Contents

Chapter One Chapter Two Chapter Three Chapter Four Chapter Five Chapter Six Chapter Seven Chapter Eight Chapter Nine Chapter Ten Chapter Eleven Acknowledgements About the Author Sneak Peek: The Love Deception

For Lee. Your friendship and support mean the world to me!

Chapter One
Dont you understand? Sarah Walker looked around the imposing boardroom in the vain hope that someone other than the young woman from public relations would appear. Someone more influential. If you dont renew the Trust, the Sanctuary will be forced to close. Sarah gripped the edge of the highly polished table as her future slipped away. Without help . . . She snatched up one of the photos scattered across the table, and brandished it as though the slim photographic evidence could change the mind of this corporate stooge. . . . This species will be extinct within our lifetime. The PR woman closed her notebook. No trace of concern touched her face. She didnt even bother to hide her bored indifference. She probably gave more thought to which colour Italian shoes she should sashay in to work than the plight of orangutans. As I said before, the boards decision was unanimous. She sported a victory smile, as if somehow shed helped make the decision to terminate thirty years of wildlife preservation. Im sorry youve come such a long way and wasted your time. Her vacuous tone made it clear she didnt give a damn what Sarah might have wasted to make the trip to London from the other side of the globe. The woman stood in her ridiculous heels. Clearly, the meeting was over. The Sanctuary also supports twenty local workers. Why didnt this woman get it? Our organisation is the biggest employer in the area. The local village depends on us. Sarah stood. Were the only thing that brings visitors to the region. Without us, many small businesses will die. Thats not our concern. Our decision was made clear to you over the telephone and in writing. Sarah dropped into her chair, folded her arms, crossed her legs and affected her best concreteblock imitation. Id like to speak to someone more senior. If they wanted her out, theyd have to drag her across their fancy corporate carpet. The finance director or at least your boss. The money she needed was a pittance to this British corporate giant. She wouldnt leave without it. She couldnt. So many people were depending on her. She couldnt fail. Will I do? A hot guy in casual clothes leaned on the doorjamb. Great, another flunky. Sarah looked away from the distracting eye-candy. But . . . Something about him. Her gaze flicked back to his face. Her heart skipped like a game of hopscotch and it felt as though the pebbles from a hundred games dropped into her belly. Those eyes. That smile. She blinked hard. Blake! Her stomach backflipped sickeningly. Her fist flew to her lips. It couldnt be. How? She blinked hard, trying to stretch her field of vision that now only featured Blakes gorgeous, deceitful face.

What are you . . .? She stumbled to her feet and stared at the man who, who . . . The man whod opened up her world to passion. The man whod taught her the ecstasy of physical love. The man whod dumped all that in the rubbish ten years ago and disappeared. And here he was, standing in front of her with barely a feather stroke of age on his skin. His eyes glinted with that unusual shade of blue. Sharp and searing like a desert sky in midsummer. His body had changed. Broader, harder. His dark hair shorter but still unruly. The tiny touch of grey, a surprise. Sarah? Blakes eyes flashed wide. Good God. He strode across the room but stopped halfway and stood rigid. The shock vanished from his face and disdain stained his expression, accompanied with barely suppressed anger. He stared as though he expected something from her. As if somehow the next move was hers. She looked away from that hard face of betrayal. Shed fallen so willingly into his bed all those years ago. Shed been young, nave . . . believed in a fantasy. Experience had taught her that life was no fantasy. Thank you, Katie, Blake said to the PR woman, who stood gaping, all traces of superior indifference gone. You can go. Sorry, Katie gushed, fluttering to Blakes side, more attentive than an infatuated teenage groupie with the latest pop sensation. I can handle this. Katie hurled Sarah an I-cant-wait-to-throw-you-out glare. You really dont And shut the door behind you, Blake said with the authority of a man who was used to other people doing his bidding. Katies lips pinched tight, her pretty face suddenly ugly. Of course. She retreated from the office and closed the door. Blakes eyes, now icier than the Arctic in the dead of winter, swung to Sarahs. Ten years without a word and you turn up in my boardroom. His gaze couldve frozen water, but his tone wouldve shattered it. His powerful presence enveloped her, holding her mind captive and her body confused. The boyish cheekiness of those long-gone days had vanished. Instead, he emanated sophistication and wealth despite his casual attire of jeans, jacket and simple white T-shirt. She clenched her fingers. The unwelcome sensation of being out of her depth smothered her senses. Why now? Why here? he demanded. Why after all this time? Im not here to see you. She wanted to scream the words, but they tiptoed out in a shocked whisper. Hed disappeared and she was the one under interrogation? Hed taken her virginity and vanished. Her hands quivered. She collected her notebook and shoved it into her bag. Leave that. He stepped in close, his arm brushing her shoulder. Fire scorched every cell in her body. He took her bag, tossing it down on the table beyond her reach.

How dare you? She pushed past him, snatched up her bag and headed for the door. Sarah, wait. He grabbed her arm. She stared slowly down at his hand on her skin and then back into his blue, blue eyes. Any right you had to touch me evaporated when you left. The words tasted sharp, bitter and rewarding. He didnt loosen his grip. You cant just leave. Breathing hard, she met his gaze. Of course she couldnt. It wasnt just about her any more. She couldnt storm off like an enraged adolescent. She needed to . . . had to . . . But how did she say . . . Blake, theres something I need to . . . And then it hit her. That case. Fear sharper than any blade cut straight to the centre of her heart. It was in all the papers. Shed seen it on the news on the flight over. Something versus Taylor. Oh, God. She gripped a chair hard to steady her trembling body. The court case. The consequences. The pain. A family torn apart. She looked back into Blakes demanding face. What if Blake did the same thing? He was so angry. What would he do when he discovered they were connected in more ways than just a holiday fling? Would he exact some sort of retribution? Fight her just to spite her? What is it? Blakes voice lost a fraction of its harsh tone. Are you all right? She needed to leave. She needed advice. She needed . . . Well, she didnt know what she needed. One false step and Blake could take her life and rip it apart. Again.

Blake Huntington-Fiennes watched his first love walk to the door and wrench it open. His pulse took off at a cracking pace. The Australian beauty glowed as shed done during those heady days in the tropical heat of Brunei. Hed been mesmerised from the first moment hed seen the Amazonian goddess walk across the pool deck of his hotel. Shed walked past him in a simple black one-piece and his heart had stopped. All lush honey-blonde hair and bronzed legs. Her body so toned, so hot. Hed assumed she was one of the Olympic athletes rumoured to be staying at his hotel. When hed spoken to her, his gaze had flittered between those sumptuous lips and those alluring gold-brown eyes. Her hair was now hidden in a tight ponytail, but her killer curves were on display in her simple knee-length khaki shorts and white T-shirt. Delicious heat settled low and deep. Her body still showed the athletic quality of all those years ago. But her eyes . . . theyd lost that dancing, carefree sparkle. Stop, he said. She wasnt walking out of his life again. She turned and silently walked back into the room to collect the series of photos shed left in her hurry to be gone. Blake glanced at the pictures. Shot after shot of monkeys. He picked up a photo of

Sarah, standing in front of a building with a small group of people in work overalls. Dense jungle dominated the background. The Hope Orangutan Sanctuary. He rubbed the skin above his eyebrows. The board had agreed to cease the funding of that organisation a few months ago. It was a legacy project from the days when the companys main area of concentration was business software. The sanctuary had nothing to do with the current corporate direction of Hunt-F Technology. You have something to do with this? He held up the photo. More than something. She reached for the picture. He held it back, waiting for a better answer. The look she lobbed him had a dont-mess-with-me quality. I run it. He frowned at the photo. But youre a journalist. Her laugh sounded hollow and weary. No, I run the Sanctuary for which this company just signed the death warrant. She took the photograph, slid it into her bag and stepped towards the door. There she was trying to leave again. Damn, he wanted her. Nothing had ever come close to that night of passion theyd shared. Perhaps another night with her and hed rid himself of that lingering obsession. Shed be out of his system. Done. What if I could do something about that? he said. Cute creases marred her forehead. What on earth could you do? Interesting. So she didnt know who he was. Have dinner with me tonight and find out. Dont you have to get home to your wife and ten children? she asked, her tone bitter. No wife, he said. And whod have time for children? So, dinner. Ah . . . I dont think thats a good idea. Ill sign a cheque right now for ten thousand pounds if youll have dinner with me tonight. Hed have to postpone a meeting, but itd be worth it. Her eyes widened. You could give the Sanctuary ten thousand pounds? He picked up the phone on the table and dialled. Linda, could you come to the boardroom, please, and bring my personal chequebook. He dropped the phone back into its cradle. My PA will be just a minute. He pulled out a chair. Have a seat. What do you do here? she asked, confusion clouding her eyes. She looked about, as if the answer might hang somewhere on the walls. This and that, he said, taking a seat and leaning back casually as though he was at a bar on a Friday night. A knock announced Lindas arrival. His efficient, middle-aged secretary moved quickly and placed the chequebook in front of him.

Anything else? Linda enquired. Yes, he said, flipping open the chequebook. Book a table for two at The Dorchester for seven tonight. Table Lumire? Blake nodded. Linda left, softly closing the door behind her. He wrote a cheque for ten thousand pounds in the name of the Hope Orangutan Sanctuary and tore it from the book. Ten thousand pounds. He held out the cheque and waved it with sweet seduction. Its yours if you have dinner with me. Dinner and a whole lot more, if he had his way. Sarah was his sweetest memory. A memory that was in serious need of reinvigorating. Then he could snap shut that chapter of his life, permanently.

Blake waved the small life-saving piece of paper a few feet from Sarahs hand. How could he authorise such an amount? What do you do here? she repeated. You really dont know, do you? He looked even sexier with his half-smile. Youve been receiving money from me for nearly ten years. What? But . . . Weve . . . This didnt make any sense. She pressed her lips together and regrouped. We receive funding from the HF Environmental Trust. He looked at her as if her screws werent just loose, they were all seriously defective. HF. Huntington-Fiennes. He said the name as if she was supposed to react, as though hed given her the winning numbers for the next national lottery. Okay, I get it. Hunt-F Technology manage the Trust. And? Are you telling me you dont even remember my name? Of course I remember your name. My last name? She didnt know. Shed never known. If hed ever told her, she couldnt remember. Passion had been the only thing on her mind back then. So . . . you . . . She dropped into a chair. The connection chugged into place like an ancient steam engine. How could she not have known Blake was connected with the Trust? She stared unseeingly across the room. Easily, thats how. Her mother had been involved with the establishment of the Trust. After

shed died, the money had kept coming. Sarah had never questioned it. Her days were frantic just keeping the Sanctuary operational. You . . . You own Hunt-F Technology? He cocked his head and smiled. A superior, self-satisfied smile only a man with confidence branded in his DNA could achieve. Im the CEO. Sarah shook her head, trying to sort out what he was telling her. None of this made any sense. Could it really be that Blake had been so close all along? She couldnt bear to think about it. But you . . . The conversations from all those years ago filtered back into her mind. The days by the hotel pool. Strolling through the manicured streets of Brunei, hand in hand. The intimate dinners. Those tentative plans for a future. The night that . . . She swallowed, but the usually simple action felt difficult and constricted. Ah . . . you were some sort of programmer. Software or something like that. You remember. Remember! Those seven days were etched on her mind and body for eternity. Vaguely. She wouldnt let him see the hurt. Things had irrevocably moved on and it was as though that magical time had never existed. An exquisite moment lost in a life of hard work and struggle. A moment that made the rest of her world drab and grey, except of course . . . So. Dinner. Blake waved the promise of money in the air. She should just leave, but the Brunei Wildlife Administration had given the Sanctuary eight weeks to make urgent repairs. Failure to comply and it would issue a closure notice. The precious paper fluttered temptingly close. Ten thousand pounds wasnt anywhere near the amount she needed, but she could start on critical repairs. Okay, she said. Blake had been absent from her life for ten years; a few hours wouldnt make any difference. Would it? She reached for the money. Tonight. He slipped the cheque into the front pocket of his jeans. Her eyes followed his hand and lingered a little too long. When she met his eyes again, she knew he, too, was reliving hot nights and slick sex. Traitorous heat crept up her neck, but she defiantly held his gaze. Ill give you the cheque tonight. He stood and moved towards her. That way I know Ill actually see you again. Where are you staying? Her heart tap-danced in her chest. She stood, forced her expression into a blank mask and prayed her alarm didnt show. He couldnt go anywhere near the hotel. She couldnt risk it. Not yet. Not until she knew the implications of this situation. Ill meet you at the restaurant. The words poured out too fast. The Dorchester, right? she said, fussing with her handbag.

He stepped in close. Every time he did she lost a little of her mental capacity, and her bodys desires took over the show. How can I trust youll turn up? he asked. This man had an interesting way of remembering the past. Two reasons. One. She thrust her forefinger into the air in case he missed the point. Im not the one with the history of disappearing. Two. Second finger up. I need the money. She slid the rest of the photos into her bag and thrust out her hand. See you tonight. Blake took her hand. The way he captured it was nothing like the quick handshake shed been aiming to deliver. His touch held the promise of a night to remember. I cant wait, he said. She couldnt speak. His touch robbed her of the ability to think, to reason. Her eyes burned brighter than a lighthouse beam across a dark ocean. She turned away. Away from temptation; away from the man whod taken her heart and treated it with such carelessness; away from the man who would steal the most important person in her life. Away. Away. Away.

Leave the country as soon as possible, the lawyer instructed. It felt as though the cord of the telephone was wrapped about Sarahs throat and slowly tightening. Her breath came in short gasps. It had taken her half an hour to find a legal-aid lawyer willing to talk to her. What hed explained was a thousand times worse than any scenario shed imagined. But wont that set us up for an acrimonious legal battle from the start? she asked. Youve read the papers. The Taylor versus Hamilton-Smyth case. Eleanor Taylor lost her house, her business and has had to live in the UK for over a year while this case was being contested. Can you afford to stay in London indefinitely? Because thats the situation you could face. Leave the country and fight this case from Brunei. I have to see him in less than an hour. She leant her head against the cool glass of the telephone box. Cancel. This man is your sons father. He has every right to take him any time he wants and theres not a damn thing you can do about it. Hes the father. While youre in England, dont meet with this man again. I have to. If you want to be in the drivers seat in this custody battle, you need to get back to Brunei. Especially as youve said hes extremely wealthy and youre not. What youre not taking into account is how he will react. Missing ten years of his sons life could make him angry. How well do you know this man?

The lawyer waited for an answer. Shame prevented her from supplying him with one. Your sons father could keep you in this country almost indefinitely, he said. A court could order you to surrender your passports and youll be trapped in England for months, if not years. A muffled voice sounded in the background on the other end of the line. Sorry, Ms Walker, I have to go, he said. My next case is here. Good luck. I dont want to see your name plastered all over the papers. Sarah hung up the phone and left the traditional red English phone box. The sweet warmth from the glorious summers evening did nothing to melt the icy fear that had taken up residence in her heart. Shed have to lie by omission through the whole of dinner. She couldnt leave without that ten thousand dollars. She caught the tube to Marble Arch and walked down Park Lane to The Dorchester. She slowed when the hotel came within sight. A smartly dressed doorman stood in front of the revolving doors. Her palms prickled with moisture and she smoothed them down her simple black shift dress. Shed picked up the outfit from a Sydney charity store during her last fundraising visit to Australia. It might be second-hand but it was designer and fitted her just right. She hoped she wouldnt stand out in all the wrong ways amid the luxury. She paused and closed her eyes for a moment. You can do this. She took a deep breath, and walked quickly to the hotel entrance. Welcome to The Dorchester, the doorman said. Thank you. She walked into intimidating extravagance. All shining brass, glass and marble. She found her way to the restaurant. Good evening. The matre d greeted her with eyes that judged every book by its cover. She swallowed. You dont belong here. You dont belong. You dont belong. Do you have a booking? he asked. Ah. She exhaled slowly to soothe nerves. Yes . . . She looked beyond the matre d into the restaurant. Everything she saw confirmed her fears. She felt like Cinderella before the fairy godmothers magic. No jewels. No designer heels. No silky-smooth hair or manicured nails. Sarah. She whirled in the direction of the familiar voice. Blake walked towards her, looking magnificent in casual trousers teamed with a simple white polo shirt and navy sports jacket. An unexpected record of relief played on her emotional jukebox. Nice of you to show, he drawled.

And just like that they were back to war. She tried to turn away, but before she knew it he was holding her shoulders and kissing her on both cheeks. His touch was more like ownership than affection, but still warmth glowed on her skin where his lips had been. Her mind teetered on a cliffedge of confusion. But the lawyers words hammered through her mind; he could take her son. Mr Huntington-Fiennes. The matre ds expression subtly said is she really with you ? Ah . . . this way please. His smooth professionalism was restored quickly. Blake placed his hand on Sarahs back and guided her through the tables. Sarah noticed several elegantly attired people following their progress towards a wall of curved shimmering lights. People are staring at you, she whispered. No, theyre staring at you. Do you have any idea how stunning you look? Blake said. She nearly tripped at the shock of the sweet words. What was he up to? The matre d drew aside a curtain of lights and Sarah walked into wonderland. A sumptuously laid table stood ringed by a luminescent oval curtain, cocooned away from the other diners. Like being surrounded by a waterfall of diamonds and ice. Blake waved away the matre d and held out her seat. What is this? Sarah asked, settling into the comfortable chair. Table Lumire, Blake said. Were surrounded by a wall of four thousand five-hundred fibre optics. We can see out but they, he gestured to the diners beyond the wall of light, cant see us. Tonight, I thought privacy was paramount. He took his seat across from her and gifted her with a killer smile. Her resolve melted like steel in a mega-watt furnace. She swallowed and focused on the overwhelming opulence. The hand-cut crystal wine glasses, the exquisitely patterned bone china, the perfectly arranged vase of white roses and the man who could give so much and then snatch it all away. Thanks for coming, Blake said, with an expression as trustworthy as his intentions. I didnt have a choice, she replied, running her finger down her highly polished knife. Like getting your own way, dont you? Doesnt everyone? The waiter arrived with the menu and she took time perusing it. The prices! Her dinner alone could cover the cost of her meals at home for a month. Any chance we could have fish and chips in the park and you add the cost of this dinner to the cheque? she asked. No chance. So. She snapped the menu shut and placed it on the table. The Sanctuarys funding . . . how do I

No, he said, holding up both hands. I ban that topic of conversation. She stared at him. What? Sorry, the only reason I agreed to come to dinner was to discuss the Sanctuarys funding. Ill fine you one thousand pounds every time you mention it. He didnt even bother to look at her but scanned the drinks menu. If only hed look up, she was sure her glare was wild enough to kill. Could the man be any more arrogant? Had he always been this way? Back then? The waiter arrived to take their drinks order. Without deference to her, Blake ordered a bottle of champagne. Celebrating something? she asked, layering on some heavy-lacquered sarcasm. You, he said. Dont tell me you havent thought about me over the years. Shed done more than think about him. Shed tried everything she could to find him. For years shed held onto the hope that hed come back. He never did. Nope and Im glad. She sat back, trying to look as though she meant it. Imagine wasting my emotional energy on a man who cares so little for the environment. This would be the best way to survive the evening. Angsty sparring about global issues. Im confused, he said, pinning her with his eyes. Youre the one who lied and Im the one being roasted. Her heart stilled. Lied? Had he found out? What lie? You promised youd be in touch. Her shoulders relaxed. She needed to get a grip. And how do you propose Id have done that exactly? Telepathy? she asked, with hard-worn bitterness. You used me and then you disappeared. She wasnt going to tell him how desperately shed tried to find him. Begging every employee at his hotel for something. A name. A telephone number. An address. Something. Anything. But when you only have a first name and a six-foot brick wall of privacy policies, all the begging in the world still comes to nothing. Whatre you talking about? he asked. You vanished in the middle of the night. Its not like you were trying to bash down my door. I didnt know how to find you. He reached across the table and took her hand. She tried to pull away. He held it more tightly. I bet you still dont have a mobile phone. I left a letter for you at your hotel and at mine. You didnt get either? Unease inched its way up her spine. Her hotel? Ah, that lie. The heady scent of the roses turned sour. No. She slid her hand from his and gulped down some champagne. How convenient, two letters

and I didnt receive either. Thats not the only interesting aspect of this saga, he said, topping up her glass. As soon as I landed back in England, I called your hotel. He placed the bottle back in the silver ice bucket. They had no record of you. Breathing got a little harder. She played with the stem of her champagne flute. But there was no way she was going to allow this to be her fault. He was the Houdini whod left without so much as a thanks-for-the-good-time-baby. I checked at your hotel after you didnt meet me, she threw back at him. Nothing. I cant explain that, he said simply. But perhaps you can clarify why when I called the newspaper you said you worked for, it too had no record of you. You called the Brunei Gazette? Her heart beat harder than a death-metal drummer. She blinked stupidly at him. Hed tried to find her? She averted her gaze to the glowing curtain. Could that really be true? Yes, I called the Gazette, he continued. No one by the name of Sarah Walker worked there. His statement held an edge, sharp and accusing. Ah, that. Well, thats a long story. Ive got all night. The waiter arrived, outlined the evenings specials and took their order. It gave her a few minutes to regroup. As soon as the waiter slipped through the curtain of light, she moved the conversation onto safer ground. The Sanctuary has a government inspection in eight weeks. We need to raise one hundred thousand pounds to make urgent repairs or well be closed down. The words tasted salty and desperate. She hated begging this man. But beggars, choosers and all that. The Sanctuary supports the surrounding community; without us, the local economy will be devastated. Her voice wobbled a fraction towards the end of her little speech. Its now nine thousand, Blake said. She frowned. Sorry? You just cost yourself one thousand pounds. You cant I did warn you. He took a sip of his drink. The crystal sparkled a rainbow, the brilliant dancing colours a disdainful contrast to her situation. She dropped clenched fists on the starched linen cloth and shifted forward in her seat. Look, theres evidence orangutans once lived in the mountains of Brunei. Now its estimated there are as few as forty-five thousand individuals on the entire island of Borneo. Eight thousand. Id quit while youre ahead.

Sarah flung her napkin on the table and stood. This is ludicrous. She was banging her head against a thick wall of arrogance. If you leave, the Sanctuary will get nothing. Sit down and lets have dinner. Pure-grade frustration pumped from her heart. She placed both palms on the table and bent over him. Youre enjoying this, arent you? Well, its certainly the most entertaining date Ive been on for a while. He stood and walked slowly around the table. She couldnt help noticing every smooth movement of his annoyingly sexy body. He held out her chair. Please. She needed to pull it together. She needed to use this opportunity strategically. She dropped into her seat. This is not a date. She articulated every syllable to ensure the message made it past his huge ego. Call it whatever you like. He sat. Im still enjoying it. She didnt answer and looked deliberately around the room, anywhere but at his handsome, smug face. He couldnt force her to talk. In fact, the less she talked, the less chance shed have of slipping up and hurling herself into a legal battlefield. When do you go back to Brunei? he asked. She put her elbows on the table, rested her chin on her hands and stared off into space. She felt his eyes drinking her in. She drummed her fingers on her cheeks to hammer home that all his money, all his good looks, all his flash and show made absolutely no impact. Zero. Youre as beautiful as I remember, he said, his tone wistful and warm. Her eyes committed an unforgivable sin and raced to find his. His striking blue eyes locked on hers, sucking her in with their seductive promise. But she wasnt a nave nineteen-year-old any more. She fixed her attention on a point across the room. The seconds ticked by. New rule, he said. Every minute you dont talk, another thousands gone. She flopped back in her chair and studied him. Were you this annoying back then? Possibly, but you found it endearing. For a moment she was back in that little restaurant theyd discovered not far from his hotel. A world away from the marble monolith where hed been staying. A single candle had lit their table. Theyd feasted on kuih melayu. The memory of sharing those sweet pancakes with the man who loved her so passionately was a permanent imprint on her mind and body. She ran her fingertips across her lips. Why are you doing this? she whispered. Why are you back in my life? It had taken years to scrub him from her heart and she knew shed never really succeeded. Why do you want to have dinner at all?

I need to understand why you didnt call me, he said, his eyes catching the lights. I thought we had something. Blakes expression looked . . . vulnerable? God help her. She couldnt hear this, not now. I didnt know your last name, remember, she flung at him. Anyway, you were the one who left. So, it was a fling, pure and simple. She imbued each word with dismissive conviction. Is that all it was for you? His quiet, questioning tone stripped away her emotional armour, sending a lethal missile straight to her heart. She gripped her champagne glass as though the slight flute could save her from the aching confession pushing to the surface. It wasnt for you? Shed meant to toss the words. Sling them. Fire, shoot, hurl them, but they came out hopelessly wanting and beseeching. Sarah . . . He gently stroked his fingers down the back of her hand. Her lungs held her breath prisoner. Time froze. His eyes searched and probed, compelling her to reveal the truth. But the lawyers words kept her secret so deeply buried that digging it out would require a bobcat. The shimmering veil parted, two waiters entered and the world crashed in. Saut of lobster, the waiter announced with a well-trained flourish. He lay down the gastronomic delight. Blake received his roasted duck foie gras. The moment dissipated; became lost in time like their original relationship. Sarah picked at her lobster. Shed convinced herself shed simply been a holiday fling for Blake. Hed got what hed wanted, then left without a word. Shed been devastated. If only shed listened to her mother. From a young age, her mother had lectured her on the ways of men. Your father left. Your grandfather left. Thats what men do. And Blakes disappearance had validated her mothers doctrine. She jabbed her crustacean with her fork. Time to get onto safer ground. What did you mean when you said the funds have been redirected? she asked. Probably into some new gaming project. Blake raised a brow in warning. I didnt mention the S word, she clarified. She wouldnt let him hammer another resourcestripping nail into the Sanctuarys funding coffin. Nicely phrased. His tolerant smile said, You may have scored a point but Im ahead by a million. So, are you increasing the unnecessary packaging on your products or just topping up your own pay packet? Blake sliced off a piece of foie gras, brought it to his mouth and chewed slowly, not taking his eyes from hers. Sarah shifted in her chair. Finally, he swallowed.

Were building a mental-health wing at St Peters Childrens Hospital, he said. Oh. Okay, so that was unexpected. So she didnt own all the territory in altruism. Helping children is more in line with our corporate goals, as opposed to monkeys on the other side of the world, he said. Orangutans, she said. Theres a difference. She laid down her cutlery. I suppose Hunt-F Tech advertising is going to be plastered all over the hospital. She knew she sounded mean and petty, but this evening was going anywhere but where she expected. No, he said, fixing her with an expression she couldnt read. Therell be no reference to the company. The wing is being named after my father. Another surprise. Sarah remembered Blake had been in Brunei on business with his father. Well, Blake was supposed to be on business, but hed slipped away to spend all his time with her. How is he? she asked. Dead. He delivered the word in a hideous monotone. No feeling. No change of expression. No invitation to discuss. A shiver ran the length of her spine. Oh, Blake, Im so sorry, she said. She wanted to jump up and hug him and steal away some of his pain. But that would not be a good idea. I know what its like to lose a parent. Your mum? he asked. Did he remember she came from a single-parent family? Yes. Sorry to hear it. She was your only family, wasnt she? How Cerebral malaria, she interrupted in the mechanical voice she used when speaking of her mothers death. The Sanctuary had a short-term cash-flow problem. She stopped buying malaria medication for herself to fund the ongoing operation costs. Her death was slow and she was delirious for days before she died. It was . . . She shuddered. Her mother had wept continually most of the time shed been awake and kept saying sorry, over and over and over. When she was lucid, shed begged Sarah to promise to run the Sanctuary. A promise Sarah had kept every day since. Im sorry, Sarah. When did this happen? She couldnt handle sympathy. Especially from him. A man who had tapped into every secret thought shed ever possessed. She was struck down the week after you left. Had she really just said that? She kicked herself for the reference to him. But those dates were etched deeply into her soul. There was life before Blake and life after. Hed affected her forever. Thats why I didnt take up the job at the Gazette. I had to stay home and look after Mum and run the Sanctuary. His sexy frown was back. So let me get this straight. Your mother ran the Sanctuary? You grew up

there? Yes, and now I run it. Do you know you never mentioned that? She knew all right. Really? Her lobster suffered another skewer. I suppose it never came up. Shed made sure of it. So that week in Brunei . . . He sat back with a look of determined concentration. It was your mother who had meetings with my father. That was the week the Trust was established. It was part of the deal the government struck with us to develop its internet network. We had to contribute to a local cause. How could we not have known that our parents knew each other? Sarah asked. Huh, I know parents were the last thing on my mind when I met you. The words melted into her skin and robbed her of breath. It was exactly this sort of charm that had swept her into trouble. Shed fallen so hard, so fast, so unconditionally. Here he was again, eating away at her defences. Being near Blake was as safe as living on Krakatoa in the late nineteenth century. She needed to leave this volatile ground. Well, I had no idea the Sanctuary was associated with Hunt-F Tech or that you were in any way involved. I only became aware of Hunt-Fs involvement when we received a letter from your legal department informing us the Trust would be terminated. Blake frowned. I guess thats possible. The Trust was a completely separate legal entity established as part of the contract with the Brunei government. He shook his head. All these years weve been so closely connected and had no idea. But would it have made any difference? Blake sipped his top-shelf champagne from the crystal flute that sparkled in the glow of four thousand tiny expensive lights. They may be breathing the same air, but that was the only thing they had in common. Except, of course, their son.

As usual The Dorchester was delivering a culinary delight, but Blake couldnt tear any of his senses from the woman before him. Sarah lifted a spoonful of chocolate mousse to her lips. Those lovely full lips. He wanted to reclaim that lush mouth. Run his hands through her glorious long hair, which fell free and framed her face with soft honeyed curls. He placed his spoon down, leaving his summer berries and mascarpone barely bruised. No woman had touched him as she had. He might have been a fling to her, but shed captured him body and heart and soul. It had been dangerous. His desire for her had blotted out the world. But this would be okay. She would be gone soon and that deadly distraction would once again be safely on the other side the world.

She smoothed her napkin across her lips. He tracked the process with hungry eyes. He had to be with her one more time. Then perhaps he could lock away the fantasy of her forever. Id better get going. She pushed back her chair. Thank you for dinner. What? You cant leave, he said. He hadnt intended his voice to be so harsh, but their night would not end here. Blake, I fly back to Brunei tomorrow. So we only have tonight. She tilted her head in a way that drove him crazy. Blake, I think its better to leave things here, dont you? She stood and hitched her bag onto her shoulder. Id like to contribute to dinner, but unfortunately I cant afford it. Have to get back to . . . um, get some sleep. Long flight. She held out her hand. Any chance I could have that cheque now? Could she really walk away this easily? He stood and pulled the cheque from his pocket. He amended the amount, initialled it and handed it to her. If one of her orangutans had arrived in a dinner suit and joined them at the table, she couldnt have looked more astonished. You were serious about fining me? Im nothing if not sincere, he said. Any amount makes a great deal of difference. I appreciate this. She put the cheque in her bag then held out her hand, hesitated, then dropped it. She pecked him on the cheek. Goodbye, Blake. Her voice wobbled slightly. His pulse quickened. She did feel something for him. He knew it. If this is going to be our last kiss, then . . . Why use words? He gathered her into his arms. The warmth of her sweet curves fired his blood. He wanted her closer. He wanted her harder. He wanted her now. Blake . . . He took his name from her lips with a kiss. She softened under his touch. She wanted this, too. God, he had to have her. She dragged her lips from his. People will see. No, they cant remember? Anyway, I dont give a damn. He found her mouth again. She tasted of chocolate and strawberries. Of hot passion and erotic promise. Lets get out of here. He pulled her towards the wall of light. Hed book the penthouse suite. No. She wrenched herself from his grip and slipped through the luminous curtain. He flung the lights aside and strode after her. Put this on my tab, Blake ordered the matre d and followed her out onto the street. Sarah stood

hailing a cab. Running again? he said. You were the one who ran. Disappeared. Vanished from the face of the earth. Her red-hot anger hit him with surprising force. I think weve established that I didnt. No. You denied it. That doesnt make it true. A black cab pulled up and Sarah opened the door. I have to go. Goodbye, Blake. Hell, were those tears in her eyes? The cartilage between his ribs felt as though it had fused solid. He grabbed the door of the taxi. Stay with me. The passion in his voice scared him. He cared too much. Blake, that time is gone. I cant . . . Please . . . The tone of her voice told him everything. Shed known that passion, deep enough to transport you to a place so heavenly that without it, life was forever grey and lifeless and desolate. He caught her about the waist and drew her hard against his body. His pulse flared and smashed away every rational thought. He slid his other hand up the back of her neck and claimed her mouth. Her lips were as warm and lush as a tropical afternoon. He kissed her, hoping all the words he wanted to say were there in his kiss. All the time they had wasted could be washed away. They could relive their hot passion. He wanted her. Now. Now. Now. She slid her hands onto his chest and pushed. No, Blake. We cant . . . Why the hell not? He hadnt meant to sound so callous. Because . . . Because . . . She yanked free, climbed into the taxi and slammed the door shut. The cab pulled into the traffic. Sarah turned and watched him until the taxi rounded the corner. Blake stared at the spot where the cab had disappeared. His blood pumped hot and fast. Sarah had no idea who she was dealing with if she imagined she could just evaporate.

Chapter Two
Sarah stared at the front page of the newspaper. The Taylor versus Hamilton-Smyth custody case occupied a quarter of the page. Her situation was frighteningly similar to Eleanor Taylors. The woman had lost everything in her legal battle to return to Australia with her son. The lawyer was right. She had to get home before informing Blake of his sons existence. Look, Mum. She folded the paper and looked up. Daniel pointed excitedly to a London tourist map spread out on his single bed in their shabby London hotel room. We go left out of the hotel and the Tube is three blocks down. Daniels face glowed with expectation. Every muscle in his young body quivered as though bursting to break the confines of their poky room. He had the body of a whippet, lean and athletic, honed from their outdoor life and hard work. He slid his finger over the map. We come out here at Waterloo and its five minutes to the London Eye. Anticipation danced wildly in his sky-blue eyes. From there we could walk to The Tower, he said, tapping the map, but I think I want to go to Madame Tussauds first. People made of wax sounds so cool. In so many ways, Daniel was wise beyond his nine years. Hed had to face more of lifes harsh realities than a lot of kids, but today he was as eager as a toddler with a new toy. We fly out at six tonight, Sarah said, mussing his short, dark hair. Theres no way we can fit all that in today, darling. Daniel folded his hands across his chest and regarded her with his best nine-year-old stare of disapproval. She loved his solemn face and had to smother a smile. She knew this meant she needed to take him particularly seriously. Come on, Mum, you spent most of yesterday in meetings while I fed ducks in Green Park with Gabby. Ducks! Thank goodness for Gabby. Gabby had volunteered at the Sanctuary a few years ago on a gap year from her English degree. Shed organised a fundraising tour of the UK to make the most of Sarahs visit to her country, and had been kind enough to look after Daniel yesterday. But, Daniel playing with ducks was like giving pussycats to a lion tamer. You owe me, he said. How about we get started and see how much we can fit in? But we need breakfast first. No, lets grab something on the way, he said, shoving the map into her hand. He pulled her out the door and down the hall. The dim yellowy lights hid much of the peeling paint

and grime on the walls, but they couldnt disguise the smell of mildew, age and the odour of some of the establishments less salubrious guests. She wished she could afford a better class of hotel, but shed spent almost all their savings to bring Daniel with her to London. The rickety lift delivered them to the hotel foyer. Ive got to go to the loo, Daniel said. He dashed to the mens toilets. Ill be standing right outside, she called. Yeah, Mum, Daniel replied in a jaded voice and let the door bang behind him. Sarah knew he hated the way shed been hovering around him since theyd arrived in the city. She closed her eyes and leant against the wall to wait. The noise from the traffic further disordered her already jangled thoughts. Shed hardly slept as her mind had churned with a relentless question . . . What do I do? What do I do? Seeing Blake after so much time forced her to reflect on decisions shed never thought shed have to make. Daniel had never had a father. She needed time. Time to think things through. She massaged her brow with her thumb and forefinger but it didnt ease the building headache. She needed to be clear of the mayhem of the city and everything it represented before she could think clearly. Assess the situation. Get proper legal advice. Sensations much more pleasant pushed aside all thoughts of paternity. That kiss on the pavement. She trailed her forefinger across her bottom lip. If Daniel hadnt been here, what would she have done? So I thought we could have breakfast together. Fingers of terror tore at Sarahs heart. Her chest collapsed, depleting the oxygen from her lungs. Her eyes flashed open and she sprang off the wall. Blake stood before her. That way Im sure I can charm you into extending your stay for a few days, he said. He stepped close and examined her face. Whats wrong? Concern stripped the seductive tone from his voice. He laid a protective hand on her arm. Sarah looked wildly at the bathroom door, then Blakes face. She pushed him away. You have to go, she said, her voice high and shrill with raw fear. She grabbed his arm and dragged him in the direction of the front door. Sarah. Stop it. Whats going on? Blake asked, looking around. Hysteria fogged her mind. Her legs moved like iron bars, but her head felt as light as whipped cream. This couldnt be happening. Blake couldnt meet Daniel like this. Why had she brought Daniel to England? She should have ignored his pleas. Left him safely at home. God, could Blake take him now? The lawyer had talked all about a fathers rights and her legal vulnerability if she stayed in England. Mum? Her sons voice sapped the strength from her body. The muscles in Blakes arm tightened under her grip. He looked past her.

Daniel walked slowly towards her. Mum? Blake couldnt know. What would he do? Bile burned in her throat and blood roared in her ears louder than a jumbo jet on take-off. Time moved in jagged flickering frames. Sarah stared at the alarm on Daniels face. She turned. Blakes eyes flared wide. She dropped her hands from Blakes arm and stood between her son and the father hed never known. Tiny black meteorites whizzed from the corners of her eyes, blurring her vision. Blake brushed past her, his body crossing the invisible barrier shed tried in vain to erect. With piercing clarity, she knew her simple life in the jungle was about to splinter faster than trees in the path of a developers bulldozer. You have a son? Shock, surprise and a touch of sadness suffused his tone, as though this revelation had killed something special. Would he guess? Daniels age was a dead giveaway. He had Blakes hair and eyes, but . . . but . . . Would Blake know his son on sight? She swung around. Father met son. She lost the ability to move. The final seconds of life as she knew it slid into the abyss.

Disappointment? Jealousy? Sadness at a lifetime of missed chances? Blake didnt know how to feel. Hed never considered Sarah would be attached. She didnt wear a ring. She hadnt mentioned a husband . . . a child. So, introduce me, Blake said. He held out his hand to the boy. He looked about Roberts age. His nephew had just turned ten. Im Blake. He stared at Daniel. A strange sensation pricked every cell in his body. Those blue, blue eyes. The structure of his face. Hello, Daniel said, his voice formal. He shook Blakes hand. Im Daniel. At the first touch of Daniels skin something sharp twisted deep inside Blakes soul; some force had stormed in every protective barrier and flung the door open to his heart. How old are you, Daniel? His words sounded far away and strangled. Nine, Daniel said. Nine and a half. A half-smile lit his young face. A Huntington-Fiennes smile. Blake whirled to face Sarah. She stood, hands locked over her mouth, her eyes wide as though shed witnessed a hideous crime. The fear and guilt in her eyes extinguished any doubt. Everything about her screamed her confession. He turned and stared at the boy. Daniel was his son and Sarah had planned to keep him hidden. His throat closed over. Fury fired through his heart. Confusion and joy pumped through his veins. He dragged in three quick breaths. Only Daniels presence prevented him from doing . . . he didnt

even know what. He looked between mother and son. I have . . . This is . . . He couldnt structure a simple sentence. He gripped Sarahs shoulder. You didnt . . . Daniels face slowly altered from shy to worried. Mum? he said. His tone begged his mother to tell him how to react. Im frightening him. Hell, his first moments with his son and he was scaring him. Blake dumped cold water on fiery emotions and hauled himself into order. He crouched down next to Daniel. Nine and a half, brilliant. He hoped his overly bright voice sounded sincere. I loved being nine. Cricket. Football. Blake placed his hand on the boys shoulder. Best age ever. He wanted to hold Daniel. Hug him. Know him. Protect him. He didnt know the next move. Didnt know the how-to-act-when-you-find-your-son-after-ten-years playbook. For the first time in forever, he didnt have the upper hand. We dont play sport at home, Daniel said, looking off to the side. Dont have time. Didnt play sport? What nine-year-old boy didnt play sport? Thats a shame. Blakes voice faltered. He realised hed do anything . . . everything . . . hed give the universe to his son if he could. Perhaps we could organise a game of cricket in the next few days. He was amazed the words coming out of his mouth made any sense. It was as though he was on stage acting out a role for the first time and only just managing to remember his lines. We leave tonight, Daniel said, glancing at his mother. I dont think Id have time for cricket. Thanks though. Blakes heart broke at his sons exacting politeness. Daniel, do you mind if I have a quick chat with your mum? Being alone with Sarah could be dangerous. He didnt trust himself not to do something reckless. Ah, okay. Daniel didnt move. How about you sit over there for a minute? Blake pointed to a sofa and gave Daniel a pat on the shoulder. His hand lingered. He wanted to sweep Daniel into his arms. To somehow apologise for the years lost to them both. To atone. Daniel took the map from Sarahs hand and wandered over to one of the threadbare lounge chairs. Blake waited until Daniel walked out of earshot and rounded on Sarah. Her face had faded to a horrible shade of white and fear danced in her eyes. She should be afraid. I have a nine-year-old son? Sarah recoiled at the controlled anger in his low voice. He gripped her arm, drawing her further away. He didnt know what he was going to say, but he didnt want Daniel to hear, as it wasnt going to be good. You were going to leave. Even after youd found me, you were going to leave and not tell me? I didnt know what I was going to do. I . . . She covered her face with her hands. I didnt know

Id see you again. I wasnt prepared . . . She dropped her hands. I was advised . . . I never thought Id see you again. And how hard did you look? Fury fuelled his ice-cold words. We cant do this in front of him. Sarahs pleading voice stole some of the anger from his body. Blake looked over at Daniel. The boy flicked furtive glances in their direction. Blake losing his temper was helping no one. This was his family, not some corporate negotiation. Blake dropped his claim on Sarahs arm. Youre right. He walked over to his son. Sarah shadowed him. Daniel, would it be okay if I tagged along with you and your mum? Blake dropped down on the couch next to his son. He noticed again the appalling quality of the hotel. How could Sarah bring his son to such a dump? Ive got the day off work today and I havent been sightseeing in such a long time. Daniel looked at his mother for permission. Your mum thinks its a great idea, Blake said. Dont you, Sarah? Ah . . . He threw her the look he saved for people who crossed him. Guilt nudged his heart at the anxiety that played across her features. Why the hell should he feel guilty? Keeping a son from his father was an unforgivable crime. Yes, she said, her voice stripped of the brash fight of yesterday. Great, Blake said. Lets get going. Where to? I know lots of great places. Were going to Madame Tussauds first, Daniel ventured. Excellent. I havent been there since I was your age. Perfect. An action-packed day would keep Sarah off guard. He had a plan and just enough time for its execution.

Blake walked through the maze of surreal wax figures. The jarring colours and bright lights of Madame Tussauds did nothing to sort out his mixed-up mood. His son zigzagged excitedly from one famous immortalised icon to the next. He couldnt take his eyes from the child, who possessed a patchwork of his own features. The irony of the situation was almost comical. Being surrounded by copies of famous people as he followed himself in miniature. But comical certainly wasnt at the top of his emotional checklist. Whos that? Daniel asked, standing in front of Lady Gaga. Why does she have a telephone on her head?

He shot a questioning glance at his mother, who had her arm draped protectively over Daniels shoulder. She risked a look in Blakes direction. The expression she found had her looking quickly back at the famous songstress. Thats Lady Gaga, Blake said. How could any child not know Lady Gaga? You knew who she was even if you thought she was ridiculous. Daniel hadnt known any of the movie stars or sports heroes either. She was the top-selling pop star for a while. She looks stupid, Daniel said. Blake laughed. I couldnt agree more. Daniel dashed ahead. He doesnt know who Lady Gaga is? Why is it important to know who she is? Sarah asked and moved to follow her son. Blake caught her hand. How much else doesnt he know? He knows whats important. Sarah joined Daniel, who stared at Beyonc in a skimpy black outfit. Blake watched mother and son. The bond between them was obvious and strong. But he was nothing to his son. Daniel didnt even know he had a father. Or was there another man filling that role? The desire to break something, destroy something, mangle something fired through his blood. He glimpsed Wolverine in the distance. The way he was feeling now he could take out the action hero, regardless of the long steel claws. He shook his head. This wasnt helping. He needed to calm down. He needed to concentrate. He needed a strategy. He didnt know his son or anything about his sons life, and Sarah was the current expert. He looked away, his mood coiling tighter. He wasnt used to consulting others. Sarah and Daniel drifted into the cultural and royal section. Daniel read each plaque and peppered his mother with questions. Whos that? Daniel asked, pointing. Blake moved in next to his son. Thats Usain Bolt. The fastest man on earth. Didnt you watch the Olympics? No. Daniel read the plaque next to the history-making runner. We dont have a TV. You couldnt catch the highlights online? No, our computers not hooked up to the internet. Blakes incredulity spread again like ants from a disturbed nest. He was the CEO of one of the worlds leading computer game companies and his own son wasnt even connected to the internet. What about at school?

Im homeschooled. Were too far from the closest school. Dont you miss Blake, why dont you help us decide where to go next. The Tower or the London Eye? Sarah interjected. We only have a few hours left before we need to get back to the hotel and pick up our bags. He eyeballed the woman whod denied him nine years of paternal happiness. Sure, he said, as lightly as his charcoal mood allowed. The Tower, definitely. You could come back to my place afterwards if you want to see a great view over London. Thanks for the offer. Sarahs voice was tighter than the lycra worn by one of the featured British runners. But we wont have time. Blakes phone buzzed. Excuse me a minute. He walked to a quiet spot next to the tennis legend Rafael Nadal. The sharp concentration on the sportsmans face reminded him to keep his cool. Where are you? Tom, the Head of Hunt-F Techs Special Projects Unit sounded worried. Sorry, Tom. Ive been held up. When will you get here? I need your decision on the processor. I dont know when Ill be back. Something urgents come up. More urgent than Project Everest? The man whistled down the line. Strip out as much of the intel as you can and send the details to my phone. Ill make the decision from here, Blake said. Are you sure everythings okay? Tom asked. Blake understood Toms concern. Everest was the most important project in Hunt-F Techs history. The new game would take Hunt-F Tech from a top British firm to a major global player. Blake slapped a heavy beat on his thigh. The production deadline was incredibly tight and the project topsecret. Sending any aspect of the plan via mobile was a risk. Just get it done. Right, boss. Can you put me through to Linda? Blake walked out of the sports hall and found himself surrounded by world leaders. Barack Obama. Nelson Mandela. David Cameron. All had made tough and complicated decisions in their lives, but he doubted if any of them had ever given the instructions he now outlined to his PA. Linda didnt ask questions. He knew his directions would be carried out efficiently. Blake ended the phone call. He noticed Daniel looking over at him, so he crossed to the boys side. Daniel looked down at the phone in his hand. Thats a cool phone. Does it have games?

It does, Blake exclaimed. I can get you any game you like on this thing. Whats your favourite? He felt a stupid sense of pride handing over his phone. Daniel held the device but didnt tap through the icons at lightning speed like most kids. Instead, he stared at the screen then turned the phone over and over in his hands. I dont have a favourite. Like them all? Maybe his son was like him. Nope, dont know any, he mumbled. Blake hoped he masked the shock that hit his face like a slap. Sarah took the phone from her sons hand and passed it to Blake. Were not really into computer games . . . all that stuff. What the hell does that mean? A look of distress crossed Daniels face. Blakes pulse tripped up a notch. Everything he did seemed to be wrong. Daniel, check that out. You can be filmed over there, Blake said, pointing to an interactive display. Awesome. Daniel ran off. Blake placed his hand on Sarahs back and ushered her with gentle force towards Gandhi on the other side of the room. He hoped the image of the man of justice and peace would help him keep his composure. Sorry, Im finding it a little hard to keep my cool after finding out I have a son whos nearly ten. Listen, when I get back to Brunei, well work something out, Sarah said. Blakes phone buzzed again. He glanced at the screen. I have to take this. He hammered the answer button. What? Blake barked. Henrys here to report in, Tom said. Damn. Hed forgotten about the meeting with his private investigator. Ask him if theres anything urgent. Blake heard a muffled conversation. Everest still appears safe. The competition seems to know all about the Penguin game. Good. Everest is all that matters. Thanks. He clicked off and found Sarah and Daniel in the superheroes room. Sarah quickly ushered her son towards the exit. I think we can take it from here, she said, when he joined them. So are we going to The Tower or the London Eye? Daniel asked. You could queue for hours at both, Blake said. The childish joy slipped from Daniels face. All Blake seemed to be doing was delivering disappointment. He was failing fatherhood 101 on his first day.

Sarah knelt next to her son. Well go next time, darling. Just a minute, Blake said. This he could fix. Flicking through his contacts, he made a quick call. Blake felt the weight of Daniels expectation as heavily as the shareholders anticipation of the HuntF Techs annual financial results. After a few minutes of negotiation, he ended the call. All organised. We have a private tour with a beefeater. Whats a beefeater? His sons eyes glowed. Theyre the ceremonial guardians of The Tower, Blake said, leading them from the exhibition into the weak sunshine. Cool. Can I speak to you for a minute? Sarah asked. Sure, Blake said, pulling his wallet from his pocket. Daniel, do you want to grab three icecreams from over there? Daniel hesitated, as if taking money and buying ice-cream somehow could be dangerous. Really? Sure. He handed Daniel a twenty-pound note. Daniel looked at the money, glanced at his mother and ran off with a smile wider than a kids on Christmas morning. What? Blake turned his hard gaze on Sarah. This is not really how I do things with Daniel. What do you mean? Queue-jumping . . . ice-cream. You object to ice-cream? I dont want him to miss things when we go back home. Mum, Mum! Daniel walked back, balancing three enormous rainbow ice-creams. You have to try this, its awesome. Blake felt petty sending Sarah a smug look, but he had nothing else at the moment. Sarah had all the power. But that, of course, would change.

Please, Daniel pleaded. I can almost see it from here. Sarah glanced at her watch. Darling, we wont have time to go to the Eye. She sat next to Daniel on the grass in front of the imposing White Tower. The castle keep had been built to subdue and terrify Londoners and it still did a pretty good job of inspiring awe. She lifted her camera and captured another few shots. She had to admit theyd had a wonderful time at The Tower. The private tour Blake had organised

had been conducted by the chief warder, whod even shown them sections of the historic castle not open to the general public. Turning up her face to the sun, Sarah enjoyed the faint warmth that touched her cheeks. But even though the sky was the colour of a field of freshly flowering bluebells, a chill drifted up from the Thames. The cold fingers of air made the ominous history of The Tower suddenly all too real. The wisps of breeze hinted of ghosts, death and innocent lives lost. She shivered. Everything about the place had the feeling of doom. You okay, Mum? Daniel asked. Sure, she said, standing and pulling her son to his feet. Its getting a little cool, thats all. She looked over at Blake, who stood nearby thanking the chief warder. Shed get back to their hotel and escape to the safety of Brunei. Then and only then could she work out how to manage the entry of Daniels father into their lives. A couple of The Towers famous ravens landed a few feet away. Although legend had it the ravens protected The Tower and Britain itself, the huge black birds gave her the creeps. We really have to go. The excited expectation disappeared from Daniels face. Come on, Mum, well be quick. The Eye only takes half an hour. Sarah placed her arm around his shoulders. Weve seen so much today. The Tower. The waxworks, she said, walking them towards the exit. You heard Blake before, the queue at the Eye will be awful. Its time to get to the airport. Ill call a taxi, Blake said, joining them. Sarah jumped at Blakes abrupt presence. This place really rattled her nerves. No, its okay. Well take the Underground. At the exit, Sarah shot a few more images, taking advantage of the afternoon sunlight, brilliant on the medieval stonework of St Thomass Tower. Would you like me to take that for you? Blake asked, reaching for her camera. She pulled back a little too discourteously. No. Thanks. She placed the cap back on her generalpurpose zoom lens. No one touched her camera. Sorry. It looks heavy, Blake said. Im used to it. Photographys a hobby? Blake asked. Dont call it that, Daniel piped up. Oh? Blake said. Its her passion, Daniel said in a tone that mimicked his mothers voice perfectly. Blake laughed so loud a small flock of ravens flew a short distance away and perched warily.

Looks like an expensive piece of equipment, Blake said. One of our donors is a photographer. He sends me his old equipment whenever he updates his own. Blake hailed a cab. Let me take you back to your hotel. Thisll be faster than the Tube. A taxi would be quicker. The sooner they were on their way to the airport, the sooner she could relax and think through this new complication in their lives. The cab pulled up and Blake spoke to the driver. He opened the door and they all piled in. So, did you enjoy London? Blake asked his son. Loved it. Daniels voice exuded tired exhilaration. Theres a lot more to do. I know, Daniel sighed. But were going home. One of our orangutans is very sick and I look after him. Thats no good, Blake said. Sarah stared out the window, enjoying the streetscape of historic buildings. But when the taxi turned down another street lined with mansions and glitzy shops, Sarah frowned. Her geography of London wasnt good, but she was sure they were nowhere near their hotel. The taxi pulled over. One Hyde Park, the cabby announced. Sarah looked up and down the street. Tourists, office workers and fashionistas packed the pavement. The tourists stood out in their sports shoes and sensible clothes, many of them laden with the famous green-and-gold Harrods shopping bags. The building in front of them sported sparkling chrome and glass, not one hundred years of city grime and poorly painted graffiti. This isnt our hotel, she said. She didnt leave her seat. Disquiet infiltrated her bloodstream. This is my place. Come in for a minute. The views incredible. Right over Hyde Park, Blake said, opening the door and stepping out onto the footpath. We need to keep going. I think itd be best if you came up. To a child, his tone sounded like a regular invitation. To Sarah, his voice had a foreboding undercurrent. A tingle of fear edged into her heart. Really, Blake, we cant be late for the airport, she said, straining to keep her voice even. No, come up. Blake pinned her with a look that said lack of cooperation was not an option. What harm could come of a quick visit? She was reading too much into it. After all, what could he do? Probably just wanted to show off his fancy apartment. Only for a few minutes. A uniformed man dressed in a top hat and smart red jacket opened the door with a black-leathergloved hand. Good afternoon, Mr Huntington-Fiennes. The doorman nodded and smiled.

Afternoon, George. They walked through into the ritzy marble lobby. The vast space shimmered with a richness more startling than some of the royal buildings in Brunei. Thousands of leaf-shaped lights glittered above. Two highly polished steel sculptures stood to the left. They walked to the lifts on the lush oystercoloured carpet. Spring flowers burst from dozens of vases dotted on occasional tables placed about the entrance. The space intimidated as much as it impressed. Wow. Daniel turned around and around, marvelling at the opulence. This is amazing. And it was, but the lavishness only highlighted once again the gulf that existed between them. Sarah hoped they didnt run into anyone whod look her up and down with that what-the-hell-are-you-doinghere stare. Blake ushered them to the lifts. He stepped up to a panel on the wall and held still. What are you doing? Sarah asked. Security. The lifts work on iris recognition. Sarah felt like she had a bit part in a sci-fi movie. Blake hit the button for the penthouse. Did this mean she couldnt work the lifts if she wanted to leave? Sarah slid her damp palms down her jeans. The doors closed. She felt trapped. Shed had the same sense when theyd walked through the room at The Tower in which Anne Boleyn had been kept prisoner before her execution. The lift flew up through the floors. Cool! Daniel exclaimed, oblivious to the tension permeating the small space. The lift travels at twenty-two miles per hour, Blake said. The lift opened and Blake led them through double doors into the top-floor apartment. In the entrance hall, soft beige walls, chrome highlights and down lights combined to create understated elegance. A modern brass sculpture of two finely featured faces kissing stood backlit at the end of the room. Through another doorway and Sarah entered a room that could only be described as stunning. Through three glass walls the afternoon sun gilded everything with its golden embrace. Fine cream leather sofas, covered in muted honey, olive and ambertoned cushions framed a solid-marble coffee table. The lush trees and gardens of Hyde Park and the sparkle of the Serpentine spread out before her in a verdant oasis all the way to the historic buildings of Knightsbridge. The chandelier spread across the ceiling like a rippling lake of crystal and gold and glitter. She steadied herself against the wall. Even it was finished in richly textured wallpaper. After dining at The Dorchester, shed realised Blake was rich. But standing at the edge of this palatial room, she realised his wealth was beyond anything shed dreamed. She stepped into the space, seduced by its beauty, and stopped. Had this been what Blake had wanted? For them to be

enticed into his world of wealth? If it came to an expensive legal battle, shed lose before the first shot was fired. Daniel ran to the floor-to-ceiling windows and pressed his forehead against the glass. Wow. Careful, darling, Sarah called. Thats bulletproof glass, Blake said. Hell be okay. She threw him at look she wished could inflict actual damage. She hovered by the door. Ive got something to show you, Blake called to Daniel. Shards of alarm pricked Sarahs skin. What on earth could Blake have that could hold the interest of a nine-year-old boy? She followed them down a long hallway. Bold, modern art graced the spotless white walls. Up ahead, Blake opened a side door. This is your bedroom, Blake announced. Wicked. Daniel disappeared from sight. Sarahs heart slammed hard against her ribs. Her legs forgot to function. No. No. No. She shoved past Blake and found herself in a large room decked out with everything a boy would put on a farfetched fantasy Christmas list. Games and toys still wrapped in plastic. A laptop computer. The walls covered in prints of sailing boats and other boys-own adventure images. The room looked as if it had been plucked from an interior design magazine. The room shrank around her. Suffocating. Strangling. She dropped onto the pristine bedspread. Daniel raced around the room, touching everything. He pulled open the cupboard. Along with more games, the space was packed with rows of new clothes, some with the tags still visible. I didnt know Daniels shoe size, so we can shop for them tomorrow, Blake remarked through the jumbled haze. Your rooms next door. Daniel fished around in the cupboard and pulled out a game. Her sons small battered travel bag lay near the back of the wardrobe. Someone had been to their hotel and collected their things? Fear, sharp and scorching, contorted her stomach. Theyd stumbled into a luxury jail. Sarah grabbed Daniels hand. We have to go, darling. She tried to keep the crushing panic from her voice. Mum. He slipped from her grasp. Check out all this stuff. But he looked into her face and read her expression. In the jungle they had subtle safety codes they used around the animals. Shed sent him a red light. Alarm registered on his young face. He followed her quickly to the doorway. Blake barred their exit like a stone sentry. Sarah, why dont you let Daniel enjoy his new room and we can talk in the living room. His tone was light, but his eyes were dark with danger. Sarah raced through her options. What would Blake do if they tried to run? Block them from

leaving? She needed to keep calm. She didnt know how far Blake would go. The lawyers words thudded more ominously than war drums . . . He could keep you in this country indefinitely through a long, expensive custody battle. Mum? All right. Why dont you check out some of the games? she said, covering her fear with a cheery calm. She picked up the closest box. This looks interesting. She turned it over. Star Wars Lego. Lego! Daniel grabbed the box of throwaway coloured plastic and shredded the wrapping. Blake placed his hand on her back and guided her from the room. The touch shed once craved now felt as cold as a policemans handcuffs. Halfway down the hall, she slapped away his hand. Dont you dare touch me. In the enormous living room, she put as much distance between them as the room allowed. There was a time when you couldnt get enough of me, he said, as if he hadnt just enacted a scene from a movie thriller. Kidnapping me and my son is a funny way to try to rekindle the love. Our son. The absolute gravity of those words crashed into her mind. Until that moment, the seriousness of the situation had seemed somewhat abstract. She opened her mouth to hurl a retort. Nothing came. What could she say? Daniel was their son. She sank into a chair. He took a seat across from her. This is how things are going to be, he said. You and Daniel will stay here until we work out what to do next. Thats impossible. Our flight leaves in four hours. Thats irrelevant. Theyre non-refundable tickets. I cant afford to lose that sort of money. Ill cover it, he said. Ive spoken to my lawyer. The British courts take a very dim view of one parent denying access to the other parent. Particularly when one is a foreigner. British courts! Her pulse throbbed an agitated beat at her temples. What had she done bringing Daniel here? Could she lose him altogether? What do you want? She had to ask the question even though she didnt want to hear the answer. To be part of Daniels life. Ive missed out on nine years. I dont plan on missing another day. But we live on the other side of the world. That may have to change. The life-altering statement slipped from his mouth as though hed made some inane comment about Englands shocking weather. She tightened her grip on the arms of the chair. You cant force us to do whatever you want. We

live in Brunei. The Sanctuary cant operate without me. Were running on a shoestring already and youve ripped away our only major funding. I have responsibilities. People depend on me. Let us go home and we can Let me make this clear, Sarah. Blake sat forward in his chair. You lost your right to dictate things the minute you decided you were going to leave this country, with Daniel, and never tell me of his existence. From now on, we do things my way. She was caught like a rat up a posh, art-covered, bulletproof drainpipe. But court? I dont want it to come to that. So, stay here with me and well work out how best to move forward. Move forward? He spoke as though he was dealing with a product launch, not a child. She looked around as if some form of escape might present itself. Nothing. He held every ace, king, queen and jack. She had no choice. Shed have to play along. For now. All right, well stay for the moment. On one condition. Whats that? His tone informed her she had limited terms of negotiation. That we dont say anything to Daniel until we resolve how things will work. Blake didnt say anything, but his expression displayed dissent. Blake, we cant just announce to Daniel that he has a father and that his whole life is about to be turned upside down. Hes a sensitive kid. Hes lived his entire life in the jungle. We have to ease him into this. Please. Mum. Daniel crept into the room. Im hungry. Blake stood. Okay, well do it your way for now, he said in a low voice, then turned towards his son. He beckoned Daniel over. Come on. Lets check out the kitchen. And father led son from the room. Seeing them walk away together so naturally spilled every emotion she possessed into a mess of confusion. It had taken her years to recover from Blakes disappearance and Daniels fatherless status. Shed experienced every level of grief but anger had won in the end. That driving force had seen her through the tough years of bringing up a child as a single parent, her mothers death and running a critically under-funded wildlife sanctuary. But now here he was, demanding all sorts of . . . rights. Staking his claim. Sarah slumped back on the luxurious chair. Exhaustion suffused through her body. Daniels laughter drifted in from the adjacent room. Rock-hard determination took up residence in her heart. She stood and walked towards the kitchen. Of course Blake should play a role in his sons life, but no way would some foreign court make a judgement about Daniel. She had to plan their escape.

Chapter Three
Sarahs breathing sounded louder than a steam train. She listened at the door of her ridiculously large, deluxe bedroom. She heard Blake moving around the apartment. She opened the door a crack and peeped out. She couldnt see anything. She glanced at the bedside clock again. Ten past five almost dawn. Holding herself still, she listened and waited. Ten minutes later, the unmistakeable sound of the front door opening and clicking shut echoed through the quiet apartment. She stepped into the hall and held still. Not a sound. She checked Blakes room, the living room, the media room, the office, the kitchen. Blake had left. Running back to her room, she grabbed her handbag and suitcase. Shed slept in her clothes, not wanting to touch the new set of pyjamas that had been laid out for her. She wanted to be ready to move when the time was right. Leaving her bag in the hall, she ran to Daniels room and shook her son awake. Come on, darling, time to go. Five more minutes, he said, rolling away from her. No, darling, we have a plane to catch. She lifted him into a sitting position and helped him swing his legs over the side of the bed. She didnt know what she was going to do when they reached the airport. Their tickets had expired. But she knew one thing: she must get back to Brunei. She had no bargaining power in Britain, but she was sure Bruneian law afforded them some protection. If necessary, they could flee to Australia for a short time as they both held Australian citizenship. Shed find out the best course of action once theyd escaped. Its still dark, Daniel said, his voice groggy. Makes it more exciting, she said. Get dressed. Ill take our bags to the door. Sarah pulled his small bag from the cupboard, not touching any of the shiny bribes Blake had bought to procure his sons affection. She paused then quickly shoved the Lego in the bag. Daniel had loved that stuff. She hauled the bags to the front door of the dimly lit apartment. She didnt know how to work the security system, but shed call the doorman to help her with her bags and he could effect their breakout. The lift pinged outside the door. A toxic mix of adrenaline, fear and guilt raced through her bloodstream. Her breath stuck like moss to the walls of her lungs. Move. She grabbed her bag and flung Daniels over her shoulder. Two paces from the end of the entrance hall and the safety of the bedroom passage, Daniels bag struck something hard. She twisted. The two-faced metal statue rocked dangerously on the small table. She grabbed at it. The door opened. She lifted her head. The

brass artwork clanged onto the marble floor. An awful cacophony echoed through the apartment. The piece split in two and one of the faces rolled to the front door. She followed its doomed progress until it came to rest under the foot of the tall silhouette in the doorway. Light from the outside hall pinned her like a prison spotlight. Going somewhere? Blakes voice sounded as menacing as a loaded gun, cocked and ready to fire. Sarah couldnt find any words. Nowhere to go. Nothing to say. Blake walked across the floor, his trainers making no sound. He slid her handbag from her shoulder, placed it on the now empty table and rummaged through its contents. What do you . . . she began. He withdrew two passports. Her stomach plummeted. Her eyes swelled painfully. He flicked through her tickets to freedom and dropped one into her bag and pocketed the other. Youre welcome to leave, but dont think for one second youll be taking my son with you. He walked past her into the living room. And get yourself a lawyer. Youre going to need one.

I dont want Daniel playing computer games all day. Sarah couldnt believe she was here again, in the Hunt-F Tech conference room and now virtually Blakes prisoner. Blake had insisted they accompany him to work. He might have Daniels passport, but he didnt trust her not to abscond with Daniel and hide somewhere in the UK. As if she could anyway. Her funds would probably last little more than a week. Were going to be here for most of the day. Ill arrange for some books to be delivered. You dont object to reading, do you? Blake asked. He flicked through a menu that had appeared on the enormous television screen. Its Saturday, Sarah said. You work twenty-four-seven in this game. A series of computer graphics appeared on the screen. She understood crushing work hours. She worked from the moment the sun rose until it set each day. Hard manual labour, but at least it was outside in a healthy environment, not cooped up in some city office. Shame you dont dedicate those hours to something more worthwhile. Okay, so she didnt really understand the extent of Blakes business, but being held a prisoner hadnt put her in the best of moods. Blake placed the TV controller on the table. Do you have any idea what we actually do here? Produce a whole lot of throwaway technology? Daniel burst into the room. Mum, you wont believe the toilets here. They flush as soon as you

stand up and therere taps on the basins that you dont have to touch. You hold your hands underneath and the water comes on. He hurled his small body into one the chairs, laughing. Took me ages to work it out. Daniel grabbed the console from the table. Is this a game? he asked, pressing every button and flicking the control back and forth. Yes and youll be the first kid on the planet to play it, Blake said, gently retrieving the controller. Daniel stared into Blakes face as if hed turned into Santa Claus. No way? A lump as big as Santas sack lodged in Sarahs throat. Hell, was she jealous? Yes, jealous. Jealous of the ease with which Blake generated wonder and enthusiasm in her son. Yes way, Blake said. He showed Daniel how to manipulate the controller. The games still being tested. I want you to play and let me know what you think. So if I find something wrong, you might change it. There was an excited quiver in his voice. Absolutely, Blake confirmed. This is so cool, Daniel said, pulling his chair a little closer to the screen. Blake spent the next five minutes showing Daniel how to play. Sarah didnt have the heart to protest and had to grudgingly accept that it was probably quite educational. She wished Blake would stop pleasantly surprising her. She had to remember hed just taken away her liberty. So, Daniel, are you going to be okay for a while? I want to show your mother something. Sure, Daniel said, unable to tear his eyes from the screen. Already he was entranced. Sarah followed Blake from the room with metaphorical murder on her mind. Blake pulled the door closed behind her. What? she demanded. Without a word, he took her hand. She tried to shake him loose but he held firm. Come with me, he said. Blake led her down one floor and through a series of doors he opened with thumbprint security. Each time, he held open the door for her and he took her hand again. She stopped protesting after the first two doors. She didnt want to admit it, but Blake holding her hand wasnt horrible. It had been so long since shed held hands with anyone other than Daniel. It was ridiculous that Blakes simple touch had ignited all her senses. A sign announced they had entered the education division. Off to the left, shelving towered above her, with row upon row of DVDs. Our education department is one of the biggest divisions in the company, he said. We sponsor a hundred of the most disadvantaged schools and provide them with computer software. There he was doing good works again. She didnt want to know about all the great stuff he did. It

made it harder to keep him where she wanted him, in the you-could-steal-my-child box. Grooming kids to become future Hunt-F Technology consumers. Blake fixed her with a look so intense she felt surprised at not being burnt. Being computerliterate is essential for all kids these days. Any kid thats not technology savvy will be left behind, he said. He walked to the wall of DVDs. Thats not something I influence, thats reality. Are you implying that Daniel is behind in some way? Anger dropped more heavily into her voice than she intended. No, not behind, Blake said. Exactly. Daniel would be ahead if anything. Shed diligently kept Daniel up-to-date with his schooling. She received a special homeschooling program from Australia every six months. Very behind, Blake said. White-hot fury burned down her throat. How dare you? That game I gave him was designed for five-year-olds and he didnt even know where to start. He may not know much about computers, but he knows about life. Real life. Sarah stalked to the other end of the DVD shelf so she could put her back to him and ignore the disturbing niggle hed kicked off in her brain. Im sure you do a fine job as a mother, but dont you want Daniel to have options? Options that a proper education can give him. She felt him come up behind her. Surely you dont want him to work at the Sanctuary his whole life. And whats wrong with that? Its been good enough for me. She hammered out the first sentence, but her voice backslid on the second. So it wasnt her ideal life, but it was important, worthwhile. The work she did was more essential than one individuals happiness. It supported so many. But Daniel, when he was old enough, could be whatever he wanted. Somehow, shed make sure he could live his dreams. Has it? The gentleness of his voice had her throwing up defences. When I met you, you were full of dreams of travelling the world, photographing and writing about nature . . . discovering and documenting the wonders of the world. What happened? Her breath tripped and tumbled down her throat. She held her fingertips to her temples. Stop. Stop. Stop. Every word peeled off part of the protective story shed given herself. Her work was vital in saving a species from extinction. Her work kept a whole community alive. Very few people achieved their dream life. If she didnt carry on her mothers pioneering work, who would? Shed promised . . . I do good work, she whispered. And so do I. Blake pulled a disc from the shelf and placed it in her hand.

We export educational programs all over the world. This is an education package we developed for the Australian School of the Air. Sarah took the disc and quickly scanned the back blurb. It sounded impressive. I suppose I want to know about Daniels schooling. She shoved the DVD back into place with such force the plastic cover cracked. You cant barge into our lives and think you can take over. Barge? Blake took her around the waist and pulled her close. A flush of heat raced up her chest. Sarah, I thought about you every day since you disappeared from my life. His body moulded with her own with such perfection, she couldnt fight him. God, she wanted to believe him. But they were words. Just words. She placed her palms on his chest and pushed. Just words in a sea of inaction. That was a lifetime ago. Things can never be like that again. Why not? he said, reaching for her again. She stepped away and walked to the door. We live and work on the other side of the world. She pointed in the direction she thought Brunei might lie. And you broke my heart . She couldnt risk that again. She couldnt risk Daniels happiness on this man she barely knew. The men in her life always left. She pulled on the door handle, but a sea of touch-screen technology prevented her escape. She pulled again and again at the door. Humiliation, hot and obvious, flushed her cheeks. Blake walked slowly to her side. He reached across her, his arm brushing her breast. A tingle washed all the way to her toes. He hit a series of buttons on the screen embedded in the wall. Click. See, he said, stepping back and holding open the door. Everyone needs a basic level of technological understanding to operate in this world. Your world. She held her head aloft and walked past him into the corridor. Blake. A man in his early thirties hurried towards them. He looked like a stereotypical computer geek. All glasses, ruffled clothes and an intense but pleasant face. Theres an issue . . . He glanced at Sarah. We need you up on twelve. Sarah didnt miss the anxiety etched around the mans eyes. Thanks, Tom, said Blake. Ill be there in five. Tom walked briskly back the way hed come. Sorry, business calls. Blake led her to the lift. Ill have some magazines, books and snacks delivered to the boardroom. Hopefully, I can take you out for lunch. You plan to keep us locked up all day? You havent given me much choice.

What if I promised not to run again? The lift opened. He stood back to let her enter, then followed. He waited until the doors closed and pinned her with a look filled with disappointment. You lied about staying at the Imperial Hotel in Brunei all those years ago. You lied by omission when you failed to mention I had a son. The lift doors opened and he walked out. She followed him, wanting to explain but coming up short. The steel doors slid shut like a guillotine behind her, as though confirming the magnitude of her guilt. And this morning, you tried to disappear to the other side of the world, taking my son with you. He walked her to the door of the boardroom, where Daniel sat, still engrossed in his game. Its going to take more than a few words to ever trust you again. In fact, the three words that spring to mind are deceitful, dishonest and deceptive. The words slid like knives across her heart. He left her standing there, shattered by the callousness of his onslaught.

An hour later, after his meeting with Tom, Blake sat back in his office. He hammered his pen on his desk. One of the manufacturing plants had failed its quality-assurance test. There was still time to increase their orders from their other contract factories, but it would mean some orders arriving late. He flung his pen across his desk and paced in front of his floor-to-ceiling windows. His prowling brought no relief. The production timeline was tight and any deviation would mean two things. One, they wouldnt hit their global launch date and two, it gave the competition more time to discover what they had planned. And what they had planned would be the biggest thing to hit the games industry this decade. He stared across the vista of Londons Tech City. Hed been one of the first to invest in the area as it had developed into one of Europes biggest technology clusters. Some of the top names in technology were his neighbours: Google, Facebook, Amazon, Intel. Hunt-Fs new game, codenamed Everest, would catapult his company from a mid-tier player to a global computer-game leader. Soon Hunt-F Techs brand would be synonymous with leading-edge technology. Linda appeared at the door. Henrys here to see you, she said. Send him in. His private investigator walked into the room, closing the door behind him. Henry, Blake said, indicating the seat across his desk. Henry was dressed in his usual uniform of nondescript but smart clothes. He never drew attention to himself and never looked out of place. He had an uncanny skill of fitting in anywhere. A

chameleon. He was the best investigator in the city. That was why he worked exclusively for Hunt-F Tech. He was loyal, he was discreet and he was efficient. Whats up? Henry asked. Id have called if we had a leak. I need something else, Blake said. Henry sat forward. Lets hear it. I discovered yesterday I have a son. Hes nine. His names Daniel Walker. He kept his voice calm and even, but his insides twisted. Telling Henry made it suddenly seem much more real. Henry nodded, but beyond that, didnt react. Nothing rattled Henry. Hes the result of a one-night stand I had in Brunei when my father and I worked on that internet project in early 2000. Two parts of the sentence seriously stretched the truth. It definitely hadnt been a one-night stand; Sarah had been unlike any other woman. As for working, well, hed basically spent the entire time by the pool pursuing Sarah. While his father finalised the internet deal, Blake had acted every inch the spoilt rich kid out for a good time. Theyre here now. In the boardroom. His mother, Sarah, tried to sneak out of the country with Daniel this morning. He clenched his fists under the desk then slowly released them. Every discussion about Daniel brought up unwelcome and complicated feelings. Feelings that brought up too many issues he wanted to keep buried. I want a court ruling to keep him here. Henry pulled a notebook from his top pocket. Tell me everything you know. Right. Where would he start? What did he really know about Sarah? About Daniel? Sarah runs the Hope Orangutan Sanctuary in Brunei, and has done since her mother died. I believe its an hour or so from the capital, near the south-east border with Borneo. Henry asked a few questions. Blake told him what he knew, which wasnt much. The facts he had about Sarahs life, his sons life, wouldnt fill a post-it note. If she gets him back to Brunei, things will be much trickier with regard to custody, Henry pointed out. I figured as much. She wont be going anywhere in the immediate future. Blake rubbed his fingers over his left temple. Go to Brunei and find out everything you can thatd help in a custody battle, and get me the best family lawyer in the country. Have him call me this afternoon. Henry stood. No problem. Blake walked the investigator to the lifts, making sure Henry got a good look at Sarah and Daniel on his way past the boardroom. Obviously, she cant know, Blake said, holding the lift doors. An uncomfortable sensation of guilt nudged his conscience, but he pushed it aside. Hed have worked with Sarah to move forward on the Daniel issue, but shed erased any possibility of cooperation with her absconding stunt. No, now shed be treated like any other competitor ruthlessly.

There wont be a trace, Henry said. Ill have a report in, he paused, a week. Excellent. Blake left his investigator and made his way down to the boardroom. Sarahs voice floated out the open door. . . . So well have to stay in London a little longer. Hopefully, Ill have the ticket problems all sorted in a few days. I dont mind if we stay longer, Daniel said. Blake knew it was probably the excitement of London, but hearing those words flow from his sons mouth quickened his pulse. Daniel wanted to stay. In Blakes house. With him. I know, darling, Sarah continued, but Im worried about the Sanctuary. Theyre two hands down without us. You know how sick Sultan is. Sultan. Who the hell is Sultan? Blake looked through the glass into the room. Daniel sat close to his mother. Dont worry, Mum, itll be okay. Well work it out. We always do. Blake walked back to his office. That monkey centre had a hold over both of them; one he was determined to break.

Daniels asleep. Sarah walked into Blakes penthouse living room. Blake sat casually on the couch, work papers in hand. Excellent. Blake put aside the papers and stood. Damn. The man could rock a T-shirt and jeans better than James Dean. Her eyes swept quickly over every inch of his body. She remembered when theyd been skin to skin. She diverted her attention to the night-time view of London to distract herself from her X-rated thoughts. Dancing lights surrounded the dark void of Hyde Park. The traffic glowed like a luminous snake down the wide streets. The thick glass prevented any urban sounds from invading the space. So different to home, where the nights were so black and the jungle noises wild. Drink? Blake asked, crossing to the well-stocked bar. No thanks, she said, keeping her eyes on the view and her mind well away from naked nights. The clink of glasses sounded behind her. Blake came over and held out a crystal tumbler. Gin and tonic, if Im not mistaken? He remembered? She took the drink, but the cool glass did nothing to quell the slow luscious burn in her stomach. Being alone with Blake was a complete cookbook of danger. Thanks, she said, not giving him any credit for his impressive memory.

He sipped his drink. She couldnt help breathing deeply of the intoxicating smell of freshly showered man and whisky. I cant keep you locked up in my boardroom while we sort this out, he said. Oh, I dont know. Id give you a gold star in kidnapping. You only have yourself to blame for that. She wanted to argue, but what was the point? She had no money, no power and no way of escape. So? Whats your plan? Turn on the TV and chain us both to the sofa each morning before you leave? Leave milk and cookies just out of our reach to add to our torment? He tilted his head to the side as if to consider her proposal. Infuriating, impossible man. An attractive suggestion, but no. He took her hand and led her to the sofa. I have a proposition for you, he said, sitting down next to her. Sarahs eyes widened. He thought . . . Im not going to sleep with you. Blakes eyebrow arched higher than the Sydney Harbour Bridge. His amused smile turned seductive. What? she demanded. What was it about this man that made her want to periodically kill him? It wasnt going to be that sort of proposition, but Id happily consider sex as part of the deal. Heat roared like a bonfire into her cheeks. Oh, hell. Her errant thoughts had put sex front and centre and it wasnt even on his agenda. She wanted to storm off, get away from this maddening man. Instead, she glanced at the array of crystal tumblers within nice, easy reach. Smashing every one at his feet would surely wipe away that smug expression. Then those pretty porcelain lamps that were probably worth as much as the crown jewels. Smash. Smash. Smash. He followed her gaze. Be my guest, he said. Break them all if it makes you feel better. She crushed her lips together. She couldnt even imagine her own dramatic acts without him being one step ahead. She took a seat on the sofa opposite him. Increasing the distance between them helped her equilibrium. Whats your proposition? she demanded. Fifty thousand pounds for the Sanctuary and you stay in the UK for the next three months, Blake said. She stole a sharp, shallow breath. Shed planned to hold her face in a mask of indifference to any proposition hed dealt, but she knew her expression betrayed her shock. Fifty thousand pounds! Half the Sanctuarys annual budget. But there are conditions, he added. She narrowed her eyes. Of course there were conditions.

Im sure theyre very reasonable, she said, heaping on the cynicism. Youll receive the money in instalments and you and Daniel will live with me. She opened her mouth to object. He held up a hand. Wait, Im not finished. He paused to ensure he still had her attention. Daniel will go to school with my nephew, Tom, and if theres even a hint that youre planning to leave, you can expect the full force of the law. She held her body rigid to stop herself from doing something foolish. Finished? she asked, her voice gritty. Ill wait until I hear a yes from you. She wanted to fight, to scream, to crumble his tower of supremacy, but with what? She was in no position of power. She had to negotiate. Negotiate to get all she could. I have some conditions of my own. He threw her an Im-listening-but-dont-expect-anything look. Youre not in a position to bargain. She lifted her drink to give herself time to think. She needed to work this to her advantage. If she could solve the Sanctuarys funding problems then that would eliminate one of his points of leverage. The income from the Trust your father established ten years ago is the reason were in so much trouble now. And how do you figure that? If we hadnt had the guarantee of those funds each month wed have been forced to develop fundraising experience . . . skills. After your cash injections gone, well have no money, no skills and well be in the same position were in now. He laughed. And youre laying your ineptitude at my door? Ineptitude. That stung. She grazed her teeth across her lip to stop a sharp retort. Yes. Your money lulled us into a false sense of security. She knew this audacious argument was more ridiculous than sensible, but it was the only thing she could think of. After three months Ill be back where I started. No sustainable income for the Sanctuary. And how can I trust that the money will come? You could cut and run like you did last time. We didnt cut and run. The Trust was established for a ten-year term. The term was up. Hang on . . . A logical progression of events ran through her mind and ended with a worrying scenario. You want the Sanctuary to fail. If it fails, you think theres nothing to keep us in Brunei. She shifted forward in her chair. But youre wrong. Ill start from scratch and build it again. Do you really think Id destroy a valuable animal-rescue project to get what I want? The thing is, Blake, I dont know. I dont know what youre capable of. But I need to develop a sustainable funding stream for the Sanctuary, and youre going to help me.

Really? Yes. If Im going to be stuck here for three months, you can . . . help me with a business plan. Ill come to work with you every day and you can hook me up with your marketing and financial experts. And . . . Her mind raced. What did she really want? Time. Time to think. Time to plan. Time to get to know the man she was dealing with. Shed never been good at making quick decisions and years of routine in the jungle had only further dulled that skill. And, we dont tell Daniel about you until the Sanctuarys financial position is safe. He knows all about the trouble were in and landing a missing father on him will be too much. Done. He gripped her hand and shook on the deal. But . . . Wait . . . She hadnt even had a chance to challenge him about Daniels schooling. We need to nut out the details. I dont know anything about this school. She wasnt going to let Blake choose a school without her input. Daniels input. Its one of the best in the country. It might not be right for Daniel. Ive already enrolled him. He starts at the end of the summer holidays. Ive arranged for you and Daniel to have a tour next week. She landed her drink on the table with a crash and flew to her feet. How dare you think you can have a say in Daniels education? If she had weak arteries, they would have exploded. This is where you seem to be having some difficulty, Sarah. Her adversary eased himself from the sofa, her height advantage lost in a moment. I have equal say in what happens in Daniels life from this point on. If you fight me, you might find you wont even have half. The room dimmed a fraction. Her vision faltered. You need to remember that I have every right to walk into Daniels room right now and tell him who I am, Blake said. But I can see you need time, so Im giving it to you. I suggest you take the deal, he said, his voice holding a deadly-sharp edge. The other option is court and from what my lawyers outlined, you wont want to leave Daniels fate in the hands of this countrys legal system. A ripple of despair washed over her skin. The idea of dragging Daniel through a lengthy court battle . . . the lawyers . . . the risk of a poor outcome . . . losing him. Her chest shrank, driving the air from her lungs. Ill speak to you in the morning when I hope youve acquired some level of rationality. He walked from the room, leaving her alone, surrounded with sumptuous luxury. She slumped back onto the smooth leather and stared at the ridiculous chandelier. It was as though Blake had the lights of LA plastered across his ceiling. She rubbed her eyes with her palms, but the action channelled exhaustion to her very core. Her

heart pumped out a desolate refrain. Youre trapped. Youre trapped. Youre trapped. The soft glow and surrounding extravagance pressed in. Shed have to take the deal. Any other course of action could end in catastrophe. But would dealing direct with Blake be any easier? She was outgunned, out of her depth and completely outmanoeuvred.

Chapter Four
The rich aroma of maple syrup and something delicious and buttery drew Sarah to the kitchen. The room was bigger than her entire house. She counted two cookers, three sinks and a fridge at least two metres wide. The centre of the fridge panel featured an elaborate coffee maker and she could swear the fridge handles were made of brass. Blake and Daniel sat next to each other at a hand-carved wooden table, heads together. Each sat in front of a huge plate of half-eaten pancakes. Blakes upper body was covered only by a singlet, putting his muscled shoulders and arms on scintillating display. Her heart gave a little jolt and she drew in a quick breath. She hovered by the door, drinking in his powerful physique. Itd be much easier to deal with Blake if his handsome face and hot body didnt mess so much with her ability to think with anything that resembled clarity. Daniel drew something on a sheet of paper. Blake appeared transfixed. He sat back and laughed. Thats fantastic, Blake said. He spotted Sarah. She walked quickly into the room, pretending shed only just arrived. Had he caught her staring? Daniel can really draw. He held up the paper. Daniel had sketched a couple of orangutans throwing fruit at each other. I know, she said, walking to the fridge to find something for breakfast. I bought him a how-todraw book. May I? she asked before opening the door. Knock yourself out, Blake said, with a cocky little smile on his face. The fridge was empty except for a couple of bottles of wine, a block of blue cheese and a half-litre of milk. She turned her questioning gaze on Blake. Can I get you some breakfast? he asked, getting up from the table. Pancakes, cooked breakfast, toast? Blake offering to cook? Now that was a surprise. This must be his way of apologising. But what was going to be more interesting was how he planned to make anything edible out of thin air. She took a seat next to Daniel and gave him a hug. Im impressed with the pancakes, she said. Shed enjoy watching the great man of business crack a few eggs. Coming right up. Blake picked up the phone mounted to the wall and dialled. Morning again, Hugh. Well take another round of pancakes. Great. Thanks. He dropped the phone back in place as though ringing up to have breakfast delivered was what every person on the planet did every day. He must have caught her look of disbelief.

What? he asked. You order in breakfast? He sat and looked at her as though he was dealing with a five-year-old stuck on one plus one. Times money. I outsource everything thats not vital to my work. If you apply yourself to whats most critical, youll always succeed. For example, the Sanctuary will close without enough money. You should have outsourced some of your workload to ensure fundraising was a priority. She pressed her lips together. She wasnt going to react. Overnight, shed mulled over Blakes deal and realised shed been wedged into a corner. She needed the money. Blake had Daniels passport. She wasnt going anywhere, so she might as well work the situation to her advantage. For the moment. Youre absolutely right, she said. And thats exactly what youre going to help me do for the next few months. Blake tilted his head to the side and sported a whats-your-game expression. I dont know if I trust this new conciliatory Sarah. Youve got me all suspicious. Just planning to learn from the master. Now, can I use your phone? Be my guest. Im calling the Sanctuary. Why dont you Skype instead? Blake asked. Skype? Blakes eyes rolled like a penny circling a drain. Forget it. Use the phone in the office. Thanks. Sarah walked into Blakes generously proportioned office. She took a seat in the fine leather chair behind the superbly restored Edwardian antique desk. She ran her hand over the smooth wood, shaking her head at the stark contrast of their lives. She did all her paperwork on her shabby pine dining-room table. She looked about for the phone. A sleek, black handset stood in an elaborate-looking phone station. It took her a few minutes to establish how it worked. She checked her watch. It was late in Brunei, but Tino would be doing the late-night check so hed be sure to hear the phone. She dialled and waited. Hope Orangutan Sanctuary, Tino speaking. Hearing the Sanctuarys operations managers voice made her stomach ache for home. At the Sanctuary, Tino was always able to put her at ease no matter what disaster they faced. So calm. So capable. So dedicated. Hed been with the organisation for thirty years and was one of the worlds top orangutan experts. Hi, Tino. Its Sarah. She could picture him clearly, standing amid the chaos of her small living room. Her home was connected with the only phone at the Sanctuary. Theyd rigged up a loudspeaker so the ring could be heard across the compound.

Have you landed? Tino sounded confused. We didnt expect you until tomorrow. Ah, theres been a slight change of plan. Did you get the funding worked out? The hope in his voice reinforced the importance of her London mission. Yes, but . . . She should have thought more about how this conversation would go before shed dialled. I have to work for it. What? Ive secured fifty-eight thousand pounds . . . Tino gasped then whistled down the phone. Thats fantastic. What sort of work did you have to do for that? Scepticism infused his tone. Theyd both had experience with hollow funding promises. I havent done it yet, but it means I have to stay in the UK for the next three months. Im being connected with some pretty heavy marketing and finance hitters. You stay right there. If this is what you can achieve in a few days, imagine how much money you could raise in three months. Well, its not really that simple. Tell me no more and get back to work. Tino trusted very few people, but she was one of them. Tino had watched almost every move shed made since shed been a kid. But how will you cope without us? she asked. We can manage without you for a few months. In fact, if you can continue to bring in money like that, perhaps you should stay for even longer. Sarah didnt know how to feel; relieved that the Sanctuary continued without issue, or hurt that everything could run without her so effortlessly. But youll be two hands down. She knew it was childish, but she wanted them to be a little bit desperate for her to return. No, were fine. A couple of volunteers are arriving next week, so were all good. What about Sultan? Is he better? Much. Everythings fine. She was being an idiot. That operations continued without a hitch while she was gone was of course ideal. Hows London? Tino asked. Crowded. Tino laughed. Enjoy it. Remember how much you wanted to travel? Thats all you used to talk about when you were young. Gosh. Tino was the second person in two days whod reminded her of her lofty dreams. She slid

her fingers across her forehead. Shed forgotten how shed talked endlessly about travelling the world, photographing and reporting on important environmental issues. How shed dreamed of working for National Geographic. Her internship with the Gazette would have been the first step. That was a long time ago. Its never too late, you know. Yes, it is. The Sanctuary. Its enormous workload. Never enough funding or resources. And of course, Daniel. Life had danced all over her dreams. Tino was the most positive person she knew. He believed that in the end things always worked out for the best. With the amount of hardship theyd been through together keeping the Sanctuary running since her mother had died, she was always amazed at how he managed to stay upbeat. Anyway, she said, dismissing the fantastic ideas of her youth. Id better go. Look after yourself. We all miss you and Daniel. Hug him for me. I will. Bye. She hung up. What had she wanted? For Tino to beg her to come home? That hed say the Sanctuary would fall apart without her? She stared out at the view and for a moment the world wobbled. If she wasnt urgently needed at the Sanctuary, where did she fit? Mum, Daniel called. Your pancakes are here. She pushed back the chair and walked to the door. Of course there was always one certainty. She was Daniels mother and that would never change.

Sarah held Daniels hand as they walked through the foyer of Blakes apartment building. The pale English summer reflected through the translucent walls. At least sunshine could penetrate the bulletproof glass. Daniel pulled away to marvel at a sculpture of two dancing cranes standing in their own crystal pond. The cars here, Blake said, leading them out of the complex. A valet climbed from a sleek black luxury four-wheel drive. Whoa. Is that your car? Daniel cooed. Thats awesome. Thanks, buddy. I like it, Blake said. He took the keys from the valet and slid a five-pound note into the mans hand. Sarah folded her arms across her chest. Nice to see youre taking CO2 emissions seriously. As Im hoping to enjoy my one day off, Ill let that one slide, Blake replied. The valet loaded the most enormous Harrods food hamper into the back of the car. I thought you said your sister was cooking lunch, Sarah said, reaching for the door handle. The

valet got there first and opened the door with a flourish. Blake shooed him aside, took her hand and helped her into her seat. I always bring something. Something, Sarah scoffed. That would last a week at my house. Daniel clambered into the back seat. The chocolates wouldnt, Daniel exclaimed, staring at the bounty behind him. Blake dug into the basket and fished out a couple of chocolate bonbons wrapped in gold foil. Daniels conspiratorial grin struck Sarahs heart with a combination of happiness and fear. She looked away, unable to face what was unfolding before her eyes . . . a special bond between father and son. The whole situation left her feeling cold with confusion. How could this ever work? At least two oceans and a couple of fairly sizable seas lay between their two countries. Blake climbed behind the wheel and pulled the car into the chaos of London traffic. So, where does you sister live? Sarah asked. Richmond, Blake said, weaving expertly through the maze of vehicles. You might even like it there. Maybe, she muttered. London has loads to offer. Especially if you know where to look. Name three things that Id like about this place, she challenged. Computers, no insects and not to have to work in the mud, Daniel piped up from the back. Blake lobbed her a meaningful look. She didnt have to be a mind-reader to guess his thoughts. He deserves better. She wanted to defend herself, but not in front of Daniel. Three things, Blake said, his eyes steady on the traffic. Ill help you. Museums, art galleries and the theatre. Finished amusing yourself? she asked. History, architecture and some of the best restaurants in the world. Blake indicated and changed lanes. But those things dont outweigh the negatives. Traffic, pollution, crowds, and from what I understand the cost of living here is astronomical. Everywhere has a downside. The man had an answer for everything. Time to change the subject. So, your sister . . . Jemma. She didnt mind us crashing your family lunch? Mind? The smile creeping across Blakes face clearly held a lot of meaning. Meaning she didnt know quite how to interpret. It took them nearly an hour to travel to the borough of Richmond. Blake pulled through a series of roundabouts and suddenly they were surrounded by lush green parkland. Look, Daniel exclaimed, pushing his face up against the glass. Deer. Lots of them.

A herd of about twenty deer grazed a few metres from the car. Blake slowed and lowered the windows. The car filled with the sound of birds and the smell of summer. The deer have been here since the sixteenth century, he said. Richmond Park was originally a hunting park. Henry VIII introduced them. Therere about six hundred here. They travelled in silence through miles and miles of delightful English parkland. Sarah couldnt deny it was beautiful. Not jungle beautiful, but this parkland possessed a magical quality. Those trees look really old, Daniel said. Theyre oak trees, Blake said. Some have been here since the first days of the park. This place hasnt changed much in centuries. You did this on purpose, Sarah said. What on earth do you mean? Blake answered, his voice infused with false innocence. All this, she said, gesturing at the beauty surrounding them. You wanted to prove a point. So its a bit out of our way. But I knew youd like it. He shifted down a gear so they could cruise slowly past a stand of ancient oaks. You know, he added in a low voice. It might surprise you that my mission in life is not to make you unhappy. In fact, if you let me, my intentions are quite the opposite. Sarah held a finger to her mouth to silently shush him and shook her head. Not now, she mouthed, checking back to see if Daniel was listening. Fortunately, he was engrossed in the scenery. I dont think I can wait. The short sentence possessed a sharp edge. We made a deal, she whispered. Sarah stared out of her window to end the conversation. She couldnt yet face her new reality. Blake was back and he wanted Daniel. She couldnt fathom how the puzzle of their lives would be solved. The car picked up speed. Jemma lives around the corner. Blakes voice had lost its tour-guide quality. Would he honour his agreement to keep his paternity a secret? Would Sarah ever be ready to drop that bombshell?

Blake pulled up in front of a stunning historic home. Sarah swept her gaze over the magnificent example of British architecture. Over twenty faithfully restored Georgian windows gleamed in the late-morning sun. A chorus of eager faces appeared at one of them. Her seatbelt seemed to tighten around her chest. I thought . . . Isnt it just your sisters family here?

No. The whole family is, except Mum. Shes away. My three little sisters are here with their kids. Blake did a quick calculation. Twenty-two in total. I didnt mention that? No. Sarah pressed back into the protective cocoon of the cars leather seat. I did. I said family lunch. But . . . Too many people. Too many strangers. Rich strangers. Old sensitivities nipped at her insides. She glanced down at her outfit. She wore a dazzling floral summer dress from the selection hanging in her wardrobe. Shed felt pretty and confident when theyd left Blakes apartment, but now . . . Her door opened. Come on, Blake said, holding out his hand. They dont bite. The front door of the house opened, and a woman in her mid-thirties strolled towards Blake. She wore white cotton capri trousers and a navy striped top teamed with simple ballet flats but looked chic enough for the Champs-lyses. A huge smile lit her pretty face, highlighting her stunning blue eyes against her perfect blonde hair. Blakey, she exclaimed. Sarah raised an Ive-got-one-over-you-now eyebrow. Blakey? she teased. Dont even think about it, he murmured. Jemma pulled Blake into a bear hug. An unexpected jolt of loneliness struck Sarah deep in her belly. She shuffled her feet. She had no relatives besides Daniel. Shed always accepted it was Daniel and her against the world. She and her mother had been the same. Loneliness had been her constant companion growing up, but shed trained herself to enjoy her own company. She pulled Daniel to her side for protection. Sarah, this is my older sister, Jemma. Sarah. So lovely to meet you. Jemma pulled her into a tight embrace. A genuine hug that said youre welcome, youre wanted and something else altogether confusing. It was a hug for a long-lost and cherished friend, not an interloper. When they pulled apart, Sarah didnt know what to say or where to look. It was as though Jemma had touched a needy part of her soul with her open arms of friendship. And this must be Daniel. Jemma hesitated a microsecond before bestowing the same affectionate welcome upon him. Sarah flashed Blake a surreptitious frown. Come on in, Jemma said, ushering them up the stone stairs. She glanced back at Daniel, then led them through a hall. You didnt say anything? Sarah hissed to Blake. Not a word.

Jemma showed them into a living room, which could have featured in a Jane Austen novel. Magnificent antiques dotted the room. Sumptuous fabrics covered the lounge suite and chairs, and lavish drapes framed the windows. Nearly every seat was occupied and every pair of eyes focused straight at Sarah. She held her ground, but only due to her years of training with large wild animals. Blakey. A chorus of womens voices sailed around the room. Three young women bombarded him with hugs. Each eyed Sarah and Daniel expectantly and welcomed them warmly. Sarah noticed they all sent Blake questioning expressions, which Blake diligently ignored. Blake introduced them to the rest of the family, a seemingly endless supply of in-laws, nieces and nephews. But wheres Lucy? Blake asked. Sarah had watched a little girl, no more than three, creep up to Blake and curl around his leg like a baby orangutan. There, there! screamed the children, pointing. Where? Where? Blake walked around the room with Lucy clinging to this leg, the little girl giggling hysterically. Sarah watched, stunned. Shed never imagined Blake in a family situation. Hed seemed so one-dimensional: work, work, work. There she is, Blake said, after a minute. He threw Lucy into the air, caught her and gave her a hug before placing back on the floor. Youre funny, Uncle Blakey, the little girl said, running back to her mother. Robert, why dont you take the kids into the backyard for some cricket? Jemma asked. Sure. A boy around Daniels age rushed forward and grabbed Daniels arm. Come on, Ive got a bat signed by Kevin Pietersen. Ill show you later. Cool, Daniel said. Sarah knew Daniel had no idea who Kevin Pietersen was and she watched, amazed, as Daniel skipped out of the door with his ready-made family. She followed. Stay. Sit, Jemma said, guiding her to a chair. Ill keep an eye on them from the kitchen. And Jemma left. One sister thrust champagne into her hand, while another drew her chair up closer. In a matter of seconds, Sarah found herself surrounded by Blakes three younger sisters, who mounted an illdisguised interrogation about her and her relationship with Blake. She shrank as far into the chair as possible, but no amount of wishing could make her disappear. Blake didnt notice her discomfort. His phone buzzed. Ive got to take this, he said. No apology. No are you going to be okay with a crowd of people youve never met. No salvation from the questions that probed so close to her secret. So, youre staying at Blakes apartment? All three sisters leaned in close.

Yes. For a short time, Sarah said, hoping her dismissive tone would throw them off the gossiphungry scent. Hotels in London are so expensive. Ah, could you excuse me for a moment and point me in the direction of the bathroom? The sisters didnt hide their frustration at the interruption to their investigation into Blakes lovelife. It seemed an eternity before one reluctantly answered. Sarah half expected the youngest sister to follow her. Shed been sitting so close, an inch closer and Sarah would have been hosting her on her lap. Sarah closed the bathroom door behind her, leaned back and closed her eyes. She wasnt used to small, enclosed spaces filled with very chatty people. Let alone people who made no secret of wanting to know every intimate detail about her. Damn Blake for leaving her alone like that. He must have known his sisters would pounce. She hid in the bathroom as long as she thought acceptable then tentatively stepped into the hallway. She could hear kitchen sounds coming from down the hall. She tiptoed towards the welcome bouquet of enticing smells. Jemma stood at the sink washing lettuce. She smiled at Sarah when she spotted her. Theyre a bit intense. You can say that again, Sarah said, plonking herself on a bar stool. Five minutes with the Huntington-Fiennes sisters and exhaustion tugged harder than if shed completed a days work during the monsoon. You cant blame them. Blake has never brought a woman over for a family lunch. Sarahs spine jerked straight. Never? The word tumbled out before she could catch it. Jemma flicked the excess water from the lettuce and placed it in a bowl. Never, Jemma said, favouring Sarah with a look that said, want to talk about it? He said you were someone pretty special. It was as though the summers sun had turned its glow directly on Sarahs skin. Her chest flushed warm and her pulse spiked. Blakes hamper sat on the kitchen bench. Do you want me to help you with this? Sarah asked, fumbling with the satin ribbon constraining the bulging gourmet feast. If you can be bothered, Jemma said, laughing, dismissively waving her hand. He does that every time. Brings excessive, expensive gifts. You should see him at Christmas. Its hard enough not to spoil the kids without their uncle indulging them beyond belief. Sarah crinkled her brow. Um, why dont you tell him? Oh, we could never tell him, Jemma said, as if Sarah had uttered something shocking. Why? Sarah had been brought up on a regime of honesty, strict and brutal. Your fathers left, get

used to it. Your favourite orangutan died overnight, we have to bury him. Photographys for dreamers. You had a one-night stand, youre pregnant and youll be a single parent, welcome to the club. Its complicated. Jemma wiped her hands on her apron before pulling a bag of carrots from the fridge. Sarah knew shed stumbled onto something intensely personal. Imagine, sisters protecting the great and mighty Blake Huntington-Fiennes. Sarah waited, wondering if Jemma would provide further insight into Blakes personality. All shed seen so far was a workaholic bully with a propensity for taking hostages. Jemma slid the carrots from their packet and paused. She seemed to make a decision before looking up and meeting Sarahs gaze. Since Dad died, Blake feels responsible for all of us. As you can see, were fine, but since we lost Dad, Blake has been driven to put everything right. For some insane reason he feels responsible. Put things right? Sarah asked. Jemma shrugged in a manner that said, this is tough to explain. As I said, its complicated. Im so sorry about your dads death. Was it long ago? Jemma stopped chopping. Blake hasnt told you? Her tone told Sarah something bad was coming. Very bad. Sarah shook her head slowly. No. She stopped unpacking the hamper to give Jemma her attention. Dad took his own life ten years ago. She said it in a matter-of-fact way, as if any other tone would open her heart and pour out her soul. Sarahs pulse ripped and stumbled. Oh, Jemma, Im so sorry. She knew what to say when someone was lost to cancer, but suicide . . . Why? she blurted out before she could stop the question. God, Im so sorry . . . dont answer that. No, its fine. It sounded like the topic had been deeply analysed. Dad received some poor advice and invested in a number of financial instruments he didnt really understand. The market went bad and so did the company. Within a week, Hunt-F Tech went from one of Britains top technology companies into receivership. We lost everything, including this house. This is our original family home. Oh my God. Such a trite, inadequate response, but was there a suitable way to acknowledge such a tragedy? There were days when I couldnt get out of bed, Jemma said, as if the only way to discuss the topic was in short, factual sentences. Sarah was familiar with that way of speaking. Anything more indepth might scratch at the walls built to lock in the pain. But not Blake, Jemma continued, attacking the carrots. He worked nearly every hour of every day until he saved the company. Two years after we lost the house, Blake bought it back again. My family lives here with Mum. We couldnt leave her here on her own. She loves this house, it holds all

her memories. But . . . Sarah ran a quick calculation. But Blake wouldve been only about twenty-five. Yes. Thats right. He convinced the receivers to let him have six months to turn things around. Jemma opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of wine. He moved into computer games. A couple went global and he single-handedly saved the business. He works like a dog. He wont stop until hes convinced himself hes absolutely safeguarded the business from any future disaster. But . . . But why would Blake feel responsible for your fathers death? Jemma filled two glasses with sauvignon blanc from Bordeaux. Because he believes if he hadnt been so distracted, he couldve saved him. Dads last phone call had been to Blake. Hed cut Dad short as hed just arrived at the airport and was running late for his flight. She handed a glass to Sarah and waited until shed tasted the chilled wine. He was on a flight to Brunei when Dad was found. Icy fingers of dismay trailed down Sarahs spine. The air froze in her lungs. She only just managed to swallow her wine. To Brunei? Had Blake really been trying to find her? Her heart beat a fast tattoo. She tried to process the information. She hadnt believed any of his assertions. Shrieks from the garden filtered through to the kitchen. Sarah walked distractedly to the window, her mind churning. Of course she wasnt the reason for Blakes trip. His company had offices all over the world. But . . . Daniel bowled a ball that sailed wide of the wickets. Theyre having such a good time out there, she said, forcing the conversation into safer territory more suited to an I-just-met-you conversation. Jemma joined her and together they watched the magical summer family scene. Blake stood close to Daniel, demonstrating how to bowl. Daniel mimicked the action with an idolising grin on his young face. I dont know what youve done to my brother, Jemma said, shaking her head and sipping her wine. What do you mean? Sarah hoped Jemma didnt pick up on the eagerness with which the words flew from her lips. We have family lunch once a month and Blake never misses it, Jemma said. But hes never really here. Sarah dragged her eyes from the game to search Jemmas expression. He always has one eye on his phone, Jemma said. Checking texts, watching markets, slipping off to make phone calls. Now look at him. She gestured to the garden. Blake hunched with Daniel behind the wickets, showing him a keepers stance. Daniels never played cricket before. Robert bowled and Daniel caught a tricky catch.

Really? Looks like you have a natural on your hands. A natural at cricket? Where did that come from? Her family was hopeless at sport. Hes got a great teacher, Jemma continued. Blake was cricket captain at secondary school. Sarah felt as though a cricket ball had been shoved down her throat. Stupidly, it hadnt occurred to her that any of Daniels funny little traits could be down to Blakes genes. Do you mind if I go out and watch? Sure. If you could call everyone in five minutes, thatd be great. Sarah drifted out onto the back terrace. Jemmas enormous garden could have featured in a Beatrix Potter book; all lush green lawns and flowerbeds marbled with brilliant summer blooms. A small brook edged the back of the garden and trickled musically. The cricket pitch angled across the middle of the garden. The scent of freshly mown lawn mingled with a light breeze. One of Blakes brothersin-law lifted cooked steaks from a barbecue off to the side of the house. Blake threw Daniel the ball and Daniel bowled like a professional. Robert cracked it, but Blake caught the ball on the full. Father and son whooped like five-year-olds. Blake put his arm around Daniel and mussed his hair. Sarahs heart tore in two in her chest. Every instinct pushed her towards a fight for full custody. She only knew one way . . . the two of them battling . . . always battling. And Blake, well, he lived on the other side of the world and ran a global technology company. Big business. Shed been brought up despising big business. But seeing Daniel threw up questions she never thought shed have to face. She didnt want to face. She rubbed her temples. Mum, check this out, Daniel called. Blake turned and smiled at her. That knowing parental smile. That smile that said everything in one brief communication. Isnt our child great? Isnt our child special? Isnt our child the most precious thing in the world? In that moment it was so wonderful to share Daniel. Share the magic of her child. Their child. Daniel bowled the ball down the pitch. One of Daniels cousins smacked it. Blake missed an easy catch. Thats your fault. Blakes smile was full of mock accusation. Dont blame your weaknesses on me, Sarah called. He jogged to her side. Youre my only weakness, he said, trailing a finger down her arm, his touch sending sparks through her body. A horrible thought struck with the force of a tsunami: was all this attention to lull her into a false sense of security? For her to drop her guard? For him to get close to Daniel, then snatch him away?

She swallowed hard and avoided his eyes. Blake . . . dont . . . She stepped away, feeling her tight control slipping. Lunch, she managed to call. A stampede rushed past her into the house. Daniel followed, keeping pace with Robert. You should come and play next Saturday, Robert said to Daniel. Were a player down. Really? Daniels eyes shone as he disappeared into the house in Roberts wake. Sarah made no move to follow. Coming in? Blake asked. Um. I find your family a little overwhelming. Blake slipped his arm around her shoulders. Dont worry, Ill protect you. She couldnt help it. The warmth and comfort of his arm about her and his body so close dissolved her urge to flee and blasted away any negative thoughts. Would it be so terrible to let Blake into their lives? Or, down the track, would she discover it was her biggest mistake?

Sarah slumped back into the comfort of Blakes luxurious sofa. The evening sun dropped slowly behind the trees of Hyde Park. She rested her head and closed her eyes. What a day. Despite feeling totally overcome by the sheer energy of Blakes extended family, shed enjoyed herself. She survived by remaining a silent observer, just watching the dynamics of the large, happy family. Not Daniel: hed thrown himself into the fray and had clearly loved every minute of it. At the Sanctuary he was such a calm, quiet kid, who spent a lot of time with his own thoughts. Today, hed seemed like a totally different child. She opened her eyes and slid a magazine off the nearby table and flicked through the pages of designer fashions, fabulous homes and fancy gardens. She stopped at a page featuring a family enjoying a picnic, watching a county cricket game. So classically English. Daniel was denied many things other kids took for granted, due to his isolation. But surely their lifestyle gave him so much more. Being outdoors. Enjoying nature. Doing something so meaningful, so valuable. Sorry, Blake said, coming into the room. Daniels certainly taken to cricket. He needed to go over every rule. Sarah smiled but conflicting feelings piled up again. All the eager cricket passion would have nowhere to go once they were back at home. The closest cricket club was hours away. That boys definitely got some natural talent, Blake said, taking a seat next to her. He really hasnt played before?

Never. Sarah sank back into the soft leather. Your familys quite something, she said, in a tone of exaggerated animation. He placed his arm around her shoulders and snuggled her into the heat of his body. He felt so good. Too good for the enemy. Was he the enemy? Im still getting used to the idea of having my own family. Blake brought his face inches from hers. But I think Im getting the hang of it. His tender touch and sweet words messed with her logic. She blinked up at his gorgeous face. This was not a good idea. She placed her palms against his chest and pushed him gently away. Blake, I dont think we should confuse things. Im not confused, he said, leaning towards her again, desire firing in his eyes. You belong here with me. And how exactly do you see that working? she demanded, moving away from him. A flash of irritation crossed his face. As it is now. So you expect us to uproot our lives and live here. What about the Sanctuary? A son needs his father. His lack of reference to her stung. So move to Brunei, she challenged, standing. Dont be ridiculous, he said, matching her movement. Im the CEO of one of Britains biggest companies. She anchored her hands heavily on her hips. So your works more important than mine? Her voice rose in volume and pitch as anger seized her fast and hard. Dont get hysterical, thats not what I meant. The Sanctuary would close without me. Not if you actually had a decent funding model and succession planning in place. She ignored his dig at her business acumen. And what happens when you get sick of playing happy families? He stood and gripped both her hands. I wont. Thats how you feel now and you probably believe it. But that will change, she said. The memory of her father walking out the door was etched on her life like a never-ending nightmare. Wheres this coming from? His voice grated with concern and frustration. Experience, she said. Hot tears threatened to expose her vulnerability. I wouldnt be like your other lovers. She had to stop herself from snorting. She pulled her hands from his grip. Other lovers. What a joke. Not many people wandered into her life and wanted a part of it. Moisture pooled at the edges of her eyes. No way would he see her cry. She rushed from the lounge and shut herself in her room.

Sinking to the bed, she dropped her head in her hands. How could she expose Daniel to that pain . . . the inevitable pain of a father leaving? It had shaped her life and her mothers before her. Nobody would persuade her to take Daniel down that road. Blake knew nothing about being a father. Sure, hed probably play happy families for a few months, or even years, but eventually . . . Thats what men did. Blake might be Daniels father, but that was a role he could play from a distance. She wouldnt deny Blake access to Daniel, but the custody arrangements would be on her terms. Her job was to protect Daniel from as much of lifes pain as possible. That was part of her mission. A mission shed execute.

Blake listened at the door to Sarahs bedroom. He placed his hand on the door. Hed make her see reason. No way would his son grow up without being afforded every opportunity. Sarah was being selfish. A sniff from the bedroom stilled his hand. He leaned in close to the wood. Was she crying? He pulled on the handle. Locked. His chest felt more tightly stitched than the seam of a cricket ball. The desire to kick the door in ripped through his body. What was it about this woman that made him so crazy? He stepped back, forcing himself to relax. He slipped silently into Daniels room and stared down at the sleeping child. He knew hed do anything for his son. Anything. Everything. But there were realities to face. Sarah needed to face them. He laid his hand on his sons head and stroked his soft hair. In time Sarah would see that his way was the only way.

Chapter Five
Rain streaked the car windows. Sarah couldnt help but admire the way Blake drove expertly through the heavy London traffic. Theyd only exchanged stilted words over breakfast that morning. Blake had arranged for Daniel to spend the day with Jemma and her family. Daniel had jumped around, thrilled with the idea of another day of backyard cricket. Today Sarah would work at Blakes office to develop a sustainable income stream for the Sanctuary. Blake had mentioned some idea hed explain when they arrived at work. She smoothed down her shirt. She couldnt stop touching the jade-coloured silk fabric. Shed teamed the sleek top with tailored black trousers. She wiggled her toes in the inch-high heels. The height was nothing compared to the heels shed seen on women tottering around Knightsbridge, but for her they were like stilts. She decided it was pointless not to wear the new clothes hanging in her wardrobe, especially if she wanted the executives at Blakes work to take her seriously. Of course shed leave the clothes behind when she returned to Brunei. Shed have nowhere to wear them. But her designer outfit did make her feel that little bit special. A nice change from dungarees and steel-capped boots. A red sports car cut them off. Blake braked hard and avoided a crash by an inch. He swore under his breath. Further up the road, the red car pulled the same vexatious manoeuvre. I dont know how you live in this city. Id be stressed all the time, Sarah said. Its my home. She turned in her seat. Like the Sanctuarys my home, she said, dosing her voice with a full serve of petulance. Her lack of sleep was overriding her usual even temper. Lets not discuss that now, Blake said, pulling into the Hunt-F Techs car park. Today, well review the Sanctuarys finances. A few minutes later, the lift opened on a level of the building she hadnt been to before. This is our development floor, Blake explained. Programmers, designers and the like. In here, he said, guiding her into a large room packed with computers. Young people, mostly guys who looked like theyd stepped out of some hip-hop dance troupe, hunched over keyboards. All had earphones jammed in their ears. A ping-pong table stood off to the side, where a furious battle played out between two men. Blake led her over to a young man in his mid-twenties. He wore faded jeans and a black T-shirt with the slogan So much code, so little time. His fingers raced over his computer keyboard faster than a racehorse at Ascot.

Tom, this is Sarah Walker. She manages the Hope Orangutan Sanctuary. Hi, Tom said, barely glancing up. Have you got the photos? Okay, so social skills werent Toms forte. Sarah pulled a USB from her bag. Blake had asked her to bring the images hed seen that first day in the conference room. Tom took the drive. The computer loaded up the images. Wow, Tom exclaimed. He looked up and gave Sarah his full wide-eyed attention. Brilliant. Thesell work perfectly. He pulled over a chair and indicated for Sarah to take a seat next to him. What for? Sarah asked. I briefed Tom last night. Weve going to develop an orangutan game. What will that achieve? Sarah sighed out the words. Angry Birds. Plants versus Zombies, Tom said, as if this answered her question. She looked at Blake sideways with a what-the-hell expression. Theres huge money in games for mobile phones, tablets and computers, Blake said. Ive developed a concept that will be the start of sustaining the Sanctuarys income. How? Well develop a very cool game and sell it for ninety-nine cents and will donate a portion of the profits to the Sanctuary, he said. When it takes off, which it will, youll have an ongoing funding stream. She shut her eyes briefly to prevent Tom seeing them roll around in her skull. Great. Blake didnt get it. The Sanctuary needed hundreds of thousands. How are a few pounds going to help? Angry Birds made two hundred million in 2012. Plants versus Zombies sold three hundred thousand units and made one million dollars profit in its first nine days, Tom said, turning back to his screen. Sarahs jaw dropped so fast, she felt like a cartoon character. Are you kidding me? Theres a whole world out there, you know, Blake said, in an annoying know-it-all voice. You just have to get out and explore it. Wait, wait, wait, Sarah said, holding up her hands. I dont want you making a mockery of the Sanctuary. We do vital work. A game like this could destroy our credibility. Why dont you sit here with Tom and see what weve come up with, Blake said, patting her shoulder. Ill be back in an hour or so. These pictures are awesome, Tom said. Did you take these? She nodded. A couple were featured in National Geographic a long time ago. I actually wanted to be a photojournalist. You have an amazing talent, said the designer, moving his chair and computer closer to Sarah.

The way youve captured the light here is incredible. Blake laid his hand on her shoulder and leant in for a closer look. Theyre spectacular, Sarah. She couldnt help the smile that crept across her face and the warm glow that settled her in chest. It had been a long time since anyone had commented on her photos. This game idea sounded completely far-fetched, but those words of praise did more to lift her spirits than anything had in what seemed like an eternity.

A few days later, Sarah stepped from the car into another brilliant summers day. Blake had told her it was the best summer theyd had in years. The warm breeze played with her white cotton skirt and she inhaled the scent of summer flowers and peppery oak. A bright-green cricket ground spread out before her. It was a wonderful relief after being holed up in Blakes office. Blake opened Daniels door. Are you coming? he asked. Daniel hadnt taken off his seat belt. I think we should go back. I dont feel well. It feels like Atlas beetles are chewing my stomach. Atlas beetles? Blake asked. Sarah tried not to smile at her sons apt description. The rhino of the beetle world at home, she clarified for Blakes benefit. I think I want to go home, Daniel whispered. Back to the Sanctuary. I know what to do there. I dont know what to do here. I dont know anyone here. Blake, I think Sarah began. But he sent her a look that said, let me handle this. Blake leant into the car and unclipped Daniels belt. I remember my first game, he said. I was so nervous, but you know what? What? Daniel asked quietly. Even though we lost by a hundred and six runs I had the best time. He took Daniels hand and helped him out of the car. Really? Daniel looked doubtfully across the green. Really. Blake slung his arm over the boys shoulders. Theres one simple trick with cricket. Her son looked up with childlike anticipation. Sarahs heart contracted to the size of an acorn. Keep your eye on the ball and you cant go wrong. Eye on the ball, Daniel repeated seriously to himself. Eye on the ball. Daniel, Daniel! Over here. Robert raced towards them. Sarah loved the way Jemmas son had formed such a strong friendship with Daniel so fast. It was as though theyd been friends since birth. Robert grabbed Daniels arm. Come on. The two boys ran onto the field and joined a huddle of others receiving a briefing from a man who

was presumably the coach. Do you think this is a good idea? Sarah asked, unable to take her eyes from her son. Its only cricket, Blake said. He doesnt knows the rules. He could drop a catch. He could . . . bowl badly. Blake pulled an enormous Harrods picnic basket from the back of the car, slammed the boot closed then clasped her hand. His reassuring touch eased away some of her building anxiety. Or he could have a really good time playing his first ever cricket match while his parents sit together and watch. But Blake pulled her into a stand of trees and placed the basket on the ground. He slipped his arms about her waist and her body settled gently against his. His warmth penetrated the light fabric of her clothes, making her blood heat and her pulse pound. He waited until she met his gaze. The sun is shining, he said. We have a gorgeous son together. Why dont you relax and enjoy the day. Its just He stole the protest from her lips with a kiss brimming with tenderness. A kiss that melted her apprehension and messed with her heart. This felt so good. After so many years alone, being like this with Blake felt better than magic. The gentleness turned to searching as he deepened the kiss. He still tasted of his morning coffee. Running his hand down her spine, he pressed their bodies closer and moulded against her. She couldnt help it. She ran her hands up his neck and into his hair. The warmth turned incendiary. She wanted him closer. She wanted more. She could so easily lose herself to this man. He filled an aching void shed ignored forever. Voices nearby shattered the dream. She pulled away from his body but it felt like a wrench. Wed . . . She drew in a deep breath to centre herself back on the earth. She blinked hard, hoping the action would steady her racing mind and rioting body. We should watch the game, she managed, her breathy voice barely louder than the whisper of the oak trees. Blake stared at her for a long moment, his eyes burning fierce with desire. X-rated images speared her mind . . . them partially naked, up against a tree. The flush in her cheeks fired even hotter. She lowered her eyes. His gaze, his body, his desire flayed her defences. She needed to stay strong. To be clear about the future for Daniel, for the Sanctuary. Youre right, he said, picking up the basket and taking her hand. Come on. They walked around the edge of the field, but Sarah could only focus on Blakes palm flush against her own, their fingers intertwined. Sunshine danced in her eyes. All around, music sounded from the

birdsong and children at play. For a few seconds she fantasised about an easy life, a family life. A life without struggle and the dull ache of loneliness. She spied Jemma on a picnic blanket under a tree a little way off. Blake dropped her hand and shifted the basket between them. She hoped his action was to keep their relationship from becoming family gossip and not something more ominous. When Jemma spotted them, her expression morphed into a look of faux shock. I dont believe it, she exclaimed. Who is this man and where is my brother? Blake ignored her. He spread out a rug next to Jemmas. What? Sarah asked, looking from one sibling to the other. What! Jemma snorted. Blake hasnt taken a Saturday off work in ten years, thats what. My sister is a high priestess of exaggeration, Blake said, sitting on the rug and gently pulling Sarah down next to him. Jemma leaned forward to catch Sarahs eye. He only just managed to walk me down the aisle before he started texting. Her tone was light, but clearly this had been a well picked-over bone of contention. Youre kidding me, Sarah exclaimed. No, Jemma said. Sarah searched Blakes face for the truth. Lies. All lies, he said, keeping his eyes on the field. Daniel warmed up for the game. He raced around, shouted and joined in as though hed been part of the team since its inception. Sarah battled nagging doubts about their life at the Sanctuary. She couldnt deny that his life was lacking. But it wasnt like she had a lot of choice in the matter. So many people relied on her. So many animals depended on her. The viability of so many things all came down to her. She shifted around on the rug but couldnt find a comfortable position. Her mothers whole life had been dedicated to the Sanctuary. As shed lay dying, shed begged for one thing keep the Sanctuary going. Grow it. Make it better. Sarah had shoved aside all her own dreams and promised. Blake passed her a Pimms and lemonade complete with ice in a glass tumbler. She idly wondered how hed produced the luxury from the picnic basket. You seem a world away, Blake said. Just thinking. Daniel took his position in the outfield. She closed her eyes and sent out a silent prayer to the universe. Blake clasped her hand. A comforting warmth with a major dash of delight spread over her. She opened her eyes.

Hell be okay, Blake said. Hes never done anything like this before. Her voice tittered, threatening to break. Thats why its good for him. Its important to prepare for life in this big, bad world. I think its important to protect him from it. You cant do that forever. She could try. The bowler took up his position. Blake squeezed her hand, his thumb caressing the top of her knuckles. For just a moment she wondered what it would be like to build a life with this man beside her. Maybe hed break the mould and be a man who stayed? Blakes phone buzzed in his pocket. He pulled his hand free from hers, yanked the phone from his pocket and answered the call. Yes? He listened. One minute. He stood and without a backward glance, walked out of earshot, his back to the game. I knew it couldnt last, Jemma said, shaking her head. Its impossible to make him take a break. He thinks every project will be the one that seals the companys future. Then, off he goes again onto the next. Hes hopeless. Blake strode back and forth between the trees at the edge of the field. Games started, Jemma said, pointing. The first ball flew down the pitch. Daniel ran his hand over his thighs again and again. His anxiousness radiated across the pitch and straight into Sarahs heart. Her throat dried. She needed Blakes support. Daniel needed his fathers support. I have to go, Blakes tight voice sounded behind her. What? she said, tearing her eyes from the field. You cant leave. He held up his phone, as if somehow that provided the justification. Theres an issue at work. She stood quickly. It can wait. The anger rose involuntarily in her voice. Ah, Ill check on the other kids in the playground, Jemma said, absenting herself. I know I havent explained the significance of our current project, but its important . . . vital to the companys future. Our son is playing cricket out there. She flung her finger in Daniels direction. His first game ever. Therell be other games. Incredulity spread like fire through her veins and burned all the way to her toes. But therell never be another first game. She didnt mean to yell, but the angry words flew out like bats from a cave at dusk. A number of people nearby glanced in her direction.

Something flared in his eyes but was gone in an instant. I cant stay and thats the end of it, he said, his voice annoyingly calm and controlled. Well, he was right about that. It was the end. The end of any notions Sarah had about Blakes ability to be a good father. He didnt care. This would be the beginning of the inevitable series of letdowns Blake would inflict before he eventually left them altogether. It was a pattern that infected the lives of Walker women. Her grandfather had left. Her father had left. And Daniels father, well, he was following a well-worn, predictable path. Go, she said, turning from him, folding her arms and trying to concentrate on the game. Tears prickled in her eyes. Tears of lost hope and aching disappointment. When her father had left, shed been devastated. At the time, shed wondered if shed ever breathe again. Her chest had clamped tight with pain for months . . . years, if she was honest with herself. She didnt want that for Daniel. Her mum had been right: men take what they want and then . . . Its just a kids game. Sarah fought herself to say no more, but the words couldnt be contained. This is why you shouldnt be involved in Daniels life. Youll let him down. Let me down. Youre completely overreacting. It was as though the sky was painted red. I wish youd never come back into my life. Clearly, youre upset, but I cant talk now. Ill see you tonight and well go out for dinner. Somewhere nice. Just the three of us, he said, patting her arm. She pulled away from him. His flippant dismissal fuelled her fury. Thats your solution for everything, isnt it? She sounded hysterical but she didnt care. Throw money, luxury, toys at the problem. Buy your way out of any emotional dramas. Im going to leave now before you say something you might regret. Youre my only regret. She hurled the words like a dagger. Blake stood rigid. Ill see you tonight. He turned and walked back to the car. Kids shouts whipped Sarahs attention back to the pitch. Fielders were all running towards Daniel. The hairs on her arms stood straighter than the rigid wooden wickets. Whats wrong? She raced to the rail surrounding the field. Was he hurt? The kids crowded around her son. They slapped him on the back. Daniel held his hand aloft. He gripped the red cricket ball. The batsman walked from the field. Applause sounded around the grounds. Her heart rate slowed. Daniels first catch . . . and shed missed it. Her gaze flicked to Blakes retreating figure. He was striding towards the car, his phone jammed against his ear. Hed missed it, too.

Blake dropped his mobile on his desk and sat down. The drive into London had been slow and frustrating. The light drizzle that had begun about ten minutes from his office was now a torrent. The clouds swirled low and black. The sky matched his mood: black, stormy and threatening to get worse. Henry walked into the office and shut the door. How much do they know? Blake asked. Enough to know that the leak is coming from inside the company, Henry said. Blakes stomach felt as though it had been wedged in a clamp and the handle twisted, hard and fast. Theyd had leaks before, but nothing that would threaten a project of this magnitude. Blake forced Sarah and Daniel from his mind. Their very presence threatened his focus. Singleminded attention was essential or things were missed. In a few short months hed launch Project Everest and hed have achieved his objective. Delivered on his vow. Then . . . Then he could concentrate on his newfound family. But not now. Not now. Any thoughts as to who? Blake asked. My guess is someone in marketing. Vericon Tech dont have any specific product details, but they know enough to realise its something big. Very big. And, they know the launch date. Damn it. Blake slammed his fist on the desk. And theres this. Henry handed Blake a printout from the internet. Its minor at the moment. Just chatter on some environmental websites, but it could spill over into mainstream media. Blake scanned the headline: HUNT-F TECH DUMPS ORANGUTAN FUNDING. Brilliant. Who knew about the funding cut? The Board, PR and . . . Henry waited a heartbeat. Sarah. His ribs flexed inwards. Sarah wouldnt have leaked it. Blake turned and looked out at London spread before him, all grey and dull in the storm. Would she? Whos your money on? Blake asked. PR or Sarah. Blakes mouth felt dry and gritty. He could do with a whisky. He didnt want to believe Sarah could do something like this . . . But . . . We know Dianas the only person in PR with any knowledge of Everest at this stage of development, Henry continued. Shes solid, but the new woman, Katie. He checked his notes. Katie Wilson, Im going to check her out. She briefed Sarah on the Sanctuary funding cut so she has full knowledge of that situation. This is the type of PR mess that can suck up a lot of resources and sully our reputation before the launch, Henry said. Blake sat and played a five-note forte-piano scale on the desk with his fingers. A strategy built

systematically in his mind. We could use this to our advantage, he said slowly. The final planks of his plan slotted perfectly into place. Im listening, Henry said, taking the seat across the desk. Im helping Sarah develop a sustainable funding model by developing an orangutan game. Henry nodded. Lets use that as a red herring, Blake said. Bring Katie in on the project and let her believe this is the big confidential project. Give her some information we give to no one else. If we put the right people and enough funding behind it, Vericon and any other competitors sniffing around might take the bait. I like it, Henry said. Thatll have them looking in all the wrong directions. Ill set it up now, Blake said, reaching for his phone. His mind seized another possibility. And . . . being on the other side of the world . . . You mean Brunei is the perfect place for the global launch of Hunt-F Techs brilliant new groundbreaking project. Exactly. The perfect project for a promising new executive from PR, said Henry. Exactly. Let me know when youve got everything in place. Henry hoisted his battered satchel onto his shoulder. Im flying out to Brunei tonight. Tendrils of disquiet wound up Blakes spine. He replaced the phone and gave Henry his full attention. Anything interesting to report yet on that front? Ive uncovered a few avenues of enquiry. Youll have a strong case. Excellent. But for some reason it didnt feel excellent. Back in a few days. Henry left, closing the door behind him. Blake shifted in his chair. Investigating Sarah felt wrong, very wrong. He pulled his laptop towards him. But Sarahs inability to cooperate or to be reasonable forced him into this illicit action. He leaned back in his chair, running through the steps hed need to throw the competition off the scent. Hed have to cancel dinner with Sarah and Daniel. Shed have to get used to the fact that running a multi-billion-dollar company wouldnt always fit in with their best-laid plans. But even as he thought the words, a clich swirled in his mind complete with the words hell and freezing.

Sarah threw the dice. Ten. Double fives. She moved her little silver boot around the Monopoly board. Mayfair, Daniel said, without a note of interest. Are you going to buy it? Do you want it? Sarah asked.

Daniels gaze snapped up from the board. You dont want to sell it to me, Mum. You have Park Lane. Youd have a set. Are you even trying? Sarah rubbed her eyes. Staying furious was exhausting. Sorry, darling, Im just tired. Its time for bed. Daniel glanced towards the entrance to the apartment. Blake might be home soon. We could start a new game when he gets here. Pain twisted sharply in her stomach at the sound of hope in his voice. Daniel had tried to hide how hurt hed been at Blakes absence. Shed placated him with Blakes plans for a special dinner, only to have to deliver more disappointment. He said hed be really late. Bedtime, she said, holding out her hand. Daniel took it and Sarah pulled him up from the couch. A few minutes later she had him tucked in and she sat on the edge of the bed. I wonder how Sultan is, Daniel said, his voice wrung with weariness. Tino said he was much better, Sarah said, taking her sons hand and holding it. Hell be missing playing hide and seek. Sultans favourite game was finding Daniel. Daniel would hide under a moss-coloured blanket just outside the main jungle play area. Sultan loved seeking him out and pulling off the blanket. Ape and child could play the game for hours. I really miss him, Mum. His mournful face broke her heart. Blakes actions had brought on this bout of homesickness. She squeezed his hand. I know you do, darling. Do you think everyone will be okay without us? Daniels voice wobbled slightly. She stroked his cheek. I know theyre missing us, but a couple of new volunteers are arriving, so theyll be fine. Remember, were doing good work here in London. Were getting new funding. Off to sleep now. Daniel rolled over. Sarah patted his shoulder until his breathing sounded even and peaceful. She stared at his now serene face. Fury built and her muscles coiled. The ease with which Blake had dumped them for work was staggering. She walked back to her room, shut the door and waited. Half an hour later she heard Blake arrive. She didnt move. He could come to her. She picked up a magazine and sat on the bed, feet up. Twenty minutes later and still Blake didnt come. Yes, it was childish sitting there waiting for an apology, but she was damned if she was going to make the first move. First hed left the cricket match and then hed bailed on dinner. She was exhausted from controlling her rage. Just wait until he opened that door. She flipped over the page. It tore.

Another five minutes ticked by. She hadnt read a word and the glossy images blurred. Muffled sounds drifted from the living room. Tossing the magazine onto her bedside table, she walked to the door and pressed her ear to it. She felt stupid and foolish. Being around Blake had her acting crazy. She listened. Was the bastard actually watching TV? She paced the room, her teeth at risk of being ground to a few specks of calcium. Hed know she was awake. Hed see the light under her door. She checked her watch again. Nine-thirty. Why didnt he knock on her door? She stared at the solid, silent door, amazed the room wasnt filling with the steam she felt was shooting out of her ears. Maybe he thought hed get away with his behaviour. Maybe he wasnt even sorry. Well, he soon would be. She flung open the door and marched into the living room. The computer animation on the TV screen stopped her short. Sultan, Daniels favourite orangutan, loped across the screen in digital. An animated version of Daniel raced into the picture. She gasped. Sultan pelted Daniel with durians that yellow, stinky, thorny fruit, the orangutans favourite. Daniel returned fire. Excitement. Surprise. Amazement. Delight. An array of cheerfully pleasant sensations flooded her bloodstream, extinguishing her planned assault. What . . . How? Sarah didnt want to be interested. She wanted to shout. What is that? she asked, punching a hole in the air with her finger. Its your new game. Well, its a prototype of your new game, Blake answered, without taking his eyes from the screen. Orangutan Food Fight. She watched for a minute. Hell, even she could tell it was something special. But damn it, if he thought some stupid computer game would distract her from discussing his wrongdoing . . . Great, she said, throwing her hands in the air. Youve reduced the plight of one of the planets most endangered species to slapstick. She walked closer. The graphics were incredible. Intermittently, facts about the predicament of the orangutans popped into the dialogue between the characters. At least you got the food right, she said, hating that her words were infused with a note of grudging admiration. We pride ourselves on getting the details right. Those durians look like buggers. He sent her one of his bone-melting smiles. That smile thawed her fury. Hell on the outside and heaven inside, Sarah muttered. Hang on. She didnt want to talk about fruit. She planted her feet, folded her arms across her chest. You cant walk in here and think everythings hunky-dory. Listen, weve both had a big day. Before you shout at me, come and look at this properly, he said, patting the couch next to him. If you hate it, then you can tear strips off me until the sun comes up. She turned back to the screen. The Daniel character flipped in the air and lobbed a durian,

knocking Sultan out of a tree. A smile threatened to break through her grim mask. Dont think all this flash is going to help you. I wouldnt dare, he said, grabbing her hand and pulling her down on the couch. His touch evaporated the last of her hostility. Lets book a shouting match for later. Watch carefully. He thrust a controller into her hand. It took Sarah five minutes to master the controller, but once she did, the mechanics of the game came easily. And it was fun. Great fun. God, when was the last time shed had unadulterated fun? She was out of practice in the fun department. It took Blake no time at all to whip her arse. She clicked the play again button. So what happened today? Sarah asked, surprised at her calm voice. Something pretty serious. What? An issue with production. He misjudged a jump and his character fell to a vulnerable position. By some miracle, her character hurled Blakes from the tree and she scored ten thousand bonus points. Got ya, she said, laughing. It felt like the first real laugh shed had since shed left Brunei. Her cheeks flushed with a surprise rush of endorphins. Blake grinned at her, his eyes glittering with challenge. He studied the screen and expertly manoeuvred his character to retaliate. A strange competitive streak bubbled up in Sarah. She blasted Blakes character with a barrage of the spiky fruit. Take that. Blakes character fell from the tree and Sarah won. No . . . no way. Blake tugged the controller from her and pinned her down with his body. Now youre going to get it. He drew both her hands over her head and held them there easily with one his own. He poised his other hand over the sensitive skin under her arms. No! she screamed. Please, Blake. Im really ticklish. I know, he said, his voice low and wicked and provocative. I remember. He slid his finger lightly up the side of her chest. His touch left a trail of desire that radiated across her breasts and settled hot and wanting in her nipples. They begged for his touch. For his fingers to brush and circle and caress. Stop, stop. But she didnt mean it. This felt good, too. On one condition, he said, holding his hand threateningly close to the tickle zone. Anything, she breathed. Kiss me.

She didnt argue. Blake waited but no protest came. His body already ablaze with longing, he needed

no more encouragement, thought or invitation. He took full possession of her mouth like a man starved. And he had been starved. No woman had come within a thousand miles of what hed felt with Sarah. He released her arms and placed his hands on her cheeks. He delved deeper with his tongue, tasting her sweetness. She whimpered under him, driving him wild. He didnt trust himself to move. He wanted her closer, deeper . . . to brand her as his own. His. Forever. Her hands ran up his back, bringing their bodies closer. He shuddered with need. He trailed his hand down her neck, her chest. Slowly, slowly. He didnt want to rush her, but an urgent fire raged inside. He skimmed the side of her breast with his fingers and she pulled away from his lips with a gasp. Her breath came hot and fast and ragged. He pulled back and dealt quickly with the top three buttons of her dress. She watched him, her eyes half closed, her face flushed. Youre so beautiful. God, he wanted her. He slid his hand under her bra and blood and lust rushed to his groin. Mum. Daniels small, frightened voice siphoned the sensuality like a midwestern American twister. Sarah snapped rigid. She roughly pushed Blake from her body and fumbled with her buttons. He understood her reaction, but it hurt all the same. Daniel stood in the entrance to the hallway. Mum, he called again, his voice heavy with sleep and dismay. Sarah ran to him and cuddled him close. Yes, darling. Im here. Whats wrong? I had a bad dream. Oh, darling. Its okay. Blake quickly walked to his son and knelt down beside him. He didnt know what to do. Would he scare the child if he touched him? To Daniel he was still a relative stranger. Everything okay, Daniel? He felt clumsy and inept. Giant spiders, Daniel moaned. Daniels terrified of spiders, Sarah whispered. We have a few in Brunei, she said, making it clear this was a gross understatement. No, these were computer spiders, Daniel mumbled. An invisible rope coiled tight around Blakes chest. Oh no. Sarah stiffened. The temperature plummeted. Blake braced himself. They were from a game we played at Roberts. Great. Sarahs thunderous look had Blake backing away. She led Daniel up the hall. He followed. Sarah, what can I do? he asked.

I think youve done enough. The words tortured him like lit matches on his skin. Each time he thought hed broken through, had established some connection with Sarah, it disappeared faster than Daniels first ice-cream. She tucked Daniel into her own bed and then proceeded to shut the door with a quiet click. Blake walked back to the living room, ripped the consoles cord from the socket and flung it to the floor. This everything in the real world is bad stance Sarah held was starting to wear very thin. But he knew that wasnt what tormented him. He wanted her. He wanted her so much the ache was physical. He walked to the bar and poured himself a generous dash of whisky. Next time he held Sarahs body beneath him, he didnt think the world exploding would prevent him from having what he craved.

Chapter Six
Blake noted Sarah took a seat at the furthest point from the head of the boardroom table. The trip to work that morning had been a silent affair. Sarah had turned on the radio and stared out the window. Hed decided not to push her into conversation. Hopefully, after this mornings presentation, things would put them on a smooth path forward rather than their current train wreck. Sarah flicked open a notebook and wrote a couple of notes. She looked hot, damn hot. The patterned dress she wore certainly wrapped her up into a sensual package but left tantalising hints of what lay beneath. Shed clipped up the front strands of her hair, which accentuated those eyes. Clear, brilliant eyes that shone with vitality and temptation. His own personal addiction. Katie from PR walked into the room and took the seat next to Blake. Hed invited the top people from all his key departments. Except for Katie, they were all loyal, long-term employees. Despite this, Henry was the only one to whom he entrusted his plan about using Orangutan Food Fight to throw off the competition. His conscience niggled at the corner of his mind. Hed be using Sarah and the Sanctuary to hide Everest, but the incredible benefits theyd both derive would eradicate any ambiguous motivation Sarah might attribute to him. Right, lets get started, Blake said. He introduced Sarah to the people at the table she hadnt already met. Weve hit on something special, Blake said. He outlined the Orangutan Food Fight concept. Our research shows environmental games could be big business. I want to take this big. I want to take this global. And I want to do this right now. During his speech, Sarahs lips had parted and her face now held an expression of delighted shock. Hed known this was the right move. Well launch on 14 September. Eight weeks from today, he continued. Katie scribbled furiously in her notebook but looked up sharply at the mention of the date. Ill run you through the prototype. Katie looked as though shed been handed the patent rights for the next generation iPad. Then, I want each of you to outline your thoughts for the launch, Blake said. Blake, this is a ridiculously tight deadline. Hunt-F Techs head of manufacturings face was creased with concern. This is new. I want us out first and out now. Were already well into the testing phase. Well make it. Blake hit play and walked the team through the game and how to play it. He handed Katie the

controller and let her win a couple of rounds. Thats brilliant, Katie said. Was her excitement due to the game or the fact that she now had everything she needed to inform the competition of Hunt-F Techs best-kept secret? Hed know within the hour. Henrys monitoring would provide the answer. If we could go around the table for everyones thoughts on the launch. Let me know anything special you might need to get this done. Katie? Blake hoped he wouldnt have to lead her too much to achieve his desired outcome. Well, being a nature-based game, I think we should launch at the London Zoo, Katie said. Ill ring to see if they have an orangutan enclosure. They dont, Sarah said. Everyone looked in her direction. I keep a register of which zoos have orangutans. I like to keep up-to-date on the global population numbers. Oh. Katie looked as though shed emptied her ideas bank. Come on, Katie. There are orangutans at our sanctuary, Sarah said. Katies eyes lit up like a forest fire. We could launch in Brunei. That would be pretty unique. Brilliant. Sarah had led the traitor straight to the gallows. The Sanctuarys a one-hour drive through rainforest would journalists come that far? Maybe not, Katie said slowly, tapping her pen on her notepad. But . . . we could launch in Brunei and then take in a select group of journalists. That would add to the exclusivity of the story. Journalists would be fighting to get a spot on the trip. Katie sat back, satisfied shed delivered a piece of PR genius. Blake planted an appreciative smile on his face. He couldnt have scripted a better outcome. We can really do that? Sarah asked, turning her fervent gaze to Blake. The hope in her voice threatened to unlock his guilty conscience. Why should he feel guilty? The success of the game would put the Sanctuarys finances on the first solid footing since its inception. And take its story to the world. Blake pretended to consider it for a moment. I think that would work. Can you pull all that off in eight weeks, Katie? Absolutely I can, she gushed. Ill need all the information immediately in order to get to work. Her greedy gaze feasted on the treasure chest of files stacked on the table in front of Blake. Blake slid the files down the table. Heres everything you need on the game to get started. Katie eagerly grasped the file as though shed been handed a one-way ticket to the Bahamas. Blake chanced a look in Sarahs direction. Oh hell, were those tears? A hollow feeling gripped his stomach. He turned back to the screen. He wouldnt let his personal life interfere with business. Okay, next. He turned to his head of packaging development. What about distribution? Get your

head in the game. Sorry, I mean packaging. Thoughts? The meeting took another hour. His team nailed every part of the launch, as he knew they would. The game would do well. Probably very well. A nice bonus to keeping the real treasure a secret. Thanks, everyone. Lets get to it, Blake said, wrapping up the meeting. Same time next week for an update meeting. Just remember, Sarah must be consulted on all aspects of the game and its marketing. Shes the expert. Use her. Katie hastily gathered up her papers and bolted from the room. Shed taken the bait, hook, line and stinky durian. Shed be feeding the details to Hunt-F Techs competition within the hour. He was sure of it. He hoped it was enough to dazzle the competition and keep Everest shadowed in the mist. The room cleared. Sarah remained, staring at the screen holding the still image of Daniel with Sultan. Blake couldnt read her expression. She stood slowly and walked towards him. He braced himself for another barrage. Thank you, she whispered, as if she was too fragile to speak any louder. She kissed him lightly, lovingly, longingly. Desire exploded like a bomb. Blood pounded from his heart straight to his groin. Hed been living on a lustful knife-edge since last night. He ran his hands through her hair and crushed her lips to his. He kissed her hard, wanting so much more. Lets go, he said, grabbing her hand and pulling her towards the door. I cant take this any more. Being so close to you. Not touching you. Well get a hotel. Dont be crazy. She slipped her hand from his. Why? His tone was all wrong. Too demanding. Too loud. Too emphatic. I dont want this. But her voice was breathless, the sound driving his desire to the ranks of unbearable. You couldve fooled me. Wrong tone. Wrong words. But damn it, this was where their relationship should be heading. She wanted it, too. The other night . . . Before Daniel . . . You . . . Quickie in a hotel? Her disdainful words doused his desire. It didnt work out very well last time. I think we can manage the contraception side of things this time. And then what? Was she trying to kill him? Lets talk about that later. He reached for her again. No, she said. Things are complicated enough without adding sex to the equation. We owe it to Daniel to work things out as adults, not stupid sex-crazed adolescents. Sex. Sarah. It didnt sound very complicated. He thrust his hand roughly through his hair. He was

certainly craving. What do I have to do? Blake, we havent even talked about custody. How this will work. Ive just solved the Sanctuarys financial problems. In about eight weeks youll have all the money you need for repairs and more. Theres nothing to stop you from moving here now. Her chest and neck flushed red. Were not possessions you can buy. I never said that. Why did she have to manipulate every view he expressed? Lets get the game launched and the Sanctuarys problems sorted. She pulled out a chair and sagged into it. I cant face any more stress at the moment. We had a deal. Why did she have to make this more difficult than it had to be? Why couldnt she see how simple this was? They go home. Sit Daniel down and tell him the truth? Nine weeks, he said. In that time Food Fight and the Everest project would both have been launched. He could take Sarah and Daniel to neutral ground. Bora Bora, the Maldives, Barbados . . . somewhere away from prying eyes and work responsibilities. Theyd have time and space to work things out. We tell Daniel in nine weeks. The gamell be launched and youll have had time to think how you want to play this. He put his finger under her chin and raised her face. She needed to hear this message loud and clear. Thats the deadline. After that, I take things into my own hands. Are we clear? She jerked her chin from his grasp. Crystal. She stalked from the room. Damn. How had they gone from kisses to ultimatums in just a few minutes? In business everything was so easy and straightforward. He developed strategies and ideas, briefed his team and things got done. He unplugged his laptop from the projector. Hed been more than fair. Nine weeks was a lifetime. If Sarah couldnt work out what she wanted by then . . . He paused and rubbed his chin. Then . . . thatd be fine. His body eased back to calm. She knew the deadline, it was sure to pass and then he could step in and create order. He flipped his laptop closed and walked out the door. Thisd play out to perfection.

Tea or coffee, Ms Walker? asked the bright flight attendant whod looked after them all the way from London. Sarah looked up from her delicious breakfast of wholegrain toast with ricotta, slow-roasted capsicum and extra-virgin olive oil. Coffee, thank you. The flight attended poured coffee from a bright silver pot into her cup. It was a whole new experience drinking her coffee on a plane from real china instead of throwaway plastic.

She sipped the delicious liquid and glanced over at Blake. He still slept. Shed woken up twice during the night and hed been working. Sarah looked out the window of the British Airways 747. Later that day theyd launch Orangutan Food Fight and nerves already circled like vultures in her stomach. If everything went well, the financial troubles of the Sanctuary would be history. Well, at least for the foreseeable future. If Blakes finance team was to be believed, the game would net the Sanctuary hundreds of thousands of pounds from the twenty-five-cent donation it would receive from the sale of each game. She didnt really believe they could earn that much money from the game, but the publicity of the event would hopefully bring in a few new donors. The aircraft began its descent into Bruneis capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. The golden domes of the sultans palace glowed in the distance, lit by the first rays of the morning sun. She couldnt believe they were here. The flight attendant returned and cleared away her breakfast. She drew her hands over her head and stretched. First-class had certainly delivered her in better shape than economy had dumped her in London all those weeks ago. Morning. Blakes smooth voice sounded as sweet as the chocolate petit fours theyd been served last night with their after-dinner liqueur. Morning. You missed breakfast. Doesnt matter. The crew looked after me well last night. Sleep well? Very. I didnt know it was possible to sleep so well on a plane, she said. Stick with me, baby, and its first-class all the way. There you go again, throwing money everywhere. But she said it with a smile. Over the weeks a series of small barriers between them had been breached. Any more news about that panda game? she asked. One of Blakes major competitors had launched an environmental panda game a few days earlier. Will it impact our sales? Looks like it bombed. Really? Gamers arent stupid, Blake said, unclipping his seatbelt. The game lacks authenticity. In fact, its probably done us some favours as well come out with Food Fight and can play the authentic card to the max. Quite a coincidence their launching that so close to ours. It happens. He stood, leant over and kissed her softly on the lips. Back shortly. He headed for the bathroom. She watched his tall, broad frame walk up the aisle. Being with Blake was now so easy. Theyd settled into a busy routine over the past couple of months. Shed been surprised by how much shed

enjoyed working each day at Hunt-F Tech. Shed learned so much about computers, financial projections, business planning. Theyd both been busy. Long days and not much sleep. Daniel had taken to his school like an orangutan to fresh durian fruit. In fact, he was quite the celebrity with his classmates. No one else at the school had lived close to wild animals in a jungle. He had enough spider, snake and insect stories to keep the kids entertained for months. She crossed her legs and shifted to a more comfortable position. So different from her own school experience. Daniel and Robert were now inseparable and spent hours at each others homes. But shed been so busy, she hadnt set her mind too far into the future. She didnt know how to resolve the custody issue. No version of events shed conjured up seemed workable. She sipped her coffee. Each time she thought about it she ended up frustrated and feeling hopeless. There was no easy answer. But Blake hadnt pushed her, so shed let it slide. Good morning, everyone. This is Captain Stevens. I hope you slept well. As you can see we are coming into land so its time to take your seats and Ill be turning on the fasten-seatbelt sign. Its a balmy twenty-seven degrees and you can expect sunshine all day. The crew and I wish you a great stay or welcome home. Blake slid into the seat next to her. This time tonight we should have a pretty good indication of how Food Fights been received. That fast? Absolutely. Sarah clasped her hands together and breathed an affirmation into the universe. She hoped her mother was listening. With Blakes help, the Sanctuary will be saved!

Sarah stood alone in the lobby of the Paradise Hotel. Blake had to take a conference call with London. Enormous soaring cream pillars with intricate gold-and-ebony detailing dominated the cavernous entry hall. The floor featured a patchwork of ivory-and-caramel marble. Sheer walls of glass three storeys high framed an entrance fit for a king. Well, a sultan in this case. From the cool, luxurious interior, a visitor would never know Brunei was a country dominated by uninhabited jungle. The lush potted palms were the only hint of the tropical nirvana that lay beyond the city. Sarah had only had time for a quick shower and a change of clothes before coming down for a runthrough of the launch. Thank goodness shed selected a simple cotton shift dress and heels. Anything else and shed have baked under the heat of the lights and the sizzle of her nerves. Blake, of course, had been relaxed, eloquent and magnificent. She slid into a corner seat and watched the glamorous people parade through the opulence. She

didnt fit naturally into this stratum of society, even though she sported a designer handbag and expensive clothes. Pulling her wallet from her new handbag, she flicked it open to her favourite photo of Daniel. In his nine and a half years on this planet, theyd never been separated. When Blake had suggested he stay in England and continue at school, shed protested vigorously. But when Daniel had begged to stay, shed relented, although her heart had torn a little bit. Shed always been the centre of Daniels world, and seeing him step out on his own brought a combination of pride and absolute terror. She missed him so much, the dull ache in her heart a constant reminder of the distance between them. Blake sat down next to her. He slipped his arm around her shoulders and looked at the photo. Hell be fine, Blake reassured her for the thousandth time. Im eleven thousand kilometres away. Daniel had informed her of the distance after looking it up on the internet. Hes having the time of his life with his cousins. He took the wallet from her hands and slipped it back into her bag. He clasped both her hands in his. Remember the last time we were here? he asked, his gaze dangerous and full of suggestion. She drew in a slow breath. Those days changed my life forever. I know you still dont believe me, but my life changed that day, too. Sarah, you lived in my heart Excuse me. Katies sharp voice guillotined the conversation. Blake dropped Sarahs hands and stood. The guests are starting to arrive, Katie said. We really should go in. Thanks, Katie. Well be there in a moment. Katie hesitated. A second look from Blake moved her off quickly. He extended his hand. Time to make some money. Sarah didnt take his hand. Im scared, she said. Some of the richest, most influential people in the world will be in that room today, Blake said in a low voice. Im not telling you this to scare you. Im telling you because this is your opportunity. Tell the world about orangutans. Tell them about the Sanctuary. Tell them how this game can help orangutans roam wild again in Brunei. Tell the world how your work has been the driving force behind a small jungle economy. I want you to see how reaching out is better than locking yourself away in the depths of the jungle. This is how youll keep the Sanctuary alive. But I dont know if I can do it. Well, I know you can. He clasped both her hands, hauled her up, walked her across the lobby and into the grand ballroom. The packed room echoed with animated conversation.

She recognised some of the countrys top government officials. Her chest tightened. All the wellrehearsed words of her speech vanished. Thats the Minister for Environmental Management and Heritage. Sarah pointed to a short, intense-looking man. Ive been trying to get a meeting with him for years. Well, have one now, Blake said. No, Sarah said, holding back. I . . . We cant . . . We have to go through official channels. Lets just see. He walked her over to where the minister stood chatting to a small group. Good morning, everyone. He introduced himself. This is Sarah Walker, CEO of the Hope Orangutan Sanctuary and the brains behind the project. A quick round of introductions followed: a journalist from the Financial Times ; a TV reporter from the local television station; a representative of the World Wildlife Organisation. Just having face-time with these three people would have made the day worthwhile. So, Minister, how does the government support the Sanctuary? Blake asked. Sarah wanted to slink away. Walk away. Run away. How did Blake know how to talk to power people with such ease and directness? We are very supportive of Ms Walkers work, the minister replied. In what way? Blake asked. Each year we review her application for funds. Hows this years application progressing? The minister didnt skip a beat. We have plans to increase our funding this year. Katie tapped Blake on the shoulder. Its time to start. Id be honoured if you could join us on stage, Minister, and announce the potential funding. The knot of nerves in her stomach turned into a seething sea of anxiety. Blake wasnt following the rules. He wasnt going through the proper channels. Thered be no way the minister would be forced into such an announcement. The ministers eyes travelled to the television cameras set up in front of the stage. An excellent plan, he decreed with a perfect politicians smile. Sarahs eyes flared and her heart flipped, but she held herself steady to stop her jaw dropping indelicately to the floor. Brilliant, Blake said. Lets get underway. He led Sarah from the group. Ready? he asked. Im terrified. Come with me for a moment. He took her through a staff-only door. Blake, we cant go in here. But he gripped her hand and tugged her into a dim corridor.

Sarah, without you, none of this wouldve happened. Maybe, but without you, none of this couldve happened. He placed his hands on her cheeks and kissed her. Deep. Long. Her nerves took a back seat to desire. We make a great team, he said. Before she could tame her riotous breathing, he pulled her through the door and up on stage. Heat touched her face. Spotlights hit her eyes. The hum of the crowd ratcheted up. A mass of faces tracked her journey to the microphone. With Blake by her side, it was as though she could achieve the impossible.

Thank you for listening. Sarah clicked to her last slide, an image of her team and the Sanctuarys twenty baby orangutans. She stepped back from the microphone. Roaring applause sounded through the room. She shook not just with relief but also with joy. She knew her face was flushed and her heart still banged hard in her chest, but the presentation had been seamless. Blake claimed the microphone for the final flourish. I think wed all agree this is an environmental initiative deserving of global support and recognition. With Orangutan Food Fight, Hunt-F Tech plans to bring the plight of the orangutans to the world and raise money to build a sustainable population here in Brunei. He paused and swept his gaze across the room. I give you Orangutan Food Fight. The games logo leapt onto the screen with a digital counter underneath. The counter displayed a zero. Five, four, three, two, one. Immediately, the number jumped. Two. Ten. Thirty. Fifty. The audience hummed. Blake checked his watch. Fifty games downloaded in the first thirty seconds. I hope you all bought Hunt-F Tech shares this morning. The assembly laughed. A number of journalists hurried to the exit. We have a few minutes for questions, then those journalists joining us at the Sanctuary will need to assemble outside. The bus will leave immediately after the conclusion of questions. The number multiplied faster than kids hands reaching for birthday cake. Sarah. Sarah. She turned back to the crowd and located the journalist calling her name. How does your son feel about being the star of whats sure to be a global phenomenon? Hes very excited. But I wont let it go to his head.

A man dressed in a T-shirt emblazoned with a famous British tabloid newspaper masthead stepped forward. Sarah, is it true youve been living in Blakes apartment? Is this more than a professional relationship? Sarahs heart fumbled in her chest. She tried to swallow, but her throat felt horribly dry. Blake stepped up next to her and leaned into the microphone. Sarah and I met many years ago when my company conducted business in this country. I thought living in my home would be better for Sarah and her son while we worked the long hours required to bring this project to fruition. Hotels arent much fun for kids. Sarah tried to bring her breathing back under control but it raced in and out. Katie tapped her watch from the side of the stage. It would all be over soon. Thats all we have time for today. Thank you, everyone, for coming, Blake said. Katie will now outline the rest of the proceedings. Follow me, Blake said. Sarah stuck close to Blake as a throng of journalists and dignitaries crowded around them. The tabloid journalist pushed to the front of the crowd. Come on, Blake. Dont give that pap answer. Whats with you and Sarah? He shoved a small tape recorder in Blakes face. Blake eyeballed the journalist and affected a this-could-be-your-last-story smile. Ah, Trevor, always the best questions from you. Sarah and I have formed a strong working relationship over the development of the game. Who better to bring authenticity to a game than a woman who has lived with these animals her whole life? Blake turned from the annoying man. Sarah, can you add to that? The tape recorder bumped her cheek as the journalist thrust it forward. Blake placed his hand over the device and forced it back down. Sarahs needed for the next phase of the trip. Ah . . . yes. She took her cue and walked with purpose from the room and broke into a trot once shed fled the ballroom. One of Blakes staff showed her to the rugged four-wheel drive that would take them out to the Sanctuary. She hurled herself into the passenger seat and slammed the door. The tinted windows blocked her safely away from the outside world. What had she done? She hadnt thought this through. A camera crew walked past the car. She slid

down in her seat. This game would expose Daniel to the world. Their lives to the world. And could expose the secret of Daniels paternity.

Chapter Seven
Standing in the middle of the humid jungle with an orphaned orangutan in his arms wasnt something Blake had ever envisaged. The baby apes arm wound about Blakes neck and the animal looked up at him with dark, soulful eyes. He scratched the infants tummy and was rewarded with a big-lipped grin. The jungle seethed with life. Wild sounds emanated all around: the tonk-tonk sound of a brown barbet; a barking lizards grunt; the trees creaking and rustling and groaning. A recent shower had left the jungle smelling fresh . . . of exotic fruit, lush foliage and rich, damp earth. Water dripped from the plants like a steady flow of tears. A green snake skittered up a nearby tree. He watched its careful, steady progress until it disappeared into the thick, green canopy. He turned his attention back to Sarah, who stood in the centre of the group of journalists. She held their rapt attention. In the wild, mothers are with their babies twenty-four hours a day for the first seven or eight years, Sarah said. In order for these babies to grow up healthy, happy and with the skills they need, we have to simulate that level of parenting. Each of these babies has two babysitters who monitor them around the clock. They teach them to climb trees, feed themselves and other essential life skills. The baby clung closer and rested his head on Blakes chest. For the first time in forever, he felt actually present in that moment. Being cuddled by a wild animal, in a jungle, watching Sarah with . . . with absolute bursting pride. What shed achieved in this remote place, with such limited resources was beyond astounding. Theyd changed into jungle gear at a road stop on the way to the Sanctuary. Sarah now sported a pair of shorts and a T-shirt that showed off her muscled body. Sweat tinged the fabric across her chest, making her shirt cling deliciously to her breasts. The thick socks and steel-capped boots gave her a sort of Lara Croft appearance. That dont-mess-with-me quality, which he found incredibly seductive. He patted his charge, to stop his mind heading off into sweaty-bed-action territory. An hour later, Blake stood next to Sarah as they waved off the majority of the media from the Sanctuary. The sun dipped in the sky. The tour of the facility had been a huge success. Fortunately, Sarahs relationship with Blake was of zero interest to the environmental media and Sarah had been able to concentrate entirely on the Sanctuary, her work and the animals. The journalists had probed with intelligent questions, and Sarah and her team had impressed everyone with their knowledge, dedication and commitment. I cant believe it, Sarah said, her voice still infused with breathy enthusiasm. That was

incredible. Did you hear? Global Preservation magazine is going to run a cover story on us. Theyve asked for some of my photos. Blake took her in his arms. Heavy jungle air fed the lust that had been building all day. You were incredible. He ran his hands up her back, feeling the muscles through her cotton shirt. Blake. Stop. She glanced about. Someone will see. A small number of journalists were staying overnight to report on the first release of orangutans into the wild, which was to take place the next morning. But Tino had already led them off to the bunkhouse. Theres no one about, he said, pulling her close, moulding his body with her own. Driving himself wild in the process. Come on. Lets get inside. You dont want to be out here when the mozzies descend. She led him down a narrow path to a basic wooden building. It stood a little apart from the rest of the Sanctuary buildings in a small clearing near a stream. The cicadas hammered out their evening refrain. Various animals screeched somewhere in the distance. The sky boiled with a thousand black bats flying low over the trees. The evening dropped quickly into a heavy blanket of darkness. Sarah stepped onto the small wooden verandah and flicked on a dim outside light. The naked bulb only illuminated a few metres into the inky black. Take off your boots out here, she said, dropping onto a wooden bench. Otherwise the house gets full of mud and leeches. Sounds like an intoxicating mixture. He sat next to her and hoisted off his boots. Cakes of mud dropped onto the bare wooden boards. Ha, ha. She stood and barred the doorway. Just remember, this is not London or some five-star hotel. Our funds go into caring for orangutans. Okay? Theres nothing to apologise for, Blake said. This is your home and you do amazing work out here. Im so proud of you. His words didnt seem to register. She hesitated, her hand on the doorknob. Come on, he said. We need to phone London and find out the sales numbers. With no internet or mobile-phone coverage in the jungle, Blake had been going crazy. It was probably the first time in his adult life that hed been without his multitudinous communication network. Sarah opened the door and ushered him inside. Cosy. Did his smile disguise his utter shock? Hed been prepared for austere but . . . The sparsely furnished living area was not much bigger than the average hotel bathroom. A shabby galley kitchen that lined one wall featured hideous orange and moss-green diamond-pattern tiles. A battered wooden table with four chairs occupied most of the remaining space except for a single bed up

against a wall with a few shelves hammered above it. An old oriental rug covered a large section of the clean but rough concrete floor. Everything in the place screamed just make do. Youre horrified, arent you? Her tone begged him not to be. Dont be ridiculous. Horrified didnt describe his rioting emotions. At that moment he felt he could donate his entire fortune to compensate Sarah for the hard life shed led. He dumped his pristine designer overnight bag on the hard bed. Daniel sleeps here? Sarah opened a side door, which led into a bedroom. Yes. We only have one bedroom, she called. If you need the bathroom, we all use the central amenities block. Blake had known hardship in his life. Serious hardship. But this life presented a whole new level of hardship. No matter how bad things had been for him and his family after his father had died, theyd never had to cross a malaria-carrying, mosquito-infested forest to use the loo. He ran his finger along the myriad books on the shelf above Daniels bed. The titles consisted of a second-hand mix of classics and popular childrens books. If Daniel had consumed all these, he was probably the most well-read nine-year-old at his school. Stacked at the base of the bed, on an old trunk, was an ancient but complete set of Encyclopaedia Britannica. Next to it was a neat pile of exercise books. He sat down and flicked through the top one. The pages were covered in small, neat sums. Complicated maths. Even equations and simple trigonometry. From what he could gather, this was seriously advanced maths for a child Daniels age. He replaced the book and paced the room. The dining table was covered with a completed jigsaw puzzle a detailed map of the world. We finished that before we left for London, Sarah said, coming up next to him. I like to find different ways of making Daniels school lessons come to life. Shed changed her T-shirt and the smudges of dirt had disappeared from her face. Her hair was down and she brought with her a delicate scent of jasmine and citrus. Hed phone London and then theyd have the whole night ahead of them, alone, in the jungle, all hot and sweaty. The thought drove his core temperature higher than its already tropical level. He tapped his finger on Englands capital. Lets phone London and find out how sales are going. He looked around for some form of modern communication. Do you think well have sold many more games? You really are an internet virgin, he said. These things can go viral within minutes. How? Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, Tumblr. You know . . . social media? Of course I do. But she looked down at the puzzle and tapped a wayward piece back into place. Ever used any of them? No, but that doesnt mean I wouldnt be able to. Im not stupid.

He placed his hand on her shoulder. There are lots of things I might think about you, but stupid isnt one of them. Why dont you put on the news and see if weve made the headlines? She tilted her head and sent him a you-poor-love smile. What? he asked. We dont have a TV. He looked around the small space. Not one modern trapping in sight. Ah, right. Phone? You do have a phone, right? She pointed. No wonder he hadnt noticed it. The old asparagus-green dial-up phone sat on the bench. He hadnt seen a phone like that since . . . since a trip to the science museum. Remind me how you work one of these things. He made a show of inspecting the antiquated device. Hilarious, she said, filling a battered metal kettle. Tea? Prefer something stronger. Okay, Ill pop off to the bottle shop, shall I? she said, her voice laced with exaggerated sarcasm. She placed the kettle on the stove and lit the gas burner. Lucky for you I came prepared. He pulled two bottles of champagne from his overnight bag and handed them over. The fridge looked even older than the phone. Sarah yanked on the archaic door. The rusted hinges groaned. See, we have all the mod cons in this house, Sarah said, smiling sweetly. Blake dialled London. Linda, just ringing in to see if you have the top line numbers for Food Fight. Linda gave him the numbers and a breakdown of sales in their major markets. Hed expected good results, but this? This was stratospheric. He locked eyes with Sarah. Her face held hope and expectation and trepidation. Hed enjoy brushing aside the anxiety in her eyes. Thanks, Linda. See you in a few days. He dropped the telephone receiver back into its plastic cradle. Well? Sarah stood rigid. One hundred thousand. She looked confused. One hundred thousand what? One hundred thousand copies of Orangutan Food Fight have been downloaded in the last six hours. Her face morphed with classic signs of shock. So . . . that means . . . That means that the Sanctuary has already made twenty-five thousand pounds. Sarah grabbed the kitchen bench. Twenty-five thousand in six hours, she breathed.

We did it, he said. Really? Really? Sarah skipped across the floor and threw her arms about his neck. I dont believe it. Everything is going to be okay. Were going to be fine. He stroked her hair and held her trembling body. With the Sanctuary on a strong financial footing, they could now have a sensible conversation about the future. The future that involved a move for Sarah and Daniel to London. A permanent move.

Her heart hammered relief through her veins. That weight of being responsible for her staff, her volunteers, her animals, the Sanctuary. The weight that held her captive and stole her sleep. Gone. That weight was gone. Twenty-five thousand pounds in six hours. That would surely mean fifty thousand by breakfast. And based on the financial projections presented to her last week, they were already ahead of estimates. She hadnt really believed those numbers. Shed really thought the game was a case of too good to be true. But no. She nuzzled closer into Blakes chest. Blake had made fantasy reality. All the years of hard grind, the rain and the mud. All the years of flighty volunteers, of struggling to pay the bills and setbacks. All the years of isolation, being alone and dreams long lost. Blake had swept away that entire uncertainty with some mystical computer magic. And Blake. The sound of his strong heartbeat sounded in her ear. Shed totally misjudged him. What he stood for. He really cared about making the world a better place. Making her world a better place. Blake held her close and smoothed her hair over and over. His gentle touch threatened to burst the dam of unshed tears. She shook in his arms. Its okay now, he said. She inhaled his lovely scent. A woody mix of cinnamon mingled with the lush bouquet of the jungle that tinged his clothes. A tear slid from her cheek and melted into his cotton shirt. He slipped his finger under her chin and tilted her face to his. You dont have to do this alone any more. How could he read her so completely? He placed his hands on either side of her face. She couldnt meet his eyes but finally she lifted hers to accept his dark penetrating gaze. What she found frightened and thrilled her. She pulled away slightly. Where do you think youre going? His voice was like wood-smoke wisps on a breeze. Blake, I . . . He brushed her mouth gently with his lips, stealing away her words. His hands slid into her hair. He deepened the kiss, probing past her defences and exploring freely. Heat travelled

through her body to forbidden places, wanting places. She ran her hands over his back, feeling every muscle beneath the light fabric. With zero conviction, she willed herself to pull away. This was a bad idea. This would make everything complicated. Too complicated. This . . . this feeling . . . Her mind fought for focus. His hand skimmed her breast and every molecule of her body screamed to feel the weight of his body on hers. He pulled back, his breathing hot, heavy and demanding. The hunger in his eyes should have terrified her, but she craved it, wanted to fan it, wanted to make him crazy. If you dont want this, tell me to leave now, he rasped. She ached in places almost forgotten. She didnt want to think. She didnt want to fight. She wanted . . . She just wanted. She grasped his hand and silently led him to the bedroom. Close the door. The anticipation in her body was heavier than the sultry jungle air. He did as commanded. Coming behind her, he slid his hands around her waist and down her thighs, drawing her up hard against his body. His erection pressed ruthlessly against her back. She gasped a shuddered breath. He kissed the sensitive skin of her neck. Every touch more intense, more demanding. She tossed her head back to give him uninhibited access, her skin on fire under his searching mouth. His hands slipped under her shirt and explored across her stomach, skimmed tantalisingly close to her breasts. Her nipples tightened, demanding his touch. She turned in his arms and claimed his mouth. Wanting him, tasting him. She needed to feel him, skin on slick skin. She reached for her top button, but he gripped her hand. Ill do that. He tore off her clothes, but even so the wait was interminable. She pulled at his buttons and stripped his shirt from his body. She smothered his chest with her hands, her lips. He walked her backwards and she fell on the bed. He kicked out of his trousers and covered her with his body. He licked and nipped and explored. Driving her higher, higher. Now, she begged. Now. He pulled away from her. Where are you going? she asked, her voice barely audible, as though hed robbed her of the ability to speak. I learn from history, he said, coming back with a condom. He ripped open the foil wrapper and sheathed himself. He gripped her hips and positioned her exactly where he wanted her. And then he thrust inside. The world stopped spinning. Her mind stopped working. Time stopped passing. She groaned with ten years of lost passion and arched for more. More. More. He thrust again and again. She pulled her knees up on either side of his body. She wanted him deeper, deeper, deeper.

This wasnt fumbling adolescent sex. This was adult. This was equal. This was give. This was take. He stoked her pleasure over and over, until her inner muscles became tight and frenzied. This is what shed been waiting for. This is what shed dreamed about. Their eyes locked and Blake took her to heaven. Her dull grey life exploded in technicolour.

Chapter Eight
Sarahs eyes fluttered open. The deep black of pre-dawn enveloped her. The sounds of the forest waking hummed through the darkness. She lay nestled in Blakes arms with her cheek pressed against his chest. She closed her eyes and breathed deeply, safe in Blakes protective custody. The tang of sex and raw man mingled sweetly in her nostrils. She stretched. The cotton sheet slipped down to her waist. The light breeze from the ceiling fan caressed her skin. Parts of her body tingled from their incredible sexual workout. She snuggled up closer, not wanting the dawn to break, wanting the moment to last. For time to stop. Morning, beautiful. Blakes sleepy voice slid over her like crystal seawater on a sticky hot day. He ran his hand down her back, pressing their bodies together. He kissed her long and deep and languorously. Lets stay in bed all day. He hauled her on top of him. No, she said, sitting astride his luscious body. Its release day. You wont be going anywhere if you stay sitting on me. She felt his hardness firm beneath her. He slid his hand behind her neck and drew her lips to his. He took what he wanted. She pulled away, laughing. Hold tight until tonight. She shimmied off the bed, switched on the light, donned her cotton robe and opened her wardrobe. Blakes eyes tracked her every move. How have I lived without you all these years? he asked, sitting up and putting his hands behind his head. The sheet slipped south of his hips. She allowed her gaze to travel slowly over that hot, hard body. Later. Later. Later! Two letters. I left you two letters. Ten lost years raged quietly in his voice. His eyes, frustrated and questioning. How did they both go astray? Her ribs tugged tight. She turned her back on his question to give herself strength. Now was the time. The time to tell the truth. I know what happened to one of them. What? He sat up straight. I . . . She didnt want to say the word. That ugly, damning word. I lied. What about? Sarah, come here. He beckoned her back to the bed. She walked over to him. Sit. She did as instructed. She hesitated. He waited. It didnt matter now. She wasnt ashamed any more. Hed come to her home, hed seen how she

lived and still he wanted her. When we met, I was happy for the first time in my life. I didnt want anything to come between us. I didnt want you to look down on me. I thought if you knew about my background, about this . . . She gestured to the simple space surrounding them. Youd . . . well . . . youd . . . You thought I wouldnt want you because you lived here? Because I was unsophisticated. Dirt-poor. For Gods sake, you oozed money and class. I had mud under my nails and was wearing a ten-dollar pair of swimmers when we met. That moment lay imprinted like an indelible mark on her heart. Shed wanted a fantasy life for a few hours, so shed slipped onto the pool deck of Blakes hotel while her mother attended a meeting upstairs. The pool guard had recognised instantly she didnt belong and had asked her to leave. Shooed her like a dog. Blake had intervened. Shes with me, hed announced, with such authority the guard had retreated with humble apologies. Blake had claimed the seat next to her and dispatched a cheeky wink. Shed loved him from that moment. Hed saved her from humiliation. Over the next week, hed transformed her world from a small place into a galaxy of possibilities. Then hed left. His cute crinkles creased his brow. But you were staying at the Empire Hotel. She smiled a sad, wistful smile. No. I walked you home there every night. I waited until youd gone and walked back to the little guest house where we were actually staying, she said, not meeting his eyes. You thought Id judge you because of where you were staying? Absolutely. Sarah, I wanted you the moment you walked onto that pool deck. I wouldnt have cared what you did, where you lived. Well, experience has taught me otherwise. He laid his hand over hers, the question clear in his eyes. My father left when I was six. Just walked away and never came back. No communication. No money. No support. He died when I was twelve. He mustve suffered from a guilty conscience on his deathbed as he left an endowment in his will so I could attend a private school in Australia. As it was the only thing Id ever get from my dad, my mother insisted I go. Lets just say those years were beyond miserable. Why? Rich girls, mansion homes and designer clothes. They werent going to associate with some girl from a foreign jungle monkey farm. The monkey-girl taunts had never stopped hurting. I couldnt bear for you to think of me like that, so . . . so . . . She took a deep breath. I fabricated a few things.

His hand slipped from hers and he sat with his back against the rough wooden wall. That explains why you didnt get the letter I left at the Empire. But what happened to the letter at my hotel? You said you checked. Yes. I remember vividly. Mum had to pick up some documents from the reception of your hotel. Some information your father mustve left for her. I asked her to check for me as I was in a bit of a state from your vanishing act. Nothing. I wonder what happened to it? Crazy. We didnt know the most basic things about each other. Like telephone numbers. And in your case, my last name. So, perhaps its best you dont vanish again, she said, running a finger seductively down his chest. He clutched her hand. But what about your job at the newspaper? Ah, that. She looked at the stark, blank wall of her room. She hated thinking about that time. A Houdini lover. Her mothers illness. Her dreams disintegrating. An unplanned pregnancy. She had traversed many dark valleys in her life, but those few months shed walked through absolute desolation. All her big plans sucked away by circumstance. Id scored a cadetship with the Gazette. She rubbed her eyes. But Mum contracted malaria just after you left. She hadnt been taking her tablets. A money-saving exercise. I had to stay home and run the place and look after Mum. She died a few months later. You know the rest. Blake pulled her into his arms. Im so sorry. It was a long time ago. Her voice lacked any feeling. It was the only way she knew how to deal with it. Lock away the hurt. Indulge in it and shed go mad. Anyway, thats my sad little story, she said, pulling from his embrace. Sympathy made it harder to keep the hurt box locked. He grabbed her hand. How about we make a pact. No more secrets. Thats a promise. A dull thud sounded above them. What was that? Blake peered at the ceiling. Probably our resident python. His eyes widened a fraction. Youre afraid of a harmless computer game and you have a ruddy big snake living in your roof? Sarah glanced up and laughed. Hes totally harmless. He gets rid of the rats. Mums old papers and the Sanctuary archives are up there. She needed to go through all that stuff. Shed investigated once, but after reading one or two documents, tears had prevented her from finishing the job. Since then, shed never quite worked up the energy to try again. Dont want them nibbled on. Speaking of nibbling . . . He pulled her onto the bed.

She wiggled free. Come on. Its a big day today. She stood and grabbed her toiletries bag. Ill just have a shower. She pulled open the bedroom door. And theres always tonight. She threw open her robe and flashed her naked body. Blake leapt from the bed. She screamed and ran out the door. Youll keep, he called after her. She practically skipped to the amenities block, her heavy, muddy work boots feeling like Cinderellas glass slippers.

Sarah threw a couple of roti in the frying pan. Blake sat at her small dining table looking freshly showered, gorgeous and restless. His foot tapped, his fingers drummed and his gaze flicked about the room like a meerkat on guard duty. You cant function without a device in your hand, can you? I can. But its killing you, she said, slicing up two bananas. I dont like being out of touch. One more day and youll be back in the modern world. She flipped the roti over to crisp up the other side. Dont suppose theres any reception at the release site? She shot him a patient smile. No. She served the roti onto two plates, topped with banana and drizzled bush honey. She placed a plate of her favourite breakfast in front of Blake. Hmm, this looks good. Thanks for coming today. She knew his staying here at the Sanctuary was a big deal. He didnt need to stay. He could have left after the launch the day before. But here he was, sitting at her rickety table eating roti. What if? What if shed trusted him all those years ago and told him then about her life, where she lived? What would her life look like now? Wouldnt miss it, he said, scooping up his fork. Ill make a few calls and then Im all yours. She took her seat with her own breakfast. Today would mark a monumental moment in Bruneis ecological history. Evidence showed that orangutans had once roamed the mountainous area of the country, but had become extinct within the Bruneian borders. Poaching, deforestation and natural disaster had all contributed to the species destruction across the island of Borneo. But today would, in time, change the fate of this threatened animal. With Blakes massive injection of cash, the

Sanctuary could now build a viable congress of animals that in time would become self-sustaining. Her mothers dream would become a reality. Sarah would have fulfilled her promise and be . . . be . . . Her hand stilled halfway from her plate to her mouth. A slice of banana dropped back on the plate. Free? The day shed promised her mother to save the Sanctuary was the day shed stopped entertaining the idea of a life beyond the trees. This was her dream, too, to save the orangutans. This work was more important than any dreams shed had for herself. As her mother had always maintained, to achieve great success required great sacrifice. The loud hum of the fridge ceased and the overhead fan slowed. The generator, Sarah said, pushing back her chair. Its always conking out. Back in a minute. She looked over her shoulder on the way out the door. Well be leaving in half an hour. Just enough time to get back to bed, Blake said, throwing her a greedy look. Just enough time to load the animals and go. Worth a try, he said. Sarahs skin warmed. She smiled and pulled the door closed behind her. She walked quickly to the generator site. Tino had beaten her to it. Tino was the closest thing shed had to a father since her own had left. The Bruneian local had come to work at the Sanctuary just after her mother had established it. Hed helped build every building, feed every animal that had lived here and lived the joys and heartbreak of their jungle life. Look at you all happy, he said, with a huge grin and cheeky eyes. Todays release day, Im dancing on air, she said. Strange, Tino said, fiddling with the generator and pressing the on button. The engine chugged back into life. I dont think thats the reason. Tino. The name came with a warning. Its not a crime to be happy, he said, patting her shoulder. You should have company out here. She snorted. Blake. Live here? Hilarious. The delicious joy of the morning dissipated a fraction. Ill start loading, Tino said. He walked away towards the orangutan enclosures. The team was already busy at work unlocking the enclosures and leading the young into the play area. Shed always loved this time of day. The excitement of the young animals was infectious. She walked back to the cabin. Practically, how could a relationship with Blake ever work? They both had important work to do. They couldnt live further away from each other unless they moved to opposite poles. Through the cabin window, Blake stood tethered to the phone. She smiled faintly. Funny seeing him held captive by the short cord. Being unable to pace would be driving him mad. She sat quietly on the

verandah, not wanting to intrude. She bent to pull off her boots. Angry words filtered through the window. I thought the orangutan cover had worked. Blakes voice was muted, but clearly he was furious. The head of Vericon Tech was here at the launch yesterday. A few choice swear words rang through the humid air. It felt as though a small rusty blade slid between her ribs. Cover? Her fingers hovered over her boot, unable to move. Damn it, Henry, we poured a fortune into this thing. I thought theyd taken the bait. Bait? This thing! A horrible, creeping sensation burned down her arms and settled painfully in her fingertips. Orangutan Food Fight had been . . . what? Some sort of . . . diversion? Ill head back straightaway. Next flight out. Put me through to Linda. Her heart beat but not in rhythm. She slumped back against the rough wooden wall. Blake instructed Linda to get him the hell out of there and slammed down the phone. More swearing. She stood, her legs feeling numb and useless. She opened the door. The expression on Blakes face told her everything. He looked as if hed been caught stealing. Betrayal dropped into her stomach and lodged there, heavy and horrible. Listen, Sarah . . . She held up her hand. He stopped talking. She couldnt look at him. All this . . . just a diversion? she asked, forcing the words from her lips. She hoped for a negative answer. Yearned. Begged. To have misunderstood. Sarah, I cant explain now. I have to get back to London. The tender voice of her lover had been replaced with the clipped voice of Hunt-F Techs CEO. Well talk when you get back. What happened to no secrets? she asked. Her dreams of a different life, a happy life dripped away with every word he uttered. This is business. Its got nothing to do with you and me. His tone emphasised his sparse choice of words. I meant no secrets between us. He strode past her. Lets not get the two confused. But the Sanctuary isnt business, its my life. She tried to eliminate the hysterical wobble from her voice. Shed spent years controlling how she felt, what she thought about, or, more to the point, what she didnt think about. Blake had opened her emotional gate and her feelings had bolted. Listen, I dont expect you to understand, but my main rival has obtained competitively sensitive information about the most important product weve ever launched. He threw clothes into the leather overnight bag. So you used me . . . used Daniel. Dont be ridiculous. You got a lot out of this, too. The words came fast and harsh and with a

nasty tone of accusation. Honestly, Sarah. I cant discuss this now. This is extremely important and Im on the wrong side of the bloody world.

The sight of Sarahs white and tortured face inflicted a stab to his chest. He stopped packing. What was he saying? It wasnt Sarahs fault. He should be better than this. Better at this. But relationships didnt often come up as a priority in his life. He was way out of practice. He clasped both her hands in his. Im sorry. Im sorry. Im being an idiot. Ill explain everything when you get back to London. But this is important. But not as important as the release today. She sounded washed out and weary. He blocked his heart to the guilt. Stopped it gaining access, wreaking havoc. Of course the release is important. But this is my business. I have to look after my business. You have to look after yours. He turned back to packing. The irony of the situation was not lost on him. Again he was in Brunei, again he was flying back to disaster and again Sarah had stolen his focus. Ill organise someone to return the car this afternoon, he said. She walked into the kitchen. The bang of pots and scrape of cutlery filled the small space. He was glad. He couldnt handle any more histrionic outbursts. He had to concentrate. Get his head in the game. He tugged the zip of his bag closed with more forced than required. Hed broken his golden rule. Never take your eye off the ball. Helping the Sanctuary . . . helping Sarah, sure, it had felt good, but it wasnt the main game. He looked around. How had he allowed himself to be lured here? Wrong place. Wrong time zone. Wrong business. Wrong. Wrong. Wrong.

Sarah stared at the door, the sound of it slamming shut still echoing in her mind. Blake had shut more than a door to her cabin. She dragged her sharp fingernail across her lower lip, over and over and over. Shed stupidly allowed herself to entertain the possibility of a future with Blake. That he had it in him to play a meaningful role in her life, Daniels life. Something at least beyond the confines of his working life. Outside, the four-wheel drive roared to life. The familiar sounds of the forest soon obliterated the blare of the vanishing engine noise. She collapsed onto Daniels bed. Her mother had been right. They love you, use you, then leave you. She dropped her head in her hands. Sarah. Tino knocked on the door. Ready?

Give me five. She dragged enthusiasm into her voice. She hauled herself up and into her room. Pulling her khaki work overalls from the cupboard, she yanked them on. A month ago, this was the only life shed ever really known. Battling for every dollar to keep her mothers vital work going. Saving a species. It had never been enough, but shed accepted this was her life. A worthwhile life. Then Blake had reappeared and tumbled everything into a jagged mess. Those few weeks in London had been . . . what? She couldnt admit shed loved every minute. But that life was so . . . wrong! Big business, big city, wealth, a throwaway life. She walked out the door. Sultans new enclosure was visible through the trees. The old male orangutan would never again be able to live in his natural habitat. A poachers bullet had seen to that. Now he could live his life with space and comfort. Blake had made that happen. She pulled on her boots. Sweat trickled down her back. Tino jogged back to her cabin. Is it true? Joy danced all over his face, making him look ten years younger than his fifty years. What? That game has already raised seventy-five thousand pounds. Blake told me before he left. Hmm. Mustve sold more overnight. She should be swinging from tree to tree with ecstasy. Incredible, isnt it? He sat down next to her on the deck. Sarah flicked a glance at the man whod stood by the Sanctuary even when things were virtually impossible. Youve achieved more in the few weeks youve been away than you have in the whole year, he said. Thanks a lot. A treacherous stinging threatened the back of her eyes. He laid a hand on her shoulder. Did you ever consider you might do more good for us out there than you do here? More good for yourself? For Daniel? A few minutes ago, Sarah could have imagined a cage being flung open for her to run free. But Blake had shown where his true loyalties lay. She and Daniel would be cogs in the wheel of his business. They werent in his heart. They were a strategy. You know I promised. Sarah, your heart has always been somewhere else. Remember? You always wanted to travel the world. Photograph the world. Tell stories about the world. Remember all those stories youd write. Your room is covered in pictures. Even as a little girl you drew pictures of everything around you. She dropped her elbows on her knees and her head into her hands. That was a long time ago. Maybe, but it doesnt make it less important. You made a promise to Jill and youll keep it. But you dont need to stop living your life to do it.

She pushed aside his words. He didnt understand. She stood. Tino didnt move. Ive known you a long time, my girl, he said. Stop living in the past. Stop living for your mother. Its time to start putting yourself first. Stop living other peoples dreams. She died for this place. Sacrificed everything. If I dont do the same Youre wrong. She didnt sacrifice anything. This was her passion. She wouldnt have wanted it any other way. But this is not your passion. She stared at the jungle and its domination of the landscape. The dominance in her life. Come on, she said, holding out her hand. Its showtime. He sighed. Sarah pulled him to his feet. One of her nails caught on Tinos muddy glove and was ripped to the quick. Ouch. Blood leaked from the side of her nail. Tino gently examined the wound. Youll need to treat that. Go on. Ill be there in a minute. She threw off her boots and stalked into the house. Pulling the first-aid kit down from the top of the fridge, she took out the well-used tube of antiseptic cream. Infection could set in fast in the forest. She applied the lotion and stared at her hands at her long, manicured nails. Grabbing the nail clippers, she roughly chopped her nails down to the nail bed. Her life was the Sanctuary. Not the glitz of the city. Not a computer company. Not at Blakes side. Shed go back to London, sort out custody arrangements and get back to where she belonged. After all, here, no one let you down. No one here used you for what they could get. And if they did, they werent close enough to her heart for her to care.

Chapter Nine
Sarahs muscles ached. She stretched her neck and rolled her shoulders. With what seemed like a supreme effort, she pulled her suitcase from the airport carousel. Although Blake had booked her a first-class ticket back to London, she hadnt slept. Her mind had whirled, analysed and failed. Failed to reconcile Blakes insensitive actions. How could he not have thought she would be upset about him using the Sanctuary, using her, in some intricate web of deception? He could have lied about anything his leaving the letters being a case in point. She queued for what seemed like longer than the actual flight but finally cleared passport control. The baggage-claim hall was packed, but her bag was one of the first to tumble down the chute. She walked over to customs. Blake and Daniel were just on the other side of the wall. She couldnt deny that Blake loved Daniel. Seeing them together . . . She threw aside the thought. But what did that mean when Blake could so easily dump Daniel, use her and place his work at the pinnacle of his life with everything else sliding down the sides? Would she and Daniel at some point be reduced to a Sunday lunch with physical Blake, when mental Blake still plotted world domination? She glanced at her watch. Thank goodness it was late at night. She could climb into bed when she arrived back at Blakes apartment. Customs waved her through and she emerged into the arrivals area of Heathrow. Mum. Daniel hit her like a bullet train running behind schedule. She held him against her heart and wondered if Daniel had any idea of the force of love she felt for him. She kissed his cheeks, ruffled his hair and hugged him again. She didnt mean to, but she caught Blakes eye. If you missed Daniel this much in a few days, how must Blake feel, missing out on a lifetime? Whoa. Where did that come from? She deleted the thought from her emotional equation. Ive missed you, she said to her son. She slung her arm over Daniels shoulder and gave her son one hundred per cent of her attention. But Blakes presence surrounded her like the spice-infused air at home on market day. Ive missed you. Blake kissed her on the cheek. Welcome home. But this is not our home. Daniel stared at them with a goofy smile on his face. Thanks. She hoped her cheeks were as cold as her heart. Blake took her bag. Daniel chatted away about cricket, school and all the fun hed had at Jemmas house. How he and Blake had ordered pizza and played a game called Angry Birds.

Its not a bad game, Mum. You slingshot birds at pigs. Its so funny. Im ace at it now. Sarah could feel Blakes eyes on her during the walk to the car. She ignored him just enough to deliver the message but not enough for Daniel to notice. On the drive back to Blakes apartment, Sarah updated Daniel on her trip and the goings-on at the Sanctuary. By the time they drove past the luxury stores of Knightsbridge, Daniel had fallen into silence. Sarah stared through the window and watched the city lights. She wanted to hate the place. Hate everything it represented, but she couldnt deny that somewhere deep inside she . . . ached? For what? The adventure? The opportunity? The freedom? Daniel was asleep when they pulled into the driveway. The valet helped with the bags then looked after the car. Blake walked the half-asleep child into the building. A few minutes later, Blake tucked Daniel into bed. Sarah sat and stroked her sons hair. I love watching him sleep, Blake whispered. Sarahs heart twitched. She knew exactly what he meant. Her son, so peaceful with his dreams. Blake had missed so much. She stood and walked from the room. That wasnt her fault. But, it wasnt his, either. Blake followed her down the hall to the living room. Lets talk. Not now, she said. Yes, now. Ive flown eleven thousand kilometres. He pulled her into his arms. How much longer? I want us together. The three of us. A family. Yes, when it suits you. She disentangled herself. How is this ever going to work? You live here. We live in Brunei. You wont leave your work and I cant leave mine. Theres no workable solution. But youve spent weeks in London away from the Sanctuary and in that time, youve generated record funds for the organisation. You belong here. Youre better for the Sanctuary here. Everything is better when youre here. Well always come second to your job. He hesitated for a moment. Thats not true. But his voice had lost a fraction of its conviction. Yes, it is. You want everything on your terms. You and Daniel cant go back to living like that. Heat bubbled up through her body. Like what, exactly? Be reasonable, Sarah, your house is . . . What, Blake? My house is what? Unacceptable.

His words stung as though shed landed in a hive of enraged bees. Every insecurity about her circumstances, the way she provided for Daniel, her lifestyle, rushed up in a torrent. Are you saying I dont provide well for my son? Her voice shook with fury and doubt. No, Im saying you dont provide well enough for either of you. Hot blood burned through her veins. She turned her back on his accusations and walked to the window. The lights of London blurred. Poking at the fabric of her life could destroy the whole flimsy tapestry of rationalisations. She couldnt listen. She wouldnt listen. Not everyone had a choice about how they lived. Look around, Sarah. This is the life you should be living. Daniel should be with his father and you should be with me. She whirled to face him. Oh yes, we can be with you, but only when its convenient. The words tasted of bitter ash. What the hell does that mean? You really dont know, do you? Is this about that stupid cricket match? For Gods sake, Sarah, dont be so damn melodramatic. So I missed a game. So what? Therell be other cricket matches. And Food Fight? That benefited both of us. Dont turn that situation into something more than it was. I couldnt tell you about our plans, it was on a need-to-know basis only. Exhaustion prevented her from protesting. She flopped onto the couch. You rank us lower than a computer game. Dont be ridiculous. That bloody word again. If he called her or her views ridiculous again . . . The burning anger rose up and out. She stood. Look at how you treat your own family. A look shed never seen before locked up his face. What about my family? His voice held a sharp edge, which came with a steely warning. You bring some stupid oversized hamper, stuffed with a whole pile of stuff Jemma doesnt want or need. You spend the whole time on your mobile or computer, without really communicating with anyone, and then you leave. You may be a brother in name, but really youre a benevolent stranger bringing expensive, useless gifts. His Adams apple ratcheted up then down. Did Jemma tell you that? Raw shock threaded his words. She felt like one of those cruel women from a Charles Dickens novel, but she didnt care. If he could be so careless with her feelings then he could learn some hard home truths.

She didnt have to tell me. If you had any insight at all, youd see it for yourself. But no, youre all wrapped up in your company, your games and making obscene amounts of money. Every muscle in his body tensed as though torn between fight or flight. She waited for his usual rational high-handed retort. For him to dump all her words in the dont-be-ridiculous category. But he walked to the couch and his body buckled. His strong, conquer-all features fell from resolute to ruined. It felt as though each of her ribs had turned into a clamp twisted to its tightest position. She stood frozen, lost as to how to handle the situation shed ruthlessly engineered. He placed his elbows on his knees and dropped his head into his hands. I dont know any other way. His hushed tone wrung the blood from her heart and the breath from her lungs. What had she done? Oh, Blake. She flew to the couch and slid her arm across his broad, hunched shoulders. Im so sorry. I . . . She didnt know how to proceed. Their relationship only knew the tediousness of dispute or the overwhelming pull of desire. Shed been so busy trying to get him to understand her position that shed never really considered he was anything but as he presented himself. Hard. Single-minded. Driven. Shed never dreamed there might be more to this corporate giant. She rubbed his shoulder softly with the tips of her fingers. He didnt move. Fear gathered more strength with every heartbeat. Shed pushed too far. Id been about to board a plane to find you when I got the call about Dads death, he said. The words forced the air from her lungs. She held him tight, hoping her words hadnt wreaked permanent damage. Why hadnt she believed him earlier? Hed called me but I was too distracted to talk. Too consumed by you, my love for you, my plans for a life with you. She could hardly breathe, terrified any sound might cut short the words he needed to say, the words she needed to hear. He didnt speak for a few minutes. She wished she could draw away the terrible pain that clearly throbbed through his body. After the companys collapse, the vitriol directed against my father and our company was vicious. His face was splashed across the front page of every newspaper and was the lead story on the news every night for days. I got it. I understood it. Thousands of people had lost money. A lot of money. In some cases, a lifetime of savings. Hundreds of people lost their jobs. My father went from hero to demon. I couldnt bear it. They didnt know him. They didnt know that hed been devastated, that he couldnt face the misery hed unwittingly caused. He expelled a long, heavy, defeated breath. After the funeral, I vowed Id restore the company and my fathers name. Id try to pay all our debts. I wouldnt stop until Hunt-F Tech was number one, the undisputed leader. Id pay everyone

back with interest. Id employ more people. I wouldnt be distracted until Id achieved that. Until I felt my father could rest in peace. That I could be absolved. Your fathers death, the company crash, it wasnt your fault. No? I dont know about that. But one thing I do know is that I can deliver what I vowed and then, maybe then, I can feel Ive done right by him. Made up for not being there when he needed me. Then maybe I could stop asking myself the question, what if Id been there that night? He rubbed his hand slowly across his brow, as if doing so might wipe away some of his pain. He shifted and turned to her. Dont you see? I cant deviate. If I change my approach, if I allow myself to be distracted again, something . . . something terrible will happen. And now its worse. I have you in my life. I have Daniel. If I get too close . . . if I let you down . . . if anything happened to you . . . I couldnt live through that pain again, that grief. It would kill me. He briefly closed his eyes. If I keep everything at a distance, everything manageable, everything . . . He simulated a box with his hands. Everything tight . . . controlled . . . in the realms of practical. It just keeps . . . I know it sounds idiotic, but it keeps anything bad from happening. She took his face in her hands. Cant you see youve already achieved all that you set out to do? Blake, you brought back your family home two years after the companys collapse. Hunt-F shares are some of the most sought-after in the market. Youre there. He gently removed her hands from his skin. No. No. He shook his head. After Everests launched. Then . . . then Ill have done it. Shed had no idea of the agony stored in Blakes heart. Shed re-entered his life right at the pointy end of a mission to restore his father. But really his plan was to restore himself. Shed been the original source of his distraction. Therefore shed help him gain the absolution he so desperately craved. Okay. She stood up and held out her hand. You get to bed. Its midnight. You have the biggest day of your life coming up. Youll hear no more demands from me, well, at least for the next seven days. He took her hand and stood. And Daniel and I will watch with pride when you stand up on stage and launch Everest. Then Im going to teach you how not to be an emotional cripple. Thats going to be a tricky job. Well, fortunately I have a secret weapon. Theres a little boy down the hall whos taught me a thing or two. After Everest, well go away together and work out how to make our crazy situation workable. Promise. He ran his finger up her arm and across her chest. I know what would really, really help me relax. That come-sleep-with-me smile informed her Blake the Almighty was back. She tilted her head to the side and raised her eyebrows. And what would that be? He slid his hands down her back, cupped her bottom and drew her hard against his groin. You

naked underneath me. Pulsing heat pooled between her thighs. I dont want to be a distraction, she said, her voice already husky. Youve got it all wrong. I need this type of distraction. He flicked his tongue up the side of her ear. She groaned inwardly. How was she supposed to avoid being a complication? Dont you need to focus? Great. He threw up his hands in mock horror. I reveal my tortured soul, spill my deepest darkest secrets and you use them against me. Well, she said, slowly unbuttoning her blouse. If you think it would help. A hungry smile crossed his face. He reached for her. Nope. She playfully slapped away his hand. Not here. She walked to the entrance of the hall and slid her shirt from her body and whirled it seductively; her lacy white bra the only fabric between her and the chill of the air-conditioning. She turned and ran down the hall to his room. He raced in after her. Remember, not a sound, she said. She shut the door quietly and locked it. He pushed her up against the wall and kissed her hard, his body against her in a lustful crush. Im not making any promises I cant keep. Blake But his fingers pulled aside the fabric of her bra and circled her nipples. His seductive caress melted her words, her thoughts. He kissed his way down her neck and replaced his fingers with his lips. She arched back against the wall. She wanted more, more, more. He read her thoughts and unhooked her bra. It fell away and his fingers explored her other breast. Heat and want and craving coursed through her body. I want you. Please. Blake. In answer he slid his hand up her leg, pushing her skirt to her hips. Desire throbbed between her legs, begging for his touch. His slid his finger under the edge of her knickers and found her sensitive core. His touch torched her body with fiery desire, each stroke of his finger driving her higher and higher, demanding more and more. Teasing. Stroking. Tension building, building, building. Her breathing came fast and hard and shaky. She betrayed her own demands when she shattered with release and cried out his name.

Sarah flicked on the kitchen light and tugged open the fridge. She pulled out free-range eggs and fresh spinach and placed them near the cooktop. Shed discovered the Notting Hill farmers market and

now Blakes kitchen was always stocked with fresh food. The past couple of days had been crazy with work for Blake, but the Everest launch was on track. With a few days to go, Blake barely slept more than a couple of hours each night. He barely ate. At least she made sure he had a healthy breakfast each morning. Morning. Blake walked bleary-eyed into the room. He came up behind her and kissed her neck. She smiled. The usual? she asked. Yes please, he said. She popped some wholegrain bread into the toaster and Blake took a seat at the table. Before she cracked the eggs, she leant across the table and caressed the creases from his forehead. How late did you work? Ah, I left the office at midnight, but an issue broke at around two this morning. He poured himself a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice. All good now though. A few minutes later, they both sat eating Sarahs version of a traditional English breakfast. Ill be home late again tonight, Blake said. Sorry. Dont even think about it. You do what you have to do. Well have all the time in the world once Everest is launched. Remember, if theres anyone who can understand honouring a parents wish its me. Youll be able to do more than just honour it now. He was right. Shed already had ideas for a visitors education centre. Shed be able to sell some of the villages local arts and crafts and bring further prosperity to the region. Blake pushed back his plate. Got to shower and get out of here. She followed him down the hall into his office. Files lay all over the desk. He began packing his briefcase. You shower, she said. Ill get this organised. Thanks. I need all the files. And theres one marked Technical in the top drawer. Go. Go, she said. She sat and pulled Blakes briefcase onto the desk. Opening the top drawer, she found the Technical file and slid it into his bag. She placed her hand on the drawer to close it, when a small navy-blue book caught her eye. She snatched it up. Daniels passport. She turned it over and over in her hand. A few months ago shed have grabbed this document and fled. Itd been so simple then, escape and negotiate everything on her terms. But how could she do that now? Blake had admitted he needed help. Blake was Daniels father. Theyd already developed a bond that filled her heart with joy. Blake had wedged himself back in her heart and she didnt want to let him go.

She replaced the passport and slowly closed the drawer on an easy getaway. Blake was Daniels father. He had rights, too. What if the situation had been reversed? Hell, shed probably have chained Blake in a basement if it had meant access to Daniel. And Daniel; he deserved to get to know his father, love his father. Theyd go away together and make it work. She gathered up the remainder of the files and stacked them in the briefcase. One slid from her hand and spilled onto the floor. Damn. She knelt down, arranging the papers back into the manila folder. Standing, she bumped the side of Blakes enormous computer. She cursed. So clumsy this morning. The computer sprang to life. She glanced at the screen. His email account stood open. The title of one email smashed into her brain. Investigative Report. Sarah and Daniel Walker. A sharp injection of icy terror flooded her body, painful and rancid. With a trembling hand, she grabbed the mouse and read the email. As requested, please find attached the report on the history and living circumstances of Sarah and Daniel Walker. Court date confirmed. The short message then listed a date four weeks from today. A fear greater than shed ever known gripped her, rendering her limbs useless. She dropped into Blakes high-backed leather chair. The fear spread, fast, like a deadly contagious virus. Her hand shuddered. She reached for the mouse and opened the attachment. Strong support for full custody case. Living circumstances could be described as third-world. Incident in 2006 useful for unfit-mother case. The strength seeped from her body, her mind muddled with a kind of confused madness. Her stomach foamed with nausea. She couldnt breathe but forced herself to read further down the page. Images of her home appeared on the screen. Her tiny cabin looked squalid. The world puzzle lay completed on the table. She slumped back in the chair. Someone had been in her house. The photos had clearly been taken before her recent trip to Brunei with Blake. She stared unseeingly at the office wall and her pulse thundered in her ears. A stranger had gone to the Sanctuary, been in her home . . . and at Blakes request. Dug into her life, at Blakes request. Gathered damning information, at Blakes request. Everything she thought she knew about Blake slipped away. Fear turned to action. She sat straight in her chair and clicked further through the report. Newspaper articles came into view. May 2006. A blade sliced through her heart. Her worst nightmare. At just three, Daniel had wandered into the jungle. Hed been lost for eight hours. The story had made the national newspapers. When hed been found, a nation had heaved a collective sigh

of relief. Shed never forgiven herself. Now Blake was planning to use the incident that still haunted her dreams. Use it against her. All good? Blakes voice pierced her heart. Her gaze darted to his like a trapped animal. Whats wrong? He took a step towards her. Sarah didnt speak. She pointed to the screen. Blake walked over and leaned in. It only took him a moment to digest what shed seen. He jerked upright. Wait, I can explain this. Its not what you think. Youre planning to go for full custody. To take Daniel from me. No. Its all there. He touched her shoulder. She stood and shook free of his touch. Sarah, I commissioned the report when we first met. When I thought you were going to run. He grabbed the mouse and clicked out of his email. Were past that now. Are we? A few days ago, hed used her and the Sanctuary to get what he wanted without telling her. Why would this be any different? She took a step away from him. Theres a court date booked. He grabbed her hands. Ive been too busy to cancel it. You know how things have been at work. How could she believe him? What could be more important than Daniel, his happiness? The success of Hunt-F Tech. Sarah realised with painful clarity that Daniel would always be low down on the list of Blakes priorities. And shed probably only make the list when his mind turned to lust. Pain stabbed her heart, but she plotted with the single-minded ferocity of a starving lioness. Of course, she said, forcing lightness into her voice. She pushed the final file into his bag with shaking fingers. She clipped the bag closed and handed it to the man who planned to steal her son. He looked at her for a long time, clearly trying to decide where he stood. He kissed her. She didnt flinch. Are we okay? he asked, searching her face for the clues she kept hidden. Sure, she said, pushing past him and walking to the front door. Go to work and well discuss it tonight. She opened the door. She drew her expression into one of neutrality. Her face felt tight, like that of a mannequin, all plastic and pretence. Have a great day, she said, forcing a smile, fake and docile. Blake paused. I know things are crazy at the moment, but we will work this out. You and Daniel mean everything to me. His words sounded as hollow as her smile. I know. Thats why youre walking out the door. You cant even see my feeble masquerade. She waved and shut the door. Walking to her bedroom, she pulled her suitcase from the back of the cupboard. Blake didnt understand the law of the jungle. Nothing stood between a mother and her cub.

Blake scanned the entry hall of the Natural History Museum from his position on the steps. The cathedral-like room was packed, with people milling around the diplodocus skeleton dominating the central space. Excited voices bounced off the nineteenth-century terracotta-tiled walls. Every influential media outlet had a microphone erected at the podium. The grand staircase acted as the stage for the event. Television cameras and photographers jostled for the best positions at the foot of the steps. He turned away from the crowd and walked over to the marble statue of Charles Darwin sitting still and serene. Although Blakes announcement today wouldnt have the same impact on global consciousness as that of Darwins theories, he was about to introduce a new concept that would finally secure, without a doubt, the future of Hunt-F Tech as a global force. Ten long years in the making and here he was. His commitment delivered upon. He knew that if he could make Hunt-F Tech number one, then hed forgive himself. For not being there for his father. For not paying attention. For letting young, crazy love blind him to what was important. Today, his fathers company would become a true global force and no one would ever again question the integrity of the Huntington-Fiennes. We did it, Tom said, clapping him on the back. Yes, Blake replied. But it didnt feel how it was supposed to feel. Where was his absolution? Ready? Diane asked. The head of PR looked excited, but in her usual calm way had organised every aspect of the launch. Although the competition had got wind of the project, it had been too late for them to do any real damage. Henry had proven Katie was the source of the leak. She had been sacked and she wouldnt work in PR in London again. This town didnt give second chances. Yes. Blake touched Darwins hand. The cold stone offered no encouragement, no reassurance, no comfort. He walked to the podium, as if controlled by a game console. Applause thundered through the museums Central Hall. Blake waited for quiet. Then he waited some more. Scanning. Hoping. But the two faces he longed to see didnt appear. Sarah and Daniel had left two days ago. Hed tried everything he could think of to contact them but to no avail. Hed hoped Sarah would calm down and come back, but she hadnt. If she didnt turn up today, well . . . He pulled off his jacket, the room suddenly airless and claustrophobic. Welcome, ladies and gentlemen. Im Blake Huntington-Fiennes and today we are here to launch our new game, Conquering Everest . The slick presentation rolled behind him on the vast screen. Music resonated through the magnificent hall. A new age in gaming came to life. People sat forward

in their chairs. Conquering Everest catapults gaming technology into a new realm. Hunt-F Techs new 4-D technology is the most important development . . . Important? A blot of shock rocketed through his body. He gripped the podium with both hands. The video continued to play. The autocue halted. His family, seated in the front row, looked up at him with anxious faces. Jemma mouthed, Are you all right? The most important? This? He surveyed the room. The media. City analysts. Distributors. He glanced at the screen, at his product. None of this came close to being the most important thing in his life. The past few days without Sarah and Daniel had been unbearably painful. Living without them . . . Blake, Diane whispered from his left. Shed written the presentation, rehearsed with him, she knew it down to the last second. Everything okay? He smiled at his loyal employee and covered the microphone. For the first time in my life, I can give an unequivocal yes. He removed his hand. Sorry, everyone, I have to go. Diane, will you take over please? He ran down the stairs, his heart wild in his chest. Ignoring the gasps and chatter around him, he strode across the cavernous room, every step taking him closer to the woman he loved. The only woman hed loved. The woman . . . the family hed nearly lost because of a misguided commitment to his dead father to never take his eye off the ball. But hed been watching the wrong ball.

Chapter Ten
I know you miss them, darling. Sarah sat next to Daniel on his bed in their tiny forest cabin. Theyd only arrived back at the Sanctuary a few hours earlier. The crickets screamed their scratchy refrain. The jungle was restless this morning, mirroring her own agitation. Why did we have to leave? Were going to miss the launch of Blakes new game, Daniel said, toying with one of his books. I was really looking forward to it. It was being held at the Natural History Museum. I was, too, but we have urgent things to do here. She took a big slug of her coffee. She hadnt slept properly since their flight from Blakes apartment. Hed phoned incessantly. Shed let it ring out. Ill go feed Sultan, Daniel said, but his voice held no joy. You missed Sultan, didnt you? she asked. Yes, but . . . Daniel shook his head and headed for the door. Sarah followed him. But? Daniel wouldnt meet her eye. I know how important the Sanctuary is, Mum. I know computers arent the best thing in the world. I know being outdoors is good for you and all that. That being homeschooled is just how things have to be, but . . . Its just . . . Sarah held her breath. Its just . . . Well . . . You liked being in London. Yes. I really liked it. Oh, darling. She hugged him. Shed always believed shed been doing the absolute best for her son under the circumstances. But she wasnt. Shed delivered on a promise made to her dying mother and her son was a sacrificial lamb. Shed isolated him. Shed isolated him from things that could be his lifes passion. Sarah took her sons hand and led him to the couch. You know something, she said, putting her arm about him and trying to keep the wretchedness from shuddering into her voice. I liked London, too. Her sons gaze flicked to her face. Just a little bit, she added. I know its a long way away, but how about we see if theres a cricket club in the city you can join so you can play on weekends. And we plan a trip back to London very soon. Okay? Really? Daniels eyes shone like the Milky Way on a dark winters night. Even though its so far? Really.

Daniel looked down at his lap. And Mum . . . Yes? I really liked Blake, too. I know he was into computers and all, but . . . He was really fun. I sort of . . . well . . . I kind of miss him. Her heart screwed itself up into a tiny ball and threatened to never beat again. When we go back to London, wed stay with him. Wouldnt we? he asked. She hugged her son to her chest so he couldnt see the pain on her face. Well see. She swallowed hard. How about we feed Sultan and check in on everyone? Okay. Daniel jumped to his feet and ran out the door. Sarah followed him out into the compound. The suffocating hot and humid air sat heavily on her skin. She inhaled the smell of impending rain. A low rumble sounded off to the east. They were in for some soggy weather in a few hours. She trudged through the forest, following the happy sounds coming from just within the greenery. The carers and the orangutans played in a clearing north of the compound. The twenty orphaned apes rolled and climbed and scampered. She stood for a moment out of sight. Daniel! Tino cried when he glimpsed the boy. Tino pulled her son into a big bear hug and lifted him off the ground. Each carer hugged Daniel, warmly welcoming him home. Everyone crowded around wanting to know his news. Daniels earlier sombre expression vanished into smiles and excited chatter. When Daniel found Sultan, both ape and child raced to each other and embraced. Daniel rolled Sultan onto his back and tickled his tummy. Sultans big toothy grin had Daniel laughing and laughing. They chased each other like two kids in an overgrown playground. Sarah laid her head back against a tree and stared at the canopy. Still, after all this time, she marvelled at the incredible bond that formed between human and ape. She looked over at the group playing, laughing and mucking around. This was her family. This was Daniels family. What they were doing out here in this small, isolated corner of the world was important. Special. She pushed off the tree and walked back to their cabin. Her emotions ran too close to the surface to face her jungle family. The wild and familiar noises of the forest soon enveloped her. The drip, drip of moisture. The gentle movement of the trees. The distant shrieks and calls of the animals deep in the forest. She paused and tuned in to her environment. The forest presented juxtaposition: the wild and peaceful. Their mostly tranquil life could be fractured at any time by weather, animals or just their desperate lack of funds. This life that had been thrust upon her had certainly been tough, but the magic of this place, the

animals, the forest were truly extraordinary. But she had to face the fact that things had changed. She couldnt just hide out here with Daniel. The world had crashed in and shed have to face the consequences. But not today. She walked past the new enclosures being built with the funds from her stay in England. Blakes image slammed into her mind and her chest tightened. His betrayal cut so deeply. Sure, hed claimed not to be chasing sole custody of Daniel, but hed also claimed to have tried to find her and shed never had any proof that that was true. Hed also used her to create a game as a decoy for his real aims. She kicked a stone off the path. She couldnt deny that Blake had brought so much good into her world. Before he came back into her life, she couldnt really say shed been content, but she knew her destiny was keeping her mothers vital work alive. But now shed tasted another life. Shed experienced again the all-consuming joy of passion. Of . . . of love? Her heart beat a little faster. She looked around at the forest. The boundaries of the Sanctuary were too small, too confined, too limiting. She strode down the path, mud squelching under her boots. Shed just have to box all that away and get on with it. Shed done it when Blake had left the first time, she could do it again. She ignored the heavy, agonising ache in her heart. Back at the cabin she made herself a cup of tea and forced herself to think about the Sanctuary and all the work to be done. Sitting at the table, she watched as a lone spider worked slowly, carefully building a web in the corner of the room. She looked about her small, shabby cabin. Shed never minded their cramped conditions, but she had to face the fact that Daniel was growing up. He needed his own space. She stood and paced slowly around the room. They couldnt live in luxury, but some of the new funds could be used to improve their dilapidated home. She looked at the ceiling. The cavity in the roof would easily convert into a bedroom. A few minutes later she had Tino holding a ladder under the ceiling access and she pushed back the cover. She flicked on the naked light bulb and carefully scanned the pitched space. As much as she liked the resident python doing rat duty, she wasnt too keen to meet the reptile face-to-fang. A quick inspection revealed she wouldnt have her own Bear Grylls moment. She crawled up into the cavity. Towers of boxes lined each wall. Most of the stuff was over ten years old. Time to go. Ready? Sarah called down to Tino. Ready, he said. Sarah hauled a box to the opening and passed it down to Tinos waiting hands. Half an hour later, Sarah sat in her small living room surrounded by boxes and piles of paper. She lifted the lid on the closest box. A cockroach scuttled out and raced under the couch. She grabbed a

sheaf of papers covered in mildew. Most of that stuffs been up there for years, Tino said. Why dont we just incinerate it? There might be something important. Well, have fun with it. He left her to it. She checked the notation on the top of the nearest box. Accounts 2001. Great. She worked methodically and within an hour shed cleared about half the boxes. Most of the material could be thrown straight on the fire Daniel had lit in the yard. She hauled another box over. The word personal was written in her mothers handwriting. She tossed off the lid and lifted out a couple of old photos. Her mother holding a baby orangutans hand. She wasnt smiling. Her face held that fierce, determined look, her mothers most common expression. She flicked through a couple of other photos. Jill Walker had been the most single-minded person that had ever walked the earth. She was going to save a species and nothing was going to stand in her way. Nothing. And nobody. Sarah placed the photos in a neat pile. It had been agony watching her mother waste away so fast. Every day of those long last few months, Jill had talked about the importance of Sarah carrying on her work. In the end shed begged. Under the influence of the pain-killing morphine injections, shed said many strange things. I was protecting you. Protecting your child, Jill would mumble urgently over and over, her eyes unseeing and crazy. I did the right thing. I did the right thing. Itd been the morphine talking. Sarah would pat her hand and reassure her. Of course you did, Mum. She roughly rubbed the moisture from the corners of her eyes. It was all so long ago, but occasionally the grief threatened to burst through and take hold. Shed always come second to her mothers work, but shed understood. Her mothers mission was noble, important. She blinked and pulled out a few slim files. Underneath, instead of the usual disarray of paper, the box contained a series of notebooks neatly filed. She lifted a book from the box. A diary. She ran her finger along the spine of the books. All diaries. She glanced at the date on the volume in her hand: 2004, the year shed met Blake. The book fell open and a letter slipped out. She put the letter to one side and read the entry. Better to protect her and her child against future pain. The three of us against the world. She looked at the date. It was a few weeks before her mother had begun to slip in and out of consciousness. Future pain? She picked up the letter and turned it over. The handwriting. The hairs on her arms stood on end.

Her pulse jumped. Her chest constricted. A letter. From Blake. A disturbing tingling sensation spread over her body. Her hands trembled. She slid the page from the already opened envelope. My darling Sarah, Something terrible has happened with Dads business and we have to fly home tonight. Ill come back as soon as I can because I think Im in love with you. I know we live in different countries, but we can make this work. I could come to live in Brunei or you could come to live in London (lots of photojournalism jobs there!) because I cant imagine my life without you. See you soon. Every second away from you is torture. The letter concluded with all Blakes contact details his home number and address, office details and mobile number and a postscript begging her to get in touch as soon as possible. Her heart strained in her chest. Her mind screamed and screamed and screamed. Blake had been telling the truth. The letter slid from her hand. The room blurred. Her mother had known Blake was Daniels father. She had known how to contact Blake. Shed stolen the only link between them. Why? Betrayal burned and blistered across her skin. Jill had deliberately kept them apart. Why? Why? Why? Why would she deny Daniel a chance to know his father? Jill had known Sarah loved Blake. After Sarah confessed to her pregnancy, shed told her mother everything. Jill had watched her sob and sob and sob. Shed known how heartbroken shed been when Blake had disappeared. Men use you, then they leave you. Your grandfather. Your father. And now the father of your child. Put your trust in this place. You can trust animals. They give back all the love they receive. They will never betray you. Her mothers mantra crashed into her mind. But . . . Sarah leapt to her feet. That was her mothers life, not hers. Her mothers philosophy, not hers. Her mothers mistakes, not hers. Blake hadnt left her. Blake had loved her. Would have moved across the world for her. She picked up the diary and stared at the entry. Future pain? Had this been her mothers misguided attempt to protect her and Daniel from the possibility of Blake leaving them? As her father had left them. She read the words again, sure that was what her mother had done. How could a mothers love be so misplaced? But even as she thought the words, guilt seared through her veins. Shed initially kept Daniel a secret from Blake. Shed forced Blake into keeping his paternity a secret. Now, shed taken Daniel from his father. She was just as culpable. The ring of the ancient phone split the air. She jumped up and knocked over her chair. She snatched up the receiver. Her hands shook.

Yes? she barked out too sharply. She dragged in a shuddering breath. Sorry. Hope Sanctuary. Sarah? The womans voice on the end of the phone sounded desperate. Yes. Jemma? Is that you? Yes. Sarah, its Blake. Hes walked out of the launch right in the middle of his speech and we cant find him. No ones seen him all day. Its not like him. Her words sounded rushed, frantic. Has he contacted you? It felt as though a thousand pointed shards stabbed Sarahs stomach. Blake would never do that. This was the moment hed worked so hard for. Sacrificed so much for. No. No, he hasnt. You know about Dad, Jemmas panicked tone injected raw fear into Sarahs veins. You know what happened. I couldnt . . . We need to . . . Sarah couldnt speak. She couldnt move. She couldnt breathe. Had she done this? Had she pushed Blake too far? If he calls, please get him to ring me, Jemma begged. I will, she said, her voice a whisper. Jemma disconnected the call. A minute passed before Sarah realised she hadnt hung up the phone. She dropped the receiver and slumped into a chair. What have I done?

Sarah stared unseeingly at the jumble of jigsaw-puzzle pieces lying on the table in the dim candlelight. The storm that had struck that afternoon had turned nasty. Wind and rain battered their small home. The air held a heavy scent of earth and the pungent tang of a rainforest being whipped by wild weather. Theyd lost power and Sarah felt as though she was being slowly smothered. Shed phoned Jemma and thered been no news. Daniel worked quietly on completing the edge of the puzzle. She knew he was still processing the paternity bombshell shed landed on him a few hours earlier. Whatever happened, Daniel deserved to know who his father was and she could no longer keep it secret. Something big smashed into the side of the cabin and the building shuddered. Sarahs muscles coiled tighter. The headache that had built since Jemmas call throbbed more painfully through her skull. The door banged open, bringing wind, rain and debris swirling into the room. The candles sputtered out. Sarah jumped from her seat and rushed into the darkness to secure the door. Someone stepped into the room, torchlight silhouetting his shape.

Tino? But the person was too tall for Tino. Blake! Her heart leapt in her chest. She stopped suddenly, as if shed smacked into a solid wall. What . . .? Blake shut the door, stepped in close, placed his hands on either side of her face and kissed her. Kissed her like a man starved. He kissed her cheeks, her forehead and claimed her mouth once more. Joy and confusion fought to dominate her mind. But relief and love dashed any rational thought from becoming coherent. He pulled back, leaving her breathless. I love you, he said. I love you and if living at the Sanctuary is what I have to do to be with you and Daniel, then Ill never leave. He kissed her again, saying forever with every touch. He enclosed his arms about her and pulled her to his chest. She clung to him. Unable to think, only able to feel. Feel the man shed loved so desperately for so long. But . . . He placed a finger on her lips. No buts. No secrets. No excuses, he said. Nothing is more important to me than you and Daniel. Dad?

Blakes heart ran a marathon in less than a second. Daniel stepped into the light of the torch. Dad, Daniel said again, so quietly Blake hardly heard his son against the sound of the storm. That short little word, so sweet. It rang through his ears and raced straight to his soul. You told him? Blake whispered to Sarah. He held his breath. He needed confirmation. To make sure he could give his heart to her, to Daniel. That this wouldnt suddenly be snatched away. She met his searching gaze. Everything. Especially the part about me being an idiot. Blake reached for his son and drew him to his chest. Elation washed through him like a warm summer breeze. I understand about the report . . . your investigation. Sarahs voice held a begging quality. Im so sorry. If the situation had been reversed, Id have done anything Stop. He silenced her with another kiss. Thats all over now. He tugged Sarah into a three-way family embrace. Ill never let anything come between us again. Never. Were a family. A family. The word filled his body with a joy hed never known. This was a real life. Not just a work life. Not just a half-life. A full life. A real life. This was a moment he knew hed want to relive again and again and again. The moment that marked the time when his life truly had begun. Life with his wonderful, remarkable family.

Chapter Eleven
Six months later

The doorbell rang. Sarah threw chopped chives on top of the potato salad and wiped her hands on her apron. Ill get it, she called. She walked down the hall of their new house and opened the door. Robert shot past her. Come in, Sarah said to Jemma and the rest of her family. The others are already here. Jemma lingered in the entry hall. Its fantastic, she said, turning round to survey the newly painted interior of the Georgian mansion. Sarah had loved searching for a suitable house. In the end Daniel had dictated the most critical selection criteria: it had to be near Roberts house. Her own preference had been simple. All she wanted was an office with a view. Her spacious office overlooked Richmond Park and Daniel had an acre of land to explore and make his own. All this within walking distance of Roberts house. Wait till you see the yard. Blake mowed a cricket pitch this morning. Jemma stared at her wide-eyed. Blake mowed? And we planted a vegetable garden last weekend. Jemma threw Sarah a look that said, okay, now youre just messing with me. No, really, Sarah said, laughing. What have you done to my brother? Sarah simply smiled. What had they done to each other? Theyd both lived blinkered half-lives. Half-lives with good intentions, but half-lives all the same. Blake had returned her to the world. Now she knew she couldnt shut herself away and hope for the best. She needed others to continue the Sanctuarys vital work; the media, environmentally curious children, even those rich and powerful people in their high-rise towers. They say it takes a village to raise a child, but it takes a whole world to save a species. As for Blake, shed shown him a way back from his work obsession. She hadnt quite put him through a twelve-step program, but together theyd placed boundaries around their family time. Hed yet to break them. Sometimes he took days off just for the hell of it. Jemma walked past the dining room, where the table was set for a crowd. Well, well, havent things changed, she commented with raised eyebrows. Sarah grinned. She didnt need to hide from Blakes family any more. It had taken her a little while

to adjust, but now she revelled in her extended family, enjoying the love that had been heaped upon her and Daniel. When are you off to Madagascar? Jemma asked. Two weeks. Jemma gave her a quick hug. Thats so brilliant. Brilliant and completely nerve-racking. After the launch of Orangutan Food Fight, a number of environmental and wildlife magazines had been in touch. With Blakes encouragement shed pitched some story ideas. Global Wildlife magazine had commissioned a photo story on the silky sifaka, an endangered primate found only on the island of Madagascar. Shed never completed a journalistic commission before. But as Blake had said, shed never launched a computer game before, or hosted an international media trip into the jungle and look how those things had turned out. Ive got the barbecue going, Blake said, wandering into the room. Jemmas mouth fell open in exaggerated mock surprise. As I live and breathe, I never thought Id see this day. Its Saturday. Youre home with your family and youre lighting barbecues. Blake put his arm about Sarahs waist and kissed her lightly on the cheek. Arent I wonderful? His phone rang. Blake pulled it from his pocket. Without looking at the display, he turned it off and placed it on a side table. Oh, I forgot to tell you, Blake said. Tino rang and said the visitors centres launch is now 17 August. Excellent. We should book our flight soon then. The huge injection of capital from Food Fight meant so much had been achieved. Blake had convened a Sanctuary Advisory Board and invited some of Britains top businesspeople to join. The visitors centre had been one of the amazing ideas developed, in part funded by that group. Daniel rushed into the room. Dad! Dad! Come on. Its your bowl. Blake grabbed Sarahs hand. I think its about time we taught Mum the game. Yeah! Daniel said. Sarah allowed her husband and son to lead her into the English sunshine. Blakes sisters and their families lounged around the garden or stood chatting near the freshly mown cricket pitch. Daniel raced off to retrieve the ball. She squeezed Blakes hand. What? he asked, turning his beautiful eyes to hers. She stood on tippy toes and kissed him lightly on his gorgeous mouth. Nothing, Sarah said. Everythings perfect.

Acknowledgements
Once again a big thank you to the wonderful team at Destiny Romance, Carol George, Sarah Fairhall and Alexandra Nahlous. Working with you is such a joy. Thanks to Beverley, David, Emma and Lee, who read each draft and get such a kick out of my hilarious typos. My heroine, Sarah nearly ate a chocolate mouse in this novel. Im deeply grateful to so many members of Romance Writers of Australia for their encouragement and advice. Id like to thank a couple of authors who have been particularly supportive since the beginning of this writing adventure. So, sending my heartfelt thanks to Rachel Bailey, Amy Andrews, Bronwyn Jameson, Melanie Milburne, Louise Reynolds and Nikki Logan. And as always, to Rose, you are and always will be my writing inspiration.

About the Author

Jennifer is the author of contemporary romance novels often set in exotic destinations. She grew up in the suburbs of Brisbane surrounded by bush. When she was 11, her family moved to South America, an adventure that gave Jennifer a lifetime love of travel and exotic international locations. Married with two children, Jennifer has a graduate business degree and completed an MBA where she was presented with the Rupert Murdoch Fellowship. Jennifer spent the first 20 years of her career in corporate marketing and management consulting roles, but began writing romance when she moved with her family to Byron Bay in Northern NSW, seven years ago.

PENGUIN BOOKS Published by the Penguin Group Penguin Group (Australia) 707 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3008, Australia (a division of Penguin Australia Pty Ltd) Penguin Group (USA) Inc. 375 Hudson Street, New York, New York 10014, USA Penguin Group (Canada) 90 Eglinton Avenue East, Suite 700, Toronto, Canada ON M4P 2Y3 (a division of Penguin Canada Books Inc.) Penguin Books Ltd 80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL England Penguin Ireland 25 St Stephens Green, Dublin 2, Ireland (a division of Penguin Books Ltd) Penguin Books India Pvt Ltd 11 Community Centre, Panchsheel Park, New Delhi 110 017, India Penguin Group (NZ) 67 Apollo Drive, Rosedale, Auckland 0632, New Zealand (a division of Penguin New Zealand Pty Ltd) Penguin Books (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd Rosebank Office Park, Block D, 181 Jan Smuts Avenue, Parktown North, Johannesburg 2196, South Africa Penguin (Beijing) Ltd 7F, Tower B, Jiaming Center, 27 East Third Ring Road North, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100020, China Penguin Books Ltd, Registered Offices: 80 Strand, London WC2R 0RL, England First published by Penguin Books Australia 2014 Copyright Jennifer St George, 2014 The moral right of the author has been asserted All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise), without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book. Cover design by Marley Berger Penguin Group (Australia) Cover photographs by Valua Vitaly/Shutterstock penguin.com.au ISBN: 978-1-74348-497-5

Chapter One
Am I naked? Each drop of blood in Felicity Carters body felt as if it had crystallised into painful, icy shards. She slid her shaky hands down her body. No cosy cotton. No singlet top. No drawstring trousers. Just skin. She opened her eyes but her brain didnt cooperate. Nothing came into focus. Her surroundings looked as though theyd been drawn by a child on her first day at school: blurry, colour bleeding outside the lines. As she sat up, the Battle of Waterloo exploded in her head, infantry stabbing her temples, cavalry riding down the back of her neck, heavy weapons stationed in her forehead, firing round after round after round. It felt as if the filth of battle had landed in her eyes. All the mud, the dust, the grit. Pinching her eyes with her thumb and forefinger, she massaged her eyelids. Blinked hard. The harsh Australian sunlight penetrated the cracks in the shutters. In the half-light, she could see a huge, luxurious bedroom. Her bedroom wall didnt feature original art; nor did her furniture come from an opulent antiques store. Her room didnt warrant a spread in Vogue Living magazine. She yanked the sheet up to her chin. Her bed didnt boast Egyptian cotton sheets with a thread count of one thousand. Her heart joined her head, thudding like a shotgun. Her stomach twisted as each blast hammered straight into her abdomen. Where was she? A shimmer hooked her attention. There on the back of the door hung her clothes. Her knickers and bra dangled from a hook, out of place and ominous. Her mouth dried horribly. She couldnt swallow. She closed her eyes to block the sight. She knew she hadnt hung her Saturday-night outfit on the back of some strange door. Horrible red images danced across her lids, monstrous and grotesque, playing out a nightmare in her minds eye. Fragmented memories of the previous night filtered through the fog. University graduation brilliant. Dinner with girlfriends fun. Nightclub horrible. Wine her stomach performed an agonising flip. Sour acid scorched her throat. Then nothing. No more images emerged. Strains of theatrical music lilted from somewhere beyond the room. She jumped out of bed. Her head screamed. Grabbing her clothes, she dressed quickly, scrabbling and fumbling. The garments

reeked. Musty: a combination of smoke and perfume, stale but still pungent. Nausea gripped her stomach. She gripped the doorjamb. Fear gripped her heart. Why had she woken up naked, in a strange bedroom, with no recollection of the previous night? The mirror on the chest of drawers showed her more horror. Her make-up had caked into a mask like the Joker from Batman. Her long blond hair was a tangled mess, resembling a mop ready for the bin. Her green eyes were dull and weary. Her gaze drifted back to the bed. Lying discarded was a pair of mens pyjama bottoms. The other pillow was dented, the sheets in disarray. She jammed her fist over her mouth. I slept with someone? A terrible shiver shot up her spine. Multiple scenarios sliced through her mind. None of them included her receiving a medal for morality and decency. Time to leave, fast. She grabbed her shoes and opened the door. She could see a vast, descending staircase at the far end of a long hall. She stole towards it. Every few steps she paused to listen for anything distinct above the increasing volume of a Brandenburg concerto. The clatter of plates and the smell of bacon hit her simultaneously. The delicious aroma usually made her mouth water; today the smell invaded her nostrils, making her stomach churn. Carrying her designer heels, she inched down the stairs. Two cherubic children smiled at her from a photograph in a large baroque frame on the wall. As she inched past, the innocent little faces judged her every move. As she continued down the stairs, her eyes followed a progression of photographs. Snapshots of children growing up. In the last one she guessed the children were about four and six. Her foot struck something hard. A toy train rolled step by dreadful step down the carpeted stairs towards the hard mottled-marble floor of an expansive entrance hall. The adrenaline pooled in her extremities. Her hands flew out, silently imploring the runaway train to halt. Her heart struck four beats to every roll of the toy before the engine tumbled to the final carpeted step, tilted, shuddered and stopped. She drew in a long, slow breath and continued down the stairs, her bare feet silent on the lush, pale carpet. She tiptoed across the cold marble. Reached for the door. Morning. One word, delivered without a hint of surprise at discovering a barefoot stranger sneaking through his entry hall. It conveyed the confidence of a man who knew her. Knew a lot about her. Knew he wanted something special from her. She swung like a weathervane blasted by a ferocious arctic wind. A man stood dominating the massive living room, sporting only a pair of board shorts. Drops of water slipped down his olive skin. She couldnt help following the path of one glistening drop. His dark hair was damp. His eyes,

as black and reflective as hematite crystal, searched her face; a quick flick down her body then back to her eyes. Sorry, just been for a swim, he said. He took a sip from his coffee mug.Refreshing when you havent had much sleep. And we both know how that feels, right? His all-knowing tone, elevated brow and innuendo-laced words forced her mouth open and her eyes wide. Her brain screamed run, run, run. But she stood, staring. Desperate to leave . . . but she had to know. Why was she here? How did she get here? And where the hell was here? Coffee? It sounded more like a challenge than an invitation. A challenge to which she didnt know the rules. His thoughts certainly werent on caffeinated beverages. Ah, no. Her voice sounded scratchy, as if she had a particular taste for single malt. Come on, he said. At least you could stay for coffee. That was quite a performance. She knew from his expression he was reliving an experience shed clearly been part of. A fuzzy image popped into her brain. Shed been naked. Hed been watching. Theyd been in that bedroom. I must have slept with him. Her heart beat to the mantra shame, shame, shame. Mortification crawled up her back and settled like an ill-fitting mantle. Shed known herself for twenty-five years and yet today she stood in the skin of some slutty stranger. He walked to her and reached for her hand. Im Damon. And you are? Out of here. She stepped back and tripped on another kids toy, landing heavily on her butt. Everything crashed in at once the classical music, the splendour of the house, the powerful man coming towards her, the ball of angst bigger than an inflatable pool toy that twisted her stomach. She scrambled to her feet. Look, I dont know how I got here. I dont know who you are and Im She turned and bolted for the door. The music crescendoed as though encouraging her flight. Wait. The mocking tone had vanished. The concern in his voice checked her for a moment. Please. Come and sit down. I dont usually have strange women sleep over without at least giving me their names. She yanked open the door. Stop, he said. I havent given you any money. She turned and stared. Her eyes strained from their sockets. You want to . . . pay me? Words

fired through her brain prostitute, streetwalker, whore . She stumbled out the door into the blinding sunlight. She fled down the long manicured path to the street. The gravel scratched her bare feet. Wait, the mystery man, Damon, called. You havent got . . . Felicity heard no more. She ran blindly down the street. Away from this bacon-cooking, coffeemaking hot guy, in his mansion, offering breakfast and who knew what else. She checked behind her. He didnt appear to be following. Panting, she stopped, bent her head and put her hands on her knees. Sweat trickled down her back. How had this happened? How could she have compromised herself so completely? Straightening, she tried to find her bearings. The smell of the sea spiced the air. She must be near the bay. She roamed down the wide, leafy streets. Each block boasted a mansion with expensive European cars in the driveways, a public statement of the households extravagant annual income. She came to a familiar boulevard and the sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay. She realised she was in Brighton, one of Melbournes most affluent suburbs. She ran across the street and hailed a cab. Where to? the cabby asked. Port Melbourne. She pulled open the door, but she didnt get in. Something wrong, love? the driver asked. Her handbag. She didnt have it. She looked around as if it would magically appear. She had no money. She patted her pockets. Nothing. Ah, no. Ive decided to walk. Sorry. She slammed the door. The cabby shot her an irritated look and disappeared into the traffic. Stranded. She raised her eyes to the distant soaring span of the West Gate Bridge, the direction of her home. Great. Nothing like a ten-kilometre walk in the Australian summer heat when youve spent the night learning a new trade in prostitution.

Damon stood transfixed in the doorway. The beautiful stranger whod crashed into his life had vanished from it just as fast. The mass of long, blond hair streamed out behind her as she ran. Small, perfectly formed and hot. Damn hot. A stab of desire shot through his body. And those eyes huge and green and beckoning. As soon as hed seen her, hed been bewitched. He must have been, to have done such a reckless thing. Bringing home a stranger. What had he been thinking? Hed had high hopes for this morning after their alluring interlude. He considered sprinting down the street after her but thought better of it. Might cause a scene. His neighbours were notorious

curtain twitchers. He didnt care what they thought of him, but he didnt want to cause his mystery girl any more trauma than he obviously had. He leant on the doorjamb. His unidentified guest had been electrifying and mysterious. An interesting distraction from his usual Saturday night. He noticed a number of his neighbours had Australian flags hanging from their houses. Of course. Australia Day. A family barbecue had been planned for the afternoon. After scanning the street one last time, he reluctantly closed the door. He shouldnt go down that road again, anyway. That road only offered disappointment, disillusionment, and danger.

Early-morning light filled the bathroom. Felicity scrutinised herself in her full-length mirror. Sharp suit and killer heels. Serious hair and professional make-up. Designer briefcase and a steely attitude. Very different from the bedraggled mess of yesterday, when she dug her spare key from the ficus pot plant and stumbled through the front door sweaty and parched. She nodded to her image. Shed land this job today. She ran downstairs to the front hall, and the bare sideboard was an instant reminder of the nox horribilis. No handbag. Her stomach muscles spasmed. The slim veneer of calm evaporated. Scurrying around the house, she found enough change for the tram and bolted out the door. Usually, the journey from her Port Melbourne home to the city only took a pleasant fifteen minutes. Today the tram hummed a funereal tune. Your efforts will be wasted. Your father will be found guilty. And he will die in jail. At the top of Collins Street she jumped out at her stop. The Read Holt Fullbright building loomed ahead. She wondered if the partners of the law firm had decided on such a grand edifice to intimidate the opposition. A few minutes later, she walked from the lift into a vast marble reception on the twenty-seventh floor. A large desk stood in the centre of the room. Immaculately groomed and with a cool air, the receptionist raised her head. Felicity affected a brilliant wouldnt-I-be-great-for-this-firm smile. Hi, Im Felicity Carter. I have an interview today. Hi, Felicity. Theyre waiting for you, the receptionist said in a professional tone that hinted at years of impeccable training and experience. Follow me. They walked through a heavy swing door into the inner sanctum of Read Holt Fullbright and down

a long corridor. Felicity could feel the industry of the place. To Australias well-heeled defendants, it said the best money can buy. To the director of public prosecutions, it sneered chalk up another loss. At the end of the corridor, the receptionist knocked quietly on a door and entered a bright conference room. Looking past her through the floor-to-ceiling windows, Felicity glimpsed the sparkling bay in the distance. Morning, the receptionist said. This is Felicity Carter. Felicity, if you would like to take a seat here? A massive boardroom table filled the room. Three well-dressed men stood. Adrenaline smashed into Felicitys bloodstream like the slash of a whip. Her briefcase slipped from her hand. She blinked hard, begging her eyes to clear. But there was no mistake. There he stood, at the head of the table. The Adulterer. The Cheat. The Bastard.

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