Housewife For Rent

Citation preview

Housewife for Rent Michele R. Bradsley

Hard Shell Word Factory

This story copyright 2001 by Michele R. Bradsley. Thank you for honoring the copyright. Published by Hard Shell Word Factory. PO Box 161 Amherst Junction, WI 54407 http://www.hardshell.com Electronic book created by Seattle Book Company. eBook ISBN: 0−7599−3552−1 Cover art copyright 2001 Susan Bodendorfer All rights reserved.

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All characters in this book have no existence outside the imagination of the author, and have no relation whatever to anyone bearing the same name or names. These characters are not even distantly inspired by any individual known or unknown to the author, and all incidents are pure invention.

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To Julie Rose Schultz Who lives in the hearts of those who love her To Melanie and Amanda Flees Whose courage continues to inspire me To Mary Z. Wolf Who carried on in the face of tragedy so she could tend to the turtles in her pond

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• Prologue • Chapter 1 • Chapter 2 • Chapter 3 • Chapter 4 • Chapter 5 • Chapter 6 • Chapter 7 • Chapter 8 • Chapter 9 • Chapter 10 • Chapter 11 • Chapter 12 • Chapter 13 • Chapter 14 • Chapter 15 • Chapter 16 Housewife for Rent

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♦ Michele R. Bradsley

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Prologue HOT MAMA needs excitement in her life. I am gorgeous with an incredible body. Applicants must be reasonably good−looking and like children. Fifteen−year−old Angel Millridge frowned at the handwritten ad as her best friend, Lizzy, peered over her shoulder. "Hot mama? That's lame," Lizzy said. "You're right." Angel crossed out the words. The small newspaper office in Mirror Falls, Oklahoma hummed with ringing phones and ceaseless typing. It smelled like ink and cigarettes, and Angel couldn't wait to get out of the place. She sighed. "Personal ads are the last resort. I've got to get Mom a social life." "What if you get some weirdo or mass murderer?" "I'm screening everyone." Lizzy raised a thin−plucked brow; drawing attention to the silver eyebrow ring she'd gotten the week before. "Why can't you just get your mom a ring or something for her birthday?" "Would you want a ring when you could have Antonio Banderas?" Lizzy snapped her fingers. "Reality check. Antonio Banderas and his look−alikes don't Prologue

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answer the personals." "All right. I want her to have someone else to fuss over. She smothers me." "You're so full of it." "Okay, she understands me too much. Do you know how hard it is to rebel when your mother doesn't react to anything?" "Nope," Lizzy said, cracking her gum. "The eyebrow ring about sent my parents into cardiac arrest." Her blue eyes sparkled with the memory and she grinned. Angel looked at Lizzy's pierced eyebrow with renewed interest, then shook her head. "When I had my right ear pierced seven times, Mom just looked at me and said she liked my jewelry choices. Then she asked to borrow the gold hoop with the skull on it for Halloween." "She's not gonna like what you did to your hair," Lizzy said, gesturing at Angel's head. "That color should set her off." "I can only hope," Angel sighed. "She'll probably tell me it's a great shade or something." "Weird." Lizzy glanced down at the paper. "Maybe you should describe your mom some more." Prologue

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Angel re−read the ad and bit her lower lip. Then she added "with big bazooms" after "an incredible body." "I don't think bazooms is classy enough. Besides, I've seen your mom's chest and big isn't a word I'd associate with it." "Men have a thing about boobs. Maybe just mentioning them will draw a bigger crowd." Lizzy shook her head, sending tiny purple−and−blonde braided locks flying. "Why do guys care about boobs, anyway? It's so stupid." Angel looked down at her own practically flat chest and then shot Lizzy a who−knows−why−men−like−anything look. "Maybe I should skip breasts altogether and say something about how smart she is." "Yeah, guys are real impressed with big brains," Lizzy said gravely. "Hey! Why don't you list some things your mom's good at?" Angel brightened, then started writing. She finished and handed Lizzy the paper. "Housewife needs excitement...blah, blah, blah...skills include cooking, cleaning, and sewing." Lizzy gave back the ad. "It's better than nothing, I guess." Angel gave the clerk the ad and the money. "This will start on Monday in the Tulsa and Oklahoma City dailies and run for a week," he said. "Are you sure you don't want to run it Prologue

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in the Mirror Falls Gazette?" "No," said Angel. "I definitely don't want it in the Gazette." "Okay." He dropped a slim gold key onto the scarred wood counter. "The key is for Box J−3. That's where you'll pick up any responses." Angel pocketed the key. She felt a spark of hope and excitement bubble through her. "This is it, Lizzy. My mom's gonna get a man−−whether she wants one or not."

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Chapter 1 "PSSST." Nicholas Kade frowned. What was that? He looked around, but only saw the green field stretching before him. The high school, just a half−mile away, resembled a big square. Its beige paint gleamed yellow in the early morning light. The only other occupant in the field was Matilda−−the cranky old cow who belonged to the high school's Future Farmers of America. She munched contentedly on the dew−laden grass. Nick inhaled the sweet scent of honeysuckle and fresh air as he readjusted his position under the huge century−old oak tree; his rear end tingled from sitting on the rocky ground. He loved being outdoors just before the day started. He'd hiked the mile here, glad that he'd decided to live so close to the school. The neighborhood where he'd settled almost a month ago was nestled at the bottom of the hill behind the oak tree. The wind ruffled the edges of papers stacked under a large, blue algebra textbook, reminding him of the math tests he needed to finish grading. His red pen was going to run out of ink at this rate, he thought, circling yet another wrong answer. "Psssst." Chapter 1

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There it was again. Nick closed the folder and capped the pen. Possibly the wind. Or a snake? Suddenly wary, he rose, and dusted off his khaki pants. "Hey, you down there," an irritated female voice called out. "I'm in the tree. Can you help me?" A vision of a lonesome wood nymph trapped, spellbound, in a tree teased his imagination, but when Nick looked up into the thick branches of the oak, a dark−haired woman in a peach dress and sensible shoes peered down at him. Defiant brown eyes dared him to ask why she was stuck in a tree, but wisdom dictated that he forget curiosity and go with chivalry. "Shall I grab your ankle?" he asked, looking at the slim ankle in question. Her tan legs had tiny red scratches and mud caked the plain used−to−be white flats she wore. "My ankle? Don't be ridiculous." "What would you suggest?" "If I'd figured a way out of this mess, I would have done it already. Can't you do something else?" "Why don't you jump?" "I use my legs for little things, like walking." Chapter 1

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"I'll catch you." The idea did not thrill her if the expression on her face was any indication. Nick craned his neck. Maybe she was just in pain from a wayward branch poking her backside. "All right. I'll jump." Nick obligingly opened his arms, but she didn't loosen her death grip from the limb. In fact, she looked as if she were contemplating staying in the tree. A man of action, he reached up, grabbed her ankle, and yanked. He heard an ominous ripping sound, the scrape of her shoe against the bark, and then, "Aaaaaaaarrggghhh." His hand slid up her thigh as she plummeted from the tree. Nick wrapped his other arm around her waist and felt her arms clutch his shoulders. He fell backwards, smacking into the hard−packed earth. Nick sucked in a breath. He hoped he hadn't damaged any vital organs. And he certainly hoped the rocks impaling him hadn't punctured his flesh. The woman, whose head had rapped his chin during the fall, lifted up and glared at him. "Would you be so kind as to remove your hand from my buttock?" His hand flexed automatically on the nicely rounded flesh. Dear Lord, where were her panties? Nick quickly obliged her request, then jerked the dress down over her exposed rear end. "Sorry 'bout that." Chapter 1

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"Yes. Well." She rolled off, stumbling to her feet. Nick watched as she smoothed back the sweaty curls loosed from her schoolmarm bun and straightened the dirt−splotched dress. He got to his feet, dragging in deep breaths, and cursed the ache traveling up his spine. "Thanks for almost killing me." Nick rubbed a sore spot on his thigh. "I didn't think you'd come down like a lead weight. My lungs almost collapsed, you know." Her mouth opened. Then closed. She fisted her hands and put them on her hips. "There's nothing a girl likes better than to be compared to a lead weight. Those years in an all male charm school certainly paid off for you." Nick's eyebrows rose. He didn't know whether to be pissed off or amused. He chose a little of both. "I played hooky the day they taught How To Gingerly Remove A Woman From A Tree." He grinned. "I'm sorry, Miss−−?" Her grim expression eased, and when she unpinched her lips, he was surprised to see she had a nice, full, kissable mouth. "I'm Mira Millridge." She dusted off her hands and offered one to him. Her grip was dainty, feminine, and surprisingly firm. "It's been nice falling on you. If you'll excuse me, I Chapter 1

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have an appointment." Nick was stunned. She was Angel Millridge's mother? The Angel, who dressed in black, wore gold skull earrings, and painted her eyes with metallic purple eye shadow, was the offspring of this woman? He knew from Angel that her parents were divorced. Maybe the girl took after her father. "Before you go, could I ask how you ended up in the tree?" "That monster bovine." Mrs. Millridge pointed to the cow in the distance. "She chased me all the way across the field. Every time I tried to get down, she'd moo and butt the tree with that thick head of hers. Then she went away, and I...couldn't get down." "You ran away from Matilda? She has to be at least a hundred years old." "She gets insulted easily. I only called her a steak once, but she never forgot it." Nick laughed. "Are you serious?" "I'm always serious. I make a point of it." "Oh." He caught the mischievous twinkle in her eye and relaxed. "I'm glad I was able to be of some service." "I'm glad we didn't end up in the emergency room." She smiled. She really did have a nice mouth. She turned around and marched toward the high school. Slim, much like a Chapter 1

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wood nymph, he mused, unable to resist looking at her retreating figure. He noticed a long, jagged tear ran the length of the skirt, revealing Mrs. Millridge's firm buttocks and peach thong panties. He would've never guessed her for thong panties. The way she walked, he'd pegged her for white cotton with full cheek coverage. He strode next to her and cleared his throat. "Your dress is ripped." "I'll fix it later." "You're not wearing a slip." She stopped. "With your handle of the situation, I'm sure you couldn't help but notice." Nick sensed she no longer found the situation funny. "I didn't grab you on purpose, Mrs. Millridge," he said. Her eyebrows rose in obvious disbelief. He realized Mira Millridge was a rule follower. A walk−between−the−lines−do−gooder. Hell, let her believe he was a pervert if it made her feel better. "I didn't think you wanted to walk into the school showing off your butt." Without waiting for her to respond, he headed back to the oak tree. Women! He knew from experience there was just no pleasing them. Nick looked at his watch. Classes would start in fifteen minutes and his first hour was always the rowdiest bunch. It was also the Chapter 1

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honors class. He reached the oak and gathered his things. When he turned around, Mrs. Millridge stood there, twisting her hands. Her heart−shaped face was beet red. Ah−ha. She must have discovered the bare truth about her dress. He grinned at the bad pun. "I apologize for my behavior," she said. "I'm grateful for your help." Her gaze flicked to the scattered papers and folders. "You're one of the new teachers?" "Yes." "Would you please tell Mr. Kade that I will be back to speak with him at the lunch break?" "Mr. Kade?" "Yes, he teaches math. Do you know him?" "Quite well, actually." "Then you don't mind giving him the message?" Nick wracked his brain. He didn't recall having such an appointment. Why would Angel's mother want to speak with him? Angel was an excellent student. "Are you sure he knows about the appointment?" "My daughter set it up on Friday. Monday morning at 8 a.m. I didn't count on the cow and−−well, the rest." Chapter 1

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Nick debated about whether or not to confess his identity, but decided he'd rather have time to rally his defenses−−and ask Angel a few pertinent questions. "I'll give him the message. It was nice to meet you, Mrs. Millridge." "I wish you hadn't met quite so much of me all at once," she replied. He laughed, and he saw another blush sweep across her face. Pretty little thing. Not really his type, though. He watched as she walked toward the housing edition where he lived. Mirror Falls was a small community. Exactly the place he'd wanted to start a new life. It was possible the Millridge family lived in his neighborhood. He stuffed the book and papers into his satchel and set out toward the high school. Mrs. Millridge. Hmmm. Now she was a puzzle. He liked to figure things out. It was why he chose to teach math. As he climbed the familiar concrete steps of the school, he had the uncomfortable feeling something about his life had just changed forever. "I TOLD MOM it's called Hell's Blood," Angel said, touching one curly red lock. "And you know what she said?" Angel and Lizzy were at their usual place at school, the end of the senior hall. The girls were only sophomores, but ever since Lizzy had pierced her eyebrow−−a first at Gary C. Chapter 1

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Grossman High School−−they'd moved up the ladder of teen−aged respect. Lizzy slouched against the lockers next to Angel. "What did she say?" "She wished her hair would color that nicely." "No way." "Way." The bell rang and the hallways exploded with kids. "Another day, another class," Lizzy sighed. "Hey, how's it going with the personal ad thing?" "I've got Mom some dates. One is an insurance guy from Oklahoma City. He's rich, tall, and drives a BMW." "Insurance? Booooorrrriinngg. What's next, a vacuum cleaner salesman?" "He's got money, so who cares! And his picture..." Angel dug into her backpack and handed Lizzy the small photograph. "Nice nose hair." "Cut it out. He's okay." "Yeah, right. Is that a toupee?" Ignoring Lizzy's comments, Angel tucked the photograph into her pocket. "I thought I'd do the dates in one day so Mom can pick the guy she likes best." Chapter 1

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"A dating marathon? She'll never do that." "She won't exactly know," Angel said. "I've got a plan." "It's not good when you have plans." Lizzy straightened. "There's Mr. Kade. Now, he's good−looking. No nose hairs in sight. You're lucky to have him for first hour." Angel looked at the new teacher and pursed her lips. "He's single, isn't he?" "You're already gonna be grounded until you're seventy, so don't get any ideas about adding Mr. Kade to the list of victims." "I might need a Plan C." Lizzy shook her head. "I've got English. See you later." Angel waved good−bye to Lizzy and went to class. Mr. Kade was busy writing on the chalkboard. When he turned around, his gaze pinned her. That's when she realized she'd forgotten to tell him that her mother had requested a conference with him. She slid lower into her seat. Geesh. The newspaper office closed early on Friday and in her rush to get there after school to check box J−3, Angel had forgotten about setting up the meeting with Mr. Kade. How was she going to explain this screw−up to her mother without lying? MIRA SEARCHED for suitable shoes to go with her blue dress. When she returned Chapter 1

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to the school, she hoped she could avoid the teacher she'd almost squashed. It'd been ages since a man had touched her anywhere, much less her rear end. Her butt had tingled all the way home. "Fiddlesticks and rats' tails," she muttered, flinging a high heel at the closet door. The shoe dropped to the floor and the heel popped off. Great. So much for her one and only good pair of heels. She closed her eyes, counted to twenty−three, and sighed. The doorbell rang. Stepping into her old, reliable sandals, Mira scuffled to the door and peered through the peephole. Red roses blocked the view. "Who is it?" "It's me, nufflekins." Nufflekins? "I think you have the wrong house." "This is Mira Millridge's home, is it not?" "Yes." "These are for you, my adored one." Alarms clattered in her mind. Goodness gracious. Who did she know who used such atrocious vocabulary and had a deviated septum? She slid the chain lock into place and opened the door. "Just leave the roses on the porch." Chapter 1

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"Aren't you going to invite me in?" "No." "I know it isn't our planned day to be together, Mira," the nasal−man admonished. "But you said that you loved surprises...so here I am." I hate surprises, Mira thought, and knew, somehow, that she was really going to hate this one. She opened the door. The roses parted to reveal a dough−faced, balding man who's height left him breast level to her. "I know this is going to sound silly, but I fell in love with you when I received that first adorable letter. I hired a private detective to find you." Mira swallowed. The same heavy feeling she'd had at her Aunt Betty's wedding−−when she'd drank too much champagne and ate three pieces of cake−−settled over her. Something was wrong. Very wrong. "Mr. er, Mr..." "It's Howard−−your darling Howie, remember?" She felt like she was going to retch. "Listen, Howie, I don't know who you are. Maybe you've mistaken me for a different Mira Millridge." The man's pale blue eyes dimmed, then he brightened. "Oh no, I don't think so. You're Chapter 1

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my sugar lamb, all right." "Am I interrupting something important?" The male voice sounded familiar. Mira looked across Howie's shiny head straight at the man who'd yanked her out of the tree. And here he was again, bearing witness to another embarrassing situation for her. Did he possess some kind of Mira−Humiliation sonar? "Who is he?" asked Howie. Helpless, she looked at the man who had−−somewhat−−saved her from spending the morning trapped in the oak tree. "Never mind, darling, he doesn't matter," Howie said. His gaze focused on her. "I want you to marry me." Mira blinked down at Howie. "What?" A diamond the size of a marble appeared among the roses. "You're the one for me," he sighed. "No, I'm not." "I've purchased a place in town, so that I can be close to you. And I'll propose every day until you say yes." He was too pathetic to be a serial killer or even a really effective stalker. But visions of Chapter 1

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Howie appearing on her doorstep every day to propose marriage panicked her. Who was this guy? And why did he think she knew him? "I mean I can't because−−because..." "I'm her fiancé," said her rescuer, who had settled against the porch railing. Mira couldn't believe what she'd just heard. Howie looked at her for confirmation and she realized that it was either a sudden engagement with the teacher or seeing the short, bald guy on her porch every day. She pushed past the roses and stood next to the man she would have to kill later. "Yes. My fiancé," she repeated. Her tongue thickened with the lie. "Please meet..." She looked up, realizing he'd never told her his name. "Kade," the man said. "Nicholas Kade."

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Chapter 2 Fresh bouts of humiliation scorched Mira. She'd not only fallen out of tree, she'd fallen on, and been groped by, her daughter's math teacher. "Here I am. In the flesh," he said. A corner of his mouth lifted into a half−smile. Indignation flared. Oh, he thought that her earlier mortification was funny, did he? She resisted stomping on his foot. "You never asked my name," he reminded her. Mira crossed her arms and glared at him. "It was an awkward moment. What was I supposed to say, 'Hi, that's a really nice butt you have there, by the way, my name's Nick Kade?" Her main goal had been to get out of the man's disturbing presence, so, no, she hadn't inquired about his name. But he hadn't volunteered it, either. And...he thought she had a nice butt? "Excuse me." Howie dropped the roses onto the wicker chair by the front door and crossed his arms. "Did you manhandle my honeybuns?" Mira and Nick looked at Howie. "They're not−−I mean, I'm not your honeybuns," Mira Chapter 2

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said in an utterly calm voice. She sent Nick a don't−you−dare−say−it look, then squared her shoulders. "Nicholas and I were discussing the first time we met. It was very romantic." "Yes, honeybuns−−oof," Nick bent over as Mira rammed her elbow into his ribs. "A good friend of ours, Matilda, introduced us." "I don't believe it," Howie said. He turned an accusing gaze on Mira. "You said I was your dream man. You said you wanted me for my intellect. You said you found the insurance business fascinating!" "You've been busy," Nick whispered into her ear. His warm breath tickled the sensitive skin. Mira clutched Nick's arm, restraining the urge to rip it off. She was stuck between Howie, who obviously lived in a different dimension−−or was that dementia−−and Nicholas Kade, her fake fiancé. "I'm sorry, but I'm committed to Nicholas now." Nick nodded. "Our engagement was very sudden." "This is preposterous." Howie pulled down his ill−fitting jacket and straightened into a stiff I'm−not−leaving stance. "I refuse to believe that you fell in love with a tall hairy−−cretin." He nodded sharply. "That's right. Cretin." "Did he just call me a cretin?" Chapter 2

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"Yes," Mira said, glancing at Nick's amazed features. "Of the tall, hairy variety." He frowned, his expression not at all friendly. What if he didn't take insults well? What if cretin was a rage word−−and it turned him into a heaving, maniacal math teacher. Nick leaned down and whispered, "What's a cretin?" So much for theory. "I'm not sure, but I don't think it's complimentary," she whispered back, looking at Howie. The sun glinted off his round, white head and she saw droplets of sweat bead his lip. Brave soul. She felt sorry for him. "I simply cannot believe that the same Mira who wrote me those delightful letters would do this. It's unaccountable. It's fraud." Mira straightened. "I don't know what you're talking about. I've never written you any letters." Howard turned an interesting shade of red. He heaved a breath, ran a palm over his head, and said, "I'm not giving you up without a fight." "It appears our friend needs convincing," Nick said. The rich timbre of his voice had a liquid quality that made her nerves tingle. The lazy intent glittering in his green eyes warned her, but before she could protest, he lowered his head and pressed warm, soft lips against her mouth. Shocked into stillness, she didn't move when Nick pulled her closer and Chapter 2

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deepened the kiss. He tasted of coffee and mint, and his lips did not demand, but coaxed. She responded, telling herself it was for Howie's sake, but it had been a long time since she'd been kissed. And she couldn't remember the experience ever being like this. His tongue flicked the corner of her mouth and a jolt of electricity zapped the pit of her stomach. She pulled back and found herself hanging onto Nick's shoulders and gasping for breath. "Oh dear," Howie said. His round face deflated like a balloon. "I guess that's it, then. Another Howard P. Morgan relationship disaster." He shoved the diamond ring into his suit pocket and picked up the roses. Howie's morose features sent pinpricks of guilt through Mira. She didn't even know this man, but she still felt responsible for his emotional state. "There are lots of good, stable, nice women out there, Howard." His face brightened and a chubby hand squeezed her arm. "Don't worry, sweetlins. I'll be here to pick up the pieces of your heart when this big galoot breaks it." Howie glared at Nick as he passed. Then he shuffled off the porch, down the sidewalk, and into the silver BMW that was parked at the curb. Mira counted to 78 while she watched the car drive away, then she turned her attention to Nicholas Kade. Chapter 2

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"You did not have to kiss me." "All in the line of duty." His gaze caressed her mouth. "Why aren't you teaching?" "I thought I was." Mira touched her mouth, feeling the slight swelling of lips that had been well kissed. "High school. Why aren't you teaching high school?" "I have an hour planning period before lunch," he said, following her into the house. "I thought I'd save you from having to run from Matilda again." "Thanks ever so much." "Surely that isn't sarcasm, Mrs. Millridge. After all, you wanted to see me." The reason she wanted to speak to Mr. Kade flashed in her mind. How could she have forgotten? Stupid question. She'd had the morning from heck and the man's kiss had erased all rational thought. She looked at him: longish blonde hair, easy smile, and beautiful, cat−like eyes. Not to mention the fit of his khaki pants would be declared illegal in some states. Mira gestured for him to sit on the sofa; she chose the recliner. Her old, comfortable couch fit him. Or maybe he fit the couch. In any case, the image of him in her house made Chapter 2

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her uneasy. After three years of divorce and sparse dating, the idea that a man she barely knew−−and hardly liked−−looked as if he belonged in her home was disconcerting. She cleared her throat. "Look, Mr. Kade−−" "You can call me by my first name. We've been...intimate, after all." "I hardly call a mediocre kiss intimate," she lied. That kiss went beyond intimate; it'd been bone melting. He put his hand on his heart. "Ouch." Then he grinned. "With a little practice I can get better." "Nicholas−−" "Nick. Only my Aunt Jane called me Nicholas. I'm not very fond of it." He didn't sound very fond of his aunt, either. She picked at the doily on the recliner's arm. "Very well. Nick. And, please, call me Mira." His gaze flicked to her mouth. "All right, Mira. So why did you want to speak with me?" "I'm transferring Angel out of your class." His eyebrows rose. "Angel is an excellent student. My class is the only honors class. It would be a shame to lose her." "Unfortunate, yes, but necessary," Mira said. "This discussion is merely courtesy on my Chapter 2

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part. I don't need your permission to have Angel's classes changed, but I did want your cooperation." "Why the transfer?" Mira grasped the fringes of the afghan that was folded over the recliner's arm. "She has a crush on someone." His laughter was incredulous. "She'll probably have crushes throughout high school. I wouldn't be concerned−−there will be plenty more, I'm sure." "Thanks for your analysis. But I believe this particular crush is on an older man and could be destructive. I want to nip the infatuation in the bud immediately." "An older man? Then why−−" His eyes widened. "Me?" "Yes, Mr. Kade. My daughter has a crush on you." She saw the doubt temper Nick's surprise. He frowned. "I don't believe it." "She thinks she's a mature woman of the world," Mira said. "She's been experimenting with her identity. Clothes. Make−up. Hairstyles. The next logical step is boys−−or a man. I'm not basing this on mere speculation. I found evidence." "What did you do? Read her diary?" Mira squirmed. His assessment was too close for comfort. "Not exactly. When I was Chapter 2

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dumping out Angel's trash can in her bedroom, a paper fell out." She scooted off the recliner and left the living room. She returned with a black folder and joined Nick on the couch. She handed him the folder. "See?" He opened it and removed a crinkled paper that had been smoothed out. "N is sexy, sweet. A smile with no lips. I like him, but I'm afraid. Math is our common ground. A number plus a number equals infinity. That's how long I'd have to wait for N." "It's a poem," Mira said. "Not one of her best." "What makes you think she means me?" Mira grasped the paper and turned it over. A scrawled note was on the back. Nick read, "Mr. Kade is good−looking and funny. I wonder how I can get him to agree to a date." "The meaning is pretty clear." "You believe Angel wants to ask me out? I'm thirty−eight years old. Most teens think that's older than the dinosaurs." "Young girls have romantic souls. It will prevent a lot of heartache and embarrassment if I just remove Angel from the situation." "Have you talked with her about this? Asked her what's going on?" Mira tucked the paper back into the folder. "No. Angel's been trying to rebel, but she's Chapter 2

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not really cut out for it. I thought I would handle the situation without forcing the issue with her." "It's been my experience that communication solves a lot of problems. Why don't you let me talk to her?" "No!" The word exploded with vehemence. Mira drew a breath, shocked at her own reaction. Nick looked at her, his brows raised. "Was it something I said?" "It's something you are." "Excuse me?" "Look, it's not your responsibility to speak with my daughter. She doesn't need another man disappointing her. Her father's already rejected her. Now she's looking to you. I can't stand the thought of her getting hurt." "Whoa, wait a minute. Are you saying she's seeking a replacement for her father? She wants to date me because I remind her of Dad?" Nick tapped the folder. "That's a little sick." "I didn't say anything of the sort. I don't know what Angel's reasons are and right now, they're irrelevant. I've made my decision." Chapter 2

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Mira her arms and legs were crossed−−an obvious "This Discussion Is Closed" sign that Nicholas Kade immediately understood. His gaze swept across her. "Maybe you're projecting your own feelings for men onto Angel." Her cheeks flushed hot. She yanked the folder out of his hands. "You have no idea what my feelings are about men. I'm transferring Angel out of your class immediately." Her stare should have burned him to ashes. Instead he remained in solid form, sitting on the couch and looking at her in a reasonable manner that made her teeth clench. "I'm sorry. I shouldn't have made a rushed assessment like that." He cleared his throat. "You know kids, one week in they're in love, the next they're not. You don't really know if the poem is about me. There are two boys in the class whose names begin with N. Why don't you wait to transfer Angel?" "Why should I?" Her anger was fading, but not because of Nick's charming smile or pleasantly coaxing voice. She didn't want to take Angel out of the honors class...but she wasn't taking any chances with her daughter's happiness, either. On the other hand, she was possibly over−reacting to the situation. Nick must have sensed her change of heart. "I'll watch her. If I see any dreamy Chapter 2

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expressions directed at me or if she flirts outrageously, I'll let you know." "Well..." "You owe me. I saved you−−twice. Angel's a good kid. I'm sure this can be resolved without taking her out of my class." She stared at him, then sighed and wilted onto the couch. "All right. Two weeks. And I'll try to work it into a conversation." "Thank you." "So what are the boys' names? The ones in your class? It's possible she likes one of them." Mira looked at him. "That would be great. Her first romance." "There's Ned. He's a little bit, um, intellectual. He's nice and quiet. Likes to wear ties to class. Excellent student." "Doesn't seem her type. Who's the other kid?" "He's smart, too. Tall. Seems to enjoy the color black a lot." Nick rubbed the back of his neck and looked at Mira. Her feeling of hope turned to dread. "He doesn't talk much and he only wears the nose clip on Fridays." "Oh dear." Mira closed her eyes. "I'm too afraid to ask." "His real name is George," Nick said. "But we've been instructed to call him Napalm." Chapter 2

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"Napalm?" Mira felt faint. She'd tried be a buoy in Angel's stormy rebellion. She'd tried to remember how it had been for herself as a teen−ager. Keeping an open mind, not allowing Angel's antics to overwhelm her, and staying away from huge doses of Valium had been part of her crusade to remain a "cool" mother. Letting her only child date a boy named Napalm, though, would be the true test of her motherhood. She sunk lower into the couch. "Oh, give me strength," she groaned. "Two more years and then it's time for college," Nick said. Mira shook her head. "Thanks. But I'd almost rather Angel want you than the boy you just described." "Was that a compliment?" Nick's amused voice rattled her for some reason. She straightened, then leaned forward. "Do you think this is funny? This is serious. We're talking about my daughter and her future." "I thought we were talking about a high school girl's crush." Nick Kade was an exasperating man. "Just remember, if you can prove to me that Angel isn't interested in you she won't be transferred." Chapter 2

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"Even if it turns out that Napalm is the object of her affections?" Mira hesitated, then nodded. "Although her choice of hair color leaves something to be desired, she's a good kid. I wish...oh never mind." "Wish what?" She noticed, then, how close she was sitting to Nick. Their thighs touched and she felt his warmth penetrate the thin material of her dress. He shifted, draping his arm along the couch. His face was inches away and her gaze strayed to his mouth. Now here was the poster boy for Broken Hearts Anonymous, she thought. A face of planes and angles...he had one of those Roman noses, a small scar on the right corner of his upper lip, and green eyes framed by thick blonde lashes. This morning, she'd noticed his broad shoulders and narrow hips and even the way his shirt fit over the biceps of his arms. "Wishing?" Nick asked. Mira jerked away as if slapped. "I'm not wishing for a darn thing from you. Just because some women might find you handsome doesn't mean every woman wants you." Nick eyes narrowed. "What are you talking about? I was asking about Angel−−what you wished for her." "Oh." Chapter 2

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He rose, his expression unreadable. "I need to get back to school. Thank you for allowing Angel to stay in the class. I'll keep in touch." The familiar tingle of mortification swept through Mira. She stood, twisting her hands as she watched Nick turn and walk to the front door. "Just in case you're interested," she said in an apologetic voice, "I wish that Angel would never have to experience heartache." He turned, his green gaze caressing her face. "First love−−any love means heartache," he answered. "And it's why so many people close themselves off to possibilities." "What does that mean?" she asked faintly, but Nick was gone.

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Chapter 3 NICHOLAS WOKE suddenly, grasping his left leg from habit instilled long ago by nightmares and pain. As he reached for the nurse's call button, he realized he was in his own house. His leg was intact despite the severity of last year's accident and the monstrous pain had disappeared months ago. He was alive, walking on his own legs, and keeping the promises he'd made to himself. He burrowed into the covers and closed his eyes, trying to regain sleep. Before the nightmare, he'd been dreaming of lips and sighs and...a pair of serious brown eyes. No way. He had not been dreaming about Mira Millridge. Nick laughed softly. Of all the people in the world to fantasize about, why would his subconscious pick her? He hadn't even heard from her since Monday−−when they became "engaged." Now it was Thursday and he had a three−day weekend thanks to the Mirror Falls Annual Piccadilly Festival, which started tomorrow. The whole town closed down−−schools, businesses−−heck, even the post office−−for the Festival. His thoughts drifted back to Mira. Everything he didn't want in a woman−−packaged nicely, yes−−but she was the perfectionist type. Her manner, the way she dressed, the way Chapter 3

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she stiffened her spine, and the silly knot of hair arranged on the top of her head. Of course, the thong panties...now that was surprising. Yet Mira's home was a testament to nit−pickiness. Even though the furnishings were old and the carpet worn, it had been tidy and spotlessly clean. Just like Aunt Jane's house. The memory of Aunt Jane dispelled any warm feelings he might have harbored toward Mira. If she was one−eighth the shrew Aunt Jane had been−−he'd steer well clear of her. His aunt had died years ago, but the harsh lessons she'd instilled remained with him. Nick threw off the covers. Sleep was not going to be a friend tonight. He might as well raid the refrigerator and catch some television. Ignoring the robe draped over the dresser, he left the bedroom and went into the kitchen. Goose pimples rose on his flesh, but he liked the cool air, especially since Oklahoma summers were hellishly hot. Opening the fridge, he peered at the sparse offerings. He needed to go grocery shopping. Tomorrow. He settled for an apple and milk, though as a rule, late night jaunts required junk food, not good−for−you stuff. As he poured the milk, he heard a rustling sound outside the large, curtainless window. Stray cats, he thought. He usually put leftovers out for them. He grabbed a bowl of tuna salad from the fridge and sniffed it. The smell didn't make him gag, so he figured it wasn't Chapter 3

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science experiment material yet. Opening the back door, Nick bent over and placed the bowl on the porch. The bordering bushes on the right shook fiercely. He heard: "Oops, darn it to heck." The foliage parted, and a small, dark figure tumbled backwards and hit the concrete with a thump. A black baseball cap rolled into the yard. Chestnut hair tumbled around the woman's pale face. He leaned closer as a pair of baleful brown eyes glared at him. "Mira?" "What?" Nick blinked. He never figured her for a voyeur. Dressed head to foot in black including the tennis shoes, the only visible part of her body was her face. It was as red as a summer tomato. Nick laughed until tears streamed out of his eyes. "This isn't want you think," she snapped, raising up on her elbow. "I can explain. And it's not funny." "R−right. N−not funny," Nick repeated, straightening. Her lips pinched together and her eyes blazed. He wrapped his arms around his stomach as another bout of laughter wiggled through him. "Aaaaaaaah," Mira screamed. "Aaaaaaaaah." Chapter 3

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Nick stopped guffawing and jumped back. "What is it? Are you hurt?" She pointed at him, her face a mask of horror. Nick whirled around, but the kitchen was empty. Turning back, he stared at Mira, wondering if she'd hit her head. He bent down, but her screams hit breaking glass level. "YOU ARE NAKED!" Nick looked down. Oh damn. He was naked. He'd forgotten. "I was expecting a tom cat−−not a Peeping Tom." Her screams stopped abruptly, and Nick watched as she tried to regain her composure. She averted her gaze, heaved a breath, then got unsteadily to her feet. "I am so humiliated," she moaned, burying her face into her hands. "My life has been one embarrassing moment after another since I met you." "I don't think I can take such flattery," said Nick. He pushed open the door. "Come inside. I'll get dressed and you can explain why you were sneaking around my house. Unless, of course, you had other plans for me?" He waggled his brows. "I'm going to kill you," she said, still not looking at him. "Slowly. With something very blunt." "I thought you just wanted to have sex." Nick grabbed a kitchen towel and held it in Chapter 3

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front of him. "I'm covered. You can look." Mira slowly raised her head. Nick frowned. Embarrassment wouldn't begin to describe the emotions etched on her face. He felt a sliver of guilt stab him for baiting her. "I'll get dressed. If it makes you feel better, you can watch me walk out of the kitchen. You know, see my rear end since I've seen yours." A ghost of a smile flitted across her lips. "No thanks. I think we're more than even." Nick hurried to the bedroom and put on a pair of jean shorts and a tank top. When he returned to the kitchen, Mira was seated primly at the table, her hands folded. She looked entirely too relieved to see him dressed. A corner of his mouth lifted. Now there was a switch. He didn't know whether or not to be insulted that she preferred him clothed. "Would you like some milk?" "No." Her gaze drifted down his left leg and he knew she was examining the scars. He saw the question in her eyes. "Motorcycle accident. I'm lucky. The doctors managed to save my leg." "I'm sorry. It must have been a painful experience." "It was." She nodded and her sympathetic gaze made him uncomfortable. He watched as her Chapter 3

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hands fluttered like birds. "I'd like to explain why I was outside your house." "You couldn't stay away from me, right?" "Right," Mira answered. "I thought, 'Why don't I go over to Nick's and see if he's gallivanting around his home buck naked.'" He chuckled. "Okay, okay. I'm listening." "Can I ask you..." Her face flamed, then she shook her head. "Never mind." This was intriguing. Curiosity had obviously almost defeated Mira's good manners. He wanted her to ask this question−−whatever it was. "What, Mira?" She drew in a deep breath. "Were you cold or−−or warm, you know, outside a minute ago?" "I recall the moment," said Nick, trying to discern what she wanted to know. Why was she so interested in his temperature? Then realization dawned and he grinned. "It was chilly. But you were a tempting sight sprawled on my back porch." "Oh my." Her wide−eyed gaze flew to his crotch. Sharp desire speared him, stilling the bubble of laughter in his throat. If he didn't think she'd run, he'd offer to show her himself...warm. "I think I've been complimented," he drawled. Chapter 3

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She shifted her very correct posture and Nick thought that if Mira's spine got any straighter, it'd snap in two. "If you weren't peeping, what were you doing?" She flushed, then shrugged. "I thought Angel and Lizzy might be here. I overheard part of their conversation this afternoon." Nick leaned back into the chair and stretched out his legs, crossing his ankles. "They mentioned coming over here in the middle of the night?" "Not exactly. But checking out an older man tonight was mentioned." "Naturally you assumed it was me," Nick said. "Why didn't you just call?" "I didn't want to disturb you." At his sharp laugh, her cheeks pinkened, then she turned an affronted glare on him. "I didn't intend to wake you−−only to see if the girls were lurking outside." "I take it you haven't discussed anything with Angel." "Not exactly," Mira hedged. "With the picnic and everything, I've been busy getting orders ready." "Orders?" "I bake cakes, cookies, and pies. The Piccadilly Festival is always a big event for me." Chapter 3

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She lowered her lashes, then the patented Serious Mira look returned. She looked small, helpless, sinking inside of herself somehow. "Being a homemaker is all I know, so that's what I do for a living." Nick wasn't sure how to respond. So he changed the subject. "I've watched Angel closely this past week, and she hasn't done anything out of the ordinary. Nor has she batted an eyelash toward Napalm." "Oh? That's great." She looked around, her gaze landing everywhere but on him. "Your kitchen is rather unique. The black and white is certainly, um, stark." The appliances in the kitchen were black, the cabinets and dining set white, and the floor a checkered pattern. Nick liked it. Maybe it was macho, but he didn't want frilly yellow curtains and a bunch of plants in the window. "It suits me," he said. "Not really," she answered, finally meeting his gaze. "I don't think it suits you at all." Nick didn't know what to make of her assessment. He said nothing as he watched her. The silence thickened, interrupted only by chirping crickets. When the air conditioner kicked on, they both jolted, then grinned at each other sheepishly. "I should go home. I have to get up early for the picnic." Suddenly, Nick didn't want her to go. "Is it too late to order a cake?" He looked down at Chapter 3

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the table. What was he doing? "I made a few extras. You're welcome to one of them. No charge. It's the least I can do for barging into your home so late." "I'll pick it up tomorrow. I could help you set up, if you like." The offer was casual, and surprised him as much as it obviously surprised her. She flushed prettily and he noticed how fine−boned she was, small and perfect. He cleared his throat. He was being unusually chivalrous. Must be the lack of sleep. Her expression was wary. "I'm going to the Festival, anyway," Nick said. "And I should probably be around, just in case Howie is still hanging around." "You've helped me out enough. And I'm sorry about this..." she paused, apparently trying find the right word, then said, "inconvenience." "It's not inconvenient when a beautiful woman stumbles onto my porch. Only when she leaves too soon." Instead of the requisite blush, Mira's brown eyes flared with...was that desire? His blood stirred. Nick wondered if the kitten turned into a tigress in bed. If the way she kissed was any indication...stop thinking that way, Kade. Mira Millridge wasn't a one−night stand kind Chapter 3

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of woman and he wasn't a long−term−relationship kind of guy. Mira stood. "Good night, Nick." Her soft voice sent another hot−punch of lust into his gut. He blew out a breath. "Would you like me to walk you home?" "No. It's just a couple of blocks." She went to the back door and opened it. Then she turned around. "Thank you." For what? Nick thought, as she slipped out the door. He stood and watched through the window as Mira picked up the cap and crept through his backyard. Her home's close proximity was probably why she'd decided to scout his house. He chuckled and switched off the lights. She was something else. He crawled into bed, suddenly exhausted, and slept. And dreamed of lips and sighs and serious brown eyes. "HOWARD REALLY blew it," Angel said. She ate some more popcorn, tossing a few kernels at Lizzy who was busy painting her toenails black. "Hey, stop it. This stuff isn't dry yet." "I can't believe he showed up before Saturday. And he's sticking around. I saw him at Joe's Burger Joint yesterday." Chapter 3

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Lizzy looked up. "He isn't tall. That picture he sent must be an old high school photo or something." Angel snorted. "Yeah. Can you believe some people? Lying like that?" "At least he was rich." "But bald." They giggled. Then Lizzy said, "I meant to ask you−−how did you explain about not setting up that meeting with Mr. Kade?" "He saved my butt by talking to Mom without mentioning I'd forgotten to set things up. But he wasn't thrilled with my 'lack of responsibility.' Sounded just like Mom. It was scary." "Teachers or parents...same thing," Lizzy said. Angel flipped restlessly through a tattoo magazine. Spending the night at Lizzy's had been her idea. Earlier, they had gone to the movies, then checked out Bachelor Number One, William Jacobs, a banker from Oklahoma City. He'd been at the All Night Cafe reading the Wall Street Journal. Lizzy had pronounced him "Cheap Hair," and ordered chili fries. Angel had silently agreed. She hoped the other men she'd invited were more...well...acceptable. She'd split Chapter 3

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Bachelors One and Two for Friday and Bachelors, Three, Four, and Five for Saturday. Unfortunately, Bachelor Four had not stuck to the agenda−−Howard had been too eager. Bachelor Two would not arrive until the end of the picnic tomorrow. Maybe she could work Howard in between B1 and B2. "Earth to Angel. You're cleared for re−entry." "Sorry, Liz." Angel put aside the magazine. "I'm just wondering...do you think we're doing the right thing?" "We? I'm just an unwitting accomplice." Lizzy capped the bottle and handed it to Angel. "It's too late now at any rate. Of course, your mother is going to kill you when she finds out about this mess." Panic fluttered in her gut, then Angel relaxed. "If she does find out, she'll be too in love and happy to be mad at me. Besides, I'm her only child and she wouldn't risk jail for the pleasure of murdering me. Jails are filthy and Mom hates dirt." "She can't kill me," Liz said a little too cheerily. "What are we going to do next?"

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Chapter 4 MIRA ALMOST dropped the basket of cookies when the doorbell rang. She glanced at the clock. Who could that be? Surely not Nick. She hadn't taken his offer seriously. For some reason, he must have felt obligated to offer help, but she didn't expect him to come through with it. As she went to answer the door, her heart pounded in an uneven rhythm. Anxiety, she thought. She counted on a lot of business for the annual picnic. Getting everything right was imperative. The fact that she had seen Nicholas Kade gloriously naked had nothing to do with her shortness of breath. "Get a grip," she muttered, smoothing the pink dress. She answered the door, pasting on a nervous smile. "Hello." Nick's deep voice made her pulse leap. His green eyes reminded her of the weeping willow trees so prevalent in Mirror Falls. Lush, inviting, surrounding her with a thousand images. Her smile faltered. "It smells like cinnamon," he said. "Baking delicious morsels?" Chapter 4

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Mira's gaze swept over him. Dressed in a crisp short−sleeved green shirt and khaki walking shorts, Nick looked lean and healthy, giving "delicious" a whole new meaning. "That was a hint," Nick said. "For breakfast." She shook out of her weird revelry and realized she hadn't said a word since she'd opened the door. "I baked cinnamon rolls this morning. I didn't realize you'd be here." "I said I would help. And it just so happens, I love cinnamon rolls." Leading the way to the kitchen, Mira sucked in a breath and tried to center herself. She was obviously frazzled by the week's workload−−and the stress of not picturing Nick naked. "Clothes are great," she murmured, taking a roll and handing it to him. "No clothes are better," Nick said. His amused gaze challenged her, but verbal sparring was not her forte. "I would prefer to relegate last night's events to past experience and not discuss it." "We're not the first man and woman to see each other naked." He took a huge bite and chewed, watching her. "Usually...nakedness is...it's not exactly..." "We weren't making love." Chapter 4

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Mira faced the stove and finished putting cookies in the last basket. Her body felt like one big blush. How could he be so casual when referring to such an intimate act? She didn't want to talk about sex with a man who was obviously comfortable with the subject. Nick probably knew sexual acts that were illegal in most countries. Her own experiences were limited−−the only man she'd been with was Donald, the run away ex−husband. The cookie in her hand snapped in two. "Darn it." She whirled around and pointed the jagged half cookie at Nick. "Look what you made me do. If I hadn't been thinking about sex, I wouldn't have−−" He laughed. Mira realized what she'd just spouted and wanted to die. But Nick's laughter wasn't cruel, it was merely amused. She'd been acting like a silly twit. A giggle bubbled up and soon her own laughter joined his. Grinning, she handed him the cookie. He ate it in one bite. "You're getting the hang of it, Mira," Nick said. "The hang of what?" "Flirting. It's been awhile, huh?" "None of your business," Mira said. She felt more relaxed and less frenzied. Pointing to the variety of prepared goods scattered on the counter, she said, "Start here. The minivan's Chapter 4

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unlocked. There's a special cart in the back to hold everything in place." "Yes, ma'am." He winked at her and pleasure swirled through her. "I suppose this means we aren't going to talk about sex anymore." "Sex and food go great together," Mira answered. Now where had that sassy remark come from? His eyes darkened. "Well, well, well. Is that a vixen hiding in that sensible dress?" She lifted a shoulder. Pretending nonchalance, she ignored the sudden pounding of her heart. Was she really flirting with Nick? "You wouldn't believe the things you can do with a can of whip cream and an upside down cake." His gaze would have melted frozen butter. He reached around her head. The pins holding the topknot came out and her hair tumbled down. With gentle hands, he spread it out, touching her temples as his fingers combed her hair. She shivered. He stood back, looking at her as if he was an artist who'd just painted a canvas. "Beautiful." Whistling, he stacked three cake boxes in his arms and left. Mira smiled as she touched her loosened hair. It feels good to be free. THE MORNING passed in a flurry of sugar cookies and pecan pies. All the residents Chapter 4

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of Mirror Falls turned out for the Piccadilly Festival. Games, rides, homemade treats, and the opportunity to dunk the mayor in a hundred gallon tank of vanilla pudding were part of the fun. The evening would end with a huge fireworks display. Mira wiped the sweat trickling down her face. She didn't think she would make it to the evening fireworks. She was exhausted−−and it was only noon. Nick had gone to the minivan to retrieve more baked goods. Every so often, Angel and Lizzy would appear and help out, but they would disappear again before she had a chance to have an actual conversation. "Hello, lambkins." Mira looked up from rearranging the cake selections and stifled a groan. "Hello, Mr. Morgan. Please don't call me lambkins." He puffed up a bit, the yellow jacket bunching around his waist. The jacket was garish all on its own, but with the red shirt and pants, it was bright. Howard resembled an oversized parrot. "Are you still engaged?" She sighed and put her hands on her hips. "Yes." His doughboy face fell and he hung his head. The sunlight glinted off his bald spot. Poor guy. He was cute in a crestfallen sort of way. She wished she could make him feel better Chapter 4

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without encouraging his too ardent affections. "Here are your pies, darling," Nick said smoothly, putting the cherry cobblers on the table with a flourish. Startled, Mira looked at Nick. Darling? Belatedly she remembered he'd engaged himself to her a week ago. "Thank you, er, honey." "No kiss?" Nick asked. He swept her into his arms and dipped her, brushing his warm lips over hers. Her body chilled, then heated. Delightful shivers scurried up her spine. He kissed her again, his mouth skimming over her jaw line and down her neck. Mira clutched his shoulders. "Nick." He looked at her, his gaze hungry. She forgot to breathe as she stared at him. He was pretending to want her for Howard's sake−−she knew that, but her knees didn't because they felt wobbly. Nick straightened, drawing her close to him. "Howard. Good to see you again." Howard sighed. "I suppose I'll be seeing you both at the fireworks." "Mira and I create our own fireworks," Nick said in a low, just−between−lovers voice. Even though Nick's tone did weird things to her insides, she sent him a warning look. He was taking the fiancé charade a little too far. Then she turned to Howard. "You see, I Chapter 4

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don't−−" "It's okay. I'll be here when he leaves you." Howard scowled at Nick, apparently intending to look ferocious, but to Mira, he looked more like a lost puppy who didn't know how to growl. Howard left, but Nick didn't release her. He gathered her close and she smelled his musky cologne as she was pressed against his chest. She counted to 16, then he let her go. His smile was warm, and his gaze had lost the fierce need she'd seen earlier. "You think that did the trick?" It took a moment for her to find her voice. "Yes." He seemed on the verge of saying something else, but a feminine southern drawl interrupted. "Hello, Nick." Mira frowned as she saw Cynthia Rodham slither up to the booth. "Hello, Cyndy," Mira said, suddenly feeling very plain in her pink dress and flat shoes. Cynthia, as usual, looked ravishing; she was dressed in a pair of white shorts and polo shirt. Her long red hair curled perfectly around her beautiful face. "Cynthia," Nick said. Mira noticed his gaze drifting across Cynthia's abundant breasts. Chapter 4

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"I thought you might like to play some games. You can win me a teddy bear." Her full lips curved in a blatant invitation. Mira resisted rolling her eyes. She couldn't believe Cyndy was actually batting her lashes. She looked at Nick. "Go on and have some fun. Thanks for helping." He frowned, looked at Cynthia, then shrugged. "I'll be back to help you close up, okay?" Disappointment flared, then she shook off the feeling. Did she actually think he would choose working a cake booth with her over playing games with Cynthia "Va−va−voom" Rodham? Hah! She must be crazy. "Don't bother. Angel and Lizzy will help." He squeezed her shoulder. "I said I'll be back. Six o'clock?" She nodded, then watched as Cynthia wasted no time oozing over to Nick and claiming his arm. They walked toward the carnival games. Mira rearranged all the items on the table, then dropped into the folding chair. For once, she wanted to leave work behind and go have some fun. Shaking her head, she resisted laughing at herself. She knew her lot in life−−baker, PTA President, and housekeeper. Men like Nick Kade went for women like Cynthia. Mira got men like Howard. "Stop that, Mira Millridge. You are not feeling sorry for yourself. You're going to have fun selling these cakes!" She stood, prepared to sell a dozen items to eager customers. Chapter 4

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Unfortunately, no one seemed interested in buying anything baked. Around two o'clock, Angel and Lizzy appeared. "Hey, Mom. How's it going?" Angel's hair had lost the red food coloring look. She'd chosen to wear a simple pair of stud earrings and no make−up. She wore a white T−shirt and jeans with a pair of high tops. Mira felt her daughter's forehead. "What happened? Are you okay? Where's that purple thing you were wearing?" "Mo−ther, cut it out. I'm fine. I just felt like changing, okay?" Mira peered at her daughter's eyes. Solemn and sincere. Big trouble there. Mira looked at Lizzy, whose appearance was toned−down, too. "What's going on?" Angel and Lizzy exchanged a look that made Mira nervous. Then Angel shrugged. "Why don't you go have some fun? Lizzy and I can watch the booth." "What?" "We'd better tell her," Angel said. She pointed to a tree by the mayor's dunking tank. "See that guy over there? He was asking about you. He's from Oklahoma City and he's real nice." A tall, distinguished man in crisp black pants and a long−sleeved crème shirt leaned Chapter 4

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against the tree. He waved and smiled. Mira waved, then turned to Angel. "Have you been talking to strange men about me?" "Talking? Um, no. He's not strange. Just go meet him. Mom you haven't been on a date in months." "You shouldn't be paying attention," Mira said. "Go tell him I'm very sorry, but I can't meet him." "C'mon, Mom." Angel's gaze was pleading. "His name is William Jacobs. Take a break. You don't have to marry him for Pete's sake." Mira glanced at the man, who was watching her. "Are you sure he's from Oklahoma? He's wearing winter clothes and it's hot." "Skin condition," Lizzy said. "Oh." The booth was deserted, she was tired, and the girls were giving their best "aw shucks" looks. She thought about how Cyndy had curled her arm around Nick's and rubbed against him like a cat that found a big bowl of cream. What would it hurt to meet Mr. Jacobs? "All right." Chapter 4

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"Don't worry about us," said Angel. Mira took off her apron and fluffed her hair. Then she approached the man waiting for her. Up close, William Jacobs wasn't as handsome as she first thought. His eyes were a dull brown, his teeth a little too white, and his hair looked fake. His smile was pleasant, though. "Hello, Mr. Jacobs. I'm Mira Millridge." "A lyrical name, my dear. Please call me William." "William, then. Would you like to play a game?" She gestured toward the dunk tank. He looked so horrified, Mira felt as though she should apologize. Donald used to make her feel that way, as if everything was her fault. If she'd been a better housekeeper, or wife or lover, he would have never left her for another woman. At a loss, she smiled, and twisted her hands. "How about an ice cream cone?" "Okay." He took her elbow and guided her to the ice cream stand. She asked for a vanilla scoop with sprinkles and William got a plain chocolate cone after being told Cupa−Mocha−Java−Chino wasn't on the menu. He paid, she thanked him, and they walked to a picnic table. "Let's cut to the chase. Someone who likes to cook and clean and take care of her husband is just what I need." Chapter 4

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What? She looked at William. His face narrowed to a point and his eyes were small black beads. "Mira, you're everything I want in a woman." The ice cream in her mouth lost its flavor. The cone with the goofy colored sprinkles trembled. She grasped it tighter. "Of course, your daughter will go boarding school because our social schedule will not include time for her." "Excuse me?" "Your life will be very comfortable with me and I'll provide for your offspring. Would you consider having another child?" William sounded like he was negotiating to buy a piece of property. Last week, she had no prospects of dating at all, then this week, she gets two kooks. She preferred celibacy. The ice cream dripped onto her hand. William noticed and frowned. "Very messy, my dear. Perhaps we should dispose of your cone." "Yes, perhaps we should." Mira stood, gripping the cone so hard, it cracked. William's patronizing smile turned to shock as the cone fell into his lap. Candy sprinkles rained onto Chapter 4

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the ground. "I'm very sorry," she said, trying hard to feel apologetic. Yet she wasn't the least bit sorry the ice cream was now melting over his crotch. William blinked, looking from her to his pants. He stood and the ice cream cone tumbled under the picnic table. "You'll have to be more careful, Mira, especially as my wife." "Your wife?" Was there a Gotta−Marry−Mira contagion floating around Mirror Falls? "You know very well how much I'm willing to pay. My secretary wrote it in the last correspondence." "I don't know what you're talking about. And even if I did−−I'm not for sale. At any price." Mira marched away, feeling oddly liberated. She'd spent three years building a life that did not include her husband. She wouldn't spend a precious moment of hard−earned freedom on a man like William Jacobs. When she returned to the booth, the girls were staring at her open−mouthed. Something that looked like respect glimmered in their eyes. "Whoa, Mom. What did he say?" "You were spying on me, young lady." Chapter 4

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Angel shrugged. "I was making sure he was being a gentlemen." "He wanted to...purchase a wife." Mira felt as though she'd won some kind of battle. Exhilaration raced through her. "You girls scoot. I'll finish the shift." "One jerk doesn't mean the whole male population should suffer," Angel said. "Of course not," Mira agreed. She paused. "What does that mean?" Another secretive look was shared between the girls. Angel smiled. "Okay. See you later." "Honey−−I really like your new look. It's very real." Mira watched Angel slouch down and shrug. "Thanks. We gotta go." As they left, Mira saw Lizzy nudge Angel and say, "I told you that's what he meant." Then they disappeared into the growing crowd of people. Mira bit her lip, wondering if her daughter was planning something for her birthday tomorrow. Then she wondered if Angel would take her compliment about her clothing as a direct assault and retaliate by borrowing Lizzy's eyebrow ring. She didn't want to think about it. Instead she spent the rest of the afternoon selling items and taking orders for Christmas. By the time six o'clock came, she was looking forward to a hot bath and good Chapter 4

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book. Nick appeared−−without Cyndy. She greeted him with a smile, then noticed his clothes were slightly askew and his hair tousled. Her relief turned cold. Mira wiped her finger across his cheek and showed him the frosted pink lipstick. "It's not really your shade." He had the decency to look uncomfortable. "She attacked me." "I'm sure you fought her tooth and nail." "It wasn't like that, Mira." She held up her hand. "I don't want to hear the details." She turned and began packing up the leftover items. Nick helped, but she ignored him. What was this hot, vulgar emotion sneaking through her? Exhaustion. That was all. She closed her eyes, trying to soak up a calm moment. She smelled the sweet honeysuckle, heard the rustle of wind−blown leaves, felt the breeze caress her cheek. Feeling better, she opened her eyes and found herself staring at a tall man with a kind smile. His wavy dark hair was collar−length, his frame well built, and his eyes matched the perfect blue of the sky. "Mira?" He asked in resonant voice. "Yes?" Chapter 4

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"I'm Zack Sinclair. Your date."

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Chapter 5 "EXCUSE ME?" Nick heard Mira's confusion. Another unwanted suitor? He stepped forward and offered his hand. "Hi. Nick Kade. I'm Mira's f−−" He grunted with pain when she stomped on his foot. Man, those sensible shoes packed a wallop. Zack shook his hand heartily, unaware of Mira's action. "Friend. Nick's my friend," she said. Nick looked at her in amazement. But she wasn't looking at him, no, she was too fascinated by this Zack person. And Zack appeared to like what he saw, too. Nick frowned. He was a little young, mid−twenties, maybe. "Where are you from, Zack?" he asked. The man turned to Nick with a smile. "Tulsa. I'm an artist." Who was this Sinclair fellow? Back off, Kade. Mira wouldn't go out with a guy this young. So why did Nick feel an insane urge to wrap his arms around Mira and tell the guy to go find his own girl? "I'm sorry, Mr. Sinclair, but I didn't realize we had a date." Her brows furrowed. "Did Chapter 5

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my daughter send you over here?" "Yes, she did. But I know you already, Mira." Zack walked around the table and took one of Mira's slim hand. "My eyes feast upon your beauty...your light feeds my hungry soul." Nick watched as Mira blushed prettily. Poetic son of a bitch. He cleared his throat. "What's going next? The pies?" "I can finish up, Nick," Mira said. He purposely ignored the hint. He wasn't leaving. Not yet. He picked up two pies and headed to the minivan. When he returned, Zack had obviously offered to help, too, because he was picking up a basket of cookies. As soon as Mr. Perfect left, Nick dragged Mira over by the raffle booth. "What are you doing?" she asked. "What am I doing? What do you know about this guy? He could be a serial killer. Or a rapist. Or murderer." Mira stared at him. "Nick, what in the world has gotten into you? Zack Sinclair seems like a nice young man." "You are not seriously considering going out with him, are you? He's must be ten−years−old." Chapter 5

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He almost heard her teeth grind as she set her jaw. "You appointed yourself my fiancé. But it's not a real engagement, so stop acting like it is." Her accusation held a thread of truth. It stopped him cold. "That's ridiculous." They stared at each other, and Nick had an insane urge to kiss away the mutinous set of her lips. But he'd tasted Mira twice now, and a third time would be disaster to his libido. He was attracted to her, damn it. No. He wasn't interested in her. Not a bit. He hadn't dated much since the accident over a year ago, and Mira was merely the object of his frustrated desires. Never mind that cute little dip in her cheek or those nine freckles sprinkled across her nose. Oh hell. When had he counted her freckles? "I'll leave you two alone, then," Nick finally said, pivoting on his heel. "But the fiancé gig is up. I'm sure Howard will be thrilled with the news." MIRA WATCHED Nick leave. What was his problem? She knew he wasn't truly attracted to her. His kisses had set her on fire, but he'd walked away easily enough. She didn't understand why he would be so antagonistic of Zack. She had no intention of dating him. And now that a third man she didn't know appeared to know her, she was beginning to suspect a certain fifteen−year−old of some serious matchmaking. Chapter 5

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She returned to the booth and finished clearing off the table. Zack offered to buy her an ice cream cone, but she declined. Instead, she agreed to go with him for hot dogs with relish. They talked until it was time for the fireworks. Zack was a commercial artist working for Tulsa Magazine. He was polite and sweet, and so very earnest. After they watched the fireworks, Zack walked Mira to the minivan. She leaned against the driver's side door. He stood close to her and Mira pushed him away. "What are you doing?" "Kissing you." "Are you crazy? I'm too old for you." "No, you're not." "Okay. You're too young for me." He tugged at his ear lobe, then nodded. "Maybe in a few more years?" She laughed. "Probably not." "I'd still like to see you again." Deep inside she wished it was Nick who had uttered the desire to see her again. Mira shook her head. "Zack, I don't know what's going on, but like I told you earlier, I didn't write those letters. I'm sorry you came all this way for nothing." Chapter 5

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"It wasn't for nothing," he said. He kissed her cheek. "Thanks for a nice time." After he left, Mira unlocked the van and started to climb inside. She wanted to be alone with her thoughts, and was grateful her daughter had gone home with Lizzy. She did not want to endure a twenty−question session about Zack. The dome light reflected a fuzzy visitor who had usurped her seat. She stared at the red bear. "What in the world?" Nick. Mira smiled, feeling giddy. He'd won her a teddy bear. She shouldn't have been so pleased. WHEN SHE pulled into the driveway, Mira finally let exhaustion overwhelm her. It was past eleven o'clock and tomorrow was her birthday. And Angel had a dance recital first thing in the morning. She needed a hot, bubble bath and sleep. Lots of sleep. Yawning, she exited the car and had barely shut the door when Nick pulled up in a black Jeep. "I thought you might need some help," he said gruffly. Mira shook her head. "I'm so tired, I'm not even going to argue with you about helping me." She opened the van's back doors. Nick delivered the items from the minivan to the kitchen where Mira put them away. Chapter 5

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Soon everything was done. Mira offered Nick some iced tea, but he declined. They stood in the kitchen, listening to the clock tick, and Mira wondered why Nick had shown up at all and why he wasn't leaving now. She twisted her hands. "Nick..." "Hmmm?" "Thanks for agreeing to marry me. You took a big risk." His brows rose. "Risk?" "From dying of fatal embarrassment." The joke fell flat. Heat crept into her cheeks. "This is a small town. Everyone knows what happened with my ex−husband, Donald." She saw his frown, and realized he must not have heard the story about how Mira, poor soul, had not been able to keep her husband. She hadn't done a thing right and he'd finally left her. She didn't want to talk about the day Donald had left. In a Corvette. With a blonde whose bust rivaled the watermelons old Davis Mackenzie grew. "Look, Nick..." she stopped, when his green eyes flashed with comprehension. So he had heard the story. "Your ex−husband was a fool." Surprise flooded her. Nick crossed to her, placed his hands on her shoulders. He studied her, unsmiling, until she squirmed under his perusal. "Mira," he said, "You're a wonderful Chapter 5

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woman. You're kind and generous and a good mother." "A regular Betty Crocker and Donna Davis rolled into one. That's me." His gaze darkened. "What's wrong with who you are?" "Nothing." Mira shook off his hands and stepped away. His proximity did funny things to her stomach. She smelled his earthy, masculine scent, felt the warmth on her skin where his hands had been. Her body felt hot, tingly. Mira rubbed the back of her neck, refusing to look at Nick. "How about a shoulder rub?" Before she could say no, Nick was behind her, his hands working magical circles. Kneading out the kinks, smoothing away tightness, helping her relax. She sighed deeply and leaned into the massage. Slowly, Mira became aware of the change in Nick's touches, how his fingers stroked long lines down her back and up her arms. His warm breath stirred the hair at the nape of her neck. She stilled, afraid he wouldn't move−−afraid he would. An eon passed, then Nick's hands trailed up her ribcage, stopping under her breasts. She felt the barest touch of his fingers. Her gasp was sharp. "You are sexy," Nick whispered. His lips found the curve of her neck, and his tongue Chapter 5

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traced a path to her ear. "Tell me to stop." Mira couldn't do what he asked, instead she turned in his arms and pressed against his chest. Her heart doubled its already frantic beat as he lowered his mouth. "Damn it," he murmured. Then his lips covered hers. His mouth was warm and tasted like coffee. When he teased her with his tongue, heat speared her. She felt drugged as her hands sought the firm muscles of his chest, then crept higher to trace his collarbone. Her fingers slid into the soft thickness of his hair. And plain, ordinary Mira Millridge deepened the kiss, pulling Nick closer, meeting his desire with her own. His groan sent sparks dancing down her spine. She felt shattered and whole at the same time. "Mira, I..." Nick pulled away, his heated gaze filled with a hunger that weakened her knees. Then Nick released her and retreated across the kitchen, looking as though she was a rabid dog who had just bitten him. "Nick, what is it?" She didn't recognize her own voice. It sounded husky, feminine, and...sexy. His face looked almost horrified as he stared at her. Uneasiness crept over Mira. She watched him run a hand through his hair. Chapter 5

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"I'm sorry. That shouldn't have happened." It shouldn't have happened? Was he crazy? She hadn't felt this alive since−−since never! "We're both consenting adults, Nick. Why would..." The cold realization swept away her foolish desire. Of course. Nick wasn't attracted to her at all. He was being kind. Trying to show Mira her own sensuality. Oh God. She closed her eyes and leaned against the counter. How could she have been so stupid? She opened her eyes. "It's okay, Nick. You don't have to explain." Her chest constricted. She must have done something wrong, but everything had felt so right. "I'm your daughter's teacher. You said it yourself, this is a small town. We couldn't have any kind of intimate relationship without everyone knowing." He shot her an impatient glance. "And it's not because I'd be embarrassed, but to protect you and Angel." "So you get to decide whether or not we have sex based on your macho protect−the−helpless−female rhetoric?" Mira clenched her fists. "Maybe I want sex. No strings." Even as she said it, Mira knew pleasure for the sake of pleasure would never be enough, she knew her own heart too well. No matter what she told Nick, she couldn't have a fling, Chapter 5

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her emotions would surely get tangled into the sex. She wasn't sophisticated enough to keep sex at a basic level. And where Nick was concerned, she knew hurt would be swift and deep, whether he wanted it to or not. He must have seen the truth in her eyes because he smiled. "You're a forever woman," he said. "Yes," she whispered. "You'd better go, Nick." "Mira..." "Please. Go." She saw his jaw clench, then he nodded, and left the kitchen. Mira stared at the teddy bear sitting near the cookie jar. Its garish red fur set it apart from the perfectly decorated yellow−and−white−only kitchen with plants in the window. Moments passed, then she heard the front door shut. The solid click echoed through the house. Funny, it sounded a lot like the breaking of her heart.

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Chapter 6 SATURDAY DAWNED gray and sickly, and Mira was glad the moody Oklahoma weather was in sync with her own. She'd spent a horrible, restless, frustrated night due to Nick's ravishing kiss. The doorbell rang and Mira burrowed under the covers. She wasn't leaving bed today, she thought. She wasn't leaving bed ever again. The doorbell dinged two more times and Mira groaned. She almost called out to have Angel answer the door when she remembered her elusive daughter had spent another night at Lizzy's. If she didn't know better, she'd think Angel was avoiding her. Bing Bong. Bing Bong. Bing Bong. "All right!" Mira huffed as she scrambled out of bed. She slipped into her pink house shoes, put on a robe, and steadfastly ignored the red bear that had somehow found its way into her bed last night. She shuffled to the door and flung it open. If it was Howard, she was putting him on the murders−to−commit list. A short man with gray hair and a pencil thin moustache smiled at her. He held roses in one hand and box of candy in another. Chapter 6

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"Rat's tails," she muttered. This scene looked familiar. "Mira Millridge," he said in a timid voice. "I'm Thaddeus Rochester Meyers the Third." "Let me guess," she said. "I wrote you a letter and you want to marry me." He stepped back. "We haven't had our first date, yet." "We're not going to," Mira said. Just what in heck was going on here? Men had been crawling out of the woodwork lately. Could Angel really have...no, surely not. Thaddeus licked his almost nonexistent lips. "We're suppose to have breakfast at the Walmack Inn. I made reservations." "They have great waffles. Enjoy." She started to close the door, but Thad shoved the roses into the gap. "You don't like breakfast?" Were all men this dense or just the ones who wanted to date her? Mira stepped onto the porch, steered Thad to the steps, looked at the car parked in the driveway, and said, "Get in your Gremlin, Thad, and go." He looked back at her. "I must say this isn't what I expected." "Me, either." "You want me to leave?" Chapter 6

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"Yes. I'm sorry that you came from wherever to not marry me." "Perhaps I could come back later?" Mira sighed. "You aren't, by chance, related to someone named Howard Morgan, are you?" "No." He shook his head. "Mother so wants to meet you. She's waiting for us at the restaurant." The man had brought his mother on a date? Something inside Mira broke. She didn't want Thad or his mother showing up at her door. Her porch would get crowded with them and Howard on it. So she latched on to the lie that worked so well before. "I'm engaged, Thad." He peered up at her. "Really?" "My fiancé's name is Nick Kade. And he's big. Huge. And jealous." She sized up Thad. "He'd snap you like a twig." "Mother will be very disappointed." His gaze darted around as he scurried off the porch. "And really, you shouldn't be dating if you're engaged." "Thanks for the tip." He flung a card onto the porch. "Here's the card you told me to give you. I'm giving the Chapter 6

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roses and candy to Mother." Thad got into the Gremlin, gunned the engine, and sped off. Mira leaned on the porch railing, counted to 132, inhaled the damp morning air, and felt a smidgen better. Then she opened the card. "Happy Birthday, Mom! By now, you've gotten part of my birthday present to you. I wanted to give you something special, so I arranged for you to go on several dates. Think of these experiences as your own personal version of the dating game. "I hope you find someone to love as much as I love you. You deserve the best." Mira was torn between disbelief and a strange happiness. Her daughter loved her. Wait a sec. Her daughter had set her up on blind dates from hell. How many more men would appear on her doorstep? And the letters they all kept talking about...the personals! "Hello, dearie!" Mira looked at the gray−haired woman hurrying into the yard. Mrs. Bitsinger was a nice woman, who loved gossip more than anything. Right now, Mira didn't want to hear what Bobby Joe Feldins did to his papa's brand new tractor nor did she want to hear what Chapter 6

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happened at Patty's Beauty Shop and Boutique yesterday. She wanted to go back to bed and stay there. Instead she greeted her elderly neighbor. The woman's eyes glinted. "Oh, my dear. I couldn't help but hear you toss that gentlemen on his ear, poor soul." Mrs. Bitsinger held up a spade and gardening gloves. "I was working on the rose bushes, and I just couldn't help...Nick Kade! Of all the men in Mirror Falls he certainly is the handsomest. You lucky thing! Now, have you talked to Betty Mae Callins about your dress? She's the best seamstress in town, you know. And for the chapel, we'll have to do orchids. I love orchids. When did you say the date was?" Mira's head whirled. "The date of what?" Mrs. Bitsinger beamed. "Why your wedding, of course!" NICK HEARD the phone ring, checked the caller ID, and sighed. Mira. She was probably going to give him an earful for leaving. Or not leaving fast enough. The phone shrilled again, and Nick left the room. He'd judge from her message on the answering machine just how angry she was with him. The machine kicked on, then Mira's voice filtered into the living room. Chapter 6

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"We have to talk. Angel's recital is in twenty minutes. Meet me at Ms. Fancy's Dance Emporium at 11 a.m." Her breathless, panicked voice clawed at him. He lunged for the phone. "Mira? Are you all right?" "No, I'm not all right. I'm sick of being proposed to all the time and of strange men showing up on my doorstep." "Sweetheart, you're not making any sense. Slow down, okay?" The endearment slipped out, but he realized Mira heard it. Her intake of breath was followed by a long pause. Finally, she said, "I'll explain everything at the recital. Can you be there?" "Yes." The phone clicked and Nick stared at the receiver for several seconds before hanging up. He didn't know what had happened last night. He hadn't meant to let things get so heated, but Mira was intoxicating...for a perfectionist, bun−wearing, sensible shoes PTA President. He'd like to meet dear old Donald−−and punch the jerk's lights out. How could Mira not realize her own potent sexuality? How could she think he'd be embarrassed to be linked with her? God, it was ridiculous. Her trembling vulnerability had drawn him to her. He'd wanted to soothe her, to show her...well, that had been a mistake. He had no right to let her Chapter 6

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to believe he wanted a relationship. Love and commitment were tools of control, illusions to make you do what other people wanted. Hadn't his Aunt Jane taught him that bitter lesson? Love risked more than the heart, it risked the soul. And Nick had paid a price to own his soul. When Nick arrived at the Emporium, he entered the building through the heavy brass doors, and peered down the hall. People entered behind him and Nick moved to the side to allow them to pass. A female teacher who worked at the high school stopped and wagged her finger at him. "Nick Kade! You naughty boy. You should have told us. It's wonderful! Mira must be thrilled!" "I suppose so," Nick said. "I guess you'll be taking some time off." "What for?" She laughed. "You better not let Mira hear you say that. I hear she's pretty handy with a butcher knife." The woman squeezed his arm and left. Nick watched the group move down the hall. Then he caught sight of Mira rushing toward him. She wore a short, white dress and sandals. Her toenails were painted a sensible pink. Chapter 6

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She'd worn her hair down, and it draped her shoulders. For a moment he was struck by the image of the tree nymph−−the one he'd imagined when he'd found Mira in the oak tree. "Nick!" His name was a rush of relief from her lips, but Nick wanted to hear her call his name in passion. Need tightened him. What was wrong with him? He wasn't going to seduce prim and proper Mira Millridge, despite the fact that he very much wanted to. She took his arm and dragged him down the wide hall, through a dark, musty−smelling corridor, and into a tiny room. "The recital starts in five minutes," she said. "Something terrible happened this morning." Nick covered her trembling hands. "What?" "Another man showed up at my door claiming to have a date with me. I, er, put him off by saying I had a fiancé." She nibbled her lips, her dark eyes pleading with him. For what? Foreboding bloomed in his stomach. "I know you said the fiancé sham was over. But I didn't know that Mrs. Bitsinger was standing behind her rose bushes listening." "Mrs. Bitsinger?" Nick sucked in a breath. The foreboding felt leaden. "The woman who headlines news faster than CNN?" Chapter 6

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Mira nodded. "Nick, I'm sorry. I really, truly am." He made the leap. "She thinks we're getting married." "I couldn't untangle myself long enough to explain it was a rouse and the next thing I know, she's arranged a dress fitting and has ordered orchids for the church." "Why didn't you tell her the truth?" Mira's cheeks flushed and Nick tried not to think how lovely it made her look. He should be furious with her. "I didn't want to admit I'd lied to Thaddeus Rochester the Third," Mira confessed. "How would you feel about 'breaking up' before the wedding day." "We have a wedding day?" "The twentieth. Of this month." Nick cursed. "That's next Saturday." He should be feeling a lot worse than he did just now. He should be angry that Mira had carried the charade so far, but Nick couldn't work up sufficient anger. He felt...relieved. That didn't make sense. He frowned. "Okay, Mira. We'll break up before the big day, but you're in charge of the theatrics." "Thank you, Nick." Her brown−eyed gaze softened. Damn. Her vulnerability, again. The gratitude in her Chapter 6

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dark eyes wrapped around him, and he wanted to kiss that look right off her face. He didn't want her gratitude. He wanted her naked, writhing, and coming apart in his arms. He felt bereft when Mira released his arm. She looked at her watch. "I've got to go, Angel's next." "May I come along?" "Sure." Nick heard the surprise in her voice. Yeah, well, he was surprised, too. But he wanted to be near Mira for just awhile longer. She smiled, and opened the door. He followed her into the auditorium. They found seats in the third row just as the curtain rose. Angel, free of her usual dark make−up, was dressed in a plain black leotard and tights. She danced a jazzy, fast tune that had the audience applauding. Pride shone on Mira's face, and Nick felt a stirring of...what? Angel was a terrific kid and Mira was a terrific mother. Recognizing excellence in people didn't mean personal attachment. Yeah, right, Kade. After a fourth grade rendition of "Swan Lake" and a somewhat awkward tango performed by two junior high kids, the program ended. "Let's go back stage and congratulate her," Mira said. "And I need to discuss my birthday presents with her." Chapter 6

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"It's your birthday?" "Yes. And all those men who keep showing up? They're courtesy of Angel." "She got you a bunch of weirdos for your birthday?" "She meant well," defended Mira. "She did it out of love." Nick guided Mira out into the aisle, and they weaved through the milling people. Just as they reached the double doors that led to back area, Nick heard, "There are the lovebirds now." Mira tensed, then turned around, her troubled gaze colliding with his. He took her hand and held it tightly. "Hello, darlings," Mrs. Bitsinger trilled as she marched toward them. "Mira, we must speak about the photographer. And I talked to Sarah at the Walmack Inn. She can host the reception. Isn't this wonderful?" "Peachy," Mira muttered. "Nick, you lucky man! Our Mira is quite a catch. Good thing you snatched her up when you did. I heard she's had men just knock, knock, knocking at her door!" "Yes, er," Nick noticed Mrs. Bitsinger's smile had the force of laser beam. It was bright and steady and aimed right at him. Mira looked as stunned as he felt. Chapter 6

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Mrs. Bitsinger stood in front of them, her hands on her hips, looking at Mira then Nick with narrowed eyes. "We'll need pictures of the reception, too, I think. Nick, do you like purple? I'm terribly fond of purple...do you like orchids?" "What?" Nick asked, staring at the tiny, elderly woman. She looked remarkably like a Drill Sergeant−−especially in that peach hat covered with baby's breath. "She's a black hole," Mira warned in low voice. "She'll suck you in and your will to live disappears." "Of course, Angel will be the maid of honor," Mrs. Bitsinger was saying. Her bird−like gaze landed on him. "Who will be the best man?" Sweat broke out on his brow. He leaned down and said, "Let's run for it." "It's not going to be that easy," Mira whispered. "The hell it's not." A crowd of women formed behind Mrs. Bitsinger. Some held bridal magazines like shields. Where in blazes had they all come from? Nick eyed the old lady in front of them with a growing respect. The sergeant had called in the troops. "I've gathered a few of the girls to discuss the wedding arrangements. Mira, do you have a few hours? We need to choose the music. How do you feel about the harpsichord?" Chapter 6

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"What are you waiting for?" Mira hissed in his ear. "Run!" And Nick did, pulling his fake bride after him.

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Chapter 7 MIRA SAT as primly as possible in the diner's booth. The cracked vinyl seat wasn't comfortable, and it didn't help Nick had squeezed beside her. She pressed closer to the wall, trying to get away from Nick's thigh. He wore shorts, and the warmth from his flesh crept through her dress. Sweat trickled between her breasts even though the air conditioner vent above their heads emitted ice−cold air. She didn't know why he'd sat next to her instead of across from her. He seemed to get a perverse pleasure in scooting closer and watching her squirm. "You're too close. You're making me hot." Too late she realized how her words sounded and she wanted to snatch them back. "I won't bite you," Nick said, then he leaned over and nipped her bare shoulder. An arrow of heat shot to her very core. She looked at him in shock. A wicked grin lit his features. "So I lied." Mira closed her eyes, counted to 90, then opened them. She found him watching her. His thick−lashed green eyes had flecks of gold around the pupils. Beautiful tiger−eyes. He smiled and she finally managed to tear her gaze away from his only to find it riveted to Chapter 7

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Nick's sexy, full lips. "Were you muttering numbers again? Why do you do that?" "It calms me. I count, so I don't react." Mira frowned. Why had she admitted that to him? She straightened. "It's better than cussing." A dark brow arched. "Have you ever cussed, Mira? A good four−letter word goes a long way toward making you feel better." "Counting works for me." His low, deep laugh did funny things to her stomach. She sipped on her tepid iced tea, just so she wouldn't have to look at Nick anymore. "My little persnickety Mira," Nick drawled, leaning against the seat. His muscled, tan arm slid along the worn wood edge of the booth until she felt his fingers in her hair. His touch was light and disturbing. "C'mon," Nick said. "Say 'damn' for me." "No." "Hell?" Mira rolled her eyes. "It's not necessary to use expletives to get across emotion." "Don't tell me...you use doo−doo and fudge, right?" His amusement made his words tremble. "Oh darn. Rats. For Gosh Sakes." Chapter 7

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She raised her chin. "Fiddlesticks does just fine." "So does fu−−" "Nick!" His laugh was a roar this time and she wanted to crawl underneath the table and hide. Instead she sipped the dratted iced tea and ignored Nick's merriment. "They'll find us in here," she said. "There are only two eating establishments in the entire town. We can't hide here forever." "True. But we need nourishment if we're going to fend off Mrs. Bitsinger." He eased back, finally giving her some room. "Doesn't she remind you of rabid terrier?" Mira laughed, relieved Nick had backed off. She shifted, grimacing when the vinyl stuck to her legs. Her short dress was useless protection against the seat. "Hello, lambkins." Mira looked up and sighed. "Howard." Without invitation, the bulky man slid into the booth. His hound−dog features looked pasty in the bad light of the diner. "Still getting married?" "Yes," Nick said in an over−friendly voice. "So watch calling my fiancé those cutesy Chapter 7

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names, okay?" Surprised to hear the possessive edge in his voice, Mira turned to Nick. He put his arm around her shoulders, fiddling with the spaghetti strap of her dress. The warm, lazy strokes tingled her skin. Howard looked affronted. "She was mine first." "Oh for Gosh Sakes!" Mira slanted a look toward Nick and saw his smirk. "Look, Howard, it's just that−−" "Nickie−poo, why didn't you mention this little engagement yesterday?" Cynthia's bright pink lips were pouty with accusation. Mira grimaced as the voluptuous redhead slid into the booth next to Howard. Cyndy looked ravishing in another outfit from the "ManEaters R Us" store. Mira expected Nick to jerk his hand away at the sight of his tussle partner, but he continued the soft touches, slipping a forefinger under the strap. "Nickie−poo?" she inquired. He shrugged, then looked at Cyndy. "I'm afraid you didn't give me the chance. How did you find out?" "Mrs. Bitsinger's done everything but print flyers about the grand event. I guess that's Chapter 7

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why you didn't take me up on my invitation," Cyndy said. "Too bad for you." Mira sucked in a breath. Why that little...if Mira had really been Nick's fiancé Cyndy's comments would be inexcusable. Fake fiancé or not, she wasn't allowing the tart to get away with such obnoxious behavior. Mira smiled, then trailed her fingers along Nick's jaw, stopping when she reached his lips. "You wouldn't cheat on me, would you, darling?" Nick's answer was a soft, gentle kiss. His eyes sparkled with amusement and...what else? "Never," he whispered. "Well," Howard huffed. "This is the most despicable display of love I've ever seen. I guess you two are in it for the long haul." Cyndy seemed to realize Howard's presence in the booth. She turned to him and Mira choked back a laugh. Howard's mouth hung open as he took in the redhead's beautiful face and body. Cyndy, on the other hand, seem to be assessing Howard's clothes and jewelry. She smiled winsomely. "Cynthia Rodham meet Howard P. Morgan," Mira said. "Howard sells insurance." "Veterinary insurance," he breathed, then leaned close to Cynthia's breasts. Not on purpose−−he was just too short to reach the woman's face. "Not many people realize how Chapter 7

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important it is to have coverage for your pets." "You sell insurance for dogs and cats?" Nick asked. He looked at Mira as if to say where did you get this guy? "Lizards, too," Howard said. "Say, Mira, do you−−" "No pets." His shoulders slumped. Cyndy shot Mira a veiled look, then patted Howard's dark purple jacket. "I have a cat." "You do?" "Her name is Nuzzles." Howard and Cynthia's gazes met, and Mira swore she heard the swell of soap opera music in the background. Or maybe it was the thwump of the air conditioning. "I don't suppose...you'd have, um, a drink w−with me?" Howard asked. Cyndy tilted her head as if trying to decide, then nodded. Without another look or word toward Mira and Nick, they slid out of the booth and left the diner. Mira and Nick burst out laughing. "I guess we've both been dumped," Mira said. "Poor Howard doesn't have a chance," Nick murmured. The look he gave Mira warmed her. "Quite a little show, sweetheart." Chapter 7

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The intent look in Nick's eyes belied the teasing tone of his voice. Mira felt as if she'd been swimming in a strong current and now the undertow was dragging her under. "I was merely responding her rudeness." "Uh−huh." Thankfully the food arrived and Mira concentrated on her chicken fried steak instead of Nick's disconcerting presence. Nick had raised his eyebrow when she'd placed her order, but said nothing. She imagined he disapproved of the fat−and−cholesterol combo. Well, to heck with him. Chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes dripping with homemade gravy, and thick, steamy biscuits were weaknesses of hers. "I can't believe you're eating that," Nick said, digging into his meatloaf. Mira bristled. "I eat what I like and I don't need a lecture from you about my diet. There are plenty of empty booths around if you don't want to watch me eat it." She shoveled a particularly huge, dripping bite into her mouth and chewed. "You look like a chipmunk," Nick said. "And before you stab me with your fork−−I'm not interested in your diet. I just figured you for the cottage cheese and fruit type. Your choice surprised me." "Oh." She chewed, barely able to swallow the meat. It finally went down and she cut a Chapter 7

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smaller bite. No reason to choke to death just to prove a point. "I don't eat fruit." Nick dropped his fork. An eyebrow rose. "You don't eat fruit. What about those cherry and apple pies you bake?" "I make them, I don't eat them." Moments passed as they ate in silence. Then Nick said, "Cantaloupe?" "No." "Watermelon and oranges?" "Nope." Mira bit into a biscuit, sighing at its hot, fresh taste. "Tangerines, blueberries, peaches?" "No." She looked at him, not understanding his sudden obsession with her dislike of fruit. "Are you okay with this or do I need to pay for a therapy session?" His brows dipped. "It's just strange." "Thanks so much. Look, it's almost time for the PTA garage sale." She savored the last bite of biscuit. "We're going to have to face Mrs. Bitsinger." "Kiwi?" "Nick!" "Okay, okay." He wiped his mouth with a paper napkin. "Hey, what about your Chapter 7

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birthday? Aren't you at least going to have cake?" "As long as it's not cherry." He grinned, then dotted her lips with the napkin. "Ready to go engage the Bitsinger army, sweetlins?" Mira groaned. "If you call me that again, I will stab you with my fork." THE ANNUAL PTA Garage Sale was held in the first month of school at Mrs. Teale's huge house on the outskirts of Mirror Falls. Everyone from town and bordering towns showed up for two reasons: to find a bargain and to hear the latest gossip. Angel and Lizzy set up tables, covering each with a vinyl tablecloth provided by Mrs. Teale. Angel still reeled from the news about her mother's engagement. "I can't believe it," Angel said. "My mom and Mr. Kade?" Lizzy poked her with a bony elbow. "I told you. Now what are you going to do with those other schmucks?" "We don't have to worry about Howard. Marcy saw him with Cyndy Rodham at the Walmack Inn, so maybe he's found a new obsession." Lizzy's mouth opened so fast, her requisite chewing gum fell out. "Cyndy..." She stuck Chapter 7

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her hands out in front of her chest and made rounding motions. "Rodham? I don't get it." "Me, either." Angel shrugged. "Maybe she uses his bald spot as a mirror. He's the right height. All she has to do is look down." They cracked up laughing−−hooting and holding their stomachs. Angel wiped the tears off her cheeks. "S−so that leaves Frank what's−his−face and the shoe salesman. What am I supposed to tell them?" "Say that your mother's engaged and to get lost." "Lizzy!" Her best friend shrugged, unrepentant. Angel watched her dig into a jean pocket and pull out a wrapped piece of gum, which popped into her mouth. Angel sighed. "For Pete's sake...how am I−−Omigod. It's him." Lizzy whirled around. "Who? Mr. Kade?" "No. Him." "Oh. Loverboy. I think I need to go do...something." Lizzy waved jauntily to Angel, then disappeared into the garage. Angel's heart pounded as the boy neared. He stopped, tucking his hands into his jean pockets. As he looked at her, a lock of brown hair fell across his forehead. Chapter 7

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"Hello, Angelica." His use of her full name always sent a delightful shiver through her. Angel leaned against the table, crossed her arms, and pretended to be bored. "Hi. What are you doing here?" His mouth quirked. "I live here, remember?" Angel flushed then ducked her head to hide her embarrassment. "So are you going to help or just sit around on your butt?" "Help," he said. He stepped closer and brushed her hair away from her cheek. Angel looked into his brown eyes and felt like she was going to melt into a big, goopy puddle. He leaned closer and she could smell the peppermint on his breath. "Angelica. I was wondering−−" "Yes?" "The dance is this Friday. And I know you're so cool and everything." His tone was teasing and nervous. "But I thought you might want−−" "Ned! Oh Ned, honey!" Mrs. Teale clicked down the driveway in her three−inch heels. "Could help me sticker the rest of the electrical items?" "Sure, Mom." He smiled at Angel, then shrugged. Chapter 7

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As Ned turned, she snagged his T−shirt. "What were you going to ask me?" "I'll ask you later." Angel watched Ned walk up the driveway with his mother. Her heart continued to race. Darn it. He'd been going to ask her to the dance and chickened out. She sighed. Why were boys such wimps? NICK CARRIED another box from Mira's garage and shoved it into the back of the minivan. Today was typical of August in Oklahoma: hot and muggy. He wiped the sweat from his forehead, then watched Mira tirelessly lug an armful of clothing to the car. She flashed him a grin, then returned to the garage. Nick inhaled, smelling fresh cut grass and honeysuckle. He and Mira seemed to be the only people outside. By the looks of it, everyone else had wisely decided to stay indoors. An odd quiet stole through the small neighborhood, making Nick feel as if he and Mira were only human beings left on Earth. Even the chirping birds seemed muted. Nick looked at Mira, who flitted around the garage like a butterfly in a field. So she didn't like fruit. She'd kept the silly red bear he'd won for her. She kissed like a goddess. He watched her bend over a stack of magazines and saw the white dress rise...rise...he Chapter 7

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swallowed as the material dangled over her derriere, swinging provocatively as she dug around in the pile of stuff. How could he lust for her like this? Hadn't he learned his lesson? Women like Mira were never satisfied. They needed perfection. She didn't even cuss. Yet when she turned, holding a gold candlestick holder as triumphantly as an Olympic athlete holding the Torch, he had an insane urge to flip up that damn dress and... "Do you want to take a break?" Nick called out. Mira put the candlestick in a carton and walked toward him. He took the box and put in the van for her. "Sorry, I don't have time," Mira said. She trudged around him, heading back to the garage. Nick grasped her by the elbows and drew her close. "You don't have to be Wonder Woman." Mira looked at him with such sadness, he felt sucker−punched. She sighed and leaned into the embrace, apparently accepting his comfort. Then she pulled away. "We need to go." Sweat dotted her neck and Nick watched a drop follow an invisible line into the top of her dress. God, just one taste. He'd just take one tiny taste of Mira. Before he could stop himself, he pressed his mouth at the hollow of her throat, and sipped from her. She inhaled Chapter 7

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sharply and clenched his shoulders. Nick nipped kisses up her neck, flicking his tongue on her warm skin. "Nick, please." "Please what?" he whispered. He pulled her closer, looking at her wide amber eyes. He lowered his head and traced her trembling lips. When his tongue demanded entrance, she yielded, and met him with her own tentative touches. Desire twisted inside him, a spiraling need that claimed him until all he could feel, all he could breathe was Mira. She broke the kiss and sagged against the back of the minivan. He put his arms on either side of her head and leaned down, feathering kisses along her jaw. "I want you, Mira," he said in a jagged voice. He took her lips in a fierce possession, showing her with his mouth what he wanted to do with her body. Her hungry little moan destroyed his already flagging willpower. Somehow his shirt had become unbuttoned and Mira's hot, eager hands stroked his chest. The reasonable voice in his head cited all the reasons he couldn't make love with Mira Millridge, but she chose that moment to explore the waistband of his shorts, and he forgot everything but the woman in his arms. "Hey, folks," a man's jolly voice chortled. Chapter 7

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Nick and Mira jumped apart as if electrocuted. Nick started to turn, to protect Mira's disheveled appearance from the rude bastard who'd spoken, then he realized his own hard evidence would be more difficult to hide. Mira peeped over his shoulder. "Oh dear." Nick turned, strategically placing Mira in front of him and looked at the balding, overweight man grinning at them. "Ya'll aren't even newlyweds yet," he said with a gleam in his eyes. "Better keep to hand holding in public, if you know what I mean." He winked. "Who the hell−−" Nick looked down at Mira's red face. "He isn't another suitor, is he?" She shook her head, seemingly unable to speak. Then she said, "No. He's the mayor."

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Chapter 8 "THE MAYOR," Nick repeated. "Mayor Richard Beeglemeyer," the man said, presenting a chubby hand. Nick maneuvered around Mira and accepted the Mayor's handshake. "Most folks call me Dick." "What can we do for you?" "Glad you asked, Nick, glad you asked. Because your impending nuptials have good timing. Perfect timing as a matter of fact." Uneasiness swept over Nick in a cold wave. The mayor's smile was wide and toothsome. What now? "As you all know, our esteemed Church of Mirror Falls was once a one−room schoolhouse. Why, our very founders were educated in that building." The Mayor paused, then flashed another terrifying smile. "Last summer, the City Council voted to restore the schoolhouse−−that's why we've been attending services in those tin can buildings." The mayor's explanation made no sense to Nick. He felt Mira's shoulders tense under his hands and looked at her suddenly pale face. Apparently she suspected the punch line of this joke. Chapter 8

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"It just so happens that the official opening of this historic site−−which will continue to be the Church for our fine citizens as well as a historic museum on the weekdays−−is on the very day of your wedding." "We'll be happy to give up the church," Mira said. "We're in no hurry to get married." Irritation pricked him. It sounded like Mira couldn't be rid of him fast enough. "After all, we have forever," Nick put in, caressing Mira's cheek. She sent him a confused look. Damn. What was he doing? This was an opportunity to stop the whole sham and he was being a complete ass about it. He looked at the mayor. "We'll postpone the wedding." The mayor's smile dimmed, then he cleared his throat. "Hmmm. Yes. Well...you see, the Council met this morning and decided the, er, wedding would actually be good publicity." "The Council met this morning?" Beeglemeyer had the grace to look uncomfortable. "It was an emergency meeting convened by the chair−−Mrs. Bitsinger. She seemed to think your wedding would be just the thing to get exposure for our historic monument." "Monument?" "Building," the Mayor hastily corrected. "You know, love of God, love of country, love for each other. It's a theme. Mrs. Bitsinger pointed out−−and rightly so−−that your wedding Chapter 8

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in the newly restored schoolhouse would be a good feature for big city media. They're always looking for a nice piece to offset those murders and beatings stories." "We're canceling the wedding," Mira said. "It's canceled." Nick felt her urgency, her panic. He felt a little nervous himself. The mayor flushed. "I, uh, hope you'll reconsider. See, Mrs. Bitsinger has a cousin who's a reporter for one of Tulsa's local television stations. They've latched onto the idea and will be sending a crew." "What!" Nick and Mira cried at the same time. "We...uh, perhaps, we jumped the gun a bit, but our dear Mrs. Bitsinger assured us you would love the idea." "I don't think so." Mira's voice was almost a screech. Nick calmed her by massaging her neck−−it also occupied his hands so he couldn't throttle the mayor. "Are you sure?" Beeglemeyer asked anxiously. "If that's your decision, I suppose you'd want us to call off the newspapers, too?" "Newspapers?" Nick asked. "Well, only the Tulsa and Oklahoma City dailies. Oh and The Mirror Falls Gazette,of course. That makes, three or four...maybe twenty." Chapter 8

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"You have a week to call them off," Nick said. "So this shouldn't be a problem." "Yes, well. In the interests of the City of Mirror Falls, we, er, moved your wedding day." "I thought you said it coincided with the day of our wedding," Mira whispered. "It did. After we moved it." "When?" Nick asked. The mayor reddened all the way to his ear tips. "Tomorrow evening. It will be quite lovely. The Council agreed to pick up part of the cost. Since you're getting married, anyway, what difference does it make when you do it?" Mira turned an astonished gaze on Nick. He felt as if someone had just run him over with bulldozer. "How can a town commandeer someone's wedding for their own purposes?" His voice shook and he cleared his throat. The mayor looked down at the cracks in the concrete driveway. "Well, son, it is an election year." "I HAVE TO tell them the truth," Mira declared. She paced back and forth in her living room. She flashed a look at Nick, who reclined on the couch rubbing his temples. God, how had they gotten into this mess? I will never lie again, she swore. Chapter 8

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Telling the truth would humiliate her. She stopped wearing tread in the carpet and closed her eyes. Oh no. Another example of how she wasn't good enough for a man. Another piece of gristle for Mirror Falls gossips. Why, that Mira Millridge had to lie to get a fiancé. And poor Nick, having to put up with all that kissing and pawing and...Maybe she should move to Tulsa. "Are you counting again?" Mira opened her eyes. "No. Just thinking." If the gossips had fodder to grow their stories, it was her fault. She'd compounded Nick's lie when she tried to use it to ward off Thad. She would just have to take her lumps like a woman. She'd survive. "I'm so sorry, Nick. I'll just admit that it's all a big sham." Nick stood and grasped her shoulders. "You are not going to be a victim, do you understand me?" "You think I'm acting like a victim?" Anger sharpened her tone and she stepped away from his touch. "I'm calling Mrs. Bitsinger right now and confessing." "I didn't mean you're acting like a victim, I meant I won't allow you to be a victim of these people. It's not your fault this whole town is crazy. We'll figure out something else." Mira didn't pull away, even though she knew she shouldn't enjoy the way his arms held Chapter 8

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her. She felt safe, protected. But Nick issued his directives like a General. Why did men think they had to control everything? Hadn't she spent the last three years learning to depend on herself? "If we don't do something quick, we'll find ourselves married tomorrow night," she said. "Let's hire an actor to play the preacher." "Should we hire an actor to play our divorce lawyer?" Nick blinked, then grinned sheepishly. "You're right. We'd get in deeper if we tried to break up after the marriage." "I suppose we should break up today." Mira's voice trembled. She swallowed the knot in her throat. Nick had never really been hers, so why was she so stricken with the thought of ending a nonexistent relationship? "At the PTA garage sale?" she suggested. Nick's arms tightened around her then he let go. "Isn't there a barbecue or something tonight?" She nodded. "The Teales host one every year after the garage sale. Should we do it then?" "Yes," Nick answered. "What shall we fight about it?" Chapter 8

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"You're too demanding and I can't live that way again." Mira saw Nick's eyes widen with disbelief and she wondered about the wisdom of spouting the first thought out of her head. Even though it was true. "I'm demanding? You're a perfectionist." "I am not." "You labeled your kitchen drawers." "It's easier to cook and clean when I know where to look for the items I need." "You fold your underwear." "How did you know that?" "I guessed." He crossed his arms. "I bet you measured the exact space needed to hang that picture over the fireplace." "What's wrong with that?" "You knot your beautiful hair into a bun and wear ugly flat shoes and hide your body in sensible clothes." Mira felt the blood rush from her face. So this was what Nick thought of her? His kisses, his touches had told her different things−−that she was beautiful and worthy and free. She'd trusted too much with her heart. She steeled herself against the hurt gathering in her chest. Chapter 8

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"It appears we won't have a problem fighting," she said. "We'd better go now." Mira saw Nick's hesitation, the slump of his shoulders. "I didn't mean to hurt your feelings. I shouldn't have said those things." "You meant them, though, didn't you?" Mira watched Nick rock back on his heels and knew he wouldn't answer. "That's what I thought." "Mira−−" She shrugged. "You don't have the power to hurt me, Nick. I hope your ego can get over it." She pushed past him, not looking at his face. MIRA LOOKED at the flat tire and kicked it. The Teales lived fifteen miles out of town. Though the road was paved, potholes existed every five or so feet−−a typical condition of Oklahoma roads. However, the jumbo hole that had caused the flat tire happened to be on the stretch of land lacking any civilization. Thick, dense woods shadowed both sides of the road. The afternoon sun blazed overhead, a hot reminder that she was late. At this rate, she'd never get to the garage sale. The PTA would probably impeach her as president for missing the big fund raiser. She scanned the forest, hoping to catch a glimpse of Nick. He'd stomped off into the Chapter 8

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woods five minutes ago, after she'd insisted on changing the tire herself. Unfortunately, the spare was flat. And Nick didn't know it because he was too busy throwing a macho temper tantrum. He could take his control tactics and...and shove 'em! If he couldn't handle the fact she was a capable, independent woman−−tough! Slumping against the van, she tucked a few loose wisps of hair into the bun. The bun she'd twisted her hair into before they'd left for the garage sale. She suspected Nick had itched to yank it free, but he said nothing. The entire silent drive had been fraught with tension. Somehow, Mira felt as if she'd lost something with Nick. Impossible, of course. She was just being silly. After all, what had there been to lose? Sighing, she walked to the driver's side, climbed in and pretended not to wait for Nick. She checked the hazard lights, wiped the dust from the dashboard, drummed fingertips on the steering wheel. After an eon, which was about ten minutes in Mira's estimation, Nick emerged from the woods. Mira watched his lean−hipped walk as he casually approached the minivan. His hands were tucked into the pockets of his shorts and his caramel brown shirt clung to his broad shoulders. He halted in front of the van, and removed his shirt, using it to wipe the sweat from his body. Zowie. Chapter 8

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His broad chest and flat stomach testified to Nick's use of weights. Brown curls sprinkled his chest, narrowing into a line that disappeared into his shorts. Okay. She'd already seen him naked. Mira inhaled. Okay. Okay. Embarrassment had kept her from looking too closely that night, but now a hot, intense thread of desire weaved through her, silky strands of want and need arrowing down to her core. Her nipples tightened, beaded against the soft cloth of her dress. The feeling burgeoned, making her heart pound, her throat dry, and her hands shake. Lust. Dear Lord. This was pure lust. She wet her lips, watching as he ran his long fingers through his hair. Then he stopped suddenly and raised his head to look at her. His predatory stare reminded her of a lion who carefully watches his prey before pouncing on the hapless creature. Mira took several long, deep breaths. Nick did not like her. He thought she was a neat freak. But her body had taken control and was ignoring her brain's demands to stop this nonsense right now! Slowly, he walked to her opened window and leaned inside, his green eyes dark, hungry. "The s−spare is f−flat," Mira said, unable to look away from his gaze. "That's nice." Chapter 8

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"I thought we could, um, walk or try to flag someone down." "Good idea." "Nick, it doesn't sound like you care too much about our predicament." A corner of his mouth lifted. "I'm in a predicament myself." She blinked. "What?" "I don't know what this is between us. It's the damnedest thing I've ever experienced." She saw him look at her stiff nipples straining against the white material. His jaw clenched. "I get hard just looking at you, sweetheart. You turn me on in so many ways, I've lost count." All the breath left her body in one big whoosh. His words undid her knots of doubt and turned her insides to warm mush. Nick wanted her. As a woman. With no expectations or demands. "It's lust," she blurted. "Yes, it's certainly that." His gaze returned to her breasts. His tongue swiped his lower lip and Mira tingled all the way to her toes. She wanted his mouth on her breasts. On her stomach and thighs and...she clutched the steering wheel. "I want you," Nick said in a hoarse voice. Chapter 8

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Mira had never given into lust. Actually, she'd never experienced lust. She'd never broken rules, or kicked up her heels or done one un−Mira like thing. Predictable, proper, prudish Mira−−trapped by her own rules of good behavior. Something inside her burst, a dam of emotion that left her breathing jagged and her body shaking. Before she could analyze her actions, she lowered the strap of her dress. Mira hesitated when she exposed the top of her breast, her nipple still hidden. With a low growl, Nick leaned forward and nipped her flesh, trailing a wet line. Gently he lowered the material just enough to tease the taunt peak with his tongue. Then he suckled. Mira arched into the seat, moaning at the pleasure Nick created. His hand found her other breast, his fingers cupping, kneading, pinching. Liquid heat scorched her, pooling in the center of her thighs. "Nick..." She cried out when he stopped. She looked at him and noticed his unsteady breathing. He wrenched open the door. "How far back does this seat go?" "Not far." "Get in. I'll throw every damn box out if I have to." Mira didn't think, didn't analyze, didn't care. Her body buzzed with an intense, unknown Chapter 8

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feeling. She scrambled into the back, and found an open spot between two boxes. She'd barely laid down when Nick slid on top of her, his arousal hard against her belly. His kiss demanded everything from her. His mouth courted her with fierce need and raw desire. Then he raised up and looked at her. "How do you feel about...screaming?" "It's undignified," she said. Nick's quick grin was a promise she didn't understand. He slid lower and flipped up the dress. Mira squirmed. Just what did Nick plan to do? His kisses on her hips made her frantic. "Thong panties. Woman, you're going to give me heart failure." He eased them off, then parted her with gentle fingers. When she felt his warm mouth against her, she bucked and pushed at his head. Nick took her hands and placed them on the inside of her thighs. "Open for me," he whispered. Mira did, her body tight and needy. He kissed her very core, then suckled the tiny nub. Raw pleasure jolted through her. Nick's hands grasped her thighs and drew her close as he sucked, licked, kissed. Whatever he was doing with his mouth created a maelstrom of wicked, intense feelings. "What's...happening," she breathed. Her hands dove into his hair, pulling him still closer. Chapter 8

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"Let go, Mira," Nick said against her sensitive flesh. She shivered. "I want to taste all of you, sweetheart." Mira felt his mouth fully on her, his tongue doing wondrous, unimaginable things. She matched Nick's flicking tongue with tiny movements of her own. The feeling built, rising, until she was straining, reaching...she arched against Nick, who continued to nip and lick and suck. Mira burst into a thousand stars. And screamed.

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Chapter 9 Nick groaned as Mira throbbed against him, her scream of pleasure echoing through his egotistical heart. He'd wanted her to come so hard and so fast, she wouldn't ever forget his loving. He savored one last taste, then raised himself above her, his arousal still imprisoned. She looked at him, eyes wide, and said, "What was that?" "Don't you mean who?" he asked, bending to kiss her nose. "It was you. Screaming." He grinned. Mira shook her head. "No, that, that...feeling. It was incredible. Amazing." "You mean your orgasm?" Her brow furrowed. "You mean those really exist? I thought they only happened in romance novels." Amazement swept through Nick, followed by anger. Mira's husband must have been a real bastard. What kind of man didn't satisfy his partner? What kind of husband didn't give his own wife pleasure? "Are you saying you've never had an orgasm?" She hesitated. "I've always been a little...frigid." Chapter 9

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Nick muttered a curse, then tapped her chin with his finger. "You are a passionate woman, Mira. Don't ever believe anything else." She lowered her gaze and Nick thought he'd embarrassed her. Then she looked up, bit her lip, and asked, "Can I have another orgasm?" "Oh, hell yes," Nick replied. Her simple words fanned the desire already blazing through him. He kissed her, then whispered against her mouth, "Unzip my shorts, sweetheart." Her eager hands obeyed him, and Nick groaned when he felt her fingertips lightly brush him through the briefs. He quickly shed them, then gathered her close, kissing her, touching her, stroking her. He folded the top of the dress down and looked at her breasts. Firm and beautiful, the coral tips puckered, so Nick bent and took a nipple in his mouth, teasing it, pulling and sucking. Mira's moan nearly broke him. He wanted to plunge into her moist heat, but kept his movements slow and deliberate. Her hands were everywhere, his chest, in his hair, his arms and shoulders...his painful arousal. She drove him wild, distracted him from the gentle seduction he wanted to give her. When her hands curled around his buttocks, urging him toward her, he entered her slowly, groaning at the tight, wonderful feel of her. It felt so good. Too good. He stopped and cursed. Chapter 9

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"Wait. I don't have any protection." She tightened around him and he groaned again, then withdrew. "Damn it." He was rock−hard with want and need. He looked down at Mira and saw his own disappointment reflected in her expression. "We can continue this later...at my house," he said. Suddenly he felt uncertain. All those self−lectures about why he couldn't make love with Mira apparently incinerated under the heat of their passion. But he wasn't going to regret the moments now. As long and he and Mira were honest with each other and made no promises, they could have a good thing. A real, good thing. "I'd like to." Mira sounded as uncertain as he felt. He stroked her cheek and kissed her chin. Then he sat up and pulled on his underwear and shorts. Mira sat up, too. "You didn't have a−−you know." "Don't worry, we'll make up for it," Nick replied. He looked at her. The bun had loosened, spilling her gorgeous brown hair over her tan shoulders. Her breasts gleamed with sweat, the coral nipples beckoned his mouth once again. "I could give you another one." Chapter 9

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"It's not fair, Nick," she answered, though it was obvious she wanted what he'd offered. "What about you? I can do to you what you did to me." The image of Mira taking him into her mouth was almost more than he could stand. He sucked in a steadying breath. "Believe me, I'll let you. But for now..." He leaned forward and kissed her breasts. She sighed in satisfaction, her fingers trailing across his bare chest. Nick pulled her hands away. "No, sweetheart. I can't take much more. Just lay back and enjoy, okay?" This time he dipped his finger inside her, his thumb finding the nub among her soft nest of curls. "Oh, Nick..." She was ready, oh so ready. He grimaced as both pain and pleasure swirled through him. He wanted to take her, but not without protection. She moaned and arched against him, offering her breasts to his eager mouth. As he teased her sensitive flesh, he felt the throbbing begin and her fingernails dug into his shoulders. "That's it, sweetheart," he said softly, taking her higher. She shattered against his palm, and he groaned, kissing her mouth fiercely.

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NICK STARTED the van and turned on the air conditioner. Mira had fallen asleep in the passenger seat, her mouth curved in an unconscious smile. It disturbed Nick to think she'd had sex before without enjoying the act. What kind of a jerk had she been married to? Technically, she'd been a virgin. He tried not to be smug about bringing her an unexpected gift. But the feeling crept in anyway, and he found himself smiling like an idiot. Somehow the thought that he'd been the one to show Mira her own passionate nature−−hell, why mince words−−to bring her to an earth−shattering orgasm−−made him feel humble. Yes, he supposed he felt like a crowing rooster, but her openness, her eager, hungry response brought him, literally, to his knees. The power of this feeling was awesome. Huge. Terrifying. What had he done? Worry nibbled away at his confidence. Tonight, when he and Mira had more time, he would explain their relationship's parameters. He cared about her, but she needed to know he did not want the "L" word to be confused with sex. So, all he and Mira had to do was set up the rules and everything would be fine. He looked at his watch. The time edged onto three o'clock. Mira had been expected at one. The whole town was probably worried their publicity stunt couple had left the state. It Chapter 9

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would serve them right if he whisked Mira away to a romantic getaway. No. He and Mira had to break up. He had to stop this marriage nonsense. Although how they would manage to see each other and still remain broken up was a problem. A honking horn's rendition of "Love Me Tender" startled Nick out of his thoughts. He blinked, then rubbed his eyes. A pink Cadillac the size of a yacht pulled in front of the minivan. He shook his head. Only in Mirror Falls. Nick shook Mira awake. "I think someone's stopped to help us." Mira awakened, sending him an entirely too sexy smile, then she stretched like a cat who'd drank all the cream. "Hello," she purred. Unable to resist, Nick leaned over and brushed his a kiss on her mouth. She licked his lower lip and he felt himself harden. "Don't do that," he admonished playfully. "I'm still recovering from the last hard−on you caused." She looked pleased, and glanced at his crotch. "Mira," he warned. "Stop that." "Hey there, folks," yelled a cheerful male voice. "Ya'll need some help? I saw the flat tire." Nick turned and looked at the hefty gentleman dressed in a white jewel−studded cowboy suit. The man wore diamond−shaped purple sunglasses. His ten−gallon hat had "The King" Chapter 9

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emblazoned on it in big gold letters. Lowering the window, Nick said, "Can you give us a ride? Our destination isn't too far." "Sure, sure," the man said. "My Caddy has room for a whole orchestra." They quickly loaded the Cadillac's cavernous trunk with the garage sale items. Mira slid into the front seat and Nick got into the back. Everyone clicked on their seatbelts. Then Frank "Elvis" Schmidt turned on "Jailhouse Rock" and spun gravel as he maneuvered onto the road. Mira gave him directions and he flashed them a huge grin. "Well, now, ain't this a quinkidink. That's where I'm going. Got me a hot date with a little mama." Nick exchanged an amused glance with Mira. "So ya'll married?" "Er, no," Nick said. "My name's Nick Kade and this is Mira Millridge." The car swerved as Frank sent Mira a startled look. "Mira, honey? I'm all shook up that ya didn't remember my name!" "I'm sorry, but have we met before?" "Only through the mail. Short memories are blessed things, I know, darlin'." He wagged his thick eyebrows. "I answered your ad in the personals." "The what?!" Chapter 9

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Nick frowned. "You put an ad in the personals?" "I most certainly did not." "Hey now, darlin', I'm just so lonesome I could cry! I ain't nothing but a hound dog, a good old boy looking for love−−" "In all the wrong places?" Nick supplied, unable to resist. "Wrong song, son," Frank said jovially. The man glanced at Mira. "You act like you don't know nothing about me." "I don't." "If you didn't put the ad in the newspaper, then who did?" Nick asked. Who clicked into his head just as Mira turned around with narrowed eyes. "Angel!" she exclaimed. "Darn it! That's how she found all these men." "You're blaming your woes on an angel?" Frank asked. He adjusted his hat. "That's a new one." "No, Angel is my daughter," Mira said. "This is her version of a birthday present." "She was probably trying to be helpful," Frank put in. "You know how kids are. Got five myself. So, guess that means we don't have a hot date. You're a cutie pie, too." "Thanks," Mira said. "But he's−−" she jabbed a finger at Nick "−−my fiancé." Chapter 9

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"Figured as much," Frank said. He grinned at Nick in the rearview mirror. Soon they turned onto the rutted road that lead to the Teales' home. As they pulled into the huge yard already filled with cars, Nick spotted Angel and Lizzy talking to Ned. So, Ned was Angel's infamous "N." Too bad she wouldn't get a chance to ever date him. As soon as Mira finished giving the third degree to her errant daughter, he'd have a few things to add. Homework assignments. Washing the chalkboard. Writing one hundred times, "I will not set up my mother on blind dates without her permission." They exited the car, and Nick took Mira by the elbow. She turned to Frank. "I insist you stay for the barbecue this evening. I feel terrible that you came all this way for nothing." "Think I'll mosey around. Be happy to stay. Nice town." Mira smiled, then whirled around preparing to march over to her daughter. "Hold on, little mama," Nick said. "Calm down before you speak to her or you may regret your words. And remember, this was her birthday present to you." She inhaled a few deep breaths and clutched his arms. "She told these men I was interested them. She set me up on dates without my knowledge. Her dishonesty is unacceptable." She stopped, then her stricken brown gaze found his. "Oh my God, Nick. How can I punish her? I've done the exact same thing. I perpetuated an outrageous lie. I'm a Chapter 9

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horrible person." Her shoulders slumped, and Nick led her back to the Caddy. "You are not a horrible person. You are creative, spontaneous, and fun. Angel made a mistake. So did we. Don't beat yourself up over it, sweetheart." "I appreciate what you're saying," she murmured. "But does it make what we've done right?" Nick gathered her into his arms and rubbed her back and shoulders. She hugged him tightly, and he wished he could protect her from the world. She shuddered, then stepped out his embrace. "I have to tell everyone the truth." "Let's just have the argument," Nick coaxed. "No one will need to know differently." "We have to make this right," she answered. "Mom!" Nick and Mira turned. An excited Angel and Lizzy rushed to them. "I can't believe this! It's so great." She danced a jig around Mira, then hugged her mother. Nick held on to Mira's hand tightly, trying to send a message of strength and support to her. Then Nick found Angel's arms wrapped around him. "Mr. Kade is gonna be my step−dad. Way cool." She kissed him on the cheek, then let go. "But I won't call you Dad in Chapter 9

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class, okay?"

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Chapter 10 MIRA FELT an icy wave of dread wash over her. Why hadn't it occurred to her that Angel would know about the engagement? She glanced at Nick and saw his shock. Their little white lie had coalesced into a huge catastrophe. The excitement dancing in Angel's eyes inflated Mira's guilt. "So Mom," Angel flashed a grin, "I guess you didn't need my birthday present, after all." "Lovebirds!" trilled Mrs. Bitsinger. "We have so much to discuss." The tiny old woman was attached to Frank's chubby arm. "This man is not only a devoted fan of the King, he's got a night club act...and he's a preacher. Isn't this fabulous? Our historic opening will be remembered forever. Why, Mira and Nick, you're going to be married by Elvis!" Oh God. Married by Elvis in a restored one−room schoolhouse. With a full report on the five o'clock news. It was too much. Mira started to laugh. Tears streamed down her cheeks and she doubled over. She couldn't stop and she knew she sounded like an out−of−control clown, but the ridiculous situation overwhelmed her. "It gets worse and worse, doesn't it?" she asked. She started to hiccup. "Mom? Are you okay?" Chapter 10

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"Angel, go get your mother some water," Nick said. He lifted her onto the Caddy's trunk and wiped the tears from her cheeks. "Are you all right, Mira?" he murmured, pushing her hair behind her ear. "No." Mrs. Bitsinger, Frank, and Lizzy crowded around Nick. Mira closed her eyes against their concerned expressions. She'd been such an idiot. Why had she let it get this far? She opened her eyes just as Angel appeared with a paper cup of water. Behind her stood Mrs. Teale and an assortment of onlookers. "Come see the show," she muttered. She gratefully drank the water and handed the cup back to Angel. She didn't know what to say, what to do. She looked at Nick. He turned around. "Everything's fine," he said. "Please don't be concerned. Its just pre−wedding jitters." Everyone nodded and dispersed except for Mrs. Bitsinger and Angel. Mira squeezed her daughter's shoulder. "It's okay," she told Angel, "go on. I'll talk to you later." "Mom−−there's something I have to tell you about the rest of your birthday. I know you're upset now, but we really need to talk soon." "We will." Chapter 10

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Angel kissed Mira on the cheek. "I love you, Mom. I just want you to be happy." Mira looked at Angel's sweet face and burst into tears. Angel hugged her awkwardly, then stepped back. "I'll take care of her," Nick said softly. Angel nodded, then walked slowly to the garage sale, looking back at Mira every few steps. Her daughter's obvious concern tore at her. She cried harder. Nick put his arms around her. She snuggled into his warm embrace, feeling like a leech sucking out all his comfort, but she couldn't pull away. "That's the way it is with pregnancy," Mrs. Bitsinger whispered loudly. "Babies do such nasty things with a woman's hormones." Nick let go so suddenly, Mira almost fell off the Caddy. He looked down at Mrs. Bitsinger. "Mira is not pregnant," he said in a low, deadly voice. "And I better not hear one, single word to the contrary from anybody in this town." Mira watched Mrs. Bitsinger's eyes widen. Somehow the old woman's assumption didn't surprise Mira. Mrs. Bitsinger took a hasty step backwards. "O−of course not, Nick. I would never presume you would only marry dear sweet Mira because of an unexpected pregnancy. Perish the thought." Chapter 10

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"Mrs. Bitsinger, I need to speak with you privately," Nick ground out. Mira watched as he grasped the elderly woman's elbow and guided her out of Mira's earshot. After a few moments, Nick returned. "Don't worry, sweetheart. I've made damn sure that particular rumor never circulates." "What difference does it make?" she asked softly. "It's the only thing they'd believe. My own husband of fourteen years left me for another woman. I obviously don't have what it takes to hold onto a man." Mira sniffled. "Why else would someone marry me?" "What's this?" Nick lifted her chin. Compassion filled his gaze. "Self−pity? This isn't the Mira I know. You're a fighter, honey. A survivor." Mira thought about the days after Donald had left. After she'd gotten over the shock, she'd felt a vast relief. She'd started to savor having a Donald−free life. She had survived the pitying looks and whispered comments and constant advice. "I am fighter." She nodded decisively. "I just wasn't prepared for another volley from Army Bitsinger." She looked at Nick and placed a gentle kiss on his cheek. "Thank you." He looked startled, then he bent his head. When he looked at her again, his expression was carefully blank. Chapter 10

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"You're welcome." He hesitated. "I know it's important that we end this marriage facade, but I don't want to fight. Not tonight. Maybe we can do it after church tomorrow." Mira sighed. She didn't want to stage a fight, either. But Nick was vehemently against what her heart told was the right action−−telling the truth. Church was probably the best place to confess her sins. She'd simply do it before Nick knew what was happening. Afterwards, when the pressure of maintaining the fiancé charade was off, he'd be grateful for what she'd done. She hoped. "We can wait until tomorrow," she said. He smiled. "Tonight," he murmured, touching her cheek. The word was a promise. "We'll be naked and hot and sweaty together." His words sent shivers through her. Oh my. THE GARAGE sale closed at seven o'clock. Mira and Nick had separated, though it seemed every time she sought him in the crowds, she found his gaze directed at her. He'd smile and she'd smile, too, feeling like a giddy teenager. Speaking of giddy teenagers, Mira realized Ned−−Mrs. Teale's son−−was the object of her daughter's affections if the way they flirted was any indication. Angel hovered around her, asking solicitous questions, until Mira finally shooed the girl away. Chapter 10

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The barbecue geared up, and Mira, for the first time she could remember, was told to go away and stop helping. Her fake, impending marriage had sent the town into a weird frenzy. She'd received congratulations and advice all afternoon, and she was sure Nick had received the same. It worried her. When everyone realized what a big fat lie their engagement was, she'd be the laughing stock of Mirror Falls. Another failed relationship for Mira Millridge. She squared her shoulders. She'd made her bed−−she'd darn well lie in it. Of course, she planned to tell Angel first. After they'd had the talk about the personals. She knew Angel was dying to confess, she'd seen the guilt lurking in her daughter's eyes all day. But Mira's anger had dissipated. And Nick...he had her twisted inside and out. She knew he cared for her and she knew now he really did want her as a woman. For whatever reason, Nick didn't believe in love−−even though he seemed directed by that very emotion. She sighed. Maybe she was confusing common courtesy and respect with love. She'd never received those from Donald. To him, she'd always been a wife, a homemaker. But he'd never seen her as a woman, he'd never given her credit for her intellect or asked about her dreams or tried to understand what was in her heart. Chapter 10

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Tonight, she and Nick would be alone. Nothing could be better than that. NICK WATCHED Mira bend over the table, tugging at the edge of the vinyl cover. Once again, the dress fluttered provocatively, and now that he knew just what pleasures awaited him under that dress, his response was sudden and embarrassing. She did the damnedest things to him. He wanted her. In so many ways. She wiggled and he couldn't stand it anymore. Looking around, he noticed almost everyone except Angel and Lizzy had convened to the backyard for the barbecue. Then Ned appeared with Napalm. They and the girls soon disappeared around the house. Mira was alone. He walked next to her and slid his hand up her thigh. He cupped a round buttock, then traced her spine. What the−−his hand coasted back down. "Where the hell is your underwear?" he growled. She turned into his arms. "At home. Folded in a drawer." "So you've been running around all afternoon without underwear. In a short, white dress." He groaned. Tonight was too damn far away. "We could skip the barbecue. Go to my house." He trailed soft kisses on her neck. Chapter 10

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Her head lolled back, giving him better access. "You taste good," he murmured. His pressed his arousal in the vee of her thighs, cupping her buttocks to bring her closer. "I have to deal with Angel," Mira said, though her voice was husky. She pressed tiny kisses on his jaw and neck. Each touch from Mira was torture. "And then," she whispered, "I have to help clean up after the barbecue. Then I−−" Nick looked down at her. "You aren't doing a damn thing after the barbecue is over. You're coming to my house...to my bed. Everyone will manage without you." She licked her lips, but her gaze had turned wary. "That sounds like an order." Nick frowned, remembering her accusation that he was demanding. Frustration swirled through him. "Mira, I'm not commanding you to do anything. I'm asking." He kissed her nose. "Pleading." He kissed her chin. "Begging." He kissed her sweet lips. She sighed and opened her mouth to him, her hands creeping into his hair. After a long moment, Nick dragged himself away. Mira's lusty smile ripped at his flagging control. "Okay, Nick, we'll go−−after we eat." Nick ripped off the tablecloth and grabbed her hand. "Let's go." Mira laughed. "Where?" "To be first in line," Nick replied. "The sooner our hunger for food is gone, the sooner Chapter 10

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we can satisfy our other appetites." Unfortunately, well−meaning folks separated Nick and Mira as soon as they rounded the corner of the house. Mira took the tablecloth from him and gestured to a secluded area. He nodded, then found himself among a group of well−wishers. "Thanks, everyone, really," Nick said. "But I need to get some food." He turned, not liking the knowing grins he received. How would these people react when he and Mira ended their engagement? An unsettling emotion niggled at him. The townspeople would eventually accept that he and Mira were not getting married. He headed toward the buffet table, his stomach growling. The smells of roasting chicken and mustard potato salad made him salivate. He saw Mira on the other side of the table with two plates. She indicated one plate was his. Then she smiled that same smile he'd seen all day. She had secrets in her eyes−−secrets only he knew. It pleased him−−far too much. Angel stepped into his path. "Can I talk to you for a moment?" Nick wanted to know about her, about Mira, and about the man who'd abandoned these two wonderful women. He gestured toward the wooded area close by. "We can talk over there." They walked to the edge of the forest. At least hundred people milled about, eating, Chapter 10

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drinking, talking, laughing. Men and women engaged in a horseshoe contest. Children played tag. Babies cried. Strung−up paper lamps lighted the yard. Nick enjoyed the activities for a moment, and inhaled the scents of the night. Then he looked at Angel. Her troubled expression softened his heart. "I'm listening, Angel." She bit her lip, then withdrew a ragged piece of paper from her pocket and handed it to him. "I wanted to tell Mom about this, but when she freaked out this afternoon, I didn't know what else might set her off." She glanced behind her, then said, "Do you think she's okay?" "Your mother is a very strong person," Nick replied. "What is this?" He glanced at the paper, already knowing the answer. She blanched, then straightened−−a Mira gesture that made him smile. "It's a personal ad I placed for Mom. I wanted to do something special for her birthday." Angel stopped. "I think I did something wrong. These guys weren't anything like they said in the letters. Did you get a load of Frank? And Howard?" Nick saw Angel's misery, and he felt at a loss. What did he say? What did he do? Angel hung her head and when she raised it, tears glittered in her eyes. "I just wanted her to be Chapter 10

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happy. I didn't know you two had been dating. Mom never said anything." Nick felt his gut clenched. No wonder Mira had second thoughts about the fake fight. What would Angel do when she realized Mira and Nick had perpetuated a false engagement? This parenting stuff wasn't easy, damn it. He felt panic bubble through him. He looked down at the ad, able to read the words because of the bright lamps. He grimaced. "She sounds like a housewife for rent." Nick saw Angel's look of horror and wanted to take back the words. "Hey, honey..." "Oh no. No wonder all these guys are creeps. They just want a cook and a housekeeper. They're just like my Dad." Startled, Nick squeezed Angel's shoulder comfortingly. Again, he had the strong urge to track down Donald and punch his lights out. "Don't underestimate your mother. She knows you meant well." Angel nodded. "I don't know how you guys got together−−but I'm glad." Nick felt a protective warmth flood him. Damn. Mira had been right−−the situation kept worsening. What would Angel think of him after tomorrow? What would she think of her mother? Nick felt sick. If there was any other way...but there wasn't. "Angel, about your father..." Chapter 10

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She shrugged away his hand, her eyes flashing. "He's a jerk," she said. "And I hate him."

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Chapter 11 "HI, MIRA." Mira looked up, a chicken leg poised before her lips. Zach stood above her, smiling shyly. She put the leg down and gestured for him to sit on the blanket she'd arranged for her and Nick−−far away from everyone else. "I figured you'd be here," he said as he sat beside her. He avoided looking at her, instead directing his gaze at the people milling around the yard. "Zach−−" "Mira−−" They stopped and laughed. Some of the odd tension disappeared. "You go first," Mira said. "After we parted last night, I−−I met someone." He had such sincere blue eyes. "She was trying to disassemble the cotton candy machine and was covered head−to−foot in sweet, pink stuff." Mira held up her hand. "Say no more. Tilly McDaniels, right? I saw her in the cotton candy booth at the Festival. She's a wonderful girl, Zach." Chapter 11

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His smile widened. "You know her?" He slapped his forehead. "Of course. This is such a small town." She squeezed Zach's hand. "I'm happy for you." "I hope love finds you and keeps you well." Mira swallowed the knot in her throat. Unfortunately, she doubted his words would come true. She smiled. "Thank you, Zach. I'm sure Tilly is waiting for you." He stood. "Good−bye, Mira. See you around." She nodded her good−bye, then picked up the chicken leg. After taking a bite, she put it on the plate, and stretched out. She wasn't hungry anymore. She felt so empty...like a hole that could never be filled. Where was Nick? She'd been sitting here for half an hour, anticipating his arrival. Waiting for him to take her to his home, his bed. Yawning, she closed her eyes. She was tired. Exhausted. She yawned again. The day had stretched on and on into forever. So much had happened, it felt like a whole lifetime instead of one day. She drowsed, listening to the buzz of crickets and the wind rustling through the trees. Relaxing, she felt herself sink into sleep. ANGEL SETTLED against the tree, morosely watching the too happy residents of Chapter 11

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Mirror Falls enjoy themselves. Man, she'd screwed things up. She wiped the tears from her eyes. Mom would probably kill her for placing the personal ad. Looking back, the idea seemed kind of dumb now. But she'd plowed on ahead as usual, sort of like walking a tight rope blindfolded. "What's wrong, Angelica?" Ned sank down beside her, his concern evident in his brown eyes. "Nothing," she said, turning away. Figures he'd show up when she was bawling like a big baby. "Just go away." He touched her cheek. "You're crying." "Duh," Angel said. "You've discovered the secret of the century." Ned chuckled. "I love it when you do that." Angel swiped at her face. "Do what?" "Use sarcasm. It means something's got your goat." His grin flashed in the darkness. Angel felt the bottom drop out of her stomach. He was so cute. Darn him, anyway. Why couldn't he go away and let her be miserable? "You've got me all figured out, Ned." "No, not really." He leaned forward, brushing the hair from her eyes. "I don't have you Chapter 11

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figured out at all." He caressed her cheek, closing in until his lips were a mere inch from hers. "I've been meaning to ask you−−" "Yes," Angel breathed. Ned looked surprised, then pleased. His grin returned. "Do you even know what you said yes to?" Angel's heart pounded. Boys! Didn't he know how close he was? Didn't he know she didn't care about words right now? Didn't he know to kiss her? "I said yes to the dance," Angel said. "Now shut up and kiss me." "Yes, ma'am," he whispered, then brushed his lips across hers. His mouth felt warm and soft and gentle. She sighed when he moved away. His hand found hers and they sat in silence. Then Ned scooted closer and put his arm around her. Angel snuggled against his shoulder. "So how do you know I wasn't asking to go steady with you?" Angel looked up at him. "Go steady?" "Yeah. Girlfriend, boyfriend. Dates. Necking." He wagged his eyebrows, but she saw his nervousness. She pretended to think about it. "I don't know..." Chapter 11

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"Don't say anything yet," he interrupted. "Think about it. I can wait." "Oh, Ned." She laughed. "I've been waiting all summer for you to notice me. I'd like for us to be a couple." "Wow," he said. Angel felt his rapid heartbeat as she returned his hug. He leaned down and kissed her again. "Wow." Happiness danced through her. Ned was her boyfriend. She felt so...weird. "So what were you crying about? Can I help?" Misery crushed her joy. Ned might have to wait until graduation to see her again once Mom figured out everything she'd done. How could she have ever thought Mom would want to date all those strange guys−−oh no! She jumped up. She'd forgotten about Bachelor Number Five! "Where are you going?" "I need to find my mother. Now!" MIRA STIRRED. Something felt wet. And ticklish. As she blinked awake, she realized someone was sucking her toes. She grinned, rubbing her eyes. Nick was a brave man, indeed. Chapter 11

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She raised up on her elbows, then looked at the figure crouched at her feet. And screamed. NICK PICKED his way through the crowd, heading for the spot Mira had pointed out earlier. His thoughts circled endlessly. Angel had shared memories and feelings about her father with him, and he'd listened. Donald Millridge's sporadic involvement with Angel was mostly through late birthday cards and child support checks. Angel felt abandoned, but she had courage and strength, just like her mother. She admitted she didn't really hate her father, but that she'd always hoped he would change. Donald better hope he never stepped foot in Mirror Falls again. Nick would gladly strangle the man. Nick also understood why Angel had placed the personal ad. She wanted happiness for Mira. He couldn't be angry with the kid for an unselfish, if catastrophic, act. Even though he wasn't her soon−to−be stepfather, he still felt connected, and he hoped Mira would listen when he asked for her to go easy with Angel. Mira had chosen a good spot near the trees away from most of the crowd. He stepped around another game of horseshoes and increased his pace, eager to be alone with Mira. Chapter 11

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Then he heard the scream. Mira! He sprinted forward, his eyes adjusting to the darkness. Then he saw the two figures. Mira's white dress shimmered in the night as she kicked the person hunched at her feet. Cold fear exploded in Nick's chest. Someone was hurting Mira. He skittered to a stop, his shoes sliding on the soft grass, and grabbed the bastard's shirt collar. He yanked up and smashed his fist into the jerk's face. "Stop, Nick," Mira cried. She scrambled up and clutched his arm. "Did he touch you? I'll kill him." Nick growled. He looked at the pathetic man dangling from his grip on the shirt. Dangling? Nick looked again. The guy had to be five, maybe five and half, feet tall. His wide frightened eyes beseeched Nick. Blood gushed from the man's nose. Nick dropped him. The guy hit the ground like a stone and cowered at Nick's feet. "I−I don't think he meant any harm," Mira said in a shaky voice. "He just frightened me." Turning, he dragged Mira into his arms and checked every part of her body. She was trembling, but not injured. The fear gelled into relief. "What did he do? Do you want to call the police? Are you okay?" He kissed her soundly, Chapter 11

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reassuring himself that Mira was alive and well and all right. "He sucked my toes," she exclaimed. "He what?" "Oh, my God," Angel wailed. "What did he do, Mom?" Nick held on to Mira, but turned in time to see Angel and Ned skid to a halt next to the man now prone on the ground. "What did you do?" Angel yelled at the bleeding man. "Did you hurt her, you creep?" "Angel, calm down," Mira said. "He just−−um..." "He sucked her toes," Nick gritted out. "Pervert." Ned burst out laughing and Angel hit him. "It's not funny. He could have...bit her or something. Do you need a rabies shot? I heard human saliva has worse germs than animal spit. Should we call a doctor?" "I neeb a boctor," the man on the ground moaned. "He broke by bose." "What's going on?" the mayor bellowed. Beeglemeyer headed up the crowd of people surrounding Nick and Mira. Ned, who hadn't stopped laughing, pointed to the man. "He s−sucked Mrs. M−Millridge's t−toes." Chapter 11

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"What's that? He sucked her toes?" The mayor squinted at Mira. "You want to press charges on him? I know Bill's around here somewhere. Mabel, go get the sheriff. He's probably finishing off the potato salad." The mayor bent down and patted the man's jacket. "Look here, mister, I don't know where you're from, but round these parts toe−sucking is simply not allowed." The mayor cleared his throat. "Say, son, you're bleeding on my shoe." Nick shook his head. He wanted to laugh, and he didn't. His emotions were so tangled, he didn't think he'd ever get them unknotted. "I'd like to go wash my feet," Mira said. "He didn't bite you, did he? No bruises?" "No. He was very gentle." Ned's laugh turned into a snort. Nick glared at the boy, then looked at the people gathered. Some had enough manners to snicker behind their hands. Others simply guffawed. "Here now, folks, let me through." The sheriff, in a T−shirt emblazoned with "Don't Piss Me Off, I'm The Law," elbowed his way beside Nick, Mira, and the mayor. "What's the problem, Dick?" Chapter 11

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"Toe−sucking, that's what." Nick felt a touch and looked down to see Cyndy and Howard. "I'll take her to the bathroom," Cyndy offered. "C'mon, Mira. We'll get your feet clean." He hugged Mira and kissed her cheek. He saw Howard do the same with Cyndy, then the two women left. Nick caught Howard's distraught gaze. For a strange second, he felt a kinship with the man. Then he looked down at the guy he'd punched. What else could possibly happen? MIRA ALLOWED Cyndy to guide her to the house. The conversation between the sheriff and the mayor filtered across the yard. "Don't believe there's an ordinance against toe−sucking," said the sheriff. "Where's the Doc? This guy's bleeding like a stuck pig." "Out of town," the mayor answered. "Mabel, call the vet. He'll have to do." Their voices faded as Mira and Cyndy neared the house. Mira didn't know whether to laugh or cry. She'd been scared witless to discover a stranger with his mouth on her feet. What in the world had possessed him to do such a thing? Cyndy waited while Mira stepped in the bathtub and scrubbed her feet under the rush of Chapter 11

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water from the tap. Mrs. Teale scurried in with a "tsk, tsk, what's this town coming to," and a towel, then left. When Mira felt clean, she turned off the water. "I know doing this seems silly, but I feel better." "I understand," Cyndy said softly. She handed Mira the towel. "I wanted to apologize for my behavior at the diner. It was rude." Surprised, Mira looked at the redhead. Cyndy flushed. "I've spent the whole day with Howard. We went to lunch at the Walmack Inn. He's so wonderful." She looked at Mira and smiled. "I mean that. Some people can't see beyond a person's body. Howard respects my mind." Guilt flooded Mira. She'd judged Cyndy's body and face. Of course, Cyndy never tried to revamp herself or salvage her reputation. But maybe Cyndy didn't care about what people thought−−and Mira was too aware of people's opinions. "I'm sorry I ever judged you," Mira said, putting down the towel. "It was wrong." "Thank you, Mira. That means a lot." She gave Mira an awkward hug. "I'm so happy for both of us! I met Howard. You're marrying Nick. Are we lucky, or what?" You're marrying Nick. For a moment, Mira wanted to confess everything to Cyndy. She'd never had a female confidante before, never enjoyed a best girl friend. But she Chapter 11

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couldn't admit the lie yet. She'd have tonight with Nick, then probably live a lonely hermit−like existence for the rest of her life. Maybe she should get a cat. "Let's go find out what happened," Mira said, opening the bathroom door. She smacked into Nick's broad chest. He picked her up and threw her over his shoulder. "Nick!" "We're leaving, Mira." He carried her past an open−mouthed Mrs. Teale in the living room, and strode out the front door. "What−−where−−who−−" "Making love, my house, me," he answered. "I want you naked. And I'm not waiting a single minute more."

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Chapter 12 THE ONLY thing Mira liked about being upside down and jounced around like sack of potatoes was the view. She reached down and squeezed Nick's firm rear end. He reciprocated, only his hand found naked flesh, due to her short dress and lack of underwear. "Not fair," she cried. Nick laughed. "Don't start the game if you don't want to play." "As much fun as it is to be hauled around like this," Mira huffed, "I really need to have that discussion with Angel." "Angel's spending the night at Lizzy's. You can talk to her tomorrow. And, yes, that's an order." Mira rolled her eyes. Fine. She'd let Nick played macho man−−for now. "What about the man who found my feet so interesting?" "The vet has declared our toe−sucker's nose is in one piece. Not broken. The guy's a bleeder." "But why did he choose my toes?" Chapter 12

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"I'm getting to that. He's Charles Worthington from Liberty, Kansas. A shoe salesman." Nick paused by the pink Caddy, opened the passenger door, and dropped her inside. He got in on the driver's side and started the car. "Or, as Angel calls him, Bachelor Number Five." Mira sucked in a breath. "He answered the personal ad, too?" "Yep. The last of the bunch, thank God. He didn't want to press charges against me for punching him because Mrs. Bitsinger, bless her gossipy heart, threatened to put his name and his toe−sucking digression on the five o'clock news−−right after our wedding in the newly restored one−room school, of course." "Of course." Mira looked out the window, up at the night sky. "Probably going to rain." Thunder rumbled, punctuating her statement. She glanced at Nick. "So, we're..." "Going to my house. I'm taking you to bed and we're going to make love all night." Hot and cold shivers invaded her. Making love with Nick. All night. "Is that it?" she asked. He tilted his head. "Food's somewhere on the agenda." He flashed her a grin. "If we have time." "Does the King know we've taken his car?" "He gave me the keys," Nick replied. "Found himself a hot little mama tonight. He's odd, Chapter 12

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but I like him." "Me, too," Mira said. "But not as a date." THEY REACHED Nick's house in record time. Mira had glanced at the speedometer and noticed the needle pointed at a steady 90 miles an hour. The tires screeched as Nick pulled the car in the drive and threw the gear into park. Mira slid out of the car and followed Nick to the house. Nerves tingling, she entered his domain. She refused to question her decision to make love with Nick. She would not examine her reasons or emotions. She wouldn't think in terms of love. Nick flicked a small lamp, which only illuminated the table on which it sat and part of the burgundy couch. Mira closed the front door and leaned against it, uncertainty eating away at her. "God, you look beautiful," Nick said. Mira's head snapped up and she drew in a breath at the stark desire reflected in Nick's eyes. She licked her dry lips and tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat. "Stay there." Nick disappeared into the bedroom. He reappeared seconds later, completely naked. His Chapter 12

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arousal jutted, beckoning her. Sharp desire ripped through her. "Oh my," Mira breathed. He surrounded her, putting his hands on either side of her face. Leaning down, he kissed her, his lips devouring hers. He cupped her breasts, pressing his erection against her. He pulled a scant inch away and looked at her, his eyes hungry, needy. "Unless you have a preference," he whispered. "I thought I'd take you here first." "T−take me?" He unzipped the dress, sliding the straps off her arms. The material pooled at her feet. "I've spent the entire day thinking about you, Mira. What happened in the van was incredible. But I want everything and the waiting's killing me." His words, accompanied by his hot, fervent touches, held her hostage. She wanted him. They had all night to explore each other, to take things slowly. "Now," she whispered. He bent to stroke her breasts with his tongue and she moaned. Then he put a small foil packet in her hand. Mira ripped it open, using the opportunity to torture Nick with her touch. She stroked, cupped, rubbed until he removed her hands. He lifted her, wrapping her legs around his waist, then slowly entered her ready flesh. Chapter 12

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Mira dotted kisses on his face and neck, rubbing her breasts on his chest. His thrusts brought her closer to the pinnacle she now knew existed. His hands grasped her hips and she held onto his shoulders, urging him closer. Her pleasure expanded, encompassed. "When you come, say my name," Nick whispered thickly. "I need to hear you say it." Mira looked at him, and saw how close he was to his own fulfillment. She tightened around him, drawing him in deeper. His green eyes glittered fiercely, sending a feminine satisfaction thrilling through her. He kissed her, then his mouth found the taunt peak of her breast. "Oh, Nick," she cried. The wondrous feeling swelled, crested, burst into a thousand sensations. "Nick!" Even as she pulsed around him, he cried out, his own release throbbing inside her. He dropped his head to her shoulder, then kissed the hollow at the base of her throat. "When I recover sufficiently," he muttered, "we'll go to the bedroom." "Hurry up and recover." He nipped her collarbone, then turned around and walked to the bedroom. "You can put me down," Mira said. "No way." He sat down on the bed, still inside her. His grin was sexy and wicked. "Shall we begin again?" Chapter 12

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"SO WHY don't you like fruit?" Nick asked. Mira sprawled on top of him, her cheek pressed against his heart. He stroked her back, smiling as she wiggled against his fingers and demanded, "Scratch, please." He did and she practically purred. "I like that." "But not fruit." She sighed and her breath brushed his skin. "Two reasons−−Donald and diets." "Explains everything," Nick said. "Yes, it's all very clear now." "Oh, all right," she groused. She slid off and leaned on her elbow, looking at him. Nick turned on his side, facing her, gently stroking her hip. He hadn't been able to keep his hands off her. He had to touch her. It was a Mira Addiction. "Donald griped about my weight all the time. About two years before he left, he found this fruit diet in one of those cheesy newspaper magazines. So he suggested I try it." "Suggested, huh?" "Donald's idea of a suggestion was more like a command from his Grand Royal Highness." She pursed her lips. "I tried it. Donald made sure the whole town knew I wasn't to eat fattening foods. Of course, it embarrassed me that he'd announced my new diet to the Chapter 12

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world, so I wouldn't have ordered a chicken fried steak anyway. "I didn't lose weight. Not one pound. I ate cantaloupe, blueberries, watermelon, peaches. I went without mashed potatoes and gravy and biscuits for six whole months. Donald, of course, would tell anyone who'd listen about my lack of willpower." Nick traced a line to her neck and cupped her cheek. "This is upsetting you, sweetheart." He kissed her nose. "You don't have to tell the rest." "I want to," she whispered. "We went out to eat at the diner, and Donald made this big production of ordering fruit for me. And that jerk ordered chicken fried steak with mashed potatoes and gravy and biscuits. He savored every bite, and I ate fruit. It tasted funny, but I finished it. Then I went into the bathroom and threw up. The fruit had been bad." "So you never ate it again?" "Donald was furious, but he eventually realized he wasn't going to win that particular battle. I tried to eat fruit after he left, but it made me sick to my stomach. It all tastes weird now." "Maybe you need to have some good experiences to replace the bad ones," Nick suggested. He trailed a finger down her breast and encircled the hardening nipple. "Like what?" Chapter 12

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"I have strawberries and whip cream." "Congratulations." Nick grinned. "Wouldn't you like to know about the amazing ways you can use fruit during sex?" Her gaze brightened and she licked her lips. "Really?" She frowned. "Do I have to eat the strawberries?" "Sweetheart, you don't have to do anything you don't want to, but you may decide to try a nibble." Two hours and one bottle of whip cream later, Nick kissed the last of the strawberry juice from Mira's lips. "That was fantastic," she said. "What can you do with a cantaloupe?" He chuckled. "I'm game to find out. How do you feel about a long, hot, steamy bath with a naked man?" "I don't know. I've never done it." Nick shook his head. "You've had an evening full of firsts. I can't believe...never mind." He didn't want to encourage Mira's bad memories of her ex−husband. "You can't believe what?" Chapter 12

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He looked at her. A drop of red juice trailed down her neck and he traced the wet line. A testament to her unfettered response to his lovemaking. He'd never felt so grateful before. He knew the gift Mira had given him−−even if she didn't. "You deserved better than Donald," he said. "He was a jerk who cared more about himself than his family. I'm glad he's out of your life, Mira." "Me, too." Her gaze softened and she planted a kiss in the center of his chest. "Now about that bath...." CLEAN AND DRY, Mira snuggled against Nick. He pulled her closer, murmured her name, then slipped back into sleep. She pulled the comforter over his chest, though it was a shame to cover any part of Nick. The digital clock on the nightstand blinked 3 a.m. Church services began at ten o'clock. After the sermon, she'd stand before the congregation and God and tell the truth about her relationship with Nick. Well, most of it. She hoped Nick understood her decision. She wanted to tell him, but she knew he'd only talk her out of it. Or demand she stick with the staged fight plan. Why couldn't they just be together? If it wasn't for this lie about Nick being her fiancé, Chapter 12

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would they be here now, holding each other? She didn't know. The fiancé lie had complicated everything. And she had to talk to her daughter before church. The anger over Angel placing a personal ad for Mira had long since faded. They needed to talk with each other, clear up the misunderstandings. She hoped Angel would understand and forgive. She hoped, too, Nick wouldn't tire of her too quickly. Mira wanted more moments like these−−Nick's arms around her and his heart beating a steady rhythm under her ear. A chill crept over her. Don't do it, a voice whispered. You'll regret the decision. Mira shivered, then shoved the warning away. Confession was good for the soul. So what if it messed up everything else?

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Chapter 13 NICK STIRRED, opening his eyes. His body, on full alert, vibrated with intense pleasure. His fists clenched the sheets as he realized what had awakened him. Mira. She kneeled between his legs, head bent, her wicked mouth caressing him. As her tongue tasted his arousal, he jerked against her lips. "Woman, are you trying to kill me?" His eyes adjusted to the darkness of the bedroom and he suddenly wished for light. He wanted to watch Mira take him. "No, just a wake up call." Her deep, throaty laugh was the laugh of a vixen. Fierce, aching need ravaged his body. Impatient, he tugged Mira forward. She needed no other coaxing. Her slick, warm flesh accepted him one tortuous inch at a time. Nick grasped her hips and entered her fully, groaning at the tight, velvety feel. Her tentative movements almost destroyed his willpower. He allowed her full control, even as her hesitant tests of his flesh drove him wild. Nick cupped her breasts, urging her close so that he could sample the taunt peaks. She moaned, placing her hands against his chest, her fingers digging into his skin. Her pace increased and Nick suckled one nipple, teasing and Chapter 13

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pulling. Mira's scent teased his nostrils and her sounds of pleasure accented his own. He knew she was close, so close...he stilled her hips and flipped her over, withdrawing. She cried out, her closed eyes flying open. "Nick!" "Hang on, sweetheart," he murmured. He fumbled for the box on the nightstand, cursing when it fell on the floor. Reaching down, he searched the carpet until his fingers closed around the packet. Nick quickly sheathed himself, then he clicked on the small lamp near the bed and looked at Mira. Her gorgeous hair spread over the pillow and her shoulders. He stroked her temple, smiling at her half−lidded gaze begging for him to finish the act she'd started. Then he looked at her lips, swollen from her earlier loving of him. Both temptress and innocent. He felt an emotion so tender, its very softness sliced him to the core. He kissed her, tasting himself on her lips. Raising above her, he watched her watch him. These emotions terrified him, made him quake inside. He'd never felt this way before about another human being. "What is it?" she asked, tasting his skin. The flick of her tongue against his nipple made him shudder. Damn, she felt good. He hovered above her, trying to think about the sex, not the woman. But he couldn't separate the two. Mira hadn't shared her body, she'd shared her Chapter 13

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soul. And damn him, so had he. Nick hid this new, terrifying knowledge behind a wolfish grin. He nipped her shoulder. "I think you need to pay a toll," he said. "A word toll." She bucked against him, but he pulled back. She stared at him, frustration and need evident in her dark gaze. "What's a word toll?" "For every word you say, I'll touch you." He smiled gently. "It's a game, Mira. Do you want to play?" He saw that the idea intrigued her. She tilted her head. "What kind of words?" "Cuss words." "What!" Nick rolled off her, pretending he didn't want to plunge into her sweet flesh. "Hey, you woke me up. Used my body for your own personal pleasure." He slanted a look at her, grinning at her outraged expression. "I'm not asking to give up your principles entirely." "Just for sex," she muttered. Then a sly smile curved her lips. "Will these touches be worth the price? I think I need a free sample before I decide." Nick choked back a laugh. Good Lord. She was fantastic. He turned on his side. "One Chapter 13

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free sample for the lady." He looked at her body, his gaze devouring every perfect inch of her. He put his fingers against her neck, feathering her skin lightly. She trembled and he knew she was experiencing the same ache claiming him. He stroked a slow line to her breast, encircled the nipple, then touched her ribs, stomach, hip. She moaned as his fingers trailed to her center. He hesitated, then put his thumb against her core. Her gasp was sharp, insistent. She was wet, warm...ready. She moved against his touch, and Nick thought about ending the whole game. He needed to feel her around him. To hell with word tolls. Then Mira looked at him and whispered, "Damn." He couldn't explain the jolt of electricity echoing through him. He pressed his palm against her mound, dipping a finger into her. "Hell!" Mira exclaimed. Nick groaned and covered her, allowing his erection to slide against the nest of curls hiding her sensitive flesh. She adjusted her position and Nick felt her hands on his buttocks, urging him to enter. Her gaze was liquid, hot. "Damn. Hell. Double damn," she whispered. The words excited Chapter 13

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him. He couldn't understand the fire, the need. Then he realized Mira was breaking her rules only for him. Laying her belief on his altar as a sacrifice. Another gift. "No more," he growled. "No more words." But Mira pulled him close and uttered a final, raw word. He plowed into her with one swift stroke, his orgasm so close, he had to stop. Mira didn't, though, her hips rose and fell, taking him completely. She clutched his shoulders, wrapped her legs around his waist and pushed upward. A long, low moan escaped, then she pulsated around him, her woman's rhythm shattering his tenuous control. Nick exploded, thrusting deeply, Mira's name escaping his lips as he tumbled over oblivion's edge. "WHAT IS THIS?" Mira asked as Nick put the loaded plate on the table. They had convened to the kitchen, food hunger temporarily overcoming other appetites. Mira looked at the microwave's clock. 7 a.m. Her time with Nick was ending too quickly. She thought about her decision to admit the fiancé lie to everyone at church. Would Nick ever talk to her again? She had to believe he'd be grateful. He would be free from the demands of Mirror Falls's Chapter 13

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residents. Free from her. Oh, heck. Why did the thought hurt so much? Mira inhaled, smelling the rich scents of eggs, bacon, sausage, and biscuits. She grinned at Nick. "This is your idea of breakfast?" "No fruit in sight," he pointed out. "It's my Heart Attack on a Plate special. Dig in. We still have a couple of hours before we have to leave." She unfolded her napkin and scooped up a forkful of eggs. "So?" "You look too tempting in my shirt. I'm not done ravishing you." The fork clattered to the table. "I'm finished. Besides those shorts have to go. I prefer you naked." "Thank God," he murmured. Then he wagged his eyebrows. "You need food to keep up your energy level." "My energy level's fine," she said, but picked up the fork and began to eat. The food was wonderful, but more wonderful still was Nick's preparation of it. He'd fixed it for her−−a sort of "eat what you like, it's okay with me" sign that warmed her through and through. He cleared his throat and Mira looked up. She stilled. The look on his face was intent, serious, and not at all Nick−like. A butterfly of fear fluttered through her, then she smiled, hoping her uncertainty didn't show. Chapter 13

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"Something wrong, Nick?" He sighed, his gaze troubled. "I like being with you, Mira. I've never felt this way before." "But?" "I don't want you−−I don't want us−−to get this...whatever it is...confused with love." "Okay," Mira agreed, though her insides trembled. She'd known Nick wasn't a forever man. She'd known, in her heart, he didn't want more than an affair. So why did she feel like crying? "I've hurt you." She looked down at her plate and scooped up some eggs. They tasted like sawdust, but she chewed, shielding her thoughts from Nick. "I'm a big girl, Nick. I enjoyed last night. I'll enjoy the rest of the morning." She shrugged. "We had sex. No big deal." His brows furrowed and slammed his palm against the table. Mira jumped. "What do you mean it was no big deal? It was a huge damn deal. It was incredible and special." Stunned, Mira stared at him. "Yes, Nick, it was special." He ran his hands through his hair, then frowned. "You have to understand the way I grew up. My parents were dead and my aunt was very strict. When I finally got on my Chapter 13

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own, I was a wild man. I broke the rules, kicked up my heels, hell, I've even been to jail." Mira put her fork down and folded her hands. She suspected Nick did not share much about his life with others. He looked like a vulnerable little boy, beseeching her forgiveness. Suddenly she understood. He was trying to make up for not loving her by giving her a small piece of his past, showing her a part of himself no one else would see. "I told you about the motorcycle accident. It happened over a year ago. I was married at the time." She couldn't stop her sharp gasp. His smile curved bitterly. "Julia was a real hell raiser. She loved to have a good time. We'd only been married about six months when I had the accident. I'd already realized my mistake in marrying her, but I needed someone. I felt so alone. Scared." He paused and Mira saw him draw a deep breath. "I may have been a rule breaker, but to me, sacred vows spoken in a church before God and each other meant something. But I couldn't provide her a good time anymore. She'd been sleeping around anyway and after the accident, she left me. When I got out of the hospital, she'd cleared out our apartment and our checking account." Mira felt a rush of sympathy coupled with anger. She imagined Nick, alone and frightened, in a hospital with no family or friends to help him. And his own wife Chapter 13

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abandoned him. How could anyone treat him so callously? "I'm sorry." She reached across the table and squeezed his hand. "Yeah, well." He coughed. "I decided to make some changes. I already had my bachelor's degree−−I wasn't a total fool−−so I took the tests to get my teaching certificates. And here I am." "You're quite wonderful," Mira said. "Julia was an idiot." He looked distinctly uncomfortable, so Mira withdrew her hand and began to eat again. Nick followed suit and the silence between them stretched tautly. "We have to get the minivan." Nick shook his head. "I gave the keys to Elvis. He offered to take care of the tire. He'll meet us at the church." Mira frowned, an uneasy feeling creeping across her. "Thanks, but, Nick, next time could you ask me? It is my car." "I was just trying to help. And I wanted to get your clothes off." She didn't return his smile, instead she stood, gathered her plate and took it to the sink. Nick should have asked her about the car. She'd been overwhelmed by so much last night, she'd welcomed the opportunity to forget everything. She'd even forgotten her own Chapter 13

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car−−and it embarrassed her to not remember such an important detail. She never forgot anything. She rinsed out the sink, then towel−dried it, even taking a moment to shine up the faucet. "What are you doing?" Mira looked up, surprised at Nick's irritated tone. "I'm washing my plate." "No, you're not. You're cleaning my sink. And the damn faucet." "So what?" His plate clattered onto the counter. "So stop. Sinks are made to be dirty. Does everything have to be perfect?" "Of course not," she retorted. Nick's jaw clenched and she saw anger glittering in his eyes. It tore at her, but she was through trying to please the ever−changing whims of a man. What had gotten into him? "At least I don't try to control everything and everyone." "Neither do I." "Really?" She leaned against the counter, twisting the towel. "Then why are you so upset about me cleaning the sink?" "It's your incessant perfection, Mira. Everything has to be just so. No one can muddy the carpet. No one can leave a dirty dish in the sink. No one can−−" Chapter 13

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"Stop it," she cried. She flung the towel at him. Rage and pain shuddered through her. "Don't you dare criticize me. I'm sorry I polished your precious sink faucet. If you want to pick a fight, Nick, why don't you choose the issue instead of something so petty?" "The issue is that we are totally incompatible." Mira pressed a hand to her mouth to keep in her sob. She swallowed back the ache in her throat. "Don't mince words, Nick. By all means, lay it all out on the line." She marched out of the kitchen and into the living room, spying her dress near the front door. She blocked the bittersweet memories of Nick's lovemaking. Grabbing it, she ripped off Nick's pajama top and twisted the dress on. Nick followed her as she scrounged around for her shoes, then she remembered they were still at the Teale's house. Tears threatened to spill over, but she refused to cry in front of Nick. Instead, she walked to the front door and opened it. He watched her, his expression unreadable. "I'm telling everyone the truth after church services today," she said. "You'll be off the hook. It would be easier if you weren't there to witness my humiliation." "Don't be a martyr, Mira." "Don't be an insensitive jerk, Nick. Oops. Too late." She wrenched open the door, then slammed it behind her. She managed to get to the Chapter 13

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sidewalk before bursting into tears.

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Chapter 14 SHE'D FALLEN in love with Nick. You're a fool. Mira trudged up her driveway, grateful her home was so close to Nick's. Her bare feet hadn't enjoyed the short walk. She realized she didn't have her keys−−thanks to let−me−take−over Nick Kade. Pounding on the door, she called out, hoping Angel had come home before going to the church. The door swung open and Mira stepped back, shocked. "Donald!" His beady brown eyes took in her disheveled appearance and he frowned that tiny frown which indicated his displeasure with her. "Did you enjoy yourself last night, dear?" The familiar ugly sneer in his tone irritated her. "Stuff it," she snapped, elbowing him out of the way. "Just what the hell are you doing in my house?" "It's my house, too." "Not according to the divorce decree." She noticed the suitcases by the door and spun around. "What are those?" "I've come home." Chapter 14

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"The hell you have," Mira muttered. She grabbed them, heaving each into the yard. The last one burst open when it hit the ground. Donald's shirts exploded like a cloth geyser. "Mira!" He turned wide, disbelieving eyes on her. "This is very unlike you. I expect better−−" "Shut up," she said. "You have nerve. We've been divorced for three years. Divorce means no longer together. Relationship over. Kaput. Go away." "It was a mid−life crisis. I'm back now." He looked from her to the suitcases in the yard. "Let's talk inside." "Let's not." She put both palms against his bony chest and pushed him onto the porch. She slammed the door shut and twisted the deadbolt with a satisfying click. She walked into the kitchen and started a pot of coffee. Tired, angry, and miserable, she entered the breakfast nook and slumped down at the table. The Mirror Falls Gazette Sunday edition was spread across it. Next to the paper was a half−full glass of orange juice and a piece of toast. Donald's breakfast, no doubt, the arrogant pig. Donald had waltzed back into her home...into her life like he hadn't been gone for almost three years. How had she ever tolerated him? She put her chin in her hands and glanced down. "Love at first sight: Kade and Millridge to marry on live television." Chapter 14

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"Oh my God!" She grabbed the paper and scanned the front−page article. An informed source was mentioned several times−−probably Mrs. Bitsinger−−the crafty old bat. Mira laid her head down on the table and covered her eyes. "So is it true? You're getting married again?" Why wasn't she surprised Donald hadn't taken a hint? She looked up. Smirking, he dangled a set of keys from one finger. "No, it's not true," Mira admitted. "You're the first to know my marriage has been canceled. Now get the hell out!" "Mira Suzan Millridge," Donald intoned. "You have developed an amazingly vulgar vocabulary. Cursing−−it's so crude." Mira blinked. She had been cursing. Nick had been right, four−letter words were quite satisfying at times. She peered up at Donald. "Have you always had that bald spot?" Donald's hand automatically touched the back of his head. Mira stood, frowning. "And have you always been this, this bony?" She poked a finger in his chest. "And your nose−−it's so long." She put her hands on hips and gave Donald a good once−over. What had she seen in this man? Thirteen years with the same person must have warped her brain. Or maybe Donald Chapter 14

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had. God knows he'd taken every opportunity to belittle her. And she'd let him. "You're shorter than I remember," she added. Donald stared at her as if she'd sprouted horns and a tail. His mouth opened and closed like a fish. Finally, he inhaled, then sent her a haughty, superior look. "Subconsciously, you wanted me to return. You never changed the locks." "Get real," Mira said, rolling her eyes. "I never thought you'd be back. To be honest, Donald, if you hadn't left me, I would have divorced you, anyway. You're a little, narrow−minded man." She perused him. "And I do mean little." He blushed to the roots of his hair−−or lack thereof. "And," Mira said, stepping into his space, "the list gets longer when it comes to Angel. You're a selfish, arrogant, jerk. You better straighten up, mister, because you've already lost three years with her. She might−−might−−forgive you." "Y−you've changed," Donald said in an awed voice. Mira shrugged. Donald's opinion no longer mattered to her. Nothing really mattered, actually, because the ache in her heart was a constant, heavy reminder of Nick. She could still taste him, feel him. She glanced at the clock. 8:45 a.m. "Darn, I mean, damn." If she hurried, she'd get to the church by ten. She hesitated. No, she wasn't going to Chapter 14

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hurry. She wanted to look her best for the upcoming humiliation. Who cared about being on time for something like that? She looked at the man before her. She felt nothing. Zip. No resentment. No self−pity. No remorse. Sometime during the past week, everything had changed. She had no desire to please anyone but herself. Donald had no hold over her. She was in charge. She always had been. Ignoring Donald's wide−eyed stare, Mira walked over to the kitchen counter, opened the flour container and dumped the contents on the floor. White powder flew everywhere, coating the cabinets and her legs. It felt good. She'd never created any kind of mess just for the sake of messiness. She looked around the kitchen. Everything perfectly placed. She walked into the living room, checked out the bathroom, studied her bedroom. Nothing out of place. Oh heavens. She was a neat freak. She walked back into the living room and tilted the picture hanging over the fireplace. "Much better." "Mira, honey, I know a good therapist." "You should make an appointment," she replied. She sent him a narrow look. "Why haven't you left yet?" Chapter 14

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He scurried backwards. "I'll see you at the church." "Talk to your daughter while you're there," Mira directed. "Beg her forgiveness and then go buy her something really big and expensive." "Y−yes, Mira. Of course." She followed him to the door, bolted it after him, then shoved a chair under the doorknob for good measure. Obviously, Angel wouldn't be home before church started. Mira rubbed her throbbing temples. She had to speak with Angel. They needed to talk about so many things. And now Donald had entered the scene. Mira didn't hurry. She took a bubble bath, trying not to remember the three a.m. washing she'd received from Nick. Her body tingled. If only he loved her, but she knew he didn't think himself capable of the emotion. Nick was disillusioned. And stubborn. Impossible. Now that Mira had found her pride again, she knew she couldn't relinquish it to any man ever again. Not even the man who held her heart. Mira chose a simple blue summer dress, and decided against underwear. It was a weird way to remember Nick, but she didn't care. She left her hair down and slipped on a pair of shoes. Unfortunately, she'd forgotten the minivan wasn't in the garage. Everyone had probably Chapter 14

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already left for church. Except for one person. She bowed her head. "Damnation!" "YOU'RE A jack ass," Nick said to his reflection. He straightened his tie, brushed back his hair, and grimaced. He wanted to smash the mirror. Why had he let Mira leave that way? Pride? Stupidity? Selfishness? All of the above. The hurt had shone as bright as her tears. Why'd he have to get so pissy about the sink? Nick loosened the tie, staring at his own green eyes. A deep ache had been crushing him since Mira left. The heaviness in his chest affected his breathing, damn it. And she would be at the church−−on time in a perfect dress with a silly knot in her hair−−and confess her supposed duplicity. He'd stop her first, of course. She'd accused him of control tactics and he'd accept it. Because he refused to give Mirror Falls anything else to gossip about. And he refused to let Mira sacrifice her pride in front of the entire town. He walked into the bedroom, staring at the unmade bed. Mira's scent lingered there. He saw a ghost of her image sprawled, naked and beautiful, calling his name. Chapter 14

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God, what perfectionist had he ever known to wear thong panties? Had there ever been a woman who'd cussed just to feel his touch? Mira was kind and generous−−too generous sometimes. She was smart and funny and nice and passionate...and oh hell, why had he let her go? MIRA SCOWLED at the phone, loathed to call Nick. She could walk the five miles to church−−but in the muggy August heat she'd probably have a stroke. And Mirror Falls was too small to support cabs or buses. She wondered about Donald's car, then realized she'd sent him on his way. Her hand curled around the receiver. If he said no, she'd still be in the same circumstance, so.... She jumped up. She couldn't call him. She didn't want to face rejection again. Not even rejection of a silly car ride. She'd walk−−stroke or no stroke. As she closed the door behind her, she heard the cough of an engine. Turning, she caught sight of Mr. Bitsinger backing out his 1957 Ford. "Mr. Bitsinger!" She ran, practically throwing herself in front of his car. "Mira, that you? Ain't you getting married, girl?" Chapter 14

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"I need to get to the church," she said, getting inside. "I'm sorry to be so rude." "Eager beaver, huh?" Mr. Bitsinger pulled out into the street and sped up to a whole ten miles an hour. "Yep. I was, too. Me and the missus been married forty−eight blessed years." "That's wonderful," Mira said, trying not to clench her teeth as she watched the speedometer. "Do you think we could go a bit faster?" "Speed limit," Mr. Bitsinger said. "Right." Mira closed her eyes and counted to a hundred and ten. When she opened her eyes, they'd gone about two miles. She glanced at her watch. In five minutes services would be concluded, and she'd lose her chance to speak. They crept into the church parking lot and Mira resisted the urge to jump out of the vehicle. Mr. Bitsinger circled the lot three times before finding a suitable spot. Despite her impatience, Mira waited for him to get out of the car, lock the door, put the keys in his pocket, and finally, finally, shuffle toward the church entrance. When Mira and Mr. Bitsinger entered the building, people milled around smiling and laughing. Mira sighed. Too late. Services were over and she'd lost the opportunity to set things Chapter 14

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right with the town. And with Nick. She craned her neck, trying to find Angel among the people in the large, red−carpeted foyer. At least she could still talk to her daughter and settle things between them. "There you are!" Mrs. Bitsinger kissed her husband on the cheek, then latched onto Mira's arm. "We have a surprise for you, dear." Dread and resignation filled Mira. She couldn't escape fate, at least not the fate engineered by the residents of Mirror Falls. She followed Mrs. Bitsinger reluctantly. Maybe she should just confess everything to Bits O News herself. The whole town would learn of Mira's deception within the hour and she could go home and start packing. Instead, she trailed Mrs. Bitsinger through the chapel, down the hall, and into the large kitchen/dining area where the church hosted bingos and luncheons. As they entered, an overwhelming urge to run attacked her. A huge banner proclaiming, "Congratulations Nick and Mira" hung against the back wall. Every resident in Mirror Falls appeared to have crowded into the room. "We just wanted to celebrate your happiness," Mrs. Bitsinger said. The woman's eyes teared up. "You've had it rough since you−know−−I mean, Donald left. We all thought he was a fool. And now you have someone who truly loves you." Chapter 14

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Mira blinked in shock. Mrs. Bitsinger−−heavens, the townspeople−−thought Donald was the fool. She'd always thought they'd looked down at her for not...Mira stopped. Another revelation to think about−−later. God, they were toasting her happiness to a man she'd engaged herself to with a lie. She wanted a hole to swallow her. She wanted to spontaneously combust. She wanted desperately to be engaged to Nick. "We were also hoping you'd forgive us intruding on your big day," the mayor put in, joining them. "We wanted to make up for any misunderstandings." He stared pointedly at Mrs. Bitsinger. The old lady stared back. The mayor sighed and dropped his gaze. "Hello, little mama," an Elvis−like voice intoned. As Frank, Zach and Howard circled her, Mrs. Bitsinger nodded at Mira, then dragged her husband over to the punch bowl. The mayor was pulled away by the sheriff to taste the "god awful" potato salad. "Hello, Mira," Howie said. "We wanted to−−" "Getcha to the church on time," Frank interrupted. He curled his lip in an Elvis sneer and tugged the purple cowboy hat. "We're at the church," Zach pointed out. Chapter 14

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"We also wanted to speak with you," Howard said. "Angel told us about the personal ad. She admitted she placed it without telling you." Mira digested this new knowledge. So Angel had started her own confession crusade. Pride welled in Mira. Her daughter had done the right thing. "It must have been difficult for her to face you all." "No, ma'am, she's a right fine youngster," Frank said. "Said she'd be grounded for life, but wanted us to know she was sorry." "Oh dear." Mira shook away the confusing swirl of feelings. Angel and Nick and Donald and personal ads and fake fiancés. She'd had an entirely too busy week. "I wouldn't have met Tilly if I hadn't come to Mirror Falls," Zach said. "I'm grateful to Angel for that." "And Cyndy wouldn't be my love muffin," Howard added. "And I wouldn't have met Annabelle Lee," Frank joined in. "The sheriff's daughter?" Mira exclaimed. Frank nodded, his smile tender. "I'm her hunka hunka of burnin' love. All 'cause of Angel." Mira narrowed her eyes. "This is an Angel rescue party, isn't it?" Chapter 14

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The three of them flushed guiltily, then all talked at once. "No, you see−−" "She was really sweet and−−" "Brought tears to my−−" "She's not grounded," Mira interrupted. She received three wide grins. "Well, now," Frank said. "Mission accomplished." Mira crossed her arms. "Have you seen my daughter?" They pointed to a corner of the room. Mira spotted Angel leaning sullenly against the far wall. Donald stood next to her, his scrawny arms gesturing widely. Angel did not look too thrilled to see her father. Then Nick appeared out of the crowd, a frown creasing his face as he stalked toward Angel and Donald. What did Nick think he was doing? Grabbing Donald's jacket, that's what. She watched, open−mouthed, as Nick curled his fist and.... "Nick, don't you dare!" she shouted, then hurried forward.

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Chapter 15 MIRA GRABBED Nick's raised arm and shook it. "Are you crazy?" "No. I'm pissed off," Nick released Donald and turned his furious gaze on her. "He hurt you and Angel. He deserves a punch in the mouth. And he was yelling at Angel." Several emotions crashed through her. Amazement, anger, delight, confusion, love, hope. She plucked anger out of the bunch because the others were too intense, too frightening to deal with. "I don't believe in violence," she said, then kicked Nick heartily in the shin. "But I'll make an exception for you." He stepped back, his mouth a thin line. "So you want him, is that it? He's back and now you can be a family again, right?" Mira reeled in surprise. Nick expected her to choose Donald? "Is that what you think of me? You think I'd−−I'd go back to a man who used me as an emotional punching bag?" "I did not," Donald interrupted in a shocked voice. "Shut up," Nick growled. He looked at Mira, his gaze softened. Suddenly she saw the message there. Fight, he seemed to say, fight and we can end the charade. He didn't believe for a moment she'd return to her marriage with Donald. He was giving her the Chapter 15

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opportunity to save face. Darn him. "I can't do it this way," she whispered. "I'm sorry, Nick. I have to tell the truth." She turned away, facing Donald and Angel. Ignoring the curious onlookers, she ushered them to a quiet corner. "Donald, our relationship is over," she said. "But you can still make things right with Angel." She looked at her daughter and saw her sheen of tears. "Baby, I know your father's actions may seem difficult to forgive, but he is your father. This isn't the ideal time or place. There's so much going on, but I want you to give your father another chance." "I don't know if I can," Angel replied. The tears spilled onto her cheeks. "He left me." She glanced at him, vulnerability in her eyes. Donald seemed to shrink. Mira thought he looked older, maybe wiser, and certainly contrite. He put his hands into his jacket pockets−−a nervous gesture she'd never seen before. "I want to try, Angel. We can go to the park or something." "Geez, Dad, I'm a little old for swings and slides." "I'll buy you a car." Angel's eyes widened at the offer designed to melt any teenager's heart. "Really? A convertible Mustang?" Chapter 15

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"Whoa..." Mira said, holding her hands up. "We'll discuss the car. Right now, I need to talk to Angel alone." Donald gave Angel an awkward hug, then turned to Mira. "I made some mistakes, Mira." He smiled tentatively. "I−I wish you happiness with Nick." He squeezed her shoulder, then left, walking to the dessert table. A day for miracles, Mira thought. She'd never believed Donald would actually look at himself to find the fault. "Mom, I'm sorry about placing the personal ad," Angel blurted. "I know I'm grounded for life. I'm sorry. I didn't know you and Mr. Kade...Nick had been seeing each other." Mira took Angel's hands. "I know about the personal ad." "I told Nick at the barbecue and he said I should tell you right away. H−he said I made you sound like a housewife for rent. I went to admit everything, but then that guy, you know...yuck," Angel said, a look of disgust crossing her face. Even Mira shivered a little. She never wanted her toes in anyone else's mouth again. "I thought I'd get a chance this morning," Angel continued. "I apologized to the guys. I told them what I'd done. Mom, I'm so sorry." Mira heard the misery in Angel's voice and knew her daughter had learned a valuable lesson. Mira's initial anger had vanished−−especially under the onslaught of her own guilty Chapter 15

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lie. She smiled. "You're not grounded, honey. I know your intentions were good, but don't ever, ever do something like this again." Mira inhaled a breath, preparing herself for Angel's reaction. "About Nick, we aren't really−−" "Everything okay, Angel?" Ned, Lizzy, and a boy wearing a nose ring joined them. Ned took Angel's hand and looked at Mira. "I know it's none of my business, Mrs. Millridge, but Angel only wanted the best for you." "Oh for Pete's sake," Mira said. "She is not grounded." "Cool," Lizzy said. "Have you told her about piercing your tongue?" "Please," Mira groaned. "I don't want to know." "Time for a toast!" Mrs. Bitsinger appeared and yanked Mira along to a white lace table that held several dozen bottles of champagne. Nick stood there, a glass of bubbling liquid in his hand. Mrs. Bitsinger shoved one into Mira's grasp. "Toasts to the happy couple," Mrs. Bitsinger trilled. "Who's first?" "May they love each other tender," came Frank's southern drawl. "And get all shook up in happiness." People laughed and drank. Nick tapped his glass with hers and sipped. She did, too, Chapter 15

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trying not to choke on the pale, sweet liquid. "Didn't see you in church," he said, his expression unreadable. "I figured you changed your mind." She knew the question he was asking. She shook her head. "I have to do it, Nick." With everyone gathered in honor of their fake nuptials, she had another opportunity to set things right. She wasn't going to allow another unforeseen obstacle to prevent her. His lips thinned. "You're too stubborn for your own good." "Bite me," she said sweetly. "May your love bloom and grow," Cyndy's voice called out. "And don't forget to prune those thorns!" More laughing, tapping, drinking. Several more toasts rang out and Mira felt worse and worse. For a moment, she imagined her and Nick were truly engaged, that all the well wishing and cheers and teasing meant something. But reality intruded. If she'd stopped the lies in the beginning, she and Nick may have had a chance. But she'd ruined everything and there was nothing left to do except to admit her mistake, face it, and live with it. She had to stop this. Now. Chapter 15

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"Everyone," Mira spoke above the chattering. "I have something to say." "Sshhh," Mrs. Bitsinger said. "Mira wants to toast the groom!" "Don't do this," Nick whispered in her ear. "Don't let your pride get in the way of common sense." She turned to him and her breath caught. Handsome even when angry, she thought. She ached to touch him, but clenched her fists. Nick had given her so much−−more than he would ever know. She wished things were different, that she had another chance, but she'd blown it. And Nick, for reasons she still didn't understand, was willing to end the lie with another lie. "I can't live with myself," she replied. "I'm not asking you to understand. I'm asking you not to interfere." His gaze caressed her face and she didn't want to interpret the emotion in his eyes. It was too soft, too tender, too much like love, for her to tolerate. She turned and faced everyone, her heart breaking at all the smiles aimed her way. "You've all been very kind," she said. "But I'm afraid there's been a huge misunderstanding." She took a deep breath. "No. It's not really a misunderstanding. It's...we lied." Her voice broke and she looked down at her feet, unable to stop trembling. Nick Chapter 15

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steadied her, but she pushed away his grasp. "Mira, don't." Nick's soft plea knifed her. She rushed ahead, afraid the courage would desert her. "We lied about the engagement to get rid of some unwanted blind dates." She sent an apologetic glance to Howard. "It was a stupid, childish thing to do." The tears felt hot on her cheeks and she swiped them away. "I feel awful. J−just terrible. I'm so very sorry." "She's lying," Nick said in a calm voice. "I made her believe I'd marry her so she'd go to bed with me." Mira's head snapped up and she stared at Nick in shock. The crowd's murmurs turned into a collective gasp. "What are you doing?" she hissed. "Stop it." "She's a forever kind of woman," Nick continued, his gaze unwavering. "I knew that and took advantage of it." "It's not true," Mira cried. "The thing is..." Nick put down his champagne and drew her into his embrace. "I fell in love with her. And I want to marry her." He caressed her cheek with his thumb, and Mira bit back a sob. Nick was slicing away pieces of her soul with each lying word. Why was he doing this? Chapter 15

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"Is this revenge?" she whispered. "I never meant to hurt you, Nick. But you're killing me." His brow furrowed. "Mira, I'm serious. I want us to go through with the wedding." "Whatever for?" He jerked back, looking as though she'd slapped him. "I love you," he said. "Damn you, that's the biggest lie of all." "Well," the mayor demanded, stepping forward. "Which is it? Ya'll getting married or not?" "Not!" Mira yelled. She pulled out of Nick's embrace, but he held onto her elbows. "I don't understand," Nick said and Mira saw the hurt glimmering in his eyes. "I thought you loved me, too." "Am I supposed to be grateful for your sacrifice? You're willing to go through with a fake marriage just to−−to...I don't even know why!" Nausea roiled through her. Nothing made sense to her anymore. How could Nick possibly love her? He'd made it clear he didn't believe in the emotion. Now he was spouting the word as if he'd said it to her every day of his life. "You don't believe in love, Nick," she said, her voice shaking. She pulled away from his Chapter 15

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touch. "It's not a word you can throw around and mean one day and not the next." "What in the blue blazes is going on!" Mrs. Bitsinger interrupted. "You two are in love and that's a fact." "There isn't going to be a wedding," insisted Mira. Her gaze swept across the townspeople. Expressions varied from confused to concerned. Then she saw Angel. Her daughter was crying, comforted by both Ned and Donald. Pain ripped through Mira. She felt battle−weary. She'd disappointed so many people, including herself. She needed to think, to re−evaluate, to cry uncontrollably. Mira whispered one more, "I'm sorry," then turned and fled. "WE'LL ORGANIZE a search party," the mayor said, pounding Nick on the back. "Women get a little crazy about their wedding day. Why, my Mabel threw up on my shoes right after our ceremony." "I still don't understand what happened," Mrs. Bitsinger exclaimed. "Everything was going perfectly well. Doesn't she like purple? Maybe we should switch to pink." "Purple is fine," Nick said. He looked up and saw Angel. She put her arms around him Chapter 15

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and he enfolded her, grateful for her silent support. She stared at him, her lower lip trembling. "It's all my fault, isn't it? If I hadn't−−hadn't placed that ad, Mom wouldn't have done something so desperate." She grinned through her tears. "No offense." "I'm the one at fault," Howard put in. "I was too persistent and−−" "Stop it, all of you," Nick said, stalling another probable confession from Zach's open mouth. Nick released Angel. He looked around the room, automatically scanning for Mira, though he knew she wasn't there. People milled around in confusion, most speaking in hushed voices and eating from the tables filled with food and drink. "All right," said the sheriff. "We'll set up a parameter search. Nick, you start at her house. The mayor, Zach, and Howard will go downtown..." Nick's thoughts drowned out the sheriff's firm voice. He knew Mira loved him. But her accusations had cut him to the core. Was it only this morning that he'd sat at his kitchen table, arrogant and in control, telling her all the reasons he didn't believe in love. And she'd taken his words to heart. How could he convince her otherwise? How could he make her believe he'd been a blind, stubborn fool? He imagined his life without Mira. Bleak. Empty. She brought light Chapter 15

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into his darkness. Made him laugh. Frustrated him. Offered herself openly and without conditions. She'd never demanded one promise, one change, one single thing from him. "Nick?" Angel tugged on his sleeve. "Want me to go with you?" "No, there's something I need to do." He kissed her forehead. "Is everything okay with your dad?" She shrugged. "We're negotiating." "Don't worry, Angel. Everything will work out." "I hope so." She paused. "I think Mom loves you. Do you love her?" "Yes," Nick said simply. "Okay, people, let's move it." The sheriff clapped his hands. "We have a bride to find." "The wedding is at five o'clock sharp," Mrs. Bitsinger called out as the group moved toward the door. Donald stepped in front of Nick and pressed a set of keys into his hand. "She never changed the locks," he said. Nick nodded and took the keys. It was time to find his bride.

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INSTEAD OF running away from home, Mira had run to home. But where else did she have to go? Frank had returned her keys, so at least she had wheels if she figured out where it was she wanted to go. Feeling anxious and edgy, she collapsed on the couch, throwing the neatly folded afghan onto the floor. She needed to practice the messiness concept. She resolved to eat crackers in bed. And to splash water on the bathroom floor. And spill something at least once a week. Mira burst into tears. Nick. If only his words of love had been real. If only...well, did it matter? She'd have to wake up tomorrow and face the consequences. The looks, the whispers, the shaking heads. "Oh who cares," she muttered. Let people think what they wanted. But she'd have to find a way to make it up to Angel. Her daughter's opinion still counted. Nick's proclamation of love stunned her. For a second, she'd believed him. She'd accused Nick of being a controller. Maybe that was why he'd jumped in and tried to save her from herself. Honesty forced her to admit a man who made a Heart Attack on a Plate breakfast wasn't interested in controlling another person's actions. At least what she ate. What about...she frowned, unable to pinpoint the exact time she'd leaped to the conclusion that Nick was the Chapter 15

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same as Donald. Her heart admonished her hasty actions, and the truth settled heavily upon her. Nick hadn't tried to control her. Her automatic defensiveness had worked against her, skewing her perceptions. She'd thrown Nick into the same category as her ex−husband without even thinking about it. Yet earth−shattering kisses and cholesterol breakfasts and punching out toe suckers did not mean Nick loved her. Did it? The tears began anew and she burrowed her face into the couch cushion. It smelled like potpourri. She sneezed. Sobbed. Hiccupped. Mira felt like her soul had imploded. "Sweetheart..." Oh God. Now she was hearing Nick's voice. Almost as if he stood over her, calling her name. She cried harder. "Mira, honey. Stop crying." Strong arms wrapped around her and she found herself lifted and settled onto Nick's lap. She looked at him and hiccupped. Chapter 15

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"W−what are you doing here? Go away." She invalidated the words by touching his face, brushing back his hair. He kissed her, his lips moving over hers so tenderly, she trembled. "Nick?" "The picture over the fireplace is crooked," he murmured. "And there's an unfolded blanket on the floor." His voice held wonder. "I'm practicing," she whispered. "I've resolved to be messy." He chuckled and hugged her tightly. "My sweet Mira. God, I've been such a fool." Nick stood, carried her to the door, then out to his jeep. He clicked the seatbelt around her, then got in and started the car. Dazed, she stared at him. Everything felt surreal. Maybe she'd fallen asleep on the couch and she was only dreaming Nick had kidnapped her. "What are you doing?" she asked. He looked at her, brows raised. "I'm going to prove my love for you."

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Chapter 16 MIRA DIDN'T know what to expect. Nick's declaration had sent her into a tailspin. She was afraid to speak, afraid to dispel whatever magic spell Nick was under. When Nick pulled the jeep into the driveway of his house, Mira turned to him. "What are we doing here?" "I need to show you something." They exited the jeep and Nick clasped her hand, leading her through the front door, past the living room, and into the kitchen. The frilly yellow curtains caught her attention immediately. Puffy, eye−blinding, and well, ugly, she could hardly not notice them. They'd been tacked around the large curtainless window near the back door. The material brushed the black and white tiled floor, a pool of cloth sunshine. Then she saw the plants on the windowsill. And the counters. And the kitchen table. And on top of the refrigerator. "I don't understand." Mira knew Nick had done a significant gesture. Obviously curtains and plants meant something she was supposed to comprehend. Only she didn't. Nick frowned. "You don't like yellow? Your kitchen's done in yellow, so I Chapter 16

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thought...well, hell, we can get a different color." "Yellow and black and white don't go together," she pointed out. "We'll redo the kitchen," he said. "We'll redo the entire house. Do you want more plants?" She shook her head. "No. These fifty should be plenty." For what, she didn't know, but her heart began to pound, and giddiness made her twist her hands. Was Nick suggesting a more permanent relationship? "Maybe you want to live in the other house. We can buy a whole new house. Or we'll just−−" "Nick, do you want us to live together?" He drew her into his embrace, then brushed a kiss across her mouth. "I want more than that, sweetheart. I want to marry you. We'll redo the whole house if you want. I'll shine the sink faucet every day. I'll dust under the couch and change the light bulb in the refrigerator once a week." "Nick," Mira laughed. "You don't have to modify anything for me." He gestured around them. "We can change anything in this house. What I can't change is the way I feel about you. I love you." Chapter 16

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She inhaled sharply, tears gathering in her eyes. "But just this morning, you said you didn't believe in love." "I also said I never felt this way about anyone before. I didn't know it was love, not until you plowed your way through that damned confession. You go after what's right−−not what's perfect." He smiled. "It hurts to breathe when you're not around. I can't be without you, Mira. Please...do you love me?" The tears spilled over. "I'm afraid you have a pay a word toll," she sniffed. Nick's gentle fingers wiped her face, but his eyes darkened with desire. "For every word I say," she continued, "you have to touch me." "I." Nick trailed her ribcage slowly, settling against her hips. "Love." Warm strokes over her hips, down her thighs, then under the dress, until his hands rested on her waist. "You," she breathed, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him. Nick's fingers slipped downward and stilled. He broke the kiss, looking down at her in shock. "You're naked under this dress." Chapter 16

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She moved closer to him. "I must have forgotten to put on panties." His gaze was skeptically loving. "Forgot, huh?" Mira smiled and lifted her shoulders nonchalantly. "I'm not perfect, Nick." "The hell you're not." He swung her into his arms and stalked out of the kitchen. "Where are we going?" she asked even as they entered the bedroom. Nick laid her on the unmade bed and began loosening his tie. "We have a few hours before the wedding, Miss pay−a−word−toll." His wicked grin sent hot sparks dancing through her. "Hot damn," she sighed, then opened her arms. "YOU MAY kiss the bride," Frank a.k.a. Elvis intoned. Nick lifted Mira's purple veil, and kissed her soundly. Cheers, whistles and clapping erupted in the chapel. "I love you," she whispered against his lips. "You better," he answered. "You're mine forever." Her amber eyes darkened. "When's the honeymoon?" "Oh my, oh dear," Mrs. Bitsinger said, sobbing. "That was the most beautiful ceremony. I wept when he sang 'Love Me Tender'." Chapter 16

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Mrs. Bitsinger hugged them both. Others came forward offering best wishes and congratulations and knowing grins. Nick accepted hugs and kisses, keeping his arm tight around Mira. What a circus! He looked at the reporters gathered in the back, and then saw the mayor leading a camera crew between the pews. "And this," the mayor boomed, pointing at the east wall of the room, "is the genuine Wall of Historical Occurrences in Mirror Falls. Our one−room schoolhouse is a museum of the past. And a church on Sundays." "Mom!" Nick and Mira turned and Nick saw Angel, Ned, Lizzy, and Napalm standing behind the pulpit. Nick followed Mira up the two steps to a movable stage. Angel hugged Mira, then Nick. Joyous tears glittered in her eyes. "You're happy, Mom. I'm happy. We are so..." "Happy," Lizzy said, snapping her gum. "Get on with it already, Angel." Angel glared at Lizzy, then handed Mira a sheet of paper. "It's sort of a wedding gift," she said. "I still feel bad about the personal ad. I wanted to make it up to you." "Oh, honey," Mira said. Chapter 16

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As she looked down at the paper, Nick looked over her shoulder and read it. "Found: true love. Forgiving mother found man of dreams no thanks to interfering daughter. Applicants to Box J−3 no longer need apply." "It's another ad?" Mira asked. "I placed it in the same newspapers," Angel said. More hugs and kisses and tears. Nick winked at Angel. "You did good, kid." She blushed, then made shooing motions. "Elvis has the Cadillac ready. Go start your honeymoon!" Nick grabbed Mira's hand. "That's best idea I've heard all day." Her brows rose. "Oh really?" "Second best," he amended quickly, then pulled her into his embrace and kissed her breathless. They left the church, trailed by well−wishers and reporters. Birdseed flew skyward, scattering across the ground and the Caddy. Nick tucked his bride inside, then rounded the trunk, stopping to stare at the large sign hanging on the bumper. He laughed, found Angel's mischievous expression in the crowd, and waved to her. He slipped inside, taking Mira's hand and pressing it against his lips. Her brown eyes Chapter 16

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shone with love and passion. An answering love swelled in his heart. Mira made him feel complete. Mira Kade was much more than a cookie−making, fund−raising, trying−to−be−messy, thong panty−wearing not−quite−perfectionist. She was his heart, his soul, his next breath. Yep. Nick had to agree wholeheartedly with the sign now trailing in the dirt behind the Cadillac as he drove away from the schoolhouse/church/museum. HOUSEWIFE NO LONGER FOR RENT.

Michele R. Bradsley In−between changing diapers, going to Girl Scout meetings, fixing spaghetti dinners, answering questions like "Honey, why are my socks glued to the floor?" and committing plant homicide (you mean you have to water those green thingies?), Michele R. Bardsley writes novels. She also finds time for eating chocolate and drawing smiley faces in the accumulated dust on her furniture. Michele R. Bradsley

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An award−winning writer, Michele has been published in short fiction and non−fiction. She lives in Las Vegas with her husband, two adorable children, and two neurotic cats.

Michele R. Bradsley

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