AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Because it’s none of your business, Miss Snoopy Nose.” He reached beyond her to switch off the screen.
“On the contrary, remember my mentioning the big events I’m catering? Well, my firm is handling Poole Publishing’s Bookseller’s Gala.” She noted the surprised look on his face as she leaned back in her seat. “You don’t have to be so touchy about this. I can assure you, your secret is safe with me.”
“I’m not touchy.” He let out a weary breath. “Some assistant you turned out to be. The red army could have rowed across the lake, and you wouldn’t have known it.”
“I’ll have you know, I took periodic looks outside. Nothing moved but a couple of deer.” She’d followed his instructions to the letter. Except for keeping out of his stuff. “I had to do something to keep awake. Remember, I’m not used to these all-night stakeouts like you are.”
He shook his head. “That’s no excuse for disobeying my instructions.”
Anger flared for a moment, but then she sighed, feeling exactly like the Miss Snoopy Nose he’d called her. “When I saw a new Ramsey L. Jacobs novel, I couldn’t resist. I’m sorry for intruding on a touchy issue for you.”
He shrugged. “I’d appreciate it if you’d stop referring to me as touchy.”
“Fine.” She stifled a grin at his wounded tone. He didn’t like being called sensitive.
He frowned, his brow wrinkling. “It’s your turn to catch some sleep. I’ll keep watch.”
“I’m a big mystery fan, you know.”
He went still and slanted an enquiring glance her way.
Encouraged by his interest, she continued, “I’ve read two of your previous books. They were excellent.”
“You don’t say.”
She nodded, noting his edgy tone. He probably wasn’t used to sharing this area of his life. “This book is good, too.”
He continued to look at her, an eyebrow raised. “Good?”
“Great. It’s just that your hero is so stiff and stuffy. He needs a life outside the case. A little romance.”
He frowned. “He’s a loner. Detective Murphy is supposed to be alone.”
She shrugged. “Well, that’s just my amateur opinion. Even so, I’m a big fan.”
“Thanks.”
She detected the hint of a blush on his face as he seemed to soak up her praise reluctantly. Did her positive opinion mean that much to him? “So, why the pen name and all the secrecy?”
“Being thought of as a creative person isn’t advantageous to the business-like reputation I need to convey at Logan Industries. Consequently, I separated the different areas of my life until I was ready to leave my job.”
She substituted goon-like for business-like, but she got the picture. “That’s why you’re leaving? To pursue your writing career?”
“That’s one of the reasons, but I’m mainly tired of the old routine. I need new challenges.” His mouth kicked in a wry grin. “And let me tell you, spending a week with you without killing you or making love to you will be an exciting challenge.”
“Thanks a lot.” He’d probably used the comment to get a rise out of her, but she wrinkled her nose, refusing to be baited by his mention of making love. At least she was satisfied knowing she’d shaken him up, too.
He studied her mild reaction and then shrugged. “Go to sleep, Samantha. I’ll take the next watch.”
She climbed into bed. “You’ll wake me if anything happens?”
He pulled the covers over her, tucking her in. He bent over, his hands on either side of her, and pressed her down onto the mattress as he kissed her. His lips brushed against hers, and he nipped at her lower lip until she opened her mouth to his marauding tongue.
Pulling away, he said, “Don’t worry, Sunshine. I’ll take care of everything.”
She watched him walk away, stunned by the intimate gesture. Smiling, she closed her eyes. Her lips tingled from the kiss. The pillow still carried his scent and his warmth.
She pictured herself frolicking through her dewy meadow as she fell asleep. But this time, she wasn’t alone. Jake was by her side.
