bavarian State Opera Company performs at the National Theater. Twice, this magnificent building has been destroyed and rebuilt with dedication to the original architecture. Today, with state-ofthe-art facilities, it ranks as one of the most renowned opera houses of the world.” She protested again, “Maybe a little jazz. Better yet rock n’ roll. But opera.” Her spirits plummeted. 52

“You will enjoy a most magical evening,” he insisted. When they reached the opera house, she couldn’t help but be impressed by the tall marble columns that supported the copper roof, or the brass pedestals with lamps that illuminated the towering metal doors. She glanced around the spacious lobby, carpeted in a regal red and gold pattern, as an usher accepted their tickets.

The twinkle from the enormous cut crystal

chandeliers caught her eye as they walked up the rosewood staircase. Once they settled into their box seats the lights dimmed and the orchestra played the overture, the magic began. Teddi had never felt so affected by a performance and was completely drained. She couldn’t possibly eat dinner. With uncharacteristic shyness she invited David to her suite for a drink. On the elevator ride up her tension grew. She knew what he would expect once they were in her room. Was this what she really wanted? After he opened the door and flipped the light switch, she walked to the closet to hang up her cape. He moved behind her, slipped the wrap from her shoulders, and tossed it over a small chair. His firm hands stroked her soft shoulders while he studied her face in the mirror. She was spellbound by his image, a potent, robust man whose touch was so very gentle. “What do you see?” His long thick black lashes brushed against her cheek. Her heart pounded at their caress. Hypnotized, she stared into the mirror and watched him pull one end of his bow tie loose, then remove a stud at the base of his throat. The unknotted silk hanging just below his rugged jaw was the sexiest thing she’d ever seen. Heat spiraled through her and the heaviness built between her thighs. “I see a charming man and a woman acting like a fool.” Her eyelids fluttered shut to hide her embarrassment of wanting him so much. “Nein, Theodora, I see a beautiful, sensitive woman with a lovely slender neck.” His index finger stroked her cheek and then glided down to caress her throat as a volley

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of shivers followed in its path. She stiffened just before want and need took control. She raised her head to meet his burning stare.

Tonight she would take control of her life and enjoy this man

without any guilt. “Shoulders that need to be kissed.” His lips did just that while his fingers released the zipper at the back of her dress. Whispered German words caressed her ear as the garment floated to the floor. His eyes skimmed her reflection and when they landed on her garter belt a feral sound ripped from his chest as if he’d been scorched by molten lava. His hand dipped lower and stroked the soft flesh above her stocking then hooked around the clip and gave it a tug. A devilish grin slowly separated his full lips. She ached for his touch, his mouth, his tongue, anywhere, everywhere. Heat rushed low to the center of her body making her wet as she watched this epitome of masculinity tease her tender flesh. “Full breasts begging to be stroked.” His warm fingers grazed along their sides and left a trail of heat wherever they fondled. A sheen of perspiration covered her as his sensual words and male scent enflamed her slick vagina to a need beyond any she had ever known. A moan escaped her throat as his butterfly kisses flitted from her neck to the base of her spine. She raised a hand to touch the thick hair that feathered against her ear. “Pale nipples throbbing to be suckled.” The pads of his thumbs flicked over her pink skin and it pebbled. His voice was husky as he said, “I need to lick you, taste you, Theodora.” Her hips rocked against him, encouraging him to fill her. But he ignored her movements. Instead, his determined fingers spanned her waist then lowered to splay over the sensitive area of her abdomen. His skilled touch sensuously transported her into a zone where there was no coherent thought. She leaned back into him for support, her legs weak.

His rock-hard penis

pressed into the small of her back, arousing her even more, as if that were possible. A tidal wave of anticipation flooded over her. Arching her back, she lifted her other arm

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to interlock both hands into his thick hair. She thrust her breasts forward for more of his touch. His hand slowly traveled up her body before he took both swollen breasts into one large palm. A thumb and middle finger fondled her sensitive nipples, causing her to moan and her pussy to throb. “Your need grows, Liebschen. Your body speaks to me as you move under my hands. Say it. You want me—deep—inside you.” He knew she was wet, the glazed look in her eyes told him. And, he also knew she wasn’t aware of the thrusts her hips made, seeking his cock. More then anything he wanted her muscles convulsing around him, holding him firm, while he slowly slid in and out, teasing them into a frenzy. His fingers slipped beneath the band of her lacy thong then played aimlessly before their slow descent to her clit. He glanced up and saw that mounting passion had brought a warm glow to her flawless skin, heady perfume to his senses. Fulfillment had to be achieved or he would explode. His one thought was the raw pleasure of sliding her thong to the side, bending her over and taking her. At once. Now. He fumbled with his zipper as she swiped her pink tongue out to moisten her lips. Racked with raw need, the motion held him, fascinated. His mouth longed to taste the fever and secret within. He turned her slowly and allowed his fingertips to skim across the engorged points of her nipples. Breathing hard, anticipating the joy of her body, he kissed her swollen lips.

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Chapter Eight

Teddi jumped when the telephone blasted into the sexually charged room. Her face pleaded with him to understand. She crossed the room, bent over and lifted the receiver, offering him a seductive view. “Ach du Lieber,” he whispered as he reached for her. “Oh, baby, what a surprise.” The words poured from her as she clutched the receiver. “Yes, I miss you, too.” Sharp pain knifed through David when he heard her tender words. The warmth in her voice left no doubt she was speaking to her husband. Wretched, he turned for the door unable to believe he had allowed himself to fall into such a trap. A trap set by a cunning she-devil. A woman, like all the others who would use him for her own gain. “No, no, everything is fine. No, I have to hang up right now. I’ll call you later.” She slammed the phone down and raced to the suite door. “Don’t go. Please.” He couldn’t bear to look at her. The face of yet another cheater who would lie to get her way nauseated him. “Do you not wish to speak to your darling husband in private?” he roared. “What? No, you’ve got it all wrong. Please, come back. Let me explain.” “What is there to explain? Your conversation told me all I choose to hear.” “You don’t understand. That was my sister.” His head pounded. A primal urge to choke her almost overpowered him. It took all his inner strength to regain control. Inexorably he stood with hands clenched 56

into white-knuckled fists. Sister. The word formed in his mind. Impossible. Yet, her face was so compelling and that body, so tantalizing. He wanted to believe her, needed to believe her. He fought to contain himself as he walked to the sofa. “So, this is why you do not wear a wedding ring. To have a little fun on your holiday,” he sneered. “Picking up strange men, is it a hobby or am I just the almost lucky one?” His words wiped the guileless look from her face in less then a second. Her eyes turned dark as anger heightened the color in her cheeks. “Now look, you, I didn’t pick you up. And I do not make a habit of inviting strange men into my hotel rooms. Nor do I wish to be insulted by you.” “You continually stared at me in the airport lounge and on the flight over. Such encouragement could only lead us to tonight.”

His words were laced with

condemnation. “In your dreams, sugar. You were the one gaping as if I was the last lay in town.” Her caustic words spewed out like a barrage of machine gun fire. “So don’t turn this around like I’m the one on the make.” The sight of a half-naked woman with her hands on panty-clad hips lambasting him was simply too ridiculous. On second glance, bare breasts seductively bobbing were too sensual not to watch and enjoy. Good sense made him walk to her and slip his jacket over her shoulders. His rolling laugh broke the tension in the room. She took a breath and squared her shoulders as if she were determined to cleanse her soul. “I need to explain. I should have been honest with you from the beginning. There’s nothing to hide. I’m a widow. My husband died three years ago from liver cancer.” He sank onto the sofa, flexing his fingers, not quite sure where this declaration was headed but already knowing he didn’t like the sound of it. “When the diagnosis was finally made the doctor thought Matthew would live six months. It turned out to be seven weeks. We were together twenty-four hours a day. I never left the hospital during his last days. I fed, bathed, and held him. Not so 57

much for his comfort, more for mine because I didn’t know what I’d do without him.” She didn’t look at him, but stared off as if reliving every tortuous moment. “I honestly didn’t think I could live without him. I loved him more then anything. And I know he felt the same way about me.” David raised his head, his jaw so rigid the muscles hurt. His hands were still and his shoulders had slumped forward in defeat. “During that time I completely neglected my little sister, Eleanor, who needed me too. My parents died when she was just a child, we then raised her like our own. But, in my stupidity and fear, I shut her out, which I’ll regret until the day I die.” Tears trickled down her cheeks. “Maybe I was trying to shield her from the fact that the man she considered “daddy” was about to die. I never forced her to visit the hospital. She came of her own free will, always considerate and cheery, even though she was scared as hell.” Stunned, he made no attempt to comfort her. This certainly was not what he had expected to hear. Her pain was so evident, her face racked with such grief, knowing he could not ease her was pure hell for him. “Matthew worshipped Eleanor. He made me promise to always take care of her, to be there. No matter what, she was to come first. He truly adored her. Like she was his daughter. He lingered in that bed, unable to walk, eat, or speak, and waited for just one last time to be with his beautiful little girl.” Tears washed her face and the words would not stop. She choked on her sobs but pushed forward, her arms wrapped around her body. “In the last hours of his life he somehow expressed his love and hope for her future. He was prepared to die and had made his peace with God. But there had to be those last few moments with the girl he cherished. Or maybe he thought he had to make up for their lost future.” The words had become indistinguishable through her sobs. Her face twisted with sorrow and her body shook. “We were never great parents, too wrapped up in work and ourselves. We were way too lenient and overindulgent. I guess we hoped that would smooth out all our faults.”

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His eyes closed to the pain as he burrowed his face in his hands. Yet his ears could not shut out the misery in her words. “Now, I go from day to day making lousy stabs at managing my business, being there for my sister whenever she allows it, and reconciling life without a husband.” She swallowed hard as she wiped her nose across his jacket sleeve. “That was Lonnie on the phone. We talk whenever possible. She’s very mature and stronger than me, and because of that, I believe she’s forgiven my weaknesses.” David remained silent. He did not want to think of her husband, or any other man, touching her, loving her because he had almost convinced himself Matthew was celibate. He wanted, and did he ever want, to be the first to explore her body. He wanted to be the man who gave her the gift of being a woman. “I’d decided to tell you. I just didn’t think it would be under such unlikely circumstances.” She pulled herself up straight and looked him in the eye. “Now if you want to leave I won’t try to stop you.” “Why did you not speak of your marriage until now?” He cleared his throat then asked softly, “I gave you opportunities. Why such a secret?” “It’s hard for me to discuss this with strangers.” Her eyes flitted over his head. “Theodora, we are hardly strangers. Look at you. Would you wear that—a tuxedo jacket and garter belt—with just anyone—a stranger?” “Good Lord, no. We’ve grown close, very fast. I don’t know, it’s just hard. Maybe discussing his death makes it too real. I know he’s dead and will never come back, but a part of me still hopes I’ll wake up and find this was all a bad dream.” Joy she was single elated him. Sadness that she had not been able to let go pained him. Fear that she might never accept her husband’s death consumed him.

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Chapter Nine

Dressed in a dark three-piece suit, David made his way to Claus’s plush office. Out of courtesy he tapped on the door before he entered. A sheepish look slithered across his cousin’s soft features as he disconnected his telephone call without a goodbye. “A pleasant surprise, David.” His face muscles labored to shape an amiable expression. “What may I do for you? On such a beautiful Sunday afternoon, I expected you to have better things to do than pay me a social call.” David eased into a visitor’s chair then crossed his legs, his hands neatly folded on his lap. His eyes drilled into Claus. This was not an affable visit. From the look of the office, he had delayed this get-together far too long. He’d been too wrapped up in playing tour guide. “And speaking of social, how is the delectable Teddi these days? All that she promises?” Claus wagged his eyebrows. David turned to ice. The sneer on Claus’s weak mouth sickened him, but not nearly as much as the implication Theodora was a cheap commodity for men to discuss. “I assume Frau Howard is well.” Unable to stop himself, he snapped, “Why do you ask?” “She does not answer her phone, always out the desk tells me. Yesterday I called until midnight without success.” Claus shrugged, as if it meant nothing to him. “Why would you call with such persistence, and more importantly, why so 60

late?” His blood pressure soared. “Just wanted to firm up dinner plans.” Claus studied David over the rim of his raised coffee cup. When had he invited her to dinner? Why had she not told him? As if any of it was his concern. What difference did it make if she had a simple meal with an idiot? She was free to do as she pleased. Yet he could not understand why he had all this anger. “Put that aside. We have important business to discuss. Your job is to manage this tour company, at a profit, for which you receive an excellent salary.” He leaned forward to emphasis his words. “Why are we losing money?” Claus lowered his cup, his expression somewhere between apathetic and petulant. “Are the books up to date for the audit?” He knew they were not and frustration with his cousin’s lax work record made him spit out the words. Claus sat there with an air of self-importance, feet stretched on the desktop and hands linked behind his expertly styled blond head, as if he did not have a care in the world. At least the bastard wore Stiefel Boots. “You worry too much, David. Yes, everything is in pristine condition.” His tone mocked the very ethics of their corporation. With a sneer, he added, “At least nothing any government auditor could unearth.” That’s it. David lunged out of his chair like a cheetah pouncing on his prey.

Fury

overcame his rationale and a ripe expletive ripped from his belly. Claus had gone too far, first his lewd innuendo about Theodora and now his blatant sarcasm on the largest financial review in Stiefel’s history. “I will not tolerate any problems.

Do I make myself perfectly clear?”

His

shaking hands smashed onto Claus’s desktop as he hovered over it. “Monday, 9:00 A.M. sharp, Wolfe Deider will deliver the examiner to this building for a conference. I

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hope your attitude will have improved.” The office door slammed behind him.

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Chapter Ten

“Hello.” Francine’s quiet voice answered after six rings. “Hi there, friend. Your message was on the phone when I got back to the hotel and I’m responding ASAP as ordered.” Teddi was nervous, a premonition of doom hung in the air as her fingers picked at the lace doily under the telephone. “How’s it going, or shouldn’t I ask? And, why are you home on a workday?” “I needed a little down time. We’ve had a not so small problem.” She stared blindly out the window at the throngs of shoppers who scurried down the rainy street and flipped the phone cord like a noose. Symbolic? “Money’s been missing, cash, from client purchases. I tracked it down to Justine. I confronted her, naturally she…” “How much money?”

Teddi’s level-headed-boss-in-take-charge-mode voice

interrupted. She froze as the thought of bankruptcy swallowed her. “About $500.00. When the other girls saw me counting and recounting the deposit they reported their suspicions to me. Several times they’d seen Justine in the cash box, which she denied.” Her voice came across the wire in a nervous shrill. “I figured immediate action was needed. So I checked the box each time after she’d gone into it. It came up short a twenty here, a fifty there. The last time a hundred dollar bill was gone. I knew the till was short as I’d written down the serial numbers on the large bills to trap her.” Teddi sank onto the sofa. Tension had produced a blinding headache. She 63

reached for the carafe of water and filled a glass from the tray. “What did you do?” “My only option was to fire her. I accompanied her to her desk, took back the office key, allowed her to remove her purse—nothing more—and escorted her out the front door. Told her if a claim was filed at the unemployment office I’d report her to the police for stealing.” Teddi rummaged through her purse desperate for a large dose of aspirin. The image of an envelope from the Illinois Department of Employment Services leapt before her eyes. In her heart she knew Justine would register a complaint. Her hand found the bottle and she swallowed two tablets. “Francine, I’m coming home. You’ve got enough to worry about without this added burden. I know you have everything under control, but my place is at the office.” Why couldn’t something go right? “Did you document the incident?” “Oh yes.” She heard the relief in Francine’s voice at her calm reaction. “It’s funny. Instinct, I mean. She appeared to be ashamed, but I didn’t trust her. So I called the police and gave a full report. I told them we chose not to press charges but we wanted it on record in case the situation proved worse.” “You’re a genius, Francie. If you weren’t such a good friend I’d leave you the agency in my will,” she said half joking, although it wasn’t a bad idea. She knew her friend loved the business and suspected it was her whole life. She decided to see her lawyer when she returned and make Francie a full partner. “I’m so sorry this happened to you. You did great. Be honest, is everything else okay?” “We’re all fine. A little depressed and disappointed after such an unpleasant day. Oh yeah, I made another executive decision. We fortified ourselves with junk food.” Teddi grinned, as the pounding in her head began to subside, knowing food always perked up her girls. “Have you hooked up with that Fritz creep yet?” “No. Since it’s the weekend his office is closed. I’m just hanging out until he’s back at work. But I’ll call you in a few days” “Why don’t you let me call you? Remember, you’re supposed to be drumming up a social life. Shock yourself. Go get laid. It’ll do wonders for your disposition. Bye.”

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The line went dead. Francine’s words had crashed right into her deepest desire. She wanted David, craved his hands and mouth over her whole body. Not once in three years had she experienced those thoughts or feelings. The twinge of guilt she felt barely nudged her. She set the empty glass back on the tray and forced herself to think of work. How could she have been such a poor judge of character when she’d hired Justine? Her credentials and references had been excellent.

Her previous employer had never

alluded to any difficulties. Her head flopped back onto the sofa, eyes closed. Would this business never go right? And she still had to deal with that pompous ass tour operator. God, she hated confrontations. Maybe she ought to close the business and do something else with her life. “Like pull a blanket over my head and….” Her self-pity quickly turned to admonishment. “Stop it. You’re not a baby. Get a grip, stop whining, and handle your responsibilities. It’s time to grow up and take charge.”

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Chapter Eleven

“Enjoying the sun in our Englischer Garten is a very pleasant pastime for an afternoon,” David said, as he threw bits of bread to the hungry finches.

“It was

designed in the style of the English Gentry homes, hence the name. We will make our way to the Chinese Pagoda. Do you see the wooden tower trimmed with gold? There, a little to your right.” He turned Teddi, using any excuse to touch her. “You’re not planning to walk this whole thing. It must be five hundred acres.” He coughed to stop the laugh threatening to explode at the expression on her face. “Americans need to realize the joys of nature.” He looked around and thought a little too much nature was available as he steered her away from the nude sunbathers. It surprised him that his Theodora should not look at any other man naked. He needed to talk with her, delve deeper into her life. When they came to a beer garden he pulled out a chair for her then ordered pots of tea and sweetened pancakes from the waitress. “You have been to Germany before. Was it for vacation?” Determined to learn her history, he took control of the conversation. He unbuttoned his jacket and allowed the material to drop to his side. “No, they were all short business trips.” “Such as?” He forced himself to sound casual while his heart pounded like a piston. 66

“We came over to arrange hotels, sightseeing, and meals for tour groups that our agency promoted. Most of our business was further north. I was in Munich twice before, but again strictly for business. So I really haven’t seen much of your country.” She stirred sugar into her tea then broke off a section of the cake and slid the piece into her mouth.

His eyes followed her every movement.

Slowly he licked his lips,

remembering the taste of her. “Tell me about your travel agency. I am curious why you think it is failing.” He leaned back into his chair and studied her face, his arms folded across his chest. “We bought the company eight years ago. It gave the impression of being a healthy corporation but didn’t turn out as represented.

The previous owner’s

accountant had padded the earnings and profits. We didn’t discover the truth until about a year into the operation. After many long hours of hard work and committed dedication, we turned the business around.” “Was Matthew the administrator of the company?” Even to his own ears his voice sounded harsh. “No. He was a plant manager for a helicopter gear manufacturer. The agency was bought for me. I’d worked there for a few years prior to the purchase.” “He loved you very much to make such an investment.” “Yes, he did. I’m very fortunate to have had him in my life.” Her eyes shifted as she searched for anything to look at, other than him.

She settled on two wrens

fluttering above the far side of their table. The little birds strutted toward the crumbs next to her plate. He stretched out his hand to shoo them away. He wanted no distractions for her to hide behind. “Why was it necessary for you to work? Matthew was upper management. Was not his salary sufficient?” His gut tightened. What was wrong with her husband? A woman should not have to work when she has a child to rear. If she were his wife he would have provided everything. She would have wanted for nothing. “David, we didn’t need the money. I love to work, a bad habit I picked up in my childhood.” She laughed at his questions. “It’s exciting, highly stimulating. Your mind

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has to be razor sharp because snap decisions are made constantly.

I love the

challenges.” “Until the challenges become too daring.” “Well, there’s some truth to that.” “You have the intelligence and strong presence to be successful. I still do not grasp why you have faltered.” He searched her eyes. “After Matthew died my heart just wasn’t into anything. I prayed I would die, too,” she whispered. Relief swept over her face as if she had finally shared a closely guarded secret. “You love him?” Jealousy, for he now recognized the emotion, washed over him. His hand wrapped around the fork as if it were a weapon to use against his soaring insecurities. She still loves him. He knew it by her eyes. “Yes, I loved him more than I thought was possible. He was a part of me, the part that made it all worthwhile to wake up every day.” She turned her head as if to avoid his eyes. “You miss him.” He stabbed his cake with such force a section flipped to the ground. Does she pretend I am him? “Yes, we were very happy. I guess I’ll always miss him. But I also recognize that part of my life has changed. I need to move forward.” Her answer was firm, as if to convince herself. “We discussed most aspects of the business. He offered advice on managing the employees and ways to increase the profits. He never forced his will on me.” A sheepish grin spread across her face. “Actually, it was the other way around. I can be a little unreasonable at times.” He smiled at the truth in her statement. She was an extraordinary woman, not pretentious and, thank God, not the type to play games. “It is the discussions you miss. You do not trust your instincts. You now allow yourself to second guess your own decisions.” “I don’t know,” she said. “The other day Francine, my manager, caught one of the girls stealing money and fired her right then. Francie has an excellent sense of the 68

business, ideas galore and she never seems to tire. Her enthusiasm and good humor are very infectious. The employees and clients adore her. “I don’t think I have the courage to react like that anymore. Getting soft, I guess. It just seems like it’s all too much, new problems everyday and debts rising. I’ve even considered bankruptcy.” Her cheeks burned as she confided in him. “I feel like I’m falling down a black hole and paying dearly for the ride.” “Why have you become so lethargic? You are a woman of ability and good sense. You have relied on yourself in the past, of this I have no doubt. Matthew offered advice but I suspect you used him more as a sounding board. He undoubtedly knew it and was happy to be there for you.”

He shook his head, amazed at the mental

quandary she had brought onto herself. In his opinion it was simple, get on with business. The personal life and its problems were kept in the background. “This is very embarrassing, to discuss my penny-ante operation with a man who runs an international company.” She bent her head and plucked the crumbs from her lapel. “You have become apathetic. Inspiration and discussion will correct that. Give me one of your business cards,” he ordered, holding out his hand. He scrutinized the linen card, with its raised lettering, and knew she had labored over her decisions to give the correct image for her company. He placed the card in his wallet. “I am here to help you. I insist.” “No thanks. Believe it or not, I am a businesswoman. I got myself into this mess and I’ll work my way out, alone. That’s how things are now. I’ll refocus, it’ll just take some time.” Her smile removed some of the sharpness in her tone. “Thank you for listening. I do appreciate it and feel better, more on track.” How strange for her to discuss her husband so freely. For once she wasn’t sad. It felt good to have someone to talk with again, even for a few days. “You were a young bride. Was it necessary for you to get married?” She was surprised at his impertinent question. “No, not at all. I was young, probably too young. We were in love and didn’t want to wait. Since he was twelve

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years older than me and established, it made perfect sense.” What did he think of her? If the other night was any indication, then it wasn’t much. “My parents gave their consent and signed the legal papers. Presto, I was an old married woman at seventeen. The next year I was pregnant.” She sipped her tea and wondered why he behaved so strangely. Her story wasn’t uncommon. She raised her head and looked him straight in the eye. “The baby just sort of happened. It wasn’t planned. Then my parents were killed in a car accident. The shock brought on a miscarriage. That’s when Lonnie came to live with us. She was eight at the time. Later we adopted her.” “Was he happy about a child?” His impassive face gave no clue as to the depth of his interest. “Very much so.

I think Matthew would have liked children.

It just never

happened.” “Was he your first?” “Pardon me.” “Was he your first man?” he insisted. “That’s very private, don’t you think? I’ll make an exception for you because you obviously don’t realize how rude and intrusive your question sounds in English.” His audacity really pissed her off but it was imperative he understood her morals. “Actually, I’m rather proud of the fact my husband was my first and only lover.” Abruptly he stood. The cups rattled in their saucers and tea sloshed onto the wooden table. “Guten Tag, Frau Howard, David.”

Claus walked up and interrupted their

conversation. He pulled over a chair and plopped into it. “May I join you?” “We were preparing to leave,” David snapped, oblivious to the fresh drinks the waitress was serving. “Ach David, you have the pleasure of this beautiful lady’s company. Are you so cruel as not to share with your cousin?” His mouth pouted, but his eyes had a hard glint to them. 70

David grumbled under his breath, “Theodora Howard, do you remember my cousin, Claus Boettner?” Her heart stopped. Couldn’t be. Must be a weird coincidence but her gut told her it was true. “Yes. Please call me Teddi.” She refused to extend her hand. His face twisted into an unpleasant scrunch and his eyes popped. “You are the T. Howard from All Around Travel? I thought it was a man who sent me those faxes and a damned arrogant one at that.” She fumed at the dig, but knew she had to keep control and not chew his ass out before she convinced him to honor their agreement. She looked up at David. Did he know about his cousin’s rotten business practice? Was he a part of it? By the shock on his face, she thought no. He seemed to be as confused as she. Confused? Not any longer. The rotten bastard who had screwed her turned out to be David’s cousin. “So, my lovely Teddi, what do you think of our fine city?” Claus smiled, all his attention on her. Hello, you prick. You cheated me out of big bucks and now you act like we’re buddies? “We’ve been exploring and enjoying all Munich has to offer.” She scraped her chair closer to David. “Has my fine cousin shown you the true Munich or just the tourist traps?” He signaled the waitress for a beer. The conversation was strained as Claus fawned over her. She shifted on her chair. David made no contribution, just sat there and glared. “And so my dear, please allow me to escort you for an entire evening of amusement.” His hand reached for hers. “Apparently we have business to discuss.” David’s face muscles clenched tighter. “No. I have an appointment with clients and don’t know how long our business will take.” “Oh really?” He sounded like a man who thought a woman couldn’t function beyond a good screw.

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Pig. “I own a travel agency. I’m here to sign contracts for a group.” Anxious to stop an embarrassing situation, she lied, “David has already invited me to dinner.” “What a shame. But that is impossible, David. Your secretary reminded me you have a meeting tonight. Something about new boot shops. Had you forgotten? And you such a dedicated businessman.” He turned to face her with a smug look she wanted to slap off his face. “So Teddi, I believe that leaves you free. I insist you allow me to show you a full night of pleasure.” Claus had deftly turned the situation around with such aplomb she was trapped. She had to meet him for dinner if only to plead her case. David threw a few coins on the table and grabbed her arm. “We go.”

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Chapter Twelve

Why Teddi had agreed to meet Claus that night was beyond her comprehension. She knew that phony had manipulated the conversation and trapped her. But she was in a terrible mess. Not only had she run up her credit cards to cover the agency’s losses, she’d also taken a second mortgage on her new house. At this point she’d do just about anything to get him to honor their agreement, otherwise she’d have told him to take a flying leap. It was obvious there was a problem between the cousins. They didn’t even make a pretense of being civil to one another. Was there a jealousy or some competition from their youth they hadn’t gotten over? Or maybe it had to do with the company and who had the ultimate authority. She had a suspicion a woman was no small part of their problem. He had called from the lobby and she’d agreed to meet him in the bar. She took her time getting dressed. Her search for a dowdy outfit, or at least a plain one, was useless. Eleanor had done an excellent job of buying only the best. She finally chose a cinnamon skirt and blouse then hooked in a pair of simple gold earrings, and since there was nothing more to do, grabbed her tan blazer and left the room, vowing it would be a fun night, even if it killed her. She spotted him across the lobby dressed in a well-tailored navy suit and an outrageous purple tie he couldn’t stop straightening. He was a nice looking man, tall with a decent build. Maybe he just tried too hard. 73

He stood to greet her with a kiss on each cheek, which she didn’t return. She noticed the two aperitifs on the cocktail table as he pulled out a padded chair. “You look lovely tonight, my dear. Cinnamon is the perfect color for you.” His eyes were locked onto her breasts. “Thank you and may I return the compliment.” Shut your mouth. “Too kind.

However, my little Teddi Bear, no one could compare to your

ethereal beauty.” Teddi Bear, as if she hadn’t heard that most of her life and it had always made her want to vomit, almost as much as his gushing. This was a big mistake. “Tonight we dine at the famous Tantris. The décor is a bit garish; however the excellent menu makes up for that. The renowned Chef Haas offers nouvelle cuisine. Does wood pigeon with scented rice tempt you?” As he handed her a delicate stemmed glass of blue liqueur his fingers brushed hers. “Then we shall dance the night away in the trendiest section of Munich. One club has seventeen rooms with every type of music and atmosphere you could want.” She appreciated he was trying to create a pleasant evening, and without David around, Claus had relaxed and become an amusing companion. She decided to give him a chance to do right by their contract. After all, it was only dinner. **** The restaurant did look as if it were the handiwork of the Mad Hatter. The dazzling yellow table cloths and neon orange furniture, surrounded by dung-colored concrete walls, weren’t going to win any awards soon, she decided. Once seated, he ordered for them both and didn’t bother to ask her preferences. She was miffed but assumed the menu was written in German so it wasn’t really a problem. “Claus, I’d like to discuss our contract. Why did you back out of it?” 74

“Teddi Bear, let’s enjoy our dinner and then over drinks we can discuss all the business your heart desires.” He tugged at his French cuffs. Apparently his engraved cufflinks were supposed to peek out from the jacket sleeve. She soon discovered two strangers sharing a superb meal in a fine restaurant could reach a common ground. When he claimed to be an avid cook she was skeptical, but when he confided that he grew herbs as a hobby she giggled. It was impossible to picture him tending the frail plants. The other diners smiled at them as they shared horror stories of disastrous dinner parties and bizarre guests. “My true dilemma was the night the Count and Countess of Edgeware, along with several respected members of our government, came to dine.” He hung his head as if embarrassed, but she didn’t believe it for one minute when a smile tweaked his mouth. “Everything had gone wrong at the office and I was in a terrible rush. I thought all the preparations were under control when my guests arrived. Drinks and hors d’oeuvres were consumed by the wagonload. I had returned to the kitchen to baste the pork roast, when, to my utter shock, I discovered the oven had not been lit.” “What did you do?” She bit her cheeks to curb her laughter, until he held a forkful of meat to her lips. She waved him off because she wasn’t into eating from a stranger’s utensils. “The only thing I could.” He seemed unaffected by her dismissal. “I asked if my guests preferred Italian or Chinese. I reported my oversight and they all agreed to be my guests at an elite restaurant. I was never as embarrassed as when my friends continually toasted my health and wealth, the latter of which they fully availed themselves of by ordering only the finest wines on the menu,” he laughed as he toyed with his food. A young waiter bent over the table to refill her glass with the Merlot Claus had ordered. His arm was jostled when the chair behind him collided with his rear. A ruby-red stream splashed onto the tablecloth and her plate. The rattled boy profusely apologized as he mopped up the mess. Claus jumped to his feet, his face twisted in anger. “You clumsy ass, look what

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you’ve done. How do you retain your position, you ignorant fool? Bring us another bottle at your expense. Now.” The boy turned the same gray color as his vest and scurried away as he clutched the dripping napkins. Teddi was humiliated by Claus’s overblown reaction and slunk down in her chair to avoid the glares of the diners who had twisted around to watch this disgusting sideshow. She had almost begun to enjoy the evening. He was charming when he wanted, even if he did suffer from I-itis. Yet even before his outburst, she hadn’t been able to let down her guard and relax. Her mind flashed to dinners she had shared with Matthew. Funny how she thought of him now but not when she was with David. And funny how lately David popped into her mind more than Matthew. She knew neither man would trust Claus. The maitre d’ ran over to smooth out the fiasco, but nothing pacified Claus who insisted the waiter be fired. Finally the manager offered to comp their meal if Claus sat down and calmed himself. He haughtily accepted the more than gracious offer, but never apologized for his exaggerated reaction. “Teddi Bear, please join me again for dinner,” he said some time later as he sat a little too close in the taxi. Not in this lifetime, buddy. His arm had slid across the back of the seat and cupped her shoulder. She flinched at his touch and tried to pull away but the more she struggled, the firmer he held onto her. “Thank you, but I’m not sure of my plans.” She would not subject herself to another evening with this ass no matter what it cost her. His mood swings were ridiculous. David would never approve of another dinner…. Why should she care what that autocrat David would approve of? She made her own decisions. And she had decided tonight was a monumental mistake. “I’m tired and would like to return to my hotel.” “Nonsense.” Again he discounted her as if she were a nonentity. “It’s just nine

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o’clock. The night has just begun and I promised you a full evening’s entertainment. Besides, as you pointed out, we have business to discuss.” She swiped the tip of her tongue over her dry lips. Apparently that was an open invitation because he leaned closer and tried to kiss her. “No.” She swatted at his hand. The bastard had grabbed her breast! **** “Guten Abend. ” said David as he approached the maitre d’ of the upscale restaurant. “Welcome back, sir. We don’t have a table just yet. Would you like to wait at the bar?” “Ja, send a waiter when it’s ready.” They exchanged a smile as he slipped money into the man’s outstretched hand. “I will see to everything, sir.” He nodded his baldhead as his hand slid into his pocket. David walked the familiar path to the old-fashioned copper bar, still mad because he could not reach his secretary Ann Marie. It was not like her to forget something so important. He should have called and reconfirmed. He needed to pay more attention to his business instead of playing tour guide and throbbing like a randy schoolboy. He ordered vodka with olives and glanced at his watch. He wanted to be done with this nonsense. There was another place he would rather be. His thoughts turned to Theodora and Claus as he sipped his drink.

How

convenient his cousin had maneuvered him. They were probably at dinner in some trendy restaurant that suited Claus’s up-to-the-minute attitude.

He would not be

stupid enough to take her back to his flat and she certainly would be intelligent enough not to go there. Although…he was so underhanded…. David yanked his cell phone from his pocket and punched in Claus’s number. With each jab he grew more irritated. She was guileless and would not know how to handle a pig like Claus. He should have never 77

allowed them to have dinner. The phone rang, but no one answered. **** The bright lights and booming music were more then Teddi could tolerate after sharing a bottle of wine. They pushed their way past the mob and into one of the more quiet rooms. Claus ordered Jagermeister and water as he pulled out his chair. “I’ve had enough alcohol for one night and prefer a soft drink,” she said. Cold steel punctuated each word. The evening had gone from bad to worse. “Ja.” The scantily clad waitress nodded as she wrote on her order pad. “Nonsense, you will have a drink just like everyone else in this overrated club.” He grabbed the server by her arm, his faced etched with disgust. “Bring her what I ordered. She does as I say.” How dare him. She was so angry she couldn’t form any words or move. But she was also apprehensive. He was an unknown entity and she had no experience with someone like him. It wasn’t the time to panic. She had to remain calm, humor him, and get the hell away from him as soon as possible. Screw the contract. The provocative music must have inspired him because, even as she tried to pull away, he grabbed her arm and headed for the crowded dance floor. A wave of nausea swept over her as his hands slid down her back, his fingertips lingering just above her ass. She maneuvered to put space between them and succeeded when she none too daintily stepped on his foot. **** Where the hell was Ann Marie? “Herr Ober.” David raised his empty glass to signal for another drink. And where the hell are Theodora and Claus? He could not call every restaurant in Munich. It was very late. She should have been back in her hotel room. 78

The bartender set down the fresh drink, his mouth pinched tight as he watched David toss back another cocktail. Maybe they were at the hotel. Claus could have easily tricked her if he arrived at her room unannounced. She never locked that damn door. Once in the room he would have touched her, stroked her hair. Cheek. Throat. He gulped another vodka and choked on the rush of anger flooding his throat. He would kiss her, passionate and intense. His tongue would probe deep into her mouth. His hands would skim her breasts and fumble around to free her nipples. He would lick and suck them before he swept her off to bed where he would finish undressing her before he… Again he yanked the phone from his pocket. He stabbed in the number. Again there was no answer. He called the barman for a refill with the hope the cold liquid would squelch the hard-on that threatened to explode. …lowered his head to revel in her body. She would shiver with anticipation. He would slide his hand across her silky skin and kiss her magnificent thighs as he spread them, working his way to…. **** Teddi’s skirt crept up her thigh. She tugged at it and found a hand clamp onto her panties. She yelped and slapped Claus across the face. His look of sheer joy made her blood freeze. Is this fool a masochist? She spun on her heel, marched to the table, and grabbed her purse. “Please sit, I apologize. I can’t help myself. Your beauty overwhelms me,” he said. “Keep your hands to yourself.” She had to get rid of this freak. No contract or amount of money was worth this crap. “Teddi Bear, you fascinate me. I must see you again, soon. I insist we dine together tomorrow and I will not take no for an answer.” He scooted his chair closer

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and leaned forward as he reached for her cheek. Her head jerked back. Anger swelled within her and threatened to wipe out any chance of self-control. **** When they arrived back at the hotel Claus decided the time was right for him to make his move. After all, in his opinion, she’d been very receptive to him and they still had that silly contract to discuss. At dinner, he noticed the hunger in her eyes and the way her lips wrapped around her fork. He knew a come-on when he saw it. She was no innocent girl.

No, she was an experienced woman who knew life and all its

pleasures. His cock swelled as his imagination soared. I know you want me, you little tramp, he thought. Defy me, I promise it will be worth your while. After they arrived at her room, he laid his hand low on the small of her back, where the swell of her ass met her spine, and leaned into her. He felt her heat when she put both of her palms on his chest. He lowered his head. At just that moment she shoved him and he staggered. Satisfaction spread through him. Bile rose in her throat as his face twisted into something non-human. “Teddi Bear, you like loving to be a little rough, eh? He jammed her against the wall. A glaze filmed his eyes. His smile turned into a nauseating grin. “No, Claus, I don’t and I don’t want to kiss you either. Goodbye!” she snapped, fumbling to unlock the door. He grabbed her wrist and stretched her arm high over her head. She wrenched herself free. Masking all emotion, she massaged the abraded skin. “My dear, Teddi Bear, there are pleasures I wish to show you, teach you.” His breath came out in puffs as he stroked her hair. The nauseating stench of old alcohol filled her lungs. “There’s nothing I wish to learn from you.” stomach from convulsing.

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She gulped in air to stop her

“You would look marvelous in leather.” Spittle trickled from the side of his mouth as he lifted her wrist and bit hard on the tender inside flesh. “Naked, arms stretched out, back arched, nipples peaked in anticipation. I am absolutely stiff with longing. See for yourself.” He grabbed her hand and forced it across his cock. OhGodohGodohGod. They were alone in the hallway. There was no way to know if any of the other rooms were occupied. She had to appear calm. Any other reaction would provide him with a sense of power that he would exert to continue his demented behavior. “It will be my extreme pleasure to guide you to new heights of arousal and satisfaction.” His finger trailed down her throat. Someone please help me. Sweat rolled down her back as an image of his scenario flashed in her mind. Somewhere a door slammed and she jumped. “Such joy, you will experience orgasms you have only dreamt about.” His face was wet with sweat. His hands shook as they reached for her. Now. Do it now. “You’re an abomination. You disgust me,” she yelled as her knee drove high into his groin. **** “Bartender, another,” David called out, amazed his words weren’t slurred after all the vodka and lack of food. A dozen or so olives did not constitute a meal. He was not in the mood for food and it was too late to eat anyway. He was angry with everyone and getting angrier by the minute. But most of all, he was angry with himself. To be caught up with that woman, any woman, was not in his life’s plan. Theodora Howard, with her sassy mouth and pride, had taken over his thoughts to the point his business had become secondary. Not a good thing. He had never allowed anyone to derail him from his goal, including Ilsa, and he had loved her. Too many

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years had been spent dedicating his life to a proud business to let it all fade away because his cock had a taste for a little pussy. Now she was off with his asshole cousin. Running all over town. Or worse, back in her hotel room. He was nauseated, but was not sure if it was the booze or the thought of those two pawing and groping each other. How dare she spend the night fucking Claus. She should have been right there, with him. **** Claus decided a celebratory drink was in order. He was convinced Teddi found him and his fantasies irresistible but was just being coy. Or was it her version of foreplay? American women could be so strange regarding sex, a misguided sensibility. He had seen her eyes light up when he described the evening they would share. A few more meetings and he would have her in love with him and in his bed. Hopefully it wouldn't happen in that order. As he walked through the door of the Hard Rock Café he signaled to the bartender who was pouring a whiskey neat. “Guten Abend, Herr Boettner. I will bring this to your table,” he said, lifting the tumbler. Claus curtly nodded as he sauntered across the room to his usual corner table. He snickered as he swirled his drink. “Teddi Bear, you are just another woman, although a tantalizing one. Here’s to possessing you.” After several more quick drinks a picture of David sprang into his mind. His gut twisted as he remembered his life had been a living hell with his mother always nagging him to follow his cousin’s example, study more, work harder. ‘David is such a good boy’; ‘David loves his parents’; ‘David obeys’, he hated the name and the man. He swallowed the last of his drink. Anger grew as the liquor flowed into his veins. “Papa never had time for me. He worked day and night for your slave-driver father,” he said as if the man he resented were seated across the table. His hand 82

enveloped the glass, his knuckles white. “Now they are dead. Again they have turned against me. “I vowed to make you miserable, ruin your life as you did mine. My first victory was Ilsa, the stupid bitch. You were crushed when she chose the young, exciting Claus over the staunch, boring David. All of Bad Wiessee turned out to console me. No one cared about the self-important David Stiefel. “Bartender, another drink,” he called out as he raised his glass in a mock salute. “A toast to you, dear cousin. I hope you enjoyed your evening.” A leggy blonde entered the bar. He considered honoring her with his private leather collection but decided all efforts had to remain focused on his goal. **** David felt like a fool, a drunken fool, but still a fool. He knew the people in the restaurant had watched him as he sat alone for hours. He was angry with Ann Marie. Why couldn’t she be bothered to call and explain her absence? “And those two post-pubescent imbeciles are probably locked in each others arms fucking like dogs in heat,” he snarled at his reflection and dared the damned mirror to shatter. The hell with all of them. He threw a wad of bills onto the bar and stomped out of the restaurant. David staggered around the corner where he collided into a man. “Watch yourself, asshole,” Claus shouted. “Claus, it is David. Are you all right?” he asked as his hand shot out to steady his cousin. “Of course, just a few drinks to commemorate tonight’s victory.” Red. All he saw was bright red as he reared back and punched Claus in the face, knocking him out cold. He stepped over Claus’s prone body and marched off, sick with disgust.

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Chapter Thirteen

“Open this fucking door or I’ll break it down,” David yelled as he banged his sore fist against the wood. He didn’t give a shit if the entire hotel woke up! She was going to explain where the hell she had been and what she had been doing and it damn well better not have been fucking. The door flung open and all he saw was one angry woman with her hands on her hips dressed in a see through robe, nothing else. “Stop screaming. What do you want?” Easy. Her. Now. On the floor. “Where the hell have you been, Theodora? Why have you not answered your phone?” He walked into the room and kicked the door shut behind him. “What in the fuck have you been doing with my jag-off cousin?” “You pig. How dare you come in here accusing me of anything. You don’t own me. Get out.” She pointed to the door and her robe fell open, exposing those big beautiful breasts. He snorted and shook his head. She was his and he would prove it to her. With one sweep he gathered her in his arms and kissed her long and hard. Before she could protest, foreign words were pressed onto her mouth, the words ragged, muttered in his voice thick with need, “Meines Liebling, Ich vollen Sie.: Then in English, “I want you, in every way.”

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Teddi stiffened. David raised his head and gazed deep into her cat’s eyes, afraid his desire and need were too rough, that he had scared her. Perhaps she was not hot like him, or worse, sex with him would be repugnant. He studied her face searching for a sign to move forward.

Her heightened color and swollen lips were all the

encouragement he needed. A wave of shudders raced down his spine. His little head was doing all the thinking now. It needed to be in her, in her wet pussy, sliding in and out. An unwanted thought sprang into his mind. Maybe she had been with Claus. Right now he did not care. He had not been celibate and certainly would not have expected it of this woman who responded with such eagerness. Yet he did care. “Did he touch you?” His head inched back to watch her face, his eyes bored into her soul. An unnerving force gripped him. His heart weighed like lead in his chest, too heavy to allow air into his lungs. “No. No one’s touched me in more than three years.” “I intend to change that.” He scooped her closer, bunching the robe in his fists. He stroked his tongue across her mouth, demanding access. A fierce desire consumed him as her warmth turned to fire, her touch spiraling him into a myriad of emotions. From the moment he first saw her he had to have her. No female had ever consumed him like this strong, sensitive woman. His fingers traced her eyebrow, cheek, drifting down her throat. There they lingered, caressing. Her pulse quickened beneath his touch. Tenderly he kissed the corners of her mouth and chin, following his finger trail to her throat. She tipped her head back giving him full access as her nails dug into him, tugging him closer. His hands glided up her arms.

The soft material slid from her shoulders,

cascading to the floor, leaving her naked before him. He took his time and allowed his eyes to travel over her body. She was tall, proud, and lovelier than any woman on earth. “You are so beautiful, Theodora.” He was harder than he ever thought possible.

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A deep growl rumbled from his chest. The heavy jackknifing in his cock propelled his heart into a rapid tattoo. His hands slid down her body, loving the silk of her skin as they stroked the curved sides of her full breasts. His palms filled with her lushness, pleasured to hear her soft moans as her nipples hardened. He bowed to the little hollow of her throat, kissing it tenderly before his lips and tongue continued their erotic journey down her body. Sensations rocked him as she bucked at his touch. He longed to give her what no man in many years had been allowed to do, the joy of being a woman. **** She smelled the alcohol on his breath before she tasted it. Repulsed by the harsh odor and frightened by his anger, she tried to pull away. He held her tighter and molded his mouth to hers, overwhelming her senses. His solid erection pressed into her. Heat sizzled deep in her vagina. A tidal wave of anticipation rocked her and her knees buckled. Her pulse quickened and her breathing stopped. “Breathe, Theodora,” he said as he nibbled at her throat. She plunged her hands into his tousled black hair, the rich texture arcing shivers up her arms. His body, rock-hard and pressed against hers from shoulder to toe, smelled of leather and man. She tossed her head back, moaning from the sensations. It was all so new, so wonderfully different from anything she’d ever experienced before. She was exactly where she wanted to be, making love with this incredible man. She wanted his mouth and tongue licking and sucking every intimate inch of her. He studied her as he struggled to pull off his shirt. She relished his look. Craved his touch. She rose up on tiptoes, stretching her fingers across his upper arms, the short coarse hairs tingled her fingertips. Her hands skimmed to his broad shoulders, the muscles taut.

A tremor charged to the pit of her stomach.

She recognized the

tremendous power of him and wanted more. Her shaking hands circled the nape of his neck.

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Arching her back, her breasts rose, inviting his caress. His naked chest pressed against her swollen breasts and he slowly rubbed against her from side to side. His rough chest hairs brushing her nipples seared her skin. She gasped at the sublime sensation. His body heat scorched her. With mounting frenzy, she combed her fingers down his chest, luxuriating in the prickle of his crisp hair. The pads of her fingers rested on his nipples. She lowered her head and flicked her tongue over their hardened tips. Cupping her chin, he lifted it and bent his head to nip at the pulse point at the base of her throat. His fiery tongue left a path of singed skin as it descended to her breast. Relentlessly he laved her nipple, suckling on her, pulling it taut until she trembled. His hot, wet mouth ignited raging flames shooting straight to the apex of her thighs. Her mind lost all reason. The outside world no longer existed. There was nothing but the two of them. His hands, his tongue. More than anything she wanted his hot skin burning against her, taste his mouth and tongue, and cradle his cock deep inside her. His thumbs massaged her abdomen, the sensation causing her knees to buckle. She clutched his shoulders, thrusting her hips to him. His face snuggled into her mound of copper. Tender kisses made their way to her inner thigh while his long fingers glided around her ass, teasing her clit. She was wet and hot, driving her insane with desire. “Open your legs, Theodora. I want to breathe in the scent of you,” he rasped, his chin nudging her thighs apart. He inhaled deeply, as if he were filling his lungs with her musky aroma. His fingers rhythmically stroked in and out of her hot pussy taking her higher, to the brink of coming, while his mouth launched into its own sweet seduction. His other hand moved to neatly separate her folds before his lips and tongue began their exquisite exploration. His fingers became more purposeful as his mouth caressed her. Her back arched and she cried out his name. He stopped and looked up at her.

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His eyes, wild with desire, scored her. “No, don’t stop,” she pleaded vibrating with desire, not believing the sensation she’d experienced, wanting more. Her body writhed in ecstasy. Silver and gold flashes had exploded before her eyes. Nothing like that had ever happened to her before and she loved every blessed second. “I want you. Now,” he grated. Unable to trust her voice, she nodded. Curving his arms at all the right places, he scooped her up, his legs eating up the distance to the bed. With one hand he flung the comforter away and gently laid her down. His eyes, black as pitch, never left her face. He swept off his shoes and socks in mere seconds. With shaking fingers, he removed his belt and undid the fly. Slacks and underwear were peeled away in a flash. Teddi didn’t feel vulnerable or exposed. She felt desired and alive like never before. Unashamed of her nudity and burning with passion, she watched his every move from the bed. Hungry to see every inch of his body, she slowly surveyed his muscular shape. She swiped her tongue over her dry lips when her eyes rested on his swollen, purple cock. She was amazed the skin hadn’t torn. At seeing his size her heart beat faster. He jerked his wallet from a pants pocket and fumbled for a condom.

He

removed the foil packet and started to rip it open. “Can I?” she asked, surprised at the thickness of her voice. A moan of delight rumbled from his throat. He lowered himself onto the bed and tenderly kissed her mouth. His tongue parted her lips then dipped inside, firm and hard. She thought of his dick and how the action was like giving him a blow job, which she wanted to do in the strongest way.

His hands stroked her throat and she

shuddered. Once again he caressed her breast. Raising it, he bent his head and suckled her left nipple. Her back arched in sheer joy as her hips ground against him. The incredible urge to touch him, feel his burning skin beneath her fingertips, overwhelmed her. Shifting slightly, she skimmed her fingers across his chest. Lightly she flicked his nipple, slowly increasing the pressure. His body tensed as he moaned.

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She lowered her head and pulled the nipple between her teeth, teasing him. Her hand brushed his skin, moving lower to caress his stomach. Traveling lower, her fingers tangled through the curly hair around his cock and slid along its silky length. She moved her hand up and down, massaging him, gently tugging the skin forward and back to tease the head. A hot bead of cum escaped. She swirled it around then bent over him and licked the tip. “Stop.” He held her under the arms and lifted her. The white skin on his face was drawn taut. “I do not have enough control. I want to be inside you, not waste myself on this duvet.” Whimpering with need, she tore open the condom. She rose up on her knees and positioned the wet film over his cock head. Trembling, she rolled it down, inch over glorious inch. His rigid mouth crashed onto hers, his hands cupped her face, their tongues entwined in a fierce battle of possession. He nudged her willing knees apart then positioned himself between her thighs, the head of his cock caressing her vagina. She wiggled against him then linked her legs around his waist, raising her hips to welcome him. She gripped his rear, pushing down, encouraging him to fill her. “Open your eyes. I want to watch you.” Staring right into her soul he slowly pushed forward, entering her, stretching her. He slid in deep—paused—then slowly pulled almost all the way out. “Please, David, don’t tease me,” she begged. A grin of pure devilment cracked his face as he drove home, burying himself to the hilt. She shuddered from the welcomed impact. Quickly she found the rhythm of his thrusts and responded with a fervor she had never known. Within a few strokes she careened over the edge in an orgasm that shattered her very essence. After a few moments he walked to the bathroom. When he lay back on the bed he rolled to his side and pulled her spoon style. He stroked her arm and breast to ease her down from their intense lovemaking. Sated beyond belief, she snuggled her damp body closer to him. The scent of their sex filled the room. He held her in his arms,

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touching her, her ass pressed against his thighs and she smiled as his cock grew hard, again. “We had fun, didn’t we?” he asked in between laying soft kisses on her shoulders. Is that all this was to him?

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Chapter Fourteen

Claus had never felt so terrible. His body ached to eject the entire contents of his stomach.

He flung one foot onto the floor in the hope it would stop the riotous

spinning, just before he passed out dead drunk. From far away a hideous noise blared through the room. The racket would not stop. He lurched and reeled as he stood. Deciding it took too much effort, he flopped back onto the pillows. Whatever had been so important to wake him would just have to wait. If only the world could end at this moment I would die a happy man, he thought, swallowing the bile that had belched up his windpipe. Late in the afternoon he awoke with a start. Once again he had dreamt of the Trolls and the evil they did to him. His heart raced and his hands shook. He weaved into the kitchen and flipped on the cold water, prepared to drink gallons to squelch the fire searing his throat. Maybe a shower would help, he thought as he walked into the bathroom. He did not recognize the man with the huge shiner and abraded cheek staring back from the mirror, purple and indigo spread from his jaw to his eyebrow. Slowly the memory crept into his mind.

His anger burst out like an explosion as he swung out and

shattered the glass. He went back to the kitchen in search of some aspirin, when he noticed the blinking red light on the answering machine. Steadying himself against the counter, he 91

pressed the play button. “The check has cleared.” The message cut off. “It is now time to begin the serious seduction of the beautiful Teddi Howard,” he said as he tapped out a series of numbers on the phone. “Guten Tag, my dear Teddi Bear. How are you on this glorious day?” He asked, an ice-bag making love to his forehead. “Claus, I’m busy. Is there something you wanted?” Her tone was a little too snippy for his taste. She would learn to behave under his careful tutoring. “Oh yes, lovely lady, there is something I most definitely want.” He grinned, knowing she could not resist him. “I don’t like you or your ways,” she snapped. “Let me put it this way, if the world was flat, I’d book you on a cruise.” The line went dead. Anger welled up, beginning in his mind and overtaking his entire body until he shook with rage. Does she think she can cross me? Women do not discard Claus Boettner. I decide when I’m through with them. And he was not through with Teddi yet. As quickly as it came over him the fury left. Besides, no woman was worth it. They had no power and he held all the control. Perhaps he would have to teach the little American a lesson, he thought as he fingered the fragrant lace in his special drawer.

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Chapter Fifteen

“Look, I thought I made…” Teddi shouted into the phone. “Sis, where the hell have you been? I’ve been worried.” Lonnie’s angry voice crackled through the line. “You’re never there and I’ve called a lot.” “Hi, sweetie,” Teddi said, mustering all the cheer she could. “How’s it go—” “Why did you answer the phone like that? Are you okay?” “Yes, baby. I’m just relaxing, not doing much.” Ha! She fidgeted with the phone cord, aware of how guilty she sounded. Her answer came out too quick, too tense. “Nothing interesting you need to discuss?” her little sister grilled. “Any new friendships I should know about?” The light began to dawn and the fog lifted. Eleanor was afraid she would meet someone and shove her into second place or worse. “Don’t worry, honey, nothing will ever take me away from you. It’s you and me, kid, to the end.” “Nope, you misunderstood. I want you to find a man. You’re young, vibrant, you shouldn’t be alone anymore.” Was this a conspiracy? First Francine and now Lonnie easing her down the debauchery road. “My concern is you’ll jump off a cliff. Get my drift?” Huh. “No.” “Look, as vulnerable as you are, some hunky gigolo can come along, sweep you 93

right into bed and then dump you. You’re not the type to sleep around. I hope.” “Okay, that’s enough,” Teddi snapped, irritated by the implication she would turn into an instant tramp while in Europe. “I understand and appreciate your concern, but don’t you think it’s a bit soon for the role reversal thing? Shouldn’t you wait until I’m back in diapers?” “Don’t get mad. I know you. You’ll go off half-cocked and then later regret your actions. Just think before you do something stupid.” “You can drop that doctor attitude with me, little missy. I’m a grown woman who has at least some common sense. I will not do anything stupid.” What a joke. “That’s all I ask.” A sigh came across the line. “I have to go. A patient is walking through my door. I’ll call you in a couple of days.” A patient walking through the door, she thought, please let it be some wimpy pickpocket with zero interest in females. A soft thud on the door brought her back to the present. She accepted the envelope from the porter and slit it open. Of all the nerve. There was absolutely no notice, as if the Baroness had every right to command her. Why would the ice maiden invite her to a supper? She bristled and tossed the note-card into the trash, then turned to answer the phone. “Did you receive a summons from the Baroness?” David asked. “Yes and I threw it out. She no more wants my company than she wants an impacted tooth,” Teddi grumbled, for in her heart she knew Gisela was up to no good. “Will you accompany me? That way we can make an appearance and leave on some pretext.” His voice was husky. She knew the pretext she’d pick, if given a choice. “Why, sir, are you asking me for a date?” It was an appealing thought, but did they have to go to the Ice Maiden’s dinner? Discouraged, she asked, “Do you insist?” “Yes.” The single word left no room for discussion. “What do I wear to a Baroness’ supper? I do believe I left my tiara back in Chicago.” “Anything you wear will be spectacular.”

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She heard the smile in his voice and her heart zinged. With David at her side she could face anything, even this unbearable situation. **** “Ja, all is well. They will scrutinize David’s finances.” Claus grew hard as his hand stroked his cock. “Computers are wonderful tools, my dear.” He heard her sigh as if she was bored with their conversation, but he knew she needed the information to seal a relationship with David. “Why do you hate him?” he asked. “He has always acted as if I didn’t exist. It infuriates me to want someone to the point of aching and then be thoroughly ignored,” Gisela said. “Remember, little man, there’s a fine line between love and hate. My toes dance back and forth over that line regarding your handsome cousin.” He hated her. She needed to be taught a lesson. For once he would be in control and not be her slave. The cold, calculating she-devil must be taught a lesson. “That American bitch has him enraptured.” Savage criticism rang in her voice. “David has spurned me and no one does that.” An icy silence filled the air just before the line went dead. **** David walked into Teddi’s hotel room pissed at her continued negligence. Once again the door wasn’t closed properly. “Will you never learn?” he called out, slamming the door. Not even this lapse in security would deter him from gaining the information he wanted. Tonight she would explain, in detail, what the hell was going on with Claus and just where the hell she had been most of the night. And the answers had better be what he wanted to hear. “No, no, I left the door ajar on purpose. In case I didn’t hear you knock,” Teddi

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lied while adjusting an amber earring. “A poor excuse is as good as none, Liebschen. Do not fib to me.” Even to him his voice sounded concerned. Too damn bad. He wanted this silly woman more every time he saw her and knew she needed his protection to navigate this crazy world. “Please, be more careful. I do not wish to belabor the point, but I care that you are safe.” With a glance in the mirror, she adjusted the belt of her yellow long-sleeve wool dress. Just looking at her, filling his lungs with her scent, made his cock hard. His pledge to maintain a safe distance was more difficult each day. He wanted this woman. Had to have her. But he had to be sure that she wanted him and not Claus. He would not go through that again nor did he want to be a replacement for her dead husband. “I’ll be ready in a moment.” She glanced up at him through the mirror, as she fumbled with an oversized amber and silver pendant. “Would you please get the clasp? It’s not closing right.” He stepped behind her as she lifted her hair, baring the nape of her slender neck. His eyes strayed from the necklace to her inviting skin. He choked back a flood of desire as his lips tasted her warm flesh. “You are the most beautiful woman I have ever met,” he whispered as his arms engulfed her.

She turned, eyes bright with expectation.

He kissed her, the want

pouring from him. Her mouth opened as his tongue made tender swipes across her swollen lips. Then he murmured against her mouth, “It would be a more satisfying evening if we stayed here wrapped in each others arms.” He kissed her again. A jolt of current surged through his body. Every touch, every caress fueled him. His cock was like a battering ram and the pre-come was slipping out over the head, exciting him even more. He pressed his hard dick into her soft abdomen and that was when he lost his ability to reason and remember his question. To her amazement, she returned his kiss with a fierce intensity even with all the noise in the background. She wished the distracting sounds would stop, they were

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getting on her nerves, until she realized the moans and pants were coming from her. Just as quickly as he claimed her, he set her aside. Her hormones screamed under the emotional seesaw. “No more. It is time we go,” he said as his fingers skimmed her cheek. He clasped her hands, tugging them from around his neck, and raised a palm to his lips. It was then he noticed her purple wrist. “What the hell is this?” His glare made it almost impossible for her to lie. “Nothing, I slipped.” David would kill Claus if he knew the truth. “Slipped? Impossible. I want the truth. Now.” “Please, it’s really nothing. Just like the old book, ‘I’m Okay, You’re Okay.’” Her stab at humor wasn’t working. She wiggled free and tugged her sleeve into place. “Theodora, this wasn’t here yesterday.” He pointed to her wrist. “We will go nowhere until you explain.” “Please, I don’t want to talk about it right now. Maybe when we come back.” She bent and grabbed her cape. The last thing she wanted to do was explain her disastrous evening with Claus. Tonight would be stressful enough without adding to her problems. “We’re late and need to leave.” **** “Some intimate group. There must be a hundred people here,” said Teddi, handing her coat to the butler in Gisela’s multi-level townhouse. They walked into the white-on-white formal living room to the soft sounds of a stringed quartet. She raised her head to find the white tuxedoed musicians nestled overhead in a loft area. “She has probably slept with everyone here,” David dryly commented. “Everyone?” A burst of fire seared her heart. She looked at him with a raised eyebrow and waited for an answer. “Come, I see Heicke and Wolfe by the bar.” He led the way across the room with

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an occasional nod or wave to the other guests. Introductions and greetings were exchanged as the waiter approached with a tray of drinks. David accepted two glasses of champagne and handed her a flute. Wolfe Deider shook Teddi’s hand and held it while his gray eyes slowly traveled over her, up one side and down the other, before they settled on her mouth. David watched, his face etched into a scowl. “Let go, man.” Heicke jabbed Wolfe in the ribs and nodded to David. “The woman already has a lifeline. “Good evening, Frau Howard.” Heicke jerked her hand from Wolfe’s. “Don’t you think that after all these years you could be less formal? I’m just Teddi, plain and simple.” “There could be nothing plain and simple about you,” Wolfe’s sultry voice broke in. It was obvious he was coming on to her. “You must forgive my boyhood friend, Theodora.

He comes by his name

naturally.” David turned to Wolfe, his mouth set in a grim line. “Knock it off.” It was all too much. How lucky could one girl get to be surrounded by three hunks? Her mind filled with the image of three trim butts clad only in lycra shorts, running across a soccer field chasing a black and white ball as the men abandoned themselves to the rough game. Calf muscles straining… Thigh muscles ripcord taut… Biceps pumping to reach out for the ball…. She snatched up a cardboard coaster and fanned her hot cheeks. “Theodora, is something wrong?” David asked, his face close to hers. The heady aroma of David, the intoxicating scent of man and spice unique to him, engulfed her. “No. No. Just warm all of a sudden,” she stammered as she tugged off her neck scarf. Heicke and Wolfe grinned like third graders who had placed a frog on the teacher’s chair. Their winks confirmed her suspicion that they thoroughly enjoyed her

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discomfort. The conversation lapsed into German. Even though David tried to include her, the Bavarian dialect made it impossible for her to translate. She suspected she was the topic of conversation and it was pissing her off. “Meine Frau…” David began as he bent toward her. Heicke and Wolfe looked at each other, their eyebrows shot up to their hairlines. They seemed to understand David’s expression, even if she didn’t. She suspected trouble lay ahead as she watched the two of them with their heads together and whispering like little boys up to some unmerciful trick. Gisela glided over to welcome her guests. She clutched David’s arm and smiled wickedly into his cold eyes and lifted her glass in a salute. “The lady in red,” said Wolfe. He raised her hand and brushed his lips against the bright red nails. “You look absolutely luscious, madam.” The Baroness knew how to make herself the center of attention. Nice outfit, if you like low cut crimson and enough breast hanging out to make a cow envious. The three baboons paying homage didn’t do a thing to improve Teddi’s mood. She sipped her wine that now tasted like battery acid. “Danke, Herr Deider.” Gisela’s slash of a red mouth lifted at the corners. She turned to David and gushed, “Poor dear, you look as if you need someone to perk you up. Perhaps what you need is a German woman.” Teddi’s attempts to join the conversation, conducted by the Baroness and directed only to David, were met by a drop-dead glare.

Gisela maneuvered her

position to be in front of the three men with her back to Teddi, creating a barrier to the foursome. Over the background noise, Teddi only caught snippets of the dialogue. “Oh darling…hard…. “Love…Ilsa….” There was that name again. Someone had used it before. Teddi scrunched her brow trying to remember the details. Who was she? Strange her name came up when 99

David was around. Another one of his icy tramps waiting in line? “Fingers…yes, here… “You naughty devil… “Later…tonight…here…” What was it between them? She obviously wanted him. He had to see it. Why was he playing hard to get? Was he using Teddi to make the Baroness jealous? Games, their little group loved to play games. Heicke and Wolfe, with sheepish looks on their faces, did their utmost to include Teddi. Their attempts failed as Gisela inclined her body just enough to fend off their gallantry. Apparently they knew they were out of their element and turned to talk with a group behind them. Embarrassed to be the third wheel, she thought about how she could gracefully extradite herself, as if anyone would notice, when the Wicked Witch of Bavaria finally acknowledged her. “Excuse us, we see people we would like to be with,” said Gisela with an ice-age chill. She tugged at David’s arm then led him from the room. There he went, like a puppy on a leash. More like a dog in heat. Not a word or even a look for Teddi. And there she stood, alone, in the center of the room. rapidly changed to anger at the crude insult.

Her embarrassment

She swore under her breath while

cynicism replaced her potpourri of emotions. It seemed the little tea party had been planned to humiliate her. She caught fragments of other conversations but it was impossible, in her frame of mind, to casually walk up and join one of the cloistered groups. Besides, there was more German spoken than English. There was only one option, get the hell out of there. She spun on her heel and collided into a waiter. He steadied his teetering pate tray then held it out, and offered her hors d’oeuvres. “Since you are American, perhaps madam, you would like to tour a German kitchen?” he asked and gestured across the room. Was he crazy or what? Then it dawned on her. The man had caught the

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unmerciful slur and was helping her. Gratefully, she allowed the waiter to provide an escape from the inquisitive eyes of the other guests. With heads bent, as if in deep conversation, they walked through the crowd and into the white walled kitchen exhaustively decorated in black. Only the ceramic floor had a brief relief with an occasional red tile. Every conceivable modern appliance was positioned to make the room a culinary dream. And they all looked as if the price tags still hung on their handles. It was a perfect backdrop for the Wicked Bitch of Bavaria. She opened the lowest of the three ovens to be sure Hansel or Gretel wasn’t stuck in it. **** Alone in her bedroom, Gisela stroked David’s leaden arm and tried to pull in around her. “Meine Frau, my woman, how sweet, David. Does your little American appreciate your tender words? Or does she only want your thick wallet by sucking your schwanz?” His shoulders squared and he knew his face froze in a grimace. She changed her tactics and mewed into his face, “Darling, why do you shun me?” “Baroness, I have never given you any indication I would be interested in your time or bed. You have enjoyed every man I know, and I do not like being part of a crowd. I prefer to be the leader.” “There’s so much I could teach you. If only you’d drop this cold politeness. We are meant to explore the utmost stimulation and gratification together.” “Nein, we are not. You may interpret my words and actions as you choose. They do not change, you do not appeal to me,” he snapped. “I am polite for Rhineholdt’s benefit. Although why he is attracted to you is beyond me. You are selfish, cruel, and I sincerely believe, perverted. In essence, Baroness, you sicken me.” “So, the little American has really caught your eye. German women are no longer good enough for you.” Hatred oozed from her dry red lips like blood. “Not all German women, Gisela, just one.” He yanked her milky hand from his 101

arm and coldly said, “Thank you for the invitation. Please do not bother to show us out. Now excuse me. There is a real woman I would like to be with.” David pulled the door shut, then caught Heicke’s eye as he returned to the party. His old friend wagged his head and pointed to the kitchen. **** “Theodora, I have been looking for you.” He frowned, his arms folded across his chest. “What are you doing in here?” “Yeah, and I’m Shrek looking for Princess Fiona.” “Liebschen, you confuse me. You are much too soft and feminine to be an ogre,” he said as his arm slid around her waist. “Are you ready to go?” “What, the Baroness not satisfying enough?” “Theodora, your implication is rude and tasteless.” “I’m rude! What about the Bitch of Bavaria?” “Gisela had a problem which needed to be addressed.” “An overactive libido no doubt.” “Meine Frau, are you plagued by a green-eyed monster?” He laughed as he hugged her close. “You appear to be jealous.” “Look, Big Time, you’re the last man on earth I want to be with. But since I came with you, I have to go home with you. It’s an old American rule. Just don’t let it go to your head.” All the while she blustered, she devoured the sight of him like a woman with PMS at a chocolate buffet. She squared her shoulders and snorted. “Jealous? In your dreams.” What a pompous ass. He was the only green-eyed monster she had to worry about.

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Chapter Sixteen

“Do not enter,” ordered David in a whisper as they approached her suite. Teddi looked over his shoulder and saw light picture framing her suite door. “I made sure this door was locked when we left. Stay here.” He gingerly walked into the room looking for signs of an intruder. Teddi trailed inches behind him. He stopped short and she banged into his backside. He turned and glowered, “Do you never listen? Stay here.” As stealthy as a cat he walked through the living room into the bedroom. He pushed the voluminous drapes aside then crouched at the foot of the bed. Confident no one was there, he headed for the walk-in closet. Once inside he called to her. She ran to him, heart pounding, praying he was all right. Relief swept over her as she entered. When her breathing returned to normal she scanned the space and saw the clothes had been ripped from their hangers and flung across the floor. The drawers of jewelry, lingerie, and incidentals were dumped into a chaotic heap. “Now will you be sure the door is always locked?” he roughly demanded. Her eyes darted around but she couldn’t assimilate the confusion. “Do not touch anything. We must call the police. Heicke will change your room, this one is not safe.” He stooped to examine a small shiny object on the floor. Even though she saw him, heard him, she couldn’t speak. Her brain would not process the words and actions. “Theodora, are you all right?” He shook her arm. She was frozen to the floor. 103

“Come, sit. I will remedy this.” She stared up at him, dazed. A stranger had entered the privacy of her suite and felt he or she had the right to rifle through her personal items. Stealing didn’t concern her. It was the intimacy of breaking, entering, and touching her clothing that scared her. She had been violated. Her body went into a volley of shivers when she thought about what could have happened had she been there alone in the room, when this freak broke in. Her hand flew to her mouth and she just made it into the bathroom. **** Heicke carried a tray with hot tea when he arrived to inspect the situation. He knelt before Teddi, cajoling her to swallow the sweet beverage, insisting it would allay her shock. He offered to have the night maid clean up the mess. She refused. The thought of another stranger pawing her belongings must have been unbearable. Her head dropped into her hands when Heicke announced the police would have to be called. David spoke to Heicke out of her earshot. Both men returned to the closet where David squatted down and stabbed his finger at a gold cufflink. “Are you sure it is not yours?” Heicke’s faced paled. “Very. It belongs to Claus.” He picked it up as if it were contaminated. “We must call the police,” Heicke began, but David cut him off. “He is my cousin. I will take care of this.” “Are you crazy?

You cannot protect him all his life.

He has to be held

accountable for his actions. This borders on mania.” He swept his hand over the mess. “What was stolen?” “Theodora has not yet inventoried the room. We returned just before I called you.” “What did you find?” Teddi asked. Two enormous pools stared out from her ashen face. Her eyes flew to his hand, forcing him to open it, then traveled upward

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demanding an answer. Heicke turned to David as if he too wanted an explanation. When none came he said, “Teddi, it may have been Claus who did this. We found this cufflink. David is positive it belongs to him.” **** “Have you invited him into your suite?” The dry tone was nothing compared to the stony look on his face. “Don’t be ridiculous! I abhor the fool. He stiffed me over a tour contract. Took the money and ran. I came to Munich to confront him and force him to honor our agreement.” She shook her head. It was all too much. “In fact he called today, gushing, and it nauseated me. He nauseates me. In no uncertain terms I told him to get lost. I don’t care about his damned renege on the contract. I’ll find some other tour operator to make it work out or I’ll do it myself.” She couldn’t decide if she was hurt by his implication or angry at his selfrighteous attitude. The emotional roller coaster she’d ridden the last twenty-four hours wiped out her ability to make a rational decision. “You’ve got one sick cousin. Did you know that? He was terribly disappointed I’m not into whips and nipple clamps.” She turned and saw Heicke. Heat flooded her face. The two men looked at one another, their expressions grim. Heicke wore an ‘I told you so’ look while David’s face was an impervious mask. “There will be no police. I will take care of this.” He turned his back to her. “Heicke, tomorrow you will have Theodora moved to a different suite. Under no circumstances is the room number to be given out. She will provide you with a list of callers, and only those people are to be put through. If anyone else inquires for her they are to be told she has checked out and returned home.” When he turned back his granite face left no room for discussion.

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Bossy sonovabitch. “Heicke, I’ll move to a different room only if you have one available and it’s not an inconvenience.

There’ll be no maid. I’ll pack myself.

That is as far as your

instructions are to go.” Glaring at David, with her hands on her hips, she said, “I will not live in a vacuum. If you know who did this then there’s nothing to fear. And that is the end of this discussion, Herr Stiefel.” David was furious. Every inch of his rigid body and cold face showed his anger. He kept quiet as if he knew anything less would provoke another argument. Heicke seemed grateful to escape. His expression said it all—they were both crazy and deserved each other. **** “David, I’ve only found one item missing.” Teddi braced herself before she added, “My panties are gone. I’d worn them, then put them in my suitcase with the other dirty clothes.” He racked his hands through his hair. His face, drawn and haggard, revealed the pain and shame at having such a person in his family. “Claus is a very disturbed man. For years I have suspected his perversions were to the extreme, but I never thought he would require trophies.” “There’s something I must tell you.” Nervous and a little frightened, she knew he had to be told. It wasn’t the time to hold back. She couldn’t protect David. “The other night, when Claus and I had dinner, he suggested I would enjoy his special room. Some sort of bondage setup.” His head snapped up, eyes dark and stormy. His fists clenched at his side. “And what did you do?” His words ricocheted around the room. “I asked him if he had a leather thong in a size twelve,” she snapped. “What the hell do you think I did? I remained as calm as possible. I knew violence would enflame his perversion. I told him he disgusted me and to never come around me again. Then I 106

shoved him away after he pinned me against the wall.” Her eyes lowered to her fidgeting hands.

This was a serious problem, far above anything she’d ever

experienced. She had to squelch the fear pounding in her chest. “Apparently he felt I wasn’t serious.” David clasped her bruised wrist, his eyebrow cocked, waiting for an answer. “Yes.” Hot tears welled in her eyes, making it impossible to see. A barrage of angry German words exploded from deep in his chest. “I want someone with you every moment. It will be me except for the times I must conduct business.” He cupped her chin and raised it. “You are never to be alone, unprotected. Is that understood?” “I don’t need a bodyguard or a babysitter.” She laid a reassuring hand on his arm in an attempt to calm him. “I’ll agree to change my room, but there’s really no reason. Heicke can have the locks changed where he and I have the only keys. See? All settled,” she said with feigned brightness because inside she was scared to death. “No, meine Frau, nothing is settled. But soon, I promise you, very soon.” Before she could answer, the telephone rang. “Hey boss, what’s going on over there?” Francine’s voice exploded into her ear. “All of a sudden our business has really picked up. I’ve had to work three girls every day.” “That’s great. Why the big change?” Teddi snapped to attention, she’d never believed in the Good Fairy. “Some gal named Anne Marie is ordering Business Class tickets to Europe by the truckload. So far we’ve issued forty-one tickets. She has a platinum credit card that has a limit in outer space.” She gasped for air before charging on, “I told her how much she can save if we use a wholesaler. No problem, but if we do that we must add twentyfive percent for our labor. Must. Don’t you love it?” Teddi glanced at David and smiled sweetly. Every nerve ending stretched to the limit. “Then today this Anne Marie calls and books a celebratory cruise for fifty people 107

because some huge deal in Canada is about to close.” Her manager’s elation at the business upswing was evident. If Teddi wasn’t seething with rage she too would’ve glowed from the good news. A loud bang exploded into the phone and Teddi jumped. What the hell? “The girls are ecstatic, champagne for everyone. We have toasted your return to former glory with every glass.” Whoops and slurred words were shouted into the phone. “Actually, I think they’re a little drunk. Aren’t you ready to burst?” “Burst doesn’t quite cover it,” she said, measuring every word. “We figured maybe you finally got it together and made a sales pitch to a bigshot company.” Slurp. “How come you kept it a secret?” “Whose name is on that credit card?” Teddi demanded, ignoring her question. It didn’t take a genius to figure out what name she would hear. “Stiefel Boots.” The joy had left her voice. “Is there a problem?” “No. Everything is okay. The card’s good. You girls go out for dinner tonight on me and celebrate. I’ll talk to you in a few days.” She hung up the phone, her jaw gnashed so tight her teeth ached. She swooped around to face the cretin who had caused her nothing but grief and exploded, “How dare you? Don’t you think I have any pride? Ability?” He looked up from the sofa, eyes wide in shock. She could almost read his mind. Didn’t this silly woman realize he only wanted to help her? It was in her best interest if he directed his Anne Marie to use her agency. The arrogant jerk. “This is not an area you bulldoze your way into and demand your employees use a specific agency. It’s done in a proper manner, a business manner. The agency owner, that would be me, makes a formal written proposal to the person in charge of travel, which is Anne Marie. Carefully selected wholesalers are described along with their benefits. Those two people meet and determine the best deal for their respective companies and any perks that person finds necessary to swing her business to my agency.” Shaking with anger, hands clutched into fists, she took a step closer to the sofa. 108

“Do you notice how there’s no overbearing CEO, that would be you, in this scenario?” “Meine Frau, you are upset without cause. I want to help you. You have a good business. It only needs a little assistance for you to regain your confidence.” He stood and reached for her. She couldn’t bear the thought of his touch. And no way would she listen to reason. “I can’t believe you would do this. Feeling sorry for the poor, lonely widow? How could you humiliate me this way?”

With her fists planted on her hips she

shouted, “Well, what do you have to say for yourself?” “You are very beautiful with those gorgeous eyes blazing right into my soul,” he began in a worthless attempt to smooth over the situation. “I told you I insisted on helping—” “You told me? You told me. Did I ask for your interference? No. I don’t recall that conversation,” she said sarcastically as she advanced on him. “I don’t want, nor do I need your help. My company is my business. How would you like it if I jumped in and started directing your company? Ha! The picture’s clearer, isn’t it? You wouldn’t like it one little bit.” “The difference, Theodora, is one company is successful while the other needs help to regain its former importance.

I admit it was improper for me to make a

directive. It was done with good intentions, never meant to upset you.” Again he reached for her. She jerked back. Frustration at his pigheadedness and his lack of an apology set her off again. “Look, bud, you know what they say about good intentions paving the road to hell?” Indignation elevated her voice to the sound of fingernails dragging down a blackboard. “Now crank up that big BMW of yours and enjoy the ride!” Flying at him with palms raised, she tried to shove him toward the door but he wouldn’t budge. If he could issue orders, so could she. “And lift that directive. Today.” He caught her wrists in a vice-like grip.

Holding her at arm’s length he

cautioned, “Theodora, you will not dislodge me. I am considerably bigger and stronger 109

than you.” His brute force incensed her even more. She swung her foot out to kick his shin. “Look at me,” he ordered. “Be reasonable. I have many employees who must travel. Either my overworked secretary has been responsible for their arrangements or has passed the tedious work onto any secretary who could find the time. There was complete disorganization. “We did not receive invoices or adequate itineraries. Many times we could not contact the traveler when necessary. It was logical to utilize one specific agency to plan the trips and complete the details. I had never taken the time to research the benefits. You came along and the opportunity presented itself. It was not personal. It was business. I made a good business decision.” “Twenty-five percent is good business? Don’t lie to me,” she ground out. “I do not lie, Theodora.” His voice was so cold she shivered. “I do what is right for my company.” “You don’t get it,” she said, shaking her head. “You ordered this woman to use us. She didn’t have the option to interview other agencies or the authority to choose the best.” “You don’t get it. We are talking about my business. I make the choices.” “It must be a real pleasure working for a control freak like you. Ever hear of empowering your employees? “This is getting us no where. Do you want me to leave?” “Yes.” She was close to tears and couldn’t take another moment of stress after all that had happened today.

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Chapter Seventeen

Poached eggs and bacon were her favorite way to start the day, but the meal sat like lead in her stomach. Afraid to swallow another bite, Teddi pushed herself from the room service cart. The coffee, bitter and cold, made bile rise in her throat. It sure wasn’t the successful business trip she’d planned. Somehow she had to force Claus to accept responsibility for the tour contract he’d signed. Maybe she should apologize to David and get his help since he owned the damned company. David. Their encounter hadn’t been planned, it just happened. She had loved Matthew and reality caved in on her like an avalanche. No, not past tense, now, now and forever, just as they had vowed. Yes, past tense as in had loved, for many happy years, even in the bad times. No one could ever change that and those memories would always be dear to her. However, their vows had been ‘until death do you part’. It was a cold hard fact, life had altered without her consent. She had to accept it, no matter how she felt. That was then, this was now. Grief had its place and after all this time she, the surviving partner, must let go. Never forget, simply move forward. She had learned she was no longer bound by the past. The world had much to offer. She had much to offer. Her future was limitless. An exhilarating emotion soared through her. Freedom. 111

Free to be the woman she wanted to be. Needed to be. Free to love and be loved. And most important, free to face the future alone if that was her choice. Realization hit her hard at how much she missed David. The mental struggles of the solitary days left her miserable. Night after night she wrestled with her feelings. Stress had always had a harsh effect on her, even more so when she was emotionally strung out. A quick glance in the mirror confirmed that the insomnia, which had plagued her, left deep blue smudges beneath her bloodshot eyes, which no amount of make-up would hide. Why didn’t he call or just pop in like he use to? Days had passed without any contact. Maybe he’d had an accident? More then likely he awoke one morning and regretted his impetuousness. He’d probably decided she was just another conquest, a trophy to hang on his bedpost. Or worse. What if he thought she was nothing but a tramp? A heart-wrenching sob broke from her throat. No point in fooling herself. She missed David. It was more then the exhilaration of sex. He made her feel alive. She wanted to be with this man who freely gave and shared. A lifetime would be too short. That stubborn, tender, irascible yet passionate, over-bearing egotistical, remarkably sensual man had stormed into her life then, within a matter of days, was gone. Matthew had been a jealous man, but never selfish. Teddi was a vibrant woman with strong feelings and intense desires. He must have known she would eventually need someone to talk with, hold, and love. And it wouldn't be just anyone. He had to be a man of integrity and, hopefully, a little devilish. Matthew would have liked that devilish part. She could almost see him grinning at her fine mess. One afternoon a bouquet of roses arrived at her suite. The porter, camouflaged by the arrangement, staggered to the antique writing desk. A delicate aroma wafted behind him. Ecstatic, Teddi tore open the envelope. Disappointment shot through when she read Claus’s signature. She was convinced David had sent the beautiful

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flowers as a peace offering. Claus not calling was a blessing. He was a snake. It was obvious he had some serious issues, which needed to be addressed, but he was the one who had to seek resolution. She finally understood the true character of that waste of a man. So he grows his own herbs. That scum probably didn’t even know what they were. Her mood switched from anger to gloom. It must have all been a game to both of them. Who can win a flop in bed with the lonely woman first. Lonely? She’d never been lonely, at least not for any long period of time. Since Matthew had died her life was filled with Lonnie, work, friends, and gardening. Okay, so maybe once in a while she was lonely, at least she was never bored. There wasn’t enough time in the day to do all she wanted. She crammed in enough activities to fill her hours so she wouldn’t have to go home, alone, to an empty house. When had loneliness settled in? Being the third wheel at restaurants and stage plays wasn’t the best part of her social life. But was she lonely? My God, she was. “What’s wrong with me?” She raked her hands through a mass of tangled hair. Maybe she was losing her mind. Her entire world had changed again, just when there was finally someone to talk with, share. She needed him. Need. Teddi froze. I love him. And now he acts as if we’ve never met. And that jerk started all of this. I love that demanding arrogant sonova…. She snatched up the phone and ordered Herr Brewer be paged. “Heicke, this is Teddi Howard. How can I reach David?” “Frau Howard, Teddi, David has gone. He was called back to Chicago on urgent business. Didn’t you receive a note?” “No, nothing.” She dropped the phone back into its cradle. “Note. There wasn’t any note. Heicke’s just protecting his frat brother.” Teddi flew around the room like a whirlwind, jamming the pretty new clothes into her suitcases. “Emergency in Chicago, yeah, the emergency of getting laid by some

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new broad.” She’d make the tour work if it killed her. Better yet, she’d kill Claus for screwing up her business and she’d kill David, if she ever bothered to acknowledge he existed, for screwing up her mind. It would be easy to hire a car, get on the Autobahn headed for parts unknown, and book every hotel and restaurant needed to give her clients the best fucking trip they ever had. She stooped to pick up her blue leather glove, fuming because the mate was nowhere around, and stuffed it into a pocket.

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Chapter Eighteen

“Mr. Stiefel, may I hang up your coat?” asked the slim flight attendant, after he found his assigned seat. “Ja, Danke. I need some papers from the pocket first.” His fingers dipped into the outside pocket of his charcoal gray suit coat. The blood drained from his face when he pulled out a blue leather glove. “Sir, are you all right? Do you need a doctor?” She grabbed his arm. “Nein, nein. It has passed,” he answered as he fought to regain composure. “I should call the Captain.” “I told you it has passed, now leave me.” He shook off her irritating grip. Her glove. It had been on the floor that first night after dinner. Her perfume lingered on the scrap of leather. His nostrils flared as he sucked in the sweet fragrance. Visions of their time together flickered in his mind.

Like a movie editor seeking perfection, he

scrutinized each frame as the scenes played out in slow motion. He did a freeze-frame of her face, when she had smiled at the waitress as she ordered their beer. The sound of her throaty laugher sang in his ears, so real as if she were there, seated next to him. Enough. The projection shut down and blackness replaced the treasured memories. It was time to concentrate on business. There were important issues to be decided. Claus’s scheme to ruin Stiefel Boots was stopped.

The lawyers had gained 115

dismissals on the lawsuits. Anne Marie was back to her calm, professional self. The time had come to confront the Vice President of European Operations. A meeting David was happy to host. He reread the reports, getting sicker with every word. Inferior materials had been purchased from a company in Asia with the money Claus had embezzled from the tour business. Neither the purchasing agent nor the plant manager was aware of the change. Every signed document was in order, but their signatures had been forged onto bogus invoices. Inventory that should have been shipped had disappeared and their orders were backlogged. The store owners were irate. David could not understand how all the information had been kept secret, nor could he bring himself to press criminal charges against his younger cousin.

The

German laws were very strict on industrial fraud and Claus would be imprisoned for many years. It would break Mutti’s heart. His mother had stamina and a strong will but all this family shame, aired through the courts and newspapers, would kill an eighty year old woman. He could not let that happen. The long flight seemed endless. The movements of the crew and other passengers brought only a hint the hours had crept by. He fidgeted, checking his wristwatch, pacing up and down the aisle, until the attendant forced him to take his seat and stay there. All he could do to fill his time was doodle on his drink napkin No longer could he shove away the thoughts of Teddi. She was extraordinary, with an inner strength apparent by the set of her jaw and walk. She was definitely headstrong, fierce in her beliefs, and ready to battle when she was hurt or angry. But her anger quickly melted into delightful peals of laughter that made him smile. She radiated energy. Life would never be dull with her. She was a woman to savor. He had never seen eyes like hers, the color of rich amber. A man could get lost forever in those wide trusting eyes and the way they smoldered whenever he touched her. His heart pounded as he remembered her reactions and he reeled from an intense need for her. A fervent urgency to see her, hold her, protect her and to spend his entire life with her, shook him.

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I love her. More then anything else in the world, he realized. He glanced up and mouthed the words to the movie screen in front of him, liking the feel of them on his tongue. Somewhere along the way his lust had magically turned into love. He silently vowed to never hurt her. He would devote his life to cherishing her. She was his everything. His heart swelled with love for her. Would this interminable flight never end? He jumped from his seat and paced the aisles like a lion at feeding time, daring the attendant to say one word. **** “Heicke, where is she?” David bellowed, bursting into his friend’s private office. “I told you, Teddi left three days back. Do you not read your e-mails?” “Ja, that is the reason why I returned. I need to see Theodora, now.” His footsteps echoed as he stomped across the marble floor. “There is no way to know where she went. A rental car was waiting for her at the front door. She was so angry she would not allow the porter to assist with her luggage. By the look on her face, the boy was afraid to insist. She jerked the cases up the stairs to our entrance then she hefted the bags into the air and literally threw them out the door. Thank God they did not burst open. She was so angry no one dared to laugh.” Heicke stood and walked to the front of the desk. “The note you sent her was put in the wrong mail slot. She never got it. I am truly sorry. That kind of thing just does not happen in my hotels. I tried to give her the note and find out where she was going, but that’s one fiery redhead when she gets mad. I think you will have your hands full if you ever find her.” “Oh, I will find her all right. Make no mistake about that. She is the most exasperating female I know.” “How can I help?” “What car agency did she use?” 117

“Sixgt Budget. What good is that?” David edged behind the desk and lifter the phone receiver. “Guten Tag, this is Detective Schmidt from the Munich Special Crimes Force. You rented a car to an American woman, Theodora Howard, five-eight, beautiful, reddish hair.”

He

drummed his fingers while he listened. “Look in your files. This is top priority.” Heicke’s jaw dropped at David's action. “Good. Did she give you any indication of where she would go?” David looked up and winked. “Ja, it is imperative. The police wants her for jewelry theft. Thousands of Euro dollars in precious gems were stolen from the Platzl Hotel security boxes. “South? Where south? Danke.” He hung up with a wicked grin spread ear to ear. “Are you insane? She will garrote you when the police pick her up.” As David walked to the door, Heicke called out, “Name your first son after me.” “If she went south and the angels are with me, it has to be to Bad Wiessee.” He turned his head back and with a wink added, “As to your request, definitely my old friend. I plan to start working on that immediately.” Once on the Autobahn, David cut loose his sleek BMW and hugged the far left lane. With determination he steamrolled the other drivers out of his way as he barreled down the highway at one hundred thirty miles an hour, cutting the drive time in half. At the city limits the speed reduced to forty, but his heavy foot barely eased back off the accelerator. He braked hard and the pebbles flew as the powerful car screeched to a halt in the side parking lot of the Hotel Wiesserhof. He jumped out and took the steps two at a time, then shoved open the front door so hard it crashed into the wall. Without a glance, he stormed the front desk and demanded Teddi’s room number. The stricken clerk told him Teddi had gone for a walk along the quay. “With who?” he bellowed into the poor girl’s blotchy face. “Alone sir, Frau Howard has always been alone.” Her lips quivered as she fought back tears. Jesus, he never meant to scare the poor thing. “It is her custom to 118

stroll along the Tergensee Lake in the early evening.” The car roared to life and he peeled out onto the street cutting off a vegetable delivery truck. David glanced in the mirror just as the driver flipped him off.

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Chapter Nineteen

Teddi stood on the pier and stared across the Tergensee. Sunset was a perfect time to be at the lake park, the heavens were alive with color. The orange sun haloed the billowing clouds, fingers of apricot and amethyst streaked across the darkening sky. Her solace came from the peace and quiet enveloping her as a mist drifted up from the water.

Soon the darkness would come.

She pulled her jacket closer, more for

reassurance than warmth, and thought she would die from wanting David. Whatever she had hoped to achieve by going to Bad Wiessee just hadn’t happened. David certainly wouldn’t be there. He’d had his fun and discarded her. The thought no longer brought on anger, just an unwavering sadness. She’d hoped to make travel arrangements for her group and even that was hopeless. The hotel was great with its medieval charm, but the town wasn’t a place for people to sightsee for more then a day. Maybe she could base her group there and bus them on day tours to the surrounding sites? The village kept with all the old traditions. Yesterday, a young farm couple was married in the centuries old church on the hill. Afterward, the bride and groom had led a procession back into town. Tubas and horns blared as the wedding party paraded. Cheering people had lined the sidewalks. The event made her cry. The lady next to her smiled, assuming her reaction was one of happiness. Sadly, it was self-pity. Engrossed in her own thoughts, she yelped when a hand touched her shoulder. Hope sprang to life even as she told herself the tall figure couldn’t possibly be the man 120

she loved. Her pulse raced and her voice came out in a whisper as she asked, “What do you want?” “A beautiful, free-spirited woman and to be more involved in her life.” “No good. There’s more to all this. I don’t have handsome men competing for me. It’s never happened before and I don’t believe it’s happening now. You and Claus are in some sort of a competition. I’m immaterial to this entire situation. This is something you two have done before without any concern for the woman.” Her rose grew louder as she sputtered out the words, “Does Ilsa come to mind?” “Neine, Liebschen, for me my answer is the truth. I cannot answer for Claus, nor would I presume to do so. You must ask him what his intentions were. But I prefer you did not encounter that person again. I am hurt you would accuse me of such duplicity.” He seemed sad, but she was filled with her own anger and ignored the disappointment in his voice. “This is just ridiculous. All I wanted was a few uncomplicated weeks to sort out my business, be happy again. And what happens? I find myself in the middle of a fiasco.” She spun on her heel, prepared to sprint off. She wasn’t a toy to be played with then tossed aside when he got bored. She couldn’t do this, face his rejection again. He reached for her hand. The deep timbre of his voice softened. “Meine Frau, you are upset. Let me take you home.” “Stop it. Stop calling me that. I am not ‘your woman’.” She needed this to end, get away from him. “I asked Heicke the significance of that little phrase you toss around more then your credit card.” A steely look shaded his eyes. “Oh, yes, Theodora, you most certainly are and will always be.” He scooped her into his arms and in four short steps unceremoniously dumped her into his car. She reached for the door handle to escape. No-nonsense eyes glared at her as he 121

flicked the handheld remote to lock. Trapped. A face carved in stone scowled at her, his mouth a mere slash. A lock clicked open and he slid into the car. “It is the law to wear your seatbelt,” he said coldly, turning the key in the ignition. She didn’t move, just glared out the front window. He shifted and reached across for her seatbelt. Warm breath caressed her cheek with his mouth just inches from hers. Refusing to look, she maintained her icy silence. His fingers brushed her breast as he jerked the strap across her body. Even through her coat she felt the electric shocks that jumped her nipples to attention as he snapped the belt’s tongue in place. “You have a great restraint,” she grumbled as she struggled to adjust the choking belt. “Not for long,” he growled. Glacial silence echoed through the car on the short drive to the hotel, but she made no attempt to thaw the permafrost. After he parked, he stepped around the car and unlocked her door using the remote. He leaned over the barely opened door and said, “You can walk in like a lady or I can sling you over my shoulder. Which do you prefer?” She was determined not to let this barbarian strong-arm her and gracefully dropped her foot to the gravel. Her head held high, she regally exited the car, and walked into the lobby requesting her key.

Out of perversity she chose the stairs.

Ramrod straight, she ascended the three flights. At her room he took the key from her hand, unlocked the door, then politely held it open. With lady like aplomb she entered the dimly lit room and hung her chartreuse jacket on a hook. She crossed the room, controlling her hip action. With a great show she straightened her skirt then sat in the wing-backed chair. He didn’t sit, just stood there, arms folded over his chest that seemed to have grown broader and his legs spread shoulder wide. His steely eyes bored into her as if commanding her to speak.

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“I have nothing to say to you.”

She couldn’t stop herself, the silence was

maddening with that great hulk glaring at her as if she were a naughty child. “You certainly did at the lake. Explain.” “I refuse to discuss anything while you’re in that overbearing position.” “It is better I stand. My anger is then controlled.” “Your anger. Who the hell…?” She was abruptly lifted from the chair in a vicelike grip. “The restraint is gone, Liebschen.” The ragged words hung in the air as he crushed her lips beneath his own. His mouth molded to hers, overwhelming her senses.

She trembled with

anticipation and felt no guilt by being with him. Even if there was nothing after tonight, for there was no guarantee he returned her feelings, this was exactly where she wanted to be. David Stiefel in her life was what she wanted more then anything, for as long as he would stay. All she could do was show her love, then maybe he would open up. She stroked his tousled hair, the rich texture sending shivers up her arms then pulled his head closer, plunging her hands through the black curls.

Her nipples

hardened as his warm breath swept against her bodice. She shifted her legs in the hope it would ease the tingling at the mouth of her vagina. She loved him and wanted to satisfy him, but before she could act his hands took control. **** He slid his hands around to her back and barely heard the sound of her zipper through the passion roaring in his ears. The purple dress slithered down her arms and pooled onto the floor. She laid her hands on his hips, to steady herself, as she stepped out of the garment. He moved closer, his hands traveled up her slender back and released the hooks of her lavender bra. Slowly he skimmed the straps down her arms and dropped it at their feet. His eyes studied every inch of her as he stripped her bare. 123

Her beautiful full breasts bobbed as she inhaled. It took all his strength not to flip her to the floor and fuck her senseless. A little voice reminded him that he loved her. She needed to feel cherished, he would take his time and pleasure her many times over. With the slightest movement, she leaned into him. He raised his palms to her nipples and gently rubbed the tips. Looking at her face was like looking at an angel. She was beautiful with her eye lids half closed and the little smile tweaking her lips. Lips too good not to kiss. He stroked his tongue across her mouth. The sweet taste of honey lingered on his tongue. And he wanted more. Wrapping his arms around her tight, her bare breasts pressed against his chest, he parted her lips and delved into her mouth. First he swiped the roof, then sucked her tongue back into his. She pressed her pussy into the cradle of his hips and his cock sprang to life. It seemed to be beating at his fly, demanding to feel the heat of her wet slit. David dropped to his knees, his hands on her waist. A silky lavender half-slip held him at bay from the erotic pleasures he craved. Hooking his thumbs under the elastic, the barrier came away easily, sliding from her hips. He kissed all of her bare skin his lips could reach. His only obstacle left was her purple thong. He hooked his thumb inside the lace at her waist, his nail grazing her skin as it slid along the elastic to her ass. His other hand caressed the back of her thigh as it traveled up to her rear. With one hand he pulled the back strap away, while his other hand stroked against her cleft, separating her cheeks. She shivered and he smiled, knowing the best was yet to come. Her musky aroma filled his lungs, driving him closer to the edge. He kissed her pussy, laving through the wet material as he continued running his index finger inside her cleft. She shuddered and moaned when he massaged her sphincter in slow, tight, circles. Moving slowly, to prolong her pleasure and to torture himself, he inched the thong off her firm hips, always making contact with her flesh. His hands gripped her hard, holding her in place, as his tongue lapped and swirled in her navel. Then he

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trailed lower, licking at the juices running down the inside of her thigh, loving the taste of her hot come. She dug her nails into his shoulders until the pain was so intense he was sure he would bleed. “Theodora, please, relax your hands.” All he got in response was a muted sigh. After removing her black high-heeled shoes, he peeled away the thigh-high stockings from her shapely legs, already imagining how they would feel wrapped around him. He traced his fingers along her soft flesh, replacing each imprint with butterfly kisses while he coaxed her down to the soft carpet. He pulled two pillows from the settee and placed one beneath her head. The other he left at his side. She glanced at it and he smiled. “Not to worry. It’s for your pleasure.” She frowned, her brow furrowing. “I won’t hurt you, Theodora. I want to make love to you.” She seemed to relax for her arms reached up and circled his neck. He took it as a good sign and spread her legs to show her his love. Kneeling between her thighs, he spread her swollen pussy lips, brushing aside the short hairs. He stared into her glazed eyes, smiled, and dipped his index finger into his mouth. She wiggled her hips and he knew she was ready. He dabbed the little pearl and she moaned. Slowly he leaned forward and kissed her pussy then slid his tongue over her clit. She gasped, the most beautiful sound he had ever heard. He slid his index finger into her sopping channel, sliding back and forth, until her eyes flew open and she gasped. When his finger slid out, he then plunged both the index and middle finger in deep, massaging until he found the spot to make her come. Her body convulsed and she screamed out his name. His cock was painfully swollen and dripping with come. He had to enter her, but he also had to keep control. The only way he could contain himself was to tease her body while he forced his own to relax. After a few moments he was able to manage fucking her without coming

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immediately. He reared back and grabbed the pillow at his side. In one swift motion he scooped up her ass and slid the cushion beneath her. “What are you doing?” She looked puzzled, but not frightened. “You have never done this?” She nibbled on her bottom lip and shook her head. “Theodora, it is for your pleasure. Making love will be more satisfying for you,” he said, stroking the inside of her thigh. She spread her legs further apart and held out her arms. He wrapped them around his hips and mounted her, sliding in slowly. The intense fulfillment was unreal. She was so wet, so hot. He could not get enough. With each stroke her breathing quickened until it came out in heavy pants and she came over and over. But for him it wasn’t enough. His woman must be totally satisfied. Each time she came it excited him all the more. Soon he would satisfy his potent need, but for now he’d force himself to stay in control. Bracing himself on his forearms, muscles bulging, he continued the movements, plunging faster and deeper with each thrust, until all control was gone and they came together.

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Chapter Twenty

Teddi looked out at the morning sky. The cold gray clouds promised another day of rain, but her heart sang with the joy of having been with David. He was all she had thought a man should be when he made love to a woman. Damn straight, those romance novels knew what they were talking about. She only had to come to terms with her feelings for him. She knew she loved him, but was it enough to give up everything? No. She was selfish that way. She wanted it all, David, a home, her sister, the business, and with any luck, a child. She’d love to produce a healthy baby for him. He’d be a good father with much to give, if he’d let himself. How can a man hold back so much and not want to explode? He wasn’t a man who chattered or flattered. No, he was direct, honest, and not afraid of life. Where had he been all her’s? Now that he’d spoiled her for any other man, where would he be the rest of her life? “Today I will show you my city,” David spoke lazily as he pulled open the window. The chilly breeze forced her to snuggle deeper under the covers. “Believe me, I’ve seen every nook and cranny of Bad Wiessee,” Teddi stretched luxuriously in the warm bed. The bedspread slid off, exposing her breast, but she didn’t bother to pull it up. She liked the naughty feeling it gave her, lying there with her nipple out for him, hoping he’d reach for her. “But not with this man.” A sly smile spread across his stubbled face. He dipped his index finger into his mouth, and, in two quick strides, reached her side of the bed

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where he laid the wet pad onto her nipple. With a wink he lifted the telephone receiver. She lay back, watching him in all his remarkable nakedness, issue orders to room service and grinned at his unabashed manner. He had no sense of embarrassment while he paraded around the room nude. Seeing his toned body unclothed brought back all the pleasures of the previous night. A familiar heat coiled in her abdomen and crept down to her vagina. She twined her arms around his neck and pulled his head down to her hungry mouth. She loved him and needed to have more of him. Maybe she could extend her trip. No, it wasn’t possible. She had to leave before all this got out of hand. She would never be more then a brief affair for him. If she was careful, she could still put her life in order while holding dear the many wonderful memories. There was no other option. Stepping into the warm shower water, she considered her dilemma. She was in love with a delicious, exciting man who had brought her fantasies to life. She only wished he had the same feelings toward her. Not wanting to alter the euphoric glow, she forced her thought to the new day. It was her last day. The air became cold.

Shivering, she reached for the faucet to increase the

temperature. A shadow appeared in the mist. “What’s in your hand?” she asked, smiling up at him. “It is time for our bath,” he whispered as he brought a bar of soap to her nose. The sweet fragrance of honey filled the hot room. “Hmm, nice. May I?” She held out her hand. A smile tugged at her lips, her eyes never left his face. With her right arm she pressed her breasts together, rocking them with every movement as she deliberately rubbed the soap in slow swirls over her shoulder then down her arm. Changing hands, she lathered the other arm to her shoulder, allowing her thumb to glide across her breast. Her soapy hand caressed her throat before it glided over her breast where her fingertips, one-by-one, grazed across the taut nipple. She massaged her tummy and smiled as the foam trickled through her wet triangle and down her thighs. David watched, his hungry eyes intent on her every move, his breathing ragged.

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She tilted back for the water to wet her hair. Reaching up, she arched, thrusting out her breasts, and shampooed her scalp. The water streamed down her face and throat, becoming rivulets as it flowed between her swollen breasts, only inches from his lips, and down to her navel. His cock was thick with need as he stared, her taut nipples rising in greeting. He didn’t move to touch her, fixated on watching her bathe. She heard his raspy breath over the gushing water. “You look as if you feel ignored,” she pouted, waving the soap under the spray. The game was thrilling, beyond her most erotic fantasies. Stepping forward, she raised the bar to his broad shoulder. Standing on tip-toes, she swirled the soap into a foamy lather that she caressed through his damp matted chest hairs. Playfully she flicked her thumb over his nipple. The scent of his arousal filled her lungs. A flame of desire licked at her, starting in her breast then searing deep into her vagina. She wanted nothing less than her man inside her. He looked as if he had to touch her, needed to touch her. A rapid pulse throbbed in the hollow of his throat. His stiff cock, with a drop of pre-come seeping from the tip, stood at attention as his hand reached for her. Sensing his movement, she smoothly evaded his touch. Carefully, she stepped behind him and kneaded his back. Her soapy hands slid lower and massaged his compact ass, toying with his cleft. Her fingers teased across his skin onto his stomach, seeking his cock. Feral growls soared from his throat as her soapy hand massaged up and down his dick, rubbing the foreskin over its engorged head, moving faster, gripping tighter, with every stroke. “Meine Frau, do we both not get to play?” he gasped through clenched jaws. She knew his self-control was only one delightful stroke from exploding. Triumphant as a butterfly emerging from a cocoon, Teddi spread her arms and David swept her up against his body. She laced her ankles across his back then wiggled just so to press the tip of his wet cock on her vagina. With one swift motion he impaled

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her, stretching, filling her. Her vaginal muscles clamped around his cock, loving the feel of him inside her. Every thrust created a longing, an ache she had to relieve. Pumping harder, faster, until the pleasure was so intense, she thought her body would shatter if she didn’t come. The cold tile of the shower wall brought her back to the present, but only for a moment, as his thrusts went deeper, more rapid. Her sweat was mixed with the mist of the shower and both were cold against her hot skin. Squeezing her eyes shut tight, she dug her fingertips into his shoulders and rode him with a fervor she had never known. With a roar he came, filling her with such joy, she screamed his name as her orgasm rocketed her into another galaxy. **** Later that day, they strolled through the village with his arm around her waist. The warm sun played across her shoulders. If felt so good to be close to someone again, Teddi thought. Sharing and caring was her order of the day. David pulled bits of bread from his pocket and threw them to the waiting ducks as they strolled along the lake. His sober expression made her uneasy. Something was troubling him and she suspected this was a prelude to the big letdown. “Do you like all birds or just the timid ones?” she asked squelching her anxiety. Taking a few crumbs from his hand, she flung them onto the shore. “I like all creatures free and wild. Taming is not in my nature.” He dusted the residue from his hands and cleared his throat. “Yesterday you mentioned Ilsa. I think I owe you an explanation. Please, do not interrupt until I am finished. Like anything unpleasant, I want to get this done quickly.” He clasped her fingers in his oversized hands. Her stomach muscles clenched. From the look on his face, she knew he was going to drop her. His body was rigid, like a recalcitrant schoolboy reciting a dreaded homework assignment before his classmates. “We met as children. Ilsa was a frail young girl who needed reassurance and

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tranquility. She was beautiful, in a fading manner. It was assumed one day we would marry, therefore she became my fiancée. She was my first love, my only love. Our romance flourished, or so I thought. Wedding plans commenced with great fervor. Our mothers were very insistent on that.” The taut muscles softened as he spoke. His eyes stared off into space as his mind stepped into the past. How the hell could she have been so naïve, so stupid? She knew he wasn’t married but Christ, he must be engaged and she was the little pre-nuptial fuck. She raised her hand in protest but all she really wanted to do was run as far away as possible. Back home to her security. To all her bills and problems, which were a hellova lot better then being made aware of what an idiot she’d been. Heat crawled up her neck as she remembered all the things she’d done to him. All the things she’d allowed him to do to her. What she didn’t need was an accounting of the love of his life. “Claus returned home soon after we became engaged. One night in tears she broke our engagement and cancelled my future. Ilsa had fallen in love with Claus. They were to marry on our wedding date.” His face tensed. He sucked in a deep breath and admitted, “I was crushed by her decision and vowed I would never love again.” There, he’d said it. He would never love again. She died a little bit with each word and barely heard the rest over the roaring in her ears. “A year later I saw her again. She was miserable but there was nothing I could do. The next year she was diagnosed with cancer. The treatments were too much for her frail body and she died.” Pain streaked across his face. Somewhere during his story he had dropped her hand, his own balled into a fist at his side. Her heart was breaking. The emotion that played on his face summed it all up better than any words ever could. He loved Ilsa and was still in love with her. No woman would ever be allowed to penetrate the shrine he had built in his mind. “My dislike for Claus is not because he had stolen Ilsa from me. It is because when she had to receive her treatments he was never there. She drove herself to and

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from the hospital while he was off having affairs with anyone and everyone. A vulgar, self-absorbed man with the morals of an alley cat.” For a moment she thought he’d spit on the ground until she noticed he brushed something from his eye. They continued to walk. She was grateful for the movement, anything to distract her from this painful, one-sided conversation. She turned her head to watch a group of toddlers race across the lawn. Their laughter offered a moment’s diversion, but no comfort. “Claus’s reason for being absent was that her baldness and thinness repulsed him.” Disgust shaped his mouth into a snarl. “He could never abide illness. Even as a child, disease angered him. He is a person without compassion or honor. He walked away when she needed him most.” He didn’t look at her. The disgrace seemed to weigh heavily on his mind. Please, God, make him stop, she prayed. She bent down and snapped off a blossom from the flowerbed they were crossing. Her shaky hands brought it up to her nose on the pretext of sniffing its fragrance. In truth, it was to hide the tear sliding down her cheek. “I visited her several times. When I was able I attended to her, but only because she was an old friend and needed help.

She regretted the path she had chosen,

especially when a kind loving husband would have been so important. Ilsa died alone. Her mother found her a day later.”

His shoulders sagged with sorrow, yet he

continued, “Claus acted the hero at her funeral. He orchestrated the event as if he was hosting a gala party.” His earlier words, “I would never love again”, surfaced in her mind. That pretty well summed it up. No wonder at thirty-six he still wasn’t married. His soul belonged to a woman long dead. She wanted to comfort him, assure him there was more to life than living in your memories.

For years she had tried to keep her husband alive only to discover it

wouldn’t matter. He would still be dead. Life demanded a lot from people and pain was a major part of it. A person had to get past the ugly things in the world to see the

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beauty. Hopefully one day, with the right woman, he would discover that truth. “After Ilsa broke our engagement I dedicated my life to our family business. It consumed me night and day. I mastered every aspect of the shoe industry,” he said as he stared across the lake. It seemed as if he had to unburden himself, make her realize the truth that she could never be permanent in his life. Breaking into her thoughts, he continued, “I have shared time with women, beautiful socialites.

Not one had

substance. All were spoiled and selfish. Each would have been a perfect counterpart for Claus. Teddi plucked the petals from the faded mum, silently whispering, “He loves me —he loves me not.” The last petal told it all. She threw down the beheaded stem in defeat. “My cousin has been jealous of me since he was a child. He resented my parents for loving me and teaching me well. His mother loved him but she was a weak woman. His father was a petty and cruel man who virtually neglected Claus.” He shrugged his shoulders, clearly not understanding the ways of people. “Over the years, Claus has done little things to disrupt my life. I bought him the tour company as a peace offering. He is a sick man who needs help.” He stopped walking and looked at her. “Now he has gone one step too far. He tried to hurt you. I would never have allowed that. Your well-being is important to me. My friends were watching every minute to keep you safe.” Her head shot up, surprised by his words. She never suspected Claus would do anything to hurt her. She believed he only wanted to test her, determine if she was a willing player in his demented game. How could she have been so blind? “Heicke almost lost his mind when you stormed from the hotel. He emailed me immediately. I returned to Munich to be sure you were safe.” His eyes were filled with anxiety. “Earlier I said I would handle it, that I did not want the police involved. I was wrong. Claus’ problem is more serious then I realized. It is your decision, Theodora, if you wish to prosecute him. Maybe such an action would force him to get the therapy he needs. ”

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She shook her head no, aware of the humiliation such publicity would cause David. “Claus has made serious strides to ruin my company, but his unscrupulous plan has been stopped. It is in Wolfe’s hands so it will be handled discreetly.” “You didn’t have to tell all this. I appreciate you sharing the intimate details of your life,” she said in a feeble attempt to maintain some shred of dignity. What else could she say? There weren’t any words either of them could say that would soothe her pain. She knew where she stood, but it wasn’t in the position she’d hoped. Unaware of her change in attitude he continued, “I wanted you to know. It was important you understand why I do not indulge in useless prattle. Why, to you, I appear cold and private. It is for self-preservation.” “I never meant for you to chatter on like a fool. I only wanted to know you better. To understand David, the man.” And now she only wanted to escape. His words had made it painfully clear no one would ever warm his heart again. His bed, yes. But his heart would always belong to Ilsa. After all, it was self-preservation. “And that you will. Today you will learn all my dark secrets.” Smiling he hugged her close, dropping a brotherly kiss on her forehead. She winced at the action, her joy of the previous night and their morning shower was crushed.

Yet her pride demanded she continue as if nothing was out of the

ordinary. A European man was certainly different than an American one. To her knowledge an American guy would have beat a hasty retreat after he confessed she was nothing but the fuck of the day. David certainly felt no different. In fact he seemed happier now that he had explained his position. He’d probably been afraid she’d expected more than he wanted to give, like a serious relationship. She’d almost heard the snap when her heart broke in two. Forcing a smile, she pretended she was socially adept and her life was perfect, while inside she wept. ****

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David pointed out all his boyhood haunts and shared stories of his childhood antics. In the back of his mind he was not sure she understood what he had laboriously tried to explain. He was not indifferent to her. Nothing could be further from the truth. She had to understand that. Although her sudden change in attitude, from last night and this morning, indicated she did not or maybe he had failed her when they made love. He had known acute disappointment in the past. The loneliness and physical need to reach out for the warmth of another human being had led him into some disastrous affairs. Each had left him feeling emptier. But with her it was different. She was not just a good fuck. His time with her surpassed anything he had ever experienced. They had made love to each other, passionate and deeply moving love. Or so he thought. They finally walked into the empty town square where he forced himself to say lightheartedly, “This is where my village holds the Christkindlmarkt. It is a gift market held for twenty-four days, ending on the eve of Christmas. This square is filled with decorated open-air stalls, selling every imaginable item you could want. As a boy I anxiously waited for it to begin. Christmas, with all its mystery and tradition, has always been my favorite holiday. This season we will go, eat sausages, and drink mulled wine.” He gripped her hand tight as if it could link them together when his words had failed. “No, David.” “We will invite Lonnie to be with us here in Munich to cele—” “As much as you seem to enjoy directing my life, that won’t happen. I’ll be back in my little house in Chicago, sharing Christmas with my sister. Remember? I also have a business to run.” “I have an apartment in Munich. You will live there. You will have nothing to concern yourself with. I will arrange it all.” “I said no. My flight leaves tomorrow. I’ll be on that plane, enjoying Skye Vodka as I soar above this lovely city, to my home,” Teddi said, her feet planted on the 135

ground and her hands fisted on her hips. “I will return to my home.” David’s jaw clenched. He wanted her with him forever and especially on the one holiday of the year which held so many wonderful memories of his life. She was leaving tomorrow. Why? He was positive she had come to trust him, maybe even love him, or at least be willing to give it a try. How could she not after last night? A woman could not do and say the things she did without love. “You are the most irascible woman I have ever met,” he growled, jerking her off her feet. “Stop man-handling me,” she ordered. “You did not seem to mind it at all last night, Liebschen,” he shot back as he stuffed her into the car. Women. If this were medieval times he could legally beat her. Men. How could she have been so stupid as to fall in love with a stubborn jackass? Her face burned. So she was a conquest for him. He’d even had the audacity to throw it into her face. Last night had been so perfect, the raw pleasure more satisfying then she thought possible. She’d hoped he had a deeper feeling than lust. Obviously, that wasn’t the case. The city gave way to the flat countryside. The only sound on the long drive was the whap of the radial tires against the rain-slicked road as they sped upward through the Alps. She hated the isolation but would not give in. Self-preservation, dontcha know. She turned and glared out the window, trying to find comfort in the carnival of red and gold that swept the forest. After an hour, the late afternoon sun popped out washing the countryside with a golden brightness. It still didn’t lighten her mood. He swung the powerful car to a halt, spewing gravel across the sparse lawn, in front of an ivy-covered chalet nestled between ancient pines. “Where are we?” Even to her, her tone sounded like a spoiled child. “I want you to meet someone,” he snapped.

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Chapter Twenty-One

Teddi glanced up at the country house, impressed by the care it appeared to have received over the last two centuries. Even the leaded glass windows on the second floor gleamed in the fading sunlight. The front door creaked open and a petite aged lady dressed in black waved a welcome. Teddi watched, puzzled, as she stepped from the car. “Guten Tag, Frau.” Teddi smiled and wondered who she was. “Wie geht es Ihnen?” A dry chuckle passed from the creased lips, “Oh, my dear, thank you for asking. I am well.” Turning, she instructed, “David, you will teach her the proper accent.” Teddi grinned, her mood mellowing. The old lady returned her smile and her twinkling hazel eyes brightened her wrinkled face. She reached up and clasped Teddi’s hand, then pulled her closer for a welcoming kiss on the cheek. Surprised, Teddi returned the gesture. David made the introductions with his typical stiffness. “Mutti, please allow me to introduce Frau Theodora Howard.” With a curt nod to Teddi he said, “This is my mother, Frau Juliana Stiefel.” She couldn’t have been more surprised if he’d introduced the Queen of England. Given his feelings, why would he bring her home to meet his mother? If he cared for her, could he also love her and if so, why didn’t he tell her? Unless he preferred they

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just be friends. Frau Stiefel led the way into the comfortable parlor. “David has told me much about you, Theodora.” “Please, I prefer Teddi.” He’d told his mother about her? “So do I. David, stop using that stuffy name and address this girl by a name more befitting,” his mother admonished. “Ja, Mutti,” he answered like a chastised little boy. Oh this was good. The ever powerful and domineering David Stiefel put in his place by a woman who was not even five feet tall. It was definitely going to be a better afternoon. Wearing a satisfied grin, she glanced at him. “David, a little schnapps for our guest.” “Mutti, you know what the doctor said.” “Ja, and I outlived the old fool,” she said, snickering as she sat in a faded upholstered chair. “Don’t start with me; I see the look on your face. This was Papa’s and I will keep it. You can use it for firewood when I die.” Another firm reprimand. This was too good to be true. David quietly returned with a tray of drinks. When he handed the old lady a delicate glass, she peered inside, gave him a look that would stop a runaway semi and held up the glass. Without a word he poured in a liberal amount of the clear liquid. He turned and offered Teddi a small glass with his eyes still lowered. For a brief moment she felt compassion for him. Very brief. He raised his sparkling eyes and gave her a conspiratorial wink. Astounded, she choked on her first sip. As David and his mother discussed neighbors and politics, she glanced past the dust-free Hummels on the oak end table and settled on a grouping of photographs. The ornate silver and gold frames stood out like soldiers at reveille on the maple credenza. Gazing at what must have been his parents wedding picture, she noticed the strong resemblance of David to his handsome father. “Come, the supper is prepared and waiting on the terrace,” Frau Stiefel announced. 138

“Please, you shouldn't have gone to any trouble,” Teddi said. “No, it is no trouble. A girl comes in daily to care for me. David arranged that several years ago. He must think his mama is getting old.” She giggled like a schoolgirl. David rose from an overstuffed easy chair and offered his arm, which was shooed away. Instead, the matriarch reached for Teddi to steady herself. “I do not like to use my cane in the house. Too cumbersome,” she whispered. They passed through the hallway and Teddi looked into the formal dining room. Newly starched white lace hung over the leaded windows and not a dust bunny in sight. The day help was either extremely clean or Mutti was a dragon killer. A narrow flight of stairs led to what she assumed were the bedrooms. Two heavy doors at the back of the house were closed. Out on the patio the lanterns cast a soft glow onto the flagstone. David bent to light the half dozen votive candles scattered across the fine linen as Teddi pulled her chair up to the table set with crystal and china.

Frau Stiefel directed the friendly

conversation, telling stories of David’s childhood, much to his chagrin, with love and pride glowing on her face. Teddi felt at home eating family style as bowls of bib lettuce and boiled potatoes were passed around the table. The matriarch seemed determined to discover the honor and merit of the woman her son had brought home. Offering the braised rabbit in wine sauce, she began the inquisition. “David tells me you have a younger sister you raised. Tell me about her.” She smiled, but there was no mistake, she wanted information. “Her name is Lonnie, she’s twenty-four, and a psychologist for the criminally insane. It’s not the career I would have chosen for my baby sister. She works in a maximum security prison counseling inmates.” Teddi’s hands trembled as she passed the meat platter. “Frau, this really isn’t very good dinner conversation. Perhaps we could discuss a different topic? You have a beautiful gar—” “Nonsense, my dear. I would like to hear of your Lonnie.” Her eyes were bright with interest. “She doesn’t tell me much about her work, client confidentiality and all that, but 139

the little she has told me is gruesome.” She shivered, forcing herself to continue, “The case that’s very involved is an abused woman, who murdered her husband, which I believe was justified.” David’s head jerked up, a hard look on his face. “I really think we should have a lighter conversation,” she said, afraid the other woman would be shocked. “No, I’m interested in the ways of this world gone mad,” she replied, her mouth set in a firm line. “Please, continue.” “Lonnie loves her work and is confident the convicts have come to trust her. They confide shocking details and appear to have faith in her abilities.” David laid his utensils across his plate, his face filled with concern. “One case in particular has sparked her interest. She’s certain the man didn’t commit the murder he was convicted of. Now she’s determined to prove her theory.” Her voice cracked and she cleared her throat to cover it. Frau Stiefel reached out her hand. Just as suddenly as she offered it, she drew it back and dipped her head. But not fast enough to hide the pity on her face. “Her mind is always on her work. She never takes time to have fun. The cases affect her deeply and I worry about her own mental health.” Teddi pushed her plate away, her appetite gone. “She’s continuing her education, as her ultimate goal is to be a criminal profiler. She’s forged ahead and succeeded under many obstacles.” A concerned look passed between David and his mother. He reached for Teddi’s hand, as if to reassure her, but she smoothly avoided his touch, reaching into her wallet. “She’s the light of my life. This is her picture.” Frau Stiefel nodded approval as she stared at the pretty brown-eyed girl laughing in the photo. To avoid further conversation, Teddi stood and gathered plates into her hands. “David, will you bring in the food while I start washing up?” If it worked for the Frau, it might work for her. He stood and stacked the bowls onto his long arms. Excuse me, Mutti,” he said 140

as if waitering were his normal practice. His mother daintily lifted the linen napkin to her mouth and dabbed at the smile that wouldn’t be wiped away. Eyes straight ahead, Teddi marched back across the garden. The kitchen was a cook’s dream, she thought, glancing around the large spotless room with all the modern conveniences. Dried herbs hung across the beamed ceiling, filling the blue and white room with a mix of pungent aromas. She set the plates in the sink and was scraping the reside into the disposal when he brought in the remaining food. “She loves you very much,” she said, not looking up from her task. “She is a good mother, always there to help me, willing to forgive my long absences.” He knew he had the best of all worlds, no demands at home and a satisfying career. If Teddi would say she loved him, his life would be ideal. “It’s obvious you have a great deal of respect for your mom.” “I believe a man should honor his women.” Their eyes met and he placed a swift kiss on her elegant nose. “You, too, are proud of your sister. Her career is of great concern to you.” Such a job for a young woman, he thought. He was not so sure he would be as objective. He could not help but notice how tense and strained she had become when she discussed her sister’s work. He felt someone should talk to the girl and explain it was a man’s job to work with such danger. It took every effort not to voice his opinion. “Does she not have guards in the room when she is treating a patient?” She carefully considered her answer while transferring the leftovers into storage containers. She seemed to have had an abnormal fear of losing her only relative, an irrational fear buried deep and never brought to light, let alone discussed. She recited her answer just as she would explain, for the umpteenth time, airport protocol to a client. “The guards accompany the prisoner to her office then shackle them to a chair or a steel bar which is bolted into the wall.” Swallowing hard, she continued, “Lonnie insists they aren’t cuffed so they can interact like human beings, not

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animals. The guard must stand outside her office as the sessions are privileged. So she and some murderer are alone in the room.” She spun around. “What’s to stop some madman from flinging a chair into her face or killing her?” She backed away, her hand clamped over her mouth. He was stunned by the passionate words. In an instant he knew he was right. She was so obsessed with protecting her sister she could not allow herself to enjoy today. She could only worry about the bad things that might happen tomorrow. He reached out to comfort her. There was her earlier comment that still bothered him. “The abused woman, you were so adamant when describing her situation.” Not sure how to proceed, only knowing it was critical, he plunged ahead, “Did Matthew ever strike you?” “No, never. It’s because I’ve always had kindness and understanding, not to mention indulgence, that I feel a great empathy for the women who haven’t had those luxuries.” She turned back to him, her eyelashes shiny. “Lonnie has shown me photos of what some abused women have endured. It’s sickening to realize how people can hurt each other so cruelly.” “No one will ever hurt you,” he vowed as he held her close. Her sorrow tore at him. He wanted to bring back the vivacious woman he loved and longed to protect from the demon causing such pain. **** They made their good-byes with warm hugs and kisses. Teddi liked his gracious mother and felt she had been accepted. The regard was evident in Frau Stiefel’s parting words. “Auf Wiedersehen, Teddi. When you return, please bring that charming girl with you. I would like to meet such a courageous woman.” But she would never return. Today was her last day in Germany. The fact David would be in Munich, probably with a new woman, made it impossible for her to

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consider a future visit. The pain would be more than she could endure. The day had passed much too fast. The drive to the hotel flew by as melancholy swept over her like the Mississippi floods. All the arrangements were in place, she had to leave in the morning and get back to work. There was no other option and all she wanted to do was cry. “You are so quiet. Did you not enjoy supper?” David asked, his face lined with concern. She had recognized his mother was a strong woman and very protective of him. Did he think she had insulted the old dear? The entire situation was just too damned stressful. “It was a lovely evening. Your mom is a gracious lady, full of life and joy. I enjoyed meeting her. Thank you for taking me.” “Tell me what is wrong, Theodora. Let me help you,” he asked, reaching for her hand. If he wants to help, why doesn’t he say he loves me, don’t leave, or anything else that jumps into his head? “I must be a little tired, jet—” “Lag, I know. It is your answer to hide the truth,” he chided. “I shall overlook it this time, but no more excuses. In the future you will tell me when and why you are not happy.” A warm smile spread across his face. “Now, Liebschen, it is time we go home.” Home. Her heart fluttered at the word. It was a place she hadn’t been to in a very long time. In the dimly lit hotel lobby, he took their room key from a scarred peg. Holding hands, they walked to the elevator. She wanted him desperately and shivered at the thought of his hands, stroking, exploring. She wanted to feel like a woman one more time before the magic ended.

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Chapter Twenty-Two

It was their last night together. He’d never made a serious intention known to her. For all she knew, and he had justly indicated it, she was to stay on in Munich and be nothing more then his mistress. What an inconsiderate, egotistical bastard. She hadn’t hung out her whore shingle just yet. Teddi Howard was her own mistress and if this hulk thought she would belittle herself to be nothing more then a dropping off point for his sperm, he had better rethink it. But she loved him and wanted to be with him. Maybe she should show him just how much because she certainly couldn’t say the words if he hadn’t. Maybe he didn’t love her. Maybe it was all just a fling for him. You meet a lonely woman on a business trip and show her a good time. Fuck her a few times so she thinks that she has some sex appeal left in her before you throw her back out to the wolves. Nice guy, this David Stiefel she’d fallen in love with. She had a world, a business, and people back home who depended on her. Her business trip had taken on a vacation air and David was just a tasty bit of the fun. Since this was the last night of the greatest sex she’d probably ever have in her life, she was determined to give it her all. She’d do all those things that she’d always wanted to do but Matthew was too inhibited to try. If their time together was all based on sex then there was no reason she couldn’t have things her way for once. Her heart wouldn’t allow her to believe she was just a good fuck to him. She smiled as an idea took shape. There also wasn’t a rule that said 144

she couldn’t show him just how good little Mrs. no-longer-innocent Teddi Howard could fuck. “David, you look tired.” And about to be a lot more tired. “I am fine. What would you like to do tonight?” He rubbed his shoulder. “Aches?” But not as bad as something else is going to ache. “A bit. Must be from driving the mountains.” He rolled his shoulder and winced. “Sit down here, on the sofa.” She patted the seat, inviting him over. “Let me massage it for you.” He settled his body onto the paisley cushions, shifting his shoulders as if to work out the pain. “Take your shirt off or you might get friction burns from the knit.” She walked from the room and after a few moments returned with an uncapped bottle of musky oil in her hands. “Let me turn off this bright light so it won’t hurt your eyes.” It was just like a play and she was the star. The best part was she got to write the script as well as act out the scene. Actually, it excited her to have this control over the man who played havoc with her emotions. She sniffed the oil and couldn’t stop the wicked grin pushing at her lips. After a little shiver, she poured a healthy amount onto her palm. “Now you be sure to tell me if this becomes uncomfortable.” Her voice was so husky it surprised her. She warmed the thick oil by rubbing her palms together and pulled a small grin as a sucking sound filled the room. It reminded her of the other night, when he was inside her and riding so hard her dripping vagina made those same delicious love sounds. She’d been embarrassed then, but not now. Now she was ready to make love, have sex, or just plain fuck. It was her choice and she’d made her decision. With the slightest pressure she touched his shoulders. The feel of his skin and the scent of the oil teased her thoughts and she became playful. Using stronger, deeper

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strokes her hand dipped low across his pecs and squeezed tighter, her vagina clenching in memory of the first time his cock thrust inside her pussy. Her other hand glided over his shoulder and then rested it in his chest hairs, just above his left nipple. The coarse hairs tickled the tips of her fingers. While her one hand massaged deep into his sore shoulder, the other passed over his nipple, as if by accident, and she couldn’t stop thinking about what she had planned for the bedroom. “I think you’d be more comfortable stretched out.” “No, this is good.” “Really, you’d be more comfortable and I’d have the right leverage to massage all of your muscles.” That was all he needed, her massaging deeper, harder. Christ, he was so hard now his cock was dripping. If he got off the couch he’d probably spew come all over the front of himself. What he really wanted to do was turn around, strip her naked, and wrap his lips around her nipple. Make her scream while her hot come gushed over his cock. Make her say she’d stay and never leave him. Dammit he loved her. Why did she have to be so independent? He followed her into the bedroom. The dim lamp from the living room was the only light and it took his eyes a moment to adjust to the dark. He glanced at the bed as he felt his way and was shocked to see two pieces of cloth hanging off the headboard. “Lay on your stomach,” she ordered. He spread out on top of the duvet and rested his chin on his hands. She sat on the bed next to him and reached for his left shoulder. It must have been too far to stretch because he felt her back away and the mattress give when she scooted higher up on the bed. She resumed her first position with her body resting across his. “Comfortable?” “Mmmhmm.” Damn, she felt good. She worked his muscles with her talented fingers, kneading and prodding, and all the while his cock was getting harder and harder. What seemed like hours must

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have been just a few minutes. “Roll over.” He could not do it. His cock was at full attention and throbbing. He was almost positive his pants were wet where he had felt the pre-come oozing out of the tip of his head. “Roll over, David. I want to massage the front of you.” God in heaven! He could only hope. With minimal effort he flipped over and prayed there was no telltale evidence. She climbed off the bed and shimmied out of her dress. She stood before him in a sexy black thong and a little bra showing off the tops of her nipples. He had to look away or he would shoot his come right then. Good God in Heaven. She had on her comefuck-me shoes. It was the ultimate torture and one he was beginning to enjoy. She took his right wrist, lifted it above his head, and lashed it with a silk scarf. She then did the same thing with the left arm. He was a little nervous because he had never been into kinky sex and was not quite sure how far she would go, but he was so hot he needed to go along with her game. Besides, he had to trust her and since she was just a slip of a thing, he was positive she could not ball gag him. Even if she tried, he could overpower her, then he would be the one in control. He was anxious to see just see how far his virginal widow would go. She knelt at his side and lowered her bra straps. She stopped for a moment, as if deciding what to do next, then lifted one thigh-high nylon leg and straddled him. Her scent flowed out to him and he knew she was wet. Damn, he wanted to lick her, taste her sweet heat. She knelt straighter, her back almost arched, and reached behind her back unhooking her bra. As if in slow motion she slid the straps down her arms and the scrap of black fell onto his hips. He choked on his own saliva as he blurted, “What do you want me to do?” “Suck my nipple.” He tugged at the silk binding him and realized the weak knots would give way if he were not careful. And he certainly did not want to spoil what was proving to be a

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hell of a lot of fun. With a little more pulling, he discovered the scarves were long enough he could prop himself on his elbows to reach her. She laid her warm palms on his chest and pressed him back to the bed before she leaned forward, her breasts mere inches from his mouth. “Theodora, untie me. I want to touch you.” His voice was thick with need and he wanted to eat her more than he wanted to breathe. “You can’t. This is my fantasy and you just have to lay there and enjoy.” Her head was swimming with things she wanted to do, excited further by the musky smell of him. More then anything, she wanted to lower herself over that beautiful swollen purple cock and ride him until the sun came up. She lowered her head and licked his balls, sucking one into her mouth. Then she teased her tongue up his shaft to the engorged head, delighting in his salty taste. She took him in her wet mouth, clamping her lips tight, and moved her head up and down, sucking, loving every moment. When he cursed, she pulled the thong aside and raised up long enough for him to catch a whiff of her pussy. His nostrils flared and he tugged harder at the scarves. Her laughter came out in a series of crystal tinkles because she was sure he couldn’t get loose, although he could have if he tried just a little harder. She positioned her dripping vagina over his cock and lowered herself until she had swallowed him to the hilt. Then she slid her hands down his chest, grabbed his hips, raised herself, and came down again with a little sideways motion rubbing her clit against his pubic hairs. The sensation was all she’d hoped for. Silver and gold lights went off behind her eyelids. She did it once more only this time he bucked against her. Somehow he’d come free and held her hips in his hands, thrusting into her again and again. The force took her over the edge into an orgasm that drenched him in her hot come. ****

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The dawn light crept through a gap in the drapes as a cuckoo began its morning song. Teddi awoke, reveling in the warmth of the night before and their intense love making. But the time had finally come for her to leave. She couldn’t expect more than he was willing to give. His life was so different from hers, as well as his needs. He discussed business without a hitch but never allowed himself to speak his feelings. Love just wasn’t a word in his vocabulary. Broken hearted, she slid from the cradle of his arms. After her shower she watched him sleep. Hot tears filled her eyes. The pain of leaving was too great, too intense. If there were even a glimmer of hope he loved her, she’d find a way to stay. But it was clear he would never be able to love another woman and she could never live as a man’s mistress. She needed a man who loved her, with all her faults and phobias. She wanted a man she could build a future with. She needed to touch him one last time. She reached out and caressed his cheek. When he brushed her hand away, she knew it was symbolic, it was over, and time to go.

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Chapter Twenty-Three

“Heicke, she has gone. Left me. Returned to Chicago,” David said to his friend when they met in the Platzl bar three days later. He dropped onto the chair like a beaten man. His clothes were wrinkled as if he had slept in them, repeatedly.

His razor had become a stranger, days of growth

speckled his gray-skinned chin. There was not enough Visine in all of Munich to erase the redness from his eyes. Heicke had never seen him so un-David. There was no other description that could apply A waitress stopped at their table, but Heicke waved her off. David looked like he’d had enough liquor. He made an educated guess as to David’s problem and knew aggressive measures had to be taken to educate his thickheaded friend. “Did you tell her you love her?” There was nothing like getting right to the point. “Nein, not in so many words.” Shoulders hunched, David hung his head and studied his boots. Heicke almost felt sorry for the idiot. “She knows. She has to know. How could she not know?” “How does she know?” Thank God the bar was empty. This was going to be a lot harder then he thought. “Did you ask her to stay?” “I rushed back to be with her. Spent time. Talked. I finally opened up like she wanted, told her of my life, Ilsa. She knows.” Frustration streaked across his face as if 150

he could not understand why Heicke was not able to grasp the obvious. “I took her home to my Mutti. For God’s sake I sang to her. None of it mattered. How could I ask her to stay when she would not say she loves me?” “You pathetic fool. She would not assume you love her and certainly would not admit it without your commitment first. She was devastated by her husband’s death. Her emotions are fragile. Even I can see she has erected a wall to protect herself. She could not open herself up to the pain of rejection if you did not return her feelings.” Amazed at such stupidity, his hand crashed onto the table making it quake on its thin legs. “You are so asinine when it comes to women.” “When did you become so knowledgeable?”

David’s voice was laden with

sarcasm. “I have a higher intelligence than you. But I was right about you, David. You are a fool.” Why the hell did he bother coming here? David had no clue as to why she had left and he would never believe Heicke. He shook his head and decided a more practical approach was necessary. “Let me try it this way. How do you operate your company?” “That is ridiculous. One has nothing to do with the other.” “Just tell me. How do you do it? How do you share information with your people? How do you let them know they are doing a good job? That you care?” He spoke like a parent pacifying a toddler who had just dropped the top off his ice cream cone. “Do not placate me.” David shot him a nasty look. “To answer your pointless question, I send them memos on a need to know basis.” “Memos—on a need to know basis—wonderful.” Ach du lieber, such a dumpfkopf. He could not decide if he wanted to smack himself or David. “Do you ever talk to anyone, other then Wolfe, Rhineholdt, or me? Tell them face-to-face what is in that addled, nonfunctional brain of yours? Are you conversationally challenged? Do you ever tell anyone they have done a good job? That they are important to you? Or do you think paychecks and Christmas bonuses make them aware of what you are thinking? 151

Or, oh my God, feeling?” He wondered if he could have Teddi now that David had blown his chance. More then once he had fantasized about what he would willingly do to put the smile back on her face. Now that she was free…. No, he shook his head, their bond went beyond friendship. They were like brothers and you just could not do things like that to your brother. “They just know. My appreciation is shown through my actions, not words.” “Tell me what actions you use.” He could just imagine the stiff pat on the back or brisk nod. “If Anne Marie is doing a fine job or stays late I….” By the blank look on his face it was clear nothing had come to mind. Apparently he had never shown his devoted secretary a hint of gratitude. “Yes? Let us try this—what do you do physically?” He gathered his papers and tapped them into a neat stack, anything at this point to occupy his hands because they would rather be around David’s throat. “If it is a man, I…well, if it is a woman, I…I do not do anything. I have no actions,” David answered, guilt tattooed across his face. “Are you starting to get the idea? No words, no actions. Those are the signs of a pretty cold man. How the hell was Teddi supposed to know how you felt?” He raised his hands in a “get the picture” gesture. “I told you, she should have known. With her I had actions.” Angered squared his shoulders. “Plenty of actions.” “When the hell did you become so German? You have to explicitly tell people how you feel. Especially reveal your feelings to a woman. Especially when you love her. She would never assume something like that. She will dream of it, crave it, but never will she assume it.” Must be something they are born with.” He stood, braced himself against the table, and glared at the damned fool sitting in front of him. Sarcastically he continued, “You could try calling her. Maybe she will listen to you, highly unlikely. Do not mince your words. Remember, you must be explicit and

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sincere. A little groveling may help win her over. Flowers are a nice addition. Be sure to enclose a card you have written. Again, be explicit.” Praying he had made his point he resettled on his chair. “So, what do you propose to do about this mess you’ve gotten yourself into? And by the way, you look like hell. At least comb your hair.” David’s head jerked up, his eyes bright. “Wiedersehen, my wonderful friend. Again you have delivered the solution.” He ran out of the bar and crashed into a waiter laden with a tray of clean glasses, the sound of smashing crystal overpowered by his whoops.

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Chapter Twenty-Four

Teddi hadn’t seen or spoken to anyone since she returned home the previous week. The persistent ringing of the telephone had gone unanswered, but the emphatic banging on the front door was impossible to ignore. “I know you’re in there. Open this damn door or I’ll kick it down,” Lonnie yelled as a loud thud echoed through the entryway. Grumbling, Teddi unlocked the double bolts. Without a word she turned and shuffled into the sunroom. She heard a gasp and caught a glimpse of herself in the hall mirror. No pageant tiara coming her way with her limp hair uncombed or her once creamy skin the color of chalk. And she just didn’t care. The house wasn’t going to win a House Beautiful award either, Teddi thought as she glanced around at the unopened mail and old newspapers spilling off the couches. Coffee cups littered the sink and counter and there wasn’t a shred of evidence that any food had been prepared let alone eaten. Lonnie opened the fridge and gagged at the stench of whatever had had the audacity to die in there. “Okay, sis, spill your guts. What happened to cause this dramatic change in my ‘Mrs. Clean’ sister?” she asked, waving an arm around the room. There was major trouble coming. Teddi could read it in her scrunched up face. “Can I get you something?” Lonnie was definitely struggling to maintain her composure as she paced around the kitchen. “When was the last time you ate?” Teddi continued to pace, hugging herself, while her slippers scuffed across the 154

floor. The thought of food made her stomach roil. “Let’s sit down in the sun,” Lonnie insisted as she pulled hard on the drapery cord. Obviously desperate to break through the barrier Teddi had successfully built, she took a stab at comedy, “Or maybe a swift kick in the ass for whatever stupid thing you did on this trip?” Teddi shot her an indignant glare. “Don’t talk to me that way.” She wasn’t in a joking mood and no feeble attempt at humor was going to help. She heard a loud pop in the armor she’d meticulously forged, rivet by rivet, to shield Lonnie from the pain of Matthew’s death, the agency problems, and her own phobias. Her barrier was cracking. If she wasn’t careful, Lonnie would see inside to the fears she struggled to hide. “It’s just jet lag or maybe a touch of the flu.” She remembered the first time she’d said that line and had to force her lips to stop trembling. “Give me some time and everything will be fine.” She knew her sister wouldn’t believe a word of her phony story but she had to try. “I swear I’ll call you in a couple of days. Just let me be for awhile.” With a cluck of her tongue and a look that screamed “liar”, Lonnie rose to leave. She walked her sister out before securing the locks once again, all the while praying Lonnie was convinced and would leave her alone to flounder in her misery. Exhausted, she sank into her favorite chair, tormented once again by thoughts of the man she left in Germany. The love she almost had. She stared out the window at her mess of a yard. Realizing Chicago was noted for short autumns and the last days of fall were flying away, she looked closer at her prized garden. The trees had dropped all their colorful leaves and the browned flowers were bent over from the weight of the previous night’s frost. Even her spring sage lay flaccid. Long hours of hard labor would be required to clean the beds. Time was running out to do all the work to prepare for winter. It was all too much, storing the heavy wrought-iron furniture and ornaments. Why did she buy all that junk in the first place? Drinking cold coffee and staring out

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the window wasn’t going to get the job done. She groaned, gripped the arms of the wicker chair, and shoved herself up. At least it would force her to get dressed. A hot shower might even help. The telephone rang as she passed.

She let it ring.

She listened to it ring

continually these past weeks. When the messages were left on the machine, she ignored them. Finally, to seek the peace she craved, she pulled the cord out of the socket and disconnected the damned thing. Lonnie must have plugged it back in. With a quick yank of the cord, the irritating ring stopped. The welcome sound of silence filled her house one again. The scent of kiwi soap filled the steamy shower and revived her enough to consider getting dressed. The peach shampoo almost repaired the damage caused by days of neglect. While toweling off, she gazed into the mirror, surprised by the visible weight loss. Using the blow dryer required too much effort. The hell with it, eventually her hair would dry. Not bothering with a comb, she stepped over her suitcases to the lingerie chest. With a glance down, she contemplated unpacking. The thought brought hot tears to her eyes. Touching the clothes would bring back too many memories best forgotten. Staring into her closet, she decided there were gardening clothes and then there were gardening clothes. She had friends who were part-timers and wore chic designer jeans with classy matching shirts, but as an avid gardener she kept the same ragged pants and tattered flannel shirts for centuries. At least that’s how they looked hanging in the orderly closet alongside her tailored suits and cocktail dresses. Donning the familiar ragtag clothes gave her a reassuring sense of comfort, just as they had when she bought this house to move forward after Matthew had died. Once outside, she dragged the wheelbarrow and tools from the garage and made her way into the yard. Opening the arbor gate wasn't easy as the hinges had rusted shut. She also saw that the paint had peeled away and the wood had rotted. “Now this damn thing has to be repaired,” she grumbled into the frosty air. The little toe hold she had gained was slipping away and again she was overwhelmed.

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A frostbitten rosebud dangled through the wooden slats desperately, clinging to life. She choked back her tears and savagely ripped it from the dead vine. “I never want to see another rose again.” Her words bounced off the icy air. “I hate them and I hate my life.” The solace of gardening allowed her to become philosophical. She couldn’t hide from her problems and never should have gone to Europe. She should’ve stayed right there and met her life head on. She had always told her clients that their problems would be home when they returned. Tidy things up before you traveled. She bet not one of them ever brought home new problems, let alone heartache. Hours passed unnoticed as she worked clearing and cleaning, tugging and dragging. Somehow the privacy garden had gotten larger, at least that’s how it felt by the ache in her shoulders and the ungodly amount of work left to be accomplished. She was exhausted. The wind had picked up and the air had become cold. She hunched into herself for warmth then stood and stretched her strained muscles, surveying the work yet to be done. No time for excuses. Her line of vision was filled with a tall, rugged man standing under the arbor. Too dumbfounded to speak and positive it was a sadistic trick of the setting sun, she couldn’t speak. Her throat was dry, her tongue thick. How could her mind be so cruel? This had to be a dream, a wretched, tortuous dream. “Heicke gave me your phone number from the hotel registration card,” David calmly said, his heart pounding. He had to make her need him. She was his life. “Why do you not answer your phone? I have called you repeatedly,” he asked quietly as he walked across the garden with two red roses gripped in his hand. He stepped closer, his heart stopped at the appearance of the woman he loved. Her stance hinted at fragility, her look discouraged. Tears trickled down her cheeks, smearing the gardening dust.

Afraid she might break, he spoke in a gentle tone.

“Lonnie met me at the airport today. She told me where to find you. She is happy you stopped “tramping” your way through Germany. I told her we never hiked. That we drove everywhere. Then she laughed and asked if I had a younger brother. She is a

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very unsettling young lady.” His massive frame stood before her. She couldn’t grasp all his words, her mind too stunned. His reassuring tone brought her new hope. Her heart knocked in her rib cage, breathing had become impossible. “I love you, Teddi. You are all I want in my life. I vow to always be there for you, support you in whatever path you choose. I’ve waited a long time for the right woman. Now that I have found you, I do not want to let you go. Will you marry me?” David spread his arms wide. Energy surged through her body at hearing the words she’d yearned for and the joy almost burst her heart. Teddi ran to those strong arms. “Oh, yes sir, I will. I most certainly will.”

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Epilogue

“Claus has wisely decided living in Montreal, with a monthly allowance, is preferable to seven years in a German prison.

Wolfe has also arranged a private

sanatorium to treat him for his problems.” David glanced up after reading the letter from his attorney. Relief had smoothed out the tension lines etched on his face. Logs crackled in the fireplace shooting sparks up the flue. The warm glow added a touch of cheeriness to the dreary winter afternoon. Teddi set a tray of tea and sandwiches on the antique sideboard and glanced at her husband sprawled in his easy chair. Her heart swelled with love for him. “And what about the Baroness?” “Wolfe claims she knew of Claus’s plan, but did not participate.” The papers rustled in his hands as he scanned the information. “She has left Germany. No one knows to where. I am sure she will turn up again someday.” She turned to the window. Lacy snowflakes drifted down covering the wet ground. Life was now perfect. Francine was ecstatic to be the working partner in their travel agency. The energetic ball of fire had some excellent advertising promotions already in the works. Faxes from her arrived at hurricane speed with new and upbeat ideas. The business had improved under her clear and focused direction. It was amazing how you could work with someone for years and never be aware of their dreams. 159

Teddi had all the time she wanted to dote on her new husband. Decorating his Munich home had been effortless. It had only required a few flowers and a little color to turn the austere bachelor house into a warm, loving home. He’d been so obliging about shopping, he even took time off work to go with her. Now she had the time she needed to operate the tour company. Mutti had accepted Teddi with open arms. The seal of approval had been firmly stamped. She acted as if she had personally chosen Teddi for David. Heicke, Wolfe, and Rhineholdt had made her feel like a much needed addition to their tight little group, with no sign of resentment at one of their brotherhood marrying. Yes, life was perfect. Except for one seriously important factor. Lonnie was thousands of miles away and she missed her terribly. They planned to commute between the two continents; until then the trans-Atlantic calls helped. But it just wasn’t the same. Christmas was only four days away and this was the first time they’d been apart for the holidays. She had to shake her sadness before David picked up on it. “Meine Frau, this letter is addressed to you. It is important, I think.” Grinning, he stretched out a muscular arm. She set down the white marble statue of a knight she’d been toying with before she walked to his chair and tore open the envelope. Dear Sis & Hunk, See you in Munich. Look for me at the Christmas Market. I’ll be the woman looking for a driver! Love to you both, Lonnie The End

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We hope you enjoyed this installment of the Magnificent Men of Munich. You can

read

Francine’s

story

in

Francine

on

Fire,

now

available

at

www.AspenMountainPress.com. Be sure to visit Aspen Mountain Press and join our newsletter where you can be kept up-to-date on our new releases, special offers and discounts, and contests and drawings. And now, for an excerpt from Sloane Taylor’s sexy tale, Francine on Fire. Excerpt: Francine slipped out the side door of the dining room when Heicke turned his back. Less than confident, she walked alone across the silent, black golf course. Her imagination played tricks as the tree branches swayed in the cool breeze, casting spidery images of boogie men in front of her. She looked up at the sky, praying the clouds would clear and allow the moon to give off more light. Dammit. Her shoe caught, yet again, in the wet grass. The damned expensive things were being ruined with every step she took. She wiggled her ankle, only to sink further into the mud. The only option left was to take off the shoe. Gathering her skirt so it wouldn’t get soaked, she bent over. A twig snapped. “Holy shitta.” A hand clamped over her mouth. Jack the Ripper, Charles Manson, and every bloodcurdling creature Stephen King ever wrote about had joined together to attack her. She’d never been so scared, even when she had lived in her old car and been dumb enough to park it overnight at a drug house. She jerked around, flailing her arms. Crack. Teetering as the heel broke off her sandal, she smacked into a solid wall of muscle. “Shush, Pixie. It is me, Heicke.” He wrapped his arms around her and she choked back a sob.

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“Are you crazy?” Her heart pumped faster than a jet engine during take off. “You scared the living hell out of me.” “It was not my intention.” He rubbed his hand rhythmically over her back, easing out her fear. She snuggled into him, grateful for his warmth. A spicy scent enveloped her as he pulled his coat around her shoulders. “You were very beautiful in the mirror and I became curious as to why you would leave without me.” “I figured you’d get around to that eventually. After we were, ah, driving back from the shed, I forgot all about the charity donations.” Even to her the truth sounded stupid. “And you thought it best to come out here alone?” She couldn’t see his face, but his suspicious tone said it all. “In the middle of the night?” “What? You thought I came out here to lay some guy?” Jerk. He tapped a gentle finger on her lips. “No, perhaps I do not understand because of the idiosyncrasies of other languages. At least I hope that is my problem. Please explain about this laying of the golfers and why you did not wait for me.” "Oh you have problems, all right.” She tried to pull away, but he tightened his grip and her heart skipped a couple of beats. “And there’s no help needed, Pup. I’m perfectly capable of surviving on my own.” "So I see, and may I add you are making a fine job of it.” Lucky for him, his tone seemed to hold humor. “I know you, Pixie, better than you realize. Logic tells me you are not out here to have sex with someone.” “Thank you for noticing.”

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