He would simply have to keep looking.
Chapter Eight
Ethan struggled from sleep as a shaft of light fell across his face. Someone had opened the curtains.
“Ethan,” Jerry prodded softly. “Wake up. We have to get ready for dinner.” She hated to wake him, but it couldn’t be helped.
Groaning, Ethan opened one eye to see Jerry standing in front of him, still wearing her yoga outfit. He felt his body respond automatically, partially from the dream he’d been having about her, and partially from the memory of the way she’d looked without the pants and jacket. In that second, he was grateful to be lying face down.
“I’m up. What time is it?” His eyes were open, but he made no move to sit. Having her in his bedroom was disconcerting, and felt much too intimate. Jerry turned to leave.
“It’s nearly six. I’m sorry to wake you, but I need the room.” Jerry reached the door and glanced back to see him, still lying down, but watching her intently.
“Of course, I’ll be in out in a sec.”
“I’ll put on some coffee.”
“Thanks.” He waited until she closed the door before daring to sit up. “Damnation,” he whispered. I’m acting like a teenager, raging hormones and all. She probably thinks I’m daft.” Staring down at the evidence of his arousal, he growled. “Stop thinking about her, or you’ll never be able to move.”
Jerry placed a coffee cup on the table, just as Ethan stepped into the great room.
“Thanks, that smells wonderful.” She could swear she saw his color heighten as he spoke to her.
“You’re welcome. I’m heading for the shower. There’re plenty of snacks, if you’re hungry.”
“I’m famished, thanks. Sorry I slept so long, any news?”
“No, nothing important since you spoke with Dylan. I won’t be long.” Jerry disappeared into the bedroom, closing the door behind her.
The cavernous bathroom was large enough for a family of four, but Jerry still hated sharing it with a stranger. Especially a stranger that made her pulse race, with his sleepy bedroom eyes, and hair that begged her to touch.
The powder room was also generous, with plenty of room for Ethan to get dressed. It didn’t have a shower, so they had no choice but to share the one in the master bath.
Jerry surveyed the variety of pots, bottles, and colorful containers that lined the vanity section of the bath. She had no idea what to do with half of that stuff, couldn’t imagine why anyone would need so many different powders and lotions. The stylist left them here for a reason; she would just have to suck it up, and learn what was what.
Thirty minutes later, Jerry left the bathroom covered in creams and lotions, and a slinky bathrobe designed to leave little to the imagination. Thankfully, she had a few of her own belongings in the go-bag she kept at the office. She rummaged through it now, searching for a pair of old sweats that would be more presentable than the silky bit of fabric, molding her every curve. No way was she facing Ethan dressed in next to nothing.
“You look nice, very shabby chic.” He teased moments later, as she entered the great room. “I especially like the turban. Is that new this season?” He motioned at the fluffy towel covering Jerry’s hair.
“Thanks, I’m starting a trend.” She teased back. “I thought you might appreciate the shower, before I begin getting dressed.” Jerry poured a cup of coffee.
“Yes, I would. I’ve been in these clothes for over twenty-four hours.” He ran his hand over his chin, feeling the stubble that made him look more rakish than usual.
“It’s all yours.” Jerry joined him at the table.
“I hope this isn’t too awkward for you, living with a virtual stranger.” Ethan met her gaze and felt another punch of attraction. What the hell was happening to him? How could a woman, dressed in ratty sweats, with no makeup, and her hair piled beneath a bulky towel, hold any appeal, much less make him want to taste every inch of her beautiful body? It was nuts and definitely a first.
Jerry thought she read desire in his eyes, and nearly shook her head. She had to be getting her signals mixed up. There was no way he could possibly think she was attractive at the moment.
“It’s fine. You’re not the worst roommate I’ve had. During my six years with the agency, I’ve learned to roll with the punches.” She smiled. “It’s not exactly a hardship, living here. My apartment in Virginia would fit in these two rooms.”
“If your job is anything like mine, I doubt that you spend much time there.” Ethan stood and cleared his dishes.
“Not much, but it’s nice to have a place to come home to.” Jerry shrugged.
“I haven’t seen my flat in London for months. I know what you mean, though. It’s good to have a place to call home. My parents moved back to Australia last year; Dad retired and Mom set up a new practice. They’d tell you that my home is wherever they are, and it’s true. But I do require my own space.”
“Umm, it’s nice that you’re so close to them.”
“Yes, but it’s difficult to see them as often as I’d like. Are you close with your family?” Ethan leaned against the kitchen doorway, still holding an empty plate and coffee mug.
“Not really.” Jerry answered, then hastily changed the subject. “Oooh, look at the time,” she glanced up at the massive clock. “You’d better claim the shower before I start to transform this mess.” She indicated herself with a wave of her hand.
“You’re beautiful, just as you are.” The sincerity in Ethan’s voice was unmistakable.
“And you need your eyes checked, in addition to a shower.” Jerry laughed. “But thanks.”
Ethan winked, then disappeared into the kitchen.
~~~
Jerry was pleasantly surprised to see that Ethan had left the bathroom as neatly as he’d found it; no wet towels lying on the floor, no hair in the sink, and, best of all, the toilet seat was down. He’s either a neat freak, or he’s trying to impress me, she thought with a smile. “I’ll take either one,” she said aloud.
Leaving half of the pots and potions lining her dressing table unopened, Jerry applied self-proclaimed miracle creams that made her skin feel like silk, and makeup that cost more than her monthly car payment. She couldn’t remember the last time she had to primp this much for an assignment, including the time she worked undercover as a high-class call girl to help break up a drug ring.
The silk floral cocktail dress she’d already selected to wear that evening, hinted at a classic, fifties-era design, with its tight fitting bodice, sweetheart neckline, and full, fluffy skirt. She’d always loved the style, but dressing for dinner in her world usually meant slacks and a sweater, or, at best, a simple skirt and blouse. Living, eating, and breathing the SSCD left no room for exploring her secret passion for vintage clothing, and all things girly. She’d never admit it to Dylan or Nate, but this assignment spoke to her innermost desires on so many levels.
Letting the dress fall over her head, she was pleased to see that it stopped, just above her knees, though she suspected that it was designed to land below the knee on a woman of average height. Still, it was acceptable, classic and more than a little flirty.
She left her hair long, as that was Casanova’s preference, and attached a sapphire studded clip to one side as her only accessory. With one last glance at her reflection, she grabbed a matching pashmina and headed for the door.
Ethan’s reaction as she entered the room told Jerry everything she needed to know. “Wow, you look wonderful.” She was made to satisfy every man’s fantasy, he thought. The perfect combination of classic beauty, and sultry sensuality. He wondered how he’d gotten so lucky.
“Thanks. You clean up pretty good yourself.” She smiled approvingly at his deep blue suit, paired with a crisp, white shirt.
The three-inch pumps she’d chosen brought her to within an inch of Ethan’s six-foot-four stance. Together, they made a striking pair, and would surely turn more than one head tonight.
“
Are you ready for our debut?” Ethan’s dimples deepened when he smiled at her.
“As I’ll ever be.” Jerry took his proffered arm, feeling a jolt race through her system. “By the way, Dylan called to remind us that the society editor from the Chronicle will be there tonight. Plans are to plaster our photo and a brief “look who’s here” article in the paper tomorrow.”
“That should help get his attention.” Ethan made a grand gesture of opening the door. “Your kingdom awaits, m’lady.”
Jerry couldn’t help but smile. She really did feel a little like Cinderella. “Why thank you, kind sir,” she responded and swept out the door.
~~~
Word that a photographer from the Chronicle would be at Quincette that evening had spread to at least a dozen paparazzi, all of whom were waiting when Ethan escorted Jerry from the car. Doing her best to appear aloof and disinterested in the face of so many flashing cameras, Jerry held onto Ethan’s hand, letting him lead her into the restaurant.
The beautifully appointed dining room was both modern and relaxed. Tables, set with candlelight and crystal, beckoned diners to sit and enjoy. As the hostess led them to a two-top in the middle of the room, Jerry tried not to look impressed with the ambiance. The woman she portrayed would be accustomed to such beautiful surroundings. She would also be used to the admiring glances she felt directed at both her, and Ethan.
She could hardly blame the women. Ethan looked like a walking dream. Some were watching him covertly, others openly stared. She sat up just a little straighter, knowing that he was hers, even if it was only for work.
“You’re creating a sensation.” His words surprised her, the only ‘sensation’ she could see was the women’s reactions to him.
“I think you mean you’re stirring things up.”
“Maybe a little, but every man in the room wishes he were me tonight.” Ethan reached across the table and took her hand. She felt an instant tingle race along her spine.
“Isn’t that a line from a movie?” Jerry tried not to appear affected by his touch.
“Probably, but it fits. You’re truly stunning.” His fingers held hers lightly as he looked deep into her eyes.
He’s just playing a role, Jerry reminded herself. It’s all part of the game. “Thank you. It’s all for you, darling.” The endearment rolled off of her tongue, even though she’d never remembered calling anyone ‘darling’ before tonight.
Ethan raised his eyebrows slightly, then relaxed. This had to be the best assignment he’d ever landed. At this moment in time, he was grateful that Casanova had led him to this place, to this woman. The wave of guilt that followed his thought was not enough to make him regret it.
“Tell me about your day, my sweet.” Ethan waited until the waiter had left with their drink order before opening the conversation. “Did you do anything amusing?”
“Oh, yes. It was wonderful.” Jerry launched into a description of the yoga class, and her participation in the same, that had Ethan genuinely laughing.
“I really don’t think you should laugh at me until you can hook both ankles behind your head.” Jerry tone dripped sweetness, but Ethan saw the daggers in her eyes. It made him laugh harder.
“I’m sorry, love, but you make it sound a treat. I really think I’d like to join you tomorrow, just to see it for myself.”
“Don’t you dare,” Jerry’s eyes flashed, even though her smile remained warm.
“We’ll see,” he teased. “So, did you make any new friends?”
“Yes. I met a lovely girl who attends the same class every day. She’s as good as the instructor.” Jerry accepted the menu from the waiter, noting that he only had eyes for Ethan.
“Thank you,” Ethan told him, after hearing the specials. “We’ll let you know when we’re ready.”
“Yes, Sir.” The waiter looked disappointed that he had been dismissed.
“Who knew that oysters on the half shell could sound so sexy?” Jerry teased. “I think he has a crush.”
Ethan ignored her comment. “I’d like to hear more about your day.”
“Of course, I haven’t even made it to the most exciting part.” Jerry enthused, much as she imagined her character would. “You know how I’ve been worried about finding someone who could deal with my hair? Well, Kim, that’s the girl from yoga, has a friend with the same long, thick, mass that I do. Hers is brown, too, by the way, so I won’t be introducing you. I know what a fondness you have for long, brown, hair.” She tossed hers for emphasis.
“Makes me weak in the knees.” He quipped with a grin.
“I know. Anyway, Sonja, that’s Kim’s friend, should be in class tomorrow, so she can tell me which salon she uses.” Jerry finished with a flourish, glee shining in her eyes, along with a smile that would light up Texas. To those nearby who were watching, and listening, it appeared that the most important thing in the world to Jerry, was to find the right hairdresser.
“That’s wonderful, my sweet. I know you’ve been very concerned about it.” Ethan made his voice seem serious.
“I have, I really have.” Jerry batted her eyelashes and it was all Ethan could do to keep from bursting with laughter.
“But that’s enough about me, what did you do today?” Jerry decided to let Ethan entertain her for a while.
“Oh, the usual. I had a few meetings, and spent some time at the track. I should take you, I think you’d enjoy it.”
“I enjoy anything and everything I do with you.” Jerry’s smile made Ethan’s heart do a flip-flop in his chest.
“Thank you, love, the feeling is mutual.” Ethan’s answering smile was equally devastating.
Slow down, girl, Jerry told herself. It’s a game, a role. Do not fall for his charming façade. Even as she mentally chastised her runaway emotions, her heart began to melt.
Chapter Nine
“Good morning, Princess. Nice of you to join us.” Dylan’s grin took the sting from his sarcasm.
“It’s not even eight, what are you doing here?” Jerry stifled a yawn and glanced over at the sofa. As Ethan was not at the table with Dylan, she fully expected to see him lounging on the makeshift bed.
Surprisingly, the sofa bed they’d made up together last night was tucked neatly away. There was no sign of linens, or Ethan, in the room.
“The coffee’s better here. Plus, I brought the paper. They caught your good side.” He winked and tossed the paper onto the table.
“Not before coffee.” Jerry turned towards the kitchen and almost ran into Ethan, carrying two steaming mugs.
“Good morning.” The simple phrase, spoken in his hybrid Australian/English/Italian/French accent, got her senses moving better than a gallon of caffeine. He handed her a mug.
“Morning.” Jerry tried not to blush at the direction of her thoughts, but it was like stopping the tide. “Thanks.” She accepted the mug, turning back towards the table.
Dylan watched the exchange with a little amusement, and a lot of trepidation. It looked like Jerry was smitten with Slick, and vice versa. Dammit, I thought she was smarter than that, he nearly growled aloud.
Ever since Jerry had become his partner, Dylan felt protective of her, sort of like a big brother. She’d more than proven her ability to handle the job, but he still looked out for her. At one point, about a year after his divorce, he’d felt the beginnings of attraction, but he quickly squelched it. For one thing, she was his partner. For another, he never intended to spend more than a few-night’s with any one woman, ever again. Jerry deserved better than that. Just like she deserved better than Slick. Dylan knew his kind; love ‘em and leave ‘em. It was just like him to take advantage of the situation, and mix a little pleasure with business.
Not if I can help it, he swore silently.
“Did you sleep well?” Jerry asked, her gaze still on Ethan.
“Like a babe,” he answered with a smile that made her heart trip.
“I slept great, too. Thanks for asking.” Dylan interjected
.
“That’s nice, but you didn’t sleep on a sofa bed.” Jerry tossed at him.
“No, but have you heard Nate snore? The man sounds like a freight train.” Dylan lied. The truth was that Nate had awakened him last night, thanks to a nightmare, not snoring. But that was Nate’s business. “Luckily, I still had earplugs from the last time you and I shared a room.” He teased.
“Funny man.” Jerry glanced at Ethan. “I so do not snore.” She told him, emphatically.
“How would you know? You sleep like the dead.” Dylan teased.
Ethan observed the pair and felt more than ever that they were not romantically involved. Jerry’s reactions to him yesterday, and last night, had all but convinced him. Watching her interact with Dylan this morning reminded him more of siblings than lovers.
“Let’s see the paper,” Jerry reached for it, just as Ethan did. Their hands brushed, the touch sending shivery tingles, straight to her core. She’d be surprised to know that Ethan felt them, too.
“Mmmm, nice. How did they get it so big? None of the other pictures are this large.” Jerry looked down at the image of her and Ethan, smiling at each other, as they left the restaurant. A few, smaller, images of them arriving, lined the bottom of the frame.
“Ask the Prince.” Dylan left to refill his cup.
“Prince?” Jerry looked puzzled.
“No, technically my title is Duke. It’s part of my cover.” Ethan was suddenly very interested in selecting a muffin. He had no intention of confessing that the royalty aspect of his cover was not far from the truth. “Supposedly, I’m something like 1,676th in line for the English throne. On my father’s side,” he explained.
“And someone made sure to mention that to the press.” Jerry nodded.
“Yes. You Americans are so enamored with anything royal, we thought it would garner more publicity.” Ethan looked sheepish.
“And so it did.” Jerry studied the image, noting how happy they both looked. Anyone would think they were a real couple.
“Not all Americans are royal-crazy,” Dylan said as he returned. “I couldn’t give a rat’s ass about titles. Titles don’t mean diddly squat when it comes to character.” He leveled a warning look at Ethan.