Where The Heart Is
The MacAllister Brothers
Volume One
by Maura McMann
Where The Heart Is
The MacAllister Brothers Volume One
Published by Blushing Books Publications at Smashwords
Copyright 2010 Maura McMann & Blushing Publications
Windfall
By Maura McMann
Chapter One
Mac’s Crossing, Colorado
July, 1889
“I’m glad you think this is so funny. If you were the one sitting here with your head on the chopping block you wouldn’t be laughing.”
Winthorp Jacob MacAllister, II stared at his younger brother, who even now wiped tears of laughter from his cheeks.
“Well, Win, I can tell you one thing. For once in my life I’m glad I’m not the oldest.” Ben MacAllister let out another whoop of laughter, and then buried his face in his hands, his shoulders shaking with mirth.
Behind his desk, Win narrowed his eyes at his brother. Then he shook his head. He supposed that if it were Ben, or one of his other siblings, going through this mess he would think it was funny, too.
But it wasn’t them, it was him. It was his life that was about to come crashing down around his ankles. He had to find a way out of this predicament.
“You know, you’re not helping any. Stop laughing and think of a solution!”
Ben took a deep breath and straightened in his chair. He sniffled and bit back more laughter.
“What can we do? Nothing. Aunt Matilda is on her way. From the date of this letter, a month ago, she may very well be in Denver at the train station right now. Once she catches the stage here to Mac’s Crossing, you’re done for. You’ll be married before you can say Bob’s your uncle. And you’ll be living back in Boston, running Uncle Marston’s law firm.”
“The hell I will. I have a life, you know. And a pretty good one at that. I make good money, I just finished building a house, and one of these days I’ll find my own wife. Besides, there’s one major flaw with that plan. I’m not a lawyer. None of us are.”
“I don’t think Aunt Matty cares. She just wants someone to run the business.”
Win stood and marched to the window. On the street outside, people bustled about and buildings were taking shape. The small town of Mac’s Crossing sat about fifty miles east of Denver. Since his father had founded the town in 1846, some forty years ago, it had grown considerably. Now almost ten thousand people lived in town, or in the surrounding area, farming and ranching. All five of the MacAllister boys had been born here. All five still worked here. And all five planned to stay here.
Their parents, God rest their souls, had died four years ago within months of each other; their mother from pneumonia, their father from a broken heart. Aunt Matilda and Uncle Marston had urged the boys to come to Boston, even though they were all fully grown.
The boys had refused, preferring to stay in the west. Now that Marston had passed, Matty was insistent that one of her nephews move to Boston to care for her and run the family business.
Win walked back to his desk and picked up the letter.
Your father shirked his responsibilities by taking his family, and your wonderful mother, to the God-forsaken place where you live. Now, one of you has to make amends. Since I have no children of my own, one of you will come back to Boston to care for me.
Since you are the oldest, Winthorp, the responsibility falls to you. I will have no other. I will be in your city in one month’s time. Please be prepared to accompany me back to Boston.
Win crumpled the paper and ran his free hand through his dark hair. He was the manager of a bank. He handled hundreds of thousands of dollars in people’s money. He hired, and fired staff and fought off bank robbers. And he was scared of a sixty-three year old woman whom he hadn’t seen in twenty-five years.
“You have to help me.”
“What can I do?”
“You could arrest her.”
Ben barked out a long laugh. “Win, she’s our aunt, and I’m just the sheriff of a small town. She has to break a law before I can arrest her. I could arrest you, tell her you broke some law and have to stay in jail.”
“Tempting. But I don’t care for your jail cooking. I just have to let her know that I’m not leaving. Period. End of story.”
“Ha! Fat chance of that. You remember Aunt Matty, right? Stubborn as an ox. No, what you need, brother dear, is a wife. If you were married, and had some reason to stay here in Mac’s Crossing, then Aunt Matty would have to go back to Boston alone, and find someone to run the business there.”
“Well, in case you haven’t noticed, women aren’t exactly popping up all over out here. Finding a wife before Matty gets here isn’t going to be easy.”
“What about Sarah McKay? She work’s in Josh’s store, and if I remember right, you and she took a shine to each other.”
“We tried that. The shine quickly wore off, for both of us. She and Corbin will be a fine match, if they ever open their eyes to the fact.”
“OK, how about Nancy Lise? She’s always been ga-ga over you.”
“Yes, she has, but I don’t return the affection. She sends chills up my spine, and not in a good way. Too damn bossy and overbearing.”
“OK, how about Melissa, over at the McCarin place? She’s a little young, in her early twenties, but she’s very pretty.”
“Yes, and she married Steve Blankenship last week. Where were you?”
“No kidding? How did I miss that? Well hell, Win. Just go out and rent one. Or tell Aunt Matty you’re expecting a mail-order bride who will be here in a few weeks. That might work.”
Win nodded his head, his eyes taking on a shine.
“That just might work.” Then he shook his head. “Oh hell no, you know Matty. She’d just force me to send the woman back. There has to be a solution somewhere.”
Win sat back down at his desk and buried his face in his hands. His whole life flashed before his eyes, all because of a bossy woman who thought the family owed her.
A loud ruckus from outside caught both brothers’ attentions. Win crossed to the door and flung it open to find his head teller, Mark Pierce, arguing with one of Ben’s deputies, Silas McGee.
“I’ve got to talk to the sheriff. Now!”
Ben stepped out of the office and shook his head.
“Silas, what’s the matter with you? You know better than to go yelling at the bank. It makes people nervous.”
“Sorry, Sheriff, but Miss O’Brien over to the hotel, she needs to talk with you, now.”
Ben took Silas by the arm and pulled him off to a private corner. The younger man started talking animatedly, his hands flying through the air as Ben listened. When Ben has pushed him toward the door, he walked toward his Win and smiled.
“Don’t look now, Win, but I think your prayers have been answered.”
“What? How?” Win felt his heart rate increase. Could it be possible? What the hell had Silas just told Ben, and how could it help him?
“Just get your coat and come with me. I think I just found you a windfall.”
**********
“You cannot keep me here! I demand that you release me. My company will see that you are paid.” Vanessa Trump stomped her slippered foot and sighed in exasperation. She couldn’t believe this was happening. Damn Wiley Sims to hell and back. How dare he do this to her, just because she refused to go to his bed?
“Would that be the same company that left you high and dry? Pardon me, little miss actress, if I don’t believe you.”
Vanessa decided to try a different tactic. She smiled at Catherine O’Brien, who put her hands on her ample hips, and stared at the young woman in front of her.
“Miss O’Brien, isn’t it? Please, you must trust me. I promise you that you will get your money, and more, for your troubles. I will see to it personally.”
“I should have known better than to rent rooms to a traveling acting troupe, lot of good for nothing people if you ask me. Money for one night only. You ain’t going nowhere, missy, so don’t think that batting those baby blues at me will help. The sheriff’s on his way. He’ll get my money back. And you’ll stay in jail until I do!”
“How much money are we talking about, Miss O’Brien?”
The stout woman turned toward the doorway and the frown that was on her face did an immediate about face.
“Why Win, whatever are you doing here? I sent for your brother.”
“He’s here, outside talking to Monty Carp about some missing cattle. He asked me to come inside and see what was happening.”
Vanessa sized up the newcomer. A handsome man in his mid-thirties. Dark hair that was just graying around the temples. Tall and fit, with large hands that he rested on his waist. Was this the sheriff? Maybe, just maybe, she could work her wiles on him. If she could, then she could catch up with the others at Denver. And demand some satisfaction from Wiley Sims.
“Sheriff.” Vanessa stood and gave him a perfect smile. “This is all just a large misunderstanding, I promise you. If you will allow me…”
“I’m not the sheriff.”
Vanessa sat down with a thump and shook her head.
“Then what business is it of yours how much money this woman is owed?”
Win looked Vanessa up and down, then turned his attention to Miss O’Brien.
“How much?”
“They were here a week. Rented every room in the place and ate meals. They owe me seven hundred and fifty dollars, and not a penny less.”
Vanessa gasped. “What? For this flea-ridden hotel? You can’t be serious.”
“Flea-ridden? Now you listen here little missy, if there are fleas here your friends brought them, and left them, here.” The larger woman advanced on Vanessa, who stood and balled her hands into fists. It wouldn’t be the first time she’d been in a fight. If the witch would just get close enough she’d take a whack at her.
Win stepped in between the two ladies just as Ben entered the room.
Vanessa assumed correctly that this was the sheriff. And judging by the similarities between the newcomer, and the man already in the room, she assumed they were brothers.
“Sheriff, this is all a big misunderstanding, if I could…”
The sheriff held up his hand.
“Win, would you keep an eye on this young lady while I talk to Miss O’Brien?” The two exchanged a look and Vanessa frowned when the one named Win mouthed, “this will work,” to the sheriff.
She wasn’t sure what he meant, but she knew that whatever it was, she wasn’t going to like it.
**********
Win closed the door and turned toward Vanessa. She was a pretty woman, that was for sure. Petite, with long blond hair that hung around her shoulders and beautiful blue eyes. He figured that Miss O’Brien had pulled her from bed when she’d found the others gone because the woman was still wearing a dressing gown.
“Miss Trump, is it?”
“I’m not going to your bed, so you can just forget it. I may be an actress but I have standards.”
“I see, and I don’t fit them.”
Vanessa looked at Win and shook her head.
“No, you’re fine in that department. But I don’t trade my body for money.”
“I’m happy to hear that. I have something else in mind. Something that will get you out of your current predicament.”
Win watched her smooth her hands over her gown and then lift curious eyes to him.
“I’m listening.”
“I need a wife.”
Vanessa shook her head and threw up her hands in exasperation.
“What part of our earlier conversation did you not understand?”
Win shook his head and sat down next to Vanessa. She eyed him wearily.
“Miss Trump. I’m in a bit of a sticky situation myself. I don’t want you to have sex with me. I just want you to pose as my wife while my maiden aunt is in town. If you do this, I will pay Miss O’Brien the entire amount that she is owed, and you will be free and clear.”
Win smiled to himself. He could see the wheels turning in the young woman’s head.
“You are certain there will be no sex involved.”
His eyes widened and he nodded. She was appealing, that was for sure. She had pouty little lips that were perfect for kissing, and other things. It might be hard not to have thoughts of her snuggled beneath him. But this was a business arrangement. This, and only this, would keep Matty from forcing him, or more appropriately guilting him, into moving to Boston.
“What is your name, sir?”
“Winthorp MacAllister II. My friends call me Win.”
“Mr. MacAllister, I warn you, I want this arrangement in writing, and witnessed by the sheriff, Miss O’Brien, and any lawyer that is in town.”
“I can get Mr. Daniels, one of two lawyers in town, to draft the agreement this morning and we’ll sign it this afternoon. My aunt may show up at any moment, so I want you moved into my house as soon as possible. I’ll have Wayne Black deliver your bags.”
“And you’ll pay Miss O’Brien?”
“I will pay her after my aunt leaves town, which may be as long as a month. Does that arrangement sit well with you?”
Vanessa thought for a moment and Win thought his stomach would fly away from his body. This woman was his only hope. He needed her to agree to this.
Finally, she sighed deeply and nodded. Then she bit her lip and gave him a look that almost broke his heart.
“I’m not sure Miss O’Brien will wait that long for her money.”
“You let me worry about the money. Ben is explaining the situation to Miss O’Brien right now. Everything will work out fine, you’ll see.”
He patted her hands, the warmth from her skin blending with his own. She was soft, and her hands were tiny. Win felt a stirring in his lower region. He fought it back and tried to think ugly thoughts, like losing everything to Matty’s demands.
“Mr. MacAllister, I…”
“Win.”
“Excuse me?”
“If we are married, Vanessa, you must call me Win.”
“Of course, forgive me, Win.” Vanessa steeled her shoulders. “I want my own bedroom.”
“I’m sorry, darling, but that is out of the question. What sort of newlyweds sleep in separate bedrooms?”
“Lots of them.”
“Not when one of them is me, I can assure you. You will play by my rules, Vanessa, or you will go to jail.”
Vanessa exhaled a defeated sigh.
“Fine. But I’m warning you…”
The door opened and Vanessa clamped her lips together. Win’s brother, the sheriff, stood in the doorway.
“I do have one concern. What if someone recognizes her from the play?”
“Impossible,” Vanessa answered. “I was wearing a wig and padding. My character was an older woman.”
Win nodded, then guided Vanessa into the drawing room of the hotel. He smiled at Miss O’Brien, who shook her head and frowned at Vanessa. The woman then turned a charming smile on Win.
“Have a good day, Mr. MacAllister. And may I be the first to say congratulations on your marriage?”
“Thank you, Miss O’Brien. My wife and I are very happy.”
Win put his arm around Vanessa’s shoulder and pulled her close. “Aren’t we, dear?”
“Very happy, darling.”
**********
“Tell me one more time what my middle name is.”
Vanessa slumped back onto the settee screamed in frustration. “Why? I’ve already told you fifteen times that it’s Jacob. Jacob. Jacob. Jacob!”
“My date of birth?”
“July 1, 1854, right here in wonderful Mac’s Crossing. Your mother’s name was Beverly. Your father’s name was Winthorp. You have four brothers, Ben, who is the sheriff; Rob, who manages your parent’s cattle ranch; Joshua, who is editor of the newspaper; and Corbin, who owns the local store.”
“Very good. What is my favorite food?”
“Leaping lizards? Mr. MacAllister, I…”
“No! Never call me that. I am Win, do you understand? Say it, Win!”
“Win! It’s been a long day. I’m hungry and we need to take a break. After dinner you can drill me some more.”
“Vanessa, I think you underestimate the gravity of the situation, for both of us. If my aunt asks you these questions and you give incorrect answers, the game is over. I will be forced to leave my home, and you will go to jail.”
“Oh believe me, Win, I understand. I’ve been an actress for the past fifteen years. I portrayed Juliet in New York City. I know how to play a part.”
She stood and cocked her head at him. “Please, can we break for a little while and have something to eat?”
Win felt a grumbling in his stomach. He looked at his watch and his eyes widened.
“I didn’t realize it was so late. I apologize. Before we eat, though, tell me what types of foods I love.”
“You like beans and cornbread, not to mention meat from your brother’s ranch.”
“Very good. I apologize, Vanessa. This whole situation makes me very nervous.”
“You needn’t be worried on my account, Win. I promise you that I will be perfect in everyway.”
She batted her eyes and Win smiled.
“If I hadn’t just spent the last six hours with you yelling at me every other minute, I might just think you like me.”
“No, husband, I don’t like you. I love you.” She rose up on her tiptoes and kissed his cheek.
“You’re very good, Vanessa. Shall we go eat?”
In the dining room, they found the table set and cornbread waiting. The cook, who was in a bit of a snit that her dinner had set for so long, brought in a beef stew.
“Oh look, darling, one of your favorites.”
Win held out a chair. Once Vanessa was seated, he took his own chair.
“Now, we need to work on the story about how we met. I’m thinking…”
“I’m thinking a nice quiet meal would help our digestion. This really is delicious, um, …” Vanessa bit her lip and looked at the cook.
“Mrs. Wallings, her name is Katie Wallings. We’ve been over the staff. How could you forget their names?” Win rolled his eyes and slammed his fist down on the table. He knew his voice was louder than it should be, but things were getting serious, and the hour grew late.
“Forgive me, Win, it’s a lot to take in on the first day. I’m only human, you know.”
“There may be only one day. What happened to the consummate actress who could memorize her lines?”
“She left on the afternoon train after being yelled out for hours on end. At least with a play I had time to memorize lines! I did not sign up for this.”
“You did. I have the paper right here.” Win pulled the signed agreement from his pocket and shook it at her.
“To portray your wife, yes. But not for your abuse. Do not yell at me again.”
“Do you have another idea for reinforcement?”
“Kindness? You’ve heard the term kill them with kindness.”
“Mrs. Wallings, please leave us.”
Win watched his cook leave the room. Then he turned to Vanessa.
“I realize that we are both under a great deal of stress, and yes, I have heard your phrase. But I have also heard the phrase ‘spare the rod and spoil the child.’ In this case, I believe it would be proper to say, ‘spare the rod and spoil the actress.’ Do you understand my point?”
“You wouldn’t dare!”
“I would, if I thought it would make us successful. And by the look on your face, I’m thinking I could be right. One more slip up and I’ll take you, the great American actress, over my knee and tan your little bottom.”
“You are a barbarian! You have no hold over me, and if you try to spank me I will fight you, I promise.”
“I promise you, wife, that your bottom will be so sore you won’t be able to sit on the stage long enough to get to Denver.”
Vanessa stood and threw her napkin on the table.
“I will leave immediately!”
“Will you? The stage arrived half an hour ago. It leaves again in the morning. Perhaps you can catch it before my brother throws you in jail.”
A loud knocking on the front door startled them both. Both of their faces were red with anger. They stood and stared at each other as they heard the front door open, and Ben’s voice in the foyer.
“Oh, there’s Ben now. Perhaps he can take you directly to jail.”
Vanessa stomped her foot groaned in frustration. “You are an arrogant, insensitive bastard!”
“Am I interrupting something?”
“No!” Win and Vanessa screamed the word at the same time.
“All right. I just came by to tell you that Aunt Matty left Boston last Sunday. She will probably be here in two to three days. Which means you two need to get busy.”
“We are,” Win said, his angry gaze trained on Vanessa.
“Well, I can see that you are, so I’ll leave.”
Win said goodbye at the same time Vanessa said, “no, stay.”
The room grew quiet and Ben looked between the two.
“Right. I’ll be leaving. I just wanted to warn you.”
When no one answered he quickly walked out of the room.
“Do we have an understanding, Vanessa?”
“No, Mr. MacAllister, we do not. Threaten to spank me one more time and I will leave, signed agreement or not.”
“Fine, then I suppose I must show you that I’m serious. Let’s go upstairs, shall we?”
Vanessa looked panicked. Her gaze darted to the door as if to judge how quickly she could run after Ben.
“For all intents and purposes, Vanessa, you are my wife. I’m afraid that I have no choice but to spank you now, to emphasize the point that I am very, very serious about this.”
Vanessa didn’t hesitate; she rounded the table and took off for the door at a run. Win gathered her in his arms and slammed the dining room door.
“Fine, we’ll do it here.”
She flayed her arms and legs against his, her fists pounding against his arms as he carried her back to the table and sat down in one of the chairs.
He pulled her across his lap and began to lift her skirts above her waist.
“Stop that! You have no right.”
“I’ll be easy on you this first time, Vanessa, and spank you over your bloomers. You need to remember, though, that this will not happen again. Next time you will be spanked on your bare bottom.”
“How dare you!” Jessica let out a loud yelp as Win’s hand came into contact with her behind. He slapped her ass again and she kicked out in outrage.
“Stop that!”
“Name my brothers, in order.”
He slapped her ass again and Vanessa screamed in frustration.
“Where is the staff?!”
“They know better than to interrupt when the door is shut. Now answer me!”
Win delivered three more slaps and Vanessa took a deep breath.
“Robert, um…” Her breathing came in short gasps.
Win delivered several more sharp slaps and said, “Their names, in order.”
Vanessa took several deep breaths, and then said quickly, “Ben, Robert, Corbin and Josh.”
Win delivered four more slaps, two to each cheek, and then stood Vanessa on her feet.
“Next time, Vanessa, your spanking will not be so easy.”
Vanessa pounded her arms against his chest.
“I’m leaving. I won’t stay here!”
Win grabbed her wrists and pulled her close to his chest.
“You’re not even crying, so don’t tell me that it hurt. It did motivate you, though. You remembered the names, in order. I’ll have to remember that over the next few days. Now, do you understand the seriousness of the situation?”
“Yes.” Vanessa’s voice was soft.
“Good. I don’t want to have to do this again.”
“Trust me, I don’t either.” She pulled away from him and ran from the room. Win sat down and ran his fingers through his hair. This wasn’t turning out as he’d hoped. Maybe he should just lay things on the line when Matty arrived. He sighed deeply. It was too late now. The wheels were in motion, and they had to follow through.
He hoped his windfall didn’t turn into a tornado.
Chapter Two
The next morning, Vanessa fumed as she paced the floor in her bedroom. When she’d arrived yesterday, she’d talked Win into her own room until his aunt arrived. Now she was glad that she had. She’d barely slept, not from the pain from the spanking, because it really hadn’t hurt that much, but from the anger that resulted from the punishment.
How dare he spank her? Did he think that was going to make her remember everything better? The pressure on this “job” was worse than anything she’d ever done while taking part in a play.
True, after being taken over his knee she’d remembered his brothers’ names, and in order, but what did that prove?
“Damn him!” She stomped her foot and then let out a yelp of anger. She had to let him know that yes, he had her over a barrel because of the hotel bill, but she wouldn’t be his submissive little wife. Her mother acted that way with her current paramour, and there was no way Vanessa was following in her footsteps.
The wheels in Vanessa’s brain went round and round. She’ be a good little girl until his aunt arrived. She’d learn her lines and behave herself. But once Auntie was here she’d give him hell. He wouldn’t dare spank her with his aunt in the house.
Or at least she thought he wouldn’t. She didn’t think he’d do it last night, either. It surprised her to no end when he’d upended her over his lap and slapped her behind. At least he’d let her keep her underclothing in place. He said that wouldn’t happen in the future.
Just let him try to spank her bare bottom! She’d remind him of their agreement of no sex. To her, being naked across his lap could only lead to trouble. She paced back and forth and considered her options.
Really, there weren’t any. Damn Wiley for choosing to stop in this little hole in the wall. Right now, he and the other members of the troupe were probably in Denver, enjoying themselves and eating fine foods. She was stuck here, paying for their debt. All because she’d turned Wiley down.
Vanessa leaned her head against the window frame and stared into the wide-open spaces of Colorado. The mountains could be seen to the west. They were so beautiful, with their snow-covered peaks.
Her plan for this trip had been simple. She’d taken the job to get out of New York City. There was no way she was going to be like her mother. Once Vanessa’s father had died, her mother had gone from man to man, seeking the perfect protector. Vanessa didn’t want that for herself. She’d planned on going with the cast to California, where she wanted to live near the ocean and enjoy the sunshine she’d heard so much about.
Instead, she’d been dumped in the middle of nowhere. She closed her eyes and counted to ten. After she was done with her “job” here, she would go to Denver and find a real position. Then after a few years, when she’d saved up enough money, she’d go to San Francisco and see the ocean.
But first, she had some payback because of her spanking. She stood and squared her shoulders. She hoped that Win enjoyed his sleep last night, and for the next few days, because when his aunt got here, all hell was going to break loose.
**********
“I hope you slept well.” Win smiled at Vanessa as she walked into the room. He rose from his spot at the table and held out her chair.
“Very well, thank you.” She sat down and put her napkin in her lap. He was happy to see she had manners. It would be easier to convince Matty that she belonged in the family. She smiled at him and he felt his stomach tighten.
It had been hard to sleep last night with thoughts of her dancing in his head. The idea that she was just down the hallway was hard to handle. He’d wanted to go and check on her, even though the spanking hadn’t been that hard. He didn’t know what had come over him.
He’d just remembered his father’s words about discipline, and how to reinforce it. It had worked, obviously, but Vanessa had been angry. Very angry. From the looks of her this morning she was still angry.
“About last night…”
“Please, let’s not discuss it.”
“I think we should. I’m sorry if you’re upset, but…”
“Mr. MacAllister, what you did was wrong.”
“Was it? You’re my employee, Vanessa. As such you are subject to disciplinary action. And my name is Win.”
“When one of your tellers miscounts his money, do you take him over your knee? Or do you use a belt on them?”
Win narrowed his eyes. “My tellers do not have my entire future in their hands. I thought you understood that.”
“Fine, we’ve discussed it. Let’s move on.”
Vanessa poured herself a cup of coffee and smiled at the cook, who put a plate of food in front of her.
“Thank you, Mrs. Wallings.”
“You’re welcome, Mrs. MacAllister.”
Win smiled to himself at the exchange. This just might work. Vanessa hadn’t flinched when she’d been called Mrs. MacAllister. Of course the woman was an actress, so she was used to playing roles and answering to different names.
“So what do we do today, Mr. MacAllister? Do I get to learn all about your childhood and your growing up here?”
“Well, we do need to exchange some information about that yes, and I need some from you, too. My aunt will ask questions and I would like them to be answered so that no suspicion is cast upon us.”
“I agree. The sooner this farce is over, the better.”
“I’m sorry you feel that way. I was hoping that, despite the circumstances, that you and I could become friends.”
“Really? Did you decide that before, or after, you spanked me?”
“Before.” Win took a swallow of his coffee and wiped his mouth. “Vanessa, you may be angry with me, but you can’t deny that your memory improved after I slapped your behind.”
He studied her as she took a bite of egg and slowly chewed. Her mouth was beautiful, with full, red lips. He wanted to lean over and kiss her. The thought crossed his mind to do so, and he wondered what her reaction would be.
“We need to practice kissing.”
Vanessa coughed, wiped her mouth and frowned.
“We said no sex.”
“We need to show some affection to each other, or this will never work. Kissing is a sign of affection that husbands and wives share everyday.”
“Not all of them.”
Win frowned, then shook his head. “I have to be at the bank this morning. I will be home this afternoon so that we can go over more information. I have sent notes to all my brothers inviting them to dinner tomorrow night and advising them of the situation. You will get to meet them before Matty arrives. Now, stand up so I can kiss you goodbye.”
“You’re so very romantic, darling.”
“I’m sorry.” He stood and offered her his hand. Her fingers felt small as she placed them in his palm. When she was standing, she stood on tiptoe and bussed her lips against his, their lips barely touching.
“There.” She started to sit, but he held her closely.
“Wait.” He saw the nervousness in her eyes as he stepped closer and cupped her face. “We need to kiss like we mean it.”
Her sharp intake of breath made him smile as he tilted his head and lowered his lips onto hers. She was soft and sweet and he flicked his tongue out to taste her. She moaned softly and the sound shot straight south, forcing a blood surge to parts of his body that he didn’t want to think about at the moment.
When the kiss broke, he kept her face close to him.
“Mr. Mac… Win.” She stepped back and lowered her head. Then she cleared her throat and stepped back. “Was that better?”
“That was delicious. We have to act as if we like each other, Vanessa, or this is never going to work. I’m going to kiss you again tonight, several times, so be ready.”
Her eyes clouded over with a feeling he couldn’t decipher. At first he thought it was anger, then desire. He voted for the latter, since he was now rock hard. She looked so beautiful and vulnerable. He cupped her face again and claimed her lips, gratified to feel them part slightly for just a second before she pressed them shut against his probing tongue.
“You’re going to have to let me in sooner or later,” he whispered. “Give me just a taste.”
His thumbs caressed her face. He leaned in again, but she shook her head and clasped his hands to free her face.
“You should go. You don’t want to be late.”
“Already the nagging wife,” Win laughed. “Very well, I’ll go. Make yourself at home and become acquainted with the house. Please add some feminine touches as you see fit. I have an account at the store that Corbin runs. Buy anything you like.”
She nodded and he moved to the door.
“Vanessa?”
When she turned, he noticed that her hands were shaking and that she clasped them together to hide it.
“Remember to introduce yourself as my wife to people that you meet.”
“How will you explain it when I’m gone?”
“I will be the grieving husband, whose wife left him and ran off to Denver. I’ll receive pity from the entire town.”
“And attention from every single woman in the parts, no doubt. What happens when these people tell your aunt that I only just arrived a few days ago?”
“You were living in Denver until the house was finished. I didn’t tell people I was married because it’s no one’s business. We’ll stick to that story.”
Win walked from the room before she could answer. He wanted to kiss her again, and getting out the door as fast as he could was the only way to prevent it. She’d been soft and sweet against him, and he wanted to explore further.
Having a “wife” was going to be a test of his willpower. He hoped he was up to the challenge.
**********
“I never would have thought to find something so nice here.” Vanessa fingered the lace curtains. As if realizing what she’d said, she clamped her hand over her mouth. “I mean, well…”
“It’s all right,” Corbin said, a smile on his face. “Normally we wouldn’t have something like this here. Mrs. Walker ordered them special for her house. Then she and her husband moved to Denver. So, I’m stuck with them.”
“Not anymore. I want them for the house.”
“Anything you say, sis.”
Vanessa laughingly shook her head. “That sounds strange, since I’m an only child.”
“Not anymore you’re not. You’re part of a large family now. You’ve got a husband, and four brothers who are going to take care of you.”
The idea of having a family, even a temporary one, made Vanessa smile. Corbin was as handsome as his brothers. She figured that the two she hadn’t met, Rob and Josh, were just as handsome. And none of them were married, which she thought was strange. Of course she knew that there probably weren’t a lot of single women in Mac’s Crossing.
“Thank you, Corbin. I’m very nervous about this.”
“You’re going to do just fine. Win’s not a bad guy, even if he can be a bit overbearing.”
Vanessa snorted, then tried to cover it with a cough. The feel of his hand against her backside flared up. Yes, he could be overbearing. But he could also be sweet.
She licked her lips as the memory of his kiss replaced the spanking. She’d never been kissed like that, ever. It had made her feel all gooey and warm, and she’d wanted him to do it again. Before he did, though, her brain had kicked into gear. He was kissing her so that he could fool his aunt into thinking they were intimate. He wasn’t kissing her because he wanted to. That had put a damper on her feelings.
“OK, we have the curtains, and we have a new dress for you. We just got this one in last week. There’s a seamstress in town who can make a few more, if you need them.”
“No, I have dresses. I would like that tea set, though.” She pointed to a beautiful porcelain set that was displayed in the window.
“Ah, another one of Mrs. Walker’s orders. I’ll have those things sent up to the house. Anything else?”
Before Vanessa could answer, the door opened and a tall woman stepped into the store. She was very pretty, beautiful even. Except for the frown on her face.
Vanessa smiled at her tentatively and the woman ignored her and looked at Corbin.
“How are you today, Nancy? Come to see the new dresses we got in last week?”
“Hello, Corbin. I’ve heard there were some new things in town.” She looked pointedly at Vanessa.
“Yes, there is. This is Win’s new wife, Vanessa. She’s just picking out some things for the house.”
“Then the rumors are true. How very interesting that you’ve been married for two months but are just now showing up in town.”
Vanessa put on her actress face. She threw back her head and laughed.
“Win insisted that I stay in Denver until the house was completed. He’s just so sweet, don’t you think?”
“Yes, I do.” Nancy’s words left little to the imagination and Vanessa wondered about her relationship with Win. If he had a woman that he cared about, why was he pulling this stunt for his aunt? Why didn’t he just use this woman to act as his wife?
The reason for it hit Vanessa square in the forehead and she stifled a grin by coughing into her hand.
“Yes, well Win and I fell in love the moment we set eyes on each other. He’s such a gracious and handsome man that I just couldn’t resist.”
Nancy’s forced smile turned down and her eyes narrowed. Vanessa knew that she’d hit the nail on the head. Nancy wanted a relationship with Win, but he didn’t want one with her. He’d forgotten to tell her this little tidbit at dinner last night, or at breakfast this morning. When Vanessa left town after Matty was gone, she was sure that Nancy would try to help Win get over his loss.
“Well, I insist that you come to my house for tea tomorrow. I live just a few blocks over from Main Street, on Oak. It will be a pleasure to welcome you to town.”
“Oh, I’m so busy with the house right now, that I don’t think I should stray too far.”
“Nonsense. Win will be happy that we’re making friends. He and I are very close.”
You mean you’d like to be. Vanessa’s brain went into overdrive to try and think of an excuse. When nothing came she nodded and then looked at Corbin, who shoulders were shaking in silent laughter.
“Four o’clock?”
Vanessa inclined her head in agreement and the woman left without ever answering Corbin’s question.
Vanessa made a face at Corbin and his laughter bubbled forth.
“Something tells me I should have tried harder for an excuse. I take it Win doesn’t care for her?”
“That’s an understatement. She wanted to help him decorate the house for when they were married, and he’d never offered, nor given her any indication, that they would be together, much less married. Can I sit back and watch while you tell him you’re having tea with her? I could use a good laugh.”
**********
The lacy curtains transformed the room from a dark, dreary affair into a light, breezy space. Vanessa stepped back to admire her handiwork. She smiled at Mrs. Wallings, who was handing money to the young men that Corbin had sent to hang the curtains.
“They look beautiful, don’t you think?”
“Very, Mrs. MacAllister. It’s amazing the difference that they make.”
“I wish you would call me Vanessa.”
“Oh, that wouldn’t be proper. We may not be in the big city, but we still have manners.”
“You call Win by his name. Won’t his aunt think it’s strange if you call me Mrs. MacAllister?”
“I hadn’t thought of it that way. I’ll ask him.”
“Phooey on that. If I’m his wife, then you’re my employee, too. I vote for Vanessa. All in favor say aye.”
“Aye.”
Vanessa wheeled toward Win’s voice. He was standing in the doorway, his shoulder leaning against the frame and a smile on his face.
“She’s right, Mrs. Wallings. It would seem awkward and forced if you called her Mrs. MacAllister.” His gaze wandered over the curtains. “Nice. I like it.”
“Thanks.” Butterflies took flight in Vanessa’s stomach. Seeing him standing there in the doorway reminded her of his kiss that morning. Would he kiss her again? “You said to make changes. I hope this is not too much. Corbin thought they would look nice in here.”
“Well, they do look nice. But I think Corbin was just trying to recoup some of the money he lost when the Walkers moved out on their orders. I hope that’s not all you bought.”
“No, I bought this tea set. And a dress. I hope that’s OK.” Vanessa bit her lip.
“Fine. I didn’t look at your wardrobe to see what you had. Perhaps we should do that tonight. I know that Corbin has more dresses that came in last week because he borrowed money from the bank to pay for them.”
His words about inspecting her wardrobe reminded Vanessa that she wasn’t his wife, but his employee.
“Go back tomorrow and find a few more womany things to set around. Lace things and such. That will add to the atmosphere here.”
“Of course. I’ll go before I have tea with Nancy.”
The air in the room grew heavy as Win stared at her.
“Excuse me?”
“Nancy Lise. I met her at the store and she asked me to come for tea. I thought it would look strange if I turned her down. You don’t want to hide me. Do you?”
“Of course not. For this to work, the town has to believe we’re married. Damn, this is turning into a huge mess.”
“You don’t think I can handle myself against her?”
“I didn’t say that, but she’s like a dragon lady. She’s very spoiled. She married her father’s top hand when she was eighteen years old, and he died several years later. Since then her father has dotted on her and given her everything she’s ever wanted. He built her a house in town. After she set her sights on me, I felt very, very pressured to marry her. I’m sure she’ll try to rip you to shreds.”
“Then it will be practice for your aunt. Remember, Win, I’m an actress. I can act any part that I want to.”
“What if she leaves you in tears?”
“How can she? We have a business arrangement, not a marriage. All I have to do is remember that. I can separate my emotions from business. Nothing she can say will hurt me.”
The words were barely out of Vanessa’s mouth when she mentally slapped herself. If they only had a business arrangement why had she been so moved by his kiss that morning? It was just because it was the first time. When she kissed him again, it wouldn’t bother her. She wouldn’t feel that tingly feeling in her toes.
“You’re right, of course.”
An awkward silence filled the room. After what seemed like hours, Win shook his coat off and laid it across the back of a chair.
“Why don’t we go and look at your wardrobe. I don’t know exactly what Corbin has at the store, but if you need something we’ll have a day or so to send to Denver.”
“You’re the boss.”
“Hum, it’s nice that you remember that. Do you remember my brother’s names?” Win gave her a wicked grin and the tingly feeling that she’d had that morning returned. As the day had progressed, she’d thought less and less about the spanking he’d given her last night. Now there it was again, full and center.
“If I don’t?”
“Perhaps you need another reminder. Remember, the next one will be on your bare bottom.”
“Ben, Rob, Corbin and Josh.”
“Good.” He nodded but he look on his face was not a happy one.
“You’re disappointed that I knew the answer. Why?”
“Because, I think I was looking for an excuse to spank you again.”
Her stomach met the floor.
“Well, I’d rather not repeat the incident. It wasn’t enjoyable.”
Was it? Surely the feelings had been anger and rage, not anything else. Not excitement at being taken over his lap, of being so close to him, of feeling his body pressed against hers.
The only way to really figure that out was to give him another excuse to spank her and she didn’t want to do that, did she?
“Shall we go upstairs?” His voice was deep and Vanessa nodded.
She waited on the stairs while he told Mrs. Wallings that they wouldn’t want dinner until later.
They’d stored her clothing in the wardrobe in his room, thinking that if his aunt arrived early, it would look strange to be moving her things to his room.
Win took a seat in a wingback chair near the window while Vanessa brought out dress after dress for his approval. He gave a nodding approval to all of them, his smile never faltering.
“Very nice. I especially like the red one. Wear that one on Matty’s first night here. It will set off your hair beautifully.”
“Very well. Any other suggestions?”
“Yes, wear the green one tomorrow when you’re at Nancy’s house.” His voice hardened and Vanessa frowned.
“If you don’t trust me to be alone with people why don’t you just chain me to you desk at work. That way you could monitor my behavior all day.”
“That’s uncalled for, Vanessa. I only want you to put your best foot forward.”
“No, you only want to control me.”
Vanessa felt her heart race. What was she doing? She could tell that he was getting angry. Why was she provoking him? What was it about this man that brought out the worst in her?
A thought struck her and she quickly dismissed it. Then she allowed it to creep back into her mind. Did she want him to spank her again? Had she actually enjoyed the contact?
She swallowed hard and then put her hands on her hips.
“What if I don’t want to wear the green one tomorrow. Perhaps I will wear the lavender dress. Or maybe the blue one. Or maybe the red. All of them look very nice.”
Win narrowed his eyes, and then he smiled.
“You’re trying to provoke me. Why?”
“Because, I may be your employee but I won’t allow you to run roughshod over me. I am a grown woman who has lived on her own for more than ten years. I won’t be told how to dress.”
“You’ll wear the green one, Vanessa.”
“If I don’t? Will you spank my bottom again?”
“I will. This time, however, I won’t be so lenient with you. I will spank your bare ass, and you will receive more than just a few swats.”
They were standing inches away from each other. Vanessa could feel his breath against her skin. She’d been surprised when he’d crossed the room but she’d refused to back down.
What was she doing? What had happened to her carefully thought out plan from this morning? She was supposed to be good and go along with everything, then cause him troubles once his aunt arrived.
“The blue one, Vanessa.”
“We shall see.”
The silence in the room seemed to snake around the both of them. When Ben’s yell of hello came from downstairs they both jumped.
“We’re up here,” Win answered.
They moved apart before Ben appeared in the doorway.
“Hey, can I stay for dinner? I’m just a poor starving bachelor!”
Vanessa laughed. “Of course you can, brother dear. You’re welcome at any time. Isn’t he, darling?”
“Of course.” Win offered Vanessa his arm and they went downstairs. As they settled at the table, Vanessa knew there was no way she was wearing the green dress tomorrow. She couldn’t wait to see his reaction.
Chapter Three
Vanessa stepped into the bank as if she were stepping onto the stage. She looked left, then right, and finally trained her eyes behind the cage where she could see Win talking with another man. They were deep in conversation and she knew that he didn’t see her.
She smoothed down her skirt and smiled at the clerk.
“Hello, may I help you?” He smiled at her and she knew that he was appreciative of her looks.
“I’ve just stopped by to see my husband.”
Understanding dawned and the clerk thrust his hand through the bars.
“Phillip Martin. So very nice to meet you, Mrs. MacAllister. May I say how happy we all are about your marriage to Win. I hope you and he are very, very happy together.”
“Why thank you, Mr. Martin. That’s very nice of you. Would you tell my husband that I’m here?”
“Win, oh wait, it looks like he’s already seen you.”
But Vanessa already knew that. She and Win had locked gazes the minute Phillip had turned toward him, Win had looked up and seen Vanessa. He’d smiled broadly, then his smile disappeared as his eyes lowered to her dress. A sardonic smile appeared on his face and he shook his head as he moved toward his wife.
“Darling,” she said as he kissed he on the cheek.
“Sweetheart, what a surprise.” He held her close and whispered, “Are you colorblind?”
“Why thank you, darling. I know how much you love red.” She playfully patted his shoulder. “I just wanted to stop by and say hello since I was in town. I hope you don’t mind.”
“Of course not.” The smile was plastered on his face and Vanessa giggled. She knew that she’d regret egging him on, but she hadn’t been able to resist. She’d let him know that although she was an employee, he couldn’t control her totally.
He introduced her to three more clerks, each one more polite than the next. The whole time he kept a tight grip on her arm, and a fake smile plastered on his face.
For her part, Vanessa laughed and giggled. She thought it incredibly funny that he was so upset just because she’d worn a dress different than the one that he’d picked out. When they’d made the rounds and she’d met everyone in the bank, he guided her to his office and shut the door.
“You deliberately disobeyed me.”
Vanessa’s laughter filled the room.
“It’s just a dress color. The style is practically the same.”
Win stood near the doorway, his hands on his hips and a smile on his face.
“If I didn’t know any better, I’d think you set out to see what kind of a rise you could get out of me.”
Vanessa returned his grin. “You, dear Win, should be an actor. You’re very good at reading people and the performance you just put on for you staff, even though you were furious with me, was marvelous.”
“Why thank you, my darling. I hope to put on another splendid performance tonight, when I remind you who takes orders from who in this arrangement.”
“Oh I can hardly wait. This time, however, I will be ready for you. You won’t find me as complacent as I was the other evening.”
She laughed loudly and Win did the same thing.
“We shall see.”
“I must be going, husband dear, or I will be late for my tea with Nancy. Do you wish for me to deliver a message?”
Vanessa moved toward the door. Win stood in front of it, his arms crossed in front of his chest. He looked like he was holding back laughter.
“Do I amuse you, Win?” They were standing toe to toe now, Vanessa looking up into Win’s dark eyes.
“Amazingly enough, yes. I should be very angry with you. That dress calls attention to your beautiful figure, and frankly, I don’t want every man in town looking at you.”
His words hit Vanessa square in the chest. She felt the breath quickly leave her lungs, and her inability to draw another one in frightened her.
“What?”
“It’s why I didn’t want you to wear the red dress. I’m selfish. I wanted it to be for my eyes only.”
He traced his thumbs over her lips, starting in the center and moving out.
“Then you are an even better actor than I give you credit for, because you’re either lying to me right now, or you’ve hidden your feelings very well. Which is it?”
“You tell me, which do you think it is?”
Vanessa’s breath, which had just seconds ago starting going in and out of her lungs again, left her mouth in a whoosh as he lowered his lips to hers. As he’d done the first time, his tongue traced her lips. She melted into him and opened her mouth, just as he pulled away from her and opened the door.
“Win? You didn’t answer my question.”
“I will tell you tonight,” he said softly.
“You’re gong to make me wait?”
“Oh yes, I am.” He stopped her in the doorway and kissed her cheek. “I’ll bring the carriage over to Nancy’s house just after five to pick you up. Behave yourself.”
“Maybe I will, maybe I won’t.”
“Hum…” Win’s grin widened. They stared at each other until someone in the other room cleared their throat.
“Mr. MacAllister? Mr. Grossman needs to speak to you about a loan for his spread.”
With his eyes still trained on Vanessa, Win replied, “Have him wait in my office, Phillip. Vanessa, I’ll see you after the bank has closed.”
“Win!” Vanessa’s eyes widened in disbelief.
“Phillip, will you escort my wife to her carriage, please?”
The clerk ran to Vanessa and offered his arm. She took it and gave Win an exaggerated frown.
“You’re terrible.”
He answered with a grin, and then disappeared behind his closed door.
**********
Win halted the horses in front of Nancy’s house, set the brake on the carriage and stepped down.
His afternoon had been a great deal of fun as he imagined Vanessa’s thoughts drifting to their afternoon tryst. He hadn’t meant to tell her the truth, but when he’d seen her standing near the teller’s cages the blood had left his brain and gone straight to his crotch. She was the most beautiful woman he’d ever seen.
When she’d laughed, her face had lit up and he’d almost lost control. He’d wanted to take her into his office and make love to her. The joking manner in which she flaunted the fact that she’d disobeyed him had just pushed him further.
The only thing that had stopped him totally was the fact that he’d promised her there would be no sex. That particular oath was going to haunt him, and make him very uncomfortable physically, while she was living in his house.
He climbed the stairs to the wrap-around porch and knocked on the door. His eyes widened when Nancy herself opened the door. This wasn’t like her. Usually she sat and let her servants do all the work. Not only that, but she wasn’t dressed as if she were set for a night at the opera.
“Hello, Winthorp. Come in, come in. I’ve just been talking with your lovely bride.”
Win took off his hat and stepped inside.
“Nancy. You look lovely today.”
“Why thank you. Won’t you have some tea with us?”
“Thank you, no, we need to get home. Aunt Matty’s coming from Boston, and should arrive tomorrow. I want to make sure that everything is ready for her.”
“Well, Vanessa is a lovely woman. You’re very lucky to have met her. I’ve never known you to be the theater type, though.”
A stab of panic pierced Win’s heart. How had Nancy figured out that Vanessa was an actress? Then he remembered that he and his “wife” had met at a production they were both attending. It seemed like a good idea when they’d come up with it. It was close to the truth, since Vanessa worked in the theater, and it would make fewer things for her to have to memorize. He didn’t consider the fact that he’d have to remember that they were both watching the performance, instead of her acting in it. He sucked back in a shaky breath and grinned.
“Just lucky on that day, I guess.” The minute the words were out of his mouth, Win felt guilty. The smile stayed on Nancy’s face, but her eyes turned sad.
“I’m sorry, Nancy. I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”