Healing Hearts 6: To Love Again Read online

  She shook her head. She shouldn’t be entertaining any of this. It could be disastrous, especially if she bashed heads with Miller. Then of course there was Eagan. She’d barely spoken to him, but when he touched her, pressing a hand to her back and guiding her, she felt it. She felt those deep, dark blue eyes staring at her, watching her at her apartment when she first got home from the hospital. He probably hadn’t noticed that she noticed because so many people were there, but she had. He was a different kind of intimidation, and combined, the three of them would rock her world and turn it upside down. She was a quiet person. She liked to keep to herself, and she hated confrontations. In a lot of ways she might be considered timid, but she did her best to put up a front because most of her friends were strong and tough. It was just that, in the past, she’d relied on Westin to take the lead and protect her. In the last few years, she’d been learning to handle everything herself, and the best method of handling conflict or trouble was to avoid it. Some logic that was. She’d still wound up being abducted and now was interested in three men who could eat little ol’ her alive.

  She wasn’t ready for this. Couldn’t handle this. She hadn’t dated anyone, kissed any other man than Westin, never mind had sex with them. Holy hell. She thought about that, too. About what sex might be like with them individually and, of course, together. That was why she was so tired and had a headache. No sleep last night.

  She thought about Eagan. Quiet, intense, a soldier capable of unknown things. That dark mysterious expression, the muscles, the rock-solid body, crew cut hair, deep blue eyes that had the ability to touch her body with one look. Holy hell, she could come just thinking about him, about Miller and Houston. Miller all businesslike and demanding, like he’d been just now on the phone. He was used to getting his way. Well, she was not a follower. Yes, she was shy and reserved, but she would not get walked over. Yet, she didn’t see him doing that to her. In her dreams she imagined him demanding in a different sort of way. Like some sexy businessman, he would sit in the chair, dressed all businesslike, his tie undone and a glass of brandy in one hand as he relaxed after a stressful day at work, and he would stare at her and ask her to help him de-stress. Perhaps he would want her dressed a certain way. Maybe some sexy designer negligée, or even naked, kneeling before him with her hands on her thighs. Holy hell.

  She wiggled in the seat and shook her head. Then she thought about Houston. Cool, calm, a regular guy managing a place like Gordon’s, with his tight designer jeans or, better yet, khaki pants, boat shoes, button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up his forearms showing bulging muscles and tattoos, and that sexy, model grin of his. She could just imagine his whiskers, giving him a shadow of a beard, and that dimpled, yet seasoned expression as he squinted at her, wrinkles by his eyes. She licked her lips and felt her pussy spasm and her nipples harden. She liked them. Was attracted to them. What woman wouldn’t be? However, she didn’t think she could handle them at all.

  There was a knock at her office door, and she cleared her head and hoped she wasn’t flushed from thinking about the brothers. She wore a sleeveless high-neck shirt to cover the bruises there, but the one by her cheek and eye were still noticeable even with the makeup. She turned to look up.

  “Come in.”

  The door opened, and there was her boss, Mr. Mather. He gave a smile. “I heard that you were back. Are you sure that you’re okay to be working?”

  She stood up, and he pulled her into an embrace. He was a wonderful man, and he knew about her life, about Westin and the things she’d been through. As they’d spoken during her interview four years ago, they discussed it and why she’d left such a posh job in New York City for South Carolina. Once they’d spoken about his connections in the military and police, they bonded.

  “I need to keep going and get back to a routine. I’ll be okay. Figured I could get all the paperwork and computer things done in the next few days, and by the end of the week, these bruises should be better and the cover-up should cover more so guests won’t need to be curious.”

  He gave a sympathetic smile.

  “Thank God they caught those men. Do you still have the headaches? Perhaps the computer work should wait if it aggravates it.”

  “No, that’s okay. I just have a mild one. More from lack of sleep than the concussion.”

  “Are your friends still staying with you?” he asked with a concerned expression.

  “No, but it’s okay. I need to move on and get back into the routine, as I mentioned earlier. I wanted to ask you about this event coming up in two weeks. I guess it came in while I was out. Do you know what exactly they are looking for in regards to theme? It doesn’t give much information. Just to contact a woman named Bailey.”

  “Yes, that’s actually Miller’s personal assistant.”

  “Miller?”

  “Yes, he has a business associate, Warren Hayes, and they’re working together on a new construction project. They’re throwing this private event for some of the real estate coordinators, bankers for loans, interior decorators, and some big wigs interested in purchasing some of the units and homes that will be built as part of the construction. It’s a promo thing, so I don’t believe there will be a theme. However, Miller’s PA, Bailey can definitely assist.”

  She was surprised this had something to do with Miller, but then he did seem like he was involved with a lot of investment projects. She felt a little uneasy about this and also about calling this woman Bailey. She couldn’t help but to wonder what the woman might look like. How young or old she was and if there was something between her and Miller. She had no right to even wonder, and it was crazy how her thought process was going.

  “Bailey is very nice, and she will be a huge help in coordinating the event.”

  “Great, then I’ll give her a call.”

  “Okay, remember to rest in between. I want you taking your time, and I don’t want you pushing it.”

  “I will, Mr. Mather.” He gave her a wink and a smile then exited her office.

  She took a deep breath and exhaled as she looked at the folder. It really wasn’t going to be that many people. Fifty tops. She knew what room they could use but would ask Bailey to make sure that Miller wasn’t looking for a specific room. She picked up the phone and dialed her.

  “Gordon Associates,” the woman said.

  Emma thought about that a moment as she asked to speak to Bailey. Gordon? That was Miller’s last name and his brothers of course. Did Miller own Gordon’s bar and restaurant, or did Houston or maybe the three of them? Houston had told her he was a manager there, not an owner. Why wouldn’t he admit to it being his restaurant and bar? She had an uneasy feeling. Like perhaps Houston, despite being so immediately caring and into her, didn’t trust her to tell her the truth. Could it be?

  Faith and even Brook had mentioned some gossip on the men, and Melinda said she heard that they don’t date, were bachelors who could get any woman they wanted, and that Miller was a playboy. She hadn’t wanted to believe the gossip. They hadn’t seemed to show her that side of them, but then again, she really didn’t know them or spend time with them. She didn’t want to be used or be the next play thing. She felt bad, as if she’d read into their kindness out of desperation or a need she hadn’t had in years. It was better to keep things professional. She didn’t have time to think about that as Bailey got on the phone and they began to talk.

  Fifteen minutes later she was laughing with Bailey and getting a good feeling about the woman. She was friendly and very organized like Emma. Emma still had that little jealous feeling that the woman and Miller could have something between them, but that was stupid.

  “So, I’ll be there to go over things on Friday, and then Miller will confirm over dinner. Does that work for you?”

  “Dinner with Miller and you?”

  “Just Miller. He will have the final say. I can make reservations at Rolloff’s.”

  “Oh no, don’t be silly. We don’t need to go that fancy. Besides, I
won’t have time to change. See if he doesn’t mind going to Dillard’s. It would be more convenient, and the food is great there.”

  “I love that place. I met one of my ex-boyfriends there. They serve the best burgers.”

  “They sure do. I’ll talk to you on Friday, and in the meantime, I will email you some pictures and some final choices for the event.”

  “Excellent. I’m certain Miller will be thrilled with the outcome.”

  “Great. Thank you for the help, Bailey.”

  “Any time.”

  Emma ended the call. How had she wound up having to have dinner alone with Miller and talk about this event for next week? Why couldn’t Bailey just confirm? Miller made her nervous. She felt a little out of his league, especially as Bailey made a few comments about other investments and made Miller seem like a control freak, a man who insisted on being in charge at all times, as well as very demanding.

  Her cell phone buzzed, and she glanced down to see that it was Faith texting.

  So, when are you going on a date with Houston?

  Emma was instantly nervous. She wasn’t sure she wanted to go out with him and to face the whole dating thing. Someone knocked on the door. “Come in.”

  Margaret appeared with a large vase of flowers. “These just arrived for you.”

  “For me?” she asked Mr. Mather’s secretary.

  “Yes.”

  Emma got up and took in the sight of the gorgeous arrangement. It must have cost a lot of money, and the flowers were all so bright and beautiful. She could smell them already. She reached for the card.

  “Who are they from? A secret admirer?” Margaret asked.

  Emma was nervous as she looked at the card, and then she smiled. They were from Martin. The card said, Hope this brightens your day.

  “Who are they from? You aren’t even blushing.”

  Emma laughed. “They’re from a very good friend of mine from New York. He knew I was starting back to work today.”

  “Just a friend?” she asked.

  “Oh yes, one I’ve known him for about five years or so. A good guy.”

  “That was so nice of him. He must be a gem to send those to you. Is he single? My Sally could use a little help in the boyfriend department. She’s a loser magnet,” Margaret said, and Emma chuckled.

  “He is single, but lives in New York.”

  ”Figures. Enjoy the flowers.” Margaret left the office.

  Emma looked at the flowers and took a picture then sent it to Faith. A few seconds later Faith called, and Emma answered the call.

  “Aren’t they gorgeous?” Emma asked.

  “From Houston?”

  “No, from Martin. He knew I was starting back up today.”

  “Nice, I didn’t realize that he was trying to get you into bed still.”

  “What?”

  “Oh, come on. You’re talking about Martin right? He called you multiple times a day when you were recovering. It was obvious he has the hots for you.”

  “Faith, he doesn’t. He’s just a good friend. My only connection to New York really.”

  “And to Westin, so be careful.”

  Emma was silent a moment and thought about her relationship with Martin. It was a friendship and nothing more to her, but maybe, to him, it was different. He did want to come and stay at her place when he visited. She felt a knot in her belly.

  “See, your silence says it all. So why aren’t you going out with Houston? By the way the man was holding on to you all night at Corporal’s. I thought for sure you were taking him home.”

  “What? Me? Not a chance. Besides, he didn’t ask me out, and I want to take things slow. I’m not about to jump into anything with all the recent events.”

  “So this guy Martin is causing you to hold back?”

  “No.”

  “Seems like it to me. Like he’s the connection to Westin and Westin’s family and you feel guilty so you keep in touch with them.”

  Emma was quiet. Faith had a point.

  “I thought so. You have nothing to feel guilty about. You said it happened like three or four years ago. You’ve been alone since, and finally you have feelings for three men.”

  “Three?”

  “This is Mercy, and yes, three. I’ve seen how they look at you.”

  “Oh boy.”

  “Lucky lady you are, Emma, so don’t screw this up.”

  Emma laughed. “I’m not going to entertain anything or rush into anything at all. I really don’t think it can work. Between my fears, including current ones, and their individual personalities, I would be in over my head, and I don’t want to be used. Especially not by three men. I need to get back to work.”

  “I don’t think they would use you. I’ve been around when these things happen. You have, too. You saw how Ice, Frankie, Ranger, and Roman looked at Casey. How Selasi, Zayn, and Thermo looked at Kai and how she looked at them. It is different, and real. So were the looks of possessiveness and concern on Miller’s, Houston’s, and Eagan’s faces when they were with you at the hospital and at your place with the rest of us. You are on their radar, and they’ll be no hiding now.”

  “I don’t know about that. Today is my first day back to work, and there’s a lot to do and also a lot to deal with emotionally. I’m already thinking about walking through the parking lot to my car and about going home alone.”

  “I can meet you or one of the others. What are you doing for dinner? We could grab something together and bring it back to your place.”

  “Really?”

  “Sure.”

  “No, wait, I can’t be stupid and freak out. The best thing to do would be to face my fears. I’m just going to grab a salad down the block and then head home.”

  “If you change your mind, I’m here for you.”

  “I appreciate that. Thanks.”

  “Will you be going to Gordon’s with us Friday night?”

  “Not sure I can. I have a project here, and then I’m finalizing over dinner.”

  “Ohh, another guy? Look at you go.”

  “Actually, it’s Miller.”

  “Here we go. Oh yeah, I am so excited now. Just watch your ass with him. Wealthy guys can be pompous, and they’re used to getting their way.”

  Emma laughed. “I will. Talk to you later.”

  She ended the call and smirked. Faith was so funny. She seemed to know a lot about men, too. She wondered why Faith didn’t date. Emma assumed that they all had their reasons and possibly little secrets. Hers was no different. A broken heart was hard to heal, and trying again, opening up to emotions and the potential for heartbreak, was just still so scary. Taking things slow was the best idea, but only the right kind of man could accept that. Finding more than one to accept that at the same time had to be impossible. She needed to be realistic. Sometimes there was just an attraction, but not a commitment. She needed the commitment.

  Chapter 3

  Eagan gripped the phone tighter, trying to calm his anger. The commander had no idea how difficult it was to deal with a newbie like Carson who thought he knew it all but hadn’t a clue. Two years in Special Forces and the kid wasn’t even wet behind the ears, never mind experienced.

  “Carson, I’m telling you to watch your ass with this mission. It isn’t to be taken lightly. I’ve seen what these people can do, and if they catch you, or even think you could be spying or looking to grab one of their men, they’ll slit your throat and send your body back to the States in pieces.”

  “I got this, Eagan. I know what I’m doing, and I’m not scared. I’m prepared. Maybe you’re getting a little intimidated by these kinds of missions in your old age. Could be time to step aside and let the young guys take over.”

  Eagan wished the guy was in front of him. He’d deck him and knock him out.

  “Listen, don’t be cocky. The commander and I have discussed this with you. I don’t care that your uncle has pull and got you into the unit. I fucking don’t. I care about the men coming back alive, not i
n body bags. I’ve assisted with these things, have engaged in them before. You think it’s a small mission, but it isn’t. Every mission is dangerous.”

  “Is there a reason for this call other than one filled with bullshit?”

  “Goddamn it, Carson, I’m fucking telling you to take this seriously. To follow the plan I coordinated with inside people or else things could go south quickly. The location isn’t one to get to easily.”

  “Holy fuck, we’ve been over this before. You’re not the only bad-ass soldier who can pull this shit off. I’ll get what is needed, complete the mission, and then be back within the week. Now I need to go. I’ve got a few women to say good-bye to.”

  Carson hung up on him, and Eagan raged. “Dumb fucking idiot. Holy shit, why were they letting some asshole push for his nephew to go into this? Fuck!” He slammed his hand down on the table then heard his brother Houston clear his throat.

  He looked at him.

  “What’s wrong?” Houston asked.

  Eagan shook his head, gripping the chair in front of him and trying not to rage. He didn’t have the patience for this. He didn’t like feeling responsible when he wasn’t. Carson wasn’t his choice. He’d told the commander, but strings were pulled and other missions taking place. Maybe he should go along and ensure that Carson and the small team of four were able to handle this? Fuck, he knew that they were well trained, and hell, he had his times in the beginning where he had to go off on his own, but he was a different soldier. He was never cocky or overly confident, despite his abilities. He knew that anything could happen and go wrong. There was a fear in him now of not returning, and it was why he pulled back. He gripped the chair and rocked it.

  “Holy shit, something is really bothering you. Talk to me, Eagan. I’m here for you, like I know you’re always here for me,” Houston told him.