Twice burnt, Once Loved

AN'

arms ached. But I still set about preparing my father's favorite meal-pan-seared fish with l

moment, relief flooding me. H

ly, setting the tray on the table b

voice hoarse but warmer than yeste

m. Isla had stepped in, thank God, and the surgery had gone through with

mother treated him so cruelly? He was still her husband. Y

ews to cling to: a job offer. Tomorrow

that skimmed my curves without being too revealing. My makeup was minimal-a touch of mascara, a sweep of

ington half an hour ahead of schedule. The building loomed above me like a monument to ambition, all glass

a professional smile. "Good mor

Brooks," I replied. "I'm here to

ed. "Fifth floor, please. Someo

an in a tailored suit stepped forwa

ramic city views. The décor was modern,

with your new s

iling faintly. "I

s schedule and the responsibilities I had to overse

" I promised, shaking

hen the phone on my desk rang. "The CEO would

e entering. "Go

eath

was

rom that one unf

heart hammered. He stood behind his desk, watchin

nt," I managed, my voice stead

the air seemed to thicken between us. "Da

was back. That same magnetic pull and he

, sir?" I asked, tryin

about your job." His gaze pinned mine. "Your real role is to be with me. Alway

as dry. "Ye

radiating from him. My pulse skittered. His eyes never l

t taste of something sweet, and a rush of sensation that

st, his voice low.

. "David, we're not... datin

He stopped m

ts gleamed under the light, luxurious yet refined. Everything about him scre

When I opened my eyes, he was there beside me, clos

happy," he said. "I'll p

hard, unab

smile tugging at his lips. "Susan Brooks, I love you

n. I could only hug hi

y forehead.

stal glasses sparkled, and the table was heavy with dishes. Every bite wa

ike it?"

admitted. "It's.

ed, almost playful. He already

idence you got hir

send your offer the moment I heard you were seeking employment. Warn

se in m

"you'll dress up. I'm

cupped my face in his hands. His kiss was fie

gainst my ear. "I meant eve

t. As I watched his limousine disappear down the street, I real

whether to be terr