Special Smashwords Edition
The Wedding Deal
by
Marie Kelly
This book is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents are either the product of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, or to actual events or locales is entirely coincidental.
The Wedding Deal
Special Smashwords Edition
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Copyright © 2011 Marie Kelly. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this book, or portions thereof, in any form. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical without the express written permission of the author. The scanning, uploading, and distribution of this book via the Internet or via any other means without the permission of the publisher is illegal and punishable by law. Please purchase only authorized electronic editions, and do not participate in or encourage electronic piracy of copyrighted materials.
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Marie Kelly
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Chapter One
Tessa Jones had stepped gingerly from the taxi, feeling as her body had tensed once more being so close to the house that she had spent her early childhood years. Pausing for a second, she had taken in the well manicured lawns, the grand entrance filling her with foreboding before stealing herself to move forward. Lifting the large ornate knocker she had allowed it to fall, the dull sound bringing back so many memories. As the imposing door had opened smoothly she had smiled at the butler so familiar to her from her youth, his surprise at her presence so clear.
“Miss Tessa..........I’m not sure that your grandfather was expecting you”
He began, his voice unsure as he had stood blocking the entrance, the sound of music filling the air. With a reassuring smile she had carried on moving forcing the older man to step backwards.
“Sure he does Mr Smithers” she had grinned, seeing how the butler had smiled with relief, accepting her answer with a small nod before closing the door behind her.
Passing by a large mirror she had checked her appearance, scrunching up her nose playfully at her reflection. At 23, Tessa was stunning. Of slightly taller than average height about 5’9, with a wonderful figure, and the grace of the dancer she was. Her long legs were hidden beneath the cocktail dress she wore, but her curves were clear to see in the way the dress hugged her perfect body. Tessa had been loath to wear the revealing dress, but it had been the only one her friend Clara had found that was long enough for her, and as she had to see her grandfather, who was avoiding her, she had reluctantly put it on.
Placing her fingers on the handle of the large impressive door, she had taken a deep breath preparing to enter the dragon’s lair. Pushing it full open she had moved into the large room, the music suddenly so loud along with the sound of people’s voices and laughter. Her beautiful brown eyes, so large in her creamy oval face, had regarded the scene so seriously and focussed, as she had raised her chin proudly, her long black shining hair held up within a soft bun with tendrils which tapered down her long graceful neck.
Alexis Demitri, stood beside the beautiful blonde, who was simpering and flirting outrageously with him, her beauty marred by the huffy pouting glances she would send her grandfather’s way, as he encouraged her obvious behaviour. Frowning down at the soda water he held in his hand he had once more kicked himself at letting himself be tricked into the social event, knowing instantly what was going on, wishing himself anywhere but there. Before him John Jones had looked on at the couple, a small frown crossing his harsh features, not happy with the way things were going. Marcie did not usually let him down when it came to men and looking around he had smiled spotting a young girl in the crowd.
“Angela” he had cried out, his voice booming even in the large room full of sounds. The young child, no more than six, had made her way over, her displeasure at being pulled over clear on her face. He had tried not to roll his eyes at the scene being played out solely for his benefit, as his lips twitched watching it all unfold before him.
“Angela, aren’t you going to say hello to your favourite cousin?” John had cried out, the young girl moving over to the blonde beside him.
“Hi Marcie” the girl Angela had said, her voice lacklustre at best.
Marcie had leant down pulling the girl in closer to her, hugging her, her enthusiasm for the youngster so lacking in belief.
“Oh I do so love children don’t you Mr Demitri?” she had cooed while looking so ill at ease with the child in her arms, only the small girl Angela looking more uncomfortable being there.
Smiling noncommittally, he had only nodded, wondered how quickly he could escape the awful party, and these awful people, seeing as John Jones made to move in closer, no doubt to add more to the virtues of his granddaughter. However the young girl Angela had suddenly given out a yelp of joy, pushing herself free from the blonde Marcie, John Jones eyes fixing on someone, his body tensing, his features hardening.
“Tessa”, she had cried, running forward and throwing herself into the arms of another woman who had been walking towards the group. Alexis had turned to look at the newcomer, his mouth opening in surprise at what he saw.
Tessa had laughed as Angela, her young cousin had launched herself into her arms, lifting her in the air and spinning her once. Laughing she had placed her back down on her feet, having nearly knocked over several of the crowd in the large room, apologising and smiling as the other guests had smiled warmly back at her, their pleasure at seeing her so obvious.
“Hey button” she had cried, her wonderful mouth breaking into a large smile which had lit up her whole face as she grinned warmly at the small child, who was hugging her tightly.
“Wow, when did you get so big and strong?” she had chuckled leaning down to give her a hug back.
“Mummy says I can come to your classes this term” the little girl was excitedly telling her, pushing her hand deep into the young woman’s,
“She said that I could go to any dance school I wanted, and I want to go to yours” she had continued, her eyes and face shining happily as she chattered.
Tessa had grinned back down on her.
“Wow, you will be my star pupil” she had replied playfully tweaking the young girl’s nose and dropping a small kiss on her head.
Hearing her mother calling, Angela had looked disappointed to have to let go of Tessa’s hand, and had given her another hug before running in the direction of a smiling woman. Tessa had watched her for a second, very fond of the young girl before once more moving towards her grandfather, the smile dropping from her features to be once more replaced by a look of grim determination.
She had taken in the group, her main focus being the imposing figure of John Jones, his cruel face now glaring angrily at her. To his right she could see her Cousin Marcie fawning over a tall handsome man, her eyes registering him for a fleeting second, taking in everything about the man. He was well over six feet tall, broad shoulders, tapering down to a slim waist which allowed him to look so good in the expensive tailored suit he wore. His dark hair was neatly cut around his handsome face, but it was his eyes which had made the biggest impact on her. Dark, almost black eyes, surrounded by long lashes which leant him an exotic yet dangerous look were fixed on her. His gaze was unblinking and sure, and for some unknown reason, she had felt a small shiver of awareness pass through her, before pulling her eyes from him back to her grandfather.
Coming to a halt before the older man, Tessa had smiled at him, the smile not reaching her large lovely eyes, seeing the coldness reflected in his.
“What are you doing here?” he had asked the anger in his voice only barely controlled.
Tessa had pulled herself to her full height.
“Well I knew that you were having a party” she had breezed lightly.
“And I assumed that my invitation had just got lost...........so I just turned up..........didn’t want to make a fuss”
She had smiling over at Marcie, who was scowling seeing her there.
“Nice dress Marcie” she had offered brightly, holding back the laugh as her spoiled cousin had glowered back at her.
“There was no mistake, nobody invited you Tessa” her grandfather had spoken, his tone harsh, as she had looked back at him, her eyes suddenly very serious.
“Sure you did John” she had spoken softly, anger now in her voice, “when you wouldn’t answer my calls”
Suddenly very aware of where he was John Jones had taken her arm, looking at the man standing silently watching the scene unfold.
“Please excuse me Alexis, I need to talk quickly with my granddaughter” he had spoken, before roughly grabbing her arm to pull her away.
Tessa had turned towards him also.
“Yes, apologies” she had quipped in a tone that held no apology.
“But it was a pleasure meeting you Alexis” she had thrown, quickly seeing how his mouth had twitched as she was dragged away into a far corner.
As the annoying blonde had continued to try to hold his attention with her inane chatter, Alexis had watched as the two seemed to be locked in a fairly heated argument. John Jones had finally stepped away from her, his expression stony as he had moved back towards them, seeing how the woman, Tessa, had looked deflated. Her sassy composure now gone as she seemed to be trying hard to pull herself together, her hand stroking her forehead in defeat, as she had moved back towards the exit.
“Forgive, me Alexis” John had gushed.
“Unfortunate intrusion, but I’m sure Marcie here has been looking after you” he had cried, seeing how Marcie was indeed trying her best to drape herself over the younger man before him. Alexis had smiled politely, gently freeing himself from the blonde.
“Thank you John........ but I really must be going” he had spoken softly, his eyes still following the woman who had finally made it to the door.
“But...but...surely you can stay a little longer” the older man had blustered, the blonde pouting her sexiest, trying to once more wrap herself around his arm.
“No, really, I have a meeting I must attend” he had lied.
“But it was very kind of you to invite me” he had added, taking the older man’s hand and shaking it with a finality which brooked no argument, before nodding politely to the young woman who was looking confused at having not been able to make him stay within her arms.
“I will phone you tomorrow, to discuss that deal further” John Jones had muttered, seeing how Alexis Demitri’s expression had hardened.
“I see little point, John, I am not going to change my mind” and with that he had turned and made his way to the door he had seen the young woman leave from, breathing a sigh of relief to be free from the room. When he had arrived that night, he had not expected a party, having been invited over for an informal talk, and his face had hardened at the way John Jones had attempted to push his granddaughter so obviously on him.
Outside his eyes had scanned the foyer looking for the woman who had left before him, his brow furrowing not seeing her. As he had moved forward to check outside, to see if she was entering one of the many cars in the large driveway he had finally spotted her half hidden behind one of the many pillars which supported the upstairs landing whose balcony looked down on the magnificent hallway below.
Tessa leant against the hard marble pillar, her eyes shut tight as she bit her lip, a small tear coursing down her cheek, trying hard to pull herself together after her run-in with her grandfather. It had taken a lot for her to come that night, but she had hoped that she would have been able to appeal to his greedy side, knowing that he never wanted her to have her inheritance. However, she had underestimated his need to upset her more, the repercussions of this causing another tear to fall down her cheek, her mind going back to the previous day.
Tessa had never known why she had the sudden urge to visit Andrew Drake that day. Why she had turned her beat up car from heading to her small comfortable apartment to make the extra 3 mile journey to Andrew’s house. She had been exhausted, after a full day of dance rehearsals, with the midterm show only a week away. Tessa had been smiling to herself, remembering how cute the newest intake of baby dancers were in their costumes, which she had spent most of her nights creating, with the help of two of the other mothers, so happy with the way her life was going.
On driving up to the detached house, she had been surprised to not see the usual top of the range car in the driveway. With a frown, she had almost turned her car around, before smiling seeing a light flicking on in one of the downstairs rooms.
Well even if Andrew was not there, his wife Helena would make sure that she at least got a cup of tea, and looking forward to seeing her friend she had parked her car.
Knocking gently on the door, she had stood for some time before it was finally answered. At the door step Andrew looked nervous and dishevelled. He was dressed in his usual suit, but the tie was pulled down low and his hair was sticking up at angles, as though he had been pulling his fingers through it. Tessa had gasped seeing the wild look in his eyes and the way her friend, normally so well presented and slickly dressed looked.
“Andrew” she had gasped in shock.
“What’s wrong?”
She could see how he tried to put on a smile for her, his eyes still holding the bleak haunted look.
“Hey Tessa......I...I didn’t expect you”
“What’s wrong Andrew?”
She had continued her tone more insistent.
His eyes had darted around, refusing to meet hers.
“Look, it’s a really bad time now Tessa........Can you come back tomorrow?”
Looking hard at him she had moved forward, catching him unaware, as she had moved into the house.
“I don’t think so Andrew........not till I find out what is going on”
As she had walked into the living room he had tried to move ahead of her, but Tessa had been faster. Spotting the note on the table she quickly moved over picking it up and beginning to read it, her mouth opening wide with astonishment. As she had looked over at him she had seen the look on his face, seen the tears rushing to his eyes.
“Suicide?” she had breathed, her tone expressing the complete shock she felt.
“You are planning on killing yourself?”
Slowly Andrew had moved over to the sofa, sitting heavily on it.
Tessa had never seen him like this before. When they were growing up he had always been the self-assured one, the one who could think his way out of any situation, the joker of the group who had been able to find a silver lining in any cloud. When he had opened his own business and made a success of his small company, nobody had been surprised. When he had married Helena and had two beautiful children, it seemed to be the icing on his wonderful slice of life.
“I...I don’t understand Andrew...........why?” she had mouthed still in shock.
As he had burst into tears she had thrown herself into the seat beside him, taking him into her arms and feeling his body as it was wracked with loud sobs as he clung to her.
“Oh my God, Tess.......it is such a mess”
As he went quiet again she had held him, making soothing noises against his hair.
“Please tell me” she whispered softly “I want to help Andrew”
“I am going to end up in jail...........and there is nothing I can do about it”
He had finally replied, his voice miserable. Tessa had gasped
“Jail.............why... what happened?”
By now the sobs had subsided enough for him to look at her, his face almost emotionless, as he started to tell her the story.
Tessa had listened as he told her of his accountant, who had not filed tax forms for the past 5 years, hiding the fact from him with false documentation, keeping all the money for himself. He had fraudulently withdrawn most of the money from the company also, and only that week when the tax office had finally contacted him personally had the issue come to light. However, having also received a copy of the letter, his accountant had disappeared, taking with him all the money he had stolen. Looking so broken, Andrew had looked at her.
“Please Tessa just go, pretend you never came here tonight...........All the cheques had my name on them. I was so stupid........I should have been more careful what I was signing.......but I trusted him. We will lose everything..........the house….everything and I will end up in jail for years, at least if I’m.........”
His voice had cracked slightly.
“If I’m dead...........they won’t lose anything”
“Not lose............” Tessa’s voice had been angry.
“How selfish can you be...Helena will lose her husband, and two little kids will lose their father, how the hell can you think that they would be better off Andrew?”
She had seen the tears once more rise to his eyes.
“I don’t know what to do Tessa”
Holding his hands in hers she had looked into his eyes.
“What if you put the money back into the business before they check .................? Then hunt for this guy and get your money back”
He had made a small noise.
“I can’t find that much money Tessa and they are coming in to audit me in a week”
“How much money is it?” she had asked, seeing the defeated look in his eyes.
“A million” he had groaned softly.
“He managed to get a million...........how the hell do you not see that..... I can’t get my hands on that much”
Looking surer she had sat straight.
“I can get it for you Andrew..........I will get the money”
Looking at her in surprise he had shaken his head.
“No Tessa ..... I can’t let you........”
She had made a determined noise.
“So what are your choices, take my money or commit suicide Andrew..............do you really have a choice?”
For the first time he had looked at her with hope in his eyes.
“I would get it all back to you” he whispered, as she had smiled back at him.
“I know you will”
She had sat with him for the next hour until Helena had appeared, so happy to see her. Feigning tiredness she had then taken her leave of them, more sure now that she had stopped his thoughts of taking his own life.
Returning to the present she had savaged her lip feeling the tear slide down her cheek. Now how was she to help, she had given him hope, promised him the money, how was she to tell him that she could not deliver.
Moving silently behind her, Alexis had held out a handkerchief, causing Tessa to start in surprise, her eyes flying open.
“I thought you might need this” he offered softly, seeing as she had looked warily at him before taking the handkerchief from his hand, a small thank you lost as she dabbed her eyes, before pulling herself up proudly.
“Thank you Mr.........”
“Demitri” he had offered, his accent rich like honey as it trickled warmly down her back, making her shiver gently, before she had remembered how Marcie had only minutes earlier been draped around the handsome stranger.
“Please, don’t let me keep you, my cousin will no doubt be expecting you back” she had said, in an attempt to be free from the man who was inexplicably causing small tremors of awareness to pass through her, despite the misery she was experiencing.
“I was not with your cousin” he said softly.
“She seems the very friendly type though”
He had quipped, making Tessa chuckle.
“Yes, very”
She had returned, a small smile appearing on her face, before she had once more looked down.
“Well thank you for the hankie Mr Demitri” she had said, pushing herself forward.
“But I must be going”
Smiling charmingly, those dark eyes intent he had moved beside her.
“Then at least allow me to walk you to your car”
Tessa had smiled.
“I don’t have a car, I will call a cab” she had said firmly.
“In that case please allow me to drop you somewhere” he had continued, as a small furrow had appeared on her perfect brow.
“No that is not necessary”
She had returned, feeling as he had placed a hand on the base of her spine to gently direct her to the door, this simple action causing another tremor to instantly jolt through her.
“No really” she had said more forcefully.
“I’m sure that it would be out of your way, you have no idea where I live”
With a small grin he had continued moving, continuing to guide her as the butler had opened the door for them.
“Well you have no idea where I was going either, so who is to say that we would not have ended up in the same place?”
With a small laugh, Tessa had given in, suddenly just wanting to be as far away from the large house as possible, allowing herself to be guided to an expensive sports car. He had opened the door for her, ensuring that she was comfortably seated in the plush interior of the wonderful vehicle before moving to slide into the driver’s seat with the grace of a panther. His musky aftershave had filled the small space, making her fight the sudden desire to breath in the scent of him, causing her to once more frown at this sensation. He had smiled as she had given him her address, but not before she had caught the look in his eyes, surprised that she lived in the less affluent end of town.
As he had expertly manoeuvred the car out of the driveway, he had turned quickly to look at her.
“So, can I assume that your business with your grandfather was not satisfactorily completed?” he had asked, seeing how her mouth had set in a hard line at the mention of John Jones.
“You could say that” she had murmured noncommittally.
“Was yours any more successful?” she had asked, seeing how his mouth had twitched again.
“Actually, he was after something from me........not the other way”
Tessa had looked at the man beside her with a small frown on her face.
“It may not be my place to say this Mr Demitri” she had said carefully.
“And possibly not very loyal to my family, but I would be very careful when dealing with my grandfather, he can be .......... ruthless” she had added, her voice more than just a little bitter.
He had once more looked at her, his expression thoughtful.
“Perhaps there is something I can do to help”
He had asked gently, seeing how she had looked uncomfortable, before raising her chin more proudly, her voice firm.
“That is very kind of you Mr Demitri, but I am sure that everything will work out, but thank you anyway” she had added looking out of the window.
Deep down she felt sick, knowing that without the money from her grandfather there was nothing that she could do to help Andrew, suddenly feeling so tired.
For the remainder of the journey they had travelled in silence, until he had pulled his car to the side of the kerb outside the building of her small apartment. As she had pulled her seatbelt off, she had been surprised to see him do the same.
“Thank you for the lift Mr Demitri, goodbye” she had said her voice firm and polite, the implied message clear.
He however, had only smiled back at her.
“Perhaps you could make me a coffee”
Tessa had groaned inwardly, another of her grandfather’s friends hitting on her was something she could do without and she had shaken her head firmly.
“I don’t think so.....I have had a busy day, a bad evening and am just wanting to grab something to eat and then go to bed”
Alexis however had continued smiling the charm so easily falling from him.
“Well that sounds like a plan”
He breathed softly, as she had frowned at him.
“Excuse me”
She had said in disbelief, hardly believing the blatancy of the handsome man before her.
“Getting something to eat” he had smiled, understanding her interpretation of his statement.
” If you change quickly we could grab something to eat, I am more than a little hungry myself“
He had added, his dark eyes twinkling mischievously.
“I really don’t...”
She had begun.
“It is the least you can do, no coffee.......no food....I may not have the strength to make it home”
As he had looked at her with a mock hurt expression crossing his face. In spite of herself, Tessa had giggled gently, sighing softly, feeling her stomach rumble.
“Fine” she smiled.
“But it would be quicker if you waited here...... and safer for your car too” she had added, seeing the attention the magnificent sports car was attracting, as she moved nimbly from it.
In her apartment, she had quickly pulled on a green silk shirt which flattered her lovely eyes, matching it with a plain but classy black skirt which showed her legs off to their best. Finally she had pulled her long hair free from the restraining bun, allowing it to tumble down her back, securing it from falling over her face with an ornamental clip.
Quickly looking herself over, she had then moved back out of her apartment, and in less than 10 minutes was back down at his car. As she had slid back in beside him, he had whistled gently.
“Wow, I have never met a woman who could change so fast”
Tessa had giggled gently, a broad smile covering her wonderful face,
“I used to model when I was younger” she had grinned.
“Believe me you learn to change even faster in that line of work........”
Alexis had smiled back, seeing that she was indeed beautiful enough to be a model, before directing the car back into the traffic.
“I know a good restaurant nearby” he had said looking over at the woman beside him, seeing how she had nodded with relief.
“Thank you, I have an early start in the morning” she had said, hoping that her message was clear to the man beside her, seeing as he had given a small smile, his voice laughing, as he turned quickly to face her.
“Do you always give a time line for every date” he had asked his voice full of humour.
“Well we are not on a date” she had replied quickly, trying hard not to laugh in return.
“Quite right” he had grinned,
“So let’s just enjoy a meal between two very hungry strangers”
With that she had laughed nodding and flashing him a grin.
“OK”
Still smiling as they had pulled up to the restaurant of his choice, the best in the area she had noted, the valet taking the key from him as they moved into the wonderful space.
The concierge had recognised Alexis Demitri instantly, moving forward to welcome him and to personally lead them to one of the best seats in the house.
Tessa had giggled as they were finally left alone.
“Well it is good to be you” she had smiled, as he had laughed back with her.
“Oh yeah”
“So, my cousin Marcie seemed to be having a lot of trouble keeping her hands off you” she had said wickedly,
“She will be mad that you left, she’s not used to not getting what she wants”
She had seen how he had smiled.
“Mmmm......I was finding her ‘I’m so good with children’ act a little hard to swallow”
Tessa had laughed, “Marcie and children”, before looking thoughtful.
“Oh I’m sure she loves them”
Adding with a small glint in her eye.
“Although I’m not sure that she could eat a whole one”
Causing him to laugh out loud, the sound so pleasant to her ears, before he had become more serious, his eyes watching her thoughtfully.
“You, though I think do love children”
Seeing as Tessa’s eyes had softened slightly.
“Yes, kids are great, there is no falseness about them” she had added, stopping as their orders had been taken.
As they were once more alone, he had looked quizzically at her.
“What did the little girl Angela mean about dancing?” he had prompted softly, Tessa smiling.
“I run a dance studio for kids” she had laughed.
“Keeps me fit”
Across from her, Alexis seemed to be watching her with eyes which were accessing.
“I see”
His eyes sliding appreciatively over her,
“Yes, it certainly seems to, your boyfriend is a lucky man” he had added, as she had chuckled.
“That was the worst attempt to find out if I have a boyfriend I have heard in a long time” she had giggled, seeing as he had grinned back.
“Busted”
He laughed, while noticing that she did not answer, before turning the conversation around to ask more about him.
Tessa had found herself really enjoying the meal, the easy way that he seemed to make her laugh, his ease of charm and charismatic personality making her relax in his company, and as they had finished, she had felt almost disappointed.
As he had once more driven her back to her apartment and parked the car, he had turned to Tessa.
“I had a good time Tessa Jones” he said his wonderful dark eyes shining.
She had smiled back.
“Me too, thank you for the meal and lift Alexis, and now.......I really have to get some sleep or there are going to be about 200 little kids banging into each other on the stage tomorrow”
As she made to leave, he had captured her hand in his, pulling it to his lips and kissing her fingers gently, causing a tremor to pass through her once more, her cheeks colouring slightly.
“May I take you out for dinner tomorrow?” he said, his breath warm on her fingers, causing more pleasant sensations to run through her.
Tessa had looked shyly back at him before gently pulling her hand back.
“I’m sorry, I really am busy all week” she had replied softly.
“Oh oh, the brush off” he joked softy, as the corners of her mouth had twitched.
“Please don’t take it personally” she had smiled,
“I’m just really not interested in seeing anybody right now”
“Who said anything about ‘seeing’ he had quipped “I just feel that somebody needs to make sure you eat”
Tessa had chuckled.
“Thank you but no thank you Alexis” she had smiled, her tone firm.
“Good-bye....and thank you for the food and the lift” she had added, smiling before quickly pulling the door open and stepping from the car.
As she had moved up the steps to her apartment, his eyes had followed her until she had completely disappeared from view, a thoughtful look on his face.
Chapter Two
The next day was, as she had anticipated, bedlam. With only two more days before the final show of the year, Tessa had been busy from the moment she woke to the panicking phone call of one of her students.
The phone call she had made to Andrew that afternoon had seen her forcing more enthusiasm in her voice than she had felt, not prepared to give up on finding some way of raising the money for her friend. She had contacted her bank manager to see how much she could hope to raise based on her business and future inheritance, hoping that she could borrow on the strength of this money. However he had seemed less than enthusiastic with her proposal, Tessa once more feeling the sinking sensation, still determined to find a way.
The dress rehearsals had gone well and Tessa had been happy with the progress, with very few of her students not having the required accessories. Remembering the smallest children, their comical antics had brought a gentle smile to her face as she had finished clearing up the studio. The next day everybody was to meet at the show hall, Tessa once more thinking how they had been lucky to get such a great venue for the show, looking forward to the walk through. She was excited with how well the tickets had sold, her happiness marred only by the memory of Andrew’s situation.
As she had lifted her jacket and moved to turn the lights off in her bright studio, she had furrowed her brow hearing a tap at the door. Looking at her watch, she had been concerned at the lateness of the time, seeing that it was nearly nine o’clock and warily she had gone to the door asking who was there.
Hearing Alexis Demitri’s voice, she had scowled with annoyance. This man did not know when to take no for an answer. Unlocking the door, she had been suddenly very conscious that she was still wearing her dance leotard and tights, her hair pulled up in a pony tail which swung around her shoulders and back, only a long baggy jumper covering her.
He had stood leaning against the door jam, wearing a casual shirt and jeans, Tessa involuntarily flicking her eyes over him, once more feeling the tightening awareness of this man, once more so unsure why he made her feel that way. With an irritated look she had stood before the door, not wanting to give him the chance to move inside.
“Mr Demitri” she had said, her tone showing her displeasure at his presence.
“What can I do for you?”
While her body language was very clear about her displeasure, he had seemed completely oblivious and had smiled softly.
“Well as I suspected, you have I think not eaten”
Sighing softly she had shaken her head.
“And as I said yesterday Mr Demitri, I have no interest in going out for a meal with you”
To her surprise, he had only grinned.
“Yes you did.......and I am a man who always listens” he had laughed, pulling his hand from the side of the door jamb to reveal a large basket.
“So I figured that we could eat in”
Completely speechless, Tessa had only been able to stare at the hamper, as with another small grin he had moved forward into the studio.
“In here?” he had asked walked past her before she could even utter a word.
With a bemused expression, she had once more closed the door, following him into the main studio area, seeing as he had already started to unpack the picnic, laying out the rug and placing food and plates on the brightly coloured surface.
“Do you ever take no for an answer?” she had said, irritation in her voice, annoyed at how he had grinned boyishly.
“Nope”
Seeing how she had hovered over him, her lovely brow lined in a frown.
“Look Tessa, you can have this, which will save you having to make something when you get home, and I can even give you a hand finishing off cleaning up your studio”
He had grinned up at her as he lay down on the rug, his long lean body half lifted as he reached over for a sandwich. Lifting her hand to her mouth, she had tried to suppress the giggle which came out anyway, before moving over and sitting cross legged opposite him, reaching for one of the delicious sandwiches herself.
“Well you seem to have timed it perfectly to not have to help with the cleaning up “she had said in mock annoyance, laughing as he had thrown a hand over his forehead, wiping it in pretend relief.
“Yes.... my timing never fails” he had chuckled softly.
“But really Mr Dem...” she had started as he had interrupted.
“Please, Tessa I think that by our second date we should be on first name terms”
His hand had come up to silence her as she had blustered.
“We have never been on a date....Alexis”
Her face incredulous, as he had smiled.
“Much better......thank you”
As she had laughed, leaning over to help herself to another sandwich, she had looked back over at him.
He really was incredibly attractive; the shirt opened slightly giving her the strangest desire to lean forward and run her fingers along his broad chest. Dropping her eyes she had sought to hide the confusion in them.
“Now admit it........this is nice”
Smiling softly she had nodded gently.
“Like you said, saves me doing it when I have to go home”
Again, she had found herself enjoying his company, as he had shown such an interest in the show due to take place so soon now. Very quickly she had found herself once more relaxing in his company, moving to lie down along the blanket, as hungrily she had enjoyed the delicious picnic he had provided.
“Now did you really make this yourself?”
She had giggled, as he had grinned.
“Hell no......this is edible”
She had laughed back, as he made a big fuss of clearing away the picnic mess, having missed his chance to impress her with the hall. As he finished putting everything in the basket, he had moved it behind him, suddenly bringing the two of them very close together. Tessa had looked at him, this man she hardly knew, suddenly feeling shy as the air between them had filled with a strange tension, his eyes delving deeply into hers.
“I...I should” she had begun as his hand had reached over to gently cup her face, his eyes moving to her mouth as she had stayed still within his touch. Unconsciously she had moved her head slightly closer, all the encouragement he needed to bend down further, his lips meeting hers. The kiss was barely a whisper against her lips, but Tessa had felt herself melt, her hand moving to touch his chest, her fingers skirting over his skin, hearing a soft moan escape him, as his kiss had deepened. As his mouth had explored hers more deeply, she had explored his, their tongues caressing the others, the kiss so wonderful. She was not even aware of having moved her arms around his neck, nor of his having moved so that he was now half lying over her, one of his hands having moved around her waist to pull her tightly in against him. The only thing that seemed to matter was that this man not stop kissing her. Groaning throatily she had felt him hesitate, pull back from her, giving a small laugh.
“Well I guess that answers that question”
He spoke softly to himself, as her eyes had flickered open, realisation flooding through her, as she had pushed herself from him.
“We ...we shouldn’t have “she had began, as his hand had moved to silence her, his eyes suddenly very serious.
“Did you ever wonder why your grandfather was pushing your cousin on me Tessa?” he had asked looking deeply into her eyes.
She had looked back at him, her face confused at the question, still feeling the effects of her reaction to him as her whole body yearned for more.
“I just assumed that she was flirting with you” she had responded.
“My grandfather obviously wants something from you... so he wouldn’t mind. Marcie is a company girl at heart”
His lips had twitched gently.
“Well as true as that may be..........there was more to it than that”
Tessa had continued watching, not sure what he was talking about, still trying to regain her composure, hating the way he seemed so calm as if nothing had happened, while she felt her heart beating so loudly the noise was almost deafening.
“For several months now I have had somebody looking for a wife for me... I’m guessing your grandfather found that out”
Tessa’s eyes had opened in surprise.
“Why would you?”
She had begun as he had carried on.
“Because marriage is something that too many rush into with no real thought of what they actually want......I want a woman who understands my lifestyle...who will produce for me the children I want, and if all fails will not take away most of my business......or my children”
He had paused seeing the confusion on her face.
“I want somebody who understands what it is to be powerful and rich...as your grandfather is. Somebody who loves children, as you seem to do, and somebody who will respond well to me in bed........I think that we have just proven that would not be a problem”
Tessa had gasped.
”Are you asking me to be your WIFE?” she had cried in shock.
“Yes” he had stated, his tone matter of fact, as though her look of shock was of no concern to him.
“We I feel would make a good partnership, you would be the perfect wife for me and in return I would ensure that you had everything you needed”
Tessa had leapt to her feet.
“This conversation is over Mr Demitri” she had said stiffly, her voice full of contempt, seeing as he had risen slowly to his feet lifting his basket.
“I’m sure that your paid matchmaker will find the right brood mare for you soon”
“My matchmaker has found many ladies..........none of whom have met my requirements.........but in you I think I have found what I am looking for”
He had said patiently, as though talking to a small child.
“I think that you should seriously consider the offer Tessa”
“No, I don’t think so” she had cried, moving over to the door and pulling it open for him to leave.
“We are strangers Alexis..........I don’t have any idea about you.......nor you of me, your offer is both unwelcome and ill-conceived, and I would appreciate it if you would leave...........and not return” she had added firmly.
As he had moved passed her, he had stopped, his handsome face looking down on her, those dark eyes once more flicking over her face, causing fluttering to erupt throughout her entire body. Sensually he had lifted a finger to stroke her cheek, her skin tingling where he touched with a strange desire.
“You should know Tessa that I do not give up. When I make my mind up about something.....I usually win”
Gritting her teeth she had looked back at him, her expression determined.
“Well maybe losing will do you good”
Seeing as he had smiled.
“Mmmmm I even like your optimism” he had muttered dropping his head, and before she could move, gently kissing her mouth.
“We will continue this later” he breathed softly, although she was aware of the way his breath like hers was slightly ragged.
As he had moved out, she had closed the door, locking it behind him, leaning against the door cursing the way her body seemed to betray the longing for such a despicable man. That hateful, arrogant man, with the blackest most piercing eyes she had ever seen, groaning at the memory of his touch, as his soft caresses had driven her crazy with such a need for him. How his mouth felt against her, how his aftershave had enveloped her, and caused her to want to.......thumping her hand against the wood she had moved forward, angry at herself. Men like Alexis Demitri were no better than her grandfather she had thought her mouth twisting in a grimace, and people like her got hurt by those kind of men, better she stay far away from him, from his awful plan. With a small frown she had remembered his kiss, that soft sensual kiss, correcting herself....no he wasn’t like her grandfather she thought, there had been a warmth in that kiss, a warmth her grandfather was completely incapable of. No, Alexis Demitri was just misguided in his perception, part of her feeling sorry for his outlook, feeling pity that he would deny himself the joy of a loving relationship and bringing children into that environment.
Chapter Three
“Tessa, good to see you”
Tessa had been surprised that afternoon, to hear from her grandfather, even more surprised at how friendly he seemed to be towards her. She had thought him to be furious at her crashing his party however his tone had been almost jovial. When he had requested that she come by that evening to see him, she had agreed instantly. Almost unable to believe his turnaround, her heart had soared that she would be able to help Andrew after all.
Looking suspiciously back at him she had moved over to sit in the seat opposite forcing a smile on her face, not really enjoying being in his company.
“I’m glad you reconsidered John, I made you a very good offer, and........”
However, he had silencing her with a wave of his hand.
“First let me make it clear Tessa that I am not going to give you the million now for your inheritance”
Anger had flared instantly within Tessa, as she had leapt to her feet, hands balled held tight to her side.
“Why...why on Earth would you not and why would you bring me all the way down here if you weren’t?”
She had cried her voice high.
“I told you I would sign ANYTHING you wanted...you never wanted me to have my mother’s money anyway”
Her grandfather, John Jones had only stared back at her his expression determined as she had cried out, calmly waiting for her to be silent.
“I really don’t care about your paltry little inheritance Tessa”
He stated flatly, as he watched his granddaughter, seeing the look of frustration and fear on her face
“Then why?” she cried in confusion.
“Do you really think I bought your little story of needing the money to help your failing business?”
He had said.
“Your business isn’t failing; in fact you are doing quite well from what I hear”
Tessa had fallen silent, her eyes watching her grandfather warily.
“So I did a little digging, and guess what I found........your little friend Andrew has a visit from the auditors set for next week”
Tessa had closed her eyes groaning softly with pain.
“You bastard” she had whispered softly seeing the look of triumph on his face.
“What does it matter to you John what the reason is...just give me the money and I will give up all rights to my mother’s money”
“I don’t think so Tessa”
He had said a smile sitting on his lips, as she banged her fist on the desk.
“Why, for god’s sake why?”
She had cried in frustration, seeing the smile widen but not reaching his eyes which had flashed angrily.
“Because of that family” he had answered, understanding coming on Tessa.
“Oh my God, this is because of Andrew’s mother”
Her voice aghast seeing the small smile on his lips, a cruel sneer.
“I told her that I would have the last laugh, and that son of hers is a fool”
He replied, an evil glint lighting his small eyes. Silent for a few seconds Tessa had pulled herself together, hating the man before her.
“I will get a lawyer and have the money released myself”
She had finally declared softly the anger in her voice just barely contained. The sound of her grandfather’s laugh had made her grit her teeth as she glared down on him.
“According to MY lawyer, we could drag this out in the courts for at least six months – and I believe that the audit is next week.”
Tessa had reeled back in shock, the realisation that she would not be able to make good her promise to Andrew hitting her. The memory of his suicide letter had filled her mind, along with the gut thumping fear of what he would do when he found out.
There was no point arguing with her grandfather, many had tried and all had failed. John Jones had no kindness or charitable side to him, and trying to hold in the tears that she felt rushing to her eyes she had turned and started walking to the door.
“I do however have an offer for you, which if you agree to it will see your friend get his money tomorrow and leave your inheritance untouched, and if you don’t will see me making a phone call and having the auditor out tomorrow instead”
Tessa had stopped in mid stride, before turning and moving back to her grandfather her face a mixture of surprise and apprehension.
“Sit down Tessa”
He continued seeing how she had hovered indecisively beside him. Tessa speechlessly had done as she was told, her eyes watching the man before her.
“Alexis Demitri, he and I have been discussing a deal for quite some time, but he has proven...difficult”
He said his mouth tightening.
“Smart man”
Tessa had added, unable to hold back the comment, knowing how ruthless her grandfather was in business deals, knowing the underhand techniques he had used to in some cases to destroy other businesses and knowing that he was not bluffing about Andrew. She had seen the angry glint in his eye as he had continued.
“I need certain mineral rights that only he can give me access to, but let’s just say that he is smarter than most”
She could hear in his voice an almost reluctant respect for the man.
“As fascinating as this is, what has any of this to do with me?”
She had asked, a small feeling of dread, after her previous night’s conversation with Alexis filling her.
“Well Tessa, it seems that Alexis took quite a shine to you”
His eyes glowing brightly.
“He liked you very much”
“If you are taking to pimping out your family for the greater good of your business empire John, I suggest you stick with Marcie”
She bit out at him, her tone low and dangerous, making him laugh loudly.
“Well while I am sure it would be much easier with Marcie........it seems his tastes do not seem to run that way” he had said just as contemptuously.
“He seems to like the more trashy type...I guess like mother, like daughter”
His eyes had flicked over her with disdain. Tessa had once more felt the pang of pain stabbing at her from his words, remembering her mother. So beautiful and vivacious in life, she had lived that life to excess with too many men, too much drink and too many drugs. She had been a weak woman beaten down by the man before her, her mother‘s lifestyle causing many scandals. When she had died from a drug overdose when Tessa was only ten she had never forgiven or forgotten his only comment to her.
“Good riddance to bad rubbish”
With real hatred in her voice she had said softly her eyes flashing with warning.
“Don’t EVER talk about my mother like that again”
Making a small snorting noise that showed his feelings towards how little he cared about her mother he had continued.
“Anyway, as much as I would not mind ‘pimping’ you out, Alexis has other requirements”
Tessa had remained silent as he waited for some comment from her, shrugging when none had been forthcoming.
“He wants a wife Tessa”
She had frowned with annoyance, remembering the previous evening’s conversation.
“He doesn’t even know me”
She had mouthed.
“Well maybe that is for the best”
Her grandfather had added cruelly.
“Alexis is a man who enjoys the finer things in life, including women. However, he has I suppose reached that age that he wants an heir to his fortune – and believe me Tessa he has a massive fortune to protect”
“So why not marry one of the many willing little gold diggers out there”
Tessa had thrown back.
“Well the problem with gold diggers is that they tend to get lawyered up and greedy when wronged”
His contempt for women so clear in the way he spat out the sentence.
“No, he proposes a business deal. I will get my mineral rights and you will be his dutiful wife, producing for him children, while turning a blind eye to his........ lifestyle”
Tessa had felt sick.
“An arranged marriage John? In this day and age – why me?”
John Jones had smiled.
“Well he wants to ensure he marries the right woman, and being my granddaughter gives you that credibility, along with your suitability as a mother apparently”
For a few seconds there was silence as Tessa had let it all sink in, feeling trapped.
“What if it doesn’t work out?” she asked gently.
“Then you walk away with nothing – you give up rights to any children and have no right to any money of his”
Looking at him with disbelief she had groaned.